text:
"what way are the spikes to go on the bed? face down or face up?"
Have purchased 4 of these foam toppers in various sizes for all the beds in our home. We're very happy with the quality and comfort of these toppers. Our guests have remarked on how well they slept in our guest room....
Slumber Solutions Highloft Supreme 4-inch Memory Foam Mattress Topperby Slumber Solutions
- 100-percent polyurethane foam
- 3-pound density
- Helps rejuvenate tired muscles and eases back pain
- Meets all flammability standards
- 4-inch thickness for ultimate comfort
- Twin: 37 inches wide x 72 inches long
- Full: 51 inches wide x 72 inches long
- Queen: 58 inches wide x 77 inches long
- King: 75 inches wide x 78 inches long
- California King: 70 inches wide x 80 inches long
Memory Foam Tips:
- Remove from packaging within 72 hours of receipt to maximize memory foam expansion.
- This product arrives very tightly packed. Unwrap and allow 48 hours for this product to return to its original shape.
- Being sealed in plastic packaging sometimes traps odors. After unwrapping, allow product to air for a few hours.
- Due to machine-cutting manufacturing processes, there may be slight variances in the dimensions of this product.
Due to the nature of Memory Foam the firmness level of every item is unique. Please be advised that even similar products may produce different firmness results
Topper dimensions may be slightly smaller than your mattress dimensions. Size has been designed to allow you to easily secure your fitted sheet over your new memory foam topper. Please keep this in mind when you place the topper on your mattress.
Once opened this item is not returnable.
Click here to view mattress topper buying guide.
|Egg Crate Topper, Mattress Topper
|4 Inch
|Memory Foam Type
|Memory Foam
|3 Pound
|Product Features
|Made in USA
|California King, Full, King, Queen, Twin
|See description
|3 year Limited Manufacturer
|Model Number
|Country of Origin
|United States
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Customer Reviews
Most Recent
Sweet dreams
Have purchased 4 of these foam toppers in various sizes for all the beds in our home. We're very happy with the quality and comfort of these toppers. Our guests have remarked on how well they slept in our guest room.Read More
Feels like I'm in heaven
The topper sleeps so good feels like in in heaven and don't wanna move.Read More
Love It!
Will never go less than 4-inch mattress topper again. This is Wonderful! Don't want to get out of bed!Read More
A slice of heaven
This is so comfortable. You just sink into it and it holds much more body heat. Had to take blankets off because it was so hot. Have to get used to the softness. Can't keep the kids off it.Read More
So happy with this? We have used it on a sleeper sofa and on a regular mattress and give it rave reviews for both. There is the smell others mention which goes away with time. It can also tear easily and denegrate as others have also mentioned. It's totally worth the money though and the 4" is absolutely the way to go if you want a cushy, pillow top feel. Love it!Read More
Most Helpful
It is difficult to choose from the wide array of memory foam toppers that O. has available for purchase. After having purchased several over the years I am offering my two cents worth review on them. They ALL will probably smell for a few days after opening them but that smell will eventually disappear & then you're left with a terrific product that will give you a great night's rest----(so ,totally worth the initial " smell issue!! ) I think either 3" or 4" is good, depending on the depth you need for your sheets to fit. Also, both the 3 # density and the 4# density is s-o-o-o cushy & comfy, so that is a matter of personal choice....but I would not buy a topper with less than 3" to 4" height or less than 3 to 4 pound density. I know they are a little bit more $pendy than the 2" or the 2 pound density-----but totally worth the extra dollars spent. My personal favorite is the 3" - 3 pound density BODIPEDIC because it comes with a terrific, (great fitting) cover that protects the foam. The SERTA 4" - 4 pound density is very nice too except that it does not include a cover but it does come with contour pillows, so if you prefer those type of pillows, that is a great buy too. Both are extremely comfortable & the reviews to years sold ratio is about the same on the Bodipedic & the Serta toppers.----( Hope this helps with your topper shopping! )Read More
Comparison 3" and 4" Memory Foam Toppers
I used to wake up everyday with aches in my neck and lower back. I am only 30 but I felt like I was 90, all crotchety and stiff. I was involved in a serious car accident and have always needed 15 pillows to find comfort even when sitting up. I am exaggerating but you get the point. I always hurt. We had purchased a new pillow top mattress thinking that would help. It was quite firm and I did not want to deal with the hassle of finding another expensive failure. I resorted to these toppers. I purchased 2 of the Slumber Solutions Highloft Supreme Memory Foam toppers in the standard King size (one 3" and one 4"). I couldn't decide after reading the reviews so I bought both....If you are trying to decide between the 3" and the 4" Let me help you out. READ THIS. Both had a smell...nothing to run away from...just a little like fresh rubber and Pine-sol. Most of it went away by the 2nd day. Surprisingly the 4" was less smelly than the 3". Let me tell you - There is a HUGE difference between the softness/squishyness between the 3" and the 4" heights although everything else is the same (density, size, etc). The 3" provides cushion but nothing ultra plush. It provides extra comfort but you can still feel the hard bed through the bottom of the topper. The 4" is the ultimate in comfort. It is super thick and you CAN NOT feel the hard mattress underneath. I was able to put the 4" on the floor and not feel the floor. You could feel the floor through the 3". I never would have thought that 1" would make that much difference but IT DOES! It is unusual because the 4" is soooo soft but yet my back doesn't sink into a hole. I tried it with the fingers up and with the fingers down and I prefer them up. I feel like they are holding me up everywhere they touch my body -back of the neck, shoulder blades, lower back, even the back of my legs, hammys, and calves.. I didn't think I would like it. I have never been an egg crate kind of gal but this is different. I absolutely love to cuddle into my bed and rub my feet back and forth giving me a little massage right before I drift off into bliss. ...I guess this is what people mean by sleeping on air. I never understood them or what they meant when they said that. It is really nice. I seriously ask my husband every morning "How did we live without this?" He agrees. We have never had so much comfort out of an item that cost so little. I needed soft cushion with good support and the 4" is the answer. Both the 3" and the 4" are GREAT products and I would recommend both. We use the 3" king -cut into 2 twins- for my 3 year old son and also the guest bed. Both beds were hard as cement and it was actually nicer to sleep on the floor before. Topper sizing was perfect standard King makes 2 twins- just cut with sharp scissors. Now with the toppers they are quite comfy. My son no longer climbs out of his bed to sleep on the floor. My guest also commented that his bed was tremendously more comfortable too. He slept on the bed before the topper arrived and then after I placed it on the bed. NIGHT AND DAY DIFFERENCE> So, in conclusion, if you are trying to decide between the 3" and the 4" and you are looking for squishy, supportive comfort GO WITH THE 4". If you need to save a few dollars then go with the 3" but I can almost guarantee that you will wish you had spent the few extra dollars for the 4" right after you receive the 3. Do yourself a favor and do it right the first time BUY THE 4 TOPPER.Read More
Love this topper!
Our mattress needs to be replaced and will be soon. Until then, I have been looking around for a nice topper that didn't break the bank. The price was so reasonable that I was skeptical about ordering at first. Am I glad that I did! I love this topper! Follow the directions, though. When you open it, do not force it open. I put it in a spare room to allow it to return back to the original shape by removing the plastic wrap carefully and gently opening it just partially. Just be sure to follow directions so you don't damage as it arrives very, very compact. After 48 hours, i put it on the bed and it fit my queen perfectly. I did go out and purchase a nice fitted sheet to fit a 16inch mattress since it adds 4inches and I didn't want it squished. Great purchase. Couldn't be happier and the price was a steal!Read More
Great Topper
This is a really nice topper - very comfortable though it took some getting used to but memory foam is new to me. I really love it and have not found it to be too hot as some have commented. One word of caution....this thing is 4" tall! If you have a pillowtop mattress AND you add this topper you are going to have an issue keeping the fitted sheet on unless you have *really* deep pockets. This is the only problem I'm having at the moment. I will more than likely invest in a set of sheet suspenders to take care of the issue until I am able to purchase some extra deep sheets. (P.S. Regular Deep pockets are not deep enough with my pillow top). But overall, an excellent value for the money and it has completely solved the sagging "valleys" in my king size pillow top. LOVE THIS and would recommend!Read More
Perfect Solution
I just got this topper for a guest bed that was ok but not great to sleep on instead of buying a new matress right now. I slept on it last night to test it out and must say it was AMAZING. It was so comfortable I am thinking about purchasing one for my high dollar bed that is starting to show signs of wearing down only after 3 years. I would highy reccomend this topper great value for the money looked around at several department stores in our area and got sticker shock and they were only 2 inch foam toppers.Read More
Questions & Answers
So in the images they are face up to show the depth and quality. Though, when putting on your mattress make sure the spikes are face down. You will notice it is so much more comfortable this way! (Flat side up to sleep on :)
We have ours spikes up and it is very comfortable that way too.
Face up and I place a sheet and blanket over it to get a pillowy affect.
I have mine face up, my daughter has it face down. Both ways are extremely comfortable!
I have mine with spikes face up and a soft blanket instead of a sheet over them. Very comfortable. Try it both ways and see what's best for you.
I personally like it with spikes up. Gives it a more lofty, soft feeling. Love this topper!! Feels like I'm sleeping on a cloud. Try it both ways, I don't believe there is a wrong way!
Face up but it's preference!
i've been using mine spike side up very nice
The spikes go down. But I disagree with one of the reviews, it holds the body heat in, so if you are hot-natured, I would do some more research. I have this very one and I love it except in the summertime, and then I wished I had done a little more research.
The spike face up and you lay directly on them. The topper is so comfortable, you would never know they were there. We've had ours for nearly a year and the topper is still like new. This was a fantastic buy, so much so that we got one for our guest bedroom too!
Yes, definitely designed to face up. Not just a matter of preference, it's to promote air circulation, dummies.
We have purchased this topper twice now, for two different beds. On both we put the spikes facing UP, covered with amattress pad, and are loving the comfort these toppers give!!
Up for breath-ability but works either way.
spikes go up and it feels so good I don't want to get up . Love this topper I bought two ,one for my bed at my sons house I couldn't even sleep on the bed its so hard
Its really your preference. I had the spikes up then I switch it to down.
I have them faced up.
I chose up. Guess that's up to you though!
Up is how we do it in the hospital so I did ours the same way. My daughter says it is perfect and very comfy!
"Is this hot. Give off heat."
No, this does not give off heat.
Not in my experience. I live in the desert. That room is warm. This seems fine. I do use a cotton mattress pad over it, and light sheets. In the winter, i use my year round down comforter. I'd have to say no. This is the most wonderful addition to the hard guest room bed to make it feel like a pillow top. I do have an old 2" egg crate foam under it. So it's more like 5 inches with all the toppers i have. The 4" way better than the 2 or 3. it smushes down to about 3 inches. You can return it if you don't like it. That's the great thing about why I order from this site. :-)
No, it's not hot. However, it's not cool. It holds your body heat.
I don't notice any change in temperature on this topper. It doesn't make me hot, nor does it make me cooler.
I noticed the topper does not give off heat. It's actually rather cool. My sheets though made a huge difference in the heat. Just make sure to pick a good cool sheet.
"I am looking at the pictures for this topper and they seem to be a bit different from one another. Can you tell me if the egg crate portion of the topper is the full four inches? In one picture it shows a model lying down on the bed on what looks like a egg crate top with a solid bottom topper on top of the existing mattress. Could you tell me which picture is the true one? Thanks!"
The egg crate is the full four inches. The picture with the model is a completely different product. Odd.
yes, the egg crate is a full 4 inches--its nice-and it unrolls on its own, over a few minutes, don't try to pry it apart (lesson learned!)
Mine is also egg crate all 4" of it, no solid bottom to it.
I think it's just an issue of whether you put the egg crate side up or down. I personally like it better down, so the top looks solid. In the photos were you see the whole bed, the topper is on top of a solid one topper. What you are buying here is the egg crate one only, not the solid.
I'm not totally clear about your question, but altogether, it is 4 inches ( if you are buying the 4 inch one); one side is solid and the other has the "egg crates." I have bought this 2 times and plan to never purchase a mattress again. My first one seemed so flimsy, I tried to return it but couldn't get it back into the container, so I kept it. I'm so glad now- I've had two and see no reason to ever buy a mattress again. It prevents all of the yucky bumps, etc. from the old mattress I have from poking me while I sleep- I absolutely am 100% satisfied with it.
The memory foam mattress is not an egg crate, it is a full 4 inches of memory foam with a nice zip on cover that can be washed. I love this topper and I purchased a second one for my granddaughter, it truly is quite comfortable. Make sure you specify "memory foam" with cover. Enjoy!!!!
"the memory foam was a mistake , i want to buy 3 only not 6 please take 3 off for me Thank you"
If your order has not been placed, please feel free to update your order by selecting the shopping cart icon.
"Can you tell me how big is the bulk and how heavy it is? Does in come in a bag as the pads do? I need to know if this can be carried in a plane. Thanks."
I mean, for the queen size. :)
i got the full size so adjust your expectations accordingly; it is quite heavy. it does come in a bag very condensed and also with dozens of yards of plastic wrap holding it compacted. it's kind of a hassle to unwind all that plastic an d that needs to be disposed of. i'm 60 and have several back injuries and nerve problems so i have weakened muscles but i was able to heft it onto the bed. keep in mind that it * MUST* be given at least an hour to self uncompress because if you try to pull it apart parts of it will split away attached to the other parts. i wouldn't deal with the hassle of this item on a plane. i'd have it shipped directly to the future address or get an inflatable or go to the local **** and get something there. you could go online to see if local stores have what you need and arrange pickup there for lots of storfes.
"I want this for a Twin XL hospital bed. Will this be too short? Also the bed has an 8 inch mattress so this will make it 12 inches total. Will I be able to fit my twin XL sheets on it properly?"
The twin size will be short... try king size and cut in half You will have two toppers. I don't think you will have any problem with your sheets .
No, it is definitely too short. I ended up buying a different one. I did not like this one at all.
I use a fitted sheet for my topper and one for the mattress so this is never an issue for me . Why would anyone want to smash their topper down flat ?
good answer about having a sheet for your topper. if you have xl twin, buy the king and cut in 1/2 and stack them and cover with it's own fitted sheet. That would be so comfy. I have a 2" and 4" topper on my double xhard bed. and this turned that bed into a plush pillow top. I do like a soft bed. perhaps turn the egg crates opposite directions to one another. good luck with you xl twin hospital bed. I'm sure you will appreciate the extra cush, since the topper does smoosh down to 3" and isn't 4" when all is said and done. This inspires me to buy another for the double bed and put it's own sheet on it! thanks everyone for you input. I love Overstock.com!
"Is this a firm topper? Or super soft? Or in between?"
I would say it was on the softer side. It is so comfortable and has helped my shoulder pain since I am on a cloud instead of a hard surface like the mattress alone.
This is like sleeping on a cloud. Our mattress is hard as a rock, which we need for the support it provides. But though it helps our bad backs, our hips and shoulders were getting sore from pressure. This relieves the pressure without taking away the support. We love it.
It is soft but comfy. My daughters bed is somewhat hard as the mattress I'd directly on a board. She now loves it with the topper.
In between. My husband likes the mattress firm, and I like it soft...this topper we both love.
"What is the shipping weight? Thank you."
Hello fatimaosh, depending on the size this is 15-30 pounds. Have a great day!
"Can the twin size be cut in half and is it reversible?"
Hello Katie, the topper can be trimmed, however doing so will void any returns or warranties. The topper can be used reversed as well. Thanks for shopping with us!
"I just bought a 8 inch memory foam mattress and it was very hard so I put my 4 inch topper on it which was always very soft on my pillow top mattress. Now the topper is hard too. Why is that"
Hello doods, temperature affects the feel of memory foam. That could be a factor in this situation. Other than that, there is nothing that would have caused the topper to change it's feel – other than a firmer base, which may be the case with the new mattress. Have a great day!
"Will this fold up on a sofa bed or does it need to be removed?"
Hello Who knows, it is not recommended that this be folded, it can be removed and loosely rolled if needed. Thanks for shopping with us!
"Is the mattress thickness (4-inch) measured including the cone height or excluding ?"
overall height including cones only has about an inch of solid foam which makes it rip easy if your over 220lbs. I already destroyed one after a year every cone was ripped
Hello Rache. That is Including the cone height. Please let us know if you have any further questions.
"Can a topper be used on a pull-out queen sofa bed, and if so, will everything fold up after use or will it have to be removed daily or as guests use/need?"
Hello reed martin, this item can be used with most pull-out sofa beds as well. Thank you for shopping with us.
"Do I just use a fitted sheet over it or should I purchase a special cover? Thank you."
Hello punkin11, this item can be used with a fitted sheet as well. Thank you for shopping with us.
"Can't decide between a Beauty Rest and Slumber Solutions topper!! Both are 4" memory foam, BOTH are rated almost exactly the same. One comes with a cover at $179, the other, no cover & on sale for $99! Any suggestions? Thanks!"
Hello Hollakerr, we can appreciate the fact you want a firsthand account of the product. You will receive an email notification every time you get a response. There are also plenty of reviews available for both products. Thank you for shopping with us.
I realize it's a late response, but I have purchased both and I like the Slumber Solutions better. The Beauty Rest is more firm, while the Slumber Solutions feels like it hugs the body better. I bought the Slumber Solutions for every bed in my house. Thought the Beauty Rest would be better because it cost more, so I purchased it for our main bed. I feel it was money wasted.
"what is a difference between king vs cal king????"
Hello msd, the cal king is usually longer. Please let us know if you have any further questions.
A Cal King is always longer and narrower than a standard king. These dimensions are industry standards arrived by agreements among manufacturers to assure consistency and fit of bedding with beds, bedframes, daybeds, etc.
"What does density have to do with comfort? I am looking for a topper that will sleep cool. If it is too soft I will sink in and be too warm."
Hello Pidge2, density merely describes the weight of the foam, not the amount of 'softness or support. Thank you for shopping with us.
"Does this memory topper have a cover? Thanks. Janet"
Hello palslat, the cover is not included with this mattress topper. Please let us know if you have additional questions. Thanks for shopping with us.
"The dimensions are a little smaller than a queen size mattress and it says that due to machine cuts actual size may vary. I've bought other mattress toppers that are way to small. Has anyone had a problem with this or is it pretty close? Should I buy a larger size and cut it down?"
Hello junkyack, we can appreciate the fact you want a firsthand account of the product. You will receive an email notification every time you get a response. Thank you for shopping with us.
"I bought this 4 inch topper and we have a queen bed. What size sheets will fit this right? Right now, the sheets we have keep popping up so I'm really wanting to get a bigger set."
Hello afrankl2, you will need to measure the height of your mattress and topper to get the appropriate depth of sheets. You can search "Deep pocket sheets" on Overstock.com to find what you are looking for. Have a great day!
Does it allow air circulation so it doesn't get hot with heat build up?
Shopping Tips & Inspiration
How to Recycle a Memory Foam Mattress Pad
How to Recycle a Memory Foam Mattress Pad from Overstock.com. Our guides provide customers with information about how to recycle memory foam mattress pads.
FAQs about Memory Foam Mattress Toppers
FAQs about Memory Foam Mattress Toppers from Overstock.com. Our guides provide customers with answers to frequently asked questions about memory foam mattress toppers.
How to Pick Memory Foam Mattress Topper Thickness
A memory foam mattress topper can transform the feel of your bed, improving your sleep experience. Choosing the right topper thickness will keep you cradled and comfortable all night long. Use these suggestions to narrow down your options.
How to Clean a Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Cleaning your memory foam mattress topper is important. Shop and save money on the best mattress topper cleaning supplies at Overstock.com
How to Compare Memory Foam Mattress Toppers
Memory foam mattress toppers add softness to your mattresses. Shop and save money on the best mattress toppers at Overstock.com
Memory Foam Buying Guide
Memory foam is one of the most widely used bedding materials because of its comfort and support. Figure out what type of foam is right for your sleep paradise.
Best Reasons for Choosing Memory Foam Mattress Toppers
Foam bed toppers cost a fraction of the price of new mattresses. Shop and save money on the best foam bed toppers at Overstock.com
Memory Foam Mattress Topper Buying Guide
Buying a memory foam mattress topper is a great way to make your mattress more comfortable while adding the support your body needs. We'll help you decide which is right for you.
Unique Ways to Use a Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Unique Ways to Use a Memory Foam Mattress Topper from Overstock.com. This guide will give you great tips and ideas about using memory foam mattress toppers in your home.
Memory Foam Mattress Topper Fact Sheet
Memory Foam Mattress Topper Fact Sheet from Overstock.com. If you want to increase the comfort level of your bed without replacing your mattress, memory foam mattress toppers are a terrific solution.
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Shipping & Returns
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** Most Oversize orders are delivered within 1-4 weeks. Some orders may take 6 weeks to be delivered.
Slumber Solutions Highloft Supreme 4-inch Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Starting at: $59.99


text:
Friday, December 19, 2008
Delaware County was hit with a federal lawsuit yesterday claiming that its policy of refusing to return confiscated firearms unless the owners obtain a court order is unconstitutional.
Read Original at: Philadelphia Daily News (PA)
Legal & Legislation
Friday, January 13, 2017
On Monday, Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID) – joined by co-sponsors Sens. Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Rand Paul (R-KY) – introduced S. 59, the Hearing Protection Act of 2017 (HPA). Similar legislation was introduced in the ...
Thursday, January 19, 2017
Today, Senate Bill 12, legislation eliminating the requirement to obtain a permit in order to lawfully carry, passed the Senate without amendment, by a 13-10 vote. SB 12 will now go to the House of ...
Inspired, perhaps, by Oscar Wilde ("Moderation is a fatal thing. Nothing succeeds like excess"), Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson has announced two new sweeping gun control bills, with Sen. David Frockt (D-Seattle) and Rep. ...
Friday, January 20, 2017
Gun owners knew that Barack Obama would not leave quietly. The only question was what else was coming.
On January 3rd, Congressman Richard Hudson (R-N.C.8th) introduced H.R. 38, the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017, which simply allows lawful firearm carriers from any state to carry a concealed firearm in any other state. The bill ...
With the 2017 Indiana legislative session underway, we are happy to report that a number of pro-gun bills have been filed.
Earlier this month, Oregon Governor Kate Brown's Department of Administrative Services released a memorandum announcing a new policy prohibiting state employees from possessing a personal firearm in the workplace, even if they have a concealed handgun license. This policy strips ...
Tuesday, January 17, 2017
Tomorrow, January 18, the Senate Courts of Justice is expected to hear and possibly vote on several firearm-related bills.
On Thursday, the NRA-supported case Peruta v. California took an important step towards restoring the right to bear arms in California. The plaintiffs in the case, California gun owners and the California Rifle and Pistol ...
In 2013, the Kansas Legislature passed the Public Building Security Act, pro-gun legislation that amended the Personal and Family Protection Act.
Concealed and loaded guns OK in Yosemite
Established in 1975, the Institute for Legislative Action (ILA) is the "lobbying" arm of the National Rifle Association of America. ILA is responsible for preserving the right of all law-abiding individuals in the legislative, political, and legal arenas, to purchase, possess and use firearms for legitimate purposes as guaranteed by the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
Receive important and timely information in defense of your second amendment rights.
© 2017 National Rifle Association of America, Institute for Legislative Action. This may be reproduced. This may not be reproduced for commercial purposes. 11250 Waples Mill Rd. Fairfax, VA 22030 1-800-392-8683(VOTE)

subset: commoncrawl


text:
The Case Against High Stakes Testing
The materials selected for this page make the case against relying on test scores to make critical educational decisions about students or schools - or what is called high stakes testing. Common examples include retaining a child in grade or withholding a students high-school diploma solely on the basis their score on a test, or relying on test scores to determine whether a teacher or school should be sanctioned or rewarded.
A large body of evidence exists against using standardized tests for such decisions. New evidence is being collected as states and district increasingly use tests for such purposes. This page presents the arguments and evidence to help you build a case against high-stakes testing in your own community.
Be sure to check out:
- Back-To-School Report Tallies 2016 Testing Reform Victories
- Video of Karen Lewis at FairTest's 2015 Hero's In Education Award event
- FairTest's October 2014 Report: The Testing Resistance and Reform Movement: A FairTest Report
- New FairTest report - September 2014 - Testing Reform Victories - The First Wave
- FairTest, 12 other organizations, and prominent individuals have drafted the following a national Resolution on High-Stakes Testing. We call organizations and individuals to endorse it.
- FairTest's Lisa Guisbond testified on graduation exams before the Rhode Island legislature. To read her testimony, which has many useful citations, see here.
- New FairTest Fact Sheet "Racial Justice and Standardized Educational Testing" in PDF
- Monty Neill's article, "A Child Is Not a Test Score:
Assessment as a Civil Rights Issue," from the Fall 2009 issue of Root and
Branch, is avaiable here.
- Organizations and experts who oppose high-stakes testing
- FairTest Examiner, which has articles in every issue documenting the harm caused by high-stakes testing and the efforts to halt such testing.
- Testing Hurts Teaching and Learning, Examiner fall 2003
- "Many Children Left Behind," book on NCLB, reviewed in Summer 2004 Examiner.
- Links to other helpful resources for books, articles and other organizations
- The Case for Authentic Assessment explaining how other assessments and accountability systems can report on school progress and student achievement without resulting in the negatives outcomes found under high-stakes testing
FairTest Fact Sheets on:
- Limits of Standardized Tests for Assisting and Diagnosing Student Learning
- The Dangerous Consequences of High-Stakes Standardized Testing
- Norm-Referenced Achievement Tests
- Criterion- and Standards- Referenced Tests
- Multiple Choice Tests
- What's Wrong with Standardized Tests?
- The Testing Explosion
Additional resources created by FairTest, ARN and others
- Momentum Grows Against Zero Tolerance Discipline and High-Stakes Testing
- FairTest and five other groups wrote this position paper on NCLB/ESEA
and the school-to-prison pipeline, which looks at testing, "zero
tolerance" and other problems, and makes recommendations.
- "Test, Punish, and Push Out: How Zero Tolerance and High-Stakes Testing Funnel Youth into the School to Prison Pipeline," an Advancement Project report.
- Chicago School Reform: Lessons for the Nation.
- High-Stakes Testing Flunks , op-ed by Monty Neill for USA Today, September 7, 1999.
- Parents Guide to Testing, Chicago Illinois, In English and En Espanol- Parents United for Responsible Education, Chicago, Illinois
- North Dakota Study Group on Evaluation website contains information by and about this "diverse network of progressive educators dedicated to advocacy for useful, fair, and democratic ways to document and assess children's learning."
- Standards and Assessments Q & A Advocates for Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin
- Parents Say No to Proficiency Test Parents against Ohio Proficiency Tests,
- The Truth About The SOLs, Parents United Across Virginia United to Reform SOLs
- Massachusetts Coalition for Authentic Reform in Education's alternative plan for authentic assessment and accountability.
- Flyer by the Coalition for Fair and Authentic Assessment: What You Need to Know About California's High Stakes Tests
- Performance assessment schools meet high standards without high-stakes regents tests. That's the truth. So what are the myths? From 28 schools across New York state.
- Link to Children's Defense Fund fact sheet on high school graduation tests (in pdf). http://www.childrensdefense.org/site/DocServer/exitexams.pdf?docID=457
- This (PDF) article finds in New Jersey tests at grades 3 and 4 lack adequate reliability and validity; districts should be cautious in their use.
- Piece by Angela Engel titled: Exposing the Myth of High Stakes Testing.
- "Our Impoverished View of Educational Reform" by David C. Berliner - Teachers College Record, August 02, 2005
- The Center on Education Policy has published an article (PDF) on the effects of Exit Exams on schools and graduation.
- Multiple Measures for Graduation
- The Inevitable Corruption of Indicators and Educators Through High-Stakes Testing by Sharon L. Nicols and David C. Berliner, available from Arizona State University.
- "Adios, Escuela," on Boston's dismal Hispanic graduation rate and the failure of authorities to do anything about it, by David S. Bernstein in the Boston Phoenix.
- "Black and Failing," a fine article on the black-white "achievement gap" by David Bernstein in the Boston
- Opening Exercises -- Or Never-Never Land, by Wendy Darling.
- Standardized Testing in Schools by Peggy Patten Parent News for January-February 2000 Feature
- All Children Need More Than Test Taking Skills. Pet Burials, For Instance. The Details of Life, by Jonathan Kozol, The Nation, May 2000 (search the Nation's web)
- Standardized Tests Flunk Common Sense 101, by Caroline Grannan for the San Francisco Examiner, August 23, 1999]
- Why Bad Reforms Won't Give Us Good Schools, By Larry Cuban, American Prospect, January 12, 2001,
- Why So Many Exams? A Marxist Reponse, by Bertell Ollman
- Test Case: Hard Lessons from the TAAS by Jake Bernstein, The Texas Observer
- Report on Results of Texas Accountability, Center for Education, Rice University, Shows graduation rates down and dropout rates rising at end of five year, high-stakes TAAS testing.
- An Analysis of Some Unintended and Negative Consequences of High-Stakes Testing
by Audrey L. Amrein and David C. Berliner. This study examined the unintended consequences of high-stakes tests in 16 states that have implemented high-stakes graduation exams. In those states the authors found increased dropout rates, decreased graduation rates, and higher rates of younger people taking the GED equivalency exams. Report and appendix total 138 pages in two sections. Scroll Down the page at the link to find it.
- Taught to Remove All Thought denounces the effects of testing on writing http://www.lessonplans.com/commentary.htm and letters on this column are at http://www.sptimes.com/2002/07/14/news_pf/Perspective/Formula_writing_teach.shtml
The harmful impact on curriculum and instruction
- Will More Testing Improve Schools? FairTest
- How Standardized Testing Damages Education, FairTest
- The Children's Defense Fund fact sheet on high school graduation tests (in pdf). http://www.childrensdefense.org/site/DocServer/exitexams.pdf?docID=457
- "Meeting the Standards Will Not Guarantee Success" Arnold Packer, SCANS 2000 Center, The Johns Hopkins University, The High School Assessments Forum, Tuesday, October 21, 2003
- The Human Face of the High-Stakes Testing Story, by Linda Nathan, Phi Delta Kappan, April 2002
- Emphasis on Testing Leads to Sacrifices in Other Areas, by Alfie Kohn, USA Today, August 23
- Raising the Scores, Ruining the Schools by Alfie Kohn
- Standards and Multiculturalism, Rethinking Schools article, Spring 2002
- Standards Yes, Standardization No by Deborah Meier
- "How to Improve High-Stakes Test Scores Without Really Improving" by Richard L. Allington, fact sheet
- Never Mind the Inventive Curriculum. One Test Fits All. By Michael Winerip, New York Times, Nov. 8, 2001
- Bamboozled By The Texas Miracle By Teddi Beam-Conroy (In Rethinking Schools Archives, Volume 16, No. 1 - Fall 2001)
Widening the gap: How high-stakes testing exacerbates inequities between wealthy and poor communities; white and students of color
- Classroom Caste System, an op-ed from the April 9, 2007 Washington Post.
- National Latino Education Research Agenda Project (NLERAP), comprised of many prominent Latino educators, has produced an Agenda for educational improvement that includes strong language on standardized testing. http://nlerap.hunter.cuny.edu/draft-agenda.html
- How the Stanford 9 Institutionalizes Unequal Education, by Alex Caputo-Perl for the Los Angeles Times, May 2, 1999
- The Human Cost of Over-reliance on Tests by Adria Steinberg, Harvard Education Letter, March/April 1999
- Racial Bias Built into Tests -FairTest Examiner article
- Poverty has a Powerful Impact on Educational Attainment, or, Don't Trust Ed Trust
Stephen Krashen, Substance (in press) Critique of recent Ed Trust Report
- Standards, Testing, and Race (In the Rethinking Schools book "Failing Our Kids: Why the Testing Craze Won't Fix Our Schools")
- The Relative Equitability of High-Stakes Testing versus Teacher-Assigned Grades: An Analysis of the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS), Graduate school researchers Robert T. Brennan, James S. Kim, Melodi Wenz Gross and Gary N. Siperstein; Harvard Educational Review
- High Stakes Tests May Worsen Educational Outcomes for Minorities and Girls" The Relative Equitability of High-Stakes Testing versus Teacher-Assigned Grades: Robert T. Brennan, James S. Kim, Medlodie Wez-Gross and Gary N. Siperstien Harvard Educational Review
Dropouts, grade retention and high-stakes testing - what you should know
- NEW 2016 FACT SHEET: Time to Abolish High School Graduation Tests
- 2016 Graduation Test Update: States That Recently Eliminated or Scaled Back High School Exit Exams
- Low Test Scores + High Retention Rates = More Dropouts by C. Thomas Holmes - excellent review of testing, retention and dropouts; reports most developed nations don't retain students.
- Retention in kindergarten hurts kids according to research summarized in this news release from American Educational Research Assn.
- One-Third of a Nation: Rising Dropout Rates and Declining Opportunities, by Paul Barton (PDF)
- The National Association of School Psychologists has an excellent position paper on grade retention. http://www.nasponline.org/information/pospaper_graderetent.html
- First, Do No Harm: A Response to the Proposed New York City Third Grade Retention Policy
- The Children's Defense Fund fact sheet on high school graduation tests (in pdf).
- Fact sheet on testing and grade Retention
- Dropouts And Testing in MA - FairTest Press Release
- National Study on Minority Dropouts http://www.ResultsForAmerica.org.
- MCAS: Making the Massachusetts Dropout Crisis Worse. FairTest/Coalition for Authentic Reform in Education, Sept. 2000
- Droppout numbers for Boston 1996 - 2000
- Chicago Retention Policy Still a Failure. The Chicago Consortium and School "Update: Ending Social Promotion is available at www.consortium-Chicago.org Comments on the CCSR report by DFC and Professor Robert Hauser of University of Wisconsin are available at www.dfc1.org
- The Myth of the Texas Miracle by Boston College Professor Walt Haney
- The Case Against TAAS - FairTest Examiner article outlining case including data about dropouts/retention in Texas due to TAAS testing
- Exit exams can catch kids in dropout crunch By Donna Harrington-Lueker 11/30/01 USA Today
The harmful impact on bilingual education students and English language learners
- FairTest bibliography on bilingual ed and testing
- Assessment of ELL Students under NCLB: Problems and Solutions.
- The Harmful Impact of the TAAS System of Testing in Texas: Beneath the Accountability Rhetoric," Linda McNeil and Angela Valenzuela, Raising Standards or Raising Barriers? Inequality and High Stakes Testing in Public Education, edited by Gary Orfield and Mindy Kornhaber (Harvard Civil Rights Project, 2001).
- Second-Language Literacy Instruction - A Position Statement of the International Reading Association FairTest bibliography on bilingual ed and testing?
- High Stakes Testing and English Language Learners Denise McKeon NEA Teaching and Learning November 2000
- API Test Is an Injustice To Students With Limited English Eugene E. Garcia, San Francisco Chronicle, Monday, January 31, 2000
- Proposition 227 and Skyrocketing Test Scores: An Urban Legend from California; by Stephen Krashen
Testing Special Needs Students: Inclusion into flawed assessment policies and exams does more harm than good
- Study shows harmful consequences to students with disabilities from high-stakes testing
Testing the Disabled, FairTest Examiner, 1998
- Web site of state-by-state department rules on testing of special needs students: http://www.reedmartin.com/stateaccommodationspolicies.htm
- FairTest Examiner article about oregon lawsuit filed against state on behalf of students
Pitfalls of relying on tests to measure and reward teachers and schools
- MCAS Alert, June 2002. FairTest research report on the problems with using MCAS tests to judge school quality.
- Lake Woebeguaranteed: Misuse of Test Scores in Massachusetts, Part I by Walt Haney, Boston College, EPAA,Volume 10 Number 24.
- High-Stakes Test-Based Accountability Policies: Problems and Pitfalls by Anne Wheelock
- Test Scores Unreliable Means of Assessing School Quality A FairTest report analyzing the test score patterns of a handful of Massachusetts schools illustrates that test scores are not a unreliable indicator of school quality.
- School Rankings Resemble Lottery FairTest Examiner, Summer 2001
- California Teachers Reject Testing 'Bribes' Rethinking Schools, Volume 16, No. 3 - Spring 2002
- Performance Pay for Teachers: The Standards Movement's Last Stand? Of all the consequences of the standards movement, pay-by-performance will be the most destructive. by Maurice Holt, Phi Delta Kappan, December 2001. (Search www.pdkintl.org to get a copy)
- "How to Improve High-Stakes Test Scores Without Really Improving" by Richard L. Allington, fact sheet
Why so called "value-added" testing schemes don't add value
- Value Added, Value Lost? FairTest Examiner article by Gerald Bracey
Also see these two Rethinking Schools articles: http://www.rethinkingschools.org/val144.htm
Why Federally Mandated Testing won't work to improve education in the nation
- FairTest page on NCLB
- Leaving Children Behind - How "Texas-style" Accountability Fails Latino Youth, edited by Angela Valenzuela is now available from SUNY PressSee an exerpt here.
- Measuring Learning Does Not Improve Learning FairTest Fact Sheet
Testing and Young Children
- Alliance for Childhood position statement on high-stakes testing.
- Achievement Tests for Young Children FairTest
- Readiness Tests FairTest
- 3 NAEYC Position Statements
- http://www.naeyc.org/resources/position_statements/pstestin.htm
- http://www.naeyc.org/resources/position_statements/pstest98.pdf
- http://www.naeyc.org/resources/position_statements/psredy98.htm
Scoring, reporting and other errors made by testing companies in high-stakes testing situations
- We Hung the Most Dimmwitted Essays on the Wall A Story from Salon Magazine on the test scoring industry.
- The Examiner, There are many more stories on test company errors available by searching FairTest's Examiner.
Analysis of the content and questions of various tests:
Regents Exam Review Panel, English Language Arts, Report of Proceedings
Hosted by Rockefeller Foundation
- Some states provide sample test questions from their state education departments online. Check our state-by-state list of resources to find and view the states that provide this.
Student voices on testing
- Why the MCAS Hurts, Brookline Tab -- May 8, 2002, Guest Commentary, by Dana Monnier, Emma Stoskopf-Erlich, Riva Lencer, Irene Behrman,Adam
Stoler, Alessandro Ascherio
- What Can Student Drawings Tell Us About High-Stakes Testing in Massachusetts?
- "Student Views of TAAS" - Professors at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi publish student essays (with their permission) about their experience with high-stakes TAAS exams on the web. To read the essays go to http://comppile.tamucc.edu/TAAS/
- Standardized Minds, a poem by By Niles Xi-An Lichtenstein, student of Youth Speaks
- No is the Right Answer, by Eleanor Martin, Student, Cambridge Rindge and Latin, Cambridge, MA
- Student Coalition for an Alternative to MCAS (SCAM)
We are a growing statewide organization of students committed to: Raising awareness of the problems with the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS), Promoting an alternative to the MCAS and Taking action to address the negative effects of an inadequate and harmful assessment system
- Students Against Testing
Students Against Testing was created to be a strong force against the score-obsessed education machine known as standardized testing. At the same time, SAT also exists as an advocate for bringing positive, creative and real-life learning activities into the schools.
- The Organized Students of Chicago. Contact by email at firstname.lastname@example.com
High-stakes and other "incentives" may not motivate, will discourage many students
- Student Self-Portraits as Test-Takers: Variations, Contextual Differences, and Assumptions about Motivationby Anne Wheelock, Damian J. Bebell, and Walt Haney
- Punished by Rewards, The Trouble with Gold Stars, Incentive Plans, As, Praise, and Other Bribes. By Alfie Kohn, 1999.
Test pressure results in physical and psychological harms for some children
- See Alliance for Childhood statement by leading child development specialists and educators
- See section above.
- Quote from Sacramento Bee, "Test-related jitters, especially among young students, are so common that the Stanford-9 exam comes with instructions on what to do with a test booklet in case a student vomits on it." March 14, 2002
High-stakes testing impedes local decision making
- High Stakes vs. Democracy by Ken Jones, Examiner, Fall 2000
Follow this link to watch, read reviews of and order video presentations.
Additional Items on The Case Against High Stakes Testing:
- Home
- Public School
- College Admissions
- Newsletter
- Fact Sheets
- Act Now
- News
- Other Resources
More than 900 four-year colleges and universities do not use the SAT or ACT to admit substantial numbers of bachelor-degree applicants.
See the searchable database of schools.


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Majestic Triple Peak Men's Baltimore Orioles Chris Davis Black T-Shirt
Product Information:
Emulate your favorite player when you wear the Majestic® Men's Baltimore Orioles Chris Davis #19 T-Shirt for every game this season. Designed in the same fashion as Davis' jersey, this super-soft tee features the team wordmark and player name and number in high density, textured graphic print. Prove your devotion to the Orioles when you wear the Majestic® Chris Davis T-Shirt from the Home Opener through October.
- Triple Peak t-shirt inspired by player's actual jersey
- High density textured team wordmark and player name and number
- Officially licensed by the MLB®
- Fabric: 100% ring spun cotton
- Majestic
Country of Origin: ImportedWeb ID: 21296116
Customer Reviews:
Rated 5 out of 5�by 1 reviewer.
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Amyloidosis is a group of rare diseases. It involves deposits of a protein called amyloid. These proteins build up in body tissues and organs. There are three major forms:
The causes of amyloidosis vary in its different forms:
Men older than 40 are at increased risk for primary and secondary amyloidosis. People who are of Portuguese, Swedish, or Japanese descent are at increased risk for hereditary amyloidosis.
Factors that may increase your risk of getting amyloidosis include:
Symptoms for all forms of amyloidosis include:
The extent of the disease and the type of organ affected determine the symptoms. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe. The following is a list of additional symptoms as they relate to specific body systems:
You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. The doctor may refer you to specialists.
Your bodily fluids and tissues may be tested. This can be done with:
Images may be taken of your bodily structures. This can be done with:
Your nerves may be examined. This can be done with nerve conduction velocity.
There is no cure for any form of this disease. The main goal is to treat an underlying condition. Treatment to decrease or control symptoms and complications has been only slightly successful. Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Treatment options include:
Chemotherapy is the use of a series of drugs. It may be given by pill, injection, or via a catheter. In this case, it is used to help improve symptoms and slow the progression of the disease by interrupting the growth of the abnormal cells that produce amyloid protein. It is used in:
Stem cells are immature cells. They are transplanted to replace damaged or diseased cells. This process is used in:
This is the removal of a diseased organ and transfer of a healthy donor organ to the recipient. In these cases, it is the liver or kidney. It may be done in all major forms of amyloidosis. In the case of hereditary amyloidosis, it may stop the progression of the disease.
This is the removal of the spleen. This can decrease the production of amyloid. It may be done for primary and secondary amyloidodis.
Treatments for all forms of amyloidosis include:
There is no known way to prevent amyloidosis.
Amyloidosis Foundation
Office of Rare Diseases Research—National Institutes of Health
Canadian Organization for Rare Disorders
The Kidney Foundation of Canada
Amyloid light chain (AL) amyloidosis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed. Updated April 2, 2014. Accessed August 7, 2015.
Amyloidosis. Cleveland Clinic website. Available at: http://my.clevelandclinic.org/disorders/diseases/amyloidosis/can_overview.aspx . Accessed August 19, 2014.
Merlini G, Bellotti V. Molecular mechanisms of amyloidosis. N Engl J Med. 2003; 349:583.
National Organization for Rare Disorders. A physician's guide to amyloidosis. National Organization for Rare Disorders website. Available at: https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/amyloidosis/. Published 2010. Accessed August 19, 2014.
Westermark P, Benson MD, Buxbaum JN, et al. Amyloid: toward terminology clarification. Report from the Nomenclature Committee of the International Society of Amyloidosis. Amyloid 2005; 12:1.
What is amyloidosis? Boston University website. Available at: http://www.bu.edu/amyloid/about/what/. Accessed August 19, 2014.
Last reviewed August 2014 by Michael Woods, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.


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Hi Bellas,
I'm back with another celebrity inspired tutorial. I've run across a picture of the actress Mila Kunis a few times and have loved this one makeup look.
To see my tutorial, click here!
Check out my video tutorial!
I went a little more natural with my looks, but if you want it super smokey just pack on more color. I think this look is very wearable for a date or even for work (minus the falsies, lol).
The Final Look!
Here's What I Used (All Palladio unless otherwise mentioned):
herbal primer - foundation
herbal liquid foundation in honey beige
herbal liquid concealer in banana
Eve Pearl salmon concealer in tan
Ben Nyte Banana powder
luminous bronze - mosaic
herbal blush - choc-au-lait
tinted lip balm - champagne
lipstick - smokey rose
retractable eyeliner in black
herbal eyeshadow trio in baked plums and caffe late
brow pencil in dark brown
Ardell 107 falsies
I filmed another video where I reviewed all of the products from Palladio. It's also going to be combined with a huge giveaway. Stay tuned!
Meanwhile, you can check out these products at www.palladiobeauty.com or at Sally Beauty stores and online.
Ciao bellas!
FTC Disclosure: I received this product for review. I am not affiliated with the company and not paid. These are my honest thoughts.
Atlanta Makeup Artist
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Celebrity Inspired Makeup - Mila Kunis Look Featuring Palladio Cosmetics
Posted by MakeupByRenRen at 9:36 AM
Labels: celebrity makeup
4 comments:
- Stavroula said...
Awwww great look! I love it!! :) Btw you look amazing with longer hair! ;)
- June 22, 2010 at 10:05 AM
- chibi said...
Very pretty look.
And your hair is looking really healthy and strong.
- June 22, 2010 at 12:10 PM
- Envelope said...
prettyy!! BTW what contacts are those on? They look so nice :)
xoxo, Penelope
- June 22, 2010 at 3:56 PM
- Jenn said...
- June 22, 2010 at 6:22 PM
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


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Muffin-topped winter beef stew
Nutrition and extra info
- Freezable
Nutrition: per adult serving
- kcal847
- fat39g
- saturates14g
- carbs82g
- sugars0g
- fibre10g
- protein46g
- salt2.81g
For the stew
- 500g braising steak, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 tbsp plain flour, seasoned with pepper and a little salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Olive oilol-iv oyl
Probably the most widely-used oil in cooking, olive oil is pressed from fresh olives. It's…
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
Onions are endlessly versatile and an essential ingredient in countless recipes. Native to Asia…
- 450g carrot, cut into chunks
The carrot, with its distinctive bright orange colour, is one of the most versatile root…
- 2 large parsnip, cut into chunks
The fact that the parsnip is a member of the carrot family comes as no surprise - it looks just…
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tbsp sundried or regular tomato paste
- 300ml red wine or extra stock
- 450ml vegetable stock
For the topping
- 225g plain flour
- 3 tsp baking powder
Baking powderbay-king pow-dah
Baking powder is a raising agent that is commonly used in cake-making. It is made from an alkali…
- 140g cheddar, coarsely grated
Once cheddar was 'Cheddar', a large, hard-pressed barrel of cheese made by a particular…
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Olive oilol-iv oyl
Probably the most widely-used oil in cooking, olive oil is pressed from fresh olives. It's…
- 150ml milk
One of the most widely used ingredients, milk is often referred to as a complete food. While cow…
Heat oven to 150C/fan 130C/gas 2. Toss the beef in seasoned flour. Heat the oil in a large flameproof casserole. Fry the beef over a high heat until browned all over – it's easiest to do this in batches. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Add 2 tbsp water and the onion to the pan, stir well over a medium heat, scraping up the crusty bits from the bottom of the pan. Lower the heat and fry gently for 10 mins, stirring occasionally until the onions have softened.
Tip in the carrots, parsnips and bay leaf, then fry for 2 mins more. Return the beef to the pan, stir in the tomato paste, wine if using, and stock, then bring to the boil. Cover and cook in the oven for 1¾-2 hrs until the meat is tender. Can be made up to 2 days ahead or frozen for up to 1 month. Defrost thoroughly in the fridge before topping and baking. Take out of the oven and increase the temperature to 190C/fan 170C/gas 5.
To make the topping, sieve the flour and baking powder into a bowl and add half the cheese. Mix olive oil and milk, then stir into the flour to make a soft, slightly sticky dough. Add more milk, if necessary. Spoon the dough over the meat and vegetables, sprinkle with the remaining cheese and bake for about 15 mins until golden, risen and cooked through.
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Comments, questions and tips
Comments (146)
My only changes to the recipe were 400g beef and I was out of bay leaves so used bouquet garni instead. I accidentally missed the bit of the recipe where you remove the beef and set aside, so cooked it longer along with the onions and veg. It don't think it did any damage. We really like the casserole and I don;t agree with some of the other comments - the sauce wasn't thick but not watery. With the beef left in I was constantly scraping the bottom of the pan to lift of the crispy bits so maybe that added body. Not sure, but if I made it again I wouldn't change the recipe. My only issue was the muffin top. I used a huge casserole dish and because it's so sticky, I couldn't flatten the dough enough to cover the stew. It was fine as an island in the middle but it grew a lot in the oven and was out of proportion to the casserole, and is really filling. I'd skimped on beef and used an 11 inch pot so I'm not blaming the recipe, just will have to be more thoughtful about ratios next time if I still don't own a smaller casserole dish.
I made this recipe for the first time tonight..I cooked it for 2 hours and I took some comments on board as too much liquid so I added 400ml beef stock and 200ml red wine, looked great and just right amount of liquid and thickness, I made up the muffin and did not look enough to cover, so I took notice of another comment and made double! Well that was way too much! Had more muffin than stew and all my stew had dried out :(. Will make again as wqs very tasty, but add the liquid and muffin quanity as stated. Or make muffin seperate then place on top anyone done that?
Just made and eaten and whilst it was very tasty, the recipe requires some adjustment. As others have said, the consistency was far too thin, so I added 3 heaped tsp of corn flour, mixed to a paste with red wine, and stirred through before adding the muffin topping. The topping needed more milk. I also added thyme to the topping, but this was just out of choice - I'm sure it would have been fine without.
Fried some lardons in the casserole first, then fried the floured steak in the bacon fat, substituted some of the orange carrots for yellow/purple ones and a leek (didn't have parsnips), splashed the onions with red wine rather than water, 1tbsp sundried paste, 1tbsp tomato puree, 2 bay leaves, fresh rosemary & thyme in a bouquet and 45 mins into the oven time I tasted the sauce & added some balsamic vinegar and some tangy lingonberry sauce and a tbsp dark brown sugar. Divine! Made to freeze & will make the topping when this is on the menu. Can't wait! (Saving the 5th star for the topping!)
Made this loads of times now, and it's been great every time. It takes quite a while to prepare but it's worth it. I don't put the muffin top on as a 'top'; I shape spoonfuls of the mixture into rough dumpling shapes and drop them on top of stew then bake as per recipe. This is definitely one of our family favourites! I normally feed 2 adults and 2 children and freeze an extra portion (without the muffin/dumplings).
Questions (2)
Tips (1)
This is a stew that can 'Stand Alone' without the topping.(ie accompanied with mash etc.) The Muffin top? Rather dense. My husband loves 'stodge' and this went down very well with him'. I enjoyed but would prefer a lighter topping. I found it difficult to spread thinly. Any ideas please as husband wants seconds!? How can I make this a lighter topping? any ideas ?


text:
full size
Product Details
This version of the Ludlow sportcoat is woven in cotton twill from a renowned mill in Japan and is unconstructed—in other words, it's made without any of the internal canvasing and padding that give your suit jackets their precise silhouettes. This also means it's lighter, more casual and ideal for warm weather. It's the kind of jacket that you throw over an armchair rather than put on a hanger, but still looks polished.
Size & Fit Details


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What you need to know about the intimacy-autonomy scale and how it might be affecting your current relationship
Under 18? Stop listening now and visit http://www.scarleteen.com
1:00 Announcements
- The Poly Weekly Android app has been pulled from the Android marketplace. We're working to replace it, but in the meantime, it can be purchased from Amazon.
- H Opportunity provides support to those with HSV and the people who love them. Use discount code MINX for $5 phone support or visit Herpes Opportunity, Herpes Life, the free disclosure ebook, the virtual support group, the forum, the blog or the iTunes podcast.
3:55 Interview: Kathy Labriola describes the intimacy-autonomy scale
Kathy Labriola, a poly counselor, nurse and hypnotherapist and author of Love in Abundance: A Counselor's Advice on Open Relationships, shares her insights based on the intimacy-autonomy scale and how mismatches can cause misunderstandings in relationships. Need more autonomy and independence but matched with a partner with a higher need for attention and intimacy? Good advice all around. Find the book at Greenery Press or at the Stockroom (better than Amazon for authors!)
17:30 Happy Poly Moments
- A listener writes in to share a Happy Poly Moment—discovering an old friend is actively poly: "It was so NICE to find someone "real", someone I have known for years, to whom I had a relation out of the web or a meetup thing, who at least new what polyamory was… for the first time in years, we could talk with other people, face to face, about our opinions and experiences. Priceless."
- MG tells of running home to his lovely fiancée to tell her his girlfriend just said she loved him: "When I think back three years ago to the beginning of our poly adventure I couldn't have imagined this. It makes all of the work that my fiancée and I put into working on or communication and jealousy issues (mostly me) worth it."
20:45 Feedback
- Scott, a listener in Australia, found us through Google+! And gives props to the HSV blues episode: "After contracting HSV from my first serious primary partner, I struggled a bit personally with it, and with what that meant about me and my lifestyle choice, and felt my ex's condemning voice in the back of my mind. So it was refreshing to hear it put into an appropriate perspective."
- Gryphon writes in that Poly Weekly has taught him to be unafraid of asking for help and support and suggests the antithesis to NRE—Break Up Brain?
28:15 Thanks
Welcome Robin, Ryan and Nomputers to the Poly Weekly Playmates! And thanks to Jim and Bill for their donations to keep us running!
29:00 Wrapup
Questions? Comments? Feedback? Email email@example.com or call the listener comment line at 206-202-POLY. And hey, why not attach an audio comment to that email? 🙂 Check out PolyWeekly at Blubrry.com. Share this with a friend or write an iTunes review!


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Here's how RW members rated this race in the past (584 votes).
In short: Good for the first timersIn full: Back in 2004 this was my first half marathon and this year I came back with my Dad and best friend who were also running their first half. It is well organised and well attended. A good first time event with adequate drinks stations, Lucozade and a goodie bag. As usual the weather was horrid and driving to and fro was a nightmare through bad traffic on both the M1 (up) and M40 (back).For me the event was slightly marred by the rudeness of some runners, elbowing and not looking where they were going then not appologising. It's time that big races took a leaf out of the Tri book and banned iPods. They're not needed and detract from the atmosphere and certainly contribute to inconsiderate behaviour.All said, Dad and Andy loved it and it's beeen fun to see them join in the bragging...Date of review: March 23, 2007
In short: Yet again a well organised race. Shame about the weather!Date of review: March 23, 2007
In short: Very boring race because spectators are very restricted to where they can go.In full: The pre-race pack was excellent, with a kit bag and event magazine giving detailed information and advice on what to expect on the day. However, it didn't say to allow between 15 and 20 minutes to get from the car park to the circuit. Those people turning up late were definately cutting it close. A couple in front of me had brought their dog with them to enjoy the day out only to be told at the gate that dogs weren't allowed. No-where in the pre-race magazine, or around the circuit does it say dogs aren't allowed. Pit garages acted as kit bag holding areas and these were clearly marked with groups of race numbers. Start area was marked with race paces which was good. Viewing for spectators was poor generally with only the grandstand at the Start/Finish available for those poor people who braved the extreme weather (gales, hail, sun and driving sleet). I understand why spectators aren't allowed on the circuit when the F1 cars are zooming round, but surely there is less risk of a runner spinning out of control and plowing into the barrier??!! The course was wide so hardly got elbowed but some of the 'inner road' route had some tighter corners and you did have to position yourself in advance. The PA system was rubbish (not sure if this was due to the weather though) and you could hardly rely on it giving out key information. The finish was relatively well organised with funnels leading to ramps where a volunteer clipped off your timing chip. The volunteers handing out the goddie bags were back behind the barrier again (no doubt a Health and Safety point to ensure they didn't get struck by any out of control runners!) and runners had to drift their way back across the busy finish area to retrieve they bag. Kit bag retrieval was organised and the 15 minute walk back to the car then acted as part of the cool down routine so was actually quite welcome - despite the bracing winds. I set a PB at this race and was happy with the way I run in the awful conditions. Would I come back? Yes I would, I did enjoy it, I just felt for a race that was titled the London Half-Marathon, I would have expected it to be slighter better organised and for there to be more atmosphereDate of review: March 23, 2007
In short: Excellent organisation yet again. Great drinks stations and encouraging marshalls.Date of review: March 23, 2007
In short: One of the greatest feelings in the world is to complete the London Marathon within your goal.Loved every minute!In full: Apart from the birth of my kids,my 2 London marathons are my proudest moments in my life so far.When I visit London as a tourist I find myself saying"This is part of the Marathon course" on numerous occasions-I'm starting to bore myself!Date of review: March 22, 2007
In short: Bitterly cold on the day, but well worth itDate of review: March 22, 2007
In short: If you have not run it yet? Enter 2008 Great Day!!!In full: Upon arrival for the race getting out of the car the weather was bitterly cold with gale force winds and I did start to wonder What am I doing here?However I do have to applaud the organisers, Sponsors & volunteers for a fantastic day throughout!From the baggage hold area, the helpful enquiry staff to the marshalls and even to lady voluntarily handing out jelly babies during the race the organisation and efficiency was spot on!Despite Gale force winds, Sleet, hail, rain and sunshine the atmosphere was electric!I would recommend this race to anyone of any level for a great race day experience!Go for it & enjoy!Date of review: March 21, 2007
In short: Excellent except for the weather.In full: Really enjoyed this one. Marshalls were great in spite of the freezing conditions. Dry, well organised baggage store with reasonable amount of toilets both at start and finish but also around the course. Date of review: March 21, 2007
In short: A well organised race. A shame about the weather conditions.Date of review: March 21, 2007
In short: Flat and fast but the weather was a big factorIn full: Top notch organisation as you would expect. Date of review: March 21, 2007
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Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2017
Where Do You StandPosted Sunday, September 2, 2012, at 7:53 PM
In this world we must know who is our friend
So many players, liars, and those who pretend
Truth must be protected at any cost
So you ask the question, "Where do you stand?"
I will answer.....
I spend much time in darkness while others sleep
I also visit often with others at the Samaritan's well
Today I was with Lazarus and we shared a meal
The Word rightly divided will always multiply
I am the least of the brethren but GOD knows my name
Others see bad fruit but I think it needs more time
Discarded by man chosen of GOD
Such a simple question, "Where do you stand?"
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I have the heart of a poet, the eye of an artist, and dress like a bum. I am no one important. No title, no position, no authority. Just a normal person. But I know Jesus. And Jesus knows me. And this relationship has changed my life and continues to change my life. I have no desire to be known but great desire for others to know Jesus. I would like to blog about Jesus, christian living, church, hurting, hope. I do not want to lead this blog but follow it wherever it leads.
Hot topicsFocus On The Healer Not On The Hurt
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Empty Hands / I Have Nothing To Bring


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—Eric Hoffer, an American social philosopher, quoted from "The Secret of Happiness" in The Economist
Share Your Reflection

Oh, great, now they tell us! (and Buddhists will jump up
Oh, great, now they tell us! (and Buddhists will jump up and say, "We already knew that.")
I wonder how this squares with Maslow's theories of the hierarchy of needs, self-actualization being at the top. Are we just doomed to keep trying to be "fulfilled" and "happy"? To me, it seems like the rest of the world is simply too busy to worry about all this (as noted in the article in reference to Thailand), for better or worse.
I'm also going on the record as being happy.

I'll never forget a comparative literature professor my
I'll never forget a comparative literature professor my senior year of college summing up our discussion of Freud's Interpretation of Dreams by saying something like, "The unconscious tricks us into thinking we know what we want. But our desire never finds a real object to satisfy us. In the end what we REALLY want is to want."


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Top 10 reasons to go to the theater
Since this is my very first blog in the Rochester Young Professionals section of the Democrat & Chronicle, I thought it would be a good idea to start with my:
Top 10 reasons to go to the theater …
No. 10. More people attended Broadway theatre than attend sports events
It's true! According to "Theatre World", a book written by John Willis, it reported that more people attended Broadway theaters during the year than attended all the New York City sports events combined during the same period.
No. 9. Feeds the local economy
This is also my excuse for shopping! But that's another story; we need to keep America as the No.1 world economic leader. You can help by seeing a play or musical by visiting any one of the 22 theaters in and around Rochester near you. Log onto TheatreROCS.org and take a look at all of them and their current 2011-2012 season. Be sure to check it out!
No. 8. It's Interactive.
Not very many forms of leisure, unless of course they are sports related are interactive these days. Ironically, what many patrons tend to forget is how the performers on stage can see you as clear as day when you yawn, stretch or text your friends on your cell phones. So be careful when you laugh or don't laugh because the artist notices ALL these things. I will discuss the art of the ringing cell phone in the middle of a show on a later blog!
No. 7. Already in 3D!
Recently I noticed that Hollywood is producing more 3D movies and offering the sale of reusable, matching, three dimensional glasses. Naturally their hopes in doing so will increase sales with a different kind of an edge to the film, but in reality, theater has been around in 3D for years, all the way back to Ancient Greek times.
No. 6. Let's do it Live!
It's simply phenomenal to see something live and in real time as opposed to something taped. It tends to be more spontaneous and interesting when something goes wrong on stage. When the unexpected element allows the audience to feel the excitement and building anticipation involving what the artist may do next after such a turn of events. Most times the audience never even notices and the performance and it seems flawless.
No. 5. For the Cultural Experience
According to Wikipedia, the arts are a vast subdivision of culture, composed of many creative endeavors and disciplines. The arts encompass visual arts, literary arts and the performing arts – music, theater, dance and film, among others. With many government programs cutting grants for the arts, it is very important to show our support for what is actually accessible to us. The Rochester Arts Scene is truly alive and kicking so let's continue to show our support.
No. 4. A reason to make a night of it
When was the last time you went out to see a show? Fourth grade?! It is not, "What your grandmother loves to see" anymore. Playwrights are writing about intriguing subject matter told only from their unique perspective that blows Reality TV right out of the water! Try searching online for these shows: In the Next Room by Sarah Ruhl, or August: Osage County by Tracy Letts both geared toward a new kind of an audience.
No. 3. Great conversation at the dinner party
I believe it is always good to be the theater geek who watches more than just "GLEE" on television. Show people your theater-smarts and when you win that game of Trivial Pursuit, you can email me, treat me to a thirst quenching beverage, and brag all about it.
No. 2. It keeps romance in your relationship
If you happen to be reading this and are in a committed relationship, consider taking your spouse to the theater for some serious brownie points! Whether you have been together 6 years of 60 years your partner will fall in love with you all over again when you get those "extremely sought after" show tickets…just ask my husband!
And the No. 1 reason to go to the theater…
If you are a single man in Rochester searching for that special someone,
Just an FYI … Women dig it!


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Each year, I witness the same thing at the gyms; and influx of people signing up for memberships during the month of January and February. These individuals are armed with their New Year's Resolutions and ready to workout. They go nice and strong for about a month or two and then suddenly they start to drop off. I know people who pay for a gym membership but only use it 4 times a year! Why does this occur? These people have all the right intentions, but they don't have concrete goals.
This January, Shane Diet & Fitness Resorts is running a New Year's session just in time to help with those fitness and weight goals. With all the latest in fitness classes, nutrition education and cooking classes and behavior change group coaching, we are the perfect way to kick start your new healthy lifestyle. If you are not able to join us in the New Year, I have put together a short list that will hopefully not only help you set your goals, but also help you stick to them.
Short and long term goals– You may want to lose 50 pounds, but we have to look at the smaller, more attainable number first. Set smaller goals, say 5 or 10 pounds to start, and each time you achieve it you will feel much more rewarded as you will be achieving your goals right from the start.
Non-weight loss goals– Setting goals that are easily achieved will help keep you motivated and happy. Try something that you have never done before, Zumba, Yoga or maybe Kick boxing. Make the goal not only to try a class, but put a time frame on it to try a class by the end of the month… and then keep going!
Make your goals more specific– Instead of "take a yoga class," try "take yoga by January 5th." Instead of "do some strength training," try "hire personal trainer for three sessions to teach me strength training." The more specific you are about the goal, the more likely you are to do it and the easier it is to track your results.
Some is better than none– Are you the type of person who is of "All or Nothing" attitude? This is a great time to try and alter that way of thinking. Everyone has an off day. Even if you can only get to the gym to squeak out a simple 2 mile run or a ½ on the elliptical, it's better than doing nothing at all. Just pick up your routine tomorrow, without punishing yourself.
Tell everyone– Do you have a hard time holding yourself accountable? When you set your fitness goals, tell your friends and family. Social media such as Facebook is a great way to announce what your goals are and your friends will be there to cheer you on. Maybe you can inspire your friends and acquire a workout buddy!
Make an appointment– write your exercise time into your calendar on your phone or computer, and DON'T double book the appointment. This is your time to get healthy and fit!
Reward yourself– Don't punish yourself for goals you didn't achieve, rather reward yourself for the goals you DID achieve. Be careful here, don't reward yourself with food! Look towards your long term goals for reward ideas such as a new clothing for the new wardrobe you will have to buy after you lose the 50 pounds, or a manicure/pedicure to relax your tired feet from all the running on the treadmill you have been doing.
Try to be as organized as you can when planning you fitness schedule and don't feel funny about asking a trainer at your local gym for help. The more knowledge your have, the more armed for success you are. Happy New Year!


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Disturbed by Benghazi
Clayton Kleppen, Columbus
I think it is time to stop the chatter about if they covered up facts about the Benghazi incident. It is obvious they have lied about the facts. I feel "they" means President Obama, Hillary Clinton, Jay Carney and a few others. It seems we have too many foxes watching the chicken coop.
They have not made an honest attempt to find out the answers. I think we should go back to the incident when it happened and bring charges against the commander-in-chief for gross dereliction of duty, causing death to four patriotic Americans.
I find it very disturbing that the president, the secretary of state and other high-ranking officials took the night "off" and seem to have a severe case of amnesia when questioned about it, or more likely just simply lie about it.


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Authorities released some details but have no leads yet on a suspect.
By TAMARA LUSH
Published October 14, 2006
GREENACRES — The young family that was brutally murdered along Florida's Turnpike early Friday morning had just moved a few months ago from Texas to a quiet suburb in Palm Beach County.
They rented a white stucco home with pink trim and attracted little attention — until this week, when their bodies were discovered on a grassy shoulder of the turnpike.
The four were identified Saturday by authorities as 29-year-old Jose Luis Escobedo Jr., his wife, Yessica Guerrero Escobedo, 25, and their two sons, Luis Damian, 3, and Luis Julian, 4. Saturday was Jose's birthday.
Detectives think that the family and their killer were in the family's 1998 Jeep Cherokee, heading south on the turnpike sometime between 1:30 and 3 a.m. Friday. The killer shot the family on the side of the road in Port St. Lucie, about 30 miles north of their Palm Beach County home, then drove away. The victims appeared to be lying down or kneeling when they were shot.
No arrests had been made Saturday, and detectives were struggling to find a motive. A search warrant was issued for the family's home.
The crime has received nationwide attention due in part to one grim detail: Yessica Escobedo was found in a fetal position with her arms around her sons, as if she was trying to shield them, detectives said. Both adults suffered multiple gunshot wounds, and it was believed that the family knew their attacker.
"There was no attempt to flee, there was no attempt to fight back," said Ken Mascara, the sheriff of St. Lucie County.
The St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office is investigating the crime, with some help from the Brownsville, Texas, Police Department. On Saturday, officials released more information about the family and corrected some earlier announcements. They had previously said that the children were a boy and a girl — they were both boys — and that the Jeep was a two-door. It is actually a four-door, black Jeep with a temporary license plate of M952180.
The Jeep was still missing Saturday, said Mascara. Investigators were watching 480 hours of surveillance tapes from toll booths along the turnpike hoping to find clues.
They also sifted through trash cans along the turnpike looking for any evidence. Bullets found at the scene Friday also were being analyzed to see if the same kind had been used in any other crimes.
The Sheriff's Office also released several photos of the family, including pictures of the two boys smiling and laughing in front of a dinosaur exhibit.
Family members in Brownsville said the couple were high school sweethearts who married about three years ago and had no enemies when they set out in June for a new life in Florida.
"Everybody loves them," said Lisa Salazar, a cousin of Yessica Escobedo's. "They would do anything for anybody. There's not enough words — they were just funny, caring, very lovely people."
Sgt. Jim Manrrique of the Brownsville Police Department said that family members gave few details about the Escobedos' lives. Officials don't know where the couple worked or why they moved to Florida, and the family isn't saying.
"They don't know anything," said Manrrique. "Or they are not telling us anything."
Neighbors in Greenacres knew even less. Ron Vendetti said he saw Jose Escobedo outside late at night on his cell phone, and Escobedo would often leave and return in the wee hours. Vendetti said that the house the family lived in was a rental that cost $1,600 per month.
Few, if any, neighbors on the tidy street saw the mother or the children.
Seven other law enforcement agencies around the country are involved in the investigation, Mascara said. A search warrant was executed at the family's home in Palm Beach County. Investigators had received about 200 phone calls offering tips, the sheriff said.
Authorities have set up a tip hot line at (727) 462-3230 and 1-800-273-TIPS.
Times researcher John Martin and the Associated Press contributed to this report. Tamara Lush can be reached at 727-893-8612 or at firstname.lastname@example.com.
[Last modified October 14, 2006, 23:42:11]
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Welcome to our blog! Sit back, relax & enjoy reading our 'hot off the press' blog posts. We're obsessed with (yup, it's almost a problem :) finding out about the latest trends, cool new places and fun local tips. Whether it's a cute little cafe or a hot new club, you'll read about it here. P.S.: Don't be shy to speak up (this isn't high school!) - we LOVE getting comments.
Thanks a bunch for reading & hope to hear from you!
Best Places for an Outdoor Workout in Prague
Now that the weather is FINALLY nice (yes, it's getting a bit chilly at this time of the year, but at least the heat wave's O-V-E-R!), it's time to head out and enjoy the great outdoors. And no, we don't think "enjoy" is synonymous with "lie around" – in this case, we're talking about EXERCISING! Had you fooled, didn't we?
Although Prague is mainly known for its historical buildings (and much less for its parks and greenery), we found some pretty laid-back places where you can go for a walk, go jogging, go inline skating or biking. Yup, inline skating is quite big in Prague (didn't you know?). Seriously, we feel it's making a huge comeback… maybe you'll want to give it a try after reading this article? ;)
This is an inline skaters' paradise… Yes, this is THE real deal. The Ladronka park/circuit is close to Vypich and is around 4230 meters long. You don't even need your own inline skates – you can rent them straight on the spot! Now that's what we call customer service. :) The whole park is quite big and relaxing and it's the perfect spot to get away from all the Prague hullabaloo. Just be prepared to ride around the same circuit over and over…
Image source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/madciapka/
2.Sacre Coeur Park
If you're in the center of Prague and you want to go for a quick run and you don't constantly want to deal with the hordes of tourists driving you cuckoo, check out this small park located right above Anděl. It may not seem like the perfect work-out place at first glance, but running here is a bliss. If you live in Anděl or Smíchov, you'll love this little oasis (which has little to do with the busy Anděl area). BUT you can't bike or inline skate here (sorry – just warning ya!) This place is great for people who love to walk or run. Or do the whole Nordic walking thing. You know, that thing that no one would ever admit to doing.
This is yet another well-known and beloved inline/bike park and we can totes see why! The Praha.eu portal calls Stromovka Prague's answer to Central Park, and we can (kind of) see why. It's a huge (seriously.. pretty big by Prague standards!) public park full of greenery & trails that can be used as in line skate and bike lanes. It's a bit of an outdoors mecca in Prague-town so if you haven't been yet, MAKE IT RIGHT & visit Stromovka today!
Image source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/87520232@N03/
4.Letenské sady
Yet again another mecca… but hey, we gotta list the 'big boys' of outdoor work-out places as well! If you haven't heard of "Letná" then you've probably never been to Prague. You can go running, inline skating as well as biking here (using our uber cool rental bikes, of course ;)! And once you're done with all this strenuous activity, you can sit down in one of the nicest beer gardens in Prague & have a cold, cold beer. WIN and WIN!
Image source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/96264617@N08/
This little area which is located right on the bank of the Vltava river is part of the quite expansive 'Podolí-Zbraslav' cycle route. However, we picked out this (admittedly shortish) this small part of the cycle route as an excuse to mention other things that you may or may not come across here. Náplavka was bustling during the summertime but you can still have a beer here in August (on a boat, no less!), catch a live performance of a cool indie rock band or a crazy DJ and just sit by the river & chill. Why not rent a Green Lemon bike & check out Náplavka while it's still relatively warm outside? It's where all the cool cats hang out these days. :)
Image source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/medhius/


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Does my title herald another political treatise? Well it might, because that is the message of some politicians and pundits. It is also my personal message of the moment.
I write this on Friday afternoon of a week in which I can really see light at the end of this "tunnel summer."
Another school year is here and the excitement of new friends, teachers and new experiences are the first thought of all of us. I wanted to just mention something that I've been thinking about for a while.
It's not too late, although the classes have already begun. I hope each school and their teachers may see this column and will consider the possibilities that providing this one thing can change everyone's outlook for the day, month or year.
Special Session
The General Assembly was called in special session last week to undergo the arduous task of reapportionment. This is a process done every 10 years to redistrict the state to ensure equal representation based on current population.
By all accounts the Dawson County Treatment Court is a huge success. However, no one should be misled to think that the Drug Court is easy for the participants.
The requirements are stringent, there is no tolerance for noncompliance, all personal search rights are waived, and if the participant fails to meet the criteria and is removed from the program, they face full sentencing for the original drug charges.
The Georgia Constitution requires that the Legislature reapportion the General Assembly, as well as the Congressional seats in the year following the decade census. The Special Session started on Aug. 15, and already the House redistricting map has been introduced. You can see the proposed House and Senate maps at www.legis.ga.gov and click the link to the reapportionment maps.
The 2010 census found that 68 current House districts had too many people and 112 House districts had too few when compared to the ideal of 53,820 people.
"For the want of a nail, a shoe was lost ... all the way to a big battle loss, and all for the loss of a two-penny nail."
I don't remember the exact context of this old story, but I certainly understand the point: A seemingly small incident can have long-lasting results.
I have spent the last four months attending the Dawson County Board of Education work sessions, meetings, and retreats in an effort to learn what goes into budgeting for our school system.
I knew there were cuts to the state education budget, but didn't realize how drastic these cuts became when combined with property re-evaluation, the 70 and over exemption, and the 5 mills provision.
In light of the recent storms that we have had all over our area here, I would just like to say a huge "Thank You" to all of the people who helped to get our electricity back up and running.
On June 18, my power went off and was off for 18 hours, going into Sunday.
Candidly, I have never thought that the world revolved around me, not even my own personal world.
And certainly, during the past decade I have purposely limited participation in many areas that previously claimed much time and effort.
The Fourth of July or "Independence Day" is the national day of the United States set aside to commemorate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. This piece of paper declared our independence from Great Britain, and was signed by 56 great men who risked treason to create our great nation.
From that day on, the Fourth of July is one of, if not the most important day in American history.
On June 6 the Georgia Mountain Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America, a group of active, retired and former military officers, sponsored a golf tournament at Lake Lanier Islands for Wounded Warriors (wounded service members of any war or conflict) to raise funds for Homes for Troops, Fisher House and Wounded Warrior Transition and related programs.
The chapter will donate over $30,000 to those programs.
The House Science & Technology Committee, which I chair, spent two days in Atlanta listening to representatives of General Electric and Atlanta City Government talk about electric vehicles and how they could help Atlanta meet the clean air standards.
We attended technical and business workshops and got to drive and ride in the vehicles. Before discussing today's electronic vehicles, I will give a little historical background of their use in the United States.
In your June 8 article, "Legislation in the Wings," [by Rep. Amos Amerson] you alerted readers to many significant pieces of legislation that were not passed in the recent legislative session. I appreciated your publicity of these issues, and on a similar note, I would like to remind readers not to overlook the larger national pieces of legislation that have equal impact on our own backyards.
The Land and Water Conservation Fund is a great example of one of the important issues we are missing out on.
There is more to Girl Scouts than cookies and camping.
It is girl leadership, time management, public speaking, decision making, teamwork, money management and community service.
On a recent Friday morning I literally "picked" my way down my driveway. Thursday evening's storm had brought down dozens of limbs and twigs from the many trees which surround my house, and I could not drive over them.
But I wouldn't dare to complain. There have been so many weather-related events during the last year that it is difficult to name even the worst ones.
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The family of Gwinnett C. Holtzclaw would like to say thank you to the Silver City Fire Department, Dawson County Fire Department and to Lanier ...
God bless America and God bless Mount Paran Christian School in Cobb County. Before a recent football playoff game, every player on the team came ...
As far as I can tell, all the pundits and politicians agree on one thing: This has been and still is an unprecedented election year ...
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Secretary Clinton recently traveled to Mexico. During her travels, she received questions via text message. When asked if travel to Mexico were safe, Secretary Clinton answered:
The United States is not advising American citizens to stay away from Mexico. Millions of U.S. citizens safely visit Mexico each year, and we expect that to continue. We send out travel alerts all the time at this time of year just so that people are well informed and exercise good judgment. But we are not advising anyone to change their plans. In fact, I just advised one of my friend's daughters to have a wonderful time on her spring break in Mexico.
Read the Secretary's answers to other frequently asked questions about her trip to Mexico here.
Wendy in California writes:
I'm so glad that SecState Hillary said that we and Mexico are a family. That is such a profound foundation upon which to continue to build and to bring our mutual day-to-day hopes and dreams to longlasting & beautiful fruitions.
Angela in Washington writes:
Secretary Clinton is, in some ways, a diplomat. How well do you think her relations with other countries would be if she answered texts with stuff like: "Keep your kids out of Mexico at all costs!" No, she can't really do that. Having some friends who are Mexican natives, I know there ARE nice places in Mexico as well as some rough places, just like there are in any other country. But I think that Secretary Clinton is playing it safe.
Humberto in Mexico writes: