text:
Going home, the Star Alliance way !
Past reports in this trip report series:
1. Au-revoir Continental! (by MSS658 Dec 5 2011 in Trip Reports)
2. Losing My Southwest Virginity! (by MSS658 Dec 18 2011 in Trip Reports)
3. A Trip On A Classic Silverjet And Some Trains! (by MSS658 Jan 4 2012 in Trip Reports)
4. Chasing The Storm On US Airways! (by MSS658 Jan 24 2012 in Trip Reports)
5. Jetting The Blue Way To New York! (by MSS658 Feb 4 2012 in Trip Reports)
May 2011, bad need to get plans and bookings started for the upcoming summer season. As it is not the most well kept secret to most of you anymore. Continental has been and still will be my favourite airline for many reasons. As the merger with United is already in progress, and rumours where going around that Continental's Newark-Brussels flight would be going over to United metal. This summer would be one of the last chances to fly Continental, so I started looking to all kind of fares and combinations. After a while I found myself booked on Continental's daily direct flight from Brussels to Newark and connecting trough to Greenville/Spartanburg International Airport. The aircraft combination would be a Boeing 777-200 for the long sector and the Embrear 145 from Expressjet on the short haul service to Greenville (See Part I)
After the long haul sector was booked it was time to look at some domestic sectors! Southwest airlines, a famous US-low cost carrier started flying into my regional airport of Greenville/Spartanburg international airport in March 2011 with quite a bit of advertising in the area. This is quite good news for the area since Greenville/Spartanburg is one of the most expensive airports in the US resulting in people rather driving +2hours to Atlanta or Charlotte. Well, since we are here. Time to book, I booked a flight from Greenville/Spartanburg to Fort Lauderdale stopping in Orlando Muncipal International Airport on their 737-700's. (See Part II)
Still having about 10 days extra until my next flight it was time to make a small sidetrip. Looking into options some interesting choices popped out. Originally I wanted to catch a Star alliance comination with US Airways and Continental Airlines from West Palm Beach to Dallas FW via Charlotte, Philadelphia, Newark and Houston adding me 2 767-200's on both routes. However, pricing changed and I had to look for something. Then I found something to Las Vegas on US Airways and Virgin America consisting a flight on the Boeing 757-300. I almost settled in for that one. However, after a lot of attempts to convince me by Planehunter, airbuseric (Eric), Flieger67 (Markus) and others.. They finally convinced me to try another combo consisting 2 767-200's. The first flight would be with American airlines from Miami to New York JFK. I was not excited at all about this leg as I would not get any miles and I flew with them back in 2008 from New York JFK to Miami on the A300 leaving me rather mixed impressions.. Oh well, they deserved a second chance and try to clear my toughts. At least the flight would be operated by a 767-200. I would travel on to Philadelphia by train. (see Part III)
Since my next segment started in Fort Lauderdale, I needed to get to South Florida. Off course I could fly Southwest airlines down to Southern Florida. But logged them just a week prior did not made it to inviting take them again (however, I still think they are a great airline). Another option was flying US Airways directly to South Florida on a Airbus A319 or Boeing 737-400, still quite boring. However, US Airways operates a few flights between it's hubs in Charlotte and Philadelphia with it's Boeing 767-200 aircraft. Since the 767's other mission is long haul, I opted to book the 767 flight to Charlotte connecting on to the Boeing 737-400 down to West Palm Beach. (see Part IV)
Back to the original Itinerary. Some way I needed to get back home, off course the most logic way was just booking a return from South Florida to Brussels on Continental via Newark and I would have done it most probably. But hey, I'm an A.netter right who loves to find all kinds of crazy combinations that outsiders would call you crazy. Right? Soon my attention fell on an pretty popular and loved American carrier named on jetBlue. One of the two only airlines actually making profit (the other one is Southwest) and usually gives out perfect and flawless service based on many other opinions and trip reports that I've read. Even my recent Southwest crew was bragging about jetBlue. However, I had the chance to fly jetBlue back in 2008 from Charlotte to New York JFK and must say I only had a pretty average flight that did not impress me that much, especially one male flight attendant who would make his appearance in the media when deploying the emergency slide while taxing to the gate in New York JFK. To be honest, even on my flight 2 years prior did not give any sign that he was actually loving his job at all…
As we all know that this act was very exceptional and there had been some changes over the years (New York's JFK Terminal 5 p.ex) and to form a real opinion about an airline you have to fly them at least twice. So, In the hope to have better words for them (or a similar opinion as others). A flight from Fort Lauderdale to New York JFK was booked. I opted for JFK to experience the most-advertised terminal in the world I supposes. The aircraft was scheduled to be on a standard A320 flight! (See Part V)
After 2,5 weeks of flying it was time to head back home! As the most logical way was booking Continental's direct service from Newark to Brussels. However after a bit of searching I found a similar priced flight trough Frankfurt. First of all it was leaving a bit later than CO60 to Brussels, as an addition the Frankfurt to Brussels flight would be operated on a Boeing 737-500 series aircraft. My flight to Frankfurt would be operated by a Boeing 777-200 series aircraft, this would be my last flight operated by Continental Airlines.
This report will start at the spot where I finished my last trip report, In New York JFK's terminal 5 after a not-so impressive flight from Fort Lauderdale with jetBlue Airways. After the baggage fiasco in New York JFK I was finally able to reserve the 14.00 shuttle to Newark. An hour late but still giving me about 4 hours time in Newark before my flight would leave to Frankfurt, so no big deal I tought! A few minutes past 14.00 the shuttle arrived to pick me up, It seemed like I was the first stop as we stopped in terminal 7,8 and 1. After hitting the road we suddenly turned back towards the airport to pick up some Continental Airlines pilots who came in on Delta and where heading to work in Newark. On our way a typical NY Cabb
A pic of our bus for the next hour or so…
Finally at 14.40 our bus settled of in the direction of Newark, the ride was scheduled to be about an hour to Newark, but soon traffic started to get bad. Giving us about an hour extra drive. Here is some of the construction site
Weather was not improving as well, actually a huge thunderstorm was passing trough! Really disrupting Newark's operation a bit further down the road. Thankfully my plane was already in Newark since 12.00 as it arrived from Brussels as Continental flight 61, the same as my outbound flight. N77006 would be scheduled for me tonight
The remainder of the journey I started a conversation with the pilots in the back, had a nice conversation and learned quite a bit of what was going on in the merger. Pilots where going to London Heathrow, Glasgow, Paris CDG and Omaha. The latter pilot's flight got cancelled because we where still in traffic at his STD. Finally at about 16.40 our bus arrived at Newark's terminal C. I'm glad that I was not flying to Brussels directly as Continental 60 already departs at 18.15, giving me only an hour and a half before the flight (and I still have not eaten lunch yet). Continental 50 to Frankfurt leaves at 19.30, so a bit under 3 hours to go for me.
Leaving Newark Liberty International Airport
First stop for me was the departure board, quite a bit cancelled and delayed flights at this time. Thankfully, as expected no delay yet for Continental 50 to Frankfurt. Soon It was up to the check-in line, check-in was done at the kiosk. For my flight towards Frankfurt I was assigned seat 44A, not being so far away anymore from departure the load looked rather light. So a quick change to seat 25A in order to capture a free 3-seater it was! Not offering the best views, but since it was mostly overnight it would be nice. For Lufthansa flight from Frankfurt to Brussels seat 11F was to be selected, no option to change over here. Next stop was the rather busy security counter and not so much room to manoeuvre in. However it is still larger than the A and B terminals, I still found it to be cramped! By 17.10 I was fully ready to explore the terminal! Traffic was very diverse here in Newark's terminal C. Here is an overview with the Newark-city skyline in the background!
However, no more Continental titles to be seen no more…
My departure gate would be C108 in the C2 terminal today, the departure hall was small but not cramped.
When approaching the gate area I noticed a Boeing 777 just being pushed back. This 777 would make a short hop to Houston, IAH as CO1047. Soon another 777 came in it's place, when observing the registration I noticed a different registration than forseen. N57016 came at stand 108. I noticed quite a lot of people and crew already waiting. Soon Everything became clear. Another flight prior to mine was supposed to leave from this gate, and a plane that was going to an airport I would be landing a few minutes later. You guessed it, this plane would leave as Continental airlines flight 60 to Brussels at 18.15. After that I checked the FIDS another time. So far, so good still for me..
Among all the Continental traffic there was one odd bird in here parked at gate 102. Here you can find N649UA, a United Airlines Boeing 767-300 in old colors being prepared for UA 978 to Zurich at 18.35. A few months later the lonesome United 767 would be accompanied by a company 777 on the Newark-Brussels flight
By now it was 17.25, as my last decent meal was at 6.00 I was starting to get hungry. I opted for fast food.. McDonald's for my last proper meal in the US
After eating it was back up to some spotting. Not far from the Great food court in the C1 terminal I could spot a Continental Boeing 767-200. If prices would not have been that high, I could have got a ride on this one to Houston as well! Here is N76156 ready to go as CO 44 to Milan MXP
A quick peek over at terminal B I could find N177DN starting her trip to Amsterdam as DL 56. Another 'exotic' carrier was a British Airways Boeing 777-200 registred G-ZZZC, bound for London-Heathrow. On this picture you could see 9V-SDD, a Singapore Airlines A340-500 resting after her 19 hour journey from Singapore as SQ 21. In the background you can see an SAS A330 being prepared for it's flight to Copenhagen as SK910.
Back to Continentalland in terminal C. Here where Continental Airlines flights leaving and arriving to destinations nearby such as Albany, NY or a bit further away as Hong Kong. Most of the longhauls where going to Europe, like this one over here. N68061, a Boeing 767-400 which will be bound for Paris CDG in just a little while
Or it's bigger brother going to Tel Aviv as Continental Airlines flight 90.
Soon another check to the FIDS showed me not so good news… Seems like we already had a 50 minutes delay.
I was wondering why that was, the aircraft had landed and the weather cleared up… hmm… Soon it became relavent, Our gate was still being occupied by the earlier flight to Brussels. The plane was already past it's scheduled departure time and cargo was still being loaded
Next door N78011 had docked in, bound for London Heathrow as Continental flight 28!
At 18.46 The Brussels-bound flight finally pushed back, soon it held halt for another Boeing 777-200 coming. It looked like it was going to come in to my gate, soon I held my breath when I noticed that It was the Star Alliance logojet registered N78017. The same plane that took me from Brussels to Newark a few weeks prior as seen here
Au-revoir Continental! (by MSS658 Dec 5 2011 in Trip Reports)
Soon a breath of relief followed as the plane turned towards me (and away from the gate). Her next mission would be a bit further away from Frankfurt. She would go to Delhi as flight CO 82
Doesn't that engine look big??
A quick close up
And here is N57016 starting her journey towards Brussels, wonder who would be there first?
By now it was past 19.00 and started heading to my gate, when I arrived about 20 minutes later the assigned aircraft, N77006 had already been towed in and preparations are being made.
The sun started setting as my last Continental Airlines flight was about to begin
Soon I could spot the crew, most members looked to be in their 40s. The Inflight service manager looked familiar to me but I could not place him. Soon I could spot his name and immediately recognized him on a trip back from Newark to Brussels in 2009. The Gate agents where the same people that handled the earlier Brussels and Houston flight. They where quite overworked since they where explaining to a passenger that the plane still had to be towed in from the B-concourse. Another fact that I noticed was that there where no announcements concerning our delay. While the plane was already in position and being prepared, while checking my passport I asked if the 3-seater is still free. I got a quick answer that the aisle seat had been occupied. The disruptions earlier in Newark caused a lot of passengers to miss their connections to Brussels, Munich, Geneva, Berlin, … and where filling up the empty seats of our flight to Frankfurt. The last minute changes where also visible when noticing the Inflight service manager going multiple times back and forward between the gate and the aircraft!
At 19.50 Boarding began, first using the Public address system. Then just yelling the seatrows out, not very professional If you ask me. It seemed like everybody was seated in the rear cabin as it took quite a while for my seat to be called. Soon I was allowed to pass trough the jetway
20.15 in Newark, 2.15 in Frankfurt I was onboard my last Continental flight. N77006 would be the jet named after one of it's previous CEO's Robert F. Six.
Continental Airlines flight CO 0050 From Newark to Frankfurt am Main
Monday, 15 August 2011
Brussels (BRU/EBBR) – Newark (EWR/KEWR)
Continental Airlines 50 (United Airlines 1094, Lufthansa 7602, Air Canada 2538)
Boeing 777-224ER N77006 'Robert F. Six' Economy Class 25A
Built and delivered to Continental Airlines on 8 December, 1998
19.30-20.49 (Gate C108; wheels up on runway 4L at 21.15)
09.25-09:46 (Stand A94; wheels down on runway 7C at 09.46)
Announced flying time: 6hrs22mns
Cruising Altitude: FL 370,390
Load factor: 75% in Y
Routing: NEWARK 8Merit-Hartford-Allex-Gander-N49W50-N50W40-N51W030-N51W20-DINIM-UL607-SPI-U5180-P8SOV-TI80-FRANKFURT
Personal statistics
150th registered flight.
13th flight in 2011
11th flight on Continental Airlines
15th flight on the B777 series aircraft
13th flight on the Boeing 777-200
1st flight on N77006
Recommended song for this long haul flight: Bruno Mars - Grenade
Once onboard I was greeted by a flight attendant in her 40's. When asking how I was doing I could not resist to tell how I'm glad that I'm flying Continental Airlines again. When entering the Economy class cabin I noticed that my luck of having a 3-seater for my own had vanished as a man in his early 30s was installing himself in the aisle seat. He and his family (seated in the middle section) where flying to Geneva but had missed their flight, resulting them being placed on Continental 50. In the meanwhile the Inflight service manager was making an announcement that we would be even more delayed due to waiting some connecting passengers. I guess that's what you get if you are the last flight to a Star Alliance hub!
In the meanwhile the 777 to London Heathrow already had left and a 757 took it's stand to another European position, this plane is bound for Paris CDG as Continental Airlines flight 54
Seems like a very short flight tonight…
I noticed the newer boarding music played again, I actually did prefer the older one. This newer classical tone sounds just so creepy In my opinion. Soon the captain came on announcing our departure in 10 minutes and all passengers who should need to use the restroom should do it as we where expecting a bumpy ride. Our captain himself was an CO-veteran in his 70s. Finally at 20.50, more than an hour after our scheduled departure time we where ready to go. In the meanwhile, it had already became dark.
First the safety video started
Soon we started our taxi out to runway 4L. If we where on time, this would result in a wonderful sunset departure… However, having an arrival time a bit later is not that bad either as I do not like those 7.00 arrivals in Europe. Flight time announced was 6hrs22mins giving us a nearly on-time arrival. Behind us in the queue was the Star Alliance logojet 'N78017' bound for Delhi, quite nice to see the aircraft that took me over from Europe behind us.
At 21.15 the mighty 777 lifted up
Soon followed by our typical in flight announcements…
During the announcement we where informed another time that we had to remain seated in the first few hours off the flight due to predicted turbulence. There where apologies as well in case the meal service had to be interrupted mid-service. For the next 45 minutes there where just some occasional small bumps, nothing big at all. Soon the meal service started, choice consisted of chicken or beef with rice. I opted for the latter and did not complain of my choice. I was satisfied by the portion since it was already 22.00 and had eaten only 6 hours prior.
Our crew was not as customer-oriented like my flight from Brussels to Newark, but sill nice and friendly. Certainly at a level which I'm not complaining at. 22:30 in Newark, 4:30 in Frankfurt the meals where cleared and I was ready to make an attempt to sleep. A great attempt to open the amenity kit I got on Continental 61, but first a cabin picture of the forward cabin
Fastforward a few hours… 1:15 in Newark and 7:15 in Frankfurt, I'm awoken by quite a bump and the seatbelt sign pinging on. This would be the first bump I would feel in the flight, so it went pretty smooth after all . A quick peek out of the window indicated the first glare of daylight? As on the flight to Newark, no water runs where given as well. Not a big deal., just remarkable
No nightflight report without the darkened cabin (with PTV's on) shot
As we approached daylight, the seatbelt sign pinged off
And soon I was up to stretch my legs and implement the usual gift trick, after the usual thank you and some talk I went back to my seat as breakfast was about to begin. Soon the Flight attendant came to my seat and gave me a nice gift. I don't know if this was from the Flight attendant itself or from the Businessfirst menu.
By now the cabin lights where turned on as the Breakfast service was about to commence
Nearing the Irish coast
8.00 in Frankfurt, 2.00 in Newark Breakfast is served. Continental's Breakfast consists of a fresh croissant and some fruit. Nice and fresh.
Nearing the end of my summer trip, after 2,5 weeks of fun in the US
By now it was already daytime outside.
I went back to the galley to make my final stretch and talked a bit more with the crew. When I returned to my seat we where over the Belgian/German border and our decent into the Frankfurt area had begun.
Soon we could see the Reihn valley.
Flaps are being deployed
9.38 in Frankfurt, 3.38 in Newark… Robert F. Six touched down on European soil, a familiar place for most of us. Frankfurt's runway 7C.
A short taxi would lead us to stand A94, a bit near the new terminal which Is under construction. A94 is an apron postion as well, so it will be deboarding by bus today. At 9.41 the plane shut down it's engines ending my last Continental flight, an airline that will deeply be missed. Before deplaning I was allowed to make one of these.
Or a close up…
We parked next to a plane with a similar livery. However this plane is United's N774UA which arrived earlier from Washington IAD as UA 916. Quite strange, 2 equally alike liveries and still two separate carriers at the moment this flight was taken. Back to the Continental plane, at this time multiple busses where waiting already for our flight. Once onboard I could quickly snap some pictures. Here is the mighty fuselage
The gear of a 777 looks impressive as well
The most impressive element is the huge GE engine who made this transatlantic hop possible.
Shortly we where on our way to Terminal 1, clearly which airline is the Boss here in Frankfurt
Transfering in Frankfurt Am Main
First of all I quickly checked the departure board, my flight was still to be on time!
Our gate was not yet assigned. Thankfully there was an agent serving Continental passengers that where connecting. I soon learned that my flight would be leaving from gate A28 this morning. Next was up to the immigration booth where I quickly could show my passport. The well signed airport in Frankfurt led me direct to the B-concourse security booth which was already quite crowded. By 10.30 I was trough and could make my way towards my gate. Hmmm… gate is A28 and I'm in the B-concourse. Means like we will be going trough here today
At the end we could do some spotting, I like how the gates are designed here in Frankfurt. However, sometimes a bit difficult to take pics. Like D-AIGX (Lufthansa A340-300) over here
A quick peek to N642UA (United Boeing 767-300) being prepared as UA 953 to Washington 380Dulles.
Jup, this is stand A18
In the distant a familiar site, Robert F. Six being prepared for it's departure back home to Newark as CO51.
Next on the spotting tour is the Shengen side of the concourse. Here you can find Lufthansa in all shapes and sizes. The first one, registred D-ABIE would be my plane to Brussels this morning.
I quickly found a nice site to make some pictures. A lot of planes where arriving, like this A330 registered D-AIKN
Or leaving, here you can see Delta's 15 to Atlanta operated by a Boeing 767-400, today N834MH.
N359AA (American Boeing 767-300) is heading back to the states as well!
And ofcourse.. No Frankfurt report without this one. Let me present you, D-AIMD!!!
This one is a tribute to the airliners.net meet in Frankfurt a month prior. It was great meeting and getting to know the faces behind your daily mail of trip reports! No trip report from me because I took the train to this meeting.
Back to August 16th now, In the meanwhile it is past 11.00 already and I'm at the gate
I quickly asked the sole gate agent if the 3-seater where I'm seated in is free. She replies negative. When I asked I could be reseated she advised me that this is the exit row! So I decided to stay in 11F.
At 11:20 the Boarding began, I soon used the automatic boarding gates which went very smooth. Soon I was onboard:
Lufthansa German Airlines flight 1010 from Frankfurt Am Main to Brussels
Tuesday 29 July, 2011
Frankfurt (FRA/EDDF)-Brussels (BRU/EBBR)
Lufthansa German Air Lines 1010 (Codeshare: US Airways 5700, United Airlines 9225, Brussels Airlines 7018, Air Canada 9190)
Boeing 737-530, D-ABIE 'Hildesheim' Economy Class 11F
Built and delivered to Lufthansa on 20 december, 1990
11.45-11.42 (Gate A28; wheels up on runway 7R at 12.04)
12.40-12.45 (Gate A54; wheels down on runway 25L at 12:39)
Announced flying time: 35mins
Cruising Altitude: FL 290
Load factor: 70% in Y
Routing: Frankfurt-Brussels
Personal statistics
151th registered flight.
14th flight in 2011
5th flight on Lufthansa
16th flight on the Boeing 737
12th flight on the classic series
2nd flight on the Boeing 737-500 series
1st flight on D-ABIE.
The first stop before finding my seat is in the galley to give the traditional routine gift. After receiving a great thank you I found the way to my seat just at the wing.
A peek trough the window indicated me that N77006, the plane that flew me in from Newark is back on it's way home again as Continental 51
Soon my 2 seatmates found got seated. The middle seat was occupied by a younger lady while an middle aged man took the aisle seat. Since row 10 was empty somebody had to be reseated. Immediately the younger lady opted to reseat herself. Soon the door was closed, the manual safety demonstration was started and we pushed back just a little bit before schedule this morning back to Brussels. Taxi was quite long while passing Lufthansa in all shapes and sizes.
Soon at 12.02 Hildesheim spooled her engines up and my last flight this summer has commenced.
Soon we where back over the Reihn river valley.
Followed by a sharp right turn
Being up for about 24hrs already I soon dozed off again, when I woke up we where already 15 minutes later. The service had started, for me just an orange juice and a chocolate bar. Sufficient for a short hop like this one
A quick cabin pic of this old bird. It's my first flight with the NEK seating with Lufthansa. The seats where ok but a bit hard.
Our trash was being collected while our decent into Brussels had started. Somewhere over Cologne.
Soon me made it over Belgium and the flaps where deployed.
At 12.39, a short 30 minutes after leaving Frankfurt we arrived back on Belgian soil on Brussels 25L
Is it Belgium?
Yes, we are clearly back in Belgium. Thomas cook and SN everywhere
At 12.45 we came to a halt at gate A54, besides a company 319 registred D-ALIE pushing back to Frankfurt or Munich.
While disembarking a quick shot of the NEK seating of Lufthansa's Boeing 737.
A quick legroom shot, not complaining at all as you can imagine. After a trip like this a nice exit row was the only thing I needed!
And of course… a front desk visit included here as well
Arrival in Brussels airport
At 12.55 I was off board D-ABIE and in the A-concourse in Brussels. A quick picture of our classic now being prepared to go back to Frankfurt in an hour
Soon I started my long walk towards baggage claim, on the way I could find a Jetairfly 767 at a shengen gate, not a normal place for it to be
Soon after a long hike I arrived at the baggage claim. When I arrived I still had to wait for my bag, even after 25minutes since our arrival. Only in Brussels this can happen
Finally at 13.20 My bag arrived and was able to exit the terminal, soon I went down to the new station of the airport
At 13:52 I took the train to my hometown arriving at about 15:30 at home
I arrived at 16:00 at home, 24 hours after lifting off on my jetBlue flight to New York or 27 hours after leaving Palm Beach Gardens.
As a bonus I will show you the old Continental amenity kit.
Overall verdict:
As I said in my first part of this trip report I always found Continental above US standards, this flight is no exception. Good crew, good catering and comfortable seating. This was my last Continental flight and it will be an airline that will be missed in the American landscape. The only thing that I really hope is that a lot of items service-wise will be brought over to the new United. The handling in Newark was poor. I don't blame the weather at all. But why shout out loud instead of just making an P/A announcement, or at least the correct information would have been nice.
Lufthansa preformed quite well on this sector, as I was expecting. After a long trip the exit row was just the perfect end.
higlights in the series
- Flying Continental Airlines long haul
- Southwest Airlines, very impressed by the service on that short Orlando-Ft Lauderdale flight.
- The crew of American Airlines 1510, how they really changed my vision about the airline
- Flying the Boeing 767-200 of US Airways and American Airlines
downside in the series
- jetBlue Airways: despite the various opinions about this airline I still find it to be an overrated carrier, while it is defiantly not more enjoyable than the legacies.
Overall remarks:
Continental Airlines 0050 from Newark to Frankfurt am Main : (Total score = 73%)
Departure: 60% (No Information given, unless asked)
Aircraft cleanliness : 80% (Roomy and clean impression)
Seat Comfort: 70% (decent legroom, standard pillow and blanket, wide and soft, IFE box does not form a disturbance)
Crew: 70% (Friendly, nice and welcoming. Not the extra touch like the outbound crew but still good)
IFE: 70% (plenty of offers, choice is average)
Catering: 80% (Good quality and quantity wise! Breakfast was good as well)
Arrival: 70% (The usual FRA maze but still clear)
Lufthansa German Air Lines 1010 from Frankfurt Am Main to Brussels : (Total score = 77%)
Departure: 80% (Nice and large waiting areas!)
Aircraft cleanliness : 80% (Nice despite it's age)
Seat Comfort: 90% (exit row, but hard seating)
Crew: 70% (friendly and efficient)
Catering: 70% (sufficient for the length of the flight)
Arrival: 70% (wait for luggage was a bit long)
As a bonus I would like to give a list of regs I spotted in Newark, Frankfurt Am Main and Brussels
Frankfurt :
Total facts in this trip report
2 New registrations (N77006 and D-ABIE)
Facts in the trip report series:
1 New Airline (Southwest Airlines)
1 New airport (Orlando MCO)
1 New type (B737-700)
9 New registrations (N78017, N11181, N424WN, N336AA, N246AY, N460UW, N503JB, N77006 and D-ABIE)
Thanks for reading and viewing this trip report, I hope you enjoyed reading it. As usual, comments and feedback are always welcome
Stay tuned for my next trip report:
US Airways A332's. A step forward in the fleet??
Past trip reports:
Jetting The Blue Way To New York! (by MSS658 Feb 4 2012 in Trip Reports)
Chasing The Storm On US Airways! (by MSS658 Jan 24 2012 in Trip Reports)
A Trip On A Classic Silverjet And Some Trains! (by MSS658 Jan 4 2012 in Trip Reports)
Losing My Southwest Virginity! (by MSS658 Dec 18 2011 in Trip Reports)
Au-revoir Continental! (by MSS658 Dec 5 2011 in Trip Reports)
SATA, The Azores And The A310 Part II (by MSS658 Nov 13 2011 in Trip Reports)
SATA, The Azores And The A310! Part I (by MSS658 Oct 16 2011 in Trip Reports)
Sun, Snow, Rain And ... Lufthansa! (by MSS658 Sep 4 2011 in Trip Reports)
Propping Around The Upstate! (by MSS658 Aug 7 2011 in Trip Reports)
US Airways And Irregular Operations! (by MSS658 Jul 17 2011 in Trip Reports)
Lufthansa, There Is No Better Way To Fly! (by MSS658 Jul 5 2011 in Trip Reports)
A Short Hop On A Big Bird! (by MSS658 Feb 27 2011 in Trip Reports)
A West Side Flight On The East Side! (by MSS658 Jan 9 2011 in Trip Reports)
Wifi And Condensation On US Airways! (by MSS658 Dec 10 2010 in Trip Reports)
Air Canada, North America's Hidden Jewel? (by MSS658 Nov 6 2010 in Trip Reports)
A Ride With A Rare Blue Bird! (by MSS658 Oct 31 2010 in Trip Reports)
US Airways A333's.Are They Really That Bad? Part 2 (by MSS658 Oct 23 2010 in Trip Reports)
US Airways A330-300's. Are They Really That Bad? (by MSS658 Oct 16 2010 in Trip Reports)
Please check your spelling (press "Check Spelling" above)
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text:
Provides invasive species management plans for this
State. For additional resources, see:
Illinois Emerald Ash Borer Readiness Plan (Updated Jun 12, 2006; PDF | 210 KB)
Illinois Department of Agriculture.
Illinois Comprehensive State Management Plan for Aquatic Nuisance Species (Oct 25, 1999; PDF | 286 KB)
Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force.
Illinois Soybean Rust Program (PDF | 231 KB)
Illinois Department of Agriculture.
Vegetation Management Manual (Illinois)
Illinois Nature Preserves Commission.

subset: commoncrawl


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text: Rumors (and only rumors) of Weekend 2 being cancelled. Mar 21, 2014 14:52:37 GMT -8 Geoffrey Jellineck and chubbystackz like this. Quote Select PostDeselect PostLink to PostMemberGive GiftBack to Top Post by Badchoices on Mar 21, 2014 14:52:37 GMT -8 I don't even like that this thread exists. I don't want to exert any worrying/vibes about this being an issue. July weekend is on. It will happen. Don't worry.


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Lives in Ottawa, Canada
Joined on Oct 14, 2006
|Total: 2, showing: 1 – 2
On article Coming soon: Lens Reviews to return to dpreview.com (272 comments in total)
In reply to:
emircruz: yeah, the same dxo that cant release the e-m5 sensor results because... well your guess is as good as mine.
They'd been delaying the e-m5 results for a long long time:
"For the OM-D EM-5 review, the lab is working on it but noticed some surprising measures and is analyzing the root cause."
Then when it was all known that the e-m5 uses a Sony sensor, they published the results right after.
DxO is bought, and it's well known.
On article Where are the portrait lenses? (6 comments in total)
I like this article. However, it's not accessible from the menu.
|Total: 2, showing: 1 – 2


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Raven's Quest Summer Institute
Summer 2005
[Staff/Peer Mentors] [Class Activities] [Job Shadowing] [Social Events] [Back to Raven's Quest]
Class Activities
Raven's Quest Summer Institute incorporates a multitude of class activities. Students in 2005 participated in small group activities, listened to guest speakers, wrote papers, gave presentations and participated in team building activities and talking circles. Each student was part of a smaller subgroup that met frequently during the summer to collaborate on classroom assignments and provide each other with a venue for academic and emotional support. Subgroups were led by Peer Mentors.
During the Summer Institute, students study cultural diversity, counseling skills, ethics, confidentiality, and academic skill building, especially in writing research papers. Students learn about behavioral health degree programs in the University of Alaska system, as well as career opportunities in the behavioral health field within Alaska.


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ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- The trauma center at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center has been verified by the Verification Review Committee (VRC), an ad hoc committee of the Committee on Trauma (COT) of the American College of Surgeons (ACS). This achievement recognizes the trauma center's dedication to providing optimal care for injured patients.
The ACS Committee on Trauma promotes the development of trauma centers that not only provide the hospital resources necessary for trauma care, but also provide the entire spectrum of care to address the needs of all injured patients. Furthermore, the committee's verification program provides confirmation that a trauma center has demonstrated its commitment to providing the highest quality trauma care for all injured patients.
OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center sought this verification voluntarily. ACS verification means that all care associated with the OSF Saint Anthony trauma program, including virtually every department, from Lifeline ambulance and helicopter to the emergency department and neuro-trauma intensive care unit to infection control, is recognized as one of the best in the nation. In fact, OSF Saint Anthony is one of only two Illinois hospitals that have achieved ACS trauma center verification. The other Illinois hospital is Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood.


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College Hockey:Maine hoping to replace stars with a collective effort
Last season, Maine ranked seventh in the country in team offense and featured since-departed stars Spencer Abbott, Bryan Flynn, Matt Mangene and, on the blue line, Will O'Neill. It's not as though the cupboard has been left bare, but don't expect another top-10 offense.
"Like coaches often say, we have to replace those elite players with a group effort," Maine coach Tim Whitehead says. "That's very true for us.
"We do have Joey Diamond back. He was the top goal-scorer in the league. And Mark Anthoine was tied for the lead in power-play goals in the country. So we have a couple of guys that have proven they can score at this level consistently.
"Other than that, we're going to rely on some upperclassmen to expand their roles. Who would have guessed Matt Mangene would have become a big point producer last year, but he did. So we're hoping some guys emerge like that.
"Then we do have a large freshmen class and I think it's our best class since the [Gustav] Nyquist, Flynn, Abbott, and O'Neill class four years ago. These guys are going to need to contribute right away."
The impact of the offensive attrition extends also to the power play, where Maine finished tops in Hockey East and second in the country.
"It was three years in a row that it was really strong, but we've just lost too many of those guys," Whitehead says. "I don't expect us to be clicking at a real high percentage this year.
"That can change as the year goes on, but it will be more of a work in progress."
On the blue line, the departures of O'Neill and Ryan Hegarty leave a returning nucleus of seniors Nick Pryor, Mike Cornell and Mark Nemec along with junior Brice O'Connor. Freshman Ben Hutton should make an immediate impact.
"Hegarty was our top defensive defensemen and O'Neill our top offensive defensemen, but we've got guys that we feel are ready to step into those roles," Whitehead says. "Nick Pryor for sure is a great offensive defenseman. Mike Cornell and Mark Nemec are outstanding defensive defensemen who have completed their games from an offensive perspective. Brice O'Connor emerged for us in the second half last year."
The goaltending improved greatly last year and could take yet another step forward as Dan Sullivan enters his junior year.
"It's a great feeling to have really solid goaltending," Whitehead says. "We're very proud of what Dan did last year. This is the best we've felt from a goaltending perspective since we lost Ben Bishop.
"We're going to need it because we're not going to be as offensively potent as we've been the last couple of years. We're hoping to win some games 2-1 and 3-2, as opposed to the 5-4 nailbiters that we had last year. We're going to rely on our defense more than we have in the past.
"[A few years ago] we led the country in penalty kill. We've been there; we've done that. I can't wait to see how we embrace that new identity this year and run with it."
About the Black Bears
2011-12 overall record: 24-13-1
2011-12 Hockey East record: 17-9-1 (fourth)
2012-13 predicted finish: Jim: fifth; Dave: fourth
Key losses: F Spencer Abbott, F Bryan Flynn, F/D Matt Mangene, D Will O'Neill
Players to watch: F Joey Diamond, G Dan Sullivan, D Nick Pryor
Impact rookies: F Devin Shore, D Ben Hutton
Why the Black Bears will finish higher than predicted: The strong incoming freshman class will contribute right away and a stronger defensive presence makes up for the diminished offense.
Why the Black Bears will finish lower than predicted: After years of relying on a juggernaut power play and a strong top line, the Black Bears fail to make up for deficits there with a more defensive posture.
The following is a self-policing forum for discussing views on this story. Comments that are derogatory, make personal attacks, are abusive, or contain profanity or racism will be removed at our discretion. USCHO.com is not responsible for comments posted by users. Please report any inappropriate or offensive comments by clicking the "Flag" link next to that comment in order to alert the moderator.
Please also keep "woofing," taunting, and otherwise unsportsmanlike behavior to a minimum. Your posts will more than likely be deleted, and worse yet, you reflect badly on yourself, your favorite team and your conference.


text: A very hot surge of air will move into eastern North Carolina this week. Highs will reach the middle to upper 90s each day through the upcoming weekend. Highs on Friday and Saturday could break above 100 degrees at some inland locations. The relative humidity will be in the moderate to high range giving us heat indices of 105 to 110 degrees. A heat advisory will likely be posted for each afternoon and early evening. Temperatures overnight will drop only into the middle to upper 70s. Little relief for the extreme heat is expected until early next week when a cold front drops into the area. The beaches should see generally sunny skies at the end of the week as highs reach the upper 80s to lower 90s. Ocean temperatures range from the lower 80s along the Crystal Coast to the 70s along the Outer Banks. The tropics still remain quiet so it should be a great beach weekend.


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I bet you are not gonna bore watching this movie. I can keenly watch it hundreds of times. Must watch movie. Real value for money.


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Feb. 28, 2004
Nancy Bowden had her fellow five seniors helped the Bulldogs to a 76-65 win over Loyola on Senior Day at Hinkle Fieldhouse. Bowden scored her 1,000th point on a free throw with just under a minute to play, giving her a game-high 20 points on the afternoon. She was one of four Bulldogs in double figures, as Butler finishes the regular season at 9-7 in Horizon League play and 13-14 overall. Loyola finishes at 11-16 (6-10).
Bowden's 20 points came on 6-of-10 shooting from the field and an 8-of-11 performance from the line. Despite going to the bench with her second foul midway through the first half, the Cincinnati, Ohio native still dished out three assists and tied Angel Mason for a team-high six rebounds.
Mason, Cortney Urquhart and Ellen Hamilton each contributed 12 points on the afternoon. While Loyola out-shot the Bulldogs from the field (44 percent to 42 percent), Butler limited the Ramblers to 3-of-16 shooting from three-point range, a far cry from the 13 bombs Loyola hit ten days ago in their overtime win over the Bulldogs.
Butler started five of their seniors Saturday and Loyola started out quick, jumping out to a 17-11 advantage eight minutes into the game. The Bulldogs would settle down and take a 33-30 lead into the locker rooms.
The Bulldogs opened the second half with a 10-2 run that included two Hamilton treys and sustained a double-digit lead for most of the half. The Ramblers got the lead to five at 67-62 with just under four minutes remaining before Bowden scored eight points in the next three minutes to put the game out of reach. She, and the four other seniors on the floor--senior Lisa Pryor dressed, but did not play due to an ACL tear--left to a standing ovation after Bowden hit a free throw with 53 seconds to play, giving her exactly 1,000 career points.
Loyola out-rebounded the Bulldogs, 44-39, but committed 17 turnovers to Butler's season-low eight. Danielle Lonie and Meskhenet Lands each had 16 points to lead the Ramblers.
Butler, winners of five of their last six, are assured of the fifth seed in the upcoming league tournament despite having a chance to tie Cleveland State for fourth in the standings depending on the outcome of the Vikings' game tonight.
The Bulldogs will travel to Cleveland to meet the Vikings, Thursday, in the quarterfinals of the Horizon League Tournament. The tip is set for 7 p.m. and the game will be broadcast live on www.butlersports.com.


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Click on a thumbnail to go to Google Books.
Seeking Sicily: A Cultural Journey Through Myth and Reality in the Heart…
by John Keahey
No current Talk conversations about this book.
For someone who knows nothing about Sicily, this book might be a starting point. This is basically a record of the author's drives around the island stopping at various towns and writing about the inhabitants and famous residents. It's odd that he manages to do so much driving and totally miss Taormina, a bit turisty but a must-see for the spectacular backdrop. Other than knowing only a little Italian and one would guess no Sicilian, the author tells us little about himself. For his interviews he hires translators. The style is bland and uninteresting. The book would have benefited from editing due to the errors.
Most egregiously, he describes Antonello da Messina's famous Palermo Madonna (The "Virgin Annunciate"):
" It shows Mary being interruped at her reading by an unseen angel who informs her of her Immaculate Conception. The painting shows her expression the instant she is told she is pregnant."
The Immaculate Conception, as any Catholic knows, is the doctrine that Mary herself was conceived without Original Sin. It does not refer to the conception of Christ..
Elsewhere he describes the interior silence of the duomo in Siracusa:
"I had the same sensation in Milan when I strolled into the duomo there: absolute silence within a vastness incomprehensible to the American psyche. The world, in all its noise and grime, is completely shut out. Such a setting is a wonderful place to sit, observe the commingling of ancient and medieval, and take stock after a long and tiring day."
I have an American psyche, so please don't presume to speak for me. I subscribe to Terence's "Homo sum, humani nihil a me alienum puto" (I am a human being, I consider nothing human as alien to me". Why in the world would silence or architectural vastness be incomprehensible?
Finally there are a few short paragraphs about wine production, and though the author describes the food he eats in detail, it appears he never tasted any wine. Sicilian wines are very good and unique, so it is frustrating that they are neglected in the book.
Cultural journey through Sicily!
References to this work on external resources.
Wikipedia in English
Amazon.com Product Description (ISBN 0312597053, Hardcover)
"Keahey's exploration of this misunderstood island offers a much-needed look at a much-maligned land."—Paul Paolicelli, author of Under the Southern Sun
Sicily is the Mediterranean's largest and most mysterious island. Its people, for three thousand years under the thumb of one invader after another, hold tightly onto a culture so unique that they remain emotionally and culturally distinct, viewing themselves first as Sicilians, not Italians. Many of these islanders, carrying considerable DNA from Arab and Muslim ancestors who ruled for 250 years and integrated vast numbers of settlers from the continent just ninety miles to the south, say proudly that Sicily is located north of Africa, not south of Italy.
Seeking Sicily explores what lies behind the soul of the island's inhabitants. It touches on history, archaeology, food, the Mafia, and politics and looks to nineteenth- and twentieth-century Sicilian authors to plumb the islanders' so-called Sicilitudine. This "culture apart" is best exemplified by the writings of one of Sicily's greatest writers, Leonardo Sciascia. Seeking Sicily also looks to contemporary Sicilians who have never shaken off the influences of their forbearers, who believed in the ancient gods and goddesses.
Author John Keahey is not content to let images from the island's overly touristed villages carry the story. Starting in Palermo, he journeyed to such places as Arab-founded Scopello on the west coast, the Greek ruins of Selinunte on the southwest, and Sciascia's ancestral village of Racalmuto in the south, where he experienced unique, local festivals. He spent Easter Week in Enna at the island's center, witnessing surreal processions that date back to Spanish rule. And he learned about Sicilian cuisine in Spanish Baroque Noto and Greek Siracusa in the southeast, and met elderly, retired fishermen in the tiny east-coast fishing village of Aci Trezza, home of the mythical Cyclops and immortalized by Luchino Visconti's mid-1940s film masterpiece, La terra trema. He walked near the summit of Etna, Europe's largest and most active volcano, studied the mountain's role in creating this island, and looked out over the expanse of the Ionian Sea, marveling at the three millennia of myths and history that forged Sicily into what it is today.
(retrieved from Amazon Thu, 12 Mar 2015 18:14:46 -0400)
Keahey's exploration of this misunderstood island offers a much-needed look at a much-maligned land.Paul Paolicelli, author of Under the Southern Sun Sicily is the Mediterranean's largest and most mysterious island.
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Feb. 16, 2014
AUSTIN, Texas - Louisiana Tech's pitching staff held IPFW to only four hits and one earned run but two costly errors in the bottom of the third inning proved costly as the Lady Techsters fell 5-3 in the final game of the Texas Classic on Sunday.
"We are 2-7 and I'm not happy with it, but I know this team has great potential," said Tech head coach Mark Montgomery. "We are giving people runs (with our physical and mental mistakes), and we are having to earn our runs. If we could eliminate one inning out of every ball game so far - and I know we can't - we could be 7-2 right now against a tough schedule."
Bianca Duran (1-5) got the start in the circle for the Lady Techsters (2-7) and held the Mastodons (7-2) offense in check through the first two innings. However, in the bottom of the third inning of a scoreless game, IPFW capitalized on a pair of LA Tech miscues.
Alex Bousquet reached on a one-out fielding error by Tech shortstop Anna Cross and advanced to second on an infield single by Larissa Franklin. With runners on first and second and one out, Ashleigh Bousquet hit a line drive to centerfield that Tori Charters misplayed off her glove, allowing one run to score and placing runners on second and third.
Duran then recorded a strikeout for the second out of the frame. However, Duran then surrendered a three-run home run deep over the centerfield fence to Hillary Kartman as the Dons increased their advantage to 4-0. All four runs were unearned.
"That game should have been 1-1 going into bottom of seventh inning," Montgomery said. "Both teams made errors that cost them. I've said from beginning I think our pitchers are one of our strengths. If we had not made mistakes behind them, our numbers could be much better. We just have to keep getting better. If a mistake is made behind them, they have to stay the course and trust their defense."
After IPFW added a run in the bottom of the fifth inning to up its lead to 5-2, Tech loaded the bases with no one out in the top of the sixth. Alayna Kipp and Hailey Winter both singled to start the frame, chasing Don's ace Miranda Kramer from the game.
"The last two games I thought our offensive approach was correct, and we were doing a lot of things right," Montgomery said. "(IPFW's) pitcher might be the best we have seen this year. She is legit. We put up six hits and drew four walks on her and chased her out of the game. Coach Murphy did a great job of putting our kids in place to be successful, and we stuck to the game plan."
Megan Flenniken came on in relief of Kramer and promptly recorded back-to-back strikeouts. Kristen Miles then singled into the hole at second base, scoring Courtney Lowe. However, pinch runner Lindsey Neyland was thrown out trying to score from second on the play, ending the inning with the score 5-3.
Tech had one final chance in the top of the seventh, but Flenniken retired all three batters she faced in order to preserve the win.
Duran took the loss for Tech, allowing four runs - zero earned - on only three hits and no walks in 3.0 innings of action. Tufi pitched 2.0 innings in relief, allowing one run on one hit and one walk. Cross retired all three batters she faced in 1.0 inning of action.
Offensively, Tech was led by Miles (1-4, 1 RBI), Duran (1-4), Alayna Kipp (1-3), Winter (1-1, 2 walks), Godwin (1 run), Charters (1-1), Hill (1-2, 1 run) and Lowe (1 run).
The Lady Techsters will return to action Wednesday when they host Grambling State at 6 p.m. at the Tech Softball Complex.


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Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys news, rumors and injuries
Tue, 31 May 2016 14:22:01 -0700
Dallas Cowboys QB Dak Prescott and DE Charles Tapper signed their four-year rookie deals Tuesday, May 31. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Comment () | Share: | Source: NFL
Cowboys | Dallas won't give away Ronald Leary
Fri, 27 May 2016 18:09:58 -0700
Dallas Cowboys OG Ronald Leary has been told he can look around for a potential trade partner, but executive vice president Stephen Jones said Dallas isn't "in the business" of trading good players for nothing.
Comment () | Share: | Source: The Dallas Morning News - Kate Hairopoulos
Cowboys | Alfred Morris not available
Thu, 26 May 2016 19:09:27 -0700
Dallas Cowboys RB Alfred Morris and RB Darren McFadden are not available for trade, executive vice president Stephen Jones said Thursday, May 26.
Fantasy Tip: After selecting Ezekiel Elliott with the No. 4 pick in the NFL draft, the fantasy value of both McFadden and Morris takes a major hit. McFadden is worth grabbing later in drafts, but it would take an injury to Elliott for McFadden to become a starting-caliber back.
Comment () | Share: | Source: Fort Worth Star-Telegram - Charean Williams
Cowboys | Ezekiel Elliott must earn starting job
Thu, 26 May 2016 10:20:54 -0700
Dallas Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott must compete to earn a starting role this year, according to running backs coach Gary Brown. Elliott was drafted fourth overall by the Cowboys and will compete with RBs Darren McFadden and Alfred Morris. "It's a lot faster pace," Elliott said. "The game moves so much faster. Yesterday, I'm not going to lie, I was a little bit shell-shocked. But today I came out. I was a little bit more prepared and was more ready mentally so it was a little bit easier for me."
Fantasy Tip: This is probably just coach speak. Dallas wouldn't have used a top-five pick on a running back if they weren't prepared to start him immediately. Elliott was the top back in the draft by a long shot, and he should contribute nicely for fantasy owners immediately behind an elite offensive line. Take Elliott as an RB2 with upside for more in 2016.
Comment () | Share: | Source: Fort Worth Star-Telegram - Clarence E. Hill Jr.
Cowboys | Ezekiel Elliott working with second team
Wed, 25 May 2016 22:59:33 -0700
Dallas Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott has been working with the second-team offense during organized team activities this week. RB Darren McFadden has been working with the starting offense.
Fantasy Tip: It is not known if Elliott will be the starter in Week 1, but he likely will become the starter at some point during his rookie season. Elliott should be considered a No. 2 running back in most leagues because should see plenty of touches each week. McFadden should be considered a No. 3 running back since he likely will see his carries drop as the season goes on.
Comment () | Share: | Source: Fort Worth Star-Telegram - Clarence E. Hill Jr.
Cowboys | Tony Romo feeling great
Wed, 25 May 2016 12:26:46 -0700
Dallas Cowboys QB Tony Romo (collarbone) isn't worried about his long-term future and thinks he can play four or five more years. He also said he feels "ahead of the game" in his offseason work. Quarterbacks coach Wade Wilson said Romo has looked "phenomenal" in offseason workouts.
Fantasy Tip: The biggest issue with Romo is his terrible track record of health. He has the weapons around him on offense and an elite offensive line at his disposal to put up big numbers if he can just stay healthy. Health risks make him more of a fringe QB1, though, and he's safer as your backup.
Comment () | Share: | Source: ESPNDallas.com - Todd Archer
Cowboys | Dez Bryant to have X-rays
Wed, 25 May 2016 12:18:20 -0700
Dallas Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (foot) will have more X-rays on his injured right foot soon, and he hopes to participate more as the offseason progresses. Bryant admitted that he needs to be patient during his recovery, but said he feels great. He did participate in the early part of organized team activities Wednesday, May 25, before his rehabilitation.
Fantasy Tip: It would behoove the Cowboys, and Bryant, to take it easy with him this offseason. Bryant is no stranger to the injury bug. If he comes into the 2016 healthy then he's worth selecting as a midrange WR1.
Comment () | Share: | Source: ESPNDallas.com - Todd Archer
Tue, 24 May 2016 15:23:37 -0700
Undrafted free-agent DE Zach Wood (Southern Methodist) signed with the Dallas Cowboys Tuesday, May 24.
Comment () | Share: | Source: NFL
Tue, 24 May 2016 15:17:26 -0700
Dallas Cowboys DE Jason Neill was waived Tuesday, May 24.
Comment () | Share: | Source: NFL
Cowboys | Ronald Leary wants trade
Tue, 24 May 2016 14:01:58 -0700
Dallas Cowboys OG Ronald Leary was not present for the first day of organized team activities Tuesday, May 24, and has request a trade. Leary has not yet participated in any of the Cowboys' offseason program. He wants to return to a starting role, but the Cowboys don't want to pay Leary the $2.553 million he's due as a backup.
Comment () | Share: | Source: The Dallas Morning News
Cowboys | Jaylon Smith will be used in middle
Fri, 20 May 2016 12:22:35 -0700
Dallas Cowboys LB Jaylon Smith (knee) will be used at middle linebacker when he is healthy enough to play.
Comment () | Share: | Source: ESPNDallas.com - Todd Archer
Cowboys | Jaylon Smith signs rookie deal
Fri, 20 May 2016 08:53:40 -0700
Dallas Cowboys LB Jaylon Smith (knee) signed his four-year, $6.494 million rookie deal Friday, May 20. He will receive a $2.9 million signing bonus. Smith will likely open training camp on the non-football injury list and could miss his entire rookie season.
Comment () | Share: | Source: ESPNDallas.com - Todd Archer
Cowboys | Terrance Williams not worried
Thu, 19 May 2016 13:46:11 -0700
Dallas Cowboys WR Terrance Williams is in the final year of his rookie contract, but he's focused on the upcoming season, not a possible extension or new team. "Now, I'm just ready to be quiet and work and let my play speak for [itself]," Williams said. "You can always talk [about] what you're going to do and then if it doesn't go as planned, it's like a slap to your face. So I'm just ready to work and just show my play."
Fantasy Tip: Williams enters the 2016 season as the Cowboys' No. 2 wide receiver again behind Dez Bryant. He doesn't catch a ton of balls, but he is a legitimate deep threat, gaining a career-high 840 yards in 2015. Williams should be viewed as a WR4 this season.
Comment () | Share: | Source: ESPNDallas.com - Todd Archer
Cowboys | Darius Jackson could make team
Wed, 18 May 2016 19:58:04 -0700
Dallas Cowboys RB Darius Jackson may have a chance to make the 53-man roster because RB Lance Dunbar (knee) is expected to start the season on the Physically Unable to Perform list.
Comment () | Share: | Source: ESPNDallas.com - Todd Archer
Cowboys | Ezekiel Elliott signs rookie contract
Wed, 18 May 2016 11:53:59 -0700
Dallas Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott signed his rookie four-year deal Wednesday, May 18, worth $24.9 million. The deal includes a $16.3 million signing bonus. All first-round picks have a fifth-year option in their deals.
Fantasy Tip: Elliott has received a lot of hype already, and he has arguably the best offensive line in front of him. He's a midrange RB2 in fantasy, but the hype may make it tough to snag him as such.
Comment () | Share: | Source: ESPNDallas.com - Todd Archer
KFFL: Sports Link of the Day
Dallas Cowboys Player News


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It's not all Alberts' fault, okay it mostly is
With Alberts throwing the Canucks under the bus multiple times Saturday night at GM Place in the Kings and Canucks second game of the series it's no surprise that he's getting benched tonight in favour of either Rome or Baumgartner (Baumer if Rome isn't ready to play). Now there's no excuse for his penalties, they've been stupid, undisciplined, and untimely. They've been a result of laziness and hopefully the benching gives him the reality check that he needs to fix things should he see ice time again in this series, let alone the playoff run. Alberts is a big guy and he can be a monster physically, unfortunately his lack of discipline hurts the team much more than anything else.
Now I'm not condoning Alberts' play, but one thing concerned me just as much as his penalty taking on Saturday. While the Canucks have dominated the play through games one and two, they've run into Jonathan Quick who's surprising everyone. The Canucks quality of chances has been high, but Quick has stood on his head to keep the Kings in this series when they should have been blown out in game one and heading back to LA down 2-0 in the series. What's worrying is that in game two the Canucks had four shots in the first period and five shots in the third period of the Western Conference Quarterfinal game. The Canucks were lucky to come out of the first with a two goal lead on only four shots, but in a first period where you need to set the tone, and in a third period where you're gunning to break a tie game, you're not doing yourself any favours by missing shots and coming away with shot totals you can count on the fingers of one hand.
Quick's proven that he's brought his A-game to the series and it's in cases like this that you're going to have to go with quantity over quality. Cliche's are around for a reason and when they say "throw things on net, good things happen" it's because it's worked. Now the Canucks have had some outstanding chances, they should have walked away with a game one victory, but instead they won a close affair in OT. They key to tonight's game is going to be more than Alberts being benched and staying out of the penalty box. The Canucks need to get more pucks on net. They have an explosive offense that seems to be in the right place at the right time most of the night, it's just a matter of tiring Quick out and trying to force a large rebound to capitalize upon.


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College Hockey:St. Cloud Pulls Shocking Upset Over No. 2 UMD
Huskies Net Three in Three Minutes After UMD Swaps Goalies
ST. CLOUD, Minn. — In one of the biggest upsets in NCAA women's hockey history, St. Cloud State stunned No. 2 Minnesota-Duluth on Saturday with a 4-3 come-from-behind victory.
The Bulldogs (23-3-2, 21-3-2 WCHA) led 3-1 at the halfway point when UMD coach Shannon Miller subbed No. 3 goalie Anna-Kaisa Piiroinen into the game. The Huskies (8-18-4, 6-15-3) lit up Piiroinen for three goals in the final three minutes of the second period and UMD could not recover. No team with as many as 18 losses other than the 2002 St. Cloud State team had ever beaten an opponent ranked as high as No. 2 in the USCHO.com poll.
Assistant captain Carrie Holdorf scored the game-tying and game-winning goal, two of the other four Husky seniors scored the other two goals, and sophomore goalie LauriSt.Jacquesstopped 34 of 37 shots in the stunning upset. The defeat was a serious blow to the WCHA regular season championship hopes of the Bulldogs.
UMD jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first period. Karine Demeule scored first, and Caroline Ouellette doubled the score at 10:48 when she stripped the puck at St. Cloud's blueline and walked around two Husky defenders for the unassisted goal. But unlike yesterday's 4-0 defeat in which the Huskies trailed 3-0 after a period, St. Cloud maintained a heightened level of intensity after falling behind.
"The biggest difference from yesterday to today was the fact that we didn't play well on Friday for about 10 minutes," said SCSU coach Jason Lesteberg. "Today, our team played all 60 minutes and we capitalized on our opportunities. I give a lot of credit to our defense. The girls stayed aggressive and kept believing in each other. As a result, we got a big win."
SCSU senior forward Melanie Pudsey netted her first goal of the season at 11:29 in the first period to put the Huskies on the scoreboard. Her goal was set up by Bobbie Anderson and Jacqueline Jensen, who fought hard on the boards behind the net to get a great pass to Pudsey, who was waiting in the low slot. Although the Huskies were outshot 11-5 in the period, they went into their locker room for the first intermission down just 2-1.
In the second period, the Bulldogs increased their lead to 3-1 at 8:22 with a goal from Samantha Hough. Just after the midway point in the period, UMD pulled Riitta Schaublin, the national leader in save percentage, for Anna-Kaisa Piiroinen, who hadn't played since Jan. 29.
The Huskies took full advantage of the rusty UMD keeper. Captain Tina Ciraulo was the first to score on a wrist-shot goal from the crease off a pass across the low slot by Jensen.
"We did not care which goaltender was in the net for the Bulldogs," Ciraulo said. "We knew we could win today. We were mentally ready to go, we played all 60 minutes, and our hard work finally paid off."
Holldorf came through with a crucial goal at 18:31 to tie the game at 3-3 as she was assisted by Ashley Stewart. The game-winning goal came just before the second intermission at 19:41 with Holldorf's clutch backhander in the low slot.
The Bulldogs inserted their third goaltender, Patricia Elsnore (Sautter), at the beginning of the third period. The final frame proved to be intense as both teams had eight shots on goal, and neither team was able to score.
UMD had one last chance to tie the game with 12 seconds left off a faceoff in the Husky zone. However, the tough defense of the Huskies and the big play of SCSU goaltender Lauri St. Jacques paid off in the end. The win snapped a three-game St. Cloud losing streak, and it was their third win in history over UMD.
UMD has next weekend off but returns to action February 26-27 when they host arch-rival Minnesota. UMD will retire Maria Rooth's jersey on the 26th and honor the current UMD seniors. St. Cloud State will visit North Dakota for a pair.
Correction: This page initially stated that St. Cloud State was the first team with 18 losses ever to beat a team ranked as high as No. 2 in the USCHO.com poll. In fact, the Huskies also accomplished this feat against UMD on Feb. 24, 2002. The Bulldogs were ranked No. 3 in the country from Jan. 21 to Feb. 11 and from Mar. 4 to Mar. 11, but they were ranked No. 2 during the period in between. USCHO.com regrets this error.
The following is a self-policing forum for discussing views on this story. Comments that are derogatory, make personal attacks, are abusive, or contain profanity or racism will be removed at our discretion. USCHO.com is not responsible for comments posted by users. Please report any inappropriate or offensive comments by clicking the "Flag" link next to that comment in order to alert the moderator.
Please also keep "woofing," taunting, and otherwise unsportsmanlike behavior to a minimum. Your posts will more than likely be deleted, and worse yet, you reflect badly on yourself, your favorite team and your conference.


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By: A.K. Anderson
Number of Reviews: 1179
Average Score: 66
Visit Footville
Heads Up!
This review is outdated. Information may be inaccurate.
This review is outdated. Information may be inaccurate.
I don't know where these guys get all the boxes of shoes from, but there is no skimping on set decoration on Footville. Scenes take place in a shoe store where the chicks arrive looking for a special offer and that is exactly what they get: free shoes and the guys get to fuck them. I guess this unique deal has finally expired, though, because it's been almost two and a half years since they last added a scene.
Footville does a good job of melding hardcore porn with a foot-fetish angle. The scenes begin with the chicks trying on shoes and we get plenty of nice looks at their feet both in and out of them. When the "special offer" part gets going, the feet are not forgotten as the licking, sucking and fucking heat up. You get toe sucking, footjobs and, of course, the sticky foot money shot.
There are currently 34 movies. It's not a large number, but the scenes last a good 30 minutes and each one can be downloaded in Windows Media format with good-quality playback. The streaming video looks good as well and many scenes include a file for portable devices. There are also 34 picture galleries with sharp images that can be downloaded in Zip files.
Site design is great. There are a few ads scattered around, but they aren't very distracting and navigation is simple. There is a menu at the top of the page as well as a helpful site navigation bar that provides links back to each page you visited.
Your membership gets you access to 10 bonus sites from the Muffia network, including Its Real, Cum Fu, Mollys Life and My Sexy Life. Many of the sites are no longer updating, although some haven't gone as long without an update as this one has.
If you came for the feet, you will see plenty of sexy ones before, during and after hardcore situations. I must say that despite the more mainstream sex thrown in, the cameraman always tries to keep the feet in frame at all times. The real problem is that without updates, Footville can't really go toe to toe with the competition and expect to win.
* Please include a pro and a con about the site. Balance is essential in making a comment worthwhile. Scores without comments will be deleted.
* Watch out for ratings of zero and 100. In our opinion, there is no such thing as a site that is absolutely perfect or completely worthless.


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Way out on a limb
George Muller spent decades trusting in the Lord
I was given just enough George Muller to inoculate myself. I kept hearing the same recycled incident in which his orphanage has no bread or milk for the next meal, and the needed provisions turn up on his doorstep immediately after prayer. With this token praise of the miraculous we establish our credentials. But whether by a conspiracy conscious or unconscious, the rest of the Muller story is carefully kept under wraps.
Everybody knows the 19th-century Prussian founded homes for poor children in Bristol, England, but I never heard why. The care and spiritual training of orphans was only the secondary reason. The first was apologetic, in the most glorious sense: "Our goal is to show the world and the Church that even in these last evil days, God is ready to help, comfort, and answer the prayers of those who trust in him" (The Autobiography of George Muller).
And the man put his sovereigns where his mouth was. The Lord had made promises and Muller was of a mind to go all the way out on the limb. "Bring the full tithe into the storehouse. . . . And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need" (Malachi 3:10). So the 14-year-old who played cards till two in the morning the night his mother died, and went drinking the next day, became a living lightning rod of our universal fears that God will not come through if we surrender everything.
Early on (1829) he decided to refuse a paycheck, and that remained his policy to the end. It started as a simple matter of conscience as a young pastor: "I began to have conscientious objections against receiving a salary by renting pews. According to James 2:1-6, this practice is against the mind of the Lord because the poor cannot afford as good a seat as the rich." What a fanatic and troublemaker.
Muller decided that "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you" meant something like "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." He writes in his journal: "My wife and I had the grace to take the Lord's commandment in Luke 12:33 literally: 'Sell that ye have and give alms.' We never regretted taking that step. God blessed us abundantly as He taught us to trust in Him alone. When we were down to our last few shillings, we told Him about our needs and depended on Him to provide. He never failed us."
To read Muller's autobiography is to be dragged through the agony and the ecstasy one day at a time. My friend who gave me the book warned that I would get bored because it's just page after page of diary entries about bread supplies and donations received in the nick of time. It sounded like the census lists in Numbers, but there turned out to be something engaging about a man living the life I wanted the courage to live.
"On the 6th, 7th, and 8th of January 1831, I repeatedly asked the Lord for money but received none. . . . I began to think it would be of no use to trust in the Lord this time. Perhaps I had gone too far in living by faith. But praise the Lord! . . . When I returned to my room only ten minutes later, the Lord sent deliverance. A sister brought us two pounds four shillings. The Lord triumphed, and our faith was strengthened."
Decades of Januaries later, journal entries are similar-except for the increase of faith that is always the Lord's deposit for years of testing and tasting.
January 4, 1859: I received seven thousand pounds left entirely at my disposal for the work of God. When I decided to build for four hundred and fifty orphans, instead of three hundred, I needed several thousand pounds more. I was fully assured that God would give me the money because I made the decision in reliance on Him and for the honor of His name. . . ."
Well, January's here. What do you say? How about this time around we do something completely different?
If you have a question or comment for Andrée Seu, send it to firstname.lastname@example.com.


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I think either, the Demo Login is broken or I'm to stupid for that captcha. When I go to
http://www.testzimbra.com/zimbraDemo...moCreation.jsp and try to solve the captcha, the page reloads and presents me a new one, what seems to be the "you failed" operation. I tried that like ten times without success... I think it is buggy.


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The Springfield Diocese says Pope Francis has named Monsignor Carl Kemme to head up the Catholic Diocese in Wichita, Kansas.Kemme is currently the vicar general. Bishop Thomas John Paprocki says the Pope's choice is a wise one.
Kemme has worked in the diocese in different roles for last couple of decades. He replaces Bishop Michel Jackels who is heading up the Archidocese of Dubuque, Iowa. Kemme will be introduced in Wichita Thursday.


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Governments throughout Europe have been keen to show that their policies towards "illegal migrants" are tough. As a result, a growing number of refugees and asylum seekers who enter countries without valid travel documents are being detained.
There has been a significant increase in the use of detention at every stage of the asylum process. Some Member States automatically detain all asylum seekers, while often failing to grant the right to a dignified standard of living during the reception phase to people in detention. De facto detention is particularly common in countries with inadequate reception facilities.
Detention is too frequently used in attempts to enforce returns or transfers. The maximum period for which people can be detained prior to removal has now been set to 18 months in the newly adopted EU Returns Directive.
The practice of detaining asylum seekers significantly impedes their access to the full range of rights during the asylum procedure. ECRE promotes the use of alternative non-custodial measures such as supervision systems, reporting arrangements, bail or guarantee systems, and the promotion of voluntary return through intensive and personalised counseling work prior to and during detention for all rejected asylum seekers.
On 18 June 2008, the European Parliament endorsed new EU-wide rules on returning irregular migrants back to where they came from. ECRE particularly regrets the fact that the agreement allows an excessive period of detention of up to 18 months as well as an EU-wide re-entry ban of 5 years for those forcibly returned.
► Detention should only ever be used as a last resort where non-custodial measures have been demonstrated not to work on an individual basis in accordance with the European Convention on Human Rights.
► Separated children should never be detained and those who have suffered trauma should get special consideration.
► Detainees should be given a clear understanding of the grounds of their detention, their rights in detention and should be able to have their detention challenged in court.
► ECRE strongly condemns the systematic use of detention as part of reception or determination procedures in any European state.
Related articles
Press releases
► 09.07.2012 NGO Statement on the death of a migrant in detention in Malta
► 03.12.2008 Review of European asylum policy: A promising start
► 19.06.2008 Returns Directive: EU fails to uphold Human Rights
ECRE Actions
► 29.11.2013 ECRE/ELENA Information Note on Syria
► 06.09.2013 AIDA Report "Not There Yet: An NGO perspective on Challenges to a Fair and Effective Common European Asylum System"
► 26.02.2013 ECRE Letter to Commissioner Malmstrom regarding transfer of competences in Greece
► 23.11.2012 Op-ed by Liz Fekete, Executive Director of the Institute of Race Relations
► 07.05.2012 166 NGOs call on the EU institutions to respect asylum seekers' right to liberty in EU asylum legislation
► 15.10.2010 Detention of migrants in Ukraine
► 14.05.2008 Joint ECRE and Amnesty International Letter to the EU Parliament on the Returns Directive


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Jobless Recovery
Jobless Rate for Gulf Vets Edges Down
Finally, they seem to be winning their latest battle
The shocking rate of unemployment among America's youngest veterans is finally seeing some improvement, according to the latest figures from the government. Continue Reading
U.S. Jobless Claims At Four-Month High, Cast Shadow Over Labor Market
WASHINGTON -- The number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment benefits rose to its highest level in four months last week, suggesting the labor market recovery lost some steam in March. Initial claims for state unemployment benefits increased 28,000 to a seasonally adjusted 385,000, the highest level... Continue Reading
Why Good Middle Class Jobs Are Vanishing, And They're Not Coming Back
In the U.S., the economic recovery that started in June 2009 has been called the third straight "jobless recovery." But that's a misnomer. The jobs came back after the first two. Continue Reading
Unemployment Claims Remain Unchanged
WASHINGTON -- The number of Americans filing new claims for jobless benefits was unchanged last week, pointing to a labor market that was treading water. Initial claims for state unemployment benefits were a seasonally adjusted 374,000, the Labor Department said on Thursday. The prior week's figure was... Continue Reading
3 Reasons Good Workers Don't Get Jobs (And What They Can Do About It)
With nearly 13 million unemployed Americans, you'd think there be no such thing as a worker shortage. But many U.S. employers continue to say that they can't find people to fill certain jobs. A recent CareerBuilder survey showed that despite the nation's high 8.2 percent unemployment rate, 38 percent of... Continue Reading
U.S. Jobs Data Confirm Worst Fears: Employers Not Hiring Much
If you're thinking the labor market feels lousy, just released data from the federal government will bolster your suspicions. The Labor Department said Friday that data from the nation's employers showed that they added only 69,000 jobs in May, far fewer than the 150,000 that analysts had expected, while a... Continue Reading
U.S. Filings For Unemployment Aid At A 5-Week High
By Christopher S. Rugaber WASHINGTON -- The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits rose last week to a five-week high, evidence that the job market remains sluggish. The Labor Department said Thursday that weekly applications for unemployment aid rose 10,000 to a seasonally adjusted 383,000. The... Continue Reading
U.S. Growth Slowed At Year's Start But Some See Rebound
By Paul Wiseman and Christopher S. Rugaber WASHINGTON -- Don't panic yet. The government reported Friday that the economy got off to a tepid start this year, but that doesn't foreshadow a repeat of the near-standstill that happened in 2011. "The economy is firmly on a growth trajectory," said Sung Won... Continue Reading
Don't Job Hunt Here: 5 Cities With Double The National Unemployment Rate
By 24/7 Wall Street When the U.S. labor market is discussed, the national figures naturally take center stage. But the job hunt picture across the country can be very different -- not just between states, but from city to city, too. The recent jobs figures for February show a great variation among the... Continue Reading
7 Reasons The Job Gains Could Last This Time
By Paul Wiseman WASHINGTON -- Wait - haven't we seen this movie before? Companies are generating waves of jobs, and unemployment is down. Continue Reading
Weekly Claims For Unemployment Rise But Trend Is Positive
By Christopher S. Rugaber WASHINGTON -- The number of people seeking unemployment benefits rose last week to a seasonally adjusted 377,000, after a nearly four-year low the previous week. The Labor Department said Thursday that weekly applications increased 21,000. Applications had plummeted two weeks ago... Continue Reading
Stock Market's Stagnant Year Means Smaller Bonuses On Wall Street
Workers who routinely track the balances of their 401(k) savings know that 2011 was a pretty dismal year for investing in stocks. The S&P 500, a broad stock index that includes about 75 percent of publicly traded U.S. companies, finished 2011 statistically where it began, meaning many investors ended the... Continue Reading
U.S. Unemployment Rate Falls As Economy Adds 200,000 Jobs
WASHINGTON -- A burst of hiring in December pushed the unemployment rate to its lowest level in nearly three years, giving the economy a boost at the end of 2011. The Labor Department said Friday that employers added a net 200,000 jobs last month and the unemployment rate fell to 8.5 percent, the lowest... Continue Reading
Slow Steady Employment Growth, More 'Virtual Jobs' On Tap For 2012
Though the job market by several measures remains sluggish, the employment outlook for 2012 calls for continued, albeit modest, improvement. A recent survey by Manpower Inc. shows that many U.S. businesses expect to hire more workers during the first three months of the new year. "Slow, but steady momentum... Continue Reading
Obama Says Jobless Rate Could Drop To 8 Percent
By Steve Peoples WASHINGTON (AP) -- Setting a new bar for the nation's economy, President Barack Obama said the United States unemployment rate could fall to 8 percent before he faces re-election next November. The unemployment rate, currently at 8.6 percent, hasn't been at or below 8 percent since he... Continue Reading
9 Steps To Landing A Job [Infographic]
As the current job market continues to prove, competition among job seekers remains stiff. More than 14 million Americans are looking for work, so securing an interview in itself is reason to celebrate. To get the job, however, applicants need to impress hiring managers on several levels, and the key to... Continue Reading
2011 Job Cuts Already Exceed 2010 Total
In yet another sign that recovery in the nation's labor market leaves much to be desired, a new report shows that employers cut more jobs in the first 11 months of 2011 than in all of 2010. Employers announced plans to eliminate 42,474 jobs in November, raising the total so far this year to 564,297... Continue Reading
Are Jobless Recoveries Really That Unusual? [Infographic]
By economists' determinations, the recent recession the nation endured beginning in December 2007 officially ended in mid-2009. But for many jobless Americans the pain still lingers. More than two years into the rebound, job creation remains tepid, leading some to refer to the current economic situation as a... Continue Reading
The Job Market For Bachelor's Degree Holders [Infographic]
The escalating cost of a college education has many young people wondering whether a bachelor's degree is worth the expense. Given the current lackluster state of the job market, some are deciding that it's not worth going into debt for tens of thousands of dollars only to find themselves on the unemployment... Continue Reading
More Jobs Being Created Online, Report Says
With the nation's unemployment rate continuing to languish at around 9 percent, many unemployed workers are left to wonder where the jobs are. A new report suggests they're increasingly found in the online world. What's more, these new employment opportunities aren't limited to the high-tech sector, but are... Continue Reading
Employers Post Most Job Openings In 3 Years During September
WASHINGTON -- U.S. employers advertised more jobs in September than at any other point in the past three years, a hopeful sign that companies may step up hiring. Businesses and governments posted 3.35 million job openings, the Labor Department said Tuesday. That's a 7 percent increase from August and the... Continue Reading
Poll Shows October Jobless Rate 'Down Sharply' Compared To September
More Americans are finding work, partly because of increased hiring for the holiday sales season, a new poll finds. The rate of joblessness as measured by Gallup fell to 8.3 percent in mid-October, down sharply from 8.7 percent at the end of September and 9.2 percent at August's end, the polling organization... Continue Reading
Layoffs Reach Highest Level In 2 Years
Layoffs surged in September to their highest level in two years, a new report shows, as employers cut nearly 116,000 workers last month. Reductions among the ranks of the military accounted for a large portion of September's job cuts, according the report, compiled by Challenger, Gray & Christmas, a... Continue Reading
Obama Proposal Would Ban Employers From Discriminating Against Unemployed
One problem that has bedeviled many jobless workers is the inability to apply for jobs simply because some employers won't consider them. Now, President Barack Obama wants to end the practice by making it illegal for employers to discriminate against job candidates because they are unemployed. Continue Reading
Underemployment Remains High -- And A Big Problem
Underemployment has been as much a frustrating feature of the recent job market as the nation's high unemployment rate. What makes a worker underemployed? A number of a factors, including the inability to find full-time work in a chosen field. Continue Reading
Obama Pushes Jobs Plan To Jumpstart Hiring
With the country's job creation engine stalled, President Barack Obama hopes to restart hiring again through a number of initiatives contained within the $447 billion American Jobs Act that he outlined last week. The legislation contains five key components aimed at helping small businesses grow and hire,... Continue Reading
As Economic Recovery Stalls, Incomes Slide, Poverty Rises
If you're feeling poorer than you did a decade ago, you're not alone. A broad swath of Americans are earning less than they did just a few years back, the federal government says. Continue Reading
U.S. Military, Taco Bell Top List Of Job Openings In August
Despite ongoing sluggishness in the U.S. economic recovery and fears of a double-dip recession, the economy continues to create jobs, albeit at a pace many wish would pick up. Job openings in the U.S. rose 4.5 percent in August compared to July, the second consecutive month of increase, according to analysis... Continue Reading
10 Recession-Proof Jobs That Are Hot Right Now [Infographic]
Very few industries seem to be hiring in this economy, beyond the much-hyped tech sector. However, there are careers -- many of them that pay well -- that are expected to grow by leaps and bounds in the next few years. Not surprisingly, many of the 10 jobs highlighted in the graphic below involve health care... Continue Reading
Can Obama's New Chief Economist, Alan Krueger, Create More Jobs?
There's no doubt that Alan Krueger, President Obama's newly named top economist, has his work cut out for him. From an economy that's seemingly stuck in a rut to a housing market immersed in doldrums, the nation's economic problems are many. Continue Reading


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Thousands of representatives from electronic and traditional media outlets descend on Austin every spring to report on all the creativity, innovation and inspiration that happens at the SXSW Interactive Festival. Other content about the event is published via personal and company blog posts.
One of our favorite recap essays comes from Martin Waxman, who wrote this account of the event in Marketing Media and PR in Canada
It's hard to get to Austin, Texas. Every Torontonian I talked to at South By Southwest earlier this month had a travel horror story to share. But if you brave the storms, delays, cancellations and rerouting, you find yourself in the middle of geek nirvana—five days of tech celebrities, ideas, networking and parties focused on social and digital media. And that's just SXSW Interactive. There are also the film and music festivals. But a guy can only take in so much…
Want to be part of SXSW Interactive in Austin next spring? Then mark your calendar for March 13-17, 2015 — and don't forget to purchase your badge in early August 2014 when the registration process begins.
Or, get a taste of the event much sooner by attending SXSW V2V, which occurs July 13-16 in Las Vegas.


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Okoboji, IA (KICD)– The Dickinson County Nature Center's live Osprey web cam is back up and live.
Kiley Roth tells KICD News that the camera was knocked down during a Spring storm and was put back up last week after the Osprey eggs hatched.
The chicks seem very healthy and are expected to be flying sometime in the next couple of weeks.
The osprey web camera can be viewed on the Dickinson County Conservation Board website.


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Mozilla grudgingly adopts DRM support in Firefox
Firefox will use proprietary EME code, after Mozilla bows to pressure
All future editions of Firefox will include digital rights management (DRM) technology, Mozilla has announced, even though it disagrees with Encrypted Media Extensions (EME) on principle.
The company has "little choice" but to implement the technology, as "most competing browsers and the content industry [are] embracing the W3C EME specification", according to a blog post by Andreas Gal, Mozilla's CTO.
Mozilla, along with the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), has been protesting against the incorporation of EME into the specifications for HTML5 by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C).
While the organisation isn't against DRM per se, it has argued that the majority of systems, including EME, are "overly burdensome for users" and can restrict even lawful use of content, such as buying a film on one device and trying to watch it on another.
It also disagrees with the fact EME uses proprietary code, which Mozilla is against on principle as an open source foundation.
However, some of the biggest content providers on the web - including Netflix, Microsoft and Google - have put their weight behind EME, leaving Mozilla no choice but to include it in all upcoming versions of Firefox.
"Mozilla would have preferred to see the content industry move away from locking content to a specific device … and worked to provide alternatives," Gal said.
"We have come to the point where Mozilla not implementing the W3C EME specification means that Firefox users have to switch to other browsers to watch content restricted by DRM… which can make up more than 30% of the downstream traffic in North America," he said.
Danny O'Brien, international director of the EFF, disagreed. "Mozilla and the W3C are both organisations with missions intended to defend and promote the open web. Both have now committed to a system of content control that is seen as a violation of those principles by many internet users."
"We need to challenge the baseless assertion that users don't mind DRM as long as they can watch House of Cards and … given the amount of compromise we have already suffered, we need to spell out the principles that we won't compromise on," he concluded.


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Braving the scorching heat, voters of Seemandhra turned out in large numbers to exercise the franchise for Lok Sabha and Assembly elections today even as sporadic violence and clashes between YSR Congress and TDP-BJP workers were reported from some areas especially Kadapa.
The state's Chief Electoral Officer Bhanwar Lal said the overall polling percentage in 13 districts of Seemandhra where elections were held for 25 Lok Sabha and 175 Assembly constituencies was an impressive 77-78 per cent, as per the tentative figures, with Guntur recording the highest 83 per cent and Visakhapatnam the lowest at 73 per cent.
The final polling percentage is expected to touch 80 per cent when all the reports are compiled, he said. In 2009, Seemandhra had recorded 76 per cent turn-out.
Clashes between TDP and YSRCP workers, and some violence by Maoists were reported during the day. The Maoists torched an Electronic Voting Machine and a vehicle at Palakagidi agency area (on Andhra-Odisha border) of Visakhapatnam district, forcing authorities to order repolling in one of the polling stations.
Several workers of YSR Congress and TDP were injured in clashes in Kadapa district. Police fired in the air in Guntur and Kadapa districts to disperse the workers.
About Rs eight crore in unaccounted-for cash was seized during the day, which took the total cash seized so far to Rs 152 crore since the model code of conduct came into force across Andhra Pradesh.
Having been out of power for a decade, today's elections were a do-or-die battle for TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu, who has forged an electoral alliance with BJP. His main rival is YSR Congress chief Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy.
Today's elections, the last general election to be held in the undivided Andhra Pradesh, were conducted amid a heavy security.
Elections in Telangana, which is to become the 29th state of the country, were held on April 30.
"In East Godavari district, one person died due to cardiac arrest and not in the clashes; another voter died near a polling station due to sun stroke and heavy consumption of liquor at Niziveedu in Krishna district," Bhanwar Lal said.
Most incidents of violence were reported from the districts of Kadapa, Chittoor and Guntur.
Police fired in the air to disperse a group of YSR Congress workers who allegedly tried to drive out rival party's polling agent from Ramireddypalem booth in Guntur district, police said.
Two senior