text
stringlengths 213
24.6k
| id
stringlengths 47
47
| dump
stringclasses 1
value | url
stringlengths 14
499
| file_path
stringlengths 138
138
| language
stringclasses 1
value | language_score
float64 0.9
1
| token_count
int64 51
4.1k
| score
float64 1.5
5.06
| int_score
int64 2
5
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Track a dogfighting ring in the city, and Chicago police say there's likely a gang member behind it.
Gang members see the dogs like cars and guns: status symbols used for toys, intimidation and protection, and in the end, discard them at will, police said.
Of all the people arrested for animal crimes between 2000 and 2004, almost 60 percent admitted being gang members, and 70 percent had previous drug-related arrests, said Sgt. Brian Degenhardt, whose research on the nexus in 2006 led to the department's creation of an Animal Crime Unit.
Two years later, the unit is growing again -- to 10 officers from about four -- and will be part of the gang investigations section. Degenhardt hopes moving the unit, which worked in the past under the special functions group, will allow for surveillance against dogfighting groups and eventually the ability to make bigger cases.
Since being restructured Aug. 14, the unit has rescued 19 dogs, including 16 pit bulls, from dogfighting suspects, executed three search warrants and found four illegal guns, Degenhardt said.
Being able to arrest a suspected gang member on dogfighting charges, while not the sexiest or heaviest crime, helps police, said Gang Investigations Section Cmdr. Leo Schmitz.
"They're breaking the law, so this is one more way that we can get at the gangs," Schmitz said.
Gang members gamble on the fights, use the dogs as protection on the "tip," or where drugs are stored, and consider the blood lines of winning dogs a status symbol, Degenhardt said.
Some gangs use the bloody sport to desensitize younger gang members, Degenhardt said.
"It's initiation through the blood," he said. "They use them to deaden their senses to violence."
One of the key differences in the new unit is that officers can work in civilian clothes, conducting surveillance that will allow them to catch dogfighters in the act, Degenhardt said. That could lead to more serious convictions, he said.
Animal rights groups applaud the department's work.
"I've been really impressed with the Chicago Police Department and how they're attacking this," said Ann Chynoweth, senior director of the animal cruelty and fighting campaign for the Humane Society of the United States. "They're willing to fight this not only for the animals, but for the safety of the community."
Degenhardt said the work is a passion of all of the officers in the unit, who care for animals and about making their city safer.
"If I take a gang member off the street two hours, or two days or two years, he's now not available to fire that handgun that can hit an innocent child," Degenhardt said.
|
<urn:uuid:6394beb4-bd60-4000-811f-243822354359>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2008-08-29/news/0808281670_1_gang-members-dogfighting-new-unit
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368703298047/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516112138-00028-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.961684
| 571
| 1.65625
| 2
|
U. S. Customs and Border Protection took comments in Havre Thursday about a draft of a planning document, and will accept more comments via the Internet, mail and even telephone for three more weeks.
The meeting was one of a number of meetings held on the agency’s draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement discussing social and environmental impacts of CBP actions to secure the border and facilitate legal trade and traffic, as per its mission.
After collecting comment last year, the company preparing the statement changed the format. Rather than writing four separate documents, the northern border was divided into four regions — west of the Continental Divide, east of the Continental Divide, the Great Lakes region, and New England — with one document examining the regions and looking at the actions of CBP as one agency and the impacts overall.
The draft found that most of the proposed actions in planning for future CBP activity — ranging from no change to a mix of three other alternatives — had little to no negative impact, or even beneficial impacts. The actions that could have negative impacts could be mitigated, if selected.
Paul Martin of CBP said during Havre’s meeting that the agency does not yet have a preferred alternative.
The alternatives listed in the draft are:
No Action Alternative (or “status quo”) would be to continue with the same facilities, technology, infrastructure and approximate level of personnel currently in use, deployed or currently planned by CBP.
Development and Improvement Alternative would focus on providing new permanent facilities or improvements to those facilities such as Border Patrol stations, POEs, and other facilities to allow CBP agents to operate more efficiently and respond to situations more quickly.
Detection, Inspection, Surveillance, and Communications Technology Expansion Alternative would focus on deploying more effective surveillance and communication technologies in support of CBP activities.
Tactical Security Infrastructure Deployment Alternative would focus on constructing additional barriers, access roads, and related facilities.
Flexible Direction Alternative would allow CBP to follow any of the above directions based on what will be most effective to respond to the changing threat environment along the northern border. It is impossible to predict what measures will be needed at any point in time, and the needed mix is likely to change constantly because the threat environment changes constantly.
For more information about the public meetings, the project, or to obtain a copy of the draft PEIS, people can visit the project’s website at www.NorthernBorderPEIS.com, and a copy of the PEIS may also be requested by calling (866) 760-1421 or by mailing a request to: CBP Northern Border PEIS, P.O. Box 3625, McLean, VA 22102. Most public libraries in communities along the northern border have CD-ROM copies of the PEIS.
Comments can be submitted on the website, via email at firstname.lastname@example.org, by mail to CBP Northern Border PEIS, PO Box 3625, McLean, VA 22102, or by telephone at (866) 760-1421. Deadline for submitting comments is Oct. 31.
|
<urn:uuid:6666af17-70f1-48a9-b495-ef19cc5530a2>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.havredailynews.com/cms/news/story-277105.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368698924319/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516100844-00023-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.939914
| 636
| 1.8125
| 2
|
DISTRICT CHILD ASSEMBLY
District Child Assembly comprising of various talented students from different schools have been formed by Khpal Kor Foundation in November, 2009 with special aim to highlight different issues faced by the children in Swat through the regular session.
The core objectives of the District Child Assembly are;
1) To create self-confidence among the children
2) To build leadership qualities among the children.
3) To highlight and raise their children’s right issues themselves.
4) To address their issues in front of relevant stakeholders.
5) To provide the children an opportunity to share their opinion regarding child rights issues.
Talented student form various school are selected for the District Child Assembly. Then election is held in which speaker, deputy speaker and secretary are elected through democratic election process for 1 year tenure by the members of District Child Assembly.
Members of the assembly are given trainings time to time in order to build their capacity for better advocacy of their issues regarding their rights.
District Child Assembly session are held on monthly basis so far 8 sessions have been conducted. The monthly session are organized as training session in which the members present resolutions for better representing in the grand sessions. The grand session of The District Child Assembly are organized twice in year in which different relevant stakeholders, representatives from NGOs and government line department are invited.
Members of the District Child Assembly present their issues in front of theses stakeholders inform of resolutions.
The resolutions passed by the District Child Assembly are processed from gross root level to up to the president/prim minter of Pakistan.
So far the progress/ achievement of the District Child Assembly is as below;
1) As a result of the district child assembly resolution regarding orphans,
Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal approved an orphanage for 100 orphans with the name of Pakistan Sweet Home.
2) District Child Assembly resolutions regarding corporal punishment, the education department circulated notification regarding bane on corporal punishment in the schools across the district.
3) The issue of disabled children private building has also raised in form of resolution in which the government was demanded to construct permanent building the disabled children at Swat. The government has turned its attention towards the issue and started process on this demand.
4) In the result of these resolutions there will be special facilities for the special persons in all newly constructed buildings of the police and other Department of Malakand Division and Govt. of KPK.
5) From the platform of District child assembly the resolutions regarding child rights have been so for result oriented and appreciated by the stake holders and Govt authorities.
6) The speaker of the District Child Assembly has effectively raised various children’s right issues through national and international media.
|
<urn:uuid:af141376-b54a-46e6-959c-25b41845ac8a>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.khpalkor.org/pages/child_rights_unit/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368708766848/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516125246-00038-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.953402
| 556
| 2.1875
| 2
|
The government has approved a new gas power plant in the north of England, amid plans to secure the future of Britain's cheap energy suppliers.
Industry regular Ofgem has issued guidelines to energy suppliers about the new feed-in tariffs scheme.
The new feed-in tariffs, which pay people for the cheap energy they generate, is expected to be very popular, an expert has said.
The Renewable Energy Centre has hailed the government's CRC cheap energy efficiency scheme as a positive development in the drive to reduce emissions.
The government's cheap energy boiler scrappage scheme has finally closed to new applicants.
The government has pledged around £5 million to help develop the UK's cheap renewable energy sector.
Thousands of homes in Norwich are set to benefit from a new cheap energy scheme in order to reduce bill costs from energy suppliers.
The government could miss targets of stamping out fuel poverty and making cheap energy more accessible, a new report warns.
|
<urn:uuid:c8f8b58d-93c3-4d03-afdb-8c248347685e>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.energyhelpline.com/rspb/fri/domesticenergy/news/2010/4/1
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368697974692/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516095254-00026-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.952894
| 194
| 1.867188
| 2
|
Researchers say habit, not food taste, can lead us to eat more. The finding is important for understanding how to control food intake when dieting. In an experiment, researchers found even stale food somehow tastes good when we eat out of habit rather than mindfulness.
Food consumption linked to environment
To prove the point that habit drives unhealthy eating, researchers gave moviegoers a bucket of either just-popped, fresh popcorn or week-old, stale popcorn.
People who don't normally eat popcorn at the movies consumed less of either. But those who normally ate popcorn at the movies consumed the same amount, regardless of the stale taste.
The study, which comes from University of Southern California researchers shows food habits are a driving force for eating and that environment plays a big role.
Lead author David Neal, who was a psychology professor at USC, but now heads a social and consumer research firm says, "When we've repeatedly eaten a particular food in a particular environment, our brain comes to associate the food with that environment and make us keep eating as long as those environmental cues are present."
Wendy Wood, Provost Professor of Psychology and Business at USC says "nobody likes spongy week old popcorn", but habits can make us care little about how food tastes.
As a control, the researchers gave popcorn to people watching movie clips in a meeting room. In a different environment, it did matter whether the food was stale.
"The results show just how powerful our environment can be in triggering unhealthy behavior," Neal said. "Sometimes willpower and good intentions are not enough, and we need to trick our brains by controlling the environment instead."
One way to eat less is to change hands when eating.
In a third experiment, the researchers tested the impact of disrupting normal eating patterns. They asked people going to view a movie to eat with either their dominant or non-dominant hand, once again using fresh or stale popcorn.
Using the non-dominant hand made people more aware and led to less eating.
Switching hands when eating, practicing yoga that teaches mindfulness and paying attention to food environment that can lead to overeating can help break unhealthy food habits. Since it's hard for dieters to change their food environment, the researchers of the study suggest switching hands when you find yourself in a place that provokes eating out of habit. The study shows people often eat even when food tastes bad and is an important note for dieters.
Social Psychology Bulletin
"The Pull of the Past: When Do Habits Persist Despite Conflict With Motives?"
David T. Neal et al.
August 22, 2011, doi: 10.1177/0146167211419863
|
<urn:uuid:91de336d-746d-4afb-ad50-0b32d2add873>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.emaxhealth.com/1020/study-habit-provokes-mindless-eating-even-when-food-stale
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368710006682/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516131326-00071-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.946431
| 551
| 3.28125
| 3
|
Shap, are you telling me the carriers were away from Pearl because we knew Pearl was going to be attacked?!
Every book I've read on the subject states it was sheer luck they were out at the time of the attack.
Besides, we had no idea as to the value of aircraft carriers until they were blooded in the war. They were thought of more as defense support for the real fighting ships, the battleships, not the centerpiece of an offensive strike force.
There is a fundamental difference between the end of WWII and what's going on now: In WWII, the countries involved formally surrendered to us. Such has not been the case in either Iraq or Afghanistan, and Iraq people keep dying in increasing numbers.
Just because our founding fathers were noble, and I admire that about them tremendously, doesn't mean they were confident of beating the British. As a matter of fact, wasn't our change in fighting style more a product of necessity and desperation than of superior strategic thinking?
As for me, I don't know if I have what it would have taken to lead then, but I certainly would have joined.
PS. Selma, as usual, is right on the money.
<small>[ 06-03-2005, 01:58 PM: Message edited by: OperaTenor ]</small>
|
<urn:uuid:2956dc0d-1e58-4f81-a54d-fd3ab413d4c6>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.beethoven.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?p=67556
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706499548/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516121459-00011-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.99147
| 270
| 1.539063
| 2
|
By Richard Reeves
LOS ANGELES—The headline of the Los Angeles Times editorial page on the day after the state’s primary on June 5 was: "What Tuesday Told Us: The top-two primary was held and the world kept turning."
As it has many times over more than a century, the Golden State again tried to reform its politics. This time the state is trying to break the partisan deadlock that has made governing almost impossible. No one is sure how the new reforms are working or will work.
This is what the state did over two years:
—Voters in a 2010 referendum approved a proposition creating a randomly chosen citizens redistricting commission that drew new lines for both legislative and congressional districts.
—At the same time, 2010, voters replaced the state’s two-party primary system with an open "top-two" primary, in which all candidates were lumped together regardless of party, and mandated that the top-two finishers in June would face each other in the November general election. If two Democrats finished first and second, they would run again in the general election. Same if two Republicans topped the ballot in June.
Dan Schnur, of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics at the University of Southern California, describes the state’s problems this way:
"Over the years, the two major parties have retreated from the middle of the political playing field toward their respective ideological end zones. A decade of gerrymandering created such safe districts for members of both parties that legislators knew they would never lose to a candidate from the other party and could, in most cases, serve until they were forced out by term limits or infirmity."
So far, more than a dozen races still have not been settled. Also, even though turnout was at a historic low of 25 percent, almost a million ballots (mostly mail ballots) are not yet counted.
The results were pretty wild. Sen. Dianne Feinstein got 1.8 million votes—49 percent of the vote against 24 challengers. A Republican named Elizabeth Emken finished second with 454,937 votes. Those top two will run against each other in November. On the other hand, some races were decided by as few as 230 votes between the No. 2 and No. 3 candidates.
The most exciting race in November will be between two liberal Democrats, Rep. Howard Berman and Rep. Brad Sherman, who were forced into the same district by the citizens commission. Longtime friends, Berman and Sherman have almost identical voting records in Congress. Berman is running for his 16th term, Sherman for his ninth.
The conventional wisdom here is that primaries formerly drove candidates to the extreme in one-party primaries. With the new reforms, hopefully primary candidates will campaign in the middle of the political spectrum because they will want both liberal and conservative votes.
Will it work? Too soon to tell. It will take a few more elections to bring more moderates into the system—if it accomplishes that. One result of this primary was that businesses donated more money to Democrats in safe Democratic districts, and labor did the same for Republicans in safe Republican districts.
The Times answered its own question this way:
"Won’t top two and independent redistricting deprive California of some of its most senior elected officials by making them run in competitive races that they might lose? Perhaps. In the Assembly and the Senate, though, voters won back for themselves the option of sticking with a little seniority over new blood by convincingly approving Proposition 28. The term-limits tweak will allow a state lawmaker to ask voters to keep him or her in place, in the same house, for up to 12 years, instead of shuttling back and forth for up to 15 years."
Again, it’s worth a try in the very tarnished Golden State.
© 2012 UNIVERSAL UCLICK
|
<urn:uuid:ebf6c67a-a8cf-460f-ade9-20e76223cfb8>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.truthdig.com/report/print/california_tries_a_new_way_20120615/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706153698/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516120913-00016-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.97257
| 798
| 1.5625
| 2
|
WARREN - Cancer survivors and their loved ones came together in a showing of support at the 23rd annual Cancer Survivorship Day, which included a butterfly release and sharing of stories by survivors.
Trumbull Memorial Hospital, in collaboration with the American Cancer Society and the Trumbull Memorial Health Foundation, sponsors the annual event, which provides an opportunity for cancer survivors, family members and friends to celebrate success in the fight against cancer.
Nearly 100 cancer survivors, each wearing a button that indicated the number of years they have been survivors, attended.
The event included the Lilly art display ''Oncology On Canvas;'' the presentation "What Survivorship Means," by local physician Dr. Lori Hemrock, an oncologist at the Hope Center for Cancer Care in Howland; and a variety of exhibitors.
The traditional butterfly release behind the school concluded the program.
Linda Paugh of Cortland, a one-year breast cancer survivor, said when she first learned she had cancer, she knew she didn't want to die and could see the fear that so many face in their lives when they are told those words.
"You know what others who have faced what you faced are thinking and what they may be feeling. I want everyone to know you can do this,'' she said.
Paugh said such events inspire her when she hears the stories shared by other survivors.
Paugh said she endured many radiation treatments after a tumor was detected and has been cancer-free for nearly a year. She said she has kept a journal of what she experienced sharing her feelings and faith in God.
"I know I can make a difference by sharing my story with others. My faith has made me whole as I faced the journey I had to go through. I hope by sharing my story, I am able to help someone else who is facing what I had to face," she said.
Irene Was of Warren, a 15-year cancer survivor, said she has attended many of the survivorship days and enjoyed hearing from Paugh and would like to be a speaker at a future event
"I was 75 years old when I was told I had cancer. It is so inspiring to hear from others who share their own stories. When they told me I had cancer, I didn't know how to react," she said.
After an operation, Was was able to attend art classes at Kent State, working on sculptures and other projects.
Luana Andamasaris, a nurse at the radiation oncology department at Trumbull Memorial, said Hemrock shared how survivors should continue to reach out to one another, not hesitate to discuss their survival experiences and remember to enjoy life.
She said each speaker provided words of encouragement, hope and support.
|
<urn:uuid:78001e78-375a-4c26-b1fb-5adaf2f76876>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.tribunechronicle.com/page/content.detail/id/576459/Cancer-survivors-unite.html?nav=5005
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368710006682/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516131326-00030-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.986763
| 563
| 1.578125
| 2
|
Why Does India Not Win At The Olympics?
With India's population, it surprises many that India is not a force at the Olympics. R.J.Elliott wonders the same in a comment in Aaman's recent article:
I've always found it a bit baffling that India, with over one billion citizens, doesn't seem to have much success in either the Winter OR the Summer Olympics...and that they don't seem to have many (any?) nationals playing at the professional level in the US in any of the four major American sports. Surely there is a 7-foot 6-inch Indian fellow out there who would like to make millions playing in the NBA. Or a 35-pound Indian who would make a good offensive lineman in the NFL. But where are they?
Most Commonwealth nations have performed poorly at the Winter Olympics. Apart from Canada who had won 31 golds and was at number 10 in the all time Winter Olympic medal table before the games started, Commonwealth nations have had little to show. Poor performances at the Winter Olympics is not an India specific or South Asia specific phenomena.
Great Britain have won 8 golds in all, and among them are medals from an era when not many nations competed in the Olympics. Australia hadn't won a medal before 1994. Australia loves its sport passionately and evidence of that is its improvement in the Winter Olympics. 40 athletes are competing for Australia at the Torino games, almost double the size in recent times. However, I might add that the latest gold medal winner for Australia, Dale Begg-Smith, is Canadian born.
What about the other nations? New Zealand is at number 36 with a solo silver in a tally of 38 nations which had won medals before the current Olympics started. Countries like Norway, Austria, Finland and Sweden have extreme cold conditions unlike a Great Britain or Australia which explains the vast difference in medal counts in winter sports.
The fact that India has sent out 4 participants for the Torino Games is a big enough achievement considering the bare facts. India does have the Himalayas, but how many skiing resorts exist?
The wonder cannot be put to rest with the Winter Olympics, however. With a population of 1.1 billion, India still has not managed to win a single individual gold at the Summer Olympics.The reason which is usually given? India is a one sport nation.
Is India really a one sport(cricket) nation?
Cricket is played on every street in India. Go to the cities,villages, sea beaches, deserts or mountains - everywhere you will find children playing cricket. Why then can India not produce cricketers who are better than cricketers of the rest of the world combined, if all its sporting resources are going to cricket?
To begin with, there is hardly any infrastructure, and talent is not tapped. If it is tapped, it is not groomed well enough. This has changed recently with cricketers coming from outside the major cities like Sehwag, R.P.Singh and Suresh Raina. The fact remains though, that for every Sehwag there are countless kids playing with rubber balls whose talent is not tapped and do not know what playing with a proper cricket ball is.
At the first class level in India, there is no support system for the players. A former India player told me once when I went to meet him that his biggest mistake was that he did not finish education before going on to pursue cricket. Obviously, if he had the qualifications, he would have retired much earlier than he did, trying to earn a proper living.
Hardly 5-6 players can command a place in the national team for a span of 10 years. There is money in the game yes, but is there really money then to support the careers of at least the state level cricketers? The way the money is currently distributed, the answer is no.
The plight of other sports in India
Rajyawardhan Rathore, silver medalist at Athens, 2004, in the Men's double trap event did it with an attitude few people have or are expected to have. He did not receive much support. Despite that he did not criticize the authorities and made the best of what he got, staying undeterred. When people see a Sania Mirza in India sport today, they do not realize the expenses players have to deal with when they are not 'stars'.
To gain points a player has to travel far and wide and for it the player requires money. Add to that the money required to be paid to the best coaches from the world for proper grooming. Sponsors are necessary. The tragedy is, sponsors only come in once the player has become a star or is on the verge of becoming a star. Even after some one has achieved success, a sponsor can back out as was the case with Konery Humpy, India's finest young chess talent. (though chess is not an Olympic sport, this shows the difficulties players face)
Why does money and infrastructure need to come up in a country where so many people are poor?
Sport brings in joy which is priceless. The joy the Brazilian kid gets playing football or the Indian counterpart gets hitting a six is unmatched. In that moment he forgets all hardships. Another argument brought up was regarding money invested in sports. Gaurav commented in the same article:
I believe spending money to compete at top athletic events that require insane amount of money is perverted for a country coming to terms with over 300 million people living below poverty.
If India had that attitude, India would not even have had the base for winning the World Cup in 1983. That victory propelled a cricket craziness in India and money coming in through privatization of broadcasts in the mid 90s, the Wills World Cup happening in 1996. Hosting a big sporting event means the growth of infrastructure, tie ups with companies and jobs to many people. Sport is an industry in itself, even if you leave aside that it also brings joy to many people in the process.
Why Does India Not Win At The Olympics?
- » Published on February 17, 2006
- » Type: Opinion
- » Filed under:
|
<urn:uuid:72c45bc3-c9e3-4234-b484-c4541518a6e5>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://desicritics.org/2006/02/17/222433.php
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368698207393/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516095647-00061-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.9758
| 1,267
| 2.03125
| 2
|
I ran down to Sioux Falls from Fargo Saturday for the South Dakota Corn Growers Association convention.
Some of interesting things I heard at the conference:
Land values boom. I heard about land selling for nearly $4,000 per acre in central South Dakota and $5,000 per acre near northwest Iowa. The land price-to-yield ratio is apparently higher in South Dakota that many other places in the Cornbelt.
Cutting back. But not everybody is hungry for more land. One farmer told me confidentially that he had cut back from 6,000 to 3,000 acres a year ago. He let most of his low, wet land go. At the same time, he built more contract wean-to-finish hog barns. The contract gives him a margin of profit and the hog manure dramatically cuts his corn input costs. The banker likes it if you can generate the same profit on fewer assets, he said.
Soil health bump. Bryan Jorgenson, Ideal, S.D., said he’s amazed at the progress he’s made since incorporating cover crops in his in his diversified no-till system. He says they’re raising 200+ bushels per acre corn on 60 pounds of nitrogen. Many other farmers who are involved in the “beyond no-till movement” report similar gains. SDCGA is funding research related to cover crops and soil health.
Why were doing this. Barry Dunn, the new dean of the SDSU Department of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, offered some talking points for farmers who want to be better advocates for agriculture. Lot’s of non-farmers remember the “good old days of farming” fondly, he said. But it wasn’t a great time for everybody in the world, he said. As late as 1965, 1/3 people in the world were starving or near starvation. Today, the figure is about 1/7th.
|
<urn:uuid:06a692d3-766c-49e5-973e-40acfd5f999c>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://farmprogress.com/blogs-corn-talk-2002
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368705953421/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516120553-00068-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.964853
| 410
| 1.5625
| 2
|
BOSTON — The prosecutor who brought charges against six students accused of bullying Phoebe Prince, a 15-year-old South Hadley High School freshman who committed suicide, said Wednesday that the state's new anti-bullying law should be toughened.
Former Northwestern District Attorney Elizabeth Scheibel testified before a special commission set up to review the law and decide whether changes or additional laws are needed.
The law was passed in May after several high-profile bullying cases, including the January 2010 death of Prince. It required all school districts in the state to develop bullying prevention laws and sought to crack down on cyberbullying — harassment that occurs online.
Scheibel, who did not seek re-election and left office in January, brought charges against six students in connection with Phoebe's death. All six have pleaded not guilty.
Phoebe was an Irish immigrant who prosecutors say was targeted after she briefly dated a popular boy.
In her testimony before the panel chaired by Attorney General Martha Coakley, Scheibel called for beefing up the law to ensure that schools promptly report to law enforcement any substantiated complaints of bullying.
"All too often, school administrators delay or neglect to inform law enforcement about acts that occur on school property," Scheibel said.
Scheibel said the law as written requires a school administrator to pass on to the district attorney substantiated reports of bullying — but only if the administrator believes the action might be serious enough to warrant criminal prosecution.
Scheibel said the law should be changed to require schools to pass on all substantiated reports of bullying to law enforcement, leaving it solely to prosecutors to determine what, if any, further action is necessary.
Scheibel also said the law should be changed to add penalties against school employees or administrators who are aware of bullying complaints but fail to report them.
Following her testimony, Scheibel told reporters the discussion about school bullying that grew out of Phoebe's death and her office's prosecution of the case has been a positive aspect of the tragedy.
"I know, in fact, in talking with Phoebe's family, that if there is some good to come out of it, there is not only a public debate at the local level and national level, but certainly the international (level) as well," Scheibel said.
"We need to begin to change the culture. We need to have people understand, children understand, accountability and responsibility," she said.
While the anti-bullying statute was praised by many speakers at Wednesday's hearing, Scheibel was not the only one who felt it could be made more effective.
Harvey Wolkoff, chairman of the civil rights committee of the Anti-Defamation League of New England, said the law was one of the most comprehensive in the nation, but he was concerned that not every school district was fully complying.
"Unless every Massachusetts school district complies, many children will remain unprotected from bullying and cyberbullying, and we will find ourselves in the same situation that prompted the need for the legislation in the first place," said Wolkoff.
He said the ADL was recommending that state education officials maintain a public list of compliance — or noncompliance — by school districts and the state also be required to make annual reports to the Legislature on levels of school bullying.
State Auditor Suzanne Bump noted that the law lacks a provision requiring that all bullying incidents serious enough to be reported to parents also be reported to the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Coakley said her commission, which was created by the law, would hold a second hearing in western Massachusetts next week and make recommendations by June 30 on any necessary revisions.
Coakley said 14 percent of Massachusetts high school students in a 2009 survey reported being the direct victims of bullying, and 60 percent of students reported at least one incident of being cyberbullied. But she also noted that there was no universal agreement on when bullying rises to the level of a crime.
"We don't have the term bullying in our criminal code," Coakley said.
|
<urn:uuid:74b2e140-a630-4c81-895b-2733f0c53d1a>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2011/02/ex-northwestern_da_elizabeth_scheibel_massachusetts_bullying_law.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368707435344/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516123035-00015-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.977131
| 831
| 1.617188
| 2
|
By Mark Boas
H.264 is a video compression format, which although fairly recently open-sourced – H.264 is ‘patent encumbered’ in other words royalties for its use could be claimed at any time. Currently latest versions of Chrome, Internet Explorer and Safari all
support H.264 but Firefox and Opera do not but support an alternative format known as WebM (as does Chrome). However around 13 months ago Google stated their intention to drop H.264 support from Chrome ‘in the coming months’.
A Flash fallback is used when we detect whether HTML5 or a particular format is supported and fall back to a Flash solution if not. At this point it’s worth mentioning that Mobile Safari does not support Flash. NBD in this case means no big deal (for Chrome). The special Flash deal probably alludes to Chrome and Adobe’s deal to bundle Flash with Chrome and Adobe’s intention to drop support for Flash on Linux for browsers other than Chrome. Note that Adobe plan to not support ‘new mobile device configurations’ going forward.
B2G refers to Boot-2-Gecko a new initiative by Mozilla to create a web-based open source mobile operating system.
Note. Whereas there is more room to maneuver with desktop browsers, with mobile devices, speed and battery life are of prime concern. Since currently most, if not all mobile devices that play video, support H.264 decoding directly via hardware, it would be difficult to enter the market with a mobile OS that didn’t support H.264.
I encourage you to expand their tweets to see who else has chimed in. You can see the full discussion here.
WebM vs H.264 Showdown
The second discussion involves David Storey (former Opera Web Evangelist now working for Motorola which has recently been acquired by Google) and Faruk Ateş (‘Entreprenerd’ and former web-standards specialist for Apple). Excerpts follow.
This is the interesting part for me. H.264 and VP8 (the video part of WebM) are both based on Inverse Discrete Cosine Transform for decoding so in theory at least this could happen.
It’s worth pointing out that services exist that will do this for you.
Upload once and have multiple formats available automatically. Vid.ly comes to mind but I’m sure there are others. Although I do think it would be nice to have a package that did something similar which you could install on a server of your choice.
Last week as part of the Mozilla News Lab, I took part in webinars with Shazna Nessa – Director of Interactive at the Associated Press in New York, Mohamed Nanabhay – an internet entrepreneur and Head of Online at Al Jazeera English and Oliver Reichenstein – CEO of iA (Information Architects, Inc.).
I have a few ideas on how we can create tools to help journalists. I mean journalists in the broadest sense – casual bloggers as well as hacks working for large news organizations. In previous weeks I have been in deep absorption of all the fantastic and varied information coming my way. Last week things started to fall into place. A seed of an idea that I’ve had at the back of my mind for some time pushed its way to the front and started to evolve.
Something that cropped up time and again was that if you are going to create tools for journalists, you should try and make them as easy to use as possible. The idea I hope to run with is a simple tool to allow users to assemble audio or video programs from different sources by using a paradigm that most people are already familiar with. I hope to build on my work something I’ve called hypertranscripts which strongly couple text and the spoken word in a way that is easily navigable and shareable.
Editing, compiling and assembling audio or video usually requires fairly complex tools, this is compounded by the fact that it’s very difficult to ascertain the content of the media without actually playing through it.
I propose that we step back and consider other ways of representing this media content. In the case of journalistic pieces, this content usually includes the spoken word which we can represent using text by transcribing it. My idea is to use the text to represent the content and allow that text to be copied, pasted, dragged and dropped from document to document with associated media intact. The documents will take the form of hypertranscripts and this assemblage will all work within the context of my proposed application, going under the working title of the Hyperaudio Pad. (Suggestions welcome!) Note that the pasting of any content into a standard editor will result in hypertranscripted content that could exist largely independently of the application itself.
Some examples of hypertranscripts can be found in a couple of demos I worked on earlier this year:
As the interface is largely text based I’m taking a great deal of inspiration from the elegance and simplicity of Oliver’s iAWriter. Here are a couple of rough sketches :
Last week I’m happy to say that I found myself collaborating with other members of the News Lab, namely Julien Dorra and Samuel Huron, both of whom are working on related projects. These guys have some excellent ideas that relate to meta-data and mixed media that tie in with my own and I look forward to working with them in the future. Exciting stuff!
As part of the Knight Mozilla News Challenge I’m taking part in, I attended two webinars. The first was given by Aza Raskin concerned prototyping and communication, the second the story of Storify and the Hacks/Hackers community by founder and journalist Burt Herman.
I found both these webinars extremely valuable, I had actually seen Aza’s talk in November in Barcelona when he spoke at the Drumbeat Festival, it was inspiring then as it is now. The main thrust being that prototypes are important as a way to get your idea out there, put it in front of people and iterate upon it! The Storify story gave a different perspective and I found myself agreeing with thoughts on following your passion, building community, teams and again getting your product out there!
However the point in Burt’s talk that really stood out for me, was his stressing of keeping things simple. The Minimum Viable Product approach is something which resonates strongly with me, I have to say I’m a big fan, but what he said next really struck home. Specifically in response to a question on how Burt and his team went from early prototypes to the current incarnation of Storify, he re-emphasised the iterative approach of and gathering feedback from early minimal releases … and then BAM – out it came, mentioned almost as an aside :
“We built this thing that made it easy to embed a tweet in a blogpost”
“so you could just type in the ID of a tweet and it would give you a nice formatted HTML thing”
So beautifully simple, yet hugely powerful. And it was built by co-founder Xavier Damman in a day! Unsurprisingly TechCrunch picked it up almost immediately and many people started using it soon after. Once they realised what they had, they built upon it and worked it in to their main product. This for me was such a great example of what the ‘just build it’ mentality can achieve. Prior to that, they had been experimenting with slightly more complex systems, but they tried a few variations on a theme and with the help of good feedback they hit upon a fantastic solution.
I have a few ideas for applications for the ‘Unlocking Video’ challenge, I’m not entirely sure of any of them, but one thing’s for certain I’m going to get the very core of an idea out there early and then iterate wildly in response to as much feedback as I can gather, and hope as Burt and his team did, to strike gold.
Related resources :
Storify storified – SXSW Winners [webmission.be]
Tweet embedding tool : http://media.twitter.com/blackbird-pie
Following the fun we had making the Hyperdisken demo, I was happy to be asked by Mozilla, in collaboration with Radiolab and SoundCloud to help create another demo to show off the possibilities of hyper audio. This time we had an excellent Radiolab program as audio material and we wanted to get a little more ‘involved’. What was required was an application that would consist of many of the features of the Hyperdisken demo but also integrate deeply with SoundCloud API, and on top of this something extra, something to catch the eye.
I was fortunate again to work with the ideas-forge known as Henrik Moltke, who collaborated early on with Paul Rouget to produce something he dubbed the ‘Word River’ – a CSS3 manipulated flowing river of words that dynamically picked up content from an HTML transcript. We were also keen to make a pure HTML5 based solution and Paul helped figure out the hooks into the SoundCloud API that would allow us to achieve that. We were also very lucky to be given a great design by the multi-talented Lee Martin, SoundCloud’s experimenter extraordinaire.
So with proof of concept and some visual bling firmly in hand I was tasked with making this baby fly. Luckily I had help. SoundCloud engineers were at hand to answer any questions and crucially we had great support and code contributions from the popcorn.js group. I also managed to talk jPlayer author and all round JS media guru and of course, colleague Mark Panaghiston into giving me a hand. So despite the tight deadlines we were pretty much set.
Henrik has already blogged about the ideas and functionality that make up the demo. I want to write a little about the technology used.
Although I found out in retrospect, not strictly essential, we once again used jPlayer as our audio base, we’re familiar with it and we can move fast using it. It also meant that we could take much of the functionality developed in previous demos and plug it right in. Again, the excellent Popcorn.js was the engine that drove all the time based display of text and images and dealt with the parsing of data. Steven Weerdenberg, active Popcornista from Seneca College, very kindly wrote a plugin that grabbed, parsed and presented comments (amongst other things) from the track we used hosted on SoundCloud. This is where the Popcorn framework comes into its own as a plugin oriented architecture, something we took advantage of when we converted both the transcript and the word river functionality into plug-ins.
So where did the data come from? Well again the transcript HTML doubled as the source for richer interaction when used by the word river plugin. I like this approach I have to say. It means you don’t have to be a programmer to come in and immediately understand the content and change it accordingly. I also like the fact that the transcript is a separate HTML file, it pleases the separatist in me and means that it works as a standalone resource. We also used the standard speaker notations as a type of meta-data, the word river plugin hiding these parts for the purpose of display but using them to colour code each speaker’s text.
This part of the transcript:
is used to create this ‘word river’:
and this interactive transcript :
Data-wise, everything else came via the SoundCloud API, this included their trademark wave-form, both ogg and mp3 audio sources and all of the comments. We also hijacked the comments to make a crude content management system. The idea being that any comments posted by the Radiolab account with references to images in them, were picked up and displayed as images in the main content area, and did not show up as comments on the timeline. If two images were present it meant they were square, one and it was ‘widescreen’ a blank image was used to remove images when they were no longer needed.
The last pieces of the puzzle and one we’ve still some polish to apply to, (if polishing puzzles makes any sense to you) was getting it all working on the majority of tablets and mobile devices. Since this demo didn’t use Flash this was actually a possibility and we got our web designer Silvia Benvenuti to come out of maternity leave and sort this out for us at the 9th hour, leaving me quite literally holding the baby.
This was a tough gig but all in all I’m happy with what we achieved, everyone seemed to really enjoy taking part in the process, and I certainly enjoyed bringing it all together. Hopefully it will inspire both program makers, designers and developers to come together and explore the limits of what hyper-audio can do. As Inspiral Carpets would say, moo!
Source code for this project and other demos can be found on github
Follow me on Twitter if you want to hear more about this sort of thing.
Recently I had the privilege of working on a very interesting project with a few folk from Mozilla – it’s the type of project I love to work on, as it involves web audio and its deep integration into the general web experience.
Web audio is no longer consigned to being the passive play and pause experience of yesteryear, it has the potential to be much more, it can be a driver of much richer interactions, something Henrik Moltke explores with something he dubs Hyper Audio. The remit of the project was to take various media elements of a radio interview broadcast by Danish Radio station DR; audio, subtitles, transcripts, footnotes etc and link these in an intuitive and useful manner.
To say this project was right up my street would be an understatement – this project was in my flat, raiding my fridge and drinking my beerz. I was already fascinated by the concept. I’d been playing about, creating audio related demos for a couple of years and in November last year I decided to attend the Mozilla Drumbeat festival and created a demo for the event. The demo was accepted to be exhibited at the science fair on the opening evening and garnered some interesting feedback both on and offline, what it effectively demonstrated was the synchronization and bi-directional control of text and audio.
When Henrik asked me to work on this project, I naturally jumped at the opportunity. Due to time differences, pressing deadlines and the luxury of having a nice quiet office, I stayed up late most nights for a week, happily hacking away and helped out and supported by various Mozillians and the popcorn.js community.
So that’s the back-story, here’s the demo.
Some things to try :
- Switch the audio from English to Danish – it should continue from the same point in Danish, subtitles and the transcript should also change appropriately.
- Try clicking on words in the transcript – the audio should start playing from the corresponding point.
- Highlight a passage of transcript text – this should add a tweetable excerpt to the ‘share’ box. The URL included should just play that part of the audio.
- Clicking the music note icons in the ‘media’ box should take you to the point of the audio where that resource was mentioned.
How did we achieve this? We used popcorn.js to display subtitles, footnotes and other time-related resources. In fact a lot of this was already in place when I picked up the project. I then integrated jPlayer for the audio playback and deeper interaction. Popcorn allows us to associate timings with actions and have these actions triggered by media when they hit said timings. So pretty much perfect for our needs. jPlayer provided a solid abstraction above the native audio API, it allowed me to easily synchronize and switch audio tracks and jump to specific points or sections in the audio, with very few lines of code. Importantly it also protected us from any cross-browser issues and allowed our designers to effortlessly create a custom skin for the player.
So this was the control, but what about the media? Well this part was a massive team effort. Henrik managed to provide a very accurately timed transcript. We had hoped to use the subtitles in SRT format but for convenience we parsed them or rather Scott Downe parsed them into JSON format.
One of the bigger issues we encountered was that we only had the transcript in English and the timings for the Danish transcript were naturally different. Luckily we had accurately timed Danish subtitles and legendary Bobby Richter on hand to convert the subtitles to individual words complete with their timings, which he did by cunningly interpolating the timing of words (based on word length) and based on their in-subtitle position. All knocked out in about 10 minutes and in 20 lines of code. It worked surprisingly well, of course you need to be able to understand Danish to truly tell. We could have probably parsed the subtitles into the transcript on the fly but due to time limitations we made them static.
Perhaps an aside not directly related to audio, I managed to hack together some code that allowed highlighted transcript text to be placed in the ‘share’ box, and grab the timings of the first and last words, from there it was pretty much straightforward to make this excerpt tweetable.
This whole endeavor was very much a group effort, a huge thanks to the popcorn.js team, who made joining their IRC feel like walking into a pub full of friends.
Special credit and thanks then should go to Scott Downe, Bobby Richter, Barry Threw, David Humphrey, Brett Gaylor, Ben Moskowitz, Christian Valentiner, Silvia Benvenuti and of course Henrik ‘Tank’ Moltke whose baby all this was. It was great being part of such a talented team. Awesomesauce indeed.
- The Hyperaudio Pad – Next Steps and Media Literacy
- Breaking Out – The Making Of
- Breaking Out – Web Audio and Perceptive Media
- Playing web audio offline on mobile Safari. Mission impossible?
- Flash vs HTML5 Video and the Codec thing
- Altrepreneurial vs Entrepreneurial and Why I am going to Work with Al Jazeera
- HTML5 Audio APIs – How Low can we Go?
- Hyperaudio at the Mozilla Festival
- The Hyperaudio Pad – a Software Product Proposal
- Introducing the Hyperaudio Pad (working title)
- Accessibility, Community and Simplicity
- Build First, Ask Questions Later
- Further Experimentation with Hyper Audio
- Hyper Audio – A New Way to Interact
- P2P Web Apps – Brace yourselves, everything is about to change
Add new tag
|
<urn:uuid:621d999a-a694-49ed-923e-621ac8017865>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://happyworm.com/blog/tag/media/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368700264179/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516103104-00063-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.954202
| 3,932
| 1.804688
| 2
|
In case you don’t know, Alan Aragon is a popular expert on nutrition in general, and sports nutrition, in particular. I’ve seen several of Alan’s articles over the years on various internet sites (including one I mentioned in a recent post on How Many Meals A Day Should You Eat) and have always been impressed with his evidence-based approach. Recently I became aware that he publishes a monthly e-zine called, not surprisingly, Alan Aragon’s Research Review (AARR). I subsequently received a copy of the latest issue of AARR, for reasons which I will describe shortly. After reading through the publication, I thought I would share my views on it.
According to Alan’s website, AARR is “is an unbiased monthly critical analysis and application of the latest research pertaining to nutrition, exercise, and supplementation. This journal is designed to help the reader develop a solid understanding of important topics in fitness that are widely misunderstood. Overall, the goal is to provide a unique science & practice-based, multi-topic, bias-free, commercial-free, in-depth, ongoing resource of information.” Pretty lofty goals. Question is, does it deliver as promised?
Each issue of AARR apparently follows a similar format. It begins with an “Editors Cut.” Here Alan dissects a recently published peer-reviewed article. It is an in depth critical analysis where the respective article’s strengths and weaknesses are discussed at length (spanning several pages). The segment concludes with Alan providing his opinion of the article’s validity as well as commenting on any relevant practical applications. Alan is frank in his analysis; he says what he feels.
Of note, the subject of “Editors Cut” in the issue I received was actually an article of mine, recently published in the Strength and Conditioning Journal. He was nice enough to send along a copy so I could see his commentary on my article. He invited me to submit a rebuttal to his criticisms, if I so desired. I did. The gesture was appreciated.
Next up are several shorter reviews of published articles (usually one page in length). These reviews are segmented into three categories: Nutrition and Exercise, Supplementation, and a “Less Recent Gem” which, as the name implies, looks at an article published in the distant past. Although Alan does not go into the detail that he does in the “Editors Cut” section, the reviews are nevertheless quite detailed. He delves into the strengths and weaknesses of each study and makes practical applications where relevant.
The last article in AARR is called “In the Lay Press.” This segment evaluates a non-refereed consumer-oriented article with the same scrutiny afforded peer-reviewed publications. This is especially apt given the pomp and hype surrounding so many articles appearing on the web and in the muscle rags. Given the lack of peer-review in these articles, there is a lot more for Alan to pick apart…and he does so without pulling any punches.
What is my overall impression of AARR? Plain and simple, it’s one of the most definitive resources on nutrition that I’ve seen. Alan is extremely knowledgeable about the subject and obviously keeps up with current research (which sadly is rare, even amongst many nutritional professors). What’s more, Alan understands how to critically evaluate research studies with respect to internal and external validity, providing appropriate recommendations on their relevance. Just as importantly, he provides information in a completely unbiased manner without allegiances to any food or supplement industry companies (as is the case with many so-called “experts in the field). The content is good, the writing is good, and the recommendations are solid. It’s a winning combination.
As for my article, his review was very balanced and fair. He actually pointed out several things that, in retrospect, I should have clarified to a greater extent. It would have strengthened the article. I could have quibbled over a few of his criticisms, but these would have debatable points. Most importantly, I learned from the experience, which is what science is all about.
In conclusion, I would highly recommend AARR for anyone who wants the straight facts about nutrition, particularly as it relates to those involved in exercise programs. You can view a sample copy here and see for yourself if it is worth the investment.
DISCLAIMER: I am not affiliated with AARR and, as is my policy, receive no compensation of any kind from its sale or proceeds.
|
<urn:uuid:47c4cef5-928d-4db7-a768-f58201aafe69>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://workout911.com/?p=3068
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368698924319/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516100844-00012-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.969044
| 948
| 1.539063
| 2
|
In his first career, Ronald Reagan was a mediocre film actor. Never able to crack Hollywood's "A-list," Reagan was relegated through the 1930s, '40s and '50s to roles in a string of mostly forgettable "B-movies," including one—Bedtime for Bonzo (1951)—that cast him ingloriously opposite a chimpanzee costar. When Reagan later became a prominent politician, his relatively undistinguished Hollywood background led many of his opponents and detractors to dismiss him as a political lightweight. They were dead wrong.
For in his second career, Ronald Reagan became one of the most important and influential political leaders in modern American history. Over the course of the twentieth century, only Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency (1933-45) equaled Reagan's in social, ideological, and political impact. Even though Reagan's presidency ended twenty years ago, it's no exaggeration to say that the Reagan Era continues on to this very day. While some Americans will celebrate Reagan's influence on national life while others lament it, it's fair to say that we're all still living in Ronald Reagan's America.
Reagan's huge impact on American history was, in part, a matter of good timing. Like Franklin Roosevelt in 1932, Ronald Reagan won the presidency in 1980 at a moment when much of the American populace felt a deep discontent over the state of America's economy, society, and politics.
The 1970s were a trying time in the United States. The nation's economy, which had enjoyed its greatest and longest period of sustained prosperity from the 1940s through the 1960s, stalled out after 1972. Real wages stopped climbing, corporate profits and stock values tanked, and unemployment and inflation both soared. For the rest of the decade, ordinary Americans who had come to expect constant improvements to their standard of living found themselves instead facing rising unemployment, falling wages, and higher prices. At the same time, they had to endure the painful conclusion of the Vietnam War, which finally ended in 1975 with the ignominious defeat of the United States and its South Vietnamese allies. Fifteen years of conflict and more than 57,000 American lives had seemingly been sacrificed for nothing. Meanwhile, deep cultural conflicts unleashed by the countercultural social revolutions of the 1960s continued to roil the land, and bitter racial acrimony (fueled by government policies on school desegregation and affirmative action) spread beyond the South to engulf much of the country. The cumulative effect of overlapping economic, social, and military setbacks was a dark nationwide sense of malaise, a pessimistic feeling that perhaps America's brightest days lay in the past rather than in the future.
By the end of the 1970s, profound discontentment with American life had created the opportunity for a transformative moment in American history. The bedrock principles that had structured American politics since the establishment of Roosevelt's New Deal Order in the 1930s seemed to have failed, and many Americans were ready to try something radically different. Thus the timely ascent of Ronald Reagan, who preached a hopeful doctrine of conservative populism, fundamentally realigned American politics. The "Reagan Revolution" that followed ushered in a period of conservative domination of American politics and society that would last for a generation.
Still, Reagan's successes cannot be explained away as nothing more than the product of good timing. Potentially transformative moments in history don't automatically lead to profound change. Presidents Richard Nixon (1969-74) and Jimmy Carter (1977-81) both took office in circumstances similar to those that faced Reagan, but neither Nixon nor Carter possessed either the personal charisma or the compelling ideological vision to realign American politics like Reagan did. Ronald Reagan, unlike Nixon and Carter, possessed the political gifts to seize his moment of opportunity by changing, definitively, the course of American history.
Reagan's lasting legacy was to recast traditional American conservatism—which had been a minority viewpoint throughout the middle decades of the twentieth century—as a new mainstream populism for the contemporary era. The first key to Reagan's success was his genial personality; the president's sunny disposition and optimistic outlook did much to deflect liberal charges that conservatism was a philosophy of callous meanness and reckless militarism.
The second key to Reagan's success was his ability to distill complex ideological positions into simple aphorisms that sounded like common sense: "Government is not the solution to our problem," Reagan declared in his first inaugural address. "Government is the problem."9 This was merely the first and most famous of the many Reaganite assertions that have since become widely shared American assumptions about how the world works: Government is the problem. The free market solves problems better than politicians can. Lower taxes create economic growth. Welfare perpetuates poverty. Peace is only attainable through military strength. America is always a force for good in the world, its enemies an "Evil Empire." These are the core assumptions of the Reagan Revolution; these are the core assumptions that continue to shape our world.
|
<urn:uuid:002693af-2ccf-4ce1-b69c-b86b75f0dd30>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.shmoop.com/reagan-era/summary.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368699273641/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516101433-00025-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.97019
| 1,009
| 3
| 3
|
The Guide provides detailed explanation and analysis of federal, state, and local income tax withholding. You will find answers to all your questions concerning deposit and reporting requirements, Social Security and Medicare taxes, federal unemployment tax, state unemployment and disability, benefits law and regulation, federal and state wage-hour laws, garnishments and child support withholding and much more.
The Guide features a wealth of primary law directly linked to the text of the analysis to give you statutory backup whenever you need to make your point with management, unions and employees.
- Full text of the Internal Revenue Code and the Federal Tax Regulations, the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and the FLSA and FMLA regulations
- Cited sections of state wage-hour, wage-payment, income tax, child-support, new-hire-reporting, and garnishment statutes and regulations
- Special industry coverage of the healthcare, education, government, nonprofit, entertainment, and hospitality payrolls
- Federal and state forms, payroll savings ideas, calendars of deposit and filing due dates, withholding tables, quick reference charts to speed research, hundreds of real-life examples, tips, and cautions from payroll experts
- Wage-Hour Opinion Letters issued by the Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division
- Periodic special studies on hot topics
- Includes access to e-Form RS tax form library
- Includes access to five special payroll calculators: paycheck, gross-up, bonus (aggregate method), bonus (percentage), and hourly paycheck
You also receive, at no additional cost, the Payroll Guide Newsletter (biweekly) providing everything the payroll professional needs to keep up-to-date -- legislative developments, state regulatory updates, recent court decisions, current trends, commentary and advice from nationally known payroll experts.
|
<urn:uuid:674c7f58-1e27-4da6-9b24-5ce5f7f174e3>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://ria.thomsonreuters.com/estore/detail.aspx?ID=PG&SITE=/IntegratedSolutions/products
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368703682988/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516112802-00010-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.913021
| 367
| 1.664063
| 2
|
How To: Make Sure Your Students Hate History
It’s really not that hard. Just a little effort on your part and your students will be hating history with the best of them. Because, after all, that’s our job.
1. Memorize, memorize, memorize. If you try and have kids actually apply knowledge, you’ll be sure to fall behind in your scope and sequence. Having kids memorize and regurgitate is much faster.
One of the advantages of teaching history is that you don’t have to create things. You just have to remember stuff that happened and then parrot it back.
The Big Bang Theory
2. Never use more than one source of information. Multiple perspectives just confuse kids. Stick to one thing so there’s less ambiguity. What you don’t want is a classroom full of kids asking questions that you can’t answer. My suggestion? Textbook only.
3. When you talk about history, be sure to use your best monotone voice. Passion is a wasted emotion in a history class. If you’re not sure quite how to approach this, that econ guy from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is a great place to find a little inspiration.
4. If you actually decide to play a video or movie in your class, be sure to show the entire movie spread out over four class periods. Showing short clips that highlight key ideas won’t provide “the big picture.” Don’t provide any sort of guiding questions either. Just give them a worksheet to fill out while they’re watching that asks things like how many tanks were destroyed in Saving Private Ryan. That way you know they were paying attention. (And don’t forget to have your student aide grade that!) And never spend time on any sort of reflection – keep that scope and sequence in mind.
5. Don’t have students write. Ever. Classroom discussion is good enough to find out what kids are thinking. See Econ Teacher in #3 above. Besides, the more you have kids write, the more you’ll get kids (and parents) bugging you to actually grade it.
6. Make sure that your students always work alone. Having kids talk with other kids makes no sense at all. And group work? You don’t have time for that.
7. Provide the answers, not great essential questions. There should be no realistic problems to solve in your class. Like Sheldon said:
You just have to remember stuff that happened and parrot it back.
8. Two words. Multiple choice. It’s really three words. Multiple, choice, scantron. This sort of assessment has been proven (I’m pretty sure it’s been proven. I read it somewhere.) to be the most effective and reliable so don’t use any sort of authentic assessments. Authentic assessments = you guessed it . . . rubrics and grading.
9. Don’t read any history books yourself. You have all the history content you’ll ever need right there in the textbook. And forget trying to connect and discuss things with other history teachers. Some sort of argument always breaks out about an historical interpretation like the main cause of the Civil War. Who needs the headache?
10. Ignore any sort of technology integration. There’s not any need for historical simulations, online primary source documents, social media, web-based learning or mobile devices. School is for teaching, not for playing.
Ten easy steps.
But I’m sure more ideas are out there. What are your suggestions for getting kids to hate history?
|
<urn:uuid:925a68ea-ede2-46db-bd96-b2b969cdaf70>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://historytech.wordpress.com/2011/11/21/how-to-make-sure-your-students-hate-history/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368698924319/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516100844-00067-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.926674
| 776
| 2.875
| 3
|
We're also seeing job losses in virtually every sector. It's not for instance a "sectoral shift away from services and into matchstick production and tungsten." It's a shift out of jobs which are revealed as unprofitable and a lot of people not knowing where the new jobs will be created.
If someone wants to insist that "this is really an AD shock, not a sectoral shift," I'm not so keen on fighting to keep one term over the other. I would insist, however, on an issue of substance, namely that not all AD shocks are alike. If we are going to switch terminology, it could be said that this is a real AD shock and not just a nominal AD shock.
Again, I would caution that terms like "aggregate demand" and "aggregate supply" are totally artificial constructs. Back in the real world, the economy has no idea what they mean, and the unemployed have no way of labeling themselves as cyclically or structurally unemployed.
It may be useful to behave as if one had never been taught to think in terms of aggregate demand. Instead, suppose that I had to start with a blank sheet of paper and describe the state of the economy. I would say that the balance between workers exiting declining firms/industries and entering expanding firms/industries has disappeared. Instead, we have had over a year in which exit took place at a faster rate than entry.
Another way to put this is that the economy is only gradually learning where the expanding firms and sectors will be. As it learns more, employment growth will resume.
In the first two decades after the second World War, the recovery from a recession required little or no learning about where expansion was needed. A recession consisted of unemployment among construction workers and factory workers. Once the excess inventory of housing units and/or consumer durable goods was eliminated, jobs in these sectors would come back.
These were recessions in which we knew where the employment gains would take place. The current recession is one in which we do not know this. That is the primary empirical distinction between Recalculation and Aggregate Demand. The more precisely you know where the employment growth is going to take place, the more reasonable it is to think in terms of aggregate demand. On the other hand, if you do not know where job growth will take place, then we must include Recalculation as part of the story.
In the aggregate demand story, the recovery comes from restoring consumer spending. Make consumer credit more readily available, get people buying houses and consumer durables, and the economy will recover.
In the Recalculation Story, the recovery comes from profits in new businesses. As new businesses emerge and earn profits, they expand employment. If you are going to stimulate anything, stimulate business profits. That is why cutting the employer portion of the payroll tax appeals to me.
I have a longstanding bias in favor of profits and internal finance for business. In my first book, Under the Radar, I tried to talk entrepreneurs into selling to customers, not to investors. I said, "Fundraising is not for businesses. Fundraising is for charities." So keep in mind that it could be that my bias in favor of profit-financed business as opposed to investor-financed business is creeping into my macroeconomics.
I am prepared to argue that both the Great Depression and the current recession fit the Recalculation Story. The economy that woke up around 1950 was very different from the one that went to sleep around 1930. The post-Depression economy was much more oriented around gasoline-powered transportation. Farming became concentrated in farm belts and diminished near cities. Manufacturing dispersed out of central cities. Clerical work expanded relative to physical labor.
The biggest problem with the Recalculation Story concerns timing. The economy is restructuring all the time, and for many decades this can proceed smoothly. What is it that throws the economy off of the smooth restructuring path and throws it into Recalculation?
I have sort of a hand-waving answer to this question. I think that what happens during a boom is that you get an accumulation of postponed adjustments and maladjustments. Too many people stay for too long in obsolete occupations and too many people chase illusory opportunities.
A farsighted planner in the 1920's would have stepped in sooner to shrink the farm labor force and expand the clerical labor force. The planner would have reshuffled people into suburban communities, rather than waiting for the second World War to uproot men from their rural communities and urban ethnic enclaves. The planner would have tempered the enthusiasm for highly leveraged bets on electric utilities and automobile manufacturing plants. The planner would have aligned workers with an economy that could transport people and goods over paved roads, with less dependence on rivers or railroads.
A farsighted planner in the past decade would have stepped in sooner to shrink the manufacturing and construction labor force and expand the work force in health care and education. The planner would have tempered the enthusiasm for highly leveraged bets on housing and mortgages. The planner would have aligned workers with an economy that can transmit information wirelessly, with less dependence on paper or traditional telephones.
For a while, the postponed adjustments and maladjustments are papered over by financial enthusiasm. Financial euphoria allows profits and wealth to seemingly persist in spite of accumulating underlying imbalances. When the euphoria breaks, the imbalances are exposed, and it takes a long time to Recalculate.
Still, do not forget Scott Sumner's cyclical theory of cyclical theories. That is, during a boom, there is a tendency to think that macroeconomic stabilization policy is easily accomplished, using simple monetary rules. Right after a crash, people decide that the good times were false (and hence my story about underlying imbalances). As bad times persist, people decide that both the real business cycle and monetary stabilization stories are wrong, and that we need fiscal expansion.
|
<urn:uuid:e0f8792f-d963-4e53-b159-7a61eafbe981>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://econlog.econlib.org/archives/2009/12/distinguishing.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368709037764/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516125717-00013-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.970292
| 1,221
| 1.734375
| 2
|
Women's hostels in Arunachal Pradesh in a mess
Itanagar: The Union government's scheme to
provide hostel accommodation to single, divorced and unmarried
working women in the country lay in a shambles in Arunachal
Pradesh where 10 such hostels exist.
The women's hostels were built under the ambitious
scheme launched by the Union Ministry of Women and Child
Development way back in 1972 to provide accommodation to
working women at a minimal charge.
A visit to several of these hostels suggests that all
of them, with the exception of a few, have become almost
unliveable for lack of proper maintenance.
The hostels are located at Tawang, Bomdila, Itanagar,
Naharlagun, Roing, Ziro and Changlang which are managed by
Non-Governmental Organisations, Voluntary Organizations and a
few by the state Social Welfare Women and Child Development
The two hostels at Itanagar and Naharlagan are,
however, managed by the Arunachal Pradesh Social Welfare
Advisory Board (APSWAB).
A visit to a working women's hostel in the capital,
established in 1980, tells a sad tale.
The hostel with 10 rooms though boasts of several
toilets and bathrooms to cater to a more than 20 women
inmates, their dilapidated condition render these almost
What comes as a shock is that the inmates have to
cope with almost defunct water and power supply.
A boarder, said there were times when water supply
remained suspended for months together.
During such times, we have to beg water, and that
too a bucket at most, from the hotels nearby and make do with
it somehow,'' she lamented.
To add to the woes, doors and windows of the hostels
are all broken and to make up for this, the inmates shield
them with cardboards, cartons and whatever such like staff
they get hold of.
The irony is that every inmate pays rent regularly.
A double room costs about Rs 300, single room Rs 200
and another Rs 100 towards water and electricity bills per
As if this was not enough, many boarders complained
officially that males also, at times, stay in the hostel for
months claiming to be relatives or family members of women
The hostel warden, who is a working woman herself
residing in the hostel, acknowledged the boarders' account and
APSWAB member-secretary M Ali, when contacted, blamed
the alleged entry of males in the hostel on the delay in
approving a proposal for construction of a boundary wall.
|
<urn:uuid:526d949c-6053-4efc-b922-a584e4e26114>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://zeenews.india.com/print.aspx?nid=752858
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368699881956/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516102441-00000-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.939995
| 569
| 1.695313
| 2
|
The benefits of electronic healthcare are widely acknowledged. But will clinicians change to grasp them?
The long-awaited information strategy for the NHS was finally published at the end of May – almost a year behind schedule. Despite the wait, its contents provided no real surprises. Most had heard it all before. But too many in the health service had done little to make sure it succeeded.
The Power of Information is the latest attempt to create a framework to capitalise on the obvious potential of electronic healthcare. It follows in the footsteps of previous efforts to transform the NHS by harnessing the power of information, most notably the failed National Programme for IT. Much within the latest strategy will be familiar to those who have followed the long and expensive journey to drag the health service into the digital age. It shares many of the same lofty ambitions, drivers and justifications that decorated its predecessors. But crucially, plans to develop a centrally managed national system have been placed in the trash. The ‘information revolution’ is upon us again. This time it needs to work.
Success may largely depend on achieving a seismic shift in the cultural mindset of those at the heart of the NHS. Traditional GPs and consultants have developed a paternalistic Victorian view of the delivery of healthcare. They have a widespread belief that the whole process is owned and run by the clinician. On the face of it, whilst clinicians understand the benefits of electronic healthcare at a cerebral level, many have a deeply entrenched view that patient data belongs to them and they are unwilling to share it. If the NHS really does want to put the patient at the centre, the whole model of healthcare delivery is going to have to change, and clinicians’ tribal approach to informatics is going to have to change with it. In an integrated care system, building islands of information will only kill off the promise of electronic healthcare.
The Power of Information outlines a ten-year framework for transforming information for health and care. It covers healthcare, public health and social care in England. The strategy describes the acknowledged benefits of information and how, in the ‘electronic era’, the ability to access it quickly and securely can positively impact care – for health professionals, commissioners, carers, users of care services and, of course, patients. It lists the following as key ambitions:
- Information used to drive integrated care across health and social care, within and between organisations
- Information regarded as a health and care service in its own right
- A change in culture and mindset, whereby health and care professionals, organisations and systems recognise that information in care records belongs to the individual – and can be accessed easily
- Information is recorded once and can be shared securely across interoperable systems
- Electronic care records become the source for core information to improve care and services, and inform research
- A culture of transparency, where access to high-quality, evidence-based information about health and care services is openly accessible
- An information-led culture where all health and care professionals take responsibility for recording, sharing and using information to improve care
- The widespread use of modern technology to make health/care services more convenient, accessible and efficient
- An information system built on innovative and integrated solutions and local decision-making – within a framework of national standards that ensure information can move freely, safely and securely around the system
The final objective represents a departure from previous attempts to develop a national information system. To succeed, national standards for system interoperability must be agreed to provide local decision-makers with reassurance that their chosen technology will be able to communicate with others around the NHS and care system. The Government believes that if this can be achieved, being able to access, contribute to and share care records will dramatically improve the planning and commissioning of services and help clinicians and care professionals to develop improvement strategies that reflect local need. Moreover, it believes that improving access to quality information will support a patient-centric culture it describes as ‘no decision about me, without me’.
The blueprint draws attention to the importance of mindset change. “The success of this strategy depends as much on a cultural shift – in the way patients, users of services and professionals think, work and interact – as it does on data or IT systems,” it says. “It depends on making the shift to give us more control of our health and care and on recognising that sharing good information is pivotal to improving the quality, safety and effectiveness of our care, as well as our own experiences of care.”
Implications for pharma
A key aspect of the NHS Information Strategy is the notion that patient data can be aggregated, anoymised and shared to help inform strategic decisions about care services. The strategy document highlights that the research and life sciences communities will have access to a greater wealth of information to help drive improvements in health and care. Whilst the ability to use anonymised ‘real world’ data to guide commissioning, improve services and identify health trends has great potential benefits, the proposal to share it with commercial organisations is a contentious one. Critics already claim that data security within the NHS needs to be strengthened significantly to protect patient privacy. The suggestion of sharing data with the pharmaceutical industry, no matter what the perceived benefits may be, will need some careful PR before the wider public accepts it. But with the ambitious objective to ensure that everyone will have electronic access to their own care records by 2015 – starting with GP records – the opportunity to improve health research using patient data is within reach.
Call to action
The Information Strategy has largely been welcomed by senior figures within the NHS – but with the caveat that success will only arrive if the health service unites to turn the rhetoric into reality. NHS Confederation Chief Executive Mike Farrar said the strategy will bring ‘enormous benefits’ to patient care. “Having access to the right information is crucial for clinicians to make the best decisions for patients, and to improve the safety and quality of care they provide,” he said. “Information systems will help underpin the new system of commissioning and will play an important role in engaging clinicians in the planning, coordination and improvement of local care. Improved data will allow frontline clinicians to understand and address variations in the quality of care they provide and allow them to quickly go to work to bring about improvements.”
But he warned that the strategy would be key to the Government’s reform programme and that, if it didn’t succeed, the reforms would similarly fail. “NHS leaders are acutely aware that previous information strategies have not succeeded and if we try to implement this work in the same way as we have done in the past, we will fail again. The implementation of this strategy needs national coordination but will require local ownership and responsibility. That balance is critical if we are to be successful. There will not be any second chances for the NHS if we fail.”
Rapid advances in information technology, the benefits of which have been realised across most other business sectors, are providing a tremendous opportunity to redesign the model of healthcare delivery in the UK. Despite this, the success of the NHS Information Strategy will depend upon achieving a comprehensive change in mindset. The barriers to progress are not technological, they’re cultural.
|
<urn:uuid:bfa7c443-eec3-4ed8-921f-cb42a551c034>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.pharmafield.co.uk/be/?tag=/patient+data
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368711005985/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516133005-00073-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.943096
| 1,479
| 2.09375
| 2
|
Back in the ’70s, when there was still an East and West Germany, East Germany was very serious about winning international sports competitions, and was known to regularly dope their athletes (see also: East German swim team). Athletes were fed “performance enhancing drugs” (PEDs) — aka anabolic steroids — that bulked them up and made them more competitive. It was the East German athletes and coaches that inspired the Olympics to institute regular drug tests.
Heidi Krieger (pictured above, competing in 1987 as a woman) was a shot putter in East Germany, who won the gold medal at the 1986 European Championships. She was fed PEDs for several years, and says today that they are the reason she opted to get a sex change and live as a man. He now lives as Andreas Krieger. Keep reading »
Excited to head to Brazil’s 2014 Olympic Summer Games? Well, if you’re obese, expect to pay a little bit more to enjoy the sports. Where standard-sized stadium seats start at $28, all obese seating is $58. Brazilian law defines obesity as a “disability,” and as such requires that the stadium be properly outfitted for the disabled. Approximately 120 of the 64,000 seats in Castelao, the main Olympic stadium, were designed with the obese in mind and are equipped to hold up to 560 pounds. And just in case obese fans don’t feel bad enough about having to pay extra to watch the games, they’ll also be singled out by having their seats painted blue, instead of the regulation white used for all other seating. Keep reading »
Oscar Pistorious, 26, a Paralympian and Olympian and inspiration to athletes around the world, was arrested today — Valentine’s Day — and charged with murdering his girlfriend, model Reeva Steenkamp.
Police responded to a 3 a.m. call about gunshots in Pistorius’ upscale neighborhood of Silver Woods in Pretoria, South Africa, where Steenkamp, 30, was found dead with four bullet wounds. A police spokesperson told The New York Times that police had previously responded “allegations of a domestic nature” at Pistorius’ home. Police recovered a 9mm pistol from the scene.
After the jump, nine things to know about Reeva Steenkamp and Oscar Pistorius.
Keep reading »
We here at The Frisky offices have a little lady boner for Ryan Lochte — mostly for his abs, because he’s not like, the brightest. Just today he tweeted about meeting Miley “Sirus” — yes, that’s right. Plus, there’s that whole “Jeah” thing, which is pretty annoying. But again, there are his abs, which are wildly redeemable. Of late, Lochte has teemed up with Charitybuzz to raise funds for Hurricane Sandy victims. He’s auctioning off a morning swim lesson, along with “lunch at one of his favorite spots,” which we imagine is likely a Chili’s or Applebees. But oh, there’s a catch… Keep reading »
We already know that Maria Sharapova is a hardcore philanthropist and kickass tennis player who has scored some of the biggest endorsement deals around, but her equally formidable sweet tooth managed to fly under the radar … until now. The Olympic silver medalist and four-time Grand Slam winner (and she’s only 25!) launched her premium candy line, Sugarpova, at Henri Bendel yesterday, and at risk of sounding tooth-achingly trite, Sharapova looked pretty damn sweet herself. A metallic dark brown liner smudged between the lashes and a sheer, shimmery mushroom taupe shadow on the lids enhances her almond-shaped eyes without the “too much” factor when paired with a pretty coral lipstick. This look is super-simple and the clean, fresh vibe is perfect for the office … or anywhere else, really. Get the details after the jump! Keep reading »
Two-time Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas looked every bit the sparkling superstar that she is while navigating JFK Airport on her way to an appearance on “The Tonight Show” yesterday. Her metallic gold mini skirt and black motorcycle jacket are a flattering, edgy, and age-appropriate choice for her triumphant return to the U.S. Gabby definitely wins gold in the Best Outfit All-Around. [Photo: Fame/Flynet]
The first thing you notice about gold medal winning Olympic rower Esther Lofgren is her smile. The next thing you notice is her height — at 6’2″ Esther towers over nearly everyone she meets, but she’s warm and will happily stoop to accomodate those around her. The Harvard grad took home the gold during the London Olympics with an impressive team performance in the women’s eight-person race.
We spoke to Esther while she was getting her nails done at the P&G Family Home salon about how she made it to the Olympics, what it’s like to work with all women, and how she keeps her skin looking so damn good.
Keep reading »
Olympic swimmer/world record breaker/real life superhero Michael Phelps now has another title to add to his impressive resume: Louis Vuitton model. The legendary athlete and alleged retiree is starring in the latest round of Louis Vuitton “Core Values” ad campaigns, shot by Annie Leibovitz. One of the photos shows Phelps reclining in a bathtub, wearing goggles and a Speedo, showing off his amazing body and—wait, is that a fart bubble between his legs? OK, OK, so it’s probably just a weird shadow or the outline of a drain or something, but I kind of wish it was a fart, if only because, as my boyfriend put it, “That would make his facial expression so much funnier.” [Fashionista]
Annie Lennox totally killed it during last night’s Olympic closing ceremony. The singer, who got her start as one half of The Eurythmics, performed a rousing, pirate-y rendition of her hit “Little Bird,” which stood out against the four (four!) Jessie J performances and Fat Boy Slim’s faux DJ-ing. We were reminded of Annie’s super original look, especially her standout style during her early years with The Eurythmics, and decided to try and copy her boyish look. After the jump, we give you our best go at Annie’s signature “Sweet Dreams” style, softened just a touch.
Keep reading »
|
<urn:uuid:2c42978d-1c84-4090-bf2e-c6e788f7a3e4>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.thefrisky.com/tag/olympics/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368704392896/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516113952-00021-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.966699
| 1,416
| 1.726563
| 2
|
Born in Lasynys Fawr (grid reference SH596327) near Harlech, Gwynedd, Wynne excelled at school and entered Jesus College, Oxford on 1 March 1692. There is historical debate as to whether or not he graduated, and little evidence to support either claim, but local tradition suggests that he was studying law before he was convinced to take Holy Orders by his friend Humphrey Humphreys, Bishop of Bangor and, afterwards, of Hereford. He was ordained a priest in December 1704. During his life, he was priest of the parishes of Llandanwg, Llanbedr and Llanfair.
Although a respected priest, Welsh translator and hymn writer, Wynne is remembered today largely because of his literary output. His Gweledigaetheu y Bardd Cwsc ('Visions of the Sleeping Bard'), first published in London in 1703, is regarded as a Welsh language classic. It is generally said that no better model exists of such 'pure' idiomatic Welsh, before writers had become influenced by English style and method. On the title page of the book, the words Y Rhann Gyntaf ('The First Part') appear; it has been suggested that Wynne had indeed written a second part - a 'Vision of heaven' - but on hearing that he had been charged with plagiarism of the first part, destroyed the manuscript. The charges of plagiarism were never substantiated and are, today, regarded as false.
Wynne's later life is as obscure as the early part of his life, and we know little of what became of him after the publication of the Gweledigaethau. He was buried under the altar at Llanfair (near Harlech).
|
<urn:uuid:a48220da-da06-45f4-9787-5949bca6fe13>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ellis_Wynne
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368708142388/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516124222-00034-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.984264
| 359
| 2.296875
| 2
|
Fraud and Corruption
Lancaster City Council is committed to the highest possible standards of openness, probity and accountability in relation to preventing, reporting and managing fraud or misconduct.
The council's approach to preventing and tackling fraud and corruption is outlined below and in the documents in the right hand downloads menu.
The Anti-Fraud and Corruption Strategy and Policy documents outline the principles the council is committed to in relation to preventing, reporting and manageing fraud and corruption.
The Whistleblowing Policy and Code of Practice is intended to encourage and enable employees to raise serious concerns within the council rather than overlooking a problem or blowing the whistle outside.
The Fraud Response Plan reinforces the council's robust approach by setting out the ways in which employees, Members of the council or members of the public can voice their concerns about suspected fraud or corruption.
National Fraud Initiative
By law the council is required to protect the public funds it administers. That is why the council is an active participant in the National Fraud Initiative (NFI), a statutory nationwide drive to crack down on the amount of public money lost each year through fraud. This requires the council to share information provided to us with other bodies in order to prevent and detect fraud.
|
<urn:uuid:c3ec66fc-f8a4-405c-a3bf-e6a601878c8a>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.lancaster.gov.uk/council-and-democracy/council-priorities-and-key-documents/fraud-and-corruption/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706499548/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516121459-00059-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.91801
| 248
| 1.609375
| 2
|
New Delhi: At a time when the government is preparing to use Aadhaar-enabled bank accounts for direct cash transfers of subsidies, the finance ministry has clarified that the unique identification number can only be used as an identity proof and not as an address proof for opening regular bank accounts.
While an Aadhaar unique identification number is sufficient to open a no-frills bank account, it is not enough for a regular account, financial services secretary D.K. Mittal said, addressing the concerns of some northern states over the problems faced by customers in opening bank accounts using the Aadhaar number.
There has been confusion among banks over accepting Aadhaar as the sole “know-your-customer” (KYC) proof.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in a notification, had also insisted that the banks satisfy themselves that the address contained in Aadhaar is correct.
“As per RBI guidelines, Aadhaar is enough for meeting know-your-customer requirements for no-frill accounts. But for large accounts, an address proof is also required along with Aadhaar,” Mittal told reporters after a meeting between finance minister P. Chidambaram and the chief ministers of six northern states.
A no-frills account is subject to various limitations, including a Rs.1-lakh cap on the total amount that can be deposited in it in a fiscal. Customers also need to provide more details within a year for the account to be operational though the deadline can be extended by a year.
Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit, who was also present at the meeting, said the government had received complaints about difficulties in opening bank accounts using Aadhaar.
The opening of Aadhaar-linked bank accounts is key to moving towards a regime of direct transfer of cash subsidies for the various schemes of the government. The government has announced that starting 1 January, direct cash transfer of subsidies to beneficiaries will begin in 51 districts.
A government official aware of the development said the first notification issued by RBI said Aadhaar was a valid proof of address and identity for no-frills accounts but later it issued another notification to make the unique identity number a valid proof of address and proof of identity for regular accounts as well.
However, the language of the notification was ambiguous, which created confusion among banks about it being a valid proof of address, he said on condition of anonymity.
Mittal said there is unlikely to be any change in this stand as the central bank has to adhere to the global norms for preventing money laundering.
The government will also start with cash transfers to those beneficiaries who do not have an Aadhaar number. “Aadhaar is not available to everybody and there are operational issues there. Wherever Aadhaar is not there, we will not wait for Aadhaar to come,” Mittal said. “We will start money transfer from 1 January. Where there is no Aadhaar, we can use voter cards which are acceptable KYCs. When Aadhaar comes, we can adopt that,” he said.
In the meeting, the finance ministry held discussions with the state governments on how to ensure smooth transfer of cash subsidies for the various schemes run by the states as well as steps to integrate bank accounts with state systems.
“The Aadhaar number is being used only as an identity proof since there is a possibility that the address printed in the card has changed,” said Narendra Singh, chairman and managing director of Bank of Maharashtra. “Banks are getting prepared for starting electronic cash transfers. The main challenge will be to put in place a low-cost operating model, which will mainly be through the business correspondent route,” he said.
Surabhi Agarwal contributed to this story.
|
<urn:uuid:3d709ed0-de2d-4e4e-974a-404c6424d55f>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.livemint.com/Politics/9ftwq0epNmJtEirqsHg7HK/Aadhaar-only-an-identity-proof-not-address-proof-says-DK.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368703682988/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516112802-00062-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.968436
| 756
| 1.640625
| 2
|
Following on from my last blog post, ‘Mallee, what is?‘, I thought I would briefly introduce some geographic context to my mallee musings with ‘Mallee, where is?‘…
‘Mallee’ is a vegetation that is typically mapped based on the biogeography of dominant ‘mallee’ eucalypts. It is uniquely Australian, with large tracts of open scrub mallee occurring in north west Victoria, south west NSW, south SA and south east WA.
In the east of Australia, the mallee is restricted to sand plains and sand dunes of the of the Murray basin, and large tracts of remnant mallee vegetation occur across Victoria, NSW and SA.
In Victoria, good places to see mallee type vegetation are The Little Desert, Wyperfeld, Big Desert and Murray Sunset National Parks.
Sometimes referred to as ‘Victoria’s Deserts’ these parks contain a rich diversity of flora and fauna…. as well as quite a bit of sand.
Sand dunes are a prominent feature of the mallee landscape and are clearly visible from satellite imagery. The Murray Basin has a complex geological history, but broadly speaking many landscape features visible today were established in the Pliocene and early Holocene due to marine and fluvial deposition, as inland seas expanded and retreated.
I will be mainly working in Murray Sunset National Park, which has a diverse vegetation driven by changing soil types across the region. What does this look like from the ground? Some major plant families in the area include Myrtaceae, Chenopodiaceae and Myoporaceae … stay tuned for more info on these plant families in future posts.
For now, heres a sampler of some of the plants you might see in this region:
- Noble, J. C. & Bradstock, Ross Andrew. & CSIRO. (1989). Mediterranean landscapes in Australia : mallee ecosystems and their management. East Melbourne, Vic. : CSIRO.
- National Mallee Conference. & Noble, J. C. & Joss, P. J. & Jones, G. K. & CSIRO. (1990). The Mallee lands : a conservation perspective : proceedings of the National Mallee Conference, Adelaide, April, 1989. Melbourne : CSIRO Australia.
- White, M., A. Oates, et al. (2003). “The vegetation of north-west Victoria: a report to the Wimmera, North Central and Mallee catchment management authorities.” Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Melbourne.
- For mallee related photos:
and Google Earth.
|
<urn:uuid:5abdffb5-f783-4f97-bb4c-500c32ee93e6>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://fmthomasresearch.wordpress.com/2012/07/11/mallee-where-is/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368710006682/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516131326-00067-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.903225
| 556
| 3.515625
| 4
|
Industries Environmental Impact Statements (EISs)
Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Kinder Morgan Louisiana Pipeline (KMLP) Project (Docket No. CP06-449-000)
Issued: April 20, 2007
The staff of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has prepared a final environmental impact statement (EIS) for the Kinder Morgan Louisiana Pipeline (KMLP) Project.
The Project facilities would be located in Cameron, Calcasieu, Jefferson Davis, Acadia, and Evangeline Parishes in Louisiana and consist of approximately 132.2 miles of 42-inch-diameter pipeline; 1.2 miles of 36-inch-diameter pipeline; 2.3 miles of 24-inch-diameter pipeline; and associated mainline block valves, metering, tie-in, and pigging facilities. The purpose of the proposed facilities is to deliver at least 3,395,000 decatherms per day of regasified natural gas from the Sabine Pass Liquefied Natural Gas Terminal into the national pipeline and underground storage grid.
The final EIS was prepared to satisfy the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) are participating as cooperating agencies in the preparation of the EIS.
The FERC staff concludes that the Project, with the appropriate mitigation measures as recommended, would be an environmentally acceptable action. The principal reasons are:
- About 54 percent of the proposed pipeline route would collocate with or parallel existing rights-of-way;
- KMLP would use horizontal directional drilling across most sensitive areas, including major waterbodies, oyster reefs, several wetlands, congested pipeline corridors, and select roads and developed areas;
- KMLP would consult with resource agencies to further avoid and minimize impacts to wetlands, essential fish habitat, and threatened and endangered species;
- Construction would be done in accordance with the FERC's Upland Erosion Control, Revegetation, and Maintenance Plan and the FERC's Wetland and Waterbody Construction and Mitigation Procedures;
- All applicable permits and authorizations would be obtained by KMLP prior to initiating construction or operation activities; and
- An environmental inspection and monitoring program would ensure compliance with all mitigation measures that become conditions of any Commission authorization.
- » Cover Letter
- » Table of Contents
- » Executive Summary
- » Section 1
- » Section 2
- » Section 3
- » Section 4
- » Section 5
- » Additional Documents in eLibrary
The FERC Commissioners will take into consideration staff's recommendations and the final EIS when they make decisions on the Project.
|
<urn:uuid:bcee63db-1c80-49eb-94d4-9429ef93822b>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.ferc.gov/industries/gas/enviro/eis/2007/04-20-07.asp
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368700264179/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516103104-00031-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.911947
| 566
| 2.484375
| 2
|
Egypt's Sinai Peninsula has turned into a "kind of Wild West" exploited by Islamist militants with Iranian help to smuggle in weapons and stage attacks on Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday.
The open desert border between Israel and Egypt was relatively quiet for three decades after they signed a peace treaty in 1979. But the Jewish state says that since the fall of Hosni Mubarak in a popular uprising last year, Cairo has lost its grip on the desolate Sinai and tensions are rising.
Earlier this month, Israel said a rocket fired from Sinai hit its Red Sea resort of Eilat, causing no injuries. Last August, cross-border infiltrators shot dead eight Israelis and Israeli soldiers repelling the attack accidentally killed six Egyptian guards.
"The Sinai is turning into a kind of Wild West which … terror groups from Hamas, Islamic Jihad and Al-Qaeda, with the aid of Iran, are using to smuggle arms, to bring in arms, to mount attacks against Israel," Netanyahu told Israel Radio.
"We are acting against this reality and we are in … continuous discussions with the Egyptian government, which is also troubled by this," said Netanyahu.
Iran denies supporting militants against its arch-enemy.
Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman was quoted as saying on Sunday that the situation in Egypt was more worrying than what was happening in Iran, and called for a significant boost to troop numbers along the southern borders.
In an apparent riposte, Egypt's interim military ruler, Field Marshal Hussein Tantawi, cautioned on Monday against any interference along the long desert frontier.
"Our borders, especially the northeast ones, are inflamed. We do not attack neighboring countries but will defend our territory," Egypt's state news agency MENA quoted him as saying.
"We will break the legs of anyone trying to attack us or who come near the borders."
He spoke just hours after Egypt unexpectedly terminated a deal to sell natural gas to Israel, although leaders in both countries have been quick to stress it was a business rather than a political issue.
"The stopping of the agreement is a result of a commercial dispute between the Egyptian company and a private Israeli company," Netanyahu said on Tuesday.
To fend off infiltration, Israel is building a fence along the border with Egypt that it hopes to complete by the end of 2012. When finished, the barrier will run most of the 266 km from Eilat up to the Gaza Strip.
The Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, which does not recognize Israel's existence, controls Gaza and is looking to forge close ties with Islamist parties that recently triumphed in Egypt's parliamentary elections.
Netanyahu said he hoped Egypt's new rulers would continue to abide by the historic peace treaty.
"I hope that the next government will understand that this is in Egyptian interests no less than it is in Israeli interests," he said.
Egypt has paid an economic price for the lawlessness in Sinai. The pipeline exporting natural gas to both Jordan and Israel has been blown up more than a dozen times in the last year, while its Red Sea resorts have seen a drop in tourists.
Israel's counter-terrorism bureau renewed a warning on Sunday, urging Israelis not to travel to the Sinai because of intelligence warnings of planned militant attacks.Tags: Wild West, Sinai Peninsula, Islamist militants, Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
|
<urn:uuid:148f75d2-4ab1-4419-875a-b55d72f03772>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.medianet2.com/tag/wild-west/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368708142388/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516124222-00037-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.965081
| 683
| 1.515625
| 2
|
As we head into 2012, many of us will be resolving to lose those few extra pounds, save more money, or spend a few more hours with our families and friends. But there are also some resolutions we can make to make our lives a little greener. Each of us, especially in the United States, can make a commitment to reducing our environmental impacts.
The United Nations has designated 2012 as the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All. Broadening access to sustainable energy is essential to solving many of the world’s challenges, including food production, security, and poverty.
Hunger, poverty, and climate change are issues that we can all help address. Here are 12 simple steps to go green in 2012:
Recycling programs exist in cities and towns across the United States, helping to save energy and protect the environment. In 2009, San Francisco became the first U.S. city to require all homes and businesses to use recycling and composting collection programs. As a result, more than 75 percent of all material collected is being recycled, diverting 1.6 million tons from the landfills annually—double the weight of the Golden Gate Bridge. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, for each pound of aluminum recovered, Americans save the energy resources necessary to generate roughly 7.5 kilowatt-hours of electricity—enough to power a city the size of Pittsburgh for six years!
|
<urn:uuid:d88c169a-fcdc-4005-8001-923600a2af26>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://blogs.worldwatch.org/nourishingtheplanet/tag/new-year/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368696382584/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516092622-00022-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.93787
| 289
| 3.296875
| 3
|
By Shawn Achor
If you observe people around you, you’ll find most individuals follow a formula that has been subtly or not so subtly taught to them by their schools, their company, their parents, or society. That is: If you work hard, you will become successful, and once you become successful, then you’ll be happy. This pattern of belief explains what most often motivates us in life. We think: If I just get that raise, or hit that next sales target, I’ll be happy. If I lose that five pounds, I’ll be happy. And so on. Success first, happiness second.
The only problem is that this formula is broken.
If success causes happiness, then every employee who gets a promotion, every student who receives an acceptance letter, everyone who has ever accomplished a goal of any kind should be happy. But with each victory, our goalposts of success keep getting pushed further and further out, so that happiness gets pushed over the horizon.
Even more important, the formula is broken because it is backward. More than a decade of groundbreaking research in the fields of positive psychology and neuroscience has proven in no uncertain terms that the relationship between success and happiness works the other way around. Thanks to this cutting-edge science, we now know that happiness is the precursor to success, not merely the result. And that happiness and optimism actually fuel performance and achievement—giving us the competitive edge I call the Happiness Advantage.
Waiting to be happy limits our brain’s potential for success, whereas cultivating positive brains makes us more motivated, efficient, resilient, creative, and productive, which drives performance upward. This discovery has been confirmed by thousands of scientific studies and in my own work and research on 1,600 Harvard students and dozens of Fortune 500 companies worldwide. In this book, you will learn not only why the Happiness Advantage is so powerful, but how you can use it on a daily basis to increase your success at work. But I’m getting excited and jumping ahead of myself. I begin this book where I began my research, at Harvard, where the Happiness Advantage was born.
Discovering the Happiness Advantage
I applied to Harvard on a dare.
I was raised in Waco, TX, and never really expected to leave. Even as I was applying to Harvard, I was setting down roots and training to be a local volunteer firefighter. For me, Harvard was a place from the movies, the place mothers joke about their kids going to when they grow up. The chances of actually getting in were infinitesimally small. I told myself I’d be happy just to tell my kids someday, offhandedly at dinner, that I had even applied to Harvard. (I imagined my imaginary children being quite impressed.)
When I unexpectedly was accepted, I felt thrilled and humbled by the privilege. I wanted to do the opportunity justice. So I went to Harvard, and I stayed…for the next 12 years.
When I left Waco, I had been out of Texas four times and never out of the country (though Texans consider anything out of Texas foreign travel). But as soon as I stepped out of the T in Cambridge and into Harvard Yard, I fell in love. So after getting my BA, I found a way to stay. I went to grad school, taught sections in 16 different courses, and then began delivering lectures. As I pursued my graduate studies, I also became a Proctor, an officer of Harvard hired to lie in residence with undergraduates to help them navigate the difficult path to both academic success and happiness within the Ivory Tower. This effectively meant that I lived in a college dorm for a total of 12 years of my life (not a fact I brought up on first dates).
I tell you this for two reasons. First, because I saw Harvard as such a privilege, it fundamentally changed the way my brain processed my experience. I felt grateful for every moment, even in the midst of stress, exams, and blizzards (something else I had only seen in the movies). Second, my 12 years teaching in the classrooms and living in the dorms afforded me a comprehensive view of how thousands of other Harvard students advanced through the stresses and challenges of their college years. That’s when I began noticing the patterns.
Paradise Lost and Found
Around the time that Harvard was founded, John Milton wrote in “Paradise Lost,” “The Mind is its own place, and in itself can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven.”
Three hundred years later, I observed this principle come to life. Many of my students saw Harvard as a privilege, but others quickly lost sight of that reality and focused only on the workload, the competition, the stress. They fretted incessantly about their future, despite the fact that they were earning a degree that would open so many doors. They felt overwhelmed by every small setback instead of energized by the possibilities in front of them. And after watching enough of those students struggle to make their way through, something dawned on me. Not only were these students the ones who seemed most susceptible to stress and depression, they were the ones whose grades and academic performance were suffering the most.
Years later, in the fall of 2009, I was invited to go on a month-long speaking tour throughout Africa. During the trip, a CEO from South Africa named Salim took me to Soweto, a township just outside Johannesburg that many inspiring people, including Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, have called their home.
We visited a school next to a shantytown where there was no electricity and scarce running water. Only when I was in front of the children did it dawn on me that none of the stories I normally use in my talks would work. Sharing the research and experiences of privileged American college students and wealthy, powerful business leaders seemed inappropriate. So I tried to open a dialogue. Struggling for points of common experience, I asked in a clearly tongue-in-cheek tone, “Who here likes to do schoolwork?” I thought the seemingly universal distaste for schoolwork would bond us together. But to my shock, 95 percent of the children raised their hands and started smiling genuinely and enthusiastically.
Afterward, I jokingly asked Salim why the children of Soweto were so weird. “They see schoolwork as a privilege,” he replied, “one that many of their parents did not have.” When I returned to Harvard two weeks later, I saw students complaining about the very thing Soweto students saw as a privilege. I started to realize just how much our interpretation of reality changes our experience of that reality. The students who were so focused on the stress and the pressure—the ones who saw learning as a chore—were missing out on all the opportunities right in front of them. But those who saw attending Harvard as a privilege seemed to shine even brighter. Almost unconsciously at first, and then with ever increasing interest, I became fascinated with what caused those high- potential individuals to develop a positive mindset to excel, especially in such a competitive environment. And likewise, what caused those who succumbed to the pressure to fail—or stay stuck in a negative or neutral position.
Excerpt from “The Happiness Advantage” by Shawn Achor (Crown Business). To purchase the book visit http://www.amazon.com/Happiness-Advantage-Principles-Psychology-Performance/dp/0307591549.
Shawn Achor has spoken in 42 countries to a wide variety of audiences: bankers on Wall Street, students in Dubai, and CEOs in Zimbabwe. Prior to founding Good Think Inc., Shawn spent more than a decade at Harvard University. He graduated magna cum laude from Harvard and earned a Masters from Harvard Divinity School in Christian and Buddhist ethics. When the global economy collapsed in 2008, Achor was called in as an expert by the world’s largest banks to help restart forward progress. For more information, visit: www.shawnachor.com.
|
<urn:uuid:e5f77647-3140-4e72-89b4-b965c4ca9d0c>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://trainingmag.com/article/happiness-breeds-success
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368696381249/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516092621-00068-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.974763
| 1,668
| 2.125
| 2
|
On the night before Christmas many children are so overcome with anticipation that they can't sleep. Many individuals on the night before their wedding do exactly the same. We all know from experience what we go through when some long-awaited, joyous event is near, birth of a child for example, and expectancy becomes unbearable. All of these emotions, and a lot more besides, are in play as we wait for the Second Advent of Jesus Christ.
Over two thousand years ago Jesus Christ the Son of God came to this earth and lived a perfect life as a human being. His death at the age of 33 years was untimely and cruel but it was all foreseen and every thing happened in accordance with God's will. Before Jesus departed this world, prior to his death and glorious resurrection, he made an important promise, "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." (John 14:3).
Two thousand years to keep a promise, in terms of human thinking, seems to be a long time and many have grown weary and lost all hope. The skeptics are having the time of their lives for they never believed the promise in the first place and it seems events are supporting their contention. But the doubters are wrong for they confuse their myopic timescale with God's well-planned timescale; they fail to differentiate between a seeming delay and a cancellation and even more so they fail to understand the scriptures and God's compassion for mankind.
Our scripture for reflection is Acts 1:11 when in the last few minutes of his earthly existence Jesus is ascending to heaven and his faithful disciples, who were with him day and night for three and a half years, just cannot take in what they are witnessing. They are seeing it, and seeing is to know, seeing is reality and yet something tells them "this can't be happening". Their sensory perception was overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the event and as they gazed disbelievingly into the sky two men stood by them in white apparel and said, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven." (Ac 1:11) If this was the only scripture that supported the doctrine of the Second Advent of Jesus Christ we would be confident that it will take place because God's words need no corroboration or affirmation to establish its veracity. But as we shall see in this reflection the Bible is full of references to the Second Advent, for this is the blessed hope of all believers and you are invited to come with me as we examine together the Second Advent of Jesus Christ.
First we note regrettably that the godless disbelieve his coming
This is not a recent phenomenon for there has always been doubters going right back to the beginning of Christianity. Just as it was in Jesus' day the same is true in our day; there are those who disregard the teachings of Jesus and nothing will convince them. We owe it to ourselves to respectfully examine these godless people to see if they can teach us anything of value.
It is fair that we examine their disposition
There is a human tide of godless people sweeping over the land infecting everything it touches and it is particularly hostile to the concept that Jesus Christ will return to this earth. Among this group are anarchists, and those who believe that man's existence is pointless and those who see everything as a meaningless accident with no future. The Apostle Peter, writing to Christians everywhere warning them of corrupt teachers and the like, called these people scoffers, "Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lust, and saying , Where is the promise of his coming?" (2 Peter 3:3-4a). Their outlook motivates them to mock, ridicule, make fun of and deride anything spiritual. You do not have to look very hard to recognize it today! People such as these, approaching biblical concepts with a closed mind and a hard heart, will not avail themselves of the knowledge and grace of the soon returning Jesus Christ though both are freely available.
Many today laugh at and pour scorn on Christians' belief and sneer along with these godless people, especially the atheist, but nothing they say or do will affect the Second Advent in any way for God is going to surprise them all.
It is reasonable that we scrutinize their demeanour
These godless people are obstinately adhering to a rotten lifestyle, which they do not want to give up, meaning that they are willfully and forcefully poking fun at God's coming judgment. This conduct becomes comfortable and acceptable to them and before long becomes conventional just as the people of Noah's day were so inclined. "For as in the days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day Noah entered the ark, and knew not until the flood came, and took them all away" (Matthew 24:38-39a)
It is mighty hard to convince those wallowing in such behaviour that something cataclysmic is approaching or even likely for they will respond only when disaster strikes. The inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah were similarly disposed, "And Lot went out and spake to his sons in law, which married his daughters, and said, Up, get you out of this place; for the Lord will destroy this city. But he seemed as one that mocked unto his sons in law." (Genesis 19:14).
The world today is in very great slumber, indifferent and disbelieving but it makes no difference with God and the world will soon find out!
It is rational that we study their disparagement
The doubters look back over their tiny lifespan and heap derision on God because he has not performed to their expectations, "And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation." (2 Peter 3: 4) They are contemptuous of Bible prophecy and take neither the time to enquire and understand its provisions nor appreciate the total accuracy of its performance to date and the Bible warns, "Therefore be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think not, the Son of man cometh." (Matthew 24:44).
God can come for this world and bring closure at any time and it matters not what you or anyone else thinks! We should not delude ourselves that our refusal to accept certain truths has some impact on those truths. Because some people believed the earth was flat did not make it so.
Next we view with delight that God decided his coming
God's determination is according to his wisdom
God does not work to the timescales and impulses of ignorant men, lets agree that if he did he would not be God, but rather to the wisdom and counsel of himself for the greater good of mankind based on his superior wisdom. The Bible asserts this superior wisdom like this, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." (Isaiah 55: 8-9). Man makes flawed decisions and then scrambles around trying to find people to blame for his mistakes but this is not God's way.
God plans, then executes and stands ready to verify the rightness of his decisions. People forget that Sovereign God is in charge, "But he stands alone, and who can oppose him? He does whatever he pleases." (Job 23: 13 NIV). The timing, tone and tenure of the Second Advent of Jesus Christ have been decided by God alone and to him be the glory for his matchless wisdom.
God's intention is according to his will
The greatest comfort to all mankind is that God's sovereign will prevails supremely in all matters where God so decides and man can neither influence it nor set it aside. He worked according to his will in forming this world, "Let all the earth fear the Lord: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast." (Psalm 33: 8-9). He worked according to his will in sending the Flood, "And the Lord said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth" (Genesis 6:7a) and did just that, "And all flesh died that moved upon the face of the earthand of every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth and every man." (Genesis 7:21). He worked according to his will in sending Jesus Christ to die for mankind and offer us redemption, "But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons" (Galatians 4:4-5).
In like manner God has determined when it is right to destroy this world, "But the heavens and the earth, which are now by the same word, are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the Day of Judgment" (2 Peter 3:7) Believers need not fear for God will deliver his promises exactly in compliance with his decretive will.
God's timing is according to his word
We will never know in this life but perhaps in the life to come the full substantiality, power and reach of that which proceed out of the mouth of God. God does not lightly give his word, but having given it is bound by it forever. "For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven." (Psalm 119:89) and this is boldly affirmed in Matthew, "For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled." (Matthew 5:18) This is related to the word of God given by law through Moses and completely honoured by God but the honouring of his word went far beyond the law to his every pronouncement as shown here, "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away." (Matthew 24: 35).
God has told us through his prophets that his everlasting kingdom will come, headed by the Messiah Jesus Christ, and it will come just as it is declared in God's word. It is for good reason that believers live and die by it for God's word is eternally reliable.
We observe thankfully that God apparently delayed his coming
For many in the world it would seem that God's coming, the Second Advent of Jesus Christ is long overdue. Some early Christians too were convinced of his immediate return and had stopped working and were literally waiting on the mountaintops and fields for his return and Paul had to set them straight as told in 2 Thessalonians. What to us is an apparent delay or a sign of unscheduled lateness is nothing of the kind but patently part of God's original plans. As we consider this "delayed coming" we should contemplate several important factors.
God's apparent delay compels us to contemplate the present reality
God's time clock runs to a different scale from man's and the eternal God is totally oblivious to a divine urgency, "But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day." (2 Peter 3:8) God's reality is eternal and time has no definitive influence but man's reality is temporal and time is of the essence. We are admonished accordingly, "Redeeming the time for the days are evil." (Ephesians 5:16) The time of judgment (and therefore his Second Advent) is coming, "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment." (Hebrews 9:27) and Jesus himself will be Judge, "and testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of the quick and the dead." (Acts 10:42b) It may be difficult for us but we absolutely must see this Second Advent from God's perspective rather than our own.
God's apparent delay requires us to consider this reminder
Because the eternal God is not working to our timescale and program does not mean he is sloppy and slack as some would charge. The Apostle Peter says this, "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9). Remember always that God's timing is perfect and because he is God he will not be coerced into precipitate action but will act when he is ready and not before. It is just possible that the time is near that all who will be saved are saved and then the world's existence becomes rather pointless from God's perspective.
God's apparent delay is positive so cherish this reason
If God's coming is delayed as viewed from a temporal standpoint then it is so for redemptive purposes based on God's compassion and tolerance. Humans have this capacity for wanting things done their way and to their timing. It is like a bus waiting to leave the terminal and it is already a few minutes late when you manage to get on. You now become impatient for the bus to leave completely forgetting that if it had left on time you would have missed it. God's timing benefits mankind, "but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9). But the wait will not be forever just as the bus will surely leave the terminal, the train will without doubt leave the station and the Second Advent unquestionably will take place.
Whatever the reasons for the apparent delay the time to act is now. Behold now is the accepted time, tomorrow may be too late. From the first day the flood was proclaimed until it swept away the Noah's generation was 120 years, but it came!
Jesus is coming again to bring an end to time and usher in eternity. The Bible is clear that at a time of God's choosing Jesus will come as a Judge and not as a Savior and if we are not ready then we will be judged and be sentenced to eternal damnation as told in Revelation 20:12-15. Some may scoff, mock and make fun of Christ Second Advent and for believers the anticipation may be so great as to be overpowering but relax for in God's time it will really happen.
Books by this author (non-fiction except indicated otherwise)
E-books Published by Amazon.com
When you access the site, click on How Buying Works and you will see the FREE aps. Then click as appropriate.
BASTARD: A STORY OF REDEMPTION (fiction)
STAND UP TO THE DEVIL (5 Volumes)
Volume 1 You must first identify him
Volume 2 The Devil is not the boss
Volume 3 Let's start rumbling
Volume 4 Using the 4 silent weapons
Volume 5 These three weapons will finish him off
THINGS EVERY CHRISTIAN SHOULD KNOW (3 Volumes)
Volume 1 Five tough facts to be faced
Volume 2 Five big truths not to be ignored
Volume 3 Five challenging realities to be acknowledged
Hard copy published by Tate Publishing
ONE MINUTE TO MIDNIGHT ON GOD'S CLOCK
Dr. Henderson Ward received his Doctor of Divinity in theology, with distinction, from Masters International School of Divinity, USA, where he is currently a post-doctoral fellow. Dr. Ward's career involved pastoring, evangelism, and teaching. Copyright 2013
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com
If you died today, are you absolutely certain that you would go to heaven? You can be! TRUST JESUS NOW
JOIN US at FaithWriters for Free. Grow as a Writer and Spread the Gospel.
|
<urn:uuid:4cc4dbbf-0c55-4854-b3c1-1255ac60a952>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://articles.faithwriters.com/reprint-article-details.php?article=22190
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368703298047/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516112138-00074-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.974005
| 3,348
| 1.640625
| 2
|
A new era for the Internet: The central pool of IPv4 Internet addresses has been depleted
February 03, 2011
Montevideo, February 2011 - The Latin American and Caribbean Internet Address Registry (LACNIC) announces that the central pool of IPv4 addresses administrated by the IANA (Internet Assigned Numbers Authority) has finally been depleted, triggering the unavoidable process of transitioning to the new Internet protocol. In accordance with the global policy agreed upon by the Internet community in every region, the last available IPv4 address blocks were allocated today, one to each of the five Regional Internet Registries (RIR) around the world.
In the region of Latin America and the Caribbean, the work of LACNIC and the participation of the community have generated adequate policies that ensure current protocol addresses will be available to guarantee a proper transition to the new version of the Internet protocol, called IPv6.
"This is a historic day in the life of the Internet, one we have been expecting for some time", said Raúl Echeberría, Executive Director of LACNIC. "IPv6 is the future of the Internet. IPv4 addresses from the ICANN central stock are now depleted. From now, we must limit ourselves to our regional stock ", he added.
IPv6 is the new generation of the Internet protocol and is essential for the Internet to continue to grow in the next decades.
The explosive growth of the Internet has generated a huge demand for available blocks of IP addresses – a unique number assigned to each device connected to a network – and this has forced the creation of a new protocol to allow the expansion of the World Wide Web.
Since its creation, LACNIC has provided information, trained experts and promoted actions with the aim that measures be adopted at public and private level to effectively adopt the IPv6 protocol. Current availability of IPv4 resources allows LACNIC to continue to work with the region's Internet service providers, governments, companies, and end users so that the new Internet protocol can be seamlessly adopted.
Every Internet stakeholder must now take concrete measures within their scope to enable the effective deployment of IPv6 in our region", concluded Echeberría.
LACNIC (www.lacnic.net) is the organization responsible for administrating Internet addresses in Latin America and the Caribbean and its mission is to promote Internet development and stability in the region.
|
<urn:uuid:ac21959e-758a-4e81-97b5-0993e3e7dcbf>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://lacnic.net/cgi-bin/lacnic/nav?stkey=5124289-426146525&lg=EN&page=/en/anuncios/2011-agotamiento-ipv4.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368698207393/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516095647-00011-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.916363
| 495
| 2.1875
| 2
|
Shaker Syndrome in Dogs
Generalized Tremor Syndrome in Dogs
Shaker syndrome is a disorder which causes a dog's entire body to shake. It is also known as idiopathic cerebellitis, which describes inflammation of the cerebellum (the part of the brain that is responsible for the coordination and regulation of voluntary muscular movement) for unknown reasons.
While dogs of any coat color can be affected, those with a white hair coat are over-represented in the medical literature. For example, Maltese and West Highland white terriers appear to be predisposed. In addition, both genders are affected by shaker syndrome, especially young to middle-aged dogs.
Symptoms and Types
Although a dog may be affected by the syndrome due to unknown reasons (idiopathic), it is most often associated with mild central nervous system disease.
You will need to provide a thorough history of your dog's physical and behavioral health leading up to the onset of symptoms. Your veterinarian will perform a complete physical exam on your dog, including standard laboratory work, such as a blood chemical profile, a complete blood count, a urinalysis and an electrolyte panel to rule out other diseases. A cerebrospinal fluid (fluid from the spinal cord) sample may also be taken by your veterinarian and sent to the laboratory for analysis of the nervous system.
Your doctor will use the process of differential diagnosis to rule out each of the more common causes until the correct disorder is settled upon and can be treated appropriately. Some other causes for the tremors can be anxiety/fear, seizures, and hypothermia.
Depending on how severe the tremors are, and your dog's overall condition, care will be given inpatient or outpatient. If your dog is very ill as the result of tremors, or if there is an underlying condition or infection, your dog will be hospitalized until its health stabilizes. The primary treatment for neurological shaker syndrome is the use of corticosteroids for reducing the inflammatory response in the body. Most dogs recover in a week although some rare patients never entirely recover. The steroids will be gradually reduced over the course of a few months until they are not being used anymore. Steroid treatment will be reinstated if symptoms recur, and in some cases, steroid treatment will need to be continued for a longer period and possible even the lifetime of the dog in order to maintain health.
Living and Management
Your veterinarian will schedule weekly evaluations for your dog for the first month after the initial treatment. Thereafter, your veterinarian will schedule monthly follow-up appointments with you for your pet until the corticosteroids are discontinued.
An in-depth examination of the properties of urine; used to determine the presence or absence of illness
The term for a type of medication that impacts immunity, metabolism, sexual characteristics, and other such elements of a living thing
Relating to a disease of unknown origin, which may or may not have arisen spontaneously
A body temperature that is too low
Loss of Balance (Unbalanced Gait) in Dogs
Ataxia is a condition relating to a sensory dysfunction that produces loss of coordination...
Head Pressing in Dogs
Head pressing is a condition characterized by the compulsive act of pressing the...
Latest In Dog Nutrition
What Are Lean Proteins and How They Can Help ...
Protein is an important component in your pet's food, but not all proteins are the...
How Your Overweight Pet Could Benefit from ...
Pet obesity has reached epidemic proportions. Fortunately, there are some things...
|
<urn:uuid:102b17e8-ef47-4dd3-80bd-28eaa0dde2b2>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/neurological/c_dg_shaker_syndrome?page=show
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368704132298/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516113532-00055-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.931763
| 729
| 3.203125
| 3
|
While media coverage of the case has been intense, there are several key questions that have yet to be answered about the case. Here are five of the most important:
1. What was the purported “conflict” that required the initial prosecutor to step down? On March 22 — after several weeks on the job — state attorney Norm Wolfinger stepped down from his role as prosecutor in the Trayvon Martin case. Wolfinger relinquished his post after meeting with Florida Gov. Rick Scott and Attorney General Pam Bondi. He said it was necessary for him to step aside to preserve “the integrity of this investigation,” adding he wanted to avoid “the appearance of a conflict of interest.” He did not explain why his continued involvement would damage the integrity of the case or explain the potential conflict he was seeking to avoid. Did anyone at the prosecutor’s office know Zimmerman or his family? [Orlando Sentinel]
2. Why did the prosecutor ignore the recommendations of the lead homicide investigator? ABC News reported that Chris Serino, the lead homicide investigator on the Trayvon Martin case, recommended that Zimmerman be charged with manslaughter on the night of the shooting. Serino filed an affidavit that night stating “he was unconvinced Zimmerman’s version of events.” As the lead homicide investigator, Serino was: 1. In the best position to evaluate Zimmerman’s credibility, and 2. Intimately familiar with Florida law. Why was he ignored? [ABC News]
3. Why did then-Police Chief Bill Lee make public statements directly contradicting the official recommendations of the police department? On the day the Sanford Police concluded their investigation and handed over the case to the prosecutor, then-Police Chief Bill Lee stated publicly that there was no “probable cause” to arrest or charge Zimmerman. (Lee has subsequently “temporarily” stepped down from his post.) But the Miami Herald reports that on the same day the Sanford Police formally requested that the prosecutor charge Zimmerman, something known as a “capias” request. [ThinkProgress]
4. Who leaked Trayvon Martin’s school records? As public outrage increased, Zimmerman’s sympathizers launched a smear campaign against Trayvon Martin. This included details of several occasions where Martin was suspended for minor infractions (defacing a locker, possessing an empty “marijuana baggie.”) None of the information seemed to have any particular relevance to the night Trayvon Martin was shot to death. Was this a ham-handed attempt by the police or the prosecutor to defend their lack of action against Zimmerman? The Sanford City Manager announced he would launch an independent investigation into the source of the leak. [Miami Herald; NBC12]
5. Why was Trayvon Martin’s body tagged as a John Doe? The Washington Post’s Jonathan Capehart notes a police report “that was completed at 3:07 a.m. on Feb. 27 lists Trayvon’s full name, city of birth, address and phone number.” But yet, Trayvon’s body was reportedly “tagged as a John Doe” and his father wasn’t informed of his death until after he filed a missing person report later on the 27th. Why weren’t Trayvon Martin’s parents contacted immediately after the police confirmed his identity? [Washington Post]
Special prosecutor Angela Corey has promised to release additional information about the case once she makes a decision about whether to charge Zimmerman, something that could happen at any time.
|
<urn:uuid:0fab0138-35f8-4184-b0ec-9a60b3e0c6d3>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://thinkprogress.org/justice/issue/?m=20120328&mobile=nc
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368705559639/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516115919-00012-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.969324
| 728
| 1.679688
| 2
|
Endangered birds produce sixth egg of season at zoo's off-site facility
California condors at the Oregon Zoo’s Jonsson Center for Wildlife Conservation are laying the groundwork for species recovery one egg at a time.
Six eggs have been laid so far during this year’s condor-breeding season, with perhaps a couple more still to come. The two most recent eggs arrived on Feb. 16 (laid by Ojai) and Feb. 18 (laid by Squapuni). The condors and their mates will sit on them for up to two weeks before keepers remove the eggs to determine whether they are fertile.
“We’re proud to be making a contribution to the California condor’s comeback,” said keeper Kelli Walker. “Each new egg is critical to the survival of this species.”
The fourth egg of the season arrived on Feb. 8 with a bit of drama. The parents, Mali (male) and No. 174, squabbled over the new egg as soon as it had been laid. Keepers quickly pulled the egg from the nest room to prevent any damage, replacing it with a dummy egg. According to condor keeper Kelli Walker, Mali had been harassing No. 174 before she laid the egg and continues to be somewhat aggressive toward her in the nest room. She said the birds will probably not be given a chick to rear this season, and they will likely be split as a breeding pair due to ongoing problems dating back to 2006.
Earlier the same day, Walker had pulled the season’s second egg to test its fertility and noticed what appeared to be a small hole in the egg’s shell. After treating the area with sterile water and a diluted antiseptic, Walker used a thin layer of white glue to cover it. Despite the defect, the egg did prove to be fertile and Walker is hopeful her repair will ensure a normal hatching. The parents, Timocho and Willie, are doing extremely well with incubation and egg-sitting duties, Walker noted.
Through a process called candling – which uses a bright light source behind the egg to show details through the shell – Walker has already determined the first four eggs of the season are fertile. These eggs are now in an incubator, and the condor parents are sitting on dummy eggs. When hatching begins, usually in 54 to 58 days, Walker switches the real eggs back, so that the chicks can hatch under their parents. The conservation center should see its first chick of the season toward the end of March.
The California condor is classified as a critically endangered species. In 1982, only 22 individuals remained in the wild. With the help of breeding programs like the Oregon Zoo’s, condor numbers now total around 390, counting those in programs and in the wild.
Thirty healthy chicks have hatched at the Jonsson Center since the program began in 2003. Around 20 Oregon Zoo-reared birds have gone out to field pens, with most released to the wild. Last year, three eggs laid by Oregon Zoo condors were placed in wild nests to hatch.
Condors are the largest land birds in North America with wingspans of up to 10 feet and an average weight of 18 to 25 pounds. They are highly intelligent and inquisitive, and they require a tremendous amount of parental investment in the wild.
Accumulated lead poisoning – a problem that plagues all raptors and scavengers – is the most severe obstacle to the California condor’s recovery. As the birds feed on carrion and other animal carcasses shot by hunters, they can unintentionally ingest lead from bullet fragments. Lead consumption causes paralysis of the digestive track and results in a slow death by starvation. Lead also causes severe neurologic problems, so the birds not only starve but suffer from impaired motor functions. For hunters who wish to reduce their impact on raptors, including the federally protected golden eagle, zoo officials recommend choosing non-lead ammunition.
The California condor had a long history in Oregon. Lewis and Clark saw the large birds as they traveled along the Columbia River. Local archaeologists have unearthed 9,000-year-old condor bones from Native American middens, and condors were a common motif for the designs of Oregon’s Wasco people, who lived along the Columbia River between The Dalles and Cascade Locks. The “Thunderbird” was considered a spiritual guide to the native peoples and is a key character in many myths.
The last condor seen in Oregon was near the town of Drain in 1904. The birds held out a little longer in California, but by 1987, the last condors were taken into captivity in an attempt to save the species. Biologists decided to place the remaining condors in a captive-breeding program. The California condor was one of the original animals included on the 1973 Endangered Species Act.
The Oregon Zoo’s condor recovery efforts take place at the Jonsson Center for Wildlife Conservation, located in rural Clackamas County on Metro-owned open land. The remoteness of the facility minimizes the exposure of young condors to people, increasing the chances for captive-hatched birds to survive and breed in the wild.
California condor captive-breeding programs are also operated at San Diego Zoo’s Wild Animal Park, the Los Angeles Zoo and the Peregrine Fund’s World Center for Birds of Prey in Idaho. The Oregon Zoo received the Wildlife Society’s conservation award in 2005 for “creating the nation’s fourth California condor breeding facility.”
The zoo is a service of Metro and is dedicated to its mission of inspiring the community to create a better future for wildlife. Committed to conservation, the zoo is currently working to save endangered California condors, Washington’s pygmy rabbits, Oregon silverspot and Taylor’s checkerspot butterflies, Western pond turtles, Oregon spotted frogs and Kincaid’s lupine. Other projects include studies on black rhinos, Asian elephants, polar bears and bats.
|
<urn:uuid:55d6b3a1-09c0-4bf4-a01a-471ddca613e8>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.oregonzoo.org/node/357/media
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368707435344/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516123035-00044-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.954895
| 1,267
| 2.625
| 3
|
Wildlife television presenting was once a man’s world. A documentary on baboon behaviour or ocelot extinction would call for a bearded naturalist like David Bellamy, or the cheery anthropomorphism of Johnny Morris. But now this territory is facing a climate change all of its own, as it is invaded by a new breed of presenter: feisty, intelligent, eco-aware – and female. Though a publicist for Sir David Attenborough assures Timesonline that he is “obviously not replaceable”, his grip on the title of king of the jungle may not be as firm as it once was.
Dr. Charlotte Uhlenbroek is one of them. Uhlenbroek’s big television break came in the late 1990s. “I’d spent months analysing chimp vocalisations in a soundproof studio back in Bristol,” she explains – work that revealed that chimp communication involves not just one type of call, as was previously thought, but several different long-distance calls. “The BBC heard there was a girl up the road who had been working out in Gombe, and asked if I wanted to go back to present a series called Dawn to Dusk, and that they’d pay me!” Presenting came naturally to the young primatologist. “I was talking about chimps that I knew incredibly well. I was just turning to the camera as if it was a friend. I felt like a conduit.” Her ability to decipher primate behaviour, her blue-chip zoological credentials and look of “an eco-friendly Lara Croft” meant she was soon fronting BBC2’s Chimpanzee Diary. Since than, she presented Jungle (2003) and Safari School (2007) and has written several books. Her latest book, Animal Life, is a “bang-up-to-date” look at animal behaviour, packed with research using the latest technology.
The Independent reported in an interview with Uhlenbroek:
I love Kenya and the whole of east Africa but Tanzania is my favourite because that’s my stomping ground. I worked in the forest for four years, I speak Swahili and I go back regularly so I’m very at home there. Tanzania has some of the best wildlife in the world and some beautiful wildlife parks, the best two being the Serengeti National Park and the Selous Game Reserve. Selous, in the south-west, is three times larger than the Serengeti and twice the size of Belgium. It was founded by the German colonial administration in 1905 and later expanded to include elephant migration routes. You really get a sense of wilderness in these reserves. As for the people, the Tanzanians are just some of the nicest I’ve ever come across. I worked really closely with the researchers there and they became my second family. They derive a lot of pleasure from spending time with people and families. When I worked in Gombe, I would periodically come back to England to write up some of my research. Then, when I returned, the Tanzanians would tell me off for being too abrupt. I’d say good morning to them and then launch into a series of instructions for the day about who should follow which chimp. They’d say, “Charlotte, slow down. We don’t live at that pace. How are you? How are your family?” In Gombe, you might spend half an hour talking to the staff about their goats and their family (though not necessarily in that order) before getting down to the day’s programme of work.
Intrigued by Tanzania and the Chimps in Gombe Stream National Park? Contact firstname.lastname@example.org for more information and advise if you are interested to see wildlife with reputable eco-tour companies and to feel personally connected with the animals when you get back.
|
<urn:uuid:bb43ccdb-a7cb-459f-b452-74aabb088ded>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.onseahouse.com/text/?tag=chimpanzee
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706499548/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516121459-00006-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.976462
| 828
| 1.632813
| 2
|
My kids love their yogurt. It’s one of the first foods we gave them as infants, and because it’s been around daily since they were young, it’s an easy snack. We add it to smoothies, pack it in lunch boxes, eat it for an after-school snack. Still, one of my favorite yogurt uses is as ice cream.
In the dead of summer, nothing quite compares to the silky smooth of a good frozen yogurt topped with the freshest berries and fruits summer has to offer.
Treating yogurt like dessert is one of my favorite mommy moments. I’ll freeze tubes of it or toss flavored Greek yogurt into our ice cream maker until it’s frozen like soft serve. The kids think it’s magic ice cream, and I know it’s just plain good. Plus, a bowl of ice cream is a great way to introduce new fruits and textures to small mouths.
Pairing new fruits like peach chunks or mangoes with a bowl of something familiar like frozen (or non-frozen) yogurt is a great way to get them to accept them without a huge fight. With the treat at center stage, it doesn’t become a battle over the new “scary” food, but rather a way to enjoy something different.
Making Frozen Yogurt
2 cups flavored Greek yogurt like Stonyfield YoKids Greek
2 cups plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup fruit preserves
Add yogurt to ice cream maker. Freeze as directed. Serve as soft serve immediately or transfer to freezer and freeze until firm.
Don’t miss the latest from Family Kitchen – Like Us on Facebook!
More on Family Kitchen:
10 Diet Foods that Will Make You Fat!
The Case for Grass-Fed, Organic Beef and Dairy: More than Pink Slime Avoidance
Why I Grocery Shop with My Kids (and Think You Should, Too)
|
<urn:uuid:d8fb3686-fc16-482d-b828-c1d95497a3ec>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://babble.com/best-recipes/using-frozen-yogurt-to-introduce-new-foods/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368696383156/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516092623-00044-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.924342
| 401
| 1.648438
| 2
|
By Qasim Nauman and Rebecca Conway
ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - A U.S. Congressional panel has frozen $700 million in aid to Pakistan until it gives assurances it is helping fight the spread of homemade bombs in the region, a move one Pakistani senator called unwise and likely to strain ties further.
Pakistan is one of the largest recipients of U.S. foreign aid and the cutback announced is only a small proportion of the billions in civil and military assistance it gets each year.
But it could presage even greater cuts.
Calls are growing in the United States to penalize Islamabad for failing to act against militant groups and, at worst, helping them, after the secret U.S. raid on a Pakistan garrison town in which al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was killed in May.
Salim Saifullah, chairman of Pakistan's Senate foreign relations committee, warned that relations, which are already at a low point, could worsen further following the decision by the U.S. House-Senate panel.
"I don't think this is a wise move. It could hurt ties. There should instead be efforts to increase cooperation. I don't see any good coming out of this," Saifullah told Reuters.
Homemade bombs, or improvised explosive devices (IEDs), are among militants' most effective weapons against U.S. and coalition troops in Afghanistan as they struggle to fight a resurgent Taliban insurgency.
Many are made using ammonium nitrate, a common fertilizer smuggled across the border from Pakistan. The freeze on U.S. aid was agreed as part of a defense bill that is expected to be passed this week.
The United States wants "assurances that Pakistan is countering improvised explosive devices in their country that are targeting our coalition forces," Representative Howard McKeon, a House Republican, told reporters.
The United States has allocated some $20 billion in security and economic aid to Pakistan since 2001, much of it in the form of reimbursements for assistance in fighting militants.
But U.S. lawmakers have expressed increasing frustration with Pakistan's efforts in the war.
There have been many proposals to make U.S. aid to Pakistan conditional on more cooperation in fighting militants such as the al Qaeda-linked Haqqani network, which Washington believes operates out of Pakistan and battles U.S. troops in Afghanistan.
But Pakistan's civilian leaders have in the past warned against aid cuts, saying it would only harden public opinion against the United States.
Pakistan says it is doing all it can to fight al Qaeda and the Taliban and has lost thousands of soldiers since it joined the U.S.-led war in 2001, some of them at the hands of coalition troops.
Islamabad has accused NATO of deliberately killing 24 Pakistani soldiers in an air strike near the Afghan border last month and shut down supplies for foreign troops in Afghanistan in anger.
The decision to freeze aid could prompt Pakistan to harden its stance towards Washington.
"I think the Pakistan side will understand the type of signal that is coming, which shows it's not only a question of aid," said former general and security analyst Talat Masood.
"The whole attitude of the U.S. and the relationship will be affected by these measures because they know Pakistan will not be in a position to control the smuggling."
Pakistan's foreign ministry spokesman, Abdul Basit, also suggested pressure from the United States would hurt ties, saying Islamabad believes "in cooperative approaches."
U.S. lawmakers said many Afghan bombs are made with fertilizer smuggled by militants across the border from Pakistan into Afghanistan.
"The vast majority of the material used to make improvised explosive devices used against U.S. forces in Afghanistan originates from two fertilizer factories inside Pakistan," Republican Senator John McCain said in the Senate last week.
A Congressional Research Service report in October said the Pakistani factories, owned by one of the country's biggest companies, Pakarab, have been producing over 300,000 metric tonnes of ammonium nitrate per year since 2004.
The United States has urged Pakistan to regulate the distribution of ammonium nitrate to Afghanistan strictly. So far, Pakistan has only produced draft legislation on the issue.
Analysts say U.S. demands will be tough to meet because of rampant corruption on both sides of the porous border that makes smuggling easy.
One businessman explained how easy it is to get through security.
"We pay a 1,200-rupee ($13) bribe to the Pakistani Frontiers Corps on the border for every car carrying fertilizer," said Kamal Khan in the border town of Chaman.
"Fertilizer is smuggled on trucks, pickup trucks, motorcycles, bicycles and donkey carts."
Pakistan's fragile economy is heavily dependent on agriculture, so cutting down on fertilizer output would hurt the sector.
The provision freezing $700 million in aid was agreed upon by leaders of the armed services committees from both parties in the House and Senate, including McCain. It is part of compromise legislation authorizing U.S. defense programs expected to be approved this week, McKeon said.
The bill would also require the Pentagon to deliver a strategy for improving the effectiveness of U.S. aid to Pakistan, he said.
(Additional reporting by Saeed Ali Achakzai in CHAMAN and Susan Cornwell in WASHINGTON; Writing by Michael Georgy; Editing by Paul Tait)
|
<urn:uuid:b6dff92c-dff1-4d04-b122-7e03fb45ffe4>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://wtaq.com/news/articles/2011/dec/13/lawmakers-freeze-700-million-to-pakistan-over-ieds/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368710006682/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516131326-00071-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.961378
| 1,109
| 1.710938
| 2
|
ananyo writes "Proteins are an enormous molecular achievement: chains of amino acids that fold spontaneously into a precise conformation, time after time, optimized by evolution for their particular function. Yet given the exponential number of contortions possible for any chain of amino acids, dictating a sequence that will fold into a predictable structure has been a daunting task. Now researchers report that they can do just that. By following a set of rules described in a paper published in Nature (abstract), a husband and wife team from David Baker's laboratory at the University of Washington in Seattle has designed five proteins from scratch that fold reliably into predicted conformations. The work could eventually allow scientists to custom design proteins with specific functions."
|
<urn:uuid:ad7d97c3-8608-4f93-8dbf-f88bcd103e62>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://science.slashdot.org/story/12/11/09/020241/proteins-made-to-order?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Slashdot%2FslashdotScience+%28Slashdot%3A+Science%29
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368697380733/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516094300-00058-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.956037
| 145
| 3.09375
| 3
|
About International Science & Engineering (ISE)
International Science and Engineering (ISE) serves as a focal point for international science and engineering activities both inside and outside NSF.
ISE promotes the development of an integrated, Foundation-wide international strategy, and manages international programs that are innovative, catalytic, and responsive to a broad range of NSF interests.
Specifically, ISE supports programs to expand and enhance leading-edge international research and education opportunities for U.S. scientists and engineers, especially at the early career stage. It works to build and strengthen effective institutional partnerships throughout the global science and engineering research and education community, and it supports international collaborations in NSF's priority research areas.
The Office carries out its functions through close partnership with the NSF Directorates and through its own program activities. ISE is housed within the Office of the NSF Director since its role is Foundation-wide.
ISE encourages funding applicants to include an international component in proposals submitted to the appropriate research directorate.
To identify ISE staff assignments for specific countries, see...
Staff by Country page.
A vision statement for ISE can be found at...
A tri-fold brochure describing ISE activites and
contact information is available at
General questions about ISE may be directed to firstname.lastname@example.org
|
<urn:uuid:29d58807-c76b-44c6-9e17-5f319d865779>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.nsf.gov/od/iia/ise/about.jsp
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368705559639/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516115919-00052-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.902518
| 275
| 1.648438
| 2
|
The subject of accountability has indisputably come to the fore in the field of public administration. In many quarters, accountability has come to mean little more than performance measurement, and that description is tightly linked to that current favorite of consultants, "results driven management." Results driven management brings together performance measurement and target setting in the name of accountability.
In the good hope that words and ideas matter, let me suggest an alternative. I propose "vulgar accountability." As the Oxford English Dictionary would have it, vulgar is "commonly current or prevalent, generally or widely disseminated, as a matter of knowledge, assertion, or opinion." Vulgar accountability, then, is the accountability of the ordinary, generally understood, or widely accepted.
It is the burden of my argument that public administration conceives of accountability that places exaggerated expectations on managers, that assumes an unlikely blossoming of rationality, and that is too often unrealistic about the capacity of agencies to manage wicked problems. At its core, bringing measures of performance to bear on matters of accountability is clearly a good idea. So how can we make modern applications of accountability viable? The answer is vulgar accountability.
What are the qualities and characteristics of vulgar accountability?
First, in the arcane language of performance measurement, there are important distinctions between agency outputs and outcomes. For example, the difference between measuring how many women of a certain age receive mammograms and how many women of a certain age have breast cancer is one of output vs. outcome. Accountability purists insist that the sole focus of performance measurement should be on outcomes -- the percentage of women of a certain age with breast cancer. Even though there is a demonstrable relationship between having mammograms and detecting breast cancer, can agencies charged with funding mammogram programs reasonably be held accountable for the percentage of women of a certain age with breast cancer? Given what we know about this connection, the answer is vulgar accountability, holding agencies accountable for their output.
Second, performance outputs are the lingua franca of public agencies -- it is what they do. Certainly, agencies should be held accountable for producing the greatest possible output with the resources available, and it is reasonable to hope that agency outputs will favorably influence social and economic circumstances. Public administrators catch criminals; put out fires and even try to prevent them; teach children; supply safe water; fight battles; distribute Social Security checks; and carry out a thousand other activities -- all outputs. That is what public agencies do, and they should be held accountable.
Third, all the evidence shows that when there are attempts to hold agencies accountable for social or economic outcomes that are beyond their control, they will fudge the data, game the system and in other ways resist being held unreasonably accountable. Accountability purists insist that holding agencies accountable only for their outputs is "setting the bar too low." But it is vulgar accountability that actually works.
Fourth, attaching targets to performance measurement in the name of accountability can, and usually does, lead to mischief.
Fifth, vulgar accountability is honest about trade-offs. Does the emphasis on reading and mathematics in the testing regimes called for in the No Child Left Behind Act diminish the resources available for teaching the humanities, the social sciences or physical education? Did the "faster and cheaper" mantra at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration contribute to the Columbia accident? In vulgar accountability, the answer is yes to these and other obvious questions about trade-offs.
To sum up, vulgar accountability stands in praise of the measurement of agency outputs and reasonable attempts to link outputs to social and economic outcomes. Vulgar accountability avoids the application of targets to performance measurement, following the wisdom of Edwards Deming who argued, in his total quality management approach, that if managers work on constantly improving processes, improved performance takes care of itself. Finally, vulgar accountability insists on honesty about trade-offs.
The 17th-century British philosopher and poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge had it right when he wrote that "every reform, however necessary, will, by weak minds, be carried to an excess, which itself will need reforming." Accountability has been a needed reform, but it is being carried to an excess which now requires reform. Vulgar accountability is that reform. Vulgar accountability may not seem as high a goal as pure accountability, but remember, it was Voltaire who wisely observed that "the best is the enemy of the good." How wonderfully vulgar.
You may use or reference this story with attribution and a link to
|
<urn:uuid:eae7626c-a8e5-4294-8f8e-6b268996b823>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.governing.com/columns/mgmt-insights/Vulgar-Accountability.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368697974692/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516095254-00021-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.942553
| 908
| 2.359375
| 2
|
Since writing John T. Bennett - 41st Georgia Infantry last week, I've learned a little more about John. I spent some time poking around in Ancestry's Civil War records and found several record groups that I need to explore further but the one that gave me the most additional information about John Bennett was the 1907 Alabama Census of Confederate Soldiers.
John lived in Heard County, Georgia when he enlisted in Company I, 41st Georgia Infantry but after the war he lived in Randolph, Chambers and Morgan Counties in Alabama. In 1907 he was living in Morgan County and this Census of Confederate Soldiers record contains some information I have not seen anywhere else.
First off, he is listed in this census as John F. Bennett but I have no doubts that this is my John T. Bennett. The birth date of 7 Feb 1831 listed here is the same birth date that is on John T.'s headstone. Other records indicate John T. was born in South Carolina. John T. moved to Morgan County, Alabama with his daughter, Mollie Bennett Hester, and her family sometime between 1900 and 1910. They lived near the the Morgan and Cullman County line. Baileton [Baileyton] listed as his Post Office address is in Cullman County, about 4 miles from the Morgan County line.
This records gives two separate enlistments for John. I have copies of his service record for the second enlistment but was unaware of the first one. According to this, he enlisted on 1 Nov 1861 at Savannah, Georgia. Considering that John was living on the opposite side of Georgia in Heard County (bordering the Alabama line) at that time, that seems a little odd to me but "Herd Co" is listed in the space that should have been Company and Regiment. I have not been able to find his service record for this enlistment.
The most exciting thing I learned from this record is that John was born in the Edgefield District of South Carolina. This is a completely new location for the Bennett family! The U.S. Census lists John's father, Lewis Bennett, in Darlington County, South Carolina in 1830 and Troup County, Georgia in 1840. Later census records show that John and some of his siblings were born in South Carolina so I was working under assumption that they were born in Darlington County before the family moved to Troup County. (In my defense, that theory is just in research notes and their birth places are listed simply as South Carolina.)
This is a very timely find since I'm planning a stop at the South Carolina Department of Archives and History for some Bennett research on my way to NGS in Charleston next month. Now I have another location to check!
John T. Bennett was my 2nd great-grandfather.
|
<urn:uuid:8092168e-71ad-4743-89bd-43cc9dea9eb9>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://lfmccauley.blogspot.com/2011/04/more-about-john-t-bennett.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368704392896/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516113952-00016-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.98313
| 566
| 1.875
| 2
|
South Orange, NJ
Sunday, September 02, 2012
By Alan Caruba
I keep hearing about "likeability" and how it influences presidential campaigns. Well, obviously, a candidate or an incumbent needs to be liked, but in the end it is his policies, his vision for the nation that matters.
President Obama has high likeability ratings, but just being likeable is not going to save him from defeat—possibly a defeat on the scale of Jimmy Carter who, though liked, was deemed a failure when it came to the economy and his tendency to blame the American people for his problems. He had come into office on a wave of disgust with the first and only President to resign, Richard M. Nixon, and his likeable replacement, Gerald Ford, paid the price of pardoning him. He needed to be pardoned. America does not send its presidents to jail.
Few would suggest that Nixon was "liked." Formerly the Vice President under Ike Eisenhower, he too had come into office following the public distaste for Lyndon Johnson's conduct of the Vietnam War, promising that he had a plan to end it. That "plan" would take the nation into his second term before it was fulfilled. People noticed, but what they really noticed was a colossal failure of judgment called Watergate. Known throughout much of his political career as "Tricky Dickie", Nixon had as many detractors as supporters.
Indeed, the first likeable President I recall was Dwight Eisenhower, a hero of World War Two who ran on the Republican ticket with the slogan "I like Ike." He served two terms that don't get enough credit for any number of accomplishments
After Ike's second term he would turn the White House over to one of the most likeable candidates of the modern era, John F. Kennedy. Young, handsome, with a beautiful wife, Jackie, JFK gained immortality via assassination, but it should also be remembered the U.S. suffered humiliation with the Bay of Pigs debacle and got its respect back when he confronted the Soviet Union during the Cuban Missile Crisis that forced Krushchev to back off.
Lyndon Baines Johnson was likeable enough to win a full term for himself against an anti-war candidate, George McGovern, and disliked enough to conclude he should not run for re-election. Nixon replaced him.
Without doubt, Ronald Reagan was likeable. A former movie star and Governor of California, it was the force of his ideas, solidly conservative, anti-communist, and indefatigably optimist about America's exceptionalism, Reagan joined the pantheon of Presidents to become an icon for his success in office. His Vice President, George H. W. Bush would succeed him. Bush41 was likeable, too, and despite a successful and mercifully short war to force Saddam Hussein out of Kuwait, he fell out of favor due to the economy. Ironically, Bush41 had been raised to not toot his own horn.
Bill Clinton was very likeable, to the point where his moral failures have been forgiven, but so is the fact that his initial performance in office was such that the Republicans returned to power in Congress after forty years in the wilderness. Their programs and his good sense to track to the center and adopt them served him well. He is so liked that Barack Obama has had to call him out of retirement to nominate him for a second term in the Democratic Party convention.
People forget how liked George W. Bush was, especially after 9/11. It is notable that the nation has not suffered a comparable attack since 2001. After wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, however, Americans grew understandably weary of taking casualties without any discernable results.
Then there is Barack Hussein Obama. He was anti-war and he is still in Afghanistan, having increased the number of troops we still have there. Americans are said to give him high points for likeability, but his performance in office has been dismal and even frightening. He increased the nation's debt more in just under four years than the amount of every President that preceded him. Unemployment increased to the high levels not seen since the Great Depression. While he "inherited" the financial crisis that began in 2008, we tend to forget that he campaigned hard to become President.
Obama's "hope and change" has soured, his judgment evokes scorn, and his behavior in office during a time of crisis eats away at his "likeability" despite the polls. No one wants to tell a pollster they don't like him for fear of being deemed "a racist." The election of the first black President was the nation's triumph over a past marked by a Civil War to end slavery, but his behavior in office has included too many games of golf in hard times, too many ostentatious and expensive vacations for himself and his wife, and too much partisanship that left the government in gridlock.
Mitt Romney got it right when he said, "You know there's something wrong with the kind of job he's done as President when the best feeling you had was the day you voted for him."
Because of the incessant repetition about Romney's likeability or alleged lack of it, one can be forgiven for forgetting that this is the man who enough people liked over the course of the many primary elections to select him as the Republican candidate for President.
Despite the support of an obscenely obeisant mainstream media, Obama's likeability has been draining away under the weight of the present reality of high unemployment, high prices, a failed stimulus, a lagging housing sector, the forced imposition of Obamacare, and a barrage of negative campaign advertisements that offend the good sense of voters.
As Marco Rubio said, "Our problem with President Obama isn't that he is a bad person. Our problem is that he's a bad President."
South Orange, NJ
|
<urn:uuid:86f33253-d993-4407-b28c-97be544294b4>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.expertclick.com/NRWire/Releasedetails.aspx?id=41589
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368707435344/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516123035-00037-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.988635
| 1,194
| 2.015625
| 2
|
Go go go!
Google Go celebrates third birthday
own programming language, Go, turned three
years old over the weekend. While the young language has seen
some up and downs, it’s met mild success - at least within Google,
who use it to serve Chrome downloads, scale YouTube’s MySQL and the
occasional homepage doodle.
In early 2010, Go was awarded TIOBE’s ‘Programming Language Of The Year Award’ for capturing 1.25% of the market in just two months; but its progress has stalled, and it now sits below Groovy in TIOBE’s language index, outside of the top 50.
The team write that they consider Go’s biggest achievement to be the release of version 1. “People who write Go 1 programs can now be confident that their programs will continue to compile and run without change, in many environments, on a time scale of years,” they said. “As part of the Go 1 launch we spent months cleaning up the language and libraries to make it something that will age well.”
One of the biggest developments for the language has also been integration into Google App Engine in July 2011, placing it alongside Java and Python on Google’s own cloud offerings. While it’s expected for Google to cross-promote products in such a way, it does show some confidence in the future of the language.
However, being relatively young, Go also faced the issue of obscurity. Last month, a game funded through Kickstarter was left high and dry after its lead programmers - both working in Go - abandoned the project, leaving the remaining two staff struggling to find (and pay) replacements. However, the story appears to be ending happily, with around thirty programmers offering help to the newly open-sourced game.
2013 should see the release of the next stable version of Go, 1.1, which will mostly consist of under-the-hood improvements. However, the team’s biggest challenge is expanding the Go crowd to beyond Google (and ex-Google) staff.
|
<urn:uuid:d9dcec20-5a77-42f6-874a-83495cd4b8ea>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://jaxenter.com/google-go-celebrates-third-birthday-45348.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368704392896/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516113952-00009-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.959213
| 438
| 1.578125
| 2
|
|Fort Calendar||Fort Blogs||
Fort Reid (1840-1849) - Established 7 Jul 1840 during the Second Seminole War by Ltc. William S. Harney. Named after Robert R. Reid, fourth Territorial Governor of Florida. Abandoned in 1849. Also known as Fort Read and Fort Reed.
Fort Reid History
Established 7 Jul 1840 by Ltc. William S. Harney and garrisoned by Capt. George A.H. Blake, and companies A, B, F, and K, 2nd U.S. Dragoons. This post was about 1.5 miles south of Fort Mellon and served as an alternate garrison for troops at that post. Apparently abandoned by U.S. troops in 1842 but occupied on and off by area settlers until it was re-garrisoned 4 Nov 1849 by Company D, 1st U.S. Artillery. The post was finally abandoned 17 Dec 1849.
Location: Map point is marker location. Speer Grove Park, Sanford, Seminole County, Florida.
Maps & Images Lat: 28.79500 Long: -81.25651
- Roberts, Robert B., Encyclopedia of Historic Forts: The Military, Pioneer, and Trading Posts of the United States, Macmillan, New York, 1988, 10th printing, ISBN 0-02-926880-X, page 199-200
Visited: 10 Feb 2010
Fort Reid Picture Gallery
Click on the picture to see a larger version. Contribute additional pictures - the more the better!
|
<urn:uuid:7f148776-ee44-41bf-8dd0-7a76ccb189e7>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://fortwiki.com/Fort_Reid
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368696382584/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516092622-00014-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.91476
| 326
| 2.890625
| 3
|
Wayfaringtree Viburnum is often used as a large informal hedge or as a non-thorny barrier shrub. In either case, it becomes leggy with age, but has a vigorous growth rate once it is established.
Website Administrator: Dr. Tim Rhodus
Department of Horticulture and Crop Science
2002 Ohio State University
|
<urn:uuid:e7495417-0768-479a-9bff-c65be81316fc>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://plantfacts.osu.edu/plant/record_detail.lasso?-database=p_dictionary1&-table=itemlist&-keyfield=id&-keyvalue=2789&-search
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368698207393/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516095647-00030-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.934511
| 73
| 1.921875
| 2
|
Echelon with a military regiment to prepare technical personnel to protect newly installed power
data for: air force army anti-aircraft fire
WASHINGTON Su Qiwei reported: an artillery regiment in the Beijing Military Region, the organization has the equipment and equipment protection at the drill, the “red” vehicle was “blue” fire attacks “lying nest.” After receiving the order, the “Reds” immediately sent officers to go to maintenance. Sergeant with the previous top-notch team consisting of maintenance play a leading role in training different is that this battle is all purely for young faces. This is a real focus on the mission requirements, equipment and technical personnel with new echelon of one of them.
the second half of last year, the regiment taking part in an exercise in parent organizations, a communication vehicle was the ‘enemy’ bombing, not the normal transfer command. By this time, top-notch service, Sergeant Zhao Zhiyuan was on leave. So he had never been to the temporary deployment of the training ground of a corporal to rush into battle, fiddle with 2 hours, no fix communications vehicles, thereby forfeiting fighters, leading to loss exercise.
top off a repair, why the entire exercise led to defeat? Party “members” in the survey found that some of the battalion and company used to let top into action, tipping, training, contest, etc. are preferred experienced old non-commissioned officers, resulting in the talent pool out of line interrupted. To this end, the regiment re-adjustment of equipment at the training plan, integration of existing human resources, in accordance with the principles of echelon, timely training top talent shortage of new equipment added to the job, good job Bangdai, strengthen the technical personnel of the ranks.
|
<urn:uuid:423ef2fb-1561-475f-9269-02e33a94d486>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.9abc.net/index.php/archives/26695
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368707435344/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516123035-00014-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.956449
| 379
| 1.523438
| 2
|
The most common problem in communication is not listening! A Chinese symbol for "To Listen" is shown below. It is wise beyond the art. The left side of the symbol represents an ear. The right side represents the individual- you. The eyes and undivided attention are next and finally there is the heart.
This symbol tells us that to listen we must use both ears, watch and maintain eye contact, give undivided attention, and finally be empathetic. In other words we must engage in active listening!
Active listening is a skill taught to teachers and police officers, counselors, ministers, rabbis and priests. It is a skill we would all do better having learned, practiced. To begin being an active listener we must first understand the four rules of active listening.
The Four Rules of Active Listening
1. Seek to understand before you seek to be understood.
2. Be non judgmental
3. Give your undivided attention to the speaker
4. Use silence effectively
Let's explore the rules of active listening.
1. Seek to understand before seeking to be understood. When we seek to understand rather than be understood, our modus operandi will be to listen. Often, when we enter into conversation, our goal is to be better understood. We can be better understood, if first we better understand. With age, maturity, and experience comes silence. It is most often a wise person who says little or nothing at the beginning of a conversation or listening experience. We need to remember to collect information before we disseminate it. We need to know it before we say it.
2. Be non judgmental. Empathetic listening demonstrates a high degree of emotional intelligence. There is a reason kids do not usually speak with adults about drugs, sex, and rock and roll. The kids already know what the adults have to say. Once a child knows your judgment, there is little reason to ask the question unless the intention is to argue. If we would speak to anyone about issues important to them, we need to avoid sharing our judgment until we have learned their judgment. This empathetic behavior is an indicator of emotional intelligence as described in Chapter 3.
3. Give your undivided attention to the speaker. The Chinese symbol that we used to describe listening used the eyes and undivided attention. Absolutely important is dedicating your undivided attention to the speaker if you are to succeed as an active listener. Eye contact is less important. In most listening situations people use eye contact to affirm listening. The speaker maintains eye contact to be sure the listener or listeners are paying attention. From their body language the speaker can tell if he is speaking too softly or loudly, too quickly or slowly, or if the vocabulary or the language is inappropriate. Listeners can also send messages to speakers using body language. Applause is the reason many performers perform. Positive feedback is an endorphin releaser for the giver and the sender. Eye contact can be a form of positive feedback. BUT, eye contact can also be a form of aggression, of trying to show dominance, of forcing submissive behavior. All primates use eye contact to varying degrees. We should be careful how we use it when listening. If we want to provide undivided attention to a child, a better way to show your attention is to do a "walk and talk" as we discussed in Chapter 2. Walk and talk is such a successful strategy that works well for active listening!
4. Use silence effectively. The final rule for active or empathic listening is to effectively use silence. To often a truly revealing moment is never brought to fruition because of an untimely interruption. Some of the finest police interrogators, counselors, teachers and parents learn more by maintaining silence than by asking questions. As an active or empathic listener, silence is a very valuable tool. DO NOT interrupt unless absolutely necessary. Silence can be painful. It is more painful for a speaker than for a listener. If someone is speaking, and we want them to continue talking, we do not interrupt. Rather, we do provide positive feedback using body language, eye contact, and non word sounds like "umh, huh". Silence is indeed golden especially when used to gather information as a listener.
|
<urn:uuid:1f62607e-cc1f-463e-a49e-a5cdb44134c9>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.state.gov/m/a/os/65759.htm
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368700958435/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516104238-00074-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.93302
| 871
| 3.515625
| 4
|
Q: I am teaching a cooking class for 3rd and 4th graders and I am at a loss for recipes. Preferably, I'd like to make healthy recipes which do not contain peanut products. The class is only an hour, so quick recipes would be fantastic! Thanks!
Sent by Caitlin
Editor: If you have access to a stove, a quick soup might be a good choice. Each student could have a different task: opening the cans of beans, pulling apart kale leaves, stirring the onions as they cook. If letting them chop vegetables isn't an option, you could pre-prepare the vegetables needing slicing. Pasta and a quick sauce (or even real mac n' cheese!) is another kid-friendly idea.
• Quick and Easy Black Bean Soup • Quick Lunch Pasta with Greens, Mushrooms, and Meats • Easy Homemade Macaroni and Cheese
Readers, what other ideas do you have?
(Image: Sara Kate Gillingham-Ryan )
|
<urn:uuid:7db94f17-0834-46b3-a394-90668ffd718d>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.thekitchn.com/good-recipes-to-make-with-3rd-4th-gradersrecipe-questions-169119
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706153698/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516120913-00075-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.932696
| 207
| 2.296875
| 2
|
Canada Bands Together Against Northern TB Scourge
Nunavut’s tuberculosis rate is 62 times the national average, according to CBC News, with more than 100 active cases diagnosed in 2010, up from 58 in 2008.
This record-breaking year had territorial, federal and health officials calling TB the territory’s most pressing public health issue, and on Jan. 13 the federal government stepped in and announced $800,000 for a public outreach, education, diagnosis and treatment program.
“It’s an important public health issue that’s been lingering for far too long,” said Tagak Curley, Nunavut’s health minister, according to the Nunatsiaq News.
The Nunavut program is called Taima TB, which means “Stop TB” in Inuktitut, and is a partnership of several entities, including the territorial minister of health, Inuit leaders and people from academia and the community.
“By providing financial support to the Taima TB project, we are partnering with the people of Nunavut to combat this deadly but curable disease,” said Health Minister Leona Aglukkaq at the press briefing in Iqaluit.
Though part of a push to address respiratory illness in Canadians in general, the initiative focuses on those at high risk of developing the disease. First Nations people in general have a higher rate than the rest of the population, but northern climes have the worse statistics in the nation.
Under the program, health workers will go door to door to diagnose and treat latent TB infections, which show no symptoms and aren’t yet contagious, and advise people on how to manage the disease. They will also educate the public via meetings, focus groups and social media to help people prevent the potentially fatal infection.
Partners include Dr. Gonzalo Alvarez, a consultant respirologist for Nunavut who is affiliated with the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute at the University of Ottawa; Nunavut Tunngavik Inc., the land-claims advocacy arm of the Inuit; Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, the national advocacy organization; the National Aboriginal Health Organization, and the New Brunswick Lung Association.
“The Government of Canada’s financial support for Taima TB represents an important step forward for Nunavut in our continuing efforts to address the serious problem of TB and to achieve improved health care and quality of life for our citizens,” stated Nunavut Health and Social Services Minister Tagak Curley in a press release.
Since 2006, the Public Health Agency of Canada has developed the National Lung Health Framework, a “strategic action plan” whose goal is to improve respiratory health. The government also set aside $10 million to combat respiratory diseases in Canadians. Taima TB is part of that effort, the CBC said.
|
<urn:uuid:afc44610-f4e2-422b-8b76-f9fff4db7cfd>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/article/canada-bands-together-against-northern-tb-scourge-12472
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368704132298/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516113532-00012-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.936612
| 598
| 2.703125
| 3
|
Guess what? Drugstore pregnancy tests aren’t the only way to know if you’re pregnant (and they’re not always right, anyway…). Our BFFs at ivillage.com have a list of the 10 most common signs you’re expecting.
Some women are sure they are pregnant from the moment of conception. For others, it may take five positive pregnancy tests, as well as a host of symptoms, until they are really sure. If you’re thinking you just may be pregnant, we hope our list of the most common signs of pregnancy will help you find the answer you are hoping for!
Remember, all women are different so you may not experience all (or any) of these 10 common signs of pregnancy:
1. Tender breasts/nipples: If you are pregnant you will notice that your breasts and nipples become tender around three weeks after conception (when your period is about one week late). They may also feel swollen — similar to the way they feel when you expect your period.
2. Slight spotting or cramping: If you are pregnant, light pink spotting can occur at the time of implantation — when the embryo attaches to the lining of the uterus. This happens around eight to 10 days following ovulation, a bit earlier than your menstrual period is due. You can usually differentiate implantation bleeding from your menstrual period if it occurs a bit earlier than expected, if it is scanty, spotty, pinkish (and not red and heavy like a period), and does not follow the normal pattern of a period (light, progressing to heavy and then again to light). Cramping can also be common in early pregnancy. Until the uterus assumes its mid-position and becomes better supported by the bony pelvis in the second trimester, it is prone to menstrual-like cramping. Contractions of the uterus occur regularly, increasing with exercise, orgasm and even simple changes in position.
To read more, go to ivillage.com.
Tell us: Did you know you were expecting before you even took a pregnancy test?
|
<urn:uuid:40a0295b-0e30-4aec-8a89-ee36be805cc2>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://hollywoodlife.com/2010/10/25/pregnancy-signs-expecting-pregnant/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368696381249/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516092621-00047-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.947492
| 433
| 2.21875
| 2
|
The fact that the state of worker’s trade unions around the globe is dire and dismal is a serious matter. In many cases, labor unions are being dismantled or destroyed outright. Last week’s results from the recall election in Wisconsin USA - Republican Governor Scott Walker’s win to keep his seat - was just another nail in the coffin for a healthy and unionized workforce in America.
This blow to workers in Wisconsin, who now have a diminished membership and very few rights left (as far as collective bargaining and the right to strike goes), hit me hard and on a personal level. My very first job was a unionized one, working as an apprentice meat packer in a frozen food factory back in the early 1970’s. That is when unions still had teeth and were aggressively fighting for fair wages, better working conditions, and essential benefits for worker retirement and health. Jimmy Hoffa was still alive and kicking, and the number of unionized workers in America stood at about 30 percent of the workforce (down from 35 percent in the 1950’s). Today, that figure is less than 12 percent across the board.
Depending on your political stance, you may or may not agree that worker’s unions are essential or even relevant in today’s modern age of global capitalism and market forces, which seek to squeeze every dollar of profit possible from any business venture, regardless of the toll it takes on the worker. Fiscal conservatives in America had decided long ago that labor unions, hotbeds of left-leaning democratic thinking and political funding, had to go. And now that Wisconsin has fallen – a testing ground for conservative thinking – the rest of the country is sure to follow.
As a younger man in the workforce, I was not so naïve to think that belonging to my ‘Local 101’ was going to be a solution to all my work-related problems. It was easy to see that the ‘Meatpacker’s Union’ that I belonged to was mobbed up and corrupt. Union dues constituted a large chunk of my paycheck, and it was clear that workers were just pawns in a larger game of power and control over local and state politics. But the choice during those times was to pick between the lesser of the two evils: to either have some say with employers, or to have no or little say when it came to getting your fair share of fruit from one’s labor.
But then I got a better job, one where the hacking of dead meat was not required, and I could go home every day with clean hands and not even a crinkle on my suit and tie. I had worked my way through college and joined IBM, where the cubicles were neat and tidy and you could work all day or night and hardly break a sweat. All the benefits were there (at some level), and today I rest retired knowing that some pittance of a pension is coming my way each month.
At least I got something, even if it is just a pittance.
It is clear to me that being unionized would have given my fellow ‘IBM’ers’ and me a better deal in the end. But through the 1980’s and 1990’s, the logic went something like this - either work for a company or organization that allowed unions, and then trust your union leaders to negotiate the best for you or work for a company that bans unionization in return for the promise that the company would take care of your needs. There was no middle ground, no other real alternative, you were either unionized or not.
And now, at least in America, the choice is ‘not unionized’ for 93 percent of private sector workers. The only folks still left unionized are government workers, where about 35 percent have some form of organized representation in the workplace, but 65 percent don’t. Yet, government employees have very limited collective bargaining rights, with right-to-strike banned in most cases, and influence on politicians on the wane as membership drops to record lows.
Depending on your political stance, you may or may not agree that worker’s unions are essential or even relevant in today’s modern age.
For Nepal, I think this trend of the unions in America is foretelling, regardless of my limited experience here, evident from the heat of many a burning tyres in the street and newspaper stories about the many labor battles with businesses, as well as the campaign to ratify (in full) ILO Convention 87. Workers are still struggling here, restricted within the confines of awful choices and limited support from the government, and in the middle of a global economic meltdown.
In short, the global floor of social protection (as described by the ITUC, which represents 175 million workers around the world) is disintegrating plank by plank. From the Eurozone to Kathmandu to Wisconsin, austerity measures now seem to outweigh the need to stimulate growth in employment.
Here, I pose a few questions. Is there a better way, a rethink on the way we have chosen to organize as trade unions? Are there really only two choices in this day and age of internet access, iPads and smartphones? Shouldn’t we - as a collective global citizenry - be thinking of remodeling the ways of business and employment? In other words, can’t we come up with something better than the institutions we have now, and that have clearly failed us?
Isn’t it time for a more global human (and humane) union movement? The answers lie within each one of us.
The author is a quirky American expat, now retired and living happily with his Nepali family, holding high hopes for the future of workers world-wide
|
<urn:uuid:e2072ef1-82d6-4f24-8e0b-3d1ac16b3f8e>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.myrepublica.com/portal/index.php?action=news_details&news_id=36790
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368699881956/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516102441-00057-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.975092
| 1,183
| 1.796875
| 2
|
International Environmental Law courses now available in Spanish
The International Law Programme is implementing the Spanish version of its series of e-courses on International Environmental Law (IEL) due to the high demand from Latin American Countries for this kind of training.
Latin America comprises several countries with a wide variety of cultures that share a great deal in common and must prepare themselves for new environmental challenges. Today, many Latin American countries have to implement numerous Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) at national levels with limited financial, technical and particularly human resources capabilities.
UNITAR contributes to train individuals who will participate, in different ways, in making and applying environmental rules in their countries.
Therefore, UNITAR offers the following e-courses in Spanish:
Course 1: Introduction to International Environmental Law
Course 2: International Environmental Governance
Course 3: Techniques and Procedures in IEL
Course 4: International Environmental Negotiations.
The e-courses on IEL will allow participants to combine learning and work and to benefit from high-quality courses in IEL at a moderate cost. The courses are given by renowned regional experts and professors in international law who will guide participants in their learning process and answer their questions.
Furthermore, thanks to UNITAR’s Virtual Learning Platform, participants have full access to course and benefit from the flexibility of being trained at their own pace. This Platform also provides participants to share their experience and knowledge with fellow trainees from different backgrounds and countries of the Latin American region.
18 Jun 2013
13 Jun 2013
12 Jun 2013
- 1 of 160
|
<urn:uuid:3c240c1f-2447-44c4-9f05-90d08eaeace9>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.unitar.org/international-environmental-law-courses-now-available-spanish-0
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368710006682/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516131326-00006-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.918491
| 325
| 2.09375
| 2
|
Thanks for all your help.
I'm sure I over complicated this script, but it helps me to understand the functions. As I said before, when I figure things out, I rewrite the sections.
So, originally I used RAND with a range between 108832 and 642096. This is the lowest id number to the highest. Not every number in this range is an active employee however.
This makes it fun, because as a lottery game, there is a smaller range to select from, but also a lot of additional inactive numbers that can pop up.
As a raffle game, I can change some of the code so it just picks a random number from the employee id array instead. That way there is a guaranteed winner.
Why did I complicate the code with switches and implodes and such?
Well... I found an old php lottery game script that is automated with a timer and displays the winning numbers as balls.... which is just a gif image obviously.
The 6 digit id numbers are a single number, versus 6 individual numbers, so they won't display properly in the ball image.
As 6 separate numbers, they can be displayed in the ball images, and as a single 6 digit number, I can them check the id array for a match.
Again, I'm sure I've over complicated this since I'm just learning php, and there is probably a WAY simpler way to do it, but I'm enjoying figuring out how it all works.
|
<urn:uuid:c48c2bae-42ba-4e84-a241-e510e43470d9>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.phphelp.com/forum/index.php?topic=17172.msg58244
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368698924319/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516100844-00036-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.953821
| 302
| 2.140625
| 2
|
M.A. in Community Arts candidate uses more than 4000 prints to raise awareness on the issue
Posted 07.12.11 by MICA communications
- Community Arts
WHAT: M.A. in Community Arts (MACA) candidate Shana R. Goetsch will exhibit her visual thesis work, 3Tributaries, through intaglio prints and plates in MACA's thesis exhibition from Monday, July 18-Saturday, July 30.
Goetsch uses Baltimore's row house imagery to create more than 4,000 individual prints on paper, which correspond to the number of domestic violence cases heard in one year within the Baltimore City Circuit Court.
Goetsch currently serves as AmeriCorps artist-in-residence at the House of Ruth Maryland in Baltimore, one of the nation's leading domestic violence centers. She has been working with adults and youth within the shelter, and facilitating domestic violence related art workshops in other Baltimore City communities, including Better Waverly's 901 Arts and Jubilee Arts.
A survivor of domestic violence herself, Goetsch advocates for others by raising awareness of the issues through her own personal experience as well as her artmaking practice. "Even though these row houses are seemingly silent and static buildings, they embody the ‘souls' of those affected by domestic violence," Goetsch said.
To learn more about the MACA exhibition, click on the website here.
WHEN: Monday, July 18-Saturday, July 30; Artist Talk: Tuesday, July 19, 5:30- 7:30 p.m.; Reception: Friday, July 29, 5-6:30 p.m.
WHERE: Fox Building, 3rd Floor Gallery, 1303 W. Mount Royal Ave.
Image caption: Shana Goetsch, Tributary
Founded in 1826, Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) is the oldest continuously degree-granting college of art and design in the nation. The College enrolls nearly 3,500 undergraduate, graduate and continuing studies students from all 50 states and 57 countries in fine arts, design, electronic media, art education, liberal arts, and professional studies degree and non-credit programs. Redefining art and design education, MICA is pioneering interdisciplinary approaches to innovation, research, and community and social engagement. Alumni and programming reach around the globe, even as MICA remains a cultural cornerstone in the Baltimore/Washington region, hosting hundreds of exhibitions and events annually by students, faculty and other established artists.
|
<urn:uuid:811e89da-86f3-40d6-9751-1a8a3eb3b4ef>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.mica.edu/News/MACA_Students_Exhibition_Sheds_Light_on_Issues_of_Domestic_Violence_July_18-30.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368704392896/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516113952-00067-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.950794
| 519
| 1.601563
| 2
|
Add Heading HereCarpenters can blame tools of the trade-Climbers Cannot!
Climbing is becoming a universal sport growing faster than any other individual recreational activity that combines, fitness, attitude, adventure, travel and cool-ness.Media, is especially in tune and has boosted the appeal of a sport attractive to people of every nationality, economic strata, educational accomplishment, gender and physical conditioning.
Climbing is no longer a generic phrase. Climbing what?
Mountain climbing is distinctly different from rock climbing, the latter increasingly becoming an indoor sport, for convenience amoung other reasons, with restricted vertical heights and horizontal widths, depends on building ceiling construction limitations or takes place in the vast outdoors where each climb depends upon natures unique challenges due to locale. Mountain climbing as the phrase suggests is very different requiring totally different skills, temperament, conditioning, and strategic planning.
Thus the equipment must be exactly suited for the type of climb to be experienced.
Amateurs make the mistake of relying on a salespersons recommendations as to which equipment is necessary to safely scale and descend, and as no two indoor or outdoor rock climbs are the same, even on the same subject, as weather conditions and season often determines type and quality of equipment.
My suggestion always is to confer with an expert who is not in the business of selling or marketing climbing product but has firsthand, assaulted a similar or exact subject target.
Mountain climbing equipment is very different than rock climbing equipment, though the two sports do have many pieces of general equipment in common. Perhaps the most common piece of mountain climbing equipment, and the most recognizable, is the carabiner, which is a metal type hook with varying dimensions with a gate that opens and closes for a rope to pass and be secured through it. These pieces of mountain climbing equipment are used for a variety of purposes, and most climbers have several sized carabiners on hand during a climb.
I submit type of harnesses are the most important of all pieces of mountain climbing equipment, as it is primarily responsible for the climber's safety while climbing steep pitches as well as other unique findings ( all different). In general the harness fits around the waist, and two leg loops are attached to the loops on the waist. One leg loop wraps securely around each leg, and when a climber is climbing vertically, where can let he his or her weight fall into the harness, which will be suspended from a rope, or combo putting the climber in a sitting position. There are various types of construction some more elaborate, some more expensive than others-always buy the best if within budget.
The rock climbing harness is the most essential piece of equipment a rock climber will buy, so it is important to choose one that is functional, comfortable, and reliable. The only way to test for comfort is to wear the rock climbing harness and hang from it, which is not always possible, so it may be difficult to make that determination. Look for adequate padding for the type of climbing you will be doing, and be sure the rock climbing harness you choose has an appropriate amount of gear loops.
Some rock climbing harness models are designed specifically for one type of climbing. Indoor rock climbing harnesses, for example, are usually lightweight, easy to take on and off quickly, and they may or may not be padded. This type of rock climbing harness is designed to be as unobtrusive as possible, allowing the climber as much flexibility as possible. The harness may not have any gear loops, or very few gear loops, as little equipment is necessary for this type of climbing. If you intend to climb primarily indoors, this is the harness for you.
Outdoor rock climbers will need to choose among several rock climbing harness models designed to do different things. A person who does traditional climbing, in which a significant amount of gear needs to be hauled, will need a well-padded harness with several gear loops strong enough to haul the appropriate gear. These harnesses generally feature added lumbar support to accommodate the extra weight the climber carries, and it is very likely that this type of rock climbing harness will include an extra haul loop from which an extra rope can be secured. This is not a feature intended for anchoring use, but instead only for hauling use.
Mountaineers and multi-pitch climbers will benefit from a harness that allows quick adjustment to allow for clothing changes and for movement that will allow them to relieve themselves without having to remove the harness entirely. These types of climbers are likely to spend hours or even days in their harnesses, and removing them is not always safe or feasible. Specially designed harnesses allow the leg loops to be loosened and moved out of the way for such purposes safely and quickly. Such harnesses are often very adjustable to allow for different layers of clothing to be worn or removed.
Any climber experienced in assaulting peaks will tell you that weather determines success or failure so often, that what you wear (not style) but construction as well as material is key. This gear for mountain climbing varies, but is designed specifically to keep you warm, dry and flexible during inclement weather. It is best to dress always in layers; be sure to choose clothing that is breathable, as such clothing is designed to keep moisture from sweat away from the body, keeping you warm and comfy and dry during extreme physical exertion where one can expend up to 5000 calories or more depending upon height and other conditions. Outer layers should be waterproof and breathable, tough and have many ways of getting into and out of when needed, keeping snow, dirt, rock, pebbles and rain moisture away from the body while still allowing moisture from sweat to escape the outer layer.
Ice axes and crampons are important pieces of gear for mountain climbing, and it will be necessary to choose axes and crampons, sizes, construction, materials, design that will work well for the specific purposes of your climb. Ice axes in particular are designed for different applications, from mountain climbing to vertical ice climbing. Some ice axes feature a straight shaft, while others have a bent shaft, and the pick attachments can vary as well. It is best to consult an expert to determine which type of shaft you will need, as well as which type of pick attachments will be most appropriate. Not every axe is the same and not every climber will use the same axe the same way.
Rock climbing ropes can also range quite dramatically in thickness. In general, rope thickness is divided into three categories, including single, twin, and double/half ropes. Single rope usually has a width of around 0.40 inches (10 millimeters). Twin ropes consist of two individual ropes which are laced together, each of which are around 0.30 inches in width (7.5 millimeters). Like twin ropes, double/half ropes consist of two separate ropes combined into one. These individual ropes are typically around 0.35 inches (8.8 millimeters) in width.
Rock climbing ropes that are designed for indoor use may differ dramatically from those used outdoors. To prevent the risk of failure, outdoor ropes should be waterproof. Individuals who are interested in purchasing these ropes should consult with a salesperson to make sure that a particular rope is in fact waterproof. In contrast, ropes that are intended for indoor use will typically not get wet, and therefore may not require waterproofing.
Most rock climbing ropes can be found at sporting or outdoor supply stores. It is important to replace rock climbing ropes on a semi-regular basis in order to prevent possible injury from rope failure. In most cases, ropes used for rock climbing have a life expectancy of around 15 years. Ropes which are used extensively, however, may require replacement at an earlier time. The quality of ropes should be evaluated before each expedition.
To be continued….
Dr.Korman In memory of Dr. Schaaf and Jerry Weitzman Mountaineers extraordinaire-RIP
|
<urn:uuid:8c61c330-520e-4c35-932c-3eb0b94db54d>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.summitpost.org/climbing-tools-of-the-trade-dr-h-korman/821385
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368708766848/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516125246-00025-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.957377
| 1,624
| 2.109375
| 2
|
||This article needs additional citations for verification. (April 2012)|
|— City —|
|Dallas County and the state of Texas|
|Counties||Denton, Dallas, Collin|
|• City Council||Mayor Matthew Marchant (R)
|• City Manager||Leonard Martin|
|• City||37.1 sq mi (96.1 km2)|
|• Land||36.3 sq mi (94.0 km2)|
|• Water||0.8 sq mi (2.1 km2) 2.19%|
|Elevation||528 ft (161 m)|
|• Density||3,200/sq mi ( 1,200/km2)|
|Time zone||Central (UTC-6)|
|• Summer (DST)||Central (UTC-5)|
|ZIP codes||75006, 75007, 75008, 750|
|GNIS feature ID||1332207|
Carrollton is a city in Denton County, Dallas County and Collin County in the U.S. state of Texas. As of the 2010 census, the city's population was 119,097 making it the twenty-third most populous city in the state of Texas. Carrollton is a suburb of Dallas and in 2006 was named to America's "Top 100 Places to Live" by Relocate America. Also in 2006, Carrollton was selected as the 19th best place to live in the United States by Money magazine. In 2008 it was named by Money magazine the 15th best place to live among small cities.
The area was first settled by Jared Ford in 1842 by William and Mary Larner on a site within the Peters Colony grant. In 1844, the A. W. Perry family claimed land in the area around Trinity Mills, where, in partnership with Wade H. Witt, a mill was established.
The English colony, a group of families in the northeastern area of settlement which crossed into Denton County, was home to large landowners including the Furneaux, Jackson, Morgan, and Rowe families. It is most likely that Carrollton was named for Carrollton, Illinois, the original home of many of these settlers.
Early on, Carrollton's livelihood was exclusively agricultural, but following the construction of the Dallas-Wichita Railroad through Trinity Mills in 1878, the community began to grow in its industrial significance. Carrollton's significance was further strengthened when the railroad was extended to Denton in 1880 by Jay Gould, who sold the line to the Missouri–Kansas–Texas Railroad (the Katy) in 1881. By 1885, Carrollton had flour mills, cotton gins, two churches, a school, and a population of 150. The St. Louis Southwestern Railway (the "Cotton Belt") crossed the Katy in 1888, and the town became a shipping center for livestock, cotton, cottonseed, and grain, helping the town surpass Trinity Mills to the north.
In 1913 Carrollton was officially incorporated, and W. F. Vinson was elected mayor. A gravel industry that began in Carrollton in 1912 transformed the city, by the late 1940s, to a "grain and gravel" town. The city also supported a brick plant and a dairy industry, and National Metal Products established itself in the city in 1946.
After World War II the city grew rapidly. In 1950 its population stood at 1,610, and it grew to 4,242 in 1960 and 13,855 in 1970. At this point, significant suburban growth began spilling out of north Dallas, and the city grew tremendously between 1970 and 1980, with a documented growth of 193% to 40,595 inhabitants. By 1983, the population was 52,000, by 1990, it had reached 82,169, and by 2010 the population had grown to 119,097.
Geography and environment
According to the United States Census Bureau, Carrollton has a total area of 37.1 square miles (96.1 km2), of which 36.3 square miles (94.0 km2) is land and 0.81 square miles (2.1 km2), or 2.19%, is water.
Carrollton is located in portions of three counties: Dallas County, Denton County and Collin County.
|Climate chart (explanation)|
On average, the warmest month is July. The highest recorded temperature was 112°F in 1980. The average coolest month is January. The lowest recorded temperature was 1°F in 1989. The most precipitation on average occurs in May.
Carrollton is considered to have a humid subtropical climate.
As of the 2010 census, the total population was 119,097, with 43,299 households and 31,073 families residing in the city. The population density was 3,209.8 people per square mile (1,239.3/km2). There were 45,508 housing units at an average density of 1,253.7 per square mile (484.1/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 63.6% White, 8.4% African American, 0.6% Native American, 13.4% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 10.8% some other race, and 3.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 30.0% of the population.
There were 43,299 households at the 2010 census. Of these, 35.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 71.8% were headed by married couples living together, 12.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.2% were non-families. 22.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.74, and the average family size was 3.25.
In the city the population was spread out with 26.0% under the age of 18, 8.5% from 18 to 24, 29.7% from 25 to 44, 27.8% from 45 to 64, and 8.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35.6 years. For every 100 females there were 95.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.4 males.
At the 2000 census, the median income for a household in the city was $62,406, and the median income for a family was $68,672. Males had a median income of $45,469 versus $32,997 for females. The per capita income for the city was $26,746. About 4.1% of families and 5.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.4% of those under age 18 and 6.3% of those age 65 or over.
Local government
According to the city’s most recent Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, the city’s various funds had $164.0 million in Revenues, $149.2 million in expenditures, $750 million in total assets, $228.0 million in total liabilities, and $96.5 million in cash and investments.
|#||Employer||# of Employees|
|1||Halliburton Energy Services||1,302|
|3||Hilton Reservations Worldwide||900|
|4||Baylor Medical Center at Carrollton||700|
|7||Accor North America||514|
The city houses headquarters for:
- FASTSIGNS International, Inc.
- Heelys, Inc.
- Motel 6
- RUF (US outlet)
- Home Interiors and Gifts Inc.
- Accor North America
- Sandy Lake Amusement Park
STMicroelectronics has its regional U.S. headquarters in Carrollton; the company had acquired the Carrollton office in 1987. In December 2009 the company announced that it would move its U.S. headquarters to Coppell, near Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. After the move occurs in the second quarter of 2010, the company plans to close the Carrollton office.
Law and government
The City of Carrollton has a City Council that consists of seven members and a Mayor, the current Mayor of Carrollton is Matthew Marchant. The City Council is responsible for establishing city policies, considering city resolutions and ordinances, appointing citizens to various city boards and commissions, adopting the city's Comprehensive Plan and annual budget, approving or rejecting zoning changes, and meets on the first and third Tuesday of every month.
Most of Carrollton is a part of the Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District. Dallas Independent School District also serves a small portion of Carrollton in the south, along with the Lewisville Independent School District in the north.
Private schools in the area include The Saint Anthony School.
Notable residents
||This section of a biographical article needs additional citations for verification. (December 2009)|
- Rhema Marvanne, child gospel singer featured in the movie Machine Gun Preacher
- Jason Maxiell, Detroit Pistons forward player, attended Newman Smith High School
- Noah Ringer, Taekwondo champion and The Last Airbender actor
- Melissa Rycroft, former Dallas Cowboys cheerleader and Dancing with the Stars and The Bachelor contestant
- Taylor Teagarden, Baltimore Orioles catcher, attended Creekview High School
- Robert Matthew "Vanilla Ice" Van Winkle - attended Newman Smith High School
- Deron Williams, point guard for the Brooklyn Nets, attended Arbor Creek Middle School
- Travis Wilson, wide receiver for the Cleveland Browns, attended Creekview High School
Sister cities
- "American FactFinder". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved 2008-01-31.
- "US Board on Geographic Names". United States Geological Survey. 2007-10-25. Retrieved 2008-01-31.
- "Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics: 2010 Demographic Profile Data (DP-1): Carrollton city, Texas". U.S. Census Bureau, American Factfinder. Retrieved January 11, 2012.
- Relocate America - Carrollton, Texas. Retrieved 8 November 2006.
- "Best places to live 2008". CNN.
- Carrollton, Texas from the Handbook of Texas Online. By Joan Jenkins Perez. Retrieved 4 February 2007.
- "Geographic Identifiers: 2010 Demographic Profile Data (G001): Carrollton city, Texas". U.S. Census Bureau, American Factfinder. Retrieved January 11, 2012.
- City of Carrollton CAFR Retrieved 2009-07-20
- Fastsigns International, Inc. Moves to Largar Facility in Carrollton, TX
- Sheryl Jean (April 25, 2011). "Carrollton-based Heelys tries to get back on track". The Dallas Morning News.
- "Contact Us." Accor North America. Retrieved on December 28, 2011. "4001 International Parkway Carrollton, TX 75007"
- "Easywell Offices." Hallburton. Retrieved on April 3, 2009.
- "STMicroelectronics Moves US Headquarters Closer to DFW Airport." PR Newswire. December 15, 2009. Retrieved on January 10, 2010.
- Sandoval, Stephanie (2008-05-11). "Challenger Ron Branson ousts Becky Miller in Carrollton mayor's race". The Dallas Morning News. Retrieved 2008-05-12.
- Mayor/City Council
- "Coram Deo Academy of North Dallas." Coram Deo Academy. Retrieved on October 12, 2011. "2435 E. Hebron Pkwy. Carrollton, TX 75007"
- Eric Aasen. "Young Texas girl becomes singing sensation online". Abilene Reporter-News.
- Jason Maxiell NBA profile
- Bruce Felps (July 2, 2010). "From Local Kid to Movie Star, Back Again". KXAS-TV.
- "DWTS' Melissa: Born to Dance!". Star.
- Taylor Teagarden ESPN profile
- Michael Small, Carlton Stowers. "After Hiding Under a Blanket of Tall Tales, Vanilla Ice Wakes Up as Rap's Van Winkle". People magazine.
- Scott Crisp (July 28, 2009). "Cowboys Release Wilson". KXAS-TV.
|Wikimedia Commons has media related to: Carrollton, Texas|
- City of Carrollton official website
- Carrollton, Texas from the Handbook of Texas Online
- Headlines about Carrollton and Farmers Branch from The Dallas Morning News
|
<urn:uuid:441bfdaa-a146-4d89-b13f-19967b49c4af>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carrollton,_Texas
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706153698/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516120913-00031-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.913163
| 2,654
| 2.03125
| 2
|
|Gustav Mahler and his “little composition house”|
|From 1908 to 1910 Gustav Mahler, a Bohemian musical genius, spent his summer months enjoying the fresh summer air of the Dolomites in Carbonin Vecchia in the immediate vicinity of Dobbiaco. To compose his musical masterpieces, however, Gustav Mahler chose the unique setting of what is today the Dobbiaco Nature Park. His “little composition house” - a little wooden hut in the “Belle Époque” style - is still standing to this day. Within its walls, surrounded by the silence of the Dolomites, Mahler created his unforgettable works, including the 9th and 10th symphonies; the 10th was left unfinished. Looking towards the beauty of the Dolomites that embrace Dobbiaco, Gustav Mahler composed “Das Lied der Erde” (The Song of the Earth). Every year Dobbiaco hosts the Gustav Mahler Music weeks to honour this unforgotten artist. A not-to-be-missed event!|
|Since the year 2000 there has been a nature trail on Lake Dobbiaco, not far from the village: You’ll find 11 activity stops along the trail, ideal for both the young and young at heart to get together and enjoy nature in the open air.|
|The Wildlife Park in Dobbiaco was opened about 20 years ago and has, over time, become one of the main places of interest in the area as well as an enjoyable educational destination. Besides red deer and other domestic animal species - such as the eagle owl and the snowy owl - you can admire rare animals such as lynxes and raccoons. As a guest of the Romantik Hotel Santer you are warmly invited to visit the Wildlife Park free of charge.|
|Nature Park House and Forest Wonder World|
Entertaining and informative, nature is at your very fingertips in the Nature Park House. Here at the multi-media interactive Mitmach-Museum you’ll find a wealth of information on the nature and culture of the Sesto Dolomites Nature Park, the Fanes – Sennes – Braies Nature Park, the geological composition of the territory, the war events which took place on the Dolomites’ front during World War I and all 7 nature parks of South Tyrol. At the Experience Workshop you can re-discover nature with all your senses: Smell it, feel it, look at it and hear it, while at the aquarium you can go on a journey of discovery to find out about the life of frogs and amphibians.
Opening hours: From May to October and from Christmas to March:
Tuesday – Saturday
09.30am – 12.30pm and 4.00pm – 7.00pm
July and August: also open on Sundays and Thursdays from 7.00pm to 10.00pm.
|The Three Peaks Showcase Dairy|
Since its reopening in September 2004 the Three Peaks Showcase Dairy in Dobbiaco allows its guests a unique insight into the process of cheese and milk production.
After a short informative introduction about the beginning and development of cheese production, guests can enjoy a 20 stop tour along the production showcase led by an expert guide. Naturally, you are welcome to taste and buy the Alpine dairy products.
The Alpine dairy showcase is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 8.00am to 6.00pm and Sundays from 10.00am to 5.00pm.
Closed on Monday.
|The Dobbiaco district biomass heating plant show-trail|
Since 1995 the district heating power plant – a cooperative of 550 members – has been supplying 1.200 households in Dobbiaco and S. Candido with biomass district heating.
The biomass show-trail was opened during the expansion of the district heating plant in July 2005: it was the first of its kind in Europe. When touring the district, heating power plant visitors can personally observe the process of generating electrical and thermal energy from wood chips largely obtained from local forests. Through the many interactive display boards you will learn all there is to know about this process.
The visitors’ display is open daily from 09.00am to 5.00pm. Every Thursday at 4.00pm expert staff will lead you on a guided tour.
|
<urn:uuid:82909d09-4bac-4516-81cb-82edd1ae018f>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.hotel-santer.com/en/activity-in-the-dolomites/what-to-see/index.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368703682988/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516112802-00021-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.945039
| 906
| 2.03125
| 2
|
By Andrew P. Napolitano
The president's men trash the Constitution to pursue antagonists
Independent voices from the TWT Communities
The General Services Administration (GSA) is an independent agency of the United States government, established in 1949 to help manage and support the basic functioning of federal agencies. The GSA supplies products and communications for U.S. government offices, provides transportation and office space to federal employees, and develops government-wide cost-minimizing policies, among other management tasks. GSA’s mission is "to use expertise to provide innovative solutions for our customers in support of their missions and by so doing foster an effective, sustainable, and transparent government for the American people." - Source: Wikipedia
Everyone sat on plastic folding chairs, on a concrete floor in front of rows upon rows of empty industrial shelves. Speakers sometimes had to pause, to keep the rumble of trucks outside from drowning out their words.
Many Americans have stopped using the U.S. Postal Service in favor of private carriers like UPS and FedEx. And now, it seems, so has the federal government.
The federal government can't read a tape measure and doesn't seem to care whether the courthouses it builds remain within the size limits mandated by Congress, and the result is more than $800 million in wasted taxpayer money, according to an investigation by the Government Accountability Office, Congress' watchdog arm.The report said the General Services Administration's construction measurement and management are so poor that GSA built the equivalent of nine too many courthouses between 2000 and 2010.During that period, construction on 32 federal courthouses exceeded their Congressionally approved sizes by 3.56 million square feet, costing taxpayers $835 million. But the waste doesn't stop there. Investigators say the government is forced to maintain the space it doesn't really need, at an annual cost of $51 million.For poor management of construction that led to millions of dollars in waste, the General Services Administration wins this week's Golden Hammer, a distinction given by the Washington Guardian to examples of poor management, oversight and unnecessary spending.It all happened because GSA, which oversees federal buildings, wasn't accurately measuring floor space or keeping an eye on compliance with the congressional authorization, the watchdog office said in two reports released in 2010 and 2013. The agency "did not focus on ensuring that the authorized gross square footage was met in the design and construction of courthouses until 2007," investigators said, noting that structures built after 2007 are still exceeding authorized sizes."GSA lacked sufficient controls to ensure that courthouses were planned and built according to authorized gross square footage, initially because it had not established a consistent policy for how to measure gross square footage," investigators said.The GSA overestimated the number of judges working at the courthouses, investigators said, and also did not consider the possibility of judges sharing courtrooms.But GSA officials took issues with the report, saying that inspectors inaccurately measured square footage by including the empty upper space in atriums and applying the idea of 'courtroom sharing' to buildings constructed a decade ago, prior to the budget saving policy.GSA officials did not return calls seeking additional comment."GSA officials stated that courtroom space is among the most expensive of courthouse spaces to construct," the GAO said, noting that sharing courtrooms should be possible due to how infrequently they are sometimes used. "According to the judiciary’s data, courtrooms are used for case-related proceedings only a quarter of the available time or less, on average."One of the newest courtrooms, the Wilkie D. Ferguson Jr. U.S. Courthouse in Miami, Fla., has space for 16 courtrooms, bringing the city's total up to 29. But with a courtroom-sharing plan in place, it would only need 17, the GAO said."It is important for the federal judiciary to have adequate, appropriate, modern facilities to carry out judicial functions," inspector said. "GSA and the judiciary have an opportunity to align their courthouse planning and construction with the judiciary’s real need for space. Such changes would greatly reduce construction, operations and maintenance and rent costs."
The White House tried to clarify a mystery Wednesday about the government constructing a replica Oval Office for President Obama — but the attempt to explain raised more questions than it answered.
The government owns thousands of federally-owned, historic structures across the nation. Maintaining those buildings, however, presents costly problems as diverse as the structures themselves.
It's official: From presidential campaign politics to a world gone "Gangnam Style," 2012 was the most dubious year yet.
Homer didn't tweet.
The General Services Administration is advertising to fill more than a dozen jobs and has approved hiring more than 40 employees since July, when the agency's top official announced a "targeted hiring freeze" in the wake of ongoing spending scandals.
Government officials blame unfair competition from China for the collapse of solar panel manufacturer Solyndra, but such concerns didn't stop the federal government from breaking stimulus program rules to use Chinese solar panels atop a federal building housing the offices of a senator, congressman and several agencies.
Are you a veteran with a job? Then thank Michelle Obama, because she is taking credit for it.
The historic but empty federal courthouse in downtown Miami is a costly symbol of the government's sluggishness at selling or finding new purposes for some 14,000 vacant or underused properties nationwide, Republican lawmakers said at a House panel hearing Monday.
The embattled General Services Administration (GSA) is facing investigations into as many as 77 conferences and awards ceremonies over the years as more details emerged Wednesday about a lavish one-day gathering in Crystal City costing more than a quarter-million dollars for hundreds of employees, including a top agency deputy hailed just months ago as a taxpayer hero.
If America had a Spend Like a Drunken Sailor Award, Navy Secretary Ray Mabus would win hands-down for blowing $12 million on biofuel for Navy ships.
Another General Services Administration conference is coming under scrutiny and this one featured drumsticks, miniature pastries, a violinist and gift clocks instead of mind readers and clowns.
General Services Administration officials have been quick to point out that they are taking strong disciplinary action against those responsible for a lavish $823,000 Las Vegas conference funded by taxpayers that featured a red-carpet party, magic shows and in-room parties.
|
<urn:uuid:5197bbf8-6fe2-43ca-b007-6c67641a9cb3>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.washingtontimes.com/topics/general-services-administration/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368704132298/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516113532-00052-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.954521
| 1,314
| 3.015625
| 3
|
Syrups Made With Vinegar And Honey
College : Take of fresh Rosemary flowers a pound, clarified Honey three pounds, mix them in a glass with a narrow mouth, set them in the sun, keep them for use.
Culpeper : It hath the same virtues with Rosemary flowers, to which I refer you, only by reason of the Honey it may be somewhat cleansing.
College : Take of white Hellebore roots bruised a pound, clear Water fourteen pounds, after three days infusions, boil it till half be consumed, then strain it diligently, and with three pounds of Honey, boil it to the thickness of Honey.
College : Boil three pounds of the juice of Mercury, with two pounds of Honey to the thickness of Honey.
Culpeper : It is used as an emollient in clysters.
Mel Mororum, vel Diamoron
College : Take of the juice of Mulberries and Blackberries, before they be ripe, gathered before the sun be up, of each a pound and a half, Honey two pounds, boil them to their due thickness.
Culpeper : It is vulgarly known to be good for sore mouths, as also to cool inflammations there.
Mel Nuceum, alias Diacarion et Dianucum
College : Take of the juice of the outward bark of green Walnuts, gathered in the dog days two pounds, boil it gently till it be thick, and with one pound of Honey, boil it to the thickness of Honey.
Culpeper : It is a good preservative in pestilential times, a spoonful being taken as soon as you are up.
College : Take of Raisins of the sun cleansed from the stones two pounds, steep them in six pounds of warm water, the next day boil it half away, and press it strongly, and with two pounds of Honey, let the expressed liquor boil to its thickness.
Culpeper : It is a pretty pleasing medicine for such as are in consumptions, and are bound in body.
Mel Rosatum commune, sive Foliatum
College : Take of red Roses not quite open two pounds, Honey six pounds, set them in the sun according to art.
Mel Rosatum Colatum
College : Take of the best clarified Honey ten pounds, juice of fresh red Roses one pound, set it handsomely over the fire, and when it begins to boil, put in four pounds of fresh red Roses, the whites being cut off; the juice being consumed by boiling and stirring, strain it and keep it for use.
Culpeper : They are both used for diseases in the mouth.
|Copyright: All texts on Bibliomania are © Bibliomania.com Ltd, and may not be reproduced in any form without our written permission. See our FAQ for more details.|
|
<urn:uuid:d146d9b5-95c0-4d35-a368-36b74dbefaa4>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.bibliomania.com/2/1/66/113/21297/1.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368696382584/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516092622-00009-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.934633
| 602
| 1.84375
| 2
|
I did some testing over the weekend regarding this question. My results are nothing but preliminary, but I thought you might get some use from the information.
I tested cutting the first coat with 50% H2O vs. a straight full strength coat. The second coat was full strength in both cases.
First, the paper seemed to absorb the 50% solution faster, so I ended up putting in a little more than 50% water, so that there was enough solution to enable consistant coating.
It appeared that I got comparable dmax values with both, although I can't test that right now, as my densitometer needs a new PS. However, they looked very similar in dmax.
I noticed that the 50% first coat seemed to result in a faster printing solution. I would guess that it printed 2/3 or 3/4 of a stop faster than the full strength solution.
The 50% coat also appeared to have a slightly smoother tone in the middle zones where it is most apparent. This could have been a coating varialbe, or it could be a product of the solution.
At this point, I don't see any drawbaaks to cutting the first coat with 50% water, and I'm inclined to think it may be a good thing to do, especially when printing larger, as it does result in a good bit of metals savings.
More tests are needed to determine if this is definately a win-win situation, but it appears to work well at first glimpse. Another test that might be worthwhile is to use a 1% oxalic acid solution instead of H2O for the first coat, and see if that improves that coating.
It may be possible to cut the solution strength of the first coat even further and still have the benefits of double coating, but I don't know how far that can go.
|
<urn:uuid:6321abf9-bdd6-4dbd-aba7-1806d7b85d5d>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.apug.org/forums/viewpost.php?p=22119
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368704713110/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516114513-00013-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.973016
| 381
| 1.632813
| 2
|
You've heard talk lately about the convergence of electricity and natural gas. That idea has grown as commodity markets have matured for gas and emerged for bulk power.
A joint study by Arthur Andersen & Co. and Cambridge Energy Research Associates (CERA) cites this winter's dramatic spike in natural gas prices as evidence of a growing need for selective new investment in gas transmission and storage infrastructure. Natural Gas Trends, 1996 identifies three underlying trends:
s Surging demand is creating new bottlenecks.
s Technology is improving the competitive position of gas.
s Natural gas and electric power markets are becoming increasingly integrated.
s "This winter's big price leap is being caused by a surge of demand in eastern markets rather than by a shortfall of supply in producing regions," says Thomas R. Robinson, CERA's director for North American natural gas. "Although reliability of supply has not been threatened, the demand generated by an extended period of very low temperatures has resulted in regional transmission bottlenecks, a heavy draw on storage supplies and significant fuel-switching out of gas."
Articles found on this page are available to Internet subscribers only. For more information about obtaining a username and password, please call our Customer Service Department at 1-800-368-5001.
|
<urn:uuid:b7602986-d753-4bec-bb89-f681846d80b9>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.fortnightly.com/fortnightly/1996/03-0/new-gas-challenges-ahead
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368704713110/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516114513-00003-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.93709
| 258
| 2.34375
| 2
|
Traveling in the Wake of Disaster
The oil spill clean-up is on, the aftershocks have subsided, the political riots are over, and the volcano’s ash is dissipating….in all cases, the local economy is suffering and tourism could sure use a bolster. But is it time to go?
Most economies struggle greatly with a massive decline in tourism following a disaster, whether it be caused by fighting factions, negligent corporations or acts of the gods. Here’s a few considerations when planning your post-disaster trip.
Step One: Assessment
Make sure conditions are stabilized and safe within the country. Are people still scrambling for food and shelter? Has transport and commerce been reestablished?
You’ll want to make sure you are not overloading the infrastructure and eating up resources destined for locals still reeling from the aftermath. Don’t let the desire to be in the middle of the action, even if you have the most altruistic of intentions, allow you to stand in the way of the region getting back on its feet. For some people this may require a bit of sol-searching, as disaster tourism – essentially large-scale rubbernecking – has become part of the cultural lexicon. I’m not even kidding.
Step Two: Do your homework & get involved
Once you’ve determined that the effected region’s infrastructure has bounced back enough to support outside visitors, let the rebuilding effort become a part of your purpose in traveling there. Do your part to pitch in and help!
Do some research beforehand and connect with a well-organized volunteer project before you leave home. (I’m talking one that has a good track record of being effective, like one of my favorites, Hands On Disaster Relief) Find out specifically what they are looking for in terms of skills, tools, time commitments and expenses. Be prepared to help not only with your two hands, but with all costs associated with being a part of the effort. Find out what you can bring in terms of supplies, and consider collecting donations from family and friends to bring with you as well.
Step Three: Roll up your sleeves
With a firm handle on the conditions and concrete idea of how you’ll be able to help, you’re now ready for a unique opportunity to connect with locals at a pivotal time in their history. Taking part in a united effort for recovery is a great framework to base a trip on, a time when you may get a more intimate connection with the people you are spending time alongside. Take time to listen to their stories and learn from their varying perspectives. That said, be sure to stay sensitive to the fresh wounds and lasting trauma of loss and grief from recent events.
Even if you choose not to engage directly in a relief or rebuilding project, consider the impact of your tourist dollars, now more than ever. Everywhere you stay, eat and shop should ideally be in direct support of the local tourism economy of that area. Consider spending money that would normally go towards souvenirs and tchochkes on local disaster relief efforts instead. For example, the North Andaman Tsunami Relief project organized an artisan’s cooperative in the wake of the 2005 tsunami, and continues to sell handmade boats and other products as part of their effort to support communities devasted by the tsunami.
photo by seua yai7 comments
|
<urn:uuid:3571d72f-d9aa-49d9-a90d-3acb5a6d8f12>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://wanderlustandlipstick.com/blogs/travelpurpose/2010/06/08/traveling-in-the-wake-of-disaster/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368711005985/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516133005-00037-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.947447
| 694
| 1.765625
| 2
|
Discussing Drugs and Smoking with Children
The one thing you really want to remember is to actually talk to you child about drugs and smoking. Sometimes I think we depend on what the school teaches or ads or things they see on TV to help them learn what they need to know. Actually they need to learn directly from their parents what your attitude is toward drugs and smoking.
So, share your thoughts. Share your thoughts. Share your thoughts, and not only talk to kids, but ask them what they think. In fact, start with asking what they think about the idea of smoking cigarettes. Ask them what they think when people take drugs that they shouldn’t be taking. If you do that, you’ve got a dialogue going and you’ve got a lot more communication happening between you and your child than if you just give a lecture and then say, “Now I’ve told you. Don’t do it.” It’s not going to work. The just say no doesn’t work. You need a dialogue. You need a relationship around these topics so that your kids know they can come to you with a question because you’ve already laid the groundwork with a conversation rather than just a telling.
And then be sure that you are modeling what you want your kids to know. If you don’t want them to smoke cigarettes, don’t smoke cigarettes. If you don’t want them to do illicit drugs, don’t do drugs yourself. That seems a little bit obvious, but it’s amazing how many people are out there saying don’t do drugs to their kids and actually engaging in too much alcohol intake or too much prescription drug intake. So, do what you ask your kids to do, and don’t do what you ask your kids not to do. And keep that dialogue going.
Every year it would be a good idea to go back to this conversation. So, maybe you want to just set it up at the Fourth of July you talk about drugs and alcohol with your kids and smoking so that you know that you’re keeping up with their developmental phase. Their understanding of these topics changes as they grow, so you need to do this on a regular basis. Don’t think that one talk is going to do the deal. You really have to keep engaged. And then, trust your kids. Any time that they show good judgment, give them heartfelt appreciation. “When you show such good judgment, I feel incredibly proud of you because it shows me how grown up you’re getting and what a good thinker you are.” That’s the best way to get good behavior out of kids, heartfelt appreciation for the good stuff.
|
<urn:uuid:c0729601-2455-4f69-bef3-6574cf0c638b>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://parentingmojo.com/videos/discussing-drugs-smoking-children/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368700958435/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516104238-00071-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.973453
| 571
| 2.28125
| 2
|
In this video interactive, economist Robert Shiller discusses four aspects of the current crisis: regulating for financial innovation, reducing trust in models, redesigning institutions, and the time line for turnaround. His perspectives are informed in part through his research that psychology—particularly an understanding of human irrationality—can play a key role in explaining economic breakdowns and exploring effective solutions.
Robert Shiller is a professor of economics at Yale University and cocreator of the Case–Shiller House Price Index, which is now one of the most widely used methods of measuring performance in that industry. He also introduced into intellectual circulation the phrase “irrational exuberance,” which was picked up famously by Alan Greenspan in 1996. Shiller’s body of work on financial markets and economics includes the books Irrational Exuberance and, most recently, Animal Spirits.
This interview was conducted by Rik Kirkland, McKinsey’s director of publishing, in March 2009. It was taped at Yale University.
Click on the image to watch this chaptered video interactive, or read the transcript below.
Regulating for financial innovation
I think the government has to take an attitude that it is the sponsor of innovation, both of scientific innovation and of financial innovation. The government learned that years ago, just after World War II, when they created the National Science Foundation—and the government aggressively supports scientific innovation. We have to have the same attitude toward financial innovation.
And, unfortunately, the problem is financial innovation is difficult to measure, and to evaluate, because a lot of the outcomes that are promised by financial innovations are outcomes that take place years in the future. And it’s possible to be misled and deceived by some supposed financial innovations. And the government finds it difficult to regulate them. But, unfortunately, it’s necessary.
I think the US government is actually a world leader in financial regulation, even though people say this financial crisis started in the United States. I think good financial regulation also started in the United States; and the Securities and Exchange Commission has had a long history of regulation that has been basically supportive of financial innovation, but we have to carry that further now. And I think that the kind of new regulation that we need is, as [former US Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson] called it, objectives-based regulation—we have to be thinking more expansively about where we’re going and how we can encourage financial innovation that gets us there. And we have to think less bureaucratically.
I don’t want to see us killing off innovation, and this is what may get lost—and I hope it doesn’t get lost—in the current crisis. Ultimately, let’s not forget that we’ve learned lessons that a capitalist economy is an economy that promotes entrepreneurship, and entrepreneurship is not the province for government bureaucrats.
The business has to be that we have a sort of creative destruction. We have people trying things. And what does an entrepreneur do? You go to a number of different investment banks or venture capital firms, present your idea. And most people can’t recognize an important, new idea, but some can. And that process, which is a free-market process, is really an important source of economic growth, and it can’t be taken over by the government. And I think we will remember that. We are in a crisis situation, and these claims that we’re at the end of capitalism are misplaced. I don’t think that anything like that is going to happen.
Reducing trust in models
The 1970s, I think that was the heyday of the so-called efficient-markets hypothesis. It became thought of as one of the established facts, that markets are efficient. What does “efficient markets” mean? It means that markets fully incorporate all publicly available information, and they do it optimally.
I think the problem with it is that the very volatility of the market can’t be explained in those terms. It moves too much. Often a price move for an individual company represents some news about that company. But there is rarely such news about the aggregate stock market. It’s much more ambiguous about how to forecast the market. So, I think it’s really psychology that drives the stock market—and, increasingly, the market for homes as well.
The problem is that it’s always a combination of psychology and reality. So right now, many entrepreneurs are holding off. They’re not taking risky measures to start a business, because you can’t. You can’t get a loan. Now, that’s reality. But that reality is the product of yet more fundamental decisions that people are making that brought us to this situation.
So, often you will find yourself, as a manager, making decisions that are similar. I mean, you have no choice, right? But there is a certain latitude of choice that one does have, and I think it’s very important for managers to think about really what’s driving this. And it helps them to understand how to do a somewhat contrarian policy and investment policy. And that means you have to understand that not only is there this reality that’s crimping your effort to do business, but there’s also a component of your own feelings that are being brought along by our natural herd instincts and our natural tendency to pay attention to what everyone else is paying attention to now.
I just have the general feeling that managers have to be Renaissance people in some sense. They have to read widely and try to put events into the context of history. Now, I think that financial modeling has made tremendous progress, even during this efficient-markets period, when I think we had too much faith in the existing models. You have to be a quantitative person if you’re managing a company. The quantitative details really matter.
And so you’re going to have to be looking at models, but I think that part of what brought us into this crisis—I said it was complacence, initially—it’s also a kind of a blind acceptance of others’ authority that, in terms of variance at risk or econometric models, or in terms of the counterparties we were dealing with, we tended to think of as bigger than life. And so, people were taking too much for granted.
I’m hopeful that we’ll democratize our financial institutions so that they work better for the people. Of course, we have health insurance—but it omits, you know, over 40 million Americans now. Health insurance is a basic risk-management institution, but it isn’t working well enough. And so one thing would be to expand the scope of that.
Another thing is risk management with regard to housing, for example. We have a huge mess-up here, because people have been urged by experts and by national leaders to invest all of their life savings in a single risky investment, a home in a city, in a leveraged way. They would borrow 80 percent, 90 percent, or even more of the money to buy the home. And so they’re putting their life savings on the line in a crazy way. So this shouldn’t be the new normal; but we have to then redesign our mortgage institutions.
We have over 12 million people who are underwater—that is, they have negative net worth in their homes. And, typically, these people have nothing else, so they’re wiped out. How can it be that we were anywhere close to the right system? There are some people who doubted it would ever happen. I’ve talked to these people, and it seems to be often based on the assumption, one way or the other, that home prices would only go up. Well, we’ve just learned that they don’t just only go up.
We didn’t have the right system. It was normal. We thought that the conventional mortgages that were being issued represented some kind of enlightenment, but that was a group thing. That was taking for granted that what we have now is right, and it’s not right. So it has to be fixed. So I’m hopeful that this event that we’re going through now will trigger a lot of institutional rethinking that will make our economy work better.
Another thing I might mention is that economic inequality has been getting worse and worse over the last couple of decades. And that is an alarming trend that I’m hopeful this crisis might start to give us the mandate to work on.
I think fixing our mortgage institutions is one way of partially dealing with that crisis. Anything that reduces the exposure to individual risks—like health insurance risks or housing risks or any other risk that impacts on people—anything that we do to reduce those risks will also reduce inequality. And if it’s really good risk management, it’s not going to reduce incentives to hard work or entrepreneurship. So I think we have to get on with making fundamental redesigns in our financial system.
Time line for turnaround
I think there’s a tendency, when we’re watching the day-to-day fluctuations, to think that we’re going to find some news story that’s going to mark the turnaround and overreact to that. And I think that overreaction generates the high short-term volatility that we have now. More recently, we’ve been back up to Depression levels of volatility, and that reflects the heavy focusing of attention on the market now. So I don’t know what to say about finding a bottom, except that this is a process that’s going to evolve over years. And the confidence loss that we have is a serious problem.
I don’t want to say that I don’t think there will be a turnaround soon, but I think that many of us are too much expecting that it might come tomorrow or the day after. And this volatility is evidence of that. So I think it is quite possible that the stock market and the housing market, five years from now, will be close to where they are now.
This is not a forecast; but it wouldn’t surprise me in the least if we were right where we are now. And so maybe we shouldn’t be so trigger-happy and so worried about timing the market. I guess the basic investment advice that I would say is, maybe not so much focusing on that, but focusing on getting your risk profile right, getting the exposures so that you’re not overexposed to any one risk—you’re properly diversified, you’re hedged against specific risks that phase you.
|
<urn:uuid:954842aa-7c97-4715-b3f8-1533c7101213>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.mckinsey.com/insights/economic_studies/surveying_the_economic_horizon_a_conversation_with_robert_shiller
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706499548/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516121459-00051-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.974005
| 2,236
| 2.203125
| 2
|
Hayekian Spontaneous Order and the International Balance of Power
By Edwin van de Haar
This article appeared in the Summer 2011 issue of The Independent Review
The international balance of power is a type of social order that emerges unintentionally, what F. A. Hayek called a spontaneous order. This identification meshes seamlessly with other classical-liberal views on international relations, and todays classical liberals can deepen their analysis and broaden their worldwide appeal by building on it.
Despite work by think tanks and a few scholars, most often about a particular countrys foreign policy, international relations is hardly a topic for polite classical-liberal conversation. For the past century or so, classical liberals have been rather complacent about this issue, for the most part limiting their statements to the maxim that if only free trade and globalization were increased, the world would become harmonious and peaceful. It may be seriously doubted whether this position ever made much practical sense, but it certainly no longer suffices as a statement of general principles. Global events have an ever-expanding influence on peoples lives, which requires classical liberals to develop comprehensive views on international relations. We are lucky that, from David Hume and Adam Smith onward, many of the great classical-liberal forefathers put forward sophisticated views on this subject. These old ideas have been forgotten or neglected, perhaps owing to academic specialization that has led economists to focus on the economic ideas in the classical-liberal canon (for example, in the works of Smith, Ludwig von Mises, and F. A. Hayek), philosophers on the ideas of Hume, and political theorists on the domestic side of classical-liberal political thought. One result is that classical-liberal thinking is for the most part absent from academic international relations, even though the classical-liberal ideas put forward on this subject still have value for current debates.
Another consequence of the lack of a standard classical-liberal view on international affairs is that false ideas about world politics have continued to circulate for many decades, if not centuries. In this article, I focus on a part of the heritage of nineteenth-century liberal thought. From Richard Cobden (1878, 121) onward, one element of international relations has had an especially bad press among classical liberals: the balance of power between states, which has been seen as a major cause of war and destruction. As I discuss, this view undeniably contains some truth. Yet the positive effects of the balance of power, in particular its capacity to stabilize international order and therefore to prevent war and misery, have been overlooked completely. Without international order, individual liberty is impossible. This fact alone requires classical liberals to pay more attention to the international balance of power than they have done in the past century and a half.
This oversight seems even more peculiar if one scrutinizes the thought of Friedrich Hayek and his intellectual forebears, such as Hume and Smith. A major element in Hayekian thought is the idea of spontaneous order, in which order emerges unintentionally. I argue that the international balance of power has all the characteristics of Hayekian spontaneous order. This link between Hayeks ideas and the balance of power is less surprising than it might seem because the great classical-liberal thinkers, such as Hume, Smith, Mises, and Hayek, were rather power oriented in their views on international affairs. Hence, in this article, I call on classical liberals to reappraise the international balance of power, perhaps as part of a general reconsideration of their ideas about international relations....
Volume 16 Number 1
Independent Review Articles on Related Subjects
|
<urn:uuid:fc389d91-f005-465c-95d0-6d67d1b9c7ea>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.independent.org/publications/tir/article.asp?a=840
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368701852492/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516105732-00064-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.948164
| 718
| 2.109375
| 2
|
[Due to the increasing size of the archives, each topic page now contains only the prior 365 days of content. Access to older stories is now solely through the Monthly Archive pages or the site search function.]
Univ. of Exeter team engineers unique biological pathway for the production of diesel range hydrocarbons by E. coli
April 23, 2013
A team from the University of Exeter (UK), with support from Shell Technology Centre Thorton, has modified strains of E. coli bacteria to produce “petroleum-replica” hydrocarbons in the diesel range. While the technology still faces many significant commercialization challenges, the resulting drop-in fuel is almost identical to conventional diesel fuel and so does not need to be blended with petroleum products as is often required by biodiesels derived from plant oils.
In an open access paper on their work published in the Proceedings of the National Academies of Science, the researchers note that their work—rather than reconstituting existing metabolic routes to alkane production found in nature—demonstrated the ability to design and to implement artificial molecular pathways for the production of renewable, industrially relevant fuel molecules.
DOE awards $10 million to 5 projects for advanced biofuels and bio-based products
January 03, 2013
The US Department of Energy announced more than $10 million in funding to five new projects that will develop new synthetic biological and chemical techniques to convert biomass into advanced biofuels and bioproducts such as plastics and chemical intermediates.
Two of these projects will develop cost-effective ways to produce intermediates from the deconstruction of lignocellulosic biomass, while three projects will propose new conversion techniques to transform biomass intermediates into advanced biofuels and bioproducts.
Proterro secures $3.5M in new funding to advance its noncellulosic sucrose for biofuels and biobased chemicals; progress on patent on sucrose-producing cyanobacteria
December 18, 2012
|Proterro engineered cyanobacteria for continuous high-yield production of sucrose, which can then be used in the production of biofuels and biochemicals. Source: Proterro. Click to enlarge.|
Proterro, Inc.—the only company making sugar instead of extracting it from crops—has closed on a $3.5-million financing round led by current investor Braemar Energy Ventures. Proterro has engineered cyanobacteria (from the group consisting of Synechococcus and Synechocystis) that naturally produce only sucrose to secrete the sucrose in a continuous, high-yield process. The sucrose can then be used in the production of biofuels and biochemicals. (Earlier post.)
In addition, the company announced it has received a notice of allowance from the United States Patent and Trademark Office on a cornerstone composition of matter patent (US Patent Application No. 12/348,887) protecting the company’s sucrose-producing cyanobacteria and their new genetic code.
MIT team develops new synthetic pathway and modular engineering toolkit for direct biosynthesis of odd-chain molecules for fuels and chemicals
November 03, 2012
Researchers at MIT have adapted the butanol pathway for the synthesis of odd-chain molecules and have also developed a complementary modular toolkit to facilitate pathway construction, characterization, and optimization in engineered Escherichia coli bacteria.
The modular nature of the pathway enables multi-entry and multi-exit biosynthesis of various odd-chain compounds at high efficiency. By varying combinations of the pathway and toolkit enzymes, they demonstrated controlled production of propionate, trans-2-pentenoate, valerate, and pentanol—compounds with applications that include biofuels, antibiotics, biopolymers, and aroma chemicals.
Calysta Energy engineering organisms to convert methane to low-cost liquid hydrocarbons; BioGTL process
October 22, 2012
|Calysta is using its proprietary BioGTL biological gas-to-liquids platform to convert natural gas to liquid hydrocarbons. Click to enlarge.|
Start-up Calysta Energy plans to use methane as a feedstock for engineered organisms to produce liquid hydrocarbon fuels and high value chemicals that are cost-effective, scalable and reduce environmental impact.
Current technology approaches to creating new fuels and chemicals have failed to achieve necessary market economics, creating a significant worldwide market opportunity, according to the biotech company. Calysta says that in contrast to current algae- and sugar-based methods, a methane-based biofuel platform is expected to produce fuel at less than half the cost of other biological methods, allowing direct competition with petroleum-based fuels.
Amyris awarded $8M DARPA Living Foundries contract
June 12, 2012
Renewable fuels and chemicals company Amyris, Inc. has been awarded a contract from the US Department of Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) under its Living Foundries program solicitation (earlier post) to develop tools that can expand the scope of Amyris's industrial synthetic biology technology platform across various biological platforms and cell types.
The contract is worth approximately $8 million in funds to Amyris, conditioned on meeting certain technical milestones in connection with the DARPA’s Living Foundries research program, announced in 2011. The Living Foundries program aims to create a rapid, reliable manufacturing capability in which multiple cellular functions can be fabricated, mixed and matched on demand and the whole system controlled by integrated circuitry, opening up the full space of biologically produced materials and systems.
DOE to fund up to $12M in FY 2012 for work on innovative biosynthetic pathways for transformational improvements in biofuels production
May 26, 2012
The US Department of Energy (DOE) is soliciting (DE-FOA-0000719) research projects for up approximately $12 million in awards in FY 2012 for work on biosynthetic pathways for advanced biofuels to demonstrate transformational, not incremental, improvements in yield and productivity.
Synthetic biology technologies hold promise for addressing critical barriers in the biological and chemical production of important advanced biofuels and products, notes the DOE, including such barriers as product inhibition, tolerance to inhibitors, process robustness in the face of complex pretreatment processes and low yields, and productivity of conversion processes. The FOA invites the R&D community to apply these newer techniques to enhance and enable the development in biological or hybrid systems for producing advanced biofuels and high energy impact bio-based products. The focus of the FOA is in two topic areas:
Obama Administration releases National Bioeconomy Blueprint; health, food, energy and environment
April 26, 2012
The White House today released a national Bioeconomy Blueprint, a comprehensive approach to harnessing innovations in biological research to address national challenges in health, food, energy, and the environment. In coordination with the Blueprint’s release, Federal officials also announced a number of new commitments to help achieve the Blueprint’s goals.
The National Bioeconomy Blueprint describes five strategic objectives for a bioeconomy with the potential to generate economic growth and address societal needs. Although progress is being made in all of these areas, according to the Blueprint, much work remains if the United States is to remain competitive. The objectives are:
|
<urn:uuid:a9b1e4c1-f130-458a-a3ab-89ed84a16051>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.greencarcongress.com/synthetic_biology/index.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368701459211/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516105059-00026-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.917995
| 1,521
| 2.328125
| 2
|
January 13, 2012
We studied numerical integration in a previous exercise. In today’s exercise we will look at the inverse operation of numerically calculating a derivative.
The function that interests us in today’s exercise is the XIRR function from Excel, which computes the internal rate of return of a series of cash flows that are not necessarily periodic. The XIRR function calculates the value of x that makes the following equation go to 0, where pi is the ith cash flow, di is the date of the ith cash flow, and d0 is the date of the first cash flow:
The method used to estimate x was devised by Sir Isaac Newton about three hundred years ago. If xn is an approximation to a function, then a better approximation xn+1 is given by
where f'(xn) is the derivative of f at n. Mathematically, the derivative of a function at a given point is the slope of the tangent line at that point. Arithmetically, we calculate the slope of the tangent line by knowing the value of the function at a point x and a nearby point x+ε, then using the equation
to determine the slope of the line. Thus, to find x, pick an initial guess (0.1 or 10% works well for most interest calculations) and iterate until the difference between two successive values is close enough. For example, with payments of -10000, 2750, 4250, 3250, and 2750 on dates 1 Jan 2008, 1 March 2008, 30 October 2008, 15 February 2009, and 1 April 2009, the internal rate of return is 37.3%.
Your task is to write a function that mimics Excel’s XIRR function. When you are finished, you are welcome to read or run a suggested solution, or to post your own solution or discuss the exercise in the comments below.
|
<urn:uuid:90f16fc6-bec6-403c-825c-89fb04447893>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://programmingpraxis.com/2012/01/13/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368696382584/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516092622-00006-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.936637
| 395
| 3.65625
| 4
|
The Technical Education Center (TEC) was built in 1972 and was originally called the Fort Bend Area Career School. It not only housed the Vocational programs for Fort Bend ISD, but students from Alief and Stafford were also permitted to attend. At that time, Fort Bend had only one high school, Dulles. The facility underwent renovations in the early 1990s and was renamed the Technical Education Center (TEC).
The Technical Education Center has students from all of the high schools in Fort Bend ISD. Students are transported by bus to the Center for their program instructional period and then transported back to their home campuses for all of the other courses on their schedules.
High school students today are bombarded with the question, “What are you going to do after graduation?” It’s hard to answer that question if you have not had the opportunity to explore careers. The Technical Education Center offers programs that give students the chance to:
• Explore career oportunities.
• Use State-of-the-Art equipment, as used in today’s work force.
• Earn Articulation/College Now credit from local colleges/universities.
• Utilize skills learned in the TEC programs to earn money to pay for college expenses.
• Prepare for employment upon graduation with skills and Industry Certifications to compete in today's work force.
To get into a program at the Technical Education Center, students must complete an application and return it to the Technical Education Center. Students will then be contacted for an interview and a tour of the facility. Applications may be obtained from the home campus school counselor or the TEC website at www.fortbend.k12.tx.us/campuses/tec.
|
<urn:uuid:99772f8d-95b4-4aee-a197-20d43e1d996a>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://campuses.fortbendisd.com/campuses/tec/about.cfm
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706153698/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516120913-00056-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.969624
| 359
| 2.328125
| 2
|
By Phyllis Howard and Mariann Cigrand
First, read aloud The Underwater Alphabet Book by Jerry Pallotta. Then invite children to write and illustrate their own page for an adorable literature-based collaborative book.
This colorful ABC book introduces more than just letters. Before you begin, tell students that they are about to discover a whole new world! Invite them to guess where they will be going. Then explain that this journey will take place right here on Earth. After reading, have students recall the names of some underwater animals they studied. Show the illustrations and give them the first letter of each name to help them remember, if necessary.
Writing & Art
Have students imagine that they are going on an oceanic journey.What creature would they most like to meet and why? Have them draw the creature in its environment. Then invite students to write about what they drew, describing their creature and why they chose it. Give children the prompt: “I would like to meet a ________________ because ______________.”
|
<urn:uuid:3a6d496d-ac1e-4c1b-8d5f-8c2828e58648>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://teacherexpress.scholastic.com/teaching-format/teaching-with-favorite-books/the-underwater-alphabet-book-collaborative-book
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368703298047/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516112138-00020-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.9392
| 211
| 3.796875
| 4
|
Published July 19, 2012
When it comes to jobs, they say they need everything from A to Z, just like the Yellow Pages.
The once rural town of Williston, N.D., is projected to double -- and maybe even triple -- in the next five years because it is in the heart of what the locals refer to as the rockin' Bakken, an oil and gas rich swath of western North Dakota.
Technical advances in energy exploration and production have made it possible to get much more out of the ground here. As North Dakota has outrun Alaska and leaped into the No. 2 spot for production, it's feeding all sorts of demand in the state with the lowest unemployment in the nation.
Unemployed residents of other states have been migrating to the Peace Garden State in search of work.
"We're able to find workers which, otherwise, if we'd been on full employment, it would have been hard to get people to move to a rural area like this" says Tom Rolfstad, executive director of Williston Economic Development.
The work and business opportunities are wide-ranging and plentiful, but small towns are racing to keep up with demand for housing. For example, Williston put in 2,100 units last year and expects to add 3,500 next year.
"For the most part, everybody's working. To a degree I could even say we have the working homeless, that we have so many workers and not enough housing, that that's our problem with homeless" says Rolfstad. The town has had to regulate where RVs are parked and crack down on sleeping in the parks.
It's not unheard of for people to live out of their cars. The Williston job services office actually has handout information on where to find showers.
While potential for high wages is a draw, Cindy Sanford, with Job Service North Dakota's office in Williston, says many employers are looking for skilled labor, applicants with actual experience and certifications. Just because someone has a welding background does not mean he or she will qualify to weld on an oil company's pipe; the certifications can be very specific.
And it can be more than know-how. A job might require a high level of physical fitness because of the danger involved. Sanford told Fox News that one company requires 34 pushups, followed by planking for 2.5 minutes. The potential employee has to lift arms and legs, one at a time and the chest cannot touch the floor. Right after that, an applicant has to climb a 16-inch step for three minutes without their heart rate going over 85 percent of the person's maximum.
Just about all oil patch jobs require the minimum of a high school diploma or GED. Background checks, drug tests and clean driving records also figure big in one's prospects. Job Service North Dakota has a guide, "North Dakota Oilfield Employment" which which contains drilling basics, occupations, how to apply for jobs and other tips.
The Job Service North Dakota team pointed out efforts are being made to help and recruit veterans. There are waivers to allow those with a military driver's license to skip the road test for a Commercial Drivers License (CDL), therefore making it easier to land a trucking job. Some jobs involve working with explosives, which can be compatible with veterans backgrounds.
Maren Daley, executive director of Job Service North Dakota, says the state's economy is diversified. The oil boom has about one-third of the job openings in the state and it is "...acting sort of like the tip of a pyramid. There's all of this oil activity and a lot of really good jobs closely tied to oil, but with that the influx of people to those oil areas, it has the impact of creating more jobs in other industries such as transportation, food service, hospitality."
Rolfstad echoes the fact there's a nationwide, even worldwide, ripple effect from the energy boom. "We drilled 2,100 wells last year ... and so we did 8,400 miles of pipe last year. Now if that didn't help Pittsburgh, I don't know what would." He noted brand-new trucks are on the roads, power lines and construction mean more lumber has to be produced. The oil business means lots of tools on the job.
"I think what's good for us is good for the country and, uh, we have employees from all over. We have investors from all over the country, so we're part of the big symbiotic relationship across the country and we couldn't do it alone without the rest of our country working with us."
|
<urn:uuid:be206330-d245-4a9d-88d5-e18520cb4595>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/07/19/on-job-hunt-boom-in-oil-industry-makes-north-dakota-rich-in-jobs/print
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706499548/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516121459-00068-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.963168
| 941
| 1.921875
| 2
|
Solana Pacific community takes on Amazing Quest
Teams from Solana Pacific School were tested in their yogurt creation skills, tie-tying ability and found out whether or not they are Vulcans last Friday in the Amazing Quest to Save a Teacher.
The teams took off from the school’s athletic field. It was a mad dash for clues and an exercise in team building as each group raced to complete their challenges.
Lynne Bath organized the event, a fundraiser for Solana Pacific. She has had three children attend Solana Pacific – her oldest is now in sixth grade. She had the idea for the Amazing Quest challenges three years ago when she organized the first fundraiser of this kind for the school. The idea was inspired by popular reality TV shows, “Amazing Race” and “Survivor.”
Since she’d turned the idea into her own company, Amazing Quest LLC. She now professionally organizes fundraisers for charity groups and for corporate team-building events.
Two hundred people on 38 teams competed in the race, which involved 798 clues and stops at 21 stations.
The fifth- and sixth-grade teacher teams crossed the finish line close together. But the sixth-grade teacher team did not have their balloon from Red Robin, so the crowd voted to crown the fifth-grade teacher team the winners.
The family teams came in with the Ham family in first place, the Glenn family in second and Jackie and Harrison Cohen, Randy and Bailey Buckley, Christian Grange and Andre Reed in third.
- Scientists place 12th in Olympiad
- Parker strong in Olympiad
- Rally for Miracle League
- Community help sought for next disaster
- ‘South Pacific’ opens at Canyon Crest Academy
Short URL: http://www.delmartimes.net/?p=6917
|
<urn:uuid:9b607e17-a471-4c56-81b7-1fc405f4c7cb>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.delmartimes.net/2009/05/21/solana-pacific-community-takes-on-amazing-quest/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706499548/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516121459-00010-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.96588
| 379
| 1.664063
| 2
|
Pacific or Olive Ridley Turtle
The Olive (Pacific) Ridley Turtle is listed as endangered. It is the smallest sea turtle, and is not commonly seen and nests in low numbers along the Gulf coast of Queensland. Their heads are large and massive.
In Australia, major breeding aggregations occur along the coast from southern Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef, northwards to Torres Strait, the Gulf of Papua, Gulf of Carpentaria, Arafura Sea and Joseph Bonaparte Gulf in Western Australia.
Hatchlings are dark gray with a pale yolk scar, but appear all black when wet. Olive ridley turtles are best known for their behaviour of synchronized nesting in mass numbers, termed arribadas.
Adults measure 60 to70 cm in carapace length. Adults weigh between 35 and 45 kg.
They have powerful jaws that allow for an omnivore diet of crustaceans (such as shrimp & crabs), mollusks, jellyfish, tunicates, fish, crabs, rock lobsters and shrimp. They will feed on feed on filamentous algae in areaswhere other food sources are scarce.
Hatchlings are preyed upon as they travel across the beach to the water bymany animals including vultures, frigate birds, crabs, raccoons, coyotes, Iguanas, and snakes. In the water, hatchling predators likely include oceanic fishes, sharks and crocodiles
Generally found in coastal bays and estuaries, but can be very oceanic over some parts of its range. They typically forage off shore in surface waters or dive to depths of 500 feet (150 m) to feed on bottom dwelling crustaceans. The olive ridley inhabits tropical and subtropical waters of the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic Oceans.
|
<urn:uuid:2b0b22ff-b409-448c-9e71-0dd49eda4af6>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://mesa.edu.au/turtles/turtles12.asp
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368710006682/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516131326-00040-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.922687
| 367
| 3.484375
| 3
|
Where is Ottawa?
Ottawa lies in northeast North America, in the Province of Ontario,
Canada. It is bordered by the Ottawa River to the north, while the
historic Rideau River and Rideau Canal meander north to south through
the city. Directly across the Ottawa River are the City of Gatineau
and the picturesque Outaouais region in the Province of Québec.
Distances to Ottawa
New York City
Ottawa can be found at Latitude 45° 22' N and Longitude 75° 43'
W, and it is 114 metres (374 feet) above sea level.
What does Ottawa look like?
Ottawa, Canada is a picturesque city with beautiful waterways,
historic architecture, and an abundance of parklands and open spaces.
Check out the links below to see some still and moving images of
How do I get to Ottawa?
Ottawa is easily accessible by air, rail or road.
Ottawa by air
Check with your favourite airline for daily flights into the Ottawa
International Airport, or visit the airport website for information about the airport,
directions and flights. The Airport operates on a 24-hour basis,
and offers a number of daily scheduled non-stop flights to cities
in Canada, U.S. and Europe. The airport recently unveiled its new
terminal, which includes its own U.S. Customs and Immigration pre-clearance
Two small airports complement the Ottawa region’s air capacity.
The Carp Airport has evolved into a commuter airport,
conveniently located close to many of the high-technology industries
in the west part of the region. The Gatineau-Ottawa Executive Airport serves the
Outaouais region and other areas of Québec.
All three airports provide access to, and services for, corporate
Ottawa by train
Ottawa’s VIA Rail
terminal is centrally located, and you can visit their website
to book your travel to Ottawa.
Ottawa by bus
The City’s bus terminal is close to downtown, and is served
by both Greyhound Canada serving western and central Canada
with links to the U.S., and Voyageur Colonial, serving western
Québec and Eastern Ontario.
Ottawa by car
For directions by road, please visit www.maps.google.com and search on Ottawa, ON.
Ottawa by boat
Ottawa can be accessed by four main waterways: the Ottawa River
(flowing into the St. Lawrence River), the Rideau River (flowing
into the Ottawa River), the Gatineau River (flowing into the
Ottawa River) and the Rideau Canal (linking Lake Ontario at
Kingston to the Ottawa River)..
How large is the city?
Ottawa is Canada’s fourth largest city with over 1.2 million residents.
The size of the Ottawa region is 4,662 square kilometres (1,800
square miles), with over 90% of its area being in a country setting.
While it is large enough to support the finest amenities, such as
world-class entertainment venues and shopping districts, Ottawa
retains the warmth and charm of a quaint European city.
What is Ottawa’s climate like?
Ottawa’s four seasons provide an exhilarating canvas of colour,
beauty, and recreational activity. Spring, summer, fall and winter
are welcomed, and the changing seasons are an integral part of living
in our city.
Temperatures can range from 33° C (91° F) in summer to –40° C (-40°
F) in winter, with average summer temperatures around 20°C (68°
F) and average winter temperatures around –10° C (14° F). In summer,
it is hot enough for residents to seek the nearest lake or swimming
pool to cool off, while in winter, warm clothing is required. Both
spring and fall are cool, and residents usually wear a sweater or
light jacket. While cycling, swimming, tennis, golf and whitewater
rafting are favoured activities in summer, winter’s white beauty
offers its own recreational opportunities for skiing, snowboarding,
skating, tobogganing and snowmobiling.
Check out today’s weather in Ottawa by visiting the Ottawa Weather section at Ottawakiosk.com
Is Ottawa a good place to
Ottawa is a “Bright City”. It is one of the world’s safest and
most beautiful communities in which to live, work, learn, play,
and raise a family. The city prides itself on its quality of life.
It is home to a wide range of age groups from families with children
to adult professionals to university students and senior citizens.
As a G8 capital city, Ottawa is Canada’s showcase city to the world.
It is endowed with a number of national museums and performing arts
institutions, as well as a rich local cultural and heritage fabric.
The city is graced with a civic design that places high priority
on green spaces, parklands and trails, making Ottawa a bright and
beautiful landscape for all to enjoy.
The city's academic foundations -- from its strong public school
system to universities, colleges and R&D centres of excellence
-- contribute to Ottawa having the highest educated workforce in
Canada. A bright workforce is a key foundation for a smart city
and business success.
Ottawa offers a wealth of choices in employment opportunities,
from the federal government to the high technology and life sciences
sectors, to professional services and the tourism and convention
industry. Ottawa offers a bright future for all.
do I contact the local government?
The City of Ottawa’s municipal government is centralized under
the auspices of an elected Mayor and Councillors representing 21
Wards. Visit the City’s website
for information and contact details.
What kinds of businesses
are in Ottawa?
The Ottawa region has three basic types of economic market sectors:
export companies serving markets all around the world; regionally
focused companies serving Ottawa residents, and businesses; and
our rural economy.
Ottawa is a global technology and business centre as well as a
world class tourism and convention destination. More than 1500 companies
are involved in key growth sectors such as telecommunications, software,
photonics, semiconductors, defence and security, life sciences,
tourism, wireless technologies, film and video, multimedia, professional
services and contact centres. The region also benefits from the
entry of new seed industry sectors such as biophotonics, environmental
technologies, electronic pay systems, and micro electromechanical
Ottawa is home to dozens of federal government organizations, as
well as scores of foreign embassies who provide trade links to their
own domestic businesses. On the regional front, Ottawa benefits
from a rich array of retail, hospitality and service companies.
Ottawa is also the agricultural capital and economic centre of Eastern
How can I set up a business
There are a number of resources available to help you set up your
business in Ottawa.
When is the best time to visit
In Ottawa, there are exciting things to see and do all through
the year. The region’s extensive activities calendar offers a wide
array of business, leisure and cultural activities that will delight
all the members of your party. Visit the Ottawa Tourism website and you’ll find that it is
always a good time to visit Ottawa.
Learn more about all that Ottawa has to offer you and your
|
<urn:uuid:b14bad7b-63a2-44ec-abc0-b287f2b34313>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.ottawaliving.ca/ottawa-faq.php
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368708142388/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516124222-00023-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.921965
| 1,602
| 2.828125
| 3
|
1. Whoah! For a 3 dollar cup of coffee, a farmer gets only 3 cents!!!! Watch this documentary (Black Gold Movie), no, find the link to the documentary at the end of the post. Because once you go there, you will not finish reading the facts I have put together. This is fresh information that just came in. Coffee is grown on trees…oops, I meant it grows on trees. Starbucks Coffee, Green Mountain Coffee, Dunkin’ Donuts, Sheetz or any other coffee shop near you that comes to mind when you think about coffee do not own coffee gardens. But they know who grows it and they know how to get it.
2. Second only to oil, coffee is the most sought after commodity in the whole world. Coffee is the most necessary of all “evils.” Water would be the first, except that it is still free in most places.
3. More than 25 million farmers around the world survive on planting, harvesting and selling coffee. Coffee agriculture can not be mechanized because it is very labor intensive. This doesn’t make any difference for most of Africa and the African small farmers who lack agricultural mechanization.
4. Brazil is the world’s largest producer of coffee. May be that’s why the economy is booming. WRONG. In fact, most Brazilian farmers have gone to the cities and into slum dwelling because when a trade embargo was lifted from Vietnam, they cut (in some major way) Brazil’s market share. Did you know that Vietnam will be the world’s 17th biggest economy by 2025? Coffee? WRONG! Other top producers of coffee are Colombia at number two (then why the drugs?), Indonesia, and India.
5. I heard/read that George Washington invented coffee.Yeah, it is true. He invented instant coffee - the mass produced one. Not the American George, though. This was an englishman called George Constant Washington. Some guy called Satori Kato of Chicago had beaten George to inventing instant coffee “just add water” and just before that God had invented the coffee been. But I bet some of our people in Africa or Brazil might already have been drinking their instant coffee. Think about it, John Speke discovered the Nile while the King of Bujagali and his spirits were in deep slumber.
6. The first time I read the word Mocha I read it as MO-CHA. Speak the CHA as if you are saying the name CHAN without the N. I was at a restaurant and I said I would have a “MOCHAN (without the N). I repeated this to the waitress 10 times before I wrote it on a napkin. I am African, for us it is MOCHAN (without the N). After all we discovered it, huh?
7. The best coffee comes from Uganda! This is a fact. If you dispute, show me your own facts. Africa is not just Africa. Africa is Africa. Everything that comes from African soil is awesome. The coffee, the cocoa, the gold, the diamonds, and Adam. According to National Geographic, Ethiopia, Cote D’ivoire (Ivory Coast) and Uganda are the only African countries in the world’s top ten coffee producing countries. But there is not even a single Starbucks Coffee or Dunkin Donuts or anything. That’s good because the farmers sell all their coffee so they can get money…so Ugandan farmers must be rich! WRONG.
8. Like oil, coffee is addictive. Wiki says “over 2.25 billion cups of coffee are consumed in the world every day.” How do you explain that? And it’s not free. So African small farmers and other coffee farmers else where must be rich! WRONG.
9. African coffee farmers can become wealthy. If we support African small farmers, they can become wealthy, i.e they can earn a good income, educate their children, provide health care for their families, and generally become free. Supporting African farmers involves organizing them to plant an acre of coffee, training them in best practices, and sourcing a market that pays them very fairly. A Ugandan coffee farmer could potentially earn about $5,000 from one acre of coffee each years. If you want to know more about how you can get involved in this, please contact me.
10. Coffee is sour. That is why if I really want to support our African farmers through Starbucks, I drink mocha (read it as Mochan – without the n). But according to many credible reports including these ones from the New York Times and from the UK’s The Guardian newspaper, African farmers are losing their land in massive forced displacements from “investors”, hedge funds, and even to Universities such as the great and mighty Harvard University! Soon, the coffee you drink may not be from a real african small farmer. We can do something about it. Let us help african farmers. Please contact me! This is critical. Read my article on this topic at Africa on the Blog here.
Here is the link to the Black Gold documentary movie. It will change your perspective. Help us help African farmers. Contact me! Time is of the essence!
|
<urn:uuid:75bfa7d0-19ed-4168-a72c-50fc33c3fa89>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://andykristian.com/2011/10/22/ten-facts-about-coffee/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706499548/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516121459-00035-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.959068
| 1,095
| 1.820313
| 2
|
Bologna, Itlay Another earthquake has rattled Northern Italy leaving at least 10 people dead. Italian officials say a magnitude 5.8 earthquake struck close to the Northwest city of Bologna, Italy. That's the same region where a stronger quake measuring 6.0 killed 7 people earlier this month. As many as 7,000 are displaced as a result of the quake and the death toll is expected to rise.
Meet The Team
Take a moment to meet WMBD 31's team. Click here to learn more about the people who are "Taking Action for You!"
|
<urn:uuid:adf7fc5c-f69d-46e6-9ae6-bee29e0b6b6d>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://centralillinoisproud.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=249192
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368696382584/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516092622-00069-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.95642
| 117
| 1.507813
| 2
|
The predominant trend in U.S. production of large blow molded parts (not bottles) has been flat to downward in 2007, and this will not change much through the early part of 2008. However, as next year progresses, a combination of moderately declining resin prices and gradual growth in overall U.S. manufacturing will encourage demand for large blow molded products, especially in the second half. Overall growth for 2008 is expected to be 5% to 7%.
The pattern in the historical data for industrial blow molding output is similar to that of many injection molded and extruded products, but the blow molding data have been more volatile. During the second half of the 1990s, demand for large blow molded items increased rapidly. Production volume of these goods increased by an average of 6% to 8% per year, while the shipments’ value was rising by an average of nearly 15%/yr. But since 2001, the average annual growth rates for both the total volume and value of many types of large blow molded products have been flat or even down.
So far this decade, blow molders have been buffeted by three significant negative factors. The first was the cyclical downturn in demand that resulted from the recession in the U.S. economy in late 2000 and early 2001. The second blow was the emergence of countries like China as low-cost suppliers of many types of blow molded products. And though the last recession in the U.S. economy ended about six years ago, many sectors of domestic blow molding have yet to return to the levels seen during the ’90s. The toy industry is one of the largest and best-known examples of the demise of domestic blow molding. But there has also been significant consolidation in the auto parts sector, and much slower growth in demand for non-auto parts. The third factor that has weighed down blow molding production is the high price of resins in recent years.
A couple of segments of the blow molding business merit closer scrutiny, based on recent trends. The first is industrial drums. These products are made primarily of HDPE, and the sharp increase in the price of steel in recent years has made plastic drums an attractive substitute for many applications. As was the case for most other blow molded products, the output of plastic drums hit a cyclical peak in early 2000. Production fell sharply in 2001 and stayed down in 2002 and 2003. But this sector bucked the trend in 2004, when demand jumped sharply. After a small decline in 2005, output of industrial drums has grown by nearly 8% in both 2006 and so far in 2007. Growth is expected to decelerate to a still respectable 5% in 2008.
The second segment that bears notice is automotive fuel tanks. Unlike most other types of blow molded products, production of plastic gas tanks did not hit a cyclical peak in 2000. If anything, output levels accelerated during the recession and continued to grow rapidly through 2004. In the first four years of this decade, plastic fuel tank production grew at an average rate of more than 15% per year. The rate declined moderately in 2005 and 2006, but it has held steady so far in 2007.
As might be expected, demand for fuel tanks is affected by the overall cyclical trend in demand for cars and trucks. But progress in both chemical resistance and barrier properties of the plastic tank structures have been, and may continue to be, the more important factors in determining future production. The costs of substitute materials such as steel will also play a role. This sector may yet reinvent itself and rocket up rapidly. Even based only on the latest historical trends, 2008 will likely be a year of positive growth for blow molded gas tanks. Our current forecast calls for a gain of 5%.
Bill Wood, an independent economist specializing in the plastics industry, heads up Mountaintop Economics & Research, Inc. in Greenfield, Mass. He can be contacted by e-mail at BillWood@PlasticsEconomics.com. His monthly Injection Molding and Extrusion Business Indexes are available at www.ptonline.com.
|
<urn:uuid:5b840b72-d43e-4877-801e-e99fa0e543a6>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.ptonline.com/articles/your-busines-outlook---november-2007
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368696381249/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516092621-00013-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.962581
| 831
| 1.84375
| 2
|
Veterans Feel Coalition Salaries are Unnecessary
A group of veterans says money being given to the Laredo Veterans Coalition is being wasted, money that could be going back to those men and women coming home after serving overseas. Our Ryan Bailey has more.
The South Texas Afghanistan Iraq Veterans Association feels money being giving to veterans by the city and county is going to waste in salaries to run the Laredo Veterans Coalition.
"We believe that's wrong, that we can have a plan where we can save enormous amount of money and distribute it to the veterans to provide services directly."
Lopez says over $60,000 a year goes to pay for salaries that are not necessary.
"We don't have to have an executive director on the pay and we don't have to have secretaries."
Instead he says there are veterans at L.C.C. that could easily be used in their place.
"They can supplement their income by using the V.A. work study while also helping local veterans."
But it will take more than just a couple veterans in college to get the job done, the rest of the officers with the coalition will have to step up and take on more responsibility.
"If the officers will make a commitment to really serve the veterans pro-bono, then that would be wonderful. But it takes a commitment from dedicated veterans that really want to help and not just be there for a paycheck."
Ryan Bailey, Laredo's pro 8 news.
Lopez says the money they would save by going to this plan would help at least another 200 veterans in the Laredo area. Our calls to the Laredo Veteran’s Coalition went unanswered but we will continue to follow up with them tomorrow.
|
<urn:uuid:3e0525fc-1730-4a1a-8b2c-30bb906ea3b5>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.pro8news.com/news/blog/Veterans-Feel-Coalition-Salaries-are-Unnecessary-123071133.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368697380733/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516094300-00017-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.971364
| 358
| 1.5625
| 2
|
May 26, 2013 | 03:34 PM (BD Time)
26 May, 2013 Sunday
Agri innovations protecting the environment
Washington, D.C.- For the last 40 years, Earth Day has been celebrated around the world to call attention to some of our most pressing environmental and social problems, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and dwindling natural resources.
This year, the Worldwatch Institute's Nourishing the Planet highlights 15 agricultural innovations that are already working on the ground to
address some of those problems.
"Agriculture provides food for all of us and income for more than 1 billion people around the world," said Danielle Nierenberg, director of Worldwatch's Nourishing the Planet project. "Relatively simple innovations to reduce the amount of food we waste, or to help the urban poor become more self-sufficient, can help agriculture feed the world without destroying the planet. The progress we have witnessed in
these areas over the last year is definitely encouraging."
The 15 innovations are used by farmers, scientists, activists, politicians, and businesses and promote a healthier environment and a more food-secure future.
1. Guaranteeing the Right to Food. Some 1 billion people worldwide experience chronic hunger, and 98 percent of these people live in developing countries. To combat hunger
in rural or remote communities, the Brazilian government operates the Food Acquisition Program, which funds local organizations, including community kitchens, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and schools, to buy and distribute fruits, vegetables, and animal products from smallholder farmers in their region.
2. Harnessing the Nutritional and Economic Potential of Vegetables. Micronutrient deficiencies, including lack of vitamin A, iodine, and iron, affect 1 billion people
worldwide and stem partly from a lack of variety in people's diets. Slow Food International
works to broaden diets, and preserve biodiversity, by helping farmers grow local and indigenous varieties of fruits and vegetables, organizing cooking workshops, and helping producers get access to traditional seeds.
3. Reducing Food Waste. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates that roughly a third of food produced for human consumption is lost or wasted globally, which amounts to about 1.3 billion tons per year. In New York City, City Harvest collects nearly 28 million pounds of excess food each year from restaurants, grocers, corporate cafeterias, manufacturers, and farms and delivers it to some 600 local food programs.
4. Feeding Cities. Poor urban households spend from 60 to 80 percent of their income on food, putting them at risk of hunger or malnutrition when food prices rise or their incomes fall. The French non-governmental organization Solidarités has provided women in Kibera, an urban slum in Nairobi, Kenya, with training, seeds, and sacks to grow vegetables in "vertical farms," a space-efficient way to increase food security in cities.
5. Getting More Crop per Drop. Millions of farmers, including the majority of farmers in sub-Saharan Africa, depend on rainfall to water their crops----which climate
scientists predict will decline in coming decades. The company International Development
Enterprises sells simple and inexpensive irrigation systems to farmers in Zambia, India, and other countries. Their systems include a treadle pump that draws water from underground without the use of fossil fuels, and a drip irrigation kit that costs just US$5 can efficiently water 20 square meters.
6. Using Farmers' Knowledge in Research and Development. Many agricultural research and development programs exclude smallholder farmers. But in Kenya, the Muyafwa
Development Program, with help from the U.S.-based nonprofit World Neighbors, involves
local farmers in comparing a newly introduced sweet potato variety with the existing indigenous one----ensuring detailed and accurate feedback on the productivity, taste, storability, and hardiness of each variety.
7. Improving Soil Fertility. Each year, more than 29 million acres, or enough land to grow 20 million tons of grain, turn into deserts. To combat desertification and land degradation, the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics is training farmers in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to apply small and targeted quantities of fertilizer to crops at planting time or soon after. This has increased yields of the staple crops sorghum and millet by between 44 and 120 percent.
8. Safeguarding Local Food Biodiversity. According to the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment,
a quarter of the world's known plant species----some 60,000 to 100,000 species----are threatened with extinction, while soy, wheat, and maize become more and more prevalent in people's everyday diets. In Norway, the Svalbard Global Seed Vault protects thousands of seed varieties that farmers in developing countries can use to help re-harvest crops that have been affected by disease, climate, or conflict.
9. Coping with Climate Change and Building Resilience. Global climate change will negatively affect agriculture by reducing soil fertility and decreasing crop yields. In preparation for these impacts, and in response to the land degradation that has already occurred, farmers in Niger have planted nearly 5 million hectares of trees that conserve water, prevent soil erosion, and sequester carbon, making their farms more productive and drought-resistant without the use of chemicals.
10. Harnessing the Knowledge and Skills of Women Farmers. Women farmers face a variety
of obstacles, including a lack of access to information technology, agricultural training, financial services, and support networks like co-operatives or trade unions. The Self Employed Women's Association (SEWA), a female trade union in India that began in 1992, helps poor, self-employed women achieve full employment and self-reliance by linking them to markets, banks, co-operatives, and self-help groups.
11. Investing in Africa's Land. Governments and private investors are acquiring large swathes of agricultural land around the world at very low or no cost, particularly in Africa and Asia----often displacing indigenous peoples.
In Ethiopia's Rift Valley, African farmers and foreign investing companies have reached a compromise: farmers grow green beans for the Dutch market during the European winter months, but cultivate corn and other crops for local consumption during the remaining months.
12. Charting a New Path to Eliminating Hunger. Reactive measures to famines and natural disasters, including sending shipments of vitamin-fortified, pre-packaged food, too often replace preventative measures like investing in sustainable agricultural systems or building infrastructure to transport food to remote communities in developing
countries. The UN World Food Programme has developed the Purchase for Progress program,
which buys fresh produce directly from local farmers and distributes it as food aid both within the farmers' country and abroad.
13. Improving Food Production from Livestock. The FAO estimates that 21 percent of the world's livestock breeds are at risk of extinction. But in India, farmers in the state of Andhra Pradesh are improving the quality of their feed by using
grass, sorghum, stover, and brans to produce more milk from fewer animals, demonstrating
that animal husbandry can provide an income without harming the environment.
14. Going beyond Production. Although scarcity and famine dominate the discussion of food security in developing countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, many countries are unequipped to deal with the crop surpluses that lead to low commodity prices and food waste. In Uganda, the organization TechnoServe has helped to improve market conditions for banana farmers by
Art and Culture
Focus on Chittagong
Fashion & Beauty
Food and Drink
Law and Justice
New Nation Supplement
Editor: Mostafa Kamal Majumder, Adviser Editor: A.M. Mufazzal, Printed and Published by Mainul Hosein from the New Nation Printing Press, 1.R.K Mission Road, Dhaka-1203 Phones: New Nation PABX: 7122654, 7114514, 7122655, Fax: 880-2-7122650, 9512775 email: email@example.com, firstname.lastname@example.org for advertisement, email@example.com
|
<urn:uuid:f1cdf1d7-a1da-4d70-a684-854ef922c5a0>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://thenewnationbd.com/newsdetails.aspx?newsid=37413
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706890813/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516122130-00070-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.912714
| 1,697
| 3.109375
| 3
|
There is a lot of talk about wind energy and "FutureGen," the clean coal plant, as being the future of energy in Illinois.
But, the state of Illinois gets a majority of its electrical power from nuclear energy.
Illinois has more nuclear plants than any other state- six power plants, eleven reactors.
The closest is in Clinton, producing enough electricity to power a million homes.
The big blue plant that is the Clinton power station is easily seen off Illinois route 54.
Some of the 700 men and woman who work there will tell you their friends and neighbors don't know there is a nuclear plant in Dewitt County, and when told so, make nervous comments about workers glowing in the dark.
This week, local folks were invited to Clinton to get an idea of what goes on at the plant.
During a tour of a mock-up of the plant's control center, the question of plant safety was inevitable.
People had questions like, "How much of the systems are manual versus automatic, as far as safety is concerned?"
"All of the safety systems are designed to operate as if the whole control room team had been taken out by a terrorist," answered officials.
September 11th changed a lot of things at Clinton, the most visible being their towers.
Behind the darkened windows, armed security can see all around the plant.
"For years and years and years, this industry was concerned about what might happen because of malfunctions or whatever internally," said Bill Harris, Clinton Power Plant Communications Manager. "Unfortunately, after 9/11, we started thinking about what happens externally."
Harris is retired military.
Many of the employees get into the industry by way of the U.S. Navy's nuclear program.
"All of these barriers you can see, lots and lots and lots of barriers, physical steel reinforced barriers and the razor wire and the cattle-gates or turnstiles. Plus we have sniffers. We have metal detectors, and we have X-Ray machines." said Harris.
And behind these doors is what all that razor wire, guns and surveillance is to protect: the reactor core.
The room below the "blue dome" is where few are allowed or stay longer than necessary.
Sixty feet below this water (see picture) is a controlled nuclear reaction, powered by bundles of uranium pellets protected by a stainless steel core eight inches thick.
The chain reaction inside the core generates heat.
Water circulating through the reactor then creates steam.
That steam then powers a generator to make electricity, a huge assembly inside a very large room inside a concrete wall.
Clinton has been on-line since 1987, the same year the Illinois General Assembly passed legislation requiring the federal government to come up with a storage solution for radioactive waste before new plants could be built in Illinois.
So, the radioactive waste generated at Clinton stays at Clinton.
Bill Harris sees that as a glass half-full, saying there could come a time when those spent fuel rods could be reused.
"There’s about ninety percent of the energy in one of those modules remaining after operating for two years in the reactor," said Harris. "There may be a chance that at some point in time we can recycle."
As former President George W. Bush said, “It’s time for this country to start building nuclear power plants again."
Barack Obama has also been pushing for more nuclear plants, but the future of nuclear power in America remains cloudy.
The problem facing the nuclear power industry is that these plants are so incredibly, incredibly expensive to build.
According to Obama, $8 billion.
That’s how much money the administration is guaranteeing in loans to build the first nuclear plants in 30 years.
However, nuclear energy must now compete with wind and solar power, as well as coal and natural gas power plants.
"You know, I think everybody in this industry is kind of learning right now about just what the United States needs to face the energy demands it has."
One example: Exelon, the owner of the Clinton nuclear power plant, just bought 36 wind farms.
The cost of those wind farms... $900 million.
The cost to build Clinton- $2.6 billion- 23 years ago.
|
<urn:uuid:184ca89e-540c-4c03-9f24-9b82597c288d>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.cinewsnow.com/news/gallery/Future-of-Energy-Remains-Cloudy-107385413.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706499548/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516121459-00067-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.958664
| 879
| 2.5625
| 3
|
Remove Trees Safely
If you plan to remove a small or midsize tree from your landscape, don't cut completely through the tree until it begins to fall. Instead, stop short and hammer in a wedge (or two) to force the tree over. This way, you'll have more control over the tree and be in a better position to move away as it falls.
Save Time with Tarps
My tarp saves me a world of trouble in the garden. I use it when pruning to catch trimmings, when clearing beds to hold compost-bound debris, and when planting to keep loose soil in one place. A tarp makes cleanup of these jobs quick and easy, a real boon after a hard morning's work.
Balance Wheelbarrow Loads
A wheelbarrow is an indispensable garden tool, but you'll be in a fix if you don't take time to balance a load properly. When moving varied objects, always put the heaviest in the center front. Then lift slowly, testing stability before moving forward.
Many gardeners like to add boulders to a naturalistic planting. When plopped on the ground, however, these large ornaments look anything but natural. To achieve the desired guise, boulders should be "planted" so that one-third to one-half of the rock is below ground level.
Be Consistent with Design
The key to creating a good garden design is to pick an overall scheme and stick with it. Be consistent with your theme (formal or naturalistic, contemporary or rustic), your choice of materials, and the plants that enhance and work with the site. The most authentic gardens will be simple, subtle, and cohesive.
|
<urn:uuid:0105861a-954a-491f-ba46-4d90624488ad>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.garden.org/regional/report/arch/reminders/4002
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368710006682/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516131326-00054-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.922139
| 349
| 2.65625
| 3
|
Cantaloupe contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes killed 29 people in the U.S. this year in the deadliest foodborne outbreak since 1924, but the pathogen usually strikes in less public ways, quietly sickening an average of 1,600 people per year, according to the CDC. The authors of a study in mBio this week screened 57,000 small molecules to find one compound that can stop Listeria in its tracks. This needle-in-the-haystack approach has turned up a compound that could lead to novel therapeutics for listeriosis and other infections.
Palmer et al. targeted an Achilles tendon for many Gram positive bacteria, the stress responsive alternative sigma factor “σB”, since it poses a small target that, when struck, could bring down the entire pathogen. In Listeria, the σB gene controls the transcription of more than 150 other genes, many of which contribute to virulence and survival inside the human host. After screening tens of thousands of different small molecules, both synthetic and natural, for their activity against σB, the authors settled on fluoro-phenyl-styrene-sulfonamide (FPSS), a compound that specifically inhibits activity of σB and doesn’t pack any nasty side effects for mammalian cells. This shuts down many of Listeria’s virulence factors and inhibits invasion of the intestinal lining. As a bonus, FPSS could well prove effective against other pathogens that rely on σB, including Staphylococcus aureus (the cause of a wide range of maladies, from pimples to pneumonia) and Bacillus anthracis (the delightful bacterium that brought you Anthrax).
The authors point out that FPSS could serve not only as a therapeutic, but also as a tool for studying the regulatory networks that enable Listeria and other Gram-positive pathogens to invade and take advantage of the human host. An ongoing problem that has come to the public’s attention only when hundreds were sickened in the outbreak earlier this year, perhaps listeriosis is overdue for this exploration and for some new antibiotic therapy options.
|
<urn:uuid:a1d900d7-b594-484c-81d0-1f0e857d0944>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://mbioblog.asm.org/mbiosphere/2011/12/mbio-study-new-compound-to-control-listeria.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368702448584/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516110728-00033-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.944457
| 455
| 3.21875
| 3
|
Council cover-up over voting methods
Brussels - WWF has accused the EU Council of Ministers of mounting “a damaging cover-up” over its decision-making procedures following a refusal by the institution today to release in full an in-house legal opinion on when to use qualified majority voting to adopt ‘conclusions’.The decision, formally answering WWF’s second transparency appeal on the issue, was taken at the start of the Economic and Financial Affairs Council without debate (links to the WWF application and the Council’s final draft reply).
Six member states voted against the decision, stating jointly that they “cannot fully agree with the reasoning regarding the overall sensitive nature of the legal advice or with the reasoning regarding the absence of an overriding public interest in disclosure”. In a preceding case, the Council had tried to claim no such document existed.
“By keeping this document secret, and against a clear overriding public interest, the Council has mounted a damaging cover-up,” said Mark Johnston, senior adviser at WWF European Policy Office. “If majority voting were to have been used, then vital new domestic energy and climate policies would have won Council backing and Europe’s position in UN negotiations would be much stronger. Citizen’s rights to both transparent accountable public administration and to effective environmental protection cannot continue to be harmed so significantly.”
WWF began using EU freedom of information law to probe Council decision-making methods in June, after conclusions on long-term climate and energy 2050 Roadmaps were vetoed for a third time by a single member state.
Article 16 of the Treaty on European Union states that: “The Council shall act by a qualified majority except where the Treaties provide otherwise.” So far the Council has failed to explain in any official document why this requirement is not being met.
“Replacement” legal advice also sought
On 16 October 2012, as a result of questions by several MEPs and by WWF, the Council’s legal service introduced a different opinion on the adoption of conclusions (link to document 15018/12). The legal service claims that the new document “replaces” the 2004 advice and is necessary due to the entry into force in 2009 of the Lisbon Treaty.
However, no specific reasons or references are provided to justify the claim that the Lisbon Treaty has had any material impact on the issue at hand. The new legal advice remains confidential at the present time, but is also subject to a new and more recent transparency application by WWF. This third case is expected to conclude in December or January.
Note to editors:
1. Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Netherland, Slovenia and Sweden.
For further information:
|
<urn:uuid:178adaa6-69cc-409a-bf7a-ffd49a54ee22>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://wwf.panda.org/what_we_do/how_we_work/policy/conventions/climate/cop_17_durban/?206707/Council-cover-up-over-voting-methods
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368705953421/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516120553-00044-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.960443
| 563
| 1.804688
| 2
|
What are Insect Bites?
Summertime is that time of the year when you are most likely to be bitten by all sorts of insects. An insect bite is characterized by a small, red lump or raised puncture which causes itchiness. Insects such as lice, mites, fleas, bedbugs, mosquitoes, spiders or scorpions are capable of injecting venom into humans and animals when they bite.
This venom contains proteins and other substances such as histamine that trigger an allergic reaction. Some people are more sensitive to insect bites than others, and often react badly to them. When you are bitten for the first time, a local reaction occurs depending on your level of sensitivity. If you are continuously exposed to insect bites, you may become immune to the bite and have no reaction at all.
Symptoms and signs
The common symptoms and signs of an insect bite include:
- Redness and swelling
- May develop into a weal (inflamed area may be filled with fluid)
If you experience symptoms after being bitten by an insect such as swelling, the bite does not clear up after two days and develops into a rash, flu-like symptoms as well as swollen glands, you should consult with a doctor immediately.
What Causes Insect Bites?
There are a number of factors that may contribute to being bitten by an insect and these include:
- Unsanitary living conditions, especially where overcrowding occurs
- Pets such as dogs and fleas are often flea infested
- Occupations such as landscapers, gardeners or forestry workers are most at risk of being bitten by ticks. People who work in warehouses, factories or on the docks are also at risk of being bitten by mites
- Participate in outdoor activities such as camping or hiking
- Travel bites are caused by insects when traveling to foreign destinations
- Old furniture and upholstery may contain bedbugs
Diagnosing Insect Bites
The diagnosis of an insect bite is usually based on your physical symptoms. To confirm a diagnosis, your doctor will check if your skin is irritated as a result scratching or rubbing of the area. If your symptoms are more severe, a fever may occur.
Occasionally, a bullous reaction (fluid-filled blisters) may develop in the lower legs of children. Another condition known as papular urticaria occurs when children are particularly sensitive to the bites of fleas, lice, mites, or bedbugs and presents itself small, raised bumps or lesions.
Help for Insect Bites
Most insect bites do not require medical treatment and occur as a small, local reaction which clears up in a day or two. These reactions can be treated by applying a cold compress on the affected area and taking painkillers such as ibuprofen and paracetamol. To soothe the pain of the bite, an anaesthetic or steroid cream may help.
Avoid scratching the affected area as you may damage the skin and it can lead to infection. Large, local reactions may be treated with oral antihistamine pills or analgesics. If you experience a severe allergic reaction to an insect bite with symptoms such as wheezing, hypertension or breathing difficulties, you should call for medical assistance immediately.
Herbal and homeopathic remedies are a more natural but still highly effective alternative to treating insect bites. These remedies are soothing and gentle on the skin, and also support the body’s natural ability to maintain harmony. Herbal ingredients such as Aloe ferox, Urtica urens and Calendula officinalis (Marigold) support and promote skin health, especially if outside irritants are the cause.
Other essential herbs include Hamamelis virginianum (Witch hazel) which acts as an excellent astringent herb with anti-inflammatory properties while Melaleuca laterifolia (Tea Tree Oil) has wonderful soothing and calming properties to lessen ‘angry’ skin. In addition, Lavendula officinalis (Lavender) is a sweet-smelling essential oil that also has strong supportive properties for the skin and promotes a relaxed spirit while Vit. E oil promotes skin healing.
More Information on Insect Bites
Tips to prevent insect bites
There are a number of precautions that you can take to avoid being bitten by insects.
- Cover exposed skin by wearing long sleeves and trousers when entering areas where insects are active
- Avoid using sweet smelling products such as perfumes, body lotions, soaps and shampoos as insects are attracted to them
- Use insect repellent in areas where fleas, mosquitoes, flies or ticks are common
- Treat pets regularly with anti-flea preparations
- Destroy nests or areas where insects may build nests in your home such as the attic, vents or window frames
- Cover food when outdoors at picnics or cookouts
- Avoid campsites near water such as swamps or ponds
- Wash bedding regularly at a high temperature to avoid bedbugs
- Sleep under a mosquito net or use mosquito traps and magnets to control them
- Apply insect repellant that contain DEET (diethyltoluamide) to your skin
- Use topical applications of citronella, lavender, tea tree oil and eucalyptus oils for mosquito bites
- When traveling to tropical areas ensure that you have the necessary vaccines and medications and your accommodation has insect-proof screen doors, and windows that close properly
|
<urn:uuid:c755905e-aafa-4b71-b4a7-be50b39431e5>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.nativeremedies.com/ailment/natural-treatments-for-insect-bites.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368701852492/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516105732-00013-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.944109
| 1,120
| 3.65625
| 4
|
UD diversity training crossed the line into student intimidation
November 2, 2007
The News Journal
University of Delaware President Patrick Harker is to be commended for pulling the plug on a program that turned the quest for tolerance and understanding upside down. A report from the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education showed that the university’s residential life program made a mockery of intellectual freedom in the way it treated students living in its dormitories.
Students were subjected to what can only be called intimidation and indoctrination on the issues of race and sexual identity.
The foundation is in the business of exposing this kind of intolerance on campuses, so it might be accused of political bias. However, when students came forth to back up the claim, university officials were duty bound to end it. The newly installed president’s immediate and forceful action ends what at best can be called a several-year-old, but seriously misguided effort.
Students from all backgrounds need to meet and learn about people who are different from themselves. Not only do they need to get along in the dorms, but that's what the world beyond the campus requires.
That is not the same as trying to indoctrinate and pressure newly arrived freshmen into accepting reverse racial stereotypes and delving into sexual politics. At UD, students had been subjected to training that equates all white people with racists and urged to reveal their deepest sexual secrets either in public gatherings or to an official.
College spokesmen at first downplayed the matter by claiming some lower-ranking officials went too far or that such meetings were not mandatory.
That’s not what students said. Students were told the meetings were required. If they didn’t show up, there were confrontations with residence officials or e-mails asking where they were.
That was not teaching tolerance. It was an abuse of power. Thankfully, it’s gone.
View this article at The News Journal.
|
<urn:uuid:22ee5655-a89e-4ffd-afa2-7499126fd196>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://thefire.org/article/8587.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706499548/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516121459-00033-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.97408
| 394
| 1.976563
| 2
|
Wednesday, March 8, 2006 at 8:45 AM
How do you measure the price of urban and suburban development? Do you measure it in the millions in municipal bonds issued to fund the projects? That's the yard stick used by many inside the development world. But if you're standing outside that world, watching development projects transform landscapes you grew up with, the price isn't measured in dollars - it's something a little less tangible. Melissa Holbrook Pierson writes, "What we are is where we have been." Her new book is called The Place You Love is Gone: Progress Hits Home, and the first chapter is an elegy for her hometown, Akron. She spoke with morning host Dan Moulthrop.
Please follow our community discussion rules when composing your comments.
|
<urn:uuid:7a3199d3-6a10-470f-b764-b4708cf041f3>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.ideastream.org/news/feature/6215
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706890813/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516122130-00023-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.956758
| 157
| 1.523438
| 2
|
This is another chapter from my Aunt's memoirs where she describes the 1921 Royal Show at Derby. My aunt would have been fourteen at the time and also records her first ever sight of an aeroplane.
The summer of 1921 was a scorcher, day after day of blazing sun and blue sky. The water cart came round every day with its sprinklers laying the dust. No matter how dry the summer there never seemed to be any water shortage then. Of course there were no domestic washing machines or dish washers and few ordinary houses boasted bathrooms. It was a case of the long bath being brought in and three or four children being cleaned up in the same water. In winter in front of the kitchen fire!
Most houses like ours had a soft water pump by the kitchen sink as well as the mains water tap. The soft water came off the roof and flowed into a tank, being used in the copper on washday and for baths. Being soft it needed less soap to produce a fine lather. Much better for hair too.
I can’t remember when we first heard that the Royal Show was to be held that year at Alvaston, which was at that time a small, quiet suburb of Derby. Imagine the excitement when we knew that King George and Queen Mary were coming. When the great day finally dawned, we got up early, dressed in our Sunday best and set out.
I don’t know whether it was a Saturday, but Dad was at home. He reckoned the best place on the route would be where London Road passes over the railway line. It was also nice and near for us. We were in good time and our vantage point was unoccupied so Dad lifted us all up on to the wall. From my lofty perch I soon saw people gathering, lining the road from right to left. The coping stone on top of the wall being pointed, proved pretty uncomfortable but there was far too much going on to worry about that.
The King and Queen were to arrive at Derby station in the royal train and then be driven to Alvaston in an open carriage. After a long wait we heard a murmur, gradually gathering strength from our right, which turned into a roar of welcome and as the carriage came into view I nearly fell off the wall in my excitement. I have always been accident prone and it was only by holding tightly on to the slippery stone that I didn’t come a cropper.
Dad had been right, the horses did slow down. Queen Mary sat erect, her hat a toque of pink and grey ruched velvet. Regally she inclined her head. King George I thought looked rather stern and sad, but he raised his hat to the cheering crowd.
We had small Union Jacks bought from our local ironmonger on Osmaston Road for three halfpence each and they weren’t ‘Made in Japan’! Never were flags waved so enthusiastically. Soon the carriage was out of sight.
I don’t remember what we did the rest of the morning. But in the afternoon, back in my everyday garb, I sat in my favourite place on the wall at the bottom of our garden watching the trains go by. Suddenly out of that blue, blue sky an aeroplane appeared. It soared up and up then fluttered round and round, down and down. As though it had its own joy of living it soared up again, turned over again repeating this same trick three or four more times. Finally, smoke coming out of its tail, it wrote OXO in the sky before flying away.
For a second time that day I nearly fell off the wall in my excitement. Slithering down I pelted up the blue brick path to tell someone. Mam was in the kitchen slicing bread and butter for tea. Speaking too quickly, as I always did as a child, I was almost incoherent.
‘Spit it out, we’ll sort it,’ my dad would have said.
Mam told me to calm down and start again. I can’t remember where the others were that afternoon but later there was a lot of ‘I wish I’d seen it’ and my oldest sister reckoned the aeroplane’s first manoeuvre was called ‘the falling leaf’, an exact description of it to me. The rest of the time it had been ‘looping the loop’.
We were allowed to stay up late that night and sitting on the wall, we saw the rockets from the Show bursting in the velvety sky. There was too, a bright orange glow from the bonfire which brought to mind the peace celebrations of 1919. Despite the lateness of the hour, in a state of euphoria, it was a long time before I got to sleep. Imagine seeing the King and Queen and my first aeroplane all in one day!
|
<urn:uuid:a13c12f1-c883-4649-b4ec-282621a932f4>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://akhaart.blogspot.com/2012/04/royal-show-derby-1921.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368698207393/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516095647-00075-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.981862
| 1,013
| 1.851563
| 2
|
BEDFORD, Mass., August 5, 2010 – iRobot Corp. (NASDAQ: IRBT), a leader in delivering robotic technology-based solutions, today announced that it has received a $20.3 million order from the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA).
The order has been issued as a standalone contract. It calls for the delivery of 125 PackBot Man Transportable Robotic System (MTRS) robots, spare parts and repairs. The PackBot MTRS is modeled after the iRobot 510 PackBot.
The iRobot 510 PackBot is one of the most successful battle-tested robots in the world. The robots are currently being used by warfighters in Iraq and Afghanistan to conduct dangerous missions from safe distances. The 510 PackBot can be used to identify and neutralize roadside bombs, car bombs and other improvised explosive devices (IEDs). It is also ideal for other missions, including reconnaissance and route clearance.
“Robots have consistently proven their worth on the battlefield,” said Joe Dyer, president of iRobot’s Government and Industrial Robots division. “As roadside bombs and similar devices remain a constant threat in Iraq and Afghanistan, it is crucial that we continue outfitting our troops with tools to ensure they stay as safe as possible. The iRobot PackBot is saving lives, and we are honored to be providing this technology to the military.”
iRobot has delivered more than 3,500 unmanned ground vehicles to the military and public safety organizations worldwide.
About iRobot Corp.
iRobot designs and builds robots that make a difference. The company’s home robots help people find smarter ways to clean, and its government and industrial robots protect those in harm’s way. iRobot’s consumer and military robots feature iRobot Aware® robot intelligence systems, proprietary technology incorporating advanced concepts in navigation, mobility, manipulation and artificial intelligence. For more information about iRobot, please visit www.irobot.com.
For iRobot Investors
Certain statements made in this press release that are not based on historical information are forward-looking statements which are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. This press release contains express or implied forward-looking statements relating to, among other things, iRobot Corp.’s expectations concerning management's plans, objectives and strategies. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in these forward-looking statements. Existing and prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. iRobot Corp. undertakes no obligation to update or revise the information contained in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances or otherwise. For additional disclosure regarding these and other risks faced by iRobot Corp., see the disclosure contained in our public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including, without limitation, our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K.
|
<urn:uuid:dff1b15a-be7a-41a5-be25-9f1ca483c0ec>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.irobot.com/us/Company/Press_Center/Press_Releases/Press_Release.aspx?n=080510
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706499548/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516121459-00048-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.932067
| 656
| 1.757813
| 2
|
Section A: Purpose of War Portfolio, U. S. Marine Corps--
War Portfolio--U.S. Marine Corps
- To set forth for the information and guidance of those concerned:
- War Plans based upon existing conditions which can be put into effect immediately.
- Development Plans, i.e., plans for development of the Marine Corps beyond that now authorized as may be required to insure a satisfactory condition of readiness for the prosecution of effective and economical war against our most probable enemies.
- To serve as a guide for the coordination of all the peace activities and training of the Marine Corps towards reaching and maintaining the prescribed condition of readiness to execute the War Plans.
The War Plans to be used in case of threatened war (ORANGE only completed) [are] included in Book I, Part I, and in Book II. [Note: No Book II is in this document.]
Organization of the U. S. Marine Corps upon which the War Plans are based:
Book I--Part 1
Strength: Strength of Corps authorized by law 27,400 Average strength permissible under appropriation fiscal year 1922 21,000
Organization: The Corps is organized into detachments, companies, battalions, regiments and higher organizations as demanded by existing conditions. No unit is necessarily permanent, though many companies have been in existence for a long period of time. Officers and many different units have been trained in the duties of Field Artillery, Heavy or Army Artillery, Ships' batteries, Signal duties, Engineer duties, aviation, etc.; in brief, all duties necessary to make the Corps an independent fighting force on land and in the air.
Stations: The Corps is stationed as indicated in Navy Register 1921.
Those organizations now in existence which must be expanded for war are as indicated on Chart "A."
This chart also shows navy yard detachments which will be relieved in time to join the organizations indicated at the place and on the date specified.
CONDITIONS OF READINESS FOR WAR DURING PEACE
1. It will be observed that only those forces under head "Available" [in] Chart "A" are in readiness to take the field (if not already there), immediately; that no greater condition of readiness can be maintained until an increase in the strength of the Corps over that now appropriated for is authorized by the President; and that in time of peace the President can authorize an increase up to 27,400.
Showing men who become available, for organizations (not join organizations) in time of peace should President authorize.
Condition "C" Condition "B" Name of Force Present Strength Days
1st Brigade 1,696 5,000 Recruits) 2nd Brigade 2,153 with 5 weeks) 2,653 3rd Brigade 1,453 training) 3,433 4th Brigade 2,283 added) 4,783
For condition "A"--see Chart "A"; time required to fill organization after war has been declared.
ORANGE PLAN FOR PRESENT CONDITIONS
- Under normal conditions, the 3rd Brigade and 4th Brigade of Advanced Base Force will be maintained at Quantico, or San Diego or both places, as noted under "Available," Chart "A." The 1st and 2nd Brigades in Haiti and Santo Domingo are subject to change of station with changing political conditions. They will be maintained, however, either on active service in the field or, during periods of quiescence, at Quantico or San Diego, or both.
- When [a] tense diplomatic situation develops and war in the near future is considered possible, men for these brigades may be obtained as noted under Condition "B."
- When war has been declared, the mobilization scheme as for Condition "A" in Chart "A" will be carried into effect.
PREPARATORY MEASURES--MOBILIZATION PLAN
The execution to be commenced at least 30 days prior to D. Day:
- Prepare and have ready to send out orders to (1) active officers; (2) retired officers; (3) reserve officers. These officers to fill vacancies in the war organization, or to relieve active officers for that purpose. Number required shown in Officer Requirement Curve on Organization Curve "B."
- Prepare and have ready to send out orders to reserves to proceed to station previously determined to meet requirements shown in Curve "C," Increase Marine Trained Personnel."
- Prepare and have ready orders to desirable civilian officer material, to report at training center. The number to be sufficient to meet the requirement of Officer Requirement Curve on Organization Curve "B."
- Accumulate stores and supplies other than war organizational equipment at ports of departure to meet Requirement Curves_____.
- Request assignment of ships to ports for transfer of personnel as shown in Graphic "D," and to transport the material and supplies shown in Requirement Curve "F," Ordnance, Material and Technical Supplies.
- Provide housing accommodations to meet recruit reserve and reenlisted flow Mare Island and Parris Island, Curve "E." Provide housing accommodations to meet organizational requirements in U. S., Curve_____. Provide for purchase and transfer of material for construction of housing facilities for organization in Hawaii, Graphic_____.
PLAN D. Day
- Put into execution all measures prepared for above.
- Induct reserves, re-enlist men and recruits, as shown in Curve "E."
- Assign and transfer trained personnel to organizations 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Brigades as shown in Curve "C" Chart "A."
- Transfer organizations or parts thereof to Hawaii as shown in Graphic "D."
1st Phase: Mobilize 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Brigades in Hawaii. Conduct intensive training, etc. (Detailed study Enclosure 1) [Note: Enclosure 1 is missing.]
2nd Phase: (a) Be prepared to accompany Fleet and reduce enemy resistance in Marshall Islands; to hold there a temporary base for our fleet and to deny the use of the remaining available island [s] or atolls suitable for bases to the enemy.
- Be prepared to reduce Caroline and Mariana Islands in like manner and to recapture Guam, if it has fallen to the enemy.
- Be prepared to capture and hold suitable base or bases from which our Fleet can exert decisive pressure upon Japan and can take advantage of every opportunity to bring the enemy's naval forces to action
To accompany War Portfolio
Keep posted, as different departments complete work assigned.
Charts, Curves and Graphics--covering Mobilization Plan--with notation of work based on same which must be completed by various Staff Departments.
Designation Function Performed Work to be done and information to be obtained By Curve E Shows point of entry of Reserves, reenlisted men and recruits from D. Day. Housing facilities to meet.
Individual equipment to be supplied.
Q.M. Curve F Requirements in Rifles, Pistols, Machine Guns, Automatic Rifles, etc. Based on Curve 1 and Chart 3, Curve 4. Amount on hand and possibilities of meeting requirements. Q.M. Chart A Shows--Organizations in existence to be expanded for war, with number of units and men on hand--the number of units and men to fill up, the class of men who will fill up, with time and place of joining up. Basis for all Curves. Complete equipment including reserve stores which must be assembled and transported--cu. contents, weight, ships necessary, etc.
Designation Function Performed Work to be done and information to be obtained By Organization Curve Curve B Show process of building up 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th brigades. Organizational equipment necessary on dates when organizations are increased--showing amount on hand and possibilities of meeting requirements. Show cu. contents and wgt. of same for ship transport. Q.M. Trained Personnel Curve C Shows time, locality and rate that trained men are made available for organizations. Housing facilities to meet same--cu. contents, wgt [of] material to be transported and when. Q.M. Curve B Requirements in Officers, based on Chart 3, Curve 4 and 5. Means for meeting requirements.
Letters to Reserve Officers, Retired officers and to ex-officers to fill same. Letters to Civilian matériel to fill requirements.
A.&I. Graphic D Shows time and place of departure of organizations or parts of same for Hawaii with time of arrival. Requirements in shipping to be requested of Navy showing date of departure and arrival at Hawaii, place for transports and amount of stores to accompany troops--weight, cu. contents, etc.
- Department charged with meeting requirements will prepare statement as follows:
- Amount or number on hand.
- Amount or number that can be procured with existing facilities.
- Amount or number that must be provided by accumulating reserve in time of peace and amount that will have to be procured by utilizing civilian agencies. In all cases it will show the method of meeting the requirement, or, if this is not possible, the amount which can not be procured.
- In meeting the Officer Requirement Curve, A.&I. shall have all letters and telegrams necessary for its accomplishment prepared in advance and in like manner orders for mobilization of reserves should be prepared in advance.
Curve "C", continued
[B L A N K P A G E]
[Curve "D"? (original image corrupred)]
[B L A N K P A G E]
The following study of advanced base operations in Micronesia has been made for the purpose of crystallizing ideas as to the future operations in that area, thus obtaining a sound basis for the preparation of plans of operation and mobilization, training schedules and materiel programs.
The problems which will confront the advanced base force in the theatre of operations considered are essentially similar to those which will be met with in any theatre of operations in which the Advanced Base Force is likely to operate.
[B L A N K P A G E]
In order to impose our will upon Japan, it will be necessary for us to project our fleet and land forces across the Pacific and wage war in Japanese waters. To effect this requires that we have sufficient bases to support the fleet, both during its projection and afterwards. As the matter stands at present, we cannot count upon the use of any bases west of Hawaii except those which we may seize from the enemy after the opening of hostilities. Moreover, the continued occupation of the Marshall, Caroline and Pelew Islands by the Japanese (now holding them under mandate of the League of Nations) invests them with a series of emergency bases flanking any line of communications across the Pacific throughout a distance of 2300 miles. The reduction and occupation of these islands and the establishment of the necessary bases therein, as a preliminary phase of the hostilities, is practically imperative.
The fact that our fleet is projecting itself into enemy waters denotes that it will have considerable superiority in gun and torpedo carriers. This being the case the enemy will, during the first phase of the operations, hold his main fleet in home waters, and endeavor with torpedo, mine and air craft to reduce our superiority to a limit where he believes he can safely risk a main fleet action. The fact that more or less extended operations are necessary in order to secure our Pacific line of communications gives the enemy an unusually good opportunity for executing his plan.
The extent to which the Marine Advanced Base Force will participate in these operations will very likely depend upon the number of Marines available--and their military worth in advanced base operations. If skilled in ship-shore operations and inculcated with a high morale and offensive spirit, they will doubtless be used to the limit--if only for the sake of general economy of lives.
[B L A N K P A G E]
Table of Contents
|
<urn:uuid:f6b04665-6cd4-4357-af0e-7b8349bc33d0>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.ibiblio.org/hyperwar/USMC/ref/AdvBaseOps/Advanced-Intro.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368696381249/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516092621-00072-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.939252
| 2,456
| 2.109375
| 2
|
Can you create a YouTube video to influence public opinion without a video camera? Well, four new animated videos use Xtranormal Movie Maker, which lets you to turn anything you type into a fully-animated CG movie, to promote a point of view.
For example, Michigan Auto Law, which specializes in serious car, truck and motorcycle accidents in that state, is using Xtranormal Movie Maker to make fun of a campaign to repeal Michigan’s motorcycle helmet law.
Back on Nov. 16, 2011, Steven M. Gursten, a motorcycle accident lawyer, attended the “Next Gen YouTube Marketing” session at SES Chicago. One of the tips shared at during the session was to go to youtube.com/create and use one of the eight video creation sites that are featured there to make personal videos or animations and post them directly to YouTube. And it appears that the motorcycle accident lawyers at Michigan Auto Law followed up on that advice and made a new YouTube movie entitled “Ignore the Spiel about the Motorcycle Helmet Law Repeal.”
The new video’s description says, “A fictional conversation between Sen. Stan Fornuthin and a motorcyclist named EZ Rider, (illustrates) the absurdity and lack of common sense behind the campaign to repeal Michigan's decades-old motorcycle helmet law.”
In a post on the Michigan Auto Lawyers Blog entitled “Ignore the Spiel on the Motorcycle Helmet Law Repeal,” Gursten asks, “Is the repeal efforts of state motorcycle helmet laws one of the worst ideas ever?”
And he answers his own rhetorical question by saying, “If the motorcycle helmet law is repealed, more people will die, and more people will be catastrophically injured. States like Michigan that already have stretched finances will be asked to pay for lifetime catastrophic care for people seriously injured in motorcycle accidents, as these motorcycle operators are shifted to Medicaid. That means taxpayers will be asked to foot the bills.”
A second person who has created animated videos to promote his point of view is Omid Malekan who makes videos that entertain and educate. Check out his newest one, which is entitled, “Mockumentary Presents: Politics in America.”
The video’s description says it is “an in-depth look at the current political environment in America, from the Occupy Wall Street protesters to the President's reaction to the Republican Primary.”
Finally, Tiny Watch Productions has been creating animated videos on YouTube for years. According to its channel description, “Tiny Watch Productions was created with 1 part Grape Kool-Aid, 2 parts Aviator Sunglasses and 3 Parts used motor oil. We love offbeat and refreshing humor. We also love collecting top hats.”
It’s latest animated video is entitled “iPhone 5 vs iPhone 4S.”
As the video’s description says, “The Fred Save Age has arrived.”
Now, I may or may not approve each of these messages. But I stand by all of these animated videos. They are good examples of one of the plays that you won’t find in the YouTube Creator Playbook.
Know your Ambiguous Customer: Effective Multi-Channel Tracking
Wednesday, June 5 at 1pm ET - Learn why a move from the "batch and blast" email approach enables better conversations with your customers.
Register today - don't miss this free webinar!
|
<urn:uuid:4c4bb255-d4bf-409a-9e50-cdea667f314e>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://searchenginewatch.com/article/2133793/Got-Opinion-but-No-Camera-Illustrate-Your-Point-of-View-with-Xtranormal
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368704392896/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516113952-00018-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.938628
| 724
| 1.664063
| 2
|
Received any strange packages in the mail recently? The other day U.S. 1 received something that piqued our interest: The March, 2005, edition of Verizon's Yellow Pages for the Princeton-Suburban Trenton Area. We, of course, already have several copies. The difference? Three pounds, 1.3 ounces. Verizon has begun shipping its phone book on CDs for your PC.
After 10 or 15 minutes of installation (goodbye 362 mb of hard drive space) and downloading the needed plug-ins (Flash 7.0) to upgrade our web browser, the Verizon/Super Pages phone book was up and running. It seemed pretty good. You can search the phone book by page number, listed TN (telephone number), Listed Name, and Heading. Enter something in one of those fields, and you will get a list of results, any of which you can click to see a PDF of the page where that listing occurs in the print phone book.
Great, so what can it do that a "real" phone book can't? The main benefit is that you can search it by phone number. So if you have caller ID and you miss or ignore a call, then you can enter the number and match it to a name. Its main detriments? It won't be good for any of the more traditional uses of the phone book, i.e. as a height enhancer, (sitting on it), or as a test of strength, (tearing it; Manhattan).
But then we started thinking: Aren't there already websites that do this sort of thing? There are. To start with, Google will do it. You can google a name, phone number, even a phone book style heading with a location. Google's reply will include name, phone number, address, and an interactive map with optional directions and satellite images.
And Verizon's own website seems to duplicate and even surpass its CD phone book. From www.verizon.com, you can use an online phone book that covers the whole United States, not just the Princeton-Trenton Suburban area. Link to its partner's home page, www.superpages.com, to reach the advanced search options that are at least as good online as they are on CD. The only thing you won't get is a PDF of the actual phone book page, replete with paid display advertisements.
If Verizon's online phone book is better than its CD phone book, why should the company bother to develop this CD version?
The CD phone book seems to be good for only two groups: companies that take out display advertisements in the paper phone book, but that are worried that the proliferation of on-line phone books are depreciating the worth of their advertisements; and people whose computers are not on-line, but who want to be able to search the phone book by phone number, not name.
A good guess is that Verizon's motivation for this new give-away is to appease advertisers, not to serve the general public, but hey, slide the paper cover out of its plastic, and you have a perfectly good empty DVD case. Just another case of universal service from the phone company.
Still a Career Option: Study for the Bar
There may or not be veritas in vino, but there could well be a new career. "Our school changes lives," says Ariel Geshury, director of the Mixology Wine Institute, a chain that is opening a school in the Mercer Mall on Tuesday, September 6. The owner of five other bartending schools, she says that many of her students are downsized corporate workers, and many others are folks "who hate their jobs and have the guts to get out."
The course takes three weeks, costs "several hundred dollars," and covers everything from how to mix a drink and interact with customers to how to recommend a wine and toss bottles around to entertain a bar stool audience. Upon graduation, says Geshury, students can earn $100 to $300 a night. Demand is high, and hours are flexible. "You can work four nights a week or two," she says. "You can work one place in the winter and another in the summer."
The school, which provides placement assistance, tries to match each student with his or her natural environment. Hip 20-somethings might do well in a beach bar, while their grandparents often prefer a country club. "Our oldest student was 75," says Geshury. "He was a retired Drexel professor. He had his own business, but wanted to be out with people." She adds there is tremendous demand for older mixologists.
A native of Israel and an archaeologist by training, Geshury turned to bartending for the same reason that most of her students do. "I needed to make money," she says. A graduate of the University of Tel Aviv (Class of 1985), she and her husband, Amotz, along with their three-year-old son, immigrated to Raleigh, North Carolina. Her husband was enrolled in a Ph.D. program there, studying polymers.
She enrolled in bartending classes offered by Professional Bartending Schools of America and found that she both liked the school and the work. Her first job was with an upscale French restaurant. "When I walked in, they thought I was there to show children through the restaurant," she says. When she asked for a job, the manager told her that he had only a three-week vacancy. She took the job, and stayed for 18 months before hiring on at a Marriott.
She made enough to support the family, send her son to a private school, and take one month a year off.
While she was working as a bartender, Geshury worked part-time at the school whenever she could, doing office work. When the family moved to Philadelphia in 1991 she opened her own school. That school, and five others she owns, including another Philadelphia location that is to open this fall, are under the umbrella of the Professional Bartending Schools of America, which is headquartered in Cincinnati.
Meanwhile, the headquarters of Geshury's schools, which she describes as a chain, is in Philadelphia, where the family, which now includes two sons, age 22 and 14, lives. Her husband has left Drexel, and now works with her schools, largely in an IT capacity.
Geshury's schools were originally labeled "bartending" schools, but she recently changed the name to reflect what she sees as a need for professionalism in the industry. "It's like a cook," she says. "They used to be trained on the job, and then there were culinary schools. It's the same with bartending. I'm trying to bring it up as a full-time profession."
She sees a growing sophistication that, in her opinion, demands more from a bartender. Even at a casual restaurant, she says, the bartender must be knowledgeable about wines. At the same time, alcohol of all kinds is being served in more and more venues. "Look around!" she says, "even Virgin Airlines has a mixologist in first class."
All of this is good news for people looking for a quick career change, a retirement job, or a part-time job with decent earnings potential. Few people yearn to be bartenders from an early age. Rather, says Geshury, "usually it's a vehicle to get wherever they need to go in life."
Mixology Wine Institute, 3371 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville 08648. Ariel Gesbury, executive director. 215-878-1300; fax, 215-878-7217. E-mail: email@example.com.
Tax Benefits for Higher Ed
As summer fades into memory and classrooms come alive with students, those who pay the costs of higher education may find some relief in the various tax benefits associated with education-related expenses.
"Taxpayers should consider higher education tax credits and deductions for which they might be eligible for 2005," IRS spokesperson Gregg Semanick says in a prepared statement. "Education tax credits and deductions can help offset those costs."
The following are among the many tax-free benefits, education credits, and tax deductions:
Tax-free benefits. Certain payments or special programs' distributions are free of tax when used for qualifying educational expenses. Such expenses cannot duplicate one another or be used to claim education credits or deductions. Scholarships and fellowships are generally tax-free when used to pay qualified expenses for degree candidates at eligible schools. Usually amounts for room and board do not qualify as tax exempt and are considered taxable income.
Employer-provided educational assistance. Employers can give up to $5,250 in tax-free benefits each year; courses do not have to be work-related.
Canceled student loan. Although a canceled debt is usually taxable, a student loan may not be if the cancellation depends on the taxpayer working for a certain time in a specified occupation for a section 501(c)(3) organization.
Lifetime learning credit. Applies to most higher education, including non-degree courses, with a maximum credit of $2,000 per tax return, regardless of the number of qualifying students. This credit equals 20 percent of the first $10,000 of post-secondary tuition and fees paid during the tax year for all eligible students. This credit is available for enrollment in one or more courses.
Deduction for work-related education. Claim costs of education required to keep your job or to maintain or improve skills needed in your present work, but not if the education is needed to meet the minimum requirements of your position or is part of a program to qualify you for a new trade or business.
For more information, see IRS Publication 970, "Tax Benefits for Higher Education," at www.irs.gov.
|
<urn:uuid:15ac3024-e555-4635-bfdd-ed970d6784a8>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.princetoninfo.com/index.php?option=com_us1more&Itemid=6&key=08-24-2005_s_01&more=1&action=comment
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368701459211/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516105059-00066-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.972526
| 2,034
| 1.554688
| 2
|
IHM wrote a post on how life was for women in India , who lived in the 1920's, 30's, 40's after reading a book about Women in Kerala during the same time period. There were so many interesting comments on her post with people recalling the lives of their own mothers and grandmothers. I wrote a comment too, which actually became as big as a post. :-)
Just reproducing it here....
I realize, that although the society I live in is patriarchal, matriarchs in the family have really lived amazing lives.
Like what do you say about someone born in 1919, the second child and only daughter, amongst 3 children. Her memories of her own mother were a bit hazy, as she passed away in her early childhood, after her younger brother was born. Her father, never married again, wanting to spare his children from "step-ness" . He himself had had a hard childhood, had literally studied under lamps, with great effort and dedication, and consequently risen to a good job with the government in those days. They lived in Indore then, and all his children went to school. The daughter did particularly well, and there is a gold medal in maths from some Ajmer Board, that is greatly prized in the house today. For its non commercial value.
And what do you say about someone who was sent to Pune's Fergusson College by her father to study for her degree ? Lived in what was called the Ladies Residency then. Started missing her father so much, that she once ran away back to Indore, only to have her father bring her right back. And she went on to make some lifelong friends in college, from different parts of the country.
Don't know if it was the opportunity to travel across the country, or what , but she got more than an education when she finished college. By then her father had shifted to Pune and stayed with his married son. Her marriage was fixed in 1941 with the son of a family friend. The background and attitudes towards ladies in that family were much different. Children followed.
And what do you say about what happened when she had a chance to travel abroad ? When her eldest was one year old, her husband had an opportunity to attend a university in Brooklyn. With no suggestions forthcoming from her in laws, her father agreed to take care of her year old son, and encouraged her to accompany her husband , and do a degree there herself. She travelled alone by a plane making several stops (there are photos of her with the pilot next to the plane !) en route to the US to join her husband who was already there, and a few years later returned with an MA in Child development from Columbia University. That was 1948.Another daughter and son were born, and the family with 3 children lived in Pune.
And what do you say about someone who dedicated all her energies to her childrens' education and bringing up, even maintaining a separate household in Pune for the children , when her husband was transferred to places with questionable educational facilities. Everyone was together in the holidays, allowing the children to see many different parts of India, due to their father's job. Once the kids started college, the household reverted to a single household at whichever place her father's posting took them, the last being Mumbai.
And then what do you say about how she brought up her own ? Her daughter was , like her, one of 3 children. She was given almost all the opportunities the sons got, sometimes even more. The daughter played sports, both for her school and college, in the appropriate garb , greatly encouraged by her. She herself always wore sarees, but realized her daughter's life was to be different. And it helped that they lived in a colony, where weekend mornings, someone would string a tennis net across a tennis court marked out in a large gap between two houses, and one could be treated to a sight of middle aged women women in tucked-in sarees, whacking shots across the net. (Eat your heart out, Sharapova).
And what do you say about her, who was so different , in a gutsy way. But was always involved with the extended family in various ways. She was great friends with all her husband's maternal cousins, and there was a constant flow of folks coming to stay, and various traditional functions being held to celebrate something or the other. Someone was always asking her to come along for some medical stuff happening in the family. Her mother-in-law had several sisters, and so many of them came to stay with her , much older to her , just because they liked to visit her. They liked that she drove a car in the crowded roads of Pune, and took them to visit many places.
And so what do you say of someone to whom age was just a physical count, and minds were more important. All her children decided on their own, what they were looking for in prospective partners in life, and she and the father never forced their opinion on any one in this regard, but were always available to listen and give opinions.
And finally, what do you say about someone, who although getting on in age at 83, and afflicted with typical old age maladies, still braved a 23 hour plane trip, all alone, to be present at a grandson's graduation in the US ? As avidly as she attended her her daughter's daughter's swimming races back in India, where she and grandpa loudly cheered. ?
To her education was not a label. You had to show the benefits of it. One of the biggest gifts she gave her daughter was that of strength of mind, the ability to say NO, based on your own convictions, however unpopular they may be, and to handle failure and treat it as a stepping stone, rather than something to make you collapse....
She was ahead of her times , and her life almost spanned the previous century. She passed away suddenly at the turn of the century, after a brief hospitalization, with only her daughter by her bedside.
Her daughter's family had adopted a little girl, and many years later , (when the little girl had grown up), while traveling once in a rickshaw with her own daughter, she said " You know, in your future, if you ever get the feeling that you are alone, there is no one , and so on, this little girl of yours will always be there for you. She is so young now, but she has something special. I see it in her."...
Mothers have a way of being right. I know. She was my mother.
|
<urn:uuid:48105a4a-46d6-40c1-bbfc-d3528c949df8>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://kaimhanta.blogspot.com/2011/09/when-comment-became-post.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706153698/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516120913-00072-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.993355
| 1,357
| 1.90625
| 2
|
"They say, 'If a man divorces his wife, And she goes from him And becomes another man's, May he return to her again?' Would not that land be greatly polluted? But you have played the harlot with many lovers; Yet return to Me," says the Lord.
"Lift up your eyes to the desolate heights and see: Where have you not lain with men? By the road you have sat for them Like an Arabian in the wilderness; And you have polluted the land With your harlotries and your wickedness.
Therefore the showers have been withheld, And there has been no latter rain. You have had a harlot's forehead; You refuse to be ashamed.
Will you not from this time cry to Me, 'My father, You are the guide of my youth?
Will He remain angry forever? Will He keep it to the end?' Behold, you have spoken and done evil things, As you were able."
The Lord said also to me in the days of Josiah the king: "Have you seen what backsliding Israel has done? She has gone up on every high mountain and under every green tree, and there played the harlot.
And I said, after she had done all these things, 'Return to Me.' But she did not return. And her treacherous sister Judah saw it.
Then I saw that for all the causes for which backsliding Israel had committed adultery, I had put her away and given her a certificate of divorce; yet her treacherous sister Judah did not fear, but went and played the harlot also.
So it came to pass, through her casual harlotry, that she defiled the land and committed adultery with stones and trees.
And yet for all this her treacherous sister Judah has not turned to Me with her whole heart, but in pretense," says the Lord.
Then the Lord said to me, "Backsliding Israel has shown herself more righteous than treacherous Judah.
Go and proclaim these words toward the north, and say: 'Return, backsliding Israel,' says the Lord; 'I will not cause My anger to fall on you. For I am merciful,' says the Lord; ' I will not remain angry forever.
Only acknowledge your iniquity, That you have transgressed against the Lord your God, And have scattered your charms To alien deities under every green tree, And you have not obeyed My voice,' says the Lord.
"Return, O backsliding children," says the Lord; "for I am married to you. I will take you, one from a city and two from a family, and I will bring you to Zion.
And I will give you shepherds according to My heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.
Then it shall come to pass, when you are multiplied and increased in the land in those days," says the Lord, "that they will say no more, 'The ark of the covenant of the Lord.' It shall not come to mind, nor shall they remember it, nor shall they visit it, nor shall it be made anymore.
At that time Jerusalem shall be called The Throne of the Lord, and all the nations shall be gathered to it, to the name of the Lord, to Jerusalem. No more shall they follow the dictates of their evil hearts.
In those days the house of Judah shall walk with the house of Israel, and they shall come together out of the land of the north to the land that I have given as an inheritance to your fathers.
"But I said: 'How can I put you among the children And give you a pleasant land, A beautiful heritage of the hosts of nations?' "And I said: 'You shall call Me, "My Father," And not turn away from Me.'
Surely, as a wife treacherously departs from her husband, So have you dealt treacherously with Me, O house of Israel," says the Lord.
A voice was heard on the desolate heights, Weeping and supplications of the children of Israel. For they have perverted their way; They have forgotten the Lord their God.
"Return, you backsliding children, And I will heal your backslidings." "Indeed we do come to You, For You are the Lord our God.
Truly, in vain is salvation hoped for from the hills, And from the multitude of mountains; Truly, in the Lord our God Is the salvation of Israel.
For shame has devoured The labor of our fathers from our youth-- Their flocks and their herds, Their sons and their daughters.
We lie down in our shame, And our reproach covers us. For we have sinned against the Lord our God, We and our fathers, From our youth even to this day, And have not obeyed the voice of the Lord our God."
|
<urn:uuid:3bb68a30-cba7-4b42-abf3-3900bb66917f>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.biblestudytools.com/nkjv/jeremiah/3.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368707435344/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516123035-00048-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.972461
| 1,010
| 1.546875
| 2
|
FIT, lesson plans
As a teacher, you know your students and how to get the best out of them. However, sometimes it can be helpful to get inspired by colleagues' work. The FIT resource pack, included with the DVD, contains lesson ideas for Key Stages 3 and 4. Below you will find a selection of lesson plans by teachers who have used FIT.
If you have lesson plans you would like to share with us, please download our FIT lesson plan pro forma and e-mail it to email@example.com (subject: lesson plan).
Scheme of work KS 3+4 with powerpoint slides for white board
|
<urn:uuid:09dfc356-6a35-45a8-8372-6f5558f43444>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.stonewall.org.uk/at_school/education_for_all/quick_links/education_resources/fit_teachers_info/4049.asp?fontsize=large
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368704713110/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516114513-00036-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.95565
| 139
| 2.09375
| 2
|
Article 3, Section 2, Clause 3
James Wilson, State House Speech6 Oct. 1787Pamphlets 157
Another objection that has been fabricated against the new constitution, is expressed in this disingenuous form--"the trial by jury is abolished in civil cases." I must be excused, my fellow citizens, if, upon this point, I take advantage of my professional experience, to detect the futility of the assertion. Let it be remembered, then, that the business of the foederal constitution was not local, but general--not limited to the views and establishments of a single state, but co-extensive with the continent, and comprehending the views and establishments of thirteen independent sovereignties. When, therefore, this subject was in discussion, we were involved in difficulties, which pressed on all sides, and no precedent could be discovered to direct our course. The cases open to a jury, differed in the different states; it was therefore impracticable, on that ground, to have made a general rule. The want of uniformity would have rendered any reference to the practice of the states idle and useless: and it could not, with any propriety, be said, that "the trial by jury shall be as heretofore:" since there has never existed any foederal system of jurisprudence, to which the declaration could relate. Besides, it is not in all cases that the trial by jury is adopted in civil questions: for causes depending in courts of admiralty, such as relate to maritime captures, and such as are agitated in the courts of equity, do not require the intervention of that tribunal. How, then, was the line of discrimination to be drawn? The convention found the task too difficult for them; and they left the business as it stands--in the fullest confidence, that no danger could possibly ensue, since the proceedings of the supreme court are to be regulated by the congress, which is a faithful representation of the people: and the oppression of government is effectually barred, by declaring that in all criminal cases, the trial by jury shall be preserved.
Ford, Paul Leicester, ed. Pamphlets on the Constitution of the United States, Published during Its Discussion by the People, 1787--1788. Brooklyn, 1888. Reprint. New York: De Capo Press, 1968.
© 1987 by The University of Chicago
|
<urn:uuid:e3089e13-e7ab-4058-b5af-116b788760a5>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://press-pubs.uchicago.edu/founders/documents/a3_2_3s5.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368708142388/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516124222-00053-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.969869
| 486
| 2.4375
| 2
|
ADHD Drugs and Heart Risks
Reuters is reporting that two U.S. health agencies plan to study the effects of ADHD drugs on the heart. Take a look:
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said it will collaborate with the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality to examine clinical data of about 500,000 children and adults who have taken ADHD drugs, which include Novartis AG's Ritalin and Shire Plc's Adderall.For more on ADHD, take a look at this post from the other day: Ritalin Stunts.
The analysis, expected to take about two years, will include all drugs currently marketed for treating ADHD. Millions of people take the medicines.
Because the drugs can increase heart rate and blood pressure, there are concerns they may raise the risk of heart attacks, strokes or other cardiovascular problems.
Trackbacks (0) Links to blogs that reference this article Trackback URL
Dr. Fuhrman's Executive Offices
4 Walter E. Foran Blvd.Flemington, NJ 08822
|
<urn:uuid:641cf5c0-87ce-4aae-8afa-e9a361c980d3>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.diseaseproof.com/archives/adhd-adhd-drugs-and-heart-risks-print.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368705195219/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516115315-00062-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.914998
| 218
| 2.453125
| 2
|
In what could be the greatest proof of San Francisco's status as a truly awesome and zen-like place to be a voter (unless you live in District 5--sorry guys), hundreds of D9 residents were given the divine privilege of voting in the middle of Hua Zang Si Buddhist temple at 22nd and Capp. You know the place:
Have you been in there yet? You really should. And I mean it--even if your polling place is in a school or hair salon or somewhere bullshit like that. Churches are generally frightening places full of hatred and bad crackers, but Hua Zang Si is nothing like that. It even has a storied history that predates the earthquake and involves heroic efforts by the Buddhists to spare the building from being converted into condos:
The impressive building that houses Hua Zang Si was constructed shortly after 1900 as St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church. Built in a Gothic Revival style, the church served the local German immigrant community who worked at the tanneries and breweries along Precita Creek. The building narrowly escaped the fires that followed the great earthquake of 1906.
By the close of the 20th century, the European immigrant families that remained in San Francisco had mostly moved to the west of the city and the neighborhood welcomed a growing Latino community instead. In 1992, the congregation that met in St. John's Church voted to move to a church around the corner, which would be named St. Mary and St. Martha Lutheran Church.The old Lutheran church was deconsecrated and became a private residence. Plans were underway to turn it into condominiums when the United International World Buddhism Association purchased it and the adjoining parish residence for $2.5 million in 2002. The church building was left intact but given a dramatic makeover with red paint, Chinese-style doors, and a fully remodeled interior.
The basement, where we voted, is an impressive enough space. However, the second floor still contains the Church's original organ pipes and stained glass windows and also houses a 21-foot tall Amitabha Buddha statue that was imported from Taiwan, which one of Temple's volunteers said was the largest Buddha statue in all of North America. In other words? It's an impressive amalgamation of various religions and cultures.
They're open to the public from 9am-6pm daily and seem more than thrilled to show people around.
|
<urn:uuid:c6d6fda6-9660-4c5c-9d01-6fa7b46d3b11>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://uptownalmanac.com/2012/11/voting-inside-hua-zang-si-buddhist-temple
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368699881956/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516102441-00055-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.972906
| 485
| 2.03125
| 2
|
It’s that time of year when crafters begin making their lists and checking them twice. Handmade gifts are not only thoughtful, but they can be the perfect solution when you’re trying to find something for the person who has everything. This year, why not up the ante by hand-dyeing your yarn or fleece to create the ultimate personalized, handmade gift? It’s easier than you might think!
You’ll want to start with undyed yarn or fleece – white, cream, or even a light brown will do. For first-time dyers, it’s easiest to dye animal (protein) fibers, so any wool or mohair is a good choice. If you will be dyeing skeins of yarn, you’ll want to make sure there are two or three ties to keep each skein tidy.
There are plenty of starter kits geared towards beginner dyers that include a variety of dyes, mordant, and instructions using either natural or synthetic dyes. You can also find countless online tutorials demonstrating how to dye yarn or fiber using alternative dyes such as kool-aid, easter egg dye, and even coffee, tea or turmeric!
Once you have decided on which type of dye you’d like to use, you will need a container (or containers) to mix it in and a large stainless or enamel pot to heat your yarn and dye. A crock pot would also work well for this activity. If you’d rather dye your yarn using a microwave, you’ll need a glass dish that is microwave-safe.
It’s important to note that anything used in the dyeing process must not be used for any other purpose, especially food preparation. You’ll also need a candy thermometer so that you can make sure your dye bath reaches the correct temperature; if your yarn and dye don’t get hot enough, the dye will not set properly.
We have easy-to-follow instructions for dyeing yarn or fiber with acid dyes here in our advice and help section. For more detailed instruction, the Ashford Book of Dyeing or Teach Yourself Visually Hand-Dyeing are great reference books to keep handy. Safety is important when working with dyes – even natural ones! Click here for important information to help you dye with care. We also recommend wearing gloves and a dust mask when working with powder dyes.
Once you master the basics, it’s time to experiment! You can add multiple colors by painting dye directly onto a skein with a paintbrush. If your yarn or fleece is in a still dye bath, you can use a turkey baster or flavor injector to add drops of dye to your skein, creating a dappled effect. You could even dip-dye your skein with a light color of dye, then use a spray bottle filled with a darker hue to create an interesting effect (just be sure you wear a dust mask and eye protection). Whatever you try, you’re guaranteed to end up with a truly unique work of art, allowing you to knit, spin, weave or hook a memorable gift for that special someone!
Join Us for the 12 Fiber Toys of Christmas
It’s Toy Season! It’s week 3 of our 12 Fiber Toys for Christmas. This Friday, we’ll be featuring a new favorite fiber toy with a special deal and a chance to win that particular toy (tool) – click here for more details!
Chris, Nancy, and the entire Woolery team!
|
<urn:uuid:e16534bd-63e8-461f-94fa-7e2932cb1aaf>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://thewooleryguy.wordpress.com/2012/11/06/hand-dyed-by-you-the-ultimate-handmade-gift/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368701459211/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516105059-00066-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.91969
| 749
| 1.765625
| 2
|
EVERY ERITREAN IS WELCOME ON SATURDAY 21ST OF MAY.
EYC is hosting short stories, poetry and Eritrean trivia to raise funds for the upcoming three day events to commemorate our 20 years of independence.
Concerned Eritreans in Vancouver, Canada are planning to remember those brothers and sisters who died in the Mediterranean sea by holding a candle night on April 30, 2011 at 4 PM. Place, at hum park New Westminster. All Eritreans in Vancouver and surrounding area are invited to join the event.
Candle lighting memorial service at Hyde Park, Speakers corner, London 7pm on Saturday April 16th 2011.
People’s Committee of the National Congress along with other concerned citizens and organizations in Toronto call for a Demonstration to all Eritreans who believe in Human Right, Justice and Democracy To come out and stand for our People!
To: – All male and female Eritrean youth in the Diasporas – All Eritrean mothers and fathers in the Diasporas – All civil organizations advocating human rights and justice
On 11 March 2011, interested Eritreans and their friends from all over Europe are requested to take part in a demonstration in front of the UN Headquarters in Geneva
CDRIE Seminar In London UK
Urgent call to All Eritreans around the world and friends of Eritrea– support for victims.
|
<urn:uuid:4d33bda5-c688-4082-9cc7-e75b5e5ce51d>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://assenna.com/category/community-2/announcement/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368696382584/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516092622-00062-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.915169
| 290
| 1.632813
| 2
|
Memoirs of a Geisha (2005)
In 1929 an impoverished nine-year-old named Chiyo from a fishing village is sold to a geisha house in Kyoto’s Gion district and subjected to cruel treatment from the owners and the head geisha Hatsumomo. Her stunning beauty attracts the vindictive jealousy of Hatsumomo, until she is rescued by and taken under the wing of Hatsumomo’s bitter rival, Mameha.
Under Mameha’s mentorship, Chiyo becomes the geisha named Sayuri, trained in all the artistic and social skills a geisha must master in order to survive in her society. As a renowned geisha she enters a society of wealth, privilege, and political intrigue. As World War II looms Japan and the geisha’s world are forever changed by the onslaught of history.
|
<urn:uuid:937e2b1b-aef2-475d-b9f2-3708ea324807>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.upsem.edu/theologyandfilm/faith-reviews-2/faith-reviews-i-to-r/memoirs-of-a-geisha-2005/
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368697974692/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516095254-00055-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.92788
| 181
| 2.09375
| 2
|
In 2010, the Belarussian opposition leader Andrei Sannikov took part in the country's presidential election. He was under no illusions he might "win".
Since taking power in 1994, the country's hardline president, Alexander Lukashenko, had maintained an iron grip on power. But Sannikov was unprepared for the regime's sudden, violent crackdown, the worst in 20 years.
On the evening of the vote, Sannikov and nearly 30,000 opposition supporters rallied in Minsk's freezing central square. His recollection of what happened next is hazy.
Riot police grabbed Sannikov, pushed him to the ground and then beat him savagely. "I lost consciousness," he says, speaking in his first newspaper interview since fleeing Belarus. "My wife and friend covered me with their bodies. They saved my life."
When he came round, Sannikov couldn't walk. A secret police officer had smashed his knees with a metal shield, he says – his leg was in agony. Friends helped him stagger into a journalist's car.
On the way to hospital police officers stopped his vehicle and dragged him out. They began beating him again. "I heard my wife screaming," he says. His arrest followed a pre-planned "invasion" of parliament by government provocateurs.
The police took him to the KGB's notorious Minsk prison, known by locals as the Americana (after the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia rebranded its domestic spy agency as the FSB – Lukashenko kept the old name). Here, guards refused him medical treatment. He was locked in a cell, still wearing his candidate's ID badge. Friends, family and the international community feared the worst; it was weeks before news emerged he was alive.
Sannikov, a former diplomat, is Belarus's most high-profile opposition figure. He spent the next 16 months in jail. In May 2011, he received a five-year prison sentence for "inciting mass disorder". He and other inmates were kept in humiliating conditions, forced to strip naked for regular searches.
At one point the regime encouraged him to kill himself. It left him in an isolation cell with a razor blade and a piece of cord.
Sannikov was released in April. In August Lukashenko – Europe's last dictator in the words of former US secretary of state, Condoleezza Rice – suggested Sannikov would soon be rearrested. Reluctantly, he sought political asylum in Britain.
Sannikov's wife, Iryna Khalip, and their five-year-old son, Dania, remain in Minsk, effectively hostages of the Lukashenko regime.
Speaking from London, his new home, Sannikov says Belarus's reputation as Europe's most repressive state is deserved. "Lukashenko is a dictator. He openly calls himself that. Sometimes he tries to be coquettish and says he isn't, but he's admitted it several times. I think it's true," he says. Like other dictators, the president has a ruthless "animal instinct" for power, he adds.
In exile, Sannikov is divided from Khalip, a well-known journalist with the Russian investigative newspaper Novaya Gazeta. She too was jailed during the December 2010 demonstration; the authorities threatened to take her son into care. She then spent months under KGB house arrest. Two agents lived in her flat; she was forbidden from using the phone, emailing, or going near the window.
Last month, Lukashenko "promised" to free her during a meeting with the newspaper proprietor Evegeny Lebedev, who requested her release. Despite this, she is forbidden to leave Minsk, join her husband or work as a journalist.
Sannikov describes Belarus's system of government as a kolkhoz dictatorship (kolkhoz is the Russian word for collective farm; previously Lukashenko was a farm manager and KGB border guard). The clampdown that followed the presidential election marked the victory of the siloviki, hardliners led by Viktor, one of Lukashenko's sons.
"The system has no ideology. It denies national values such as history, culture and language. It's based only on the necessity to keep power," Sannikov says.
Aged 58, Sannikov grew up in Minsk. He studied English and joined the Soviet foreign service; after Belarus's independence in 1991, he served as a diplomat in the US and Switzerland. In 1995 he became Belarus's deputy foreign minister. He resigned in protest at Lukashenko's policies and co-founded a pro-democracy group, Charter 1997. He was one of several presidential candidates arrested by Lukashenko after the 2010 poll; officially he came second.
During nearly two decades in power Lukashenko has performed an east-west foreign policy balancing act, playing off Brussels against Moscow. After the 2010 crackdown the EU reimposed travel bans on Lukashenko and 150 officials. But according to Sannikov, the democratic world is too "complacent" about Belarus. The post-Soviet state isn't only domestically repressive, he says, but sells weapons to rogue governments and entities around the world.
"Belarus poses a threat to international security. Dictators are very good at consolidating themselves. They form a club," he argues.
This club, Sannikov suggests, is getting larger. The opposition leader says he is "pessimistic" about Belarus's neighbour Russia, where President Vladimir Putin has launched his own crackdown on civil society since returning to the Kremlin in May.
"Russia is heading the way of Belarus," he notes. Ukraine, and other post-Soviet states such as Georgia, are going in the same backward direction, he believes.
Sannikov heard about last year's uprisings in the Middle East from his prison cell. He recalls: "When I heard about the Arab Spring I had an almost physical feeling." "We had prepared everything in Belarus. But someone above decided to strike in another place. It wasn't fair on Belarus," he says wryly. He rejects the idea that Lukashenko, self-styled father of the nation, enjoys mass popular support. Belarus's severe economic crisis means that living standards are falling, despite bail-outs from Russia.
"The prevailing majority in Belarus would welcome changes," he says.
For the moment, Lukashenko survives, through a mixture of terror, the KGB, and old-fashioned Soviet populism. While in jail, the head of Belarus's KGB, Vadim Zaitsev, interrogated him. "It would be funny were it not so tragic. They don't change, these people. They lie to you. They use false information, false accusations," Sannikov said, recalling how Zaitsev accused him of consorting with foreign "spies" and being a puppet of the west.
Belarus is a small, historically luckless country of 9.5 million. Outsiders often see it as a sort of Soviet Union theme park, synonymous with gloomy, totalitarian rule. Living conditions have collapsed, with massive inflation and a currency in freefall. Despite this, Sannikov says, Belarus has a lot to offer. It has a thriving cultural scene, with first-class ballet and music, as well as lakes, forests and great natural beauty. He is convinced that given a chance a post-Lukashenko Belarus could rejoin the western mainstream, and become a thriving European state.
Sannikov says he is convinced Lukashenko's regime is "doomed".
"I see no future for it," he says. He won't predict when it will fall, but adds: "It's only a matter of time."
|
<urn:uuid:d65c594c-27a8-4602-aea3-d6247557a513>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/nov/23/andrei-sannikov-world-complacent-belarus
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368703682988/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516112802-00011-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.981337
| 1,623
| 1.539063
| 2
|
Hollywood actors dance?
the omission of musical numbers, see Question 2 (Why are
their movies so short and simple?). Regarding the dancing
talent of Hollywood actors... well, arguments have gone
on for years, in classrooms and coffee houses alike, about
the bewildering inability of Hollywood stars to dance
well or at all. The only thing we're all certain of is
that at one point, they did know how: just consider
Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, the famous duo whose flashy
prancing shot them to fame. Bewildered Hollyfans who expect
more of their highly-paid stars did feel encouraged by
the announcement that Moulin Rouge and Chicago
would include dance numbers, but the hyperactive cuts
during said dance numbers made it clear that even those
Hollywood actors who would *like* to be able to dance
can't manage to do so for periods any longer than two
to three seconds. Happily, Hollywood has finally come
to terms with its own ineptitude; Farah Khan, Bollywood
dance master extraordinare, has been hired to choreograph
a number in the Reese Witherspoon vehicle Vanity Fair.
Perhaps this marks a new era for Hollywood, in which it
will demand that its actors actually do something
in return for their multi-million dollar paychecks.
Why are their movies so short and simple?
reasons. First, understand that the chief modes of entertainment
for many Hollywood viewers are playing video games and
watching half-hour television sitcoms. Thus most of
these people have regrettably short attention spans.
This makes it difficult for them to read a newspaper
or book, much less concentrate for more than ninety
minutes on a film! Now, add in multiple plots and characters,
as most of Bollywood's masala films do, and you'll have
completely lost them! Realizing this, Hollywood
directors like to keep their films very simple. They
usually stick to two plots at the most. Unrelated comedy
subplots (such as those helmed by Johnny Lever in Bollywood
films) as well as dance numbers that do not advance
the narrative are strictly frowned upon. They
distract viewers who are trying to keep track of the
main story. They're just too confusing.
Second, it appears that although Hollywood directors
enjoy film budgets far larger than those of Bollywood,
they lack the canny financial sense exhibited by our
favorite desi directors. (Hollywood fans who monitor
trade papers know this; they're constantly reading articles
about how such-and-such director is running way over
budget!) So, although the wardrobes seen in Hollywood
films are not nearly as beautiful and ornate as those
used in Bollywood films -- and despite the fact that
the shooting locations for Hollywood films are usually
confined to just one country, rather than switching
between, say, America and Switzerland and Austria --
they still cannot manage to stay within budget!
Thus they cannot afford to make longer films.
Why do they starve their actresses?
the actresses starve themselves. Why, you ask? Well, the
grass is always greener on the other side, right? Food
is extremely plentiful in America, so it's considered
very beautiful to look as if you might not have enough.
This exotically skinny look is also very hard to attain,
since it means turning down readily available food even
when you're very hungry. People in America love
this, because they really admire hard workers.
up with all the sequels?
Hollywood audiences' attention spans are so short, it's
sometimes not possible to finish a story within the ninety
minutes in which you've got their undivided attention --
so you just continue the story in a sequel! Also, Hollywood
is a very nepotistic place. People have a difficult
time breaking into the industry unless they're already connected
to someone within it. This means most movies are thought
up, written and made by people who also socialize together,
so it's not like there's much room for fresh new ideas;
they all get their ideas from talking to each other! Hence
the slew of sequels. People just can't think of a new (and
other big reason for all the sequels: if a film does really
well, a sequel is considered a safe financial bet. Why is
that such an important factor for Hollywood, but not for
a cinema like Bollywood, which continues to make films even
when none are making any money? Because apparently Hollywood
lacks the financial security which would allow them to take
risks the way, say, Indian or Iranian directors do.
are the soundtracks mostly compilations of songs that have
already been released?
the songs in a Hollywood film were composed specifically
for that movie, chances are they wouldn't be popular enough
to sell the soundtrack in large numbers. Unlike Bollywood
fans, most fans of Hollywood will only buy music that they've
already heard on their local radio station at least fifty-five
times. (Actually, this is a clever ploy, since often buyers'
motive for purchasing these songs is simply to learn the
words of some chorus that has gotten stuck in their heads.
This way they won't have to wander around like idiots singing,
"It's like rain, on your wedding day. It's a blah blah,
when you blah blah blah.")
can't they find any clothes that fit them?
it does seem as if the material for women's clothing is
in short supply, while the makers of male garments inaccurately
assume their customers are twice as large as they actually
are. This is never more apparent than in the popular 1990s
teen flick Clueless, in which the men's jeans are
at least ten sizes too big, and the women's skirts are roughly
five sizes too small. It seems as if Hollywood directors
and actors fear the size of their paychecks might alienate
fans. Thus they choose to appear in the guise of less fortunate
sorts who cannot afford to purchase well-fitting clothes.
women die very young in America?
of course not. Older women just do not exist in Hollywood!
That way older men can still get lead roles as the love
interests of beautiful young actresses.
orchestras routinely hide behind trees, or inside walls,
or by the sides of freeways?
at BollyWHAT? have never personally seen an orchestra crouched
behind a retaining wall at the side of an on-ramp (or, for
that matter, any famous singers crouched beside them). Nevertheless,
we must conclude that this is a common practice, since,
after all, Hollywood is a "realist cinema" which
scorns the unrealistic musical interludes of Bollywood films.
Therefore Hollywood films would not include these swelling
musical backdrops to scenes like "Hero cruises freeway
to Vivaldi's Four Seasons/ Heroine emerges from makeover
session to Shania Twain's Feel Like a Woman" unless
there were, indeed, a real orchestra or singer serenading
these characters from just around the corner.
does it mean when they have sex on the first date?
means they like each other and they want to get to know
each other better.
does it mean when they say they have commitment issues?
usually means that the fictional parents who gave birth
to the character annoy him or her terribly, and that the
character will punish these two people by being rude and
irresponsible with everyone else s/he meets. Said character
may have been fed, clothed, sheltered and protected by these
two people for the first eighteen to twenty years of his
or her life, but these acts mean nothing in comparison to
the immense aggravation the two of them cause him or her.
does it mean when they complain about having to talk about
often this complaint is voiced by a male character who is
being harrassed by the unreasonable demands of the woman
with whom he is sexually involved. Either a) she wants to
hear his opinions about her, or b) she wants to hear his
opinions about them as a couple. Do remember that before
two people can fall in love in Hollywood films, they must
at least have had sex once; what they cannot do
if they wish to continue in the relationship is to mention
the word 'love.' Therefore the above complaint should not
be interpreted as a wish for the powers of mental telepathy;
it is merely an admirable indication of the character's
masculinity, and his sane, suspicious approach to the prospect
of voicing his private thoughts to a woman with whom he
regularly gets naked.
does it mean when they drink a very large amount of alcohol
at one sitting?
means they're very intelligent people who feel deeply about
the world, but unlike Bollywood heroes (Devdas, for instance),
they know better than to analyze or talk about their feelings.
Instead, they will poison themselves until these impulses
pass, and the audience will find this both glamorous and
copyright Bollywhat.com, 2001 - 2005
|
<urn:uuid:d723642a-b3d0-46b5-947f-95c298977d79>
|
CC-MAIN-2013-20
|
http://bollywhat.com/ramblings/hwfaq.html
|
s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368709037764/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516125717-00025-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz
|
en
| 0.958275
| 1,945
| 1.929688
| 2
|