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Childbirth Preparation-Camden Campus
Date & Time
July 12, 2014 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Maternity Care Center (Google Map)
These classes are held 8 a.m.-5 p.m. the second Saturday of each month. Each class includes the Breastfeeding 101 class and a tour of the Camden Campus Maternity Care Center. Lunch and snacks are provided. Call for more information to register. MUST REGISTER by the 30th week of pregnancy. Bring receipt.
Registration Deadline
May 09, 2014 5:00 PM
Registration Deadline has Passed
Registration/Pricing Options
Registration Instructions
912-576-6255 or firstname.lastname@example.com


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Canon Kids Park 2014 - Kids can learn a lot in a fun way
During the upcoming summer vacation season for schools, Canon will hold Canon Kids Park 2014 and provide multiple events for kids to learn something related to cameras in an enjoyable way.
During the upcoming summer vacation season for schools, Canon will hold Canon Kids Park 2014 and provide multiple events for kids to learn something related to cameras in an enjoyable way.
Tokyo Street Shots
• Collection 4 - SET #4 •
Huawei Japan, Chinese telecommunications equipment and services company, announced they will start selling their SIM-free devices after late June in Japan.
The first product will be the Android 4.3 smartphone "Ascend G6" and will be sold through multiple electronics retail stores such as Bic Camera, Edion, and Nojima. Ascend G6 was unveiled in the Mobile World Congress 2014 that took place last February.
Terrie's Take is a selection of Japan-centric news collected and collated by long-time resident and media business professional Terrie Lloyd. AkihabaraNews is pleased to present Terrie's learned perspective; we all could use another take on the news - here's Terrie's:
AkihabaraNews on YouTube
The weekly roundup of our new, original tech videos from here in Tokyo and all over Japan, plus favorites from our partners and the best clips from the past week's posts - subscribe and automate!
This week it seems that J-Convenience store giant Lawson has become something of startup funder, and a professor of sports and stuff at Tsukuba University has declared the FIFA 2014 World Cup ball to be "MADE OF NINJA THROWING STARS!!" ...okay, maybe the translation is off a bit on that last part.
• • •
Ride a bicycle and gain additional benefits!
Thanko's new Portable Wind Turbine Generator will make you feel lucky every time you ride a bicycle or motor bike.
Once you ride a bicycle or motorbike that has the portable wind turbine generator attached to the handle, it starts generating enough electricity for 2 size AA rechargeable batteries.

subset: commoncrawl


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We'll respond shortly.
I have previously written about how to use IntelliJ to set up multi-project support in RubyMine. I am happy to say that that hack is no longer necessary. Multi-project support was built into RubyMine 6! It makes component-based Ruby and Rails applications with multiple unbuilt gems and engines even nicer to develop.
Before multi-project support tests for components would not run without problems in RubyMine. Multi-project support fixes this and you no longer have to open one RubyMine window for every component you are working on.
It is pretty simple to enable multi-project support in your project:
RubyMine adds your engines and gems as libraries. As such they will not be searched in fuzzy searches. To fix this check the box "Include non-project files" at the top of the search box. When using shortcuts you can quickly check that box by repeating the shortcut with which you opened the box. In my case that is
command + shift + o.
RubyMine is a great editor for Ruby and Rails projects. RubyMine 6 makes a huge step in supporting component-based Ruby and Rails applications properly.


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Sasckya Porto >> See More Playmates
Galleries in Full HD!
Galleries in Full HD!
Say olá to Sasckya Porto, Brazilian supermodel and Miss December 2007. She's tall – 5'10" in bare feet – and the hottest thing this side of the equator, with long, dark hair, brown eyes and an intriguing Portuguese accent. She's from Recife, in the east Brazilia...
Get this complete pictorial in stunning resolution & HD video! View Full Gallery!


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Prepare the batter ahead of time, and tuck it away in your freezer. Or for individual servings, freeze 2 tablespoons batter in each section of ice-cube trays; when frozen, place cubes in freezer bag.
If you're having a large party, avoid congestion by placing drinks at one table and appetizers at another. If using disposable dishes, place wastebaskets throughout the house. Or if using regular dishes and glasses, place trays throughout the house and have someone frequently empty them of dirty dishes.


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Taryn by Taryn Rose Tiara Boot
Sorry, this item is sold out!
Looks like you've got more shoe shopping to do - have fun!
Looks like you've got more shoe shopping to do - have fun!
Item # 254060
Dress up any outfit in sophisticated style with the Taryn by Taryn Rose Tiara. This leather boot will give your look a lift with sassy details from corset style back lacing to a pointed toe.
- Leather upper
- Back corset lacing
- Almond toe
- 14" shaft height, partial inside zipper
- 14" calf circumference
- 3" covered heel
- Rubber sole
- Imported
By: HeatherL
Location: Richmond, VA
November 01, 2013
Pretty but for wider calfs
"These boots are beautiful and comfortable however they were too wide throughout the leg so I had to return."
By: groovyshoelover007
Location: Colorado
April 09, 2013
Taryn by Taryn Rose Tiara Boot
"What a bargain! It's soft, and very comfortable for heeled shoes. Classy real great buy on my part!"
By: otv1023
Location: New York, NY
March 06, 2013
"I was nervous to buy these boots, because the circumference that is stated is too small for my athletic calves. I'm happy to report that this 17 inch calf is super duper happy in these boots. They're so comfortable and my boot fits perfectly. I would recommend these 100% to anyone with calf issues or not."
By: hking
Location: washington, dc
October 23, 2012
"These boots are beautiful! Although I only tried them on at home, they are incredibly comfortable and look very hip and sexy. They will look perfect with skirts and dresses. I can't wait to wear them!"
Click anywhere to close this.


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MESU Fishing Raptor Swim Jig
Combining elements from a traditional Texas-rig, wobble-head, and skirted jig, the MESU Raptor Swim Jig utilizes an innovative design that gives trailers more action, and anglers more fish. The secret behind the MESU Raptor Jig is its patent-pending free-hanging hook design. This free-swinging design gives the MESU Raptor Swim Jig all of the action of a wobble head and, unlike other jigs, allows for trailers to be Texas-rigged.
The innovative, patent-pending, free-hanging hook design even gives anglers the option to switch out the Lazer Trokar TK 120 4/0 hook if desired. For even more attraction, the head of the MESU Raptor Swim Jig is covered with a UV-reflective finish that grabs bass' attention in deeper waters. It is also festooned with a premium skirting as well. Offered in a number of proven colors, the MESU Raptor Swim Jig takes aspects of design from a handful of techniques to give anglers one highly effective lure for tracking down bass.
6 Colors
More From MESU Fishing Jigs
Customer Reviews
Comments: Bough the 1/4 oz in East Kansas Craw. The hook seems a bit oversize so I changed it out and put a Yum Dinger on as a trailer. At one point my biggest fish of the year was on this jig. It comes through grass and scum great which is crucial in the scum filled ponds I fish in.
From: Phil: Fort Collins, CO 6/20/16
Comments: Love this jig. Aside from punch rigs there are very few jigs I can use on the local weed mats, but this one has been great. Had much more success when I slowed down my retrieve.
From: SB: USA 7/5/15
Comments: Absolutely love it! I wish I could post a pic; got my personal best largemouth with the purple/pumpkin paired with a sweet beav. I'd much rather T-Rig like this lure allows than use a weed guard (I don't trust em). And with a Trokar hook, how can you go wrong?
From: Patrick: Milwaukee, WI 6/9/14
Comments: I am very excited that I can get these at warehouse now. I bought these the first time at a tournament on Grand Lake OK by FAR this is the best swim/flipping jig I have thrown.
From: Matt: Afton OK


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Lagucik, the sophomore from Edmonds-Woodway High School, had a solid performance in the 5-0 loss to defending NWAACC Champion, Peninsula College on Saturday.
SCC is now 0-8-1 on the season plays Highline Community College on Wednesday at 4:15 p.m. at Dolphin Field on the SCC campus.
SCC and HCC played in the semi-finals of the NWAACC Soccer Championship last year with Highline coming out on top, 3-1. Highline then lost to Peninsula College the NWAACC Championship.
Lagucik passes the ball down field
The Pirates of Peninsula College, the defending NWAACC Champions, scored four goals in the first 21 minutes of the match in route to a 5-0 victory on Saturday over the Shoreline Dolphins in Port Angeles, WA. PC scored the final goal in the 88th minute. SCC falls to 0-8-1 on the year and 0-3-0 in the region, but still only trail by 3 points first place in the Northern Region as only Edmonds Community College has a victory in the region. SCC plays Highline Community College on Wednesday at home at 4 p.m. in a rematch of the NWAACC Semi-finals last year where SCC's 8 game winning streak came to an end in a 3-1 loss.
NWAACC Northern Region Men's Soccer Standings:
Skagit Valley
Connor Barton, a freshman from Snohomish High School, is named SCC Men's Soccer Player of the Week as he scored the tying goal in the 88th minute against the Community College of Spokane to lead SCC to a 2-2 tie and break a 7 game losing streak for the Dolphins.
SCC is 0-7-1 on the season and travel to Port Angeles, WA on Saturday to face the defending NWAACC Champions, Peninsula Collage at 2 p.m. Peninsula is 7-0-0 on the season.
Connor Barton
The SCC Men's Soccer Team broke their 7 game losing streak with a 2-2 tie against the Community College of Spokane on Monday in Spokane, WA. SCC tied the match with 2 minutes to go on a goal by Connor Barton from an assist by Nick Wright. After a scoreless first half, Tom Hering opened the scoring with a goal in the 53rd minute only to have Spokane tie the match 1 minute later. Spokane went ahead at the 81 minute mark, only to have Barton score his dramatic goal seven minutes later.
SCC is now 0-7-1 on the season, Spokane goes to 1-3-3. SCC plays defending NWAACC Champion Peninsula College on Saturday in Port Angeles, WA at 2 p.m.
Connor Barton scored tying goal
The Shoreline Community College's Men's Soccer Team broke through their scoreless streak, as Jeremy Wentzel tied the game in the 62 minute, but the Dolphins fell to the Tacoma CC Titans on Saturday 3-1. SCC had not scored since the first half of the second game of the season against Chemeketa CC at the NWAACC Friendlies Tournament until the second half of yesterday's game. A time span of 10 halves over 6 games. SCC has been outscored 23-3 so far this season.
But in 2010, the SCC men's soccer team started out 0-7-2 and rebounded to win 8 straight games and go the NWAACC Final Four at the Starfire Complex in Tukwila.
The Dolphins face the Community College of Spokane on Monday in Spokane at Noon and hope to break through as the Bigfoot are struggling themselves, with a 1-3-1 record. But after that, SCC faces Peninsula College, the defending NWAACC Champions and Highline CC, who knocked SCC out of the playoffs in 2011, with a 3-1 victory at the NWAACC Soccer Final Four.
A SCC Sandwich as a SCC player isstuck between two opponents recently
The struggling SCC Men's Soccer Team was shutout for the fourth straight game in the 5-0 loss on Wednesday at Dolphin Field. The match was even until the 25th minute when a SCC player was red carded and OC given a penalty kick. Olympic scored and led 1-0 at half.
OC took advantage of the Dolphins playing short in the second half and scored 3 times. SCC made matters worse, with an "Own" goal as well.
SCC is 0-6-0 on the year, 0-1-0 in the region now. SCC plays at Tacoma Community College on Saturday at 2 p.m.
Jake Lagucik shoots the ball down the field
Sophomore Greg Wolfe was named the SCC Men's Soccer Player of the Week for his defensive play in the mid-field for the Dolphins during the SCC squad two games this past week. SCC drooped games to Walla Walla CC and the Seattle Sounders FC 18 & Under team. SCC is 0-4 on the early season. SCC faces Tacoma CC and the CC of Spokane on the road this weekend.
The Shoreline Community College Men's Soccer Team dropped a 4-0 game to the Seattle Sounders FC 18 & Under squad on Saturday at the Starfire Complex in Tukwila, WA. The SCC squad is now 0-3 at Starfire so far this year, dropping two matches at the complex during the NWAACC "Friendlies" tournament last week. SCC is now 0-5 on the season.
The Dolphins will face Olympic College on Wednesday at Dolphin Field on the SCC campus at 4:15 PM. This is the first counting game in the NWAACC Northern Region for SCC, as SCC starts mandatory crossover play with the NWAACC Western Division. Mandatory crossover games count in each regions' standings.
Olympic is 1-0-1 on the season, defeating the Community College of Spokane and tying Wenatchee Valley Community College at the "Friendlies" tournament. SCC has struggled on both sides of the ball so far, allowing 15 goals in 5 games, and only scoring 2. But SCC started out last season 0-7-2 and won 8 straight games during the second half of the year to capture the Northern Region and go to the NWAACC Final Four.
Admission to Wednesday's match is $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for non-SCC students, seniors and active military. SCC students with ID are free to attend.
SCC Men's Soccer Home Soccer Matches for 2011:
SCC Goalie Bryan Wrightmakes a save at a recent game
Freshman Jakob Hibbard from King's High School was named the SCC Men's Soccer Player of the Week as he scored the first goal of the year for SCC in the opening match against Clark College from about 30 yards out. The Clark College team came back to win the match. SCC is 0-4-0 on the season and played the Trinity Lutheran College JVs on Wednesday and lost 1-0.
The Shoreline Community College's Men's Soccer Team dropped a 1-0 match to Trinity Lutheran College's JV Team on Wednesday at the Dolphin Soccer Field on the SCC campus.
The Dolphins fall to 0-4-0 on the season and suffered their second straight shutout as the SCC squad struggles on offense, scoring only 2 goals in the four games so far this season.
Shoreline has a week off and will face Olympic College on Wednesday, September 14th at home in a NWAACC Northern Region counting game for SCC against the Western Region Rangers from OC. The Western and Northern regions play a crossover that schedule that counts in their respective divisions records.
Game time next Wednesday is 4:15 p.m. The SCC Lady Dolphin Team will face the Olympic College women's team as well. The opening women's match is scheduled for 2 p.m. The Lady Dolphins are 0-1-2 so far this season.
Goal Keeper Bryan Wright
The Shoreline Community College Soccer Teams were swept by Walla Walla Community College on Monday at the Dolphin Soccer Field on the Shoreline campus.
The SCC Men's Soccer Team battled a tough Walla Walla team to a 2-0 loss on Monday at the Dolphin Soccer Field. SCC played much better in this match than its games last week at the NWAACC "Friendlies" tournament where it lost 3-1 and 5-1.
The Dolphin defense played well, holding WWCC to one goal each half but again, its offense struggled, only having four shots on goal for the game. SCC scored first in its two previous losses, only to struggle the rest of the time and its defense unable to slow down their opponents.
Kyle Menchaca led WWCC scoring both goals in the game.
SCC is now 0-3-0 on the season, but is reminded, it started the season in 2010 0-7-2 before winning 8 straight games and reaching the final four of the NWAACC Championship. SCC plays Trinity Lutheran College on Wednesday, September 7th at 3:00 PM at the Dolphin Soccer Field. Trinity Lutheran is from Everett, WA. Walla Walla is now 2-1 on the season.


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Former Excellus BlueCross BlueShield CEO David Klein collected a $12.9 million retirement bonus last year, the health insurer revealed in its annual state Department of Financial Services filing.
Klein stepped down at the end of 2012 after several decades with the non-profit insurance carrier.
New York's largest non-profit insurer and its second-largest health insurance carrier, Excellus runs Blues plans in the Rochester and Finger Lakes regions, Central and Northern New York, the Utica-Rome region and operates a non-blues, non-profit HMO in Western New York. It serves some 1.8 million members.
In the annual disclosure, which lays out payments to top-earning executives and the largest payments to third parties, Excellus did not report additional retirement payments to former Chief Financial Officer Emil Duda.
Duda, who like Klein spent some four decades at Excellus, stepped down at the end of 2011. The next year he collected $10.95 million in retirement pay.
In a statement, Excellus chairman Randall Clark explained Klein's retirement package as having been set by "multiyear employment and performance agreements made by the board that followed the executive compensation process and industry norms at the time the agreements were made."
That statement hewed closely to one Clark issued last year explaining Duda's retirement pay. Both executive's retirement pacts include a non-compete clauses intended to keep them from going to a competitor, the Excellus chairman said.
In 2012, the company paid Klein $5.2 million, a 174 percent boost over his previous year's pay of $1.9 million. His 2012 compensation included a more than $2 million retention bonus, which Excellus at the time explained as meant to keep Klein from jumping ship.
In 2013, only one of the company's top earners, President and CEO Christopher Booth, whose 2013 compensation totaled $1.7 million, made more than $1 million.
Over the past year, Booth said, the company shaved some $50 million off its combined administrative and operating expenses, achieving a 7.4 percent reduction. In 2013, it paid out approximately $5.7 billion in in claims, a $416 million, or 7.9 percent, increase over the previous year.
"The approach we've taken it to balance the mission of providing affordable access to coverage with the need maintain financially strong by making smart investments and maintaining discipline on administrative costs," Booth said in a statement.
In 2012, Excellus paid Booth—then president and chief operating officer—$1.6 million.
In 2013, the next most senior officers after Booth—Excellus CFO Dorothy Coleman and its general counsel and chief administrative officer, Stephen Sloan—made $810,000 and $746,000. In 2012, Coleman made $826,000 and Sloan was paid $688,875.
In 2012, Klein's compensation as CEO was $3.8 million. Duda's 2011 compensation totaled $1.6 million, up from $1.36 million in the previous year.
Last year, Excellus realized net income of $52.6 million on $6.3 billion in premium revenue, the state filing shows.
The insurer's net gain of $138.9 million on investments offset a $72.9 million net operating loss and a $13.4 million income tax expense, the filing shows. As of Dec. 31, its reserves stood at $1.4 billion.
(c) 2014 Rochester Business Journal. To obtain permission to reprint this article, call 585-546-8303 or e-mail email@example.com.
Former Excellus CEO received $12.9 million retirement bonus
Former Excellus BlueCross BlueShield CEO David Klein collected a $12.9 million retirement bonus last year, the health insurer revealed in its annual state Department of Financial Services filing.
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Polly Wright and Francis Olvez-Wilshaw,
University of the Arts London students
For one night only, this Friday 11 November, we, the University of the Arts London, are exhibiting alongside Grayson Perry's exhibition The Tomb of the Unknown Craftsmanas part of the Grayson Perry Late event at the British Museum.
I have been fortunate enough to sit on the committee of students helping to curate the event. From the written proposals to meeting my fellow students and artists, it has been an interesting journey, one of excitement, fun and insight… and we only have a few days to go!
I feel I am speaking on behalf of all involved when I say it is an exceptional experience to not only be exhibiting in the British Museum but also to be connected to the loved and respected Grayson Perry. This was apparent from the proposals we received as they were filled with enthusiastic appraisal for the British Museum as an institution and for Grayson's work as an influential artist. Our students' are committed to creating works suitable to communicate this inspiration. Now, in our final stages of preparation, I can already reflect upon what is a wide array of idiosyncratic ideas, across all mediums, which heightens my excitement for the night.
Meeting everyone behind the projects has been great. Whilst hearing these talented artists animatedly explaining their projects I have become more aware of the raw passion behind their work. I think this will be particularly apparent on the night. The night will be an exhibition of a wide array of interesting and colourful ideas created by a mixture of solo and collaborative works.
The performance piece Touching Death – A Wake has been a particularly interesting project to watch develop and to hear the extraordinary story behind its conception. The connections between the artists and the pure shock ability of the live wake of a real person on the night are bound to be a thought-provoking, public way of exploring death on a dramatically real level.
Showcasing 25 works, from fashion to craft, discos to pilgrimages, I can assure you that the night will be both thought-provoking and entertaining. I am personally excited to watch the space transform – we hope it will highlight aspects within the British Museum's expansive collection as well as support Grayson Perry's work.
I am going to leave you with a list of words the artists have used to sum up Grayson Perry: Technicolor, eccentric, genius, revolutionary, cocktail, hilarious, crackers… I hope this gets you excited! See you there!
Find out more about the Grayson Perry Late event.
Grayson Perry: The Tomb of the Unknown Craftsman
is supported by AlixPartners, with Louis Vuitton.
Book tickets now
Filed under: Grayson Perry: The Tomb of the Unknown Craftsman


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KHL Highlights: Grabovski and Datsyuk. Just enjoy it while it lasts...
Steve Dangle
October 28 2012 09:37PM
Mikhail Grabovski (or Mikhail Grabovsky as the KHL likes to call him) looks damn fine playing with Pavel Datsyuk. Also check out former New York Rangers pick Tomas Zaborsky lighting up for 4 goals in one game.
Grabovski scores, Datsyuk puts up three points, and Alex Radulov gets his 500th.
Tomas Zaborsky nets 4 goals in one game. He's just the 6th KHL player to ever do that.
And all the goodness wrapped into one video.
And in case you missed it last time, here are the past week's Top 10 goals, saves, and hits videos.
KHL's Top 10 Goals of the Week!
KHL's Top 10 Saves of the Week!
KHL's Top 10 Hits of the Week!
Кулаки гораздо легче получить во время локаута...
You gotta nut up for your site hosting charges dude.
KHL highlights All good, but can we get some OKC Baron love out here too?
KHL highlights All good, but can we get some OKC Baron love out here too?
Just renewed this morning. Should be back up soon :P
October 29 2012, 04:01PM
The 1990 CSKA vs Canadiens is one of the best games I've seen. Now the Soviets have home ice advantage. Mtl was the right team to have trying to adapt. They could hit and skate, but not too much finish. I think Bure potted in his own rebound, but can't tell as the use triangles for letters...


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Time: June 8, 2011 from 8am to 4pm
Location: W Cape, Belville
Street: Belville
City/Town: Cape Town
Website or Map: http://worksucks.co.za/last-w…
Event Type: workshop
Organized By: Yusuf Mahomedy
Latest Activity: Feb 26, 2016
Export to Outlook or iCal (.ics)
With many local organisations using or planning to adopt total cost packages, it remains a controversial issue for management & the workforce alike.
This workshop authoritatively assists participants to decide whether their organisation should adopt, retain or dump total cost packages.
Based upon research over the past decade across corporates & employees, it covers the HR, finance, tax, legal and talent position.
SAICA Certified Course qualifies for CPD hours
Public Workshops: Johannesburg/Cape Town
In House: National
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Youth hostels awarded the Solar Prize 2011
An honour for Swiss Youth Hostels: they received the Swiss Solar Prize on the 10th October 2011. For Zermatt, this is a further milestone for sustainability. Because the Youth Hostel Zermatt was the first Swiss youth hostel with the Minergie standard.
"The Solar Prize is another confirmation for us", says Ulrich Zürcher, manager of the Youth Hostel Zermatt. Confirmation "of what we experience every summer" adds Zürcher. Because the solar cells of the Jugi Zermatt provide the hot water from March to November.
The Youth Hostel Zermatt was rebuilt in 2003 and received the Steinbock Label for sustainability and the EU Environmental Label shortly afterwards. The guests also noticed from time to time that things in the house are really aimed at saving with regard to energy, says Ulrich Zürcher: "If somebody leaves a window open in cold weather, the radiator in the room switches off automatically." Another Zermatt company also won the same prize in 2010: The Zermatt Bergbahnen AG for the solar restaurant by the Matterhorn glacier paradise (Klein Matterhorn), which was opened at that time.
Growing business
The Youth Hostel Zermatt is a very popular accommodation for young and old, for guests from both Switzerland and abroad. The atmosphere reflects this: it is easy-going and has an international character. The hostel has 174 sleeping places in 47 rooms. Around 31,000 overnight stays are generated every year.
Swiss Youth Hostels is a Non-Profit Organisation encompassing 54 youth hostels which, together, generated 945,000 overnight stays in 2010. And it's no longer only young people who stay overnight at youth hostels: Families, groups and older persons have been among the guests for some time now. Even in Zermatt the youngest are only a few weeks old! "Our oldest regular guest is 93 years old", says Ulrich Zürcher.


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Graduates of our programs are actively recruited by employers around the world. Due to the increasing dependence on technology, graduates can find stimulating careers in most areas of business, industry, and government.
We are turning to computing for solutions to every major challenge facing our world, from conquering disease and eliminating hunger to improving education and protecting the environment.
For more information, contact the Department of Computer Science at email@example.com or 936.468.2508.


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Bear Canyon Mining LLC
Highway 31
Huntington, Utah 84528
Kenneth A. Rushton, trustee for the bankruptcy estate of CW Mining
Company doing business as Co-Op Mining Company, hereby submits an
application for a permit renewal for the Bear Canyon Mine, permit
number C/015/0025. The permit area encompasses approximately 10,920.45
acres for which the legal description is provided below.
Permit Area
A. T16S, R7E SLBM Sec. 14 S1/2
Sec. 23 E1/2, E1/2 W1/2
Sec. 24 W1/2, W1/2 E1/2
Sec. 25 NW1/4 NW1/4, E1/2 NW1/4, SW1/4 SW1/4, E1/2 SW1/4
Sec. 26 NE1/4 NE1/4, NW1/4 NE1/4, N1/2 SW1/4
NE1/4 and the access/haul road and topsoil storage area
T16S, R8E SLBM Sec. 7 NE1/4, NE1/4
Sec. 8 NW1/4, W1/4 E1/2, N1/2 SW 1/4, SE1/4 SW1/4
Sec. 16 All
Sec. 17 All
Sec. 21 E1/2 NW1/4, NE1/4, N1/2 SE1/4
B. T16S, R7E SLBM Sec. 1 Lots 1 and 2, S1/2 NE1/4, SE1/4
Sec. 10 N1/2, N1/2 S1/2, SE1/4 SW1/4, S1/2 SE1/4
Sec. 11 All
Sec. 12 All
Sec. 13 All
Sec. 14 NE1/4, E1/2 NW1/4
Sec. 24 E1/2, E1/2,
Sec. 25 E1/2
T16S, R8E SLBM Sec. 18 SW1/4, SW1/4
Sec. 19 S1/2 NW1/4, SW1/4, SW1/4 SE1/4, N1/2 SE1/4,
Sec. 20 S1/2 NW1/4, N1/2 SW1/4
Sec. 30 W1/2, W1/2 NE1/4, Nw1/4 SE1/4
C. T16S, R7E SLBM Sec. 25 SW1/4 NW1/4, NW1/4 SW1/4
T16S, R8E SLBM Sec. 6 Lots 11-14, E1/2 SW1/4, W1/2
Sec. 7 all except NE1/4 NE1/4
Sec. 8 SW1/4, SW1/4
Sec. 18 N1/2, SE1/4, N1/2 SW1/4, SE1/4 SW1/4
D. T16S, R8E SLBM Sec. 31 NE1/4 NW1/4, NW1/4 NE1/4
E. T6S, R8E SLBM Sec. 19 Lot 1, NE1/4 NW1/4, N1/2 NE1/4
Sec. 20 N1/2 NW1/4, NE1/4, NE1/4, NE1/4
A surety bond is filed with the Division of Oil, Gas and Mining in
the amount of $1,825,000.00, and is payable to the State of Utah,
Division of Oil, Gas and Mining (DOGM), and the Office of Surface
Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM).
A copy of the permit renewal application may be examined at the
office of the Division of Oil, Gas and Mining, 1594 West North Temple,
Suite 1210, Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-5801 and also at the Recorders
Office located in the Emery County Courthouse in Castle Dale, Utah.
Written comments, objections, or requests for an informal conference
may be submitted to the Salt Lake City address. Said comments must be
submitted thirty (30) days from the date of the last publication of
this notice. This notice is being published to comply with the Surface
Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977, and State and Federal
regulations promulgated pursuant to said Act.
Published in the Emery County Progress on October 5, 12, 19 and 26,


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Strap a mask and flippers onto your imagination and chart a course to Shedd Aquarium. Have you ever seen eye-to-eye with a dolphin? Said hello to a penguin on a stroll to the South Pole? Immersed yourself in a flooded Amazon forest? Or met a friendly beluga whale? You can do it all at Shedd! Photo courtesy of the John G. Shedd Aquarium
Discover Sue, the largest and most complete T. rex ever found! At the Field Museum you can also get a bug's-eye view in the Underground Adventure, descend into an Egyptian tomb, be dazzled in the Hall of Gems, come nose to nose with the infamous man-eating lions of Tsavo, and walk among dinosaurs in Evolving Planet.
Museum of Science and Industry
A world of discovery awaits at the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere. Explore more than 800 exhibits, including the legendary U-505, a German submarine captured on the high seas during World War II; take off on a Boeing 727 airplane for a simulated cross-country flight; descend down a mineshaft for a tour of a realistic coal mine; and witness robots at work in a toy factory. Take a seat at the museum's Omnimax Theater and watch awesome 3D flicks on a giant screen.
The second-largest art museum in the United States is home to more than 300,000 works of art, including "American Gothic" by Grant Wood, Edward Hopper's "Nighthawks" and more. Renowned for its rare master works, at The Art Institute visitors can experience one of the world's most notable collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. With the addition of its Modern Wing, the museum now features an impressive showcase for its contemporary artworks.
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
Illinois' only United Nations World Heritage Site. This 2,200-acre site preserves the central section of the largest prehistoric Indian city north of Mexico. An Interpretive Center presents a coherent account of this sophisticated prehistoric culture. Climb Monk's Mound, see the film and life-size village. Don't miss annual events that focus on Native American culture.
Burpee Museum of Natural History
Come explore Burpee Museum and its award-winning exhibits such as Jane: Diary of a Dinosaur, called one of the ten most important dinosaur discoveries in the past 100 years. Burpee Museum also features Homer, a sub-adult or "teen-age" Triceratops. Four floors of exhibits include Windows to Wilderness, a woolly mammoth skeletal cast, Pennsylvanian coal forest, a Native American exhibit, Geoscience, and a viewing lab.
Apple River Fort State Historic Site
Apple River Fort State Historic Site, located in Elizabeth, Illinois, is the site of one of the battles fought during the Black Hawk War. Black Hawk and his 200 warriors attacked the hastily erected fort on June 24, 1832. His story and that of the early settlers are told.
Experience innovations of the present and the future while appreciating the heritage of the past at the free attraction in downtown Moline, Illinois. See vintage machines and climb aboard new ones, operate a simulated excavator or dozer, explore exhibits on how technology helps people shape and care for the land and enjoy interactive ways for kids to learn about farming and infrastructure. The John Deere Store stocks a large collection of genuine John Deere merchandise.
Black Hawk State Historic Site
Wonderful for families, friends for outdoor recreation. Additionally, the Watch Tower Lodge has hosted thousands of wedding receptions and offers a lovely setting in the beautiful historic park. This wooded, steeply rolling 208-acre tract, borders the Rock River in the city of Rock Island. Prehistoric Indians and 19th-Century settlers made homes here, but the area is most closely identified with the Sauk nation and its great warrior, Black Hawk. Voted one of the "7 Wonders of Illinois," this pristine park offers beautiful trails for hiking and walking only. Picnic areas are also available. While at the park be sure to visit the Watch Tower Lodge that houses a large reception area and the John Hauberg Indian Museum. The museum features Sauk and Meskwaki Native American Indian artifacts and displays depicting the four seasons and life of these tribes. A new exhibit tells the story of the Sauk and Meskwaki—how they came to live in the Quad City area, why they no longer live here, and, as the piece de resistance, a four-by-eight-foot scale model of the city of Saukenuk one of the largest Native American Indian settlements in the United States.
CITY:Rock Island
William M. Staerkel Planetarium
Discover the universe at the second largest planetarium in Illinois, the William M. Staerkel Planetarium, located on the campus of Parkland College. With a state-of-the-art digital projection system, visitors can learn about the stars, planets and more in this cutting-edge environment. At the planetarium website, you will learn of special programs and features coinciding with the many events in our universe. Public shows are on most Friday and Saturday nights, as well as summer matinees.
Discover cute boutiques housed in historic storefronts in downtown Champaign, including antique and consignment shops. Be sure to stop at PACA's Architectural Salvage Warehouse, where you'll find everything from vintage stained glass to ceramic tiles.
Located adjacent to the Melvin Price Locks and Dam, this museum is dedicated to telling the story of the Mississippi River, from its colorful history to its modern-day role as a major transportation corridor. The museum features kid-friendly, interactive and computer animated exhibits. Steer a towboat through the locks and dam via simulator, measure your water consumption or come face-to-face with river fish in the aquarium. Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Chicago History Museum is a major museum and research center for Chicago and American history. From permanent galleries to special exhibitions and exciting programs, people of all ages are able to experience the past and better understand the present. Please call for museum hours, pricing and exhibitions.
Chicago Children's Museum at Navy Pier
Hands-on exhibits and daily-changing activities make every visit unique for young children and adults, too. Dig deep into the Dinosaur Expedition, try to stay dry in WaterWays, make a masterpiece in the KraftArtabounds Studio, and climb up to the crow's nest on the Kovler Family Climbing Schooner. Toddlers can have fun in Kids Town and Treehouse Trails.
The Science Center of Southern Illinois
This center was designed for children ages 3-13 and their families. The science museum features several interactive hands-on exhibits dealing with a variety of basic concepts of science, as well as special events and programs.
University of Illinois Arboretum
The University of Illinois Arboretum is a living laboratory, including plant collections and facilities that support the teaching, research and public service programs of several units throughout campus. Central to the Arboretum was the development of the "All American Selection Trial Gardens" established by a bequest from Miles C. Hartley in the early 90s. Other highlights of the Arboretum include the Welcome Garden, Hosta Garden, Kari Walkway and native ponds plantings, the Idea Garden, sponsored by Champaign County Master Gardeners, and the Japanese Tea and Dry Gardens at the Japan House.
Chicago's own Chinatown features beautiful Chinese-style buildings, as well as exotic dining and shopping experiences that have made the neighborhood a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.
The museum campus consists of a Victorian village with 26 historical buildings filled with artifacts of the era as well as several beautiful 19th century gardens that depict life in northern Illinois from 1890 to 1910. Interpreters in authentic period dress are available seasonally for guided tours. The main museum building holds large group meeting rooms and exhibit space with a number of permanent exhibits reflecting Rockford's history and culture. Special events throughout the year include a World War II re-enatment, Sock Monkey and Scarecrow Harvest Festivals, and more. Free recreational path located on property.
Opened in October 2012, this brand new 80,000 square-foot building is a world-class facility located on Peoria's downtown riverfront. The museum features a 3D giant screen theater and digital planetarium, as well as history, science, art and achievement exhibits for all ages.
Wild Reef: Sharks at Shedd Aquarium
See sharks glide through underwater gardens of iridescent corals and garden eels. Wander through a lagoon and mangrove forest, and visit a fishing village where residents saved their reef from destruction.
Named one of the top 12 children's museums in the nation by Forbes in 2012, here kids can explore more than 250 hands-on art and science exhibits, a planetarium, TV studio and the Tot Spot for toddlers. Discovery Center also boasts the nation's first community-built outdoor science park, the Rock River Discovery Park, featuring a two-story maze, water play area and dinosaur fossil dig.
Springfield & Central Illinois African American History Museum
The Mission of the Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum is to identify, research, collect, catalogue, restore, house, maintain and interpret documents and artifacts relating to and chronicling the history and legacy of African Americans in Springfield and Central Illinois. The Museum will provide research opportunities, educational programming and interpretive services for historians, authors, educators, and others interested in the lives and legacies of African Americans in Central Illinois.
An eclectic district filled with dining and multi-cultural attractions, Midtown Champaign, with the beautiful Boneyard Creek flowing, connects Downtown and Campustown Champaign.
The Wildlife Discovery Center is a special place offering programs for people of all ages who have an interest in wildlife and their habitat. Children's classes, adult programs, and school field trips focus on wildlife conservation, field biology, and ecology. The Center also offers self-guided nature hikes, workshops, eco-based summer camps, wildlife ecology trips, group presentations, traveling animal exhibits and exciting volunteer opportunities. You can visit eye-to-eye with over 150 animals including a bobcat, raptors, Kookaburras, and an assortment of venomous and non-venomous reptiles like crocodilians, snakes, turtles and tortoises. The Wildlife Discovery Center is home to one of the largest public exhibits of rattlesnakes in North America, including four species that are native to Illinois. Indoor exhibits hours are Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am to 4:00pm. The outdoor exhibits and walking trails are open year round.
CITY:Lake Forest
See a Wild West show and museum of Western memorabilia, then dine at Donley's Old West Steakhouse.
Waking the T. Rex - The Story of Sue in 3-D
No dinosaur in the world compares to SUE—the largest, most complete, and best preserved Tyrannosaurus Rex ever discovered. Get the inside scoop on SUE and the science behind the world's most famous T. Rex. Terror has a new appetite!
Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center
This new center is a 65,000 square-foot building designed by renowned architect Stanley Tigerman. The Museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Holocaust by honoring the memories of those who were lost and by teaching the universal lessons that combat hatred, prejudice and indifference. The museum features an authentic early 20th century German rail car, an inspiring Hall of Remembrance for contemplation and reflection, a permanent exhibition chronicling life before, during and after the Holocaust, a youth exhibit for 9-11 year olds highlighting lessons of the Holocaust and a 225 seat auditorium.
Bishop Hill State Historic Site
Four historically significant buildings are owned by the State of Illinois and are maintained as part of the Bishop Hill State Historic Site. These architectural treasures are the two-story Colony Church (1850), the three-story Colony Hotel (1852-ca. 1860), the Boys Dormitory (ca. 1850), and the Colony Barn (mid-1850s) that has been relocated behind the Hotel. In addition, the central village park contains a reconstructed gazebo and war monuments. On the south edge of the village, stands a new brick Museum to house a comprehensive collection of paintings by colonist and self-taught artist, Olof Krans (1838-1916). Hours and days of operation change with the season. Please call to confirm your visit.
CITY:Bishop Hill
Spring Valley Nature Center/ Volkening Heritage Farm
135 acres, natural history museum, handicapped-accessible trails, 1880's living history farm and pioneer cooking demos. Cost for some programs.
Cedarhurst Center for the Arts & Mitchell Museum
Exhibitions, a children's gallery, a permanent collection and special events. Grounds include 85 acres sculpture park, nature trails and bird sanctuary. Hosts annual Cedarhurst Craft Fair.
CITY:Mount Vernon
Alton Museum of History and Art
Winged monsters, explorers, riverboats and a gentle giant. The Alton Museum of History & Art shows the crossroads of American history in Alton. The museum is located in the historic Loomis Hall across from the Wadlow statue. Loomis Hall is the oldest building in the state of Illinois continuously utilized for education. One of the most popular rooms, the Wadlow Room, pays tribute to Alton's "Gentle Giant" and the World's Tallest Man. The Pioneer Room explores the history of Alton from the Lewis & Clark Expedition to the Civil War with exhibits on Elijah Lovejoy, the Lincoln-Douglas Debates and the "Alton Route" on the Underground Railroad. Hours: Wednesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Sunday 1 - 4 p.m.
University of Illinois Champaign Urbana
The University of Illinois is a world leader in research, teaching and public engagement. It's distinguished by the breadth of their programs, broad academic excellence and internationally renowned faculty. This Big Ten school offers rich experiences beyond the classroom from the best in performing arts to world-class sports. Discover the scenic campus through tours of the historic buildings and those that are pushing the envelope in technology.
Kohl Children's Museum offers hands-on, interactive exhibits designed exclusively for children ages birth to 8. All of the exhibits and programs are designed to make learning fun and interesting for young children. A visit to a grocery store, a veterinarian's office as well as a day care inhabited by dolls allow children to participate in adult activities on their own scale. Children can build a house, make music, take care of cars, explore the properties of water and much more in the many engaging exhibits featured.
DuPage Children's Museum is more than a Museum. We're a force for early learning! Experience a unique hands-on museum where children and adults learn and play together in neighborhoods of hands-on exhibits designed to promote skill development in math, science and art. DuPage Children's Museum helps develop curiosity, creativity, thinking and problem solving in young children. Check out our new S.M.A.R.T. Café, where food becomes an opportunity to learn about science, math, art, reading and technology.
Chicago's architectural showplace for the lively and visual arts. Daily programs and exhibitions covering a wide range of the performing, visual and literary arts are presented by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affiars. See the world's largest Tiffany stained-glass dome. It was initially built for dual purposes. It was the city's central library and a monument dedicated to the Civil War's Grand Army of the Republic. Since 1977 the building has housed cultural entities that included galleries, an auditorium, and the city's office of cultural affairs. The building architects are Shepley, Rutan and Coolidge.
The Kankakee County Museum is the home of the Kankakee County Historical Society. Founded in 1906, it is the oldest incorporated local historical society in Illinois. The Main Museum Building contains seven permanent and temporary exhibit galleries, the Museum Store, the Museum's Archival Research Library, the Museum's offices, and support facilities. The Museum Complex also encompasses the historic 1855 Dr. A. L. Small House, the 1904 Taylor One-Room Schoolhouse, Column Garden and Outdoor Exhibit Area. The museum boasts more than 85,000 artifacts in addition to 20,000 still images in the photo collection.
The landmark Busey's Hall/Princess Theater in downtown Urbana is home to Cinema Gallery, representing over 50 professional artists of the Midwest. Media on display are ceramics, drawings, glass, mixed media, paintings, sculpture, and studio furniture. The gallery also hosts 7 special shows each year.
Litchfield Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center
Designed to reflect the Route 66 era, the museum houses exhibits which focus on the roles the railroads, Route 66, businesses, agriculture, and the military have played in Litchfield's history.
The opulent Cuneo Museum and Gardens, located on 75 acres and dotted with formal gardens and statuary was the perfect setting for the wedding scenes in "My Best Friend's Wedding." The gazebo where the best friends were caught kissing was built specifically for the film, but Cuneo's owners liked it so much they decided to keep it permanently. Take a guided tour through the historic Mediterranean-style Cuneo mansion to see Renaissance artworks and lavish European furnishings.
CITY:Vernon Hills
Fulkerson Mansion and Farm Museum
Colonel William H. Fulkerson's mansion and farm museum contains many rare agricultural items and equipment with emphasis on large, rare farm steam traction engines, utilized for plowing the prairie, threshing the grain, and for powering early sawmills. The estate is 14-room Southern-style Victorian mansion that has remained virtually unchanged to this day. It was placed on the National Historic Register of Historic Places in 1998.
Augustana's Fryxell Geology Museum
One of the largest collections of rocks, minerals, and fossils in the Midwest. Exhibit also includes a complete skeleton of the dinosaur Cryolophosaurus and a large fluorescent mineral exhibit. Museum is located on the campus of Augustana College in the Swenson Hall of Geosciences.
CITY:Rock Island
This museum is a replica of the first McDonald's restaurant opened by Ray Kroc on April 15, 1955. View an array of memorabilia, from the original kitchen equipment to the 1950s classic cars parked on site.
CITY:Des Plaines
First and only African American children's museum in the country for children ages 3-9. Interactive exhibits, unique programs. Focus on culture, history and contributions of African Americans.
Center For American Archeology
Located in Kampsville, the Center for American Archeology Museum is housed in the historic Kamp Store, offering a variety of exhibits focusing on the 10,000 year pre-history of the lower Illinois River Valley, the archeological history of Illinois and the history of the Kamp Store. Guided tours of the facility and excavation sites are available for groups of ten or more.
Mangelsen - Images of Nature Gallery
Located on Galena's historic Main Street, this gallery features the award-winning nature photography of Thomas D. Mangelsen. They showcase more than 150 limited edition and artist proof prints.
Museum Campus is a 57-acre museum park that sits near Lake Michigan and surrounds three of the city's most notable museums, all dedicated to the natural sciences: the Adler Planetarium; the Shedd Aquarium; and the Field Museum of Natural History. It is also known for holding the Soldier Field football stadium and the Lakeside Center of the McCormick Place.
The Science Center of Southern Illinois
The Science Center of Southern Illinois is the perfect way for kids to explore the beauty of science in a fun atmosphere. This hands-on children's museum has over 50 exhibits and sees nearly 15,000 annual visitors. Adults are also welcome, as many of the activities can be enjoyed by all.
General museum featuring local history, Kirkpatrick Pottery, Native American artifacts, pioneer items and other unique collections.
Woodlawn Farm - Underground Railroad Site
This farm was established in 1824 by Michael Huffaker who built four cabins for free black families and later hid fleeing slaves there. Tours available between Memorial Day and Labor Day on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. or by appointment.
For model railroad aficionados -- and everyone else who ever enjoyed model trains -- this model railroad is something to see. The Fever River Railroad is a 120X24-foot HO scale model with detailed scenery, rail yards, factories, and interchanges with many other railroads. The Fever River Railroad is an ongoing project with upgrades to the layout and scenery that provides an exciting model railroad experience. A collection of railroad memorabilia and pictures, many from the surrounding area, are on display throughout the facility. The Stephenson Society of Model Trainmen, who operate the railroad, host an open house twice a year. Groups are welcome by prior appointment.
Jacoby Arts Center is dedicated to creating opportunities for individual artists in their pursuit of artistic excellence and economic success. The stunning gallery presents works of regional and national artists and the retail shop, known as The Artist Shop, showcases items in a variety of media while providing artists a retail outlet to their audiences.
Byron Museum Of History & Lucius Read House
The Byron Museum Complex consists of a large Exhibit Hall and the historic Lucius Read House, which was on the Underground Railroad and is a listed site on the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. The Read House features a permanent exhibit entitled, 'From Shackles to Freedom: The Underground Railroad' which shines a spotlight on Byron's participation in the Underground Railroad. We are happy to accommodate group tours outside regular hours. Tours are free and are self-guided or a docent can be arranged. We also have ample meeting space available.
Little Egypt Arts Association Art Centre
Little Egypt Arts Association is a not for profit artist Co-op that was established in 1995 by approximately 20 local artists and art patrons. It's the largest cooperative art center in Southern Illinois. Offering a gift shop, art classes and workshops.
Museum that houses over 70 vintage furnished doll houses from the 1920's- to current. The architectural designs and fashions depict and present the evolution of homes and furnishings from then to now. The Then and Now gift shop is complete with collectable doll house furnishings for sale. Children enjoy playing the scavenger hunt and viewing the 1949 "Disney House" and the 1924 Tootsie Toy house furnished with Tootsie toy pieces. Located inside Taylor's Furniture Store, along the square in Quincy's downtown business district.
Resh Frame Shop offers quality custom framing for every budget and every style and professional, friendly service. All custom picture framing work is done on site, and uses archival materials to insure that your work is properly preserved. The frame shop has over 5,000 traditional, Italian & contemporary frame samples to choose from.
Anne Lloyd Gallery - Madden Arts Center
The warm, welcoming and slightly funky Madden Arts Center is a richly renovated hub where the Decatur Area Arts Council makes its home. The building houses galleries, classrooms, an art shop, photo lab and rehearsal spaces. The Anne Lloyd Gallery showcases local exhibits as well as extraordinary traveling collections. The gallery spotlights an International Arts Experience exhibition over an 8-week period each summer. Participating in the downtown Decatur "art walks" the gallery holds a "First Friday" reception on the first Friday evening of each month, showcasing a different artist or artistic medium each time.
Fine Line Creative Arts Center
Fine Line Creative Arts Center is a nonprofit educational art school that offers classes for adults in a wide range of fine arts, as well as workshops taught by guest artists from around the world. Two galleries are included on the Fine Line campus, where local, national and international artists' works are featured year-round. Special events are hosted by Fine Line throughout the year, including Fine Line Arts Festival, Uncommon Threads, and Christmastime at the Fine Line Show & Sale.
CITY:St. Charles
This museum located on the campus of Wheaton College is devoted to the history of Christian evangelism and its influences on society. View rare artifacts, art and displays that include a powerful 3-D presentation of the gospel message.
Midwest Museum of Natural History
The mission of the Midwest Museum of Natural History is to encourage an appreciation of the world's diverse natural environment and human culture through exhibits and interactive learning experiences for children and adults. Offering a kid's play area with hands-on learning fun, a gift shop, national traveling exhibits, and world-renowned celebrities Ruud Kleinpaste, Jack Hanna and Jeff Corwin.
Hello Galena! is a gallery featuring 65 artists selling and demonstrating artwork. Jewelry, pottery, stained glass, paintings, photography, wooden toys/pens, purses, more! Events, demonstrations & classes.
Browse award-winning oil paintings by Wilma Woldt Krueger. Limited and open edition prints, landscapes, wildlife, still life and portraits are sold.
Native American Art Gallery. Movies and music performed to enrich the public on Native American culture.
The Geneseo Historical Museum features displays of local people and places in an Italianate-style home built in the mid-1800. Walk through the 27-rooms which tell the story of how people lived in the past and Geneseo's history. See the Underground Railroad space used to hide runaway slaves. A wide variety of President Abraham Lincoln artifacts are the centerpiece of the museum. Visit the newly built carriage house home to Geneseo's agricultural history. Explore and be delighted while learning about Geneseo's heritage
Grand Army of the Republic Hall
Built in 1878, this structure was originally built as a monument to Aurora's Civil War Veterans. The building is currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has more than 2,500 artifacts, photographs, scrapbooks, medals, flags and items dating from the Civil War through the Vietnam War. This historic treasure is now open for public viewing on an initial limited basis. Self-guided public tours available Saturdays 12 noon to 4 pm and 6 - 8 pm during each First Friday event through November. Group tours (by appointment only) Wednesdays through Fridays. Tours free and open to the public. For information 630-256-INFO. Watch a quick virtual preview and then come visit in person. See the Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Hall, Post 20: Virtual Museum and Research Center at https://www.aurora-il.org/gar/virtual_exhibit.php.
Henry County Historical Museum
This museum's detailed exhibits include a one-room schoolhouse, doctor's and dentist's offices, the war room, restored ag implements, machinery, an authentic windmill and a hog house.
CITY:Bishop Hill
Renaissance House: A Working Art Gallery
The gallery offers classes in art, as well as original art and gifts for sale. Exhibits and events in the performing arts are scheduled throughout the year.
Jack Benny Center for the Arts
The Jack Benny Center for the Arts provides year round classes in art, music, dance and theatre for youth and adults. Waukegan Symphony Orchestra and Concert Chorus performs year round. The Waukegan History Museum offers tours, classes and programs. Special events include Ray Bradbury's Dandelion Wine Fine Arts Festival the first Saturday in June and the Joseph A. Favero Memorial Do It Yourself Messiah is traditionally held on the third Saturday in December.
French Heritage Museum at the Stone Barn
Here you can explore the French involvement in the history of the Kankakee River Valley-the first explorers and missionaries; the coureurs de bois and fur traders and the pioneer settlers from France, French Canada, and Belgium.
Will County Historical Society
Incorporated in 1964, the Will County Historical Society exists to connect people and organizations to the county's rich history. The Society's museum is housed in the original headquarters of the I&M Canal. Built in 1837, the structure played a central role in the design, financing, and construction of the Canal and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. Changing exhibits highlight the history of Will County and the Canal. The Society's extensive collection includes significant county and canal-related records, including maps, plats, land records, obituaries, photographs, newspapers, receipts, and correspondence.
Paulson's Agriculture Museum of Argyle
Home of the largest and best collection of farm equipment and antiquites of yesteryear. Over 700 cast iron implement seats, 50 antique tractors, windmills, windmill weights, and antique washing machines. Wagons, spreaders, cultivators, planters, and the most extensive collection of Rockford, Illinois-made Emerson Brandingham equipment. A model tractor and toy collection is as large as it is unique. Individual tours available. The main building is heated and available all year round for weddings, birthdays, social gatherings, or auctions.
Frances Willard was one of the most prominent social reformers in the 19th century America. Willard rallied support for temperance as well as many important reform movements including woman's suffrage, women's economic and religious rights, prison reforms, education reforms and labor reforms. The Frances Willard Historical Association operates the Frances Willard House, Willard's home from its construction in 1865 until her death in 1898.
National Vietnam Veterans Art Museum
The National Veterans Art Museum inspires greater understanding of the real impact of war with a focus on Vietnam. The museum collects, preserves and exhibits art inspired by combat and created by veterans.
Mattoon Welcome Center & Historic Railroad Depot
Mattoon Tourism & Arts Welcome Center is located in the historic Illinois Central Railroad Train Depot, which also still serves as the Amtrak Station for the Community. The original Railroad Depot was constructed in 1918 by the Illinois Central Railroad, and it was then remodeled in 2011. The Depot is still an active Amtrak Station with 3,000 passengers boarding and un-boarding per month. The welcome center offers a host of information: state-of-the-art schools & colleges, a growing economy, beautiful parks, lakes and sports amenities round out the more favorable quality of life found in Mattoon.
This museum is located in an 1889 school building and features a permanent exhibit honoring Jane Addams, who was born and raised in Cedarville. Miss Addams was an internationally famous humanitarian and social work pioneer who founded Chicago's Hull House and won the Nobel Peace Prize. Museum exhibits include personal items and memorabilia from her life and the life of her family. There are also changing exhibits on topics of local historical interest and a research center and a research center. Open: May thru October: Saturday and Sunday: 1 pm - 4 pm; or by appointment.
Marissa Academy Museum & Coal Miners Monument
Memorabilia celebrating the city's growth from a coal-mining town to the present makes this a fascinating touchstone of local history.
Explore five permanent galleries: European (19th century paintings, sculpture), Art of the Near and Far East (Egyptian, Chinese, and Southeast Asia), Native American (pots, baskets and Kachina dolls), African and Oceanic Art (masks, ceremonial pieces and textiles), and Contemporary (prints and paintings). Two galleries feature new exhibitions every 8-12 weeks and are devoted to regional art or national exhibitions. A student gallery features aspiring young artists from local schools. The museum also offers educational programs, performances, and special events. Open: Tuesday thru Friday: 10 am - 5 pm; Saturday: Noon - 5 pm. Free admission, but donations are appreciated.
McHenry County Historical Society Museum
For more than 50 years, the McHenry County Historical Society has preserved an outstanding collection of educational and entertaining exhibits. Featuring an 1843 log cabin and an 1895 one-room schoolhouse, the museum attracts thousands of students and visitors each year. The museum is open Tuesday-Friday, 1 to 4 p.m. (first weekend in May through first weekend in October) and select Sundays, including every Sunday in May (Look at Local History Month). Located in downtown Union, the museum is also offers special programs throughout the year. Visit GotHistory.org for details.
Nestled in historic homes and buildings that date back to the community's roots in the 1800's, Long Grove's shops specialize in unique gifts, boutiques, antiques, clothing, exceptional art and home décor, and distinctive menus. Visitors can stroll the cobblestone walks that wind through the historic downtown and enjoy seasonal lush gardens and scenic views. And they can make it a quick trip or a day's outing, shopping and indulging their tastes with a variety of food and bakery products, cafés, and fine eating establishments. Fun festivals throughout the year including the famous Chocolate Fest, Summer Fest, Craft Beer Days, Apple Fest and a month of Holiday Festivities to name a few.
CITY:Long Grove
Poplar Grove Vintage Wings & Wheels Museum
The museum was established to preserve history and educate youth about the significant contributions made to our country by winged and wheeled vehicles.
CITY:Poplar Grove
Northbrook Historical Society Museum
Enjoy the main floor museum with antiques and a replica of an 1890s home. Open the first Sunday of every month, or by appointment.
DuPage County Historical Museum
Enjoy DuPage County's rich history from the 1830s to the present. The Museum exhibits feature hundreds of historic artifacts and photos along with many fun hands-on activities. You'll find something for toddlers to seniors, and everyone in between. Housed in an 1891 Richardsonian Romanesque building, the museum highlights 150 years of DuPage County history with participatory activities, changing exhibits and extensive model railroad display.
Built in 1856, this Italianate building is home of the Aurora Historical Society and where you'll find historic photos, books, documents and maps covering Aurora's history from the 1830s to now. Tours of fully furnished home & exhibits offered by appointment. Season tours begin on Sun., April 10 and will be offered at 1, 2 and 3 pm every Wed. and Sun. through Sept. 28. They will be closed on July 3 to prepare for Independence Day. Tours are free; donations appreciated.
Children's Museum of Edwardsville
Toddlers to 12-year-olds can enjoy the unique interactive exhibits and seasonal events at this fun children's museum.
Located in Andersonville, a Swedish enclave in Chicago, this is a cultural and learning center with artifacts, photographs and exhibits tracing Swedish American history.
A state of the art history museum dedicated to collecting and sharing the history of the greater Grayslake area. The Grayslake Heritage Center offers programs, exhibitions and special events all year round and includes two galleries, a community room and classroom.
Wonder Works is 6,400 square feet of fun, a place of creative play for kids birth to age eight. Located in Oak Park, Illinois at 6445 West North Avenue, the children's museum helps kids, their parents and caregivers unleash their imaginations through art, performance, design, building and more.
CITY:Oak Park
Tour this centennial barn, one of the largest in the country and one of forty-two left in the State of Illinois. It stands 80 feet high and 85 feet in diameter and features a 16-foot diameter floor to ceiling silo. A farm implement museum in on the main floor. Tours are provided by Friends of Johnson's Park Foundation and groups of ten or more asked to call ahead. Open the first, third, and fifth Saturday beginning May through October. Hours: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Our work embodies skill, insight, and respect for both the material and process. It is useful in the kitchen, on the table, or as an accent to decor. The warmth and beauty crafted into each pot will touch those who use it. Its artistry functions best through daily use, through intimate acquaintance.
African-American Cultural & Genealogical Society of Illinois
AACGS promotes and provides resources and education on the history of the African American. Embracing all cultures, it offers (in part), genealogy workshops, museum displays, storytelling, essay & poetry contests and the promotion of Cultural Arts. Three main annual community events sponsored are Black History Month, Juneteenth National Freedom Day, and Kwanzaa Celebration
Carmelite Campus National Shrine of St. Therese
The National Shrine of St. Therese is a Roman Catholic shrine, chapel, and museum dedicated to St. Therese of Lisieux. The Shrine is home to the most wonderful collection of relics, personal effects and memorabilia of Therese outside of France. The Shrine chapel celebrates Mass every weekday at 11:30 am. Tours are available for groups of 20 or more, including a private tour of an exact replica of St. Therese's monastery cell in France. The shrine sits peacefully on a 50-acre estate owned and operated by the Carmelites of the Most Pure Heart of Mary. Adjacent to the Shrine is the Carmelite Spiritual Center, offering meeting room rental, lodging, meals and spiritual retreats as well as organized Shrine tours.
Mitchell Museum of the American Indian
Focusing on the art, history and culture of the American Indian. Permanent exhibits are dedicated to the Native cultures of the Woodlands, Plains, Southwest, Northwest Coast and Arctic regions of North America. Each gallery contains a "touching table" where visitors can handle real examples of Indian artifacts, as well as feel the raw materials—including snakeskin, caribou fur, birch bark, turquoise and buffalo skin—that were used by native Americans. Temporary exhibits showcase emerging and established contemporary Native artists. Lectures and performances throughout the year provide a venue for multicultural education.
Morton Grove Historical Museum Haupt-Yehl House
Located in Harrer Park, this 1888 Victorian farmhouse features period furnishings and a museum on its lower level with rotating displays.
CITY:Morton Grove
The Paderewski and Kosciuszko memorial rooms, folk art, photos and documents all tell the fascinating history of the Polish immigration to America and Chicago, where the largest Polish population outside of Warsaw resides.
The Silkwood Inn was built in 1827 and contains furnishings and artifacts from the 1800s. A tour trough this amazing Inn includes the telling of a famous local legend about the kindness of the Silkwood family, a slave girl named Priscilla, and the Trail of Tears. The museum is free to the public but donations are accepted.
Culture Stock is a social venture that operates as a hub for cultural activities and community programs while serving as a used book and media re-seller. Culture Stock, located in the heart of Downtown Aurora, offers up-and-coming musicians, poets and other artists a place to display their talents. Stop in for a taste of Aurora's culture, read a good book in a cozy corner, listen to a new performer or join a language circle. Kids have events at Culture Stock too. Check their Facebook page for a Downtown Aurora cultural experience update today!
DAAHA is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing with people of all ages the storied history of agriculture and its innovators within northern Illinois. Through their exhibits, educational programs, and website they hope to tell the story of DeKalb County and northern Illinois' contribution to the world's most important invention: Agriculture. Their organization is new and constantly evolving, so check back often for new exhibits, programs, and virtual access to our collections.


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As some of you more observant users might have noticed (feel free to crawl back into the naruto section some of you), we have new forums on Mangashare!
Given the popularity and activity of certain mangas, the following changes have been made:
- The Raw Manga forum was moved to the Noteable Threads section as an archive. If you wish to post raws, feel free to do so on the Raw Tracker.
- The D. Gray-man forum now shares its space with Psyren! Through incredible fusion, it is now the D.Gray-man & Psyren forum! (creative right?)
- A brand new forum, the Fairy Tail & KHR forum has been created for all of your discussion needs!


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Congratulations go to Economics Professor Tim Payne for putting together a winning study abroad proposal for the IPAC (International Programs Advisory Committee) Summer Institute. Payne's program, Art, Spirit and Economy: The Unique Culture of Bali, which provides a well-rounded cultural experience for students, garnered a solid vote of confidence from committee members.
The three-week program will provide students the opportunity to explore the fascinating culture of Bali via a multidisciplinary approach. Students will gain an understanding of the cultural, social, economic, political and environmental aspects that shape the country.
They will learn about the role of the village temple during visits to temples and traditional economic systems and living in a traditional village when visiting villages. They will see sustainable agriculture in process at local farms and markets, and learn about traditional handicraft industries while visiting village craft centers and local artisans. Students will explore the beaches of Bali, volcanoes, forests, villages and enjoy the music, dance, painting, woodcarving and unique craftwork. Land use, environmental practices, Balinese traditions, tourism and the economy are also on the educational agenda.
Students will live and study in the host town of Ubud, the cultural center of the island. Ubud lies in the foothills of dormant volcanic peaks and is located near many major temples. The city of 8,000 residents offers a slow-paced environment in spite of it being an active cultural center.
Payne explains that Balinese culture is collectivistic in nature, providing a rich contrast to American individualism. "It may lead students to question what constitutes a civilized society."
"Bali has a unique culture that seeks harmony in relations with people, nature and the spirit world," said Payne. "The Balinese practice this harmony in their daily lives - how they work, play and interact in their families and communities. The people of Bali demonstrate their spirituality through music, art and dance, so much so that there is no word in their language for art…it is just how they lead their lives. The further one is willing to immerse in the culture, the more inspiration one can receive."
Payne's commitment to a healthy global environment is also supported by his work as co-advisor of the Global Development Project club at SCC. The club is dedicated to learning how microcredit can provide market-based approaches to solving poverty in developing countries. Read about the club or copy this link: http://globaldevelopmentproject.blogspot.com/ into your browser.
The IPAC awards are designed to promote the goals of international education through professional development opportunities for SCC faculty and low-cost study/service abroad programs for SCC students. Students have the opportunity to learn firsthand from the local people, cultural venues and the environment as they relate to the proposed curriculum.
Since the inception of the IPAC program in 2001, SCC has sponsored 12 IPAC supported study abroad programs around the world. SCC's IPAC model received national recognition through the Senator Paul Simon award by NAFSA (National Association of International Educators) for its excellence in providing unique educational opportunities for students and faculty.
The IPAC funds support faculty in the research, development and implementation of short-term, credit-bearing programs. The International Programs Advisory Committee, made up of faculty from all divisions, a student representative, a classified staff member and an administrator, reviews proposals annually.
The Bali program will take place August through 16-September 6, 2010. The cost of the five-credit course ranges from $2,550 to $2,700. The fee, based on current exchange rates and airfare rates, does not include college tuition and fees
For more information about the Bali program or other SCC Summer Institutes in Ireland and Jamaica, please check out the web site or copy http://www.international.shoreline.edu/stud_home.html into your browser, or contact Pollie McCloskey at email@example.com.
Donna Myers, SCC


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4 men sought in armed robbery of Family Dollar store in Cumru
CUMRU TWP., Pa. - Police in Cumru Township are on the lookout for four men in connection with a brazen holdup.
The robbery happened Monday night at the Family Dollar on Lancaster Avenue.
After two employees closed the store at 9 p.m., an armed man emerged from the stock room, fired a shot in the air and demanded money.
Cumru Township police arrived at the Family Dollar at 508 E. Lancaster Ave. around 9:30 p.m. to find two distraught employees.
"The two employees were very upset. We had an assistant manager and a cashier. They had been pretty much held for about 15-plus minutes with one being held motionless on the floor; the other individual, under a lot of stress, trying to open the safe," said Sgt. George Kuriger Jr., Cumru Twp. Police Dept.
Four men entered the store around 8:30, said police, adding that three of the four -- described as persons of interest in the case -- bought items and left.
The fourth man, described as a Hispanic male with facial hair, wearing glasses and a dark curly wig, however, went into the stock room.
After the employees closed up shop, police said that man emerged wearing a mask, fired a shot into the air and forced the store manager to open the safe and give him an undisclosed amount of money.
Community members said they are shocked to hear of the holdup.
"I frequent there sometimes with my mother and stuff. I am surprised," said Cirilo Rivera, of Reading.
People said they, too, would have been distraught if they were in the store.
"Startled and scared I guess. If you are seeing someone come out of your stock room all of a sudden in the middle of the night and you are by yourself or two people there, yea it would be a little surprising," said Joe Mackiewicz, of Reading.
Police said they are hoping the public will be able to help them identify these men.
"Anyone who actually know these individuals should be able to identify them. That would assist us in furthering the investigation and avoiding any further potential incidents with these individuals," said Kuriger.
Anyone with information about the robbery is asked to contact the Cumru Twp. Police Dept. at 610-777-9595 or Crime Alert Berks County at 877-373-9913. A cash reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for a tip to Crime Alert that leads to an arrest.
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Dr. Scholls July Slip-On
Sorry, this item is sold out!
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Location: San Francisco, CA
May 30, 2013
Sparkle and comfort - What's there not to like?
"I'm 5 months pregnant and I find trying to put on shoes an Olympic sport now that my belly is starting to take over my shoe-tying space. I needed a slip-on that was comfortable, easy to get on that doesn't require me to bend over, doesn't look ugly and is fit for summer time. I received this pair in the mail today and I'm delighted at the quality, style and how lightweight it is! My usual shoe size ranges from 6 to 7 but I have pretty narrow (flat) feet. I got these in a size 6.5 and they fit perfectly without any toe crunch or heel/ankle irritation. I definitely feel I would continue to wear this as a new mommy!"
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April 23, 2013
Very similar to Toms, but better.
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Click anywhere to close this.


text: Campus Kitchen volunteers pose for a group picture after preparing meals. These volunteers passed the 100,000 meal mark at this session. The program uses leftover food on campus to feed others ranging from school children to the elderly. Campus Kitchen runs Monday through Thursday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Straz cafeteria. (Photo by Matt Dixon)


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Most enterprises are more than eager to further develop their capabilities in social media intelligence (SMI)—the ability to mine the public social media cloud to glean business insights and act on them. They understand the essential value of finding customers who discuss products and services candidly in public forums. The impact SMI can have goes beyond basic market research and test marketing. In the best cases, companies can uncover clues to help them revisit product and marketing strategies.
"Ideally, social media can function as a really big focus group," says Jeff Auker, a director in PwC's Customer Impact practice. Enterprises, which spend billions on focus groups, spent nearly $1.6 billion in 2011 on social media marketing, according to Forrester Research. That number is expected to grow to nearly $5 billion by 2016.1
Auker cites the example of a media company's use of SocialRep,2 a tool that uses a mix of natural language processing (NLP) techniques to scan social media. Preliminary scanning for the company, which was looking for a gentler approach to countering piracy, led to insights about how motivations for movie piracy differ by geography. "In India, it's the grinding poverty. In Eastern Europe, it's the underlying socialist culture there, which is, 'my stuff is your stuff.' There, somebody would buy a film and freely copy it for their friends. In either place, though, intellectual property rights didn't hold the same moral sway that they did in some other parts of the world," Auker says.
This article explores the primary characteristics of NLP, which is the key to SMI, and how NLP is applied to social media analytics. The article considers what's in the realm of the possible when mining social media text, and how informed human analysis becomes essential when interpreting the conversations that machines are attempting to evaluate.
NLP technologies for SMI are just emerging. When used well, they serve as a more targeted, semantically based complement to pure statistical analysis, which is more scalable and able to tackle much larger data sets. While statistical analysis looks at the relative frequencies of word occurrences and the relationships between words, NLP tries to achieve deeper insights into the meanings of conversations.
The best NLP tools can provide a level of competitive advantage, but it's a challenging area for both users and vendors. "It takes very rare skill sets in the NLP community to figure this stuff out," Auker says. "It's incredibly processing and storage intensive, and it takes awhile. If you used pure NLP to tell me everything that's going on, by the time you indexed all the conversations, it might be days or weeks later. By then, the whole universe isn't what it used to be."
First-generation social media monitoring tools provided some direct business value, but they also left users with more questions than answers. And context was a key missing ingredient. Rick Whitney, a director in PwC's Customer Impact practice, makes the following distinction between the first- and second-generation SMI tools: "Without good NLP, the first-generation tools don't give you that same context," he says.
What constitutes good NLP is open to debate, but it's clear that some of the more useful methods blend different detailed levels of analysis and sophisticated filtering, while others stay attuned to the full context of the conversations to ensure that novel and interesting findings that inadvertently could be screened out make it through the filters.
NLP consists of several subareas of computer-assisted language analysis, ways to help scale the extraction of meaning from text or speech. NLP software has been used for several years to mine data from unstructured data sources, and the software had its origins in the intelligence community. During the past few years, the locus has shifted to social media intelligence and marketing, with literally hundreds of vendors springing up.
NLP techniques span a wide range, from analysis of individual words and entities, to relationships and events, to phrases and sentences, to document-level analysis. (See Figure 1.)
Figure 1
The varied paths to meaning in text analytics
The primary NLP techniques include these:
Word or entity (individual element) analysis
Relationship and event analysis
Syntactic (phrase and sentence construction) analysis
Document analysis
NLP applications require the use of several of these techniques together. Some of the most compelling NLP applications for social media analytics include enhanced extraction, filtered keyword search, social graph analysis, and predictive and sentiment analysis.
NLP tools are being used to mine both the text and the metadata in social media. For example, the inTTENSITY Social Media Command Center (SMCC) integrates Attensity Analyze with Inxight ThingFinder—both established tools—to provide a parser for social media sources that include metadata and text. The inTTENSITY solution uses Attensity Analyze for predicate analysis to provide relationship and event analysis, and it uses ThingFinder for noun identification.
Many keyword search methods exist. Most require lists of keywords to be defined and generated. Documents containing those words are matched. WordStream is one of the prominent tools in keyword search for SMI. It provides several ways for enterprises to filter keyword searches.
Social graphs assist in the study of a subject of interest, such as a customer, employee, or brand. These graphs can be used to:
Many NLP-based social graph tools extract and classify entities and relationships in accordance with a defined ontology or graph. But some social media graph analytics vendors, such as Nexalogy Environics, rely on more flexible approaches outside standard NLP. "NLP rests upon what we call static ontologies—for example, the English language represented in a network of tags on about 30,000 concepts could be considered a static ontology," Claude Théoret, president of Nexalogy Environics, explains. "The problem is that the moment you hit something that's not in the ontology, then there's no way of figuring out what the tags are."
In contrast, Nexalogy Environics generates an ontology for each data set, which makes it possible to capture meaning missed by techniques that are looking just for previously defined terms. "That's why our stuff is not quite real time," he says, "because the amount of number crunching you have to do is huge and there's no human intervention whatsoever." (For an example of Nexalogy's approach, see the article, "The third wave of customer analytics," on page 06.)
Predictive analysis can take many forms, and NLP can be involved, or it might not be. Predictive modeling and statistical analysis can be used effectively without the help of NLP to analyze a social network and find and target influencers in specific areas. Before he came to PwC, Mark Paich, a director in the firm's advisory service, did some agent-based modeling3 for a Los Angeles–based manufacturer that hoped to change public attitudes about its products. "We had data on what products people had from the competitors and what people had products from this particular firm. And we also had some survey data about attitudes that people had toward the product. We were able to say something about what type of people, according to demographic characteristics, had different attitudes."
Paich's agent-based modeling effort matched attitudes with the manufacturer's product types. "We calibrated the model on the basis of some fairly detailed geographic data to get a sense as to whose purchases influenced whose purchases," Paich says. "We didn't have direct data that said, 'I influence you.' We made some assumptions about what the network would look like, based on studies of who talks to whom. Birds of a feather flock together, so people in the same age groups who have other things in common tend to talk to each other. We got a decent approximation of what a network might look like, and then we were able to do some statistical analysis."
That statistical analysis helped with the influencer targeting. According to Paich, "It said that if you want to sell more of this product, here are the key neighborhoods. We identified the key neighborhood census tracts you want to target to best exploit the social network effect."
Predictive modeling is helpful when the level of specificity needed is high (as in the Los Angeles manufacturer's example), and it's essential when the cost of a wrong decision is high.4 But in other cases, less formal social media intelligence collection and analysis are often sufficient. When it comes to brand awareness, NLP can help provide context surrounding a spike in social media traffic about a brand or a competitor's brand.
That spike could be a key data point to initiate further action or research to remediate a problem before it gets worse or to take advantage of a market opportunity before a competitor does. (See the article, "The third wave of customer analytics," on page 06.) Because social media is typically faster than other data sources in delivering early indications, it's becoming a preferred means of identifying trends. Many companies mine social media to determine who the key influencers are for a particular product. But mining the context of the conversations via interest graph analysis is important. "As Clay Shirky pointed out in 2003, influence is only influential within a context," Théoret says.
Nearly all SMI products provide some form of timeline analysis of social media traffic with historical analysis and trending predictions.
Even when overall social media traffic is within expected norms or predicted trends, the difference between positive, neutral, and negative sentiment can stand out. Sentiment analysis can suggest whether a brand, customer support, or a service is better or worse than normal. Correlating sentiment to recent changes in product assembly, for example, could provide essential feedback.
Most customer sentiment analysis today is conducted only with statistical analysis. Government intelligence agencies have led with more advanced methods that include semantic analysis. In the US intelligence community, media intelligence generally provides early indications of events important to US interests, such as assessing the impact of terrorist activities on voting in countries the Unites States is aiding, or mining social media for early indications of a disease outbreak. In these examples, social media prove to be one of the fastest, most accurate sources for this analysis.
After considering the breadth of NLP, one key takeaway is to make effective use of a blend of methods. Too simple an approach can't eliminate noise sufficiently or help users get to answers that are available. Too complicated an approach can filter out information that companies really need to have.
Some tools classify many different relevant contexts. ListenLogic, for example, combines lexical, semantic, and statistical analysis, as well as models the company has developed to establish specific industry context. "Our models are built on seeds from analysts with years of experience in each industry. We can put in the word 'Escort' or 'Suburban,' and then behind that put a car brand such as 'Ford' or 'Chevy,'" says Vince Schiavone, co-founder and executive chairman of ListenLogic. "The models combined could be strings of 250 filters of various types." The models fall into five categories:
Other tools, including those from Nexalogy Environics, take a bottom-up approach, using a data set as it comes and, with the help of several proprietary universally applicable algorithms, processing it with an eye toward categorization on the fly. Equally important, Nexalogy's analysts provide interpretations of the data that might not be evident to customers using the same tool. Both kinds of tools have strengths and weaknesses. Table 1 summarizes some of the key best practices when collecting SMI.
Table 1
A few NLP best practices
Good analysis requires consideration of a number of different clues and quite a bit of back-and-forth. It's not a linear process. Some of that process can be automated, and certainly it's in a company's interest to push the level of automation. But it's also essential not to put too much faith in a tool or assume that some kind of automated service will lead to insights that are truly game changing. It's much more likely that the tool provides a way into some far more extensive investigation, which could lead to some helpful insights, which then must be acted upon effectively.
One of the most promising aspects of NLP adoption is the acknowledgment that structuring the data is necessary to help machines interpret it. Developers have gone to great lengths to see how much knowledge they can extract with the help of statistical analysis methods, and it still has legs. Search engine companies, for example, have taken pure statistical analysis to new levels, making it possible to pair a commonly used phrase in one language with a phrase in another based on some observation of how frequently those phrases are used. So statistically based processing is clearly useful. But it's equally clear from seeing so many opaque social media analyses that it's insufficient.
YarcData's uRiKA analytics appliance,1 announced at O'Reilly's Strata data science conference in March 2012, is designed to analyze the relationships between nodes in large graph data sets. To accomplish this feat, the system can take advantage of as much as 512TB of DRAM and 8,192 processors with over a million active threads.
In-memory appliances like these allow very large data sets to be stored and analyzed in active or main memory, avoiding memory swapping to disk that introduces lots of latency. It's possible to load full business intelligence (BI) suites, for example, into RAM to speed up the response time as much as 100 times. (See "What in-memory technology does" on page 33 for more information on in-memory appliances.) With compression, it's apparent that analysts can query true big data (data sets of greater than 1PB) directly in main memory with appliances of this size.
Besides the sheer size of the system, uRiKA differs from other appliances because it's designed to analyze graph data (edges and nodes) that take the form of subject-verb-object triples. This kind of graph data can describe relationships between people, places, and things scalably. Flexible and richly described data relationships constitute an additional data dimension users can mine, so it's now possible, for example, to query for patterns evident in the graphs that aren't evident otherwise, whether unknown or purposely hidden.2
But mining graph data, as YarcData (a unit of Cray) explains, demands a system that can process graphs without relying on caching, because mining graphs requires exploring many alternative paths individually with the help of millions of threads— a very memory- and processor-intensive task. Putting the full graph in a single random access memory space makes it possible to query it and retrieve results in a timely fashion.
The first customers for uRiKA are government agencies and medical research institutes like the Mayo Clinic, but it's evident that social media analytics developers and users would also benefit from this kind of appliance. Mining the social graph and the larger interest graph (the relationships between people, places, and things) is just beginning.3 Claude Théoret of Nexalogy Environics has pointed out that crunching the relationships between nodes at web scale hasn't previously been possible. Analyzing the nodes themselves only goes so far.
1 The YarcData uRiKA Graph Appliance: Big Data Relationship Analytics, Cray white paper, http://www.yarcdata.com/productbrief.html, March 2012, accessed April 3, 2012.
2 Michael Feldman, "Cray Parlays Supercomputing Technology Into Big Data Appliance," Datanami, March 2, 2012, http://www.datanami.com/datanami/2012-03-02/cray_parlays_supercomputing_technology_into_big_data_appliance.html, accessed April 3, 2012.
3 See "The collaboration paradox," Technology Forecast 2011, Issue 3, http://www.pwc.com/us/en/technology-forecast/2011/issue3/features/feature-social-information-paradox.jhtml#, for more information on the interest graph.
Structuring textual data, as with numerical data, is important. Enterprises cannot get to the web of data if the data is not in an analysis-friendly form—a database of sorts. But even when something materializes resembling a better described and structured web, not everything in the text of a social media conversation will be clear. The hope is to glean useful clues and starting points from which individuals can begin their own explorations.
Perhaps one of the more telling trends in social media is the rise of online word-of-mouth marketing and other similar approaches that borrow from anthropology. So-called social ethnographers are monitoring how online business users behave, and these ethnographers are using NLP-based tools to land them in a neighborhood of interest and help them zoom in once there. The challenge is how to create a new social science of online media, one in which the tools are integrated with the science.
1 Shar VanBoskirk, US Interactive Marketing Forecast, 2011 To 2016, Forrester Research report, August 24, 2011, http://www.forrester.com/rb/Research/us_interactive_marketing_forecast%2C_2011_to_2016/q/id/59379/t/2, accessed February 12, 2012.
2 PwC has joint business relationships with SocialRep, ListenLogic, and some of the other vendors mentioned in this publication.
3 Agent-based modeling is a means of understanding the behavior of a system by simulating the behavior of individual actors, or agents, within that system. For more on agent-based modeling, see the article "Embracing unpredictability" and the interview with Mark Paich, "Using simulation tools for strategic decision making," in Technology Forecast 2010, Issue 1, http://www.pwc.com/us/en/technology-forecast/winter2010/index.jhtml, accessed February 14, 2012.
4For more information on best practices for the use of predictive analytics, see Putting predictive analytics to work, PwC white paper, January 2012, http://www.pwc.com/us/en/increasing-it-effectiveness/publications/predictive-analytics-to-work.jhtml, accessed February 14, 2012.