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Friday, January 14, 2011
Chesterfield: Politics as Usual
I am hear to tell you that the result of such action has been as negative here in Chesterfield as it has nationally in terms of the last Congress. We all know what happened in November. Voters rejected the path in which both Congress and Obama were taking the nation down and now here in Chesterfield I can tell you that citizens are rejecting not only the policies of this Board but in fact are questioning its motives.
Yesterday, there was a meeting regarding the new Comprehensive Plan in Midlothian. (More on that meeting later for its deserving of its own post). In attendance were the usual suspects; Supervisor Gecker(Midlothian), Supervisor Durfee(Matoaca), Patty Carpenter(School Board-Midlothian) and many Planning officials but also there sitting respectfully in the back of the meeting room was Supervisor Jim Holland(Dale) who just a day earlier had been the victim (yes victim) and some of the political engineering as so often has expressed itself in Chesterfield County. So much for a new day and tone!
Or should I say so much for "Planning not Politics" as Supervisor Gecker's campaign slogan suggested . Oh folks, "Politics" is alive and well in Chesterfield and in part due to people like Mr. Gecker.
Instead, what the County gets is once again the status quo of leadership. If the County voted out the Republicans and they currently remain somewhat in the minority given the current political make-up; 1 democrat, 2 Independents, and 2 Republicans. Remember, there were 5 seated Republicans going into the last election. Why on earth than would the Board continue to shift backward to Supervisor Art Warren you ask? Simple. Politics.
Warren has held the Chairmanship of the Board a few times in his 20 years as a Supervisor, but there is more to it than that. The County is at a crossroads with regard to its future. It appears as though the powers that be wanted the power of the Chair in the hands of a friend, given Mr. Holland was just recently elected and has been a bit of a wild card on the Board. Truth be told, I have the greatest amount of respect for Holland who appears to vote his conscience and appears not to persuaded by the powers. Holland, however was betrayed on those closest to him and those people he has worked beside these last few years.
I have no doubt the disappointment felt by Mr. Holland and frankly the surprise that such a back room deal orchestrated by his fellow Supervisors would be sprung on him at the very meeting there was to be a vote. Everyone assumed Mr. Holland would take over as Chair and then at the last moment the plan unraveled and Warren was secured the Chair by a vote of 3-2.
Supervisor Jaeckle's(Bermuda) position in the matter was known. After all, she is a Republican and has voted alongside Warren for the last few years, but what was quite surprising was the switch made by Supervisor Gecker(Midlothian) who had supported Holland until the vote when he joined Jaeckle in supporting Warren. Gecker has had the current Chair this past year.
Supporters of gecker at the Planning meeting voiced that his actions demonstrated his "independent" nature, however those of us who have observed Gecker these last nine years know he is a pure politician. It is my opinion that Gecker made a politically calculated move because he knows the Midlothian District is in large part a Conservative area. Gecker made a calculated move in 2006 to run as an "Independent" after losing to Donald Sowder-R in the Special Election running as a Democrat. In 2006, Gecker challenged Sowder again and defeated him this time running as an "Independent". It was a calculated move based on politics and Gecker understands he will not be able to yield the same kind of sentiment for "change" like he did in the historic 2006 election and will need many Republicans to support his re-election bid.
Again, Mr. Gecker has demonstrated his desire to engage in the worst kind of politics. The politics of selfishness. Gecker had an opportunity to bring about an historic vote in Chesterfield which would have seen the first minority Chairman in County history. Instead, Gecker hands over the reigns to Warren for the third time in four years.
Now that's "change" you can believe in!
30 comments:
- sara said...
Gecker made a point to mention that people assume there are back room dealings - politics being played - by the Chesterfield BOS, but then reassured the audience that none of that was going on.
I really had to hold it in on that one, almost had to leave the room for laughing so hard. I'm sure Mr. Holland felt the same.....
And talk about playing to the conservative base in Midlo. Not one time during the entire presentation were the words "sustainable development" mentioned - not one time. Which is incredible, given the background of Vladimir Gavrilovic, senior planner/consultant of the Plan.
- January 15, 2011 at 9:11:00 AM AST
My post above refers to the public meeting on the Comprehensive Plan, held after the board voted in Warren.
- January 15, 2011 at 9:24:00 AM AST
I thought that was very curious as well sara. Both Gecker and Durfee ran on a platform of smart growth, open space, green space; I wonder if SportsQuest qualifies- ha.
Does the proposed plan support this notion of "sustainable growth". I have not read the plan yet but I wonder if it is mentioned anywhere, potentially in the Implementation section.
I particularly thought that Gecker's deferment to the consultants and then to the Planners about the school issue was also very telling. Durfee kept shifting in her seat, especially over the whole "resdistricting" mentioning. I don't think they really have any solutions for what we face in Bon Air/Midlothian with schools other than to say we will not be getting any new ones. I am fine with that as long as they than stop approving any more zoning developments in the district. Its obvious they will continue to force capacity until there is a major outcry from the public.
- January 15, 2011 at 1:01:00 PM AST
Lets see if the members of the Chesterfield County Democrat Committee have the backbone to challenge Dan Gecker in the Fall.
Since the era of Ed Barber in Midlothian, Democrats have always seemed afraid to mobilize and basically have demonstrated a complete apathy for elections.
Maybe this situation can be the spark that finally lights the fire.
- January 15, 2011 at 4:27:00 PM AST
"Politics As Usual"- has it ever changed? Its the same people behind the scenes AOF.
People have failed to realize that the figure heads on the Boards are simply the face. The same people have been running the local government from the inside out. Look at the Budget and Audit Committee, the Planning Department and other areas within government itself that have a vested interest for government to frow beyond its means.
The new "Plan" for the County simply places more centralized power in the hands of these government departments and they are unelected. If you really think that the Supervisor is going to determine what you can and cannot do with your land you are naive. They will get a reccomendation from the Planning department and then Planning Commission (appointed not elected) and than vote on it. How many times have the Board gone against these people in the development process over the years? The Supervisors put a stamp on it but hardly make the real choices. The Planning Department will say whether a case "meets" the Comprehensive Plan guidelines and the "Plan" will be used as a sword against property owners EVENTHOUGH they are out touting this thing not as a "Law" but a "guideline". Just what is it going to be used for as a guideline? Frankly, limiting your ability to do with your property what you wish to do with it unless it fits into their narrow, unfocused sustainable community agenda.
It saddens me to see Chesterfield go this route. Others have tried this kind of "Plan" and have fallen into the trap of unintendeed consequences. I question whether these official really see them as unintended. Any measure that will put more power in the hands of Daniel Gecker and others I think they are fine with truth be told.
- January 18, 2011 at 10:51:00 AM AST
The CCDC did release a rebuke of sorts regarding the back room deal or compromise by Supervisor Dan Gecker to win favor by backing Warren. He did not nominate him, but knew it was going to go down and did not even have the integrity enough to let Jim Holland know about it. Shameful political startegy is correct, but than thats Gecker.
They should channel this contempt for this good ole boy tactic and run against him in Midlothian!
- January 19, 2011 at 12:44:00 AM AST
Change is coming to Chesterfield this fall. We are going to sweep the stench of party politics out of local government. That includes our closed door School Board.
You are also going to see some of the holy Christian superstar politicans to have some very soiled laundry and fiscal dealings.
- January 22, 2011 at 2:26:00 PM AST
- The Bulletproof Monk said...
Alter --- wanted to make sure you're still feet down, not feet up.
Happy New Year. You were missed.
- January 23, 2011 at 7:50:00 PM AST
The first step in political leadership is getting elected," added a businessperson. "If you can't get elected, how good of a leader can you be? Warren has almost 20 years on the board including many years as chair. If your business was going into a tough year, would you hand over the reins to two people with just six years of experience or one guy with 20?" (chesterfieldobserver1/19/11)
This sums up what we face in the County. Bring back someone like Warren with the 20 years- 20 years along with Daniel Geckers 10 years of digging us in this hole to begin with. Who is the blame for the overcrowding and poorly conceived planning in the County? Is it two people who have been on the Board for three years (Durfee/Holland) or those like Warren and Gecker that have been around for decades? I wonder.
- January 25, 2011 at 5:28:00 PM AST
The Chair's vote had nothing to do with Jim. ART WARREN was the SWING.
It wasn't Dan. I know this because i had three individuals call me the week before the meeting to ask me to make calls.
The calls were NOT about Jim and NOT about Dan. This happened because the business community didn't want Marleen as Vice Chair, even though the position doesn't really mean anything.
I am not saying this to cause discord or unrest. I really just want people to understand what really happened.
I know some of you aren't Gecker fans but trust me, he cares about his district far more than most of the other Supervisors.
And to be fair, if you look at his record while on the PC, he NEVER voted for a case that represented western sprawl...not one time.
But anyhoo, this nightmare was about Art and Marleen.
- January 25, 2011 at 7:11:00 PM AST
Daniel Gecker has never voted for a case that has contributed to western sprawl....umm Okay I guess Magnolia Green, Brandy Oaks, Carters Mill, Charter Colony, Harpers Mill and oh the grand daddy Roseland never ever happened.
My guess you are so void of the facts Anony which is why you will not put your name on your statement.
Gecker had been on the Planning Commission under Ed Barber who was the Midlothian Supervisor who appointed him. He later was Chairman. He was part of the largest expansion of residential developments in the history of Chesterfield and has contributed more to the over capacity of schools as any other local official both directly and indirectly.
The fact is and I know this personally that Gecker and Jaeckle have aligned themselves as in this case. It was simply a matter of the developer class in this community fearing that the Comprehensive Planning which ultimately is a boon for them would be jeopardized with a Holland/Durfee leadership.
The fact as you say that it was "not about Jim" tells us everything we need to know about Gecker. In fact, it should have been about Jim Holland, but instead of providing the same opportunity that gecker was provided whuen he moved up from Vice to Chair; he decided that it was best to play politics.
It will be interesting to see how things play out this year though. Forces are aligning against Gecker which is why he has recently been reaching out to the local GOP in hopes have some favor come November given his switch -and he DID switch his vote. With the formation of a Midlothian Tea Party from the infrastructure created for the Bayne campaign for Congress I would expect Gecker to be targeted very hard through the blogoshere and social media.
We will have to wait and see if the local CCRC is swayed by gecker given Donald Williams efforts to get warren the Chair, but then they could be too occupied with the whole Jamie Radtke membership application. Yes. That Jamie Radtke running for U.S. Senate.
- January 25, 2011 at 9:08:00 PM AST
In terms of Mr. Gecker there can be no question that his hands have been on much of what we face in terms of pain with regard to growth. Thats not to say that Mr.Gecker is the sole culprit, but his liberal-progressive policies with regard to sustainable growth principles has contributed to the impending capacity crisis we face in the County in terms of schools.
While I have no doubt regarding Mr. Gecker's intentions within the district, he routinely shifts accountability to others with regard the issues we face eventhough as James stated has been involved for over ten years in the process.
For example, it was Mr. Gecker who thrawted the proposed increase by Mrs. Durfee and Mr. Holland for much higher cash proffers. Gecker instead offered up a much lower increase than was proposed by Durfee and of course got Warren and Jaeckle's support. The County since 1991 has realistically only received about 36 million on proffers and is much less than other localities of the same size and growth patterns (Loudoun County, Prince William County). Mr. Gecker attacked Mr. Sowder (r-Midlothian)in 2006 for being pro-developer and part of the Republican establishment that was cozy with developers and yet since in office Gecker has done more than Sowder ever did to benefit the developers. This includes many of the approved zonings that Gecker saw when he was on the Planning Commission in the early stages.
I want to point out something very important. The two major feathers in the cap for the liberal-progressive land use policies of Gecker and Durfee have defaulted. Both Roseland this year and Magnolia Green over a year ago have seen its developers default on loans and force them into bankruptcy. How much money did the County spend throughout the zoning process only to have both these developers default. Who now will build the schools that were part of the zoning packages? Will the new Comphrensive Plan include these schools?
Mr. Gecker has been very careful to steer people away from using words like "sustainable" with regard to this Comprehensive Plan but in fact is a staunt supporter for Agenda 21. The consultants behind the Plan are also supporters of this philosophy based on previous projects and reccomendations. The impact of the policies that Mr. Gecker endorses in fact, will result in declining property values and higher taxes.
How will this happen? Property values in the centers will rise over time because available property for development will dry up and vacant lots will decrease, but in areas not designated as an Urban Center, such as a Corridor or Countryside, the number of homes per acre will be drastically reduced. This creates less homes paying less as a tax base. The property values in the rural areas decline because homes can only be built on 25 acres. Thus if you are sitting on ten acreas today and Gecker's vision is approved and you live in Matoaca you will not be able to build a home on the parcel. If a home cannot be built on that parcel, its value declines thus resulting in a decline in property tax generated.
Mr. Gecker believes this Plan will reduce the number of residents by 100,000 moving forward if adopted, but if we decrease the number of homes (by increasing required acreage limits) thereby decreasing the potentially the number of residents and government refuses to cut spending will not the net effect be an increase in taxes on those that live in Chesterfield.
Mr. Gecker informed citizens at the Midlothian planning meeting that eventhough the Plan may reduce the costs of planning ( projected to be 772million) that the government would not be reducing such things as the Capital Improvement Plan. Eventhough the Plan states that there would be less schools required, less libraries, less firestations and police substations our government would still spend as if the old plannining models were being used. His attitude may as well be "we can always find things to spend money on"!
- January 26, 2011 at 12:49:00 AM AST
Chesterfield is and always has been a Conservative community. Mr. Gecker's plans are hardly Conservative. In fact, he has probably been the biggest Liberal-Progressive to ever represent the Midlothian District in the history of the County. His record I believe demonstrates this.
- January 26, 2011 at 12:50:00 AM AST
Mr David:
Magnolia Green was zoned in 1989 (case # 89SN0343) Charter Colony in 1994 (case 94SN0138), with John Tyler proffered instead of cash Carters Mill (subdivision approved 2/23/90) Brandy Oaks (subdivision approved 2/14/89)
Gecker joined the commission in 2000, after these areas had been zoned.
He did support Harper's Mill (case 02SN0209) because of the transportation and school proffers.
The first phase of Roseland, N. Hallsley, was zoned in 1989 (case 89SN0354)before Gecker...again, and the remainder of Roseland was approved because it represented the quality of growth the county wanted for the future,with more land, infrastructure and facility improvements than any other case in history.
All of this information is easily accessed on the county's website.
Is this factual enough for you?
My post was to explain what had happened prior to the vote.That is the only reason I posted as ANON.
If you know anyone in the business community, please call them and ask for yourself. The pressure was on Art Warren. He was the one who changed his mind and provided the third vote against Marleen. I agree with you inasmuch as it should have been about Jim. He's a great man.
- January 26, 2011 at 10:02:00 AM AST
On the surface of things the information provided in the last post is accurate, but does not tell the full story.
The reason being is the poster should make themselves aware of the following:
"amendment of conditional use planned development"
This is commonly used as the developer makes changes, usually at the request of the Planning Department as it phases in the project from the initial approval or in this case zoning.
That said, Magnolia Green went through this process after Daniel Gecker was seated on the Planning Commission. I attended many meetings regarding the various zonings during this time period. Back in 2006, Magnolia Green went through the revison process in large part because of the courtcase between Lifestyle Homes and Sal Congiano who owned almost 4,000 acreas which became the development. Thought the area was zoned pre-Gecker initially, it was further rezoned and approved again in 1991 amidst heated debate from Supervisor Humphrey whom at the time wanted more commercial than residential as was in the original proposals. What would come out of these events would be the Lower Magnolia Green- finally adopted in 2007.
I want to point out that this Lower Magnolia was fully supported by Daniel Gecker and in fact he was a strong proponent for the "District" that was established where home owners residing in the area pay an additional tax of about $500 a year on top of their poperty taxes that was supposed to go towards infrastructure and potentiall the expansion of the Powhite. This proposed expansion has been on hold for some time due to economic concerns, but nonetheless Daniel Gecker is on record supporting this extension (9 miles to Grange Hall) though not as a toll road. This expansion is currently illustrated in the Comphrehensive Plan 2010 currently under review in the County.
I would further point to the zonings of Sappony, Stony Glen (Chester Plan) Woodland Pond and even adjustments to Charter Colony, Roseland (Hallesley) that were in one fashion or another, revised amendments, or conditonal mixed use additions all of which at one time or another came up before the Planning Commission or the Board while Daniel Gecker was seated. Let us not forget the Upper Swift Creek Plan either.
- January 27, 2011 at 1:35:00 AM AST
"The quality of growth" wanted by the County has resulted as stated above in the two developments mentioned are now unable to meet or follow through with the obligations set forth by the zoning approvals.
You will recall schools were to be built to support Roseland's buildout and yet now Sowers has filed for bankruptcy protection.
This "quality" standard supported by Daniel Gecker and to a lessor extent today Marlene Durfee than when she was an activist is called "sustainable growth"
The new Comprehensive Plan 2010 is the embodiment of this progressive principle that if examined with any level of integrity in other areas has demonstrated will limited property rights, drive up taxes and lower property values. It puts the power in the government's hands to pick the winners and losers through land use determinations.
If you reside in an area they seek to designate Countryside Rural you options for developing your property will be severely limited.
I wish to point out that the arguement that has been made at three of the Planning meetings regarding the notion that the Plan is not an ordinance but simply a "guide" rings hollow.
This "guide" will be the presiding doctrine used by the Planning Department to render judgement of every zoning case when it makes its reccomendations to the PC and Board. Everytime a case for rezoning is denied you will hear that it was denied because it did not adhere to the Comprehensive Plan adopted by the County.
- January 27, 2011 at 1:47:00 AM AST
That is very true. I want to make it clear that the County will have the power just like they did with Magnolia to create "tax districts" where they can levy additional taxes on citizens who reside in this designated areas. You will recall these were called that "Transportation Authorities" were struck down in Virginia as a means of levying a tax on citizens because these did not have authority under the law to demand taxes. These "districts" are merely another solution born out of that same mold.
Gecker, Warren and Durfee will not answer whether they would or will form these to pay for roads given they have no plan for infrastructure nor have they even attempted to create one. The fact that the Comp Plan today is creating different zones will make it very easy for them to create these areas for designation. Urban Centers could be made to pay a tax as could Corridors and then like at differing points. We are already seeing this implementation being attempted along RT 60 with business being assessed addtional taxes to pay for landscaping are we not?
Whats to keep these people from basically slicing up the County in the same manner? Afterall, is that not just what the tennents are for Sustainable Communities. in the first place.
Gecker calls it "New Urbanism". I call it Wrong for Chesterfield!
- January 27, 2011 at 1:57:00 AM AST
Hey guys,
I'm new here.
Btw, I happen to be a [url=http://forums.waterskimag.com/member.php?u=1000007902 ]lawyer[/url], too. :D
Hopefully I can contribute here!
- January 27, 2011 at 8:53:00 AM AST
Why is it every time we hear that the County is cutting spending its always a bunch of bunk.
Last year, I attended a community meeting intended to heal some of the wounds between the School Board and the BOCS talking about the budgets with parents.
We were told that the local government was cuttign spending by simply not filling vacant position. Is that really cutting anything. I mean thats cutting not from existing spending but spending that has really not occurred. I guess since the belief system held is they have the money coming anyway its perceived as a cut but is it really. Is a pay freeze really a cut as well? I mean it implies that you were arbitrarily going to raise wages across the board as well. Must be nice.
I find it strange that elected officials appear to be going out of their way to inform parents that there are no back room deals happening and then we read about the selection of the Chairman of the BOCS and how that went down. I have yet seen any real statement from Mr. Gecker about his participation given the reports he was the one who changed his vote at the last minute. He likes to advocate transparency except in cases where it applies to himself and his actions.
I supported Mr. Gecker three years ago. I was seeking a change in direction but like Washington the change has been something of a disappointment. My wife in the end has been right regarding the fact we should not have expected someone who has been so deep in the process for the last decade that he could be a change agent. She said then Gecker was simply on the same team, but wearing a different suit. It so happens she has been right.
Needless to say, niether of us will be supporting Mr. Gecker should he decide to seek re-election this year. I am not aware of any candidates as of yet but will embrace anyone who seeks to put the County above self-interest and hopefully it will be from new and exciting blood and not from the field of usual suspects.
Good day.
- January 27, 2011 at 6:00:00 PM AST
Good grief people, this is simple! Developers and real estate interests are paranoid about the new plan taking shape. Phone calls were made to do everything possible to lobby against Marleen and Jim, the two supervisors most likely to support the plan and the least likely to make deals with the development community. Not to mention, Dan who stood to gain brownie points with the GOP for supporting Art. Who knows maybe the GOP offered a weak opponent in Midlothian in exchange...More outragious things have happened.
About the upcoming plan and all the sustainable growth hysteria being spat about on this blog, any comprehensive plan comes down to simple questions like where future growth should go and who is going to pay for it. Government and our elected representatives have the final say (Code of Virginia) and if you want those representatives to have a legal leg to stand on if they want to deny zoning cases then you had better have a plan that is clear, predictable and data driven. Freedom to do whatever an individual wants to do with his property is not "free". We can have whatever development pattern we wish to pay for. If sprawl is cheaper than planned development then give me more sprawl, but I highly doubt it. I'm sick of developers crying about proffers, high taxes and crappy infrastructure. I'll take my chances with the new Plan.
- January 27, 2011 at 7:29:00 PM AST
I do not quite understand why the last poster feels there is "hysteria" here. I believe the word in concern.
Anyone who has lived in this County for more than twenty years knows just how bad government will continue to foul things up regardless of what Plan is in place.
Remember the elected officials are using the "steering" folks as cover. This is Geckers plan more so than it is Durfee or Hollands. In fact, insiders know that a Holland Chairmanship and Durfee Vice Chair would have put more restrictions on the developers and demand more open, green space. Eventhough Gecker has supported those things as well, there is great anyomosity between Gecker and Durfee. It goes back to when she was working with Responsible Growth and as a community activist going before Gecker's Planning Commission.
I tend to want to look to examples before we "take a chance" and study the impacts that such a measure would really have on our County. We know right now that though Vlad has stated that the consultants feel adopting the measures principles would save the County 772 million goinf forward and reduce 100K people residing in the County that the current plans have projected. How does it do this? Whats the impact on property values? The impact on property rights?
If other examples, like Portland, OR or Seattle, WA are any indication what some of the impacts will be regarding property values and taxes I think residents deserve some honesty from our leaders as to what to really expect. What is the true purpose of designating differing types of zones; Urban Centers, Corridors, Countryside, Regional Center, Countryside Rural if these guidelines are not going to used to set zoning standards within those particular areas. There has really been alot of dishonesty in this regard. If the County has no intention os using the Plan as a sword than why must we need it in the first place? Why can't we just create a Rehabilitation Plan for the County and amend the current Comprehensive Plan taking into account the varying elements of those Plans as they are today. Was not the current Plan-they say there are some 22- used to set zoning standards for those areas? Why then are people like Gecker telling us that its not a law or an ordinance but a guide if in fact it will be used as they underlying foundation as to what may or may not be zoned.
It saddened me to hear that Gecker has no intention of lessoning the Capital Improvement Plan should this Plan be approved. The Plan calls for a reduction in schools, libraries, ect that require alot of revenue resources (or the 2004 bond- for example Monacan gym expansion SB CIP) and yet eventhough the required number of schools could be reduced by the Plan Gecker does not see reducing the CIP as a good for the County. If less people are to be moving into the County, should not the Utility portion of the CIP also be reduced given the decline of residential lots in the Countryside and Countryside Rural areas?
- January 27, 2011 at 8:11:00 PM AST
Hi all!
Happy New Year!
This string is just too much for me to resist. I'm going to attempt to inject a few additional facts into this discussion and most likely, a few opinions.
First issue: Magnolia Green (and most other old zoning cases): I worked for Magnolia Green,(until they decided not to listen to me) so I feel qualified to make the following statements:
1. Magnolia Green NEVER re-opened it's zoning. In fact, they ended up hoodwinked into a 37 million dollar CDA because they refused to reopen the old zoning, and their lawyer didn't have the courage to take it to court. The first court case was fought because Mr. Cangiano received a better offer for S. Magnolia a few days after it was sold and tried to breach the contract.The Supreme Court divided the permitted densities between N and S when it rendered its opinion.
The CDA was orchestrated and approved by the old BOS and old administration. Mr. Gecker had no part of it. I think he would be all too happy if there was no MG CDA, because that would mean more debt capacity he could try to get for his district.
The approvals Mr. Scott is referencing are the Subdivision approvals. Like it or not,the county has far less control at the subdivision level. When a property is zoned with conditions, it can't legally be downzoned by local mandate. However, they can make the subdivision process a long and painful one.
2. Comp Plan: I served on the steering committee and appreciate the comments of some of these posts. However,the spine of the plan will be the zoning ordinance. the ordinance will determine what is permitted, and staff will only recommend what the plan supports.
As it is now, the plan...isn't.
Until it is adopted by the BOS, it doesn't do a thing. I am fairly confident what ends up adopted will be significantly different from what you see now. That's the process, and the Plan is required by law.
3. The CIP: I really don't think the Plan (and associated PFP) is going to be adopted this year. Until it is, the CIP is based on the CURRENT public facilities plan. By the time the new plan is adopted, the CIP will be due for another revision, and we might well see significant differences from the current trend. I suppose we'll have to wait and see.
- January 28, 2011 at 3:42:00 PM AST
@ Andrea-
Last night in Matoaca we learned that there no is no intention of lowering the CIP EVEN after adoption of the proposed Comprehensive Plan. I would have to say that 2/3 of the people were not supportive of the Plan in its current form. I sat behind was appeared to be a contingent of "Tea Party"/Campaign for Liberty supporters and they hammered away at the threat to property rights that this mess represents.
Some of Mr. Scott's points were validated last night in both the presentation and the question and answer period. Especially those regarding the debate over zones of influence with the planning and how such a plan would be used by the government to review zoning cases and rezonings.
It came up last night and it is interesting that someone on the thread here mention that Sup. Gecker has not contributed to western sprawl given he supports the extension of Powhite Parkway. This extension is pretty well illustrated in the Comprehensive Plan. Originally he had supported it to be extended a mere mile, but word last night is he along with Art Warren and Dot Jaeckle are endoring it.
Is'nt it weird that this coalition has formed between the three of them. Don't think anyone saw that coming. Many thought it would be a Durfee, Holland and Gecker trio but Sup. Gecker has "seen the light" or the money from the construction industry.
Sup. Durfee and Sup. Gecker appear to still have one big thing in common; arrogance!
- January 28, 2011 at 8:09:00 PM AST
Welcome back. It has been awhile but then local issues always seem to create the dialogues that we so desperately require these days in Chesterfield.
With regard to the CIP (Capital Improvment Plan) for both the County at large and the School Board CIP it is true that the current public facilities planning is being used as the "guide" for what we require in terms of infrastructure improvements and buildouts throughout the County, however I find it deeply concerning that on the one hand we use the facilities plan for such purposes but some of our elected officials on on record as stating that the Comprehensive Plan 2010 is "not a law or ordinance and is merely a tool to help the Planning Department" (Daniel Gecker-I Midlothian at Midlothian Planning meeting this month. Would not the Comprehensive Plan if adopted replace the existing facility plans that have been developed throughout the years in different parts of the County. I thought the original goal was to unfiy those plans.
The reality is that once this new vision for the County is adopted and in all likelihood save community pushback it will, it will replace existing planning doctrine and WILL be used as the baseline moving forward regarding any planning matter.
I find it ironic that a subdivision such as Magnolia Green, which was touted as a "smart" growth community very well could never be established in the future in Countryside or Countryside Rural. This point was raised Thursday night in Matoaca at its Planning Meeting.
I can tell you that Matoaca as a district has the most loss should this new vision be adopted. Why? Midlothian is basically or at least will be by the time this vision is adopted virtually 90% built out in terms of available property for development. In short, it is a mature, established community. Matoaca, not so much.
Also pointed out at the Midlothian and Matoaca meetings is the fact that the vision changes and moves away from practices already in place in working well. For example, the new vision would prevent an Elementary and High School on the same planned area, which is exactly what James River and B. Weaver do so successfully. Why the change? No one seems to have an answer.
I guess my biggest concern is the reality that our elected officials are offering up very little in terms of the whys and hows or even the potential impacts of such changes nor are they addressing what a future CIP would or even should look like. Is not the purpose of the planning two fold; create a better quality of life for the community and bring the costs of government and growth down? The latter appears lost on this bunch.
- January 29, 2011 at 2:39:00 PM AST
Hi Jonathan!
It's good to be back...(I can't excuse getting so busy I don't take time to check in with the blogosphere)
Well, if I am going to be totally honest, I would have to say that a good number of people on the steering committee aren't happy with the plan either. Myself included.
I think staff did the best possible job they could with 33 non planners on a committee, and the plan contains many, many, good policy goals. However, that's all it contains. The way it is currently structured, all of the implementation will be done after adoption.
The Plan is the "Guide" but the zoning and subdivision ordinances will be where the rubber meets the road, where property rights will be impacted the most.
My other issue is sewer capacity. But, I'm not gonna get into the poo!!!! (for now)
As an aside, the draft public facilities plan suggests co-location of facilities everywhere possible...I thought?
- February 1, 2011 at 3:41:00 PM AST
We learned last night at Cosby that they have changed the "co-location" aspect to move away from elementary/high combinations to middle/high but the fact remains the County needs more elementary and high schools than middle. The reason being middle has three years, but the later have four and five grades.
I know Jonathan has proposed many solutions that could be addressed to end trailers at schools and plan more effectively for the future with regard to schools, but we always end up with three things being considered:
1. Redistricting- Cosby, Watkins, Robious Middle all must be. Cosby is frustrating because people here like Joe, Jonathan, and others advocated for a larger school and placing a middle school with Cosby instead of plabinf Tomahawk where the County did and the County leaders ignored them.
2. Trailers- Gecker in Midlothian has stated that no middle schools should be built in the SB CIP and that the solution to address those schools are #1 and adding more trailers.
3. School Schedule- 1/2 day kindergarten at elementary schools or resetting the structure to k-5, 6-9, 10-12 allowing 9th garders to still particpate in jv high school sports...uphill battle and little politcial will but still should be examined over building out 40-80 million dollar schools
Disappointed with M. Durfee last night. She felt compelled to play activist for the Plan instead of elected official and was borderline attemtping to sell the Plan not on its merits but on her own philosophy of planning.
- February 1, 2011 at 9:16:00 PM AST
- Sports Business Course said...
If the County voted out the Republicans and they currently remain somewhat in the minority given the current political make-up; 1 democrat, 2 Independents, and 2 Republicans. Remember, there were 5 seated Republicans going into the last election.
- September 25, 2011 at 11:25:00 PM AST
- Tutor said...
Politics as usual is correct, but the Commission is equally guilty. I'm really amazed that so few people realize the Upper Swift Creek Plan hasn't really changed. The Green Zone isn't quite what it seems, most of the staff and anyone that understands land use ( in contrast to those that stand at the podium and act like they have a clue)can see this. The water quality issue can only be addresed with ordinance amendments. If anything were to change on the map for water quality purposes, the recommended densities would increase.
- September 26, 2011 at 1:28:00 AM AST
- Edinburgh Geothermal said...
Voters rejected the path in which both Congress and Obama were taking the nation down and now here in Chesterfield I can tell you that citizens are rejecting not only the policies of this Board but in fact are questioning its motives.
- September 26, 2011 at 4:45:00 AM AST
- Unknown said...
- April 9, 2013 at 3:59:00 AM AST


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Devconnect needed a new logo design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 58 designs submitted by 15 freelance designers.
We need an eye-catching, tasteful label capturing the elements of this product from the rain forest regions of northern Argentina. We already have a company logo (see website for logo: http://www.beobearefoods.com) and need a label for this specific product (see description)
Yerba Mate Leaf blended with orange zest and rose petal
Desired Color Scheme:
open to suggestions
Desired Style:
Refined yet Funky, bold Color, Hip, Organic
Accepted File Formats:
Industry standard
We are releasing a new product to our line. Yerba Mate (tea from south american rain forests) blends consisting of organic pesticide-free ingredients. Our first product is a "Lluvia Roja" (meaning Red Rain) blend utilizing roses and orange zest. This contest is to design the label/logo for the Lluvia Roja Yerba Mate Blend. The label should incorporate the name of the item (Lluvia Roja Yerba Mate Blend) and the tagline describing the product "yerba mate leaf blended with orange zest and rose petal". WE DO NOT NEED A LOGO FOR THE COMPANY, JUST THIS PRODUCT. Thanks and we look forward to your submission.
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.

subset: commoncrawl


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ChessCube V6.32 Changelog
This is just a quick update on V6.32 going live today.
The main change includes the ability to invite your online friends to join you play a ChessCube Tournament. To do so, click the green "Invite Friends" button in the top-right of the Tournament window:
You can then select your list of friends (online friends only) who you'd like to invite, and send the invites:
Once successful..


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Blue Lagoon Spa in Iceland: Pictures and Travel Guide
Take a Journey to Iceland's Blue Lagoon Spa
Take a Journey to Iceland's Blue Lagoon Spa
Not many countries can claim a spa as its main tourist attraction, but in Iceland's case, it's easy to see why so many people flock to the Blue Lagoon. The milky blue waters of this geothermal spa draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, and it's as relaxing as it is picturesque. I'd heard of this beautiful place, but never dreamed I'd see it with my own eyes. So when the Blue Lagoon invited BellaSugar on a trip to see the spa, what could I say but "já"? Read on for a tour of this must-visit spot, but you've been warned: once you've seen Iceland, you'll want to go there. (I'm planning my next vacation already.)


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Known — and adored — as the mustachioed libertarian Ron Swanson of NBC's "Parks and Recreation," Nick Offerman brings his talents and quirk to Baltimore with his show, American Ham with Nancy and Beth, featuring the singing duo of Offerman's wife, Megan Mullally ("Will & Grace") and Stephanie Hunt. Offerman performs at the Modell Performing Arts Center at the Lyric on Sept. 4 and gave us 20 reasons to see his show. You better listen to him.
1. My wife's astonishing singing voice.
2. My wife's classically beautiful face. You will swoon. Ladies too.
3. A story I tell about Elrond's elvish sex life. Racy.
4. Nancy and Beth dance like a couple of tiny white Beyonces.
5. My 10 tips for a prosperous life. Taste the flavor.
6. My wife's chest area. Should count as two reasons.
7. It's a great venue in which to digest your red meat and Scotch.
8. The chance to marvel at my musk. Even in the back row.
9. My wife's bouncing fanny. Worth 20 reasons by itself.
10. The gorgeous close harmonies from Nancy and Beth.
11. Minor nudity!
12. A discussion of the pros of eating Red Meat. No cons.
13. Cautionary tales from an hirsute fellow. (Me)
14. A display of fine American whiskers.
15. Some salty sex talk. Quite descriptive.
16. Nancy.
17. My wife's dainty feet and also lower back and neck. The whole shebang.
18. You'll have grown tired of the Orioles trouncing the Indians in a three-game sweep.
19. Beth.
20. A veritable feast of chuckles. Wear loose pants.
Nick Offerman's American Ham tour stops at 8 Sept. 4 at the Modell Performing Arts Center at the Lyric, 140 W. Mount Royal Ave. Tickets are $34.50. For more information and tickets, go to lyricoperahouse.com. "Parks and Recreation" returns for a sixth season at 8 p.m. Sept. 26.


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Showt is a wonderful tool for activists to rally their supporters to let the world know of their cause. There are many ways for activists to use Showt:
Bloggers can quote ShowtCounts in their blogs. Soon Showt will offer a special widget for bloggers to insert into their website that will highlight Showtees (people, places, products, movies, TV shows, issues).
Educators can incorporate Showts and Showting in their curriculum in a variety of courses: political science, history, current affairs, economics, journalism, science. Students can be encouraged to debate the merits of a myriad of Showtees in these courses, and have their voice be heard through the Showt platform.
Journalists can set up their own ShowtBack account, so readers and viewers can Showt about them, and get a ShowtBack.
Journalists can also quote ShowtCounts and ShowtBacks in their writing and reports.
They can encourage their web publishers to insert the Showt Widget onto their sites, to allow the readers to Showt on every Showtee listed on their site.
Showting is for everyone. Anyone 13 or older can register on Showt. Showting is a wonderful way to make yourself be heard around the world -- and get a reply from Showtees. Power to the kids!


text:
For additional information about each product,
click the underlined code in the product list below.
Our product list is divided into 20 products per page and we have 7,000+ products.HOT TIP: It may be easier to find what you are looking for by using Search or browse through the products by Category using the Categories Buttons to the LEFT.
Books & Patterns
Soft ExpressionsPacific Time Zone: Monday to Friday 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM**NOTE**SHIPPING TIMES MAY VARY BUT AVERAGE 5 TO 7 BUSINESS DAYS
e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com and questions are welcome!


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Sreesanth said, "Next ball he was beaten and I said, 'is this the King Charles Lara? Who is this impostor, moving around nervously? I should have kept my mouth shut for the next ball - mind you, it was a length ball - Lara just pulled it over the church beyond the boundary! He is a true legend."
You said picking Pothas at 6 allows Flintoff to bat 7 and us to play 4 bowlers.
Therefore, only 3 of 8-11 are bowlers - so I'm assuming the other will be a specialist batsman.
marc71178 - President and founding member of AAAS - we don't only appreciate when he does well, but also when he's not quite so good!
Anyone want to join the Society?
Beware the evils of Kit-Kats - they're immoral apparently.
Flintoff will be @ 7 he will be a bowler, plus Hoggard, Panesar, Jones, Harmo to bring up the rear. So actually the same 5 bowlers will be around..
Four specialist bowlers, not an all-rounder like Flintoff. I don't know if you were joking or seriously thought he wanted a batsman at 8.
Supported XI
Tamim Iqbal, JA Burns, UT Khawaja, *SPD Smith, Mahmudullah, C de Grandhomme, +AT Carey, PJ Cummins, Rashid Khan, Mustafizur Rahman, JP Behrendorff.
RIP Fardin. RIP Craigos. RIP Prince.
england need more thatn a wicket keeper, they need some inform batsman, they also want the ashes!!
James Foster is pretty good in ICC... well in my game
From Wikipaedia : "....Geraint Owen Jones MBE (born 14 July 1976, Kundiawa, Papua New Guinea) is a member of the England cricket team. Until August 2006 he was the first-choice wicketkeeper for England in both Test and One-day cricket, but is now behind Chris Read. He plays county cricket for Kent.
Jones moved to Australia with his parents, who were originally from Wales, soon after he was born. He grew up in Toowoomba, Queensland and lived in Australia until he was 22.......".
Another Aussie discard.
Last edited by McKanga; 04-01-2007 at 12:51 AM. Reason: spelling error
There are currently 1 users browsing this thread. (0 members and 1 guests)


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Ella Purnell Gossip
Ella Purnell gossip, latest news, photos, and video.
My Katniss
Jodelle Ferland dressed up as Katniss Everdeen for Halloween and posted the photo up on Twitter the other day (click here to see) and everyone lost their sh-t wondering if she'd been cast as the heroine of The Hunger Games. I'm sure she's a lovely girl, but Ferland is not my Katniss. Full Story


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If Kristen Stewart ever saw "Vampires Suck," she'd be scarred for life.
No name newcomer Jenn Proske has K Stew down pat -- from her fluttering downcast eyes to her crooked little lip-biting trick, even the mannered way Miss "Twilight" fiddles with her hair.
Seriously, Miss Proske, well done.
Pity the movie she pulls of this mean, uncanny impersonation in bears the too apt title "Vampires Suck."
It's from the duo who gave us "Disaster Movie" and "Date Movie" and "Meet the Spartans" and a lot of other lame parodies that Fox unleashes whenever there's a dead spot on the cinema calendar. Late August certainly qualifies.
"Suck" is a straight "Twilight" parody, a scene-by-scene vamp of the Stephenie Meyer vampire movies, with the odd "True Blood," "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," "Gossip Girl," Kardashian and Lady Gaga gag tossed in. Even by the standards of these movies, which rely on an onslaught of jokey references -- a couple a minute -- to float, "Suck" sinks.
Edward ( Matt Lanter) and "Becca" (Proske) are the ill-fated lovers this time. Edward's family? The "Sullens." They all live in "Sporks" Washington, where the teen girl motto is "Once you go bat, you never go back." Jacob the teen wolf (Chris Riggi) has been reduced to a shirtless gay joke.
It's the sort of movie where "finger food" is offered at a party. And it's fingers. Haw.
A few snarky remarks about "teen angst," a funny spoiler scene where characters walk out of a "Twilight" movie and give away the plot to the whole series, cracks about Edward's "big hair and constipated look," that's about it.
Winter Park native Arielle Kebel ("Aquamarine") is one of the fanged fiends.
Diedrich Bader and Ken Jeong are the only other faces I recognized. Jeong, whose screen appearances were, in order, "The Hangover," " Role Models, " "The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard, " "All About Steve," "Couples Retreat," "Furry Vengeance" and now this, needs a better agent. That's not a career tumble, that's a plummet.
And Jason Friedberg and Aaron Seltzer? Guys, you're making this parody business look awfully hard. So much to work with, and this is the best you could come up with?
See for Yourself
Vampires Suck
Cast: Matt Lanter, Diedrich Bader, Ken Jeong.
Directors: Aaron Seltzer, Jason Friedberg
Running time: 1 hour, 25 minutes
Industry Rating: PG-13 for crude sexual content, comic violence, language and teen partying.


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Albert Camus's Algerian Chronicles appeared in 1957, at the height of French turmoil over the rebellious and violent Algerian independence movement. At the time the book received little notice in France, and with the exception of some of the individual essays, this translation by Arthur Goldhammer represents its first appearance in English.
It has not, for the most part, been regarded as one of Camus's "important" works, a list that would include novels such as "The Stranger," "The Plague," or "The Fall" and philosophical works such as "The Myth of Sisyphus." This is, perhaps, an oversight. At a historical moment when it seems crucial to the human prospect to think intelligently about terrorism and other forms of political violence, the thinking Camus does in Algerian Chronicles may strike us, if we open ourselves to it, as necessary, cogent, and sane.
At the time of its publication the book left many not only unconvinced but unhappy. Looking back from the perspective of 1969, Conor Cruise O'Brien expressed the view of many on the Left when he called it "a depressing volume." O'Brien thought "Algerian Chronicles" represented the moral failure of a writer and moralist he had had high hopes for and wanted deeply to admire.
Like Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and many others, O'Brien blamed Camus for failing to support the revolutionaries who had fought for Algeria's independence – an independence that, to the surprise of many, had been granted in 1962. Camus did not live to see this happen. He had been killed in a car accident in 1960, three years after receiving the Nobel Prize for literature.
Nor, mercifully, did he live to witness the ongoing internecine violence that continued to plague Algeria for decades after independence, most brutally during the 1990s, when over 100,000 people died in a chaotic period of guerrilla fighting and factional massacres of civilians. Perhaps O'Brien's assessment would have been different if he had foreseen this slaughter. If nothing else it confirmed that, even if some of Camus's reasons for insisting that Algeria must remain part of France could be called in question, he was at the very least correct to insist that independence would be anything but a cure-all for that troubled former colony.
Camus was born in Algeria to a family of French pied-noirs, descendants of the original European colonizers of Algeria. Relations between the pied-noirs and Algeria's majority Arab population were tense, largely due to French economic policies that had exacerbated and in some cases created the inhuman poverty under which many of the Arabs existed – a poverty that is described in moving detail the first section of "Algerian Chronicles," "The Misery of Kabylia," which was written during the 1930s, when, as Camus said later, "almost no one in France was interested in" Algeria. This set of essays, and much of the writing elsewhere in the book, is more than sufficient to show that those who view Camus as a former pied-noir who cared only about the fate of that group were simply mistaken.
Indeed, "Algerian Chronicles" gives ample evidence that Camus felt genuine outrage and deep compassion about the suffering of Algeria's Arab and Berber populations, and for every statement that makes him sound like an apologist for France (and such statements are, admittedly, present) there are several that take the French government to task for its wrongdoings and demand that it radically alter its policies. He was particularly outspoken regarding French military attacks on civilian populations and also regarding the widespread use of torture, both of which he viewed as absolutely unjustifiable.
Indeed, many in France called Camus a traitor on account of his sympathy with the Algerian Arabs. When he returned to Algeria in 1956 to speak against the killing of civilians at a public meeting – after having been forced to leave for having been so outspoken in his criticism of French authority there – a mob of French "ultracolonialists" gathered outside the meeting and angrily chanted "Death to Camus." The text of that speech is included in this volume as "Call for a Civilian Truce in Algeria.")
But the main movement in favor of Algerian independence, the Front de Libération Nationale (FLN), was equally guilty of human rights violations. They too sometimes used torture, and they too committed acts of terrorism against innocent civilians. Camus's family, who still lived in Algeria, were among the potential targets of these terrorist acts, and some of the rebels accused him of a kind of self-interest in denouncing the terrorists; but what is clear from "Algerian Chronicles" is that Camus's compassion could be triggered by the suffering of any human being, and that his political and moral concern was with any innocent person who might be made the victim of violence in the name of any political cause. Indeed, his unhappiness with the evident disregard for human rights on both sides in the Algerian conflict sent him into a long period of silence, during which he said he nothing out of fear that whatever he might say would be used as ammunition by one side or the other:
"When the fate of men and women who share one's own blood is linked directly or indirectly to articles that one writes so effortlessly in the comfort of one's study, then one has a duty to weigh the pros and cons before taking up one's pen. For my own part, while I remain sensitive to the risk that, in criticizing the course of the rebellion, I give aid and comfort to the most insolent instigators of the Algerian tragedy, I am also afraid that, by retracing the long history of French errors, I am, with no risk to myself, supplying alibis to the criminal madmen who would toss grenades into crowds of innocent people who happen to be my kin."
Instead he tried to maintain a sensible middle position, breaking his silence occasionally to call on both sides to stop violating the rights of the innocent and to declare a "civilian truce" that would have protected all noncombatants from being made targets of violence.
The civilian truce was seen only as a first step, but Camus was probably right that it was a necessary first step. Neither side, though, was interested in implementing it: each used the misdeeds of the other to justify their own. Camus's sane and compassionate position, meanwhile, seemed to satisfy no one. The extremists on each side saw Camus as having aligned himself with their enemies (that is how extremists, after all, tend to see moderates). Or else they saw him as having chosen no side at all – or having tried to have it both ways – and so accused him of indecisiveness, cowardice, or naïve idealism.
"Algerian Chronicles" may have suffered the fate of being published at a time when those who most needed to hear what it had to say were entirely unable to read it with an open mind. It is possible that, now that some decades have passed, it will find a second life.
We Americans would be well advised to pay it serious attention. After more than a decade in which the United States has chosen to respond to the specter of lawless terrorism with forms of violence some have regarded as state-sanctioned terrorism – years during which, as in the Algerian war, the violence inflicted by each side has been used to justify the violence inflicted by the other, and during which the use of torture by American military and security forces has been not only condoned but applauded by a large segment of the American citizenry – Camus's reflections on these subjects seem to address us directly:
The reprisals against the civilian population of Algeria and the use of torture against the rebels are crimes for which we all bear a share of responsibility. That we have been able to do such things is a humiliating reality that we must henceforth face. Meanwhile, we must refuse to justify these methods on any grounds whatsoever, including effectiveness. Once one begins to justify them, even indirectly, no rules or values remain.
If nothing else, "Algerian Chronicles" brings us closer to Camus the man. Like Camus's other posthumously published writings – the unfinished novel "The First Man" in particular – it helps to remind us that the question of Algeria loomed in Camus's mind long before it seized the attention of France as a whole and that it first appeared there not as a political question, nor even as a question of identity (assuming that those two can be meaningfully distinguished), but as a sensual reality, a place whose sounds, smells, and landscapes remained with Camus throughout his life. Camus's feeling of doubleness and isolation, his sense of being a "stranger" in French society, stem from the dual reality of being both French and Algerian, a duality that would have been difficult to reconcile even if he had not lived during a time when the communities in which these identities were grounded were in such prolonged and violent contention with each other.
"For Algeria," he once wrote, "I have unbridled passion and I surrender to the pleasure of loving: Can one love a country like a woman?" But Algeria was, for Camus, not only the beloved and elusive Other. It was an aspect of the self, not only mentally and emotionally but physically, so that he felt, quite literally, that the struggles that were taking place there were tearing him apart.
"Believe me," he wrote to a friend during these years, "when I tell you that Algeria is where I hurt at this moment, as others feel pain in their lungs."
Troy Jollimore is Associate Professor of Philosophy at California State University, Chico. His most recent books are Love's Vision and At Lake Scugog: Poems, both from Princeton University Press.


text:
I see everyone is getting a kick out of the zombie Patrick that I submitted earlier, and because Halloween is getting closer, I wanted to fill some fun requests that I think folks would enjoy. Here is "how to draw a chibi zombie", step by step and like you see, it is going to be one fun and exciting tutorial to tackle. I had so much fun making this chibi zombie and I know that you guys will love it too. You can add your own personal tweaks or touches to personalize the drawing concept, and if you choose to do so, you definitely have to make sure that you submit your finished work. I will be coming back with more drawing fun, for now enjoy learning "how to draw a chibi zombie". Adios people, and peace out!
DragoArt members upload artwork and drawing tutorials! They are also allowed to leave comments on tutorials, profiles, etc. Many more features, as well; it's way better than just being a boring guest! Register Now!


text:
Franklin, North Carolina
2019 S-14 Supplement contains:
Local legislation current through Ordinance passed 10-7-19
and State legislation current to ALS 2018 #5
95 E. Main St.
Franklin, NC 28734
This Code of Ordinances and/or any other documents that appear on this site may not reflect the most current legislation adopted by the Municipality. American Legal Publishing Corporation provides these documents for informational purposes only. These documents should not be relied upon as the definitive authority for local legislation. Additionally, the formatting and pagination of the posted documents varies from the formatting and pagination of the official copy. The official printed copy of a Code of Ordinances should be consulted prior to any action being taken.
For further information regarding the official version of this Code of Ordinances or other documents posted on this site, please contact the Municipality directly or contact American Legal Publishing toll-free at 800-445-5588.
Hosted by: American Legal Publishing Corporation


text:
Home Tags Jio Coin Guide
© Copyright 2018 - Property of Jiocoinico.netHIGH-RISK WARNING: Trading cryptocurrencies carries a high level of risk that may not be suitable for all investors. Leverage creates additional risk and loss exposure. Before you decide to trade on cryptocurrencies, carefully consider your investment objectives, experience level, and risk tolerance. Educate yourself on the risks associated with trading cryptocurrencies, and seek advice from an independent financial or tax advisor if you have any questions.


text:
Body in Rocky Mountain National Park may be Texan
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK – Rocky Mountain National Park officials say a body found by two people snowshoeing in the park may be that of a missing Texas man.
Park officials said Tuesday the body was found against a tree in a thick timbered area, about 100 feet off from a summer hiking trail.
Larimer County coroner's officials were conducting an autopsy to confirm whether it was the body of 39-year-old Troy Green of San Antonio.
Green had come to Colorado to attend a conference. His wife called Denver police when she didn't hear from him Thursday. On Friday, park rangers found Green's rental car at the Bear Lake parking lot.
The park is about 65 miles northwest of Denver.
Start a dialogue, stay on topic and be civil.
If you don't follow the rules, your comment may be deleted.


text:
As a CFP Board-Registered Program, your institution has access to variety of tools created by CFP Board to help you educate and promote your financial planning educational programs to prospective students. Below you will find a variety of marketing tools, including:
These new advertisements feature the new CFP® (with plaque design) mark introduced with CFP Board's Public Awareness Campaign and are designed to be customized with your program's information. Each ad layout is available in several different formats, including print ads, emailers, online banners and posters.
To download customizable PDFs of these ads, click on the images below.
Advertisements for traditional students:
Advertisement for career changers:
To download customizable PDFs of these ads, click on the images above. High-resolution artwork for the ads is available from CFP Board upon request to contact CFP Board's Marketing Manager, Paul Horenkamp, at email@example.com.
CFP Board's booklets and brochures may be downloaded in electronic format at no charge from CFP Board's website and printed and reproduced as needed. CFP Board requests that the publications be reproduced in their entirety. If you wish to use only a portion of a publication, please complete the online Copyright Permission Request Form.
CFP Board will continue to send single copies of brochures and booklets to consumers, candidates and other individuals directly at no cost. Therefore, if any registered program would rather refer its students directly to CFP Board to obtain publications, it may do so.
If you wish to order hard copies of any CFP Board publication available in a printed version, contact CFP Board's Marketing Manager, Paul Horenkamp, at email@example.com or call 800-487-1497. Please indicate the type of publication, quantity needed, your contact information, shipping address and payment information (MasterCard, Visa, American Express or check - payable to CFP Board). Orders placed with payment by check will not be processed until payment is received by CFP Board.
CFP Board encourages you to provide your new and graduating students with these messages from CFP Board's CEO, Kevin Keller. To request customizations specific to your program or students, please contact CFP Board's Marketing Manager, Paul Horenkamp, at firstname.lastname@example.com.
Prior to distribution or publication of news releases and articles using these templates, please submit final versions to CFP Board for review at firstname.lastname@example.com.
The Center is creating an academic home for the financial planning profession.
Learn More
More News
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phone: 800-487-1497 (Toll-Free) / 202-379-2200 | fax: 202-379-2299 | firstname.lastname@example.com
We welcome your feedback and invite you to complete a brief 5-question survey to help us improve your experience on CFP.net.
It's easy to participate and will take less than 2 minutes:
Click the "Yes" button below to continue your visit on CFP.net as intended. When finished, simply retrieve and complete the questionnaire that will appear in a new browser window.
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Twilight Central
I've lost track of what day this is. Every day, they're all over my city.
Brief recap of last night since you all probably need to know what Robert Pattinson was doing? Have heard from multiple sources that they went to karaoke after dinner. Great. The Twihards have a new favourite activity. Karaoke!
Today it's back to work. Here are Kristen Stewart and Nikki Reed this morning heading out together, always inseparable whenever possible. Love it. And Nikki's stock just shot up for wearing her glasses out. Eyes must still be stinging from the previous evening…? Some people refuse, absolutely REFUSE, to be seen in public with glasses on. Not Nikki. So my girlcrush on her is growing.
Also attached – Rachelle Lefevre, full Victoria blazing red, grabbing some coffee. Her scarves are beautiful. I want.
More photos coming later this afternoon.
Photos by PunkD Images


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For player characters EditThis section concerns content exclusive to World of Warcraft.
For player characters, "Ambassador" is a title obtained by gaining exalted reputation with all five home cities of your faction:
- For the Alliance: Stormwind, Ironforge, Darnassus, Gnomeregan Exiles and Exodar.
- For the Horde Orgrimmar, Thunder Bluff, Undercity, Darkspear Trolls and Silvermoon.
The title precedes the player's name, in the following format:
- Ambassador <name>
External links Edit
For mobs and NPCsEdit
Some mobs and NPCs, will have their name or title composed of either "Ambassador", "Emissary", "Envoy" or "Speaker" which usually means they are diplomats from a faction or organization to some other faction or organization.
Notable ambassadorsEdit
Community content is available under CC-BY-SA unless otherwise noted.


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Stressed At Work? Build Yourself An Anti-Stress Arsenal
By Kelly Gurnett
Sometimes there's no escaping stress on the job. Deadlines come one on top of the other, bosses start yelling, and as much as you'd love to just up and leave, fleeing isn't an option if you'd still like to collect a paycheck.
How's a harried worker to avoid being overwhelmed?
Create a solid anti-stress arsenal. You may not have control over the demands of your job, but you do have control over yourself and, to a certain extent, your immediate surroundings.
Here are some must-have items to keep you from going under when things get hectic:
First Things First
One of the best ways to combat stress is making sure you're not unintentionally adding to it. This starting checklist can go a long way towards making things less frantic than they need to be:
Organization, organization, organization. Not only does a messy desk make it infinitely harder to keep on top of your tasks or find things when you need them; a visually messy environment makes you feel more stressed than a neat one.
Use inboxes, folders, and trays to keep the piles on your desk in order. Know where your action items are at all times. Make things easier on yourself by having a workspace that's under control - even when everything around you isn't.
Light. A dim workspace can make you feel groggy and create eye strain. Make sure your work areas are well-lit (but not too bright). Soft, indirect lighting is a good way to go.
Comfort. The human body wasn't meant to sit in one position for eight hours a day - and it will let you know that. Poor posture and repetitive movements can lead to everything from back pain to tension headaches.
Fortunately, there's an ergonomic everything now - keyboards, mouse pads, footrests, chair cushions. Get some comfy gear and visit resource sites to make sure you're not stressing out your body in addition to your brain.
Fuel. Stock your desk with healthy, energy-packed snacks and be sure to drink plenty of (noncarbonated, non-sugary) fluids throughout the day. Flying and crashing on waves of caffeine and vending machine candy won't make any day easier.
Toolkit Must-Haves
Alright, you've got the groundwork laid. Here are some basic tools to have on hand for when the crazy times hit:
Happiness-Inducing Pictures. Whether it's a collage of your beloved pets or a screensaver of your favorite vacation spot, surround yourself with images of the people, places and things that make you smile. It will lift your spirits and can help you hang in there by reminding you you have a (much pleasanter) life outside of work.
Quality Tunes. If you can wear headphones, crank up whatever makes you feel a little less stabby - whether it's some soothing Michael Bublé or the most cathartic Rage Against the Machine you can find. If you can't wear headphones, try playing some (office-appropriate) radio (at a respectable level). Music makes the time pass faster and can be a huge mood booster.
Indulgent Drinks. No, I'm not condoning adult indulgent drinks. (This is a professional community here.) I'm talking more along the lines of exotic chai, soothing green tea, or rich hot chocolate. Sipping a comfort beverage in the midst of a hectic day can calm your nerves and reinvigorate you.
Stretching. Even with an ergonomic setup, sitting at a computer for eight hours straight builds up tension throughout your body. Take a pause every now and then to release some of that pent-up stress. Let your clenched jaw go slack. Stretch out your keyboard-cramped hands and wrists. Find some great stretches (and exercises) you can do right at your desk.
Breathing. It's one of the oldest tricks in the relaxation book because it works. Try some of these deep breathing exercises to regain your physical and mental composure.
Moving. It's easy to get sucked into a stressful project and lose all sense of space and time. Physically stepping away from your desk can help clear your head and reset your composure when you've entered the work wormhole.
Take a walk up to the second floor to deliver that memo, stroll over to the water cooler, or even just stand up and shake out your limbs for a few seconds - anything to break your concentration and release a little of that stressed-out energy.
Bathroom Breaks. Don't laugh. They work. When all else fails, no one can fault you for excusing yourself and disappearing into the restroom for a minute or two. If things really start to overwhelm you, give yourself a chance to escape and pull yourself back together.
What's in your anti-stress arsenal?
Kelly Gurnett, a.k.a. "Cordelia," runs the blog Cordelia Calls It Quits, where she documents her attempts to rid her life of the things that don't matter and focus more on the things that do. You can follow her on Twitter and Facebook.
Next:The Best Career Advice Of All Time: Shut Up
Don't Miss: Companies Hiring Now
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- How To Stick It Out At A Job You Hate
- Why Bosses Should Welcome These Taboo Activities
- 5 Things Never To Tell (Or Do With) Your Boss


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Avalanche to honor Alex Tanguay for NHL Game No. 1,000
Alex Tanguay came to Colorado as a teenaged former member of the Halifax Mooseheads and an Avalanche first-round draft choice.
A little more than 15 years later, the Avalanche will honor him before the Wednesday night game against Pittsburgh, on the occasion of his 1,000th NHL game.
A little over half, or 528, will have been with Colorado during his two stints with the Avalanche.


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Emirates has launched its daily non-stop service from Dubai to Houari Boumediene Airport. It is the 22nd gateway for Emirates in Africa and the airline's 130th international destination.
"The launch of our operations in Algiers will provide a wealth of new travel options for customers in Algeria, who will be able to fly non-stop to our industry leading hub in Dubai and conveniently connect to points across the Middle East, the Asian Subcontinent, the Far East and Australasia," said Adel Al Redha, Executive Vice President Engineering and Operations.
Travelers to Algiers will fly on Airbus A330-200 aircraft, with a three class configuration featuring Emirates' award-winning service and passenger comforts, including hundreds of channels of on-demand inflight entertainment, the ability to send and receive emails and text messages, meals prepared by gourmet chefs and superior service from the airline's international cabin crew recruited from over 130 countries.
"With the start of our daily non-stop service from Dubai, Emirates looks forward to introducing a whole new audience to Algeria, bringing leisure travellers from around the globe to experience this country's unique attractions. We are confident that Algeria will be a popular destination for business and leisure travellers alike, boosting tourism and opening new markets for business and trade." added Mr Al Redha.
On board today's inaugural were Emirates' Executive Vice President Engineering and Operations, Adel Al Redha, Emirates' Divisional Senior Vice President Planning and Research, Adnan Kazim, Emirates' Divisional Senior Vice President Group Security, Dr Abdullah Al Hashimi, Emirates' Senior Vice President Commercial Operations for Africa, Jean Luc Grillet, and Emirates Senior Vice President Cargo, Planning and Freighters, Hiran Perera.
Their special guests on the flight included the Algerian Ambassador to the UAE, Mr Hamid Chebira, Global Head-DVP, VFS (GCC) LLC, Pradeep Suvarna, and Managing Director of Michelin, Prashant Prabhu.
The new daily non-stop flight to Algiers, operated by an A330-200 with a belly hold capacity of 12 tonnes, will take Emirates SkyCargo's weekly cargo capacity into and out of the country to more than 160 tonnes. Imports into Algiers include a wide range of manufactured goods, while the top exports include frozen fish, lobsters, oil and gas equipment and palm oil.
Starting 1st March, EK 757 will depart Dubai daily at 0845hrs and arrive at HouariBoumediene Airport at 1330hrs. The return flight, EK 758, departs Algiers at 1535hrs and lands in Dubai at 0055hrs the next day.
Algiers the capital and largest city of Algeria, is located in the west side of a bay of the Mediterranean Sea. The city is home to numerous attractions, including the Great Mosque, the National Library, Martyrs Square, the Bardo Museum and multiple monuments and forts.
It is also home to a rich variety of architecture and a vibrant cultural scene with a diverse heritage of Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and French influences,. The country also boasts some of the world's most spectacular coastline as well as vast mountainous and desert landscapes.


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asmallgrin needed a new logo design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 75 designs submitted by 32 freelance designers.
Logo for website involved in pricing home loans quickly. Needs to be clean and profession and around 350x85 pixels.
Pricing Express
Accepted File Formats:
Standard Web Formats (.jpg, .gif or .png); Layered Formats (.psd or .tiff)
For additional information you can read the introductory information at www.pricingexpress.com. Blue/creme & possibly red/green accents, but we're not committed to any color combination at this point. A screen capture of the application that the logo will be used with can be found here: http://img143.imageshack.us/my.php?…ekd2.jpg. You will also see a copy of the old logo up for disposal at the site.
Will check often to see if you have any questions.
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.


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$0 to $250
On average this handyman work project costs $250 in Flagstaff, AZ. Depending on your contractor, prices can range from $240 to $250. When pricing out your handyman work project make sure to get at least 3 quotes to compare prices and get the best value. Comparable projects nearby include Sink Install in Phoenix, Remove Ceiling Tiles in Valleywide, and Trampoline in Surprise.
Handyman Work: I am looking for a handyman who has his own tools to do some small jobs at a rental property.
- Two window screens to be measured, cut and installed.
- Two mailbox posts to be re-cemented into the ground.
- Need a pest "home-seal" done on the home (interior and exterior).
Excerpt Responses:
More cost information & deals:
$240 to $250
Handyman Coupons in Williams, AZ25% Off - 25% Off Labor
Install pedastal sink
Project Cost: $168
I am installing air-conditioning systems into a building with ceiling tile. Need somebody to remove roughly 1
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In ground trampoline. We have a 15 trampoline we would to have installed in-ground.
Project Cost: $2700
Need a handy man to patch nail holes in ceiling, fix a crack in ceiling, touch up paint, and fix outside gate
Project Cost: $320
Need Dog Door Installer I am looking for an someone to install a dog door into a stucco wall leading to the
Project Cost: $155
-trash Haul Cleans Up-saturday to Sunday- We are moving this weekend. We have various odds and ends including
Project Cost: $321
Handyman needed for multiple jobs in the Phoenix area. Handyman will be closing down stores...i.e., removing
Project Cost: $233
Need a Handyman Trim bushes front yard Fix toilet leaking in tank Fix chain on living room overhead
Project Cost: $200
Install new Side Yard Door Gate - See Photo I want to replace my side yard door /gate Height and Width is in
Project Cost: $600
Help Puttingfixing BED HELP NEEDED ASAP! I have a bed with all the pieces, however the wood on the base
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Move washer and dryer to new location and hookup. Will also need vice versa. Short haul , 85284 to 85048
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look for handyman for 2 small jobs
Look for handyman to fix an existing pipe. Exposed pipe that
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Create your own account on Dermpedia and you can do any of the following:
Case contributed by Dr. Eric Burks and Nada Farhat (Lahey Clinic).
The patient was a 17 year male who presented with a painless right second toe mass. MRI showed a diffusely enhancing well-circumscribed lesion measuring 0.9 x 0.7 cm.


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- Options
- Detail Images
Item # POC001VItem # POC001V
Delivering reliable tailbone and hip protection without compromising the ability to move, POC's Hip VPD 2.0 Short uses state-of-the-art technology. Its high-tech VPD 2.0 (Visco-Elastic Polymer Dough) is a pliable, lightweight material that offers industry-leading impact absorption.
When introduced to an impact, VPD immediately stiffens, but does not lose its ability to absorb energy. Just as importantly, VPD permits a sleek, slim design that fits easily under shorts to allow excellent freedom of movement. Also ensuring comfort is stretchy, ventilated mesh that ventilates and prevents overheating. For coccyx protection, POC provides a removable tailbone protector.
The Hip VPD 2.0 Shorts have a built in chamois for pedaling comfort, and POC makes them in three sizes; Small, Medium, and Large.
- VPD protection panels
- Open mesh main body fabric
- Built-in chamois
View more Men's Liners
Reviews & Community
Good Protection
- Familiarity: I've used it several times
- Fit: True to size
- Size Bought: XS/S
I decided to purchase these after a side fall directly on my hip. Would have saved me a month of discomfort had I had them before my fall. Fit good and provide good protection. There isn't much between your hip and the skin to cushion so this does the trick.
POC Hip VPD 2.0 Shorts
I bought this short (size Small) to protect my hip when skiing. I failed 4-5 times on my hip during my ski trip and felt nothing. This short worked well for me.
Good Protection but Chamois is minimal
- Familiarity: I returned this product before using it
I have several POC products and really like them. These shorts had pads in the right place to protect hips and tailbone. However the chamois was really minimal. I ended up returning these.
Nice protection
- Familiarity: I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions
Have worn these on a few shuttle and downhill trips. Overall very nice pair. Fortunately, I have not fallen onto these yet, but at least provides peace of mind. The main pads are not removable for some reason so I hand wash and hang dry just to be safe.
Not durable
- Familiarity: I've put it through the wringer
- Fit: True to size
- Size Bought: medium
Really liked them on the first ride, but completely fell apart in the wash. Wish they lasted because they are pretty comfortable to ride in and they saved my ass a few times.
Great Product
- Familiarity: I've used it several times
Comfortable, breathable and lightweight. And will protect your **S...
Huck your meat
- Familiarity: I've used it several times
- Fit: True to size
- Size Bought: Medium
The POC Hip VPD's are a pretty cool piece of protective gear. I use them for riding bike parks and DH shuttles. The protection they offer is excellent, and the VPD is soft enough that these aren't super bulky under your baggies. That being said, they do feel a bit cumbersome, and because of that I don't wear them for trail rides. The fit is true to size. I can't really comment on the Chamois as I haven't worn them for any long rides.
Great Product
- Familiarity: I've used it several times
These shorts are comfortable, light and breathable. I would highly recommend them. Fives stars all the way...
Saved my ass...literally....
- Familiarity: I've put it through the wringer
This was my first POC VPD 2.0 product and I have only had good experiences with it so far. I originally bought this for skiing and it served me well. I had some nice falls onto ice and some hidden rocks, one fall was from about 10 feet up when my binding released on the hard landing, and my arse was unscathed despite a big impact on my tailbone. I remember bracing for the pain after I landed, with memories of my last "tailboner" fresh in my mind, where I was in so much pain I couldn't even move, let alone collect my skis and get to bottom of the hill. But the agony never came, and I skied away like nothing had happened. That incident alone was worth the price of admission.
These shorts were not tested much by falls from my bike, but I recently fell doing about 40 kmh on my "all terrain" in line skates on concrete and I think the only parts of my body that weren't injured were covered in VPD 2.0, specifically the long knee/shin guards and the shorts. I ended up with a torn biceps tendon, four broken ribs, a contused lung, road rash all up my right side that looked like hamburger meat, multiple bruises and lacerations, and bleeding in my abdomen, likely from a liver laceration. I'm already on the mend, but I have since ordered the VPD 2.0 jacket to complete my body armour.
Anyway, they fit well, don't impede flexibility or range of motion, they are light, and they do the job. Highly recommended.
Very good but could easily be better
- Familiarity: I've used it several times
For reference, I'm a semi-fast cross country mountain biker in Breckenridge, CO, and I ride in about 5 races per summer from 15 miles to 50 miles.
Every time I've fallen off my mountain bike onto my hips, I end up with a rash that's exactly where these pads are. And I mean exact. POC put some thought into where to put the hip pads; the size and location really are 100% perfect.
I removed the tailbone protection pad immediately; I have no idea what that's for. Some sport that I don't participate in, obviously. Fortunately it's designed to be removable, so removing it wasn't a big deal.
The VPD 2.0 material is amazing. At first they feel like a hard shell and I can't imagine pedaling for 2-3 hours with these shorts on, but then the pads soften up from body heat, and before I know it, they fit perfectly to my hips. I rode for about an hour with them this morning, and they feel great. You know the pads are there, but they're not bothersome.
The built-in chamois is really poor. That puts me in a dilemma: what do I wear with these shorts? Often I like to wear baggy mountain biking shorts, which usually don't have a chamois. So do I wear 3 layers of shorts - the POC VPD 2.0 shorts, plus spandex bike shorts with a good chamois, plus baggy mountain biking shorts? Or do I just live with the bad shamois and wear these under the baggy shorts? I guess time will tell what I like, but I wish they had just put a decent chamois in there. Doesn't seem like too much to ask for a $120 pair of shorts. I think when I'm alone I'll wear them with a good chamois bib short and call it good, but when riding with friends, spandex is a faux pas unless you're in a race. (Yes, I made the rules up.)
The fabric is good - they feel durable and breathable, though I'm concerned about what having to wear 3 layers of shorts will do to the breathability.
Bottom line: pricey and flawed, but I'm excited to ride and race with these shorts all summer.
If you've ever looped out doing a wheelie or manual, you know why a tailbone protector is necessary. I've been laid out on the trail, unable to move because I was in so such pain. Then I had to crawl back to the trailhead because every time I tried to stand up I almost passed out. I thought I broke my back , so I drove straight to the emergency room. It turns out I suffered a sharp blow to my tailbone--no damage, just terrible pain. After leaving the hospital with an injection in my back, I noticed my seat rails were bent at a 90 degree angle. However...the bad chamois is a deal breaker for me.


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You are here
State Trade and Export Promotion (STEP) Grant Initiative, CFDA# 59.061
State Trade and Export Promotion (STEP) Grant Program
The State Trade and Export Promotion Grant Program (STEP) is a 3-year pilot trade and export initiative to make matching-fund grants for states to assist "eligible small business concerns," enter and succeed in the international marketplace. Services under the STEP Program are funded in part by SBA, but are provided to eligible small business concerns – or "STEP Clients" - by STEP grant recipients located in most states and territories, and the District of Columbia.
About the Program
The program's objectives are to increase the number of small businesses that are exporting, and to increase the value of exports for those small businesses that are currently exporting.
STEP services are managed and provided at the local level by state government organizations. The program is managed at the national level by the U.S. Small Business Administration's Office of International Trade. At the state level, The Program has total Federal funding of $60,000,000, for use over a two-year period.
STEP was authorized by Section 1207 of the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010. Under the statute, the 50 states, District of Columbia, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa, are eligible to compete for award of matching-fund grants. The ratio of Federal to state matching funds is 75% to 25%, except for high exporting states, for which the ratio of Federal to state matching funds is 65% to 35%, and territorial possessions of the Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa, for which matching funds requirements are waived to a maximum of $200,000.
Program Facts
Under the first grant competition in 2011, SBA awarded fifty-one cooperative agreements, totaling $28,977,094. Under the second competition in 2012, the Agency awarded fifty-two cooperative agreements, totaling $29,996,182. Individual State project award amounts varied, based on proposed project plans and budgets. In the first grant competition, the average award value was $568,000. In the second grant competition, the average award value was $577,000.
How to Find STEP State Service Providers
- Award amounts, program descriptions, and points of contact for all states, listed alphabetically[link]
- Scroll down to the interactive map entitled "Current Grants by State," and click on individual states for award amounts, program descriptions, and points of contact.
- Contact firstname.lastname@example.com
Current Grants by State
Click any State to view its details


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Hey guys! Here's a tutorial that will complete the mini-series of Christmas pets. We'll be learning "how to draw a Christmas cat", step by step. I had so much fun drawing this little guy, especially basing the colors similar to the Christmas dog. I know lots of families that will be dressing up their cat or dog for the holidays, hence the reason why I did these tutorials. Sketching this kitty varied in so many versions that it was hard to pick. I eventually landed with this and began face lifting the kitty into what you see know. I spent around an hour and a half sketching, inking, and coloring him into completion. So much fun resulted from this and as well as having a satisfying result. I hope y'all will enjoy this tutorial as much as I had creating it. Don't forget to get a drawing pencil set to start and maybe a few tissues for shading later on (if you have nothing to color with). Take care and rock on!
DragoArt members upload artwork and drawing tutorials! They are also allowed to leave comments on tutorials, profiles, etc. Many more features, as well; it's way better than just being a boring guest! Register Now!


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Good day to all,
My name is Athan Bloom and I have just relocated back to the states after 6 years in Europe. Now that I have children the momentum of religious subjucation is apparent and I am overwhelmed with the surrounding self inflicted ignorance. I have a saying which history proves..
" People will either deny or destroy that which they do not comprehend. In Its place they will build a story or myth which sounds convenient."
I find myself to be a strong Atheist minded individual with a realistic view of life and history. my wife and I have 2 boys 5 and 3 so we are now struggling slightly with the limited non secular private school available in our area. ZERO ..pretty amazing
The Education subject in this country- I feel it is obvious that if you keep the masses uneducated they are easier to control and manipulate. I need something more for them.
I remain fusterated within the manner our country dismantles our first amendment and stomp on the forefathers work to build this non secular established country.
I have joined this site today in hopes that I may be able to acomplish something which can make a difference. My big note to all of you on this site!
Divided we will fall! unlike churches and religions there is no reason to segregate ourselves within groups. History repeats itself but there needs to be a call out to those who are subjugated and are forced to shut up. "There's no reason to feel ashamed that you do not believe in supernatural stories", and it needs to be voiced out loud.
Views: 152
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Hello, Dragoart members - today we will be learning how to draw Cho", step by step. Many also know her as the Bongcheon-Dong. This is one of the toughest drawings/paintings made due to the style of the art of which she was drawn in. Korean comic and manga art are both different in many ways; the face structure is one of them. The chins of Korean art, seems to be bolder than manga art. That being said, I did have a hard time getting the chin in correct proportion. In this tutorial, I will be covering the basics of drawing Cho. I have tried my hardest to simplify her face to make it easier for those who are new-comers in the world of art. Be aware, the second hardest part of this whole drawing/painting, is the blood; way too complex. When coloring the blood, do NOT worry about the shading and lighting of the blood's effects at first. Please get the basic looks of the blood, and then continue with custom details (Shining effects, dark shading, etc.) That is all I would like to share about this lesson. If you want to know about her, then keep on reading. So, to be quite basic, it all started when she was living happy with her daughter, but then her and her husband had a divorce and he took full custody of her child. The ghost is named Cho, and the wife to the man is… well, Cho. When the law was given to the husband, she thought there was nothing more to live for, and jumped out of her window to the apartment complex. I'm not sure, but I think they call it the Bongcheon-Dong ghost because the apartment complex is called Bongcheon-Dong. After the suicide incident, she was then found roaming around the area several times during nightfall. The comic illustrates/represents a scene of a recent incident. The comic is known as a horror comic (Of course,) and has become popular over the years. Sounds interesting? Well take a look at the comic yourself at the site. Go on Google and type in, The Bong Chong Dong Ghost and click the first link, and then click the link on the Deviantart page. Good luck and don't say that I haven't warned you, because I did… just now. Enjoy and good luck with the lesson.
DragoArt members upload artwork and drawing tutorials! They are also allowed to leave comments on tutorials, profiles, etc. Many more features, as well; it's way better than just being a boring guest! Register Now!