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20 years
of Activism
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Activities and Projects
Certain Timberwatch activities and projects, which include the monitoring of relevant political governance and timber industry behaviour are ongoing, while others, such as our research projects and community workshops, are linked to specific issues, events or target dates.
Raising civil society and government awareness of the actual and potential negative social, economic and environmental impacts of large scale tree plantations and their associated industrial processing is an over-arching objective which requires sustained intensive effort and the committed support and involvement of members, supporters and partners.
Our latest research project was supported by the Siemenpuu Foundation in Finland, and involved a case study that investigated the effects of the establishment of tree plantation carbon sinks in southern Tanzania, focussing mainly on a plantation project of Norwegian-owned company, Green Resources Ltd, at Idete in southern Tanzania. The company planned to obtain 400 000 CDM carbon credits through the planting of nearly 6500 hectares of alien gum and pine tree plantations, and to sell them to the Norwegian government for use as offsets against carbon emissions in Norway.
The research project began with the production of a preliminary report that was completed in time for the United Nations Climate Change meetings held in Copenhagen from 7th - 18th December 2009. During 2010 there was further research, including two field trips to visit the plantation project at Idete. This work resulted in a comprehensive report that also examined the implications of broader issues such as the carbon market, global timber consumption trends, and possible alternative approaches to halting climate change.
The final report was published in March 2011.
The preliminary report by Blessing Karumbidza and Wally Menne can be accessed HERE.
From 2007 till the end of 2013, Timberwatch served as the NGO focal point in Africa for the Global Forest Coalition (GFC), but has now handed over to NAPE (The National Association of Professional Environmentalists) in Uganda. Timberwatch has co-operated with GFC in the production of relevant research reports since 2002.
The report "Life as Commerce - Certification in South Africa" launched in November 2008, can be downloaded HERE.
GFC's Strategic Approach
The main strategic approach of the Global Forest Coalition is to help build the capacity of NGOs, forest dependent local communities and Indigenous Peoples´ Organisations (IPOs) to be able to monitor and to actively influence international forest policy processes as well as support national initiatives to implement the outcomes of international forest policy processes.
A second, complementary strategy is to facilitate joint advocacy campaigns by its members, targeting international forest policy processes to ensure that they promote socially just and ecologically appropriate forest policies that respect the rights and needs of Indigenous Peoples and other forest dependent communities.
For more information about the membership, objectives and projects of the Global Forest Coalition, visit their website by clicking the logo
Timberwatch has had a long and fruitful association with the World Rainforest Movement (WRM), an organisation that has been a supportive partner of Timberwatch since June 1998 when a Timberwatch member participated at the first International Plantations Campaign meeting in Montivideo, Uruguay, where the WRM is based.
In 2005 WRM published an important report A Study of the Social and Economic Impacts of Industrial Tree Plantations in the KwaZulu - Natal Province of South Africa by Blessing Karumbidza, and this was followed by
Swaziland: The myth of sustainable timber plantations by Wally Menne and Ricardo Carrere in March 2007.
WRM focusses on documenting the negative impacts of monoculture tree plantations, and using the accumulated information to produce user friendly educational material in a number of languages. See the recent WRM briefing Timber Plantations in Southern Africa
For more information about the objectives, projects and information resources of the World Rainforest Movement, visit their website by clicking this logo
Eastern Cape Workshop on Plantations and Pulp Mills
On Saturday 14th February 2009 a workshop was held in East London with assistance from the WESSA Border-Kei Region office who also provided the meeting venue. Participants came from across the Eastern Cape, representing local and national government entities, industry, NGOs, and local communities.
The workshop generated much interest in issues around the topics discussed (see notice below), and some participants expressed an interest in becoming members of Timberwatch and in holding follow-up meetings in the future with a view to establishing a local Timberwatch group.
This workshop was a part of a campaign supported by the Grassroots Foundation in Germany, to increase awareness of the impacts of pulp mills and plantations in South Africa.
For more information about the Plantations and Pulp Mills awareness campaign go HERE
To download the slideshow presentations made at the workshop in pdf format, and to see the full workshop report click HERE


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Featured Posts
I unpacked some of my gear to get ready for bed. We had been asked to bring our own sleeping bags for our bunks. They had to be able to withstand temperatures of -20C. I rolled out my bag and studied my coffin-size bunk, figuring that if and when the seas did get rough, this was probably the last place I'd want to be.
After all the crazy ups and downs from my last entry, I finally arrived at the port in Ushuaia and immediately found my crew and my bags! It felt like absolute glory. I was exactly where I needed to be, on time with a newfound appreciation for the adventure ahead.
Fish tacos are one of my favorite meals to prepare because you can stretch a little bit of fish into a much bigger meal, while still letting the true flavor of the fish shine. The key to making great fish tacos are fresh fish, quality produce and this secret sauce.
Recent Updates
Fishpeople, a film by Keith Malloy is now available on iTunes!
Fishpeople tells the stories of six different lives, all transformed by the sea. I've been a huge fan of Keith's work for a really long time, so it came as a great surprise and honor when he asked me to be a part of this film.
After touring throughout the US and world, the full film is now available on iTunes!

subset: commoncrawl


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Welcome to the North Coast Pistol League Web Site
A club for those who who enjoy handgun shooting sports, it's challenges, and the skills that can be learned and practiced in friendly competition. Matches are conducted at the Long Prairie Gun and Archery Club on Highway 299, approximately 12 miles east of Highyway 101. Matches are usually held on the 4th Sunday of the month during the warmer months. Members can also participate in matches at other clubs as well as in sectional, regional, or national USPSA competitions.
In 2015 we are starting out 20th season. We are affiliated with the United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA) and the International Practical Shooters Confederation (IPSC).
Match Fees
Members - $20
Non-Members - $25


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Our goal is to provide the best value, highest quality and safest uniform to our Scouting families. Boy Scouts of America's National Supply Group diligently seeks manufacturers in the United States and abroad.
In our selection process for manufacturers, we review both U.S. and international companies because in recent years, the apparel industry has moved production almost entirely offshore. BSA had been doing uniform business with one factory in Puerto Rico that subsequently went out of business, forcing us to seek production overseas. We have now partnered with some of the finest factories in the world.
Shifting to a global sourcing strategy has many benefits. It affords us the opportunity to find superior technology, better fabrications, and great quality at advantageous pricing.
This move has allowed us to not raise the price of basic uniform pants and shirts in the past five years. Uniform pricing is one of the most frequent concerns we hear about from our members (Scout Shop customers) and we are very conscious of the cost to families who want to outfit their sons properly.
Enter any store in America today, and it's readily apparent that we live in a global marketplace.
Q1. Why did you source uniforms off shore?
A1. As stated above, domestic suppliers of apparel are almost nonexistent. U.S vendors have also moved their production to other countries. They may have US representatives, but they are also partnering with offshore factories. BSA moved to global sourcing to get superior quality, the latest technology and advantageous pricing.
Q2. Who was your domestic clothing supplier? Where are they? What is their reaction?
A2. Our primary supplier moved production of (manufactured) uniforms to Puerto Rico as a cost-cutting measure, yet still had to shut their doors. BSA has partnered with a group of great factories in Bangladesh and China that are also working with key retailers. These factories have proven to not only meet all required compliances, but are proud to partner with the BSA.
Q3. Have US companies moved their production because they cannot compete, and cannot get people to work as cheaply as in Asia or Central America?
A3. It's not just the cost of labor, but it's also modern manufacturing equipment that provides economy. To be blunt, global sourcing allows our uniforms to be made with the latest technology, achieving higher quality while controlling costs. In addition, these manufacturing facilities are also very concerned about the environment and have some of the most advanced effluent treatment plants in the world. BSA is proud to partner with these mills and factories in water treatment and protecting our environment.
It is important to note that 33% of BSA's total global business is done through U.S. based importers. Major companies who have been doing business with BSA, and due to ever changing manufacturing needs have also moved much of their business off shore. For example, one of our leading emblem manufacturers has been doing business with BSA for 90 years, and currently produces 98% of their emblems in China vs. 2% in the U.S. Another 12 year BSA emblem sourcing partner has moved 90% of their production into China; with 7% being produced in Mexico, and the remaining 3% in the U.S. due to global manufacturing shifts.
Q4. Will the price of Scout uniforms go down as a result of this shift?
A4. We had not increased the price of Scout uniforms for five years, absorbing the rising costs in our operation. We feel our uniforms are very competitively and fairly priced. We are charging slightly more for the highly technical product such as our new Micro Polyester Uniform. With a focused factory base we are able to maintain costs and offer superior product. We are meaningful to the factory, and BSA is meaningful to their business.
Q5. Will the quality of uniforms be compromised?
A5. In addition to successfully maintaining our pricing, the quality of the uniforms has improved with more features and benefits than ever before. State-of-the-art equipment used in our global factories will produce merchandise with the highest quality offered anywhere in the market. Our strategy is to research and develop the best, most cost-effective product for our Scouts. We demand that BSA product be nothing less than the most compelling in the market.


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…is fun.
New business cards printed by CatPrint on #118 cotton stock and some fun fun MT paper tape from PrettyTape on Etsy.
I kind of want to get giant ILYM stickers to sneak around Atlanta. Someday, someday.
…is fun.
New business cards printed by CatPrint on #118 cotton stock and some fun fun MT paper tape from PrettyTape on Etsy.
I kind of want to get giant ILYM stickers to sneak around Atlanta. Someday, someday.
Two images from yesterday's two-part engagement shoot at Serenbe with the very gorgeous Katie and Nate.
More to come, but until then, happy happy love day!
A few shots from today's engagement shoot at Turner Field with Charly and Randy. 100% hilarious, 100% fun, 100% awesome.
Much more to come, but I couldn't resist sharing a few!
I get lost. A lot. My sense of direction is worse than, well, than a blind rat. (Let's subtract their spatial memory, mkay?) I have lost faith in Google Maps after it led me to get LOST IN THE PROJECTS AT 1AM. There were people. Crowding the 4Runner. At stop lights. I was crying. After frantic calls to JP, he finally directed me out of there. I had somehow gotten twenty miles off course, in what seemed like about 2.2 seconds.
Enter a Christmas gift, and a virtual life-saver.
Garmin nüvi, product image from Amazon
Running at just over $100 on Amazon right now, it's a great tool to have. GPS, traffic, bluetooth, no monthly fee shenanigans, and mounts to my window without any hassle or adhesives. There are a whole slew of options, price ranges, extra features (custom routes, etc.), on some of the upper models, but this does the trick. It has been incredibly accurate, and on several occasions we've ignored it's traffic suggestions… only to get stuck in some horrid jams.
As a photographer and bidness lady, it's important for me to not only get to locations, but also to be able to get home from locations, you know, without GETTING LOST IN THE PROJECTS. I hadn't ever thought about branching out from my Google Maps printouts (that fail me at least 50% of the time), but I'm so glad that JP thought of this. Also, saves money on printer paper, ink, and less clutter in my car. Win-win. (I admit, I still do double-check everything on Google Maps, but just as a brief glance… just in case.)
If you are as bad at navigation as I am, get thee a GPS, and rejoice in how affordable they can be!
In early December, Pierson and I were surprised with some beautiful light flurries during her portrait session. It was very exciting given that Atlanta rarely gets much snow. (Little did we know that we'd have a Snowpocalypse on Christmas AND this past week. Woops!) It was great fun running around with the snow whirling around us, as well as just talking and laughing! Hooray for Pierson and such a fun time.


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Bates Technical College Foundation will host a fundraiser, Bates Sizzles, from 5:30 to 9 p.m Thursday, April 19, at the Pacific Grill Events Center, 1530 Pacific Ave., Tacoma.
Chef Gordon Naccarato will showcase Pacific Grill's appetizers, including cheeseburger sliders, "meat candy," and an elegant signature cocktail. There will also be a silent auction and a wine ring toss that features a chance to win bottles of wine.
Funds raised assist students and programs with scholarships, mini-grants and more. At Bates, all students are eligible to apply for the foundation's general scholarships, and others who fit certain criteria can apply for a variety of program-specific scholarships
Tickets to Bates Sizzles are $60 each, or two for $100. Call 253.680.7160 or visit http://www.bates.ctc.edu/Sizzles to reserve tickets and learn more about the event.


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Fire Mike Brown!!!!!!
View Single Post
NBA sixth man of the year
Join Date: Sep 2006
Posts: 6,759
Re: Fire Mike Brown!!!!!!
Originally Posted by
Yeah but you have to admit DK,
we expected this offense to be a struggle. We talked about it before. Secondly, its a new roster that was put together. two new players on the most important positions of basketball. The PG and C.
By default they'll eventually come together just because they're a good team.
Now I know in the past I've had the back of Mike Brown. Im starting to soften my stance a little bit. I think it wouldn't do us any harm if after a while we can find a replacement first, and then relieve Mike Brown of his duties. But if we fire him now, we got Eddie Jordan as head coach... Not sure he's much better.
Sure, I expected the offense to struggle somewhat but this is way beyond comprehension......I don't this what they are doing right now will ever work, Brown is clearly in way over his head. They are not positioning players in the spots to make them successful, To create a successful offense it is essential that you get the ball to the right guys in the right places to score. As I said before, having Pau so far away from the basket is idiotic, you can run the same style of offense but tweak it to make it work. Having Nash walk the ball up, just as stupid. Do I want Eddie Jordan as head coach....Hell No!!!!
There are a bunch of experienced successful NBA coaches who would LOVE to have the job....what better team to coach??? If we want to make a change we won't even need to search, they'll be calling us!!!
Yes Lakerfreak you too will wake up and realize that Mike Brown is not a real basketball coach....I've been telling you as much from day 1. I will welcome your full awakening, free of your rose colored glasses
You actually THINK the Center position is so important in the NBA today????
I argued with several people that the Center position in the NBA is at it's weakest point by far in at least 40 years, and that the addition of the 3 point line is to blame. People argued with me.....but guess what? The NBA itself agreed with me 100% and have REMOVED the Center position from the All-Star ballot....yes REMOVED IT COMPLETELY!!!!!
Do you actually think it is hard to add a PG and Center to an offense
NO!!! Having a quality experienced center and PG make things a hell of a lot easier, the PG runs the offense and creates, the C is going to be close to the basket and not all over the place.....those are actually the easiest positions to coach. No excuses, Dallas had way more new players and was missing their 2 biggest guys in Dirk and Kaman....no excuse at all for losing. Carlisle is a good coach but not a great one.......we have the worst coach in the NBA....even worse than VDN.
We should have fired MB right after last season.
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Bitcoin ATM, After dumping the penny last year, Canada is taking another step towards the fiscal future with the launch of the world's first publicly-accessible Bitcoin ATM next Tuesday. As Wired reports, the landmark machine will be installed outside of a coffee house in downtown Vancouver, allowing members of the public to exchange their Canadian Dollars for Bitcoins, or vice versa.
Machines that exchange physical currency for Bitcoins have made quite a few appearances at industry shows and conferences, and there's more than one company attempting to put Bitcoin ATMs in public places. The machine to be installed in Vancouver this week comes from Nevada-based Robocoin. To comply with Canadian law, the machine will check your identity using palm prints, photographs, and ID verification, and will only allow for a maximum of CAD$3,000 (around $2,700) worth of transactions per user per day.
Bitcoiniacs, the company responsible for bringing the ATM to Vancouver, has purchased five of Robocoin's machines and hopes to launch the rest in "other locations throughout Canada" soon. Unlike the one-day-only appearance of a another ATM at a San Diego hotel, all of Bitcoiniacs' machines are intended to be permanent.


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text: Peter Seebach wrote: > U pkgsrc/print/teTeX-sharesrc/gnu/dist/toolchain/texinfo/dir.info-template > U pkgsrc/print/teTeX-sharesrc/gnu/dist/toolchain/texinfo/gen-info-dir > U pkgsrc/print/teTeX-sharesrc/gnu/dist/toolchain/texinfo/gpl.texinfo > U pkgsrc/print/teTeX-sharesrc/gnu/dist/toolchain/texinfo/lgpl.texinfo Please nuke (rm -rf) pkgsrc/print/teTeX-sharesrc and cvs update again. That should fix this problem. It is not necessary to run the script against pkgsrc. Neither against xsrc, or othersrc. > I'm wondering if perhaps there is something horribly wrong happening here. Nothing to worry, the script just incorrectly replaces local CVS/Repository contents for teTeX-sharesrc (actually, for .*sharesrc). Shouldn't cause any other problem. Jaromir -- Jaromir Dolecek <firstname.lastname@example.com> http://www.NetBSD.org/ -=- We should be mindful of the potential goal, but as the tantric -=- -=- Buddhist masters say, ``You may notice during meditation that you -=- -=- sometimes levitate or glow. Do not let this distract you.'' -=-


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One of the common questions we get here at MIDIDrumFiles.com is regarding MIDI latency and how to correct it. This article explores what MIDI latency is, and what you can do about reducing its effects in your musical productions.
But before going into the remedies of the latency problem, let's talk about what it is. Latency is the lag time between when any MIDI note is initially triggered to the time the sound actually exits the speakers. Latency is caused by the electronic processing needed to construct and send out each sound. There are many factors that contribute to the latency time in any given musical system.
Some of the devices that can affect latency time are: processor speed, RAM, sound cards, MIDI interfaces, USB interfaces, serial port interfaces, software program overhead drain, MIDI effects software, or MIDI player program. Essentially, any processing that needs to be done to the MIDI information before it sends out to the speaker will contribute to latency.
So then, what can you do about it? If you are experiencing MIDI latency problems, there are several steps you can take to combat the problem. The first and cheapest option to try is to examine the software you are using. Many software synths and MIDI sequencers actually have latency setting built into the program. This feature will allow you to set the latency time as low as you can. Setting the latency time too high will cause an annoying delay in the sound output. But too low of a setting and your computer will clip and stutter as the processor and software tries to keep up with the high demand. It's your job to find that perfect balance for your particular setup.
If latency settings are not available to you however, start looking into upgrading your equipment. Or at least identifying the hardware you have that could be causing the problems. A better MIDI interface and sound card could do wonders. I've also read that USB interfaces are far less reliable than some other types of interfaces when it comes to latency. If you would like some more in-depth information on the specs of various equipment, take a look at these two articles by Martin Walker….. "The Truth About Latency". I found them to be very helpful and informative.
As these articles point out, most of the time the latency delay time is not nearly as big of a factor in producing MIDI music as is the consistency of that delay. Some hardware and MIDI interfaces perform more consistently than others. And according to experts, this is the bigger issue.
Anytime you are dealing with computer or software generated music you will have to deal with latency. There's no way to get around that. It is possible however, to bring that latency time down to where you cannot detect it with the human ear. A little investigation work into your individual system's components will go a long way towards giving you the results you desire.


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Hear the Conversation 20:37 – 11.8 mb mp3
"I was the youngest of five kids so I got beat up all the time," jokes Mateen Cleaves. "And I always played sports with older kids, which I think helped me learn how to lead. But I think you mostly have to be a born leader, and I was fortunate to be born that way."
Cleaves joins fellow Spartan Dawgs Tim Bograkos, Todd "T.J." Duckett, Andre Hutson and Ryan Van Dyke for the latest Spartan Dawgs podcast.
The Dawgs talk about the lack of competitive fire they see in many of the young players they see today. And they discuss the parallels between athletics and the music industry.
"All athletes think they can rap, and all rappers think they can play sports," jokes Cleaves. "But really the sports and music industries are one big community."
And Cleaves talks about his transition into television work and how the teamwork involved in producing quality television is similar to the teamwork that leads athletic teams to championships.
Cleaves and the Dawgs talk about the difference between a "junior college work ethic and a Division 1 work ethic" and Mateen says he feels blessed and plans to thoroughly enjoy every day of his life.
Cleaves fills in the Dawgs on his work with Flint-born rapper John Connor and tells them that "he performs like we played: he leaves it all on the stage."


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It's been quiet here this week because I've been on jury duty; I showed up for jury selection on Monday, was put onto a jury, and spent the next two days at a criminal trial.
It was far more interesting that I thought it would be; it was a pretty straightforward drug possession case, but even so, it raised some interesting issues about searches and evidence that took us some time to go through before we reached a verdict. Watching how the lawyers laid out their cases was also quite fascinating (though not as fast paced as what you'd see on TV!).
But I don't really want to talk about the case. It was that first day, the jury selection day, that was interesting and disturbing.
For those who've never been, here's what happens: you show up downtown in a kind of jury holding room. You're then broken up into panels (they were all 60 people each) and sent off to a courtroom, where jury selection takes place before a judge and the lawyers in the case. In our case, we were marched down the street to the criminal court building and into a courtroom, where the judge, a country prosecutor, and a defense lawyer awaited.
The next thing that happens is a process in which the judge and each lawyer in turn gets to talk to the prospective jurors about points of law relevant to the case, and ask questions to determine who understands and can apply the law – and, of course, who might be more or less sympathetic to each of their sides in the case. The judge can reject jurors who cannot understand or apply the law, and then each lawyer can reject a certain number of jurors (10) for any reason at all (in other words, they think that juror might not be open to their arguments).
And that's when the games began. Most people do not want to sit on a jury, and I was no different. Being away for a couple of days was quite disruptive (and this was a very short trial). Everybody has other things they want to do.
And that's fine, but it was amazing to me how many people there started spouting rationales that clearly were designed to get out of jury service. "I couldn't possibly convict someone based on proof beyond a reasonable doubt – it would have to be absolute proof." Well, by that standard, nobody's even getting convicted. "If a police officer testified, I would believe him no matter what!" You couldn't evaluate what was being said? I have great respect for police, but let's face it, like any other group of human beings, some are not credible.
The judge – a cranky guy who was substituting for the regular judge that day – was having none of it. The people saying this stuff got brought up, one by one, to discuss it with him.
Now, there are people who legitimately hold those views. It was painfully obvious that most of these folks were not among them. One woman kept saying, "I can't be impartial!" "Why not?" "I can't be!" "Why not?" "I just can't!"
The worst was a 20-something woman who approached the bench, and after some muttered conversation we couldn't hear in the back of the room, was sent away by the judge with a quite audible dismissal – "Just go be seated!" and came back to where we were sitting with a smirk on her face. Ha ha, I got out of it!
And while we all would have liked to have gotten out of it, the reality is that if we want to live in a country where we get a trial by a jury of our peers – whether in a criminal or civil case – somebody's got to sit on those juries. If not us, then who?
It's one thing to be honest about your biases. It's fine to honestly say, "I do not understand what that law you're describing means." But to sit and just spout crap to get out of it marks you as somebody who doesn't deserve the benefits of our system of justice.
You can't give up a few days of your life? Go find a nice dictatorship where, if you run afoul of the law, you'll be tossed in prison without the niceties of a trial. It is apparently what you prefer.
Perhaps someday Ms. Smirk-a-lot will find herself or a family member in court, hoping for sympathetic people to sit on the jury, and watching them weasel out of it.
This also means, of course, that those of us who are willing to do our part will on average have to do it more often. A friend mentioned to me that Suffolk County in Massachusetts (Boston) is about to run out of jurors, which means that people will be called more often than every three years (which was how it worked when I lived there). The reward for being a good citizen is, apparently, having to be a better citizen and give up more of your time.
Sixty people were brought into the room in order to get 12 jurors and alternate. The last person picked was number 43. At the start of the proceeding, the judge mentioned that years ago, it only took a panel of 40 to assemble a jury.
That's a depressing statement about the state of civic responsibility in our society.


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Liberty Stadium, Swansea
April 13, 2014, 16:07 GMT
While Man City and Liverpool face each other, in what might be a title-decider, it is possible that if permutations pan out their way, Chelsea could be the big winner of Super Sunday, 13th April. The Blues are riding high after their mid-week comeback against PSG in the Champions League quarterfinals but domestically, they have terrible away form, having won none out of their last three on the road (having scored only one goal). As for the Swans, it isn't much better, with only one win in their last 8 matches in the Premier League.
Team News and Tactical Brief
There is no notable absentee (certainly not to the standard of the opposition's) from the Swansea squad, with only Kyle Bartley's hamstring problem still persisting. Monk however, looks to shuffle his lineup from the on that went down 1-0 to Hull last weekend. Jose Canas, Pablo Hernandez and Nathan Dyer look to get back in to the starting XI while Michu faces a very high chance of being dropped.
Though Rangel was publicly berated by his manager for his performance v Hull, he looks likely to continue in the starting XI, with no apt replacement jumping out. Consequently, the back 5 will be retained – Vorm in goal, shielded by Rangel, Chico Flores, Williams and Ben Davies. In midfield, Jonjo Shelvey's understanding with Britton does not seem to be there yet, and hence, the ex-Liverpool man could be relegated to the bench in favour of the more defensive Jose Canas. Ahead of them, Michu cuts a frustrating figure after his lengthy lay-off and Jonathan de Guzman seems a fish out of water, played out wide. As a result, de Guzman could be moved centrally while Pablo Hernandez slots into the right wing position. Routledge and Bony should be expected to keep their positions.
In possession, Swansea tend to transition into a 2-4-4 from their 4-2-3-1 with their fullbacks pushing up high to attack, which could be exploited by Chelsea's high-press system and speedy players who prefer quick, direct, attacks.
Probable starting line up (4-2-3-1): Vorm; Rangel, Chico, Williams, Davies; Canas, Britton; Hernandez, de Guzman, Routledge; Bony.
The victory against PSG midweek was no doubt, sweet for Chelsea, but there might yet be a tinge of bitter to it, coming in the form of Eden Hazard's calf injury, which could see him spend upto 2 weeks on the sidelines. He did not seem in extreme pain and was able to walk off the field by himself, so it seems the substitution was precautionary and was in good measure. Though his influence had dwindled in the last couple of weeks, he still is perhaps, Chelsea's biggest game-changer at the moment. The Belgian scored the only goal of the game on Boxing Day, when the two sides met at Stamford Bridge.
After three dismal performances vs Villa, PSG and Palace, the Chelsea defence is looking solid again, managing to keep a cleansheet vs PSG midweek and generally, looking in control. Hence, the reliable back 5 of Cech, Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry and Azpilicueta can be expected. Azpilicueta has been Chelsea's most reliable and most consistent player this season – in a position that he isn't used to – and this is vital, considering the majority of Swansea's attacks tend to come from the right side. Eligible again, Nemanja Matic will surely start, though his partner is up for contention. Both of Wednesday's starters could be rested, and Jose could choose to go with Ramires. Even without Hazard, it is safe to say Chelsea have sufficient replacements in attacking midfield. January signing Mohamed Salah has got two goals and two assists in his last three Premier League games and though his introduction has been slow and gradual, he looks set to torment Premier League defenders with his pace and nimble feet. Following his impressive recent goalscoring run, Schurrle will take up his more-natural left wing place in Hazard's absence, as he did midweek. The central position is between Willian – who scored a beautiful dink from there last weekend – and Oscar. Up front, Eto'o looks to start again, though Demba Ba might be wondering if he would have a shout-in after his heroics vs PSG.
Chelsea tend to press high and hard, and do not allow the opposition to hold too much of the ball in their half. Especially with Nemanja Matic, the London side now tend to intercept the ball in midfield and immediately turn on the offence, with speedy-gifted midfielders able to capitalize on even just a bit of space behind the defence.
Possible starting lineup (4-2-3-1): Cech; Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Azpilicueta; Matic, Ramires; Salah, Oscar, Schurrle; Eto'o.
Player to watch out for:
Nemanja Matic (Chelsea)
The Serb has been arguably the signing of the January window, having not only seamlessly slotted back into life in England, but actually becoming the very spine of this new, young Chelsea side. 25 years of age and of considerable experience now, Matic has been extremely consistent since his return to the Bridge. The quintessential defensive midfielder – one which Chelsea were lacking previously -, Matic can cover ground, is a great ball-snatcher, has a giant's frame (drawing comparisons to Yaya Toure) and does have a very good attacking side to him too. He provided a brilliant ball over the Arsenal defence to set up Mohamed Salah for his goal and vs Stoke, dribbled all the way to the byline before cutting back precisely to Salah, again, who was on scene to finish. Having Matic behind them to tie loose ends and clean up ensures more expression of creativity from Chelsea's more attacking players. Matic's worst performance in a Chelsea shirt so far, has coincided with perhaps Chelsea's worst performance of the season, which only underlines his significance to this side. He will again look to boss the middle of the park, coming up against players like Leon Britton, who can hold on to the ball and pass around well.
Swansea 0-1 Chelsea
Chelsea's away form isn't spectacular but unlike Villa or Palace, Swansea are a bit more open, more free-flowing in their football which allows Chelsea to run in behind their players, doing what they do best. Chelsea will go into the match already in possession of knowledge of the result at Anfield, but regardless of that, the Blues must ensure they win every single one of their games hereon, if they want to remain in the title race til the very end.


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How can I delete a self-hosted blog from my wordpress.com account that does not exist anymore? The site hasn't been running wordpress for a long time, and my hosting expires in four days anyway.
Visual representation in case the problem isn't clear: http://imgur.com/a/WjAKk
The blog I need help with is www.programmingponies.com.


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I have downloaded a fresh copy of Lucene and have installed it. I have also created the index out of it and currently using it for search. Currently, it returns list of retrieved results based on a given query.
I have two questions:
1. Currently Lucene results don't show me the relevance scores when I enter the query and press the ENTER key. Is there any way to see the relevance scores in search results of Lucene?
2. Can I save the search results along with the relevance score to a text file after entering the query?


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An in-depth review of the process to purchase tax liens is offered from the Tax Lien Investing website.
Mobile, Alabama (PRWEB) September 10, 2012
Tax lien investing might be unfamiliar to the average person, but to real estate agents that know the profits that can be made it is very familiar. Investing in tax liens is something that any person can do if the right steps are taken. The new Tax Lien Investing website has launched to help real estate agents not familiar with tax liens to get started purchasing liens quickly. This informative website includes streaming videos, e-book downloads and a complete online training center. The site was put together by real estate legend Ted Thomas to introduce more people to the wealth that can be created by buying tax liens and tax deeds as guaranteed government investments. More information can be found at this link.
While the real estate market in some states is stagnant, there are many states where real estate investors and agents are receiving high returns. States like Ohio, Florida, Texas, California and Tennessee all support the tax lien investing industry as well as many others. A tax lien is unlike a foreclosure sale and is often confused with the foreclosure process.
Tax liens, as explained at the Tax Lien Investing website, are government backed securities that are purchased as a first place guarantee. A bank typically owns a foreclosure and a deed must be obtained through a lengthy process. The easy to use tax lien investing and tax deed information now available is one way that real estate agents and investors can use to increase income.
Most U.S. states have suffered from the recent economic downturn that currently has no improvement in sight for many homeowners. A rise in delinquent taxes has been reported by nearly every state since the start of the recession in 2008. The tax lien and tax deed investing opportunities involve purchasing these tax delinquencies and receiving a guaranteed return on investment. Real estate investors with stock market funds or lower interest securities could find that tax lien investing could produce returns of 15 to 40 percent.
Real estate expert, Ted Thomas, explains on the Tax Lien Investing website that there is no recession in tax lien or tax deed investing. The purchases are fully insured by federal, state and local governments and are paid out when delinquent tax owners settle the tax. Ted also explains that if a homeowner does not pay the tax that the deed can be obtained to the property. This is one way that real estate agents are able to purchase homes for pennies on the dollar to resell, rent or flip.
The historically low interest rates for home loans, automobile loans and checking account interest are not expected to rise in the next few quarters in the current economy. Investors that are searching for ways to earn more investment income could benefit from learning tax lien investing and tax deed purchasing. An in-depth review of the process to purchase tax liens is offered from the Tax Lien Investing website.
About Tax Lien Investing website
Ted Thomas started his tax lien investing career over 25 years ago and is now one of the leading authorities on the subject. This real estate expert has now launched his Tax Lien Investing website to help realtors, real estate agents, investors and others to purchase tax liens as investments. As an instructor, Ted Thomas has presented thousands of seminars about tax lien investing around the world. As real estate investor, Ted owns hundreds of properties and many were purchased using the same techniques now available on the Tax Lien Investing website.


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2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Capacity: 8
Photo Gallery
Property Description
Bedrooms: 2. Bathrooms: 2
Enjoy a 2400 sq. ft. cabin with all the comforts of home. With a simple phone call the Summit Shuttle will pick you up at the door – for free! Very comfortable with no crowds! The cabin has a full sized kitchen with everything you'll need! Other amenities are 2 Satellite TV's, DVD player, Xbox with DVD and lots of games, CD player, books, magazines, children/adult games, foosball table, ping pong table, washer/dryer and of course a cozy fireplace. The cabin can accommodate groups up to 8, provided there are no more than 6 adults. The main floor has a full bathroom with tub/shower. A queen sized bed in one room and a bunk bed and a pull out futon in the other. The loft provides separate sleeping. It has a queen sized pull out futon, a single futon that folds out into a bed for a child. All linens, pillows & towels are provided. We also have a port-o-crib, if you have a little one. The loft also has a bathroom with a shower.
$25 per person per night over 6 people.
**** CHRISTMAS **** 3 day minimum (no Christmas Day check-in)
Owner Contact Information
|Private Owner
SE rd St
Kent, WA 98042
Click here
|Member Since:
|Feb. 15th, 2008
|Other Listings:
Rental Rates
- Feb 25 - March 31 weekday 250 weekend 325
- April 1 - 30 weekday 200 weekend 250
- May 1 - Nov 16 weekday 150 weekend 150
- Nov 17 - Dec 14 weekday 225 weekend 325
- Dec 15 - Jan 3 weekday 450 weekend 450
- Jan 4 - Mar 31- weekday 250 weekend 325
- $430 deposit...$130 cleaning fee
Amenitiesfull kitchen , 2 Satellite TV\'s , ping pong table , foosball table , xbox , children books , adult books , lots of games , DVD player , port-o-crib , washer and dryer , CD player , fireplace , air hockey
2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Capacity: 8
Beds: 2 qn, full futon, bunkbed, child sz futon
Minimum Stay: 2 Night Minimum
Further Information
Sunday nights 1/2 off weekend rate w/3 night min. & Saturday night stay
Restrictions: - No pets, No smoking
Nearby Attractions: - Skiing, sledding, snow shoeing, cross crounty skiing, snow mobiling, hiking, biking, boating, kayaking, swimming, backpacking, and lots more!
There are currently no reviews for this property.Add a Review


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Fernanda - posted on 02/11/2010 ( 8 moms have responded )
hi, my baby is 7 months old, she does all the things children do at his age, the only thing that she doesn´t do is take her bottle by herself, i try to give it to her, she takes it for a minute and no more, is that normal???????? and do you think it is wrong to give her food in the bottle??? thxxx and sorry for my english :)


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Mountain Bay Airpark Inc
Mountain Bay Airpark is a private airport located in the Pocono mountains,
Pilots wishing to use the airport are asked to email firstname.lastname@example.com for information. Annual usage of the airport runs from April to March. A modest annual fee is charged to help defray cost of maintaining the airport and entitles the user to unlimited use of the runway and temporary tie down during visits. All users must sign a liability waiver before using the airport. Should you wish to base your aircraft at Mountain Bay there is a monthly tie down fee which includes the annual user fee.
The airport runway is paved and is 2230 feet long (read short). There are no over runs at either end of the runway!! The airport elevation is 1500 feet. CTAF/Unicom frequency is 122.7 The runway is lighted. Lights are pilot controlled by clicking 5 times on CTAF (122.7)frequency. Airport is located on
127º radial, 12.5NM from Lake Henry VOR (LHY). Coordinates are 41º22'48" N / 75º13'58" W. There are many deer in the area. A low pass prior to landing is advisable to check for deer on the runway.


text:
It's been awhile since I've posted. And for good reason, let me tell you.
While driving home from work on October 11, 2012, I was in a serious car accident. A young guy who had just bought a car failed to yield on one of the busiest streets in Lexington, plowed into me, sending me into yet another car.
I've been in a few car accidents in my life, each and every one no fault of mine, but this one was the worst by far. I immediately knew something was wrong with my right foot, and when I looked down after the smoke cleared, my foot was twisted and almost beside my ankle.
Needless to say, I was alarmed.
An ambulance took me to the nearest hospital and the docs confirmed that my ankle was shattered. What has followed since has been two surgeries, metal plates in my foot, splints, and casts. And right before Thanksgiving, my Grandfather passed away. Because of my foot, I was unable to make the trip to attend the funeral. I'm just now to the point where I will be starting physical therapy, and the surgeon says that I might get to try and walk again near the end of January.
It's been a challenge for me not being able to walk and do things myself. My life has been turned upside down and inside out. I haven't been able to work my day job, which is what pays my bills. The pain has been a challenge to deal with, and the pain meds typically left me sleepy and/or loopy. So writing hasn't really been an option either. I'm just now getting to the point where I can focus enough to possibly write and do crafts.
So that's what's been going on in my life. I'm hoping now I am on my way to reclaim what I once had, and possibly even make it better. Because as bad as it was and is, I know that it could have been worse.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
No Leg To Stand On
Posted by Christle Gray at 11:12 AM 0 comments
Labels: accidents, chrissie lee, christle gray, driving, life
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
The Bride's Journey by Laurie Sorensen
Today I am excited to feature fellow author, Laurie Sorensen, and her new Evernight Publishing release, The Bride's Journey!
Slightly plump and over aged at six and twenty, Abigail Preston sits on a shelf in England, with no hope of marriage. She loses all she loves to the epidemic cholera, and to make matter worse, her father's will stipulates she must marry within a year to inherit. Desperate, she answers an advertisement for a bride in America; Benjamin Siddle only requests that she be made of sturdy stock and resistant to cold weather. Opportunity is knocking for Abby so she travels to America to marry a man she doesn't know in a last bid for happiness. Abigail is faced with an unknown surprise upon arrival at Benjamin's home, what will she do? Someone is willing to do whatever it takes to stop her marriage to anyone. But does this mad man want her or her money? Can Ben and Abby overcome the obstacles placed in their way and find true love along the way?
Bereft of his heat, Abby shivered slightly staring at the door. What must he think of me now. I am nothing but a wanton woman, pushing myself on a man who doesn't know me. Oh my, what things he made my body feel, I wanted to burn with it, yet there must be more to it than what I was feeling. But what more could there be?
Abby entered her room, locking the door she leaned up against it and sighed. Her heart was still fluttering so she took a couple of deep breaths trying to calm her thoughts. The bed seemed to call her name, her lids getting heavy as she made her way across the room. Maybe a good night's rest will clear these ridiculous notions from my head.
She removed her robe, draped it over the end of the bed and climbed beneath the sheets. Her night rail proved too warm, sighing she got out of bed and removed it. Abby placed it on the end of the bed with her wrapper and slipped under the covers, the cool linen luxurious against her soft skin. She snuggled into the down feather mattress and took a deep breath. I can almost smell him. My friends were right, men have a most fascinating smell. The pillow she had laid her head on smeller lightly of lavender, and her hands smelled of Benjamin, smiling, she slipped into a restless sleep filled with dreams.
His hand reached for her, tipping her face up for his kiss. Abby molded herself to his body, melding them into one being. She wrapped her arms around his neck, arching her back begging for more. Benjamin picked her up, carrying her to the bed, deepening the kiss, eliciting small moans from the back of her throat. Never breaking the kiss, he laid them down stroking her body freely. Tweaking one nipple in his fingers, his lips left her mouth, blazing a white hot trail down her neck to the other nipple. Sucking it into his mouth he suckled there and was rewarded when she threw her head back catching her breath. Smiling, he chanced a glance at her face before letting her nipple go to kiss her ribs and stomach. Abby was wriggling upon the sheets when his mouth took possession of her most private parts. Benjamin slid his tongue through the golden brown curls hiding her treasure and found the hard little nub that would bring her the greatest pleasure known to womanhood. He lightly nipped the rosy bud before delving deeper into her, stroking his tongue up and down her moist slit. One hand stroked her while his tongue journeyed in and out of her shaft, the other hand never having left the nipple he played with.
Abby moaned loud enough to have awakened herself. She was breathing heavily while one hand was stroking a hardened nipple and the other was between her legs, soaking wet. Jerking up in bed, she brought her hands out from under the blankets as her body, hot and sweating, shaking. Oh my, what on earth was all that? A quick glance about the room proved she was alone; Benjamin wasn't there. Gasping, she collapsed upon the pillow, her cheeks pink and covered herself completely before finally slipping into a restful sleep.
Laurie's Links:
Evernight Publishing
All Romance eBooks
Posted by Christle Gray at 6:28 AM 0 comments
Labels: ebooks, evernight publishing, historical romance, laurie sorensen, new release, romance, writing
Saturday, August 11, 2012
New Release!
It's here! My first anthology has been released by Evernight Publishing! (Under the name of my alter-ego, Chrissie Lee) I'm so excited and proud to be involved in this m/m anthology about friends turning into lovers. Included is my story, Jay's Addiction, about two best friends struggling with the pain of drug addiction and acceptance, while searching for love. Enjoy!
Best friends make the best lovers? Indeed they do. There's nothing more exciting than discovering that the person you already share everything with is the one you want sharing your bed.
Join us for ten tales of sexy and decadent discoveries as these gloriously hot men find all the love, lust and orgasmic delight they could ever want—closer than they expected.
Available from:
Evernight Publshing
All Romance eBooks
Posted by Christle Gray at 7:37 AM 0 comments
Labels: alternative romance, anthology, chrissie lee, erotic romance, erotic short story, evernight publishing, gay fiction, gay romance, m/m fiction
Saturday, July 21, 2012
Snow White and the Hitman by K. Williams
Today I'm happy to feature author K. Williams with her contribution to Evernight Publishing's Naughty Fairy Tales line, Snow White and the Hitman!
Darcy King has had enough. With a sexy distraction, she manages to escape from the guards at North Tower, where she has been a virtual prisoner since her stepmother sent her there nine years ago. After wandering through the forest, she encounters seven outrageous drag queens and begins dancing at their night club under the stage name Snow White.
Aric Hunstman was hired to kidnap Darcy, but finds he is helpless against her beauty. He changes his ways and when Darcy's friend, Nick Prince, discovers that Darcy just might be the rightful heir to her father's fashion empire, he dedicates himself to helping her claim her birthright. After a poisoned martini nearly derails their plans, Nick and Aric can't seem to get over their disagreement about which one of them deserves Darcy's affections.
Darcy is tired of others directing her life and decides to finally start taking what she wants.
Darcy was tired, despite having been asleep for so many days. She had a slight headache, but counted herself lucky that that was the only lasting effect. Nick and Aric looked as tired as she felt, but she knew neither of them would be the first to suggest stopping. She didn't want to be the one to do it either, but she knew that it would be for the best.
"I think we should get some rest," she said. "There's no point in rushing to get there tonight. He won't be in his office. We should get some sleep."
Aric nodded and turned into the parking lot of the first hotel they passed. Aric went into the lobby and flashed a charming smile to the woman attending the counter. He talked his way into a room, even though they had no reservation. Darcy was looking forward to a shower more than anything else. Her hair was still gunky with hairspray and she was sure that she smelled less than ladylike. Darcy immediately went to shower the moment they had checked in.
The tension in the room after Darcy left was a tangible thing. "I still don't trust you," Nick said as soon as the sound of running water came from the bathroom.
"It doesn't matter if you trust me or not," Aric replied.
Nick encroached on Aric's personal space in an attempt to intimidate him. "I know you had something to do with all this. What did you put in her drink to make her sleep like that?"
"I couldn't have done it and you know that."
Nick cringed. He had his suspicions about what had gone on when the two had talked before and now Aric was throwing it in his face. He didn't want to think about Darcy with Aric. "Don't tell me what I know."
Aric sighed and leered down at the shorter man. "Are you really going to make me spell it out for you? I have an alibi."
Nick and his wounded pride backed away, but he still attempted to retaliate. "Stop playing with her emotions."
"She doesn't seem to need you looking over her shoulder all the time. You're just making yourself look pathetic."
The comment stung and Nick desperately hoped it wasn't true. He was confident that Darcy would never think that of him, but he still feared that it was true, that he was just making himself look like a love-struck fool when he was just trying to protect her. "She's just a girl. She's been locked away for so long. I'm not going to stand by while you use her. Back off!"
In the heat of their argument, neither of the men had noticed that the shower had stopped and Darcy was in the room, dripping wet and wrapped in a cheap hotel towel.
"Both of you need to get a grip," she said, her voice shaking with anger. Nick looked ashamed and started to explain himself, but Darcy silenced him with a glare. "I can't believe what I just heard. Both of you are acting like you know what's best for me. That's bullshit. How many times do I have to say it before you'll realize I make my own decisions? I didn't run away from North Tower just to have you two fighting over me in a hotel room like I'm some doll you can just do whatever you want with."
"I just don't think he's good for you," Nick said softly.
"You don't get to make that call, Nick!" Darcy snapped. "It's my life. I get to decide. I like both of you, even though you were both just acting like childish pigs. Don't you understand? I'm not some prize you can fight over."
Aric nodded. "I apologize, Darcy."
Nick sighed. "Yeah, I'm sorry too. I just want what's best for you, but it's not my job to decide what that is."
Her anger faded and she moved between them, placing a kiss first on Aric's lips and then on Nick's. "I accept your apologies. Now, can we all behave like grown-ups or do I need to spank you?" she teased.
Nick smiled. "I'll be good."
Aric lifted his hand. "I'd like the spanking."
Darcy laughed and even Nick had to crack a smile at the joke. "See, now isn't it better not to fight?" Darcy whispered. She pulled both men closer to her by the belt loop and her towel started to slip. "I think we could find a way for all of us to get along." She grabbed Aric's hand and placed it on her ass while she pressed herself against Nick and started to kiss his neck.
Buy Links:
Evernight Publishing
All Romance E-Books
Posted by Christle Gray at 4:00 AM 0 comments
Labels: ebooks, erotic romance, evernight publishing, fairy tales, k. williams, menage, paranormal romance
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Music Speaks
"Where words fail, music speaks." – Hans Christian Andersen
100% of profits from the sale of this short story collection will be donated to the MusiCares Foundation—a non-profit organization that helps musicians in times of need.
Music is everywhere, seeping into every corner of our lives, and it has a special kind of magic. It can help us sleep, or make us dance, give wings to our dreams, or commiserate with our sorrow. Music can spark a long-buried memory, bring people together, change a mind, or even save a life.
In these pages are eleven short stories from nine independent authors. These stories cover a wide range of genres—from romance to dystopia—but they all share a single theme: the power of music.
Included in this anthology is a story by a very talented author, Laurie Sorensen.
Music Heals All Hearts by Laurie Sorensen
-Martin plays guitar and sings for the patients at St. Vincent's Hospital, disfigured on purpose during his teenage years, he wears an eye patch to cover an unseeing eye. While singing in the emergency room one day, Melissa is brought in screaming and in pain covering her eyes. There was an immediate connection to the woman for Martin and over the weeks of recovery that follows, they fall in love while she can't see his disfigured face. Once her eyesight come back, he fears she will reject him, as she fears he will reject her once he sees her without the bandages covering her own scars. The fear is unfounded for both of them as they realize that music connected them in all ways and love conquers all.
Available for purchase at:
Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Smashwords
Posted by Christle Gray at 7:04 AM 1 comments
Labels: anthology, charity, laurie sorensen, music fiction, rock and roll, rock music, short stories
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
News, News, News!
Feels like it's been ages since I posted.
(OK, OK, it has been awhile. I suck.)
Been busy as ever with the day job. Eats up more and more of my time these days. But my alter ego, Chrissie Lee, did manage to squeak out a little m/m short story for an Evernight Publishing Anthology, which was accepted. So, Hell's Yeah!
Jay's Addiction will be in the Lover, Unexpected Anthology, Manlove Edition, due out this August.
I even have sexy new cover art to share!
Best friends make the best lovers? Indeed they do. There's nothing more exciting than discovering that the person you already share everything with is the one you want sharing your bed.
Join us for ten tales of sexy and decadent discoveries as these gloriously hot men find all the love, lust and orgasmic delight they could ever want—closer than they expected.
I'm waiting to dive into edits, and so excited to be a part of this anthology! Such great author company I'm in!
Will share more when I can!
Posted by Christle Gray at 1:04 PM 0 comments
Labels: anthology, chrissie lee, erotic romance, evernight publishing, gay fiction, gay romance, m/m fiction
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
New Release!
It's here! My first m/m release, courtesy of Evernight Publishing!
Aleyin Hartwick hasn't had it easy. Not just because he's gay. Or that his family is flamboyantly and openly Wiccan. He's an empath. Aleyin can sense people's emotions and even see the strong ones as colorful auras. Makes fitting in all but impossible, and all he wants to do is escape.
Finally breaking free from his new age family, Aleyin encounters a man at a local night club that pulses with a mixture of colors and emotions that leave him breathless, confused, and extremely aroused, effectively turning his quest for a normal life upside down.
Will the approaching spring equinox bring the new beginning Aleyin's been searching for? Or question everything he's ever believed instead?
As my gaze touched the far corner of the room, I caught a brief glimpse of color, a deep blue tinged with burgundy that I'd never seen before. The aura was larger than others I'd seen, and it pulsed in a steady rhythm that matched the loud music in the club. Confused but interested, I sat up straighter on the bar stool, and squinted my eyes to see better through the poorly lit interior. A slender woman moved aside and revealed a decidedly male outline under the indigo halo.
Breath stalled in my chest as my gaze roved over his silhouette. He was tall, even taller than my six feet. He leaned casually against the wall, the black t-shirt showing every carved line of muscle on his chest. His dark jeans appeared painted on. Not even a breath would fit between him and the fabric. Raven colored hair was pulled back from his face in a ponytail, which accentuated his sharp cheekbones and aquiline nose. His face was in shadow, so I couldn't tell what color his eyes were. Longing for that information made me lean forward a little.
The indigo cloud around his head pulsated as his gaze roved over the people on the dance floor. He almost looked bored, but understated tension still oozed from his seemingly casual stance. I licked my suddenly dry lips and slowly eased back my mental block as I focused on the hot stranger. His color intrigued me, and I wanted to know what it was he was feeling.
I was unprepared for the hard slap of sensation that hit me. A need so intense it made my eyes sting filled every part of me with white fire. The fire moved within me, almost alive in the way it writhed inside, sending wave after wave of desire to every nerve ending I had. My cock jerked inside my jeans, suddenly engorged and pushing against the zipper painfully. My heart rate doubled, and the air in the bar thickened until it was difficult to breathe. I gasped and stifled a moan.
Across the room, the stranger's head snapped up, and he straightened, all ease gone from his stature. He lifted his chin, nostrils flared in my direction. The dark blue hovering around him deepened to a more purple color, the shade of burgundy still tingeing the edges. Now out of shadow, I could see that his eyes were ebony, and his gaze locked with mine as he scented the air again.
Another wave of emotion washed over me, and I shuddered. I rubbed my throbbing cock through the denim of my pants, unable to control the feelings hitting me in their relentless assault on my senses. I closed my eyes and imagined it was his hand running over my sensitive flesh.
Available from Evernight Publishing!
Posted by Christle Gray at 9:00 AM 0 comments
Labels: chrissie lee, erotic romance, evernight publishing, m/m fiction
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
The Naughty World of Chrissie Lee...
So Chrissie Lee, my naughty alter-ego has been busy, and needs to share some news as well as some cover art!
Got my first round of edits for my HOT m/m story coming soon from Evernight Publishing, and then got my AMAZING cover art! Had to share the Hunk-A-Palooza!
Been working hard on edits, but it's awesome to see things start to come together! I'm even on Evernight's "Coming Soon" page!
Posted by Christle Gray at 4:50 PM 0 comments
Labels: chrissie lee, evernight publishing, gay romance, m/m fiction
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
New Contract!
Been working hard, trying to fit in writing time with day-job time and hubby time. But now we have a payoff!
My first m/m romance has been accepted for publication under the name of Chrissie Lee by Evernight Publishing!
It's called The Color of Hunger, and I'm beyond excited that I get to share it with the world!
Tentatively slated as a summer release, I'll be sure to keep you all posted!
Posted by Christle Gray at 1:46 PM 0 comments
Labels: chrissie lee, evernight publishing, gay romance, m/m fiction
Monday, January 16, 2012
And We're Back!
So now that the holidays are over and things are settling down, I've managed to get all three of the Hell House books back up on Amazon, and with the new KDP programs, They are all FREE for Amazon Prime members! How cool is that?
Now it's time to get back to writing more stories!
Now available at Amazon for Kindle!
Posted by Christle Gray at 4:52 PM 0 comments
Labels: fairies, hell house, kindle, magic, vampires, young adult literature, zombies


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On Wednesday, May 30, 2012, JCHS welcomed representatives from Roanoke County Public Schools, the Salem City School Board, the Roanoke County Economic Development Department and Virginia Western Community College.
In the picture above, taken in one of our science laboratories on the sixth floor at Carilion Roanoke Community Hospital on the JCHS Campus, are (left to right, back row): Dr. Nathaniel L. Bishop, President of Jefferson College of Health Sciences; Catherine Turner, JCHS Development Officer; Fran Kiker, Coordinator of Guidance & Counseling Services for Roanoke County Public Schools; Dr. Lisa Allison-Jones, JCHS Dean for Academic Affairs; and Erik Williams, Coordinator of Resource Development, Virginia Western Community College.
Front row (left to right): Jill Loope, Acting Director, Roanoke County Economic Development; Lorraine Lange, Superintendent of Roanoke County Public Schools; and Sally Southard, Chairman, Salem City School Board.


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Clarkson To Miss The Rest Of The Season
Striker David Clarkson is to miss the rest of the season due to injury.
The former Bristol City striker is to have an operation on his ankle, a problem that has effected him all sesson. The 27 year old has made 24 starts for Rovers this season and has scored 7 goals. David Clarkson is Rovers current top goal scorer so far this season along with former loanee Tom Eaves.
Clarkson was signed in the summer of 2012 by Mark McGhee after being released by Championship side Bristol City.


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Cardinal Mooney defeated East Palestine, 3-0, in high school volleyball Monday night. The Lady Cardinals won 25-15, 25-16, 25-8.
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Leading the charge for Mooney was Nichole Webber with 11 kills and five blocks. Lauren Lottier added 16 digs and Gina Patella had 21 assists.
The Lady Cards improve to 2-2 on the season while East Palestine drops to 2-1.


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Ariane Robin Wilson and Dr. Courtney Eugene Lang were married Oct. 27, 2007, in an outdoor ceremony in Redwood Grove at The Family Farm in Woodside, Calif. Terry Plank officiated.
The bride is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Richard Wilson of Menlo Park, Calif. She is the granddaughter of C.J. and the late Charles Marrow of Palo Alto, Calif., and Frances and the late John Wilson of Mound City, Mo.
The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Gene Lang of Springfield. He is the grandson of Mary Calhoun and the late Mitchell Calhoun of Springfield and Mary Lang and the late retired Lt. Col. George Lang of Springfield.
The bride chose her sister, Tristan Wilson of San Francisco, Calif., as maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Helen Hwang of Sunnyvale, Calif., friend of the bride; and Franky Smith and Gretta Smith, both of Shingle Springs, Calif., the bride's cousins.
The groom chose his brother, Jacob Lang of Atlanta, as best man. Groomsmen were Mark Savage of San Diego, Calif., the groom's cousin; and Dr. Randall Schloff of Midland, Mich., and Blake Aasgaard of Atlanta, friends of the groom.
A dinner reception was held at The Family Farm following the ceremony.
They live in San Carlos, Calif.


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With spring we have been expriencing alot of rain which increases the risk of flooding in basements. So here are some tips provided by the City of Ottawa on how to prevent floods and damages to your home. For more detailed information please visit http://ottawa.ca/en/residents/water-and-environment/sewers-and-septic-systems/backups-and-flooding
Tips to prevent floods and damage
- Residents can help prevent basement flooding – and reduce the negative effects of flood damage – with a few simple changes around the home:Slope ground away from the foundation to allow rainwater to flow away from the home.
- Seal window wells and cracks in floors, walls and the foundation.
- Direct water from downspouts attached to eavestroughs at least 1.2 metres away from the foundation or into a rain barrel. Downspouts should never be embedded in the ground, or connected to the sewer system or footing drains.
- Ensure footing drains direct water to a storm sewer or sump pump, away from the foundation. Footing drains should not be connected to the sanitary sewer system.
- Ensure the sump pump is connected to the storm sewer system or empties onto the lawn at least 1.2 metres from the foundation wall.
- Ensure water run-off on the property is flowing to the ground surface or storm drainage system, not the sanitary system.
- Install protective plumbing devices (such as backwater valves) that protect against sewer backups, and inspect them regularly.
- Seal and tighten cleanout caps and backwater valve caps.
- Ensure service pipes between the municipal sewer line and the house are in good operating condition.
- Do not keep valuables or important documents in the basement; otherwise protect them in water tight or water resistant containers.
- Prepare an emergency survival kit that includes food, water and medical supplies in an easy-to-carry container. Pack a battery-powered radio and spare batteries, as well as the following items:
- Flashlight with spare batteries
- Warm clothing, including waterproof outer garments and footwear
- Blankets
- All necessary medications
- Infant care items
- Personal toiletries
- Identification for each member of the household
- Important personal and family documents
Reducing sewer backups – protective plumbing
Protective plumbing prevents water and sewage from entering your home through sewer connections during rising water levels in City sewers. These methods can range from installing a sump pump and changing the footing drains around your foundation to installing an approved backwater valve on the sewer pipes connecting your sanitary sewer to the City sewers.
Protective plumbing that is installed and maintained properly will significantly reduce the chance of a basement backup in your home caused by the surcharging or blockage of the sewer system.
The best and the recommended solution to reduce the possibility of sewage backing up into your basement is to install an approved full port backwater valve. This protective plumbing device is designed to allow the flow of waste in one direction only; i.e. flow from the property towards the sewer line under the street.
The installation of a backwater valve must be done by a qualified plumber and conform to the building code. A building permit is required for any modification to the plumbing system.
Residential Protective Plumbing program
This program can help homeowners who have experienced a sewer backup by evaluating what protective plumbing methods may avoid future backups and offers grants to help install protective plumbing devices.
The evaluation is free. Individual homeowners or condominium corporations may be eligible for the grant.
*Original Script Source: City of Ottawa Website http://ottawa.ca/


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The Portland Action Lab and Occupy Portland are encouraging citizens to "vote with your feet" tomorrow for a big protest of cuts to education, healthcare, and social services.
The action is taking place tomorrow at 1pm in Holladay Park. The organizers write, "We call on all participants in the Occupy movement, rank-and-file union members, students, our elders and people-at-large to organize creatively and return to our public spaces with this message on the weekend before the election. Our communities will make our own decisions and control our own resources, no matter who is elected."
The event is also being billed as a protest against the Portland Business Alliance, which is typically the #1 lobbyist in Portland's city hall and fought 2010 tax Measure 66 and 67.
If you're planning to vote with your pen as well as your feet this weekend, our election voter guide is here.


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Idaho first lady Lori Otter was just 20 feet away from Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump as the Secret Service rushed him off stage during a rally over the weekend.
Otter was with a group of other Idaho Trump supporters in Reno, Nevada when a disturbance broke out in the crowd close to the podium where Trump was speaking.
She says it all happened quickly and she was very impressed with how the Secret Service handled the situation.
"I really wasn't scared, and I really wasn't nervous, simply because I know how those Secret Service guys are," said Otter. "They're not going to get a second chance, you know if something hadn't happened right away, and they had to react to what already happened, I didn't feel like there was anything else that was going to happen."
Otter was there to give a welcome speech and lead the Pledge of Allegiance.


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I have a brand new 2013 Subaru Crosstrek. When the car is off and cooled down, I hear a sound like the fuel pump running. If I turn the key to accessory then off, the sound stops. I don't understand what can be running if the car is off?
Friday, January 18th, 2013 AT 12:08 AM


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Based on 16 votes and 5 reviews
a waste of 100 minutes of valuable time, and all because the people who made it did not see fit to give the movie an ending. no one should ever bother to watch it.
boring boring boring
Director Reichardt(Old Joy,Wendy and Lucy)presents the story of settlers in covered wagons heading west in the 1840's in realistic but minimalist style.The pace is a bit slow and this film is not for all tastes.
could have been better
I really enjoyed this visually stunning and slow moving arthouse film. It's a stripped-down Western that takes place in 1845 with no action involved as this movie focuses upon the characters and their settings.


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Saturday night, December 5, Hollywood, CA
Bench Warmer CEO, Brian Wallos, hosted the Fourth Annual Bench Warmer Holiday Gala and Toy Drive benefiting Toys For Tots. Founded in early 1992, Bench Warmer created the female trading card category with its first release of 120 cards featuring beautiful women in their favorite sports garb. To learn more about Bench Warmer visit their website: http://www.benchwarmer.com
The mission of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is to assist the U. S. Marine Corps in providing a tangible sign of hope to economically disadvantaged children at Christmas. To learn more about Toys for Tots or to make a donation go to http://www.toysfortots.org/
Here is Brian with some of Santa's Little Helpers.
Vote for Pedro! Napolean Dynamite star, Efren Ramirez was one of the celebrities on the 'red-carpet' at the Toy Drive.
Here we have Latin Percussionist & Arranger, Paris Escovedo. He's a great guy, who's favorite supercross is Anahiem. What he likes about supercross "…not knowing the outcome of a race until the final lap – you just never know what's going to happen next!" To learn more about Paris Escovedo and listen to some of his music, visit his website: http://www.sonicbids.com/parisescovedoproject
Here was have Freestyle Motocross star, Ronnie Faisst on the 'red-carpet'.
Now, this is Melissa "Mojo" Hunter with two of the Marines. She also likes the Anaheim supercross. And why not? Her answer was pretty simple "It's fun!" Melissa has been involved in the industry doing a variety of things, including Umbrella Girls. Learn more about Melissa on MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/mojomodel
Next was Rebecca Mary. She was cool too! Her favorite MX athlete – Kyle Loza! Why does she like him? "Because he breaks images of stero-types. Great guy, especially once you get to know him."
Just some of the many donated toys underneath the 14 foot Douglas Fir Christmas tree!
Pictured with me is Jessica Hall, host for Playboy Radio. Jessica was awesome, nice, and easy to talk with. And yes folks, she rides! "I've been involved in riding since I was a little kid. My parents started me out on a PW80! Then I got a KX80, and then a YZ 125! I don't ride so much today, but I still like to go out to the dunes every now and then." Her favorite supercross raced – Las Vegas. Her favorite rider – Jeremy McGrath. Shhhh … don't tell anyone, but she used to baby-sit Kyle Lewis's kid!
Next is Nikki Griffin. You may have seen her on the show "The O.C." She loves ESPN's XGames and says, "It's all about the power … and the sweaty guys with the bikes between their legs!" 😉
Last, but not least, is Lana Kinnear. Have you've seen her before? She's great, easy to talk with, smart, great attitude. Oh yeah – you HAVE seen her on Supercross.com before! Her favorite supercoss is Anaheim and her favorite rider is Tyler Evans. Want to learn more about Lana and see more pictures of her? Check out her website: http://www.absolutelana.com


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Boy, just try to say that title 5 times fast! Maybe we ought to just call it 'B4' instead…..ok, maybe not. Sorry, don't know where that came from, exactly. Anyway, a mere 3.2 seconds after I saw this on Julia's blog, Fat Girl Trapped in a Skinny Body, I immediately printed it out and set out to make it. Frankly, I get tired of the same old banana bread recipes; I needed something new. And browned butter?? Um, yes, please! I love the stuff so much I could pour it over my cereal in the morning! It's that good. You can't imagine the beautiful, glorious aromas wafting through the house while this is baking- it's enough to drive a girl crazy! I can't wait to find other great recipes that use browned butter…especially since I don't think people will take too kindly to browned butter over Cheerios. Don't think the public is quite ready for that one yet….
Browned Butter Banana Bread
–Fat Girl Trapped In A Skinny Body
1 stick butter
2 cups flour
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
4 bananas
1/2 cup chopped pecans
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease an 8 inch loaf pan.
In a medium saucepan over high melt the butter. Once it is melted lower the heat to medium and swirl the butter around the pan instead of stirring it. It will take about 5 minutes for it to brown. Occasionally swirl it. You will notice when it turns brown because it literally, turns brown. Remove the pan from the heat and allow to cool while getting everything else ready.
In a large bowl sift the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
In another bowl whisk the eggs then add the mashed bananas, vanilla and the semi-cooled butter.
Add the liquid to the dry mixture. Mix just until incorporated, don't over mix. Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan.
Bake at 350 degrees for 60-70 minutes, until it is browned on top and a fork inserted comes out clean. Cool for at least 15 minutes in the pan before cutting and serving.
10 Comments »
Wow, you are making me want to go make this all over again, right now! After all, it was maybe one of my favorite things, ever!
Oooooh, I bet that was yummy!
Comment by ErinsFoodFiles — June 8, 2010 @ 7:30 PM
Wow!! My mouth is watering!! It sounds so good.
I just discovered the glories of browned butter and I thank you for giving me another place to use it. The cake looks wonderful.
Comment by Ciaochowlinda — June 13, 2010 @ 6:41 AM
Made this last week! Very good!! Thanks 🙂
We just made this and it was fabulous! Loved it!
amy Reply:
July 19th, 2010 at 9:44 PM
Awesome Nicole, I'm so glad you liked it!!
Just made this bread yesterday. It's so good. I featured it on my blog–credit to you. Thanks so much for posting such a yummy recipe. Love your blog.
amy Reply:
January 7th, 2011 at 12:27 PM
Thanks so much, Brandy! So happy you enjoyed it!
[…] Browned Butter Banana Bread Slightly adapted from Sing For your Supper […]
Pingback by Browned Butter Banana Bread « Life Moves Pretty Fast — October 17, 2012 @ 10:46 PM
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15 Nov 2011
Show Invite – Small Art at Gallery 1313
I am happy to invite you to a holiday art show at the Gallery 1313 on Queen Street West. The show is featuring miniature works of art, salon style exhibition and sale. All artwork in the show is up to 8″x10″, and not more than $150.
I have 7 pieces in the show, four of them are 6″x6″x1.5″, the Seedlings Series and Blue Chamsa, and the other three are 8″x10″x1.5″, Gaga Calling, Coffee for Two, and Ice Coffee.
Gallery 1313
November 16 – December 18
Opening Nov. 17 at 7pm
1313 Queen Street West, Toronto ON
Hours: Wednesday through Sunday 12 to 6pm
Did you find this post useful or inspiring? Why not tell your friends about it or subscribe to receive new posts via email? Subscribe to Moshe Mikanovsky Art Blog here and Tell your friends about it.


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Main :: Spider IV/Spider Online
by larryriv on 2013-01-31 08:50:39.1210
I have a Spyder IV 150 combo that has two jacks for 8 ohm speakers. Does anyone know what wattage, size, whatever I should use. Also, I saw that someone said it mutes the two speakers in the cabinet. Is this true? If so, what is the advantage if any, to using the jacks for two different speakers?
by fflbrgst on 2013-02-01 06:01:00.5810
75 watts per channel, 8 ohm. Make sure you do not use a lowere impedance load on each than 8 ohms or you could damage the amplifier.
The 'advantages' woudl be using other speakers that have a sound you like, or spreading the speakers out for a more 'stereo' image, or to have one speaker on each side of a stage.
by larryriv on 2013-02-09 08:07:50.3920
Is it true that if you plug in the external speakers, the two twelves in the cabinet don't come on?
by fflbrgst on 2013-02-11 05:49:32.6860
Yes, it is true. It is important to present the right load on the amp (as in all solid state amps), else you can burn out components in the amp. Hooking up two 8 ohm speakers to one circuit in parallel would result in a 4 ohm load, which could harm the amp.
by larryriv on 2013-03-14 07:37:37.9220
Is there any problem with plugging in speakers that are more than 8 ohms-just to be safe?
by fflbrgst on 2013-03-15 08:55:22.7810
Impedance loads over 8 ohms are ok, but you might not get the same volume out of the amp. remember that plugging in two 8 ohm speakers together on 1 circuit can result in a 4 ohm load if wired in parallel, and a 16 ohm load if wired in series.
The information above may not be current, and you should direct questions to the current forum or review the manual.


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"Find The Baby"
Our yearbook package lets you relax and take in every moment without stress. Each yearbook package comes with a 12 page album, Smash cake one year celebration, and a digital pose from each 12 mini sessions.
A tale of great "Perspective".
|Suzie and Chris in front of their first Christmas tree.
|Leona Murray, Suzie's Grandmother
|Thomas Dugan, Suzie's father.
|Sharon Dugan, Suzie's mother.
|Lady In Pink Photography Headquarters. Suzie's office.
|Special features of blushing bride Ashley's dress, pockets!
|Special feature of blushing bride Charlotte's wedding dress, orange sash sewn on by mother and sister of bride and Grooms cape worn by Charlotte down the isle.
|Special feature of blushing bride Chyann's wedding dress, she wore the color blue!
|Special feature of blushing bride Chelsie's wedding dress,intricate bead-work, slit up front, and corset top.
|Special feature of blushing bride Janelle's wedding dress,
found at a second hand thrift store and had altered to perfection.
|Special feature to blushing bride Rebekah's wedding dress, bustled easily to make the perfect dress for an outdoor celebration and dancing after a rainstorm.
3rd and final part of Mr. and Mrs. Ramsey's wedding day memories.


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Interested in more news on the Right to Die? ERGO circulates on a regular basis an electronic newslist with news from around the world.
A GP from Ostend was arrested on 29 July and imprisoned for four days, accused of having ended the lives of 5 patients in a care home over the last 3 years by increasing their doses of morphine. The management of the home brought the case. The case remains open.
In their latest bulletin the ADMD questions the motives of the homes and certain legal organisations who set themselves up to judge the medical treatment given to these patients at the end of life and who insist on a "natural" death in line with fundamentalist religious attitudes.
Source: Newsletter RtD-Europe, September 2005.


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Magazine article Washington Report on Middle East Affairs
Freeman vs. Satloff: A Debate to Remember
Article excerpt
The Nixon Center in Washington, DC was the scene of a rare debate, on July 20, about whether Israel is really a strategic asset or a strategic liability for the United States. Gen. Charles G. Boyd, a Nixon Center fellow, moderated the debate on a subject which he described as often discussed privately but rarely in public. [After days of waiting, the Nixon Center finally permitted the Washington Report to attend the debate, held in a small conference room with a few select audience members.] Ambassador Charles Freeman, Jr., former U.S. envoy to Saudi Arabia and China and now chairman of Projects International, and Dr. Robert Satloff, executive director of the AIPAC-spinoff Washington Institute for Near East Policy, had quite different views on the topic.
Dr. Satloff called the special U.S.-Israeli relationship "a strategic bonanza for the U.S.: not just an asset, but a downright bargain." We "share ways of governing, ways of ordering society, ways of viewing the role of liberty and individual rights, and ways to defend those ideals," he emphasized.
According to Satloff, Israel is on the front line, facing many of the same threats Americans face. He listed military advantages that Israel brings to the U.S., including storing American war reserves in Israel and sharing "effective counterterrorism and counterinsurgency tactics," which he said have played an important role in America's fight in Iraq. "Israel's intelligence, its technology, lessons learned from its own experience in counterterrorism and asymmetric warfare, have saved American lives," Satloff contended. "Our relationship with Israel is not just good for Israel, it's good for America," Satloff concluded. "What we really need in the Middle East are more Israels...strong, democratic, reliable, pro-American allies. …


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Tacos on 116th Street
I'm planning a trip up to East Harlem around 116th St this afternoon for my fix at Taco Mix. Any other suggestions in that neighborhood? I know there are a ton of options on that street alone, and probably even more a couple of blocks away, but I've become a creature of habit and haven't branched out to any of its neighbors. Any suggestions? Thanks!


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I live in a city with a number of different cultures. Toronto has been named the most diverse city in the world several times in the last decade and anyone who visits here can easily see why. We truly are a melting pot.
There are some people that might say all these different cultures meshed together don't work, but I'm not one of them. I think it works just fine and it certainly keeps things interesting!
I live in what's known as Greek Town or more formally "The Danforth". I think there used to be a larger Greek population in this area a decade or two ago, but as the population ages new people are moving into the area, like Chris and I, and there are now at least four main cultural populations in the area. Greek/Macedonian, Muslim, Asian and of course Canadian. By Canadian I guess I generally mean people that were born in Canada and or have several generations of family in the country.
As a nurse working in a community hospital I've learned quite a bit about the many different cultural populations in our city. I gradually learned the best way to approach certain people. Just like dealing with people of different ages, there are things that you can do that are ok and others that would seem offensive. For example, in some cultures a woman shouldn't handle a mans shoes or perhaps it was that as a nurse I shouldn't handle their shoes as it was considered lowering myself or being a servant?
Anyway I've never had any problems dealing with people. Not in my neighborhood, the city in general or in any of my jobs. Hey, I get along with everyone!
The only major difference that I've noticed since we got a dog is that the Muslims that would usually pass my house, sometimes smiling or waving to me as I worked in my garden now literally run by if I'm outside with my puppy.
I believe this is because to Muslims dogs are thought to be unclean. I haven't looked it up, but I know back when I was single and lived in an apartment two Muslim men were very nervous to come into my apartment when delivering a new futon because I had my sisters dog there. They said they would have to pray more if they got dog saliva on them. I'm sure there's a longer explanation or more to it than that, but that's what I was told.
Perhaps someone that knows more than I could explain what it is about dogs that's so bad?
Anyway, I understand why the people who formerly walked by my home in peace now scurry by, but it kind of hurts my feelings too. It makes me feel as if I've done something wrong.
When I was outside this afternoon a young Muslim girl was coming home from school. Midnight had just defecated on the grass in the boulevard in front of my house. I was stooping over to clean it up and keeping Midnight close to me at the same time as I knew she didn't want the dog to get near her by the way she slowed down and by the look on her face.
I stopped what I was doing and pulled my Lab even closer to me and said "don't worry, I won't let her touch you." Yet the girl still ran by, skirting away from us as far as she could. I think I tried to make it clear that I understood she didn't want the dog to touch her and that I was doing my part to keep it from happening … yet she still ran by.
It made me feel bad.


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For all you die-hard baseball fans out there, one of the most renowned retailer and mail dealer in the U.S, Hammacher Schlemmer has now announced the introduction of perhaps one of the most endearing baseball memorabilia. We are talking about a 1/8th scale model of the immensely famous 1961 Yankee Stadium, which believe it or not, carries a price tag of a whopping $115,000. The legendary 1961 Yankee Stadium made headlines the same year, when the fabled baseball team New York Yankees claimed their 26th American League pennant and finished the 1961 season with a record score of 109-53. This expensive Yankee Stadium replica has been designed and developed with absolute attention to detail, while being entirely hand crafted. Made by artist Steve Wolf and hand painted as well, the 1961 Yankee Stadium replica is one of his latest creations, while numerous other stadium models crafted by him are known to grace the Los Angeles Sports Museum.
The 1961 Yankee Stadium took an astounding 3,000 hours to complete and the model itself measures a mere 49 square inch. To ensure spot on authenticity, the artist made use of original blueprints and photographs of the era, thereby ensuring that each and every aspect of the Yankee Stadium model measures exactly 1 inch. The scale model stadium is composed of nearly 10,000 individual parts that are handmade, while many of them are also laser cut from wood, polycarbon plastic, brass and aluminum. Each and every detail of the stadium from the exterior to the interior has been carefully crafted, while the mode also showcases the triple deck grandstand and Art Deco frieze. Furthermore, to add more luster to this magnificent masterpiece, Mr. Wolf has made use of up to 250 LED bulbs that make up the model stadium's six light banks and provide dazzling illumination to all 64,000 seats. There are 1960s era advertisements of Yoo-Hoo and Ballantine Beer & Ale carefully created on the stadium walls and the illuminated scoreboard.


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The devastated mum of a "bright and bubbly" teenage girl killed in a car accident has said her daughter's death has still not sunk in.
Estelle Thompson died on her 17th birthday on Sunday when the car she was travelling in hit a dry stone wall near the canal bridge in Manchester Road, Hapton.
Her mum Elizabeth Marsh, of Lawrence Avenue, Burnley, told the Express how Estelle had a unique dress sense and personality.
"When she was growing up Estelle was a very quiet, shy girl, but she really came out of her shell at high school.
"She had her own sense of style, loved fashion and make-up and was just a typical teenage girl.
"She loved visiting her friends and family in the area. We are just devastated. It has not sunk in."
Estelle was a former pupil of Cherry Fold Primary School and Unity College. She had started a hairdressing course at Accrington and Rossendale College, but had recently dropped out to consider her options.
Friends, relatives and neighbours have set up a Facebook tribute page and are planning a number of fund-raising events to help towards the family's funeral costs.
Estelle had been travelling back from her brother's house with a friend when the tragedy occurred.
Police are still investigating what caused the accident.
Sgt Finn Quainton, road policing investigator, said: "This is a tragic incident and my thoughts are with Estelle's family and friends. I would appeal to anybody who witnessed this collision, who saw the car involved in the moments before the collision, or who has any information that could assist with our investigation, to contact us."
A post-mortem examination is set to take place before a date can be set for Estelle's funeral.
She also leaves brother Ben (20) and sisters Stacey (21) and Sadie (19).


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Andrea Blasco
Post-Doctoral Fellow
Crowd Innovation Lab
Crowd Innovation Lab
Andrea Blasco is a post-doctoral Fellow at the Institute of Quantitative Social Science (IQSS) at Harvard University where he's working on the NASA Tournament Lab (NTL) project.
His research interests are in the areas of Industrial Organization, Economics of innovation and Media Economics.
In particular, much of his work is focused on understanding the intertwined relationship between R&D and the legal system of IP rights. An equally important part of his research is devoted to the analysis of key economic concepts and issues affecting new and traditional media.
Andrea holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Bologna, and a Master M2 from Toulouse School of Economics.
Contact Information
CGIS Knafel K319


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Allergies - drugs didn't work - v-dog did!
"I just started my Rottie on this wonderful food a few days ago, he has been having allergic reactions for the past three years now beginning with red, swollen, itchy, yeasty ears, to losing fur around his eyes and nose, and the last occurrence, he has had a purple/black circle the diameter of a large orange rimmed with a raised red circle for seven months or more now.
He has been on all kinds of diets, I was even making him his food at one point (he is a 100 lb rottie), was on antibiotics and steroids, and nothing helped, not even a bit. Four days ago he started on V-dog and his purple rash is fading, the red rim is completely gone, his ears are no longer itchy, or stinky and are a light peach/white color, fur growing back in. I am amazed and thankful that he is showing such progress, especially in such a short period of time. I cannot say enough about this fantastic food, thank-you V-dog!"
Jessica Lodgaard