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As it turns out, the political halls of New Hampshire have been painted pink for decades. According to the New York Times, every year since 1975, more than 100 women have served in the state legislature. When women hold only 16.8% of positions in Congress and 23.7% of state legislative jobs nation-wide, why is the pipeline so full in this small New England state? One reason cited is the relatively large size of its State House; with 400 members, women have better odds of getting elected. But perhaps even more telling is this nugget highlighted by Buzzfeed's Hillary Reinsberg:
Members of New Hampshire's state senate and state legislators are virtually unpaid. It's a part-time position, which isn't uncommon--but in every other state, representatives get either an annual salary of a few thousand dollars or a per diem payment of a few hundred. In California, legislators made $95,291 a year in 2012. In New Hampshire, they make $100 a year. This, local leaders agree, has been an essential factor in getting women into office.
"What happens when you don't pay politicians?" Reinsberg asks. "Women get elected."
Historian Stephanie Coontz, a professor at Evergreen State College in Olympia, Wash., and author of A Strange Stirring: The Feminine Mystique and American Women at the Dawn of the 1960s, believes framing these jobs as volunteer work likely makes them friendlier to women, who historically have not pursued the political sphere like men have. For one, the low pay may deter men, opening up more slots for women. Additionally, women tend to prioritize work that they feel is meaningful and do more volunteering.
"Women have been socialized to see themselves as nurturers and to take care of families and communities," says Coontz. "They may be more willing when they're moved by something to not take as much money."
The paycheck (or lack thereof) may also boost women's confidence levels. Coontz says women tend to feel less qualified for positions than they actually are, while men are often over-confident. One survey found that men are 60% more likely than women to think they are qualified to run for office. Women in New Hampshire, she says, may feel they don't need to be "super qualified" to run for legislative office.
While it's certainly a victory to see more women attaining political power positions, does a volunteer pipeline devalue their hard work? "I don't think the way to do this is to see if we can get women to be the good gals, who are willing to do it for free," says Coontz.
Fifty years after the Equal Pay Act was passed and Betty Friedan's The Feminine Mystique was published, women in the U.S. are now more qualified for professional jobs than ever before. They receive the majority of bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees. However, women continue to earn significantly less than their male peers in every educational cohort and stage of life, making approximately 80 cents for every dollar earned by men.
In fact, the relationship between occupational wages and female workers has been historically negative. Studies show that as more women enter traditionally male-dominated fields, wages drop. "As a field becomes feminized, the wages and prestige goes down," says Coontz. "It's been happening since women took over secretary jobs in the 19th century." What's unclear to researchers, she notes, is why it happens or where it starts. It may be that employers offer less money as a recruiting strategy, and women are more willing to accept it. It may also stem from an unconscious belief among hiring managers that women are less skilled and will demand less.
Interestingly, a segment on this morning's Today show spotlights a curious trend: the 40-year-old intern. In a nutshell, adults who've taken time out of the workforce and are looking for a route back in are beginning to take temporary, low-paying or unpaid internships to gain experience and resume fodder. Of course, the only examples cited of "adult interns" were women who'd left careers to raise children.
Is working for free really a viable solution for getting women back to work?
"These free enrichment things assume there's someone there who will subsidize this work," says Coontz. "When women enter these arrangements it assumes they have a husband who can afford it." That may be a dangerous assumption—in the same way the conversation around women's "work vs. family" choices assumes they, as a group, have choices at all.
As a rule, women's work isn't worth less. Considering their increasing educational achievements, it's arguably worth more. So I can't help but wonder: Why do women continue to accept less?
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by Olivia Nathan
Straining to hear the rain
from this cold bed,
beneath an electric blanket that's not plugged in.
Was today about love or leaves?
I couldn't tell.
Unraveling the braids in my hair
brought me closer to the lapping water on the yachts.
And the growing, falling
laughter from his gray suit jacket mouth.
Swear I hear it from this damp bed,
but not the rain.
(Photo courtesy of the writer herself)
Olivia Nathan is a junior at Barnard and an opinion editor for Barnard Bite.

subset: commoncrawl


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Improve your Wi-Fi for the holidays
SAN ANTONIO — Playing host for the holidays? Better have the Wi-Fi ready to handle your houseguests.
Visiting friends and relatives are bound to show up with their tech in tow, eager to stream videos between slices of fruitcake and tweet updates between swigs of eggnog. Factor in all those gadgets under one roof and that's a lot of competition for your humble home Internet connection.
"You could probably just reflect on your own family and imagine what that means if you have a lot of people visiting. So if you've got one or two devices per person (for one) connection network, it can certainly pose challenges," said Kelly Davis-Felner, marketing and program management director for the nonprofit Wi-Fi Alliance.
Here's how to maximize your Wi-Fi for season's greetings and beyond.
Place your router in the best location. Davis-Felner said a router beams out a Wi-Fi signal in a radius, much like a ripple in a pond. That's why, she said, the ideal place for your router is in the center of your home.
This may be tough if your cable company or other ISP — Internet service provider — has already established your router in another part of the house. Then again, fireplaces or other built-in furnishings may force you to set up your router away from your home's center. That's fine — just consider where your guests are most likely to go online and place your router as near to that area as you can.
At the very least, Davis-Felner said, make sure your Wi-Fi router isn't squirreled away in a metal-lined closet, which can compromise signal strength. Avoid or minimize other Wi-Fi obstructions, such as concrete, brick and stone, whenever possible.
Change the router's channel. Jason Owen, CEO of Amped Wireless Wi-Fi products, recommends checking your router so it runs on a clear channel. If your router shares the same channel as your neighbor, find a new one. Channel, that is.
You can do this by simply going into your router's main menu and changing the channel setting, though Amped offers a free Wi-Fi Analytics app for Android and Windows devices to optimize your Wi-Fi network and product installations.
"Nobody thinks about changing the channel on their Wi-Fi router," Owen said. "But if you're on a bad channel, it can mean 50 percent less feed and 50 percent less range."
Update the firmware. Firmware is permanent software that can upgrade your device. Your router should have the latest firmware for optimal performance. Owen called it a small tweak, but every bit helps, so check for updates.
Set up a guest password. Davis-Felner warns never to turn off the security on your Wi-Fi network so family can connect to it. Instead, create a special temporary password, give it to guests who need network access, then change it back to your main password when they leave.
Owen said many routers have a guest network feature, which also lets you manage bandwidth so company won't hog it. Of course, you can just give them your password if you're comfortable with that, or change it when they go.
Increase speed through your provider. You can always call your ISP if you think guests will need the extra Wi-Fi speed, especially if they plan to binge on online gaming and Internet TV services.
"Most cable providers have tiered offerings," Davis-Felner said, "and they can ratchet up the speed a little bit. But you would pay for it."
Buy a new router. You saw this one coming, though it needn't cut too deep into your budget. Davis-Felner recommended getting a new router if your current one is more than 4 or 5 years old, or is a single-band router that just works on a 2.4GHz frequency.
As for price, Davis-Felner said a very capable new router will cost anywhere from $70 to $200.
"It's not going to become obsolete in a year by any stretch of the imagination," she said. "So people can feel like it's an investment they can kind hold onto for a few years."
Go dual-band concurrent. When shopping for a new router, Davis-Felner recommended a dual-band model that operates on both the common 2.4GHz frequency and the less-congested 5GHz frequency. She stressed getting a dual-band concurrent model, which runs both frequencies at the same time. The flexibility should make your wireless-craving visitors happy.
Look for 802.11n and 802.11ac wireless networking standards. These are the latest and best Wi-Fi standards. Davis-Felner said 802.11n has been around since 2007, while the faster 802.11ac just hit this year. Also, 802.11ac is backward compatible to work with 802.11n on 5GHz, while 802.11n is backward compatible to the older/slower b and g standards.
Going 802.11ac can get pricey, but Owen said it's worth the investment. The standard ISP router is a downright pokey single-band 802.11g that tops out at a speed of 54Mbps (megabits per second), he said, whereas 802.11ac can reach 1,300Mbps or 1.3Gbps.
Think of 802.11ac as your better-connected future. It favors the 5GHz frequency, which should mean less congestion. Another plus: 802.11ac lends itself to "beamforming," which focuses the Wi-Fi signal directly at a device instead of across a broad swath for a better connection.
Consider Wi-Fi range extenders. If moving or replacing your router still doesn't cover enough of your domain, you could invest in a Wi-Fi range extender or repeater to stretch that signal in and around your home. Owen says extenders cost from $50 to $200, depending on how much area you want to cover.
"That is the easiest and the best way to get your whole home covered, get rid of a dead spot (and) increase speeds at a distance," Owen said.
Just remember those speeds only go as fast as the Internet service you're paying for.
Look for Wi-Fi Certified. This designation means the Wi-Fi Alliance has tested and validated the device for security requirements and interoperability. That way "you can have the iPad, the Android device, the Lenovo PC and your Samsung TV all connecting without problem," Davis-Felner said.
And if there's one thing the holidays are all about, it's maintaining harmony, if not with your loved ones then at least with their devices.
Twitter: @reneguz


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To view the latest bulletin click here.
VC Bulletin – 3 February 2016
Posted by Internal Comms on February 3, 2016 in Uncategorized, VC Bulletin · 1 Comments
Dr Gina Sherwood
February 12, 2016
It is very positive to read about the steps that the university are taking in order to address the shortfall in the applications from students this year.
I agree that the opportunities to provide work experience are really important for students. This is something that is highlighted in our presentations at Open Days and reinforced during lectures and seminars with students.
I addressed this point with the students this week as we were talking about social work and I reminded them of an interview with social workers on Radio 4 Today programme (14.01.2016) where they were explaining the need for social workers to have had experience of working with children.


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Van der Garde tops first practice
|By Mark Glendenning
|Friday, September 10th 2010, 10:54 GMT
Giedo van der Garde has opened this weekend's GP2 round at Monza by topping this morning's free practice session
You have viewed over 15 free stories this month. Why stop there? Click here to find out how to continue reading.


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If you have ever pondered the question "Gee, how does she draw the same character in so many different poses?"
I have models. I tell them the story line, ask them to imagine what is happening, and then tell them to REACT impulsively to the scene. I like lots of exaggerated facial expressions and over-acted movements so that the camera captures an image I can turn into a "cartoon" figure. For example, on the first page of chapter 2. Scene: Hecock is holding his new baby cousin, who is obviously wet. First here is the photo of Steve, my Hecock model:
I do an ink drawing, changing the clothes, and, of course, drawing a baby in his hands rather than a rolled up sheet! I have to tweak the facial features because Steve has a longer nose, and a square jaw, unlike the slightly upturned nose and angular jaw of Hecock. You may have noticed the drawing is a mirror image. It worked better with the page layout to flip the image.
Next, I will show you Finzel's model.


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NEOCH Award Winners
Each year, NEOCH honors those that have demonstrated exemplary commitment to serving the interests homeless people. We present awards to volunteers, elected officials, city leaders, lawyers, organizers, outreach workers, service providers, and more. NEOCH deeply appreciates the efforts of those who continue to relentlessly advocate for people experiencing homelessness.
In particular, our Ione Biggs Social Justice Award is to remember the impact of Ione Biggs of East Cleveland, one of NEOCH's most loyal and visible members. She had a long history of fighting for civil rights and liberty in our community and raised her voice at the City Club and on Public Square against injustice. Ms. Biggs was one of the first female police officers and spent years working on social justice issues. Ione was a representative of the UN Conference on Women, and she was a champion of civil rights and equality for women in Cleveland. Ione had a unique talent for cornering elected officials to get them to do the right thing. She was able to keep in contact with all the peace and justice organizations in the city. Ione Biggs broke many racial and gender barriers, and she cast a long shadow in Cleveland. We recognize her commitment to women's equality, peace, universal health care, a strong social safety net and an end to homelessness by awarding the lone Biggs Social Justice Award to individuals who have worked to further the struggle against injustice. The award is intended to highlight the life time achievements of social justice advocates in community service, public policy, access to justice, and equality that led to change.
2016 Award Winners
Dr. Marcia Zashin is the Director of Project ACT for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District and their Homeless Children and Youth Program. She has created one of the model programs for homeless kids in the US over her 30 year career. She was instrumental in saving NEOCH 23 years ago by collaborating on the VISTA program. She has worked diligently to assure that young people who become homeless do not fall behind in school and are returned to the classroom as quickly as possible. She works to have all her tutors and staff up to date on current information and collaborates with the State Department of Education and other homeless children and youth programs in Ohio. Zashin has worked to provide the best services possible to the large increase in homeless children in the school district over the last 15 years.Dr. Zashin accepts the award surrounded by both of Ione Biggs adult children
Champion of Ending Homelessness: Paul Sherlock
Paul Sherlock began working with homeless people about 11 years ago at the Homeless Stand Down. He is known for riding around the West Side on his bike and regularly goes out to the streets with Jim Schlecht. Paul worked in the clothing ministry at Malachi to get experience, and eventually began doing outreach with him and has been doing the outreach for 10 years now. Along the way, he joined The Metanoia Project board, and is interested in helping homeless people set up their own empowerment projects. He is the president of the Metanoia board, and works to help people experiencing homelessness solve their own housing issues with a hand up.
Champion of Civil Rights: Sandhya Gupta
Sandhya Gupta is an attorney at The Chandra Law Firm LLC, where she has been involved in all aspects of the firm's civil-rights practice, including matters touching on the First Amendment, voting rights, attorneys' fees, and open-government law. She is a native Clevelander, and practiced at a large law firm in New York City after graduating from Columbia School of Law. She also served as law clerk to U.S. District Judge James S. Gwin of the Northern District of Ohio. Sandhya has worked extensively on get-out-the-vote efforts for presidential campaigns. Among her community activities, she also launched the Cleveland Committee of the Princeton Prize in Race Relations, which recognizes high school students for their positive impact on race relations. She was also a Fulbright Scholar to India and worked in the international human-rights field before law school.
2015 Award Winners
2015 Most Valuable Partner: Peter Schindler of the Community West Foundation
Peter Schindler assisted the Coalition with the development of the Socks Plus campaign. He regularly provides advice to the collaborative members and is always willing to deliver donated items to NEOCH. He attends events and public policy discussions and supports the Homeless Stand Down, as well as Homeless Memorial Day. He helps to dispel myths and educate the public about homelessness in Cleveland.
2015 Advocate of the Year: Michelle Russell
Michelle Russell has previously won the volunteer of the year award for her work assisting to organize the women at the shelter and has served on the NEOCH Board since 2010. After her brother was killed by the Cleveland Police in 2012, Russell was the spokesperson for the family in pushing for reform. Timothy was staying at a local shelter and had befriended a women sleeping at the Women's Shelter. Michelle regularly spoke to the media and the United States Justice Department about the out of control nature of the police that was exposed on that horrible evening of Thanksgiving weekend in East Cleveland. In 2015, a consent decree was announced with the Justice Department that is slated to make sweeping changes in the interactions between police and the mentally ill, disabled, and homeless people. There will be more oversight, independent citizen review and a fair process for investigating future police involved shootings. We recognize Michelle Russell as the 2015 Advocate of the Year for her work on police reform in the City of Cleveland.
2015 Volunteer of the Year: Abby Bova
Abby Bova is a senior at Beaumont High School in Cleveland Heights, and worked with NEOCH in 2015 to assist the vendors to tell their stories. She is an honors English student and helped with the publication of the Street Newspaper. She wrote her own stories and took the time to help the Chronicle vendors to document their own lives. Abby spent the summer working on improving the public information about the Coalition including the NEOCH website. She helped the Coalition document many of the success stories of people moving from homeless to housed. NEOCH recognizes Abby Bova as the David Westcott volunteer of 2015.
2014 Award Winners
Advocate of the Year: Norman Wolfe
Norman Wolfe is a former member of the NEOCH Board and current member of the Homeless Congress. He volunteers with NOBLE, working on the Ohio state budget issues and their impact of those decisions on homelessness and those living in poverty. Wolfe is a veteran of the U.S. Navy and has had previous experience with homelessness. One of the most important programs of the Coalition that Wolfe worked to restart was the Resident Council at 2100 Lakeside. He felt that this empowered the men at the shelter to confront senior staff about problems and work on resolutions for those issues. Wolfe pushed for the Resident Council, so that residents would have a chance to voice their frustrations and not face the possibility of realiation. The meetings focus on solutions to improve the conditions within the shelter, and staff respond in writing to the concerns. The Resident Council has resulted in improved training, staff changes and better movement throughout the shelter. Wolfe has led a community discussion about the budget earlier this year and led protests, meetings, and visits to the Statehouse with Organize!Ohio in 2014 for the struggle to expand Medicaid in Ohio.
David Westcott Volunteer of the Year: Demetrius Barnes
Demetrius Barnes has volunteered with NEOCH for over 5 years. She regularly comes into the office almost every day and is willing to help with anything. Barnes does clerical duties, phone calls, filing, and sorts donations. If you attend one of the meetings at NEOCH, you have probably received a call from Ms. Barnes. She lives in the MidTown area and wants to give back to her community. Barnes has great hopes to use the skills she has learned at NEOCH to find a permanent job. She has volunteered for her church and for the Bishop Cosgrove Center in the past, and attends the Homeless Congress, and the Hand Up Gala events as well.
2014 Social Service Provider of the Year: Beau Hill
Beau Hill is the Coordinator of the Harbor Light Project and contact for homeless services within the Salvation Army of Greater Cleveland. He is a co-chair of the Public Policy Committee of the Ohffice of Homeless Services and oversees the shelters, detox, community, corrections, and outreach headquartered in the Prospect Avenue facility. Heill leads the effort to reduce human trafficking in Cleveland, and has assisted the county in improving the regulations of the local shelters. The biggest sucess over the last year was the posting of rules that prevent discharge from shelters in the evening unless there is criminal activity. The other victory from 2014 was the the financing of a new family shelter in Cleveland operated by the Salvation Army. This has been a dream of many, including hHill, for years to move the Zelma George shelter into their own brand new facility built to serve the unique needs of homeless families. With funding from the State of Ohio and Cuyahoga County, the project was approved in 2014 to move the Salvation Army family shelter back into its own building near Harbor Light. For these reasons, NEOCH recognizes Beau Hill as the Homeless Social Service Provider of the Year.
2013 Award Winners
Jay Westbrook is a retired City Councilman from the Detroit Shoreway neighborhood of Cleveland. He worked to create the City's first strategic plan to address the rise in family homelessness in the 1980's Westbrook helped create the first joint City and County office to meet the needs of homeless people. He has assisted in maintaining a City commitment to not turn anyone away who requests shelter in the City of Cleveland saving thousands of lives. He has been a strong and consistent voice to preserve and expand affordable housing and resisting community opposition to shelters and social services in the neighborhoods.
Advocate of the Year: Eileen Kelly
Eileen Kelly is staff of St. Colman's Church and has assisted with the creation of the identification Collaborative with NEOCH and West Side Catholic nearly 10 years ago. This unique partnerships allow thousands of dollars to be distributed to homeless and extremely low income individuals. This helps individuals. This helps individuals and families to be able to order their own birth certificate and obtain a state identification. They also have the expertise to know the rules for obtaining birth certificates across the United States, and the program has built in advocacy as a vital component of the project. Eileen Kelly has worked over the last years to continue the funding for the project, and ease the ability for homeless people to receive their identification. She has pushed the Social Security Administration and the Bureau of Motor Vehicles to reduce barriers to people obtaining identification it is impossible it is impossible to get a job, vote or find stability.
David Westcott Volunteer of the Year: Kimberly Fisher
Kimberly Fisher is a student at Kent State University on a break with a chronic health condition and the loss of a family member. She came to NEOCH to learn about homelessness and help the agency while she was recovering. She has a goal of becoming a social worker and displayed a great deal of compassion for the people she worked with at NEOCH. Fischer set up two Facebook pages for the Coalition and helped with our advocacy agenda. She wrote a series of articles for the Cleveland Street Chronicle and helped to update our website. Fischer really bonded with the Mature Services staff and was always willing to help. Fischer really bonded with the Mature Services staff and was always willing to help. Fischer said that she was inspired by NEOCH and she certainly inspired many of our vendors and volunteers.
2012 Award Winners
Maria Smith is an attorney with the Legal Aid Society, and has a long history of working to open access to subsidized housing locally and is one of the main architects of the re-entry housing programs. Maria Smith is an expert on the landlord tenant law and has assisted hundreds in avoiding eviction. Smith champions civil rights and bringing justice to the judicial system. Smith has assisted many in appealing their denial from subsidized housing, and wants public resources to be used in a just and fair manner. Smith has publicly fought against the funding of wars and defense spending by the US government and is a big proponent of equality and forgiveness.
NEOCH Student Volunteer of the Year: Grace Gamble
Grace is a high school student at Beaumont School who worked part time over the summer and on Saturdays in the fall to help organize the Hand Up Gala. She has a strong background participating in the National Honor Society and the drama program. She also has strong ties to her Cleveland Heights church. Grace assisted with the NEOCH public education programs and did the bulk of the work on the Hand Up Gala. It provided a wonderful meal to 200 individuals and raised $3,000 for the two organizations. NEOCH celebrates Grace Gamble as the first Student Volunteer of the Year for 2012.
David Westcott NEOCH Volunteer of the Year: Jennifer Kocan
Jennifer has served on the NEOCH Board for six years. In 2011, she took a leave from the NEOCH Board to take on the role of Interim Executive Director. She worked on fund development activities as well as repairing relationships. Jennifer worked to preserve the organization and manage NEOCH through difficult times. Jennifer was busy with family, career, and her church along with her work with the Coalition. The Coalition thanks Jennifer for her volunteer service to the organization in 2011 to 2012.
Homeless Voting Champions: North Point Transitional Shelter and The Salvation Army Railton House Shelter
Every publicly funded shelter is required to submit a plan to register and then encourage their residents to vote. Cuyahoga County shelters together registered over 1,000 people in 2012. Two facilities went out of their way to encourage voting among their residents. We recognize The North Point Transitional Shelter and The Salvation Army Railton House Shelter as Homeless Voting Champions for 2012. We recognize Jeff Bricker at North Point and his staff for leading the effort to register every resident and help get them to the polling place. We also recognize Shindana Frazier and her staff for her efforts at Railton House for working every week to encourage voting activities.
Advocate of the Year: Nina Turner
State Senator Nina Turner has championed the rights of voters in Ohio for the past two years. She attended many of the rallies in 2012 to protect the rights of voters. Senator Turner advanced legislation to expand access to the ballot box. She worked to expand weekend voting in Ohio, which 76% of the individuals we registered took advantage of in the November election. For all of her work to expand the rights of low income individuals, we recognize Senator Turner as the Advocate of the year for 2012 election.
2011 Award Winners
Advocate of the Year: Subodh Chandra
Subodh Chandra has represented the Coalition in a lawsuit against the State of Ohio regarding the requirement that voters present some form of identification in order to cast a ballot when voting. We settled this suit in 2010, and Chandra helped to challenge a violation of our settlement in Hamilton County. This settlement will govern the 2012 Presidential election and has forced the state to count provisional ballots in a consistent manner in every county. Chandra operates the Chandra Law Firm and was the previous law director for the city of Cleveland. He is a former federal prosecutor and graduate of Yale Law School. He is married to a civil rights attorney and father to triplet sons.
David Westcott NEOCH Volunteer of the Year: Brent Stowe
When the Cleveland Street Chronicle restarted in late 2010, Brent Stowe stepped up and offered his design and production skills to the Coalition to assist with the publication of the paper. Stowe works at American Greetings and has a background in digital graphics and preparing artwork for printing. He is a graduate of Kent State University and resident of Lakewood. Brent may be joining the NEOCH Board in the near future. We could not print the paper without his help.
2010 Award Winners:
Advocate of the Year: Tim Walters
Retired from the May Dugan Center last year, but has continued working to protect the rights of low income and homeless people. Tim is an authority in Cleveland on public utilities and how low income residents navigate this complicated system. Tim has helped create the state advocacy group, ABLE, in order to help lower income families lobby for justice in the state budget. Walters regularly volunteers with the Metanoia Project and Project Save. He attends the Homeless Congress to listen to the views and opinions of homeless people. Walters has helped improve the outreach safety net in Cleveland and has successfully integrated advocacy with the human service needs of homeless people to support the NEOCH mission.
David Westcott Volunteer of the Year: Larry Davis
Came to NEOCH in 2006 as a volunteer by way of the Cleveland Tenants Organization. He is a veteran of the US military who has taken a leadership role within his church and the apartment buildings that he lives in. Larry previously was an AmeriCorps VISTA for a year and a half, and now is a Mature Services member doing community organizing for CTO. He regularly volunteers 20 hours a week at NEOCH to help with the Street Voices project and assigning volunteers useful work for the organization. Larry is a key member of the Stand Down leadership committee and started a blanket and winter clothing drive at NEOCH in 2009.
Homeless Social Services Person of the Year: Nicole Evans
Is the current program director at the Bishop William Cosgrove Center that provides hundreds of meals to homeless and very low income individuals every day. She has worked for Catholic Charities since 1999, and before that worked for the Cleveland Food bank. Nicole is currently enrolled at Cleveland State University pursuing a degree in urban studies. She has always been willing to go the extra mile to help people in need with programming and a healthy meal at the city's largest day shelter. In 2010, Nicole worked with NEOCH to successfully stage the Hand Up Gala, Which provided a wonderful fine dining meal to 85 low income individuals; Nicole has also worked for years to prepare the food for the Homeless Stand Down.
2009 Award Winners
David Westcott Volunteer of the Year: Michelle Russell
Russell has volunteered every week for the past eight months at the Coalition helping with writing grants, fundraising and coordinating the resident council at the Community Women's Shelter. She has a background in account management, financial analysis and marketing. Russell is involved in the From Darkness to Light non-profit providing direct care to homeless people, and has a strong commitment to her faith. She volunteers as stewardship director and the women's ministry with her church. Russell joined the NEOCH Board in August 2009 and is always willing to lend a hand to those struggling to find stable housing.
NEOCH Advocate of the Year: Michael Piepsny
Piepsny is the Executive Director of the Cleveland Tenants Organization. He has been extremely supportive of the Coalition over the last three years including the taking over of the Bridging the Gap program so that it was not lost to the community. He oversees the eviction diversion program so that people do not fall into the shelters. Piepsny helped with a series of fair housing forums last year for those living in transitional shelters. He has helped with the development of a Housing Trust Fund and the collaboration on finding job for those low income individuals in Cleveland. Finally, he was the co-convener of the homeless prevention collaboration with NEOCH in 2009.
2008 Award Winners
David served on the NEOCH Board for eleven years. He came to the organization in the early 1990s as a true advocate for homeless people. He pushed the agency to rise above every barrier to focus our attention on an end to homelessness. David was always frustrated with the pace of change in this community, and wanted to see religious, government and social service organizations come together to reduce the number of people sleeping in shelters. He was a real asset to NEOCH by improving our systems and operations and guiding us through rough years after September 11 and the beginning of this latest recession in 2007. He was a former Army officer in World War II and Korea. Westcott served as Executive Director of the Lutheran Council of Cleveland and as a social worker at WESM. He volunteered with Brookside Family Neighborhood Center, International Partners in Mission (IPM), and the ACLU. He was proudest of his work as a Board member of IPM building a solid organization that reaches out a hand in peace and in the model of the teachings of Christ to lift up disenfranchised populations in El Salvador, Beruit, and India. He was the 2002 Homeless Advocate of the Year as selected by the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless.
Volunteer of the Year: Traci Ext
Is an attorney currently working for the federal government, and she gives up most every Monday afternoon volunteering for the Homeless Coalition. Ext assists with our advocacy agenda in Cleveland. She has volunteered with the Homeless Stand Down, and has worked on many of NEOCH's research reports. She has previous experience at the Legal Aid Society, and is a law school graduate from Harvard. Ext did her undergraduate work at Rice University, and has a strong interest in social justice. She relaxes by playing basketball and was recently married.
Advocate of the Year: Margaret Wilson
Margaret Wilson is the current Outreach Coordinator at GESU Roman Catholic Church. She plans all parish wide activities including the Homeless Coalition. Wilson has been a board member since 2002. Wilson has always been an active board member, and is regularly involved in policy and advocacy strategies. She is a former teacher who has taught at the junior high, high school and college levels. She has Bachelors in Political Science from Catholic University of America as well as a Master degree in Education. She also has a Masters in English from Cleveland State. Wilson has worked to establish the Interfaith Hospitality Network at GESU Catholic Church. The GESU commission is active in the community and has worked with a number of organizations, including FAMICOS, New Life Community, and Sociedad de los Amigos de Niño's in Honduras.
2007 Award Winners
Gail Long became involved in a broad range of social, political and economical justice issues, such as the anti-war movement, bridging the racial divide, fighting for state budget equality, and universal access to health care. She passionately fought for her constituency on the near west side of Cleveland through health care accessibility and affordability by creating a county-wide coalition called Citizens to Save Metro Health that fought against any privation of Metro Health hospital. She has served on the Cleveland Housing Network Board as well as the Cleveland Tenants Organization's Board to preserve and expand affordable housing opportunities. Long did extensive work with Cuyahoga County to protect low income families through two decades of reform of the welfare system. Long's tenacious commitment to stand, walk and work with disadvantaged people is why the committee chose Gail Long as the 2008 Ione Biggs Award winner. We present this award to Gail Long, and her name will be placed on the plaque kept in the main office of the Coalition.
Advocate of the Year: Bryan Mauk
Bryan worked through all the bureaucratic obstacles to create a program at John Carroll University where faculty and students venture off the campus to downtown Cleveland to interact those resistant to shelters through the Labre Project. He is a true leader who, with his continued nurturing of the Labre Project, he sets an example for others. Bryan recently helped to open an overnight drop in center at St. Augustine's center, which provides a warm place for homeless people resistant to come inside. NEOCH salutes Bryan Mauk for service to the homeless community.
Volunteers of the Year: Ronald Falconi and Robert Heintel
Robert C.Heintel and Ronald E. Falconi are both members of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association. Together they handle the West Side Catholic Center. Without their help, it would be difficult to maintain West Side Catholic Center as an intake site. Both of these lawyers reflect the highest standards of the legal profession. They are dedicated to providing legal assistance to people who are unable to hire lawyer. NEOCH salutes Robert and Ronald for their service to the homeless community.
2006 Award Winners
Mayor Frank G. Jackson was the recipient of the award because of his extensive work in assisting low income and homeless people in the city of Cleveland. He was the council president when the Department of Housing and Urban Development began dismantling affordable housing. The call from Washington was that the housing was deplorable and needed to be taken down. Jackson mobilized the community to oppose this policy. He said many times that HUD allowed the housing to deteriorate and therefore has an obligation to replace the housing. He mounted a campaign to prevent the wholesale destruction of thousands of affordable housing units and the bulldozing of entire neighborhoods. Jackson was successful with a number of new townhouses built in the Central neighborhood of Cleveland. Jackson has a long career in community organizing and preserving affordable housing. He was a tenant leader before getting into politics while attending law school. He was the first Mayor to speak to homeless people at the largest shelter after taking office. He helped ease the tensions between police and homeless people that resulted in so many lawsuits in the 1990s in Cleveland.
Advocate of the Year: Jim Schlecht
For his lifetime service and commitment to ending homelessness in Northeast Ohio. Jim is a long time outreach worker for Care Alliance. He has worked in food programs and shelter services. He regularly helps with transportation and housing application. He provides identification to homeless people on a weekly basis with his office hours at Cosgrove Center. We held a celebration of Jim Schlecht in 2013 and have a gallery of this event on our website.
Volunteer of the Year: Bernadette Janes
For the service given to the homeless community as well as dedication and time given to the Coalition. Janes volunteered to write for the Homeless Grapevine newspaper and volunteered to assist at many of the NEOCH events.
2005 Award Winners
Advocate of the Year: Marcia Bufford
For six Years of service to the Coalition and commitment to ending homelessness. Marcia served on the NEOCH board and worked in shelters and social service providers in the community. She had served as a member of the VISTA program, and helped to establish the Homeless Stand Down as a major event in Cleveland.
Volunteers of the Year: Michael Farrell and Michael Shapiro
For the service provided the homeless community as well as dedication and time given to the Legal Assistance Program. Both are fine attorneys in the community and have volunteered for years for the program and have assisted hundreds of homeless people.
Outstanding Journalist: Tom Beres WKYC-TV 3
In recognition of his fair and ethical reporting given to homeless community over the years. Tom Beres was always fair with fragile individuals in the community. Beres is a senior journalist in the community with a wealth of knowledge about the history of Cleveland.
2004 Award Winners
Advocate of the Year: Roy C. Love
For his six years of service to the Coalition and his commitment to ending homelessness. Roy was the homeless ombudsman in Cleveland and a member of the 211 First Call for Help team. He regularly represented NEOCH at local community events.
Volunteers of the Year: Theresa Young and Yvonne Bruce
For their commitment to volunteering with the Homeless Grapevine.
Social Justice Advocate of the Year: Michael Foley
For his lifetime of fighting for social justice in Northeast Ohio. Foley was the Executive Director of the Cleveland Tenants Organization. He was a founder of the Cuyahoga Affordable Housing Alliance and the Housing Cleveland website. He left CTO to join the State legislature.
2003 Award Winners
Social Justice Advocate of the Year: Martin Gelfand
For his commitment the past year in preparing the Tenth District Homelessness Summit, assuring that homeless people are not forgotten within the Federal Government. Marty Gelfand has helped the Coalition with setting priorities and making those program priorities a reality in Cleveland. Gelfand was staff to Representative Dennis Kucinich and one of the founders of the Cuyahoga Affordable Housing Alliance.
Advocate of the Year: Ron Reinhart
For his six year commitment to serving homeless people as a member of the Board of Trustees and willingness to participate whenever needed to assure that homeless people's voices are heard. Ron was an advocate for the merits of transitional housing and was a huge proponent of sober living.
Outstanding Volunteer of the Year: Denise Sobieski
For her hard work on NEOCH's annual meeting, her participation in the development committee, the Community Voice Mail program, and her willingness to always lend a helping hand. Denise assisted with our annual fundraiser, and helped with writing grants.
2002 Award Winners
Volunteer of the Year: Melonie Giblock
For her commitment the past year, helping with the Make A Difference Day, making calls and helping with mailings, She assisted as a human rights observer and coordinated distribution of materials.
Advocate of the Year: David Westcott
For his four year commitment to serving homeless people as a member of the Board of Trustees and willingness to participate whenever needed. David was a long time treasurer of the organization and kept the Board on task.
Outstanding Volunteer of the Year: Kelly Morgan
For her hard work on NEOCH's, database her participation with the stand down and her willingness to always give a helping hand.
2001 Award Winners
Volunteer of the Year: Heather Moga
For her assistance in a photography project NEOCH is developing. Heather is a student at Case Western Reserve University with a cheerful demeanor and always a pleasant outlook.
Advocate of the Year: Toni Johnson
For her six year commitment to serving homeless people as a member of the Board of Trustees. Toni worked with homeless children and veterans. Toni is always raising issues in the community that make it difficult for homeless people.
Media Person of the Year: Lisa Chamberlain
For her vigilance and commitment to social justice, Lisa acted as a fair minded and hard working editor who never forgot her role as public watchdog and superintendent of democracy. Lisa was Editor of the Free Times, and regularly published investigative pieces and hosted advocacy journalism in Cleveland.
2000 Award Winners
Volunteer of the Year: Robert D. Anderle
For his dedication in creating the Cleveland Homeless Legal Assistance Program. He is also an attorney at Porter Wright Morris and Arthur. He assisted with bringing the program to the Cleveland Bar Association, and expanded the program by adding volunteers.
Best New Volunteer: Susan Cihla
For her weekly commitment to serving NEOCH in whatever capacity necessary.
Most Treasured Volunteer: Craig Thomas
For his cheerful demeanor, and ability to turn even the most mundane tasks into important undertakings.


text:
In September
and October, I'm developing a new play with the Royal Exchange,
Manchester. Thanks to the good offices of Sarah Frankcom (who many years
ago directed Showstopper),
the Exchange are paying for a week of research, some writing time, and
then a workshop week with actors, which will culminate in a public
showing of a rough staging of the draft play at lunchtime on 21 October.
I'm working on it with Lucy Kerbel, who directed Manchester last year, and we're developing it together.
The play will be a two-hander, dealing with a soldier offering to blow the whistle on war crimes committed in a foreign war. As his testimony unfolds, the story gets more complicated and unnerving. It's a play about what is right and what is wrong, personally and globally.


text:
Ultimate Fleshlight Guide: Exploring the Ins and Outs (Pun Intended) of the Famed Pocket Pussy
The Fleshlight is one of man's more ingenious inventions since the wheel.
It seriously boggles my mind why it took so long, considering that we've been pretty much sticking it in anything from couch cushions to hollowed-out fruit.
If you've been living under a rock or having a very faithful love affair with good old righty (or lefty) and have no clue what I'm talking about, let me fill you in on what should be in your bedside drawer.
What Is A Fleshlight?
The fleshlight looks what it sounds like – a flashlight.
It was designed by a guy named Steve Shubin, but honestly, it sure sounds like a bunch of dudes came up with this idea during an epic weed sesh.
This man deserves a medal.
It looks innocent enough and wouldn't warrant a second glance, so any wives or moms snooping around wouldn't even have a clue.
The Fleshlight is as simple as it can get.
It's still pretty analog, but boy does it feel so much better than just jerking off with your hand.
It's an encased sleeve with caps you twist off from both ends.
The wider end reveals the opening where you put your wang into and the other end adjusts the suction.
This is pretty great if you're looking to up your stamina.
I mean, let's face it. Some dudes last longer than others and it's really all about preference here.
Special Sleeve
The manufacturer won't really disclose what the sleeve is made of because it's patented.
They call it the Superskin (and I must say it's aptly named), which they say is a special blend of rubber polymers and mineral oil for that more realistic feel.
It's non-toxic and doesn't have that weird chemical smell so it doesn't really take you away from the fantasy if you can get over the fact that you're banging a portable pussy.
Knockoffs are usually made of medical-grade silicone or latex, which can be a hit or miss because some of them can be too hard and can smell a little weird.
You'd know about it if you dabbled in those blow up dolls that were all the rage in the '80s.
They feel exactly how you would imagine it – like fucking an inflatable pool.
Have It Your Way
There are also many different kinds of configurations for the sleeve.
You can buy these separately, so you don't have to have a suspicious number of "flashlights" lying around, looking like you've got the whole town covered for the next blackout.
These configurations have quirky, clever names like the Texas Tornado or the Bump N Grind.
You can also customize your sleeve however way you want, but they're all made of the same soft, lifelike material.
And the folks over Interactive Life Forms don't discriminate.
Your little buddy could be any size and it would fit perfectly into any sleeve.
You can't say that about all women, if you know what I mean.
If you've never heard about this, I don't where you've been.
The Fleshlight pretty much took the States by storm when it was first released in the late '90s.
Men had a more sophisticated option other than jacking it with their hand with the introduction of this nifty invention.
I don't know why they didn't come out with sooner.
Maybe the technology just wasn't there.
But it had to be done and I think all the guys are happier for it.
But why even get a Fleshlight?
So you fancy yourself a creative masturbator and don't think you need this in your life?
Who knows? That may very well be the case.
But nothing feels as good as something that was specifically designed to give you pleasure.
They had meetings about this stuff.
Experiments were done.
Do you seriously think that this is just going to be as good as humping your mattress?
Think again.
Here are some of the reasons why the Fleshlight is the greatest.
I honestly can't contain my excitement about this.
You get what you want every single time
The first thing that ought to mention is that you have three choices right off the bat.
You can get the vaginal, anal or oral versions.
Hell, get all three.
So whatever it is your "thing" might be, there is something for you.
Granted, these orifices don't look like the real thing.
They didn't exactly make it look realistic and, honestly, I think most guys would prefer it that way.
It's a little creepy to have a portable severed realistic-looking vagina in your room.
They really weren't going for a visual experience and that's fine.
The fun part is still up to your imagination or you could just go on good old reliable PornHub.
However, if you're a real stickler for realism, then I'm happy to tell you that they've come up with a series of Fleshlights that are modeled after your favorite porn stars and cam girls.
They made a mold out of the girls' parts and made the openings of their corresponding Fleshlight model look freakishly the same down to the last little flap or crevice.
So if you've wondered what a night (or several nights, for that matter) with Stoya or Tori Black would feel like, then this is just about as close as you can get to the real thing.
And since I'm guessing that no one is going to be involved in your masturbation sessions other than yourself, you can use jack it pretty much any time you want.
No one is going to say no.
It's guaranteed to be safe
The Fleshlight is a pretty big, notable brand now.
That means a lot of people (including myself) swear by their products and the company takes people's safety very seriously.
Of course, no one wants a lawsuit filed against them.
By going the classic route and getting the OG instead of the cheaper knockoffs, you will be assured that you are getting the best quality materials that feel the best, are very safe for your skin and are easy to clean.
You don't want to stick your thing into anything cheap and poorly made.
Since this is a widely known commercial product, it has undergone and passed many different standardized tests to make sure no one wakes up with a strange rash.
It's your little secret
It's pretty obvious that since they made this thing as innocent-looking as possible, discreteness was one of their main concerns.
You don't have to worry about being shipped a human-shaped package either.
I'm sure you don't want the UPS guy to know how kinky you are.
This also won't show up on your credit card bill as a blaring sex toy purchase.
They've got you covered. It will be all in a hush-hush and you definitely won't get flack for this.
It'll help if things are getting stale
Even though when we think Fleshlight, we automatically think solo, this doesn't mean that you can't bring this toy into the bedroom to spice things up with your partner.
Using sex toys with a partner and keeping things exciting by playing and discovering each other's kinks and hidden pleasure spots would strengthen any relationship.
So you could make the argument that this isn't such a selfish purchase.
Ladies, if you're hesitant about getting your man a Fleshlight or just letting him get one for himself, I can assure you that this is no substitute for the real thing.
Nothing really beats the sensation of being with an actual person, so you should never be threatened by an object.
But with that said, it's still pretty fun.
Believe me, he'll get a kick out of it if you participate.
This will reassure him and make him feel that it's safe to share his desires with you.
A lot of focus is given to the woman's orgasm because it's harder to achieve.
So if you've got a good guy on your arm, you probably get all the attention and all the cool new toys.
Adding a Fleshlight to the mix will let him know that his pleasure is important too.
Improving your stamina
Clearly, using a Fleshlight is nothing like doing it with another person apart from the sensation.
You could go at any pace you want. You can adjust the suction however way you want.
What I'm getting at is, this is all about your pleasure.
There is nothing and no one else to consider.
You can take your own sweet time and train yourself to last longer.
The fleshlight feels so good, you would want to prolong using it as much as possible.
Now, if you have trouble with premature ejaculation, this is a good way to practice.
If you're good in bed, it's always still good for edging.
You won't believe how intense your orgasms can get when using this product.
Either way, it's always good to up your endurance.
How do you use a Fleshlight?
Getting warmer?
The truth is, your imagination is the limit.
If you can picture it, you can do it.
But here are some of the more popular and basic techniques on how guys use the Fleshlight.
Make it wet
To simulate real sex as much as possible, you want to be all lubed up before you penetrate the sleeve.
Chafing in any sort of scenario is never a good feeling.
The unit comes with a couple of packets of sample lubes that they offer.
Some of these have a warming or cooling effect.
You'll be able to try them out to see what you prefer.
Put some on your junk and inside the sleeve as well.
You could tease yourself by rubbing the tip of your penis against the opening.
Once you get hard, you'll be able to slide right in easily.
Warm it up
Some guys like to heat up their sleeve before going to town on it.
I personally like to do this because it adds to the fantasy.
The sleeve pretty much warms up on its own as you keep thrusting into it.
That's just how friction works.
But if you want it warm right away, there is a fairly simple solution to that.
Just dip the sleeve in warm water for 2-5 minutes and it's good to go.
If you're a fancy lad and have the cash to spare, ILF offers a sleeve warmer.
This is way faster than the warm water method and you can charge it via USB cable.
This is also guaranteed to not damage your Fleshlight at all.
It looks pretty sleek and is a great accessory to have.
Another interesting way I've found is wrapping the sleeve in a towel and putting it on my radiator.
This will take a bit more time, but it gets the job done.
Just make sure you wrap it in a towel first and don't put it directly on there.
And never, never get any clever ideas about putting it in a microwave.
Positioning is key
Back to basics
The simplest way to use a Fleshlight is exactly the same way you usually jack off.
Only this time, you'll be using the sleeve.
You could be on your back or sitting down, whatever works for you.
Then slide it up and down your shaft as you normally would.
Get creative
This is my personal favorite.
I usually wedge my Fleshlight in between my mattress and the base of the bed.
I kneel down in front of it and thrust away.
This very much feels like you're doing it doggy-style.
This way, it feels more like a simulation of the act itself and it doesn't seem like I'm just masturbating.
You could also stick in between couch cushions, some pillows or even a sneaker.
Get on top of it and pleasure yourself missionary style.
If you want something more legit and don't have to explain to anyone why you have sex furniture, there is a mount that is specially made for the Fleshlight for the best hands-free experience made by Liberator.
It fits perfectly between your legs and once you've inserted yourself in, you can rest your elbows on the front and thrust away.
If this gets boring, you could spoon it and slide yourself in from the side.
It's lightweight and covered with pleather, so that means it's easy to clean up and it's not a pain to move it to any room you want.
And since it's hands-free, your hands and mouth are free if you are going to want to pleasure someone else while you're pleasuring yourself.
This is great for playing out a threesome fantasy with a partner.
Another option is to get a suction cup for the base of the Fleshlight.
You could stick it on a smooth surface like glass or tiles and play with it while you're in the shower.
There is also something called the Launchpad, which is essentially a base for your iPad and Fleshlight.
It's made of rubber so it's easy to grip.
This is perfect if you're watching POV videos for the extra realism or you're just having good old fashioned Skype sex.
Some dudes take it to the next level by treating it as an attachment.
I really get a kick out of seeing these guys' subtle innovations.
There are automatic milking machines that pump for you that could make it seem like you're getting a blowjob or being ridden.
You could also make it so it's spinning as you thrust in and out of it. Like I said before, if you can think it, you can make it happen.
So which one should I get?
Do you feel like you're sold on this yet?
Well, selecting your Fleshlight is a little more complicated that coming up with your coffee order.
However, it's much more fun and a lot more rewarding.
First thing's first, you have got to ask yourself a couple of simple questions.
What's your size?
Knowing (and admitting) the size of your penis is very important when it comes to selecting sleeves.
It's also worth nothing whether your circumcised or not.
There would be no point in choosing a sleeve that varies all the way through if you're not going to be able to reach it anyway.
Also, knowing your girth can save you a lot of discomfort.
You don't want anything too tight because some men report to have bruising after having tried sticking it in a Fleshlight that's not the right size.
What do you like?
You could be a pussy, mouth or ass man.
There are available options for all three.
It doesn't matter much because this doesn't affect the build of the insert.
You can definitely mix and match.
But it helps to keep the fantasy alive by pairing the outer part of the orifice with a sleeve that simulates that particular orifice.
Maybe you'd like lips for the added stimulation and a sleeve that mimics the throat texture.
How long do you last and would you like to improve?
I'm going to be real with you and confess that I struggled with premature ejaculation.
After about ten pumps, I already feel like I'm going to blow.
But after using the Fleshlight for quite a while now, my stamina has improved significantly.
I've tried textures that are crazier than the usual ridges in an actual vaginal canal and have slowly but surely trained myself to last longer.
Honestly, the concept I've applied here is very similar to the one I apply when working out.
After some time, you'll find it easy to do multiple sets with a pair of weights.
This is how you know you're ready for some heavier ones.
Similarly, when I feel that a relatively simpler texture is getting easy for me, I just replace it with a different one that's tighter, has more bumps and ridges.
It's a challenge I never get tired of overcoming and my girlfriend has definitely benefited from this too.
Do you have any geeky fetishes or have a thing for a popular porn star?
Again, this all boils down to preference.
It's a nice extra bonus to be able to pick the opening of your Fleshlight, if you ask me.
This adds to its overall visual appeal. If you've ever had a fantasy with alien interspecies sex, there is a blue skin that is available.
Star Wars fans rejoice
. Now, you can bang the hot Twi'lek of your dreams.
They really considered what everyone might like.
If you're into more futuristic stuff, you could go for the cyborg pussy.
Fancy getting a blowjob from a vampire?
There is a vampire mouth option available complete with fangs (they won't hurt).
If that isn't really your thing, you could choose from a number of porn stars from their Girls line.
These Fleshlights are molded out of their orifices with their signature on the side for a more personal touch.
Choosing the right texture
Okay, you're ready to join the more satisfied population of men on the planet.
Good on you.
I've done my research (as far as jobs go, mine rules) and I'll give you the lowdown on all the textures available right now.
For the rookie
You don't want to get too carried away and overreach when it comes to your first Fleshlight.
You can just breeze through your Fleshlight journey.
You want to enjoy it.
So it's best to start off with something milder and more similar to the real thing.
You can then level up from there once you get used to the feeling.
If you have more or less the average sized penis, here are the best choices for you.
The Mini Lotus
The mini lotus in uncomplicated and feels very much like the actual thing.
This is a great beginner model because it's the easiest feeling to get used to.
This is also the perfect choice if you're a bit on the shorter side.
There are four notches that are very close to the opening that feel incredibly lifelike.
The Kendra Sutherland Angel
You might be familiar with the hot, young, blonde bombshell, Kendra Sutherland.
This is modeled after her pussy.
The sleeve, however, is a different story.
I don't know any woman who is built like that.
It might look a little crazy with all its different textures, but it really surprised me how realistic this one feels.
You'll definitely feel the variety of ridges and twisted ribs in there, but it's far from overwhelming and won't make you cum as fast as you think.
The Teagan Presley Bulletproof
This sleeve looks innocuous enough, but it certainly doesn't feel boring if you try it out.
In my opinion, this simulates anal sex the best.
The Vortex
The name seems like it would be a challenge and looking at it doesn't really scream "gentle," but you'd be surprised.
This is very cleverly designed as it simulates being massaged in a twisting motion.
Think very enthusiastic hand job, but with the softest hands ever.
For the purists
Maybe you're a no-frills kind of guy and don't want anything fancy or complicated.
I certainly thought like this when I was just first starting out. Why complicate something as simple as masturbation?
I've long changed by mind since then, but it's good to get back to the basic and see how ILF earned their fans from all over the world.
The Classic
While the more experienced users would probably say that this is the most lackluster out of all the products they offer, I think it's worth knowing what the original feels like.
This is the one that created all the buzz in the first place.
It will get the job done and if you're the type of guy who gets a little too excited just looking at the more complicated textures, this is the one you should get first.
This one doesn't come with a case and your hand will still be in control of the tightness when jacking off. Think of it as an upgraded version of masturbating the usual way.
It's transparent, so if seeing your penis getting milked gets you off, that's a plus. They also include a drying rack for cleanup.
For blowjob lovers
Sometimes, getting a blowjob feels better for me than actually having sex.
I like the idea that the focus in entirely on me and I get to lay back and just enjoy the sensation.
But not all girls are dying to just go down on you, that's a fact.
And there's nothing worse than a half-hearted blowjob.
Here are my favorite models that mimic that little piece of heaven.
The Turbo Ignition
Hats off to the folks over at ILF.
They outdid themselves with this one.
They even made the opening to feel like lips around your penis.
As you slide in the "throat," there is some resistance and gets tighter, which actually mimics deepthroating.
This is around time your girlfriend will start to gag if she's even willing to do it.
The texture doesn't even look remotely like an actual throat.
Not even close.
But man, it sure feels like the real thing.
You're going to want to get this one if you want to know what it feels like to be sucked off by a master and one who doesn't know how to say no and will swallow every single time.
The Launch
If you want to take it a step further and get a totally hands-free experience, get the Launch.
Powered by Kiroo, this one is a fully automated piece of genius innovation.
I got a kick out of this one because it's compatible with some VR porn clips that could be easily accessed on your favorite incognito websites.
Every movement of the hottest girls you see on the screen, you will feel.
I had to train a long time to even last 5 minutes.
Additionally, you can manually program the strokes however way you want.
You control how fast it is and how long you want the strokes to be.
This was dangerous for me. I never wanted to leave my room.
For the veterans
If you're looking to improve your endurance or you just want the most mind-blowing orgasms ever, here are your options.
The Stamina Training Unit
This is perhaps the most redeeming out of all the Fleshlights if you're going to have to explain yourself to a wife or girlfriend.
No woman is going to say no if your excuse is that you want to last longer in bed. I've got to applaud you for wanting to step your game up.
But if you have no one special in your life and just want to prolong and savor your masturbation sessions, this is a good for that reason too.
Simply put, this is the one that feels most like the vaginal canal. It's very tight and can be quite the challenge for the one who get two pumps in and they're done.
The technique to practicing how to hold off on cumming is to stop whenever you need to and go again.
This is not very possible if you're having sex with a partner.
Most women will egg you on and don't want you to stop.
With the STU, you can take your own sweet time.
Trust me, the more you hold off, the more intense your orgasms get (as I'm sure you've figured out by yourself).
The Stoya Destroya
I love Stoya.
She's that dark-haired, snow white vixen with the smoldering eyes.
She's not exactly the girl-next-door, but more like the mysterious librarian who you just know has some tricks up her sleeve when it comes to the bedroom.
She is known for her hardcore and fetish scenes and has formed quite the sizable fan base.
Honestly, the name lives up to the sleeve itself.
It is a destroyer.
There is an amazing variety of protrusions and ridges that will tickle and squeeze the living daylight out of you.
This is not one for the faint-hearted.
The Jenna Haze Obsession
If tightness is your thing, this is your best bet.
If you look at this texture, you can see that it has got a concentration of soft bristle-like nubs all throughout.
They are arranged at an optimal angle that offers the most resistance.
You barely have to adjust the suction on this one because it will literally suck you in.
You can also see the it gets more intense as you push further in.
If you can last more than 10 minutes with this one, I'd be thoroughly impressed.
This design was conceptualized with the least amount of BS.
It will get the job done, guaranteed.
The Nikki Benz Reign
You've got to a bit bigger than average to fully enjoy this one.
There are three chambers you can pump into that are divided by two very tight and narrow constrictions.
The first one is a simple crisscross.
This opens into the next chamber where there are rectangular bumps and this leads into the first constriction.
These two alone would make any guy blow, but of course, it doesn't end there.
You get a ribbed texture that feels like anal sex and then it ends with the classic angled nubs.
If you're longer than 7 inches, beyond these nubs, it just gets tighter.
This is the one that I haven't quite gotten over and still go back to every once in a while.
If you like a challenge, then this one is for you.
The Adriana Chechik Next Level
This one is a doozy.
I mean it just looks insane.
The main chamber is just loaded with these tiny bumps.
Although it's not the tightest, once you get passed that about 1.4 inches in, then you'll feel the constriction.
The last chamber is where it's at.
Again, 7-inchers or more are the only ones who can get to this part, so it's very important to match the right textures with you penis size to get the best results.
This chamber is unique and houses two long strips along the walls of the sleeve.
Both of them have bumps that you'll feel from all sides of your penis.
I've got to say that this is a strong finish.
One of the upsides of this texture is that it's very easy to clean unlike most of the more intense sleeves.
It actually has a lot of space and is quicker to air dry.
The Dominika Butterfly
Dominika C is up there when it when it comes to my all-time favorite porn stars list.
Modeled after her beautiful pussy, this sleeve's opening is not very difficult.
Especially if you're particularly endowed girth-wise, the first chamber is a walk in the park.
But the second chamber is where it gets intense and it's a challenge from there on.
It's very narrow and the walls have been packed very tightly with soft nubs.
The last chamber is why this texture stands out for me.
It looks like a bunch of stacked rectangular bumps.
Even without pumping so much, the stimulation from these bumps against the head of your penis is sure to drive you wild.
What I like about this texture, apart from the distinct last chamber, is that it doesn't look that intimidating.
It looks like it was designed with a lot of thought and it gives the user the right stimulation on the right spots.
The Vibro
Who says vibrators are only for women?
The Vibro comes with what they call "bullets" which you put batteries into and insert in the sleeve.
These create the most amazing vibrations to surely make you go overboard with pleasure.
If the other models are just not cutting it for you, then this one is surely worth the try.
For those who like to see all the action
I'm not sure why I've developed a liking for seeing my penis slide in and out of a Fleshlight and at this point, I don't really care to know.
I'm just glad they included this option for us who are a little freakier.
The Fleshlight ICE
The ICE comes with three different openings called Lady, Butt and Pure.
The Lady and Butt are pretty self-explanatory, but the Pure is just a hole.
It's perfect for the minimalist.
According to most reviews, this is the most highly-rated one.
Its main selling point is that it's see-through, so you get the visual stimulation of watching yourself penetrate the device.
This is also built to accommodate even the bigger penises as it's about 10 inches long.
It's big and definitely not discrete.
The case can also house any sleeve you want, so you can replace it any time you want.
The sleeve is very soft like a firmer Jell-O.
The best thing about the ICE is the suction.
Gentlemen, this feels like being sucked off by lady with a vengeance.
I can't really compare the texture of the ICE to anything else.
It doesn't feel like vaginal, anal or oral sex.
It is truly exceptional and I can see why everyone is raving about it.
For the traveler
Most of these Fleshlights, even though innocent-looking enough, can be quite bulky and not exactly luggage-friendly.
And like any other sane person, you would want to avoid being held up by the TSA because they just needed to check out this "suspicious" item.
The Quickshot
As the name implies, this is perfect for when you want to just stroke one out and pass out on your hotel bed.
It's tiny and can easily fit in a bigger toiletries case and it's very low-key.
No one would even bat an eye.
This not only comes in handy if you travel a lot.
This could also be good if you are living with roommates or you have a girlfriend who doesn't like the idea of you jacking off with a toy.
Since it's significantly smaller than a normal Fleshlight, it's the easiest to clean too.
The Fleshlight Go Surge
The Fleshlight Go series is a line of Fleshlights designed to be smaller and, might I add, a little sleeker.
Since it's more compact, you'll also have the added bonus of having your junk look larger (if that matters to you).
If you want something easier to carry around and don't want to compromise on sensation, go with the Surge option.
Last minute tips and my final word
If you're still having trouble picking the right one, you could easily just customize your very own Fleshlight.
You can have options with every step from the case, the orifice and the sleeve.
I hope I've convinced you that this is something that you should own if you want to explore news ways to pleasure yourself.
There are very few things we can constantly enjoy in life, so we might as well make the best of it and get the right tools.
Hi! I'm Rick. I've been masturbating for…well…as long as I can remember, and I've had strong opinions about how I do it the whole time. I love sex, but I also love getting value for money. I've been writing product reviews for 12 years now, and I'm here to help you find products that really suit you. In my spare time I love hiking, cooking, and building websites.


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soft palate
Also found in: Dictionary, Thesaurus, Encyclopedia, Wikipedia.
Related to soft palate: hard palate
soft pal·ate[TA]
the posterior muscular portion of the palate, forming an incomplete septum between the mouth and the oropharynx and between the oropharynx and the nasopharynx.
Synonym(s): palatum molle [TA], velum palatinum ☆ , velum pendulum palati
soft palate
The movable fold, consisting of muscular fibers enclosed in a mucous membrane, that is suspended from the rear of the hard palate and closes off the nasal cavity from the oral cavity during swallowing or sucking.
soft palate
the structure composed of mucous membrane, muscular fibers, and mucous glands, suspended from the posterior border of the hard palate forming the roof of the mouth. When the soft palate rises, as in swallowing and in sucking, it separates the nasal cavity and the nasopharynx from the posterior part of the oral cavity and the oral part of the pharynx. The posterior border of the soft palate hangs like a curtain between the mouth and the pharynx. Suspended from it is the conical, pendulous, palatine uvula. Arching laterally from the base of the uvula are the two curved musculomembranous pillars of the fauces. In dentistry, the soft palate serves as the anatomical landmark for construction of a maxillary full denture and establishment of a seal which helps retain the denture in the mouth. See posterior palatal seal. Compare hard palate.
soft pal·ate(sawft pal'ăt) [TA]
The posterior muscular portion of the palate, forming an incomplete septum between the mouth and the oropharynx, and between the oropharynx and the nasopharynx.
Synonym(s): velum palatinum.
Synonym(s): velum palatinum.
soft palateThe mobile flap of muscle covered with mucous membrane that is attached to the rear edge of the hard palate. The soft palate seals off the cavity of the nose from the mouth during swallowing.
Soft palate
The structure at the roof of the mouth that separates the mouth and the pharynx.
Mentioned in: Snoring
soft pal·ate(sawft pal'ăt) [TA]
Posterior muscular portion of palate, forming an incomplete septum between mouth and oropharynx and between oropharynx and nasopharynx.
Synonym(s): velum palatinum.
Synonym(s): velum palatinum.
soft palate
the fleshy partition at the back of the mouth which separates the nasopharynx from the oropharynx and which, together with the hard palate, forms the roof of the mouth.
cleft soft palate
commonly the posterior part is defective but may be part of a defect involving both soft and hard palates. Manifested by difficulties in sucking or nasal regurgitation of milk and food from a young age. Often associated with entrapment of the palate by the aryepiglottic fold. See also cleft lip.
soft palate dislocation
see dorsal soft palate displacement (below).
dorsal soft palate displacement
the free edge of the soft palate is displaced from its normal position under the epiglottis to lie over the opening of the larynx causing reduction in airflow. Common only in horses.
elongated soft palate, overlong soft palate
a common abnormality in brachycephalic dogs in which it causes inspiratory respiratory distress, gagging and coughing. The soft palate interferes with the epiglottis and glottis, particularly after it becomes inflamed and edematous. Other anomalies of the respiratory tract commonly are also present. Affected horses appear to choke, then continue to breathe through their mouth with a characteristic rattling sound. The cause and pathogenesis are unclear.
soft palate myositis
may contribute to soft palate paresis.
soft palate paresis
causes a functional pharyngeal paresis and the affected horse chokes up during exercise; often accompanies laryngeal hemiplegia.


text: Over the Thanksgiving week in America the Xbox 360 had it's largest sales spike in the consoles 6 year history. Consumers bought some 960,000 consoles throughout the week in the US alone. 800,000 of that was in a 24 hour period. With all the new updates and releases coming out soon Microsoft have it sorted. If Xbox 360s sell the most in December this year too then the have the prestigious title of the United States most loved console 2011.


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Wait until the child is ready
This seems pretty obvious, but I know there are some parents out there who have a certain age in mind to get their kiddos out of diapers. Don't get hung up on that. I actually waited until Beckham was over 3 to even attempt potty training. Some over-achiever parents might judge, but let them judge away. If waiting a few more months will save you power struggle arguments and temper tantrums, then JUST WAIT! Kids will show you signs that they are ready: becoming more independent, hiding to dirty their diaper privately, showing interest in you using the toilet, and being bothered by wearing a dirty diaper are a few of the common ones. Believe me, I get it...after changing diapers for 2+ years you are anxious to move on, but waiting until they are ready will serve everyone well in the long run. Now, I'm definitely not saying every child should be 3 years old, because there are lots of kids out there who are ready a whole heck of a lot earlier. I am just advising to pay attention to signals from your child instead of getting hung up on a certain age.
Dedicate at least 3 days of your life to nothing but potty training
I realize this isn't feasible for some of you who work out of the home, but I feel that after 3 days, the kids usually have a good grip on their new life without diapers. Try and attempt it over the weekend and plan on being home-bound for the time which you are training. It's so much easier and less stressful to run to your own bathroom every 10 minutes vs sprinting through Target with a cart full of frozen food in hopes of making it before an accident happens.
Push the fluids
Their entire lives, they have been able to use the bathroom whenever, wherever. So, you have to retrain their little brains to pay attention and stop subconsciously peeing. This is a new concept for them, so it takes a lot of practice to change the old habit.
The more they drink, the more they pee, and the more they pee, the quicker they will get the hang of using the toilet instead of the diaper. We don't drink a lot of soft drinks, but for those first few days, I let him have Sprite, orange juice, apple juice...basically all of the things that are usually considered treats. He will drink a sip or two of water when I hand him his canteen, but if I give him a cup of juice, it's gone in a flash! You could always water down the juice if you are concerned about sugar intake. Again, the more they drink, the more they pee...and peeing a LOT is the goal the first few days!
If possible, let them be naked, at least for the first few days
With my first born, I quickly learned that if anything was down there around his bottom, he became very confused and just assumed it was a diaper that he could pee in. After a few days of accidents, we decided to just let him run around naked (at home of course) and it totally worked! If nothing is down there to catch the pee (or poop), then he was more easily able to recognize that he had the urge to use the restroom and he needed to locate the toilet. When it came time to potty train my youngest, I planned to wait until the weather was warm enough that he could just be naked for a few days. We stayed home for 3-4 days...no errands, no parks, no playdates. Our only exception to the rule was dropping off and picking up big brother from school.
Reward the positive and let the accidents slide
Remember that their entire life has been peeing/pooping in a diaper, so try not to get too upset when accidents happen. They WILL happen. Try to focus on rewarding the times when he/she uses the potty the right way. We used a sticker chart to track his progress. Each time he peed, he got to put a sticker on the chart (He earned 2 stickers for pooping in the potty), and when the chart was full, he got to choose a prize from the prize basket. Our chart only had 12 stickers on each page to complete it, so he was able to earn prizes fairly quickly, which then motivated him to continue doing what it takes to earn more stickers! Get cheap little prizes from the Dollar Store, or since my little guy was into tractors, I ordered some little ones from Amazon and wrapped them up individually.
Some helpful tools:
Puppy pee pads--These come in handy in the car. When we had to go pick big brother up from school, I didn't want to put a diaper on to confuse him, but I didn't trust that he wouldn't have an accident. If you put a pee pad down under their bottom then it saves you from having to wash the carseat should an accident happen!
Potty books--We like this one and this one. I started reading them to him a few months before I was ready to attempt potty training. Once we started training, I kept the books in the bathroom and we would read them while we were waiting for something to happen...because sometimes you just have to be patient. ;)
Reward chart--The charts I used for Beckham were leftover from when Chase was potty training, so they aren't available anymore. But, here is a similar one!
Rewards--Get whatever you think will motivate your child. I found that the instant gratification of opening a physical gift worked better than "we can go to the movies next week". I purchased these and these.
Little Urinal--We inherited a similar one as a hand me down from a cousin. My older son was a little on the short side and had to use a stool to reach the toilet, so he loved this pint sized urinal! But, my younger son wasn't really interested in peeing in it. He could reach the toilet and preferred to use it, I think because he wanted to be like Daddy. Like most things in life, they have very different interests!
Built in Potty Seat--This is super handy because you don't have a separate child potty seat to take on and off...just lift the seat for yourself, and lower it for the child!
Potty stool--to help them reach!
Built in Potty Seat--This is super handy because you don't have a separate child potty seat to take on and off...just lift the seat for yourself, and lower it for the child!
Potty stool--to help them reach!
I keep my kids in a crib longer then most people do...Chase was 4 before we converted him to a big bed. Because of that, I do still put pull-ups on Beckham at nighttime. Considering he can't get out to use the restroom, I haven't even attempted nighttime potty training yet! But whenever we do, I'll let you know if I have any groundbreaking revelations regarding the subject! ;)
***Some of the links are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission. This does not affect the price you pay, but it does help me maintain my blog, so thank you!


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Now you can get tactile control with industrial strength hardware controller for any vMix production. Select from any of our UniSketch based controllers to get fully programmable buttons for traditional operation or advanced automation. You simply configure the buttons to switch inputs, control downstream keyers, activate transition effects and more.
By having a dedicated production switcher interface you free up the computer keyboard for editing titles, handling instant replays and more in the vMix software. This is great for a more effective production or if you want multiple operators to work on different aspects of the production at the same time.
With the launch of UniSketch V2.1.5 SKAARHOJ controllers now support vMix. The implementation is still in beta, and we expect to further develop and expand functionality.
In order to control vMix you need to:
The vMixBridge software is required at this stage in order to bridge communication between a SKAARHOJ unit and the vMix application. In time communication will be native supported by vMix.
Control of vMix have been tested on:
Please notice. vMix control is still in beta so we appreciate any feedback and suggestions you might have.
In the vMix Action List you can see a full list of actions currently implemented for vMix control. We need your help to expand this list with usefull features, so please contact us with thoughts and ideas.
In order for the vMixBridge application to work properly you need to make sure the application is granted access to either your Private Network or your Public Network dependent on which network the SKAARHOJ controller is connected to.


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Bruce Brubaker will be touring in November in France, Germany and Switzerland from November 13th. Our favorite American pianist will be exclusively playing pieces by Philip Glass as heard on his latest album for InFiné - Glass Piano.
"Sa faculté de rehausser, par ses propres accents, souvent plus chaleureux, le language musical forgé par Glass est remarquable" — Liberation
"Un véritable dialogue dans le temps avec les figures répétitives minimales." — France Musique
"A rapt audience let the silence linger, then broke into whoops and cheers." — The New York Times
"Bruce Brubaker is one of the most exciting pianists in the contemporary American classical scene." — Pitchfork
"Brubaker's playing was seriously beautiful, effusively expressive." — The Boston Globe
13/11/16 - Papiersaal, Zurich (Switzerland)
14/11/16 - Neues Museum, Nürnberg (Germany)
16/11/16 - Chapelle Ambroise Paré, Laval (53)
17/11/16 - Le Roudour, Saint-Martin-des-Champs (29)
18/11/16 - La Sirène, La Rochelle (17)
19/11/16 - Festival Eclats d'Email Jazz Edition, Limoges (87)
20/11/16 - Le Florida, Agen (47)
22/11/16 - Le Petit Faucheux, Tours (37)
23/11/16 - Paul B, Massy (91)
24/11/16 - Le Rocher de Palmer, Cenon (33)
26/11/16 - Cavajazz, Annonay (07)
More shows to come in February 2017
Bruce Brubaker album "Glass Piano" is out now on double LP / CD / digital. This album is a sublime collection of solo piano versions of Philip Glass. Bruce Brubaker's forte is understanding and reinterpreting the music of Philip Glass. He has cultivated an intense relationship with Glass' compositions and has met the composer on many occasions to discuss the reworks, instilling a deep understanding for Brubaker of Glass' innermost intentions and idiosyncrasies.
Bruce Brubaker`s Pianomorphosis on Arts Journal (in English)


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It's Finally Here:
|You can enter every day from Dec. 1-12
to win a $25 gift certificate from one of twelve bloggers
AND one FREE year of ESGI.
The $25 gift certificate to my TPT Store is on Day 3.
Your chance to win a $25 gift certificate to my TPT store AND a
FREE year of ESGI.
Just click on the link below to enter:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Check Out All Of The FUN:
at my TPT Store by CLICKING HERE. You will find products that address Common Core skills for ELA and Math, songs, science, homework, and so much more.
Wondering About ESGI?
I have been using ESGI for years now to quickly and efficiently assess my students. You can use their tests or, better yet, create you own that work perfectly with the materials you use with your students.
My students actually beg to be tested! And the data generated will make your administrators and parents smile. From bar graphs to parent letters in English and Spanish, you will find all of the data you need to assess your class, drive your instruction, or create intervention and enrichment groups. I know that I couldn't live without it because I am not spending hours testing students. ESGI is quick, easy, and provided meaningful data. Use it on a laptop, tablet, or even on your cell phone! You will LOVE it.
Have FUN entering every day from Dec. 1-12.
See you all tomorrow.
Palma :)


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We are pleased to anounce the release of KDE Telepathy 0.5.3.
0.5.3 is a patch release in the 0.5 series and provides various bug fixes and updated translations.
- 291653 – Cannot edit identity on local-xmpp account. (Accounts KCM)
- 310529 – Status is displayed as offline when contact list is opened (Text UI)
- 310981 – Avatars are not loaded sometimes (Log Viewer)
- 311928 – Contact list doesn't refresh after filtered contact was moved to other group (Contact List)
- 312339 – Make tab switching able to cycle tabs. (Text UI)
- 312603 – Chat starting time should be when the first message was received, not when the window opened (Text UI)
- 312615 – There should be a shortcut for opening chats, maybe Enter (Contact List)
- 313110 – Emoticons ending in "\" cause UI corruption (Text UI)
- 313437 – Edit Identity button not enabled/disabled when account connects/disconnect (Accounts KCM)
- 313525 – ktp-text-ui crashes, on "bad" sent/received message" (Text UI)
- 313927 – Telepathy/KDE crashed (Contact List)
Source tarballs are available from here and should be in your distribution shortly.


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Cal Crutchlow reveals he injured his hand in MotoGP finale crash
|By Matt Beer
|Thursday, November 15th 2012, 17:47 GMT
Cal Crutchlow has revealed that he sustained a minor hand fracture when he crashed out of second place in the MotoGP season finale at Valencia on Sunday.
You have viewed over 15 free stories this month. Why stop there? Click here to find out how to continue reading.


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Check out these short celebrities images:
1949 Vinyl News, Look Record Guide, Kay Starr Pictured & Featured, Blurb on "Two Black Crows" Comedy Duo George Moran & Charles Mack
Image by classic_film Mini bio on talented singer and performer Kay Starr, via Wikipedia: Kay Starr (b. July 21, 1922) is an American pop and jazz singer who enjoyed considerable success in the 1940s and 1950s. She is best remembered for introducing two songs that became #1 hits in the 1950s, "Wheel of Fortune" and "The Rock And Roll Waltz". Starr was successful in every field of music she tried: jazz, pop and country. But her roots were in jazz; and Billie Holiday, considered by many the greatest jazz singer of all time, called Starr "the only white woman who could sing the blues." Brief info on comedy duo of George Moran & Charles Mack of "Two Black Crows": The Two Black Crows (also called The Black Crows and Moran and Mack) was a blackface comedy act popular in the 1920s and 30s. The duo appeared in vaudeville, on Broadway, on radio, comedy records, and in film features and shorts. The act was originated by Charles Mack (1888â"1934), who hired actor John Swor as his partner. "Swor & Mack" enjoyed moderate success until Swor left the act. He was replaced by George Moran (1881â"1949). The team of Moran and Mack caught on and became major recording stars. "The Two Black Crows" became a weekly radio show in 1928; Moran and Mack also guest-starred on Fred Waring's radio show in 1933. Although Moran and Mack's gags were mostly corny (and very often non-racial) and the characters were stereotypical (one practical but naive, the other seemingly slow and lazy yet quick with a quip and a certain skewed logic), the relationship depicted plus their laconic delivery made them one of the most successful of comedy teams. [...] The team was known for two catchphrases. Moran would remind Mack of some unfortunate event, causing Mack to say, "Why bring that up?" Mack frequently would interrupt Moran's description of something with a drawling "What causes that?" The duo of Moran and Mack appeared in vaudeville with W.C. Fields, on Broadway in the Ziegfeld Follies of 1920 and in Earl Carroll's Vanities in the mid-1920s. They also appeared in George White's Scandals and The Greenwich Village Follies. At the height of their popularity, after completing their first talking feature film, Moran had a salary dispute with Mack and sued him. A judge ruled that Mack legally owned the act and could pay whatever salary he wanted. Moran quit, and was replaced by John Swor's brother, Bert Swor, who adopted the name Moran. The second "Moran and Mack" talkie (without George Moran) faltered at the box office, and the team made no further films until 1933, when the low-budget Educational Pictures studio hired them for a feature film and a series of "Two Black Crows" short subjects. ************** Published in Look magazine, July 19, 1949, Vol. 13, No. 15 Fair use/no known copyright. If you use this photo, please provide attribution credit; not for commercial use (see Creative Commons license).
Alan Moore
Image by Mirka23 Alan Moore is shaking my hand and telling me how nice it is to meet me in person. Let me explain: I used to work for a national entertainment publication, and in 2003, on a couple of occasions, I spoke with Alan Moore on the phone. I interviewed him once about LXG, and once about Neil Gaiman (with a brief followup the next day). He was completely engaging and wonderful to talk to. So, I heard from Top Shelf Comics, the publisher of Lost Girls, that Alan Moore and Melinda Gebbie were going to be doing a talk in London. It seemed like a good time for a short vacation, so I took this opportunity to meet the man, face-to-face. I was a little nervous, so I think I was talking too much when we finally did meet. But he was absolutely lovely!


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Mortage Advisors
Results 1 - 1 of 1
Tapper Financial Services, 40 Birch Street, Birch, Colchester, CO2 0ND
Tapper Financial Services provides mortgage advice from the whole of the market and insurances from an excellent range of providers. We help our clients save money and time with our strong expertise and efficient service. We look forward to meeting you!
01206 331697


text:
South Park Season 2 Episode 12: "Clubhouses" Quotes
Sharon: What are you doing sweetheart?
Stan: Getting a cookie. We're gonna build a clubhouse and then were......
(Sharon interrupts)
Sharon: You men are all alike. First you get a cookie, then you criticize the way I dress, and then the way I cook. I suppose next you'll tell me you need your space and that I'm sabotaging your creativity. Go ahead Stanly get your god damn cookie.
Mr. Mackey: Young man, school is a time for learning, not for your immature skylarkings.
Stan: Skylarkings?
Mr. Mackey: You know, tomfooleries.
Stan: Who?
(Cartman is sitting on Kenny)
Cartman: Cartman Von Cartman has ways of making you talk! (Farts)
Kenny: Aaah!
Stan: If you wanna play Americans versus Bosnians, then you can just play with yourself.
Cartman: Fine, I'll play with myself! I'll play with myself all day along!
Don't lie Stan. Lying makes you sterile.Mr. Garrison
Stan: Do you mind if I watch cartoons? I've had a rough day.
Roy: (mumbles)
Stan: What?
Roy: Chores, do chores.
Stan: My dad lets me watch cartoons.
Roy: Well I'm not your dad, okay? I'M NOT YOUR DAD! Y.. you can't just go around playing games with my emotions! (Roy walks off crying)
Fat Abbot: Hey, Hey, Hey, what's goin down ya'll?
Rudy: Man Fat Abbot, what you doin on this side of the hood?
Fat Abbot: Ya know somethin' Rudy? You're like school in summertime.
Rudy: School in summertime?
Fat Abbot: Yeah bitch, school in summertime, open ya *beep* ears *beep* whore, I'll pop you're bitch ass.
Dumb Donald Clone: I'ma pop-a you're-a bitch-a ass-a to-ba.......bitcha!
Fat Abbot: Hey, Hey, Hey. What's goin' on Rudy?
Rudy: Man Fat Abbot, you need to lose weight.
Fat Abbot: I'll lose weight when I feel like it bitch, shut you're bitch ass mouth hoe.
Rudy: Bitch! I'll kick yo ass.
Kyle: WHOA DUDE!
Stan: SWEET!
Fat Abbot: You think you slick you punk ass blasphemous dope-fiend bitch, I had my Jimmy waxed seven times last week, I'll bust a cap in you're *beep* ass *beep* head!
Kyle: Wow, cartoons are getting really dirty.
Mrs. Marsh: Did you find it?
Mr. Marsh: Give me a second would you.
Mrs. Marsh: Don't snap at me.
Mr. Marsh: I didn't snap at you!
Mrs. Marsh: You snapped at me!
Mr. Marsh: Whatever.
Mrs. Marsh: Whatever? In 15 years you've never said whatever to me.
Mr. Marsh: I don't want to fight I'm sorry.
Mrs. Marsh: I'm sorry too.
Mr. Marsh: Hey, I think I found it.
Mrs. Marsh: That's not it you idiot.
Mr. Marsh: HEY BACK OFF (beep)!
Mrs. Marsh: (Gasps) You just said the "C" word!
Mr. Marsh: ........Did I?
Wendy: Truth or dare?
Stan: (like Chef) Dare.
Bebe: I dare you to shove this twig up your pee-hole.
Stan: SICK!
Fat Abbot: Hey, Sally, why's your eye all black and blue and s***?
Sally: My stepfather hit me in the face
Fat Abbot: Stepfather?! You need to snatch his ass up in a beartrap so no one will find him for days!