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About this project
The Model
People don't like advertising almost as a general rule; Advertising is simply The Way It Is. People who make content learn to like it, because they want to make content, and they also want to eat food and sleep under a roof, and the opportunity to do both at the same time seems like a pretty good idea.
After the "dot com bubble," we ran the site entirely on donations for over a year. The word crowdfunding hadn't been invented yet; back then, people simply called it "begging," but I think it's clear that those days are long past. We look back on that period with incredible fondness, and I don't think we're the only ones. It was just two of us then, not the juggernaut that it is now; we have mouths to feed, as it were. I think we had assumed it wasn't possible to do it that way anymore - to operate a site at this scale without advertising dollars - but it occurred to us that we'd never actually asked. People often want to know how they can support the site in a way that doesn't involve t-shirts or looking at advertising, and I think we may have a way. What I'm saying is that we want to sell out, and we would love to sell out to you.
How Do You Intend To Do That
By doing this.
That's for the amount you see on the right. If it turns out to be something people want to see, or not see as the case may be, we'll add stretch goals to restore old services we used to offer, convert the entire site to a Creative Commons license, and ultimately remove every ad from the site for an entire year. We intend to be a company that succeeds by making things, specifically things for you, and are orienting ourselves toward that goal.
So, we're turning to you. Would scouring ads from Penny Arcade, with everything that entails, be something you'd be willing to reach into your pocket for? The more we considered it, the more we agreed it might just be. Not only would you no longer have to look at advertising when browsing Penny Arcade, but not having ads would create a chain reaction that would lead to a bunch of other interesting stuff. Without the almighty "pageview" to consider, why not populate the RSS with full comics and posts? Why not enable and even encourage apps, first and third party, for people to read it however they damn well please?
That seems pretty compelling to us, but in keeping with Kickstarter tradition we've greased the wheels with a buffet of backer rewards and stretch goals. This is an amazing experiment in our opinion. If it doesn't work Penny Arcade will be fine. We'll keep going just like before with no interruption in service and nothing will change. But if it did work, I mean, wow.
That would be something.
One of the things that excited us most about the idea of trying an ad-free model was the amount of time it would give us to actually make comics. Currently, we do all kinds of creative services projects that are part of the existing model, but in their absence, that's all time we can put to work for you. We have a ton of weird settings, and ideas for more, that are simply not possible with the schedule the current system imposes. What we're talking about would be new projects, in settings you already like, that run ALONGSIDE the week's comics, not in their place. Like, oh, I don't know... THIS?!?
We have quite a year planned, if you're game.
Update #2: $325k Stretchgoal
Additional Revelations!
We're just revealing things right and left around here. It would be our great pleasure to acquaint you with Automata: Silverside in lieu of our typical "creative services" work. The first of these projects unlocks at $325,000, and we're chomping at the bit. Or champing at it; I can never remember if you chomp or champ. In any case, there won't be anything left of this bit by the time we're done. We're going crazy on it!
Update #4: Penny Arcade Leaderboard Stretch Goal Unlocked! Stretchgoals up to $999k revealed.
It's unbelievable, but the campaign has reached our first funding goal of $250k in four days. We've been blown away by the support thus far, and the interest from people outside the industry makes us think we might be on to something here.
As promised, we are revealing the stretch goals up to $999k ... behold! (check out the updated list up top!) The new goals we've revealed are:
- Jerry Cosplay: Jerry has agreed to Cosplay as the character of the community's choice (by vote) for one day at both PAX East 2013 and PAX Prime 2013.
- Strip Search Web Show: Discussed in a flurry of tweets, Penny Arcade: The Series Season 4 will be our version of America's Next Top Webcomic titled... STRIP SEARCH. This incredibly ambitious and expensive production will bring together over 10 up and coming webcomic hopefuls for a week of grueling challenges and horrifying social experiments, hosted by Mike and Jerry. For what? A considerable cash prize and integration into the Penny Arcade offices for one year.
- Twisp & Catsby Children's Book (free online): Mike and Jerry will create and publish online (for free) a Twisp & Catsby Children's Book.
- Original Tabletop Adventure: Mike and Jerry will write a completely original tabletop adventure, not tied to any particular system, to be released for free.
- Free PA Comic Reader developed for iOS and Android
- PA Blanks/Creative Common License: We will release, with each Monday, Wednesday and Friday strip, a blank version of the comic (art without word balloons) for your editing and remixing enjoyment. In addition, we will open the ENTIRE PA archive to a Creative Common License under CC BY-NC-SA.
Update #5: Automata Project Unlocked, More Lookouts Info, Comic Sketch Reward and Additional Q&As!
We've just crossed the $325,000 mark, meaning the Automata strip for 2013 is LOCKED IN. As a teaser, Mike created this image to give you an idea of what's in in store:
Our next goal is to make Jerry cosplay as whatever you want him to, which for those in the office is VERY EXCITING. If that goal is met, we'll first open submissions via an online survey, and then select the top 5 choices by raw #s. From there, we'll have another online vote-off.
Looking down a bit further on the stretch goal list, Jerry also wrote this piece to go along with a new sketch by Mike for the Lookouts, Daughters of Eyrewood:
daughter, daughter,
killed her father
look at what her
blood has bought her
New Reward - Original Comic Pencil Sketch
This isn't a reward you'll find on the right side but is actually one that applies to ANYONE that contributes more than $2,500. You will receive in the mail, one of the original pencil sketches from the Penny Arcade archives (and for those donating $5k, you'll receive two, and so on).
These sketches are what are scanned in and digitally inked, so each online strip has ONE pencil sketch associated with it. These are the ORIGINALS. (please note, the strip you receive will be at random) Since Mike no longer does the pencil sketches ahead of time, this part in the process no longer exists making these extra rare.
We've also updated the FAQ with some additional questions. Please check them out below!
Update #6: $350k reached, new rewards added!
We crossed the $350,000 mark over the weekend, so it looks like this thing has some legs. After listening to a ton of feedback, we have a few more rewards that may interest you!
Precipice Promotional 1 GB Flash Drives - $250 (30 available)
When we made Precipice of Darkness, Episode 1, we had manufactured 50 USB Credit Card drives (seen here) for media kits, etc. With this reward level you'll receive this Flash Drive in the mail filled with the digital versions of Books 1 and 2 and the remastered Jerry tracks! We have two versions of the drive (Gabe and Tycho) – which you receive will be picked at random. Add $10 for International addresses.
1 lb of Jerry's Coffee Roast - $300 (10 available)
Jerry will ship to you a one pound bag of his signature coffee beans that he roasts himself. Add $10 for International addresses.
Logo Design by PA Design - $1500 (10 available)
Give Kiko and Erika the name of your company and a synopsis of what exactly it is you do, and delivered to you will be the one-colour AI/PDF/PSD files for your further manipulation. This is the team that designed the PAX Logo, the Trenches Logo, the Child's Play logo, etc.
Brew with Jerry - $2500 (4 available)
It's no secret Jerry loves brewing, and this reward gives you the opportunity to brew with Jerry in Seattle. You only need to handle your transportation, and Jerry will take care of the rest. Must be 21 or older.
Ping Pong. Your Team vs. Team Inferno - $5000 (1 available)
Invite you and up to 9 of your friends for an officially sanctioned match against Team Inferno in Seattle, WA. The most expensive pizza you have ever purchased will be included. You just need to handle transportation.
PA will crash your birthday party - $5000 (1 available)
Mike and Jerry and possibly some other people will crash your party and totally eat all of your food and drink everything in your fridge. Must be in the Seattle area.
Khoo will plan your bachelor party - $7500 (1 available)
This is for planning and day-of execution only. Robert Khoo will take whatever your pre-determined budget is and plan a… uh… experience for you and your friends. A more detailed description to this reward would be against the code. See PA:TS S02E28 for reference.
Mike and Jerry DM - $8000 (1 available)
Mike and Jerry will be your DM for you and 3 of your friends, running an adventure just for you. You just need to handle transportation to Seattle.
We've also been getting some really interesting ideas for stretchgoals from readers – if you want to suggest some before we announce our next set of them, send an email to firstname.lastname@example.com. Thanks!
Update #8: The Final Cosplay Vote + More details on Strip Search
(Note: Skipped #7 since it was just the initial cosplay vote)
We've crossed the $375k mark, meaning Jerry is on the hook for cosplaying as the character of your choice. We did open submissions in Update #7, and after over 15,000 suggestions, here are the top 5 to vote on:
1. Bayonetta
2. Sailor Moon
3. The Fruit Fucker
4. Tycho
5. Yummy Chan
Honorable mentions go to Strawberry Shortcake and Lollipop Chainsaw. ;)
Alright, vote here!
Gabe also just posted an update on Penny Arcade about Strip Search, but you can read it here as well:
I admit to being a huge fan of reality tv style game shows. I love shows like So You Think You Can Dance, Hell's Kitchen, and Master Chef. I even watch shows like Ink Master and Shear Genius. It doesn't matter if it's singers, chefs, fashion designers or gardeners. I love watching groups of people pushed together to compete at something they are good at. I don't know a thing about cooking or dancing but I can't get enough of these game shows. I'm always amazed when the challenge is something like "make a fruit tart" and one guy says "shit I've never made a fruit tart before" and then he proceeds to make a fucking fruit tart. I could never do that and maybe that's why I love watching it so much. Could you pull a theme out of a hat and then write and draw a comic strip about it? Probably not, but I'm guessing you might like to watch people who can.
That's the idea for our new show Strip Search. It is the next goal in our Kickstarter and It is a reality game show for web cartoonists. Like any of these other shows I mentioned it is about watching incredibly talented people face off in a competition with a reward that could change their life.
In the case of Strip Search we are talking about ten people. Each one of them a talented cartoonist. They will all live together in a house here in Seattle. They will compete in a series of challenges that will test their skills and we will slowly whittle them down until we are left with one winner. This cartoonist will win a cash prize along with integration into the Penny Arcade machine. That means a studio in our office but it also means access to our business people, our merchandising operation, our designers, and our ping pong table. The winner will get plugged into the Penny Arcade family for one year. We will not own any of their work, and there will be no evil contract to sign. We will just be there to support them and help grow their comic in a way that very few other organizations could.
Tycho and I will be the hosts and participate in the judging but we won't be alone. We are very lucky to have friends in every corner of the industry from syndicated newspaper comics to book publishers, and web comic pioneers. We'll be bringing these folks in as guest judges and mentors throughout the competition. You'll also see everyone here in the office working with these contestants. It's a huge undertaking for us but incredibly exciting I think.
There is something magical about watching a comic strip come together. I think Strip Search is a show that could appeal to a much bigger audience than anything we've done before on PATV. So if you could help us get the word out I'd appreciate it. Tell your friends who like reality TV and tell them to tell their friends. I'd love to see Strip Search get funded and if it does we are very close to the goal of all ads removed from the home page and our Daughters of the Eyrewood Lookouts comic.
Update #9: More Lookouts Art, a New Reward, FAQ Update, Jerry Cosplay
With 15 days left, we've raised almost $400,000, which is nearly a half-a-million dollars, which is basically a million! Right? Or...? Listen. We don't have time to thrill you with our incredible mathematics right now. It's time to reveal the terrifying revelations of Kickstarter Update 9!
More Lookouts!
Gabe drew more concept art for Daughters of the Eyrewood to further entice you:
I know this level seems out there, but we still have 15 days! We are also adding another reward level at $50 for a hi-resolution, 8.5" x 11" print of the above Lookouts image sent to your door. Please add $5 for international addresses. (this level also includes all previous rewards!)
Jerry Cosplay Poll Results!
I'll be honest, I'm actually a little shocked at the result. The winner is... the Fruit Fucker? I just feel like... that doesn't have a lot of shame-factor to it. This was an opportunity to really get some ridiculous photos of Jerry, and the community chose the Fruit Fucker? All right, we'll try to do something with it that will maximize embarrassment.
Oh! And I forgot to mention in the last update with honorable mentions that we also got a lot of Dr. Bunsen Honeydew suggestions, which would have also been really funny.
Update #10: Kickstarter Shirt Revealed!
We're less than $40k away from hitting our Strip Search stretchgoal, and we figured you would want to see the Exclusive Kickstarter T-Shirt commemorating the campaign!
This is at the $150 reward level and also includes The Dickstarter Print, Digital Versions of Books 1 and 2, Remastered Digital Singles of Jerry's PA musical works, an 8.5" x 11" print of the Lookouts image from Update #9, a copy of Rainslick 3, names for your band AND your pet by Jerry, thoughts of you during coitus from Mike, and of course, the glue that holds this whole campaign together, Mike chasing a duck around while he shouts your name.
Update #11: Strip Search UNLOCKED! Call for entries begins NOW.
We've just hit the $450k/Strip Search stretchgoal! We move fast, so it's time to get the process rolling. May I present to you, the initial call for entries.
As mentioned in previous updates, the winner will get office space (for free!) at Penny Arcade HQ in Seattle, WA AND access to all of our facilities and resources (Mike, Jerry, Biz Guys, Merch Guys, etc) for one year on top of a $15,000 cash prize.
The deadline to submit is midnight, 8/24/2012 (TWO WEEKS FROM NOW). What you're applying for is to be on our new reality show, Strip Search, later this year. The process to get to our final participants will be incredibly thorough, so please know this is only the first of many steps.
Some quick notes on the show:
There will be no cost to you, other than your time.
You will be asked to sign a video release.
You will be asked to sign an NDA.
You will NOT be asked to sign anything regarding the rights to your existing or future works.
You need to be 18 or older and legally be able to enter the United States.
You will need to take about two weeks of your life later this year for this and this alone.
If there are any other questions, please ask them below, and I'll get them answered. Thanks, and good luck!
If we don't hit our goal, we can explore other Kickstarter projects individually if we determine there's interest. For now, this is our focus.
Absolutely, and it's all in the stretchgoals - we'll add more as we hear feedback from folks, but a good example of this is the return of the enthusiastically received "Downloadable Content" podcast.
The leaderboard is the long, flat ad at the top of the page. Reaching $250k removes the leaderboard on the homepage. $525k gets rid of both ads on the homepage. Reaching $999,999 gets the ads removed on the rest of the PA pages, including the comic page.
Things stay how they are now. That's fine.
We've committed to a pretty shocking reconfiguration of our company, and we're going to need all hands on deck to do so. Their Pledge system streamlines this process considerably. It's also incredibly transparent, with a bright green bar that goes up in real time so you can see what is happening.
We're going to shift them from "sell ad space" jobs to "make things" jobs. That's the company we intend to be. They were nervous at first, but now they can't stop thinking about what's next. It's all human bandwidth we can put toward the next surprise.
Advertising paid for rent, wages, health insurance, utilities, all the normal stuff that you pay for when you have fourteen souls working together. That money keeps the lights on while we do the things people expect from us: thrice weekly content drops, two annual shows, the scholarships, Child's Play, etc.
Is this going to burn any bridges/cause any problems with the companies that advertise on your site?
Possibly. We will send out nice cards come Christmas time.
For the things we can fulfill immediately, everything should be squared away by the end of the year. For the stretch goal projects, we'll try to sprinkle them through the year so that there's always something to look forward to.
Aren't these stretch goals extra work that is going unpaid? Isn't that sort of taking away from the value of the money raised?
That's how we're earning the money! We'd be working directly for you when we make more Penny Arcade. We think this is a better system, and we hope you agree.
This is for a period of 1 year. From January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2013. We will run the fundraiser again, around this time next year.
Anything beyond the final stretch goal we'll credit toward next year's fundraiser.
It will remove ads (based on the levels we reach) from the mainsite as described above. Depending on feedback, PAR and Trenches are a possibility for stretch goals. The only two things that we can't remove ads from are the PAX site and PATV. We have partners for those, and those arrangements are still on an old model.
They can be found here at www.penny-arcade.com/kickstarter/
It doesn't.
We asked the same thing, and it turns out that funding comics on Kickstarter has a lot of precedent. We just happen to have been making them for 14 years already, so we're just coming at it from the opposite side.
There is a good argument for that.
Summarizing - They are transferable, but you must be the one that picks them up at the show, each show. They are not good for PAX Prime 2012. The five-year period begins on January 1, 2013. No, you would not be eligible for the Omegathon.
For men, Small to 4XL. For women, Small to 2XL.
We wish this was a little easier, but it's a 3-step process (short of creating a new account for each reward, which I guess you COULD do).
1. Add up the rewards you are purchasing. When selecting your contribution amount, use the fill-in blank to enter this amount. Don't forget international shipping costs (they stack) if you live outside the U.S.
2. If the kickstarter campaign is successful, we'll be sending out a Kickstarter survey that asks what rewards you purchased.
3. And just in case, for our records, send us an email with the subject line "Multiple Rewards" and the rewards you've selected in the body to email@example.com.
Unless the description of the reward says "all previous rewards," it is a standalone reward.
It will in all likelihood be a mallard.
Yes, we saw it when we filmed it. No worries - it was a temp PW and was changed long ago. But thanks for looking out for us!
It will actually be very similar to the early stages of our own hiring process. We'll have an application to fill out, ask for a portfolio submission and conduct video and phone interviews.
Will the automata / lookouts / other stretch goal rewards be only for supporters or will they be for everyone?
They will be for everyone and available online!
Nope, it's for BOTH PC and Mac. Since we're using Steam Play, you can download the PC or Mac version with the Steam code we'll provide. The PC version will be available immediately and the Mac version should be coming out later this year. And yes, the copy of the game will be giftable.
Your business guys are idiots. Your advertising is great. Why not do advertising AND kickstart these projects. You could make way more money. Break these projects out into separate kickstarter projects!
It's not about money, but time. We're incredibly proud of how much integrity our ad model has, but it takes time for that model to work. We play each and every game that gets pitched to us. We're perfectly fine doing this, but the tradeoff is less stuff like Lookouts and Automata.
We also accept Paypal on the side (http://mailto:firstname.lastname@example.com is our Paypal address). Make sure to send an email to http://mailto:email@example.com with the transaction ID and what reward you'd like.
We had not considered this! But after thinking about it, we decided that yes, it will be ad-free.
Support this project
Funding period
- (36 days)


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Elk Viewing in Sunriver
Like most places, a sure sign of spring in Central Oregon and Sunriver is the abundance of wildflife that emerges from the long, cold winter. This week, a herd of elk have been hanging around the Sunriver meadow next to the stables and airport. This particular herd is not as skittish as most, so visitors have a rare opportunity to view these magnificent animals at relatively close, but safe, range.
Short video of these elk waking in the Sunriver meadow this morning is below:
This is beautiful! Just the way I remember Sunriver!

subset: commoncrawl


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During your stay, why not take advantage of golf tuition with a Golf Professional. Their experience and knowledge will help the first time golfer to enjoy their introduction to the game or perfect the technique of the experienced golfer.
Advanced players may also play 9 holes with the Golf Professional.
To take advantage of our special conditions, you should find yourself staying at the hotel.


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State comes through with marina funds
Phase one of a major renovation of the Presque Isle Marina is getting a big boost from state funding sources.
The Marquette City Commission this week approved an agreement with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources in which $169,358 of state funds will be used for dredging the marina this summer.
In addition, the Michigan Waterways Commission earlier committed to pay 50 percent of phase one, which has a price tag of about $477,000. Besides the dredging, this phase includes demolition of the south pier of the marina, which has become obsolete.
The city will be responsible for the pier demolition, which is pegged at about $70,000.
Work is expected to begin soon on the project, which is long overdue at the marina that has served recreational and fishing boaters well over the 40-plus years since it was built.
Besides piers that are rusting and lacking proper foundations, the launch ramp has outlived its life-span and will be replaced in the second phase of the renovation project, which the city hopes to get funding to complete next year.
Future phases will include replacing the other two piers, bolstering up the marina breakwater, improvements to buildings and the parking lot and landscaping.
City officials lauded the state for kicking in the extra funds for dredging. Also recognized for their efforts on behalf of the city receiving the funds were state Rep. John Kivela, D-Marquette, and state Sen. Tom Casperson, R-Escanaba.
The city has shown a strong commitment to carrying out all the phases of the project and restore the 97-slip marina that serves the Upper Harbor to a fully functional, modern facility.
Hopefully, the state will continue to back the multi-million dollar project in future years, as will our politicians in Lansing.
Being situated on the shores of Lake Superior, it's important for a city such as Marquette to have top-quality facilities providing recreational access to the lake for residents as well as visitors to the area.


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Office of Student Financial Aid
We believe students from all economic backgrounds should have the opportunity to attend the University of Washington Tacoma. Finances should not be a barrier to getting a world-class education. Each year the University of Washington Tacoma awards financial aid to more than 70% of our students. We have a wide array of federal, state and institutional financial aid programs to help students at all economic levels pay for their education.
Funding a college education takes careful planning and often requires tapping a variety of financial resources. We're here to help you determine whether you qualify for aid, assist you in applying for aid and, finally, make sure you receive it.
To be considered for any type of financial aid, including scholarships, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online. The FAFSA can be completed at any time, but for priority consideration you should make sure you submit it by January 15. We recommend that you submit your FAFSA no later than January 1 to ensure processing by the deadline. If you complete the FAFSA after this date, we will still try to meet your financial needs, but first priority goes to those who complete it by January 15.
- Aid disbursement information
- Summer quarter financial aid
- Jump Start to Success: Financial Aid Drop-In Advising for Incoming Freshmen
- Financial aid FAQ
- Net Price Calculator
- The Husky Promise
- Tuition rates
- Release of financial information
- Student tax information
- UW Office of Student Financial Aid
- Important Message for Guaranteed Education Tuition (GET) Customers
- Real Hope Act
Review details about the Real Hope Act, extending State Need Grant eligibility to some undocumented residents. If you are eligible, complete the WASFA application by January 15 to be considered on-time for State Need Grant.


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Crown Royale Hand Towels - 6 pk.
Item #: 743544 | Model #: 5790T2W100 |
We're sorry, this item is not available in your selected Club. Check another Club
About this itemThese 100% ring spun cotton hand towels offer durable commercial quality.
These commercial quality towels are absorbent and durable to withstand repeated washings. Each 100% cotton hand towel measures 16" x 30" and features decorative dobby borders and finished ends and side hems.
Assembled Country
Assembled Size
Dimensions: 16" x 30"
Component Country


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Topic: How to modularize CSS menus
Here's a question to be sure: how do I modularize CSS menus? In other words, I want to define a menu (e.g., orange Horizontal Menu) once, and then call/invoke it from any number of pages. Is this possible, or must I duplicate the HTML code in every page? Seems to me that last method would be inefficient, since a change to the menu would require a change to each and every page.


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Soccer has been a very important part of my life, which helped to form the person I am today. As long as I can remember I have been playing soccer, waking up early on the weekends, and playing in the rain, snow, sun, heat, and cold. Playing soccer has taught me what it means to win and lose. It has allowed me to meet the kids who are now some of my best friends. All the coaches that I have had over the years have instilled their values in me. Playing for Rush ever since the club came to Idaho gave me and the team opportunities that would not have been possible without Rush's name in the world of soccer.
My first couple years in club ball there were a lot of politics going on, among coaches and parents. I still do not fully understand why the things happened the way they did, but I didn't care because I just wanted to play soccer with my friends, and was able to despite all the events occurring. When I played for FC Boise, for the two years before Rush came to Idaho, I became good friends with all of the kids on the team. Then Rush came and we were all able to stay together and continue playing with each other. Some of my best friends are from playing soccer for Idaho Rush. Having a different coach every year gave me the ability to acquire the positive values from multiple different role models. I always did what my coach asked me to do, whether it required me to play goalie, to improve my first touch, or to create space on the soccer field. The friends and coaches that I have met while playing soccer have impacted my life.
The lessons I have learned from playing soccer don't come just from the result of the game, but from the entire game. I've learned over the years that the result of a soccer game does not usually show the better team. Instead of asking who won or what the score was, I prefer to ask how did you play. I have been part of every kind of game result from winning and losing by six, to penalty shootouts. In losses I have been told to remember what it feels like to lose so that you never have to experience it again. In wins I have been told to enjoy the win, but remember there is another game tomorrow. Winning and losing have given me experiences that I can use for the rest of my life.
Soccer has taught me lessons and given me experiences that I have and will use in life and have passed onto the younger kids on my high school team. Playing for Rush has been a great experience and I will always have the memories from practices, to the 16-hour bus rides. I would also like to thank my parents for supporting me and helping me to continue to play soccer. Without my parents, all the people who managed the team, and all the time the coaches put into coaching I would not be where I am today.


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— Shepherd Hoodwin, in response to Krista's recent interview with Richard Mouw in "Restoring Political Civility."
Share Your Reflection

Yet another post from staff here attacking conservative
Yet another post from staff here attacking conservative Christianity, and showing deep ignorance of it. Is this a conscious plan to post uninformed, negative comments about conservative spirituality and positive ones about liberal spirituality, or is it something the staff is willfully overlooking?
Where does Mr. Hoodwin get his idea about the spirit of the Word? It seems from the wording as though he gets it from scripture, or rather a particular interpretation of scripture. Others read the same scripture differently. While that may illustrate his complaint about scripture, that it can support any opinion, it hardly gives him a good basis for criticizing those who read it differently than he does.
He's essentially calling for people to dump what scripture says, except for the point he wants to draw from it, and "go directly to what is right." But that's what those who rely on scripture believe they're doing. They believe scripture to be God's direct word to them about what is right. And so it seems Hoodwin does as well, at least on the point he likes.
What would it entail to go directly to what is right apart from relying on scripture? It would seem to involve some direct revelation or intuition of the Good, which I can assure Hoodwin can be used just as effectively to support any opinion.
Mouw believes his views are entailed by unconditional love. Until Being (the show) can figure this out, and start to uncover and dismantle its deep and overpowering bias, no discussion about this will go very far, and the show will not be living up to its pretensions about exploring "Being." It will rather continue to promote a partisan, partial, and polarizing view.

The comment provides nothing meaningful, nor helpful to
The comment provides nothing meaningful, nor helpful to the subject at hand. He asks the question "Why bother?" presumably to suggest that the use of Scripture to defend a position is irrelevant because it can be used to support any opinion (a claim that is suspect, but we will grant it for argument's sake). He then asks, "Why not just go directly to what is right?" which seems to suggest that either what is right is so plainly obvious that it does not need Scriptural basis, or that what is right is the "Spirit of the Word" which is somehow above the use of Scripture in articulating an opinion. If the former, then we have solved nothing because just going directly to what is right is the problem that is searched after in the first place, namely, what is right (that is to say, no one has the same "plainly obvious")? If the later, then how does one know what the "Spirit of the Word" is unless one uses that "Word" to articulate an opinion about what it's spirit is? There doesn't seem anything meaningful here.
Further, it seems that Hoodwin wants to suggest that the nature of unconditional love is what is most important and not the "letter of the law." Unfortunately this is still of no help because we still have yet to define what "unconditional love" is, and by what authority ought we to make that definition. Is it just what I think it means? Is it what Scripture says it is (and we are back to articulating an opinion based on scripture here)?
So while the comment sounds meaningful and possibly even helpful, it appears it is neither.

Partly it comes down to the show's editorial stance, a
Partly it comes down to the show's editorial stance, a reflection of popular culture, that love trumps all other values. Of course, as was pointed out by Krista in her unedited version with Dr. Mouw, many words now no longer carry the freight they used to carry across borders. Love would be one of these words. Krista means one thing by it, Dr. Mouw -- probably -- means another.


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iHerb Customer Reviews
Savings of: £3.42 (30% off)
NEW FORMULA totally DISAPPOINTED!
Posted by 5075751680045464238 on Nov 05, 2013
After contacting the manufacturer of this "USED TO BE MOST WONDERFUL" product, I was very disappointed to hear that the formula has been changed. Below, is the response I rec'd. I will add that the company was very quick to respond to my inquiry, and were very up front about the situation, which I very much appreciated. Our stevia extract changed in May 2013. We simply had no choice but to change our extract. The extract that we had been using is no longer available. The matter was out of our hands.
This used to be the best stevia I could find...
Posted by Reviewer3174508 on Oct 28, 2013
They have changed the formula, and unfortunately what used to be the greatest stevia is now pretty awful. I had to return 12 bottles, it is just so bitter and weak compared to the old formula. I wish they would change it back to the previous formula.
Posted by 5743768077958252157 on Jun 19, 2013
The stevia that I ordered this time was bitter. The others I ordered were sweet.. I hope it was just a bad batch.My sister gave me one from her batch and it was sweet. I will try to order again soon a dn hopefully it will be better. This is the first time that I have gotten a bitter tasting stevia from yall.. Sorry complain ,but thought you should check into it..
bad product
Posted by Reviewer3089251 on Jul 09, 2013
the formula has changed and you never let the consumer know!!!!!! the new taste is nothing like it was. i returned for a refund never received it
Posted by 4929485095324053939 on Oct 29, 2013
never get the product
Alcohol free stevia
Posted by Reviewer2717579 on Jun 13, 2011
I was not please with the container. the rubber part on top leaks constantly. I have to use more than the other I normally order that contains alcohol. I will not purchase again, going back to my original product purchase
Bad after taste
Posted by 4739810189144943270 on Apr 29, 2015
Didn't like the bad after taste of this product..
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45th Presidential Inauguration photo gallery
Distinguished alumnus returns to speak at MSU
Minot State University alumnus John Greenslit will visit Minot State University Jan. 22 as part of the Distinguished Alumni Series. His career journey has encompassed the areas of education, government service, business management, marketing and consulting, and sales, according to a press release issued by the university.
"I hope to share with students the need to master communication skills, accept adversity, develop support networks, seek mentors and maintain ethics, integrity and humility," Greenslit said in a press release. "I also want to encourage them to never forget the background and support that provided their career-mobility opportunities, while recognizing family values."
Greenslit will meet with students in fitness and physical education classes and tour MSU's campus and its new Student Wellness Center. Within the community, he will present to the Kiwanis club, and meet with Ron Merritt, Minot Park District director.
After enjoying several career avenues, Greenslit was recruited in November 2010 to direct the Eaton County Parks Department, located in Grand Ledge, Mich. He manages nine county parks and over 306 acres at a combination of sites, trails and recreation facilities.
The Morton, Minn., native began his career at Minot State College, following his 1960 graduation; he substituted for a faculty member on sabbatical. During 1960-61, he was head tennis coach, assistant football coach and Minot Model High wrestling coach. He also started an intramural program and operated as the sports information office.
Greenslit taught middle school science and coached track and cross country and wrestling in St. James, Minn., from 1961 to 1963. While at St. James, he completed master's degree coursework at Mankato State University and was named a National Science Foundation Scholar in geology and astronomy, studying at Carleton College.
The alumnus returned to his alma mater during 1964-66 as a health and physical education teacher, intramural director and assistant football coach. He also provided sports information to media and assisted with alumni relations. In 1966, Gov. William Guy appointed Greenslit to his cabinet as the director and state liaison officer for the North Dakota Outdoor Recreation Agency.
Greenslit received a master's degree in health, physical education and recreation administration from Central Michigan University in 1976, after moving to Michigan in 1972.
"My work experiences all reflect my training as an educator at MSC, with a great diversity in career change, as challenges were presented. I seldom applied for a position, but frequently was recruited to initiate, change or replace various administrators," Greenslit said.


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Lesson Plan
Street Magic Discussion Guide
- Grades: 6–8
About this book
A Discussion Guide to
The Circle Opens Quartet
Book 1: Magic Steps
Book 2: Street Magic
Book 3: Cold Fire
Book 4: Shatterglass
by Tamora Pierce
About the Books
Continuing the spellbinding adventures begun in the Circle of Magic Quartet, the four books in The Circle Opens reunite readers with the four young mages who discover themselves, harness the power of their inborn magics, and find "family" under the tutelage and care of beloved teachers in Discipline Cottage at Winding Circle Temple. Now, four years later, these foster siblings, Sandry, a nobly born thread mage, Briar, plant mage and former "street rat", Daja, a Trader Smith mage, and Tris, a merchant weather mage, embark upon separate journeys, during which each is called upon to unravel mysteries involving magic, murder and madness, while simultaneously taking responsibility for teaching untrained mages in whom they have discovered magic, and doing for them what their teachers did for each of them. Struggles to teach with affection, as well as purpose, meshed with those to do battle and overcome evils of different kinds, stretch boundaries of magic and person and achieve resolution through the stronger, combined powers of teacher and student.
Magic Steps (Book 1)
Lady Sandrilene fa Toren finds more than she's bargained for when a horse ride with her great-uncle, Duke Vedris IV, Ruler of Emelan, leads her to a young boy with rare "dance" magic, and brings news of the first of a series of grisly and vengeful murders in the unscrupulous merchant Rokat House. Obligated to become mentor to a resistant Pasco, the son of a burly harrier family who see no practical value in Pasco's dancing, Sandry enlists her own teacher, Lark, and one of the most famous dancers in the Pebbled Sea, to assist her. When it is discovered that the murderers at Rokat House employ an "unmagic" that cloaks them in the invisibility of "nothingness" undetectable by powerful guarding spells, it becomes clear that Sandry and her free-spirited protegé must combine their unique talents to stop the killings. Using traces of collected unmagic, Sandry weaves a net that will draw the killers in when spelled with Pasco's dance magic. But, when Pasco is held hostage by the killers, as they struggle for freedom and life, Sandry must work swiftly, with strength and confidence, to save her student from being devoured by the hate and the nothingness enveloping him.
Street Magic (Book 2)
Stopping in Chammur on his way to distant Yanjing with his teacher, Rosethorn, Briar Moss discerns a powerful stone magic in an unknowing street urchin at a local market. Efforts to have Evvy begin training with a local stone mage are lost when Evvy refuses instruction from the arrogant, "pampered lapdog", Jebilu Stoneslicer. Despite misgivings about his teaching abilities, Briar is moved by the ragged girl, and his memories of his own "street rat" days, and when Evvy is pulled into a local gang war, fueled and manipulated by Lady Zenadia doa Attaneh, a wealthy, cold, and dangerous noblewoman seeking to exploit her talents, Briar becomes both teacher and guardian. Swept up in gang warfare, Briar draws on his protective instincts, his own gang member background, his bond with plant life, and Evvy's stone magic to rescue his student from the lair of the villainous Lady and reveal her sinister game and the secrets that lie beneath her garden.
Cold Fire (Book 3)
Wintering in the northern Namorn city of Kugisko with her mentor, Frostpine, Daja Kisubo discovers that the twin daughters of her hosts have "ambient" magic and is obliged to instruct the girls in the art of meditation while they learn the rudiments of their magics in apprenticeships. When mysterious fires begin to blaze across this frigid wooden city, Daja meets Bennat Ladradun, a firefighter with a tragic past, and lends her ability to control fire to help in rescue missions. Impressed by his courage and firefighting crusade, and drawn by his understanding of the nature and moods of living fire, Daja crafts a pair of "living metal" fireproof gloves for her new friend and kindred spirit. Guided by Frostpine, Daja struggles to find creative ways to meet the needs of her two very different learners and works with Ladradun to locate a ruthless serial arsonist whose conflagrations besiege the town and threaten the life of one of her young charges. As the investigation deepens and suspicions smolder, Daja is forced to confront another side of her heroic friend and, with magical and loving support of her dear mentor, must face the unthinkable.
Shatterglass (Book 4)
Accompanying her teacher, Niko, to Heskalifos University in the city of Tharios, Tris Chandler learns quickly of the city's rigid class system whose lowest rung is considered untouchable, and happens upon Kethlun Warder, a glassmaker whose unrecognized power mingles both glass and lightning magic as the result of a freak accident. Tris is charged with teaching this broken man to control his magic as well as his temper, but there's much more at stake. A serial killer, known as "the Ghost", has been strangling yaskedasi women from Khapik, members of Tharios' low class of licensed entertainers, and leaving them in public places to "pollute" a city whose history of survival is based on purity. Thwarted by the city's obsession for cleansing, and its moral indifference to these murders, Demokos Nomasdina, an arurim law enforcement mage, risks his soul and First Class status in his own obsession to capture the killer. When lightning-sparked glass globes, blown by Keth, reveal images of murdered girls, and deepening relationships with yaskedasi women bring them closer to those targeted and left to grieve, Dema, Keth and Tris join hands, hearts and powers to track the killer down, even at their own peril.
Tamora Pierce has created a refreshingly multiracial world rich in the language, characteristics and customs of different cultural and linguistic groups. Using the detailed maps provided on the endpapers of each book, discuss the geography, the secondary world of The Circle Opens. List the names of each city to which each of our young heroes travels and, based on information provided in text, plot their relative location to each other. Identify each cultural group and the primary language spoken by each, emphasizing key "foreign language" vocabulary. Highlight cultural, religious or social beliefs/customs/traditions, particular to each, that serve to define identity.
Despite the medallions they wear, Sandry, Briar, Daja, and Tris are relatively young and inexperienced, perceiving themselves as students, reluctant and unsure about their abilities to teach those placed in their charge. What makes a good "teacher"? Inspiration? Technique? Personality? Subject mastery? What makes a good "student"? Attentiveness? Imagination? Discipline? Is it possible for the teacher/student relationship to evolve? Is it possible to be both "teacher" and "student"? What do teachers and students owe each other?
Understanding Genre
In each of the four stories in The Circle Opens, readers are presented with fantasy elements that run counter to the natural and physical laws of our known world while, at the same time, illuminating concerns of the real world by clarifying the human condition and capturing the essence of our deepest emotions, dreams, hopes and fears. In employing fantasy elements, how has the author achieved an internal consistency requisite to maintaining credibility in all aspects of story? In what ways do these fantasy stories move beyond the whimsical to serve as a metaphors through which readers may discover aspects of themselves and cast light on the realities of life?
Each of the lands visited by our four young heroes is integral to strong characterization and plot development in this fantasy quartet. Set in a period like our Middle Ages, geographic and cultural aspects of our real world blend to frame the adventures which unfold in this secondary world. Using maps and historical references, study how the marketplaces, rooftop roads and shaded stone palaces of Chammur are suggestive of a Turkish outpost along an ancient spice route; how Kusisko's winding streets, carved wooden homes and frozen canals evoke 18 th century Russia. How do such depictions of settings serve to move the reader beyond their own place and time? How do they lend credibility to the characters we meet and the journeys they make?
Despite their magical abilities, The Circle Opens is replete with dynamic characters with whom young readers can identify. How are each of the main characters fully realized in the course of their adventures? Identify passages that attest to how they develop, grow and change within their own fantastic worlds without compromising believability and distancing themselves from the reader? Point to specific moments in which individual personalities and backgrounds (noble Sandry, street-smart Briar, stocky, strong Trader, Daja and hot-tempered Tris) serve to further and direct the course of their adventures?
The intertwined plotlines in The Circle Opens move forward in chronological fashion, revealing both internal and external conflicts faced by different characters and the means by which resolution is achieved. Chart the rising action in plot structure in each of these stories, noting: inciting incidents at each story's beginning, action/incidents that build conflict, the story's climax and denouement. How do magic and reality combine to play important roles in the conclusions of each of these adventures? Does each story end, as most readers might wish, with conflicts resolved in the "happily ever after" style typical of much folk literature? Suggest that readers rewrite the end of their favorite story to see how different individuals might shape the closing pages differently.
Given its strong mythological base, the ancient theme of good versus evil is a pervasive one in modern fantasy. Identify the characters in each story perceived to be "good" and "evil", supporting your opinions with specific textual references. Is "evil" always a clear-cut, static entity easily distinguished from its counterpart "good"? Discuss the differences in the motivations and "evil" manifested by the bored Lady Zenadia doa Attaneh; the ruthless Alzena and Nuhar; the mad Bennat Ladradun; and a nameless prathmun . How do such differences and motivations demonstrate that "evil" may not always be a simple matter of "black and white". Do readers agree with Daja's assertion that "Only an evil person would harm others to get at someone else". (p. 257)
It is said that, somewhere inside of us, we all possess a dark side that often remains hidden and dormant. When Tris teeters on the brink of taking the life of the Ghost murderer; when Briar envelops a mute in the fatal squeeze of branches, we see that dark side emerge in beloved characters. Identify other moments throughout these stories in which glimpses of this dark side in "good" characters are revealed. Are there circumstances in which acts of "evil" may be rationalized? What relevance do these perceptions of "good" and "evil" have for our world of today?
Each of the tales in The Circle Opens is enriched by and derives both depth and individual expression through the author's choice of language and stylistic devices.
Sensory writing: Whether its the vivid physical portrayal of people from different regions and tribes, or a Namornese city with an obsession for color, or the fragrances of woods, herbs and spices, or the taste of steamed quinces with walnut and honey, or the aches of a body stretched in dance, or the sounds of music in Khapik, Tamora Pierce invites readers to see, hear, feel, touch and taste as though they were transported into the pages of her books. Select such passages and discuss how each provides readers with a proximity to setting, character, or story through carefully detailed sensory description. Choose a description found to be particularly striking and paint a response picture, representational or abstract, conveying images evoked and sensations created for them.
Simile: A metaphoric expression using "like" or "as" , in which a word or phrase ordinarily used for one thing is applied to another, a simile employs vivid language to clarify or enhance an image in the reader's mind. Discuss the structure and impact of the following similes:
"As silent as a shark streaking toward prey, Alzena Dihanur ran across the cobblestones." (Book 1, page 101)
"I'm weak as an overcooked noodle." (Book 1, page 164)
"Nevertheless, she sent out magic like a calming bath..." (Book 2, page25)
"...the lines staggered across the page like drunken men ." (Book, 3, page76)
"Everyone knows a prathmun lies as easily as he breathes." (Book IV, p. 30)
"…said Poppy, her voice as tart as vinegar." (Book 4, page 54)
Search the books for other figurative descriptions of this kind. Share and discuss some of your favorites. Create your own similes in different descriptive writing tasks.
Plot Suspense
Authors may use various techniques for creating suspense and building tension in plot. In both Magic Steps (Book 2) and Cold Fire (Book 3), Tamora Pierce grants her readers foreknowledge, revealing the identity of the villains sought out by Sandry and Daja to them long before she enlightens her own characters. Whereas, in Street Magic (Book 2) and Shatterglass (Book 4), she employs foreshadowing to give readers clues and hints to anticipate later events, but withholds confirmation from both reader and character until story's revelatory conclusion. Ask readers to search for instances of foreshadowing in each of these books. What effects do foreknowledge and foreshadowing techniques have on readers and their interaction with story? If a culprit's identity is revealed early on, is suspense and tension significantly diminished/increased? In what ways may tension be built and maintained for readers who know more about coming events than their book heroes?
- Trader language, Namornese, Imperial, street slang, and the educated register of nobles and mages are integral aspects of dialog in The Circle Opens fantasies. How does the inclusion of these different languages and dialects lend depth to individual characters, and places, and breadth to social contexts? What effect do these language variations have on the quartet as a whole?
- At some point during their travels, Sandy, Briar, Daja and Tris express their wish to go "home" to Discipline Cottage, their foster mother, Lark, and their foster siblings. What events prompt these feelings of "homesickness" in each of them? What does each seek in the comfort of "home". Recall an occasion on which you may have felt homesick. What provoked it and how was it resolved?
- Wolf Moon, Rose Moon, Snow Moon...the monthly calendar of the full moon in Kugisko follows the chronology of seasons and celebrations in this northern setting. How do the distinctive names of these recurring moons reflect the climate and culture of this place and time? Using the Farmer's Almanac, compare/contrast the Namornese moon calendar with that of Native Americans. Create a personal moon calendar, designating moon names to symbolize a year in your own life.
- The young mage who cast the dark "unmagic" spell of nothingness on the Rokkat House is a dragonsalt addict, whose needs for this vile drug allow Alzena and Nuhar to control him. Ben Ladradun is addicted to the excitement that comes from the thrill of setting a fire and the respect he gains in fighting them. Ask readers to list the illegal substances that may lead to addiction and discuss the physical and legal consequences of using them. Are there addictions, other than those to drugs, that may prove just as dangerous?
- The intricate patterns on the hands of Yazmin Hebet, the most famous dancer in the Pebbled Sea, are referred to as "mehndi", the art of applying henna, a natural colorant in the form of a leaf paste, onto the surface of the skin. Used since ancient times, the lacy rhythmical designs reminds wearers of the magic that connects us all to the mystery of life. Using Internet or library resources, have students learn more about this decorative art, its origins, its symbolism and how it has begun to manifest in today's American culture.
- The warring worlds and group dynamics of the Vipers, the Camelguts and other gangs on the streets of Chammur remind Briar of his former days as a gang member in Hajra his view that there was safety and identity in group numbers. Compare Briar's view with Evvy's, in which she states a gang is only good for hating and is "just one more pack of wild dogs looking to tear me apart." (p. 181) How do their sentiments compare with yours? Do you believe that street gangs in the real world are a menace or a safe haven for young people?
- Briar's invocation of "Lakik Trickster" and Ben Ladradun's worship the trickster Sythuthan demonstrate that the mythologies of the different cultural groups met in this series include the folkloric trickster, who may be sly and mischievous or wise and helpful as s/he overcomes the insurmountable. Share trickster tales from different cultures in our own world with readers, including Africa's Anansi, the Native American Coyote, the Southern African-American Brer Rabbit. Create role-plays in which readers may step into their characters and act out their stories
- Evvy's cats, whom she croons to and feeds, even when she, herself, doesn't have enough to eat; and Tris's recollection of a time when only the animals of the house cared for her demonstrate how nurturing animals can fill a very important void in the lives of the young and not so young. Do you have a special bond with an animal friend? What does this companion bring to you? Write a short poem about a special animal in your life.
- When Tris meets a Tharian prathmun , she is given an unpleasant window into a rigid class system in which status is hereditary, ascribed and not achieved. Identify and react to the hierarchical groups into which the society of Tharios is divided and the positions occupied by each. Then, compare/contrast the Tharian social system with the caste system of ancient India, paying particular attention to the disreputable prathmuni and "untouchable" classes, and with the social system in the United States.
- The ceremony of Last Rites held for Wulfric in the Temple of Harrier the Clawed; Briar's greeting in which he bows and touches hand to heart and then to forehead; the Tharian belief in reincarnation, suggest that different belief systems and practices in the secondary world of The Circle Opens are influenced by eastern religions such as Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Confucianism. Using Internet and library resources, review the history and fundamental beliefs, symbols, sacred books and practices associated with each. How might these eastern religions differ from Christianity?
- The miniature trees nurtured and shaped by Briar displayed many of the varied classical forms particular to the art of "bonsai", in which miniature trees, grown in pots, are shaped by pruning, wiring and positioning, in a manner dictated by the natural shape of the tree and the culture and personality of its owner. Using library and Internet sources, research the origins and practice of bonsai and view images of basic pattern shapes including: the Broom, the Slanting, the Windblown, Cascades, the Double Trunk and the Clump. Suggest that readers choose and draw the shape most representative of their own personalities, writing a paragraph to explain their choice.
- Discuss the significance of the following quotes in the contexts in which they were spoken as well as in the broader context of life in general.
"Too much education does ruin a perfectly good mind. " (Duke Vedris IV, Book 1, page 213)
"Even an ill wind blows some good..." (Sandry, Book 1, page 165)
"Sometimes, thinking ahead was just as good as magic." (Rosethorn, Book 2, page78)
"You're born with magic, it just gets frustrated if you get older and you don't do anything real with it, so it breaks out." (Briar, Book 2, page 90)
"Don't fight the body the gods send you." (Olennika Potcracker, Book 3, page 120
"You don't know what you can do until you're tested." (Frostpine, Book 3, page 235)
"We are great believers in time... and the eternal balance of things."
(Jumshida, Book 4, page 237).
" It [teaching] is a matter of persuasion, not orders." (Book 4, page120)
Other Fantasy Series to Compare and Contrast
A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula LeGuin
The Dark is Rising by Susan Cooper
Time Quartet by Madeleine L'Engle
Chronicles of Prydain by Lloyd Alexander
The Enchanted Forest Chronicles by Patricia Wrede
The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley
Other Books by Tamora Pierce
The Circle of Magic Quartet
Sandry's Book
Tris's Book
Daja's Book
Briar's Book
The Song of the Lioness Quartet
Alanna: The First Adventure
In the Hand of the Goddess
The Woman Who Rides Like A Man
Lioness Rampant
The Immortals Quartet
Wild Magic
The Emperor Mage
The Realms of the Gods
The Protector of the Small Quartet
First Test
Lady Knight
About the Author
Critically acclaimed author of modern fantasy for young readers, Tamora Pierce has written many fantasy quartets popular in the United States and overseas. She says of her beginnings as an author that, "after discovering fantasy and science fiction in the seventh grade, I was hooked on writing. I tried to write the same kinds of stories I read, except with teenage girl heroes-not too many of those around in the 1960s." In addition to the richly detailed fantasy worlds and winning protagonists in the highly praised series The Song of the Lioness, The Immortals, and The Protector of the Small , the books in Tamora Pierce's Circle of Magic quartet introduced four unforgettable mages-in-training that captured the hearts of readers everywhere and were honored as ALA "Quick Picks" for Reluctant Young Adult Readers, Booklist Top Ten Fantasy Novels, VOYA Best Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror (1997), and more. Now, at the urging of her many readers, who encouraged her through letters and e-mails to explore the lives of these four young mages further, Tamora Pierce has completed The Circle Opens.
Tamora Pierce lives in New York City with her husband, their three cats (Scrap, Pee Wee and Ferret), two parakeets (Zorak and the Junior Birdman), and a "floating population of rescued wildlife." Her website address is http://www.tamora-pierce.com/
Discussion Guide written by Dr. Rosemary B. Stimola, Associate Professor of Children's Literature at Hostos Community College/City University of New York and editorial/educational consultant to publishers of children's books.
- Subjects:Biracial and Multiracial Experiences, Codes, Messages, Signs, Literacy, Literature, Reading Comprehension, Literary Devices, Literature Appreciation, Research Skills, Vocabulary, Narrative Writing, Poetry Writing, Arts and Creativity, Foreign Languages and ESL, Courage, Bravery, Heroism, Creativity and Imagination, Determination and Perseverance, Geography and Map Skills, Magic and Supernatural, Maps and Globes, Leadership and Responsibility, Pride and Self-Esteem, Survival
- Skills:Literary Elements, Reading Comprehension, Maps, Online Sources, Reference Sources, Codes, Messages, and Signs, Research Skills, Vocabulary, Narrative Writing, Poetry Writing


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Can the oyster industry survive ocean acidification?
For four frustrating months in 2007, Mark Wiegardt and his wife, Sue Cudd, witnessed something unsettling at their Oregon oyster hatchery: tank bottoms littered with dead baby oysters. Usually, the larvae are grown until they're three weeks old and a quarter of a millimeter in size -- 10 million bunched together are roughly the size of a tennis ball. Then they are shipped to 50-some growers in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. But that summer, the oysters died before they were ready to ship. Whiskey Creek Shellfish Hatchery struggled to fill a third of its orders.
"You have good and bad weeks, but this was a blanket kill on everything we tried to do," recalls Wiegardt. "We thought we were going out of business because we couldn't make the larvae grow."
It turned out that "corrosive" seawater, which makes it harder for young oysters to build shells, was largely to blame. Like the atmosphere, the world's seas are burdened by our fossil fuel use and deforestation. The ocean has sponged up a quarter of the carbon dioxide humans have produced since the Industrial Revolution, steadily lowering its pH. Today's seas are 30 percent more acidic than their pre-industrial ancestors. By the turn of the century, scientists anticipate they will be 150 percent more so -- a trend that led National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) chief Jane Lubchenco to call ocean acidification climate change's "equally evil twin."
Even if manmade carbon emissions ceased tomorrow, the West Coast would face decades of increasingly corrosive water because the ocean is laden with CO2 from decades past and will continue to absorb the CO2 already in the air, slowly changing its chemistry. "The train has already left the station," says Richard Feely, a senior fellow at NOAA's Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory in Seattle. "If we don't reduce carbon dioxide emissions, we'll (see) conditions that will be corrosive to more species."
Creatures that build shells from calcium carbonate -- pteropods, for example, tiny sea snails that swim with dainty "wings" and nourish the pink salmon that sustain Alaska's fishing industry -- are particularly vulnerable. In water, CO2 becomes carbonic acid, which releases hydrogen ions when it breaks down. The hydrogen ions bond with carbonate ions, stealing them from animals that use them to form calciferous homes. Experiments with non-shelled species have also yielded disturbing results. Clownfish -- the orange-and-white-striped reef dwellers immortalized in Finding Nemo -- seem to go deaf when raised in seawater with CO2 levels predicted to be present by 2050 and 2100.
But for Northwest oyster growers, ocean acidification is no distant threat. The Whiskey Creek die-offs, which continued in 2008, dealt the industry a serious blow, since the hatchery supplies the majority of independent West Coast growers. Production also slumped at Washington's Taylor Shellfish Inc., another major producer, in 2008 and 2009, and acidic water probably played a role. These declines came at an especially vulnerable moment: Larvae growing naturally at Washington's Willapa Bay, a chief source of wild seed, had also been failing, because the water was too cold. Seed shortages contributed to the region's 22 percent drop in production between 2005 and 2009, according to a trade group. "Ocean acidification poses a serious threat to Washington's marine economy, cultures, and environment," concluded a recent report from Washington state, the West Coast oyster industry's hub.
Now, growers are attempting to adapt to the sea's new chemical reality. Experiments are under way at Whiskey Creek and at least one other hatchery, which, owing to their geography, have already experienced what's expected to become the West Coast's norm before too long. These experiments should help the industry answer a pressing question: Can it survive the inevitable?
Whiskey Creek's three barn-like buildings sit on Netarts Bay, a shallow, tree-fringed estuary whose wide mouth opens onto the azure Pacific. At low tide, the bay drains into the ocean; at high tide it's replenished. Since the bay's water exchanges frequently, it's an almost direct chemical reflection of the adjacent sea. Water conditions vary drastically between April and October, when northwesterly winds push surface water offshore, allowing water 500 to 650 feet below the surface to flow upward into near-shore regions -- a process known as upwelling. When that water hugs the coastline, it surges into Netarts Bay.
The upwelling water is rich with dissolved CO2, thanks in part to microbes that feast on decaying plants and animals in the deep, releasing CO2 as they go. This is a natural process, but CO2 from human activities has increased gas concentrations in upwelled water by about 12 percent, says NOAA's Feely. Together, the manmade and natural CO2 make this water's chemistry similar to what scientists expect to become commonplace along the West Coast by 2050. That's particularly true when it comes to a low availability of carbonate ions, which oysters use to build shells.
Research suggests that in the first two days of their lives, oyster larvae in carbonate-deficient water burn through energy faster than usual because they have to work harder to build shells. This exhausts them, retarding their growth. The oysters' failure to thrive is akin to young children eating lead-paint chips and later, in their teens, scoring miserably on SAT tests, says Burke Hales, a professor of ocean ecology and biogeochemistry at Oregon State University.
It's time for some journalistic credibility.
Are there specific aspects of the story you wish to comment on? Otherwise, we ask that you refrain from personal attacks on the authors of HCN stories and other commenters, per our comment policy. This story was thoroughly reported and fact checked with many scientists, a number of whom are quoted in the story. In our view, the fact that Brendon is not a scientist does not compromise his ability to report on this subject matter. In fact, most journalists are not credentialed experts in the subjects they report on.
Cally Carswell
Assistant Editor, High Country News
Other researchers have begun focusing more attention on the oceanic component of what is essentially a closely-coupled, dynamically interactive atmospheric-oceanic system which comprises the Earth's biosphere, and the findings are in stark contrast to the claim of skeptics (who frequently attempt to argue that acidification isn't a problem either):
Research shows humans are primary cause of global ocean warming over past 50 years
To say the oceans are corrosive, and that the pH lowers as it absorbs CO2 are just plain factually wrong! Mr. Bosworth needs to take a chemistry lesson.
The use of the term "ocean acidification" is designed to mislead, and the impression is that the oceans are turning to acid and destroying all life. This is so far from the truth, it is beyond comprehension. Using the word "acidification" is like saying "reversing" when slowing down going forwards. "Acidification" is used in the scientific community to mean a direction and not a state, and when used outside of that community, i.e. in public communication such as this, the understanding is the state of "being acid" and not the direction of "becoming less alkaline" or "becoming more neutral". Good journalism should understand this, and phrase accordingly.
This is from a retired scientist...
"Most of the earth's rocks and seabed sediment is essentially CaCO3 (limestone, chalk etc.).
CaCO3 is insoluble in water, but when attacked by acid such as carbonic acid H2CO3 (ie CO2 + H2O) then the following reaction takes place:
CaCO3 + H2CO3 = Ca(HCO3)2 otherwise known as Calcium bicarbonate.
Ca(HCO3)2 is soluble in water and is alkaline (strong base + weak acid = weak alkaline solution).
So the *more* CO2 dissolves in the oceans the more alkaline the oceans are likely to become! In crude terms the oceans are what is called a buffer solution. Ocean pH hovers at around 8 i.e. slightly alkaline.
To summarise. Unless the earth's crust *completely runs out of limestone and other carbonates of Calcium* (and Magnesium; Magnesium Carbonate = dolomite) the oceans can never become acidic.
Local variations can occur of course where there is no limestone present, but even silicate rocks can be slowly attacked by CO2 with a somewhat similar result."
Ms. Carswell, Mr. Lewis was not making a "personal attack", but pointing out, as I have done, that Mr. Bosworth should have undertaken some basic scientific learning before writing such an article, and editors such as yourself should have checked the (so-called) 'facts' for accuracy. To print such an article laden with fundamental errors is either just sloppy journalism, or reveals an pre-disposed bias towards climate alarmism.
Cally Carswell
HCN assistant editor
Ocean acidification is not some nebulous phenomena dreamed up by Mr. Bosworth (great article btw); a quick Web search for the term would have revealed scores of entries on the subject, e.g.:
Ilma, I suspect your "scientist" may have retired some time back.


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Thanks to the timeline of Jonah Keri, who is furiously rubbing one out to Montreal Expos clips, I've found some new online videos at MLB.com.
Your day will not be productive from this point forward.
Belle walk-off grand slam 7/18/95
Hafner 6th grand slam in 2006 8/13/06
Belle's 50th HR in 1995 9/30/95
Hafner ALDS Game 2 Walk-Off single 10/5/07 - with Hammy's call
Lofton steals two bags in Game 1 of '95 World Series 10/21/95
Tribe wins '95 Pennant 10/17/95
Lofton scoring from 2nd on passed ball in '95 ALCS 10/15/95
The catch 8/4/96 - was at this game for my dad's birthday. I was 9 and we were in the bleachers. Great memory.
Baerga homers from both sides of plate in same inning 4/8/93
Thome's 511-foot monster home run 7/3/99
Robbie flashes the leather to end the game 8/13/99
Sandy climbs the net 8/2/94
Wayne Kirby walks-off in Jacobs Field Opener 4/4/94
The comeback 8/5/01
Eddie Murray World Series walk-off 10/24/95
Lofton sets stolen base record 4/7/96
Manny's iconic walk-off homer off of Eckersley 7/16/95
Three homer game for Manny 9/15/98 - I love watching young Manny hit
ALCS Clinching Out in 1997 10/15/97
Record 164-RBI season for Manny 9/30/99
1997 All-Star Game 7/8/97
The Phantom Squeeze 10/11/97
Tony Pena goes walk-off 10/3/95
Tribe clinches first Central Division title 9/8/95
When midges attack 10/5/07
Alomar likes the cutter 10/5/97
#250 for Thome 6/12/01
#3000 for Eddie Murray 6/30/95
#200 for Thome 4/15/00
You're welcome.


text:
All tuition and charges must be paid in full, or payment arrangements must be in place, prior to midnight on AUGUST 18, 2013. Please access the Student Self-Service website for online payments: https://students.kctcs.edu.
Should financial aid or third party agencies not cover the full amount of tuition and charges, the student must pay the balance prior to midnight on AUGUST 18, 2013 to avoid cancellation.
Failure to pay by the deadline will result in the cancellation of all classes for the fall term.
Students cancelled for nonpayment will be assessed a reinstatement charge to re-enroll in the cancelled classes.
NOTE: Financial Aid Verification Priority Deadline for FALL 2013 is JULY 12, 2013. Please check your student self-service or call 1-855-66GO-SCC for more information.
Currently enrolled students have access to a KCTCS student self service account. Please access your student self service account for important information such as grades and student bills. More information regarding your student self service account can be found on the Current Students page under Services and Resources.


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text:
Debates of May 3rd, 2004
House of Commons Hansard #46 of the 37th Parliament, 3rd Session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was aboriginal.
- Constitution Act
- Canada National Parks Act
- Criminal Code
- Genie Awards
- Fishing Industry
- University of Prince Edward Island
- Firearms Act
- National Forest Week
- The Environment
- European Union
- Pay Equity
- World Press Freedom Day
- Persons with Disabilities
- Stevie Cameron
- Health
- Foreign Affairs
- Canadian Foundation for Innovation
- World Press Freedom Day
- Science and Technology
- Transportation
- Health
- Government Contracts
- Health
- Government Contracts
- National Defence
- Air Canada
- Foundations
- Fisheries
- Infrastructure
- Taxation
- Technology Partnerships Canada
- Port Security
- Public Service
- Fisheries and Oceans
- Air Canada
- National Defence
- Shipbuilding
- Multiculturalism
- Health
- Atomic Energy of Canada Limited
- Justice
- Cinar
- Shipbuilding Industry
- Government Response to Petitions
- Petitions
- Questions on the Order Paper
- Criminal Code
- Fisheries Act
- Budget Implementation Act, 2004
Statements By Members
2:10 p.m.
Libby Davies Vancouver East, BC
Mr. Speaker, I was proud to join thousands of British Columbians on May Day to send a powerful message to Gordon Campbell and the federal Liberals. Stop the privatization of our public health care and the trampling of workers' rights.
HEU members and thousands of trade unionists who supported them are on the front line to force back Bill 37, the most draconian piece of legislation that slashes wages and privatizes our health care.
Jack Layton and federal New Democrats are taking on the federal Liberals, who are giving Gordon Campbell the green light to push privatization. We stand with our provincial colleagues, leader Carole James, and MLA's Joy MacPhail and Jenny Kwan. Their tireless work was part of a massive campaign, along with the B.C. Federation of Labour and the community, to push back Gordon Campbell's anti-worker and anti-health care agenda.
The power of people united for the dignity of workers and our public health care system is something that we are proud to be a part of.
Foreign Affairs
Statements By Members
2:10 p.m.
Francine Lalonde Mercier, QC
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister of Canada has come back empty-handed from Washington. There was no commitment from President Bush about the unjust and shocking dispute over softwood lumber, despite the NAFTA tribunal's decision in favour of Canada.
The Prime Minister has come home empty-handed on the issue of mad cow as well; President Bush told him that, someday, perhaps, the American border might reopen. What a firm commitment.
Meanwhile, thousands of dairy and beef farmers are suffering from the overall drop in the price of beef. The Prime Minister did not even get any hints from the American government that it might reduce its grain subsidies, which are killing our producers.
Finally, the Prime Minister was caught in a flagrant contradiction. While he is in favour of putting the coordination of the missile defence shield in the hands of Norad, he told President Bush that he was opposed to the weaponization of space but that, ultimately, the decision would be made in the fall, that is, after the election.
What a lovely example of democracy, and what a fine mess.
Canadian Foundation for Innovation
Statements By Members
2:10 p.m.
Gilbert Barrette Témiscamingue, QC
Mr. Speaker, on April 26, the Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec announced an investment of $311,856 under the Canadian Foundation for Innovation for research at the Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue.
This investment will create research infrastructure for new researchers in silviculture and wildlife management.
One of the purposes of the CFI is to enhance the capacity of universities to pursue research activities and develop technology in world-class facilities to benefit all Canadians.
World Press Freedom Day
Statements By Members
2:10 p.m.
Canadian Alliance
John Reynolds West Vancouver—Sunshine Coast, BC
Mr. Speaker, today we celebrate World Press Freedom Day and in particular freedom of the press in those parts of the world where that freedom exists.
At noon today, dozens of journalists and others who cherish freedom of the press gathered at the National Press Club of Canada on Wellington Street across from Parliament Hill.
Among those attending to celebrate freedom of the press were those who remember Zahra Kazemi, a Canadian photojournalist who was murdered in Iran. She was accused of spying while doing her job, and then tortured and beaten to death. Her treatment was a flagrant violation of her rights and a reminder that freedom of the press is not guaranteed anywhere on the planet.
I would recommend to anyone in Ottawa that they visit the National Press Club on Wellington Street to see how others around the world define freedom of the press.
There are 40 award winning newspaper cartoons on display relating to freedom of the press. It is enlightening to see how others around the world are still defining and fighting for freedom of the press. It is a struggle we should all join and support.
Science and Technology
Statements By Members
May 3rd, 2004 / 2:10 p.m.
Andrew Telegdi Kitchener—Waterloo, ON
Mr. Speaker, last Friday, Ophelia and Mike Lazaridis of Blackberry fame anchored a $100 million quantum computing initiative at the University of Waterloo with a $33.3 million donation.
Using quantum information will result in developing computers unimaginable until now, encrypt information with unbreakable security, and discover a range of quantum enabled devices that would transform our economy and society.
As Paul Davies, author of "New Physics" stated: "I believe the twenty first century will be the quantum age". Our Prime Minister, in commending Ophelia and Mike's efforts, stated: "This initiative will help make Canada a world leader in the sector. The significance of this endeavour cannot be overstated".
This is Canada at its best. Ophelia and Mike's generosity in the pursuit of excellence in expanding the boundaries of science is an inspiration to us all.
Statements By Members
2:15 p.m.
Canadian Alliance
John Duncan Vancouver Island North, BC
Mr. Speaker, the communities of the Comox Valley authorized local spending of $6 million to build a new air terminal. The sparkling new terminal opened April 16. This will serve to retain direct WestJet connections between Comox, Calgary and Edmonton.
The local communities have a further financial burden now because the plan is to begin international service this fall and as a result they will have to pay $250,000 a year for customs staff.
The Liberal government airport policy creates winners and losers. Federal policy charges customs fees for terminals built since 1994, which discriminates against small communities most in need of economic diversification.
Customs and immigration is a federal responsibility with security implications. The federal government must stop imposing these costs on to local airport authorities.
Oral Question Period
2:15 p.m.
Calgary Southwest
Canadian Alliance
Stephen Harper Leader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, the Minister of Health made a number of statements on health care over the past couple of weeks. On Thursday, he appeared to backtrack on those statements in a public statement, but he never said what his position actually was. One of his lines was the following, "The Canada Health Act does not preclude delivery of services by private delivery".
My question for the government is simple. Does the Canada Health Act provide flexibility on private delivery?
Oral Question Period
2:15 p.m.
Edmonton West
Anne McLellan Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
Mr. Speaker, our government has been absolutely clear, as have Canadians been absolutely clear. They believe in a publicly funded health care system. They also expect their Government of Canada to defend and enforce the five principles of the Canada Health Act. That is exactly what the government will do.
Oral Question Period
2:15 p.m.
Calgary Southwest
Canadian Alliance
Stephen Harper Leader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, I asked the government a reasonably simple question and it should have been able to give a simple answer. I will ask the Minister of Health directly. The Minister of Health said, "The Canada Health Act already provides flexibility on private delivery". Does the Canada Health Act already provide flexibility on private delivery?
Oral Question Period
2:15 p.m.
Pierre Pettigrew Minister of Health
Mr. Speaker, our government is working very hard with the provinces at this time. We will cooperate with the provinces. We will engage in discussions with them, but there is one thing I can say. Let me quote the position of the leader of the Conservative Alliance, who has this to say about health care, "The solution is to have a health care system where people pay some of the costs themselves". This is not the position of this government.
Oral Question Period
2:15 p.m.
Calgary Southwest
Canadian Alliance
Stephen Harper Leader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, as a private citizen in the past few years, I paid a lot of my own health care bills and that is the case today with a lot of Canadians, if the Minister of Health does not already know it.
The Minister of Health also said, "If some provinces want to experiment with the private delivery option, my view is that as long as they respect the single-payer, public payer, we should be examining these efforts".
Does the Minister of Health continue to believe that the provinces will need to have this flexibility? Yes or no?
Oral Question Period
2:15 p.m.
Pierre Pettigrew Minister of Health
Mr. Speaker, it is very obvious that our government wants to work with the provinces. We want to do so in a spirit of cooperation. One thing is absolutely clear: we want Canadians to never have to pay with anything other than their health card. We want Canadians to use their health card, not their credit card, to have access to health care.
Oral Question Period
2:15 p.m.
Progressive Conservative
Peter MacKay Pictou—Antigonish—Guysborough, NS
Mr. Speaker, rather than governing, the Prime Minister continues his touring, pre-election. The Prime Minister, shipping magnate, millionaire, champion of the poor, defender, creator of the democratic deficit, now healer of health care is in Toronto today announcing $10 million to help the disabled.
The Prime Minister is a walking contradiction. While he was minister of finance, he inflicted the deepest cuts in Canadian history.
Oral Question Period
2:15 p.m.
Some hon. members
Oh, oh.
Oral Question Period
2:15 p.m.
The Speaker
Order, please. The hon. member for Pictou—Antigonish—Guysborough has the floor.


text:
Vicki, you're amazing. And you've got some pipes!
Sample verse:
Sarah packs a gun and she kills moose
And with our Constitution she plays loose
She wants creationism taught in the schools
McCain must think we're nothing but fools
Sarah, Sarah Palin
She doesn't speak for me
Please note: as an issue-based organization, People For doesn't advocate for or against the election of any candidates for office to non-members.


text:
RetireNetCare.com featuring retirement communities and retirement homes in planned active developments. Worldwide resource for active retirement senior communities, and assisted living facilities. RetireNetCare.com is the most comprehensive resource of retirement communities throughout the world featuring assisted living facilities, planned retirement communities and various retirement properties worldwide. See also: senior housing, retirement communities, retirement living, elder care network.
Over its relatively long history it has also been occupied by Native American populations and has been part of the Spanish viceroyalty of New Spain, a state of Mexico and a U.S. territory. Among U.S. states, New Mexico has simultaneously the highest percentage of Hispanic Americans (some recent immigrants and others descendants of Spanish colonists) and the second-highest percentage of Native American after Alaska (mostly Navajo and Pueblo peoples). As a result, the demographics and culture of the state are unique for their strong Spanish, Mexican, and U.S. Amerindian cultural influences. The United States Census Bureau estimates that the state population was 1,954,599 in 2006, a 7.45% increase since 2000.
To view related LOCATIONS, choose from the list below:
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text:
73" Mitsubishi 3D DLP 1080p WiFi Ready HDTV
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About this itemFree standard shipping for online orders.
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text:
"Stands on his head daily at 83"
The Columbus Dispatch - March 22, 2013 03:23 PM
You never know what you'll find in the Dispatch library's old photo print archives.
In May 1964, a man named Willy Meyer visited the Dispatch newsroom and stood on his head.
What made it interesting was that Meyer was 83 years old at the time.
The Dispatch reported that he "turns upside down and counts to 20 every day to keep his mind alert."
The story, "Upside Down Willy," profiled the new Columbus citizen, who spoke in a thick German accent. After his wife passed away, he moved to Columbus to be near his son, who was a surgeon at St. Anthony's Hospital, daughter-in-law and four grandchildren. Previously, he and his wife lived in Jamaica, New York, where they ran restaurants and night clubs.
"Willy proclaims he is so healthy because he has been a gymnast since birth and a vegetarian in later years," The Dispatch reported. He was also a self-proclaimed inventor and numerologist.
"I'll bet anyone in Columbus over 80 $10," he said, "that they can't stand on their heads to the count of 20."
He had photographs taken of him performing the stunt at Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Canyon, Catalina Island, the 1939 World's Fair and in numerous friends' backyards.
What made Willy such a happy man at 83?
"I had so much fun in my life. I make people laugh -- and still do today."


text:
SmillaEnlarger is a small graphical tool ( based on Qt ) to resize, especially magnify bitmaps in high quality. ( The used algorithm is an invention of my own )
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User Reviews
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text:
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text: Some more info on the HID conversion please. Art in TO -----Original Message----- From: gpzlist-bounces at micapeak.com [mailto:gpzlist-bounces at micapeak.com] On Behalf Of Ian Westlake Sent: 19 June 2010 12:09 To: GPZ List Subject: Re: lighting, etc. Got an HID conversion on my 96 and it is the muts! 200% improvement on the standard. Current draw is slightly less as well so no problem. It's not so much that it's brighter as it's whiter, makes everything crystal clear. When I first fitted I was going out everynight just for fun! Ian 96 in blue Ps hi-viz all the way as well ! Sent from my iPhone On 19 Jun 2010, at 15:26, Dave King <oldfr8dog at yahoo.com> wrote: Drew, nothing adds visibility like reflective gear. Tourmaster makes some excellent quality riding gear that incorporates reflective striping but doesn't look too tacky. --- On Sat, 6/19/10, Drew Blanchard <drewblanchard at gmavt.net> wrote: From: Drew Blanchard <drewblanchard at gmavt.net> Subject: lighting, etc. To: "GPZ LIST" <gpzlist at micapeak.com> Date: Saturday, June 19, 2010, 9:50 AM Trying to increase both my visibility and view at night. What do you use for auxiliary lighting? I'm thinking of adding some fork mounted driving lights, but I've also seen threads in here about HID conversions and other options for better night time driving. Pros and cons? Options? If I'm also adding heated grips, I'm concerned about overall electrical draw. I also want to add something to increase visibility to traffic approaching from behind. I've seen spinners and flashers added to brake systems, but some are more annoying than helpful. Added visibility when braking isn't my only concern; I often drive home on rainy nights, and want to increase my overall visible "footprint" to traffic. Suggestions for additional tail lighting? And, again, I'm worried about the total load placed on the electrical system. Drew