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Bloomberg recently ran a top story with the title "Economy of US Enters Sweet Spot as China's Growth Slows" claiming that the U.S. has become the main engine for global growth. At the same time, as U.S. equities rose past the 1400 level, we are beginning to read pieces clamoring that equities are the choice investment vehicle for the next decade, if not the next generation, using all kinds of reasoning to support their arguments. Some things will simply never change.
I don't know about you but, personally, I find it impossible to have any solid economic and financial scenario beyond the next 12 months, and even that is a bit of a stretch. Consider:
- Europe just escaped Armageddon but is nowhere near stability, let alone growth. Recent PMI data reveal that new orders weakened at an accelerating pace in March. The probability that Greece soon loses its "Greece is unique" status to Spain and/or Portugal is high and rising daily. And Italy? Not out of the woods yet, is it? Keep in mind that while we tend to analyze each of these countries separately, they are part of a tightly knitted economic area and are all significantly intertwined. Greece's problems reverberate on their trading partners. So are Italy's and Spain's, etc. These are all neighbors with compounding effects one on the others. The fiscal drags in these countries is significant and continue throughout 2013 (see RBC chart below), eroding further an already reduced purchasing power.
- Germany is weaker than thought, not only from the Eurozone woes but from a weak domestic economy as Germans keep a tight lid on their purse for reasons that are far from their own economic conditions. France is also not humming economically.
- How the Eurozone saga ends, nobody really knows. What we know is that economic recovery is not in sight yet and many are worried that the severe austerity measures will have the unintended consequence of deepening the crisis.
- Eurozone banks remain fragile and the ECB might not be able to keep patching for very long.
- China is also going through a softer patch. Europe is its main trading partner, wages are rising and its domestic economy is fighting its own housing difficulties. Can it limit the slide to a soft patch? All bets are off.
- The U.S. has admittedly been the only area with improving economic momentum. While many attribute the apparent recovery to a very early spring, actually begun last November, the fact is that America is doing better. But "how much better" is now a more important question given that the U.S. consumer has significantly reduced its savings to sustain consumption in the last 6-9 month. The U.S. is not as dependent on exports as most other nations (see the JP Morgan chart) and Canada, its main trading partner, is doing reasonably well. It remains that North America is far from booming and the U.S. will eventually (i.e. after the November elections) need to face its own fiscal challenges.
- Oh! Did we discuss oil prices, Iran's nuclear ambitions and Israel's concerns, the French elections, the U.S. elections?
All this to say that saying anything about the rebirth of equities is wishful thinking at this stage, especially after equity markets have doubled in 3 years.
Let's not forget that equities are about earnings and earnings multiples.
The Q1 earnings season starts April 10, culminating April 26 and ending May 3rd. The last earnings season did not go very well unless you own AAPL. Here's what I wrote on March 5:
Yet, to me, the biggest risk lies with earnings which, ex-Apple, have declined 9.7% QoQ in Q4. This is a pretty big event since first quarterly declines exceeding 8% have happened only 4 times since 1988. On the other hand, a second consecutive quarterly decline only happened in Q3 2007. Not much of a trend setter, but -9.7% is indeed a big decline when valuing equities on trailing earnings.
Some facts on earnings:
- profit margins peaked in Q3'11 and declined 85 bps in Q4;
- productivity rose only 0.5% in Q3'11 and 0.2% in Q4'11 after jumping +6.2% in Q1'10. Unit labor costs were +1.5% in Q4'11. They had declined 0.8% in 2009 and 2.0% in 2010. The offset to rising employment is declining productivity and increasing labor costs.
I concluded:
In all, until proven otherwise, investors should now assume that the earnings tail wind for equities has stalled.
Since I wrote TIME TO INCREASE EQUITY EXPOSURE on Nov. 17, 2011, the S&P 500 Index is up 15% while trailing earnings rose only 1.7%, even with the Apple train contributing spectacularly. The resulting increase in PE multiples has brought PE's to 14.5x, a touch below their long term average of 15, something which many bulls use as a reason to buy stocks even though not really an appealing discount.
The Rule of 20 valuation approach is certainly more inviting. With inflation at 2.9%, it states that fair PE is 17.1x which, on trailing earnings of $96.42 gives a fair valuation level of 1650 on the S&P 500 Index, nearly 18% above current level.
The inflation variable in the equation does not seem dangerous at this time. But the earnings side is more worrisome.
- S&P 500 sales trend is closely correlated with nominal GDP growth (chart from JP Morgan). Sales grew 7.9% YoY in Q4, down from 10.4% in Q3. Another slowdown appears likely.
- Profit margins peaked at 9.5% in Q3'11 and declined 8.4% to 8.7% in Q4. Given their already steep level and rising unit labor costs, the most likely trend is down.
- The consensus estimate from S&P for Q1 EPS is $23.77, essentially unchanged from Q4'11 and up 5.4% YoY, a deceleration from +8.2% last quarter, +5.5% ex Apple.
These expectations look reasonable to me but investors may be disappointed if earnings only meet expectations. Barron's last week warned:
As the first quarter comes to a close, companies in the Standard & Poor's 500 index have warned in 81 instances that profits per share will fall below prior estimates, while they raised their outlook 28 times and said earnings should fall in line in 10 cases. The ratio of negative-to-positive pronouncements hasn't been that high since the first quarter of 2009. (Barron's)
On March 5, I wrote in U.S. EQUITIES: NERVOUS GREEN LIGHT!:
In all, I am tempted to raise the yellow flag but I have finally decided against it. Here's why:
- The liquidity flush has not diminished;
- Interest rates remain excessively low, offering highly unattractive alternatives to equities at this stage. Recent announcements that some central banks are now buying U.S. equities support this view.
- Trailing earnings are not declining just yet;
- Inflation is not threatening a major move upward, leaving equities very undervalued;
- seasonality is very positive through April.
The 20% undervaluation wins over the 8-10% "technical" downside.
That was at 1367 on the S&P 500. At the current 1399, the upside to 1650 is 18% and the technical downside on a correction to the 200 day m.a. (1270) is 9-10%.
I am no technician but most of the basic indicators I follow have recently broken down as the 1400 level is proving a thick wall on the eve of earnings season.
Given the state of the Eurozone, the continued weak trend in China and my relatively pessimistic analysis on the U.S. consumer (FACTS & TRENDS: The U.S. Consumer About to Retrench), I expect economic news to err on the negative side during the next several months, prompting investors to remain cautious, even more so with the U.S. elections approaching, and the U.S. fiscal cliff just on the other side.
For these reasons, I sense that it is unlikely that markets will reach "fair valuation" (1650) within this complicated context. A repeat of last spring is more likely: in April 2011, the S&P 500 came within 10% of the Rule of 20 fair value before correcting (18%!). If 90% of fair value is all we can hope for, that's 1485, less than 10% above the current level.
Given the "technical gap" which might get aggravated by disappointing earnings, 10% upside does not provide a good risk/reward ratio.
The yellow flag if raised.
Note: if you own Eurozone equities, I hope it's not based on current consensus estimates. See this chart from ISI. How lucky do you feel?


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How to Make Watermelon Cake with whipped cream icing and fresh fruits
1 comment:
- Frank Sit said...
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- May 26, 2015 at 3:57 AM
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|Related Sections:
|Kanabec County
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Phone: (320)679-2317
This course features undulating greens and tree-lined fairways. The greens are small and the fairways are narrow. Water comes into play on several holes.
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December 7, 2012 by Leave a Comment


text: I have installed recent netbsd-6 (self built, RC1) on Mac mini G4. I have Apple wired aluminium keyboard. It worked fine during installation, but has problems with installed system. Install kernel says the following about it: uhub3 at uhub2 port 1: Apple, Inc. Keyboard Hub, class 9/0, rev 2.00/95.15, addr 2 uhub3: 3 ports with 2 removable, bus powered uhidev0 at uhub3 port 2 configuration 1 interface 0 uhidev0: Apple, Inc Apple Keyboard, rev 2.00/0.69, addr 3, iclass 3/1 ukbd0 at uhidev0 wskbd0 at ukbd0: console keyboard, using wsdisplay0 uhidev1 at uhub3 port 2 configuration 1 interface 1 uhidev1: Apple, Inc Apple Keyboard, rev 2.00/0.69, addr 3, iclass 3/0 uhid at uhidev1 not configured But on installed system it fails in both USB ports with: uhub5 at uhub3 port 2: Apple, Inc. Keyboard Hub, class 9/0, rev 2.00/95.15, addr 2 uhub5: single transaction translator uhub5: 3 ports with 2 removable, bus powered [...long pause...] uhub5: device problem, disabling port 2 From the first glace the difference between install and generic kernels is that generic has ehci configured: ehci0 at pci1 dev 27 function 2: NEC USB2 Host Controller (rev. 0x04) ehci0: interrupting at irq 63 ehci0: EHCI version 1.0 ehci0: companion controllers, 3 ports each: ohci3 ohci4 usb3 at ehci0: USB revision 2.0 while install kernel - not: vendor 0x1033 product 0x00e0 (USB serial bus, interface 0x20, revision 0x04) at pci1 dev 27 function 2 not configured Has anyone seen something like this? Any ideas? PS: Sun USB keyboard does work and, interestingly, apple keyboard also works when plugged into two of the three USB ports that Sun keyboard has. -uwe


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Touring Napa and Sonoma
By Denman Moody author, The Advanced Oenophile
A great visit highlighting great vintages
Visiting a winery in northern California used to consist of standing in a line at a tasting room, and being served, sometimes complimentary, by a middle-aged or older person who was doing it as a part-time hobby or for supplemental retirement income. For many wineries now, the scene has changed dramatically. For one thing, the wines in Sonoma and particularly Napa are so expensive, they can't afford to give them away, so a tasting charge is de rigueur. Let's start:
Inglenook — Some of the most acclaimed wines ever made in Napa Valley were the "cask" Cabernets from the '40s and '50s from Inglenook. Sadly, there were few connoisseurs and collectors around to garner kudos for them; therefore, Inglenook concentrated on and made its name with excellent jug wines — starter wines for many who are drinking great wines today!
In 1975, Francis Ford Coppola purchased the historic property — 1882 being Gustave Niebaum's first vintage at Inglenook — and started production of his flagship wine Rubicon in 1978.
For purposes of this article, a visit to Inglenook is totally different from one of even 15 years ago. The incredible structure, built in 1887 and restored in 1997, and the internal changes regarding visitor experiences are astounding, including tours of the building, the Infinity caves, the vineyards and options for seated tastings, and barrel tastings with or without seasonal, organic food pairings from winery chef Alex Lovick's kitchen. And the winemaker,Philippe Bascaules, has a classy pedigree having been at Chateau Margaux for 21 years!
A final item of interest is that the tastings are led by five wine educators who have achieved level 2 certificates or above from the Court of Master Sommeliers. The tasting options range from $45 to $135 per person. Visit inglenook.com.
Raymond — Owned by the "King" of the wine country Jean-Charles Boisset (the "Queen" is his wife Gina Gallo), Raymond is a place to marvel and gush over! Incredible! raymondvineyards.com
Continuum — After Robert Mondavi sold to Constellation Brands in 2004, he spent years planning with his daughter Marci and son Tim for a world-class winery, resulting in one of the most state-of-the-art wineries ever built, with gorgeous, scenic views to boot. The successful effort has yielded something to behold. Understated, but pure class. With the winery only recently completed, the 2013 vintage is the first complete estate effort. The Cabernet Sauvignon is $200 a bottle, and in one of my rare scores, I give it a 98! Close to perfection. By appointment only. continuumestate.com
Spottswoode — Mary Weber Novak moved to the Spottswoode Estate in 1972 when the vineyard was 90 years old. As much as she loved it, she had very little idea what it would become — she likes to call it "terroir, place and somewhereness." Just a few blocks from downtown St. Helena, gifted winemaker Aaron Weinkauf, who had previously worked with Paul Hobbs, makes three amazing wines: Sauvignon Blanc $38: Lyndenhurst Cabernet Sauvignon $75; and Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon $165. By appointment only. spottswoode.com
Chappellet — This winery with a view owns the word-famous Pritchard Hill Vineyard, over 1,000 feet above sea level, and producing world-class wines for almost 50 years. Rare depth, longevity and elegance are descriptive words for its wines. In 2008, Chappellet implemented a huge solar panel system that should reduce greenhouse gases by 4,513,275 pounds over 30 years. In 2012, the vineyard achieved California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF). The winemaker, Phillip Corello-Titus, has been hands on for a quarter of a century, and he also makes the winery's excellent Sonoma-Loeb brand as well as his family wine Titus. By appointment only. chappellet.com
Other fabulous wineries to visit in Napa Valley: Far Niente; Quintessa; Nickel & Nickel; Frank Family (with unrivaled tasting room guru Dennis Zabloski holding forth); Stag's Leap Wine Cellars; Duckhorn; Colgin (by invitation only — no appointments); Antica (owned by Piero Antinori from Tuscany); and Revana (owned by Houston cardiologist and vein specialist Dr. Madaiah Revana).
Vérité — Some of the best wines in California, or anywhere in the world, are produced at Vérité. For example, in the '07 and '08 vintages of the three Bordeaux-style wines: La Muse (Pomerol); Le Decir (St. Emilion); and La Joie (Left Bank), five received 100 Parker scores and the sixth received a 99!! 2012 and 2013 are almost the same. The late Jess Jackson apparently gave Bordeaux and Tuscan winemaker Pierre Seillan his choice of all the Jackson vineyards in Sonoma County to choose from to craft the best wines possible, and Seillan has over delivered!
The release price for these wines is $390 a bottle, and a tasting, by appointment only and relatively expensive, is recommended only for serious oenophiles and collectors. veritewines.com
Patz & Hall and MacRostie — Two of my favorite producers and favorite places to visit are Patz & Hall and MacRostie. These producers of highest-quality Chardonnay and Pinot Noir have just catapulted to a higher level with new, first-class tasting rooms. A visit to each is highly recommended. Each makes Sonoma Coast and Russian River appellations, and each makes, in the style of Nickel & Nickel in Napa, single vineyard, single varietals from only top vineyards.
MacRostie — Reservations are required on weekends and strongly recommended for weekdays. email@example.com
Patz & Hall — By appointment only. email@example.com
Other fabulous wineries to visit in Sonoma County: Jordan (the Estate Tour, between April and November from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m., is possibly the premier tour and tasting in wine country — admission $120 each — call for reservations); Iron Horse; Lancaster; Lynmar (recommended for tasting and picnic lunch — call ahead); DeLoach (owned by Jean-Charles Boisset); and Rodney Strong.
My most recent trip to Sonoma and Napa was facilitated by VisitNapaValley.com, where I discovered interesting, new information. I recommend it as a pre-visit must. Among the stops I added to my trip from this site, and all recommended are: Meritage Resort and Spa Napa Valley — Brand new with superb rooms, service, food, Trinity Tasting room, and even a good-sized bowling alley! Slightly south of Napa, so not much more than an hour and 20 minutes from San Francisco if light traffic. Room for two with king, $429. Harvest Table in St. Helena — A Charlie Palmer restaurant, the locally sourced ingredients for the excellent dishes are said to be "the best of the Napa Valley." Great food and memorable experience!! — CA' MOMI in Napa — Amazing Italian food and impressive house-cured meats. Good food, fun atmosphere!


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"Batman: Year One": Great Adaptation. Great Movie…?
Adaptations of books in Hollywood baffle me. They can manage to mangle A Midsummer Night's Dream so badly that the author's name has to become part of the title or we wouldn't be able to tell it's an adaptation. They can manage to miss the entire point of Nathaniel Hawthorne. Meanwhile, the comic books and graphic novels of Frank Miller are treated like holy writ in painstakingly accurate films that strain to include every word and every panel. This has led to the painfully awful Sin City, which looked great but failed utterly as a movie, and the laughably awful 300, which at least captured the original comic in all its kitschy, hyper-macho, aggressively simple-minded, and embarrassingly inaccurate glory.
Luckily, it seems that the adaptations have caught up to Miller's better works, and the good news is that the animated adaptation of Batman: Year One is the best adaptation yet, capturing the urban grit and noir stylings of the original book by Miller and David Mazzuchelli and making a series of very smart edits and expansions to translate the comics to animation. In fact, those edits and expansions are so well done that it's a bit of a disappointment when the movie insists on fealty to the source material to the detriment of the film. The original Batman: Year One story, serialized across four issues of the Batman comic book in the late 1980's, is an absolute masterwork of sequential art narrative, and comparing it to this animated adaptation reveals a number of ways, large and small, that the story was so specifically tailored for the medium of comics that any strictly faithful adaptation in a moving medium is going to run into some serious problems.
Not everyone might want to read my McLuhan-wannabe blather comparing comics and animation as media, so for them I'll start with a quick overview of the Blu-ray release itself. It is superb, with a set of bonuses that more than make up for the disappointing bonuses on Green Lantern: Emerald Knights. It shouldn't be any surprise that the movie looks and sounds terrific, with a razor sharp high-definition transfer and a nicely detailed DTS-HDMA 5.1 soundtrack that gooses the visuals with perfectly executed subwoofer rumbles. A very good commentary track is included with voice director Andrea "Rockstar" Romano, co-director Sam Liu, co-producer Alan Burnett, and DC creative director Mike Carlin. The track splits nicely between trivia about the movie, comparison to the comic, and commentary on Batman and Jim Gordon as characters, making it easier to forgive the moments when the participants occasionally slip into repeating what's happening on screen. If nothing else, it's clear that they're proud of the finished film and they should be.
The short running time of the film means that we get an extra "Catwoman" short film written by Paul Dini directed by Lauren Montgomery that's slick, seedy fun. Eliza Dushku reprises her role in the film as Catwoman, nicely making up for her lack of screen time there and capturing the character's sass beautifully. A highway shootout sequence is the real stunner of the short, integrating CGI and hand-drawn elements beautifully to bring a sense of speed and nail-biting suspense. However, I can't quite make up my mind if an extended sequence set in a strip bar is just excessive fanboy pandering, a deliberate jab at the more fetishistic elements of superhero costumes, or both, but either way it runs just a bit too long for comfort. The Blu-ray also includes the usual preview for Justice League: Doom, the next DTV movie, along with looks at the last two as well. A 20-minute documentary places Batman: Year One in it's historical context, although there's no information in it that hasn't already been presented in several past Batman-related DTV bonus features. A bonus examining the current Batman comics runs a numbing 40 minutes, and this longtime comic book fan was unable to maintain interest the whole way through. The two bonus Batman the Animated Series episodes are Catwoman-themed ("Catwalk" and "Cult of the Cat"); they're not bad but not terrific and don't look particularly good in their transfers. Finally, the Blu-ray comes with a digital copy of the movie (but not the "Catwoman" short) and selections from the digital copy of the Batman: Year One comic book, which is still unreadable on a large screen.
Now on to an extended comparison of the comic book and the film, so it won't do much except spoil a lot of stuff if you haven't experienced at least one of them.
There are many elements in the animated Batman: Year One that "plus" the original graphic novel by leaving things out as often as adding or editing them. First and foremost of these is the addition of sound, both in vocal performances and musical cues. However, comparing the vocal performances of the two leads highlights the challenge presented by adapting an older and well-beloved book. Despite the title, the story's hero is really Jim Gordon, and Bryan Cranston beautifully inhabits his soul and matches the world-weary voice I've heard in my head for years. However, I'm growing increasingly impatient with unnecessary articulations of story elements that work better as mysteries, so my dislike of the additional explanation of some of Gordon's past troubles is disproportionate to the material added. Ben McKenzie takes much longer to feel right as Bruce Wayne/Batman, although the fact that he develops so much more texture and nuance after he puts on the cowl makes me think that his stiff and wooden readings early in the film were a deliberate creative choice that I just don't happen to agree with.
The animated acting of the characters is also marvelously done, taking the original comic book panels as starting points and bringing them to life through the smallest tics, twitches, and grace notes. The smallest sideward glances or slouches, or even the way Gordon's eyeglasses will go from transparency to opaqueness, color the characters' performances beautifully (and, as a side note, it's these little humanizing touches that simply don't exist or don't work in motion comics, which is one reason they are so unsatisfying). The superb acting extends even to the toad-like Commissioner Loeb, gloriously voiced by Jon Polito, or mob boss Carmine "The Roman" Falcone (Alex Rocco). The movie also opts to charge up the few fight scenes in the comic to mostly good effect. The fight between Gordon and Flass early in the story is especially gripping, highlighting what a dangerous man Gordon really is.
Those bits of animated acting allowed the filmmakers to excise much of the voice-over narration that was present throughout the graphic novel. While most will describe the graphic novel as "cinematic," the narration captions don't owe as much to film noir as much as they owe to pulp fiction, tying Batman: Year One to the literary works of Daishell Hammett and Raymond Chandler rather than their cinematic adaptations. The pictures in comics leave less to the imagination than prose, but I've always felt that Miller's use of the "voice-over" captions was more of a literary trick than a cinematic one. Since the film's moving images can communicate as much or more information as the narrative captions, I think that a bit more effort could have excised them completely, which would have made for a stronger cinematic experience. As it stands, there are a few too many moments when the voice-over narrations are distracting or extraneous. You can play the scene where Gordon watches Detective Flass pounding a street punk without sound and still catch most of Gordon's inner conflict. The smallest of changes and additions would make the voice-over detailing that inner conflict completely unnecessary. The problem is that there are a few scenes which only work with the inner monologue (such as the famous "I shall become a Bat" scene), and would require major reworking to remove them. The producers have stated numerous times that they wanted to stay as faithful to the comic as possible, so that much reworking is not an option. In the case of those voice-over narrations, I think that works to Batman: Year One's benefit as an adaptation but to its detriment as a movie.
It's also a minor thing, but I find it odd that all of the tobacco use has been excised. I don't think this was something the producers came up with organically and it doesn't really affect the movie. However, if you can look at a story that involves drug dealers, dirty cops, mobsters putting infants in mortal peril, underage prostitutes, dominatrixes, people who cheat on their pregnant wives, reckless gunplay, people getting thrown through walls, and exceptionally deviant law-breaking behavior involving totemic animal outfits, and then seriously argue that the worst act someone might imitate from this movie is smoking, I may have to punch you in the face.
A larger problem with Batman: Year One are the few scenes which are faithful to the letter of Miller and Mazzuchelli's artwork, but not its spirit. The best example is the "None of you are safe" dinner sequence, presented in comics below:
One of the reasons why Batman: Year One is such a highly regarded work is the way it expertly exploits the tools of comics, such as manipulation of panel size, to trigger very precise reactions from the reader. For the most part, Batman: Year One is told in tiny little panels, which often subconsciously reinforce the suffocating and corrupt world of Gotham City. The only reasons Miller and Mazzuchelli will open up a panel is either for an establishing shot to give a sense of space (the airport and train station at the start of the book, Wayne Manor, or the East End), or to increase the panel's emotional impact. Examining the dinner scene in comics above shows all of this in play. On the first page, the first wide panel establishes the scene. The following two smaller panels exist largely to deliver long stretches of dialogue, although the second panel also yields an interesting juxtaposition. The four small panels in the bottom row and the staccato dialogue combine to simulate the way time seems to slow down during an adrenaline rush — pretty neat trick in a print medium.
Then we're hit with the big reveal of the second page, which is the moment when Bruce Wayne becomes THE BATMAN. It is not an accident that you only get this reveal by turning the page. Not only is this panel of Batman much larger than those on the previous page, it's the biggest single panel in the entire graphic novel up to that point (there's only one that's larger). This trick also freezes time because a reader will pause on that larger panel subconsciously. Every single thing about these two pages combines tools available almost exclusively to comics to give this moment tremendous psychological impact, which is why this scene is so memorable for everybody who's ever read it.
This is the animated version of the same scene:
This adaptation succeeds in some ways and fails in others. The dialogue has become much less wordy; the comic uses vapid blabbering to communicate the cacophony of a large dinner party, while the movie wisely opts to focus in on the important conversation between Loeb and the Roman. However, even though the film stays visually true to the individual panels, it does not have the ability to change the size or shape of the screen the way the comic can alter panel size, which means Batman ends up becoming a relatively small element in a widescreen frame. The comic makes Batman a giant-sized exclamation point; the film makes him a guy walking through a hole in the wall. Even on a very large screen, this moment just doesn't have the same impact that it does on the comic book page. For that matter, the explosion feels much smaller than it does on in print, where the giant sound effect bursting out of the panel borders communicates a sense of scale even though it's one of the smallest elements on the page. Again, the cinematic ways to increase a moment's psychological impact would break the film's mandate to stay as true to the comic as possible, which ultimately undermines the scene's effectiveness.
Similar changes occur during the climactic scene where Batman brings down the house on a GCPD SWAT team. The two-page sequence (page 1 and page 2) uses a lot of the same tools as the dinner scene: changing panel sizes, freezing a moment in time for maximum impact, and using sound effects as graphical elements to reinforce something in the scene. And, again, the movie makes some wise choices to turn this moment into film (exploiting sound, altering staging and camera angles for better cinematic impact), but the moment when Batman collapses the ceiling just doesn't have the same psychological impact as the comic's larger panel.
To be fair, there are lots of moments when the movie either substitutes the right cinematic technique for a comic book one (like several scenes of Selina Kyle leaping off fire escapes), or where the comic book technique can be mirrored by the cinematic one (the wide panel of Detective Essen suggesting "Share a cab?"). It's telling that the moments that are the most visibly re-staged ("I shall become a Bat" scene and the climactic chase at the end of the story) are also some of the most effective pieces of animation in the film. Batman: Year One makes a lot of smart choices in adapting this material to film, and there really aren't a lot of fumbles. However, the skill displayed elsewhere at being animation makes it more noticeable when the movie is just being an adapted comic book page.
The last problem that Batman: Year One has as a film adaptation are structural. The transitions as Batman: Year One jumps forward in time flow more smoothly in print than they do on screen. This is partially due to the narrative captions providing context (another reason why I look at them as tied to prose rather than noir voice-over because it's important that the captions are read and not heard), but the book also signals those jumps with a date caption. The movie faithfully mirrors the date captions, but this is a technique that works better in print than it does on a screen, especially when the jumps vary from a day to weeks or more. It's easy to flip back and forth between pages to compare datestamps because the experience of print is under the control of the reader. It's far, far harder to do the same with a film, even on DVD (and yes, this is one of my issues with Young Justice). The end result is a somewhat disjointed narrative which fans of the book may not even notice, but which may leave a newcomer more confused than they should be.
Batman: Year One is also narratively different from a work like Miller's The Dark Knight Returns, since it was serialized in the Batman comic book and still retains some traces of that heritage. This story was always intended to be a single part of a much larger, more continuous whole. There are elements that exist in the book which don't pay off in the story at all, such as the entire Catwoman arc. It's fun to see her show up in the comic because you know who she is and that she'll show up again (and, in fact, Miller and Mazzuchelli increased her impact specifically because "Selina Kyle" existed previously and their Selina was so different than her previous incarnations). In contrast, the movie makes it much clearer exactly how superfluous Selina Kyle is to this story after her one initial scene. The punch line is that I suspect comic book fans will adore Batman: Year One, but that it won't have the same impact to those unfamiliar with the source material (and the reaction of my colleague Maxie Zeus seems to bear that out).
I have spent more time on the movie's slips than its successes, but I do want to make it clear that these slips are the exception and not the rule. I still greatly enjoyed Batman: Year One for the most part, and maintain that it is easily the best Frank Miller adaptation to date. However, it just doesn't achieve escape velocity from the source material in the same way that All-Star Superman managed. Batman: Year One comes tantalizingly close to being a great animated film, but ends up settling for being a great animated adaptation.


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The Man I Love
- Artist: Johnny Griffin
- Genre: Jazz
- Release Date: 8/12/2016
1967 Live Set from Johnny Griffin Affirms His Billing as the 'World's Fastest Tenor' and Cooks With Red-Hot Rhythm Section. Audiophile-Tailored Deluxe Edition Title: Numbered Set Includes Standard 180g LP + 180g 45RPM 2LP with Exclusive Diecut Black Gatefold Jacket-Limited to Just 500 Worldwide Copies! Spectacular Audiophile Restoration Series Resurrects UK Label Black Lion: Mastered at Bernie Grundman Studios by Chris Bellman and Pressed at Pallas. EQ Notes and Curation Performed by Iconic Engineer Steve Hoffman; LPs EQ'd and Set Up by Bernie Grundman. Conceived, Designed, and Manufactured for Collectors and Enthusiasts: Vinyl Jacket Features Exclusive Art. Johnny Griffin had a reputation as the 'world's fastest tenor.' At this intense live date captured at Club Montmarte in Copenhagen in 1967, the saxophonist lives up to such a billing and more, attacking five compositions with dynamite energy and blinding speed. In addition, Griffin displays the warm and sensitive side he developed later in his career on a touching rendition of Duke Ellington's 'Sophisticated Lady.' Throughout, he's aided by a resolutely controlled and superbly dynamic rhythm section comprised of bassist Niels Pederson and drummer Albert 'Tootie' Heath, who, with pianist Kenny Drew, match Griffin's red-hot bravado. This is a hard-bop set no one will want to be without. Originally released by the UK label Black Lion, an imprint that specialized in resurrecting rare gems from US jazz and blues legends, The Man I Love is on par with Griffin's finest studio outings for Blue Note and a can't-miss opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to get closer to the man and his music. Orchestrated by ORG Music, this historical reissue is afforded the ultimate in audiophile production standards, resulting in sonics and presentation befitting the museum-like worth of this record's existence. Mastered from the original master tapes at Bernie Grundman Studios by Chris Bellman and pressed at Pallas, the 180g LP and 45RPM 2LP set was curated by legendary engineer Steve Hoffman and eq'd by Grundman himself. A better team you cannot find; every step involved serious quality-control measures to guarantee gorgeous sound. The superb vinyl housing features exclusive diecut black gatefold jacket. Numbered and limited to 500 worldwide copies, this is what being a collector is all about.
|The Man I Love
|Black Lion
|180 Gram Vinyl, Gatefold LP Jacket, Limited Edition, Deluxe Edition
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Bricklayers Tools - Concreters Tools - Landscaping Tools
Bricklaying, concreters, landscapers tools and supplies, trowels, levels, string line - you name we have it.
Fresno Trowel 900mm Marco Pesaro
The Fresno is fitted with a bracket and tilt mechanisim as pictured, this allows the fresno trowel to tilt the same as a Bullfloat and be pushed forwards and pulled backwards.
Used in conjunction with a Telescopic handle.
Price $86.00


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It's a slow day for actual news, but the silly news has been off the chart!
We've seen Megan Fox's breasts, heard Darth Vader channelling Daniel Plainview, and now some clever geek has given us a glimpse at what War Machine might look like in Iron Man 2.
Hit the link to Film School Rejects to take a look at a decent sized version of the fan art. We like the glowing eyes, best. That or the rocket launchers.
source:( Film School Rejects )


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Eurozone on tenterhooks as Greek investors pull €1.4bn in deposits out of banks in just two days
Greek citizens are withdrawing deposits from domestic banks at an increasing rate as fears grow that the country faces a rapid devaluation if it leaves the eurozone.
Investors pulled out €700million from Greek banks on Monday, and the same figure again yesterday.
President Karolos Papoulias told political leaders that 'fear that could develop into panic' at the ailing country's banks, weeks before the fresh elections which could spell the nation's exit from the single currency.
Crisis talks: New French president Francois Hollande and German Chancellor Angela Merkel continued their discussions yesterday as Greece faced the threat of leaving the single currency
Greeks have been gradually withdrawing their savings over the past two years as the country's financial crisis deepened, either sending the money abroad or keeping it in their homes.
'I would expect the population to quietly be doing what it has been doing in the last days. In other words, some of the Greek citizens are afraid and are taking a portion of the money, but I'm not expecting a bank run,' said Theodore Krintas, managing director of Attica Wealth Management.
And Bank of England governor Mervyn King today said contingency plans for a eurozone break-up were being discussed between the Bank and the UK government.
David Cameron also warned that Europe faces the potential break-up of the single currency unless urgent action is taken to deal with the euro crisis, warning the eurozone has to either 'make-up or break-up.'
Greece's warring parties have refused to form a viable coalition, triggering new elections that could strengthen the hand of opponents of Greece's EU bailout.
Central bank head George Provopoulos said savers withdrew at least €700million ($894million) on Monday, the president told party chiefs.
'Mr Provopoulos told me there was no panic, but there was great fear that could develop into a panic,' the minutes quoted the president as saying.
'Withdrawals and outflows by 4:00 pm when I called him exceeded €600million and reached €700million,' he said. 'He expects total outflows of about €800million, including conversions in German Bunds and other such things.'
IMF chief Christine Lagarde had earlier in the day joined a string of EU policymakers who have over the past days lifted the taboo of openly discussing the prospect of an exit of Greece from the euro zone. She said it was important to be prepared for that possibility and warned that an exit would be 'quite messy'.
The spectre of Greece quitting the single currency sent the euro sliding on Wednesday and raised the yields on Spanish and Italian debt, reflecting the risk that other European countries will be hurt.
European stock markets initially plunged and while those on the Continent recovered the FTSE 100 index in London closed 32.4 points down at 5,405.25.
Warning: Christine Lagarde, IMF managing director, said the financial body had to be 'technically prepared for anything', while Bank of England governor Mervyn King said 'contingency plans' were being made between the bank and UK government
Newly elected Greek leaders - hotly divided over how to resolve the country's economic crisis - failed to form a new government. That means new elections must be held in June.
Traders fear a win by parties that oppose highly controversial austerity measures necessary for Greece to qualify for urgently needed bailout money.
Without the money, the country would likely default on its debt and leave the euro common currency.
'The Greek crisis will continue to frustrate markets, keeping sentiment under pressure,' analysts at Credit Agricole CIB in Hong Kong wrote in an email.
Europe's latest political impasse cast a gloom over financial markets yesterday. The euro plunged, and the Dow Jones industrial average extended a slide that has wiped out nearly 5% of its value in two weeks.
The Dow closed down 0.5% at 12,632. The Standard & Poor's 500 index finished down 0.6% at 1,330.66. The Nasdaq composite index fell 0.3% to 2,893.76.
IMF head Christine Lagarde said it had to be 'technically prepared for anything' after Athens confirmed that fresh elections would be held next month.
Experts warned, meanwhile, that a Greek exit from the euro could cause difficulties for other struggling economies such as Portugal, Spain and Italy.
The Treasury confirmed that it was keeping British contingency plans for a Greek exit of the euro – dubbed 'the Grexit' – under active review.
Some Greek ministers have warned leaving the euro could spark 'civil war'.
Experts believe a Greek withdrawal could put nations such as Spain and Portugal under pressure to do the same and trigger the collapse of the euro.
The warning came after talks to form a government following this month's inconclusive elections collapsed.
Greek president Karolos Papoulias will confirm today that new elections will be held next month to break the deadlock.
It also emerged that companies and the rich have withdrawn £560million from Greek banks since the elections on May 6.
The eurozone bailout fund last week approved most of the latest tranche of cash for Greece, totalling £3.4billion.
But most of this will be eaten up by a £2.6billion loan payment to the European Central Bank, which is due this week.
Italy's banking and business community today responded angrily to credit rating agency Moody's mass downgrade of 26 of their banks.
They called the move 'irresponsible' and 'an assault on the austerity-hit country' as it struggles with an economic crisis.
Moody's pinned the downgrade on a weakening operating environment made worse by Prime Minister Mario Monti's tough austerity cure.
'Moody's decision is an assault against Italy, its companies, its families,' said Italian banking lobby ABI.
'Once more rating agencies turn out to be a destabilising factor for financial markets with their partial and contradictory statements.'
Big business lobby chief Emma Marcegalia said she was concerned by such an 'attack against Italy.'
Moody's downgrade came on the back of its February cut of Italy's sovereign rating to A3 from A2 and makes the ratings of Italian banks among the weakest in western Europe.
While large groups such as Intesa Sanpaolo and UniCredit have enough international reach and capital to absorb the hit, this is more problematic for smaller lenders such as Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena, which now stands just above 'junk' or non-investment grade status.
There is mounting uncertainty over whether a £25billion payment to Greece due at the end of next month will go ahead unless it agrees to stick to the austerity deal imposed by the IMF and the eurozone.
Greek transport minister Makis Voridis last night warned that failure to make the payment would effectively lead to his country dropping out of the euro.
He said: 'If government instability continues then some fiscal aid will stop. Then it will be almost a necessity to return to the drachma in order to be able to pay the deficit.'
As French President Francois Hollande flew to Berlin for crisis talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel last night, opinion polls suggested the Far-Left Syriza party, which wants to scrap the austerity measures, is likely to become the biggest party in Greece.
Syriza has pledged to 'tear up the barbaric accord' that underpins the bailout deal.
Mr Hollande and Mrs Merkel last night promised to continue helping Greece.
The new French president said: 'We will be supporting Greece, so we can pull Greece through the recession.
'It's our duty to ensure Greece remains in the eurozone.'
Mrs Merkel added: 'We wish to have Greece within the euro and we know the majority of the Greek population agree with us.'
But German finance minister Wolfgang Schauble suggested there was no mood for compromise among EU leaders.
Speaking at a gathering of finance ministers in Brussels, he said: 'If Greece wants to stay in the euro, then they have to accept the conditions. Otherwise it isn't possible.'
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Bang & Olufsen connectors pinout?
I'm looking for the pinout of some B&O connectors
-Audio aux link
-Power link
I've found the audio in for the audi aux link, but I'd like to know where I can take the audio out (without using a scart)
Sockets in equepment:
Pin 1 = Power link on; on > 2.5V, off =<0.5V
Pin 2 = Signal gnd
Pin 3 = Left
Pin 4 = Speaker on/mute; on > 2.5V, off =<0.5V
Pin 5 = Right
Pin 6 = Data; High > 3.5V, low < 0.8V
Pin 7 = gnd
Pin 8 = Not used anymore, used to be speaker/amp overload
Audio Aux link:
Pin 1 = Left in
Pin 2 = Signal gnd
Pin 3 = Left out
Pin 4 = Right in
Pin 5 = Right out
Pin 6 = Data; High > 3.5V, low < 0.8V
Pin 7 = Not used
Thank you! :)
Are all the audio signals at line level?
The AAL is 2V rms unregulated.
The PL is up to 4 V rms in newer products if I remember correctly
What's the difference (appart the voltage) between the various audio outputs?
AAL is a line signal, unregulated, from source to master
PL is a volume controlled signal, from master to active speaker
Thank you Jens!
I'll go for the AAL, so
Bang & Olufsen Powerlink Control Protocol
Does anyone know anything about the B&O powerlink serial control protocol? I have a BeoLab 2 and a Beolab 7-4 that I would like to control without using a BeoSound system.
To do this I imagine I would need to know the commands to ramp the volume of the speakers and power on / off commands (if this is done using the data line as well as the powerlink on / speaker on lines). I would also need basic protocol infromation (such as is this RS232, TTL etc).
Any help at all would be appreciated, as at the moment I'm completely in the dark about the serial control of these speakers...
Marek von Bertouch
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It is very rare that one expects to develop a large client-server database from scratch. In most cases, the business enterprise has been saving data for some time, and the historical data from the business exists in a different format. A key component of developing a successful business system is the inclusion and melding of that pre-existing data into a system.
In other cases, data on one server needs to be transferred, migrated, shared, downloaded, or replicated on another server. There may be SQL Server installations of the same of different vintages, or, commonly, different database management systems, such as Oracle, Sybase, or db2. Some times these requirements are one-time events, but it is common to have a business requirement that data is moved, partitioned, or shared frequently, or even continuously.
Microsoft SQL Server 2000 has three tools that are shipped with the product and can manage any or all of the requirements suggested above. There is some overlapping, however each tool has different strengths and characteristics. The trick is selecting the proper tool for the job, and configuring the system properly to achieve your objectives.
The first class of tool is the Bulk Copy Program (BCP), along with its associated routines, BULK INSERT, and the bulk API library applications. This tool is used primarily for grunt-type ad hoc large volume copying operations particularly to and from flat files. The second tool is the Data Transformation Services (DTS), which is particularly suitable for moving data on an on-going basis between various Microsoft programs (and some other brand-name database managers for which drivers exist). The last technique is a set of tools for replication of database between SQL Servers (and some other brand-name client server database managers) on a continuous basis, and is used to keep multiple data sources synchronized with each other.
It's convenient yet dangerous to make an automotive analogy of these tools. Dangerous because the analogy itself reveals my own preferences, and risks becoming out-of-date as marketing nuances of those manufacturers change. It's convenient because analogies are the easiest way to describe the tools in a compact way. The BCP tools are like a Ford F-350 heavy-duty pickup – diesel powered, lots of room, available with dual sets of rear wheels- a real powerful workhorse. The DTS tools are less flexible and powerful, but are very useful for moving data on programmed basis to and from predictable locations. I think of DTS as a well-equipped SUV – with all the comforts to make the whole family happy. The replication tools are like a Jaguar – a precision but finicky machine. Once you get it tuned, you can trust it to handle well on the open road, buMay 23, 2006 set up programs and interfaces to handle just about any business condition that requires distributed database processing and synchronization of multiple data sources.
Tutorial: Using Access or SQL Server to write your ASP codeThis resource discusses how to use SQL server to write ASP code.
Metro NY / NJ SQL Server Consultants
We specialize is custom database software. Call us for a free consultation (973) 635 0080
Computer Consultants: Database Development


text: On Fri, Dec 02, 2005 at 11:45:39PM +0100, Roland Illig wrote: > ===> Forcing many variables to be modified using only "+=" > > The whole pkgsrc system would be much more understandable if we had only > variables that are modified using a very restricted set of operations. > The operations I have in mind are: > > "?=" default value assignment > "+=" appending to a list > "=" simple assignment (should happen only once per variable) > > That way, if you add something to a list you can be sure that it doesn't > get removed later. Currently this is not guaranteed. Just have a look > for the various places where CONFIGURE_ARGS is modified using the ":=" > operator, which evaluates its right-hand-side and assigns it to its > left-hand-side. So let's say you have the following lines: > > CPPFLAGS+= -DFOO=1 > CONFIGURE_ARGS+= CPPFLAGS=${CPPFLAGS:M*:Q} > CONFIGURE_ARGS:= ${CONFIGURE_ARGS:N--with-ncurses} > CPPFLAGS+= -I/usr/local/include > > The last addition to CPPFLAGS won't make it into CONFIGURE_ARGS. Now > imagine that these four assignments are all in individual files, spread > around the whole pkgsrc tree. How do you find the cause that > "-I/usr/local/include" is not included in the CPPFLAGS passed to the > configure script? You need to allow := (and maybe !=) in places where it is necessary to get the RHS evaluated at that time, or only once. But typically the LHS of those needs to be a variable that is never set again, and immediately used on the RHS of a += assignment. David -- David Laight: firstname.lastname@example.com


text: Main Category Prototype Install/H... How to get the game... Forum - Page Not Found 404 Oops! The page you requested was not found! You can go to Forum Home page or Search here Forum Statistics 13 Forums 30 Topics 154 Posts 0 Online 5,659 Members Latest Post: UPDATE 04/06/2017 Our newest member: Recent Posts Topic Icons: New Replied Active Hot Sticky Unapproved Solved Private Closed Working Please Login or Register


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Waynesburg University classical studies
Think about what career is best suited for you, and where you want to study. Request more information now.
Think about what career is best suited for you, and where you want to study. Request more information now.
Think about what career is best suited for you, and where you want to study. Request more information now.
Get info about Waynesburg University classical studies, and registering for elective seminars and discussion sections. As a student, your first stop should be the registrar's office, where you can pick up a free copy of both the academic calendar and course catalog, in order to find available credit classes that you may be interested in taking. Consult with an academic advisor, to ensure that your chosen classes constitute a full-time course load, and fulfills major requirements. Finally, check with your major department for assistance with prerequisites, tuition payment deadlines, and Waynesburg University major requirement information. Please use the form above to request admissions info for Waynesburg University.
Popular college classes include engineering, computer programming, nursing, and business administration. Technical degree programs may be a low-cost alternative to attending a regular four-year college or university, and you might end up earning good money as a highly-skilled, technical consultant. Massive Open Online Courses offer a variety of learning programs, utilizing cloud-based software and Google APIs to deliver a real-time learning environment online.
The high quality of classes, combined with low-cost tuition, encourages many high school graduates to continue their education at a community college. In most states, community colleges have transfer agreements in place with dozens of public and private universities. In fact, among all students in the US who earned a bachelor's degree, almost one third had supplemented their college education with classes from a community college. Beyond consideration for Waynesburg University classical studies, you may think about Pikes Peak Community College grade reports for complementary electives to your primary course of study.
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SPC will assist cohort members with furthering their education by acquiring a technical certification or college degree in a supportive environment.
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This was the last time Gov. David Paterson will appear in his official capacity on John Gambling's radio show, and after discussing pardons and commutations — he promised some more are to come, so brace yourselves — he reflected on his unexpected tenure as New York's chief executive.
"Well, in spite of the very difficult challenges we've had in this state, maybe as difficult as have ever existed, in the past three years, it was an honor to serve and it was a spectacular experience in my life," Paterson said on WOR.
"I tried hard at all times. There are, sometimes the times define the leadership. And certainly, let's say, even if there was some scintilla of truth to the allegations we're discussing this morning, the overall problem is that too many people have blissfully decided that we're not in a recession an that we're not having severe problems, and that shrill reaction I see coming to an end. It sounds to me like Gov.-elect Cuomo has got the legislative leaders to a place where they're all saying the right things right now and I would hope that after a couple of years, everyone will recognize the situation we're in, and to have been the person forced to guide this state during this difficult storm, I'm satisfied that I made as great an effort as I possible could."


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Tag Archives: education
For the Sea-Foodies
We play music. We love food. Music can play a big role in how you taste food, and food can influence the way you hear music. Our senses are all connected, just as music and food are connected as integral … Continue reading
Posted in Culture Tagged culture, Dungeness crab, education, food, foodie, Kore Ionz, music, Pacific oysters, shrimp Leave a comment
Arts Corps Raises $140,000+ at La Festa del Arte
Last Thursday we kicked off a whole weekend of shows starting at The Triple Door in support of Arts Corps, the largest non-profit arts educator in the Seattle area. Over the course of the night, Arts Corps was able to … Continue reading
Posted in Live Shows, News Tagged Aaron Walker-Loud, arts, Arts Corps, Big World Breaks, Dave Matthews, education, Jerome Aparis, Kore Ionz, La Festa del Arte, Massive Monkees, Mayor Mike McGinn, music, seattle, The Triple Door, Vicious Puppies Crew, Washington Middle School, West Seattle High School, Wild Syde Leave a comment


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Yesterday's post on the 1998 Revolutionary Girl Utena visual novel for the Sega Genesis is quite popular for some reason, so let me add a few more links of interest.
I have located exactly one walkthrough for the game, presented by Rouroni Kaji on GameFAQS. It's a text file that briefly outlines the different game paths and lists what you need to accomplish each of the game's nine possible endings. It's a brief outline, with no images or description, that's meant to be used in conjunction with the game, so it's more-or-less unintelligible by itself.
There is also a playthrough of the English fansub by Geek Sentai on YouTube. It's divided into parts; I post only the first here.
It's not exactly exciting to watch; visual novels are sort of like adventure games minus everything that makes them even slightly interesting.


text:
Japanese pressing of the highly in-demand Lumpy & the Dumpers discography LP. Comes with a full color book full of live pictures, flyers, and lyrics.
NOTE: Our copies did get a little banged up on their way here from japan and nearly every copy has a 1/4 inch ding on one of the corners. (If you look at the picture it's the bottom right corner of the jacket)Our take: Japanese release of the much-hyped Lumpy & the Dumpers discography here. This version is musically pretty much identical to the European release which sold out instantly a few months back. The packaging on this version, however, is a bit nicer, with a proper printed LP jacket and a really cool, full-color 12"x12" booklet showcasing lots of artwork, photographs, and other ephemera. While it's not quite as extensive, it's very much like the booklet that came with the Agnostic Front No One Rules LP. A very cool package, and I'm sure for many fans this will be the definitive version of this release.


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|Villa Turquesa
Villa Turquesa is located on the beautiful white sand beach of South Akumal. This quiet, residential, beachfront neighborhood is located just 60 miles south of the Cancun Airport and only 1.5 miles south of North Akumal. Upon entering this quaint, gated community, Villa Turquesa is the very first home you come to and will be found tucked away amongst breathtaking tropical surroundings.
The white sand beach in front of this gorgeous villa is open and inviting. Find yourself strolling along this unforgettable shoreline with easy access to the crystal clear ocean in front of you and an expansive, undeveloped jungle lot to one side, which will ensure privacy. It's the perfect place to relax in chaise lounges while the kids splash around in the refreshing waters of the villa's ample-sized pool, which overlooks this exclusive beach setting. Just as magnificent as these surroundings and picturesque views are from the exterior, the same holds true for the interior of Villa Turquesa.
This 3500 square foot villa, with an open floor plan, offers plenty of luxurious living space. The attractive and spacious living area with plush, new furniture allows for the utmost in comfort and relaxation. The living room, which boasts a sofa suitable for eight, flows nicely into the lavish dining area which has a beautifully carved dining table that comfortably seats 10. Included in the spaciousness of the living area and sharing the same magnificent views of the Caribbean, is the large, fully equipped, gourmet kitchen with granite countertops which offers easy and enjoyable cooking as well as delightful entertaining. You can choose to create your own meals or have the cook come in and prepare scrumptious dishes for you in the lavish surroundings of your very own villa!
Strolling down the hallway, past the charming half bath/powder room, you come to the cozy downstairs guest bedroom which has two queen size beds, its own full bath and lovely garden views. Returning towards the front door and climbing the stairs, you come to the warm and sunny studio which offers two couches, satellite TV with DVD player and stunning views of the ocean and lush, green jungle. This studio, which is also the second entertainment area, has a shared full bath with the children's room which has a single trundle bed and a set of bunk beds. The studio also features a lovely little nook complete with a desk, chair and wireless internet connection.
There are three large bedrooms located off of the studio each with its own luxurious bathroom and all with stand up showers. The first bedroom is the deluxe master bedroom with one king bed, a big balcony and fabulous views overlooking the majestic Caribbean. The roomy second guest bedroom, with two queen beds, shares the same big balcony and spectacular ocean views with the master bedroom. The spacious third guest bedroom also has two queen size beds and amazing jungle views.
Max. Occupancy: 14
Beach: Yes
Main house
Guest house: 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms (each bedroom has a private bathroom)
Maximum occupancy: TOTAL 20 adults and 4 children


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I-90 wreck causes traffic backup
Updated 5:25 pm, Wednesday, January 23, 2013
ALBANY — A collision between an SUV and a small bus caused traffic delays for miles on Interstate 90 early Wednesday morning, according to state police.
The accident, on the eastbound side of Interstate 90 between Exit 2 and Exit 3, occurred when an SUV rear-ended a 14-passenger contract bus just before 8 a.m. Traffic was stop and go, and a bright morning glare prevented the SUV from seeing the brake lights on the bus, police said. The accident shut down the right and center lanes during morning commuter traffic.
No injuries were reported after the crash, police said.


text:
Why the Programming Language C is Obsolete. C obsolete? Really? Someone forgot to tell Linus. Bjarne Stroustrup is clearly a smart guy and by all accounts a nice guy so I hate to call his baby ugly but Damn! that's one ugly baby.
At one point in my career I tried really hard to like C++ but I could never convince myself that it was anything other than a disaster. Perhaps I'm not smart enough to learn C++ adequately or to see its manifest superiority because it still looks ugly to me. One advantage of writing in C rather than a Lisp-like language or Python or Ruby is that you can get almost down to the metal. Lots of fine grained control but, of course, you pay for that by having to worry about memory management and other annoying details. Another advantage, for me, is that I have an excellent mental model of what code will be generated for a given C statement and can use that model to pick between alternative C constructs for a particular task.
C++ adds complexity and destroys my mental model but still requires me to worry about low level details like memory management. How is this an improvement? Object Oriented Programming I hear you say. Except that it's not clear that the benefits are worth the costs as far as C++ goes. I know, I know, Apostasy! Still, I can't help but agree with Linus on this.


text:
Boulevard Heights - Lot #55
Lot #55 - $281,900Reduced from $308,777!
Plan: The Kingston
Style: Two Story
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2.5
Square Feet: 1,920
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New price reduction on the best value in Boulevard Heights! Come see this Green Verified Kingston model home now available! The open floorplan showcases the dark hardwood floors, upgraded trim, arched openings and versatility of this plan. A gas fireplace warms the hearth room that can be seen from the open, upgraded kitchen w/ stainless appliances, 42" cabinets, crown molding, fully trimed island and more! A tankless h/w heater and high-efficiency furnace saves you $$$ during the upcoming winter, and the 2nd floor laundry is a homeowners' favorite!
Floor PlansClick the images for a larger version. Floor plans below may show options not available in this home.
Some options shown in the floorplans above may not be included.


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This is one of our favorite smoothies that we whip up about once a week. This Wild Root Smoothie is loaded with root vegetables, including beets, carrots, turnips and fresh ginger.
Beets have been used medicinally since the days of the Ancient Romans, who recognized the colorful root as a potent aphrodisiac. Beets are high in boron which aids in the production of human sex hormones. There are naturally occurring nitrates in beets which can also increase blood flow, which is code for "awesome" whether you're a guy or a gal.
Here are a few more benefits of the powerhouse root veggies in this smoothie:
Carrots are packed with vitamin A and beta-carotene, and are known for improving vision, protecting against cancer, slowing aging, promoting healthy skin, preventing infection, and cleansing the body.
Beets are loaded with vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, fiber, phosphorous, iron, vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, beta-carotene, and beta-cyanine.
Turnips boost your intake of vitamins C, B-2, B-3, B-9, E, K, as well as magnesium, potassium phosphorous, and zinc.
Ginger improves the absorption and assimilation of essential nutrients in the body, making it a great addition to this smoothie. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and works wonders on upset tummies.
And greens? Well, we all know that they're basically the healthiest thing on earth. 🙂
We hope you enjoy this "red" green smoothie – it's a nutrient-dense treat for the senses.
- 1 organic beet (peeled and quartered)
- ½ organic turnip
- 2 organic carrots
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger root, peeled
- ½ ripe organic peach
- large handful parsley leaves
- 2 big handfuls of greens (mixed greens, kale, beet greens, etc)
- 2 tablespoons hempseed
- 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds (ideally, soaked in water for at least 20 minutes)
- 1 cup ginger kombucha (optional)
- dash of organic 100% stevia extract
- 1 cup ice
- Purified water
- Add all ingredients to your blender along with enough water to facilitate blending.
- Blend until smooth.
- Serve immediately, or cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
If you like tasty smoothies, hearty feasts, and paleo-friendly treats, you should check out the Fat-Burning Tribe, our online community. We share recipes like this every week, and have a whole library of meal ideas, Q+A sessions where we answer your questions, and step-by-step cooking videos to help you feed yourself and your family delicious, fat-burning foods.


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Information Technology
Information Technology at The College of New Jersey is comprised of four separate but highly integrated operating units: Enterprise Applications, Network and Technical Services, User Support Services, and an administrative layer called IT Administration. While each of these units is charged with handling a separate aspect of Information Technology at The College of New Jersey, Information Technology uses the method of integrated planning described below:
- The director of each operating unit creates a white paper that outlines the strategic plans and goals for the upcoming year. These white papers are compiled, along with supporting documentation, into one overall IT white paper. This white paper is then reviewed by each of the directors and the Chief Information Officer for accuracy and completeness.
- The white paper is then presented to Cabinet to solicit input regarding projects that have a major budgetary impact and/or have a major impact on the college's strategic initiatives and technology infrastructure. This input will assist in further clarification of the scope of the items in the strategic plan and the impact on The College community as a whole.
- Taking into account the feedback from Cabinet, the IT directors will develop a detailed project plan for the upcoming year (for more information, see the Appendix of the planning documents below). This detailed project plan is reviewed by the directors and Chief Infomation Officer, and widely distributed within IT, as well as to any department that is included as a resource or impacted by these plans.
The allocation of the IT budget for the upcoming academic year is guided by this process, which allows for input from the various operating units and the leadership of The College.


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Walker & Dunlop Announces Repurchase of Approximately 2.4 Million Shares Held By Column Guaranteed LLC
Mar 14, 2014, 18:05 ET from Walker & Dunlop, Inc.
BETHESDA, Md., March 14, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Walker & Dunlop, Inc. (the "Company") (NYSE: WD) announced today that it has entered into an agreement to repurchase 2,450,451 shares of Walker & Dunlop's common stock owned by Column Guaranteed LLC ("CG"), an affiliate of Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, at a negotiated purchase price of $14.50 per share.
Following completion of the repurchase, which is expected to settle on March 17, 2014, CG will no longer hold a position in Walker & Dunlop. This repurchase was not part of any broader repurchase plan that the Company has in place.
About Walker & Dunlop
Through its subsidiary Walker & Dunlop, LLC, Walker & Dunlop, Inc. (NYSE: WD) is one of the leading commercial real estate finance companies in the United States, with a primary focus on multifamily lending. As a Fannie Mae DUS®, Freddie Mac Program Plus® and MAP- and LEAN-approved FHA lender, the Multifamily and FHA Finance groups are focused on lending to property owners, investors, and developers of multifamily properties across the country. The Capital Markets group specializes in financing commercial real estate for owners and investors across the United States, securing capital from large institutions such as life insurance companies, commercial banks, CMBS lenders, pension funds, and specialty finance companies. The Proprietary Capital group develops new financial products and provides institutional advisory, asset management, and investment management services with respect to debt and equity, including bridge financing. Walker & Dunlop, LLC has more than 400 employees located in 21 offices nationwide. For more information about the Company, please visit www.walkerdunlop.com or follow us on Twitter at @Walkerdunlop.
Forward Looking Statements
Some of the statements contained in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to expectations, projections, plans and strategies, anticipated events or trends and similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of forward-looking terminology such as ''may,'' ''will,'' ''should,'' ''expects,'' ''intends,'' ''plans,'' ''anticipates,'' ''believes,'' ''estimates,'' ''predicts,'' or ''potential'' or the negative of these words and phrases or similar words or phrases that are predictions of or indicate future events or trends and which do not relate solely to historical matters. You can also identify forward-looking statements by discussions of strategy, plans or intentions.
The forward-looking statements contained in this press release reflect our current views about future events and are subject to numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and changes in circumstances that may cause actual results to differ significantly from those expressed or contemplated in any forward-looking statement.
While forward-looking statements reflect our good faith projections, assumptions and expectations, they are not guarantees of future results. Furthermore, we disclaim any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect changes in underlying assumptions or factors, new information, data or methods, future events or other changes, except as required by applicable law. Factors that could cause our results to differ materially include, but are not limited to: (1) general economic conditions and multifamily and commercial real estate market conditions, (2) regulatory and or legislative changes to Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae or HUD, (3) our ability to retain and attract loan originators and other professionals, and (4) changes in federal government fiscal and monetary policies, including any constraints or cuts in federal funds allocated to HUD for loan originations.
For a further discussion of these and other factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those expressed or contemplated in any forward-looking statements, see the section entitled ''Risk Factors" in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and in our subsequent SEC filings. Such filings are available publicly on our Investor Relations web page at www.walkerdunlop.com.
Claire Harvey
Susan Weber
Vice President, Investor Relations
Senior Vice President, Marketing
Phone: 301/634-2143
Phone: 301/215-5515
SOURCE Walker & Dunlop, Inc.


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Weleda Refining Toner
This refreshing toner purifies your skin and refines the pores after cleansing.
Balanced skin begins with Biodynamic iris root extract, which regulates moisture balance at the visible surface of your skin. Mildly astringent organic wild rose leaf extract clarifies and tones your skin while organic lemon juice, high in vitamin C and mildly astringent, refines the pores. The subtle, fresh fragrance of natural essential oils revives your senses.
Your skin looks clear and refreshed and is prepared for the next step of your natural beauty regimen—with our Iris Hydrating Facial Care, Wild Rose Smoothing Facial Care or Pomegranate Firming Facial Care.
Ingredients (INCI): Water (Aqua), Alcohol, Rosa Moschata (Rosehip) Leaf
Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Distillate, Citrus Medica
Limonum (Lemon) Juice, Fragrance (Parfum)*, Limonene*, Linalool*,
Geraniol*, Citral*.
* from natural essential oils
Similar Facial Toners, Mists & Essences
Other Weleda Products
Lauren: more than a year ago
I really like this product. I have been using it in combination with other Weleda products because I am a fan of their trusted natural line. Being used to more invasive toners I initially didn't think this toner was really doing the trick. But over the past couple weeks my skin has become softer and my skin seems to be able to maintain it's own levels of oil with very little help. I will be buying this product again and would recommend it to friends.
TIP: Using a cotton ball you hardly need anything which makes this product last longer.


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I decided to abort my push up challenge yesterday. Doing push ups stiffens my upper neck muscles which in turn triggers migraine headaches, so I decided it makes no sense to continue with the challenge.
Also, I visited a headache specialist on Tuesday for the first time.
To decrease inflammation, she put cortisone injections to the muscles that attach to the base my skull . (Yikes!) I also got a prescription for preventive medication (amitriptylin) to be taken in the night. The nice thing (really a side-effect) about amitriptylin is that it knocks me out in the evening and I'm finally able to get a good nights' sleep. I also got a prescription for sumatriptan, which I take in case I notice I'm getting a migraine attack.
Now we will wait and see how my migraine corresponds to the medication.
I'm a bit disappointed I have to give up push up challenge. I could already feel I'm getting stronger in my upper body. However, it doesn't mean I'm going to give up on military push ups altogether. No, I still have more than 6 years to figure out how to get a really strong body upper body. 🙂
If I can't take a straight route to my goal, I take circuitous one!


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Learn More
Independent producers reinvest as much as 150 percent of their US cash flow in new US projects.
From medicines to affordable electricity, oil and natural gas enrich life experiences.
The Newsroom is the heart of IPAA's News and Media Center. Our mission is simple – to put a face on America's oil and natural gas industry and tell the independent producers' story in a straightforward manner.
The latest issue of IPAA Access Magazine features an explanation of the EPA's methane rule and why it inappropriately targets marginal wells, along with facts for Election 2016.
Our online media kit offers information to members of the news media interested in learning more about the Independent Petroleum Association of America, including its history, key priorities, and economic analysis.
The Independent Petroleum Association of America (IPAA) is your industry's strongest presence in the nation's capital. And these are important times. The entire oil and gas industry remains under fire from anti-development groups and misguided federal policymakers.
Access to Congressional leaders through IPAA's rapid information e-mail distribution system
Access to IPAA's award-winning professionals with decades of experience representing the industry in Washington, D.C. The IPAA staff is available to work with you on issues including FERC, tax and environmental regulations, land access and other topics.
Access to a membership of more than 10,000 through our printed directory
Industry information through a weekly e-newsletter and daily Energy in Depth (EID) national news roundup (both optional). These concise news outlets deliver the essentials on regulatory, industry and legislative events all around the country.
Legislative alerts and periodic economic reports.
Unique and high-level networking and business development opportunities.


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Fiji Time: 12:37 PM on Friday 23 February
/ Front page / Sport
Sunday, February 16, 2014
Update: 9:51PM The Cowboys are the champions of the first ever Auckland Nines, after defeating the Broncos 16-7 in the final.
The side from North Queensland went into the tournament as unfancied outsiders, but were the side that learnt the most about how to play this new form of the game as the weekend went on.
All of the teams had to find their feet in nines and while the likes of the Panthers, Eels and Warriors started the strongest, by the time the 31st and final match of the weekend was played, it was the Cowboys who were clearly the best, realising that it was about moving the ball quickly and spreading it away from the ruck to stop defences getting settled.
In the final the Cowboys Antonio Winterstein scored the first try, which came just after Ben Hunt had one ruled out for the Broncos because Sam Thaiday put a foot in touch just before delivering the pass to Hunt.
Curtis Rona scored the Cowboys second try in the last minute of the first half to make the score 10-0 at the change of ends.
Hunt finally got a try with three minutes to go by diving in under the posts, but any hope of a comeback evaporated soon after with Rona bagging his second try of the game.
Use the free Acrobat Reader to view.
FJD to VUVFJD to TOPFJD to SBDFJD to WSTFJD to PGKFJD to XPFFJD to CHFFJD to SEKFJD to LKRFJD to ZARFJD to PHPFJD to PKRFJD to NOKFJD to INRFJD to DKKFJD to CADFJD to HKDFJD to SGDFJD to JPYFJD to GBPFJD to EURFJD to CNYFJD to NZDFJD to AUDFJD to USD
VUV to FJDTOP to FJDSBD to FJDWST to FJDPGK to FJDXPF to FJDCHF to FJDSEK to FJDLKR to FJDZAR to FJDPHP to FJDPKR to FJDNOK to FJDINR to FJDDKK to FJDCAD to FJDHKD to FJDSGD to FJDJPY to FJDGBP to FJDEUR to FJDCNY to FJDNZD to FJDAUD to FJDUSD to FJD
Exchange Rate updated on 23rd, February, 2018
Copyright © 2014, Fiji Times Limited. All Rights Reserved.


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Check out the deal you can score on this popular gossip magazine through the end of the day today! If you're looking for a way to escape reality for a few moments, then consider snatching up this magazine subscription for yourself (it would also make a great gift!). Through tonight at 11:59PM EST, you can snag one of the following US Weekly offers from DiscountMags.com …
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These offers are available to new subscribers, are valid for renewals, and can be sent as a gift. To send a gift subscription, add the magazine to your cart and begin the checkout process. During checkout step 2, you will be able to change the address for each one of your subscriptions if you wish, and you will also have the option of sending an E-Card to the recipient with a gift message. The E-Card is sent by e-mail once payment has been completed; the purchase price will not be shown.


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Moments after the "Winter Sunrise" photograph (in this gallery) I hiked down the Navajo trail to one of my favorite locations, the amphitheater which holds the stunning pinnacle known as Thor's Hammer. Being in this location, at this time, under these unique conditions, was simply overwhelming. Humbling. Over the next 5 minutes while the light was still quite rich I composed several images, of which this is my favorite. In hindsite, I probably should have taken several different exposures so that details and colors in the sky could have been held better – but I really don't mind the blown-out sky in this image – it's lightness is consistent with the brightness of the snow. A few minutes after this image was taken, the sun went behind that small horizontal cloud…and the quality of the light was completely changed. Everything was bathed in cold, blue light, making the red standstone look just 'muddy'. Just as the sun peaked out from the top of that cloud, and the rich light returned to the amphitheater, the close-up picture of Thor's Hammer (elsewhere in this gallery) was taken.
All images copyright Brian Klimowski


text: Some of the more common causes of infertility are diminished ovarian reserve (older women or women with premature ovarian failure), blocked fallopian tubes (sometimes because of endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and STDs), endometriosis and polycystic ovarian disease. Low sperm count, poor sperm morphology (the shape of the sperm) and poor motility (the ability of the sperm to swim in the right direction) are also major contributors to a couple's infertility. The estimates are that overall fertility problems are 50 percent female and 50 percent male.


text: Symbolic, personal, and unique keepsake jewelry. Custom designed using your treasures preserved for a lifetime to cherish always. Family photos, special trinkets, precious mementos or anything in between can be used to create wearable keepsake art. Using jewelers grade resin to permanently seal your items and worn as earrings, necklaces, bracelets or rings. Please inquire about creating your own personal custom creation.


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Yoga Zeal Island Combo Yoga Mat
Availability: Out of stock
Please Note: All Yoga mats have an added $8 shipping charge.
Escape to tropical paradise every time you hit the yoga studio with the Island Combo Yoga Mat from Yoga Zeal. Featuring an Island print full of tropical flora and vibrant color, this mat lends visual nirvana to any yoga practice. This combo mat is made to be your hot yoga, or sweaty yoga companion, with an anti-slip rubber backing and a soft, sweat absorbing suede cloth top that acts as a yoga towel. Designed specially for hot yoga and sweaty workouts, this mat will give you an absorbent surface that will allow you to focus on your practice. Lightly spray with water at the start of your practice to engage the grip if your hands and feet are dry.
Get the deets:
- Anti-slip rubber backing.
- Soft suede cloth top, to absorb sweat.
- Instantly improve your yoga practice with this non-bunch, non-slip yoga mat
- Extra cushion reduces bruises and injuries with a responsive grip
- Eco-friendly, made from biodegradable materials.
- Printed with water based inks.
- Island print offers inspiration for the studio or at home.
- Machine Washable.
- Dimensions: 72" x 24" x 3mm
Fabric: See tag for details.
Care: See tag for details.
|Size Chart
Dimensions: 72" x 24" x 3mm
Weight: 4 lbs
|Color Correctoin
|Not available at this time...
Vagabond Goods Believer Yoga Mat
Vagabond Goods
Yoga Design Lab Sunset Travel Yoga Mat
Yoga Design Lab
Yoga Zeal Blue Lunar Combo Yoga Mat
Yoga Zeal
Manduka eKo Lite Mat


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Scrapbook Backgrounds
They cover everything from an Africa map to a winter scene - from bright and colorful to soft and muted
This means there will likely be a background to meet pretty much any of your scrapbooking needs. The latest version of Photoshop Elements is a great program for creating scrapbook pages complete with ...
The list is long so let's get going ...
Creating A Background
This is really straightforward - create a new file, go to the Create Menu, choose Backgrounds, select a Background and apply it to the document. This is how to create scrapbook backgrounds:
Create a new file by clicking File > New > Blank File. This is the new file dialogue ...
This one is named Project 1.
Drop down the Preset: dialogue and select Scrapbooking.
This will create a 12 inches by 12 inches document at a resolution of 300 pixels/inch which is good for printing. The pixels dimensions of the new file is 3600 pixels by 3600 pixels.
The Color Mode: is RGB Color and the Background Contents: is White.
So far so good, right? This image is the top right corner of the screen ...
There is one layer (the Background) and the three colored buttons above the Layers palette - the one to select is the Create button.
Which brings up this screen ...
As you can see the Artwork button is selected which gives you access to the different types of artwork.
Drop down the right menu and select Backgrounds from the different options.
This will bring up the Scrapbook Backgrounds thumbnails which you can scroll through to find the one you would like to use.
If you hover your mouse over each thumbnail then Photoshop Elements will tell you the name of that particular background - it is difficult to really see the details of the thumbnails on those small pictures.
To activate the chosen Background either double click on it or single click and the click on the Apply button below the palette.
Your computer will load the background into your file so you can get a better look at it.
If you don't like what you see it is easy to select another one - go through the list again and choose another Background - double click the thumb or select and hit the Apply button.
When you are happy with the choice click the Edit (orange) button to return to Photoshop Elements Editing mode.
This how the Layers palette looks now ...
And a completed 12" X 12" background.
Now you are ready to add elements (images and text) to your fabulous page with the great background ...
The simple way is to drag and drop images onto the background and add some Text layers. A better method is to create some clipping masks using shape layers and add the Text Layers as well.
This is an example of what can be done with either method (this was done with clipping masks). The advantage of clipping masks is that there is no cropping or image resizing necessary because the mask takes care of it all - you are going to want th learn how to do this for sure!
What you will want to do now is experiment with some backgrounds and when you are comfortable with that move onto adding different elements to the background.
The Video
Scrapbook Menus
Create Menu > Artwork
Scrapbook Resources
Click on the image (above) to check out some great Scrapbook Reources.
Enjoy This Site?
Then why not use the button below, to add us to your favorite bookmarking service?
Return to top Contact Form to ask questions, provide feedback or comments. Questions are good - so are comments - or requests!
Return To digital Scrapbooking from Scrapbook Backgrounds


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MTNOPS Introduces new GPS technology
21 Nov, 2008
Hailey, ID – November 21, 2008 – MTNOPS is proud to introduce the latest addition to its technological arsenal –GPS integration. Now you can ride with a GPS unit or GPS enabled cel phone that outputs a .gpx file and view and share your day on the hill in a new way. According to technology developer JP Stoermer, "Making a GPS map of your riding is as simple as uploading an image. Export a .gpx file, upload and your map is created. This is the first step in MTNOPS GPS/rider integration."
When activated, consumer GPS units record a location every second. This second by second account of your position tells you where you went, when you stopped, for how long, and how much vertical you covered. "This technology has the potential to change the way riders look at and record their riding experiences. I know it will change the way that I snowboard forever. Now I can find all of those spots that I happen across when riding a new hill," says Mark Sullivan, MTNOPS CEO.
Compatible units output .gpx universal GPS file format and are available in price ranges from $50 and up. After riding, simply download the file created by the unit to your computer and the MTNOPS software does the rest.
"I have been working with GPS technology for years as an avid backcountry rider and computer programmer. I am excited to make this technology more user friendly and useful to a wider range of people," continues Stoermer.
The extensive applications for this new technology drastically simplifies the GPS file download process, while creating a new way for people to share their adventures. Look for more applications of this technology licensed through MTNOPS parent company, Tiger Utility.
With its official launch in October 2008, MTNOPS is the flagship web site platform of the innovative web technology of Tiger Utility LLC. Tiger Utility LLC will license its web technology to other companies in a variety of different industries. Located temporarily in Hailey, Idaho, MTNOPS also produces its own mountain gear that is proudly made in the USA.
Find out more at http://mtnops.com/gpsjournal
About the author
Related Posts
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MTNOPS 2009-2010 Merican Jacket
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MTNOPS: Tailgate Brighton
Eric Pearson joins MTNOPS Team
Danny Kass Pro Model Late Release by Union Binding Company
East Coast: eesa rad party
1 Comment
November 22, 2008
COOL! I like this… I have actually thought about getting a gps just to do some cool tracking and mapping of my mountain. I guess its a matter of me being lazy and not wanting to spend money right now 🙂
*id rather buy the rome artifact 150 and ride contraband bindings 🙂


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boyfriend Archive
Drug Companies War Like High School Boyfriends…Posted on February 10, 2015Drug companies are a bit like high school boyfriends. They're much more concerned with getting inside you than being effective once they're in there.
Grandma Makes A Good PointPosted on January 21, 2015I was playing animal crossing while laying next to my Grandma and I usually complain a lot our loud and I go "gosh I need to donate more fishes […]
"I Might Have To Give Them Extra Credit…Cuz They Suck"Posted on January 16, 2015My boyfriend is sitting next to me grading finals…I've decided to write down all of the comments he mumbles to himself before he realizes what I'm doing.
Reasons To Have A Vulcan BoyfriendPosted on January 5, 2015
Friend-Zoned Phil MemePosted on October 3, 2011Best of the Friend Zone Phil Meme


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GILLETTE, Wyo.—State and local officials say they are trying to recover more than $700,000 in taxes from a bankrupt company that sought to use microbes to extract a renewable supply of natural gas from northeast Wyoming's Powder River Basin.
Golden, Colo.-based Luca Technologies disputes the tax bills. Last spring, the company presented its case before Wyoming's state Board of Equalization, which hears tax disputes in the state. The company has been awaiting a decision.
Luca used a process called methane farming that pumped nutrients underground to encourage the growth and reproduction of microbes naturally present in shallow coal seams. The microbes eat the coal and produce methane gas.
The company said the process restored a low level of production from otherwise depleted coal-bed methane wells in the Powder River Basin.
Even so, weak gas prices hurt Luca. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in July, the Casper Star-Tribune reports ( http://bit.ly/1gaS35z).
Now, the Wyoming Department of Revenue seeks $309,720.60 in severance taxes and interest from Luca on production dating back to 2007.
Wyoming imposes severance taxes on companies that extract minerals, oil or gas. Severance tax revenues benefit Wyoming's cities, towns, counties, roads and water projects.
Campbell County officials, meanwhile, say Luca and a subsidiary owe the county almost $430,000 in personal property and ad valorem taxes.
Luca owes the county $8,377.42 for 2013 personal property and ad valorem taxes due Sept. 1. Luca subsidiary Patriot Energy Resources owes $420,496.43 for 2009 and 2010 ad valorem taxes, according to Campbell County officials.
The Wyoming Department of Audit told Luca last year it audited the company's tax returns for 2007 through 2009 and found a difference in what was paid and what was owed.
Luca calculated the severance tax using the spot or shortest-term price for natural gas, but the Department of Audit determined the company should have used a long-term contract price that was higher than the spot price, said Craig Grenvik, the Department of Revenue's Mineral Tax Division administrator.
Dan Noble, director of the Revenue Department, said the audit didn't consider ad valorem taxes, but "if you underpaid the tax on the severance side, you also underpaid on the local level."
Luca attorney Matt Micheli, who is among three employees still with the company, said the long-term contract was actually a hedge, or contract that should be treated more like an insurance policy on the wells in Campbell County.
"Patriot is absolutely convinced that it is not required to pay severance and ad valorem taxes on a financial hedge," he said by email. "The State of Wyoming has never required producers to pay taxes on a hedged value."
Information from: Casper (Wyo.) Star-Tribune, http://www.trib.com


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Pilgrimage to Lough Derg
Discussion in 'Ireland' started by Adoremus, Jun 3, 2015.
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