text:
Report: IRS scam sweeps nation
Halah Touryalai, a Forbes staff writer, got a call and a threat from what she thought was an Internal Revenue Service agent: You owe $5,000. Pay up now, or we'll arrest you.
She froze.
Story Continued Below
"For the next five or so minutes, I listened in absolute panic," Touryalai wrote in an op-ed describing the incident.
The largest-ever IRS tax scam is pulsing through the nation in the middle of tax season, an IRS watchdog investigating the matter said on Thursday. IRS impersonators are calling taxpayers, demanding hundreds and thousands of dollars in alleged unpaid taxes.
( PHOTOS: 10 slams on the IRS)
"This is the largest scam of its kind that we have ever seen," said J. Russell George, the Treasury's inspector general for tax administration. "Do not become a victim."
Touryalai's caller knew the last four digits of her Social Security number and where she worked. Accusing her of tax dodging, he warned that the government was about to seize her property, freeze her bank accounts, and suspend her driver's license and passport until she paid up.
He even threatened jail time and to "blacklist" her name.
( Sign up for POLITICO's Morning Tax tip sheet)
Eventually she caught on — the man was a phony, one of many who have cheated thousands of Americans in just about every state in recent weeks.
Not everyone was as lucky. The con men have duped people into paying at least $1 million, TIGTA says.
They've heard reports of at least 20,000 instances, a record number of contacts for any known IRS scam.
Reports of the scheme have popped up around the nation from Delaware to Washington state, throwing a wrench into tax filing season.
( Also on POLITICO: Full finance policy coverage)
"The scam, while ridiculous, has great potential to harm people," said Robert Kerr, senior director of government relations for the National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA).
TIGTA is working with with local law enforcement to root out the fraudsters and has also contacted phone providers and nontraditional Internet companies such as Skype — though TIGTA wouldn't say which companies specifically it is working with.
Investigators also wouldn't specify how many they believe are part of the sham, only that their "hunch is it's a script that's being shared by a close group."
Investigators are following the money trail but say it's premature to say where it's leading.
They said they haven't seen anything like this since the 2006 filing season when "phishing" websites snagged taxpayers searching for how to contact the IRS and pull their information.
"The telephone stuff has been off and on over the decade … but I can't remember the last time we had this type of volume or even close to it," a senior TIGTA official told reporters on a call Thursday.
The scheme is sophisticated: Impersonators not only have names and phone numbers, they also have the last four digits of the victims' Social Security numbers.
Scammers have also found a way to spoof caller-ID systems so that they readas though the IRS is calling, and they follow up with emails using official-looking IRS logos and language that can easily trick people.
They give fake names and even phony IRS badge numbers.
"It's working," the TIGTA official said of the scam. "For every day that goes by there's 100 or 200 more contacts."
In Washington state, Clark County Sheriff's Office Detective Jason Granneman has worked with a number of area residents contacted by the scam. He says the phony IRS agents tried to scare people there by saying they "know where you live," what kind of cars the victims drive and the color of their houses — probably from Google Earth, he speculated.


text:
One of the greatest challenges facing the college is related to creating and maintaining an academic community that reflects the diversity of our country. Inclusivity is based on valuing individuals from all diverse categories. The more we include all people from every perception of diversity, the more ideas we have from which to select and the greater the opportunity we have for innovation yielding a greater opportunity for our growth and success.
Innovation comes from ideas, and lots of them. Ideas come from people, all kinds of people. To this end, the more inclusive an organization is in welcoming people to share their ideas, the more ideas are available to select from to be innovative; and, the more innovative an organization the greater the chance for growth. Inclusivity spawns growth. It is as simple as that.
We have begun to focus our efforts to increase the number of women and minority students, faculty, administration, and staff in our college.
Enhancing Educational Experiences
When you look at the demographics of our students and faculty we have a very low percentage of women and minorities. We need to recognize the importance of educating students to live and work in an increasingly diverse society. Studies have shown that faculty diversity (especially race and gender) is linked to curricular change; the inclusion of issues of race, class, gender, and sexual orientation in the educational process; diversification of scholarship and pedagogical perspectives; and increased support for diverse students. Studies on cognitive development show critical thinking, problem-solving capacities, and cognitive complexity increase for all students exposed to diversity on campus and in the classroom. The presence of diverse students enhances the educational experiences of all students, leading to the broadening of perspectives, increased exposure to alternative viewpoints, and more complex discussions and analysis. There is also some evidence to suggest the link between campus diversity, particularly structural diversity, and increasing attractiveness of admissions, fundraising, career opportunities, and community relations. Diversity enhances the country's competitiveness by effectively developing and using the talents of all citizens. The positive effects of a vibrant, diverse academic community has wide-ranging positive effects, which is why we need to embrace diversity at all levels in the college and work together to increase the diversity of our faculty, staff, and students.
We can dramatically increase the diversity of our faculty and students by making a commitment where we all take a role. That commitment will start in the dean's office and become part of the culture of our college.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Overcome your free-motion fears and build confidence in your machine quilting. Wendy Butler Berns shows you easy techniques from start to finishing!
You've spent hours making your quilt top, choosing fabrics, creating a design, piecing and embellishing it. Now learn how to machine quilt it yourself! Wendy shares strategies that will help you succeed, from layering the quilt and choosing threads to finding inspiration for machine-quilting designs. Your confidence will grow as you move from simple free-motion motifs to intricate thread arrangements. In this 10-lesson class youll learn how to assemble, bind and quilt your handmade designs. Your free-motion quilting will evolve as you build your skills, first with pencil and paper, then with thread and your sewing machine. Along the way, Wendy shares dozens of troubleshooting tips you can use in any quilting project.
If you're not delighted with your Bluprint experience, we'll make it right or give you a full refund.


text:
"Of course I am the only elf in the village"
Sorry to take so long to respond but no one touched this for several days. You're on the right track Canus. Think of other synonyms than cross for the condition of acrimony. hope this doesn't give too much away but the one word you're looking for is a Sindarin name.
Btw Morthaur, that was a pretty creative guess and I can see how ya got there but not correct.
Last edited by Duathrandir; Nov 27 2012 at 06:28 PM.
I will admit that the following was due mostly to the hint about the Sindarin name.
"autocrat's" = "king's"
"acrimonious condition" = "bitter condition" = "defeat" = "foil"
Hence, "king's foil" ~ "kingsfoil" = athelas
Clever again, but alas, again incorrect. It's the name of a thing and it belonged to Thingol. I'm afraid I must have done something wrong cause y'all are too clever not to have gotten it yet.
p.s. A foil is a name for a type of the item which is the answer. See what I'm sayin'?
Last edited by Duathrandir; Dec 01 2012 at 12:17 AM.
Autocrat's = King's, Acrimonious Condition = Anger or Wrath. King's Wrath (2 words) = Aranruth (1 word) the Sindarin name of Thingol's prized sword; the only weapon in his armory that Turin could not choose.
As no one guessed correctly, I shall pose another, sry if this has been done I can't remember far enough back through the thread.
Founding Father's Thorn
Ah. It's been a while since I'd read The Children of Hurin. I would not have gotten that anytime soon. Good riddle, though.
"Founding Father" = Durin the Deathless was the first Dwarf created by Aule and founder of Khazad-dum.
"Thorn" = constant sore, as in "thorn in one's side" = "bane"
Thus "Founding Father's Thorn" = "Durin's Bane" = "Balrog"
Although the Durin for which this particular balrog was named was not the "Founding Father" Durin...
Ding ding ding! Give the man a cigar. Correct. The floor is your sir.
Why thank you, even if I don't smoke. [rim shot]
Another 3-2-1: ARBOREAL CHIN DIRT
Arboreal Chin Dirt, well arboreal of a tree or trees (pertaining to trees) and chin dirt, hmmm, I remember in my youth a friend's mother always asking her son's friends who wore facial hair hair why they don't wash their face, why they want that dirt on their chin and lip ("You sucha handsome boy, Why you no washa you face?"). So, Arboreal = tree, Chin Dirt = beard. Tree Beard (2 words) Fangorn (1 word) of course Treebeard as a name would work for 1 too.
Hmm. I thought that was a particularly easy one. You got it!
Yeah, that was easy. Let's see if this is a bit tougher.
Acquiring Reputation Diamonds
3-2-1 btw
Today is a good day for Pie.
Do not meddle in the affairs of Burglars, for they are subtle and quick to shank you.
Nope, sry Bam'. Pro'ly more hint than I should give this early, but think of "acquiring reputation" in gaming terms.
Last edited by Duathrandir; Dec 08 2012 at 02:33 AM.
sign for adventure
Well dbmorpher, we've already got a riddle working, but I'll give yours a shot. Sign for adventure; is it the secret mark Gandalf makes on Bilbo's door at Bag End?
Today is a good day for Pie.
Do not meddle in the affairs of Burglars, for they are subtle and quick to shank you.
Because it is made by Eru and valar in the song - therefore it is sacred too. It is sacred to its inhabitants, I think, and perhaps sacred can be used to describe the meaning of Arda to Yavanna, Ulmo and Oromë too. Demesne might refer to the fact Arda was placed under the leadership of Manwë - making Arda to be the lands of Manwë (and other valar) whose only superior ("the Crown", if Manwë is thought as a lord of a manor) is Eru.
"'Nonetheless they will have need of wood', said Aulë and he went on with his smith-work."
3 words in the original clue, you want to break that down to 2 words which in turn will lead you to the 1 word answer.
Too early for any more hint than that.
Btw, if I have explained 321 incorrectly someone help us out w/ a better explanation. Also I hope I did not come across as condescending as it was not my intention.
You're fairly close.
Last edited by Duathrandir; Dec 17 2012 at 01:22 PM. Reason: wrong word
Woe me, I had a feeling I was doing something wrong, yet I didn't realize what. Oh well, thanks for clarification.
Another try, because I think I have it this time:
Made sacred = sanctified, blessed?
Demesne = lands, realm
Blessed realm = Aman
Did I got the idea right?
"'Nonetheless they will have need of wood', said Aulë and he went on with his smith-work."
I believe this is 3-2-1, but I don't mind if you solve it another way if I'm still misunderstanding the concept.
Shrouded monarch's affection
EDIT: Highlighted the riddle, and realized that it might not be actually similar three-part riddle as was mentioned in the post next poster quoted. Hopefully it can be still solved.
Last edited by Dweorg; Dec 18 2012 at 11:59 AM. Reason: Highlight etc
"'Nonetheless they will have need of wood', said Aulë and he went on with his smith-work."
Today is a good day for Pie.
Do not meddle in the affairs of Burglars, for they are subtle and quick to shank you.
This form's session has expired. You need to reload the page.Reload


text: Main Content Act 219 of 2000 friendly link Printer Friendly bills affecting index and updates Search within this Statute for CHILDREN'S PRODUCT SAFETY ACTAct 219 of 2000AN ACT to prohibit the use of certain unsafe children's products; to prohibit child care facilities from using or having on the facility premises certain unsafe children's products; to prescribe powers and duties of certain departments, officers, and agencies; to provide for the promulgation of rules to carry out the provisions of this act; and to prescribe penalties for violation of the provisions of this act. History: 2000, Act 219, Imd. Eff. June 27, 2000 © 2017 Legislative Council, State of MichiganThe People of the State of Michigan enact: DocumentTypeDescription Section 722.1051SectionShort title. Section 722.1052SectionDefinitions. Section 722.1055SectionUnsafe children's product; placement in stream of commerce prohibited. Section 722.1056SectionUnsafe children's product; criteria; crib; retrofit; notice; compliance. Section 722.1060SectionList of unsafe children's products; maintenance; availability; providing list to inspectors of child care facility and persons providing child care. Section 722.1061SectionCommercial user; sale of recalled product; exception. Section 722.1065SectionChild care facility; prohibition; exception; notice; posting list; determination by operator of facility. Section 722.1070SectionRevocation or refusal to renew or issue facility license or registration. Section 722.1075SectionViolation by commercial user as misdemeanor; penalty. Section 722.1080SectionEnforcement action; jurisdiction. Section 722.1085SectionAdditional remedies.


text:
Field Station Record, Volumes 7-16
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (Australia). Division of Plant Industry
Division of Plant Industry, CSIRO., 1968 - Agriculture
From inside the book
18 pages matching meliloti in this book
Where's the rest of this book?
Results 1-3 of 18
What people are saying - Write a review
We haven't found any reviews in the usual places.
Common terms and phrases
acid Agric Anim applied Australia Bacchus Marsh bitter pit breakdown calcium nitrate Canberra crops CSIRO CSIRO Aust CSIRO Division cultivars Deniliquin depth differences Division of Plant effect estimates experiment feed fertilizer Fid Stn Rec FIELD STATION RECORD fruit grass grassland grazing growth harvest Hely herbage Hunter River incidence increased inoculation irrigation kg/ha Krawarree legumes liveweight lovegrass lucerne magnesium Manuscript received mean Medicago meliloti Merino method nitrogen nitrogen fixation nodulation nutrient pasture period phalaris Phalaris tuberosa phosphate phosphorus Plant Industry plots podzolic potassium rainfall reduced response rhizobia Rhizobium root samples sand season seed production seedlings selection sheep significant significantly sodium Southern Tablelands species sprays stocking rate strains subterranean clover sulphur summer superphosphate symbiotic Table temperature Themeda tiller treatments trifolii Trifolium subterraneum uptake water intakes waterlogging wheat winter yanninicum Yarloop


text:
Jenna Haze teasing his cock with her pretty bare feet!
Jenna Haze fondling that cock with her sexy little feet and toes!
Jenna Haze sucking on his cock as he sucks on her foot!
Jenna Haze getting her sexy little pussy spread!
Jenna Haze hopping on that cock and riding him reverse cowgirl style!
Jenna Haze getting fucked doggystyle in the shoe store!
Jenna Haze enjoying some standing 69 right there in the store!
Jenna Haze getting her sweet little pussy tongued!
Jenna Haze taking it in her tight asshole as he sucks on her toes!
Jenna Haze showing off her pretty feet as she gets fucked in the ass!
Jenna Haze getting her tight ass rammed nice and deep with his hard cock!
Jenna Haze getting her sweet little asshole stretched as he nails her from behind!
Jenna Haze taking his fresh hot cum on her tongue!
Download the full scene in 1080P HD at JULES JORDAN


text:
by Trevor Kuss, Sports Information Assistant
MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. – Georgia College women's cross country will kick off the season Saturday when they travel north to compete in the Fordham Fiasco in the Bronx, N.Y.
The Bobcats return almost every key runner from 2011, including the first ever All-Region runner for Georgia College Allison Lones (Kathleen, Ga.). She not only became the first All-Region runner in GC history, but also holds the first and second places in GC record for 6K races. Rebecca Shane (Lilburn, Ga.) returns as well, with three second place finishes in 2011, and putting up a scoring finish in all seven races for the Bobcats. Other key returning Bobcats are junior Ashton Passino (Alpharetta, Ga.), who finished with scoring times in six of seven races in 2011, and senior Victoria Dobson (New Hamburg, Ontario), who had five scoring finishes in 2011.
The lone runner not returning to the team that put up more than one scoring finish is Karissa Ekstrom, who put up a scoring finish in six of seven events her senior year coming in second for the Bobcats on the first and last races of the season.
The Bobcats added plenty of talent to the already experienced roster, with four freshmen joining the team. Rachel Pasko (Jefferson, Ga.), Taylor Roeck (Cumming, Ga.), Whitney Sweet (Roswell, Ga.) and Megan Wetterhall (Atlanta) will all compete with each other and the veteran Bobcats to put up scoring finishes.
Cross Country, picked seventh in the PBC Preseason Coaches Poll, will run in four events before the PBC Championships Oct. 20 in Montevallo, Ala.
The Georgia College Department of Athletics, two-time winners of the PBC Commissioner's Cup, sponsors 11 varsity athletic programs at the NCAA Division II level. As a Division II program, Bobcat Athletics prides itself on balancing the life of the student-athlete, evidenced by the teams' multiple appearances in post-season competition as well as documented academic success and community-service involvement. Sign up at www.twitter.com/BobcatSports and www.facebook.com/gcbobcats for up-to-the-minute reports, and visit www.GCBobcats.com for more information, and to nominate your favorite former Bobcats and Colonials to the GC Athletics Hall of Fame.


text:
Jonny Gomes Isn't Jackie Robinson Either
So... the Washington Nationals organization didn't exactly cover itself in glory tonight, did it? The big boys got whipped by Florida (of course), AAA Syracuse found itself on the wrong end of a perfect game, and Nats director of player development Doug Harris felt the need to compare Bryce Harper to Jackie Robinson for reasons passing understanding.
As it happens I was in Bowie tonight watching Harper and his Harrisburg Senators 'mates take on the Baysox, so I can personally attest to the lack of racial slurs and spitting that attended Bryce's four at-bats. Given that the Prince George's County Stadium crowd was roughly 40% Nationals partisans, Harper was received with a mix of applause and good-natured heckling. He wasn't persecuted for the sins of middle class white teenagers, and the microscope he's under is largely of his own construction. Baseball's top prospect responded to the unparalleled pressure by going 0-3 with a walk, made a few routine plays in left field and generally looked like an 18-year old in his first tour of AA.
While all this was going on the Nats sent erstwhile Harrisburg OF Bill Rhinehart and Hagerstown closer Chris Manno to the Cincinnati Reds for OF Jonny Gomes, kicking off the 2011 trade deadline in earnest. Now Gomes isn't much of a fielder, but he has the instant distinction of being the only Nats outfielder who can hit left-handed pitching at all. (Did you know that Jayson Werth has a .636 OPS versus lefties this season? True story!)
Jonny also projects as a Type B free agent and, as has been noted elsewhere, he could end up netting the Nats a supplemental 1st round draft pick in 2o12. In essence, the Nats traded Rhinehart and Manno for a draft pick, and so we wouldn't have to see Laynce Nix and Rick Ankiel attempt to hit left-handed pitching any more. There's also a non-zero chance that Gomes' arrival spells the end of the Matt Stairs experiment. All in all, hard to be too upset about that.


text:
The Houston Dynamo continue group play in the CONCACAF Champions League with an important home game against group leader Árabe Unido on Tuesday at BBVA Compass Stadium. After one of four group stage games, Árabe Unido currently leads Group 1 with 3 points after a 3-1 home win over W Connection. The Dynamo and W Connection are tied for second place in Group 1 with one point each after the clubs drew 0-0 last Tuesday in Trinidad and Tobago.
Broadcast Info
TV: FOX Sports 2
Starting Lineups
Dynamo: Hall; Chabala, Brunner, Boswell, Ashe; Creavalle, Moffat, Lopez, Dixon; Johnson, Weaver
Subs: Marscheider, Garcia, Ching, Arena, Bruin, Davis, Sarkodie
Árabe Unido: Lloyd; Caesar, Cummings, Gondola, Niño; Gonzalez, Daniels, Velez, Macea; Arroyo, Ward
Subs: Andreve, Paul, Patrick, Rodriguez, Small, Florez, Barcenas
Get up-to-the minute stats throughout the match


text:
There has been much speculation & confusion regarding the significant amounts of debt that Starhub now carries on its balance sheets. As of September 2010, Starhub possessed an astounding financial leverage ratio of 33.8. This means that for every dollar in equity, the firm had $33.8 in assets (anything above 4 or 5 is a potential red flag.)
So what's going on here?
Bank loans made up 0.9 billion dollars in 2009! Let us take a closer look at the footnotes.
Even in a world awash with cheap money, I found the interest rate that Starhub was borrowing at to be extremely low. In 2009, their floating rate loans bore i/r of only 1.24% to 2.13%. This already low interest rate was reduced further in 2009 to only 0.92% to 1.39%. In opinion, it makes perfect sense for Management to leverage on the historically low rates to fund their capital expenditures.
Healthy Cash Flow Levels in Starhub:
Starhub is one of the few companies that use Free Cash Flow figures in their annual reports (a plus point for me) and for good reason. Even in the wake of the financial recession, they have posted impressive results. I do not foresee a problem with loan repayments at this current point of time.
The Bear Case:
Starhub paid $20 Million in interest from bank loans last year (taken from the Cash Flow Statement of 2009's Annual Report). Assuming that interest rates suddenly quadruple (highly unlikely in the near future but let's take the worst case scenario here) to 5.6%, Starhub would have to fork out $80 Million in interest payments. A sizeable increase of $60 Million – but still within tolerable limits. I envision that as long as interest rates remain at their current levels, Starhub will have no qualms about maintaining the status quo.
I want to bring your attention to another point – Refinancing. Judging from their cash flow statements, I suspect that Starhub is refinancing significant portions of their debt as the maturity date loans. This is akin to what REITs do when their debt is about to expire. In other words, they will be able to extend their loan maturity dates as long as they remain credit worthy.
I came across a post in another blog stating that Starhub was not making enough in FCF to cover their monthly 5.0cents dividend payment. The more risk adverse among you (it could be just me though..) might be wondering why Starhub doesn't reduce its dividend payment in order to give itself a greater buffer or margin of safety. The argument is that once a company has started paying a regular dividend (in this case Starhub has committed itself to 5.0cents a quarter), the market will expect it continue the cycle at regular intervals forever. Any disruption to this cycle will be perceived as a potential sign of financial difficulties and a loss of confidence.
In my opinion, debt levels while significant, should not pose much problem for Starhub. Close monitoring of their financial performance in their years to come is in order however. I feel that management has delivered solid returns up till this point of time and I see no reason why they wont in the years to come.
Tell-Tale Signs That Investors Should Look Out For in Reconsidering Their Investment in Starhub:
- Significant drops in Free Cash Flow over a sustained period (i.e. 1 – 3 years)
- Starhub being forced to raise additional amounts of money (i.e. through bond issues) AND refusing to cut its dividend yield
- Starhub taking on even more debt despite a significant rise in interest rates.
When faced with special situations such as these, its always good to dig deeper into the financial statements. Always make sure you understand the debt structure of the company. If its too complex, skip it. There are plenty of other companies that are much easier to understand.
Disclaimer: The author is vested in Starhub.


text:
Candles are the easiest way to add some romance to any dinner. But if you're spending Valentine's Day with someone who's particularly geeky, they'll certainly appreciate this Wood Shop Candlestick dock which relies on your iPhone for the flickering flame.
Besides being a safer alternative to a real flame, this fake candlestick holder also serves to charge your iPhone while it's perched on top. There's no indication that the candle flame app is included with the candlestick, though. But not to worry, while you might not be able to afford roses after ordering one, there are plenty or free faux flame apps already available. [Haus Interior via Fancy]


text:
I think you should, indeed.
Good luck to you too!
The progression has been enjoyable, and the final result shows all of your hard work.... Well done and good luck!Cheers Jason
You have made a ton of progress from that first image. A lot to be proud of! This is honestly one of the best waterfalls I've seen in TG. Good luck in the contest. - Oshyan


text:
Saw Dil (1990) last night, starring Aamir Khan, Madhuri Dixit, Anupam Kher, Saeed Jaffry, and others, directed by Indra Kumar, and with music by Anand-Milind. Ms. Dixit became a household name a couple of years prior to this, with the song Ek Do Teen in Tezaab (1988) taking over every music chart in India that mattered. But her fine performance in Dil (for which she won her first Filmfare Best Actress award), coupled with fine performances by everyone in the film, made this one for the ages. It also meant Madhuri has since 1990 been in my dil (for what it's worth), atop my list of favorite actresses.
1. Hazari Prasad (Anupam Kher) used to worship money. Quite literally. All he wanted was to marry his son to a wealthy man's daughter. And he was miserly to the extent that he did justice to the popular term that is often used to describe the miserly, kanjoos makkhi choos (the term is associated with exactly this kind of behavior, to refer to a person so miserly that he/she would consume a beverage despite a fly having fallen in it).
2. Hazari Prasad's son Raja (Aamir Khan) was a 'decent' player, if that makes sense.
Loved his thought process when approaching women...so harmless (here is more background on the Rakhi). If this were filmed in the U.S., there would be an approach with the term 'sister' holding more significance to the haseenas in sororities ;)
3. Raja threw a birthday party at his home. The home resembled a discotheque (Raja really made the discotheque his own, as noted in point two in my review of Love Love Love (1989), remember?). This was also where parts of the song Papa Kehte Hain from Qayaamat Se Qayaamat Tak (1988) played, followed by some Billboard hits.
The expenses associated with the party were not appreciated by Raja's father, of course. This frame makes it for Raja was whistling the Ek Do Teen tune (noted above), which served as a perfect introduction to Madhuri Dixit.
4. Madhu (Madhuri Dixit) was a new student at the college. She was beautiful but vain. And she never quite got along with Raja.
Raja would get the better of her every once in a while, but she would always rebound with a stronger response. The film spent close to 45 minutes developing their animosity, and this turned out to be one of its biggest strengths. Raja played blind to get attention...
...got some help from his Dev Anand look-alike friend...
...but Madhu was aggressive in her responses (oh dear)...
...and even posted a challenge to a fighting champion of the college on behalf of Raja.
She really wanted to see him get knocked out...
...but Raja surprised her and himself en route to showing up to the fight and winning. There was an important backdrop to this that was one of the more memorable moments in the film.
Following a dance sequence (Madhu practicing to the ever-popular Oye Oye from Tridev (1989)) in which Madhuri looked better than she did at any point in Dil To Pagal Hai (1997), this bit of dialogue led to a song.
This is partly why I liked the pairing of Aamir and Madhuri. Their expressions so effortlessly lit up the screen. They really were fantastic together.
5. In the mean time, Mr. Prasad convinced Mr. Mehra (Madhu's father) -- a very wealthy businessman -- that he was as successful a businessperson. The amount of time spent on developing their friendship was about right. Of course, Raj and Madhu didn't want any part of this, because they hated each other.
6. But things changed when they went camping to Ooty, singing the classic Bombay Se Aaya Mera Dost aboard the college bus. This was when things got slightly out of hand. Raja changed the signs outside the restrooms, and Madhu responded by crying rape the same night, an act that got Raja expelled. Well, almost. A rather well-executed sequence followed, in which Raja said something to Madhu that made her really like him (no, it did not have anything to do with love).
She withdrew her charge, but Raja ignored her until she came forth at a cocktail with this (loved the initiative!):
Following which this song formalized their love (vocals by Anuradha Paudwal and Udit Narayan):
This bit really reminded me of Aamir as DJ in Rang De Basanti (2006), with the red bike and all.
7. So Raja and Madhu were about to get engaged at a formal event for the purpose, which was when Mr. Mehra discovered Mr. Prasad had lied to him about his businesses and status. The engagement was called off, but Raja and Madhu were not about to deny themselves of their love.
8. Madhu's father got Raja arrested, so she committed a crime to get imprisoned and be with Raja.
If you are a fan of tight slaps to the face, there is plenty to appreciate in Dil. I counted at least six, not one out of place. There was an inspector named Ghalib, who true to his name, loved poetry and supported Raja and Madhu. Then there was a lovely song from behind bars.
9. One of the more dramatic wedding ceremonies ever witnessed in Indian cinema (see background of picture for a hint)...
...led to Raja and Madhu being disowned by their families. The song Hum Ne Ghar Choda Hai, with vocals by Udit Narayan and Sadhana Sargam followed:
10. Did I mention Madhu and Raja were absolutely in love, and that they looked very very much in place opposite each other? Five stars for amazing chemistry.
11. Honorable mention to the city of Bombay (as always). If you have driven by a stretch of roadway I have mentioned often, you know where this is...
...and I visited this place with my mom (Kala Niketan the saree store about a five-minute drive from our Bombay home) so frequently as a child, it's not even funny. I always gave in to the slightest of value propositions. For Colaba, the bribe was Rhythm House (see point 9 in my review of Taxi Driver (1954)). For here, the saving grace was a Dollops ice-cream (noted in this post) store next door...
12. Madhu, we love you too! Such grace. No wonder she's been emblematic of the grace and elegance that is expected of the Bhaartiya naari (Indian woman) in real life for so very long. Stunning.
13. For fear of revealing too much, here is just a song from that point through the climax (discussed below). Beautifully done all-round, O Priya Priya has vocals by Anuradha Paudwal and Suresh Wadkar.
14. In point five of my initial review of Jaane Tu, I had said that several portions in the film reminded me of sequences in some Aamir Khan films. This was perhaps the most obvious. Yes, Dil contained an airport climax too. What's more, the distance traveled and the time constraints in Jaane Tu were about the same as in Dil. Raja -- at least he rode a bike and not a horse -- was seen going from Nariman Point (part of Queen's Necklace, and the answer to the stall location in point 11 above)...
...(where a cop alerted his colleagues)...
...to a dash at the airport. See a resemblance?
Did Raja's shamelessly greedy father succeed in destroying their love? Did Madhu's father convince her to marry a longtime family friend's son? What was Madhu doing in the arms of another man when Raja went to visit her? Why did Raja agree to marry another woman? For answers to these questions and more, watch Dil. You shall not be disappointed.
At its core, Dil is a masala film that elevates the romance of two college-going lovers to a rivalry of two families. The approach to this plot, excellent performances throughout, and a remarkably well-integrated soundtrack (from the opening credits onward), made this an excellent film! This one is not only right up there with Dil Hai Ke Maanta Nahin (1991) and Raja Hindustani (1995) as one of Aamir's best romantic films after his debut, it is my favorite from the lot.
Movie Rating: 4.25/5 (excellent!)
My classification: PG
Music Rating: 4/5 (excellent!)
On a personal note:
Recall seeing this in June of 1990, amid the excitement that accompanied the World Cup of soccer that month.
And I do wish Madhuri and Aamir would do more films together (they did one more together, Deewana Mujh Sa Nahin). I really liked this pairing as good as (if not better than) Aamir and Juhi, which is saying a lot. Dil was significant to their careers as well. Madhuri earned her first Filmfare Best Actress award for her performance (as noted above), and Aamir his first big hit after Qayaamat Se Qayaamat Tak.


text:
This sample pack from Wide range elecric features amazing 1643 female vocals in one download.
5 female singers are bringing you loops, spoken phrases and sentences, single words and snippets, whispers and adlibs for your next production.
You will get 1643 female vocals in 24 bit Wav format and 100% royalty free. Most of the samples have bpm and key for ease of use.
- 1.5 Gb Complete Pack Content.
- 24 bits / 44.1khz
- PC/MAC Compatible (Logic, Cubase, Live, Reason, SonyAcid, Fruity loops, GarageBand, etc...)
- Wav
All of the content is 100% royalty-free. Once purchased, you can use these audio loops in your music releases, both commercial and underground, with no restrictions.
How to Order:
Simply click "Add to Cart" BUY COMPLETE. When you finish your order, click "checkout". If you are a new costumer you need create an account, if you are a returning costumer only fill up the form. Your Download Link will be sent in you account in Loophunter immediately after your payment has been received.
For any problem send a email email@example.com
*Note: The previews are low resolution MP3s. The quality of the files you will receive will of course be much higher, uncompressed WAV-AIFF, stereo, 44k, 16-24 bit.
Producer: Wide Range Electric
Additional Previews:


text:
New Publication | Available Now
Display is a curated collection of important modern, mid 20th century graphic design books, periodicals and ephemera. The collection is a source of original items for educational, historical and scholarly analysis.
View Collection Groups
Items in the Collection are grouped with specific attributes such as designer, time period, type and country. Viewing the Collection in groups brings similarities and differences into focus and provides a more in-depth look. Full page of keywords coming soon.
Writings on influential designers, graphic design history, noteworthy current events and expanded information on items from the Collection.
12 March 2019
11 October 2015
22 November 2013
Important, carefully selected and rare graphic design books, periodicals and ephemera for sale.
A current selection of historical graphic design, art and photography exhibitions from around the world.
June 22 – August 7, 2016
April 22 – September 25, 2016
March 12 – September 11, 2016


text: Research and Teaching The Department of Eye Pathology collaborates with other ophthalmology services to perform multidisciplinary research. Slides and tissue may be obtained for research after Mass. Eye and Ear Internal Review Board approval. Useful Links American Academy of Ophthalmology Armed Forces Institute of Pathology Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology Digital Journal of Ophthalmology Medline / PubMed Education Slide read-out with an attending pathologist occurs Monday through Friday at 2:00pm at the David G. Cogan Laboratory of Ophthalmic Pathology in suite 328 at Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston campus. Pathology Rounds occur on the third Tuesday of every month from 6:00 to 7:30pm in the Sloane Teaching Room on the third floor of the hospital. Cases are presented by fellows and residents from Mass. Eye and Ear and attended by residents from Harvard Medical School/Mass. Eye and Ear, Boston University and Children's Hospital, Boston. Cases serve as a platform for further in-depth teaching in pathology. A selection of teaching slides is available. Guest speakers from around the nation are invited four times a year from 6:00 to 8:00pm in the Meltzer Auditorium on the third floor of hospital to speak on comprehensive topics in ophthalmic pathology as part of the Boston Ophthalmic Pathology Lecture Series, sponsored by the Harvard Medical School and Boston University Departments of Ophthalmology. Make An Appointment Today! 617-573-3202


text:
Don't see your question? Visit our help section.
Get access to great in-store deals and local pick-up
Sign up for our email deals newsletter!
Take your work out to Brazil, Hawaii and beyond in this vibrant fitness journey packed with exotic rhythms and rich culture from around the world. Expand your horizons with 40+ high-energy routines and over 30 calorie-burning dance styles that will transform your at home work out into a global fitness-party!
Pro Price


text:
Opinions on two gay marriage cases are expected to be announced by the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday, the final day of the justices current term.
Chief Justice John Roberts said this morning that the final opinions of the term will be announced at 7 a.m. Wednesday (Pacific Standard Time).
There are three cases left to be decided by the high court. They include Hollingsworth v. Perry, California's Proposition 8 case, as well as United States v. Windsor, which involves the Defense of Marriage Act.
Proposition 8 is the California referendum that bans gay marriage.
The Defense of Marriage Act blocks recognition of gay marriage and thus makes couples unable to receive federal benefits.
There is an small chance that the justices will not render a decision on either of the gay marriage cases on Wednesday.
Sekhar v. United States is the other case that justices are expected to weigh in on on Wednesday.


text:
The joining of ESAB and Victor Technologies brings together more than two centuries of welding and cutting experience. Now all the welding and cutting solutions you need are available from one company - ESAB.
|Gas Equipment
|Manual Plasma Cutting
|Arc Welding Equipment
|Hardfacing & Alloys
|Arc Gouging & Cutting
|Brazing & Soldering
|Automated Plasma Cutting
|Welding Equipment


text:
Upper-arm-lift procedures in the U.S. have increased from 338 in 2000 to nearly 15,500 in 2012, a survey from The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported today.
Most of the surgeries are familiar ones: There were 1.6 million face-lifts, liposuctions and rhinoplasties in the U.S. in 2012. Even more common were minimally invasive procedures like Botox, accounting for 13 million operations. Breast augmentation was, for the seventh year in a row, the most popular form of cosmetic surgery.
Americans spent $11 million on cosmetic procedures in 2012.
But the upper-arm lift, called a brachioplasty, went up 4,378 percent since 2000 -- and poll data says first lady Michelle Obama may be partly responsible.
Women "are paying closer to the arms of female celebrities," according to the survey. And the first lady's are some of the most enviable. Other contenders, as listed by the Los Angeles Times, were the arms of Jennifer Aniston, Demi Moore and Kelly Ripa.
The procedure involves an incision, usually on the inside of the arm, from shoulder to elbow. It removes excess skin and uses liposuction to achieve a slimmer upper arm.
Dr. David Reath, chair of the ASPS Public Education Committee, cautioned women looking into the procedure, as brachioplasties often leave visible scars.


text:
Future Joy
When writing to Christians in the city of Thessalonica, the Apostle Paul instructs them, "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you" (1 Thess. 5:16–18 …Read More
Fear and the Sovereignty of God
"God is in control." These words can be a wonderful comfort to people struggling with common phobias, natural fears, or even deep-seated terrors. The reminder that God is in control often brings great relief. But there are times when the …Read More
Revelation for All Time
The book of Revelation is the last book in the Bible and completes the New Testament canon. It is Jesus Christ's final word to His church. This easily overlooked fact suggests that Revelation is one of the most practical and …Read More
Sovereign Restoration
In one of the least known books of the Bible, Zephaniah, we find one of the most amazing prophecies. Writing during the reign of King Josiah (640–609 BC), Zephaniah speaks of the coming day of the Lord (Zeph. 1:7 …Read More
Seeing God Face to Face
I suppose that if you were to ask Christians whether or not they would like to "see" God, most would say "yes." Human curiosity often wins out over our knowledge of biblical passages such as Hebrews 12:29, which …Read More
Christ Our Church
There are a number of Old Testament passages that figure prominently in the New Testament. In Galatians 3:10–14, several of them are quoted by the apostle, and he uses these Old Testament passages as proof texts for the doctrine …Read More
Joseph's Faith in Death
A key figure in the closing chapters of the book of Genesis, Joseph is known for several things: his "coat of many colors," being sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, and his remarkable ability to interpret the dreams …Read More
Source of True Teaching
Q. What rule hath God given to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him? A. The Word of God, which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, is the only rule to direct …Read More
Open and Shut
Q. What is the Office of the Keys? A. The preaching of the Holy Gospel and Christian discipline; by these two the kingdom of heaven is opened to believers and shut against unbelievers. (Heidelberg Catechism, Q&A 83) Church …Read More
Marching Orders
Q. What are the outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of redemption? A. The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of redemption are, his ordinances, especially the Word, sacraments, and …Read More
Our Only Mediator
Q. But who now is that Mediator, who in one person is true God and also a true and righteous man? A. Our Lord Jesus Christ, who is freely given unto us for complete redemption and righteousness. (Heidelberg Catechism …Read More
The Cause and the Effect
Q. What is sanctification? A. Sanctification is the work of God's free grace, whereby we are renewed in the whole man after the image of God, and are enabled more and more to die unto sin, and live unto righteousness …Read More
Adopted Sons and Daughters
Q. Why did Christ command us to address God thus: "Our Father?" A. To awaken in us at the very beginning of our prayer that childlike reverence for and trust in God, which are to be the ground of …Read More
Basking in the Benefits
Q. What are the benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from justification, adoption, and sanctification? A. The benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from justification, adoption, and sanctification, are, assurance of God's love …Read More
Protestants and Creeds
Q. What is then necessary for a Christian to believe? A. All that is promised us in the gospel, which the articles of our catholic, undoubted Christian faith teach us in sum. (Heidelberg Catechism, Q&A 22) I'll never …Read More
Kim Riddlebarger
Dr. Kim Riddlebarger is senior pastor of Christ Reformed Church in Anaheim, Calif. He is cohost of The White Horse Inn and author of The Lion of Princeton: B.B. Warfield as Apologist and Theologian.


text:
NO! To the Snow
Natasha Hudson
07 Feb, 2018
Helping Keep Dogs in Their Homes
Organization of Support for
Canine Achievement & Recovery, Inc.
Types of Behavior in Dogs
When your dog demonstrates behaviors that are considered bad or undesirable, it is easy to place a label on them that may not actually be appropriate. Dogs behavior is a reflection of many things – upbringing, socialization, environment, and life stage – much like humans! However, because we cannot sit a dog on a couch and pick their brain about their feelings, we are left with watching them and recruiting the assistance of a certified Animal Behaviorist. If your dog is acting "aggressive" or
How to Find High Quality Pet Care
One of the common reasons pet owners may choose not to go on extended vacations, or even take jobs that require frequent travel, is that they are worried about being away from their pet for too long. Pet owners are often nervous about their furry friends getting fed at the wrong times or getting administered the incorrect dosage of their medication. Some pets may pine for their owners or act out in various ways if they are separated for a long time. While it's good to be concerned about your
Depression in Dogs
The benefits that a dog can bring to a human in terms of depression are well known – dogs can help alleviate and mitigate the symptoms of depression. They lower blood pressure, promote touch, provide a much needed distraction and their ability to alter our behavior is obvious to any pet owner. Can dogs experience depression? Obviously, we cannot get them a therapists couch and tell us how they feel but their behavior will tell us a lot if we pay attention. Some dogs are excited and enthusiastic


text:
Medlen carries Braves over Dodgers
Los Angeles, CA – Kris Medlen tossed 6 2/3 shutout innings and also homered to lead the Atlanta Braves to a 2-1 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers on Saturday.
Medlen (3-6) allowed five hits and one walk while striking out six to win his second straight start.
Dan Uggla also homered for the Braves, who dropped the first two games of this four-game set at Dodger Stadium.
Craig Kimbrel stranded a runner at second in the ninth inning to earn his 18th save of the season.
Hanley Ramirez drove in the lone run for Los Angeles with a pinch-hit single in the eighth inning. Yasiel Puig added a pair of hits and Skip Schumaker went 3-for-4 in the setback.
Stephen Fife (1-1) gave up both homers among the nine hits he surrendered over 6 2/3 innings. He struck out seven and walked one to absorb his first loss of the season.
Uggla and Medlen both homered in the fifth inning to give the Braves a 2-0 edge.
The Dodgers finally broke through in the eighth inning. Nick Punto grounded into what appeared to be a tailor-made double play, but Andrelton Simmons' throw was off target and bounced into the stands allowing Punto to take second base. Adrian Gonzalez followed with a groundout that moved Punto to third before Ramirez ripped a pinch-hit single up the middle to make it 2-1.
Los Angeles looked poised to tie the game in the ninth inning. Schumaker, who scored the game-winning run Friday, led off with a base hit to right field. After a wild pitch allowed Schumaker to move to second, pinch-hitter Ramon Hernandez grounded out.
Mark Ellis, who entered the game 0-for-3 with two strikeouts against Kimbrel, worked a a full count, but chased a 97 mph fastball out of the zone to end the game.
Game Notes
Medlen's homer in the fifth was the first of his career ... Atlanta was 0- for-8 with runners in scoring position ... Schumaker extended his hitting streak to 14 games ... A total of 63 of Fife's 86 pitches were strikes.


text:
"Effective Use of 60% Government Spending"
Is what the UK's Office of Government Centre (OGC) aims to do.
However, the jury's still out on its own £14,000 spending for the new OGC logo.
The logo appears harmless at first glance. However, when rotated ninety degrees clockwise, it--and I quote--"has generated howls of mirth."
According to the article, a spokesman for OGC said: "...it is not inappropriate to an organisation that's looking to have a firm grip on Government spend."
Thanks to Eko.


text:
In the early 20th Century the temperance movement was in high gear. Slowly, county after county then state after state passed laws prohibiting the manufacture, distribution and consumption of alcohol within their borders. The excuse of the temperance movement was that alcohol was evil and a threat to the public health and those claims were eventually ramrodded down the throats of the whole of the American people in the form of the 18th Amendment. Even in those days, those that would become the modern liberals of today were trying to mold society to their whims.
What they did was take something that most people enjoyed and consumed responsibly and focused on the deadbeats who would also get drunk, urinate in public, beat their wives, vandalize property and paint with a broad brush everyone that consumed alcohol. They then branded alcohol as "evil" and "wicked" and eventually won enough support for their own little crusade against liberty. Instead of punishing those that were committing crimes, which is what limited and just government is supposed to do, they punished everyone and shackled Lady Liberty.
We also know how well that worked out in the end don't we?
Sure we do. Thousands of people were out of work as breweries were shut down and the industries that supplied those breweries lost demand for their products. Backwoods distilleries popped up. Some of these illegal stills cut their alcohol with substances not fit for human consumption. Moonshine was being run by bootleggers all over the country. And even many of federal agents charged with breaking up the now illegal distilleries were involved in making illegal liquor because they could make more calling off sick for a couple days and concocting illegal brew than they could working for the government in a month.
Yeah, prohibition worked great didn't it? Ah yes the great and powerful government sure saved us from our liberties didn't they? Can you just hear the sarcasm oozing from my voice?
So what did we get for all this trouble? Not much except the eventual repeal of this absolutely silly attempt at controlling human behavior and liberty with yet another amendment. We again returned to a state where liberty, on this issue, reigned and we focused again on people that abused the liberty of others.
So you would think that we wouldn't try it again. You would think that we would have learned our lesson. But liberals don't think. That's the problem. Their rearview mirror is broken and they can't see history to learn from it.
Today there is a new bogeyman; a new "temperance movement". The latest cause celeb of the left in their pursuit of infringing liberty is of course none other than smoking. And make no mistake those that are driving us down this latest road to ruin are no friends to liberty.
Recently, for example, the county of Allegheny where my home city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is located, tried to join the growing list of places around the country that have banned smoking everywhere they could get away with it. Note that I didn't say they tried to ban tobacco or cigarettes. They wouldn't do that. Oh no, they just wanted to ban smoking such products in restaurants and bars, which they refer to as places of "public accommodation". Places of "public accommodation", just so you know, is code for private property government and nebby do-gooders want to regulate and need some auspices to do so.
What they really tried to do was tell private citizens who own private businesses that they could not allow their employees or their patrons to smoke in their establishments. Mind you this was after many of them had invested thousands, if not tens of thousands, of their own dollars in special ventilation and air conditioning systems to keep smokers and non-smokers separate from each other.
Now, maybe you are a liberal. And maybe you feel that is a good idea and that government should do this. If that is the case, I weep for you.
The smoking ban and the assault on private property was touted by those that promoted it much in the same way the prohibition movement was way back when alcohol was the boogeyman. It was deemed as necessary because smoking is dangerous and harmful to one's health and as a result also to society. You know, since we now have a largely public healthcare system funded by tax payer dollars which in and of itself is unkind to personal liberty. Some of them even trotted out the old canard that smoking "causes" cancer despite the truth that it only increases the risk of getting cancer.
This is much like saying that depressing the gas pedal of a car makes it go forward. No, it doesn't. It only increases the chance of that happening. There are many other things that also have to be true in order for the car to go forward such as there being gas in the tank, the ignition being turned on, the car in the proper forward gear, and many, many other things.
Like the gas pedal of a car, if smoking, or even second hand smoke for that matter, "caused" cancer or any other disease then everyone that smoked or was exposed to smoke would have that disease. But we know that is not true. So we are back to the fact that smoking simply "increases" the risk of getting cancer.
Well la dee freaking dah! If that's all it takes to ban something I've got a whole list of such things that need to be banned based on the fact that they "increase" the risks of people being harmed. These things range from driving which increases people's risk of being in a fatal car accident, to swimming which dramatically increases the chance of one drowning, to sky diving which greatly increases the risk of people getting messily splattered all over the concrete. Should we ban these activities in public as well?
Then there are others who said that the ban would be a good thing because they did not like going to their favorite restaurant or bar and having to put up with smokers, which they claimed, put them at risk. To which I asked the question, "Why just simply not go there?" Then I asked what gave them the right to tell Joe's Bar on the corner that he could not let his patrons have a cigarette on property he bought and paid for. I still, to this day, have not received a reasoned answer that did not involve someone believing that they have the right to pursue their happiness (i.e. eating at a particular restaurant) at the expense of someone else's liberty (i.e. their private property rights).
Then of course there were the cries about "the children". Aw. We all got teary eyed at that one. Even me as I opened up my humidor, picked out a nice cigar and lit up. Taking a long puff, allowing the fine smoke to tickle my pallet I recalled far more hazardous things that happen to children.
Just last week for example we had an example where two women here in Pittsburgh left their young children locked in a bed room while they went out to the local bar. Five of these children are now dead because they decided to play with matches and were not being supervised when they burned down the house.
Yes, I'd say there are certainly more harmful things to children than my occasional cigar. Neglectful parents more worried about their own pleasure than their children's welfare comes to mind. And of course the excuses for these women have already started as to why they should not be at the very least partially accountable.
I think that is where the whole desire to regulate the behavior of others comes from; people not wanting to be held accountable for their own actions. Or maybe it isn't not wanting to be held accountable but simply being unable to control themselves. Either way there are many people that are eager to seize upon these types of attitudes and enslave those that cannot or will not be accountable for their own choices while punishing the rest of us as well.
The good news is the county smoking ban here went down in flames. This of course lead to lots of hand wringing and whining by those that really wanted it. I am certain that these are the same people that need government to tell them how many gallons of water are in their toilet and also, most likely, how to properly wipe their posteriors after using it.
Those that seek to control others really wanted the ban because the second they would have been able to ban smoking, again but not ban tobacco, cigarettes, etc., in restaurants and bars it would have been a stepping stone to banning smoking everywhere including in private residences "for the common good". If you think otherwise you haven't been paying attention.
But despite the crash and burn of the Allegheny County smoking ban the Commonwealth is pondering a state wide smoking ban for much the same reasons as the county ban was proposed. Again, they are not going to ban cigarettes and other tobacco products which they decry as bad, evil and a pox on our society mind you. They just want to tell us how to use our private property and that we cannot use it to partake of perfectly legal indulgences such as smoking.
And maybe when all is said and done we here in Pennsylvania will give up our liberties just as the people in New Hampshire did when they recently passed a similar statewide ban. Apparently that State's motto has now been changed from "Live Free Or Die" to "Freedom? We Don't Need No Stinkin' Freedom!"


text:
II. History of Gambling in the United States
Examining the history of gambling in North America suggests important conclusions that are useful today in considering policies related to gambling.
Societal standards and laws related to gambling have tended to change back and forth from prohibition to regulation. These changes in law have led one noted observer, Professor I. Nelson Rose, to describe three waves of gambling regulation during the history of the colonies and the United States.1 The first wave began during the colonial period and lasted until the mid-1800s. The second wave commenced at the close of the Civil War and lasted until the early 20th century. The last wave started during the Great Depression and is still going strong. Because of the length and size of this last wave, another observer has characterized it as an explosion, not a wave.2
The First Wave: 1600's to mid 1800's
The early colonies had very different attitudes towards gambling. Historians have classified the early settlers into two groups, the English who brought along the English traditions and beliefs, and the Puritans. Although the Puritans came from England, they came to the new world to create a better society and discard the values of their mother country. To them, the new world represented an opportunity for establishing a society grounded on Puritan values and beliefs.
Entire colonies were established along the guidelines and beliefs of one group or another. In particular, different attitudes towards gambling were enforced. In New England and Pennsylvania, Puritan attitudes toward gaming and play were adopted. The Puritan-led Massachusetts Bay Colony outlawed not only the possession of cards, dice, and gaming tables (even in private homes), but also dancing and singing. This stance was relaxed slightly the following year so as to allow gaming as long as it was for innocent and moderate recreation and not as a trade or calling. This hostility towards the professional gambler is a common theme that will be seen again as we look at the history of U.S. gambling.
In other colonies, English attitudes towards gambling and recreation prevailed. These settlers brought with them the view that gambling was a harmless diversion. In these colonies, gambling was a popular and accepted activity. Legal gambling tended to be those types that were considered proper gentlemen's diversions. For example, it took a long time for cock-fighting to become legal because it was not considered a suitable game for gentlemen.
One prominent researcher speculates that the appeal of gambling was probably heightened by the frontier spirit. The desire to explore new worlds is similar to gambling. Both rely heavily on high expectations, risk taking, opportunism, and movement.3
Despite the acceptance, gambling began to be blamed for the problems of the colonies. To investors and others in England, the prevalence of gambling suggested an atmosphere of idleness and vice. Financiers began to suspect that it was the root cause of the inability of the colonies to sustain themselves.4 The colonies had been relying on England to supply provisions and to replace dying settlers.
Lotteries Used to Bail Out the Early Colonies. Although the financial backers of the colonies viewed gambling as a source of the colonies' problems, they began to see it as the solution as well. The Virginia Company of London, the financier of Jamestown in Virginia, was permitted by the Crown to hold lotteries to raise money for the company's colonial venture. The lotteries were relatively sophisticated and included instant winners. Eventually, the crown banned the lotteries because of complaints that they were robbing England of money.5 The company dissolved shortly thereafter.
This episode was not the last use of lotteries to benefit the colonies. All 13 original colonies established lotteries, usually more than one, to raise revenue. Playing the lottery became a civic responsibility.6 Proceeds helped establish some of the nation's earliest and most prestigious universities -- Harvard, Yale, Columbia, Dartmouth, Princeton, and William and Mary. Lottery funds were also used to build churches and libraries. Ben Franklin, John Hancock, and George Washington were all prominent sponsors of specific lotteries for public works projects.
Lotteries became an issue in the drive for independence of the colonies. The colonies protested the crown's rules for holding lotteries. In 1769, the crown tried to prevent lotteries from occurring without its permission. Once the war of independence started, the Continental Congress voted a $10 million lottery to finance the war. The lottery had to be abandoned, however, because it was too large and the tickets could not be sold.
The Popularity of Lotteries Continued in the Early 19th Century. Notable among the later lotteries was a private lottery passed by Congress in 1823 for the beautification of Washington D.C. Unfortunately, the organizers absconded with the proceeds and the winner was never paid.
Lotteries were not the only form of gambling during this era. Wagering on horse racing was a popular form of gambling. Not surprisingly, it was not quite as organized nor as elaborate as modern horse racing. Rather, the gambling was limited to a few friendly bets between owners of horses and their partisans. The first racetrack in North America was built on Long Island in 1665.
Casino gaming started slowly. Taverns and roadhouses would allow dice and card games. The relatively sparse population was a barrier to establishing gaming houses. But as the population increased, by the early 1800s lavish casinos were established in the young republic.
The United States and Gambling Move West. As previously mentioned, gambling and the frontier lifestyle shared similar foundations -- a spirit of adventure, opportunity, and risk taking. During the early 1800s gambling in the lower Mississippi Valley became a legitimate and organized enterprise. The Mississippi River and connected waterways were major avenues of trade for farmers and merchants and the river boats carried passengers who had lots of cash. The south tended to have a more open attitude towards gaming, reflecting the Spanish, French, and early Virginian traditions.7 New Orleans became the capital for gambling.
Gambling establishments were started in the river towns and were popular haunts for both travelers and professional gamblers. These gamblers preyed upon these cash-laden travelers who were, "Seduced by the bright prospects of their business deals as well as by the transience of the river frontier..."8 These professional gamblers, also known as sharps or sharpers, generally were dishonest and often turned to confidence games and cheating to make money.
During the 1830's, the actions of the professional gamblers came under growing scrutiny and southern settlers turned against the professional gambler. The professional gamblers were blamed for limiting economic growth, interfering with business, endangering the streets, committing numerous crimes, and debasing the morality of the society. Vigilantism was one method by which the anti-professional gambler sentiment manifested itself. Groups of citizens organized to push the gamblers out of the South.
In 1835, a vigilante group lynched five cardsharps in Mississippi. Professional gamblers moved from the town into the riverboats. Lynching proved to be a successful policy option for reducing the presence of professional gamblers. In contrast to the river boat casinos of today, the old-time river boats were not floating casinos. Gambling occurred informally among the passengers. The period between 1840 and 1860 represented the glory days of the flashy riverboat gambler. The professional gamblers also moved to California, a history we cover in the next section.
The First Wave of Legal Gambling Draws to an End. During the early 1800's, gambling came under increasing attack. There was always a group opposing gambling on moral grounds. This opposition was largely based on religious beliefs.9 The flames of opposition were fanned, however, by the prevalence of scandals and the belief that the poor were being targeted, especially by lotteries. This opposition drew strength from the larger climate of social reform. Issues such as temperance, women's rights, educational reform, prison reform, and abolition of slavery were on the minds of many. Although there was strong sentiment to avoid interference with market forces, there was a countervailing view that people should behave in a virtuous way and that meant no gambling.10
The attack against gambling was focused particularly on lotteries because it represented a form of wagering that was offensive to both the moral sensibilities of reformers, and the Jacksonian resentment toward privilege.11 The exclusive charters granted to lottery operations were examples of this form of privilege. Ironically, President Jackson was an inveterate gambler12 and had such a history of problems that he must be viewed as a likely addictive or compulsive gambler. His gambling was well-known but tended to be seen as the behavior of a gentleman, hence he was reserved the disapprobation held for commercial gamblers.
Lottery Scandals Led to Gambling Prohibition. As noted earlier, lottery for the beautification of the nation's capital ended in scandal with the operators absconding with the proceeds. This incident illustrated the problems with the lotteries of that time as many were crooked. Increasing evidence of fraud and dishonesty in the operations of lotteries added to the opposition.13 An additional argument was that they corrupted the free press and made them captive to their huge demand for advertising.14
The antilottery forces fought against lotteries and prevailed. In 1833 Pennsylvania, New York, and Massachusetts put an end to state authorized lotteries. By 1840, most states had banned lotteries. By 1860, only Delaware, Missouri, and Kentucky still allowed state-authorized lotteries. Nevertheless, the tickets of these few states were shipped around the country by mail or smugglers. The prohibition also led to the creation of illegal lotteries.
The demise of the riverboat gambler had more to do with circumstance than direct action by the people. Emergence of railroads and the outbreak of the Civil War were the precipitating factors. Travel by steamboats declined as railroads started to supplant steamboats as the favored method of transportation. Trains were more reliable and were faster than the riverboats. The Civil War interrupted virtually all river travel and abruptly diminished gambling in that area.
The end of the first wave did not result in an end to all legal gambling. The prohibition was selective in terms of type of gambling and location. The frontier areas, California included, saw a great deal of gambling after the end of the first wave. Because of the wholesale fraud, lotteries were targeted for prohibition, but gambling in posh clubs were still legal in New York. Horse racing survived the end of the first wave relatively unscathed. As such it is more difficult to draw a clear distinction between the end of the first wave and the beginning of the second. As we shall see later, the demarcation between second and third waves are much clearer.
It was also during this time that the Grimaldis sold a concession for gaming in an attempt to keep their principality, Monaco, from going bankrupt. Monte Carlo was opened in 1858 by gambling operators who had been forced to leave Hamburg, Germany after popular opinion turned against gambling. The public disfavor in Germany occurred because of the charge that legalized gaming was turning the city into a nest of paupers.
Second Wave: Mid-1800's to Early 1900's
The expansion of the western frontier spurred the second wave. As the country moved westward, the frontier spirit continued to spread. Mining booms increased the rush to the Far West. Miners lured by the promises of easy and abundant riches, personified the frontier spirit better than the explorers before them. Mining was a gamble, and risk-taking was valued for it represented an opportunity for great wealth. These were restless and ambitious people who had high expectations.15 Probably nowhere was this more apparent than in California.
Gold Rush Set Off a Gambling Boom in California. The gold rush brought a huge increase in the amount and types of gambling to California. San Francisco replaced New Orleans as the center for gambling in the United States. The market for gambling space was so strong that a mere canvas tent, 15 by 25 feet, cost $40,000 annually, payable in advance with gold dust.
The apex of California gambling was from 1849 to 1855. Gambling became widespread throughout the state whether it was in Mexican towns like Monterey, mountain towns like Mariposa, or growing cities such as Sacramento. During this period, gambling tended to be integrated. Patrons included women, blacks, and Chinese. By 1850, both the state and cities were licensing gambling establishments to raise money.
As settlers spread beyond California, so did gambling. In general, gambling and the west were intimately linked. Gambling was especially widespread in the mining camps that multiplied as the miners spread across the west searching for new strikes.
Public Opinion Quickly Turns Against Gambling. Laws against gamblers and gambling began to be enacted in California. As with the rest of the United States, the desire for respectability and a recognition of the social ills tied to gaming led to limits on gambling. The Legislature made most types of gambling illegal. However, the Legislature's initial aim was more to target the professional gambler than gaming in general. Gamblers were affiliated with municipal corruption and were blamed for the depression that was occurring at the time.16 Lynching of professional gamblers occurred in San Francisco in 1856, in part a result of the fight for political control of the city. The gamblers were strong backers of one political faction.
Initially, the state laws were weak and had little real effect on gambling. The statutes outlawed specific games, making the laws difficult to enforce as new and unnamed variants were used and only light penalties were provided. However, the laws were gradually strengthened. In 1860, all banking games were banned. (Banking games are those where the player bets against the house.) Initially, the laws tended to focus on those who ran the games, not the players. In 1885, this was changed so that it was illegal to play. Finally in 1891, the statutes made the penalty for playing equal to the penalty for running the game.
The Prohibition Did Not Eliminate Gambling But Drove it Underground. Even in California, where most gambling was illegal, the first slot machine was invented and premiered in San Francisco in 1895.17 It was not specifically outlawed until 1911.
Nevada bounced between legalizing and banning gaming. Gambling was legal in Nevada between 1869 and 1910. As a result, gaming activity moved from California to places such as Virginia City, Nevada. Although legally protected, during this time gambling never reached the size in Nevada that it did in San Francisco.
Another effect of the antigambling laws was to stratify gaming activity more. One result was the prevalence of Chinese gaming houses that catered only to Chinese. There were also large Chinese-run lotteries that appealed to non-Chinese. Enforcement of the gaming laws became a method of discrimination. During times of strong anti-Chinese sentiment the gaming laws were enforced more vigorously against Chinese establishments.18 One operator in San Francisco who alleged discrimination took a case to the U.S. Supreme Court, but lost because he could not show that people who were not Chinese violated the law, but were not prosecuted.
Los Angeles also had gaming activity, but it was overshadowed by San Francisco. Like the city itself, gaming in Los Angeles had more of a Hispanic flavor and occurred on a smaller scale. The city eventually banned gambling which led to a number of illegal clubs and the spread to permissive suburbs.
Lotteries Began a Comeback. Following a long national tradition, the South turned to lotteries to generate revenue to rebuild the war-ravaged region. The Louisiana lottery was the most notable because of its unseemly end. In 1868, the Louisiana Lottery Company was authorized and granted a 25-year charter. A carpetbagger criminal syndicate from New York bribed the Legislature into passing the lottery law and establishing the syndicate as the sole lottery provider.19 The Louisiana Lottery was an interstate venture with over 90% of the company's revenue coming from outside Louisiana. This lottery was a prolific money maker. Attempts to repeal the 25-year charter were defeated with assistance of bribes to legislators.
Scandals and antigaming sentiment led to additional state and federal legislation against lotteries. In particular, religious leaders led the move against them.20 By 1878, Louisiana was the last of the legal lotteries in the country. The Louisiana Lottery survived until Congress enacted a prohibition against moving lottery tickets across state lines by any method. This act led to the abolition of the Louisiana Lottery in 1895. When the lottery was disbanded, it was discovered that promoters had made huge sums of ill-gotten gains. The Legislature was riven with accusations of bribery. By the end of the century, thirty-five states, including California, had in their constitutions prohibitions against lotteries and no state permitted the operation of lotteries.
Lotteries Were Not the Only Source of Gambling Scandal. Horse racing was plagued by fraud. The odds and payouts were often faked. The parties taking the bets, known as the bookmakers, often owned horses and were able to influence the race. "Ringers," horses that were fraudulent substitutes and were either much quicker or slower than the expected entry, were often raced.
The second wave of legal gambling, was relatively short-lived. Scandals and the rise of Victorian morality led to the end of legal gambling. By 1910, virtually all forms of gambling were prohibited in the U.S. The only legal betting that occurred was in three states which allowed horse racing, but even that number shrank in the ensuing years.21 The feelings against gambling ran so strong that Arizona and New Mexico were forced to outlaw casinos to gain statehood.22 However, the prohibition did not stop gambling. There were many types of illegal gambling houses. Some operated openly for many years. They, of course, had to pay protection money to the law enforcement authorities.
Third Wave (Early 1930's to Present)
The great depression led to a much greater legalization of gambling. The antigambling mood changed as tremendous financial distress gripped the country, especially after the stock market crash of 1929. Legalized gambling was looked upon as a way to stimulate the economy. Massachusetts decriminalized bingo in 1931 in an attempt to help churches and charitable organizations raise money. Bingo was legal in 11 states by the 1950s, usually only for charity purposes.
Horse racing and parimutuel wagering began to make a comeback. In 1933, Michigan, New Hampshire, Ohio, and California legalized parimutuel betting. The California Legislature adopted a statute in 1933 referred to as the Horse Racing Act. The statutes took effect upon adoption by the voters of an amendment to the Constitution in June of 1933. During the 1930's, 21 states brought back racetracks. New laws and automated systems made horse racing much more honest than during the 1800s.
Coincident with resurgence of legal gambling was a crackdown on illegal gambling, in part because illegal gambling had become so prevalent. A backlash developed and reform candidates were swept into office in New York where Fiorella La Guardia replaced Jimmy Walker and in Chicago where Anton Cermak pushed out "Big" Bill Thompson. Theater-goers were treated to newsreels of Mayor La Guardia taking a sledge hammer to slot machines and pushing them off the barge into the city's ocean dump. District Attorney Thomas Dewey ran an aggressive campaign against mobsters who were involved in gambling.
Crackdown on Organized Crime Sent Mobsters to California. The crackdown in the east had implications for California. Because of the pressure from law enforcement agencies, New York mobsters, including the infamous Benjamin "Bugsy" Siegel, moved to the West Coast. His role was to expand gaming and bookmaking operations for organized crime. Eventually, publicity was directed on him during an investigation of mob ties with the film unions, forcing him to move to Las Vegas.
At the same time, scrutiny also resulted in the closing of the floating casinos. The most famous was the Rex, a floating casino operated by organized crime that was anchored just outside the three-mile limit of state jurisdiction. Gamblers were taken out to Rex in excursion boats. The Rex and some gaming ships that operated out of San Francisco Bay were eventually closed down by law enforcement authorities.
Nevada Legalized Most Forms of Gambling in the State in 1931. The Nevada Legislature was motivated to build on the tourism boom that was expected in the wake of the completion of Boulder, now Hoover, Dam. Nevada had a flourishing, albeit illegal, gambling industry prior to the legalization. The move for making gambling legal also grew out of concerns that the flourishing illegal gambling was corrupting law enforcement and prohibition was unenforceable.23 Gaming in Nevada struggled from its inception until after World War II, when the prosperity of post-war America started a boom in the fledgling industry.
The Nevada gaming industry was helped by events in California. As stated, the gambling ships that used to leave from California ports were shut down. Municipal reform in Los Angeles kicked out many of the thriving illegal gambling businesses. These establishments were run by organized crime who moved to Nevada where their skills were desperately needed to launch the new legal gambling industry.
Organized Crime Syndicates Were Early Supporters of Gaming and Invested Heavily. Many casinos in Nevada were financed by mobsters. Most notable perhaps was Las Vegas' Flamingo which was opened in 1947 by Bugsy Siegel. Even though he had an extensive and violent criminal record, Bugsy Siegel was able to get a gaming license. Most notable of his criminal exploits was his role in arranging the murder of New York mobster "Dutch" Schultz by the infamous "Murder Inc." Today, even the hint of any such activity would be sufficient to deny a license.
Part of the reason for Mr. Siegel's success was due to his connection to the underworld. Wartime shortages did not slow down his plans because of his ties to the black market and his political connections.24 The lavish casino he built opened with such stars as Jimmy Durante, Xavier Cougat, and George Raft. The Flamingo helped establish Las Vegas, rather than Reno, as the destination for high rollers. Reportedly Mr. Siegel used too much of the mob's money on what was initially a unprofitable operation. Within the year, Mr. Siegel was gunned down at a Beverly Hills mansion.
Senate Investigated Mob Influence in Casinos. During the 1950s, the Senate Committee to Investigate Organized Crime in Interstate Commerce held a number of hearings on criminal influence in the casino industry. The committee was chaired by Senator Estes Kefauver, and the committee is also known by his name. The committee found widespread evidence of skimming, which sheltered gambling profits from taxes. The prevalence of crime left gaming once again on the verge of a national prohibition.25 The result of the committee's findings was a crackdown on criminal influence and a cleansing of the casino industry. Eventually, the mob sold their casino interests to lawful individuals and publicly-traded companies.
The link between organized crime and gambling was a factor in four state elections on legal gaming.26 In 1950, voters in California, Montana, Arizona, and Massachusetts voted against legal casino gaming. The California proposition would have established a state board to run all gaming operations with the proceeds going for old-age benefits. It lost by a wide margin.
Lotteries Begin Their Resurgence. From 1894 to 1964, there were no legal government-sponsored lotteries operating in the United States. This ban led to a paradox: lotteries were widely played, but always illegal. One of the most well known was the Irish sweepstakes which began in 1930 for the purpose of raising money for hospitals in Ireland. Although it was not legal to sell tickets in the U.S. or to ship them here, they were smuggled into the country. Participation was high with about 13 percent of the country having ever bought a ticket.27
Another prominent form of lottery was the illegal "numbers" game. Despite the illegality, numbers was quite popular. One author claimed that the amount being wagered on numbers was $5 billion in 1960.28 Another estimate shows that the numbers game was grossing $20 million annually in Chicago alone during the early 1970s and the total handle was $1.1 billion.29
Growing opposition to tax increases was a leading factor in establishing state-run lotteries in the 20th century. In 1964 New Hampshire was the first state to sponsor a lottery, followed by New York in 1967. New Jersey launched the first financially successful modern lottery in 1971. The New Jersey lottery was successful because it stressed frequent action at low cost, and it returned a higher percentage of lottery revenues as prizes. There were also various attempts to legalize a national lottery, but they failed to be passed by Congress.
In 1978, New Jersey became the second state to legalize casino gambling in an attempt to revitalize the rundown resort area of Atlantic City. The legalization was restricted only to Atlantic City. In the late 1800's to the early 1900's, Atlantic City was a popular resort town, boosted by the new rail service which linked the Northeast. Day trips to the Jersey shore were now possible and affordable. But its popularity dwindled when air travel became easily accessible. Upscale tourists chose beach resorts in Florida, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean over Atlantic City. Visitors to Atlantic City in the 1960's and 1970's were generally elderly and/or poor. Casino gaming was expected to be a way for Atlantic City to become a popular tourist destination once again.
What Could End Gambling's Third Wave? The first and second waves ended in part because of a resurgence of public concern about morality and scandals in gaming. People can live with adverse odds but not cheating.30 What kind of events could lead to scandals today? If lotteries were plagued by fraud that would probably have an impact on people's perceptions. Another route is through problems and scandal in sports gambling. Pete Rose is a symbol of what gambling can do to a person. What happens if a sports hero is more interested in winning a bet than a game? Could such a scandal impact legalized gaming?
Return to the Return to the Table of Contents


text:
Five Books To Help Get You Organized
Posted by
Becky |
View all posts by Becky
4 Comments » | Published in Design Books, Design Press, Get Organized | 4 Comments
Alright you all, there is just a week left in January and if you're anything like I am, you probably ran out of that New Year's resolution organizing steam about a week ago!
Did you get anything done? A closet cleaned? A junk drawer straightened? Tell me you at least took one box to the Goodwill or labeled something? If not, don't fret; it's a good time to give yourself a kick in the bum and try again! True confessions: I currently have two toppling stacks of tax receipts and files in the middle of my floor. I was hoping looking at the mess would make me work on them but instead I've learned not to see them.
One way to get your organizational juices flowing is by picking up a good book. Here are five tried and true tomes that will help you get inspired:
1. Good Things for Organizing by Martha Stewart Living Magazine. Say what you want about Martha, but she didn't get where she is today by being disorganized.
2. The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin. I loved this book because I could totally relate, skip around and read it out of order and enjoy seeing how Rubin's life improved as she organized her life and priorities. She has another book out now called Happier At Home that I can't recommend as I haven't read it yet, but based on how much I enjoyed The Happiness Project, I'm betting it's a good one!
3. Speaking of happiness and books, The Happy Home Book. Nayar digs deep into all sorts of topics, from how to live a sustainable, eco-friendly lifestyle to ancient traditions like Vastu. Though packed with all sorts of information, her writing style is accessible and makes this a very enjoyable read.
4. Peruse Real Simple 869 New Uses For Old Things before you get started. You may come across some junk that might just be useful during your cleanouts. Plus, some of the ideas might get you excited to start sorting and see if you can unearth any of the "old things" and use them in new ways.
5. If you're finally ready to get serious, get your hands on a copy of Unclutter Your Life In One Week by Erin Rooney Doland. Be warned: The amount of things Doland expects your to accomplish in one day is exhausting. I read this book as Unclutter Your Life In One Month and tried to get a day or two's worth of Doland's tasks accomplished in one week. It's a great step-by-step guide that will take you through the entire house.
Hi, I'm Becky. I live in Atlanta. Besides acting as the Editorial Director here on Hatch, you can find me talking design over at Houzz. Make me happy — leave a comment!


text:
Contact: Denise Germann, 406-888-5838
Contact: Jennifer Lutman, 406-888-7895
WEST GLACIER, MONT. - Glacier National Park received up to eight-tenths of an inch of rain yesterday, slowing the growth of the Avalanche Wildland Fire. Cool temperatures, wind, and chances of rain are expected to continue throughout today. Current fire activity is minimal.
Weather conditions do not allow firefighters to be on the fire line or any aviation operations today, but monitoring efforts continue. The number of people dedicated to this incident will begin to decrease as the fire becomes contained. The Avalanche Lake Trail remains closed until further notice.
The Avalanche Wildland Fire is approximately 70 acres and located on Mount Brown, near Avalanche Lake on the west side of Glacier National Park. Smoke was reported on Saturday, September 1 at approximately 2:30 p.m. and the cause of the fire is believed to be lightning. Flathead National Forest, Kootenai National Forest, and Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation assisted Glacier National Park fire managers with fire suppression operations.
Last updated: February 24, 2015


text:
A major gift from the A. Paul and Carol C. Schaap Foundation of Grosse Pointe Park is establishing multiple research fellowships for members of the Hope College chemistry faculty.
The effort is intended to help propel and sustain the Department of Chemistry at Hope as the premier chemistry program among liberal arts colleges nationally. It's also intended to build the next generation of leadership in chemistry.
"We are indebted to Paul and Carol Schaap for their generosity to the college generally and to the Chemistry Department specifically," said Hope College President John C. Knapp. "This gift will have a transformative effect for faculty and students alike. We are very excited about the example that this program provides for other friends of the college to support the academic programs that are nearest and dearest to their hearts."
The gift is through the college's "A Greater Hope" comprehensive campaign, which among its initiatives emphasizes providing support for faculty scholarly activity. The program will provide unrestricted funds to advance the research agendas of those chosen as fellows.
A total of six faculty have been named to multi-year appointments as Schaap Research Fellows. They were selected on the basis of their record of accomplishment in research scholarship as well as their skill as teachers in both the classroom and the laboratory. All of the six, as is true throughout the college's Division of Natural and Applied Sciences, work collaboratively with Hope students on their research.
The first six Schaap Research Fellows are: Dr. Maria Burnatowska-Hledin, who is the Frederich Garrett and Helen Floor Dekker Professor of Biology and Chemistry; Dr. Jason Gillmore, associate professor of chemistry; Dr. Jeffrey Johnson, associate professor of chemistry and Towsley Research Scholar; Dr. Brent Krueger, associate professor of chemistry; Dr. Graham Peaslee, who is the Elmer E. Hartgerink Professor of Chemistry and a professor of geology/environmental science; and Dr. William Polik, who is the Edward and Elizabeth Hofma Professor of Chemistry and chairperson of the department.
Schaap, who graduated from Hope with a chemistry major in 1967, provided support for the fellows program because of his lasting appreciation for the high quality of his experience as a student and his desire to help provide the same for new generations.
"It very much goes to my training and my education at Hope, particularly in the Chemistry Department and as an undergraduate research student," he said. "I owe a lot to the training and the undergraduate experience that I had at Hope College, and I want to see that continue at a very high level."
Following his time at Hope, Schaap received a Ph.D. in organic chemistry from Harvard University in 1970, joining the chemistry faculty at Wayne State University in that year. At Wayne State, he received an Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellowship, the Gershenson Distinguished Faculty Fellowship, the Sigma Xi Faculty Research Award and the President's Award for Excellence in Teaching. He was elected to the Academy of Scholars and served as its president from 1992 to 1994. In 2010, Schaap was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree by Wayne State University.
Schaap's research at Wayne State focused on the study of dioxetanes (high-energy chemical compounds which can be triggered to generate chemiluminescence or light. While continuing his teaching and research efforts at Wayne State, Schaap formed Lumigen, Inc. in 1987 to commercialize the dioxetanes which had been developed in his research laboratory. Schaap began marketing Lumigen products in 1989. The dioxetanes are now distributed worldwide by major corporations because of their sensitivity, versatility, and stability as chemiluminescent detection reagents in life science research and medical diagnostics. In 2000 Schaap retired from his position as chemistry professor to become full-time president of Lumigen. In 2006 the Southfield company was acquired by Beckman Coulter, Inc., a major medical diagnostic firm. Schaap retired from Lumigen in 2007.
The A. Paul Schaap Science Center at Hope is named in recognition of a leadership gift he made on behalf of the project. Hope presented him with a Distinguished Alumni Award in 2006, and he currently serves on the college's Board of Trustees.
The Hope College Chemistry Department is known nationally for its excellent programs in undergraduate research and education. In a study of chemistry programs at private four-year colleges published in the "Journal of Chemical Education," the Chemistry Department was recognized as outstanding in the productivity of its research program and for the accomplishments of its graduates. Among other recent achievements, across the past five years a total of nine students have received scholarships or honorable mention in the national Goldwater Scholarship program and 12 recent graduates have received fellowships or honorable mention through the National Science Foundation's Graduate Research Fellowship program. Its alumni are also well known, as Hope College chemistry graduates go on to earn a disproportionately large number of Ph.D.s in chemistry, as reported by the Franklin and Marshall study of Baccalaureate Origins of Ph.D.s.
The Hope College Chemistry Department is also a nationally recognized leader in science education, typically graduating more than 50 chemistry and biochemistry majors each year. According to annual statistics published by the American Chemical Society (ACS), Hope College has led the nation in the number of chemistry major graduates per year for a liberal arts college for each of the past four years.
The Chemistry Department has an exceptionally strong program of student-faculty collaborative research, offering one of the largest summer undergraduate research programs in the nation. Each year, more than 50 students participate in summer research with chemistry faculty. The department was also recently recognized by the ACS with the 2013 Stanley C. Israel Regional Award for Advancing Diversity in the Chemical Sciences, largely through its innovative collaborations with two-year college students that come to Hope College to conduct research.


text:
Music Invader
aus Metalab, dem offenen Zentrum für meta-disziplinäre Magier und technisch-kreative Enthusiasten.
Music Invader
A hot glued space invader on a stripped dockstar attached to a router using hot glue and carrying a half glue stick glued over the orange and green led as well as a usb drive with the other half of the glue stick hot glued to the red led and a usb sound device with a green led.
The sound system in the whatever lab is controlled by a dockstar running music player daemon. You can connect to it with a mpd client to collaboratively create and share playlists. Streaming from your laptop is also possible by running a streaming server (e.g. shoutcast/icecast) and adding the stream to the playlist. Shared media is automatically indexed.
Clients i saw people using
- gmpc - linux, windows
- sonata - linux
- mpc (command line) - linux, windows
- Theremin - mac os x
- Many more clients
Install a client for your operating system and set the host in the connection settings to 10.20.30.40.
- Configure a web interface
- Index usb drives plugged in automatically
- Use more hot glue