text:
(the new)
Ghoulie Games
pete vigeant]
Camp Fun
= [games and activities for camps / kids / adults /
Quick Links:
Spud Base
Cupid Tag
Sink the Ship
Sharks and Barracudas
The Weather Coconut
The New
Spud Base
Players: 6 - 18
Space: Medium (A Gym or Baseball Field work best)
Supplies: 1 Playground Ball and 4 Bases
There is a game named SPUD! that has blessed many
playgrounds, backyards and hard tops for the last several
decades (if not more) that I remember playing and losing
many times as a child. The biggest problem with this game is
that children have to sit down once they spell SPUD.
Normally this means that the unskilled (like me) were
sitting for more than half of the game. This particular
version can be played with many various skill levels and age
levels simultaneously without anyone having to sit out.
Game Play and Setup
The four bases are set up in a diamond configuration,
just like in Kickball or Baseball. After playing for a
while, the facilitator is encouraged to alter the
configuration or base order. If working with a younger
group, be sure to demonstrate the correct running order (the
counter-clockwise baseball convention). I start off with a
regular order then switch it up when the kids start getting
too comfortable (about 10 minutes into the game).
Before the game begins, every player is numbered
secretly. The players are asked nicely not to share their
number (although it doesn't really hurt the game if the
numbers are revealed). A neat way of doing this is having
the players choose from a hat - so if during the game they
forget what their number is, they can check. I've also heard
of facilitators writing the number on the palm of the
player's hand.
The goal of this game is to score as many runs as
possible. Runs are scored with each successful rounding of
the bases (or, depending on the base order, each time the
player crosses home plate). Scores are kept individually and
each player is in charge of remembering their personal run
count. If working with a younger group, an extra facilitator
could stand near home plate and fill in a Score Card, but
normally I find that kids do a good job keeping track.
Beyond that, if they forget exactly what their score is,
it's better!
A player is randomly chosen to be the first "IT." All
they need to do is stand in the center of the diamond, throw
the playground ball in the air and yell out the first number
that comes to their head (that is not their number and is
someone else's number). The rest of the players start at
home plate and commence rounding the bases as soon as the
number is called. The "IT" player first runs to home plate
and then begins rounding the bases as well. NOTE: the ball
has to be thrown straight up in the air.
The number that is called is the number of the next "IT."
The new "IT" has the responsibility to leave their path,
grab the playground ball and yell "SPUD" at the top of their
lungs. The moment that "SPUD" is called, every player must
Freeze. If a player continues running when a loud "SPUD" is
yelled, they must go back to home plate (without scoring a
run). "SPUD" cannot be yelled if the "IT" does not have the
At this point, the "IT" can take three (3) giant steps
toward any player that is *not* touching a base (bases
indicate safety) and roll the ball at that player's feet. If
the frozen player is hit by the ball, they lose a run (yes,
negatives happen!) and then gets to throw the ball from the
center of the diamond starting another round. If no one is
hit, or a *safe* player is hit, the "IT" player must then
start the next round by throwing the ball from the center of
the diamond. No matter who throws the ball (and yells the
next number), that player must start a new cycle of base
running. This becomes an important strategic point for older
The way that I like to play is with a standard diamond
configuration at first and switch to a Home, Second, First,
Third configuration after about 10 or 15 minutes. Larger
groups will start to complain if certain numbers are never
yelled (although that makes collecting runs easier), so the
facilitator should keep track and give subtle hints to the
thrower. Because there is so much running, I have the kids
get a drink when I feel the game has peaked and follow with
a more subdued game. This way there is less comparison of
scores. Teaching this in a Physical Education setting is a
great way to help younger players learn about base running.
Older players could keep an accurate tally of their personal
score in a log and attempt to track improvement over several
Cupid Tag
Players: 10+ (the more, the better!)
Space: Small or Medium (I recommend a half-gym)
Supplies: 4 cones or any other means of clearly marking the
I was approached around February about making some sort
of activity for Valentines Day. I came up with this one very
quickly and assumed that the extreme difficulty would
backfire. Apparently, I was *incredibly* wrong. This game
encourages some bizarre team work and can be very fun to
watch (especially since some players will fall in love with
the challenge).
Clearly define a small to medium square as the playing
area. Using cones is convenient as the facilitator can alter
the size to meet the needs of the game.
The concept is simple: Freeze Tag meets Cupid. In a
normal game of Freeze Tag, the "IT" runs around the space
safely tagging all in sight. Players who are tagged are
frozen until they are unfrozen by another unfrozen player.
Generally this game can continue for 20 minutes or so,
rotating the "IT" every couple of minutes.
Cupid's variation involves a small alteration of the tag
rule: Cupid must tag two (2) players simultaneously in order
to freeze them. Although to the common facilitator this may
seem impossible, I have seen some very determined children!
An extension of the rules is either eliminating
unfreezing (as this would make the game too *easy* for the
players) or that a player may only be unfrozen by two (2)
players removing Cupid's spell via some interesting
incantation ("I hereby declare you enchantment-free!"
Sometimes I think this game is better as an impossible
challenge - only because there are *argument causing*
factors throughout. As a facilitator, I would watch very
closely and assert myself as the final word in who is frozen
and who isn't. Also, remind the "IT" about proper tagging
techniques! Without this reminder, a viable solution would
be grabbing someone smaller by the sleeve and not letting go
until someone else is within hand-swipe!
Sink the
Players: 16+ (I'd probably put the cap
around 40, depending on the size of the space and amount of
Space: Medium to Large four (4) walled space
Supplies: 1 large heavy ball (one of those gymnastics balls
works best) and every soccer, basketball and playground ball
that is available (close to the amount of players)
game goes way back in my physical education past to third
grade at Stratford Academy. Ms. Mee, one of the most
inspirational Phys. Ed. teachers I have ever had the
opportunity to witness, allowed us to play this "treat" only
on special occasions, despite year-round pleas. I still
socialize with Stratford Academy friends and one fond memory
is this team-friendly and skill friendly game.
Game Play and Setup
boundaries of "Sink the Ship" are normally the foul lines
around the basketball court. In most gyms, this means that
two of the sides are larger than the other two. To make this
"fair" I normally have each team switch sides every four
Put all of the balls in the middle of the gym. Put
the large heavy ball in the exact center (from now on I'll
refer to it as the "Ship"). Divide the group into four (4)
equal teams. Sometimes the teams need to be reevaluated to
equalize the game, but a clever facilitator (like Ms. Mee)
could motivate the game toward a tie.
Each group gets one
complete side of the gym. During the game, no one is allowed
to cross the foul line or cross into any other team's space
- regardless of whether they have / need a ball or not. This
rule needs to be emphasized, as the game can cause
excitement and crossing the boundaries could lead to
unnecessary arguments.
This game, like most, is based on a
simple idea: Sink the "Ship!" This is achieved by having the
"Ship" cross any of the foul lines in the gym. Of course,
whichever foul line is crossed, that team is penalized by
scoring a point (the lowest score *wins*).
Before each
round, the balls are all put into the center of the court
and a signal is given for the players to grab a ball. Each
player may only grab one ball (unless there are more balls
than players) and cannot throw the ball until the round
begins. Once all of the balls are grabbed and the players
are back behind their lines, the round can begin.
Quite obviously, teams will throw the balls at the "Ship"
hoping to keep it far away from their border. Balls must be
thrown (instead of waiting for the "Ship" to come close and
nudging or punching it with the ball). The facilitator may
have to make "ball hog" rules, but since there is no line
crossing, regulating who gets the ball is fairly easy. The
facilitator also should stand somewhere in the middle to
help distribute the momentum-less dead balls. Oh, and no one
can ever touch the "Ship." Did I forget to mention that?
I love this game. There
are so many levels of micro and macro management at work
during the game that teams have to learn to adjust or will
not survive. Even with the strongest thrower, a poorly
managed team could continuously fail. There needs to be an
offense and defense, constantly working together to keep the
ball supply up and the "Ship" far away. To keep one team
from running away with the win, the facilitator should
constantly voice the score in between rounds. A variation
that I also enjoy is having only two (2) teams in charge of
two of the sides. On a rainy day, this could be varied for
over 30 minutes without player fatigue.
Sharks and Barracudas
Players: 8+ (I've
played 4 on 4, but can imagine up to 10 on 10... or more!)
Space: A Medium Gymnasium (can be adapted to 1/2 a soccer
Supplies: 1 ball for every player (various sizes and types
are a big plus)
Everyone loves "Capture the Flag." When I
was really young, "Capture the Flag" meant running through
the woods non-stop (sometimes late at night) with a
basically unachievable goal. Sounds dangerous? Then it was
revised as I got older to playing on a field - which worked
much better as a game. Gyms have normally presented a
challenge when adapting "Capture the Flag" mostly because of
the size. This game combines two successful games ("Capture
the Flag" and "Sharks and Minnows") in order to make a very
entertaining and challenging gym experience for those of any
The group needs to split into two *basically even* teams.
The space is split in half and each team claims their side
(the "Shark" side and the "Barracuda" side). At the back of
each side, there is a safety zone from the foul line to the
wall. Place one (1) ball in this safety zone for each player
on the opposite team (for instance, if there are nine (9)
Barracudas, then there should be nine (9) balls in the
safety area behind the Sharks).
The goal of the game is to
either: (1) Have all of the balls in the game on a single
side; or (2) Capture all of the opposing players.
rules are fairly simple. The center line represents the
"tag" line. If a Barracuda steps onto the Shark side, then
they can be tagged and consequently go to jail. Conversely,
the same happens if a Shark crosses over to the Barracuda's
side. If a player is tagged without a ball, they must go to
the safety zone behind their opponent (the jail) - Sharks
end up behind Barracudas and vice versa. If a player is
tagged while holding a ball, they must return the ball and
return to their side before resuming play.
If a player is in the jail, they must stay in the safety
zone until one of their teammates who is *not* in jail
successfully swipes a ball.
Players who are trying to take
balls may only take them from the opposing side's safety
zone. Players in the safety zone CANNOT be tagged! Players
can only hold one ball at a time and may not pass / kick /
throw the ball at any time. If a ball is dropped, that ball
must be returned to the safety area from which it was taken.
Once a ball successfully crosses the halfway line, the
player must bring it into their safety zone!
The basic
idea is that some of the players will try to steal the balls
while others play defense. The jobs will change
significantly as some are captured or as the loot dwindles.
I love introducing new
games to a group of kids - especially amid yells of "Wall
ball" and "Dodgeball" or other such standard games that are
probably played too often by lazy instructors. When I first
taught this game to a group of middle schoolers, their
reaction was an expected hesitation. They left saying that
it was the greatest game ever. Of course, I'll probably
never play it again with them - I am fairly strict about my
no-repeat attitude with groups I scarcely see - but the
effectiveness with all players of varied skill levels was
wonderful. In addition, the processing that the team work
and strategies provide is excellent for educational
The Weather
I'm not going to lie and say this is an original idea...
because it's not. I visited Camp Yaguuuuuuuuu (?) which is
the oldest scout camp in the country and saw this incredibly
wonderful item.
There was a stump dangling from a rope on a tripod. The
structure was about 4 feet tall and very eye catching,
although surrounded by trees and other such nature-related
colors. Leaning on the leg of the tripod was a wooden sign
that read "Weather Stump" and followed with instructions on
how to operate the tool.
I cannot remember all of the instructions, but a simple
and clear one was "If the stump is wet, it's raining."
Awesome. I always wanted a weather telling device that was
accurate - and as far as I can tell this stump was the most
accurate thing I had ever seen. "If you cannot see the
stump, it's foggy;" "If the stump is on fire, run!"
And etc.
Upon returning to my own camp, I decided to build my very
own Weather Stump. The structure was a huge hit, although I
thought we could do one better.
All meteorologists know the special weather-predicting
abilities of the coconut, but this important information
rarely reaches the public. After consulting with many in the
weather-field and attending a secret meteorological ceremony
in the heart of a volcano (they don't mess around), I was
told about the mysteriously wonderful properties of the
coconut. The following summer, I rebuilt the weather
station, this time substituting a coconut for the stump.
The experiment was a complete success. Not only was the
coconut more accurate, but I could tell from the amount of
attention it received that everyone could tell how superior
a coconut is in predicting forecasts than a stump.
From Board #1:
"Do Not Touch
* If it is moving, it must be windy
* If it is not moving, there is no wind
* If it is not there, it was stolen!!!
* If it is white, it is snowing
* If it is wet, it is raining
* If it is going "Tink, Tink, Tink", there must be hail
* If it is on fire, run!
* If you cannot see it, it is foggy
* If it was swallowed by the earth, there is an earthquake"
From Board #2:
"* If it is acting bored, there is no weather
* If it is casting a shadow, the sun is out
* If it is involuntarily bobbing up and down, there is a
* If there are steaming rocks raining down upon it, there is
a volcanic eruption
* If it ends up in Oz, there was a tornado"
Of course, that was our first coconut which had limited
meteorological abilities. With our expertise at choosing
better weather predictors, that list will not only expand,
but also be a more accurate!
The New Hotness
One day, Bryan came to camp wearing a LiveStrong
bracelet. I had never seen one, nor had many of the kids or
staff. Somehow he had found out about the fund raiser
directly when it started...
Anyway, during our morning announcements, he showed off
his new bling, referring to it as the "New Hotness." Since
the bit was pretty well received and seemed fairly harmless,
I started talking to everyone about the New Hotness.
"Do you have the New Hotness?"
"Oh snap! Look at his hotness..."
and so forth.
This started a ridiculously popular LiveStrong fad at my
camp, just months before the rest of the world became
enamored with the little yellow rubber bands.
Shortly after, Bryan started a New-New Hotness. He was
working under the assumption that fads are short and need to
be periodically replaced by something equally silly and
simple. So Bryan convinced the campers to wear goggles on
their heads all day. My competing Hotness, as I hated the
strap digging into my ginormous head, was to wear a winter
hat during the summer.
Neither of these New-New Hotnesses were as successful as
the LiveStrong bracelets, but they were quickly adapted and
created positive murmurs throughout camp. The following
years we integrated several other kinds of Hotness, all
achieving some level of success.
This picture is NOT of the New Hotness, but it's still
pretty darn funny. How else do you deal with campers
constantly pestering you for the schedule?


text:
For now please visit the Sharpnet Web site at http://members.aol.com/sharpnet/sharphm.htm
Provide me with any links or e-mail addresses that you may find pertinent to sharpening that you would like to see here. Other suggestions are, of course, welcome also.
Or you can view the old Sharpnet Web site at http://www.reocities.com/wallstreet/1866/index2.html
Links to other sites on the Web
My "Resume"
Sharpening Discussion Group Members
New Sharpnet Home Page

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Base Salary
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Stock Bonus, Profit Sharing, Commission Sharing, Tips have not been reported for this role.
Base Salary
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The typical Eagle Creek BI Consultant salary is $41,311. BI Consultant salaries at Eagle Creek can range from $38,030-$44,221. This estimate is based upon 6 Eagle Creek BI Consultant salary report(s) provided by employees or estimated based upon statistical methods. See all BI Consultant salaries to learn how this stacks up in the market.
Looking beyond Eagle Creek?
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text:
Rexahn Pharmaceuticals (RNN) recently announced that Teva Pharmaceutical Industries (TEVA) has decided that it will not exercise its option to license Rexahn's oncology candidate, RX-3117.
Teva and Rexahn had a Research and Exclusive License Option Agreement for RX-3117, a novel DNA and RNA synthesis inhibitor being evaluated for the treatment of solid cancer tumors.
Teva had filed an Investigational New Drug (IND) application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (:FDA) for RX-3117 in Jul 2013. As per the terms of the agreement, Teva had to decide within 45 days of the filing of the IND whether it would exclusively license RX-3117.
Based on strategic reasons, Teva has decided not to go ahead with the licensing option. As a result, the agreement between the companies was terminated and all worldwide development and commercialization rights to RX-3117 have been retained by Rexahn. Rexahn intends to move RX-3117 into a phase I study in cancer patients within the next three months and plans to explore partnership opportunities.
Meanwhile, Teva has been working on streamlining its pipeline and expects to have about 10 new therapeutic entities (NTEs) in development over the next couple of years which should start generating sales from 2016.
The Rexahn deal is not the first collaboration to be terminated by Teva this year. Earlier this year, Teva terminated its collaboration with CureTech Ltd. for the development of CT-011. CT-011 was being developed for the treatment of hematological malignancies and solid tumors. Teva also announced its intention to terminate its biologics program with Lonza.
Teva currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). The company is going through a tough transition period given fewer large generic opportunities, potential new competition for branded products (especially Copaxone) and a higher cost base.
However, we are encouraged by Teva's plans to improve its position. Teva said that it intends to accelerate growth platforms, protect and expand core franchises, expand its global presence, pursue strategic deals and reduce the cost base. We expect investor focus to remain on the execution of the company's new strategy.
At present, companies like Actavis, Inc. (ACT) and Akorn, Inc. (AKRX) look well-positioned with both being Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stocks.
Read the Full Research Report on TEVA
Read the Full Research Report on RNN
Read the Full Research Report on AKRX
Read the Full Research Report on ACT
More From Zacks.com


text:
New York City says it's launching "one-stop restoration centers" that will provide recovery services and disaster relief.
The offices will be located in Far Rockaway and Breezy Point, Queens; Coney Island, Red Hook and Gravesend, Brooklyn; and on Staten Island.
Both state and federal disaster relief will be offered at the centers.
Meanwhile, FEMA has approved more than $127 million in individual assistance in the two weeks since Sandy battered New Jersey.
All residents in the state are eligible and 22 disaster aid centers have opened in 19 counties.
FEMA says more than 190,796 survivors in New Jersey have applied for assistance.
FEMA says 1,384 people have checked into 173 hotels under the agency's shelter program.
Some 836 FEMA inspectors have completed 33,799 inspections.
Individuals and business owners who sustained losses from Sandy can apply for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling 800-621-FEMA.


text: On 15/04/2008, Drew Tomlinson <drew at mykitchentable.net> wrote: > I'm surprised this would affect playback as now recordings are on a > separate drive. Maybe USB 2.0 requires more CPU than ATA drives with > DMA enabled? Can anyone explain this behavior? I'm just curious as I > still intend to install my other drives and move the external to SATA. USB devices can use high levels of CPU during transfers. A DMA-enabled ATA disk should only use minimal CPU. Also don't forget that whenever you are playing back video or using MythWeb, the MySQL database is being read at the same time. If performance still suffers when you have your eSATA disk online (I'd guess it will be better than USB) and it's due to disk I/O rather than CPU, you could move your database to another spindle. -- Nick Morrott MythTV Official wiki: http://mythtv.org/wiki/ MythTV users list archive: http://www.gossamer-threads.com/lists/mythtv/users "An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest." - Benjamin Franklin


text:
So, without initial intention, I ended up with a Laguna squared weekend. Saturday, as I already posted , was a hilly 100 mile trek out east to snow on top of Mount Laguna.
Sunday....Well, Sunday I ended up at Laguna again, but this time, Laguna Beach, CA in Orange County. Another 100 mile ride, but this time flat along the coast and 70 degrees and sunny.
I know its pretty close to Oceanside 70.3 (2 weeks out) to make myself so tired, but I'm going to be careful with recovery over the next two weeks. At the worst, I have a rough day at Oceanside, and learn my lesson. But in the end I will be more prepared for IM Utah, knowing I put in such a big weekend 8 weeks out. Also, kind of fun to do my 2nd and 3rd centuries ever on back-to-back days..
So, Back to Sunday. James decided to join me for the 100 to Laguna Beach...
And Slater and Monique (team Slamo!) jumped on for the ride from Oceanside. By the way, anyone who thinks James and I are some crazy endurance couple clearly has not met team Slamo. They take it to a whole different level!
This was PERFECT as the boys could hammer up front and the girls could chat in back. Even though I was behind the boys for a lot of the ride, I got in a lot of aero riding and definitely was not coasting, as James' easy pace is still a solid steady effort for me holding on.
Luckily we stopped at Heaven (better known as Revo) on the way back in Dana point for some triple shot fuel.
And, I was surprised that over the course of the ride I actually felt okay- that flat coast was nothing compared to the ride the day before. For the first 60-70 miles, it was almost (i said almost) relaxing. we won't talk about the last 30. Mo and I flew off the back on every hill- our quads were DONE and the boys still had lots left in the tank.In the end, I made it home and even had an hour to pass out on the couch before the night cap on my big weekend. I was set to run 80 minutes and headed out at 5:15 pm, stoked that with daylight savings, I'd get to enjoy the sunset during the last few minutes of my run. I took the long way to the coast, and I felt not bad. I realized the tide was pretty low, so I jogged up o nthe sandy beach to Carlsbad. In Carlsbad, I flipped it to head home (took the road) and ended up nailing some pretty solid paces for me (3 miles at 6:40 pace, 156bpm) during my tempo section that ended the run. The cool part was that it felt natural. As I coasted back to my house, I thought about Ironman and that I'm actually going to be doing it. And I was content, knowing that if I could end a back-to-back century ride weekend with what ended up being an 11 mile run and actually feel good....I'm on the right track.
Anyone up for "Laguna Squared" next year? I think this might be an annual spring training event!


text:
By April Balatro
Staff Writer
Saturday, April 1, 2006
Google Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG) announced it has agreed to acquire Patent Baristas, an intellectual property law blog for the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, for $1.3 billion in stock and other consideration.
Patent Baristas offers innovative intellectual property blogging that connects millions of people around the world with bio/pharma chat every day. Through its freshly brewed look, Patent Baristas provides news and witty commentary on intellectual property law from the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and chemical fields. Engagingly cleaver, the Patent Baristas shine a bright spotlight on the absurdities that prevail in intellectual property law today.
In announcing the deal Friday, which had been rumored for weeks, Google said the acquisition of the Cincinnati-based Patent Baristas would strengthen Google's IP presence in the global marketplace. Plus, it's keen to open several new lines of java-based business. In the future, Google plans to integrate the Patent Baristas' technology into the Google AdWords platform, creating a new coffee-themed ad distribution channel for Google advertisers.
"Google is committed to exploring new ways to extend targeted, measurable advertising to other forms of media," said Tim Armstrong, vice president of Advertising Sales, Google. "We anticipate that this acquisition will bring new ad dollars and accountability to the patent field by combining Google's expansive network of advertisers with the Patent Baristas' talented blogging team and innovative writing style. We look forward to working together to continue to grow and improve the ecosystem of the bio/pharma industries."
The purchase comes as a surprise to few, as industry watchers have long floated the possibility of this exact acquisition, suggesting that the deal was just a matter of time considering where Google was headed with its plans to broaden its intellectual property base.
Dr. Eric Schmidt, Google's chairman and chief executive officer, said on a conference call that he was excited about the company picking up such a strong group of bloggers and the worldwide audience of over 31,000 monthly readers. "We believe the next big thing is to capitalize on intellectual property and the key to that is going to be services like Patent Baristas," Schmidt said. "With their trademark savage wit and a sassy attitude to match, this deal is right for us."
"We are excited to be joining one of the most innovative companies in the world," said Stephen Albainy-Jenei, President and Chief Blogger of Patent Baristas, Inc. "We are bringing together complementary visions of simplicity, efficiency, and barbed wit to the intellectual property scene. Google also provides free coffee to its employees."
The deal represents a heady zenith for Albainy-Jenei, who founded the fast-growing Patent Baristas in 2004. Last seen shopping for ocean-front property, Albainy-Jenei is expected to continue to head up the Baristas and will report to Google CEO Schmidt and join Google's senior executive team, the companies said.
The companies said Monday that the deal, subject to approval from regulators and stockholders, would provide more efficient, targeted and measurable marketing and advertising through the Internet and other media. The deal, the companies said, "will create the worldwide leader in online intellectual property chat." The acquisition is expected to close in the fourth quarter 2006.
Regulators at the Federal Trade Commission and the European Commission expressed serious doubts about the deal alleging that the combined company could reduce competition in the intellectual property arena. "It is illegal for a monopolist to lock others out of the market and we'll be looking very hard at this proposal to see if it violates Section 5 of the FTC Act or even our own sense of decency," says William Bear, the director of FTC's bureau of competition. "Although they're viciously funny and snappy dressers, we're not convinced that the Baristas know beans about anything."
Transaction and Financial Information
Under the terms of the imaginary merger agreement, Google will acquire all of the outstanding equity interests in Patent Baristas, a privately held company, for total up-front consideration of $150 million in Starbuck's coupons. In addition, Google will be obligated to make additional contingent cash payments from time to time if certain product integration, net revenue and advertising inventory targets are met over the next three years. The maximum amount of potential contingent payments is $1.15 billion over the next three years. Since these contingent payments are based on fantasy, actual payments may be substantially lower. The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions. Google anticipates that the acquisition will close in the fourth quarter 2006. Substantially all of the payments will be accounted for as part of the purchase price for the transaction.
Safe Harbor
This press release contains forward-looking statements and satire that involve risks, uncertainties and down-right falsities, including statements regarding the actual amount of contingent payments that may be made pursuant to the transaction, Google's expectation that the acquisition of Patent Baristas will bring new ad dollars and improve Google's operating performance, Google's plans to integrate the Patent Baristas technology into the Google AdWords platform following the consummation of the acquisition, and the expectation that the Baristas will even show up for work. Such statements are just pretend and involve risks and uncertainties such that an actual acquisition may differ materially. Factors that could cause actual results to differ from our make-believe expectations include the failure to (1) accurately estimate the amount of the contingent payments because of mistaken assumptions or predictions about the ability of the Patent Baristas to achieve the performance targets described above, (2) receive regulatory approval for the acquisition, (3) successfully integrate Patent Baristas and its bloggers into our organization and achieve expected synergies, (4) compete successfully in this highly competitive and rapidly changing marketplace in which we have no significant previous experience and (5) provide decent enough coffee to retain key bloggers. These and other falsehoods are detailed from time to time in our periodic reports that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Google is a registered trademark of Google Inc. All other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated.
Barista Stephen Albainy-Jenei is also a patent attorney and Member of Frost Brown Todd LLC. When not serving up patent chat over a cup of java, he's working closely with biotechnology and emerging growth companies to brew up successful technology transactions.
Google-Patent Baristas, Inc.
© Copyright 2006.


text:
On the way home
Lambs to the slaughter today, scored 5 could have been 7, Rotherham were by far the poorest team I have seen at HQ for years, fair play they scored a cracking goal and never gave up, however they will struggle in League 1.
Rangers at times played some lovely football but rarely got out of second gear.
Every player had a decent game with Hall for me being MOTM.
Only negative for me and after. 5-1 home win seems a bit churlish was the initial set up of the team,
3-5-2 did not work that well as we lacked an outlet for our defenders to pass to, did we really need 3 centre backs instead of playing Pavel on the wing.
Still safe this year and with a few well choosen signing we could gel into a very good team.


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Step 1: Starting Position: Holding the TRX handles in each hand, turn yourself to face away from the anchor point. Position your hands overhead with a 90-degree bend in your elbows, and elbows pointing forward with neutral wrists. Assume a split-stance position, lunging forward until the straps become tight. Maintain this foot position throughout the exercise. Stiffen your torso by bracing your core.
Step 2: Upward Phase: Exhale and slowly extend your elbows by pressing your body away from your arms. Your upper arms should not move, your elbows should continue to point forward, and your wrists should remain in the neutral position. Maintain a stiff torso aligning your head and spine, and avoid any sagging or arching in your low back or hips.
Step 3: Downward Phase: While maintaining a stable torso, inhale and slowly lower your body back towards your starting position keeping your head and spine aligned together. You can increase the intensity of this exercise by positioning your body further away from the anchor point of the TRX and lengthening the straps.
For more fitness information and to find an ACE-certified fitness professional near you, visit ACEfitness.org. To learn more about the TRX Suspension System, visit FitnessAnywhere.com.
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"One has gone to a single woman who lives alone,
in subsized housing in Lincoln. She doesn't get out
of the house very much. She had prayying for a
computer. This was an answer to her prayer, in her
view. The parishioners who took the computer to
her were also deeply touched by her gratitude and
her excitement over the gift"
"Two have gone another family in St. Catharined a
single mom, no job on welfare, trying hard to raise
the children as best she can. The two kids will be
able to use them for schoolwork: the mom is
committed to setting aside some money each month
so they can acces internt. Again, a very happy family
with this unexpected blessing."
"One computer went to a young girls whose natural
father abandoned the family several years ago and is
now in jail. The mother has remarried a young man
who is in the process of adopting the girl and she is
delighted. The man was a drug addict, has gone
straight and clean for five years and has held down a
job during that time. The girl has ADHD, has trouble
focusing, but is very creative. I have told her that
when she graduates this year, she would receive a
computer to go into next year. She is overjoyed."
"Two computers have gone to a family (single mom)
with two children who will use them for school. The
family has had many difficulties, out of work, and the
grandparents are helping out, but the grandparents
are not wealthy either. This family live in
St. Catharined, in lower income housing.
The kids are delighted."
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Do Video Games and TV Affect Your Child's Attention Span?
Research published in the July 2010 edition of the journal Pediatrics finds a strong correlation between screen time and attention problems. The authors of the study found that the associations between screen time and attention problems were similar across age (middle childhood/adolescence/young adulthood) and across media types (video games/television).
Experimental Design
The study looked at video game and television habits as reported by the children and their parents, as well as reports from the children's teachers regarding their performance in school, including any attention problems. More than 1300 kids in grades 3, 4, and 5 took part in the study. The study's authors found that children who exceeded the recommended two hours of screen time per day were 1.5 times more likely to exhibit attention problems in school.
Correlation doesn't equal Causation
The first caveat to these findings is that correlational data only go so far. We know there is a relationship between attention and screen time, but teasing out the details of this relationship requires further research. Do video games cause attention problems or do kids with attention problems play more video games? Are there other factors at play, such as not getting enough exercise or regular sleep? Without a randomized controlled trial we cannot draw any causal conclusions about how video games affect children's attention spans.
The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Canadian Pediatric Society both recommend limiting children's screen time to no more than two hours per day. Between handheld video game devices, television, computers, console games, and movies this recommendation will be one that is increasingly difficult to implement.
What's Your Strategy?
I recently heard about one parent's unique approach to managing their child's handheld gaming time; they give their child one battery charge per week, then it is up to the child to spend it wisely throughout the week. What's your media management strategy? Post a comment below and share your tips for how to enjoy media wisely.
Kidobi provides smart media solutions for parents with young children. Our unique technology adapts to the skill level of each child, creating tailor-made, ad-free playlists that are just right for them. Give your child media that matters! Visit www.kidobi.com today to make screen time count!
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What does MIGS mean in Educational?
This page is about the meanings of the acronym/abbreviation/shorthand MIGS in the Community field in general and in the Educational terminology in particular.
Marvelous Incorporated Grading System
Find a translation for MIGS in other languages:
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Discuss this MIGS abbreviation with the community:
Use the citation below to add this abbreviation to your bibliography:
"MIGS." Abbreviations.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2018. Web. 24 Mar. 2018. <https://www.abbreviations.com/term/353613>.


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17 Sep, 2009
Take note: paint code for Camaro RS wheels
Posted by: admin In: Main ()
This bit of info regarding the RS wheels (which come with the RS package) may prove to be helpful to many of you in the future as you rack up the miles on your Camaro and invariably encounter some scratches, chips, and other imperfections on your RS wheels.
The paint code for the RS wheels is WA-263M (Midnight Silver). As long as the damage to your wheels is not too severe, you should be able to order some touch-up paint in this color to restore and repair your wheels.
Read more on this story at the following LINK


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Detox And Cleanse Reviews
With the modern diet, it is now known that you could have up to 10 pounds of undigested food lining your intestines and digestive system. And that is not good for a number of reasons.
For starters, the waste can be reabsorbed back into your bloodstream, which is obviously not a good thing and can cause all kinds of problems. Then of course all that waste can block the nutrients in the food you eat from being absorbed.
If you are taking any vitamins or other supplements, they are not going to be absorbed as efficiently as they could be. You will be wasting your money and not getting the full benefit.
Detox & Cleanse Complete uses a variety of natural detoxing agents to gently clean out all that waste which is preventing you reaching the level of health you deserve. It does not contain additives, fillers, sugars, or starches that many leading colon cleansers use.
Turn Back The Toxin Clock
Unfortunately, modern life takes its toll on our body. As we rush around, trying to get everything done and keep everyone happy, we even want our food to be convenient. So fast food, not healthy, nutritious food is the order of the day.
Problem is, that fast food is not as fast when it goes through your body! Because it is refined dead food, low in fibre and high in fat and preservatives, it can clog your system, coating your intestines and colon.
Think about it, we average around 3 or 4 meals per day and the average person has a bowel movement once a day if they are lucky. Where does the rest go? Is there any wonder why you feel so rough?
Sluggish, tired, bloated, flatulent and all thanks to a lovely coating of impacted waste lining your colon. It is time to get your colon squeaky clean and feel the difference it makes to your energy levels, mood and overall sense of well being.
Detox and Cleanse purifies, cleans and removes waste matter from the digestive tract which has usually accumulated over a period of several years. Once you have rid your body of waste matter, it is not unusual to experience a sudden drop in your weight and waist size.
Proven Cutting Edge Ingredients
Work In Harmony With Your Body
Each one of these ingredients can help your body to detox, but combined
they become a toxin flushing powerhouse.
A Powerful Blend Of Specifically Selected Herbals Including: Fennel Seed, Cascara Sagrada, Ginger Goldenseal, Pumpkin Seed, Buckthorne Root, Licorice Root, Rhubarb, Citrus Pectin, Acidophilus, Cape Aloe, Bentonite Clay, Aloe Vera, Cayenne Pepper, Senna, Oat Bran, Prune Juice, Flax Seed Oil.
Fennel Seed
Helps with proper digestion of your food and cures acidity/bloating problems in the stomach. It is also mildly diuretic, helping with the removal of toxic substances from the body and it also helps to control your appetite.
Cascara Sagrada
Used for over 1000 years this is known as a very safe laxative, which induces peristaltic action within 8-12 hours. Regularly used by those who fast, as it assists detox by helping the body to purge the intestine and colon, removing large amounts of impurities.
Ginger is known to act as a gastronintestinal antispasmodic and is often used for the treatment of flatulence, indigestion and diarrhea. According to recent studies, ginger inhibits the production of cytokines, chemicals which promote inflammation.
According to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Goldenseal really has the possibility to cleanse the body of damaging fungi, bacteria, protozoa and other hazardous micro-organisms, due to its high berberine content.
Rhubarb Citrus Pectin
Research suggests that modified citrus pectin can help your body to flush out toxic substances. In fact a 2008 study* showed that modified citrus pectin can bind to heavy metals, removing them from the bloodstream, therefore helping the treatment of lead poisoning.
Psyllium Husks
Psyllium is used as a gentle bulk-forming laxative as it is high in soluble fibre. It helps to clean toxic substances from the colon, including heavy metals, by soaking them off the intestine walls, then transporting the waste through the intestinal tract.
I feel so much better after using this product. I was feeling really lethargic, bloated and seemed to be mildly constipated most of the time. Even after upping my water intake it did not really help. After using Detox and Cleanse for a few weeks I feel lighter, cleaner inside, the bloating has gone and I seem to have a lot more energy already. Really pleased.
Jane Anston. Wakefield. UK
I have tried various detox supplements before and had varying degrees of success with them. Detox & Cleanse is my favourite so far as I can virtually feel it working. There is a lot of gunk leaving my body so to speak and after just 2 weeks, I can really feel a difference in my energy levels. Not only that but I am not getting so tired through the day and have not needed my powernap for the last few days.
John Brewer. Brighton. UK


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Lobster On Stripes Navy Indoor Outdoor Pillow
Move your mouse over image or click to enlarge
Welcome your friend with a beach coastal pillow that can accent your coastal living indoors or out doors.The Lobster On Stripes Navy Pillow will welcome you to the sofa in true coastal style.
These pillows are made with a tufted Polyacrylic face, a 100% Polyester back and a 100% Polyester Insert making them safe for Indoors or Outdoors. Loose Tufting adds character to these playful and easy care pillows suitable for any Indoor or Outdoor area
Care Instruction Hand wash with mild detergent. Air dry flat. Do not use a hard bristle brush.
Size: 18x18 inches
See matching rug.
Returns incur a 20% restocking charge, 25% if shipped free.


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No doubt, you've heard about the latest irresponsible fiscal/monetary proposal to be floated by members of Congress and the erstwhile economist, Paul Krugman, whose lunch was just eaten by Jon Stewart.
It entails having the Treasury avoid the federal debt limit by handing the Federal Reserve a single $1 trillion platinum coin. The Fed would then credit the Treasury's bank account with $1 trillion, which the Fed could spend on the President's lunch, a $200 toilet seat, a new aircraft carrier, more Medicare spending – anything it wants.
Is there anything special about platinum? Well, yes. The coin doesn't have to contain $1 trillion worth of platinum. It can be microscopic for all the Fed cares as long as they can use a electron microscope to read the $1 trillion In God We Trust inscription. But it has to be made out of platinum. No other metal or substance, like a piece of pizza, will do. The reason is that the Treasury has the right, by an obscure law, to mint platinum coins, but only platinum coins. Otherwise, making money by making money is the Fed's domain.Countries that pay for what they spend by printing money or, these days, creating it electronically, are usually broke. That certainly fits our bill.
Our country is completely, entirely, and thoroughly broke. In fact, we're in worst fiscal shape than any developed country, including Greece. We have fantastically large expenditures coming due in the form of Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid payments to the baby boom generations – I.O.U.s, which we've conveniently kept off the books.
When the boomers are fully retired, Uncle Sam will need to cough up $3 trillion (in today's dollars) per year to pay us (I'm one of us.) these benefits. To put $3 trillion in perspective, it's 1.5 times Russia's GDP.
These benefits are called entitlements because, presumably, we feel we are entitled to hit up our children to cover their costs. Borrowing from them and letting them tax themselves and their kids to pay themselves back is a good trick, but it's running afoul of the debt ceiling. Taxing them more and promising to the pay them benefits they'll never receive is an old trick that's run its course. So we're now onto printing money that will, we hope, raise prices only after we have protected our assets against inflation.
And we're printing lots and lots of money. Indeed, over the past five years, the Treasury has, in effect, done its $1 trillion coin trick twice.
Come again?
Well, substitute a $2 trillion piece of paper called a Treasury bond for the platinum coin. Suppose the Treasury prints up such a piece of paper and hands it to the Fed and the Fed puts $2 trillion into its account. No difference right, except for the lack of platinum.Read More...
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Search the Community
Showing results for tags 'suggestion list'.
Found 1 result
Vex's Suggestion List
Vex posted a topic in SuggestionsSuggestions for server : - Add a npc health bar when u are killing it. - Add mystics to mage shop (not any mage armor on it except ghostly robes). - Add off-hand crossbow in g.e. & off-hands in dungeoneering shop. - Auto gold picker gives this message : https://gyazo.com/25b643416ad762ebeb3a3fd8772b8913 and when u filter it, it doesnt go away and it pretty annoying all those numbers ;-; - Fix crystal chest drops, like tin ores copper ores... i mean ur grinding pvming and as extra reward u get tin ores? Yeah... and they go for like 2M ea so mhm - Add something in-game where u can see the donator features. Or on forums. - Daganoth kings way too op. Cant hit above 100's. - Add other drops at Barrelchest, only gives coins. - Make new slayer rewards, still same from source (not hating), but perhaps abit more custom rewards would be nice. - Update the command ;;rules - Add Dwarf Multi Cannon, with a quest. And please not like other servers quest. Which is completed in like litteraly 2 minutes... - Perhaps a custom donor shop? @members zone. - A list to know what pets can be obtained and which you already have. Im sure some people will grind out all pets in end-game. - Add copletetionist cape stand. & trimmed one also. - Vote highscores don't work (well doesn't show the players). - Keep the server amazing with <3 from me :-D


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By Maurice Fitzmaurice, Ed Carty, Sarah Stack and Brian Hutton
Tanaiste Eamon Gilmore said sorry last night after a report found members of the Garda colluded in the murder of two RUC men.
He added he was "appalled and saddened" as judge Peter Smithwick reported he was "satisfied there was collusion in the murders" of Chief
Superintendent Harry Breen and Superintendent Bob Buchanan on March 20, 1989.
Mr Gilmore said: "On behalf of the Government and the people of Ireland, I apologise without reservation to the Breen and Buchanan families for
any failings identified in the report on the part of the State or any of its agencies."
Justice Minister Alan Shatter added: "Even with the passage of 24 years and the positive developments which have taken place on the island since, our condemnation of their murder should be as strong today as it was then."
In his 500-page report the veteran judge said the "circumstances alone point towards a conclusion that information was leaked in order to trigger the commencement of the operation" in which the two men were ambushed by an IRA squad as they returned from a meeting at Dundalk Garda station.
He added: "I am satisfied that the evidence points to the fact that there was someone within the [Dundalk] Garda station assisting the IRA."
However, Justice Smithwick goes on to outline his belief on whether three members of the Garda named in the Tribunal passed on information to
the IRA which was related to the attack at Edenappa Road near Jonesborough in South Armagh.
He said ex-Sergeant Finbarr Hickey was not on duty on the day of the murders so he is "satisfied that he was not in a position to pass information to the IRA which facilitated the ambush".
On retired Sergeant Leo Colton, the judge said "on a strong balance of probabilities, that he was someone who in the course of 1995 and 1996 assisted the Provisional IRA" but it is unclear when this relationship began.
The judge added "the evidence does not establish that he colluded with the Provisional IRA in the murders of the two officers".
In relation to retired Detective Sergeant Owen Corrigan, the judge found he "had a series of inappropriate dealings with the Provisional IRA going back until at least mid-1991".
But he said he was "not satisfied that that evidence is of sufficient substance and weight to establish that Mr Corrigan did in fact collude in the fatal shootings".
Part of the evidence used by Justice Smithwick was PSNI intelligence given towards the end of the inquiry "to the effect the Provisional IRA received information regarding Chief Supt Breen and Supt Buchanan from a Detective Garda Officer 'who had not been publicly associated to the Smithwick Tribunal'".
Judge Smithwick also found Retired Garda Chief Supt Tom Curran had told his superiors the IRA were targeting Supt Buchanan but the judge said there was no evidence that the information was passed to the RUC.
The judge's conclusion added: "It is particularly regrettable that both police services acted swiftly to dismiss speculation of the possibility of collusion.
"This was an example of the prioritisation of political expediency in the short term, without due regard to the rights of victims."
Bob Buchanan's son William said: "The findings are both incredible and shocking and confirm the existence of a mole in Dundalk station. This led to my father's death."
The family of Harry Breen said all their fears have been realised by the findings. Lawyers for the officer's widow June and their children, David and Gillian, said the findings of Garda collusion are a truly remarkable expose and indictment of wrongdoing.
Mr Breen and Mr Buchanan travelled to Dundalk to discuss a possible joint RUC/Garda operation on lands owned by prominent republican Thomas "Slab" Murphy.
On their way home on the Edenappa Road near Jonesborough, just a few hundred yards over the border, a van with a gang of up to six armed IRA men cut them off.
Both policemen were in civilian clothes and neither was carrying a weapon.
The tribunal was established in 2005, with lawyers spending six years examining intelligence and witness statements from police, undercover agents, Provo bombers and politicians during 133 days of public hearings.
Three former garda officers – Owen Corrigan, Leo Colton and Finbarr Hickey – were granted legal representation and all denied allegations of collusion. Garda Commissioner Martin Callinan said it would be inappropriate to comment without fully examining the report.
Democratic Unionist MP Jeffrey Donaldson said the findings had major implications for the Haass talks process aimed at resolving the North's issues.
He added: "While the report does not identify those Garda officers responsible, those people know who they are and if they do not face justice in this world they will face it thereafter."


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Pros: Stylish, ample passenger room
Cons: Small storage, not convenient for family travel
The 2000 Nissan XTERRA is a wonderful choice for the lower end SUV. This SUV provides enough room for 4 comfortable but is not very convenient for family travel. The storage containers are small and the cup holders and inconveniently places. There is, however, good room for luggage and have fold down seats to carry larger items without the back seat passengers.
The ride is quiet but provides a very bumpy ride, especially for those in the back. Going around corners feel like you are going to topple over even at reasonable speeds. Gas mileage is the same as other SUV's in its class.
During the past two years I have had this SUV I have had the rear windshield wiper pump go out and had to be replaced. This was covered under the warranty. The battery also had to be replaced due to corrosion of their connectors. The warranty covered only 25% of the cost which I felt is ridiculous since nothing should be corroding after two years on an automobile that is used ONLY for transport.
This SUV is a good choice for those who snub the minivan but it doesn't compare to the convenience and comfort of one. For the price and those who would rather not have the minivan I feel it is a good choice.


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Millennium: A New Hope
Designed in a series of several episodes meant to be released every four months, the first chapter of this addictive new saga will thrill and move players with its epic breath and beautifully developed characters. Fans of the Aldorlea signature will be pleased to know that what made the past games exciting and unique experiences has been kept and polished in this new adventure.
If you're stuck in Millennium: A New Hope, ask your fellow GameFAQs members for help.
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We have fought battles that left more than a hundred corpses on the ground and not a word of it has ever been set down. The Order fights, but often it fights in shadow, without glory or reward. We have no banners.
Vaelin Al Sorna is the Sixth Order's newest recruit. Under their brutal training regime, he learns how to forge a blade, survive the wilds, and kill a man quickly and quietly - all in the name of protecting the Realm and the Faith. Now his skills will be put to the test.
War is coming. Vaelin must draw upon the very essence of his strength and cunning if he is to survive the coming conflict. Yet as the world teeters on the edge of chaos, Vaelin will learn that the truth can cut deeper than any sword.
©2013 Anthony Ryan (P)2013 Penguin Audio
"A new master storyteller has hit the scene" (Michael J. Sullivan)
"Blood Song is a tremendous debut... fast-paced, action-packed and character-driven" ( Fantasy Book Critic)
"A top contender for most impressive debut of the year... Blood Song is a powerful epic that, while ending with a sense of closure, hints at more to come" ( SFF World)
"An utterly engrossing high-fantasy epic from a major new talent that explores themes of war, faith, and loyalty amidst incredible action scenes and artfully developed characters" ( Buzzfeed)
"A mix of The Name of the Wind and The Left Hand of God... I cannot recommend this book enough." ( bestfantasybooks.com)
"Blood Song delighted me again and again" ( Fantasy Faction)
"This is epic fantasy at its best with action, rivalries, espionage, the promise of future revelations and ever-present twists" ( Bookbag)
"An instant sensation . . . an excellent start to this series" ( Read Dream Relax)
"Smartly-written coming-of-age story... Compelling" ( SFX)
"I still love - and want - that feeling of completely absorbing escapism that good fantasy can supply - and Blood Song brings it in force" ( Pornokitsch)
"Ryan hits all the high notes of epic fantasy-a gritty setting, ancient magics, ruthless intrigue, divided loyalties, and bloody action" ( Publishers Weekly)
"Well wrought characters, a fascinating world, and crackling prose... Not to be missed" ( Kingofthenerds.com)
"Blood Song is unique... The next Epic Fantasy book everybody should read" ( Blotted Pages)
"An immensely satisfying and immersive experience" ( Dark Matter)
"One of the next master storytellers" ( Fantasty Book Review)
"Superb debut novel"
Vaelin Al Sorna, prisoner of war relates his story to chronicler and historian Lord Verniers, as he is transported by ship, to answer for his crimes.
The story then takes us back to the young Vaelin, and his entry into the Sixth order of The Faith, and so the story begins. We learn of the strict training regime within The Order, the friendships he builds, the trials he endures, and the secrets he begins to uncover.
This is a wonderful novel, with a complex plot, interesting secondary characters action,political intrigue, and interesting take on magic. A book that answered so many of the questions that it brought up, that it could be a stand alone novel. But also left enough that. Yup! I'm gearing up to listen to the next book in the series.
If you only get one book this year this one would not be a bad choice.
My only issue was with some of the narration. Although I loved Steven Brands voice, and yes I thought he was perfect for the voice of Vaelin. I was just a bit disappointed with his lack of distinction, when he was voicing the other characters, there was a few times when I had to do a quick rewind to double check who was talking. I had to really pay attention or would lose track of what was going on. Just a small niggle. But felt it stopped me getting totally absorbed into the story.
"Why ruin a good story with a poor narrator?"
This is a very good story and had I been reading it myself then yes it would be 5 stars. I love "The Name of the Wind" and heard this was similar so rushed to buy it with a valuable credit as soon as it was released as an audiobook. Now here is where the problem starts. Its an audiobook and as such is different to just buying a book and reading it yourself. Part of the beauty of an audiobook is the performance given by the narrator. For example, everyone has probably read the Harry Potter books to themselves but the audiobook brings a totally new perspective on the story with the superb Stephen Fry providing excitement and numerous amazing voices for the characters. Nick Podehl does this really well with "The Name of the Wind" and Michael Page does an amazing job with "The Lies of Locke Lamora". Now unfortunately Steven Brand does NOT do a good job here. How people can give him a 5 star rating I do not know. Where are the different voices for different characters? Where is the change of tone, tension and excitement for the action scenes? His voice is also too soft for this genre, I expected him to cough at any moment and all to suddenly be OK but alas no. Steven reads this book to you but doesn't perform it. A meeting between Vaelin and one of his brothers is read exactly the same way as a description of a battle. These audiobooks are not cheap if you don't use a credit and it baffles me why the author would allow his hard written book to be ruined this easily. I struggled through to about the last hour then realised I was not going to buy the second part of this story with the same narrator and so stopped - huge shame. If you are happy with someone just "reading" to you then fine buy this audiobook. If you would rather be entertained look elsewhere now, buy the book in hard copy and read it yourself!
"Instant classic"
I've been itching to finish this audiobook as I was anxious to post my review and help spread the word. It's always pleasing to find a new author who can go straight into your own personal A-list. Happily Anthony Ryan falls into that category. His debut novel is a fantasy of the epic order. The main protagonist, Vaelin Al Sorna, is an instant classic fantasy hero and the book is full of other interesting and engaging characters (neither too black nor too white, as befits modern tastes).
The world created will seem comfortably familiar to aficiandos of the genre but with plenty of blank spaces to be uncovered in later novels no doubt. The plot moves along at a cracking pace and I was never less than fully engaged. The storyline was pleasingly familiar whilst being individual enough to render any idle moment an opportunity to reach for the audio-player, which is always a good test of its merits. The framing device used worked very well and I was very quickly drawn into the novel even before the main arc of the story started. I was reminded of Bernard Cornwell's "Arthur" trilogy, still one of my all-time faves
If you insist on criticism, perhaps the story was a little generic and perhaps the underlying heart of the central conflict was a bit under-developed, but the ending of the novel hinted greatly of an opening-out of the themes in subsequent volumes. Needless to say I am already started on volume 2 "Tower Lord".
Having seen some negative comments on the narration I have to say I thought Steven Brand was excellent and his voice really fitted the mood of the novel.
If you're a fan of gritty fantasy and haven't read this yet, well lucky you, a treat awaits...
"Best audio book i have listened to"
Action, drama, swords
Any joe abercrombie book
I grew to love the characters
Brilliant book, well worth a listen.
"Enjoyable - ticks the boxes"
Another promising trilogy....
It's cut from similar cloth as other novels of this genre - good old sword swinging battles, edged with a bit of magic and mystery, warring realms, gifted hero, nasty baddies....the usual ingredients, but well put together and an enjoyable tale to get into. Reminds me a little of the Wheel of Time.
I'm two books into the series, and now sit patiently (not!) waiting for the final instalment (Amazon has the hardcover version scheduled for June 2015 - hopefully audio version would follow shortly thereafter)
As to the narrator...many reviewers have already commented, and I don't disagree with them. When it comes to narrators, you get two types - those who PERFORM the book and those who simply read it. Stephen Brand falls into the latter category. He does read well, in that he's clear, his pronunciation consistent, and his tone is easy enough on the ear...but that's all; no characterisations. There were occasions when I wasn't clear who was speaking. I believe that the really good "performers" (eg Steven Pacey; Rupert Degas) take an audiobook to a different level ...........how much better would this book have been had it been performed rather than simply being read?
Unfortunately my lifestyle means I only have time to listen to audiobooks - sitting still in order to read is not an option - therefore I will probably choose to listen to book 3 even if it has the same narrator. But perhaps this might be a trilogy which would be better tackled in the traditional manner - a good old paperback. If you're a fan of this genre, don't let the narrator put you off; it's not so bad as to ruin the story, you just have to concentrate a little more than normal.
"Magnificent - truly epic!"
Imagine an amalgam of a cleaned up Logan Nine Fingers, a straight Ringil Eskiath and Jorg Ankrath with morals. Vaelin Al Sorna is an extraordinary character: inspiring, charismatic, deliciously laconic, delightfully enigmatic and just... well... all over competent. There's a dab of Left Hand of God in there, too. For all those comparisons, this is a unique, enthralling fantasy. It's truly epic.
A quick synopsis: a warlord's son is handed over to a religious order for training as a warrior. Vaelin comes to realise it's for his own protection and forges deep bonds with his brothers. It soon becomes clear that there are forces at play - an unknown order, leeching evil and the ambition of ruthless people. There are many threads winding through the story - you'll be jumping up and down for the release of book 2.
The mystique of the Brotherhood is beautifully depicted. The brothers' training is fascinating and the resulting super warriors are captivating. The characters are complex, compelling people and Ryan handles relationships with a sure but delicate hand.
"Old style dark fantasy"
This little gem is a bit of a slow burner but well worth the wait. Taking us from the early years of a young, confused boy growing up in a religious order of warriors, the author slowly but masterfully paints a picture of a fractured land steeped in war with many religous factions willing to fight and die for their beliefs.
Throughout the book we are teased with broken pieces of information about an ancient order of men thought lost to the centuries. Our anti hero travels across land and sea to try and uncover the truth, fighting countless battles and forging new friendships along the way.
The main thread of the story in underpinned with intriguing subplots and facinating characters making this, on the whole, a great listen.
"Fantastic Story!"
Absolutely amazingly good.
We get to hear the true story.
He narrated it really well. Looking forward to hearing more of his work.
Looking forward to Tower Lord and a massive thank you to Anthony Ryan for sharing such a fantastic story.
"An epic in the making"
Religious nut jobs reminisce of the Templar / Hospitilar knights in a Spartan style academy producing the "Faith's" ultimate warriors. the story follows one of the new brothers on his story
The bond of brother hood portrayed and sustained through the book. was a pleasure to listen to.
there wasn't one scene that stood out to me in this book. It was a god overall listen with many great scenes.
If I could stay up 24 hours I would of considered it.
If you like name of the wind, or the magician/ wheel of time /sword of truth series you will enjoy this book.
"A truly excellent listen"
Yes. I will probably re-listen to the first 2 books in the series before the 3rd installment is released, but also just because it was a brilliant audiobook.
The characters and the depth of the story being told.
It fit very well with the tone of the story, and the performance was consistent and engaging throughout.
"Good book, did not enjoy the narration"
I found the story to be very good, but having just listened through the The Name of the Wind and The Wise Mans Fear, where the narrator gives a stellar performance, the narration in Blood Song was not to my taste. I don't know how many times I had no clue who were talking, past or present etc. If you are able to sit down and concentrate you will most likely be able to eliminate these problems, but for me... I listen while I do other stuff and I lost the thread way too often. I have not had this problem before and I have listened to my share of books. The voice is just fine, although the diction is a bit "slurred", the problem is there is no distinction between the persons speaking, I also had a difficult time noticing when there was a change of scene, some names got mixed up and at times I felt it was read at maximum speed to get theough it.
A good narration can lift a book, this is not the case for this one sadly.
I strongly recommend the book to fans of the genre however, but I believe I will be going for the good old paperback for book 2.
"Right up with the iliad"
Love this book. Maybe a classic in time and love how the story was told. Please dont kill off anymore brothers like Valen I cant take it
"Slow burner."
The first half of the book is pretty forgettable, but it is worth sticking araound as it soon gathers pace into an epic narrative full of interesting & unique characters. The second book is even better.
"Let down by the narrator."
At first I really struggled to get into this book due to the narration.
I found Steven Brands voice to be heavily accented, and with an inability to use different voices for different characters. The story was delivered in monotone and I began to suspect that he may have had a cold when he read this book due to a raspiness in his voice.
I did persist however and after eventually getting used to the narration enough to be able to engage with the story-line I found the book itself to be a half decent read. Not epic by any means but very readable.
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text:
LEXINGTON, Ky. (WHAS11) – Police have arrested one man in connection with the death of Olympian Tyson Gay's 15-year-old daughter.
Dvonta Middlebrooks, 21, was taken into custody Sunday evening.
Police responded to a restaurant parking lot in the 800 block of South Broadway near the University of Kentucky campus around 4 a.m. after reported gunfire.
According to police, two vehicles were exchanging gunfire when Trinity Gay was struck. Police said Trinity was taken to the hospital by private vehicle where she later died.
Police do not believe she was in either of the vehicles involved in the incident. Officers were able to locate one of the vehicles and questioned two individuals. Police are still working to locate the second vehicle.
Investigators determined Middlebrooks was in the parking lot and fired multiple shots during the incident.
Trinity was a sprinter at Lafayette High School in Lexington following in the footsteps of her famous father.
A tweet from Kentucky High School Athletic Association Commissioner Julian Tackett said he was stunned by the death: "Shocked to hear of death of Trinity Gay. A life of such potential cut so tragically short. Sympathies to Tyson and entire family."
USA Track and Field also tweeted, "Sending our thoughts & prayers to @TysonLGay & his loved ones as they mourn the tragic & senseless loss of his daughter, Trinity."
Middlebrooks has been charged with wanton endangerment and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The second person interviewed has not been charged.
This investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact police at (859) 258-3600.
Anonymous tips, including photos and videos, can be submitted by texting LEXPD plus the tip to CRIMES (274637). Information can also be sent anonymously through Bluegrass Crime Stoppers at (859) 253-2020 or www.bluegrasscrimestoppers.com.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.