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Image editing on-the-go has still not quite made the permanent leap to phones and tablets in a way that provides the user with as much control as desktop solutions. However, the desire for mobile editing hasn't waned. With Adobe at the top of the game as far as desktop editing goes, it's hard to ignore their new offering. A couple years ago, Photoshop Express piqued my interest, but after giving it a shot, I was disappointed with the lack of control given to make a proper, accurate selection. Since that is one of the most important aspects of photo editing, I didn't really give the app any more attention. Now, after hearing about Photoshop Touch and Scribble Selection, I had to see how far technology has come in making controlled and accurate selections.
Scribble Selection
There are a few ways to make a selection within the app, but the Scribble Selection tool presents the newest possibilities in improving selection-making on a phone or tablet. Howard Pinsky has a great demonstration of it on an iPad. We tried it on a Samsung Galaxy Note II.
This tool is found in the lower left corner, within the second row of icons from the bottom that pops up. Once selected, you'll see two buttons, Keep and Remove. To make a selection, you draw an outline right inside the edges of the area you want to isolate while you have Keep active. Your outline shows up in green. Then select Remove and draw an outline just outside of the area. This shows up as red. After defining these zones, the app does its best to select the shape you desire, then presents you with the option to keep scribbling in order to refine your selection. (You can continue toggling Keep and Remove to get the desired results).
The more we played with this, the more it seemed like a quality selection could be achieved. Since you are able to zoom in and refine the Scribble Selection over and over, you can get a selection that is really accurate.
The only hurdles are that once zoomed in, you can still scribble, but you can't move around your image at the same zoom. The app can't differentiate between you wanting to create a scribble and wanting to move around the image. In order to visit different areas of the outline you are defining, you have to zoom out, then back in on a different area. It isn't horrible; it's just functionality that doesn't quite mimic the capabilities you have on the desktop client. Thanks to Jorge Rodriguez I realized that it IS possible to move around your image while zoomed in. Just use two fingers instead of one.
Also, as far as we could tell, the brush strokes made with the Scribble Selection are a default size and hardness. It's obvious that the goal is for the app to do the work for you and decide on its own what that selection should look like, but an ideal solution seems like one that would let you have a little more control over the brush it uses in order to better refine your selection exactly as you intend.
Refine Edge: This seems to be where the Refine Edge feature would jump in and give you more control, but even it takes most of the control out of the user's hands and lets the app assume, again, where the edge should be and the relative smoothness. Choosing Refine Edge from the edit selection button, (the one at the top next to Done), shows you a screen where you can see the edges of your selection with the other areas filled in with red. You then choose either Add or Clear to include more in your selection or remove areas from it. As stated, the app does make improvements to your selection based on its own intelligence, but in this instance, it would be nice to have the brush we choose make our own marks that look exactly as we choose. Photoshop is typically for a more advanced user who craves control over an image. Hopefully in the future, users can get that on a phone or tablet as they do on the desktop.
Alternate Methods
Creating a Shape on a New Layer: To test a method that allowed us to define the brush, and therefore regain some control over the edges of our selections, we tried a slightly more unconventional way. We first made a new layer by selecting the button on the bottom right, then the plus sign that pops up. We just chose Empty Layer, then hit Done. Then we selected the Paint tool, (from the lower left corner, third icon from the bottom), to brush color on top of the area we wanted to select. The Paint tool allows you to control the Size, Hardness, Flow, Opacity and Color, much like you would be able to within the desktop client. While zoomed in, this can provide you a lot of control.
One intriguing aspect of the Paint tool is that you can turn on Edge Aware, which seems to predict where you would and wouldn't want to paint, which does seem somewhat useful for those using merely their fingers. More impressive, however, was the ability to specify whether you were using a stylus and if it should control the Size and/or Opacity based on pressure.
However, we did still notice some disconnect between the relative size of the brush and where your brush actually makes a mark. (An outlined circle seems to help you predict where your mark will be made). It is nice to be able to control the settings of the brush, but it would be nice to have a more accurate representation of where the "paint" is going. This is another hurdle in wrangling control from the app.
Once we made our shape with the Paint tool on the new layer, it was time to make our selection. Within the active layer pixels only exist where we applied color. The Select Pixels option (found in the the edit selection button – the one at the top next to Done) works to select just the area we specified. Once selected, we turned off visibility of the layer that had our colored shape so that we could see the image below.
Non-destructive editing, (keeping the original image intact by keeping changes in other layers with the ability to be turned off and on), is always ideal. So first, with our selection still active, we made a new empty layer in hopes it could house the adjustments, (as is possible in the desktop client of Photoshop, i.e. an adjustment layer). However, we found that adjustments can only affect the active layer.
We were able to select Levels and move the markers on the scale, as can normally be done to adjust the contrast. But there was no change to the layer below containing the image, since the active layer was our empty one. This makes it seem that only destructive editing is possible. Reluctantly, we made the original image layer active and applied the Levels adjustments to it directly.
We achieved our goal of creating a selection based on our specific brush settings and applying adjustments to a specific area with pretty good results. But again, it would be ideal for adjustments to be on their own layer with their own mask as they can be on the desktop. This allows you to continuously edit the selection where you're applying the adjustment until it's right, rather than having to get your shape right the first time.
Creating a Gradient on a New Layer: Another option to create a more natural selection for a simple adjustment is a gradient (found after selecting the & button). With its notorious soft edges, using it as a basis for a selection in a desired area will lead to adjustments that blend smoothly and naturally into your photo. Again, you'd draw the gradient on an empty layer, then, using the circular anchor points to change its size and shape, specify where you want it to be. Once drawn, choose Select Pixels. Then turn visibility off for the gradient layer, make the photo layer active and make adjustments to it. While this does allow you to target a specific area, it is a much more general change and not a solution for very specific changes that need very specific selections. For example, a blue hat that needs to be red.
Overall Impressions
While the inability to practice non-destructive editing was disappointing, it still seemed that the app provided enough tools for basic editing that would satisfy "somewhat-above-average" needs. The goal was to brighten the icing on the cupcake, and we were able to achieve that. Given more time and patience, as is normally needed for any good selection, we could have come up with a pretty convincing altered photo. While the selection of the icing in our example is visibly a little clunky and not as soft or realistic as it could be, this was based on a cursory attempt to test the app. If given more time, we could really take advantage of the relatively proficient Scribble Selection. Or, we could utilize the app's zoom feature and adjust the hardness, softness and opacity of the brush in the Paint tool to create an accurate selection – a feat that proved to be much more difficult in previous mobile offerings from Adobe.
There's plenty more about the app to be explored, but we thought it best to tackle different aspects of it in steps to detail uses of it more clearly. Has anyone else had the same experiences using Photoshop Touch? Do you have a better way to make improved selections?


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Industry: Accounting, Finance & Insurance•
Less than 5 years
Posted 182 days ago
A day in your life as a Product Manager Home Equity:
Under the direction of the Manager, the Product Manager is responsible for actively managing consumer loan products by establishing and ensuring that short and long term plans are successfully met. If applicable or appropriate, assists in business unit's compliance with applicable laws, regulations, regulatory requirements and Bank policies and procedures, including but not limited to those related to Fair Banking, Anti-Money Laundering laws and regulations, Bank Secrecy Act and USA PATRIOT Act. In addition, this position is responsible for demonstrating the Excellence in Sales/Service (ESS) philosophy by participating in and practicing ESS disciplines and behaviors.
We'll give you these important responsibilities…
Bank of Hawaii
In 1897, Bank of Hawaii was the first chartered and incorporated bank in the Republic of Hawaii. We've been here from territorial days, growing and changing with Hawaii. Today, we are the largest independent bank in Hawaii – a result of knowing our business and community, and always staying ahead of change. We are constantly finding creative ways to deliver leading edge financial services to our customers. Now, we're embracing change with our new 21st century banking.
It's our people who help us succeed in offering first class service and products to our customers. As a member of the Bank of Hawaii community, you will be among the very best in your profession in an environment that places a high value on integrity, innovation and teamwork. People who are agile, savvy, forward-thinking and entrepreneurial can learn and grow with us.
Does this sound like you?
Are you ambitious? Want to make a difference in people's lives? Do you thrive in an environment that leverages your abilities as a fast learner, good listener, and problem-solver? If you love challenges, relish complexity, and have moxie, consider applying your unique talents with a Hawaii banking leader – Bank of Hawaii. Here you can be at the forefront of whatever you do. Welcome to your tomorrow!
…if you come to us with these qualifications…
Technical Skills:
Other Job Qualifications:

subset: commoncrawl


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Sometimes it can be hard to tell the difference between acne and rosacea. They both can come with redness, pustules and inflammation so it can be confusing, but if you are treating the wrong ailment – you could end up making things worse. So let's look at how to figure out if you have acne, rosacea, or in some cases – both.
Rosacea sufferers can have acne as part of their symptoms – that is the main reason why many people assume they have acne and not rosacea. Look closely at your skin – if there is a redness that comes and goes and is mainly on the cheek, nose and chin area – it could be rosacea. Dilated blood vessels are also a common symptom of rosacea, and if your eyes are affected in any way – it is most likely rosacea. It is quite common for rosacea sufferers to assume that they simply have acne and their redness is caused by sensitive skin but it usually ends up being rosacea. Fair skinned people are usually the unlucky ones who get this condition, and although it can strike at any age, rosacea generally has an onset of age 30 or so – so if you fit into those categories – it's probably not adult acne, it's rosacea. A great way to treat rosacea symptoms is with the ZENMED Skin Support System. The gentle cleanser and serum it comes with are fantastic for gently helping with the redness, and the mask it comes with is a great treat for when you need some extra soothing. A great addition to this system is our Skin Support Supplement – which contains herbs and vitamins to make your skin look the best it can be.
If you are getting a lot of whiteheads, or any blackheads – those are not signs of rosacea. They can generally be treated with a very gentle exfoliator and a good cleansing routine. More substantial pimples – not accompanied by a lot of redness is acne. Acne can easily be treated with treatments such as the ZENMED Derma Cleanse System, which treats acne naturally from the inside and out – ensuring the acne is stopped at its source so it won't reoccur.
Occasionally someone suffering with rosacea can also have acne. In these cases it is best to treat the skin with rosacea topical because acne medications can sometimes irritate rosacea prone skin, but to treat the acne from its root with the ZENMED Derma Cleanse Capsules.
Take a good look at your skin because knowing what you are dealing with is the first step in choosing the correct treatment.


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2013 Lexus RX 350 Values
Select a 2013 Lexus RX 350 trim level
2013 model year changes
For 2013, Lexus has given the RX lineup a facelift, aligning it with the rest of the carmaker's model range. Changes include new headlights with LED running lights, a deep front fascia and a more aggressive shape to the grille. Subtle changes can be found inside as well, with improved form and function. A Sport Appearance Package joins the options list.
Competitive comparison
Smooth ride; Lexus-worthy quiet cabin; plenty of room for people and cargo
Special features for 2013
The Lexus RX is categorized as a mid-sized luxury SUV, and it still carries enough amenities and horsepower to lead the segment a full 14 years after its 1998 introduction. The RX 450h features a hybrid drivetrain that can run on batteries alone for short distances to save fuel, which equates to 28 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. The RX 350 does all right on its own, achieving 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. With this mid-cycle refresh, Lexus has done more than enough to keep its popular SUV more than relevant in the luxury sport utility conversation.
Now offering an F Sport model that comes equipped with AWD and an 8-speed automatic transmission, the 2013 Lexus RX 350 is a mid-size luxury crossover that sports updated exterior and interior designs for the current model year. The RX 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 270 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque. The 6-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission can be paired with standard FWD or optional AWD. Fuel mileage falls within an EPA estimated of 18 mpg city to 25 mpg highway, depending on drivetrain selection. Features include power rear door, intuitive parking assist, push-button start with SmartAccess, adaptive front lighting, backup camera, heated/ventilated front seats, voice activated navigation, and dual screen rear entertainment system. Safety is comprised of 10-airbag system, anti-lock braking (ABS) with brake assist (BA), vehicle stability control, pre-collision system, smart stop technology, and tire pressure monitoring (TPMS). The RX 350 is backed by a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty.


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Retailers Delivering Grim Forecasts for Rest of 2013
Major retailers, including Wal-Mart, which reported second-quarter sales that grew more slowly than expected, have issued negative for the rest of the year, blaming high gas prices and the 2% payroll tax. Shelly Banjo reports on MoneyBeat. Photo: Getty Images.
This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.
... ay ay mm mm ... Wal-Mart reported disappointing sales figures this morning adding to the gloom that circling around retailers ... here to talk about is Shelly Banjo from the loss to Journal ... socially can you I just just what the what happen Walmart this morning said the biggest headline number was that their sales at stores open at least here went down five point three percent said they were staying at the lowest of the flat and it missed an estimate and ... so disappointing sales figures adds to it but the tough start to the year for Wal-Mart what's driving this for now would be our these broader economic issues or is this just Wal-Mart specific calmness really hammering down on the macroeconomic issues saying that consumers are still really ... The and not doing well this is the lower end consumers they don't get the wealth effect from the housing ... prices going up they don't get the wealth effect from stock market going up ... is the people who are still struggling to get jobs ... and you not to sing a mom I think it was nice easy singer with Kohl's ... reported today as well ... Macy's missed high expectations for the first time in six years found every of these because so far that have reported ... showing weakness ... and so is this is because of the payroll taxes this because of rising gas prices will what you think is driving this for all of these retell this I think it's two reasons the first is the isthe ness bifurcation the high end and pillow and said hi and is getting all the wealth effect from stock market and the housing prices low and isn't feeling any of that ... this thing stagnant wages there saying ... their incomes on going up and they're still in the US on a marketing job a stake in part-time jobs so that any type of money they it they have that they're going to say that are there any use at work really necessary items and not time ... you not discretionary spending ... on the other hand Ahmed on high-end these people are going along with extra bucks they're going to ... buy new cars and consumers money into the house if ... so ... what are these we still are saying about their outlooks are about the forecasts for the second half of the year ... he said that the second heaviest I continue to be twenty one the Fed is looking at the back half of the year when it lands on ... continued that I'm the and toughness for their for their consumers ... such differences of putting items the ends and Wal Mart shares are down about two percent rate now so feeling a little bit although it is you see a chart that stock is still around it's this record highs ... of which were hit earlier this year ... so ... Shelly Banjo thank you so much for joining us here


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Epilepsy Center
Children's Medical Center Dallas
Children's Health℠ is dedicated to making life better for children afflicted with complex conditions that require optimal care – such as epilepsy. We've established a comprehensive center designed to meet your child's needs and address your parental concerns.
Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects your child's neurons (nerve cells), causing these brain information carriers to fire unexpectedly, which can lead to seizures.
This disorder also can affect your entire family. That's why we've invested so much time, effort and resources toward epilepsy treatment and management. Our comprehensive Epilepsy Center offers the largest regional pediatric epilepsy program. We embrace a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists collaborating on a full range of epilepsy care needs.
The Center provides the most advanced procedures, including focal resection, hemispherotomy, laser surgical procedures, and vagal nerve stimulation, among many others.
No matter the treatment regimen, our care team will be with you and your child at every step – offering surgical evaluations and advanced procedures, as well as education about management elements such as diet therapy and medications.
Pediatric epilepsy specialists are supported by registered technologists and nurses trained to work with a variety of pediatric patients.
Why Children's Health℠?
Located in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, Children's Health is the nation's seventh-largest pediatric health care provider. For more than 100 years, Children's Health has been dedicated to making life better for children afflicted with complex conditions that require optimal care.
Our Epilepsy Center is comprehensive and cohesive. Recognitions validate our treatment approach and reflect our dedication to excellent health care and service.
U.S. News & World Report, in its 2018-2019 "Best Children's Hospitals" survey, named us as one of the top U.S. pediatric hospitals. We scored high or superior in categories that include:
- Management of epilepsy patients
- Epilepsy workup and care volume
- Commitment to best practices
- Taking steps to engage family members
- Subspecialist availability
Also, the National Association of Epilepsy Centers designated us as a Level 4 Epilepsy Center, indicating that we provide the highest level of treatment for the most complex cases of pediatric epilepsy.
Further, we provide the resources related to education and outreach. Our programs support you and your family.
Conditions We Treat
- First unprovoked seizure
- Partial epilepsy and generalized epilepsy
- Cortical dysplasia
- Neuronal migration defects
- Lennox-Gastaut syndrome
- Doose syndrome
- Landau-Kleffner syndrome
- Neurofibromatosis
- Tuberous sclerosis
- Sturge-Weber syndrome
- Dravet syndrome
- Rett syndrome
- Angelman syndrome
- Rasmussen's syndrome
Epilepsy Center Highlights
Within our Epilepsy Center, you'll find a team that includes a specialty surgeon, specialist doctors, a neuropsychologist, advanced practice providers, nurses, a dietitian, a neurology practice administrator, program manager, referral coordinator, and social worker. With their empathetic approach, these team members will support you, your child and all other family members.
Statistics underscore our commitment:
- The Center sees more than 7,000 outpatient epilepsy specialty visits each year
- Our accredited neurophysiology lab performs more than 3,000 electroencephalograms (EEGs) each year
- We admit more than 600 patients each year for video-EEG monitoring in the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU)
- Disease-specific certification. Children's Health Epilepsy Center was the first Pediatric Epilepsy Program in the country to be certified through The Joint Commission. The Joint Commission is the nation's predominant standard-setting accrediting and certifying regulatory body in healthcare.
- Children's Health Neurology & Neurosurgery specialty named one of the top. Children's Health Neurology & Neurosurgery specialty was listed in the annual U.S. News & World Report rankings of pediatric specialties.
- Level 4 Epilepsy Center. Designated as a Level 4 Epilepsy Center by the National Association of Epilepsy Centers (NAEC), Children's Medical Center Dallas provides the highest level of treatment for complex Epilepsy patients.
What We Offer
Our program—and its specialists and supportive staff—provide a full range of epilepsy care needs including:
- Care and education after a first seizure
- Second opinions for complicated epilepsy
- Epilepsy surgical evaluations
- Full range of epilepsy surgery options
- Ketogenic diet therapy
- Vagal nerve stimulation
- Access to latest treatments and experimental trials
- Treatment with antiepileptic medications (current and investigational)


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Late last week, Ars Technica found out that Apple's official policy towards the rise of infections with MAC Defender was to simply ignore its existence by not even telling customers when the trojan was found. This 'don't ask, don't tell'-policy rightfully netted the company a lot of criticism, especially since it left users vulnerable who could've been protected by actually informing them of the threat. In a move best described as better late than never, the company has now done exactly that.
"A recent phishing scam has targeted Mac users by redirecting them from legitimate websites to fake websites which tell them that their computer is infected with a virus. The user is then offered Mac Defender 'anti-virus' software to solve the issue," the support document reads, "This 'anti-virus' software is malware (i.e. malicious software). Its ultimate goal is to get the user's credit card information which may be used for fraudulent purposes."
Apple offers removal instructions for MAC Defender, which basically come down to quitting the trojan's service through Activity Monitor, removing it from
~/Applications, and deleting it from your startup applications. PRetty straightforward for us nerds, but I'd say us nerds probably wouldn't get infected in the first place.
Apple also announced that it will release an update for Mac OS X to block the trojan from working in the first place. "In the coming days, Apple will deliver a Mac OS X software update that will automatically find and remove Mac Defender malware and its known variants," the company sates, "The update will also help protect users by providing an explicit warning if they download this malware."
Well, a good response, but more information from the get-go would've been nice. Some call this 'decisive action', but I'd say that when it comes to security, having a policy not to inform your users for weeks on end while they are getting infected is not exactly what I would call 'decisive'.
But hey, what do I know.


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WARRNESBURG, Mo. – On Sunday, the King University men's wrestling team competed at the University of Central Missouri Open. Garrett Fosdyck, Cody Davis and D'Marcus Spencer all reached the semifinals of their weight classes as Fosdyck earned the best finish of fourth at the event.
At 285 pounds, Fosdyck earned his first win of the day on a 6-1 decision over Brian Duncan of Wentworth Military Academy before taking a narrow 4-3 decision over Northeast Oklahoma A&M College's Jacoby Brown to advance to the semifinals. In the semis, the sophomore dropped a tough 2-1 decision to Missouri Valley College's Gabi Mussallam. In the consolation bracket, he defeated McKendree University's Coltyn Pease 10-1 on a major decision to move to the third place bout. However, he fell to Trey Page of Fort Hays State University on an 11-1 major decision to take fourth place.
At the same weight class, teammate Davis turned in a sixth place finish after advancing to the semifinals. He started his day with a 15-6 major decision over Northeast Oklahoma A&M's Mike Baker, and followed that with an 8-5 decision over Justin Smith of Missouri Valley. After dropping his semifinal bout, Davis fell to Page on a 6-2 decision before falling Pease in the fifth place match.
Spencer wrestled at the 133 pound weight class and took home a fifth place finish. Spencer opened with a match against Oklahoma State University's Lincoln Lemon, and advanced on a 10-4 decision. The junior then defeated Central Missouri's Hunter Neighbors on a fall in 1:30 to advance to the semifinals. In the semis, Spencer dropped a tough 5-4 decision to McKendree's Brendan Murphy, dropping him to the consolation bracket. In consolation bracket, Spencer faced a pair of Oklahoma State opponents. He dropped the first bout to Dean Heil before topping Brian Crutchmer on a fall in 2:18 to take fifth place.
Andrew Lutterloh also wrestled well at the 285 pound weight class, going 4-2. He won his first match of the day on a 2-0 decision over Eric Mason before falling to the consolation bracket. In the consolation bracket he won three straight matches before falling to Page on a 5-0 decision in the quarterfinals.
King will be in action again next Sunday when they host the King Open in the Student Center Complex. The tournament will begin at 9:00 a.m.


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ground wrote: Actually there is a lot of religion in many suttas.
Sekha wrote:What do you mean exactly by that?
ground wrote: Investigating into the meaning of religion, the commmon denominator of all religions resulted in categorising as religion all words - either spoken or written - that cause affirmation of ideas of a future "state of being" or similar that is imagined to be better, more attractive, worthwhile to strive for but is not supported by any kind of experience accessible. I.e. it is just sort of worshipping of ideas as if these were more that just mere ideas.
Well actually there is a lot of religion in many suttas. E.g. the idea of nibbana, idea of "better" re-birth, idea of end of stress ... these ideas refer to an idea of a future to come or future achievement fostering hope and confidence if cultivated with focus and may entail reduction of stress regardless of whether something will ever be achieved or come in an imagined future ... simply through being cultivated. This is meant to be "religion". But of course you do not have to subscribe to this understanding of the term "religon". It is the result of investigation and has become certain knowledge. Some have aversion against being known as "religious" since they consider this to be the sphere of non-truth or mere belief and inferiority but cling to the idea of truth and want to be superior. But this is just the sense of self. Sense of self actually is the support for religion. Because what is it that wants to achieve anything? But there is no problem with this ... it just is as it is.Sekha wrote:then the teaching of the Buddha doesn't fit this definition.


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To contact Holly Ward directly please fill out the following form as completely as possible. When finished, click the Submit button to send your contact request. You will receive a response from us shortly.
Corporate Office:
6100 Preston Rd., Suite 201
Frisco, TX 75034
Ph: 469.362.5300
Fx: 972.476.8625
Branch Office:
5711 McPherson, Suite 202
Laredo, Tx 78041
Ph: 956.729.0799
Fx: 956.712.3996


text: As a wedding blogger, it's kind of part of my job description to be a sucker for a good love story. And oh, you can bet I've whipped out the Kleenex more times than I can count my friends. From a lifetime of love (66 years and seven kids to be exact!) to a modern Instagram-follow meeting, love is love and it sure is sweet. See some of our favorite stories right here.


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They thought it would be easier to come back now that the devil was dead.
And even though they cheered and applauded, and went to Ground Zero yesterday to personally thank the president of the United States for putting a bullet in the brain of that evil, murderous Osama bin Laden, the day still ended the way it did the day before, without their parents, without their children, without their husbands and wives.
"Nothing will ever bring back my father," said Victoria Giordano, 21, of Staten Island, whose firefighter dad, Jeffrey, died on 9/11. "But the president told us he would never forget about us."
Giordano's emotional embrace with President Obama highlighted a day 10 years in the making that many thought they'd never live to see.
But there was Obama in all his glory, the conquering hero who had slain the wicked beast with his mighty Navy SEALs.
Hours earlier, jaded New Yorkers and picture-taking tourists jammed the streets of lower Manhattan hoping for a chance to see Obama's lengthy motorcade.
Ten years earlier, these same avenues had been caked with thick dust from two fallen towers, an apocalypse come to life in a city that was off-limits to terrorists.
"I want my kids to get a glimpse of Barack Obama," said Gina Goldman, 45, as she stood behind a barricade along Liberty Street, with her 3-year-old daughter and her 5-year-old son.
They stood behind a sign that said, "We have always loved you," which was not nearly as big as the "We love you" sign that hung from their window several stories above them.
Goldman and her husband, Walter Schupfer, bought a condo across the street from Ground Zero three years ago, a front-row seat to the rebirth of lower Manhattan.
"Our family has grown with the site," Goldman said. "It felt like the right thing to do and the right thing to tell my children."
Around the corner along Church Street, enterprising vendors hawked "Mission Accomplished" T-shirts and American flags. Awestruck tourists craned their necks to see the skyscrapers behind the fence that were rising from the ashes.
Suddenly, a roar rose up from the crowd. Pedestrians thought the president had arrived. But the cheer was for a firetruck returning to Engine Co. 10 near the World Trade Center. Along its windshield in big block letters were the words, "We Support Our Troops."
Shouts of "USA! USA!" filled the downtown air.
Moments later, the crowd came to life again as Obama arrived for a solemn wreath-laying ceremony.
There, with the help of Fire Lt. Joseph LaPointe, Obama laid a wreath filled with red roses and white and blue hydrangeas. He clasped his hands, bowed his head and closed his eyes for 20 seconds.
"I think it was a pretty nice thing to come back here," LaPointe said later about the president's visit. "I told him thank you for getting the job done."


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Apple will be changing how VPN On Demand for iOS works due to a lawsuit by VirnetX. iOS devices running 6.1 or later that have VPN On Demand set to "Always" will now behave as though they were set to "Establish if needed". The device will only use a VPN On Demand connection when it is necessary. This change will be made with an update at some point this month.
Apple says that they plan to address the functionality lost by this change with alternatives that will come in a future software update. If you currently use VPN On Demand, Apple suggests that you prepare for the change by creating a new VPN profile set to "Establish if needed" that is otherwise identical to your current profile in order to see how this change will impact you.


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Looking for a luton airport transfer to take you to cannock, Then why not let us take you in a nice Mercedes E Class car.
Luton Airport chauffeur service provided by hertfordshire chauffeurs. We specialize in airport taxi transfers to and from Luton Airport for both individuals and groups, with the accent on a courteous, professional and personal service at affordable prices. 24 hours a day. 7 days a week.
Luton Airport Transfer To Cannock £130
Telephone: +44 (0) 1442 620048
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
To obtain an online quotation and make a booking please use the Book online link . Simply enter the pick up location i.e Luton Airport and select the Airport or for a private address enter the location. Click 'Quote Now' and you will be presented with a quote for the different types of vehicles available. Click on the one that you require and enter the information required. Once the booking is complete we will email you confirmation of the reserved journey(s).
[contact-form 1 "Contact form 1"]


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Community Events
TOPS Chapter
Name: TOPS Chapter
Date: September 21, 2017
Time: 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM CDT
Website: http://www.tops.org
Event Description:
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) is a non profit weight loss support group locally meeting weekly on Thursdays with weigh in beginning at 5:30 to 6:00 pm and meeting from 6:00 - 6:30 pm. Provides healthy programs, discussions, recipes, exercise, and incentives for weight loss with lots of support. TOPS is a national organization with over 10,000 chapters.


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Vancouver Whitecaps FC women (3W-5L-6D) wrapped up their United Soccer League W-League season on Sunday, as they lost 1-0 to the fourth-place Colorado Rapids Women (5W-5L-4D) at Dick's Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado.
Whitecaps FC started the game off on the right foot, however, luck was not on their side. Goalkeeper Alyssa Williamson connected with striker Mele French from a goal kick, sending her in on a breakaway eight minutes into the match. The Hawaiian struck a shot that seemed destined for goal, but it rang off the woodwork to keep the match scoreless.
On18 minutes, French was presented another chance for the Blue and White, as this time, Jenna Carosio sent her in one-on-one with the goalkeeper, but she sent her shot just wide of the far post. The match remained scoreless heading into halftime.
"I thought we had good control and possession throughout the first half," said Whitecaps FC women's head coach Jesse Symons. "I thought we carried the momentum well from Friday, but just weren't able to capitalize on our chances."
The 'Caps seemed to pick up right where they left off in the second half. French used some fancy footwork to get around a defender, and for the third time in the game got in alone towards goal, but unfortunately she sailed her shot over the crossbar.
The Rapids would finally break the deadlock on 69 minutes. Australian international Brooke Spence took a shot from 25 yards out that looked to be going wide when it took a bad bounce for the 'Caps, as it deflected off Carosio and past Williamson to give the home side a 1-0 lead.
Whitecaps FC tried to get back into the game, as striker Brandi Vega had a shot that pushed just past the far post. With the game hanging in the balance in the 89th minute, 'Caps defender Demi Stokes sent midfielder Natalie Boyd in on a breakaway. However, a goal just was not on the cards, as Boyd was denied by Rapids goalkeeper Lauren Robertson to preserve their 1-0 lead.
"It's a tough way to end the season," said Symons. "We were able to get points off every team in the conference, we just weren't able to complete the objective and get into the playoffs. We will look to push forward and build on the positives for next season."
Scoring Summary:
69' - COL - Brooke Spence
Match Stats:
Shots: Vancouver 13 - Colorado 7
Saves: Vancouver 7 - Colorado 16
Fouls: Vancouver 5 - Colorado 9
Corners: Vancouver 3 - Colorado 2
Offsides: Vancouver 5 - Colorado 1
Colorado Rapids Women
1.Lauren Robertson; 4.Kelsey Neal, 14.Kelci Newlin (2.Lynnsey Janes 85'), 19.Erin Gunther, 25.Brooke Spence; 3.Scotti Lee Culton, 5.Erin Bello, 7.Megan Woodworth (15.Allison Belsterling 55'), 9.Camilla Larsen (20.Jaucelyn Richter 58'), 17.Lexi Tagen (6.Laura Thacker 89'); 24.Karisa Price (12.Amanda McMullan 73')
Substitutes used: 10.Ode Fulutudilu
Substitutes not used: 18.Hannah Clark
Vancouver Whitecaps FC
31.Ally Williamson; 4.Danielle Johnson, 20.Alison Fenter (28.Brittany Galindo 45'), 33.Shannon Woeller, 8.Demi Stokes; 23.Jennifer Jeffers (16.Mary Kate McLaughlin 54'), 25.Jenna Carosio, 21.Paige Adams (19.Molly Rouse 34'); 2.Taylor Patterson (9.Natalie Boyd 59'), 29.Mele French (22.Brandi Vega 75'), 24.Marissa Mykines (7.Brienna Shaw 75')
Substitutes not used: 30.Gurveen Clair


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Brussels, 7 June 2011
Road charging: Heavy lorries to pay for costs of air and noise pollution
Member States look set to be able to charge heavy lorries, not only for the costs of infrastructure which is currently the case, but also to levy an additional charge to cover the costs of air and noise pollution, following a vote in the European Parliament today (Tues 7 June 2011). The new rules which revise the current "Eurovignette Directive" will also give Member States better tools to manage problems of congestion, with a new flexibility to vary the charge for heavy lorries (by up to 175%) at different times of the day. Importantly the new rules provide strong incentives to Member States for "earmarking" revenues i.e. to set aside new charging revenues for investment in sustainable transport infrastructure (TEN-T) projects.
Siim Kallas, Vice-President of the European Commission responsible for Transport, said: "These new EU rules will send the right price signals to operators so they will invest more in efficient logistics, less polluting vehicles and more sustainable transport at large. They also give Member States new tools to fight congestion with possibilities to vary charges at different times of the day to get heavy lorries off the roads at peak periods. This is a very important step in the right direction- towards creating a fair financial environment where prices across different transport modes reflect the real costs to society and the taxpayer."
The "Eurovignette" Directive - Frequently asked questions:
What is the Directive on charging heavy goods vehicles that the Commission proposed to revise?
The Eurovignette Directive on charging heavy goods vehicles for the use of infrastructure was originally adopted in 1999. It provides a framework for the levying of road charges on heavy goods vehicles for using roads that are part of the trans-European network. The Directive authorises, but does not oblige, Member States to levy 'user charges' (time-based charges, e.g. per day, per week, per year) or tolls (distance-based charges e.g. per kilometre) on lorries above 3.5 tonnes - small lorries - provided that it does not result in any discrimination and that the charges are set at a level which does not exceed the recovery of costs of which are strictly necessary to maintain and replace the road infrastructure. The original aim of the Directive was to preserve the smooth functioning of the internal market – preventing any abusive and discriminatory charging by Member States (e.g. Member States imposing higher charges on lorries from other Member States). Eleven Member States are currently applying tolls (Austria, France, Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Greece and Ireland) and 10 apply user charges (Belgium, the Netherlands, Sweden, Luxembourg, Denmark, Poland, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Lithuania) out of which three have already announced that they will shift to tolls very soon (Hungary, Poland, Belgium).
What is the problem with the current Directive?
The current Eurovignette Directive allows Member States to set tolls at levels required to maintain and replace infrastructure. It prohibits the recovery of other costs, e.g. the so-called external costs such as air pollution and noise costs. These are costs that road users generate but do not pay for although they must be borne by society at large and therefore tax payers. In 2008 the Commission prepared a strategy called the "Greening Transport Package" to extend the "user pays" principle to the polluter pays principle i.e. to allow for the internalisation of the external costs across all modes of transport - and ensure what economists call fair and efficient pricing. Included in that package was a proposal to revise the Eurovignette Directive to allow for the inclusion of air and noise pollution costs in the calculation of tolls. By giving clearer price signals to road users, they will change and adapt their travel behaviour by better planning their transport operations, choosing to drive less polluting vehicles and avoiding driving on congested roads sections during peak periods. The current Directive specifically prevents the inclusion of external costs in the toll rates and that is why it needs to be updated and revised.
What are the main changes proposed and how would they solve the problem?
The new rules will::
What happens next?
After the vote in the Parliament, the text must be formally adopted by the Council before the Summer. After that Member States will have two years to transpose it in their national law before it comes into force.
How and where are tolls levied in practice?
About 30,000 km of motorways are current tolled in Europe. About half of these are in the TEN-T network and therefore fall under the scope of the Eurovignette Directive. Under the revised Directive, which extends the scope of the old Directive, all motorways will be covered. This is a substantial increase with all of Europe's 30,000 km of tolled motorway covered by the new Directive, instead of only 15,000 km under the old one.
Currently, existing toll rates vary typically between 15 and 25 cent per kilometre depending on the type of lorry and the network. The new Directive would de facto authorise an increase of toll rates, if Member States decide to do so, of around 20-30%.
Tolls are currently collected either at tollbooths where the lorries have to stop or through electronic means via "on board units" that transmit data from the vehicles to special receivers on the road. A separate Directive, Directive 2004/52/EC on electronic toll services, ensures the technical and contractual interoperability at EU level of such electronic toll systems as from the end of 2012 (for heavy good vehicles).
How would the new charges for external costs be calculated?
The Directive provides that chargeable external costs of transports must be calculated according to well established and common scientific methods. The study IMPACT gives a good overview of these methods.1 In a nutshell the cost of air or noise pollution generated by a vehicle is the quantity of pollution emitted (grams of pollutants or decibels) multiplied by the monetary costs of the effects of this pollution on human health. The latter are estimated on the basis of epidemiologic studies, of actual public expenditure and economic survey of the willingness to pay.
What is the Eurovignette?
This piece of legislation is often known by stakeholders as the Eurovignette Directive. But Eurovignette is in fact the name of a time-based road user charging scheme that is jointly operated by Belgium, Denmark, Luxemburg, the Netherlands and Sweden. The Eurovignette was also the name of the sticker (or vignette) that the users of this scheme had to attach to the windscreens of their vehicles. However, since the beginning of 2008 the Eurovignette is an electronic system and physical vignettes are no longer printed. There are other Member States that operate their own national vignette systems.
What rules apply outside the trans-European network and motorways?
It is important to remember that Member States can of course also introduce road charges on roads that are outside the scope of this Directive. In that case it is for individual Member States to decide what level of charge they introduce.
It is only when road charges are introduced for lorries on roads that are within the scope of this Directive that the rules of the Directive have to be followed.
Urban areas in particular are outside the scope of the Directive due to the subsidiarity principle. Therefore urban congestion charging schemes such as those implemented in London and Stockholm are not covered by the Directive. For all the roads not covered by the Directive, General Treaty principles including proportionality and non discrimination still have to be observed.
History of the Directive on charging heavy goods vehicles
1993: Adoption of Council Directive 93/89/EEC to set a minimum annual tax level, cap the user charges and authorise tolls based on infrastructure costs. The Directive was then annulled in 1995 by the Court of Justice at the request of the European Parliament who was wrongly excluded from the decision making process.
1999: Adoption of Directive 1999/62/EC, this time adopted in co-decision by the European Parliament and the Council, and repeating to a large extent the substance of the previous Directive. The Directive confirms the "user pay principle" as a one of the guiding principle of the transport policy.
2006: Adoption of Directive 2006/38/EC amending Directive 1999/62/EC in order to allow toll variation and to allow a mark-up added on tolls in exceptional cases to finance trans-European network projects in mountain areas. The mark-up is currently used to co-finance the construction of the Brenner rail basis tunnel.
2008: Within a wider "Greening Transport Package" adopted in July 2008, the Commission proposed to extend the user pays principle to the polluter pays principle. A proposal is adopted to allow the inclusion of air and noise pollution costs in the calculation of tolls (proposal to revise the Eurovignette Directive).
(see http://ec.europa.eu/transport/sustainable/doc/2008_costs_handbook.pdf).
Side Bar


text: While surfing the net I came across the above map. It was "created from a reference photo of a real human brain which was used to build the 3d terrain. This digital elevation model was then used to create contour line data, relief shading and to plan where the roads and features should be placed for map compilation."


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MILTON KEYNES, England (AP) -- To a thumping soundtrack and an atmospheric setting, Red Bull took the wraps off the RB9 car it hopes will provide the English lineup with its fourth straight driver and constructor titles.
Reigning triple world champion Sebastian Vettel and teammate Mark Webber unveiled Sunday a car that is swathed in purple to promote a new title sponsor but appears to have few notable technological changes.
"It's very much an evolutionary car with the devil very much in the detail as we've tidied up a few bits from last year,'' said chief technical officer Adrian Newey, who designed the latest Red Bull challenger.
While Webber will have the first chance to drive the RB9 on Tuesday in testing at Jerez, Red Bull will be looking to Vettel to bring home a fourth straight drivers' title when the 2013 season begins at the Australian Grand Prix on March 17.
"I'm very excited now,'' the German driver said. "Now we have to see whether it works as good as it looks.
"It all starts again from zero, a very tough challenge.''
Newey has retained the stepped nose with a short so-called "vanity panel'' to cover the ungainly front. The car has lost the driver cooling slot and Newey has tweaked the color scheme.
The launch was made amid a "rave'' setting, featuring a dark and moody background, before loud music accompanied a video called "The Rhythm of the Factory'' that showed the making of the car.
"I cannot wait to get in the car on Tuesday,'' said Webber, who has been with the team for seven years. "I've been strapped to Adrian's cars for quite a while now, and I can trust them.''
Vettel won the 2012 title by just three points over Fernando Alonso of Ferrari and those two are expected to be the two leading challengers this year.
"People expect something (from Red Bull) but more than that we expect to do well ourselves,'' Vettel said. "There is a lot of pressure. I'm excited to get back in the car, go racing.
"It will be tough to beat Mark, tough to beat the other guys, the other teams."


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Teetering on the Brink of Chaos
In Turkey, the process of electing the country's eleventh president has been accompanied by ongoing demonstrations against the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP). An important segment of society has taken to the streets with the backing of the army to oppose the likely election of the candidate nominated by the AKP. Will Turkey's future be shaped by this election? Attila Azrak spoke to Ertuğrul Kürkçü, site coordinator of the independent communications network bianet.org, and asked him what he thinks
Has Turkey ever been in a situation like this before or is this the first time the presidential election has been so controversial?
Ertuğrul Kürkçü: Actually, all of Turkey's presidential elections have been characterised by this sort of tension and contention. If we look back, for instance, at the presidency of İsmet İnönü, who succeeded the first president, Mustafa Kemal, or at that of Celal Bayar, İnönü's successor, all of Turkey's presidents have either ascended to the state's top office as a result of considerable domestic strife, or have been appointed with the parliament's consent as a means of ensuring post-coup military continuity.
From this standpoint, it is apparent that in recent history, elections in Turkey have been very tense. I remember that at the time of Özal's presidential election, the very same political actors employed the very same rhetoric they are using now.
At that time, Deniz Baykal, the party leader of the Republican People's Party (CHP), said, "We'll bring him down from that office in disgrace." Now, he's saying, "I won't let him (Erdoğan) take that office." But who is to know whether Abdullah Gül is a more suitable candidate for society?
Why is the office of president so important in Turkey?
Kürkçü: I see the office of president as the office of an oligarchic dictatorship in which extremely antidemocratic powers, which have not in fact been authorized by society, recognize one person by law. In this office, it is not possible to accomplish anything beneficial to society. If you ask me, it is inevitable that whoever becomes president will — by virtue of his position and function — behave like the senior judge of an assize court.
For this reason, as a constitutional system, the office of president needs to undergo radical change. In my opinion, a symbolic president is sufficient. Moreover, it is nonsensical for the power of the executive to be divided and shared in this way.
The power of the executive needs to be balanced by a very strong parliamentary system, by very powerful legislative and judicial branches. Yet the constitution not only treats the executive and legislative branches as almost identical, it also leaves oversight of the judicial to the legislative and executive branches. This is what makes it a completely dictatorial-oligarchic system.
This system, which is anchored in the constitution, was established on the assumption that, from the standpoint of the 12 September regime of 1980, individuals like Kenan Evren would remain at the helm of the state. The power behind the 1980 coup, i.e. the army, has now fallen victim to its own weapon. They now see themselves faced with the fact that a socio-political segment of society, to which they are bitterly opposed, has nominated a candidate for the office.
Had today's parliament been formed as a result of a fundamentally fair election - which, by the way, is a consequence of the laws originating in the 1980 coup - the Justice and Development Party (AKP) could never have obtained the majority it now commands.
What is your interpretation of the statement made by the General Staff and the subsequent decision handed down by the Constitutional Court?
Kürkçü: In my opinion, the statement made by the military was intended as a warning, something along the lines of the fact that if the Constitutional Court not handed down the decision it did, the military would have had no choice but to seize power. Similarly, CHP party leader Deniz Baykal's attitude that, "If a decision to annul the vote in parliament is not handed down, chaos will ensue," was intended to reinforce this warning.
The Constitutional Court has handed down a decision that, from a legal point of view, is completely absurd and reflects neither the spirit nor the letter of the actual constitution. It was pressurized into this decision by the military with a view to saving the country from chaos. However, in doing so, it overstepped its authority.
This decision will have long-term consequences; it paves the way for a great deal of confusion and unrest, and will call into question the legitimacy of past presidential elections. It will make it very hard for the parliament to come up with a new timetable and will make it quite difficult for elections to be held at an early date.
In conclusion, one could say that the constitutional system in Turkey has sustained a broadside torpedo hit, and until it takes refuge in a tranquil port, attempts will be made to stay the course by baling the boat and administering sedative tablets to the passengers and crew.
First there were demonstrations in Ankara, then there were demonstrations in Istanbul. What kind of influence do the people have on presidential elections?
Kürkçü: I imagine that fewer problems would have been experienced had the populace made a greater contribution. The principal issue is the election of the parliament and the formation of the government. The idea that Turkey needs a powerful president is, to my mind, a notion peculiar to those who yearn for dictatorship.
We are experiencing this whole crisis because the majority in parliament is determined by a minority of the electorate in Turkey.
What must be done to change this situation?
Kürkçü: For the situation to be changed, we need societal will. I would have expected the CHP, the main opposition party in parliament, to drum up support among all of Turkey's societal forces and take the initiative to bring about lasting constitutional change. Instead, throughout this period, reforms relating to the European Union and topics like the Copenhagen criteria have topped the agenda.
Turkey could have seized this opportunity. Instead, the CHP chose to speak for the powers that are in favour of maintaining the status quo. As a result, an utterly asymmetrical and confrontational situation has emerged.
It is actually the ruling, right-wing, religion-oriented party that has been implementing the reforms society expects to the extent that it has proven politically expedient. The so-called populist and left-wing opposition party, on the other hand, is trying to block these reforms. It's an utterly ridiculous situation. I mean, Turkey is experiencing a representational crisis.
I am sceptical as to whether this can be avoided in the elections. The overall picture is one of secularists up in arms against the threat of the foundation of a religious state; yet this threat is not as great as it is made out to be. Yes, of course we have seen the ascendancy of political Islam, but this is offset by a powerful will of the people. From the standpoint of the current government, the steps that can be taken are quite limited.
For instance, had this so-called "secular segment" of the population not been occupied by a fear of the Kurds, the Justice and Development Party would not have succeeded in getting its forty MPs from the South-East into parliament.
The existing election system stipulates that a party must receive at least ten per cent of the national vote. This means that the votes of four out of every ten voters are not reflected in the parliament.
The fact that the opposition party has not sought to ensure that society's wishes are reflected in parliament has unfortunately made it impossible for it to fulfil its role. I'm not altogether sure we will be able to change this overall situation in the general elections, either.
Is the fact that Erdoğan nominated Abdullah Gül as candidate an indication of all this?
Kürkçü: Yes, definitely. As far as I can see, those in favour of progressive, secular, social justice and the salvation of the downtrodden face a serious problem: the offices of president, prime minister, and parliamentary speaker will all be in the hands of a party that is right-wing in its world outlook, emphasizes metaphysical and religious elements in its social views, seeks to promote creationist theory in national education, and lives by a system of beliefs that believes women ought to be restricted in social life.
This will adversely affect educational and professional life in Turkey.
In terms of equal opportunities on the labour market, women have already begun to be intentionally left behind. Women are not being encouraged to participate in professional life. Everywhere they turn, they encounter subtle messages that hint at the virtues of bearing children and being a housewife. Once all the components of such an administration have fallen into place, it will constitute a grave problem for us all.
However, it is fair to say that the option of inviting the military to prevent all this would be at least as appalling, because all of this has happened as the ultimate consequence of a process of military intervention that chose religion as an ally in the "struggle against communism."
Do you expect there to be a change in Turkey's political landscape after the election?
Kürkçü: I don't expect any change in fundamentals. Perhaps in foreign policy there may be a change in perspectives and some re-evaluation. When it comes to the question of whether talks will be held with Talabani or whether to further cooperation with the European Union over the Cyprus issue, the answers may change to a lesser or greater extent.
In the final analysis, however, no great rift will arise between the army and the government on these matters. The power that the Justice and Development Party now holds is disproportionate to the proportion of society it represents. The ability of this situation to last depends on avoiding confrontation with the army and securing the approval of the international community.
Interview:Attila Azrak
© Qantara.de 2007
Translated from the Turkish by Nat Riley
The Turkish Presidential Election
The ruling party gives up on Europe
Prime Minister Erdogan's AK Party is trying to secure its grip on all the main offices of state. In his commentary Jürgen Gottschlich says that this is because it has come to the conclusion that the chances of accession to the European Union have substantially diminished
Turkey and Europe
Few political issues are as contested as Turkey's possible accession to the European Union. Will Ankara be able to meet all the criteria in the long term? In our dossier, sponsored by the Ernst Reuter Initiative, we take a look at political, societal and cultural relations between Turkey and Europe


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Do you want to develop your legal skills, get practical
legal experience, see what it is like to work in a corporation,
firm or government agency and -- at the same time -- make
yourself more marketable to prospective employers? If so,
then consider doing a for-credit externship and signing
up for Chicago-Kent's Legal Externship Program (LEP).
LEP is 4-credit hours, non-graded, and open predominantly
to students in their last three semesters of law school.
Externs interested in civil law may select to work in
such diverse legal areas as immigration, tax, commodities,
securities, health care, medical malpractice, or general
corporate law. Externs in criminal law may choose to work
with the States Attorney's Office, Public Defender's Office,
or the U.S. Attorney's Office. Some externships offer the
opportunity to obtain a 711 license and appear in court.
More information about Legal Externships and an accompanying
application form are now available in the Law Offices reception
area, Room 600, and in the Career Services Office.
If you want to know more about available externship opportunities,
please e-mail Professor Vivien Gross (firstname.lastname@example.com)
to set up an appointment.
Spring 2008 Semester: Externships with U.S. Attorney's
Northern District of Illinois
If you are interested in exposure to and possible participation
in federal trial and appellate practice while assisting
the U.S. Attorney's Office in handling its multitude of
important cases, please pick up an application from Carole
Ross, administrative assistant to Professor Gross, in Room
Completed applications must be received at the Office
of the U.S. Attorney by Wednesday, September 12, 2007. The
reason for this accelerated date is because each accepted
extern must go through a security clearance, which takes
several weeks.
To receive law school credit for this externship, should
you be selected by the U.S. Attorney's Office, you must
enroll in the law school's Legal Externship Program. The
law school's externship applications for Spring semester,
2008, will be available in mid-October in Room 600 Law Offices
reception area and in the Career Services office.
Professor Gross will be happy to answer any questions
you may have about either the Legal Externship Program and/or
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(Photos of Ben Wolf at work and Swoon's installation in Detroit)
I recently had the good fortune to be able to be a part of a project put on by Juxtapoz in Detroit. A handful of artists were given abandoned houses to transform into art installations. The houses were either next door to each other, or across the street. The participating artists included Swoon, RETNA, Monica Canilao, Richard Colman, Saelee Oh and Ben Wolf. The project will appear in the February issue of Juxtapoz, but until then I am leaking a few images you won't see in the magazine. More of the other artists to come...
How's this for a serious holiday gem? (an almost-Sucka-Pants-exclusive)
• Dark Dark Dark - Christmas Time Is Here
A band's place at last.
-- Tod Seelie
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Reel World
Family Feud
Are you a terrible parent? Would you like to broadcast that fact to the rest of the world? Well, you're in luck. ABC's reality show "SuperNanny" is casting for Season 5 right here in New Mexico. You can e-mail local casting director Aaron Giombolini of Kathryn Brink Casting at email@example.com with contact info, family size and troubling (yet entertaining) parenting issues. Or you can brave the open casting call on Saturday, Dec. 5, at the Albuquerque International Balloon Museum from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Try not to feed your kids before you go. They'll be extra cranky that way. Oh, and be sure to tell them Richard Heene sent you.
Film Interview
Dahl Parts
An interview with Fantastic Mr. Fox director Wes Anderson
Just in case anyone ever phones you up and asks if you wanna meet writer/director Wes Anderson at a café near the Albuquerque train station in a half-hour for a brief interview, the correct answer is yes. Even if he isn't your favorite filmmaker (and he's definitely in my top 10), he's a smart, soft-spoken guy with a good vocabulary and a disarming fashion sense.
Film Review
Fantastic Mr. Fox
Picture-book classic mixes the familiar and the stylish with imaginative results
A month or so after indie auteur Spike Jonze's iconoclastic take on Maurice Sendak's beloved childhood classic Where the Wild Things Are hit theaters comes indie auteur Wes Anderson's iconoclastic take on Roald Dahl's beloved childhood classic Fantastic Mr. Fox. Cynical viewers could be forgiven for sensing a trend: thirtysomething nerd-hipsters doing postmodern spit-shines on their most cherished childhood memories. Whether we'll soon see Sofia Coppola's take on Harold and the Purple Crayon remains to be seen.
Idiot Box
Digest This
Thanksgiving around the dial
When you get right down to it, Thanksgiving isn't much of a holiday. There's a big meal and then ... not much else. No Easter egg hunts, no opening of presents, no knocking on neighbors' doors begging for candy. Not even a little dreidel spinning. Basically, after pigging out on turkey and mashed potatoes, everybody just sits around and digests. Which makes it a little confusing as to why television networks refuse to air anything remotely interesting. What else are we going to do besides watch TV? Talk to our relatives?


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Chapter XII
the Baroness had spent several days disquieted by anxious fears and unsatisfied curiosity. Since the late adventure, the Counts demeanor had been altogether an enigma to her. His manner was changed; none of his customary jokes were to be heard. His demands on the company and the servants had very much abated. Little pedantry or imperiousness was now to be discerned in him; he was silent and thoughtful; yet withal he seemed composed and placid; in short, he was quite another man.
In choosing the books which now and then he caused to be read to him, those of a serious, often a religious cast were pitched upon; and the Baroness lived in perpetual fright lest, beneath this apparent serenity, a secret rancour might be lurking; a silent purpose to revenge the offence he had so accidentally discovered. She determined, therefore, to make Jarno her confidant; and this the more freely, as that gentleman and she already stood in a relation to each other, where it is not usual to be very cautious in keeping secrets. For some time Jarno had been her dearest friend; yet they had been dextrous enough to conceal their attachment and joys from the noisy world in which they moved. To the Countess alone this new romance had not remained unknown; and very possibly the Baroness might wish to get her fair friend occupied with some similar engagement, and thus to escape the silent reproaches she had often to endure from that noble-minded woman.
Scarcely had the Baroness related the occurrence to her lover, when he cried out, laughing: To a certainty the old fool believes that he has seen his ghost! He dreads that the vision may betoken some misfortune, perhaps death to him, and so he is become quite tame, as all half-men do, in thinking of that consummation which no one has escaped, or will escape. Softly a little! As I hope he will live long enough, we may now train him at least, so that he shall not again give disturbance to his wife and household.
They accordingly, as soon as any opportunity occurred, began talking, in the presence of the Count, about warnings, visions, apparitions, and the like. Jarno played the sceptic, the Baroness likewise; and they carried it so far, that his Lordship at last took Jarno aside, reproved him for his freethinking, and produced his own experience to prove the possibility, nay actual occurrence, of such preternatural events. Jarno affected to be struck; to be in doubt; and finally to be convinced: but in private with his friend, he made himself so much the merrier at the credulous weakling, who had thus been cured of his evil habits by a bugbear, but who, they admitted, still deserved some praise for expecting dire calamity, or death itself, with such composure.
The natural result, which the present apparition might have had, would possibly have ruffled him! exclaimed the Baroness, with her wonted vivacity; to which, when anxiety was taken from her heart, she had instantly returned. Jarno was richly rewarded; and the two contrived fresh projects for frightening the Count still farther; and still farther exciting and confirming the affection of the Countess for Wilhelm.
With this intention, the whole story was related to the Countess. She, indeed, expressed her displeasure at such conduct; but from that time she became more thoughtful, and in peaceful moments seemed to be considering, pursuing and painting out that scene which had been prepared for her.
The preparations, now going forward on every side, left no room for doubt that the armies were soon to move in advance, and the Prince at the same time to change his headquarters. It was even said that the Count intended leaving his Castle, and returning to the city. Our players could therefore, without difficulty, calculate the aspect of their stars; yet none of them, except Melina, took any measures in consequence: the rest strove only to catch as much enjoyment as they could from the moment that was passing over them.
Wilhelm, in the mean time, was engaged with a peculiar task. The Countess had required from him a copy of his writings; and he looked on this request as the noblest recompense for his labours.
A young author, who has not yet seen himself in print, will, in such a case, apply no ordinary care to provide a clear and beautiful transcript of his works. It is like the golden age of authorship: he feels transported into those centuries when the press had not inundated the world with so many useless writings, when none but excellent performances were copied, and kept by the noblest men; and he easily admits the illusion, that his own accurately ruled and measured manuscript may itself prove an excellent performance, worthy to be kept and valued by some future critic.
The Prince being shortly to depart, a great entertainment had been appointed in honour of him. Many ladies of the neighbourhood were invited; and the Countess had dressed herself betimes. On this occasion, she had taken a costlier suit than usual. Her head-dress, and the decorations of her hair, were more exquisite and studied: she wore all her jewels. The Baroness, too, had done her utmost to appear with becoming taste and splendour.
Philina, observing that both ladies, in expectation of their guests, felt the time rather tedious, proposed to send for Wilhelm, who was wishing to present his manuscript, now completed, and to read them some other little pieces. He came; and on his entrance was astonished at the form and the graces of the Countess, which her decorations had but made more visible and striking. Being ordered by the ladies, he began to read; but with so much absence of mind, and so badly, that had not his audience been excessively indulgent, they would very soon have dismissed him.
Every time he looked at the Countess, it seemed to him as if a spark of electric fire were glancing before his eyes. In the end, he knew not where to find the breath he wanted for his reading. The Countess had always pleased him; but now it appeared as if he never had beheld a being so perfect and so lovely. A thousand thoughts flitted up and down his soul; what follows might be nearly their substance.
How foolish is it in so many poets, and men of sentiment as they are called, to make war on pomp and decoration; requiring that women of all ranks should wear no dress but what is simple and conformable to nature! They rail at decoration, without once considering, that when we see a plain or positively ugly person clothed in a costly and gorgeous fashion, it is not the poor decoration that displeases us. I would assemble all the judges in the world, and ask them here if they wished to see one of these folds, of these ribbons and laces, these braids, ringlets and glancing stones removed? Would they not dread disturbing the delightful impression that so naturally and spontaneously meets us here? Yes, naturally I will say! As Minerva sprang in complete armour from the head of Jove, so does this goddess seem to have stept forth with a light foot, in all her ornaments, from t he bosom of some flower.
While reading, he turned his eyes upon her frequently, as if he wished to stamp this image on his soul forever; he more than once read wrong, yet without falling into confusion of mind; though, at other times, he used to feel the mistaking of a word or a letter as a painful deformity, which spoiled a whole recitation.
A false alarm of the arrival of the guests put an end to the reading; the Baroness went out; and the Countess, while about to shut her writing-desk, which was standing open, took up her casket, and put some other rings upon her finger. We are soon to part, said she, keeping her eyes upon the casket: accept a memorial of a true friend, who wishes nothing more earnestly than that you may always prosper. She then took out a ring, which, underneath a crystal, bore a little plait of woven hair beautifully set with diamonds. She held it out to Wilhelm, who, on taking it, knew neither what to say nor do, but stood as if rooted to the ground. The Countess shut her desk, and sat down upon the sofa.
And I must go empty? said Philina, kneeling down at the Countesss right hand. Do but look at the man; he carries such a store of words in his mouth, when no one wants to hear them; and now he cannot stammer out the poorest syllable of thanks. Quick, sir! Express your services by way of pantomime at least; and if today you can invent nothing, then, for Heavens sake, be my imitator.
Philina seized the right hand of the Countess, and kissed it warmly. Wilhelm sank upon his knee, laid hold of the left and pressed it to his lips. The Countess seemed embarrassed, yet without displeasure.
Ah! cried Philina, so much splendour of attire I may have seen before; but never one so fit to wear it. What bracelets, but also what a hand! What a necklace, but also what a bosom!
Peace, little cozener! said the Countess.
Is this his Lordship then? said Philina, pointing to a rich medallion, which the Countess wore on her left side, by a particular chain.
He is painted in his bridegroom dress, replied the Countess.
Was he then so young? inquired Philina; I know it is but a year or two since you were married.
His youth must be placed to the artists account, replied the lady.
He is a handsome man, observed Philina. But was there never, she continued, placing her hand on the Countesss heart, never any other image that found its way in secret hither?
Thou art very bold, Philina! cried she; I have spoiled thee. Let me never hear the like again.
If you are angry, then am I unhappy, said Philina, springing up, and hastening from the room.
Wilhelm still held that lovely hand in both of his. His eyes were fixed on the bracelet-clasp; he noticed, with extreme surprise, that his initials were traced on it, in lines of brilliants.
Have I then, he modestly inquired, your own hair in this precious ring?
Yes, replied she, in a faint voice; then suddenly collecting herself, she said, and pressed his hand: Arise, and fare you well!
Here is my name, cried he, by the most curious chance! He pointed to the bracelet-clasp.
How? cried the Countess: it is the cipher of a female friend!
They are the initials of my name. Forget me not. Your image is engraven on my heart, and will never be effaced Farewell! I must be gone.
He kissed her hand, and meant to rise; but, as in dreams, some strange thing fades and changes into something stranger, and the succeeding wonder takes us by surprise; so, without knowing how it happened, he found the Countess in his arms; her lips were resting upon his, and their warm mutual kisses were yielding them that blessedness, which mortals sip from the topmost sparkling foam on the freshly-poured cup of love.
Her head lay on his shoulder; the disordered ringlets and ruffles were forgotten. She had thrown her arm round him; he clasped her with vivacity; and pressed her again and again to his breast. O that such a moment could but last forever! And woe to envious fate that shortened even this brief moment to our friends!
How terrified was Wilhelm, how astounded did he start from his happy dream, when the Countess, with a shriek, on a sudden tore herself away, and hastily pressed her hand against her heart.
He stood confounded before her; she held the other hand upon her eyes, and, after a moments pause, exclaimed: Away! leave me! delay not!
He continued standing.
Leave me! she cried; and taking off her hand from her eyes, she looked at him with an indescribable expression of countenance; and added, in the most tender and affecting voice: Fly, if you love me.
Wilhelm was out of the chamber, and again in his room, before he knew what he was doing.
Unhappy creatures! What singular warning of chance or of destiny tore them asunder?
· [
Top 150
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World Lit


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You no longer have to choose between something looking great and being comfortable to wear. Kmart offers an amazing range of big and tall clothing that includes pieces for all kinds of occasions. From formal office wear to casual clothes for your days off, find your style and create a closet that best expresses who you really are.
When you're shopping for big and tall men's clothing, make sure to consider your body structure and physique. You have to find the right patterns that look fashionable and relaxed. Find dress pants to wear to work and choose neutral colors that will match a wide selection of collar shirts. You can take your pick from top brands like Wrangler and Basic Editions in plus size options. Complete your ensemble with a smart pair of formal men's dress shoes and you will be ready to tackle the day ahead.
Discover stylish big men's clothing that includes sophisticated dress shirts as well as casual t-shirts depending on where you're going. That's not all; get yourself some snuggly sleepwear as well as socks and underwear to ensure your wardrobe is equipped from top to bottom.


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Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A wants to expand its breakfast business with giveaways through Saturday. As part of its "Breakfast on Us" promotion, customers can reserve one of 10 breakfast entrees and a time to pick it up at a Chick-fil-A by going to www.Chick-fil-AForBreakfast.com.
Entrees include chicken biscuit; spicy chicken biscuit; sausage biscuit; Chick-n-Minis; chicken, egg and cheese bagel; bacon, egg and cheese biscuit; chicken breakfast burrito; sausage breakfast burrito; oatmeal; or yogurt parfait. Reservations can be made through Friday or until they are filled.
Downtown Charleston's first artisanal craft distillery will officially open its doors Thursday by offering some limited access tours and tastings. During the tours, the High Wire Distilling team will offer an overview of the distilling process and allow guests an opportunity to see the still, mash tun, fermentation tanks, barrel aging and bottling operations in action.
Offered Thursday-Saturday on the hour 1-5 p.m., tours are limited to 25 people, and reservations are recommended by calling 843-755-4664.
Tours with tastings cost $8. Those without tastings cost $5. Children 12 and under are admitted free. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. No one under 21 is allowed a tasting.
Mom Spa at 920 Houston Northcutt Blvd., Suite A-4, in Mount Pleasant will have a fundraiser for Animal Rescue and Relief on Oct. 5.
The 10 a.m.-2 p.m. event will offer libations, light bites, a raffle and chair massages. It also will solicit cash donations to help pay for veterinarian bills for the nonprofit organization.
Folly Beach will feature a weekly market starting Friday.
Open 4 p.m. until dark, the market in River Park will offer fresh produce, fresh flowers, baked goods and other prepared foods, hand-crafted bath, body and home products and various offerings from local artisans.
The market is the product of April McCarty of Old Whaling Co. and Toni Reale of Roadside Blooms in collaboration with 20 farmers, bakers and artisans. All products will be grown, produced or crafted in the Lowcountry.
The market is free to attend, and attractions will be offered each week. Leashed dogs are welcome. Vendor fees not used to run and promote the market will be returned to the community through a Folly Beach nonprofit organization.
Go to https://www.facebook.com/FollyBeachFarmMarket.
Reach Warren L. Wise at 937-5524 or twitter.com/warrenlancewise.


text:
BTC Faculty Strike for Fairness
By Edward Graham
November 4, 2013
For the faculty members of Bellingham Technical College (BTC) in Bellingham, Wash., the decision to go on a weeklong strike at the end of September didn't come lightly. In fact, it was a matter of earning the respect that the faculty knew they deserved.
Bellingham Technical College (BTC) is in the far northwest corner of the state, about 90 minutes north of Seattle and less than an hour from the Canadian border. It's an idyllic setting for the technical college, located only a few short blocks from Bellingham Bay and British Columbia's Vancouver Island a few miles more to the west.
But after almost a year of negotiations between the administration and the faculty, it also became the setting of the first strike at a public college in Washington State since 1988.
Over the past six years, salaries for the BTC faculty remained stagnant while the school's administrators voted to give themselves substantial raises. And for a whole calendar year, the faculty negotiated hard with the administration about how additional administrative workloads would be divvied up in the faculty's contract.
But those were just two of the three main issues the BTC teachers wanted to address in their contract—and they weren't backing down without a fight.
"The main issues were compensation, workload—there were no well-defined procedures or definitions for additional tasks that administrators are normally charged with doing—and the issue of covert surveillance," says Tony Kuphaldt, a 15-year teacher of courses in the college's instrumentation and control technology program and one of the spokespeople for the striking BTC faculty.
Covert surveillance? The issue first arose from a benign event that occurred on campus, said Kuphaldt. A "secret shopper," someone paid by an outside company or organization to report on their experiences, visited the college posing as a perspective student to see what the intake procedures were like. That specific incident was a non-issue with faculty and administration, but the situation did bring up questions about the administration's ability to spy on its own faculty. When the faculty tried to include language addressing the issue in their contract negotiations—language, it should be pointed out, that most K-12 educators have stipulated in their teaching contracts—the administration balked.
"We proposed some language that said covert surveillance must be done in coordination with law enforcement," Kuphaldt says. "If it's serious enough to spy on an employee, then we felt it was serious enough for them to call in the cops. The administration came back saying they reserve the right to monitor any employee suspected of misconduct, and that they reserve the right to do it at any time. We felt that was a real compromise on due process."
Even before the strike began, it became increasingly clear that the BTC faculty's demands stemmed from legitimate grievances. The Washington State House of Representatives sent a letter to Bellingham Technical College's administrators imploring them to negotiate compensation increases for the faculty. The Legislature had earmarked $240,000 to BTC for the express purpose of using it for salary increases, but the college instead chose to use the money for other purposes.
"The significant increase in funding was widely understood to provide for local bargaining for compensation and workload, including addressing class size, after years of cuts and no COLAs," wrote the chair and vice chairs of the state Higher Education Committee, and the chair of the state Labor & Workforce Development Committee.
So when push finally came to shove, the BTC faculty members of the Bellingham Education Association decided they had no choice but to go on strike. Several days later, a second union at the college—the Bellingham Education Support Team (BEST), a union comprised of BTC's clerical, technical, instructional, and retail support staff and also an affiliate of the Washington Education Association (WEA)—voted to support their striking colleagues. While BEST members were not officially on strike, most honored the faculty picket lines and did not work during the strike.
For six days, from September 24th until the 29th, BTC faculty and BEST members effectively closed down the college in a last resort effort to ensure their contracts addressed the most pressing issues. Armed with signs and warm clothing, the striking faculty and their fellow support staff picketed the college through sunny weather and overcast, damp days. Some of them even wore yellow pins with a string of six zeros to signify the six years it had been since any raises or cost of living adjustments.
Their commitment paid off. Union and administrative negotiators were able to reach a 3-year contract that effectively dealt with many of the faculty's pressing issues. The BTC faculty's new contract included a 2.5 percent pay increase and higher stipends that included cost of living adjustments, pay raises for adjunct faculty, longevity bonuses, and improvements to contractual language regarding workload. Since neither side was able to come to an agreement on the issue of surveillance, there was no change to the contract's language regarding its use—a veritable draw for both sides.
While union leaders say that the new contract is the first step in a greatly improved faculty-administration relationship, they are also quick to point out that none of this would have been possible without the dedication of the BTC faculty.
"Throughout the bargaining process—including the strike—leaders, members, and staff worked seamlessly to ensure that our focus at the bargaining table was consistent with those identified member interests," says Greg Alarid, a NEA UniServ Representative with the WEA Fourth Corner, which represents almost 5,000 higher education faculty and staff across Washington State. "We're at our best when members, leaders, and staff work together in a way that builds involvement and ownership—exactly the way we went about our task."
BEST members also negotiated a 4-year contract that included a supplemental cost of living stipend, longevity bonuses, and increases to salary schedule steps. But, because the BEST members who participated in the strike were not compensated for their four days off once the new contracts were negotiated, they had to use leave or make up work days in order to account for the time off. As a result, the WEA started a fund to help offset the BEST members lost time and make them financially whole.
"We decided to make a fund in the WEA that we as a faculty could voluntarily pay into to help the BEST members because they were voluntarily on the line with us, they went above and beyond, and we want to respect that," says Kuphaldt.
While no educator wants to go on strike, the BTC faculty and staff were able to get much-needed changes to their contracts that enable them to become even more effective teachers. And, the strike served as a clear and effective indication that educators will stand up for the rights and respect they know they deserve.
"This strike sent a message to administrators in all community and technical college systems to negotiate in good faith," said Shirley Potter, president of the Bellingham Education Association. "The preservation of this faculty and BEST and their willingness to say enough is enough-–we deserve a better deal—will certainly help faculties and support staff at other colleges to expect and demand more when negotiating their contracts. I`m so proud of the commitment of our group for upholding the basic intent of collective bargaining!!"