text:
Contribute to ReadWriteThink / RSS / FAQs / Site Demonstrations / Contact Us / About Us
ReadWriteThink couldn't publish all of this great content without literacy experts to write and review for us. If you've got lessons plans, videos, activities, or other ideas you'd like to contribute, we'd love to hear from you.
Find the latest in professional publications, learn new techniques and strategies, and find out how you can connect with other literacy professionals.
Teacher Resources by Grade
|1st - 2nd
|3rd - 4th
|5th - 6th
|7th - 8th
|9th - 10th
|11th - 12th
Home › Classroom Resources › Lesson Plans
Lesson Plan
Making the Cut: Revising Memoirs by Detecting Clutter and Confusion
|6 – 10
|Lesson Plan Type
|Standard Lesson
|Estimated Time
|Two 50-minute sessions
|Lesson Author
Tualatin, Oregon
Rather than extending a two-page paper to five pages by restating facts, philosophizing aimlessly, or simply making things up, students engaging in this revision lesson learn how to make the cut. In Zinsser's guide for nonfiction writing, he states, The secret of good writing is to strip every sentence to its cleanest components (7). Students begin by improving a slide presentation by removing pictures. They translate their reasons for cutting pictures into reasons for cutting unnecessary words and sections from their own memoirs. Experiencing revision instead of memorizing the rules of revision helps students move beyond head knowledge of Zinsser's clean-and-cut advice to individually adopted practice.
Zinsser, William. On Writing Well (6th ed.). New York: Harper Perennial, 1998. Print.
Slide presentation: Vienna
Slide presentation: Amusement Parks
Sample Memoir: The Unexpected Dangers of Roasting Marshmallows
Flower et al. suggest a cognitive process model for writing, which is based on hypotheses and research regarding the differences between novice and expert writers (21). Flower et al. and Hayes describe revision as a process that depends on the writers initial ability to detect problems in the text. Because novice writers often struggle to diagnose areas for revision, they resort to basic proofreading rather than revising word choice, organization, and content for meaning. This lesson is designed to help students detect revision needs by using visual literacy knowledge as a scaffold for identifying revision issues in their own writing.
Flower, Linda, Hayes, John R., Carey, Linda, Schriver, Karen, & Stratman, James. "Detection, Diagnosis, and the Strategies of Revision." College Composition & Communication 37.1 (1986): 16-55. Print.
Hayes, John R. Modeling and Remodeling Writing. Written Communication 29.3 (2012): 369-388. Print.


text:
The Dish
All the News That's Fit to Eat
From Russia, With Love—Once people find out what I do for a living (you're looking at it), it's almost certain that a funny, sometimes emotional conversation about food will follow. It happens a lot, but no two are identical. Food is the great connector, intrinsically bound up in the fabric of every person's life, no matter what their background. Everyone's got to eat, after all.
Restaurant Review
Midori Sushi
Pop in and try the Viagra sauce
I am amazed by how many truly great sushi restaurants there are in Albuquerque. Our fair city is strikingly cosmopolitan when it comes to cuisine, and nothing pleases me (and my raw fish-loving palate) more than the rumor of yet another place to get a good caterpillar roll, or a hot, salty bowl of miso soup sprinkled with green onions. Somebody should write Miso Soup for the Soul, because I'm buying, and I know you're with me, fellow foodies.
Have Fork, Will Travel
Making $100 Cabernet
Behind the scenes during harvest on a Napa Valley Vineyard
"It takes a lot of beer to make wine." I heard this expression at least a dozen times during my visit to a winery in Napa Valley, Calif. My friend Amy lived and worked on the vineyard, and I had a trip to San Francisco scheduled at the end of October. I thought it would be fun to take a few extra days to visit her in Napa.
Chowtown Restaurant Guide
Chowtown Chowdown
It's another week, and you know what that means! Time to tell you about more places to go order take out from. Keep supporting local is all I can say.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Mark Yarnell
About the Author
Mark Yarnell is on the faculty of the nation's only college-certified course in network marketing at the University of Illinois, Chicago. Well known for his philanthropy, he has created a $70 million multilevel marketing organization that spans 20 countries. He divides their time between Reno, Nevada, and Gstaad, Switzerland.


text:
Your business generates more data today than it used to a few years ago.
Our new training course on data management teaches you how to handle this data so that it adds value and prevents data quality issues.
Our data quality and data management specialists from our Data Management Competence Centre designed this training course to provide a framework for creating and utilising data to gain business advantage. The course material was compiled over a long period through both internal and customer project work. During the course, you will learn how to apply data management methods and tools to put your business ahead of your competitors.
The course takes a practical approach to data quality & data management and you will learn how to use the methods and tools presented. We will be testing these on real life examples so that you become familiar with how to handle your own data.
- Trends and concepts
- Common terminology for data quality and data management
- How to organise your data
- How to find, recognise and review data
- How to fix and prevent data quality issues
- How to get value from your data
- Business impact and value of data
- Return on investment
Various locations
This course is offered as open enrollment session at various locations; Arnhem (the Netherlands), Oslo (Norway).
Oslo course-specific information
We have partnered with Urban Infrastructure Partner AS, the company that runs Oslo, Trondheim and Bergen City Bike. The examples and group work are designed based on the open data from their website. Testing the methods and tools using these examples will give you a good feeling of how you can handle your own data.
Target Audience:
This course is aimed at those creating, capturing and analysing data, such as data stewards, data owners, data architects, IT managers, business data owners, chief data officers and those responsible for master data management.
Related courses
For those interested in data communication, please note that we also offer a two day training course on IEC 61850 (November 16 & 17, 2020).
Customized courses
On request, the Energy Academy can also provide in-house training and customize the course to cover your own data and data management system. Content, location and duration of the course can be adapted to your specific wishes. Please contact us for more information.


text:
41 Valentine's Day Crafts: Valentine's Day Cards, Gifts and More
Bonus: Get our newsletter & special offers for free. We will not share or sell your email address. View our Privacy Policy
Latest Comments
"try here https//www.everythingplasticcanvas.com/"
"Try this website for almost everything, including welcome signs and/or kits too. https//www.everythingplasticcanvas.com/"
"Dead link, here is current one https//rajiscrafthobby.blogspot.com/2016/12/glitte == r-jar-and-wax-tealight-candle.html"
Felted Swirl Wreath
We are adding the craft to your Craft Projects.
The project was added to your Craft Projects.
Click here to view your Craft Projects.
Welcome your honey home with this colorful Felted Swirl Wreath from I Love to Create. This simple Valentine's Day decor is great for hanging on your front door or above the mantel in your living room. You could even make this a Christmas wreath by using red felt instead of pink. This is a simple and fun project you can have out year round, and anyone can make it!
Find this project and many more in our free eBook, How to Make Tie Dye Shirts, Decor, and More: 18 Tie Dye Patterns!
- Aleene's® Fabric Fusion™ Permanent Dry Cleanable Fabric Adhesive™
- Tulip® One-Step Fashion Dye™ in Fuchsia and Red
- Tulip® Cordless Heat Setting Tool™
- 1 300-pack Clear Tulip® Glam-It-Up!™ Iron-On Crystals™
- Plastic disposable tablecloth or large plastic garbage bag
- Floral and Craft Ring,12" flat compressed wood
- Cutting mat
- Ribbon, 2" wide coordinating color and ¼" wide for hanger
- Wool Felt, white ¾ yd. 18" wide
- Rotary Cutter
- Rotary Cutter Clear Ruler
- Fabric, cotton scrap of coordinating solid color
Wet the felt with water and spin on gentle in the washer to remove excess water.
Cover work surface with plastic.
Wearing rubber gloves, add water to the top of the dye bottles. Replace cap tightly. Shake until dye is dissolved.
Place damp felt on plastic. Squeeze the Red dye onto about half of the felt.
Starting on the edge of the Red and overlapping an inch or so, squeeze the Fuchsia dye onto half of the remaining area of the felt but saving about 1" of dye in the bottle. Add water to the dye in the bottle to make a light pink and squeeze onto the remaining felt. The felt should be saturated in dye. Wearing gloves, press down with fingertips to push the dye into areas that are lighter.
Cover felt with plastic. Let sit 4-6 hours. Wash in a large load of water with a small amount of laundry soap on a gentle cycle. Line dry.
Using a cutting mat and rotary cutter, cut ½" strips from every section of color. Where the dye over lapped it will be a little different color and this is desirable so cut those areas also.
Make a snip in the end of the cotton coordinating fabric and tear 2" strips. Glue the end of a strip to the craft ring with Fabric Fusion and start wrapping around the ring. Proceed by adding another strip, gluing as needed while wrapping to keep in place until it is completely covered.
Feeling through the fabric, find one of the small holes and push a pencil or sharp object through to the back. Run the small piece of ribbon through and tie in a knot to use as a hanger.
Starting with the lightest color of felt, add a small amount of Fabric Fusion and roll into a pinwheel continuing by adding another color with glue ending with the Red felt. Change the order of color to make all of the pinwheels unique and ranging in size from 3" to 2 ¼". Refer to photo.
Arrange the pinwheels on the ring until they fit all the way around while touching each other. Squeeze out Fabric Fusion onto the ring under the area where each pinwheel will sit pressing pinwheel into the glue.
Cut ¼" strips of the red felt and roll into small 1" pinwheels and glue on top of each intersection where the large pinwheels meet. Glue in place and press down with fingertips. Let dry flat.
Attach the red and pink crystals with the heat tool. Scatter them over the large and small pinwheels. Pressure is not needed when attaching the crystals as long as the tip of the tool is touching the crystal.
- Tie the 2" ribbon into a bow and glue the backside of the loops at the top, onto the pinwheels.
Free projects, giveaways, exclusive partner offers, and more straight to your inbox!
Tags / Related Topics
Your Recently Viewed Projects
Images from other crafters
Report Inappropriate Comment
Are you sure you would like to report this comment? It will be flagged for our moderators to take action.
Thank you for taking the time to improve the content on our site.
Project of the Day
Crochet Stash Baskets
These handy baskets can be used to store any number of household items. Great for the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and even the… Continue reading: "Crochet Stash Baskets"
What's Hot
Something worth saving?
- SAVE all your favorite crafts
- ADD personal notes
- QUICKLY reference your crafts
Sponsored Content
Our Newest Projects & Articles
- Mystical Mitts
- Easy Fabric Basket In Any Size
- "Vintage" Gold Leaf Resin Bangles
- Diy Raised Garden Bed
- Shrink Plastic and Resin Jewelry
- Cinch Stripes Backpack
- Mini Angel Amigurumi
- Criss Cross Mini Tote
- Mini Bears In Stockings
- Diy Deck Rail Planter
Free eBooks
- 11 Crochet Shawl Patterns: Crochet Poncho Patterns, Free Easy Crochet Patterns and More
- 12 Knitted Scarf Patterns: Fabulous Free Knitting Patterns for Beginners
- 14 Free Crochet Patterns for Babies and Toddlers
- 16 Free Crochet Hat Patterns, Scarves, and Gloves
- 22 Free Crochet Patterns: Afghan Patterns, Crochet Hats, and More
- 24 Quick and Easy Knitting Patterns
- 7 Adult Coloring Pages
- 8 Free Apron Sewing Patterns
- Easy Lace Knitting Patterns
- Quick & Easy Decoupage: 12 Fabulous Mod Podge Projects for Your Home


text:
Over the last 2 months I invested a load of time to optimize the language / codepage handling of the OpenMTBMaps and VeloMaps.
I had originally implemented a very complicated system trying to make any map also usable for non native speakers of the local language – or people not able to read e.g. arabic or kyrillic. In the end this was a rather big mess even though it kinda worked for many countries.
Now I've changed this – there are local language maps – which are in local language and local script – as well as maps in english for any country that does not primarily use latin script.
Also all continent maps (except Antarctica and North America which are anyhow english speaking) are now available in English or local Language. South-America/Central America english maps will be available for download starting tomorrow.
The theory of how it should work is laid out below – if you find things not working drop a comment. Especially if you find OSM keys which are not implemented yet and would help in improving the map translations.
Map Updates:
Maps that are not available in English – will be updated weekly as […]


text:
Hacker KaKaRoTo (real name Youness Alaoui), the fellow behind the PSFreedom jailbreak, thinks the PS3 is now secure after the recent firmware update.
"Their previous errors were epic fails, it doesn't mean they can't do an epic save either.. they seem to have fixed all the issues they had," Youness Alaoui wrote on Twitter (via CVG).
KaKaRoTo says that it looks like the PS3 has been re-secured, adding, "but it doesn't mean it can't be broken again from scratch." Does that mean KaKaRoTo is up to the challenge?
"Oh, before I get flooded: NOT BY ME! I don't really care about breaking the PS3, I'm fine with what we have so far. I will NOT work on it!!"
Sony is currently battling
rapper hacker George Hotz, who helped crack the PS3 and posted the console's source code online.
Youness Alaoui (KaKaRoToKS) on Twitter [Twitter via CVG]


text:
(PRWEB) December 27, 2012
Paradigm Learning, a leader in corporate education and communications, has won a 2012 Gold MarCom Award from the Association of Marketing & Communication Professionals for excellence in the Specialty Web/Microsite category.
The MarCom Awards are considered the largest of their kind. Overall, more than 6,000 entries were submitted to the annual competition — by corporate marketing departments, advertising agencies, public relations firms, design shops, production components and others from around the world — for judging by the industry's top professionals.
Judges honored Paradigm Learning for http://www.impact5forleaders.com, a specialty microsite that shows Fortune 1000 companies how they can transform their managers into accountable business leaders through an educational discovery learning program called Impact5: The Business of Leadership Game®. The website, which invites visitors to take a leadership impact quiz, download a white paper and view program videos, earned the honor for its interactivity and games, eye-catching graphic design, and compelling writing.
Those appealing, time-tested elements are found in every Paradigm Learning corporate training program. Each one incorporates proven learning techniques that engage participants and persuade them to take action as a direct result of the experience. By utilizing, for example, the advertising principle of "AIDA" — Attention, Interest, Desire and Action — during the development of its business games, simulations and Discovery Maps®, Paradigm Learning has created a portfolio of award-winning educational and communication programs for corporate clients since 1994.
The Impact5 specialty website earned its MarCom Award by blending advertising-style approaches with a powerful educational approach known as discovery learning. Research shows that when people are immersed in a learning environment through clever, attention-getting and memorable situations that appeal to human nature, they are motivated to explore new information and concepts. Discovery learning accelerates the learning process and results in higher levels of engagement and retention than do traditional communication methods.
Paradigm Learning is a leader in learning innovation, offering unique education and communication programs to organizations around the world. Its award-winning, classroom-based business games, simulations and Discovery Maps®, enhanced with online options, customizing and consulting services, have been used by leading companies since 1994.
Paradigm Learning's core methodology is discovery learning, a powerful educational approach that engages employees, accelerates learning and increases retention.
Fully customized programs and tailored ready-made programs span such areas as business acumen, talent leadership, employee alignment, leadership accountability, team building, project management, organizational change and change management.
The company's flagship business acumen training program, "Zodiak®: The Game of Business Finance and Strategy," has been conducted with more than 1 million managers and employees worldwide.
The MarCom Awards (http://www.marcomawards.com) are administered and judged by the Association of Marketing & Communication Professionals, an international association consisting of several thousand creative professionals. The association oversees awards and recognition programs, provides judges, and sets standards for excellence.
Judges are industry professionals who look for companies and individuals whose talents exceed a high standard of excellence and whose work serves as a benchmark for the industry. Winners were selected from over 200 categories in seven forms of media and communication efforts — marketing, publications, marketing/promotion, public service/pro bono, creativity and electronic/interactive.


text:
Welcome to Watch List, where we identify five things tonight that may possibly be worth reneging on your promise to attend your son's piano recital. LET'S GO!
This is an NBC website, but I promise you I'm being objective when I say this: You really, really need to watch this show. It's better than "The Office." Along with "Modern Family," it's one of the two best comedies on TV. There are at least two lines each week that shimmer with genius. "If I wanted to bring a large number of deviled eggs, but I didn't want to share them with anyone else, can you guarantee fridge space?" Yes, yes, that wins. "Parks and Rec" was picked up for a third season, and show creator Michael Schur recently tweeted that cast member Nick Offerman tore off his shirt in delight at the news. I am tempted to join him in doing so. Watch this show. ANTICIPATION: HIGH, YET IN A VERY SUBTLE AND CLEVER WAY
PROJECT RUNWAY – 10PM (Lifetime)
"Models of the Runway" is KILLING this show. Last week, they let one of the models SPEAK on the runway. STOP. Stop this right now. I don't care about these models. They are cattle. Very thin, very gaunt cattle. This show has become a slave to its dopey spinoff that no one watches. They can't mix up the challenges too much, because the models need to be on every episode. So no more dressing up pro wrestlers, or divorcees, or anything fun like that. This annoys me. Greatly. Memo to Lifetime: Create some other model competition show that doesn't ruin the franchise you just paid a jillion dollars for. Also, I will fight the judges if they kick Anthony off. He's a delight. ANTICIPATION: UP THERE, BUT WITH A FAINT WHIFF OF CATTINESS
This is Michael Vick's reality show. Join Michael as he drops off his dry cleaning, eats at the Taco Bell drive thru, and doesn't hurt dogs. ANTICIPATION: HOLD ME BACK WITH A LEASH
Spike Lee's controversial minstrel show comedy from 2000 remains, like many Lee films, an utterly watchable mess. I cannot begin to tell you how much I enjoyed Damon Wayans' affected accent in this film. It's like the angriest, most pretentious accent ever. I want him to record my voice mail message in that voice. ANTICIPATION: ON YOUR RADAR NOW, ISN'T IT?
IRON CHEF AMERICA – 8PM (Food Network)
It's Iron Chef Flay versus Michael Smith. What's the secret ingredient? GUMPTION. ANTICIPATION: DROOLY.
Watch List: "Parks and Rec," Michael Vick
Welcome to Watch List, where we identify five things tonight that may possibly be worth reneging on your promise to attend your son's piano recital. LET'S GO!


text:
|Biosequences .. Software .. Molbio soft .. Network News .. FTP
I have cloned a plasmid encoding a LexA-fusion protein which I want to use for the yeast two hybrid screen. This bait-plasmid alone or together with the empty VP16 vector allows already growth of the transformed yeast clones on plates lacking His but they stay white on X-gal plates.With a positiv control, a known interacting protein fused to VP16, the yeast transformants grow on plates lacking His and turn to dark blue on X-gal plates. The background growth of the bait on plates lacking His can not be suppressed by 3-aminotriazole (I titrated all concentrations up to 200 mM). My question is: Has anybody made a two hybrid screen by monitoring the interaction only with the blue color? Please give me a message to: iwolf at fhcrc.org Thank you.


text:
Fly to Managua with KLM
Together with our global network, we as KLM Royal Dutch Airlines offer flights to Managua, serving Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA). Have any questions about your flight? No worries, our social service desk is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! Simply get in touch with us via Facebook, Messenger, Twitter or WhatsApp. We're always happy to help!
Top Managua attractions
- Puerto Salvador Allende: a lakeside complex with over 20 different restaurants.
- Plaza de la Revolución: "Revolution Square", a landmark with a tall graffiti monument to the famous guerrilla Che Guevara.
- Catedral Metropolitana Inmaculada Concepción de María: a beautiful cathedral.
- Centro Comercial Galerías Santo Domingo: a shopping mall.
- Parque Acuático Salvador Allende: a water park.
What's the best way to get around Managua?
There are many reliable and frequent bus lines to travel around Managua. However, most buses do not accept cash payments and a pre-paid card must be used to travel. These cards can be difficult to acquire so you should make sure to have this arranged before you need to travel. Alternatively, look for a bus that will accept cash. Taxis are a good option if you cannot acquire a card, or you can hire your own vehicle.
What's the weather in Managua?
It's always warm in Managua! The lowest average temperature is a sunny 26°C (79°F), while average temperatures can reach highs of 29°C (84°F), so you'll need your sun cream!
Weather in Managua
Powered by: OpenWeatherMap.org
27 °CWednesday12/08/2020
32 °CThursday13/08/2020
31 °CFriday14/08/2020
27 °CSaturday15/08/2020
25 °CSunday16/08/2020
29 °CMonday17/08/2020
28 °CTuesday18/08/2020
*All amounts are in BHD. Taxes and carrier surcharges included. No booking fee applicable.


text:
Life changing events led to Learning the vegan world.
Hi all,
I am completely new to all of this about 4 weeks in and extremely overwhelmed. My mother was just diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. I was immediately introduced to A vegan (8 year cancer survivor) who led me to this lifestyle. Along with trying to prolong my amazing mothers life, I can't even believe what I have learned in the past few weeks about my own eating habits. I am just horrified at what we out in our bodies these days. Sadly my moms oncologist said a lot of cancers today are environmental. And cancer is huge and on the rise. He says it has all to do with how we fuel our bodies. I completely believe that now in the short time I've been learning so much. I'm slowly making lost of changes but I do have to admit some things are hard. Getting rid of cows milk was not a problem and I drank milk everyday. It made me sick to learn about cows milk. Meat isn't a big thing for me, never has been, but cheeses.....that will be hard. Anyway, I'm here and wanting to learn as much as I can. Thanks everyone.
Congratulations on becoming vegan! I hope you overcome the initial challenges, easily. I have been vegan for about 10 years and vegetarian for about 16. I find that most cravings for me personally, are really just cravings for a few basic elements: fat, salt, and sweet (sometimes creamy) . If you find that you are craving cheese it is very easy to whip up something creamy with fat and salt in it. Here is what I did when I first started out:
1. Identify the specific non vegan food you are craving. For example, if it is cheese what kind of cheese and how are you craving it? In mac and cheese? or maybe ricotta for your lasagna?
2. Google or read from cookbooks the type of dish you need to satisfy your craving. Use the recipes and try another recipe if you did not like it.
3. Ask yourself if you are satisfied after you have eaten the vegan version of the dish you consumed. Be honest if it did not satisfy, try to add a little extra salt or fat or sweet to the dish until you are satisfied. This method has always worked for me. So much so that when I see a commercial for foods with meats or cheeses. I only crave its vegan equivilent. Obviously, cooking with too much salt, fat or sweet is not healthy even if it is vegan. However, I find that for permanently losing those cravings for me it was necessary. I eventually weaned myself off of the extra salt, fat and sweet. And only occasionally now indulge in excess.
I would like to also express my sympathies regarding your mothers cancer. I hope she heals quickly. I think a plant based diet would help her tremedously. I would also like to say that extra salt, fat and sweet would probably NOT help her heal. So these recommendations are better for those persons who are currently healthy.
There are MANY recipes for vegan cheeses, from cheezy sauce to cheese wheels to ricotta to parmasean to cream cheese. Google contains a plethera of these recipes for free. Also, I have 2 specialized vegan cookbooks that I enjoy called 'Artisan Vegan Cheese' by Miyoko Schinner and
'The Ultimate Uncheese Cookbook' by Jo Stepaniak. Although, most vegan cookbooks would have some kind of vegan cheese recipe like any of Isa Chandra Moskowitz's cookbooks.
Lastly, my favorite vegan cheese is Daiya brand cheez. It comes shredded in a bag. It melts great and I make it into a cheezy sauce for pasta by boiling vegan milk and sprinkling the cheese and stirring until it changes into a lovely creamy sauce, add salt. You can also add garlic powder, tumeric and paprika if you like.
I wish you luck!
One other thing, always tell yourself you can eat what ever you want. Just say to yourself, ''I'm gonna try this vegan version f irstand if it doesn't satisfy then I can eat the non vegan version." I don't remember a time when it didn't satisfy and I wanted that other thing. Just keep telling yourself that in the end you will be satisfied so there is no reason to feel guilty or worry that you won't.


text:
Martin Kaymer turning U.S. Open into a rout
PINEHURST, N.C. (AP) — Martin Kaymer shot the best 36-hole score in U.S. Open history Friday with his second straight 5-under 65.
Taking advantage of a course softened by overnight rain, Kaymer was at 10-under 130 midway through a tournament he is turning into a rout. He matched the 36-hole mark at any major championship, set by Nick Faldo in the 1992 British Open at Muirfield.
Kaymer walked off Pinehurst No. 2 with a staggering eight-shot lead while many of the top contenders — including six-time runner-up Phil Mickelson and defending champion Justin Rose — were just teeing off.
The largest 36-hole lead at the U.S. Open is six shots, set by Tiger Woods in 2000 and matched by Rory McIlroy three years ago. Both captured the championship by large margins.
"It's not a done deal," Kaymer insisted. "You don't approach Saturday and Sunday in a relaxed way. There's never a time where you can relax. Unless it's Sunday afternoon and you're raising the trophy, then you can relax. Until then, you've got to keep playing."
There were plenty of low scores to be had on the receptive greens, but no one went as low as Kaymer, who struggled through a swing change after winning the PGA Championship in 2010. He went through 29 tournaments and 18 months without a victory before winning at The Players Championship last month.
He's carried the momentum from Sawgrass to the sand hills of North Carolina.
"It's very, very satisfying," Kaymer said. "There were a couple of shots today; I was surprised at how good they were. I'm just hitting the ball very solid right now."
After closing the opening round with three birdies in his last five holes, Kaymer kept it going with his early morning tee time. Starting on the back side, he birdied the par-5 10th and pulled away from there with four more birdies. Even when his irons began to get away from him a bit, he made two nifty shots from the bunker at the sixth and seventh holes to save par.
Over the first two rounds, he's made 11 birdies and just one bogey.
"I struggled a little bit the last four or five holes, but I kept it fairly well together," Kaymer said. "I didn't make any major mistakes."
Brooks Koepka shot a 68 for a 2-under 138 total, leaving him tied for second with Dustin Johnson (69), Keegan Bradley (69) and Brendon de Jonge (70) of Zimbabwe among those in the clubhouse.
Top-ranked Adam Scott rebounded from a disappointing start to shoot 67. But Scott lost ground to Kaymer, winding up 10 shots behind with an even-par 140.
"It's great golf for Martin," Scott said. "When you're playing like that, you want to just keep it going. For him to come out today and back it up is super. If he does it for two more days, then we're all playing for second spot."


text:
Choose another Topic
Geography Introduction
Georgia is a diverse state geographically, from the mountains of northeast Georgia to the coast of southeast Georgia. The state is divided into five distinct geographical regions, each with its own unique features. In addition, Georgia is home to many lakes and rivers. The information in this section - some original from GeorgiaInfo staff and some links to other sites - gives a good idea of the diversity of Georgia geography. There is information on the lakes and rivers, Brasstown Bald (Georgia's highest mountain), plus general information and photographs from all of Georgia's different geographic districts.


text: What: Cruise Night & Ice Cream Social Number 2 When: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 Where: Five Guys Burgers & Fries 255 South Main St. (Rt-25) Newtown, CT N 41° 22.271 W 73° 16.253 We will be holding our second Cruise Night at the Waterfall Plaza in Newtown. The plaza has, besides the Five Guys Burgers, a Blimpies and a Cold Stone Creamery. For those coming up from the Bridgeport area it is located about 7 miles north of the end of the divided highway portion of Rt.25. Please join us at 7:00 pm for a chance to look at cars and chat with fellow chapter members. Look for us in parking in the lot, on the north side of the plaza next to the bank. RSVP to Willy Wiley (firstname.lastname@example.com or 203-426-9308) by Monday, June 21, so we will have a means to contact you if the event should have to be rescheduled due to inclement weather. The first event in South Windsor was a big success, but a substantial portion of the Chapter's members reside in Fairfield County, so let's see a HUGE showing for this event.


text:
Sean Penn and Robin Wright have reportedly finalized their on-again, off-again divorce.
In court papers filed in California, the pair said they've privately worked out how to divide their assets and handle spousal support and custody over their 17-year old son Hopper Jack, People mag reported on Wednesday. They also have a 19-year-old daughter, Dylan.
Since Penn wed Wright 11 years ago they've announced breakups on multiple occasions, only to later call off the divorce plans.
U.S. & World
In 2007, they filed for divorce but announced four months later that they'd reconciled.
Penn filed for legal separation again in April 2009, but the two-time Oscar winner got back together with his wife a month later, according to People. By August they were separated again.
Last month, Penn described Wright as a ghostly presence.
"She is a ghost to me now," the actor told Vanity Fair. "We spent all those years together … Now she's just gone."
Penn was also previously married to Madonna.


text:
At NorthEast Inpatient Services, located in Concord, NC, our board-certified intensive care physicians provide you with prompt, high- quality medical care. Working collaboratively with your primary care physician, we work to find the best treatment options and make arrangements for appropriate follow-up care.
The physicians of NorthEast Critical Care are based at Atrium Health Cabarrus full-time and make rounds according to patient needs. Doctors are always available when you need them and can provide prompt care and scheduling of tests and treatments.
We encourage communication with the family. Your inpatient physician will make rounds and can discuss your plan of care at that time. Also, for the convenience of your family, a specified conference time can be scheduled.
Your NorthEast Critical Care physician will refer you to the appropriate specialist if necessary. We will communicate directly with your primary care physician about your care and any necessary follow up care.


text:
Services on Demand
Related links
- Cited by Google
- Similars in Google
South African Journal of Economic and Management Sciences
On-line version ISSN 2222-3436
Print version ISSN 1015-8812
S. Afr. j. econ. manag. sci. vol.12 n.2 Pretoria Jul. 2009
Direct use values of selected vegetation resources in the Okavango Delta Wetland
G MmopelwaI; JN BlignautI; R HassanII
IDepartment of Economics, University of Pretoria
IICentre for Environmental Economics and Policy in Africa (CEEPA), University of Pretoria
The economic benefits generated by wetlands and the costs associated with their degradation or loss are frequently overlooked. This often leads to decisions that stimulate wetland conversion and degradation. An important step towards correcting this situation and countering this neglect is to establish the true values of a wetland's ecosystem goods and services. This study attempts to estimate the direct use values of native plants, such as palm leaves for basketry, grass for thatching, fuelwood, edible fruits and plant parts used by three villages adjacent to the Okavango Delta during the 2003 calendar year. Other sources of ecosystem goods and services, such as fishing, floodplain farming and tourism, were not considered in this study. The average annual value per household of these harvested resources is generally higher than that of similar resources found in other southern African wetlands, owing to higher consumption rates. The overall total direct use value of plant resources, including household income contributions "in kind", was estimated at US$1 434 per household for 2003 (or US$43.41/ha). This value is almost equal to the average household financial income of US$1 416/year. The net present value of the overall benefit from the direct use of the vegetative resources is estimated at US$101.9 million. This clearly indicates the value of the use of natural resources and their contribution to livelihoods and quality of life. This value is so significant that economic development planners ought to incorporate it into development planning. They should not conceive infrastructure development that would jeopardise the communities' access to these natural resources without any well-developed mitigation strategy.
Keywords: Okavango Delta; economic value; ecosystem goods and services; plant resources; households
"Full text available only in PDF format"
APPLIED DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH CONSULTANTS (ADRC), 2001. A report on the socio-ecological survey of the Okavango Basin. Gaborone: Kalahari Conservation Society. [ Links ]
ASHTON, P.J., NORDIN, L. & ALONSO, L.E., 2003. Introduction to the Okavango Delta and the AquaRap expedition. In: Alonso, L.E. & Nordin, L. (Eds). A rapid biological assessment of the aquatic ecosystems of the Okavango Delta, Botswana: High Water survey. RAP Bulletin of Biological Assessment No. 27. Washington, DC: Conservation International. [ Links ]
BARBIER, E.B., ACREMEMAN, M. & KNOWER, D., 1997. Economic valuation of wetlands: guide for policy and planners. Gland: Ramsar Convention Bureau. [ Links ]
BOYER, T & POLASKY, S., 2004. Valuing urban wetlands: a review of non-market valuation studies. Wetlands, 24(4): 744-755. [ Links ]
BRANDER, L.M., RAYMOND, J.G.M.F. & VERMAAT, J.E., 2006. The empirics of wetland valuation: a comprehensive summary and a meta-analysis of the literature. Environmental and Resource Economics, 33: 223-250. [ Links ]
CENTRAL STATISTICS OFFICE (CSO), 2001. Population of town, villages and associated localities. Gaborone: Government Printer. [ Links ]
ELLERY, K. & ELLERY, W.N., 1997. Plants of the Okavango Delta: a field guide. Durban: Tsaro Publishers. [ Links ]
EMERTON, L., 1998. Economic tools for valuing wetlands in eastern Africa. Nairobi: International Union for the Conservation of Nature. [ Links ]
GOVERNMENT OF BOTSWANA, 2001. Botswana national atlas. Gaborone: Department of Surveys and Mapping. [ Links ]
GOVERNMENT OF BOTSWANA, 2003. Budget speech delivered to the National Assembly on 3 February by the Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Gaborone, Botswana. [ Links ]
GUMBRICHT, T., WOLSKI, P., FROST, P. & MCCARTHY, TS., 2004. Forecasting the spatial extent of the annual flood in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. Journal of Hydrology, 290: 178-191. [ Links ]
HEAL, G., 2004. Valuing ecosystem services: toward better environmental decision-making. Washington, DC: National Academic Press. Available at: http://www.nap.edu (accessed on 14 November (2006). [ Links ]
HUDSON-MURRY, M. & PARRY, D., 1997. Environmental studies: the permanent Okavango River Basin Water Commission (OKACOM) assessment. Maun: OKACOM. [ Links ]
JANSEN, R., 2002. The Okavango Delta Management Plan: application of an ecosystem based planning approach. Paper presented at the Seventh Global Biodiversity Forum, Valencia, Spain, 15-17 November. [ Links ]
KGATHI, D.L., 1984. Aspect of fuelwood trade between rural Kweneng and urban Gaborone: a socio economic perspective. Gaborone: National Institute of Development Research and Documentation (NIR), University of Botswana. [ Links ]
KGATHI, D.L., BENDSEN, H., BLAIKE, P., MBAIWA, J., NGWENYA, B.N. & WILK, J., 2004. Rural livelihoods, indigenous knowledge systems, and political economy of access to natural resources in the Okavango Delta. Maun: Harry Oppenheimer Okavango Research Centre, University of Botswana. [ Links ]
MASUNDIRE, H., RINGROSE, S., SEFE, F.T.K. & VAN DER POST, C., 1998. Botswana wetlands policy and strategy: inventory of wetlands of Botswana. Gaborone: National Conservation Strategy Agency & Ministry of Local Government, Lands and Housing. [ Links ]
MCCARTHY, TS., 1997. Specialist Report on the Okavango Delta and its floodplain system in Botswana. Windhoek: Water Transfer Consultants & Department of Water Affairs. [ Links ]
MILLENNIUM ECOSYSTEM ASSESSMENT, 2003. Ecosystem and human well-being : a framework for assessment. World Resources Institute. Washington: Island Press. [ Links ]
MMOPELWA, G., 2006. Economic and financial analysis of harvesting and utilisation of river reed in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. Journal of Environmental Management, 79(4): 329-335. [ Links ]
MMOPELWA, G. & BLIGNAUT, J.N., 2006. The Okavango Delta: the value of tourism. South African Journal of Economic and Management Sciences, 9(1): 113-127. [ Links ]
MONNA, S.C., 1999. A framework for international cooperation for the management of the Okavango Basin and Delta. Ramsar COP7 DOC.205. The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. Available at: http://www.ramsar.org/cop7_doc_20.5_htm (accessed on: 1/12/08). [ Links ]
NEME, L.A., 1997. The power of the few: bureaucratic decision making in the Okavango Delta. The Journal of Modern African Studies, 35(1): 37-51. [ Links ]
PEARCE, D.W. & TURNER, R.K., 1990. Economics of natural resources and the environment. New York: Harvester Wheatsheaf. [ Links ]
PLANTEC AFRICA, 2003. Ngamiland district settlement strategy 2003-2027. Gaborone: Ministry of Lands and Housing. [ Links ]
PRATO, T, 1998. Natural resource and environmental economics. Iowa: Iowa State University Press. [ Links ]
ROTHERT, S., 1997. Which way the Okavango Delta? In proceedings of a national conference on conservation and management of wildlife in Botswana: strategies for the twenty first century, Department of Wildlife and National Parks and Kalahari Conservation Society, Gaborone, 13-17 October. [ Links ]
ROTHERT, S., 1999. Meeting Namibia's water needs while sparing the Okavango. San Francisco: International Rivers Network and Conservation International. [ Links ]
SCHUDDER, T, MANLEY, R.E., COLEY, R.W., DAVIS, R.K., GREEN, J., HOWARD, G.W., LAWRY, S.W., MARTZ, D., ROGERS, P.P., TAYLOR, A.R.D., TURNER, S.D., WHITE, G.F. & WRIGHT, E.P., 1993. The IUCN Review of the Southern Okavango integrated water development project. Gland: International Union for the Conservation of Nature. [ Links ]
SILVIUS, M.J., ONEKA, M. & VERHAGEN, A., 2000. Wetlands: lifeline for the people at the edge. Physics, Chemistry and Earth, 25(7-8): 645-652. [ Links ]
SNOWY MOUNTAINS ENGINEERING CORPORATION, 1987. Southern Okavango Integrated Water Development. Final Report. Gaborone: Ministry of Mineral Resources and Water Affairs. [ Links ]
STUIP, M.A., BAKER, C.J., & OOSTERBERG, W., 2002. The socio-economic of wetlands. Wageningen: Wetlands International and RIZA. Available at: http://www.wetland.org/pubs&/pub_online/SocioEsc/Part1.pdf (accessed on 13 August 2008). [ Links ]
TURNER, R.K., VAN DEN BERG, J.C.J.M., SODERRQVIST, T, BARENDREGT, A., STRATEN, J.V.D., MALTBY, E. & VAN IRELAND, E.K., 2000. Ecological economic analysis of wetlands: scientific integration for management and policy. Ecological Economics, 35(1): 7-23. [ Links ]
TURPIE, J., SMITH, B., EMERTON, L. & BARNES, J., 1999. Economic values of the Zambezi Basin wetlands. Harare: IUCN Regional Office for Southern Africa. [ Links ]


text:
After slogging though a string of dreadful films, Jennifer Aniston appears to have rededicated herself to working with genuinely funny people, having signed on to star in a pair of comedies that could help salvage her career and reputation.
Aniston will play a monstrous dentist in "Horrible Bosses," to be directed by Seth Gordon, about three friends who conspire to kill their employers, reported Deadline Hollywood. The film will co-star Jason Bateman, Colin Farrell and the brilliant Charlie Day of "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" fame.
And in "WanderLust," she'll play alongside Paul Rudd as a married couple who try to bust out of their staid lives by joining a commune. The film, a Judd Apatow production, will be directed by David Wain and comes from a script he co-wrote with Ken Marino.
U.S. & World
The day's top national and international news.
A decade ago, Aniston was making films like "Office Space" and "The Good Girl," and was regularly hailed by one supermarket rag or another as one of the sexiest women alive. "Then Along Came Polly" and her career got "Derailed," "Rumor Has It" in part because of "The Break-Up" she went through with Brad Pitt.
Who knows what actually went wrong, but what's clear is that she spent a long time making bad movies with unfunny people. She would occasionally team up with people like Nicole Holofcener and people would remember she was a decent actress who was nice to look at. But more often she made garbage like this year's "Bounty Hunter."
Aniston's next film is "The Switch," out Aug. 20, co-starring Jason Bateman, the year's second turkey baster romcom, but one that promises to be far more entertaineing than "The Back-Up Plan."
Now if she could just put this baby food diet nonsense behind her.


text:
|Next Up at City Council
|Coming Down the Pike
|What Happened?
|Meet the Team
|Contact Us
Please review our Code of Conduct rules before posting a comment to this site. Report Abuse, please include specific topic and comment for the fastest response/resolution.
Posted by: Mike Houck - March 17, 2010 07:15 AM
Commissioner Fritz,
Your stepwise analysis should be in The Oregonian oped page in that it responds to reasonable questions raised by the editorial board and some letters to the editor.
The Urban Greenspaces Institute has come to the same conclusion through a similar analysis. Our only remaining concern, which was allayed by Mayor Adams at last week's hearing, is the potential for longer term impacts on BES overall budget.
Thank you for your thoughtful analysis of this complex issue.
Mike Houck, Director
Urban Greenspaces Institute
Posted by: Fred Stovel - March 17, 2010 09:59 AM
When I have an extra few bucks and a large debt, I tend to pay off the debt, not add to it.
Long-term debt of the City of Portland
Unfunded pension and retiree health-care:
Long-term bonds and interim financing:
Population: 587,406
My share: $9,894.05
As far as bioswales:
"Bio-swales, another justification for curb-extensions, are completely unvetted. There's no plan for managing the soil, and flora, in these once they become saturated with pollutants. There's been no exploration of the possibility these could become concentrated with dangerous chemicals. There's been no exploration of what happens to Fido if he eats veggy out of one of these, let alone wild-birds, and other wild animals, like squirrels and even rats. Experts will speak to bio-remediation as if. Fat soluble PBBs, and benzene, are just two very dangerous chems that bio-remediation won't touch, but that these swales will likely capture and store. The experts talk about heavy-metals from automobile brake-pads yet soil, inherently, is almost saturated with heavy-metals and then some."
Posted by Vance Longwell On Jack Bogdanski's Blog| March 17, 2010 9:03 AM
Posted by: Michael McGrath - March 17, 2010 07:42 PM
What am I missing?
$20,000,000 in costs.
600,000 residents in Portland.
$20,000,000 divided by 600,000 = $33 per resident.
If we assume 3 residents per household or account, that is $99 per year. That is significantly more than Ms. Fritz' estimate of $.90 to justify her vote.
Posted by: aaron lang - March 18, 2010 12:07 AM
Why would you assume that citizens that objected to this use of funds are "misinformed"? Is it so unbelievable to you that well informed citizens might have a problem with this?
It is a slap in the face to say that citizens that opposed this redistribution of funds are just too ignorant to properly form an opinion.
Posted by: Amanda Fritz - March 18, 2010 12:57 PM
Thank you for your comments.
* I appreciate your concurrence, Mike.
* I believe it is worth borrowing more (or not paying back early) in a recession, Fred, to keep people in jobs. I disagree with the opinion you posted regarding the effectiveness of bioswales. It is true that they must be properly sized and designed to work effectively, which was why I devoted significant time this past week making sure there is agreement between BES and PBOT that the money will be spent on stormwater facilities that work.
* Michael, thanks for doing the math. I didn't post the details of how the 7.5 cents was calculated, since the article was already pretty long. We have different rates for residential and industrial users. Its not calculated per capita. The impact of $20 million to rates was calculated for the "average residential customer". In looking back at my post, I realize that phrase was in an earlier draft but somehow dropped out of the posted version. I will correct that mistake. The City has about 150,000 residential accounts and about 12,000 commercial/industrial accounts. The latter will pay more because they generate so much more wastewater, and that is how each bill is calculated. Residential customers will pay the 7.5 cents per months based on typical residential water use calculations during the winter months (we don't charge people sewer charges based on summer water use to account for lawn/garden watering). Of course, from this it is clear that commercial and industrial users's share works out at more than 7.5 cents per month. I still believe the jobs kept/generated are a wise investment.
* Aaron, from the questions people have asked me, it is evident many have believed the proposal is to pay for bike paths, road striping, traffic lights, etc. I received, read, and answered over 100 emails on this matter, so I know what Portlanders were saying. Some of them were misinformed. This post aims to give accurate information. Portlanders can then decide, each one, whether you agree with my conclusion, or not, based on the information as I understand it.
Posted by: Amanda Fritz - March 18, 2010 07:16 PM
I mentioned in the original post that one of the options for use of the $20 million was to reduce debt service on the bonds taken out to pay for capital construction projects. I didn't have more information on that until today. I'm posting it as soon as I received it, to add to the ongoing accumulation of facts around this issue.
If $20 million were cut from BES's Capital Improvement Projects for the purpose of cutting rates and reducing ongoing debt service, the impact to a typical residential customer would indeed be about 7.5 cents per month, in the first year. The impact in the second year would be greater, up to 15 cents per month, and top out in the third year at 22.5 cents per month. So the annual return to ratepayers would be $0.90 in year one, $1.80 in year two, and $2.70 in years three through twenty-five. Overall, the total amount over 25 years would be about $65.
I don't know if having the information about ongoing rate impacts would have changed my vote, if I had received it earlier. Our federal government borrowed billions of dollars last year, and by doing so was able to send money to states to fund projects to provide jobs. This investment in jobs, instead of paying off the debt, can be seen in the same light. On the other hand, our Portland Utility Review Board voluteers are charged with commenting on ongoing rates, and I would have liked their input on a decision that affects ongoing rates in this manner.
This has been a challenging week, with the proposed changes to the Independent Police Review process being considered today after only being released for public review on Friday, and with the intense Council debate on the Hurley case in the Fire and Police Disability and Retirement system yesterday. My staff and I work long hours doing our best to find out accurate information, and to make good decisions based upon thoughtful consideration of facts and public input. I am not always successful in these goals. I will continue to base my actions on what I believe is best for the public good in Portland, recognizing that reasonable people can and do disagree on what that means. Sometimes I disagree with myself after further discussion. You're welcome to continue the debate and input here, however I will be unable to check back until Sunday due to a packed work schedule on Friday and family obligations on Saturday.
Posted by: Manuel Veloso - March 18, 2010 11:16 PM
You can always justify using ratepayer money for off-mission projects. Taking your logic to the extreme, why not raise sewer rates by $2 and use that money to fund schools? It's only $2. Why not use that to increase teacher salaries? Fix potholes? Cover the reservoirs?
You wanted to be a commissioner and an elected official because you wanted to make things happen. However, there are times where knowing when to say no is more important than any possible public benefit. Grabbing at a loose pile of money and repurposing it is unseemly...especially since the purpose in question is marginal at best.
Posted by: David Sullivan - March 19, 2010 08:45 AM
I hope that you remember that A Sam and Randy scam always stinks. and that I vote.
Posted by: Paul Manson - March 19, 2010 09:34 AM
Its important to remember that while the green street process helps bikes, it is still 100% a benefit for ratepayers. The more stormwater we do not have to convey through pipes to a treatment facility is a huge savings. This will reduce CSO issues, result in better stormwater management in the neighborhoods and then also benefit road users. (Its not just bikes that benefit from slower traffic - its kids and pedestrians too!)
This is a perfect example of leveraging one public need and another to get a double benefit. Green streets are a smart long term investment that will save ratepayer dollars for years to come.
Posted by: Zac Christensen - March 19, 2010 03:51 PM
While I appreciate your review on what it is at best a debatable issue I still can't figure out why the Portland Utility Review Board wasn't consulted on this decision? It appears that the Council decision came with very limited public involvement and a dismissive attitude towards opponents who we are told are simply misinformed.
What we have now is another divisive issue resulting from questionable communication and leadership by the Council. I don't want "slam-dunk" policy from the Council I want inclusive, well thought out policy. At the least I would hope that the Council takes the time to hear comment and seek consul from advisory groups that were established for the sole purpose of involving the community.
Posted by: Ken Hile - March 19, 2010 05:15 PM
This Takes Lots of Stupidity...
I am so sick and tired of wanna-be politicians wanting to make their stamp on Portland at everyone's expense. Forget we are not funding our schools properly, forget that we have millions upon million$ in pending lawsuits against an out-of-control police department, we have 12 percent unemployment, a recession, and all you can vision is freakin' bike lanes.
We voted against the airport max, but got it anyway.
We thought the tram was dumb, and we got it and an addition $40 mil bill out of it. For what?
If you ask me, this is the first step in bilking the taxpayers out of paying for the sewer fix underneath Band-Aid Park, oopps, I mean PGE Park, so they can get ready for soccer. Remember the big sewer pipe lying 6 feet under the stadium? Remember how they said they might break it? Hmmmmmm.....we get bike lines now, and soccer repairs later.....
Amanda, you should be ashamed of yourself. You and every other worthless bum on the Council. This is completely irresponsible.
Posted by: Larry Emery - March 20, 2010 11:45 AM
I removed my objection once Amanda explained that the Mayor had removed his plan to use $2 million of the $20 million for bike lane improvements and marking costs. My understanding is that such costs will come out of the transportation budget. I would like to see a copy of the final ordinance posted and would also recommend that these projects be audited to ensure that intention on funding sources are met.
I generally agree that these opportunistic, out-of-cycle budget deals are high risk. How were the specific project locations selected? Are they the right ones and most cost effective or were they driven by other motives?
There is going to be a day of reckoning, if the city continues to champion every feel good initiative without regard to cost and source of funding. For example, the council was quick to pursue the google intitiative, but I did not hear any discussion of the details, is this to be free to the city? Or are there infrastructure costs that must be borne by the City? I would point out that the earlier city wireless initiative failed and the current Clearwire impact on neighborhoods where unsightly transmission towers are needed to complete their commercial network.
Thank you Amanda for providing this open forum for us.
Posted by: Jerry Arvin - March 20, 2010 11:12 PM
Hi, Ms. Fritz!
You've already been ripped on the math, and a few (a very few) of the other considerations. I've read your comments, your justifications for your support. A noisy few have your ear, it seems. An argument can be constructed for just about anything.
Ms. Fritz, with all the justifying that is going on, you do Not want your name to be attached to this. The people of Portland do not want their sewer dollars to go this way. And if the People don't want it, then Sam Adams, the Greens, and 10,000 angels from hell shouldn't impress you. The people of Portland think it stinks, and that should be enough.
Thanks for giving us a hearing.
Thanks, for your Time.
Jerry Arvin
Posted by: Amanda Fritz - March 21, 2010 03:04 PM
Thank you for the further comments.
Manuel - Sewer rates may only be used for stormwater and sewer projects and programs, not for education funding or potholes. Water rates will pay for covering the reserviors, IF the Council decides to go that route after a public hearing to consider the issue. Water rates and sewer rates come to you on the same bill, but one source of funding can't be used for the other. The funding in this ordinance is for stormwater facility projects in streets. That is an appropriate use of sewer rates, since surface stormwater facilities have proven to be less expensive and more sustainable than underground pipes, when used in appropriate locations.
David - I don't make decisions based on whether people will vote for me again or not. If I did, I might have voted against this proposal in a meaningless grandstanding gesture, since it elicited a storm of spontaneous objections voiced to my office by phone, email, and in person. When I vote against something, it's because I don't believe it is in the long term public good of Portland and Portlanders, rather than to score points with the voters. I voted for this because I believe building more surface stormwater facilities is the right thing to do. I recognize many people disagree.
Pat - I agree. Thank you for explaining why some Portlanders support the Council in this matter.
Zac - I would have preferred to wait for the Portland Utility Review Board's advice. The one-week delay by requesting removal of the emergency clause was the best I could do to defer the vote. The PURB will give us their advice at the BES Budget hearing discussing next year's rates, which is before the ordinance takes effect since removing the emergency clause also delays implementation by 30 days. Still, I agree with your principle that the PURB should be given time to give the Council advice on significant funding issues.
Ken - The projects funded are not connected with and will not pay for sewer repairs under PGE Park. I continue to watch every detail of the soccer issue especially carefully, since I didn't support the conversion or investing in bringing MLS to Portland.
In your other comments, you seem unaware that last year Commissioners Fish, Saltzman and I persuaded the entire Council to change the Water Bureau's previous plan to build a filtration plant, if the federal agencies make us treat our Bull Run drinking water for a bug we don't believe it has. After a worksession and public hearing, the Council chose ultraviolet treatment instead, if we're forced to do something. That one vote saved ratepayers $500,000,000 - five hundred million dollars. It decreased the projected rise in this year's Water Bureau rates by over 6%, saving each ratepayer hundreds of dollars. I am not ashamed of this $20 million vote, and I am proud of the $500 million savings vote.
I ran for Council to look for savings great and small, and ways to spend tax and rate dollars wisely, in every line item of every proposal. I have done that every day in my first 14 months, and I will continue to do so. With 40% of construction workers unemployed and more than 25% of all Portland workers unemployed or underemployed, I believe it is reasonable, prudent, and wise use of ratepayers' money to invest this $20 million employing local companies to build stormwater facilities. I recognize that you disagree.
Larry - Thank you for your support, and for being one of the many citizens who emailed me before the vote helping me sort through the questions and figure out responses. The specific location of projects to be funded are not defined in the ordinance. It says the Directors of Environmental Services (Dean Marriott) and Transportation (Sue Keil) and their staff will meet to figure it out. I met with both Dean and Sue before writing my post. We tried to get more definition of where the projects will be, before the vote, but ultimately decided those choices are better made in an ongoing considered process rather than in a hurry before the vote. I am convinced Dean and Sue are both committed to using rate funds only for stormwater facilities, and finding other ways to fund transportation improvements. They both care about effective stormwater management - Sue used to work in BES. They both care about geographical and socioeconomic equity, so all areas of the city share in the benefits of this project.
On Google - yay, that is being led by one of my bureaus, so I don't have to dig to find out the details! The Office of Cable Communication and Franchise Management has done excellent work on this. It is very unfortunate the $20 million vote distracted attention from it on the Council Agenda on Wednesday. If we are successful, Google will build a high-speed (100 times faster) fiber-optic network at no cost to the City. It won't be free for users, but it will be market-priced and likely result in lower prices on existing providers' services. It may be in one area, rather than citywide. The Cable Office staff have done significant work aimed at providing community technology to underserved and disadvantaged areas such as N/NE and Outer SE (including applying for an $8 million federal grant last week), so we were ready to adapt to Google's requirements. Google's high-speed fiber-optic infrastructure would be a huge attraction for businesses seeking the improved services. See my front page for information on the proposal, and how you can help encourage Google to choose us. I'll put the information on my What Happened page after I take it off the front of our site.
Jerry - Every citizen in Portland has direct access to me, by email, web site comments, phone, talking to me at one of the hundreds of community events I attend each year, or making an appointment to meet with me. I read and considered input from hundreds of the 582,000 people in Portland on this issue - either for the Bike Plan, or against this funding for stormwater projects. I put my name in the Yes column for the vote on this ordinance because it seemed a good investment to me. Even with the additional information that came in afterwards, and the issue of whether the PURB should be asked for advice on every revision of project choices in BES that happens over the course of implementing the approved budget, I still believe this is an appropriate use of sewer rates to provide jobs constructing stormwater facilities.
Posted by: Amanda Fritz - March 21, 2010 04:12 PM
Clarification: I stated above that my work with Commissioners Fish and Saltzman on choosing ultra-violet rather than filtration, if we are forced to treat Bull Run water, saved "over 6%" on the 2010-11 water rate increase request. It's actually exactly 6%, from 18.9% (projected in the last budget cycle) reduced to 12.9% (requested in the 2010-11 budget). The Office of Management and Finance is recommending additional cuts, bringing the proposed rate request down to 11%.
The Council will continue to work to obtain a variance to avoid having to build an ultraviolet facility. That would save approximately $100 million in construction costs, about $200 million including debt service fees.
Posted by: Mark Riskedahl - April 14, 2010 07:10 PM
Impressive example of transparent responsive local governance. Thanks for sharing your thinking on this issue Amanda. I agree that these dollars are well-appropriated for the intended purposes.
Posted by: Desiree Bley - April 15, 2010 09:52 AM
Thanks, great breakdown of a politicized issue. I did not know this site existed, and will use it for information in the future. www.BikePortland.org linked it in the comments section.
Posted by: Amanda Fritz - April 20, 2010 08:44 AM
Thank you for your comments, Mark and Desiree. I'm glad you found the post helpful.
Post a Comment (Sign-In Required)


text:
ALL MOVIE GUIDE: Wim Wenders' sprawling cyberpunk noir epic — shot in no less than nine different countries — is set in 1999 and stars Solveig Dommartin as Claire, a young Frenchwoman who comes into contact with a large sum of money stolen during a bank heist; in her travels she picks up a mysterious American hitchhiker (William Hurt), who himself steals some of the money before parting from her company. Upon discovering the theft, Claire sets out on his trail, with both a Hammett-styled German private eye (Rudiger Vogler) as well as her former lover, a novelist portrayed by Sam Neill, in tow. The hitchhiker is really Sam Farber, the son of an underground scientist (Max Von Sydow), and his mission is to travel the globe in order to acquire the funding necessary to develop the technology which will allow his blind mother (Jeanne Moreau) to "see" visual recordings of her family members; the second half of the film takes place largely in the Farbers' compound in the Australian Outback, where Sam, Claire and the others take refuge while attempting to bring the sight project to its fruition, in the meantime pondering earth's future in the wake of a nuclear disaster in outer space. Wenders' most ambitious film to date, budgeted at $23 million, Until the End Of the World is also among his most seriously flawed efforts — despite a keen sense of cultural perception, a fascinating sci-fi take on life in the near-future and stunning Robby Muller cinematography, the picture never quite gels. Much of the blame seems to fall upon its distributors — upon its wide release in 1991, the movie was drastically cut to a running time of 2 1/2 hours, resulting in a disjointed narrative that doesn't shift gears so much as grind them as the action moves from country to country. Still, while a three-hour version, issued on laserdisc in Japan, comes closer to realizing the full scope of Wenders' epic vision, rumors of a five-hour director's cut — said to have been screened to thunderous applause at a handful of film festivals — continue to persist, suggesting that a masterpiece may well exist here after all.
I wasn't crazy for Wings of Desire, but I really like science fiction. Can anyone recommend this as a blind buy? Thanks.AMAZON.COM: Shot on location in numerous countries, this ambitious Wim Wenders fantasy takes Sam Neill, Solveig Dommartin, William Hurt, and a ragtag group in pursuit around the world and back again. Though set in 1999 under the shadow of impending disaster as a wobbly nuclear satellite threatens to Chernobyl the planet, the leisurely gait of their worldwide escapades has a distinctly '40s-era decadence. The ultimate object of their quest is a machine that records visual information from one person and reconstructs it in the brains of others--granting the miraculous power of sight to the blind for one thing, but even more mystically, enabling a person's dreams to be recorded. When the film seeks resolutions on the most intimate questions of the human soul which dovetail with the possibility of a destroyed world, the film is hampered by the VHS running time, which subtracts several hours from the laser disc version. But numerous joys, not least among them Jeanne Moreau and Max von Sydow as Hurt's parents, inhabit this thought-provoking film.


text:
Although the information on this website is collected and selected carefully, it can contain imperfections or incorrections. Students' union Helix and Boekhandel Dominicanen cannot be held responsible for damages as a result of incorrect or incomplete information – including information which has been supplied or made available by a third party - nor for any other damages which could have been a result of ordering at Helix or Boekhandel Dominicanen. No rights can be derived from data and information on this website. Students' union Helix and Boekhandel Dominicanen cannot be held responsible if their websites are unavailable as a result of a malfunction.
If you have questions or remarks regarding the information on this website, please email to email@example.com.


text:
These pancakes were made by H a couple of weekends back. They tasted so good that I just had to jot it down here. Now, H never measures anything while cooking, so I only have approximate amounts of the ingredients that went into this recipe.
2 cups kale, chopped as finely as possible
2 medium potatoes, peeled and grated (squeeze out the excess mositure)
To grind to a very coarse mixture:
1 medium onion
4-5 green chillies
3-4 curry leaves
3 Tbsp corn
A tiny piece of ginger
1-2 garlic cloves
Mix together-
2 eggs
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup rice flour
1-2 Tbsp yogurt
2 Tbsp shredded Mozzarella cheese.
1 tsp cumin seeds, pounded coarsely (I used a mortar and pestle)
1 tsp baking powder
Oil/butter to grease the griddle/skillet
Mix all the ingredients listed above to form a relatively thick batter. A little bit of water may be used to bring the batter together.
Grease a hot skillet with oil/butter; pour a ladleful of the batter. Tilt and move the skillet around a bit so that the batter spreads out a little. Try and spread it out as evenly as possible with the back of the ladle (not very easy since the batter's really thick).
Serve with sour cream. I had mine with ketchup.


text:
"The Masque of the Red Death", originally published as "The Mask of the Red Death", is a short story written by Edgar Allan Poe and first published in 1842. The story follows Prince Prospero's attempts to avoid a dangerous plague known as the Red Death by hiding in his abbey. He, along with many other wealthy nobles, has a masquerade ball within seven rooms of his abbey, each decorated with a different color. In the midst of their revelry, a mysterious figure enters… (more)
Language: English
Published in: 1842
Word count: 2,437 words (≈ 10 minutes)
Source: http://en.wikisource.org
Copyright: Public Domain
A list of books that are commonly found on reading lists for US high school English classes.


text:
I get up early and check my email:
1. Read all three horoscopes.
2. Read my todays Mission Calendar Inspiration from Oprah.
3. my astrology.com's Daily Feng Shui Tip.
4. See what Freecycle is giving away.
5. Find new things I like on ThisNext,
6. Read Fashionista -15 new articles,
7. check out the InSyle look of the day,
8. Go Buy Now: Tiered Skirts from WhoWhatWear Daily,
9. see if Shop Bop has anything new and cute,
10. check the Fashion Alert at nymag.com,
11. Look through Bluefly.com,
12. AnnTaylorLoft,
13. OldNavy,
14. Newport-News,
15. Nordstrom,
16. JuicyCouture,
17. Tobi.com, and
18. Spiegel at their latest clothes,
19. check out what I might love in Stuff We Love at ivillage.com.
20. See what is at The BIG Semi-Annual Sale at Bath and Body Works.
21. Drool over diamonds at BlueNile.com.
22. See what desserts CookingFood.com wants me to make tonight.
23. Read through 20 FlyLady emails encouraging me to clean my house.
24. Read Cory Kennedy's new blog post on uber.com,
25. Read perezhilton.com
26. and TMZ.com to find out what's new with the stars
27. Read stereogum.com to find out the latest music
28. See what to do, where to go, or what to eat with San Francisco Mgazine's itlist_sf,
29. About.com: San Francisco,
30. radioalice.com's Alice Everyday: News and Notes,
31. check my Going.com The Weekly Update,
32. Thrilllist San Francisco.
33. See what Advance Movie Screening!!! Entertainment Weekly wants to send me to.
34. Find out that Netflix.com received my last DVD.
35. Buy something from thegreatergood.com to save the children. The Greater Good Network, shop where it matters!
36. Look at the When We Left Earth Series at the Discovery Store Channel at discovery.com.
37. Find out What to Watch from EW.com,
38. See what's going to be on This Week on the Sundance Channel.
39. Find out what's happening on Oprah's show tomorrow with my OprahAlert.
40. Send a message to my legislators at MomsRising.org.
41. Find out 10 Easy Ways to Sleep Better from LifetimeTelevision.com,
42. find out what my favorite Ebay seller is selling.
43. Update at twitter and read all the twitters including blogs and links and then reply to them all plus welcome new twitterfriends,
44. update at friendfeed and see what Robert Scoble has to say,
45. check facebook and see how my Fantasy Stock Exchange is doing and what my friends have been doing on the newsfeed and check my notifications to see who sent me a virtual bloody mary,
46. check MySpace to see if any friends have tagged me in any embarassing pics or what their Status and Mood is and check the Friend Updates to find out who has changed thier profile song to "You're So Vain" by Carly Simon and check the Bulletin Space to read my friends survey on thier favorite sex positions and see what band is promoting a concert far away from me in Europe, and read The Dresden Dolls blog to find out that they now have a special edition of "No, Virginia" to download with bonus tracks.
47. Check my karma at Plurk.com and say hi and comment with all my plurky friends there.
48. Write a blog on WordPress.com
49. post it on mashable.com
50. and del.icio.us
51. and Kirtsy,
52. and Mahalo,
53. and Friendfeed
54. and digg.com
55. Moderate my blog comments.
56. read Jeremy's Shoemoney – Skills To Pay The Bills,
57. and John Chow dot Com,
58. and Laughing Squid
59. and The Latest from TechCrunch
60. and WebProNews to keep up on the latest tech news.
61. Watch GaryVee on Wine Library TV to find out what wine to buy for dinner,
62. watch Jake Marsh on Viddler.com to see what he's been up to,
63. Shop on Etsy.com
64. If it's Sunday I must watch Val's Art Diary on YouTube.com.
65. Then there are the forwarded jokes from friends,
66. the graphics from Oasis to look through
67. Check out what Bob Lefsetz had to say about the music scene.
68. See what's new at iTunes.
69. Check my rss feed at Pageflakes and read all new articles.
70. and if I'm lucky maybe even a personal email or two.
71. I think I'll just delete the BUSINESS PROPOSAL, Online Degree Program, Mastercard or Visa Approved, 3 Days and 3 Nights Confirmation, the Cheapest pain medication online and Please Your Woman Tonight emails, after all, it's bedtime.
P. S. If I missed any, leave me a comment and let me know! If I didn't miss any, leave me a comment and let me know!


text: I shot some clays last week for the first time I can remember and it really intrigued me. Now I'm wondering about a versatile shotgun in a 12ga. I have a 16 and a Winchester Model 1300 Defender in 12ga (short barrel). Any ideas on a good 12ga that I could use for shooting clays and occasional Canada geese? (No, I prolly can't afford a Benelli semi-auto with custom engraved stock)


text:
Nationally Recognised PI
Private Detective Ashington
Dedicated Private Detective Agency providing services since 1997…
- 100% Confidential
- Catch a Cheating Partner
- Affordable & Dedicated Service
UK Private Investigators offers a comprehensive range of services in Ashington, Northumberland. We have quickly become the top investigation agency in this area, with a network of agents operating throughout the local area as well as the UK and internationally. We have the skills and experience you need to uncover the truth in any situation. Whether you a seeking out a long lost relative, someone owes you cash, or you want to gather good evidence to support your suspicions, we have the tools and the know how to help you.
Talk to Us [FREE PHONE]: 0800 043 1754
Private Detective Services in Ashington, Northumberland
Providing a broad range of detective services throughout the UK…
We know that our clients around the Ashington area are looking for a discreet and professional services. We have a wide range of areas to choose from when you enquire after our Private Detective services. The services we provide could include:
Gather substantial evidence to support your case with our surveillance.
Find that evidence through lost text messages, deleted files or internet history.
Find out for certain if your partner is cheating on you behind your back.
Detailed checks on the person you are due to wed.
Insurance Claim Investigations
Prevent scam insurance claims from affecting your life.
Find a long lost relative or a missing person with our surveillance and tracking skills.
Is that person being completely truthful about their past?
Reclaim that money which is rightfully yours
Local Private Detective, Ashington
We have an extensive network of agents working for us around the world, offering the best Private Detective services for the UK. Our Ashington team are ready to take your call and get to work on your case. We are committed to providing the most efficient and discreet service to our clients along with reputable services to aid you in your search.
Because we employ agents in all areas, we have experts in your local area available to work on your case. With their extensive knowledge of Northumberland and the towns and villages within, we are confident that our team can delve deeper into your confidential issue in a knowledgeable and get to the bottom of your case in no time.
We regularly receive excellent feedback from our clients in the Northumberland area who have successfully taken on our Private Detective services. We are sure that our excellent track record will prove our quality to you.
Why Choose UK Private Investigators in Ashington, Northumberland?
We know that choosing to use a private investigator is not something we do lightly – it can be daunting, especially if you are trying to find answers in a difficult situation! Knowing what to expect can be part of the issue for many people. Here at UK Private Investigators, we like to make it simple for you, the client. From the initial enquiry, we guide you and help you to understand exactly what we are doing along with why from catching a cheating partner to finding a persons address. Our discretion and speed of service is something we are proud of, leading us to be one of the premier investigation agencies in the country.
Private Detective FAQs
What does private investigator do?
- An investigator can find clues to prove a client's suspicions are correct for a wide range of situations. Sometimes clients come to us with just a feeling that something isn't right, other times they have some proof but need further evidence to support their claims. Our Private Detective specialists can help you get the answers and proof you need!
How much does it cost for Private Detective in Ashington?
- We cannot easily say how much our services will cost, as it very much depends on the nature of the investigation! We can fully quote for your services when we understand a little more about your requirements.
How can I speak to one of the agents for Northumberland?
- We have a UK number to call if you wish to speak to our team. We offer completely private, free consultations which allow us to understand more about what you require, along with giving you a chance to explain more about your own situation. This will help us to establish exactly which Private Detective services you will require.
4 Reasons to Choose Us
- We have the largest network of agents ready to take your case on.
- Discreet and private investigation work carried out to the highest standards.
- Concrete evidence supplied where necessary to help you prove your case.
- Professional and approachable investigatory teams in Ashington
Contact your nearest agent in Ashington, Northumberland today for a private and confidential consultation.
Need Help? Let's touch base…
Your information will NEVER be sold to a third party and is stored only for the purposes of contacting you.


text:
Before celebrities walked down the red carpet at the Nokia Theatre, before Usher opened the 40th American Music Awards with his new song, and before Justin Bieber brought his mom on stage to accept his award, Spin Shoppe Public Relations invited media and celebrities to the #NIVEAKiss Lounge, at the Redbury Hotel in Hollywood, on November 17th & 18th.
To celebrate the launch of NIVEA Lip Butters, NIVEA USA hosted a two-day event. I was excited to attend the celebration powered by CIROC Ultra Premium Vodka in conjunction with BlackBook/Vibe Magazine Media Lounge. I had the pleasure to meet the sponsors and sample their products with multiple celebrities in the NIVEAKiss Lounge.
The new NIVEA Lip Butter gives your lips relief and leaves them protected. Each flavor is enriched with Shea Butter and Almond Oil providing long lasting nourishment, leaving lips feeling sensually soft and healthy. NIVEA Lip Butter come in four new delicious flavors: Smooth Kiss, Raspberry Rose Kiss, Caramel Cream Kiss, and Vanilla & Macadamia Kiss. Celebrity, Sandra Vergara, was spotted sharing some #Betterkisses with her beau at the #NIVEAKiss lounge. Make all your kisses better with NIVEA Lip Butter!
For more information on NIVEA Lip Butters, visit: www.niveausa.com/products/lip-care/product-type/tin
Everyone knows "diamonds are a girl's best friend". This Milan-based jewelry line, Duepunti Unconventional Diamonds, was created by the son of a recognized Milanese diamond dealer, so he happens to know a thing or two about our sparkly pal. The difference here is, this best friend costs just under $100 a ring. The collection is sporty and feminine, modern and contemporary, and colorful as ever...the best of all worlds. The silicone rings and bangles come in a rainbow assortment of vibrant hues and a mounting method ensures that the .02 carat diamond stays safe in its place. The buying experience of Duepunti is not the same as buying a conventional piece of diamond jewelry. It is more accessible, more personal, more fun, more modern, without a doubt, more DUEPUNTI. Performing artist, Skylar Grey, and pop sensation, Blush, rocked the Duepunti rings and bracelets at the American Music Awards.
For more information on Duepunti Jewelry, visit: http://www.duepunti-jewelry.com
CIROC Ultra-Premium Vodka is simply unique. The name is derived from the combination of two French words, "Cime" meaning peak or summit-top and "roche" meaning rock. True to its roots, CIROC Mauzac Blanc grapes stem from the high-altitude vineyards in Gaillac, France. CIROC Ultra-Premium Vodka is complex in its creation but complementary with most mixers from Champagne to Tonic. Earlier this year, CIROC Ultra Premium added CIROC PEACH to its flavor portfolio. This new addition joins CIROC Vodka, CIROC RED BERRY and CIROC COCONUT, providing consumers with not only the reassurance of quality in their flavored spirits, but also an offering that is infused with natural fruit flavors. However you choose, enjoy the clean finish of CIROC and Celebrate Life Responsibly!
For more information on CIROC Ultra Premium Vodka, visit: www.ciroc.com
Tarté Asian Yogurt also sponsored the daytime NIVEA Kiss Lounge event. I had a chance to hear from Winston Lee, CEO of Tarté Yogurt, on how the new, unique Asian-style yogurt was conceptualized, dating back just a couple of years ago. Jam-packed with taste, it is lightly sweetened with Stevia, 14 grams of protein and only 115 calories per 6 oz serving. Tarté Yogurt, an alternative to Greek yogurt, has a subtly sweet and tangy taste. It is available in 6 mouth-watering flavors: The Original, Strawberry & Guanabana, Blueberry & Acai, Mango & Coconut, Pomegranate & Goji, and my favorite, Green Tea & Honey. Celebrity, Andy Dick, and his son, Lucas, are fans of the Mango & Coconut. Tarté Yogurt will leave you feeling satisfied and guilt-free all day long!
For more information on Tarté Yogurt, visit: http://tarteyogurt.com
The Los Angeles-based AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) is a global organization providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy to over 130,000 people in 22 countries. AHF is the largest provider of HIV/AIDS medical care in the U.S. Since 1987, AHF has cared for thousands of people living with HIV and AIDS worldwide. By creating and implementing unparalleled programs in new communities in the U.S. and abroad, AHF expand delivery of healthcare and influence over policy with the sole aim of saving more lives. AHF's operating capital comes from their own self-created social enterprises, such as AHF Pharmacies, thrift stores, healthcare contracts, and other strategic partnerships.
For more information on AHF, visit: www.aidshealth.org
As I made my way in one of the two rooms, I had the absolute pleasure in meeting Yuma Bella, a designer for Sephora's makeup bag collection. A native of Costa Rica, Yuma, turns her love of the tropical country into bags adorned with beautiful colors and textures. The emerging designer enjoys the combination of beauty and practicality. Organize and store all of your beauty essentials with this collection of flashy, chic bags. Each tote was created by Yuma Bella and inspired by stunning natural wonders: the iridescent texture mirrors a cool sunset off the Mediterranean and the gold tones are reminiscent of the sands of the Sahara. The blend of spandex, foil, and leather creates a unique, holographic finish, is sure to turn heads everywhere you go. Her collection of stylish cosmetic bags splashed with gold and gorgeous details can be found in Sephora stores across the US. Yuma believes, "All a woman has to do is add an ID and a credit card, and she is ready to go!"
For more information on Sephora, visit: www.sephora.com
Follow Yuma Bella on Twitter: @yumabella1
Boost Mobile and Vibe Media set up a private room to conduct interviews and photo ops with celebrities; while Chilli Beans offered custom sunglasses from their luxury truck parked outside of the #NIVEAKiss Lounge in front of the Redbury Hotel.
Follow Vibe Media on Twitter: @VibeMagazine
Follow Boost Mobile on Twitter: @boostmobile
Follow Chilli Beans Sunglasses on Twitter: #chillibeansusa


text:
AutomationMedia.com Looks at RABIT by Pinnacle Strategies
Plano, TX -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/18/2012 -- "Success, itself, rests on effective project management, so it's hard to understand why more businesses don't do a better job of it," pondered Mark Woeppel, President and CEO of Pinnacle Strategies. Companies have a habit of dealing with the fallout of project management disasters after they happen, rather than identifying and implementing a workable solution before problems arise.
Manufacturing journalist, Thomas R. Cutler recently contributed a feature article in AutomationMedia.com, titled, "Pinpointing the Real Source of Project Management Snafus." Cutler profiled the different approaches used by Pinnacle Strategies.
Poor engineering project processes invariably result in late placement of purchase orders, affecting product delivery; late award of installation contracts, affecting service dates as well as construction cost overruns to catch up. Too often these impacts cause a compromise in scope or features promised and a delay in the delivery of project.
The most common approach used when dealing with project completion uncertainty is adding safety time into each of the task duration estimates during the planning phase. Often so much time is added to individual tasks that "safety time" comprises the majority of the planned project duration. Fixing the project task estimation strategy is not enough.
RABIT process, a proprietary system by Pinnacle Strategies, addresses these entrenched problems and solves them with a strategy known as Critical Chain Project Management. RABIT is an acronym for Rapid Analysis and Bottleneck Improvement Team. When project deadlines are falling like dominoes and problems are multiplying manufacturers need a RABIT. When systemic problems remain unaddressed, every deadline is in constant jeopardy. Each failure to deliver a project as promised, impacts the bottom-line; it also impacts client satisfaction, reputation, and repeat customers.
The immediate effects of the RABIT process improve the performance of a bottleneck area, to reduce or eliminate work backlog, and sustain the improved throughput levels. The long-term effect of the RABIT process produces a paradigm shift in team behavior...a permanent change for the better that propels the team towards improved productivity and the company towards profitability.
The RABIT process was developed from years of practical experience in critical chain project management and consistently produces dramatic increases in process output. Unlike most process improvement methodologies which include metrics and promise little, Woeppel promises 20% more output in two months.
About Pinnacle Strategies
Pinnacle Strategies (www.pinnacle-strategies.com) is an international management consulting firm delivering operations management excellence. The company brings decades of process improvement experience; these talents cross an array of industry sectors (aerospace to oil and gas and beyond) as well as many processes (complex manufacturing including Engineer-to-Order). Pinnacle Strategies increases shareholder value by developing high-performance business processes that significantly enhance productivity, reduce costs and time to market, improving profitability and accelerating sustainable growth.
Pinnacle Strategies
Annette Hamilton, Director of Marketing


text:
be all (the) one (to someone)(redirected from all one to you)
be all (the) one (to someone)
To make no difference (to someone) one way or another; to be unimportant (to someone) what happens. I'd actually prefer to continue working on a freelance basis, if it's all one to you. It's only a game, after all, so it's all the one whether we win or lose.
all one
Of no difference; immaterial: Whether we go out or stay in, it's all one to me.


text:
Federico Lucifredi is the maintainer of the man suite, the primary documentation-delivery tool under Linux, a graduate of Boston College and Harvard University, and the Ubuntu Advantage Product Manager at Canonical. As a software engineer-turned-manager at the Novell corporation, Federico was part of the SUSE Linux team for five years, overseeing the update stack of a 150 million dollar maintenance business. Previously, Federico has been a CIO and a network software architect at technology and embedded Linux startups, and he has spent two years teaching in Boston University's graduate and undergraduate programs, while simultaneously consulting for MIT. He is a frequent speaker at user group and conference events, notably the Linux Foundation's LinuxCon, LinuxWorld, the O'Reilly Open Source Convention, and the IMPlanet conferences, where he was a panelist representing the Jabber community. Federico is a recognized expert in computing performance issues, and consults pro-bono with Standard and Poor's clients interested in Free/Open Source Software technical and strategic issues. He participated in the GPL v3 drafting process in the large-corporation panel.
For information on exhibition and sponsorship opportunities at the conference, contact Sharon Cordesse at (707) 827-7065 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
View a complete list of OSCON contacts


text:
It's the internet phenomenon that has everybody talking in Brazil, and yet it was born out of a college dorm room during an informal chat between fellow students. Sound familiar? Yes, I'm talking about Facebook, but not the big idea that came out of Mark Zuckerberg's mind, although the founder of the world's number one social network has a lot to do with it.
I'm talking about Gina Indelicada (which would literally translate as 'Indelicate Gina') a hit Facebook page created about twelve days ago that has already reached over 1.5 million likes, considerably more than some of the country's most notorious public figures (former president Lula da Silva's official fan page has just about 222,000 likes, while supermodel Gisele Bundchen's fan page has 857,000).
So, who is Gina and why is she so popular? Gina is actually a fictional character based on a model who starred in a 1970s ad campaign for a Brazilian brand of toothpicks called Rela Gina. While other toothpick companies used to sell their product wrapped in cellophane paper, Rela Gina's executives thought it was a good idea to place the toothpicks inside of a paper box, so it would be easier to take them to the table. The perfect packaging found, they just needed a face to feature in the boxes. The rest is history, and by giving an identity to the simplest of manufactured things, Rela Gina, or simply Gina, became one of the most well-known products in Brazil, accounting for 40% of the company's total revenue.
But Gina, the toothpick brand, and Gina Indelicada, the Facebook star, aren't related at all. The latter was an idea of Riccky Lopes, a 19-year-old advertising student based in Sao Paulo, who created the page after successfully experimenting in the world of social media marketing. Lopes' first foray into social networking was in 2010, when he launched a Twitter profile that, at one point, was the second most retweeted in the world (the first was Justin Bieber's, number 4 on Forbes' Social Networking Superstars list). The profile has been deactivated because, as Lopes tells Forbes in a telephone interview Monday, he was "just using it to get familiar with the microblog."
"People think I just happened to discover the internet, but the truth is I've been researching a lot about all of this for quite some time," Lopes says. During that time, he discovered that there's no secret for reaching huge audiences on the internet, something that he achieved more than once in Facebook (besides Gina Indelicada, his other page has roughly 800,000 fans); but only one simple rule that should be followed: interactivity at all times.
"What people really want is to be a part of something, to interact and have their voices heard somehow," he explains. As for the idea of Gina Indelicada, Lopes recounted that he had the concept in mind, but he needed a character to make it happen. "I was making dinner with my roommates, when I opened the fridge and saw a box of Gina toothpicks. We chatted for a while about it, and then it came to me--Gina was the character I was looking for."
The page consists of screenshots of messages sent to Gina by its fans asking questions about anything, which are always answered in a sarcastic, sometimes indelicate way. "Brazilians are known for their friendliness, for their love of hugging and all that, what can sometimes be seen as fake. So whenever a person comes around who breaks that stereotype, people will relate to them as someone who speaks their mind and is sincere. Gina is all of that," says Lopes.
Gina has become something else, particularly for the company to which the character is commercially associated. "We never expected this kind of attention and we certainly don't intend to sue Lopes for it. Instead, we want to partner up with him," says Alfredo Rela Neto, CEO of the company, which is already looking into ways of cashing in on the free publicity, including a portfolio of new products based on Gina. "It's amazing the fact that he's a 19-year-old student and Gina is a 65-year-brand. He's bringing us a totally new consumer audience."
As for Lopes, who claims to have received many job offers in the past few days, he just signed with a new ad agency to coordinate the online campaign of a famous brand of deodorants, whose name he cannot reveal for the moment.
Facebook has become the ultimate tool for companies looking for new ways to connect with customers. As a media channel reaching hundreds of millions of people (46 million in Brazil alone, its second largest market worldwide), it's a matter of survival to be there. "No other advertising channel, at least where you can communicate, can compete with those numbers," says Facebook advertiser Freddie Jansson.
"I think a web campaign for a company is more effective than a television campaign these days," says Lopes. "Facebook presents all the opportunities for those who know how to use it." Lopes admits, though, that the website will probably lose its strong presence eventually. "It has happened before, other social networking websites, like Orkut, became irrelevant. Facebook's time will come, too."
But while it's still hot, Lopes intends to make the most of it. "When I started Gina Indelicada, I expected to reach a million Likes in a month. I've got more than that in just a few days, plus amazing job offers that never occurred me and even business proposals. I think that's what Facebook gives people and businesses: the chance to reinvent themselves. It's what I did and it is what Rela Gina is doing. And I applaud Zuckerberg for that. He's a visionary."
Not the only one, apparently.