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Friday Fragments are bits and pieces of your week that are usually brief; too short for a stand-alone post, but too good to discard. Collect humorous observations, "Heard" items, and other small gems and put them together in a Friday Fragments post.
Friday Fragments are the brainchild of Mrs.4444 and you can find more at Half Past Kissin' Time.
~ Are you aware of Sarah Palin's Alaska? It's some ridiculous reality show that follows her around in Alaska with her family and blah blah blah. No, I'm not watching it because I'd rather stick a fork in my eye. But then I heard that Kate Gosselin and her kids went to Alaska to go camping with Sarah Palin. You guys. WHY? Why is that happening? Do you know what that is? Some tier of hell. HELL.
~ We've taken a bit of a hit at the start of the new year. I'm sure I could write a whole post about it, but right now I'll just say that it's only January 5 and Justin's car is on it's last legs (they told us it's not worth it to fix) and our electric bill for Nov/Dec was over $900. Happy New Year to us...
~ Anyone else watching Top Chef All Stars? I didn't write a recap this week, but my favorite moments? Tom's awesome Quickfire Challenge - can you even imagine how much time we'd all save if we could make dinner every night in 8 minutes 37 seconds? Awesome! Angelo talking about his pet turtle that he takes on walks on a little leash? Hilarious. But I was really sad that Casey got sent home. I really can't believe Jamie is still there, I'm sick of her. And next week's preview did not show her improving.
~ I'm writing this on Thursday because tomorrow morning at 8 something, Sam, Danny and I will be on a plane headed for the east coast! I am a bit nervous about flying by myself with two kids, but I think it will work out. Sam and Danny are both sick with coughs, but I'm hoping that it won't make big problems for their ears. If might actually be helpful to me if Sam has less energy than normal tomorrow. I am also really happy to have Sam's new Leapster Explorer because I think it's going to be awesome for the plane. We're staying at my Dad's in Lanham, MD on Fri and Sat, then we'll head up to New Jersey to see my stepmom and little sister and other family.
~ I've been listening to audiobooks again lately while I drive around in the car doing my business. I'm in the middle of "Room" by Emma Donoghue right now and... wow. This book is so original, told from the perspective of a 5 year old. It's simultaneously exciting, mundane, extraordinary, heartwrenching... it may be a new favorite.
~ Wish I could think of more to say, but I am brain dead. I've been a little stressed this week trying to pack super light yet not forget anything and with 2 sick kids. I am going to head off to bed. Hope everyone has a great weekend!
January 6, 2010
Friday Fragments
2 comments:
- Kristin_The_Goat said...
Hope you have a stress-free travel day. I've never traveled with kids (except when I was one!) but I have traveled with my husband. lol
I made an audible gasp when Casey's name was announced. Truly sad. Richard was right on when he said that Jaime hadn't cooked anything yet and still she remains. ugh.
I hope you are having a safe trip! I really hope the kids feel better and you do not get what they have.
You will be going right by me..in Phila.
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This is the express photo montage I did for the wedding couple on Sunday. I knew Fynn during Iris' wedding in Oct 2006. She and I stayed over at Iris' JB home to receive the groom the next day, so we had a memorable time. I was glad she asked specifically for my services after so many years.
The best men is totally sporting during the sabo. One of the bridesmaids even commented that when the same trick was used on previous weddings, the best men refused to do the tasks. Kevin's best men are simply the best: they did every task without a wince.

subset: commoncrawl


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Dr Karen Abbey
- Director of Nutrition & Catering Consultancy Pty Ltd (NACC)
- Foodservice Specialist Dietician APD PhD
- 21 years national and international experience in foodservices
This includes aged care foodservices, community meal delivery services, Meals on Wheels and residential aged care settings. National trainers.
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Nutrition and Catering Global Hub (subscribe from the sidebar on the right)
For all rates and to discuss your requirements please contact Karen on 0417 608 206 or use the form below.


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Google is going after a core part of Microsoft's cloud business, aiming to expand Google Cloud Platform's appeal to big companies that run the classic combination of Microsoft's Windows Server and SQL Server.
Google Cloud Platform today announced pre-configured images for Microsoft SQL Server Enterprise and Windows Server Core on Google Compute Engine. The rollout includes support for high-availability, disaster-recovery and remote-management features used by big companies.
"GCP's expanded support for SQL Server images and high availability are our latest efforts to improve Windows support on Compute Engine, and to build a cloud environment for enterprise Windows that leads the industry," said Amruta Gulanikar, Google cloud platform product manager, in a post announcing the new features.
It's the latest move by Google Cloud Platform to catch up to Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Services. The search giant's cloud initiatives are led by Google senior vice president Diane Greene, co-founder and former CEO of VMware, who joined Google as an executive in late 2015 to bolster its efforts to win over big businesses. Greene is also a board member of Google's parent company Alphabet.
Google doesn't break out its cloud results in its quarterly financial reports, but its cloud business "is on a terrific upswing," Google CEO Sundar Pichai told analysts and investors on the company's conference call last week.
"In 2016, we made huge strides building out our product offerings across all areas of Google Cloud Platform or GCP," Pichai said. "We routinely hear from customers that we have now moved well beyond table stakes, and we have truly differentiated offerings in four key areas: data analytics and machine learning, security and privacy, tools for application development, and the ability to create connected business platforms, leveraging our recent acquisition of Apigee."
Google acquired the API technology company Apigee for $625 million last year.
Pichai added, "Our product advancements across all of GCP, in addition to our increased focus on how we work with the enterprise customers, have enabled us to accelerate growth with new Fortune 2000 customers while also inspiring our current customers to substantially expand their use of GCP."
Enterprise customers have emerged as a key competitive battleground among the major cloud providers, but they are traditionally Microsoft's bread-and-butter. Many SQL Server installations still run on corporate servers, not in the cloud, which translates into a big opportunity to capture that database business as it moves to the cloud.
Microsoft gets to play both sides of the fence, because it also receives licensing fees for versions of Windows and SQL Server running in its rivals' clouds. But the Redmond company is increasingly relying on its own cloud revenue. Microsoft's commercial cloud run rate — a projection of the annual revenue from products including Office 365 and Azure — topped $14 billion in the company's latest quarterly results, a new record.
Google generally trails Microsoft Azure and public cloud leader Amazon Web Services in market share.
AWS also supports running Windows Server, SQL Server and other Microsoft technologies in the cloud, so Google's Windows enterprise ambitions are a swipe at Amazon's cloud business, too.
Amazon reports earnings, including AWS results, on Thursday after the market closes. Amazon Web Services was responsible for making the tech giant profitable in the most recent quarter, in a sign of just how important the cloud market has become.


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If you haven't seen Man Of Steel yet, you may want to stop reading right about here. Man of Steel is giving a lot of people to talk about past the obvious argument of whether or not it was good. While critics seem to be split on that, the film's director Zack Snyder (Sucker Punch) was confident with his direction all the way through. So much that he decided to break a significant rule in the DC Comics world, and that is, Superman never kills.
This Man Of Steel has been described as not your mom and dad's Superman, and the reason being is that he's simply not the same Superman. He's a good one, but he's not a call back to any of the other versions. One significant moment that alludes to this is when Superman kills General Zod.
A few people weren't on board with this ending, as it seems to be the go-to flaw that everyone points out in the script. One big player in the film's production also didn't agree with the ending, and that was Christopher Nolan (The Dark Knight Trilogy). Nolan, who seems to really have the midas touch in the superhuman world did not initially agree with the Man of Steel killing General Zod. In a recent podcast Snyder admitted that he had to convince producer Nolan that this was the ending meant to be seen on screen.
Surprisingly it was a push by DC Comics that spurred on the vision to make it the big screen. Snyder and screenwriter David S. Goyer elaborated on the hard decision: "[Chris] originally said, 'There's no way you can do this. I came up with this idea of heat vision and these people about to die, and I wrote the scene, gave it to Chris, and he said, 'Okay you've convinced me.' "
Although in the end Christopher Nolan came around, someone else from the Superman world didn't see eye to eye with Snyder's vision. Comics writer Mark Waid (Superman: Birthright) was absolutely enraged by the Man of Steel surprise. In his own review, Waid wrote:
"Some crazy guy in front of us was muttering 'Don't do it…don't do it…DON'T DO IT…' and then Superman snapped Zod's neck and that guy stood up and said in a very loud voice, 'THAT'S IT, YOU LOST ME, I'M OUT,' and his girlfriend had to literally pull him back into his seat and keep him from walking out and that crazy guy was me."
What are your thoughts on the new Superman twist?


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- Description
DetailsPerfect for holding spools of bobbin thread when you are fly tying is the Veniard Spigot Bobbin Holder. This highly useful holder features a full length tube for feeding through your thread and is easy to work with.
The spigot bobbin holder is used by placing your chosen bobbin thread spool in between the two feet to gently clamp the spool. The feet have a good amount of tension between them to help fully secure your spool in place for use. Once your spool is locked in between the feet, you can then feed the thread through the tube, ready for you to tie your fly.
The tube includes flared ends to prevent the thread from fraying or cutting when you are using it. During use, the spool will gently rotate in between the feet and provide you with the thread you need.
The Veniard Spigot Bobbin Holder is incredibly handy and is an essential tool for fly tying. This bobbin holder is approximately 4.5 inches in length and is silver in colour.
4.5 inches long
Full length tube
Tension between feet
Handy tool for using bobbin thread
Can be used for any fly patterns using bobbin thread
- Size Charts
- Specifications
Additional Information
Gender No Brand Veniard Product Code 00000SBH-000-Z Barcode 5056304627011 Stock Location L076 Pack Size No Size No Colour No
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7 Forms Of Unpaid Labor Women Are Expected To Do On A Daily Basis
One of the ways women are routinely devalued in our society is by being expected to perform unpaid labor — work that, whether or not it's traditionally defined as "work," requires time and energy, yet yields no monetary compensation. While we often talk about how women make less money for the same work, we don't always recognize that when we use a less narrow, stereotypically masculine definition of "work," women are actually doing a lot of work that pays nothing. If we really want economic equality, we need to start compensating the unpaid labor women do, stop making them do it, or at least expect men to do the same amount of it.
Why unpaid labor a problem, though? Well, because not compensating people for their labor sends the message that their labor is worthless, and because it puts women at an economic disadvantage. Which, by the way, they're already at, since women make about 80 percent of what men do at best (for women of color, the figure is even lower) and pay higher prices for the same products.
To illustrate, here are some everyday ways women are expected to perform free labor that we may not even think about. If you've been asking this kind of labor of women, challenge yourself to demand less of it and take on more of it yourself.
1. Chores
Many of us grew up in "traditional" households where our moms handled the majority of the housework, and as a consequence of this gender role, we may as adults end up expecting the women in our lives to do the same. One Unicef report found that even as children, girls spend 40 percent more time than boys doing chores.
2. Childcare
The great majority of the work involved in childcare still falls on women, even when they're also working outside the home, according to Working Mother Research Institute survey. This is largely due to stereotypes that women are naturally more nurturing, which also can deprive men of the chance to find fulfillment as parents.
3. Elder Care
The expectation that women care for others doesn't end after the kids leave the house. A study presented at the 2014 annual meeting of the American Sociological Association found that daughters spend twice as much time caring for parents as sons.
4. Providing Emotional Support
Of course, we should all support our friends when they're having problems. But a problem occurs when women are disproportionately expected to provide this support, especially when it's requested in ways that infringe on their boundaries.
5. Explaining Social Justice
The burden to explain feminism and other social justice issues often falls on women, people of color, and other marginalized groups. While this makes a certain amount of sense because these people have personal experience with these issues, privileged people should do whatever research they can themselves, keeping in mind that the person they're talking to probably receives the same questions over and over again.
6. Relationship Upkeep
In relationships between men and women, the women are often the ones who end up initiating serious discussions about the relationship and talking about problems the couple's having. This work is crucial and shouldn't be left to one person.
7. Dealing With Misogyny
It takes a lot out of you to constantly worry about your safety on the street, gracefully brush off sexist remarks in the workplace (or call them out in a way that won't get you fired), and either cater to beauty ideals or defy them and risk disapproval. In this way, women are constantly doing unpaid labor, and it can affect their ability to all forms of labor every day.


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About Meals on Wheels
Our Mission…
Nourishing bodies and spirits with balanced meals and friendship.
Who we are…
Meals on Wheels of Albuquerque is a private 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation founded in 1972 by a group of women from Presbyterian Churches around Albuquerque. We began with 20 clients and 40 volunteers. Today we serve approximately 500 clients and have over 400 volunteers. We delivered 9,400 meals in 1972. Today we are delivering over 140,000 meals a year. Meals on Wheels of Albuquerque provides nutritious meals and crucial social contact each day. Not only do we provide friendship and compassion but we also check the well being of those we serve.
What we do…
Meals on Wheels of Albuquerque is the only home delivered meal program in our area preparing special diets. We prepare these special diets for a variety of needs, including diabetes, renal failure, heart issues, chewing and swallowing problems, etc.
Through grants, donations, and the support of the community, we started the Low Income Food & Enrichment Program (L.I.F.E.). This program is for those meeting the federal government's defined poverty level and who require a special diet due to health issues.
Our program is currently the only one of its kind in the Albuquerque metro area. We provide our services to anyone of any age. There are no restrictions for age or disability. We currently have clients in their 20's to our oldest client who just celebrated her 109th birthday. We can provide meals for any duration whether they are needed during a period of recuperation or for many years.
We are dedicated to open and honest reporting:
Thank you to Presbyterian Healthcare for their generous support of our programs:
Meals on Wheels of Albuquerque functions as an on-going collaboration between our Staff, Board of Directors, and a team of 400 volunteers.
Board Members
Our Board of Directors is comprised of dedicated community members who work to grow Meals on Wheels of Albuquerque's influence in the community. If you are interested in joining our board, please contact us.
Michael Armijo, Corporate Banking, BBVA Compass
Jessica Barrett, Client Services Site Leader, Bank of America
Van Billops, Tax Senior Manager, REDW
Jeff Cangialosi, VP of Informatics, Molina Healthcare
S. Scott Davis, Estate Attorney, S. Scott Davis Law Firm
Judie Jones, Community Relations Advisor, A Place for Mom
Idalia Lechuga-Tena, Former State Representative
Frederica Sawyer, Quality Assurance Manager/ Team Lead, Home Instead
Elizabeth Skerry, Skorpios Technologies
Cecillia Rivas, CFO, United Way of Central New Mexico
Sarah Whitehurst, Controller, Dion's Pizza
Executive Committee
Cecillia Rivas, President
S. Scott Davis, Vice President
Sarah Whitehurst, Treasurer
Jeffrey Cangialosi, Secretary
Management Team
Shauna Frost – Executive Director
Tanja Jenkins – Program Director
Robin Falconer – Food Services Director
Jessica Woodruff – Accounting Manager


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• Title : The Devotion of Suspect X
• Author : Keigo Higashino
• Publisher : Hachette India
• Cost : 499/-
Ishigami is a middle-aged mathematics genius who works as a school teacher. He has a secret crush on Yasuko, his neighbor who is a single mother with an exploitive and abusive husband whom she avoids at all costs. When Yasuko lands in trouble, Ishigami steps in to help her out, using his simple mathematical mind to calculate his moves and those of the police. How he goes about the entire set-up forms the core of this story.
Also playing an integral part are Yukawa, Ishigami's ex-classmate and a physics genius, the only man who can come close to deciphering Ishigami's plan though he cannot will himself to hand over his friend to the police. The narration crackles with intensity whenever these two characters meet.
But the story is more about "Devotion".
How aptly has this book been named. Surprisingly, what we see in the book isn't an act of just devotion, but of pure, unadulterated , selfless love. A love so deep that it cannot be named. And when the suspect screams out in the end, we feel his frustration. Feel his love.
I never had a chance to read up on Japan or Japanese culture before, save that one book called "The Rising sun" by Michael Crichton and the Oshin series that played on DD a long time back. Where one was indicative of Japanese culture as perceived in Western settings, the other harked back to the Japan of yore.
Reading the "Devotion Of Suspect X", I realized that Keigo Higashino has presented Japan in a manner that makes it very simple for us to understand the characters and the reasons behind their behavior. If not for the small details like sliding doors or lunch boxes, the story could have been set anywhere in the world. Some locations, like the slum dwellings under the bridge on a river can be found anywhere.
And that is what is special about this book. We can relate to the story because it could have taken place right in our neighborhood. Yasuko could be that single mother who lives across the road and Ishigami would be the school teacher we see with unseeing eyes.
It is very difficult to review this book without giving out any spoilers. I'll try though.
The characters are very well etched. We get a definite look into what goes on in their minds but thankfully, none of the characters get into preachy monologues on the human psyche a la Agatha Christie or Ayn Rand (for the record, I LOVE these two women. No objections to the monologues in their books 😐 )
The author delves into the inner fears of the suspects, never once letting go of reality. So when Yakuso, the main suspect wonders where her love-life will lead her, she also wonders how her daughter will cope up with the new developments. Or if she will. When she has the attention of two men, she cannot decide between the one for whom she feels an inkling of love and the other for whom she feels the deepest gratitude. Who will win?
I make it sound like a love story but the book is actually a very gripping murder mystery. It isn't as much of a whodunnit than it is a howdunnit or a whydunnit!!
The book reminded me of Agatha Christie's "Curtain", Poirot's last case . There, Poirot himself commits a murder which comes out much after his death. In TDOSX a similar genius takes it upon himself to act as an accomplice to murder and lay the path that the police would follow later. He leads them on in a manner which is truly mind-boggling, until another genius figures out the motive and the plan. The mind-games that follow is what forms the chunk of the narration. There aren't many twists and turns, but enough intrigue to keep you glued to the book.
I have just one gripe with the story. The police were depicted as hardworking men who did their best to pin the crime on the primary suspects. But not much coverage was given to their attempts to broaden their investigation. We are given no inkling as to whether the police have found any other possible suspects, except the ones who are the central characters. The subsequent investigations appear very one-sided and forced. Or maybe, as the end clarifies, that is exactly what Ishigami had predicted and planned. Whatever the case, while reading the book, I couldn't help but wonder about the level of harassment the Police officers inflicted in the name of investigations . Also, there was content that appeared to have been 'lost in translation'. I'm sure the Japanese version would have been even more gripping. Technically, the English version was up to the mark. No complaints there.
On another tangent, it was kind of awe-inspiring to see the way a common person reacts to the police force in Japan. No derogatory comments, no pulling down of the 'system'. In fact, one instance that stood out for me was when one character beats up another man, the culprit's wife makes him visit the victim and apologize. Knowing fully well that one report from the victim could land him in the banger, the character meekly follows his wife and offers his apology. The crux is that the common man respects the police force.
Wow!! I can never think of that happening here
Do grab a copy of "The Devotion Of Suspect X". It is truly a captivating read!! Now that I have, looking forward to watching the movie.
Sign up for the Book Review Program for Indian Bloggers. and get free books! Participate now!


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Whidborne, J. F, Istepanian, R. S. H. and Wu, Jun (2001) Reduction of controller fragility by pole sensitivity minimization. IEEE Transactions on Automatic Control, 46(2), 320 - 325. ISSN (print) 0018-9286Full text not available from this archive.
Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1109/9.905702
|Item Type:
|Additional Information:
|This work was supported by the National Science Foundation of China [grant number 69504010] and the Cao Guangbiao Foundation of Zhejiang University.
|Research Area:
|Computer science and informatics
|Faculty, School or Research Centre:
|Faculty of Computing, Information Systems and Mathematics (until 2011)
Faculty of Computing, Information Systems and Mathematics (until 2011) > Mobile Information and Network Technology (MINT) Research Centre
|Depositing User:
|Automatic Import Agent
|Date Deposited:
|26 Jan 2010 12:03
|Last Modified:
|14 Oct 2010 08:53
Actions (Repository Editors)
|Item Control Page


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Hurricane Katrina whipped up huge, powerful waves that caused severe destruction in 2005 along the U.S. Gulf Coast. Their size and strength convinced Phil Kithil of Santa Fe, New Mexico, there had to be a way to harness that energy. His first thought was a device that would use wave action to pump deep, cold seawater to the surface to dampen the intensity of hurricanes, which thrive on warm water.
He proved the concept with a simple tube and one-way valve attached to a buoy, but the idea had no commercial potential as hurricanes are unpredictable. He thought of a second use because the wave-action pump also brought to the surface concentrated ocean nutrients such as phosphate and silicate that promote the growth of phytoplankton.
"Phytoplankton take in carbon dioxide to metabolise nutrients and give off oxygen," Kithil said. "We felt the pumps had a role to play in climate change mitigation."
But, again, the business potential evaporated when governments participating in the 2009 United Nations Copenhagen Climate conference did not take action that would open carbon markets for the device.
The third idea was the charm. Kithil and his company, Atmocean Inc., founded in 2006, partnered with the Albuquerque engineering firm Reytek Corp. in 2010 to produce a pump system that uses wave power to send pressurised seawater onto shore where it is desalinated without the use of external energy. Kithil said the system has a simple design and can be set up cheaply and in rural settings to provide fresh water for drinking and farming in coastal cities.
Working with scientists at Sandia National Laboratories through the New Mexico Small Business Assistance program, the two companies have tested and advanced the technology and moved it close to market by attracting significant investment. Atmocean recently signed a fourth NMSBA agreement. Small businesses can apply for help through the program once a year.
"We wouldn't be where we are today without Sandia's help," said Chris White, Atmocean's chief operating officer. "It provided us with the backbone of validating our technical improvements so we could go forward."
Atmocean is working now with Sandia Labs engineer Tim Koehler on computational modeling of the wave energy system. Following trials in a test tank at the Texas A&M University Haynes Laboratory, the system will be deployed later in the year off the coast of Newfoundland for a third round of testing that will demonstrate the prototype in an operational environment.
Atmocean's system is a 200-foot by 200-foot array of pumps floating on the ocean. "Each pump is a buoy on a piston," Koehler said. "As a wave passes, the buoy ingests sea water, and as the buoy settles, it pumps seawater through hydraulic lines back to shore where it enters the zero-electricity desalination process."
Water arrives onshore at about 180 psi, or pounds per square inch of pressure. Atmocean uses energy recovery devices—essentially spinning mechanical wheels—to boost 14 % of the arriving seawater to 900 psi, the pressure needed to run reverse osmosis.
The system is the size of a shipping container and is manufactured by Atmocean industry partners. "We supply the pressurised seawater and we work with standard industry-proven technologies on the desalination," White said.
The system runs 24/7 and production depends on wave action. White said that in southern Peru, in typical ocean conditions, 50 million cubic feet of pressurised water is pushed to shore in a year. Fourteen % of that is desalinated, producing 5 million cubic feet of fresh water annually that can be used for agriculture or consumption.
Kithil said the system is inexpensive to operate, offers local employment and helps the environment. "Each array of pumps creates a defacto marine protected area with artificial structures that see marine growth," he said.
"The system uses small boats operated by local fishermen who get consistent work. During our full-scale pilots in Peru in 2015, we saw a huge outpouring of support from the local fishing community."
Kithil and Fullam are working with Koehler to improve the pump design. "They want to know what forces the ocean, through the passage of waves, puts on the buoys, so they can optimise their performance and be as efficient as possible," Koehler said.
He is using computational fluid dynamics modeling to evaluate various buoy designs engineered by Reytek and narrowed down through wave pool tests. "I will give them an idea of ocean forces on various pump designs," he said.
Koehler's first foray into NMSBA has been eye-opening, he said. "It's a different application than what I typically work on and uses different software, so it adds some breadth to my experience," he says.
"It's been a good process in terms of my personal and professional growth. I'm learning more, and it's nice to help a small business. I like the idea. It's a good way to help rural communities with clean energy technology."
After the final demonstration in Newfoundland, Atmocean, which presented the technology at the 2016 United Nations Solutions Summit, will seek a commercial partner. "If all goes well, we're looking at a year-and-a-half after the tests to reach commercialisation," White said.
Fullam said NMSBA provided needed resources and experience to the company. "The computer modeling tools are something a small company could never afford. We've been able to use those resources to answer some rather esoteric questions and generate more questions".
"The people we've dealt with really know what they are doing, and we were able to pinpoint early in the development some key technical issues we wouldn't have seen. We would have spent a lot of time spinning our wheels. It cut years off the development cycle."
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It has been a very long time since I have shared with my readers, but today I came across something, sent by a very dear and long time friend, with whom I disagree on about almost everything but one, that I feel bares sharing with you because it is important and will likely get pushed out of our minds and hearts during this busy and tumultuous season. Since we are celebrating during the month of December, I would like to put forward something most serious to consider. It's about the Cross.
During the recent election, and for the past 8 years for sure, we have become so undeniably divided. By race, color, creed, belief system, by financial status, fashion, age, IQ, disability (imagined or actual), political persuasion and the list goes on. This is not only unhealthy, it is very unwise. We are all human beings with a tremendous amount of creative power to do good and righteous things at our disposal, hampered only because we have neglected our spiritual side and are not connected to the right stimulus or resource.
There has been a lot of discussion of late about being politically correct. But I for one find political correctness to be a way of somebody other than God (hint, hint), to destroy our creativity, moral codes, values and intelligence, which ultimately make us losers on the playing field of life. "Say what you mean, mean what you say" is a phrase that springs to mind as a way to move forward. And, if straight talk offends you, may I suggest living a life of forgiveness instead of being offended. "Let it go, let it go" ….
With that in mind, may I just say that personally, my faith is in Jesus, the Son of God, and there is no other God but Him. Other religions, other than true Christianity, are just that… religions — man's attempts to get to God. In contrast, He provided the way to enter into His presence, the only way, thru the shed blood of His Son on the Cross at Calvary. Basically, He reached down to lift us up. It's pretty obvious we are not capable of being united enough to figure out how to get to God so He did it for us. In His Perfect love for us He gave us a choice, a free will, and if we choose not to accept His way, then … well, then ultimately we must accept the consequences for our choices.
But I digress. Please take a moment to listen to this song. It really says it all during this Christmas Season. We must look past our hatred, bigotry, name calling, divisiveness, and malice because this life of ours, if we want to live in peace and tranquility, is really all about the Cross.


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Roy Keane in warning to new champions
Roy Keane has warned Manchester City to write off Sir Alex Ferguson at their peril.
Keane said City were worthy champions but to expect Manchester United to bounce back even stronger - and that his old United boss Ferguson will still be around for years to come.
"Never write off United. Never doubt United," said Keane.
"United always bounce back. It's in the nature of the club. They will probably buy one or two players, which they probably would have done even if they had won the league, and it's exciting for the people of Manchester.
"Sunday was a hard one for them to take, but I think United fans will actually enjoy that challenge because the games are closer."
Ferguson may have turned 70 but Keane believes the challenge of taking on City will inspire his old manager to new achievements - and that he has seen off all other challengers in the past.
Keane added: "When you are a manager in sport at the top level, the challenges will drive you on to another level and United have always responded.
"Going back over donkey's years when Blackburn had a decent spell, Arsenal, look at them they haven't won anything for seven years now, Chelsea, they are coming back a little bit now. Liverpool, look where they are now. United will enjoy that challenge. And you can see that in his eyes.
"People have written him off a few years ago when Chelsea won the league a couple of years running, saying he was finished, but he is still going strong.
"He will want to go out on a winning note but just listening to him and watching him he will go on for a few years yet. If they win the league next year, or the Champions League, I think he will carry on."
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Betrayal. Revenge. Conspiracy. Murdering your way up the ladder of power. People usually associate these plot elements with Shakespeare's tragedies, but I see them operate most strongly in his histories. That's one reason why those tend to be my favorite of his works.
Besides just being The Sopranos on an Elizabethan stage, the language here is where Shakespeare gets the most deliciously vicious.
Consider some of the lesser history plays. Even there, the dialogue tends to be enough to make one's blood boil.
Henry VI, Part II takes us into the War of the Roses, which was also the historical basis for Game of Thrones, so you know this'll be full of politically venomous mayhem:
And even now my burthen'd heart would break,
Should I not curse them. Poison be their drink!
Gall, worse than gall, the daintiest that they taste!
Their sweetest shade a grove of cypress trees!
Their chiefest prospect murdering basilisks!
Their softest touch as smart as lizards' sting!
Their music frightful as the serpent's hiss,
And boding screech-owls make the concert full!
All the foul terrors in dark-seated hell— (III.2.320-328)
And this one has my favorite lines of all in Shakespeare's early plays:
Upon thy eye-balls murderous tyranny
Sits in grim majesty, to fright the world. (III.2.49-50)
Henry VI, Part III has some humdingers, too:
Had thy brethren here, their lives and thine
Were not revenge sufficient for me;
No, if I digg'd up thy forefathers' graves
And hung their rotten coffins up in chains,
It could not slake mine ire, nor ease my heart.
The sight of any of the house of York
Is as a fury to torment my soul;
And till I root out their accursed line
And leave not one alive, I live in hell. (I.3.25-33)
Woah there, buddy! Chill! But, alas, chilling was not to be:
I had rather chop this hand off at a blow,
And with the other fling it at thy face,
Than bear so low a sail, to strike to thee. (V.1.50-52)
Instead of shaking hands, you'd rather chop off your hand and use the other one to throw it at him? Dude, tell us how you really feel.
And in the masterpiece Richard III, we learn that Queen Margaret didn't like Richard:
Stay, dog, for thou shalt hear me.
If heaven have any grievous plague in store
Exceeding those that I can wish upon thee,
O, let them keep it till thy sins be ripe,
And then hurl down their indignation
On thee, the troubler of the poor world's peace!
The worm of conscience still begnaw thy soul!
Thy friends suspect for traitors while thou livest,
And take deep traitors for thy dearest friends!
No sleep close up that deadly eye of thine,
Unless it be whilst some tormenting dream
Affrights thee with a hell of ugly devils!
Thou elvish-mark'd, abortive, rooting hog!
Thou that wast seal'd in thy nativity
The slave of nature and the son of hell!
Thou slander of thy mother's heavy womb!
Thou loathed issue of thy father's loins!
Thou rag of honour! thou detested— (I.3.226-244)
No, I mean, she really didn't like Richard (here complaining about him to his mother):
Thou hadst a Clarence too, and Richard kill'd him.
From forth the kennel of thy womb hath crept
A hell-hound that doth hunt us all to death:
That dog, that had his teeth before his eyes,
To worry lambs and lap their gentle blood,
That foul defacer of God's handiwork,
That excellent grand tyrant of the earth,
That reigns in galled eyes of weeping souls,
Thy womb let loose, to chase us to our graves. (IV.4.49-56)
No gritty Hollywood crime drama can compete with this stuff!


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AhPek Biker - Riding Adventures
Cycling Singapore 2015
Large Group Ride - Around Singapore City.
A call has been issued, the trumpet has sounded!
The Brompton Riders of Singapore (BR@SG) is having their 3rd Annual Brompton Day in Singapore. It's a day for Brompton owners to gather in comradeship, to ride together and to exchange notes on the uniting factor - the Brompton Bicycle.
We Malaysians responded to the call, eager to meet up and ride with Brompton owners from other countries. By coach, train and flight we made our way down to this gala event, where more than thirty of us represented our country in an unofficial way and we do hoped that we had done it well. We went down a day earlier and came back the day after.
Below are the blogs of our trip down there; with pre-rides and post-rides:
You may also like :
If you like this, view my other blogs at Jotaro's Blog
(comments most welcomed below. if you like this pls share via facebook or twitter)


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John the Baptist is our Advent focus this year. John prepared the people for Jesus' coming. And he can also prepare us as we get ready to celebrate the coming of Jesus at Christmas and also as we await the second coming of Jesus; his second advent, which could happen at any time.
Last week we saw how he prepares us through his message of repentance. We are to set aside our sin and our excuses for our sin, and commit to do God's will in all of our lives. And then, just as the people did in John the Baptist's day, we can come and confess our sins and find forgiveness.
Today we focus on how John's example of humility prepares us. But first, a bit more on the person of John the Baptist. We looked at some things last week, but today we take note of –
John's exalted status
John was chosen by God and given a special role in God's scheme of things; God's plan for this world. And not only this, he is spoken of very highly in Scripture. Let's look at this.
1. His birth was announced by an angel in the Temple – Luke 1:13. Not many people can claim this.
2. He received the Spirit 'in utero.' The angel said, "He will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother's womb" – Luke 1:15.
3. His birth was special. When people heard about the circumstances of his birth, about his mother being older and not able to have children and his father not being able to speak and then speaking to name him John, when they heard all this, they said, "'What then will this child be?' For the hand of the Lord was with him." – Luke 1:65-66.
4. It is the testimony of Scripture that "He was a righteous and holy man" – Mark 6:20.
5. He baptized Jesus – Matthew 3:13-17. An amazing privilege.
6. He was the first to confess Jesus' identity. He said, "I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God" – John 1:34.
7. He was immensely popular. "And all the country of Judea and all Jerusalem were going out to him and were being baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins." – Mark 1:5.
8. He was respected by the king. "Herod feared John . . . and he kept him safe. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed, and yet he heard him gladly" – Mark 6:20
9. Jesus said about him, "He was a burning and shining lamp" – John 5:35.
10. Jesus said, "John came to you in the way of righteousness" – Matthew 21:32.
11. His father prophesied great things about him at his birth. "And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, to give knowledge of salvation to his people in the forgiveness of their sins" – Luke 1:76-77.
12. He is the fulfillment of Malachi 3:1. Jesus said, "What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is he of whom it is written, 'Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way before you.'" – Luke 7:26-27.
13. He is the fulfillment of Isaiah 40:3. "For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, 'The voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.'" – Matthew 3:3.
14. He is the fulfillment of Malachi 4:5-6. This speaks of Elijah coming before the day of the Lord. "And the disciples asked Jesus, 'Then why do the scribes say that first Elijah must come?' He answered, 'Elijah does come, and he will restore all things. But I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but did to him whatever they pleased'. . . Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them of John the Baptist." – Matthew 17:10-13. (Also, Matthew 11:14; Luke 1:17)
15. John is the dividing line between old covenant and the new. Jesus said, "The Law and the Prophets were until John; since then the good news of the kingdom of God is preached." – Luke 16:16.
16. John was the greatest of the old covenant. Jesus said, "I tell you, among those born of women none is greater than John" – Luke 7:28. That is, those among the old covenant. Neither Moses, nor David, nor Elijah is greater than John.
It is difficult to find someone in Scripture spoken of more highly, and certainly none in terms of the words of Jesus. What an amazing person! And what an amazing ministry he had!
Now lets' look at –
How John's example prepares us for the coming of Jesus
He presents an example to us of true humility. And given all the accolades, this really stands out.
He saw himself as unworthy in comparison to Jesus. He said, "I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry." – Matthew 3:11. He sees himself as not even worthy to do slave service for Jesus; not worthy to carry his sandals.
He claimed no titles. "He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, 'I am not the Christ.' And they asked him, 'What then? Are you Elijah?' He said, 'I am not.' 'Are you the Prophet?' And he answered, 'No.'" – John 1:20-21. Jesus called him the prophet and Elijah. But he was uncomfortable with these titles. He simply saw himself as the one who prepares the way.
He felt unworthy to baptize Jesus. When Jesus came, Scripture tells us, "John would have prevented him, saying, 'I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?'" – Matthew 3:14.
He willingly let his disciples follow Jesus. "The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples, and he looked at Jesus as he walked by and said, 'Behold, the Lamb of God!' The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus." – John 1:35-37.
John deferred to Jesus' ministry. Someone said to John, "Rabbi, he . . . to whom you bore witness – look, he is baptizing, and all are going to him." – John 3:26. Would he be envious? John answered them, "The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom's voice. Therefore this joy of mine is now complete." – John 3:29. He is simply the friend of the bridegroom. The party is for the groom, not the friend. And he is happy for Jesus.
Finally, and succinctly, John said this about Jesus, "He must increase, but I must decrease." – John 3:30.
What an amazing portrait of humility! He was socially humble, claiming no status. He was economically humble, being poor. He was personally humble, as a virtue in his relations with others. And he was humble before God and submitted to him. Whatever you want God, that's what I want.
And this stands out all the more in contrast to king Herod and the Pharisees and Sadducees, where we see arrogance, pride, self-righteousness, and self-sufficiency.
But notice that John, in his humility, was blessed by Jesus when he came. But all these others, because of their pride, found themselves opposing Jesus and being opposed by Jesus. They lifted themselves up and so they were not ready for the coming of the Lord.
What about you? Where is there pride, arrogance, self-righteousness or self-sufficiency in your life? Do you strive to be recognized, as opposed to lifting Jesus up?
Do you have areas of our life where you think you don't need Jesus? Are there issues where you think you know more than Jesus, and so you don't listen to him or obey him? When he challenges you, do you resist because you are too arrogant to listen or yield?
John teaches us that getting ready for Jesus' advent means getting rid of our pride and learning true humility before God.
Jesus said in Luke 14:11 "everyone who exalts himself will be humbled," that is by God when he comes. But he also said in the same verse, "he who humbles himself will be exalted," that is by God when he comes – just as John was exalted and blessed.
And if we follow John's example, we too can be blessed, when celebrate and worship our Lord this Christmas, and as we await his second coming.
William Higgins


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Earlier this season, (against New Providence) I injured myself and later found out that I have a bone contusion. It was almost impossible for me to walk on it the day after and continued to bother me. After icing and elevating it as much as I could, the swelling went down and it started to feel a lot better. I missed a few games and had to sit out for about a week before I could start running again. I hated sitting out and watching my team warm up and not being a part of it. With counties coming up, I really wanted to get back on the field as soon as possible. I took baby steps and I started off running, and eventually going through a full practice. Now, it is feeling much better, and I am 100% back!
This time of the year is always extremely exciting for our team. We know what our job is; it's to win and advance. The amount of intensity we bring to every single game is incredible.
This year's county tournament was such a great experience. Every year, we look forward to playing under the lights at the ALJ field, and then to the field at Kean University for the finals. This year was no different as we accomplished our goal of winning counties…our 7th straight Union County Title! What a great feeling.
I know that my team is capable reaching all of our goals.


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Finding a job you like can be difficult, especially if you don't have any specialized training. Today, nearly 40 percent of working-age Americans have a college degree. Therefore, it can be difficult for someone without education past high school to stand a chance competing for popular jobs. That's why making the investment in obtaining a welding degree is well worth the time and money.
Requirements & Eligibility
Most schools will require that you have received your high school diploma or GED before you can enroll in their welding program. Furthermore, it's important to possess the basic skills necessary to succeed in welding such as:
- Good eyesight
- A steady hand
- Ability to focus for long periods of time on the task at hand
- Yearning to learn new things and continue education on a daily basis
- Ability to work well both on your own and with others
List of Welding Programs in West Virginia
Get a hands-on education at Lincoln Tech. Designed for today's tough job market, our in-depth programs cover many fields including: Health Sciences, Business and Information Technology, Hospitality, Automotive Technology, HVAC Technology and Electrical Systems Technology. Financial Aid is available for those who qualify. Programs vary by campus.
- Welding Technology
Application Process & Costs
It's easier than ever to apply for the welding college you want. Most schools make their application available for online access. Once downloaded, you simply fill out your general personal information and submit it per the school's instructions. Once the administration staff has had a chance to review your credentials, they contact you to help you finish the process.
Depending on the type of certificate you wish to pursue, the cost can vary. For example, if you wish to attend a college and take extensive courses, the cost can get up to around $14,000. On the other hand, there are other programs that offer certain certifications that are less comprehensive and only around $3,000 to $4,000. Either way, there are financial aid options often available in the event your current status prevents you from paying tuition.
Online Programs
In our busy society, it's certainly understandable that many with the desire to go through accredited welding training simply aren't able to find the time to attend traditional classes. Today, there are a variety of options available online, allowing you to study when it's convenient for you. Just some of the courses offered include:
- Nondestructive Evaluation
- Welding Symbols
- Introductory Welding Materials
- Welding Blueprint Reading
- Welding Structure Fitness
- Welding Metallurgy
Maintaining Certification/License & Renewal
In certain professions in the industry, there will be the need to renew your license to continue practicing. For example, certified welding inspectors are required to renew their certificate every three years through written testing and skill demonstrations in real-life scenarios.
Nearby States
Salary & Job Prospects
The great news is that job prospects for new welders is highly optimistic into the foreseeable future. Over the course of the next ten years, there is expected to be a growth of around six percent in the demand for skilled welders, solderers, cutters, and brazers. Salaries vary, but experienced welders can make anywhere from $50,000 to $75,000. The current median salary is around $36,000.
Preparing You For Success
During your time in welding school, you'll be taught what you need to know to enter the workforce, and the jobs are out there just waiting for you to apply. If you possess skills including focus, good hand/eye coordination, and the keen attention to detail, this is a chance for you to put those qualities to good work. Rather than simply applying for another job, you can begin embarking on a rewarding career that will provide you with the income and satisfaction you deserve.
More Welding Schools Guide in West Virginia
|Mercer County Technical Education Center
|(304) 425-9551
|1397 Stafford Dr, Princeton, WV 24740
|West Virginia University at Parkersburg
|(304) 424-8000
|300 Campus Dr, Parkersburg, WV 26104
|Fred W Eberle Technical Center
|(304) 472-1259
|1st St, Buckhannon, WV 26201
|Ben Franklin Career Center
|(304) 766-0369
|500 28th St, Charleston, WV 25304
|Academy of Careers and Technology
|(304) 256-4615
|390 Stanaford Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
|Putnam Career and Technical Center
|(304) 586-3494
|300 Roosevelt Blvd, Eleanor, WV 25070
|New River Community and Technical College
|(304) 929-6736
|280 University Dr, Beaver, WV 25813
|Bridgevalley Community and Technical College
|(304) 734-6601
|2001 Union Carbide Drive South Charleston, WV 25303
|Cabell County Career Technology Center
|(304) 528-5106
|1035 Norway Ave, Huntington, WV 25705
|Ralph R Willis Career and Technical Center
|(304) 752-4687
|Three Mile Curve Po Box 1747. Logan, WV 25601
|Monongalia County Technical Education Center
|(304) 291-9240
|1000 Mississippi St, Morgantown, WV 26501
|Fayette Institute of Technology
|Oak Hill
|(304) 469-2911
|300 W Oyler Ave, Oak Hill, WV 25901
|Carver Career Center
|(304) 348-1965
|4799 Midland Dr, Charleston, WV 25306
|South Branch Career and Technical Center
|(304) 257-1331
|401 Pierpont St, Petersburg, WV 26847


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The Student Refugee Program (SRP) is the only one of its kind to combine resettlement with opportunities for higher education. Launched in 1978 with the placement of one student at Carleton University, the program has since grown to support over 130 students per year through active partnerships with over 95 campuses.
As an official Sponsorship Agreement Holder in Canada, WUSC has a longstanding agreement with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. This agreement enables us to bring refugee students to study in Canada as permanent residents. WUSC identifies refugee students who are in need of resettlement and grants permission to WUSC Local Committees at universities, colleges and cegeps across Canada to sponsor in WUSC's name.
Crucial to the program's success is its unique youth-to-youth sponsorship model which empowers young Canadian students to play an active role in the sponsorship of refugee students. Our Local Committees raise funds and awareness for the program on their campus and in their community. They also play a critical role in offering day-to-day social and academic support to SRP students.
Going beyond resettlement, the SRP also provides an innovative pathway to integration for young refugees. A 2007 study found that 97 percent of sponsored students had completed or were in the process of completing their post-secondary program with many intending to further their education. The vast majority – 85 percent – had found work in their chosen fields after graduation.
The impact of this program has a ripple effect within the students' families and communities. By providing refugee youth with opportunities to continue their education, we also reignite their families' hopes for the future as we equip their children with the knowledge, skills and experiences to build a brighter future for themselves and their families. Such opportunities also encourage young refugees to stay in primary and secondary school in hopes of applying for the Student Refugee Program upon graduation.
Since 1978, the program has supported over 2,000 young refugees to continue their education in safe and supportive environments on Canadian campuses across the country.
Responding to the Syrian Refugee Crisis
Over the course of this past academic year, Canadian universities, colleges and cegeps have demonstrated remarkable leadership in helping those whose lives have been turned upside down by the Syrian crisis.
In September of 2015, we partnered with Universities Canada and Colleges and Institutes Canada, to reach out to over 200 post-secondary academic institutions across the country. We challenged them to implement or increase their support of the Student Refugee Program on their campus. Thanks to the commitment of students, faculty and staff at these institutions, the response was – simply put – tremendous.
As a result, with the support of our institutional partners, we welcomed nine additional Syrian students to live and study in Canada this January. This September, we anticipate welcoming an additional 160 youth from refugee contexts in Jordan, Lebanon, Kenya and Malawi, with more than half originating from Syria.
About WUSC
World University Service of Canada (WUSC) is a Canadian international development non-profit organization dedicated to improving education, employment and empowerment opportunities for youth, women and refugees in more than 25 countries around the world. For over fifty years, we have empowered our unique network of post-secondary institutions, private sector partners and volunteers to help build a more equitable and sustainable world for youth. To find out more, please visit wusc.ca.
Students Testimonials
ALFRED ORONO ORONO, Former SRP Student, BA Criminology – University of Alberta
My experiences as a child soldier could have destroyed me, but instead fuelled a passion for championing human rights. In 1993, I finally escaped my captors and spent two years in various refugee camps, until I received the news that a group of young students at the University of Alberta were giving me a chance to pursue my post-secondary education through WUSC's Student Refugee Program. At a time where I felt powerless, I was given a chance at a better future for myself, my family and my community.
CYRUS SILVERSTRIDER WUSC Local Committee Member, University of Toronto – St. George Campus
I was very inspired by the direct, positive impact I could have in refugee students' lives by being an active member of our WUSC Local Committee. I realized I could be a friend, a welcoming peer, and a mentor all in one to help make the students' experiences in Canada the best they can be. The best part about being involved with my Local Committee is the opportunity I get to glimpse the network of brilliant students that have come to study in Canada. I have had the chance to meet so many SRP students, and I have to say, I am humbled by the joy, positivity, and perseverance they all share.


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As the saying goes, "Vermont Ain't Flat." The half marathon is run on a 50/50 mix of paved and hard-packed dirt roads with several elevation changes—some long grades but nothing too steep. Runners will enjoy beautiful views of the Green and Adirondack Mountains and green pastures throughout the race.
Half Marathon: The first half of the course is a loop. Runners will head down South Street towards downtown Middlebury and cross Routes 30 and 125 onto Weybridge Street, then turning onto Morgan Horse Farm Road. They'll pass the UVM Morgan Horse Farm and eventually head back into Middlebury via Sheep Farm Road. The race's middle miles and relay exchange zone are on the beautiful and historic campus of Middlebury College. Runners will traverse the campus and head into the woods near Dragone Field for approximately 1 mile. The trail is hard packed dirt and gravel and is part of the college's NCAA XC course. Runners will enter onto South Street Extension (near EastView retirement community) and head south. The last 4.5 miles of the race are out-and-back on South Street Extension, a hard-packed dirt road.
Course Highlights
- 9:00 a.m. start time
- Scenic 13.1-mile course
- Mile 1 completely closed to traffic
- Miles 8-13 closed to traffic, except residents
- Start/finish lines behind Porter Hospital
- Relay exchange zone 10-minute walk from start/finish
- More than 50 volunteers to support your race!
- Aid stations approximately every 2.5 miles--all stocked with water, Gatorade, first aid supplies
- Roving medical and safety personnel
- USATF certified (#VT14007JK)
View course, elevation, venue maps here.
3-Mile Fun Run: The fun run uses the same start and finish as the half marathon and a subset of the longer route. Fun runners will take a left at Freeman Way, traverse the Middlebury College campus, and head directly to the finish line shortly after the runners turn onto South Street.
Course Highlights
- 9:00 start time
- Mile 1 completely closed to traffic
- Start/finish lines behind Porter Hospital
- Plenty of volunteer support
- Aid station at Mile 2
- This course measures approximately 3 miles and is not USATF-certified.


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Home → Hunting & Trapping → Hunting Laws & Rules → Hunting Areas
Hunting Areas
On this page:
- State Parks and Historic Sites
- Wildlife Management District Map
- Public Reserved Lands
- Wildlife Management Areas
- National Wildlife Refuges (NWR)
- White Mountain National Forest
- National Park Service
- Baxter State Park
- Closed and Special Regulation Areas
- Railroad Tracks
- Native American Territory
State Parks and Historic Sites
The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, Bureau of Parks and Lands manages one-half million acres of land in Maine for a mix of activities, including hunting and trapping. The safety of all visitors is the Bureau's primary concern, so certain heavily developed and high-use areas are closed to hunting for all or part of the year. In other areas, the bureau provides as many hunting and trapping opportunities as are reasonable and consistent with its mandates and with visitor safety.
Hunters and trappers are asked to exercise due caution and care for the safety and enjoyment of other visitors when using Bureau lands by obeying posted information and the rules listed below.
General hunting, except where specifically prohibited, is allowed from the day after Labor Day to May 31. Hunting and trapping must conform with State of Maine laws, MDIFW rules, and local ordinances. Trapping on state park or historic site land in organized townships requires the written permission of the Bureau. There is no hunting allowed in the restricted zone of the Allagash Wilderness Waterway between May 1 and September 30.
- Hunting is not allowed in any Memorial or Historic Site.
- Hunting is not allowed at Andrews Beach; that portion of Bradbury Mountain State Park west of State Route 9; Cobscook Bay; Crescent Beach and Kettle Cove; Damariscotta Lake; Ferry Beach; Holbook Island Sanctuary; Nickerson Lake; Owls Head Light; that portion of Quoddy Head within 1,000 feet of the lighthouse, or at Reid, Sebago Lake, Shackford Head, Two Lights, and Wolfe's Neck Woods State Parks.
- Work areas and areas with significant public use may be posted and closed to hunting from time to time in the interest of public safety.
- The discharging of any weapons from or within 300 feet of any designated trail, picnic area, camping area, campsite, parking area, building, boat launching site, or other developed area or bridge is prohibited.
- Loaded weapons are not allowed on the treadway of any trail posted "Closed to hunting".
- The baiting of any animal for the purpose of hunting is not allowed.
For more information, please call (207) 287-3821, TTY (207) 287-2213 or write to:
Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands
22 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333-0022
Wildlife Management District Map
The Wildlife Management District (WMD) map is available at all Inland Fisheries and Wildlife offices, or see Wildlife Management Districts where you'll find individual district maps and a list of towns and district numbers for each town.
Public Reserved Lands
Firearms: Loaded firearms are not permitted in campsites, on marked hiking trails, at boat launching sites, or at picnic sites, and shall not be discharged within 300 feet of such areas.
Bear Hunting: A permit is required from the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands to place bait on Public Reserved Land for the purpose of hunting bear.
Wildlife Management Areas
All MDIFW-owned Wildlife Management Areas (WMA), except Steve Powell WMA (Swan Island) and portions of Steep Falls and Killick Pond WMA, are open for general-law hunting and trapping. A full list of these areas can be found at mefishwildlife.com. Permanent hunting stands placed on MDIFW-owned WMAs require a permit, and bear baiting/trapping is authorized by permit only. Contact the appropriate Regional office for permit inquiries.
Bartlett Island, within the Town of Mount Desert, Hancock County is a Privately owned WMA and hunting is allowed by landowner permission only.
National Wildlife Refuges (NWR)
Note: On National Wildlife Refuges that permit hunting of upland game, persons hunting upland species other than deer and turkey with a shotgun shall possess and use only nontoxic shot while in the field.
More restrictive regulations may apply to National Wildlife Refuges open to public hunting and a refuge hunting permit may be required. For more information on federal refuge regulations, contact:
- Rachel Carson NWR
321 Port Road
Wells, ME 04090
(207) 646-9226
- Maine Coastal Islands NWR
PO Box 279
Milbridge, ME 04658
(207) 594-0600
- Sunkhaze Meadows NWR
103 Headquarters Road
Baring, ME 04694
(207) 454-7161
- Moosehorn NWR
(Baring and Edmunds Units)
103 Headquarters Road
Baring, ME 04694
(207) 454-7161
- Lake Umbagog NWR
PO Box 240
Errol, NH 03579
(603) 482-3415
- Aroostook NWR
97 Refuge Rd.
Limestone, ME 04750
(207) 328-4634
White Mountain National Forest
Oxford County, Maine
The public land within National Forests is open to hunting. Portable observation stands that do not damage live trees may be used. Please contact the Androscoggin Ranger District for more information on bear baiting on National Forest lands at (603) 466-2713.
National Park Service
Acadia National Park & the Appalachian National Scenic Trail — hunting, trapping, and/or possessing a weapon is prohibited on land administered by the National Park Service. For further information on these lands contact:
- Acadia National Park
PO Box 177, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
(207) 288-3338
- Appalachian Trail Park Office
Harpers Ferry Center
Harpers Ferry, WV 25425
(304) 535-6270
- Appalachian Trail Conference
New England Regional Office
PO Box 264, South Egremont, MA 01258
(413) 528-8002
Mount Desert Island (MDI) is located within the geographic boundary of WMD 26.
Baxter State Park
Hunting and trapping are prohibited within the Park. Use or possession of any firearm, bow and arrow, sling shot, or air rifle or pistol is prohibited. Firearms may be transported through the Park if kept in a car trunk, enclosed in a case, or otherwise inaccessible to use. Bows may be transported through the Park if unstrung or enclosed in a case. This rule does not apply north of Trout Brook and Wadleigh Brook in T6 R9; in T6 R10; or in T2 R9 andin T2 R10 north of the West Branch of the Penobscot River, east to the thread of Abol Stream and west to the thread of the West Branch of the Penobscot River.
Hunting with dogs is prohibited. In the areas within the Park where hunting and trapping are permitted, the general laws of the State pertaining to hunting and trapping apply, except that moose hunting and baiting any animals for hunting purposes are prohibited. For more information, visit baxterstatepark.org
Closed and Special Regulation Areas
Unity Utilities District: It is unlawful to hunt on the Unity Utilities District Property located on Route #139 and Prairie Road in Unity, Waldo County.
Gray Squirrels: It is unlawful to hunt gray squirrels on any land which is dedicated as a public or private park or on any land located within the limits of the compact or built-up portion of any city or town.
Haley Pond: It is unlawful to hunt waterfowl on Haley Pond in the town of Rangeley and Dallas Plantation, Franklin County.
Wildlife Sanctuaries and certain Wildlife Management Areas: Unless otherwise specifically provided, it is unlawful to hunt or trap any wild animal or wild bird within the limits of any wildlife sanctuary, any area properly posted by the State of Maine, or within the following described territories:
- Back Bay Sanctuary, Portland
- Beauchamp Sanctuary: Open to the taking of deer with bow and arrow during any open season that allow hunting of deer, including expanded archery.
- Cape Elizabeth Sanctuary*
- Carver's Pond Waterfowl Sanctuary
- Colby College Area, Waterville
- Drake's Island Game Sanctuary
- Dry Pond Sanctuary (Crystal Lake)
- Fairfield Sanctuary*
- Glencove Sanctuary
- Gray Game Sanctuary
- Hog Island Game Sanctuary
- Jefferson & Whitefield Sanctuary
- Kineo Point Sanctuary
- Limington, Hollis, Waterboro Sanctuary
- Lowell E. Barnes Area, Oxford County
- Marsh Island Area,* Old Town: Open to the taking of deer with bow and arrow during any open season that allow hunting of deer, including expanded archery.
- Megunticook Lake and Vicinity Sanctuary
- Merrymeeting Bay Game Sanctuary
- Monroe Island Game Sanctuary
- Moosehead Lake Game Sanctuary
- Moosehorn Game Sanctuary
- Narragansett Game Sanctuary*
- Oak Grove Area, Vassalboro
- Ocean Park Game & Bird Sanctuary
- Orrington Game Sanctuary
- Pittston Farm Sanctuary
- Prout's Neck, Richmond's Island;
- Rangeley Game Sanctuary
- Rangeley Lake Sanctuary
- Readfield and Winthrop Sanctuary
- Salmon Pond Sanctuary
- Sebago Lake Basin Area, Standish, Windham
- Somerset Game Sanctuary Standish Sanctuary
- Standish Sanctuary
- Stanwood Wildlife Sanctuary, Ellsworth
- Steve Powell WMA (Swan Island), Richmond
- Thorncrag-Stanton Bird Sanctuary
- Tomhegan Game Sanctuary
- Wells Sanctuary
- Wells & York Game Sanctuary
- Willow Water Game Sanctuary
- Woodbury Sanctuary, Litchfield, Monmouth
- York Game Sanctuary, Franklin County
* Trapping allowed in accordance with the general laws of the State.
Railroad Tracks
Stay off the Tracks. A person may not, without right:
- Enter or drive upon a railroad track with a team or a vehicle, however propelled
- Stand or walk on a railroad track or railroad bridge, or pass over a railroad bridge, except by railroad conveyance.
Native American Territory
As a result of the Maine Indian Claims Settlement Act of 1980, lands purchased by the Penobscot Native American Nation and the Passamaquoddy Tribe within certain designated areas of the State are classified as Native American territory and have special legal status. The Penobscot Nation and the Passamaquoddy Tribe, within their respective Native American territories, have exclusive authority to regulate hunting and trapping. At the time of this publication, parcels of Native American territory had been acquired within the following areas:
Penobscot Nation
Franklin County: Alder Stream Twp.
Penobscot County: T2R9 NWP (western portion), T3R9 NWP (eastern portion), T6R8 WELS (western portion) Argyle Township (northern portion) and T3R1 NBPP (northeastern portion).
Piscataquis County: T6R8 NWP. The Penobscot Nation also has exclusive authority to regulate hunting and trapping in the Penobscot Reservation, consisting of all islands in the Penobscot River north of, and including, Indian Island, located near Old Town, Maine. Contact the Penobscot Nation, Department of Natural Resources for specific locations of Reservation islands.
Passamaquoddy Tribe
Franklin County: Lowelltown, T1R8 WBKP.
Hancock County: T3&4ND. Penobscot County: T3R9 NWP, T5R1 NBPP, TAR7 WELS.
Somerset County: Holeb T6R1 NBKP, Prentiss, T4R4 NBKP, Hammond Township, T3R4 NBKP, Alder Brook Township, T3R3 NBKP, Pittston Academy Grant, T2R4 NBKP Soldiertown Township, T2R3 NBKP.
Washington County: T5ND, BPP; T19 MD, Indian Township, and Pleasant Point, Perry.
Most of these areas will be conspicuously posted as Native American Territory. Anyone wishing to hunt or trap on Native American territory should contact the appropriate Native American agency for further information.
- Penobscot Nation
Department of Natural Resources
12 Wabanaki Way
Indian Island, ME 04468
(207) 817-7331
- Passamaquoddy Tribe
Ranger Department
Box 301, Princeton, ME 04668
(207) 796-2677
- Maine Tribal-State Commission
13 Commissary Point Rd
Trescott, ME 04652
(207) 733-2222


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Joint Transportation Committee Report
By: Pete Obermueller, WCCA Executive Director and Kelli Little, WCCA Deputy Director
The Joint Transportation committee met last week in Douglas and on their agenda was a discussion on vehicle registration fees. The committee wanted to see how Wyoming's fee system compared to those in our surrounding states. The WCCA volunteered to do the research and put together a report for the committee that would show them how each surrounding state's fees were calculated and then show the comparison of the fees for certain sample vehicles. You can view the report here.
Kelli Little, WCCA Deputy Director, put together the report for the committee and presented it. In her testimony, she urged the committee to consider the entire fiscal picture of the states in the region. While Wyoming's counties rely more heavily on vehicle registration fees for revenue, many other states impose higher property taxes, state income taxes (both individual and corporate), as well as higher sales taxes. She also reminded the committee that the county portion of the vehicle registration fees are distributed exactly like property tax, with only 19% of that revenue going to the counties; the rest goes to the schools.
This topic was first brought to the attention of the committee by Senator Jim Anderson, who sponsored SF 74 last legislative session. This bill would have changed the registration fee formula in Wyoming for vehicles with an original MSRP of $75,000 or more. Right now, the county portion of the fee is calculated by the following formula: MSRP x Year of Service Rate x .03. The year of service rate is depreciated down until the 6th year of service, and then it is the same rate from thereafter. This bill would have depreciated the rate further, with reductions in the 11th year and the 16th year of service. This bill died in committee.
Senator Meier: How many vehicles do we have in Wyoming that are past that 6 year mark?
Kelli: In FY 2011, roughly half of the vehicles registered in Wyoming were in or beyond their 10th year of service.
The committee did not take any action on this topic at the meeting, but has asked the WCCA and the Treasurers Association to work together to see if we can come up with a revenue-neutral proposal so that people are paying less on their registration fees on older vehicles.
Following this the committee moved on to a report from WYDOT Director Bill Panos on WyoLink. Director Panos outlined the progress on WyoLink in much the same manner as he has been in County Commission meetings all across the state. I won't repeat it here.
I testified, along with Commissioner Willox, that by and large we are in a much better place regarding WyoLink than a year ago, but more work remains. I made the case that 911 operations, dispatch, and interoperable communications are a pressure point in county budgets and that the "faux bills" we have been receiving are actually being paid by money that was otherwise earmarked for local government. That amount will run out in FY18, and so we will seek from them a reasonable fee increase to help ease that pressure and cover any potential WyoLink user fees. However, I did not suggest any specific fee at this meeting, opting to work on potential options for the autumn meeting.


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I'm just going to pretend it hasn't been 6 months since my last post (apparently A-Levels are quite time-consuming) and pick up where I left off by talking about my favourite topic: EYEBROWS.
Recently Benefit had a huge, brow-based re-vamp; re-packaging old products and bringing out a load of new ones. As an eyebrow fanatic, I wanted to try EVERYTHING so I not-so-subtlety emailed my mum pictures of the Benefit Defined and Refined Brow Kit and it was plopped in my lap on Christmas Day.
For £31.50, you get three full-size brow products plus a shaping tool and a funky yellow tin. For the last few weeks I have been using Precisely, My Brow Pencil religously and I'm a big fan. It's got a skinny, twist-up brow pencil on one end with a spoolie on the other - almost identical to my favourite makeup product of all time: the Soap and Glory Archery Pencil. The colour is spot on for me, not too warm or red-toned like a lot of brow products. The consistency and shape of the pencil is perfect for natural, hair-like strokes and it lasts all day. However, it is £12 more expensive than the Soap and Glory option and the only real difference I've noticed is slightly snazzier packaging, so as much as I love this pencil I'm not sure I'll replace it when it runs out.
The High Brow Highlighting Pencil has also been an everyday staple for me recently. This is a chunky, pale pink, creamy pencil that you swipe underneath each brow to highlight. Benefit also offer a shimmery option but I really like that this one is matte. The highlight isn't too in-your-face - it just lifts and cleans up the brows.
Finally, the Browvo Conditioning Eyebrow Primer. I tried this as a primer a couple of times but I didn't really get on with it. Supposedly it makes whatever you whack on top apply better and last longer but it just made my brows half-wet, half-crispy and didn't do anything for the wear-time. Instead, I've been using this for its other purpose as a conditioning serum. My natural eyebrows are a little lacking in the growth department so I've been slathering this on each night in the hopes that I'll wake up with naturally full, thick brows. I'll keep you updated on my progress.
So all-in-all I'm impressed with this little tin. And £31.50 for three full size products is a pretty good deal considering each retails for 20 odd quid. There are three different tins available, each with a different selection of products so you can pick whichever takes your fancy and get a feel for the new range. Despite only having two eyebrows, I am definitely going to be trying more.
Thanks for reading, Lucy xFollow
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When night falls, the vibe around the Nectar pool bar transforms. There is something magical when you sit under the stars and let yourself relax while admiring the pool's blue waters. And if those moments are accompanied by a five-star service that offers you a great selection of spirits and drinks, then you have all you need to enjoy an unforgettable night.menu


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Together we can make a difference!
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals can change the world; indeed it's the only thing that ever has. – Margaret Meade
We are looking for parents, teachers, and students who support advanced and gifted education for Rochester Community Schools in Michigan. Please subscribe to Rochester SAGE to receive updates.
Also, please visit the "How to Help" link in the upper right.
Last Chance for CHAMP
Last chance for CHAMP!
Reminder: Avondale G/T School of Choice
Is your child in the top 5-7% of students and going into third or fourth grade next year? The great new gifted program in Avondale will provide the curriculum and instruction high ability students need!
Applications for the new Gifted Magnet Program in Avondale School District are due by 4 PM on Wednesday, May 10! More information on the program is at www.avondale.k12.mi.us/departments/gifted-and-talented and the School of Choice application is at chooseavondale.com Interested? Email Hillary Olance at email@example.com
Thank you for reading Rochester SAGE! Together we are making a difference for gifted children!
A path for gifted students
My first op-ed in the Detroit News!
"District policy doesn't allow us to teach next year's math. And it wouldn't be fair to teachers to require them to be able to teach it."
This statement by my daughter's teacher exemplified the struggle we were having in the classroom, school and district. And it told us that except for the rare bright spot — like a principal dedicated to academic growth for all learners, but who went on sabbatical a year after we changed to her school, and a teacher who volunteered to teach sixth-grade math in a fifth-grade classroom — we would not be getting the services needed for our children.
More at http://www.detroitnews.com/story/opinion/2017/02/13/gifted-students-avondale/97871688/


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Our refreshing and energy giving Soft Drink Powders are perfect stop for soft drink lovers. With various savoring flavors we are serving delicious powders to make instant cold drinks. These are perfect mouth-feel, sweetness and quality powders that prepare diluted drinks. The ingredients and flavors used are freshly picked and natural with complete nutrition. Our Soft Drink Powders are available in low and no calorie flavors also without compromising the taste. These are best for any time refreshment be it a party, a casual meeting, friends chit chat or a mood swing.
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By Anand Menon, King's College London
Europe's neighbourhood is in flames.
To the south, the optimism provoked by the Arab spring quickly gave way to concern about successor regimes. To the east, all eyes are on Ukraine as some 40,000 Russian troops equipped with fighter jets and tanks amass on the border, and Moscow completes its annexation of what was recently an integral part of a state aspiring to EU membership.
Unrest in the near abroad clearly represents a threat to European stability. It has also been seen as a humiliation for the European Neighbourhood Policy, a flagship EU strategy intended, in the words of the European Commission, to share "the benefits of the EU with neighbouring countries, thus strengthening stability, security and well-being".
That stability, security and well being are in short supply in the States in question is hardly open to question. Yet, while it is all too easy simply to blame the European Union for this failure, it is also profoundly unfair.
For one thing, the current crises owe much to factors outside European control. Powerful domestic forces in Syria, Libya, Egypt and Ukraine have helped to generate often unpredictable outcomes. Second, in both their eastern and southern neighbourhoods, Europeans now confront powerful rivals unwilling simply to stand by and watch the EU go about its business. Gulf states are more than happy to pay handsomely to keep the Muslim Brotherhood out of power – whatever the democratic implications – while Russia continues decisviely to shape developments in the Caucasus.
Finally, much of the responsibility for Europe's inability to wield the influence it badly wants lies not with with the Union itself, but rather with national governments. The Ukraine crisis provides a salutary example. During the autumn of 2013, Kiev and the EU were hard at work negotiating a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement with the EU. As is well known, Ukraine's then-president Viktor Yanukovych ultimately refused to sign the deal, resulting in protests, a subsequent crackdown, the overthrow of his regime and ultimately Russia's intervention in Crimea.
An overplayed hand
Prior to the summit in Vilnius intended to inaugurate a new era of co-operation with Ukraine, it was those member states most invested in this relationship that drove EU diplomacy. Lithuania, holder of the EU presidency, was desperate to seal a deal while at the helm. So too was Poland, a country with particularly close ties to Kiev, and whose foreign minister, Radoslaw Sikorski – never a shrinking violet – was anxious to raise his own profile and ultimately secure a top EU job for himself. Together, they whipped up enthusiasm for a deal amongst pro-Western forces in Ukraine.
But the headlong push for success at Vilnius was naive. First, it overlooked Russian interests and the fact that Moscow was simply not willing to see Ukraine sign an agreement that would have been incompatible with membership of Russia's own Eurasian Economic Union.
In addition, proponents of the deal failed to convince their own partners of its importance. Whether because preoccupied with their own internal economic problems, or because of their geographical distance from Europe's eastern borders, several member states were reluctant to offer too much to Kiev. While what was offered promised significant long-term benefits, short-term gains fell well short of those offered by Russia as an incentive for Ukraine to walk away from the EU talks.
Crucially, member states were simply unable to agree to offer the ultimate prize of accession to the EU. Historically, this has been the only inducement capable of persuading neighbours to undertake the kinds of large-scale reform that were being demanded of Ukraine.
Equal pain for all
Geopolitical naivety and material insufficiency were hardly the basis for an effective approach to the Union's Eastern neighbour. And the same divisions that spawned these have been all the more apparent since the crisis erupted in Crimea. While Poland and the Baltic states in particular pressed for a tough European reaction, Italy and Spain, among others, have been anxious not to undermine their improving links with the Kremlin.
Member states, in other words, are as anxious as ever to preserve their narrow national interests, even at the expense of collective foreign policy clout. At a recent seminar, a senior British official was heard to remark that the European response to Crimea should be based on the principle of "equal pain". This was intended to imply not that Russia's brazen flouting of international law should be met with a proportionate western response, but that any putative European sanctions should damage German and French interests as much as British ones.
Given this, it is important not to expect too much of Baroness Ashton as she prepares for discussions within the quad next week. The EU's high representative has proved a formidable negotiator and mediator in some of the most intractable international disputes of our time – one thinks of the conflict between Serbia and Kosovo, or of the ongoing negotiations with Iran. Yet this has been possible only when member states could, between them, agree on what they want her to achieve. Over Ukraine, this has so far simply not been the case.
The EU offers a unique instrument via which member states can, collectively, wield far greater influence over world affairs – including in their own neighbourhood – than they could muster individually. Yet for the whole to empower the parts requires those parts to allow it to do so. However tempting it may be to portray the problems in the neighbourhood as a failing of "Brussels", this is simply not the case.
Anand Menon receives funding from the UK's Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).


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Friday, September 26, 2008
Pink Poison has it going on!!
Pink Poison/Splendid Little Company has some great stamp sets, and a fabulous and fun blog. Be sure to check out her designs and blog when you have a few minutes...you won't be dissapointed! =) The bird image is from the Xmas Bird set, and it is soooooo much fun to color! I really enjoyed dressing up these two love birds in Baja Breeze and the boy bird is outlined with a little Pacific Point too. I used dazzling diamonds on their belly feathers and some crystal effects on various portions of their winter wear to give them a little more depth. The sentiment is not part of Pink Poison....like I said, I don't own the set, but it is on my wishlist, so I pulled out my SAB set from last year and just used the top portion of the Christmas sentiment. Finally, a nice thick piece of Chocolate Chip ribbon tied it all together. These are not Christmas colors that I traditionally think of but I really like the combo together!
My second card is also a Pink Poison stamp. Meet Angel Anya....Marie has plans to dress her up many ways. Right now she is available as Angel Anya, Nurse Anya and Princess Anya. Superbly cute!! I really liked playing with her. She's a great size and FUN to color!! I used the new SU in color Baja Breeze and Whisper White as the main colors. I used my blender pens to color her up and added Dazzling Diamonds and Crystal Effects to really add some glitz and glamour to her day! I am sending this Anya card to my Chemo Angel patient. She's 6 and battleing kidney cancer. I send her a card or two each week and this card will really perk up her day!!
12 comments:
- Pat (mspfd) said...
These are so well done! Love them both; the addition of the crystal effects and DD look terrific.
- September 26, 2008 at 6:39 AM
- Lorraine said...
really cute images. tfs! the birds are adorable...so is the angel. love all your detail to both cards!
- September 26, 2008 at 6:43 AM
- PINK POISON said...
These are cuuuuuuute beyond words!!!! I love them! You do know now that I must have these to put in my gallery!!! *ok I will stop yelling now* Lol. Uber awesome-ness Tonya!
- September 26, 2008 at 6:57 AM
- Kelley Nyrae said...
Wow, Tonya. I think both of these are two of my favorites. Are these the ones you were trying to upload? Glad you were able to get them up. Great job :)
- September 26, 2008 at 8:06 AM
- Stampin' Meg said...
oh that little angel card is so precious-I am sure that it will make her day brigher.
- September 26, 2008 at 8:44 AM
- Angie Williams said...
These are such cute images! You have beautiful cards.
- September 26, 2008 at 10:40 AM
- Maureen said...
Both cute cards, but I especially LOVE the Anya!! Great job!
- September 27, 2008 at 2:14 AM
- nancy morgan said...
You are making these Pink Poison images look AWESOME possum!!! Great coloring and layouts...super-duper all the way around :)!
- October 1, 2008 at 12:57 AM
- Ann said...
Wow! I am lovin' your coloring and sparkle! Both of these are too cute! :D
- November 4, 2008 at 7:02 PM
- Lisa Trombitas - www.stampwithlisat.com said...
Wow - I couldn't decide which post or which card to comment on. Great coloring job, adorable images, and I really like your style!
- November 12, 2008 at 6:38 PM
- Amanda said...
Love your cards. Your color choices are great!
- November 13, 2008 at 11:54 AM
- Kerry said...
These cards are both so sweet! I love what you did with those little birdies!
- November 13, 2008 at 10:53 PM


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The Equator is an imaginary line on the globe that is equidistant from the North and South Poles, dividing the Earth into Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
At latitude 0° of course! But where does this occur in the real, physical world? The exact specification of the equator is, in fact, somewhat variable and dependent on the chosen mathematical datum. With today's modern technology, which includes GPS (Global Positioning System) the answer to this question appears below. There have been a number of 'Equator line' monuments built in the past.
In 1936, with the support of the French American Committee, Ecuadorian geographer Dr. Luis Tufiño built a 10-meter monument in San Antonio de Pichincha to commemorate the first Geodesic Mission.
The new and much larger (30 meter tall) monument, Museo Etnografico Mitad del Mundo, was constructed between 1979 and 1982 to mark the point where the equator passes through the country in the geodetic datum in use in Ecuador at that time. According to recent calculations, this monument is 240.3 meters south of the true Equator line


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"Let me be honest with you: I tend to judge a fly tier's skills on his or her ability to make a nice head on a fly. Simple as that."
and i'll be just as honest in saying that i completely agree and share the same point of view as Martin Joergensen.
ugly, sloppy, materials-or-varnish-cramming-the-hookeye heads are just that; ugly and sloppy. i'll up that in sarcastically stating that tiers who display this despicable ugliness should be…
somewhat joking aside*, Martin's recent article on GlobalFlyFisher brings up a whole busload of great points on how to finish off a fly whilst bearing in mind that that finish is often influenced by how the fly was started in the first place:
"Even the first few thread wraps can have an influence on the appearance of the head on a fly. Start in the wrong place and the proportions of your fly are screwed. Tie in the rib too far ahead before adding the body, before putting on a wing and a hackle, and there's no room for the head. Too far back, and you have bare shank that either needs to be covered or will simply remain bare.
Too thick a wing, too dense a hackle, too lousy a technique, and there will be demand for many wraps to cover the misery, leading to a head way larger than needed – and way larger than what looks good."
for lots and lots more thoughts on fly construction, examples and concrete tips, be sure to click the pic above to access Martin's article. enjoy !
* you're right, i'm turning into a grumpy old bastard and even if its a conscious and wilful decision and that messy fly heads usually catch just as many fish as nice and pretty-headed flies… my point isn't so much about being a grump but of encouraging tiers to up their game, develop their technique and bring it to another level. hopefully.


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Current Newswire:
NY Times: Linux's Open-Door Policy Could Let Hackers Right InMar 30, 2000, 20:08 (21 Talkback[s])
(Other stories by Kevin Max)
"But the Linux principle of openness is what security experts fear most."
"When you have open source, there is the potential for greater problems," says MacDonnell Ulsch, a senior manager of technology risk devices at PricewaterhouseCoopers, the accounting and consulting firm. "For example, every time you make a change to the code, you report it. Over time, does that reveal more about your infrastructure than you want to reveal?..."
"Before Internet banking and the World Wide Web, information was more secure. A dog, a guard and a gun and you were all set," he says. "If Linux security is ignored, this is a looming crisis."
[ Free site registration required. lt-ed. ]
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