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Freedom on the Net
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2012 Scores
Freedom on the Net Status
Freedom on the Net Total(0 = best, 100 = worst)
(0 = Best, 100 = Worst)
Obstacles to Access(0 = best, 25 = worst)
(0 = Best, 25 = Worst)
Limits on Content(0 = best, 35 = worst)
(0 = Best, 35 = Worst)
Violations of User Rights(0 = best, 40 = worst)
(0 = Best, 40 = Worst)
Nigeria saw marked progress in its information and communications technology (ICT) sector in 2011 with the pronounced use of ICTs during the April 2011 elections and the mid-year announcement of a new communication technology ministry (also known as the ICT ministry). Since 1999, when Nigeria returned to civilian governance after almost 30 years of military rule,[1] press freedom and the space for free expression have increased significantly. Nevertheless, the legal and political environment for traditional media remains harsh, and a major story in 2011 was the death of a journalist for which a radical Islamic sect, Boko Haram, claimed responsibility.
Online media has been comparatively free from such restrictions, though a blogger was detained for questioning in January 2011. The Nigerian authorities do not carry out any filtering of content, and while access to information technology is still limited for many Nigerians, the number of internet users nearly quadrupled between 2008 and 2011. Legislative initiatives introduced in the National Assembly in 2007, which threatened to impinge upon the relative freedom and privacy enjoyed by online journalists, expired when the newly-elected National Assembly convened in June 2011.
The internet was first introduced in the early 1990s, and usage grew more popular following an internet workshop organized by the Yaba College of Technology in 1995.[2] Internet access expanded when cybercafes sprang up in major cities across Nigeria in 1999, though it was expensive and connections were very slow. The introduction of internet access via mobile phone service in 2004 has spurred further increases in internet use.
Internet access in Nigeria has grown exponentially in recent years, particularly after the introduction of mobile phone data services and Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) services. There were about 100,000 internet users in 1999,[3] but the figure grew exponentially to 11 million in 2008[4] and reached 46 million in 2011.[5] This large jump in access is due to an increase in mobile phone usage and data services, private sector and government investment in technology, and increased competition between FWA providers over this period. Nevertheless, internet penetration stood at 28.4 percent in 2011 according to the International Telecommunications Union (ITU),[6] and access is greater in urban areas than in rural regions.
Increased competition has decreased the cost of access for many Nigerians, and while the price for internet use remains about US$1 per hour in cybercafes, which have seen sharp decline in patronage in recent years due to increasing mobile internet usage enabled by decreasing costs of data plans. The average cost is now US$1 per megabyte of data on Global System for Mobile (GSM) networks, compared to US$7 in 2010. FWA services now cost an average of US$65 per month, down from US$80 in 2010. In comparison, the minimum wage in Nigeria is about US$116 per month, and the country's poverty rate actually increased in 2011.[7] Literacy remains an obstacle to access, with 28 percent of the population illiterate, particularly in English, the main language used by Nigerian online news outlets and blogs.[8]
Frequent power cuts remain an impediment to internet access, with many users reportedly relying more than ever on private generators to stay online during outages. In January 2011, a report quoted Nigeria as the largest importer of private power generators in Africa, despite the country's status as an oil-rich country.[9] Cybercafes continue to close due to difficulties paying for such expensive backup power generation in addition to the growing popularity of access via mobile devices and data plans offered by FWA and GSM companies. Although many providers use the word "broadband" in their promotional materials, in practice there is limited broadband service available in Nigeria, with latest statistics from the ITU placing the number of broadband subscribers at only 215,000 in 2011, amounting to a penetration rate of just 0.13 percent.[10]
The number of mobile phone subscribers has increased dramatically over the past decade from almost no users in 2000 to over 100 million as of May 2012, according to official data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).[11] The latest ITU data notes over 95 million mobile phone subscriptions in 2011, amounting to a mobile phone penetration rate of 58.6 percent.[12] Mobile internet subscriptions reached 7.3 million users by 2008[13] and grew by over 25 percent between October 2010 and October 2011.[14] While smart phone users can access the internet on their mobile devices, specific handsets such as Nokia's range of phones and Research in Motion's BlackBerry provide bundled data services to mobile subscribers. The number of BlackBerry users appears to be growing, particularly among young Nigerians, though the service costs US$20 per month. Nevertheless, the quality of service remains poor, with users frequently complaining about their inability to enjoy data services. Competition has forced service providers to offer alternative plans based on time (daily, weekly, or monthly payments) or use (social or messaging). According to credible sources in the industry, there were approximately 500,000 BlackBerry subscribers with all service providers as of October 2011.[15]
In March 2007, the government established the Nigerian Internet Exchange Point as a means of connecting internet service providers (ISPs) to one another; as of mid-2011, it had 32 members.[16] Several telecommunications companies have also migrated to private fiber-optic cable projects, such as Glo-1 and MainOne. The latter cable went live on July 1, 2010 and now provides connectivity for 18 ISPs and telecommunication companies in Nigeria and Ghana,[17] though the reduced cost of a cable rather than a satellite connection has yet to be passed on to consumers. The Glo-1 cable, a project of Globacom, launched in Ghana in April 2011.[18]
The video-sharing website YouTube, social-networking site Facebook, microblogging application Twitter, and various international blog-hosting services are freely available and among the most popular websites in the country. As of May 2012, there were over five million Facebook users.[19] According to Alexa, a website rating company, the ten most popular websites in Nigeria as of 2011 were Facebook, Google, Yahoo, Google.com.ng, YouTube, Blogspot.com, Twitter, Vanguard Newspaper, Wikipedia, and Nairaland (a Nigerian online discussion forum).[20] Four other Nigerian websites—VConnect (a local search engine with a huge database of relevant locations) at number 13, GTBank at number 14, Punch newspaper at number 16, and Jobberman (a job search portal) at number 20—were cited in the top 20.
The ICT market in Nigeria has expanded significantly over the past decade. The number of licensed ISPs has risen from 18 in 2000 to 136 (with 35 holding licenses that need renewal) as of mid-2011,[21] in addition to 11 active FWA providers[22] and four GSM mobile phone operators that also provide internet access to their subscribers.[23] Nigeria had more licensed ISPs and active FWA providers in 2010, but unlike the growth recorded by GSM operators, ISPs and FWA providers have not had as much success, as more people now access the internet through mobile (GSM) phones. As of June 2011, the four GSM companies had a total of 84 million subscribers between them: MTN had 40.5 million, compared to Globacom's 19.5 million, Airtel's 16 million, and Etisalat's 7.8 million.[24] All of the above companies are privately-owned.
The only government-owned firm in the market, NITEL, is now inactive, with only 58,750 land lines and 258,520 mobile lines. It has remained on the government's privatization list for several years following multiple attempts to sell it. In February 2009, Transcorp, a local conglomerate with strong ties to the government, relinquished its 51 percent stake, which it had acquired in 2006.[25] In February 2010, New Generation Telecoms, a consortium that includes China Unicom, won a controversial bid to purchase the company.[26] Responding to allegations of corruption surrounding the purchase, the president initiated an investigation,[27] but the findings have not yet been published. As at the end of 2011, NITEL remained on the government's list of to-be-sold companies.
Internet services are governed by the Nigerian Telecommunications Act, which vests regulatory responsibilities in the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). All ISPs must obtain a license from the NCC to operate, but there have been no reports of any ISP being denied a license or registration renewal. However, new ISPs seeking to enter the market have faced challenges in their operations due to competition from larger ISPs and investor focus on the mobile sector. Although the NCC's nine-member board is nominated by the government, the regulator's decisions are viewed as relatively independent.
There have been no reports of the Nigerian government engaging in any form of internet filtering.[28] According to the most recent study by the OpenNet Initiative (ONI), several websites were inaccessible surrounding the elections in 2007; however, the ONI researchers concluded that the disruptions were due to technical problems, not government intervention.[29] On May 29, 2011, there were reports by residents of the capital city, Abuja, that telecommunication services were inaccessible in certain areas. While the incident was not confirmed or reported by the mainstream media, various blogs covered the story, with one blogger reporting quotes from NCC representatives and the Visaphone service provider that confirmed the security reasons behind the isolated telecom shutdown.[30] Nevertheless, the complex nature of Nigeria's internet framework as described above makes it difficult to carry out systematic filtering or censorship. Some ISPs have been known to block access when users infringe on laws by downloading copyrighted content, but this has often been done to manage network traffic rather than protect intellectual property.
In June 2009, reports emerged that the Nigerian government planned to invest in sponsoring pro-government websites and blogs.[31] In practice, it has not been possible to confirm whether the plan has been implemented. Websites, blogs, and commentators are generally divided among anti-government, pro-government, and neutral leanings, and this continued as online political discussions increased in advance of the parliamentary and presidential elections in April 2011. Web commentary appeared to tilt in favor of anti-government leanings in January 2012 during the protests that became known as the Occupy Nigeria protests, but there has been a more balanced set of discussions since then, with many online commentators moving the conversation away from pro- and anti- leanings towards socioeconomic debates.
The April 2011 elections also saw heavy use of social media in discussions concerning the elections, campaigns, and citizen participation. A youth-led group, Enough is Enough Nigeria,[32] launched the Register-Select-Vote-Protect (RSVP) project that relied heavily on the use of social media to mobilize citizens for voter registration and disseminate information on competing candidates, actual voting drives, and election monitoring. The group also launched the mobile application, ReVoDa, which enabled citizens to monitor elections from their respective polling locations on their mobile phones.
Nigeria is home to a diverse blogosphere, with entertainment blogs drawing the most readers and a growing number of Nigerians blogging about their personal lives or social activism issues. Blogs have gradually emerged as an important platform for discussion and a source of reliable news for many users. Readers often leave comments on popular news-oriented blogs to express their frustration with societal ills. The Facebook page of the president has also become a major avenue through which citizens comment on public issues. At the height of the increasing security tensions in the country in January 2012, various comments on the president's Facebook page went as far as accusing the president of incompetence.
The Nigerian blogosphere includes both Nigerians living abroad and locally-based writers. While many of the former are longtime bloggers, only in the past six years have Nigerian residents actively joined the blogosphere,[33] with local blogging gaining momentum following a Nigerian bloggers' conference in 2008.[34] Although two attempts to create Nigerian blog aggregators have failed,[35] GlobalVoicesOnline.org, Blogger.com, Afrigator.com, and WordPress.com are popular platforms on which Nigerian bloggers interact and learn from one another. ICTs have also played an important role in mobilizing people for real life protests and providing updates on unfolding events. In November 2008, a widely circulated YouTube video showed an admiral and several other military officers severely beating a woman whom they deemed too slow in making way for their convoy.[36] Following public outcry, the woman received legal aid from the state government and sued the officers for assault and battery. In January 2010, a court awarded her 100 million naira (approximately US$613,000) in compensation.[37]
Online citizen activism in Nigeria was particularly evident during the 2011 elections, with social media enhancing the flow of information for mobilization and reporting. According to one report,[38] social media changed how information was disseminated, and "citizens accessed information directly and more accurately, resulting in unsurpassed participation in politics during the 2011 elections."[39] In January 2012, following an announcement of fuel pump price increases, protests were staged across Nigeria with the help of information disseminated on social media networks. The protests came to be known as Occupy Nigeria and were also covered by citizens using social media applications.[40]
Nigeria's legal framework has not been revised to reflect the use of new media technologies.[41] This lack of internet-specific legislation has generally fostered an open environment for online activities. Much of the public accepts the need for some regulation of internet use in light of the unchecked cybercrime in the country and the costs it has imposed on Nigeria's economy and global reputation.
At the commencement of the newly-elected National Assembly in June 2011, several proposed bills that could be used to restrict users' rights expired, and many of them have yet to be reintroduced on the assembly floor. In November 2011, the office of the National Security Adviser and other government departments drafted the Cybersecurity Bill, a revised version of the earlier Cyber Security and Information Protection Agency Bill, which had provisions that could restrict users' rights to free expression and privacy because it suggested that security officials could apprehend and prosecute users based on suspicion and without a court order. Taking into account feedback from citizens and stakeholders in the Nigerian ICT sector, the revised version reduced the powers granted to security officers by requiring a court order for the seizure of any equipment and for arrests based on suspicion.
While the 1999 constitution guarantees freedom of expression and of the press, the state often uses arbitrary and extralegal measures to suppress political criticism in the traditional media, and there is a culture of impunity for crimes against media workers. Libel remains a criminal offense, with the burden of proof resting on the defendant. Journalists covering sensitive issues such as official corruption, the president's health, and communal violence are regularly subjected to criminal prosecution. However, no such cases have yet been brought for online expression.[42] The implementation of Sharia (Islamic law) penal codes in 12 northern states has generally not affected internet freedom. However, in March 2010, a Sharia judge in Kaduna state banned efforts by the Civil Rights Congress of Nigeria to initiate online discussion of an amputation sentence on Facebook and Twitter.[43]
Cybercafes do not require customers to register or present any form of identification to go online, and any monitoring software installed on their computers is used only for billing purposes. In June 2009, drawing on the 2003 Nigerian Communications Act, the NCC announced that mobile phone companies would be expected to register all SIM cards by March 1, 2010 (later postponed to September 28, 2011).[44] After the cut-off date, the telecom regulator denied news reports that it had extended the registration deadline,[45] but it allowed the exercise to continue until the completion of the reconciliation exercise for data submitted by telecom service providers. Though the telecom regulator has complained that the exercise has suffered delays because of how telecom companies have managed decentralized registration, users could still register their SIM cards as of March 31, 2012.
Nigerian security services do not appear to proactively monitor internet and mobile phone communications, but many online journalists suspect that they are being monitored by the state. Due to the increase in activities considered acts of terrorism, the Nigerian government announced in November 2011 its intention to acquire "state of the art" security equipment to combat terrorism.[46] As of December 2011, not much has been heard of the project, but suspicions of state monitoring have increased since then, mostly because of the increased use of social media channels by government representatives. At least three government ministers have hosted Twitter chats between January 2011 and March 31, 2012.[47]
The Nigerian authorities have a history of arresting and intimidating traditional media workers, and at least eight journalists have been killed in connection with their work since 1998.[48] Although no individuals have been sentenced to prison or physically attacked for online activities as of April 2012, security agencies in late-2008 detained and interrogated two overseas bloggers upon their arrival in Nigeria. Jonathan Elendu, author of the website Elendu Reports, was arrested in October 2008 by the State Security Service, which is known to take orders directly from the president. He was reportedly questioned in relation to national security issues and for "sponsoring a guerrilla news agency."[49] Many observers believed he was detained for an alleged connection with another online platform, Sahara Reporters, that had published photographs of President Yar'Adua's 13-year-old son "waving wads of money around and holding a policeman's gun,"[50] or for falsely reporting that Yar'Adua had died during the 2007 presidential election campaign. Elendu was released after two weeks without facing charges.[51] The following month, another U.S.-based online journalist Emmanuel Emeka Asiwe, editor of the Huhuonline website, was detained. The State Security Service similarly stated that Asiwe was being questioned about "matters of national security" and released him after a week of interrogation.[52]
Most recently in January 2011, Okey Ndibe, a non-resident columnist with a local newspaper and online blogger was briefly detained on arrival in Nigeria. His passports were seized,[53] and he was directed to report to the State Security Service offices. Mr. Ndibe told the Associated Press that "he believed his brief detention and the passport seizures came from the government's displeasure over his articles." According to the news blog TransparencyNG, "Ndibe's columns criticized the 2007 election that brought late President Umaru Yar'Adua to power… From then on, Ndibe never referred to Yar'Adua as the president." The government did not make any comments about the reason for his arrest, but his passports were given back two days later.[54]
Cyberattacks have increased in Nigeria, though most of the targets remain government websites. The website of the National Assembly was hacked on October 1, 2010 by activists who posted remarks criticizing the ruling elite for poor governance and wastefulness in spending significant resources on celebrations of Nigeria's 50 years of independence.[55] In October 2011, following a statement by the head of the telecom regulatory agency calling for internet control, the website of the NCC and another government agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, were hacked by a group known as Naija Cyber Hacktivists,[56] the same activists who have claimed almost all such incidents to date. Cybercrime remains a major problem in Nigeria, and conversations around the need for cybercrime legislation have since moved on to broader discussions on cyber security, mostly because of incidents of terrorism led by an Islamic sect popularly referred to as Boko Haram. A new draft cybercrime bill, coordinated by the offices of the National Security Adviser and the Attorney General, is expected to be presented to the National Assembly as a cyber security bill.
[1] Abegunrin Olayiwola, Nigerian Foreign Policy Under Military Rule, 1966–1999 (Westport, CT: Praeger, 2003).
[2] The workshop was hosted by the Yaba College of Technology in Lagos in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission, the National Data Bank, the Literacy Training and Development Program for Africa (University of Ibadan), the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), the United States Information Service (USIS), the Regional Information Network for Africa (RINAF), and the British Council. United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, "Nigeria: Internet Connectivity," http://www.uneca.org/aisi/nici/country_profiles/Nigeria/nigeriainter.htm, accessed August 27, 2010.
[3] Ibid.
[4] "Nigeria Internet Users Tops 11 Million, Penetration Now 7.8%," Web Trends Nigeria (blog), October 8, 2009, http://webtrendsng.com/blog/nigeria-internet-users-tops-11-million-penetration-now-7-8/.
[5] International Telecommunication Union (ITU), "Percentage of individuals using the Internet, fixed (wired) Internet subscriptions, fixed (wired)-broadband subscriptions," 2011, accessed July 13, 2012, http://www.itu.int/ITU-D/ICTEYE/Indicators/Indicators.aspx#.
[6] Ibid.
[7] Paul Okolo, "Nigeria's Poverty Ratio Rises to 70% of Population, Trust Says," Bloomberg, January 18, 2011, http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-01-18/nigeria-s-poverty-ratio-rises-to-70-of-population-trust-says.html.
[8] "At a Glance: Nigeria—Statistics," United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), last modified March 2, 2010, accessed June 29, 2012, http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/nigeria_statistics.html.
[9] Clara Nwachukwu, "Nigeria maintains lead in generator imports in Africa…," Vanguard Newspaper, January 10, 2011, http://www.vanguardngr.com/2011/01/nigeria-maintains-lead-in-generator-imports-in-africa-%E2%80%A6/.
[10] International Telecommunication Union (ITU), "Percentage of individuals using the Internet, fixed (wired) Internet subscriptions, fixed (wired)-broadband subscriptions," 2011, accessed July 13, 2012, http://www.itu.int/ITU-D/ICTEYE/Indicators/Indicators.aspx#.
[11] "Subscriber Data – Monthly Subscriber Data," Nigerian Communications Commission, accessed June 29, 2012, http://www.ncc.gov.ng/industry-statistics/subscriber-data.html.
[12] International Telecommunication Union (ITU),"Mobile-cellular telephone subscriptions," 2011, accessed July 13, 2012, http://www.itu.int/ITU-D/ICTEYE/Indicators/Indicators.aspx#.
[13] Charlie Fripp, "Mobile Internet Usage Soars in Nigeria," IT News Africa, December 4, 2008, http://www.itnewsafrica.com/?p=1906.
[14] Jayne Augoye, "Why More Internet Users Prefer Mobile Browsers to Desktop," Nigerian Best Forum, November 10, 2011, http://www.nigerianbestforum.com/generaltopics/?p=108283.
[15] Interview with a service provider who requested anonymity, August 2010.
[16] "Our Members," Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria, accessed December 13, 2011, http://www.nixp.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=13&Itemid=13.
[17] "Our Clients," Main One Cable Company, accessed December 23, 2011, http://www.mainonecable.com/our-clients.
[18] "Glo 1 Cable Launches in Ghana," AfricanBrains, April 15, 2011, http://www.africanbrains.net/2011/04/15/glo-1-cable-launches-in-ghana/.
[19] "Nigeria Facebook Statistics," Socialbakers, accessed June 29, 2012, http://www.socialbakers.com/facebook-statistics/nigeria.
[20] "Top Sites in Nigeria," Alexa Web Information, accessed December 4, 2011, http://www.alexa.com/topsites/countries/NG.
[21] "Internet Services," Nigerian Communications Commission, accessed December 31, 2011, http://ncc.gov.ng/component/docman/doc_download/11-internet-services.html.
[22] "Fixed Wireless Access," Nigerian Communications Commission, accessed December 31, 2011, http://ncc.gov.ng/component/docman/doc_download/4-fixed-wireless-access-fwa.html.
[23] "Digital Mobile License," Nigerian Communications Commission, accessed December 31, 2011, http://ncc.gov.ng/component/docman/doc_download/2-digital-mobile-licence-gsm-.html.
[24] "Fixed Wireless Access," Nigerian Communications Commission, accessed December 18, 2011.
[25] "NITEL Board Ratifies Appointment of Chairman: About NITEL," Transcorp, September 24, 2008, http://www.transcorpnigeria.com/corporatecom/archives.php?page=fullstory&nid=60; Betrand Nwankwo and Juliet Alohan, "Nigeria: Transcorp Relinquishes 51 Percent Equity Share in Nitel/Mtel," Leadership, February 26, 2009, http://allafrica.com/stories/200902260498.html.
[26] Camillus Eboh, "New Generation Telecoms Acquires NITEL," Reuters, February 16, 2010, http://234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/Home/5527697-146/new_generation_telecoms_acquires_nitel_.csp.
[27] Camillus Eboh, "Nigeria Cabinet Sacking Delays Nitel sale," Reuters, March 19, 2010, http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSLDE62I0WS20100319.
[28] OpenNet Initiative, "Internet Filtering in Nigeria," October 1, 2009, http://opennet.net/research/profiles/nigeria.
[29] OpenNet Initiative, "Internet Watch Report: The 2007 Presidential Elections in Nigeria," November 2007, http://opennet.net/research/bulletins/014.
[30] Charlie Fripp, "Nigerians angry over Abuja telecom shutdown," IT News Africa, May 31, 2011, http://www.itnewsafrica.com/2011/05/nigeria-angry-over-abuja-mobile-shutdown.
[31] Sokari Ekine, "Nigeria government launches attack against bloggers," Global Voices, June 25, 2009, http://advocacy.globalvoicesonline.org/2009/06/25/nigeria-government-launches-attack-against-bloggers/; "Umaru Yar'adua Regime Launches $5 Million Online War," Sahara Reporters, June 16, 2009, http://www.saharareporters.com/news-page/umaru-yar%E2%80%99adua-regime-launches-5-million-online-war.
[32] The report author is a founding member of the EnoughisEnough Nigeria group (http://www.eienigeria.org).
[33] Remmy Nweke, "Nigeria: Blogging as a Trend in Nigeria," Daily Champion, January 12, 2006, http://allafrica.com/stories/200601120144.html.
[34] 'Gbenga Sesan, "The Nigerian Bloggers' Forum," Oro (blog), September 22, 2005, http://www.gbengasesan.com/blog/?p=10.
[35] The Nigerian Blog Aggregator is available at http://www.nigerianbloggers.com and the Nigerian Weblog Ring at http://nwr.cowblock.net.
[36] "Brutalization of Uzoma Okere," YouTube, November 10, 2008, 1 min., 40 sec., http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHdkyvn41us.
[37] "Uzoma Okere Won N 100 Million," Nigerian Curiosity (blog), January 29, 2010, http://www.nigeriancuriosity.com/2010/01/uzoma-okere-won-n100-mn-video.html.
[38] Judith Asuni and Jacqueline Farris, "Tracking Social Media: The Social Media Tracking Center and the 2011 Nigerian Elections," Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Foundation, 2011, accessed March 31, 2012, http://www.cfr.org/content/publications/attachments/Tracking-Social-Media-COMPLETE-final.pdf.
[39] Ibid., pg. 18.
[40] Peter Vlam, "Social media inspires Nigerian protests," Radio Netherlands, January 12, 2012, http://www.rnw.nl/africa/article/social-media-inspires-nigerian-protests.
[41] For example, the Evidence Act does not provide for the acceptance of digital evidence in court, although an appellate court in Lagos ruled in May 2010 that computer-generated bank statements could be admitted in the graft trial of a former minister. See, Patience Akpuru, "Nigeria: Fani-Kayode Appeal Court Admits Computer Print-Out," Daily Champion, May 28, 2010, http://allafrica.com/stories/201005310338.html.
[42] Karin Karlekar, ed., "Nigeria," in Freedom of the Press 2009 (New York: Freedom House, 2009), //www.freedomhouse.org/inc/content/pubs/pfs/inc_country_detail.cfm?country=7675&year=2009&pf.
[43] The case centered on Buba Bello Jangebe, whose hand was amputated in 2000 as punishment for stealing a cow. See, Imam Imam, "Nigeria: Sharia Judge Bans Amputation Discussion on Facebook, Twitter," This Day, March 24, 2010, http://allafrica.com/stories/201003240460.html; "Civil Right Congress—Nigeria," Facebook page, accessed March 31, 2012, http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=372845616580; Shehu Sani, "CRC Condemns the Amputation of Buba on March 22, 2000," Twitter post, March 30, 2010, http://www.twitter.com/shehusani.
[44] Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Design, Development and Delivery of SIM Card Registration Solution (Abuja: NCC and NIMC, June 15, 2009), http://www.ncc.gov.ng/Headlines/SIM_Registration_RFP.pdf.
[45] "Nigerian regulator will not extend SIM registration deadline," Telecom Paper, September 22, 2011, http://www.telecompaper.com/news/nigerian-regulator-will-not-extend-sim-registration-deadline.
[46] "Federal government to acquire ₦10b gadgets to combat terrorism," Next Newspapers, November 11, 2011, http://234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/Home/5747537-146/story.csp.
[47] "[Town Hall Chat] Nigerian Youth Minister On Twitter @ 3-5pm Today," Tekedia, September 8, 2011, http://tekedia.com/21375/town-hall-chat-nigerian-youth-minister-twitter-35pm-today/.
[48] "8 Journalists Killed in Nigeria Since 1992/Motive Confirmed," Committee to Protect Journalists, accessed August 27, 2010http://www.cpj.org/killed/africa/nigeria/.
[49] Ndesanjo Macha, "Nigerian Blogger Arrested for Sponsoring a 'Guerilla News Agency,'" Global Voices, October 24, 2008, http://globalvoicesonline.org/2008/10/24/nigerian-blogger-arrested-for-sponsoring-a-guerilla-news-agency.
[50] "News Blogger Detained in Nigeria," British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), October 23, 2008, http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/africa/7686119.stm. Sahara Reporters stated that Elendu was not on their staff and had nothing to do with the photos.
[51] Reporters Without Borders, "Nigeria: Online Journalist Emmanuel Emeka Asiwe Freed After One Week," news release, November 18, 2008, http://allafrica.com/stories/200811181177.html.
[52] Ibid.
[53] "Jonathan Government Arrests US -based Newspaper Columnist, Okey Ndibe, At Murtala Mohammed Airport In Lagos," Sahara Reporters, January 8, 2011, http://saharareporters.com/news-page/jonathan-government-arrests-us-based-newspaper-columnist-okey-ndibe-murtala-mohammed-airpo.
[54] "Okey Ndibe's Passport Released," Transparency for Nigeria, January 9, 2011, http://www.transparencyng.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3139:okey-ndibes-passports-released&catid=88:society&Itemid=131.
[55] "Protest Against Wastage At 'Nigeria At 50' Anniversary: Hackers Hijack National Assembly Website," Sahara Reporters, October 2, 2010, http://www.saharareporters.com/news-page/protest-against-wastage-nigeria-50-anniversary-hackers-hijack-national-assembly-website.
[56] Richard Essien, "EFCC & NCC websites hacked," Daily Times, October 29, 2011, http://dailytimes.com.ng/article/efcc-ncc-websites-hacked.


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Creos Luxembourg S.A tag
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Advancing Utility IP Migration Takes Time and Care
This is the third in the three part series looking at how IP, which has been playing an important role in business transformation for some time, now has become critical to the utilities industry as it is leveraging the transformation of communications networks to IP to maximize smart grid deployments. In short, taking full advantage of things like smart metering and big data means to improve usage, real-time information and improved interoperability.
The future of the smart grid has unfolded slowly partially because adoption is more than a technology issue, and because while businesses want reliability, utilities demand it; a cautious IP migration is almost a given. In fact, part of the path to adoption goes through social challenges, not just technology investment.

subset: commoncrawl


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Read the article on Financial Times here
"As motivational speeches go, it was awful. "Just ahead is the Rohtang Pass. It translates as 'road of corpses'. It is lethal: thick mud, sheer drops, landslides, truck drivers crazy through lack of sleep … "
The man speaking, Zander Combe, our guide, wore a T-shirt saying "Extreme Bike Tours". We couldn't say we weren't warned.
I released the clutch, twisted the throttle and nearly got wiped out by a speeding bus. Emblazoned on its back, "Panicker's Travels". I laughed. I'd been on these roads for just 24 hours, but had already seen enough to know that laughter was the only way to survive.
The day before, in Manali, in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, we'd been introduced to our motorcycles for the week-long ride along the Kullu, Lahaul and Spiti valleys, which would take us through the Himalayas, across high-altitude deserts and right up to the Tibetan border.
The bikes were 500cc Royal Enfield Bullets, like those imported from Britain in the late 1940s for the Indian army. They were later adopted as the transport of choice by the hippies who flocked, and still flock, here, seduced by the dream of riding a classic bike across the Himalayas (and, perhaps, by the head-high marijuana bushes that grow along the valley).
Our bikes, although built in India in the early 1990s, with high handlebars, low-slung seat and chrome crash bars, were little changed from the original model. When Combe kickstarted one, a throaty percussive thud, like a volley from a Maxim gun, filled the still Kullu valley air. It was easy to understand Enfield's early slogan: "Made like a gun, goes like a bullet".
Our group – bikers from Britain, Sweden, Germany and South Africa – was given a tour of the bikes. Everything was as you'd expect, apart from the worrying fact that the foot levers operating the gears and back brake were on the "wrong" sides.
"And this", Combe said, pointing to a tiny button, "is the most important thing: the horn. On Indian roads, people don't see you, they hear you. Use it all the time."
We were sent off on a training ride, the road greasy from the end-of-monsoon rain, the cacophony of the bikes joined by a constant "beep, beep".
Within the space of 10 minutes, I'd been attacked by a dog, narrowly avoided being decapitated by a man carrying a ladder (I forgot to beep), nearly shot off the road several times trying to slow down by pressing the gear lever, and skidded down the road trying to miss a troop of large langur monkeys, which are as common as squirrels and entirely indifferent to the highway code.
We set off early the next morning, heading towards the high mountains, along the Kullu, a lush valley of pines, apple orchards and meadows, where the sweet pollen of marijuana hung in the air. Above us, the 70m-high Rahalla falls, crashing down to join the glacial fury of the Beas river below. We climbed, cliffs now flecked with mica, the poplars giving way to banks of wildflowers. The post-monsoon road was missing whole chunks from its edge, as if some giant hand had gone crazy with a pastry-cutter.
We stopped at a dhaba, or truckstop, for some chai and momos, little fried dumplings filled with vegetable curry. I spoke with Combe, 37, who explained that after leaving Exeter University, he'd begun to tread a familiar path – City, settling down – but then struggled. On a trip to India in 2007, he'd bought a Bullet and ridden over the Himalayas. On top of the Khardunga La, the highest road in the world, he'd had his epiphany, and Extreme Bike Tours was born. Now, five years later, he runs guided trips throughout India and Bhutan, but it is the Himalayas, and Enfields, where his heart lies. "In the mountains, it's man and machine against the elements," he said. "And these are proper machines. You hear every moan and groan; they have mood swings. Unless you ride them perfectly, you ain't gonna make it."
We started up the 12km Rohtang climb. Within minutes we had to stop to clear a path through a fall of rocks the size of beachballs. Soon after, we were riding through knee-deep mud, cheek by jowl with rickety, overloaded Tata trucks that slid through the slurry and passed inches from us, forcing us to the edge, with sheer, unguarded drops of hundreds of metres beyond. For the Rohtang is more blancmange than mountain: constantly collapsing, and constantly being shored up by the bulldozers and road gangs breaking rocks with hammers in their battle to keep the pass open for just three months per year.
As we neared 4,000m, the Enfields began to splutter, the altitude playing havoc with the carburetors. And with our lungs too. Every time I stalled, there was a grim battle with the mud, the kickstart and finding enough puff to fire the bike back into life. But the sight of a truck careering towards you focuses the mind.
The Hindi name for the Kullu valley is Kulanthapitha, which means "the end of the habitable world". And there can be few places on earth that mark such a dramatic change in landscape as the top of the Rohtang. From the emerald lushness of the Kullu valley, to the vista of bare, gargantuan, saw-toothed peaks of Lahaul, framed by the peaks of Tibet beyond, all hanging glaciers and snowfields shining in the piercing light.
As we headed down the mountain, it was clear that the Rohtang marked not just a topographical and climatic divide but also an ethnic and religious one. For largely gone now were the Hindu temples and classically Indian faces, replaced by stupas and prayer flags and people with Tibetan features.
We turned off the main Manali-Leh highway and headed up the Lahaul valley, the traffic largely gone now, epic views with every twist of the road. An eagle flew low overhead. The Bullet purred, grateful for the thicker air. I could relate to the mood swings Combe had talked about – and not just with the bike. I pulled ahead of the group, greedy to have this to myself. I was flying now, too fast, the back wheel sliding around the corners on the loose gravel, feeling invincible, me and the bike like old dancing partners. I patted the petrol tank, as you might a horse.
There was a rock, then a crack, and I was airborne, the Bullet corkscrewing gracefully. And time slowed, as it does, before accelerating to dizzying speed as my body and helmet smashed along the rocks, and the world was reduced to just sickening noise – breaking metal and glass – and then profound, sepulchral silence, followed by one thought: was I dead?
Unless angels rode motorbikes, then no, because I could hear the Enfields coming up the valley. I looked at the bike. Petrol was pouring out of a gash in the tank. The broken headlamp looked like an eye socket. The forks and handlebars were twisted, the crashbars crumpled. The bike had come to a halt inches from the cliff edge. My right side started to numb from a ruptured shoulder and cracked elbow. There's a saying that driving a car is like watching a movie, while riding a bike is like being in one. As I climbed into the support van, I wasn't sure this was a movie I wanted to be in any more.
That night, we camped high in a remote valley. Chickens were killed for supper. The inky sky filled with stars. A fire was lit, whisky poured, stories told. The laughing started. It hurt to laugh, but I don't think I'd ever felt more alive.
By next morning, the support crew had patched up the Bullet. "Any other bike would have been a write-off," Combe said. "But with an Enfield, all you need is a hammer."
I was terrified but fuelled with Diclofenac and wounded pride, I rode on, tentatively, behind the group, the battered bike strange and heavy under me. We rode across narrow, rickety wooden bridges and through glacial rivers whose rocks were as slippery as ice.
For the next few days we rode over the Kunzam Pass, at 4,551m, topped with an ancient chorten (a Buddhist monument), and encircled by glaciers. Then into the remote Spiti valley – off-limits to foreigners until as recently as 1992 – a vast high-altitude canyon reminiscent of Arizona or Utah, the only signs of human life the odd, lonely monastery.
We visited the 12th-century Ki Gompa, sitting atop a conical hillock, encircled by raptors, so perfect a Tibetan monastery it was almost a cliché. As I approached, a dozen young novices in vermillion robes ran alongside the Bullet, patting me as if I was on fire. Then on to Kibber, at 4,205m, one of the highest and remotest villages on earth, where a hundred or so Spitian mud and timber houses clung to the mountainside surrounded by lush green barley terraces.
After a week's riding, there was just one final obstacle: getting back down the Rohtang. As we approached, we could see thick angry clouds sitting on top of the pass. We were engulfed by the white, the magical, secret world of the Lahaul and Spiti valleys disappearing behind us.
If anything, the Rohtang had deteriorated in the week we'd been away. The mud was thicker, the rockfalls blocking the road more frequent, the tangle of trucks and buses even more chaotic.
My handlebars worked loose with the jolting, so now it was like riding a railway pump truck. Combe pulled alongside. "You want to get into the van?"
I looked down at the battered bike, with its dented petrol tank, bent crash bars and smashed headlamp. And I looked down at my torn riding suit. I felt my shoulder ache, and my elbow too. There'd been a price to pay but it only made the whole insane adventure seem all the more glorious.
I patted the bike on the tank again. And laughed.
"We're fine," I said. "Just fine."
Mike Carter is the author of 'Uneasy Rider' (Ebury, 2009)"


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A New Twist
This story appears in the May 1997 issue of Entrepreneur. Subscribe »
With the turn of the century just around the corner, Dunkin' Donuts is taking great strides toward modernizing its image. "We made a strategic decision to change our focus from being the No. 1 doughnut chain in the U.S. to being America's best coffee and baked goods retailer," explains Will Kussell, president of the 46-year-old franchisor based in Randolph, Massachusetts.
The systemwide changes, which encompass everything from a more contemporary store design and layout to a wider product selection and adjustments in store operations, are already reflected in five prototype stores across the nation. Within the next three to five years, Kussell expects all Dunkin' Donuts' 3,400 U.S. units to follow suit.
"When you walk into our new store," Kussell explains, "there's a very contemporary, warm feeling that is more like a neighborhood coffee shop than a traditional doughnut shop."
The company's first strategic changes occurred two years ago when Dunkin' Donuts rolled out a line of flavored coffees and low-fat muffins at many of its establishments. And with bagels now sharing the menu in 1,700 locations, the company's emphasis on the overall bakery experience will ensure consumers know Dunkin' Donuts is no longer just a doughnut shop. "We feel we are uniquely positioned to deliver great coffee and great baked goods," says Kussell. "No one else delivers [these products] like we do."
With Honors
Porcelain refinishing opportunity Kott Koatings Inc. made history in December when it became the first business opportunity to receive the U.S. Department of Commerce's highest honor for American exporters.
The Foothill Ranch, California-based company was one of six U.S. firms given the president's "E" Award for Excellence in Exporting. Established in the 1960s by President Kennedy, the award recognizes American companies' outstanding achievements in global markets and contributions to the U.S. economy.
Kott Koatings measures up to that standard: Founded in 1953 by John T. Kott, the family-owned business first took its concept across borders in 1989 and found such great success that today its licensees have entered no less than 40 countries. Vice president John M. Kott says he is "extremely thrilled" to receive the award and especially to be the first business opportunity so honored. "The president is coming to realize that [business opportunities are] a very valuable export," says Kott.
Former U.S. Secretary of Commerce Mickey Kantor (pictured, center) presented the "E" Awards to recipients at an awards ceremony held at the Department of Commerce in Washington, DC.
Packing Up
By Janean Chun
Ending a controversy that had mail and parcel franchises up in arms (see"Franchise News," October 1996), the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) recently announced it would discontinue its Pack and Send services.
Many franchisors and franchisees in the industry perceived the Pack and Send services, which offered many of the same products as mail and parcel stores at lower prices, as direct competition from a government agency. Yet it wasn't the outcry that halted the USPS' plans. "It was purely a legal issue," says Rachel Southworth, executive director of the Coalition Against Unfair USPS Competition. "The Postal Rate Commission [PRC] determined that Pack and Send is indeed a postal service, and if the USPS wants to offer the service, it has to go through the proper channels and submit a rate case, just as it does with postage stamps, money orders and everything else it offers. It was skirting the authority of the PRC."
Rather than file a rate case, the USPS decided to drop the service, which had been in the test stage. "There is no plan at this time to reinstate that product line," says Bil Paul of the USPS.
"We were pleased with the decision," says Southworth. "But we have to temper our enthusiasm with a dose of reality. If at any time the Postal Service decides it wants to offer Pack and Send again, it can simply take it to the PRC for a rate. It's that easy."
Because this possibility looms, the Coalition Against Unfair USPS Competition continues to pursue legislation limiting the Postal Service from providing any commercial services that it did not offer nationwide prior to January 1, 1994. The legislation "would take [the USPS] out of the business permanently," says Southworth. "[The recent announcement by the Postal Service] is a victory for now, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's over for good."
Back To School
By Lourdes Aguila
Interested in attending The Franchise Center's Franchise Management Certificate Program at the University of Texas, El Paso? For entrepreneurs who make the grade, three scholarship programs are available. Two of the scholarships cover the cost of the four-week certificate program, in which seasoned professionals and franchisees teach what it takes to start your own business or franchise. The third focuses on shorter seminars covering various business-related topics.
*The Referral Pool Inc. Scholarship: This $650 scholarship, established in 1995 by program alumni Joe Prati III and Martha I. Garcia, is given annually to individuals who want to attend the four-week certificate program.
*The Bank of the West Scholarship: New this year, this $650 scholarship (given at least once per year) offered by Bank of the West will go to an individual from the El Paso region planning to attend the four-week session.
*The Dr. David and Carolyn Gough Scholarship: Center director Carolyn Gough and husband David established this $825 scholarship for individuals interested in attending the center's two-and-a-half-day seminar.
The seminar covers topics such as business plans, franchise law, site selection and marketing, and includes presentations by accountants, franchise owners and lawyers. Applicants must show financial need and have a history of academic excellence.
Deadlines for application vary; for more information, call (915) 747-7730.
Buyer's Market
By Holly Celeste Fisk
It's an online shopping mall . . . but it's the stores that are for sale, not what's in them. Welcome to the Business Resale Network, an online mecca for those looking to buy an existing business.
Since its unveiling last New Year's Eve, the site has averaged nearly 1,000 searches per day of the 2,500 businesses it lists for sale across the country. Searches can be made by business category, geographical area or list price.
"Our goal is to be the largest online listing of businesses for sale in the United States," says Gary Gardner, publisher of Franchise Update Publications, partner with Entrepreneur in operating the site.
Gardner hopes to have between 7,000 and 10,000 businesses listed by June. And if all goes well, sites for Canada and other foreign countries are sure to follow.
To browse the list of businesses for sale by owners, brokers, franchisors and franchisees free of charge, access the site at (http://www.entrepreneurmag.com), or call (888) BRN-2400.
Coffee Shop
Wake up and smell the opportunity: JC Java is offering would-be franchisees the chance to get in on the coffee craze by opening units in JC Penney department stores west of the Mississippi.
The innovative concept was introduced in a Las Vegas JC Penney store in December. Although the prototype store is thus far run by The Coffee Group, the Costa Mesa, California, developer of specialty coffee franchises that will execute the master licensing and individual sales of JC Java outlets, all 12 outlets expected to open by midsummer are intended to be sold to franchisees.
"We're specifically looking for owner/operators, and we'll deal with one operator in each region," says Greg Casserly, president of The Coffee Group.
For franchisees, the demitasse of benefits runneth over: "Our contract with JC Penney," says Casserly, "provides franchisees with instant national identity and distribution, high-visibility locations with built-in business, and rents that are significantly below market [rates]."
JC Penney hopes the new outlets will revive thirsty customers for more shopping. "If the customer has to leave to be refreshed," points out Casserly, "[JC Penney] loses them."
Contact Sources
Business Resale Network, P.O. Box 20547, San Jose, CA 95160, (888) BRN-2400;
Coalition Against Unfair USPS Competition, 3830 Valley Center Dr., #705-314, San Diego, CA 92130, (619) 623-1773;
The Coffee Group, 151 Kalmus Dr., Ste. H4, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, (888) CAFE-TCG;
Dunkin' Donuts, 14 Pacella Park Dr., Randolph, MA 02368, (617) 961-4020;
The Franchise Center, University of Texas, El Paso, College of Business Administration, El Paso, TX 79968-0545, (800) 687-4512, (915) 747-7730;
Kott Koatings Inc., (714) 770-5055, fax: (714) 770-5101;
U.S. Department of Commerce, (202) 482-3809;
Z Land Inc., (714) 708-8580, email@example.com.


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- Eastwood Setup/Fixturing table
Eastwood Setup/Fixturing table
Eastwood Setup/Fixturing table
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About Eastwood Setup/Fixturing table
Fixturing, set-up table for precision fabrication and welding. 24-inch x 36-inch with 11-gauge steel top. Complete with leg kit; or use on tabletop. Holes are 16 mm with 2-inch spacing. Includes 4 clamps, 8 magnetic rests, 4 position stops, 4 inserts stops, 4 stop bars and 4 threaded adapters for fixturing and securing flat plates, rectangular tubing, square tubing and components.
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VIDEO DOWNLOAD - FanSlam Q&A - August 2003
Highspots presents theFanSlam!August 2003Question and Answer sessions.Eight wrestlers and managerscame together inAugust 2003 to speak about their life, history and future.
Hosted by Bill Apter, former editor for Pro Wrestling Illustrated, WOW Magazine and Total Wrestling.
The question and answer session featured Ricky Steamboat, "Mr. Wonderful" Paul Orndorff, Kevin Von Erich,Bobby "The Brain" Heenan, J.J. Dillon, Devon "Crowbar" Storm, Gary Michael Cappetta, and Tough Enough 3's Scott Chung. Some of the topics of the Q & A were:
- Thoughts on Vince McMahon
- Thoughts on Vince Russo and Eric Bischoff
- Kevin Von Erich discusses the death of his brothers
- Ricky Steamboat discusses his Wrestlemania 3 match with Randy Savage
- Ricky Steamboat discusses his classic matches with Ric Flair
- Thoughts on the WWE brand extension
- Thoughts on the death and sale of WCW
- J.J. Dillion discusses the 4 Horseman and who his favorite was
- Bobby Heenan tells tons of road stories
- Bobby Heenan discusses negatives & positives of WWF and WCW
- Bobby Heenan tells what current wrestler he would have liked to have in the Heenan Family
- Thoughts on the current state of wrestling
- Thoughts on NWA-TNA- Discussion on who is the best wrestler today
- Ricky Steamboat discusses politics and why he never got a WWF Title run
- J.J. Dillion talks about the disorganization of the WCW offices
- Kevin Von Erich talks about what he has been doing for the past 20 years
- Discussion on the death of Miss Elizabeth
- Thoughts on Vince taking over the territory's in the 80's including a surprising revelation about the Von Erichs and Vince McMahon
- Thoughts on the McMahon family being all over WWETV
Average Customer Review: Not yet rated
Write an online review and share your thoughts with others.


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It's hard to sell Earth to anyone who doesn't already get Earth. Dylan Carlson (and friends) create the kind of music that's best prefaced by an introduction from a wide-eyed friend who claims it'll turn your world upside down, and a few confused listens before reaching an epiphany of your own. Herein lies the problem in reviewing a re-issue of a band who didn't just define the niche in which they've nested but actually created it, from the dials of a Sunn amp to the bruised strings of thrumming guitars. To bring out the intangibility of their sound, to excavate and emphasise just why they mean so much without alienating casual readers with cackhanded cliché, is difficult to achieve with any degree of objectivity. It goes without saying therefore, that objectivity is out of the window from here on in, for better or for worse.
Ever since I picked up a copy of Earth 2, I've had a near religious love for everything sullied by Carlson's hands. Earth's vision of extreme music, despite their legions of admiring imitators, remains completely unique in the way it carves such bizarre beauty out of monolithic, monotone bleakness. They are at once metal, and not really metal at all. Their sound is heavy, but the intense humming that swarms over all their pre-reunion records is feather light, and head rush inducing. The standout on this impressively crisp sounding re-issue, 'Ouroboros is Broken', throbs with menacing gongs and low headed pitch black guitars, yet somehow manages to retain something that can only be described as melancholy, the swarm of buzzing feedback lifting slablike riffs to vertigo-inducing heights. Where followers such as Sunn O))) are cold, icy even, Earth's sound is somehow warm and rich in colourful tone.
It's tempting to pin such accolades on Carlson and refer to his narcotic past: there's no denying that whatever he was clawing for all those years ago musically was influenced by the uppers and downers coursing usually simultaneously through his veins. But there's more to it than that, and it's more than drugs that fuelled the perfection of a guitar tone that's unlike anything else quite achieved. Granted, that heavy/light feel would reach its height for Earth 2, but it's present here too: the crunching density of the opening 'Bureacratic Desire for Revenge' couplet, trudging ever onwards, is as powerful as most of Earth 2 in all except sheer endurance.
The elements found here even signpost Earth's latest turn towards something more cinematic and swallowable. Discounting that overwhelming feel of size that characterises Earth's records, 'Geometry of Murder' is as close as Carlson comes to a breakneck rock song, midtempo percussion careering over blues laden guitars that strangely bring to mind the whiskey soaked codas of The Bees Made Honey… and Thin Lizzy all at once. Even in their most primordial phase, Earth might have even sounded more adventurous than later releases, and whilst it's the more recognisable first half of the record (made up of Extra Capsular Extraction) which is the brightest, the early experimentations that form the latter half are enthralling. The rawness is not lost despite an incredibly capable re-master which ekes and boosts every hum, throb and hiss from the original tapes, making this a package well worth owning for those lucky enough to already have the originals in their hands. 'Divine and Bright' is an atypically grungy midtempo ballad, as expected from a track featuring that famous Nirvana member on bleary eyed vocal. But even Kurt is outshone by a pulsingly industrial remastered 'German Dental Work', martial drum machine and that trademark ebb and throb of bass creating something that brings to mind Big Black and Black Sabbath.
It's pretty unlikely that anyone who doesn't already hold Earth's glacial moves in high regard is going to pick up an album which consists of the band's first two EPs for Sub Pop, re-mastered and shoved end to end on a compact disc or double vinyl. Yet still, it's worth attempting to do more than preach to the converted, because this collection is full of the intangibly sorrowful, deeply soulful haze of feedback and label baiting extremity that has always set them far apart. A Bureaucratic Desire For Extra-Capsular Extraction is yet more proof that Earth were, and indeed still are, vitally different to so much of what's come before them, after them and even surrounded them.
9Philip Bloomfield's Score


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Thursday, April 21, 2011
Maria Zannini's True Believers
I've always been interested in fusing genres - and hopefully getting the both of best worlds in the process. On my blog, the genres are usually fantasy and science fiction, combined like the scientist in The Fly. But when I read that Maria Zannini had released a science fiction romance, I had to find out more.
Mostly because I enjoy both those genres, but couldn't recall reading more than one or two novels which spanned them both. Today Maria discusses some of the pleasures and pitfalls of this sub-genre, and does it with her trademark humor, attention to detail and solid background. Please give her a warm welcome - and be sure to check out True Believers. You'll see why after the interview.
1. Science fiction romance doesn't seem to be as popular as fantasy/paranormal romance. What are your thoughts on why this might be?
Maria : The 'science' part of fiction probably conjures dry, dusty data of things we'd rather forget from our high school physics lab. I'm not an egghead at all so I can commiserate with people who are afraid of a story coming off as stuffy and filled with technical jargon.
I liken SFR novels to movies like Star Trek or Avatar. You can tell a good story and still have a lot of exciting techy stuff happening in the background. We need more smart science fiction that can pull you into a techy world without boring you to tears. I remember watching the original Star Trek as a child. It was a fantastical world that was out of our reach. It was exciting and fascinating. We need to focus more on the awe and bring people back to the future. (Pardon the pun.)
2. What ways could authors use science fiction (setting/technology/aliens) to enhance romance? Sadly, the only thing that came to mind right away for me was sex in zero-gravity.
Maria : Is there anything sexier than a really smart hero or heroine who can get out of jams with nothing more than his wits? And let's not forget the anatomically enhanced aliens who can rock your world just by getting naked. More than a few reviewers have mentioned True Believers' hero, Taelen Jessit's…ahem…extra man parts. …I can't imagine why that tickled people so. :grin:
My favorite way to enhance romance is immersing the reader in a culture truly alien from our own. What might be normal for them would be totally foreign to us, and that can prove deliciously naughty and nice.
3. What clichés would you suggest writers be aware of when writing SF romance?
Maria :• If you write aliens, make them physiologically believable. Pointy ears, wings, and gills ought to have a physical purpose for existing rather than serve as window dressing.
• Never forget that SFR is about relationships first.
• Every story doesn't have to be epic. Sometimes it's enough that the hero and heroine save the dog instead of the world.
4. What kind of scientific research did you need to do for your novel True Believers?
Maria : I am a conspiracy theory junkie so I used existing conspiracy theories to build the science necessary for True Believers. For example, HAARP (High Frequency Active Auroral Research Program ) is an existing technology that uses high powered radio transmissions. This was the basis of the com-web in the story.
The AIs (artificial intelligences) were born from conversations I had with a computer scientist who once worked for NASA. I was shocked at what computers were capable of doing, so it wasn't much of a leap to give my AIs personality and free will.
The research was more fun than I expected. It was also a bit scary. Society has progressed at an alarming rate this past half century. It makes you wonder where we'll be in the next fifty years. I am hoping life will imitate art, and if that's the case, we have our work cut out for us.
Thanks for your detailed and intriguing (extra man parts?) answers, Maria, and all the best with True Believers!
Bio: Maria Zannini used to save the world from bad advertising, but now she spend her time wrangling chickens and fighting for a piece of the bed against dogs of epic proportions. Occasionally, she writes novels.
Buy True Believers before April 30 and get an additional 15% discount. Just use coupon code BESTOFCARINA at Checkout. Offer is valid until April 30, 2011, 11:59 p.m. EDT.
My blog
19 comments:
- Renee Miller said...
I loved Jessup's extra man parts...kind of wish we'd have an alien invasion from his planet.
What? Oh yes, the book. What I really enjoyed about Maria's writing (in this novel particularly) is that I didn't feel I was reading Science Fiction or Romance. It didn't 'feel' like genre fiction at all. What I read was an awesome story with memorable characters, exactly as it should be.
- April 21, 2011 at 8:22 AM
- Linda Leszczuk said...
I loved True Believers. Characters to care about and root for set in a fascinating new world. I highly recommend it.
- April 21, 2011 at 8:54 AM
- Maria Zannini said...
Renee: Thank you! That's one of the nicest compliments I've ever had. You made my day!
- April 21, 2011 at 8:55 AM
- Maria Zannini said...
Linda: My characters cared about you too. :grin: Thank you. I'm blushing.
- April 21, 2011 at 8:56 AM
- Maria Zannini said...
Marian: I'm sorry I didn't get on earlier. Just as I signed on, I lost my internet again. I think it was just a glitch though.
Anyway, THANK YOU! for letting me come on today. It's always a pleasure to visit your blog. You always have such interesting topics and I enjoy reading the comments that follow.
- April 21, 2011 at 8:58 AM
- Marian Perera said...
Hi Maria!
It's good to see you back. And even better to have that highly entertaining interview up! You're always welcome here. :)
I have my last final exam today, so I'm off to campus now, but I'll drop ni again after that.
- April 21, 2011 at 9:30 AM
- Cate Masters said...
Fun interview ladies! Love love love Avatar. And True Believers too! Strong, vivid characters and intriguing setting. If you haven't grabbed a copy, I highly recommend you do.
- April 21, 2011 at 8:03 PM
- Maria Zannini said...
Cate: I liked the romance in Avatar. I thought the politics was a little heavy handed. Not that I wouldn't watch it again--and again. :grin:
- April 21, 2011 at 9:58 PM
- Angelina Rain said...
Great interview. A few years ago I've never heard of SFR, and now it's one of the most popular romance sub –genres. Every publisher is seeking more and more of them. I really enjoyed True Believers and can't wait to read some more SFR.
- April 21, 2011 at 10:23 PM
- Maria Zannini said...
Angelina: I remember back when we had to buy SFR under the table. LOL We were so outcast. I'm glad we're allowed to get out of the closet now.
- April 21, 2011 at 10:33 PM
- Sherri said...
Wonderful interview. I LOVED True Believers and I have to agree with Renee, the story didn't come across as genre fiction. It's an amazing read, with memorable characters, and a story I see myself returning to again.
- April 22, 2011 at 11:51 AM
- Maria Zannini said...
Sherri: Thank you! I was never aware people felt that way. It's a true compliment.
Thanks again.
- April 22, 2011 at 3:28 PM
- Unknown said...
Awesome interview - thank you.
I've read True Believers and loved it. If you haven't, get it now!
Ellie Garratt
- April 22, 2011 at 3:38 PM
- Cathy in AK said...
True Believers is in my TBR queue and I'm anxious to read it. I have read only a few alien-based SFR stories, and none with..ahem...appendages. I'm sure I'll be pleasantly surprised :)
- April 22, 2011 at 5:26 PM
- Maria Zannini said...
Ellie: I'm shocked by all the good people who have not only stopped by but read the book. I'm feeling slightly dumbstruck.
- April 22, 2011 at 8:36 PM
- Maria Zannini said...
Cathy: Believe it or not, the appendages were never supposed to be a big deal. I never thought people would even remember them.
- April 22, 2011 at 8:37 PM
- Linda Leszczuk said...
Uh huh. *grin*
- April 22, 2011 at 8:42 PM
- Jayne said...
Great interview! I loved Maria's comment about the hero and heroine can save the dog instead of the world - so many sci-fi books think the story has to be epic - but you are so right that the relationship has to come first.
Extra man parts?!! Blimey - am intrigued!
- April 25, 2011 at 6:11 AM
- Maria Zannini said...
Jayne: You saucy girl! Nice to see you here. Thanks for coming by.
- April 25, 2011 at 7:39 AM


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As many of you know, I was an innkeeper for 12 years and enjoyed every minutes of it. I can't tell you how many times guest would visit and say they always wanted a Bed and Breakfast or when I retire I want to buy a B & B? I've heard countless innkeepers from all over say that their guests express the same sentiment. The majority of innkeepers are great people who love to serve and truly enjoy what they do everyday.
When I visit a new B & B I really like the décor of, I usually reflect on how much fun that must have been to create something new and fun that other people would enjoy. I ask aspiring innkeepers all the time to make sure they want to be innkeepers and not just decorators, even though both are lots of fun.
If you are interested in becoming an innkeeper and learning more from the professionals, the Florida Bed and Breakfast Inns and Bed and Breakfast Consultant Service is sponsoring an Aspiring Innkeeper Workshop in West Palm Beach, Florida on July 17 – 19, 2015. You'll be staying at a luxury Bed and Breakfast and all accommodations and meals are included. Read More


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One of the few non-kitchen related tasks during the holidays involves prepping the dining room table with inserts or expansions to accomodate extra guests. But why wrestle with heavy slabs of lumber when this lightweight table made from carbon fibre, kevlar, and titanium can be set up and lifted by a single person? Oh, that's right, it costs £42,640.
The Panther (yeah, the Panther) folds away flat in its own box and assembles in just minutes, so it really is the perfect way to expand your dining capacity during a hosting emergency. Or, you could also just limit the number of people you invite and use that money to buy them all a nice used car as a parting gift. That's another brilliant way to piss away such a ludicrous sum.


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Devin Patrick Kelley: What we know about the Texas church shooting suspect
The suspect who opened fire inside a South Texas church has been identified as 26-year-old Devin Patrick Kelley, law enforcement sources tell CBS News. He has a residence in New Braunfels, Texas, which is about a 35 mile drive from where the attack took place in Sutherland Springs.
The shooting left at least 26 people dead and 20 others injured in what Texas Gov. Greg Abbott described as the worst mass shooting in his state's history.
On Sunday night, authorities only identified the suspect as a young white male. They said he was dressed in all black and tactical gear when he opened fire at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs.
After a car chase with police, the suspect was shot and declared dead. It's unclear if the suspect shot himself or if he was killed by police.
Kelley is a former U.S. Air Force member who served from 2010 to 2014. He was dishonorably discharged and court martialed in May 2014, CBS News has learned.
Air Force spokesperson Ann Stefanek told The Associated Press that records show Kelley served in Logistics Readiness at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico from 2010 until his discharge. The circumstances under which he left the service were not immediately available.
The Pentagon told the AP that Kelley was an airman "at one point," but did not provide additional details.
Devin Patrick Kelley
Officials say the suspect lived in a San Antonio suburb and doesn't appear to be linked to any organized terrorist groups. CBS News has learned Kelley has a wife named Danielle Lee Shields.
Investigators will look at his social media posts made in the days prior to Sunday's attack — including one that appeared to display an AR-15 semiautomatic weapon. Kelley's date of birth is listed as Feb. 21, 1991.
No motive has been declared as the investigation continues.


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Duplin County, North Carolina — A Vintage Business Location.
Visitors and newcomers to Duplin County are invariably surprised by what they find in this quiet corner of eastern North Carolina — namely, the largest winery in the southeastern United States, and the largest in the world producing wine from the muscadine grape.
But then, Duplin County is full of surprises. Known for its agricultural leadership, our County has quietly emerged as a destination for manufacturing and distribution companies, and even sits in the middle of a region that's earning a global reputation in life sciences.
We invite you to explore our site and learn more about this vintage business location. And how Duplin County, North Carolina can help your company sample the sweet taste of success.


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Hey guys!
We are giving away a signed copy of Black Dawn by RACHEL CAINE
Follow us via Google Friend Connect or subscribe to us for a chance to win! More information will be released soon.
This will be unlocked once we reach 100 on Google Friend Connect!
Only 15 more to go!


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The role of genetics versus training in determining athletic performance has been long debated, and over time, theories tend to swing from one direction to another.
Malcolm Gladwell's 2008 book Outliers has a chapter dedicated to the "10,000 hour rule" which describes a group of musicians and their career potential, drawing the conclusion that those who practiced the most had the greatest potential to become world-class soloists, while those that practiced the least, did not. Innate talent was thought to be less important than preparation, and the magic number for practice was determined to be 10,000 hours, or about 20 hours a week over a decade. Since the book was published, the 10,000 hour rule has been popularly applied to just about everything, with many making the case that training alone is what separates the best from the rest of the pack. It is thought-provoking, but does this apply to distance running, a much more physical pursuit than music?
Running is a complex process with many well-known physiological factors influencing running performance including VO2 max (the volume of oxygen consumed at max effort), lactate threshold (the highest steady exercise effort that an athlete can maintain for a long period of time), muscle fiber make up (the composition of fast and slow twitch muscles), and running economy (the more economical or efficient you are as a runner, the less oxygen you need.) A runner's biomechanics also influence performance and injury rate, and include running gait, and how the hip, knee, and ankle flexes, and their overall muscle strength. How the body stores and uses glycogen for energy also influences endurance running. Some of these factors are finite and can't be changed, such as muscle fiber makeup, others can be altered through training up to a certain level, such as glycogen storage, VO2max, running gait, and muscle strength.
It is reasonable to expect that with more training, you will get better, or to use the old adage 'practice makes perfect.' But if you have ever run with a group of people over a period of time, you clearly see that not everyone improves at the same rate, some runners get better quickly, others, with the same training, lag behind. Researchers refer to this phenomenonas exercise 'high or low responders'; a 2010 study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology looking at aerobic capacity found that approximately 20 percent of the research group were low responders, who only marginally improved VO2 max aftersix weeks of intense endurance training. The average VO2 max improvement in the study was 14 percent, with a 27.5 percent improvement for high responders; the researchers also identified a series of 29 genes that predicted which test subjects would be low or high responders. This shows that athletes following the same training plan may not respond and improve the same way, so total time spent training won't necessarily predict success.
How often a runner becomes injured affects training levels and ultimately, performance; clearly, if you are injured often, you cannot put in the training time. A local elite runner was pulled into a conversation a group of us were having about preventing running injuries and she said that she basically was never sore, and did not get injured, so she really didn't have any tips to offer. She is a fast and efficient runner whose body holds up well to the demands of training, but this is not the case for most runners, with yearly injury rates when the injury is serious enough to reduce or stop training of between 25 percent and 65 percent.
Given the complexity of factors that influence endurance running above and beyond training, (and we haven't even touched on the psychological factors such as competitiveness, dedication, and the ability to withstand pain which may all have some genetic basis,)it looks like the 10,000 hour rule is not holding up. Saying that top performance is only related to talent or genetics is an incorrect assessment of the high-performing runner who trains hard to get to that level; similarly, saying it is all in the training discounts the athlete who trains hard and still isn't a top performer; instead, it is the interplay of both training and genetics that form an athlete. And that's what keeps running and competing interesting; since most of us don't know what our training or genetic 'ceiling' is, we can keep working at finding our own personal bests. We can all agree that the journey is the best part.
To read the full Journal of Applied Physiology article, 'Using molecular classification to predict gains in maximal aerobic capacity following endurance exercise training in humans', see: http://jap.physiology.org/content/108/6/1487.full
Running Notes: On Sept. 29 the first Project Safety Association 5K takes place in Portsmouth, the 20th NH Marathon, Half and 10K in Bristol; Sept. 30, the 5thSmuttynose Rockfest Marathon and Half are in Hampton and the 35th Clarence DeMar Marathon in Keene. Good luck runners, enjoy your taper week.
Nancy Eckerson writes about running for Foster's Sunday Citizen. You can reach her at firstname.lastname@example.com.
Nancy Eckerson: Is an athlete born or made?
The role of genetics versus training in determining athletic performance has been long debated, and over time, theories tend to swing from one direction to another.


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Guides A-Z
Guide describing how to air seal electrical wiring throughout a home.
Guide describing how to conduct a home performance assessment before beginning retrofit projects in existing homes.
Guide with information about how to install flashing integrated with air and water control layers around piping, vents, and other wall penetrations as part of an exterior wall retrofit.


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A Most Fascinating Author, Laura Elvebak, Visits With Mike Angley
My guest today is quite an impressive woman! Laura Elvebak is the author of the Niki Alexander mystery series. Laura was born in North Dakota, but raised in Los Angeles and San Francisco. She draws from her nomad kind of existence in various cities throughout Baja California, New York, Florida, New Jersey and Pennsylvania before settling in Houston with her three children, now grown. Along the way, she studied writing at UCLA, USC, Chaffey Community College, and Rice University. Laura optioned three screenplays to a production company and a fourth script placed second in the Empire Screenwriting Contest. Laura also wrote, directed and acted in a play staged in Houston. She is a member of The Final Twist Writers, Sisters-In-Crime and Mystery Writers of America. Whew! That's quite a list of accomplishments. Read More


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On thin ice: Veteran ice climber shares his tips for the sport
One of the many ways to spend time outdoors during winter in Lake Tahoe
Ask a veteran ice climber about ice climbing Lake Tahoe, and the words "small," "scattered" and even "awful" might come up. But while South Lake Tahoe may not be an ice-climbing Mecca, the South Shore winter climbing scene is growing as more snow sports enthusiasts head to the backcountry. Ice climbing is just another of the many winter activities in Lake Tahoe.
People just don't move to Tahoe for the ice, South Shore climber Bryce Stath said. Stath started ice climbing in Alaska almost a decade ago before moving to South Lake Tahoe last year.
"The Sierras don't produce ice like the other mountain ranges, but something is better than nothing. We go ice climbing when the skiing is marginal," Stath said.
Epic powder days can make for terrible ice climbing. Feet of snow covers routes and blocks access to the climbs, and the length and quality of the ice season varies drastically each winter as temperatures fluctuate. Novices be warned — ice climbing in Tahoe often involves thin ice and lots of mixed terrain, according to Stath.
Yet Stath said the number of strong rock climbers who want to test their skills on the ice is growing. Each year more people ask him to take them up in the winter, but with more climbers comes more risk.
"Being above people on ice is really dangerous. You have to be really mindful of where people are. And the equipment is very spiky and pointy. You just don't want to fall. It's such a different medium than rock. Ice can be really brittle," Stath said.
The most important lesson a beginning ice climber can learn when beginning to learn how to ice climb is how to read the quality of the ice, a level of experience that can take years to master, longtime climber Karl Wallischeck said.
Wallischeck began ice climbing 35 years ago on the East Coast, where the winter climbing seasons are long and the ice plentiful. He kept ice climbing after he moved to Tahoe in 1987, but the limited terrain, "ephemeral" conditions and two full-time jobs shortened his season.
Wallischeck, who works as both a lieutenant for the Meeks Bay Fire Protection District and as a ski patroller at Alpine Meadows Ski Resort, has seen the number of winter sports enthusiasts venturing into the backcountry, and onto the ice, rise. And the consequences of getting in over your head are severe, he said.
A 23-year-old El Cerrito man fell 125 feet to his death a year ago when he was ice climbing at Cascade Falls. Wallischeck said it's the only fatality that he knows of associated with the winter sport in Tahoe, but it's indicative of the level of experience needed to tackle even beginner routes.
Cascade and Eagle falls and other routes in Emerald Bay typically draw many novice climbers. The climbs are easy to access and find, South Shore climber Jenna Stevens said.
Like Stath and Wallischeck, Stevens didn't get her ice-climbing start in Tahoe. She honed her skills in Ouray, Colo., home of the biggest ice festival in North America.
"In those times that we're out there, reality just kind of disappears. It's just you and nature. It's become a way of life for us," Stevens said.
Stevens moved to the South Shore in May. Searching for ice climbing crags in the area is a hit-or-miss endeavor, and she'll often go out to survey routes without climbing them. Stevens hasn't found much data about good climbs around Tahoe, and there isn't a cohesive ice-climbing community to fill in those information gaps.
"Ice climbers seem to be a little more scarce. A lot of people are still kind of hesitant to get out there are try it," she said.
The best way for beginners to leap into the sport is to find an experienced partner who's willing to act as a mentor, Stevens said. The American Alpine Club annual ice climbing weekend set to take place Jan. 25-27 this year at Coldstream Canyon in Truckee, Calif., is another good introduction to the sport.
Stevens hopes that the ice-climbing community will come together as more people augment its ranks. It would be helpful to get more information about routes into the mainstream even if there isn't a lot of ice to publicize, Stevens said.
"People aren't really vocal about where routes are and it's really important for a climbing community to get data out there. It's definitely a challenging activity. Your muscles are going to be really sore, but it's a blast," she said.
Originally published in the March 7, 2013, issue of the Tahoe Daily Tribune and regularly vetted for accuracy.


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Q: I love the look of a fountain but does it provide sufficient aeration for my pond?
John – Wapakoneta, OH
A: Sitting out on the deck and viewing a beautiful fountain display as well as hear that relaxing sound of water is pond enjoyment to us. Having a fountain in your pond is a great way to add tranquility to your home. What more could you ask for?
Many people are drawn to a fountain's show-stopping appeal, but will they aerate a pond as well? The answer to this really depends on a couple factors: the pond's depth and the type of fountain pattern.
Pond Depth: Fountains can be great aerators when the pond has less than 6′ of depth. The reason for this is because the best way to aerate is to circulate the whole body of water at the same time. A fountain will only draw water from the top of the water column, which is water that already contains oxygen from the air to water oxygen transfer. The pond's bottom will remain untouched if it is deeper than 6′. If your pond is less than 6′ deep, then all you have to worry about is the spray pattern.
Fountain Spray Pattern: The spray pattern of a fountain makes a huge difference in how much aeration is produced. Usually the more decorative the spray pattern, the less likely it is to aerate your pond properly. This is because more energy is spent on creating the decorative pattern than there is moving the water. The best spray pattern to use for a fountain is a "V" patterned fountain like the Kasco VFX series fountain.
Because of the varying fountain choices there are some rules of thumb to go by. When using a fountain for aeration purposes, you want around 1.5HP per acre. If using a fountain only for decoration, go for 1 HP per acre.
If your pond is deeper than 6′ of depth, than the best method of aeration is an Airmax® Aeration System. The Airmax® Aeration System will pump air to the diffuser plate located at the bottom of the pond, and the resulting column of rising bubbles lifts and aerates the water. By starting from the bottom, this will ensure that the whole body of water is properly circulated as well as aerated. Airmax® Aeration Systems have lower operating costs than running a fountain 24-7.
Pond Talk: What type of aeration system do you have?
Filed under: Aeration, Fountain, Pond & Lake | Tagged: airmax, airmax aeration, fountain aeration, Kasco, kasco fountain, will a fountain aerate my pond |


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On April 2, Arvest Bank announced the beginning of its seventh annual 1 Million Meals campaign, which challenges bank associates, customers and community members to fight hunger in the more than 120 communities the bank serves by providing at least one million meals to those in need. Today, the bank announced the campaign has exceeded 500,000 meals, or halfway to its goal.
Arvest branches throughout Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma have been participating in this initiative by collecting nonperishable food items and monetary donations. These efforts will continue through June 2, with the intention of reaching one million meals donated to the local communities Arvest serves in time for summer, when many schoolchildren do not have access to meals they ordinarily receive at school, and when many of the bank's food partners face fundraising challenges.
Every dollar raised through 1 Million Meals provides the equivalent of five meals for local, hungry families.
For more information about 1 Million Meals, visit arvest.com/millionmeals.
Submitted questions will be answered by an Arvest banker and may appear on the Arvest Blog.
All Arvest banks are Equal Housing Lenders and Member FDIC.
Investment products and services are provided by Arvest Investments, Inc., doing business as Arvest Asset Management, member FINRA/SIPC, an SEC registered investment adviser and a subsidiary of Arvest Bank. Trust services are provided by Arvest Bank. Insurance products are made available through Arvest Insurance, Inc., which is registered as an insurance agency. Insurance products are marketed through Arvest Insurance, Inc., but are underwritten by insurance companies.
Securities and Insurance Products: Not Insured by FDIC or any Federal Government Agency, May Lose Value, Not a Deposit of or Guaranteed by a Bank or any Bank Affiliate.


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Most Product Leave Our Warehouse Within 24 Hours.
We are fully Insured, Licensed and Bonded.
(Most Other Companies Are Not).
In business for over 20 years.
2% discount when paying with e-check.
5 In. Innerspring Mattress; ball bearing rollers; Polypropylene support deck, and automatic leg opening. Available in 30 In., 39 In. and 48 In. Wide.
All Steel Construction | heavy gauge angle steel frame and legs
Commercial Grade Manufactured in the United States from domestically procured and inspected materials. Extra Heavy duty for years of use! 1 In. x 16 gauge zinc plated steel tubing will not rust, pit, peel or discolor


text: Im familiar with the blocking scheme that Scangarello is about to run. Mike Munchak is the best line coach in the league. James is a good pickup at RT. I hear that the coaching staff is confident with McGovern at Center. How do you guys feel about the Guard spots? Also, does the coaching staff seem sold on Bolles at LT? He needs work and the potential is there, but I gotta tell you. Ive been watching tape of the upcoming draft prospects and Andre Dillard looks like he would be the perfect LT for the blocking scheme Denver will run. Is there any chance they either take Dillard at 10 or trade down to take him between 10-20, and work a trade for Bolles? Or keep Bolles for depth?


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Name Contest
Name for gaming channel (YouTube)
my name is ****, I'm ** years old from *****.
I want to start a new YouTube channel,
The channel will deal mainly with gaming but also freestyle.
I want an original name,
if it's possible I want that the first letter will be: A, D, N, S, V, M, N, W, X or Z.
Amit - Wednesday, January 3, 2018
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Investors are grabbing an entire island in Indonesia to develop a resort, displacing the community and destroying local eco-systems.
Hundreds of families are facing the threat of eviction from the island of Pari in Indonesia in order to possess the whole island for a corporate tourist resort. This pristine 42,5-hectare island has been their home for generations and they have played a key role in protecting its fragile eco-system of mangroves and coral reefs, key to the fight against climate change. Today all of this is under threat but the community of 300 fisherfolk families refuses to give up and are mobilising to save Pulau Pari.
This is their story.
"The mandate generated from the GLF needs to be published and disseminated to the wider audiences and public society".
The peasants in Mangkit Village, North Sumatera, Indonesia can finally sigh a relief when finally the land in the village is officially redistributed by the Government. The state, through the ministry of Agrarian and Spatial / National Land Agency recognises and issues the certificate for the land which once owned by PT Asiatik Company
Civil Society Coalition for the Tenurial Justice and the Indonesian Government are realising its commitment in addressing the land issue and land governance in the country.
ILC Asia opens initiative on the inclusion of Land Watch Asia (LWA) campaign to be contributed in influencing the land policy formulation and implementation through evidence-based advocacy, constructive engagement with governments and regional organisations.
On World Food Day 2018 and the second to the last day of filing of Certificates of Candidacy (COCs), around 300 members from various marginalized sectors and advocacy groups in the Philippines are gathering in front of Palacio del Gobernador, Intramuros, today, October 16, 2018, to send a message to the voters and aspiring politicians—food security over personal interests.


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- Using video lets me coach you wherever you are: I didn't want to limit entries to women who could meet me in person, so using video and uploads or emails makes sense for long-distance learning.
- Using video makes it easy to fit into our busy lives: You're busy, and I'm busy. Emailing me questions and practice by video will make it easy for us to get the coaching fit into our schedules.
- Nobody's looking. Seriously. Despite the great traffic for online video, you only need to look into your webcam/camera/Flip camcorder and talk to me, Denise. No need to play to an audience. Just tell me your top 3 priorities for what you want to accomplish.
- The judging doesn't involve production values. You don't need stylists, a professional-grade camera setup or even makeup. Just talk to me.
- Being able to get on even a short video tells me something....about your willingness to get up in front of an audience or even a coach. Again, no need for perfection here.
Got questions about how to do this? Email them to me at info[at]dontgetcaught[dot]biz or leave them as a comment here on on our Facebook page. Grab a pal to help you get it done! You have until midnight ET July 31 to enter, and I'm hoping you will.


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Swellsworth needed a new other design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 60 designs submitted by 13 freelance designers.
Free Vertical Jump Training
This contest is for the header of a blog that teaches people how to jump higher for free. This blog is actually done by the owner of the Jump Manual (http://jumpmanual.com) which is the most popular jump training program on the internet.
His name is Jacob Hiller.
16-24 year old male athletes or prospective athletes. Most are in high school with the majority in or about to be in their senior year of high school (USA).
The market is full of hungry kids but they often times don't know where to go for legitimate information. So there are trust issues. We want the site to build trust for the prospect and get them to sign up for the free email course.
http://screenr.com/mZt <-- Refer to screencast
URL of dev site: http://184.108.40.206
Header width: 951px
Header height: Keep it as short as possible. Current one is 91 pixels high.
Colors: Should match the current color scheme: Reds, blacks, greys, dark blue, dark yellow. (see the sample header in attached docs).
We need a simple and clean header for this site that pops a bit. We don't want it flashy or loaded with graphics. We just want it to look professional, trustworthy and to fit the genre (fitness/sports/training/athletics).
Need a simple logo using "VJT" or "FVJT" or anything you think would look great as the logo/symbol/icon for the site.
Site headline should say "Vertical Jump Training" and the tagline should be worked in there IF possible "Thou Shalt Raise Up" Isaiah 58:12.
Typography should stand out a bit but not scream for attention.
Optionally you can add images of the author, his signature, or ESPN logos, etc. Those are attached below. I also attached a simple header that Jacob kinda likes.
The most important call to action on the site is the opt in box on the right side and in the footer of the site. If you can add an element or two to draw the eyes to the right of the page that would be awesome.
If you have questions, let me know. I'll be moderating this pretty heavily and give lots of feedback.


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In the dining area of this renovated barn by architect Calvert Wright, the pendant lights from John Derian Co. hang above a table by High Falls Mercantile; the vintage French dining chairs are from Schorr & Dobinsky, and the rugs were found in Istanbul.
Love it? Click on the bottom right corner of the photo to pin it yourself!


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Washington, DC
"Our bill strikes the right balance between strengthening consumer confidence in the safety of chemicals, while also promoting innovation and the growth of an important sector of our economy," said Vitter. "Groups across the political spectrum, including environmental and industry representatives, are seeing the value of establishing a program that would provide confidence to consumers and businesses, ensuring EPA has the tools it needs to make critical determinations founded in a transparent process."
Today, the American Alliance for Innovation, a coalition of trade associations representing a broad spectrum of the economy, announced the support of nearly 90 trade organizations for CSIA. Today's statement is in addition to the already broad alliance of support. CSIA is cosponsored by 12 Democrats and 9 Republicans, as well as other groups and news outlets.
The top EPA toxics officials under both the Obama and Bush Administrations have hailed the Lautenberg-Vitter legislation to reform the nation's chemical laws. Click here to read statements from Steve Owens and Charles M. Auer, both of whom served in top positions at the EPA's Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention, which is responsible for administering the current Toxic Substances Control Act.
Additional endorsements for this effort have also been provided by the following organizations:
Environmental Defense Fund
American Academy of Pediatrics
The Humane Society
The New York Times
Washington Post
Chicago Tribune


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Short for Berkeley Software Distribution, BSD is a full-featured Unix operating system developed at the University of California at Berkeley.
Its main application today is as a robust and scalable web server, though different permutations have arisen over the years that expand upon the original code. Different flavors of BSD Unix include NetBSD, FreeBSD, and OpenBSD. BSD remains popular at universities and throughout the open source movement.Go Back to Top. Skip To: Start of Article.