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Irish and Spanish banks coping well with bad loans
Irish and Spanish banks are managing to reduce their stocks of non-performing loans (NPLs) at a quicker rate than their counterparts in Italy and Portugal.
But Ireland's "slow judicial system" is presenting a challenge to banks seeking to repossess and sell assets.
The information is contained in a report from Standard & Poor's, which says that between them, the four countries accounted for around half of the entire European stock of NPLs at the end of last year.
The S&P research expects Irish and Spanish NPL stocks to decline to about 11% of their loan portfolios by the end of 2018, as a result of strong GDP growth.
However, Italy's NPLs will remain elevated above 16%, as will Portugal's at 21%.
S&P estimates that in Ireland, at the end of 2016, NPLs were down to one third of their 2013 peak and represented about 16% of the gross domestic loan book – down from 22% at the end of 2015, and 37% at the end of 2013.
In Spain, NPLs dropped by 30% from their 2013 peak to about 15% of gross system-wide loans at the end of 2016.
However, in Italy only a "marginal contraction" of its 19% of NPLs is expected by the end of 2018, and Portugal's NPL stocks actually rose last year, reaching about. 21% of gross loans.
S&P also views a rebound in the property markets both here and in Spain as helping in tackling NPLs.
The report states: "The Irish and Spanish property markets have recently returned to being a credit support after their peak-to-trough fall during the 2008-2011 crisis of more than 50% and 40%, respectively.
"Their property market recoveries started earlier and at a more sustained pace than in Italy and Portugal, where property-value declines have been less pronounced (at about 30% and 24% from their peak, although it was quite relevant in the absence of a real estate bubble).
Though in its assessment, S&P said asset quality problems in Ireland are "unlike other countries… concentrated in the residential mortgage sector, accounting for about one-half of the total stock of domestic NPLs".
The research added that the stock of NPLs in residential mortgages here "is expected to remain sizeable given Ireland's slow judicial system, which tends to discourage foreclosure".
S&P also pointed out that the "high volume of cases moving through the Irish judicial system and the timelines associated with the repossession proceedings for residential property are a key challenge for Irish banks and their ability to repossess and sell collateral in an efficient manner".
The report also underlines the benefit of setting up a bad bank both here and in Spain to manage NPLs.
It said: "They helped to initiate the beginning of a secondary market of distressed assets in these two countries.
"Since the inception of the bad banks, the volumes of asset sales increased in Ireland and Spain, while in Italy and Portugal they remained limited".


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6. The probate files of the estates of President and Mrs. Lincoln, and Thomas (Tad) Lincoln are in the Ill. State Hist. Lib. Data in this chapter is taken from these files and from a private memorandum kept by Justice Davis, now owned by his heirs, Bloomington, Ill.
[ return to text ]

subset: commoncrawl


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Welcome to show #160 where we talk to Invicta FC Bantamweight Champion, Tonya Evinger. One of our all-time favorite guests, Tonya is fresh off her latest title defense at Invicta FC 17 against Colleen Schneider that extended her win streak to 9 bouts. Tonya also answers questions from the live audience, describes the Laura Sanko kiss, gets a bucket out in case she hurls and talks a bout a few things both inside and outside the cage. In the middle of the chat Chucky Cheats exits abruptly to meet his wife at the hospital after she suffered an injury at BJJ. All was (somewhat) ok and Mrs. Cheats will be back on the mats by the end of the year, stronger and better than ever. Yak tried to recap UFC 198 and the highlights included a day of vodka and sleep. See you all Monday night at 9pm est!
Tonya Evinger!
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Android | Email | Google Play | Stitcher | RSS


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Tuesday, 02 September, 2014, 4:03am
News›Hong Kong
Simon T M Ng
Recent comments from Richard Dawkins highlight a hole in our civil rights protections
The prominent Oxford scientist Richard Dawkins recently issued a controversial tweet advising a woman to "abort it and try again" if she was pregnant with a baby with Down's syndrome. He said "it would be immoral to bring it into the world if you have the choice".
The tweet caused a storm on social media, and Dawkins was forced to apologise.
Even though genetics and science can reveal impairments and limitations, they aren't good predictors of life.
Recently I read a feature about Chris Burke, the celebrated American actor with Down's syndrome. I also recall another story of a talented girl with Down's syndrome, Bryann Burgess, who qualified as a music teacher after undergoing a course of study and an internship at South Carolina University. I wonder what Dawkins would say about them.
The world has a wealth of talented "disabled" people. The famous animal science professor Dr Temple Grandin, who has autism, was once misdiagnosed as unteachable. But she turned her picture-based thinking into an asset in her career.
Stephen Wiltshire, the artist who has a gift in drawing life-like, detailed cityscapes after brief observations, is autistic and had no language until the age of nine. Queen Elizabeth awarded him an MBE in 2006.
There is also a non-verbal, autistic young gentleman, Brad Fremmerlid, who has a special talent for putting furniture together and has a small business in Edmonton, Canada.
Life can be constructed more positively. An accommodating society is what we need.
Treating disabled people as inferior would only lead to exclusion and marginalisation. Over the last four decades or so, a new perspective has developed: the problem does not lie in the individual's own limitations. Rather, it is about the biases of others, environmental barriers and the legal and organisational obstacles in everyday life.
Legal theory on disability equality has undergone a paradigm shift to a rights-based approach. The notions of respect for diversity and equal rights are at the core. It recognises that every individual, with or without a disability, is equally capable of exercising rights, and should be given equal opportunity to live to his or her full potential.
The legal concept of reasonable adjustment is the key to address the issues of societal barriers. The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities defines it as the "necessary and appropriate modification and adjustment not imposing a disproportionate or undue burden, where needed in a particular case, to ensure to persons with disabilities the enjoyment or exercise on an equal basis with others of all human rights and fundamental freedoms".
Reasonable adjustment requires duty-bearers to recognise the disadvantage caused by treating a disabled person the same as everyone else; and it requires that reasonable steps be taken to remove that disadvantage by treating the person differently.
It is a complicated concept but it is fundamental to a piece of good disability rights law.
Unfortunately, the idea of reasonable adjustment has been missing from the Disability Discrimination Ordinance since it was enacted in 1996, making the legislation somewhat inefficacious. The Equal Opportunities Commission should recognise that need in its current discrimination law review public consultation.
Simon Ng is an assistant professor and senior programme director of law at the School of Professional and Continuing Education, University of Hong Kong
Source URL (retrieved on Nov 10th 2014, 10:41pm): http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1583135/its-high-time-reasonably-adjust-our-disability-laws


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The Mouthful
Quick Bites
Food happenings in Burque town
Tapped in
I'm always happy to see another tap room open, so Chama River's new Draft Station (1720 Central SW) is a welcome new stop on my way from Downtown to Old Town. They boast a number of Chama beers as well as a few from their sister brewery, the Blue Corn Café, and a rotating selection from the likes of La Cumbre and Marble. Like I said, I'm happy to see them open up, but with Boxing Bear, Red Door and another Bosque Brewing location either having already set up shop or getting ready to do so, I can't help but wonder if this local brew renaissance can last much longer. We'll just have to see who's still standing in five years. Until then, I'll do my best to keep my favorites in business (glug, glug).


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As a place where food and beverages are served, restaurants are highly prone to becoming victims of a variety of pests.
When pests see your fully stocked fridge and busy kitchen with an accidental food spill here or there, they see a feast. Even the cleanest, high-end restaurants can become contaminated simply due to the nature of food production.
Having a pest problem in your restaurant isn't a statement on the quality of your food, or the cleanliness of your restaurant. Swiftly handling any pest issues that arise with timely restaurant pest control is the key to maintaining your establishment's reputation for being health-conscious, and producing quality food.
These types of pests are ones you should look out for in your Toronto restaurant, as they are attracted to open sources of food and water:
If you're in need of commercial pest control, call a trusted Toronto pest control company like Terminix Canada to immediately assess your situation. Providing over 20 years of pest control in Toronto, we'll start with a complete and thorough pest inspection to determine where pests are on the premises. Based on our findings, we'll deliver a commercial pest control plan to combat the problem, and prevent future pest infestations from occurring. We also offer safe, pesticide-free treatment options to ensure that your environment is sanitary but safe for food production.


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When I am sending a Quote using the Save and Email I do not have the option to change the layout. How can I select a different layout if I want to?
The system believes that you are going to use the default email layout. If this is not the case you can change the way the emails are sent out.
If your Customer needs to have a different layout emailed to them. From the Quote Screen, right click Open Customer, select Layout Setup, and change the Quotes - Email to the Layout that is required.
Save these settings and return to the Quote and email. Return the above settings to Default Layout if this is a one off change.


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Time Linear
As low as:
Delivery time: within 15 working days
Delivery time: within 15 working days
The shipment of our products is FREE to the mainland UK.
We cannot deliver to Islands (Isle of Man, Isle of Wight, Jersey etc.) but we will deliver to the nearest port within mainland UK.
We cannot deliver to Islands (Isle of Man, Isle of Wight, Jersey etc.) but we will deliver to the nearest port within mainland UK.
Details:Time Linear spiral staircase – Diameter: 115 to 135 cm. Number of steps: 13, 14, 15 and 17 (14, 15, 16 and 18 risers).
Time Linear is a spiral staircase with the safest treads around. Fontanot's patented 2:Easy tread design makes going up and down the stairs easier and safer. Ideal for the modern home, this elegant staircase is available in various dimensions and comes in three different finishes.
Perfect for adding a modern vibe to your interior, the design of these Italian spiral stairs combines the beauty of wood and the contemporary effect of steel. Quality materials are used for this unique staircase. Indeed, it is composed of ergonomic wooden treads, a steel structure and railings constructed with carbon steel balusters varnished in epoxy powder, and a PVC handrail.
The central structure of the spiral staircase is in painted carbon steel, while the 2:Easy Fontanot steps are in birch plywood and are 44mm thick. The 2:Easy Fontanot step system increases the space available for you to place your foot, making the spiral staircase where it is applied, more comfortable while ascending and safer while descending.
|115 cm - 165 cm
|Wood - Steel
|Wood's Essences
|Birch plywood
|Wood colors
|Natural - Dark Havana Brown - Dove Gray
|Metal Color
|Pebble Grey
|Carbon steel balusters with a 20mm diameter, varnished in epoxy powder.
|Colored PVC
Do I need to comply with building regulations?
All spiral staircases whether new or replacement need to comply with the UK building regulations - there are also special requirements for Spiral Stairs and Space Saver stairs which are detailed in BS5395-2, the British Standard which applies to staircases of this type, BS5395-2 is referred to in building regulations as the general standard for spiral staircases and helical stairs.
Spiral Staircase Dimensions under Building Regs BS5395-2
One aspect of UK building regulations is that it refers to British Standard BS5395-2 for most aspects of spiral staircase dimensions.
Generally the two key tread dimensions are:
Clear tread width - measured between the INSIDE of the handrail and the centre column - this should be a MINIMUM of 600mm
Tread riser height - this should be a MAXIMUM of 220mm to meet UK building regulations. Generally if you divide the total finished floor to finished floor height of your room (NOT floor to ceiling!) by 220mm this will give you the minimum number of risers in your staircase to meet building regs. If the result is not a whole number then you need to adjust to the next whole number above - e.g. if the result is 13.5 risers, you actually need 14 risers.
Please note most spiral staircases with height adjustment will have a quoted range of adjustment up to 230mm per riser - if you need to use a riser height above 220mm for any reason then we suggest you first contact your building control department for clearance.
More Info


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- This event has passed.
March 21, 2015 @ 2:00 pm - 2:30 pmFree
As-salaamu 'alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakaatuh,
Bismillahi walhamdulillah was-salaatu was-salaamu 'alaa Rasoolillah
In-sha-Allah there will be a telelink with our shaykh Abu 'Abdir-Rahmaan Muhammad 'Ali on Saturday, March 21st, at 2:00pm EST at Musalla As-Sahaba. The topic is yet to be announced.
Dar As-Sahaba presents…
A TELE-LINK with:
Ash-Shaykh Abu 'Abdir-Rahmaan Muhammad 'Ali
(Graduate of the Islamic University of Madeenah, Faculty of Hadeeth)
Date & Time:
Saturday, March 21st at 2:00pm EST
Musalla As-Sahaba
(2835 Dumaurier Ave., Ramsey)
This class is free for both brothers and sisters and we encourage you to benefit from this blessed knowledge and attend. Due to the small size of the Musalla, we ask you to please refrain from distracting others so we can all benefit from the lectures.
Please pass on this message.
Jazakumullahu khair.
Please note that we will also try to broadcast this telelink online, however, this is still tentative. If broadcast, in-sha-Allah, it will be at the following link:
Regarding the online broadcasting, we would like to mention a few points:
1) No recording please. Recording is only permitted for Dar As-Sahaba Admin.
2) If there are any technical difficulties, please be patient and we will try to get it fixed for the following class.
3) Due to time restrictions and our attention on the lecture, we will not be able to entertain any questions/comments from our online participants.
Barakallahu feekum, we appreciate your understanding and cooperation in the above matters.
For our international online participants, please consult the world clock (links below) to find out the lecture time in your local time zone.


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Culture Connoisseur
Ring in 2014 the right way by enjoying the smooth sounds of legendary Jazz pianist Nate King Cole homaged by NEA Master pianist Ramsey Lewis and guitarist-vocalist John Pizzarelli at one of DC's most prominent sites: The Kennedy Center. With a big balloon countdown to the New Year you won't want to be anywhere else.
Location: The John F Kennedy Center of The Performing Arts
Price: $85.00 - $95.00
Purchase Tickets here
If you are out on New Year's Eve on the look out for a perfect spot to relax as well as party, to see and be seen then DC's Point of View (P.O.V) Rooftop Lounge and Terrace is the perfect place for you.
Located atop W Hotel in Downtown, a mere stone throw away from the White House and downtown DC, the P.O.V Rooftop Lounge and Terrace offers its visitors a breathtaking view of the White House and spoils them with excellent music and delicious platters arranged by one of the worlds leading chefs: French Restaurateur Jean-Georges Vongerichten.
What are you waiting for?
Location: On top of the W Hotel
Price: $30
Purchase Tickets here
Listed as one of the most visited attractions in Washington DC, the Newseum offers its visitors an all year around treat with its interactive exhibitions and breathtaking displays. With the largest display of sections of the Berlin wall outside of Germany, a "Todays front page Gallery" display in front of the building which presents daily front pages of over 80 International Newspapers and a gallery of Pulitzer Price awarded photos
The Newseum attracts individuals with a wide array of interests. What many people don't know about the museum, though, is that there is one day of the year when it's doors open past midnight: On New Years Eve.
The annual Headliners Ball at the Newseum is a must for every museum enthusiast, Journalist and a welcoming alternative for whoever wants to make this New Year special. The participants of the Headliners Ball are granted access to all Newseum exhibits, entertainment supplied by The Mustangs and DJ Scientifique and a special countdown on the museums own 40 by 22 ft. video screen. Start the New Year in a setting you love.
Location: Newseum
Price: $150 for non-members, $125 for members
To Purchase Tickets call: 202-292-6100
Is there nothing more that you love than the ripple of waves against the wooden beam of a ship? Does your heart desire nothing more than the sight of DC's monuments basked in bright lights and do you want to spend an unforgettable night cruising the Potomac River? Then why not take the opportunity, gather a group of friends and reserve a spot in one of DC's many New Year's Eve Dinner Cruises?
One of DC's best known Cruise Ships, The Odyssey hosts a special event on the night of December 31 to January 1. While all year it ships tourists and locals alike around the capital, New Year's Eve on The Odyssey is a night filled with live entertainment, dancing, gourmet food, monumental views of DC and fireworks. Make one night a memory for years to come.
Location: Gangplank Marina
Price: $199- $319
Purchase Tickets here
Pulsating beats, explosive energy and an ocean of people around you. If this sounds like the place where you could see yourself spending New Year's Eve then I highly recommend attending the concert of world-renown Swedish DJ Eric Prydz who is playing a special set for his fans and electro lovers at DC's largest concert venue, and one that has prided itself with performances by House and Electro megastars such as David Guetta, Avicii Kaskade and Armin Van Buuren: Echostage.
Prydz who is best known for his single " Call on Me"(2004) continuous this tradition of prominent DJ's at Echostage. His beats will electrify the crowd, spread joy and his performance will promise a New Year's Eve of grand scale.
Location: Echostage
Price: $ 60
Purchase Tickets here
Special Tipp
New Year's Eve in Annapolis is something special for the whole family. Tall and small, young and old can enjoy a night full of live musical entertainment and family friendly activities. The highlights of the night are the two firework displays, one launched at 7:30pm and the second at Midight, off of large boats located in the middle of the bay.
Experience Annapolis from a different side and let yourself be struck by the night's magical buzz.
Location: City Dock
Price: Free :)


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We LOVE Jewels by Jocelyn and were honored to capture images for their upcoming social media campaigns and website. Their demi fine pieces are handmade amd can be dressed up and down, we want everything!
. These images were taken in Boston and NYC and we will be traveling to Cape Town to photograph more of their pieces this week.


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Cardiff and Vale College cadets join forces with the Gryphon Squadron
Cardiff and Vale College has entered into a unique partnership with the Gryphon Squadron in a move that will give its cadet division a much wider range of experiences that no other Welsh college can offer.
Cardiff and Vale College Cadet Division – the CAVDETS – was established to give students the opportunity to gain experiences and industry-recognised qualifications in areas such as leadership, land navigation, medical aid, survival skills, career planning and voluntary work. Qualifications include Level 2 Award for Young Leaders, Level 1 Introduction to First Aid, Level 1 Customer Service Skills and Level 1 Fire Safety and plans are in place to offer BTEC and ILM qualifications.
"CAVDETS aims to provide an enrichment experience for students that offers an insight into the professions of the public services through education, experience, respect and integrity," CAVC Public Services Lecturer and Cadet Commander Tom Jones said. "That is why it is so exciting to have the involvement of the Gryphon Squadron and their support – this isn't happening anywhere else in Wales."
Gryphon Squadron is a non-profit part of the Legion of Frontiersmen and provides training to its squadrons. Led by ex-military personnel, it offers community support in times of need such as flooding.
CAVDETS will be sponsored by the Gryphon Squadron LOF. Cadets will earn the right to wear the cap badge of the Legion of Frontiersmen upon completion of basic training.
Gryphon Squadron Legion Major Steve Jennings said: "We do a lot of charity work and work to support the community and work to help the youth of today progress forward. As an ex-service man I believe we should be doing a lot more for young people – it's easy to do them down but everyone has potential.
"We will provide sponsorship and I will come down to the College twice year to keep an eye on how everyone is doing and to see the cadets' parades."
While Gryphon Squadron will provide support, CAVDETS aims to be more than a military experience. Other organisations that support the cadets include South Wales Police, Welsh Ambulance Service, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, British Red Cross, British Heart Foundation, Maritime Coast Guard Agency, RNLI and Safeguard Armour.
If you would like more information about CAVDETS contact Tom Jones via firstname.lastname@example.com


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Advances in Consumer Research Volume 15, 1988 Pages 411-417
James W. Gentry, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Patriya Tansuhaj, Washington State University
L. Lee Manzer, Oklahoma State University
Joby John, Bentley College
[The authors would like to thank Tom Gracia for his help in data entry and data analysis. Also, the authors would like to thank the Office of Business and Economic Research at Oklahoma State University for their monetary support of the project.]
One continuing debate characterizing the study of consumer behavior revolves around the notion of regional differences in consumption patterns. Perhaps the strongest argument supporting the regional variation concept is offered by Hawkins, Roupe, and Coney (1980), who hypothesized that geographic subcultures can be an important determinant of both consumption and nonconsumption behaviors. They proposed a model of the geographic subculture influence on consumption (shown in Figure 1) and have reported the results of a study designed to investigate regional variation in the preparation and consumption of coffee. The findings of the research suggest that while the percentage of respondents drinking coffee in various regions (East, Midwest, South, and West) is fairly similar (varying from 63 percent in the East to 55 percent in the West), there are radical differences in how coffee is prepared and consumed. For example, the majority (54%) of the respondents in the East used sweeteners and creaming agents in their coffee while few (24%) of their Western counterparts did likewise. Regional variations were also identified with respect to the use of electric vs. nonelectric percolators in the preparation of coffee, the preference of cups vs. mugs from which to drink the beverage, and the relative preferences for drinking their coffee black. Hawkins, Roupe and Coney (1980) conclude that, while the geographic subcultures are changing over time, the regions do not appear to be losing their distinctive flavor.
Other support for a regional analysis of consumption patterns has been found. Cleaver (1982) found regional differences in grocery purchasing. Dardis et al. (1981) reported significant differences in recreational expenditures by geographical area. Wells and Reynolds (1979) reported significant regional differences in life styles. For example, they supported the common stereotypes of the South being more traditional, the West as being relatively liberal, and the East as being cosmopolitan and innovative.
Perhaps the strongest call for marketers to consider geographic subcultures was Garreau's (1981) book, The Nine Nations of North America. The vivid descriptions of various areas of the United States helped stimulate efforts by firms such as Management Horizon and Ogilvy and Mather (Whalen 1983b, 1983c; Marketing News 1984) to promote geographic segmentation. Apparently, this promotion has been successful as firms such as Campbell's Soup (Business Week 1986) are developing regional advertising approaches for products which have been typically promoted using a single national campaign.
The basis for the subdivision of the United States has been investigated empirically, and Garreau's (1981) model has not been supported (Gentry 1986; Kahle 1986). Further, Lesser and Hughes (1986) have found that segmentation bases are generalizable across various geographical regions in the United States.
The primary questions to be investigated in this study are whether geographic subcultures differ in their consumption patterns (more specifically, in their willingness to try new products and the level of risk associated with different products) and if the regions also differ in terms of their underlying cultural beliefs.
Thirty years ago strong demographic differences existed across different regions of the United States. While differences still exist, the general pattern is toward homogenization. For example, while the South and Southwest regions of the United States have traditionally been younger, poorer, and less educated, both areas are "aging" and increasing in income and education levels at a more rapid rate than the rest of the country (Gentry and Grove 1981). Exceptions to this general homogenization trend relate to the distribution of Hispanics throughout the U.S., religious variation, and (probably related to religious variation) household size.
It would appear that regional differences in consumption, to the extent that they exist and to the extent that they are due to income differences, will gradually disappear unless they are due to other causes. Garreau (1981) based his determination of the boundaries of his nine nations on anecdotal evidence, stating that he was uncertain as to the exact criteria used in the development of his maps. According to his speech to the AMA's Third Research Conference (as reported in Whalen 1983a), he was later able to specify better the type of criteria used in developing his model: economic, social, cultural, political, topographic, and natural resources. These criteria relate closely to the physical landscape and psychological landscape criteria incorporated in the Hawkins, Roupe and Coney (1980) model.
More recently, Kahle (1986) pointed out that the basis for geographic segmentation is, in part, the assumption that there are geographic differences in values. He investigated differences in values such as self-respect, self- fulfillment, security, fun and enjoyment, warm relationships, sense of accomplishment, and sense of belonging. Regional differences in values were found, though Garreau's breakdown of areas was not found to coincide with many of the differences.
We will look at other cultural variables and see if geographic differences exist. Specifically, we will investigate the individual's fate orientation, his or her religious commitment, and the ties to their traditional cultural values. Fatalism or fate-orientation may be defined as the belief that all events are predetermined by fate and therefore unalterable by man. The concept is similar to Henry's (1976) value orientation with respect to man's relation to nature, classified as subjugated by, in harmony with, or mastery over nature. People with a relatively high degree of fatalism would be similar to those who believe that man must simply take events as they come, instead of being able to plan, avoid, or master the environment. Varying levels of fate orientation would seem to be explained in large part by differences in religious background. Hirschman (1983b) cites literature indicating that Catholics are relatively fatalistic (Callahan 1963; Gleason 1969), that Protestants are lower in fatalism (Anderson 1970; Greeley 1977), and that Jews are high in terms of internal locus of control (Patai 1977). [Locus of control scales have been used frequently to measure "fatalism" (Aldrich, Lipman, and Goldman 1975; Surlin 1976).] Hoover, Green, and Saegert (1978) proposed that fatalism may explain cross-cultural differences found in levels of perceived risk.
Just as fate orientation may vary across the United States due to the distribution of various religious groups, the level of religious commitment may also vary. Recent studies by Hirschman (1981a, 1981b, 1982a, 1982b, 1982c, 1982d, 1983a, 1983b; 1985) have found religious beliefs to play an important role in the formation of the consumer's values, attitudes and behavior.
In addition, we considered one's adherence to traditional cultural values. Such adherence can be expected to relate directly with perceived risk associated with new products and inversely with their willingness to try those products.
The study will investigate:
1. whether differences exist in cultural values (fate orientation, religious commitment, and adherence to culture) across geographical regions; 2. whether differences exist in related consumer behavior variables(perceived risk and willingness to try new products); and 3. whether differences in cultural values help explain differences in the consumer uncertainty variables.
1. whether differences exist in cultural values (fate orientation, religious commitment, and adherence to culture) across geographical regions; 2. whether differences exist in related consumer behavior variables(perceived risk and willingness to try new products); and 3. whether differences in cultural values help explain differences in the consumer uncertainty variables.
1. whether differences exist in cultural values (fate orientation, religious commitment, and adherence to culture) across geographical regions;
2. whether differences exist in related consumer behavior variables(perceived risk and willingness to try new products); and
3. whether differences in cultural values help explain differences in the consumer uncertainty variables.
Specifically, to the extent that differences in cultural values exist, we hypothesize that those areas higher in fate orientation, in religiosity, and in adherence to cultural values will show higher levels of perceived risk associated with new products and less willingness to try those products.
A questionnaire was distributed to college students in four areas: West (Washington), North Central (Wisconsin), Southwest (Oklahoma), and Northeast (Massachusetts). The respective sample sizes were 67, 98, 189, and 135. The convenience sample of college students was intended to make the overall sample relative homogeneous in terms of socio-economic characteristics.
Fate Orientation. While many studies have used Rotter's (1977) Locus of Control instrument to measure the fatalism construct (Aldrich, Lipman, and Goldman 1975; Surlin 1976), some researchers (Aldrich, Lipman, and Goldman 1975; Chamberlain 1976; Farris and Glenn 1976) developed their own measures. We used three measures: a four-item fatalism scale developed by Farris and Glenn (1976), a six-item Locus of Control scale that Lumpkin (1985) reduced from Rotter's (1966) 29-item scale, and a two-item product-specific scale which we developed. The scales are shown in Figure 2.
Religious Commitment. The respondents were also asked a series of questions as to the role that religion had played in their lives. Hirschman (1981a) measured commitment using a five-point "Very Strong" to "Very Weak" scale. We used the four-item scale developed by Putney and Middleton (1961) to measure the current influence of their religion on their lives. In addition, we added one item which deals with the role that religion had in their upbringing.
Cultural Adherence. We created a five-item scale to determine the respondents' adherence to his/her culture (like to conform to traditional value; culture is worth preserving; young people should adopt new values; want loved ones to behave consistently with tradition; people should not mix other cultural values with their own).
Novelty Seeking. We used the approach taken by Hirschman (1983a), in which she asked respondents how willing they are to try something new. The responses were recorded on a four-point scale anchored by "Very Willing" and "Not at All Willing." We used most of the 15 consumption areas which she used: dance styles, places to shop, fashion clothes, books, magazines, food, restaurants, and hair styles. Due to confusion found earlier in a cross- cultural study using a similar instrument (John, Tansuhaj, Manzer, and Gentry 1986), we dropped home furnishings, movies, political ideas, religious ideas, transportation, and sports. Several respondents gave written and oral feedback that those stimuli elicited a variety of images. Also, the variance in the ratings of those stimuli was greater. In their place, we added toothpaste, cameras, watches, motorcycles, and computers.
Perceived Risk. We used a perceived risk measure similar to the one used by Hoover, Green,- and Saegert (1978). This measure asked how much risk (a great deal, some, little, no) is associated with the use of a product. The risk questions were asked for the same products listed above.
The analysis took three stages: (1) an investigation of the measures themselves; (2) an investigation of regional differences in the perception of uncertainty in the marketplace and in fate-orientation, religious commitment, and cultural adherence; and (3) an investigation of the relationship between the cultural values and uncertainty in the marketplace.
At points it will be more efficient to use unidimensional rather than multidimensional measures in the analysis. Consequently, Cronbach alphas were calculated for the following constructs: Willingness to buy (across the 13 products) .71; risk associated with the products (across the products) .78; Farris and Glenn's (1976) four-item fatalism scale .56; the six-item Lumpkin (1985) locus of control measure .12; the five-item religious commitment measure .92, and the five-item cultural adherence measure .36. The bias toward larger scales is evident in these reliabilities. The cultural adherence measure shows only marginal reliability, while the locus of control measures shows none at all. Lumpkin (1985) found an alpha of .68, but our findings show much less support.
When factor analyses were conducted on the constructs, the fatalism scale and the religious commitment scale were single dimensions as indicated by a scree analysis. The cultural adherence and locus of control measures yielded two factors. Thus, our experience would indicate that those seeking a short locus of control scale for use in survey research should probably not use the Lumpkin (1985) measure. Factor analyses of the willingness to try new products measure and the risk measures each found four groupings of products: fashion- related or symbolic products (fashion clothes, hair styles, dance styles); reading material (books and magazines); entertainment (food and entertainment places); and technological products (cameras, watches, motorcycles, and computers). Factor scores for the four factors were used in further analyses.
Table 1 presents a summary of the marketing and cultural variables across the four areas. The respondents were fairly comparable across regions on most demographics measured except for religion and (unfortunately) age. Graduate students constituted the Wisconsin respondents, while the respondents in the other areas were primarily undergraduates. Some differences across regions can be explained also by age differences, so an analysis using both age and region will be presented later.
The religious distribution varied across the regions with Massachusetts being predominantly Catholic (69%) and Oklahoma predominantly Protestant (57%). Wisconsin had the largest percentage of other (35%), while the Washington distribution was the most balanced across the religious options.
Respondents across the four areas did vary according to cultural adherence, religious commitment, and fate-orientation. Since Oklahoma is located in the conservative Bible Belt, it is not unexpected that respondents from that area expressed the highest level of adherence to traditional cultural values as well as the greatest religious commitment. Areas with the highest percentage of Catholics (Washington and especially Massachusetts) expressed the most fatalistic views; this is consistent with the findings cited by Hirschman (1983b). No differences were found for product-specific fatalism nor for locus of control across the four regions.
Some differences were found across regions for the willingness to try new reading material (books and magazines) and for the risk associated with fashion innovations and new reading materials. Wisconsin and Washington students were more likely to try new books and magazines. Washington respondents perceived a greater level of risk to be associated with symbolic innovations, while Massachusetts respondents perceived the lowest amount of risk associated with new reading materials. That Massachusetts students see the least amount of risk but still are the least likely to try new books and magazines is a somewhat contradictory finding. It had been expected that willingness to try new products would be inversely related to the amount of risk perceived.
Religion (Catholic, Protestant, and other) [International students were deleted from the sample, so that "other" primarily reflects no religious preference. The number of Jews, Moslems, etc., included was too small to treat as a separate category.] and age were also used separately as independent variables in the attempt to explain differences in the cultural and market uncertainty variables (shown in Table 2). Differences in cultural adherence, fate-orientation, and religious commitment were found across religions; however, in most cases, the effect was due almost entirely to the "other" group and not to differences between Catholics and Protestants. "Other" respondents were less likely to adhere to cultural traditions, to have less religious commitment, and to be less likely to blame product failure on fate. However, Protestants were found to be significantly less fatalistic than either Catholics or others. Older (over 22) student respondents showed less adherence to tradition, less religious commitment, and less tendency to blame product failure on chance rather than the manufacturer; however, there were no differences between the two age groups in terms of fate-orientation.
Since religious variation is a major component of geographic subcultures, no further analysis of religious differences was made. However, our intent was to avoid age differences by taking a relatively homogeneous student sample. Since age differences across regions were found and since they are associated with differences in the cultural variables, we investigated the relative effects of both geographic area and age. Due to the fact that the Massachusetts sample had virtually no respondents over the age of 22, we did include an interaction variable. When both age and region are used as independent variables in the ANOVA models, age is not significant while region is for cultural adherence (age: F(1,454) = .4, p = .53; region: F(3,454) = 42.5, p = .00), fate-orientation (age: F(1,463) = 1.15, p = .28; region: F(3,463 = 5.6, p = .00), and religious commitment (age: F(1,463) = 3.6, p = .06; region: F(3,463) = 12.8, p = .00). Thus, the geographic variation associates more with varying cultural values than does age. Similarly, when differences are found for the willingness to try new products and for the risk associated with new products, region is much more significant than age in those cases where one (or both) main effects is (are) significant.
Relating Cultural Variables to the Marketing Uncertainty Variables
The various cultural variables (cultural adherence, religious commitment, fate- orientation, product-specific fatalism, and locus of control) were related to the willingness to try new products and the risk associated with new products using canonical correlations. The results are summarized in Table 3. The set of cultural variables is related to both the willingness to innovate and the risk factors; however, the small redundancy values indicate that the cultural values do not explain a great deal of variance in either set of dependent variables.
For the willingness to try new products variables, the first canonical correlation is significant (Rc = .31, p = .00). Cultural adherence and (to some degree) fate-orientation variables are inversely related to the willingness to try non-technical products (reading materials, fashion, and entertainment). As expected, the stronger the ties to current cultural values and the more fatalistic the respondent is, the less willing one is to try new non-technical products. The willingness to try technical products is not related directly nor inversely to the cultural variables.
Greater risk is associated with non-technical products by those who have higher levels of religious commitment and by those who are more fatalistic. Again, the risk associated with technical products is not related (inversely nor directly) to the cultural variables.
Geographic regions do vary in terms of innovativeness and the levels of perceived risk. Further, differences exist across regions in terms of cultural adherence, religious commitment, and fate-orientation. Finally, the results indicate that the varying cultural values can explain differences in the marketing variables. Residents in those areas with more adherence to traditional values are less likely to try new products. Residents in areas with higher levels of religious commitment and fate-orientation may perceive higher levels of risk associated with new products.
Inadvertently, our study varied age as well as geographic region and we found that the cultural values held by older students differ from those held by younger students. However, geographic area was a much better explanatory variable for both cultural differences and differences in innovativeness and perceived risk.
One implication of these differences in students across regions is that the results challenge the common assumptions that all students are similar. Student subjects have been shown to differ from adult subjects for many types of behavior (Enis, Cox, and Stafford 1972; Hawkins, Albaum, and Best 1977; Park and Lessig 1977; Permut, Michel, and Joseph 1976; Shuptrine 1975). This study points out that student samples may well vary across the United States in terms of their cultural composition.
Thus, the study provides support for the existence of geographic subcultures and for the proposition that cultural differences across areas of the United States result in varying consumption patterns.
Aldrich, Bruce W., Aaron Lipman, and Frank Perry Goldman (1975), "Social Position and World View in a Developing Nation: An Inquiry into the Correlates of Fatalism in Portugal," International Journal of Contemporary, 12 (Nos. 3 and 4, July and October), 253-270.
Anderson, Charles H. (1970, White Protestant Americans, Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall, Inc.
Business Week (1987), "Marketing's New Look," January 26, 64-69.
Callahan, Daniel (1963), The Mind of the Catholic Layman, New York: Scribners.
Chamberlain, Audrey (1976), "Planning versus Fatalism," Journal of Biosocial Science, 8 (January), 1-16.
Deshpande, Rohit, Wayne D. Hoyer, and Nareen Donthu (1986), "The Intensity of Ethnic Affiliation: A Study of the Sociology of Hispanic Consumption," Journal of Consumer Research, 13 (September), 214-220.
Enis, Ron M., Keith K. Cox, and James E. Stafford (1972), "Students as Subjects in Consumer Behavior Experiments," Journal of Marketing Research, 9 (February), 72-74.
Farris, Buford E. and Norval D. Glenn (1976), "Fatalism and Familism among Anglos and Mexican Americans in San Antonio," Sociology and Social Research, 60 (No. 4, July), 393402.
Garreau, Joel (1981), The Nine Nations of North America, Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company.
Gentry, James W. (1986), "The Development of the Boundaries of Geographic Subcultures," in Advances in Consumer Research, Vol. 13, ed. Richard J. Lutz, Provo, UT: Association for Consumer Research, 664.
Gentry, James W. and Stephen J. Grove (1981), "Consumer Markets in the Southwest," paper presented at the Southwest Cultural Heritage Festival, Oklahoma State University.
Gleason, Phillip (1969), Contemporary Catholicism in the United States, Notre Dame, IN: University of Notre Dame Press.
Greeley, Andrew M. (1977), The American Catholic, New York: Basic Books.
Hawkins, Del I., Gerald Albaum, and Roger Best (1977), "An Investigation of Two Issues in the Use of Students as Surrogates for Housewives in Consumer Behavior Studies," Journal of Business, 50 (#2, April), 216-222.
Hawkins, Del I., Don Roupe, and Kenneth A. Coney (1980), "The Influence of Geographic Subcultures in the United States," in Kent B. Monroe (ed.), Advances in Consumer Research, Vol. 7, Arlington, VA: Association for Consumer Research, 713-717.
Henry, Walter (1976), "Cultural Values Do Correlate with Consumer Behavior," Journal of Marketing Research, 13 (May), 121-127.
Hirschman, Elizabeth C. (1981a), "Religious Differences in Cognitions Regarding Novelty Seeking Information Transfer," Advances in Consumer Research, 9, 228-233.
Hirschman, Elizabeth C. (198 lb), "American Jewish Ethnicity: Its Relationship to Some Selected Aspects of Consumption," Journal of Marketing, Summer, 102-110.
Hirschman, Elizabeth C. (1982a), "An Examination of Ethnicity and Consumption Using Free Response Data," American Marketing Association Proceedings, 84-88.
Hirschman, Elizabeth C. (1982b), "Ethnic Variation in Hedonic Consumption," The Journal of Social Psychology, 118, 225-234.
Hirschman, Elizabeth C. (1982c), "Ethnic Variation in Leisure Activities and Motives," American Marketing Association Proceedings. 93-98.
Hirschman, Elizabeth C. (1982d), "Religious Differences and Information Transfer," Advances in Consumer Research, 9, 228-233.
Hirschman, Elizabeth C. (1983a), "Cognitive Structure Across Consumer Ethnic Subcultures: A Comparative Analysis," Advances in Consumer Research, 10, 197-202.
Hirschman, Elizabeth C. (1983b), "Religious Affiliations and Consumption Processes: An Initial Paradigm," Research in Marketing, ed. Jagdesh W. Sheth, Greenwich, CT: JAI Press, Inc., 131-170.
Hirschman, Elizabeth C. (1985), "Primitive Aspects of Consumption in Modern American Society," Journal of Consumer Research, 12 (September), 142-155.
Hoover, Robert J., Robert T. Green, and Joel Saegert (1978), "A Cross-National Study of Perceived Risk," Journal of Marketing, July, 102-108.
John, Joby, Patriya Tansuhaj, L. Lee Manzer, and James W. Gentry (1986), "Fatalism as an Explanation of the Cross Cultural Differences in the Perception of Uncertainty in the Marketplace," AMA Workshop on Culture and Subculture, DePaul University.
Kahle, Lynn R. (1986), "The Nine Nations of North America and the Value Basis of Geographic Segmentation," Journal of Marketing, 50 (April), 37-47.
Lesser, Jack A. and Marie Adele Hughes (1986), "The Generalizability of Psychographic Market Segments Across Geographic Locations," Journal of Marketing, 50 (January), 18-27.
Lumpkin, James R. (1985), "Validity of a Brief Locus of Control Scale for Survey Research," Psychological Reports, 57, 655-659.
Marketing News (1984), "Data Base Offers Consumer Profiles from Nine Nations," May 25, p. 8.
McCracken, Grant (1980), "Culture and Consumption: A Theoretical Account of the Structure and Movement of the Cultural Meaning of Consumer Goods," Journal of Consumer Research, 13 (June), 71-84.
Park, C. Whan and V. Parker Lessig (1977), "Students and Housewives: Differences in Susceptibility to Referent Group Influence," Journal of Consumer Research, 4 (September), 102-110.
Patai, Raphael (1977), The Jewish Mind, New York: Charles Scribners and Sons.
Permut, Steven E., Allen J. Michel, and Monica Joseph (1976), "The Researcher's Sample: A Review of the Choice of Respondents in Marketing Research," Journal of Marketing Research, 13 (August), 278-283.
Putney, S. and R. Middleton (1961), "Dimensions of Religious Ideology," Social Forces, 39, 285-290.
Rotter, J. B. (1966), "Generalized Expectancies for Internal versus External Control of Reinforcement," Psychological Monographs, 80 (1 whole no. 609).
Shuptrine, F. Kelly (1975), "On the Validity of Using Students as Subjects in Consumer Behavior Investigations," Journal of Business, 48 (#3, July), 383-390.
Surlin, Stuart H. (1976), "Fatalism and Authoritarianism: Predictors of Professional Attitudes in Journalism," Journalism Quarterly, 53 (No. 1, Spring), 68-73.
Wells, William D. and Fred D. Reynolds (1979), "Psychological Geography," Research in Marketing, Vol. 2, Chicago: JAI Press, Inc., 345-357.
Whalen, Bernie (1983a), "The Nine Nations of North America," Marketing News, January 21, pp. 1, 18, 19.
Whalen, Bernie (1983b), "Ad Agency Cross-Tabs VALS with 'Nine Nations'; Results 'Unnerving'," Marketing News, January 21, p. 20.
Whalen, Bernie (1983c), "Marketing Research Firm Segments U.S. into Fifteen Geodemographic Regions," Marketing News, May 13, p. 8 (Section 2).


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The River Lizards, as they have come to be known, are a suggested genus of small theropod dinosaur.Their exact classification is not known (as they are cryptids), although a variety of primitive ornithomimosaur similar to Pelecanimimus or Harpymimus is the most widely accepted theory. Other suggestions have been made that they are perhaps descended from a member of the Troodontidae, or Dromaeosauridae families.
Max Height: 3.5 ft (1 metre) [to five feet] Both of these models can easily be combined into a description of one kind of "Minidinosaur" and the size given for the "River Liz" matches the"Mountain Boomer" male. In fact there is no reason to make the size differences into sex differences rather than growth stages. The "River Liz" head should similarly be shortened and roundish, and the coloration of both being in basically a green background shading to gray in parts like the belly, overlain by large irregular brown bands or splotches. The back has a sort of a crest on it and there may be hornlike structures on the head. All of this is in agreement with the actual reports.
Max Length: 5 ft (1.5 metres)[to 2 meters/ 7 feet long]
Max Weight: 33 lb (15 kg)
Diet: Omnivore, Insectivore
Rarity: Relatively common


text:
Haggis: A Little History
Myth and mystery have surrounded the origins of the
haggis. Where did it come from? What does the name mean? What is
it made of? This delightful little book dispels the myths and reveals
the fascinating truth about Scotland's most famous dish.
Clarissa Dickson Wright is an expert on food history. She appears
frequently in food programmes on TV and radio and has written numerous
This book is published by Appletree Press.


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Investment Risk
There are various classes of investment, with different degrees of high or low risk
Investment is putting your money at risk, to be used in business long term, in the hopes that you can receive a good return on your money. Low risk investing is based on the assumption that history will continue for the foreseeable future. Therefore, even though any one company may fail, over time, the overall market will continue to grow beyond the short term ups and downs. We invest, then, as broadly and as balanced as possible.
At the heart of the investment management industry are the managers who invest and divest client investments.
A certified company investment adviser should conduct an assessment of each client's individual needs and risk profile. The adviser then recommends appropriate investments.
The investment style selected for each client depends upon risk appetite and return expectation. There are a range of different styles of fund management that the institution can implement.
For example, growth, value, market neutral, small capitalization, indexed, etc. Each of these approaches has its distinctive features, adherents and, in any particular financial environment, distinctive risk characteristics.
The risk-return spectrum is the relationship between the amount of return gained on an investment and the amount of risk undertaken in that investment. The more return sought, the more risk that must be undertaken.
There are various classes of possible investments, each with their own positions on the overall risk-return spectrum. The general progression is: short-term debt; long-term debt; property; high-yield debt; equity. There is considerable overlap of the ranges for each investment class.
Someone who invests money they cannot afford to lose – such as building a retirement fund or a child's education fund – should look for lower risk, and should lower the risk of the investment closer to the time they are going to need the funds. You want your investments to have a chance to overcome seasonal problems in the market.


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Tips Worth Considering When Choosing a Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center
With the availability of many drug and alcohol rehab facilities in Texas, choosing the ideal one can be daunting. Since most of them differ in various ways, it is of paramount importance to take time and weigh them before settling on any center. As such, the following are some of the key points you should keep in mind while picking the right drug and alcohol rehab.
Ideally, you need a drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility that is accredited and licensed. For that reason, check if your preferred rehab center is authorized by your state to carry out addiction treatment. It is also wise to examine if the doctors and staff members are qualified and hold a valid license.
Location is another factor you ought to keep in mind when selecting a treatment center which should be guided by the kind of treatment provided in that particular facility. You will find that most of the rehab centers provide inpatient and outpatient programs. Should you choose the inpatient program; you will have to get away from home and stay in the rehab throughout to be able to focus on your recovery. However, outpatient programs permits you to reside at your home, but you will only visit the center the day you have an appointment.
Cost is another major factor you ought to keep in mind when selecting a rehab center in Texas. Some rehabs offer free drug and alcohol treatments because they operate on grants and government contracts. Although they are free, these rehabs have a long waiting list and may not offer the kind of medication you are looking for.By chance, there are rehab centers that you can afford.For instance, outpatient programs are charged a few hundred dollars while inpatient programs are quite expensive where you may pay about then of thousand dollars. Insurance cover, on the other hand, may come in handy especially if your drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility accepts the cover.
In conclusion, ensure that the rehabilitation facility you choose has the kind of therapy you need. Do not assume that the type of treatment used by another patient will work on you because drug addiction problems vary from one patient to another. As such, it is essential to take an addiction assessment to determine the severity of your addiction. Similarly, the addiction test will tell you the right program that will meet your needs in addition to choosing the right anti-drug addiction medicine.Depending on the severity of addiction, some of the treatment programs you can choose from include, cognitive behavioral therapy, 12-step and non-12-step, individual and group sessions. With these treatment programs, you are sure that your drug addiction problem will come to an end.Conversely, if you are not satisfied with these treatment procedures, you can consider choosing another facility that provides different methods.
A 10-Point Plan for Wellness (Without Being Overwhelmed)


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NEMSA Ewe lambs Top at £280
The North Craven Smearsett flock of WA&A Booth, from Old Hall Farm, notched up a notable double when winning both the tens and 20s show classes at the opening annual ewe lamb show and sale for members of the North of England Mule Sheep Association (NEMSA). (Tues, Sept 6)
Robin Booth led out the two title-winning show pens for the family, who also secured back-to-back championship and reserve championship successes at the corresponding fixtures in 2013 and 2014. The NEMSA showcase remains one of the leading fixtures of its kind in the North of England and the first major Mule lamb sale of the year.
Half of the champion pen of ten was by the family's renowned Bluefaced Leicester ram, D15 Smearsett, a former Kilnsey Show supreme champion, who has been used to good effect by the Booths for the past five years. He was also responsible for some of their previous victors.
The latest title winners sold for the day's leading price of £280 per head, up £30 on the previous year, to Ross Sizmur, of Okehampton in Devon, while the Booth's first prize pen of 20s, which had similar breeding, also achieved top price in their section when selling for £180 each to the same buyer.
Mr Sizmur, who was making his first-ever visit to Skipton, is a North of England Mule aficionado, keeping up to 1,500 ewe lambs at any one time and selling them on at every stage of their development. He said the breed was ideally suited to his rich and fertile lowland pastures.
A solid turnout of 7,357 Mules sold at an overall average of £96.84 per head, up £6.35 on 2015. The quality of the pre-sale show was particularly impressive, with 21 pens of ten and 12 pens of 20 presented for judging.
"It was probably as good a show as there has ever been, with another excellent turnout of quality sheep by our members. Trade was straight and both vendors and buyers were reasonably happy," commented NEMSA Skipton branch chairman Neil Heseltine, of Malham,
Craven Cattle Marts' livestock sales manager and auctioneer Ted Ogden said: "Overall, it proved a very pleasing sale, with the average showing a sensible increase on the year. The better lambs on the day took the best lift on the year, while a commercial lamb saw a marginal increase."
Former Skipton branch chairman Kevin Wilson, of Blubberhouses, who headed last year's prices, was second top this year when his second prize pen of tens sold for £205 per head to Leicestershire buyer, Ken Gill, of Burton Lazars. They were by a selection of home-bred tups, along with others from Alan Busby's Harland flock. Mr Wilson was also responsible for the fourth prize pen of 20s, which made £142 each.
Multiple past champions Ashley and Rachael Caton, of Otterburn, were again among the front runners with the second prize pen of 20s, which made £135 each, and the fifth prize tens pen, sold for £170 per head. The same price was achieved by fourth prize pen from the Fawcett family in Drebley, who also stepped up with the fifth prize £138 per head 20s.
Charles and Richard Kitching, of Threshfield, also sold a pen at £195, closely followed by a £190 pen from Ellis Bros, of Addingham Moorside.
CCM Auctions again presented cash prizes for the day's leading flock averages. Of the vendors consigning 100 or more lambs, it was the Booth family who again led the way when their 137-strong consignment averaged £137.81 per head, with James and Janet Huck, of Austwick, second top with 125 lambs at £120.52.
The Fawcett family - husband and wife Stephen and Tracey Fawcett, and their daughter Samantha - led the flock averages for under 100 lambs, with their 72 charges levelling at £121.75 per head, followed by Calton's Robert Crisp with 64 at £107.16 each.
Title winners in both show classes received Ciba Geigy perpetual trophies, with the champion pen of tens, judged by John Greenhalgh, of Bashall Eaves, and John Gate, from Northwich, also awarded the Chester Kneller Memorial Trophy. Co-judges in the 20s class were David Calvert, of West Marton, and Airton's Alan Thwaite.


text:
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Category Archives: Total Screw-Ups
I hadn't actually taken into account a little thing known as reality
Don't you just hate it when an idea doesn't quite work out as you expect… or want? In fact, never mind that "quite" business… when it doesn't work out at all as you expect. Y'see, I had this rather neat … Continue reading
Posted in Adventures, Photography Chat, Total Screw-Ups Tagged dust, home, humour, ideas, junk, loft, photography, project, rubbish 6 Comments
Um. Yes. Well.
Sometimes I wonder if I'll ever manage to do anything at all without screwing it up in some way. Some oversight or some stupidity on my part that negates all the effort and the good intentions. You'd think I'd be … Continue reading
Posted in Out and About, Total Screw-Ups Tagged blogging, drafts, humour, incompetence, posts, scheduling, stupidity 2 Comments
The day's shaping up nicely
Today had all the makings of one of those days that you really wish hadn't happened… but then are rather pleased did. Started off with me supposed to be doing a little jobbie today. All very straightforward, nothing particularly complicated… … Continue reading
Posted in Adventures, Photography Chat, Total Screw-Ups Tagged flickr, humor, humour, lumix fz38, photography, rain, slideshows, weather 5 Comments
And now I don't feel so happy…
… cos one of my fave photographers, Wouter Brandsma (whose work I really admire and enjoy) has just announced that he's broken his back! That's such bad news, and I guess he's feeling like absolute shit at the mo'. Wouter, … Continue reading
Posted in Stuff, Total Screw-Ups Tagged accidents, photography, sometimes life sucks, wouter brandsma 1 Comment
And check the blog
Hmm. Just been reading "Our Gigantic Impulse Control Disorder" (which, in turn, is a commentary on another blog post by some guy named Chris Brogan). And I wish I hadn't. Cos it seems I now have to add something else … Continue reading
Posted in Kit, Rants, Stuff, Total Screw-Ups Tagged addictions, blogging, internet, mobile phones, nokia e71, orange, photojournalism, rant, technology 9 Comments


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Lilo and Stitch came out on DVD last week, and when I got home from work on Friday we all (all five of us) sat down to watch it. 'Twas wonderful, I enjoyed it just as much as I did in the theater; I think it's the best thing Disney has done in years (the Pixar films not included).
If you've not seen it, Lilo and Stitch is the story of Stitch, an alien creature genetically engineered to be incredibly smart, amazingly destructive, and effectively indestructible. He's exiled by the Galactic Council, but escapes, ending up crashlanding on the island of Kuaui. Here he meets Lilo, a little girl who is also amazingly destructive, though in her case it's all down to nurture rather than nature. Lilo's parents died in a car crash when she was small, leaving her in the care of her older sister Nani. Nani means well, but things are not going at all well when Stitch comes into their lives, and with his destructive tendencies, they only become worse. Lilo and Stitch together wreak more havoc (almost all of it unintentional) than either do apart--they make a good team.
But here's the point I really like. Stitch is supposed to be smart--and he is. He soon realizes that's there's no future in being destructive. He's all alone; there are no others like him. If he wants to belong somewhere, his best bet is to make things work with Nani and Lilo, and eventually he does. This is a movie about family, and especially about making a broken, battered family work.
On top of that the movie is just a lot of fun. The opening hula sequence, featuring Pudge the fish and a peanut butter sandwich, is simply beautiful; I bought a copy of the soundtrack just for the song that accompanies it. Then there's the scene where Stitch destroys San Francisco; and the long sequence where Lilo, in an attempt to turn Stitch into a model citizen, tries to teach him to behave like Elvis Presley (it ends on the beach with a brief, though very understated, tribute to Frankenstein). And how can you not like a social worker who says things like, "So far you have been adrift in the sheltered harbor of my patience."
Anyway, two thumbs up here (both of mine, that is). If you've not seen it, and even if you don't have kids, buy it or rent it and enjoy.Posted by Will Duquette at December 9, 2002 08:03 PM


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Earlier in the month I blogged about September knit/crochet goals. I really haven't been doing great with getting those specific goals done. However, I thought I'd share some photos on what I have accomplished.
First on the list is to knit a baby hat. I was going to do this for Mornings With Brant's Knit, Pray, Love project. Originally they said items had to be knitted but have since changed to allowing crocheted items so I think this crocheted hat will count for that. I'm planning on making more!
Next on the list was to crochet a bunny for Arsha. Here's the yarn. Now I need inspiration...
I also haven't gotten to work on the monkey for Caitlin.
This is the WIP baby blanket for Heather. I've made progress but haven't finished.
Here's the hat for Brandi's baby-on-the-way. It still needs a flower or some kind of embellishment, and I'd like to make booties to match.
This is the start of the flower scarf. I haven't progressed any since my original post.
I've also made a Where's Waldo? baby cap that I think will go to Kelly.
I've learned to knit. This bunny is made out of my practice knitting.
I've also made my first knitted scarf for myself. It's embellished with a LaLoo Designs flower accessory. (My sis is the brains and hands behind LaLoo designs.)


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Our Story
Dog Wash Singapore
Dog Wash is Asia's exclusive provider of the K9000, a self-service dog wash that shampoos, conditions, treats fleas and ticks and dries a medium sized dog in as little as 10 minutes!
Washes over ONE MILLION dogs each year!
Recognised as the world's leading self-service dog wash, the K9000 was designed in Australia, where it continues to be manufactured. Achieving increasingly rapid global growth, the K9000 is now present in over 700 locations, with operations in the USA, Europe, Canada, Australia, Israel, New Zealand and Singapore.
Thanks to and created by the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Singapore. Dog Wash Singapore is Asia's leading D-I-Y dog washing company, and the exclusive provider of the industry leading K9000 Dog Wash. "We saw a great opportunity for D-I-Y dog washing in Singapore".
Aside from operating on a stand-alone basis, K9000 dog washes work in conjunction with car washes , pet groomers, condominiums, service stations, convenience stores, pet hospitals, vet clinics, dog franchises and more, connecting easily to existing power, water and drainage points.
If you're wanting to know more about the K9000, whether as a customer or operator, please do not hesitate to Contact Us.


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Tottenville HS (THS) Class of 2014 Alumni List
Help us Update the Tottenville HS 2014 Class List by adding any names missing from the list below:
Registered Alumni
2014 Class List
- Miesrah Abdelhafez
- Mariam Amer
- Carmine Bonavoglia
- Mitchell Bromberg
- Alexandra Chow
- Justin Dinolfo
- Joseph Glancy
- Dane Grandone
- Samantha Irizarry
- Binghui Jiang
- Chamakro Kronto
- Joseph Laspina
- Anthony Lauer
- Vincent Liow
- Rachel Lopez
- John Matzo
- Mark Nasr
- Angelo Nastasi
- Jason Nowlon
- Ilarie Pacheco
- Isaac Perrotti
- Nicholas Rentas
- Nikki Rubin
- Kaitlyn Russo
- Robert Sanseverino
- Ryan Saunders
- Hannah Shetyn
- Joesph Siciliano
- Stephiel Steven
Know Tottenville HS Class of 2014 graduates that are NOT on this List? Help us Update the 2014 Class List by adding missing names.
Reunions and Tottenville High School News
More 2014 alumni from Tottenville HS have posted profiles on Classmates.com®. Click here to register for free at Classmates.com® and view other 2014 alumni.
Missing some friends from Tottenville that graduated with you in 2014? Check the list below that shows the Tottenville class of '14.
While you are reminiscing about the times you spent in high school at Tottenville High School, you should also check out alumni photos, yearbook listings and share any reunion info if possible.


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Managing Suicidal Risk: A Collaborative Approach
Total CE Credit Hours: 8
Course Info URL: http://www.ce-credit.com/courses/100986
About the Course:
This clinical manual offers essential tools and guidance for therapists of any orientation faced with the complex challenges of assessing and treating a suicidal patient. In a large, ready-to-photocopy format, the book provides step-by-step instructions and reproducible forms for evaluating suicidal risk, developing a suicide-specific outpatient treatment plan, and tracking clinical progress and outcomes using documentation that can help to reduce the risk of malpractice liability. In addition to providing a flexible structure for assessment and intervention, The Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS) approach is designed to strengthen the therapeutic alliance and increase patient motivation. Highly readable and user friendly, the volume builds on 15 years of empirically oriented clinical research.
Publication Date:
Paperback © 2006
David A. Jobes, Ph.D.
About the Author:
David A. Jobes, PhD, is a Professor of Psychology at The Catholic University of America, where he is also the Codirector of Clinical Training of the PhD clinical psychology program. With research interests in suicidology, he has published extensively in the field and routinely conducts professional training in clinical suicidology. Dr. Jobes is a consultant to the U.S. Air Force Suicide Prevention Program and is a clinical consultant to the Psychology Service of the Washington, DC, Veterans Affairs Medical Center. He has served as a consultant to various Washington, DC, area counseling centers, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences. Dr. Jobes is Associate Editor for the journal Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior. He is a past president, treasurer, and board member of the American Association of Suicidology (AAS) and is a recipient of the AAS Edwin S. Shneidman Award in recognition of early career contributions to suicidology. As a board-certified clinical psychologist (American Board of Professional Psychology), Dr. Jobes maintains a private clinical and forensic practice at the Washington Psychological Center.
Recommended For:
This course is recommended for health care professionals, especially psychologists, counselors, social workers, and nurses who seek knowledge about suicide risk assessment and prevention. It is appropriate for all levels of participants' knowledge.
Course Objectives:
Describe the current state of suicide risk assessment.
Explain the philosophy of the Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS), and explain how it differs from traditional methods of managing suicide risk.
Use the Suicide Status Form (SSF) to assess suicide risk, develop a suicide-specific treatment plan, clinically track and document ongoing suicide risk, and determine clinical outcomes once suicidality is resolved.
Describe a process for the early identification of suicide risk.
Discuss both conceptual aspects and concrete procedural steps pertaining to the CAMS approach to suicide risk assessment.
Describe the process for coauthoring, with the patient, a suicide-specific, time-limited treatment plan, using the CAMS approach.
Identify and clinically "track" a suicidal case over the course of clinical care, using the CAMS system.
Describe the range of suicide status tracking outcomes and how the CAMS approach can be brought to a sensible clinical close.
Describe steps clinicians can take to limit malpractice liablity.
Describe a variety of possible future developments related to CAMS both in terms of its application across various settings and in relation to empirical research.
Exam Questions
All exam questions for the course are visible on this page for members of CE-credit.com.
Membership is free, and you can sign up today! You'll only pay when you're ready to purchase a course, or if you take advantage of the Unlimited Package.
If you're already a member, please login to see the exam questions for this and all other courses.


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My college education has extended way beyond the walls of the classroom. I am not the traditional college student. I never lived on campus, I never ate a single meal in the dining hall, I did not dedicate myself 110% to the university. I know that sounds like I did not give it my all, but I did; I gave my everything because I am a mother, I work full time, and I go to school full time. Before I discovered the Interdisciplinary Studies program, I was lost. Just as lost as the characters on the t.v. show Lost. I was scared because my educational path needed to shift from nursing to something else and I only had a short window of opportunity to decide. Deciding what you want to do for the rest of your life is EXTREMELY scary. Planning out your life means a whole hell of a lot more when you have a child at home depending on you. I can honestly say, the Interdisciplinary Studies (IDS) program at Plymouth State University saved me. Robin DeRosa saved me.
I was three full years into my college career, wondering how I could graduate with a meaningful degree with only one year left. Was I disappointed that I would not graduate on time in the traditional four year, eight semester time frame? Of course, I was devastated. I felt like I had failed in so many ways, but IDS is truly the "one door closes, another door opens" situations for me. I had no idea how IDS worked, but I was told I would be able to create my own major. I would own my learning. WHAT? HOW? No idea, but it happened and I am not only proud of myself, but over the moon proud to be a part of the Interdisciplinary Studies family. I am not graduating "on time" and that is OK because I am graduating with a degree to be proud of.
I had no idea what to expect going into the Interdisciplinary course. I knew I was going to get to throw some of the courses I have taken together and call it my own major. While I was well aware that Interdisciplinary Studies meant combining disciplines to create a plan of studies that integrated multiple styles of learning to perform jobs "out of the ordinary", I was still wondering what I had gotten myself into. IDS is much more than creating a contract for my program and getting it approved by the school. The first day of class I was introduced to the idea of Open Pedagogy that was defined by three parts; access, learner-driven curriculum, and connected learning. Access to free sources and textbooks. AMAZING. Learner-driven curriculum; what we want and how we want it. Connected learning; connected through technology with the world, connected with our communities of learning and career interests, social media, and owning our own domain. After the first class I was completely sold on how amazing IDS is. To me, those three aspects are what Interdisciplinary Studies stands for because it allows students to explore, access non-traditional resources, and take responsibility for their eduction.
I have learned a multitude about being held responsible for my learning. I have always been responsible for my work, but IDS teaches students about being the leader of your learning. We are taught to be proud of our work and that is one of the biggest take aways from the program for me. Be you and be proud. To do so it took a lot of learning about the content and epistemology of my program. In order to expand my returns, I needed to expand my learning which meant creating a program based around content that would intertwine in a way that would promote unique and distinguished thinking. I combined courses from nursing, biology, psychology, health education, health promotion, and social work; all of which I could combine my learning in one way or another to connect to real world problems and solutions. The content of my program is so unique to me, it really gives my degree meaning to what I stand for and who I am. Epistemology is the theory of knowledge with regard to its methods, validity, and scope. This is the thoughts on why my program matters, what the goals are, the meaning, and what it is working towards. So often student's chose a major, take courses day in and day out, but have a hard time expressing what the goals of their projected work are. IDS allows me to express my personal goals, professionally. Taking responsibility for my learning because they are my goals.
Responsibility, responsibility, responsibility. Jeez Madison, could you say that word one more time?! Redundant, I know, stay with me here. Entering the world of "adulting" and responsibility is huge. I am already responsible for another human being which is extremely scary, but so rewarding. I know how to be responsible for my
daughter, but IDS taught me to be responsible for my learning and growth. This is one thing I am taking away from the program, but also something I will use to promote why IDS is so very important to universities. On the idea of expanding your learning to expand your returns, you are required to create a ePort (electronic portfolio-you're lookin' at it!), engage in twitter, and annotate in the online, FREE, textbook. We do not post our "homework" to a hidden, school controlled, website. We share our work for all of the world to see. Intimidating, but rewarding. This idea of owning your own domain, allows you to be confident in your work and take responsibility for what you are learning, how you make connections in the world, and how you share your knowledge. To me, this style of learning and sharing is a no brainer, good idea for interdisciplinary studies and all other majors. Academic settings need to work on sharing personal ideas, sharing each other's work, and being engaged in the world outside of classroom walls.
Just in the past week, the Interdisciplinary Studies program at PSU announced they opened a food pantry, will be working on a childcare and transportation cooperative, and veterans/military mentoring program. Round of
applause. Honestly, the fact that the interdisciplinary studies program thinks outside of the box on what Higher Ed. means, AMAZING. Interdisciplinary Studies is so important for universities and the world because IDS students and workers are out there, kicking ass and taking name on "wicked problems". IDS is always working on not only working outside the box, but creating new ideas of what a box really is and does. Interdisciplinary studies expands accessibility for Higher Ed. and accessibility of goals that don't meet the cookie cutter requirement course lists that many majors come with.
I wish I could say I had any idea what I am planning to do or where I see myself after I leave Plymouth State, but I don't. On the most basic level, my hopes for the future are to be a positive health role model for my daughter, other children, and anyone I work with. I do not know the logistics of where I want to work or exactly in what setting, but I know I want to do things in the realm of health education and promotion. There are endless possibilities in that field that would allow me to make a meaningful impact. Being responsible and meaningful are so important to me and my future work.
I was and still am a bit sad I am not graduating "on time", but I am ok. I am walking away from PSU with a degree that truly means more to me than anything because it is mine. ALL MINE. I am responsible for my learning, I am engaged in my learning, and I am proud of my degree. I am not graduating "on time" and that is OK.
#savethestudents 😉
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.


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Derailed: C February 15, 2006Posted by AkumAPRIME in : Movies , trackback
Every once in while you watch a movie that is not striking in any direction. Derailed was one of these. The acting was not award worthy and the characters were written to be critically stupid. The story was decent with a twist I didn't see until too late (though my friend saw it). The main character was written to be such a weakling, I couldn't identify with him. But of course the story line drives him to become billy bad ass towards the end, at which point you become less frustrated by his cowardice… Anyway, decent, but not amazing, or even that good.
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Seven Hopes and Prayers for Sovereign Grace Churches
Recently I've been meditating on a verse in 1 Samuel 12 for my life, and for our lives together in Sovereign Grace Churches. The context of 1 Samuel 12 is that Samuel, who describes himself as "old and gray" (1 Samuel 12:2b, ESV), is giving his farewell address to the nation of Israel. Near the end of his discourse, Samuel says this, "Only fear the Lord and serve him faith...Keep Reading


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Nintendo Challenge: Live at SDCC – Super Smash Bros. for Wii U – Bill vs. Scar
Melee It On Me.
Melee It On Me.
Drinking 'em Trinen tears like Greninja (used to) be doing on' Mewtwo.
Bill Trinen: "Ladies and gentlemen: Pikachu. Thank you very much."
Fail hat representative defeats Yacht Club Games' greatests as Shovel Knight creators attempts to cheat within the speed run.
Takamaru Ninja Castle.
The dude plays like a freaking cutscene.
I think they stopped right at the place where they were going to fight the Zelda doppelgänger.
With some Bayonetta 2 action. The witch does look pretty sexy as a Platinum reward. 😉
The full first-day stream is up and ready on Nintendo's Youtube channel! 🙂


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1012 Skyway Drive, Monroe
(704) 283-6411
We really enjoy all of our experieces at Brown Derby as do many of our frends. Jim, his family and their wait staff are all wonderful! We have our club meetings there and enjoy other meals with them through out each month. Keep up the good work!...
232 E Franklin St, Monroe
(704) 288-1766
This is the Blu Moon Cafe, this website has put up this posting without authorization from Blu Moon Cafe. Information and any coupons or gift certificates are not valid at Blu Moon Cafe. We apologize for this inconvenience and have tried numerous ...
The Blu Moon restaurant has good food, but to spend 20$ on a bowl of pasta is a little outrageous!!
2106 W Roosevelt , Monroe
(704) 226-1833
100 North Main St., Monroe
(704) 238-0044
Welcome to Mucci's Italian Bistro! We specialize in delicious and reasonablypriced cuisine, including our house specialties and other customerfavorites. Our cuisine entrees are served in a relaxed and welcoming settingthat you and your friends and fa...
608 W Roosevelt Blvd, Monroe
(704) 289-8157
When you dine at Sagebrush Steakhouse you will enjoy a menu that is full of variety and value. We are known for our savory steaks, slow cooked prime rib and award-winning ribs. Sagebrush also offers a variety of fresh seafood, chicken, garden fresh s...
2300-A W. Roosevelt Blvd, Monroe
(704) 283-5551