text:
Group Health Insurance
John Jastremski Presents:
Group Health Insurance
With group health insurance, a single policy covers the medical expenses of many different people. Unlike individual insurance, where each person's risk potential is evaluated to determine insurability, group health insurance allows all eligible members of the group to be covered by one policy, regardless of their age or physical condition. The premium for group insurance is calculated based on the characteristics of the group as a whole, such as average age and degree of occupational hazard.
A note about health-care reform
Although the health-care reform laws passed in 2010 do not require employers to provide health insurance coverage, starting in 2014, an annual penalty of $2,000 per full-time employee will be assessed against large employers (i.e., employers with 50 or more full-time employees) who do not offer health benefits and who have at least one full-time employee enrolled in an insurance exchange receiving a premium tax credit. Large employers that offer "unaffordable" coverage will pay an annual penalty of $3,000 for each of their employees enrolled in an insurance exchange and obtaining subsidies to buy insurance. However, the first 30 full-time employees will not be included in either calculation. Employers with 50 or fewer full-time employees are exempt from any penalties.
Also starting in 2014, employers who offer health coverage (and pay a portion of that coverage) will be required to provide free choice vouchers to employees whose household income does not exceed 400 percent of the federal poverty level and who do not participate in the employer's health plan. An employee will qualify for the free choice voucher if the cost of his or her premium under the employer's coverage is between 8 to 9.8 percent of his or her household income. The voucher will equal the amount the employer would have paid on the employee's behalf under the employer's group health plan. The employer will not include the amount of the voucher in the employee's compensation, but will be entitled to a deduction in the amount of the voucher. Employers providing free choice vouchers will not be subject to penalties for any month in which a qualifying employee receives premium credits in the exchange.
When you apply, timing is everything
Many employers offer group health insurance as part of their employee benefits package. Other groups that may offer such coverage include churches, clubs, trade associations, chambers of commerce, and special-interest groups.
Although your individual health is generally not evaluated when you apply for group health insurance, you must apply during the specified eligibility period. For employer-sponsored health insurance, this is often the first 30 days of your employment or the first 30 days following your initial probationary period. For insurance offered by an association, this may be the first 30 days of your membership in the group. Both employers and associations may also have an open enrollment period each year, during which you may sign up for coverage, modify your existing coverage, or add dependents to your coverage. There are also time limits for adding dependents (e.g., within 30 days of marriage or the birth of your child).
The purpose of the eligibility period is to reduce insurance costs by preventing people from waiting until after they discover a health problem to sign up for coverage. If you fail to enroll during this period, the insurance company has the right to treat you as though you were applying for individual insurance. This means you'll probably have to answer extensive health questions and submit to a physical examination. The insurance company can then decide whether or not to insure you.
Starting January 1, 2013, employers must provide written notice to employees of the existence of the state insurance exchange program and their right to purchase insurance through an exchange, the employee's eligibility for a premium tax credit, and the implications with respect to employer contributions for those employee's who elect coverage through an exchange program.
Starting January 1, 2014, group health plans offering health coverage may not contain any waiting period in excess of 90 days.
And, effective upon the issuance of regulations by the Department of Labor, employers with more than 200 full-time employees will be required to enroll (subject to permitted waiting periods) new full-time employees automatically into health insurance plans offered by the employer. Employers must provide employees with adequate notice regarding the auto-enrollment and the opportunity to opt out of such coverage.
The benefits of group coverage
Under a group health insurance plan, the insurance company agrees to insure all members of the group, regardless of their current physical condition or health history. The only requirement is that group members apply for insurance within the specified eligibility period. Clearly, group health insurance is beneficial for those with chronic health conditions who otherwise might be unable to get individual insurance.
Group health insurance is somewhat less risky for insurers than individual insurance, since the risk is spread out among a larger number of people. Within a fairly large group, it's almost certain that the good insurance risks will equal or exceed the bad ones. Because only one policy is issued for the entire group, the cost of establishing and administering group coverage is lower than the cost of issuing an individual policy to each person. This means it generally costs less for you to purchase. And in many cases, your employer or association will pick up some or all of the premiums, making group insurance even more affordable.
Under the health-care reform laws passed in 2010, starting in 2014:
- Group health plans that provide dependent coverage for children must continue such coverage for the participant's dependents until the child reaches age 26 regardless of the child's marital or student status.
- Group health plans are prohibited from imposing any preexisting condition exclusions on plan participants who are under the age of 19.
- Group health plans must provide full coverage (i.e., no deductibles or co-payments) for certain preventative-care items, including immunizations, child and adolescent health screenings, breast cancer screenings and mammograms.
- Group health plans are prohibited from establishing annual limits on the dollar value of benefits for any participant or beneficiary.
- Group health plans are prohibited from retroactively cancelling health coverage except when the plan participant engages in fraud or intentional misrepresentation of material facts. In such limited instances, coverage may only be cancelled upon prior notice.
- Employers are permitted to offer employees enhanced rewards (in the form of premium discounts, waivers of cost-sharing requirements, or benefits that would otherwise not be provided) of up to 30 percent of the cost of employee-only coverage for participating in a wellness program and meeting certain health-related standards.
And, starting June 1, 2014, all health plan policies, individual or group, must cover "essential health benefits". These benefits include the following: (1) ambulatory patient services. (2) emergency services. (3) hospitalization. (4) maternity and newborn care. (5) mental health and substance use disorder services, including behavioral health treatment, (6) rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices, (7) prescription drugs, (8) laboratory services, (9) preventive and wellness services and chronic disease management, and (10) pediatric services, including oral and vision care.
The drawbacks of group coverage
In a group insurance situation, the provisions of the policy are negotiated between the insurer and the master policyowner (usually an employer or association). Therefore, you can't customize your policy. You don't have the freedom to pick and choose provisions, and your deductible amount and co-payment percentage are determined in advance. In some situations, however, you may be able to choose between two or more insurance plans.
What you should look for in a group policy
Sometimes you have to take what you can get, but if possible, look for an insurer that's financially stable–one with an "A" or "A+" rating from A. M. Best, Moody's, or Standard & Poor's. It does you no good to have a great insurance policy if your company goes belly-up.
You'll also want to find a policy with the highest lifetime payout possible. Policies with unlimited payouts are less common these days, but anything less than $1 million may be insufficient to cover you in the event of a catastrophic illness.
If you do have a choice between two offered plans, you'll want to think about the limits you set on your out-of-pocket costs. Also, most employer groups review and compare differences in the health policies they provide to their employees, so check with your benefits or compensation manager to get comparable information about the different plans and covered benefits offered. Many managed care companies and other insurance carriers will send you free marketing brochures about the plan benefits. Lower deductibles and co-payments mean that your costs will be lower if you actually do get sick, but you'll pay dearly for this protection. By agreeing to higher deductibles and co-payments, you can cut your insurance premiums dramatically. As long as youretain a reasonable out-of-pocket maximum, you shouldn't have to worry about your medical costs getting out of hand.
This material was prepared by Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of John Jastremski, Jeremy Keating, Erik J Larsen, Frank Esposito, Patrick Ray, Robert Welsch, Michael Reese, Brent Wolf, Andy Starostecki and The Retirement Group or FSC Financial Corp. This information should not be construed as investment advice. Neither the named Representatives nor Broker/Dealer gives tax or legal advice. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If other expert assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. Please consult your Financial Advisor for further information or call 800-900-5867.
The Retirement Group is not affiliated with nor endorsed by fidelity.com, netbenefits.fidelity.com, hewitt.com, resources.hewitt.com, access.att.com, ING Retirement, AT&T, Qwest, Chevron, Hughes, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, ExxonMobil, Glaxosmithkline, Merck, Pfizer, Verizon, Bank of America, Alcatel-Lucent or by your employer. We are an independent financial advisory group that specializes in transition planning and lump sum distribution. Please call our office at 800-900-5867 if you have additional questions or need help in the retirement planning process.
John Jastremski is a Representative with FSC Securities and may be reached at www.theretirementgroup.com.
Comments are closed.


text:
From inside the book
19 pages matching tenants in this book
Where's the rest of this book?
Results 1-3 of 19
What people are saying - Write a review
We haven't found any reviews in the usual places.
Other editions - View all
Common terms and phrases
answer anyway apartment better bother breath Brenda briefcase called cast Chad Buckley chain saw coffee condos Coq au Vin couch course crutches Day Leclaire deadline Debbie Macomber Eagle's Landing Eagleton Elliot Development exactly eyes face fact feel floor going gone hand Harlequin Harlequin books Jessica Hart Karr Elliot Karr's kissed kitchen knew leaned lease Leigh Michaels Libby Libby's living Maggie asked Maggie looked Maggie thought Maggie's matter Mercedes Midnight Sons mind minute morning move never nice once picked pizza pulled Rawlings realized rent seemed she'd shook her head shoulder shrugged sighed slid smiled sorry sort sounded stairs stared started stopped sure talking tell tenants there's thing told tomorrow took toupee town houses Tripp trouble trying Tudor revival turned voice wait walk warm watch weeks window woman wonder

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Related Items
Trending Stories
Anson Dorrance Describes the Daring Decisions He Made in the '91 Women's World Cup and the Dynasty He Helped Create
Dorrance became the head coach for the Women's National Team in 1986. He compiled an impressive record of 66-22-5 during his eight years with the team before Tony DiCiccio took over in 1994. In 1991 Dorrance led the WNT to the first ever FIFA Women's World Cup in China. Despite a young squad and fierce competition, the team won the World Cup and created a dynasty of U.S. Women's Soccer that lives on today. Below Dorrance describes for readers his memories of the 1991 World Cup and how he led his young team to be World Champions.
ussoccer.com: In 1991, you brought in a lot of young players for that run to the World Cup. What inspired you to do that? At the time you talked about how it was a little bit of a risk since they were just kids...
Anson Dorrance: "When we were forming this National Team, we really didn't know when the World Cup would have its first show. We thought it was going to be in '90, '91 or '92 but we weren't sure when FIFA was going to host it. The team I had already was actually a quality team. We had a lot of outstanding senior level players. But Hank Leung, our national youth coach at the time, had this U19 team that was special. Everyone will recognize the names - Mia Hamm, Kristine Lilly, Julie Fowdy, Joy Fawcett, Carla Overbeck. It was just laced with these kids that I thought were going to be our future.
ussoccer.com: In that period leading up to 1990-91, that team, yourself, and your coaching staff certainly set the foundation for what the National team has grown in to, which is what some would say is the most successful and most popular women's team in the world. What are your pillars of that tradition that were established back then?
AD: "I think the key element was that we were different. We played a different style. We were very American in the way we approached the game and in our confidence going in to matches. We built our foundation on things like the individual duel. We were going to win every head ball, we were going to win every tackle, and we were going to win every one vs. one contest when we were running at defenses.
"There was also an incredible bond among all of the players. Back then we had so few training camps that we really had to rely on this self-coach idea. When our players left the training camp they weren't going to come back in two or three months, they were going to come back to camp in a year. In this interim period the players had to train on their own. So we had to find the sort of women that had this discipline, when no one cared about them or their game, to get out there and do some work and reach their potential on their own. There are a lot of very unique things about this team and I think the strains of that are still what set the U.S. apart right now."ussoccer.com: You talked a bit about how you took some lumps leading in to the tournament; did the world view you as the favorites going in to the '91 World Cup or did you know in your mind you were?
AD: "No the world didn't view us as favorites. They thought we would melt under the pressure of a World Cup. They thought we didn't have coaches with the experience to navigate this sort of world event. I remember people saying that traditional powers like Germany would take over and this wouldn't be a successful outing for the United States. But I remember thinking to myself, I think they are wrong; I think we can win the whole thing.
What was fun about taking our team in to the World Cup was that we were absolutely unorthodox. We played a 3-4-3 which was like sacrilegious. People thought, 'you're not playing a 4-4-2, what kind of tactical midgets are you? You're going to high-pressure? You can't high-pressure in an event where you have a game every three days.'
So it was one criticism after another and one explanation after another why we weren't going to be successful. But in the back of my mind I was thinking, I think we're going to win this thing, I think we've got a shot. I don't care what anyone says, we are going to go after this and I think we're going to shock some teams. We proceeded to just go after teams and score goals."
ussoccer.com: What were some of the highlights of that 1991 World Cup tournament for you? What memories really pop out, whether they were on or off the field?
AD: "The highlight for me was that we could play at this level. We were going to be a factor and people were going to have to deal with us. Countries had never played against a team like ours. They had never seen these one vs. one personalities that we had. If you looked at our front seven, almost every player was an elite take on artist. We were great duelers. We were gritty. We were to some extent irreverent because we didn't worship at the altar of the 4-4-2 and we didn't play the ball around in the back for half an hour to show we could possess it. We were different and we scared teams because we were different. We made a statement about who we were and it was a wonderful coming out party for the United States."
ussoccer.com: Michelle Akers scored 10 goals in the tournament, which is still a World Cup record. But in the semifinal, all of your goals were scored by Heinrichs and Jennings. Was that semifinal a shocker for the Germans do you think?
AD: "Our best game of the tournament was the semifinal against the Germans. The coolest thing about that victory was the German coach we beat in that game. Their coach was the Director of Coaching for Germany who had decided to basically adopt the women's team to help his country out. This was someone who had trained the elite coaches in the Bundesliga. This was the guy who would instruct all of the elite coaches about the cutting edge of the game at the international level.
"What was cool is that it was almost like I read his book because I knew what he was going to do. He was going to play a certain way regardless. His center back was going to get the ball and play it out to the right back. Then the right back was going to look for it, see that nothing was on, and was going to patiently play it back to the center back, who was now going to change the point and play it out to the left back. So I'm sitting there thinking, he's not going to change; this is the way they play and they're not going to change. Now of course that was the perfect system for us to play against because if they played it out to their left or right back, we were going to pressure that back. If they played it back to their sweeper, we were going to pressure their sweeper. So we lit them up by high pressuring them, winning the ball in their half, and then with a short distance to the goal, we were going to have opportunities to score and that's exactly what happened."ussoccer.com: Moving on to the final. Not many people have really seen the 1991 World Cup final in this day and age. Can you tell us how that match went? Was it back and forth?
AD: "No it wasn't back and forth. By this point we were shredded. All of the criticisms of the American system were brought to bear because now we didn't have our legs left. We had completely emptied our tank against the Germans and we could hardly move. But the one quality we had that continues to separate us from everyone in the world is this indomitable spirit. The Norwegians actually dominated the game. We won against the run because of a remarkable personality in the body of Michelle Akers, and the great vision and service ability of Shannon Higgins. We were absolutely spent at this point in the tournament and we won against the run of play.
"One thing I'll never forget was the comment the Norwegian coach said after the game. I basically conceded in the press conference after the game that this was Norway's game and we won against the run. I've never been a coach to try to puff something up that wasn't true so I conceded that in the press conference. The thing I really respect the Norwegian coach for was after the game he said, 'well this might be true that this may have been a better game for us, but this tournament for the United States was extraordinary. None of us have seen a team play with this sort of attacking aggression for an entire event and so you are worthy World Champions'."I really appreciated that gesture from a wonderful rival whom I respected on and off the field. We won that game against the run of play because of the indefatigable human spirit. We won it for the very reasons the U.S. is continuing to win. This mentality has always separated us even going back to 1991."
ussoccer.com: What are your thoughts on watching those kids such as Lily, Fawcett, Fowdy, and Mia grow in to the players that basically made this program what it was?
AD: "I'm incredibly proud of them. We invested in them early at a huge risk and they paid us back. There was no guarantee this was going to work. It was a huge gamble. When you take young kids you never know where their game is going to go. Yet they cleared every hurdle and they became dynastic. After '91 we had these blooded World Champions who were teenagers or just out of teenage hood and now they got to mature on the world stage as they started to achieve their playing peak. Your playing peak isn't 19, 20, or 21, it's a lot later. So then this matured team got to put its stamp on the international game.
"The players were so young then and they kept getting better and better and the team evolved. I think the team has been evolving ever since. I think Tony DiCiccio did a wonderful job when he became our head coach and I think every coach since has added a nuance or an embellishment on to this bedrock that was started in '91. I think we are continuing to evolve. I think Pia Sundhage did a wonderful job polishing this diamond and making us more sophisticated and bringing us in to this tactical, technical era. I think Tom Sermanni will do the same thing. I think he's a brilliant coach. I think he will continue to polish this diamond, and I think the U.S. still has a tremendous future in the women's game."
ussoccer.com: You've seen many big events now over the past ten years whether it's the '99 World Cup or the '96 Olympics or the 2011 World Cup in Germany and of course the 2012 Olympics. Recently we went on this ten game tour and we averaged 17,000 fans a game. How fun has it been for you to watch where we are now coming from where you started way back then?
AD: "It is fun. And it makes me feel great because the women's game is still relevant. It's becoming more and more media centered. You can pick up almost any newspaper or watch through any media outlet that we're going to be covered. Our role models are wonderful. Let's face it, we have wonderful interesting personalities and you know what, they can play. I just love where the women's game is now and where it is going."


text:
Wholesale Electronics Product | Online Wholesale Electronics Items 1 Item(s)
Online Wholesale Electronics Items
MCJBazaar is best Wholesale Electronics Product Manufacturer in India. With our wide range of Wholesale Electronic Products we serve our customers the best products. Whether you are looking for Laptop, Mobile Phone, Television or any other electronic item we can help you find it.
Our mission is to provide best online wholesale Electronic Items to our customers with best quality and in cheap price. MCJBazaar directly connects to factory and reach all over India with Quality guarantee, discounted pricing, hot deals.
HP t5740 thin client cloud computer Atom 1.66Ghz 1GB RAM 2GB Flash Embedded Standard 2009
Regular Price: Rs 12,500
Special Price Rs 8,450


text:
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Walking the big cat
To say that we are slightly worried by Her latest painting would be an understatement.
Posted by The Ginger Darlings at 12:06 AM
Labels: The House of Golden Dreams
7 comments:
my my thats one big cat,, one should be worried,, very worried,,, no no ,, big but no danger,, look how easily led,,
- May 12, 2011 at 12:53 AM
- Mr Puddy said...
But I think It's cool painting !!!
- May 12, 2011 at 1:33 AM
- ChrisJ said...
Blessings on Elmo, Pixie and Max may they live forever.
- May 12, 2011 at 4:16 AM
- Sheelagh said...
Love it! Love It!
- May 12, 2011 at 4:52 PM
- Estorbo said...
Doan' worree. Beeg lions steenk. Thad ees whad the Wooman tole' me. They steenk, an' are berber lazee. Pequeno cads lighe ors, we smell goo' an' talgh nice. Sormtimes.
- May 12, 2011 at 9:22 PM
Wow - that's amazing! We really love it. And if we could find the money in mum's purse we'd surely get her one. So when does this guy join your family..:)
- May 16, 2011 at 3:36 AM
- Chris said...
Wow.. Amazing cat art. I actually really wish I could draw this well. Great work on the bags, is that embroidery or something?
- August 26, 2011 at 5:51 AM
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
Philipp Melanchthon, original name Philipp Schwartzerd, (born February 15, 1497, Bretten, Palatinate [Germany]—died April 19, 1560, probably Wittenberg, Saxony), German author of the Augsburg Confession of the Lutheran Church (1530), humanist, Reformer, theologian, and educator. He was a friend of Martin Luther and defended his views. In 1521 Melanchthon published the Loci communes, the first systematic treatment of the new Wittenberg theology developed by Luther. Because of his academic expertise, he was asked to help in founding schools, and he played an important role in reforming public schools in Germany.
Early life and education
Melanchthon inherited from his parents, Barbara Reuter and Georg Schwartzerd, a deep sense of piety that never left him. From his Bretten surroundings (where five citizens were burned as witches in 1504), he absorbed a sense of the occult that combined later with biblical references to stars, dreams, and devils to make him a firm believer in astrology and demonology. In 1508, within a period of 11 days, both his grandfather Reuter and his father died, his father after four years of invalidism.
Humanism predominated in Melanchthon's education, his studies having been directed by a great-uncle, Johannes Reuchlin, who was a famed Hebraist and humanist. Philipp's first tutor instilled in him a lifelong love of Latin and Classical literature, and at the Pforzheim Latin school he received further humanistic training and had his name changed from Schwartzerd to its Greek equivalent, Melanchthon (meaning "black earth").
While at the Universities of Heidelberg (1509–11; B.A.) and Tübingen (1512–14; M.A.), Melanchthon explored the teachings of Scholasticism, steeped himself in the rhetoric of the Dutch humanist Rodolphus Agricola and the Nominalism of the English philosopher William of Ockham and the ecclesiastical reformer John of Wesel, studied scripture, and read Classical works. On receiving the M.A. degree, he lectured, with conspicuous success, on the classics and soon had six books to his credit, including Rudiments of the Greek Language (1518), a grammar that was to go through many editions. He was praised by the great Dutch humanist Erasmus, and his name became known in England. In the best tradition of the time, Melanchthon was a humanist.
In 1518 Melanchthon accepted an invitation, relayed through Reuchlin, to become the University of Wittenberg's first professor of Greek. Only four days after his arrival, he addressed the university on "The Improvement of Studies," boldly setting forth a humanistic program and calling for a return to Classical and Christian sources in order to regenerate theology and rejuvenate society.
Luther and the Reformation
Luther, the founder of the Protestant Reformation, and Melanchthon responded to each other enthusiastically, and their deep friendship developed. Melanchthon committed himself wholeheartedly to the new Evangelical cause, initiated the previous year when Luther circulated his Ninety-five Theses. (See Researcher's Note: The posting of the theses.) By the end of 1519 he had already defended scriptural authority against Luther's opponent Johann Eck, rejected (before Luther did) transubstantiation—the doctrine that the substance of the bread and wine in the Lord's Supper is changed into the body and blood of Christ—made justification by faith the keystone of his theology, and openly broken with Reuchlin.
During this time he had also published seven more small books and had earned the bachelor of theology degree at Wittenberg. His energy was phenomenal. He began his day at 2:00 am and gave lectures, often to as many as 600 students, at 6:00. In addition, he found time to court Katherine Krapp, whom he married in 1520 and who bore him four children—Anna, Philipp, Georg, and Magdalen.
At Luther's urging, Melanchthon lectured on Paul's Letter to the Romans and in 1521 published the Loci communes rerum theologicarum ("Theological Commonplaces"), the first systematic treatment of Reformation thought. Sin, law, and grace were the principal topics, with free will, vows, hope, confession, and other doctrines subsumed. Drawing on scripture, Melanchthon argued that sin is more than an external act; it reaches beyond reason into human will and emotions so that the individual human cannot simply resolve to do good works and earn merit before God. Original sin is a native propensity, an inordinate self-concern tainting all man's actions. But God's grace consoles man with forgiveness, and man's works, though imperfect, are a response in joy and gratitude for divine benevolence. Three editions of the Loci communes appeared before the end of the year and 18 editions by 1525, in addition to printings of a German translation. The last edition in 1558 was much enlarged and changed. Luther declared that the Loci communes deserved a place in the canon of scriptures; the University of Cambridge in England later made it required reading, and Queen Elizabeth I virtually memorized it so she could converse about theology.
Despite an imperial decree of death to those who supported Luther, in 1521 Melanchthon sharply answered the Sorbonne's condemnation of 104 statements of Luther with "Against the Furious Decree of the Parisian Theologasters." When Melanchthon hesitated to publish his lectures on Corinthians, Luther took a copy and published them in 1521 with a preface saying, "It is I who publish these annotations of yours, and send you to yourself." In 1523 Luther did the same with Melanchthon's notes on John.
In 1521, during Luther's stay on the Wartburg, Melanchthon was the leader of the Reformation cause at Wittenberg. After the First Diet of Speyer (1526), where a precarious peace was patched up for the Reform movement, Melanchthon was chosen as one of the 28 commissioners to visit Saxony and regulate the constitution of the churches. In 1528 this resulted in the publication of Unterricht der Visitatoren ("Instructions for Visitors"), a set of instructions for the commissioners. In addition to a statement of Evangelical doctrine, it contained an outline of education for the elementary grades, which was enacted into law in Saxony to establish the first public school system. Melanchthon's educational plan was widely copied throughout Germany, and at least 56 cities asked his advice in founding schools. Through his lectures and textbooks, and the teachers he trained, Melanchthon exercised great influence in Protestant Germany. He helped found the universities of Königsberg, Jena, and Marburg and reformed those of Greifswald, Wittenberg, Cologne, Tübingen, Leipzig, Heidelberg, Rostock, and Frankfurt an der Oder. His efforts earned him the title "Preceptor of Germany."
The Augsburg Confession
Melanchthon was present when the protest, from which the term Protestant originated, was lodged in the name of freedom of conscience against the Roman Catholic majority at the Second Diet of Speyer (1529). At the Diet of Augsburg (1530) Melanchthon was the leading representative of the Reformation, and it was he who prepared the Augsburg Confession, which influenced other credal statements in Protestantism. In the Confession he sought to be as inoffensive to the Catholics as possible while forcefully stating the Evangelical position. In the ensuing negotiations over adoption of the confessional statement, he seemed to compromise, but the vigour of his Apology of the Confession of Augsburg (1531) belied any change. The Apology and Confession quickly became Lutheran symbols (authoritative statements of faith), as did one other Melanchthon treatise, his Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope, which was an addition to the Schmalkaldic Articles of 1536–37, another Lutheran confessional statement. In the treatise, Melanchthon refuted historically and theologically any papal primacy by divine right but accepted papal jurisdiction as a human right for the sake of peace, if the Gospel were permitted. After the Diet of Augsburg further attempts were made to settle the Reformation controversies by compromise, and Melanchthon, from his conciliatory spirit and facility of access, appeared to the defenders of Roman Catholicism as the fittest of the Reformers with whom to deal. Despite frequent charges of collaboration with Roman Catholicism, Melanchthon staunchly upheld the tenets of justification by faith and scriptural authority.
Later years
The year after Luther's death, when the Battle of Mühlberg (1547) had dealt a seemingly crushing blow to the Protestant cause, an attempt was made to unite the Evangelicals and Roman Catholics in a provisional agreement, the Augsburg Interim. Melanchthon refused to accept the Interim until justification by faith was ensured as a fundamental doctrine. Then, for the sake of order and peace, he declared that those principles which did not violate justification by faith might be observed as adiaphora, or nonessentials. He allowed the necessity of good works to salvation, but not in the old sense of meriting righteousness; and he accepted the seven sacraments, but only as rites that had no inherent efficacy to salvation. Melanchthon was bitterly criticized by fellow Protestants for his conciliatory stand on the Interim. His later years were occupied with controversies within the Evangelical church and fruitless conferences with his Roman Catholic adversaries. He died in 1560 and was buried in Wittenberg beside Luther.
Melanchthon's literary facility, clear thought, and elegant style of expression made him the scribe of the Reformation and the representative of the Evangelicals at numerous colloquies. He never attained entire independence of Luther, though he gradually modified some of his positions. These modifications centred on the Eucharist, the human role in conversion, and the place of good works.
As late as 1530 Melanchthon agreed with Luther on the Eucharist, but his own views had begun to shift from Luther's, and the changes that Melanchthon introduced in 1540 in the 10th article of the Augsburg Confession indicated that his view on the Eucharist paralleled John Calvin's.
Melanchthon also came to hold that humans play a part in conversion. At first, following Luther's cardinal doctrine of grace, Melanchthon seemed to reject free will, and he pushed the Augustinian doctrine of irresistible grace close to fatalism. However, his Commentaria in epistolam Pauli ad Colossenses (1527; Commentary on Colossians) implied a rejection of predestination, and by 1532 in the Commentarii in epistolam Pauli ad Romanos (Commentary on Romans) he spoke of the human struggle to accept or reject the love of God. In the 1535 edition of Loci communes he pointed out that the individual must at least accept the gift of God's salvation and that individuals are therefore responsible for their destiny. This view is clearly expressed in De anima (1540; "On the soul"): "God draws, but he draws him who is willing."
Because of his interest in ethics, Melanchthon increasingly emphasized good works as the inevitable fruits of faith. Luther was disposed to make faith itself the principle of sanctification, but Melanchthon laid more stress on law. In his "Instructions for Visitors" articles of 1528 he urged pastors to instruct people in the necessity of repentance and to bring the threat of the law to bear upon men in order to instill faith. This brought upon him the opposition of the antinomian Johann Agricola. In the Loci communes of 1535 Melanchthon sought to put the fact of the coexistence of justification and good works in the believer on a secure basis by declaring the latter "necessary" to eternal life. For the sake of public order, Melanchthon was led to lay more and more stress upon the law and moral ideas, but his Evangelical position was that man is saved by faith and that good works are the "necessary" expression of faith, for good works flow from faith.Clyde L. Manschreck


text:
Eagles' Jenkins Continues To Lead Charge On Protests
One of the most outspoken players during the national anthem protest debate is in the Eagles locker room. Safety Malcolm Jenkins said yesterday that players around the league will continue in their efforts to raise awareness about social injustice. Jenkins was one of four players who requested league support, asking for a month to be dedicated to social activism.
On Tuesday, commissioner Roger Goodell sent a letter to NFL teams expressing his belief that "everyone should stand for the national anthem".
Photo: AOL


text:
I hope that PeHaa is back! Let's restart with a set of 25 hi-res Photoshop Brushes entitled Botanical Garden. I find it quite a good proposition for my first post this spring. Enjoy, you are free to use them for both your personal and commercial projects.
By the way, have you noticed that the design of pehaa.com changed a bit? Don't hesitate to let me know how you like it.
Freebies by PeHaa: Hi-res Photoshop brushes
25 in set, abr.zip, 2.6 MB.
All made by me. Free for both personal and commercial use. If you host them, please link this site.
Please share, bookmark and/or leave a comment here if you liked this post.


text:
joewein.de LLC
fighting spam and scams on the Internet
Victims never receive this non-existent fortune but are tricked into sending their money to the criminals, who remain anonymous. They hide their real identity and location by using fake names and fake postal addresses as well as communicating via anonymous free email accounts and mobile phones.
Read more about such scams here or in our 419 FAQ. Use the Scam-O-Matic to verify suspect emails.
Click here to report a problem with this page.
Some comments by the Scam-O-Matic about the following email:
Fraud email example:
From: "Gloria Pelaez" <firstname.lastname@example.com> (may be fake)
Reply-To: firstname.lastname@example.com
Date: Mon, 12 Jun 2006 15:09:47 +0200
Subject: I am Mrs Gloria Pelaez.
I am Mrs Gloria Pelaez.
A complete citizen of Philippines . I was the Wife of Late Mr Emmanuel N.Pelaez of Philippines he worked with America Embassy as An Ambassador for years and hold Political positions in Philippines before he died in the year July 27 2003. We were married for 19 years without a child. He died after a brief illness that lasted for only four days. Before his death we were both born again Christians and we lived happilly. Since his death, I decided not to re-marry or get a child outside my matrimonial home due to the love i have for my late Husband. Before my husband Death I inherited a total sum of (9million United state dollars) from my late Husband when he was in his Sick bed, This money which is concealed in a metallic trunk box is deposited with a security and finance company in Cote d' ivoire under a secret arrangement as a family treasure. This means that the security company does not know the content of this box that was shipped from the Philippine!
to Cote d' ivoire under a diplomatic coverage. Recently l Fell Sick and my Doctor told me that from all the test conducted on my health, Without and Urgent and a specialist From your Country I am not going to last long, expecially, due to my Throat cancer and stroke. But what disturbs me most now is stroke.
Having known my condition, I decided to Contact you and Reveal to you in person Regarding my Heritage from my Late husband after my late husband brothers has neglected me and has well sit on my late husband properties and his bank accounts.so i will seek the help of your Christian or you inperson that will help me Secure the release of this Fund from were it was deposited and utilize this money the way I am going to instruct. and also help me to your Country for best Medical Treatment. I took this decision because I don't have any child that will inherit this money and my husband relatives Have kept me under dureces just to know the wereabout of this said fund, after they have inherited all my late Husband Properties because l could'nt bear a Child for their Late brother. I don't want my husband's hard earned money WILL to me to be misused or taken from me by my late husband wicked brothers and use for their own selfish interest and in an ungodly manner. I don'!
t need any telephone communication in this regard because of my health, and because of the presence of my husband's relatives around me sometimes. I don't want them to know about this development, but I know that With God all things are possible.
As soon as I receive your reply in my next mail I shall give you the contact of the Security and finance company in Ivory coast and the Authorization Certificate which is the Certificate of deposit that they gave me on the very day when the box of money was deposited under their company to enable you call them and give them your address for the immediate shipment of the box to you as the original- beneficiary of this fund. I want you and your church to always pray for me because God work in misterious ways. My happiness is that I lived a life of a worthy Christian.
Who ever that wants to serve the Lord must serve him in spirit and truth. Please always be prayerful all through your life.
Any delay in your reply will give me room in sourcing for another christian individual for this same purpose. Please assure me that you will act accordingly as I stated herein.
Hoping to hear from you soon .Indicate your intrest. Remain blessed in the name of the Lord.
Yours in Christ,
Mrs Gloria Pelaez
Anti-fraud resources:


text: Home / About Kichler / News Room / Kichler Press Releases / 1-19-12 Mirrors Kichler Mirrors Follow On-Trend Designs and Create Inspiring Focal Points Fifteen new mirrors offer fresh transitional styles to fit with any room's décor CLEVELAND – Jan. 19, 2012 – Fresh. On-Trend. Inspirational. Homeowners are selecting mirrors with these characteristics not only for their reflective value, but also to add ambience to home spaces. With mid-century modern, geometric shapes, naturalistic and fresh traditional styling on-trend for 2012, Kichler's new line of decorative mirrors adds exciting focal points in a wide range of looks. "There are two things to consider when selecting a mirror for a room: size and style," said Jeffrey Dross, Kichler's corporate director of education and industry trends. "Carefully selecting the correct proportions and proper style makes mirrors a highlight of a well-designed room for a more appealing home." Whether it's a large foyer with contemporary style and art, a traditional living room filled with warm materials or a small rustic bathroom, Kichler's mirrors are designed to make a statement and appeal to a wide range of tastes. New styles include: Mid-Century Modern Cloverleaf – This oversized mirror features byzantine styling in a modified cloverleaf shape conveying medieval overtones. Rectangular pieces of glass in a silver finish make up the frame. (Dimensions: 36" x 36") Gibraltar – This fun, contemporary mirror features a dimensional frame with diagonal angles forming triangles. Beveled pieces of glass make up the entire frame including the inner lip, creating a mirror on mirror look. (Dimensions: 30" x 40") Geometric Shapes Rhombus – Great to use in multiples, this new traditional mirror has a warm antique camel finish. A ridged inner lip highlights the diamond-shape. (Dimensions: 28" x 48") Raleigh – This casual oval piece features a brown textured frame with a gold rub that surrounds a beveled mirror. (Dimensions: 24" x 38") Quadrant – A bronze metal frame that will take on the color of the wall behind it frames this simple beveled mirror. (Dimensions: 20" x 36") Clark – Perfect for a rustic bath or foyer with slate floors, this rectangular beveled mirror features a faux slate base at the top or bottom – whichever you prefer – and is surrounded by a medium-distressed walnut frame. (Dimensions: 30" x 40") Belvedere – The deep, dark brown frame stands out on this decorative beveled mirror. Long and rectangular, the frame resembles a wooden shadowbox and features a bronzed beaded inner lip. (Dimensions: 20" x 34") Naturalistic Borders Oak Leaf – This mirror has a casual look with oak leaves and wood branches woven throughout its rectangular frame. The mirror has a burnished brown frame with golden highlights and is a great fit for any relaxed room. (Dimensions: 32 ½" x 41 ½") Quill – An antique silver frame with burnished bronze highlights surrounds this oversized mirror. Feather-like bordering allows this beveled mirror to stand out in any room. (Dimensions: 43 ½" x 46 ½") Acanthus – As its name implies, an acanthus leaf design borders this fresh traditional mirror. A Distressed silver frame adds richness to the piece. (Dimensions: 30" x 36") Silver Scallop – This mirror features a shell-like shape with a distressed antique silver frame. Perfect for any room. (Dimensions: 34" x 34") Fresh Traditional Traditional Scroll – Traditional scroll-like accents surround this square statement-making mirror. A distressed wood tone inner and outer lip and Aged Black inner frame bring the antique gold scrolling to the forefront of the mirror. (Dimensions: 30" x 30") Camelot – A silver leaf finish outlines the black frame of this eye-catching mirror. Its updated oval shape is ideal for fresh traditional style. (Dimensions: 22" x 40" ) Nadia – The simple, arch style of this traditional mirror in fruitwood finish is ideal for a foyer or bathroom. It can also be used in pairs in master baths or bedrooms. (Dimensions: 20" x 40") Etiquette – The simple burnished golden bronze frame is an uncomplicated traditional mirror. Ideal for a many spaces. (Dimensions: 20" x 36") Kichler® is a world leader in decorative lighting and ceiling fans, encompassing more than 3,000 products, including chandeliers, wall sconces, bath lighting, ceiling fans, under-cabinet lighting, landscape lighting, outdoor lighting, lamps, mirrors and accessories. A leader in energy-efficient technology, Kichler's line of Design Pro LED fixtures feature several winners of the Lighting for Tomorrow Award, sponsored by the Consortium for Energy Efficiency, the U.S. Department of Energy and the American Lighting Association. Kichler products can be purchased at independent lighting showrooms nationwide. View Kichler products, as well as interactive electronic catalogs, at www.kichler.com.


text:
Can't remember where your irrigation valves are located? Are you troubleshooting wire problems and can't find your wires?
Well STOP playing Hide and SEEK! The NEW Armada Pro-700 Valve and Wire locator is for rent here at Sprinkler Warehouse!
That's right... Sprinkler Warehouse understands that every year the average do-it-yourself homeowner struggles to find valves and wires buried in the ground, but does not want to hire a contractor or buy an expensive piece of equipment they will rarely use.
You can now rent the Armada Pro-700 Valve and Wire Locator for a small daily rental fee!
The NEW Armada Pro 700 Wire Finder and Sprinkler Valve Wire Tracker finds and tracks irrigation wiring, valves, and wiring faults. Lightweight, the Pro700 comes complete the Pro700R Receiver, Pro700T transmitter/Carrying Case, Pro700ST Ground Stake, and User Guide.
The Pro-700 Wire and Sprinkler Valve Wire Tracker is a new irrigation tester for irrigation contractors and sprinkler maintenance personnel. Incorporating a powerful transmitter and sensitive receiver, the Pro700 tracks irrigation wires, finds missing sprinkler valves, and detects damage to vulnerable underground cabling.
The Pro700 transmits an easy to follow beeping signal that is tracked by the extra long receiver. Simply connect the transmitter to ground and the wire to be tracked and turn it on. Follow the beeps with the receiver using the visual meter, external speaker, or a headset. It is that simple.
* Color of headphones is subject to change.
Features & Benefits
Pro-700 Rental Instructions:
Pro-700 Equipment Return Instructions:
Manuals and Literature


text:
Gynexin UK - Gynecomastia treatment UK - Male Breast Reduction UK
Gynexin™ Alpha Formula is an amazing new male breast reduction product. It is the only effective pill treatment for men who suffer from Gynecomastia, more commonly known as man boobs. We know Gynexin™ works for 99% of men and we guarantee its results! Gynexin™ is safe and effective. You're not alone if your appearance troubles you. Approximately one out of every three men is diagnosed with Gynecomastia. Before you make the risky and costly decision to undergo surgery, try affordable Gynexin™ today! Now available in the UK!


text:
Like previous models in Lexus's long-lived ES line, the Lexus ES350 is a refined and roomy entry-level luxury sedan. Lexus named the fifth generation ES model for its 3.5-liter V-6 engine, the largest and most powerful in the ES series as of 2012.
The ES350 made its first appearance as a 2007 model at the 2006 Chicago Auto Show. In addition to a bigger powertrain, the sedan showed off a subtly sleeker body style. Similar changes were also made to the ES350 sister car, the Toyota Camry. For the first time, the front-wheel drive sedan, along with the Camry, was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Standard interior features in all ES350 models include alloy wheels, leather trim, a choice of walnut or bird's eye maple detailing, a power sunroof, and a power rear sunshade. A number of packages add optional upgrades such as a navigation system with backup camera and voice command, heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium 14-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.
ES350 models produced after 2009 also feature standard leather seats, chrome accents, Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and side rear airbags. The Lexus Enform and Safety Connect telematics system was added as an option in 2010.
The Lexus ES350 is known for bridging the gap between sophisticated luxury and everyday convenience. As one of the more moderately-priced Lexus models, the ES350 is considered by many to be an optimal entry-level executive sedan. Room for five people and 14.7 cubic feet of trunk space make the vehicle ideal for work commutes and family excursions.
Meanwhile, a large number of standard premium features put the ES350 squarely into the luxury sedan segment. As of 2010, all ES350 models came equipped with leather upholstery, wood and chrome trim, a sunroof, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
As with other ES models, the 2012 Lexus ES350 is offered in a single well-equipped trim. An ES350 Touring Special Edition also became available in 2012.
Both the base ES350 and the special edition are fitted with a 3.5-liter 268-horsepower V-6 with dual variable valve timing, giving the car a zero to 60 mph acceleration of seven seconds. A double exhaust system is standard.
Standard equipment on the base ES350 includes leather-trimmed interior, push-button start and stop, a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, a power sunroof, dual-zone climate control, brown walnut or espresso bird's-eye maple wood trim, an eight-speaker premium sound system, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio accessibility, an LCD console display, and steering wheel audio and display controls.
Three options packages are available. The Navigation Package includes an HDD Navigation System with voice command and integrated backup camera, as well as temporary subscriptions to traffic and weather information, destination assist, and automatic vehicle collision notification. A Navigation System/Mark Levinson Package adds a 14-speaker 300-watt surround sound audio system with six-CD changer and DVD-audio and DVD-video playback. Finally, an Ultra-Luxury Package updates the car with a panoramic glass roof, semi-aniline perforated leather-trimmed interior, leather and wood steering wheel, power rear sunshade, memory settings, graphite-finish alloy wheels, and heated and ventilated front seats.
Features unique to the Touring Special Edition include distinctive Stargazer Black and Starfire Pearl exterior finishes, 17-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, black interior with tan accents and contrast stitching, brown walnut trim, a leather and walnut steering wheel and shift knob, heated and ventilated front seats, and upgraded navigation system options.
Standard safety features on all models include a front passenger twin-chamber airbag, front and rear seat-mounted side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, child seat anchors, a collapsible steering column, side impact door beams, stability control, and traction control.
With a trunk capacity of 14.7 cubic feet, the ES350 offers one of the most spacious cargo areas in its class. Front seat passengers receive 37.4 inches of head room, 42.2 inches of leg room, and 56.3 inches of hip room. Rear passengers get 36.8 inches of head room, 35.9 inches of leg room, and 53.8 inches of hip room. Head room is slightly increased with the panoramic glass roof option.
The Lexus ES350 midsize sedan debuted as a 2007 model powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The fifth generation of the ES family featured a more streamlined body and lower grille than previous models. Standard equipment included leather and wood trim, a keyless entry and ignition system, a sunroof, and dual-zone climate control. Upgrades ranged from leather seating to Bluetooth technology.
Lexus gave the ES350 a minor redesign for the 2010 model, revising the front and rear ends, taillights, and wheels. Wood and chrome interior accents were increased and Bluetooth connectivity, driver memory settings, and leather seats became standard rather than optional. A Lexus Enform and Safety Connect system, which offered conveniences such as destination assist, automatic collision notification, and enhanced roadside assistance, became optional.
A special ES350 Touring Edition released in 2012 featured unique paint colors, perforated leather trim, 10-spoke wheels, and luxuries such as a navigation system and a leather and wood steering wheel.
2017 Lexus ES350
Luxury, Sedan
2016 Lexus ES350
2015 Lexus ES350
2014 Lexus ES350
2013 Lexus ES350
The 2013 Lexus ES350 has been completely redesigned for its launch.
2012 Lexus ES350
There are two changes for 2012: Nebula Gray Pearl replaces Smoky Granite Mica, and the discontinuation of Peridot Mica. Expect a completely redesigned ES for 2013.
2011 Lexus ES350
After a mild refresh added new styling cues for 2010, not too much changes for 2011. The 3.5-liter V-6 returns, now with six fewer horsepower (now 268) and six fewer pound-feet of torque (now 248). However, Lexus has changed the recommended fuel from premium to regular. The other changes: leather interior trim is now standard, and Deep Sea Mica replaces Black Sapphire Pearl.
2010 Lexus ES350
2009 Lexus ES350
The single front-drive 2009 Lexus ES350 model comes equipped with a 3.
2008 Lexus ES350
The 2008 Lexus ES 350 focuses on quality with a classy exterior, a gorgeous interior design, and plenty of power under the hood.
2007 Lexus ES350
The 2007 Lexus ES350 is an entry-level front-wheel drive (FWD) luxury sedan that seats five.


text:
I am currently BFing my 7-week old. I pump abt twice daily and freeze upto 5 oz of milk.
I checked for any lipase in 7-day old frozen milk and found that the milk tasted as good as fresh milk.
How long should i freeze and check before i can be sure of not having the "lipase problem"??


text:
- Date: 04 November 2013
- Author: WWF Travel
Paddling the Mediterranean's Dalmatian Coast
Presented by Natural Habitat Adventures
Tuesday, November 5th
3PM Eastern (12PM Pacific)
Register Now
Few places on earth rival the Dalmatian Coast for sea kayaking. With more than 1,200 islands and reefs from Croatia to Montenegro, it's perfect for a paddling idyll. Join Olaf Malver during this presentation on our Croatia kayaking adventure and learn about our unique itinerary, including our stay on a deluxe private sailing catamaran from which we launch our kayaks at a new destination each day, navigating intimate coves and grottoes and exploring ashore on foot.
Learn more about this trip here.
- Date: 01 July 2013
- Author: Maddi Higgins, WWF Travel
Europe was once teeming with wildlife, from the snowcapped tops of mountains to the warm beaches of the Mediterranean. The arrival of humans, agricultural production, exploitation of habitats and the introduction of invasive species have caused major losses in biodiversity. Thankfully, conservation organizations like WWF are working to protect the species and habitats of the continent. Here are the top five places in Europe where nature will astound you.
- Date: 17 April 2013
- Author: Maddi Higgins, WWF Travel
The opportunities to engage on a cultural level with local communities may seem less prominent as wildlife is often the focal point of the WWF trips. But it's often the local communities and guides who can spot the rare bird hidden in the thick of the forest canopy. It's the community that is bound tight to the history of their landscape; they know the stories that illustrate how nature has shaped their culture or perhaps how culture has shaped nature. It is almost impossible to understand and appreciate wildlife without also understanding the people and cultures that live under the same expansive sky.
Our photo slideshow highlights eight WWF trips that engage with the keepers of this intimate knowledge.
- Date: 01 March 2010
- Author: Elissa Leibowitz Poma, WWF Travel Manager
Beloved by birders and nature enthusiasts everywhere, puffins are one of the most widely recognized birds of the North. With a colorful bill that seems too perfectly painted to be real, puffins have a photogenic, cartoon-like appeal. Searching for them on an Arctic tour is a must.
10. Puffins only possess Technicolor bills—and their matching orange feet—during the spring breeding season. Just before winter sets in, they shed the colorful outer bill, leaving a noticeably smaller and duller-colored beak.
9. There are four species of puffins, three of which are slightly distinguishable from one another. The Atlantic and horned puffins look quite similar, with the exception of a blue-grey triangle at the base of the Atlantic puffin's beak. During the mating season, straw-like feathers protrude from the crown of the tufted puffin's head. The fourth species, the rhinoceros auklet, doesn't look like the other three – it's ashen colored, with a rhino-like protrusion during the breeding season. But it's still technically a puffin.
8. The puffins' genus name, Fratercula,comes from the Latin for "little brother." The name refers to the sea bird's black and white plumage, which was said to resemble the robes that monks once wore.
7. A puffin weighs about the same as a can of Coke.
6. Puffins lay just one egg per year—and usually with the same mate. Like some penguins, both parents take turns incubating the egg and caring for the chick.
5. Puffins may chatter up a storm at their breeding colonies, but they remain perfectly silent while at sea.
4. There are currently eight isles around the world named Puffin Island—so named because they all are or once were home to large colonies of puffins.
3. A puffin can fly as fast as 55 mph. Compared with other auks, which tend to stay just a few feet above the sea, puffins usually maintain a cruising altitude of around 30 feet.
2. Sixty percent of the world's puffins breed in Iceland.
1.Puffins are one of the few birds that have the ability to hold several small fish in their bills at a time. Their raspy tongues and spiny palates allow them to firm grasp 10 to 12 fish during one foraging trip. They thus can bring more food back to their young compared with other seabirds that tend to swallow and regurgitate meals for their chicks.


text:
Latest incident leaves Carnival ship with 20-foot gash
Add a 20-foot-long gash around the stern area to the list of things that need to be repaired on the Carnival Triumph.
The new damage to the beleaguered cruise ship, which broke free from its moorings on Wednesday at a repair yard in Mobile, Ala., is visible about halfway up the hull from the water.
Underneath the gashed area, two levels of railing are dangling and broken.
RELATED: Carnival defends safety record
MORE: Carnival cancels sailings to fix ships
Still, Carnival says the additional damage to the vessel, which has been undergoing repairs following a much-publicized fire in February, is modest.
"While assessment of damage to the ship is ongoing, initial indications suggest the damage is limited," the line says in a statement sent to USA TODAY.
The Carnival Triumph broke free from its moorings at the BAE Systems shipyard in Mobile Wednesday afternoon during a severe storm that was accompanied by wind gusts exceeding 70 miles per hour. The ship drifted in the Mobile River before hitting another vessel.
Carnival says no one was injured in the incident, and the Carnival Triumph is now tied up at the Mobile Cruise Terminal.
About 600 crew members were aboard the ship along with 200 contractors, and all have been accounted for through a roll call, the line says.
The violent weather Wednesday also blew a nearby guard shack at the BAE shipyard into the water. One worker was rescued and another remains missing.
RELATED: Carnival Triumph passengers describe misery
GALLERY: Rough days aboard the Carnival Triumph
A pier adjacent to the one where the Carnival Triumph had been tied up was damaged when the drifting ship bumped into it, BAE spokesman John Measell says.
The Carnival Triumph is in the midst of a 16-week-longer overhaul at the BAE Systems shipyard in the wake of the Feb. 10 fire, which occurred in an engine room. The fire knocked out the ship's main power and left it dead in the water. The vessel's emergency backup power system kicked in but was inadequate to provide passengers with basic services including working toilets, elevators, air conditioning and lighting in many areas. The ship eventually was towed to Mobile.
Carnival already has canceled 24 sailings of the Carnival Triumph, which is scheduled to emerge from the overhaul on June 3.


text:
Little Girl Has a Very Important Message About Her Bowels [VIDEO]
Setting: a backyard pool somewhere in suburbia. Crickets chirp, the air-conditioner hums, and a little boy standing by the pool chews on his goggles. After about 15 seconds of this tranquil scene, the camera finds a little girl, also poolside in a bathing suit. "I'm pooping," the little girl matter-of-factly declares.
Check out this YouTube masterpiece below:
[via The Daily What]


text:
2007-04-05 / Opinion
Report fans the flames of oppositon to windfarm
An independent study of the LIPA wind farm proposal has corroborated what many believed to be the case: the project is too costly, will provide too little additional energy and will burden Long Island ratepayers for too long. A recent Newsday article outlined the study, completed by the Long Island Economic & Social Policy Institute at Dowling College.
You must be an online subscriber to view this story.


text:
Your browser does not support iframes.
Elderly, low income saved thousands on tax prep
I want to thank the community for the support it provided to the AARP Taxaide effort.
We were able to assist over 140 clients prepare their tax returns or answer their tax questions. This adds up to over $28,000 in savings for these elderly and mid to low income individuals whose budgets would be greatly affected by paying a paid preparer.
Grant Countians should use free disposal
On Nov. 6, 2010, the GCHS Boys and Girls Soccer Teams and the GCMS soccer teams took part in a roadside litter pickup sponsored by the Grant County Solid Waste Board. We cleaned up over 30 miles of road including, Grassy Run Road and Lusby Mill Road.
Promotion of Christianity begins with Christians
Contrary to the opinions of some respondents, who label me according to their political persuasion, I personally prefer "Under God," in the Pledge of Allegiance, and "In God we trust," on our money. I selected the "In God We Trust" license plate for my car.
Skinner appreciates volunteers
Kennedy, Crupper extend belated welcome
It was Nov. 15, 1906, when Dry Ridge hosted the birth of the Grant County News. While yet in its infancy, "The News" merged with the Williamstown Courier. The Courier did not survive, but the News made the most of its new surroundings and continued to grow and flourish in Williamstown for 100 years.
Work is less fun, fun is more work
How many times have we exclaimed, "Had I know then, what I know now...". If you, like me, are in that group of people who have been sufficiently blessed to have survived declining health and other time imposed limitations, if work is a lot less fun, and fun is a lot more work, we are known as senior citizens. We can dwell in regret for what might have been, or accept the fact that it is what it is and focus on the benefits of our longevity.
Kennedy opinion brings response
I read with interest the letter from Ron Kennedy. There's no doubt that he is a liberal who is willing to promote and accept a socialist/Marxist style of government. This is just sad—sad—sad.
Gary R. Adkins
Church, state leads to false doctrine
Birkholtz sees big picture
America should be government of laws
Copyright © 2019
The Grant County News is your source for local news, sports, events, and information in Dry Ridge, KY and the surrounding area.


text:
Council Bluffs Woman Sentenced On Methamphetamine Charges
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – On March 15, 2013, Lisa Marie Barrett, age 46, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Council Bluffs, on the charge of distribution of 5 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Klinefeldt. Senior U.S. District Court Judge Robert W. Pratt sentenced Barrett to 60 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release following her imprisonment. The Judge also ordered Barrett to forfeit $1,061 and various drug-related paraphernalia seized at the time of Barrett's arrest on these charges. Barrett remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending designation of the Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to serve her federal sentence.
Barrett was sentenced upon her plea of guilty to distribution of 6.8 grams of 95% pure methamphetamine. The charge arose from a SouthWest Iowa Narcotics Task Force investigation in which Barrett made two sales of methamphetamine to an undercover operative.
This case was part of a larger investigation conducted by the SouthWest Iowa Narcotics Task Force, in which David Fisher was sentenced to 117 months imprisonment, plus 5 years supervised release; Nicholas Franks was sentenced to 133 months imprisonment, plus 5 years supervised release; and Steven Etherington was sentenced to 150 months imprisonment, plus 5 years supervised release. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Iowa.


text:
The world's most advanced and versatile GPUs.
Additional hardware (e.g. Blu-ray drive, HD or 10-bit monitor, TV tuner) and/or software (e.g. multimedia applications) are required for the full enablement of some features. Not all features may be supported on all components or systems - check with your component or system manufacturer for specific model capabilities and supported technologies.
OpenCL and the OpenCL logo are trademarks of Apple Inc. used by permission by Khronos.


text:
Attendee Registration
Click Here To Register Online
Attendee: Information & Prices
Reasons You Should Register Online
Attendee FAQs
Attendee Registration: Frequently Asked Questions
Attendee Registration: On-Site FAQ
Volunteer Information
Volunteer Application
Open Staff Positions At San Japan
Press Application
Artist Alley
Artist Alley Information & FAQ
Artist Alley Rules & Regulations
Dealers & Sponsors
Dealer / Vendor Information
Sponsorship Information
Convention, Fan and Charity Tables – Info & Sign-Up
Indie Gaming – Info & Sign-Up
Industry Badge Purchase
Unique Events
Masquerade Dance – Info & Rules
San Japan Sweetness Maid Cafe
Strangestar Idol – Rules & Info
21+ Pub Run
More Events
Swap Meet
San Japan Charity Auction
ItaPara – Car Show
Late Night Electronic Dances
21+ Pub Run
Event Information
Events At San Japan
Autograph Policy
Event Tickets – Info & Policy
Event/Panelist FAQ
San Japan XI / 2018 Schedule
Video Room Schedule
Get The App!
Event Submissions
Event/Panel Submissions
Event/Panelist FAQ
Fandom Meeting – Info/Submissions
Electronic Gaming Info
Tabletop Gaming
Japanese Arcade
Indie Gaming – Info & Sign-Up
Announced Guests
Previous Guests
Info & Rules
San Japan Info & Rules
San Japan Convention Rules
San Japan Cosplay & Props Rules
Frequently Asked Questions
Convention Times & Map/Layouts
SJ Cares Program
San Japan Mobile App
Area Location
Places To Eat
Rivercenter Mall Rules
Cosplay Location Shots
Hotel Info
Convention Hotel Location & Information
San Antonio Grand Hyatt – Reserve Your Room
Marriott Riverwalk/Rivercenter – Reserve Your Room
Travel Info
Megabus: Minutes From SJ
Directions & Parking Info
Cosplay & Contests
San Japan Cosplay Museum
Cosplay Show – Rules & Info
San Japan Cosplay Show Entry Form
Hall Cosplay Contest – Info & Rules
Unofficial Photoshoot / Gatherings – Form + Submissions
Art Contest
San Japan Art Contest – Info & Rules
Art Contest – Submission Page
Art Contest Galleries
AMV Contest
San Japan / AMV League Contest Info
Media & Contact
Press & Media Coverage
San Japan Social Media
San Japan Facebook Page
San Japan Official Facebook Group / Forum
San Japan Official Cosplay Facebook Group
San Japan Official Tumblr
San Japan Twitter
San Japan Instagram
About Us And Contact
Contact Us & Feedback
About Us
What Is San Japan?
Purchase Badges
San Japan XII (2019)
Policy on 18+ Panels
Search The Website
Policy on 18+ Panels
To answer the questions we get in about 18+ panels here will be the policies on it.
Everyone entering an 18+ panel must have a government-issued ID with their photo on it. This includes Drivers License, Miltary ID, Passport or Texas State ID. An expired ID is okay as long as it as your current birthday and your photo is on it.
We do not accept
: Social Security Cards, School IDs or temporary Drivers License papers. No exceptions.
Everyone enter must be at least 18 years old. No children allowed in at all even if under 1 year old.
We do not allow Guardians or Parents over 18 to bring in their child/sibling under 18 years old at all for any reason whatsoever. No Exceptions.
You must be at least 18 years old at the start of the day in order to enter a panel.
If you can't or will not show ID then you're not allowed in at all even if you look 60.
Buy Your Convention Badges
Buy Them Now


text:
Huskers Fall to No. 16 Bruins
Lincoln - In a tale of two halves, No. 23 Nebraska bolted to a 21-3 lead, but No. 16 UCLA closed with 38 unanswered points in the final two-and-half quarters to leave Memorial Stadium with a 41-21 victory over the Huskers.
Playing in front of the NCAA-record 328th consecutive sellout and the largest crowd (91,471) in Memorial Stadium history, the Huskers had their 14-game home non-conference winning streak snapped, along with their streak of 10-straight home wins.
For the second straight week, Husker senior corner Stanley Jean-Baptiste played a key role in getting Nebraska on the board first. On UCLA's second possession, Jean-Baptiste picked off a Brett Hundley pass and returned it 34 yards to the UCLA 28. It marked the third straight game to open the season that Jean-Baptiste recorded an interception.
Taylor Martinez and the Husker offense turned the pick into points four plays later, when senior wide receiver Quincy Enunwa hauled in an 11-yard touchdown catch. It was Enunwa's fourth touchdown grab of the season and gave NU a 7-0 lead with 9:45 left in the first quarter.
Following a 44-yard field goal by UCLA's Ka'imi Fairbairn, Martinez and the Huskers answered with Nebraska's longest drive of the young season. Enunwa capped a balanced march with an 18-yard connection with fellow Californian Martinez. Enunwa put an exclamation point on his quick slant by plowing over a pair of Bruin defenders and plunging into the middle of the end zone to give Nebraska a 14-3 lead with 31 seconds left in the opening quarter. Enunwa finished with three catches for 39 yards.
In the second quarter, the Blackshirts forced UCLA into its third punting situation of the game after the Bruins played without punting in their opening game win over Nevada. But Sean Covington did not get the punt off, mishandling the snap and then trying to run for the first down. Randy Gregory took down Covington to set the NU offense up with great field position at the UCLA 26.
The Huskers capitalized two plays later, as Martinez tossed his third touchdown pass of the game, a 22-yard strike to Kenny Bell to give Nebraska 21-3 lead with 7:12 left in the first half. Bell led the NU receivers on the day with six catches for 68 yards.
UCLA was in position to cut into the Husker lead but Fairbairn missed a 46-yard field goal wide right. The field goal was initially called good, despite sailing outside the upright about three-quarters of the way up the post.
The Bruins' high-powered offense that put up 58 points in their opener, finally found the end zone against the Blackshirts with 57 seconds left in the first half to trim the NU margin to 21-10. UCLA tried gain more momentum before heading to the locker room, forcing a three-and-out and moving into position for a long field goal attempt. But Fairbairn's 55-yard attempt to end the half was short.
The Huskers went to halftime with a 21-10 edge, but the second half belonged to Hundley and the Bruins. The sophomore quarterback finished 16-of-24 for 294 yards and three second-half touchdown passes. He also ran 19 times for 61 yards.
James Jordan led the UCLA ground game with 105 yards and a touchdown on 22 carries, while Paul Perkins added the other Bruin touchdown to go along with his five carries for 22 yards.
Overall, UCLA amassed 504 total yards, including 210 on the ground and 294 through the air. The Bruins rolled up 157 rushing yards in the second half.
While playing from behind the entire first half, UCLA started fast on both sides of the ball in the second half. The Bruin defense opened with a stop of the Huskers, before marching 89 yards in 10 plays capped by a James three-yard touchdown run to cut NU's lead to 21-17 with 8:31 left in the third.
Little more than two minutes later, UCLA grabbed its first lead on a 28-yard connection between Hundley and Shaquell Evans to put the Bruins up 24-21 with 6:02 left. Evans finished with three receptions for a team-best 97 yards on the day.
The Husker offense was unable to sustain a drive and the Bruins expanded their lead to 31-21 on Hundley's 12-yard touchdown pass to Phillip Ruhl with 3:39 left in the quarter.
But the Bruins weren't done, as Nate Iese hauled in Hundley's third touchdown pass of the quarter with 0:26 left to send the Bruins to the final quarter leading 38-21. The 28 points allowed by the Huskers in the third quarter were the most in a single quarter at Memorial Stadium in history.
With the wind at their backs in the fourth quarter, the Huskers quickly marched into the red zone on their opening drive. But a fumble by Ameer Abdullah one play after a fourth-down conversion by the Huskers, ended the threat.
Nebraska was unable to put together a serious threat the rest of the way, while the Bruins tacked on a 24-yard Fairbairn field goal with 1:53 left to close the scoring.
Nebraska managed 326 total yards for the game, but just 130 in the second half, including just 43 yards on the ground after halftime. Martinez completed 21-of-35 passes for 203 yards and three touchdowns in the game. Abdullah led the NU ground game with 98 yards on 23 carries, while adding three receptions for 50 yards. But Martinez was thrown for minus-13 yards rushing on 10 attempts. No other Husker back managed 20 yards.
Nebraska continues its five-game season-opening home stand next Saturday when the Huskers play host to South Dakota State. Kickoff between NU and the Jackrabbits is set for 2:30 p.m. with a live national telecast on BTN.
Scoring Summary
Final: #16 UCLA 41, #23 Nebraska 21
Saturday, Sept. 14, 2013
Memorial Stadium (Lincoln, Neb.)
First Quarter (NEB, 14-3)
NEB - 9:45 - Quincy Enunwa 11 pass from Taylor Martinez (Pat Smith kick), 4 plays, 28 yards, 1:30 - NEB 7-0
UCLA - 7:13 - Ka'imi Fairbairn 44 FG, 8 plays, 49 yards, 2:32, NEB 7-3
NEB - 0:31 - Enunwa 14 pass from Martinez (Smith kick), 17 plays, 92 yards, 6:34, NEB 14
Second Quarter (NEB, 21-10)
NEB - 7:12 - Kenny Bell 22 pass from Martinez (Smith kick) - 2 plays, 26 yards, 0:38, NEB 21-3
UCLA - 0:57 - Paul Perkins 10 run (Fairbairn kick) - 6 plays, 59 yards, 1:27, NEB 21-10
Third Quarter (UCLA, 38-21)
UCLA - 8:31 - Jordan James 3 run (Fairbairn kick) - 10 plays, 89 yards, 3:31, NEB 21-17
UCLA - 6:02 - Shaquell Evans 28 pass from Brett Hundley (Fairbairn kick) - 4 plays, 57 yards, 1:01, UCLA 24-21
UCLA - 3:39 - Phillip Ruhl 12 pass from Hundley (Fairbairn kick) - 5 plays, 53 yards, 1:49, UCLA 31-21
UCLA - 0:26 - Nate Iese 3 pass from Hundley (Fairbairn kick) - 3 plays, 44 yards, 0:45, UCLA 38-21
Fourth Quarter (UCLA, 41-21)
UCLA - 1:53 - Fairbairn 24 field goal - 11 plays, 64 yards, 6:33, UCLA 41-21
Final: #16 UCLA 41, #23 Nebraska 21
Attendance: 91,471
Time of Game: 3:21
Game Start: 11:07 a.m. (central)


text:
Watch the hawks soar with Portola Valley potential
There are many ways for a house to show Burbed win. One is for it to be completely overpriced, and the other is for it to be an utter crapbox. Which kind do you like better? Can't decide? Today's house is BOTH!
207 WESTRIDGE Dr
Portola Valley, CA 94028
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,770 Sq. Ft.
$1,082 / Sq. Ft.
Built: 1952
Lot Size: 3.05 Acres
On Redfin: 5 days
Status: Active
Property Type: Detached Single Family
Stories: 2
Community: Central Portola Valley
Style: Contemporary
View: Green Belt, Mountains, Canyon
County: San Mateo
Over 3 acres with spectacular southern exposure, views toward Monte Bello Ridge. Watch the hawks soar! Architect designed with Frank Lloyd Wright's "Falling Water" in mind, this mid-century contemporary is ready for extensive remodel or build new. Owned by one family since 1953. Wonderful privacy. Two guest cottages. Much deferred maintenance; 3-stall barn w/ hayloft in disrepair. Potential!
Designed with "Falling Water" in mind? We guess we could say our mid-century modern shack was designed with Monticello in mind… and yet it was a suburban tract house in fact. Only ours has fewer paper cranes.
This house also reminds us of the one yesterday: way more pictures outside than in, and no bedrooms snapped at all. Wonder why not? Maybe by deferred maintenance they really mean the owners haven't gotten out of bed since 1953.


text:
brwi wrote:bhaw wrote:pfim wrote:Meh. Think Nash is fairly overrated by a lot of people, and Columbus probably got what they could. I mean, good player, not sure he's as good as his cap hit. Sucks for their PR, but they received a few decent pieces in return.
I think you could argue their PR would not be good if they kept Nash, as you would have a lot of fan saying "Why don't we trade this piece of trash who doesn't even want to play here?"
Pretty true. Nash showed what a low quality person he is when he got busted for being a complete liar and CBJ didn't have a lot of leverage once the fans turned on him(for good reason). The whole "I can't believe they are discussing trading ME!" after he had requested a trade ranks as pretty much a fan-killer.
Columbus got what they could and also unloaded a bad contract and a player who didn't want to be there to go along with the fact the fans/management didn't want him there either. Not a great haul but not bad either.
The whole Nash not wanting to play in Columbus is also why I'm not bought into him being a complete slug. If he WANTS to play in New York and has more motivation, he could be a bigger threat than people are making him out to be. That will remain to be seen, so I don't want a history lesson on his stats or who psychoanalyzed him via television in the Olympics. When you don't want to be there, you aren't going to put in your best effort day in and day out. He's just as likely to be a slug as he is to be a significantly better player than we have seen the last few years.


text:
The Lancet?s Series on Midwifery, which contains 4 papers, was launched Monday, June 23, 2014 at a special event held at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
According to The Lancet?s press release, ?Midwifery has a crucial part to play in saving the lives of millions of women and children who die during and around the time of pregnancy. The Series, produced by an international group of academics, clinicians, professional midwives, policymakers and advocates for women and children, is the most critical, wide-reaching examination of midwifery ever conducted. It shows the scale of the positive impact that can be achieved when effective, high-quality midwifery is available to all women and their babies.?
To read the full press release, click here.
To read the executive summary, the comments and the 4 papers in the Series, click here.
To read a 2-page overview of the Series and what it means for US midwives, click here.


text:
Get 15% OFF Your Next Order
The best deals come to your inbox. Sign up for GEMPLER'S emails to get exclusive offers and first dibs on hot new products!
Steel tubing and solid steel head for maximum driving force
This 2"-Dia. Steel Post Pounder is constructed from a 3/16" thick schedule 40 steel tubing and features a solid steel head for maximum driving force. The side handles are 19"L and tapered outward and back for a more comfortable grip and to keep your hands safely out of the way if driving posts close to fence lines. Drives posts up to 2"-dia. Driver is 27"L. 17 lb.
See all fencing supplies and accessories
2018 Reference Guide: Page 425


text:
Why I Ride: David Shaul
I moved to New York City to work in the Broadway theatre scene in the early '80s in the middle of the AIDS crisis. Within a matter of a few years, in my mid 20's, I started to deal with the horrific sickness and death of friends and colleagues, many of whom were my age. Young, gay men like myself were dropping as if we were at war. It was a surreal time when going to memorial services and visiting hospital beds was common practice. Losing close friends in the prime of their and your life, sometimes holding their hand as they took their last breath, is not something I wish on anyone. Today, I feel somewhat honored to have been there for the call. We did what we had to do in order to help those less fortunate pass with dignity. In those days a diagnosis was tantamount to a death sentence, but look how far we've come today.
I moved to L.A. in 1998 and had always known about the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center but had never become involved. Then last year I decided to ride in the AIDS/LifeCycle, and my commitment to fighting this disease and those affected was renewed. What started as a personal challenge and an "I'm 50 but I'll show them" binge quickly turned into a passion. The community involved in AIDS/LifeCycle is some of the finest, most loving and generous of spirit people I've ever met. From my first training ride I knew I belonged here!
What I didn't know when I signed up to ride was that the work done by the organizations who benefit from our fundraising—the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center and the San Francisco AIDS Foundation—is vitally important and saves lives every day. I was blown away when I took my first tour of the LAGLC, heard the statistics and saw the life saving work they do. I had no idea of the magnitude and scope of their work. I am proud and honored to help in their efforts to treat and end this disease.
I ride for many many reasons. I ride for the past—for loved ones gone. I ride for the present—for those in need today. I ride for the future—for a time when young people will only read about AIDS in the history books. And I ride because it was one of the greatest weeks of my life!
In short, I ride not only because I want to. I ride because I have to! Here's to a world without AIDS!
For more info on AIDS/LifeCycle, visit http://www.aidslifecycle.org, or register to ride with us next June by clicking here and enter discount code: INSTINCT. If you'd like to support David in his ALC efforts, visit his page here.


text:
Items where Author / Artist / Editor is "Christian, Leonie"
|See full list of headings
Group by: Item Type | No Grouping
Jump to: Article
Number of items: 1.
Baluch, Bahman and Martin, G. Neil and Christian, Leonie and Corulla, William J (1996) Psychology and non-psychology students' estimation of their desirable and undesirable personality traits. Personality and Individual Differences., 21 (4). pp. 617-620. ISSN 0191-8869


text:
House Approves Bipartisan Amendment 153 to Report on Modernizing Military Rules Regarding HIV!
June 14, 2013
In less than 12 hours, hundreds of people contacted their Members of Congress to urge them to support Amendment 153 proposed by Representatives Barbara Lee (D-CA) and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL). Thanks to your advocacy work, the amendment passed and will be added to the National Defense Authorization Act!
This amendment is a key step towards ensuring an end to HIV criminalization in the military. This amendment requires a report to ensure that the code, policies and regulations in the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) are based on the most medically up-to-date, accurate, science-based understanding of the routes, risks and consequences of HIV transmission, including an accurate understanding of ramifications on public health. Click here for a press release from Rep. Lee's office on the passage of the amendment.
Thank you for contacting your Member of Congress! Members always want to hear from their constituents -- your voice matters! If you haven't already, click here to send an email to your Republican Member of Congress urging them to support the REPEAL HIV Discrimination Act!
This alert is in collaboration with the Positive Justice Project, of which AIDS United is a member.
This article was provided by AIDS United. Visit AIDS United's website to find out more about their activities and publications.
Add Your Comment:
(Please note: Your name and comment will be public, and may even show up in
Internet search results. Be careful when providing personal information! Before
adding your comment, please read TheBody.com's Comment Policy.)


text:
The dollar headed for its biggest weekly decline in six weeks as weaker-than-forecast economic data prompted investors to pare bets of an aggressive reduction in monetary stimulus at the Federal Reserve's policy meeting next week.
The U.S. currency weakened against the yen (FOREX:USDJPY) today after a report showed retail sales rose less than projected last month, following a report on August payroll growth last week that also trailed forecasts. The U.S. central bank may begin to taper the $85 billion-per-month bond purchases it uses to lower borrowing costs at its meeting Sept. 17-18. The British pound touched its highest level in more than seven months as July construction output rose at its fastest pace in three months.
"I would say the general consensus is still very much that they'll taper," said Tom Fitzpatrick, chief technical analyst at Citigroup Inc., by phone from New York. "But we've seen just enough to know that the tapering they will do will be in the low end of expectations."
The Bloomberg U.S. dollar index has fallen 0.7% in the past week, the biggest weekly decline since the week ending Aug. 9. The index was little changed today at 1,023.69 at 3:02 p.m. in New York.
Market Prices
The U.S. currency fell 0.3% today to 99.26 yen, after rising as much as 0.4%. The dollar was little changed at $1.3304 per euro, after falling as much as 0.2%. The yen gained 0.3% to 132.05 per euro.
The greenback has appreciated 3.9% this year, the best performer after the euro of 10 developed-nation currencies tracked by Bloomberg Correlation-Weighted Indexes. The euro appreciated 4.8% and the yen slumped 10.5%.
"The weaker-than-expected report may have increased the possibility that the Fed either reduces the total amount or potentially delays the time it expects to begin reducing asset purchases," Brian Daingerfield, a Stamford, Connecticut-based currency strategist at Royal Bank of Scotland Group Plc's RBS Securities unit, said by phone. "They're tempering their views on tapering, you might say."
The U.K. currency advanced versus all of its 16 major peers before the Bank of England releases the minutes of its September meeting next week amid speculation policy makers may have to raise interest rates sooner than they have projected. Data earlier this week showed the unemployment rate unexpectedly fell.
The pound gained 0.5% to $1.5876 after rising to the highest level since Feb. 1.
Copyright 2014 Bloomberg. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.


text:
Breathe new life into your routine and revive your results in the great outdoors
Total-Body Alfresco Workout
1 of 7All photos
Don't limit your outdoor workouts to cardio only! You can fit in a fun and effective strength routine while you soak up some sun using only a park bench. Try this total-body circuit as an intermission for outdoor cardio, or do it as a standalone strength session anytime your workout needs a breath of fresh air!
How it works: Up to four days a week, do 1 set of each exercise back to back, with little to no rest in between moves. Do the full circuit 2 to 3 times total.
You'll need: A sturdy bench or platform.
RELATED: 5 Moves for Toned Triceps
Step Master
2 of 7All photos
Reps: 15 per side
Not only does this side step-up squat work your entire lower half, it engages your core and pumps up your heart rate to increase overall calorie burn too!
How to do it: Begin in a squat position with left foot on bench, hands together, elbows bent in front of chest. Step up onto bench, pushing off right foot and tapping it lightly next to left (staying low in a squat position), driving elbows back by sides. Return to start. That's one rep. Do 15 reps, and then switch sides and repeat.
Driving Incline Pushup
3 of 7All photos
Reps: 10 per leg
Perfect pushups are more manageable on an incline, and adding a knee-drive forces your abs to engage even more.
How to do it: Begin in pushup position with hands on bench, left leg lifted low, toes pointed. Lower into pushup, and as arms extend, bend left knee into chest, bracing abs in tighter. Return to start. Do 10 reps, and then repeat on opposite side.
4 of 7All photos
Reps: 20 (alternating)
Blast calories, boost your buns, and tone your thighs with this plyometrics exercise.
How to do it: Stand facing bench, arms by sides. Quickly step right foot onto bench, driving left arm forward, and jump straight up. Land on right leg (on bench) and immediately step back down to start. Do 20 reps, alternating legs each time.
Dip and Kick
5 of 7All photos
Reps: 10 per leg
Target your triceps, abs, and thighs with this triple-duty toner.
How to do it: Sit with both hands on edge of bench, knees bent, feet flat on the ground. Scoot forward until your hips are just off the bench. Bend elbows to about 90 degrees and bend right knee up into chest, foot flexed. As arms straighten, extend right leg out in front of hip. Do 10 reps, and then repeat on opposite side.
Elevated Lunge and Twist
6 of 7All photos
Reps: 15 per side
Elevating your back leg and adding a crossing crunch (hello, balance challenge!) takes this lunge to a whole new core-activating level.
How to do it: Begin in a lunge stance with back foot resting on top of bench, hands behind head. Lower into lunge and slowly bring opposite elbow across to knee. Return to start. Do 15 reps, and then repeat on opposite side.
Too much? Start with just the elevated lunge and add in the crossing crunch when you feel ready.
Power Burpees
7 of 7All photos
Reps: As many as possible with good form
This amped-up burpee is a serious cardio and coordination challenge. But safety first—always make sure you use great form with every rep and modify whenever necessary to avoid injury.
How to do it: Stand facing bench in a squat position. Quickly jump feet out behind body as hands land on top of bench, lowering into a pushup. Jump back into starting squat position and immediately jump up onto bench, swinging arms to help, landing in a squat. Jump back down to start position. Do as many reps in a row as you can safely handle.
Too tough? Take out the squat jump up and just keep it on the ground. To make it more challenging, perform your pushups on the ground (full burpee style).


text:
Hosting.co.uk Becomes First and Only MEGA Reseller in the UK
Hosting.co.uk looks to become one-stop shop for developers, announcing reseller agreement with new MEGA service
Jan 19, 2013, 09:27 ET
LUXEMBOURG, Jan. 19, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The recently launched MEGA cloud storage service offers significant enhancements over previous service providers, both for businesses and individual users. Recognizing this value, Hosting.co.uk inked a deal to become an authorized reseller of MEGA service. Already an established force in the web hosting sector, Hosting.co.uk sees this arrangement as a golden opportunity to add another layer of value to its already superior service.
The developers behind MEGA analyzed the weaknesses among the current leaders in cloud storage. The file system was perhaps the most glaring shortcoming in many cloud storage technologies. In general, users must create and maintain files within the system. Sharing and collaboration is possible, but there needless hurdles to be overcome. In many cases, once-eager users drop out of the cloud, as they discover not everything is as simple as advertised. MEGA, on the other hand, embraces sharing as one of the essential principles of its service. Cross-account folder sharing is as simple as a mouse click. Even individual users can expect an improved experience -- MEGA can function seamlessly as a drive letter or file system mount.
Data security is a perennial concern for devotees of the cloud. Perceived vulnerability has likewise been an argument against embracing cloud storage wholeheartedly. Traditionally, server-side 128-bit encryption has been the sole defense against hacking and exploitation. MEGA features a browser-based encryption tool to which only users have access. This is a noteworthy step up from the security status quo. It's worth noting also that more user control nearly always equates to a better user experience.
MEGA does not require users to download any proprietary software. Instead, users can access their stored data from any system, anywhere, at any time. Data transfer is managed entirely on the server side. A "resume" function allows users to pause and restart transfers as necessary. Thanks to its substantial network of data centers, syncing of small or medium files is all but instantaneous.
"MEGA represents the next leap forward in secure cloud storage," said Hosting.co.uk's Frederick Schiwek. "For the cost of a cab ride, users gain access to up to 500GB of secure storage space. Speed is a big selling point, too: MEGA operates enough worldwide data centers to ensure rapid file transfers. Best of all, users have control over the encryption and decryption of their own data. We know that our customers will gravitate towards a service that puts them in charge."
Although based in the United Kingdom, Hosting.co.uk is pleased to offer its services to users across the globe. The company's high-capacity data network and top-shelf web hosting technology make geography virtually irrelevant. Versatile and responsive, the company caters to a myriad of specialized hosting needs, including hosting for WordPress, Magento and Drupal, as well as the content management system Joomla!. Naturally, Hosting.co.uk guarantees near 100% uptime, round the clock technical support and a competitive pricing structure. When one combines the exceptional hosting packages offered by Hosting.co.uk with the cutting edge cloud storage offered by MEGA, it's a sweet deal for anyone looking for an advantage in web development.
Even though it's just hatched, the MEGA team has its sights firmly set on the future. The company behind MEGA is currently courting new investment partners, as well as looking for more opportunities to collaborate with existing service providers.
About Hosting.co.uk
Hosting.co.uk combines industry expertise with unparalleled customer service and technical support. With a data network based in the United Kingdom, the company offers its remarkably affordable service throughout Europe, North America and the World. The recently launched affiliate program signifies that the company is looking toward a bright future.
Frederick Schiwek
International Services Company S. A.
12 Route de Longwy
L-8080, Bertrange
Phone: +352 20212330-0
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
This press release was issued through eReleases® Press Release Distribution. For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com.
SOURCE Hosting.co.uk


text:
| Northwest Africa (NWA) 8008
The NWA 8008 meteorite has been classified as a L4 meteorite and has many sharply defined chondrules. NWA 8008 is a meteorite that will provide plenty of visual enjoyment under a microscope or hand lens. Much of the metal in NWA 8008 is gone and it has received a W5 weathering grade.
Copyright © 1996–2019 The Meteorite Exchange, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
The Meteorite Exchange Inc., 1121 West Valley Blvd, Ste. I #165, Tehachapi CA 93561
Users online: 196 anonymous customer(s)