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Water SA
versión On-line ISSN 1816-7950
versión impresa ISSN 0378-4738
Water SA vol.35 no.3 Pretoria abr. 2009
Application of the contingent valuation method to estimate a recreational value for the freshwater inflows into the Kowie and the Kromme Estuaries
MC Sale*; SG Hosking and M Du Preez
Department of Economics, PO Box 77000, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, Port Elizabeth, 6031, South Africa
This paper assesses the amount recreational users are willing to pay to secure an increase in freshwater inflows into 2 South African estuaries, the Kowie and the Kromme. A questionnaire was administered to 150 respondents at each estuary site during the period December 2002 to January 2003. The values of freshwater inflows into the Kowie and the Kromme Estuaries were calculated at R0.072/m3 and R0.013/m3, respectively. Total WTP values were estimated at R938 296.59 and R974 019.20, respectively. A valuation function to predict willingness-to-pay was predicted using the Tobit model estimation of linear bid functions. Annual levies paid (consisting of fishing licences, boat registration fees, etc.), distance of current accommodation to estuary, number of household members, primary use of estuary (i.e. recreation or commercial), how informed the respondent was and investment in boats and vehicles were shown to be important predictors of willingness-to-pay in the case of the Kromme Estuary. Level of education, race of respondent, annual levies paid, investment in estuary access equipment and respondent status (i.e., visitor vs. non-visitor) were shown to be important predictors of willingness-to-pay in the case of the Kowie Estuary. An expectations validity assessment indicated that the estimates were credible.
Keywords: contingent valuation method, recreation, estuary, freshwater inflows
The future conservation status of many estuaries around the South African coastline is heavily dependent on adequate freshwater inflows (Lamberth and Turpie, 2003; Maree et al., 2003; Turpie et al., 2002; Hosking et al., 2002). Freshwater inflows into many South African estuaries are, however, being reduced due to uncontrolled alien tree and plant infestations, coupled with an ever-increasing human demand for freshwater (Lamberth and Turpie, 2003; Turpie et al., 2002). Insufficient freshwater flowing into estuaries leads to the partial loss of the environmental service flows supplied by them the relative availability of these service flows enables and/or promotes the occurrence of recreational activities (Adams, 2001). Consequently, the loss of environmental service flows has adverse economic consequences as the residential and holiday recreational appeal of the estuaries is diminished.
Two South African estuaries, namely the Kowie and the Kromme are suffering from a growing deficiency of freshwater inflow due to various forms of water abstraction (Adams, 2001; Lamberth and Turpie, 2003). The effect of freshwater abstraction has varying effects on different types of estuaries (Schalacher and Wooldridge, 1996; Whitfield and Wooldridge, 1994). The Kowie and Kromme Estuaries are classified as permanently open ones. The effects of water abstraction on these types of estuaries are as follows: a fall in riverine nutrient plants, increased salinity levels, reduced fish recruitment, increased sand shoal size and a bigger flood requirement (Hosking et al., 2004).
In terms of the Kowie Estuary, the mouth and lower reaches have been significantly developed and altered over time. One of the main problems experienced in the Kowie Estuary is the deposition and accumulation of sediment (Kowie Estuary Management Plan, 1999; Schumann, 2001; Hosking et al., 2004) due to inadequate freshwater inflows. This has been found to negatively interfere with the boating, fishing and birding activities that take place on the river and could negatively affect tourism (Kowie Estuary Management Plan, 1999; Wooldridge, 2003; Hosking et al., 2004).
The Kromme Estuary is considered to be freshwater starved (Scharler and Baird, 2005; Bate and Adams, 2000; Baird, 2003). Two major dams have been constructed in the catchment area of the Kromme Estuary, namely the Churchill Dam and the Mpofu Dam. These dams have the combined capacity of storing about 133% of the MAR of the Kromme River catchment area. Freshwater inflow into the Kromme Estuary is irregular and relatively low with a mean annual inflow rate of approximately 11 000 m3 (Hosking et al., 2004). Numerous small dams are also situated on the tributaries of the Kromme River and these tend to restrict the water flow. Due to the relatively low freshwater inflows experienced in the Kromme Estuary, fishing and birding activities are compromised and could adversely affect tourism.
The aims of this study were twofold:
To determine recreational estuary users' total willingness-to-pay for initiatives/actions that would increase the freshwater inflow into the Kowie and Kromme Estuaries so as to maintain or improve the environmental service flows provided by each estuary
To determine the recreational per cubic metre value of the freshwater inflow into the Kowie and Kromme Estuaries.
The study sites
Kowie Estuary
The Kowie Estuary (another estuary with similar characteristics is the Fish River Estuary and this is approximately 15 km away, by road) opens to the Indian Ocean at 33°36"S, 26°54"E, and is found midway between East London and Port Elizabeth, flowing through the town of Port Alfred. Port Alfred is the administrative capital of the Ndlambe Municipality (Thornton and Gibb, 2005). Data obtained from the 2001 Census indicate a reduction in employment in the agriculture, forestry and mining sectors. There has, however, been significant growth in the construction, manufacturing, real estate, social service and retail sectors. Growth in these sectors has been attributed to the rise in tourism in the area, prompting an increased demand for leisure properties, holiday accommodation and hospitality services (Thornton and Gibb, 2005).
The length of the Kowie River from the mouth to the source is approximately 70 km and the last 21 km of the river, leading into the Indian Ocean, is tidal and is regarded as estuarine (Kowie Estuary Management Plan, 1999; Heydorn and Grindley, 1982; Noble and Hemens, 1978). The lower reaches of the estuary are located within the town of Port Alfred. Road access to the estuary is considered to be good and there are approximately 25 public access points. The closest residential area is located on the estuary.
The catchment area of the Kowie River is approximately 769 km2 (Noble and Hemens, 1978). The Kowie River's upper catchment area is made up mostly of privately owned farms, which focus on the production of beef cattle (Cowley and Daniel, 2001). The main crop cultivation takes place on the floodplain.
The steep slopes along the upper to middle reaches of the river are mostly covered with indigenous vegetation. Alien tree species, including Hakea, Pinus spp., Acacia spp. and Eucalyptus spp. have, however, also invaded an area of roughly 23 263 ha (20.12%), which is estimated to cause runoff losses amounting to 24 x 106 m³/a (Chapman et al., 1998).
The estuary provides 21 km of navigable water and is mainly used for recreation activities, such as fishing, sailing, skiing and jet skiing (Kowie Estuary Management Plan, 1999; Adams, 2001). The estuary is also used as a harbour for commercial fishing boats, recreational boats and yachts. Subsistence fishing also occurs in the estuary (Kowie Estuary Management Plan, 1999). Many private waterfront homes are situated along the lower reaches of the estuary, particularly along the Western Bank. These homes often have jetties and slipways protruding into the main channel. These jetties, together with larger boats moored midstream, obstruct and limit the utilisation of the main channel (Heydorn and Grindley, 1982).
Over time, the mouth and lower reaches of the estuary have been significantly developed and altered. During the last century, the mouth of the estuary was canalised and infrastructural and residential development has taken place in and around the lower reaches of the estuary. A marina was established on the east side of the estuary, close to the mouth (Kowie Estuary Management Plan, 1999).
Although the Kowie River is considered to be perennial, the river flow can come to a halt for 2 to 3 months during abnormal drought conditions (Whitfield and Wooldridge, 1994). The Kowie River has a very swift run-down period resulting in a high flow over a very short duration (Heydorn and Grindley, 1982). Mean annual runoff is estimated at 23 x 106 m³ (Adams, 1991).
The Kromme Estuary
The Kromme Estuary opens into St. Francis Bay at 34°08"S: 24°51"E, and is located approximately 55 km west of Port Elizabeth. The Kromme Estuary supports many recreational activities, namely fishing, birding, bait collection, waterskiing, canoeing, boat cruisers, hiking and swimming (Adams, 2001). Tourism is seen as an important income generator in the area (Davies, 2009). The recent establishment of the second golf course in St Francis Bay (The Links) has also provided the area with much needed job creation (Davies, 2009).
The Kromme is classified as a permanently open estuary with a relatively undisturbed catchment area (Heymans, 1992). The total length of the Kromme River is approximately 95 km (Reddering and Esterhuysen, 1983). The last 14 km of the river, leading into the Indian Ocean, is tidal and is regarded as estuarine (Heymans, 1992). The estuary is considered to be one of the few relatively pristine systems in the country. Minimal industrial activity occurs in the catchment or in the estuary floodplain (Baird, 2003).
The catchment area is approximately 936 km2 (Baird, 2003) in size. Small agricultural and urban settlements are found in the catchment area. The main agricultural activities include livestock farming and grain cultivation (Hosking et al., 2004). The catchment area comprises of 11.73 km2 of natural forest, 79.6 km2 of fynbos and private farmland (Heymans, 1992). However, 6.50% of the catchment area is invaded by alien trees, which reduces annual water runoff by about 27.90 x 106 m³/a (Chapman et al., 1998).
A marina canal system was constructed in a marshy area at the estuary mouth, and has undergone numerous expansions over the years in order to accommodate the construction of more houses (Crosby, 1993). Numerous small dams are also situated on the tributaries of the Kromme River, which restrict the water flow. The dams have a combined storage capacity of approximately 133% of the MAR of the Kromme River catchment (Baird, 2003). Other in-stream obstructions include several minor crossings, as well as the N2 national road. Annual rainfall varies between 700 mm and 1 200 mm (Baird, 2003). Freshwater inflow into the Kromme Estuary is irregular and relatively low, with a mean annual flow rate of about 11 000 m³. The system is considered to be freshwater starved (Baird, 2003).
Method and data
The contingent valuation method
The value of the recreational services provided by an estuary is modelled through the effects of a freshwater inflow quantity change. In principle, there are several methods by which these values can be inferred, for instance, the hedonic price method and the travel cost method. Because the contingent valuation method (CVM) is the most amenable to fine-tuning, it was preferred in this study. It can be used in the case of estuaries to infer economic values for the services they provide (Hosking et al., 2004). The premise of this study is that individuals who use the environmental services provided by estuaries for recreational purposes are willing to pay to increase the freshwater inflows into them so as to maintain or improve the said services. Accordingly, respondents were asked the maximum amount they would be willing to pay for a project that would secure an increase in freshwater inflows into the estuary. The willingness-to-pay welfare measure was chosen for the purposes of this study instead of the willingness-to-accept one, since the former measure is more appropriate in cases where desired quality or quantity increases would require higher payment levels (see Mitchell and Carson, 1990). A Tobit Model was fitted to the data collected for each estuary in order to generate a predictive WTP model. The Tobit Model is commonly used in CVM studies to describe the relationship between WTP (i.e., the dependent variable) which is non-negative, and a vector of explanatory variables. The use of the ordinary least method (OLS) would, in this case, produce negative predicted WTP values which is incorrect from a theoretical perspective.
Questionnaire and survey
Every attempt was made in this study to adhere to the guidelines for the application of the CVM, recommended in the Arrow et al. (1993) report. These attempts are described below:
The survey was conducted via personal interviews
The pre-coded questionnaire, used as the survey instrument, was pre-tested during a pilot survey (after the pilot study the questionnaire was simplified and improved)
A scenario was formulated to make respondents aware of the positive changes an increase in freshwater inflows would have on the estuary (the good to be valued was accurately described). The required increase in inflows to secure positive changes for each estuary was estimated by a panel of estuarine specialists. The panel was convened, as part of an ongoing investigation into the value of freshwater inflows into South African estuaries, under the auspices of the Water Research Commission and included the following members: T Wooldridge, P Huizinga, A Whitfield and J Adams. The scenario described to the respondent in the case of the Kowie Estuary was as follows: 'What levy per year are you willing to pay (including what you already do pay) for a project to increase the river water inflow (due to urban and agricultural abstraction or reduced flows through forestry or vegetation changes) into the estuary of 56% over what currently flows into the estuary? Another way of seeing this is WTP to increase the proportion of MAR inflow into the estuary from 34% to 80%.'
The levy would be collected by the local authority from all users who derive benefit directly or indirectly, including those providing visitors access to the Kowie Estuary. This levy would be collected in rates and user fees to those accessing the water. It would be used to fund the 'purchase' of 13 x 106 m3 of water, i.e., enough freshwater inflow to secure the changes in estuary services indicated." The positive changes were then described to the respondent. The same scenario was described to users of the Kromme Estuary, with the applicable scientific data.
In the case of the Kowie Estuary, the willingness-to-pay question was based upon a specified increase of 56% of current freshwater inflow (i.e. a 13 x 106 m3 increase), which would positively alter the estuary's functioning, and as a result lead to a 25% increase in the availability of angling fish, mudprawn and birdlife.
The willingness-to-pay question in the case of the Kromme Estuary was based upon a specified increase of 812% of current freshwater inflow (i.e. a 75.5 x 106 m3 increase), which would positively alter the functioning of the estuary, and as a result lead to a 25% increase in the availability of angling fish, mudprawn and birdlife. In both cases, the above scientific information was explained to the respondent.
A willingness-to-pay welfare measure was employed in the study. The payment card question format, showing annual rand willingness-to-pay options ranging from R0 to R1 001+, was used to elicit the respondent's willingness-to-pay (Frazer and Lawley, 2000). This bidding format was used because it is not subject to starting-point biases. It should, however, be noted that the use of absolute values in the payment card instead of R/m3 values could lead to an underestimation of the value of freshwater inflow. The listed range of rand options were selected in accordance with the characteristic financial outlays made by respondents on other publicly provided services.
Non-responses were zero (upon data validation, unusable responses were discovered and discarded).
Respondents were reminded of the substitute estuaries available, as well as of the fact that they would have to make a monetary sacrifice in order to make a payment (respondents face a budget constraint). This was done in an attempt to reduce mental account bias .
An annual user levy was used as the payment (bid) vehicle. Respondents were told that the same levy would be charged to residents and tourists.
Finally, a follow-up question on zero responses to the willingness-to-pay one was also included in the questionnaire - the respondent was asked for his or her reasons for providing a zero response.
The questionnaire was also prepared to obtain information on: the predominant use of the estuary; whether the respondent was a visitor or resident; whether the respondent made a living out of the estuary; the frequency of estuary use; the respondent's knowledge about the estuary; the different attributes and activities of the estuary; how far away from the estuary the respondent lived; the respondent's current cost of using the estuary; the value of the respondent's equipment that was used to access the estuary services; and personal information about the respondent, including race, level of education, level of income and gender.
Preliminary target population estimates were generated from 2 sources: first, GIS census data on the population living within 10 km of the estuary mouths, and second, interviews with local authorities on the user population. These estimates were later revised based on additional information gained during the administration of the surveys. The estimates of the number of user households (i.e., target population) for the Kowie and Kromme Estuaries were 3 234 and 3 200, respectively. During the surveys, a questionnaire was administered to 150 respondents (this size was the maximum that could be surveyed with the budget available) at each estuary site during the period stretching from December 2002 to January 2003. A simple random sampling technique was employed. This period was chosen so as to obtain a suitable mix of visitors and permanent resident users. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with the respondents by one trained enumerator at each estuary. The interviewers read the questions from the survey instrument to the respondents upon which the respondents' answers were recorded on the questionnaire by the interviewer. In the case of the Kowie Estuary 58% of the respondents were visitors and 42% were residents and in the case of the Kromme Estuary, 46% were visitors and 54% were residents.
The sample sizes were calculated using the equation below:
n is the required sample size
N is the target population size
e is the desired level of precision
The target population size was taken to be the total number of households for each estuary (i.e. 3 200 for the Kromme and 3 234 for the Kowie) and the desired level of precision was set equal to 8%. This level of precision ensures representivity from the selected population, because the generally accepted level of precision for representative samples is 10% or less (Fink, 2003). Accordingly, the sample sizes were estimated to be 149 respondents for both estuaries - expressed as a percentage of the target population for the Kowie and Kromme surveys the sample size was 4.64% and 4.69%, respectively.
The valid response rate for the Kromme Estuary was 100% (150 questionnaires). The response rate for the Kowie Estuary was 67% (100 questionnaires) the reason for this low response rate was that many of the respondents were reluctant to provide critical information, specifically annual pre-tax income.
Characteristics of respondents
It is evident from the study that the Kowie and the Kromme Estuaries are used mainly for recreational purposes. Table 1 provides a summary of the socio-economic profiles of the sample of households surveyed at the two estuaries in question.
The socio-economic profile of the Kowie respondents broadly corresponds to that of the Kromme respondents. The only large disparity is in annual pre-tax income earned.
Freshwater inflows and willingness-to-pay
Table 2 below summarises the willingness-to-pay bids for projects that will secure increased freshwater inflows into the Kowie and the Kromme Estuaries.
From the data in the above table, a weighted average WTP value was calculated for the Kowie and the Kromme Estuaries. These values were R198 and R265, respectively.
The predicated median WTP values used for aggregation purposes were derived by applying the Tobit Model to a predictive WTP function. These values are described in Tables 3 and 4. Of those respondents questioned at the Kowie and Kromme Estuaries respectively, 17% and 28.7% submitted zero willingness-to-pay bids and these were deemed to be protest bids. The protest bids were retained for analysis purposes as it is statistically incorrect to exclude them. Sample selection bias, as a result of the purposeful omission of zero bids, may cause one or both of the following consequences: first, the empirical analysis of the valuation function may produce inconsistent parameter estimates, and second, the calculated benefit measures and, thus, the total values derived may also be biased. One per cent of the respondents for the Kowie Estuary had a willingness-to-pay bid in excess of R4 000. These responses were treated as outliers and were omitted. None of the respondents for the Kromme Estuary provided excessively large bids.
A chi-square test for significance was conducted to test whether visitors and residents provided significantly different WTP values. The fact that the null hypothesis holds in the chi-square test suggests that there are no significant differences in terms of the WTP figures provided by residents and visitors.
Willingness-to-pay functions
A Tobit Model was fitted to the data collected for each estuary in order to generate predictive models of willingness-to-pay (WTP). As WTP is a censored dependent variable, the ordinary least squares (OLS) method cannot be applied in this instance. In the case of a censored dependent variable the OLS method will predict negative WTP values which are incorrect from a theoretical point of view. Some argue that when R2 values for valuation functions are less than 15% the credibility of the predictive model is of questionable use (Mitchell & Carson, 1990).
Predictors which did not offer sufficient statistical significance were omitted from the valuation functions. The results for the Kowie and Kromme Estuaries respectively, are documented below in Tables 3 and 4.
The signs of all the coefficients, shown in Table 3 above, are in accord with predictions. It can be deduced from Table 3 that for every extra year of education completed, willingness-to-pay increases by approximately R50. Worth of vehicles and boats and levies are positively correlated to willingness-to-pay - for each additional R1 000 increase in worth of vehicles and boats, willingness-to-pay increases by R1. For every additional rand paid in annual levies, willingness-to-pay increases by approximately R0.45. For every additional visitor, willingness-to-pay decreases by R210.
For every additional rand paid in annual levies to estuary services, willingness-to-pay increases by approximately R0.91. It was found that the worth of vehicles and boats was highly statistically significant, but has only a small effect on willingness to pay - for every R1 000 increase in the current value of vehicle and boats, WTP increases by R1. People who are well informed on estuarine ecology were willing to pay R126 more than less knowledgeable respondents. WTP also increased by R47 for each additional family member making use of the estuary.
Recreational estuary users' median willingness-to-pay
The predictive WTP equations for the Kowie and Kromme Estuaries (see Tables 3 and 4 above) are provided below in Eqs. (1) and (2), respectively:
When the median values (obtained from the sample data) are substituted into Eqs. (1) and (2) above, the predicted median WTP values for the Kowie and Kromme Estuaries are R290.14 and R304.38, respectively.
The recreational value of the freshwater inflows
Two recreational values of the freshwater inflows into the Kowie and Kromme Estuaries are reported here: one showing what the entire visiting population is prepared to pay per annum for increased freshwater inflows, and another showing the R/m3 value of water per annum.
The total willingness-to-pay (TWTP) for changes to estuary services for the Kowie and Kromme Estuaries (see Table 5 below) was calculated as the products of the predicted median WTP per annum and the estimated number of households.
In total, the populations visiting the Kowie and Kromme Estuaries are willing to pay R938 296.59 and R974 019.20/a, respectively, for a positive change in freshwater inflows (i.e. a 13 x 106 m3 change in the case of the Kowie Estuary, and a 75.5 x 106 m3 change in the case of the Kromme Estuary).
The per cubic metre per annum rand value of water is the TWTP divided by the change in inflow (m³) (see Table 5) required for each selected estuary, in order to secure the previously mentioned positive recreational changes. This information is presented in Table 6 below.
It is concluded that the WTP per cubic metre per annum for freshwater for the Kowie and the Kromme Estuaries are R0.072 and R0.013, respectively. These WTP values represent how much could be charged for delivering the required freshwater inflows. These marginal values should be compared with marginal cost information in order to guide the allocation of freshwater inflows into the respective estuaries. This would allow for the establishment of an optimum inflow in order to facilitate sound water resource management.
It is also useful to compare the recreational values in Table 6 with the raw water tariffs in the applicable water management area. Table 7 provides this information in R/m3, within the Fish to Tsitsikamma water management area, which incorporates the Kowie and the Kromme estuaries. The recreational values reported in Table 6 are considerably lower than the raw water tariffs presented in Table 7, thus implying that a higher value is placed on water for domestic/industrial, agriculture and forestry use.
The premise of this study was that individuals who use the environmental services provided by estuaries for recreational purposes are willing to pay to increase the freshwater inflows into them so as to maintain or improve these services. The survey conformed to most of the guidelines suggested by Arrow et al. (1993), and a conservative payment/bid elicitation approach was adopted. The models selected for the purpose of estimation used annual levies paid and investment in vehicles and boats inter alia, to predict WTP for inflows into the Kromme Estuary, and level of education, annual levies paid, investment in estuary access equipment and respondent status (visitor vs. non-visitor) to predict WTP for inflows into the Kowie Estuary. The paper finds that the recreational value of freshwater inflows into the Kowie and the Kromme Estauries respectively, was R0.072/m³ and R0.013/m³ in the year 2002. These marginal values still need to be compared with marginal cost information in order to guide the allocation of freshwater inflows into the respective estuaries (Hosking, 2008).
The financial support and advice of the relevant Water Research Commission Project No K5/1413 Reference Group are gratefully acknowledged.
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Received September 2008; accepted in revised form 24 March 2009.
* To whom all correspondence should be addressed.
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Appendix : Example of questionnaire used in the study


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Martin Luther King, Jr.
Martin Luther King, Jr., 1929–68, American clergyman and civil-rights leader, b. Atlanta, Ga., grad. Morehouse College (B.A., 1948), Crozer Theological Seminary (B.D., 1951), Boston Univ. (Ph.D., 1955). The son of the pastor of the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, King became (1954) minister of the Dexter Ave. Baptist Church in Montgomery, Ala. He led the black boycott (1955–56) of segregated city bus lines and in 1956 gained a major victory and prestige as a civil-rights leader when Montgomery buses began to operate on a desegregated basis.
King organized the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), which gave him a base to pursue further civil-rights activities, first in the South and later nationwide. His philosophy of nonviolent resistance led to his arrest on numerous occasions in the 1950s and 60s. His campaigns had mixed success, but the protest he led in Birmingham, Ala., in 1963 brought him worldwide attention. He spearheaded the Aug., 1963, March on Washington, which brought together more than 200,000 people. The protests he led helped to assure the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the year he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. The following year King and the SCLC led a campaign for African-American voter registration centered on Selma, Ala. A nonviolent march from Selma to Montgomery was attacked by police who beat and teargassed the protestors, but it ultimately succeeded on the third try when the National Guard and federal troops were mobilized. The events in Selma provoked national outrage, and months later aroused public opinion did much to precipitate passage of the 1965 Voting Rights Act.
King's leadership in the civil-rights movement was challenged in the mid-1960s as others grew more militant. His interests, however, widened from civil rights to include criticism of the Vietnam War and a deeper concern over poverty. His plans for a Poor People's March to Washington were interrupted (1968) for a trip to Memphis, Tenn., in support of striking sanitation workers. On Apr. 4, 1968, he was shot and killed as he stood on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel (since 1991 a civil-rights museum).
James Earl Ray, a career criminal, pleaded guilty to the murder and was convicted, but he soon recanted, claiming he was duped into his plea. Ray's conviction was subsequently upheld, but he eventually received support from members of King's family, who believed King to have been the victim of a conspiracy. Ray died in prison in 1998. In a jury trial in Memphis in 1999 the King family won a wrongful-death judgment against Loyd Jowers, who claimed (1993) that he had arranged the killing for a Mafia figure. Many experts, however, were unconvinced by the verdict, and in 2000, after an 18-month investigation, the Justice Dept. discredited Jowers and concluded that there was no evidence of an assassination plot.
King wrote Stride toward Freedom (1958), Why We Can't Wait (1964), and Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community? (1967). His birthday is a national holiday, celebrated on the third Monday in January. King's wife, Coretta Scott King, carried on various aspects of his work until her death in 2006. She also wrote My Life with Martin Luther King, Jr. (1969, rev. ed. 1993).
See biographies by K. L. Smith and I. G. Zepp, Jr. (1974), S. Oates (1982), M. Frady (2001), and D. L. Lewis (3d ed. 2012); D. J. Garrow, Bearing the Cross (1986); M. E. Dyson, I May Not Get There with You (2000); S. Burns, To the Mountaintop (2004); F. Sunnemark, Ring Out Freedom! (2004); T. Branch, America in the King Years (3 vol., 1988–2006).

subset: commoncrawl


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The MP 204 is an electronic motor protector, designed for the protection of an asynchronous motor or a pump.
The motor protector consists of:
- A cabinet incorporating instrument transformers and electronics
- A control panel with operating buttons and display for reading data.
The MP 204 operates with two sets of limits:
- A set of warning limits
- A set of trip limits.
The MP 204 motor protection unit was developed to bring you pump protection that is as simple to use as it is efficient. Pump specialists crammed it full of all the protection features you need – but kept it easy to install, set up, and use.
The MP 204 monitors the following parameters:
- Insulation resistance before start-up
- Temperature (Tempcon, Pt sensor and PTC/thermal switch)
- Overload/underload
- Overvoltage/undervoltage
- Phase sequence
- Phase missing
- Power factor
- Power consumption
- Harmonic distortion
- Run and start capacitor (single-phase)
- Operating hours and number of starts.
- Easy installation
- Simple to set up in just two minutes
- Trouble-free operation
Case Story, Loosdrecht
Grundfos and Vitens come together to find new energy savings underground.
Sales office
Contact us
Select country to contact your local sales company
Service center
Contact us
Select country to contact your local service center


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Hi, my program reads out of a textfile containing about 20 hockey players. At the beginning of the program, the user is given the option to sort by name, rating, club or position. No matter what I press, I always get a nullpointerexception error. This never happened before and the program works fine on my friends computer, it also used to work fine on mine and then I randomly got this error. What do I do to fix this?
This is what is says in the bluej thingy
at java.lang.String$CaseInsensitiveComparator.compare (String.java:1217)
at java.lang.String$CaseInsensitiveComparator.compare (String.java:1211)
at java.lang.String.compareToIgnoreCase(String.java:1 258)
at FINAL.sort(FINAL.java:206)
at FINAL.options(FINAL.java:48)
at FINAL.main(FINAL.java:41)


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From the Board Room to the Living Room
Communicate with Skill for Positive Outcomes
Create win/win situations
Powerful communication tactics for positive outcomes
In From the Board Room to the Living Room, Training director David Hiatt introduces a how-to communication guide on using sales and negotiation strategies when looking to improve relationships, deepen conversations and achieve more positive outcomes.
The definitive resource for personal and professional communication
Identify the most common obstacles to effective communication and how to overcome them.
Improve interactions with family, friends, co-workers, customers, and neighbors.
Improve personal and professional relationships, deepen conversations, move past drama and games, and achieve more positive outcomes.
"From the Board Room to the Living Room provides a great bridge for those who have honed their communication skills for their jobs but have never really thought to apply those skills in their personal lives."
For every industry and every channel
Whether you're new to Sandler concepts or a Sandler expert, there's no better time to learn effective communication techniques that you can apply both at home and at the workplace.
How can you use sales and negotiation strategies to improve relationships, deepen conversations and achieve more positive outcomes?
To find out, download this FREE sample chapter from Dave Hiatt's breakthrough book From the Board Room to the Living Room.
David Hiatt
About the Author
David Hiatt plays an important role in Sandler's worldwide organization and is recognized internationally as a business development expert specializing in executive sales consulting and sales productivity training. A dynamic, enthusiastic speaker he informs, entertains, and motivates leadership and rank-and-file sales teams to achieve their full potential. David holds both a bachelor's and master's degree in Communications.


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17-year-old Helena Muffly wrote exactly 100 years ago today:
Thursday, August 8, 1912: Hardly worth while and not worth the effort.
Her middle-aged granddaughter's comments 100 years later:
Since Grandma didn't have much to say a hundred years ago today, I'm again going to go off on a tangent. I'm always intrigued by what happened to the friends that Grandma mentioned in the diary.
I recently found a picture of one friend, Rachel Oakes, when she was an elderly woman. (She's the one on the left.) It was taken in 1978 at a Red Hill School reunion. Red Hill School was a one-room school located at the southern end of McEwensville.
According to the History of the McEwensville Schools, Rachel taught at Red Hill School during the 1909-10 school year. Later, during the 1910-11 and 1911-12 school years, she was the primary school teacher at McEwensville School. I suppose that it was considered more prestigious to teach at the larger McEwensville School.
Rachel must have been a few years older than Grandma and her sister Ruth. (Ruth graduated from high school in 1911—and Grandma graduated in 1913.)
Note that the article mentions Ruth Gauger—that was Grandma's sister Ruth's married name. According to the History of the McEwensville Schools, Ruth taught at Red Hill School during the 1914-15 school year (and her other sister Besse taught there from 1906-09).


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The greatest player in the history of the New York Jets is once again ripping the current makeup of the Jets.
This time, Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Namath told The Jets Blog Podcast that under owner Woody Johnson, the team's primary concern has become selling personal seat licenses, rather than winning, and as a result Johnson just wants the Jets to make offseason moves that will generate publicity — like trading for Tim Tebow — as opposed to moves that will build the foundation of a strong team.
"I think the focus is changed, subtly," Namath said, via ESPN.com. "It's more toward grabbing headlines, and everything starts at the top. And you can go back to when the seat licenses were initiated, how we started conducting things. I don't think winning has been put at the top of the board. Winning headlines has replaced that."
Of course, the best way to sell tickets would be to win a Super Bowl. So Johnson surely wants to see his team win (even if it would only be a consolation prize for him after his top priority of getting Mitt Romney elected didn't work out). But Namath believes that the Jets have picked players who get short-term attention, rather than players who will be part of a long-term goal of winning the Super Bowl.
"We seem to have regressed with talent, the last two years at least, the last three years," he said. "I don't know who's picking the player . . . I'm disappointed in the talent we have, and I think you have to start looking at who's doing the picking and why."
Namath isn't the only one who is looking at the person who's doing the picking, Jets G.M. Mike Tannenbaum, and asking why he hasn't built a better team. A big question for the future of the franchise is whether Johnson will find someone new to pick the players next year.


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A Vegan Green Tea Smoothie That's Great for Breakfast or Dessert
Get the Recipe
I've long been a fan of matcha, the Japanese green tea powder that's fragrant and intensely flavored. On its own, the vibrant green powder is quite savory, but when incorporated into desserts such as French macarons, ice cream and even chocolate, it brings a wonderful depth that helps keep these dishes from slipping into too-sweet territory.
I was curious how matcha would work in one of my many breakfast smoothies, so I followed the lead of pastry chefs and matched the green tea powder with a sweet ingredient—banana—and blended the drink with soy milk, which pairs deliciously with green tea in lattes and bubble teas.
I was delighted with how the smoothie turned out. It's ultracreamy, thanks to the rich soymilk and frozen banana (the freezer is a handy place to store ripe bananas anyway.) The flavor is quite complex, with the matcha powder lending a subtle hint of umami that doesn't often show up in sweet drinks. Pale green and frothy, the smoothie was so delicious that I've been craving it at night, as dessert, rather than in the morning. Whether you choose to whip up this smoothie at 9 a.m. or 9 p.m., you can't go wrong.
Get the Recipe
All products linked here have been independently selected by our editors. We may earn a commission on purchases, as described in our affiliate policy.


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LaShonda Matlock, NBC Chicago Street Team
Jay-Z may be performing at the United Center but the after-party is definitely at The Shrine!
Hennessy Black & Rich Paul Presents THE BLACKOUT Thursday March 18th, at The Shrine (2109 South Wabash). Celebrities expected to attend THE BLACKOUT including LeBron James will be Jay – Z, Trey Songz, Young Jeezy, Michael Jordan, Memphis Bleek, Shaquille O'Neal, Donte Whitner (Buffalo Bills), Ted Ginn Jr. (Miami Dolphins), Jerry Azumah, Hustle Simmons, Mark Anderson, Fred Carter (Minnesota Vikings), Devin Hester and WGCI's Leon Rogers.
This is don't miss party people so come and enjoy The Blackout!
The Blackout Teaser from MCM on Vimeo.
March 18th
The Shrine
2109 South Wabash


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Strake Jesuit capped off a dominating run through the UIL Region III-5A boys soccer tournament with a 2-0 win over Fort Bend Clements Saturday at Abshier Stadium, winning the regional championship and advancing to the state tournament next week in Georgetown. Strake will be joined in Georgetown by The Woodlands (Region II-5A) and Kingwood Park (Region III-4A) on the boys side and Katy Seven Lakes (Region III-5A) and The Woodlands (Region II-5A) in girls action.
The Region III boys final Saturday started an hour late after the girls final went to a shootout, but Strake was in control most of the game. The Crusaders boast two Dynamo Academy standouts, including injured forward Abe Matamoros - who nevertheless donned a uniform and participated in warmups - and Pat Wall, the Academy's U-18 goalkeeper who starts as a centerback for Strake.
Strake (26-0-1), which beat Clear Lake 3-1 in Friday night's semifinals, took the lead in the 22nd minute. A long throw-in from Michael Davidson was not cleared, and right midfielder Tarek Darouiche played the ball back into the box, where center midfielder Beau Grenier curled a right-footed shot to the top right corner for a deserved lead.
The best chance of the first half for Clements (24-2) came when forward Cooper Till used some nifty dribbling moves to create space in the midfield, then unleashed a long, left-footed shot that Strake's Jason Taffet had to tip around the post for a corner kick.
In the second half, after several consecutive chippy plays by Clements, Strake all but put the game away in the 54th minute. Wall floated in a free kick, and the 6-foot-4 Davidson rose high to nod the ball down at the near post, where it softly bounced over the dive of unfortunate Clements goalkeeper Akshay Raju.
Strake had two more good scoring chances - a long-range free kick that Davidson whistled high and a brilliant move by Grenier out of the corner that set up a failed shooting attempt, while Clements' best opportunity came in the 68th minute when Zach Wolf laid the ball off for Andy McDaniel arriving in the penalty area, but his shot skimmed the top of the crossbar.
Strake used junior Taylor Fletcher to shadow Wolf throughout the game, and Clements' passive back line and short bench were no match for the more fluid Crusaders, although they again relied on set pieces for both goals. Strake also showed class in victory, as both Davidson and Wall consoled the despondent Raju after the final whistle.
Wall, Matamoros, and Strake head to the state tournament, to be joined by Dynamo Academy teammates Conner Mowery and Cody Schlegel and their The Woodlands squad, which topped Round Rock Westwood in a shootout in the Region II-5A final Saturday. Kingwood Park, another unbeaten team, rallied to beat Waco University 4-2 in the Region III-4A final Saturday. Sophomore forward Isaiah Noreiga has missed the Panthers' run while competing for the Dynamo Academy in the Dallas Cup.
The 5A semifinals will be held on Thursday, with the 4A semifinals on Friday and all four finals on Saturday. All of the Houston area's regional champion soccer teams, boys and girls, will be honored at the Dynamo's April 17 game against Chivas USA.
Strake Jesuit vs. Fort Bend Clements
April 3, 2010 – Abshier Stadium, Deer Park
UIL 5A Region III final
Scoring Summary:
SJ -- Beau Grenier (Tarek Darouiche) 22
SJ -- Michael Davidson (Pat Wall) 54
Strake Jesuit -- Jason Taffet, Robert Greenberg, Pat Wall, Taylor Fletcher, Eric Lahart, Tarek Darouiche, Michael Davidson, Beau Grenier, Jamie Garcia-Prats, Robbe Tarver, Kyle Ruck.
Substitutes: Sami Darouiche, Chris Seitz, Beck DeSpain, Kenny Lahart, Jordan Reilly.
Fort Bend Clements -- Akshay Raju, Brandon Kwan, Chandler Mott, Mitch Matthews, Michael Kwan, Danny Austgen, Matty Reed, Andy McDaniel, Brian Heitzer, Cooper Till, Zach Wolf.
Substitutes: Cody Amaris, Ali El Saadi, Conner Murphy, Andrew Herzog.
Misconduct Summary:
SJ -- Chris Seitz (caution) 33
Clem -- Matty Reed (caution) 51
Clem -- Chandler Mott (caution) 54
All statistics contained in this boxscore are unofficial


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A high frame rate ensures the capture of fast-moving images that cameras with slower frame rates simply blur out. So Casio has expanded its Exilim range with a super speedy snapper.
Casio's EX-FH20: snaps 40f/s burst-mode stills and 1000f/s videos
The EX-FH20 captures still images in rapid fire burst mode at up to 40 shots a second, and videos at a maximum of 1000f/s. It's worth noting that when you're notching up 40f/s still snaps, the 9.1-megapixel camera suddenly lowers itself to a seven-megapixel snapper.
The camera is 9.1-megapixels, most of the time...
Should you want to record, say, a water balloon mid-burst then you can choose between a 1000, 420, 210 or 30f/s video shooting mode. But it's also worth noting that 30f/s is the only video speed at which the camera can capture 1280 × 720 HD quality video.
The camera has a maximum ISO sensitivity of 1600 and comes as standard with a 26mm wide angle zoom lens, allowing for a 20x optical zoom.
A YouTube video capture mode's included
The EX-FH20 has the same YouTube capture mode that's been featured on existing Exilim cameras, such as the EX-Z150. All the standard image enhancement features are also included, such as anti-shake and 18 pre-set shooting modes.
Content's recorded onto SD memory cards and although there's no HDMI port for linking the camera into your telly, a USB port does feature. Images and video can be viewed on the camera's 3in LCD.
Casio's EX-FH20 will be available in the UK next month for £400 ($710/€500).


text:
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We offer worldwide shipping. Shop our site in your selected currency and you will see your complete order total, including shipping fees, customs tariffs and taxes when you're in checkout. Once you submit your order, the total is guaranteed at the exchange rate indexed when you placed your order. You will not be charged any additional fees at delivery.
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Look for this link on your favorites:
Once you've saved some vehicles, you can view them here at any time.
CARFAX One-Owner. Priced below KBB Fair Purchase Price! Odometer is 17107 miles below market average! *One Owner, Honda Certified, AWD, 20" Alloy Wheels, 3rd row seats: split-bench, ABS brakes, Auto High-beam Headlights, Auto-dimming Rear-View mirror, Automatic temperature control, Blind spot sensor: warning, Distance-Pacing Cruise Control, Electronic Stability Control, Entertainment system, Exterior Parking Camera Rear, Four wheel independent suspension, Garage door transmitter: HomeLink, Heated & Ventilated Front Bucket Seats, Heated door mirrors, Heated rear seats, Heated steering wheel, Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System, Illuminated entry, Leather Shift Knob, Memory seat, Navigation System, Passenger vanity mirror, Perforated Leather-Trimmed Seats, Power door mirrors, Power driver seat, Power Liftgate, Power moonroof, Power passenger seat, Radio: AM/FM/HD Premium Audio System, Rear air conditioning, Remote keyless entry, Roof rack: rails only, SiriusXM Radio, Spoiler, Sun blinds, Traction control, Turn signal indicator mirrors.
HondaTrue Certified Details:
* 182 Point Inspection
* Powertrain Limited Warranty: 84 Month/100,000 Mile (whichever comes first) from original in-service date
* Warranty Deductible: $0
* Roadside Assistance
* Transferable Warranty
* Roadside Assistance for the duration of the Certified Pre-Owned Limited Warranty. Up to two complimentary oil changes within the first year of ownership. SiriusXM 90-Day Trial
* Limited Warranty: 12 Month/12,000 Mile (whichever comes first) after new car warranty expires or from certified purchase date
* Vehicle History
At Germain Honda of Beavercreek We have a strong and committed sales staff with many years of experience satisfying our customers' needs. Don't take our word for it see, what our customers are saying about us!! Copy and paste this link: http://www.germainhondaofbeavercreek.com/dealerrater-reviews.htm Germain Honda of Beavercreek!! The Right Car. The Right Price. The Right WaY.
* 2017 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ (When equipped with Honda Sensing and specific headlights) * 2017 KBB.com Best Buy Awards * 2017 KBB.com 10 Best Certified Pre-Owned 3-Row SUVs Under $30,000 * 2017 KBB.com 12 Best Family Cars * 2017 KBB.com Brand Image Awards * 2017 KBB.com 10 Most Awarded Brands
Kelley Blue Book Brand Image Awards are based on the Brand Watch(tm) study from Kelley Blue Book Market Intelligence. Award calculated among non-luxury shoppers. For more information, visit www.kbb.com. Kelley Blue Book is a registered trademark of Kelley Blue Book Co., Inc.
* A versatile, roomy interior with spacious rear seats; ride is smooth and compliant in most conditions; better fuel economy than rivals; multiple clever storage compartments. Source: Edmunds
New vehicle pricing includes all offers and incentives. Tax, Title and Tags not included in vehicle prices shown and must be paid by the purchaser. While great effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this site, errors do occur so please verify information with a customer service rep. This is easily done by calling us at 855-798-3158 or by visiting us at the dealership.
**With approved credit. Terms may vary. Monthly payments are only estimates derived from the vehicle price with a 72 month term, 5.9% interest and 20% downpayment.
*Number of views in last 30 days
† Based on EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery-pack age/condition, and other factors.
From the moment you step foot on our showroom floor, you'll see why we're known as one of the best car dealerships near Dayton, OH. We've got low prices on hundreds of new Hondas and used cars for sale.
Phone: 855-798-3158https://email@example.com,-84.0228758,17z/data=!4m13!1m7!3m6!1s0x88409bd43ff79525:0xf3364c4b5f05a032!2s2300+Heller+Dr,+Dayton,+OH+45434!3b1!8m2!3d39.7079724!4d-84.0206871!3m4!1s0x88409bd46b502b05:0xe63c803679cd5c96!8m2!3d39.7079724!4d-84.0206871


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Before contacting the support team, you should first check our knowledge base, the answers to the frequently asked questions (FAQ) are there.
Your browser doesn't support the file upload. You are always able to send your request, but you cannot join screenshot. If you want to send screenshot, you may update your browser.
Out Of Style - Thursday 24/01/2013, 05:19
Colossus - Wise Men Distracted
As many of us know, there are some characters that give us penalty points for drawing them in a match during a daily tournament. They are divided into three groups, Group A, Group B, and Group C. Each of these groups has its own pre-determined penalty.
Lately, I've seen many players share their discontent with players that use these penalized cards during a tournament. I've seen players comment on adding players that use these cards to their personal blacklist and even some people criticizing others for their usage of the penalized cards. I don't really know how many people actually have an issue with players using these cards. I see no issue with a player's usage of the penalized cards as the player using the cards receives a decent point reduction from using what many players see as an 'overpowered' card.
I would like to know what you, as a DT player, think of players that use these penalized cards. Are they really that big of an issue for you during a tournament? Or are these matches just like playing regular matches for you?
Also, if you do have an issue with playing against players that use these cards, do you think that it would be more beneficial for you if you were to receive additional battle points if your card beat a card that would receive a penalty (i.e. your Ongh beating an opponents Gil would give you an addition 2 battle points)?
I'm just curious about common DT players think about the usage of penalized cards.
Out Of Style - Friday 08/02/2013, 05:25
Colossus - Wise Men Distracted
I agree with you.
I use banned cards, and I think that they're very helpful. Considering I can get into the top 1150 easily. Not that it's ever that hard though...


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News from the world of Maths
On 14 March at 1.59pm GMT, Marcus du Sautoy will host Pi Day Live, an interactive exploration of the number which has fascinated mathematicians throughout the ages. He wants to rediscover pi using ancient and intriguing techniques, and he needs your help!
They've done it again! GIMPS has discovered the largest known prime number: 257,885,161-1. This massive 17,425,170 digit number was discovered thanks to clever distributed computing software that uses idle computer time donated by volunteers.
How would you go about adding up all the integers from 1 to 100? Tap them into a calculator? Write a little computer code? Or look up the general formula for summing integers?
Sometimes you just can't argue with the evidence. If a large sample of
very ill people got better after dancing naked at full moon, then surely
the dance works. But hang on a second. Before you jump to conclusions, you need to rule
out a statistical phenomenon called regression to the mean.
Scientists find a new method of storing information in DNA.
Climate change is causing populations to sync in different species in the high arctic, increasing their risk of extinction.
Stephen Hawking was once told by an editor that every equation in a book would halve the sales. Curiously, the opposite seems to happen when it comes to research papers. Include a bit of maths in the abstract (a kind of summary) and people rate your paper higher — even if the maths makes no sense at all.
The London Underground turns 150 today! It's probably the most famous rail network in the world and much of that fame is due to the iconic London Underground map. But what makes this map so special?


text:
Registration can be made either by cheque or online, via the conference website. Full payment is required upon registration. No confirmation will be sent until Cancer Research and Radiation Oncology Secretariat has received the full payment. Payment of registration fee will be in USD.
Intending participants who prefer to register offline may please Email to: email@example.com you will receive an invoice form for offline Invoice registration from the Organizer or Manager of the conference. After completing the form they may submit the form along with their payment to Email. On receipt of the registration form and payment the Cancer Research and Radiation Oncology secretariat will send a confirmation mail to the participant
Registered participants will receive a registration confirmation. With this confirmation, participants are invited to attend all scientific sessions, exhibitions. Each registered participant will be given a conference kit containing the Conference book, scientific program & other information regarding the conference.
All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing (Email: email@example.com) to conference secretariat. A cancellation fee (up to 4 months the cancellation charge would be 25%, and up to 1 month the cancellation would be 50%) will be applied for all cancellation request received on or before Date: 15th January 2019. There will be no refund on cancellation received after this date. All refunds will be made after the conference. All bank charges, including intermediate bank commission for cancellation refunds, must be covered by the participants/applicants.
Note: Discounted registrations will not be refunded.
The conference secretariat will provide a letter of invitation upon request. This letter is to facilitate participant's travel and visa arrangements only.
- You are requested to provide us your short biography, complete affiliation details and your name in the format as it appears on your passport, you're Identity Cards will be given accordingly, we will not be able to allow any attendee inside the hall without their passport check, you can carry a print out or mail attachment (need not to show original copy).
- FOR LOCAL ATTENDEES Letter from their organization is enough.
- There will be a safety drill demo on the first day of the event, please be prompt and attend this.
- Take care of your belongings in the hall; we will not be able to monitor it keenly however all the attendees will be allowed only after their passport check, except attendees and hotel staff none will be allowed in hall, your accompanying person are requested to wait at the reception.
- Only accompanying person who has paid the fee will be allowed in coffee breaks, lunch and cocktails, we will not be able to entertain kids and other family members, as the arrangements will be done only for registered attendees.
- We will assist you with the invitation letter for the visa and other information that you may need, but we will not be responsible for any visa rejection, no refund can be given in this case. No personal details of the organizers will be shared in this case.
- We suggest you to apply for the tourist visa.
- Please pay the cash in case you are doing on spot registration. Receipt will be given after your confirmation.
- Speakers details, contacts, mails or presentations can only be shared after having their permission, we cannot share their studies directly.
- Organizers will not bear the cost of any extensions in your stay at the venue. If you are coming with any accompanying person you need to book the accommodation accordingly.
- Submit your abstract as per the template available on website along with your short (not more than 100 words) biography, and a recently taken picture, this picture should be professional and passport size.
- Submission can be done online or through the mail.
- Your studies should be accepted at least three months before the event.
- Any modifications in the presentation, or the content to be published in conference proceedings should be submitted in written to the event coordinator two month prior to the event.
- Duration of your talk will be 12 minutes and questionnaire will be 3 minutes. For more discussions breaks will be included in the program.
- Writing material will be provided in the hall, we advise you to carry your own pointer and collect it soon after your presentation.
- In case you are doing on spot registration, its mandatory to share your travel ticket's scan copy with the event coordinator, we will not be able to add the presentation in our event program without this confirmation.
- In any speaker's absence, slot will be given to the following presentation; all the speakers are requested to be in event hall to stay updated.
- In Case you are attending event less than three days inform us about your flight timings we will need this information before finalizing the event. No changes will be possible in the program once it is finalized.
- Tentative program and accommodation confirmation number will be shared with you 45 days prior to the event all final changes can be made at this time, later we will not be able to change the schedule.
- It is mandatory to carry your Student ID card or letter from your organization.
- Poster size should be not more than 1x1 M, color and font can be of your choice.
- All the posters should be submitted beforehand to the coordinator first or second day of the event.
- You have to be in hall during the presentation.
- Collect your poster after the presentation.


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QUINCY, Mass. -- First video killed the radio star. Then it threatened the future of political campaign flyers. Could its next victim be the 8 1/2-by-11 resume?
First video killed the radio star. Then it threatened the future of political campaign flyers. Could its next victim be the 8 1/2-by-11 resume?
In addition to the traditional pieces of paper outlining their skills and accomplishments, job candidates are now creating video resumes: a tool they say gives them a chance to offer a first impression without waiting for an interview invite.
"We're living in a world in which people speak video," said Marco Greenberg, founder of Reel Biography, a New York-based company that makes video resumes. "A video gives a professional the opportunity to show their passion, to demonstrate their communication skills, and to let people know the fire in their belly."
With the advent of YouTube, mainstream job seekers found an outlet to share their own homemade video resumes. As people's amateur videography skills improved, Internet job sites like CareerBuilder and Jobster decided it was prime time to add a video posting feature for their clients.
"We thought video resumes would allow candidates greater depth in conveying their talents," said Theresa Chu, a senior career advisor at CareerBuilder, which added the capability to its site in June.
The trend is slowly creeping into Greater Boston.
Sapphire Technologies, a recruiting firm based in Woburn, received their first video resume Tuesday. An Arlington applicant for a software engineer job sent her a YouTube link for a seven-minute look into his work history.
"I watched the whole thing. It was really, really well done," said Natasha Anderson, a recruiter and manager at Sapphire. "I think we're going to see a lot more in the next three years."
Anderson foresees some distinct benefits of video resumes for employers considering out of town candidates. Flying someone in for an in-person interview has gotten too expensive, and a lot of companies and candidates don't have the capacity for video conferencing. So they make many hiring decisions based on phone conversations.
"This will be a lot more comforting for them," Anderson said.
For the candidates, however, the video will neither make nor break them.
"In the end, his resume is what it is," she said. "His experience is what it is."
That fact leaves some recruiters skeptical about the new medium.
"It essentially comes down to where have you been, what have you done, and what relevant skills do you have," says Matt Noone, manager of the Braintree branch of Robert Half, an international finance recruiting firm.
Noone has seen a small number of video resumes trickle in but said the company has no plans to change its screening process. Recruiters still look at everyone's paper resume, and they still conduct hour-long interviews with people they move forward with.
His concern is the length of time it would take to review video resumes if the trend became more prevalent.
"It takes me 30 seconds to look over a resume," he says. "A seven-minute video is something I'm going to be apprehensive to look into."
This is why Maynard-based online job site Monster has yet to add a video feature to its job seeker profiles.
"We haven't heard a strong demand from recruiters for the ability to see video resumes," said Steve Sylven, Monster's spokesperson. "Recruiters are inundated with resumes every day."
The company is also hesitating because of potential discrimination issues that may arise from having job applicants' age, gender, race, and national origin laid out in a video.
"We've discussed the equal opportunity implications to all this," Sylven said. "We'll definitely factor that in to anything we offer."
Others argue that putting one's appearance on display works to the applicant's advantage. Greenberg recalls making a video for a seasoned event coordinator with white hair.
"It works in her favor," he said. "People know she's been there, she's done that."
If video resumes are the wave of the job seeking future, new video databases will have to come with them.
"Videos take up a lot more storage," Anderson said.
Questions of how to organize videos and store them safely also have arisen.
A Yale grad was subjected to widespread ridicule on the Internet after an investment banking firm leaked his flamboyant video resume showing him lifting weights, ballroom dancing and skiing.
But employers believe that new technology will eventually emerge to handle the volume and concerns of a growing bank of video resumes.
"If we see video resumes coming into prominence more and more, we'll make the necessary adaptations," Noone said. "For the amount of candidates we see daily, that would probably be a significant technical upgrade."
Regardless of all the concerns, Greenberg said, the video resume trend has officially begun. And with the current college-aged, Internet generation pushing the record button, there may be no stopping it.
"I think the younger generation is going to tell the human resources people to take a chill pill," she said.
April Dembosky may be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Hot Topics in Employee Compensation: Pay Right Now or Pay More Later - Minneapolis
The sizzling summer heat is here along with some red hot legal developments in the areas of wage and hour law and pay discrimination. These developments from a variety of federal agencies include:
The Department of Labor's new minimum salary regulations;
The Office of Federal Contract Compliance's final rule on pay transparency and updated sex discrimination guidelines; and
Additional systemic discrimination enforcement activities and initiatives by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Join us so that you are "in the know," prepared to comply with these new regulations and can proactively identify trouble spots for your organization. Take this opportunity to get out ahead of these changes and be prepared to respond to these new developments.
An application for standard Minnesota CLE credit will be submitted. The program will also be submitted to the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) for continuing education credit review.
There is no fee to participate.
Questions? Contact Kelley Mann at +1 317 237 1161 or firstname.lastname@example.com
Services and Industries
8:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. Local Time
Registration and Complimentary Breakfast
8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Local Time
Roundtable Discussion


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Event box
Canines for Literacy @ Pine Valley
Independently reading children can make an appointment to read to a certified therapy dog! Practice your reading skills in a comfortable and fun environment with a trained reading therapy dog and their human companion. Appointments are made for 15 minute increments and are one on one sessions. Pre-registration is required! To make an appointment, use the Read to a Dog online calendar or call the Pine Valley children's desk at 910-798-6393.
- Date:
- Thursday, Jun 27th 2019
- Time:
- 4:15pm - 4:30pm
- Campus:
- Pine Valley
- Categories:
- Children's Program


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Reviewed By: A customer from Geneva, Switzerland on 9/7/11
The map has so far been very useful to plan my trip around florida in January next year. The format is great for a handlebar bag. It will be more of a challenge on a trike but I am sure it will work out just fine. The maps seems more solid than the usual paper maps.


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The Daily IKN email digest, get all daily posts sent to you next day (& no ads)
Torex Gold (TXG.to) in Guerrero State: Don't say IKN didn't try to warn you
Breaking: Mine workers kidnapped from Torex Gold (TXG.to) project (UPDATED)
UPDATE: Latest reports put the number of kidnapped employees at 12, with 11 of them members of the management team. They were ambushed at around 7pm local time yesterday evening by an armed gang who are now demanding a ransom payment. The kidnapped members of staff are apparently Mexican nationals from Coahuila, Michoacán, San Luis Potosí and Sonora states.
And don't say that IKN didn't try to warn you all.
UPDATE 3: Here's the first English language wire report, out just a few minutes ago. Extract:
There were conflicting reports Saturday on how many were taken and whether some were workers for Media Luna, a Canadian-owned gold mining project in the municipality of Cocula, where police officers were charged with participating in the student killings.A state prosecutor's spokesmen said 12 people were taken, including some mine workers. A second government official said that 19 were taken and eight later released and that those held included some mine workers. Both insisted on not being quoted by name because the case had not been officially announced. The state official said the kidnappers were disguised as police or military.But the president of Toronto-based Torex Gold Resources Inc., which owns the mine, said the reports about his employees being abducted were false. Fred Stanford told The Associated Press he had confirmed that nine of his workers who were reported kidnapped were not taken and that he had conflicting information on a 10th employee."One may be involved, but because of a family matter. It has nothing to do with the mine," said Stanford, who is also Torex Gold's chief executive officer.Stanford said Torex Gold has about 250 employees in the area, but at least 1,000 more who are contract workers.
UPDATE 4: Ok, there's something strange about this story. Here's the latest report in which high ranking officers of the Federal Police in Guerrero (who are, for the record, the same body of people that tried to cover up the disappearance of the 43 students in November 2014) have said that there has been no kidnapping at all and the whole story is a lie. They go on to say that the whole thing is due to "communication problems" and at this point there is only one person known to be missing, a worker at the mine who was in the field and nobody knows exactly where he is but with the implcation he was out doing his job normally. To quote the police spokesperson (translated), "The story about the kidnapping of 12 people is a lie...up to this point the report is false."
However, one of the employees at the mine, Juan Zuñiga Méndez, said this afternoon that the commander of the local Community police force told him that a group of armed men had kidnapped workers at the mine while they were travelling in a shuttle bus service. In Zuñiga's words, "They told me that not only workers but also civilians who were commuting from their day's work (had been kidnapped) and to date we don't have the confirmed total of people, but it is a fact."
UPDATE 5: This is a very interesting report on events, which names regional head of the narco gang "La Familia" as the person behind the kidnapping and gives a lot of details on what happened.
David Alaba's goal
For Bayern Munich today, during the team's win against Stuttgart:
You won't see a better free kick goal all season. Or enjoy it on a better resolution video here.
René Lavand
Jack Caldwell on Mt Polley
Advice on romance, 1684 style.
Nothing much has changed, really:
"...when the Husband commeth into his Wives Chamber, he must entertain her with all kinds of dalliance, wanton behaviour, and allurements to Venery, but if he perceive her to be slow and more cold, he must cherish, embrace, and tickle her ... intermixing more wanton Kisses with wanton Words and Speeches, handling her Secret Parts and Dugs, that she may take fire and be inflamed to Venery."
The Friday OT: The Jam; Town Called Malice
Cut down on beer or the kids new gear? It's a big decision.
From 1982. With 1980's music video director doing 1980's video.
Allied Nevada (ANV) (ANV.to) news
(Bloomberg) -- Allied Nevada Gold Corp., a miner that finds itself on the wrong side of a currency swap, hired a financial adviser to negotiate with lenders as its access to cash wanes, according to three people with knowledge of the situation.
Moelis & Co., the New York-based investment bank, is set to lead talks for the Reno, Nevada-based company as it prepares to restructure $543 million of borrowings, said the people, who weren't authorized to speak publicly.Allied Nevada has had to draw down on its $75 million short-term loan as its liability on the swap grows while the Canadian dollar depreciates versus it's U.S. counterpart, according to a Nov. 3 regulatory filing. The gold and silver miner's swap converts Canadian dollars from a C$400 million ($319 million) bond underwritten by Scotiabank and GMP Securities LP into U.S. dollars.
The Academic-Policy Divide, by Russell Crandall
But while academic Latin Americanists might suffer from over-moralizing, the other half of the problem stems from what I call the "Bacardi right"—a group of policy officials and think tankers that acts as though any manifestation of politics or any deviation from their perception of free market economics is by definition Marxist drivel or agitation. I call them the Bacardi right because while their rhetoric is ostensibly about free markets and individual liberties, their true comfort zone is the more traditional political, social and economic realm when they were the comfortable aristocracy or quasi aristocracy. In fact, often the market they seek to protect is the monopolistic one that has benefited them, not a truly free one.I too would love "property rights" if I owned all the property. Their public theologian being the Wall Street Journal's editorialist Mary O'Grady, the Bacardi right treats the sanctity of private property as the foundation of civilization, a convenient creed given that this entails their businesses and families owning all of this sacred property.The Bacardi right was decidedly anti-communist during the Cold War, for obvious reasons. Part of this has been replaced by their skewed free market fundamentalism, although they often view Latin America as though the Cold War were still going on.What is remarkable is that both the academic left and the Bacardi right often have a blind spot for autocrats if these rulers appear to be promoting their own ideologies. Thus, the left will overlook the Castro regime's police state for the admired social gains. The right, by contrast, will applaud Peruvian autocrat, former President Alberto Fujimori's free market opening despite his government's egregious human rights record.
Understanding the Peru Chamber of Mining (SNMPE)
"We the mining companies, run by families living in Lima, may have treated locals in small provincial towns like shit and fucked up their lands with our highly polluting practices for five generations, but we haven't done that sort of thing for at least five years. Why is the government so against us? Why don't the locals seem to trust us at our word? Do they not want progress?"
2015 SPX vs Au
A Flash update...
...has just been sent to subscribers, just before the opening bell this Friday morning.
Update midday local time: FWIW, took the 13 on the mentioned stock.
Ah wuz shocked
That horrible moment when you agree with The Economist on a LatAm political piece
And agree fully all the way down the line. Here's TE on Ollanta Humala and here's an extract:
OLLANTA HUMALA is Latin America's political weather vane. A former army officer, in 2006 he ran for Peru's presidency (and lost) as a sympathiser of Hugo Chávez, his campaign financed in part by Venezuelan money. In 2011 he ran again, this time as a disciple of Brazil's left-leaning but pragmatic former president, known as Lula, calling for "a great transformation". To win a run-off election that year he moved further to the centre, promising to maintain the liberal economic policies that helped to give Peru the fastest growth rate of South America's larger economies over the previous decade.In office, that is what he has done, while recently drifting to a kind of mild populism of the centre-right—the default mode of Peruvian politics since the 1990s. His government has a schizophrenic quality.
Whole thing here. My only gripe: 95% of this piece could have been written two years ago.
Otto Rock is unwell
Nothing serious, seems as though I ate something that disagreed with me. Posting will be light today.
A random thought on China GDP
Why Dalradian (DNA.to) is being pumped by everyone now
1) Actually looks like a fairly decent deposit
2) Ross Beaty bought
3) They're now playing the "let's represent we're going to build the thing ourselves by bringing in Roosen's pal as COO"
4) The early backers suddenly think they have a chance of getting their money back.
5) All of the above.
Louis James, March 2013 to February 2015
- Their prices as of March 1st 2013, just before PDAC
- Their prices today
- The percentage change between the two
- ATAC Resources (ATC.v): Was $1.71, Now $0.72, percentage change -57.9%
- Banks Island Gold (BOZ.v): Was $0.64, Now $0.12, percentage change -81.3%
- Brixton Metals (BBB.v): Was $0.175, Now $0.15, percentage change -14.3%
- Carpathian Gold (CPN.to): Was $0.29, Now $0.015, percentage change -94.8%
- Global Minerals (CTG.v): Was $0.175, Now $0.045, percentage change -74.3%
- Gold Port Resources (GPO.v): Was $0.07, Now $0.017*, percentage change -75.7%
- GoldQuest Mining (GQC.v): Was $0.425, Now $0.12, percentage change -71.8%
- Matamec Explorations (MAT.v): Was $0.185, Now $0.04, percentage change -78.4%
- Renaissance Gold (REN.to): Was $0.455, Now $0.285, percentage change -37.4%
- Adventure Gold (AGE.v): Was $0.255, Now $0.085, percentage change -66.7%
- Almaden Minerals (AMM.to): Was $2.18, Now $1.40, percentage change -35.8%
- Exeter Resources (XRC.to): Was $1.21, Now $0.70, percentage change -42.1%
- International Tower Hill (ITH.to): Was $1.71, Now $0.56, percentage change -67.3%
- Rye Patch Gold (RPM.v): Was $0.355, Now $0.14, percentage change -60.6%
- Sandspring Resources (SSP.v): Was $0.37, Now $0.115, percentage change -68.9%
*Now re-named Codrington Resources, with 3-for-1 share rollback in 2014
Common threads
Scotia on Capstone (CS.to)
I still get a lot of hits and even "like it" mails about the series of posts, "The only chart you need to understand junior mining newsletter writers" (one of which is linked there).
But it also applies to Scotiabank's mining desk.
So congrats on calling the stock higher today, guys. Winning.
Strange doings, currency wars, and unintended consequences
In January of this year, the Bundesbank announced that in 2014 it repatriated 120 tons of its gold reserves back to Germany, 85 tons from New York and the balance from Paris. Of more interest, IN TOTAL SECRECY, the central bank of the Netherlands repatriated 122 tons of its gold from the New York Federal Reserve, which it announced in November of 2014. The Dutch rationale was explained as part of a currency "Plan B" in the event the Netherlands left the Euro. But it still begs the question as to why two of the strongest economies in Europe would no longer want to leave some of their gold reserves on deposit/storage in New York. And why are Austria and Belgium now considering a similar repatriation of their gold assets from New York?
Nevada Copper (NCU.to), its tunnel, its treasury (from IKN299)
- November 25th to January 7th progress from 1,520 feet to 1,655 feet = 135 feet.
- Days elapsed = 43 days.
- Average progress per day = 3.14 feet
- At 5 feet per day: 89 days = 3 months less a couple of days = completion ~early March
- At 4 feet per day: 111 days = 3 ½ months = completion ~late March
- At 3 feet per day: 148 days = nearly 5 months = completion ~end May
B2Gold (BTG) (BTO.to) is 10% down since it went marketing at the TD Sec 2015 conference in Toronto
Probably just a coincidence.
How To Get Ahead In Advertising:
Rule #1: Be Creative in Every Situation
Rule #2: Never Lose Your Perspective
Rule #3: Don't Bring Home Your Work
One month of South American stock markets
Chart of the day is...
Aberdeen (AAB.to): And that's the end of that
Knife to a gunfight, Ryan. Knife to a gunfight.
NR here, fave bit here:
Said Ryan Morris, President of Meson Capital: "I have now spoken with Stan Bharti. I have discussed with him the financial position of Aberdeen and the board's plans going forward. At the outset of this contest I expressed concerns that Mr. Bharti was not acting in the best interests of the companies in which Forbes & Manhattan has an interest. Having initiated this process and seeing that the majority of the shareholders voted in his favour, I now realize that I was wrong. I unreservedly apologize for the prior comments I have made that called into question Mr. Bharti's integrity. I believe that the interests of Aberdeen's shareholders are best served if Meson Capital and Nightscape Capital disengage from Aberdeen, and the board is free to execute on its plan."Or in visual form...
Every beauty contest should end like this
Chart of the day is...
...the gold/silver ratio:
The GSR (aka the precious metal/byproduct ratio) has been over 70X for the last four months. New normal.


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Tel.: +34 93 488 17 17 | Reservations: +34 93 492 22 44
Majestic Residence is an innovative accommodation concept that combines top quality apartments with the traditional hospitality values of Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona.
Located in Paseo de Gracia 69 - Barcelona's most coveted and sophisticated central avenue - just opposite Majestic Hotel & Spa, Majestic Residence 28 apartments feature one, two or four bedrooms to ensure the personalized comfort of all guests.
Majestic Residence offers a 24 hour service and all the necessary furnishings and fittings to procure a wonderful stay next to the best boutique, jewelers and some of Gaudí's most iconic works: La Pedrera and Casa Batlló.


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It's been plenty busy in the semi-alternate universe of "The Newsroom" this season, between a real presidential election and a fake national scandal. Still, in some respects, there's less going on in Aaron Sorkin's HBO drama compared to the last year's debut outing, and that's not a bad thing.
The show is less preachy and self-righteous, even if we've seen more self-flagellation (smugness-emanating cable news show host Will McAvoy offered a near-apology to a Occupy Wall Street organizer he eviscerated on-air). There's been less shrillness (fewer – but no end to – eruptions from producer MacKenzie McHale). There's been somewhat less romantic absurdity (no embarrassing personal emails sent network-wide, though the specter of a reporter turning over an exclusive interview with Mitt Romney to a competitor/potential romantic partner proved enough to turn the stomach).
Meanwhile, there's been a modest uptick in compelling, if borderline overwrought storylines (producer Maggie's connection to a tragedy in Africa, the season-long unfolding of a news story gone terribly wrong). Sunday's season finale offers the potential for a verdict on whether less adding up to more for "The Newsroom" is enough.
U.S. & World
"Newsroom" math, like the show, can be maddening, clouded by more variables than the average – or even above-average – TV drama. The latest batch of episodes mark an improvement over the flawed first season. But just because we haven't rolled our eyes quite as much doesn't mean we like everything we see.
If that sounds overly critical and picky, it's only because Sorkin's TV track record of success ("The West Wing"), interesting failures ("Sports Night") and misfires ("Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip") creates not expectations as much as hope for a quality show. But more than hope lures us back to "The Newsroom" week after week: Strong moments scattered throughout help keep us watching – no more so than the recent episode that told us plenty about Will's troubled relationship with his father without ever seeing the character. Still, the show's rare subtle turn came during a real-time episode packed with even more than the usual mania and occasional silliness.
Another saving grace is generally fine acting from the likes of Jeff Daniels, Emily Mortimer, Sam Waterson, Olivia Munn and others able to use Sorkin's rapid-fire dialogue style not to show how smart the characters are, but to reveal insecurity, vulnerability and uncertainty.
Uncertainty looms for the season finale amid the fallout from the story accusing the U.S. military of killing Pakistani civilians with sarin gas – a report that crumbled after the revelation of an interview digitally manipulated by a rogue producer.
The stakes, personal and journalistic, are always high in Sorkin's "Newsroom," a show that keeps us hoping for more, even as less makes it better. There likely will be more to come – HBO reportedly renewed "The Newsroom" for a third season. In meantime, check out a preview of Sunday's finale below:
Hester is founding director of the award-winning, multi-media NYCity News Service at the City University of New York Graduate School of Journalism. He is the former City Editor of the New York Daily News, where he started as a reporter in 1992. Follow him on Twitter.


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Over 5,000 images of Westerville, from the 1800s to present day, have been digitized. This collection includes images of prominent leaders in the community, Westerville-area landmarks, aerial views, high school classes, former businesses and houses.
The Local History Center at the Westerville Public Library provides access to a collection of images that are subject to varying terms of use.
To obtain the permission forms and discuss usage, contact Local History.
9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
1 p.m. - 6 p.m.


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Product Details
NOAH™ Gray Custom Car Cover (C6406NH) by Covercraft®. With 2 Mirror Pockets. This cover is designed to provide maximum outdoor protection from acid rain, UV rays, snow, tree sap, bird droppings, dirt, and other airborne contaminants. 4 layers of non-woven fabrics feature microscopic pores that keep dirt and most water out while remaining fully breathable. Custom-shaped to your make and model, the bottom edging features elastic for a snug fit that does not interfere with the ease of putting this cover on or taking it off.
- Actual colors may vary from the color on your screen due to monitor color restrictions
- Image shows color of the product, not the exact model or style
High Performance Non-Woven Fabric
High-tech, bonded 4-layer composite uses bi-component side-by-side technology for twin spunbond outer layers, a film barrier, and a soft bi-component spunbond inner layer.
Superior protection
Noah is one of Covercraft's best covers for outdoor use, offering the highest level of protection from, snow, tree sap, bird droppings, minor hail, dirt, and other airborne contaminants.
Elastic Sewn Hems
Elastic edging surrounds all sides to create a snug fit that is just right and not too tight.
Non-Scratch Grommets
Reinforced, non-scratch grommets include a protective flap on the backside and can be used with a tie-down rope.
Custom Fit
Custom car covers follow the exact contours of vehicle. Car covers protect all the vehicle's exposed surface.
4-Year Warranty
Warranty coverage protects against defects in material and workmanship, as well as the fabric becoming unserviceable during normal use.
Made in the USA
Covercraft proudly manufactures their products in the United States.
If your vehicle is parked outside, the NOAH Custom Car Cover is simply the best way to keep up your vehicle's looks and value during all four seasons. The only type of cover that will keep your car completely dry during a heavy rainstorm is a plastic one. While the upside of a plastic cover is absolutely no water gets through, the down side is absolutely no moisture vapor and heat trapped underneath can get out - causing damage to paint and other surfaces as rot and decay quickly get a foothold. While some water will permeate the NOAH Custom Car Cover during heavy rain, that is the only thing that will make it through the microscopic pores found on all four layers. Dirt, tree sap, minor hail stones, bird droppings, and other oily contaminants may land on top of the NOAH cover, but they will not make it through to your paint. The cover is washable - however CoverCraft recommends using a commercial size washing machine for the most effective results.
The NOAH cover also offers a strong level of UV protection from the sun. Not only will that prevent paint from fading, rubber from drying out, and chrome from tarnishing, it prevents damage to materials inside your car. When your vehicle is covered regularly, dashboard materials remain soft without fracturing, leather doesn't dry out, and wood trim does not crack in multiple places due to heat expansion and contraction. Additionally, the annoying chemical haze that forms on the inside of windshields from heated plastic trim will be eliminated.
Among all of CoverCraft's car covers, this one is their heaviest and thickest. It gives you maximum cushioning and protection from door dings if irresponsible drivers will be parking next to you on a regular basis. Being bulkier, it will require slightly more room to store, but it will also be the least likely to come loose in the wind or cause damage by fluttering against paint. Sized for a custom fit on your vehicle, elastic edging surrounding the lower perimeter on all sides helps create a snug fit that doesn't get in the way of removing the cover when the time comes to take it off. Covercraft builds the NOAH car cover in the United States and backs it with a 4-year warranty against failure resulting from manufacturing defects.
Founded in 1965 in the southern region of California, Covercraft® began with the efforts of two founders that were passionate automotive enthusiasts. Working out of a small shop, they began by doing what no one else was doing - creating and building car covers that were tailored for a custom fit on street rods and small European sports cars. Covercraft's philosophy of custom fit design, continuous refinement, and materials development has earned them respect throughout the industry for products that are easy to use, soft to the touch, and durable. Because whether you've got a car parked outside facing an onslaught from intense hot sun, salty sea mist, tropical rain, or brutal winter weather conditions, Covercraft has the fabrics you need to maximize protection of your vehicle, at prices you can afford. Our website offers great values on the full Covercraft product range of car covers, pickup cab covers, convertible top-down interior covers, seat covers, interior organizers, trunk organizers, and much more.


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Kristianna Gough of Oakland, the 31-year-old cyclist struck and killed Sunday along with a San Francisco rider, Matt Peterson, 30, was an Olympic candidate and the third-fastest, non-professional women's triathlete in the world, her mother said today.
"People who knew her will tell you, she was a phenomenon. She broke all records. She started cycling only a short time ago to gain strength in her legs for the Olympic triathlon," Gough's mother, Karen Clarkson, of San Leandro, said. "She won every race she entered. She was her happiest when she was out on her bike or running," she said.
"She had road accidents before and she would always tell me how dangerous it was, that bikes were invisible, that people did not see them and even sometimes, they would go out of t heir way to run her off the road," Clarkson said.
There was no sound to warn of what he'd find when he caught up to his friends. Instead, there were just screams of pain.More links on Kristy Gough and Matt Peterson at Biking Bis.
Brasse, a project manager with Genentech, said his First Aid training kicked in. He began trying to help Gough.
"She stopped breathing so many times," said Brasse, "Each time I told her, 'baby, keep breathing. You're strong.' "
Brasse was too focused on Gough to notice what else was going on. But Renshaw, who came up on the crash scene later, said that [the driver, Sheriff's deputy James] Council appeared to be in shock.
Kevin Valerio, who was riding with the group but pedaling behind Brasse, said Council seemed very disoriented at the crash scene. Another deputy on the scene was walking Council to her car, he said.
She also discourged Council from talking with the quickly gathering group.
"She said don't talk to those people, put her arm around him and took him to the car," Renshaw said.
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