text:
First of all, let me begin with an awesome street art initiative from Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Urban Repair Squad
As the article mentions, Sao Paulo is known for its congested streets which pose a dangerous challenge for pedestrians and cyclists alike. During Brazil's World Cup games, a group of street artists took to the city's empty streets to paint bike lanes and pedestrian crosswalks in hazardous areas, a project which reminds me a lot of Montreal's very own Roadsworth.
There's some talk about initiating traffic-calming initiatives and pedestrian-friendly urban improvements in Montreal's St. Henri Borough to manage dangerous and confusing intersections. (Ongoing construction has, in some places, created a maze of concrete barriers through which pedestrians must weave in order to cross streets). I've suggested that the local borough council, if and when it begins a public awareness campaign to raise support for intersection overhauls, get a street artist like Roadsworth (or myself) to paint new pedestrian crossings in certain intersections. I'm thinking of something along the lines of a meandering clown-shoed path to best illustrate the danger that construction barriers pose to pedestrians crossing far-too-wide streets in which they're often forced to stop halfway. Or a stencil of the Montreal Pedestrian Charter, which was adopted to prevent situations like these.
And now on to gripe-town. The Harper government continues to stand pat on its decision to eliminate the mandatory census long-form, a decision which has been condemned across the board. To this date, only a handful of groups have come forward to support Harper's decision. These include the Fraser Institute, a right-wing, pro-'free market' think-tank, as well as the National Citizens' Coalition, site of Stephen Harper's old job, and the euphemistically-named Canadian Taxpayers' Federation.
Stephen Harper's contempt for others and their points of view has been glaring and at times, even chilling. Watching Industry Minister Tony Clement being apparently forced to publicly defend the scrapping of the census long form, seemingly as punishment for having criticized Harper's decision to do so in the beginning, smacks of a tragic comedy; one part misery and two parts farce.
As a future urban planner I will be one of the many people who will be making important use of census data that, in Canada, currently has an international reputation for accuracy, proper documentation and strict privacy controls. What it all boils down to is this:
As Noam Chomsky has said, media discourse no longer revolves around a debate or interaction of two opinions. What has replaced it is instead a strategy by which a message is repeated over and over until it enters the public consciousness and becomes public opinion. Facts are replaced by buzzwords. And it works. For example, take the recent survey which found that close to 20 per cent of Americans believe that President Obama is a Muslim.
Harper's people have been trying to push a conservative Christian agenda on Canadians for a number of years, an agenda which requires more than a complete ignorance of the facts. For example, it's not enough for them to say that Insite does not work, in spite of the massive support it has received at a city, provincial and even international level. It's not enough to call for a recriminalization of marijuana and mandatory minimum sentencing for possession charges in spite of a tremendous amount of evidence contradicting the very same fear-mongering pitches which Harper & Co. toss out.
No, in order to successfully pull something like this off you have to sway public opinion in your favor first. And that involves both flooding the airwaves with your own message and destroying the foundations of your opponents' arguments. As long as census data remains reliable you're bound to see situations where Conservative ministers get caught with their pants down, as was the case when Treasury Board President Stockwell Day tried to claim that the Canadian crime rate is rising rather than falling in order to justify a planned $6 billion dollar expenditure on new prisons.
You can't call your opponents "ivory-tower intellectuals" and "thug-huggers" and get away with it very well if they can meticulously tear your arguments apart with cold, hard data. You're just stuck in place babbling on about Imaginary Crimes. These types are the worst kind of policy-makers. Like 'bio-ethicist' Margaret Somerville, these people follow a scientific approach insofar as it suits their ideological goals. They prepare an ideological argument first, and then scour for figures that supposedly back it up.


text:
Marble & Wood Cheese Board
Style No. 27066638
Designed especially for terrain from sturdy marble and natural mango wood, the polished lines of this cheese tray make a timeless addition to party décor.
- A terrain exclusive
- Mango wood, marble
- Wipe clean with damp cloth
- Food safe
- Imported
Square: 1"H, 15"W, 15"L
Rectangle: 1"H, 8"W, 16.5"L

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Two Lakers and two Clippers were selected Thursday as staters for the Western Conference All-Star team.
Kobe Bryant received 1.59 million votes, the most of any player in the fan balloting, as the Laker star was chosen to his 15th NBA All-Star team. His Lakers teammate Dwight Howard was also selected as a starter for the West squad. This is Howard's seventh All-Star selection.
Clippers Chris Paul (sixth All-Star team) and Blake Griffin (third All-Star selection) will also start for the West. Oklahoma City Thunder star Kevin Durant will complete the starting five for the West.
This year the "center" position was dropped from All-Star ballots. Instead, fans voted for two backcourt and three frontcourt players.
The starters for the Eastern Conference All-Stars are: Dwyane Wade (Miami) and Rajon Rondo (Boston) in the backcourt, and LeBron James (Miami), Carmelo Anthony (New York) and Kevin Garnett (Boston) in the frontcourt.
Reserves for the All-Star teams will be selected by NBA head coaches.
The All-Star game will be played Feb. 17 in Houston.
Clippers are seen as NBA title contenders
Knee injury puts Chris Paul on the bench


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Shades of the 2009 Mets are already apparent here this season. Though that team was more talented on paper, it was ravaged by the injury bug which gave Jerry Manuel very little to work with on a day-to-day basis.
Well, it seems that injuries already have played a role this season.
Last year's breakout player, Angel Pagan, is on the disabled list, though he will hopefully return shortly.
The Mets were forced to put their top reliever, Rule 5 draftee Pedro Beato, on the disabled list due to elbow tendinitis. That's a tough blow for Beato, who was pitching some of the best baseball of his life.
Of course, the Mets are dealing with the absence of ace Johan Santana. Though there were good reports about his progress this week, he still has a long road ahead.
Injuries are part of the game, but the Mets seem to be cursed.
In 2006, one of the NL's best setup relievers, Duaner Sanchez, was injured in a car accident that caused him to miss the remainder of the season. Would Sanchez have made the same pitch that Aaron Heilman made on the home run to Yadier Molina in the NLCS? We'll never really know, but it would have been nice to at least put our best foot forward.
There have been few occasions over the last two seasons that the team has played completely at full strength. In a division including the Phillies, Braves and Marlins, a healthy team is the only way the Mets can compete.
The lineup is one thing, but just think if Santana was healthy.
He'd be the ace, while Mike Pelfrey would have less pressure on him as the No. 2. That would also push back R.A. Dickey and Jon Niese, with Chris Young and Chris Capuano providing rotation depth.
Pelfrey would still have to go out and compete even if Santana was there, but he probably would have benefited from Santana's calming presence.
Once Pagan comes back, the team will have the makings of a contender, assuming everyone performs to their potential. The Mets have dug themselves a hole early, but nothing that can't be overcome.
The days of seeing both Willie Harris and Scott Hairston in the same lineup should hopefully be over soon.
Follow me on Twitter @JMMancari.


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Echolocation in bats and whales based on same changes to same gene
Millions of years before humans invented sonar, bats and toothed whales had mastered the biological version of the same trick – echolocation. By timing the echoes of their calls, one group effortlessly flies through the darkest of skies and the other swims through the murkiest of waters. It's amazing enough that two such different groups of mammals should have evolved the same trick but that similarity isn't just skin deep.
The echolocation abilities of bats and whales, though different in their details, rely on the same changes to the same gene – Prestin. These changes have produced such similar proteins that if you drew a family tree based on their amino acid sequences, bats and toothed whales would end up in the same tight-knit group, to the exclusion of other bats and whales that don't use sonar.
This is one of the most dramatic examples yet of 'convergent evolution', where different groups of living things have independently evolved similar behaviours or body parts in response to similar evolutionary pressures.
It is one of a growing number of studies have shown that convergence on the surface – like having venom, being intelligent or lacking enamel – is borne of deeper genetic resemblance. But this discovery is special in a deliciously ironic way. It was made by two groups of scientists, who independently arrived at the same result. The first authors even have virtually identical names. These are people who take convergence seriously!
Yang Liu from the East China Normal University had previously shown that echolocating bats share very similar versions of Prestin, even species that were only distantly related. This time, he sequenced the gene in even more bats as well as a wide range of whales. These included toothed species (dolphins, porpoises, orcas and sperm whales) that use sonar, and baleen species that don't.
Based on the DNA sequences of these Prestin versions, Liu drew a mammal family tree (a 'phylogeny'). It looked much like what you would expect, with the whales and bats clustering in separate family groups. But convert the sequences into amino acids and the picture changes dramatically. Suddenly, the family tree becomes utterly misleading. The echolocating mammals, be they bats or whales, are united as close relatives, to the exclusion of their rightful evolutionary kin.
Ying Li (see what I mean?) from the University of Michigan found a similar result. She sequenced the Prestin gene in the bottlenosed dolphin and compared it to sequences from other mammals. Again, she found that Prestin sequences place the dolphin as a close cousin of echolocating bats rather than species that it's actually more closely related to, such as cows.
At first, it might seem strange to see such strong convergence at the genetic level. After all, bats and toothed whales echolocate very differently. Bats create their sonar pulses using their voicebox while whales pass air through their nasal bones. Bats send their calls through air and whales send their through water. A single gene can't have accounted for these differences in production.
Instead, Prestin's role is in detecting the rebounding echoes. It is activated in the "outer hair cells" of the ear, which allow mammals to hear high frequencies. In echolocating species, these cells are shorter and stiffer than normal, making them exquisitely sensitive to the ultrasonic frequencies used in echolocation. Li thinks that the Prestin changes might have helped to tune the outer hair cells of echolocators to high-pitched noises.
Liu used his sequences to reconstruct what Prestin would have looked like the ancestor of all bats and the ancestor of all whales. Compared to these original versions, echolocating species have accrued the same set of 14 amino acid changes, whether they have wings or flippers. It seems that there are only very few ways, if not only one, for mammals to hear the ultrasonic sounds needed for biological sonar.
Exactly what these amino acid changes did to the Prestin protein, and how they led to the evolution of echolocation, is a mystery for another time. It will also be interesting to see if these changes have started cropping up in the Prestins of other animals with cruder forms of sonar, like oilbirds, swiftlets, shrews and tenrecs.
Liu et al. Convergent sequence evolution between echolocating bats and dolphins. Current Biology in press.
Li et al. The Hearing Gene Prestin Unites Echolocating Bats and Whales. Current Biology in press.
More on convergent evolution:
- Three desert lizards evolve white skins through different mutations to the same gene
- Elephants and humans evolved similar solutions to problems of gas-guzzling brains
- Venomous shrews and lizards evolved toxic proteins in the same way
- Decay of enamel-forming gene linked to evolutionary loss of enamel
Comments (16)
This is quickly becoming my favorite science blog. the articles are well written and informative. Thanks, Ed!
The genetic basis of echolocation is fascinating.
Also of particular interest is the "echo" relationship between bats and some species of moths that bats hunt. It turns out that some moths can hear a bat's sonar pulses and avoid becoming dinner. These moths, using just four nerve cells, can tell how close a bat is and whether it is over, under, left, or right.That information can tell a moth to dive rapidly and increase its chances of escaping capture.
Clearly another example of not convergence, but horizontal gene transfer. Long ago there were whales that didn't really hear that well and so they struck up a symbiotic relationship with a bat (the bat's angle was to compensate for its legendary blindness). The bats used to kind of drive the whales around until the fateful viral-mediated gene transfer that allowed whales to finally hear what they'd been missing. Whales could now dive deep enough to drive off the annoying and now redundant bats and so that's where manta rays came from.
You could look it up.
"Again, he found that Prestin sequences place the dolphin as a close cousin of echolocating bats rather than species that it's actually more closely related to, such as cows."
But a cladogram is just a way of presenting similarities of characteristics. A way of showing the matrix. There is no concept of "actually more closely related to".
Is that not right?
A very cool result!
Jack, you are correct that that dolphin isn't really more closely related to bats in any way; it's an illusion of the cladogram. Usually a cladogram does reflect evolutionary relationships well, but in this case convergence is so strong that it breaks the connection between relatedness and sequence similarity.
Also, I just want to point out that Ying Li is female (the post says "he").
What I mean is that the phrase "actually more closely related to" does not have any meaning. No cladogram shows how creatures are actually related.
It just shows how creatures can be sorted depending on which characteristics you choose.
The goal of most cladograms is to show how species are actually related. Whether they do or not depends on what data go into it and what methods are used to generate it, but that is the idea. Phentics is grouping species by overall similarity, while cladistics is grouping species according to traits they share due to common heritage. Most cladograms these days are generated with cladistic goals, even though some methods are rooted in phenetics.
Of course, the cladogram above is not supposed to show relationships, it's supposed to show convergence, but most other cladograms are different.
Jack: The cladogram is not *showing* that the cows are more closely related to bats. It is generally *known* that cows are more closely related, and they are just being used for comparison in the cladogram.
And if you put the right kind of information into cladograms, they can give an approximation of evolutionary relatedness, particularly if you use highly conserved RNA sequences.
Jack: The cladogram is not *showing* that the cows are more closely related to bats. It is generally *known* that cows are more closely related, and they are just being used for comparison in the cladogram.
And if you put the right kind of information into cladograms, they can give an approximation of evolutionary relatedness, particularly if you use highly conserved RNA sequences.
I'm with the first commentor!
As luck would have it, I am finally tackling Dawkin's Blind Watchmaker this week, such a lovely illustration would well serve the next print edition! Thanks for your passion and clarity Ed!
Very, very cool. And butterflies using the earth's geomagnetic field, and ants using the sun and counting their steps (http://thoughtfulanimal.wordpress.com/2010/01/26/path-integration-in-the-desert-ant/) – seems like a big week in the blogosphere for animal navigation.
Jacob – thanks for the correction on Li's gender! Fixed.
Cool post! A beautiful science story and I think this will become a textbook example of molecular convergence. There is a third group of echolocating vertebrates, many species of cave swiftlet – of fame due to the Chinese birds nest soup – also echolocate. It would be cool to look at their prestins. As for the cladogram discussion, a cladogram based on one gene shows just the similarities of that gene/protein. In many cases, this is informative on the genetic relationships of organisms, in many others, not.
This is so, so cool. I love this universe.
Fascinating post, Ed!
But convert the sequences into amino acids and the picture changes dramatically.
So, does this mean that the DNA sequences actually were different, but code for the same amino acid sequence? That's pretty cool and definitely shows that it's not horizontal gene transfer but convergence.


text:
Opinion: First lady Melania Trump's "Be Best" initiative is a boost for the administration
EDITOR'S NOTE: Boris Epshteyn formerly served as a Senior Advisor to the Trump Campaign and served in the White House as Special Assistant to The President and Assistant Communications Director for Surrogate Operations.
WASHINGTON (Sinclair Broadcast Group) - Earlier this week, first lady Melania Trump announced her new initiative, "Be Best."
This campaign focuses on three pillars of children's issues: overall well-being, social media use, and opioid abuse prevention and education.
I know firsthand that these efforts by the first lady are authentic and heartfelt.
Mrs. Trump personally cares very deeply about children.
Mrs. Trump being at the forefront and launching this initiative is also a political win for the Trump administration.
The first lady is a popular figure who always exhibits grace and a ton of compassion for others, especially children.
According to a recent CNN poll, 57 percent of people have a favorable view of Mrs. Trump. That number has continuously climbed since January of this year.
Historically, first ladies have been great ambassadors for the White House. This first lady continues that trend.
Now with her initiative officially announced, you can expect Mrs. Trump to publicly represent this administration more and more often.
Also, do not under appreciate the first lady's political influence. She often sits in on meetings with President Trump and advises him on key agenda topics beyond just those that she is publicly working on.
Here's the bottom line: I am fully confident that the first Lady will work extremely hard to help our children as much as possible and make the "Be Best" campaign a real success. From the political standpoint, the more active and public Mrs. Trump, the better it is for President Trump and his administration.


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Footprints Hostel
$12 Early Birdy Special~~
Only 10 beds will be released each day (Sunday-Thur) for the Early Birdy Special. After the 10 beds have all been taken up, normal rates will apply.
- Full cash payment must be made in SGD upon arrival
- Highly recommended to book in advance to ensure availability
- Subject to availability
- Only valid for new guests who have not stayed in Footprints Hostel in the past 3 months
- Walk-ins and existing guests will be charged at normal rates
- No extensions of Early Birdy Specials are allowed
- Only for off-peak period (Sun-Thur)
- The management reserves the right to turn away guests we deem unsuitable
We have been voted as the Most Popular Hostel in Singapore in the 2011 Hoscar Awards and are definitely one of the most visited backpacker hostels in our city.
Footprints Backpacker Hostel is well located in the heart of the culturally rich Little India District. You will be staying right at one of Singapore's main ethnic attractions, with convenient access to many other attractions and the city.
Why choose Footprints Backpacker Hostel as your choice hostel in Singapore?
- FREE Tourist Map
- FREE 24hr WiFi Internet
- FREE 20min daily Internet Access
- FREE usage of Personal Lockers for your valuables
- FREE Daily Breakfast
- FREE access to our Book and Guide Book collection
- Fully air-conditioned rooms and dormitories
- Wall fans in every dormitory
- Clean and Fresh Linen
- Coin-operated Washing Machines and Dryers on every floor
- 24-hour Reception for late check-in, early check-out, and even for your queries
- 24-hour Access card security system for your safety
- Closed Circuit Television installed to monitor every part of the hostel
- Lobby area with comfy sofas, large screen television with many DVDS and high definition movies on the media box
- Massage chair to soothe those tired muscles
- Discounted prices to the most popular attractions in Singapore
We are located a short 10 minute walk from Little India MRT Station (Metro/Subway/Tube), which is the most cost-effective way to get around Singapore.
Travelling time to the various destinations:
City Area (Orchard Road) 5-minute journey
Clarke Quay 8-minute journey
Singapore River 8-minute journey
Chinatown 8-minute journey
Merlion and Esplanade 8-minute journey
Singapore Flyer 8-minute journey
Sentosa 12-minute journey
Zoo & Night Safari 40-minute journey
Changi Airport 40-minute journey
Marina Bay Sands 30-minute journey
Resorts World Sentosa 39-minute journey
We are situated at a premium location which is convenient to walk to anywhere. We know how backpackers love to walk everywhere.
7 Eleven 3-minute walk
ATM and Bank 5-minute walk
Little India MRT Station 10-minute walk
Bugis MRT Station 12-minute walk
Cheap and good eateries Right at our door-step
Sheng Shiong (Large Hypermarket) 5-minute walk
Mustafa Centre (Only 24-hour Shopping Mall) 10-minute walk
Queen Street Bus Terminal (Cheap buses to Malaysia) 10-minute walk
Sim Lim Square (Electronics and IT Hub) 10-minute walk
Goddess of Mercy Temple (Famous Buddhist Temple) 10-minute walk
Bugis Street (Singapore's largest street market) 15-minute walk
Orchard Road (Famous Singapore Shopping District) 15-minute walk
Arab Street (Malay Heritage Centre and Sultan Mosque) 15-minute walk
The Cathay (Nearest Cineplex at Orchard Road) 15-minute walk
Merlion (Just to let you know how near we are) 30-minute walk
As you are leaving your footprints around our little island, we too hope to leave some in your memories of your stay in Footprints, your home away from home.
Some little things to take note of:
- We only accept cash payment in SGD.
- There's a SGD20 refundable key deposit upon check-in.This fee will be refunded to you upon an incident-free check-out.
- We do not allow children 16 years and below to stay in our dormitories.
- Children below 16 should be accompanied by an adult. If you have young children traveling with you, please call or email to inform us first.
- We reserve the right to turn away guests we deem unsuitable. Do note Booking fees with Hostelworld are non-refundable.
- Please take note that our normal check-in time is at 2pm and check-out is at 12pm. Early check-in is subject to bed availability.
- We will only hold your beds or rooms for 3 hours from the arrival time you have stated in your booking form. So if there are any changes to your travel plans, please kindly inform us by phone, email or drop us a msg in Facebook.
Availability & RatesTo view availability and prices please select dates and click 'Update Dates'
Hostel Facilities & Policies
- 24 Hour Reception
- 24 Hour Security
- Adaptors
- Age Restriction
- Air Conditioning
- Bicycle hire
- Board Games
- Book Exchange
- Free Breakfast
- Ceiling Fan
- Child Friendly
- Common Room
- Credit Cards Not Accepted
- DVDs
- Free City Maps
- Free Internet Access
- Free WiFi
- Hair Dryers
- Hair Dryers For Hire
- Hot Showers
- Internet Access
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Laundry Facilities
- Linen Included
- Security Lockers
- Luggage Storage
- Microwave
- Mini Supermarket
- No Curfew
- Non Smoking
- Outdoor Terrace
- Reading Light
- Taxes included
- Towels For Hire
- Washing Machine
Cancellation PolicyThis property has a 3 day cancellation policy. Failure to cancel within this time will result in a cancellation charge equal to the first night of your stay.
Must-Read Hostel InfoThis property has specific Terms & Conditions.
1) There are no en-suites or private attached bathrooms available for the dormitories. Family rooms comes with en-suite or shared baths. Room description will indicate the type of family room. All other hostel facilities are shared.
2) We do not allow children 16 years and below to stay in our Dorms.
3) Children below 16 should be accompanied by an adult and are only able to stay in private family rooms or private dormitories . If you have young children traveling with you, please call or email to inform us first. Children above 3 years old is considered as a regular pax in family room.
4) Additional mattress is available at SGD$20 for private family rooms or private dormitories. Additional charge of SGD$20 applies for per additional pax beyond the maximum room capacity.
5) Payment: Cash payment only in hostel. A key deposit of SGD$20 is to be placed upon check-in. (There is also an option to put your passport or any other currency (must be equivalent to SGD$20) as the deposit for those who wish to spend all your Singapore Dollar.) This fee will be refunded upon an incident-free check-out.
6) Credit cards: Not accepted.
7) Cancellation policy: 72 hours or 3 days advance notice is required for cancellation, postponement or any special requests you may have. A first night charge applies for no show, cancellation and postponement with less than 72 hours or 3 days advance notice period. Deposits and service charges paid to Hostelworld or other online booking portals are non-refundable.
8) Requests for refunds for early check-out are subjected to 72 hours or 3 days advance notice. Refunds are only applicable from the 4th night. Deposits and service charges paid to Hostelworld or other online booking portals are non-refundable.
9) We will only hold your rooms/beds for 3 hours from your stated time of arrival in your booking form. (Kindly send us an email, call us or send us a message on Facebook if there are any changes to your itinerary.)
10) All promotional beds/deals are only valid for new guests who have not stayed with Footprints Hostel in the past 3 months.
11) All specials/promotional beds/deals are not applicable to walk-in guests and existing guests who are extending their stay.
12) The management reserves the right to turn away guests we deem unsuitable.
DirectionsShow MapHide Map
From the AIRPORT
By MRT
Total time: 46mins, Approx. fare: $1.55
Board the train towards Tanah Merah Station and alight at Tanah Merah Station.
Board the train towards the city and Joo Koon and alight at Bugis Station.
Take Exit A and walk along the carpark towards Rochor Centre.
Cross the road and cut through Rochor Centre.
Cross at the big junction towards Sim Lim Tower (not Sim Lim Square) and walk along Jalan Besar Road. You should see Hai Sing Hotel across the road (green building).
Cross the road towards Hai Sing Hotel and turn into Dickson Road.
Look out for our HUGE orange signboard.
By Taxi
Total time: 23mins, Approx. fare: $27.76
Flagdown fare: $3.00
Metered fare: $13.64
Late night surcharge: $8.32
Airport surcharge: $3.00
(Approx Fare is based on after midnight and before 6am)
By Car
T2 Departure Drive
Head north on T2 Departure Drive-0.9km
T2 Boulevard
Continue on T2 Boulevard-0.4km
Airport Boulevard
Turn left at Airport Boulevard-1.2km
East Coast Parkway
Continue on East Coast Parkway-14.6km
Rochor Road
Take Exit 15 - Rochor Road, onto Rochor Road-0.4km
Rochor Road
Continue on Rochor Road-1.0km
Victoria Street
Turn right at Victoria Street-0.3km
Arab Street
Slight left at Arab Street-0.2km
Weld Road
Continue on Weld Road-0.2km
Jalan Besar
Slight left at Jalan Besar-0.1km
Dunlop Street
Turn right at Dunlop Street-0.1km
Perak Road
Turn right at Perak Road-68m
Dickson Road
Turn right at Dickson Road-0.1km
By Airport Shuttle
Travelers looking for a speedy and affordable transport option that brings you to the door step of your hostel are recommended to take the Airport Shuttle Service which charges based on headcount. This service is available 24hrs daily, and passengers are required to book at the counters in the Arrival Halls of Terminals 1, 2 & 3.
Travel Fare
S$9.00 Per adult
S$6.00 Per child
Payment Mode
Singapore Dollar Currency
Departure Schedule
Every 15 minutes from 0600 to Midnight.
Every 30 minutes from Midnight to 0600
Contact Information
Airport Shuttle Counter, Terminal 1 Arrival Hall : (65) 65431985
Airport Shuttle Counter, Terminal 2 Arrival Hall : (65) 65461646
Airport Shuttle Counter, Terminal 3 Arrival Hall : (65) 62413818 (Main booking hotline)
From the CAUSEWAY (Woodlands Checkpoint)
By Bus
Total time: 67mins, Approx. fare: $1.79
Take bus 170 from Woodlands Checkpoint, Bus stop number 46109, alight at The Verge, Sungei Road, Bus stop number 07539.
Turn into Perak Road, walk straight to Footprints Hostel. Look out for our HUGE orange signboard.
Total time: 55mins, Approx. fare: $2.5-$4
Alternatively, take the Causeway Link bus or Singapore-Johore Express to Queen Street terminal and walk over.
Cut through Rochor Centre.
Cross at the big junction towards Sim Lim Tower (not Sim Lim Square) and walk along Sungei Road. You should see Hai Sing Hotel across the road (green building).
Cross the road towards Hai Sing Hotel and turn into Dickson Road.
Look out for our HUGE orange signboard.
By Taxi
Total time: 25mins, Approx. fare: $25.27
Flagdown fare - $3.00
Metered fare - $15.18
Late night surcharge: $9.09
(Approx Fare is based on after midnight and before 6am)
From GOLDEN MILE COMPLEX:
By Bus
Total time: 27mins, Approx. fare: $0.73
Board at Blk 8, Bus stop number 01329, North Bridge Road.
Alight after Sim Lim Square, Rochor Canal Road, 7 stops later.
Cross the road toward The Verge.
Walk into Perak Road.
Look out for our Huge orange signboard.
By MRT
Board at the MRT at Nicoll Highway station towards Dhoby Ghaut Station on the Circle Line.
Alight at Dhoby Ghaut Station and walk to the platform toward Punggol on the North East Line.
Board the MRT and alight at Little India Station.
Take exit C and walk along Bukit Timah Road towards The Verge, Sungei Road.
Walk straight then turn right into Clive Street.
Continue walking straight until Dickson Road
Turn Right at Dickson Road
Continue walking straight until Perak Road
Turn left at Perak Road
Look out for our Huge orange signboard.
By Taxi
Total time: 6mins, Approx. fare: $8.40
Flagdown fare: $3.00
Metered fare: $0.66
Late night surcharge: $1.83
(Approx Fare is based on after midnight and before 6am)
By Walking:
Total time: 25mins, Distance: 5.4km
Beach Road
Facing Golden mile Complex turn right. Walk straight until you reach Jalan Sultan Road.
Jalan Sultan Road
Turn right at Junction and walk along Jalan Sultan until you reach Victoria Street.
Victoria Street
Continue on Victoria Street.
Arab Street
Turn right at Arab Street.
Weld Road
Continue on Weld Road.
Jalan Besar
Slight left at Jalan Besar.
Dickson Road
Turn right at Dickson Road
Perak Road
Continue on Dickson Road, turn right at Perak Road and you will see our HUGE orange signboard.
Located Near
Footprints Backpacker Hostel is conveniently located right smack in the middle of the culturally rich Little India, the centre for Singapore's Indian community. It is one of the most colourful and exotic places to visit on the island. The streets are dotted with small shops and eateries and if you are a bargain-hunter, cheap-gets are aplenty. Modern shopping malls and convenient public transport and other tourist attractions are also just within walking distance!


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Earlier this month, CommGAP hosted a conference on "Deliberation for Development: New Directions." The meeting was headed by the World Bank's Vijayendra Rao and Patrick Heller from Brown University and provided a vast and rich overview over the issue of deliberation as it concerns our work on the ground. Here's a little summary of the day, which by no means captures even a fraction of the wealth of information and knowledge that was presented, but may be an appetizer for our forthcoming book gathering all those contributions.
The first speaker, Arjun Appadurai of New York University, spoke about the importance of context: success of deliberation depends on factors outside the deliberative frame, mostly social and political power structures. Individual deliberation events may fail more often than not, especially if it's about allocating resources for the poor. However, while isolated deliberative occasions may be a failure in their own narrow context, in aggregation over time even those failures can alter those very contexts that made them fail at the outset.
Gerry Mackie from the University of California gave an example where this kind of gradual change of context may be happening as we speak: Mackie studies the effects of a form of educational deliberation on the practice of female circumcision and does indeed report changes that may be small, but can accumulate to a change of norms in a society - even within only one generation, as he hopes. The point in this case is indeed about accumulation: from small seminars educating about female circumcision to public declarations abandoning female circumcision to large weddings of an uncircumcized bride.
Context was also a keyword for the presentation by Ann Swidler and Susan Watkins (both University of California), who talked about practices of deliberation in rural Malawi. Many deliberation events organized by NGOs and donors tend to be modeled after a class room - with the facilitator talking a lot and the participants nodding silently. That kind of context is unlikely to allow for the disadvantaged to make their voice heard and even get results. Local institutions and communal structures, on the other hand, may not be set up as formal deliberative processes, but justice still can be done through communal channels such as hearings with the village headman.
One rather classic example of successful deliberation is, of course, participatory budgeting after the Porto Alegre model. Gianpaolo Baiocchi (Brown University) showed how this practice spread first throughout Latin America, then Asia and Africa, and some industrialized states. Context is yet again the crux: While adapting successful models may be an obvious thing to do, a blue-print of one model is not appropriate for every context, and can turn something genuinely demand-driven into a technocratic solution. Best practices are certainly helpful, but they don't necessarily work everywhere. In the specific case of participatory budgeting, Baiocchi explained that civil society was actually the most fragile part of the coalitions around participatory budgeting because of the different reactions those in power had to those people who were to represent the citizens.
JP Singh from Georgetown University and the World Bank's Michael Woolcock took deliberation for development to a systemic level. Singh discussed the deliberative nature of the WTO versus UNESCO, arguing that, perhaps unexpectedly, the WTO is more participatory than UNESCO, possible because it is more focused and less prone to internal turf wars. According to Singh issue structures play an important role in predicting the success of institutional deliberative processes.
Woolcock analyzed the role of deliberation in enhancing the rule of law and local level justice, proposing a matrix a "paths to justice," how and through whom the rule of law comes to serve the poor. The matrix spans the dimensions of judicial status of a problem (whether a case is actionable within the legal system), the perception whether the problem is perceived of being worthy of correction through the legal system, and the capacity of the legal system to address the problem. The "pathways to justice" within this matrix include co-optation, codification, legislation, contestation, invocation (appeals to international norms), and mediation.
Necessarily, this is a short summary of a very rich conference day. But never fear, it will all be published in CommGAP's forthcoming book on "Deliberation and Development," edited by Vijayendra Rao and Patrick Heller. This book will also include commentaries and additional perspectives on deliberation by such notable scholars as Jane Mansbridge (Harvard), who will give the debate a conceptual frame; Varun Gauri (World Bank), who will discuss juries; Peter Evans of the University of California, who will write about what deliberation can do and what it cannot do; Archon Fung (Harvard) on the role of technology for deliberation, Ghazala Mansuri (World Bank) on local capacity and the effectiveness of participation; and Paromita Sanyal from Wesleyan College on the role of culture.
Picture: Flickr user Paul-W
- Tags:
- voice
- Vijayendra Rao
- Varun Gauri
- unesco
- Susan Watkins
- rule of law
- Public Deliberation
- Poverty Alleviation
- Poverty
- Porto Alegre
- Policy Making
- Peter Evans
- Patrick Heller
- Participatory Budgeting
- Michael Woolcock
- Malawi
- JP Singh
- Jane Mansbridge
- Gram Sabhas
- Gianpaolo Baiocchi
- Ghazala Mansuri
- Gerry Mackie
- Female Circumcision
- equality
- empowerment
- Deliberation
- Consensus
- Arjun Appadurai
- Archon Fung
- Ann Swidler
- Agency


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It seems like the report that Texans running back Arian Foster is "likely" to undergo heart surgery to deal with his irregular heartbeat was a little premature.
Foster was a guest on the Dan Patrick Show Friday and took a moment to address the report from Alex Flanagan of the NFL Network. Foster said that surgery is a possibility to help correct the issue, which forced him out of the team's loss to the Vikings in December, but that he hasn't spoken to any doctor yet about the specifics of an operation. Foster also downplayed the seriousness of the issue.
"Nothing is life threatening," Foster said. "It's a scary nuisance."
Texans General Manager Rick Smith said that the team's doctors don't believe Foster needs an operation. The running back's answers on Friday suggest that he is still weighing the options available to him, which is obviously the wisest course of action when dealing with something as significant as heart surgery. For now, though, it appears to be too early to say what decision Foster will wind up making.


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President To Pardon Turkeys
WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama throws his support behind Liberty...
Arab Christians, minorities, reshaping US enclaves
Arab Christians, minorities, reshaping US enclaves
Category: Religious News
Amish Attack
CLEVELAND (AP) - Federal prosecutors say a suspect in beard- and
hair-cutting attacks against fellow Amish in Ohio joked about the
assaults and said he'd do it again.
Prosecutors also say Lester Mullet was a willing and joyful
participant in the attacks last fall. A filing in federal court in
Cleveland asks Judge Dan Polster to keep Mullet in jail pending
Mullet's attorney said in a court filing that Mullet is needed
at home to help his pregnant wife and their three children. But the
government says there are no bond conditions that would guarantee
Mullet would show up in court or not be a danger to the Amish
Mullet has pleaded not guilty. His father, Sam Mullet Sr., is
the attacks' alleged ringleader.


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How PTRCs help you
Patenting an invention and trademarking a product name can be challenging. PTRC library staff are information experts trained on how to use search tools to access patent and trademark information. They provide the human touch that no webpage or legal book can provide in helping inventors and small businesses find the information they need to protect their intellectual property. However, PTRC representatives are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice.
PTRC library representatives can:
- Provide access to resources such as PubEAST and PubWEST, examiner-based search systems
- Direct you to information and explain the application process and fee schedule
- Demonstrate how to use search tools to conduct a patent or trademark search
- Show you a directory of local patent attorneys who are licensed to practice before the USPTO
- Offer classes on intellectual property (varies by location)
- Offer assistance on how to do historical research on patents and trademarks
- Show you how to track current research by company or nonprofit
- Help you find assignee information and much more.


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SYDNEY (Reuters) - - Will Ferrell and the rest of the cast of "Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues" crossed live to Australia on Sunday, walking down a burgundy carpet at the comedy's premiere in Sydney to the cheers of swarming fans.
Following the news team as they adapt to working at a 24-hour channel, the highly anticipated sequel to "Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy" reunites Farrell, Steve Carell, Paul Rudd, David Koechner and Christina Applegate.
The 2004 original, with the dapper Burgundy challenged by the arrival of the ambitious Veronica Corningstone, won cult-like status on the back of plucky one-liners and satirical commentary on the ingrained sexism of the 1970s. It made about $90 million at the box office.
Ferrell, who plays the central character, said he thought fans would enjoy the sequel.
"Each one has a new life to itself and I think they're all fun in their own way," said Ferrell. "I think what's fun about these characters is they really don't show any emotional growth whatsoever."
Director Adam McKay, known for his collaborations with Ferrell, was already holding out the possibility of a third movie.
Due for public release on December 20, the sequel features cameos by a raft of celebrities including Liam Neeson, James Marsden, Nicole Kidman and Kanye West.
"I think if you liked the first one you'll like this one. It raises the bar a little from the first one. I don't think the writers rested on their morals. They took this idea and amplified it," said Carell, who returns as not-so-bright weatherman Brick Tamland.
In character as Burgundy, Ferrell has conducted a guerrilla marketing campaign by cycling with electronic music duo Daft Punk, presenting at the MTV European awards, releasing a short video before the Australian elections and serenading embattled Toronto Mayor Rob Ford on television.
"We tend to shoot it as written and we work around it. Will is such an incredible improviser and Adam likes to work like that and there's always crazy stuff happening," said Paul Rudd, who plays reporter and ladies' man Brian Fantana.
"I don't think these characters evolve too much. But things have happened in the interim."
Editing by John O'Callaghan


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Fuchsia Dunlop's Twice-Cooked Swiss Chard (Hui Gua Niu Pi Cai)
Chard is a mainstay in my kitchen during the long winter months. The fast-cooking greens are chock full of vitamins to counteract all of that rich comfort food. But even a tender green such as chard gets dull as we wait for the exciting vegetables of spring.
Leave it to Fuchsia Dunlop to reinvigorate chard by treating it like pork. In Every Grain of Rice, Dunlop presents an array of recipes using chard and other leafy greens, but it was the twice-cooked recipe that really caught my eye. The chard is, indeed, cooked twice (a quick blanch followed by a turn in simmering sauce). The real draw, however, is the brawny sauce: chilli bean paste, fermented black beans, garlic, ginger, chicken broth, and a generous pour of oil transform the green into an almost meaty dish.
Why I picked this recipe: I've eaten my fair share of twice-cooked pork at my favorite Chinese restaurants, so I was eager to apply these flavors to one of my favorite winter greens, swiss chard.
What worked: Once again, everything was on point. The chard was deeply savory, with a hint of spice from the chilli bean paste.
What didn't: Nothing; you may find it strange (as I did) to blanch the greens in unsalted water, but the intense saltiness of the sauce more than makes up for the lack of seasoning in the blanching water.
Suggested tweaks: You could use this sauce for any manner of vegetables or leafy greens. Blanch until they are tender, and toss in the simmering sauce at the last minute. Small pieces of tofu would also not be out of place here, should you want to turn this side into an entree.
As always with our Cook the Book feature, we have five (5) copies of Every Grain of Rice to give away this week.
This post may contain links to Amazon or other partners; your purchases via these links can benefit Serious Eats. Read more about our affiliate linking policy.


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BROCKTON (CBS) – A dispute over a sandwich at a Brockton Dunkin' Donuts led to an argument and the shots.
A carload of teenagers Thursday drove up to the window in the drive-thru and argued about their order with a worker.
A manager was called, but tempers flared and the driver leaned out of the car and punched the manager in the face.
Then the driver took out a BB gun and shot two holes in the drive-thru glass.
No one was hurt by the shots, but some of the other customers were surprised.
"I thought it was gunshots," a customer said. "And over a sandwich?"
Another customer said, "For it to happen in the first place, it's just crazy."
The manager who was punched in the face is resting at home.
The incident is under investigation.
Those were not "teens" ,they were feral niglets again
roving minority, "flash mobs" are common in many large cities. and will increase as "progressive' mayors and worthless "parents" encourage/excuse them.
Daddy, can you tell me the story about how we are all equal again? That was a funny one
Hillary voters.
The Bell Curve in action.
Got THAT right! And MLK is spinning in his grave.
Surveillance camera footage available but not shown in hte report. I guess we know the shooter's race then.
Heading home from the Maxine Waters rally?
More like a James Brown Wig Convention.
Would it be a lucky guess or an educated guess that these teens were melanin endowed.
No details mentioned. none needed. Teens indeed. Obama's kids at it again.
Teens means dindu nuffins
My Wife used to run a DD and was held up at gun point. Probably not a good job to be in? It was two blacks who were on a rampage and got gunned down by the cops. Why I live in the South!.
YEARS of JAIL TIME is what will deter this subhuman behavior in others.
Judges in Massachusetts are so politically twisted, they don't have the GUTS to properly sanction anyone. Just watch and see.
Only if that jail is located in Africa. Move our prisons to Africa and this violence will stop over night.
The TRUE Africans would just sell them as slaves to another tribe who would declare war when they discovered how worthless they are.
dindu violence is an epidemic have a look at Colin Flaherty's youtube channel.
Pick up his books too, but prepare to be angered at the ignorance and denial by the government and news media about the epidemic of black mob violence.
Damn Mormons
Teens- the codeword for African-Americans.
"Car load of teens" = street apes.
No description? No survellience video? Is there a drive through in the entire civilized world without a video camera? 🙄
Do you think they were black? nope, you know they were and guess what you're racist for thinking it. And when the next black mob attack happens and your 10 year old kid gets a concussion from getting kicked in the head but a dozen "youths" (the new 'N' word) you're a racist if you notice all the animals are black. just like all the killings in Chicago by blacks. You're a racist for noticing and suggesting they stop. Racist. White people are evil. (secretly happy to be white, even proud) Whaaaaat? oh mah gawd a waaat suppremisisisisist.
The ethnicity associated with stories like this is seldom a surprise…blacks.
I bet they were mere childs like those the cops have to deal with that rob.
Notice the left wing media says BB lol — ha ha really powerful BB
Feral Youth, created by the joint efforts of the Government Controlled Poverty Industry.
Must have been those blond blued eyes mobs again.
I know actual Africans , from Kenya, Knowing a black person who does not have a racial chip on their shoulder is a delight, wonderful people. The all tell me the Black Americans that visit their country are for the most part the biggest "A" holes of all.
You are correct. Way back in the 70's, my friend told me that European blacks hated American blacks. She grew up in London and her father was an ambassador. American blacks were considered a disgrace. And it IS refreshing to have black friends without chips on their shoulders.
Drop them into an active volcano. I'd buy tickets to that.
The Ungowa tribe of the We-Be people.
PSSSTTT! Hey, noglets, I hear Harvard be raciss-an-sheet! Y'all oughtta go spark it up there! Lotsa self-loathing White guilt wimminz dere, too. So, spark it up and nut out. Enjoy the weekend.
Dunkin Donuts have gotten pretty bad since they stopped making them on site, but I didn't think they were that bad.
Amish youth on Rumspringa
AHH Those Amish!
Shoot back with something bigger. .45acp would be a good choice.
Lemme guess..There wasn't enough special sauce on the pavement-ape's fish sandwich..Right?
Heading home from the Maxine Waters rally?
"Don't Make the Black Kids Angry" by Colin Flaherty is something we should all read. When the race is not mentioned you KNOW it was black people doing the crime. But let's not arrest them but make excuses for them! After all they are so repressed because of the fault of white people all the time holding them down. Put them in jail?? The leftists say NO there are too many blacks in prison now so we must do everything to keep these animals on the street!!
White Girl Bleed Alot authored by Colin Flaherty. It'll make you sick and angry at how this behavior is tolerated and covered-up by local officials and PC snowflakes in the media.
"carload of teenagers"…"the driver". Video of the incident available but not shown.
Another classic example of the PC media propagandists attempting to condition their readers to ignore the obvious.
Political Correctness is killing us. All cultures are not the same.
"The most insidious power the media has, is the power to ignore." (Chris Plante, WMAL)
But it isn't like we didn't know:
"Our job is to give people not what they want, but what we decide they ought to have." -Richard Salant, former president of CBS News
"We are going to impose our agenda on the coverage, by dealing with issues and subjects that we choose to deal with." – Richard Cohen, Senior Producer, CBS Political News
that wonderful liberal democrat culture of hate and murder
And of course this happened in the wonderful Marxist state of Assachusetts, Democrat Utopia, where criminals are hugged and apologized to. Wonder what medal they'll be awarded, and what sentence the manager will have to serve?
I didn't know Brockton had an Amish population.
No, they were not 'teens'. They were feral knee grows acting like their arfican jungle cousins.
(all restaurants need to keep a dozen bananas on hand to throw at these urban chimps for when they decide to go wild, and they all eventually will.)
Actually, the tribes in Africa had very strict rules with the ultimate punishment of being banished from the tribe. You could lose a hand if you stole, for example!
Brockton? Teens? Sons of Obamama. Do they ever wonder why we hate them? Around the blacks, never relax.
BLM heroes. Part of the left wing constituency along with trans, illegals and other riff raff.
I wish the media would stop giving teenagers a bad name in stories like this, it paints All American teenagers with the black brush. 98% of all of these incidents are done by blacks, don't lump normal teenagers in with them!
It's become so bad these days, that they don't need to describe the race of the thugs. You automatically know that it was a carload of black thugs, just out having a little fun. If they wanted to have lots of fun, they would have shot the manager with a 9mm handgun and laughed about it.
I can't believe that they "demonize" teens!!! It's just not right to castigate an entire age group! (sarcasm)
When race isn't mentioned, you know that the thugs were minorities, probably BLACK … !!!!
Another case of media bias–concealing the race/sex/identity of the purps in order to please the P.C. police.
"teens" and "youths" are the media code words used when ferals do their thing
Why are we always forced to axe about the race of the perpetrators?
TYpical, Leave out the race of the suspects. Why, because they were NOT white.
"Teens." 'nuff said.
Yeah, teens…we all know what that means now…They need to think of a new moniker…If you haven't done it yet; google; black teens the google white teens…It's hilarious.
Ben Rhodes' brother is president of CBS news, that's why you don't get the truth.
Why don't they stop waiting on those that cause the most crime? There is a reason there are no surveillance photos
More black kids learning their life long trade !
I suppose the thugs weren't named Brian, Biff or Gary…More like DeLondre, Marcus or Keshon.
Brockton…getting more ghetto by the day. Thank the damn Amish demographic…..
SCHWARTZES!!! It's SCHWARTZES, I tell you!!!
I'm sure these were all honors students who were just admitted to Harvard and were out on a break as a study group
You can be assured they were OBAMMYS people.
Damn, was it those Amish kids again?
You don't want to give a BLT to a Muslim. Something you could loose your head over.
Hmmm… looks like a 9mm to me. Had to be a BB gun since firearms are illegal without a permit in Mass!


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Pulsations (06.30.10)
Here are the latest Pulsations, links to fresh stories and visuals about Japan, shout-outs to fellow bloggers, and highly clickable stuff that we think you might enjoy.
In no particular order, they are …
- The meaning of the Upper House election (from Observing Japan): Tobias Harris writes it's "now an election on the future of Japan."
- The Jimusho System: Part 2 (from Neojapanisme): W. David Marx looks at shadowy keiretsu in Japan's music industry, or rather the several elephants in the room.
- Faith in Numbers (from Shisaku): Tokyo and Asahi Shimbun place their bets … on iffy projections.
- Japan and the World Cup: Silencing the critics (from Global Voices): If only Japan had scored that penalty kick …
- Kuwata Keisuke's recent work (from Sgt. Tanuki's Lonely Hearts Club Blog): The Japanese sequel to "Abbey Road"
- What's the best Japanese language electronic dictionary? (from Tofugu): Steve Jobs would approve of the answer.
- Japan's Internet-Banned Election Probed By Voice Over Twitter (from Asiajin): A politician finds a loophole in the election machinery.
- 15 Abandoned Haikyo Phones (from Out of Ruins): That's strange. Why is no one answering?
- How to have a 'cheap' wedding in Japan (from Surviving in Japan): Used kimono for the dress, grassy park for the aisle. You may now kiss the bride.


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How the Weirdest Duo in Fashion Works
Christina Binkley discusses her interview with Viktor & Rolf, one of the weirder design duos in fashion, who answer questions such as: Why fashion looks so weird and what you put in stores when your collection looks like it was cut with a hacksaw? Photo: Adrian Gaut for The Wall Street Journal.
This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.
... I ... I am twenty doubts what you seen lady got out without ... panties the head ... chest models and downs that look like Swiss cheese and ... you know if they make dolls aren't when her debut on silent in these series ... that this is that Thomas Christina Binkley profiles Victor and wall joints now ... but a quick preview of that conversation ... Christine apathy would all know these guys why didn't you choose to interview them ... I have been alternatively gravity ... and laughing hilariously in three of their fashion shows for years now they are so the most entertaining fashion designers out there they ever show in Paris I never know what they're going to do ... um to be to get trashed a lot for their for the risk that they've taken not all the critics like alike aam but they do but they are always making a statement with finance and the statements they have made on the runway new goddess of been there they're fashion shed seven shows singing women down the runway ... wearing clogs ... I had in Women chest and downs as I said that look like the malice to buy them that they look like Swiss cheese ... I'd talk to salute about that what's the mood like a piece that jazz ... what you know it's interesting is it really did depends on what ... they're doing he can either turn and be a beautiful thing where people are sitting in their seats be excited about what they're seeing ... the year that they did downs that were thick with school that they've been to the ... side of holes in our side sections apart though ... is a great year for the people of that question the other times and frankly people do little to dock they don't understand where this duo were coming from ... the dead at fashion show went on I will never forget will walk in they told us to turn up for cellphones fashion so fashion shows are noisy and we can peer out why he would have to be that it turned out that they turned down ... all the lights all this down and the models had to walk carries huge frames with lights and sat little record players ... and that nobody understood what that was about can really see that close so if you would actually I thoroughly enjoyed the theater of it but I'm they did not get good reviews and what's the deal with the Lady GA GA story they went backstage she was getting dressed that something like that ... yet they will only be God does matter ... back to him I ask them about what it's like to dress her they took this story I'm going back stage and there she was she had a ... t shirt with Shu Han leaves over the chest and she had no panties on ... she explained that she needed for pennies on while she's introducing them to her parents who were standing right they are ... they bought this was all great fun and told me that they really like authentic people ... up and it isn't the first word that comes to mind that from anyone I think of Lady GA GA but that was the way they saw her ... do want to push the limits of our Christina particularly in these passages in all just about getting buzz and publicists the ... word is there some other certain method behind the madness ... now I think it is about getting buys in publicity no doubt and it's really for them ... also about art being set you back eyes that are really interested in creating art and putting on the runways the truth is that if he got a closer look that most of these clothes that they're putting out their beer in particular sleek design and then put together ... they get collection actually they've done this twice with a foot entire collection ... on one model at one time and when they do that each piece of clothing is like a puzzle piece you couldn't put another piece and offer them was they were so carefree this up I into it together that they build up into a large image so it's it's it's an inherent in episodes of their obsessive compulsive about ... to create sianz and they really are quite skilled in beautiful and in just below goals in their clothing is our end ... it now that I've that I find that still out there ... yes porcelain the two Koreas dolls every season they take one or two dolls ... and dress them ... with ... iconic looks from the collection in now after many years in India since nineteen ninety three they have credit but two goals ... are I Christina Binkley


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We had quite a number of calls on a story that we broke a couple of weeks ago concerning the dog-baiting issue. I had a good chat with Chief David McAllister on this matter at the time and will meet with him early next week to see where we go from here. It seems that evidence of dog baiting is one of those bellwether activities that really gets the attention of law enforcement, especially those involved in the proactive field of community policing.
We are fortunate to have Chief McAllister in Bluffton as he is a nationally recognized "community policing" expert, having published scholarly papers on different aspects of this law enforcement specialty. I look forward to hearing his views on how we can rid our community of these despicable forms of animal abuse and all the related activities that go along with dog fighting and dog baiting.
An interesting sidebar to the story has to do with the poor animal whose discovery sparked the widespread outrage since we initially broke the story. The dog now has a name, "Malachi," and his rehabilitation has become something of a personal matter in the community. So much so that there is an event planned for 8 p.m. Saturday at Montana's Restaurant to raise funds to help Malachi and other fighting dogs that are likely to be discovered as Chief McAllister turns up the heat on this heinous "sport." The event is sponsored by Three Black Dogs, whose number is 706-3456. Call them for more info and to contribute.
I want to also thank all the friends who called last week to let us know our web site, as well as my legislative email account, was down. It took some doing, but finally the good folks over at Hargray were able to track down the problem and set things right.
As if we needed more evidence that Bluffton punches well above its weight, the Tea Party Express is coming to our little town for an event Saturday. As the developer of the Calhoun Street Promenade, it has been our policy to host any and all charity or political events on the community space in the center of the park. In keeping with that longstanding policy, we welcome the Tea Party Express and look forward to hearing from some of the heavy hitters vying for the GOP presidential nomination.
From past tea party events, we couldn't help but notice that our gathering place in the Promenade is always just as trash free and immaculate after the rally as it was before. We appreciate this example of responsible event planning more than you know. I also appreciate the emphasis that these folks place on shrinking the size of government, an issue your representative has been aggressively championing for nearly a decade.
When you combine our striving to repatriate more Beaufort County tax dollars back to local needs with an overall downsizing of the state government, it turns out we can do both at the same time. This results, paradoxically, in Beaufort County being somewhat less of a donor county, while at the same time increasing the state contribution to our schools and roads. I'm certainly glad to have the tea party energy working with me on this two-track mission.
Finally, more indicators of the ascending status of District 118 and Beaufort County. There is to be a reception for your representative at the beautiful home of my dear friend Joanie Heyward on Thursday, Sept. 15. The special guest speaker is my friend and colleague, Rep. Bobby Harrell, speaker of the S.C. House of Representatives. For more information, contact Donna Martin at 561-3738.
Bill Herbkersman, R-Bluffton, represents District 118 in the South Carolina House of Representatives. He can be reached through his Web site at www.herbkersman.com or by telephone at 757-7900.


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baz-k necesitaba un nuevo diseño de logotipo y lanzó un concurso de diseño en 99designs.
Un ganador ha sido elegido entre 136 diseños de 49 diseñadores freelance.
Muscle Force
Training supplements brand based in the UK.
Our dietary supplements are geared towards athletes and people who exercise.
We are looking for a text based logo for our training supplements brand "Muscle Force", the design should look sleek and professional whilst also targeting our desired audience.
The logo should be in very high resolution so that we do not lose quality when trying to print it in a larger size. We should also be able to place the logo on various different coloured backgrounds.
There are no colour scheme or palette requirements, so feel free to be creative.
Please keep in mind that it is for a work out supplements line, it may be a good idea to familiarize yourselves with the type of branding and logo's used by other people in the same industry.
The following are links to logo's used in the industry....
Descubre cómo funciona un concurso de diseño u obtén más información sobre nuestros servicios de diseño de logo.


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CarePages, sponsored by Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, allows patients and families to create a free, private Web page that helps them stay in touch with friends and family before, during and after hospitalization. CarePages makes it easy to:
CarePages are fully secure, password protected and comply with all patient privacy regulations.
To create a CarePage or learn more about it, visit: http://www.carepages.com/laheyclinic.
If you need assistance, contact CarePages Customer Support at email@example.com or call (888) 852-5521, Monday-Friday, 9am-7pm.


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LITTLE ROCK — The head of a state board that voted to allow some public school districts to arm teachers and staff said Thursday he opposes arming teachers but said the board voted as it did in the expectation that the Legislature would take action on the issue.
LITTLE ROCK — The head of a state board that voted to allow some public school districts to arm teachers and staff said Thursday he opposes arming teachers but said the board voted as it did in the expectation that the Legislature would take action on the issue.
A state senator said Thursday he may propose abolishing the board.
Jack Acre of Little Rock, chairman of the state Board of Private Investigators and Private Security Agencies, appeared before the House and Senate judiciary committees to answer questions about the board's decision in September to allow 13 school districts to use teachers and staff as armed security guards.
The districts had obtained authorization to arm employees, some of them decades ago, based on an interpretation of state law that Attorney General Dustin McDaniel said in an Aug. 1 opinion was erroneous.
The practice received media attention after the Clarksville School District said it planned to arm two dozen teachers and staff members. After being asked by a state legislator for an opinion on the matter, McDaniel said the board cannot authorize districts to arm their employees, although he said districts could contract with private security agencies or use school resource officers for security.
At a Sept. 11 meeting, the board voted 3-2 to allow districts that had already been approved to use employees as armed security guards to continue doing so for two years. The board said it would accept no new applications during that time.
Acre said Thursday the board hopes to see legislative action to address the issue before those two years are up.
"We wanted to put it back in these guys' lap," he told reporters after testifying before the judiciary committees.
Rep. Patti Julian, D-North Little Rock, asked Acre during the hearing, "So you're telling me that members of the board basically decided to absolutely disregard the opinion of the chief legal officer of Arkansas?"
"Three of them did," Acre said, adding that McDaniel's opinion was not binding.
Acre noted that he was one of the two "no" votes.
"Schoolteachers are educators. I cannot see why a teacher personally needs to be armed," he said. "A teacher cannot stand up in front of a classroom, keep one eye on the classroom and one eye on the door and an ear on the hallway. Their job is to teach those students the best they can."
Acre also said he was concerned about students possibly getting their hands on guns.
"What's going to happen if some irate kid back there in the back gets hacked off at the teacher or gets mad at another student and, knowing that the teacher's got a weapon on them, goes up there and overpowers the teacher and takes the gun away?" he said.
Sen. Gary Stubblefield, R-Branch, whose district includes Clarksville and who supports letting schools arm teachers, took issue with Acre's comment that teachers cannot keep one eye on the classroom and one eye on the door.
"Whether you've got a gun or whether you don't have a gun, if you're a teacher, with the environment we've been in in the last few years in this country, you're going to be looking at that door," Stubblefield said.
Sen. Jeremy Hutchinson, R-Little Rock, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said that in next month's fiscal session "one thing I'm inclined to do is abolish the board and allow the state police to (take over its duties)."
Acre, who owns Razorback Security Service of Little Rock, said he did not believe the state police — currently the administrative agency for the board — could fulfill the board's role effectively. He told reporters the state needs a regulatory body that can police investigators and security agencies and punish rule violators, which he said the state police lacks the expertise and manpower to do.
"They don't have the manpower to do what they need to do right now," he said.


text:
Irving, TX (PRWEB) November 20, 2012
The global automotive tire industry, after witnessing moderate growth during the last five years, is expected to reach an estimated $188 billion in 2017 with a CAGR of 4.1% over the next five years. The passenger car segment is forecast to experience the highest growth during 2012-2017. With improvement in economic conditions and increased vehicle production, good growth potential in the heavy truck tire segment is anticipated worldwide.
Lucintel, a leading global management consulting and market research firm, has conducted a competitive analysis of the top five global automotive tire manufacturing companies and presents its findings in "Top Five Global Automotive Tire Manufacturing Companies: Performance, Strategies, and Competitive Analysis". The report makes a comparative analysis of the subject companies, their geographic footprints, financial metrics, market performance, marketing and corporate strategies, and presents a SWOT analysis.
The global automotive tire industry holds significant opportunities for industry players due to strong demand for replacement tires and increasing sales of passenger vehicles in developing countries. In 2011, Bridgestone Corporation earned the highest gross profit among the top five competitors, while Michelin SCA achieved the highest net profit. Pirelli & C. SpA depicted the highest revenue growth followed by Continental AG.
Lucintel's analysts have identified that a loyal customer base and a strong global presence are the two major drivers of these companies. Stringent government standards and environmental legislation, in addition to the global financial slowdown, have affected the rubber and tire industry and could have a negative impact on the market dynamics.
In this study, Lucintel thoroughly profiles the following five companies with detailed competitive assessments:
- Bridgestone Corporation
- Michelin SCA
- The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
- Continental AG
- Pirelli & C. SpA
The study provides up-to-date information on the market share, profit margins, capabilities, and strategies of the leaders. The market research report helps current suppliers realistically assess their capabilities and strategies versus leading competitors. It is designed to provide executives with strategically significant competitor information, data, analysis, and insight, critical to the development and implementation of effective marketing and sales plans.
For a detailed table of contents and pricing information on this timely, insightful report, contact Lucintel at +1-972-636-5056 or via email at helpdesk(at)lucintel(dot)com. Lucintel provides cutting-edge decision support services Target Screening/ Merger & Acquisition that facilitate critical decisions with greater speed, insight, and cost efficiency


text:
Book Review: Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson
I won this book (along with 6 others) from A.M. Supinger's short story contest. (Thanks, A.M.!) I've heard rave reviews of this book before so I was excited to read it.
Blurb from Goodreads:
"Dead girl walking," the boys say in the halls.
"Tell us your secret," the girls whisper, one toilet to another.
I am that girl.
I am the space between my thighs, daylight shining through.
I am the bones they want, wired on a porcelain frame.
Lia and Cassie were best friends, wintergirls frozen in matchstick bodies. But now Cassie is dead. Lia's mother is busy saving other people's lives. Her father is away on business. Her step-mother is clueless. And the voice inside Lia's head keeps telling her to remain in control, stay strong, lose more, weigh less. If she keeps on going this way—thin, thinner, thinnest—maybe she'll disappear altogether.
In her most emotionally wrenching, lyrically written book since the National Book Award finalist Speak, best-selling author Laurie Halse Anderson explores one girl's chilling descent into the all-consuming vortex of anorexia.
About the Author:
Laurie Halse Anderson is the New York Times-bestselling author who writes for kids of all ages. Known for tackling tough subjects with humor and sensitivity, her work has earned numerous ALA and state awards. Two of her books, Speak and Chains, were National Book Award finalists. You can follow her on Twitter, or find her blog here.
The Book: YA Contemporary
I have to admit I was surprised at first by the stylistic construction the author employed to emphasize the protagonist's state of mind. By page three, I was fine. I actually think it renders the book a feeling of being not altogether there...a chopped up perception, a disoriented reflection of Lia's mental being. Which is what our protagonist, Lia, is: a hollow shell of a teenage girl who starves herself to fill up the void inside her. She's not altogether there. Her body image is bloatedly skewed, and her relationship with her family is so messed up she feels like a rag doll being passed from one person to the next.
When her ex-bestfriend Cassie dies in a motel room alone, Lia's downward spiral becomes inevitable. Even though her mom, a heart transplant surgeon always too busy for her, and her dad and his new wife/stepmom, genuinely wants Lia to get better, Lia continues to deceive them by sewing quarters in her weighing robe and appearing to be the perfect, calm daughter as the pounds melt off of her. Lia also begins to see Cassie haunting her, waiting for her to die so they can be together again.
Ms. Anderson's lyrical prose reflects Lia's morbid thoughts. I thought it was really well done and not over the top at all. It is haunting and sad and beautiful at once. It is an insider's peek at what could possibly go through an anorexic person's head. I've read other reviews where someone complained the protagonist was too egoistic to be likable. Too selfish, too self-absorbed. But that's why the author nailed it--people who suffer from such disorders have a distorted sense of reality.
Very well written for a sensitive subject. I give the author a big kudos for tackling such a painful and complex character, for letting us dive into the ugly truth of anorexia and bulimia, and for opening doors to others who may be going through these same experiences. Highly recommended.
Monday, November 14, 2011
book review,
Why I Recommend
16 comments:
- Sarah Pearson said...
A very tough subject to tackle. It's good to hear that she seems to have done it justice.
- November 14, 2011 at 3:18 PM
- i'm erin. said...
This book is so haunting! Good review. it's harder for me to stomach topics like this, but I think it's good to have it out there.
- November 14, 2011 at 5:54 PM
- Mandie Baxter said...
I have this book and can't wait to read it! I've read Twisted and Speak by her as well and loved them. Twisted is such a great male POV. Great review and congrats on the win!
- November 14, 2011 at 8:45 PM
- Rachna Chhabria said...
This book sounds like it will come as an eye opener to people who want to kill themselves by eating less and less, all for the sake of getting that desired stick-thin figure.
- November 15, 2011 at 8:49 AM
- Anita Grace Howard said...
I've always been a fan of her prose. This one needs to go on my TBR pile. Thanks for the lovely review, sparkle queen!
- November 16, 2011 at 8:25 AM
- Bethany C. said...
Wow--Laurie tackled a difficult subject, and based on your sparkly review, did a great job of it. Like Anita, this is going on my TBR list :)
- November 16, 2011 at 8:30 PM
- J. A. Bennett said...
That sounds amazing! I'll have to grab a copy :)
- November 17, 2011 at 9:38 AM
- Anonymous said...
Thoughtful review. I'll be the next in line. -kelly
- November 17, 2011 at 9:59 PM
- Jenny Phresh said...
I love the excerpt from this book--beautiful writing! Thanks for sharing this review. I want to check it out.
BTW I miss you and the #goatposse! I've been in a weird space (wish I could say b/c of writing) but I am coming back, soon, I swear. xo!
- November 18, 2011 at 1:09 PM
- Angela V. Cook said...
This sounds really good! I needs to get this on my TBR list also!! Though I'm a little worried I might not like the style of writing (if it is the way you say it is) :-/ I'm funny about stuff like that. Then again, if you were able to get used to it, maybe I can too ;o) I guess I won't know until I try it!
- November 18, 2011 at 7:36 PM
- Elizabeth said...
I love the notebook design.....so cool.
...................taking a look around.
- November 19, 2011 at 2:43 PM
- Peggy Eddleman said...
Great review! I know I couldn't ever tackle such a painful and complex thing. It always amazes me when authors do it well. And congrats on winning it!
- November 21, 2011 at 8:06 PM
- A.M.Supinger said...
I'm glad you liked it :) It's a tough topic and she handled it with her usual grace, but I'm so glad it's not sitting on my shelf anymore. Every time I see that book I think about how many girls suffer with similar problems, and it breaks my heart.
- November 22, 2011 at 8:07 AM
- Anonymous said...
I love Halse Anderson, but have been reluctant to pick up this book despite the kudos it continues to get.
I'm not sure why, as everytime I read another review of it, I'm compelled to read it. Yet when I get to the book store and actually hold it in my hand, I struggle.
Maybe someday I'll have the guts to read it.
Thanks for the honest review.
- November 22, 2011 at 10:55 AM
- Kimberly Krey said...
You've definitely got my interest on this one. I may have to check it out myself. As always, great post, my dear! :)
- November 22, 2011 at 9:50 PM
- Loraine said...
i like your review! Here's mine: http://lorxiebookreviews.blogspot.com/2012/06/wintergirls-by-laurie-halse-anderson.html Have a nice day! :)
- June 22, 2012 at 7:15 AM
- Precy Larkins
- I'm a YA writer who loves to read. Also a mom of 3. My life is crazy but always fun. :) I'm a member of The YA Club, a group blog about YA books. You can also find me blogging at: http://precylarkins.wordpress.com Represented by the lovely Julia A. Weber of J. A. Weber Literaturagentur GmbH. Thanks for stopping by! Email me: email@example.com
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text:
Rebuilding the Food Pyramid
by Jeanne Miller
If you're trying to figure out the healthiest way to eat, you may be feeling confused by the conflicting messages you've been hearing. Should you avoid fat and fill up on carbohydrates like bread, rice, and pasta, as the existing food pyramid advises? Should you avoid carbohydrates and eat mostly protein foods like meat, eggs, and cheese—no need to worry about fats—as some popular weight-loss diets recommend?
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) introduced its Food Guide Pyramid a dozen years ago to teach the public about nutrition. Its low-fat, high-carbohydrate message has done nothing to slow the steady increase in obesity in the United States that has so alarmed public health officials.
USDA Food Guide Pyramid
- Bread, Cereal, Rice & Pasta Group: 6—11 Servings
- Vegetable Group: 3—5 Servings
- Fruit Group: 2—4 Servings
- Milk, Yogurt & Cheese Group: 2—3 Servings
- Meat, Poultry, Fish, Dry Beans, Eggs & Nuts Group: 2—3 Servings
- Fats, Oils, & Sweets: Use Sparingly
A New Emphasis
At the Harvard School of Public Health, researchers say that the USDA's Food Guide Pyramid is outdated and fails to give us enough information to help us make wise choices. Good nutrition is not just a question of fat vs. carbohydrates. The researchers have taken apart the pyramid, block by block, and have built a new one in its place.
Harvard's Healthy Eating Pyramid reflects recent research into human nutrition and its effect on health. The Harvard structure rests on a base of daily exercise and weight control. Exercise is a key element of health. It's good for every system in our body. Another essential ingredient of health is staying at the right weight for your height. Consult your doctor or school nurse to find out what your healthy weight range is.
Harvard's Healthy Eating Pyramid
Good Fat and Bad Fat
At the very top of the USDA's Food Guide Pyramid, in the "Use Sparingly" category, are all fats and oils. Dr. Lilian Cheung, of the Harvard University Department of Nutrition, points out, "It implies that all fats are bad. There are some good fats."
There are big differences among saturated fats, trans-fats, and unsaturated fats. Saturated animal fats—those that are solid at room temperature (picture butter, lard, or the cooled fat left behind when beef is cooked)—are bad fats. They can clog arteries and lead to heart disease, stroke, and other problems. The food industry has created another kind of fat—trans-fat—by bubbling hydrogen through vegetable oil. This process, called hydrogenation, produces a solid fat that takes a long time to spoil. Manufacturers prize it for cookies, crackers, packaged snacks, and many other items that travel from factories to distant supermarket shelves. Fast-food restaurants use this hydrogenated vegetable fat for frying. Trans-fat, say the scientists at Harvard, is even more harmful to us than natural saturated fat.
Unsaturated fats, on the other hand, are good for your heart. These are the fats in most vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fish. Because of the health benefits of eating plant oils, the Harvard School of Public Health puts them close to the base of its structure, for daily consumption. Saturated fats, like those in red meat and butter, are at the very top, in the "Use Sparingly" category.
How Refined Is That Carbohydrate?
According to Dr. Cheung, the second big problem with the USDA Food Guide Pyramid is that it encourages eating up to 11 servings a day from the bread, cereal, rice, and pasta group at its base. "But it doesn't distinguish between whole grains and refined carbohydrates," she says. "And biologically, refined carbohydrates act similar to sugar."
Refining carbohydrates strips them of nutrients and fiber. In the course of turning wheat into white flour, mills crush the wheat grain and separate the starchy center from the oil- and vitamin-rich sprouting section (the germ) and from the fiber- and mineral-rich outer coat (the bran). What's left is nutritionally deficient carbohydrate powder. This white flour is the main ingredient of most bread, crackers, and pasta. White rice and the grains in many breakfast cereals have also lost their germ and their bran. Though manufacturers may add back some of the lost vitamins and minerals, the nutrient profile of the refined grain will never match that of the original.
Your digestive system quickly turns refined grain into the simple sugars it uses for fuel. If there's no immediate need for that fuel, your body rushes to remove these extra sugars from the bloodstream and store them in your cells for later use. This can leave the blood sugar level temporarily low, causing you to feel hungry. If you take this cue to eat again, you may easily overwhelm your body's carbohydrate storage capacity, and the remaining carbohydrates will be stored as fat. By contrast, whole grains break down slowly, increasing the blood sugar gradually.
The carbohydrates in fruits and vegetables exist in combination with fiber, which slows their digestion and avoids the blood-sugar roller coaster. In addition to vitamins and minerals, they contain phytochemicals, beneficial compounds that scientists have only begun to discover and categorize. Many of these phytonutrients are the ones that give color to the fruit or vegetable, so eating deeply colored plant products offers much more than eye appeal. The Harvard plan recommends eating vegetables in abundance and fruit two to three times a day. (Too quickly digested, potatoes are an exception to this rule, so the Harvard eating guide groups them with refined grains and sugar.)
Not All Protein Is Created Equal
The third big problem with the Food Guide Pyramid is in the protein category. Dr. Cheung says, "It lumps meat, eggs, nuts, and legumes all together. But, although they are all rich sources of protein, biologically they are different. We know that fatty meats—especially fatty red meats and processed meats—are not so healthy. They increase the risk of heart disease and cancer. But the kind of fat in fish and nuts and legumes actually protects against heart disease."
The Harvard guide puts nuts and legumes (peas and beans, including soy products) just above fruits and vegetables. Above those are other protein foods, such as fish, poultry, eggs, and non-fat or low-fat dairy products. Because of their saturated fat content, high-fat cuts of red meats (beef, pork, lamb) should not be a regular part of your diet.
What Should You Eat?
"The whole idea is to limit sugar, limit trans-fats, limit refined grains, and have plenty of fruits and vegetables in rainbow colors," Dr. Cheung says. "Look for products that are less refined, less manufactured, less processed. It's always better to have it fresh and whole." Her hope is that an educated younger generation can turn around this country's epidemic of obesity and eating-related diseases. Adopting the principles of the Harvard Healthy Eating Pyramid could be a major step in the right direction.
To complete this activity, you will need to print out the worksheet titled "Food Pyramids" (PDF file).
- What are the differences between the USDA Food Guide Pyramid and Harvard's Healthy Eating Pyramid?
[anno: The USDA pyramid does not make a distinction between good fats and bad fats, but the Harvard pyramid does. The USDA pyramid does not make a distinction between different kinds of grains, meat, and dairy products the way the Harvard pyramid does.]
- Print out the worksheet titled "Food Pyramids." Write down everything you eat for one day in each of the pyramids. Study the pyramids after you have filled in the foods. Are there differences between how balanced your diet is when you look at the foods you listed in the USDA pyramid versus the Harvard pyramid? Write a few sentences that describe how your diet is different depending on which pyramid you use.
[anno: Worksheets will vary but should include the student's food intake for one day. Food intake should be plotted in the USDA pyramid and then in the Harvard pyramid. Sentences should describe how well balanced the student's diet is on the USDA pyramid versus the Harvard pyramid.]


text:
Covering cosmetology fundamentals, 11 classic cuts and 9 colour techniques, while also providing students with the confidence to advise and educate salon clients, the cosmetology program available at our TONI&GUY Hairdressing Academy in Manteca, CA, produces graduates who are both salon- and state board-ready. We ensure that our students come away with a well-rounded skillset, an understanding of the hairdresser's role, confidence in providing customer service, and extremely marketable real-world salon experience.
Cosmetology Program Overview
- Financial Aid
- Program Details
- Tuition
Financial Aid - available to those who qualify
Accreditation - NACCAS (National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences)
FAFSA Code - 04221800
Program Type - Part-time & Full-time
Program Length - 46-53 weeks
Program Hours - 1,600
Student/Teacher Ratio - 12:1
Tuition - $16,000
More Info - Gainful Employment Disclosure
Cosmetology Program Options
At our TONI&GUY Hairdressing Academy in Manteca, there are two cosmetology program options available to aspiring hair professionals:
Five-day Cosmetology Program - Our traditional education track, the full-time cosmetology program requires students to attend 5 days per week (Tuesday through Saturday), 7 hours per day (8:30AM-4:00PM, with a 30-minute lunch break), and can be completed in as few as 46 weeks!
Three-day Cosmetology Program - Our newest offering, a three-day cosmetology program, is a variation of a part-time cosmetology program. This three-day cosmetology program requires students to attend 3 days per week (Tuesday through Thursday), 10 hours per day (8:30AM-7:00PM, with a 30-minute lunch break), and can be completed in as few as 53 weeks!
Start Dates
- Please call (209) 824-8000 for details
about upcoming start dates
TONI&GUY Cosmetology Kit
To assist you in your education, our cosmetology school offers a student kit loaded with learning materials and professional-quality gear. If it will help you become a beauty professional or make someone's hair look great, it's in the kit – everything from shears, hair brushes, and irons to mannequin heads, step-by-step tutorials, and so much more!
Our Cosmetology Classes
The small, structured cosmetology classes at our TONI&GUY Hairdressing Academy are the venue in which students discuss theory and begin developing their skills. They are taught to approach hairstyling and client work creatively by becoming technically proficient in both haircutting and hair colouring and learning how to combine techniques. In addition to these technical skills, soft skills (like client relations) are also part of the cosmetology curriculum. Our focus is to teach young hairdressers-in-training how to cut and colour hair so they are confident working behind a chair fulfilling any request of a salon client.
Cosmetology Career Preparation
At our TONI&GUY Hairdressing Academy, we know that real-world experience often leads to real-world success for our aspiring beauty professionals. This is why delivering hands-on hair services to salon clients in a true salon environment is such a large part of our cosmetology program.
Our cosmetology school graduates frequently and unsurprisingly go on to become successful salon hair stylists. However, with such a richly diverse (and ever-changing) industry, our graduates also hold positions as editorial stylists, mobile hairdressers, and runway/fashion show hairdressers, as well as hair colouring, hair cutting, and hair extension specialists. After gaining a few years of industry experience, some of our cosmetology school graduates have even moved on to become knowledgeable cosmetology instructors intent on mentoring the next generation of beauty professionals.


text:
Mayor Don Wesely today announced the establishment of a 189-acre wetland mitigation bank and interpretive area for the city of Lincoln at the northwest corner of North 98th Street and Cornhusker Highway. The city purchased the land for the project from the family of the late Jerome Warner, a longtime State Senator from Waverly.
The Mayor also accepted a $100,000 donation from Warner's children, Liz and Jamie Warner, as a memorial to Jerome's brother, Charles L. Warner, who passed away in June 1994. The donation will be used for the interpretive elements of the mitigation bank, which will be named the Charles L. Warner Interpretive Wetlands.
"The support and involvement of the Warner family has been integral to this project, and we appreciate them working with us on this investment in Lincoln's ecological future," Mayor Wesely said. "The wetland area will be part of an important entryway into the city and will play an important role in preserving a portion of the floodplain and floodway."
Charles L. Warner was a cattle rancher who was elected to the Board of Directors of the Lower Platte South Natural Resources District (NRD), on which he served for many years. "I know our uncle would be excited about the land going to this kind of use," said Liz Warner.
The city has been studying the need for a wetland mitigation bank and its possible location for several years. Allan Abbott, Director of the city Public Works and Utilities Department, said the city recognizes that some existing wetlands may be impacted as the city continues to grow and develop roads, utilities and other infrastructure.
"Any time we impact a wetland area, we need to mitigate that by creating or restoring additional wetland areas," Abbott said. "Establishing a wetland bank is a proactive solution that will allow for the creation of a single large wetland area."
Abbott said the city and Lancaster County will be able to apply "credits" from the established bank to compensate for the unavoidable loss of wetlands in the future. The bank will also prevent the temporary loss of wetlands that would otherwise occur during the mitigation process.
The city plans to create or restore up to 90 acres of saline and fresh water wetland at the site. Abbott said the ecological advantages of a wetland bank include higher quality wetlands with greater diversity, enhanced wildlife habitat and a greater likelihood of long-term success. He said a wetland bank is also more economical and cost-effective for the city.
In addition to the wetland mitigation bank, the city, the Lower Platte South NRD and the Warners are working to restore another 1.5 acres of saline wetlands in the area. Last summer, this project was awarded a $10,000 Five Star Restoration Program grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the National Association of Counties, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the Wildlife Habitat Council and the National Association of Service and Conservation Corps.
"The interpretive park will speak to both the natural and cultural history of Lincoln and Lancaster County," Wesely said. "Wetlands are an important part of our natural history, and the eastern saline wetlands that will be restored here are some of Nebraska's rarest natural communities."
Also located on the site are two pits excavated for the Burlington and Missouri Railroad in the late 1800s, which were used to fire clay to create ballast for the railroad. The ballast pits will be preserved and integrated into the interpretive park.
The city is working with the Corps of Engineers and the state to finalize details of the wetland mitigation bank. The Warner family is involved in developing the interpretive elements at the site, including a trail and boardwalk with educational materials about the natural and cultural history of the site. The city is working with the Lower Platte South NRD on a maintenance agreement for the wetlands.
Wesely said the development of the wetland mitigation bank is part of the city's larger environmental initiative which includes:
The city and county will also develop a natural resources data base during the Steven's Creek planning process and the review of the Comprehensive Plan. The data base will identify key environmental features, sensitive areas and the potential for a county-wide network of natural areas and open space.


text: The Virginia Legends Walk at 13th Street and Atlantic Avenue is the site for a regular visit from the First Lady of Jazz. Ella is an homage to the Virginia-born jazz impresario who crossed all kinds of personal and social barriers to become one of the most beloved singers of all time. This mini-concert is fully produced with set, lights, sound, a small combo of musicians, and a singer who looks and sounds so much like Ella that she has people lining up after the show to get her autograph! You'll hear hits like I'm In The Mood For Love, A Tisket – A Tasket, Blues Skies, and more. This half-hour tribute show is performed three times nightly and features the stories and songs from Ella's career that have made her a household name and a true Virginia Legend. See this production on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday evenings from July 5 through August 25. Three shows per night: 8:30, 9:15, and 10pm.