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Myasthenia Gravis Treatment
Call for appointment:410-328-4323 410-328-4323
We like to offer the full range of myasthenia gravis treatments to our patients, both medical and surgical. The University of Maryland Medical Center is committed to find options that you're comfortable with while also giving you the best options available.
Medical Treatments
Symptom Management
Pyridostigmine is an anticholinesterase inhibitor that works at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). It prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine. Thus it allows acetylcholine to bind to more muscle receptors and create muscle contractions. Pyridostigmine does not alter myasthenia gravis disease, but provides temporary symptom improvement.
Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease. Immunosuppressant medications work to lower the immune system response in order to prevent the immune attack on the NMJ, thereby limiting muscle fatigue. Common immunosuppressive medications used in myasthenia gravis include: Prednisone, Azathioprine, and Mycophenolate Mofetil.
While on immunosuppressant medication, care should be taken to limit exposure to colds and flus. Vaccinations should be up to date, including the flu and pneumonia vaccines. Practice good hand washing. You may need to follow-up frequently with your health provider to monitor certain blood tests.
Intravenous Immune Globulin
IVIG is an intravenous medication given through a small, peripheral catheter. IVIG binds to the antibodies in your bloodstream and then is filtered out of the body by the kidneys. During the infusion your heart rate and blood pressure are monitored. This medication is used for emergency situations when you have difficulty breathing or swallowing.
Plasmapheresis is a treatment that requires insertion of a large catheter. Your blood is then filtered through a machine to pull out proteins, which contain the antibodies. During the filtering process, your heart rate and blood pressure are monitored. This treatment is used for emergency situations when you have difficulty breathing or swallowing.
Surgical Treatments
Myasthenia gravis may be associated with various abnormalities of the thymus gland.
The thymus gland lies behind the breastbone and is an important part of the immune system in infancy and early childhood.
The relationship between the thymus gland and myasthenia gravis has led to the medical recommendation that the gland be removed (thymectomy). About 10 percent of myasthenia gravis patients have a tumor of the gland (thymoma) and are treated with surgical removal, or thymectomy, as well.
Since the 1940's, myasthenia gravis has been treated by thymectomy with most patients showing some improvement after 6 months to 1 year following surgery.
The degree of improvement after surgery is not predictable, but can be significant. Myasthenia gravis patients who experience more than minimal symptoms should consider thymectomy for treatment. University of Maryland thoracic surgeons offer four different surgical approaches for thymectomy, including some which are minimally invasive, to best meet our patients' needs.
Click on any of the links below to learn more about these surgical approaches, what to expect after surgery and more.
ThymectomyToggle accordion item
The history of thymectomy dates back to 1901 when a thymoma in a patient with myasthenia gravis was described and the association between the thymus gland and myasthenia gravis was first suggested. In 1913, Schumaker and Roth described the fist thymectomy performed 2 years earlier, in 1911, by Sauerbruch.
The exact mechanism by which thymectomy improves the symptoms of myasthenia gravis is not completely understood. Nevertheless, myasthenia gravis patients who undergo thymectomy do experience fewer exacerbations ("flare-ups"), have milder symptoms, require lower medication doses and have a higher chance of complete remission.
Various types of thymectomy procedures are performed at the University of Maryland Medical Center. The Medical Center has recently installed state-of-the-art operating rooms outfitted with the newest videoscopic equipment, earning the title: "OR of the Future."
Our surgeons are experienced in all of the surgical approaches to thymectomy and have performed thymectomy on hundreds of patients safely and successfully.
Thymectomy can be performed using several surgical approaches. Your surgeon will determine the optimal surgical procedure for you, based upon your general health status, physical build and the absence of a thymoma.
Surgical ApproachesToggle accordion item
Full Sternotomy
An incision is made down the middle of the chest through the sternum in order to expose the thymus gland. Once the entire thymus gland is removed, the sternum is repaired with sternal wire and the incision is closed with dissolving sutures. This most invasive technique allows for maximum visualization in situations of suspected thymoma. For this surgery, a chest tube is required for a few days and will be removed before you go home.
Partial Sternotomy
A smaller incision is made down the middle of the chest through only half of the sternum is separated in order to expose the thymus gland. Once the thymus is removed, the sternum is repaired and the skin is closed with dissolving sutures.
This more limited incision is more cosmetic and may be associated with shorter recuperation time than full sternotomy. For this surgery, a chest tube may be required for a few days and will be removed before you go home.
Thoracoscopic Thymectomy
This approach is less invasive than the sternotomy. With the thoracoscopic technique, the surgeon makes 2 to 3 small incisions (3/4 inch in length) on the side of the chest. A small telescope and dissecting instruments are inserted through the holes. The thymus gland is visualized and removed. For this surgery a chest tube is required for a couple of days and will be removed before you go home. Due to the location and the small size of the incisions, this is the most cosmetic approach for thymectomy.
Transcervical Thymectomy
The transcervical approach to thymectomy is the least invasive method. A small horizontal incision is made across the lower part of the neck. The thymus gland is visualized with a scope, which is placed under the sternum. The surgeon works with the scope and small instruments to carefully remove the entire thymus gland. A very small drain is left in the incision for up to 24-36 hours. This technique is associated with the least postoperative pain and has the shortest recovery period; however, it may not be ideal for every patient. Your surgeon will discuss with you whether or not you are a candidate for a transcervical thymectomy.
The timing of when to have a thymectomy depends upon the patient's symptoms and the recommendation of their neurologist. This timing should be coordinated between the patient and all of the physicians involved in their care. The patient should be in the best possible condition for surgery. The patient's myasthenia gravis symptoms should be well controlled with the lowest dose of medication necessary to decrease the chance of a "flare-up" around the time of surgery. The patient should be as physically active as possible and should stop smoking. The myasthenia gravis patient should be as close to his/her ideal weight as possible. Here, obesity can increase surgical risk and may limit the ability to perform a less invasive surgical approach.
The Hospital StayToggle accordion item
While our thoracic surgeons are very familiar with the management of myasthenia gravis, the myasthenia gravis patient will benefit from expert management by Center medical director Charlene Hafer-Macko, a neurologist who has special expertise in caring for patients with myasthenia gravis.
If necessary, available treatments include intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) and plasmapheresis, which can be utilized both before and after the surgery as determined by the neurologist. The neurologist who will be caring for the patient during the hospital stay will communicate with the patient's community neurologist and will keep them informed of their progress during the hospital stay so that they will be prepared to take care of the patient again once they have recovered from thymectomy.
The number of days in the hospital will vary with each patient, surgeon and surgical approach. In most cases, the patient is ready for discharge from the hospital in 1-3 days. Discharge from the hospital may be delayed in the event of a "flare-up" of myasthenia symptoms.
What to Expect After ThymectomyToggle accordion item
Regardless of the approach used, the surgeon will remove the entire thymus gland and send it for analysis. The pathologist will inspect the tissue for thymoma and other abnormal cells. The final pathology report is usually ready in 10-14 days. The surgeon will notify the patient of the results at the surgical follow-up appointment, usually 2-4 weeks after discharge.
The recovery period or time away from work or school varies with the specific surgical approach used and the type of work or activity the patient does regularly. Recuperation from a full sternotomy approach may require up to 3 months off from work. This time period is significantly shorter with less invasive surgical approaches and may be as little as 1-2 weeks with the transcervical thymectomy approach.
It is especially important that patients ensure that their myasthenia gravis symptoms are well controlled in the postoperative period while they are recovering from surgery. The neurologist will be very involved in adjusting the medication dosages for optimum control of symptoms.
Most patients will notice improvement in their myasthenia gravis symptoms after surgery but may still have flare-ups occasionally, although these flare-ups are likely to be milder than they would be without thymectomy. It may take up to 6 to 12 months for patients to notice significant improvement in their symptoms.
The timing of returning to work or school and resuming driving privileges will be decided by both the neurologist and the surgeon. This usually occurs once the patient is well healed from the surgery and their myasthenia gravis is under control.


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FRAXA-DVI - facility to test compounds in Fragile X mice
FRAXA funds a Drug Validation Initiative in Chile run by Dr. Patricia Cogram. At this facility we can run a series of behavioral and anatomical tests of potential therapeutic compounds using FMR1 knockout mice, at very low or no cost. Please see FRAXA-DVI or Dr. Michael Tranfaglia at email@example.com for more information.
Mutant Mouse Models – FMR1 and Paralogs
A Fragile X Mutant Mouse facility was established in 2009 at Baylor College of Medicine. This facility is funded by FRAXA with support from The Meadows Foundation. The BCM facility's goal is to provide convenient and rapid access to new mouse models to investigators worldwide on request for modest costs of shipping. More than a dozen advanced mouse strains are available to researchers; the laboratory of David L. Nelson, PhD, is accepting requests.
Mice are typically provided without restrictions (other than those required by the BCM standard Materials Transfer Agreement, which limits commercial use and re-distribution). In a small number of cases, where specific tissues and/or large numbers of animals have been requested, the Nelson group has engaged in a collaborative arrangement to acknowledge the extra time and effort required by Nelson lab personnel. Please contact David Nelson directly at email@example.com to request mice or with any questions or concerns.
Mutant Mouse Strains Available
Fmr1 KO – This is the original Fmr1 knockout animal that carries an insertion in exon 5 (Bakker et al., 1994). It is a protein null, although Fmr1 mRNA is still present (Yan et al., 2004). Mice available from the BCM facility have been backcrossed over 20 generations to the C57/Bl6 strain.
Fmr1 KO2 – This is a new null allele at Fmr1 generated by deletion of the promoter and first exon of Fmr1 (Mientjes et al., 2006). It is both protein and mRNA null. This mutation is the same as is produced by Cre-mediated excision of the loxP sites present in the Fmr1 cKO described below.
Fmr1 cKO (conditional knockout) – This mouse carries loxP sites that were introduced by homologous recombination to flank the promoter and first exon of Fmr1 (Mientjes et al., 2006). Cre-mediated recombination between the loxP sites will eliminate Fmr1 expression, producing a KO2 deletion (Koekkoek et al., 2005).
Fmr1 cON (conditional restoration) – This strain carries a neomycin selection cassette that is flanked by loxP sites in the first intron of Fmr1(Mientjes et al., 2006). Due to the presence of an oppositely oriented transcribed gene in intron 1, expression of Fmr1 is greatly reduced. We estimate less than 10% of normal levels of FMRP are present in brains of these animals. Cre-mediated recombination between the loxP sites eliminates the interfering neomycin gene and restores normal expression levels of Fmr1.
Fmr1 YAC transgenic mice (TG298) – These transgenic animals carry a yeast artificial chromosome that expresses human FMR1 (Peier et al., 2000; Spencer et al., 2008). Total FMRP levels are elevated several fold over wildtype mice, providing an animal model that overexpresses FMRP with all alternatively spliced isoforms. These animals were created and maintained on the C57/Bl6 strain.
Fmr1 CGG expansion – These animals carry an expanded (~100 triplets) CGG repeat in the mouse Fmr1 gene. They were created by the Oostra group to serve as a model for repeat instability and expansion, with the expectation that they would accurately model the common mutation in Fragile X syndrome (Bontekoe et al., 2001). Unfortunately, the repeat was not found to be unstable at the levels necessary to model the disease, and larger repeats have not demonstrated the methylation that is found in humans. However, this line has become a very important model for FXTAS, the late age of onset neurodegenerative disorder seen in approximately 50% of males carrying premutations (Willemsen, 2003). The animals currently available at BCM carry ~150 repeats, and have been backcrossed into C57/Bl6 for more than ten generations.
FMR1 CGG90YAC transgenics – Additional lines carrying a human FMR1 gene with expanded CGG repeats as a YAC transgene were developed by the Nelson group for study of CGG repeat instability. These are also models for FXTAS.
Fmr1 Paralogs
In mammals, there are two proteins that are highly identical to Fmrp, known as Fxr1p and Fxr2p. These carry the same functional domains as Fmr1, bind RNA, can be found in complexes with Fmrp, and are likely to function with Fmrp in some of its roles. Understanding the functions of these genes has assisted with determining the role of Fmrp and the consequences of its absence. For example, animals lacking both Fmrp and Fxr2p exhibit more profound phenotypes than those lacking either alone. Knockout and conditional alleles for these genes have been produced and are proposed to be offered by the resource. These are described below.
Fxr2 KO – Fxr2 is an autosomal paralog of Fmr1. The Oostra and Nelson groups developed a knockout mouse for this gene by insertion of a selection cassette into exon 7, eliminating protein expression (Bontekoe et al., 2002). These animals have been backcrossed into C57/Bl6 for more than 20 generations.
Fxr1 KO – Fxr1 is an autosomal paralog of Fmr1. The Oostra and Nelson groups have developed a series of alleles at Fxr1. The KO allele is a deletion of the promoter and first exon, and is protein and RNA null (Mientjes et al., 2004). Homozygotes are born alive but die shortly after birth due to muscle abnormalities. These animals are maintained as heterozygotes, and have been backcrossed into C57/Bl6 for more than 20 generations. The deletion present in these KO animals is the same as that created by Cre mediated deletion of the cKO allele described below.
Fxr1 cKO (conditional knockout) – This mouse carries loxP sites that were introduced by homologous recombination to flank the promoter and first exon of Fxr1. Cre-mediated recombination between the loxP sites will eliminate Fxr1 expression, producing an Fxr1 KO deletion. These animals are viable and fertile and have been maintained on a C57/Bl6 background for more than 10 generations.
Fxr1 cON (conditional restoration) – This strain carries a neomycin selection cassette that is flanked by loxP sites in the first intron of Fxr1. Due to the presence of an oppositely oriented transcribed gene in intron 1, expression of Fxr1 is greatly reduced, resulting in a hypomorphic mutation. We estimate less than 10% of normal levels of FMRP are present in tissues of these animals. As a result, homozygous animals are not healthy, and only survive for 3-6 months. They are not fertile. Cre-mediated recombination between the loxP sites eliminates the interfering neomycin gene and restores normal expression levels of Fxr1. These animals are maintained as heterozygotes on a C57/Bl6 background. They have been backcrossed more than 10 generations.
Fmr1/Fxr2 Double knockout and Fmr1KO/Fxr2+/- heterozygotes
The Nelson group has made use of combinations of Fmr1 and Fxr2 mutations to elicit additional phenotypes such as hyperactivity and circadian rhythm anomalies (Spencer et al., 2006; Zhang et al., 2008). The double KO animals are difficult to maintain as a line, and need to be produced from a double heterozygote cross. We have provided these animals to other investigators; we know that they travel well.
Cre expression lines – Many transgenic animals have been developed that express Cre recombinase in specific tissues or upon induction. The Nelson group has imported several of these, and has demonstrated Purkinje cell specific ablation of Fmr1 and Fxr1 for phenotypic studies. Many other Cre expression lines are available locally at BCM. Subject to the agreement by the original developers of these lines, we could offer Fmr1 and Fxr1 conditional alleles crossed into these Cre expression animals.
Additional strains can be made available upon request. Please inquire.
Knockout Mice are also available from Jackson Laboratory.
FMR1 Knockout Rats
This model contains a deletion of the Fragile X mental retardation 1 gene (Fmr1). Mutations in Fmr1 result in Fragile X syndrome, the leading monogenic cause of autism, making this rat useful for the study of both Fragile X syndrome and autism.
Sold by Horizon Discovery Group. Visit Horizon Discovery.
Human Fragile X Cortical Neural Stem Cells
Human cortical neural stem cells that carry the Fragile X mutation are available for distribution to interested researchers. These cells are grown as neurospheres and are mainly neural progenitor cells. They can be differentiated into neurons and astrocytes that lack FMRP with long-term culturing. For more information about these cells please refer to Svendsen et al., J Neuroscience Methods 85:141-163 (1998), and contact: Dr. Anita Bhattacharyya at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Waisman Center www.waisman.wisc.edu/faculty/bhattacharyya.html
Antibodies to the Fragile X Protein
Several antibodies to the FMRP are available at nominal cost from the DHSB at the University of Iowa. Several antibodies to mouse and drosophila fmrp are available.For details, visit: http://dshb.biology.uiowa.edu/
Human Brain Tissue
FRAXA's primary mission is to speed up progress towards effective treatments and a cure for Fragile X. As "bottlenecks" are identified we will try to facilitate solutions, so please contact us for additional scientific resource requests.

subset: commoncrawl


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BMS CAT Commercial Mold Remediation
Any type of building, especially older ones are susceptible to mold due to high humidity, local climate, and poor ventilation.
Mold in commercial buildings can pose a huge risk to the public, so it's crucial to identify it quickly by employing Industrial Hygienists and then calling on the experts at BMS CAT for remediation. Our team of experts knows exactly how to handle a wide range of mold-related situations, and we know that timing is crucial. We will ensure safe re-entry to your building by taking care of your structure.
First, we inspect the building and make an assessment of everything for health and safety. Next, we take steps to protect equipment and valuables by cleaning the affected areas thoroughly.
Why Mold Remediation is Important
In a humid environment, when temperatures rise mold growth is almost inevitable. Usually, this can occur as the result of a water leak or moisture in a building, but also from storm damage. Never attempt to remediate mold by yourself! Always hire a professional like BMS CAT to assist with expertise and trained professionals who understand how to deal with the mold and solve the problem safely and effectively. Our team can eliminate the mold without it spreading to different areas of your building. BMS CAT employs a team of experts that come prepared for mold remediation by wearing all necessary safety equipment and clothing.
How Can Mold Be Prevented?
It's important to know how to keep mold from coming back. Once you know what lead to mold growth you previously had, or what can lead to it in the first place, you're better prepared to prevent it from happening again. Armed with this knowledge, you'll be able to better identify affected areas and then call the experts at BMS CAT to help you remediate.
The following areas can contain unwanted moisture, especially in warmer and humid climates:
- Kitchen areas: Refrigerators & Freezers
- HVAC Equipment: AC Drain Pans, Compressor lines, HVAC Vents
- Entryways: Doors and windows that let in hot, humid air from outside that can cause condensation
- Trash: Trashcans left un-emptied can be sources of unwanted moisture
- Carpets: This includes entry rugs and carpeted areas, where moisture can get trapped from shoes, or other items
We will work with you to repair potential leaks as well as any leaks that have been identified by you or our experts. Drying out affected areas and inspecting the effectiveness of your HVAC systems are important in preventing future mold growth.
Call BMS CAT at 877-730-1948 for your mold remediation needs. We will be able to help you restore your property to optimum efficiency, free of mold and other toxins.


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Thanksgiving Reading: Giving Thanks
97% of Americans celebrate Thanksgiving by eating turkey. Beyond that, the the menu is as varied as our nation's melting pot with each recipe telling a story.
Giving Thanks: Thanksgiving Recipes and History, from Pilgrims to Pumpkin Pie
by noted food historian Kathleen Curtin explores the deliciously fascinating history of Thanksgiving complete with trivia and amazing archival photographs. With over 80 recipes and dozens of feel good stories, this book is perfect Thanksgiving reading for everyone!
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Hangouts Meet
Hangouts Meet is Google's IM service with video and voice. You can initiate and participate in either ad-hoc or scheduled text, voice or video changes, one-on-one or in a group.
Where is Google's own information about Hangouts Meet?
Visit Google's Hangouts Help Center for information on
- Starting a Hangout
- Using Hangouts Meet on your mobile device
- Making video and phone calls
- Chatting using Hangouts
- Connecting Hangouts and Google Voice
- and more...
You can also find information at the Google's Google Apps Learning Center.
Who can I make phone calls to?
Google uses Voice over iP (VoIP) technology. Because of this, you can call any other Hangouts user on their computer or mobile device BUT you can also make free calls to just about any phone (mobile or land line) in the US or Canada from anywhere in the world (with just a few exceptions like Mexico and Argentina. (If the number you call isn't free, it's only 1 cent/minute.) Calls to destinations outside of the US are at very low rates. Learn more...
What if I need help with Hangouts Meet?
Visit Google's Hangouts Help Forum.
How many people can I "Hangout" with?
The participant limit for G Suite customers is 25. To help ensure a high quality experience on a variety of computers, only the 10 most active video call participants will have their video feeds visible at the bottom of the screen at any given time. Check out the Help Center for more information on Hangouts video calls.


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2011 Changes to the Business School Landscape
Business schools are finally seeing a comeback after the economic downturn diminished endowments, discouraged the MBA job market, and decreased salaries for new graduates. In his January 4, 2011 Fortune blog, contributor John A. Byrne predicts how the business school landscape will change.
2011 B-School Predictions
After a two-year shift on the business school front, Byrnes makes eight predictions for how MBA programs will look in 2011. Among his predictions are these top three:
- MBA Job Market Improves. Wall Street firms and banks are hiring again, and as a result consulting firms that work with the financial services industry are also scaling up their hiring.
- Non-U.S. Business Schools Become More Selective. As non-U.S. business schools improve in quality, students interested in international MBA programs will look abroad to schools, such as London Business School, IE Business School in Spain, and CEIBS in Shanghai.
- More MBA Programs Accept the GRE. According to a Kaplan survey of 288 business schools, 39% of business schools now accept the GRE in lieu of the GMAT. A newly revised GRE exam will be offered at a 50% discount.
Check out Byrnes' blog for more of his predictions on how business schools will change in 2011.


text: Eleven years after their breakthrough hit film, Juno, director Jason Reitman and writer Diablo Cody reunite for Tully, a sharp, funny and strange exploration of pregnancy and motherhood. Marlo (Theron) is an exhausted mother of three who is gifted a night nanny named Tully (Davis), by her affluent brother (Duplass). Although reluctant at first, Marlo is soon so won over by the young nanny that she starts to form a unique bond with her, staying up late just to learn from her wise twentysomething advice, in this thoughtful tale of parenthood and female friendship.


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Earth day, April 22, means different things to different people: a chance to plant a garden, a call to activism, or perhaps the time to do the planet-friendlier things you keep saying you'll do, such as bike to work.
For Bistro Ten Zero One, located on the outskirts of the downtown West Palm Beach corridor, Earth Day is about, among other things, a dinner in the restaurant's garden terrace area, where special guest Jan Norris, editor of Florida Food & Farm, is scheduled to offer environmental tips during the evening.
Earth Day is about something else for Bistro Ten Zero One, too: celebrating a day early.
That's because the restaurant's Earth Day-homage dinner is Thursday, not Friday.
In addition to Norris' insights, the bistro's executive chef Christian Quinones is slated to do some talking, including about Bistro Ten Zero One's herb garden and about the restaurant's efforts to minimize its carbon footprint.
But most of the 6-8 p.m. event centers around dining, and the al fresco spread is set to feature salads, such as a kale-and-quinoa salad; a grill station with chefs preparing pork loin, swordfish and jerked chicken; side dishes ranging from stir fry to grilled asparagus; and desserts such as coconut ice cream and panna cotta.
The Earth Day-homage dinner on the 21st at Bistro Ten Zero One, 1001 Okeechobee Blvd. (inside the West Palm Beach Marriott), is $40 a person if you register by tomorrow; thereafter, it's $45 a person.
To register, see www.bistro1001.com, where the restaurant's website's home page provides a link to make reservations for the April 21 event.
For more general information about Bistro Ten Zero One, call 833-1234, ext. 1908 or see www.bistro1001.com.


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Less than 27 per cent of eligible voters turned out at the ballot box in Wakefield's local elections earlier this month.
It was the district's lowest turnout at any council poll since 2003, which took place just after the breakout of the Iraq War.
It's a figure that suggests a growing disconnect between local politicians and the people they represent. Certainly, councillors and candidates reported finding plenty of apathy on the doorstep in the run-up to the May poll.
But what's behind the numbers and how can more people become involved in the democratic process?
Speaking on election night, Wakefield council leader Peter Box said the turnout was "very, very disappointing".
"I think people have got election fatigue to be honest," he said.
"We had a General Election last year, we had the (European Union) referendum the year before that and local elections (and a General Election) the year before that.
"I think perhaps there is a slight disenfranchisment with politicians generally, but it is disappointing because I believe people should exercise democratic right to vote."
"Disillusioned" was how 60 year-old Matt Standering, from Normanton, described himself when asked before the election why he wasn't voting.
"A lot of politicians just push the message that's given to them from above and that's it," he said.
Jon White, from the Wakefield Rural ward, said that local elections made "no difference" in an era where authorities are so short of cash.
He said: "Councils just aren't getting any money from central government and until they do there's no point in voting because whichever party gets in they can't do anything without money."
Coun Box has said he is in favour of implementing compulsory voting, which is enforced in Australia.
The system makes a trip to the ballot box mandatory for the country's citizens, who could face a trip to court and a fine if they don't.
It's a policy, enforced in just nine other nations, which has been criticised for being anti-democratic in itself for not making voting a free choice.
But a 2015 YouGov poll suggested Coun Box was far from alone in his view. In fact, more than half the British public agreed with him. The same month, an influential think tank recommended that all young people eligible to vote for the first time should be made to have their say.
But according to pressure group The Electoral Reform Society (ERS), the problem runs far deeper. They say a lack of options on the ballot paper and the dominance of the main parties repels voters.
Chief executive Darren Hughes said: "There are many reasons why turnout is low - but not least is the fact that many feel their voices are not heard, because of a broken voting system that means seats do not match votes.
"Too often elections are one or two-party races, with little choice and with voters feeling they must hold their nose at the ballot box."
This could well be a factor in Wakefield, where such was the power of the ruling Labour group before election night, there was no way they could lose their majority even if they lost in all 21 seats they contested on May 3.
The ERS have suggested a number of changes, including having adults automatically on the electoral roll.
Mr Hughes said: "We need to look at new ways of doing local democracy, to ensure everyone has a stake in politics.
"That could include allowing people to vote at weekends and at any polling station, extending the franchise to 16 and 17 year-olds and moving to an automatic system of registering to vote so no-one is left out."
Turnouts for local and European elections have traditionally been limp, especially in years without a General Election.
In a 2011 referendum, the public decisively rejected an alternative voting system in favour of retaining first past-the-post.
But with engagement in local politics seemingly as weak as ever, participation could remain critically low until some sort of change is implemented.
In numbers
Turnout in 2018 Wakefield District local elections - 26.86%
Lowest turnout for - 15 years
Turnout in 2003 Wakefield District local elections - 25.55%
Proportion of British people in favour of mandatory voting (2015 YouGov poll) - 55%
UK turnout at 2017 General Election - 68.7% (highest at a General Election in the 21st century)
Proportion of people in favour of AV voting system (2011 referendum) - 32%


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"Kaylee goes to try and find second hand parts and the Captain has to inform Sheriff Thomas that they have a little setback. Meanwhile Monty discovers that leaving Cheverell isn't as straightforward as it should be."
AUTHOR: Alison M. DOBELL
PAIRING: None.
STATUS: Sequel to "GAMES PEOPLE PLAY".
ARCHIVE: Yes. Just let me know where.
FEEDBACK: Welcomed.
EMAIL: email@example.com
WEBSITE: None. All Firefly stories archived at Fireflyfans.net
SUMMARY: "Kaylee goes to try to find second hand parts
and the Captain has to inform Sheriff Thomas that they have
a little setback. Meanwhile Monty discovers that leaving
Cheverall isn't as straightforward as it should be."
The usual disclaimers apply. The characters and 'Firefly'
are the property and gift of Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy.
No infringement of copyright is intended.
"Firefly" story
Written by Alison M. DOBELL
* * * * *
"You didn't break."
The Captain stared at River, not willing to voice how much her words disturbed him.
"Makes you special."
"Don't wanna be *tebie, dong ma*?"
Another voice answered, one he did not know but which sent cold shivers down his spine. "Not your choice, Reynolds." The voice paused, at one with the darkness crowding his mind. "Spent a long time trackin' you down."
"What the good gorram you wantin' with me?"
"Are you familiar with the works of Shan Yu?"
Mal woke in a cold sweat, the roof of his mouth dry, heart quailing in his breast. Fear chasing the breath from his body as he gulped lung fulls of air in an effort to stem the panic from taking over. It took longer than he was comfortable with for his racing heart to find a more peaceable rythym. Eyes wide and staring, a wildness to him that was truly alarming especially with him being unable to just shrug it off. He tried to convince himself it was just a gorram nightmare but knew he would not be able to go back to sleep. Swinging his legs out of bed he sat with a weary sigh and ran a shaky hand through his hair.
Monty couldn't understand it. What was wrong with his ship? Scowling fit to bust he stomped off to have words with his mechanic. Tommy Banks was swearing up a storm in the engine room, more steam coming out of his ears than an over heated boiler.
"What've you done to my ship?"
Exasperated, Tommy shook his head and gave his boss a hang dog look. "*Wo bu dong*. Can't find no good reason for her not firin'."
"We fueled up on landin' an' she had a full overall on Bellepheron." Monty scratched his head.
"Everythin' inside looks right as rain. Best I go look outside, make sure nothin' got sucked up when we landed."
"That even possible?"
Tommy shrugged. "Search me, Cap'n, just I can't see no problem on the inside."
With a sigh, Monty nodded and stepped out of his way. "Best you look then, you wanna take Docherty with you?"
"May as well. He's better'n a mule for heavy liftin'."
Monty chuckled. "Just don't go lettin' him hear ya say as much."
The messenger was bored but hiding it well. It was not wise to allow his maniacal and deeply disturbed boss to know that he was itching to either finish this or move on. Such thoughts would bring on the kind of utter agony which his strained and already tormented body would find hard to endure. He had died so many times, each death preceding an even more torturous birth. He needed no warning beyond his far too clear and vivid memory.
Lincoln James Petrie was enjoying himself. Muffled screams echoed from somewhere on the level below. Petrie grinned at the messenger, the look in his eyes seeming to taunt the man as if knowing how much his pleasure unsettled him. The sounds of a soul in physical torment choked off with a burbling sound. Petrie raised an elegant eyebrow and tilted his head as if listening, a slow smile of satisfaction oiling its' way across his face. Although his messenger had not asked a question, Petrie spoke as if he had.
"To die in such exquisite agony and despair." Petrie sighed softly, as if envying the poor benighted soul. "And yet," he paused, choosing his words with care "this one lasted but four days." A longer pause this time. "Four days!" Petrie shook his head, his eyes fastened like gimlets on the messenger's. "Even you lasted longer than that."
The room had a casual luxury that spoke more of excess than taste. With money no object it hardly mattered but to Petrie everything had a value, a price. In vaults unmeasured, the failed experiments of his warped carnal appetites stained walls of steel for a short parade of minutes before automatic sensors kicked in the self clean and decontamination of the room. Sometimes he kept small keepsakes: a finger, a toe, maybe part of a jaw or even the tongue. Such treasures had their own vault, a safe of the most twisted kind, hermetically sealed with each exhibit given it's own small tank. Special fluids preventing decomposition and a small inbuilt light so that he could illuminate his grotesques to his sick heart's content. This latest victim was hardly worth the preserving. He would allow the body to be fully dismembered and fed to his pets.
"He took the job?"
"Yes, *laoban*."
Petrie tilted his head back, eyes slitted thoughtfully as a glimmer of dark humour surfaced. "You say the mercenary blew up the relay station?"
The messenger hid any sign of impatience. He had given this report several times already. "*Qu*."
With a smile Petrie seemed to savour the information. "And Reynolds still intends to complete the job?"
"Yes, *shifu*."
"He is stubborn and also committed." Petrie looked pleased. "Good. Go to the next phase."
The messenger nodded and left. Once he was alone, Petrie called up the monitor in the torture room and put the decontamination programme on pause while he drank in his fill. Looking at the ruin of the once comely face he noticed one eyeball was still intact. Zooming in closer he took a moment to admire the quality. The eye was green with hazel hightlights. Quite delightful. Pressing a button he gave a command then watched to enjoy the new acquisition. Seeing the eye surgically removed, cleaned then placed in a new tank, satisfaction settled upon him like the savouring of a fine wine. With that thought he realised he was hungry.
Malcolm Reynolds hated this part. The Sheriff stared at him as if he was a backbirth. Oddly enough the man was more stunned than upset by the loss of the relay station, a fact that irked the Captain for its' oddness. After all, wasn't he wanting the problem fixed? In daylight the damage looked far worse than it had by Kaylee's match. For her part Kaylee had gone with Jayne to check out the junk yard for anything they could maybehaps use to replace the network of cables, wires and junction boxes. Zoe had elected to take a look around the town then meet him back at the Sheriff's office. He had noted that she had made it a statement of fact rather than a request. Irritated as he was by Ritchie he wished now he had gone with her.
"Mal, I thought you could handle this."
Anger was just a breath away from exploding in Ritchie Thomas's face but he seemed to be blithely unaware of it.
"Never said it would be an easy thing just promised to look, *dong ma*?"
"An' blowin' up the relay station was meant to accomplish what?"
He sighed and rubbed a hand over his face. "Jayne wanted to make sure no one was hidin' inside ready to take us out."
It was comical watching Malcolm Reynolds squirm a mite but Ritchie was just glad he hadn't handed back the downpayment for the job and gone on his merry. Truth was the Sheriff was being paid a pretty sum to keep him on Cheverell. Why, he had no idea and didn't much care though now and again he got a prick of something that might have been the tiniest bit of conscience. Pragmatic practicality would then step in and crush any stirrings of regret. Reynolds was a big boy and could handle most anything. Except maybe, the town's electrics.
"How long will it take to fix it?"
The Captain opened and closed his mouth. Honestly, he had no idea. "Won't know 'til Kaylee gets back. Says we have to strip every bit of the old wirin' an' such outta the relay station. Pretty much start again."
"Have you found out why the lights went out in the first place?"
"Ritchie, we been here less'n a day an' I don't even know if we can fix the ruttin' electrics let alone what in the nine hells caused 'em all to fail. If'n you know somethin' could maybe help I'm listenin'."
Ritchie shook his head. "Ain't got a clue, Mal."
For a moment neither man spoke. In his head the Captain was counting the minutes until Kaylee and Jayne returned. Talking to Ritchie was like watching paint dry but without the nice result when it was all done. Man made a career out of stupid. "What else went wrong?"
The Sheriff blinked, nonplussed. "*Shenme*?"
"You said other things had been happenin', stuff you couldn't explain, *jide*?"
"Oh, that."
When Ritchie didn't continue, Mal glared at him. Swallowing quickly, Ritchie rattled off the other things that had been happening around town, all of them unaccountable and not a one of them witnessed. Mal was beginning to feel a mite suspicious.
"You realise all these things are little things, *dong ma*?"
Ritchie scratched the back of his head. "Yeah but they add up, Mal."
"An' let me guess, you let 'em?"
"I'm a Sheriff not a dog catcher."
The Captain stared at him.
"Um, didn't I mention the bloodhounds got loose?"
"No, you didn't."
Steam was almost coming out of Mals' ears. He put his hands on his hips and Ritchie tried not to notice how close to his handgun the Captain's right hand was. He knew from experience that the man was blindingly fast on the draw and always hit what he was aiming at. Right now the nearest gorram target was himself.
Monty was getting more and more frustrated. "What do you mean the door won't open?"
Tommy slammed his hand against the cargo bay door. "It's stuck fast, Cap'n."
"What did you do?"
"*Yiwusuoyou*. Just won't gorram budge."
Monty was getting angry now. He wanted off this *lese* ball of rock but first the engine wouldn't fire up and now they couldn't open the rutting door to see if there was an external problem. What the *tamade diyu* was going on?
CHINESE GLOSSARY: (Mandarin - Pinyin)
*tebie* = special *dong ma* = understand? *wo bu dong* = I don't understand *laoban* = boss
*qu* = yes (lit. go) *shifu* = sir *shenme* = what *jide* = remember *yiwusuoyou* = nothing
*lese* = crappy *tamade diyu* = fucking hell
Friday, November 12, 2010 6:03 PM
Monday, November 22, 2010 11:19 AM
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text: Tobtok is a young artist, producer and musician from Sweden. Citing Nile Rogers as his biggest musical influence, Tobtok is at the forefront of Nu Disco and French House music. He counts BBC Radio 1's Zane Lowe as a fan after he cited latest single Higher as his 'Hype Track of The Week', this recognition was shortly followed by influential titles DJ Mag and Mix Mag who dubbed him as their 'One to watch'.


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Runtime: 118 min.
Rating: NR
Genres: Documentary, Disabilities, EducationSubtitles / Closed Captioning: None
Napa Valley Film Festival
"An amazing story. I am walking out a different person than when I walked in." - Ed Wehrer, school superintendent
"I don't know too many people that could have watched that with dry eyes." - Mary Desimone, parent


text: By now, most of us know that social media is a powerful medium. Not only does it allow us to stay in touch with family and friends but also it makes it easy to build an audience to connect with. Unfortunately, when I say it's easy, it doesn't mean that no effort is required. Consumers won't automatically find… Read more »


text: Do We TireDo we tire of being human, or do we tire of the thoughts that judge our humanness? In all moments, all is well. The only one who suffers the nowness, […] 19 Feb, 2016 in Be Yourself / Truth tagged be yourself / love / truth by tigmonk


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Business Articles And Me
There's a new firm referred to as Producers Lists, whose important focus is to offer the average searcher the perfect lists of manufacturers you'll find. Engineering consultancy enterprise is regulated by law in most nations to protect the general public from malpractice. This facet of your small business ought to be a serious focus when reviewing what should be achieved or modified in what you are promoting. If your corporation is being owed much, maybe by giving an excessive amount of credit to prospects, then your enterprise is at risk.
Irrespective of how good of a business owner you might be, there are at all times going to be lows. Once you have an understanding of English, it's important to apply it to Business English. An engineering agency is first and foremost a technical service industry, however the purchasers are industrial enterprise who've funding needs. You are doing the vast majority of your small business throughout family pleasant, normal", enterprise hours. In the event you understand that making a marketing strategy will not be your cup of tea then don't let it's a stumbling block as you start this great business idea. Managing money flows is essential for each business especially small companies.
If an organization plans to authorize each common and most popular shares of stock, this have to be included (together with voting rights data) within the Articles of Incorporation. You will still be able to discover the time for all the varied duties you already have throughout the week similar to physician's appointments, assist teams, exercise, therapy, filling prescriptions, and so forth. Time is absolutely important factor and you could make the most of your time accordingly to manage your link building service and WEBSITE POSITIONING consulting enterprise. If in case you have the skills to be a full-charge bookkeeper, you'll be able to simply begin a freelance or dwelling-primarily based bookkeeping enterprise. The overwhelming majority of business house owners and entrepreneurs aren't business specialists. Since a enterprise diploma requires me to check both business and non-business subjects, I may even be writing on non-enterprise.
Most businesses offer coaching sessions and firms that make use of foreigners they offer courses on the right way to perform the job with the proper enterprise English. Scholarly digital journals published by Springer including titles for Business and Management with archive provding entry to some titles from situation one.
Articles published in strategy+enterprise do not necessarily represent the views of the member firms of the PwC community. If you are coming into this business to satisfy your ardour of engineering design or any such high sounding reasons, my advice is simple: Arrange a portion of your living room to your pastime, I recommend model trains. When you've got images of your packaging, including these in your marketing strategy is at all times a good idea. The P&L additionally contains the all essential bottom line" the place your expenses are subtracted out of your earnings to point out if your small business is making a profit each month or potentially incurring some losses whilst you grow. It is necessary that the net businesses get high quality site visitors otherwise the quantity of business will not enhance.


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A highly recommended home stay to anyone who is looking for an authentic experience living with a lovely Cuban family in Santiago de Cuba City.
The house is located downtown on a quiet street and the beautiful colonial house offers great comfort and hospitality. It is only a 5-10 minute walk to the central square, and the majority of the museums and places of interest. The entire house is clean and the rooms are recently renovated and all have air conditioning and private bathrooms. You will love the interior garden with flowers, a banana tree and lots of vines, and its fauna: parrot, turtle, lizards and snails.
The menus at Casa Colonial Nivia are authentic Cuban dishes, which one cannot find easily at restaurants. Having coffee at the garden table, is a real treat. The home-made food is fresh and delicious and every day Beatriz offers a variety of choices for dinner: vegetarian, seafood, chicken, or lobster.
Beatriz, the daughter of Nivia and Roberto, and her husband David run the home stay. They are warm hosts and very knowledgeable of the touristic and cultural attraction of Santiago the Cuba and also flora and fauna of all Cuba (they are both biologists).
It will be lovely to stay in a home stay instead of a hotel and to be part of a Cuban household for a while.


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A year ago, I prayed a very selfish prayer. I knew that my dad was coming to the end of his days here on earth, but I had been so beaten down by the events of the years leading up to that day that I just needed a break. Having been a Bob Dylan fan for the better part of my adult years, I jumped at the opportunity to go see him when he came to Richmond. I bought tickets well in advance of the day, unable to foresee the circumstances that would be playing out as the day of the concert arrived.
As I watched my father's health decline, I was seeing the perfect storm ensue and wondering whether or not I would have to forego seeing this musical legend because my father had passed. My insides were in knots. I felt like such a jerk. I loved my father and here I was, hoping and praying that he would last one more day so that I could have a few hours to spend with my wife seeing Bob Dylan.
It wasn't the money that was the issue. If I had had to give up the tickets or if I had been unable to go, it would have just been money. It was really just the opportunity for a break. Between seminary, my church and job situation, my mother's failing health and eventual death, and now my father's rapid decline, it was hard for me to get to the surface to catch a breath of air before the next wave hit. As crazy as it sounds, a simple excursion to a Bob Dylan concert could function as that for me.
So I prayed……a selfish prayer. I asked God to preserve my father for just one day. I asked that my night be free of phone calls that he had fallen, that he would stay in his bed, that his heart would keep beating, that he would rest on earth for one more day. I just wanted one more day.
And that's what I got.
My wife and I went to the concert. My phone never rang. My dad lasted through the night, but that was his last night on earth. I woke up the next morning and spent the entire next day by his side. I read to him, I sang to him, I prayed with and for him. I kissed him. I waited. And that next day, after spending the whole day with him, he breathed his last breath while I sat there by his side.
I wrestled in my spirit whether I had done the wrong thing or not. Should I have forgotten the concert to spend time with my dad for his last night on earth? Should I have not been so selfish? Could I have done more? These questions and so many more were running through my mind.
The reality of loss and grief is that when we go through them, we need to be careful to take time for ourselves. If we aren't careful, we can be overwhelmed with all of the duties and responsibilities that fall on us, the caretakers. If we don't stop to care for ourselves, we can easily find ourselves on a decline emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually.
I took the time that I thought I needed……and I prayed. I feel like God heard my prayer, selfish though it might have been. I'm glad he did and I'm glad that I had that one night to step away, to find solace in the music. The next day, reality rushed back in like a tidal wave, and I think that I was a little more ready to deal with it because of a selfish prayer that I had prayed, a selfish prayer that I felt like had been answered by a gracious God.


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OWS uses grass roots marine tourism to provide livelihoods for fishers and their community, reducing poverty whilst conserving whale sharks, coral reefs and fish.
About the Implementing organization
Name: Oslob Whale Sharks
Country: Philippines
Year of establishment: 2012
Type of organization: Community-based association or organization, Community enterprise or business , Cooperative business, Indigenous group or organization
OWS is innovative and different because:
• It is the most financially, environmentally and developmentally successful community based marine tourism initiative in the worldo more effective than any top down marine tourism development initiativeo Injects conservatively 27 times more income directly into fishers and community over 4 years (2012-2015), than best practice expatriate or local elite owned marine tourism businesses• It is a grass roots initiative designed by fishers for fishers, to earn income from a natural phenomena – fishers' relationship with whale sharks migrating through Tan-awano OWS uses only infrastructure and assets available to fishers – small non-motorised banca, land owned by TOSWFA familieso relies on existing skills and lifestyle to catch krill, control feeding and tourist banca in currents, creating stronger satisfaction in changing livelihoods from fishing • There are no economic leakages. All income stays in the community• Livelihood benefits touch every person in Tan-awano Increase incomeo Improve food security• Empowers the whole community - fishers, community, bureaucrats and politicians • Environmentalo Bantay Dagat paid to protect whale sharks from illegal fishing o Fishing pressure is reduced as fishers work in tourismo Regulations prohibit destructive fishing gear - hook and line onlyo Fish stocks are increasedo Livelihoods reduce reliance on marine resources, turning fishers from extractive users into protectors
Nature Element
Oceans / Coasts / Wildlife
Type of Action
Protection / Sustainable use / Access and benefit sharing / Awareness and education
Sustainable Development Element
Jobs and livelihoods / Food security
Environmental Impacts
Whale sharks are an IUCN Red List Vulnerable species, prey to illegal fishing in the waters of Oslob. The coral reefs and fisheries of Tan-awan are heavily exploited and hit hard by typhoons. OWS protects whales sharks from illegal fishing, stops the over exploitation of coral reefs and sea grass beds, reduces fishing effort and finances 5 marine reserves in the area.
OWS pays allowance for Bantay Dagat (volunteer Sea Wardens) to patrol Oslob waters, protecting whale sharks from illegal fishing and the subsidises cooperation of National Police on sea patrols. Beaches and streets are cleaned daily.
Livelihoods to fishers and community have reduced reliance on marine resources, changing fishers from extractive users into protectors of whale sharks and coral reefs. The financial and livelihood success of OWS raises the profile of whale sharks internationally; the need for, and benefits of, protection.
Challenges remain in managing sewerage runoff from overburdened septic tanks.
Sustainable Development Impacts
Income allows OWS and government to bring sustainable development to communities in the form of:Income allows OWS and government to bring sustainable development to communities in the form of:
Improvements in food security; health; housing; shelter; assets; education; elder care; reuniting of families; inclusion of the marginalised; water, electricity and roads infrastructure;
The creation of wealth and equitable access to resources through decent work for fishers, business opportunities for women (souvenirs, food, restaurants, accommodation); private sector growth in financial services; access to credit; employment of youths; livelihood training
Improvements in empowerment, self esteem, cultural identity and community cohesion
All levels of government protect OWS and work for sustainable development; engagement with National Police on enforcement; responding to closure threats from Donsol
Conserving whale sharks, coral reefs and fish; reducing fishing pressure; financing conservation in 5 marine sanctuaries
OWS can be scaled up or down to operate at the level required. OWS was scaled up, drawing increasingly high numbers of national and international tourist to provide higher incomes to TOSWFA fishers, the barangay of Tan-awan and Municipality of Oslob ($US5.2m over 4 years).
OWS started as one fisher luring a whale shark closer to shore. With income conservatively estimated at around $US663,000 in its first year, over 4 years (2012-2015), OWS experienced growth of over 226% through word of mouth.
Scaling up was achieved by increasing the size of interaction site, hiring more banca from fishers and bringing more members into TOWSFA.
Importantly, TOWSFA partnered early with the Barangay Captain and Mayor. Partnering shares income and benefits; gaining community support, expertise in infrastructure, finance, and municipal and political support. Together, OWS has built the capacity of the barangay and municipality to alleviate poverty and conserve whale sharks, coral reefs and fish.
Scaled models of grass roots marine tourism, like OWS, can be replicated around the Philippines and the equator to diversify the livelihoods of fishers and communities and create sustainable development whilst conserving marine wildlife.
OWS is based on the daily presence of whale sharks in near shore waters. Its authenticity comes from fishers paddling tourists in traditional banca, watching feeders and sliding into the water with whale sharks. Many coastal communities around the equator have marine resources (whales sharks, dolphins, whales, manta rays, turtles, fish, sea otters, sea birds, sea snakes). The quality, proximity and reliability of the marine wildlife attraction, the authenticity of the experience, the way it is managed and the engagement of community and local government all influence replicability.
Researching OWS as a bright spot in community based marine tourism, has allowed the building of a model of best practice, to guide implementation in different locations.
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Mustache Party Supplies & Birthday Decorations
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14 Item(s)
Mustache Party Supplies, Movember Party Supplies
Bring out your silly side with our super selection of Mustache party supplies and Mustache favors! Create a fun, old timey feeling for your upcoming bash with our mustache plates, mustache napkins, cups, decorations and more! Looking for something to decorate your Movember fundraiser? Look no further. Our Movember party supplies have got you and your guests covered. Make your mustachioed gathering a huge success with the help of all of our fabulous mustache party supplies!
Mustache Party Activities
Planning a mustache themed birthday party, mustache baby shower or other fun mustachioed celebration can be a lot of fun. You've acquired the necessary mustache party supplies. You've prepared some themed foods like mustache shaped cookies and a mustache styled cake. But, what sorts of party activities should you organize for your guests? Below are a few of our suggestions for some mustache party activities that you and your guests should enjoy.Mustache Photo Booth
Part of the fun of dressing up is seeing and showing off how silly you look. Of course, you can take photos of your guests wearing mustaches, but it's even more fun to take it a step further and set up your own photo booth. It's really pretty easy, and everyone should love it.
The best way (and maybe the hardest part) to prepare your mustache party photo booth is to find a large box to serve as your booth. Create a hole so that you can take pictures inside of the booth, and add some old-timey looking wallpaper as the background (some sort of damask print should look great). If you can add some old-fashioned style signs letting everyone know where the photo booth is located.
If you can't find a big enough box, don't worry about it. Just set up your "photo booth" in front of a couch or a set of chairs. If possible, add some old-fashioned looking props as part of the picture or drape some cloth over your couch for an artistic affect. Finally, be sure to have plenty of moustaches on hand for your guests to mix and match for numerous photos! You can use novelty mustaches (probably the easiest) or simply use mustache cutouts.Pin the Mustache on the Photo
Another fun activity for a mustache party is "Pin the Mustache on the Photo". As the name implies, this is a mustachioed take on the classic "Pin the Tail on the Donkey Game". For this game, blow up a photo of someone, maybe it's you, the guest of honor, a hated celebrity, etc. and hang it on a wall. Next, blindfold your guests, spin them around and give them a self-stick mustache to place on the photo. The person who gets the moustache the closest to its proper place wins the game.
Have a Great Time at Your Mustache Party!
Mustache parties are a charming way to celebrate a number of special occasions. From birthday parties to Movember parties to little man mustache parties, the cute and silly mustache party can be a lot of fun for everyone. Plan ahead, and make your upcoming mustache party the best it can be with the help of our wonderful mustache party supplies!


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Not long ago, during a 3-day headache during which I was certain that I'd somehow accidentally swallowed some skull-eating parasite that was attempting to burrow out of my skull over the course of a long weekend, I wandered across the street to an urgent care facility to see if they could check out my parasite theory.
Urgent care offices occupy that space in the American healthcare system that's between the "Our next appointment is in 14 months on a Tuesday at 2:15am. And if that doesn't work for you, we've got something right around Armageddon, and that one's at lunch. Whichever one works for you. Just make sure you get here 2 months early to fill out paperwork, or you can fill it out online in about 5 minutes, and we'll make sure to lose it by the time you get here so you'll have to fill it out again using a dried out Sharpie one of our staff brought in from home after she pulled it out of her kid's nose," that you get when trying to make an appointment with your regular doctor and the "Come see us anytime, but if you're able to come in under your own power, then you're clearly healthy enough to sit out in our waiting room/KOA campground for the next couple of weeks or so," you get when you to go an emergency room.
I've been waiting since the Carter administration.
After getting my insurance information, a copy of my ID, my employer's name and telephone number, my social security number, my date of birth, and implanting a GPS tracker in my neck to make sure their billing agents could locate me in the event that I was one of those socialists that believes that healthcare should be a basic right and who wouldn't pay my bill, they sent me back to an exam room with a medical assistant.
On the way back to the exam room, though, she stopped me at a scale and said, "Let's get your weight." I said, "Oh, yeah, I've got all of it with me. You can have as much as you like. You have a 50 gallon drum or something you want me to dump it into?"
She eyeballed me and with one authoritative finger pushed me onto the scale. Modern scales in medical offices are all digital, so there's none of that anticipation and build-up you get with the old style scales with the sliding weights. I liked those, because whether the result was good or bad, it was like watching a game show. "C'mon, 150, 150, 150, no 200! Alright, 150! Now gimme 10, 10, 10, no 20...Aww, 17. Damn. 167. Not bad. We'll play again in a few weeks, see if I win that 4-night 3-day stay at the Pismo Beach Marriott."
The digital scale is cold, calculating, inhuman. 236.7 pounds.
That's not a number I made up for narrative purposes. That was my actual weight. 236.7 pounds. The MA dutifully wrote it down. "Well, I've got my shoes on, and I've got two cell phones and my wallet and keys, and I'm wearing jeans, which are well known throughout the western world for being the heaviest of pants. Also, I've got a some skull monster that moved in and I'm sure that thing's gotta weigh like 10-20 pounds. So, maybe write down like 199 or something. Maybe like 205 if you need, but lemme try again."
She did not let me try again. And I think the 10-20 pound skull-eating parasite wasn't real. And it wasn't the 90's, so I didn't have 10 pounds of cell phones to carry around. Shoes are lighter than ever before, and I don't even know if jeans are really the heaviest pants.
When I poke myself in the belly, I watch the ripples spread like one of those earthquake animations they show on the news. The epicenter is my left kidney and the aftershocks of the blubberquake are enough to totally flatten my spleen.
It wasn't always this way. This is me in 2000, traveling in Tunisia.
This is me today, traveling between the sofa and the fridge.
In 2000, I played soccer all the time and resisted the urge to classify a quart of ice cream as a single serving, so I was not only about 80 pounds lighter than I am in the bottom photo, I was actually able to walk, hike, run, bike and do things that I like to do without falling over and having strangers walk up to me and ask things like, "Hey buddy, are you OK? Do you need an ambulance or some pizza?" or starting to rifle through my pockets on the premise that I'm already dead, so someone might as well go claim their free slice of pizza from Pizza Schmizza with my loyalty card.
Now, I've been aware that my problem wasn't that all my 32-inch waist jeans shrank. After all, the legs stayed the same length. And because of the aforementioned interlopers offering medical assistance and/or stealing my stuff while they think I'm dead, I've been aware that my sedentary lifestyle has left me lacking my former athleticism.
Seeing the effects of the last 15 years of laziness quantified on a scale at a medical office, where I can't tell myself that maybe they haven't had it calibrated in the last decade and it probably weighs about 70 pounds heavy, gave me the hard (or soft and squishy) data I've been avoiding knowing for so long.
In addition to just not enjoying being as inactive and globular as I am these days, I've also recently set a wedding date with my fiancee: July 23, 2016. It's going to be a great day, and I don't want photos of me on my wedding day to be confused with old timey photos of a zeppelin.
I made it to the church on time.[1]
So, I've got a date, and I've got a goal. At my most fit as an adult, I was about 150 pounds. I don't know that I'm going to get there, but I'm aiming for the 160 range. I'm not sure yet exactly how I'm going to yet there, but what I've done so far, which involves some running and wheezing (How many calories does post-running wheezing burn? And are dry heaves a good core exercise? They certainly feel like it.), and generally not treating my day-to-day life as a game of Hungry, Hungry Hippos, I've dropped down right below the 230 mark. It's 229.5, but right now I'll take that .5.
Cover photo by Giuseppe Milo - edited. Waiting room photo by Jason Parks. Zeppelin photo by Steve Jurvetson. Licensed under Creative Commons. ↩


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گروه مهندسی کامپیوتر، واحد تبریز، دانشگاه آزاد اسلامی، تبریز، ایران
[1] I. F. Akyildiz, W. Su, Y. Sankarasubramaniam, and E. Cayirci, "Wireless sensor networks: a survey," Computer networks, vol. 38, pp. 393-422, 2002.
[2] J. Yick, B. Mukherjee, and D. Ghosal, "Wireless sensor network survey," Computer networks, vol. 52, pp. 2292-2330, 2008.
[3] A. Ghaffari, "Congestion control mechanisms in wireless sensor networks: A survey," Journal of network and computer applications, vol. 52, pp. 101-115, 2015.
[4] A. Ghaffari and V. A. Takanloo, "QoS-based routing protocol with load balancing for wireless multimedia sensor networks using genetic algorithm," World Appl. Sci. J, vol. 15, pp. 1659-1666, 2011.
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[7] A. Ghaffari and L. Azari, "Proposing a novel method based on network-coding for optimizing error recovery in wireless sensor networks," Indian Journal of Science and Technology, vol. 8, p. 859, 2015.
[8] R. Mohammadi and A. Ghaffari, "Optimizing reliability through network coding in wireless multimedia sensor networks," Indian Journal of Science and Technology, vol. 8, p. 834, 2015.
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[10] M. Z. Farooqi, S. M. Tabassum, M. H. Rehmani, and Y. Saleem, "A survey on network coding: From traditional wireless networks to emerging cognitive radio networks," Journal of Network and Computer Applications, vol. 46, pp. 166-181, 2014.
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Evolution of an apex predator: The potent new superlight SL 63 AMG
Downloads for this Press Release
- Superlight: All aluminium bodyshell
- Striking: Stylish design
- Fierce: 537 hp/564 hp AMG 5.5-litre V8 'biturbo' engine
- Supreme: Enhanced driving dynamics
The SL has continued to evolve with every new generation over the 60 years since the original was conceived. The latest creation from Affalterbach proves to be the pinnacle of this evolution, with the high performance division of Mercedes-Benz spawning a superlight, powerful, and furiously nimble new SL 63 AMG that continues to outperform all others in its class. Systematic lightweight construction, a boost in output and driving dynamics, and 30 percent lower fuel consumption and emissions are among the many features in its arsenal.
An all-aluminium bodyshell similar to that of the iconic SLS AMG super sports car reduces the roadster's weight by around 125 kilograms, allowing for a kerb weight of 1845 kilograms. Combined with the tectonic plate bothering AMG 5.5-litre V8 'biturbo' (twin-turbocharged) engine - delivering for the first time a choice of 537 hp or 564 hp -the new model has the perfect recipe for unparalleled dynamism and supreme driving experience.
Performance is further boosted courtesy of a winning combination of enhanced AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control (ABC), new AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, the AMG high-performance compound brake system and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. An enticing mix of stylish design, extensive standard equipment and a high safety level.
Frank Bernthaler, Director, Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars, Middle East & Levant said: "The new SL 63 AMG is yet another masterpiece from Mercedes-AMG. Be it driving dynamics, lightweight construction or efficiency – the SL 63 AMG represents a giant leap forward from its already class leading predecessor. Following on from the SLS AMG Roadster and the SLK 55 AMG, it now makes our unrivalled roadster family practically complete."
The AMG 5.5-litre V8 'biturbo' (twin-turbocharged) engine delivers 537 hp and 800 Nm of torque. If the AMG Performance package is specified, these figures rise to 564 hp and 900 Nm – more power than any other competitor in this segment.
The result is high-calibre performance, as underlined by the bolt from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 or 4.2 seconds, and to 200 km/h in 12.9 or 12.6 seconds respectively. Top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited), although this rises to 300 km/h (likewise electronically limited) with the AMG Performance package on board.
The eight-cylinder powerplant with the abbreviation M 157 features a combination of innovative high-tech components for high power output,
and it delivers exemplary, low fuel consumption. In addition to spray-guided direct petrol injection, the engine boasts an all-aluminium crankcase, twin turbochargers, four valves per cylinder with camshaft adjustment, air/water intercooling, alternator management and an ECO start/stop function. The weight-optimised AMG sports exhaust system with two chromed twin tailpipes produces a distinctive engine sound.
NEDC combined consumption comes in at 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres for both power outputs – a full 4.2 litres or 30 percent lower than for the outgoing model.
The key data at a glance:
|5461 cc
|Bore x stroke
|98.0 x 90.5 mm
|Compression ratio
|10.0 : 1
|537 hp at 5500 rpm
564 hp at 5500 rpm*
|Max. torque
|800 Nm at 2000-4500 rpm
900 Nm at 2250-3750 rpm*
|Engine weight (dry)
|204 kg
|Vehicle weight acc. to EC
|1845 kg
|Fuel consumption, NEDC combined
|9.9 l/100 km
|CO2 emissions
|231 g/km
|Efficiency class
|Acceleration 0-100 km/h
|4.3 s 4.2 s*
|Top speed
|250 km/h**
*With AMG Performance package **Electronically limited
Note: For additional information please download the full press release in Word Format from the 'Downloads' section above.
For more information, please contact:
Ali Kherallah
Public Relations, Daimler Middle East & Levant
[email protected]
Mob: +971 50 9006069
Nick Langmead
Press Contact
[email protected]
Mob: +971 50 8847964
Bassam Saifi
Press Contact
[email protected]
Mob: +971 50 2838085
Further information from Mercedes-Benz is available online at: www.media.daimler.com


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What is the best Footwear? I'd like to avoid anything too heavy but my daily minimalist shoe doesn't offer enough protection. Snow, mud, and water seem to call for boots, but that sounds more like a chore than fun.
The most basic advice I can give about hiking is to go find a natural space and walk around. That's it. It's not sexy or particularly exciting, but it's good enough.
I do have some additional thoughts, though. If you want to get deeper, if you want to "upgrade" or "hack" your hiking, you'll find today's post useful. I'm going to offer some ideas on how to get the most out of your forays into wilderness.
I'm not going to discuss multi-day hikes/backpacking, which, truth be told, I'm not nearly as experienced with. This is strictly about day hikes—the kind everyone has time to do.
I'm also not going to discuss gear. It's real easy (and fun) to geek out on all the awesome gadgets and gear you can buy for hiking, so I won't spend much time there.
Let's get to it:
When searching for new restaurants to try, I weigh the number of reviews more heavily than the number of stars they receive. Same for books and other products. A 4.5 star average across 2000 reviews is more convincing than a 5 star average across 20.
Not so with hikes. When I'm browsing Yelp or some other hiking review site for a hike to try, I avoid the ones with the most reviews. I expect and prepare for crowds at a good restaurant. Crowds can even enhance a restaurant's atmosphere. I hike to escape the crowds.
Grok wasn't some foolhardy hiker, heading off into the backcountry on a lark. Most extant hunter-gatherers are cautious. They travel with friends. They move along pre-determined paths. They know the land before they walk it.
It's a lot like a lifelong shoe wearer running a marathon in Vibram FiveFingers. It's gonna hurt, and and injury is probable. Having grown up in the cradle of civilization, you probably aren't prepared to go it alone. Nature can be dangerous. It doesn't have to be, but you'd better respect it.
Plan your route. Follow a path; trails are where they are for a good reason. Solo hikes are fine (some of my favorites have been just me), as long as you know what you're doing and where you're going.
Wait, what? Sisson, I thought I was hiking to escape the trappings of civilization. I hike to gaze at the wonders of mother nature, not thumb my way through my Twitter feed. You really blew it on this one.
Not so fast. Here's how I use my phone on my hikes.
And no, I don't always take it along.
On short hikes, don't take food. Don't wear a backpack. If it's a short enough hike, don't even take water.
I love to hike totally unencumbered. Save for whatever fits in my pockets, I prefer to leave it behind. If it's a cool day or a short hike (1-4 miles), I'll even leave the water behind.
This gives me more freedom to roam and explore. I can run if I want to. I can lift a rock or log or climb a tree. Mostly, I just like having my hands free as I walk. There's nothing like gliding down a trail, light as a bird.
Hydration is important, so before you start hiking, drink 12 ounces of water with sea salt sprinkled in—and maybe a squeeze of lemon or lime juice.
Parents, even of youngsters totally unable to self-ambulate: take your kids hiking. It's not that hard. If pre-walking, strap them into a baby carrier or use a stroller (trail permitting). If barely walking, just go short and slow. Your mile hike might take an hour, but it's worth it and you're still out there.
Hiking soothes the crying babe. It provokes the sullen pre-teen into engagement with the world (despite their best attempts). It builds stamina walking up those hills, balance traversing that uneven ground, and instills a love and respect for the natural world.
Will babies "remember" it? Not consciously, but trust me. All those hours spent walking through beautiful natural settings imprint on their subconscious selves. They'll be better, calmer, saner adults for their time in nature.
The natural environment abounds with heavy objects. Stones and fallen logs of various sizes, shapes, and weights provide plenty of resistance. I suggest you take advantage.
Having a partner isn't just safer. It exponentially increases the amount of fun you can have.
This is a great way to get a solid workout without realizing it.
What else can you think of?
Observe the verticality of the natural world. Look for trees that you can climb, and climb them.
Be safe, of course. Don't climb anything you can't climb down. Avoid branches thinner than your wrist. Avoid dead branches (and dead trees, for that matter).
Also check out rock formations you can scramble up. There's nothing like a good scramble up some granite. Bouldering—climbing straight up using toe and handholds—is also fun but requires more training and know-how.
I'm no meditator. I've tried. I've read the literature. I know the benefits. It just doesn't work for me.
But there are alternatives that get you to the same place, and hiking is one of mine.
So, when you hike, stay present and pay attention. Touch everything you see. Caress the bark and the leaves. Smell the flowers. Flip over a decaying log and watch the bugs scatter. One of my favorites to touch and see is the manzanita tree.
Hiking isn't always about physical fitness. It's a place to just be in the present moment, too.
If my hike doesn't have at least a bit of elevation gain, I feel cheated. It doesn't even feel like a hike. Rather, it's a walk.
Walks are fine. I love a good easy walk through a wilderness area. But I really, really love a good climb.
One thing I'll do anytime I'm in a new area (and have enough time) is look around for the hike with the biggest elevation gain. There's something gratifying about battling the most fundamental force in the known universe—gravity—and coming out on top.
I mean that literally: you're actually on top. You can look down on the city below and know that you're higher than every single person there.
Also, climbing is a great workout.
Trees are crazy.
Depending on where you are, the trees might have been around to witness the rise and fall of Alexander the Great, the spread of Christendom, the construction of the Great Wall of China and Macchu Picchu, the dozens of generations of hunter-gatherers raising children and warring and loving and dying under its canopy. And these are living things. Not conscious like we know, but responsive to the environment and reactive to their peers, with whom they communicate via a subterranean fungal network.
Imagine the original inhabitants padding along the same trail you're on, seeing the same sunset you're watching. What were they thinking? What did they dream about? What did they carry? Did they ever just go out to enjoy themselves on a hike?
Imagine the earliest explorers climbing the same ridge you just climbed. You see haze and skyscrapers off in the distance. They saw teeming wildness.
Imagine the conversations that have echoed through these trees and valleys, canyons and caves.
Imagine all the lovers sneaking off to rendezvous within the confines of that little nook in the rock wall ten feet up, maybe during a thunderstorm or to escape the brutal heat of summer. To how many conceptions did it bear witness?
Imagine the troops marching along your trail to die, or win, or do both.
Most of us think of forests when we think about hiking, but that isn't the only way to do it. You can hike through deserts and scrublands (brown space), along the ocean (blue space), through grasslands, or even through a particularly impressive city park.
Not everyone has easy access to towering forests, and that's okay.
Well, there you have it: my 14 tips for making the most of your hikes.
How do you like to hike? What tips would you add?
Let me know down below! Thanks for reading, everybody, and take care.
If you'd like to add an avatar to all of your comments click here!
What is the best Footwear? I'd like to avoid anything too heavy but my daily minimalist shoe doesn't offer enough protection. Snow, mud, and water seem to call for boots, but that sounds more like a chore than fun.
Josh, I hike rough, rocky, rooty trails here in Connecticut in minimalist shoes most of the year and they work just fine once you get used to it. I did have my share of stubbed toes and sore arches from stepping badly, but it just taught me to not step badly. This time of year, when it's cold and snowy and mucky, I switch to a good pair of mukluks. There are several brands out there, just try to find one that advertises a soft or flexible sole to avoid the big clunky Uggs type of thing. I got mine from Manitobah Mukluks, they have a flexible Vibram sole with good ground feel, but they're exceptionally warm, and they look nice enough that I wear them to work as well. I waterproofed mine with silicone spray and the mud and water seem to slide right off for anything other than a submerged foot. They're my go-to for winter hiking!
Dude, most trails are hard packed dirt, and you could do them barefoot if you wanted to. Mud and water only call for boots if it's really cold, otherwise your little itty bitty shoes will dry out in no time.
Also, not sure why hiking has to be 'fun'. Sometimes it should be difficult, more like a chore than leisure.
Heavy-duty hiking boots ARE heavy, but there are lots and lots of sneakerized versions that are light and comfy. Unfortunately, if you are carrying a serious backpack, and climbing rocky trails, you would want the purchase and leverage that come with lug soles and stiff leather boots. It all depends on what surfaces you are on, how much you are carrying, and what your feet are used to.
Look at Vivo Barefoot – they have hiking "flats"
Merrells are good. Depends on the terrain though! If you're hiking in snow, mud or water, that might be a different story lol.
When doing all day in snow, I wear waterproof minimalist trail runners. Never had an issue.
Teva Mush flip-flops are surprising good for hiking and running. All types of terrain, and they are dirt-cheap.
I've never had problem with trail runners. Did 50 mile trek thru Sierras in minimalist trail runners without issue. Most common footwear for Appalachia Trail thru hikers now. Just make sure you wear good wool socks.
The highest peak in my area is 14k feet high. Not a day hike.
Definitely not a day hike. Appropriate equipment is also an excellent idea. I'm always amazed at the number of clueless individuals who think they can hike Colorado's mountains in cutoffs and flipflops, with no warm clothing, no water, no phone coverage, and no idea of where they are or how to get back to civilization. Truly a recipe for disaster. Thankfully we have many dedicated search and rescue people here.
Wow! But you can certainly do day hikes that don't go to the summit. OR, if you are a backpacker, bring gear, food, and water, and camp overnight for a multi-day trip.
PSA: if you're hiking in or around Phoenix (or somewhere with a similar climate), please ALWAYS take water, even if you don't think you'll need it. Every year hikers die or need to be rescued because they didn't realize how hot it can get, or their hike ends up being longer or harder than they expected.
Good advice. Aside form the heat, it's very arid here. Easy to get dehydrated even in cooler weather (like now).
Also, I'd be careful about lifting logs and rocks. That's scorpion habitat!
Snakes too. Same thing applies to Florida.
I love day hikes. I most often walk with my dog, so I have to do dog-friendly trails or just meander through my neighborhood, sometimes miles in any direction. Sometimes Dog decides which way we will go. I listen to podcasts, in particular, the MDA interviews. This way, the information gets my full attention.
It seems I get lots of ideas for writing as I walk and then promptly forget them by the time I get home. I need to figure out how to use speech to text. Maybe my phone is too old for that feature.
some mp3 players have memo apps built in
Love this post!
One tip that came from my boyfriend during a hike: look forward! So often I find myself looking down at my feet (or the ground in front of my feet) because I am not as used to walking on the uneven ground, I "think" I need to watch where I'm stepping. Truth is, I don't! Just lift your head and look forward, and slow your steps a little, and this triggers your body's natural ability to feel its way and balance. Also, on flatish trails or sections of trail, my boyfriend added walking sideways and backward to the repertoire. It engages different muscles and adds to the fun!
Also, I highly recommend bringing a dog and experiencing their joy at being in the natural world. 🙂
Lifelong hiker here. However when I hike, I purposely leave the phone in the car and I don't do pull-ups or sprints. I'm out there to enjoy the solitude of Nature. On a 5 miles hike last Fall it took 90 minutes to cover a particularly easy, flat mile. Why? Because I was in a towering forest of old trees, moss covered boulders and pristine ponds. I savored every smell, sight and sound.
I could hike with you, Peter. I hike in our forest preserves and usually around a lake. I love seeing the changes in the wildflowers from week to week, how the geese gather in the fall. In the winter I follow fox and coyote tracks to see where they are going. I observe the ice patterns in the lake. I hate when i see other people walking the trails and they arent even seeing it. So many are power walking and jabbering with somone the entire time-frequntly on the phone, and I just wish they would look around instead.
Hiking is one of my most favorite pastimes … I picked up a more than a few useful tips here though … great post!
Hiking is something my husband and I enjoy together. I am thankful that my husband as he ages he is finally taking it slower. Believe me, it should not be a contest, it should be fun. We take only water and usually just beat the sun going down. I used to get really sore, so much pain I could hardly stand it. We started bringing along very small bottles of tart cherry juice and have no more post hike pain. I am a much more willing participant in these dawn to dusk adventures since we have been drinking the cherry juice.
I don't usually hike, but take my dog on multiple walks each day, which sometimes turn out pretty long and may take us off of the actual walking paths. There is definitely something meditative about getting out in nature. While sometimes I occupy my mind with podcasts, many times I try to just take in the beauty that's all around me…the trees, the sky, whatever happens to be blooming (or in my case now, the snow on the ground.) It always gives me a boost, and definitely gets my creative juices flowing!
I normally hike at Temescal in Santa Monica. What is your favorite hike in Malibu, Mark?
Mark's favorite is the hike you're not at.
30,000 of his best friends all trying to get advice and autographs tagging along would not make for a relaxing day.
"Observe the verticality of the natural world."
Nicely said. Yoda-like.
"The natural world, observe the verticality of."
Purple Nurple? Beg tell!
Great stuff!I I've found with slow down, just be present. It makes it much better.
Hi Mark,
Have to 100% disagree with #4. If you are in a park or urban hiking fine. However if you venture into a wilderness setting (even if part of a established park) please take water and a even a small amount of food. I know some tragic stories of "day hikers, short hikers" who have lost their lives from wandering off of an established trail (just to get a better look at something) or being caught in a sudden change of weather.
Also remember, we are a community. You don't always bring something for yourself. You bring something for the person who you may find that is really lost and needs water or food.
I agree with John on #4. As an avid hiker, I can't tell you how many times I have seen someone walk out on a popular, local trail for a "short hike", only to find themselves in trouble and ill-prepared. Last year we were hiking out from a trail and just 300 ft or so from the parking lot a guy had fallen and hurt himself enough to need emergency care. They had nothing between them but a bottle of Coke. The trailhead was just off a major highway, but it still takes time for help to arrive. And I can't even tell you some of the stories my search and rescue boyfriend tells me. The idea of being unencumbered sounds great until you are stuck out longer than you expected or need help that won't be there soon. Other than that, I love your tips!
Great post!
Just a word of advise. When lifting rocks, takes extra care and be watchful for poisonous snakes and scorpions. In particular, if you are living in an arid or desert area (Arizona for one).
And don't forget to snowshoe in the winter when there is too much snow for plain, old hiking! Plenty of opportunities for that with elevation gains where I live. Talk about a workout – but you must take water and some food in the cold weather. You'd be surprised how much water you need as you snowshoe in winter.
tip 15: keep a small washable laundry sack in your car (about 8 gallons) and fill it with garbage every time you take a hike on your favorite trail/beach. The first few times you'll have no problem filling it. keep several if you go with groups
Have to disagree with #1 — for me as a solo female hiker, I like crowds because I feel safer. Attacks against female joggers and hikers are just too common for my comfort level.
The trick is to go fairly early in the morning to a popular spot — there will be other quiet early-morning types there, but you avoid the crowds and loud groups.
Great tips for hiking lovers. Comfortable clothes and footwear are necessary otherwise if you feel uncomfortable you can't enjoy anymore.
Hike to the highest peak in your area? Lol….. that's called mountain climbing, and requires WAY more training than I'm likely to ever have.
We live in Upstate New York near the Adirondack Mountains. My son and I started doing the High Peaks of which there are 46. Once complete you join the ranks of the Forty Sixers. Over the past few years we have completed 7. Most are day hikes and sometimes you can combine two together for a long day. What a great challenge they are. Once on summit I get in my pushups to max reps, you feel so alive once on top.
Mark, the last hike I went on the logs were 3′ in diameter and 30-40′ long. I would love for you to come up here to Oregon and show me how you balance one on each shoulder!
Is number 4 a bit irresponsible for most of the people? An accident could happen …
It's the question of one of my reader when I share the post.


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