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Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy
versión On-line ISSN 2411-9717
versión impresa ISSN 0038-223X
J. S. Afr. Inst. Min. Metall. vol.112 no.6 Johannesburg jun. 2012
A case study application of linear programming and simulation to mine planning
J.A. de Carvalho JuniorI; J.C. KoppeII; J.F.C.L. CostaII
ICopelmiMineração LTDA, Porto Alegre, Brazil
IIMining Engineering Department, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
This paper analyses the impact of the uncertainty associated with the input parameters in a mine planning optimization model. A real example was considered to aid in the building of a mathematical model that represents the coal production process with reference to the mining, processing, and marketing of coal. This model was optimized using the linear programming concept whereby the best solution was perturbed by the stochastic behaviuor of one of the main parameters involved in the production process. The analysis of the results obtained permitted an evaluation of the risk associated with the best solution due to the uncertainty in the input parameters.
Keywords: mine planning, optimization, risk analysis.
Although coal accounts for approximately 50 per cent of the national reserve of fossil fuel, its use in Brazilian energy generation has fallen continuously in the last few years, and coal now contributes less than 1.5 per cent to the total consumption of fossil fuels. This has prompted mining companies to diversify their customer base by supplying thermal coal to other industries such as the petrochemical, ceramic, paper, and cellulose industries, where coal is used for the generation of heat, steam, and/or electrical power for industrial plants; the food industry, where coal is used in the process of drying food grains; and the cement industry, where coal is used in the clinker mix in the kilns.
This diversification has forced the mining companies to develop new products to meet the specific needs of each customer. Companies that produced thermal coal with a calorific value ranging from 3 000 to 4 500 kcal/kg in the past, with practically no restrictions on the sulphur content, have had to increase their range of products. Nowadays, the local market for industrial-purpose coal demands products with higher calorific values (4 700 to 6 800 kcal/kg) and a lower sulphur content (usually below 1.2 per cent). In this context, and with the constant expansion of the global economy, local coal-mining companies are continually looking for alternatives that facilitate the production of better products with competitive prices in comparison with other energy-yielding products such as natural gas, fuel oil, and imported coal. An additional complexity is added to production planning by the fact that major coal producers frequently operate multiple mines with multiple pits feeding multiple processing plants within these mines.
The alternatives commonly chosen to attend to multiple customers in this multiple-option production scheme include the following:
(i) Simultaneously mining multiple mines, multiple pits, and multiple benches (seams) to increase the availability of run-of-mine (ROM) coal with different characteristics
(ii) Washing of coal from each seam separately to enhance the yield at the plant and approximate the characteristics of the washed coal to the desired final product
(iii Minimizing the mining dilution so that the characteristics of the ROM coal are as close as possible to the final saleable product.
The definition of the production strategy to meet a certain market demand is usually achieved by testing a few production scenarios: the finally chosen method should generate the highest economic benefit. However, this methodology does not guarantee that the chosen solution is really the best possible one. With the use of linear programming, it is possible to find the best production strategy to meet the demand of each market.
This problem can be tackled from an operational research (OR) perspective. An adequate thermal coal can be produced with a minimum cost and/or with a higher possible profit. The production depends on a variety of parameters and restrictions such as raw material availability, coal quality (different coal seams), specific product requests, recovery in the processing plant (which depends on the raw material used and on the characteristics of the desired product), and the mining and processing costs. These parameters specify the production of coal within certain limits.
There are various models and mathematical programming tools for solving this kind of problem. Among the several optimization techniques developed, the linear programming (LP) method has been the most studied, and hence the most widely used in several of the applied sciences. LP is not only the simplest technique in mathematical programming, but also the most versatile, offering the possibility of analysing the appropriateness of the chosen model concurrent with a guarantee for obtaining its global best, if it exists.
Due to their complex behaviour, some of the process parameters, can be regarded as stochastic. To quantify the impact of these parameters on the optimized outputs derived from LP, simulation techniques can be used, taking into consideration not only the averages or the deterministic patterns, but also the statistical distributions of the parameters considered.
This paper introduces a methodology for evaluating the impact of the uncertainty associated with input parameters on a given objective function using an optimization program that is based on LP. A case study concerning a major Brazilian coal-producing company illustrates the process by which the economil benefits of using the optimal solution are evaluated in comparison with the solution conventionally used by this particular mining company. Moreover, incorporating the uncertainty associated with the input parameters permits an assessment of the risk in reaching or not reaching the optimized solution.
Model of linear programming
According to Prado1, LP is a technique that allows the merging of several variables on the basis of a linear function of effectiveness (objective function) while simultaneously satisfying a group of linear restrictions for these variables. The construction of a LP model follows three basic steps (Ravindran et al.2):
(i) Identifying the unknown variables to be determined and representing them using algebraic symbols
(ii) Listing all the restrictions of the problem and expressing them as linear equations in terms of the decision variables defined in the previous step
(iii) Identifying the objective or criterion for optimizing the problem and representing it as a linear function of the decision variables. The objective can be either a maximizing or a minimizing function.
Given an LP problem consisting of many variables in the maximization or minimization mode from a specific linear function, which is also known as the objective function (OF), the variables are submitted to a group of restrictions that are also linear. Generally, a problem in LP is formulated as follows. The restriction of 'no negativity in the decision variables' constitutes a necessary condition for the application of the solution algorithm. Although this restriction usually holds good due to the nature of the variables used in the model, under certain circumstances it can lead to situations where the variables become unrestricted. In this situation, an artificial variable should be used to substitute each unrestricted variable by the difference between the other two variables for which the restriction of 'no negativity' is applied (Loesch and Hein3).
Briefly, the algorithm can be described as follows: (i) Maximize or minimize the OF of the type or
(ii) Submit the variables to the following restrictions:
Where xn are the decision variables, cn are parameters of the OF, amn are parameters of the restriction equations, bnn is an independent term of the restriction equations, n is the number of decision variables, and m is the number of functional restrictions.
The values of all the coefficients, or control parameters, are known during the modelling of the problem. These coefficients can have either deterministic or probabilistic characteristics depending on the nature of the problem modelled (Montevevechi4).
Algorithms for the solution
The simplex method is the algorithm typically employed in the solution of linear programming problems (LPPs). This technique uses the available tool in linear algebra to determine the best solution for the LPP by an algebraic iterative method.
Generally, the algorithm is created by a viable solution of the system of equations that constitute the restrictions of LPPs, and starting from that initial solution, it identifies either new viable solutions for the same or a better value for the problem than the current one. The algorithm, therefore, possesses (i) a choice criterion that provides the opportunity for always finding new and better vertexes of the convex boundary of the problem, and (ii) a stop criterion that can verify whether the chosen vertex is the one giving the optimum solution (Goldbarg5).
The basis for the simplex algorithm is in the formatting of the limited area for the restrictions, common in all OR problems (Dantzig6). Such an area is called simplex. Any two points selected in the outline of a feasible region, when united by a line, result in a line positioned entirely inside the simplex. Starting from the verification, the search for the solution in OR problems becomes limited to the extreme points of the simplex area. This observation has facilitated the development of an algorithm of low computational complexity for solving this problem by Dantzig6.
The algorithm of LP can be explained using a simplified graphical sketch; however, the illustration is limited to two decision variables. The example used to illustrate the method uses the following OF:
The OF is subjected to the following restrictions:
After plotting the lines corresponding to the above restrictions, an area within which all restrictions are simultaneously satisfied (hatched region in Figure 1) is defined. The polygon defined by the corners A, B, C, D, and E is known as the 'admissible region'.
To define the optimum solution, the line corresponding to the OF, for a specific value of Z, is initially plotted. In the next step, various values are defined for Z, and the OFs for each defined Z are plotted. A group of parallel lines, known as the lines of the OF levels, is obtained (traced red lines in Figure 2). The OF grows towards the direction of its gradient (arrow in Figure 2), and the optimum solution is obtained at the maximum OF that intersects the feasible region.
In a two-dimensional solution, the feasible region is shown in plan. The equation that represents the OF can be depicted by a vector, so that it is possible to reach the highest point by following the direction of improvement of the OF as determined by the vector inside the space of feasible solutions. The search guarantees that (i) one of the extreme points respectively maximizes or minimizes the OF, and its value is the maximum or the minimum, respectively; (ii) once the search for the highest point is restricted to the space of viable solutions of the problem, the optimum vertex satisfies the group of restrictions composing the problem of LP (Fogliatto7).
This reasoning can be extended to problems of larger dimensions. Bazaraa8 establishes that while searching for the highest point during the tracking of the space of viable solutions for an LP problem, the solution should correspond to one of the extreme points of the simplex. In practice, this can correspond to a point, a straight line, a plan, or any other pattern with a larger dimension.
The detailed mathematical presentation of the simplex algorithm can be found along with practical examples in most of the articles referring to LP; see, for example, Ravindran et al.2, Loesch and Hein3, Goldbarg5, Dantzig6, Bazaraa8, and Bronson9.
Stochastic simulation
While creating a representative model of any industrial process in which the behaviours of all the parameters are not perfectly known, it is not possible to be certain about the results generated by the model. However, it is always possible to use methodologies of risk analysis to mitigate the effects of the uncertainty and to visualize the risk problem (Motta10).
For each group of restrictions that encircle the problem, a group of answers can be obtained from the model using simulation techniques to imitate the stochastic behavior of the process parameters that are not deterministic. This group of answers can be associated with the uncertainty space and can be used to quantify the inherent risk of the given process.
According to the functional visualization proposed by Menner11, in simulation studies, the models possess (i) a number of entrances or inputs x1, x2,..., xr; (ii) a number of parameters related to the system p1, p2,..., pt; and (iii) a number of exits or results y1, y2,..., ys, which are the results defined by a function of the type f (x, y).
Simulation in the sense used in this study constitutes some mathematical techniques used to mimic any type of real operation or process (Freitas12). There are a few other definitions for the term 'simulation'. According to Schriber13, simulation in modelling implies a process or system that imitates the responses of the real system during a succession of events occurring over an extended period.
Pegden et al.14 present a more comprehensive definition of the simulation process. According to these authors, a simulation should fulfill the following objectives:
(i) Describe the behaviour of a certain system
(ii) Help in building a theoretical framework and explain an arbitrary hypothesis, given the observations provided by the simulation model
(iii) The model finally adopted should be able to predict new responses due to either a modified system or modifications in the production processes.
Contrary to the optimization methods, simulation does not yield an optimal result. Simulations provide a set of responses for a certain group of variables that condition the system (Figure 3).
The main advantages of a simulation process include the following (Pegden et al.14; Banks and Carson15):
(i) Simulation is simpler to use than an analytical solution
(ii) Although analytical optimization models normally require many simplifications to obtain a treatable solution, simulation models do not require these simplifications
(iii) Any hypothesis about how certain variables influence the system can be evaluated using the simulation model
(iv) An appraisal of the variables that are more relevant to the performance of the system and details of the interaction between the input variables leading to a certain response becomes possible
(v) New variations in the production process can be screened before practical implementation and their performances can be assessed.
Some systems do not show any probabilistic variables and hence are known as deterministic. In these circumstances, the responses are conditioned only by the input variables and their interrelations. In various situations, the input Variables system is controlled by random input variables and, consequently, a stochastic simulation is used to obtain the response of the system to a set of inputs. In this latter situation, the responses are also variable and are modelled using a probability function.
In the following section, a simulation model is presented that mimics the production process of thermal coal. The model is constituted by the following factors: (i) the input variables, x: the amount of ROM coal originating from different seams or mines; (ii) the parameters of the system, p: the operational cost associated with the mining and processing of the ROM, the indexes of recovery in the improvement process, and the selling prices of the different products; and (iii) the exit variables, y: the cash flow and the values of the liquid assets available. In these terms, the two groups that contain the input variables and the parameters of the system comprise the elements associated with uncertainty, and these can therefore be treated as random variables.
Settings, products, and production routes
Similar to other mineral commodities, coal production can be divided into two main stages: exploitation and processing. Coal mining occurs by open-pit mining, whereby the topsoil and other sedimentary formations that cover the coal seams, constituting the overburden, are stripped first, uncovering the coal seams underneath; these are later mined in an individual and selective manner (Hartman16). Generically, the mining operation involves the production of large amounts of waste material for each ton of coal extracted, constituting one of the more costly operational stages of the productive process.
The case under consideration is at Copelmi Mineração Ltda. Copelmi is the largest private coal-mining company in Brazil, supplying 80 per cent of the industrial market and 18 per cent of the total Brazilian coal market. Its facilities are located at Rio Grande do Sul State, in the southernmost part of the country.
The company currently operates four coal mines, commercializing approximately 1.5 Mt of coal per year. Its flexibility in producing at multiple mines enables a diverse product range with calorific value products ranging from 3100 kcal/kg up to 6000 kcal/kg.
Copelmi's main products are steam coal for a power plant, a petrochemical plant, and a large paper mill, all located within a maximum distance of 150 km from the mines.
During the period analysed, four mines were under simultaneous operation: Recreio Mine, ButiáLeste Mine, Faxinal Mine, and the Cerro Mine. Each mine exploited a number of coal seams with different qualities and reserves.
After the mining stage, the coal from the mines is transported to a washing plant, where it is processed to obtain a saleable product. The coal from each mine is processed at the closest washing plant. During this processing stage, impurities such as pyrite and clay present in the ROM coal are removed to reduce the emission of ash and gas during coal combustion. When the mine production exceeds the feed capacity of the plant due to any operational contingency, the excess ROM is diverted to the stockpile for future use. The washing process yields several types of products. The different production strategies are explained in the specifications of the OF section of the paper.
One of the most relevant operational parameters in the washing process is the yield or recovery. This parameter corresponds to the ratio between the amount of product generated and the amount of ROM coal fed into the plant, which may be stated as follows:
Where R is the yield (%), Product is amount of product generated (t), and ROM is amount of run-of-mine coal fed into the washing plant (t).
In addition to the product, the washing plant generates tailings, which are disposed at the tailings dam. These tailings are predominantly composed of clay and pyrite; however, due to the inefficiency of the processing plant, organic matter can be added to the tailings. In the latter instance, depending on the ash content of the tailings, the tailings can be redirected to be blended with other products.
Mathematical modelling of the production process
The central subject of the mathematical modelling is the description of the production process and its decision variables. The quantity (in tons) to be extracted and processed from each seam can be determined, thus fulfilling the demand for each product commercialized by the company. Optimization is achieved when the production process generates the largest possible operational contribution after abiding by all the restrictions imposed on the production process, in addition to considering the demands of the consumer market.
The decision variables are defined as follows:
Qij: amount of ROM coal of j seam extracted from mine i
Eji amount of ROM coal of j seam used (or added) from the stock of mine i
Ajilk: amount of ROM coal of j seam extracted from mine i and processed by the washing plant to obtain a product k.
The process parameters are, among others: coal yield (plant recovery), production costs, selling prices of the products, and the tonnage and quality of the product specified by the consumers.
Objective function
Once the decision variables are defined, the next step is the definition of the OF. This function is represented by Equation [7], and its goal is to maximize the operational contribution satisfying a certain market demand.
The operational contribution is the financial result obtained by the commercialization of the generated products (gross earnings), except for the costs exclusively associated with the production process (production costs) (Equation[7]).
This function can be better understood if it is subdivided into four corresponding portions: mining costs (MC), costs of stocks (SC), washing costs (WC), and gross earnings (GE). For this variant, a series of parameters representing the economical, operational, commercial, and geological factors are used, which can present either deterministic or probabilistic behaviours depending on the methodology used. The four portions that constitute the OF can be expressed in the form of Equations [8] to [12].
Where: i = index of the mines; j = index of the seams; l = index of the improvement plants; k = index of the generated products; REMi = stripping ratio of mine i (m3/t ROM); CEi = cost of waste removal from mine i (R$/m3); CDi= blasting cost of mine i (R$/t ROM); CCi = cost of extraction and transport of coal from mine i (R$/t ROM); Qji = amount of coal from seam j extracted from mine i (R$/t ROM); CUEi = cost of handling unit stock of ROM coal in mine i (R$/t ROM), Eij = amount of ROM coal of seam j moved on the basis of the stock of the mine i (t ROM); CBlk = processing cost of ROM coal in the washing plant for the production of substance k (R$/t ROM); Ajilk = amount of seam j of mine i fed and processed in the washing plant to obtain product k (%); Rjilk = yield from seam j of mine i processed in washing plant to obtain product k(%); and PVk = selling price of the product k (R$/t).
The restrictions defined in the outline conditions form the system and define the domain of the possible values for the decision variables. In the current case study, the group of restrictions comprises the following:
Geological proportion of the seams (percentage of seam j in the total quantity mined) in each mine
Maximum capacity of ROM coal production from the mines
Maximum coal tonnage able to be fed into each washing plant
Recovery of each product at each washing plant
Market demand
Qualitative/quantitative restrictions.
Table I shows typical numeric values for the restrictions in one of the scenarios examined in the case study.
This group of restrictions defines a mathematical formulation formed by 64 linear equations represented in terms of decision variables. The theoretical background and the mathematical formulation used to represent the group of restrictions in this case study are found in Carvalho17.
An optimization model composed of both the OF and the group of restrictions after considering the simplifications detailed above was implemented using Excel®, using the educational version of the program 'What's Best® 7.0' as an optimizer (Lindo Systems18).
Results of optimization
The outputs generated by the optimization model have been analysed, taking into account the different production scenarios. The production scenarios correspond to the monthly production strategy adopted by the company in 10 different periods during the years 2004 and 2005.
The results are analysed in two steps: the first quantifies the earnings that would be obtained by using the optimization model, and the second verifies the risk associated with each production scenario, considering that the parameters corresponding to the yield (coal recovery at the washing plant) behave stochastically, not deterministically.
Analysis of the responses
To quantify the earnings that an optimization model can generate in the production process, a comparison of the financial results obtained from the optimization model with those obtained in the same period adopting the non-optimized production scheme was conducted. The production strategy proposed by the mine planning staff without using optimization tools was adopted as the benchmark.
The scenarios chosen for comparison correspond to the production strategy adopted by the company in 10 different situations during the years 2004 and 2005. These situations, denominated 'Scenario 1' to 'Scenario 10', represent conditions where the market or the operation caused a significant change in the baseline conditions that define the production strategy of the company.
The optimization process yields as the final result the OF and the production strategy that need to be adopted. These strategies correspond to the amount of coal that should be extracted from each mine, its destination in terms of the processing plant, and the seam that provides the highest value for the specific OF.
To quantify the earnings that the optimization process can generate in a non-optimized process, the final results of the OF obtained from the optimization model were compared with the final results obtained following a non-optimized practical planning process adopted by the company, subject to the same conditions. The relative differences in the values of the OF for each of the 10 tested scenarios are presented in Figure 4.
Figure 4 portrays the results for 10 production scenarios, with a minimum increase of 2.2 per cent and maximum of 8.7 per cent in the gross earnings, when the optimized scenarios are compared with the respective non-optimized procedures adopted by the company. An important practical aspect that needs to be pointed out is that this gain in earnings can be obtained by optimizing the production process within its operational limits, without the need for any additional investment in the process.
In addition to measurable gains as described previously, the use of an optimization model provides greater flexibility in the decision-making process. The method provides the resource to analyse the impact of possible changes in the production process, such as changes in the quantity of product sold and increase or decrease in the production costs.
Risk analysis of the optimization model
An optimization model as introduced above searches for the highest result, assuming that the input parameters are deterministically known. However, when the model is influenced by parameters that are not perfectly known, there is no guarantee that the optimized results will be observed in reality.
In this situation, three questions arise:
How different can the practical result be in relation to the optimized one?
What is the probability of the highest financial result being smaller than a certain expected minimum value?
Which parameter has the most significant impact on the OF?
To answer these questions, the yield parameter was stochastically varied, by which the deterministic values were replaced by simulated values. These values were randomly derived based on the probability-distribution function constructed from a historical series of results (Bratley et al. 19).
For each group of simulated values, the OF generates a different outcome. A statistical analysis of the group of possible answers shows the space of uncertainty (risk) associated with the expected optimal financial result.
Additionally, the coefficient of linear correlation between the group of possible outcomes of the model and each group of parameters identifies which parameter is the most relevant to the final outcome of the model.
To illustrate the risk-analysis methodology, one of the optimized scenarios was chosen and the yield of different washed coals from different coal seams was considered as the parameter of stochastic behavior. The probability distributions of the yields were constructed using a historical series of results corresponding to the previous 12 months. The statistical summary for these variables is presented in Table II.
Two thousand draws from these probability distributions were retrieved and used to calculate the OF.
The variability obtained in the OF and in the coal yield are presented in Figure 5, which shows the relative variation between the results of the OF generated based on the simulated parameters and the results obtained by the optimization process considering coal yield as a fixed parameter. Analysis of the results obtained shows that:
The distribution of the results has a low asymmetry. This indicates that, in practice, there is no tendency for over- or underestimation of the OF value in relation to the optimum value obtained when the average yield was used as the input > The results present a high variability, ranging from -42 per cent to +39 per cent in relation to the optimum value of the OF, and 90 per cent of the values are between -22 per cent and +22 per cent.
To quantify the influence of each stochastic parameter in the results of the OF, the coefficient of linear correlation was calculated for the simulated values with respect to each parameter, and, subsequently, the OF values were calculated. The results of these calculations are shown in Figure 6.
From Figure 6, it is noted that all the simulated parameters show a positive correlation with the results of the OF.
Discussion and conclusions
The results obtained fom mathematical modelling tools, optimization using LP, and risk analysis, suggest that financial gains can be obtained by using these techniques in mine planning. With these tools, the decisionmaker can evaluate a series of choices and hypotheses regarding the production process and thereafter conveniently propose structural changes in the process to generate a higher profit. Among the 10 scenarios analysed, the results of the optimization process indicate that the economic gains could increase by an average of 5.8 per cent, compared with the results obtained by the production strategies originally adopted by the company without any optimization process.
The results also show a large variability in the OF when the yields for the various coal products are used as stochastic inputs. This variability in the input is probably overestimated due to the use of historical data in the simulation process. The historical data used corresponds to a period of 12 months, during which mining occurred in different locations within the deposit. This fact can lead to significant variations in the product quality and yield. Hence, geostatistical simulation should be used to build coal-yield models and, after these simulations of the models are completed, the results obtained should be used to feed the yield values into the optimization process.
The use of a representative mathematical model for the production process generates other benefits, in addition to the tangible gains described previously. It allows a comprehensive understanding, transparency, and interaction of the production process, helping to quickly determine the influence of various factors on the response by different parameters related to this process. Consequently, the model can be used not only for the optimization of the current production process, but also to test alternatives such as the evaluation of new mine areas or the commercialization of other products. The correlation coefficient relating each stochastic parameter and the answers obtained by the OF can be used to rank the parameters that generate the greatest impact on the final value of this function. After the definition of the most relevant parameters, their behaviour can be more closely followed, and whenever possible, be directed toward values that improve the result of the OF.
The use of simulation techniques provides the opportunity to quantify the impact that the stochastic parameters produce in the optimum response. The stochastic approach enlarges the range of information available to the decisionmaker, allowing him or her to evaluate the risk of a given result, instead of depending on a single deterministic value of the OF.
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Paper received Aug. 2010
Revised paper received Dec. 2011


text: Meta Battle Subway PokeBase - Pokemon Q&A Login Register All Activity Questions Unanswered Tags Users Ask a Question Rules Chat What is a good moveset for Keldeo? 2 votes Dex: http://pokemondb.net/pokedex/keldeo movesets keldeo asked Oct 24, 2010 by trachy edited Feb 11, 2011 by Pokemaster Show 4 previous comments Oh thanks. I thought this guy just look Uber to me. commented Oct 17, 2012 by Squier 18 Keldeo doesn't lead the others in the Musketeer quartet. Cobalion is the leader. commented Oct 17, 2012 by trachy Oh sorry. Then I wonder why they made keldeo so much smaller and why did he get the whole giveaway? If it were me I would have given away colbalions and made keldeo available in-game. commented Oct 17, 2012 by Squier 18 Keldeo is smaller as he was a young pokemon raised by the musketeers. My guess is he was a giveaway because he wasn't an important member of the quartet. commented May 6, 2014 by Lobster44 its because they are the three musketeers and he is dartanion ( sorry if i misspelled it) and he is the newer member of the group who eventually surpasses his mentors and becomes the most famous and powerful of the quartet commented Jul 7, 2014 by TeamRocketBossJ Please log in or register to add a comment. Please log in or register to answer this question. 13 Answers 3 votes A physical set. Ability: Heart of Justice EVs: Attack, Speed, HP Nature: Adamant Swords Dance: Makes this set possible. Aqua Tail: STAB. I would rather have Waterfall, but this weakling doesn't get it. Sacred Sword: A powerful move, going through stat changes. Stone Edge: To deal with Flying types. answered Oct 24, 2010 by trachy Great set trachy! You're a boss! Just a question, do you think keldeo is worth adding to my team? I'm just not sure because I hate it's typing, but then again it is the leader of that lame dog or whatever trio. Man I hate all of the Unova legends other than Genesect and Zekrom. The others all look lame. commented Oct 17, 2012 by Squier 18 I haven't liked it in Clear Skies OU, but I've heard it is very effective on a Rain team. commented Oct 17, 2012 by trachy Yeah but typically this guy would not be anyone's first choice for a rain dance team. commented Oct 17, 2012 by Squier 18 It can take down Blissey/Chansey better than most Special Rain sweepers. And it still has a high Special Attack and Speed, so a Specs+Rain+STAB Hydro Pump can do some serious damage. commented Oct 17, 2012 by trachy That is if hydro pump hits. I'm one of those guys that usually doesn't rely on those 120 power 80 accuracy moves or ones similar, with the exception of my hydreigon knowing focus blast. But your point is proven. commented Oct 17, 2012 by Squier 18 Isn't the ability justified? commented Dec 12, 2015 by Wasimu346 Please log in or register to add a comment. 3 votes Keldeo @ Life Orb Trait: Justified EVs: 4 SAtk / 252 SDef / 252 Spd Timid Nature (+Spd, -Atk) Hidden Power [Electric] Surf / Focus Blast Scald Secret Sword Hidden Power gets coverage. Surf gets powa, and Focus Blast is STAB plus takes out those god damn Ferrothorn. Scald is STAB, plus the burn chance is nice. Calm Mind boosts. Keldeo takes so many hits with those EVs. This guy needs OU or UU, IMO. Most of you have faced this set, and it proves domiance. answered Jun 9, 2012 by Ninja edited Jun 25, 2012 by Ninja why not HP (ice) provides both flying and grass coverage and hits for neutral damage on electric. commented Jul 30, 2014 by MarcPokeChampion they can know that u have sacred sword commented Oct 8, 2014 by MasterLucario300 My keldeo hidden power is dragon?! commented Aug 4, 2015 by Jaspar Ma Please log in or register to add a comment. 2 votes A Pokemon with what I think is a very poor movepool, which is bad for a Legendary. Not a very impressive event Pokemon. Ability: Heart of Justice EVs: Sp Attack, Sp Def, Speed Nature: Calm Sword of Mystery: The signature move. Not as good as other signature moves, pretty much Psycho Shock with five more base power and Fighting and type. Useful for Blissey, but this guy shouldn't be in OU. Surf: STAB. Hidden Power Ice: I have never seen a Water type without Ice Beam (at least not in my memory.) This guy has a horrible movepool. Calm Mind: Filler. answered Oct 24, 2010 by trachy You forget Magikarp trachy XD Though the Seismitoad family also lacks Ice-beam. But I do get your point. commented Mar 12, 2012 by Speed freak Please log in or register to add a comment. 2 votes Keldeo @ Lum Berry Trait: Justified EVs: 252 SAtk / 4 SDef / 252 Spd Timid Nature (+Spd, -Atk) Secret Sword Calm Mind Scald Hidden Power [Bug] answered Jun 30, 2011 by trachy Please log in or register to add a comment. 2 votes Keldeo-R @ Choice Specs/Life Orb Trait: Justified EVs: 4 HP / 252 SAtk / 252 Spd Timid Nature (+Spd, -Atk) Surf Hidden Power [Electric] Icy Wind Secret Sword answered Jun 25, 2012 by Mewderator edited Aug 12, 2012 by Mewderator Please log in or register to add a comment. 1 vote Keldeo @ Life Orb Trait: Justified EVs: 4 HP / 252 SAtk / 252 SDef Modest Nature (+SAtk, -Atk) - Aqua Jet - Hidden Power [Electric] - Focus Blast - Secret Sword answered Mar 2, 2012 by Ninja instead remove Aqua jet for scald and give it choice scarf also remove focus blast for calm mind commented Apr 28, 2014 by kool27 Why should (he) change to Calm Mind if you want to replace Life Orb with Choice Scarf? Should it spam Calm Mind or what? commented Apr 28, 2014 by Natsu Please log in or register to add a comment. 0 votes Link to Keldeo's Resolution Forme- http://images.serebii.net/corocoro6124.jpg Ability: Justified Nature: Timid (+Spe, -Atk) EVs: 252 SpA, 252 Spe, 4 HP Item: Leftovers - Scald - Secret Sword - Calm Mind - Hidden Power (Ice) answered Mar 6, 2012 by mblinginballer edited Jun 13, 2012 by mblinginballer Please log in or register to add a comment. 0 votes Keldeo @ Life Orb Trait: Justified EVs: 4 HP / 252 Atk / 252 Spd Adamant Nature (+Atk, -SAtk) - Swords Dance -- doubles attack - Aqua Tail -- stab water move, and it's physical - Close Combat -- stab fighting move, physical - Stone Edge -- great coverage item for better attacking power, he really needs all of the stacking on his attack he can get evs give good physical sweeper traits nature is adamant > jolly because he's still lacking too much attack and his speed ain't too bad answered Mar 6, 2012 by G0LD Please log in or register to add a comment. 0 votes Keldeo-R @ Leftovers Trait: Justified EVs: 184 HP / 64 SAtk / 252 Spd Timid Nature (+Spd, -Atk) Substitute Calm Mind Surf Secret Sword answered Sep 26, 2012 by Mewderator Wow. This is a very viable set with great potential. He could easily set up with his awesome defenses, and then hit back hard with a solid 129 SAtk to easily 3HKO almost anything!!! commented Sep 26, 2012 by DracoArceus Please log in or register to add a comment. 0 votes I suppose I must answer this [email protected] Special moveset: Surf(Power+STAB) HP Ice(Cover against grass types) Calm Mind(Increasing sp defence and increases offences) Secret Sword(Very useful for other Pokemon on your team to use screech+STAB) EVs:252 speed,252 sp attack,4 hp Nature:Modest answered Dec 5, 2012 by AegisDatLash Please log in or register to add a comment. 0 votes I know I don't have to answer, since it was asked about 2 years ago, but I think it's good. Special Set: Item: Life Orb Ability: Justified EVs: 252 Speed/252 Sp. Atk/4 Sp. Def Nature: Timid (+Speed -Atk) Moveset: Hydro Pump (STAB) Secret Sword (Why not) Focus Blast (STAB, good power) Hidden Power Electric (Type Coverage) Physical Set: Item: Life Orb EVs: 252 Speed/252 Atk/4 Sp. Def Nature: Jolly (+Speed -Sp. Atk) Moveset: Aqua Tail (STAB, just because) Sacred Sword (STAB, good for dealing with stat freaks) X-Scissor (Type Coverage) Poison Jab (Type Coverage) answered Jan 25, 2013 by Zirrix Wait Stone Edge not Poison Jab, got X-Scissor for Grass Coverage. commented Jan 26, 2013 by Zirrix Edit it then commented Feb 7, 2014 by AegisDatLash Please log in or register to add a comment. 0 votes Keldeo-R @ Expert Belt Trait: Justified EVs: 252 SAtk / 4 SDef / 252 Spd Timid Nature (+Spd, -Atk) Surf Secret Sword Icy Wind Hidden Power [Bug] This specific Keldeo is one of the best checks to Celebi, in my opinion, It just catches so many Pokemon off guard due to the current popularity of the Choice Scarf set, which runs Surf / Hydro Pump / Secret Sword / Hidden Power [Ice]. Easily walled by Celebi, and even an HP Ice does around 40%, which Celebi can simply recover off with Recover or Giga Drain. Expert Belt is the item of choice, so Keldeo can easily bluff a Choice Scarf / Specs set, causing an easier time dealing with the number 1 switchin into Keldeo. EVs grant Downloaders a great Attack boost instead of Special Attack. Surf is your primary STAB move, hitting Pokemon more reliably that Hydro Pump. It's rarely gonna be not powered up, due to the prominence of Rain in the current Metagame. Secret Sword is the secondary STAB move, hitting Pokemon like Blissey on their weaker Defensive side. Expert Belt allows for the switching of moves, and Ferrothorn is knocked out by Surf and Secret Sword, usually. Icy Wind is the Ice move now that the Hidden Power slot is occupied, and it really helps if you are threatened by Dragon Dancing Pokemon like Haxorus and Salamence, and lowers their Speed in time to get damaged again the following turn. Finally, Hidden Power Bug nails Celebi, one of the best switchins into Keldeo, extremely hard. Here's a damage calculation: >252SpAtk Expert Belt Keldeo Resolution (Neutral) Hidden Power (Bug) vs 252HP/252SpDef Leftovers Celebi (+SpDef): 65% - 77% (264 - 312 HP). Guaranteed 2HKO. That's a pretty hefty amount for a Celebi to take from any Special Attack. And since Celebi will usually have taken damage beforehand, Keldeo usually can clean uo Celebi easily. Stealth Rock and Spikes damage help even more against Celebi. And I think I talked more about Celebi then Keldeo... answered Jul 17, 2013 by Mewderator That calc. Flippin 2HKO's max SDef Celebi O.O commented Jul 17, 2013 by Flare Please log in or register to add a comment. 0 votes Keldeo-Resolute @ Leftovers Ability: Justified EVs: 148 Atk / 108 SpA / 252 Spe - Calm Mind - Substitute - Aqua Tail - Secret Sword Calm Mind : When you get behind that substitute use calm mind, gives you a advantage. Substitute : Need to be safe to use calm mind. Aqua Tail : STAB, and you will be powered up with the use of calm mind. Secret Sword : STAB, and same explanation for aqua tail. If this set was already made by someone else, I'm sorry. Also this set is free to edit, obviously. answered Jul 3, 2016 by Damn Delibird Please log in or register to add a comment. Related questions Any way to use this Calm Keldeo? Keldeo Moveset Question? What's a good counter to Keldeo on a mono-Dark team? Keldeo Wi-Fi event is for which game? What event is keldeo in? should I use a premier ball on it? Outside of appearance, what is the difference between the two forms of keldeo? What is the difference between Regular Keldeo & Resolution Keldeo?? What happens if you hack to put Genesect, Keldeo, and Meloetta in to your game? Useful Meta Posts Vote for Sun/Moon moveset questions How to change your username How to add a user avatar Why was my post hidden? The points system Question etiquette Flags vs Downvotes Anime FAQ

subset: commoncrawl


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Brown Artistic and Edgy Cut with Asymmetrical Bangs
Long thin hair at the back with a thick and full bang on the forehead. Some longer hair from the top has been styled over the already there bang to give it another look with longer strands over the top.The haircut is medium length.The colour is a rich dark brown.
Gary Gill - Monroe Hairdressing Photography: Paul Hopkins Make-up: Phylis Cohen & Terri Manduca Products: Wella


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Have you sometimes found yourself wondering, "Has God really saved me forever?"
Maybe you had a day recently when you struggled with sin--if you're ever going to question God's willingness to keep you saved, it's probably on a day like that. But know this: Though your thoughts about salvation may change, salvation itself does not. Once God redeems you, He takes hold of your life. And He will not let go.
John MacArthur helps put away fears by showing you the permanent salvation that's yours as a Christian in God Won't Let You Go.
August 29, 2004 Selected Scriptures 90-270
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September 5, 2004 Selected Scriptures 90-271
September 12, 2004 1 Peter 1:6-9 90-272
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Introduction to Personal Digital Archiving
Category: Classes and Workshops
Location: Plaut Room
To preserve and share our personal collections of digital photos, documents and videos we must manage them with care. At this event we'll discuss the challenges of personal digital archiving and some considerations for planning your own personal archiving project. We'll discuss organization and preferred formats for photos, records, audio and video, and also strategies for long-term storage.


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Marketers' No. 1 Missed Opportunity
February 1, 2012
Research recently conducted by Ipsos for Condé Nast Ideactive identified significant, and often overlooked, areas conducive to consumer engagement at pre- and post-purchase points. How best to engage consumers' emotions depends on what device they're using and where they are in the purchasing journey.
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Cheeseburger Roulades
- Meat Mixture:
- 2 tablespoons grapeseed oil
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 Roma tomato, diced
- 1 clove garlic, chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Roulade:
- Flour, for dusting
- 2 sheets puff pastry, defrosted but kept chilled (see Chef's Note)
- 4 egg yolks, whipped
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Cheddar, divided
- 2 tablespoons goat cheese, divided
- 2 egg whites, whipped in a small bowl
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, divided
- Sauce:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups ketchup
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Heat a deep saute pan over medium heat. Add the oil and allow to heat. Add the beef and pork to the oil, stirring to cook until browned, 6 to 8 minutes. Then add the tomato, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper, and reduce the heat to low and cook for additional 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from the heat. Carefully strain into a bowl. Transfer the meat mixture to a clean bowl. Allow the mixture to cool for 5 minutes. (Mixture must be cool before adding to the pastry.) While the mixture cools, roll out the puff pastry.
For the roulade: Sprinkle some flour on your counter or cutting board. Lay the sheet of pastry over the flour. With a rolling pin, roll the pastry out from the center, from the top to the bottom, and then out to the sides to make it a large rectangle, about 1 1/2 times the original size.
Stir the egg yolks and breadcrumbs into the cooled meat mixture, stirring in well.
Place half the cooled meat mixture onto the bottom third of the pastry sheet, keeping the bottom 2 inches empty. Top with half the Cheddar and goat cheeses and roll tightly. Using a pastry brush, brush the top of the pastry with a light coating of whisked egg whites. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and half the Parmesan. Repeat with the second piece of pastry.
Place the roulades on a sheet pan covered with parchment. Bake in the oven until golden brown, 16 to 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
For the sauce: In a small bowl, stir the chopped onion and ketchup together.
To serve: Slice the roulades into thin rounds and serve warm with a dollop of sauce on each slice.
Chef's Notes
Keep the puff pastry in the fridge until you're ready to use it. If the pastry gets too warm and soft while you're rolling it out, just chill it for a minute before proceeding.
Make sure that the meat mixture is cooled before adding to the pastry.
Recipe courtesy of Robert Irvine
Cooking Tips
More Recipes and Ideas
Perfect Bacon Cheeseburgers
Recipe courtesy of Ree Drummond
Green Chile Cheeseburgers
Recipe courtesy of Bobby Flay


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2011 was a momentous year for the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs (EAP) as the culmination of much hard work that reflects the vision articulated by Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton in an editorial for the November 2011 issue of Foreign Policy. This strategy guided the Bureau's activities from reinvigorating already strong relations with treaty partners, building new partnerships with emerging powers in the region, such as China, engaging with multilateral institutions, expanding trade and investment, forging a broad based military presence, and advancing democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
Our long-standing treaty allies continue to serve as the bedrock of our strategy. Cataclysmic events proved the strength of our alliance with Japan as we embarked on the massive relief effort Operation Tomodachi following the "triple disaster" of the earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear accident in March. Secretary Clinton visited Japan in April to pledge U.S. steadfast support for Japan and its recovery. In June, building on the 50th anniversary year of the U.S.-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security in 2010, Secretary Clinton and former Secretary of Defense Gates met with the Japanese Foreign Minister and Defense Minister to revalidate and update the Alliance's Common Strategic Objectives. Vice President Biden visited Japan in August, followed by Defense Secretary Panetta in October. Foreign Minister Gemba, during a December visit to Washington, announced the Kizuna Project, a youth exchange program that will build on the already strong people-to-people ties between our two countries.
Our bilateral relationship with the Republic of Korea (ROK) is closer than it has ever been. This past year saw the legislative passage of the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement, a State Visit by President Lee Myung Bak, and the U.S. announcement of participation in Expo 2012 Yeosu, Korea. In addition, Secretary Clinton visited Busan in November to participate in the Fourth High Level Forum on Development Aid Effectiveness, demonstrating our increasing cooperation with the ROK on global issues. We also continue to coordinate closely in an effort to preserve peace and stability on Korean Peninsula.
In 2011, we marked the 60th anniversary of the ANZUS alliance with Australia and of the Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines. Secretary Clinton and Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta met with the Australian Foreign Minister and Defense Minister for this year's Australia-United States Ministerial Consultations (AUSMIN) in San Francisco in September, and President Obama traveled to Australia in November. Also in November, Secretary Clinton visited Thailand to underscore our strong alliance and to offer support for Thailand's recovery efforts following severe flooding. The Secretary also visited the Philippines, where she and her counterpart commemorated the 60th anniversary of the U.S.-Philippine Mutual Defense Treaty and reaffirmed our historic alliance by signing the "Manila Declaration" on board the USS Fitzgerald.
In addition to strengthening ties with treaty allies, we deepened our partnerships throughout the region. For example, we are implementing the new strategic partnership with New Zealand envisioned in the 2010 Wellington Declaration. In February this past year, a devastating earthquake struck the Canterbury region. Assistant Secretary Kurt Campbell and a U.S. delegation were attending the U.S.-New Zealand Partnership Forum in Christchurch at the time of the quake. In response, the United States sent an Urban Search and Rescue Team in the immediate aftermath and continues to stand with our friends in New Zealand as they rebuild.
In August, Vice President Biden visited Mongolia, underscoring our support for Mongolia's two decades of democratic development and our growing economic ties. In July, Secretary Clinton co-chaired the U.S.-Indonesia Comprehensive Partnership Joint Commission on the sidelines of the ASEAN Regional Forum and in November, President Obama visited Indonesia for a second time to participate in the East Asian Summit (EAS). Also in November, Secretary Clinton signed a five-year, $600 million compact with Indonesia designed to help boost household income through increased productivity, reduced energy costs and expanded renewable energy; improve childhood nutrition; and enhance the provision of public sector goods and services. The U.S. Department of Education also hosted the first-ever U.S.-Indonesia Higher Education Summit in Washington, D.C. in October.
Illustrating our whole-of-government approach, in June, Assistant Secretary Campbell traveled to seven Pacific Islands with U.S. Pacific Fleet Commander Admiral Patrick M. Walsh, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Assistant Administrator Nisha Biswal, and Marine Brigadier General Richard Simcock. In addition, in September, Deputy Secretary Nides led the largest and most high-level United States delegation ever to attend the Pacific Island Forum, this year hosted by New Zealand. In December, Deputy Secretary of Energy Dan Poneman visited Taiwan, the most senior U.S. official to visit the island in nearly a decade, building on our longstanding unofficial relationship with the people of Taiwan to advance bilateral cooperation in science and energy technologies.
As Secretary Clinton noted in Foreign Policy, the United States is working closely with India and supports India's desire to play a prominent role in the Asia-Pacific region going forward. In December, the United States hosted Japan and India for our first ever trilateral dialogue. The group agreed to meet again in Tokyo in 2012 to continue their deliberations.
Developing a positive, cooperative and comprehensive relationship with China is central to our Asia-Pacific policy. President Hu Jintao made a State Visit to Washington in January, and at the invitation of Vice President Xi Jinping, Vice President Biden traveled to Beijing and Chengdu in August. In May, Secretary Clinton and Treasury Secretary Geithner hosted the third round of the Strategic and Economic Dialogue (S&ED), the most intensive and comprehensive talks ever held between the two governments covering a wide range of topics from trade, investment, and currency to security, energy, and human rights. We work together with China to tackle global challenges, such as the international community's serious concerns about Iran's nuclear program and our common goal of peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. To keep our relationship on a positive trajectory, we have been honest about our differences and areas where significant challenges remain, such as the need to level the playing field for U.S. businesses in China and to live up to international human rights standards. As part of our long term commitment to improved dialogue with China through mutual understanding, in April Secretary Clinton and State Councilor Liu Yandong co-chaired the Consultation on People-to-People Exchanges (CPE) which promoted exchanges in various fields. The 100,000 Strong Initiative, a public-private effort that seeks to increase the number of Americans studying in China, gained significant traction, including a December concert in Beijing headlined by will.i.am, apl.de.ap, John Legend and several Chinese pop stars.
As part of our commitment to engaging the region's multilateral institutions, President Obama and Secretary Clinton traveled in Bali in November to officially begin U.S. membership in the East Asia Summit (EAS). During the EAS, President Obama encouraged an open discussion and tangible multilateral progress on the region's consequential political and strategic issues, including maritime security, nonproliferation, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. Also in Bali, President Obama met with the leaders of the ten member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations at the 3rd ASEAN-U.S. Leaders Meeting. The leaders agreed to launch the $25 million ASEAN-United States Partnership on English Education in ASEAN, funded generously by the government of Brunei. The partnership will help unify the diverse members of ASEAN, improve English language capacity, and advance educational and teaching opportunities in the region. In July, Secretary Clinton participated for the third time in the ASEAN Post Ministerial Conference (PMC) where she led the U.S. delegation to the 18th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and the EAS Ministerial. At the ARF, Secretary Clinton reiterated the United States' principles-based approach to South China Sea disputes, advocated for denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, and discussed developments in Burma. Secretary Clinton also hosted the fourth Lower Mekong Initiative (LMI) Ministerial Meeting with the foreign ministers of Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam, and the first "Friends of the Lower Mekong" (FLM) meeting.
Harnessing the economic growth potential within the Asia-Pacific is critical to our foreign policy in the region. As hosts for Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) throughout 2011, the United States focused on building enduring economic architecture in the Asia-Pacific that is open, free, transparent, and fair. We reached the broad outlines of an agreement on the Trans-Pacific Partnership, or TPP, at the November APEC leaders' meeting in Hawaii. In late 2011, the landmark U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) passed in both the U.S. Congress and Korean National Assembly. KORUS is currently in the implementation process and is expected to enter into force early this year.
The United States' security presence in the Asia Pacific focuses on supporting our allies, ensuring the stability of a vital region, and advancing U.S. interest in non-proliferation, maritime security, fisheries and relief from disasters like tsunamis. In November, President Obama announced in Canberra that U.S. Marines would be seasonally stationed in Darwin, Australia, enhancing our ability to train, exercise, and operate with allies and partners across the region, and to cooperatively respond more quickly to a wide range of challenges, including humanitarian crises and disaster relief.
As we work to deepen our engagement around the region, we remain firmly committed to urging countries to embrace reforms to improve human rights and democracy. As part of our dual-tracked "principled engagement" policy of pressure and engagement with the Burmese government, Secretary Clinton made an historic visit to Burma November 30-December 2. She met with officials in Nay Pyi Taw and with Aung San Suu Kyi and civil society leaders in Rangoon. During her visit, the Secretary noted that if the Government of Burma keeps moving in the right direction, the United States will be prepared to take further steps. On January 13, 2012, Secretary Clinton announced that based on recent progress we've seen taken by the government of Burma, we will now begin, in consultation with members of Congress and at the direction of President Obama -- the process of exchanging ambassadors with Burma. However, there is more work to be done, and we will continue to work with the government on their reform and reconciliation efforts, including taking further steps to address the concerns of ethnic minority groups, making sure that there is a free and fair by-election, and making all the releases from prison unconditional, and making sure that all remaining political detainees are also released. We also continue to urge the Burmese to sever all illicit military ties with North Korea.
EAP's dedicated staff of more than 200 Foreign Service Officers and Civil Service employees in Washington, D.C. and nearly 9,000 State Department employees at overseas posts work daily in ways large and small to forge the partnerships in the region. In the Secretary's Foreign Policy article, she posed the question: "Beyond our borders, people are also wondering about America's intentions -- our willingness to remain engaged and to lead. In Asia, they ask whether we are really there to stay, whether we are likely to be distracted again by events elsewhere, whether we can make -- and keep -- credible economic and strategic commitments, and whether we can back those commitments with action." Under the leadership of Secretary Clinton and Assistant Secretary Campbell, the talented professionals of the Bureau of East Asia and Pacific Bureau every day of the year answer with a resounding, "We can, and we will."
Editor's Note: Secretary Clinton delivered remarks on "America's Pacific Century" at the East-West Center in Honolulu, Hawaii on November 10, 2011. You can watch her remarks in the video player above the text of this blog entry, or read the transcript of her remarks here.
Brian T. in New York writes:
" The Wealth of any Nation is it's large Domestic Manufacturing for Export Sales - to Say Other is to Bed with Fools & Liars " ~us congress 1800's
" The Founding Agreement between Business and Government is Business shall gain Access to Our Markets in turn for Employing Our Citizens " ~basis of Nation Building
Bush_Clinton_Obama's Continued Gutting of our Nations Historic National Wealth Generating Ability: Our Former Large Domestic Manufacturing for Export Sales:
GE CEO Jeffrey Immelt, The Head Of Obama's Jobs Council, Is Moving Jobs And Economic Infrastructure To China At A Blistering Pace
This Corporatist Fascism crafted by ex CIA director G.H.W.Bush & forwarded by Bill Clinton's Deregulation of our Trade & Labor Laws oversaw the loss in just a 10 year period of some 40,000 to 60,000 FACTORIES from our Nation and the throwing aside of Our Nations Workforce in favor of China's Communist Government's Workforce.
The Clintons Racketeering Legislation has 1 in 2 Adult Americans now in Poverty, 1 in 3 American Children now in Poverty, 400,000 New Unemployed Americans every 30 days for 3 consecutive Years.
His changes to Our Law made it ' Legal ' to Unemploy our Tax Payers, De Funding our Consumer Economy, De Funding Local_Regional_State_Federal Government at all levels and the De Funding Attacks by both Party's aimed at our hard won Health_Education_Welfare Programs.. huge setbacks for Our Nation at the hands of Corporatist Cronism.
We Citizens will eventually get rid of you and your abuses .. Legally.
The Majority of the Nation is against your continued policies of National Wealth Destruction and the Draconian assaults on Civil Liberties put in place to protect this Neu Fascism the Bush_Clinton_Obama Families have foisted upon America.
Are we Clear, Gentlemen?


text:
Understanding the Difference Between Agency-Owned and Independent Corporate Trade Companies
December 4, 2012
Kevin Farkas, EVP, sales and business development, Active International, and Robert Pankuck, SVP, managing director, Active International, outlined the differences between the two models and what to consider when selecting a corporate trade partner.
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Overcast ~
High: 49°F ~ Low: 46°F
Monday, Jan. 23, 2017
Hey folks, I need some suggestions for internet out here on the hillPosted Sunday, July 8, 2012, at 5:33 PM
We have been carrying two services to allow for storm clouds (yeah, right) and other uh-ohs but last week I dropped one who could not seem to give me a connection that stayed live for more than 5 minutes. It was wireless and although I gave them one more chance to send me a NEW receiver/router rather than a refurbished, it wasn't to be.
The other service is satellite. Dependable (except for those non-existent storms which would be understandable, if we got them) but the speed leaves a lot to be desired. It is tolerable but, not great.
Soooo, I search on. We can't get DSL or cable out here so my choices are limited. Anyone know a good wireless I should check out?
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I used to live at the base of Chestnut Ridge down in a little valley between two big hills. All I could get out there was HughesNet. EXPENSIVE!
-- Posted by CindyLou on Wed, Jul 25, 2012, at 2:19 PM
As soon as I saw U-verse was AT&T I was pretty sure I knew the answer, but I checked. Not available. No DSL lines out here in the woods.
-- Posted by stevemills on Wed, Jul 25, 2012, at 9:09 AM
I'll check it out. Hope we'll see you again at Weed'em & Reap some time?
-- Posted by stevemills on Wed, Jul 25, 2012, at 8:48 AM
Steve, U-verse might work as it comes in by phone line. Very happy with mine.
-- Posted by cherokee2 on Tue, Jul 24, 2012, at 4:34 PM
Oh, I forgot to add that Wild Blue said yes, but they want to take out the Wild Blue I have already and replace it with company direct equipment, sign a two year contract.
I might still do it, but they also tried to pressure me to do it that day, "before our million slots closed down for this satellite and they won't have another new satellite until 2014".
I wanted to change but the strong arm tactic was not appreciated and made me pull back. I'm a salesman and do not like that approach.
-- Posted by stevemills on Sat, Jul 21, 2012, at 6:53 AM
Well, every lead I have pursued has fizzled. Verizon still cannot help, Monster never tried, and AT&T just never called back.
For some reason AT&T has an account attached to my street address and cannot seem to remove it. I said if they were paying the bill, just add me on as a dependent, but....not yet. :-)
-- Posted by stevemills on Sat, Jul 21, 2012, at 6:49 AM
I am surprised that Verizon never offered me the Cantenna. Maybe they already know I am "fringe".
Monster may reach me but if they are taking this ling to just contact me after my request, it pretty muchg tells me to look elsewhere.
Wild Blue also did not tell me about Excede, or maybe Ben Lomand does not subscribe to it, I'll check it out.
I may take you up on the offer but I have terminated Verizon at the moment. I can tether my cell phone for $20 a month but I really need two services at the house not with me.
I'll check out Wild Blue direct and see what goes.
-- Posted by stevemills on Sun, Jul 15, 2012, at 3:02 PM
Wildblue was the satellite company we used for a few years (no other options at the time...) they were purchased by ViaSat a few years back.
But now they have a new satellite that runs comparable speeds to 4G (haven't heard much about how it performs in "stormy weather"), called Excede. They have a good deal going on right now.
We use Verizon's MiFi device that gets 4G speeds, and it never goes down in storms. ;) Verizon also has the new Cantenna that mounts to the side of your house much like a Satellite dish. There is an installation fee with this service, but you do get more than double the data caps when compared to the MiFi device.
I've tried Athena and Monster, neither of which reach us.
-- Posted by darrick_04 on Sun, Jul 15, 2012, at 1:08 PM
I dont know about better reception, but the Cradelpoint alows me to remove the verizon modem and take it with me when I travel and to use outside. I needed a wifi in my house to use for my ipad and for guests to use when they visit. Since I all ready had the verizon mobile modem I didn't need to get the MI-Fi and wasn;t subject to a new two year contract. If you would like I will bring mine by and you can check out speed and reception before you commit. I go by your street regularly. (I also took one of your ebay classes so now you and your wife.) Let me know if you would like to try it out.
-- Posted by Equinepro on Sat, Jul 14, 2012, at 6:24 PM
The Cradelpoint modem has better reception than the modem Verizon Mi-Fi?
-- Posted by stevemills on Fri, Jul 13, 2012, at 8:50 PM
I have Verizon Broadband and use a Cradelpoint modem. Works great. Can connect 10 devices. I get pretty good speed were I am. Other side of town than you. If you need more info, let me know.
-- Posted by Equinepro on Thu, Jul 12, 2012, at 8:24 PM
Thanks William. We actually live outside BB but as many in the area, our mailing address is there. I check things out with the new MiFi.
Monster has not contacted me yet, so I will have nothing to compare, but....
-- Posted by stevemills on Wed, Jul 11, 2012, at 10:19 PM
Steve, I do not know where you live, but I currently live in the Bell Buckle area. I have lived in other poor service areas. Both areas have poor or no cell phone service. However what I am going to suggest to you has worked great for me. Try a Verizon Mi-Fi card. Depending upon which one you get you can run 5 to 10 computers on it without a router. I have had satellite and it was more expensive and slower.
My experience has been that the Mi-Fi cards pick up better than cell phones and I have heard that some of the Mi-Fi cards have 2 antennas. In one area that I used to live in I had to buy a cell phone booster to make the mi-fi work...do not buy the Verizon booster, but just a regular one from Best Buy or somewhere. where I live in BB the cell phone service is spotty, but I have no booster and the mi-fi works great.
You have 15 days to try it out and another great feature I like is that I can carry it with me...no more using unsecure wi-fi spots.
Good luck,
-- Posted by HorseGentler on Wed, Jul 11, 2012, at 1:53 PM
Oh moonwalker, I can no longer exist with dialup. My wife and I sell on eBay and if I asked her to upload or do research with dialup.....well let's just say, it would not be pretty. :-)
I am off to look at a "monster".
-- Posted by stevemills on Sun, Jul 8, 2012, at 8:51 PM
Hey Steve, I live with dialup! Ten bucks a month. I get everything I need, weather, news and T-G.
-- Posted by moonwalker on Sun, Jul 8, 2012, at 8:37 PM
You might want to try Monster Broadband . . .
-- Posted by jaxspike on Sun, Jul 8, 2012, at 6:58 PM
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Steve Mills and his wife have one daughter. They previously owned two coffee/ice cream shops, currently operate an internet sales company and teach classes, but his primary job involves the paper industry worldwide. Hobbies and interests lie in gardening, photography, recorded music and of course, their pets.
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If you have a creative bone, believe in recycling, repurposing and need a good read


text:
Sunny's Simple Crabcakes with Celery Root Remoulade
- 4 thick slices white bread, crust trimmed and bread torn
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chopped Vidalia onion
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 scallion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon seafood boil seasoning (recommended: Old Bay)
- 3 cloves garlic, grated on a rasp or minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 egg whites
- 1 pound lump crabmeat, picked through for shells
- Celery Root Remoulade, recipe follows
- Celery Root Remoulade:
- 1 celery root
- 10 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves stripped and gently chopped
- 1/2 to 1 cup mayonnaise (depending on the size of the celery root)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Heat oven to 400 degrees F.
In a large bowl add the bread, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt.
In a medium saute pan over medium heat add the butter, olive oil, onion, celery, and scallion. Season with salt and pepper, then add the seafood boil seasoning. Stir and cook until the vegetables are tender, but not browned. Add the garlic and cook 5 minutes more. Remove from the heat, stir in the lemon zest and let it cool. Once cooled, add to the bowl with the milk and bread. Stir to combine then add the egg whites and stir to combine. Add the crabmeat and lightly combine with your hands. Divide and make into 8 balls; the batter will be moist. Place the balls on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 10 minutes.
Bake until light golden brown, 30 to 35 minutes. Serve with a spoonful of my Celery Root Remoulade, recipe follows.
Trim the root end of the celery root and trim the skin off all around. Shred the celery root using a box grater or the grater attachment on a food processor.
In a medium bowl combine the celery root, thyme, mayonnaise, vinegar, grainy mustard, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, and sugar. Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving. Yield: 3 cups
Recipe courtesy of Sunny Anderson
Cooking Tips
More Recipes and Ideas
Sunny's Simple Red Cabbage Kraut
Recipe courtesy of Sunny Anderson
Crab Cakes Chiarello with Shaved Fennel Salad
Recipe courtesy of Michael Chiarello


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Legion, City Insurance win district titles
MARQUETTE – A 2-0 win over host Calumet Feb. 3 gave the Marquette American Legion Bantam AA hockey team the District 8 championship.
Tristan Ashbrook and Nick Bink notched goals and goaltender Travis Cameron made 21 saves for Legion, which advances to the MAHA State championships in Dimondale March 8-10.
Aydin Frost and Spencer DenBeste picked up assists for the Marquette club, now 26-23-8 overall. Ian Carroll came up with 27 stops in net for Calumet.
"They all really stepped it up and played good, team hockey," Legion coach Brian Nebel said of his squad, "giving it their all every shift (and) limiting the number of quality (scoring) chances.
"(Also) Travis was solid in net when he needed to be."
Feb. 2, after Calumet had beaten Houghton/Hancock 4-2 the night before, Legion dropped Houghton/Hancock 6-3 behind five goals by Bink. Hunter Doucette tallied the other Marquette goal.
Recording assists were DenBeste (4), Chris LeMire (5), Frost and Bink.
Cameron came up with 19 stops, while Houghton/Hancock counterpart Dawson Kero made 30 saves.
City Insurance claims
Winning three games, the City Insurance Pee Wee AA hockey team of Marquette won the District 8 championship the weekend of Feb. 1-3.
In the first game, the Sentinels outshot Escanaba 48-16 en route to a 4-0 win. Daunte Fortner scored three goals and Luke Beerman one for the winners.
Tanner Phillips and Nate Bordson each collected two assists, while Reece Fortner and Nick Leafers picked up one apiece.
Tyler Bergwall earned the shutout in net with 16 saves.
In the second contest, Bordson scored twice while teammates D. Fortner, Beerman and Sean O'Connor tallied once each as City Insurance defeated the Keweenaw Storm, 5-2.
Bordson, Beerman and Ted Hoenke each posted two helpers, while Kobie Guidebeck and Phillips had one helper apiece.
Dylan Sibilsky turned aside 26 shots on goal in the win.
Feb. 3,the Sentinels pounded host Calumet, 10-1, with Bordson scoring three goals and picking up four assists.
Beerman added a hat trick and one assist; D. Fortner (2 goals, 1 assist), Reece Fortner (1 goal, 2 assists), O'Connor (1 goal, 1 assist) and Chris Sliva (2 assists) all posted multi-point games.
Ted Hoenke, Ethan Jones and Phillips each contributed an assist.
Sibilsky made 16 saves for City Insurance (39-16-2).
Togo's Midget 18U goes
The Marquette Togo's 18U hockey team increased its winning streak to seven games by capturing five contests Feb.1-3.
Togo's won its first game on the weekend, 4-2, over the visiting Munising 18U squad.
On Feb. 2, the Marquette skaters swept host Iron Mountain Blagec Brothers, 8-1 and 3-2.
Leading the scoring in the opening contest were Torrey Boyak and Noah Paquette with a hat trick each. Jake Kolinsky and Alex Baker added single tallies.
Collecting assists were Hayden Rogers (4), Collin Rajala (3), Bill Mullet (2), Baker (2), Kolinsky, Jacob Marks and Boyak.
In the second game, Baker, Rogers and Boyak posted tallies, with helpers going to Boyak (two), Paquette and Baker.
On Feb. 3, Togo's hosted the Calumet Michigan State Police 18U team at the Berry Events Center and came away with 9-1 and 4-3 victories.
In the opener, Boyak led the way with another hat trick, while Baker and Rogers added two goals each. Paquette and Jake Roemer chipped in single markers.
Earning assists were Paquette (2), Mullet (2), Rajala (2) and Kolinsky (2), as well as Patrick Bulinski, Rogers, Cote Marshall, Connor Remsburg and Boyak.
In the 4-3 Togo's triumph, Mullet scored twice to go along with tallies by Rajala and Boyak. Helpers went to Rogers, Roemer, Travis Aho, Kolinsky and Rajala.
Togo's raised its season record to 21-9-0 with the wins.
mBank cruises
The Marquette mBank girls' hockey scored 40 goals and posted four shutouts on a Feb. 2-3 visit to Iron River.
Kayce Mullet led the way offensively with two natural hat tricks and a total of eight goals.
She was followed in scoring by Brooke Swajanen (5 goals, 5 assists) and Libbie Doney (5 goals, 3 assists).
Other scoring came from Faith Martin and Taylor Swajanen (both with 4 goals, 1 assist), Amanda Gray (3 goals, 1 assist), Annie Boyer (3 goals), Freya Holferty and Taylor Swajanen (2 goals each), and Lauryn Folker and Jillian Frye (1 goal apiece).
The mBank goaltenders were Lexi Guideback (nine saves) and Lauryn Folker (20 stops).
Wells Fargo U14 girls
go 1-2
Traveling to Sault Ste. Marie (Ontario, Canada) Feb. 2-3, the Marquette Wells Fargo U14 girls hockey team won one game and lost two.
In the first contest, a 4-2 loss to the Jaguars, Chloe Krause and Kailey Godfrey scored for Marquette. Hannah Swajanen and Paris Wegleitner drew assists.
In Game 2 against the Jaguars, Wells Fargo fell, 3-2, despite goals by Ashlyn Steer and Kara Salo. Chantel LaBlonde and Salo picked up helpers.
In the third game against a select team (no name available), Wells Fargo won, 6-1
Abbie Tollefson, Lexi Anderson (2), Salo, Swajanen and Steer scored for the winners. Briana Holman tended the net for all three games and made 49 total saves.
TriMedia Squirts Skate
on the Edge
An 8-0 win over Spring Lake Park Jan. 27 in the Skate on the Edge Tournament in Duluth, Minn., gave the TriMedia Squirt AA Sentinels a seventh place finish.
Cooper Anderson led the way with five goals and an assist. Joseph Luke added a marker and three helpers.
Jacob Peterson and Brayden Stannard notched the other TriMedia goals, while Andrew Fedrizzi, Jacob Hendrickson and Hogan Nemetz picked up assists.
Goaltender Preston Maki stopped 24 shots.
Jan. 26, TriMedia fell to Rogers, 1-0, though Maki came up with 39 saves.
Later the same day, Marquette dropped a 6-3 decision to St. Michael Albertville, though Maki turned aside 28 shots.
Nemetz, Peterson and Anderson found the back of the net for the Sentinels. Stannard drew two helpers.


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Come to our undergraduate Information Session for an overview of academics, campus life, athletics, financial aid and the admission process. This session will provide time for questions and answers and a student-guided tour of the campus, including residence halls, academic buildings, athletic facilities, the dining hall, and the library.
Contact Jennifer Yost, admission counselor, at firstname.lastname@example.com or 610-647-4400 ext. 3017 for additional information.


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Lois McDonald
McDONALD, Lois, 96, of Alpena died Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013, at home. She is survived by two daughters, Cleta (Charles) Becker, Anna May (Wilbur Wildfong) and one son, Gary Lee, all of Alpena; 10 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; 23 great-great-grandchildren; brother, A.J. (Shirley) Brabazon of Alpena, and a sister, Verla McIntyre of North Carolina.


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Humbled Hurons
BATTLE CREEK- The Rogers City softball team played well on Friday against Kalamazoo Christian Comets (32-7) in their division four semifinal match-up, but consistent pitching by Stephanie VanderLugt and a few rare kinks in Rogers City's defense cost the Hurons their shot at a state championship with a 2-0 loss.
"Out bats weren't hot like they usually are. The pitcher was good, I'll give her that, and she pitched a good game. It really came down to two little errors that cost us the game. If we'd have stayed tied 0-0 and went extra innings, things would have turned out differently," Rogers City senior Brooklyn Idalski said.
The Comets' first run came in the bottom of the fourth inning off a Kara Gjeltema home run. Nikki Radke started the game for Rogers City (33-7) and it was only the fourth hit she gave up in the game.
She struck out one batter and gave up three singles.
Idalski closed the game, pitching the fifth and sixth innings. She gave up two hits including a double by Carly VanderLugt, who was later driven in off a bad throw to first.
Both pitchers gave up a combined six hits for the Hurons.
The rest of the game was a battle of wills against Stephanie VanderLugt and the Huron batters. Normally strong batters like Logan Fleming, Morgan Hall, Idalski and Courtney Streich were shut out, either popping up or striking out.
VanderLugt struck out nine batters, including two three-strikeout innings and she gave up only two hits and one walk. Alexa Quaine got on first off a Hannah Rozeveld error but was left stranded.
The Hurons started the game aggressively at the plate as each of the first four batters hit at Stephanie VanderLugt's first offering. Nikkie LaLonde picked up Rogers City's first hit, but was left on base.
"You want to wait for the good pitch and in the first inning we came out swinging at the first pitch, each of which looked like a good pitch. Once she (Stephanie VanderLugt) settled down, she kept getting ahead in the count and we couldn't catch up," Rogers City coach Karl Grambau said.
Sarah Meredith hit the Hurons' other single with one out in the top of the seventh inning. Rebecca Meredith followed with a walk and one of Rogers City's trademark rally innings seemed imminent.
Unfortunately, the next two hitters hit fly balls that were easily fielded by first baseman Carly VanderLugt and second baseman Rozeveld to seal the win for the Comets.
Rogers City is losing four seniors this year- Idalski, LaLonde, Rebecca Meredith and Brenna Hincka- and Grambau praised the quartet for their contributions to the program.
"Brenna played a bit of infield and outfield for us when we needed her and Nikkie (LaLonde) has been a four year starter in right field. Brooklyn has been an outstanding pitcher, center fielder and hitter for us and Rebecca has been a big hitter and a great source of enthusiasm and support year after year," Grambau said.
In spite of the loss, Idalski was positive.
"I couldn't have asked for more this season. Our goal for the last four years has been to make it to the Creek and to make it here in my last year, as a senior, is really special," she said.
Eric Benac can be reached via email at firstname.lastname@example.com or by phone at 358-5690. Follow Eric on Twitter @EricBenac.