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by Whitney Strotz
If it is great, businesses want it. At least that is true for quality office space in southern and central Marin.
Throughout the area, quality office space continues to be in high demand. Three different office suites in Marin County experienced bidding wars — competitive offers for the same space — this past quarter. It has been important for companies to have advisers who understand this dynamic market to provide the information and support needed to react in this marketplace.
Rental rates continue to be at the higher end of historical North Bay averages but are below the average rates in San Francisco and well below the highest Peninsula levels. Rates in premium south-central Marin office projects are about $4.50–low $6 a square foot per month on a full-service basis, compared with the low $6 San Francisco average.
The local market has experienced several years of sustained pressure on commercial real estate, with no new inventory. As a result, rents in many buildings are rising faster than the historical 3 percent annual escalation.
Cushman & Wakefield research tracked the average transaction rate at a prominent central Marin office park over the past few years to demonstrate actual rent increases. Average year-over-year rent growth there was 8.29 percent. Compare this with San Francisco's 9.91 percent average.
However, this trend has not translated to all buildings in the market. The average class A to class B rent gap has increased by nearly 61 percent over the past year. Class B buildings have seen the average asking rate decline, to $3.66 from $3.72 in central Marin.
As competition for talent and quality-of-life elements continue to be important factors in the site-selection process for many companies, premium office buildings remain in demand. These trends are forcing class B buildings to lower rents to attract tenants. We expect these trends to continue over the medium term.
Business and property owners have been asking whether we in a pricing bubble. Certainly, real estate has up and down cycles. Without knowing when this phase of the cycle will end, most experts agree we are not in the early stages.
However, increased costs to run buildings at current standards may keep pricing higher. Much of the recent construction regulations such as on electrical energy efficiency, heating and cooling systems, and Americans With Disabilities Act accessibility have increased the costs involved in delivering office space. The generational shifts of the workforce have brought additional requirements of our office buildings, like electric car-charging, bike storage, showers and quality outdoor space.
Those shifts and our region's world-class status as one of the top locations to live and work create pressures that may limit how pricing will move when the economy eventually softens. We just don't see any immediate signs of that softening.
Whitney Strotz (email@example.com) is an executive managing director and managing principal in Cushman & Wakefield's Larkspur office.


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Many sprinkler system owners at some point in their past have said, "I'm tired of lugging around this water hose." So, I'll agree that watering the yard and replacing hand watering is certainly up there at the top. But, if the system is designed without considering even (uniform) distribution, you will always have to water for the area that gets the least water–which means you will be overwatering the rest.
The picture above is a "densogram" of a system we are designing. We're not through yet and this graphic shows why. Do you see the light parts? They're not getting enough water relative to the surrounding areas. That normally means a head needs to be added.
The dark blue areas represent spray heads and they "precipitate" at a higher rate. Since they will be on their own zone, we can make the spray zones equal the rotor zones (those showing a lighter color) by running them for less time on the controller.
And that's the reason you NEVER mix spray and rotors on the same zone.
If you are having trouble with over- or under-watering part of your yard, it could be a design problem. That is a problem that existed before the system was ever installed!
Rainstat has solved many nasty problems like this in the past and we would be glad to help you out.
Please call 254.829.3800 if we can help. As usual, we will give you a guaranteed price up front–"before the meter starts running."

subset: commoncrawl


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So happy that I made you guys so happy with my Alo yoga gear giveaway! If you haven't entered yet, now is the time: I'll be announcing my winner on Wednesday of this upcoming week.
So I think you can probably guess why I decided to make carrot cake pancakes the other day. Part of it was the wholehearted response to my carrot cake cupcakes with cream cheese frosting:
And part of it was this:
The several metric tons of frozen juice pulp that dearest Valerie—who is becoming famous for her diligent juicing habits—gave me last Friday. I've been hard at work to use it all up. Check out raw sandwich action yesterday—that's bread a la Valerie:
And the carrot pulp, which Valerie kindly separated, is going fast, in all sorts of carrot themed things. A few mornings ago, I thought, why not pancakes?
Why not pancakes indeed. Now, I'll warm you: these are very healthy tasting pancakes. That is, they're not going to necessarily please a crowd of more mainstream eaters with mainstream tastes—for that, I'll direct you to my classic blueberry pancakes, or my chocolate chip pancakes. But these—which have a thick texture and only a very mild amount of sweetness—will be just right for my healthy food lovers out there. Orange hued and bursting with plump raisins, these guys will be a treat with some cashew butter and maple syrup, or a dollop of my raw, vegan cream cheese frosting:
or you can serve them plain, with fruit:
Either way, they are delightfully healthy and filling.
As with all of my baked goods, I'm including a gluten-free option in the instructions, below!
Carrot Cake Pancakes (vegan, can be made GF, soy free)
Makes about 4-6 pancakes
3/4 cup whole wheat pastry flour (to make these GF, try sweet white sorghum flour, GF flour mix, or brown rice flour)
1/2 cup oat flour
1 cup almond milk
1 tbsp coconut oil
1 tbsp agave syrup or maple syrup
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp ginger
2 tsps baking powder
1.5 tbsp flax meal
1 cup carrot juice pulp OR grated carrot, squeezed thoroughly with paper towel or through cheesecloth to remove excess moisture
1/2 cup raisins
1) Put a greased skillet on low heat while you prep the pancakes.
2) Mix flours, baking soda, flax meal, cinnamon, and ginger in a large mixing bowl.
3) Whisk together the coconut oil, agave, and almond milk.
4) Add liquid ingredients to dry, and then mix in the carrot pulp or grated carrot and the raisins.
5) Drop the mixture by 1/4 cup scoops onto your skillet. Flip when bubbles are appearing on top and the pancake is firm. Finish cooking the other side, and serve hot!
Along with freshly cut, farmer's market gala apples? Talk about starting the day off right. Cramming for finals isn't nearly as bad when there's good food nearby.
If you're home tomorrow morning and searching for new breakfast ideas, give these a shot! Your home will smell of winter spices, and your body will thank you for sneaking some fresh veggies into your morning meal.
Till soon,


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Okay. So maybe we are a tiny bit biased. But we at Advantage Heating and Air are hard-pressed to think of anyone in Columbus who couldn't profit from a
WaterFurnace geothermal heating and cooling system.
WaterFurnace geothermal systems are among the most dynamic, energy-saving, and eco-friendly heat pumps Columbus residents - or anyone - can buy.
With a WaterFurnace geothermal system from Advantage Heating and Air, you'll see...
No wonder more and more people in Columbus are switching to Advantage Heating and Air. The benefits of WaterFurnace geothermal heating and cooling systems are unbeatable!
Advantage Heating and Air has provided Columbus geothermal heating and cooling solutions for many years. We proudly offer Columbus WaterFurnace geothermal systems and stand behind our quality work and products. Call us at Advantage Heating and Air today. We are ready to bring you into the WaterFurnace Columbus geothermal family.


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Company Overview
Kee Safety is a leading global supplier of fall protection systems, guardrails and working at height safety equipment. Established in the UK in 1934, the range has expanded from our original KEE KLAMP products into a portfolio of safety equipment, all designed to separate people from hazards.
Kee Safety has offices in Canada, China, France, Germany, Ireland, Poland, Singapore, UAE & USA. Our products are also available through distributors and partners in a further 50 countries. The Singapore office was opened in February 2014 and it serves the Asia Pacific Region.
Kee Safety strives to provide the highest level of safety solutions. Our products are used to protect people in many applications and countries around the globe. We serve every size customer and client, and provide solutions for every project. From code compliant rooftop safety products such as roof edge protection and horizontal life line system or safety handrails and compliant guardrails. No handrail project is too big, or safety railing too small for Kee Safety.
A Global Safety Portfolio
KEE KLAMP cast iron fittings and KEE LITE lightweight aluminium fittings offer an extensive range of components which can be used to develop bespoke safety railing, handrail and guardrail solutions. KEE ACCESS components are used for handrails to comply with the requirements disability access legislation.
As experts in roof top safety, we offer an extensive portfolio of roof top safety solutions. Our Fall Protection range includes KEEGUARD a free standing roof fall protection system, KEE DOME a skylight fall protection system and KEE ANCHOR a personal fall prevention system. Additionally, there is a free standing demarcation system KEE MARK, which is ideal for temporary situations.
Kee Safety supplies a variety of safe access solutions designed to allow people to work safely, whether on a roof, on a raised platform or within a production environment: self-closing industrial safety gates, bespoke access platforms, platforms for working at heigjht and fragile roof access equipment. We can offer a bespoke access platform design service for both mobile and static platforms made from components and tube (both galvanised steel and aluminium options).
Kee Safety also offers the versatile steelwork fixings solutions widely used in curtain walling and other secondary steelwork applications. BEAMCLAMP steel to steel connection products secure new steelwork, grating and floor plate into position; BOXBOLT an approved blind cavity fixing is used in structural steelwork where access is restricted to one side only.
A Constantly Developing Safety Product Range
The KEEGUARD Roof Fall Protection System is a world leader in its field, providing a reliable permanent fall protection system that does not penetrate the roof membrane. A tested and proven counterbalance system, this modular roof guardrail system meets or exceeds prescribed fall prevention safety standards including OSHA and EU Directives.
Specifically developed for skylight fall protection, KEE DOME is a free standing guardrail system which does not penetrate the roof membrane. Supported by recycled PVC weights, this product provides an easily constructed skylight barrier which can remain as a permanent fixture or be easily dismantled and moved elsewhere.
The KEELINE horizontal life line system is designed for mounting onto a range of different roof types and also building structures and KEE WALK is a roof top walkway system designed to meet the test requirements of EN 516.
The KEE ANCHOR dead weight man anchor system is designed for use where collective protection is not a viable option. A modular system, KEE ANCHOR has been designed to provide a safe working environment where either fall arrest or fall restraint is required. The basis of our system is the WEIGHTANKA dead weight product which is suitable for use on a number of roof surfaces. Additionally this can be used to link a horizontal safety line between numbers of base systems to which a worker can attach for safe access along a roof; this being known as our WIREANKA system. The dead weight also forms the platform from which ACCESSANKA can be attached which offers a safe portable product for rope access workers to abseil down buildings. The KEE ANCHOR product family offers a cost effective solution to working at height.
Completing our Fall Protection portfolio is a range of safety eyebolts KEE IBOLT.


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Thanksgiving this year was a surprise.
For weeks, I looked forward to it as being a homecoming of sorts. It was the first Thanksgiving that my mom and I have had on our own since 2012, when we ate at Candle 79. We did the same this year, and I think a part of me expected the whole ritual to be as if nothing had changed. I thought it might momentarily feel the way things did before the end of my post-bacc, before coming back to New York, before me and Steven, and before some grievous losses in my mom's life.
It didn't, of course, and in spite of how badly I wanted to reclaim time this week, memories kept catching up to me. I spent the day or two before the holiday feeling broken open and weepy, rather than excited for time off or eager to celebrate. I'd had it in my mind that this Thanksgiving would somehow offset last year's Thanksgiving, which was difficult for a lot of reasons.
That isn't how it went, of course. My mom and I were together, as much of a team as ever, eating at the very same table we ate at for Thanksgiving 2012 (and with the same wonderful food). But we couldn't help feeling certain absences: the loss of my grandmother and my mom's partner, the dissolution of my relationship (which had become a part of both of our lives), and many other changes we've experienced separately and together in the last five years. It wasn't a homecoming so much as a regrouping.
As it turned out, the weekend was full of other surprises, curveballs and unexpected bits and pieces that threw me for a loop. It wasn't the peaceful holiday weekend I'd been counting on, but rather a disruptive couple of days that invited me to take stock of what's important.
As I was reflecting on this yesterday, I kept coming back to a quote from Pema Chodron's When Things Fall Apart:
We think that the point is to pass the test or overcome the problem, but the truth is that things don't really get solved. They come together and they fall apart. Then they come together again and fall apart again. It's just like that. The healing comes from letting there be room for all of this to happen: room for grief, for relief, for misery, for joy.
I've read these words so many times. Each time they're a reminder that things will never cohere perfectly or permanently. Everything is always changing, but there can be peace and beauty in experiencing that motion.
When you've passed through a difficult period, it can be tempting to yearn for a delivery of good fortune, or for experience that feels redemptive somehow. You want suffering to have purpose, for pain to be justified by wisdom or abundance or growth. I'm a little embarrassed to say it out loud, but I've been wanting all of these things, badly, and I guess that I'd envisioned this holiday season as being a touchstone of sorts—a benchmark of how far I'd come from last year.
That's not the point. And that's not what the holiday was. Instead, it was an invitation for me to feel grateful for all of the things that have endured while so much else changes.
As I sit here this morning, I'm thinking about my bond with my mom, which shifts and expands and grows along with us. I'm thinking about my chosen family, many of whom I spoke to in the last few days. I'm thinking about being rooted in a place I love, and little festive traditions here in the city that I revisit happily each year. I'm looking back on my quiet evening walk yesterday along unusually empty downtown streets, so peaceful. I'm thinking about food, how much I savor and look forward to the rhythms of sitting down to eat each day.
I experience these things differently from year to year, as my life evolves. But I experience their sameness, too, and the constancy often feels like a thing of beauty. The holiday weekend wasn't a celebration of things being "back to normal," because there's no normal, and time flows forward. But somehow it did end up feeling like a celebration of both permanence and impermanence, and the spaces in between.
If you observed the holiday this week, I hope that you found something meaningful to celebrate. If you didn't, I hope you had a restful couple days. Enjoy the articles and the recipe links this week!
Looking for an alternative to oatmeal as usual? I'm loving Erin's sweet potato einkorn porridge. It's a genius way to use up leftover mashed sweet potatoes and to sweeten up breakfast nutritiously. (And it's something I can make with the einkorn and kamut berries I've had in my pantry for too long.)
If oats are calling to you, Meredith's savory mushroom oats would be a tasty choice for any meal or time of day.
What a beautiful, festive salad for the holiday season! Emily combines roasted delicata, fingerling potatoes, kale, and pomegranate seeds with a champagne vinaigrette in this colorful mixture.
Looking for the ultimate roasted fall veggie platter for holiday gatherings? Sue's easy rainbow roasted veggies combine every color and texture in service of a dish that's as simple as it is lovely.
Finally, I can't get over how pretty and festive Jackie's persimmon creme brûlée is. I've never even thought to attempt creme brûlée in vegan form—it seems like such a challenge—but she makes it look easy.
1. A fascinating, lyrical consideration of the value of sleep. This article isn't about medicalized sleep therapies; on the contrary, it considers sleep as a human experience that transcends pure biology:
Medicalisation obscures sleep's true nature – its breadth and depth and joy. It conceals the personal, transcendent and romantic dimensions of sleep. We are in dire need of restoring our sense of sleep's mythic dimensions – of reimagining our personal experience of sleep. I believe this can be best accomplished through poetry, spirituality and, ultimately, personal investigation.
I'm a relatively minimal sleeper, and the article gave me a lot to think about.
2. A really interesting take on how the shift from reading out loud—once a cultural and intra-familial norm—to reading in private changed Westerners' interior lives.
3. I found this portrait of one couple's unusual approach to death and dying so touching.
4. Kathryn Schulz considers how and why human beings conjure up the fantastic and mythical beasts we do, and what makes these creatures believable.
5. I didn't grow up in a home where a lot of dinner parties or entertaining happened—my mother didn't really have the time, and if she had the inclination, I never knew about it, plus there was the issue of space in our little NYC apartment—but I've always loved the idea of them, if only because the reality always felt a little exotic. I enjoyed reading all of the articles in The New York Times' tribute to the dinner party.
And on that note, I'm wishing you all a good Sunday night. I'm back tomorrow with news of a fun new baking collaboration that has given me so much pleasure this fall, and I can't wait to share it with you!


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Program Description
Core Curriculum
During the first three semester of your BSc you will take core modules which will give you a great foundation for your business degree and introduce you to a variety of topics. You will have the choice to take the core modules either completely in English or German through our "English core track" or "German core track".
During your second semester you will then decide what subject you would like to specialise in. You will have the choice between seven specialisations: Auditing and Consulting, Banking and Finance, Digital Business, General Management, International Management, Management, Philosophy & Economics, Marketing. Your specialisation modules will start in the 3rd Semester and go through the whole 4th semester. All specialisation modules are taught exclusively in English.
Semester Abroad
All BSc students at Frankfurt School spend at least one semester abroad which includes an internship.
Advanced Study Phase
During these two semesters, you can choose modules from a broad range of topics to suit your interests. We offer approximately 45 modules in the areas of Finance and Banking, Managing Organisations, Economics, and Business and Society. Some specialisations also have advanced specialisation modules in semesters 6 and 7.
As the final part of your studies you will write the Bachelor Thesis, usually during your last semester.
About the School
Frankfurt School of Finance & Management is an AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA accredited, research-led business school, covering every aspect of business, management, banking and finance.


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They're mostly red meat for the talk-radio crowd
What seemed a routine Supreme Court decision affirming the land-condemnation powers used by cities for 50 years and rooted deeply in the Fifth Amendment has ignited a national firestorm.
Few object to the justly compensated "taking" of private property for roads, schools and other direct public purposes. What bothers people is the use of eminent domain to benefit private development and the public tax base. But while that sounds alarming at first hearing, it's much ado about not very much. Mostly the case has provided an opening for right-wing property-rights groups to sow fears about big, bad government. "Your home could be next!" is a popular warning. Left-wing activists, too, have joined the chorus, vilifying cities as co-conspirators with wealthy developers to gentrify urban America.
Truth is, the court's decision in Kelo vs. New London, issued last June, changed federal law not one iota. What has changed is the fearful hype on both extremes. Already the U.S. House of Representatives has passed a bill to dissuade local governments from using eminent domain powers if developers benefit. Texas, Alabama and Delaware have passed new restrictive laws; 30 other states, including Minnesota, are eager to follow.
But everyone should take a deep breath and consider the consequences. Yes, some abuses have occurred, but there is no epidemic of abuse. Eminent domain is used sparingly in most states, including Minnesota. Its real value lies not in its execution but in its leverage. Just having the authority to condemn blighted land has been enough to help hundreds of cities reclaim abandoned industrial waterfronts, derelict warehouses and substandard residences for the greater good.
Those in Minnesota eager to impose new restrictions must explain why it's not in the state's best interest to have redevelopment projects like St. Louis Park's $150 million Excelsior & Grand. "We didn't condemn property, but everyone knew we had the big stick," said former Mayor Gail Dorfman, now a Hennepin County commissioner.
Opponents must explain why similar projects in Anoka and Chaska shouldn't happen. Anoka is condemning six properties to move ahead with a $90 million conversion of an old industrial area near a future commuter rail station. Chaska is using eminent domain to replace six derelict, flood-prone houses with 51 condos as part of downtown revitalization. Officials say neither project could go ahead without eminent domain. Private developers will profit in both cases, but so will most citizens. Is it responsible to let one justly compensated holdout prevent a wider public benefit? That's the main question.
Since 1998, only 5 percent of Minnesota cities have condemned property for redevelopment purposes, according to a recent survey from the League of Minnesota Cities. During that span, condemnations accounted for 0.037 percent of all real estate transactions. What critics really have here is a solution in search of a problem.
Here's the biggest consequence: Reducing eminent domain's value will tip the balance even further toward sprawl. That means saddling the state with extra costs for infrastructure, adding to the private costs of driving and traffic congestion, and sticking taxpayers with the social costs of urban neglect.
Before jumping on the property-rights bandwagon, Minnesota lawmakers should put aside the fears of a few and consider soberly whether they really want to make it harder for their hometowns to revive and renew themselves.
Minneapolis Star-Tribune: www.startribune.com


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A Significant Life Challenge – what happens to our thinking …
We go through life, one foot in front of the other, focusing on the next goal, the next thing, always the next thing …. then … life happens.
In my case a relationship, love – the use of silence and dogma as a weapon to whose only purpose was to hurt and exclude – this came from a group projection.
I had allowed myself to love the idea of someone and of a belief in the future to help others, the reality was something else indeed … it was about all the most base of human fears, about control, about an ideology … for when the survival of a ideology becomes more important that the people within it, the ideology will always fail …. in this case my insight was that the ideology was false …. the most monumental challenge of my life was about to begin – I knew had to face it head on.
How we deal with life challenges such as grief or loss will also tend to follow a process – I know the more widely accepted model is the Kubler-Ross model, but I felt this was was more applicable to my own emotional or spiritual challenge
Stage One – SHOCK & DENIAL
We may react to learning of the Challenge with numbed, uncomprehending disbelief. You may deny, frantically try to rationalize the reality of the loss in order to avoid the pain. The shock is normal, experience it, as it provides the emotional protection from being overwhelmed all at once. This may last for weeks or longer,
Stage Two – PAIN & GUILT
As the shock wears off, it is replaced with the suffering of profound pain – this is normal, please try to experience the pain fully, and not hide from it, at this point is is incredibly important not to escape from it with alcohol or drugs.
Life feels chaotic, uncertain and scary at this point ..
Stage 3 – ANGER & BARGAINING
Frustration increases and may give way to anger, be aware that you may project this anger and anxiety onto family, friends or medical professionals – be aware and try to control this, as permanent damage to your relationships may result. This is a time to look outwards and find ways to release the bottled up emotion.
You may shout at the rain, Why Me ? You may also try to bargain in vain with the powers that be for a way out of your despair ("I will never …. If… )
Stage 4 – "DEPRESSION", REFLECTION, LONELINESS
A relatively long period of reflection may overtake you. This is a normal stage – flow with this, do not be "talked out of it" by well-meaning friends or family. Encouragement from others does not penetrate and serves no function but to increase the self doubt. For during this time, you finally comprehend the true magnitude of your loss, and it depression deepens, you may isolate yourself on purpose, reflect on things you did with your lost one, and focus on memories – this may be exacerbated by feelings of emptiness, despair and frustration and self doubt.
Stage 5 – THE UPWARD TURN-
As the reality of starting life without, your life becomes a little calmer and more organized. Your physical symptoms lessen, and your "depression" the feeling that your head feels like a sponge with no ability to think begins to lift.
Stage 6 – RECONSTRUCTION & WORKING THROUGH-
As you become more functional, your mind starts working again, and you will find yourself looking for realistic solutions to the life challenge posed by life without your loved one. You start to work on practical ways of reconstructing yourself and your life.
Stage 7 – ACCEPTANCE & HOPE
During this, the last of the seven stages in this grief model, we learn to accept and deal with the reality of our situation. Acceptance doesn't necessarily bring instant happiness.
Given the challenged face and the pain and turmoil you have experienced, you can never return to the carefree, untroubled YOU that existed before this tragedy. But you will find a way forward.
You will start to look forward and actually plan things for the future. Eventually, you will be able to think about your lost loved one without pain; sadness, yes, but the wrenching pain will be gone. You will once again anticipate some good times to come, and yes, even find joy again in the experience of living
I can see a light at the end of the tunnel and that light is me.
I spend a considerable time in nature … with the nurturing energies that help change my life … over time it brought new levels of consciousness and with that a new perspective on the ordinary and the journey itself.
I have also gone deeply into mindful meditation and movement therapy such as Thai Chi and Chi Gong (Qigong) … it was the initial reason why I give to others by teaching mindful meditation and movement therapies like Qigong and Tai Chi. online and in person http://mindfulunion.wordpress.com
During mindful meditation I arrived at the point where we exist day to day in a continuous meditative state – along with the controlling our thoughts … and being more in a feeling state than a thinking state .. life becomes creative and peaceful, love and understanding pervade your every waking moment.
Connecting the Dots
I was thinking about Steve Jobs the other day and a quote of his came to my mind … it went like this
"You can't connect the dots looking forward, you can only connect them looking backward"
He is so right, many months ago, it was as if I was in a dark room, feeling my way forward, but I kept falling over stuff, the future that I had invested in was always out of reach … my brother did what only brothers can, and asked me to look at the dark room again, but differently this time.
I went into a familiar process that I had first completed some 20 years ago, it requires only commitment and absolute honestly – it is essential that we face our demons, for until we do, we project them onto the world, through our reactive unconscious acts, hurting those we love, and who love us … since this time, the second process has been completed (such that it can be or ever is), the fiction that fears are real was revealed and you move past them .. you are at a new plateau, just, so long as we stay aware and keep owning your weaknesses.
When one is within the darkness, we can only feel the pain, for that part of us has no way of communication through language … it takes time, it take commitment, courage and time .. I honour all those who go through any recovery process.
It is wonderful to feel your family's love, but what they cannot do is facilitate or enable you – they will withdraw from you – to support you how they feel they can … it is as if they take you down to the dock for a long sea voyage … you can still feel their love .. but this is a journey we must take alone.
In hindsight, part of connecting the dots, you learn lots of things about yourself – you understand, accept and value yourself, you make friends with who you really are, and also with your ego, to understand it better .. you learn that there is almost no pain when we are present, for then the ego has no place to hide – you take what you have learnt and over a period of months you let go of the past and bring only the learning into your life – Staying present develops further into acceptance of what is and the letting go of expectations and any sense of a need for control, then one day and every day after, you are just grateful – you feel balanced and stronger, but most of all you are free. Frankly being truly free is a bit scary, but you try new things, people engage and you are on your way.
If one must label things, most of the time you are mindful – you bring a huge focus to anything that is in your present, because you are present … you are careful of where you walk so you don't tread on insects, you spend hours down by the beach, or in the woods, noticing every aspect of the web of life, the trees, the grass, the birds, of life abundance – new insights come, you experience your consciousness expanding like a wave, flowing outwards into the world … it is intoxicating and yet so much more .. but it is I feel only a beginning.
In this moment, I find life is a wonder – you don't judge, you love and understand the behaviour of others, and even if you don't understand, you feel real compassion for what they are going through (for I feel everyone is doing the best they know how to), insights come, and it feels good to engage and help others .. but the real outcome is that you know who you are, you need no one's approval for you have your own, you engage more with the community and surprisingly you are detached even from your own future …. you flow with what life brings as it comes into your present and you look to the future – you can still feel those you love, but it is as if you are traveling parallel paths, you wonder !…. but you know whatever happens, what a journey there must be yet to come, for all of us, together or apart ….. whatever comes, you are up for it
Where I am right now, I doubt I will be directly addressing this introspective aspect of me again, well anytime soon that is … for I guess the time for a definitive on any subject is well and truly gone.
I have a new list of subjects for blog posts coming up including an update on the State of our Paradigm I did last year .. interesting times … thanks for reading and if any are within such an experience as this, know it will be different for you, but flow with it, honestly and with courage, you too will come through. If you need a sounding board, contact me, I will help if I can.
The Story of the two Wolves
One day an old Native American grandfather was talking with his grandson.
He said, "There are two wolves fighting inside all of us – the wolf of fear and hate, and the wolf of love and peace."
The Grandson Listened, then looked up at his grandfather and asked,
"Which one will win?"
The Grandfather replied,
"The one we feed."
Oxymoron a definition
Here is the link to the New Scientist Article.. here
Only a military or amoral person would talk about a "safer' bomb… its got to be definition of an Oxymoron… so a contradiction in terms.. the only safe bomb is one you never make… let alone drop..the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico it littered with 10's of 1000's of tons of munitions… going back as far and perhaps before WWII
Developing a science for killing people and destruction… what a very strange species we are…
Being a whole person
A little voice inside of me …. came from afar… from a really good friend … who has quantified something that has been growing inside of me for years… in essence "feelings" which allow you to live in the moment… in the now… isn't that what we all need to do… live for the moment… it is far better than to live in the past, or the future….. to live in the now is my goal….. but most of all, I want us to feel the impact on others of our thoughts and actions … when we use our force or manipulation to hurt other souls or to hurt ourselves or Gaia… all of these actions we do for expediency (with the supposed hypothesis of "the end justifies the means" – the end is never justified by corrupt, un-ethical or means without thought or honour) or to shore up the insecurities in ourselves, but surely, as with all misdeeds we inflict on others, by the very nature of Karma, such actions will always come back to bite us, as they should.
Remember there is a bigger picture…. and everything that happens is not always about you.
Really I just want you to think… do think before you act…. to that end I would like to present you with a talk from Eve Ensler by way of Ted Talks… I hope it at least makes you think… if the embedded link doesn't work, then please click here Eve Ensler Program
So where am I – really ?
I know I am mainly content, and that I do not normally get upset or anxious about the effect the world has on me.
Hmmm…… that's not exactly true, sometime when I don't look after myself, don't eat well, don't sleep enough or don't exercise …. it all hits me at once… and I know what I have to do to make things better for me…
Once I start meditating, sleeping and exercising and watching what I eat, things change for the better very quickly… occasionally I have this need to eat certain types of food…. sometimes lettuce, vegetables, or other green leaf vegetables which quickly get me back on the straight and level…. it reminds me of the times when I walked my dog, and he will stop and munch away on this piece of grass or the next… my body is saying I need this…. once you oblige .
Emotionally I am pretty fine… I read a lot, and write a lot, so most of the issues I have inside me to talk about end up here… on in the word-processor… it is amazing how therapeutic it is… there is somewhat of an emotional emptiness as this sort of life can be somewhat solitary… but when the Universe believes the time is right … I will meet with someone who I am to share my life with… if that never happens, well that would be sad, but I guess that would be all right to…
So I am going to think how far I have come… and come back here and talk walk it through – to see how much a belief in yourself, in your goals, in other people can lead to success… which of course I have not achieved in full in material terms as yet, but I am achieving in spiritual terms, for this I am happy.
So I shall meet you back here to talk about this in the future when it is the right time for you and for me.


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A year ago this week, the credit bureau Equifax saw signs of a problem on its network. A really big problem. Hackers had entered the company's systems, stealing the personal and financial data of more than 147 million people in the United States, including Social Security numbers, dates of birth, home addresses, and some driver's license numbers and credit card numbers. Though other breaches have exposed more total records, the Equifax debacle is generally considered the worst corporate data breach ever in the US, because of both the scale and the nature of the information it exposed.
Equifax was also woefully underprepared to handle the fallout, botching both the public disclosure and its effort to make resources available to impacted people. In the months since, the credit bureau has remained fairly quiet amidst class action suits, congressional scrutiny, a Federal Trade Commission probe, and a wave of new state regulations designed to ensure that Equifax substantially improves its security defenses.
As part of this, process the company hired a new chief information security officer, Jamil Farshchi, in February. In a series of interviews, he and other top executives told WIRED that the company has committed to an expansive multiyear effort to transform its corporate and data security approach. The question at this point, though, is whether it could possibly be enough.
Mending Fences
Prior to Equifax, Farshchi had overseen information security at high-stakes companies like Time Warner and Visa, as well as government groups like Los Alamos National Laboratory. He's also no stranger to emergency response; Home Depot brought him in to help clean up the company's massive 2014 data breach, which exposed 56 million credit and debit card numbers. But working at Equifax now, Farshchi acknowledges the unprecedented scale of the crisis. "We had one of the most impactful breaches of all time," he says.
In the year since the breach, the company has invested $200 million on data security infrastructure. And Farshchi says Equifax has given him the resources he needs to build a stellar security program.
"One of the things that I really love about being a CISO in a post-breach environment is it gives you such an immense opportunity to drive fundamental, meaningful change in a very short timeframe," Farshchi says. "I felt like I did good things when I was at Los Alamos or at NASA, but it takes so frickin' long to push some of this stuff. The barriers you face at any company not post-breach is you're always fighting for budget, you're always fighting for face time, trying to justify and convince people about the importance of security and risk management. When you're in a post-breach environment, everyone already knows that it's critically important."
At a Congressional hearing in October, Equifax's former CEO Richard Smith hinted at the reckless approach to security the company took for years. Smith said that he had only met with company security and IT executives quarterly to discuss Equifax's status—four meetings a year to defend the crown jewels of US consumer data. He indicated that the company's software patching operation was inadequate and flawed. And he even admitted that Equifax's data storage approach didn't involve consistent, robust encryption.
That lax attitude directly resulted in the vulnerability hackers exploited to penetrate Equifax's networks and steal consumer data. The bug was a known web framework weakness; a patch had been available for about two months before hackers entered Equifax's network. The company had failed to apply it, and once hackers were on the network, Equifax's poor data hygiene, permissive access controls, and open network architecture allowed them to grab a priceless trove.
'We had one of the most impactful breaches of all time.'
Equifax CISO Jamil Farshchi
"The first step has been to stop the bleeding," Farshchi says of his work since starting with the company. "We have to harden the perimeter and make sure that we do not have any more weaknesses up front." At the beginning of a breach remediation process, prioritization is the toughest challenge, Farshchi says, since so many improvements and initiatives merit attention. So he emphasizes fundamentals, and completing baseline essential projects first.
That includes improving processes for patching, vulnerability management, and certificate management. Another primary priority has been strengthening access control protections and identity management across the company. By keeping systems more siloed, Equifax can minimize the free-for-all of unneeded access that adds exposure and risk. Additionally, Farshchi says that the company has prioritized improved data protection across its entire infrastructure, coupled with better detection and response programs to handle new problems more gracefully if and when they emerge.
All of these improvements are happening as Farshchi staffs up the security team—broadening its expertise—and works on governance and reporting so that Equifax can offer proof of compliance and general progress.
"It's easy from the outside [to judge], and trust me, I had a visceral reaction to the Equifax breach myself, because I was a victim of it," Farshchi says. "But when you get the view from the inside you see how many good things there are that you can use as the basis for future success."
In addition to new hiring and reorganization within the security department, Farshchi says that the company is also working on a major cultural shift to incorporate both preventative measures and response training across every department. Equifax is also already working to turn these improvements outward to help others—and perhaps tout its transformation in the process.
"Our goal is to create a world-class security program at Equifax and to share what we've learned from our own experiences in order to ultimately help our industry better protect and defend against cyberattacks," Equifax CEO Mark Begor wrote in comments to WIRED. "Data security is a long-term battle that will require continued innovation and attention. It will always be a top priority for our company."
Taking Credit
An important nuance of the Equifax data breach is that unlike other large-scale corporate leaks, like those suffered by Home Depot and Target, the data Equifax exposed wasn't from its direct customers. The three major credit reporting agencies—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—use consumer data as a commodity, selling it to anyone seeking access to credit reports. Which means that the people whose information Equifax exposed didn't have a choice about the company holding their information. In fact, consumer outcry in the wake of the breach made clear that many people in the US have never heard of credit bureaus, and don't know what they do or why they would possess so much personal data in the first place.
If nothing else, the blowback from the breach has made Equifax officials more conscientious about that distinction, and its ramifications. "We definitely were talking about, why do you need credit? What is credit," says Nancy Bistritz-Balkan, Equifax's vice president of consumer education and advocacy. "But the preamble to that conversation in terms of what exactly do the bureaus do, why is it important? I think that's definitely part of a conversation that we'll look at much more closely moving forward. I can tell you that from my own perspective, I got a lot of emails asking that question: 'Why does Equifax have my data?'"
Equifax has expanded its consumer outreach and education programs since the breach. But even if customers are aware of credit bureaus, they're still unable to opt out of them. "You are Equifax's commodity, and the fact is you have minimal control over what data they hold. That's what their business model is," says Ira Rheingold, the executive director of the National Association of Consumer Advocates. "That's what consumers are most concerned about. If consumers had a choice they would walk away and say, 'I don't want you to have my data.'"
But Bistritz-Balkan plays down consumer concerns of being trapped in the credit bureau system. "I don't know that I have heard that specific pushback," she says. "What I've heard from consumers is, 'hey, we need to understand this a little bit more.'"
Equifax says that "enhancing the experience of consumers who engage with us" is one of the four main priorities that have driven the company's transformation. Julia Houston, Equifax's chief transformation officer, a role created in October to coordinate breach remediation efforts, explains that the others include rebuilding trust with the bureau's actual customers, becoming an industry leader in data security, and investing in network security improvements.
Houston points to what she calls "fundamental shifts" in Equifax's business practices catalyzed by the breach. "Things like starting to change the way that we approach security training and education for professionals across the entire organization. And thinking about the way that we manage risk and teach our employees to manage risk," Houston says. "It's really just changing the way security is aligned within our organization."
'The first step has been to stop the bleeding.'
Jamil Farshchi
Equifax says it has made extensive progress, and details a robust approach to overhauling its security. But for those understandably not willing to take Equifax's word for it, progress on external accountability has come as well. The company signed a consent order at the end of June with regulators from eight states agreeing to certain specific improvements, like demonstrating that is has improved oversight mechanisms, security audits, and threat monitoring. Equifax is required to submit monthly progress reports to the regulators beginning this month, and a third-party firm will test to confirm that the improvements are in place by the end of the year.
"The way Equifax handled its breach was insulting, and in terms of the data that was stolen the cow has already left the barn," says Jason Glassberg, cofounder of the corporate security and penetration testing firm Casaba Security. "But if Equifax really has made that level of commitment to improving its cybersecurity then I applaud them. The question is just what they are spending this small fortune on in practice, and what the real-world security impact will actually be."
The FTC also opened an investigation into the Equifax breach in September. In May, FTC chairman Joe Simons told Congress that the agency is still "heavily focused" on the breach probe. But that same month, the FTC appointed as head of its Bureau of Consumer Protection a lawyer, Andrew Smith, who has represented numerous large corporations—including Equifax itself.
Equifax says that the transformation process is a long-term commitment to doing things differently, and letting the results speak for themselves. "It's important for people to understand the seriousness with which we're taking our remediation efforts, the investments that we're making in data security, and the seriousness with which we see our obligation to the data that's been entrusted with us," Houston says. "We have to continue to deliver, and then when we deliver on what we promise, that's when we will rebuild the trust."
For the 147 million Americans impacted by the breach, all of Equifax's improvements and reforms are likely small consolation. But at least the company has made strides toward minimizing the chances that it happens again—and being better prepared to react if it does. "No matter how much you invest, how great your people are, any organization nowadays can be breached," says Farshchi. And no one knows it better than Equifax.


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Thursday, August 6, 2009
And The Number Is... Week 31 Weigh In
On the down side I am still at 186 this week. I am very discouraged because I have been doing very good since Monday. Last week is kind of a blur but I didn't think I did that awful.
I am going to try not to feel to discouraged because I am back to tracking my points every day and I know that this is going to help me with the weight loss. I am also back to exercising which I am super excited about. I will be working with my trainer 3 days a week until the end of the month. After my workout with my trainer I have been doing about a half hour on the elliptical. This will help me lose some fat. :) My trainer also suggested doing ten minutes on the treadmill and then switch to the bike just to switch things up a bit.
My Week In Review:
1. Exercise:I started exercising again on Tuesday. I know it didn't help me to much for today's weigh in but I am sure it will help me with the weeks to follow.
2. Track My Points Every Day: I finally got back to tracking my points every day. I really need to continue this to be successful.
4. Water: I drank lots of water.
5. Late night eating: I had one night that I woke up at midnight and ate three leftover cookies from the bridal shower.
6. Snacking: I found some inexpensive healthy snacks at the grocery store this week. So I have had a nice variety to chose from.
7. Eating more fruits and veggies: I am loving the fresh fruit this summer. I have really kept my house stocked with it. Actually, yesterday I was at a local amusement park and I had a grilled chicken sandwich for lunch and instead of fries I ordered a huge container of fresh fruit. It tasted wonderful and was so refreshing because it was so hot.
What do I need to do this week?
I need to continue to track my points every day (Very Important). I also need to not only work with my trainer but also exercise on my off days. My trainer suggested interval walking, biking or Jillian Micheals.
I would love to hear about how you did this week and what worked best for you.
5 comments:
- Unknown said...
You're doing great! I've been losing and gaining the same 2 lbs for the last month. :( I'll get it someday!
I've tagged you! Come visit and play along when you have a chance!
- August 6, 2009 at 7:37 AM
- Nerd Girl said...
weight training, and having sore muscles, can often mess with the scales because your muscles retain a lot of water especially when they are worked hard. They use the water to help repair them, and that could cause your weight to stay the same or even rise, but it does NOT mean that you aren't losing fat. Losing weight and losing fat are two different ball games, and if you are back on track with food and working out, then you will most definitely lose FAT even if you aren't losing WEIGHT. great job!!
- August 6, 2009 at 10:03 AM
Way to go with the personal trainer! I'm sure the person will teach you a lot. Then you'll feel comfortable using the equipment and not wonder if you are doing it right. I know when I had a membership to the gym I always felt weird b/c I was unsure of how to use things.
Anyway, wish I lived closer to go to the gym with you! You look great- remember about all of my dresses you can borrow in a few weeks! That should be some motivation!
- August 6, 2009 at 10:47 AM
- Pubsgal said...
You *are* doing great! And you know, sometimes starting up a workout routine or working extra hard will put on a little water weight as your muscles rebuild. If you have not done so yet, start taking your body measurements on a monthly basis, so you can see the difference. My progress down the scale has slowed quite a bit as I'm getting closer to goal, but my measurements keep changing as I develop more muscle and tone. (I still have some more fat to lose, but I'm seeing good stuff emerging, too!) Hang in there, it's worth it!
- August 6, 2009 at 12:21 PM
- Secret Mom Thoughts said...
I have such a hard time tracking each day but I must do it. You are during great. I bet this trainer is going to be great for you.
- August 6, 2009 at 1:09 PM


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Ben & Jerry have been making friends across the world for years with their delicious and flavorsome ice cream. In fact, we're willing to bet that if you have had ice cream in the past, you've definitely had Ben and Jerry's at some point. There are so many awesome and epic flavors to choose from, and they seem to add more with every passing year.
When you're trying to choose your favorite flavor of ice cream, it will often depend upon what is available. The great thing about the choices Ben and Jerry's offer is that they are always completely different compared to what you are used to. So, what is the best flavor of Ben and Jerry's? Well, that's a totally subjective answer, but, why don't we take a look at what the company themselves has to say?!
Phish Food
Ben and Jerry's ranked this a criminally low 7th on their list, but we're overruling it because Phish Food is one of the most delicious and important flavors the company has ever made. This flavor will always be a staple of the Ben and Jerry's menu, and for the iconic nature of it. We have to award it a place on the list. Ben and Jerry's seems to think there are 6 superior flavors to this one, but we have to disagree; we can only think of three, and even those are only slightly superior to this classic offering.
Cookie Dough
Another absolute classic from the company here, Cookie Dough has been a staple of lonely Friday nights in front of the TV for years now. You're welcome, America! This tasty and morish offering has got to be one of the best flavors of ice cream ever! Anonymously suggested by a fan in 1984, this flavor is still as popular today as it was back then. Whomever that fan was, we hope Ben and Jerry's tracked them down and gave them a lifetime supply of the stuff!
Chocolate Fudge Brownie
Now, some people might claim this flavor is too sweet and sickly, but they are the sort of people who just shouldn't be allowed to have it! Chocolate Fudge Brownie is not only one of the best flavors Ben and Jerry's ever did, but one of the best ice cream flavors of all time, period! This rich, delectable ice cream is one we just can't get enough of, and we know we aren't alone with that either. There are so many people within the Ben and Jerry's community who rate this one very highly, so we have no problem placing it here on our list.
Cherry Garcia
Love it or hate it, there's no denying the allure and popularity of this one. Cherry Garcia is still a perfectly decent flavor even if you aren't too keen on cherry. But, if you love cherries there is simply nothing like it. This is one of the most unusual flavors around but is also one of the best-loved, and it's hard to find a Cherry Garcia flavor that gets it right in the way Ben and Jerry's manages to. Whether you're having a tub solo or sharing with friends, this is certainly the perfect flavor for you.
Ben and Jerry's has been wowing us for years with their truly sensational flavors. There are so many wicked combinations or types that we simply would not have thought of before. This is one of the reasons why Ben and Jerry's is such an important and popular company, and we can't wait for the new flavors they choose to bring out.


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Hello beautiful people!
Gosh, I cannot believe that we are almost reaching end of March already. Seems like yesterday that I passed New Year's Eve at home quietly and suddenly now Easter is coming.
|Chanel Luminous Matte Powder Make Up 100 Intense, Smashbox The Santigolden Age Eye Shadow Apocalypse Now, Guerlain Blusher Caresse de l'Aube 07, Sisley Transparent Loose Powder 3 Sandy, Shiseido Ibuki Refining Moisturizer Enriched, Clinique Even Better Concealer Suede, Estée Lauder MagnaScopic Mascara, Chanel Coco Madamoiselle, Lancome Miracle Cushion Beige Miel 04, BE Foundation Brush, Chanel Nail Polish Paparazzi 579
Background: Mantel H&M


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Bangkok the Most Affordable For Songkran-Goers
If you want to celebrate Songkran but don't want to sell an internal organ to afford it, then Bangkok is the best place to go. When compared to three other popular tourist spots: Chiang Mai, Pattaya and Phuket; Bangkok would cost the least for festival goers.
A study showed that Bangkok tourists would spend on average 3,357 (AUS $110) a day. Phuket remains the most expensive of the group, with average spending at 5,154 Baht a day (AUS $168).
The other two, Chiang Mai and Pattaya, would cost tourists 4,389 Baht (AUS $145) and $3,808 Baht ($125) respectively. For accommodation you'll spend 4,438 (AUS $145) in Phuket, 3,810 (AUS $125) in Chiang Mai, 3,019 Baht (AUS $98) in Pattaya and 2,684 Baht (AUS $87) in Bangkok.


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Turret Operator Positions Available in Brampton
Brampton , ON
Job Description
LIFT Training & Staffing is looking for TURRET OPERATOR to work for one of our reputable warehouses/clients in BRAMPTON.
Are you hardworking, reliable and passionate about what you do? We want you to join our team and become an employee of LIFT Training & Staffing! We can help you give your career a LIFT.
Job Description: We are looking for candidates to operate TURRET in a fast paced environment. Must be certified and experienced on TURRET.
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CALL US AT 905 949 2929 MONDAY TO FRIDAY BETWEEN 9 AM-2 PM with a VALID FORKLIFT CERTIFICATION
Lift Training & Staffing welcomes and accepts applications from individuals with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process
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Other Uses
Precognition, divination, visions, fortune telling and scrying:
Some systems allow PC's to see the future by the use of spells, feats, powers or visions.
This can sometimes be difficult for the GM as the players constantly ask for clues at the start of every game session.
Imagine the look of horror on their faces as you tell them to draw cards with the full knowledge that something will certainly happen at some point!
With a suitably evil grin, ask the Player to shuffle every deck and draw a card from each pile without looking at them. Now have the player hand the cards to you face down.
We recommend that the player does not get to see the draw; it keeps them nervous that way.
Interpret the draw using the guidelines below, twist it to fit the game and your sense of humour then relate the vision to the player in suitably dark metaphors.
Note the results for use later on and spring it on the player when they think they got away with it.
To help with the record keeping, we've included a downloadable record sheet in the Media & Downloads section of the site.


text: The two pop stars play cute for the cameras in the latest promos for Saturday Night Live's season finale. We don't know if the Lady and the Trousersnake have any collaborations planned for tomorrow night, but TMZ has obtained some very-spoilery photos featuring Timberlake and a box. We have high hopes.


text:
By now, you've no doubt heard about the promising implications of the semantic Web and semantic technology.
But, until recently, much of what was written about semantics described it as a near artificial intelligence, with huge implications for the Web, but precious little to add to business IT. In the past year, more has emerged about how it would actually function, but still, very little had been written about how how semantics could be used within enterprises or other organizations.
This year, that's changing. Recently, I've found a slew of articles on this very topic, thanks in large part to two publications - the Data Strategy Journal and the spring edition of the PricewaterhouseCoopers Technology report - focusing exclusively on the topic.
Reading through these pieces, I realized there's probably a lot of misconceptions about the semantic Web and semantic tech in general -- and in particular, about how this will impact businesses. On Friday, I looked at three semantic Web myths and the corresponding realities:
- Semantic technology is only for the Web.
- The semantic Web will be separate from the one we use now.
- Semantic Web technology is really only for accessing structured data.
Today, as promised, I look at three more myths, each related more specifically to semantic tech and business IT:
Myth: The semantic Web will make all of your information available to anyone-even you don't want to share!
Reality: ReadWriteWeb, in a nice summary of the PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) report on semantic technologies, points out that the report takes this myth to task:
"The problem that enterprises often face with Web technologies is the lack of control they introduce. PwC acknowledges this, but says that enterprises only need to control some data - not all of it. To take true advantage of the Web, says PwC, enterprises need to be able to take advantage of its scale -- and that's not possible without giving up some control. So PwC advises enterprises to 'limit your controlled environment to what you don't have to scale.'"
Myth: The semantic Web will require you to invest heavily in creating an ontology.
Reality: Actually, there's a lot of opportunity to piggyback on other people's works, as Brian Schulte, an expert in MDM deployments, points out in the Data Strategy Journal article on MDM and semantic technology. For instance, musicontology.com and DBpedia created ontologies and made them available online. You could use those ontologies, modifying where you need to be more specific. The idea is to create a snowball effect. "Ideally, you make public the non-sensitive elements of your business-specific ontology that are consistent with your business model, so others can make use of them," says Schulte.
MDM and semantic integration.
Myth: This stuff is all theory. No one's actually doing anything with semantic technology.
Reality: Oh yes, they are. Yahoo unveiled SearchMonkey, a semantic search tool, in March, and Google recently announced Google Squared, a new Labs tool that uses semantic technology for search. Google also unveiled a "Rich Snippets" enhancement to its search tool.Rich Snippets decodes two semantic standards, RDFa and microformats and, according to Tim O'Reilly, it could be a significant turning point for the Semantic web.
But again, this isn't just for search engines. The PricewaterhouseCoopers Tech Forecast includes a piece on how the semantic Web might be used to improve cancer treatment, discusses shared ontologies in the oil and gas industry, and offers examples of how early adopters are introducing semantic Web to the enterprise. It also includes a list of vendors who have started to incorporate semantic tools, including Microsoft and Oracle.
Hopefully, you've found this list of six myths and their corresponding realities helpful. I suspect we'll hear more later this month on how semantic technologies can be applied in an enterprise setting, since the SemTech Conference 2009 is scheduled for June 14-19 in San Jose, California. The program includes a number of sessions focused on how semantic technology can be used to solve existing business problems.


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A "bulletproof shoulder" is a shoulder that is pain-free and resistant to injury - and you can have one too - Bulletproof Your Shoulder will show you how.
In less than 100 pages, readers will learn about the Bulletproof Shoulder Program - a series of simple and powerful exercises you do at home or in the gym, that take a few minutes a day to do - yet create powerful changes in your shoulder tissues making it bulletproof to pain and injury. Recommended for chronic shoulder pain, athletes, workers who do repetitive arm activities, or anyone who simply wants to get rid of or avoid shoulder problems. For those with a specific rotator cuff problem - recommend Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff.


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Ephesians 4:28 says: "Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth."
Our quote for today is from Philip Stanhope. He said: "Know the true value of time; snatch, seize, and enjoy every moment of it. No idleness, no laziness, no procrastination: never put off till tomorrow what you can do today."
Today, in the Get Things Done podcast we are looking at Part 2 of Step 5: "Raise Your Energy Level."
Edwin Bliss writes:
When it comes to boosting your energy level, programmed exercise is only part of the story. There is also the matter of getting the kind of physical activity during the working day that will prevent fatigue.
People with sedentary jobs often get too little activity at their work and consequently become lethargic. We weren't designed to work at a desk or a machine or a computer screen for eight hours at a stretch. These prolonged periods of immobility cause the blood to stagnate in the large muscles and in the extremities. The result is a feeling of drowsiness or tiredness, so that when we are faced with an unpleasant, postponable task, the scales are tipped toward postponement rather than toward action.
Most office tasks can be done at least part of the time standing up. Now, of course, if you are an office worker you will sit most of the time, but you should use every opportunity to alternate between sitting and standing to minimize fatigue. For example, you might form the habit of standing when on the telephone. An extra-long telephone cord or a cordless phone can free you from being confined to one spot while phoning.
If you do want to sit, it's often better to sit on the edge of a desk or table rather than sitting plopped in a chair, because you don't remain in the same position for long periods. Hold conferences standing rather than sitting, when possible they tend to be shorter and more productive that way anyhow. And a standup work area can reduce fatigue. A counter, a bookcase, a file cabinet, even a makeshift work platform about elbow height anything that provides an alternative to prolonged sitting is worth considering.


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Gola Eclipse women's sneaker is a wear with everything and anything style, a season essential if you want the 'now' look in footwear and a season must have if you want comfort thrown in too. The exaggerated sole with colour block panels perfectly complements the white with grey and blossom pink mesh and suede panelled upper, to give a Gola trainer option with an edge.
•Suede and mesh upper
•Colour block panels
•Lace up trainer
•Ladies style
•Heritage style
All footwear styles listed on the site are US sizes. We do not currently offer half sizes or varying width fittings. Due to the nature of footwear production fit can vary from style to style, we can not guarantee a style will fit an individual.
Delivery Information
Orders are processed and delivered Monday-Friday (excluding national holidays), we do not despatch or deliver on weekends. Orders placed after 2pm (EST) will be processed the following working day. Unfortunately we can not be held responsible for deliveries that are late. US Standard delivery is charged at $8. A single order can include up to 10 items for which the shipping prices are fixed. Delivery times are a guide only and are not guaranteed.
Returns Policy
If you're not completely satisfied with your purchase, all USA orders can be returned free of charge using our pre-paid service with the USPS. All items must be returned unworn in their original packaging and within 14 days of receipt. To return your items please follow the guide on your delivery note.
Alternatively you can return the items via a courier of your choice, but we're afraid that this will be at your own expense. We would recommend that you use a recorded delivery service, as we cannot be held liable for any goods lost in transit.
If you have any other issues in relation to your order please contact firstname.lastname@example.com


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Washington: A new research has revealed that visiting a doctor twice a year helps people to keep their blood pressure (BP) under control.
The research found that having healthcare insurance and getting treated for high cholesterol also increased the likelihood of keeping blood pressure under control.
Author Brent M. Egan from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in Greenville said that obese people in the study were also likelier to keep their blood pressure under control, probably because doctors recognize the need to control risk factors and may be quicker to give them blood pressure medications.
After controlling for diabetes, health insurance, body mass index, smoking and other factors, Egan found that doctor visits were the strongest predictor of blood pressure control.
The American Heart Association recommended that people with blood pressure readings of 140/90 mm Hg or higher make lifestyle changes such as losing weight, eating healthy and engaging in physical activity, and if necessary, take medicine.
The study is published in the American Heart Association's journal Circulation.
Source By : Zee Health News


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Westfield Wheaton, commonly known as the Wheaton Plaza Mall, is located in Wheaton, Maryland and has 209 stores. During the 1950s, Wheaton Plaza was the largest shopping center in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, D.C. These shops offer everything from women and men's fashion, children's fashion and toys, jewelry, housewares, accessories, books and cards, electronics, and music. The department and warehouse stores in and around the mall include JC Penny, Macy's, Target, Giant Food Store, and Costco.
About the Westfield and Wheaton Area
Westfield owns and operates 35 shopping centers in the United States and the United Kingdom, valued at $31 billion. Westfield's strategy is to create and operate flagship assets in leading markets that deliver great experiences for retailers, consumers, and brands, as well to maximize the value and productivity of the portfolio through ongoing development and intensive asset management.
The Wheaton neighborhood is located in Montgomery County, Maryland, north of Washington, D.C., and northwest of Silver Spring. The area is home to Wheaton Regional Park, which includes a nature center, riding stables, and a dog park. The park also provides a picnic area with a carousel and a miniature train, an athletic complex with indoor tennis courts, an ice skating rink, and ball fields.
Wheaton also has Brookside Gardens, Montgomery County's award-winning 50-acre garden. It has been designated by the State of Maryland as an Arts and Entertainment District, joining Silver Spring and Bethesda as the third district in Montgomery County to receive the distinction.
Dining and Entertainment
The Westfield area is also well-known for its diversity of restaurants. Mall visitors may dine at the food court or enjoy a more relaxed meal at restaurants like Checkers or Crisp & Juicy. They can also see a movie at the AMC Wheaton 9, a nine-screen movie theater located at Westfield, that features recliner seating, reserved seating, and a MacGuffins Bar serving AMC-crafted cocktails. The mall also sponsors seasonal family-friendly events, and Downtown Wheaton offers a TGIF Summer Concert Series to showcase and promote the local area.
Getting to Westfield Wheaton
The address for Westfield Wheaton is 11160 Veirs Mill Road, Wheaton MD, 20902. The official website is www.westfield.com/wheaton and should be viewed for up-to-date information, such as mall hours and telephone number. Westfield Wheaton is accessible by Metro or by driving:
- Metro: Visitors can take the Red Line to the Wheaton Metro station, and then take the bridge crossing Viers Mill Road to the mall.
- Driving From I-270: Drivers can take I-270 South to I-495 East, and then take exit 31 for MD-97/Georgia Ave. toward Silver Spring/Wheaton. Drivers should then keep right at the fork, follow signs for MD-97 North, and merge onto MD-97 North/Georgia Ave. Once drivers take a slight left onto Veirs Mill Road, the mall will be located on their left.
- Driving From the Capital Beltway (I-495): Drivers can hop on I-495 West toward Silver Spring and take exit 31 for MD-97/Georgia Ave. toward Silver Spring/Wheaton. Then, drivers should keep right at the fork, follow signs for MD-97 N, and merge onto MD-97 N/ Georgia Ave. Finally, drivers will take a slight left onto Veirs Mill Road, and the mall will be located on their left.


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http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mommymatter Then come back here or to MommyMatter to check out all the links I'm going to mention…. Straight talk about kids and gun safety. Or, heck, just tune in to hear what I actually sound like. Yipe. 1 pm PST today – that's 2 for you Mountain folks, 3 for y'all in Central and…Read More
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On the air… The Gunchick Speaks!
Kids and guns – it's a parent's nightmare, right? Straight talk without paranoia – no hype and no politics. Sound good? Yeah, I thought so too. That's why I am really excited to be teaming up with the ladies at MommyMatter and Blog Talk Radio to host The Gunchick Speaks – a once a month…Read More
The Gunchick on the air…
Some of you may know I'm working out details to do a monthly radio show in conjunction with MommyMatter and their mommy talk radio programs – more details on that later… Stand by… Suffice to say, there's a great line up in the works, and the Gunchick show should be kicking off soon, followed by…Read More


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• When your parent says "I don't need any help" try gently pointing out that they no longer pursue the activities they enjoy like playing bridge, going shopping, choosing library books, etc. Then tell them how much more pleasant life would be with some help so that they could stay in their home and maintain independence.
• When your parent says, "I want things done my way, I'm the only one who knows what I like to eat, do, buy etc." let them know they can choose and supervise the caregiver.
• If your parent is adamant that they don't want a stranger in their house, allay fears by staying with them for one or two days while the caregiver is there as well as dropping in to see how things are at different hours of the day and night.
• When your parent says, "Absolutely not" contact the home-care agency and arrange a visit with another senior who is happy with their caregiver. Being able to witness a positive situation may help your parent to make a decision.
• Discuss what would happen if they won't let anyone help. Let them experience a couple of days without your assistance so they understand it is best to have someone around regularly.
• Slowly introduce them to outside services. For example, arrange for someone to take them shopping or to the library. A kind and compassionate person coming into the home may earn trust and prepare them to be open to further assistance.
• Consider hiring a geriatric-care manager or Certified Professional Consultant on Aging who has the expertise to help your parent accept assistance.
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This FAQ was found at: http://www.linkedin.com/newsviewArticle=&articleID=699158610&gid=707477&type=member&item=66138339&articleURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Elaservices%2Eca%2Ffaq2%2Ehtml&urlhash=gAXh&trk=group_most_popular-0-b-shrttl&goback=%2Enmp_*1_*1_*1_*1_*1_*1


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Munier, 27 years old, born and raised in Manenberg. SS: What does Manenberg mean to you? M: Manenberg means a place like no other. There's a lot of gangsterism and drugs, but it's a place I call home. I feel safer here than anywhere else. SS: How have the gangs impacted your life? M: They haven't influenced me. I've always seen the choice of becoming a gangster or not. I avoid them. #southafrica #africa #capetown #manenberg #lovefrommanenberg #gangs #home
From the album


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Sue Braun has a photo a neighbor took in January of a shattered window and a bullet that pierced a child's bedroom window in Enfield.
"Where the bullet came through was less than a foot away from where a child would normally be sleeping," Braun said.
The homeowner whose home had the bullet hit didn't want to be identified, but allowed Braun to share the pictures with NBC Connecticut.
"With my kids playing outside, I was a little worried," Braun said. And then in June, another bullet another house in Braun's neighborhood.
That homeowner also didn't want to be identified, but told NBC Connecticut he noticed damage to the siding and when he went to replace it, he noticed a bullet lodged in the side.
"I was in shock. My son sleeps close to where it was," the homeowner said.
Three bullets have been found in the past six months in homes near Light Street in Enfield. Neighbors blame a nearby firing range that the Enfield Police Department uses for training.
About three-quarters of a mile from the neighborhood, Enfield Hunters Club sits on Town Farm Road.
Enfield Police Chief Carl Sferrazza told NBC Connecticut that the Enfield Hunters Club has been around for 50 years, the police department has trained there for 12 years and there's never been a problem.
"The police range officer did some tests and the department is confident that the bullets are not from the police," Chief Sferrazza said.
That answer is not sitting well with the neighborhood.
"But then the question is, 'Where are they coming from and why are they all the same caliber and why are they ending up in houses?" Braun said.
Community members say the bullets needs to stop, because the stakes are too high.
"They need to relocate the range for sure. There's too many kids in the neighborhood," said the man who found a bullet in his siding.


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Even with the latest release of Firefox out for OS X users, Safari and Chrome are still very much something that remains on the radar. And obviously for OS X users, Safari is never far from anyone's mind when it comes to a strong browser right out of the gate.
As for what is making Firefox 3.5 such a hit, that is difficult to explain. On my Linux box, it's performance is vastly improved. And on the Mac, I have also noted some improvement there as well. Firefox does seem to run a bit smoother. Enough to where I am not reaching for alternatives as often, anyway.
As to whether the new found competition with Chrome is going to eventually be an issue, I would remind everyone it is too early to know yet. Ask me again in a year or so, then I should have a better idea on this one I suspect. Because thus far, Chrome is not a threat to anyone.


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Perched at the busy intersection of Interstate 35W and Washington Avenue on the edge of downtown Minneapolis, Bobby & Steve's Auto World had built a small but growing stream of customers stopping in to buy E85, a fuel blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline.
Lately, however, E85 business has disappeared as the price of gas dropped, said Gerald Scheeler, the station's operations manager. "Our peak volume was when gas was $4 a gallon. We've probably experienced a 50 percent drop in sales."
Once seen as a promising alternative, E85 has struggled to become a mainstream fuel in the United States. A decade after its introduction, the blend has failed to find much of an audience, even in Minnesota, which boasts the highest number of E85 pumps in the country and devoted endorsements from the Legislature and Gov. Tim Pawlenty.
Reasons for sluggish growth are many—none more important than the recent decline in regular gas prices, which makes E85 less economical for the consumer because ethanol delivers fewer miles per gallon. But other matters also have influenced E85 demand.
For example, the number of flex-fuel vehicles on the road that can run on the mostly alcohol blend is small, which leaves station owners wondering why they should invest in a fuel few customers can buy. As a result, E85 is not widely available at retail fuel stations. Retail penetration is complicated further by the fact that a battle-tested, industry-accepted pump for E85 also has failed to materialize, slowing expansion into chain petroleum stations—not just for E85, but also for ethanol blends between 10 percent and 85 percent, which might hold the most promise for ethanol consumption.
Skid marks
Like many things in 2008, the ethanol market didn't appear headed toward this predicament by year's end. High gas prices led to strong consumption through the first three quarters, and annual E85 use has been on the rise. Minnesota consumed 21.4 million gallons of E85 in 2007, up from 17.8 million the prior year. E85 volume in Wisconsin is considerably smaller (an estimated 6 million gallons in 2008), but has grown more than eightfold since 2005. In North Dakota, sales of E85 jumped from 528,000 gallons in 2007 to 817,300 gallons from January to October of last year.
Those numbers might seem large, but E85 represented just slightly more than 1 percent of the gas sold in Wisconsin and 3 percent in Minnesota. At Bobby & Steve's, E85 makes up 2 percent to 4 percent of gasoline sales—above average for E85-friendly stations. But as Scheeler said, "It's still a pretty small number."
The biggest influence on ethanol consumption is the price of gasoline. Since E85 gets an estimated 12 percent to 20 percent less mileage than regular gasoline, its price typically needs to be at least 20 percent less for consumers to consider purchasing it, said Scheeler. E85 prices generally track in the same direction as gas, but the price spread widens as gasoline prices rise. E85 sales soared in June 2008 when gas was $4 a gallon and E85 was $2.50 a gallon in Minnesota—a price differential of 37 percent. But that price differential crumbled to 7.3 percent nationwide by January 2009.
"The price of gasoline is so low and the price of ethanol so high, it leaves us with a lot of E85 stations not selling much ethanol," said Phillip Lampert, executive director of the Jefferson City, Mo.-based National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition (NEVC). "We're in a different situation now (than in summer of 2008), especially with higher levels of ethanol blend."
Gary French, general manager of the Sioux Valley Cooperative, watched as E85 gained traction last year until gasoline prices fell. "You have to have about a 40- to 50-cent spread to entice people to use it-that's what we've seen, anyway," he said. In December, the price spread at his station in Watertown, S.D., had fallen to 19 cents a gallon ($1.47 versus $1.66); nationally it was about 13 cents.
Pump problems
Even die-hard E85 users can't just roll up to any gas station and get a tank of corn hooch. In fact, only 1,900 stations nationwide sell E85—a penetration rate of little more than 1 percent. Consider the country's two most populous states: California has just 10 stations with E85; Texas, a mere 26.
The spread of E85 pumps is better—though still paltry—in the Midwest because of its ethanol culture. Wisconsin, for example, has 120 or so stations with E85 pumps, including four in Eau Claire—still just 3.4 percent of the state's 3,500 retail stations. South Dakota has 73 stations, North Dakota has 31 and Montana has four, according to the NEVC.
Minnesota offers the best E85 distribution network by far, with more than 370 pumps and Internet maps of where they are located, good for trip planning. Yet even in the Shangri-La of E85, Pawlenty backpedaled last year on his once optimistic prediction that the state would have 1,800 E85 pumps by 2010.
Various monkey wrenches hamper the development of higher E85 demand. Aside from gas prices, the biggest is the scarcity of flex-fuel vehicles on the road. Among Wisconsin's 6.6 million registered vehicles, only 142,000 are FFVs, according to the state Office of Energy Independence. In Minnesota, despite more numerous E85 stations, there are only 175,000 or so FFVs.
"For any new fuel, it's difficult. It's the chicken and egg issue—which comes first, the flexible-fuel vehicles or retailers?" according to Robert Moffitt, spokesman for the American Lung Association of Minnesota, a major player in advocating for E85 and for assisting stations in adding E85 pumps to their operations.
"It's a Catch 22—retailers say we don't want to put in more stations until we see more vehicles, and vehicle manufacturers say we need more stations before we can produce more vehicles," he said.
Ironically, many of the 6 million FFVs nationwide that ply the roads have never seen a drop of E85 in their tanks. Part of that is attributable to the paucity of fueling stations. But many FFV owners are unaware that they have such a vehicle; until fairly recently, FFVs carried no distinctive markings to remind consumers that they can fill up with E85. In 2007, Detroit automakers began adding yellow E85 stickers and yellow gas caps to many FFVs. Perhaps not surprisingly, a General Motors study in 2007 showed that nearly 70 percent of FFV buyers had no idea they were driving an FFV.
Detroit's initial foray into FFV manufacturing also may have contributed to the lack of consumer acceptance. Just a few years ago, FFVs came in one flavor: trucks. Critics have argued that automakers saw it as a strategy to exploit a loophole in the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards that gave automakers a quick and easy way to score tax credits. This year, however, automakers offer more than 50 FFVs, from SUVs to small trucks and cars such as the Chevrolet Impala. The list offers a richer variety than ever before, but it still favors heavier vehicles over mid-sized and small autos.
FFVs have also taken a back seat in the environmental spotlight. For example, the North American International Auto Show, the industry's premier event in January in Detroit, featured 38 FFVs, an impressive number, but the media buzz was mainly around electric cars. Similarly, hybrids were the topic of considerable attention during the recent hubbub over a Big Three bailout. And given the current state of car sales, it's hard to imagine FFV sales growing much in the near term.
Without a sizable fleet of FFVs out on the road thirsty for E85, a market cannot flourish. "It's a difficult sell … because you have to have the right car and find the right station and the right pump at the right price. That's pretty demanding from a market perspective," said Ralph Groschen, senior marketing specialist at the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
Advocates also believe that the sluggish uptake of E85 can be traced back to the lack of an E85 dispenser approved by Underwriters Laboratories, whose ubiquitous UL symbol can be found on hundreds of thousands of appliances and products. Many station owners are reluctant to sell E85 without UL-approved equipment.
"My understanding is that big-box stores like Wal-Mart were prepared to put in islands for gasoline with E85, but when UL made it public they had not formally approved any approach on E85, it was dead for big-box merchants," said Groschen. Stations generally are not required by law to have UL-approved pumps—and if they are, waivers are sometimes available. But many want them for reasons of liability.
Ron Lamberty, vice president for market development at the American Coalition for Ethanol in Sioux Falls, S.D., said he's heard no complaints from stations selling E85 in pumps without UL certification. Still, many station owners don't want to risk not having UL-approved pumps because of insurance and safety concerns. Early reports say E85 pumps may cost $7,000 to $9,000 more than traditional pumps (which cost roughly $10,000 to $15,000) due to the need for specially plated surfaces within the pumps to prevent the corrosive effects of ethanol, he said.
John Drengenberg, UL's consumer affairs manager, said standards for testing were released in October 2008 and pump manufacturers have submitted equipment, mainly dispensers, for testing. No manufacturer, however, has provided a complete accompaniment of parts necessary for an E85 pump. The organization is being careful with testing because alcohol corrodes equipment much differently, and more quickly, than petroleum, said Drengenberg.
Breaking the blender wall
Oddly, many see the ethanol market as either E10 (a staple at gas stations nationwide) or E85, when in reality the "E-market" can be any blend in between. The ethanol industry believes that government policy has created a "blender wall" forcing consumers to buy, and station owners to sell, either E10 or E85.
Very slowly, the lid is getting lifted off this market. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has given Clean Air Act waivers to the Dakotas, Minnesota and Wisconsin to sell E15, E20 and other blends to FFV drivers who, in general, have reported better mileage using those blends than E85. And the federal energy act passed in 2007 encourages the development and sale of vehicles able to use higher blends than E10.
In fact, there is evidence that in-between blends offer decent mileage and cleaner emissions. A widely cited 2007 study, cosponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy and the American Coalition for Ethanol, found that vehicles without any adjustments operated better than expected—including gas mileage—on higher ethanol blends, suggesting that the optimal ethanol-gasoline blend for standard, non-flex-fuel vehicles might be E20 or E30.
Lamberty's organization has lobbied to allow the broader sale of higher ethanol blends. Station owners could use their existing infrastructure for E10 or E30 without having to make a new investment in E85 pumps. Many flex-fuel drivers, he said, might prefer a less aggressive blend than E85, and station owners would avoid a costly investment in new equipment.
Mike Rud, president of the Bismarck-based North Dakota Petroleum Marketers Association, noted the EPA's waiver for that state to sell E20 and E30 to flex-fuel owners (and others willing to try it, illegally, in their non-flex-fuel cars) and pointed out that lower blends sell "far quicker than E85."
His counterpart in South Dakota, Dawna Leitzke, executive director of the Pierre-based South Dakota Petroleum and Propane Marketers Association, said the general consensus "is that E85 is not the fuel of the future" and that lower ethanol blends give drivers "more power with a price point that is better." Drivers who use E20 and above in non-flex-fuel cars do so at their own risk and void their warranties, said Leitzke, although conversion kits (which are not approved by the EPA) exist for those who do not want to buy a flex-fuel vehicle but want to use higher blends, she said.
"E85 is probably the most inefficient (blend) of ethanol to use," added Doug Sombke, president of the Huron-based South Dakota Farmer's Union, which supports blender pumps. "E20 and E30 are both better for mileage." Shombke's own organization runs E30 in vehicles with no loss of miles per gallon, he said.
Minnesota, too, has 34 stations selling blends ranging from E20 to E50, with the highest volume concentrated in the E20 and E30 range. Groschen said that E20 and other blends offer "exciting possibilities" for extending ethanol's range beyond the two blends now most widely available and sees them as crucial as the state moves toward an E20 mandate, slated for 2013 but contingent on federal approval.
A second wind?
One of the brighter spots for E85 is support from the federal and state governments that encourage, if not require, their vehicle fleets to use the blend in flex-fuel vehicles. State governments in Minnesota and Wisconsin, in particular, have seen E85 consumption increase dramatically due to a strategy of having mobile employees use it whenever possible. More than 15 percent of North Dakota's government fleet consists of FFVs.
Tim Morse, director of the fleet and surplus services division of the Minnesota Department of Administration, said that more than 1,700 vehicles—of a total of 5,700 light trucks and automobiles—use E85 "whenever it's available" within five miles of a fill-up. From January to September of last year, 12.1 percent of the fuel consumed was E85.
"We've made a basic goal of moving away from fossil fuel dependence," he said. "When they have the opportunity, we ask employees to purchase E85 from retail vendors."
Wisconsin's fleet has roughly the same number of flex-fuel vehicles as Minnesota, and state agencies are under an executive order from the governor to reduce the use of unleaded gas by 20 percent by 2010 and 50 percent by 2015. David Jenkins, who directs market development at the Wisconsin Office of Energy Independence, said that while the drivers are buying E85, "it's only a small part of the ethanol picture" in contrast to E10's success in the state.
A few other positive—and political—signs exist on the horizon for E85. President Barack Obama was a vocal supporter of ethanol during the campaign, and his cabinet includes many politicians with ties to the ethanol industry. Detroit automakers told former President George W. Bush that 50 percent of their production would be FFVs by 2012, the kind of goal they have been known to miss in the past, but the consequences are considerably higher this time. The proposed Biofuels Security Act would offer tax credits to oil companies that add ethanol tanks to at least half of their stations and force automakers to phase out single-fuel vehicles by 2016.
The new administration leaves people like Washington, D.C.-based Renewable Fuels Association spokesman Matt Hartwig optimistic. Obama's group "shares the vision the industry has for itself" of seeing more FFVs being manufactured and a variety of ethanol blends being made available to the nation's legacy fleet of vehicles to "reduce our dependence on foreign oil."
E85 advocates concede it has been a long, arduous journey for E85 to even reach this point, much less make a real dent in the marketplace. "We're dealing with about 100 years of virtual monopoly on fuels for transportation in this country of either gasoline or diesel," according to Moffitt, of the American Lung Association of Minnesota. He and other E85 supporters say the blend was never meant to end energy dependence and clear the air on its own.
"E85 is not a complete solution; it's not a silver bullet. It's more like silver buckshot, I guess," said Moffitt. "It's one of many ways to move away slowly from our complete dependence on petroleum fuels."