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They didn't learn the lessonPosted Wednesday, November 10, 2010, at 9:01 AM
The long national nightmare of the mid-term elections is now behind us -- and the 2012 presidential race has already begun. The voters just can't win.
Last week's election was a resounding victory for Republicans all across the country. In Idaho, if you had a "D" behind your name, it stood for "Dead." For the first time in memory, every state and federal position in Idaho is now held exclusively by one party.
At the national level, there are ominous signs that neither political party really understood what the voters were telling them.
Democrats seemed determined to retain Nancy Pelosi as their leader in the House of Representatives. Some Democrats want her to step down, but the GOP landslide in Congress probably eliminated the vast majority of anti-Pelosi Democrats, so our guess is, she'll keep the job. And in the Senate, Harry Reid is likely to stay on as the party's leader there, despite the fact he barely survived a challenge from one of the crazier candidates running this year. Had a truly viable candidate run against him, he'd be on the outside looking in today. Retaining party leadership that drew the ire of voters across the nation does not seem very smart.
But on the other side of the aisle, the Republicans seem poised to make the same kind of arrogant mistakes the Democrats did when they took over two years ago -- and which led to their demise.
The GOP leadership has indicated it's top priority will be making sure the president's agenda is blocked at every turn, in order to regain the White House in 2012. Get ready for even greater gridlock and partisan politics than we had over the last two years.
Jobs and the economy were not the highest priority on the agendas listed by any of the GOP leadership. Regaining power is their priority.
Apparently, nobody who got elected seemed to understand that the historic switch in power in the House reflected massive voter dissatisfaction with "the way things are."
Voters are tired of gridlock. They are tired of partisan politics. They want our elected leaders to get down to the business of finding ways to make things work, not just playing the power game. If those who came to power in the GOP landslide don't understand that, come 2012 all those gains could be reversed.
It's time our elected leaders, in both parties, started actually listening to what the citizens of this nation really want. But early indications are that neither one did.
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Actually the Dems took control of the senate and congress in January 2007. Pelosi and Reid have been leading both sides of the isle since 2007 so lets give them full credit for four years and not just two.
-- Posted by Trouble2011 on Wed, Nov 10, 2010, at 12:29 PM
Yes, but Bush and the so called republicans didn't help either. They went along with the fiscal irresponsibility so they are just as guilty. Don't get me wrong I voted for Bush but in this last election I voted for Reps, Dems, and Independents depending on their views and fiscal awareness. Imagine what would happen to you if you wrote checks that you didn't have the money to cover. No we need term limits, no retirement for 6-8 years of government SERVICE, no congressional heath care that is different from what they just passed, and no raises or perks. It should be regular people and not a career. And if you or your spouse's net worth is over 1 million dollars you are disqualified from office....once you hit that mark you are out. Can you say special election?
-- Posted by Trouble2011 on Wed, Nov 10, 2010, at 3:49 PM
Gosh Trouble, your profile pic is, well....troubling! Aside from that, I do believe that our constitution states that congress will not pass or enact any law that they themselves don't have to abide by. If our elected officials gave up all perks, including travel, accommodations, meals, parties, clothes, bar tabs, housing, communications, bribes (oops, did I say that out loud?)etc., can you imagine who would be left to actually want to run????
-- Posted by bearhunter on Wed, Nov 10, 2010, at 4:28 PM
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Hot topicsAfter latest assassination, is North Korea on the brink?
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Madden Girl Jeeves Pump
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Style grace and a little bit of lace describe the Madden Girl Jeeves slingback pump. The subtle glitter trim on this polished patent peep toe pump will exude elegance on your next night out.
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Location: Philadelphia
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Not basic black
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Savannah Brooke Roach and Justin Gary Cottam will be married on March 31 at the Carbon Country Club. Justin is the son of Lorvin and Geraldine Cottam of Price. Savannah is the daughter of Katherine Roach of Castle Dale and Scott and Lori Roach of Tracy, Calif.
Justin graduated from Carbon High and Savannah graduated from Emery High.
The couple plan to make their home in Price.


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Mayer, Waters, Springsteen on Stand Up For Heroes benefit bill
John Mayer and Roger Waters will perform at the sixth annual Stand Up For Heroes benefit, along with Bruce Springsteen, Robin Williams, Jon Stewart, Ricky Gervais, Patton Oswalt and Mike Birbiglia.
The fundraising event, sponsored by the Bob Woodruff Foundation and the New York Comedy Festival, will take place Thursday (11/8) at New York City's Beacon Theatre.
Musical performances, including Waters' set with a band comprised of military veterans, will be streamed live via YouTube and on the Bob Woodruff Foundation's website, Remind.org.
"We look forward to this event all year, because we are always honored when we get to meet the inspirational men and women who have served our country so heroically," said Bob Woodruff, co-founder of the Bob Woodruff Foundation. "These performers simply want to help give back to the men and women who have sacrificed so much. We hope that the social media component, new this year, will enable more people to enjoy the show -- and will raise even more awareness for the cause that lies behind it."
In its five previous years, the Stand Up For Heroes benefit has raised more than $10 million to support wounded veterans and their families.


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Tommy Hilfiger Brutus Boot
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Item # 295854
Sporty, with that classic touch of Tommy Hilfiger style, the Brutus leather boot is a handsome addition to your attire. Lace-up this boot for everyday weekend wear or next casual gathering for one ruggedly sharp look.
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Saint Aedesius of Alexandria
Brother of Saint Apphian. Publicly reproved a judge who had forced nuns to work in brothels in order to break them of their faith. Tortured and martyred.
- drowned in 306 in Alexandria, Egypt
- Book of Saints, by the Monks of Ramsgate
- Catholic Online
- Dictionary of Saints, by John Delaney
- Lives of the Saints, by Father Alban Butler
- Martirologio Romano, 2005 edition
- Our Sunday Visitor's Encyclopedia of Saints
- Roman Martyrology
- Santi e Beati
- "Saint Aedesius of Alexandria". CatholicSaints.Info. 8 April 2012. Web. 1 March 2017. <>


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Museum—a 60-square-foot repository located in an abandoned Tribeca freight elevator—debuted last May and, after closing to swap out exhibitions, has reopened for its second season. Its collection is a mishmash of found objects and artifacts donated by hobbyists; its permanent holdings include an index card detailing a pot dealer's pricing scale and—allegedly—the shoe that was thrown at President George W. Bush. This season's temporary exhibits include a collection of artifacts from American prisons, curated by Baron von Fancy; a selection of "moon rocks," gathered beneath the Park Avenue Armory during the recent Tom Sachs exhibit "Space Program: Mars"; and a selection of Screw magazine founder Al Goldstein's personal artifacts. During off-hours, curious spectators can peek at the items through peepholes and access its 24/7 audio guide via cell phone.
|Venue name:
4 Cortlandt Alley
New York
|Cross street:
|between Franklin and White Sts
|Opening hours:
|By appointment; visit twitter.com/mmuseumm for details.
|Subway: J, Z, N, Q, R, 6 to Canal St


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Presented are details on houseboat rentals available in and near Jekyll Island. We have the best prices available and no one beats our wide selection. Click on any name for more detailed information.
Places To Go
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A summary of what Jekyll Island has to offer.
Summary list of destinations near Jekyll Island.
Explore travel information for Georgia cities, towns, parks, regions and more.
Coverage for every state in the United States.
Explore neighboring countries (and soon countries throughout the world).
In addition to miles of sand fringed with beach grass and cooled by salt breezes, Cumberland Island National Seashore is the spot to star-gaze, hike meandering trails, bird-watch and catch cultural sights, all within easy reach of the Landmark Historic District of Jekyll Island, to the north.
Things To Do
Searchable list of Jekyll Island tour companies, guides and outfitters, rental companies and more.
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Searchable lists of Jekyll Island museums, parks, galleries, and more.
Introduction to all the things to do in Georgia.
Searchable list of tour companies, guides and outfitters, rental companies and more.
Full information on Tourist Attractions, Scenic Drives, Sightseeing Tours and easy vacation activities..
Detailed information on active pursuits such as biking, hiking, golfing and much more.
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Searchable listings of Georgia hotels, motels, resorts, bed & breakfast, and more.
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Use our easy Lodging Search to find exactly the type of accommodation you are looking for at the right price.Search Now
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Explore destinations near Jekyll Island.
Request Free Travel brochures from destinations throughout Georgia.
Travel articles related to Georgia…
Transportation companies, airports and interactive maps for Georgia.
Travel and tourism books and maps for Georgia.
Basic facts about Georgia, including a guide to every city and town in Georgia.
Searchable lists of Georgia tourism offices and other helpful government agencies.
Photos + Videos
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Searchable slide shows of Georgia photos.
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By JASON BAILEYSun Advocate/Progress Webmaster
Digital Video Discs, commonly known as simply "DVDs", began to reach American consumers in the late 1990's. It was heralded as the ultimate digital video solution. Since then, DVD has replaced VHS as the medium of choice for movies and other types of videos or films.
DVDs share a great deal with their CD cousins. For beginners, both are optical media that work in circular tracks. Both are read with focused, narrow beams of light ("lasers") that bounce off a reflective layer within the disc. They also share the same physical layout and dimensions (diameter).
DVD discs, however, cannot be read by standard CD readers (computer CD drives, CD audio players, etc). A DVD reader is needed instead, which uses a higher frequency laser diode due to increased capacity (density). Luckily, DVD readers can read CDs (commercial CDs, CD-Rs and usually CD-RWs as well) with ease.
Additionally, burning or writing to DVD discs require a DVD burner (a DVD disc drive that can "write" to blank DVD discs) and DVD-burning software. CD burners don't have DVD-writing capabilities. However, nearly all DVD burners can also burn CD-R and CD-RW discs.
One unique feature of DVD discs is the fact that they are often multi-layered, which is how they achieve such high data capacities. In fact, it is not uncommon to notice a slight delay mid-way through a movie, when the player has to switch to the second layer. Early DVD drives which were only capable of reading single layer DVD discs would fail when the reader reached the end of the first layer.
Contrary to their name, DVD discs can also be used to store data files, in addition to movies and even audio. In fact, DVD discs are becoming a very popular data storage medium because of their high data storage capacities that can range from 4.7 gigabytes (GB) to 17 gigabytes (GB). Newer, emerging standards have capacies that are in excess of 30 gigabytes (GB).
Unfortunately, the DVD disc has some pitfalls. For starters, there are several DVD disc types - DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD+RW and DVD-RAM, not to mention the newly introduced HD-DVD and Blu-ray DVDs which are just barely starting to creep onto the market. Not all readers (disc drives, players) can play all these different DVD discs. Thus, there is no single DVD standard, like there is with CDs.
Customer confusion is common, as one might imagine. Many will recall the VHS versus Betamax competition and the confusion that ensued. In many ways, however, the current DVD situation is worse because of the myriad disc types and the subtle differences in names. For example, "DVD-R" and "DVD+R" are entirely different types of DVD discs.
Most recent DVD readers (including players and computer disc drives) can read DVD-R and DVD+R discs. However, HD-DVD and Blu-ray are entirely different, and it is unlikely that a drive will be produced which can read both, in addition to the older DVD-R and DVD+R standards.
On the bright side, HD-DVD and Blu-ray DVD discs will bring higher storage capacities and greater multimedia capabilities. Either type will be able to hold a great deal more than traditional DVD discs.
Like CD-R discs, files, photos, videos or audio burned to a DVD-R and DVD+R disc cannot be removed, deleted or erased. However, if there is remaining space on the data disc, additional files can be added through the creation of additional burning sessions. Most DVD-burning software will add this session for you. As with CD-R data discs, DVDs require that sessions be closed before the data within that session can be read. Once a session is closed, it cannot be re-opened or added to.
DVD-RW and DVD-RAM discs behave much like CD-RW discs in that they can be erased and re-used. Like CD-RW discs, expect slower write/burning times.
Burning video to a DVD disc, so that it plays like a commercial DVD movie is possible, but complicated and beyond the scope of this article. It does require special software and isn't as easy as burning audio to a CD.
In any event, DVDs are here to stay, and aren't going to fade away any time soon!
Have comments about this article, or suggestions for an additional Tech Tips article? Send an email to firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Bought 127
Save up to 57%
Don't just take our word for it, see what people are saying on Trip Advisor:
'"Superb food"'
Reviewed: 19 July 2014
'"The staff were excellent, always friendly and helpful"'
Reviewed: 15 July 2014
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Eschew airport queues and confusing currency this year with a Great British break you won't forget in a hurry...
Today we're offering you a 2-night break for 2 including breakfast, dinner and afternoon tea for just £129, saving you up to 57% off The Whoop Hall's price of up to £300.
Based on the outskirts of the charming market town of Kirkby Lonsdale, The Whoop Hall is the ideal base from which to explore the stunning Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales. You and a lucky companion will head to the picturesque 17th century country club, resting your heads in a tastefully decorated double or twin bedroom with all the usual amenities. Each morning, you'll get a full English breakfast in the dining area, so you're set up to enjoy the numerous local attractions and activities.
Situated on the borders of Cumbria, Lancashire and Yorkshire, the hotel is close to all the local must-visit spots and natural beauties like the famous Devil's Bridge that spans the river Lune. Alternatively, spread your wings to the neighbouring counties and visit Lancaster Castle, Lakes Aquarium in Cumbria, or the Ingleton Waterfalls in Yorkshire. Once you're done with exploring, you'll be pleased to learn you and your travelling buddy can enjoy full use of the hotel leisure facilities including an 18-metre swimming pool, sauna, steam room, fitness studio and spa. On the first night of your stay, you will be treated to a delectable three-course meal featuring mouthwatering mains, such as slow cooked pork belly or the pan fried fillet of seabass - plus delicious desserts, like the caramelised white peach cheesecake. As if this isn't amazing enough, the friendly and attentive staff at The Whoop Hall will serve you afternoon tea, boasting a selection of dainty sandwiches, scones with lashings of clotted cream and jam, and tea or coffee. With such amazing treats, we've no idea what you're waiting for - head to the Lune Valley now!
The deal can also entitle you to a Wowcher Wallet Credit. Click here for more info.


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Create personalized scrapbook pages without the need for scissors and glue.
Feature multiple photos on a wide-variety of designs with the option to choose bordered prints as well. No matter the event, there are many great designs including wedding, mother's day, graduation, summer and even blank designs for you to make all your own.
Many sizes are available including 8x8 scrapbook pages, 8x10 scrapbook pages and 12x12 scrapbook pages.
Remember every event in full detail with personalized scrapbook pages.


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Check Cotton Shirt
£195 £195
Size Guide
Use the Size Guide to choose the best fit for your measurements.
In this window, you can find out the shipping and returns options for the selected item or contact Customer Service for further assistance
- A classic-cut shirt in cotton twill characterised by its distinctive check. The laidback shape is enhanced with a button-down collar, patch pocket and curved hemline, designed to tuck easily into chinos or wear loose with denim.
- The design is available in two sleeve lengths. SF sizes are 3cm shorter in the sleeve.
- 100% cotton
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Item 40159701
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Skechers GOrun Ride Lightweight Running Shoe - Mens
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Item # 282094
Run like the wind in the men's GOrun Ride lightweight running shoe! With enhanced comfort and a responsive ride, workouts will become a breeze.
This men's running shoe is best for the neutral runner. What is pronation?
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- 7.9 oz (men's size 9)
- Imported
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*Your pronation type is determined by the natural motion your feet apply throughout your running gait. When you pronate your foot rolls from either the outer edge, inner edge or not at all. If your foot rolls to the outer edge when you run, you are an underpronator, if it rolls to the inner edge you are a overpronator and if your foot doesn't roll at all you are a neutral or stable runner.
Find the the best running shoe for your pronation type :
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Location: Boston, MA
October 29, 2013
light, snug runner
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Jacksonville, Florida 32202
United States
|Areas of Practice
|1) Litigation
|Law School
|Nova Southeastern University, Shepard Broad Law Center
|Admitted Year
|University of North Florida (B.A., 1994)
|Most recent firm
|Boyd & Jenerette
|Relevant Jobs
Managing Partner
Immediate opening for a litigation associate with 2+ years experience to handle a large caseload primarily consisting of plaintiff-side consumer cases. Strong research and persuasive writing skills...
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Litigation Attorney
Litigation defense firm seeking an attorney with a minimum of 3 years litigation experience. Experience in the practice areas of Insurance Defense, Auto, Employment, and/or Medical Malpractice is ...
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Assistant General Counsel, Litigation
Assistant General Counsel, Litigation Duties: Manages the Litigation functional area of the Legal Department, and oversees a team of Sr. Corporate Counsel, Corporate Counsel, Legal Specialists and Le...
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|+ View more jobs
A. Harrison Barnes is a well-known attorney throughout the United States. As a member of the Malibu community, Harrison is committed to serving the needs of Malibu residents and businesses in legal matters.
Benjamin P. Smith is a partner in Morgan Lewis's Litigation Practice. He is a trial lawyer with a particular focus on high-stakes disputes in the biotechnology, medical device, and internet industries.


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By Brendan Conway
Some reading connected in one way or another to investing in funds:
- $353,000: That's what an entry-level hire earns at a large hedge fund with middling performance, according to a new study. – David Benoit, WSJ MoneyBeat
- Greece gets a demotion from "developed" to "emerging" markets by S&P. — Brendan Conway, Barrons.com
- Fidelity Investments is a work in progress despite its size and history — we grade it a "B." — Katie Rushkewicz Reichart, Morningstar
- How cheap are those new Fidelity ETFs anyway? It all depends. — Paul Baoicchi, IndexUniverse
- T.D. Ameritrade has quietly introduced ETFs into 401(k) plans. — Hung Tran, IndexUniverse


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PRICE-Lynn Michelle Littlejohn Whiteside, age 41, passed away March 24, 2011 in Price.
She was born Dec. 19, 1969 in Augsburg, Germany to Lawrence Scott Littlejohn and Vickie Lee Anderson.
For years Lynn shared her life with Frankie Kraync and from this union they were blessed with two beautiful daughters FrankieLyn and Scottie. On Aug. 8, 2007, Lynn married T.J. Whiteside in Price.
Lynn was a longtime resident of the area where she attended Reeves Elementary and graduated from Emery High School in 1987. She enjoyed listening to her music and especially going to concerts. Lynn lived her life for her girls and she was always very supportive of all their endeavors.
Whether it was racing motocross or getting ready for a special event, Lynn made sure that she was there for her girls. She was deeply proud of their accomplishments and she'll always have a special place in her heart for her family.
She is survived by her loving daughters, FrankieLyn Kraync and Scottie Kraync, husband, T.J. Whiteside, father, Scott Littlejohn, all of Price; brothers, Lance Littlejohn, Price, Scott Ryan Littlejohn, Rock Springs, Wyo.; and grandmothers, Nana Beth Davis, of Price, and Noreen Anderson of Helper.
Lynn was preceded in death by her mother Vickie Oveson.
A memorial service for Lynn will be Thursday, March 31, 2011, 11 a.m., at Mitchell Funeral Home in Price. Family will receive friends at Mitchell's Thursday one hour prior to service. Interment will be in the Price City Cemetery. Friends and family are welcome to share memories of Lynn at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net.


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Download a PDF of this document here
Download a PDF of this document here
On a recent CBS Evening News Report, the claim was made that 50% of Americans are overweight and that more than 30% of Americans are obese. The "girth" of Americans is increasing at a rate faster than any other people of the world. Fast foods along with changing cooking and eating habits are the purported causes of growing American obesity.
Obesity immediately brings to mind associations with hypertension, diabetes and heart disease. Yet, most people are surprised to learn that there is an association between obesity and infertility. Adam Smith describes in The Wealth of Nations the impact of body weight on reproduction. He writes that the poor women of Edinburgh (slender due to inadequate diet) have difficulty conceiving, while the rich women (those with an adequate diet) have no problem conceiving. Epidemiological data confirm that obesity accounts for 6% of primary infertility, and even more surprising, that low body weight in women accounts for 6% of primary infertility. Thus, 12% of primary infertility results from deviations in body weight from established norms, and that this infertility can be corrected by restoring body weight to within normal established limits.
More than 70% of women who are infertile as the result of body weight disorders will conceive spontaneously if their weight disorder is corrected through a weight-gaining or weight-reduction diet as appropriate. Yet, body weight is often considered last in an infertility evaluation. It may be ignored entirely until other diagnostic studies and therapeutic interventions have proven normal or futile. In my opinion, the body weight of both partners of the infertile couple should be considered first when there is an obvious slender or obese body habitus in either partner. Also, awareness of the importance of body weight on reproduction enables couples to maintain appropriate body weight or to correct a body weight disorder before subjecting themselves to expensive, time consuming infertility evaluation and treatment.
What is the relationship between body weight and infertility? Sex steroid hormones—testosterone (the principal male hormone) and estradiol (the principal female hormone)—are lipid soluble, i.e.; they dissolve in fat but not in water. Thus, these hormones accumulate in body fat. Once body fat stores are saturated with sex steroid hormones, they reach equilibrium with blood. In addition to the stored source of sex steroid hormones in body fat, the gonads secrete testosterone and estradiol to maintain the levels necessary to sustain reproductive function.
In addition to the storage capacity of body fat for sex steroid hormones, adipose cells (fat cells) convert the weak male hormone, androstenedione, to the weak female hormone, estrone. Estrone, though not as potent as estradiol, has metabolic effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis of the brain (the area of the brain that regulates testicular and ovarian function) to alter reproductive function. These complex interactions have the net effect of impairing reproductive function. These effects of body weight on female reproductive function are well established.
However, the effects of body weight on male reproductive function are not well studied and are more speculative.
There are differential metabolic pathways for estradiol metabolism in women depending on body weight. Slender women metabolize estradiol to 2-hydroxyestrone—an antiestrogen; obese women metabolize estradiol to estriol—a weak estrogen. The rate of metabolic change seems to correlate with the percent of body fat of total body mass. Thus, slender women progressively "turn down" the reproductive cycle until it is "turned off" when the condition of anorexia nervosa (defined as less than 85% of predicted ideal body weight for height) is reached. On the other hand, obese women progressively increase their alternate estrogens—estrone and estriol—until ovulation ceases and they become infertile. It is ironic that both thin and obese women develop irregular reproductive cycles, but by entirely different mechanisms. Thin women are estrogen deficient whereas obese women have an excess of estrogen but do not cycle on a regular basis.
It is well established that body fat affects the onset of puberty in girls. Most of us have observed early breast development in "chubby girls" and delayed breast development in thin girls. Girls who participate in strenuous training programs such as gymnastics or ballet have delayed puberty. Their secondary sexual development (breasts, pubic hair, menstruation, ovulation) does not occur until they reduce or stop their training program and increase their body fat.
There are reports of earlier puberty in girls during the past decade. This may reflect the relationship between body fat, a fast-food diet, and secondary sexual development. If we relate the earlier onset of puberty to the early accumulation of body fat, it is likely that sufficient estradiol is being sequestered in body fat to initiate secondary sexual development. With progressive accumulation of body fat that approaches obesity (as defined as greater than 120% of predicted ideal body weight for height) in adolescent girls, reproductive function may begin as a normal physiologic event and progress to impairment of reproductive function within a few years. Not only should adults be aware of this relationship between body weight and reproductive function, but parents should be aware of the relationship as well. Parents can counsel their adolescent children about the impact of body fat on the secondary sexual development and reproductive function of their adolescent children.
Despite the number of publications, both scientific publications and lay publications in the media, there is lack of knowledge about the relationship between body weight and infertility. This paper is an effort to further educate about this relationship so those couples contemplating pregnancy can assess their body weight as it pertains to their potential to conceive a pregnancy. This is an opportunity for infertile couples to understand the impact of body weight on their reproductive capacity and take steps, without expert advice, to improve their reproductive capacity.
The sine qua none of normal reproductive function in women is regular, predictable menstrual cycles. Most women will cycle at 26-32 day intervals on a predictable basis. In males, the sine qua none of normal reproductive function is morning erections. The latter equates with normal testosterone secretion, but does not correlate with a normal sperm count. Thus, men must have a semen analysis to establish reproductive potential.
The first sign in women of altered reproductive function is variation from an established regular, predictable menstrual cycle. Moreover, ovulating women will experience abundant, clear mucous secretions from the vagina at mid-cycle as well as breast fullness, breast tenderness and abdominal bloating during the week prior to menstruation. Abundant cervical mucous (perceived as vaginal mucous) correlates with appropriate mid-reproductive cycle estradiol secretion by the ovaries, while the latter signs of breast fullness, breast tenderness and abdominal bloating correlate with progesterone secretion following ovulation. The absence of these signs suggests altered ovulatory function.
Obese women experience first, a change in their reproductive cycles. Their cycles become irregular, unpredictable and often heavy and prolonged. Heavy, prolonged cycles correlate with increased estrogen production in the forms of estrone and estriol. In addition, obese women will often notice the onset of dark (terminal) hair on the lower abdomen, face and between the breasts. This terminal hair results from the increased ovarian production of androstenedione that occurs with obesity. Although androstenedione is a weak male hormone, over time it will stimulate excessive body hair growth.
Slender women experience different signs and symptoms from obese women. The initial sign of altered reproductive cycles is similar to that of obese women. However, as estrogen production decreases, slender women experience decreasing vaginal mucous secretions as well as decreased breast size. Eventually, slender women experience vaginal dryness and loss of sex drive.
Again, women who experience these signs and symptoms associated with changes in body weight can make the correlation, evaluate and treat themselves. If they seek professional medical attention, their physician(s) should support their self-evaluation and encourage them to correct their weight problem.
Obese women are more apt to acknowledge the impact of obesity on reproductive function than are slender women. However, the challenge of weight loss is just as daunting as is the challenge of weight gain for slender women. Most obese people (men and women) have tried diets, exercise programs and other methods to lose weight, but have not been successful. When a physician recommends a weight reduction program for obese people trying to conceive, the patient (couple) often views this recommendation as another wasted effort
The approach that a physician takes to weight reduction shapes the outcome. Obese women need education and counseling. Moreover, they need encouragement and understanding with praise for accomplishments for weight reduction.
Because many obese women have an excess of androstenedione, the administration of oral contraceptives will suppress the pituitary signal (leutinizing hormone) that stimulates the ovaries to overproduce androstenedione. Obese, infertile women find it a paradox that birth control pills facilitate pregnancy!
In addition to oral contraceptives, the traditional methods of weight loss—diet and exercise—are essential elements of the treatment program. It must be emphasized to obese individuals that weight loss does not occur immediately, but must be measured over time. It is realistic to anticipate weight loss at the rate of one pound per week. Thus, if the objective is a 20-pound weight loss, then a minimum of 20 weeks is required to achieve this objective. Unrealistic expectations lead to abandonment of the weight loss program. Obese individuals should set their goal to reach a body weight that is 110% of predicted ideal body weight.
Slender women are more challenging than obese women to accept the idea that low body weight contributes to infertility. Many slender women work at being slender. They diet strenuously, exercise vigorously and work to fit into a small size dress. It is hard to convince them that their "healthful" lifestyle contributes to their infertility.
The key to success with slender women is convincing them that low body weight is associated with infertility. Once this can be achieved, the rest of the therapeutic program comes easily. Slender women should be encouraged to increase their body weight to 100% of predicted ideal body weight for their height. They should gain weight at the rate of one-half pound per week. Since slender women work hard to maintain their svelte body habitus, it is easy for them to gain weight once they buy-in to the program. Weight gain should be slow and one expects that six months will be required to restore normal reproductive function and pregnancy.
Body fat plays a critical role in human reproduction. Both excess and deficiency of body fat lead to reproductive failure. Body weight disorders is one of the first potential causes of reproductive failure in both men and women. This is a problem that can be corrected by the affected individual and the infertile couple.
Twelve percent or more of infertile couples have deviations from their ideal body weight as the cause of their infertility. If a woman's body weight is less than 95% of predicted ideal body weight or greater than 120% of predicted ideal body weight, then appropriate weight gain or weight loss should be the primary therapeutic recommendation. These men and women need patience and understanding as they cope with the issue of body weight and its impact on their reproductive function.
Respectfully submitted to the Prevention of Infertility Committee by: G. William Bates, M.D.
Abnormal Body Weight: A Preventable Cause Of Infertility-pdf
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Michael (Tom) and Joann Shannon, of Huntington, announce the marriage of their daughter, Shanna Dee, to Joseph Ralph Lewis, son of Brigg and Linda Lewis of Kaysville. Joe and Shanna will be married in the Bountiful LDS Temple on July 16.
An open house picnic will be held in their honor on July 25, at the Bear Creek Campground, Huntington Canyon, from 4-6 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, the open house will be at the Huntington Stake Center, 240 North Main Street, Huntington.
Joe and Shanna will make their home in Salt Lake where they are both employed.


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The Republic of Maldives has a parliamentary style of government with a strong executive. Political parties are not allowed to function. The President appoints the Cabinet, members of the judiciary, and 8 members of the 50-member Parliament. The President derives additional influence from his constitutional role as the "Supreme authority to propagate the tenets of Islam." The unicameral legislature, the People's Majlis, selects a single presidential nominee who is approved or rejected in a national referendum. President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom was approved for a sixth 5-year term in October 2003. The People's Majlis must approve all legislation and is empowered to enact legislation without presidential approval. In May, elections were held for the members of the People's Special Majlis, a constitutional body convoked by the President specifically to address constitutional reforms. During the year, the Special Majlis, consisting of the 50 members of the regular People's Majlis and 50 members elected or appointed specifically for this reform process, met several times. Civil law is subordinate to Shari'a (Islamic law), but civil law generally is applied in criminal and civil cases. The judiciary is subject to executive influence.
In September, police separated from the National Security Service (NSS), which formerly included the armed forces and police. The Maldives Police Service, now a civilian force reporting to the Ministry of Home Affairs, investigates crimes, collects intelligence, makes arrests, and enforces house arrest. Although the NSS is responsible for external security, it retained a role in internal security. The Director of the NSS reports to the Minister of Defense. The civilian authorities maintained effective control of the security forces. Some members of the security forces committed human rights abuses.
The country had a population of approximately 285,000, according to a mid-year estimate, and had a market-based economy. Tourism and fishing provided employment for more than one-half of the work force. Manufacturing, primarily apparel production, decreased. The economic growth rate was approximately 8.5 percent. Public sector wages did not keep pace with inflation. On December 26, a large-scale tsunami devastated significant parts of the country, killing 82 persons and injuring and displacing thousands of others.
The Government's human rights record remained poor; although there were some improvements in a few areas, serious problems remained. The President's power to appoint some members of the Parliament and the absence of political parties constrained citizens' ability to change their government. Although the President issued orders designed to protect the rights of detainees, such as ensuring the right to counsel and videotaping all interrogations, there were reports of the abuse of prisoners. The Government continued to impose constraints on freedom of the press and on the formation of political parties; however, on June 9, the President proposed numerous constitutional reforms including the right to form political parties. The Government limited freedom of assembly and association. The law prohibits the practice of any religion other than Islam. Although the Government has undertaken a number of programs addressing women's issues, women faced a variety of legal and social disadvantages. The Government also restricted internationally recognized worker rights.
Section 1 Respect for the Integrity of the Person, Including Freedom From:
a. Arbitrary or Unlawful Deprivation of Life
There were no reports of the arbitrary or unlawful deprivation of life committed by the Government or its agents. In September 2003, security forces killed two inmates, Hassan Eemaan Naseem and Abdulla Amin, during the Maafushi prison uprising. Of the 12 other inmates injured and flown to Sri Lanka for treatment, 1 prisoner, Ali Aslaam, later died (see Section 1.c.). During the year, the Government continued the prosecution of 12 NSS officials involved in the killing of Hassan Eemaan Naseem and 6 others involved in the prison uprising that followed.
b. Disappearance
There were no reports of politically motivated disappearances.
c. Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment
The law prohibits such practices; however, according to human rights organizations and opposition groups, there were reports of beatings or other mistreatment of persons in police custody during the year. Following demonstrations in Malé on August 12 to 13 to demand the release of political prisoners and the implementation of democratic reforms, the Government declared on August 13 a state of emergency, which suspended constitutional rights for detainees. According to Amnesty International (AI), Mohamed Munavvar, the former Attorney General and member of the People's Majlis, was beaten while in custody in August. AI also noted that at least one prisoner, Ahmed Ibrahim Didi, needed urgent medical attention for a heart condition. The Government denied allegations of police brutality. There were no developments in the case of Ibrahim Moosa Luthfee, who was sentenced in 2002 to life imprisonment (see Section 2.a.) and who escaped in May 2003 from police custody after being taken to Sri Lanka for medical treatment as a result of alleged mistreatment and harsh conditions while he was in Maafushi Prison.
Following the September 2003 Maafushi Prison uprising and subsequent rioting, President Gayoom launched two separate inquiries into the incidents. The public reports made recommendations for improved supervision of prison operations and increased rehabilitation opportunities for inmates. The Government held an NSS captain at the prison responsible for the uprising, dismissed him from police service, and fired 12 NSS personnel for their roles in the prison disturbance. In June, the Criminal Court sentenced Mohamed Aswan, second in command of the Maafushi Prison security unit, to 6 months' banishment to a remote island for disobeying government orders in the confrontation at the prison (see Sections 1.d. and 2.d.). Government prosecution of other NSS officials continued during the year.
There were reports of public floggings (which are allowed under Shari'a as interpreted in the country). Several cases were related to charges of adultery. In general, punishments were limited to fines, compensatory payment, house arrest, imprisonment, or banishment to a remote atoll (see Section 1.d.). The Government generally permitted those who were banished to receive visits by family members.
There was one prison and one detention center in the country. During the year, some detainees were also kept at an NSS training facility. The country's main facility had a fluctuating population of approximately 300 inmates.
After the 2003 Maafushi Prison riot, the Government surveyed prison facilities in other countries to incorporate international standards and improvements in the reconstruction of the prison, and prison conditions improved during the year. Prisoners were allowed to work and were given the opportunity for regular exercise and recreation. Spouses were allowed privacy during visits with incarcerated partners. After the August 12 to 13 civil unrest, some detainees were held incommunicado in 8-foot by 8-foot cells at the Dhoonidoo Detention Facility, without access to reading material or exercise. Most other detainees held after the August unrest and state of emergency were held in solitary confinement in 6 by 9 foot cells at an NSS training facility. In October, some detainees were given access to legal counsel. Food and medical care at all facilities appeared to be adequate. Some detainees complained of mistreatment while being transferred to and held at detention facilities, and human rights organizations noted that some prisoners were kept in unsanitary conditions. Women were held separately from men. Juveniles were held separately from adults. Pretrial detainees were not held separately from convicted prisoners. Persons arrested for drug use were sent to a drug rehabilitation center on a space available basis.
Some international human rights organizations were not permitted to visit prisons; however, the Government permitted prison visits by foreign diplomats. During the year, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) signed a formal agreement with the Government to monitor prisons but did not make any visits (see Section 4). AI visited the country in October, but did not issue a report during the year.
d. Arbitrary Arrest or Detention
The Constitution prohibits arbitrary arrest and detention; however, persons were held arbitrarily after the August 12-13 unrest in Malé. Of the approximately 180 persons initially detained (see Section 2.b.), 78 persons were detained for several weeks without charge and without access to counsel or family members. While the Government allowed diplomats, family members, and members of the Maldives Human Rights Commission (MHRC) to visit some prisoners, the Government did not grant access to all prisoners. After 3 weeks, the Government permitted family visits for some of the prisoners.
Police initiated investigations based on response to written complaints from citizens, police officers, or government officials, or on suspicion of criminal activity. They were not required to obtain arrest warrants. The Attorney General referred cases to the appropriate court based on the results of police investigations. The authorities generally kept the details of a case secret until they were confident that the charges were likely to be upheld.
The 287-officer Maldives Police Service, which until September functioned as a subset of the NSS, investigated crimes, collected intelligence, made arrests, and enforced house arrest. Neither police corruption nor impunity posed problems during the year. The Government inquiries into the September 2003 Maafushi Prison uprising concluded that improved supervision of prison operations and increased rehabilitation opportunities for inmates were necessary, and these reforms were implemented.
A suspect may be detained in prison, remain free, or be placed under house arrest for 15 days during investigations, depending upon the charges. In most cases, the suspect is released if not brought to trial within 15 days, but the President may extend pretrial detention for an additional 30 days. Those who are released pending trial may not leave a specific atoll. Within 24 hours of an arrest, an individual must be told of the grounds for the arrest. An individual then can be held for 7 days. If no legal proceedings have been initiated within 7 days, the case is referred to an anonymous 3-member civilian commission, appointed by the President, that can authorize an additional 15 days of detention. After that time, if legal proceedings still have not been initiated, a judge must sanction the continued detention on a monthly basis. There is no provision for bail. Many of these provisions were suspended for the detainees held during the state of emergency enacted following the August 12 to 13 uprising.
The law provides for limited legal assistance to people accused of a criminal offense. In previous years, AI alleged that conversations between counsel and accused were conducted in the presence of police. Lawyers can be appointed in civil cases when the complainant and defendant are private individuals. Courts did not provide legal representation for the indigent. Although there is no right to legal counsel during police interrogation, detainees are granted access to family members. The Government may prohibit access to a telephone and nonfamily visits to those under house arrest. Following the state of emergency declared after the August 12 to 13 unrest, most of the detainees were held incommunicado for several weeks, but the Government later granted some of them family visits. The law does not provide safeguards against incommunicado detention (see Sections 1.c. and 1.e.).
On February 13, the Government arrested approximately eight persons for planning a demonstration by an unregistered political party. According to AI, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), which the Government does not recognize, planned to sponsor a demonstration to protest the Government's failure to curb crime. According to international media reports, the Government arrested the planners of the demonstration for traffic and burglary offences; however, AI claimed the Government made the arrests because members of MDP held elections for the Governing Council of their organization (see Section 2.b.). Opposition leaders claimed that the MDP planned to give the President a letter asserting that the Constitution allows political parties. Legal action against the eight persons still detained or under house arrest was ongoing at year's end.
The law limits a citizen's right to freedom of expression in order to protect the "basic tenets of Islam." In 2002, according to AI and other sources, four individuals were arrested for distributing Islamist and antigovernment literature. By the end of 2003, three of the men were convicted to lengthy prison sentences for extremism and subversion, and the fourth man was released.
There were reports of internal exile of citizens during the year (see Section 2.d.). In 2002, according to the Government, more than 600 persons were temporarily banished to another island. In June, an NSS officer was banished to a remote island for 6 months for disobeying government orders in the September 2003 Maafushi Prison disturbances (see Section 1.c.).
e. Denial of Fair Public Trial
The Constitution does not provide for an independent judiciary, and the judiciary is subject to executive influence. In addition to his authority to review High Court decisions, the President influences the judiciary through his power to appoint and dismiss judges, all of whom serve at his pleasure and are not subject to confirmation by the People's Majlis. The President also may grant pardons and amnesties.
There are three courts: One for civil matters; one for criminal cases; and one for family and juvenile cases. There is also a High Court in Malé, which is independent of the Justice Ministry and which handles a wide range of cases, including politically sensitive ones. The High Court also acts as court of appeals. The President can appoint a five-member advisory council to review High Court rulings. The President also has authority to affirm judgments of the High Court, to order a second hearing, or to overturn the Court's decision.
Most trials are public and are conducted by judges and magistrates trained in Islamic, civil, and criminal law. There are no jury trials.
The Constitution provides that an accused person be presumed innocent until proven guilty and that an accused person has the right to defend himself "in accordance with Shari'a." The judiciary generally enforced these rights. During a trial, the accused also may call witnesses, and be assisted by a lawyer (see Section 1.d.). Judges question the concerned parties and attempt to establish the facts of a case.
Civil law is subordinate to Shari'a, which is applied in situations not covered by civil law, as well as in certain matters such as divorce and adultery. Courts adjudicating matrimonial and criminal cases generally do not allow legal counsel in court because, according to a local interpretation of Shari'a, all answers and submissions should come directly from the parties involved. However, the High Court allowed legal counsel in all cases, including those in which the right to counsel was denied in lower court. Those convicted had the right to appeal. Under the country's Islamic practice, the testimony of two women equals that of one man in matters involving Shari'a, such as adultery, finance, and inheritance. In other cases, the testimony of men and women are equivalent (see Section 5).
There were no confirmed reports of political prisoners; however, AI claimed the Government held at least six political prisoners. According to AI, in 2002, Ibrahim Moosa Luthfee, Mohamed Zaki, Ahmed Ibrahim Didi, and Fathimath Nisreen were arrested for circulating an Internet e-mail magazine, Sandhaanu, critical of the Government. The four were held in solitary confinement until their trial in 2002. Luthfee, Zaki, and Didi were sentenced to life imprisonment for spreading false news and calling for the overthrow of the Government, among other charges. AI also considered Nisreen, the one woman arrested, a political prisoner. She was sentenced to 10 years' imprisonment for charges including calling for the overthrow of the Government and assisting Sandhaanu originators. In May 2003, Luthfee escaped from NSS custody while receiving medical care in Sri Lanka, and was still at large. The Government maintained that these prisoners were convicted of crimes not related to politics.
Opposition groups claimed that the majority of persons detained (and not charged) after the August 12-13 unrest were being held because of their political views (see Section 1.c.). According to the Attorney General, at year's end, one person remained in detention.
f. Arbitrary Interference with Privacy, Family, Home, or Correspondence
The Constitution prohibits security officials from opening or reading wireless messages, letters, telegrams, or monitoring telephone conversations, "except as expressly provided by law;" however, the Government restricted privacy rights on occasion. After the August 12 to 13 unrest, the Government's telecommunications authority blocked mobile telephone text messages and Internet access for regular Internet users for 3 days (see section 2.a.). The NSS may open the mail of private citizens and monitor telephone conversations if authorized in the course of a criminal investigation.
Although the Constitution provides that residential premises and dwellings should be inviolable, there is no legal requirement for search or arrest warrants. The Attorney General or a commanding officer of the police must approve the search of private residences.
Section 2 Respect for Civil Liberties, Including:
a. Freedom of Speech and Press
The law does not provide for freedom of speech or of the press, and the Government generally did not respect such rights in practice. The Penal Code prohibits inciting citizens against the Government. The law prohibits public statements that are contrary to government policy and Islam, threaten the public order, or are libelous. However, an amendment to the Penal Code decriminalizes "true account(s)" by journalists of governmental actions. Journalists and publishers practiced self-censorship.
Regulations that make publications responsible for the content of the material they publish remain in effect, but no legal actions against publications were initiated during the year.
The Press Council is composed of lawyers, private and government media representatives, and other government officials. The mandate of the council is to review charges of journalistic misconduct (advising the Ministry of Information, Arts, and Culture on measures to be taken against reporters, when appropriate) and promotes professional standards within the media by recommending reforms and making suggestions for improvement. The Council did not take notable action during the year.
Almost 200 newspapers and periodicals were registered with the Government, but only 3 dailies, each owned by a current or former government minister, were published on a regular basis: Aafathis, Haveeru and Miadhu. In March 2003, the Government announced the withdrawal of 22 publication licenses for irregular publication. No regularly published newspaper or periodical was affected by this action.
The Government or its sympathizers owned and operated the only television and radio stations. It did not interfere with foreign broadcasts or with the sale of satellite receivers. Reports drawn from foreign newscasts were aired on the government television station.
In general, after an easing of restrictions in the late 1990s, the Government has taken a more stringent attitude toward freedom of the media. For example, in 2002, three men and a woman were arrested for circulating an Internet e-mail magazine critical of the Government (see Section 1.e.).
There were no legal prohibitions on the import of foreign publications except for those containing pornography or material otherwise deemed objectionable to Islamic values.
The Government generally did not interfere with the use of the Internet; however, it blocked sites deemed pornographic and blocked all Internet access for 3 days following the August 12 to 13 agitation (see Section 1.f.).
The law prohibits public statements contrary to government policy and the Government's interpretation of Islam. Therefore, although there were no reported cases of transgressions of these laws in the academic arena, the laws constrain academic freedom to the extent that academics practiced self-censorship.
b. Freedom of Peaceful Assembly and Association
The Constitution provides for freedom of assembly; however, the Government imposed limits on this right in practice. Informal restrictions on public assembly were relaxed following the President's June 9 speech. Numerous impromptu "town hall"-type meetings occurred following the speech, in which different proposed reforms were debated.
On February 13, the Government arrested approximately eight persons for planning a demonstration of an unregistered political party (see Section 1.d.).
On August 12 to 13, approximately 5,000 persons demonstrated outside the NSS headquarters in Malé to demand the release of political prisoners and call for democratic reform. After the crowd allegedly became unruly, the NSS used tear gas to disperse the demonstrators. The Government arrested approximately 180 persons, including 12 members of the Special Majlis, 2 of whom are also members of the People's Majlis. On August 13, the Government declared a state of emergency, which suspended constitutional rights for detainees and imposed a curfew (see Section 1.c.). On October 10, the Government lifted the state of emergency but continued to detain a number of suspects, including the 12 Special Majlis M.P.s. By November, all but 25 of the detainees had either been released or transferred to house arrest. On December 5, the Government charged four Special Majlis Members with sedition in connection with the events of August 12 to 13. By December 14, all but one of the Special Majlis M.P.s had been released from house arrest. On December 31, the Government dropped the charges against the four M.P.s and released the last M.P. from house arrest.
In September 2003, the NSS reportedly used tear gas to quell demonstrations that damaged several government buildings in Malé, including the election office (see Section 1.c.). There were reports that several civilians sustained minor injuries as a result of the police action.
The Constitution provides for freedom of association; however, the Government imposed limits on freedom of association in practice. The Government registers clubs and other private associations if they do not contravene Islamic or civil law. While not prohibited by law, the President officially discouraged political parties on the grounds that they were inappropriate to the homogenous nature of society; however, in a speech on June 9, the President announced proposals for constitutional reform allowing for the existence of political parties. By year's end, no reforms were enacted.
Although not prohibited, there were no independent local human rights groups. In December 2003, the Government formed the nine-member MHRC, and the Commission subsequently met more than 50 times. During the year, the MHRC issued public reports on the 2003 Maafushi prison uprising (see Section 1.c.).
c. Freedom of Religion
The Constitution does not provide for freedom of religion, and freedom of religion was restricted significantly. The Constitution designates the Sunni branch of Islam as the official state religion, and the Government interpreted this provision to impose a requirement that citizens be Muslims. The law prohibits the practice of any religion other than Islam. The Government observes Shari'a. Civil law is subordinate to Shari'a, which is applied in situations not covered by civil law as well as in certain acts such as divorce and adultery. Foreign residents were allowed to practice their religion if they did so privately and did not encourage citizens to participate. President Gayoom repeatedly stated that no other religion should be allowed in the country, and the Home Affairs Ministry announced special programs to safeguard and strengthen religious unity. The President, the members of the People's Majlis, and cabinet members must be Muslims.
There were no places of worship for adherents of other religions. The Government prohibited the import of icons and religious statues, but it generally permitted the import of individual religious literature, such as Bibles, for personal use. It also prohibited non-Muslim clergy and missionaries from proselytizing and conducting public worship services. Conversion of a Muslim to another faith is a violation of the Government's interpretation of Shari'a and may result in punishment, including the loss of the convert's citizenship; however, there were no known cases of loss of citizenship from conversion to a non-Islamic religion. In the past, would-be converts have been detained and counseled regarding their conversion from Islam. Unlike previous years, there were no reports of foreigners detained for proselytizing.
Islamic instruction is a mandatory part of the school curriculum, and the Government funded the salaries of religious instructors. The Government has established a Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs to provide guidance on religious matters. The Government also set standards for individuals who conduct Friday services at mosques.
Under the country's Islamic practice, certain legal provisions discriminate against women (see Sections 1.e., 3, and 5).
For a more detailed discussion, see the 2004 International Religious Freedom Report.
d. Freedom of Movement Within the Country, Foreign Travel, Emigration, and Repatriation
The law provides for these rights, and the Government generally respected them in practice. Citizens are free to travel at home and abroad, to emigrate, and to return. Foreign workers often were housed at their worksites. Unlike in previous years, their ability to travel freely was not restricted.
The law allows for forced exile, and the Government used forced exile in practice. In June, the Criminal Court sentenced Mohamed Aswan, second in command of the Maafushi Prison security unit, to 6 months' banishment to a remote island for disobeying government orders in the September 2003 confrontation at the prison (see Sections 1.d. and 2.d.).
The law does not provide for the granting of asylum or refugee status in accordance with the 1951 U.N. Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees or its 1967 Protocol, and the Government has not established a system for providing protection to refugees or asylees. The Government has cooperated in the past with the office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees; however, asylum issues did not arise during the year. The Government provided protection against refoulement, the return of persons to a country where they feared persecution. The Government did not routinely grant refugee status or asylum.
Section 3 Respect for Political Rights: The Right of Citizens to Change Their Government
Under the Constitution, the citizens' ability to change their government is limited and the strong executive exerted significant influence over both the legislature and the judiciary. Under the Constitution, the People's Majlis chooses a single presidential nominee, who must be a Sunni Muslim male, from a list of self-announced candidates for the nomination. Would-be nominees for president are not permitted to campaign for the nomination. The nominee is then confirmed or rejected by secret ballot in a nationwide referendum. From a field of four candidates, President Gayoom was nominated unanimously by the People's Majlis and was confirmed by referendum in October 2003 for a sixth 5-year term. Observers from the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) said the referendum was conducted in a free and fair manner.
By both law and custom, the Office of the President is the most powerful political institution in the country. The Constitution gives Shari'a preeminence over civil law and designates the President as the "supreme authority to propagate the tenets" of Islam.
Unlike in previous years, the President was not the Commander in Chief of the armed forces, the Minister of Defense and National Security, and the Minister of Finance and Treasury. The President remained the Governor of the Maldivian Monetary Authority. The President's authority to appoint 8 of the 50 members of the People's Majlis provided the President strong political leverage. The elected members of the People's Majlis, who must be Muslims, serve 5-year terms. All citizens over 21 years of age may vote. Individuals or groups were free to approach members of the People's Majlis with grievances or opinions on proposed legislation, and any member may introduce legislation. There were no political parties, which were officially discouraged (see Section 2.b.).
Elections to the People's Majlis were held in 1999. According to SAARC observers, the 1999 elections were "free and fair in accordance with the relevant laws and regulations of the Republic of the Maldives." A by-election with 38 percent participation was held in April 2002 following the expulsion of M.P. Mohammed Nasheed from the People's Majlis upon his conviction for petty theft. According to observers, the election was generally free and fair. Elections for the People's Majlis, originally scheduled for December 31, were postponed following the December 26 tsunami. Critics of the Government claimed that some candidates, who remained under house arrest, were unable to file applications to contest the elections by the November 15 deadline; however, at least one candidate who was in detention at the filing deadline was able to file an application and conduct a campaign.
For the past several years, the People's Majlis has held a question period during which members may query government ministers about public policy. Debate on the floor since the question period was instituted has become increasingly open. In March and April, there was significant debate about legislation regarding the MHRC (see Section 4).
On May 28, elections were held for the members of the People's Special Majlis, a constitutional body convened by the President to address constitutional reforms. The Special Majlis, consisting of the 50 members of the regular People's Majlis and 50 members elected or appointed specifically for this reform process, met several times during the year, albeit without the presence of members held in detention. The Special Majlis was temporarily suspended in July after some M.P.s walked out in protest at procedures adopted to elect the Speaker. The sessions resumed on October 12, and a Speaker was elected by open ballot on October 14.
Although research about corruption in the executive and legislative branches was limited, some sources cited anecdotal reports that the power of the President and his family directed most decisions, including economic activities and political reform. There is an anti-corruption board that investigates allegations of corruption in the Government.
There are no laws that provided for access to government information.
There were 5 women in the 50-member People's Majlis and 6 in the 50-member Special Majlis. There were two women in the Cabinet. Women are not eligible to become president but may hold other government posts. In 2002, a woman was named High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, the first woman to hold the office.
Section 4 Governmental Attitude Regarding International and Nongovernmental Investigation of Alleged Violations of Human Rights
Although not prohibited, no independent local human rights groups existed in the country.
Some international human rights groups were not allowed in the country; however, on September 4, the President told international media that AI could enter the country to assess prison conditions. AI visited the country in October but did not issue a report at year's end. In October, representatives from the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs (NDI) visited the country at the invitation of the Government. In December, the NDI mission made a number of recommendations to the Government; however, at year's end no action was taken on the recommendations.
In December 2003, the President created the MHRC (see Sections 2.d and 3). During the year, the People's Majlis did not pass legislation to define the Commission's mandate, composition, or independence; however, after visiting some of the detainees held at two detention centers, the MHRC recommended to the Government that it improve prison and detention center conditions, including the provision of access to medical care at all times and the assignment of female guards to guard female detainees. During the year, the ICRC signed an agreement with the Government to monitor prisons, but did not conduct prison visits during the year.
Section 5 Discrimination, Societal Abuses, and Trafficking in Persons
The Constitution provides for the equality of all citizens before the law, but there is no specific provision to prohibit discrimination based on race, sex, religion, disability, or social status. Women traditionally have been disadvantaged, particularly in terms of the application of Shari'a, in matters such as divorce, education, inheritance, and testimony in legal proceedings. There were no reports of official or societal discrimination against persons with HIV/AIDS.
Both non-governmental and government sources agreed that domestic violence and other forms of violence against women were not widespread; however, there were no firm data on the extent of violence against women. Police officials reported that they received few complaints of assaults against women. Rape and other violent crimes against women were extremely rare. Under Shari'a, the penalty for rape is flogging, imprisonment for up to 5 years, or banishment.
Although women traditionally have played a subordinate role in society, they participated in public life in growing numbers. Women constituted 39 percent of government employees. The literacy rate for women was 98 percent. A Gender Equality Council advised the Government on policies to help strengthen the role of women. The minimum age of marriage for women is 18 years, but earlier marriage is common.
Under Islamic practice, husbands may divorce their wives more easily than vice versa, absent any mutual agreement to divorce. Shari'a also governs intestate inheritance, granting male heirs twice the share of female heirs. A woman's testimony is equal to one-half of that of a man in matters involving adultery, finance, and inheritance (see Section 1.e.). Women who worked for wages received pay equal to that of men in the same positions.
Education is not compulsory, but there is universal access to free primary education. The percentage of school-age children in school in 2002 was: (grades 1 to 5) 99 percent; (grades 6 to 7) 95 percent; and (grades 8 to 10) 51 percent. Of the students enrolled, 49 percent were female, and 51 percent were male. In many instances, education for girls was curtailed after the seventh grade, largely because parents did not allow girls to leave their home island for an island having a secondary school.
Children's rights are incorporated into law, which specifically protects them from both physical and psychological abuse, including at the hands of teachers or parents. The Ministry of Gender, Family Development and Social Security has the authority to enforce this law and received strong popular support for its efforts. Although unable to provide an exact number, the Ministry noted that there continued to be reports of child abuse during the year, including sexual abuse. Penalties for the sexual abuse of children range from up to 3 years' imprisonment to banishment. It was not known if there were any prosecutions for child abuse or child sexual abuse during the year.
Government policy provided for equal access to educational and health programs for both male and female children.
Child labor remained a problem, primarily in agriculture, fishing, and small commercial activities, including in family enterprises. There were no reports of children being employed in the industrial sector (see Section 6.d.).
Trafficking in Persons
The law does not prohibit trafficking in persons; however, there were no reports that persons were trafficked to, from, or within the country.
Persons with Disabilities
No law specifically addresses the rights of persons with physical or mental disabilities. A 2003 government census cited 4,728 persons with disabilities; however, local NGOS claimed there were thousands more with disabilities, due to high levels of malnutrition during pregnancy. The Government has established programs and provided services for persons with disabilities, including special educational programs for hearing and visually disabled persons. Students with physical disabilities were integrated into mainstream educational programs. Families usually cared for persons with disabilities. When family care was unavailable, persons with disabilities lived in the Ministry of Gender, Family Development and Social Security-run Institute for Needy People, which also assisted elderly persons. When requested, the Government provided free medication for all persons with mental disabilities in the islands, but follow-up care was infrequent.
Section 6 Worker Rights
a. The Right of Association
While the law does not expressly prohibit unions, it recognizes neither a worker's right to form or join them nor the right to strike. Associations (such as industry associations and clubs) are allowed. In May 2003, the Government enacted a new law to strengthen the legal regime governing voluntary, not-for-profit associations. Small groups of similarly employed workers with mutual interests have formed associations, some of which include employers as well as employees. These associations have not acted as trade unions.
b. The Right to Organize and Bargain Collectively
The law does not recognize workers' rights to organize and bargain collectively. Wages in the private sector are set by contract between employers and employees and are usually based on the rates for similar work in the public sector.
There were no reports of efforts to form unions or of strikes during the year.
There are no export processing zones.
c. Prohibition of Forced or Compulsory Labor
The law does not prohibit forced or compulsory labor, including by children, and there were no reports that such practices occurred.
d. Prohibition of Child Labor and Minimum Age for Employment
The law bars children less than 14 years of age from paid or hazardous work. Government introduced guidelines prohibit employment of children under 18 by the Government and in hazardous jobs such as construction, carpentry, welding, and driving.
According to the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions, child labor remained a problem, primarily in agriculture, fishing, and small commercial activities, including in family enterprises. There were no reports of children being employed in the industrial sector. The working hours of children 14 years or older were not limited specifically by statute. A Unit for Children's Rights in the Ministry of Gender, Family Development and Social Security is responsible for monitoring compliance with the child labor regulations, but it is not charged with their enforcement. The Ministry of Employment and Labor's Employment Relations and Compliance Unit deals with child labor problems.
e. Acceptable Conditions of Work
There was no national minimum wage for the private sector, although the Government has established wage floors for government employment. These wage floors provided a decent standard of living for a worker and family. Given the severe shortage of labor, employers offered competitive pay and conditions to attract skilled workers.
There are no statutory provisions for hours of work, but the regulations require that a work contract specify the normal work and overtime hours on a weekly or monthly basis. The public sector provides a 7-hour day and a 5-day workweek.
There are no national laws governing health and safety conditions. There are regulatory requirements in certain industries such as construction and transport that employers provide a safe working environment and ensure the observance of safety measures. It was unclear whether workers could remove themselves from unsafe working conditions without risking the loss of their jobs. The Ministry of Employment and Labor's Employment Relations and Compliance Unit resolves wage and labor disputes, visits worksites, and enforces labor regulations.


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EMT 140 - 8.0 units This course is offered each semester. It prepares students to apply for certification as an Emergency Medical Technician. EMT 140 is a 8.0 unit class which combines theory and clinical experiences to enable students to seek entry level work in that field. For information regarding this course, please contact Rick Hayne, who coordinates the program: Telephone 240-1000, ext. 5838 Health Sciences Rm firstname.lastname@example.com
EMT 140 prepares students for entry-level employment as a first responder, administering emergency care to sick and injured persons. Students completing the course are most frequently interested in becoming a firefighter, paramedic, or law enforcement officer. Others utilize the program as a foundation for pursuing careers in other areas of healthcare such as nursing, physician assistant, and medicine. Upon successful course completion, students receive a certificate that permits them to apply for the State of California Certification Exam. The course integrates lecture and skills practice with equipment used in the field. Role-playing scenarios are used to provide practice using the equipment and applying classroom content. Students spend 16 - 20 hours in a health care facility observing and participating in the care of patients. One to two shifts of ambulance ride-a-long experience are also scheduled during the semester for each student. NOTE: Los Angeles County may deny certification based on prior history or conviction of a crime, acts of dishonesty, fraud, or deceit.
Glendale Community College
is not responsible for the content of external sites. Thank you for visiting the
Glendale Community College


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Welcome to the Nixon side, a side that's about a custom-built product, quality, and durability. The Nixon Newton Watch in Black/White from Nixon is a new and approved version of an older Nixon design. The Newton now comes at you funky and fresh in style, contemporary in form, and dependable in function. Minimal face offers a look that pops. Nixon detailing throughout.
- Movement: 2 Hand quartz with LED light and rotating disc display
- Case: Custom 30 meter molded polycarbonate with hardened mineral crystal, 37.75 x 37.75mm
- Band: One piece custom injected silicone with patented locking looper and polycarbonate buckle, 25.50mm wide
- 35 - 42mm from 3 to 9 o'clock position
- Can handle some rain, splashes, etc.
Nixon products MAY NOT be sold and/or delivered to addresses outside the U.S.


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Made in mid 2005. This is an old game...
Are you a Star Wars light saber battle, Jedi Knight and Sith Lord fan? If you are, then play Sabermania!!
Set in the near future. After watching Star Wars, the light saber concept became so popular that manufacturers start developing flash sabers and light sabers. A new sport (like Kendo) emerged, involving saber fights using flash sabers and ligh sabers. That sport is called Sabermania!!
The Sabermania arena is surrounded by an aura of darkness. Can you stop the darkness from shrouding Earth?


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Hello, I play keyboards (mainly hammond organ) in a band and my ears are suffering BADLY. It seems like there are so many options out there, dual drivers, tripple, quad, but no way to test them. Are all companies the same? I'm going for the custom molded ones and I have researched a bunch, but still have no better idea of what to go with. Any help is much appreciated. I like heavy bass, is the difference between 2, 3, and 4 drivers really that big? any suggestions? thanks a bunch,
-The Dr,


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Looks like MVC3 isn't the only big series mash-up coming out.
The idea of the two biggest fighting franchises today going at it has always been pretty cool, but to see it actually happening is groundbreaking.
All the cool matches that could occur between these legendary rosters is freakin immense. Still a long ways off, but damn if it's not exciting.


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A great two days of rodeo took place in Emery County on Friday and Saturday. Friday the Carbon High rodeo team hosted their event at the Castle Dale arena due to construction at their home arena. Saturday morning dawned crisp and clear as hundreds of competitors joined in the Emery High rodeo. They competed in barrel racing, pole bending, goat tying, calf roping, team roping, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling and the ever popular bull riding.
Three Emery High senior rodeo members were honored at the rodeo including Kashe Potter, Erin Gordon and Carson Cox. A beautiful quilt donated by Beulah Oveson was raffled off to raise money for the Emery High Rodeo club. Kevin Gordon is the rodeo advisor for the team.


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can't find the post anymore, but I am sure I have read somewhere that he has a cycle of 2ns
I just tried direct port manipulation and it goes down to ns range completely stable
Its 60ns on my signal
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Used Elite Z Flash at 175 grams with no ink.
Copied from the Discraft website:
This maximum distance driver is one of our fastest and has superior glide and control. With a stability rating of 1.5, the Flash appeals to a wide range of disc golfers and could easily be your longest driver. Try one and learn why players consistently call it "magical."


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By Brendan Conway
The price of gold is skidding this morning to the lowest since December 2011. In a nettlesome turn for bulls, there's no "new" reason to sell gold. Just more selling.
Commerzbank's commodity strategists are tying matters back to exchange-traded fund outflows, noting that holdings in the SPDR Gold Trust (GLD), the biggest gold bullion ETF, have slumped by more than 12% since the beginning of the year — to the lowest level since May 2010. "Investors have withdrawn a good 24 tons of gold from ETFs in the past two days of trading," they write.
But pinning a price move on ETFs, assuming you can even do that, begs the question of why investors are redeeming their ETF shares in the first place. It sure looks like a case of selling that begets more selling.
The strategists point to one small silver lining, if you can call it that: At least some of the activity is suggestive of investors taking hold of gold physically:
Some of the outflows are likely to have been due to physical deliveries rather than solely to shares being sold. This is suggested by the fact that we have also seen a significant reduction in COMEX stocks recently, meaning that gold has been physically delivered on the futures market too. This would point to investors displaying an increased preference for security.
Gold's spot price is down 1.7% to $1,538 in morning trading, after cutting its April loss to 1.9% on Thursday. SPDR Gold Trust and iShares Gold Trust (IAU) are down 1.5%. Market Vectors Gold Miners (GDX) is falling 2.7% and Market Vectors Junior Gold Miners (GDXJ) is off by 3.1%.


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Earth Day in North Dakota Celebrated with School Children and Tree Planting
Written by Jane Grant, Public Information Officer
The spirit of the first Earth Day, 40 years ago, continued this year in Finley as North Dakota Rural Development State Director Jasper Schneider joined Rural Utilities Representative John Padalino, Finley Mayor Larry Amundson, local leaders, and Finley school children and the community to celebrate the announcement of a water and environmental project totaling $1.7 million.
"USDA Rural Development is proud to be a partner in this project helping the city of Finley build and upgrade essential infrastructure demonstrating President Obama's continued efforts to improve the quality of life for rural residents," State Director Schneider said.
Manholes, sewer mains and sewer lines will be replaced, improving water quality for Finley residents.
The school children played a major role in celebrating Earth Day starting with Boy Scouts presenting the colors and the students leading the Pledge of Allegiance. They shared their ideas and rapped a song about how each person can play a role in creating a cleaner, healthier planet. To demonstrate their commitment to the planet, the students walked back to school picking up trash along the way.
An American Linden tree was planted in Centennial Park, to serve as a reminder of Earth Day 2010.
North Dakota Rural Development State Director Jasper Schneider (left) shovels during a tree planting ceremony celebrating Earth Day 2010, in Finley, ND. Assisting are Finley Mayor Larry Amundson (center) and Special Assistant for Rural Utilities John Padalino (right).


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Caris Lopez
Funeral services for lifelong Towaoc resident Caris Lopez will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, April 17 at the Esther Lopez residence, 340 Bear Mesa Lane, Towaoc. Elwood Kent will officiate. Interment will follow at Towaoc Cemetery.
A wake has been scheduled for Wednesday, April 16, starting at 5 p.m. at the Esther Lopez residence.
Caris was born October 23, 1989, in Cortez, the daughter of Boyd and Esther (Wall) Lopez. She passed away at St. Mary's Hospital in Grand Junction, Colo. on Sunday, April 13, 2014, at the age of 24.
Loving the outdoors, Caris especially enjoyed fishing. She also liked to cook. Caris always had a smile on her face. She loved being around people and making them laugh. Caris was a very loving person and will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
Surviving Caris are her mother, Esther Lopez of Towaoc; her father, Boyd Lopez of Towaoc; her sister, Benita Hayes of Towaoc; her brother, Boris Lopez of Towaoc; her maternal grandmother, Leora Knight of Towaoc; her aunt, Glenda Badbear of Towaoc; her uncles, Bailey Cotonuts and wife, Fawnda of Towaoc; Norman Wall and companion, Glynis Wall of Towaoc, Alton House of Towaoc, Darwin House of Towaoc, and Patrick Knight of Towaoc; her friend, Shyvaughn Yellow of Towaoc; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Services are under the direction of Ertel Funeral Home. For further information or to send condolences, log on to www.ertelfuneralhome.com and click on the obituary section.


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The X-Change Files explores the intersections of science and entertainment, regularly taking a look at the ways in which science is portrayed in film and television. Learn More
Get a behind-the-scenes look at The Exchange's consult for the hit series. Read More
Phrases like "sense of entitlement" and "out of touch with reality" described every prominent person mentioned throughout the night.
Words like "arrogance" and "narcissism" were used repeatedly.
High atop the gorgeous SoHo House last Thursday evening, in a room filled with some of Hollywood's finest and most scientifically-curious minds, a discussion was had about why some of the most famous names in history act the way they do.
However, those referenced weren't quite the characters you might expect.
When everyone took their seats and the lights began to dim, Dr. Mary Ellen O'Toole, formerly a profiler for the FBI, took her place in front of an audience as engaged to a subject matter as I'd ever seen before.
The Science and Entertainment Exchange is a nonprofit program of the National Academy of Sciences.


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Health benefit elections must be made through Banner Self Service between Thursday, Nov. 1, and Friday, Nov. 30. Elections received after Nov. 30 will not be processed. This is the only time to switch plans and add or cancel dependents on a current plan, unless there is a qualifying event.
All employees are encouraged to attend a meeting and learn about the benefits package for 2013. For more information, visit the Benefits Home Page or email email@example.com.
The 2013 Vitality Wellness Subsidy saves an employee $50 a month and an employee plus spouse $75 a month. To receive the Vitality discount on medical insurance, employees and spouses covered by Saint Louis University United HealthCare medical insurance must complete at Health Risk Assessment by Nov. 30, through the Vitality website and www.powerofvitality.com; and a Vitality Check by Nov. 30, whether at TenetCare, by a primary care physician or through a Walgreens Take Care Clinic.
Vitality Checks are available by appointment at TenetCare, located in SLU Hospital West Pavilion or by calling 866-758-4677.
Saint Louis University's 2013 Benefits Open Enrollment Meetings are scheduled for the following dates:
Learning Resource Center (LRC)
11 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Nov. 6, in Auditorium C
11 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Nov. 13, in Auditorium C
Noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 20, in Auditorium C
11 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Nov. 27, in Auditorium C
Busch Student Center (BSC)
Noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 7, in room 251
Noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 14, in room 173
Noon to 1 p.m. Monday, Nov. 19, in the Saint Louis Room
Noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 29, in room 251
In addition to representatives from Human Resources and Lockton, the University's insurance vendors, will be in attendance, including United HealthCare, Express Scripts and Delta Dental.


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Charles G. Wilson, founding agronomist of the USGA Green Sections Turf Advisory service, and head agronomist, sales manager and director of Milorganite fertilizer, passed away on September 23rd, 2013 at the age of 93.
Charlie Wilson had a profound impact on the turf industry throughout his career. During his time with Milorganite, Charlie traveled the country visiting turf distributors, golf courses and speaking at agronomy conferences. He founded the O.J. Noer foundation for turfgrass research, an organization that has provided over 1 million dollars in research grants since its conception. Charlie also spearheaded the Wisconsin Golf Turf Symposium, each year, golf course superintendents from around the country gather for the conference, where trends and studies are discussed by some of the foremost minds in the business. This year will mark the 48th annual turf symposium, Milorganite continues to support this historic educational conference.
Charlie Wilson was presented with the 2012 Distinguished Service Award by the Wisconsin Golf Course Superintendents Association. To read more about Charlie's remarkable career:
Golf Course Industry columnist Monroe Miller devoted a column in tribute to Wilson's career and impact on the turf industry.
Charlie G. Wilson Receives Distinguished Service Award By David Brandenburg
Milorganite: Organic Nitrogen Fertilizer for Better Lawns and Gardens, Naturally