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Dark Night of the Soul is an album written by Danger Mouse and Sparklehorse. It features a wide range of singers, which include James Mercer of the Shins, Wayne Coyne of the Flaming Lips, Gruff Rhys of Super Furry Animals, Jason Lytle of Grandaddy, Julian Casablancas of the Strokes, Black Francis of the Pixies, Iggy Pop, Nina Persson of the Cardigans, Suzanne Vega, Vic Chesnutt, David Lynch, and Scott Spillane of Neutral Milk Hotel and the Gerbils; these singers also had a hand in composing and producing the work.
This was the final album Linkous completed before his suicide on March 6, 2010, although In the Fishtank 15, recorded in 2007, was released later, and Linkous was working on another LP at the time of his death. It was also one of the final works recorded by Vic Chesnutt before his suicide.
There are multiple music packages of Dark Night of the Soul:
Dark Night of the Soul deluxe boxed set (Only 5,000 copies)
1 Double-Vinyl Gatefold LP (complete album)
2 CDs - (complete album and complete instrumental)
3 Lobby Cards
1 Poster
1 Photo Print
1 12" booklet with David Lynch photography
Dark Night of the Soul Standard LP
1 Standard LP (13 tracks)
Dark Night of the Soul heavyweight double vinyl gatefold LP
1 Standard LP (Complete Album - 13 tracks)
This set comes with the complete mp3 downloads of the album.
Dark Night of the Soul CD
13 tracks
Dark Night of the Soul MP3 download
13 tracks
Dark Night of the Soul Deluxe MP3 download
14 tracks
Bonus track – "Dark Night of the Soul" (featuring David Lynch) [Sparklehorse Mix]
Dark Night of the Soul exclusive version MP3 download
15 tracks
Bonus tracks – Instrumental versions of "Revenge" and "Every Time I'm with You"
Source: Wikipedia


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Football banquet at HRV on Dec. 4
Reserve your spot today for the 2002 HRV football banquet, to be held Wednesday, Dec. 4, from 6-8 p.m. in the HRV cafeteria. A prime rib dinner will be served for $8 per person, and there is a limit of 300 people. Call 386-2318 by Monday, Dec. 2, to reserve your place for this historic awards night.
Alumni basketball tourney Saturday
The annual alumni basketball tournament at Hood River Valley High School will take place this Saturday, beginning with registration at 8:30 a.m. and games beginning at 9:30 a.m. For $15, all former high-school students and interested community members can play in an all-day "pick-up" tournament to benefit the HRV softball program. For more information, call Phil Hukari at 386-1516.
HRV wrestling program seeks help
Coach Mark Brown is looking for another dedicated assistant to join his staff this season. The program is currently operating with just two assistants, Jeff MacKay and Jess Flem, and would like to bring in some additional knowledge and experience. For more, call Brown at 386-4500.
Community Education youth b-ball
Hood River Community Education is still taking registrations for youth basketball. Boys and girls in grades 3-6 are eligible and games will begin the first Saturday in January. Cost is $35 per player. Registration deadline is Dec. 3. For more information, call Community Ed at 386-2055.
Julee's Gorge Tours at Trillium Lake
Julee's Gorge Tours is organizing a Trillium Lake snowshoeing/cross-country skiing trip for Saturday, Dec. 7, beginning at 10:30 a.m. Cost is $45 per person, which includes brand-new Atlas and Rossignol gear, sack lunches, Clif Bars, and experienced guides. The group will meet at the Trillium Lake Snopark, and carpools can be arranged. Payment is required by Dec. 5. The trip is excellent for beginners, but also a great workout for experienced trekkers. For more, visit www.gorgetours.com.
Oregon Amateur Basketball tourneys
Oregon Amateur Basketball will be holding nine tournaments throughout the 2002-03 season in Portland, Salem, Bend, Eugene and Florence. Tournaments cost $185 and are open to boys and girls teams in grades 5-8. Each tournament also has a four-game guarantee. For more information or to receive a tournament packet, call Nick Larsen at 541-517-4160. You can also email email@example.com.
Central Oregon Shootout tourneys
Sisters Organization for Activities and Recreation (SOAR) is now taking registrations for the annual Central Oregon Shootout series. SOAR is in its ninth year of hosting youth tournaments, and caters mostly to boys and girls teams in fifth through eighth grades. The first tournament this season, the Kickoff Classic, will take place on Dec. 7, and will be followed by the Central Oregon Co-op on Dec. 14-15, and the Pepsi-Cola Shootout on Dec. 21. Two more tournaments will take place in January, another two in February, and one in March. For more info on how to sign up your team, visit www.sistersrecreation.com.
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subset: commoncrawl


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Reviewed By Eric A (Jacksonville, FL) Reviewed for a 2007 Subaru Forester —2/6/2016 8:15 PM
I have a well cared for high mileage Subaru that's paid for and was feeling the need to do something special to ward off the itch to buy another car. I looked at many dash kits and wanted something of quality and ease to install. I love the kit I purchased. Installation was easy and looks factory. The cost a bit higher than others but feel that it's worth it. I will definitely recommend to everyone and will think about for any vehicles I buy. Thank you!


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Many of us voted for President Obama as we believed he had the character, intelligence and the will to lead the country and to provide meaningful change. We voted for the man, but we also voted for the platform. A primary part of the platform was the passage of the Affordable Care Act, which will benefit all citizens. The Supreme Court has now ruled in favor of President Obama and all of the country.
I have always been puzzled by the fierce opposition to this legislation. Why do some Americans begrudge other citizens access to the health care they need? We are certainly not the leaders in this area. Most wealthy, industrialized nations provide these benefits.
Social Security and Medicare were really not the first entitlement programs that we as citizens have established. I believe that free public school education may be the first entitlement program that the citizens of our country agreed was needed. At an early time in the history of our country, children were seen as part of the labor force both on the farm and in our cities. As people became more enlightened, it was decided to offer children the benefit of an education. Many families over several generations have greatly benefited from this free education. The education received and the skills learned have benefited them and the entire society. Middle-class families have benefited, as they are left with more disposable income saved by having their children educated at taxpayer expense.
Some of us believe that access to health care is an even more basic right of citizenship, as all citizens directly benefit. Public school education, Social Security and Medicare and the provision of health care are all big-ticket items, but we as citizens have supported these programs as we believe that they are in the "common good." This is the democratic way we have tried to operate since the birth of the nation, and we are still evolving with good ideas for the "common good."
We must realize that one of the many benefits of President Obama's proposals is that the cost of health care should go down. We know that there is gross inefficiency, corruption and duplication of effort in the health care delivery system. Why should we pay substantially more for prescription drugs than the citizens of other countries?
I hope that we will get behind this effort to move forward into the 21st century, where we can take pride that we are a nation guided by democratic ideals and the will to provide our fellow citizens with all the benefits of a thriving democracy of the people.
Edward McCarey McDonnell, Baltimore


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The Big Reveal! James' Treehouse Bedroom
Location: Atlanta, Georgia
Style: Cool, calm bedroom
We've come a long way together, and finally we've arrived at the smallest room and the only bedroom in this summer's bunch.
James' room has a very straightforward use of color (reverse accent wall people!), and the Valspar Paint color we went with was, to my mind, a great choice for a calm, but romantic bedroom. James and his wife have a very young son, Elliot, and they've got their hands full, so they wanted a modern, clean space that they could relax in.
This simple palette was meant to clean up the bedroom and bathe it in a soothing color. Using a Dove White for the trim (which has a touch of color in it), the Evening Lilac was inspired by one of James' favorite dress shirts. Though this is a small room, I decided to pull the color around all the two existing walls, which does pull the walls in, but it reads as "cozy" in this bedroom. I love shades of lilac in a bedroom. You sleep really well.
Evening Lilac 1002-5B (main accent wall)
• Dove White 7002-7 (trim)
James' bedroom before
James' bedroom after
"The most challenging part about the redo process was trying to get rid of a ton of stuff that we do not actually need. We had too much clutter that had to go in order for us to realize the space we had. As I speak, we have gotten rid of almost 20% of what we originally had in our room and we continue to find stuff we don't really need."
"Maxwell, thank you for the time and changing the way I look at my living space as well as my resting space. Joe, (and your team ) thank you for bringing the concepts to life! All of you are amazing! Thank you!"
You're welcome, James, and I'm so glad you like it!
- All paint courtesy of Valspar Paint
- Painted wall panel behind bed — Valspar Gossamer Curtain 1002-6C
- Wall art behind bed — West Elm, spray painted with Valspar Black Plum 65087
- Metal wall art — West Elm
- Stone sculpture on books — West Elm
- Rice bowls — James
- Flatscreen TV — Target
- Tall and large vase — IKEA
- Sheepskin — IKEA
- Guitar — James
- Rattan stool and Danish credenza — Kudzu Antique Mall
- Night stands and lamp and vase on nightstand — Kudzu Antique Mall
- Sisal rug — IKEA
- Platform bed and headboard — West Elm
- Bedding — IKEA
- Globe lamp and water decanter and glass — IKEA
- Curtain panels over windows and closet — IKEA
- African sculpture and woven basket and bird carving — James
We've teamed up with Valspar Paint to create The Inside Man, a special feature dedicated to daily (Monday — Friday) posts from Apartment Therapy and GQ about men's color conundrums and style questions. From sofas with cup holders to brilliant bachelor pads, we're focusing on the décor dilemmas men often bring to us.
• James' Treehouse Bedroom: Phase 3 - The Progress Report
• James' Treehouse Bedroom: Phase 2 - The Prescription
• James' Treehouse Bedroom: Phase 1 - Local Inspiration
• Read more about guy style at theinsideman.apartmenttherapy.com.
• Check out GQ's guide to guy style at gq.com/theinsideman.
Photos: Jim Franco


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When the Nexus 7 2013 was launched, Google decided to go with a Qualcomm processor instead of sticking with NVIDIA's Tegra platform. Whether it was a mistake or not is a discussion for another day, but NVIDIA had to do something to promote its Tegra 4 processor for various devices. Part of that effort manifested itself as the NVIDIA SHIELD, but where to go next?
It looks like NVIDIA is trying its hand at making a tablet, to be simply called the Tegra Tab. It definitely has an interesting aesthetic to it, it is a rugged tablet, but the interesting thing about it is the NVIDIA technology that went into it.
Since this is an NVIDIA in-house product, they're using a 1.8GHz Tegra 4 processor (of course). This is paired with 2GB of RAM, a 7-inch 128 0 x768 display, what looks like front-facing speakers and dual cameras. However, it also comes with a stylus. This is a demonstration of DirectStylus, their stylus technology that NVIDIA has been demonstrating for a while now.
Is the company trying to show what can be done with NVIDIA technology or trying to sell a product for profit? Considering the inclusion of the stylus, I can't help but feel that it's the latter. With a not-so-high-end display and a design that doesn't seem very refined, this could be NVIDIA's way of trying to convince manufacturers to use the Tegra 4. We'll find out eventually. Would you buy this tablet?


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Learn About the Affordable Care Act
Contact: Dan Beringhele
Reference Librarian
Berkeley Public Library
Berkeley, November 12, 2013 – The Berkeley Public Library will host a presentation on the Affordable Care Act and question and answer session with counselors from Lifelong Medical Care on Tuesday November 12, 2013 at 10:00 am in the 3rd Floor Community Meeting Room of the Central Library, 2090 Kittredge Street. Attendees will have the opportunity to book a session with a Lifelong Enrollment Counselor and select an insurance plan.
For more information call (510) 981-6148. You can also sign up for affordable health insurance online at www.coveredca.com.
The Central Library is open Monday, noon-8 p.m., Tuesday, 10 a.m.- 8 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., and Sunday afternoons from 1 p.m. till 5 p.m. Wheelchair accessible. For questions, please call 510-981-6195 (voice) or 510-548-1240 (TTY) or visit the library's website: www.berkeleypubliclibrary.org. Please refrain from wearing scented products to public programs.
To request a sign language interpreter or other accommodations for this event, please call (510) 981-6195 (voice) or (510) 548-1240 (TTY); at least three working days will help ensure availability.


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New kind of Challah?
At Challah Connection, we recently got a call for what may be the next "big thing" in challah! A grandma from Texas was looking for challah covered in icing and decorated with all sorts of candy. Our first reaction was well, a bit surprised, but on second thought, why not? I always love a good challenge and besides, who says that traditional challah is the only way to go? Would love to hear some of your challah stories or "nouveau" recipes.


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Microphone Basics
Microphones are used to record sound or to connect a sound source to an amplification device. A singer could, for example, make his or her voice louder by singing into a microphone that is connected to an amplifier and speaker. Recording sound can be achieved by connecting microphones to a recording device such as a Digital Audio Workstation [DAW].
Microphones work by picking up the vibrations made by sounds which they then convert to an electrical signal. This signal can be sent to an amplifier or recording device. Microphones are often connected to Mixing Desks that offer a number of different channels with sound level, amplification, pan, EQ and effects controls. These controls can be applied to the sound signal and are useful both in recording and for 'live' sound engineering.
Microphones contain a diaphragm [a thin, flexible surface] that moves backwards and forwards when struck by the vibrations made by sound [sound waves]. The movements of the diaphragm are converted to an electrical signal that is analogous to the original sound source [an analogue sound signal].
There two main types of microphones: dynamic microphones and condenser microphones.
Dynamic microphones use a diaphragm attached to a coil of wire and suspended in a magnetic field. When the diaphragm moves in response to sound vibrations the magnetic field is affected. The affect on the magnetic field generates the analogous sound signal. Dynamic mics. do not need a power source to operate.
Condenser microphones use a power source [batteries or phantom power supplied by a mixing desk or mic. input device] to charge a capacitor diaphragm. This is a design that uses two electrified surfaces spaced slightly apart. As the flexible diaphragm is struck by sound vibrations it moves closer to and further away from the second fixed surface. The varying distance between the two surfaces [the capacitance] generates a signal which is also analogous to the original sound source.
Another kind of microphone technology is the PZM or boundary microphone. PZM stands for pressure zone microphone which refers to the position of the condenser mic. 'capsule' just above a boundary plate [see the design illustration below]. The idea behind the PZM mic. is to eliminate the sound reflections picked up by normal microphones: when a 'normal' microphone is mounted on a stand it picks up the sound waves from the sound source but also picks up any sound 'bounced' off surfaces in the recording room. The PZM mic. is placed close to the floor [or on a flat surface] so that the sound waves from the sound source reach the mic. at closer to the same time as the reflections. This results in improved recording results [because the vibrations from the sound source are in phase with the reflected sound vibrations].
Another kind of microphone technology is the PZM or boundary microphone. PZM stands for pressure zone microphone which refers to the position of the condenser mic. 'capsule' just above a boundary plate [see the design illustration below]. The idea behind the PZM mic. is to eliminate the sound reflections picked up by normal microphones: when a 'normal' microphone is mounted on a stand it picks up the sound waves from the sound source but also picks up any sound 'bounced' off surfaces in the recording room. The PZM mic. is placed close to the floor [or on a flat surface] so that the sound waves from the sound source reach the mic. at closer to the same time as the reflections. This results in improved recording results [because the vibrations from the sound source are in phase with the reflected sound vibrations].
Pick Up Pattern
Pick Up Pattern
As well as being of different types, microphones can have different characteristics. The main characteristics are the pick-up pattern and frequency response. Pick-up pattern refers to the direction [or directions] from which the mic will be most sensitive to sound vibrations. The different mic pick-up patterns are shown below:
An Omni-directional microphone is sensitive to sound vibrations from all around it.
The Cardioid mic picks up sound vibrations from the front.
The Hypercardioid mic picks up sound vibrations from the front and close rear.
The Bi-directional [or figure of eight] mic picks up sound vibrations from the front and rear but not sides.
The 'Shotgun' mic picks up from mostly from the front but also from the rear and has some sensitivity to sound
Frequency Response and Sensitivity
The frequency response of a microphone describes the sensitivity of the microphone to certain frequencies of sound. Ideally, a microphone would be equally sensitive to the whole range of sound frequencies [this would be a 'flat' frequency response]. However, microphones have a varied sensitivity to sound frequencies and as such offer a varied frequency response. In better quality microphones this is reduced to improve the quality of the recording.
As well as being more or less sensitive to certain frequencies, microphones vary in their overall sensitivity to sound vibrations. A condenser microphone, for example, would normally be much more sensitive to sound vibrations than a dynamic microphone. This would mean that the signal from a condenser mic. would be louder and need less amplification from the mixer of mic. input device.
Connecting the Microphone
Microphones usually connect to a mixer, input device [such as a microphone pre-amp or 'channel strip'] or amplification device. The cable used is usually an XLR type microphone cable which is balanced to reduce cable 'noise'. This means that the cable has two cable 'cores' with the advantage of being able to carry a ground signal both to and from the input device which reduces the potential for noise interference. Unbalanced cables, like those used on home hi-fi systems for example, can produce unwanted noise because the ground signal has be connected at both ends of the cable. The 'hum' heard from poorly earthed record turntables is a good example of this 'ground loop' phenomenon.
Mixing Desk
A mixing desk is commonly used as an input device for microphones in both recording and 'live' sound control or amplification situations. The mixing desk will have channels with signal amplifiers, effects applicators, EQ, pan [locating left or right stereo placement] into which the microphone cable can be connected. The signals from numerous microphone inputs can then be manipulated, 'mixed' and routed to an output. The output could be further effects processors, a recording device [such as a computer DAW] or amplification.
Routing Boxes/Channel Strips
Microphones can also be connected to other input devices that offer signal amplifiers, effects, pan and/or EQ. An example of this is the channel strip. This device is similar to the channel of a mixer and can be used as an alternative way of signal processing. Channel strips often offer specialised signal processing to give specific effects on the sound source. A channel strip designed for recording and processing vocal microphone signals is an example of this kind of device. Other signal processing and routing devices include the following examples: Amplifier emulators and Pre-amps, which are used to amplify signals and 'copy' types of amplifiers [such as a vintage valve amplifier]; and signal splitters or mergers that can route signals to multiple outputs or merge multiple inputs into a single output. Also effects processors and digital audio converters [converting the analogue signal to digital audio] are examples or signal processors.
Phantom Power
To use a condenser microphone the device to which the microphone is connected will send a charge through the mic cable. This charge is a very small static energy charge that powers the condenser microphone. It is called the phantom power charge. You will find a phantom power switch on mixing desks, channel strips, routing devices, pre-amps and audio capture devices because the charge is needed to operate condenser microphones.
Sound Quality
Sound quality from a microphone signal, whether recorded or amplified, can be affected in many ways:
Background sounds and 'spillage'
Microphones can pick up unwanted sounds such as 'background' sound from an audience if recording a live performance. Sometimes even studio recordings can include unwanted sound. This is often known as 'spillage', which is sound from sources other than the one you want to record. For example, backing music.
Noise is any unwanted sound interference. This could be, for example, a 'hum' generated by poor grounding or electrical faults. Using balanced cables and not over amplifying signals are ways of overcoming excessive noise interference.
Distortion might occur if the signal is set too high or over amplified. Distortion literally means that the signal begins to distort and sound unclear. Keeping signal levels and amplification down are ways to avoid distortion. Pad switches are features often included on microphones or microphone input devices to reduce microphone sensitivity or sound levels when used with sound sources that are very loud or amplified. The pad switch reduces the signal level and can help to avoid distortion.
Low end rumble
Microphones are often very sensitive to low frequencies. This can sometimes result in unwanted low end noise on the recorded or amplified signal. Some microphones and microphone input devices offer roll-off filters to eliminate these unwanted low frequency sounds.
Popping can occur when using a microphone to record or amplify vocals. The performer can cause sudden blasts of air when pronouncing certain sounds [particularly the 'P' sound]. This is usually overcome by using a pop shield which is a thin fabric stretched across a frame that obstructs the blast of air.
Proximity effect
The proximity effect occurs when a cardioid microphone is placed close to a sound source. The low frequency sound from that sound source is boosted more and more the closer the microphone gets. Sometimes this can be used to the advantage of the recording or amplification because it gives more bass to the signal. At other times it is unwanted and must be controlled by either moving the microphone away from the sound source or by using a filter, EQ or effects processor.
Damping is used to reduce the vibrations of the sound being recorded or amplified. It can be easily imagined by thinking of a guitar string which when plucked vibrates to create a sound. If you were then to touch that string gently the vibrations would be restricted and the sound would reduce. This is how damping works: by reducing sound vibrations. Damping can be used by sound engineers in many ways from acoustic treatment for the recording environment [such as textured wall tiles and sound 'traps'], microphone placement or the use of damping devices.
The following are examples of how to set up microphones to record different sound sources. A selection of four microphones will be used in the examples. The characteristics of each mic. will also be given.
The Shure SM58
This is a dynamic microphone that offers a frequency response suitable for vocals with bass roll off and high sensitivity to the midrange. It has a solid design that helps reduce and unwanted noise from being held and includes a built in pop shield. Ideally used for performance recording and amplification settings but also good for general use. A cardioid pickup pattern isolates the main sound source while minimizing unwanted background noise.
Shure SM58
The Shure SM58 is probably the best-known dynamic microphone in the entire world, the "ball" 58 is popular as a vocal mic because (a) it's virtually indestructible (b) if you get real close to it, it accentuates bass frequencies and thus is great for vocalists with weak delivery.
The Shure SM57
This is also a dynamic cardioid microphone used both for instruments and for vocals. It is suitable for guitar, bass, drums, woodwind, brass and strings. The unidirectional pick-up pattern and solid design means reduced background noise.
Shure SM57
Instrument Mic - Guitar/Bass Amps, Brass, Saxophone, Harmonica, Snare/Tom, Congas.
The AKG1000s
This is a condenser microphone and is as such much more sensitive than the dynamic mics listed above. It can be used with a cardioid or hypercardioid pick up pattern. Suitable for recording both vocals and instruments. It can be used further away from the sound source because it is highly sensitive. This means that the 1000s would be ideal for ambient microphone techniques [when the performance space is recorded rather than specific sound sources within that space]. Care should be taken with this microphone because it is much more sensitive to background noise.
The AKG C1000S is a large diaphragm condenser microphone - vocal / instrument microphone. Now includes a SA 63 Stand adapter, W 1000 Windscreen and a Hard shell road case.
The Rode NT1-A
A large diaphragm condenser microphone with cardioid pick up. Very sensitive and gives a clear recording. Ideally suited to recording vocals but can be used for other sound sources as well. The frequency response of the Rode NT1-A is extremely good because it is mostly 'flat' [this means that the microphone is sensitive to the sound frequency range quite evenly]. As with all condenser microphones the NT1-A is very sensitive and must be used with care to avoid unwanted background noise.
Rode NT1-A Condenser Including Shockmount
This redesigned version of RODE's classic NT1 offers the lowest self-noise on the market (5dBA), while providing the warmth, extended dynamic range and incredible clarity of the most expensive large-diaphragm condensers.
Microphone Set Up Examples
'Close microphone' techniques
These techniques use microphones to record specific instruments close up
The best microphone for recording vocals is a large diaphragm condenser microphone with a cardioid pick up pattern. A pop shield should be used to reduce the popping sounds that can be made by the blasts of air caused by the singers breath. The mic would be best used on a stand positioned close to the singer whose face should be about a hand's span distance from the microphone. Damping materials [such as blankets or a duvet] could be hung to 'deaden' the environment and improve the quality of the recording.
Electric Guitar
A dynamic microphone should be used [such as the Shure sm57] pointed at a 45 degree angle at the centre of the amplifier being used. Moving the mic to the edge of the speaker would give a softer sound and changing the angle of the mic will alter the tone of the recording. If micing the electric guitar from further away a more sensitive condenser microphone would be better.
Acoustic Guitar
A condenser mic should be used for an acoustic guitar because it will capture the higher frequencies of the instruments better. Angle the mic towards the strings at a distance of about 10cm and positioned somewhere about mid way between the soundhole and 12th fret. Moving the mic away from the soundhole will reduce the lowed frequencies recorded and moving it towards will add lower frequencies.
A range of microphones should be used for recording a drum kit: Various microphones for close up recording and large diaphragm condensers for overhead recording cymbals plus an overall sound from the kit as a whole.
Kick drums are usually recorded with a condenser mic placed in the drum facing the beater.
Dynamic microphones are used for the snare and toms. These would be positioned a few centimetres above the drums, angled downwards just in from the rim.
Hi Hats would be best recorded using a condenser mic above [angled down] the edge of the top cymbal. Angling the mic away from the snare drum would help reduce spillage.
Ambient Mic Techniques
The techniques are used to record a sound and the space in which that sound is made, such as recording a concert using just a pair of microphones placed a distance away from the performers.
An example of an ambient mic technique is the spaced pair. This uses two identical condenser microphones positioned a distance apart away from the sound source. The distance between the microphones will determine the stereo width of the recording and the distance from the sound source should be sufficient to record the sound sources without too much bias in either microphone. A good rule to follow is positioning the microphones where a listener might choose to sit to best hear the performance. The spaced pair gives a good stereo recording.
As a general rule you would not use condenser microphones for live amplification situations because they would likely give too much background noise. Likewise you would not normally use low sensitivity dynamic microphones for ambient microphone recording because they would lack the sensitivity required to capture sound vibrations clearly from a distance.


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[Samui hotels]
中 文
日 本
The Sunset Beach Resort and Spa
by The Unique Collection 126/9 Moo 3,Taling Ngam,
Koh Samui , Suratthani 84140
Taling Ngam Beach
Hotel category:
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Summary of 2 reviews :
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Location :
The Sunset Beach Resort is a small luxury boutique hotel nestled on the secluded beach of Ban Taling Ngam on the west coast of Samui where you can experience the most colorful sunsets over the Gulf of Thailand. Only 11 Jacuzzi Rooms are located in the main low rise building, 10 private villas are located in the garden around the pool and close to the beach. If you want to burn some calories you can work-out in the gym, rent a bike or kayak free of charge. But if you want to go into deep relaxation you have several options like the floatation pool and the huge sauna and steam world where you can stretch during a Thai massage or relax during a full spa package. The restaurant L'Ananas overlooking the outer islands offers a white rage of fresh Thai and Fusion fair.
Hotel summary
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Travel reviews for The Sunset Beach Resort and Spa
Date of stay:
Sep 21, 2011
Accommodation and facilities:
What a brilliant relaxing place to stay. We picked the garden villa and we loved it. Its a quiet peaceful place to stay and the staff were fantastic. It beach is a little rocky so not best for swimming but very pretty and made up for by a brilliant pool. This hotel is perfect for romantic breaks. I will think back on my memories there during the cold wet winters in ireland. One of the best hotel rooms i have ever had! Outdoor bathroom and private jacuzzi and gazibo bliss!!!:)
Reservation service:
Sep 24, 2011
written by:
corinna love
Date of stay:
Jan 15, 2010
Accommodation and facilities:
My wife, child and I had a perfect stay in Koh Samui thanks to the staff of Ban Sabai Sunset resort. We stayed with a 2 year old child that was constantly pampered by the hotel staff. We stayed in a Garden Villa room that provided us with an in-room jacuzzi and pool, and a minute walk access to the beach. The hotel is away from the 2 primary beaches in Samui, which we found a good thing as pretty much all our needs were served in the resort. They also were happy to reserve for us excursions in the island. I highly recommend this hotel to anyone that is looking for a vacation in Koh Samui.
Reservation service:
Jan 20, 2010
written by:
Eden Shochat
THB ฿ Thailand
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Everybody needs it from time to time. Some space to escape and enjoy what life has to offer. At
The Sunset Beach Resort, Taling Ngam
at Taling Ngam Beach on the island of Koh Samui in Thailand, life has seldom offered so much.
A luxury
boutique resort and spa located directly on the beach front and commanding spectacular views of the Koh Samui coast and nearby islands, The Sunset Beach Resort & Spa, Taling Ngam superbly appointed beachfront villas and sunset rooms sit amidst our private, tranquil spas and gardens where the only sound is the gentle rhythm of the sea.
if you feel like bringing the view a bit closer, you can always explore our panoramic and fully equipped gym (gymnasium), ride one of our mountain bikes or paddle a sea kayak. Enjoy our wide range of facilities, including healthy food at our L Ananas Restaurant, swim in our 30 meter swimming pool, warm up in our steam rooms, relax with our traditional classical Thai massage or chill out with drinks at our bar.
in the landscaped tropical gardens or walk on our beach and enjoy the stunning island sunsets, scenery and views of Koh Samui and nearby islands.
The choice is yours, we just want to give you some space to breathe.
:: Sunset Jacuzzi - 11 units ::
No matter which of our designed and carefully finished Sunset Rooms you stay in, nothing will interrupt your view of the stunning Samui Marine National park. Rooms are located in the main building and feature a Jacuzzi for two, stunning sea view, balcony, double bed or twin bed (size 35 sq.m.)
:: Garden Jacuzzi Villa - 6 units ::
In one of our fabulous Garden Jacuzzi Villas your Jacuzzi is just beside the shower in your open air bathroom. Each villa is fully equipped and features a refreshing plunge pool and a private Sala in which to just relax or be pampered with a luxurious spa program. Private space approximately 135 sq.m. at your disposal.
:: Beach Front Pool Villa - 4 units ::
For the ultimate in luxury our four double room Beach Front Pool Villas offer in excess of 250 sq.m. of private space and are situated directly on the beach. Like all our rooms and villas they are, of course, sumptuously equipped including a mini bar and surround sound DVD player.
But with the sunset coast of Samui outside you may not feel the need to watch much TV. Beach Front Villas can be set up as 2 bedrooms or 1 bedroom and 1 living room. Your refreshing private pool and Sala overlook the beach.
:: In Room Facilities ::
Satellite TV with multi-language channels
IDD phone
DVD player and personal music system
King-size or twin bedded
In-room safety deposit box
Coffee and tea making facilities
Refrigerator and mini-bar
Bathtub and shower
Working area
Complimentary daily fruits
Thailand and Ko Samui in particular, has a spectacular range of fresh indigenous produce and at Restaurant L Ananas we make the most of it. Stop at the Lilavadee Bar for a drink and a bite to eat. For something a little more substantial, drop into L Ananas for a meal or why not let us arrange a private dinner for two on the beach.
L Ananas Restaurant
From a table overlooking the resort out towards the Gulf of Thailand commanding spectacular views of the nearby islands and stunning sunsets, you can experience modern Thai cuisine, a range of international and spa dishes that although delicious, are also carefully prepared to make them healthy too. While you eat well, you can choose from eight different mineral waters, countless teas, juices freshly squeezed from Ko Samui abundant fruits, smoothies and over 50 different wines from the old and new world.
Lilavadee Pool Terrace
For light dishes during the afternoon around the pool or a quick drink before dinner, Lilavadee Bar has a wide range of beverages.
Holidays are for relaxing, but at The Sunset Beach Resort & Spa, Taling Ngam the effect goes a little deeper. Enjoy day spas in your private villa sala or our two double treatment rooms or two Spa double Suites with their own private open air bath room and tropical paradise garden. Enjoy our Sauna World with 4 different climate zones : Hot & Wet - Ice Cave - Hot & Dry - Warm, Aroma & Sound and an Ice Pool to chill you down (complimentary for spa resort guests). Three private Salas means there is plenty of space to enjoy your choice of treatments.
And when we say choice, we mean it! From relaxation massage, classic Thai massage, body scrubs, facials, detox and aromatherapy to body and face masques, anti-aging treatments and healthy food options, all will improve your feeling of well being.
Treatments :
Single a la carte spa treatments to select from.
Spas :
Packages Spas treatment combinations lasting from 2 hours up to 6 hours.
Rejuvenation Packages :
Special designed spas packages with accommodation and treatments.
If you are feeling active, our panoramic gym (gymnasium) offers a full range of equipment and such a stunning snapshot view of the Koh Samui coast, that exercising there is far from arduous. To help you cool down, our 30m swimming pool is salt chlorinated and surrounded by Jacuzzis and fountains to further soothe the senses.
Swimming pool
Pool with salt-chlorinated system, Jacuzzi and fountain areas.
Salt Flotation pool
A deep meditative treatment of floating in a strong salt solution which assists natural mineral exchanges with your body. (complimentary for resort guests).
Sauna world
Enjoy 4 different climate rooms, hot wet, Ice cave, hot dry and warm aroma and sound and an ice pool to chill you down. (complimentary for spa resort guests)
Books, CD, DVD, and internet stations for guest use at our spa and resort.
Gym - Fitness
Our panoramic gym (gymnasium) overlooks the resort and has spectacular sea views! (complimentary for resort spa guests).
The Sunset Beach Resort & Spa, Taling Ngam has its own desalination (reverse osmosis) system to generate drinking water throughout the entire resort.
Sea Kayak
Enjoy the sea and paddle a sea kayak and explore the beauty of snorkeling. (complimentary for resort spa guests).
Mountain Bikes
Pedal one of our mountain bikes around the quiet neighborhood of Ban Taling Ngam. (complimentary for spa resort guests).
Beauty Salon
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[Samui hotels]
[The Sunset Beach Resort and Spa ]
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Ex-Utah Gov. Huntsman hosting weekly radio show
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Former Republican Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman, a 2012 presidential candidate, will host a new weekly radio talk show on SiriusXM satellite radio aimed at promoting bipartisan politics.
Huntsman helped launch a similar program in May, but that show was monthly and Huntsman only served as an occasional host.
SiriusXM says in a statement the company felt the monthly show was a success and decided to expand it to a weekly program with Huntsman.
The new venture, an hour-long program called "No Labels Radio With Jon Huntsman," will air on Saturdays, starting Oct. 26.
Huntsman is a co-chair of a group of 87 members of Congress called No Labels, which calls for an end to dysfunctional politics and more problem-solving in Washington, D.C.


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Get the best deal on Hancock Seed products by signing up for email updates!
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Product 41/93
Durana White Clover Seed - Durana is highly persistent under grazing and is best used to enrich existing, unimproved cool or warm season grass pasture, especially if ridding a pasture of toxic fescue is not an option. Excellent for grazing fall through early summer. Durana increases the attractiveness and nutritional value of wildlife food plots, alone or in a mixture.
Inoculant: Pre Inoculated
Type: Cool season perennial legume
Adaptation: From Eastern Texas and Oklahoma across the South to the Atlantic coast and north along a line from Macon, GA to Dallas, TX. Durana persists well under grazing.
Benefits: Research and ranch experiences repeatedly demonstrate the superior feed value of a white clover-grass mixture compared to grass alone. Improvements in conception rates, milk production, calf weaning weights, daily gains and animal health can be realized. Durana-grass mixtures may also be used for high-quality hay or silage. Durana also captures atmosheric nitrogen - 50 to 125 lbs. per acre per year.
Nutrition: 18 to 28% crude protein and total digestable nutrients(TDN) ranging from 65 to 85%. Highest values will be obtained with a vegetative to 10% bloom harvest. Maturity of the crop at harvest will determine individual results.
• Rate: 3 lbs./acre drilled or broadcast into established pastures; 5 lbs./acre for a pure stand.
• Date: September - November in southern U.S. Frost seeded-February and March. Spring seeded in late March or April.
• Method: Graze or clip pasture close prior to seeding.
• Depth: 1/4" maximum; many stand failures result from seed planted too deep.
• Fertilizer: Liming to a pH of 6.0 and providing adequate levels of potassium and phosphorus are necessary to ensure a productive clover stand. Soil testing is highly recommended; see your local county extension office for details.
Management: Durana seed is pelletized with a coating of lime and selected Rhizobia strains for optimal nitrogen fixation and once established and nodulated will not require the adition of nitrogen. Clip or harvest surplus forage in understocked pastures. Under continuous grazing, keeping the grass height at 2 to 6" will help maintain the clover and control the grass and weeds.
Special Considerations: Bloat can be a problem for animals on pastures with a large proportion (>35%) of white clover. Bloat-preventative supplement materials are recommended.
The Yield Up Brand Denotes Pennington's Best.
Durana white clover qualifies to be a Yield Up brand because of its superior persistence under grazing. Durana is a durable, all purpose white clover you can count on to persist under grazing, compete in tall fescue and bermudagrass sod, maintain a long stand life, provide a high quality diet to grazing animals, and fix nitrogen to share with companion grasses.
Absolutely wonderful little company! Purchase 2 pounds of Riviera seed with the germination date of February 2017!
Fantastic packaging delivery...Read More ->
I purchased this argentine Bahia and a bag of 16-4-08
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addition to the...Read More ->
We are on our second order. the seed is very good,, very happy with the fast shipping..
God Bless to All!
Boe Heffner 04/2015Read More ->
I live in Tallahassee, Florida and found Hancock Seed Company on-line. Extremely impressed. Bought Bahia seed and clover seed. Timely delivery and...Read More ->
We moved into a new-to-us Florida home in January of 2012. We came from Illinois where having a good lawn is easy. We were told by lots of people to...Read More ->
I just wanted to send you some pictures to show you how well the grass seed we bought from Hancock Seed in mid June 2008 worked for us. We had our...Read More ->
Had nothing but good seed from this company they are great. Seed will grow anywhereRead More ->
Wanted to take the time to tell you guys I am very happy with my purchase experience.
This is my first order. Stupid fast shipping time. Packaging...Read More ->
Don't buy from Z Farms all the plugs died. Hancock Seed company is way Better All there plugs are still green Not Like Z Farms where brown when i got...Read More ->
Dear Hancock Seed: Attached please find some photos of some food plots that were planted with your Wild Turkey mix only 4 weeks ago in the NC...Read More ->


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MORGEN AL IN HUIS met DPD of bpost / PostNL GRATIS LEVERING vanaf € 99 (België & Nederland)
Claw Gear Aviceda Fleece Hoody in Coyote.Surprisingly light fleece hoody, ideal as a warming middle layer or as a top jacket.
Our plan was to develop a middle layer, which was light and versatile, and which could be easily stowed. The Aviceda meets all these requirements perfectly.The fleece is very comfortable to wear, breathes well and is damp resistant. The modern cut ensures ease of movement. Features:


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Keaffaber shuts down AC in Kokomo semis, 5-1
KOKOMO—About an hour away from their Lady Jet counter-parts battling for a 2A state title in softball, the men from Adams Central were in a struggle of their own to get back to the state title game for the first time since 2001.
The Jets ran into a brick wall named Ryan Keaffaber, however, as the Northfield Norsemen ended Adams Central's fantastic road to the state title game in a 5-1 victory.
Keaffaber led the Norsemen to the title game win last season as a junior and will look to repeat as a senior next Saturday in Indy after dismissing the Jets. With the complete game win on the mound against AC, the senior is now the all-time leader in Indiana for wins in a career as he is 47-4 (13-1 this year) topping Steve DeRoos of Wheeler who accomplished a 46-win slate in 1987.
"He's good," admitted AC coach Dave Neuenschwander after the loss. "I told the guys that if he's that good to shut us down than I'll tip my hat to him and that's what he did. He's a smart pitcher and knows when to throw his pitches. We knew coming in that this was going to have to be a 2-0, 2-1 kind of game to win."


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Monroe College's Bronx campus is an ideal urban campus located in the bustling Fordham section.
Located in downtown New Rochelle, the Monroe College New Rochelle campus is nestled in a diverse, thriving suburban community in Westchester County.
Located on the Vide Boutielle Highway, Monroe College's St. Lucia campus offers a practical education designed to give students a competitive edge in the workplace.
The minor in legal studies is designed for students who are interested in a career in law, government, politics or public administration. Legal professionals like practicing attorneys will introduce students to negotiation and mediation techniques. Students will also learn about legal research, designing new procedures and analyzing legal documents.
Why would any company spend over $2 million dollars on a 30-second Super Bowl advertisement? Why would Barack Obama enlist a small army of young social networking experts to help him win his first presidential election? These questions illustrate the breadth of a marketing professional's impact on our society. The rise of new technologies continues to rapidly change how organizations communicate with potential consumers. Yet the process for establishing brand identities, advertising strategies and planning and executing these ideas remains steeped in well-known principles. Selecting a minor in marketing will enable you to gain knowledge of marketing to complement the knowledge gained in your major area of study.
Finance addresses the ways in which individuals and businesses allocate and use economic resources over time taking into account the risks associated with their projects. Students will be exposed to a range of concepts about how businesses raise capital, make investments and track costs. Finance is an integral part of all organizations.
Each year in the United States, there are more than 700,000 new businesses started by individuals with a dream, passion and desire to build a lifestyle of independence. This entrepreneurial spirit is one of the most significant economic developments in recent business history. Thomas Zimmerer says in his book Essentials of Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management that "entrepreneurial heroes are reshaping the business environment; with vigor, their businesses have introduced innovative products and services, pushed back technological frontiers, created new jobs, opened foreign markets and in the process provided their founders with the opportunity to do what they enjoy most."
For employees to work effectively requires an organizational understanding of human behavior as well as economical, technological and legal elements. Human resource management activities include staffing an organization, designing jobs and teams, developing skillful employees, identifying ways to improve employee performance and rewarding employee success. In the past, human resource personnel focused on administrative functions like managing employee benefits concerns, recruiting employees and conducting interviews. Current human resources staff balance these responsibilities as well as discuss strategic planning with top executives. Executives recognize how a human resources team helps to ensure a company's success.
The accounting minor allows students to demonstrate to potential employers a special interest in the field while still obtaining a general business degree.
The explosion of e-commerce, the use of credit cards and a heightened regulatory environment for financial disclosure has led to an increased demand for forensic accounting professionals. These professionals combine accounting, auditing and investigative skills to try and piece together a true picture of financial activity, often for court cases. The forensic accounting minor allows accounting students to demonstrate to potential employers a special interest in the field while still obtaining a general accounting degree.
Minoring in sports management will help lay a foundation in the management, finance, accounting, marketing, communications, ethics and legal aspects of the sports industry. Specific courses will give students an understanding of the role of sport in society, the role of management in sport and opportunities to apply their knowledge in sport-related organizations.
The entertainment and media management minor is designed for students interested in record labels, book and magazine publishing, television networks, independent films, cable companies and internet media conglomerates. A minor or concentration in this area is intended to provide students with practical and professional training while taking advantage of being in New York City, one of the world's top cities for the business of entertainment. The entertainment and media management minor features industry-experienced instructors and networking internship opportunities.


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Live streaming services cost a lot, and you need a good Internet connection to even make it worth the investment. 9to5Forums has uncovered a website that will allow you to watch live television from most major cable networks for free on any device, be it iOS or Android.
The current list offers channels from both the United States and European networks, and even tells you the programming currently playing on the channel. In the U.S. list, you can access basic channels like NBC and ABC, and it's got local news from the east and west coasts. The main list even has a questionable "XXX" channel that we're not gonna try to find out about, but you can sample it at your own discretion.
We tested it out with a Samsung Galaxy S II Skyrocket and an iPhone 4S and both were not able to access many channels, if at all. This is probably due to heightened traffic and possible lawyers cracking down on shutting the videos out. The one that does work, however, streams rather well and runs quite smoothly. If you have any luck with more channels, power to you!
Even though we're not naming the site specifically, it's still unclear how long the site will be around given its powers and many copyright-breaking ways. Just don't get too excited and cancel your cable subscription yet, and enjoy while it lasts.


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No reviews yet - be the first to write one!
Detailed overview -
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Musicians from Tempe who love metal and science decided to combine them. Focusing on traditional metal influences and inspiration from theoretical physics and astronomy combine to create a unique, ambient metal experience.
Detailed discography -
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This band needs more fans (at least 20) before recommendations can be made.
Bottom heavy open chords that resonate strong enough to shake the core of the earth. Skyrocketing bursts of oscillating guitar leads layer an ominous and dark undercurrent of rhythm. While hardcore punk may be the sound that rules the day in The Contortionist hometown of Indianapolis, it is the band's signature brand of forward thinking heavy metal that has made them stick out as hometown favorites. The band worked hard to amass a following beyond Indiana though consistent regional shows, coastal touring, and two self-released EPs.
Become a partner


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Fort Hays State University > Online Learners > Virtual College > Student Services > Financial Aid
Virtual CollegeHammond Hall 201600 Park Street
Hays, KS 67601
Phone: 785-628-4291
Toll Free: 800-628-FHSU
Fax: 785-628-4037Email: email@example.com Request Information
Making affordable even more affordable. We understand that many of our students have other financial obligations that make affording any tuition a challenge. That's why we offer a wide variety of financial aid resources. The FHSU Financial Assistance Office will help you apply for all forms of financial aid, including
Current TuitionFinancial Assistance Office Fort Hays State's Title IV Code is 001915
*Making Sense of Financial Assistance*
FormsThese forms open in PDF format, which requires Adobe Acrobat Reader.


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AMERICUS, GA. – In the 91st minute of overtime, sophomore midfielder Katie Cooper scored the game-winning goal to pull the Cobras past the Hurricanes of Georgia Southwestern in a non-conference matchup on Thursday (Sept. 19).
It was a close contest from start to finish as neither team could take command in the first 90 minutes of regulation. Coker ripped off 28 shots in regulation, while the 'Canes fired off 12 off their own, but neither offense could find nylon.
Lizz Morris landed her first shut out of the season and headed the defense with six saves on the day.
Jordan Roy, Millie Rogers, and Jessi Campos kept the Hurricane defense on their heels by each putting four shots on goal.
Coker will be looking to add to their success this Saturday (Sept. 21) as the travel to face Anderson in a South Atantic Conference competition. Game time is set for 1:00 PM.


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1. To remove the smell of cat urine, soak up as much of the cat urine as you can with a dry paper towel.
2. Then stir a mix of warm water and baking soda until it's the consistency of a paste.
3. Rub the paste into the stained area.
4. Mix 1/3 cup of undiluted white distilled vinegar with 1 cup of lukewarm water and blot the area thoroughly.
5. Blot the area up with a clean, wet paper towel, and repeat the process three times.
6. Let the area dry. If you still detect cat urine odor, then repeat the process. If there is a strong smell of vinegar simply let it dry. If the vinegar smell is still around after it dries, use soap and water to clean the area once again. You can also add some lemon juice to help remove the vinegar smell. You can follow-up with a commercial product such as Febreeze which has been known to work to reduce the smell of cat urine.
Undiluted white distilled vinegar can be used for coloring easter eggs - canning - pickling - marinating - removing beer stains, remove grass stains, candy stains, coffee stains, deoderant stains, removing human urine smell, feces stains, remove cat urine smell, mustard stains, remove rust stains, sweat stains, tea stains, remove urine stains and for cleaning shower heads to remove blockage.
What is the name of the acid in vinegar? | Why My Cat Quit Using the Litter Box


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Views: 369
OK, my observations of Wicca;
Wicca is very spiritual. It seems to attract the agnostic, and not so much orthodox atheists. I have seen rituals where a prediction or wish for the future is writen in impromptu symbology on paper, then burned at a ceremony to make it come true. Sounds pretty rediculous to me. Not much different than the catholic communion ritual. Here ritual seems to be the operative word. It seems that if there is ritual attached, it somehow legitimizes radical behaviors. In the case of Wiccans, that behavior appears to be running around the woods naked. OK, nothing really wrong with running around the woods naked if that's what you want to do, but if you truly believe that this behavior has some impact on nature or the world around you, it's my guess that you have a circuitry problem in your cerebral cortex.
I say we all run around the woods naked because it seems like a good idea. Makes more sense to me, but I doubt you'll ever see me do it.
To answer your question though, Wicca isn't "harmful" unless like other "cults" it is pressed on children.
I don't know that religions per se are harmful as much as the people who "practice" them. I could care less what a person believes in terms of god, or afterlife, but I care very much about how they act on their religious beliefs. Proselytism is evil in my book, because they come and disturb people. Megachurches with megamillionaire pastors bother me, because that money would be far better used serving the poor and the sick, and victims of natural disasters. If a Christian sacrifices in order to help others WITHOUT hinging it on converting to Christianity, then that is a good thing, and I admire them for that. But when missionaries go out ostensibly to help 3rd world countries, but with the real objective of converting them to Christianity, I find that revolting. They just found an untouched tribe of about 200 people in the Amazon, and while the Brazilian government wants them left alone, what do you bet that some missionary is going to sneak in with his book and his diseases and wipe that tribe off the face of the earth?
The only religions I respect are those which keep to themselves and leave everyone else alone. I DO think it is possible to coexist with religious people, and there ARE sincerely good religious people, but the crazy ones are louder and more obnoxious. I was raised in the reform Jewish tradition (although my family is now all atheist/agnostic), and was very carefully taught not to bother the Christians. I just wish they and the Muslims would return the favor.
Religion can be harmful when it causes people to make irrational decisions. The major religions are harmful, especially in a democracy, when they affect us by their power of numbers-- changing laws that oppress minorities like Atheists and discourage scientific research like stem cell research and other fields that could prove beneficial.
I think Wicca is not harmful now because there are few adherents and they are generally peaceful. What would it look like if Wiccians were in the majority? I'm not sure. If Wiccians were in the majority would they be opposed to reason? Would we have "non-witch" hunts? Would they insist on having their rituals performed in public? Would they favor politicians that at least give lip service to their beliefs?
Is it useful to replace one set of irrational beliefs like Christianity or Islam with another like Wicca? What's the difference? Our society progresses when we are rational and free thought and science is allowed to flourish. What religion would be the best custodian of our freedoms? I think the answer to that question is "None". We are far better off as a secular society that promotes free thought and freedom from religion.
If Wiccans were the majority...well I have met some pagans who talked about killing all the Christians "why not, they've been doing that to us for eons". I can't stand the mentality of killing people now because of something that people did hundreds of years ago. Nobody can change the past. I've also read interviews with pagan fundamentalists who encouraged all other religions to leave the planet because "pagans are the only ones who love the earth".
There are others, probably the majority, who are more tolerant, of course. But if they were the majority I think it would be the same church/state struggles. Pagans I've known basically have thought pagan prayers are not a violation of church and state, or the "it's different because my religion is benevolent" attitude.
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Web Posted: 07/21/2009 12:00 CDT
Elder fraud case costs upholsterer
By Craig Kapitan - Express-News
A well-known local upholstery business was ordered to pay more than $100,000 in fines Monday after pleading no contest to trying to charge an elderly customer more than $62,000 for drapes that cost them $2,250 to purchase and install.
Arrow Upholstery & Drapery was ordered to pay a $102,000 fine in the second-degree felony elder fraud case.
The company's owner, Sidney Lachman, wasn't in the 399th District Court when the ruling was issued. Neither was his son-in-law Scott Fahrenthold, who made the sale.
Attorney Jesse Sepulveda, who entered the no contest plea on behalf of the business, declined comment Monday.
Bertha Briggs, who lived in the Towers retirement community, contacted Arrow Upholstery in April 2006 to install five window drapes. The business initially charged her $62,000 but later agreed to reduce the amount to $11,300 after her daughter complained, according to court documents.
Despite the steep reduction, Briggs was still overcharged, her daughter, Sharon Morey, said in court documents.
Morey traveled from California to meet with the Bexar County district attorney's office in June 2006, after getting a call from her mother's bank attempting to verify a $35,000 down payment check to Arrow Upholstery.
The daughter said Briggs, who died this year, was 90 years old and her eyesight, hearing and memory were failing at the time the purchase was made.
"She had never been good with numbers or finances, and now whatever skill she once had is virtually gone," Morey previously said in court documents. "She frequently says to anyone, including strangers, 'I can't see, I can't hear, but otherwise I'm all right.'"
Briggs' relatives also weren't in court Monday.
It's rare but not unheard of for the district attorney's office to charge a corporation instead of an individual, according to prosecutor Joanne Woodruff. In such cases, there is no possibility of prison time, but a business can be fined up to twice the amount deemed fraudulently taken, she said.
Had an individual been prosecuted instead, the maximum fine would have been $10,000.
The key element that made this incident elder fraud instead of merely an unethical sale was Briggs' lack of mental facilities, Woodruff said.
"It's rarely a criminal offense to overcharge someone," she said. "But due to the diminished capacity and the exorbitant price charged ... it became a criminal act."
Woodruff suggested that elderly residents help avoid such scams by allowing a trusted relative to review bank statements.
As part of Monday's plea agreement, the employee who sold Briggs the curtains agreed to plead guilty at a later time in misdemeanor court to deceptive business practices.
Elder fraud case costs upholsterer
The sad thing is they have older women in their commercials I suppose to make the elderly feel better about using their services.
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The United States Professional Tennis Association, the world's leader in tennis-teaching certification, provides tennis-teaching professionals with the opportunity to earn the sport's most respected certification by participating in one of more than 150 USPTA Certification Exams scheduled nationwide in 2013 (click here to view). Additional dates will be added.
USPTA's Certification Exam includes an on-court evaluation of tennis strokes and playing skills, feeding and grip analysis, private and group lesson instruction, and other skills needed in the tennis-teaching profession. The exam also includes a two-hour written test covering teaching, playing and business management skills, 10 and Under Tennis rules, club activity programming and other topics. Applicants can now opt to take the written and grip exams online after completing the on-court portions of the certification test.
The exam process also offers the Professional Tennis Coaches Academy I that covers test topics. The PTCA I can be taken at Regional Testing Centers, which offer tests every other month on the same weekends, or it can be taken online. The course is also useful to current USPTA members who wish to review specific exam areas before upgrading their certification ratings. Topics include sport psychology, developing student rapport, class organization, lesson progression and a review of teaching techniques.
Contact USPTA at 800-877-8248 or email firstname.lastname@example.com to register for an upcoming exam, or for further details. Advanced registration is required. The total fee for the exam and application is $175, plus prorated USPTA membership dues.


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Monday 19 November 2018 (other days)
Monday of week 33 in Ordinary Time
Dómine, lábia mea apéries.
Et os meum annuntiábit laudem tuam.
Lord, open our lips.
And we shall praise your name.
Præoccupémus fáciem Dómini in confessióne.
(repeat antiphon*)
2Iubiláte Dómino, omnis terra,*
servíte Dómino in lætítia;
introíte in conspéctu eius*
in exsultatióne.
3Scitóte quóniam Dóminus ipse est Deus;†
ipse fecit nos, et ipsíus sumus,*
pópulus eius et oves páscuæ eius.
(repeat antiphon*)
4Introíte portas eius in confessióne,†
átria eius in hymnis,*
confitémini illi, benedícite nómini eius.
5Quóniam suávis est Dóminus;†
in ætérnum misericórdia eius,*
et usque in generatiónem et generatiónem véritas eius.
(repeat antiphon*)
Glória Patri et Fílio*
et Spirítui Sancto.
Sicut erat in princípio et nunc et semper*
et in sǽcula sæculórum.
(repeat antiphon*)
Let us come before the Lord, giving thanks.
(repeat antiphon*)
Rejoice in the Lord, all the earth,
and serve him with joy.
Exult as you enter his presence.
(repeat antiphon*)
Know that the Lord is God.
He made us and we are his
– his people, the sheep of his flock.
(repeat antiphon*)
Cry out his praises as you enter his gates,
fill his courtyards with songs.
Proclaim him and bless his name;
for the Lord is our delight.
His mercy lasts for ever,
his faithfulness through all the ages.
(repeat antiphon*)
Glory be to the Father and to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit,
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end.
(repeat antiphon*)
* If you are reciting this on your own, you can choose to say the antiphon once only at the start of the psalm and not repeat it.
The psalms and canticles here are our own translation. The Grail translation of the psalms, which is used liturgically in most of the English-speaking world, cannot be displayed on the Web for copyright reasons. The Universalis apps, programs and downloads do contain the Grail translation of the psalms.
You can also view this page in English only.
|This web site © Copyright 1996-2018 Universalis Publishing Ltd · Contact us · Cookies/privacy


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When you stay with good friends, they generously extend their utmost hospitality by providing a welcoming and comfortable place to stay.
Think of Larkspur Landing Hillsboro as those good friends. We want to make your stay as comfortable as possible which is why we offer our plush bedding, outfitted with high thread-count sheets, a quilted down comforter, a premium duvet cover, and a selection of six pillows. When you need to work, our living room areas feature oversized desks and complimentary wireless Internet. And when you're ready to relax, each room has an iPod docking station and a flat-screen LCD TV with DVD player.
At the Larkspur Landing Hillsboro, we provide the highest level of comfort and extend our own genuine hospitality to each of our guests. We like to think of you as friends visiting from out of town, so in turn, you can think of us as your home away from home.
All suites feature these amenities:
- Complimentary WiFi
- Separate sleeping, living, and dining spaces
- Fully equipped kitchen (appliances, dishware, cookware, and silverware)
- Flat-screen LCD TV with DVD player
- iPod docking station
- Oversized desk
- Cordless telephone and voicemail
- Hair dryer
- Iron with ironing board
- Lather bath and body products


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These are made with wedges of a moist, rich cake and served with a sauce that blends cooked and fresh strawberries.
- Yield
- Makes 8 servings
- Cake:
- Nonstick vegetable oil spray
- 1 1/2 cups cake flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cup plus 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 8-ounce package cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sauce:
- 2 pounds strawberries, hulled, divided
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 tablespoons sugar, divided
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups chilled whipping cream
- 1 1/2 tablespoons powdered sugar plus additional for sprinkling
- 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For cake:
- Preheat oven to 350°. Spray 9-inch diameter cake pan with 2-inch-high sides with nonstick spray. Sprinkle bottom and sides of pan with sugar; tap out any excess sugar. Whisk flour and baking powder in medium bowl. Using electric mixer, beat 1 cup sugar, cream cheese, and butter in large bowl to blend. Beat milk, eggs, and vanilla in another medium bowl to blend. Beat milk mixture into cream cheese mixture. Add dry ingredients; beat until smooth. Transfer batter to prepared pan. Sprinkle remaining 1 tablespoon sugar over top of batter.
- Bake cake until golden brown on top and tester inserted into center comes out clean, about 40 minutes. Cool in pan on rack. do ahead Can be made 8 hours ahead. Cover and let stand at room temperature.
- For sauce:
- Place half of strawberries (about 3 cups) in processor. Using on/off turns, process until coarsely chopped. Transfer to medium saucepan; reserve processor. Add 1/4 cup water, 2 tablespoons sugar, and lemon juice to chopped berries. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until strawberries are very tender, about 4 minutes. Return strawberry mixture to processor and puree until smooth. Strain sauce through fine mesh strainer into medium bowl. Cover and chill until cold, about 2 hours. do ahead Can be made 8 hours ahead. Keep chilled.
- Quarter remaining strawberries. Toss with remaining 1 tablespoon sugar in another medium bowl. Let stand at room temperature until sugar dissolves and juices form, tossing occasionally, about 30 minutes. Add strawberry sauce. Cover and chill. Whip chilled whipping cream, 1 1/2 tablespoons powdered sugar, and vanilla in large bowl until peaks form. Cut cake into 8 wedges. Split each wedge horizontally in half. Place bottom of each wedge on plate. Spoon strawberry mixture over, then top with dollop of whipped cream. Place top of cake over cream. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve.
Related Video
Nutritional Info
- Calories555
- Carbohydrates65 g(22%)
- Fat31 g(47%)
- Protein7 g(14%)
- Saturated Fat16 g(81%)
- Sodium166 mg(7%)
- Polyunsaturated Fat2 g
- Fiber3 g(11%)
- Monounsaturated Fat10 g
- Cholesterol129 mg(43%)


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Trinity Catholic fired on all cylinders on Friday night in its preseason classic against Crystal River.
Trinity Catholic fired on all cylinders on Friday night in its preseason classic against Crystal River.
Playing its varsity team for the first half, the Celtics rang up a 43-0 rout on the Pirates.
"We really needed to come out and play against someone else before (our regular season opener next week on the road in Baltimore against Calvert Hall)," Celtics coach John Brantley said. "I was worried about being able to get the game in (after a 30-minute weather delay at the start), but our field drains well.
"After that, our kids came out ready to play and did a great job."
The Celtics scored on six of their eight drives in the first half and took advantage of numerous miscues by the Pirates.
Trinity Catholic forced five fumbles and recovered two, which led directly to 14 points.
The Celtics led 29-0 after a quarter of play and outgained the Pirates 155 to minus-19 yards over the game's first 12 minutes.
Crystal River ran 10 plays and was held to no gain or negative yardage on half of them, as the Trinity Catholic defense was dominant.
On offense, Trinity Catholic was just as good.
London Gaskin (nine carries, 93 yards, two touchdowns), Johnny Taylor (nine carries, 69 yards, one touchdown), Mark Franklin (four carries, 12 yards, one touchdown) paced a rushing attack that gained 174 yards on 23 carries.
When the Celtics went to the air, quarterback Reid Carlton finished up 5-of-7 for 111 yards and two touchdowns.
Richie DeNicola (three catches, 39 yards) was Carlton's favorite target, while Rudi Outar and Nick Mazzurco hauled in scoring strikes.
Trinity Catholic's defense was already in midseason form, as it held the Pirates to minus 33-yards rushing and 36 yards of total offense.
The Celtics scored on an early safety on defense and set up their offense with an average starting field position at the CRHS 49-yard line.
By comparison, the Pirates started four of their six drives inside their own 20-yard line and managed just three first downs, while TCHS hammered out 14 in a 285-yard output in just two quarters.
"I was real pleased with the way things," Brantley said. "Plus, we dressed 76 kids and 65 of them got some playing time. I was real proud of everyone's effort."


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Campus Happenings
NDUS Blog
NDUS Home
Clark named Interim President of Bismarck State College
Posted on 10/25/2013
For More Information Contact:
Linda Donlin, Director of Communications and
Media Relations
North Dakota University System
Phone: 701.328.2962
BISMARCK, N.D. - The North Dakota State Board of Higher Education today confirmed the appointment of David L. Clark, current executive vice president at Bismarck State College, to be the interim president at BSC from Nov. 1, 2013 to June 30, 2015. Clark was recommended by Dr. Larry C. Skogen, current BSC president, who begins his term as the interim chancellor of the North Dakota University System on Nov. 1 and also serves through June 2015.
"We have great confidence in Dave Clark and his ability to lead Bismarck State during this period," said Kirsten Diederich, president of the State Board of Higher Education. "Chancellor Skogen made an excellent recommendation, and we're pleased to welcome such a qualified executive to the leadership team."
Skogen said, "Dave has extensive corporate, state and higher education experience. During BSC's recent rapid growth in student enrollments, facilities renovations and expansion, online delivery and budget development and execution, I counted heavily on his excellent advice, intuitive senses, and no-nonsense analysis. I know that over the next 20 months he'll maintain strong hands on the levers of BSC ensuring the institution continues to move forward, continues to be responsive to a wide variety of stakeholders, and continues to focus BSC on student success."
Clark grew up in New England, N.D., and Bismarck, obtaining his associate degree at BSC, his bachelor's degree at the University of Mary, Bismarck; and his MBA at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. He worked at Basin Electric as a cost analyst, then moved to the Office of Management and Budget for the State of North Dakota, where he served in positions of increasing responsibility in budget analysis and fiscal management. In 1990, he accepted a position at BSC as vice president of operations, was promoted to vice president of operations and corporate and continuing education and finally to his current position as executive vice president. Clark is active in the Bismarck community, in higher education within NDUS, and on a regional and national basis. He and his wife, Sue, have one son.
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The HyperStar C9.25 lens converts a standard Celestron 9.25" SCT from f/10 to f/2.3, making the system 18 times faster. That means 18-times shorter exposures! Now you can capture deep-sky images without guiding and without an equatorial wedge (in alt-az configuration). The HyperStar lens shortens the focal length of the telescope, giving a much wider field of view, and giving a greater tolerance of tracking errors, allowing for unguided, alt-az imaging.
The HyperStar C9.25 is compatible with a variety of cameras, including both CCDs and DSLRs. Like the other 8" and larger HyperStar models, the HyperStar C9.25 covers up to a 27mm (APS-size) sensor. Separate adapters are required for different cameras. One adapter is included with the HyperStar lens.
Optical performance is excellent, with a coma-free, flat field of view almost 3 degrees wide.
What telescopes are compatible?
Only new, factory-equipped Fastar-compatible 9.25" SCT telescopes have a removable secondary mirror assembly, allowing the use of the HyperStar C9.25 lens. Older 9.25" SCTs are NOT compatible, nor can they be converted.
Why are the other HyperStar lenses faster?
The 9.25" SCT uses a slightly different optical configuration, in order to produce a flatter field of view and have a smaller central obstruction. This means it uses a slower primary mirror (f/2.3 versus the f/2 mirror in other SCTs). This means the HyperStar has to be slightly slower to retain its excellent optical performance. The difference between f/2.3 and f/2 is negligible.
- Focal Ratio: f/2.3
- Focal Length: 540mm
- Maximum Usable Sensor Size: 27mm Diagonal (APS Format)
- Field of View (with 27mm sensor): 2.8 degrees
- DSLR Compatible
- Camera Adapter Threaded for 2" (48mm) Filters
- Backfocus (from mounting thread to focal plane): 59.7mm (2.35")
- Length (without camera adapter): 4.2"
- Diameter: 4.1"
- Weight: 1.8 lbs.
HyperStar C9.25 Fork-Mounted OTA Instructions
HyperStar C9.25 German EQ-Mounted OTA Instructions
Watch a HyperStar demo under light polluted skies using an Alt-Az mount.


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Private maths tutors that come to you
Getting through school can be challenging! Not just for the student but for the parents too. We want to make academic success Ezy-er for your family. We have 3 maths tutors available to come to New Lambton Heights, NSW. The right tutor can make a world of difference for your child. The program is tailored to your child but our usual goal is to help the student become an independent learner so they can succeed in exam conditions without a tutor's help. Easier said than done but we have some incredible educators available - check out some of our reviews at the bottom of the page.
The service is really easy to use. Your maths tutor comes to your home (or any location you specify) at a time and day that you select. There is no minimum hours requirement or cancellation costs or contracts or booking fees. We simply invoice you at the end of each month for the tuition time used. Ezy!
Most importantly: We want you to love your tutor! That's why the first hour is a trial, if you don't feel the tutor is a good fit we'll organise someone else at not cost.
Want to give it a try? Complete an enquiry form and we'll reach out to you, Or call us at 1300 312 354.
Information Processing/Technology
Software Design/Development
Ancient History


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BestKiteboarding.com Secures Financing
BestKiteboarding.com, the Web-based action sports manufacturer and retailer founded by internet entrepreneur Alex Shogren and professional wake-boarder turned kite-boarder, Shannon Best, has closed on its first round of funding led by Allen & Co., the New York investment bank. Other investors include several influential names from Wall Street and the action sports industry.
Ian Huschle, CEO of parent company Best Action Sports, Inc., said, "We're extremely well positioned with the business experience and financial backing of our new partners. This investment gives us the wherewithal to push forward with our broad development plans for the brand, both within kite sports and the wider action sports market.â€


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October 23, 2012
Strategies for Finding a Job with a Small Law Firm
Career Steps
Strategies for Finding a Job with a Small Law Firm
While there are tried-and-true tactics that apply to most job-hunting endeavors, new graduates and junior lawyers looking for a job with a small firm need to understand how those firms differ from their larger counterparts. Here are some strategies to employ if you are looking for a small firm position.
Blanketing potential employers with unsolicited, nonspecific letters and resumes is never your best bet, but that's especially true when it comes to small law firms. Small firms do not have a recruiting administrator or, in most cases, a human resources manager, so sending a letter to the aforementioned nonexistent person isn't likely to garner a response. And generally, unless there is an immediate and pressing vacancy, a busy small firm lawyer isn't likely to respond to an unsolicited "Dear Hiring Partner" letter, either. At best, your snail-mail probably ends up in the "to-do" later (much later) pile.
So how will you get the attention of a prospective small firm employer? As in any job search, it's important that you try to think like your audience. To that end, it's helpful to talk to lawyers who work in small firms to solicit strategy recommendations based on how they were hired. While this economy may call for different measures, precedent is always helpful. That's a good first step. Here are other steps you should take.
Address the Firm's Needs
Cash flow may not be a week-to-week issue at a large firm, but at small firms the fiscal equation is different—and the outlay of cash needed for a new associate can represent a significant commitment. It's imperative that you understand the economics of a small firm if you are going to present yourself as an attractive candidate. You need to be seen as a profit center, not as a cost center. If you are able to convince a small firm that you will help increase revenue rather than be a drain on income, you are far more likely to be perceived as a viable hire. But as a new lawyer, how can you do that?
Put your entrepreneurial inclinations to work and demonstrate that you understand the business needs of small firms. You have to make a case to the partners about the ways in which you will be able to contribute to the bottom line. So be prepared to articulate how you can help generate revenue for the particular firm. If you have specific coursework in the areas in which the firm practices, highlight that. If you have any previous work experience in the firm's practice arena, highlight that. If you have any background as an entrepreneur, running an organization, or selling or marketing products or services, emphasize that. Also, if you can bring knowledge to the firm that its lawyers don't currently have—think of e-discovery or another cutting-edge practice subject that may be foreign to more senior attorneys—that might help position you as an immediate asset.
In addition, you want to highlight your good work habits and your understanding of efficiencies, billing and how law firms make money. If you don't feel up to speed, read about the business aspects of running a firm until you can converse about this important topic. The ABA Law Practice Management Section has lots of online information and articles to help you. When candidates solicit work, one of the biggest mistakes they make is highlighting how the job will be important to them and their development. The search should always be focused on how you can help the employer, not yourself.
Target Your Particular Audience
So where will you find small firm lawyers who might potentially want to hire you—or who might at least teach you a thing or two about the doings of small firms? One logical place to look is the courthouse.
It's stunning that so many new law school graduates neglect to make a trip to the local courthouse to watch trials and other lawyer activities in action. Spending some time visiting local courthouses can be invaluable in learning what it's like for small firm lawyers to practice, and it could expand your employment prospects, too. If you want to practice bankruptcy, be sure to go to that court. If you want to be in domestic practice, find out which judges are on that docket and where their courtrooms are. If you announce yourself to the clerk as a newly minted lawyer, you might very well be introduced to the judge and the attorneys in the matter. Understandably, this is not for the meek; but you need to overcome myriad fears to become a practicing lawyer. Within a short amount of time you can be face-to-face with a number of small firm lawyers who practice in your fields of interest.
Another strategy involves visiting targeted law offices with your resume. While, again, this is not for the timid, it's a far more entrepreneurial approach than just blindly mailing out letters. It also requires some advance planning to maximize its effectiveness. You want to contact each firm in advance to find out who in the firm is designated to receive applications so you can place the appropriate name on your resume package for each office. Dress in a suit, take your letter and resume directed to the designated hiring persons, knock on the firms' doors, and ask if the designated hiring persons are available. Odds are good they won't be, but you will still have an excellent opportunity to make a positive impression on the receptionists or office managers. Make your case to them that you are looking for work in the firm's practice areas, and that you want to meet with Mr. or Ms. Partner to talk about how you can help the firm. A trusted receptionist can, in turn, make a case for you that you could never make for yourself in a snail-mail letter or an e-mail.
Before you leave make sure you have the name of the person with whom you interacted. It will help you when you make the follow-up call. This process requires attention to detail, a commitment to following up, and the courage to have face-to-face contact—but it also shows you have initiative and the courage of your convictions.
Where else can you get ideas on how to target your search? Go where the lawyers go. For example, is there a local watering hole that litigators from small firms frequent after work? Take a friend or other job searcher and stop by at the end of the day. Nurse a club soda or a beer and make contacts. Attend your local bar association functions, and join the sections for the practice areas you wish to pursue. Ask questions, and seek advice.
Consider Alternatives to Full-Time Employment
Perhaps you have a good small firm prospect for an employer, but committing to a full-time hire is more than the firm is able to do at this time. You could discuss a variety of options, including working as a contract attorney or on a part-time basis. Candidates rarely put these kinds of flexible options on the table, but they could be very attractive to a firm gun-shy of making a full-time commitment.
Consider a particular time frame for the arrangement so both parties can evaluate the possibilities. If you do work on a contract basis, remember to figure in the taxes you will have to pay and the markup for your hourly rate that the firm will charge. But also remember that this is an opportunity not just for the firm to assess your abilities through actual work assignments—it's your opportunity to see what it's really like to work there and to test out any hypothesis you might have about which practice areas you want to pursue.
Reach Out to Your Personal ContactsAs with any job search, personal contacts are critical to the process. And since small firm lawyers rely on word of mouth and referrals for much of their business, when it comes to hiring it's likely to be their mode of operation, too. So to expand your employment prospects, your best strategy is to develop, foster and utilize your network of lawyer-contacts to make more connections. That includes classmates and other alumni from your law school, your law school career services office, your local and national bar associations, and pro bono groups. The more people who know you are looking, and what you are looking for, the greater the chance you can generate a referral that will lead to the job you want.
About the Author
Wendy L. Werner is a career and executive coach and law practice management consultant. She is a member of the ABA LPM Section's Law Practice Today Webzine Board.


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*Do you work for Mainzeal? Contact the Herald here.
Mainzeal Property and Construction - one of New Zealand's largest construction companies - has gone into receivership.
In a statement issued this afternoon, Mainzeal director Richard Yan said the company could no longer continue trading due to a "series of events that had adversely affected the company's financial position", combined with a general decline in commercial construction activity and lack of shareholder support.
PwC partners Colin McCloy and David Bridgman have been appointed as receivers.
Mr McCloy said the receivers were "committed to doing the best we can for suppliers, staff and subcontractors".
Mainzeal was founded in 1968 and employs more than 400 people.
It is the country's third largest construction company, behind Fletcher Construction and Hawkins Construction, and has built some of the country's largest structures, including Auckland's Vector Arena. It is also heavily involved in several major rebuilding projects around Christchurch.
- nzherald.co.nz


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450mm Ultimately an Economic Issue – according to Speakers at SEMICON Japan 450mm Executive Forum
By Yoichiro Ando, SEMI Japan
On December 5, SEMI hosted the 450mm Executive Forum at the SEMICON Japan 2013 SuperTHEATER featuring speakers from G450C, imec, Nikon and Tokyo Electron to share the perspectives of the leaders at these key organizations and enterprises with about 585 attendees packing the conference room. The bottom line commonly heard from the four speakers was "450mm is ultimately an economic issue and synchronicity among the industry through global coordination is the key to a successful transition to 450mm."
Chip Cost Must Continuously Decline by 30%
Paul Farrar, general manager at Global 450 Consortium (G450C), said historically the transitions to a larger wafer have yielded a 30 percent cost reduction and enabled economics associated with Moore's Law, and this is the underlying goal of the transition to the 450mm wafer diameter.
Roger De Keersmaecker, senior vice president at imec, pointed to ever-increasing technology complexity that pushes wafer prices up and that has begun eroding the scaling benefit. Along with EUV lithography, he said that the 450mm wafer transition will contribute the further cost scaling in accordance with Moore's Law.
Facilitating Full Industry Collaboration
At the SEMI 450mm Executive Forum at SEMICON Japan, Farrar said more than 25 tools were being delivered to G450C in 2013. As to the lithography tool, 193i patterning service will start at a Nikon site in Japan in the second half of 2014 and at Albany sometime in the first half of 2015. He also noted there was a significant progress in the wafer quality and notchless 450mm wafer standardization with SEMI. Notchless wafer proponents hope to have a standard balloted and approved by July 2014.
Both Farrar and De Keersmaecker claimed the 450mm transition calls for global collaboration throughout the semiconductor supply chain to share the cost and the risk. To facilitate this, G450C and imec are building 450mm developing environments in their respective regions, Europe and North America.
De Keersmaecker said imec plans to build a new 300/450 R&D pilot line by the first half of 2016. The full process capability will become available for device and process developments in 2017, and 450mm production is scheduled for 2019.
Synchronicity — The Key to Economic Efficiency
Kazuo Ushida, president of Precision Equipment Company at Nikon Corp., also confirmed that the 450mm wafer transition would be needed to maintain the Moore's Law cost scaling curve and discussed the transition's affordability. The 450mm tool development cost is estimated to be around 14 billion U.S. dollars but Ushida said it would increase to 20 billion U.S. dollars if 450mm tool delivery has two peaks as was the case with 300mm tool development.
Therefore, synchronicity among the entire industry is the key to a successful transition and this could be the reason that Ushida modified Nikon's schedule for high-volume manufacturing tool readiness. One year ago at SEMICON Japan, he called for tool readiness by 2017. At this year's forum, he was less specific about high-volume manufacturing and referred to readiness "when the industry makes the transition."
Akihisa Sekiguchi, VP and deputy GM at Tokyo Electron Limited, also said fixing the target node and timing among the customers would be the key to a successful transition. He said that today's technical requirements are achievable on 450mm wafers, and if the target is fixed, the company would deliver the 450mm tools at the right time and at the right cost. Additionally he pointed out that the balanced resource allocation is also critical for tool suppliers as concurrent development of 300mm and 450mm tools required today is expensive.
While 300mm tool development payback took around 20 years at Nikon, Ushida estimates 450mm tool development will occur 22 years after initial spending. Interestingly, this time to payback matches with the Boeing 747 project, according to Ushida's estimation. Both machines are considered to be cost effective though. Without appropriate coordination on the 450mm tool delivery schedule in the industry, the required time will further prolong the payback period and that is hardly acceptable to the equipment industry.
Presentations Available at 450 Central and the SEMICON Japan Website
You can download the 450 presentations and eight additional programs from the SEMICON Japan SuperTHEATER such as 3D-IC Summit and PE Summit. See the list of the programs at www.semiconjapan.org/en/sessions/supertheater.
Also, for more comprehensive coverage of 450 news, you can download these three 450 presentations from SEMICON Japan at the 450mm Central website (under "Papers/Presentations/Resources)." The website includes articles, presentations from multiple sources, and reports on 450mm development.
More information related to 450mm will be offered at upcoming SEMI events, including:
- January 12-15: Industry Strategy Symposium U.S. 2014
- Feb 7: 450mm Wafer Size Transition
- February 12-14: SEMICON Korea 2014 (450 standards)
- Feb 23-25: Industry Strategy Symposium Europe 2014
- July 8-10: SEMICON West 2014
For further information, please visit the SEMI website at www.semi.org.
January 8, 2014