text:
Not everyone gets cards from Fermilab.
Democrat Bill Foster's Longworth office is a modest one, its small waiting area festooned with the requisite Lincolnia befitting a House member from Illinois.
Amid the Land of Lincoln regalia is a more personal effect of the man who represents the 11th District, offering a hint of his role as Congress' science guy. Displayed on the shelves are greetings and salutations from his friends at Fermilab, the national laboratory where Foster helped hunt down the top quark and pursue other experimental physics for nearly a quarter century. The snow-scaped image of Fermilab's upside-down-Y-shaped Wilson Hall helps define who Foster is: a man whose scientific acumen has informed his life as an entrepreneur, physicist and public servant.
Foster has been proudly flying the science flag in the halls of Congress. On the floor, he's gleefully pushed for the House's science measures, even working in references to Star Wars.
In June he hobnobbed with Bill Nye the Science Guy at the White House Maker Faire, a kind of summit to push innovative entrepreneurship.
This is a man who seems comfortable verging into science geekiness.
"I'm sort of of three phases in my adult lifetime," Foster explained to CQ Roll Call.
The first was his founding of Electronic Theatre Controls with his brother Fred, a firm that supplies lighting systems across the globe and helped earn the lawmaker a spot on Roll Call's 50 Richest Members of Congress .
The second was his life in "energy particle physics, and most of that at the Fermi National Accelerator Lab," according to Foster, a phase that lasted almost a quarter century before he decided to step into public life.
It was Foster's coming to a better understanding of his father's life that helped him make the leap to the third phase.
"My dad spent most of the 50s and early 60s actually acting as sort of an advance man for the Justice Department, as a civil rights lawyer," Foster said. "So it was actually reading his papers after he passed away a few years ago that first started me thinking about this. ... What fraction of your life do you spend in service to your fellow man?"
His parents, G.W. Foster and Jeanette Raymond, met while they were both working on Capitol Hill. His father was an aide for Sen. Francis J. Myers, D-Pa., and his mother worked for Sen. Paul Douglas, D-Ill. His father, who started off as a chemist, saw his work on the Hill and for the Justice Department converge eventually when he helped write parts of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Foster got his political start working for the 2006 House campaign of Democrat Patrick Murphy in Pennsylvania. Foster said he had an agreement with campaign manager Scott Fairchild "that I would do every job in the campaign."
Murphy won that race, and it sounds like Foster experienced it like most campaign staff do: in humble circumstances. "I spent a couple of months just in the Ramada Inn across from campaign headquarters in Bucks County. The real glamour part. I think it was across the street from the adult bookstore. But it was a great campaign," he recalled.
Foster himself won a 2008 special election to replace former Speaker J. Dennis Hastert, won a full term in 2008, then lost in the 2010 GOP wave. He managed to win his way back to Congress in 2012, and found himself in a quirky but exclusive, informal caucus. "I sometimes introduce myself as saying I represent 50 percent of the strategic reserve of physicists in Congress," he said. "And with the retirement of Rush Holt, my workload's going to double."
There may just be a demand for such a member. Science is in the public eye right now. This month's 45th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing reminded people of the value of scientific discovery. The House also has moved on legislation to shore up funding at the Energy Department's Office of Science, as well as for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programs, in addition to a measure to increase the efficiency of research and development programs.
Foster, who told CQ Roll Call that the current environment in Congress is not the most conducive to "logical reasoning and fact-based debate," applauds such moves, perhaps realizing one must strike while the iron is hot.
"It's wonderful to see more of my colleagues recognizing the importance of investing in STEM education and scientific research and development," he told CQ Roll Call in an email when asked his thoughts about this month's spate of science-related floor action. For Foster, minding such matters is important for global competitiveness, a talking point other politicians bandy about but usually don't find much time or effort to tend to.
So over the course of the summer, the entrepreneur/experimental physicist/politician has been playing the role of science guy. Last month on the floor he even gave a shout out to the Joliet Public Library Star Wars Day:
Madam Speaker, as a scientist, it is not often that I come to the floor to speak out on works of science fiction, but I rise today to recognize the Fifth Annual Star Wars Day, hosted by the Joliet Public Library on Saturday, June 7, 2014.
The event not only brings the community together into the historic and welcoming streets of downtown Joliet, but also promotes literacy, science, technology, engineering, and math in a fun and exciting atmosphere that captivates young minds. Thanks to the library's Star Wars Day, no Jedi mind tricks are needed to get children to read over the summer.
In its 5 years, Star Wars Day has grown to over 7,000 attendees, thanks to the hard work of many people. And as the Star Wars parade marched proudly down Ottawa Street, with Imperial Storm Troopers, Jedi Knights, and Ewoks in full costume, I would like to especially recognize the Sand People who, of course, march single file to hide their numbers.
Foster gave his remarks with a straight face, but with obvious awareness of the sublime nature of his one-minute speech. (See video below.) The Illinois Democrat thinks making people aware of the science surrounding them is one way to ensure the United States stays competitive.
"The amount of subtle and beautiful physics that's necessary to make a smartphone work is enormous," he said. "We have to make sure that every generation grows up to appreciate that technology and the understanding that it takes a lot of hard work and careful thought to get an understanding of that fundamental physics. If we don't, we're going to lose our technological edge in this country."
Maybe the way to pique the interest in science and physics is to boil it down to its most elemental activity: Blowing things up.
"There is an almost universal experience in physicists, at least of my generation, which is home-made pyrotechnics. We can never really compete with the generation before mine, whose experience as young people was the Manhattan Project," Foster said, laughing. "And so there is, I think, a fundamental human instinct to take things apart and see what's inside them, because that's really what these giant accelerators do. You smash things together to find out what's inside them, and what can be created in these collisions. I think it's a fundamental thing."


text:
Real Estate Tips: The Kitchen Effect
Kitchen The kitchen is perhaps the most important room in the house. It can have a major impact on the value of your real estate property. In a practical point of view, the kitchen should be the cleanest part of the house because this is where you prepare your food. That is why it is…Continue reading →

subset: commoncrawl


text:
This is a vibrant and lively wine, with generous ripe fruit on the palate and a long, clean finish. The Tulloch name has long been synonymous with Verdelho and we celebrate our commitment to this uniquely Australian style of wine with this release.
Variety: Verdelho
Type: White
Colour: Pale straw with a green hue.
Nose: Rich tropical fruit, musk stick and lime.
Palate: Typical varietal characters of tropical fruits and lively spice balanced by a fine acid finish.
Cellaring: 1 – 5 years.
Food Matching: Chilli and spice and Asian flavours.
Technical Information
pH: 3.26
Alc: 13.0%
Recipe Matches
There are no reviews yet.
Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.


text:
On the epistemology of the extra-ordinary. Or: Do we need to waste our time proving that unicorns do not exist?
Do we need to prove that unicorns, tooth fairies, hobbits and so on do not exist? The question is not just funny, insofar as an upholder of the existence of ghosts and the like could easily claim that —strictly speaking— Continue reading


text:
This is the first work of the author, and in fact he just put the wheels already on, an existing model that others have the author, and therefore can be regarded as a cover version of the model. A model of excellent permeability, light works and there is animation Coil.
Credits: BenjiBonz
Extract the downloaded content into your "Program Files (x86) \ Steam \ SteamApps \ common \ Spintires \ Media" folder.


text:
Harmony Dental
location on Google Maps.
in new tab.
on social media.
At Harmony Dental Center, we believe that living a healthy lifestyle in balance with nature leads to fewer medical conditions. This in turn results in a healthier mouth, teeth and gums. Because it is not always possible in today's world to live in harmony with nature, we strive to restore dental health to our patients by providing high quality dental care in a quiet, calm and harmonious environment.
Business Hours
Monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed


text:
This is the diet I follow. The doctor has some Youtube videos out that you can watch to get an idea of what he recommends. He also has a book. I started vegan about four months ago but after watching his video I immediately dropped oils and nuts. He recommends: no meat, no foul, no fish, no dairy, no oils and no nuts. And no avocado. Watch his video on Youtube and you will understand how he came to his diet conclusions via the clinical experiment he personally conducted. -R
Search our archives for articles on your topic of interest.
For Example: Vehicles or Household Items
August 2019


text: With a passion of all genres of music, he started studying the art of perfecting saxophone playing from the age of 14. He pursued his skills & certificates and graduated with a distinction in Grade 8 ABRSM majoring in Saxophone. To further develop his experience & talent, he is now a part of the Birdian Saxophone Quartet, KLPAC Symphonic Band & KLPAC Orchestra. He was also a guest player for UM's Orchestra in their Concert of Celebrating Love & Life – A royal concert in honour of His Royal Highness Sultan Azlan Shah. A full time piano technician in Yamaha Music Malaysia and also a full time saxophone player, he is one to look for when you are considering a highly professional, devoted & passionate saxophonist. Credentials say it all. Watch our "Zealous Artist" in action!


text:
We've reached 50 Neighbourhood Groups in our Network!
This was our goal for 2018! 27 of those groups wouldn't exist if we hadn't helped them get started. Congratulations to our own team member Bec who started the 50th group in Bayswater, Vic. Thanks to all who contributed to getting us to this important milestone!


text:
Evelyn Gossen and Simon Kolle, both from Bad Pyrmont, Germany, spent last year in central Ohio as exchange students. They lived with families from our church, went to school with my younger siblings, and became involved in my youth group. Before they returned home I (David) told them of my plans to be in Germany this spring, and told them I would try to visit them. They both seemed quite excited to have me visit their area of the world, and when I emailed Simon about the possibility of meeting up with them after our trip actually started, I quickly understood that they would do everything in their power to make our jaunt to Bad Pyrmont be as enjoyable as possible.
We had to overcome some travails in finding Simon's house, but we arrived just in time to go to his youth group's Bible study with him. We made him late, and as we were on our way, Simon's sister Anna-Lena? Called to say everyone was waiting for us to arrive. We arrived at the church and introduced ourselves and tried to remember everyone's names (without success). Before the Bible study we ate a meal of hamburgers (American-style as Simon called them). They were delicious and they kept bringing out more and more of them. They had cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, dried onions, ketchup, and "hamburger sauce" to dress up the burgers even more. I found it interesting that the hamburger sauce proclaimed itsself as being "American" and had a picture of the Statue of Liberty on it, but I have never seen any such sauce in the US.
After supper we started Bible study off with a time of worship. About half of the songs in their chorusbook were in English so we sang mainly English songs. They have a cajon, a wood box that you sit on and hit to make drum noises, and Simon insisted that I play it. (He remembered that I would always bring my djembe, an African hand drum, to Bible study back home.) After singing and a long period of sharing, Simon talked about David and Goliath. Evelyn translated the message for us to help us understand what was being said.
After Bible study the youth group decided they should take us up to the Spelunkerturm, a tower overlooking Bad Pyrmont and show us the lights of the city. It allowed us to further connect with the youth group and hear more about their lives and town in which they live. We learned that Bad Pyrmont is a popular retirement community because it has springs of natural mineral water that "is good for the blood." We joked that their tower was much more impressive than the Eiffel Tower that we had just visited and that Bad Pyrmont is much more impressive to see than Paris. After getting down from the tower we drew manes out of a hat to determine which two of us would spend the night at Simon's house and who would stay at Evelyn's house. Dan Ziegler and I ended up at Simon's while the others went to Evelyn's. Evelyn's father, Walter, told us that Simon's father, Bernhard, had heard a noise from our car and suggested we check it out. We had been wanting to have a mechanic check out our car anyhow, so we agreed. Walter said he would call his mechanic in the morning and get it looked at.
We got up Friday morning and discovered that the shop that Walter planned on using was booked full. We discussed our options over a delicious breakfast prepared by Simon's mom, Damaris. Matt and Dan Shenk showed up at 10:20 and we decided to try out some other mechanic shops. Bernhard and Damaris went with us and the third shop we tried was able to look at it right away. They informed us that our tires were illegal because they were too bald, which did not surprise us, but they were able to sell us used tires to help keep the cost down. We also got them to change the oil for us and replace the rear rotors, which were in really bad shape. They also suggested we replace the suspension because our car was "bouncing like a Citroen." They did not like the fact that our finely-tuned piece of German engineering was preforming like a French car. We decided it wasn't worth spending money on our car to keep it from bouncing (especially since they told us that it wasn't compromising our safety). Bernhard was extremely helpful translator for us; without him it would have been much more difficult to understand what needed to be fixed with the car. We were relieved that nothing major was wrong with our car and thankful that our prayer in finding the right shop was answered. Our troubles were inexpensive to fix (we saved a bunch of money buying used tires, which most shops don't sell), and having the car ready in only several hours.
We walked back to the Kolle's house from the shop with Bernhard and he showed us some beautiful spots in Bad Pyrmont. He also took us by a natural spring of mineral water and we all got a drink. He told us that a company bottles Bad Pyrmon's water and sells it throughout Germany for exhorbitant prices.
When we got back to the Kolle's house, a large, delicious spaghetti meal was waiting for us. After lunch Dan Ziegler and I went with Bernhard to pick up the car. We also tried to buy some roof bars to properly attach our roof box, but they wanted €110 for them. We politely declined and moved on. We got back to the Kolle's house and went inside. A few minutes later, Bernhard came into the house beaming and told us he found an old set of roof bars in his garage that don't fit his new car, and we could have them. They fit our passat and we installed them right then and there. What an answer to prayer! Bernhard also gave us locks for the roof bars. He could still use them, but insisted we take them.
Then Simon, Evelyn, and Simon's sister, Sarah-Lena took us to several castles, but we weren't able to enter them for different reasons. Apparently someone lives in the one castle and didn't want visitors, and the other had a special event. A classic rock cover band was playing and we heard them play several Beatles songs before they played "Hang on Sloopy." It was odd hearing Ohio's state rock song being played in Bad Pyrmont, Germany. Simon, Evelyn, and Sarah-Lena then treated us to some ice cream. We went to a specialty ice cream shop that makes their ice cream look like other foods, or covers them in fruit or sauces. I got a dish of vanilla, strawberry, and raspberry ice cream covered in blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries. Dan Ziegler got a dish similar to mine but had kiwis instead of mixed fruit. Dan Shenk got a cappuccino ice cream/drink mix, and matt got a dish of ice cream that looked like spaghetti. It all tasted absolutely fabulous.
We arrived back at the Kolle's house with full stomachs, but found a small supper waiting for us. After supper we prayed together as a large group and took some pictures before finally leaving for Denmark. We got off later than planned, but we all agreed that Bad Pyrmont was one of the top highlights of the trip so far. We are finding that our most enjoyable experiences come when we are interacting with others.
We were greatly humbled by the generosity that was lavished upon us. Bernhard mentioned that we need to take care of other Christians, and he took this principal to heart. They gave us wonderful food and comfortable beds, but helped us get our car fixed, gave us roof bars and locks, payed for our ice cream and a car wash, and went out of their way to help us out in whatever way they could. It was a great reminder of how we need to act and help others whenever we have the opportunity.
david miller


text:
Our new sachet collection boxes feature 50 of our biodegradable pyramid sachets filled with whole leaf tea. Each sachet is individually wrapped and sealed so as to maximize freshness, making it the perfect pocket companion for those travelling and on the go. While convenient for use at home and in the office, the delicate gold detailing and pastel colours make for a welcomed gift.
STEEPING INSTRUCTIONS: Steep 1 sachet per 12 ounces of freshly boiled water for 5 minutes. Savour straight or complement with milk.


text:
So I'm sitting here pretending to work, but really scheming about what to make for dinner, and I end up reading a recipe on MaverickEats for pasta with sardines and goat's cheese (how I got there is one of the great things about interwebbing and social networking – I'm mentally scanning through what's in the kitchen, I know I want to make pasta, and I'm keen on using the tin of sardines in the cupboard, then I remember there's goat's cheese too, which I love, but can goat's cheese and sardines work? Has anyone else out there been brave enough to try? Go google, and there you go: I'm not crazy after all!).
Anyhow, so the recipe looks good (I haven't yet decided if it'll work for the Philosophe, though usually when I assure him I didn't invent it myself he loses his fear of some of my wierder concoctions), but it's important to read comments too. Here's the first one, from "costa rica":
'This article is fantastic; the information you show us is very interesting and is really good written. It's just great!! Do you want to know something more? Read it… Glass Bongs and Bong featuring Herbal Smoke, water bongs, bongs online head shop, Marijuana Alternative,glass water bongs, Hashish, Ganja, homemade bongs, Smokeshop, cannibis, legal smoking alternatives for herbal highs and aphrodisia. http://www.headshopinternational.com'
The second comment is in Chinese, so there's no intel to be had on the sardines and goat's cheese combo. Now I just have a head full of bongs. I guess the philosophe will have to be brave tonight.


text:
Tricks On How To Effectively Homeschool Your Kids
For parents who want more control over their children's education, homeschooling may be an option worth looking into. Studies have shown that homeschooled children actually do better on achievement tests than their public school counterparts. It is not for everyone, however, and there are a lot of things to think about. Read these tips about homeschooling.
Do not limit your teaching to only textbooks. Within reason, expose your child to different types of reading materials other than texts and novels. Newspapers, blogs and even comic books are useful teaching tools. Interesting discussions can develop as a result of current events, so have your child read timely articles as a way to further their education. By asking them to tell you what they think about what they just read, you will help them learn how to analyze things, which is something they will need throughout life.
You don't have to homeschool for your child's entire education. You can do it for one year to correct shortcomings and behavioral issues. You could do it until middle school or high school. If you wish, they can be homeschooled right until college. The best part is that it's totally up to you!
Define an area in your home where teaching is to take place. While it may be tempting to let your child do their work anywhere, it's important to have a defined area in the home that is dedicated to 'school'. This area needs to be quiet, well-lit and free of all distractions.
Get in touch with the homeschooling association in your state to find out the rules where you live. There are states which require every homeschool to open a private school. If your state requires it, make sure you notify your school district that you are homeschooling.
When you are first beginning homeschooling it is a good idea to reach out to others who homeschool also. People who have been doing it for a while can give you valuable advice about things that worked and didn't work for them. Even if you have been homeschooling for a long time, it is always okay to seek advice from others.
Keep at it even if you feel like throwing in the towel. It takes time to develop a plan that works for both, you and your child. Many new homeschoolers give up too soon because they feel overwhelmed in the beginning, but after a year most homeschooling parents have settled in and enjoy homeschooling their children.
A strict homeschool schedule is a top priority. Each Sunday, take the time to plan the week's lessons, excursions and meals. It is important to begin each school day with a structured plan that your child can get used to following. They will learn easier and be more productive when they know each day's expectations.
By following sensible advice and putting in the work, your children can get a first class education in the home. Hopefully, these tips have given you some ideas you can implement yourself. Homeschooling as risen dramatically in recent years, and there are many success stories. With preparation, you can offer your children a great education and have some control over the curriculum. Good luck.


text:
Thursday, June 6, 2019
Astronomy Night at UC Berkeley
Lecture | June 6 | 7:30-10:30 p.m. | 131 Campbell Hall
Sean Ressler, UC Berkeley
This month's Astronomy Night @ UC Berkeley features a talk by finishing Berkeley PhD student Sean Ressler on the supermassive black hole at the center of our galaxy.
As always, come join us at Campbell Hall on the UC Berkeley campus on the first Thursday of every month for a FREE night of astronomy and stargazing on the roof with our fleet of telescopes.
Friday, June 7, 2019
Members' Walk: South America
Lecture | June 7 | 1-2 p.m. | UC Botanical Garden
Noah Gapsis, UC Botanical Garden
Garden members, are invited to take an in-depth look into the South America collection with Horticulturist Noah Gapsis. The Gardens South American Area represents the floras of the temperate and mediterranean-climate areas of South America, featuring plants from the matorral of coastal Chile. The South American matorral is comparable to the chaparral of California and the maquis vegetation of... More >
Simons Institute Theoretically Speaking Series Algorithms and the Law
Lecture | June 7 | 6-7:30 p.m. | David Brower Center
2150 Allston Way, Berkeley, CA 94704
Shafi Goldwasser, Simons Institute for the Theory of Computing; Martha Minow, Harvard University; Elliot Schrage, Facebook; Patricia Williams, Columbia University
Peter Bartlett, Simons Institute for the Theory of Computing
Simons Institute for the Theory of Computing
This panel will explore the contemporary promises and challenges of computer algorithms from the perspectives of lawyers, ethicists, philosophers, and computer scientists. What is missing from the current technological debates on the fairness and privacy of algorithmic decision making and their impact on the social fabric? What are promising tools of governance and frames of analysis? What do... More >


text:
Actual arrival: September 26, 2009
Actual departure: September 29, 2009
Boston Port Host: Sailors for the Sea
Public Events during the Boston Port Call – September 25-29
Event: Dockside open house including opportunities to meet the crew, view Ocean Watch, and see marine science demonstrations conducted by the onboard educator from the Pacific Science Center. All ages welcome, no cost to attend.
Date: Saturday, September 27th
Time: 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Location: Rowes Wharf near the Fort Point Channel Footbridge: 70 Rowes Wharf, Boston, MA 02110.
*Please note that all event dates, times and locations are subject to change. Please refer to this page for updates. Email email@example.com with questions.
Boston Background
The Port of Boston is a major seaport and one of the principal ports on the eastern coast of the United States. The Port has played a crucial role throughout the city's history and has been vital to Boston's growth and wealth. Today, the Port annually handles more than 14 metric tons of cargo and over 80 cruise ship visits with over 200,000 passengers. During the last decade, Boston has spent more than $4 billion to clean up Boston Harbor with varying degrees of success.
The Boston Harbor Association: http://www.tbha.org
Boston Chamber of Commerce: http://www.bostonchamber.com


text:
Congratulations to One Call Water our January Business of the Month!
25 years ago this month, Mike Chesnut started One Call Water in Syracuse, IN providing quality water softeners and excellent service to Syracuse and the surrounding communities. The excellence continues to this day.
We offer the finest of water treatment products available in the industry. Our equipment is American made by Hague Quality Water of Columbus, Ohio. With this equipment and our many years of experience, we can provide the Right Solution for your individual water problems – Sulfur (rotten egg smell), Iron (rust), Hardness, Ph, Chlorine, Nitrates, and other problems that are common to Northern Indiana water.
We also have the best prices and service on salt and water both in the store and on our scheduled route delivery.
We service most makes and models of water treatment equipment.


text:
Save and Track Your Favourite Properties
** All fields required
Please enter the following information:
Register Today to Attend Our FREE Seminar & Learn More!
An exclusive listings network that fully integrates with TREB's MLS® and allows you to instantly discover and share Exclusives, Assignments and MLS® Coming Soon Listings.
You can easily promote your "off-market" listings and get access to a hidden listing inventory.
No more water cooler ...
Bradford Santa Claus Parade 2013
The Santa Claus Parade Bradford was well attended this past Saturday November 16, 2013. It was wonderful weather for a parade Saturday night as creative, brightly lit floats and festive music moved along Holland Street in Bradford.
The parade commenced promptly at 6:30PM from Bradford High School and carried South on Holland Street to Simcoe Road into the downtown ...
Free Cake at Carrot Fest Bradford With
Century 21 Heritage Group Ltd.
Century 21 Heritage Group Ltd. real estate brokerage will be celebrating Carrot Fest on August 17, 2013. Please stop by their central and conveniently located office at 49 Holland St. W. in downtown Bradford at noon for a slice of FREE cake. Due to allergy diet restrictions we can not serve carrot cake (cake may still be ...
Start Your Day Off With A Visit To Your Local Farmer's Market
Farmers Markets are a great way to support local farmers and mingle with members in your community. They typically offer locally grown foods, homemade desserts and crafts. Not all Farmers Markets are the same, some offer live music, horse and wagon rides, special offers from local businesses or draws. Take time out of your busy week ...
Richmond Hill, ON. is located centrally in York Region Ontario, Canada. As part of the Greater Toronto Area Richmond Hill is a community that is constantly offering local events to entertain residents within the community and peak their interests. Community events are a great way to get to know the community and the residents that live there-your neighbours!
Pitch in CANADA ...


text:
Our recruitment week at Vanderbilt was a great success as we distributed 300 copies of The Morality of Capitalism to students in five days of tabling. We added close to 150 new students to our lists while educating new students about our organization's mission.
We'll be having our first official meeting next Wednesday (9/7) in Commons Center Room 237 at 6PM. Our guest speaker is our faculty advisor, Prof. John Lachs, Centennial Professor of Philosophy. Prof. Lachs will be speaking on the "The Significance of Individuals." Please come join us as we introduce the philosophy of liberty to first year students!
There will be FREE catered dinner and drinks!
RSVP here: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=162162563859392


text:
Boulevard San Diego Gas & Electric held a symbolic ground breaking near here last week, launching the construction of their $1.9 billion Sunrise Powerlink, the 117-miles electric transmission line that the utility promises will transport electricity cleanly generated in Imperial County to San Diego.
But about 80 protestors &mdash who argue the line has little to do with clean power &mdash did their best to spoil the party, chanting loudly, honking horns and waving signs along the dirt road that SDG&E used to haul several busloads of invited guests out to remote Rough Acres Ranch for the ground-breaking.
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who played a key role in winning approval for the line and attended the event, called Sunrise the type of "big, bold" project needed to create a clean energy future and said it was key to the development of other solar and renewable energy projects in Imperial County.
But Bill Powers, an engineer who specializes in electric generating systems and is a leading opponent of the project, said Sunrise and similar projects make no economic or environmental sense. A strategy that places solar panels on urban rooftops, said Powers, will avoid the huge costs of building transmission lines to the desert, as well as the environmental damage that will come from large construction projects in the backcountry (one Imperial County project will cover 10 square miles).
Continually declining prices for photovoltaic panels, as well as improvements in the efficiency of these devices will make a future of distributed electric generation even more compelling, said Powers. The only reason for continuing to build expensive power lines and big remote electric facilities is to boost utility company profits, he said.
SDG&E spent more than five years and $450 million just to reach last week's groundbreaking. The utility has refused to pledge the line will carry only renewably generated power but insists the line will improve regional electric reliability and allow it to reach a state mandate that will require utilities to derive 33 percent of their electricity from green sources by 2020.
Opponents, meanwhile, continue with legal challenges to the project in state and federal courts, as well within regulatory agencies.
More from SDReader
- More stories by Craig D. Rose
- Sempra Energy, Pacific Gas & Electric, Edison overspend with impunity — Feb. 3, 2016
- PUC Loves SDG&E — Sept. 2, 2009
- For Obama Sunrise a "poster child" for renewable-energy strategy — May 27, 2009
- Clouds on SDG&E's Sunny Plans — Jan. 28, 2009
- Sunrise Powerlink — a chess game for the big guys — May 28, 2008
Despite SDG&E's UT-reported claim that this project will reduce SDG&E's wholesale cost of electricity, virtually every SDG&E-filed application to California's Public Utilities Commission dealing with rates paid by consumers is for a retail rate hike.
Two notable examples: A0908020 Wildfire Expense Balancing Account (WEBA) proceeding on consumer ratepayers getting the tab for utility overhead equipment failures leading to wildfire legal and other costs, and A1007009 PeakShift at Work/ PeakShift at Home (PSW/PSH) small business and residential rate hikes even if Sunrise Powerlink goes online and delivers the maximum amount of power to customers in the SDG&E service area.
Thanks for posting this Craig, I was at the protest and was happy there was such a good turnout of those against the Sunrise Powerlink.
SDG&E is on the brink of forever changing the San Diego back-country and here they are dressed in suits patting each other on the back for a job well done. What they have done is a complete "Green Wash" of this entire project. There is nothing green about cutting through untouched wilderness for an antiquated powerline that is unnecessary.
To use the title of your article, I would say that the Governor, SDG&E, and the Sunrise Powerlink supporters attending the event were the "uninvited guests" to our pristine backcountry, Regards, Bob B. Leucadia http://www.anzaborrego.net/
I agree with your comments; this was a Boondoggle from the beginning and if the CPC had any real pro consumers on it, this project would have never been considered!
Why consumers DON'T question why SDG&E share holders have had record earning while our rates have continued to climb (paying for those profits) is beyond me!


text:
About Lower Back Pain & Intramuscular Stimulation To Treat It
Is there a great deal of pain in the lower area of your back after heavy lifting? It is possible that your back is hurting because there is a problem with your spinal nerves, but an orthopaedic specialist may be able to treat it with a procedure called intramuscular stimulation. Find out below about lower back pain that stems from spinal nerves, as well as how intramuscular stimulation can give you relief.
How Can a Problem with Spinal Nerves Lead to Lower Back Pain?
It is possible that something in your back was damaged when you lifted the heavy object. Improper lifting can damage the nerves attached to your spine, which can leave you in pain until you get treated. Your joints and muscles can also accumulate a lot of pressure when you fail to keep your spinal cord straight when bending and standing back up to lift a heavy object.
Keep in mind that lower back pain can also stem from another area of your body known as the hip flexor muscles. The hip flexor muscles can cause problems for your back because they are attached to the spinal nerves. Hip flexor muscle tightening is what can affect the spinal nerves, which can be treated with intramuscular stimulation to relieve your lower back pain.
What Happens When Intramuscular Stimulation is Performed?
An orthopaedic specialist (such as one from Orthopaedic Associates Of Osceola) can treat your hip flexor muscles by making them contract. Basically, he or she will examine the hip flexors and ask you if you feel any pain in them. Manually touching the muscles will also allow the specialist to find hardened areas that are tensed up. The hard muscles will be the focus of the intramuscular stimulation procedure, as relieving the tension will also improve the amount of pressure your spinal nerves is causing in the lower back.
The specialist will place thin needles in the hip flexors and move them back and forth until your muscles begin to contract. The contractions are supposed to happen because it is how tension will be relieved. You may feel a little pain during the process, but the specialist can give you pain medication. Your spinal nerves should relax and relieve your lower back pain after the tension is removed from the hip flexors.
You must keep your spine protected by keeping it aligned when you are lifting something heavy. However, your hip flexors can also pose a problem for your spine when they become tight. Make an appointment with an orthopaedic specialist to see if intramuscular stimulation can get rid of your back pain as soon as possible!


text:
Jekyll Island in Glynn County, Georgia — The American South (South Atlantic)
Major William Horton
Came to Georgia in 1736
Died at Savannah in 1748
These are the remains of Horton's tabby house. Major Horton of Oglethorpe's Regiment, the first English resident of Jekyll Island, erected on the north end of Jekyll a two-story dwelling and large barn. He cleared fields here for cultivation of crops which supplied the settlers at Frederica on St. Simons Island, a neighboring island, who would have suffered except for this assistance. Major Horton cut a road across the north end of Jekyll, running east and west, from this tabby house to the beach. This road is still known as the Horton Road.
Major Horton was a trusted officer chosen by James Oglethorpe for important missions. Upon Oglethorpe's final return to England in 1743, Major Horton succeeded him as commander of the military forces of the Colony of Georgia.
Poulain du Bignon, owner of Jekyll Island after the Revolutionary War, repaired the Horton tabby house and made it his home. As the du Bignon family grew, wooden wings were added to the house.
Erected 1956 by Georgia Historical
Marker series. This marker is included in the Georgia Historical Society/Commission marker series.
Location. 31° 6.103′ N, 81° 24.876′ W. Marker is in Jekyll Island, Georgia, in Glynn County. Marker is on Riverview Drive near Major Horton Drive, on the right when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Jekyll Island GA 31527, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Tabby (here, next to this marker); Horton House Historic Site (here, next to this marker); Poulain DuBignon and DuBignon Burying Ground (within shouting distance of this marker); Horton House Historical Site (within shouting distance of this marker); Horton House (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Horton House Historic Site (within shouting distance of this marker); Le Sieur Christophe Anne Poulain Du Bignon (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); a different marker also named Horton House Historical Site (about 300 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Jekyll Island.
Categories. • Colonial Era • Landmarks • Military • Settlements & Settlers •
More. Search the internet for Major William Horton.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. This page originally submitted on April 2, 2009, by Mike Stroud of Bluffton, South Carolina. This page has been viewed 1,343 times since then and 6 times this year. Photos: 1. submitted on April 2, 2009, by Mike Stroud of Bluffton, South Carolina. 2, 3, 4. submitted on April 3, 2009, by Mike Stroud of Bluffton, South Carolina. • Craig Swain was the editor who published this page.


text:
Tips To Lead A Positive Lifestyle
Sunday, 2 April 2017
You May Also Like
6 comments:
I'm the worst for yo-yoing between a positive and a negative lifestyle...I try to be positive and then I end up overthinking and paranoid over the smallest things.ReplyDelete
Alicia x
I love this post of yours and I agree with everything. I've got a bub and I've taken on full time studies aswell. I always try to focus on the good andtake anything negative out. I bare in mind that whatever I am doing; I'm doing for our future. I have started to take some time out every month and do something I want to do.ReplyDelete
Rachael Blogs Beauty
Being positive is so easy that it's hard! People can do it but they don't want to be let down which is just a part of life!ReplyDelete
I find being a postitve person so difficult at times but this post is such a good insight! Lovely read xxxReplyDelete
Blog Archive
- ▼ April (4)


text:
As in every season, in winter 2007-2008, the Custo style prevails over trends, working each garment as though it were a graphic universe. The colours and strokes are still the real leitmotiv of the collection, an adventure the designer undertakes every six months with the concept of travel as experience and the urban lifestyle as his main sources of inspiration.
Dark Luxury
For winter 2007-2008 Custo Barcelona draws an intense contemporary figure with softer colours and the omnipresent black throughout the collection, a new value that the creator incorporates and diffuses in the design of each piece.
Luxury is another key element this season, an aspect that Custo Barcelona work into their most contemporary, relaxed and everyday version in precious fabrics, with lurex thread and sophisticated lines.
The Conquest of Volume
Curved shapes and volume are the stars of the collection, creating enfolding garments inclined towards the architectural, which, far from hiding the body, actually emphasis it. Gathers, pleats, box pleats and other sewing techniques that add volume to garments are the highlight of the season, along with a certain tendency towards the oversized.
A seductive range of dresses with batwing sleeves, baby dolls, bomber jackets with seventies spirit, culottes and knickerbockers are some of the season's star garments, made from fabrics such as printed silks and viscose.
Enfolding Winter
Polo, funnel or oversized necks crown sweaters, dresses and outer garments, emphasising the tops, as do the hoods, which are treated as accessories and are decorated, lined and incorporated into the garment.
There is an air of the British countryside about the outer garments the collection proposes: coats, parkas, three-quarter coats and jackets made from wool with both rustic and delicate finishes, while the firm still prefers synthetic fur to the real thing.
Fine merino wools lend the cardigans and sweaters in the collection a natural yet contemporary air.
Men's line
A cosmopolitan sensitivity runs through the men's fashions inspired by the rhythm of international capitals with a touch of vintage in the details and finishes. Dragons, old fabric patches and motifs derivative of wallpaper adorn outer garments which are once again the true stars of the 2007-2008 winter collection.
Public Relations:
Deborah Hughes, Inc
311 West 43rd Street, Suite 1102
New York, NY 10036
Contact: Deborah Hughes


text:
Sure, there's a bit of schadenfreude watching the first few episodes of each season's Dancing with the Stars. It's fun to watch celebs — many of whom have excelled at singing, sports, comedy and other arenas (hello, Rick Perry) — discover they've actually got two left feet when it comes to dancing.
But the real magic in the television show is what the professional dancers and choreographers are able to accomplish as they mold their assigned partners into seasoned hoofers. Lindsay Arnold seems to have nailed the winning formula, as she's the first DWTS professional to have finished fourth, third, second and first in four consecutive seasons.
In recent years Arnold has done quite well with her assigned partners: National Guard member Alek Skarlatos, Boyz II Men singer Wanya Morris, NFL player Calvin Johnson Jr. and MLB catcher David Ross.
But last November Arnold, along with singer/actor Jordan Fisher, finished in first place, while also setting the record for having the most perfect scores. They earned solid tens across the board, including from guest judge and two-time professional DWTS champion Julianne Hough. "Most of my seasons, they have no idea what it's like, working with athletes, some new to the spotlight. But this season with Jordan Fisher was different," says Arnold. "He has performed before; he has been in front of an audience."
Fisher, who cut his acting chops on television's Grease: Live and the Disney Channel's Live and Maddie, made his Broadway debut when he joined the cast of Hamilton in the dual roles of John Laurens and Philip Hamilton. So instead of having to teach basic skills like confidence-building and performing in front of an audience, Arnold was able to fast-forward the learning curve. "It pushed me as a choreographer," says Arnold. "It was more about creating new things."
Now Arnold and partner Fisher are taking it on the road, appearing in the traveling show, Dancing with the Stars: Live! Light Up The Night!, a 300-costume strong dance-stravaganza coming to Smart Financial Centre in Sugar Land.
Fan favorite Frankie Muniz also is sharing the spotlight, earning his way into the hearts of many as he's transitioned from Malcolm in the Middle child actor, Kingsfoil drummer and pro race car driver to professional dancer. In spite of suffering from memory loss, concussions and mini-strokes, which may or may not be related to multiple car crashes, Muniz and partner Witney Carson finished in third place in the 25th season of DWTS.
If you like this story, consider signing up for our email newsletters.
You have successfully signed up for your selected newsletter(s) - please keep an eye on your mailbox, we're movin' in!
"It's pretty incredible. Coming in to it he was not confident," says Arnold, about Muniz's shaky start. "You'll see in the show, on the tour, he gives it his all; he has fun."
We know Muniz has really worked hard and gotten into shape for his dancing career, but does he have abs yet? "He's definitely getting some," says Arnold. "Not Artem level, but he's getting there."
Light Up The Night! features ensemble numbers, solos, duets, and about 20 costume changes for each dancer. "Basically you're going to see maybe ten to 12 dances. You'll see dances that you've seen before on television," says Arnold. "The rest of the show is the pros getting together. You'll see dance styles — every dance style — that's what's really fun. It's fun, it's hard, it's intense and there's a lot going on, and it's all packed into an hour and 45 minutes."
Dancing with the Stars: Live!, Light Up The Night! is at 7:30 p.m. February 24, Smart Financial Centre, 18111 Lexington Boulevard, Sugar Land, 800-745-3000, smartfinancialcentre.net or ticketmaster.com, $55 to $599.


text:
Intelligence Analyst 6 - Army G2
Analysis | Arlington, VA | Full Time
About Us:
Calhoun International is a Professional Services company providing innovative solutions to our clients. Our expertise ranges from strategic intelligence analysis, expert instruction on intelligence analysis and sensors, cyberspace operations, information systems training, and knowledge management services among others. Calhoun International is located in Tampa, FL with employees in Florida, Virginia, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and overseas. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identification, or national origin.
• Executes and leads research, analysis, and evaluation efforts as well as studies, analyses, assessments, and technical reports. Deliverables produced shall be in a variety of formats in response to a wide range of requirements and delivery schedules. Provides high-level analytical assessments and advice at the Directorate level on complex issues, requiring extensive knowledge of the subject matter. May attend various types of symposia and meetings at the ARSTAF, DOD and within the IC.
• Experience in technical analysis within a broad range of disciplines. Capable of drafting, editing, and finishing deliverables. Experienced and recognized as an Intelligence expert.
• Demonstrated briefing and writing skills.
• Prepare and present briefings on projects, studies and analysis to primary staff members, senior leaders and other Army and Joint Staff.
• Demonstrated knowledge of OSD, Joint and Army organizations, roles, missions and functions as well as Intelligence organizations roles and MI Force structure
• Demonstrated knowledge of Joint and Army processes – QDR, POM, PPBE, JROC, JCIDS, MIP, NIP, TAA, PED, JUONS/ONS, and CONOPS
• Capable of conducting research and drafting detailed studies, presentations, information papers and decision papers for senior leadership
• Strong oral and written communications
• Must have an active TS/SCI Clearance
• Minimum Education: Senior Service College graduate (Army War College or similar Service Staff College preferred); Master's Degree; Force Management School graduate; advanced intelligence discipline training or other equivalent DoD or service Intelligence experience; or Master's degree in equivalent field.
• Minimum Experience: Twenty five (25) or more years of experience as an Army Intelligence analyst with experience from tactical to strategic; directly related intelligence analysis experience with not less than 10 years on the DA Staff, Joint Staff or a closely related DoD organization/agency; Combat deployment experience as an Intelligence Officer
• Desired: Prior service as an Intelligence Officer at Army Service Component Command or COCOM; Service as a combat developer or TRADOC Capabilities Manager (TCM); Brigade level Command experience; HQDA G-8/FDI experience


text:
Contact Us -
All fields required
Oakbrook Terrace Bankruptcy Lawyer - Robert Honig, Attorney at Law
We have been serving families in the Oakbrook Terrace area for over 20 years.
Robert Honig is a respected and highly experienced attorney specializing in the area of bankruptcy law. If you are facing liens, wage garnishment, foreclosures, lawsuits, and financial problems, Robert can help. Stop those annoying calls and gain help from one of this area's most experienced bankruptcy attorneys. While we may not seek television celebrity or offer recorded information, we do offer real help from live people. We believe providing direct one-on-one service is better than being a number in mass marketing. Friendly and conveniently located nearby, our firm will treat you kindly and respectfully. We understand no one plans to be in this situation. We will walk you through everything you need to know. You will gain control and experience relief with a fresh new start. We have helped thousands of families over the past few years. We take great pride in knowing our clients and freeing them of debt. Our clients love us! Give us a call today. Initial consultations are free. Bankruptcy Attorney Oakbrook Terrace Illinois


text:
Setting deadlines for migration to the Single Euro Payments Area ( ) through Regulation provides planning security to all market participants
On 16 December 2010, the European Commission published a proposal for a Regulation establishing technical requirements for credit transfers and direct debits in euros and amending Regulation (EC) No 924/2009 (the 'proposal').
The European Payments Council ( ) welcomes the European Commission's willingness to legislate on end dates for migration to in order to provide certainty to all market participants. The takes this as an indication that the European Commission (the Commission) is committed to finalising the process initiated with adoption of Regulation 2560/2001 on cross-border payments in euro in December 2001. The understanding throughout the past decade shared with the Commission is that this process aims at replacing national euro payment schemes by the Credit Transfer ( ) and Direct Debit ( ) Schemes developed by the . The forthcoming Regulation should result in the replacement of national legacy euro payment schemes by Schemes. In line with expectations expressed by the Finance Ministers, the European Parliament and the European Central Bank, the forthcoming Regulation must set end dates for the phasing out of existing national euro credit transfer and euro direct debit schemes to ensure that the high costs of running multiple payment schemes in parallel can be eliminated.
The explanatory memorandum accompanying the proposal states that "full integration of the payment market will only be achieved once Union-wide payment instruments replace completely the national legacy instruments". The proposal further states that credit transfers shall be carried out in accordance with this regulation twelve months after it comes into force; direct debits shall comply 24 months after it comes into force.
Articles 5 (4) and 12-15, which specify that the European Commission could amend the technical requirements through delegated acts, should be deleted from the proposal
The Annex to the proposal lists the technical requirements to be met by euro credit transfers and direct debits as of the defined end date(s). These requirements are set out in an Annex for the following reason: by not including these requirements in the core legal text of the Regulation, the Commission could be authorised to amend these requirements through so called 'delegated acts' (Articles 5 (4) and 12-15 of the proposal) without having to obtain approval by the European Council and the European Parliament for such amendments. In other words, the Commission is now determined to take over the task of developing payment functionalities. According to the proposal, the Commission does not foresee any involvement of market participants (users and suppliers) in the process of identifying these technical requirements.
The proposal fails to deliver a convincing rationale which would justify the granting of such extensive and unilateral powers to the Commission ahead of the three year review foreseen under Article 16. Any modification to the payment functionalities already requires a minimum of two years for processing and implementation by both the demand and supply sides, as part of a recognised change management cycle in the industry.
These powers would be completely unnecessary if the final list of technical requirements in the Annex meets the test set out in Recital (10) of the proposal that any such requirements "should not restrict flexibility and innovation but should be open to and neutral towards potential new developments and improvements in the payments market". If indeed, the technical requirements to be included in the Annex to the proposal are all flexible and future-proof, as this recital explicitly asks for, then the Commission does not require extensive powers to review and amend these requirements through delegated acts ahead of the three year review clause mentioned above. Accordingly, the Commission would not need delegated powers. It is simply not warranted or efficient that standards should be defined and evolved by law on an ongoing basis.
Moreover, it is the 's view that it is inappropriate for the Commission to take on the role of a de-facto scheme manager and standard setter1 responsible for the development of payment functionalities. This Regulation currently also disregards the basic principles of good governance and legal certainty: the technical requirements will impact the entire payment services user community on both the demand and supply sides.
The scope of the potential 'technical requirements', and consequently the scope of the delegation of powers to be conferred to the Commission, remains undefined. This lack of definition of the delegation of powers to the Commission as foreseen is not acceptable. The chosen terminology 'technical requirements' should furthermore be considered as misleading in light of the current content of the Annex to the proposal. The Annex not only includes references to message formats and identifier standards but it also includes 'rules' which should not be commonly labelled as purely 'technical requirements'.
With regard to the delegated powers to be conferred to the Commission, the proposal fails to meet the key criteria applicable to Regulation: (a) there is a lack of proportionality of the delegated powers with respect to the intended objective of the proposal which is to ensure migration to ; (b) the subsidiarity principle would suggest that self-regulation is better placed to achieve the stated objectives of Articles 5 (4) and 12 - 15, i.e. innovation in the payments market; (c) the proposal would incur additional costs and administrative burden on payment services users and payment service providers ( ). These would have to invest in the renewal of their payments applications to comply with standards and scheme rules defined by international standardisation organisations and European scheme management bodies and with 'technical requirements' set by the Commission. Such additional costs and administrative burden, however, would not be offset by any advantages.
Last but not least: Recital 22 of the proposal states that "The Commission should be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 290 of the Treaty in respect of the update of the technical requirements for credit transfers and direct debits".
Article 290 (1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union however, clarifies that a "legislative act may delegate to the Commission the power to adopt non-legislative acts of general application to supplement or amend certain non-essential elements of the legislative act". The points out that the requirements set out in the Annex to the proposal were referred to as 'essential' requirements in previous drafts of this proposal. The assumes that the term 'essential' formerly applied to describe these requirements was changed to 'technical' for the sole purpose of suggesting compliance of Articles 5 (4) and 12 - 15 of the proposal with the Treaty. The confirms that the requirements set out in the Annex to the proposal are essential to the functioning of a payment scheme. In the view of the , therefore, Article 5 (4) and 12 - 15 are not compatible with Article 290 of the Treaty.
The is therefore in favour of deleting Articles 5 (4) and 12 - 15 from the proposal.
The invites the legislator to recognise that self-regulation by banks has generally proven to be the most efficient means to create and maintain innovative, effective, secure and stress-resistant payment systems. It is the 's firm belief that innovation must not be hampered by the Commission's interference in the development process in the context of this regulation to the detriment of both the demand and supply sides.
The proposal should refrain from mandating 'interoperability' between payment schemes (Article 4 (2) of the proposal)
As requested by the political drivers of the vision, the , in close dialogue with the user community, developed and launched the Scheme and the Schemes. At the end of 2010, 4499 have formally adhered to and 3904 participate in the Scheme. Of those, 3374 also offer business to business services. Since November 2010, all in the euro area providing euro direct debit services domestically must be reachable for cross-border direct debits, as mandated by Regulation (EC) No 924/2009.
The Commission insists that on grounds of general public policy it would not be possible to mandate de jure migration to the single set of payment schemes developed by the . The proposal therefore implies a theoretical scenario of multiple 'Union-wide' payment schemes existing in parallel and mandates 'interoperability' of such schemes. The concept of multiple, 'interoperable' payment schemes, however, disregards that an optimally efficient payment environment would require that all of all payment services users adhere to the exact same scheme rules and standards (which does not prevent competition on payment products and services), so that a payment is executed by parties which adhere to the rules and standards of the same payment scheme. 'Interoperability' between multiple competing euro credit transfer and direct debit schemes, respectively, would require onerous agreement at an extremely high level of detail to allow fully automated processing of payments across multiple payment schemes. It would do little to overcome the fragmentation of the euro payments market.
In the view of the , reference to 'interoperability' of payment schemes should be deleted from the proposal.
Annex to the proposal: the technical requirements proposed in section 3 (c) and (d) should be deleted; section 3 (e) should be amended
Several of the technical requirements, applicable to direct debit transactions and proposed in section 3 of the Annex to the proposal, disregard the preferences of the vast majority of consumers in Member States using direct debits today. These requirements are oblivious to the consensus reached on the principles governing the Union-wide direct debit scheme currently in the market (the Scheme developed by the ).
Specifically, the technical requirements proposed in section 3 (c), (d) and (e) would, if endorsed by the legislator, make mandatory such features which are optional in the Scheme or which could be provided as an Additional Optional Service (AOS) by a community of payment service providers, or by an individual payment service provider, in response to actual market demand. This would make direct debits more costly for all and restrict competition among payment service providers. The technical requirements proposed in section 3 (c) and (d) of the annex should be deleted; section 3 (e) should be amended.
The proposed technical requirements applicable to euro direct debits disregard the consensus of the broad majority of payment services users on the principles governing the Scheme
The Schemes are based on a 'creditor-driven mandate flow' (the creditor is the biller). This means that the payer completes and signs a paper-based mandate and sends it directly to the biller2. The biller is responsible for storing the original mandate, together with any information regarding amendments relating to the mandate or its cancellation. In this scenario, the payer's bank does not receive any mandate-related information from its customer nor is the payer's bank responsible for checking the right of a biller to collect payment from a payer's account. The payer's bank receives the mandate-related information with the first collection. This model is used in a large number of Member States today - for example in Austria, Germany, the Netherlands and Spain. The latter four countries represent those Member States where direct debits are used much more often to make payments than in other countries. Out of 17,656 million direct debits processed in the euro area in 2008, according to the ECB Blue Book a total of 12,968 million direct debits or 73.45 percent were processed in Austria (841 million), Germany (8,424 million), the Netherlands (1,272 million) and Spain (2,431).
While the Schemes build on this national, pre- direct debit model implemented in a large number of Member States today (the creditor-driven mandate flow), it is recognised that some Member States use an alternate pre- direct debit model. This alternate model is based on a 'debtor-driven mandate flow' (the debtor is the payer - a consumer, for example). This means that the biller informs the payer's bank that the payer has requested to make payments by direct debit. The payer's bank then informs the payer and issues the actual mandate. In this model, the mandate stays with the payer's bank. When a biller presents a direct debit collection to the payer's bank, the payer's bank might choose to check the authorisation of the biller to collect payment based on the mandate. This model is used, for example, in Belgium, Portugal, Italy3 and France today. Out of the total 17,656 direct debits processed in the euro area in 2008, according to the ECB Blue Book a total of 4,322 million or 24.48 percent were processed in Belgium (260 million), Italy (576 million), Portugal (221 million) and France (3,265).
The main difference between these two alternate direct debit models is in the expectation of the consumer. A consumer used to the debtor-driven mandate flow assumes that his bank verifies whether he has authorised a direct debit collection prior to debiting his account. Those consumers who are used to the creditor-driven mandate flow, by contrast, do not require such verification. As mentioned above, the vast majority of consumers in the European Union who make a direct debit payment today rely on the creditor-driven mandate flow; which is the model governing the Scheme. In fact, the ratio of direct debits based on the creditor-driven mandate flow to those made on the debtor-driven mandate flow is 3:1.
The Scheme caters to the needs of all payment services users
To help in meeting the preferences of consumers living in countries currently using the debtor-driven mandate flow, the Scheme already includes various optional features which allow banks to offer services such as the verification of mandates by the payer's bank.
As each mandate is identifiable based on the 'Unique Mandate Reference' and the 'Creditor Identifier', each collection can be traced back - immediately and unmistakably - to the biller. As a result, any biller collecting SDDs can be rapidly and unequivocally identified. Any gains based on a fraudulent direct debit collection would therefore not be sustainable. For these reasons, it is highly improbable that fraudulent individuals or businesses would choose as a vehicle for fraudulent actions.
The Scheme goes beyond the requirements of the Payment Services Directive (PSD), by granting consumers a 'no-questions-asked' refund right during the eight weeks following the debiting of a consumer's account. This means that during this time any funds collected by will be credited back to the consumer's account upon request. In the event of unauthorised direct debit collections, the consumer's right to a refund extends to thirteen months as stipulated in the PSD.
Last but not least, banks must ensure that only trustworthy billers are able to collect payments via . This is also in the interest of payment service providers as they would have to cover any losses resulting from fraudulent and / or erroneous direct debits.
The risk of any fraudulent or erroneous collections is actually born by the biller's bank - never by the payer. The actual mitigation of these risks is based on the intervention of the payer's bank. The Commission and the European Central Bank confirmed that the Scheme is based "on proven national concepts, fully meets the respective legal requirements and - in some points - goes even further than required by the Payment Services Directive in order to better satisfy customer needs"4. Both institutions also encouraged the to give due consideration to the provision of additional features designed to further increase the trust in services in particular by consumers used to the 'debtor-driven mandate flow'. The Schemes, as outlined above, include these optional features.
Exclusion of high value payment systems from the scope of the Regulation
The scope of the Regulation as proposed in Article 1 (1) is too broad since such a description would also encompass euro payments made via high value systemically important payment systems such as the European Central Bank's TARGET2 and Euro Banking Association's EURO1. These payment systems should be excluded.
Subject to further review, the will comment on other key aspects of the proposal
The is in the process of evaluating the implications of this legislative initiative and will communicate the results of its detailed analysis shortly. Subject to further review, the will comment on other key aspects of the proposal and provide detailed suggestions for amendments to the proposal for consideration by the legislator.
Gerard Hartsink is the Chair of the .
Related links:
EPC Response to the Proposal for a Regulation establishing Technical Requirements for Credit Transfers and Direct Debits in Euros published on 16 December 2010
European Commission Proposal for a Regulation establishing Technical Requirements for Credit Transfers and Direct Debits in Euros
Related articles in this issue:
SEPA Scheme Change Management 2011 - Call to Stakeholders. Suggestions for changes to SCT and SDD must reach the EPC by end February 2011
The Good, the Bad, the Ugly and a Knight in Shining Armour? European Commission requests unprecedented powers to determine payment functionalities
Happy New Year? Post-crisis EU financial sector reform: the impact of 'Basel III' on payments
How to Migrate to SEPA. Experience in Belgium: what works and what is difficult?
Best of Class: the Netherlands. A case study in successful migration to SEPA
Related article in previous issue:
So What´s in a Name? Explaining Payment Schemes, Instruments and Systems. Clarity on payment terms is critical in the debate over the approach to setting end dates for migration to SEPA through EU Regulation ( Newsletter, Issue 8, October 2010)
1If endorsed by the legislator, the forthcoming Regulation would also impact the governance of, for example, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The and schemes developed by the are based on global standards such as ISO standards. The and Implementation Guidelines of the are MIG's (Message Implementation Guidelines) of ISO.
2The technical terms used in the Scheme Rulebooks refer to the payer as 'debtor' and to the biller as 'creditor'.
3In Portugal and Italy both models - the creditor-driven mandate flow and the debtor-driven mandate flow - coexist.
4Joint letter of the European Commission and the European Central Bank to the in March 2010.
Your reactions
If you would like to comment on this article, please identify yourself with your first and last name. Your name will appear next to your comment. Email addresses will not be published. Please note that by accessing or contributing to the discussion you agree to abide by the EPC website conditions of use.


text:
In February we introduced Andy Eccleshall's latest group of work in a showed titled 'Breathe'. We often ask our artists to talk about their inspiration and the back stories of paintings. I recently asked Andy Eccleshall to share his stories from his recent show 'Breathe', which we are sharing in a two part mini-series. If you haven't had a chance to see this show, we hope you can come in to view it. Most of Andy's paintings are quite large and make quite an impact when seen in person.
"Quiet Change" is closely based on an area south of Monroe Washington on Highway 202. This is the third or fourth time I have included this particular grouping of trees in a painting, I find them fascinating. It's hard to pinpoint exactly why I like that area so much, there's something mystical about it.
The title relates to the juxtaposition of the perfectly still and "silent" landscape with the brewing weather change in the background. The stationary elements slowly being eroded by the constantly changing environment. I've been visiting this area for years and while on first glance it never changes, I'm aware that in a quiet way it's changing constantly, little by little dissolving back into the water and earth while all the time thriving and teaming with life."
This title is both literal and metaphorical. The storm cloud passing to the left obviously shows that better days are indeed ahead but this painting is one in a series which refocus my artistic intent. After feeling somewhat lost for several months I began to rediscover my direction, a revisiting of the elements of landscape which excite me. "Better Days Ahead" is a celebration of that rediscovered pathway.
A moody late afternoon scene reminiscent of the Skagit Valley. The Skagit offers endless inspiration for sky paintings as the landscape is usually fairly minimal. This gives me the opportunity to squeeze the horizon line down to the bottom of the painting, making it all about the sky. In this case the horizon line runs through the middle of the painting which creates a pleasing balance between land and sky and a series of interesting pathways between the two.
One of favorite places to go as a family over the years has been the Washington Coast. From the mesmerizing beauty north coast of the peninsular, around to Kalaloch and down to the Long Beach Peninsular. This painting depicts a typical summer day around Grays Harbor County. The tide is in, filling the mud flats and leaving the golden grass exposed. The fog and low cloud on the coast is visible in the distance and hold the promise that, while it's 75 and sunny here, it's fleece weather on the beach!
Closely based on the landscape around my parents' home in Stafford, England. It always feels to me that in the English Midlands the sky is closer to you. This painting tries to capture the sense of closeness. "Drifting" simply relates to constant movement of weather across the landscape, sun and showers and wind in the wheat. This flat and rolling landscape is what I grew up in and the main focus of this painting was to faithfully capture the light of a breezy, showery day in mid June.
You can view Andy's collection of work here.


text:
|Some more flavours to try
In addition to kit testing by means of eating I have also been doing more training in full gear (except for the shoes as I wanted to see if my blisters the other day were caused by the larger race shoes or by the new socks). Luckily it has been warm enough that I can get away with wearing just my Nike Tempo 2 in 1 shorts and RailRiders Ecomesh top. Having now done 3 decent training runs in full gear I can give a better idea of how the kit is faring for me. I can report back that the Oakley Eye Jacket XLJ sunglasses now feel really comfortable and are not making any tender spots above my ears like they did the first time. My feet are also very comfortable in the Injinji toe socks and no further pilling has occurred since the first run. Since I am now running in the PT03 winter version shoes and they are the correct size, I can only assume my awful blisters after the first run were caused by wearing the PT03 desert shoes I will be using in the MDS that are one size larger. I will try to wear the desert shoes some more times so that my feet get used to them, but running around town in long gaiters still feels a bit strange. The shorts and top feel very comfortable, and the rucksack fits well. All in all I am now very happy with my kit choice.
My run yesterday was 22km (5km with Anny where she set herself a new PB and then 17km by myself). I ran up and down the Uetliberg a couple of times, but not all the way to the top, and the total elevation gain over the 22km was 597 metres.
That run was followed today by a 21km run towards Forch, with 327 metres of elevation gain. Both times I was carrying my rucksack with all the food and gear in it, plus 1.5 litres of water. I tried not to drink the water I was carrying and instead to drink from the water fountains so that I can get used to the extra weight. Don't forget that I don't yet have the energy gels in my pack and they will weigh 20 times 33g so 660g or so. The average weight of water I will be carrying in the MDS will be 0.75kg, since we will be given 1.5 litres at each checkpoint and I will try to drink it evenly between the checkpoints so that it is finished by the time I reach the next checkpoint. That means that I was carrying enough extra water today throughout the run to compensate for the weight of the energy gels that I will put in my pack.
In terms of energy gels I have decided to go with a mixture of Gu and Gu Roctane Gels. Gu Roctane is a lot more expensive but contains extra ingredients such as caffeine and food stuffs that aid recovery. Gu suggest that you mix the two and that is also a cheaper option than consuming Gu Roctane gels alone. They will be arriving in the post next week and I have ordered plenty of spares to play around with in training. They contain 100 calories each and weigh 33g so are quite energy dense. That will be an extra 2,000 calories or so, making around 17,000 in total now.
I plan to do another run of 21km tomorrow wearing full kit. I will try wearing the desert shoes again and maybe put on an extra pair of socks to reduce the amount my foot slides around. But now folks I am off to go and try more of the freeze dried meals - yum yum. Enjoy the rest of your weekends.


text:
To access this area we need you to login using the username and password provided to you by the school. Please enter this information below and click login to proceed.
If you have forgotten your username and/or password please contact the school.
Update RequiredTo play the media you will need to either update your browser to a recent version or update your Flash plugin


text:
We often spend too much energy condemning our enemies and not enough time appreciating our friends. As Thanksgiving approaches and families gather to appreciate their loved ones, I'd like to recognize the contributions of those who have gone above and beyond to further the cause of play.
Of particular note are the six Park-A-Day Summer Challengers who committed to visiting a new local park every day with their children this past summer. Bethany Ingraham, Liza Sulllivan, Marily Smith, Shelley Schumaker Callico, Sherry Frick, and Tracey Quinn inspired parents across the country to incorporate more play into their children's summers by sharing their experiences online. Marily personally received a certificate of completion from Mayor Scott Smith of Mesa, Ariz. (a Playful City USA community); Tracey was featured in the St. Petersburg Times; and Liza published a letter in the Chicago Tribune about the importance of play.
This year alone, over 42,000 volunteers hauled mulch, mixed concrete, and assembled playground components, dedicating their sweat equity to build great playspaces in communities that otherwise couldn't afford them. I particularly admire those who have continued to make play a priority in their communities. Imanni Wilkes is one shining example, who organized and led the first Volunteer Alumni Meet-Up in the Philadelphia area and brought many people together to talk about the importance of play in children's lives.
After Principal Wanda Quon partnered with KaBOOM! to build a playground at Pecan Park Elementary, she went on to expand it into a comprehensive Wellness Area, which includes a quarter-mile walking track and cardiovascular stations. She also won a grant to provide free fruits and vegetables to students throughout the school day. Her extraordinary efforts caught the eye of First Lady Michelle Obama, who toured the school in March as she worked to spread the word about her "Let's Move" campaign.
Then there are those who have taken the initiative to build their own playgrounds in areas of need using the DIY playground planning tools on kaboom.org. In partnership with the local community, Angela Wendel and Nicole Allfrey built a playground at the Good Hope Orphanage and School in Ngusero Sombetini, a rural Tanzanian village. The community had no public parks or playgrounds. In addition to a swing set and jungle gym, the project included an electricity producing merry-go-round, built with local materials, which provides a means for the children to work on homework after hours.
In Port Williams, Nova Scotia, Lia Glover was loading her children into the van to drive to another town to play when it hit her: "We should have our own playground!" She invited interested residents to her house to talk about creating a playspace for all community members to enjoy. During one of their first fundraisers, more than 100 people packed the local pub to raise $20,000 in a matter of hours. Community members worked side by side to build the playground, and now the whole town has a centrally located outdoor gathering space for all to enjoy.
It's not just individuals who are taking initiative. This year, KaBOOM! honored 118 Playful City USA communities who are committed to taking action for play. Communities that were honored last year have been busy fulfilling their commitment through innovative, cost-effective programs. Here's just a sampling:
It warms my heart to see government officials at both local and federal levels making play a priority. Fifteen years ago, we marked Make A Difference Day (held annually on October 23rd) with our very first community built playground; this year, as we commenced our 1894th build, we were joined by the Honorable Arne Duncan, Shaun Donovan, Ray LaHood, and Tom Vilsack, as well as the CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service, Patrick Corvington.
The private sector is also stepping up to the plate, even during trying economic times. Increasingly, major for-profit companies are recognizing the importance of corporate social responsibility, using their influence, revenue, and employee manpower to rally around social causes. I would like to give special thanks to our National Partners, Kraft Foods Foundation, MetLife Foundation, and Dr Pepper Snapple Group, who are not only stepping up to provide playgrounds to communities in need, but who are also supporting our efforts to drive mass offline action through our innovative online tools.
Among the many companies and foundations who have committed resources to the cause of play, I am also particularly grateful for the support of Foresters, The Home Depot Foundation, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, Amgen, UnitedHealthcare, Kool-Aid, and Disney, as well as philanthropic support from the Knight Foundation, W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Kresge Foundation, and Omidyar Network. We could not do what we do without them.
Back in the summer of 1995, shortly after moving to Washington, D.C., I read a story in the Washington Post about two local children who suffocated while playing in an abandoned car because they didn't have anywhere else to play. That story planted the seed from which KaBOOM! sprouted. As we approach our 15th anniversary, we also approach our 2,000th playground build, while continuing to facilitate the construction of thousands of other community-built playgrounds through our online tools.
Our mission is turning into a movement. When it started, KaBOOM! was two people toiling at the back table of a local deli. Now the fight to save play is a national network of parents, teachers, neighborhoods, schools, nonprofits, government departments, and corporations. I could go on and on – we at KaBOOM! have so much to be thankful for! Your unflagging spirit and support continue to humble us. We remain committed to our vision of a place of play within walking distance of every child, and we could never achieve it without you.


text:
TSE K9 Camera Adapter Panel
Quickly and easily attach/detach the back mounted TSE Recon Camera unit to your Frog Dog MKT Vest with the K9 Camera Adapter Panel. Compatible with TSE-K9-KIT WP and TSE-K9-KIT-2W.
Price: $45.95 (Multicam $55.95)
Color Options: Black, Coyote, Multicam, High-vis Orange
(compatible with the Frog Dog MKT Vest v3.0 and Frog Dog MKT Vest LT)
- Specs
- Intel
Related Products
Frog Dog MKT vest v3.0
Engineered on feedback received directly from military, SAR and LEO K-9 handlers, the FROG DOG MKT Vest v3.0 is a modular, loadbearing canine tactical vest that offers a variety of configuration options which can be customised to suit constantly changing mission profiles. The MKT Vest features a proprietary, adjustable padded chest strap design that is built for ergonomic weight distribution and for maximum comfort and unrestricted mobility. Constructed using heavy duty, MIL-SPEC hardware and materials, the MKT vest is built to withstand the combat environment and is suitable for rappelling, hoisting, and fast roping.
NATO CAGE Code: NCAGE-L0EE5
Price: $675 (Multicam $685)
Color Options: Black, Coyote, Multicam, High Vis Orange
Cut and sewn in Canada
Rear-End Security Strap (RESS)
The RESS is attached via the 3 female, quick detach buckles located at the rear of the Frog Dog MKT vest and is designed to provide additional backend support while rappelling or hoisting your canine.
Price: $25.49 (Multicam: $32.49)
Color Options: Black, Coyote, Multicam, High-vis Orange
(compatible with Frog Dog MKT Vest v3.0 and Frog Dog MKT Vest LT)
MOLLE Panel
Fully utilize the topside realestate of your Frog Dog MKT Vest with the MOLLE Panel addon which features 7 rows x 4 columns PALS webbing which provides the user with a nearly endless ability to organize and configure gear loadouts to support constantly changing mission profiles through easy attachment of MOLLE-compatible pouches and gear.
Rapidly change your loadout by utilizing multiple MOLLE Panels and simply swap each one out as needed.
To the lower rear of the MOLLE Panel is a HPE Backed GoPro webbing loop which is designed to accommodate the GoPro K9 Camera baseplate adapter (sold separately).
Price: $45.98 (Multicam $52.98)
Color Options: Black, Coyote, Multicam, High Vis Orange
(compatible with Frog Dog MKT Vest v3.0 and Frog Dog MKT Vest LT)
Elwood Rappel Bridle
The Elwood Rappel Bridle (ERB) is a device that is used to attach the MKT Vest to a Rappel Harness. Unlike other K-9 bridles which typically have a fixed leg length, the ERB bridle is designed with adjustable legs to accommodate a variety of dog weights and sizes. The ERB uses two Kong Tango Carabiners, a lightweight aluminum, double-action connector with a unique locking device that requires deliberate single-hand grip to open and designed with an auto-lock gate that automatically locks for security.
(Estimated production lead time: 4-6 weeks)
Price: $465.95
(compatible with the Frog Dog MKT Vest v3.0 and Frog Dog MKT Vest LT)
made in the USA
GoPro Camera Adapter Plate
The GoPro camera adapter plate is designed to easily attach to our MOLLE accessory panel without the need for any tools.
By adding the functionality of the GoPro Hero 3 Black (sold separately), canine handlers are now able to record video in High Definition (720p-1080i) for use as court documentation or as training aid.
By utilizing the GoPro Hero Black's on-board Wi-Fi capability the handler is able to connect the camera to a smart phone or tablet without the need for cell service or Wi-Fi hotspots allowing the handler not only remotely operate the camera functions but to also be able to send the dog into any area and see what the dog sees in real-time, through High Definition, FPV video feedback giving the handler some of the benefits of the larger K9 Camera Systems at a fraction of the cost.
$54.53 usd
Shoulder Carry Straps
Attach these stowable suspension straps to your K9 for times that call for a hands free carry option such as while overcoming high obstacles such as ladders and walls. The shoulder straps are adjustable and feature a quick disconnect design which allows you to quickly and safely unclip the K9 as the situation requires. Use both straps together to attach the K9 to your back, or a single strap cinched for a one-handed carry option or, fully extend it for side shoulder carry. Optional shoulder pads also available.
Price: $36.95 (Multicam $41.95)
Color Options: Black, Coyote, Multicam, High-Vis Orange
(compatible with Frog Dog MKT Vest v3.0 and Frog Dog MKT Vest LT)


text:
Let me start out by saying that I am fully aware of the extreme popularity of AMC's new show THE WALKING DEAD. However, popular does not make it good. I will also say right up front here that I consider myself a huge zombie film fan. How did that happen? Well, it was probably seeing NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD in a theater by myself when I was only 9. It was on a double bill with THE LEGEND OF BOGGY CREEK. I was traumatized and thrilled, all at the same time. Ever since, zombies, when done well, have scared the living crap out of me. And no one does zombies better than NIGHT director George Romero. But that doesn't mean they can't be done well by another. That's why I had such high hopes for the Frank Darabont/Gale Anne Hurd-produced series THE WALKING DEAD.
About five years ago, a producer I was working with (not a particularly honorable fellow, but a lover of horror films) handed me the first two graphic novels in THE WALKING DEAD series. He knew I loved zombie films and he thought these graphic novels would make a great series. I read them and felt, ultimately, that the characters were too thin and the plot too, well, tired and simple to be of much interest to me. I found the idea of a zombie series exciting, but if we were going to do something like that, I couldn't see starting out with such lightweight material. Not that it wasn't entertaining on a certain level, it was, but it was never truly engaging. And it certainly wasn't thought-provoking. And contrary to studio belief, a story needs to be both if it is to be successful on more than just a monetary level. And while I do love me some money, it is almost never my main motivator.
So I passed on pursuing that particular avenue. When I heard it was finally being made into a series and that Darabont was attached, I had seriously hoped that he would bring something special to it; elevate it beyond its graphic novel roots. But four episodes in, I have to say, while mildly entertained, I'm more disappointed than anything else. There was a time when this might have been hailed as "ground-breaking" TV, maybe even daring. But the bar has been raised so high by cable shows like THE WIRE and DEADWOOOD, THE SOPRANOS and AMC's own MAD MEN that, by comparison, THE WALKING DEAD is almost rubbish.
"But it's just a zombie show! It's not supposed to be MAD MEN!" Wrong attitude. Was THE WIRE just another cop procedural? Was DEADWOOD just another western? THE SOPRANOS just another mob flick? No. So THE WALKING DEAD had a chance to be more than just another zombie film (or series, as the case may be). But it's not. The writing is average, nothing memorable or revealing, nothing elevated beyond the depths of a CSI or COLD CASE episode. Not that those are terrible, mind you, they're certainly entertaining, but they don't strive to be anything more. Even George Romero, over 40 years ago, recognized that his subject matter was ripe material for social commentary. And just as importantly, he knew how to make his zombies scary, and that's another area where THE WALKING DEAD fails miserably.
One of the things that always made Romero's zombies so vastly unsettling and downright terrifying, was that we recognized them. If not on an individual basis, then as types. They were our neighbors, our teachers, our friends, our children, ourselves. Any random image of a zombie in a Romero film would strike a chord, reach inside and mess with some part of our collective psyches. The zombies in THE WALKING DEAD are defined by "this one has a hanging jaw, this one isn't wearing a shirt, this one is crawling, this one is limping." They are "effects" not characters; mere background, not players. The filmmakers here have failed to allow the zombies to be us. Even when our hero takes a moment to identify and honor the body of a walking dead member of society whose guts he's about to smear all over himself, it's an intellectual exercise, not an emotional or visceral one. We never see the face of this once-person. He represents nothing to us, the viewer. There's only one moment so far in the entire series when a zombie is actually disturbing and scary, and that's in the first episode when one character must face the fact that his wife, now turned zombie, is wandering around outside the house with some vague memory, some basic instinct, to return to the house where she had once stayed. But in THE WALKING DEAD, she's one zombie in a thousand. The rest are extras in makeup, nothing more.
Ironically, while it's the zombies that should be societal archetypes in THE WALKING DEAD, it's our main characters that are written as such instead. The Hick. The Cop. The Wife. The Best Friend. The Old Man. The Racist. The Smart Kid. The Son. The Crazy Guy. Tired melodramatic scenarios borrowed from too many other series are used here with little originality or invention. Secondary characters given special attention during an episode's opening teaser, will most certainly meet a gruesome demise by that same episode's close. The plots are predictable, used. They lack inspiration. The action is borrowed and rehashed from other zombie genre entries, with the characters never for a moment attaining three dimensions. Even the teaser from the very first episode was lacking in surprise or meaning; it was an unnecessary moment that seemed to have more to do with trying to "shock" the audience instead of engage it. It was poorly executed, devoid of character, sorely out of place in the chronology of the storytelling and, sadly, set the tone for the rest of the episodes to come. It felt as if the filmmakers didn't trust their own audience right out of the gate.
It's unfortunate. I had sworn off watching new shows before they were complete and available on Blu-ray. I'm not a fan of the wait between episodes or, even worse, between seasons, a gap that has grown so wide I find it takes me half a season just to remember the previous! But THE WALKING DEAD lured me out of my self-induced exile from currently-running series. It will also, unfortunately, send me back.
I will watch the remaining episodes of the first season out of some vague hope that it might get better, and out of some misguided allegiance to the genre. I suppose that makes me a zombie of sorts myself. But now that the show has been picked up for a second season, it's gonna take a lot more than good word of mouth to lure me back in. I'm looking, hoping, to find something to hang on to here. But so far, I'm just coming up empty.


text:
A spot of Last minute shopping??
check out Talented Jewellery Designer Rachel Leighton and her Magical Christmas Collection.
Featuring hand carved Christmas characters made with sterling silver, Rachel's designs offer that special unique gift .
I love her little Christmas snowman pendant...think I'll be adding that to my wish list!
For more inspiring designs from Rachel, take a peek at her website
Merry Christmas!!
Friday, 20 December 2013
Thursday, 19 December 2013
Tuesday, 17 December 2013
Thursday, 12 December 2013
Christmas 2013 - Paperchase
This year you can find everything you need for Christmas under one roof at Paperchase. Here is a wonderful selection of stationery, gift wrap and gifts we love!
Wednesday, 11 December 2013
Tuesday, 10 December 2013
Monday, 9 December 2013
Friday, 6 December 2013
Thursday, 5 December 2013
Tuesday, 3 December 2013
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)