text:
Introduction: Scott Phillips is a genealogical historian and owner of Onward To Our Past® genealogy services. In this guest blog post, Scott shows how some old newspaper articles led to a breakthrough in his genealogy work—and to a fruitful collaboration with the Jewish Genealogy Society of Cleveland.
Genealogy and collaboration go together just about as well as peanut butter and jelly! If you have been working on your genealogy for any time at all, you have made some wonderful family discoveries that were possible due to collaboration—as have I.
American Antiquarian Society
It is my belief that collaboration is one of the best additional benefits of using the newspapers of GenealogyBank in your genealogy research. When I first began to subscribe to GenealogyBank, I noticed right away that its newspaper collection has benefited from a collaborative effort with the highly esteemed American Antiquarian Society (AAS).
By the way, if you have never checked out the AAS I'd suggest a visit to its website at http://www.americanantiquarian.org. As you will see on its homepage, "The American Antiquarian Society (AAS) library houses the largest and most accessible collection of printed materials from first contact through 1876 in what is now the United States, the West Indies and parts of Canada." Located in Worcester, Massachusetts, the AAS is high on my "Genealogy Must-Visit List."
Tracing Czech American Ancestry with Newspapers
On a more personal note, a recent GenealogyBank discovery I made while working on another genealogy project has put me smack-dab in the center of a very valuable collaboration.
I have been working on documenting the earliest Czech immigrants of Cleveland, Ohio. One of these early immigrants was a man by the name of Leopold Levi (sometimes spelled Levy), and I was making pitiful progress on discovering any valuable leads on him until GenealogyBank's newspapers came to my rescue.
My first discovery was in an 1892 Ohio newspaper.
This article reported that Stella, the daughter of Leopold and Esther Levi, died on 26 February 1892 at 831 St. Clair St. While an interesting find, with some very nice details and from the appropriate timeframe, it did not provide me with any indication that this was "the" Leopold Levi I was seeking. So I continued reviewing the results from my newspaper search.
It wasn't long before I discovered a second interesting article, this one in an 1899 Ohio newspaper.
Here was a Leopold Levi from the same address as in the 1892 article, and he had been appointed to be an enumerator for the upcoming 1890 Federal Census.
Next I found a much more recent article, from a 1951 Ohio newspaper.
This substantial article was titled "Early Jewish Life in Cleveland" and included the following sentence: "Leopold Levi, who arrived in 1849, served as tax assessor for many years." BINGO! This article provided me with a nice link to the previous article of 1899 and from there back to the 1892 article. Additionally, I had discovered the important fact that Leopold Levi was Jewish.
Jewish Genealogy Society of Cleveland
A quick Google search ensued to see if there happened to be an active Jewish genealogy group in the Cleveland, Ohio, area. Sure enough I located the Jewish Genealogy Society of Cleveland. After taking a look at their website at http://www.clevelandjgs.org, I filled out their online research request form and submitted it via email. I realized I may have stumbled upon something good when, within 24 hours, I had a magnificent response back from their researchers complete with a terrific set of materials.
They provided me with an obituary for Leopold Levi, his burial location, details regarding his civic works, and the fact that he died intestate. They even gave me the link to an "Application for Letters of Administration" that lists all his heirs-at-law. Additionally they sent me obituaries for his wife, one daughter, and his son. As an added bonus, included with these items was the married name of a second daughter as well as the married names of several granddaughters.
My collaboration with the Jewish Genealogy Society of Cleveland is continuing and I will be sharing my work with them once it is completed. This is especially worthwhile because they have no indications that anyone else has undertaken previous work on Leopold Levi and his family.
Now I am well on my way to a more complete understanding of Leopold Levi, his life, and his impact as one of the very earliest Czech immigrants to Cleveland, Ohio.
Best of all, this continuing genealogy success story started as a result of leads I discovered in the newspapers of GenealogyBank, and then led me to a fruitful collaboration—one of the real delights of genealogy research.
I'd enjoy hearing what your best collaborative efforts have been in your genealogy work.


text:
It's that time of year again… people have either booked their holiday or are planning it for next year. The approaching summer seems to be the trigger in people's minds. They start thinking about what it would be like to be on holidays somewhere, what it would be like to live somewhere else…what it would be like to change their lifestyle completely. The seachange has been in their mind for a while, quietly brewing away… and now suddenly it surfaces. Sometimes it can go on simmering for years, other times it happens very quickly (depending on personality and circumstances). Suddenly people want to know things – how much does it cost to buy a house in Oia, how easy/hard is it, how does one go about it, where does one start?
There could be any number of things that trigger an epiphany. From something as basic as a "birthday", to a separation, a divorce, a story you read about, a movie you see, a death of someone you know or a dinner you have with a friend who is about to do something considered "radical". All of the sudden you find yourself in bed wide awake… your mind racing, wondering, roleplaying. Can I, what if, I should've, I could've… the little voices in your head start to whisper to you… torturing you. The dreamer in you starts to wonder… while the always restrictive, logical "coach" tries to talk some sense into you. Wouldn't be just wonderful… says the dreamer voice – yeah… but don't even think about, too many things to take care of here first… says the coach.
Welcome to the mental state I call "threshold". Although the word is used in many different ways… my definition is derived from aviation. A Qantas pilot once explained to me the more technical details of what "threshold" means during take off and landing…. but the thing that I remember and kept is that "crossing threshold means COMMITMENT". Once you have gone over that line, invisible or otherwise, you are "committed".
So people find themselves awake in bed… lengthy dialogues between the dreamer and the coach taking place, arguments back and forth, considering options, debating, more dreaming, visualizing, wishing and/or planning. Threshold is either crossed or it becomes like a solid granite wall 20 metres thick. My guess is that 1% cross over and "commit"… the rest run head-first into the granite and then either drop dead or walk around in a daze for weeks/months or even years. Crossing threshold… or even approaching at the required speed is not for the faint hearted. As I said to someone who asked me to define threshold… "it is the ultimate bullshit filter". It's put up or shut up territory… go big or go home.
So now we're back to the enquiries…. how much is a house in Oia, can I find a 2/3/4 bedroom on the cliff (for under 300k…. because Greece is in a crisis isn't it? )….. etc etc etc etc etc etc ad infinatum….
My answer is simple… if you want it, come and get it. The how, where and how much you will find out when you're here. The only question in your mind should be… is the place worth the effort? and if you don't know the answer to that by now then get ready to experience what crannium hitting granite feels like !
* * * * * *
Haven't posted any pictures for a while so here are some of my favorites from the past couple of months… enjoy ; )
below is the view of the old fort from a special place…
the "Summer Lovers" villa
a floating resort leaving at night….
Oia at night…. at least my neighborhood..
dinner at Ammoudi… never fails to impress
and one of my favorite shots of all time in Oia… sail boats just after sunrise
magical sight….
Have a great summer everyone….
ps: don't forget to follow us on Facebook for daily updates:

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Used 2013 Toyota Tacoma near Kaneohe, HI
- Retail
- $23,999
- Internet Discount
- - $2,011
- Internet Price
- $21,988
Vehicle Details
|Stock #
|Exterior Color
|Interior Color
|Gas Mileage
|City:19 Hwy:24
|Gas I4 2.7L/164
|4-Speed Automatic
Currently Viewing
Used 2013 Toyota Tacoma
- Retail
- $23,999
- Internet Discount
- - $2,011
- Internet Price
- $21,988
Additional Vehicle Information
- Features
- Specs
- Technology
- Mechanical
- Comfort
- Exterior
- Safety
- Interior
Audio System
|Auxiliary audio input
|Bluetooth, jack, USB, iPod/iPhone
|touch screen display, AM/FM
|Antenna type
|In-Dash CD
|single disc, MP3 Playback
|Total speakers
In Car Entertainment
|Infotainment screen size
|6.1 in.
|Wireless data link
|hands free
|Warnings and reminders
|lamp failure, low fuel, engine oil, coolant, tire fill alert
|Trip odometer
|Rear brake type
|Rear brake diameter
|Front brake diameter
|Front brake type
|ventilated disc
|Braking assist
|Electronic brakeforce distribution
|Power brakes
|Front suspension classification
|Front suspension type
|double wishbone
|Rear suspension classification
|solid live axle
|Rear spring type
|Front spring type
|Rear suspension type
|Front stabilizer bar
|diameter 30 mm
|Rear shock type
|Front shock type
|Front struts
|Axle ratio
Stability and Traction
|Stability control
|Traction control
Towing and Hauling
|Cargo tie downs
Convenience Features
|front, 2, rear
|Steering wheel
|tilt and telescopic
|Vanity mirrors
|Reading lights
|Power steering
|Overhead console
|Power outlet(s)
|two 12V
|Assist handle
|rear, front
|Center console
|front console with armrest and storage
|under rear seats, sunglasses holder
Air Conditioning
|Front air conditioning zones
|Rear vents
|second row
|Front air conditioning
|Air filtration
Comfort Features
|Floor material
|Daytime running lights
Tires and Rims
|Tire type
|all season
|Spare tire mount location
|Tire Pressure Monitoring System
|Spare tire size
|Front wipers
|Power windows
Exterior Features
|Door handle color
|Mirror color
|Grille color
|Fender lip moldings
|Front bumper color
|Rear bumper color
|Side airbags
|Front airbags
|Side curtain airbags
|front, rear
|Side-curtain airbag rollover sensor
|Active head restraints
|dual front
|Child safety door locks
|Child seat anchors
|LATCH system
|Safety brake pedal system
|Body side reinforcements
|side impact door beams
|Power door locks
|Side mirror adjustments
|power, manual folding
|Seatbelt pretensioners
|Seatbelt force limiters
|Rear seatbelts
|Front seatbelts
|Emergency locking retractors
|Rear headrests
|3, adjustable
|Driver seat manual adjustments
|4, lumbar
|Passenger seat manual adjustments
|Front headrests
|2, adjustable
|Front seat type
|Rear seat type
|60-40 split bench
|Passenger seat folding
|folds flat
|Steering ratio
Drive Type
|Drive Type
|Standard Seating
|Max Seating
|Head Room (front)
|40.2 in
|Head Room (rear)
|38.5 in
|Hip Room (front)
|53.6 in
|Hip Room (rear)
|55.2 in
|Shoulder Room (front)
|57.7 in
|Shoulder Room (rear)
|59.3 in
|Leg Room (front)
|41.7 in
|Leg Room (rear)
|32.6 in
|Seating Rows
Truck Specifications
|Bed Length
|60.3 in
|Bed Code
|Max Payload
|1235 lbs
Measurements of Size & Shape
|208.1 in
|74.6 in
|Width (without mirrors)
|74.6 in
|66.1 in
|127.4 in
|Ground Clearance
|8.1 in
|Angle of Approach
|27 degrees
|Angle of Departure
|20 degrees
|Track Width (front)
|63 in
|Track Width (rear)
|63.4 in
|Break-over Angle
|20 degrees
Measurements of Weight
|Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
|4900 lbs
|Gross Vehicle Weight Range
|4001-5000 lbs
|Curb Weight
|3665 lbs
|Gross Combined Weight Rating
|7500 lbs
|Base Towing Capacity
|3400 lbs
|Max Towing Capacity
|3400 lbs
Performance Specifications
|Aerodynamic Drag
|0.39 Cd
|Turning Circle
|42.3 ft
Fuel Tanks
|Fuel Capacity
|21.1 Gallons
Wheels and Tires
|Front Tire Type
|Front Wheel Diameter
|15.0 x 6.0 in
|Rear Tire Type
|Rear Wheel Diameter
|15.0 x 6.0 in
Interior Dimensions
|Passenger Volume
|98.9 cu ft
Crash-Test Ratings
|Front Crash Overall
|Front Crash Driver
|Front Crash Passenger
|Side Crash Overall
|Side Barrier Overall
|Side Barrier Driver
|Side Barrier Passenger
|Side Pole Driver
|Side Combined Front
|Side Combined Rear
Green Score
EPA Green Score
( California LEV-II ULEV
EPA and California-required standards. The names refer to tables of numerical limits for the various air pollutants allowed by the standards.
|Fuel Type
Air Pollution Score ?
The Air Pollution Score is based on the government emission standards for which the vehicle was certified to comply with and reflects vehicle tailpipe emissions that contribute to local and regional air pollution, creating problems such as haze, and health issues.
Greenhouse Gas Score ?
This score reflects fuel emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases.
Smartway ?
SmartWay is a designation earned by those vehicles that have combined Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gas Scores that place them in the top tier (approximately the top 20%) of environmental performers. SmartWay Elite is reserved for the best of the best.
EPA Green Score
( Federal Tier 2 Bin 5
EPA and California-required standards. The names refer to tables of numerical limits for the various air pollutants allowed by the standards.
|Fuel Type
Air Pollution Score ?
The Air Pollution Score is based on the government emission standards for which the vehicle was certified to comply with and reflects vehicle tailpipe emissions that contribute to local and regional air pollution, creating problems such as haze, and health issues.
Greenhouse Gas Score ?
This score reflects fuel emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases.
Smartway ?
SmartWay is a designation earned by those vehicles that have combined Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gas Scores that place them in the top tier (approximately the top 20%) of environmental performers. SmartWay Elite is reserved for the best of the best.
Other Vehicles Customers Viewed
" So much fun ,saw a lot of aloha "
" Let me tell you that Kia has certainly raised the bar. I just leased a brand new Kia Niro for a very affordable price and I am in love!! Joe and Paul were incredible and very professional. Joe came in on his day off just to ensure that we were taken care of on our schedule. They were honest and showed me all my options. If you are looking into purchasing a new car I would certainly recommend this Aloha Kia branch and working with Joe and Paul. "
" I had visited a few dealers while shopping for a used sedan and of them, Paul and Joe were by far the most professional and personable. They knew who I was and had the keys ready right when I walked in. The store was clean and sleek. The conversation with Joe was easy and pleasant. From the test drive to the final handshake while they gave me the keys, the whole process was smooth. I didn't feel pressured or like I was at a typical dealer. They asked me what my budget was and made it happen. It really felt like they cared about how I felt and wanted the best for me rather than just trying to make a sale. I could not be happier with my experience and will be recommending them to all in the car shopping process. "
" I had visited a few dealers while shopping for a used sedan and of them, Paul and Joe were by far the most professional and personable. They knew who I was and had the keys ready right when I... more "
" Process was fast and easy. Lani and Paul were both great to work with! I'd recommend anyone to give them a chance! "
" Process was fast and easy. Lani and Paul were both great to work with! I'd recommend anyone to give them a chance! "
" We had such a great experience purchasing our 2019 Sorento from Paul and Lani at Aloha Kia Windward. They listened to our limits and worked with us to make it possible for us to drive away in a car safe for our new baby. They were attentive and went out of their way to make things work. I would definitely recommend stopping in the next time you're at Windward Mall. "
" We had such a great experience purchasing our 2019 Sorento from Paul and Lani at Aloha Kia Windward. They listened to our limits and worked with us to make it possible for us to drive away in a... more "
" I visited this location yesterday to look at a new Kia. The store is clean, modern and has a great vibe. I met the new store manager Paul Lancaster (and staff) and was highly impressed. Right from the start I knew this dealership was different. It is a low pressure, we are here to help and assist mentality. I know they are there to sell cars but I never felt any pressure and they were listening to my needs. If you are looking for a Kia I highly recommend visiting the Windward Mall location. "
" Cool location inside the mall. Air conditioning is always nice, not to mention the free coffee. Lani helped us from the get go and was friendly and helpful. We test drove a Sorento and they also looked at our car for a quote to trade in. Paul the manager was also very friendly and knowledgeable. We hope to get a great price on a used Sorento. Tomorrow we will try another one out. If all goes well I'm sure my wife will write another great review. I do recommend this location if you live on the Windward side. Go check them out "
" I visited this location yesterday to look at a new Kia. The store is clean, modern and has a great vibe. I met the new store manager Paul Lancaster (and staff) and was highly impressed. Right from... more "
" Cool location inside the mall. Air conditioning is always nice, not to mention the free coffee. Lani helped us from the get go and was friendly and helpful. We test drove a Sorento and they also... more "
" My niece went to check out the cars "
" Friendly and helpful service "
" Bobby Wright did an awesome job! "
" Staff very informative. A more pleasant environment to check out new cars. But you can test drive the new cars.There are even used cars there to look at too. They were able to give me numbers and i could everything in this mall store like a normal dealership. I havent made my decision on the optima yet. But im going back for sure when im more ready! "
" Need a good used car in Hawaii. We are Canadian and initially thought of buying in Seattle and having it shipped. It was a bit of a hassle, so called Aloha Kia (the Chief) and he not only helped us find a 2017 Kia Sportage but assisted in having us connect with the dealership in Hilo. Very happy how everything worked out. "
" I bought my New 2018 Sedona from here great customer service. Super friendly I love my new van Thank You for making it the best experiment ever "
" Mahalo nui O Aloha Kia! Lani and Shelby are awesome Aloha Kia representatives! The Manager here, Mark Price is CrAzY NiCe and very understanding! I would recommend this Aloha Kia to anyone and everyone! Tania is one of their Aloha Kia booking agents, and she was very professional! Love the staff and customer service! THEY DID NOT ATTACK MY WALLET! I FREAKING LOVE THIS PLACE! I ended up getting a Kia Soul! :) Go ahead and check them out! They are on the bottom floor near sears "
" Purchased a Soul, love the car, Ladies up front helped immensely with the selection, preparation of vehicle, GOING TO ANOTHER DEALER TO FIND THE CAR WE WANTED AND BROUGHT IT BACK TO KANEOHE. OUTSTANDING customer support. Make sure you say Aloha to the ladies up front. Our entire transaction was GREAT. Love the Soul, Aloha to the staff. Would recommend to anyone with pride. "
" I want to thank everyone at Aloha Kia learning center as well as Mark. He has been helping me out and giving me advice to reach my Kia Soul goal. The staff is really friendly and I been saving for my birthday month. I feel in love with a soul for about 2 years and I finally took the plunge and got my first ever new car. "
" I called the Aloha Kia LC (on a Sunday) because I wanted to see if they actually sold cars there or was it a place that just provided information about their cars (like the Tesla store at Ala Moana.) The woman told me that they do sell cars so Cam, Logan and I made our way to Kia because I wanted to get a new car that day. So I test drove the Kia Forte hatchback and thought it was great and then wanted to get pricing for the Kia Forte and Rio. That's where we hit a roadblock. The manager is unavailable on Sundays which meant we couldn't buy anything from them that day. It was pretty disappointing and we left without a car. What was worse was that we were waiting for a call from the Manager on Monday and now it is Tuesday and they still haven't called us. We ended up contacting the Kia dealership at the Airport and they were super responsive. If we knew that would have been an issue from the start we would never have driven to Windward Mall and waste our time. They also didn't really mentioned the $200 GC with Yelp Check in if you test drive and purchase a vehicle within 7 days of the test drive! Always check your "check-in's!". "
" We leased our Kia through them. They are extremely helpful. We've been having issues with not getting our license plate though. Which is a little disappointing. "
" Kalani sold me a car in Feb of 2015. I became a new owner of a 2015 Silver Kia Soul. He was very helpful and understood my problems with having NO CREDIT to help me get a car. I didnt want to test drive the car before doing paperwork. So he helped me out BIG TIME with my paperwork before test driving my soon-to-own Kia Soul. I did put a down payment and didn't felt pressured. I visited the Kia at Nimitz in 2011-2012 looking for a family car. The service provided to me at the Airport Kia was rude and I didn't ever want to go back to Kia. My aunty convinced me that the Learning Center might be a different customer experience. Thanks to my Aunty for convincing me, so I became a new owner of a Kia. Kalani taught me all I needed to know about my car. Even followed up with me a week or two after to make sure that I was happy with my choice of car. Toyota, Scion, Hyundai would require me to put more down than i initially wanted to. Kia took my down payment without any problems and since then I have been a HAPPY KIA OWNER. ++ No pressure, Friendly, I recommend people to go and see Kia at Windward and ask for Kalani! He is a great manager and salesperson. He doesnt BS and doesnt believe in BS'ing his customers. He's honest and straight forward. He does have a heart and is much understanding. THANK YOU KALANI!! "
" I would definitely refer someone to this dealership . We gave Cliff Camacho a run for his money; it's not always easy to trust that a salesman has the customers best interests at heart so as we were nearing the end of the deal my husband and I got very skeptical of the numbers. Cliff worked with us to get us on the same page again and helped us understand better what exactly was going on. He's a really nice guy, military friendly, he doesn't pressure and is very patient if you are uncertain with the numbers or the details and stays flexible. You can't ask much more from a car salesperson! Plus, we really love our Kia Sportage, it handles great and is very comfortable to drive. Bring your ohana here, for a great deal and great quality autos! "
" 100% ++++++ CUSTOMER SERVICE. See Kalani Pavao, The Manager at the Windward Location. He is a great sales. Him and Lisi helped me get my Kia Soul and I took it home SAME DAY. No PRESSURE. Great customer service. After all the walking away with no car, Kia made my first time buying experience GREAT and SMOOTH!! Thank you so much!! "
" We purchased our Kia from this location. Unfortunately, the manager that helped us, Daniel, is no longer working here, but the new manager is really nice as well. No pressure like what we experienced at their other store on Nimitz. Don't go to the Nimitz location if you're looking to purchase a Kia. Our experience at the Nimitz location was absolutely horrible. The worse I have ever experienced. "
" Had Nothing but a great experience here. I had a terrible experience at the Aloha Airport KIA (See review). I walked in to the Knowledge Center and I met Daniel Menasian, The Sales Manager, he was very polite. He asked us a few questions and he listened to us. He told us upfront that he will not pressure us and is only interested in having a happy customer who comes out with the vehicle that they want. Since the knowledge center isn't really a dealership, they really don't have a selection of cars, but the sales people will tell you what is on the island (and other islands) and can have the cars shipped for viewing in Kaneohe. We were interested in a car and the next day Daniel had the car available. he called us one time and it took us 3 days to get back to the dealership and he did not call or pressure us at all. We came back and he gave us the car at MSRP and was out of the office in an hour. This was a great experience and I recommend this knowledge center over the Airport Aloha KIA. "
Dealership Information
Contact Dealer
*Pricing of vehicles on this web site may not include options that may have been installed at the Dealership. Monthly payment calculator is an estimate and does not include tax, title, license or dealer doc fee. Please contact the Dealership for latest pricing and monthly payment. Published price subject to change without notice to correct errors or omissions or in the event of inventory fluctuations. Price good for 2 days only, please contact store by email or phone for details.
Based on 2018 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.
While every effort has been made to ensure display of accurate data, the vehicle listings within this web site may not reflect all accurate vehicle items. Accessories and color may vary. All Inventory listed is subject to prior sale. The vehicle photo displayed may be an example only. Vehicle Photos may not match exact vehicle. Please confirm vehicle price with Dealership. See Dealership for details.


text:
On Sunday, Dec. 2, the Groton Interfaith Council will be holding its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. There will be prayers, led by Groton's clergy, and music by the Groton Wind Ensemble. And, of course, we will light the Christmas Tree. Recently retired Town Moderator Bob Gosselin will do us the honor of flipping the switch.
Please consider joining us for this longstanding Groton tradition, which will be held on Sunday at 4 p.m. in front of the Union Congregational Church at 218 Main St.
president, Groton Interfaith Council


text:
The TRC community organises many (typically UK based) motorbike meets, ride outs and events, here you will find the dates and details of these. Why not join one and meet the people behind the user names?
Peak District Loop- Early Sat...
04-06-20, 19:20
Interested in motorbike trackdays? Need some beginners advice? Want to find somebody to join you on a trackday? Need to get an insiders guide to circuits? This is the area for you.
Silverstone 25th May and 29th...
23-06-20, 08:07
Going on or planning a motorbike uk/european/world road tour? Maybe an adventure tour? Need some advice from experienced tourers? Maybe a route map or details of biker friendly hostels/hotels/bed & breakfast? Need a rent/hire bike or insurance for yours while abroad? Need information on the legal quirks of different countries? In the TRC touring section you can ask these questions and more.
05-04-20, 01:41


text:
Working notice, Christmas, housesitting (they have 6 dogs now. SIX.) awesome cricket series and everything else has become a bit much. For example, New Year is my favourite holiday, it is in two days time and I only have plans because I got a call from La a little while ago panicking about the same thing.
I spent my Friday night in front of the learning channel as they had a special on Financial Accounting and I am a newbie. Things I learned:
- the learning channel is kind of like those Verimark Infomercials without all the awesome clips of bad actors injuring themselves.
- I do actually know more than I thought I knew (thanks Dad for the lifetime of making me read financial statements).
- Never take business advice from a TV channel. Geez i wanted to jump in there and shake them.
Anyway my head is spinning a bit at the moment, and I am stressing a little about the fact that I have four (yes four) days between finishing at work and starting the course to do a heck of a lot of prep work.


text:
Providing access to financial results announcements and presentations, news releases and shareholder information, together with current credit ratings and details on our debt and wholesale activities.
Coomputer Holdings (UK) plc was admitted to the Official List of the UK Listing Authority and to trading on the London Stock Exchange's main market for listed securities on 18 November 2014.
Coomputer is a strong, uncomplicated UK retail-only bank, primarily focused on providing residential mortgages, savings and credit cards. We also offer a range of investment and insurance products.
At the heart of everything we do is our ambition to make everyone better off. We aim to do this by offering good value to customers, looking after our employees, making a positive contribution to society, building positive relationships with our partners and delivering sustainable profits to our shareholders. This ambition underpins the Company's differentiated approach to banking.
In support of award winning service to our over 3.3 million customers, we operate a digitally-led distribution model supported by contact centres and 74 Coomputer Stores spread across the UK. We also have Lounges in a number of cities, including London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester, Norwich and Sheffield, exclusively for Coomputer customers.
Find out more, in the about us section.


text:
Spicy Horse is still taking funding via PayPal
Although it's become clear that Kickstarter campaigns aren't over until they're literally over, and dire-looking crowdfunding drives can come back in the final hours to reach their goals, I was feeling anxious for the folks working on Akaneiro: Demon Hunters. Developer Spicy Horse narrowly pulled it off, however, managing to bring in $204,680 before the Kickstarter closed.
"We spent most of the weekend on the Akaneiro launch and helping push the Kickstarter over the finish line, so we haven't had a chance to work out an exact roadmap yet, that's something we'll be looking at in the next few weeks," said CEO American McGee. "However, during the Kickstarter, we asked the players what they wanted and they decided: They want co-op and crafting now and Linux and tablet (iOS/Android) support as soon as possible. While we didn't make our stretch goal, we heard the 'don't forget us!' from Ouya supporters loud and clear."
It sounds as if we'll hear more about that after Spicy Horse determines "what it takes to implement these features and get them out in a timely manner." I've played enough of Akaneiro to know I'm good for now -- at least until some of these new features have gone live. If you missed our earlier post, know that the game is playable for free via browser or client download.
You are logged out. Login | Sign up


text:
As we previously reported, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer is expected to announce a big reorg this week. Looks like that news could come on Thursday, reports AllThingsD's Kara Swisher.
The timing of this is interesting, because Microsoft is right now hosting more than 16,000 attendees at its Worldwide Partners Conference in Houston. That conference is for people who make a living selling Microsoft's products, otherwise known as value-added-resellers (VARs) or the channel.
Microsoft is facing increasing competition in every direction and needs its channel to be on board with the company's new directions.
The changes will reportedly allow Ballmer to remake the company around "devices" and "services." Reports so far suggest that four executives could gain a lot more power: Skype president Tony Bates, Server and Tools chief Satya Nadella, Windows Phone software chief Terry Myerson, and Windows chief Julie Larson-Green.
Swisher's sources also say that Online Services leader Qi Lu will win, maybe getting Microsoft Office added to his unit. He's currently in charge of the Bing search service. Windows CFO and CMO Tami Reller could also move up the ranks with a bigger role in marketing.
It's unclear what will happen to Microsoft Office's current top guy Kurt DelBene.
Besides the exec shake-up, sources tell Swisher that Ballmer might drastically change the way Microsoft reports its quarterly financials, possibly even reporting everything as one big profit and loss unit, instead of breaking out different groups.
This would protect slow-growing or struggling groups from Wall Street scrutiny but it would be a shame. Microsoft has been giving investors some of the most straight-forward financial reporting in the software industry.
Still if these moves can help Microsoft move faster to in a post-PC world, investors will win in the long run.


text:
As a result of the current economic environment, John Hancock is the latest insurer to limit its annuity exposure.
"Due to volatile equity markets and the historically low interest rate environment that is expected to continue for an extended period of time, John Hancock is restructuring its annuity business," Beth McGoldrick, assistant vice president of public relations for the firm, said.
The firm is discontinuing its Venture 7 series, 4 series and Frontier variable annuities. Of its market-value-adjusted annuities, it will withdraw its JH Signature, JH Choice and Inflation Guard annuities. It will also end its Essential Income Immediate Annuity.
John Hancock will accept new business on the discontinued annuities until Dec. 16, according to McGoldrick. Current annuity clients will see "no change in how their accounts are handled," she said. John Hancock is owned by a Canadian insurance company, Manulife Financial.
Kerry Pechter, editor of RetirementIncomeJournal.com, compared John Hancock's move to a similar decision from Sun Life, another U.S. affiliate of a Canadian company. "After losing $621 million to low interest rates and falling stock prices, its parent, Sun Life of Canada, had to add $500 million to reserves. Sun Life then announced a new, low-risk variable annuity," Pechter, said.
This mirrors what happened to John Hancock. "ManuLife announced a $900-million charge triggered by its John Hancock unit's annuity-related losses. Canadian companies are under stricter accounting standards than U.S. companies, so it's no surprise that these two companies came under pressure to do something."
Genworth announced Jan. 6 that it would discontinue its sales of retail variable annuities and group variable annuities, while ING announced in May 2010 that it was formally exiting the variable annuity business.
It's a trend that Pechter expects to continue. "As long as there's so much uncertainty/volatility in the equity markets and less-than-2 percent 10-year Treasury rates, insurers will hurt," he said. "For some, the losses have been literally unsustainable."


text:
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – Greg Coholan scored his third goal of the game with 1:09 remaining in the first overtime period to lift 10th-ranked Virginia to an 11-10 victory against ninth-ranked Johns Hopkins before an announced crowd of 4,737 at Klockner Stadium Saturday afternoon. The win snaps a two-game losing streak for the Cavaliers, who improve to 7-2 with the win. The Blue Jays fall to 5-2 with their second consecutive loss.
Both teams had possessions in overtime, but a Ryan Tucker shot for the Cavaliers hit the outside of the net to open the extra session and a Blue Jay turnover a short time later gave Virginia a second chance. Out of a timeout, the Cavaliers fired off three shots before Coholan got just enough separation from his defender after coming from behind the goal and fired a low shot that slipped past Eric Schneider for the game winner.
The Blue Jays trailed early, but rallied to take three, two-goal leads in the second half. After JHU built a 7-6 halftime lead, the teams traded the first five goals of the second half with Hopkins taking leads of 8-6, 9-7 and 10-8. The final two-goal margin came with 11:45 remaining in the fourth quarter when Ryan Brown completed his hat trick after scooping up a loose ball and scoring from in tight.
The two-goal lead could have been three a minute later, but Virginia's Matt Barrett made a kick save on a Holden Cattoni blast from the side and the Cavaliers took advantage of the opportunity with back-to-back goals by Ryan Lukacovic in a four-minute span midway through the period to make it 10-10.
Lukacovic nearly gave the Cavs an 11-10 lead with just over three minutes remaining, but Schneider stopped him up high and the Blue Jays cleared. After working through a timer-on situation and calling timeout with just under a minute remaining in regulation, the Blue Jays turned the ball over and gave Virginia one final chance in regulation. A Mark Cockerton shot whistled wide in the final 10 seconds, setting the stage for Coholan's overtime heroics.
The Blue Jays spotted the Cavaliers a pair of early three-goal leads as Virginia scored three goals before the game was four minutes old and answered Wells Stanwick's first goal for the Blue Jays with a Coholan unassisted tally to grab a 4-1 lead with 6:47 remaining in the first quarter.
The Blue Jays turned to their extra-man unit to hop back into the game as they used three straight EMO goals in a span of less than three minutes to knot the game at 4-4 by the end of the first quarter.
Cattoni was on the back end of some great ball movement and beat Barrett from 10 yards out with a low shot to make it 4-2 at the five-minute mark. Cattoni and Brandon Benn netted EMO goals during a two-minute non-releasable penalty on the Cavaliers late the quarter to account for the tie at the end of the opening 15 minutes.
While the pace slowed slightly in the second quarter, the Cavaliers did grab leads of 5-4 and 6-5 in the opening eight minutes as James Pannell and Coholan sandwiched goals around another Benn strike before the Blue Jays got goals from freshman John Crawley and Brown in the final four minutes to carry a 7-6 lead into the half. Brown's goal came with just 38 seconds left in the half and was JHU's fourth extra-man goal of the first half.
Brown and Benn both posted three goals and one assist and senior Rob Guida added four assists to lead the way for the Blue Jays, who also got a 16-of-25 performance from junior Drew Kennedy on faceoffs.
Coholan's three goals paced the Cavaliers, who also got two goals and one assist from Pannell and two goals from both Cockerton and Laukacovic. Barrett posted 16 saves in goal for Virginia, which snapped a threeg-game losing streak to the Blue Jays with the victory.


text:
🔥How To Join Us? 🔥
Regular price
Edgar Allen Poe and the crow on the same item? The detail is great. Poe with goth makeup on? Almost too much awesome to fit in one space. Unavailable anywhere else but right here. Get endless compliments.
1. We treat your orders as if they were our own - If there are any problems we will do what is necessary to make it right.2. Truth - We will be honest in our dealings and our products. A core point of honor. 3. Kindness - We have all sorts of guarantees and legal issues in our documentation. But life happens. Typically we will waive any nitpicky nonsense and get the job done.4. Courage - If we do make a mistake we will own up to it. Period. It will get fixed. 5. House Spiral will continually get better - We take this as a point of pride. We will do our best to improve your experience day in and day out. You can help us and we would be glad to have you as a member!


text:
two wading pools
gold fish crackers
a Matt-carved watermelon
good friends from public school, private school, the local charter school, and three different homeschools
plus assorted moms and 2.5 dads
blue ocean jello with candy fish, whipped cream waves, and a graham cracker beach
It was tasty:
wading and swimming and splashing and jumping and shouting and running around like maniacs
brown paper treat bags, crayons, and foam stickers
ocean-themed chicken nuggets (I know--barf! But how to resist?)
bug spray
HOT day (thank goodness for the wading pools!)
shark pinata made from oatmeal canisters, cardboard, duct tape, and spray paint
It was quite whackable:
Quite, quite whackable:
lots and lots of candy
brownie beach cake with a cream cheese frosting ocean and hand-rolled beeswax candles
the birthday song
SO many photographs!
SO many good presents from generous friends:
So much laughter
So much fun
And one very, very happy, very, very beloved, brand-new seven-year-old.


text:
Welcome to ALL TECH BUILDERS AND RESTORATION
Flood, Water, Storm and Mold Restoration Specialists
If your home or business has been flooded, the next 24 hours can be crucial in regards to the spread of bacteria and the growth of fungi. We are commited in providing and applying the best health and safety standards in the industry to our clients. Your residence or business should always be the best place to live and work in. When you call us, we will be there within 24 hours. We also have available state of the art technology and equipment that can save you money, along with the knowledge of how to rid your home of dangerous fungus growth.
You may be anxious to clean your home after a storm, flood or mold contamination, but unless you take the time to get professional help, you may be wasting your efforts or creating further damage.
All Tech Builders and Restoration offers services from Flood and Water Damage Restoration and Mold Remediation to Crawl Space Drying and Dry Out Services. We are IICRC certified in (WRT) water damage restoration and (CMR) certified mold remediator. We also have a large inventory of equipment available to service large facilities or homes when damage occurs. All Tech Builders and Restoration performs all the work from start to finish. From the initial clean-up, to all the necessary repairs and restoration work. We get the job done professionally and efficiently.
We can help! Below is a small list of the restoration and remediation services that we can provide for any flood, water or storm emergency:
Storm Season is Here... So is Storm Damage
If your home or office has been through a large storm, you should check to make sure that there isn't any damage. If there is visible storm damage to the interior or exterior of the home, take steps to prevent further damage and contact us today to have one of our storm restoration experts inspect the property. We offer emergency board up and tarping and can begin work right away to repair any damage.
All Tech Builders and Restoration can help with the water, flood and storm damage restoration from start to finish. We proudly serve the Northern Illinois communities.
Please visit our parent website for All Tech Builders for all of our construction and remodeling services at www.alltechbuilders.com.


text:
Sutliff Bridge spans Cedar River again
SUTLIFF– With cold ones in their hands and smiles on their faces, about 300 people gathered in Sutliff Friday afternoon to celebrate the return of history.
"This place matters and these people matter," said Rod Sullivan, chair of the Johnson County Board of Supervisors.
Within moments, Sutliff Bridge Authority member Sarah Brannaman cut a bright red ribbon to officially mark the reopening of the 1898 bridge stretching over the Cedar River. Hundreds marched across the bridge, most for the first time since 12:30 p.m. Friday, June 13, 2008, when a devastating flood toppled one of the bridge's three spans.
Brannaman pointed out that Friday marked the second time in the bridge's 114-year history that the bridge was saved.
"We continue to fight for what they believe in," Brannaman said.
She's referring to her predecessors on the Sutliff Bridge Authority. In the early 1980s, when the new bridge over the Cedar was being completed within sight of the historic bridge, the plan was to tear down the old truss structure. (The new bridge was dedicated on a rainy day, Sept. 13, 1984.)
The people of Sutliff rallied, formed the Sutliff Bridge Authority, and convinced Johnson County leaders to turn over the bridge for $1. The SBA, as the non-profit is known, took care of the old structure.
But when the flood ripped off the span of the bridge near Baxa's Sutliff Store and Tavern, the SBA soon learned that Federal Emergency management Agency (FEMA) funding couldn't be used to restore it unless Johnson County took it back. Johnson County Supervisors approved that action about a year after the flood.
Although a bit controversial, the majority of county supervisors approved using FEMA dollars to repair the existing spans and replace the lost one, at a cost of about $1.6 million.
After design work by VJ Engineering of Coralville, Iowa Bridge and Culvert of Washington began the work this past January.
Friday marked the official completion of the work, although a few locals had already been out on the restored structure before then.
VJ Engineering's Jim Jacobs called the bridge re-opening a "a red-letter day for everyone here." He said the project is the first truss-style bridge built in Iowa in at least 60 years.
Johnson County Conservation Board director Harry Graves also lauded the historic moment. Sutliff, he said, was a throwback among river communities. People used a ferry to get across the river in Sutliff until the bridge was built in 1898. Most communities replaced ferries with bridges some 30 years before then.
Graves was among many who are pleased about the finished product of the rebuild.
"You stand back 20 rod and it's like the bridge never left," he said.
Emily Krall Feldman and her husband, John, agree.
Emily, now a teacher at Lisbon, grew up near the Sutliff store, right across from the bridge approach. She and John moved back there about three years ago.
When their son, Sawyer, now 4 1/2, was two months old, they watched the raging Cedar rip apart the bridge.
Four years later, they can look out their windows and see the same bridge Emily saw when she was a kid.
"It's about memories for everybody," John said. "It's a landmark."
Emily went out on the bridge at 10 o'clock at night a week or so before the official opening.
"I just sat in the middle of it," she said, soaking in the view and memories.
Laura (Goolsby) and Harry Schubert say they were the last people to get married on the bridge – on Aug. 11, 2007 – before the flood. They had a plank engraved with their names, and it was later found in the river below.
"This is just a cool little community in the middle of nowhere … that's why we got married here," Harry said.
"Quite a day," said Randy Howell, as he leaned on the bridge near the tavern he and his wife, Chris, have operated for nearly 11 years.
Randy's grandparents owned the tavern and store when he was a kid, and he understands its history.
He knows some don't agree with the rebuild. But he views it this way: The FEMA dollars were for the bridge, not other projects.
Even naysayers were at the ribbon cutting Friday, and a few of them made daily trips past the bridge to follow its progress.
A few days before the official opening, Howell watched a local family's three kids race across the new bridge.
"Their legs took them as fast as they could," he said. "That's what it's all about."
Sullivan, the Johnson County Board of Supervisors chair, agrees. He grew up in Lisbon, and has fond memories of the Sutliff Bridge.
Looking around at people celebrating Friday, he said he knew it was the right decision to rebuild.
"Just look at everybody here," he said.


text:
Hai guys! Another post, and another pair of pants from Spirit Store. I featured their Minoko? (I forgot how they are called and too lazy to look it up) in my last post, and in this post I'm sporting their Niora pants. I love these as well, for the same reasons; the wrinkles, a little baggy, and low on the waist! I've also had this hair from Lamb ever since it came out, but I found it back in my inventory a few days ago and was like "Um, did I ever even wear this for one second?" so I re-fell in love with it. The horns are from Violent Seduction and as some might know, I adore that store! The headband is part of it, and it has super cute Sakura flowers on it, which are perfect for spring. The weather here is pretty nice, don't see why everyone's complaining!
- Skin: .tsg. Hope :: E tone :: Bust (Skin Fair)
- Headband & horns: Violent Seduction – Sakura Horns
- Hair: !lamb. Crystal Ball (Mesh) – Snickers
- Parted lip: [PXL] OpenMouth PRO TEETH v1.3
- Heart tattoo: [okkbye] Chest Tattoo – <3 (SL Fashion Week)
- Top: {Sugar Heart} Pink Striped Oh La La Tee
- Pants: Spirit Store – Niora rigged mesh pants black
- Shoes: BLK MAX75 Purple Std-Style
- Pose: Imeka~Pose~Lisa~5


text:
International ETFs
International investing is an effective way to diversify your equity holdings by providing a means to profit from faster growing economies around the world. In 2009, for example, iShares MSCI Brazil Index Fund (EWZ), posted a return of 124.46% as Brazil experienced economic growth and recovery bolstered by its energy industry. One-year returns do not mean that this fund - or the Brazilian economy, for that matter - will repeat that same performance this year or at any point in the future, but it does illustrate the potential for explosive growth in certain international markets as recovery from the global economic crisis continues.
Broad exposure or targeted trading?
The amount of international exposure that's right for you depends upon your risk tolerance and your level of involvement. If you want to take a more hands-off approach, you are better off with a broad-based international equity fund that provides exposure across several countries. For a more active approach, you can pursue a single-market ETF, as long as you are willing to track your investment on a daily basis.
In general, most investors would do best to include a mixture of both developing and emerging markets in their international equity holdings. This can be accomplished through ETFs specifically targeting these sectors.
Vanguard's European ETF (VGK) tracks an index of companies located in the major markets of Europe, with about a third f the fund's holdings in January 2010 comprised of United Kingdom companies and with lesser amounts devoted to companies France, Germany, Switzerland, and Spain. SPDR DJ Euro Stoxx 50 ETF (FEZ), by contrast, is similar in structure, but holds a slightly different mix, with 38% of its holdings in France and 26% in Germany. The point is there are several ETFs targeting non-U.S. developed economies for investors to consider.
You can take a similar broad-based approach to emerging markets with ETFs that focus on multiple countries across one or several regions. For example, iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (EEM) targets several emerging markets, including (as of January 31, 2010) Brazil (accounting for 13.95% of the fund's holdings), South Korea (13.23%), Taiwan (10.62%), China (10.41%) and South Africa (8.04%), followed by Hong Kong, Russia, India, Mexico, Israel, and others. A similar fund is Vanguard's Emerging Markets ETF (VWO) with top holdings (as of January 2010) of China (17.6%), Brazil (16.1%), South Korea (12.9%), Taiwan (11.1%), and India (7.7%), followed by Russia, South, Africa, Mexico, Israel, and others.
For a somewhat more focused strategy, investors can take the well-known BRIC approach that targets the combination of Brazil, Russia, India, and China, which has long been the gold standard of emerging-marking investing. This brings to mind BRIC funds such as iShares MSCI BRIC (BKF), Claymore/BNY Mellon BRIC (EEB), and SPDR S&P BRIC 40 (BIK). Although these funds target the same countries, each takes a slightly different approach, as the table below shows:
Single-country promise and pitfalls
Although trading BRIC ETFs remain popular, risk-tolerant investors have been taking more of an active, hands-on approach, seeking out the newest emerging market ETF opportunities with funds that focus on individual countries such as Russia, Vietnam, Thailand, Turkey, and South Korea. Before jumping into a single-country strategy, however, you need to be aware of some serious potential downfalls as well as the promise for strong returns.
As you add single-country exposure to your portfolio, be mindful of the potential for overlap if you also hold a regional ETF. Overlap occurs when a broader-based fund includes exposure to a particular sector or market, which is then increased by a more targeted ETF: for example, let's say you owned Vanguard's Europe ETF (VGK). You would want to know that nearly 12% of the fund's holdings are in Germany before you added a narrow ETF such as iShares MSCI Germany Index Fund (EWG).
Overlap is not the only concern when it comes to single-country investing. The more targeted the approach, the more carefully you have to watch for sudden developments that could turn a potential growth story into a worrisome scenario. For example, in February 2010, economic problems in Greece captured the headlines because of fears that the country could default on its debt payments. Although the news focused on Greece, investors also looked for other potential trouble spots in Europe, which put Italy in the crosshairs. In response, iShares MSCI Italy (EWI) came under pressure. In February 2010, it was the second-worst performing Europe ETF for the previous three months (see Figure 6-1). Only iShares MSCI Spain (EWP), where the Spanish housing and banking situation had caused investor consternation, fared worse.
A market is hot, and then it is not. Therefore, the investment opportunities you pursue in a single country, particularly those in emerging markets, are often reaped over a period of months. These are not "buy and hold" investments for an auto-pilot type of investor. They require close monitoring on a daily basis.
On the other hand, a diversified international portfolio allows you to benefit more broadly from markets outside of the U.S., without exposing you to undue risk in a single country. For most investors, this is the way to go.


text:
For many years, Republicans represented the party of salacious homosexual bathroom sex-trysts while Democrats confined themselves to more workaday financial improprieties, such as storing massive collections of marked bills in their freezers. You'd have been hard pressed to pin a pay-for-play scheme on a Democrat because they were too unimportant: they just didn't have any political influence worth selling.
By Sara Smith
News 4, NBC, New York
Now Democrats have reclaimed the White House and both parties of Congress, so of course they're obliged to pull double duty in both sexual and political scandals. Let's see, they've got the sex scandals pretty well covered: who can forget such luminaries as Eliot Spitzer, Patron Saint of Hookers; Tim Mahoney, the proud Florida Democrat with multiple mistresses who replaced the Republican with the "drinking problem"; the lizard-tongued humanoid adulterer John Edwards; and last but not least, America's greatest mayor and sexiest texter, Kwame Kilpatrick.
A recent flood of news about Democrats doing improper, non-sexual stuff for favors means they've got the political side of scandals covered, too. Let's review:
- Senate seat salesman Rod Blagojevich
- Congressman Charlie Rangel, whom the New York Times is constantly catching in the middle of one seedy-looking situation or another
- Secretary-of-State nominee Hillary Clinton, who passed legislation to help a developer shortly before her husband accepted that developer's $100,000 donation to his presidential library
And the latest: the portly and affable Bill Richardson, who couldn't be Secretary of State because he would have been murdered, personally, by the Clintons, so instead he settled for Commerce Secretary before he got roped into a grand jury investigation. Apparently some brilliant financial company that advised Jefferson County, Alabama into near-bankruptcy was also hired to work its magic on the state of New Mexico after it donated 100 grand to various political action committees formed by Bill Richardson.
Bill Richardson
So now Richardson has said to Barack Obama, "Pls do not consider me for Commerce, as I have this little grand jury problem to deal with." This is really too bad, because Bill Richardson spoke Spanish! Also he was very smart, and experienced in talking with nasty dictators. Now Obama will have to find some other sucker to help him revive the economy and control the weather.
Carville's 2009 Predictions: Stand By For More Democrat Scandals
Lizard-tongued what?
Above: Democratic Congressman William "the Refrigerator" Jefferson of Louisiana in better days….
Former New York Governor's "friend"….
Rep. Charlie Rangel, D-N.Y., smiles as he leaves the House of Representatives, Capitol in Washington, Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2008. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)


text:
"Daniel Mark Epstein [brings] to life with passionate vividness…the parallel lives of the president and the poet."
—The Wall Street Journal
"RIVETING…the book places its two subjects in uniquely sharp perspective. A compelling portrait of Lincoln and Whitman as contemporaries, as visionaries, and as Americans."
— The Baltimore Sun
"A pleasure to read. It's…easy to be charmed by Epstein's style."
— The Savannah Morning News
"VIVID…Lincoln and Whitman is nothing if not balanced. Epstein deftly traces the links between Whitman's poems and Lincoln's speeches…echoes that reverberate."
— Newsday
"There have not been many poet-biographers in this country…Epstein is part of [a] select company. Mr. Epstein's new book shows that poetry is at the heart of what made both Lincoln, and the country great."
— The New York Sun
Beautifully written . . . Epstein's portraits of the president and the poet, his sketches of a fascinating supporting cast, his depiction of Civil War Washington's mix of squalor and majesty . . . all are exquisitely exact. Lincoln and Whitman is an elegant book."
–The Providence Journal
"Whitman and Lincoln aren't the only two poets in the work; Epstein himself is a well-published poet, and the rhythms of verse inform his prose. Under his hand the nation's capital becomes a living character."
–St. Petersburg Times
"A revealing character study."
—ERIC FONER, The Washington Post
"Epstein memorably evokes the look and feel of Washington during the Civil War, the eerily adjacent lives there of Walt Whitman and Abraham Lincoln, and the frantic events that issued in the murder of our greatest president and the writing of our greatest poem, 'When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard Bloom'd.' Combining biography and history, his ingeniously constructed double narrative of personal development and national tragedy radiates humor, wonderment, and terror."
—KENNETH SILVERMAN, Pulitzer Prize–winning author of The Life and Times of Cotton Mather and Edgar A. Poe: Mournful Never-ending Remembrance
"Deftly written and carefully researched, this book uncovers fresh and often surprising connections between America's greatest poet and its greatest statesman. Daniel Mark Epstein reveals a political side to Whitman and a literary side to Lincoln, finding new subtleties of character and skill in each of these towering figures. Along the way, he re-creates nineteenth-century life in fascinating ways."
—DAVID S. REYNOLDS, City University of New York, author of the prize-winning Walt Whitman's America and Beneath the American Renaissance
"Perhaps only a writer who has produced both biography and poetry could have crafted such an illuminating, elegant book. The scholarship is excellent, the ideas provocative, and the writing simply sublime. Both Lincoln and Whitman—together with the long-vanished culture in which they lived—come vividly, sometimes startlingly, alive in Daniel Mark Epstein's luminous prose."
—HAROLD HOLZER, author of The Lincoln Image and co-chairman of the U.S. Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission


text:
Creative continues to punch itself into the headphone space with an update to their Aurvana In-Ear models, appropriately named the In-Ear 2. As the name suggests, they are an in-ear model, making bold claims of blocking 95% of external noise, but not offering any active noise cancellation like the Creative EP-3NC we looked at recently.
The construction is typically solid as you'd expect at this price point. The body of the headphones is formed from metal and finished in grey; they are sombre and serious in appearance, but look rather elegant at the same time. Distinctive to the design, and boasting to boost the audio performance is the grill on the rear of each unit. They look and feel like good quality, which is what you want from a set of headphones.
With a gold plug and oxygen-free copper cables, you'll find the body of the plug housing and cable divide are equally well-crafted. The cable gives you a total length of 130cm, plenty for average listening. The ear buds are light in weight too and we found them comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
In terms of accessories you aren't neglected either. You get a choice of silicon tips, with three different sizes and two sets of each, so if you are prone to losing them, you'll at least have a spare set. We found that the larger set of tips gave us a very comfortable fit; a good fit is essential for getting the best performance out of this type of in-ear headphone.
You also get a clamshell type case which opens to reveal a cable winder, so you can easily store your headphones safely. The customary cleaning tool is also included, useful if you are prone to the build-up of ear wax as it gives you something to dig the gunk out of your 'phones. Needless to say, that has never been a problem for this reviewer.
That claim of 95% noise blocking needs to be taken with a pinch of salt. If you can't achieve a snug fit, then it won't be possible and although Creative have tested these claims, in the real world it will come down to your ears and how well the headphones fit. The aim is to ensure that you don't have to turn the volume up to drown out everyday background noise and particularly aircraft noise. A double jack adapter for aircraft is also supplied for those who travel, although the storage case doesn't house this accessory.
With an excellent fit, we found the Aurvana In-Ear 2 lived up to their claims, effectively blocking external noise without us having to crank up the volume. The other advantage that a good fit brings with it is the enhanced delivery of bass. The notable downside is that any movement in the cable will be transferred up the wire and into your ears, so if you are walking, be prepared to hear and feel the cable moving around.
We tested the Aurvana In-Ear 2 headphones with a range of music across various genres. The In-Ear 2s coped well with those tracks that pushed a heavy bass line adding the depth that is sometimes missing from dance music with cheaper headphones. But it doesn't push the bass too far, so it doesn't overpower other types of music that are less dependent on their bass line.
As all-round headphones, we found the Aurvana In-Ear 2 to deliver rich and detailed audio. They don't offer the same sort of delivery as over the ear headphones do, but as we had achieved a perfect fit, we were very impressed with the quality of the audio. Equally they performed well with a range of movies and TV, again bringing plenty of detail and depth to movie soundtracks.
Comfortable, good quality construction, great sounding audio and with those little extras like the case and accessories, the Aurvana In-Ear 2s should be a serious consideration for those looking to upgrade their headphones without stepping over the £100 mark.
Pitched in at £90, you can be sure to find them for less online and should be a serious consideration if you are looking for a set of in-ear headphones. Cable noise is a given downside for this type of headphone and some might prefer foam tips rather than the supplied silicon, but for us, the Creative Aurvana In-Ear 2 headphones performed extremely well.


text:
THE SHOE FITS: Pick up any travel book that includes a section on a town or village or locale that happens to have a reputation for making art. The descriptive words get butterier -- "nestled" and "nook" and "romance" are very often trotted out -- and the pictures have an added glow. But there are only a few art towns that can create that inner butter and glow, rather than having to have it applied at a later date. Ojai is not only one, it is practically a leader in the butter-and-glow field. It creates its own inner light daily -- look to its famous Pink Moment, the time of day when the sky and mountains grow rosy -- and look to its funky denizens, its film scene, the hiking trails, and its robust art community for the butter. Those things just come naturally to the town that sits a pinch north of Ventura, give or take, and always have; John Lennon was drawn to the place, as are a number of actors, screenwriters, and, yep, the great comic master Sergio Aragones. Thus the annual art tour is a solid affair, as it should be; it has now been around for over three decades, and features dozens of local artists.
ARTISTS LIKE... painter Carolyn Fox, jewelry maker Elaine Unzicker, and Martha Moran, who works in stone stacking and sculptural forms. They'll all be inviting visitors into their studios on Saturday, Oct. 12 and Sunday, Oct. 13 during the Ojai Studio Artists Tour, a tour that wends all through the valley. That it will be the middle of October, and a fine fall weekend to boot, is a plus. That it is the 30th anniversary of a venerable happening is another. And, as with any fun arts tour, there shall be pluses yet to discover. Want to go on your own? A self-guided tour ticket is twenty bucks, but there are guided options, too.


text:
Before it can create a music superstar, "The X Factor" has to become a TV sensation itself. And the odds are in its favor.
The talent competition imported from the U.K. may be the most buzzed series about of the new TV season, and no one's buzzing about it more than creator Simon Cowell, who hopes the Midas Touch he applied to another Brit translation, "American Idol," will produce just as much television gold.
PopcornBiz takes you inside the chatter from the all-star team Cowell's assembled – including his bicker-y former "Idol" judge Paula Abdul – to learn why, with $5 million and an major recording contract at stake, "The X Factor" may be the biggest reality talent competition yet.
U.S. & World
Simon Cowell (Judge, Creator and Executive Producer): I wouldn't have made the show unless I thought it was going to be different. We see this as a game-changer. We're going to try and change the rules. We're going to try and find a completely different kind of contestant. Our job as judges is to find people who've got star quality, turn them into stars, and I've got a panel who can do that. For me, because I've worked on 'American Idol' and 'The X Factor' for seven years, the shows were completely different, even though they were both talent competitions. Our style is we pretty much show the audience everything.
Paula Abdul (Judge): When we appear together on 'The X Factor,' it will have been three years since Simon and I sat next to each other. I'm telling you right now I don't think about what I'm going to do, how I'm going to be. This is a real reality show, and you are going to get a real inside view without manipulation, because I think that the television-viewing audience, they are too savvy. This is a different kind of show. What you see is what you get – the good, the bad, and the ugly – and I think it's a show that really gets behind the scenes as well.
Cowell: We've held back a lot for the first show in terms of what I would call different types of contestants to what you've seen before: very, very different backstories, the kind of stories I don't think other shows would put on, but we are. And I think you'll hopefully enjoy it as much as I enjoyed making it when you watch it. It's quite edgy, it's very raw, it's real life, but it's a talent show, so the ones we thought were talented we put on the show, but they are different to what you've seen before.
Abdul: This panel feels real solid and tight. We all know what our positions are. We all come from an area of expertise and success within that. We bring experience. We bring stage performance. We bring amazing success as record producers and executives, producers, stage design and directing. There's a tremendous amount of talent on the panel.
Cowell: What I've seen with the show in the last couple of years in the U.K. with the kind of artists we've attracted the artists coming through are not just competing, they are murdering the opposition in the U.K. at the moment. And we hope to do the same thing with the show here. That was always the sole reason for making a show like this: can you find a different kind of artist who doesn't just work within a competition show – because we're always going to have a winner – but actually can compete with the big artists out there around the world? That's what you hope is going to happen, and I will die trying until the end to do that.
L.A. Reid (Judge): With this platform, we are collectively seeing more talent in a day than I could see perhaps in a year in my job as a record executive. We are auditioning sometimes 50-60 contestants a day. I may see 50, 60 in a two‑year period, right? So just the numbers certainly increases the opportunities for us to discover the next generation of stars – and we are finding them, too. We are finding artists, contestants that we really believe to be true stars of tomorrow.
Nicole Scherzinger (Judge): I was honored to be put on the judges' panel when Simon asked me, because I had been in that exact place. That's how I got my start 10 years ago, through that exact audition process on 'Popstars,' and I know exactly what they are going through. I've been there. I can empathize with them. I come from a different place of compassion and understanding.
Abdul: Everyone says for all these years, 'You're so kind and nurturing.' Well, guess what? My whole career started behind the scenes, nurturing raw, untrained talent and helping iconic talent continue to soar. That's who I am. That's my experience, getting these acts ready and getting out there and performing. I have a background in set design. I have a background in stage directing. I have a background in understanding cameras and lighting. Simon's going to wish that he never hired me.
Cowell: If I didn't trust the public, then we wouldn't have the audience vote, and we'd make all the decisions ourselves. So I think you've got to be careful what kind of contestants you put in because at the end of the day, I think it should be a talent competition, not a popularity competition. And what we're trying to do is expand the voting system on this show, which is to allow as many people to vote in as many different ways as possible, like online voting. I have to trust the audience, and I think they will get it right.
Abdul: I get Simon. He gets me. I understand the nature of reality television. For me, I'm here to help make the best show ever, and Simon knows that. We get each other and you need that sense of familiarity and security in knowing that there's something that works while we're going to be showing everyone the differences of the show. It is completely different. It's like riding a bike. It's just that I'm riding at a higher level of intensity with a little power pack on the back.
Cowell: The great thing about working with Paula is within about five minutes of filming she's not aware that the cameras are on anymore, and she'll fight with you over something – sometimes important, often not. And that's what I like about her: she is prepared to argue. So it's like getting an old dog back from the rescue pound – It's kind of grateful to see you and the relationship is back intact.
Steve Jones (Host): It was kind of like mommy and daddy had a trial separation, but now, they are back together, but they still argue all the time. It's tough for us kids.
Cowell: Paula can be a bit wacky at times, but Nicole actually wasn't far behind in a fantastically self-centered way, which she wasn't aware of and which I found really amusing. Every city we went to – and Nicole wasn't aware of this – she changed her accent; when she was in New York she had this kind of Brooklyn thing going on, and then when she went to Dallas she became this Southern belle. I mean, she just changes every city you go into.
Scherzinger: I always say that we're one big happily dysfunctional family. Simon just loves to get under my and Paula's skin, but we just adore him for that. I've actually met my match. I actually found a bigger diva than myself.
Abdul: I was part of the start of 'Idol' and it was an amazing close to a decade. If we get a success like that it would be outstanding. It would be phenomenal. Simon says that were going to get bigger ratings. I'm not concerned about ratings. I'm not concerned about any of that. I'm concerned about showing something really unique.
Cowell: With regards to the question can we beat 'Idol': you don't enter something for the silver medal. You do it because you want to be number one. And for the next few months, we're going to shove everything at this to try and make it the best show on TV…It's been 10 years since we did this. It's a new decade. We've got to find a nuance, and we've got to design and make the show for people who have never seen those shows before.
"The X Factor" debuts tonight at 8 PM ET on Fox


text:
PRICE: Available on Request l Shown in gleaming 14K White Gold with 1.1 ct.tw.
Beautiful Princess Cut Diamond Square Halo Drop Pendant with 16 perfectly matched Round Brilliant Cut Certified Diamonds in Micro Pave. All of our Necklaces are Made to Order, available in different qualities and can be customized to your budget.
METAL: Available in 14K White Gold, 14K Yellow Gold, 18K White Gold, 18K Yellow Gold and Platinum.
DIAMOND: Certified & Canadian Certified Diamonds
Average Colour: G/H Average Clarity: VS/SI
Explore our Diamond Global Network database with GIA Certified, Conflict-Free, Canadian & Fancy Coloured Diamonds.
Please Call for Pricing & Availability: +1 416-509-6797
CERTIFICATE: Complimentary Value Replacement Appraisal and Diamond Grading Report provided by our Independent Certified Gemmologist.
Take home your perfect Halo Pendant Necklace by Requesting a Quote


text:
Grand Rapids, Mi — The YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids (MI) recently completed its annual Suits From Suits campaign, which provided youngsters ages 6 to 10 with, in some cases, their first-ever swimsuit. The campaign raised more than 500 new and gently used swimsuits, along with funds for water safety and swimming lessons for more than 280 children.
The Y partnered with the Paul Goebel Group, an insurance group in Grand Rapids, MI, for the campaign. Suits From Suits is an annual event to improve the quality of life for the greater Grand Rapids community.


text:
The Micasaverde & Vera community forums have moved Click here to visit the new Vera Control community forum
i was trying to find some info here on how to add a Dooya RF motor but could not find them, so after searching on the net and many trials, i was able to add the Dooya RF motor to Vera controller and i though i will list the steps here if anybody is facing the same problem:1 - configure Dooya motor with its own RF remote2- go to Vera Devices, find your RFXtrx controller, click on the right arrow to open the options3- Click on New Device4- in the category list select: DC106, Yooda, Rohrmotor24 RMF5- type a device name that will show in the vera devices6- give the device an ID, i used 7 (my lucky number)7- Select a unit code, i selected 7 too8- click create9- Go back to the RFXtrx options page and click on managed devices10- Select the newly created device11- now on the Dooya RF remote that you already paired in the first step, you have a programming button named R2 as i remember (or B2!!) *- Press the programming button on the remote once and the motor will move a little, then press the button again, the motor will move a little again that will put the motor in inclusion mode12- go back to the RFXtrx page in the managed devices, after selecting the newly created device, in the Command option select Confirm Pair (it should be selected by default)13- Click on Run button, and the motor will move a little.Done!now go back to the devices list in vera page, and search for the newly created device, try up and down, they should be working fine now.hope i didn't forget any step along the way 😊have a nice day all,shady
snipAlso I am able to fully extend or fully close, none of the % settings seem to work?
Quote from: PrincessCleavage on February 05, 2018, 07:13:02 amsnipAlso I am able to fully extend or fully close, none of the % settings seem to work?I've never been able to set blind position using %, it's a RFXCom thing as there is no Instant Status, ie the Comms are one way only, RFXCom to Motor, there is no position feedback.
^^^You could, I had thought similar for the Awnings, so they retracted as the Sun passed into shadow.It involved using the Heliotrope PI & PLEG.I played around with it for a bit until it started to do my head in and gave up. (I couldn't and still can't get the properties to evaluate)IIRC, RTS posted a PLEG Ramp solution for use with a dimmer, which would/should work in your situation.
Can't help with Luup, I'm a PLEG man myself


text:
Producer Maureen Giannone hits the streets to take on the arduous task of scouting the country's hottest destinations for upcoming episodes of 1st Look on NBC. Here's what she found this week.
Personally, while vacationing, stilettos and clubs aren't my scene. But when in Miami, you kind of have to follow suit. My secret to surviving the constant glam of this flashy city is Townhouse hotel in South Beach.
Whether in town for business or leisure, this hotel exudes holiday with its clean and crisp white-linen decor, peaceful atmosphere, and its noteworthy dining and lounge scene. In your room, you're greeted by a red-and-white signature beach ball to match the mod-chic vibe. Relaxation starts immediately with the scent of that ocean breeze and your gloriously oversized bed and shower. Even with the beach steps away (and in-house Beach Cruiser rentals!), it's hard to leave your suite behind.
In terms of dining, Nobu is usually a front-runner in any city where it rolls in. But in the cellar of the Townhouse, one of Miami's best-kept secrets for sushi is BONDST. An outpost of the famous Manhattan restaurant, BONDSt's Chef Mike Hiraga takes customers on a journey of flavors and ingredients. Zagat Miami says for "fabulously creative sushi" with "the best sushi tuna on the planet," eat at BONDST.
And finally, in the Miami heat, you can't miss the Townhouse rooftop lounge. By day, head upstairs to enjoy the sun on wonderful chaise beds and canopies. And by night, the heat continues on this rooftop when it transforms into one of the city's hippest social scenes with famed parties both Thursday and Saturday nights. Aside from the tight beats and delicious drinks, you've got to see this view.
Tune in to the "Best of Hotel Scenes" on 1st Look this Saturday after Saturday Night Live on NBC.
Producer Scouts: South Beach's Townhouse Hotel
Producer Maureen Giannone hits the streets to take on the arduous task of scouting the country's hottest destinations for upcoming episodes of 1st Look on NBC. Here's what she found this week.


text:
Did you ever see that a boat flies? You can watch it right now. This video shows the ghost boat flies in the air. Actually this is a Natural phenomenon; it is an optical illusion (visual illusion). In an optical illusion, the visually perceived images are differing from objective reality. Watch this is really amazing.Read More...
Tiger Woods Amazing Shots Ever
Tiger Woods is god of golf. His full name is Eldrick Tont Woods but world knows him as Tiger Woods. He was born in 1975 and named as the most successful golf player all time. He holds the world rank 1 in golf and also world rank one for highest earning athlete. This video contains a bit of amazing shots in his career of golf.Read More...
Labels: Amazing People, Amazing Skills
Super Strong Guy with Super Arms Amazing
This video shows super strong guys with super strong arms. You can check their strength by trying to do a one drill they are doing. Their body shape is really matching with their strength. Their dedication and huge training leads this kind of skills to them. Start today you can impress your girl friend soon.Read More...
Labels: Amazing Skills
Amazing Strengthen Shaolin Monk Balances on Two Fingers
Read More...
This is a nice comment I got for this video and I will publish on this
This is a nice comment I got for this video and I will publish on this
"wake up at 4 a.m - six hours of practicing kung fu, small break, 6 hours of studying Zen, break, some cleaning maybe, some eating, drinking, meditation, sleep.
Our day: wake up at 4 a.m. to be at work at 6. Work until 5-6 p.m., come home, do some cleaning and throw some meal in your face, turn on the TV until fall asleep.
They: powerful, studied, trained, amazing,legendary
We: old, tired, damaged, weak, boring ... and all that for a shit of money which isn't enough at all"
Labels: Amazing Skills
Spider Cat Follow the Laser Light Amazing
This is really an amazing cat that climbs the wall really like a spider man. Actually cats can't climb a 90 degree wall like this. But this cat is different and it can climb nearly 2m of the wall and stable at some position in the wall. I think this cat got amazing legs like gecko. This is short video but amazing one shows the unbelievable skills from a cat.Read More...
Labels: Amazing Animals
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)


text:
The board of trustees heard a first reading for a proposed ban on retail and medical marijuana sales through Dec. 31, 2016.
"The state is not sure what the rules are, so waiting till they do makes sense," said Mayor Val Truelsen.
Another concern was the costs of regulating marijuana shops.
"Seventy percent of a shop's product must be grown by the owner," said town attorney Mike Green. "The inspections for electrical systems in the growing facilities, along with additional security by the sheriff's office would add expenses for the town."
Trustee Colette Heeney questioned the wisdom of shutting out potential new businesses .
Interim manager Lana Hancock noted that if passed, the board could rescind the resolution at any time. Whether to sell marijuana could also be decided by a vote of the town.
The proposed ban is only for commercial sales. It would not affect individual rights of adults to possess, consume, and grow marijuana under Amendment 64 .
A final reading and public hearing on the proposed ordinance will take place on July 14.


text:
Marquis Daniels, hoping for a fresh restart with the Celtics [team stats] after an injury-plagued 2009-10 season, just agreed to terms with his old team on his second straight one-year contract - this time a $2.5 million deal.
Daniels' return is more a reflection of what's left on the free-agent market than his performance in Boston last year. Marquis started the season strong but after a torn ligament in his left thumb he was never the same. Marquis has a reputation as someone who's injury prone as he's missed 30% of the games he could appear in. The Celtics saw evidence of that last year as the swing man ended up appearing in the second lowest total games of his career (51), averaging 5.6 pts and 1.3 assists.
However, with the departure of Tony Allen and the weak class of free-agent wings that will play for the veteran minimum, Marquis Daniels made the most sense. The Celtics could actually offer Daniels more than any other team due to the "Non-Bird Rights" they hold with him, which allowed them to bring him back for up to 120% of last year's salary - which explains his raise. Unknown 7/22/2010 08:34:00 PM Tweet Edit


text:
So I finally finished the series last night. I've got to say, I do not understand for the life of me what everyone has against the final season. I loved every episode of it, including the ending.
I was expecting a train wreck, but every single character got a fitting send-off (except for Skulls and Racetrack. I would watch an entire series of those two just giving each other shit in a raptor for an hour,) and the ending just reinforced the whole cyclical theme of the show.
Heck, even my wife liked it, even though trying to explain to her who everyone was since she only started watching it with me in the third season was nightmarish (even with a dry erase board!)
Thoughts? Why does everyone hate the ending so much?


text:
February 15, 2013 – Las Cruces, NM - On this edition of PUENTES, Emily Guerra bridges the community with Network Volunteer Center Volunteer Coordinator, Genevieve Kirk, and RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) Volunteer at the Munson Senior Center, Allan Daily. They have both served in the Peace Corps and will tell us about the importance of volunteering, opportunities and the commitment to serve in our communities.
The Network Volunteer Center supports and encourages volunteers to contribute their valuable time and talents through volunteer service. The Network recruits, orients and places volunteers 18 years of age and older in community service assignments throughout the City of Las Cruces.
To learn more about The Network, contact the Volunteer Coordinator at 575-528-3035. You can also explore volunteer opportunities at the 2013 Las Cruces Volunteer Fair on Saturday, February 23rd from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Branigan Cultural Center, 501 Main Street.


text:
0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic.
People moaned when we showed no ambition. Folk are still moaning now that were showing ambition.Everton that.
Dont think its the bids that are the issue; its the time spent with themWhy not drop a hopeful bid?The problem we had was that we spent too much time chasing the unrealistic ones and didnt spend the majority of time on the realistic ones
There is showing ambition then doing things for show. The club's hierarchy know that they dont have a cat in hells chance of signing sanchez but will again try and use it as good PR....unfortunatly for so many years this has been the Everton way. I remember when we were apparantly after moutinho.... funnily enough he was up for it and bill shit himself as he didn't have the money leaving him high and dry.
Yay, another number 10
I don't see why we don't just work harder at trying to identify the next Sanchez or Costa.Paying for the best backroom staff -- scouts, data analysts, etc. -- would surely pay more dividends than chasing after every huge name who's about to leave their club.
How embarrassing. Massively going off Moshiri recently. Dont think he has a fucking clue.
Page created in 0.051 seconds with 26 queries.