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Even though the school year 2013-2014 will start on September 15th, there are still many challenges. The second year students of fundamental school don't have classrooms; there is a lack of basic teaching material, classroom supplies and teachers.–By Lorraine Josiane Manishatse
In many communes of Burundi, the fundamental schools are facing serious challenges with the school year 2013-2014 will start. Last year, the Burundi Government made an effort in constructing classrooms reserved for the fundamental school, which was newly implemented. In each school, two classrooms for 1st Year fundamental students were built. But the majority of them were incomplete. It is unclear where pupils from the second year will study. Adele Bareha, the headmaster of Gikungu Primary School indicates that the fundamental school encounters many problems. "We have only three classrooms, two of them were occupied by pupils of 1st year. I don't know if the remaining one is big enough for the second year students," she comments.
"Last year, we used the classrooms without windows. During the rainy season, the students had trouble following the courses. Their rooms have not been cemented, which hinders pupils because there is dust in their classrooms. The lack of equipment is another handicap", Bareha regrets. The same case is observed at Ngagara4, Primary School. There are seven classrooms for the fundamental schools, but none of them have windows nor a cement floor.
Eularie Nibizi, the Chairwoman of STEB Teachers' Union, wonders if the Burundi Government forgot to plan for a budget to prepare for the new school year. "The first concern is the availability of the second year classrooms, and classrooms equipment", she states.
The second problem arises from the lack of basic teaching materials. "Last year, courses that were newly implemented in the fundamental school like art and entrepreneurship have not been taught. Teachers didn't have books to use. Reports have shown that in a majority of communes, those two courses were not given."
Nibizi calls upon the Burundi Government to take into consideration all problems that handicap the education system.
The Ministry of Education was not available to comment.


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According to recent report released by the National Association of State Budget Officers, states are receiving and spending more money on the Medicaid health insurance program. The Affordable Care Act allowed more people to enroll in Medicaid and gave states 90 to 100 percent reimbursements for new enrollees. In fiscal year 2014, the increase in federal funds to states was almost entirely due to additional Medicaid dollars. Although Medicaid spending rose in most states, it was mostly funded by the federal government. Federal funding for Medicaid increased 17.8 percent, but state dollars directed towards it grew only 2.7 percent, according to the report.
Click here to read more.

subset: commoncrawl


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Right off the bat, I'm not going to apologize for being an addict. I can't help it. It was bred into me from an early age and now it's just second nature.
But I have to come clean. After all these years of hiding behind closed doors, I have to admit - I am a big fan of professional wrestling.
Sure, I know it's fake (for the most part, although the performers do get serious injuries occasionally). Most wrestling fans know it's an act, but that doesn't matter to us. We love the sheer athleticism, the grand theatre of it all. It's good vs. evil, right vs. wrong, a microcosm of life played out for 60 minutes on your TV screen. Above all, it's a hoot.
My father was a big wrestling fanatic. No matter what we were doing on a Saturday, we dropped everything and settled in at 12:30 (back then it was an early afternoon gig) to watch stars of the ring do battle. I grew up idolizing Edouard Carpentier, booing Maurice 'Mad Dog' Vachon and laughing at the antics of Sweet Daddy Siki.
And when a travelling show would land in one of the local arenas, we were right there at ringside, yelling and cheering and tossing paper cups at the wrestlers. We marvelled at how The Sheik could bleed so profusely from a head wound yet still carry on and usually win his match, or how Haystack Calhoun could move his bulk so swiftly around the ring. Those were good days.
All that in preamble to let you know I possess a certain degree of passion for pro wrestling, and that's why I want to enthusiastically endorse a new book written by a familiar face to Observer readers. Gary Howard has authored "The Rassler from Renfrew," a loving look at the halcyon early days of professional wrestling with the focus on Renfrew's Larry Kasaboski, one of the first "superstars" of the game who went on to become a great promoter.
This book brought back countless fond memories for me. I never had the pleasure of seeing Larry Kasaboski in action, but his name was as familiar around our house as Mac Beattie. He was an icon in this part of the world and he made wrestling what it was for many like my father, who lived and died with their favourites (my dad's was a mean bugger called Gene Kiniski, who I never liked but pretended to in order to placate my father, who got pretty worked up during the matches).
At any rate, Gary's book takes readers through the dawn of professional wrestling during the Great Depression, right into the modern era of Vince McMahon's World Wrestling Entertainment empire.
Of course, wrestling afficionados will know that Larry's older brother, Alex, was a wrestler of some note himself and made a name for himself south of the border while Larry was becoming a trusted promoter with Northland Wrestling Enterprises north of the 49th.
The book explores their strong personal bond and how it kept them anchored through many hard years on the road, suffering innumerable injuries and sleeping on hard mattresses in questionable gin joints. Throughout it all, the Kasaboski clan never lost track of their roots, and many of their offspring still reside in and around Renfrew to this day.
Gary Howard's book is a loving look at "rassling" in its early years, full of colourful anecdotes and historic detail that makes it not only a 'must' for the wrestling buffs among us, but also for the many Ottawa Valley historians who can add "The Rassler from Renfrew" to their stockpile of local lore.
With Christmas just around the corner, this might be the perfect gift for that avid wrestling enthusiast in your family who also has an appreciation for the diverse and rugged ordeals many in Renfrew County went through during the lean years of the Great Depression, and the exciting times that came after.
It is published by General Store Publishing House (1-800-465-6072) or go to: www.gsph.com.
Then settle back, put your feet up and...get ready to rumble!


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> -----Original Message----- > From: firstname.lastname@example.com > [mailto:firstname.lastname@example.com] On Behalf Of Simon Montagu > Sent: Friday, October 08, 2004 10:39 AM > To: Martin Duerst > Cc: Richard Ishida; GEO; firstname.lastname@example.com > Subject: Re: New test for review: Bidi misc > > > ... > > I make no claim that this constitutes a statistically representative > survey, but it conforms to my a priori analysis: the natural Bidi > reading is to assume that the whole title is left-to-right without > embeddings. > The natural Hebrew and Arabic presentation is completely right to left, with no trace of left to right except in embedded foreign words or phrases. If there are no left to right words or phrases in the page, which is quite common, everything is right to left. Unfortunately, browsers and many other UIs are not yet fully developed in this respect. Jony > > >Received on Friday, 8 October 2004 09:14:45 UTC
This archive was generated by hypermail 2.3.1 : Wednesday, 21 September 2016 22:37:24 UTC


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While optimism has been the name of the game over the last year; optimism regarding the stock market, housing market, employment market, and the economic recovery as a whole, that same optimism has begun to waver. As home sales plummet, the slightest bad news sends the stock market lower, and unemployment seems stuck near its recent highs and threatens once again to push higher, the recovery is in doubt.
Whispers of a double dip recession have started to circulate and not without good reason. There seem to be few, if any reasonable indicators left out there that are pointing to a continued recovery, and even those areas that had been showing a significant turn around are beginning waver and break.
1. Existing Home Sales
While it seemed we had finally reached a bottom in the plunging housing market, trouble signs are beginning to reappear in real estate. With the massive 27% drop in existing home sales since last year, there appears little if any reason to expect a rebound in home prices anytime soon. Even with home prices lower than they have been in years, the expiration of the homebuyer's tax credit has left buyers with little incentive to purchase right now, and sellers left wondering if it's time to lower prices again or just walk away from their properties completely.
The qualms felt in the real estate market are in turn having ramifications among other areas of the economy. Besides pushing more homes into foreclosure and lowering the net worth of homeowner's, these fears are affecting consumer confidence as well. And with fewer people out there buying goods and utilizing services, companies are in turn lowering prices to induce spending, leaving the spectre of deflation looming.
2. Market Factors
Being on the cusp of the fall season means September, and in particular October, are right around the corner. Historically, these have not been the most awe inspiring of months for the stock market, even when times are good, let alone when the economy is struggling to recover. The stock market's rise last year has been tempered this year with concerns regarding the economy. With an optimistic earnings season largely come and gone, the markets now seem to be teetering on the brink of a strong plunge to the downside. Many feel that with last year's market comeback and this year's ability to maintain most of those gains, the market may be overbought and ripe for a pullback.
It likely won't take much in terms of bad news over the next several months or so to send the markets cascading downward. The buillishness of earlier this year is starting to sway, which is not surprising considering the poor economic news that continues to be reported on a regular basis. This seasonal aspect of stock market worry, paired with a weak real estate market soon to be entering the winter months, could be enough to force us into a double dip recession. While in a stronger economy a market swing might not have as large an impact upon the economy, these days it is being watched closely by many as an economic signal to cut and run.
3. Unemployment
While the government might want us to all think the unemployment rate is holding steady at 9.5%, and maybe even dropping a tenth of a percentage point here and there, many of us aren't fooled by these numbers. We are seeing just how the unemployment rate can be skewed by the recent effects of the drop off in temporary census employees. And if consumer confidence remains low, affecting retail sales into the holiday season, we might not see the seasonal workforce pick up as it normally does, hurting employment numbers even further. With the total unemployed and underemployed numbers typically hovering lately between 16-18% or thereabout, the real numbers of those who are looking for full-time work remains depressingly high.
4. Fear and Pessimism
If we want a true indication as to whether a double dip recession is imminent, we should really turn to those around us. Just take a moment and read the comments at the end of just about any economy related news story online, and you'll begin to get a sense for the American sentiment as to where the economy is heading. While there may be a few positive comments here and there, you're more likely to find a number of negative comments full of fear and pessimism ranging from everything from the stock market, to housing market, job market to manufacturing numbers.
If we've learned anything from the recession, it may be that following the lead of others (i.e. buying homes because everyone tells us they're a good investment) is a bad idea. However, much can still be learned from the sentiment of the masses. Ask friends and family what they're doing with their money, how or whether they're spending surplus cash, if they'll be buying a new car this year or building up their savings account instead. You'll likely find a multitude of sobering responses to your questions, and responses that will provide a much more honest and accurate view of the current economy and where it may be headed than any government statistic will provide.
Tom Becker is a freelance writer specialising in personal finances who writes for Money Choices about online savings accounts and various other financial products.


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Happy Sunday to you all! Today I am so excited to be sharing Day 2 of my Handmade Halloween video series for 2016 and I have the honor of being a guest designer for the fabulous Little Blue Button Stamps! I just adore the digital images available from this company and had the best time Copic coloring this sweet Little Witch! I think this is my favorite card I've made in a long time. I just loved everything about creating it!
I printed my Little Witch image on some Neenah 110 lb card stock. One of the great things about digital stamps is the ability to size them to fit the needs of your project. I wanted my image to be the focal point of my card so I printer her out a little larger but you could absolutely do a smaller image if you wanted to!
I decided to step outside of my comfort zone and attempt to create shadows in this scene to indicate that the moon is glowing from the upper left corner of the card. I have never really tried to be specific about my light source before and I loved the challenge of trying to color this way! Her curly hair was also really fun to color and pushed me to try something I'd never done before!
My background scene is created using Distress Inks and a few dies from my collection. At heart, I am a scene builder! This type of card is my favorite and it was such a blast to put this together!
Thank you so much for joining me! I hope you'll tune in for the rest of my Handmade Halloween video series as well as my second project for Little Blue Button Stamps, all coming later this month! Have a great rest of your weekend! Bye!
*Affiliate links used at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!


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We have had an amazing time these last couple months, working closely with the Sweet Clark and Lana forum in order to raise money for The Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation. Without further adieu, we are announcing our raffle winners!
First for the Lana Lang/Kristin Kreuk Raffle:
1) The winner of the 2x3 season two promotional poster is Esma Al-Kubeisy.
2) The winner of the Teddy Bear and the mug is Katie Silverman.
3) The winner of the Rolling Stone and TV Guide vintage Smallville magazines and a collection of clippings from magazines of Kristin Kreuk is Christina Nguyen.
For the Chloe Sullivan/Allison Mack Raffle:
1) The winner of the signed Legendary commercial DVD is Christopher Wannamaker.
2) The winner of the signed programs for The Apple Cove and Love, Loss, and What I Wore is Stephanie Van Iersel.
3) The winner of the unsigned play programs from both shows is Kristina Waters.
For the Australia Goodie Basket:
The winner is April Walsh.
Again, THANK YOU to everyone who has so generously contributed and made this drive successful. We cannot wait to start on the drive for 2013 and to further expand it throughout the Smallville fandom and the online community overall. We will announce the total probably either next Friday, the 9th, or the following week. We are waiting for when The Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation officially receives the check and gives us clearance to post the official grand total. I will say that it exceeded what our goals were and, for this, Sweet, Legendary Women, Inc. and I am sure The Reeve Foundation are very grateful.
So congratulations to all of you for your generosity and hard work and we'll keep you updated for when the grand total is announced!
[img_assist|nid=167|title=Lana and Chloe Congrats|desc=|link=none|align=center|width=200|height=150]
All images property of CW Television or Warner Brothers Television and Millar Gough Ink.


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Monthly Archives: October 2014
Existing Home Sales
Mortgage Market Update 10-21-14
The National Association of REALTORS® reported today that sales of Existing Homes rose by 2.4% from August until September to the highest level this year. Sales rose to 5.17 million units on an annualized basis and above the 5.11 million expected. Within the report it showed that cash sales made up 24% of all transactions and down from 33% last year this time. However, sales are down 1.7% from the 5.26 million units recorded in September of 2013.
Consumer spending for candy, costumes and decorations this October is setting up 2014 as the most ever spent for Halloween. Spending is set to hit $7.4 billion this year and is making it the second-fastest growing holiday for consumer spending. The National Retail Federation said that 43% of shoppers start Halloween shopping in the first two weeks of the month, while just under 25% wait until the last minute.
Fast food giant McDonald's reported on Tuesday that third-quarter earnings were worse than expected as the world's largest restaurant company struggles with sales in other parts of the globe. President and Chief Executive Don Thompson said that there was a significant decline in the numbers from the same period as last year due to a higher effective tax rate, unusual events in Europe and Asia, as well as under performance here in the U.S. McDonald's reported a profit of $1.07 billion in the latest quarter compared with $1.52 billion a year earlier.
Mortgage Market Guide 10-14-14
Bank earnings were abundant today with Citigroup, JPMorgan and Wells Fargo all reporting their quarterly numbers. Wells Fargo reported that revenues came in at $21.2 billion, above the $21.1 billion expected. JPMorgan reported a profit of $5.6 billion, a big surge from the $380 million in the same period last year, which was due to hefty legal bills. Lastly, Citigroup earned $1.15 per share, which was above the $1.12 expected.
The National Federation of Independent Business reported that its small business optimism index fell in September. Business owners are expecting an ease in profits and sales, a tightening in credit conditions, and are experiencing a harder time filling job openings with qualified candidates. The Index fell 0.8 points to 95.3, which is five points below where it was before the start of the Great Recession in late 2007.
The U.S. Stocks markets have lost some ground in the past few weeks. U.S. equities have lost almost $744 billion in values since October 8 due to slowing global growth concerns and as the Federal Reserve eases back on its latest stimulus program dubbed Quantitative Easing III (QE). The QE program was originally announced in November of 2008 to promote job and economic growth. The closely watched S&P 500 Stock Index has lost 6.3% since hitting its all-time closing high of 2,011 back on September 18, 2014.
Mortgage Market Update 10-08-14
The big gains in home prices in 2013 are coming back down to more normal levels as the final quarter of 2014 gets underway. CoreLogic, a leading global property information, analytics and data enabled services provider, reported on Tuesday that home prices, including distressed sales, rose by 6.45% from August 2013 to August 2014. A spokesperson from CoreLogic said, "continued moderation of home price appreciation is a welcomed sign of more balanced real estate markets and less pressure on affordability for potential home buyers in the near future." The company went on to say that national home prices will rise 5.2% from August 2014 to August 2015.
The Labor Department reported its JOLTS report, Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey on Tuesday, and the numbers were mixed. The report examines the job market and collects information from employers in different industries. The data collected concerns hires, job openings, layoffs, separations and recruitments. In August there were 4.8 million job openings on the last business day, up from 4.6 million in July along with 4.6 million hires, down from 4.9 million in July.
The holiday shopping season in 2014 is expected to show some nice gains as the economy continues to recover. The National Retail Federation (NRF) said that consumer confidence is likely to pick up in November and December as consumers search for steep discounts. Sales are expected to rise by 4.1% this year, the highest increase since the 4.8% increase in 2011. Total sales for 2014 could rise to $616.9 billion.


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Smyrna Yacht Club members will have an ''Evening in Paris'' dinner dance Saturday with a social hour beginning at 6 p.m. Decorations will carry out the blue, white and red colors of France's flag. There will be a gourmet menu of Medallions de Veau Bordelaise and Sole Meuniere served with Pouilly Fuisse. Music for dining and dancing will be provided by The Sandmen. Assisting Cmdr. and Mrs. Bernard Sechan as hosts for the evening will be Monique and Tex Carlisle, Abbie Lee and Edward Devereux, Jeffrey Fortescue and club manager John Osborne. Reservations are needed.
A champagne brunch is planned for Sunday at the club in observance of Father's Day. Music will accompany dining. Food service is at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.


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Finally! The last day of 21 for 31. Awesomely enough, Tricia is RIGHT NOW having a little brother for Georgia, and I could not be more thrilled. What a well behaved young man, to let his mom get in 31 of her posts and then decide to arrive!
Later on today Eli and I are going to take a walk in the rain, because last year at this time he couldn't walk and this year at this time we are totally going to stomp in some puddles, which is one of the main reasons I had a kid to begin with, so we could walk in the rain and stomp in puddles on a day when the air seems somehow lit, just right, by all the yellow leaves on the ground.
And later I hope to finally get my salted caramel hot chocolate and then I am going to go "borrow" some osage oranges from the side of the road to pile decoratively around my house. I heard these babies are going for $12 a pop in the big city. Maybe I should plant an osage orange tree in my yard and go into business.
If things get really crazy I might hunt down some white house paint and paint the front porch trim. And hopefully I will get to the Alameda Flea Market on Sunday but man, San Francisco and her crappy crappy weather is a pain in my ass. Mr. E is from Michigan and he melts in the rain and despite all my reassurance regarding "Oregon Sunshine" I think he is worried that Eli also inherited his rain melting properties and so if it rains we aren't going. Instead we'll lounge around the house hopped up on anti depressants (kidding, kidding) and left over halloween candy and I plan on investing in a large large bottle of (gluten free!) Maker's Mark, just for kicks.
Here's my meal plan for the next two weeks, since some of you expressed some interest. Recipes where I have them are linked.
1. Soba noodle salad with tofu or chicken
2. Crab if they have it with twice baked potatoes, or else shrimp of some kind, probably in lettuce cups with twice baked potatoes.
3. Some white fish something or other and almond green beans and brown rice pilaf
4. Pasta Fagioli soup, in my cast iron pot instead of a crock pot.
5. turkey sausage, red sauce, peppers, chard, over polenta
7. Fajitas
8. Garlic and mustard glazed chicken, spinach salad, yam fries
9. bbq chicken drumsticks, baked beans, cole slaw
11. Veggie lasagna sans noodles
12. Gluten free gnocchi, big green salad
13. Home made pizza (with gluten free crust)
14. Breakfast for dinner (gluten free pancakes, fruit salad, bacon).
Breakfast and Lunch Ideas:
irish oatmeal/poached egg on gf bread/yogurt and fruit/grapefruit
onigiri/tomato soup/salads/rice crackers and cottage cheese and an apple/tuna/avocado and toast and hummus/marinated salad/butternut squash soup/an egg cooked in tomato sauce with spinach
I am also going to attempt some gf lemon bars and some salted caramels, or else some caramel sauce to pour over ice cream or baked apples.
Filed under: Uncategorized | 3 Comments »


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Golf is a sport that Americans enjoy playing. For most golfers Bobby Orr Bruins Jersey , it is one medium of relaxation and unwinding. Some turned professional because of it while some just plays for fun. If you are one of the people along with a competitive side who enjoy playing golf. Then, it is given that you must hone your skills to stay on top, or rather, just improve.
Because of the advancing technology these days, golf training devices have already become available in the market. Golf training devices are things that enhance and teach golfers the basics of the game most especially for starters.
So Jake DeBrusk Womens Jersey , you must choosethe appropriate golf training devices that help you improve in every area of your game. However, for beginners, the first thing that should be refined is learning the proper grip before anything else takes place. This is because the grip is the start of creating a good swing and avoiding bad golf flights. So, golf training grip should be taken into a huge consideration first. Remember that this can be difficult to conquer and requires trial and error. While in your golf training grip, you will then distinguish the grip that suits your swinging habit.
Training grips have also been made available in many golf shops. As these golf training devices are made to help you find a good grip on the golf club. However Charlie McAvoy Womens Jersey , these rubber molded grips can only be used in a golf practice and are prohibited from being used in golf tournaments.
Buying DVDs regarding the right stretching exercises will also help you in your quest of being a good golf player. Because a complement of a good swing is your good posture. Hence, these DVDs will greatly assist you in achieving the appropriate form necessary for a good game of golf.
If you are uncertain of what golf training devices to buy, then, you can inquire and ask experienced golf players. You could also ask for some times and guides regarding playing golf. Or, you could look for some other sources that provide guides for beginners especially in the internet.
You can seek for devices everywhere and decide on your own since all people have vary in training approaches. It is best that you pick a device that would fill in the lacking area of your game.
If you are already aware of the devices you plan on purchasing for golf practice Tim Schaller Womens Jersey , then, you can list them, visit stores, and know how much they cost. Golf training devices come with high costs. So, the first thing you must do is determine the price and purchase them one by one.
Always try to work on your weaknesses one at a time. After you are done and have gained mastery over an area of weakness Torey Krug Womens Jersey , then, that鈥檚 the time you can proceed refining the other ones.
Sufficient golf practice will always be the key in honing your golf skills. Because even the most expensive and high-technology devices won鈥檛 be effective if there is no adequate practice. There are a lot of hard workers and talented persons in the game of sports. However, these traits are not enough to succeed in golf but love and passion must always be present. Because the individuals who made it big in the sport had love, passion, hard work David Krejci Womens Jersey , and perseverance. And this resulted to being on top of everyone else.
Earl has been joining in golf tournaments and has achieved awards on those golf tournaments. Because of his passion to this kind of sport, he has a site that offers great tips on golf swing, golf fitness training, golf training aids, Golf Training Devices etc. that would help other aspiring golf players who want to improve their game. To know more about Golf Training Devices Danton Heinen Womens Jersey , visit http:golfpracticedrills.net
Feng Shaofeng as Kasuo in Ice Fantasy Photo: CFP
Considering the long white hair and pointy "elf ears," no one would blame you for thinking that Lee Pace's Thranduil from The Hobbit films had somehow become the main character of the new Chinese series Ice Fantasy. While the icy and snowy environment looks like something out of Game of Thrones.
However, the Asian faces underneath all the Western-fantasy-style makeup are a reminder that this is made in China.
Yet, with the strong resemblance to its Western counterparts, it's hard to see this series as anything more than a cheap Hollywood knock-off.
Poor reviews
Ice Fantasy is adapted from Chinese writer Guo Jingming's novel of the same name. Before its debut on Hunan TV and several streaming platforms on July 24 Zdeno Chara Womens Jersey , the show was getting quite a bit of buzz since Ice Fantasy was the novel that brought Guo, now one of China's highest earning writers, into the spotlight back in 2003. Guo, also the director behind the highly lucrative Tiny Times film franchise, is also directing the show.
"We aim to create something like A Song of Ice and Fire Brandon Carlo Womens Jersey ," said Feng Shaofeng, the show's lead actor and also a producer, previously told media.
This ambition has apparently been matched by an equally ambitious budget. According to marketing for the show, more than 360 million yuan ($54 million) was spent on the show's special effects, with the aim to bring the Chinese TV industry to a brand new level.
However Riley Nash Womens Jersey , audiences who have seen the show are wondering just where all that money went, as the special effects don't seem to be living up to the hype.
Besides the fact that the long white hair and crown on his head makes Feng's character look like a cheaper version of Thranduil, many of the show's mythical creatures have ended up looking cheaply made.
The show's live action actors also don't seem to be very well integrated with the CGI backgrounds used in various scenes either. In a way the production has ended up looking more like a video game than a TV show.
Cheap special effects are not the only criticism aimed at the show. Poor acting and lame storylines have also contributed to poor reviews from critics and audiences.
Currently the show has one and a half stars out of five on Ch.


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'Tis the season for hosting and attending holiday parties, entertaining everyone from family and friends to co-workers... and you need easy, fun dishes to keep in your back pocket. This recipe is in our holiday feast series: Wholesome, delicious and portable!
Whether you're entertaining strict vegetarians or meat-lovers, crimini mushrooms are hearty and can adjust to hundreds of flavor profiles. Our take on "healthier, low-carb spinach and artichoke dip" is stuffing these babies and baking for a warm, flavorful bite that everyone will enjoy (and keep asking for more of). Try them out and let us know how they go over!
- 12 large crimini mushrooms, de-stemmed
- 1 clove of garlic, grated
- Olive oil
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed
- 2-3 artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1 cup crumbled feta
- 1/4 cup minced scallions
- Mince the remaining stems from the mushrooms, then add to a pan with 1/2 tbsp olive oil over medium-heat.
- Add the spinach and artichoke hearts, cook for about 3 mins until soft. Add salt and pepper!
- Pour into a mixing bowl and combine with feta cheese and scallions.
- Scoop filling into the mushrooms caps on a baking sheet, and bake for 20 mins at 350
Share this video with your friends by clicking the social links above!


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Kara's dress is the same silhouette YET AGAIN but this time in an ugly floral print with a black sash. A Night at the Opera, ladies and gentlemen.
Austin has the clear winner, a gorgeous gold lamé and black tulle 30s-inspired backless number. SO beautiful, perfect styling.
April's black-dyed red dress is so, so sad. Her model looks like a cosplayer.
Michael makes an impeccable black draped gown, AS ALWAYS. Yawn. OK, it has some nice feathery stuff around the neck, actually now that I'm remembering it it's totally stunning, but PLEASE LET AUSTIN WIN.
There is some justice in this world because Austin wins. The bottom three are April, Sweet P and Kara... and Sweet P goes home. Not a big surprise there.
Now please enjoy these pictures of Austin Scarlett!


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Sunday, January 05, 2014
the loveliest of sundays
Yesterday I fell in love with this little pretty, so it's on the way to our home as we speak. I hope it can brave the elements.
It's frigid cold here, so what else is there to do but fill the crock pot with chicken and peppers, for chicken tacos. Bonus- school has been cancelled for tomorrow because of the cold, so the leftovers will go nicely.
I decided to paint my Moleskin calendar. I think it will jazz my January up quite nice, while giving me another creative outlet at the same time... Be mindful is what I swished on the opposite page of this journal... Be mindful. I couldn't even begin to tell you, how important it is for me to live my life, with these words at the forefront.
While incorporating all the slowness into these days that I can, I decided to re-read this book, it's a keeper on my bookcase for sure.
"What we reach for may be different, but what makes us reach is the same." Mark Nepo
Have the loveliest of Sundays; stay warm my friends. x.
5 comments:
- Margie said...
I just picked up a lovely from Trader Joes myself. I love being surrounded by indoor greenery too. Your book sounds like one I would thoroughly enjoy Christina. I am currently reading "The Aviator's Wife", which I highly recommend.
Cozy up, Margie
- January 5, 2014 at 5:09 PM
- Becca said...
Looks like a beautiful day "indoors." Stay warm my friend…sounds SO cold in your neck of the woods! I had to switch from a drink with ice to hot tea just from seeing the cold on TV. :-)
- January 5, 2014 at 7:49 PM
- d smith kaich jones said...
what makes us reach is the same.
i love that. and once again your words, the smells, the feel of a warm room in a cold house. you take me there so easily.
- January 6, 2014 at 9:26 PM
- Michelle @ Give a Girl a Fig said...
I love your painted calendar...what a nice idea. I got a little cheapo calendar at the dollar store...nice big days to fill with appointments and commitments, opens like a book nice and big so I can see the whole month...but it's plain and ugly. This may be the trick...or washi tape and doodly edges! xo
- January 7, 2014 at 8:35 AM
- gkgirl said...
so pretty!!
- January 17, 2014 at 6:28 PM


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The proprietress and staff of Andon Ryokan entertain you with some Macha tea and sweets.
Let's enjoy talking with other guests from all over the world.
You can talk about whatever you like such as memories of your travel, pride in the place you come from, self-introduction and so on! We will also teach you simple words that you can use during your travel in Japan at this meeting. Please feel free to ask us anything about Japan. You might meet someone who will be a friend for life at Andon Ryokan in Tokyo! We very much hope you will join us.
The proprietress and all of Andon staff
|Date and Time
|From 6:00pm to 7:00pm Every Friday
|Free of charge
Andon guests only
|Participation is free.
Reservation is unnecessary.


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As if the Republican siege wasn't enough, Americans also elected Tea Party members and narrowly defeated Proposition 19 — legislation that would have legalized personal marijuana use. It could have been a piece of common-sense legislation, legalizing a weed and treating it like tobacco or alcohol, as well as boosting California's troubled economy. But, this week some Californians narrowly defeated what was almost the coolest thing the state has done in a long, long while.
So while the troupes regroup for the next battle, enjoy this excellent doc from Canadian Ron Mann (and narrated by supremo-pot-advocate Woody Harrelson) on the history of pot prohibition in North America. Yes, it's our Friday Film Pick with a bong. Enjoy.


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The Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track operates in two "Season" modes. Summer and Winter. A variety of service levels and scheduled transport are available during these seasons. We are of course happy to operate at any time of the year for minimum numbers! Visit Amazing Port Craig in incredible views from Okaka Lodge.
|Track Transport
|18th April to 22nd October
|24 Dec 2010 to 31st March 2011
|Thursday, Friday or by charter
Summer season
Lodges fully commissioned with lodge manager on site. Gas cooking and heating, full kitchen equipment, lighting, Licensed bar, Fully stocked shop including Back Country Cuisine meals, Rental sleeping bags, Sleeping bag liners,Upgrade options to private room with linen. You can even do a freedom walk and pay $10 for a hot shower and fresh towel!! how good is that!!.
Fully guided options leave every Friday but all packages can run on demand.
Track Transport is on a daily basis and a quick call to 0800 humpridge or calling into the Office in Tuatapere should provide you with all the information you need.
We can provide charters out of Invercargill or you can use Tripsntramps or tracknet from Te Anau or Queenstown.
RentaDent also do a great deal for rental cars and WILL NOT CHARGE YOU for days you are on the track. Cant get better than that.
Helicopter Services Thursday, Friday or by charter. Please call the office for bookings 0800 486774
Winter season
"Winter mode" – yes it is still a great time to tramp and in fact many enjoy the extreme isolation. You do however need to watch the weather!
Helipacking, track transport and "Freedom" options are only available by prior arrangement please check here for details. The lodges are unserviced with no gas, cooking equipment or hot water. Solar Lighting is operational, with running water and toilet facilities available. A Lodge Manager or staff member maybe present. Book the Winter Walk here


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Speech Communication Courses
Course numbering system
Speech communication courses use the following numbering system for digits following the prefix (319):
1st Digit -- Level
2nd Digit -- Area of Study
319-11000 Public Communication HU LA 3a
Exposure to a variety of speaking situations as a means to more comfortable, effective communication. Brief unit on language followed by exercises in various kinds of influential speaking. Emphasis is placed on the ethical responsibilities of the speaker and on the need for a critical posture by both speaker and listener. 319-11000 may not be taken if student has received credit for 319-11500. 3 credits. (F-S,Y)
319-11500 Business and Professional Communication HU LA
Study of public communication skills used in business and professional settings; emphasis is placed on presentational speaking and motive analysis; opportunity for individualized skill development provided. 319-11500 may not be taken if student has received credit for 319-11000. 3 credits. (F-S,Y)
319-12000 Communication, Culture, and Rhetoric HU LA 1a
Introduction to fundamentals of rhetorical theory and rhetorical approaches to the study of communication. Emphasis is placed on the discovery and critical analysis of the rhetorical impulse in a variety of forms of persuasion. Includes a
basic survey of rhetorical forms such as speeches, essays, advertising, films, and television. 3 credits. (F,Y)
319-12400 Courtrooms and Communication HU LA 1b
An investigation of trials and legal advocacy as communication phenomena. The course includes observations of live criminal trials, and participation in mock trials. 3 credits. (F,Y)
319-13200 Storytelling FA LA 3b
Introduction to the practice, history, and theories of storytelling as a performing art. Emphasis is placed on cultural dimensions of oral/folk narrative through study of tales and traditions from different cultures and ethnicities. Students examine a variety of situations and functions for storytelling (e.g., bardic, theatrical, religious). 3 credits. (F,Y)
319-14000 Small Group Communication SS LA 1b
Examination of the dynamics of small group communication with a focus on problem-solving groups. Topics include leadership, cohesiveness, norms, roles, conflict, problem-solving techniques, conformity and deviance, networks, and listening skills. 3 credits. (F-S,Y)
319-14500 Communication and Friendship SS LA 1a
Focuses on the role communication plays in initiating, developing, maintaining, and, in some cases, terminating friendships. Using a life course approach, examines social scientific research into the nature of friendship during childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Compares and contrasts friendship communication and communication in other significant personal relationships in the family and at the workplace. Open to first-year students only. 3 credits. (IRR)
319-14900 Fundamentals of Interpersonal Communication SS LA 1a
Introduction to basic principles of interpersonal communication. Presents a theoretical perspective integrated with activities in and out of the classroom. Topics include interpersonal perception, language, nonverbal communication, self-concept, social roles, conflict management, and dynamics of intimacy. 3 credits. (F-S,Y)
319-15000 Introduction to Communication Theory SS LA
Survey course studying a range of theories within the discipline. Included are the processes of communication (such as attitudes, listening, language, and nonverbal); contexts of communication (such as interpersonal, small group, organizational, public, mass, intercultural); and methods of research. 3 credits. (F-S,Y)
319-21500 Argumentation and Debate HU LA
Study of the philosophy of argument and logic in persuasion, debate forms, construction of the debate case, and responsibility for reasoned discourse in a society. Prerequisites: Two courses in the humanities and/or social sciences. 3 credits. (F,Y)
319-21800 Speech Communication for the Classroom Teacher HU LA
Familiarizes students with communication in the classroom from the standpoint of the teacher. Students are exposed to a variety of communication situations, such as lecture, discussion, and simulation, that typify the educational setting, and are required to demonstrate proficiency in directing and critiquing in-class experiences of various types. Designed for nonmajors. Prerequisites: 6 credits of coursework in major academic area. 3 credits. (S,E)
319-21900 Speech Communication Practicum U NLA
Practical experience in speech on campus, at the intercollegiate level, and in the community at large; debate and legislative assemblies; discussion, oratory, impromptu, and extemporaneous speaking; oral interpretation and readers theater. Note: The instructor will designate the minimum activities required to receive credit. Pass/fail only. Prerequisites: Permission of instructor; participation in one of the department's cocurricular programs (such as debate or readers theater). May be repeated for a total of 8 credits. 1 credit. (F-S,Y)
319-22500 Health Communication SS LA
Introduction to the field of health communication, including origins and development. Presents theories of health behavior and communication, and how they relate to one another in practice. Examines communication between health professionals and clients, and the roles media play in the health care industry and the delivery of health services. Cross-listed with 640-22500. One may not receive credit for both 640-22500 and 319-22500. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing or above. 3 credits. (F,Y)
319-23000 Analysis and Performance of Literature FA LA 3a, 3b
Introduction to the art of oral interpretation of literature, including communicative and literary analysis, oral performance, and performance criticism. Survey of basic performance and analysis techniques for fictional prose and poetry. Prerequisites: Two courses in the humanities and/or social sciences. 3 credits. (S,Y)
319-24300 Interviewing SS LA
Focuses on the theory and practice of interviewing. Applies communication theories during several classroom and field interviewing opportunities. Several opportunities to apply communication theories to classroom and field interviewing experiences. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing. 3 credits. (F,Y)
319-28900 Selected Topics SS/FA/HU LA
Topics of current interest. Examples include nonverbal communication, campaign rhetoric, listening, intrapersonal communication, and legislative and parliamentary procedure. May be repeated for credit for selected topics on different subjects. Prerequisites: Three courses in the humanities and/or social sciences; additional prerequisites for specific topics may be announced when course descriptions are distributed. 3 credits. (IRR)
319-29700 Directed Readings HU/SS LA
Study of an extensive selection of literature on a topic of special interest, as compiled by an instructor. This literature should further student development within a relevant topic area that is not otherwise covered in an available course. Offered on demand only. Prerequisites: Three credits in speech communication; sophomore standing; approval of the speech communication faculty. 1-4 credits.
319-30400 Special Methods of Teaching Speech Communication: Directing Speech Activities NLA
Provides speech education majors with information about the curricular and cocurricular activities that are commonly the responsibility of the speech communication specialist in secondary schools: debate, symposium discussions, and readers theater, as well as individual events such as oral interpretation and persuasive, informative, and impromptu speeches. Prerequisites: 319-11000; 319-14900; 319-23000; 327-21900. 3 credits. (S,E)
319-31100 Advanced Public Communication HU LA 3a
Advanced public speaking, with three complementary goals: (1) to develop a professional level of oral skill before a live audience; (2) to practice advanced communication skills in the public sphere as speakers, speechwriters, and consultants; and (3) to expose students to a variety of speech types and criteria by which speeches can be judged. Prerequisites: 319-11000 or 319-11500; three courses in the humanities and/or social sciences. 3 credits. (S,Y)
319-32400 Rhetoric and Social Order SS LA
Study of the rhetoric and persuasion of social groups. Focuses on communication strategies used by leaders and/or members of social groups in advocating social change, and the communication strategies of social control in response. Prerequisites: Three courses in the humanities and/or social sciences. 3 credits. (IRR)
319-32600 Classical Theories of Rhetoric HU LA 3a, h
Study of various theories of persuasion from the Platonic era through the Roman-Christian period (Plato to St. Augustine). Prerequisites: One of the following: 319-11000, 319-11500, 319-15000; junior standing. 3 credits. (F,Y)
319-32700 Modern and Contemporary Theories of Rhetoric HU LA
Rhetorical theories offer a particular way of exploring the practice of communication. This seminar addresses one or more theoretical themes in the rhetorical approach to communication. Objectives include understanding the nature and value of communication theories in the modern world, as well as being able to put theories into practice. Prerequisites: 319-11000 or 319-12000; junior standing. 3 credits. (S,Y)
319-32800 The Uses and Methods of Communication Criticism HU LA
Advanced course that approaches criticism, one of the primary research methods in this field, as a way of knowing, comparable to scientific and social-scientific ways of knowing. Addresses different methods of criticism through student-driven projects and presentation. Considers practical uses of criticism and reflects on the philosophical assumptions critics make. Prerequisites: 319-12000; junior standing. 3 credits. (F,Y)
319-33200 Folklore and Cultural Performances FA LA
Survey of the major forms and traditions of folklore and cultural performances ranging from everyday conversations to rituals and celebrations. Emphasis is placed on the analysis of aesthetic, rhetorical, and group dimensions of folkloric/oral performances. Narrative forms to be studied include personal storytelling, jokes and humor, legends, and tales. Larger performance forms are also included, such as spectacles, holidays, and festivals. Prerequisites: Nine credits of courses from one or more of the following departments: anthropology, cinema and photography, English, sociology, speech communication, theater arts. 3 credits. (S,O)
319-33300 Analysis and Performance of Prose FA LA
Study of analysis, cutting, adaptation, and performance techniques appropriate to oral interpretation of expository, descriptive, and narrative prose literature. Solo and ensemble performance experience, and performance evaluation experience. Prerequisites: 319-23000, or three courses in speech communication and/or theater. 3 credits. (F,E)
319-33400 Group Performance of Literature FA LA
Study of the principles and practice of readers theater as a creative and presentational art form. Includes study of adaptation and compilation scripting; direction and performance of ensemble interpretation projects. Prerequisites: 319-23000, or three courses in speech communication and/or theater. 3 credits. (S,E)
319-33500 Analysis and Performance of Poetry FA LA
Exploration of vocal and performance behavior appropriate to poems written in the lyric, epic, and dramatic modes; evaluation of the student's oral performance in each of the modes and in various periods of English literature. Prerequisites: 319-23000, or three courses in speech communication and/or theater. 3 credits. (F,O)
319-34000 Advanced Small Group Communication SS LA
Application of communication theories and research studies in small group settings; analytic rather than participative in approach. Students research a given topic, present seminar papers on research, and observe decision-making groups, offering recommendations based on well-grounded theory/research. Prerequisites: 319-14000; two courses in the social sciences; sophomore standing. 3 credits. (S,O)
319-34100 Communication Research Methods SS LA
Prepares students to be competent and critical readers of published and unpublished reports of scientific research on communication phenomena. Emphasizes critical evaluation of communication research literature based on both quantitative and qualitative methods. Topics include the philosophy of social science, design of research, problems of measurement, basic statistical analysis, participant observation, interaction analysis, interviews, narrative analysis, scientific arguments, and ethical issues in research. Prerequisites: Three courses in speech communication; junior standing. 3 credits. (S,Y)
319-34600 Gender and Interpersonal Communication SS LA 1a
Advanced theoretical examination of interpersonal communication, concentrating on nonverbal communication, language, power, gender, and characteristics of and problems in interpersonal relationships. Prerequisites: 319-14000 or 319-14900; two courses in the social sciences; sophomore standing. 3 credits. (F,Y)
319-34700 Intercultural Communication SS LA 1a, 1b, g
Introduces speech communication processes in intercultural, interracial, interethnic, and international contexts. Presents other cultural groups, patterns of thought, perception, and communication, and examines students' own cultural assumptions. Prerequisites: 319-14000; 319-14900; three additional credits in speech communication. 3 credits. (F,O)
319-34800 Family Communication SS LA 1b
The family from a communication perspective. Studies the dominant theories and methodologies that illuminate communication about and within the contemporary American family. Emphasis is placed on the central role communication plays in determining expectations and realities in a diversity of situations (e.g., nuclear, extended, single-parent, blended, voluntarily childless, or gay/lesbian-led families). Prerequisites: 319-14000 or 319-14900; two courses in the social sciences; sophomore standing. 3 credits. (S,E)
319-35300 Language and Social Interaction HU LA
Studies how symbolization reflects and generates a particular view of reality. Emphasizes how certain methods of describing the world determine the orientation a person has toward the world. Focus is on the reality structures of American language. Prerequisites: Three courses in speech communication; junior standing. 3 credits. (F,Y)
319-38900 Selected Topics SS/FA/HU LA
Topics of current interest. Examples include small group dynamics, research methodology, interracial/intercultural communication, conflict management, and male/female relationships. May be repeated for credit for selected topics on different subjects. Prerequisites: Three courses in the humanities and social sciences; the appropriate lower-level speech communication course that offers introductory or general information on the specific topic of the course. 3 credits. (IRR)
319-39500 Internship NLA
Work-study project designed by the student in consultation with a sponsoring faculty member and an on-site practicing professional. The proposal must define the work to be done, the theories to be explored, and the student's plan for submitting a written report based on his or her experience. Offered on demand only. Prerequisites: Cumulative GPA of 2.30; permission of speech communication faculty. These credits may not be used as upper-level elective credit toward a speech communication major. Variable credit.
319-39700 Directed Readings HU/SS LA
Study of an extensive selection of literature on a topic of special interest as compiled by an instructor. This literature should further student development within a relevant topic area that is not otherwise covered in an available course. Offered on demand only. Prerequisites: Nine credits in speech communication; junior standing; approval of the speech communication faculty. 1-4 credits.
319-42900 Seminar in Public Communication HU LA
In-depth study of a specific topic in public communication, such as the speaking of a particular person (Nixon), or type of person (president), or communication strategies of a movement (women's), or a kind of rhetoric (famous pleas). Prerequisites: Senior standing or equivalent in speech communication. 3 credits. (IRR)
319-43900 Seminar in Literary and Cultural Performances HU/FA LA
Detailed study of special topics in fields such as linguistics, literary composition, prosody, and rhetoric as they relate to the oral presentation of prose, poetry, and the play. Prerequisites: 6 credits in analysis and performance of literature. 3 credits. (IRR)
319-44900 Seminar in Interpersonal Communication SS LA
In-depth study of a specific topic in interpersonal communication, such as stages in relational development, language behavior and interpersonal communication, nonverbal codes and relationships, interpersonal apprehension, and other similar topics. Prerequisites: 319-14000; 319-14900; any 3-credit course identified as an "applications in speech communication" course. 3 credits. (IRR)
319-45100 Communication and Social Influence SS LA
Examination of current theories of social influence and their relationship to communication. Focuses on analyzing current persuasion practices in terms of theories such as social learning and self-persuasion, attribution theory, information processing, and social change. Prerequisites: 319-14000; 319-14900; one level-3 or above course identified as an "applications in speech communication" course. 3 credits. (S,Y)
319-45900 Seminar in Communication Theory SS LA
Detailed study of special topics. 3 credits. (IRR)
319-49500 Internship NLA
Work-study project designed by the student in consultation with a sponsoring faculty member and a cooperating practicing professional. The proposal must define the work to be done, the theories to be explored, and the student's plan for submitting a written report based on his or her experience. Offered on demand only. Prerequisites: Speech communication majors with a cumulative GPA of 2.30, 3.00 in the major; permission of speech communication faculty. No more than 6 credits may be used toward the major. Variable credit, up to 12 credits.
319-49800 Directed Research LA
Research projects arranged at student request with individual instructors in speech communication. Offered on demand only. Prerequisites: 319-22800; open only to speech communication majors or minors; junior standing; cumulative GPA of 2.30, 3.00 in major; permission of speech communication faculty. No more than 3 credits may be used toward the major. 1-4 credits.
319-49900 Independent Study U LA
Special reading and research under the supervision of the department. Open to juniors and seniors. Must not duplicate a study that may be pursued in standard coursework. Application must be made to the speech communication faculty before preregistration for the semester in which the study is to be undertaken. Offered on demand only. Prerequisites: Cumulative GPA of 2.30, 3.00 in major; permission of speech communication faculty. May be repeated for a total of 6 credits. 1-4 credits.
A. Ozolins, Office of Publications, 21. October, 2002


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Google Sync
With Google Sync you can make changes to your contacts and calendar on your phone or in your desktop Google account. Since Sync uses push technology, the changes should automatically appear within minutes. And your information is constantly syncing, so it's up-to-date and securely stored within your Google account, even if you lose your phone...Read more


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How big should this car be in comparison to the one I just made?
Will a beaded Einstein fit inside the car?
How many layers of felt should I cut out?
Where will I get parts for the interior of the car?
What size canvas' should I use for this trilogy?
How am I going to make this work?
Am I crazy?
Those were just a few of my thoughts, and I didn't have many answers! So, I just started cutting out some felt:


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Hollywood, Ca - Saturday, June 15th, stylish starlette Rachel Bilson, multi-talented DJ Jake Hoffman, and personal chef to the stars Chef Yossi hosted a fun, food-filled evening benefitting the Los Angeles Mission at Hollywood's hottest southern food eatery, Memphis Restaurant. The Los Angeles Mission is a nonprofit organization that serves the homeless living on the streets of downtown Los Angeles' Hope Central (known as Skid Row). The star-studded event also introduced Chef Yossi, a deluxe personal care line for gourmet chefs and 'foodies' alike, to the Los Angeles.
Sizzling celebrities lounged on the plush, velvet chairs and couches and mingled while they sampled the sizzling hors d'oeurves like lamb, sushi, mini tacos, and crab cakes. Carbs or no carbs, everyone was after the hors d'oeurves. In fact, the waitresses found their trays empty within five steps of entering the restaurant! DJ Jake Hoffman entertained the audience as he spun an eclectic mix of 80s, popular clubbing beats, and some good ol' oldies. Gourmet food, adult beverages, great music, and charitable donations resulted in serenely satiated guests and a quite successful evening.
Amidst the succulent sushi and luscious lamb, Chef Yossi introduced Chef Yossi, a high-end line of personal care items for chef's which includes odor-eliminating chef soap, hand moisturizer, burn cream and disposable hand towelettes.
Yossi's newest item, Chef's Burn Cream, is due to hit shelves just in time for fall festivities, like Thanksgiving, that are centered around cooking. Chef's Burn Cream, is a topical wound cream ointment that protects hands while cooking seasonal favorites. The antiseptic instantly disinfects cuts and protects hands from nasty kitchen-borne pathogens such as E. coli and salmonella. Chef's Burn Cream also provides instant pain relief for burns caused by contact with flames or scorching pots and pans. Soothing ingredients such as Vitamin E and witch hazel hydrate chapped skin and leave behind a refreshingly clean scent. Chef's Burn Cream also contains tea tree oil, which reduces the likelihood of scarring and promotes healing so that hands are in perfect condition in no time at all. Chef's Burn Cream is not tested on animals and contains no animal ingredients.
Yossi's budding career began at Spago in Beverly Hills where he trained under world renowned chef, Wolfgang Puck. Following Spago, he spent three years honing his own style as a chef at Pinot Bistro. He went on to Patina in Hollywood, where he perfected the style that has made him famous. It didn't take long before the who's who in Hollywood discovered Yossi's talent and a strong following ensued. His whirlwind of a culinary career now includes celebrity clientele like Dustin Hoffman, Cher, Michael Ovitz, Ben Stiller, Blythe Danner, John Malkovich, Warren Beatty, Annette Bening, Edward Norton, Salma Hayek, Jeremy Piven, Robert Dinero, Barbara Streisand, Rachel Bilson, Nicole Ritchie, and Giada De Laurentis.
Yossi's unique style is influenced by his traditional Israeli roots blended with European Haute cuisine. Yossi admits, 'I love all foods as long as they are made with the finest and freshest local ingredients.' Adding, 'I chose to live near the Farmer's Market in Santa Monica so I can walk the aisles early in the morning to be inspired for that day's menu.' A few of Yossi's specialties and favorites include: Miso Crusted Black Cod, Homemade BBQ Ribs, Smoked Cedar Plank Wild Salmon with Brown Butter, Soy, Maple and Meyer Lemon Essence and Veal Milanese with Porcini Mushrooms and White Truffles. Yossi currently divides his time between being a personal chef, running Off the Shelf Catering, an in-demand production and private catering company, and promotes Chef Yossi.
Adam Brody, James Wilder, Eliza Dushku, Jeremy Piven and Michelle Rodriguez were among the stars who chewed for charity! The three benevolent hosts and their guests raised $3,000 for the Los Angeles Mission.
The Los Angeles Mission provides hope and opportunity to broken men, women, and children and families in Los Angeles through meeting their spiritual, physical, education, and social rehabilitation needs.
For more information on Chef Yossi and his product line, click here.
For more information on the Los Angeles Mission, click here


text: Meet the CEO behind 'paid paid vacation' In 2012, Bart Lorang, cofounder and CEO of US tech company FullContact introduced 'paid paid vacation'. The perk offered employees US$7,500 to fund their holiday – on top of the standard 15 days' paid holiday offered to US workers, and their full salaries. There were three conditions: No checking work emails, texts or calls No working Employees could only use the money to fund a trip Last year, FullContact's communications director told the Washington Post the incentive was working "incredibly well". "The really big names in tech all focus on the same idea that employee happiness has to come before everything else," he said. "While it's really difficult to measure that return on investment from a dollar standpoint, it's not difficult to measure what happens when someone returns from a Paid Paid Vacation: you see, without fail, people shining brighter, working harder and more excited to get back into the swing of things." Recently, Lorang reaffirmed the value of the scheme while speaking to Business Insider, claiming that the policy has improved the day-to-day structure of the company. He referred to the offering as "an amazing forcing function to eliminate single points of failure". What he meant by this is that by nudging employees to take "real" holidays – where they're genuinely inaccessible – he has built a culture that doesn't depend too heavily on one person for any particular thing. Lorang also added that this is a particularly difficult feat in tech startups, because their culture is usually oriented around "hero syndrome" – the "I'm the only one who can do this" mentality. He added that this makes employees happier because they know they "aren't the last line of defence" – and because "Costa Rica is lovely this time of year". There is no doubt in the CEO's mind that the policy will continue to improve all aspects of the business. "At the end of the day, the company will – and has – improved," Lorang said. Leave a comment SHARE


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Art Bloggers: A Blessing or a Curse?/
Everyone's a Critic – a film community website and experiment that gathered together critics, reviewers and film enthusiasts using a collaborative filtering algorithm to obtain recommendations from people sharing similar tastes in film. It is also a phrase mockingly referring to the proliferation of internet-based opinions from people who are not professional critics in the occupational sense. Blogs, websites, and social media platforms have become the new authority for critical inquiry, overriding the traditional medium of journals and news media.
Here lies the question: where do we draw the line? How should we treat these popularist ideas circulating in the digital aether? As less credible criticism by the uninformed viewer or as equally valid considerations by a loving target audience with a discerning eye for good (and bad) taste? Furthermore, for something as diverse and subjective as the visual arts – whether it be Old Masters, modern or contemporary art – what role do the views of art bloggers have in the highbrow world of art criticism?
The art world is a tricky maze of authority figures and conflicting opinions, each with the common aim of promoting the next big artist and shifting the artistic tastes of the decade. On the front lines are the galleries representing the best and brightest of the recruits. The victors are the ones shortlisted for the attention of experts, connoisseurs and critics. Mid twentieth-century America saw Clement Greenberg and Harold Rosenberg arguing for the appreciation of Abstract Expressionism, whilst Roland Penrose was bringing the art of Pablo Picasso and the Surrealists to the attention of the British public. Post-war British art was also being promoted at the Whitechapel Art Gallery, around which time the art dealer Jeremy Maas was trying to revive interest in Victorian art, eventually selling Lord Frederic Leighton's iconic 'Flaming June' to Puerto Rico for a mere £2,000.
Nowadays, we are still living in Charles Saatchi's legacy which told us that the Young British Artists were worth the attention in 1991, with Damien Hirst becoming the UK's richest living artist and Tracey Emin pieces being as recognisable and numerous as Picassos. Popularity and fame dictates taste in art – remember Andy Warhol? – but so do those who write about them. From the critic's and academic's view, surely the opinions of our existing community of art world experts are all we need to decide what is fashionable in our time. Surely they would be enough to determine what is good and bad art.
The reality may not be as simple.
Art bloggers are carefree creatures. Being typically unpaid and self-motivated, they do not carry the burden of reputation associated with established journals and institutions, unlike traditional critics who make a living being our era's all-powerful, all-credible judges of cultural taste. The former has the freedom to write and comment on any topic, exhibition, and artist he or she wishes without much consequence; the latter is restricted by the aims and values of their journal, often sticking to major galleries and movements. As a result, art bloggers have the upper hand regarding diversity of content and freedom of speech.
However, blogs are only as good as their outreach. Site traffic for blogs are entirely reliant on keywords, search engines, and audiences looking for specific content. Journals are less affected by this due to their existing readership. A brief note concerning their respective demographics is important here: journals are largely aimed at academics whereas blogs appeal to the young, student market.
Admittedly, a blog's popularity is no guarantee for its quality of content nor its credibility of opinion. However, the large number of existing blogs that do feature similar content allows for a better understanding of the weight of opinion: this contribution to a consensus in critical scholarship is a defining characteristic of art bloggers and their content. The authority of critics is autocratic; for bloggers it is democratic.
A better way to say this might be the following: bloggers are the popular vote. Representing a wider pool of cultural and educational backgrounds, what emerges from their content is art discourse unfettered by institutional bias. Though their writing styles may vary, they are often not afraid to say what is really on their mind. We can also take their opinions at face-value. This is valuable in itself and instantly makes it more accessible, maybe even relatable for the reader. Oftentimes, there are even gleaming interpretative insights of works of art that are unique and only accessible from the perspective of a specific individual or culture. The existing pool of academics might not be able to bridge this gap.
Hidden among the honesty and directness of a blogger's content might be found something even more valuable than mere verbal accessibility. Bloggers are more likely to voice their observations and experiences in their writing, creating content that is laced with an aesthetic interest personal to the blogger. A community of content emphasising this kind of interest can thus be representative of a sort of public eye (literally). That is not to say that academics do not rely on or voice their observations – in fact, many do – but being academically oriented they are only representative of a small group of observers with similar educational backgrounds and training. Therefore, the things they choose to write and publish may be hindered by the kind of content other people expect them to produce.
Bloggers are free from this. They can voice their opinions and observations without heavy judgement, largely because the prevailing view of bloggers is that they are not critics, simply commentators. They can produce content based on what they see, not on what they know. Academics know too much already. Bloggers don't, and thus they will rely heavily on their instincts. By resorting back to basic human instincts, they become surprising effective and relatable, contributing to their appeal as valid sources of criticism.
Academics write criticism; bloggers make comments. Instead of viewing this statement negatively on the part of the blogger, perhaps we should recognise this as a redeeming and necessary feature within artistic publishing discourse. In their ideal form, bloggers represent a public set of opinions that are unbiased towards institutions and organisations. Their strength in numbers allows for a richness and variety that can not only fill certain gaps in interpreting culture-specific art but also provide a more direct and consensus-based view of cultural events. Poetically, bloggers are what academics used to be: passionate, naïve and desperate to have their say.


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While the Muppets were never truly gone, Jim Henson's classic creations have certainly been out of the spotlight for awhile. But with their wonderful return to movie theaters this week, in The Muppets, we're once again reminded of just how great the Muppets are.
The Muppets can be traced back to the mid-1950s, and made appearances on several TV shows through the years – but it was the 1976 debut of The Muppet Show that cemented their place in pop culture history. For those of us who grew up with the series (which ran originally until 1981, but then continued to play in syndication for years, allowing more than one generation to partake in Muppetness), The Muppet Show was essential TV viewing, as each episode, a different guest would take part in the wacky antics at the Muppet Theater.
So what was it that made The Muppet Show so very special and allows it to hold up to this day? Here are some of the standout elements…
The Characters
No one would have cared so much about The Muppet Show if they didn't care about the Muppets themselves. While several Muppets, notably Kermit and Rowlf, were created years earlier, The Muppet Show gave them a much bigger chance to shine, while bringing in a huge and wonderful group of characters around them. Rather than dull archetypes you might find on other kids shows, the Muppets felt fully formed – from the terrible yet good-natured jokes of Fozzie Bear, to the prima donna ways of Miss Piggy to the overly stern and smug Sam Eagle, viewers felt they knew these guys… and wanted to spend more time with them.
One of the great things about the Muppets characters were how genuine and well-rounded they felt – yeah, Kermit was usually a pretty even-tempered dude. But watch him absolutely lose it with Miss Piggy when she took things one step too far.
The Guest Stars
A lot of the guest stars for The Muppet Show would have been right at home on any of the other popular comedy/musical/variety shows of the era – people like The Brady Bunch's Florence Henderson, The Carol Burnett Show's Harvey Korman and Bob Hope. But it also was clear that the producers of The Muppet Show were willing to reach out to more atypical guests for a "kids" show - and that those people were happy to be on the series. Hence, episodes featuring the likes of Alice Cooper, John Cleese, Sylvester Stallone and Debbie Harry. And in a trifecta of geek nirvana, episodes featuring the cast of Star Wars, Christopher Reeve and Lynda Carter all aired in a row.
Guest stars on The Muppet Show were clearly having the time of their life, and that was pretty infectious to watch. You must check out this clip from the Star Wars episode below, to see a very amped up Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill).
The Music
From heartfelt songs like "Bein' Green" to covers of everything from "I Heard it Through the Grapevine" and "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da", The Muppets had a ton of great musical performances – sometimes on their own, sometimes aided by their guest stars, such as Elton John, who performed several of his late 70s hits on the show, all given new, Muppet-enhanced life.
Then of course was the iconic and instantly recognizable Muppet Show theme song… and another song that, while performed by Muppets on earlier TV appearances, had its most memorable (and awesome) version debut just a few minutes into the very first episode of The Muppet Show.
The Comedy
The Muppet Show was aimed at kids and families, but Jim Henson and his collaborators knew that didn't mean you had to talk down to the kids and that there was no reason you couldn't throw in jokes aimed at adults who caught the show. All of the Muppet characters were funny – Asked about his potential romantic interest in Miss Piggy, Kermit once replied, "With a napkin, knife and fork is the only way I'm touching pork." But it's hard not to hold a special place in our hearts for Statler and Waldorf, the two permanently curmudgeonly, permanently heckling old men who sat in the Muppet Theater's balcony.
These two had so many great lines and great bits, but a particularly standout segment had to be when the legendary Milton Berle was on The Muppet Show and found himself facing off with two guys who were ready for verbal war.
It Was Just Plain Awesome
Funny, sweet, musical and memorable all at once, The Muppet Show had it all. Here's a bit with Fozzie and Rowlf show just how that amazing alchemy worked.
Plus, any show that gave the world Beaker is one I am eternally grateful for.
What are your favorite memories from The Muppet Show? Let us know in the comments!
Eric Goldman is the Executive Editor of IGN TV and really hopes that all of the new Muppet hype leads to Season 4 and Season 5 of The Muppet Show finally being released on DVD! You can follow him on Twitter at @EricIGN.


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New York's elected officials took the stage at the Democratic National Convention tonight to offer up their support of hometown candidate Hillary Clinton—including the state senator who will become the nation's first Dominican-American congressman this November.
Adriano Espaillat, who won a Democratic primary for the seat being vacated by Congressman Charles Rangel, scored a speaking slot ahead of primetime, standing alongside a slew of New York lawmakers who sought to have Clinton's back as the crowd roiled with unhappy Sanders delegates, who have been booing her name all afternoon.
"I will become the first Dominican-American to ever serve in the U.S. Congress," Espaillat introduced himself to applause. "Perhaps even just as important, I will be the first member of Congress who was once undocumented as an immigrant. You take that Donald Trump!"
Read more: From Undocumented to Congress: Adriano Espaillat Needles Trump at DNC | Observer
Op-Led: That Was Not A Convention – It Was A Coronation
Mr. Trump, you're a racist and you can take your border wall and shove it up your a**
Op-Led: To Hell With Donald Trump, SNL & NBC – Why Latinos Are Outraged By The Donald Trump Phenomenon
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text: SWIMMER WASHES OUT RECORDS. Leesburg High School's Susan Suwalski set a school record in the 200 freestyle and improved her record time in the 500 freestyle at Fort Lauderdale Pinecrest's Woodson Invitational Saturday. Suwalski, finishing second in the 500 with a 5:04.13 finish, sliced 11 seconds off her personal best, a Leesburg High School record, and earned consideration for high school All-America honors. In the 200 she finished third with a 1:54.83 to set a school record. Teammates Jennifer Stephenson, Tim White and Todd Hopkins also left their marks on the meet. Leesburg Coach Frank Wells only took four swimmers to the meet. Stephenson finished seventh in the 50 freestyle (26.17) and 12th in the 100 breaststroke (1:14.66). White took 11th in the 500 freestyle (5:05.16) and 14th in the 200 IM (2:13.71). Hopkins was 15th in the 500 freestyle (5:15.46). Leesburg hosts Trinity Prep in a dual meet today a 4 p.m. in preparation for Friday's conference championships.


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"Family Portrait" by "H," and "Green Suite," by "I," Grade 5 (see video below)
To wrap up the 2nd quarter in Art, CBMS students have been exploring possibilities in papermaking. Starting with hall passes, gum wrappers, old homework and all sorts of scraps of paper, students learn the process of deconstructing reclaimed materials to reconstruct art papers. Can we make paper out of tea bags or green beans from lunch? What happens if you add aluminum foil? What if you use too much stuff and the paper is too thick or there is not enough material and the paper is too thin? How thin can we make it? How thick is too thick?
"Green Suite" - 13 shades of green by "I," Grade 5
Learning the process of papermaking is one thing, finding a purpose for the resulting papers is another. Some students work as alchemists, blending custom pulp and crafting unusual papers. Some are colorists who focus on one shade, building a monochromatic portfolio of papers in subtle tones. Some students are innovators, testing materials and processes never before attempted. Others see possibilities for collaboration.
The Four Seasons by "M'" Grade 7
And what of meaning-making? Can young artists use the papers they make to create meaning? Is the meaning formed with the paper or does it emerge later when the paper is transformed into a book, a collage, a sculpture or a painting.
Click to view video!
One young papermaker custom-made 6 pieces of paper - one to represent each member of his family. Dad was made from pages of a discarded boo, because he is "always working," Mom was made of different shades of blue, her favorite color, brothers were thoughtfully made with colors and scraps that represented their interests and activities - the artist blended his paper from orange (his favorite color) and musical notes, since he loves music. Even the family dog was represented. Once the papers were finished, the artist cut them into five human figure shapes and one dog shape, arranged them in order, and strung them together to create a family portrait. (See photo at top of post)


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Christopher Opstedal
"I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past." – Thomas Jefferson
Chris began his career in the mortgage industry in 2003, shortly after purchasing his first home. The feelings of pride and excitement were something he wanted to share with other people. Chris joined Fairway Independent Mortgage in 2014 to provide his clients with industry-leading pricing and in-house underwriting, ensuring a quick and seamless transaction. He believes in honesty, trust, and commitment to the individual needs of each client. Chris is licensed in both in Washington and Montana with the Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System. He is also licensed to teach residential finance to Realtors.
Christopher Opstedal
Senior Loan Originator
Bozeman, MT
|Email Me
Our mobile app makes applying easy and scanning documents as simple as snapping a picture.Watch Our Video


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The tribe has spoken -- and the high-flying Daddy Daughter Duo destroyed the competition in our Cheer-tastic Photo Contest -- scoring the $250 prize and some great gifts from TMZ!
This week's contest is our Second Annual Celebrity Look-Alike Contest -- so if your not-so famous face has been mistaken for the real deal -- email in a picture and your faux-celebrity snapshot could help you win BIG!
**CLICK HERE for contest rules and regulations!**
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Latest Financial Results
Stock Information
Company Overview
We are a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, research and development of next-generation biologic drugs and novel orphan oncology therapeutics. Our lead investigational product candidate is oncology therapeutic XBIO-101 (sodium cridanimod) for the treatment of progesterone resistant endometrial cancer. Further, the Company's proprietary drug development platform, PolyXen, enables next-generation biologic drugs by improving their half-life and other pharmacological properties. The Company has ongoing business development activities to explore partnerships utilizing its PolyXen delivery platform.
Contact Information
Investor Relations
Jenene Thomas Communications, LLC.
Jenene Thomas
Transfer Agent
Empire Stock Transfer, Inc.
1859 Whitney Mesa Drive
Henderson, NV 89014


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Service Pack 3 for Windows XP released
Despite the release of Vista last year, Windows XP still remains the OS of choice for many people. XP has been around for quite a while now, and while it has aged, the two service packs have kept it going strong all these years. If you're one of many users that have decided not to upgrade just yet, you'll be happy to know that Microsoft has released their third service pack for Windows XP.
Windows XP Service Pack 3 will be the final service pack for this version of the operating system. After that you'll be forced to upgrade to Vista if you want things kept up-to-date. There aren't as many visible changes as there were with SP2. One of the biggest changes that you will notice is the lack of the Taskbar Address Bar. This is believed to have been removed due to a lawsuit regarding Internet Explorer being bundled into Windows. You should see this update coming down shortly (if you have automatic updates enabled).
Source: UberGizmo
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One review or comment
Sam Leung Says: May 8, 2008 at 3:25 pm
F.Y.I just for a bit of extra info:
Microsoft had expected to release the software on April 29; however, it discovered it conflicted with an application called Microsoft Dynamics RMS. The problem also affected Windows Vista SP1. Dynamics RMS is a retail-chain-management software for small and midsized businesses.
Source: http://www.pcworld.com


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OLDWICK, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A++ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings of "aa+" of the members of MedPro Group (MedPro) (headquartered in Fort Wayne, IN). These Credit Ratings (ratings) apply to The Medical Protective Company (Fort Wayne, IN), its affiliates, Princeton Insurance Company (Princeton, NJ), PLICO, Inc. (Oklahoma City, OK), Commercial Casualty Insurance Company (Fort Wayne, IN) and Atlanta International Insurance Company (Flushing, NY), as well as its two reinsured affiliates, MedPro RRG Risk Retention Group and AttPro RRG Reciprocal Risk Retention Group (both domiciled in the District of Columbia). The outlook of these ratings is stable.
The ratings reflect MedPro's balance sheet strength, which A.M. Best categorizes as strongest, as well as its strong operating performance, favorable business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.
The ratings reflect MedPro's robust capitalization, long-term operating performance and the significant market position it maintains in the medical professional liability (MPL) sector. The ratings also consider the group's substantial distribution capabilities, prudent claims-handling philosophy and culture of maintaining a margin of safety. Furthermore, the ratings benefit from the explicit and implicit financial support provided by the ultimate parent, Berkshire Hathaway Inc. [NYSE: BRK A and BRK B], which includes reinsurance programs, investment opportunities and capital support.
Partially offsetting these positive rating factors are the inherent challenges associated with being a predominately monoline MPL insurer, particularly as they relate to price competition, changing market dynamics, potential changes in legislative (i.e., tort) reform, increasing loss cost trends and regulatory risk. At the same time, A.M. Best recognizes the organization's strong management team, broad premium base and jurisdictional diversity that mitigate these concerns.
This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on A.M. Best's website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see A.M. Best's Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Understanding Best's Credit Ratings. For information on the proper media use of Best's Credit Ratings and A.M. Best press releases, please view Guide for Media - Proper Use of Best's Credit Ratings and A.M. Best Rating Action Press Releases.
A.M. Best is the world's oldest and most authoritative insurance rating and information source. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.
Copyright © 2018 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.


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Most Earned
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Discounts on Grand Theft Auto IV, Gears of War, Call of Duty: Black Ops, Gears of War 2, Red Dead Redemption, Assassin's Creed II, Gears of War 3 and more
Posted 1 year ago by Rich Stone, 232 comments
Following several "leaked" fakes, the Xbox team has today officially unveiled the launch lineup of backwards compatible Xbox 360 games that'll be available on Xbox One when the New Xbox One Experienc
Posted 4 years ago by Mark Delaney, 265 comments
Ten years ago yesterday, the original Xbox was released in Japan. As Microsoft likes marking its milestones, they've decided to run two promotions for Japanese residents to help with the celebrations
Posted 7 years ago by Rebecca Smith, 59 comments
Most people were surprised when the Skill Expansion DLC pack was released for Lode Runner last month. The announcement that came with the first DLC stated that a second expansion pack would also be a
Posted 8 years ago by Rebecca Smith, 17 comments
Lode Runner was released on XBLA back on April 22nd, 2009, but was met with middling success. I would assume that those of you who did purchase the game will have thought that you had finished it a w
community members have subscribed to receive updates for this game.
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App del giorno iOS: Private Calculator gratis su App Store
Eccoci come sempre ad un nuovo appuntamento con la nostra rubrica per le app in saldo. Si tratta infatti di app o giochi in offerta gratuita per iOS, iPhone ed iPad. Per poche ore, dunque, potrete scaricare gratis app o giochi altrimenti a pagamento. Oggi vi proponiamo in offerta gratuita Private Calculator, che presenta le seguenti caratteristiche:
Private Calculator can hide your photos/videos/documents/notes/contacts behind a calculator. What everyone can see is just an ordinary calculator. You can access your private world by entering your password on the calculator.
Private Albums:
– Import Photo/Video from Camera Roll
– Multiple size of thumbnail
– Creating custom albums
– Photo slideshow
– Full screen, full functional photo viewer.
File Manager:
– Wifi File transfer to/from PC/Mac
– Support almost all video formats: avi, mkv, wmv, flv, mp4, m4v …etc
– Support Image files: jpg, png, gif, bmp
– Support Document files: txt, html, pdf, doc …etc
– Support creating custom folder
– Unzip file
– Share Files with other APPs
Private Browser:
– Simple, elegant UI and full feature private browser
– Bookmark & History manager
– Switch to Desktop/iPhone/iPad browser easily
– Download all images on the page by one button
– Multiple tab
Private Notes:
– Unlimited to create notes
– Custom font and font size
– Copy/Share/Send Mail
Private Contact:
– Unlimited to add contacts
– Import contacts from iPhone
– Add memo for contact
– Quick dialing / send SMS / send Email
Password recorder:
– Unlimited to save passwords
– Encrypt password data
More Features:
– Simple & Fast calculator
– Automatically back to calculator when the app in background
– Shake to unlock – Shake your device after entering the password to access your folder, avoid someone entering your password unintentionally.
– Touch ID – use Touch ID to unlock.
– Decoy Mode – use decoy passcode to enter an empty fake space.
– The APP name is 'My Calculator' on springboard


text:
Started the February Lady Sweater.
Messed up...
Started again.. (got it right after a half dozen times--because I had to do it MY WAY.
Images to follow (the light is all wrong now)
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Here, Gone and Back Again (but no photo)
Posted by Helen Griffin at 6:40 PM
Labels: february lady sweater
3 comments:
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We're doing surprisingly well. It was an inauspicious start to the holidays, what with me being ill and struggling for the first week, which was of course the week that husband had taken off work - which was good because he could amuse the children, but it was bad because we missed out on family days out. Although we did go to Old Trafford for the Olympic football.
|Two excited children
|That's Team GB down there!
And then, to celebrate the opening ceremony the next day, we had an Olympics-themed tea.
|I know top left should be blue but I couldn't find
anything suitable!
On the last but one day of the Olympics, I took the children to MediaCity to see a special preview screening of a new Justin's House episode in the piazza.
Yes, Justin is on stage there before the episode was shown on the big screen - we were asked to stay sat down so the children could see what was going on. To make it even more exciting, afterwards, we were invited for lunch in Dock House (the building you can see top left of the picture) along with lots of other lovely bloggers and we got to do this.
Which brings us onto this week. We've been chilling a lot (and missing the Olympics) but Missy Woo has just come back from an overnight visit to Granny and Grandad's, during which she had her birthday treat from them of a trip to see the Dora the Explorer show, as well as being spoilt rotten by Granny buying her clothes and more presents. Monkey and I stayed home and made cake - I can blame Great British Bake Off for his renewed cravings for cake. He also discovered a programme on CBBC that he liked this week called "I Want My Own Room" and got very excited when they visited Dock House, showing them visiting the building we'd been inside only a few days before.
Today marks the end of the fourth week and it actually feels like it has flown. Missy has two parties this weekend and then husband is off next week so we're hoping to go on some days out then we are going to my niece's wedding over the bank holiday weekend. After that, we will be into the Paralympics. The most exciting thing about that is I managed to secure tickets for one of the athletics sessions for all of us this afternoon for just after the children go back to school. I couldn't believe it! We are all now really excited and have something to look forward to once the holidays are over.
How have your holidays been so far? I hope you are surviving. Let me know how you're coping and what you've been doing.