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Mon-Fri 9am to 5:30pm
Saturday 10am to 5pm
Blanketed in pristine rainforest, lined by golden sands, and brimming with curious-looking creatures, Costa Rica is the ultimate family playground. Explore inland jungles and volcanic wonders in every way possible: soaring on a zip line, riding on horseback, and hiking misty trails. Then head for the Gold Coast on the Pacific Ocean for some sun, surf, and adventures out at sea.
Private Vehicles will be used throughout the tour.
Local tipping is included on this Family trip which covers local guides, drivers and gratuity for included meals. At the end of your trip if you felt your two Chief Experience Officers did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline; per CEO $3-5 USD per person, per day can be used.
For non-included meals in restaurant, a guideline is 10-15% of cost of bill.
1. All parents/guardians are required to supervise their children at all times throughout the tour and may not leave their child under the supervision of the CEO, local guides, drivers, etc. Children are not to be left unattended.
Costa Rica will not be allowing anyone to enter the country without proof of a departure ticket (bus, airplane, boat, etc.). If you are travelling through a few countries in Central America, you will need to show proof of your itinerary and a departure ticket from your last destination. Please print the itinerary and voucher and bring it with you.
Be prepared for rain and lower temperatures during the winter season (June-November), especially in Costa Rica's central valley.
Options for family travel insurance are available. Please enquire with your Family Trip Specialist for more information.
5. Please note that on all Family Adventures one adult can only accompany up to two minors. If you have over two minors planning on travelling then a second adult will be required to attend.
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labelled and restricted to one soft compact suitcase, sports bag, or backpack. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. Porters may not always be available, so be prepared to carry your own bags.
Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at [email protected] and we will send it on to you.
Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures' itineraries globally.
G Adventures is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.
G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation.
Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment.
Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Operator (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
If you have purchased an arrival transfer or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that:
Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change or flight cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please call the emergency contact number to advise of your new arrival flight information. If you do not, we will not be able to rearrange your arrival transfer and you will need to make your own way to the starting hotel at your own expense. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel.
G Adventures Office San Jose, Costa Rica
During Office hours (Weekdays 9am-5pm Local Time): +506 4001 8474
After hours emergency number: +51 997 582 712
If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found here.
Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100
Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000
Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618
Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307
Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
- Hanging Bridges Monteverde (47USD per person)
- Santa Elena Cloud Forest Visit (25-50USD per person)
- Ziplining (60USD per person)
Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park
- Rio Negro Tubing Adventure (60USD per person)
- Hot Springs and Volcano Mud Bath (Free)
Playa Potrero
- Sunset Sail (85-95USD per person)
- Horseback Riding (55USD per person)
- Yoga - Playa Potrero (Free)
Minimum age of 7 years for this trip.
Soar through the jungle canopy on zip lines, Join a naturalist on a night walk through the cloud forest, keeping your ears open for the symphony of hooting owls, croaking frogs, and chirping insects, Test your skills at a cooking class as you whip up delicious Costa Rican dishes, Jump into a natural mud bath, and swim in pools heated by area volcanoes.
Your G for Good Moment: Cafe Monteverde Experience, Monteverde
Your Family Journeys Moment: Life Monteverde Community Lunch, Tour, and Cooking Class, Monteverde
Your Family Journeys Moment: Monteverde Institute Lecture & Reforestation Project, Monteverde. Arrival transfer. Naturalist guided cloud forest night walk. Canyon canopy tour in Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Rio Negro Hot Springs and volcanic mud bath. Horseback riding and guided hike in Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Palo Verde National Park guided boat tour. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Prices are based on double occupancy; all other room configurations are on request and cannot be guaranteed. We will accommodate triples/quads whenever possible. Please call for further details.
Family Journeys are designed for groups traveling with children between the ages of 7 and 17. Your group must include a child in order to book, and anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
There are new Health & Safety Protocols for National Geographic Journeys tours. Please see here for full details and up-to-date requirements as they may change.
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Odd number adult travellers in your family will be paired in twin accommodation with another adult traveller of the same sex for the duration of the trip.
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.
An arrival transfer is included when you arrive on Day 1, or if you arrive up to three days prior provided that you have booked your pre-accommodation through National Geographic Journeys in our joining hotel. Due to customer experience and quality considerations, all services related to the tour must be continuous.
If you have booked pre-tour accommodations through G Adventures, please note that you must contact us to confirm the included arrival transfer.
From the customs checkpoint, it is a short 30-second walk to the airport exit doors, Outside the airport doors, you will find people waiting for arriving passengers, this area is really congested and chaotic, the G representative will be waiting there with a sign of G Adventures / Natgeo Journeys.
In case you don't see the sign, don't panic continue walking to the Malinche Restaurant. If for any reason you still don't see your driver, please wait outside of the restaurant and contact us at the following numbers:
- Monday to Sunday from 8 am to 5 pm: +506 4001 8474 (ext 4)
- Monday to Sunday from 5 pm to 8 am: +51 997 582 712
Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day.
Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don't see a note, please ask reception for details!
If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day.
Costa Rica Water Activities:
• Drybag (Will help keep cameras and essentials dry)
• Sport Sandals or Water Shoes (if you plan to do waterfall rappelling and/or rafting)
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket
Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
• Quick Covid Test/Antigen Test
Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear
Note: Be prepared for rain and humidity at any time in Costa Rica - in particular during the "green" season (May-November).
Lightweight, quick-drying, clothes are advisable; as well as a light waterproof jacket. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and sometimes cool evenings.
We're working with our accommodation partners to reduce single-use plastic on our tours by providing safe drinking water for refillable bottles wherever possible. Find out more about our Plastics Partnership Project here.
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. G Adventures can provide you with the appropriate coverage. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Hotels (8 nts)
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer, and you have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
2 CEOs (Chief Experience Officers) throughout, local guides.
Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops
Rooming is based on double occupancy (2 passengers / 2 beds per room); all other room configurations are on request and cannot be guaranteed. We will try to accommodate triples/quad requests whenever possible and it's important to note that rooming configuration can change from city to city and 2 single beds are the standard configuration in a room.
Hotels vary greatly throughout Central America and even within Costa Rica depending on the location. We do our best to pick comfortable accommodations, but in popular locations options can be limited and we sometimes use various different hotel depending on seasonality. It also is important to remember that hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common, even in upgraded hotels. We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control.
Please also note that Monteverde is a fairly small centre with shopping and some great restaurants, but most of the upgraded accommodations are located outside of the main town/city centre - to take better advantage of the natural beauty of these area. Taxis are readily available.
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge or ask your CEO where the closest laundromat is. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry, so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).
Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. Read more about travel safety for ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling.
Like any city where tourism is on the increase, crime also tends to increase and while San José is not a noticeably dangerous city, there are certain precautions you should take. Make sure that you are aware of your things at all times and don't go out carrying expensive gear or jewellery.
All National Geographic Family Journeys with G Adventures group trips are accompanied by two of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense; you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
Eating is a big part of traveling and we encourage you to experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. It's important to remember, that food may be different from what you are used to at home and that some things may not be available in other countries.
Some meals are included in the trip price, while others are not, to allow flexibility and choice to you and your family. For non-included meals our CEOs will still make arrangements for the group to eat together, which allows you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and approximate budget (per person) for meals not included.
Throughout this trip, breakfast is included daily (ranging from continental to buffet depending on the trip). Drinking water is available throughout (don't forget your refillable water bottle as you will have access to either filtered water from hotels or as made available by the CEO). Healthy, local snacks will also be available.
Note that any special meal requirements or dietary restrictions need to be specified at time of booking.
8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as far as possible, but rules do change and sometimes without warning. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check the information yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements.
Visa information specific to your destination and nationality can be found in our Important Pre-Departure Information page here
The currency in Costa Rica is the Colon (CRC).
Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Latin America. Check with your bank.
You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollars cash and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.
CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIP: Please be advised that slightly torn notes, notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than 100USD (or equivalent).
As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com
Costa Rica airport exit tax: $29USD
Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information.
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Private vehicle, boat, horse, walking
Arrive in time to meet your fellow travelers for a welcome gathering this evening. Your arrival transfer is included.
Costa Rica has one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world and is a top destination for nature lovers. As such, there is a lot of rain, regardless of the season, allowing for its lush green rain forests and cloud forest, in which flora and fauna thrive. Please come prepared for the possibility of wet weather and variations in temperature.
This morning, travel up into the misty cloud forests of Monteverde, where we'll visit a working farm and coffee cooperative for an earth-to-table lunch, followed by a property tour. Learn the secrets of Costa Rican cuisine and test your cooking skills at an afternoon class, then attend a coffee-making demonstration. Enjoy some free time to get settled in our hotel. This evening, follow a naturalist into the forest to seek out the fascinating nocturnal creatures that spring to life after the sun goes down, from red-eyed tree frogs to spiny porcupines.
The town of Monteverde is fairly small with shopping and some great restaurants, but most of the upgraded accommodations in this area are located outside of the main town centre - to take better advantage of the natural beauty and stunning landscapes of the area. Taxis are readily available to take you into town and back and can cost approx. $10USD each way.
Accommodations tend to be a bit more simple here, with fewer amenities. Its important to remember that the cloud forest sits at a higher elevation and offers a cooler but humid climate - which is why hotels in this area do not have A/C. It can also feel damp in rooms which is unavoidable in such a climate.
Visit the Monteverde Institute, a research and educational organization supported by National Geographic. Hear about reforestation projects spearheaded by the institute, then roll up your sleeves and lend a hand in the tree nursery. The rest of the day is free for poolside relaxation or optional excursions in the clouds, including zip-lining, hiking in the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, or a walk through the forest canopy across hanging bridges.
Today we travel into Rincón de la Vieja National Park, an otherworldly land of smoking volcanoes, bubbling mud pots, and thermal hot springs-all shrouded in thick tangles of rainforest. Channel your inner Tarzan as you swing across zip lines strung through the forest canopy; then visit thermal hot springs and mud baths, where playing in the mud isn't just allowed, it's encouraged.
Rise early for a full day of adventure in the national park. Saddle up for a horseback-riding excursion, get introduced to the park's creatures on a naturalist-guided wildlife hike, and swim beneath the soaring canyons and tumbling waterfalls of the Río Negro. There is also the option to stay back at our hacienda and relax by the pool.
Journey toward the Pacific Ocean to Playa Potrero on the Gold Coast of Costa Rica. The afternoon is free to play in the sand and surf; or opt to set sail across the bay and around the Catalina Islands.
The day is free to do as much or as little as you like. Relax at the pool or on the beach in this tropical paradise. Opt to join a yoga class, or take a long walk along the beach.
Leave the beach behind for our return trip to the capital. Stop en route for a jungle boat cruise through Palo Verde National Park. The river is a wildlife-lover's paradise: crocodiles glide beneath the water's surface, monkeys swing through the surrounding treetops, and numerous winged wonders wade and fly at the river's edge-including ospreys, wood storks, and roseate spoonbills. Continue to San José and celebrate our adventure at a farewell dinner.
Depart at any time.
Prices from: €1994.25
Duration: 9 Days
Merchandising: Planeterra Project
Trip Type: Small Group
Travel Style: National Geographic Family Journeys
Service Level: Upgraded
Physical Grading: 2 - Light
Prices from: €1994.25
9 day National Geographic Family Journeys tour
The Department of Foreign Affairs has up-to-date advice for Irish citizens on staying safe and healthy abroad. For more security, local laws, health, passport and visa information see https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/ and follow dfatravelwise


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STEM Flix is a STEM Video series for middle school classes created by the Northrop Grumman Foundation and Science Bob. The videos include demonstrations that engage the students and then explore STEM career fields and topics and how they are applied in everyday life.
There are two videos - Having Fun with STEM and Fun with Microelectronics - and the site also has instructions for doing experiments shown in the films, as well as fact sheets on STEM areas.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Resources for Educators

subset: commoncrawl


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A warehouse blaze that destroyed $1.1 million worth of rocker Neil Young's music equipment and memorabilia broke out in his custom hybrid 1959 Lincoln Continental, a fire official said.
Young's pride and joy, which he calls LincVolt and which runs on electric batteries and a biodiesel-powered generator, caught fire Nov. 9 and the flames spread to the warehouse, according to Belmont-San Carlos, Calif., Fire Marshal Jim Palisi and a website devoted to the car.
Young had the car converted from gasoline to hybrid power, a transformation captured in a four-part film series.
While the exact cause of the fire is still being probed, it seems "to be an operator error that occurred in an untested part of the charging system," Young wrote in a statement. "We are investigating the components involved with plug-in charging," Young wrote.
The flames severely damaged the car and the 10,000-square-foot warehouse that contained guitars, framed photos, film canisters and crates of musical equipment.
"How do you put a price on that vehicle?" Palisi added. "To me, it's priceless."
Firefighters managed to save at least 70 percent of the building's contents, which included five other classic cars.
U.S. & World
News from around the country and around the globe
They saved "a lot of archival items were threatened and the fire department did a first-class job protecting them," Young said of the firefighters.
Young, whose beloved car even had its own website, had just returned from an appearance at the Specialty Equipment Market Association car show in Las Vegas, where he delivered a talk on the hybrid.
"I love my car," he told the audience.
Selected Reading: Mercury News, Lincvolt.com,


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Pet First Aid Kit and Emergency Care Information
"Be prepared" is good advice especially if there is an emergency. To be better prepared in a pet emergency, a pet first aid kit is beneficial.
"The biggest advantage for having a pet first aid kit would be so that you can concentrate on what you can do for your pet constructively rather than looking all over the place for something that might 'work' but is less than ideal," notes Dr. James Barr, clinical assistant professor, Texas A&M University, College of Veterinary Medicine.
"The preparation of a pet emergency kit will allow you to mentally prepare for a problem," says Barr. "A waterproof plastic bin is the perfect container as it will keep the items in it from being ruined so that they will be available in an emergency."
Barr explains that ideally pet first aid kits should be kept at home and in your car. Then you can help your pets in case they are injured at home or one that might have been injured in the street. He notes that one of the most common injuries of pets is being hit by a car.
"There are commercial first aid kits available for pets," Barr notes, "and some of the essentials would include: cohesive bandage/ACE bandage, assortment of bandages, burn gel, instant cold pack, emergency blanket, gauze pads, roll gauze, medical vinyl gloves, hydrogen peroxide, triple antibiotic packets, alcohol wipes, antiseptic wipes, slip-style leash, lubricating jelly, safety pins, bandage scissors, one-inch adhesive tape, tongue depressors, tweezers/forceps, and hand cleaning wipes."
He suggests that a deluxe pet first aid kit would also include sterile eye/skin wash, sterile gauze pads, roll conforming gauze, 10 ml and 30 ml oral syringes, cotton swabs/applicators, digital thermometer, tick remover, and sting relief wipes.
"Be sure to include the phone numbers for your local veterinarian and emergency hospital that is open after hours in your area," Barr says. "Additionally, the Animal Poison Control Center is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at (888) 426-4435."
"First aid is not a substitute for veterinary care," Barr stresses. "First aid implies there is at least second aid and the second aid should be your veterinarian."
Depending on the emergency situation, a restraint may need to be used when working with an injured pet. "One must be very careful with injured pets because they are unable to communicate with us and us with them, they are often afraid. That fear is translated into aggression and pets can injure even the best meaning bystander because they are in pain," explains Barr.
He notes that you should not try to restrain the pet at all, if possible, but in times of respiratory distress (difficulty breathing) it becomes critical that the pet not be stressed. Holding pets sometimes creates more stress. This should be balanced with the recognition that the pet be prevented from harming themselves further.
"A pet with spinal injuries needs to be restrained much the same way that a person should be restrained after what is suspected to be spinal trauma," Barr states. He notes that instead of being on their back, it is helpful to have the pet on its side, taped to a rigid board so that its head and legs cannot move around.
In cases of poisoning, Barr explains that choosing to cause the pet to vomit the offending poison should not be standard procedure to treating poisoning of a cat. There are circumstances when this is a bad decision. You should always contact your local veterinarian or the pet poison hotline for instructions.
Barr says that if you, as a pet caregiver, are tempted to dispense human medicines to your cat or dog you need to know that any product containing acetomenophin should never be given to a cat. It is poisonous to them. Most of the over counter pain relievers, especially ibuprofen and naproxen, should not be used in dogs as they are very irritating to the stomach. Please, call your veterinarian with any medication questions.
Pet medical emergencies can be trying times, but with prior preparation and a sufficient pet first aid kit, the situation can be less stressful.
Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the Web at vetmed.tamu.edu/news/pet-talk. Suggestions for future topics may be directed to email@example.com.


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Here we are after the kidnapping of some 300 girls by a radical Islamic group in Nigeria, and there are still many in the West who don't get it. They just don't understand the motivation of the kidnappers.
Radical Muslims want to take over the world. They divide it into two parts—those who submit to Allah and therefore are at "peace" and those that are at war until they are made to submit to Allah. These are the houses of peace (Dar al-Islam) and of war (Dar al-Harb).
By misreading the motives of Boko Haram, the kidnapping group, we are misreading what the whole conflict is all about; the same applies to radical Muslims everywhere.
Recently, on my radio show I interviewed Dr. Paul Marshall of the Hudson Institute. He is the author of "Their Blood Cries Out" (with Lela Gilbert) and "Persecuted: The Global Assault on Christians" (with Lela Gilbert and Nina Shea).
We spoke specifically about the kidnapping of the girls, which has garnered international attention. It's good that this terrible deed has made headlines. But it's tragic that when Boko Haram burned down a school a few months ago, killing 90 children, it didn't make news.
The same applies when they bombed several churches at Christmas during worship services in 2011. Since 2009, they have killed thousands of people, mostly Christians.
Paul Marshall said that too many in the American state department are not willing to recognize that Boko Haram is motivated by their religious ideology, i.e., radical Islam. He said these government officials have such a secular mindset that they think every motivation is merely money, sex, or power—but not religion.
Marshall also referred to an article from the New York Times (April 15, 2014), which stated that the group's motivation is unclear: "Boko Haram's exact goals, beyond a generalized desire to undermine the secular Nigerian state, remain mysterious." Mysterious? It's about radical Islam.
The leader of the Boko Haram movement said on video: "Everybody knows that democracy and the [Nigerian] constitution is paganism. You Christians should know that Jesus is not the Son of God. This religion of Christianity you're practicing is not the religion of God. It's paganism. We are trying to coerce you to embrace Islam because that is what God instructed us to do."
Commenting on that quote, Marshall said, "I don't know about you, but that sounds quite religious to me." At heart, this is a religious conflict. In short, convert or die.
The 300 or so kidnapped girls are mostly Christians. Now, about 100 of them have "converted" to Islam. Of course, they had little choice in the matter if they like having their heads attached to the rest of their bodies.
Convert or die.
A country divided
Nigeria is a country divided, notes Dr. Marshall. For the most part, the south is Christian with some Muslims living there. The north is Muslim with some Christians living there.
The Christians in the largely Muslim north are the biggest targets of Boko Haram's violent jihad.
The second largest targets are Muslims who don't go along with the radical Muslim's version of strict Islam. The burning of the school a few months ago killed mostly Muslims. Boko Haram is at war with Western education which they feel undercuts Islam.
A few years ago, before most of us had ever heard of Boko Haram, our ministry produced a television special with John Rabe and Susan Dzuro: "Militant and Misled? Understanding Radical Islam in a Post-9/11 World."
One of our guests for that special was Dr. Zuhdi Jasser. He is a Muslim physician living in Arizona. He is the president of the American Islamic Forum for Democracy, which advocates for the separation of mosque and state.
As a medical doctor, Jasser notes that if you have the wrong diagnosis, you won't get the right cure. Since too many today treat radical Islam in a politically correct way, then we're just "chasing our tail" in trying to deal with the real enemy that wants us to convert or die.
The root cause
Dr. Jasser said, "Think of the millions of dollars in the leadership of the Pentagon that wrote a report on Fort Hood, that didn't have the courage to talk about the theological aspects of what drove [spree shooter] Nidal Hassan…demonstrating that we are completely wasting our time and not addressing the root causes which are the separatism of political Islam from American type societies."
The 80-plus page report from the Pentagon didn't mention Islam, the shooter's name (which is Islamic), what he shouted before he shot people ("Allahu Akbar!"), that he gave away Korans earlier, and so on. In short, the report from the Pentagon ignored the religious motivation of Hassan—just as many are ignoring Boko Haram's motivation today. How can we deal properly with this enemy if we pussy-foot around their stated goal?
Dr. Jasser adds, "I'm in no way saying that Islam is the problem, but what I do want people to realize is that there are some interpretations of Islam that are the problem."
Dr. Paul Marshall welcomes the attention finally paid to the evil work of Boko Haram, but he laments that after this crisis ends (hopefully with the girls being rescued), this group will likely continue its killing of more and more people in the name of Islam.
Dr. Jerry Newcombe is a TV producer and the cohost of "Kennedy Classics." He has written and co-written 24 books, including "The Book that Made America" with Dr. James Kennedy. He hosts gracenetradio.com Thursdays at noon. Follow him on Twitter @newcombejerry.


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Parents can have a duty to use IVF, say bioethicists
Yet another controversial utilitarian proposal has popped up in the March issue of the American Journal of Bioethics. Two bioethicists contend that some parents are morally obligated to use pre-implantation genetic diagnosis to create a healthy baby.
When two Italian-Australian utilitarian bioethicists declared in the Journal of Medical Ethics that infanticide (or after-birth abortion) was morally permissible, they lit the fuse on a world-wide storm of condemnation. But a proposal which may be even more controversial has popped up in the April issue of the American Journal of Bioethics. Two bioethicists contend that some parents are morally obligated to use pre-implantation genetic diagnosis to create a healthy baby.
Janet Malek, of East Carolina University, and Judith F. Daar, of Whittier Law School, in California, argue that eventually the law should and will impose "a duty on IVF-reproducing parents to maximize the well-being of their future offspring by all reasonable means." Why? The authors cite three reasons: increasing the child's well-being, expanding his or her self-determination, and reducing inequalities.
If this reasoning evokes the notorious "after-birth abortion" article, this may be because the authors rely upon ground broken by Julian Savulescu, Guy Kahane and John Harris, three utilitarians working in Britain who influenced the authors of the previous article. The British bioethicists are pushing "procreative beneficence" — the notion that parents should endow their baby with the best possible qualities. Malek and Daar argue that this is morally good not only because it has good consequences (ie, stronger, healthier, more intelligent kids) but it also promotes fairness and autonomy.
The immediate concern is what to do for parents who are carriers of a severely disabling disorder like autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease. It seems clear enough to Malek and Daar that these parents are morally obliged to sift through embryos to find one which does not have the disease:
"prospective parents who make an independent decision to reproduce using IVF and who know or reasonably should know they are at substantial risk for transmitting a serious genetic anomaly to their offspring may be subject to legal liability for failing to utilize PGD to avoid birthing a child who suffers grave harm from the heritable condition."
Eventually, of course, this means that the government will mandate health insurance so that everyone using IVF can avoid having defective babies. From a public policy point of view, this makes economic sense, as taxpayers will not have to support sick children. In the words of Malek and Daar, "Shifting benefit outlays for significant post-birth health care to a far less costly preconception procedure strikes us as a worthy public policy trade-off."
Malek and Daar's article was critiqued by a number of other bioethicists in the same issue of AJOB. Some thought that their proposal would lead to "reproductive police", as in Margaret Atwood's dystopian novel, The Handmaid's Tale. But others felt that they did not go far enough. All parents at risk of conceiving a sick child have a duty to use IVF and PGD, argue bioethicist Rosalind Ladd, of Wheaton College, and Edwin Forman, of Mt Sinai Medical School.
Michael Cook
- Queensland legalises 'assisted dying' - September 19, 2021
- Is abortion a global public health emergency? - April 11, 2021
- Dutch doctors cleared to euthanise dementia patients who have advance directives - November 22, 2020


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Enhancing the Effectiveness of Chemotherapy with Natural Medicines, part 2
January 28, 2014
Hosted by Dr. James Belanger
[Download MP3] [itunes] [Bookmark Episode]
Episode Description
In this show Dr. James Belanger from the Lexington Natural Health Center will continue his discussion of the mechanisms of how cancer becomes resistant to chemotherapy and how various natural medicines can overcome each one of these mechanisms. He will talk about how cancer cells can "pump out" chemotherapy and how they can repair themselves. He will discuss how cancer cells have a "life support system" that prevents them from dying after being exposed to chemotherapy. You will learn about the latest research on natural medicines which may stop these "pumps", prevent repair and promote caner cell death.
Cancer Concepts and Complements
Archives Available on VoiceAmerica Health and Wellness Channel
This show will help you gain a deeper understanding of the published research on the integration of natural medicines into conventional cancer care. We will discuss how various laboratory tests can analyze and identify weaknesses in one's immune system and how this information can be used to construct a natural treatment plan. Dr. Belanger will also discuss how various laboratory tests can analyze factors that stimulate the growth of cancer and how natural medicine may overcome these growth factors. Other episodes will review the mechanisms of how cancer becomes resistant to chemotherapy and radiation and how various natural medicines may help to overcome each one of these mechanisms. We will also explore the large body of research on diet and cancer including caloric restriction, carbohydrate restriction, omega-3 fatty acids, low animal protein diets and high plant-based diets.
Dr. James Belanger
Dr. James Belanger is a licensed naturopathic doctor and medical technologist. He has a private practice in Lexington, Massachusetts and has been working with people who have cancer for over fifteen years. He received his doctorate in naturopathic medicine from Bastyr University in Kenmore, Washington in 1998 and his bachelor's degree in medical technology in 1994 from UMASS Lowell. He is a member of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians and the Massachusetts Society of Naturopathic Doctors. In 1990, Dr. Belanger was diagnosed with testicular cancer and had three surgeries to enter remission. He was discouraged with the lack of information that he received about diet and complementary medicines to help prevent a recurrence. It was this experience that stimulated Dr. Belanger to scour the research on how cancer grows and evades the immune system. He currently uses his knowledge of laboratory medicine and natural medicine to identify and treat imbalances in his patients' immune system. Findings from some of his research published in the Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients have received awards for Best in Naturopathic Medicine in 2005.


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Section 2
An extract from Joseph Smith's history relating the words of the angel Moroni to Joseph Smith the Prophet, while in the house of the Prophet's father at Manchester, New York, on the evening of September 21, 1823. Moroni was the last of a long line of historians who had made the record that is now before the world as the Book of Mormon. (Compare Malachi 4:5–6; also sections 27:9; 110:13–16; and 128:18.)
1, Elijah is to reveal the priesthood; 2–3, The promises of the fathers are planted in the hearts of the children.
1 Behold, I will reveal unto you the Priesthood, by the hand of aElijah the prophet, before the coming of the great and bdreadful day of the Lord.
2 And ahe shall plant in the hearts of the children the bpromises made to the fathers, and the hearts of the children shall turn to their fathers.
3 If it were not so, the whole aearth would be utterly wasted at his coming.


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Many chemical reactions produce both light and heat. A burning candle is such a reaction. When a candle is lit, its flame both glows and becomes hot. It is much less common for a chemical reaction to produce light without heat. The light from such reactions is called cool light, because it is created without heat. Reactions that produce light without heat are called chemiluminescent reactions. Perhaps the most familiar chemiluminescent reactions are those that occur in living organisms. Fireflies produce light without heat by a chemiluminescent reaction. Chemiluminescent reactions that occur in living organisms are called bioluminescent reactions.
In this activity you will examine a commercial chemiluminescent chemical reaction. The reaction occurs inside a Lightstick. Lightsticks are available at many sporting goods stores, camping supply stores, and hardware stores. (Lightsticks are available from Educational Innovations) Amusement parks and carnivals often have them in the shape of bracelets and necklaces.
Open the wrapper and remove the Lightstick. | |
Describe the Lightstick. What does it look like? What color is it? How big is it? Is anything inside the Lightstick? |
Immediately before activating the Lightstick, record today's date and the time:
Date: ____________________ | Time: ____________________ |
Follow the directions on the wrapper to activate the Lightstick:
Observe the Lightstick in a darkened room. | |
Describe the appearance of the Lightstick. What is the color of the glow? Does the glow come from the entire Lightstick or only from the liquid inside the Lightstick? |
Immerse the Lightstick in a glass of ice water for five minutes. | |
Does chilling the Lightstick affect its glow? What happens to the glow? |
Immerse the Lightstick in a glass of warm water for five minutes. DO NOT USE BOILING WATER OR PLACE THE LIGHTSTICK IN THE OVEN. THE PLASTIC SHELL OF THE LIGHTSTICK CAN MELT. | |
What happens to the glow when the Lightstick is warmed? |
Summarize how temperature affects the glow of the Lightstick.
Put the glowing Lightstick in the freezer for at least 24 hours. | |
Does the Lightstick continue to glow while it is in the freezer? |
Remove the Lightstick from the freezer and allow it to warm to room temperature. | |
Does the glow come back when the Lightstick returns to room temperature? |
Observe your Lightstick periodically during the day. | |
How does the glow change with time? How long does it take for the glow to disappear? Where did you keep the Lightstick? What was the approximate temperature of the Lightstick? What could be done to preserve the glow of the Lightstick? |
In this activity you observed the effect of temperature on the glow of a Lightstick. This effect is a result of the effect of temperature on the rate of the chemical reaction that produces the glow. Like all chemical reactions, the reaction that produces the glow is slower at lower temperatures and faster at higher temperatures. In a Lightstick, the faster the reaction the brighter the glow. When the reaction in a Lightstick occurs at a faster rate, it will use up the reactants inside more quickly than when the reaction occurs more slowly. Can you devise an experiment that would test this statement?
For additional information, see CHEMICAL DEMONSTRATIONS: A Handbook for Teachers of Chemistry, Volume 1, by Bassam Z. Shakhashiri, The University of Wisconsin Press, 2537 Daniels Street, Madison, Wisconsin 53704. |
Learn More:
Fireflies use cool light (nearly 100% efficient!) to communicate with each other and to warn off predators.
Learn more in this Science Friday video
What are glow sticks, and what's the chemical reaction that makes them light up?
Chemical & Engineering News
October 19, 2021


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Cross-platform collaboration with Alfresco
The Alfresco collaboration tool lets you track documents, share content, and collaborate with team members – and it integrates nicely with Microsoft SharePoint.
Alfresco is an open source tool you can use to share web content, orchestrate workflows, manage documents, and collaborate in real time [1]. All of these features make Alfresco a suitable alternative for Microsoft's popular SharePoint collaboration system. This article provides a brief tour of Alfresco and shows how you can get started with content sharing and collaboration.
Alfresco comes in two flavors: the community version, which is free to download [2], and a commercial cloud application that lets you pay as you go. This article focuses on the free version. For more information on the commercial, enterprise version, see the Alfresco website [3].
You can download the Alfresco community edition as a complete package, along with the web server and the database. To avoid incompatibilities with port assignments, make sure you don't already have a web server running on the system, or else take the necessary steps to ensure the ports don't clash.
A custom installation option is available for more complex scenarios, such as network installation on a remote system. You can download the source code from the Alfresco website and upload the files to your web server. Then, just access the Alfresco folder via your web browser. The installation script will then take over and, after you fill in the required details, such as the database and password, the installation is complete!
Getting Started
Alfresco organizes content into sites. A site is actually a form of website with support for Alfresco's many collaboration and content sharing features. You can manage multiple sites from one Alfresco account. For example, you might have a separate site for different internal projects within your company.
When you log in to Alfresco, you will find a link labeled sites, on the upper left side of the web page. All the sites you have created can be accessed via this link, and you can also use the Sites menu to create add a new site to your Alfresco configuration.
To create a new site, just click the Create Site link in the Sites menu (Figure 1) and enter the name, URL, and description for the site in the new window. That's how easy it is – your site is ready.
As you navigate to your new Alfresco site, you will find the site dashboard (Figure 2). On the top, just below the menu bar, is a suggestion bar, which tells you about various available features. Below are several blocks on the site, which display specific information. These blocks are called dashlets. Dashlets provide a summary of the site members, content, features. As the creator of the site on Alfresco, you can customize these dashlets, and users will see the dashboard as arranged by you.
Dashlets are very useful for displaying information about users and resources. For example, the Site Notice dashlet lets you convey important information to the intended audience with minimal effort. To browse the available dashlets, click the Customize Dashboard button on the top right corner of the site dashboard (Figure 2). You can change the page layout, as well as add or remove dashlets.
Your site will also need users. Registered Alfresco users have to be invited before they can use a specific site. Each user has a role in the site, which is assigned when the user is invited to join.
To add a user to your site, click the invite button in the upper-right corner of the site dashboard (Figure 2). Before an invitation is sent to the user, you have to select a role for the user. Based on the role, the user has privileges assigned for the site.
After you create a site and add users to it, the next step is to customize the site to contain the elements you would like to include with the design. Will your team need a blog, links, data lists, or discussion groups? To customize your site, click on the More button in the upper right corner of the site dashboard (again in Figure 2) and select "Customize Site" in the drop-down menu.
The Customize Site page (Figure 3) lets you add elements to the site design. Once these features are added, they appear on the menu bar of your site. You could also enable the corresponding dashlet in order to see the feature on the site dashboard.
Document Management
When the site and its users are ready, it is time to upload documents. Alfresco allows online/offline editing of documents; document locking, version control, robust document content search, and much more.
By default, all the documents in the document library are available to users with the necessary privileges. Alfresco also offers a way to override the default privilege, and you can even manage permissions for each document separately.
On the site dashboard menu bar, click the document library
link. This link takes you to the document repository where documents are stored (Figure 4). Here you can organize the documents in your library by creating folders.
To manage permissions for a document, just mouse over the document and click More, then click the link labeled Manage Permissions. Alfresco provides an online file viewer for most common file types, so you don't have to download the file to see the content. To view the documents in the online viewer, click on the document, and Alfresco will open it.
To lock a file so that no one else can edit it until you are done, click on More and then select Edit Offline.
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Lake Buena Vista, FL (SportsNetwork.com) - The Atlanta Braves and 19 players have agreed to terms on one-year contracts, the team announced Tuesday.
Among the players were 11 pitchers: right-handers David Carpenter, Cory Gearrin, David Hale, Juan Jaime, Aaron Northcraft, Wirfin Obispo and Anthony Varvaro; and left-handers Luis Avilan, Ryan Buchter, Carlos Perez and Alex Wood.
Catchers Evan Gattis and Christian Bethancourt also agreed to deals. The other players were infielders Ernesto Mejia, Tyler Pastornicky and Elmer Reyes; and outfielders Jose Constanza, Todd Cunningham and Joey Terdoslavich.
Financial terms of the deals were not released.


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Vice President
First Lady
Mrs. Cheney
News & Policies
History & Tours
Your Government
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For Immediate Release
May 13, 2005
Vice President's Remarks at Auburn University Commencement
Beard Eves Memorial Coliseum
Auburn, Alabama
THE VICE PRESIDENT: Thank you. (Applause.) Well, thank you very much, Governor. Thank you for your kind introduction and for your service to the people of Alabama. We miss you in Congress, but I'm sure you don't miss us. (Laughter.)
President Richardson, trustees, deans, distinguished guests, faculty and staff, alumni, families, and members of the class of 2005, my thanks to all of you for the warm welcome this morning. I've been looking forward to visiting Auburn University, and to sharing this happy occasion with the graduating seniors. It's a tremendous honor to be here. And I bring congratulations to each and every one of you from our President, George W. Bush.
On graduation day I also want to congratulate the men and women who devote their professional lives to making this institution a place of excellence and achievement -- the outstanding faculty of Auburn University. And I want to join the graduates in saying thanks to the people who did so much to make this day possible, the ones who rooted for you, believed in you, prayed for you, and paid for you -- the parents of the class of 2005. (Applause.)
I know you'll always carry with you the Auburn spirit, and fond memories of your time here. You'll remember the Cater Hall call-outs; the Tiger Walk; the flight of the Eagle; and the music of the fight song played every day at noon. You'll remember many challenges as well -- hard work in the classroom, long nights in the lab or library, and all those hours spent circling the campus, looking for a place to park. (Laughter.) You'll remember those special places -- Samford Hall, Jordan-Hare Stadium, the Concourse, Toomer's Corner, the Supper Club. (Applause.) And you'll remember your senior year, for the many fine achievements in academics, research, and athletics, and for a football record of 13 and 0 which sounds a lot like a national champion to me. (Applause.)
War Eagle.
AUDIENCE: War Eagle!
THE VICE PRESIDENT: In addition, to those of you receiving your bachelor's degrees this morning, I'm told we have many men and women who have earned graduate degrees -- including a number who have earned their PhDs Their presence here reminds me that I was once a PhD candidate myself, and met all the requirements except for the dissertation. I had trouble coming up with a topic.
And your final day at Auburn, I imagine you're experiencing a mix of emotions. There is excitement at setting a high goal and reaching it -- and then moving forward to new adventures. There is also, perhaps, a bit of sadness at leaving behind this university, and this very special time in your lives. But you will always remain part of the Auburn family, and as the years pass, this university will always give you reason to be proud. In fact, I've been assured that by next year's May commencement, Auburn will be 150 years old, and 26 and 0. (Laughter.)
You're graduating this morning from one of our nation's great universities. This beautiful place in the hills of east Alabama, with its long history and 12 fine schools and colleges, has had a far-reaching influence on the life of the state and country; and generations of Auburn graduates have gone on to lives of great accomplishment in Alabama, and beyond.
I especially want to recognize the tradition of service to community and country that is fostered here. Members of the Auburn family have contributed to the defense of this nation in law enforcement, intelligence, and the armed services. These include many current or former members of the military, from personnel now on active duty in the Middle East; all the way up to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dick Myers. As we gather for this ceremony, we are thinking of the men and women in our armed forces, and we are tremendously proud of their brave service to the United States. (Applause.)
After putting in these years of hard effort as students at Auburn, something tells me you're probably not up for another lecture before you leave, so I'll keep it short. I know that it's the custom for graduation speakers to draw from their experiences and share some of the lessons they've learned along the way. So as you begin this new chapter in life, let me offer a few thoughts of my own.
There is one very practical lesson that comes immediately to mind. As you might have heard, six months ago I was reelected Vice President of the United States. And we appreciated having the Auburn University Marching Band at our Inauguration. But you may recall how I got started on this journey. It was during the campaign in the year 2000, when then-Governor Bush of Texas called to ask if I would help him find a running mate to be his Vice President. The lesson I want to share with you is this: If you ever get asked to head up an important search committee, say yes. (Laughter.)
That decision five years ago set me on a path that I was not expecting to take. I was certain my time in public office had passed. And looking back, there seems to be a pattern in my life -- the unexpected turns, the opportunities that come suddenly and change one's plans overnight.
On the day of my own graduation from the University of Wyoming, I had no ambitions for public office. If you'd asked me at the time what I planned on doing, I could have described in some detail what my next 10 years would be like. First there would have been graduate school, then wrapping up that PhD, and down the road, with some luck, a faculty position at a university.
In the short version, it all worked out very differently. Within a few years, my wife, Lynne, and I were living in Washington, D.C., beginning a journey in government and public lives that neither of us ever imagined. We count ourselves fortunate that things turned out the way they did, and as you begin your careers I want to encourage all the members of this class to consider public service. Participating in government, at any level, carries its own challenges and sacrifices, but the country needs capable men and women to make that choice. And if you ever hear the call to serve, I hope you, too, will say yes.
Many of you will leave Auburn today with definite plans of your own. And setting a plan for your life can be a good thing -- it keeps you focused on the future, and gives you a standard for measuring your progress. Yet I'll wager 10 years from now, many of you will find yourselves following a very different course, all because of an opportunity that came out of the blue.
Be on watch for those certain moments, and certain people, that come along and point you in a new direction. I think, for example, of the first time I met my friend and colleague Don Rumsfeld. It was back in the 1960s, when he was a congressman and I was interviewing for a fellowship on Capitol Hill. Congressman Rumsfeld agreed to talk to me about the possibility of going to work for him, but things didn't go all that smoothly, and in about 15 minutes, I found myself back out in the hallway. Don's impression of me was that I was kind of a detached, impractical, academic type. And I thought he was a brash young politician with a cocky attitude. And we were both right. (Laughter.)
We didn't click that day, but a few months down the road it was Don Rumsfeld who noticed my work and offered me a position in the executive branch. And later on, when Gerald Ford became President and made Rumsfeld his Chief of Staff, it was once again Don who gave me a position of great responsibility in the White House. Standing here today, I can promise that there will be people like this in your own life -- who keep an eye on you, and reward your efforts, and help bring out your strengths. Sometimes others know better than we do just what our talents are, and how we can best use them. For all the plans we make in life, sometimes life has other plans for us.
Those of us who've been around a while can also recall a few times when life took an unexpected turn, not always in a positive direction. As I mentioned a moment ago, I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Wyoming. My college experience, though, began at a place called Yale -- but I didn't finish there. Actually, instead, I dropped out after a few semesters. Actually, dropped out isn't quite accurate. (Laughter.) Was "asked to leave" would be more like it. (Laughter.) Twice. (Laughter.) And the second time around, they said, don't come back. (Laughter.)
You, too, may face some disappointing turns of your own -- times when you fall short, knowing you could have done better. And when that happens, don't give up or let your doubts get the best of you. I have met some very successful people in my day -- men and women of talent and character who have risen to the top of their fields. And it's the rare one who hasn't had a taste of failure, or a false start along the way. Setbacks in life can stop you dead in your tracks, or they can inspire you forward. Either way, you will look back on them as turning points. They are crucial days in your life, when you see the starkest kind of choice, and you know that it belongs to you alone.
One of the things I love most about our country is that we have such opportunities. There are places in the world where failure is final, and one early misstep will decide your fate forever. But America is still the country of the second chance. Most of us end up needing one. And when you're gone on to accomplish something, we can be that much more grateful.
Gratitude, in general, is a good habit to get into. It is usually a correct appraisal of our situation. Most of us are able to succeed and rise in the world because someone helped out along the way -- whether it was a memorable teacher, or a boss who handed us a great opportunity, or the person who took a chance and gave us the first big break in our career. A grateful heart is an honest understanding of all that we have been given, and all that is expected in return.
There is always the temptation to forget this -- to carry ourselves with an air of entitlement, as if good things come to us by right. They rarely do. And life has a way of working out better when we don't take things for granted, when we have a long memory of what others have given us, when we look for the blessings, great and small, that come with every day we're alive on this Earth.
For all of you, this day in the Coliseum at Auburn will forever stand out -- as a marker of gifts well used, aspirations fulfilled, and hard work rewarded. It's been my privilege to share it with you and your families. And once again, my congratulations to you all. Good luck and Godspeed to the Auburn University Class of 2005. (Applause.)
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Music Department FAQ's
- If I am accepted to the University, am I automatically accepted in the Department of Music?
- What do I perform for the audition?
- Is an accompanist required for the audition?
- Is there a music theory placement examination?
- What if I cannot attend a scheduled audition day?
- How do I apply to The University of Toledo?
- How much practice time is expected?
- I am not a music major. Am I still eligible for a music scholarship?
- Do I need to audition to participate in an ensemble?
No. Acceptance into the University of Toledo is a requirement for each student regardless of major. To be accepted in the Department of Music, you must successfully complete an audition into the music department on your major instrument/voice.
What do I perform for the audition?
The requirements for audition can be found by clicking here
Is an accompanist required for the audition?
The department provides an accompanist for vocal music auditions. An accompanist is not required for auditioning on an instrument. You may bring your own accompanist if you desire to do so. Click Visit the audition information page for details about accompanists.
Is there a music theory placement examination?
Yes, all incoming students are required to take a music theory placement exam. The test covers written and aural identification of fundamental music elements including: meters and time signatures, rhythmic values, clefs, note names, key signatures, and scales. Students who pass the music theory placement test are permitted to register for MUS 1610 Music Theory and Ear Training I. Those who do not pass the test must register for MUS 2200 Music Theory for the Non-Major.
Students with limited or no background in music theory are encouraged to consult an introductory music theory text such as the following: "Music First!" by Gary C. White, "Mastering the Fundamentals of Music" by Rebecca M. Herrold, or "Fundamentals of Music" by Earl Henry. Students who receive a score of 4 or higher on the Music Theory Advanced Placement are not required to take a music theory placement test.
What if I cannot attend a scheduled audition day?
Individual auditions can be scheduled on other days if necessary. If distance prohibits an on-campus audition, permission for submitting a recorded audition may be granted by the appropriate applied music or music ensemble faculty.
How do I apply to The University of Toledo?
Applying to UT can be done in one of several ways.
Undergraduate students have the following options:
- Option 1: Apply online. This option is the fastest, allowing you to fill out and submit your application online in one easy step.
- Option 2: Fill out a printed application Printed application forms are distributed in the mail, during visits to campus, and online as a PDF. Applications to The University of Toledo are accepted throughout the year, and admission decisions are made on a rolling basis. Refer to our Application Timeline for other dates and deadlines.
Applying to Graduate/Professional Programs
To apply for admission into the graduate program, please visit the Graduate Admission page.
What extra expenses will I have as a music student?
There are additional lab fees for private instruction (14 lessons per semester) and chamber ensemble. Students will need to purchase music for their applied lessons. Concert dress for most performing ensembles is a traditional black tuxedo for male students and a conservative black dress for female students. Marching Band students must provide their own black shoes. Your ensemble may require a specific clothing item not mentioned here, so please ask your director before purchasing anything.
How much practice time is expected?
Students in applied private music lessons are expected to practice one hour a day per credit hour for which they are registered. Performance Majors register for a 4 credit hour lesson. Music education majors register for a 2 credit hour lesson. Large ensembles meet as a class 2 or 4 days per week. Marching Band rehearses 4 days a week plus game days.
I am not a music major. Am I still eligible for a music scholarship?
Scholarships are available for ensemble participation. You must audition in order to be considered for a music scholarship.
Do I need to audition to participate in an ensemble?
The band, choir, orchestra and jazz ensemble directors require auditions for acceptance into their ensembles. To audition, contact the director of the ensemble you are interested in:
- Dr. Jason Stumbo – Director of Bands (contact for Orchestra also) – 419.530.2217
e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com - Dr. Gunnar Mossblad – Director of Jazz Ensemble 419.530.4555
e-mail: email@example.com


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Yorkshire RHS expert talks of Giant Hogweed dangers
IT sounds like something straight out of Harry Potter, and with its distinctive white flowers it can look quite attractive.
But although Giant Hogweed might seem like a harmless plant it's actually anything but and in some parts of the UK this toxic and invasive weed is on the increase.
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Hide AdIt's been back in the news after two boys in Bolton were hospitalised with burns injuries after touching the plant, while in Scotland a 10 year-old girl was left with horrible burn marks after picking up a piece of the plant near Loch Lomond.
Both cases have led to calls for warning signs to be put up in areas where the invasive plant is running rampant.
But how common is it and what should people be looking out for? According to the Royal Horticultural Society it can be found in most parts of the UK. Heracleum mantegazzianum - or Giant Hogweed as it's better known - is particularly common along riverbanks and on wasteland and can even be found in people's gardens.
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Hide AdThe plant, a close relative of cow parsley, has white flowers, thick bristly stems and can grow beyond 16ft (5m) tall.
Ailsa Henderson, one of Yorkshire Wildlife Trust's living landscape officers, says dealing with the toxic plant is difficult because each plant can produce thousands of seeds.
"These seeds can lie dormant for up to 10 years and then they just pop out which makes it tricky to deal with," she says.
The Trust leads Yorkshire's invasive species forum and Giant Hogweed is one of the plants they are trying to help control. "We've been tackling this for several years and we're training up volunteers to help us identify where it's popping up," she says.
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Hide AdThey have created a map, which can be viewed online, that shows where some of the local hotspots are, such as along the River Aire in Leeds. "We want people to know where Giant Hogweed is in their area and this is a good way of doing that."
In those places where it's well established it's also on the rise, as Paul Cook, curator at RHS Garden Harlow Carr in Harrogate, points out.
"You tend to find it in less accessible places," he says. "In some parts of the county it's increasing and in others, where it's been controlled, it's going down."
It's attractive appearance can lull unsuspecting people who stumble across it into a false sense of security.
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad"It's very distinctive but a lot of people have forgotten just how horrible it can be," says Paul.
Those who encounter Giant Hogweed certainly don't forget it in a hurry. "When the sap or juice from the stem comes into contact with the skin it can cause intense irritation, particularly in the sunny weather.
"It doesn't last very long but it can feel like you're skin is being burned."
Giant Hogweed actually originated in the mountains of Central Asia and was introduced into Britain by Victorian plant collectors.
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Hide AdIt contains toxic components in the leaves, stems, seeds and flowers which can be transferred to skin by touch. These don't cause burning alone - but instead make skin hyper sensitive to sunlight, which can then cause rashes, burns and even severe blistering.
The effects don't necessarily start away, sometimes taking 24 hours to appear and the advice for anyone who touches Giant Hogweed is to wash the area of skin with soap and water, and keep it covered.
With the school summer holidays about to start Paul says it's a timely reminder for adults and children to be on the lookout.
"We're not one of the worst counties for Giant Hogweed, but there are still odd patches of it here and it's a good time to raise awareness and highlight what an irritant it can be."
Read more...


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Late-Breaking Abstract Submission for the 55th ASH Annual Meeting and Exposition, December 7-10, 2013, New Orleans, LA
Use the links on the left to navigate this page or access further information on the ASH Web site. Complete call for abstracts information can be found on the ASH site (accessed via the "Abstracts Information" link to the left). EligibilityTo submit an abstract, the following criteria must be met:
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Technical RequirementsThe electronic submission system is compatible with PC Windows and Apple computers and with most browsers, including Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer, Safari, and Netscape. However, Mac users are encouraged to use Mozilla Firefox. Before you beginHave the following information available: Abstract Information
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Jânio da Silva Quadros
Our editors will review what you've submitted and determine whether to revise the article.
- Born:
- Jan. 25, 1917, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso, Braz.
- Died:
- Feb. 16, 1992, São Paulo (aged 75)
- Title / Office:
- mayor (1985-1988), São Paulo
- president (1961-1961), Brazil
- governor (1954-1958), São Paulo
- mayor (1953-1954), São Paulo
Jânio da Silva Quadros (born Jan. 25, 1917, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso, Braz.—died Feb. 16, 1992, São Paulo) was a Brazilian politician who unexpectedly resigned the presidency after serving only seven months (Jan. 31–Aug. 25, 1961). A colourful and sometimes eccentric populist, he campaigned with a broom as a symbol of his pledge to "sweep out corruption."
Quadros graduated from the University of São Paulo in 1939. He practiced law and taught Portuguese history and literature before entering politics in 1945. After Quadros was elected to the São Paulo city council (1947), he adopted the broom for his successful 1950 campaign for state deputy of São Paulo. As mayor of São Paulo (1953–54), he balanced the city budget in less than a year, and he had similar economic success as governor of the state (1954–58). A charismatic campaigner, he attracted the votes of the poor by affecting the image of a commoner with a rumpled appearance but also retained the support of much of the business community and other economic elites.
As president, Quadros banned bikini swimsuits, cockfights, and advertising in movie theatres, and he created a stir in foreign affairs when he reestablished diplomatic relations with the Soviet Union, refused to support U.S. President John F. Kennedy's Bay of Pigs invasion of Cuba, and decorated the Latin American guerrilla leader Che Guevara. Quadros stunned the nation with his sudden resignation, enigmatically citing the "terrible forces" conspiring against him. In 1965 the military ousted his successor, and in 1968 Quadros was stripped of his political rights and sent into exile. After receiving amnesty in 1980, he returned to São Paulo, where he unsuccessfully ran for governor. He later served another term as mayor of São Paulo (1985–88) and hoped to become governor again before ill health forced him to retire from politics. His 1985 mayoral victory was at the expense of Fernando Henrique Cardoso, whose subsequent stint as president (1995–2003) would last far longer than Quadros's truncated term.


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Google Fellow Jeff Dean gave a keynote talk at LADIS 2009 on "Designs, Lessons and Advice from Building Large Distributed Systems". Slides (PDF) are available.
Some of this talk is similar to Jeff's past talks but with updated numbers. Let me highlight a few things that stood out:
A standard Google server appears to have about 16G RAM and 2T of disk. If we assume Google has 500k servers (which seems like a low-end estimate given they used 25.5k machine years of computation in Sept 2009 just on MapReduce jobs), that means they can hold roughly 8 petabytes of data in memory and, after x3 replication, roughly 333 petabytes on disk. For comparison, a large web crawl with history, the Internet Archive, is about 2 petabytes and "the entire [written] works of humankind, from the beginning of recorded history, in all languages" has been estimated at 50 petabytes, so it looks like Google easily can hold an entire copy of the web in memory, all the world's written information on disk, and still have plenty of room for logs and other data sets. Certainly no shortage of storage at Google.
Jeff says, "Things will crash. Deal with it!" He then notes that Google's datacenter experience is that, in just one year, 1-5% of disks fail, 2-4% of servers fail, and each machine can be expected to crash at least twice. Worse, as Jeff notes briefly in this talk and expanded on in other talks, some of the servers can have slowdowns and other soft failure modes, so you need to track not just up/down states but whether the performance of the server is up to the norm. As he has said before, Jeff suggests adding plenty of monitoring, debugging, and status hooks into your systems so that, "if your system is slow or misbehaving" you can quickly figure out why and recover. From the application side, Jeff suggests apps should always "do something reasonable even if it is not all right" on a failure because it is "better to give users limited functionality than an error page."
Jeff emphasizes the importance of back of the envelope calculations on performance, "the ability to estimate the performance of a system design without actually having to build it." To help with this, on slide 24, Jeff provides "numbers everyone should know" with estimates of times to access data locally from cache, memory, or disk and remotely across the network. On the next slide, he walks through an example of estimating the time to render a page with 30 thumbnail images under several design options. Jeff stresses the importance of having an at least high-level understanding of the operation of the performance of every major system you touch, saying, "If you don't know what's going on, you can't do decent back-of-the-envelope calculations!" and later adding, "Think about how much data you're shuffling around."
Jeff makes an insightful point that, when designing for scale, you should design for expected load, ensure it still works at x10, but don't worry about scaling to x100. The problem here is that x100 scale usually calls for a different and usually more complicated solution than what you would implement for x1; a x100 solution can be unnecessary, wasteful, slower to implement, and have worse performance at a x1 load. I would add that you learn a lot about where the bottlenecks will be at x100 scale when you are running at x10 scale, so it often is better to start simpler, learn, then redesign rather than jumping into a more complicated solution that might be a poor match for the actual load patterns.
The talk covers BigTable, which was discussed in previous talks but now has some statistics updated, and then goes on to talk about a new storage and computation system called Spanner. Spanner apparently automatically moves and replicates data based on usage patterns, optimizes the resources of the entire cluster, uses a hierarchical directory structure, allows fine-grained control of access restrictions and replication on the data, and supports distributed transactions for applications that need it (and can tolerate the performance hit). I have to say, the automatic replication of data based on usage sounds particularly cool; it has long bothered me that most of these data storage systems create three copies for all data rather than automatically creating more than three copies of frequently accessed head data (such as the last week's worth of query logs) and then disposing of the extra replicas when they are no longer in demand. Jeff says they want Spanner to scale to 10M machines and an exabyte (1k petabytes) of data, so it doesn't look like Google plans on cutting their data center growth or hardware spend any time soon.
Data center guru James Hamilton was at the LADIS 2009 talk and posted detailed notes. Both James' notes and Jeff's slides (PDF) are worth reviewing.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
4 comments:
- Jeff Kubina said...
Great post Greg; any chance his talk was video taped?
- October 22, 2009 at 8:52 AM
- Greg Linden said...
Hi, Jeff. I don't think this LADIS 2009 talk was taped -- James Hamilton might know for sure -- but Jeff Dean's WSDM 2009 talk was taped and is available:
A fair amount of the material appears to be the same in the two talks. - October 22, 2009 at 9:52 AM
- Hyunsik Choi said...
Really informative post! Thanks a lot.
- October 23, 2009 at 7:06 AM
- Harisankar H said...
A more recent video lecture done at Stanford is available at http://stanford-online.stanford.edu/courses/ee380/101110-ee380-300.asx
- May 17, 2011 at 9:40 AM
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JK Rowling defends decision over Johnny Depp movie role
A number of fans had expressed their disappointment that Depp was to appear in the forthcoming film after he was accused of domestic violence by his ex-wife Amber Heard last year.
Harry Potter writer Rowling, who writes the spin-off film series, said that those stories "deeply concerned" her at the time, while Depp was filming his small part in the first film, and that she and director David Yates did consider recasting the role for Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes Of Grindelwald.
Hide AdHowever, she said that, while she understands that not all fans will be satisfied, she is "genuinely happy" to have Depp play a leading character.
She wrote in a statement: "When Johnny Depp was cast as Grindelwald, I thought he'd be wonderful in the role.
"However, around the time of filming his cameo in the first movie, stories had appeared in the press that deeply concerned me and everyone most closely involved in the franchise.
"Harry Potter fans had legitimate questions and concerns about our choice to continue with Johnny Depp in the role. As David Yates, long-time Potter director, has already said, we naturally considered the possibility of recasting."
She said she understands why "some have been confused and angry" that Depp was not recast, and that not being able to speak openly with fans about the issues "has been difficult, frustrating and at times painful".
She added: "However, the agreements that have been put in place to protect the privacy of two people, both of whom have expressed a desire to get on with their lives, must be respected.
Hide Ad"Based on our understanding of the circumstances, the filmmakers and I are not only comfortable sticking with our original casting, but genuinely happy to have Johnny playing a major character in the movies."
She continued: "I've loved writing the first two screenplays and I can't wait for fans to see The Crimes Of Grindelwald.
Hide Ad"I accept that there will be those who are not satisfied with our choice of actor in the title role. However, conscience isn't governable by committee."
Rowling concluded: "Within the fictional world and outside it, we all have to do what we believe to be the right thing."
Warner Bros issued a statement in support of the decision to keep Depp in the film.
Depp and Heard split in April last year after 15 months of marriage amid claims of domestic abuse by Depp.
They later issued a joint statement saying there was "never any intent of physical or emotional harm".


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Former Guns N' Roses, AC/DC Drummers Join John Bonham Tribute Concert
Led Zeppelin's John Bonham was always a drummer's drummer, and more than 30 years after his death, "Bonzo"s beats are still leaving their mark on percussive musicians.
A notable list of Bonham disciples — among them Steven Adler (formerly of Guns N' Roses), Simon Wright (ex-AC/DC) and Vinny Appice (a Black Sabbath veteran) — are scheduled to perform in West Hollywood, California, during the Bonzo's Birthday Bash tribute concert on May 31, which would have been Bonham's 64th birthday.
Backed by a band dubbed The Moby Dicks, each celebrity drummer will have the chance to play a favorite Zeppelin song on a Bonham replica drum kit. "There are no rules other than to have fun putting your own groove and character into your song choice," says event host/drummer Brian Tichy, whose credits include albums by Foreigner and Whitesnake. "It's such a unique night, seeing how all these great drummers approach the same drum set making it their own."
Other scheduled participants include Frankie Banali (Quiet Riot), Glen Sobel (Alice Cooper) and Carmine Appice (Rod Stewart).
Tickets for Bonzo's Birthday Bash, taking place at West Hollywood's House of Blues, go on sale May 3.


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Swimming Proto-Birds?
During the past decade, numerous discoveries have been made that have confirmed the hypothesis that birds evolved from dinosaurs. These fossils have given paleontologists important insight into how adaptations like feathers evolved, but one of the most hotly debated topics in paleobiology is how birds began to fly. Some scientists prefer a "ground up" model in which feathered dinosaurs began jumping into the air, but others think a "trees down" hypothesis (where feathered dinosaurs would have started gliding first) is more plausible. There once was another hypothesis, however, involving bird ancestors that lived along an ancient shoreline.
In 1920, the zoologist Horatio Hackett Newman published his textbook Vertebrate Zoology, and in it he proposed a unique idea for the origin of birds. Newman thought that the reptilian ancestors of birds had the beginnings of feathers in elongated scales, and if these bird ancestors jumped off cliffs to dive after fish, these scales could have aiding them in aiming their strike. If they could flap their arms, so much the better, and so flying birds would have evolved from these divers. Flightless birds like penguins, by contrast, would have evolved from similar reptiles that used their arms to flap underwater.
To bolster his case Newman even supposed that the earliest known bird, Archaeopteryx, was adapted to climbing rocky cliffs at the shore and had teeth adapted for catching fish. He did not have proof for his views, but there did not seem to be much evidence that directly refuted it. At the time he proposed this hypothesis, there were very few fossils to test his ideas.
Unfortunately for Newman, his hypothesis was not well accepted at the time and was soon relegated to the scientific dust bin. New evidence has also failed to throw support to his ideas, but this is not to say that we should ignore what Newman wrote. His hypothesis is important to understanding how scientists form ideas based upon the evidence available. Swimming proto-birds might seem a bit silly to us now, but it is an interesting tidbit of science history.


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I enjoy the Millionaire Matchmaker as much as the next couch potato, but there's something about Patti Stanger's "tough love" critiquing that irks the hell outta me. It's her outright rejection of short and /or curly hair, and the blanket statement that men with money are not attracted to these attributes. I'm not the only one who's just a little bit annoyed by this – the lovely ladies at Naturally Curly have created a Facebook Group dedicated to stopping the "curl bashing".
But from my vantage point, I take issue with her views for two reasons:
1) It's just not true. I have extremely curly hair, which I wore long for quite some time, and I now wear super duper short (basically, I asked my stylist for a little boy's haircut, haha). And here's what I know, from personal experience: 10 times out of 10 men very much prefer my hair curly to straight. And – to my surprise, actually – I've gotten more attention wearing my hair short than long. Imagine that.
2) The statement is actually kinda racist. I mean, think about it. If you're a Black woman, your hair is curly by nature. Sorry world, that's just how it is. So Patti seems to be advocating relaxers (you know, those chemicals that can burn through a plastic cup if left for a couple days…those chemicals that make hair break and fall out - super great stuff) and curling irons (straight from the horse's mouth, on her Facebook page: "I like stylish curly/wavy hair, but my millionaire men don't. So, go buy a flat iron...). Either that, or she's saying men are fundamentally NOT attracted to us. Boo for Black women, tough luck, we won't find love because our hair isn't desirable to men as a species. Because all men think alike, after all – or at least men with money do.
Maybe Patti doesn't understand the damage that straightening a Black woman's hair can reek - both to her hair and, in my opinion, to her sense of self. Or, more likely, maybe she does and she just doesn't give a crap. Either way, she's wrong. So wrong.