text:
Open source software projects may not typically have the marketing budgets necessary to match launch events like the one Microsoft just held for Office 2013, but that doesn't mean their products are any less valuable.
Canonical surely came close in terms of hype with its Ubuntu phone announcement just after New Year's, but this week Black Duck Software brought a brand-new crop of open players to light.
Following up on last year's list, Black Duck released its "2012 Open Source Rookies of the Year" on Wednesday, highlighting 10 key up-and-comers worth watching over the coming year.
This year's 'Rookies'
Ready for a run-down? Here are 10 projects to keep an eye on:
1. Ansible, a configuration management, deployment, and ad-hoc task execution tool.
2. Chaplin.js, an architecture for JavaScript applications that uses the Backbone.js library. "It provides a lightweight and flexible structure that features well-proven design patterns and best practices," Black Duck explains.
3. GPUImage, an iOS library that allows users to apply GPU-accelerated filters and other effects to images, live camera video, and movies.
5. InaSAFE, which produces realistic natural hazard impact scenarios to enable better planning, preparedness, and response.
6. Yahoo! Mojito, a JavaScript MVC framework for mobile and Web applications running on client and server.
7. Sidekiq, which provides simple, efficient message processing for Ruby.
8. Syte, a packaged personal site with social app integrations including Twitter and GitHub.
9. Twitter Bower, a package manager for the Web that aims to make it easy to install images, CSS, and more, including managing dependencies.
10. TypeScript, a language for application-scale JavaScript development that offers a typed superset of JavaScript that compiles to plain JavaScript.
Black Duck did also name an honorable mention, it's worth noting: DCPUToolChain, which is an assembler, compiler, emulator, and Integrated Development Environment for the DCPU-16 virtual CPU.
JavaScript in the spotlight
At least as interesting as the above list of top picks, meanwhile, are the overriding trends Black Duck drew out of its data, which was drawn from Ohloh.net and the Black Duck KnowledgeBase with a weighted scoring system focusing on project activity, commits pace, project team attributes, and other factors.
Included among those three key trends were a growing focus on JavaScript and mobile as well as increasing use of Python and Ruby.
Black Duck President and CEO Tim Yeaton summed it up: "The 2012 Rookies demonstrate how community innovation, particularly within the JavaScript and mobile projects, mirrors the needs for innovation in Web experiences, mobile devices, and enterprise applications."


text:
Painting Guidlines
Improper disposal of painting wastes is harmful to the environment, hazardous to public health and against the law. Waste materials from painting activities include excess paint, used containers, painting equipment, rags, used thinner, cleanup water, and paint chips.
Since preventing pollution is much easier than cleaning up after the fact, the Town of Carrboro have adopted ordinances for stormwater management. These local ordinances prohibit the discharge of any pollutants into the storm drainage system, streams, lakes, or other surface waters (Article 4 Section 5). You can find more information on Carrboro's Illicit Discharge Program here.
Following the best management practices (BMPs) for the painting industry that include the proper handling, storage and disposal of materials can prevent water pollution from your business and prevent fines. You may already be implementing many of the best management practices. However, if you discover any potential problem areas, please consider using one or more of the recommended BMPs.
Paint Prep and Removal
- Read manufacture MSDS and clean up instructions.
- Protect or cover storm drains when pressure washing a structure to remove paint.
- Spread a tarp to capture paint chips when removing old paint.
- Paint chips and dust from non-hazardous dry stripping and sand blasting may be swept up and disposed of as trash.
- Chips and dust from paint containing lead is hazardous waste (most paint prior to 1978 contains lead). Follow safe work practices when working with lead paint. Sweep up waste and dispose of as hazardous waste.
Outdoor Surface Treatments
Wood preservatives, pavement seal coating, and other outdoor surface treatments commonly contain metals, pesticides, solvents, or polymers that are hazardous materials. Handle and dispose of them properly, as follows:
- Apply only as much of the chemical as the surface can absorb or as needed to cover the paved area.
- Soak up excess chemicals with absorbent material or rags rather than allowing them to flow to the storm drains or soak into the soil.
- If the chemicals spill, clean up promptly using dry techniques.
- When sealing pavement, prevent the sealant from reaching the gutters or drains. Use absorbent booms, or stuff rags into storm drain openings.
- When treating a roof with wood preservative or sealant, line the gutters with rags. Dispose of the rags properly: as hazardous waste if the substances you are using are hazardous.
- If you clean a roof or sidewalk before applying preservative, sweep thoroughly to remove loose particles first and then wash with water if necessary.
- Collect wash water from downspouts or drains where possible and remove particles.
- Avoid applying surface treatment chemicals during the wet weather season.
Painting Clean Up
- Never clean brushes or rinse equipment any place where the wastewater may run into a street, storm drain or stream.
- For water-based (latex) paint, rinse and dispose of wastewater to the sanitary sewer.
- For oil-based paint, use paint thinner for cleaning.
- Use up excess paint or donate it to a school, club or charitable organization that can use it.
- Water-based (latex) paint may be disposed of in the trash once it is completely dry. Oil-based paint and aerosol cans are hazardous waste and cannot be disposed of with regular trash.
Wastewater Disposal
- Discharge wastewater from water-based (latex) painting activities only into a drain connected to the sanitary sewer system.
- Wastewater from oil-based painting activities is hazardous waste and cannot be disposed of into the sanitary sewer.
- Do not lift a sewer manhole to discharge wastewater – it is illegal to do so.
- Check with OWASA about other requirements for discharge to the sanitary sewer. Call (919) 537-4343.
- To avoid spills and exposure to storm water, place lids on paint cans when not in use and store them under cover.
- When transporting paint containers in a vehicle, properly secure the containers to ensure that spills do not occur.
- Carry spill response materials on business vehicles in case a spill occurs.
- Do not hose down outside spills.
- Report spills and leaks that enter the storm drain system to 919-913-2999 or 911.
Employee Training
- Train all employees on BMPs and spill procedures.
- Create Project specific stormwater management plan before beginning activities and review with employees at start of project. (Sample Project Stormwater Management Plan link below)
- Post information on BMPs where they are accessible to staff.
- Report illegal dumping by calling 919-913-2999 or 911.
If your project or site location poses questions or concerns for your activities please contact the Stormwater division at 919-913-2999 or firstname.lastname@example.com and a staff member can answer your question and/or provide technical assistance.
- NCDEQ Household Hazardous Waste: https://deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/waste-management/hhw
- NCDEQ Lead-Based Paint Waste Guidance: https://files.nc.gov/ncdeq/Waste%20Management/DWM/HW/Guidance%20Document%20table%20documents/2020/Lead-Based-Paint-Waste-Guidance.pdf
- EPA Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program: https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-renovation-repair-and-painting-program
- Painting Contractors Association: https://www.pcapainted.org/
- Town of Carrboro GIS Maps: https://townofcarrboro.org/142/Geographic-Information-Systems

subset: commoncrawl


text:
University students in Ireland are selling themselves for money.
'Escort Ireland,' the country's biggest online escort agency has even set up web pages dedicated to independent escorts at various universities.
Read more Irish news here
The "University College Cork (UCC) Escorts" page advertises "independent escorts and escort agencies in University College Cork" with pictures of female escorts beneath a picture and description of the college.
A similar page can be found for Queens University in Belfast. Elsewhere on the site, it states, "Dublin 9 is also home to one of Ireland's biggest universities, DCU (Dublin City University), and, for this reason, student escorts are sometimes based here."
A Dublin-based co-ed on the site describes herself as "Angel Angie" and quotes her current occupation as "university student."
Another student calls herself 'Lily', and her profile states: "Lily is an escort with a penchant for the finer things in life. In her spare time, this blonde bombshell enjoys socialising and is studying fashion at university which helps to explain her magnificent taste and style."
It goes on: "Lily is sure to turn heads on an evening out, something which always goes down well as she loves to be the centre of attention and any man who is willing to pamper her will enjoy her company, wherever you happen to go."
Read more Irish news here
A spokesperson for Ruhama Ireland told the Sunday Independent: "What is worrying is that this escort website is using universities in Ireland as a marketing strategy and has the potential to lure young girls who may be under financial pressure into the sex trade.
"We would caution and warn any young woman who would consider going into the sex trade to support herself financially.
"The sex trade is about violence, abuse and nobody comes out of it unharmed. So we would be concerned and this is a worrying development that a website that advertises prostitution is using universities in their marketing strategy and has a potential to lure vulnerable young women into the sex trade.
"People should not be deceived by these websites, and it is a fact that not everything that is presented in these websites is true. These may not be students. And most may be linked to organised criminal gangs. So we would caution and warn any young girl who would be lured by this."


text: Welcome to our Laptop Store. We are the best laptop store in Siddapura Road, Chennai providing preeminent repair services for all Lenovo laptop models. Our team of proficient experts will help you to troubleshoot your Lenovo laptop issues at an affordable price. At our laptop store Siddapura Road, professionals can find the perfect solutions for technical, hardware or software problems such as hard disk, memory (RAM), motherboard or overheating problems of all Lenovo laptop models. With the help of our happy customers, our extended laptop repair services can spread over other cities in Chennai such as Adayar, T Nagar, Anna Nagar, OMR, Tambaram and Velachery. We can also offer laptop repair services in areas around you. For instance, if you are looking for an authorized laptop service center in Siddapura Road and we are here to help you for 24/7.Call us today 9500066668, 9003166661.


text:
Dirrty Girl: Christina Aguilera Unleashed Her 'Kinky Side' On Vanessa Hudgens!
Nov. 8 2012, Published 8:00 a.m. ET
They were both child stars who got their big break on the Disney Channel.
But Christina Aguilera wanted to have something else in common with Vanessa Hudgens -- her boyfriend. According to a new report, the 31-year-old mom wanted Hudgens to "come back home with her" and beau, Matt Rutler.
The cheeky ex-Voice coach allegedly hit on the High School Musical actress at a Beverly Hills party, according to the new issue of Star magazine.
A source tells Star that the Dirrty threesome proposal came last month at the Samsung Galaxy Note II launch bash, which was held at a private residence.
The fellow reveler said Aguilera looked like "a hot mess in black stretch pants and wrinkled white T-shirt."
"There were vodka bottles strewn all over her table, and she seemed to be glued to them," the source said.
"Eventually Matt looked like he had taken on the role of babysitter."
The atmosphere heated up when Aguilera reportedly put the moves on Hudgens.
The source says: "She spent a lot of time on the dance floor gyrating next to Vanessa, who looked like she was having fun with the situation in a good-natured way. And the more Christina drank, the more her kinky side seemed to come out.
"It really seemed like she was playing the role of seductress – with Vanessa as her target!"
But Hudgens refused to go home with Aguilera and her boyfriend of two years.
"Out of the blue Christina stumbled over to Vanessa and begged her to come back home with her and Matt!" the partygoer tells Star. "Vanessa was taken aback but smiled and politely declined the offer."
For the full story, pick up the new issue of Star magazine — on newsstands Thursday.
'Princess' Christina Aguilera Hogs The Spotlight In Fishnets And Tiara


text:
Written in Singapore and despatched to TechRepublic at 3Mbps over wi-fi at London Heathrow.
In any mission-critical situation, it's vital to have rules, procedures, checklists and cross-checks, and the tried-and-tested must prevail over innovation, guessing and relaxed decision-making.
No matter how many times you have done something, no matter how confident you are, you follow procedures. You check and double-check, never skip a step, and you never wing it.
This thoroughness applies to software and hardware changes and upgrades just as much to flying an aircraft. Procedures and checks are there to reduce the likelihood of human error. Because if things go wrong, they go badly wrong.
So I wouldn't be surprised if there is now a new phrase in the industry manual: "Doing an RBS". You'd have had to be living on a desert island not to have heard of the UK IT fiasco affecting millions of Royal Bank of Scotland customers, who were left without money and banking facilities for days. The bank has set aside £125m ($200m) to cover the cost of the crash.
The UK's Financial Services Authority has just ordered RBS to appoint an independent expert to probe the disastrous sequence of events of last June. Whatever the inquiry concludes, this episode was clearly a self-inflicted disaster that registered an 8 on the IT Richter scale. If the bank had lost customer data it would have been a 9 or a mass extinction event.
It seems impossible to find out what went wrong; RBS chief executive Stephen Hester has denied that cost-cutting was behind the failure. He pointed to a software upgrade managed in Edinburgh, but whatever the true cause, it seems someone really took their eye off the ball and an upgrade went ahead with some significant deviation from agreed procedures.
When you look at the industry best practices, and what should be done, the golden rules are simple:
- Have at least three backup copies of all data in different physical locations giving immediate, fast and slow recovery abilities.
- Maintain copies of all variants of the operating system and applications.
- Apply strong version-tracking and control.
- Record and save all upgrades.
- Run three parallel systems online, on, off and a cold reserve.
- When loading anything new, test it thoroughly.
- Never load anything untested, uncertified, or unsupervised.
- Before the day, load everything onto the hot standby and do as much testing as possible for at least 24 hours.
- When satisfied that all is well, bring the hot standby into frontline service and demote the old online system into standby cold mode.
- Fire up the cold system and promote it to hot standby status.
- When the operational system has proved stable, upgrade the software of the hot and cold standby systems.
Needless to say all these measures have to be managed by well-trained and experienced people. You dare not delegate any of these steps to a raw team.
The real details behind the RBS failure are unlikely ever to be made public, but I can guarantee that many banks, finance houses and companies will now be paying special attention and checking their procedures.
No one needs the damage, notoriety and shame of doing an RBS.
I wouldn't be at all surprised if the continuous cost and people cuts suffered by RBS were conducted by those who know nothing about technology, systems and operations.
And I think we can also assume that some other bank or company is about to experience a similar sequence of events for the same reasons and through the same mechanisms.


text:
Our favorite sound, probably out of all of them, is the ones made by aliens when they're being horrifically slaughtered in their second film, Aliens. It is, we think, based on a heavily distorted recording of a trumpeting elephant, sped up to make it absolutely terrifying in a way only the panicked, high-pitched scream of a flailing pachyderm can be.
In second place it's the dense, tinny shred of a pulse rifle. Every Aliens vs Predator game has understood the importance of replicating the most aurally recognisable aspects of its characters, and this release mostly continues that tradition. It sounds incredible, although we were a bit disappointed that many of the Predator's sound effects appear to have been taken from the AvP movie, as opposed to the original Predator film. It's a small issue, and one that won't bother many, but we're particularly fond of the original Predator's vision and vocal sounds, which were replicated perfectly in Aliens vs Predator 2 back in 2001, so it's a bit weird that they went with many of the weaker, "updated" sound effects. We really missed the wonderful whip-crack sound of the Predator vision kicking in.
Still, the overall sound design is rich enough to make us want to say words like "aural soundscape" and "crunchy sonic feast". Here's a game that's mostly about inflicting horrendous injuries on deserving creatures, and it's one in which you'll appreciate every sinewy crunch, gargled howl, bloody slosh and hollow snap. Aliens vs Predator is sickeningly violent – more so in one of the three campaigns than the others, admittedly – in ways that are borderline comical and dancing on the periphery of decency.
Lovely, spine-tearing, eye-socket spearing madness then. Where the films lost credibility the moment they went PG, Rebellion's AvP wears its M-rating with pride. In the area of brutality and scariness, these are Schwarzenegger's Predators and Ripley's aliens. Sadly, these are the same one-dimensional barking space marines you've seen a thousand times before, but the point stands – this game doesn't flinch in showing you brutality on a level not seen since the early films. The good ones.
Three campaigns straddle the same plot arc, giving you three perspectives from which to view the various goings-on, and three markedly different experiences. The Marine draws the short straw: a panicking, fleshy sack of prey permanently seconds from being scythed in two by a swishing xenomorph tail. It's a campaign of fear, into which Rebellion stir a steady stream of ratcheted tension. The cautionary beeping of your motion tracker is such a recognisable device that it hardly needs explaining, but here you go: the closer a moving object is to you, the higher pitched and more rapid the beep. The thing generates fear, and sounds just as you remember from James Cameron's Aliens.
Registering false positives in nearly every darkened corner, the environment takes pleasure in suggesting random shadows might contain dripping alien death. You'll be yelping at vents, alarmingly shaped shadows and dangling bits of wire which, in a case of misjudged engineering, look identical to the tails of lackadaisical, ceiling-dwelling aliens.
The Alien campaign, on the other hand, is a reduced affair. Weapons are replaced by tooth and claw, and the unique ability to climb on any surface allows you to stalk marines from the darkness like a pervert Spider-man.
Behind door number three is the Predator campaign, starring a more technical character who boasts thermal optics, camouflage, a plasma cannon, proximity mines, a big spear and a sharpened Frisbee. He can leap great distances: holding down the focus button projects a cursor onto platforms you're pointing at, and, if it's a valid spot, hitting jump will cause him to leap like a badass. Some may find this mechanic restrictive or too compartmentalized, but we enjoyed the ease in which we jumped around the environment.


text:
June 27, 2013, Fairfax, VA—Americans for Limited Government Vice President of Public Policy and Communications Rick Manning today commented on documents obtained by Judicial Watch via the Freedom of Information Act from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau revealing a massive credit file data collection program on some 5 million Americans without their consent, including credit scores, purchases, ZIP code, year of birth, and a "persistent consumer identifier making it possible to follow consumers over time":
"The discovery that the Obama Administration is aggregating credit file data on millions of Americans is hardly surprising since Congress authorized this collection in the Dodd-Frank financial legislation. The law empowers unaccountable bureaucrats at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and also the Office of Financial Research to gather personal financial data upon request from financial institutions.
"In light of other recent disclosures of government data mining at other agencies, this is particularly troubling. Even if what the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is getting is randomly selected and anonymized, and even if they only want the information purely for research purposes to monitor credit flows, this is still intrusive information being obtained without the American people's consent.
"Taken as a whole, all of this data collection amounts to tagging, cataloguing, and monitoring individuals, turning them into nothing more than lab rats to be optimized and incentivized into government-preferred behaviors. The information will probably be incredibly useful to central planners — which is precisely why the American people need to begin asking what the government really wants it for."
Interview Availability: Please contact Americans for Limited Government at (703) 383-0880 ext. 103 or at email@example.com to arrange an interview with ALG experts including ALG President Nathan Mehrens.


text:
Union Pearl was the first English display typeface, designed to be used for fancies-headings and words of distinction. It is thought to have been cast by the somewhat obscure but very English Grover type foundry in London. The first known example of its appearance in print was in 1708, and its name ostensibly referred to a double pearl of gigantic proportions. The letters were large (double pica-22 points) and designed with open, round nodules that bear some resemblance to pearls. Although it's hard to imagine it now, at the time it stood out in print as luxurious and ostentatious-perhaps not quite so over the top as the oversized union pearl, but it certainly added flourish. The great typographer and printing historian Stanley Morrison reminded us that the font's name echoed the "Acts of Union," which united Scotland and England in 1707. Benjamin Franklin owned a font of Union Pearl for his press, but no one has found proof that he actually used it. Perhaps it didn't quite match his "Poor Richard" alter ego. To my knowledge, this font has never been digitized, so it is not available electronically...yet.
My husband and I are lucky enough to own our own metal font of Union Pearl, one of the first we purchased for our newly-acquired Chandler & Price Pilot press in anticipation of our wedding. It appeared on the cover of the program for the ceremony, and was a lovely way to celebrate our own union. My husband had read both Morrison's and John Lane's articles about the font and did a fair amount of research trying to find someone who was willing to part with the letters. Luckily, a generous printer did furnish us with the metal type that has been our favorite ever since. We named our venture the Ampersand Press, anticipating the "and" we later became.1
The term union, applied to a pearl, was by the early eighteenth century a standard way to refer to a very large pearl of very great value, worn only by the very rich or very royal. Perhaps (and this is just my own conjecture), there is a connection to the Unionidae freshwater mussel family, parts of which are often used as the nucleus in regular (marine) pearl production. One of the early references to a union pearl was in Pliny the Elder, who wrote of Cleopatra's bet with Marc Antony over who could consume the most costly meal. Her flagrant consumption (and he meant that literally) of "an union" dissolved in vinegar, won the contest. Antony may have lost the wager, but I'm sure his meal tasted much better. The cover of Stacy Shiff's new biography of Cleopatra is a representation of the famous beauty with pearls scattered through her hair and wearing a pearl necklace and earrings (recently reviewed in the New Yorker).
You have surely noted that the address for this blog doesn't in fact include the word, pearl. And, as I'm sure you've realized, it puns on the homophones pearl and purl and celebrates both the fanciful, ornate, embellished pearl and the humble purl. Indeed, purl and pearl enjoy entwined roots. The Oxford English Dictionary gives us ten different definitions for purl as pearl, beginning in the fourteenth century. Spelling in English was not standardized until the early nineteenth century, but it is clear that embroiderers, lace makers, and yes, knitters, all used the term for aspects of needlework ranging from metallic wire flourishes to the crevice between ribs. Embroidered purls-and lace purls, for that matter-most often appear as ornamental edging. Think of a ribbon that has a decorative edge of tiny bumps, in which a few of the weft threads extend beyond the selvedge in a regular pattern. Sewn purls also create decorative edging. Sew a line of small stitches very close to an edge, then draw the thread quite tightly, and it will form a series of tiny puckers-a decorative border of pearl shapes.
Bohus Stickning "Guld" design (detail) |
I wanted to make my knitted U an investigation of the purled pearl, and was inspired by the most luxurious and complex purl stitches I have seen, in Bohus Stickning. I first laid eyes on Bohus design in an article by Margaret Bruzelius; Knitting Around the World, from Threads, which was illustrated with pictures of vintage Bohus Stickning sweaters, several owned by the great Elizabeth Zimmermann. Her Bohus Yoke Sweater was an ode to the Swedish Knitting cooperative and its amazing designers. Zimmermann also wrote about the charm of the Bohus purl in the March section of her Knitting Almanac. Bohus Stickning revealed to me the purl stitch as a sophisticated design feature, rather than merely as a background ingredient. So my knitted accompaniment also celebrates the purl stitch in a very faint, very distant echo of Bohus Stickning-style purl stitchery. Bohus designers discovered a long time ago that there's no better way to draw out the beauty of the purl stitch than with a nice, fuzzy angora. They wisely used a wool-angora blend to allow the colors to mingle, but still retain integrity. But I threw aside subtlety for 100% angora in seven different colors on a background of 30% angora. I was trying to mimic the metal font itself in shades of gray and black. The yarn was so voluptuous that I had to trim it a bit so that it could be "read."
About the printing project
I wanted to print something that makes judicious use of the English font, Union Pearl, while celebrating an English knitter of epic stature who sang the praises of the purl stitch. Who else but Elizabeth Zimmermann, whose centennial year we knitters around the globe now celebrate? She taught us all to love the garter stitch and its bumpy purls, and gave us so many pithy, but warm confidences. Here is the one I love the best: "Really, all you need to become a good knitter are wool, needles, hands, and slightly below-average intelligence. Of course, superior intelligence, such as yours and mine, is an advantage." Everyone who reads her work feels as if he or she were having a personal, intimate conversation with a generous friend over tea and yarn. "EZ" gives you her personal assurance that all challenges can be met with ease, and in reading her, you have no doubt she is absolutely right. Discovering Knitting Without Tears has been a milestone moment for countless knitters, including me, and it continues to open doors nearly forty years after its publication.
This is a small letterpress keepsake-two colors of oil-based ink printed on watercolor paper. It went through several iterations as I changed my mind and, well, how shall I say? made a few mistakes along the way. Letterpress is fine, detailed work-much more time-consuming than can be imagined-especially for a novice like me. But I relish the opportunity to summon Gutenberg and delve into this centuries-old process. From the selection and arrangement of tiny pieces of metal (for which I now, alas, require reading glasses), to their careful placement in a rectangular format (somehow jammed together, somehow kept in place vertically and horizontally), to their inking & printing in the press machine-it is all a wonder.
Union Pearl's "U" (photo reversed horizontally for easier reading) |
Colophon (what is a colophon?)
This keepsake was printed in the cool, autumnal days of 2010 on 140 pound Rives watercolor paper in a very limited edition. It celebrates Union Pearl through its sparing employment in capital form (witness: the "R" in Really, and the "E" and "Z" in EZ's name). Art Ribbon Border (designed by the American Type Founders and cast by the Dale Guild, which, like Union Pearl, has not been digitized) ornaments the text. 12 pt. text fonts include both Centaur, designed by Bruce Rogers after Nicolas Jenson's fifteenth-century Venetian typefaces, and which first appeared in print in 1915, and Arrighi, designed by Frederic Warde in 1925 after the letterforms of the sixteenth-century Italian scribe and typographer, Ludovico degli Arrighi. The latter two fonts, fortunately, are available electronically from our friends at Adobe. You won't find the name "Arrighi," however. It is packaged with Centaur as its italic form.
Type Pearls
- John A. Lane, "The Origins of Union Pearl" Matrix 12 (1992): 125-133.
Stanley Morison, "Decorated Types" The Fleuron, Vol. VI (1928): 109, 111. - Stephenson, Blake & co. Union Pearl: A Seventeenth-Century Decorated Type (Sheffield, England: Stephenson Blake, ca. 1948)
- Rowe Mores, Edward. A Dissertation Upon English Typographical Founders and Founderies (London, 1778)
- Berry, Johnson & Jaspert. Encyclopaedia of Typefaces. 55th Anniversary Ed. (Cassell, 2009)
Description of John Lane's article in Matrix Luc Devroye's "Remarks" about the Stephenson Blake Type Foundry" (2008) Lead Graffiti: Union Pearl
Stephen Fry's investigation of the Gutenberg Press, on BBC4 Printing in 1947 (video) Briar Press: THE source on the Internet for information on letterpress printing Lots of their lovely "cuts & caps" Chandler & Price Pilot press Letterpress Documentary Charming time lapse video of printing on a Chandler & Price pilot press
Pearl Pearls
Union Pearl Co. (Japan) American Museum of Natural History, exhibition on pearls Especially: Pearls in Human History
Discovery News: "How Cleopatra Won Her Bet"
Purl Pearls
- Elizabeth Zimmermann bio
- Elizabeth Zimmermann's Schoolhouse Press (now run by her daughter, Meg Swanson)
- EZ Titles
- Bohus Stickning & the purl stitch, by Chrissy Gardner, for Knitty
Miscellaneous Pearl
- "Union Pearl" is also the name of a British cargo ship operated by Union Transport, Ltd. All the ships in its fleet have names that begin with "Union."
1Stanley Morrison wrote about Union Pearl in a much cited article in The Fleuron. Stanley Morison, "Decorated Types" The Fleuron, Vol. VI (1928), pp. 109, 111. Further evidence has since come to light to correct some of Morrison's initial assertions. According to John A. Lane, who did remarkable research on the history of Union Pearl, its first known use in print was in The Observator 24-28 January, 1708. It appeared in an ad, "Scriptographia." John A. Lane, "The Origins of Union Pearl" Matrix 12 (1992): 125-133. In 1992, when Lane published his article in the ultra-deluxe letterpress(ed) annual Matrix, fonts of Union Pearl could still be bought from the Stephenson Blake type foundry.


text:
Budda Amplification Introduces the AS Preceptor Alex Skolnick Signature Amplifier
Anaheim, CA (January 24, 2013) – Today Budda Amplification announces the release of its new AS Preceptor Alex Skolnick signature guitar amplifier. This 3-channel amp marries exceptional tonal quality
Anaheim, CA (January 24, 2013) – Today Budda Amplification announces the release of its new AS Preceptor Alex Skolnick signature guitar amplifier. This 3-channel amp marries exceptional tonal quality and versatility with superb build construction and unique styling.
Perhaps best known as the guitarist for the multi-platinum band Testament, Skolnick is a stylistically versatile player, performing in a variety of other projects including his jazz trio, The Alex Skolnick Trio, and a forthcoming world music project, Planetary Coalition. The new Budda AS Preceptor suits his demanding tonal requirements.
The epitome of authentic tone and modern sophistication, the Budda AS Preceptor was crafted to both Budda and Skolnick's exacting standards, resulting in an amplifier that can range from searing to pristine and everything in-between.
With three completely independent channels, a 120-Watt power section driven by four EL-34 tubes, and a preamp consisting of seven dual triode 12AX7 tubes, the AS Preceptor also features dual 5U4 rectifier tubes and a solid-state rectifier. Budda's patent-pending PowerPan variable rectification control allows players to open uncharted tone territory by selecting tube rectification, diode rectification or anywhere between the two.
All three of the AS Preceptor's independent channels - Clean, Rhythm and Lead - include separate three-band EQ, Reverb, Resonance, Presence, and true bypass effects loop with send and return levels. Each channel also features OVER-BOOST, a stompbox-style lead boost that engages an additional tube-driven gain circuit to give players a supercharged boost. The effects loop on channel 2 can also be used as a global loop for incredible versatility in effects routing.
The included nine-button foot controller switches all three channels digitally via MIDI, effects loops and OVER-BOOST functions, as well as Master Reverb and Master Boost, which is a second Master Volume control that can be used to boost the overall volume of the amp.
The AS Preceptor also features a half-power switch for operating the amplifier in either 60- or 120-watt mode. With a back panel that features an amplifier chain section with power-amp inputs and a slave output, impedance selector and MIDI input and output for use in MIDI-switching rigs, this amp is at home as the centerpiece of a larger system.
• 120 Watts into 16, 8 or 4 ohms with half-power switch
• 3 channels: clean, rhythm and lead
• Five 12AX7 preamp tubes used in three completely independent channels
• One 12AX7 tube used in tube-driven stomp box style OVER-BOOST circuit
• One 12AX7 tube used as the phase splitter driving the power amp
• Four EL-34 power amp tubes and convertible to use four 6L6GC tubes
• LED indication of correct output tube biasing
• Two 5U4 rectifier tubes convertible to use 5AR4/GZ34 tubes
• Unique PowerPan control allows panning between solid state and tube rectification
• Power amp can use 6L6GC or EL-34 tubes (plus KT66, KT88, 5881 and 6CA7 with re-biasing)
• Rectifier can use 5U4, 5AR4 or GZ34 tubes
• Full / Half Power switch
• Independent preamp EQ (Bass, Mid, Treble), Presence and Resonance controls per channel
• Silent LDR MIDI controlled channel switching
• High quality audio grade resistors and poly caps throughout
• Three effects loops with independent Send and Mix controls and Channel or Global options
• Real spring reverb with separate Reverb level control per channel
• Footswitchable Master Boost with user defined boost level
• Slave Out and Preamp Out/Power Amp In link jacks
• Massive custom designed output transformer
• Overboost stompbox style lead boost on each channel
• Slave output/Power amp input
• Cabinet impedance switch (4, 8 or 16 Ohms)
• Heavy duty Power and Standby toggle switches
• High and low level 1/4" inputs
• Ceramic tube sockets
• Specially designed 10-button multi-function foot controller (included)
• Stores 9 custom presets, and provides extensive MIDI control for automation
• Features, specifications and pricing are subject to change without notice.
For more information:


text:
10) More fun to complain about them to your friends.
9) Guys who actually like you just aren't challenging or exciting.
8) When you do date nice guys, they turn into jerks anyway, so why not
save time and go for the jerk in the first place?
7) You won't get as emotionally attached to a jerk, so you'll be more in
6) All the other women want them, so they must be worth having.
5) Affection means more when it comes from a guy who doesn't normally
give it.
4) Guaranteed to cheat on you so someone else can endure his lack of
lovemaking skills most of the time.
3) No need to feel guilty for abusing or deceiving them.
2) Jerks will actually tell you when they don't like what you're doing
instead of getting mad about it six months later.
1) Looking for someone you can't trust, and won't care about too much,
who will abuse you mentally and financially, butyou don't know any


text:
NFP Sunday Blitz
Something happened to the Titans after their Week 9 loss to the Bengals. They were 4-4 at the time, a mediocre team with no running game and not a lot of hope.
Their star player, Chris Johnson, was a candidate for biggest disappointment of the NFL season. He had held out for a new contract during training camp, then been given the richest running back deal ever, and then proceeded to run like some undrafted free agent. Javon Ringer was taking away his carries.
Against the Panthers in Week 10, Johnson started out like he had in most games. Seven of his first eight carries were for two yards or fewer. But the Titans were in control of the game, and in the fourth quarter he helped put away the Panthers by running for 64 yards, averaging 7.1 yards per crack.
Now, Johnson has had 100 yard rushing performances in three of his last four games, and 40.3 percent of his rushing yards have come in the last two weeks.
The Titans, meanwhile, are 7-5, in the thick of contention for a playoff spot as they prepare to host the Saints Sunday.
I have a theory about the Titans. They might be a better team over the last month of the season because Johnson was off early. They have survived what could be their most difficult period, going 5-5 while Johnson averaged 3.2 yards per carry, and still are standing.
First-year coach Mike Munchak might have guided the Titans through the hardest part of their schedule.
It's a theory that Mike Munchak does not disagree with. "The run game was expected to be your strength and it wasn't the first half of the season," Munchak told me. "If we're going to run the ball well, it will give us a chance to make a move here. That's how it's worked out the last three, four weeks."
The Titans learned to win without getting much of a contribution from their best player. How did they do it?
It began with Munchak establishing his program in his first full year. He wanted his players to understand they were a part of a tradition just like players in Green Bay and Oakland are. The nine-time Pro Bowler for the Oilers and hall of famer talked with reverence about the history of the Titans and Oilers. "I wanted them to take pride in what they were doing, so they would play for this organization and the guys who came before them," he said."
He also has stressed all season that they be professional. Make a commitment. Be consistent. Don't make it more complicated than it is.
The Titans bought in, in part because their new leader bought in. The Titans aren't contenders if they don't sign Matt Hassebeck as a free agent.
"We needed a guy like him," Munchak said. "I didn't know what kind of leader he'd be, but that's the thing that stood out the most from the first day he walked in. He takes charge. He's been to a Super Bowl, Pro Bowl. Guys know who he is. You get respect there. He took control of the tempo of practice, and his confidence you could see from day one. For a first time head coach, there is no better thing than to have a quarterback who can be a leader for you. That's what's Matt has done. He's a big part of why we're in the conversation still."
The Titans did not plan on asking the 36 year old who was learning a new system to do too much. But with Johnson not feeling it, and with big time receiver Kenny Britt out for the year, they had no choice but to lean on Hasselbeck. And mostly, it was Hasselbeck who showed the Titans they can win in other ways.
A veteran leader like Hasselbeck is just what the Titans needed.
"He took a lot of young receivers under his wing and instilled a lot of confidence in them," Munchak said. "They realized he would throw the ball to them if they did the right thing, if they were consistent with what they did. He spread it around early in the season. That's kind of what carried us for the most part."
Hasselbeck and offensive coordinator Chris Palmer were able to bring out the best in receivers Nate Washington and Damian Williams. And slowly, Johnson started coming around.
Munchak believes some of Johnson's burst was missing as a result of his holdout. "Missing camp, it definitely affected him," he said. "We knew it would. We just didn't know how much. Is that the only reason we weren't running well? No. But to be a running back in this league, you have to be in a certain kind of condition and shape, have a certain spring in your legs."
The Titans have seen that spring again recently. "I think you're always going to see a boost of energy in a player when he has some success," Munchak said. "When you put a couple good ones together, it gives you that extra adrenalin, that extra confidence. I'm sure he was shaken at one point as to why it wasn't working. He has his strut back."
This is Johnson time. In December games through his career, Johnson has averaged 104.8 yards. "In December, if you can run the ball well it can take a lot of pressure off the team," Munchak said. "The run game energizes the whole team, offense and defense."
There is no question the Titans are energized. And dangerous, very dangerous.
Things I Didn't Used To Know
Andre Carter looks good in a Patriots uniform.
*Andre Carter's career has been revitalized in New England and the 32-year old has been one of the best defensive ends in football this year. Carter himself acknowledges that he wondered if he was finished at the end of last season. He may have been finished if he had been forced to continue to play outside linebacker in a 3-4 front for the Redskins, who will host the Patriots Sunday. Carter is a natural defensive end in a 4-3, but there is no place for him in a 3-4. The Patriots were interested in Carter way back in 2001, when the 49ers made him the seventh pick in the draft. In fact, coach Bill Belichick spent a day with Carter at Cal before the draft. But the Patriots were running a 3-4 primarily at that point, so Carter really wasn't a fit. Now, Belichick tells me Carter has performed well because he has the play strength to hang in there against tackles, he hustles, he's in very good condition, he's smart and he is gifted.
*Mike Sherman likely will make his return to the NFL soon. Sherman, who was fired as head coach at Texas A&M, has drawn interest from other colleges but he has the itch to get back in the league. He could be a candidate for the head coaching position in Jacksonville, as his 57-39 record with the Packers is pretty attractive. If Sherman does not get an NFL head coaching position, he could end up as an NFL offensive coordinator.
*Vikings head coach Les Frazier quietly is getting more and more involved in defensive game planning and play calling in an attempt to revive his injury-decimated defense. Frazier's job is not believed to be in danger, but it's possible some or all of the coaches on his defensive staff could be sacrificed.
*If, as expected, Todd Haley does not survive in Kansas City, Josh McDaniels could end up with the Chiefs three years after many thought he would land there. Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli could hire his old buddy from their New England days to be his head coach—if he could sell McDaniels to Clark Hunt. Or, Pioli could hire a defensive minded head coach and make McDaniels the coordinator, assuming McDaniels is fired in St. Louis. Aside from the Pioli connection, another reason McDaniels makes sense on the other end of Missouri is he has a strong relationship with Matt Cassel. In fact, the quarterback and his former offensive coordinator still talk frequently.
*At a time when some rookies are wilting, Justin Houston is emerging. The Chiefs linebacker has made steady progress all season and the coaching of Gary Gibbs and Romeo Crennel is starting to pay off. Houston had three sacks—his first three of the season—last week, but he has been getting close to the quarterback in recent weeks, so Kansas City coaches were not surprised by the third round pick's breakout game in Chicago.
*One of the biggest surprises of the NFL season is Brodrick Bunkley, who is playing great ball for the Broncos after the Eagles let him go and a trade to the Browns fell through. Scouts say Bunkley looks like a new player in Denver and has been one of the keys to the Broncos' defensive revival. Broncos coach John Fox tells me Bunkley has taken to the coaching of Wayne Nunnley. Even though Bunkley does not have exceptional size, he's playing with exceptional leverage. Bunkley also has been a great locker room guy for the Broncos.
My Sunday Best: Remaining Games
We're getting down to nitty gritty time. Here are my best games that are left on the regular season schedule, in order.
Dec. 11
Saints at Titans. This is a game the Titans need to win to prove they can play with the big boys.
Giants at Cowboys. Who wants the NFC East? Anyone? These two teams will play again on New Year's Day in what could be a better game, depending on what happens between now and then.
Dec. 18
Patriots at Broncos. The networks were fighting over this game for a reason. Tebow versus Belichick, and it means something. Best game left on the schedule.
Dec. 19
Steelers at 49ers. Finally, a decent Monday night game.
Dec. 24
Giants at Jets. It isn't often that these rivals play in a meaningful contest.
Dec. 25
Bears at Packers. If Jay Cutler and Matt Forte can come back, the Bears probably stand the best chance of any team of ending the Packers' bid for a perfect season.
Dec. 26
Falcons at Saints. Drew Brees could be standing in between the Falcons and the playoffs.
Jan. 1
Lions at Packers. You know Ndamukong Suh and the Lions are going to bring some attitude to Lambeau.
Titans at Texans. A lot could be at stake in this AFC South rivalry game.
Scout Talk: Defensive Ends in the 2012 Draft
The 2011 draft was an exceptional one for pass rushing defensive ends, as eight were chosen in the first round (Von Miller and Ryan Kerrigan technically are outside linebackers), and another three went in round two. The 2012 draft looks to be well stocked with defensive ends at the top as well, with five players looking like potential first rounders at this point and another four being talked up by scouts as second round players. Two of the players in the discussion, Whitney Mercilus of Illinois and Nick Perry of Southern Cal, are underclassmen.
Mercilus has a chance to overtake Quinton Coples of North Carolina as the top defensive end in the draft, depending on how he works out. He is a productive player with excellent athleticism and length. Coples has been the No.1 ranked DE since the preseason, and his combination of size and athleticism and speed is very impressive. Coples did not have a real productive year, however, and scouts question his effort level.
The other ends who could go later in the first round are South Carolina's Melvin Ingram, who shows some enticing flashes, Marshall's Vinny Curry, who explodes off the edge, and Clemson's Andre Branch, who has improved his stock significantly this year.
Perry, a powerful end who can be crafty, would be at the top of the next group if he comes out. Nebraska's Jared Crick was once thought of as a first rounder, but his stock is down a bit after battling through some injuries this season. He still has enough size and tenaciousness to be a second rounder.
Boise State has a pair of potential second round picks in Shea McClellin and Tyrone Crawford. McClellin, a productive, instinctive hustler, could settle in as a 3-4 outside linebacker. Crawford is more of a power end who has good athleticism.
Other ends to keep an eye on include Alex Okafor of Texas, Cam Johnson of Virginia, Frank Alexander of Oklahoma, Jacquies Smith of Missouri, Jack Crawford of Penn State and Jake Bequette of Arkansas.
One Man Yelp: John Lennon
John Lennon: gone too soon.
In honor of the 30th anniversary of the assassination of John Lennon last Thursday, I'd like to share my favorite Lennon solo songs. Sad to think that Lennon would have had 30 more years of making music had he lived. Lennon, whose final interview three days before his death was released here,
http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/john-lennons-last-interview-20111208 would be 70 years old today.
1. Beautiful Boy. Touching song about a father comforting his young son that shows a side of Lennon we never saw before. Paul McCartney has said this is one of his favorite Lennon songs.
2. Jealous Guy. This underrated Lennon classic actually was written, or partially written, during the Beatle years but not recorded until he went solo.
3. Watching the Wheels. This autobiographical Lennon song about his five year hiatus from music was released after his death.
4. I'm Losing You. Lennon was in Bermuda and feeling isolated from Yoko Ono when he wrote this song.
5. Whatever Gets You Through The Night. This brassy number, amazingly, was Lennon's only No. 1 solo hit. Helping with vocals is Elton John.
6. Imagine. Ranked the third best song of all-time by Rolling Stone Magazine, behind Satisfaction by the Rolling Stones and Like a Rolling Stone by Bob Dylan.
7. Grow Old With Me. This was one of the final songs Lennon wrote, and he never recorded more than a demo version, but it has become a wedding reception staple. Little known fact: Paul, George and Ringo tried to record this song with Lennon's vocals from the demo as they did with Free As A Bird and Real Love, but the quality of Lennon's demo was not sufficient.
8. How Do You Sleep. This angry song, written in the wake of the Beatles' breakup, is directed at Sir Paul.
9. Working Class Hero. "A working class hero is something to be." This piece is a little Dylan-esque.
10. Give Peace A Chance. Lennon's first solo song became an anti-war anthem in the 1970s.
What solo Lennon songs would you add to the list?
Hot Reads
*Why do we hate Tim Tebow? Jen Floyd Engel eloquently answered the question. And David Haugh tells us why we should admire him.
*If they build a statue for Frank Gore, don't they need to carve the heads of Bill Walsh, Joe Montana, Jerry Rice and Ronnie Lott into Mount Diablo?
*Maybe this is why Ray Edwards wanted to box—these kinds of blows are illegal in that sport.
*I guess this means the Lions won't be taking my advice on serving something other than pretzels to the media at halftime.
*I didn't join the stampede of people who bought Packers stock last week, in part because of stock advice I learned long ago: buy low; sell high. In fact, now would be a good time to sell Packers stock if you owned any.
*Wait a minute, is Andy Dalton talking about retiring already?
Dan Pompei covers pro football for the Chicago Tribune. Follow him at Twitter@danpompei


text:
FireSteel Army 2.0 w/ Emergency Whistle - 12,000 strikes
Originally developed for the Swedish Department of Defense, our legendary Swedish FireSteel® is the original fire starter. Being the best, however, means always having to push the envelope. The result is a new generation with an improved striker that makes it even easier to build a fire in any weather, at any altitude. Our second generation Swedish FireSteel 2.0® also features a new design, a color matched lanyard, and a built-in emergency whistle. The Swedish FireSteel's dependability and intense, close to 3,000°C (5400°F) sparks, have long made it a favorite of survival experts, hunters, fishermen, and campers. It has also found its way into cabins and backyards as a foolproof way to light stoves and gas barbecues.
- Durable—lasts approximately 12,000 strikes.
- Improved stainless steel striker and ergonomic handles.
- Built-in emergency whistle.
- Produces a 3,000°C (5,400°F) spark and works when wet.
- Compact and lightweight.
- Lights campfires, stoves, gas-barbecues, etc.
- Bright spark—can be used as emergency signal.
- Compatible with Leave No Trace ethics.


text:
Sam Rubin -- Attacks TMZ Over Sam Jackson Story ... TMZ HITS BACK
Sam Rubin Attacks TMZ Over Sam Jackson Story ... TMZ Hits Back!!!
Sam Rubin is not having a good day ... and it just got worse.
Hours after the KTLA reporter got his ass REAMED by Samuel L. Jackson for mistaking him for Laurence Fishburne during a live interview, he tried to take TMZ to task for the way we covered the story.
Problems is, TMZ doesn't like being taken to task ... especially when we're right.
That's when Evan stepped in and engaged Rubin in an enlightening civil discussion about their respectful disagreements ... just kidding ... THEY WENT OFF ON EACH OTHER!!!!!
It was all out war on "TMZ Live" .... ya gotta check out the clip!!!!!


text:
When Randy Adams was negotiating for 770,000 thousand dollars to be the city police chief, he joked in an e-mail about "taking all of Bell's money." That's just one of the ugly revelations emerging from hearings into a scandal that's made Bell the national poster child for local corruption. Part-time council members were paid 100,000 a year for meetings they almost never attended—all arranged, says the District Attorney, by two principal defendants: former Chief Administrative officer Robert Rizzo and his former assistant, Angela Spaccia. Their compensation amounted to 1.5 million and 850,000 respectively. With all but one council member facing charges and no meeting since last year, who's in charge?
Hearings Continue for Current and Former Officials of the City of Bell
- Ruben Vives - Reporter, Los Angeles Times
- Assemblywoman Cristina Garcia - chair of the California Legislative Women's Caucus - @AsmGarcia
- Kurt Owens - President, Bell Police Officers' Association


text:
This was published 13 years ago
Have modern brides forgotten feminism?
In public, she was the perfect mother of the bride. But, inside, she was torn. April Fraser asks why have women reverted to weddings that feminists fought against?
By Sunday Life
In many ways, I was an outstanding mother of the bride. I smiled and supported and suggested. I accepted all decisions about the guest list. I praised the choices of colour scheme and table layouts. I did none of the expected interfering. But, in truth, that part was easy: I had no opinions. In other ways, of course, I was useless. I could not provide the reassuringly confident judgments needed on flower combinations or style of photography or lettering on the wedding invitations.
I avoided the three-day full-on hen's party, and struggled to summon up the enthusiasm required to sustain a 160-kilometre round trip to view a potential bridesmaid dress in a particular sub-shade of the selected midnight blue.
Having spent the '70s fighting the common assumption that a traditional wedding was every girl's dream, I was stunned to discover that it seemed to have become exactly that. I had failed to take in that the traditional wedding had made such a spectacular comeback and, more shockingly, that it had resurrected itself with (almost) all the gender-role trimmings in place.
How had that happened? In the '70s, I naively thought we were fighting off gender assumptions not only for ourselves but also for women of the future. Why should it be the man's job to propose? We just agreed to get married. Why should I advertise my unavailability when he did not? I had no engagement ring. Most publicly of all, why should I be given away by a man? I remember enjoying our small visual contribution to the feminist cause as my mother and I walked down the aisle together.
And then, more than 30 years later, what did I find in my daughter's 21st-century wedding organiser? That if the bride's mother is a widow, the bride should be given away by "a relative of mature years, an uncle for example". Oh, and that the toastmaster should refer to the bride's mother in the absence of the father as "Mrs John Jones".
I can hardly claim to have been the most rebellious bride of my era, though. I did wear a white dress (bought off the peg); I did have two bridesmaids (in summer frocks); and the bridegroom did wear a suit (wide-lapelled, flared brown pinstripe, clashing beautifully with the best man's mauve). I reassured myself that we embraced those traditional elements to appease our parents. Now we, in the parental role ourselves, are embracing them again, only this time to appease our daughters.
For ageing feminists like me, our daughters' decision to go for the full froth-and-flowers function can be baffling - even something of a betrayal. My three strong and independent daughters and their friends expect to be proposed to, advertise their status with expensive engagement rings and agree that it is the groom's duty to decide on the honeymoon destination. They also seem prepared to plan the wedding details for months. The wedding industry, of course, has risen magnificently to the occasion and expectations seem to have grown exponentially. In the 1970s, our photographer stayed for an hour, did three other weddings on the same day and delivered the proofs by the end of the reception. Now the photographic event begins with a prenuptial photo shoot, followed by dawn-to-dusk digital recording of the day itself.
Alongside this growth in expectations is a similar growth in cost. The average Australian wedding apparently comes with a $50,000 price tag. Saddled with student debt as they often are, and often saving for a deposit on a house, why does this generation think it appropriate to spend that sort of money on one day? I can't imagine that they will look at their wedding photos any more frequently than we have looked at our - so much less expensive - ones. I am sure it is not the $2000 cost of the dress that makes the bride look beautiful. And do the couples enjoy their day so very much more than we enjoyed ours?
Perhaps it's because that is their peers' expectation, too. They are as much a product of their times as we were of ours. For us, getting married was still a rite of passage. For most of us it still marked the official moment of leaving home, the start of living together, and therefore it brought a huge change in our circumstances. A wedding probably did not mark the start of a sexual relationship, but it did mark the start of the public recognition of the sex.
Perhaps that is the difference. My daughter has not had to creep across the landing. She had been living with her now husband for some time before their wedding. Getting married was not a growing-up moment in quite the same way.
If the event is no longer a rite of passage, maybe the day itself has to take on greater significance: it needs to be bigger because the transitional moment itself is smaller. If it is to have the ceremonial solemnity that matches, and justifies, the investment in time and money, old traditions need to be revitalised, including those that depend on gender roles.
Maybe there is a more positive interpretation - that our children can afford to play gender-specific roles at the wedding because in reality they all assume an equality in marriage that we were still fighting to establish. But I can't help feeling a bit uncomfortable with the knowledge that my daughters and so many of their peers, male and female, have been persuaded by a successful industry that they need to act out ancient inequalities to celebrate a modern union and pay through the nose for the privilege.
*April Fraser is a pseudonym.
Guardian News & Media 2010 with Sunday Life


text:
Hot Food Van Insurance
Welcome to the Hot Food Van Insurance page of our website. We are a major small business insurance broker based in the North east of England who specialise in Caterers Insurance. We can offer special and often unique rates for caterers insurance throughout the UK.
Click on the button above for a Quote or Call 0191 519 4000.
Hot Food Van Insurance – What we offer!
Cold and Hot Food Van insurance for Vans and trailers
Premiums from as low as £200
Choice of Cover for Hot Food Van Insurance
Choose Comprehensive,Third Party Fire & Theft or Third Party Only
For almost all Hot and Cold Vehicles
including Burger Vans, Sandwich Vans, Fish and Chip Vans, Jiffy Trucks, Coffee Vans, Ice Cream Vans, Mobile Shops, Refrigerated Vans and Catering Trailers.
Fixtures and Fitting Cover…
Hot food van insurance cover automatically includes Fixtures and Fittings
Mirrored No Claims Discount…
Leave your discount on your existing policy and we will allow it on your hot food van insurance
Caterers Liability Insurance…
Public and Products Liability Insurance for cover against accident injury food poisoning and contaminated food. Get a Quote for caterers liability Insurance
Catering Trailer Insurance
We also offer cheap quotes with wide cover for catering trailers. We give insurance cover on both mobile and static catering trailers.
Why choose… My Best Insurance Quote for your Hot Food Van Insurance?
At My Best Insurance Quote we can provide Hot Food Van Insurance quotations which can often beat price comparison sites. You can speak to one of our friendly advisor's who are here to help. We are not a call centre so we can give you a personal service coupled with competitive rates and you can usually speak to the same person twice.


text:
The City Council will hold a meeting at 5:30 p.m. Monday at the City Council building to discuss the Chattanooga Village Highway 153 plan. The $100 million mixed-use site was approved this week by the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Regional Planning Commission. It will go before the council in upcoming weeks. Many community members have opposed the proposed development.
The Chattanooga City Council approved early voting sites for the next city election in an 8-0 vote Tuesday night, doubling the number of satellite sites.
The council approved having the Hamilton County Election Commission open as an early voting location, and four satellite sites -- Brainerd Recreation Center, Northgate Mall, Bethlehem Center in St. Elmo and a location in Lookout Valley.
Councilman Russell Gilbert brought up the idea of opening a third satellite location, saying that many elderly and handicapped people would have problems going to Amnicola Highway if they lived in the southern part of the city.
"If we're going to take it to three, I'd like to take it to four and put one in Lookout Valley," said Councilwoman Deborah Scott.
Councilman Peter Murphy said he had been told the cost of setting up two Hamilton County election sites would be $3,000 to $4,000.
The cost of the March 2013 election is projected to be about $130,000 without early voting sites.
Councilman Manny Rico asked if the additional money for the additional election sites was within the city's budget.
"I don't think three to four thousand is going to capsize the ship of city government," Murphy replied.
The Hamilton County Election Commission had requested a week ago that no early voting sites be opened because of low voter turnout. But voter records show a third of the city's voters voted early during the last election.
In other news, the City Council voted 6-2 to approve on first reading changes to the City Charter that would eliminate some archaic language.
City officials said examples of the language include the mayor being allowed to have a city band.
Scott objected to approving the ordinance now, saying she wanted the city's judges to have time to read over the changes.
The council will vote on the measure again next Tuesday during its regularly scheduled business meeting.
Contact staff writer Cliff Hightower at email@example.com or 423-757-6480. Follow him at twitter.com/cliffhightower or facebook.com/cliff.hightower.


text:
i got jumped at a death by stereo / as i lay dying show at the shelter in detroit by 3 courage crew members, for being drunk. security made me leave right after... it was about 4 years ago... not so fun. havnt fucked around at a hardcore show since. them boys dont play around.
good , learned your lesson kids who jump around and swing there fist, and kick are GAYYY go to a nice punk show you dont have to worry about security and booze and drugs are accepted
haha. that was was exactly my problem... im used to punk shows, and beating the shit outta people. i got in there, was wasted like i said, and had never been to a hardcore show so i didnt know any better, i thought they looked stupid swinging fist and shit. so i got a little crazy and they jumped my ass. last show i went to before that was casualties a f-minus about a year before that
well one time, me and some buddies went to some, outside party. in some part downtown and so where just chillen, then all of a sudden theres a BIG ASS group of at least 20 people crowding around eachother, and we heard "FUCK YOU" "NO FUCK YOU" "ILL FUCKING STAB YOU" and just all of a sudden, the group just BROKE OUT, people running left and right. people chasing other people. so me and my friends are just like, "dayuuuummm son" watching everyone fight, then a group of 4 come running to us saying "HEY theres people over there LETS fuck em up!" so yeah, they chase us, for like ever, and we got away... it was scary though! it was a close one!
i have never been jumped but my friend was walkin home from school and 5 black guys thinking they were tough jumped him, My friend broke one guys jaw, anothers arm, anothers nose.
yeah but it was always like his friend wanted to fight me right afterward after i kicked his friends ass i was a G back in the day yo
there have been attempts to jump me but good thing my homies are almost always with me.. The other night some Dope fiends tried robbin my boys at the trap down the block but on there way out the door one of my boys pulled the K out on them. I heard the gun shots while I was in my room playin SKATE on 360. My boys told me about it the next day Gun shots and burn outs are sorta regular things in my neighborhood tho.
got jumped by 5 random black dudes for wearin a red tee one day. The drove by and started yellin Whats wit the red ? parked then rushed me, i caught the first one with a right hook and dropped him, but 5 is too much, walked away talkin shit after with a backwards nike sign in my cheek. fuck it
shit i dident get jumped but ppl in school dont fight by dere self i got jumped in da bloods ^5^ but ya me and my crew diss crip walked up so my friend said sometihin he said ill pop your ass ***** so one hit and almost knocked him out and we just rushed him
that was the stupidest thing Ive ever read^^^^ Ill fucking jump you for typing like an illegal immigrant.
since I keep almost getting jumped and fucked with constantly, I'm getting brass knuckles this week...I'm fucking tired of degenerates fucking with me for no reason....


text:
Dealing with Discrimination When You Have HIV
We've come a long way in our understanding of HIV and AIDS, but discrimination against people with HIV/AIDS is still rampant. Advances in research have made it possible to live with the disease, as people do with other chronic illnesses. But the greatest challenge for many people is still the stigma that accompanies the illness.
You may worry about what others will think about your diagnosis. Or you may fear coming out as gay or bisexual, or as an intravenous (IV) drug user. These worries and fears can encourage behaviors that put you and others at risk. These behaviors include:
Avoiding getting tested for HIV
Not using condoms
Hiding an HIV-positive status from sex partners
Avoiding medical care that can save or prolong your life
Not taking medication as directed
Hiding health problems from your family
The burden of AIDS is much higher among African-Americans. Homophobia and fear of people with HIV/AIDS are particularly strong in the African-American community. These fears mean that many people are afraid to acknowledge their sexual orientation or HIV-positive status. For these reasons, many prefer to risk infection rather than face the stigma of HIV/AIDS.
The reality of discrimination
Experts warn that "addictphobia" has contributed to discrimination against those who were infected with HIV through IV drug use. "Addictphobia" refers to negative beliefs and misconceptions about people who use illegal drugs. Among these false notions are the ideas that addiction is a moral failing and that addicts are unable or unwilling to change. These prejudices have slowed the availability of treatment centers for people who abuse drugs. As a result, people who are HIV-positive, African-American, and use IV drugs often face three stigmas. This heavy burden can increase isolation, anxiety, distress, and depression among those who are HIV-positive.
Taking action to overcome discrimination
You have many ways to take action to reduce the stigma and discrimination you may be facing:
Educate yourself and others. Discrimination against people with HIV is often rooted in a lack of understanding about the virus and how it spreads. Contact your local public health department to find community-based organizations that provide HIV/AIDS information, counseling, and testing.
Know your rights. Federal law protects people with disabilities, including those with HIV infection, from discrimination. Laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Fair Housing Act protect your rights in the workplace, in housing, and in other settings. For example, the ADA requires employers to accommodate the needs of workers with disabilities such as HIV/AIDS as long as they can still do the required tasks of their job.
Become an advocate. One of the best ways to counter discrimination is to advocate for change in policies that prevent people with HIV from getting the care, housing, and respect they need.
Consider being open with those you can trust. You can choose whom to tell about your HIV status. Not all of your friends and loved ones have to know. You need to think about who can give you the support and comfort you deserve. Although it may be stressful to talk about, being able to confide in people you trust and getting the support you deserve will be an enormous relief. It's also good to remember that you can't control other people's prejudices; prepare for possible negative reactions, at least at first.
Seek support. Studies show that people with strong social support are less likely to feel stigmatized than those who are isolated. If you're uncomfortable seeking comfort from friends and family, contact your local public health department to find HIV support groups in your community. If you already have a close network, consider volunteering to give support to others with HIV.


text:
Bibliography Management
Bibliography management tools (also known as citation or reference management tools) help you organize your research sources and generate bibliographies in muliple citation formats.
Stanford University Libraries support the following bibliography management tools:
Choosing a citation style
For most papers, you will need to format your bibliography according to the citation style specified by your instructor or publisher. Some of the citation styles used at Stanford include:
- MLA (Modern Language Association)
- APA (American Psychological Association)
- Chicago (The Chicago Manual of Style)
For more information about citation styles see: Working with Citations, Purdue Online Writing Lab and the Plagiarism section of the Stanford University Honor Code.
Choosing a citation management tool
All of the tools will help you organize your research references and all include a plug-in for word processing programs to format citations and create bibliographies. But some of the tools offer other features, such as support for collaboration, a web-based interface, and mobile applications.
The Stanford University Libraries provide campus-wide subscriptions to RefWorks and Mendeley. EndNote Web is part of the Stanford University Libraries' subscription to Web of Knowledge. Zotero is an open source tool with basic features at no charge.
The following comparison charts may help you choose a tool that is best for you:
- Terman Engineering Library's citation tools comparison document
- University of Pennsylvania Libraries' scenario based comparison chart
- Wikipedia's comprehensive comparison of reference management software
Bibliography management workshops
Several libraries on campus provide workshops and drop-in help sessions on citation management tools.
Science and Engineering Libraries workshops
Lane Medical Library workshops
Need more help?
For more help on citation management tools, join the Reference Manager Users list at Stanford. You'll have access to the daily digest of questions and answers to problems with various tools and can post your own questions for help from the campus community.


text:
This is the 3rd year running that we've stayed at the Conrad. One of the delights in staying at one of the executive rooms is that you can get access to the Executive Lounge. If you're on business or on holiday, you probably won't stay long at the lounge. However, if you're living in Singapore, it makes perfect sense. The whole day, starting from breakfast time all the way till 11pm, you can get drinks and nibbles. Breakfast, afternoon tea and evening cocktails are also provided. If you ask me, it's the perfect getaway in Singapore. Take a book with you and just while away the time at the lounge. Every 15 minutes or so, order a new drink!
1st start off with a cold drink. For me, I chose the coke, but the Partner wasted no time in jumping straight for the alcohol.
Next, go for a hot drink like hot chocolate or hot latte. Why not have a biscuit or 2 as well. I kinda like this picture because the cups look like they are floating in the clouds…
Don't just stop at 2 drinks. While you are on a roll, order a 3rd one. Yes I really like the chocolate drinks at Conrad, hot or cold!
Heck, why not just swipe the entire bottle. Within easy reach too!
If you still have space, you can head for the afternoon tea spread….
Diced lobsters in some Asian tasting marinade. Delicious! I think I had about 5 of those…
Mini Tuna Finger Sandwiches
No I don't always go for the expensive stuff. I love these chips! I ate a whole bowl of chips plus a generous serving of the cheese sauce!
Nicely displayed chocolates, they always make me smile.
Overhead the staff gushing at how pretty this shortcake was, which I have to agree with.
Smoked Salmon, popiah, fried fish fingers…
The lounge, just before it filled up for afternoon tea.


text:
processing of mobile payments
About IronSocket
Our staff has been involved with computers since the early days of dial up modems. We have combined experiences spanning decades working on a multitude of internet based projects. One of our goals is to make a conscience effort to inform others about staying safe on the internet. If you ever need to reach us, leave a comment, put in a ticket, or contact us using our website's contact us form.


text:
Two experiments recently completed at the Department of Energy's (DOE) Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility (Jefferson Lab) will put scientists one step closer toward understanding the world we live in. The experiments used Jefferson Lab's high energy accelerator and experimental equipment to produce kaons [pronounced Ka- onz], subatomic particles made of quarks, that have puzzled scientists since their discovery almost 50 years ago.
"I am thrilled to have been a part of this historic measurement - the first time that it will have been done with this precision," said Keith Baker, a Hampton University (HU) professor and physicist who is the spokesman for the team of around 90 experimenters from 24 research institutions on one of the experiments. Ben Zeidman, an HU adjunct professor, is the spokesman for the accompanying experiment.
The kaon experiments were the first major experiments, of at least four by HU, to be conducted by faculty from a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) at a national lab concentrating in nuclear physics.
"It was a great accomplishment," said Gabriel Niculescu, the HU doctoral candidate on the experiment. "We were able to prove to ourselves that this experiment could be done. The accomplishment also confirms what we can achieve as human beings."
Many theories and models exist for the kaon, however, none have been proven. The completion of the kaon experiments has caused many to celebrate. Now nuclear physicists await the results.
The experiments, which began October 3 and concluded November 6, 1996, were some of the first of 80 approved for precious beam time at Jefferson Lab - a lab which began its experimental program a year ago after 10 years of construction. Each proposed experiment undergoes a strict review process by a committee made up of top physicists in the country.
Graduate students Niculescu, Jinseok Cha, Wendy Hinton and Ioana Niculescu; and post doctoral fellows, Ketevi Assamagan and Paul Gueye, all from HU, performed critical roles in the success of the experiments. Baker sings high praise for the effort put forth by the group, saying "they all worked very long hours and were under a lot of stress to pull this off."
The complex experimental process for measuring kaons is based on a few scientific principles and the use of Jefferson Lab's unique continuous electron beam accelerator and house-sized experimental equipment.
"Kaons are produced as a result of scattering high energy electrons [electrons traveling at the speed of light] off of protons contained in a certain target," explains Baker. "From this scattering process, both kaons and particles known as hyperons, are detected."
Jefferson Lab's beam of highly accelerated electrons were used to interact with protons from a liquid hydrogen target, adds Assamagan. "Liquid hydrogen is a good target for this experiment because it only has one proton in its nucleus," he explains. "The less protons there are, the easier it is to measure the motion of the particles."
Two detectors, located downstream of the target, detect the particles as they scatter from the target. One detector measures the momentum and direction of the scattered electrons, while the other detects the momentum and direction of the kaons. These two particles must be detected simultaneously in order to ensure that they are produced in the same interaction process.
The probability of creating kaons is very low. In fact, one out of every 1,000 or so detected events will actually be a kaon. "Jefferson Lab's continuous beam of electrons on a target allows the chances of creating kaons to increase," explains Niculescu. "Others were unable to perform a kaon electroproduction experiment as precise as the one we've completed because the equipment and the continuous beam were not available."
The resulting data, currently being analyzed, will provide a better understanding of the kaon, as well as, form a basis for future experiments at Jefferson Lab and elsewhere.
The immediate impact of the experiment will be felt by the four HU graduate students, and Rick Mohring of the University of Maryland. For them, the data taken during the allotted beam-time provides a basis for their theses required to earn doctoral degrees in Physics.
As for the immediate impact or benefit to the rest of the world, "We never know ... perhaps our children and grandchildren may find some practical use for our understanding of the electromagnetic properties of kaons," says Baker. "Meanwhile, we'll continue doing what we do best - pursuing knowledge."
Jefferson Lab is managed and operated for the U.S. Department of Energy by the Southeastern Universities Research Association, Inc., a consortium of 41 universities in the southeast.
Color photos are available. For more information contact Deborah Hyman at (757) 269-5102 or Linda Ware at (757) 269-7689.


text:
Gold Eagle Fuels Excitement At The Classic At Pismo Beach Car Show
Meet Lawnmower Racing Sensation Bobby Cleveland and See the World's Fastest Lawnmower
CHICAGO, June 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The 27th annual Classic at Pismo Beach Car Show takes place mid-month, and Gold Eagle® Co. ("Gold Eagle"), an industry pioneer of engine maintenance fluids and fuel additives and maker of STA-BIL®, HEET® and START YOUR ENGINES!®, will be fueling excitement with the crowds from June 15-17. The Gold Eagle booth will feature Gold Eagle's Engine Answerman and Lawnmower Racing Sensation, Bobby Cleveland, who is an expert on all things engine-related and currently holds the record for the world's fastest lawnmower at 96.529 MPH. In addition, attendees will have the opportunity to get hands-on at the booth where they will be able to touch, feel and learn all about how to "protect the things they love," like their cars, boats, lawnmowers and other small engine equipment.
The interactive Gold Eagle booth will also feature many of its brands, including STA-BIL®, HEET® and START YOUR ENGINES!® as well as information about its fun online community, Cool Rides Online. Bobby Cleveland will also be hosting Engine Answerman mini seminars where he will discuss Ethanol, Small Engines, Marine and Automotive related topics.
Cleveland shares his engine knowledge as Gold Eagle's Engine Answerman. As a former technician and riding lawn-mower designer, he shares his experience and advice with consumers on how they can obtain greater performance out of all things motor—from power sport vehicles and classic cars to household power equipment such as weedwackers and lawnmowers.
In addition to fueling his passion for engines, Cleveland also has a drive for tricking out traditional yard equipment. Cleveland rode his first lawnmower at the age of nine and to date, has won eight national championships. Cleveland earned the "world's fastest" title in 2010 when he achieved the noted top speed at the Bonneville Salt Flats, UT on a riding lawnmower that he built. Cleveland will showcase the world's fastest lawnmower at the Gold Eagle booth during The Classic at Pismo Beach Car Show.
For more information on Gold Eagle and its products, please visit goldeagle.com, and for more information on Bobby Cleveland, please visit Engine Answerman Bobby Cleveland.
About Gold Eagle Co.
For 80 years, Gold Eagle® Co. has been an industry pioneer in the production and distribution of aftermarket fluids and additives. We create products that help preserve, protect and enhance the performance of engines everywhere. We are a leader in the product development, manufacturing, marketing, and distribution of branded engine performance and maintenance chemicals. Privately held and headquartered in Chicago, Gold Eagle Co. is the manufacturer of leading brands, including STA-BIL® Fuel Stabilizer, HEET® Gas-Line Antifreeze, NO-LEAK® Treatments, 104+® Octane Boost, Start Your Engines® and DieselPower!® Diesel Additives. To view our complete line of Gold Eagle products or learn more about the Company, please visit www.goldeagle.com or "like" our Gold Eagle Co., STA-BIL, START YOUR ENGINES! or Engine Answerman pages on Facebook. For product questions, please call us at 800-621-1251 or follow us on Twitter at GoldEagleHelp.
All trademarks, service marks and trade names, including STA-BIL®, HEET®, START YOUR ENGINES! ®, NO LEAK®, ALUMASEAL®, GOLD EAGLE®, DIESEL POWER! ®, GOLDEN TOUCH®, 104® and CoolRidesOnline® used herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of Gold Eagle Co. The aforesaid families of related marks, images and symbols are the exclusive properties and trademarks of Gold Eagle Co. Any other product or company names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.
Media Contact:
Jennifer Rook
Gold Eagle Co.
[email protected]
SOURCE Gold Eagle Co.


text:
A relative asked me this because access to Yahoo! Mail is disabled at work. I suggested that signing up Yahoo! Plus for $20/year to have POP3/SMTP access, then use Gmail or Outlook to access Yahoo!. However Gmail is also disabled. I was wondering if there is any workaround.
The last option would be to purchase an iPhone or Android smart phone and access his Yahoo! Mail via the wireless network.
I'm testing Threadsy and it looks really promising, even as a general purpose web email aggregator.


text:
This article is more than 1 year old
Linux coders do it for money
No such thing as a free (software) launch
Around 75 per cent of Linux developers raked in cash from their code crunching in the past year.
It's a figure that in many ways comes as little surprise, given that Linux usage has become so widespread across industries, government and the public sector in recent years.
Linux kernel contributor Jonathan Corbet told an audience at the Linux.conf.au 2010 conference in Wellington, New Zealand, earlier this week that code monkeys had a very busy 2009, working on projects for distributions such as Red Hat, Ubuntu, Debian and co.
The end result was something of a boon for Linux developers.
"75 per cent of the code comes from people paid to do it," said Corbet, according to APCmag.com.
He pointed out that between 24 December 2008 and 10 January 2010, developers wrote 2.8 million lines of code, with 55,000 tweaks being contributed to the Linux kernel.
According to Corbet's figures, 18 per cent of Linux kernel contributions came via a community effort not derived from a corporate source. A further seven per cent of code donations were unclassified, and the remaining 75 per cent came from people working on behalf of companies to develop code.
Red Hat, which had an extremely busy 2009, came out on top with 12 per cent of contributions. Intel coughed up eight per cent of code, IBM and Novell offered six per cent each, and Oracle trailed with three per cent.
The likes of Google and Apple were notably absent from Corbet's list as, while both companies use Linux-based systems to build their tech, neither have a tendency to contribute code back to the kernel.
"Hardware support is nearly universal - we support more hardware than just about any other system Graphics by the end of this year is really not going to be a big problem," he added.
The next version (2.6.33) of the Linux kernel is expected to be pumped out in early March. ®


text:
Memento mussel soup
The joys of spring, as seen last week:
Buying asparagus from a farmstand covered in blue tarpaulin, by the side of a field. Is there anything a city slicker loves more than some residue of mud on their vegetables?
Podding peas and eating the tiny ones straight away. Sweet.
Marinading strawberries in balsamic vinegar and brown sugar, a la Nigella. The only way to make silly huge fresones edible, really.
Splashing home under an umbrella, and stepping in puddles.Lovely lovely.
If you live in a desert and there´s a drought, you won´t complain about rain, but it might pose a bit of a catering problem. You can´t give dinner guests a trim dinner of steamed asparagus with poached eggs and strawberry cake; they´ll freeze. But you can´t really trot out lentils and apple pie.
The answer? Memento mussel soup. Memento being a restaurant where they serve a beautiful starter of mussels with chistorra (a light cooking chorizo from Navarra). It always has us clamouring for more bread to dip in the rust-red strong sauce, and seemed like a perfect springboard for a good soup.
My version is soupier (duh) and lighter, and has gone straight away into the folder of "things I´ll be making again and again".
It´s good, and it´s easy, and it´s quick, provided you buy cleaned mussels or enlist help.
I served it with a home made focaccia, which was pretty amazing, but any crusty bread for making boats will be great. Provide plenty of napkins and maybe finger bowls.
Memento mussel soup
2kgs mussels, cleaned and debearded
100 gr. or so of chistorra, or any other cooking chorizo
a bunch of spring onions, or three shallots
2 cloves of garlic, minced
4 smallish tomatoes, grated (or a 1/2 kg. tin, which will give you more liquid, and lucky you)
salt, pepper, dried oregano to taste
1 tablespoonful flour
300 ml or so of liquid (white wine, beer or both)
olive oil
Creme fraiche, or any thick cream
Begin by sauteeing the chistorra in olive oil in a big pan that will hold all the mussels later, until it´s released its fat and it´s beginning to crisp up. Add the spring onions. After a couple of minutes, add the tomatoes and garlic. None of this has to cook down a lot, but give it a couple of minutes, too. Now add the flour and stir til it dissappears, and stir it around for a bit more so it won´t taste raw.
Pour in the liquid and stir until it´s thickened and the alcohol has evaporated. Throw in the mussels, cover, and, taking the pan in your mittened hands that are also clamping down the lid, give it a good shake.
Do this again a couple of times (males of the species are good for this job. recruit one). Check after three minutes. If there are a lot of unopened shells, leave it another minute.
Now serve in big deep bowls, as many mussels as you can, plenty of the soup and a blob of sour cream (with chopped parsley or chives if you have them, for prettiness). Put a big salad bowl for the shells on the table, alongside some hot sauce. As people eat, their bowls will be ready for more, so top them up.
Serves 4 as dinner, with fresh bread, or 8 more timid souls as a starter.
11 comentarios:
That sounds wonderful and different from the usual mussel recipe. I think mussels are a great choice for a dinner with guests. There's something very convivial about eating mussels and tossing the shells in a communal shell bowl.
- 7:10 p. m.
I adore mussels, thanks for the recipe. Your drawings are delightful, are they all your own? What is your medium? Enjoyed!
- 7:26 p. m.
- xps dijo...
Que bueno. mándale el link de hoy a edu. lo merece.
- 8:20 a. m.
- Pille dijo...
Ximena - you are an angel!!! K. loved the soup/stew at Memento! Although I skipped all those mussels in this particular soup, the chistorra-tomato-rosemary-cream sauce was amazing :)
(PS write-up on eb will come, still digesting the information, you see:) - 9:05 a. m.
- Lydia (The Perfect Pantry) dijo...
Lovely recipe. The Portuguese restaurants in our area do wonderful things by combining chorizo and shellfish, too.
- 1:43 p. m.
- neil dijo...
There's chorizo and cooking chorizo? I thought they were all pretty much the same, what's the difference?
- 1:33 a. m.
i don't like to eat the actual mussels, but i *love* dipping bread into the mussel sauce. this sounds like an excellent candidate for tasty bread-dipping.
- 4:12 a. m.
- lobstersquad dijo...
Julie: anything you eat with your hands is so friendly, I agree.
Kim: yes, the drawings are my own. This one I´ve done straight away on Photoshop, but others have ink lines, or watercolour. Depends.
Xps: sí que sí. a ver cuando lo probamos.
Pille: I did without the dried rosemary in this one. too strong for me. but htanks for the reminder
Lydia: surf n turf seems to be all Catalan or Portuguese over here. but we´re learning!
Neil: o yes. I don´t know the technical difference, but cooking chorizo isn´t so cured, I think. And it tastes gross if you eat it raw. You HAVE to cook it. The other kind is firmer, and slices into perfect round slices, rather than raggedy bits.
Michelle: that´s the good thing about this dish, even mussel haters dip into it, and there´s plenty for everyone. - 9:18 a. m.
This sounds wonderful. I love mussels, and now that it is spring, i am going to take a lunchtime walk to Wholey's- our great fish market in the Strip district, and get me some mussels to bring home from work. I can leave them in the fridge at work until it's time to go home.
- 2:00 a. m.
- ChichaJo dijo...
I am a big fan of mixing seafood with meat...especially the shellfish/sausage combination! This is going stright to my to-make folder!
- 4:47 p. m.
This looks fantastic. I can't wait to try it. I like the option of using beer - my husband thought I'd gone insane the first time I used beer in a soup.
- 4:52 p. m.


text:
A Common Condom Misunderstanding
I get the impression that some, if not many of of our users think that condom failure rates are the same as condom breakage/slippage rates. In other words, think that when we explain that in typical use, condoms are 85% effective, that means that 15% of condoms break.
It doesn't: that is NOT what those rates mean. I hate for anyone to be presuming it is and to panic about a potential pregnancy via condom use because of that misunderstanding.
When we say condoms are effective 98% of the time in perfect use, that means that 2% of people with uteruses using condoms (or, 2 out of every 100) as a sole method perfectly -- as in, following all the directions, including proper storage of condoms -- each year become pregnant. When we say they are 85% effective in typical use -- the way most people use them, which includes storing them incorrectly, putting them on wrong or too late or not using them at all -- that means 15% of people with uteruses using them that way become pregnant in one year. People often forget that typical use rates for any method include people who really just aren't using that method: that some people who, when asked, say condoms are what they use as a method, have times when they simply aren't used, period. Same with typical use rates for the pill and other methods.
But condoms actually don't break very often, particularly when used perfectly. Here are a few quotes on that for you (bolding mine):
"Condoms hardly ever break if they are stored and used correctly. Studies show that latex condoms break only about 0.4% (4 out of 1000) of the time during the first five uses, and polyurethane condoms break 4% (4 out of 100) of the time during the first five uses." - http://www.youngwomenshealth.org/malecontraceptives1.html
"Men attending 3 sexually transmissible disease clinics and a university health service in Sydney were given a questionnaire asking how many condoms they had used in the past year and how many broke during application or use or slipped off. Respondents were 544 men aged 18 to 54 years. Of these, 402 men reported using 13,691 condoms for vaginal or anal intercourse; 7.3% reportedly broke during application or use and 4.4% slipped off. Men having sex with men reported slightly higher slippage rates than those having sex with women. Breakage and slippage were unevenly distributed among the sample: a few men experienced very high failure rates. A volunteer subsample reported 3 months later on condoms supplied to them: 36 men used 529 condoms, of which 2.8% broke during application or use and 3.4% slipped off. Many of these failures pose no risk to the user, especially those occurring during application, as long as they are noticed at the time, but failure may discourage future use." - from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8476971
"In an effort to define condom performance in a group of monogamous couples typical of those using condoms for contraception, we conducted a clinical trial of a single brand of lubricated condoms (Durex Ramses). A total of 4637 attempts to use the condom were evaluated. Six breaks occurred before intercourse (nonclinical breaks), and 10 condoms broke during intercourse or were only noted to have broken upon withdrawal (clinical breaks), resulting in a nonclinical breakage rate of 0.13% (95% confidence interval, 0.05-0.28%), clinical breakage rate of 0.28% (0.15-0.48%), and a total breakage rate of 0.41% (0.25-0.64%). The rate of complete slippage was 0.63% (0.42-0.90%), and total failure (clinical breaks plus complete slips) was 1.04% (0.76-1.37%)." - from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9306027
In other words, the rate of breakage/slippage is far, FAR lower than many think or assume, and is a much different figure than rates of effectiveness in typical or perfect use. A condom can break or slip off in EITHER kind of use, and is much more likely to with imperfect use, yet still, breaks and total slip-offs are actually pretty rare.
Want to be sure you're using condoms properly? Check it out: Condom Basics: A User's Manual. Remember that when it comes to preventing pregnancy from a condom failure, the key is using them correctly AND consistently: from start to finish, every time you have intercourse.
Thank you
I was trying so hard to confirm if the 2% failure rate included breakage or slips that did NOT involve human error. I checked the condom (w water) after usage and there were no holes. I was just concerned that 2% of the time there were no holes/no slippage and yet failure still occurred.
As usual, this site always has the answers. It's outstanding. Your knowledge and the way you write make scary things a lot less scary. Kudos to you Heather!!


text:
Kahurangi Maori Dance Theatre to perform at Down Under Fest
A celebration of Australian and New Zealand culture will be held this weekend at the Polo Fields, Cumming, Georgia (north of Atlanta). Down Under Fest will feature a variety of performers, events, exhibits, animals and unique cuisine, as well as showcase New Zealand traditional dance company Kahurangi Maori Dance Theatre.
Performing throughout the weekend, Kahurangi is a New Zealand treasure with extraordinary vitality, passion, strength and athleticism. They have thrilled audiences across the world with their unique blend of Maori song, dance and heritage.
For information on Down Under Fest and to get your tickets visit www.DownUnderFest.com