text:
A New Library for the District of Columbia, Legacy or Not
Our nation's capital, seat of our federal government and home to thousands of underrepresented U.S. citizens, most of them African-American, has a library in need of major renovation. Here's a report from the Washington Post, and an editorial on the subject from the same paper. Shouldn't the D.C. Library be an example of how urban libraries are meant to be?
we can start helping...
by pointing out that the workers rounded up were illegal immigrants. Information is a beautiful thing.
ID theft a red herring
Rocky Mountain News-Littwin: ID theft a red herring in Tuesday's raids.December 14, 2006.
As far as I can tell, the bust was a major bust.
As far as I can tell, ICE agents spent 10 months in which they
planned, they plotted, they investigated, they synchronized their
watches. And eventually, on the day itself, many would even don their riot
gear. They did everything but call in the Marines, who, I guess, have
enough on their plate.
And on Tuesday morning, 1,000 ICE agents raided Swift meatpacking
plants in six states.
It wasn't just a raid, of course, on any illegal immigrants who dare cut
our meat. This was a raid to defend Americans against identity theft. ICE
agents arrested 1,282 people. You saw the headlines. You saw the photos,
including the one with the guy in chains. I thought that was a nice
Gitmo-style touch.
And a day after the raid, homeland security chief Michael Chertoff,
whom many of us hadn't seen since Katrina, broke down the numbers at a
Washington news conference. There were 1,282 arrested - of whom 65 were
charged with felonies. That's as in 65. For the math-impaired, that's 5
percent of those arrested. And of those 5 percent, not all of them were
even arrested for identity theft.
The other 95 percent were your standard, garden-variety - and often
garden-tending - illegal immigrants, the kind you can find on any
street corner, without need of riot gear.
I can see the headlines shrinking now. I can see the confused look on
readers' faces.
At the Greeley plant, they arrested 262 people. And 11 were charged
with felonies. Of the 11, some were charged with re-entering the
country illegally, some with identity theft.
The ICE people won't break the numbers down further. I'm guessing
they're embarrassed. You'd be embarrassed, too. They had TV copters
flying overhead. They had families wrenched apart, just in time for
the holidays. And, after the big multistate ID theft raid, they have fewer
than 62 people actually charged with identity theft.
Somebody, please, get me rewrite.
I'll take it another step, Those arrested at the plants did not
actually forge documents. They did not actively steal anyone's ID.
They paid someone for a Social Security number in order to get a job. To
use the drug-trade analogy, they were buyers, not dealers.
That's it. That's the raid. I hope everyone got a crime-stopper's
Look, I know it's illegal to use someone else's ID. It's illegal to
use any kind of illegal documents. Those who have them will face
charges - and some will even go to jail. That's fine. That's the game as
it's played - lure people across the border with a promise of jobs and no
way to get them legally.
The rest will face an administrative charge - it's only a civil
offense to be in this country illegally - and most will be deported. And
many of those, if we can trust history, will return - whether or not
anyone bothers to build a wall (prediction: no one ever will).
No ID forgery ring was found. No crime spree was thwarted. We hear
the investigation, to find the actual forgers, is continuing. In
other words, keep the riot gear handy.
What we saw, once again, was ICE taking a fly swatter to try to bring down
an elephant.
The funny thing is, Swift apparently followed the rules on hiring. It used
the Basic Pilot system by which you can check employees' Social Security
numbers. It just doesn't check if more than one person uses the same
number. Some numbers show up dozens of times. Is Colorado a Third World
It's a joke, like our immigration system is a joke. Our immigration
policy - if you want to call it that - doesn't work. That much we
already knew. What we still haven't figured out is how much we care
whether it works.
ICE wants you to care. If you read the headlines, you'd have thought that
illegal immigrants at the Swift plants were stealing IDs out of our
wallets and using our credit cards to buy Xboxes at the mall.
What's happened here is that ICE has tried to conflate two stories.
One is ID theft, a favorite of on-your-side local TV news, and, yes, a
serious problem. The other is illegal immigration, a complex problem, and
an entirely different one.
And yet, listen to Chertoff.
"This is not only a case about illegal immigration, which is bad
enough," he says. "It's a case about identity theft and violation of the
privacy rights and the economic rights of innocent Americans."
Sure, and that raid a while back at Buckley, netting all those
roofers, was about national security.
So, what was the Swift raid about? Was it just about headlines? Fear-
It was obviously a major blow for Swift, which may follow the laws
but knows - as everyone knows - that it hires illegal immigrants to
do the invigorating work in its slaughterhouses. Swift sent away 400
workers before the raids. It lost 1,200 more in the raid. That's a lot of
bacon at stake.
So, the blow could be a warning to those who hire illegal immigrants. But
I've heard a better theory: Given a new Congress, it could be a spur to
get companies like Swift to encourage their representatives - who, it
turns out, often listen to multibillion-dollar companies - to produce a
real immigration package, to produce a guest worker program, to allow a
way for workers here to become citizens.
It's a long shot. I can't give you exact odds. But hey, if there's
anything we can learn from this raid, it's that a 5 percent chance is
To print this page, select File then Print from your browser
http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/news_columni sts/article/0,1299,D
RMN_86_5212746,00.html . ======================= Librarians and Human
Rights http://www.cas.usf.edu/lis/mccook/librariansandhum anrights.htm
---An Injury to One is an Injury to All.
Re:I would hope...
"I do think that everyone has a right to support themselves and their families. I also think that right supersedes a nation's right to keep people out. I'm not certain how we can resolve the dichotomy. If Mexico and other countries had a robust economy they could support all of their workers then they would not be cutting up cows in factories in mid-America. If we didn't have those people here legally or otherwise we would have fruit rotting in the fields and cows wandering around like it was Bangalore (hyperbole tag).
We're damned if we do and we're damned if we don't."
People have a right to support themselves but they also have a responsibility to support the communities they are in. Illegals are a very large group of people that seem transient in nature. Many come just to work and then head back to their home country and those that stay still send a lot of their income back to families. They don't pay taxes to help support the libraries, schools, and hospitals they use here and they don't try and reform the governments in their own countries to help create the libraries, schools, and hospitals they're so fond of.
my questions
Because Ms. McCook's text reads, in part:"How will Librarians Help Workers at Swift?The Immigration Debate Who is the Public the Library Meant to Serve?" (from Versed: The Bulletin of the Office for Diversity American Library Association)How do librarians connect our idealistic resource development--"Becoming American-- New Immigration Stories" to human rights crises, like this?"My question is "How is this a library problem?" She posed it as "How can we help these particular people and I don't understand how we could do that.Or "responsd to human rights crises." I'd like for her to elaborate since I'd like to DISCUSS it. As this is a DISCUSSION BOARD. And since Ms. McCook is well-published in the area I am particularly anxious to discuss it with her.
Human rights
There are many issues relating to this round up that are information-related.
In the affected communities we would hope librarians would provide information as part of their job but also as humans.
I am working to get more info. on how to help and will report back.
Hate It
Jeeze, I HATE it, HATE it, HATE it when I find myself agreeing with the likes of Greg and mdoneil. But *for once* they FINALLY - after *years* of posting - have an issue in which logic is on their side, so I have no choice but to agree with them (AARRGH!!!! - as Charlie Brown said in states of pain and misery).If illegals are, as the reports indicate, robbing identities of valid US citizens, I say: lock 'em up, jail 'em or deport 'em. There is no way to justify or excuse the immigrant's doing this, my liberal friends.
Re:ID theft a red herring
Put in some line breaks. If you are going to answer with a thousand word diatribe at least do some formatting of your answer.
The ID theft is not a red herring. The company claims it checked the workers and they were coming back OK. If the company is not in the wrong because they checked then all these workers are using someone else'e social. If the workers were not using someone else's social then the company should be held responsible for hiring illegals. Either way someone is to blame and if it is not the company then it is the illegals because they are using other people's social.
Why don't you post you social to the web and invite illegals to use it. I don't want mine be used but you must think it is OK for someone's to be used so why not yours. You won't of course but it is just tough cookis for the real victims and that is the people with valid socials that have their credit screwed up thanks to illegals.
Re:I would hope...
I usually don't disagree with you Greg, but they do pay taxes. They stole someone's social security number to get a job so all the taxes that are associated with employment are deducted. Heck the guy from whom they stole the SSN gets credit for their work.
They live in houses or apartments which are assessed property taxes, though they may not own their place, someone pays the property tax which comes from their rent.
I think they actually contribute more to the economy than they use in social services such as libraries, schools and hospitals. They pay taxes and can't get a refund of any overpayment because then somebody would catch on that there were two people (or 22 people) using that SSN.
I don't think people hop a fence to get into our libraries, schools or hospitals (they do have those in Mexico) but to get a job that does not pay two bucks a day. I don't know about you but I'm not willing to hack up dead cows for eight bucks an hour. There are plenty of unemployed people who could be filling those jobs but we (well not you and I) have made it too easy for them to sit on their asses and live off the dole. Vincente Fox was right when he said Mexicans are taking jobs even the blacks don't want.
I've got no problem with people coming here to work and sending money home. I do have a problem with people stealing ID, and people coming in to live in the US and sucking up our social welfare without contributing. Got a job good for you, want welfare go the feck home.
Re:ID theft a red herring
Librarians may post their SSNs, the ID thieves cutting up the cows probably make more money :)
Re:I would hope...
If there are 'jobs blacks won't do' or anybody else its because the wages are low, if the wages are low its because illegals are willing to work for a lot less (and under the table if possible which isn't taxable), mainly because they're illegal and will take what they can get and still be making a lot more then in their own country. There are small business here in Massachusetts with Americans doing jobs that supposedly Americans won't do and are having a hard time because they have to compete with other businesses relying on illegals undercutting prices.
I wouldn't worry about us disagreeing, I disagree with Jack on race-based initiatives, I disagree with Walter on certain issues of filtering, c'est la vie.
Re:I would hope...
MD: Thanks for pointing this out; I was about to. Of course illegals pay taxes, the most regressive taxes around (Social Security and sales taxes), but also state and federal withholding--which, as you point out, they'll never get back.
I don't have links, but seems to me there've been some pretty good studies supporting your third paragraph: That illegals contribute more to taxes than they use in services.
I hate to say this, but in California I'm really not sure how we'd manage to feed the rest of the country without undocumented workers. And I'm pretty sure the rest of the country doesn't want to pay the price of finding out what it would take to replace them--or, worse, people with their usual understanding of energy and ecology costs would just buy Peruvian and Chilean produce instead, since it's OK for workers there to earn next to nothing...
Re:Hate It
. . . they FINALLY - after *years* of posting - have an issue in which logic is on their side . . .
The thing is, a person's logic is not always right. There are many ways to go wrong with logic. See this page about Logical Fallacies at my web site for a number of samples. The question is not how logical does a conclusion appear in cases such as this discussion, so much as it is: how consistent is the logic; does it avoid being fallacious? The logic behind the enslavement and then the repression of blacks in the U.S. appeared plausible on the face of it, but it was all eventually refuted by cold, hard facts.
As to the allegation of identity theft, perhaps someone would be kind enough to surf on over the FBI crime stats section and get figures on how many illegal immigrants there are and how many of them engage in indentity theft. One also might try to find out how much they pay for stolen IDs and how how that might compare proportionally to what a caucasian could be expected to pay. You might also compare how American Blacks fare before the U.S. inJustice system against how caucasians fare. There is strong evidence indicating that Blacks are more likely to be screwed over with a guilty verdict and a heavier sentence, while Whites are more likely to walk or cop parole or a light sentence. Such a system is inherently unfair and unjust.
Re:or whatever
Perhaps a psychiatrist? ;) Or maybe the end of the world IS near and this is one of the signs??? *G*
Merry Christmas!
Re:or whatever
Crap I am agreeing with Fang again. Three times in two weeks.
I better see some type of physician.
Re:the department of spoke too soon ...
A bit simplistic is it not. If a one armed man robbed a bank and ran into a K-Mart would putting all the two armed women in one line and all the one armed men in another be OK?
Please, if they knew the persons they were looking for were not Pennsylvania Dutch genotypes then wouldn't it be OK to sort them out.
One of the local TV stations (and one of the local rag newspapers) stopped listing race in suspect descriptions as they felt it might lead to the impression that more black people commit crimes. Stuff like that is simply stupid you can't avoid reality by not talking about it. How about discussing why crime is higher in the poor areas, and why many black people live in poor areas. These are social problems not personal problems on the levels where trends can be identified. Sure the WASP kid next door might be selling X, but ... ah this is rambling now.
Sort 'em out any way you want just make it easier to find the suspects. If you want to sort them by shoe size live it up, but we all are different and it makes sense to classify people so we can rule some people out quickly.
or whatever
Ms. McCook: What do you think the library's "role" is in this? I honestly am having trouble with it. Please elaborate, if you would.
the department of spoke too soon ...
"... the workers rounded up were illegal immigrants. Information is a beautiful thing."
Isn't it, Greg. Just, isn't it? Ahhhh.
From the Salt Lake (UT)Tribute, bastion of effete, latte-drinking, war-hating liberalism that it is ....
If only for a few minutes, Maria felt like an ''illegal alien'' in her homeland - the United States of America.
She thought she was going on break from her job at the Swift & Co. meat processing plant here [in Hyrem, Utah] on Tuesday, but instead she and others were forced to stand in a line by U.S. immigration agents. Non-Latinos and people with lighter skin were plucked out of line and given blue bracelets.
The rest, mostly Latinos with brown skin, waited until they were ''cleared'' or arrested by ''la migra,'' the popular name in Spanish for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), employees said.
''I was in the line because of the color of my skin,'' she said, her voice shaking. ''They're discriminating against me. I'm from the United States, and I didn't even get a blue bracelet.'' . . .
Women were crying as they were handcuffed with plastic ties and put on the buses. Some weren't allowed to get their belongings from their lockers. Maria, who declined to use her last name, argued with an agent because she was getting the coat for her 34-year-old niece, Blanca, who was arrested.
''She [the agent] told me, 'Do you think it's going to be cold in Mexico?' '' Maria said, holding back tears.
Identity Theft
According to this story in the USA Today http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2006-12-13-imm igration_x.htm?POE=NEWISVA many of those detained were suspected of identity theft.
I would hope...
I would hope the library would provide resources to the families, and those arrested just as they would for any other patron. These people may have special needs that a local library cannot meet such as federal statutes or the Martindale Hubbel list of lawyers.
Please remember that no-one has been convicted of any crime as yet so technically they are not illegal aliens. However with that particular offense one has to apply an affirmative defense of being here legally. (I don't practice law in this country so cut me some slack if that is not exact.)
Since I don't ask, and never did ask if anyone was here legally, or on vacation, or hopped over a fence when I helped them with their reference questions I don't see how this user population would be served differently than any other user.
I do think that everyone has a right to support themselves and their families. I also think that right supersedes a nation's right to keep people out. I'm not certain how we can resolve the dichotomy. If Mexico and other countries had a robust economy they could support all of their workers then they would not be cutting up cows in factories in mid-America. If we didn't have those people here legally or otherwise we would have fruit rotting in the fields and cows wandering around like it was Bangalore (hyperbole tag). We're damned if we do and we're damned if we don't.
As librarians we really need to just keep on keeping on. As Americans we need to come up with a solution to our illegal immigration problem. As Humans we need to make sure that everyone who can work has the opportunity to work to the best of their ability to support their families. You guy's solve that I'm going for tea.
Um, thanks Chuck
I am so glad that you voiced your confusion over this, because I thought I was just exceptionally obtuse today. I don't have any idea what the library's role in this would be either. Except maybe the mention of the word "library" in the post title would get someone who doesn't normally read the political trappings of most people on LISNews to actually clicky the linky. Or maybe I'm just a little paranoid.
I mean, I have no problems with Ms. McCook writing a journal entry about it, but the link between libraries and the actual incident seems... tenuous? Or...Non-existent?
I don't understand!
Re:the department of spoke too soon ...
She wasn't arrested Chuck, she was made to stand in line while the illegals were sorted out. Considering her husband was an illegal I don't have any sympathy.
Nice job cherry picking though.
Re:the department of spoke too soon ...
So we're cool with "stand over here, darkie" as a law enforcement strategy? Just checking.
Re:or whatever
Ms. McCook: What do you think the library's "role" is in this?
I am not Ms. McCook, nor do I play one on TV, but I will reply that this is a human rights issue, and the posting of it to Ms. McCook's site journal is an exercise in free speech reflecting those things which are of concern to her. In this case: human rights.
Chuck, if you object to what Ms. McCook is posting to her journal, then why in the name of fornicating hell are you reading it?
Re:the department of spoke too soon ...
:I would hope...
Peace on earth to you as well. And thank you.
"As librarians we really need to just keep on keeping on. As Americans we need to come up with a solution to our illegal immigration problem. As Humans we need to make sure that everyone who can work has the opportunity to work to the best of their ability to support their families."
An illegal immigration link to identity theft
The latest roundup of illegal immigrants caught working in the US with fraudulent identifications - the largest single such work-site action ever - raises new questions about a link between illegal immigration and the growing problem of identity theft. Story continued here.
How do librarians connect our idealistic resource development--"Becoming American-- New Immigration Stories" to human rights crises, like this? When people steal other people's identity to stay in a country illegally it is not a human rights crisis. If you went to buy a house and were turned down because your credit was all screwed up because an illegal alien was living life as you, you might have a different outlook on the "human rights crisis". The crisis is that American citizens are having their human rights violated by having thier identity stolen.
Re:I would hope...
People have a right to support themselves but they also have a responsibility to support the communities they are in.
Not necessarly; transients are, by definition, not a part of the community they are moving through.
And you are conflating migrant workers with illegal immigrants. I rebutted your lies about migrant workers not supporting the libraries the last time we had this go-around. They do not make use of the libraries. Your statement about illegal immigrants is equally nonsensical. If they live in a community, they must, perforce, spend money in the community. They ride buses, buy food, clothing, . . . and probably sometimes help their neighbours like good folks should.


text:
Why use this technique?
Workshop is a facilitated meeting with a set of clear objectives. During a workshop a group of people engage in intensive discussion and activity in order to reach the agreed objectives.
How to use it?
Step 1: Preparation. The workshop requires preparation during which the following should be agreed:
- Goal of the workshop, what do we want to achieve with it?
- Based on the goal we want to achieve we pick up the invitees and choose location.
- Agenda, what will be the main topic of the workshop, what techniques we want to use (brainsorming, card sorting, etc) and what visual aids we will use.
Step 2. Execution
Step 3. Follow up
Advantages and disadvantages
- Workshops tend to encourage cooperation and consensus among participants. In a group setting, everyone gets a say and everyone has the opportunity to hear others point of view.
- Workshops encourage creativity and innovation. Participants can build on each other's ideas. Existing or new ideas can be combined in new ways.
- Issues are easier to resolve when all interested parties are present.
- Workshops provide built-in ownership of results.
- Increased learning because participants learn from each other and practice their skills.
- Workshops require a greater time commitment from each participant.
- It is challenging to get all the participants in one room.
- Workshops are costly, participants have to travel, free their time.
- The group setting of a workshop may intimidate some participants. As a result, some participants may be afraid to speak up and voice an opinion. Good facilitation is a key.
Further reading

subset: commoncrawl


text:
BEIJING — Injuries suffered in the course of a daring nighttime escape. A covert appeal from underground activists to top State Department officials for humanitarian protection. A car chase through the streets of Beijing to spirit a dissident to safety inside the fortified American Embassy.
Those are among the new details that emerged Wednesday from the 10-day saga of Chen Guangcheng, the blind rights lawyer who escaped house arrest in rural Shandong Province, and then, after managing to reach Beijing and come under American protection, was the subject of a series of highly unusual secret negotiations with the Chinese government.
The story involved intrigue, heroics and ultimately what some of the people involved called a betrayal. And it is a tale, related by activists, friends of Mr. Chen's and embassy officials, that so far does not have a clear ending, with Mr. Chen expressing new fears about his safety if he remains in China.
But regardless of the ultimate outcome, the tale of what happened to Mr. Chen and how he was handled by the Americans is likely to be remembered for years to come as one of the most dramatic episodes in the long, torturous history of relations between the United States and China.
"Chen's triumphant escape from his barbaric confinement is inspiring to all of us," said Li Fangping, a lawyer who represented Mr. Chen during the trial in 2006 that led to more than four years of imprisonment on what he said were legally dubious charges. "Whatever the eventual outcome, it can only have a positive influence on China's human rights situation."Continue reading the main story
The seeds of Mr. Chen's remarkable flight were planted months ago, friends and supporters said, when he and his wife began plotting his escape from the farmhouse where they had been confined since his release from jail in September 2010.
Although there were no legal charges pending against the couple, local officials had decided to turn their home into a makeshift prison with high walls, well-paid guards and sheets of metal to cover their windows. The local government's goal was twofold: to prevent Mr. Chen from engaging in his legal work against coercive family-planning policies and to keep the couple cut off from the outside world.
When the Chens broke the rules — by trying to sneak out messages or secretly detailing their mistreatment in a homemade video — they were viciously beaten.
As part of the plan, Mr. Chen feigned sickness for weeks, tricking his minders into thinking he was bedridden. Then, on a moonless night on April 22, he began his mad dash from Dongshigu village, heaving himself over the first of several walls while the guards slept. It was during the first few minutes of his scramble that Mr. Chen severely injured his foot. In all, he told friends he fell 200 times as he made his made his way to a predetermined pickup point.
Once there, he slid a battery into the cellphone he had in his pocket and called He Peirong, a former English teacher from the distant city of Nanjing. Ms. He was part of a loose network of freelance rights advocates who had been trying to draw attention to his plight for more than a year. She had tried in previous months to visit Mr. Chen and his wife several times. Each attempt was repelled by the guards at Dongshigu's entry points. Sometimes they beat her, and on one occasion the men robbed her of her money and cellphone and then dumped her in a faraway field.
Civil disobedience, she had told friends, was having little impact.
With Mr. Chen in her car, a decision had to be made: try to surreptitiously leave the country through the help of Christian activists, or stay in an attempt to establish an independent life within China. "Chen made it clear that he had no interest in becoming an exile," said Bob Fu, an exiled Chinese dissident whose organization, ChinaAid, has helped others make the overland escape. "He wanted to stay in China and try to make things better."
Ms. He followed Mr. Chen's wishes and drove him more than 300 miles to the capital. There, he was taken in by a knot of devoted supporters who made sure he slept in a different apartment each night while they tried to come up with a plan.
"By the time I saw him he was in so much pain from his injury he couldn't even stand," said Hu Jia, a dissident in Beijing who taunted the authorities by posting on the Internet photos of their meeting. "Our main goal was to get him to a safe place."
It was decided that only the American Embassy could provide that kind of protection. Another friend first contacted the embassy, explaining that Mr. Chen had a serious foot injury and needed help, according to an American official involved in the discussions.
The matter was quickly brought to the attention of Harold Koh, the State Department legal adviser who was in China on another matter. After consulting with senior State Department officials, Mr. Koh determined that Mr. Chen's injury and blindness qualified him for short-term humanitarian assistance in a "good Samaritan way," one of the officials said.
A rendezvous point was agreed upon in an area some miles west of the embassy where an official car would meet the vehicle carrying Mr. Chen. The plan was for the lawyer to be helped into the embassy car.
But as the two vehicles were about to converge, the Americans noticed Chinese security cars tailing them, one behind the embassy car, the other behind the car with Mr. Chen and his friend, an American official who was briefed on the events said.
It was clear the handoff would have to happen in a rush. As Mr. Chen's car moved into an alley, the embassy vehicle drew alongside, and the lawyer was pulled into the American vehicle. The Americans evaded the two Chinese cars and headed for the embassy, the official said.
Once he was safely inside a United States Marine dormitory, American diplomats imposed an information blackout — even refusing to confirm whether Mr. Chen was in their hands — as they negotiated his fate with senior Foreign Ministry officials.
Inside the embassy, the Americans asked Mr. Chen about his desires; he made it clear he did not want to make a request for asylum. Instead, during his talks with Mr. Koh, the State Department legal adviser, and Kurt Campbell, assistant secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, he spoke fervently of his desire to stay in China, to be reunited with his wife and two children, and to start a new life away from Shandong.
"He told us some very sad stories of his own life," Mr. Campbell said. "He made very clear from the beginning he wanted to remain in the game in China and keep his family safe."
The American ambassador, Gary Locke, who rushed back from a vacation in Bali to participate in the negotiations, also spent several hours each day talking to Mr. Chen during his time at the embassy.
Mr. Chen's wishes, the Americans said, formed the basis of negotiations with Chinese diplomats who were at first hostile to the requests, even though they appeared to have been instructed by higher authorities to find a solution before the start of scheduled talks with Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and Treasury Secretary Timothy F. Geithner.
Over the next few days, American officials shuttled between long talks with Mr. Chen and the Foreign Ministry, a short drive away where they met, sometimes three times a day with a half a dozen officials, led by Vice Foreign Minister Cui Tiankai, at one table, and the Americans sitting opposite at another.
The Americans said they suspected that if an accord agreeable to Mr. Chen was not speedily attained, hard-liners in the Chinese government would take over from the more amenable Foreign Ministry. Mr. Chen, they said, was also informed that his wife had been brought to Beijing and that Chinese officials had threatened to return her to Shandong if he did not reach a deal that included his exit from the embassy.
In the early sessions with the Chinese diplomats, the Americans suggested that Mr. Chen be allowed to move to Shanghai, where New York University is planning to open a law school. That idea was rejected by the Chinese, they said.
But when the Chinese said Mr. Chen could return to a different part of Shandong, the American negotiators sensed that the Chinese would be willing to allow Mr. Chen to move away altogether from his home province.
The two sides then agreed on a list of seven cities where he could further his law studies; Mr. Chen settled on Tianjin, which seemed to the Americans a suitable choice because its proximity to the capital would allow the spotlight to be kept on Mr. Chen, with frequent visits by supporters and diplomats from Beijing.
On Wednesday, as the negotiations with the Chinese appeared to meet Mr. Chen's requests, the specific terms of how and why he was leaving the embassy were spelled out to him, Mr. Locke said.
"We have a very strict protocol where we had to specifically ask him, 'Are you willing to go and is this what you want to do,' " Mr. Locke said. "Unless there is an affirmative in front of witnesses, we won't allow anyone or let anyone leave a consulate or embassy." A written document with details of assurances by both sides was not feasible on the grounds that it would take too long to finalize, officials said.
In the end, they said, Mr. Chen did not hesitate. When Mr. Locke asked him if he was ready to leave the embassy and go to the hospital where his wife and family were waiting, Mr. Chen replied, "zou," using the Chinese for "let's go," an American official said.
But the exhilaration faded not long after Mr. Chen was reunited with his family. His wife told him she had been threatened by officials, and after speaking by phone with several supporters, Mr. Chen seemed to have a change of heart.
Friends say he was also spooked by the presence of plainclothes police officers at the hospital. It did not help that United States officials had gone home for the evening.
Mr. Chen's mounting fears could be charted in phone conversations with Teng Biao, his former legal adviser and a prominent rights defender who posted a transcript of their conversations on Twitter.
In it, Mr. Teng expressed alarm at Mr. Chen's decision to reject asylum in the United States and urged him to reconsider for the sake of his family.
"If you don't leave China, maybe they will leave you alone for a while, but horrible retaliation will be waiting for you," Mr. Teng said. "It is going to be worse than the four years in jail or two years under house arrest."Continue reading the main story


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Day 4…
Blogging from the iPad is not ideal. But it seems our generous, unsecured wifi router "Postelnek" has disappeared, leaving me blogging the past 2 days using a combination of the WordPress app, Safari and 3Gs. The good news is that I think I've finally mastered how to copy/paste on an iPad (yes, I'm slow); the bad news is that typing any thing longer than a few sentences is just somewhat awful. I've asked both of our next door neighbors if they would want to share their Internet with us, but so far, neither has jumped at that opportunity. To be fair to Postelnek, we'd only been using the connection for a few weeks since our old upstairs neighbors (who we shared Internet with) moved. Looks like we'll be adding another utility bill just in time for the holidays!
Onward and upward! This small story was shared with you as a demonstration to how committed I am to this recipe of the day effort, and today I bring you Pumpkin Lasagna Rolls from Kokocooks. I've been doing some interesting things lately with pumpkin and apples, but I've never actually tried pumpkin in pasta. It looks totally delicious, and if I make this, I'll let you know how it turns out.
Pumpkin Lasagna Rolls
6 lasagna noodles
Pumpkin filling:
15 oz solid packed pumpkin
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp cloves
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground ginger
Cheese filling:
15 oz. carton of part-skim ricotta cheese
2 Tbs chopped fresh sage
½ tsp salt
Bechamel Sauce:
2 c. whole milk
2 T butter
2 T flour
1/4 tsp fresh nutmeg
1 tsp fresh lemon zest
¼ c fresh grated Parmesan cheese
Bring a large pot of water to boil on a stove. Drop in lasagna noodles and simmer until pliable, 9-10 minutes. Place noodles to cool over the lip of a large mixing bowl, draping one portion of the noodle on the outside of the bowl and one on the inside.
In a bowl, combine the ingredients of the pumpkin filling. In a separate bowl, combine the ingredients of the cheese filling.
In a sauce pan, melt butter. Add flour and cook combination a few minutes until golden. Whisk in milk and bring to a simmer. Cook 7-8 minutes until thickened. Add nutmeg and lemon zest, and set aside.
Assemble rolls by laying noodles out and spreading pumpkin mixture along the length of the noodle, leaving the end of the pasta furthest from you bare. Dollop ricotta mixture down the pumpkin layer, then gently smooth over the pumpkin. Roll lasagna ending with the bare noodle end, and place seamside down in a greased baking sheet. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Pour sauce over lasagna rolls.
Pumpkin Lasagna Rolls from Kokocooks.


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Work-related stress can be a real concern for employers. From the always-on nature of today's connected environment to heavy workloads, employees can have a lot on their plates. In fact, the Society for Human Resource Management reported that one out of three employees noted they felt above average levels of stress. What impact does stress have on your company's bottom line, and how can you take proactive steps to minimize it?
Stress and Perceived Performance
When employees are under stress, they're more likely to leave their jobs. They may seek opportunities where they have better work/life balance, a more manageable workload, or simply better relationships with their colleagues. According to the Harvard Business Review, company leaders should pay attention not only to why people leave their jobs – but when. Specifically, they note, there's a higher risk of stressed out employees leaving when they're not doing well compared to their peers or receiving a raise, or at natural reflection points such as birthday and service anniversaries. Consider developing a culture which prioritizes employee recognition to help workers feel appreciated at these critical junctures.
Increased Employee Absenteeism: Paying the Costs for Stress
Stress.org reports that as many as one million people miss work every day due to stress. This adds up to hundreds of dollars per employee – and millions of dollars per year. Consider the use of employee time and attendance solutions to monitor for patterns of employee absenteeism. Companies can help lower absenteeism by exploring options such as generous paid time off policies, schedules which align with employees' personal obligations, and flexible solutions such as telecommuting and remote work arrangements.
Reduced Productivity: Costing Billions in Lost Profits and Operational Costs
Even if your stressed employees aren't leaving or calling in sick, it can impact their performance. Employees who come to work but don't perform at full capacity cost companies as much as $150 billion in lost productivity, according to SHRM. From decreased output and poor performance to spending time fixing errors, a stressed out workforce is at a disadvantage in terms of output and/or profits as compared to an organization where the workforce is both healthy and happy. For HR leaders and business owners, this is an important opportunity to watch for the early warning signs of stress. Monitoring employee engagement and productivity on a regular basis – and offering solutions – can help keep productivity levels high.
Decreased Morale: Keeping Up Team Spirits
High levels of employee stress can adversely affect employee morale and engagement. Record low levels of employee engagement have been making headlines – and in many cases, employees are frustrated due to high-stress levels. To proactively combat this problem, consider consistently measuring your employee engagement levels. If morale or engagement is dropping unexpectedly, engage in the due diligence needed to determine the cause. Make investments in improving employee morale by focusing on employee recognition, team building, and investing in an inclusive culture. Over the long term, focusing on employee happiness can mitigate some of the negative effects of workplace stress.
Workplace stress can take a toll on your workforce – which can ultimately translate to a negative impact on your bottom line. Decreased productivity, rising levels of absenteeism, low morale, and high turnover are all risks when employees' stress levels are not addressed. By establishing a clear approach to solving this issue, HR leaders and business owners can help to reduce stress and minimize the negative effects on their business.


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Kids Birthday Cake Ideas
Apr 17, 2018 – This boy's birthday cake idea would be perfect for a little peanut shower, boy's safari party, Movie Themed :: Christina Goff, 4 Kids Cakes. Sep 28, 2018- Kids birthday cake ideas and tutorials See more ideas about . This cake is cute AND yummy — and simple enough for anyone toContinue Reading "Kids Birthday Cake Ideas"


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Merchant Account Services Tailored To The Needs Of The Credit Repair Industry
The credit repair business is risky. Still, a business needs a credit repair merchant account to help clients. Financial institutions make it difficult for firms to secure merchant accounts.
High Risk Solutions (HRS) fills this gap. HRS delivers reliable, affordable credit card processing services. We work with acquiring banks. HRS matches you with a banking partner.
We can provide the credit repair merchant account you are looking for. Flexible. Tailored for you. Affordable.
Let us help you open an account. Be ready to take credit card payments within a week.
Read More About Our Credit Repair Merchant Account Services
Credit Cards We Service Most
Can customer pay with credit cards? Yes. Accept credit card payments online.
Customers use these cards most: MasterCard, Visa, American Express and Discover.
Clients with offshore accounts typically just accept only MasterCard and Visa. However, JCB and China Union may also be accepted. Find out by applying.
Payment Gateway Ready For Credit Repair
High Risk Solutions works with over 160 worldwide currencies. These currencies include: US Dollars, British Pounds, Euros and Canadian Dollars.
Do not let currency exchange issues block payments from foreign clients!
Is our gateway is secure? Yes.
Do we process credit card transactions fast? Yes. You know instantly whether or not transactions are approved.
Are large ticket transactions fully supported? Yes. Balance transfers are important for credit repair. We have secure PCI gateways.
Complimentary Access To Our Virtual Terminal
Qualified clients receive payment gateway access. Operate by mail, online or phone.
How does this work? Simply. You input credit card information into the gateway. Just key it in.
Make your call center more productive.
I have lots of locations to manage. Can the gateway handle many log ins? Yes. Authorize multiple users on your virtual terminal.
Fully Integrated Support For "Buy Now" Buttons
High Risk Solutions offers you shopping cart options.
How does this work? Simply. Place a 'Buy Now' button into any web page. The button click initiates a credit card transaction instantly.
What is this good for? Static pricing. This is ideal for fixed-price services and products.
For instance, you offer your customers a guide to credit repair. They get it through your website. Your customers make purchases instantly. 'Buy Now' button - for greater speed and convenience.
Here are more fixed-price merchants:
Fees Associated With Merchant Accounts
Are your rates fair? Yes. High Risk Solutions is pleased to offer fair and competitive fees to its merchant account clients in the credit repair industry.
The final fee structure is only set after the underwriting process is complete. Your banking partner has a clear idea about your business's strength and risk prospects.
You can contact us anytime. Call 1-888-548-5649. Receive a fast, free estimate.
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High Risk Solutions has been providing professional merchant services to high-risk industries since 1995. Apply today and start processing credit cards. Our experts are here to help your business succeed!


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HERMES Crocodile Birkin: JLo's New Boytoy
Where to Buy: birkinsales.blogspot.com
Who Carries It: Jennifer Lopez,
Bagopedia's Rating: 5 Bags (Out of 5)
Bagopedia's Comment: Bagopedia spotts that Jennifer Lopez carrying her new toy- HERMES Birkin in hot red crocodile in Paris yesterday. It is hard not to spot this bag. What else do I need to say?
Last week Bagopedia purchased a crocodile in Amethyst purple. This bag is almost black with a purple shine. It is just so beautiful. The bag is in crocodile Porosus Lisse which is Australian salt water crocodile. That is the highest end crocodile skin that HERMES makes. Only HERMES can make such a gorgeous color.
I already have a croc. Birkin in black and would love to find her a nice home. If you are interested, please visit my online store http://birkinsales.blogspot.com


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Retail Price: $19.99
Our Price: $15.79
Save: 4.20 (21.01%)Availability: In Stock
'Dr. Bonyfide Presents: Bones of the Head, Face, and Skull' is part of the 'Know Yourself Academy' series, which teaches children to learn about themselves in a fun and inspiring way; all four books in the series together teach kids about the 206 bones in the human body. This is the last book of four.
Engaging and full of information that's presented in a way that children will WANT to learn more---this osteology (the study of bones) workbook focuses in particular on the skull. Developed to bridge the gap between simplistic introductions to the body and dry textbooks, this fun workbook includes cartoons, unique pictures, activities, crosswords, mnemonic tricks, diagrams & coloring exercises, and other engaging elements. Glossy pages, softcover. Ages 7 & up / Grade 1 & up. Consumable & non-reproducible.
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Browse below to view artwork currently available for sale in the gallery.
Click on each image for artist, title, medium and pricing information.
If you have any questions, would like to schedule an appointment with our gallery manager to view this and other artwork, or are interested in purchasing a piece please call us at 919-636-4135.
Availability of artwork is subject to change. Listing on this site does not guarentee availability.


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Our client driven approach has been the bedrock of our success. At vekiel medical, Our team of sales consultants is dedicated to getting physicians the medical products they need faster than anyone else can anywhere within the continent and beyond.
+1.(240) 395-1360 | 10411 Motor City Dr. | Bethesda, MD 20817
All rights reserved. ©2014 Vekiel Medical LLC.


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The biggest losers were undoubtedly the 3 million unemployed. The winners were stereotypically living in the south east, homeowners, working in the finance sector, buying shares in privatised industries. Whether the British economy was left in a better place is still debated today. But, one thing is certain, for good or ill - the economy is very different, and there is no going back to pre 1979.
Essay here on economic impact of Mrs Thatcher
Unemployment since Mrs Thatcher
Inflation and interest rates
more on Mrs Thatcher perspectives
Arguing over the past is one thing, but a more pressing concern is the economic policy of Europe.
- The real European crisis is the unemployment crisis
This is very important in the current debate, as Europe seeks to reduce borrowing, without really considering impact and importance of economic growth
Also the effect of borrowing on bond yields and debt interest payments
Economic shorts
- Zero-hour contracts - Mrs Thatcher would probably have approved, but how does it affect workers who increasingly find themselves with zero guaranteed hours?
Irish economy summary - From boom to bust. Is Ireland really a model austerity nation?
The Irish housing market saw one of the greatest boom and busts in the world.


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What Makes a Good Plumbing Service Provider
Ensuring our household water system functions properly is fundamental to our daily living. When problems arise in our pipes, fittings and fixtures of heating, water and drainage systems resulting to clogs may need the assistance of emergency plumbing service providers.
Licensed master plumbers such as Civic Plumbing Sydney work like doctors who diagnose and treat problematic plumbing fixtures such as sinks, bathtubs, water heaters, hot water tanks, garbage disposal units and dishwashers.
Employing a reliable plumbing contractor should be well-scrutinized as repair and maintenance of plumbing home improvement may be costly in the long run if plumbing jobs need to be undertaken several times.
Plumbing water leak, fixture plumbing, plumbing heating and plumbing kitchen are the common plumbing needs that every household should look into. As all of these involve our drainage system, we have to make sure that we hire experienced plumbers who can essentially respond to our plumbing concerns.
Basic plumbing needs
General plumbers are capable of doing basic maintenance plumbing jobs. For complicated works, we may need the expertise of licensed master plumbers.
Simple installation, gutter cleaning and sink unclogging can be undertaken by general plumbers, including basic repair and maintenance plumbing jobs. Anyone can freely offer this service without any legal regulation by the government. The plumbing skills are usually learned by hands-on training or apprenticeship from licensed plumbers. General plumbers usually charge cheaper compared to those with specialized certifications.
Specialized plumbing jobs
Highly specialized works like drafting a plumbing plan, installing main pipelines and water heater, and doing major repairs may require the best plumber in your location. Hiring a plumbing company like Plumbing Sydney is preferred compared to having a one-man plumbing business. A reputable firm always has licensed plumbers with the necessary trainings for its employees.
Spotting the best plumbers in town
Getting referrals from friends and family members is the best option. For sure, they also have sought the assistance of well-trained home improvement plumbers for some household repair and maintenance.
Doing some research for the best available local plumbing service providers is another suggestion. Seek testimonials focused on customer satisfaction. If an online site provides contact information of past clients, then calling the plumbing company would greatly help.


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I never imagined that an engagement ring would do anything other than sit and look pretty on my finger but in fact, it has inspired me to create a brand new product. Introducing: Ring Cozy, a jewelry ring protector designed for people who want to keep their ring on while enjoying an active lifestyle.
The idea to protect my ring came after constantly worrying about damaging it while working out at the gym and fretting about taking it off for "safe keeping" elsewhere. I wanted a comfortable and easy way to cover my ring without interfering with whatever I was doing. It also needed it to be versatile enough to use in the water while swimming (you know how those fingers can shrink). Several prototypes and neoprene sheets later and here you have it, the Ring Cozy! I've designed two different styles for rings with or without raised stone settings and will have sizes for men and women. Because yes, men wear rings, too.
I came to LA with 350 samples that I sewed at home and have been giving them to friends and strangers to try out in exchange for their feedback. Since I can't reach through the computer screen and offer the same to you (really wish I could!), I invite you to take a quick survey. It's painless, I promise, and it will help me see whether or not people share my concern for protecting that special ring on their finger! Make sure you provide an email address at the end and check off "blog" + write "Anamu" so that I can send you something special if you make a purchase within a month after sales launch online. I wanna show you, my awesome readers, some extra love!
So, now you know what's been keeping me busy these days and hopefully for many more to come. This trip has been so insightful and encouraging that it makes finally sharing Ring Cozy with you that much more exciting. There is still much to do but the important thing is that it's happening! I'm going for it. Thank you for being a part of it via this blog!


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19 Nov 2015
White embellished Victoriana collar bib, £15, River Island
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Community Cleanup
Help out this year's Earth Day weekend!
Come help make NH the envy of all other communities! Enough snow has melted and there is enough garbage to make it a go. We will be meeting at the hall (in the basement kitchen area) at 9am. We will head out in groups, so bring a friend! We will meet back around 10:30am for snacks. Wear boots!! The alleys are very muddy. I know it's an early start, but it's really is a fun time!! Also, PARENTS are welcome and encouraged to help.


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Not Bad For No Kitchen! (Lunch & Dinner 1.24.11))
I felt a little disorganized today - my house is certainly disorganized but I had a good game plan to start the day and I feel like I kept getting distracted from the plan. Enough was accomplished to let me call it quits now but tomorrow will be a busy day since they pushed up our move date up to Wednesday!
I got several more boxes loaded up but I am at the point where I feel like this whole packing thing is never ending! Who knew we had so much stuff?! I was a little surprised when they asked if we could move Wednesday instead of Thursday (they are hoping to do it in between the forecasted Tuesday and Thursday snowstorms). The more I thought about it though I figured that is one day sooner that we can get settled and back to normal so I figured it was better to go early than to wait until Friday. Tomorrow is going to be a long day with class in the morning and a final push to pack up all the last items. I may have to call in a friend if Mike can't get home.
Today despite not really having a kitchen set up I did pretty good with eating healthy. I bought a salad at Whole Foods this morning to have for lunch, then I sipped on a latte mid-afternoon and pulled together a spinach ravioli and chicken meatball dinner using the two pans, 1 spoon and1 cookie sheet I left unpacked. It felt good to have a normal day mixed into this stretch of take-out meals. Just a couple more days of it I hope!


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We are a dedicated group of Consultant Cardiologists specialising in the treatment of abnormal heart rhythms. We work as a cohesive team both in our NHS hospital and in the private sector and strive to deliver the best quality of care.
We have vast experience with patients needing treatment for abnormal heart rhythms caused by heart rhythm problems and collectively we have performed 4686 electrophysiology procedures from 2002 to this year. Of these, 1017 have been procedures to cure atrial fibrillation. Click here to see the full list of procedures that we perform.
Our services to treat abnormal heart rhythms include consultation with patients, investigations, ablation treatments and pacemaker implants for all heart rhythm conditions. For complex procedures we believe that the best results are achieved with the skills of two of our consultants working together. We are also able to provide ultrasound imaging of the heart and cardiac catheterisation services.
Our Safety Record
We have looked at all our procedures over the last 9 years and of the 4686 cases the complications that have occurred are extremely low:
|Accidental heart block needing a pacemaker
|Bleeding around the heart
|Bleeding from the vein entry points
Click here to contact us if you have a question. You will need to talk to your GP to arrange an appointment.


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Wine Classes
The next wine classes for 2019 are just about to start ! We offer our wine classes at both novice and advanced levels. Many of our students have found that giving a class to someone for a special gift, whether it's Mother's Day, a birthday or an anniversary, is a great idea! For this reason, we now include the option of purchasing gift certificates.
To reserve a spot or get additional information, please contact email@example.com.
Novice Class
Have you ever wondered about flavors in wines or have you ever found yourself saying "What IS that aroma"? Have you pondered the idea of how to fill out a tasting sheet so you can remember what wine you enjoyed and why? This 6-week course on Tuesday nights, from 7:30pm to 9:30, are great for people who have never experienced a wine class before. Taste wines from all over the world and especially from our own backyard, the Columbia River Gorge and the Willamette Valley. How about learning some of the history behind the grapes and wines, or some trivia that no one else knows? Now is your chance! Fun and un-intimidating… this is one of the most comprehensive wine classes you will ever experience. So come join us and learn a little or a lot!Learn more
Advanced Class
An 8 week course, for people who have experienced my novice class in the past. Learn how to identify different varietals, distinct terroirs, and various flaws in wines. Learn how to fill out judging sheets and truly understand the wine scores. This course is much more challenging than the novice class. If you are compelled to enroll in this class, but are not sure if you belong at this level, just chat with Mary at email@example.com and find out.Learn more


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share:Remind Me
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Brief Synopsis
A fashion photographer turns a Greenwich Village unknown into an international supermodel.
In the Manhattan offices of Quality Magazine , editor Maggie Prescott and her band of assistants brainstorm to come up with an inspirational theme for the latest issue of their fashion publication. Maggie decides that the color pink will be it, and soon offices, buses and even airplanes are being painted that color. While all America is being outfitted in pink, Maggie, still in her gray business suit, decides that her next issue will be dedicated to "clothes for the woman who isn't interested in clothes." In his studio, photographer Dick Avery is having little luck in capturing Maggie's concept, so they decide to change locations and do the fashion shoot inside a bohemian Greenwich Village bookstore. Never one to stand on formality, Maggie and her troupe proceed to take over Emery's Concepts Bookstore, going so far as to lock Jo Stockton, the store's clerk, out of the shop. As the bookstore is in shambles following the photographic session, Dick stays behind to help Jo pick things up. The two soon begin talking about Paris, but while Dick extols the beauty of the French city, Jo tells him that she wishes to go there merely to meet philosopher, Prof. Emile Flostre. Later, Maggie decides to create "the Quality Woman," a model who will have a collection of clothes designed especially for her by the noted couturier, Paul Duval. Dick suggests Jo, but neither she nor Maggie are initially enthusiastic about his idea, until Jo learns that the job will entail a trip to Paris. As soon as they arrive in France, Jo, Dick and Maggie split up to secretly do some sightseeing, only to run into each other at the Eiffel Tower. Later, when Jo misses her first costume fitting, Dick finds her in a bohemian café, and angers her by pointing out that her fellow philosophers have only been listening to her because she has been paying for their drinks. The two soon make up, and the next day, after hours of hair and makeup in Duval's salon, Jo is transformed from a plain bookworm into a high-fashion butterfly. For the next week, Dick and Jo travel throughout Paris, as he photographs her in Duval's new collection at such historical locales as the Louvre Museum. Overcome with emotion during the final shoot, in which she finds herself wearing a wedding gown before a small, country church, Jo professes her love to Dick, and though the older photographer is surprised, he admits he feels the same way toward her. Later, back at Duval's salon, Maggie coaches Jo on how to act during the upcoming fashion show, with particular emphasis on how the young girl should handle the press. The night before the show, however, Jo learns that Flostre is appearing at the café, and is completely overwhelmed upon first meeting the handsome, young French philosopher. Dick then embarrasses Jo by dragging her out of the café, arguing that Flostre is more interested in her body than her mind. Jo and Dick continue their fighting backstage at Maggie's press party, with disastrous results. Now the laughing stock of all Paris, Dick, Maggie and Duval face financial ruin if the missing Jo does not appear at the fashion show. Disguised as beatnik folk singers from Florida, Dick and Maggie crash Flostre's party, where they are required to perform a spiritual. After a brief skirmish with Flostre, a frustrated Dick announces he is leaving both Jo and Paris to return to New York. Soon thereafter, Flostre attempts to make love to Jo, and the disillusioned girl rushes out of his house, arriving at Duval's salon just in time to appear in the fashion show. Meanwhile, Maggie tries to stop Dick from leaving France, but is unable to catch him either at his hotel or at the airport. Dick, however, meets Flostre as they board the same plane, and upon learning that Jo rejected the Frenchman, Dick rushes back to Duval's. Told that Jo has already left the show, Maggie suggests that Dick use Flostre's philosophy of empathy to ascertain where she has gone. Dick then rushes to the country church, where he finds Jo, still wearing Duval's wedding dress, and the two lovers are once and for all united.
Cast & Crew
Additional Details
|MPAA Ratings:
|Premiere Info:
|New York opening: 28 Mar 1957
|Release Date:
|Production Date:
[VistaVision Motion Picture High-Fidelity]
AFI Library; AFI; KARL*
KARL=TCM lbx print
|Color (Technicolor)
|Distributions Co:
|Paramount Pictures Corp.
|Production Co:
|Paramount Pictures Corp.
|United States
|not available
|not available
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funny face
kevin sellers 2019-08-27
The love scenes between Audrey and Astaire enter Jeffrey Epstein territory. MORE>
Funny Face
Dan 2019-08-18
Good grief! Yet another movie in which a very young Audrey Hepburn catches the much older successful man. Today is Audrey Hepburn Day on TCM and all of the... MORE>
Love (Your) Funny Face
Fran 2019-03-14
This movie is beautiful, stylish, funny, romantic and great music, too! It doesn't bother me that Astaire is a bit older than he should be in this... MORE>


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Leave your thrills
all here with me
--Seether, "Remedy"
There are lots of books covering negotiation methods. I like Shell's because it focuses on negotiation styles, not arguing that one is better than another. However, I believe that there is, in fact, a bad way to negotiate. It's the one that society tells salesmen, brokers, and car dealers: The win-at-all-costs, transactional negotiation model.
If you believe that a particular negotiation is purely transactional -- you'll never have to deal with these folks again -- then you can feel free to Boiler Room it up, and to say ridiculous things like "Always be closing",
// Side note: I recently heard someone say the "Coffee for closers" bit without a trace of irony. He really meant it as a motivational tidbit. Wow. //
I'm not a great negotiator. I know this now, largely because my team constantly reminds me of it. When I'm getting ready to start doing deal work with a partner, supplier, or investor, my CFO puts together a matrix of deal points, showing opening bids and walk away values for each point. It's super useful -- I memorize the matrix and thus don't agree to a bad deal. However, we always ensure that our deal parameters include ways for my partner to make money as well: We don't try to extract every last drop of blood. A win all around.
I do this because I think it's smart business. The technology sector is a pretty small world: You are going to run into that partner again. And if you really pushed them into a bad deal, they will remember it. And, even if you don't need a deal with that partner in the future, they will tell other people that you are a jerk. This will cost you in the end.
Let me repeat that: A "great deal" now that hurts your partner will hurt you in the end. I'm not trusting in fate to give a mean negotiator their just desserts. I'm relying on the fact that there are a small number of providers and partners in the world, and they all know each other. At least as well at you know them. Probably better. Think about your tactics in this light.
At an earlier point in my life, I changed jobs.
// Side note: Well, I've changed jobs quite a few times, but work with me, ok? //
At the end of a second day of long meetings, I was in the Big Boss' office, sitting with him and the woman who more-or-less ran HR. I had decided to take the job, but we needed to negotiate for salary, etc. At this point, I was in his hand, so to speak. He asked me what I wanted for salary. I told him what I had cleared the previous year in my current job, but that I didn't need to make that much in my first year. He responded "Well, then, what do you want?" I gave him a number that was way lower -- actually, to rephrase, it was immensely lower. He jumped up, shook my hand, and said "We've got a deal".
I thought I knew it all
--Megadeth, "I thought I knew it all"
Umm, ok. I had expected two things. First, I thought he would comment that my ask was too low and make a (higher) counter offer. Second, I thought he'd bring up a discussion of raising my salary when (if?) I showed myself to be useful. Neither happened.
I had, successfully, negotiated against myself. Ouch.
Anyway, given this interaction, I shouldn't have taken the job -- it was, indeed, a sign that foretold the unpleasantness that would happen in the future. But I was emotionally committed by then.
// Side note: At a later point, I complained about this interaction. The person I was talking to made an exaggerated motion to cover his eyes and said, incredulously, "What, did you sign the contract with your eyes closed?" I left the company about 30 days later. //
One response to my behavior is to say "Well, Douglas, you were an idiot and paid the price." True. He viewed our negotiation as a transaction, with no follow on connection or trust needed. This is silly -- I worked for him, clearly there was a hangover that served to lessen my interest in making him successful.
This salary issue was, ultimately, my fault. First, I should have done diligence on what my peers were getting so I had some rational basis for my internal salary position. Second, I should have researched my to-be-boss' negotiation style. Finally, I should have walked away when my spidey sense triggered.
However, even if things had worked out better at that organization, I'll never suggest anyone work with/for that guy again. And I've already been asked quite a few times.
The world is a lot smaller than you think. When you are negotiating, I recommend ensuring that the person across the table makes some money too, even if you have more leverage. Karma rules.


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As the old saying goes, there are 3 important factors to consider when creating an accurate valuation of real estate; location, location and location. The price of real estate is highly dependent on the location and neighbourhood that the plot of land, house, or condominium is situated in. One only has to look at inflated real estate markets like Vancouver – where modest looking bungalows sell for over $1 million – to understand that the price of a home is not always tied up into the building itself and the size of the land. Property doesn't exist in a vacuum; the surrounding properties influence the price of any given piece of real estate just as much as the property in question influences the prices of those surrounding it.
When you consider this, it makes perfect sense why some neighbourhoods are considered 'wealthy' and others 'poor'. People of similar socioeconomic backgrounds will flock together by buying into neighbourhoods that reflect their income and lifestyle. Naturally, luxury real estate is almost exclusively owned by the fabulously wealthy. The most beautiful and exclusive properties in the United States can often be found grouped together in key areas of the country that are considered abnormally beautiful. More often than not, the most luxurious areas aren't even neighbourhoods for full-time habitation; a lot of these neighbourhoods act as communes of summer homes for families with money to blow.
Whether it's a longstanding family summer home in the Hamptons or Cape Cod, a luxury condominium in Manhattan that only finds itself occupied for a few months in the summer, or an exclusive island destination only accessible by plane, the ultra-wealthy among us certainly know how to live. These are the communities where high-end real estate thrives, the 10 most popular cities for luxury real estates in the United States.
10 #10 Beverly Hills, California
The traditional home of celebrities and California's entertainment industry elite, Beverly Hills has its name engraved into the public consciousness as a luxurious town for the rich and famous. Even the zip code, 90210, is synonymous with the lifestyles of the wealthy. Beverly Hills boasts numerous luxury real estate properties of all kinds – classic houses built many decades ago contrasted with contemporary and modern design just around the corner. The Californian weather certainly doesn't hurt the valuation of the properties within the city limits either.
9 #9 Manhattan, New York
To no one's surprise, Manhattan is regarded as one of the hotspots for the USA's ultra wealthy – and why wouldn't it be? New York City is North America's urban hub, its financial center and arguably its cultural center as well. The billionaires of the 20th century, such as the Rockefeller family, all called New York City home. One particular building in Manhattan, 740 Park Avenue, is renowned as the building that holds the highest concentration of billionaires in the United States. The rest of Manhattan isn't too shabby either; finding a moderately nice unit under $1 million is effectively impossible, and for true luxury you can expect to break the $10 million barrier.
8 #8 Bel Air, California
When the city of Bel Air banned the construction of multi-family residences within its district, it knew exactly what it was doing. By heavily regulating what kinds of residences could be constructed, it ensured that the influx of residents into its city limits would always be high-net-worth individuals. Most of the real estate in Bel Air are large mansions or ranches, although the properties get a little smaller as you go up the mountain since land becomes more sparse. The truly luxurious properties in Bel Air can be found at the base of the mountain, and they're certainly something to behold.
7 #7 San Francisco, California
California continues its unabashed dominance of the luxury real estate market with the entry of San Francisco. Significantly larger and older than Bel Air and Beverly Hills, San Francisco is also home to a much more socioeconomically diverse populace. That being said, while San Francisco isn't strictly a luxury city, its higher-end areas are really, really wealthy. Average housing costs in San Francisco are 3x the national average, and wealthy neighbourhoods like Pacific Heights, Presidio Heights and Sea Cliff all offer high-end neighbourhoods for those with the cash to splash.
6 #6 Palm Beach, Florida
Palm Beach has a reputation for being a place where wealthy Americans go to retire, and as far as reputations go its pretty well-deserved. 52.7% of the city is over the age of 65, and only 9.4% are under the age of 18. For better or for worse, Palm Beach's median age (67) is among the highest in the nation. It's not all naps and bingo though, all those wealthy retirees fled down south with their stacked bank accounts, giving Palm Beach one of the highest concentrations of wealth in the nation.
5 #5 East Hampton, New York
The Hamptons. Anyone who's watched a cheesy serialized drama set in New York City's upper class has heard the term tossed around. East Hampton is one of the two hamptons, the other being Southampton. You can't walk a mile in East Hampton without passing all kinds of elegant, vintage mansions that were constructed at the turn of the century. The area has been the traditional summer getaway for New York City's high society for well over a century, and because of that reputation it has a steady stream of wealthy investors putting money into its real estate year after year.
4 #4 Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts
Like the Hamptons, Martha's Vineyard is a popular summer destination for the affluent members of the USA's northeast. Many consider Martha's Vineyard to be an elite version of the Hamptons, with more to offer in terms of scenery and seclusion. The island is only accessible by plane or by boat, making it truly secluded in every sense of the word. The cost of living in Martha's Vineyard is 60% higher than the national average thanks to the difficulty in reaching it, and property prices are 96% higher than the national average. It's a luxury real-estate destination in every sense of the word.
3 #3 Stamford, Connecticut
The northeast strikes again with the inclusion of Stamford, Connecticut on our list. Stamford may not be the first name that springs to mind when thinking of luxury real estate, but its important to keep in mind its proximity to New York City. Many wealthier residents of Stamford will commute to New York to work and play, then return home to their estates to live. 8.5% of all Stamford residents are millionaires, and many of the others are just below that line. Because of this Stamford has one of the highest concentrations of wealth in the country, which has led to its reputation as a haven for wealthy 'blue blood' families.
2 #2 Miami, Florida
Miami has developed a reputation as the so-called "capital of Latin America," despite being situated in a non-Latin country. Its increasingly international reputation has led to a massive influx of wealthy foreigners from South America and elsewhere, which has driven up real estate prices around the city. The recent construction boom has created many million-dollar high-rise condos across the city, which overlooks the beach in a beautiful tropical climate. The influx of international cash into the Miami real estate market looks like it can only grow in the foreseeable future.
1 #1 Malibu, California
The name Malibu is almost synonymous with sunny Californian weather, waterfront property and luxury. Although the median income in Malibu may not match up to some of the other cities in southern California, such as Bel Air ($141,163 vs. $289,999) it's the sheer concentration of billionaires that make Malibu – at least parts of it – more luxurious. Malibu is home to Carbon Beach, a mile and a half stretch of land along the beach with 70 lots. Property values in Carbon Beach are roughly $200,000 per square foot of beachfront land, making it completely unattainable for even most multi-millionaires. Carbon Beach is home to Oracle founder Larry Ellison – one of the world's 5 richest people – among other billionaire Hollywood and tech executives. In the United States, it simply does not get more luxurious than Malibu.


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I came across this latest study by BIS. The motive of the study is:
This report considers how supervisors and regulated firms across the banking, securities and insurance sectors deal with the risks posed by mis-selling of retail financial products, including related regulatory requirements, both with regard to disclosure of information to retail investors and requirements on firms to determine whether recommended investment products are suitable for such investors. A broad range of supervisors provided details of the regime in their respective countries. These supervisors included sector-based, functional regulators and integrated regulators. For the purposes of this report, we refer to an integrated regulator as one who regulates banking, insurance and securities activity.
Interesting. A quick snapshot tells me it is justa study of how the various financial firms in 11 countries serve their products. I don't think there are any solutions to ease a particular constraint (high fees/ improper disclosures etc). Anyways, a step forward.


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Happy Monday everyone! We're starting a new routine of 1 nap this week so please pray for us! It's been a tough couple of weeks of napping and Friday I finally decided that we were going to 1 nap. I'll tell you, it's not been too bad. She's been much happier, I'm less stressed, but that means EVERYTHING and I do mean EVERYTHING is different. I'll talk about it later this week.
This weekend was fun – we ended up getting about 6 inches of snow on Saturday into Sunday night. Jeff's buddy and his wife from college came over Saturday night for a fun evening of BBQ and Phase 10. I love that game, it's so fun.
Sunday, we decided if the roads were okay, we wanted to check out the Home & Garden Show downtown. The roads were in good shape and apparently everyone stayed home because no one was at the convention center. Close parking, no lines – it was great! We have a laundry list of projects we are working on tackling over the next year or so and wanted to get some ideas. From glass doors in our bathroom, new landscaping and even kitchen remodels – we looked at it all.
Miss H thought the Ferris Wheel was SO cool. Couple more years.
They also had a Frisbee dog show.
We lasted through 2 dogs, but when she did watch, she loved it!
She's such a cheese! She did such good job. We stopped at St. Louis Bread Co on the way home and she ate half a bagel, macaroni & cheese and more. Girlfriend loves to eat!
I had set out a bowl for fresh snow on Saturday night to make snow ice cream.
I looked up a recipe on Pinterest.
So that was our eventful weekend. Tuesday it is supposed to 50 degrees! I really hope all this snow melts and we start to get warmer days. I have a closet of pretty dresses that are crying to be worn!
Have a great week!


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As one of the top entrants, Katy and Zucchini has won free advertising for one month on this blog, and the original tutorial is published below. I have used the exact method described by Katy and Zucchini (right down to stapling the fabric to an old frame rather than buying an official screen) and her instructions are quite complete. Check out Katy and Zucchini's shop and blog!
Katy and Zucchini's Original Tutorial:
Do It Yourself Screen Printing!
What you need:
Picture frame (wood)
Diazo photo emulsion (you can use another brand, but this tutorial uses Diazo)
Diazo sensitizer (comes in a kit with the emulsion and some emulsion remover, all for about $20)
Gauzy drapery (you can always find this at Value Village)
Staple gun
Glass slightly smaller then the picture frame opening
Lamp/light bulb fixture
Light bulb (the more watts, the better!)
Screen printing ink (I use Speedball textile ink)
Something to print on! Some ideas: t shirts, baby clothes, umbrellas, mirrors, cards, tights, underwear, luggage, pillowcases...
What would be NICE to have, but not absolutely necessary: Reflector light fixture (you can find these at a hardware store OR a pet shop...used for reptile cages)
Glass cutter (to use to cut the glass from your frame so it can be used to hold down your image. If you don't cut the glass, it will be too large to set inside the opening and against the screen fabric.)
Screen printing fabric (I use 12XX multifillament fabric, works great!)
Transparency film (you can buy these by the sheet from kinkos)
Copier or printer capable of printing on transparency film
Step 1: Stretching the screen.
For this part, you will need: Picture fame (soft wood), gauzy fabric/screen printing fabric, staple gun and staples, pliers.
• Start by removing all the hardware from the picture frame using the pliers. Remove tacks, hangers, glass, cardboard, etc.
• Lay your frame on top of the fabric so the flattest side is facing up (it is much easier to staple on a flat surface).
• Continue adding staples in this manner all around the frame. Pull nice and tight!
For this part you will need: Diazo Photo Emulsion, Diazo photo emulsion sensitizer, stretched frame (see step 1), squeegee/cardboard with a straight edge, dark space to let your screen dry, newspaper to keep your surface clean.
• First, follow the instructions for mixing your photo emulsion. For Diazo photo emulsion, you will fill the sensitizer (small bottle) ½ up with cold water. Mix the water and sensitizer, then pour into the larger bottle of emulsion. Mix well.
• Keep the room dimly lit, but make sure you can see...
• Place your frame on the newspaper and pour a bead of Photo Emulsion along one edge of your screen (make sure you choose an edge that is longer than your squeegee).
• Place a thumbtack in the four corners of the frame. This will allow you to let the screen dry without sticking to the surface. (This allows the 'bottom' of your screen to dry smooth and even).
Step 3: Selecting your image/design
For this tutorial I will explain how to print any image from your computer to burn onto your screen, however you can draw your own design on transparent plastic/glass for a simpler process. You could also cut a design out of opaque paper and use that!
For this step you will need: Transparency film, printer, image on your computer
• Select your image . The image you select must be black and white only (not gray scale). Don't worry, you won't have to print with only black ink, but the purpose of the transparency and printed image is to block light from reaching your screen.
• Load the transparency paper into your printer and print two copies of your image (if it will fit, print two on one page, you can cut it in the next step).
Step 4: Exposing your screen
For this part, you will need: Light fixture and light bulb (using a reflector fixture and a BBA BULB - 250W will significantly cut down the time needed to expose your screen!), your image (see step 3), timer/clock, glass piece large enough to cover your image (but small enough to fit inside the opening in the frame).
• Place black cardboard on your work surface. You don't want light reflecting off the surface and exposing your screen.
• Keep the room dimly lit.
• Hang your light approximately 12 inches from the work surface.
• Lay out your image and the glass piece, get them ready to place on your screen.
• Get out your screen (make sure the emulsion is dry by touching the surface in one of the corners). Remove the thumb tacks.
• Place your screen on the black paper, directly under the light. The frame should be placed with staples facing up, the fabric in direct contact with the black paper.
• Quickly place your image on the screen, center it and be sure it is straight. (Although the room is dark, make sure you can see well enough to check that your image isn't reversed…) Place a square of glass on your image to hold in in direct contact with the fabric. If you don't have a piece of glass small enough to fit inside the frame, you can tape your image down.
Recommended Exposure Chart (Revised 1/77)
150 Watt Bulb, Clear Incandescent
Screen Size . 150W Bulb Height . . . . . Exposure Time
8"x10" . . . . . . 12 inches . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 minutes
10"x14" . . . . . 12 inches . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 minutes
12"x18" . . . . . 15 inches . . . . . . . . . 1 hr. 14 minutes
16"x20 . . . . . . 17 inches . . . . . . . . . 1 hr. 32 minutes
18"x20" . . . . . 17 inches . . . . . . . . . 1 hr. 32 minutes
BBA No. 1 Photoflood (250 Watt)
Screen Size . . Lamp Height . . Exposure Time
8" x 10". . . . . . 12 inches . . . . . 10 minutes
10"x14". . . . . . 12 inches . . . . . 10 minutes
12 "x 18" . . . . .15 inches . . . . . 16 minutes
16"x2O" . . . . . 17 inches . . . . . 20 minutes
18"x2O" . . . . . 17 inches . . . . . 20 minutes
PLEASE NOTE: This chart has been prepared using an aluminum foil pie-plate reflector. More sophisticated light sources, reflectors and equipment can, of course, be used. However, as any variable is changed, you will have to adjust the exposure times and distances. This will require experimentation.
• Turn on the light for the amount of time indicated on the chart. I use a reflector fixture 12 inches from the surface, with an XX light bulb, and I expose an 8X10 inch frame for 4 minutes. I messed around a bit with exposure times, and found it work the best for me. You might have to experiment a little. Too much exposure can set ALL the emulsion, and no ink will be able to pass through. Too little exposure might not set the emulsion well, and all of it will wash off.
• Rinse the screen with room temperature water. DO NOT USE HOT WATER! Remember that heat will also set your emulsion! You can use your finger to lightly scrub where you want the emulsion to wash out.
• It might take several minutes to see your image start to appear, but don't lose hope. The more pressure you can spray on the screen, the faster the unset emulsion will rinse out. I have a 'water pick' in my shower, and it sprays a super strong stream. Works great!
• Let your screen dry completely.
Step 5: Making your print(s)
For this part you will need: ink (use fabric/textile ink if you are printing on clothing), squeegee or a piece of cardboard with a flat edge, something to print on, your screen (see step 4), cardboard.
• Test your screen on a piece of paper first (I will describe how to print on a t-shirt, but you can print on just about anything!)
• Lay your shirt out flat.. Place a piece of cardboard inside the shirt directly under where you will print your image.
• Use the other hand to draw the squeegee over the bead of ink and all the way to the other end of the screen. You will use quite a bit of pressure while squeegeeing…this takes some practice. Try to use even pressure the whole time.
Here are some ideas for some things you can print on! The sky is the limit!
You can create simpler designs by printing them on card stock and cutting them out with an X-acto knife. Any solid object is the simplest, but with practice you can create stencils as complex as the MLK design below.
Lay out your shirt with the cardboard inside. Place your stencil on top of the shirt, and then place a blank screen on top of that. Make sure any exposed edges are covered with newspaper.
Now follow the rest of the directions in step 5. Card stock stencils can be used 3 or 4 times before they disintegrate. Be sure to peel all remnants of the card stock off the screen and thoroughly rinse the screen immediately after use so it can be used again.
Below are some designs by Daogreer Earth Works, screen printed using stencils cut out of card stock. Some were then scanned and altered for printing purposes.
• Taxus Brevifolia - Pacific Yew Tree, reverse shows a molecule of taxol, the cancer-fighting agent found in the Pacific Yew Tree, available as a canvas tote.
• Blue State of Mind - Barack Obama, screenprint came out as slightly "overexposed," available as greeting card, postcard, art print, and ACEO.
• Golden Boy - C3PO, available as greeting card, postcard, art print, and ACEO.
• I've Wondered - Wonder Woman, available as postcard in six colors and ACEO.
• All the Lonely Purple - The Beatles, available as greeting card, postcard, art print, ACEO, and muslin screenprint.
• MLK - Martin Luther King Jr. with excerpt from U2's song Pride (in the Name of Love), available as t-shirt (one left!) and postcard.


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The Tudors, Season 4
- $19.99
- $19.99
The concluding season of the Showtime Original Series The Tudors brings us through the final years of one of the greatest figures of English history. Although he has been in power for many years and should by now be comfortable with his status and position, Henry's life and times remain as turbulent, controversial and dramatic as they were when he was the young King of Season 1. Michael Hirst, creator of The Tudors, sums up the season: "We're coming to the end of Henry's life but things don't slacken up. Far from going out quietly, Henry VIII goes out with an extraordinary bang. He is older, but only in his late 40s. He is ill — he has an extremely serious ulcerated leg — and more paranoid, but then he marries an extremely young woman, who didn't have the right background to be a Queen. At the same time, he goes to war. Then he marries again, for the final time, to a woman who is very capable but whom everyone thinks is a heretic and some want to execute."


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Agnieszka Radwanska's no-look drop volley is an early candidate for Shot of the Year
Seriously, what more can you say about this shot by Agnieszka Radwanska in her quarterfinals match against Kirsten Flipkens? Serving up 2-0 in the second set, Radwanska came to net only to have Flipkens' pass catch the tape.
No worries, as Radwanska did a full turn, no-look drop shot for the winner.
I know it's early, but this could easily be the Shot of the Year in women's tennis.
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Berkshire Art Gallery Great Barrington, MA
Established in 1995, the Berkshire Art Gallery, located at 80 Railroad Street, Great Barrington, MA, 01230, features a wide range of American and European paintings from the 19th and 20th centuries. The Gallery specializes in works by artists who achieved great success in their lifetime, but whose accomplishments may not be reflected in today's marketplace considering the quality of their work. Many studied in Europe or were associated with prestigious teachers or museums, such as Robert Henri or William Merritt Chase, or the National Academy of Design, Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, and Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Their works can be found in museums and important private collections.
Paintings by National Academy Members such as Guy Wiggins, Karl Schrag and Philip Jamison also can be seen, along with works by March Avery, Leo Blake, Joan Potter, Richard Mc Andrew, David Bareford, and many others.
The beauty of the Berkshires has long been attractive to artists. Consistent with this tradition, the Gallery shows representational paintings by select contemporary artists who live or work in the area or are inspired by its natural beauty. Sculpture and works on paper also are exhibited. Beginners and seasoned collectors alike will find an aesthetically enriching experience in a Gallery that one reviewer said specializes in "paintings that sing".
Parking for patrons is available in front of the Gallery. For information, contact Jack Wood, (413) 528-2690.


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Grants and Research Funding Committee (GRFC)
Yearly Report
This past fiscal year 2011 the GRFC committee had a budget of $60,000. We had a carryover from fiscal year 2010 of $29,642. For fall of 2010 we funded six research projects totaling $25,773. In the spring of 2011 we funded nine research projects totaling $46,419. For summer of 2011 we funded four research projects for a total of $11,214. We also funded 4 publication charges totaling $1,267. We have $15,017 remaining in our budget to be carried over to the next fiscal year.
Tony Faber
GRFC Chair


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Earth to Echo Movie Screening and Brian Astro Bradley as "Tuck" #EarthToEcho
Tonight I attended a special screening of the Relativity Studios film EARTH TO ECHO and was amazed by the movie. While I can't give out a full review of the movie, I'm excited to share my first thoughts along with the latest movie news.
Note: I was invited as media to this event. No other compensation was received. Any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.
The past few days I've received little fun packages connected to the movie, which are leading up to the film releases in theaters on July 2, 2014
My latest package included glow in the dark stickers, a pen projector with movie stills and some info about a poster contest. Simply visit www.echopostercontest.com to vote, watch the trailer and enter your school for the chance to win. The school that has the most votes will win the $100,000 prize, winner will be announced on June 2nd.
So now lets talk a bit about the movie and what impressed me during the screening. The storyline! A group of young friends who's lives are about to change decide to go on a simple adventure. But this adventure is anything but simple and ends up with the most amazing discovery!
How the kids deal with this discovery and the following events will touch your heart. The acting is a nice blend of humor, kid mischief and government cover ups.
Movie Synopsis:
In Relativity's PG summer family adventure movie, Tuck, Munch and Alex are a trio of inseparable friends whose lives are about to change. Their neighborhood is being destroyed by a highway construction project that is forcing their families to move away. But just two days before they must part ways, the boys begin receiving a strange series of signals on their phones. Convinced something bigger is going on, they team up with another school friend, Emma, and set out to look for the source of their phone signals.
What they discover is something beyond their wildest imaginations: a small alien who has become stranded on Earth. In need of their help, the four friends come together to protect the alien and help him find his way home. This journey, full of wonder and adventure, is their story, and their secret.
EARTH TO ECHO is a PG action adventure movie opening in theaters nationwide on July 2, 2014
The young cast of the film features Teo Halm, Brian "Astro" Bradley, Reese Hartwig and Ella Linnea Wahlestedt. While all the cast member's did an amazing job, I was really excited to watch Brian Bradley (Tuck), who not only sets the friends off on this adventure but is also a vlogger!
Ironically Brian Bradley is not new to being in front the camera, he made his debut on FOX's X Factor as a young teenager singing his original song "Stop Looking at My Momz" about his single mother.
But it's not Brian's singing that stands out in this movie, it's his adventures spirit and love for his friends. Check out the latest EARTH TO ECHO to see Brian as Tuck.
Photo credit: Thaddaeus McAdams / ExclusiveAccess.Net
In Atlanta at Regal Station Cinemas, Ramona Debraux from V-103 and producer Andrew Panay hosted a EARTH TO ECHO screening to introduce film to attendees. Brian "Astro" Bradley, Yung Joc (Rapper and Love and Hip Hop Atlanta cast member), Headkrack of The Rickey Smiley Show, Taj Rap Princess, and Roberta Shields mother of rapper Ludacris and Executive Director of the Ludacris Foundation were all in attendance.
As you can see EARTH TO ECHO will be a great movie for both children and their families.
Learn more about EARTH TO ECHO, visit - www.callhimecho.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/EarthToEcho
Twitter: www.twitter.com/earthtoecho