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Seed Starting Strategiescomments (9) February 18th, 2009
After New Year's revelry is over and winter's moodiness sets in, spirits sometimes sag, but when those seed catalogs start pouring in, you know spring is on the way. When I receive catalogs in January, I spend hours reading about new and old varieties, taking notes, and making cuts like a judge in a beauty pageant. And beyond the vast selections from catalogs there are seeds shared by friends, relatives, and seed-saving organizations.
What's the best reason for starting your own seeds? Selection! For example, a seed catalog specializing in tomatoes presents a particular challenge for the tomato lover by offering more than 200 varieties. This easily makes tomato seedling selections from any nursery seem like a limited menu indeed.
Another reason for starting seeds is that commercially produced seedlings are grown for many of the same reasons as commercial produce: ease of germination, quick growth, shipping quality, color, and shelf life. When I grow any vegetable, it's for flavor, period. My favorite tomato is called 'Carrot', and even though it's not a heavy producer, I'd trade a dozen 'Better Boys' for one 'Carrot' any day.
Plan to start your seeds indoors so they are at the proper stage of development to set out at the optimum time. For northern gardeners, this is crucial because the growing season is short and good timing increases your production.
For mild-weather gardeners, like me, it can mean getting two or three crops (of corn, for instance) in a season by removing the remnants of a harvested crop and planting three-week-old seedlings in their place. Perfecting this technique requires good timing and seed selection, understanding your climate and soil, and some practice in starting seedlings.
When to start your seedlings
Resist that urge to start everything in January just so you can see something young and green. If you start seed too soon, the plant may languish inside, waiting for settled weather. Check your last date of frost and group your seeds according to starting date. Label your varieties and their starting dates. And remember that some seeds take longer to germinate than others. Here's a rough estimate of the lead time for popular seeds:
Seed, container, starting mix, go!
Your first step is to acquire seeds. If you want to grow plants from your own seeds in the future, be sure to use parent seeds described as open pollinated or heirloom. Seeds from a hybrid, which is the result of crossing two plants, will not produce a plant identical to the hybrid.
Choose seeds of varieties that do well in your area. Ask friends, neighbors, and county extension agents. Buy some tried and true varieties and do some experimenting as well.
|This homemade flat will last through many growing seasons. The screen mesh on the bottom keeps the soil in but allows excess water to pass through.
You can also buy a gadget that compresses soil into blocks or one that molds newspaper into little biodegradable pots. Peat pots tend to restrict the progress of the seedlings' roots; peat pellets work a little better. Just be aware that organic pots dry quickly and need to be watched. My favorite tray is a foil baking dish with holes poked in the bottom, with another one it can slip into to catch excess water. Whatever you use, be sure it's clean and sterilized. Wash recycled containers in a weak solution of laundry bleach to sterilize.
|Seed starting equipment
If your local garden center doesn't have what you need, try the mail-order sources below.
W. Atlee Burpee & Co.
300 Park Avenue
Warminster, PA 18974
Charley's Greenhouse & Garden
17979 State Route 536
Mt. Vernon, WA 98273
Gardener's Supply Company
128 Intervale Rd.
Burlington, VT 05401
Stay away from unsterilized soil, compost, or worm castings until the seedlings are ready for transplanting. If the seedlings must remain in the container for a while, fertilize with a weak solution of fish emulsion or seaweed.
Using a soilless mix lessens the chance of a common seed starting disease called damping off, which rots stems and topples seedlings. The first step in prevention calls for cleaning containers and tools in hot, soapy water. A top layer of perlite will keep moisture away from emerging stems. Some gardeners advocate covering newly sown seeds with plastic to maintain moisture. If you try this method, be careful not to produce a jungle environment because too much moisture and warmth will promote fungal growth. If you spot any mold or fungus, uncover the seedlings immediately.
Successful sprouting
Fill your container with 3 in. to 4 in. of your starting mix, up to about 1⁄2 in. from the top. Moisten thoroughly with warm water; this eliminates the need for top watering immediately after sowing so the seeds won't be displaced.
Next, take a look at the size of the seeds; this will dictate how deep and how far apart to plant the seeds. The three-seed rule applies whether starting seed in a pot or in the ground. Place three seeds in a line, the length of this line is how deep you should plant the seed. For example, plant peas about 1 in. deep; spinach seeds, 1⁄4 in. deep.
Tiny seeds like lettuce and parsley should be broadcast (sprinkled) across the top of the soil or planting medium and then covered ever so lightly. When broadcasting, be sure not to sow too many seeds, or they will be difficult to separate later. The ideal distance between seeds provides enough space so the resulting seedlings and their roots do not touch or intertwine. Basically, the longer you plan to leave the seedlings in their first home, the farther apart the seeds should be sown.
Once you have planted seeds, you must keep the planting medium moist and warm. Place freshly planted containers on a heated seed starting mat, or in a warm spot in the house. Any place the cat likes to hang out will be appropriate, or try the top of the dryer, near a heater, on the gas stove, or on a window sill. I leave my foil container on top of my gas stovetop, where the pan conducts heat from the pilot light.
Individual varieties have different temperature requirements for germination. Some seed packets will furnish this information, but you can figure most will germinate between 60˚ and 80˚F. Seeds germinate at warmer temperatures than those needed by seedlings for growth, so after the sprouts have true leaves, you can move them to a cooler home. Some seeds need light to germinate, so check thpacket for this information, as well.
Remember that warmth can reduce moisture, so check the soil daily. Setting the container in direct sunlight will also dry out the potting medium. Letting the potting mix dry out or allowing the soil temperatures to fluctuate widely will reduce your germination rate. If you must water freshly planted seeds from the top, do so very gently; it's preferable to water from the bottom.
|Using its own nutrient reserves, this seedling emerged and stretched to the light in less than 10 hours.
The key to using lights is positioning the plants at the right distance from the source—nearly touching when the plants are newly emerged, increasing up to 4 in. later. Plants in a sunny window can grow leggy reaching for the sun, so rotate them a quarter turn each day to keep them straight.
Seedlings need room to develop healthy roots and stems. Overcrowding will diminish air circulation and light. Even with the best effort at careful spacing during planting, you may have to pinch out some seedlings. Pinch or use small scissors to nip plants at the soil line; this makes for less root disturbance to remaining seedlings.
If seedlings appear overcrowded and it's not yet time to plant them out, transplant them to larger accommodations. Transplant gently, holding the plant by a leaf to prevent damaging the stems.
|Transplant seedlings after they have at least one set of true leaves. Grasp the seedling by a leaf rather than by its stem to avoid damaging the stem.
Harden off seedlings. The timetable for hardening off plants depends on outdoor temperatures (and on your careful calculation of the lead time required by each plant). Your seedlings should be ready once they have two or three leaves beyond the seed leaves. Gradually introduce tender plants to the garden. Place them in a cold frame or in dappled shade for about five days, and then move them into a sunny location for another five days before transplanting them into their new home.
Lastly, keep records, or at least label seedlings properly. If you have the tenacity to keep a record book, you will learn quickly from both your successes and errors. If keeping a record book is not for you, then use small plastic or wooden stakes and write on them with a permanent marker. You can also write on the outside of plastic pots with gold or silver markers. I like to use wooden stakes and write the variety on one side and the date I started the seedlings on the other. I transplant the stakes along with the seedlings. This is also a simple way to keep track of how many days a plant takes from sowing to harvesting. There is something quite magical about looking at the planting date on a stake when you've harvested a head of cauliflower, and remembering when it was just a tiny seed. Or just a description in a catalog.
|More seed starting information ...
• All About Starting Seeds
• Grow Lettuce from Seed
• Frugal Seed Starting Trays
• Video: Make Pots from Recycled Newspaper
• 10 Seed Starting Tips
by Janie Malloy
February 1998
from issue #13
posted in: seedlings, transplanting
Comments (9)
Posted: 6:11 am on October 26th
Posted: 1:27 am on October 20th
Posted: 5:33 am on August 6th
Posted: 1:34 am on May 28th
Posted: 2:35 am on February 18th
Posted: 1:12 pm on January 18th
Posted: 9:42 am on March 19th
Instead of writing down the side of the label, mark across the top, date first, then variety underneath. That way you don't bury vital info.
A top seed company will trial and sell seed to grow well in all parts of the country. As seed companies buy their seed grown all over the country, it's best to find one that stands behind their seed by testing and retesting for germination before packing, and which clearly labels the seed as to batch and pull date. Seed companies that service their racks on a regular basis will have fresher seed in the racks.
It's best to buy seed where the display room temperature is even, and not humid. Don't buy seed at a store where it's been in a sunny window (faded packets) or near humidity (the paper feels limp)--germination will be half that of properly merchandised seed. Store seed at home in a cool dark room, never the refrigerator--too damp! A hall closet works fine. Generally, it's best to buy freshly dated seed at the start of the seedling season. Better to use it up for fall gardens or trade it, than to store it.
Posted: 12:37 pm on January 19th
Renee's is one of my favorite seed suppliers. Her seeds are tested in a number of different climate zones in California and have done very well for me. I use Renee's Seeds when I give classes to new gardeners. I have confidence in her seeds' performance, and so far, the newbie gardeners are having spectacular results.
On seed starting:
I prefer to moisten the seed starting media before filling the seed trays. The dust is an irritant and should not be inhaled. Damp media doesn't produce the dust that dry media does...
Posted: 10:04 am on January 20th
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Remembering Steve Jobs
I'm still sifting through all of the remembrances and recollections about Steve Jobs since his passing last week, and here's a bit of one that stuck out:
One of Jobs's many gifts was that he knew what to give a shit about. He knew how to focus and prioritize his time and attention.
That would strike me as being true about most successful entrepreneurs and innovators.
This past weekend, I made a trip to the Berkshire mountains in western Massachusetts to take advantage of the long weekend, so I kind of unplugged myself from everything and tried to relax.
Yesterday, the Steve Jobs news really hit me upon waking into a Barnes & Noble, with all of this week's news magazines were on the racks, with several of them featuring Jobs' likeness on their covers.
Steve Jobs RIP
Love him or hate him, Steve Jobs had a vision and passion for his life and changed the world more than he could've imagined.
End of the world?
Probably not, but a NASA satellite is about to come crashing down to earth:
The six-ton satellite circles the Earth on a tilted orbit, and as the planet turns each day, different locations pass underneath. The satellite's orbit on Friday afternoon will not take it over any part of North America, but by Saturday, parts of the United States will again be in its path. […] At least 26 pieces, the largest 330 pounds, are expected to survive the plunge and land along a path 500 miles long.
Not to worry, as it's happened before:
NASA satellites also receive considerably more attention when they come back to Earth than other debris of similar size. About one satellite five metric tons or larger re-enters the atmosphere every year.
For example, on a test flight of its Falcon 9 rocket in June 2010, the Space Exploration Technologies Corporation placed the second stage and a prototype capsule into orbit. That object, heavier than the Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite, came crashing back to Earth two and a half weeks later without causing a media ripple.
And another Steve Jobs has resigned from Apple post
There are many, many people commenting on the resignation of Steve Jobs as CEO of Apple, and not all of it is glowing.
Say what you want about the man, but he resurrected the company from being a laughing-stock in the industry, to one of the largest and most successful companies in the world. Here is one of the more honest assessments of Jobs as I've seen so far:
Steve Jobs could be arrogant and unpleasant, a brutal man a sane person would not want to work for. But the products he created will be his monuments. And so will the memory of how he created those products.
Unlike those folks in Washington who dare not offend their favored constituencies—Republicans unwilling to raise taxes, Tea Party members who praise James Madison's belief in small government but not his belief in checks and balances and compromise, Congressional Democrats unwilling to offend senior citizens or labor, a President unwilling to stick his neck out to endorse the work of the bipartisan budget-balancing commission he appointed—Steve Jobs has been a true leader.
Like Edison, he's been an inventor and a man who has changed our lives.
Sounds like a real leader in a world where we have too few.
Sony will stream NFL's Sunday Ticket to PS3?
Someone just invented an Iron Man-like, palm-mounted laser weapon
Finally, Iron Man lives:
On a rainy weekend last year, Patrick Priebe, a German lab technician and Iron Man fanatic who rewatches the film and its sequel every week, decided to build a compact yet powerful laser inspired by Tony Stark's repulsor-beam weapon. In the U.S., the maximum strength for consumer laser pointers is typically five milliwatts; Priebe's handheld laser is 1,000 milliwatts, enough to instantly blind anyone not wearing special safety glasses.

subset: commoncrawl


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Firstly, if you are interested in OTC stocks like Essity Aktiebolag [Publ], you will be doing yourself a massive favor by joining the Trader HR chat room (the people there are experts at tricky stocks like this), so do that now – we also strongly recommend Microcap Millionaires where you can learn how to profit hugely off lesser known OTC stocks (what you find there is much more interesting than ETTYF, in our view). These recommendations are current as of 2019-12-04. Now onto the news and analysis.
REPORTING FOR 2019-12-04 | BUNDESPREMIERLEAGUE.COM: We have conducted a deep analysis of how Essity Aktiebolag [Publ] (OTCMKTS:ETTYF) has been trading over the last 2 weeks and the past day especially. On its latest session, Essity Aktiebolag [Publ] (OTCMKTS:ETTYF) opened at 31.3812, reaching a high of 31.3812 and a low of 31.3812 before closing at a price of 31.3812. There was a total volume of 62.0.
VOLUME INDICATORS: We saw an accumulation-distribution index of 30.4, an on-balance volume of -31.35, chaikin money flow of 0.06667 and a force index of 0.00097. There was an ease of movement rating of -6e-05, a volume-price trend of 5.41607 and a negative volume index of 1000.0.
VOLATILITY: We noted an average true range of 0.36501, bolinger bands of 31.3812, an upper bollinger band of 31.3812, lower bollinger band of 31.3812, a bollinger high band indicator of 1.0, bollinger low band indicator of 1.0, a central keltner channel of 31.3812, high band keltner channel of 31.3812, low band keltner channel of 31.3812, a high band keltner channel indicator of 1.0 and a low band keltner channel indicator of 1.0. There was a donchian channel high band of 31.3812, a donchian channel low band of 31.3812, a donchian channel high band indicator of 1.0, and a donchian channel low band indicator of 1.0.
TREND: We calculated a Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) of -0.00097, a MACD signal of -0.0004, a MACD difference of -0.00057, a fast Exponential Moving Average (EMA) indicator of 31.3812, a slow Exponential Moving Average (EMA) indicator of 31.3812, an Average Directional Movement Index (ADX) of unknown, an ADX positive of 20.0, an ADX negative of 20.0, a positive Vortex Indicator (VI) of 1.0, a negative VI of 1.0, a trend vortex difference of 0.00213, a trix of 11.89387, a Mass Index (MI) of 4.82408, a Commodity Channel Index (CCI) of -100.0, a Detrended Price Oscillator (DPO) of -4.61457, a KST Oscillator (KST) of 172.39994 and a KST Oscillator (KST Signal) of 172.39994 (leaving a KST difference of -0.25903). We also found an Ichimoku rating of 31.3812, an Ichimoku B rating of 31.3812, a Ichimoku visual trend A of 27.29417, an Ichimoku visual trend B of 28.13975, an Aroon Indicator (AI) up of 4.0 and an AI indicator down of 4.0. That left a difference of -8.0.
MOMENTUM: We found a Relative Strength Index (RSI) of 50.0, a Money Flow Index (MFI) of 100.0, a True Strength Index (TSI) of 100.0, an ultimate oscillator of 100.0, a stochastic oscillator of 50.0, a stochastic oscillator signal of 50.0, a Williams %R rating of -50.0 and an awesome oscillator of -0.01516.
RETURNS: There was a daily return of 17.23999, a daily log return of -0.09947 and a cumulative return of -0.09942.
What the heck does all of this mean? If you are new to technical analysis, the above may be gibberish to you, and that's OK (though we do advise learning these things). The bottom line is that AS OF 2019-12-04 (if you are reading this later, the analysis will be out of date), our analysis of technical indicators for Essity Aktiebolag [Publ] (OTCMKTS:ETTYF) is telling us that this is very slightly bullish. Please comment if you disagree with this conclusion or if you find any errors in the analysis above.
For a more complete analysis, run all of this through the BTMA software. Also, to stay up to date with what is happening on Essity Aktiebolag [Publ], we strongly advise Essity Aktiebolag [Publ] investors to subscribe to MarketBeat.com's daily email newsletter for updates, news and analyst ratings on Essity Aktiebolag [Publ] and any other stocks you want – without this you are trading blind:
DISCLAIMER: We are not registered investment advisers and the above analysis should be taken at face value only. We strongly advise against buying or selling Essity Aktiebolag [Publ] (OTCMKTS:ETTYF) based solely on our analysis above, and are not responsible for any losses that you may incur if you choose make any investment decisions based on the above.
Anthony Rankin
I am the driving force behind BPL and a professional daytrader. I will be providing technical analysis of various stocks on BPL.


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Andalucía, the southernmost region of Spain, is the source of many of the popular images outsiders have of the country: olive groves, rolling hills, bullrings, whitewashed villages, tapas, and flamenco-fueled nightlife. Andalucía has a wide variety of architecture, cuisine, and landscapes, and its rich cultural heritage makes it unique among other Spanish regions. From breathtaking cliffside towns, to learning the ins and outs of sherry-making, to touring immense Moorish palaces, you are sure to fall in love with this region of unparalleled beauty and mystery.
Day 1
Arrive in Granada, the stunning Andalusian city situated at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The last city to fall during the Reconquista, Granada features stunning Moorish architecture, enchanting gardens, and a warmth and hospitality that is difficult to match.
Day 2
Head out on a walking tour of the city, discovering its storied past and diverse cultural heritage. Wind your way through the streets of the Albaicín, the city's medieval Moorish quarter, and take an expert guided tour of the Alhambra, the palace of the last Muslim dynasty in Spain. In the evening, head out on the town for tapas and wine in one of the best tapas cities in all of Spain!
Day 3
Drive to Ronda, a city dramatically perched high above a deep mountain gorge. Stop along the way for lunch in the olive tree-dotted countryside in the heart of Andalucía, and tour and taste at a local winery. Take an evening stroll in Ronda before dinner at a classic restaurant.
Day 4
Travel by rail to the charming hilltop town of Vejer de la Frontera, one of Andalucía's famed pueblos blancos, or white villages, known for its vibrant culinary scene and beautiful whitewashed façades. Spend the evening sampling tapas paired with local libations.
Day 5
Roll your sleeves up in a hands-on cooking class featuring the season's best produce, fish, and meats, and take home some classic Andalusian recipes sure to impress your friends at home. This evening, relax at one of the village's top spots for traditional cuisine and great wine.
Day 6
Head out from Vejer de la Frontera to Jerez, a city known for sherry, flamenco, horses, and Grand Prix motorcycles. Tour a historic sherry winery, and enjoy a tasting of the world-famous fortified wines. Here in Jerez, you'll also learn about the incredible Spanish equestrian art that has been perfected over centuries through careful breeding and rigorous training. Arrive in Seville in time to see a flamenco performance, a distinctly Andalusian art combining music, song, dance, and gorgeous traditional dress.
Day 7
Take a guided walk through Sevilla, the capital city of Andalucía. Visit the magnificent Alcazár palace and gardens, a stunning example of mudéjar architecture originally constructed for Moorish royalty. Marvel at the Santa María de la Sede Cathedral, the largest cathedral in the world and the final resting place of Christopher Columbus.
Day 8
Take a trip out of the city for a day of exploring the wondrous "Grotto of Marvels," learning traditional countryside cooking, and perhaps visit a museum dedicated exclusively to the wonders of jamón ibérico de bellota, the world-famous acorn-fed Iberian ham.
Day 9
For your last day, you'll visit the marvelous city of Córdoba, whose sprawling historic quarter is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tour the historic synagogue built in 1315, and take a special night-time tour of the amazing Great Mosque of Cordoba, which has been a Catholic cathedral since 1236.
Day 10
Say farewell to your guide and head on to your next destination!


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With regard to Short Sales -- TIME IS MONEY!
Stop and bookmark! We all can benefit from this post! What awesome effort was expended in giving us a set of guidelines for a short sale/foreclosure situation. Wouldn't it be wonderful if the banks would use these concise guidelines..the process might actually work! Tish is right by using these positive, aggressive steps a short sale might really come to close. Tish is so right.."Time is Money!"
With regard to Short Sales -- TIME IS MONEY!
In an effort to ensure the Short Sale Process actually works as intended, the Banking Industry would be best served by establishing a set of uniform guidelines which were enforceable. I have a set of such "guidelines" which I provide at the first intimation there may be a short sale/foreclosure situation.
Positive, aggressive steps to a faster Short Sale:
1. Immediately contact the Loss Mitigation Department for your Mortgage Lenders. Secure the full name and direct phone number of your contact and keep a notebook handy so that you can record any and all information -- make certain it's all DATED. Explain your hardship and ask exactly what information they require be included in the package. This is where things first get tricky: It's tough, if not impossible to reach a human who has any "authority" to share information. When asked what is required in the package, a quick VERBAL list may be provided. Well, that's not good on any level -- the Mortgagee is already upset beyond belief and needs to speak with someone who can actually give real answers and direction. This is a tough call to make -- let's respond with a bit of compassion and understanding. You're trying to do the right thing, you're not the enemy. Let's treat this like any other business call -- professionally and responsively! Let's require a one-on-one conversation within ONE BUSINESS DAY!!!
2. Interview Real Estate Agents with the express intent of finding one who is well-versed in the Short Sale/Foreclosure process. Ask your Agent to prepare a Comparative Market Analysis of your property with focus on condition and marketability. Make certain he/she includes photos of the comparable properties as well as your subject property. Please make certain your Real Estate Agent is experienced in Short Sales AND has the time necessary to actively, aggressively pursue your transaction. This is where the use of an Agent who has been required to go through an approved short sale training class could shorten the process, simply by eliminating the learning curve. Knowing and understanding the use of a thorough CMA, complete with pictures of comps together with pictures of the subject property which reflect the true condition are paramount. This can shorten the process because any major defects can be assessed upfront, with financial allowances addressed.
3. Get your hardship package together as quickly as possible, making several full copies. I strongly recommend sending the packets via fax, regular mail and Federal Express -- Grab your notebook and write down the date each was sent and the manner in which it was sent. MAKE CERTAIN YOU RETAIN AN EXTRA COPY, as you will be required to send this information more than once. What in the world is a hardship letter? Did you know that most people are NOT good letter writers? Stress? What if I don't say the "right" thing? There's no science to this and every bank pretty much wants to know the same thing -- how about a suggested form letter with options. This is certainly much easier and would move this portion along much quicker! Oh, yeah -- go ahead and give the applicant that little-known hint that you REQUIRE the loan number and the name of the Mortgagee be written at the top right portion of every single page, otherwise it will be thrown in the trash and you HAVE to start the whole thing all over again . . .
4. Once you have signed your Listing Agreement with your Real Estate Professional, have him/her send a copy of the Agreement directly to your Contact Person in the Loss Mitigation Department -- make certain you do the same along with a cover letter giving them permission to speak with your Real Estate Agent. Now where was that to be sent again? Fax? E-mail? WHAT? I can only fax to that great Community Fax in the sky? I can't scan and e-mail you a much better copy of everything which would: 1. Be more legible; 2. Be much faster; 3. Go directly to the assigned Mitigator; 4. Be able to be tracked -- avoid lost documents -- avoid all those busy fax machines, with perhaps accidentally getting picked-up by a different Mitigator and stuck inside another file by mistake? This step alone would save weeks, if not months of lost time!!!
5. Maintain weekly contact with the Loss Mitigation Contact and record every date and conversation in your notebook. Insist your Real Estate Agent do the same. This can be almost impossible, because so many financial institutions won't actually TALK with you until they have the time and then . . . well, good luck with that. The Bank MUST assign each file immediately, on the initial call. This Contact Person MUST be in regular contact with the Mortgagee and MUST document the contact via dates, times and subject discussed. Please, please refrain from telling us there is no way to do this -- hire a qualified and capable supervisor to monitor your employees. Trust me, this can be done and the hours and weeks this would save -- I can hear the "cha ching" now.
6. Provide all the paperwork they request immediately (keeping a copy for yourself and writing in your notebook). BE THE SQUEAKY WHEEL. Again, because the banks have not yet thought of a way to get this process running smoothly, it falls on you to help them do their job. Seriously, this one rests squarely on the financial institutions -- TIME IS MONEY.
7. Once you have reached an Agreement of Sale, you'll need to immediately send a copy of the Agreement just as in #4 above. Have your Real Estate Agent do the same thing. Please, make certain you BOTH send the documents w/proof of delivery and ensure you BOTH call every single week and actually speak with your Contact. I'm afraid I'm beating a dead horse here, but it has to be done . . . Unless the banking industry decides to quit hiding behind all the delaying tactics and money wasting, you'll have to repeat this several tiimes. Did I mention TIME IS MONEY?
The bottom line: If you want to shorten the time it will take to get your Short Sale to the table: Do your paperwork promptly, supply all documents immediately and get your Real Estate Agent on the same page -- be the Squeaky Wheel -- loudly and frequently. Gosh, this is a sad state of affairs. Did I mention that if the banking industry would step up to the plate, this could be quickly and efficiently corrected? After all, with regard to Short Sales -- TIME IS MONEY!
Our team: Melissa McKinney,Joni Staples,Debra Walsh,Leah Stern,Kim Farrell & Tish Lloyd
Copyright © 2010 - 2011 All Rights Reserved
Tish Lloyd, REALTOR®
NC Real Estate Lic. 269076
Prudential Laney Real Estate
527 Causeway Drive
Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480910.547.1446
Everything's better at the beach . . .


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There's a new Gas in Town
A new gas is helping keep Australians cool without adding significantly to global warming...Read more
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We also accept Fleetcard.
A new gas is helping keep Australians cool without adding significantly to global warming...Read more


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When a rental chair has a name like 'Swan' in the title, then you know you're getting something special!
We think this seating range is perfectly named, and is reflected wonderfully in the product's stunning design. The Swan chair quickly became an iconic item following its launch, and our Swan style chair rental range now brings affordable style to all! The 1950s was a time for change in many different countries, and even today this decade influences how we style our homes, offices and venues. People look to this era for tips on bringing a sense of retro glam and sophistication to locations, and the Swan style chair is a perfect example of 50s chic.
Designed for a Copenhagen hotel in 1958, the Swan chair was created by a manufacturer who made his name launching iconic seating that is still popular today, like the Egg chair. Originally made for guests of the hotel, both these chairs are now very popular in locations where premium quality seating is required. One of the most stand-out features of our Swan style chair range, is of course its design. It encapsulates all the original grace and elegance that the first few seats of this type offered.
The smooth look is classy, stylish and brings a chic, retro vibe to locations. The smart black finish of this chair hire item also gives it a professional vibe making this product perfect for many different locations.
They are a popular choice for corporations that want to offer top quality and exceptionally stylish seating to visitors, clients and colleagues. You can install them in many different locations, such as receptions when you want to make a great first impression, meeting rooms where comfort and smart seating is needed, networking areas, boardrooms, conferences areas and lounges.
In addition to being the perfect classy corporate chair, the elegant curved design of our black Swan style chairs mean they're also chosen for other events and locations, including exhibitions, galleries, VIP areas, bars, cafes and of course hotels too!
Another fantastic benefit to our Swan style chair range, is that they are very comfortable and stable. The cushioned seat and back, as well as the chrome four-star base mean it's not only great looking, but also very practical too. We also stock white Swan style chairs, and a brilliant range of modern and ultra cool products with a black or white finish, including our corbusier sofas, Barcelona chairs and bistro tables too.
|18.00 kg
|900 mm
|660 mm
|660 mm
|Seat Depth
|450 mm
Lower tables are a great match for Swan chairs, such as our bistro tables and coffee table.
Yes. All our products are put together by us. Some items require straightforward set up, such as our folding chairs and tables, and when you need assistance with this just choose our installation option.
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I admit. I have a problem. I've already told you how obsessed I am with them! And in my defense I went to look at several other stores but their selections sucked, so I had to return twice (ok, maybe 3 times) to get all her back-to-school clothes. Also a lot of stuff was on sale and on one of the trips I got to use the Friends & Family discount which saved me $160!!!
See! It's not that bad...just don't let my husband see the bill. ;)


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The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
What does Peter admire about Anne?
Act 2 scene 1
Act 2 scene 1
I could tell you from the book but I'm not sure if the play version is different. You seem to be referring to the play.Give me a little while to find the script and I'll get back to you.
Peter is very fond of Anne. We get the sense he is developing romantic love for her.
Peter: " I think you're just fine . . . What I want to say . . . if it wasn't for you around here, I don't know. What I mean . . . "
Peter admires Anne's smile and loves the dimples which she gets on her cheeks while she laughs. So, he says to her " Do laugh, Anne " very often.


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We develop 2D and 3D games ranging from platform genre to Adventure, RPG, Shooter, Strategy and so on. With 40 games already available, we have a catalogue of our property and a further range of video games developed for third parties.
Imagimotion also develops games and applications for mobile phones with J2ME, iOs, Android and Windows Mobile technology.
RPG, puzzle, shooter, adventure, racing, platform and many others: thanks to a set of engines developed by our company, the implementation of games is fast, efficient and with a high level of customization.
Imagimotion also is an authorized developer for the following platforms:
- Wii/WiiU
- PSP Minis
- XBox 360


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The Law Shop is now closed. Please click here to find out more.
The Law Shop is now closed. Please click here to find out more.
Search our Legal Questions and Answers
Q: My employee decided to visit his country on holiday without his annual leave being authorised. He came back from holiday and I gave him certain shifts to which he did not turn up or attend. I sent letters and my employee did not respond. He then arrived at the office saying he will not be returning to work but would like his accrued annual leave and a p45 form. I gave him the p45 form and attempted to pay him his annual leave, deducting the training payment as it states in the rules of contract that, if the employee has less than a year's service, the work may obtain money back spent on training. My employee took the p45 form but refused the pay stating "I will see you in court". What should I do about this situation?
A: It would be best to write to your employee stating "Further to your resignation with immediate effect on [date], please find enclosed a cheque payment for your accrued annual leave, taking into account the deductions for training payments as per your contract". Enclose a copy of the contract terms in the letter. It would be wise to send this by recorded delivery. Await a response from your employee as there may be the possibility you may receive tribunal papers in dispute. If this is case, you may wish to seek further advice from a specialist employment solicitor.
An employee is on long term sick and she does not earn enough for statutory sick pay. She has also not submitted an up to date sick note and I believe she might be claiming other types of benefit. What should I do?read more
I sold a bike to a customer who paid in full seven weeks ago. They have since changed their mind and are looking for their money back. There is nothing wrong with the bike. What can I do?read more
An employee has had two tattoos on both arms and has now dyed their hair an inappropriate colour. I have received some complaints about their appearance. What can I do?read more


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as i have stated before, i simply love opera on my nokia 3650, and i think it makes the device so much more usable for wireless browsing. michelle sent me an e-mail announcing that kyocera and opera software asa will be launching the ah-k3001v mobile phone in japan in mid-may. this is the first japanese handset to support opera, and it will give users the full web browsing experience that many of us with opera have had for a while. another kyocera handset with opera was previously announced for the chinese market as well. mobile phones are extremely popular in japan, and i am sure that users will love the opera mobile experience. check out the press release for all the info.
user comments 3 comment(s)
kwc sucks – by jerk
|how much do you pay? (2:40pm est fri apr 23 2004)
i remember you saying you had attws with their rate lans you coudl use opera for $100+ a month. – by hh
|thanks (11:40am est sat jan 07 2006)
this is an excellent site thanks for the information! – by andy


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- Details
- Published on Monday, 11 September 2017 23:48
Zao Mountains, Japan, debut as world class field for Skyrunning
142 Skyrunners enjoyed running through rocky ridges connecting Mt. Jizo, Mt. Kumano, and crater lake "Okama". September 10, Sunday, was the second day of Zao Skyrunning, Asian Skyrunning Championships 2017. 15 runners from foreign countries and dozens of elite runners in Japan meet up in the village of Zao Onsen to run Zao Skyrace 28k, 28km in distance with 2,300mD+ vertical gain. As a result of fierce competition in stacked fields, Japan's Ruy Ueda and Takako Takamura relish their victories in male and female race respectively. Although most of spots on podium are taken by hosting country Japan, South Korea's Sooji Park claimed her Bronze medal finally. Asian Championships will turn to Hong Kong in December, for Sky Ultra discipline.
Like Saturday, it was fine, sunny on Sunday in Zao. Zao Skyrace 28k starts with eight kilometer long and gradually inclining ski slope with 1,000mD+ vertical gain. Then runners run rocky terrain around Mt. Jizo (1758m), Mt. Kumano (1841m) and ridge along crater lake. Only runners qualified by finishing designated races can register this demanding Zao Skyrace 28k. Group of six male runners lead the race in early kilometers. After long downhill in the middle, Ruy Ueda and Satoshi Kato were chasing head to head at 15km point. On the ascent back to Mt. Jizo, Ueda started to push harder, and hs lead to Kato was 3 minutes and 45 seconds at 21km point. Kato tried to catch Ueda in the last seven kilometer downhill, but Ruy Ueda held decent lead to the end. Ueda finished at Zao Onsen in 2 hours 42 minutes and 41 seconds, and won Asian Championships. Runner-up was Satoshi Kato, 1 minute and 48 seconds behind.
Male champion Ruy Ueda runs, looking down crater lake. Photo © Sho Fujimaki / ZAO Skyrunning
Ueda, who came back from Chamonix lastweek, says "It was not easy race for me, just a week after racing OCC 56km. However, Zao is the most important event this year in Japan. I am happy to stand on podium as a result of all effort". Yoshihito Kondo takes third place today.
No woman can not challenge female Asian Skyrunning Champion, Takako Takamura, today. She kept calm and quiet for whole 28km in mountains, and finished at Zao Onsen in 3 hours 15 minutes and 15 seconds. This summer, Takamura was successful with her third place in Skyrace Comapedrosa, a race of Skyrunner World Series. She says, "Zao was my key event of the year, as well as Comapedrosa.
Takako Takamura leads women's race toward her win. Photo © Sho Fujimaki / ZAO Skyrunning
All my experience there helped me to push hard today". Yukari Hoshino, the champion of Skyrunning Japan Championships, Utsukushigahara 80k, in July, is the runner-up today with 3 hours 44 minutes and 50 seconds. The third place winner was Sooji Park from South Korea. She is the only and honorable athlete who takes spot on podium in this
Asian Championships from other than Japan.
The results of other international athletes follows. In men's race, 18th was Marcelino Palitog Sana-oy (PHI), 28th Chou Ching (TWN), 39th Heeseong Noh (KOR). In women's race, 7th was Yin-Hung Tsang (CHN-HK), 10th Eunhye Jung (KOR), 11th Yeji Jeong (KOR).
Still in recovery state after summit Mt. Everest, Ada Yin-Hung Tsang from China National Team finished the race strong and ranked overall female 7th at 28km Zao Skyrace on Sept 10 in Japan. She will also join MSIG Lantau 50 - Skyrunning Asian Championship Ultra Skymarathon on Dec 3. "I could feel my body warming up at the first half of the race and after a technical uphill and reaching the top, running pass by Five Color Pond / crater lake, I started to pick up the speed and pass some runners," she said. Shocked by Japan Skyrunners' speed on uphill, she shared: "The uphill trails in Japan are mainly natural rocky trails and in comparison we are more used to Hong Kong's steps. Seeing Japanese runners running non-stop on the natural hills motivates me to train more and focus more on my calves' muscles."
Ada, Yin-Hung Tsang from China National Team ranked overall female 7th at Zao Skyrace
Michael Maddes, director of China Skyrunning Association, looked back this weekend. "Zao Skyrunning showed us amazing mountains to run in Japan, and all the hospitality of organization team and local volunteers made this event great." he said.
2017 Asian Skyrunning Championships will move on to Hong Kong for final leg, and MSIG Lantau 50 is going to be the Championship of Sky Ultra category on December 3rd.
Result, Asian Skyrunning Championships 2017 - Zao Skyrace 28k
1. Ruy Ueda (JPN) 2:42:41
2. Satoshi Kato (JPN) 2:44:29
3. Yoshihito Kondo (JPN) 2:50:45
4. Yuichi Miura (JPN) 2:50:57
5. Yamato Yoshino (JPN) 2:51:17
1. Takako Takamura (JPN) 3:15:15
2. Yukari Hoshino (JPN) 3:44:50
3. Sooji Park (KOR) 3:49:46
4. Sayuri Orito (JPN) 3:58:49
5. Eri Kuwabara (JPN) 4:01:44
Asian Championships
September 9 – Zao Vertical Race, Yamagata, Japan
September 10 – Zao SkyRace®, Yamagata, Japan
December 3 – MSIG Lantau 50, Hong Kong


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Training Products
Why AudioSolutionz?
Free Resources
Almost all of us know how to be managers. But being a leader is way different. And as a leader, overseeing work performance is one of your most challenging yet important responsibilities. HR personnel, managers, supervisors should analyze the problem and determine cause and work to collaborate with their employees and arrive at a 'win-win' solution. The irony lies in the fact that whether it is an attitude problem, an office gossip, unhygienic employee, bully or a procrastinator – you have to get the work done!
This conference by expert speaker Carol Hacker is designed to share various tips and techniques to handle 12 very difficult conversations that leaders often face. Learn how to confidently discuss behavior and performance problems quickly before they get out of control. Also, know how to address various challenging problems related to employees without alienating them. You will walk away with loads of practical information which can be immediately put to work.
Training Objective:
Who Should Attend
Ask a question at the Q&A session following the live event and get advice unique to your situation, directly from our expert speaker.
Carol Hacker
Carol Hacker is the former director of human resources for the North American division of a European manufacturer, employee relations manager for the Miller Brewing Company, and County Office Director for the U.S. Department of Labor. Headquartered in Atlanta, Carol has been the president and CEO of Hacker & Associates... More info


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Several months ago a coworker clued me in to a craigslist walnut entry. We went and checked it out and I decided to buy two of the 5 boards. With jigsaw and bandsaw I converted two large raw walnut boards to pieces sized for the various components of the Walnut Hallway Table I'll build. I left everything in the original 8/4 thickness and stickered them for a couple weeks until they settle into their new sizes.
I set up saw horses and rollers to support the boards to cut to length. The wider board will supply a bookmatched top and side rails, the other board will supply legs and aprons.
Balmy 68 degree outdoor work in January!
Top & Aprons
I used a 1/4 inch strip of leftover plywood to screw to the board as a straightedge to run through the bandsaw. Then I trimmed the other edge from the first (since everything is cut oversized.) There's also a pile of small pieces suitable for small turning projects. If my job withstands this year I'll get a lathe for Christmas. (The Jet 1220 sounds like a good beginner lathe.)
Stickered Walnut set to season for a few days.
-- Anybody can become a woodworker, but only a Craftsmen can hide his mistakes!


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Announcements, News
2018 Chinese New Year Shipping Break
The lunar calendar new year is fast approaching and the workers of China are about to enjoy their biggest holiday and a hard earned vacation! This means that white2tea will be on a shipping break from Feb 2nd through Feb 23rd to coincide with the national holiday.
In order to receive your tea before the long break, order now! Orders received during the break will have to wait until postal service resumes after the holiday. The last orders we can ship must be received at midnight PST on Feb 2nd.
Happy Chinese New Year!


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Natural beauty Dianna Agron, who plays evil cheerleader Quinn Fabray on the hit show "Glee," doesn't need a stitch of makeup to look fabulous. Which is why her character on the show only wears the basics: a little bit of mascara, pale pink lipgloss, and peachy pink blush.
The look she goes for may be simple, but it looks great for wearing on the everyday and also takes less than five minutes to do, so it works for gals on the go. Watch this makeup tutorial to learn how to look just like Fabray.
Products Used:
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion
120 Pro Palette
Benefit Eye Bright Pencil
Benefit BadGal Eyeliner in Black
Maybelline 'The Falsies' Mascara in Black
The Color Workshop Palette


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Long repeats as winner of Ponderosa Ridge Run
STATELINE, Nev. – Brett Long of Carson City defended his title at the 38th annual Ponderosa Ridge Run on Saturday.
Long, 34, a former standout runner at Hug High School in Reno and at Southern Oregon University, completed the 9.5-mile trail run from Spooner Summit to Kingsbury in 1 hour, 15 minutes, 32 seconds. His time represented an improvement of more than five minutes from last year.
Minden's Derrik Jenkins, 21, placed second in 1:20:41. Jenkins is a 2008 Douglas High School graduate who now attends Brigham Young University.
Rounding out the top five were Kevin Peterson of Reno in 1:29:36, Robin DeSoto of Stateline in 1:32:21 and John Trent in 1:34:05. DeSoto and Trent were the first two finishers in the masters division for runners 40 and over. Trent was a finisher at the recent Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run from Squaw Valley to Auburn, Calif.
Karley Martinez, 16, of South Lake Tahoe was the first woman and first junior (18 and under) to finish. She ran 1:41:32 and was the ninth finisher overall.
South Lake Tahoe's Elmer Sanborn, 75 and the oldest participant in the history of the race, finished in 2:42:05, two minutes faster than his time a year ago. Minden's Frank Perry, 73, finished in 2:59:23, one minute faster than his time a year ago.
No awards are presented for winners in the race, but all finishers receive "Survivor" ribbons. The race course features an uphill climb over most of the first four miles and tops out at an altitude of nearly 9,000 feet.
– Dave Price is a reporter at the Lahontan Valley News.


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Many cracks need to be properly glued, and cleated on the inside.
Here's an old German fiddle, about 100 years old. The inside of the top has been smoothed out, bass bar replaced, and bushings put into peg holes. This will also get a new fingerboard..
*Cleaning and polishing *Fingerboard planing and replacement
*String installation *Peg fitting and replacement
*Soundpost setting and replacement *Peg hole bushings
*Bridge adjustment and replacement *Internal repairs, including bassbar work
*Nut adjustment and replacement *Varnish touch-up
*Crack and seam repairs *Neck resetting
*Bow rehairing and minor repairs
I will work with you to determine how much work needs to be done to bring your instrument into playable condition and present you with an estimate for the work. My prices should be competitive to, or lower than many other shops.
Welcome to Wall Independent. We're a small independent shop, specializing in violins and violas. We are also the manufacturer of Luthier Lights (tm). Have fun browsing around our newly updated website.
Cash and checks accepted. Credit cards accepted through Paypal.
So, you've got this old fiddle that you found in the attic
What will it take to get it into nice playing condition? That will depend on what repairs and restorations need to be done. In the best cases, it might just need a good cleaning and some new strings. Old "attic" violins in this condition are a minority. Most will need at least some repairs and adjustment. Most commonly, I see instruments with some open glue joints, worn out pegs, cracks, worn finger boards, and poorly fitted bridges. In many cases, repairing cracks will require opening up the body. In some cases, the cost of the repairs can exceed the value of the instrument. In some cases, I can use slightly non-traditional repairs to "salvage" these instruments at a slightly lower cost.
Let's take a look at some repairs.
Crack repair- This instrument had extensive cracks in the belly. Part of this was caused by extreme thinness in the lower part. This picture shows the cleating that was necessary to repair the cracks. The linen patches in the thin areas will prevent further cracking without excessively stiffening the area.
Pegbox bushing- This is a fairly common repair. As the pegs are used, there is some wear and enlargement of the holes. When it gets to the point where the holes are too large to fit new pegs, bushings are in order. Shown here are spiral bushings. These are very strong, and less intrusive than full bushings. These are also used to help repair some pegbox cracks.
Bass bar replacement. – Not commonly done, but in the picture shown, it was a necessary part of a crack repair right at the bass bar.
Bridge replacement- Necessary in the case of any neck angle change, or if the bridge gets broken. Neck angles can shift as instruments age, or be the result of repairs. Fingerboard replacement will also require a new bridge. Very inexpensive instruments are often not set up well, and may require bridge replacement or adjustment.
Here's an example of a repaired crack under the bass bar, which required replacement of the bass bar.


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Latest Episodes
Your Say
I am absolutely loving how all the old characters are coming back. It adds to the drama ! Keep up the good work.
I love this episode on community efforts ( #293) to fix fences. That it was initiated by young people is quite nice. I wonder if I can use this for outdoor listening?
Season 5 Episode 336
in Season Five/


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Five Banco Chambers' barristers featured in Doyles Guide to competition law barristers
The 2017 Doyle's Guide to Australia's best competition law barristers featured five barristers from Banco Chambers, comprising three Senior Counsel and two junior barristers. The Banco Chambers' barristers featured were:
Senior Counsel
- Peter Brereton SC
- Cameron Moore SC (listed in the preeminent category)
- Ruth Higgins SC
Junior Counsel
Banco Chambers' competition law barristers are sought after for advisory, trial, and appellate work in competition law matters by some of Australia's leading companies, as well as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. Our members' recent significant appearance work includes the Full Federal Court appeal from the Australian Competition Tribunal's decision in relation to Tabcorp's merger with the Tatts Group, the Full Federal Court appeal from the Australian Competition Tribunal's decision to set aside the NSW and ACT electricity and gas distribution network revenue determinations, and Air New Zealand & P T Garuda v ACCC High Court appeal in relation to cartel conduct.


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Board of Directors
Pat Sekel
Dr. Pat Sekel is a speech pathologist, academic language therapist, educator, avid reader, and life-long learner. She recently moved to the Daytona Beach area from Austin, TX, where she retired as the Section 504/Dyslexia Director with a local school district and Graduate Reading Professor at Concordia University. Since moving to Florida, she has been tutoring students and continues working with parents and school districts nationwide. As a lifetime member [and Orton Oak] of The International Dyslexia Association, Pat is committed to the organization and its mission. Nationally, she has served as Chair of the National Nominating Committee, Secretary of Branch Council, and facilitated several years of the Public School Administrators' Symposium at The IDA annual conferences. Currently, Pat is a reviewer of proposals for annual IDA conferences, and has been a team member and Chair for The IDA's national accreditation of training centers and universities. She also continues to be an invited speaker at local, state, and national conferences.
At a local and state level, Pat has served on the Austin Area Branch of IDA as board member and President for three terms. She worked on the Governor's Committee [George W. Bush] revamping the instruction and competency testing of pre-service teachers in the area of written language, worked within her professional organizations to see the passage of the Texas State Dyslexia law and the state licensing of Dyslexia Therapists. She also served as a Master Trainer for the Texas First Grade Reading Initiative and reader of literacy grant proposals statewide. While completing her doctorate in Reading at The University of Texas at Austin, she was Executive Director of the Scottish Rite Learning Center, where she led the teacher training to national accreditation through ALTA and IMSLEC. She also enjoyed serving as Head of School for Rawson-Saunders School for Dyslexic Children where she established a teacher training center. During her career, Pat has been a national board member and Secretary of the Academic Language Therapy Association, and currently serves on the Council of Educators for Students with Disabilities [CESD] national board. She authored The New Herman Method, and has served as editor for numerous scholarly publications. Dr. Sekel was honored to be one of the Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling [LETRS] elite national trainers.
At home, Pat enjoys relaxing with her three dogs [the "grrls"], exploring Florida with her husband of over 40 years, tutoring students, and being reunited with her childhood best friend. She is excited about the pending Florida state dyslexia law, working with other dedicated professionals, and looks forward to the next chapter of life in the Sunshine State.
Grizel Arencibia
Vice President
Dr. Grizel Arencibia graduated from Florida International University summa cum laude in Education, earned her Master of Science in Reading Education from Barry University, and her Doctoral Degree in Education from Nova Southeastern University.
Dr. Arencibia began her career as a classroom teacher and reading specialist. She was the Director of Program Development and Innovation for Take Stock in Children, a non-profit organization in Florida that provides opportunities for students to improve their lives through education. In her role, she directed the development and implementation of program standards and materials for enhanced state-wide student/mentor grade specific curriculum and college transition. With a broad scope of knowledge and experience, she founded her own private practice specializing in remediating reading difficulties and language-related learning challenges. As an independent educational consultant, she assisted students with their preparation and successful transition into colleges and universities. Currently, she is the Middle School Division Director at McGlannan School, an accredited, research-based private school that remediates academics impacted by dyslexia and related language-based learning difficulties through an evidence-based, structured, multi-sensory instructional approach.
Charlotte Chase
Charlotte Chase brings dynamic energy and expertise to our shared mission to serve Floridians whose lives are impacted by dyslexia until everyone can read by serving as our Registrar at our conferences and educational events. Charlotte is a Certified
Dyslexia Practitioner and the Director of Student Services for Green Apple School Management where her leadership responsibilities revolve around the mission to serve students with disabilities, including dyslexia.
Charlotte's enthusiasm is not limited to her work as an educator. She loves all things Disney, so that she describes herself as a "Disney fanatic" while her husband, Brian, is a die-hard Gator fan. They and their children enjoy frequent weekend trips to the various Disney attractions where there is always magic and fun to be enjoyed by all.
Frank McKeown
Frank McKeown is passionate about helping children with dyslexia and their families. He earned a B.A. from Florida State University in English, an M.A. from Carnegie Mellon University in English, and an M.A. from American University in anthropology, with an emphasis in linguistics. He is a member of the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators at the Associate level. In addition to private tutoring, Frank has served as the director of two privately owned learning centers, and a non-profit learning center for children with learning differences and developmental delays in Palm Beach Gardens.
Through his private practice in Tallahassee, he provides reading, writing and mathematics instruction to students with learning differences. In July 2016, Frank became the founding Director of the newly opened Center for Learning at Maclay School, a private, independent college preparatory school in Tallahassee which is committed to meeting the needs of all learners. The Center provides a classroom supports, a separate skills-based program, tutorial instruction, consultation with parents and classroom teachers, review of records or assessments, and coordination with other service providers.
When he is not working, Frank enjoys gardening and vacationing with his family.
Judith Cohen
Dr. Judith Cohen is currently is the Director, Office of Clinical Experiences, College of Education, Florida International University (FIU), Miami, Florida. She is an active faculty member in the College of Education, Dept. of Teaching & Learning, Special Education Program where she teaches the course: Literacy in Special Education. Judith holds a position of advisory board member with IDA-FL. Previously she was a classroom teacher and clinician at the McGlannan School for 20+ years, Educational consultant and author for Wright Group/McGraw-Hill and was in private practice where she conducted evaluations and remediation of students with learning difficulties. She is an accomplished author and has presented at numerous conferences and professional development workshops, both locally and nationally. Selected Publications:
- Cohen, E. J., & Brady, M. P. (2011). Acquisition and generalization of word decoding in students with reading disabilities using vowel pattern analysis and children's literature. Education and Treatment of Children, 34, (1), 81-113.
- Cheyney, W.J., & Cohen, E. J. (2007). The Wright Skills Program: Grades PreK – 3. Chicago, IL: Wright Group / McGraw-Hill.
- Cohen, E. J. (2002). Fast Track Reading, Phonics Component. Chicago, IL: Wright Group / McGraw-Hill.
- Cheyney, W. J., & Cohen, E. J. (1999). Focus on phonics: Assessment and instruction. Bothell, WA: The Wright Group.
Colleen Crooms
Colleen Crooms is a licensed psychologist practicing in the Clearwater/Tampa Bay area with Katie Merricks Counseling, LLC. Colleen completed her doctoral degree in School Psychology from Oklahoma State University. She also holds a Master's degree in Educational Psychology: School Psychometrics. She has worked in private practice settings for the last six years in North Florida/South Georgia before she relocated to Clearwater. As a private practice psychologist, Colleen specializes in the evaluation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders. These include Intellectual Disabilities, Learning Disorders, Attention Disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Colleen is passionate about the assessment process as well as differentiating diagnoses in order to guide the most appropriate treatment. While at Oklahoma State University, she was member on several research teams to advance the knowledge on academic and behavioral interventions in the classroom. She joined the International Dyslexia Association, Florida Branch, in order to bring awareness of Dyslexia to other professionals as well as school communities. In addition to providing comprehensive evaluations, Colleen provides empirically supported treatment, school consultation, and/or service coordination.
Amy Diaz
Amy Diaz has devoted her professional career to appropriately educating students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. She received her Bachelor of Science in Special Education (with a focus on specific learning disabilities) and Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction from Florida International University. Since 1998, she has worked at McGlannan School, a specialized, research-based school which utilizes a structured, multisensory approach to remediate academics adversely impacted by dyslexia and related language-based learning challenges. Throughout the years, she has had many roles at McGlannan including classroom reading and math teacher, reading clinician, Assistant Director of the Reading Clinic, Division Director of the 3rd and 4th grade students, and Admissions Committee member. In Fall 2019, Amy began a new role at McGlannan as the Director of Admissions where she carefully guides prospective families through the often challenging process of diagnosis and appropriate school placement. She also enjoys organizing and leading the Experience Dyslexia®- A Learning Disabilities Simulation workshop as a part of McGlannan's outreach program to further educate the local community about dyslexia. It is Amy's hope that through IDA-FL she can make an even greater impact on dyslexia awareness and education in Florida and beyond.
Gannon Hunt
Despite being diagnosed with Dyslexia, Auditory Processing Disorder and Attention Deficit Disorder as a child, Gannon Hunt has become an experienced interior designer and accredited staging professional working with nationally renowned institutions like Christie's Auction House in New York, Architectural Digest and Veranda Magazine. Hunt, a native Texan who has lived in North Florida/South Georgia for the past 16 years with her son, Beau, has also earned her Masters Degree in Social Work from Florida State University, Bachelor's in Art History from Sweet Briar College in Virginia and graduated from the Brooks School in Andover, MA.
Hunt's passion for educating the community about Dyslexia stems from her own experience with the stigma attached to learning challenges before educational programs were readily available to children like her. She often felt 'stupid' and was told she was just being 'lazy.' Like many children growing up with Dyslexia, she learned to manipulate the system by using her intelligence to get by and realized that when she studied she would get straight C's and when she didn't study still got straight C's. Her lack of support with her learning challenges began to take its toll and she started to 'hate school.' Hunt's personal experience, and that of her son's struggle with Dyslexia, fuels her passion to ensure that no child ever has to feel the way she did growing up. Her son has become the poster child for embracing his learning challenges and although he must work twice as hard as other students, he makes all A's and B's. Hunt currently serves on the Board of Directors of Boys Town North Florida and volunteers at the Maclay School. In her free time, you will find Hunt traveling with family and friends, cheering her son at the ballpark, competing at World Food and BBQ Championships with her boyfriend or spending time outdoors hunting and fishing.
Kirstina Ordetx
Dr. Kirstina Ordetx holds a doctorate in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in pediatric neurology. Dr. Ordetx is an educational specialist with over 25 years of clinical experience, research, and consultation. She is a Certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, Executive Functions Coach, and a registered Licensed Mental Health Intern. She is a certified Orton-Gillingham trainer and has published two books that compile her research and practice in Theory of Mind. She has served on accreditation committees for the Florida Council of Independent Schools, is a university adjunct professor in developmental and child psychology, and presents at various national and international conferences. Dr. Ordetx owns a private academy in Lakewood Ranch, Florida specializing in the multi-sensory education of students who have language and learning-based differences. She is Executive Director of the Therapy and Reading Center of Lakewood Ranch, a multi-disciplinary, pediatric therapy clinic.
Carole Repensek
Dr. Carole Repensek began her career in dyslexia in New Jersey almost by accident. Graduating with a BS in Elementary Education in 1970 at a time when there were no jobs available, she was offered a job and training in a school for children with dyslexia. She immediately developed a passion for teaching reading to students with reading differences and embarked on a lifelong journey which continues today. She obtained a MS degree in Special Education from Hunter College, and later, an Ed.D. degree in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University.
Moving to Miami in 1976, she joined the staff of McGlannan School, a clinical school for students with dyslexia. She became the Assistant Director spending almost 30 years there. In 2008, Carole moved to Scheck Hillel Community School where she developed the Nativ program for students with dyslexia. She also taught graduate classes in reading and dyslexia. Presently, Carole is the Director of Academic Advancement at Riviera Preparatory School in Miami.
In addition to being a member of the Florida International Dyslexia Association board, she was also president of the branch as well as regional representative on the National IDA Branch Council Board. She has also been a board member, vice president for programming and president of the Association of Independent Schools of Florida for almost thirty years. Education has clearly been Carole's life work and joy.
Sandi Soper
Sandi Soper, recipient of the Sylvia Richardson Award, received her M.S.E. in Special Education from the University of Wisconsin. Her work included serving as a Specific Learning Disabilities Program Specialist for the School Board of Sarasota County, Florida, and as an adjunct professor of Special Education at the University of South Florida where she taught Clinical Education, Assessment, Foundations, and Perspectives in Learning and Behavior Disorders courses.
Sandi is a National Strategic Instruction Model (SIM) Professional Developer for the University of Kansas-Center for Research on Learning, and she serves on the State of Florida SIM Advisory Committee.
Sandi has served as the Vice President of the International Dyslexia Association, as well as the President of the Florida Branch of the IDA. She has chaired numerous IDA and IDA-FL committees and has served on the Executive Committee of the IDA Branch Council.
Currently, Sandi serves as a private educational consultant for Strategic Consulting SS, LLC, in Sarasota.
Tanya Vickers
Tanya Vickers is an experienced Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) who has been advocating for children and adults as a practicing clinician for more than 20 years. Tanya is a specialist in Assistive Technology and found her passion working with individuals who were minimally or nonverbal. While using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) with children who were discovering the power of communication, Tanya began utilizing Assistive Technology to assist these students to read and write. Tanya then developed an eagerness to use Assistive Technology with all students who were struggling readers and writers in general education classes, as well as special education classes, to give them ways to access academic text and help them become lifelong learners. Tanya was instrumental in encouraging fellow educators to utilize the concept of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), which includes use of Assistive Technology, to create classrooms which allowed students to learn, and demonstrate their knowledge, based on their own learning profile.
Tanya is grateful for the professional mentors she has collaborated with and is fortunate to have worked with an amazing network of professionals, while working in dynamically different roles, in the education field. She has practiced as an SLP in multiple school districts in West Virginia and Florida. Tanya has also served as an Exceptional Student Education Program Specialist in Martin County leading more than 50 therapists and managing the programs of Speech/Language Therapy, Assistive Technology, Deaf/Hard of Hearing, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy. Currently, Tanya is a Client Development Manager for Cobb Pediatric Therapy Services. She supports school districts in Florida, Georgia, and Alabama by fulfilling their staffing needs for Speech/Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Psychology.
A West Virginia native, Tanya graduated from Marshall University in Huntington, WV with her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Communication Disorders. Tanya is a member of the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) and is a five-time ASHA ACE award recipient.
Tanya has lived in Florida for 12 years. She loves the beach and enjoys "living the Florida lifestyle" with her husband and two teenage children.
Mandy Horton Walker
Mandy Horton Walker has taught students from kindergarten through adulthood in a variety of settings in Florida. She is passionate about her calling to serve reading strategies to learners, parents, and colleagues. She believes that every age and every stage of learning is the best. She describes students who struggle with reading as learners with dynamic learning profiles and great gifts. Currently, she serves as the Instructional Coach for ESE in a public school district.
In addition to earning a M.Ed., ESE-VE and several areas of certification and endorsement, Mandy has earned the Wilson Language System Level II and WDT Certificates, the University of Kansas, Center for Research on Learning Strategic Instruction Model Learning Strategies and Content Enhancement Routine Professional Developer (KU-CRL: SIM LS & CER) Certificates, and the Certified Dyslexia Therapist credentialed by the International Dyslexia (CDT-IDA).
On a personal note, Mandy, who has two grown children, and her husband, Reed, are delighted with beloved grandchildren who bring joy and excitement to everyone. Mandy also enjoys reading, sewing, gardening, floral arts, walking, and visiting with family and friends.
Advisory Council
Don Compton
Dr. Don Compton is Professor of Psychology at Florida State University/Florida Center for Reading Research. He was formerly Professor and Chair of Special Education and a John F. Kennedy Center Investigator at Peabody College, Vanderbilt University. He earned a Ph.D. from Northwestern University's School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, with a specialization in learning disabilities. While working on his Ph.D., and for several years after its completion, he was employed as a learning disabilities resource teacher in Skokie, Illinois. Compton then worked for four years as an assistant professor in the department of Curriculum and Instruction at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. He then accepted a NICHD post-doctoral research fellowship at the Institute for Behavior Genetics, University of Colorado. From there he accepted a position at Vanderbilt University that he held until the spring of 2015. He then accepted his current position with the Florida Center for Reading Research at Florida Sate University. Compton is experienced in designing, managing, analyzing, and disseminating data from cross-sectional and longitudinal studies as well as randomized control studies. His research involves modeling individual differences in the development of children's reading skills and the identification and treatment of children with reading disabilities. Compton has served as PI and Co-PI on multiple NICHD and IES studies using randomized controlled trials to evaluate academic interventions for children with learning difficulties. He has over 75 peer-review publications and is on the editorial boards of the Journal of Educational Psychology, Journal of Learning Disabilities, Scientific Studies of Reading, and Exceptional Children. Compton is the past President of the Society for the Scientific Study of Reading and currently serves as associate-editor of Scientific Study of Reading.
Gayle Harrell
Rep. Gayle Harrell was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2000. She was re-elected 3 times and served until 2008 when she was termed out. She was subsequently elected again in 2010, 2012 and 2014.
With over 16 years of service in the Florida House of Representatives, Rep. Harrell is a leader in setting policy for the State of Florida. She is currently Chair of Children's, Families & Seniors Subcommittee, and is a sitting member of the Health & Human Services Committee, Health Care Appropriations Subcommittee, Judiciary Committee and the Criminal Justice Subcommittee. She has also served as Chair of the Health and Human Services Access Sub Committee, the Healthcare Quality Committee, Healthcare General Committee, and the Healthcare Standards Subcommittee.
Gayle Harrell also has over 28 years of experience in healthcare. She is President and CEO of Health IT Strategies, LLC and has worked as a Healthcare Administrator, managing the Ob-Gyn. practice of Dr. James E. Harrell and founder of the Breast Imaging Center, a mammography center specializing in preventive care for women.
In addition, Harrell is a nationally recognized leader in Health Information Technology and was appointed by U.S. House of Representatives Speaker John Boehner to the national Health Information Technology Policy Committee as established under ARRA 2009 (Stimulus Bill). As a part of the Policy Committee she also was appointed to serve on the Health Information Exchange Work Group and the Privacy and Security Tiger Team. In addition, she was one of four legislators nationally to serve on the National Governor's Association State Alliance for e-Health. She also serves on the Health Information Management Systems Society (HIMSS) Healthcare Reform Committee.
Harrell has won numerous awards for her legislative service. Among her many awards she has received the Legislator of the Year by the Florida Medical Association, the Legislative Leadership Award by Mothers Against Drunk Driving, the Legislative Award by the Florida Children's Forum, an "A" Ranking by the Florida Chamber of Commerce, the Friend of Free Enterprise Award by the Associated Builders and Contractors, the Legislative Achievement Award by Keep Florida Beautiful, and the Distinguished Legislator Award by the Florida Police Benevolent Association.
Harrell has been married to Dr. James Harrell for 50 years, has four children and eight grandchildren, and is an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Stuart.
Holly Lane
Dr. Holly Lane is an associate professor of special education and director of the School of Special Education, School Psychology, and Early Childhood Studies. She also coordinates the doctoral program in special education and directs the University of Florida Literacy Initiative. Her research focuses on literacy intervention and prevention of reading difficulties through effective early literacy instruction and teacher education. She has conducted studies of tutoring interventions, increasing access to books in the homes of children from low-income families, and teacher knowledge of literacy. She has worked on projects to study reading intervention in juvenile correctional facilities and to develop professional development materials for teachers. Dr. Lane has also been the principal investigator of two doctoral training projects focused on preparing scholars in literacy intervention research.
Susan Sentell
Susan Sentell is passionate in her quest for reaching and teaching all learners, particularly those with dyslexia. Her mission and vision form the foundation for her professional career as an educator. Susan has taught students of various ages in a variety of settings in Florida. Her work as a Wilson Credentialed Trainer have taken her across the country providing the professional development and coaching required for teachers to become successful in their approach to literacy instruction for learners who struggle with reading. Susan's educational consultant credentials include being a Wilson Accredited Partner and a Wilson Credentialed Trainer.
She served as President of the IDA-FL. During her term, she kept her focus on building a cohesive and positive team which continues to empower the current and future accomplishments of this dynamic organization.
She and her husband are delighted to be grandparents and pet parents, which fill their lives with love and joy. Traveling for work and for pleasure round out their family adventures.
Edward Taylor
Dr. Edward C. Taylor is a licensed psychologist and has been in private practice in Jacksonville, Florida for thirty years. He received his PhD from the University of Florida.
He has held faculty appointments in the Department of Psychiatry of the University of Kansas School of Medicine and in the Department of Pediatrics of the University of Florida Medical School. His clinical practice integrates psychological and education services into cohesive interventions for students and families affected by learning difficulties.
In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Taylor provides educational interventions to students through The Learning Specialists, Inc. The teaching staff of The Learning Specialists utilize research based educational interventions to address challenges with fundamental academic skills in reading, math, and writing in younger students. They teach strategic learning, problem solving, time/task management, and test taking skills to older students.
Dr. Taylor serves on the Board of Directors of the International Dyslexia Association. He is a member of the American Psychological Association.
Eric Tridas
Dr. Eric Tridas is the Medical Director of the Tridas Center for Child Development and the State Medical Director for Pediatric Health Choice-Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care Facilities (PPEC). He is a Developmental Pediatrician who specializes in the diagnosis and management of neurodevelopmental conditions including ADHD, learning differences, dyslexia, autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities and other developmental and behavioral problems.
He is Clinical Associate Professor in Pediatrics at the University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine, a member of the National Joint Committee on Learning disabilities (NJCLD) and Immediate Past President of the International Dyslexia Association. Dr. Tridas is also Dr. Tridas is a founder and partner of Tridas, LLC, a software company that developed the Tridas eWriter, an application for web based structured interviews of caregivers and teachers that generates a customized evaluation report and provides hundreds of specific recommendations.
Dr. Tridas has resided in the Tampa Bay area since 1982. He completed his fellowship in Ambulatory Pediatrics with emphasis on Developmental Disabilities at the Children's Hospital Medical Center in Boston. During that time he held an appointment as a Teaching Fellow at Harvard University. Dr. Tridas completed his residency in Pediatrics at the Children's Hospital of Buffalo. He graduated from the University of Puerto Rico, School of Medicine in 1977.
Dr. Tridas lectures nationally and internationally on topics such as dyslexia, learning disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, executive functions and other behavioral and developmental pediatrics related subjects.
Dr. Tridas edited a book for parents titled From ABC to ADHD: What Every Parent Should Know About Dyslexia and Attention Problems.
Joyce Warner
Dr. Joyce V. W. Warner holds a doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania with a specialization in reading, a Masters in Curriculum Development from Monmouth University and Bachelors in English from Syracuse University. Currently, an associate professor of literacy, she joined the Reading and Literacy Studies Faculty in the Barry University Adrian Dominican School of Education in 2003. Prior to that, from 2001 through 2003, she was Regional Coordinator for the Florida Literacy and Reading Excellence (FLaRE) Center at the University of Central Florida, a program which provided professional development and support for literacy in K-12 public schools throughout the state of Florida. She has taught Reading Practicum, Remedial Reading, and Language Arts graduate degree and certification courses at Florida Atlantic University, where she also was a supervisor of developing teachers, and Wayne State University in Michigan. In addition to her university background, Joyce has 30 + years of K-12 classroom teaching, professional development and whole school literacy program implementation experience. She is expert in Orton Gillingham practices and procedures and holds the trainer or trainer certificate from the Michigan Dyslexia Institute.She and her husband live in Delray Beach, Florida. They have two grown children.
Liz Woody Remington
Elizabeth Woody Remington is one of the three original founders of the Learning Alliance. She has a B.A. in English Literature from the University of Delaware and a Masters in Special Ed-Learning Disabilities from American University and is on the Board of Directors for the International Dyslexia Association. She lives in Vero Beach, Florida, and is the mother of two boys who have struggled with learning challenges.
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She let it out, she broke my fucking nose. I was half in shock. I fell to my knees on her kitchen floor, put my face in my hands, and sobbed out all the grief of christ knows how many years…."
by kurt eisenlohr
I went home with this girl, Racheal, skinny little sweet twenty something manic depressive nutbag. We were drunk. She was a bad drunk. I was a pro in freefall. She was all yes, no, stop, go–si, so I decided to leave –but she blocked the door.
"Stay," she said. "Don't go."
I took off my coat.
"Leave," she said. I started to. "Don't go," she said.
"I'm leaving."
"Then go!"
"You seem angry."
"I'm not angry."
"Punch me in the face."
"Go ahead, let it out."
She let it out, she broke my fucking nose. I was half in shock. I fell to my knees on her kitchen floor, put my face in my hands, and sobbed out all the grief of christ knows how many years.
"Oh my god, I'm so sorry!" she said. "Let me get you a towel."
"Do you have a gun?" I asked her.
"I think I do."
"Go get it. I want you to shoot me. Fuck this shit. I can't live anymore. I hate it."
She disappeared into the bedroom. I could hear her digging around in there. Her whole apartment was littered with boxes she'd never unpacked.
"I can't find it," she said. She handed me a wet towel to sop the blood. "I'll look again later." She was like me. She she she…
"What time is it?" I asked.
"Three-thirty. You should stay."
"I have to work at seven-thirty."
"It's too late to catch a bus."
"You're right."
"Let's go to bed," she said. "I owe you," she said.
Originally published:
Issue Twenty-Five
April 2003
Kurt Eisenlohr is a painter, writer and bartender living in Portland, Oregon. In addition to illustrations contributed to all issues of Smokebox his poetry and fiction has appeared in numerous journals and magazines including Asylum, Verbal Abuse, River Styx, Another Chicago Magazine, Cokefish, Decoy, Way Station, and STOVEPiPER. His chapbook, Under Hand and Over Bone was published by Alpha Beat Press in 1994.


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(no subject)
That was a pretty good weekend. I slobbed for most of Saturday and then pootled in to London to get my PS3 repaired for a 3rd time. This time around though, they're actually going to be keeping it for a week to give it a proper examination, so hopefully it'll get fixed properly this time around.
Using my recently gained bus lore, I discovered the bus I was going to use to get me to the London vamp game afterwards went past Playin' Games. I had thought originally that I might get to TCR and then walk to PG, but having a bus stop within spitting distance confirmed my decision to stick my head in the door. It felt very different in there, so I had wondered if it'd changed hands or something. Or maybe it's pondering closing down. For no readily apparent reason I picked up a copy of Geist and a strange not-quite-a-robot that collects pingpong balls.
Then I hoofed it to the London game, making a brief stop over in Gosh to pick up some graphic novels. The game was pretty good. No plot as such to speak of, except for some random guy auctioning off some "artifacts" of which only one was known to have some kind of special power (a top hat that made things disappear). It did however have some very amusing conversation to be had and some eye gouging horror in the form of one character describing his art. Which I won't go into detail because quite frankly it was too horrific to mention in public and I don't want wrong-minded random folk to accidently end up reading this. I now have the fun of investigating the items we won in the auction.
Sunday was uneventful apart from convincing the re-enactment lot to watch Azumi, which we all thought was very suitable content to watch on such a Vile day of fail. I also ate chinese and started writing up my Requiem downtime.


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Jump into a match, join epic fights and play against the real players. Collect tons of unique items, build and design your match, earn rewards and achievements, upgrade powers! Fight in an awesome campaign...No wonder Supermechs are so popular.
So what is Supermechs exactly? It's a gaming robot tournament which consists of series of one on one fights. First, you build your robot, put guns on it and get it prepared for a fight. The fight consists of a limited number of rounds, where each round you and then your opponent alternately get a chance to attack or to fight back.
A workshop is a place where you can replace robot's head, add some new weapons like plasma gun and do other stuff as improvements. You need money for that of course.
Time is unlimited which is nice, so you don't have to worry about making quick decisions which would lead to wrong moves. You got all the time for thinking you need.
The idea is to strategize and use the attack elements from the bottom in the right order. You can step back or move forward one step, closer to the enemy. You can then fire up a missile, shoot from the laser gun or activate one of the melee attacks. You shoot once than enemy strikes back. Plese, note that some of your weapons won't work depending on your distance to the enemy. But beware, the closer you are, the more damage will enemy make to your robot.
With each level up you get bonus points. These you can spend immediately in the workshop: Spector, one barrel BB gun etc... Also, after you level up, you will get an option to choose a new campaign.
The one left standing after several rounds is the winner. There's a health meter above each opponent which tracks how much 'life energy' you have left.


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Are you able to help?
We are looking for individuals to provide items for those in need. Donations of non-perishable food items are always welcome and appreciated. No gift is too small. Food donations can be dropped off during pantry hours.
Our current food needs are the following:
- Peanut Butter
- Canned Fruits, no sugar
- Canned Vegetables, no salt
- Canned or Bagged Beans
- Mac & Cheese
- Cereal
- Tuna
- Spaghetti Sauce
- Hamburger Helper
- Canned Meat
- Oatmeal
- Rice
- Pasta
- Soups
- Boxed Potatoes
- Jello
- Juice
- Toilet Paper
- Deodorant
- Razors
- Dish Soap
- Diapers
- Feminine Products
If you are interested in donating any of these items, please contact Waverly at 616-451-4036. Thank you


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Product Description
For the smoker who wants a good-looking and reliable lighter that works every time – you can't get any better than Zippo. This personalized brushed chrome model is both attractive and sturdy and fits easily into just about any pocket or even a small purse or wristlet. Just like every Zippo product, this lighter is made in the USA with Zippo's Lifetime Guarantee.
- Measures 1 1/2" x 2 1/8" x 1/2".
- Zippo Lifetime Guarantee.


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Product Description
2 Channel 24/96K USB DAC + Headphone Amp.
Small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and light enough to carry in a shirt pocket, the microStreamer was designed with portability in mind. The microStreamer is a USB connected and powered, ultra high-performance external sound card for computers, tablets, smart-phones or any compliant host. Dual purpose built, it incorporates both a high–performance headphone amplifier with an analog volume control that allows you to connect the microStreamer between your computer and headphones; and a fixed-level, low impedance 2.25V line output that allows you to connect between your computer and home stereo, other entertainment system or to powered loudspeakers.
Housed in an aluminum enclosure precision-machined from solid billets, the durable and beautiful microStreamer is modern, sleek and compact. It is simple to use and provides a level of improvement in sound quality that must be heard to be believed. To improve your computers' sound quality, the microsStreamer takes over the job of processing the digital music stream from the computer - a task critical for producing great sound. Do not be fooled by its modest cost or small size: the microStreamer's ability to transform the sound of your computer, smart phone or tablet's music files or streaming audio into a state of the art musical experience will make a believer out of even the most critical listener.
As with other HRT products, the set up and operation of the microStreamer is super easy: simply use the included USB cable and hook the input of the microStreamer into any USB port on the host computer, smart phone or tablet and select it as the default outpost device. Now you are ready to experience your music with the best sound possible.
Operating jitter-free via the use of its high-performance asynchronous USB transceiver, the microStreamer, when plugged in, automatically performs an 'electronic handshake' with the computer or other host and tells it that the microStreamer is to get all audio signals sent to it instead of the Digital-to-Analog converter (DAC) that is built into the computer, and that's it! To enjoy the music in your home entertainment system optimally, connect the microStreamer's fixed output jack* to any available line-level analog input on your integrated amplifier, preamp, receiver, or powered loudspeakers. Alternatively, connect your favorite headphones to microstreamer's variable output port.
Volume control of microStreamer's OCL (output capacitor-less) headphone amplifier is accomplished by using the digital 'slide' control on the host computer's music playback software to adjust microStreamers's internal analog volume attenuator. This clever analogue attenuation arrangement allows the full audio quality of the microStreamer to remain pure, clean and full-ranged, avoiding the known sonic degradation of digital attenuators.
With its jitter-free asynchronous interface, combined with processing power that allows native-resolution (no up-sampling) playback of digital music data up to a maximum of 24-bit/96k material, the microStreamer will transform your computer, tablet, or Smartphone into a better-than-CD quality source. Utilizing native Audio Class 1.0 drivers (present in all modern PC, Mac & Linux computers) there are no extra drivers or software to install.
LED indicators on the side of the microStreamer's aluminum housing show the current sample rate (32k, 44k1, 48k, 88k2 & 96k), as well as the state of its built-in mute circuit; you will always know at a glance your systems operating mode. As with other HRT products, as firmware improvements become available, HRT's UpStream utility allows the microStreamer to be updated right from the computer's desktop in a matter of seconds.
The High Resolution Technologies microStreamer, along with all the other products in the HRT lineup, is designed and manufactured with pride in Southern California.
1/8" male (3.5 mm) stereo male plug.
"It doesn't matter what type of music you listen to: the microStreamer's insight, cohesion and surefooted rhythmic ability will ensure it works well. We think Audioquest's all-conquering DragonFly finally has a rival to worry about". What Hi-Fi. Read review here.
- Full Scale Output: 2.25 V RMS (line), 1.4V (headphone)
- Output Impedance: 50 Ohm (line), .5 Ohm (headphone)
- Frequency Response (20 Hz/20 kHz): +0db / -.4dB
- Output Power: Up to 140 mW (headphone)
- Noise Floor (DC to 30 kHz): 18 uV RMS
- S/N Ratio (DC to 30 kHz): 102 dB
- S/N Ratio (A-weighted): 105 dB
- THD+N (1 kHz Full Scale): .002% (line), .008% (headphone)
- THD+N (1 kHz -20dB): .0006% (line)
- Jitter contribution (DC to 30 kHz): >130 dB below full scale
- Attenuator range: Line fixed, 63 steps (headphone)
- Sample Rate: Up to 96 kHz
- Bit Depth: Up to 24 bit
- USB transfer protocol: Asynchronous
- Power Requirements (USB Bus): 150 mA
- Dimensions: 2.5" x 1.2" x 0.4"


text: Italian designer born in Empoli in 1979, he has always believed that style is spirit, identity, something that is separate from life itself. He comes from a family of artisans who have worked in leather since before he was born. He decided that each piece should pass through his own hands to be refined and to fully complete the creative process, leather and silver bags, jewels, accessories and clothing, each creation requires this attention to become a truly unique and beautiful piece of jewelry.