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HP = twats
Everything I read about this takeover at the time said HP were mad to pay the price they were paying. They are now screaming sour grapes, and trying to recoup some cash.
The HP-Autonomy spat has, predictably, turned into a high-profile slanging match, with Autonomy founder Mike Lynch firing back at Meg Whitman via the Wall Street Journal. Hewlett-Packard has sensationally written down the value of the software company it acquired last year by nearly $US9 billion, and blamed Autonomy for " …
Everything I read about this takeover at the time said HP were mad to pay the price they were paying. They are now screaming sour grapes, and trying to recoup some cash.
They should have stuck to making brown sauce.
yeah true .. when they branched out to Fruity, Bold and BBQ versions things went a bit wrong and don't get me started on HP Guinness!
Well, HP brown sauce is in the same category as Twinkies. And Twinkies are dead now.
"....HP brown sauce is in the same category as Twinkies...." I'm a bad Englishman because I think I'd miss Twinkies more than brown sauce.
Sorry, but when Interstate bakeries goes belly up, they will sell off the brands.
They will appear under a different name.
HP to SEC. " We screwed up, and lost a bundle of cash from the US economy. However, we have these convenient British scapegoats - can you get the money back for us please? You can always extradite the former management and owners if that helps.
> They will sell off the brands.
They will sell off the brands. But they won't sell off the jobs.
It was an executive at Autonomy themselves that raised this accounting issue to HP earlier this year, after Whitman fired the former Autonomy leadership.
The leadership was fired after they missed their own targets.
When the whistle blower blew the whistle they investigated and I guess they just recently completed the investigation.
interview with Whitman:
Most people believed this acquisition was bad from the start.
"It was an executive at Autonomy themselves that raised this accounting issue to HP earlier this year"
Let's see if they'll stand up in court and publicly make that accusation then, and also let's see if they really are an "executive".
Moreover, if they were so convinced that this was going on, why didn't they notify the UK authorities that they were aware of this fraud?
Just because the Hewlett Packard board are (clearly) pillocks, and have been for years, it doesn't necessarily follow that the Autonomy purchase didn't involve dodgy dealing.
Hewlett Packard. That's what BBC R4 News were calling HP at 6pm this evening.
Where's Matt?
".....Where's Matt?" Chasing friends in low places for an unofficial response out of KPMG. ;)
... the consensus here on the Reg was that the valuation was mad. Yet all the experts, KPMG and the usual suspects, and HPs own due diligence team, were sure that it was fine. More recently the commentard consensus seemed to be much more accurate than 'the professionals' re: facebook.
Amazing how the people who are paid to get it right can get it so wrong, often at so little cost to themselves personally, however much it costs their corporations.
Good, healthy ripostes though. I'm waiting for them to cast the movie.
Larry Ellison turned it down at 1/3 the price.
Larry is an asshole, but he isn't stupid.
fail, meg, fail
sorry, that should have been 2/3s
You rise in consulting and management by telling the boss/customer what they want to here.
Eventually this results in an echo chamber where only good news and predictions bright sunny futures are heard. Plus a smattering of "lets reduce headcount" so they can feel macho as well as brilliant.
This all works splendidly until the innocent lad asks why the emperor is naked, or, the shareholders ask to see the money.
Anyway serves the septics right, They unload there Sub-Prime mortgages on our banks, we unload our super-hyped startup on them.
"Amazing how the people who are paid to get it right..."
That's the nub of it right there. They are paid to deliver a certain result and if inconvenient facts get in the way of their payday, why then, they'll just ignore them.
If they are wrong then they can just shrug their shoulders and walk off, if they are right then they are the "experts".
Either way they will be paid their fees.
"...fail, meg, fail" Autonomy was bought by Shane Robison under Leo's guidance and mandate. Meg didn't arrive until later. Fail, commentard, fail!
Ahh, but Leo isn't crying about how unfailr it is. Meg is. A stupid deal was made without due diligence. Just admit it, and get to work fixing things. Don't cry "it's unfair, we didn't know it was a bad deal," you say, "this was a fuckup, but I am here to make sure these types of things don't contenue."
Sorry for not spelling that out well enough for you, Matt.
"Ahh, but Leo isn't crying about how unfailr it is...." Well are you surprised? He no longer works at hp, he was given theboot and a golden parachute. He's probably laughing all the way to the bank.
"....Meg is...." Well it IS her job to do so. By law, she has to declare any accounting shennigans that may be fraudulent.
".... A stupid deal was made without due diligence...." Whether the deal was stupid is debateable, but due dilligence was tried. It appears that Deloitte or KPMG or Shane Robison are the ones that failed to do their jobs.
"....Just admit it...." What, that you're wrong?
"....and get to work fixing things...." Sorry, not my job. Whilst hp might be able to afford me I'm not legally qualified to go sorting through Autnomy's acounts and try clawing back and cash in court. Mind you, Leo probably wasn't qualified for his job either, but I posted on these forums at the time I thought so. Maybe I should give Meg a call....
"....Sorry for not spelling that out well enough for you, Matt." Oh, don't worry, it came though loud and clear that your desire for screaming abuse at hp far surpasses that for rational analysis.
Autonomy was a good business, HP needed more software in their portfolio and proportionately less hardware. However, HP spectacularly overpaid, fraud or not. I expect they were poorly advised (clue: 5% of $10.7B is worth a lot more than 5% of say $1B).
If (and I mean IF) Autonomy management are guilty of what HP accues them (channel stuffing, revenue recognition naughtiness, and product cross-subsidy) then HP and their advisors simply look doubly incompetent. These are the oldest tricks in the book and I would expect the average analyst in his 1st year M&A work to know about them and go hunting for them when crawling over the company.
From what I heard part of the revalations was that the margins on Autonomy ended up being much lower than originally thought (post accounting shenanigans). Originally deemed in the upper 40s to 50% range now it's in the upper 20s to 30% range.
That alone apparently would of been enough to slash it's valuation. From what I heard earlier today anyway - not my area of expertise of course.
I suspected something was up not long ago when HP started doing quite a bit of lay-offs of Autonomy folks.
I think Autonomy and their investment bankers came in and told the HP management team that Autonomy would not only be "Google for the enterprise", but, bonus, it was also "in the cloud." As soon as they heard Google and cloud, no price was too high to pay.
I assume they'll be able to write off a load of tax payments against it?
What tax?
None of this about shambolic management and cooked books would surprise me. What would surprise me is how HP's due diligence missed it.
".... how HP's due diligence missed it." HP hired KPMG to do due dilligence, so the actual question should be why KPMG missed it. I can understand why Leo didn't want to see it, he was so intent on building a vehicle to smack back at Larry, but what's KPMG's excuse?
Even if you assume everything HP is saying is the truth, which I don't... it seems to be a pass the blame attempt, we are talking about discrepancies in the millions of dollars. HP wrote off $8.8 billion. Are they honestly saying that, if not for Autonomy including hardware in IDOL's revenues and a few other minor things, the company would have been worth $8.8 billion more. The accounting claims, in total, probably equate to generously a billion dollars in valuation... so then it was a $7.8 billion overpayment. It is a question of magnitude. HP's problem is that even if Autonomy's books were without a comma out of place, they still over paid by several billion dollars, which is what everyone said the day they announced the acquisition.
As someone who often had to go into organisations who had bought Autonomy and then discovered it didn't do what was on the tin, my major surprise is that took this long.
Autonomy were well known in the information business as an outfit who sold gullible senior management the idea that funneling all your 'information' into Autonomy got you a lovely indexed and organised result. NO!
What you got was a piece of expensive software and the requirement to buy sufficient paid for consultancy to make it seem to work. Sounds familiar? recognise the scam?? How many other software packs can you name that fit the bill??
Autonomy was touted about for quite a while before HP bit it. The 'due diligence' would have looked at what Autonomy booked the revenues as, the sum of the software sale plus the counsultancy plus the addons, then added a sum for 'goodwill' leading to a $ big number and then add 'cloud' 'new market opening for HP' etc., etc. and your in the $bn stuff before you can draw breath.
Finally, bear in mind that our friends in the banking community, those paragons of business acumen, lent HP the necessary funds..... and bingo.
"what's KPMG's excuse?"
the man who did not want to see it signed their pay cheque so they told him what he wanted to hear.
Have we not seen all this before with Anderson Consulting and Enron?
I think that they should get back to their core competency: audio oscillators.
They hived that off as Agilent didn't they?
Now all they have are printer ink and pass through profits on PCs, plus the revolving door of titsup purchases of other companies.
Should have given Agilent the HP name I always thought. But no one asked me.
Ah, that would be Agilent.
Today, I deposited the money they sent me for owning some of their stock. I own three times as much HP, but all I expect from that is some "shoft lavatory paper" at this rate.
Time to flush HPs board, at the very least.
When they had a "name the new company" deal going at HP before it was split off, I turned in a sheet reading "Hewlett-Packard". They asked me, and I told them just what you would have. FWIW.
"I think that they should get back to their core competency: audio oscillators."
That's a bit unfair.
They made some nice GC/MS kit as well.
And the calculators were pretty nice too.
My favourite is the HP-42S, which has finally made my physical HP-32S redundant after many years of faithful service. For the hardcore there's Droid48, but that suffers from the physical limitations of the real calculator, which supported so many functions that it required about 3 key presses to select each one.
"I think that they should get back to their core competency: audio oscillators."
Depends how far you go back, doesn't it? Looks to me like HP's core competency for many years now has been board room revolving doors and payments for failure, over-paying for acquisitions, mismanaging both acquisitions and original core businesses, and destroying sharehoolder value.
They really ought to get that written out in flowery langugage and put on their website as a "mission statement". Arguably they could talk about building shareholder value, so long as there is a footnote that says in small print "We mean other companies' shareholders"
HP paid way too much for it.
Then squeezed the life out of what they did get.
Now they want to pass the blame.
It was blindingly obvious that they overpaid for it.
Then HP did what HP do, take something that works, and totally destroy it.
EDS worked?
Anderson was felled by Enron.
Delloite can be felled by this since they were the auditors.
Please it was "Arthur Andersen" (gotta defend the Clan Name!)
According to the rest of the commentards it was KPMG who did the due diligence.
"According to the rest of the commentards it was KPMG who did the due diligence."
Well both are liable. But KPMG would "merely" be guilty of breach of contract/professional nedligence, but Deloitte would probably be accused of being complicit in fraud (in the event that the accounts were materially manipulated). Arthur Anderson collapsed because they were in the position that Deloitte's would be (if HP's pathetic whnings are true).
Note that the audit market is now every bit as concentrated as it was at the time of Enron, so (for example) in the UK the smallest of the top 4 firms is about three times the size of the next nearest competitor. This means big listed companies almost always stick with a big four firm, so I can't see either KPMG or Deloitte going down on these accusations.
EDS, Palm, Compaq, DEC, Tandem, Skype
Didn't Skype go to Microsoft?
He's confusing Meg Whitman and HP. Meg ran ebay when they bought Skype, for reasons still unknown to everybody.
DEC was bought by Compaq before Compaq was bought by HP.
Skype was a stella purchase by one of the cast members.
I'm just reading http://tech.fortune.cnn.com/2012/05/08/500-hp-apotheker/ it is a bit long, but quite an expose of the Dark Princes on the HP Board. Does the term necrophilia apply to this situation?


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Mplus Discussion
Latent Variable Mixture Modeling
posted on Friday, January 18, 2013 - 5:01 am
I have a general question about Factor Mixture models. Having a 2-Class, 1 Factor (IRT model)
and allowing factor loading and thresholds different at each class implies that I have in each class a different factor? What does this difference mean? Difference in mean and variance , i.e., I have fj~N(mu_j, var_j).
Thanks alot
Bengt O. Muthen
posted on Friday, January 18, 2013 - 2:58 pm
Yes, then you have a different factor in each group and the factors can't be compared. Still, it relaxes the conditional independence assumption and it says that the within-class item correlations are different in the different classes. Or using other words, the "severity" dimension is defined differently in the different classes.
posted on Thursday, January 24, 2013 - 1:39 am
Thanks for your prompt reply.
I want to ask you one more question.
Having a 2-Class, 1 Factor (IRT model)
and assuming non invariant thresholds at each class and invariant loadings, do you have any guidance how to check if I have to assume a latent factor with equal variance at two classes or different variances at the two latent classes for my data, except AIC measure?
Assumming different variance means that I have one latent factor with the same meaning , -"severity"- but that there are different amounts of "severity" within each class?
Thanks alot
Bengt O. Muthen
posted on Thursday, January 24, 2013 - 10:09 am
I think class-varying factor variances is a good model - it is more parsimonious than having class-varying loadings.
To answer your question, I think you can test variance equality using a likelihood ratio chi-square test, so working with 2 times the loglikelihood difference.
posted on Friday, March 01, 2013 - 10:01 pm
Having a Factor Mixture models, 2-Class, 1 Factor (IRT model) , with measurement invariance and mean and variance of factor allowed to be different, for identification of the model I fix mean (0) and variance (1) of one class and freely estimate them at the other one. (The alternative scenario is to fix mean (0) and the first factor loading in one group to 1). Are these the only necessary coefficients that I have to fix in order the model to be identified?
Thanks alot
Linda K. Muthen
posted on Saturday, March 02, 2013 - 2:31 pm
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House of Commons
| Session 1997-98
Publications on the Internet
Summary Agendas and Orders of Business
|Summary Agendas
Here you can browse all the Summary Agendas for May 1998, arranged by date. You can also access all other Summary Agendas for the 1997-98 parliamentary session from here. If you are unsure of the date use the search engine. Clicking on an item will bring you the contents for that day, from which the full text can be retrieved.
|© Parliamentary copyright 1998
|Prepared 19 October 1998


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Does Mplus impute missing data/ role ...
Mplus Discussion
Missing Data Modeling
Calvin Croy
posted on Wednesday, October 05, 2005 - 12:19 pm
Could you please answer the following 3 questions?
I am running Mplus version 3.13 for a CFA analysis and specifying Type = Missing H1.
1. After reading the User's Guide and examining posts on this discussion site, it appears to me that Mplus does NOT actually impute ("fill in") missing data values when Type = Missing H1 is specified. Is this correct?
2. Based on what I've read, it sounds like Mplus uses the EM algorithm to estimate means, variances, and covariances (the sufficient statistics) using all the factor indicator variables. Then the estimated means, variances, and covariances resulting from EM are used to derive the model parameter estimates. Is this right? If not, could could you please clarify?
3. If one specifies Type = Imputation to read multiple datasets created by some multiple imputation process outside of Mplus (Example 12.13), how is EM used, if at all?
Thanks so much for answering posted questions! While I'm sure this is quite time consuming, your comments are valued greatly and keep us users on the right path.
posted on Saturday, October 08, 2005 - 2:15 pm
1. That's right. Standard ML estimation is used instead. The missing values can however be produced.
2. Not quite. EM is used in the ML estimation of the unrestricted mean vector and covariance matrix (the H1 model) - but these results are only used to be able to compute a chi-square test of the H0 model against H1. For the H0 parameter estimation, all available raw data are used in the computations using ML. EM is not used in the H0 computations.
3. EM is not used here. Type = Imputation is intended for use when another program has been first used to impute missing data (e.g. freeware such as NORM). These multiple data sets are then sent to Mplus and analyzed by Mplus, followed by an Mplus summary of the parameter estimates and the computation of the SEs.
Just to add to this - one can use EM to generate imputed data. In the EM algorithm the missing data are computed for each person. This type of output is however not currently available in Mplus.
Calvin Croy
posted on Thursday, October 13, 2005 - 11:51 am
Thank you so much for your clarification. It really helped!
ting hlin
posted on Thursday, November 20, 2008 - 3:35 am
is it true that Mplus 5.1 still does not have the facility to carry out multiple imputation (it can just processes imputed data)?
Linda K. Muthen
posted on Thursday, November 20, 2008 - 7:13 am
Yes, this is true.
Nicolas Müller
posted on Wednesday, March 16, 2011 - 10:57 am
Dear Dr. Muthen,
I'm using MPlus 6, and I'd like to understand how missing data on the outcomes are treated in latent growth models when using ML/MLR estimators.
1) I think I've read that missing data are considered MAR. Does it mean that, in a longitudinal context, missingness for one indicator in time can be conditional on the values of the same indicator at other time points?
2) Is there a technical article where the algorithm used in MPlus for MAR treatment of missing data within a ML estimation is explained? Or a general reference?
Thank you.
Bengt O. Muthen
posted on Wednesday, March 16, 2011 - 4:40 pm
1. Yes, missing data on an indicator at a certain time point is allowed to be influenced by the indicator value at other time points.
2. The Little & Rubin )2002) missing data book describes this and is a good general reference. A more applied book is Enders (2010).
Nicolas Müller
posted on Thursday, March 17, 2011 - 1:26 am
Thank you for these answers.
I also tried to estimate a multi-level model on my growth data, thus using a long format where each line is an individual observation and ANALYSIS=TWOLEVEL.
Does it mean that missing data in a twolevel model for growth are not considered MAR but MCAR because each line where the dependent variable is missing is removed?
If I get almost very close estimates when using a latent growth curve analysis or a multilevel analysis, can I say missing data are MCAR (because considering them MAR doesn't change the estimates)?.
Linda K. Muthen
posted on Thursday, March 17, 2011 - 8:53 am
The results should be identical if you set the models up correctly. You may be missing the fact that the residual variances need to be held equal over time for the Mplus model to be the same as the multilevel model. Both assume MAR.
Nicolas Müller
posted on Friday, March 18, 2011 - 8:04 am
Ok, your answer made me realize there was a glitch in my data transformation routine.
With the correct datasets, the estimates are now completely identical, using the latent growth or the multilevel specification.
Thank you very much.
Nicolas Müller
posted on Monday, March 28, 2011 - 2:11 am
There is still something I don't get.
I'm fitting the same model with a latent growth curve or a multilevel specification, and I get exactly the same results.
I don't understand how it is possible, knowing that some of the time-varying covariates have been imputed, regardless if the individual was still followed or not.
In the multilevel spec, with a long data format, it has no consequences, because the lines where the individual was not in the study are deleted.
But in the wide format used by the latent growth specification, these imputations are still in the data, so I thought they should be impacting the estimation... which is not the case.
I hope I made myself clear. Do you have an explanation for this behaviour?
I could send you my models if necessary.
Linda K. Muthen
posted on Monday, March 28, 2011 - 10:16 am
In Mplus the model is estimated conditioned on the covariates. Cases with missing data on observed exogenous variables are deleted from the analysis as they are in HLM. With dependent variables, values are not imputed. All available information is used as in HLM.
posted on Wednesday, August 10, 2011 - 7:07 am
Dear Linda and Bengt,
I am running a SEM with 5 imputed data sets for missing values within PASW. I also created the implist.dat where the five datasets are identified.
I used the following specification:
FILE IS Implist.dat;
NAMES ARE Imputation_ VPCode country RiskP_M3 OE_M6 Inten_M5 SE_M6 Plan_M2
Plan_M6 CHBdiet9 ;
USEVARIABLES ARE RiskP_M3
OE_M6 Inten_M5 SE_M6 Plan_M2
Plan_M6 CHBdiet9;
TYPE is Imputation;
Inten_M5 on RiskP_M3 OE_M6 SE_M6 CHBdiet9 ;
Plan_M2 on Inten_M5 ;
Plan_M6 on Plan_M2;
OUTPUT: tech1; standardized;
Nevertheless i`ve got this error message:
*** ERROR in ANALYSIS command
Unrecognized setting for TYPE option:
What did I wrong? How can I fix the problem? Many Thanks in advance.
Linda K. Muthen
posted on Wednesday, August 10, 2011 - 8:28 am
TYPE+IMPUTATION; goes in the DATA command not the ANALYSIS command.
posted on Tuesday, April 03, 2012 - 1:45 pm
Hi Dr. Muthen,
I am attempting to create some imputed datasets. I have done this before more than once. However, at this time, I keep getting the following message with no other explanation:
I cannot figure out what the issue is. Any insight into what this messege means and how to rectify it?
Linda K. Muthen
posted on Tuesday, April 03, 2012 - 4:14 pm
Please send the output and your license number to
posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2012 - 1:11 pm
I have a question about #6 of the technote7:
"A basic identifiability requirement for the imputa- tion model is that for (A) each variable in the imputation the number of observations should be at least as many as the number of (B) variables in the imputation model."
I don't understand the difference between the variables I marked with (A) and (B). Does (A) refer to the variables in the usevariables list, and (B) to the variables in the "impute" list?
posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2012 - 1:15 pm
(To clarify, in my example, I have 6 variables I use to help impute missing values on one variable, and wonder how much % may be missing to identify the imputation. N=800)
usevariables=x1 x2 x3 x4 x5 x6;
Impute = x0;
SAVE = impute_M*.dat;
type = basic;
Tihomir Asparouhov
posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2012 - 2:36 pm
In your example X0 should have at least 7 non-missing values since there are 7 parameters in the imputation model.
posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2012 - 3:24 pm
So in theory, 793 values out of 800 could be missing? That doesn't sound like something I could report in a paper ;)
We have a large number of missing values on one crucial covariate, which MPLUS cannot handle in a multilevel analysis if we just add it as
into the model (non-convergence).
And since MPLUS does listwise deletion for missing time-varying covariates in Multilevel Models (even if only 1 measurement point misses - why is that?), we were thinking to impute. Imputation converges, but we are not sure if imputation with 40% missing is feasible.
Thank you for your insight
Linda K. Muthen
posted on Wednesday, June 20, 2012 - 10:45 am
Please send the output that shows the problem and your license number to
Keke Hiller
posted on Monday, November 19, 2012 - 1:54 am
Dear Dr. Muthen,
I am using MPlus Vers6 & survey data of three waves in a panel design, having solely the dependent variable at time point 3.
My sample population is 207 at time point 1 (T1), then reduced to 176 individuals at time point 2 (T2) and finally reduced to 137 at time point 3 (T3).
The calculations, however, are performed with N=176. Thus, I assume the missing data at T3 is imputed, right?
Is there a critical proportion of missing data where imputation is problematic? Do you know any paper that discusses this topic?
Thank you in advance!
Linda K. Muthen
posted on Monday, November 19, 2012 - 10:37 am
In Mplus, the default is to estimate the model using all available information. It does not impute values in this case. See the Little and Rubin and Enders books in the user's guide's reference list.
Keke Hiller
posted on Monday, November 19, 2012 - 11:20 am
Thank you for the fast reply. I will look the topic up in the book you mentioned.
Nevertheless, I am wondering that if there is no imputation done in this case, why does MPlus gives me N=176 as sample population? (and not 137 instead)
How would I report my sample size in my paper?
Thank you so much for your help!
Linda K. Muthen
posted on Monday, November 19, 2012 - 12:06 pm
All available information from the full sample is used in the model estimation so the sample size is the full sample. You report what is given in the output.
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Saturday just after 9 a.m., a sudden gust of wind that one resident estimated at 60 mph toppled a tree across East River Road, blocking the roadway. Grand Island Fire Co. personnel and the Grand Island Police Department blocked traffic while removal operations took place. (photo by Larry Austin)


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Referee's dubious call puts damper on United States' two goal comeback against Slovenia.
Follow the 2010 World Cup with the men's and women's UCSB soccer programs all tournament long on UCSBgauchos.com. "South Africa to Santa Barbara: The Cup is Coming" will provide daily commentary on the day's biggest storylines, featuring video interviews with Gaucho soccer players and men's head coach, Tim Vom Steeg.
To view previous entries click here.
A month ago, umpire Jim Joyce became America's goat when his missed call at first base cost Detroit pitcher Armando Gallaraga a perfect game.
Now, the American public has a new official to wag its finger at: Koman Coulibaly.
United States midfielder Maurice Edu kicked in a would-be game winner, but a dubious whistle by Coulibaly called it back, erasing what would have been a dream victory by the Yanks after trailing Slovenia by a pair of goals at halftime.
U.S. fans would have been satisfied with the 2-2 draw after Landon Donovan and Michael Bradley battled to net goals in the second half, but it will be Coulibaly's gaffe which most will remember.
"[Coulibaly] seemed to be blowing his whistle early every time there was contact in the box," said UC Santa Barbara men's head soccer coach Tim Vom Steeg. "It happened two or three times in the match. Unfortunately this time, it cost us a goal on what was a beautiful finish."
It could have gone down as the greatest comeback in U.S. soccer history if it weren't for the whistle. Donovan whipped in a free kick from the edge of the penalty area as players wrestled for position at the goalmouth. While Aleksandar Radosavlkjevic held Bradley in a bear hug, Edu spun away from his defender, stepping into the six before placing the ball past the keeper with his left foot.
But it was all for naught.
The U.S. was grateful to be in position to win in the final moments considering the way it started out.
Valter Birsa found space behind the U.S. midfielders in the 13th minute, casually slotting home Slovenia's first goal in front of a flat-footed defense. When Zlatan Ljubijankic put the Green Dragons up by a pair just minutes before halftime, the U.S. seemed to be in dire straights.
"It was shocking how we started," said Vom Steeg, "it was very surprising to see that we didn't have the energy."
The U.S. has already been forced to come back twice in this tournament, securing the goals required to salvage a point in each match. If they are to advance to the next stage, however, falling behind to Algeria early is not ideal.
The U.S. (2 points) can advance automatically with a win after the Desert Foxes (1 point) forced a 0-0 tie with England (2 points), but Americans must be on heightened alert considering how they have played as the favorite. The fact that Algeria has the possibility of moving on with a win over the Americans, U.S. coach Bob Bradley must create a starting lineup that will not accept complacency in the early going.
The Yanks can also move on with a tie if Slovenia (4 points) and England were to draw, as long as the Three Lions do not outscore the U.S. by two or more goals.
With one match remaining in Group C, no team has secured its spot in the Round of 16.
And there's one person to thank: Koman Coulibaly.
Group C Standings
Slovenia 1-1-0, 4 pts
United States 0-2-0, 2 pts
England 0-2-0, 2 pts
Algeria 0-1-1, 1 pt
Vom Steeg will have plenty of time to asses the referees during the UCSB soccer program's run towards the 2010 College Cup, being hosted by UCSB on Dec. 10-12 at Meredith Field at Harder Stadium. Season tickets start at just $75 and include one ticket to all home men and women's regular season games and one College Cup All Session ticket. UCSB staff and faculty can purchase their season tickets for a reduced rate of $50.
For all videos from South Africa to Santa Barbara: The Cup is Coming , click here.


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One thing I think we can both agree on, though, is that the way he edited that title was just about perfect. Some people probably would have just erased the old title, replaced it altogether with the new, updated title, and called it a day, but not Rob. He knew that having both phrases in the title was the key to making the whole thing work. He just has this knack for knowing what sounds good and what doesn't, I guess. You guys are lucky to have him on board.
What i really wanted was to be able to make it say:Conan to Replace Leno in 2009!!!! (UPDATE: Conan to Replace Leno in 2010!!!! (UPDATE: Conan to Replace Lopez in 2010!!!!))
But it was too long.
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One of the most significant listings in the American West, West Creek Ranch, is a spectacularly diverse private land and estate property boasting one of the finest residences and land parcels in the world. Located in Mesa County, Colorado (approx. 6,412 acres) and in Grand County, Utah (approx. 507 acres), the many expanses of West Creek Ranch include four scenic and verdant parcels unlike any other in the West.
The expansive property encompasses unique land formations including the soaring precambrian rock cliff walls of Unaweep Canyon, and expansive high plateau country that contains a stunning log cabin retreat and helipad, with magnificent views of the La Sal Mountains of Utah. In total, the residential structures of West Creek Ranch (including the main residence, guest house, stables, and Sky Mesa cabin) contain a total of 14 bedrooms, 12 full baths, and 2 half baths.
On-ranch treasures include a bear and mountain lion habitat, real dinosaur footprints, and the historic ruins of Driggs Mansion. The main residence features exquisite finishes and craftsmanship throughout more than 22,000 square feet of indoor living space that includes eight bedrooms and eight bathrooms on four levels, an 800-pound capacity elevator servicing all four levels, a great room, formal dining room, breakfast room, chef's kitchen, spacious study with panoramic views, art studio, theater room, game room, gym, staff quarters, pool and spa, four water fountains, six fireplaces, a two-level circular stone library, interior marble archways and columns, modern and efficient geo-thermal heating and cooling, an emergency power generator, a five-car garage, a helipad, and all furnishings. Also included are irrigated equestrian and bison pastures, fishing ponds, a grass airstrip and hangar, helipad, stables, astronomical observatory, and trout stream.
West Creek Ranch is conveniently accessed by nearby Grand Junction Regional Airport and is located in close proximity to Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa, which affords the owner access to dining, spa, pools and other amenities of a resort voted in 2016 by Travel + Leisure readers as the "Best in the West", and by Condé Nast Traveler as the #1 Best Resort in Colorado and #3 Best Resort in the U.S.
The estate, and the four distinct land parcels included in the sale, are a collection of some of the most enduring and treasured natural geological wonders in the canyonlands of the American West, which, surrounded by natural open space, will be preserved for years to come.
West Creek Ranch is an iconic and majestic treasure to be explored and discovered.


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103,000 Children Receive Record Grant From SCC
SCC Distributes Record Amount in 2013
View photos in the gallery "SCC 2013 Grant Distribution."
With Governor Maggie Hassan and Mayor Ted Gatsas serving as holiday helpers, New Hampshire Motor Speedway and the New Hampshire Chapter of the Speedway Children's Charities distributed nearly a quarter million dollars to 56 non-profit organizations throughout New England during the fourth annual grant distribution presentation at the Palace Theatre on Thursday.
The grand total of $243,838, which will benefit over 103,000 children in the Northeast, is the largest one-year total since the SCC N.H. Chapter began this holiday tradition back in 2010. In four years, NHMS and the SCC have donated nearly $700,000, supporting nearly 190,000 children in the region.
"This is a really special day," said Cheryl LaPrade, director of the SCC's New Hampshire Chapter. "Every single day this is what we work for. We are blessed to have such and impactful organizations across New England helping kids in need."
This year's event, which welcomed more than 150 representatives from the 56 organizations was held at the historic Palace Theatre, which first opened its doors in 1915. In an area that once had 22 theatres, the nearly 100-year-old playhouse is the only that remains. And with its current production of "A Christmas Carol" gracing the stage daily, it was an ideal setting.
"This is what the holiday season is all about, and it makes me very proud to stand here today with an opportunity to give something back," said Jerry Gappens, executive vice president and general manager of the speedway. "We are very thankful for what you do to impact the lives of others every day."
Both Hassan and Gatsas stressed the importance of what this money will do for the Granite State as a whole and the Queen City, respectively.
"It's an honor for me to be here this afternoon," said Hassan. "The speedway truly is a corporate citizen in New Hampshire, in every sense of the word. The Speedway Children's Charities is a great example of our tradition in New Hampshire of caring for each other."
"The main essential ingredient (of SCC) is how do we help kids? And that's so important," said Gatsas, who noted that a total of nine non-profit programs in the Manchester area received checks. "When you can go out and say $240,000 is going into the region to help children; that is ever-so important."
Since 1982, the eight SCC chapters across the country have raised over $40.9 million dollars.
Money raised through the New Hampshire Chapter includes events such as the "One for the Kids" Golf Tournament, NASCAR Champions Breakfast, Red Bucket Brigade (July and September), Driver Memorabilia Auction, Lobster Bake, Motorcycle Appreciation Ride, Track Walks and the Safe Kids 500, as well as the 2013 Camping World RV Sales 301 and SYLVANIA 300 NASCAR weekends. The 56 non-profit organizations include:
The Avielle Foundation, Newtown
Ben's Lighthouse, Newtown
Camp Sunshine at Sebago Lake, Inc., Casco
The Center for Grieving Children, Portland
Sweetser, Saco
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell, Inc., Lowell
Boys & Girls Club of Metro West, Inc., Marlborough
Family Service, Inc., Lawrence
Groundwork Lawrence, Inc., Lawrence
Merrimack Valley Food Bank, Inc., Lowell
Roca, Inc., Chelsea
SHINE Initiative, Leominster
Valley Resident for Improvement, Inc., Worcester
New Hampshire
Boys & Girls Club of Derry, Derry
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Manchester, Inc., Manchester
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western New Hampshire, Keene
Boys & Girls Club of the Lakes Region, Laconia
Boys & Girls Club of Manchester, Manchester
Boys & Girls Club of Nashua, Nashua
Boys & Girls Club of Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth
Boys & Girls Club of Salem, Salem
Boys & Girls Club of Souhegan Valley, Milford
Capital Region Food Program, Concord
Child and Family Services of New Hampshire, Manchester
Children's Dyslexia Centers, Inc., Nashua
Children's Hopsital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (MHMH), Lebanon
The Children's Museum of New Hampshire, Dover
The Children's Place and Parent Education Center, Concord
Circle Program, Plymouth
Concord Boys & Girls Club, Concord
Concord Community Music School, Concord
Concord Hospital Trust, Concord
Copper Cannon Corporation, Franconia
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of New Hampshire, Inc., Manchester
David's House, Lebanon
Easter Seals New Hampshire, Inc., Manchester
Granite State Children's Alliance (Merrimack County Advocacy Center), Nashua
Injury Prevention Center, Lebanon
Kismet Rock Foundation, North Conway
Lakes Region Community Services Council, Laconia
Mary And John Elliot Charitable Foundation, Manchester
McAulliffe-Shepard Discovery Center Corporation, Concord
Muscular Dystrophy Association, Inc., Bedford
New Generation, Inc., Greenland
New Hampshire Aviation Historical Society, Londonderry
New Hampshire Catholic Charities, Manchester
New Hampshire's Children's Trust, Inc., Concord
Tilton-Northfield Recreation Council, Northfield
Tiny Twisters Child Care Center, Franklin
University of New Hampshire, Durham
UpReach Therapeutic Riding Center, Goffstown
Webster House, Manchester
YMCA of Greater Manchester, Manchester
YMCA of Nashua, Merrimack
Boys & Girls Club of Brattleboro, Brattleboro
Children's Literacy Foundation, Waterbury Center


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WHAT: ARM will demonstrate its innovative range of complementary AMBA® protocol-based fabric and verification IP solutions for the design and analysis of complex system-on-chip (SoC) at its annual Developers' Conference.
Demos will highlight how ARM Adaptive Verification IP (AVIP) – an innovative technology for extracting and applying traffic profile information to verify the performance of an entire SoC – can be used with ARM Fabric IP for AMBA protocol-based SoC platform exploration, performance and functional verification.
Visitors will be able to see how ARM AVIP can be used for architecture optimization and functional verification in the context of the development of an AMBA 3 AXI™ protocol-based networking SoC.
Optimization of the SoC backplane architecture is demonstrated by simulating the Fabric RTL subsystem with Adaptive Verification components; AVIP master and slave components are used as statistical traffic generators in lieu of real IP, while AVIP Monitors profile the system traffic and analyze performance. Fast and comprehensive functional verification of an AXI slave interface is also demonstrated using AVIP profiled constrained random generation capability in conjunction with ARM's defined AXI protocol checker and functional coverage points.
The AVIP demo also gives visitors the opportunity to view in simulation advanced ARM Fabric PrimeCells® such as the PrimeCell interconnect and dynamic and static memory controllers, and to see how a complex AMBA 3 AXI protocol-based system can be quickly assembled in AMBA Designer.
WHEN: Tuesday - Thursday, October 7-9, 2008
WHERE: ARM Developers Conference
Santa Clara Convention Center, Santa Clara, Calif., USA
Exhibition Hall; Fabric Demo Pod; #513
HOW: For free press and analyst registration, please visit: http://www.rtcgroup.com/arm/2008/registration/press-registration.php
WHO: ARM designs the technology that lies at the heart of advanced digital products, from wireless, networking and consumer entertainment solutions to imaging, automotive, security and storage devices. ARM's comprehensive product offering includes 32-bit RISC microprocessors, graphics processors, enabling software, cell libraries, embedded memories, high-speed connectivity products, peripherals and development tools. Combined with comprehensive design services, training, support and maintenance, and the company's broad Partner community, they provide a total system solution that offers a fast, reliable path to market for leading electronics companies. More information on ARM is available at http://www.arm.com.
ARM and AMBA are a registered trademark of ARM Limited. All other brands or product names are the property of their respective holders. "ARM" is used to represent ARM Holdings plc; its operating company ARM Limited; and the regional subsidiaries ARM, Inc.; ARM KK; ARM Korea Ltd.; ARM Taiwan Limited; ARM France SAS; ARM Consulting (Shanghai) Co. Ltd.; ARM Belgium N.V.; AXYS Design Automation Inc.; ARM Germany GmbH; ARM Embedded Technologies Pvt. Ltd.; and ARM Norway, AS.


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Real-World Review
2014 Mazda3 Grand Touring Hatchback: Real World Review
The Mazda3 has been redesigned for the 2014 model year, and we recently had a chance to spend some time in an upscale Grand Touring version of the all-new model. Not only were we highly impressed with the 2014 Mazda3, we happen to think it's the best compact car you can buy today. Here's why.
Attractive Inside and Out
If you're like us, you'll be impressed with the latest Mazda3 before you ever get behind the wheel. The compact car boasts seriously attractive lines, regardless of whether you choose the hatchback -- like our test car -- or the sedan. In fact, we think the Mazda3 is the best-looking car in its class, which is a big deal, since the compact-car segment is hardly known for handsome styling or enticing design.
It's the same deal inside the 2014 Mazda3. While the interior styling isn't as attractive as the compact car's exterior, the Mazda3's switches and knobs are well-positioned and easy to reach. One tester, Tommy, also noted that several of the Mazda3's controls -- including the center-stack volume knob and the infotainment system controller -- felt especially expensive and high-quality when touched.
On the Road
While the Mazda3 certainly boasts a handsome interior and exterior, we especially enjoyed getting the small car on the road. There are two reasons for that: one, its handling. And two, its muscular engine.
Handling has always been a strong suit of the Mazda3. One tester, Ben, notes that the car is "extremely well-balanced," suggesting that you can always tell exactly where the line is between grip and no grip. That's high praise for a compact car -- praise usually directed at sporty vehicles rather than front-wheel-drive, economy-focused cars such as the Mazda3. Our website editor, Brian, agreed, noting that the handling is engaging and the steering feel is especially direct -- two qualities not normally associated with compact cars.
We're even more impressed with the Mazda3's engine. While we're used to excellent handling from Mazda, we were surprised by the powerful 184-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, which actually makes the small car feel sports-car fast. That's in contrast to the Mazda3's standard 2.0-liter engine, which we'd describe as merely adequate, though perfect for shoppers who care more about fuel economy than performance. In the words of staffer Ben: "What a difference this engine makes over the 2.0."
Our only problem with this engine: fuel economy. Unfortunately unavailable with a manual transmission, it's rated at 27 miles per gallon in the city and 37 mpg on the highway with the standard automatic. If your're anything like us, you'll often find yourself punching it a bit more than you'd like and seeing a figure closer to our observed 28 mpg. The base-level engine, which can reach 30 mpg city/40 mpg hwy, is certainly the one for shoppers interested in conserving fuel.
Featuring Features
We remain especially impressed with the Mazda3 for its almost ridiculous amount of standard and optional features. Some features are especially luxurious, such as the adaptive bi-xenon headlights or the rain-sensing wipers. But a few are downright opulent, including available adaptive cruise control and a forward-collision warning system that comes with automatic braking. Sure, many of these are optional extras, but the simple fact that they exist at all in a compact car such as the Mazda3 is mind-blowing.
The problem, of course, is that these features tend to drive up the Mazda3's price, as you might expect. As equipped, our test car came to nearly $30,000, and that's a lot of money for a compact car, even when it's as good as the Mazda3. Testers Ben and Dwight both mentioned that they could do without the Mazda3's Technology package, losing some of the cool features but keeping the price closer to $26,000 before taxes.
Our Take
In the end, it's hard to hate the 2014 Mazda3. Handsome styling, a high-quality interior and excellent road manners combine to make it one of the best cars in its segment. It's pushed to the top by its wide range of features and multiple excellent powertrains. No matter what you're interested in, it's hard to go wrong with the latest Mazda3.


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Views: 369
I agree. While not "harmful", per se, I would argue that this sort of irrationality and magical fairytale thinking negatively affects the quality of life of those who believe it, and in turn radiates out towards the rest of us. You've heard about Harrisburg's mayor calling for a prayer event to fix the budget - it would be no different if she was Wiccan and called for the Wiccan equivalent of a prayer (I don't know a terrible lot about Wicca, so forgive me for not knowing what the equivalent is called). It's not actually solving the problem, so yes, it is harmful to the people it affects.
Anybody who believes in these sorts of irrational things is somehow negatively affecting the world. When one believes irrational things, one accordingly acts irrationally, and our actions affect each other.
I am an ex-pagan and I have a boyfriend who is still pagan. I started that relationship before I became atheist. I generally am turned off by paganism, although some pagan-leaning people have made the initiative to befriend me and they turned out to be allright.
We tend to give paganism a free pass b/c it is not antisexual, not antigay, more concerned with environment. (Although few are antigay, I viewed some rituals as heterosexist with their focus on god and goddess, male and female, etc. It was more like they thought homosexuality was inconsequential.)
I may be a little less angry about it than I was three years ago when I was shunned by my coven due to a conflict with a member who was more popular than me. When I finally met other ex-pagans I found that many had similar experiences.
Pagans proselytize the same as Christians. It's the usual "well our religion is good so it's different if we assume everyone at the party is pagan and talk about how great the goddess is". I've been told to go sit in the kitchen b/c I didn't want to take part in some pagan ritual that someone decided to do at a party and assumed everyone would just love. Some pagans kiss up to atheists, while others have pretty much the same narrative as Christians about atheists thinking they know everything, etc. Pagans who bash Christianity's "stupid beliefs" also annoy me because of their hypocrisy.
I would call paganism/wicca (Jeez, they can't even agree on a name) a "disorganized religion". Organized and disorganized religions both have their sets of problems. Hinduism also fits into this category. I was reading an article about Hinduism that was saying it is more prone to charlatans and cults b/c of its lack of centralization. It is the same, or even more so, with paganism. Anyone who has a magnetic personality can form their own religious clique and manipulate others, especially with the tendency to belief in psychic and supernatural powers. It can be just a high-school clique magnified (cliques become more cliquish when they have a huge process for membership) or it can be closer to an actual cult, and I have known someone who disappeared into a cult.
The belief in harming none is fine. There are other beliefs that have the usual victim-blaming tendency that is common in all religions. The law of three is that if you do something bad, you will get it back threefold. (Think mathematically about the effect this would have on the world!) So according to the law of three, when something bad happens to you, you must have earned it. People do end up absorbing attitudes like this and judging people when they are unfortunate, or blaming themselves.
There are also beliefs that you can change things just by concentrating, doing spells, etc and this is much like prayer. In particular, the belief that just paying attention to the environment will heal it gives a false sense of security and a sense that they don't have to do anything else.
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Hey kids!
Ever need a piece of information from your data in your BP? Maybe for a service or a choice statement to determine your BP Path?
We just updated our Mapping and Translation wiki with a new entry on how to take data from your input file and update it to process data. Nothing fancy, just your basic "How To" entry. This is only for those Sterling B2B Integrator mappers. This functionality is not available in our Gentran products.
Here is the URL:
While you are there, check out some of the other entries we have there.
The Masked Mapper Assistant!


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A place for ALL moms that blog about all aspects of LIFE can follow eachother...
Members: 8
Latest Activity: May 22, 2013
This group does not have any discussions yet.
Taking my baby to get an MRI:
Today's my 29th birthday!!! Can I get some more followers as a birthday present?
It's hard to raise kids with two religions.
Everything I ever wanted:
I almost lost my husband once.
Motherhood is lonely:
Please come show me some love!
The Best Laid Plans...
Now that GFC is down and I've lost all my followers, I've joined Linky Followers like many of you have. I would love it if you could follow my blog as a little "birthday present" to me! Leave me a comment if you followed me and I promise I'll return the favor.
I officially made the switch from Blogger to WordPress and got a "blog makeover!" Please stop by and let me know what you think!


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I'm all for going out and doing something special for Valentine's Day but you know what the best part is usually? Coming back home. Even if you happen to be in the paradise (aka Paris) and have the opportunity to have an absolutely beautiful photo op by the Eiffel Tower like this couple here, it's still just as magical, if not more, to come home and toast to each other in the comfort of your Parisian apartment. And it couldn't look at chicer amid the comforts of home than in these pics by Greg Finck. Complete w champagne and macarons, this gallery is giving us all sorts of new Valentine-style dreams for next year.
From Greg Finck... Cici and Matt both live in Singapore and had come all the way to France to celebrate their wedding anniversary. For the shoot, we organized a session in the pure Parisian quintessence. We started the session with Cici and Matt cozying up on the sofa of their Parisian apartment, and sipping some of the finest Champagne while eating macarons. Then, we went for a stroll in the streets of the 7th district, sat on a terrace in a cafe, and ended below the Eiffel Tower with the beautiful Parisian backlight.


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Joel Osteen hoaxer comes out of shadows
Blasts megapastor for flashing 'that big, fat grin on TV'
A Minneapolis man responsible for an elaborate online hoax purporting pastor Joel Osteen had abandoned his Christian faith is now stepping out of the cybershadows to further what he calls a "media campaign" against the preacher.
"I am the person who created the Joel Osteen 'resigns' hoax that resulted in dozens of media stories, TV segments, a million hits in one day on the hoaxed sites alone, 500 frantic phone calls to the Lakewood Church and managed to cause Joel to smile even bigger than usual," says Justin Tribble, a 31-year-old freelance writer.
"I did it because I wanted to get this guy's attention and get him to wake up," he continued.
In a brand-new, personal message to Osteen, Tribble said: "It's time to get real, Joel. It's time to put the 'feel good,' 'prosperity gospel' message and all the platitudes and cliches aside for a second and get serious about real issues. You should be held to a higher standard – but nobody is holding you to that standard.
"I am begging of you, start talking about the real issues in this world and take a good look at yourself in the mirror. Get serious. Take some risks. Get out of the insulated Lakewood social circle full of sycophants who agree with you on everything. I'm not seeing you do much of anything other than flash that big, fat grin on TV."
Believe it or not, the Bible does NOT say you're meant to float on a cloud, doing nothing but playing a harp forever. Your destiny is far greater and more glorious. Find out why God REALLY created you. Get details in the autographed bestseller, "The Divine Secret: The Awesome and Untold Truth About Your Phenomenal Destiny."
Tribble describes his effort not as a hoax, but rather a "media campaign."
"[It was] a way to get through and have a dialogue with someone who is essentially inaccessible," he told ABC News. "I didn't want to hurt the guy, didn't want to defame him. … I'm actually a big fan of Joel Osteen. I like him. I listen to him. I enjoy his sermons."
Osteen told the network his attention was grabbed by the false claims against him.
"A friend called and said people are calling from South Africa and Australia, and I thought. 'This is a big deal,' said the pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston, who leads some 7 million faithful worldwide.
Osteen, who has led his church since 1999, is, in reality, not quitting, despite several phony websites, news stories and even a YouTube video declaring otherwise.
"All is well. I still have my faith. Nothing has changed. The building was full on Sunday a few days ago," Osteen told ABC.
A statement attributed to Osteen on the hoax site reads:
As many of you may know, and may have heard in the news recently, many of my sermons have deviated from traditional Christian doctrine. I have been accused of altering the 'message' to fit my own doctrine and dogma. Others have accused me of preaching 'feel good Christianity'. I have also been accused of profiting greatly from my ministry, with my books and television deals.
Many of their criticisms are legitimate.
What they don't know is that deep down in my heart, for a number of years now, I have been questioning the faith, Christianity and whether Jesus Christ is really my, or anyone's, 'savior'.
I believe now that the Bible is a fallible, flawed, highly inconsistent history book that has been altered hundreds of times. There is zero evidence the Bible is the holy word of God. In fact, there is zero evidence "God" even exists.
No God worth believing in is going to send you to Hell for not believing in him. Not even the worst sinner and scum of the Earth deserves eternal torment in Hell. In fact, God is more likely to congratulate you upon entering Heaven for doubting, questioning and not believing the religionists and their flimsy facts, demands of blind faith and lack of hard evidence.
The fraudulent quote went on to make Osteen sound like an anti-Obama activist and pro-environment champion, saying, "What we have to focus on now that I've left the faith are the immediate issues at hand that affect us in the real world. The destruction of our environment by multinational corporations, the poisoning of our food and water, the toxic fluoride they have been putting in our water for 50 years, the toxic GMO foods that the Monsanto corporation is responsible for, Obama's many destructive policies and his administration's attempt to dismantle the 2nd Amendment. These issues will be what I will begin to focus on, so long as the media does not completely shut me out."
There are even fake news images from the Drudge Report, CBN, Yahoo News, and one from CNN with the headline, "Pastor of mega church resigns, rejects Christ," with a subhead, "Cites lack of faith, pledges 'new church.'"


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NANJING, China, Nov. 2 (UPI) -- Local favorite Zhang Shuai won in three sets Saturday and will go against Ayumi Morita in the finals of the WTA's 125K series Nanjing Ladies Open.
Zhang, seeded third, defeated No. 2-seed Yanina Wickmayer 1-6, 6-4, 6-4. After a first set in which Zhang won just 10 points -- about one-quarter of the points -- and didn't manage a break point, Zhang piled up three breaks in the second set and two more in the third.
Morita, the No. 4 seed, advanced over qualifier Jarmila Gajdosova 7-6 (8-6), 6-2 by winning more the 60 percent of the points on serve and nearly half -- 38-of-79 -- when Gajdosova served.
After the tight first set, Morita had three second-set breaks in earning her first WTA finals berth in more than five years. Sunday will mark her third championship match. She lost tries in 2007 and 2008.
Zhang appeared in her first WTA title match in September and won the Guangzhou International Women's Open, also in China.
Morita owns a 2-1 career edge over Zhang, with all the matches coming in 2011.
Sunday's tournament champion will take home $20,000 with the runner-up earning $11,000. Wickmayer and Gajdosova each collected $6,000 as semifinalists.


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Cars of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
Editor's Note : Article re-published in honor of the Indy 500 this weekend.
One of our destinations on the Chrysler Game On Road Trip was Indianapolis, and specifically the Motor Speedway. So after an adventurous trip in the snow, we arrived at the "Racing Capital of the World" to check out some race cars. Below you'll find the majority of vehicles that await you if you ever make it out to Indy, to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum. Its quite the collection :


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Work on a $28 million plan to beautify part of the Onehunga foreshore starts today after a Maori blessing and celebration at the Manukau Cruising Club.
Over the next two years, 6.8ha of parkland will be created through reclamation, west of the SH20 motorway.
Rocky headlands, beaches, a new boat ramp, carpark and picnic areas will be formed and a cycle bridge built to link Onehunga Bay Reserve.
NZ Transport Agency is putting in $18 million and Maungakiekie-Tamaki Local Board $10 million.
Board chairwoman Leila Boyle said the result would make Onehunga a better place to live.
Manukau Harbour Restoration Society chairman Jim Jackson said the project was the first of a long-term redevelopment programme.
"It is the turning point in getting greater recognition of New Zealand's second-largest harbour."
The project does not involve removal of transmission lines and pylons.
Iwi and public health officers were worried about people bathing in a polluted bay. Auckland Council's stormwater team is testing drains discharging into the bay for sewage pollution due to cross connections, leaking waste pipes or waste water overflows.
One drain was cleaned up in April but a second stormwater pipe which serves a bigger area is taking more time to pinpoint all sources of contamination.


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Home | Forum | Chat | Tours | Articles | Pictures | News | Tools | History | Tourism | Search
BD in SL, 2005
Complete coverage of the Bangladesh national team tour of Sri Lanka
Current | Latest News |
Match Highlights | Series Preview
back to top
September 4, Bangladesh vs. Sri Lanka, 3rd ODI
Sri Lanka 106-4 beat Bangladesh 108 by six wickets (D/L
After a bright start, Bangladesh collapses to 108 all out at the end
of 38.2 overs in a rain reduced over (48) match. Another downpour early
on during the SL innings sets them a target to score 106 in 46 overs
which they easily achieved with the loss of four wickets.
Match Thread | Chat
September 2, Bangladesh vs. Sri Lanka, 2nd ODI
Sri Lanka won by 75 runs
Sri Lanka rode on Upul Tharanga's maiden century
to clinch a one-day series against Bangladesh with a 75-run victory in
the second of the 3-ODI series. Bangladesh, who lost the opening game of
the three-match series by 88 runs on Wednesday, finished at 220-6 to
concede the series to Sri Lanka. Opener Shahriar Nafees top-scored with
51, while skipper Habibul Bashar (41 not out) and super-sub Tushar Imran
(31) put on 71 for the sixth wicket but their efforts were not enough to
stop Sri Lanka.
Match Thread | Chat
August 31, Bangladesh vs. Sri Lanka, 1st ODI
Match Result: Sri Lanka (269/9) beat Bangladesh (181/9) by 88
Match Thread | Chat
Match Reports:
SL Innings
Sri Lanka was made to bat first by Habibul Bashar and the home team posted
a respectable 270, aided in no small part by an ordinary day in the field
from Bangladesh. Syed Rasel had a memorable debut, capturing two wickets
and bowling tidily in general. But the Bangladeshi top order failed once
again and the match was practically over before the halfway mark of Bangladesh
innings. Khaled Mashud batted out the rest of the overs with tailenders
only to delay the obvious.
Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka Cricket XI, Morutawa
Sri Lanka Cricket XI (239/0, 11 overs) defeats Bangladesh (235/8,
50 overs)
Sri Lanka Cricket XI handed a nasty 10 wicket defeat to the visitors.
Batting first, Bangladesh scored 235 for the loss of 8 wickets. Opener Rajin
Saleh scored 53. In return the Lankans overhauled the Bangladesh total in
just 36.1 overs with both openers scoring fluent centuries (DA Gunawardene,
111* and WU Tharanga, 104*).
Bangladesh is embarking on a 25-day, 2-Test and 3-ODI tour of Sri Lanka
this September.
Bangladesh will leave August 26 and will play the three ODIs and two
Sri Lanka Cricket recently announced the schedule for this tour. The
tour begins with three One-Day Internationals followed by two Tests. All
matches are to be played at various stadiums in Colombo.
Random tour picture
Share your thoughts with other fans discussing the impending tour.
Join the Sri Lanka tour topic.
"We have to be able to face two things; counter the swing bowling
of Chaminda Vaas ... and we have to handle champion off-spinner Muttiah
- Coach Dav Whatmore
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Give your bedroom a lush appearance with this platform bed. The piece comes in white and sable-colored upholstery and features a padded panel headboard as well as 17" footboard. Plus, the wood feet add an earthy quality to the overall look. Blend simplicity with luxury by adding this low-profile bed in your bedroom decor. This bed is available in full, queen, king, and California king sizes.
The Leather King Euro Bed by Fashion Bed Group at Darvin Furniture in the Orland Park, Chicago, IL area. Product availability may vary. Contact us for the most current availability on this product.
Adorn your bedroom with lush, yet, simplistic style by adding the leather collection to your decor. The attractive pieces come in upholstered covering and feature padded headboards as well as wood feet, which provide an earthy quality. You can have the perfect blend of luxury and casualness with the addition of the leather collection in your bedroom decor.
The Leather collection is a great option if you are looking for Casegoods and Upholstery in the Orland Park, Chicago, IL area.
Browse other items in the Leather collection from Darvin Furniture in the Orland Park, Chicago, IL area.
This item has been tagged as: Bed, Bedroom Furniture, Twin Size Bed, Full Size Bed, Queen Size Bed, King Size Bed, California King Size Bed, Bookcase Bed, Book Case Bed, Canopy Bed, Bed with Canopy, Captain's Bed, Daybed, Headboard and Footboard Bed, Headboard, Footboard, Headboard & Footboard, Pier Bed, Poster Bed, Sleigh Bed, Upholstered Bed, Wall Unit Bed, Double Bed, Day Bed, Storage Bed, Home Furnishings, Furniture, Bed frame, Furnishing For Bedroom, Bedroom Furniture Set
Nothing on this page may be copied or reproduced without explicit permission.


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- Details
ITEM: #8916vsCreate traditional elegance with a modern touch with this scottish lace design swag valance. The Valance is enhanced by scalloped sides and bottom. 70% Cotton/30% Polyester. Machine Washable.
- Jacquard lace valance with floral lace design
- Scalloped sides and bottom Swag Valance measures 60" wide and 27" long
- 1.5" rod pockets
- 70% cotton / 30% polyester
- Machine wash
- Shipping Info
When will my order ship?
Most "In Stock" orders ship within 2 business days. Shipping time will vary depending on the shipping method you select during checkout.
How much will I be charged for shipping?
We do not inflate shipping costs, nor do we charge a handling fee. Our shipping charges are based on real time shipping costs from USPS or UPS. To see an estimate of shipping costs, add items to the cart and use our shipping calculator on the shopping cart page.
Here are some examples of approximate shipping costs:
- 2 satin pillowcases -. $2.50
- 1 bed skirt - $5.50
- 1 mattress cover - $6.00
- 1 satin sheet set - $8.00
The cost varies based on zip code and weight. All orders are shipped F.O.B. Brooklyn, N.Y.
- Return Policy
ShopBedding.com Customer Satisfaction Guarantee:
Your satisfaction is our goal. Every item, every day, is 100% guaranteed! If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase for any reason return it within 30 days of receipt for an exchange, or refund (excluding shipping charges). No questions asked. After 30 days no returns will be accepted. All returns must be in new condition only, and in original packaging.
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Contact: Media Relations
Phone: (512) 463-8700
Date: April 28, 2014
Photos, video and infographics available for media to download here
AUSTIN — In an effort to reverse a 5-percent year-over-year increase in motorcycle crash fatalities, the Texas Department of Transportation is launching its month-long "Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles" campaign. Starting May 1, the campaign will coincide with the first day of national Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.
"Drivers who hit motorcyclists often say they never saw them," said John Barton, TxDOT deputy executive director. "Our roads in Texas are crowded, so we all have to stay alert and be on the lookout for motorcyclists. For those driving cars and trucks, we urge you to check your mirrors, leaving extra room and use turn signals in order to prevent crashes and save lives."
In Texas last year, crashes killed 494 motorcyclists. That is up from 470 motorcycle-related deaths in 2012. Because 4,339 motorcycle crashes in Texas last year involved at least one other vehicle, TxDOT is asking drivers to look twice, leave plenty of space and use signals before making lane changes. About one-third of these deadly crashes happen at intersections where cars and motorcycles meet.
To help raise awareness, TxDOT is hosting dramatic motorcycle processions across the state featuring the Texas Patriot Guard Riders, who will carry eye-catching, yellow-and-black flags emblazoned with specific safety messages. The volunteer riders usually attach American flags to their motorcycles while taking part in funeral processions for fallen soldiers, law enforcement officers and emergency workers. Additionally, TxDOT has added a new request to drivers – "Look Twice for Motorcycles" and count them. This strategy for saving lives is based on travel games like "Slug Bug." People who have played Slug Bug still take notice when they see a Volkswagen Beetle on the road. In the same way, counting motorcycles will condition Texans to look out for drivers on two wheels.
The "Share the Road" campaign will appear at events around the state, inviting visitors to have their photo taken on a stationary motorcycle in a virtual reality setting. Those who participate can sign a pledge to share the road and look twice for motorcycles, and also earn the chance to win a donated prize such as tickets to local events.
For media inquiries, contact TxDOT Media Relations at firstname.lastname@example.com or (512) 463-8700.
The Texas Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining 80,000 miles of road and for supporting aviation, rail, and public transportation across the state. Through collaboration and leadership, we deliver a safe, reliable, and integrated transportation system that enables the movement of people and goods. Find out more at TxDOT.gov. "Like" us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
Copyright 2017
Texas Department of Transportation
All Rights Reserved
Privacy & Security Policy
125 East 11th Street • Austin, Texas 78701


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The latest iPhone 8 and 10 are the latest cutting edge smartphones that Goldgenie artisans have hand embellish and customised, available in 24k Gold, Rose Gold, Platinum and Diamonds.
The iPhone 7 is a sharply styled smart phone that Goldgenie artisans have embellish and customised, available in 24k Gold, Rose Gold, Platinum, solid Gold, Diamonds, Swarovski style crystals and python skins.
Goldgenie pioneered the art of Gold-plating iPhones in 2007 and their embellishments include 24k Gold, Rose Gold, Platinum, solid Gold, Diamonds, Swarovski style crystals and python skins.
Goldgenie is proud to unveil it's latest customised smartphone range, including the Gold Samsung Galaxy S6 & S6 Edge, featuring a revolutionary curved display.
One of the most efficient devices in the corporate world. Goldgenie's touch make these communication devices true treasures of our time.
The slightly curved shape of the award winning HTC collection makes them very comfortable to handle and fine examples of modern smartphone design.
Our Luxury 24k Gold Limited Edition Gulf range can be customised with seven Gulf state and endless customisation options
Goldgenie are proud to present the smallest 24k Gold mobile phone in the world.
The most luxurious Macbook Pro in the world with Diamond encrusted Apple logo
Goldgenie's proud to present a new executive range of 24K Gold embellished desktop stationery sets crafted by a one of the world's finest traditional stationery designers.
Exquisite materials and superb craftsmanship from our master craftsman ensure our cases will not only stand the test of time but allow for better grip and easy insertion in and out of your pocket or purse, with a touch of class.
Exquisite Leather and 24K Gold heels marks the supreme craftsmanship from Goldgenie co-producing a gold-plated collection of shoes with Deeasjer, These Stilettos are being raved about by fashionistas worldwide ahead of the latest season.
Finely crafted electronic Shisha, embellished in pure 24k Gold by our master craftsman
Goldgenie's in-house team of customization artisans recently completed embellishing a men's British racing bike with 24K Gold and have elevated this modest form of transport to another level.
Goldgenie's stunning range of 24k Gold ornaments, technology and lifestyle accessories make the perfect gestures of gratitude, recognition or ?celebration in the corporate world.
Goldgenie Artisans have created something special for those into traditional games. Our craftsmen have applied high polished to its bars and dressed the players in 24k gold and silver to produce that signature Goldgenie lustre and glamour.
Our Gold Bullion Ingot range is an internationally recognised commodity with real instantaneous monetary value.
The DNA collection consists of 7 limited edition designs which are finished with 24k Gold, Rose Gold or Platinum prestige plating and embellishment.
Available in Solid 18K or 24K Gold plated, Rose Gold or Platinum encrusted with Swarovski style crystals or diamonds and a wide range of exotic animal skin straps.
Goldgenies' Master craftsman have produced their most stunning customised Rolex yet, Limited edition to just 10 pieces for the NBA and crafted from 18k Gold with 8ct of VS1 Diamonds makes this a true modern classic and a sought after collectors piece.
On receipt of your initial payment we will purchase an Apple device on your behalf in preparation for the customisation process.


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Water Parks
Disney Springs
Disney's BoardWalk
Tours and
Special Experiences
- Fishing Excursions
- Golf
- Miniature Golf
--Fantasia Gardens
--Winter Summerland
- Running/Jogging Trails
- Surfing Class at
Typhoon Lagoon
- ESPN Wide World of Sports
Disney Vacation Club
Disney Cruise Line
Other Fun Things
-- AllEars® Trading Cards
-- Close Your Eyes and Blink Yourself to WDW
-- Photo of the Week
- Audience Participation
- Birthday Ideas: Adults
- Birthday Ideas: Kids
- Carriage Rides
- Collecting Character
- Desktops/Wallpapers
- Grand Floridian
Adventures for
- Hidden Mickeys
- Overlooked Attractions
- Photography
--Digital Tips
--Videotaping Tips
- Pin Trading Guide
- Pixies at WDW!
- Pressed Penny &
Quarter Guide
- Scrapbooking Magic!
- Specialty Cruises
--IllumiNations Cruises
--Pontoon Rentals
--Resort Park Cruises
SeaWorld Orlando
Writers' Corner
- Character Warehouse
- Directions from
- Grocery Stores
- Ground Transportation
- Radio/TV Stations
- Religious Services
- Telephone Numbers
The Blizzard Beach Legend
It was a meteorological phenomenon of the strangest order. One balmy day, a freak winter storm developed over the western end of Walt Disney World Resort and covered the area with a thick blanket of powdery white snow. Before you could say "hot cocoa," plans were underway for Florida's first ski resort.
Ski lifts were put up, toboggan runs were laid down and an entire resort area blossomed around the mountain of snow. Yet before the first skier could strap on a pair of boots and stick his poles into the snow, the temperatures returned to their normal Florida levels, and the powdery snow quickly turned into slippery slush. The ski resort operators saw their dream melting down the hillside. Yet that's not all they saw.
As the slush began cascading down and pools of water began to form, an echoing "yahoo" was heard from the summit of the mountain. Everyone looked up to see a playful alligator careening down the melting hillside. He slid to the base of the mountain and landed in a pool of water with a thunderous splash. They knew at once that they were back in business.
Slalom courses, bobsled and toboggan runs became downhill waterslides. The creek of melted snow that formed at the base of the mountain became a relaxing tube ride. The chairlift carried swimmers instead of skiers. The ski jump became the tallest and fastest water slide in the world. The ski resort became known as Disney's Blizzard Beach, the most slushy, slippery, exhilarating water park anywhere!
What is Blizzard Beach?
Blizzard Beach (BB) is the largest water park at Walt Disney World Resort. It applies an outrageous ski resort theme to an awesome water adventure park. It's action-oriented, with the emphasis on slides and thrills. It features over 17 slides, a wave pool, an area for pre-teens and an area especially for little tikes. The water is heated to 80 degrees at BB.
The best story I've heard describing the feel of BB comes from a Disney CM I know. She's from New England, and she told me that whenever she gets homesick for winter in New England she just hops in her car and heads over to BB. She said, "I know it sounds silly, but it's like being back home. Just driving past the park will send chills up my spine, no matter what the outside temperature is!"
Where is Blizzard Beach located?
Blizzard Beach (BB) is located between Disney's Hollywood Studios and the All-Star Resorts.
How do you get there?
By bus: All WDW resorts have buses that make regular runs to BB.
By car: Take the Magic Kingdom exit off I-4 and follow the signs.
Driving to the water parks can be a real advantage, especially if you have small children. Disney water parks offer free parking and then you are able to come and go as you please and you don't have to wait for a bus. Some bus routes are not express to/from the water parks and make stops along the way.
How much is admission?
Prices current as of Sunday, February 11th 2018 (all prices include tax):
Parks 1-Day Pass provides one-day admission to Typhoon Lagoon OR Blizzard
Beach for designated time period: $65.00 (Ages 10+); $59.00 (Ages 3-9) with tax.
Water Parks Annual Pass provides unlimited admission to both water parks for one year. Adults $130.00 with tax; children 3-9 $130.00 with tax.
Unlimited admission is also included with Premium Annual Passports.
A combined Blizzard Beach and WinterSummerland (mini golf) ticket may be available for purchase.
What are BB's hours of operation?
Minimally, the park is open from 10am to 5pm. Hours expand in the summer to 9am to 8pm.
Other operating hours may be found HERE.
Blizzard Beach hours subject to change without notice.
What attractions have restrictions at BB?
Summit Plummit - Must be 48 inches tall to ride this attraction.
Slush Gusher - Must be 48 inches tall to ride this attraction.
Downhill Double Dipper - Must be 48 inches tall to ride this attraction.
Chair Lift Up Mt. Gushmore - Must be 32 inches tall to ride this attraction.
Tikes Peak - Children under 4 feet tall play here with their parents.
Children under 10 are not allowed admission into BB unless accompanied by an adult.
Please note that each attraction has its own guidelines. Most require that you be in good health and of certain age or height to participate.
What attractions can the whole family enjoy?
Teamboat Springs - World's longest family raft ride.
Toboggan Racers - Eight lane toboggan slide. Mat pick-up at top of Mt. Gushmore.
Snow Stormers - Switchback slalom-style mat slides. Mat pick-up at top of Mt. Gushmore.
Runoff Rapids - Open & enclosed inner tube runs. Tube pick-up at bottom of Mt. Gushmore.
Cross Country Creek - Continuous flowing creek, encircling BB. Tubes at each entrance.
Melt Away Bay - constant bobbing gentle waves the whole family
What is Mt. Gushmore and what rides are on it?
Mt. Gushmore is the centerpiece of BB. Its snow-covered peaks tower over the waterpark and mark the beginning of several of BB's rides.
The two biggest "thrill-ride" slides are on Mt. Gushmore -- Summit Plummet and Slush Gusher.
Summit Plummet is a 120 foot high ski jump that you shoot down at speeds of 60-mph.
Slush Gusher is 90 foot high double-humped slide. The most common complaint you hear about these rides is from women who have "lost" the tops of their bathing suits from the speed and force of the drop.
Teamboat Springs is the world's longest family white-water raft ride. Three to six passengers can ride this not-so-tame 1,200-foot flume. I've been on this one with small children who squeal with glee as you twist and turn down the drop and I've also been on this ride with adults who were surprised by the speed and thrills of the ride. If you don't have enough riders in your group, the lifeguards will combine groups.
The Toboggan Racer is a head-first eight lane race course. You lay on a mat and ride the course as it dips and propels you down the mountain side of Mt. Gushmore.
The Downhill Double Dipper is the world's only side-by-side tube racing slides. The slides are identical and are enclosed for part of the run. The tubes are approximately twice the diameter of the enclosed run at Runoff Rapids. The slides are setup as a race and run straight down the hill. Passengers travel at speeds up to 25 mph.
Snow Stormers is a trio of mat slides flumes that race down the mountain on a switch-back course through ski-type slalom gates.
Runoff Rapids is actually three high-speed tube-raft twisting turning flumes. The center slide is enclosed and you must ride this one solo, but the two outer slides can be ridden on one-, two-, or three-person rafts. The center enclosed slide is by far the best of the three, but beware, one time that I rode it I somehow got turned around in the current just as I entered the tube and rode the whole slide facing backwards!
Chair Lift to the top of Mt. Gushmore -- The ski-resort styled wooden-bench chair lift is complete with snow skis and over-head umbrellas. You can either take the ski lift to the top of Mt. Gushmore or, if you prefer, there are stairs.
What about those lazy tube rides around the waterpark -- does BB have one of those?
Cross Country Creek is BB's lazy tube ride in a creek around the Park. But be warned, just when you are so relaxed you think you might doze off on your raft, that's when you get squirted by a stream of water from Ice Gator's house, the snow making machine, one of many sprayers or geysers along the path, or go through one of the waterfalls of runoff at the entrance to the ice cave at Mt. Gushmore.
What about the kids? Are there areas just for them?
Ski Patrol Training Camp is the place for pre-teenagers. Here they can balance on the floating icebergs, ride the T-bar drop and enjoy their own water slides.
Tike's Peak is a kid-sized version of Blizzard Beach. Here children 4 feet tall and under (parents are allowed) can play in their own pools, ride their own slides, play in the pop jets and fountains, and much more. Just remember that children under 10 are not allowed admission into the BB unless accompanied by an adult.
What about safety? Are there lifeguards present at BB?
Each attraction is monitored by lifeguards. Guests are asked to follow their instructions at all times. Also, each attraction has its own unique guidelines. Most require that you be in good health and of certain height to participate.
Are tubes provided by BB?
A limited amount of complimentary tubes sizes are available at all tube rides. Tubes that are provided for an attraction should be left at that attraction. Tubes of varying sizes and for multiple riders are available depending on the attraction. At peak times there may be a shortage of tubes.
Does Blizzard Beach close down for maintenance?
Traditionally, Walt Disney World closes each of its water parks during the winter months.
At least one water park is always open.
For up-to-date closure information for Blizzard Beach visit our Rehabs and Closing Schedule.
What is the Alpine Village?
At the east end of the beach, the Alpine Village is where Guest Services, Snowless Joe's, Lottawatta Lodge, Beach Haus and first aid are located. Locations are also available in the park for hair wraps and temporary tattoos. The First-Aid station is located near the park entrance in between Lottawatta Lodge and Beach Haus (a store where you can get BB souvenirs, beach apparel, foot ware, film and sundries).
What about locker and towel rentals?
Lockers (small and large sizes are available, $10 and $15 respectively, and towels ($2) are available for rent at Snowless Joe's. There is no longer a refund of a key deposit because the lockers are keyless and are accessed via a four-digit PIN that you pick yourself. The rental process is handled on a touchscreen -- the customer chooses the size locker he/she wants, then pays for it with cash or credit card. Once paid, the screen prompts you to pick out a four-digit PIN, then you are assigned your locker number. You are allowed to go in and out of your locker all day by punching in the PIN you selected. There is a button at the bottom of the keypad on the locker that you push once you are vacating the locker for good.
Life jackets are available free of charge for guests who wish to leave an identification card or a refundable deposit. Changing rooms and showers are also located right next to the lockers. Also, lost children are brought to Snowless Joe's to await their parents. Lockers are also available at the restrooms located between Tike's Peak and Ski Patrol Training Camp and also beside the Downhill Double Dipper.
Are there places to buy food at BB?
Food and beverages are available in six locations. Click Here for Menus!
Artic Expedition - Snow Balls (Snow Cones)
Avalunch - a snack bar serving hot dogs, BBQ Sandwich, Turkey Legs, Ice Cream and beverages.
Cooling Hut - Snacks - ice cream, popcorn, and beverages
Frostbite Freddie's - a bar serving frozen drink specialties and beer.
Frosty the Joe Man Coffee Shack - hot and cold coffees!
Funnel Cakes - and cotton candy
Lottawatta Lodge - a counter service restaurant serving lunch and dinner. Serving burgers, hot dogs, pizza, deli sandwiches, salads, beverages and desserts. Kid's meals and ice cream too.
Mini Donuts - with dipping sauces
Polar Pub - a full service bar serving frozen drink specialties and spirits.
Sled Dog Expeditions - ice cream sundaes
The Warming Hut - a snack bar serving hot dogs, nachos, turkey legs, snacks, beverages and ice cream.
Can I bring my own cooler into BB?
Coolers are allowed in BB, however no alcoholic beverages or glass containers are to be carried into the water park.
Are there reserved chairs or cabanas available?
Polar Patios - Cabanas: There are 15 premium spaces available for rental daily. This includes an attendant and waiter service, private lockers, all-day drink mugs, cooler stocked with ice and bottled water, lounge furniture, tables and rental towels for 6. The Premium spaces accommodate up to 6 guests. Cost is a little more than $300 during peak season dates. Additional guests can be added for $25 each. Guests will be given a bracelet that allows access to the private area.
Advance reservations may be made up to 180 days out by calling 407-WDW-PLAY (407-939-7529). Full payment is required when making the reservation. If you must cancel, you must do so before 9:00 am the day before your reservation. If the park is closed all day on your reserved day for any reason, you will get a refund. If you did not make prior arrangements, you can stop at Snowless Joe's to check same-day availability.
Lodge Picnic Umbrellas - Premium Beach Chair Space - includes 2 lounge chairs, umbrella, cocktail table and 2 towels. Limit is up to four people. If you have more, a second reservation is needed. Reserve in advance by calling 407-WDW-PLAY (407-939-7529). Cancellation without penalty must be no later than 9:00 am the day prior to reservation. You can check at High n Dry Rentals to see if any same-day rentals are available. Cost is about $40 plus tax in low season and about $50 plus tax during high season and must be paid at time of reservation.
In addition, Blizzard Beach is testing a "human full-body dryer." For $5, a group of four people can step into the dryer, which will blow air to dry them off for three three minutes.
Is there anything else I should know?
Smoking is only allowed in designated smoking areas. See the BB Guide Map for locations.
BB's own Ice Gator makes occasional appearances in the village area. He greets visitors and poses for pictures. Check with Guest Relations for scheduled appearances.
BB is usually "snowed-in" for rehab each year for two months between November and February.
Make sure to wear water shoes or sandals at BB, even though they have water spraying intermittently on most of the walkways to help prevent your feet from getting burnt.
BB posts water temperatures in the area between the main bridge and the Avalunch area. They give separate temperatures for the creek, ski patrol area and Melt Away Bay. In the same area, they also post a wait time chart for the Ski Patrol area, Summit Plummet, Downhill Double Dippers, Slush Gushers, Teamboat Springs and Snow Stormers.
Volleyball nets and secluded picnic areas are also available.
Disney water parks tend to be crowded, especially in the summer, and there are limited areas with shade. Arrive at BB either when they open, or try going just for the afternoon. A lot of the crowds thin out during the hottest part of the day and by mid-afternoon you can avoid long waits for the attractions.
Bring a disposable waterproof camera. You can buy one for about $15 at Beach Haus (the BB souvenir shop), or you can buy one at an off-property discount store for about $10. I found myself worrying about my camera, since it's not waterproof. I missed a lot of great shots because I didn't dare bring an expensive camera to places where it might get wet.
BB may close due to weather or maximum park capacity. If you are in the park and it closes due to weather remember to get your hand stamped so that if the weather clears up you can re-enter the park.
Additional information is available directly from Blizzard Beach at (407) 560-3400.
Lost articles can be picked up at Guest Relations (at the entrance to BB). Be warned that some articles may be irretrievable. Glasses and jewelry should be removed before going on the water attractions. BB is not responsible for lost articles. You can phone Lost & Found directly during normal business hours at (407) 560-5408.
Many thanks to Ken di Pietro who maintained the Blizzard Beach FAQ for AllEars.Net for many years.


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Mark Ramskill needed a new banner ad design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 40 designs submitted by 16 freelance designers.
SubHub, an Internet startup, aimed at those who want to publish their web content and make money from it, is looking for the design of 12 different banners, to be used by our affiliates, to advertise our site.
We are looking for designs, incorporating our logo, from strong designers with experience in this area.
We may ask the winning designer to design more banners and other graphics, in future as an ongoing relationship.
The banners should be punchy, attractive, fresh, sexy, web 2.0 style and screaming out to be clicked..... Our logo should be incorporated in the design (see http://www.subhub.com), as should the colours red and white.
Static banners only, supplied as Photoshop .psd. No Flash or animations.
Pixel sizes:
- 728x90 (leaderboard) for 3 of the banners
- 468x60 (full banner) for 3
- 128x600 (skyscraper) for 3
- 125*40 (blog) for 3
Our logo is available here:
- Red and white colour scheme... feel free to also use a touch of the same tone of grey/silver as on the SubHub site
- The SubHub logo to be incorporated
- Include the words "The World's Leading Solution for Publishing AND Monetizing Your Web Content"
- 1 out of every 3 banners (in each set) to also include the sales hook: "From just $97/month!"
- Use suitable accompanying stock imagery of your choice that fits with message (nothing cheesy though please)
- Banners to be made available as editable Photoshop .psd files
- Anything that looks like your generic hosting-offer-style template
- Outrageous fonts
- Cheesy images of smiling people (they make me scream!)


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WASHINGTON — Spurred to new action by the downing of the Malaysia airliner, the European Union approved dramatically tougher economic sanctions Tuesday against Russia, followed swiftly by a new round of U.S. penalties targeting key sectors of the Russian economy.
The coordinated sanctions were aimed at increasing pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin to end his country's support for separatists in eastern Ukraine whom the West blames for taking down the passenger jet nearly two weeks ago.
"Today Russia is once again isolating itself from the international community, setting back decades of genuine progress," President Barack Obama said. "It does not have to be this way. This a choice Russia and President Putin has made."
Europe's actions were particularly significant given that the continent has a far stronger economic relationship with Russia than the U.S. does Until this week, the EU sanctions had lagged behind the American penalties, in part because of leaders' concerns about a negative impact on their own economies.
But Europe's calculus shifted sharply after a surface-to-air missile brought down the passenger jet, killing nearly 300 people including more than 200 Europeans.
Lawrence High School honor roll
Topsham's Bowie receives Engineering Scholars Program scholarship
Farmington's Yates named to 50-voice choir at Bob Jones University
Volunteers needed for Dec. 1 Keep Me Warm supper
Augusta Nature Club to meet Nov. 28 in Augusta


text: Report: Marketers feel ill-equipped for digital marketing Published on September 23, 2013. San Jose, Calif.—Marketers feel overwhelmed by the pace of change in their jobs and feel particularly ill-equipped to manage digital marketing, according to a new study by Adobe Systems. Just 48% of respondents who characterized themselves as digital marketers felt highly proficient in digital marketing, and only 40% thought their company's marketing is effective, according to Adobe's study. In addition, 68% felt more pressure than ever to show return on their marketing investment. Contributing to these pressures, 76% of respondents said marketing has changed more in the past two years than the past 50. Adobe's study was based on an online poll of 1,000 marketers conducted in August and September. Most Popular In this article: BtoB


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|This information is provided free of charge by the Department of Industrial Relations from its web site at www.dir.ca.gov. These regulations are for the convenience of the user and no representation or warranty is made that the information is current or accurate. See full disclaimer at http://www.dir.ca.gov/od_pub/disclaimer.html.
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New query
NOTE: Authority cited: Sections 148.7 and 149.5, Labor Code. Reference: Section
446, Code of Civil Procedure; Sections 148.7, 149.5, 661(a), 6616 and 6619,
Labor Code.
1. Amendment of subsections (a) and (c) filed 2-1-84; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 84, No. 5).
Go Back to Article 5 Table of Contents


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Glamping: From Luxury Tent to On-Site Butlers
August 15, 2013 by RVBusiness Comments Off on Glamping: From Luxury Tent to On-Site Butlers
"Glamping" – a new trend when glamorous meets camping – is the kind of vacation that straddles two worlds: the rugged outdoors and keep-your-hands-clean comfort of home.
"The idea started when the British would go down to Africa for Safari's and they would have their big luxurious canvas tents, pack a bed," said Ruben Martinez, co-founder of GlampingHub.com. "To the best of our knowledge, that's what the idea started and over the last few years the trend has grown."
The Toronto Metro News reported that sometimes, the difference between camping and glamping is minimal: a canvas tent and a real bed, versus nylon and a bedroll. But most anything can be "glamping" if it's not a traditional house, hotel, RV or cabin and provides immediate access to nature.
"These places keep popping up," Martinez said. "They range from relatively simple tents, tree houses, yurts to the really extravagant."
How extravagant?
"Some of these places have butlers, they have wine service, fantastic views, king-sized bed—you name it," he said. "Some of these places can be pretty ridiculous."
One of Canada's most glamorous is the Clayoquot Wilderness Resort.
"We're in the heart of Clayoquot Sound in the middle of the UNESCO world bioshpere," Katherine MacRae, director of marketing for the resort. "We're 40 minutes by boat to the closest town and there's no road access."
The all-inclusive resort includes the seaplane trip from Vancouver, locally sourced five-course meals with wine pairings and activities.
"We have world-class salmon fishing out here, horseback riding is one of our big adventures," said MacRae, adding there's also a spa, hiking, skeet shooting, kayaking, archery, rock climbing and paintball.
MacRae says her resort was the original North American tented Safari. An all-inclusive tent for two costs costs $9,500 for three nights.
To read the entire article click here.


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Daniel's penalty was hooking and both were pretty weak calls. To say that they were frustrated might be a bit premature. The Hawks did keep the Sedin's chances down but they had a few opportunities that just missed too.Tiger wrote:
Sorry I just have to point out the Sedin line was completely stifled by Chicago.. and Dan and Hank both took slashing penalties ( frustration ? ) ..Hopefully they will have stronger games as the series continues..
The good news was the overall TEAM EFFORT. They're going to need more of that to go deep. Good show.


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Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic
Neve Campbell is no stranger in the sea of unusual names.
So when it came to her now 5-month-old son, the actress, wanting him to follow in her footsteps, skipped the mundane monikers.
"We looked through a lot of books and I liked the idea of a unique name," Campbell, 39, shared during a Monday appearance on The Talk.
"I like having a unique name — it's [my mom's] maiden name, Neve — and not a lot of people have it. It's nice having something special and different and so I wanted something like that for our son."
Before baby boy's birth, Campbell and JJ Feild had narrowed down their picks to five favorites, but after their first child was born, the winning name was an obvious choice.
"We decided that we'd wait and see and meet him and then decide," she explains. "And … when he was born we realized we could only remember one and that was Caspian, so it seemed like it was right."
— Anya Leon