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Feel The Rarotongan Feeling
Aroa Beach
Aroa Beach - on the sunshine southwest coast - is home to The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa. Here in an eternal embrace, the white sand shore is lapped by the luminous Aroa Lagoon, the Lagoon of Love. Stroll along the water's edge. Recline in a beach lounger. Sip a long cool cocktail. The soft sea breeze caressing your cheek, the warm sun on your shoulders, the gently swaying palms and lapping lagoon - these are the rhythms of Rarotonga which will lull you into a supreme sense of relaxation. Really, truly, deeply.
Private and secluded, Aroa Beach enjoys all-day sun and sizzling island sunsets, making The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa the best-located resort on the island.
At day's end, Aroa Beach provides grandstand views of the island's glorious tropical sunsets. You can even book a private candlelit dinner right on the beach, with your toes in the sand. Aroa Beach, your personal paradise.
Island Sunsets
The sun gently kissing the sea at the end of another perfect day in paradise. The Rarotongan is blessed with being set on the southwest coast, enjoying sun all day long, and spellbinding island sunsets. Whether walking hand in hand along Aroa Beach, lying back in a hammock skimming the sands, or enjoying a cool cocktail on the lagoon deck, the sun's blazing kaleidoscope as it dips below the shimmering horizon silences all conversation. Everything is enveloped by a deep peace and serenity. Your first Rarotongan sunset. A memory apart.
Tropical Gardens
Stop and smell the roses, says the old English proverb. Here at The Rarotongan, everything encourages you to stop and smell the frangipani. The lush tropical gardens here are filled with hibiscus, heliconia, gardenia (tiare maori), ginger, alamanda, banana, and frangipani, all under the canopy of elegant coconut palms. The vibrant colours of paradise call out to you: soulful yellows, pale pinks, ravishing reds, and energizing oranges, framed by the fresh greens of palms, taro leaves and soft carpets of grass. Framed by the backdrop of towering rainforest-clad mountains, and tracing the edge of Aroa Lagoon, the gardens here at The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa provide a peaceful haven to retreat, rest and relax.
Culture - Pacific Architecture
The islands of the South Pacific have a long history of innovative, resourceful and artistic architecture, and The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa celebrates that history in its design. Huge natural timbers, soaring dramatic ceilings, hand-tied artistic rope, thatched roofs, and weaved pandanus covered walls embrace the ancient building materials and techniques of our forebears, with all the modern amenities you would expect from a full-service four star resort.
Original Artworks
Showcase of Cook Islands Art, Crafts & Culture
At The Rarotongan you can experience the real Rarotonga right in your resort. Locally and independently-owned, The Rarotongan has a strong commitment to expressing the essence of the Cook Islands through showcasing the best these unique and exotic islands have to offer.
When you arrive, you are greeted by upright traditional staff gods in the porte cochere, carved from island hardwoods, and by two massive wooden carvings of Tangaroa, the ancient god of the sea, standing as sentinel as you enter the Resort Lobby. Within the Lobby, original art works adorn the walls. Kia Orana and welcome to The Rarotongan!
As you make your way around the resort during your stay, you will be greeted by many more examples of authentic Cook Islands culture. There are works by a number of Cook Islands painters including leading Rarotongan artist Mahiriki Tangaroa, exploring the fascinating story of our islands and our people. There are soaring lightshades of flowers, fish and many things, made of hand-painted fabrics or of translucent Cook Islands black pearl shell crafted by expert lighting designer Jesus de Navarre. There are massive wooden vaka (outrigger canoes) suspended from the ceiling, made by Rarotongan master carver Mike Tavioni and his team.
Within your room or suite, you will discover commissioned art works by talented painter Andi Merkens of evocative Cook Islands people and scenes. Each week The Rarotongan stages the island's best Island Night, 'Legends of Polynesia', which starts with the only traditional island night Umu Feast of island pork, beef, lamb, chicken, fish and local vegetables slow-cooked all afternoon in an authentic fire pit dug into the earth and layered with hot rocks and banana leaves. After the feasting enjoy a stunning performance of Cook Islands drumming and dancing.
Hear the Cook Island drums, like hearing the heartbeat of Mother Earth herself. See the riveting Cook Islands 'ura (hula) dancing, the finest dancers in the whole of the South Pacific. Experience the culture yourself. Our friendly Activities Team would be delighted to show you how to beat the Cook Islands wooden log drums (pa-tay), dance the 'ura, play the ukulele, tie your own island pareu (sarong), or make the Cook Islands favourite dish, ika mata (fresh gamefish tuna steeped in coconut milk, onion and a little chili).
Here at The Rarotongan you can discover and experience the essence of the Cook Islands, as we honour the rich culture of our past, and celebrate our vibrant, living culture of today.
Wood carving is a key pillar of Cook Islands artistic expression. The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa is proud to be the caretaker for future generations of a spectacular collection of Cook Islands wood carvings, displayed throughout the Resort's public areas. Admire the way elegant form and precise function combine seamlessly within the outrigger canoe paddles displayed in the Te Vaka Restaurant, whose soaring wooden ceiling is home to two carved vaka (outrigger canoes) which appear to glide through the air.
Compare heights as you stand beside the Lobby's life-size depictions of Tangaroa, the once highly-revered god of the sea and of fertility. Enjoy the sense of fluid motion of the dolphins caught in freeze-frame within the Reef Fish Café. Even the directional signs throughout the Resort are hand-carved. As your stay with us here at The Rarotongan unfolds, you will discover that your experience and appreciation of our living, breathing Cook Islands culture will unfold with it.
The art of tivaevae making is unique to the Cook Islands, and is another key pillar of Cook Islands artistic expression. Since quilt-making was introduced by Christian missionaries over a century ago, Cook Islands women have embraced it enthusiastically and with extraordinary skill, making it an essential part of local life and culture. Groups of women (vaine-tini) gather together in the villages to carefully cut, sew and share yarns, and the tivaevae they create are often bursting with the colours of the Pacific, sometimes over-sewn with intricate embroidery.
The patterns and designs depicted are almost always inspired by the beautiful flowers and plants of the Cook Islands, and much thought goes into selecting colours to achieve unique combinations and contrasts. Tivaevae are traditionally bestowed as gifts of love on such occasions such as weddings, births, baptisms, hair-cutting ceremonies (a traditional rite of passage for boys), 21st birthdays, funerals, or to honoured visitors. Many house-proud mamas also use tivaevae as decorations at home, sometimes draped over the sofas. More often though, beautifully and finely-crafted tivaevae are carefully stored in heavy wooden chests, to be brought out only on special occasions.
These lovingly-made works of art take many months or years to create, and are treasured heirlooms. Few are sold but if you are ever lucky enough to find one for sale you would expect to part with anything upwards of NZ$2000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the intricacy of the work and the level of attachment to it by the owner! Over the years The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa has maintained a commitment to collecting diverse examples of this unique Cook Islands art form.
During our 'Legends of Polynesia' Island Nights we proudly display examples from our collection within the TE VAKA Restaurant. Tivaevae from the Resort's prized private collection are also used to decorate our Treetops Verandah Room during such private events as wedding receptions or conferences held there. Art displayed within the Resort's guest-rooms and suites also depicts tivaevae.
The unique beauty of tivaevae and the way it captures the exotic colours and patterns of our special slice of paradise provides many hours of enjoyment. The Rarotongan is proud to act as a custodian of this integral aspect of Cook Islands culture.
Over the years The Rarotongan has brought together a diverse private collection of original works by a wide range of Cook Islands artists. These reflect the evolution of painting in the Cooks, a relatively recent form of artistic expression here. The paintings can be viewed around the resort's public areas, and include works by such noted artists as Mahiriki Tangaroa, Tim Manavaroa Buchanan, Loretta Reynolds, Kay George, Tereapii Rongo, Joan Rolls Gragg, Michael Tavioni, Dernice Rongo and Ian George.
The works include a triptych by Mahiriki Tangaroa in which she seeks to provide a visual narrative of the tapestry of events and icons surrounding the discovery and history of the Cook Islands, called "From darkness to light".
The key theme of Part One and a consistent theme across all three panels is a homage to the feat of oceanic navigation across vast distances achieved by the early Polynesian explorers, from the migration from South East Asia to Samoa, Tonga and thereafter the Cook Islands, to the continued navigational prowess which led to the Polynesian settlement of New Zealand. Throughout, the people held fast in their beliefs in the power of their traditional gods to safeguard them on their potentially perilous voyages of discovery.
The second panel visually documents the discovery of Tumutevarovaro (Rarotonga) by Karika from Samoa and Tangiia from Tahiti. They met at sea on their journey to Rarotonga, and decided that rather than fight over the island, they would split Rarotonga between them, a decision which continues to be reflected in the affairs of the island today. The panel also includes visual references to the fascinating pre-European star charts from the northern group island of Pukapuka.
Part three provides a painterly record of the sighting of Manuae by Captain James Cook in 1773, and his subsequent closer investigation of Manuae, Mangaia, Palmerston, Atiu and Takutea in 1777, which Captain Cook dubbed the Hervey Islands in honour of the First Lord of the British Admiralty of the time. Interestingly, Captain Cook never landed on Rarotonga.
Our People
There can be no denying that here in the Cook Islands we enjoy a very special slice of paradise indeed. Our islands are stunningly beautiful, our lagoons pristine, our beaches unspoiled. But it is the genuine warmth of our people that will prove to be the highlight of your stay at The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa.
Life in Rarotonga is what life was like in places like Hawaii or Tahiti 50 years ago. Neighbours with a true sense of community, no one in any great hurry, local Rarotongans stopping to enjoy life with one another. Rarotongans are some of the most approachable people on Earth, ready and willing to let you into their hearts and homes. Although at first some can seem a little shy, your interest in them and their lives will soon be richly rewarded as you are welcomed in to experience a slice of true Cook Islands living.


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Try the following link:
This site is dedicated to the most common errors found among speakers of Spanish who are learning English. It is not meant to be a complete grammar but mainly aimed at helping Spanish speaking students to avoid making these common mistakes. The site may also help English teachers who are planning to work in Latin America. The following points will be discussed:
-False Cognates
-Confusing Words
-Invented Words
-Perfect Tenses
-This/ These
-Adjectives vs adverbs
-Omission of Subject
-Other/ Another/ Others
-Comparative Forms
-Phrasal Verbs/ Prepositions
-Frequently Misspelled Words
-List of Irregular Verbs

subset: commoncrawl


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News – South East
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Howard County Executive Ken Ulman Thursday described Howard County as a "model for Maryland," citing its strong school system, business-friendly environment and financial commitment to the community.
"We make the right investments in education, open space and infrastructure, thereby creating thriving, sustainable communities. Through our choices and our decisions, we have created a model for Maryland," Ulman said at his seventh State of the County address.
More than 420 people watched Ulman deliver his speech during a luncheon sponsored by the Howard County Chamber of Commerce at Turf Valley Resort and Conference Center in Ellicott City.
Ulman said he was "more confident than ever" in the future of Howard County coming out of the recent economic crisis.
"The real estate market is improving and business growth is on the rise. Your county government is leaner, more nimble, more responsive and more focused," he said.
Ulman announced that Accuvant, a cybersecurity business, is expanding its operations and relocating its Hanover office in Anne Arundel County to Howard County later this year.
Accuvant's 70 employees will move to Dorsey Business Park, in Elkridge, and the company is expected to add 180 jobs over the next two years, Ulman said.
Ulman said cybersecurity is "huge" for the future of Howard County.
Cybersecurity companies are choosing Howard County because of its school system, quality of life and business-friendly environment, Ulman said.
"There's lot of other places they could go, but they're choosing Howard County," he said.
Frank McLallen, vice president of Accuvant's public sector division, said Accuvant chose Howard County for a number of reasons, including its location and talent pool.
McLallen said it would be easier to recruit employees because of the proximity to Washington, D.C., and the high level of educated county residents.
"People want to live here," McLallen said of Howard County.
Accuvant is targeting an April opening, according to McLallen.
Ulman praised the efforts of the county's public safety personnel over the last year as they responded to significant weather events, such as Hurricane Sandy and the Ellicott City train derailment.
He also took a moment to recognize the heroism of Cpl. Craig Ream, who earlier this month pulled a woman from a burning car. Ream, who was in attendance, received a standing ovation.
Ulman said he was proud of the quality of life in Howard County, which he said attracts and grows business.
He stressed that the county has the lowest unemployment rate in the state and, for the 15th consecutive year, received a AAA bond rating, the highest possible.
"Because of our strong fiscal management, a business-friendly climate and a focus on entrepreneurship, the county is on the leading edge in Maryland," he said.
Ulman also urged in his speech that county agencies, nonprofits and private businesses "put children first" in 2013.
With tragedies like the Newtown school shooting in Connecticut and bullying incidents locally, Ulman said he will focus on improved techniques for monitoring and reporting bullying and implement recommendations from a School Safety Task Force.
"Bullying and cyberbullying has created a very difficult environment for so many of our young people to be able to thrive," he said. "We need to continue to make progress towards the most nurturing, safe environment for our children."
Council member Calvin Ball said he agreed with Ulman that "in many ways we are" a model for Maryland.
Ball said the county should aspire to lead the nation in areas such as education, public safety and the environment
"Much of what we were working on over the last year is illustrative of those goals," he said.
Council member Courtney Watson said Ulman's speech reflected the priorities of county citizens, including education and public safety.
"People of Howard County are very proud of where they live," she said.
Watson said Ulman should be proud of the success he's had as county executive.
"It (Howard County) is certainly a model in many ways, such as the public education system," she said.


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Gameloft — known for releasing games eerily similar to some popular gaming titles out there — has released Modern Combat 4 on the Play Store. The game is the company's own copy of the popular Call Of Duty series for mobile devices. The game was released on iOS a few days ago, and was released on the Play Store just a few hours ago today.
Arm yourself for FPS action!
The #1 Action FPS game is back on smartphone with a new chapter to push the boundaries of mobile gaming even further. In the wake of nuclear warfare, the only chance to avoid global devastation is in the hands of the few elite soldiers who must track down and rescue the world's leaders from a frighteningly familiar terrorist group.
Modern Combat 4: Zero Hour is a typical Gameloft game with below-average controls — at least on smartphones, stellar graphics, a $6.99 price tag and requires a whopping 1.8GB+ of free space on your device. Considering that the game downloads the additional file from Gameloft's own server, making the 15-minute Play Store refund window useless.
The game will work on any Android 2.3 Gingerbread+ devices, but considering the quality of graphics, make sure you have a decently powerful smartphone or tablet before spending $6.99 on it.


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What Agni-V's success means to India.
Yesterday, India conducted a successful test of the much-awaited Agni-V nuclear-capable missile off Wheeler Island, Orissa. Agni-V incorporates advanced technologies including composite rocket motors and micro-navigation systems, and has a range of over 5,000 km. The test itself is the most significant technological demonstrator of India's evolving nuclear capability since the Pokhran tests of 1998.
By all standards, yesterday's test was a long time coming. Hindered by high-technology denial regimes led primarily by the U.S., India's strategic missiles program has experienced delays and setbacks over the course of the last 15 years. However, the absence of criticism from the U.S. on yesterday's test is a testament to how far the Indo-U.S. bilateral relationship has come since Pokhran. As Shashank Joshi notes, "[i]f this had happened 15 years ago, it would have been condemned by the U.S."
However, it is important to exercise caution and not get unduly carried away with yesterday's successful test. Unfortunately, India's mainstream media has displayed misguided, almost vulgar bellicosity in its reporting of the success of Agni-V. The same mainstream media that claimed that India wasn't even prepared for war against Pakistan just two weeks ago, was all set to launch a punitive nuclear attack against China yesterday. Some TV news channels also featured animated videos of Agni-V hitting targets in China! This shrillness, empty rhetoric and lack of credible analysis do a tremendous disservice to the profession of journalism and to the people of India.
Yes, Agni-V was an important step, but India has many more significant challenges to overcome in the evolution of its nuclear capability. The significance of Agni-V ties directly with India's "No First Use" (NFU) nuclear doctrine, which requires a mature secondary-strike capability for any NFU position to be credible. Effectively, a secondary-strike capability means having the ability to retaliate in an imposed nuclear war via land (typically, missiles), air (strategic bombers) and sea (submarines).
However, two of the three legs of India's "nuclear triad" are only just evolving. Agni-V's successful launch notwithstanding, it will take several years before it can be fully inducted into India's armed forces. As India's stature and interests on the global stage grow, there will be a need in the future for adequately consider and account for threats beyond its shores and neighborhood. This will mean the development of missiles with ranges longer than Agni-V, which will take not only advanced technological expertise to achieve, but also considerable political will.
India's sea-based deterrent is also lagging. Since India's first indigenous nuclear-powered submarine, Arihant, was revealed about two years ago, its operationalization has been significantly impacted by delays in its sea trials. It is unlikely therefore, that it can be inducted into the armed forces before 2014. Moreover, India's submarine-based ballistic missile program is at a nascent stage. While the short-range SLBM Sagarika (K-15) has undergone some trials, the longer-range K-4 is still under development and is unlikely to be ready for tests in the next 4-5 years, going by previous record. This means that India is unlikely to realistically have a credible sea-based deterrence before 2020.
India's avowed position of never employing a nuclear weapon first in combat means that it must develop its secondary-strike capability with purpose. It can ill-afford to go through additional iterations of lethargy and ineffectual decision-making in operationalizing and maturing its nuclear triad. Naturally, India's nuclear arsenal must also quantitatively and qualitatively evolve to reflect current and emerging threats. The value of nuclear weapons and their delivery systems lies in convincing adversaries of their credibility and ability to inflict unacceptable damage in retaliation, should the need arise. The need of the hour therefore is to focus on these aspects rather than engage in injudicious and myopic chest-thumping.


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JOHANNESBURG – The first matchday of Group C is in the books, and we now have a bit better idea of what the US need to do to advance. Here are five things we learned:
1. The Americans have their heads screwed on straight. One of the biggest questions marks coming into this World Cup was how the US would respond to the pressure. Would they open play as they did four years ago, folding early against the Czech Republic? Or would they be the composed unit that made it to the Confederations Cup final?
The draw with England showed the latter – at least to a degree. The US conceded first again and still need to figure out a way to finish their chances, but all in all, you couldn't ask for much more against a team like England.
The Americans played superb defense, did better in possession than many thought and created a few chances of their own. Despite giving up the early goal, this performance is what we needed to see.
2. Oguchi Onyewu looks better than we thought. Gooch was a huge question mark heading into this World Cup, recovering from that awful knee injury that had kept him out of action since last October. But he looked mostly solid against England, stepping for several key stops.
No, he didn't play flawlessly – he was beaten a couple times and was bailed out by both Jay DeMerit and Michael Bradley, who tracked back repeatedly – but to see Onyewu play a full 90 is encouraging. His toughest challenge in the group stage is probably out of the way. The US will need a fully fit Gooch if they face Germany or Ghana in the round of 16.
3. Landon Donovan backed up his promise. The US' biggest star has promised repeatedly that he would bring it for this World Cup and that he learned from his mistakes of '06. Based on one performance, he wasn't lying.
Donovan played much deeper against England than he has in any game in recent memory, with more defensive responsibilities. But he did get forward enough to provide Jozy Altidore with the US' two best chances.
If Donovan keeps playing this selflessly, and still effectively, the Americans should be in good shape.
4. Slovenia and Algeria are asking to be beaten. Neither team showed particularly much in their opener on Sunday. But Slovenia in particular will step up their game to face the US, and the Americans need to take them seriously.
Still, providing they can mark Valter Birsa – who looks like Slovenia's biggest threat – and avoid any mental lapses, Friday's game is there for the taking.
Algeria, on the other hand, look disastrous. Les Fennecs are their own worst enemy, as they have shown again and again that their own mental mistakes cost them dearly. As long as the US aren't baited by Algeria's gamesmanship (I'm looking at you, Michael Bradley), this is another game to be won.
5. The Rustenburg Revival lives. The US is still holding up that Confed Cup run as their inspiration in their return trip to South Africa. They've said all week that their comfort level here has helped them acclimate. But more so, that they learned a great deal about themselves last summer – starting with their turnaround match against Egypt at Royal Bafokeng Stadium.
"The first two games we played against Italy and Brazil, we really weren't happy with the way we had played," Clint Dempsey told MLSsoccer.com on Saturday after the England match. "So we came out against Egypt with a mentality that, hey, we're going to take a few risks – calculated risks – and I think that's kind of how we play now."


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Following the big release date shakeup of Paramount moving G.I. Joe: Retaliation to March 2013 and Ted taking the film's June 29th slot, 20th Century Fox has announced two release date shifts of its own. Briefly:
- Fox moves Ang Lee's 3D adaptation of Life of Pi up from December 21st to November 21st.
- Director Shawn Levy's comedy The Internship, starring Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn, will open on June 28th, 2013
Hit the jump for more on each film.
Firstly, Fox has moved Lee's Life of Pi out of the incredibly crowded month of December and has given it an awards-friendly November 21st release date. Footage was screened from the 3D pic to a rapturous response at this year's CinemaCon, with many already weighing the film's Oscar chances. Yann Martel's highly acclaimed book tells the story of a boy named Pi (played by newcomer Suraj Sharma), who gets stranded at sea for 227 days with a Bengal tiger named Richard Parker, a hyena, a zebra, and an orangutan. The film should find success on the same weekend that launched Martin Scorsese's Hugo.
On the November 21st date, the pic will now face off against the Red Dawn remake, the incredibly promising DreamWorks Animation film Rise of the Guardians, director David O. Russell's The Silver Linings Playbook starring Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence, and the Billy Crystal/Bette Midler comedy Parental Guidance.
Additionally, Fox has set a prime summer date of June 28th for Shawn Levy's (Night at the Museum) comedy The Internship. The film reunites Wedding Crashers stars Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn as two old-fashioned salesman who find themselves interning at a major tech company after suddenly becoming unemployed. Filming begins next month, and when Levy spoke with Steve last year he was leaning towards an R-rating for the film (make it so, Mr. Levy).
The only other film currently slated for June 28th is the supernatural action-comedy R.I.P.D. starring Ryan Reynolds and Jeff Bridges. Opening a week earlier is the Brad Pitt-fronted World War Z and Pixar's Monsters University, and the following Fourth of July weekend will most assuredly be dominated by Steven Spielberg's Robopocalypse.


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With all due respect, Fuzzy, the spells to which Thealis is reffering is combat damage spells. As I understood it, Chime mostly used enchantment spells, which are unaffected by total HP.
Since all creatures use maximum HD, they have usually 40-50% more HP than they would in P&P, where each hit-die is rolled, usually resulting in 'average HP' for each monster being half of the die-size times the number of die, instead of the maximum die-roll times the number of die.
Since offensive damage spells (blast-casts) were not modified to suit, they still deal half their damage on average. Where in P&P a fireball worth 10d6 (average 33, max 60) damage has a reasonable chance of killing a level 10 rogue (10 d6 HD: average 33, max 60 + con) who failed save, it never will one-shot in NWN2 (rogue has 60+con HP).
Such is what is meant by spells in NWN2 being less effective.
Power-Words are also significantly nerved, for similar reasons (level 20 fighter laughs at your feeble 100 HP requirement for PW: Kill and PW: Petrify, even after two IGMS to the face) . Any spell not reliant on direct HP for effect, however, is generally unaffacted.
Really looking forward to this going live, I miss real RP, plots and story.
A level 10 rogue with only 33 hp was made wrong. Means a 10 con, which is pretty much purposefully making a low HP character weaker on purpose. With an average con of 14 with gear, he'd have (33+2/lvl[20]=53) HP, which is enough to survive almost any fireball thrown at him on the low chance he fails that save. I actually don't see the downside to someone being unable to murder large mobs with low level magic. To be honest, most of the monsters on the server we all fight average around 140-200 hp per mob at the level 20 area, excluding anything in IWD content. Which, as anyone who has played level 15+ DND will tell you, is not super high HP. A caster specializing in artillery magic shouldn't be able to one shot the field with one spell. What he DOES is score a huge chunk off the enemy to start before they close the gap, thus massively shortening the fight and still overall doing more damage in the fight then the fighter does, since he's cleaning up what the caster left. There is a reason almost every spell does either 1d4/lvl or 1d6/lvl of damage, and it's specifically so that monsters and players are likely to SURVIVE being hit by one at full HP.
All I am saying is that the damaging magic is fine where it is. Creature HP isn't really that far outside of our capability for them to contribute a LOT to the fight. Enchanters and illusionists are save for nothing, so are necromancers too for the most part. Transmuters too. Basically every other school of magic is save for nothing, or save for a minimal effect. No other school of magic goes "My spell is save for half, which can still be a solid number of damage points" or even "You get no save, you take damage period." Only evokers and the conjurers, the two schools specializing in damage numbers, do this. They are doing just fine with damage.
As for the level 20 fighter being safe from a PW after two IGMS's....good. If a fighter can not soak, with gear and not even that great a CON score, an average of 150 damage and still have over 100 hp left, then he's a paper-mache of a fighter. And I mean that in PNP DND, not just on the server. Most fighters should be around upper 260's or near 300 hp as a PNP character with gear, since PNP gear is FAR superior to NWN2 gear.
But, don't fret, because with the LVL cap going back to a soft 15, power word spells will still be useful against them after a good solid nuke to the face. But I don't think spells need to be reworked so that artillery mage's can solo the content with one spell per group. Our content should encourage grouping to survive it, and I believe it does so with the HD being maximized for mobs and players.
Something that could be done to help evokers and conjurer's out without seeing a gigantic power creep (By like, doubling the damage they do) would be giving a buff to the Spell Focus feats to give +2 DC each instead of +1. This wouldn't offer a buff to hard no-save damage spells like IGMS, but it would offer 10% more consistent numbers for fireballs and a number of the lesser-used evocation spells.
In PvP every class / build has some means of mitigating evokers anyways, be it improved evasion, energy immunity, or just a burly mountain of HP, or some combination of two or even three of the aforementioned.
I do feel like the damage school in terms of /reflex save spells is a little on the weak side right now, but I can also see how over buffing it could turn into a new series of 'win button' scenario's for casters in PvP.
I'm less concerned about how good they are at grinding mobs, there are certainly better classes to contribute to/solo a dungeon run at high levels then a wizard/sorcerer focused around evocation, even with DC or dice buffs.
I'm guessing Clive is/was the most powerful divine caster ever on the server.
Offensive spells were never a worry for him, he feared swords wielded by paladin's and in turn killed with a sword most of the time.
Offensive magic isn't a threat, debuffing was the most dangerous magic. But a wizard can't debuff enough before he dies under a sword.
Magic isn't over powered. Sure if you stand around and let a character buff up or cast spell after spell again you then you will die. A good adamantine weapon is the answer to any battle.
My point by point comments. I apologize in advance if I'm blunt at any point, I'm just giving my honest opinion:
1. We're moving the level cap back. Current projection is a soft 15 (monsters, RP XP) and a hard 20 (advancement quests, DM XP). Rather than delevel existing PCs, it's much easier to start with new. I feel this is fine. I'm old enough to remember when there was a hard cap at 15, and there were no issues. I will say, I'd like for 20 to be obtainable for non-power builds. Before/currently, 23 is tempting but basically unobtainable without being able to consistently grind the high level repeatable quest. There's DM exp, but I never once got enough exp from a DM to realistically reach higher than 21.
2. We're untangling snarled story threads. Moving the timeline and clearing out old PCs lets us start fresh and gives more PCs an opportunity to get involved in what's going on. Yeah, it's probably about time for this. I would hope/presume this means no re-creating old characters. I'd like to see a truly fresh start.
3. We're redoing item balance. A new cap means new item standards, and this will get rid of all of the old items we don't want running around anymore. Please remember to remove all the junk items from the loot tables. Those chain gloves.
1. Finished crafting. All recipes will be functional, all materials will be accessible through drops, nodes, and stores. Crafting will be a reliable way to keep your character competitively equipped. Nothing needs to be said, except that I hope this finally includes skills such as cooking. Really looking forward to this.
2. Class improvements. Look for further boosts to Rogues, Barbarians, and a host of prestige classes. I'll personally be keeping an eye on MoMF. It's one of the few PrCs unique to Sundren and I really, really enjoy the RP chances it gives, but it suffers in combat, especially if you lower the level cap.
3. Faction reorganization. Factions will be based around the four major cities (Sundren City, Port Avanthyr, Aquor, Sestra). Again biased by previous characters I've made, but I'm hoping druids and rangers still have a faction and ideally a store.
4. Competitive faction control points. We're developing a system that will allow factions to dynamically compete for control of certain areas. Capturing these areas will be a means to increase faction reputation and will provide access to special stores, crafting resource nodes, and even dungeons. I'm mostly hoping this doesn't create excessive PvP, but I consider this a really delicate change, because players shouldn't be discouraged from joining underplayed factions or feel forced to join a particular faction for the opposite reason.
5. Deeper dungeons. You thought killing the Goblin Chief was the end of it? Think again. Nothing needs to be said here, more content is always praise-worthy.
Re: Magic debate, I think Torgar and me/Kit are arguing from very different perspectives. I don't engage in PvP very often. I find that in PvP whoever gets in the first shot generally wins, whether it's the Wizard with a Bigby's or the Fighter with an attack bonus that greatly exceeds the AC of a buffed Sor/Wiz.
My gripe with magic is that it isn't very useful in a party except for buffing then following along invisibly.
Evocation spells do not in any way shape or form do "solid damage". A meteor swarm does about 84 damage, 42 if they save. If you cast three of them you can kill most of the enemies in an average spawn in Whurest. Don't believe me? Go and test it yourself. Meanwhile, you damage your own party, unless of course you prepared five Energy Immunity spells.
Magic is already fine for soloing, albeit using cheesy spells bugged to give 20 AC higher than they should. Wouldn't removing the cheese from Shapeshift alone more than balance out a small boost to offensive spells?
EDIT: Sorry for derailing!! OP is awesome and of course in all respects praiseworthy! This is my final post, promise :D
On the matter at hand, will Faction Control Points have a hook into GBX' Faction Wealth system? I remember that being implemented with the intent that it could fluctuate depending on politics, but I never saw that happen.
But, you are correct about being on topic. I'm sorry! I am pretty excited about the new faction set up. I and interested to see if there will be alignment associated with cities or how all that will play out.
I am really excited to see item rebalancing too. Does this mean Sundren will be a low magic server or is that yet to be determined?
Pickpocket: please get rid of that, met a person who played here six years ago and only for a day due to some jerk stealing her weapons and she could not afford new ones.
This is a really nice server, the amount of work that was put into it is just nuts, was talking to a mapper for Dalelands and she said she could never make things as beautiful they are here. My Bottom line is: lets do things that will bring people back and keep them from leaving.
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Spornette International: The Ruby Brush CollectionDecember 18, 2012
This hairbrush line is made of up of a paddle brush, a cushion brush and a rounder that embrace Asian culture with rich colors, motifs and a message on the back that means beautiful. The tourmaline-nylon bristles help condition hair and create a natural shine to follicles. Call 800.323.6449 or visit www.spornette.com.


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Dear Sgt. Shaft:
I am currently 56 and have to wait until 60 to draw my retired pay. I am drawing Social Security Disability and have Medicare. I am also married.
I have read that I may qualify for TRICARE For Life now. When I see a TRICARE representative, they tell me I do not. (TRICARE is the health care program serving uniformed service members, retirees and their families worldwide.)
Do I or do I not qualify for TRICARE For Life now based on my disability with Medicare?
Thank you, Richard P. USAR (retired)
Dear Richard P.:
No, you do not qualify for TRICARE For Life (TFL). To qualify for TFL you have to be TRICARE eligible. You become TRICARE eligible at age 60.
If you are still on Medicare at that time, you will be qualified and enrolled in TFL as long as you are enrolled in both Parts A and B Medicare. Your eligibility for Medicare alone does not make you TRICARE eligible.
Shaft notes
• Kudos to Valley Forge Military Academy for the announcement of a new scholarship program for the sons of disabled or deceased U.S. veterans.
Valley Forge Military Academy has partnered with NewDay USA Foundation to provide scholarships to the sons of 100 percent disabled or deceased U.S. veterans. The scholarships are need-based and will cover most of the cost of attending VFMA for new or returning students who qualify.
NewDay USA and Valley Forge Military Academy are committed to our nation's wounded warriors and to those families of our fallen service men and women.
Many of our nation's veterans' families are living well below their honor and dignity, and a gift of tuition to these families from NewDay USA provides the opportunity for their sons to obtain a top-notch education at a prestigious, private military school.
These scholarships are available now, and will be applied to the applicants' 2013-14 tuition. The admissions counselors are available to speak with prospective applicants and their families to help determine if they are eligible for this scholarship, and to assist them with the application process.
Contact the Office of Academy Admissions at 1-866-923-VFMA (8362) or email@example.com.
For more information about the scholarship program, click on http://www.vfmac.edu/academy-financial-aid/academy-paying-for-the-academy-scholarships/.
• Rep. Gus M. Bilirakis joined Rep. Tom Rooney, Rep. Kurt Schrader and Rep. Ron Barber as an original co-sponsor of the Protecting Veterans Pensions Act.
The bill combats scams against retired veterans and strengthens the Veterans Affairs (VA) pension program.
"As Vice-Chairman of the Veterans' Affairs Committee and Co-Chairman of the Military Veterans Caucus, I am working to ensure our veterans receive the benefits, care and opportunity they've earned," said Mr. Bilirakis, a Florida Republican. "I am proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing this legislation that will better protect our nation's heroes from scams and those who try to take advantage of or mislead them."
The bipartisan bill addresses a common scam called "pension poaching," in which:
* Unethical financial advisors and firms prey on elderly and disabled veterans by promising to help them qualify for VA pension benefits if they divert their assets into trusts or annuities.
* The firms profit from those trusts or annuities, but they are often poor investments for seniors. As a result, victims lose access to their savings in exchange for a small pension. Meanwhile, the pension fund is drained for veterans in need.
* These firms further profit by charging veterans exorbitant fees and selling them additional, costly services.
Since VA only considers net worth at the time a veteran applies for benefits, the Department cannot determine if an applicant has diverted their assets in order to qualify. The Protecting Veterans Pensions Act would close this loophole; put a stop to pension poaching; and shore up the VA pension fund by creating a three-year "look-back" period to determine eligibility.
"As a veteran myself, I am outraged by the actions of those who would prey on America's elderly and disabled veterans," said Mr. Rooney, a Florida Republican. "These financial predators are scamming elderly veterans out of their life savings, while undermining the VA pension program for the veterans who rely on it. By creating a three-year look-back period, we can put an end to this fraud against our nation's heroes while strengthening the VA pension program."
"This bipartisan legislation would safeguard veterans and their families from predatory financial advisers, who are abusing taxpayer money and selling veterans unnecessary and costly financial products," said Mr. Schrader, an Oregon Democrat. "These scams have no place in our society and by closing this shameful loophole we can show both veterans and taxpayers that we stand with them in protecting their best financial interests."
"I am honored to represent a district in which more than 80,000 veterans live," said Mr. Barber, an Arizona Democrat. "But I understand that with that honor comes the responsibility to ensure that veterans who stepped forward to serve our nation are not defrauded when they become civilians. I will not allow 'pension poachers' to take advantage of our veterans."
The legislation reflects concerns from veterans and is line with recommendations from a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report, which noted that more than 200 companies market financial services to veterans to help them qualify for VA pensions by repositioning their assets into trusts and annuities.
• An amendment authored by U.S. Sen. Patty Murray to help track school progress of students from military-connected families was adopted as part of a major Senate education overhaul. The amendment passed in the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee's markup of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) by a bipartisan vote of 13 to 9.
• Send letters to Sgt. Shaft, c/o John Fales, P.O. Box 65900, Washington, D.C. 20035-5900; fax 301/622-3330, call 202/257-5446 or email email@example.com.


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Anaphoric Expressions of EFL Speakers in Cameroon
This paper examines how francophone learners of English in Cameroon use and interpret anaphoric expressions [with regard to the theoretical framework of Chomsky (1981) which characterises the behaviour of anaphors, pronouns and referential expressions in terms of the Binding Theory]. In order to investigate this, three production tasks were designed - the sentence translation task (STT), the multiple choice task (MCT) and the gap test task (GTT) - to elicit specific answers in the respondents' use and interpretation of these expressions. A total of 73 respondents performed all the tasks. The findings reveal that respondents do not deploy purely English feature specifications in their use and interpretation of anaphoric expressions, as in a considerable number of instances they do not adopt the feature of structural dependency in the processing of co-reference. The phenomenon of language transfer and or influence apparently plays a significant role in this milieu.
Full Text:PDF
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5296/ijl.v4i2.1797
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MMOGamesVS.com website contains all the best MMO and MMORPG Online Games, free to play, with full details: description, overview, reviews, videos, pictures and screenshots.
You will also find a full list of MMO games, casual games list, browser games list and facebook games lists, free online games, free online games download.
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- This event has passed.
Pathfinder Tabletop RPG
August 5, 2019 @ 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm
|Recurring Event (See all)
An event every week that begins at 4:00 pm on Monday, repeating until December 31, 2019
Join us every Monday for a Pathfinder tabletop RPG session. Players are continuing the campaign led by a game master who facilitates the players on their adventure with their characters. Feel free to drop in and join the adventure!
Parking is available in the Worth Lot behind the store for $1.50/hour, with meters operating until 8:00pm. Candy and drinks are available in the store for purchase. You may bring your own food but please dispose of your trash properly. Thank you!


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The ultimate paramilitary crossover continues in the fifth(!) chapter of Modern War Gear Solid, which has already merged the worlds of Metal Gear Solid, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare and Halo into one ridiculously amusing soup.
In the latest (and final?) episode, things reach even more ludicrous heights as Ghost battles Kotickovitch, Snake evolves the cardboard box and the light sabers finally come out. Is this the end of the universe-bending parody series?!
If you missed the Modern War Gear Solid at any point, head over to Beatdown Boogie's YouTube page to catch up or just wait for the inevitable DVD.


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Actively managed ETFs
For nearly 20 years, all exchange-traded funds (ETFs) brought to the market replicated well-known benchmark indexes. In 2003, Powershares introduced the first ETFs that followed quantitative indexes based on active management strategies. Actively managed ETFs invest in a portfolio of securities that is subjectively chosen by a fund manager on their own rather than following a rules-based index. The idea is to perform better than a benchmark index through flexible active management.
Actively managed ETFs are registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as an investment company. The actively managed ETF would list its shares on a national securities exchange, and investors would trade the ETF shares throughout the day at various prices in the secondary market. The problem with active ETFs is in the daily reporting of positions and reporting the intraday price without giving away exactly what the fund manager is doing.
Every active ETF on the market today must disclose holdings daily. The underlying concept behind an actively managed ETF is that the portfolio manager will be able to adjust the portfolio as needed or desired while not being subject to the set rules of an index. The active manager aims to beat a benchmark and has to devise trading models and strategies to do so. Because very few portfolio managers are willing to divulge their next portfolio move for fear of front-running by other investors, ETFs with active portfolio managers have been slow to gain a foothold.
Advantages to actively managed ETFs
- The most talked-about benefit of actively managed ETFs is the opportunity to outperform indexes that other ETFs follow.
- The biggest benefit in actively managed ETFs will go to investors who would otherwise invest in a comparable actively managed open-end fund. An actively managed ETF would likely charge less than its open-end counterpart because the structure allows ETF companies to eliminate many client services and to reduce the cost of some administrative services.
- If a fund company introduced an actively managed ETF that closely tracked the performance of actively managed open-end funds, investors who frequently trade the open-end fund might choose to use the ETF because there would be no minimum required hold time (currently 30 days on most open-end fund purchases).
- Like index ETFs, the share creation and redemption process would make the actively managed ETF more tax-efficient than a traditional active open-end structure. This could be the biggest selling point of the funds.
- Flexibility is another key benefit. Like index ETFs, actively managed ETFs allow investors to trade throughout the day, including short sales and buying on margin.
Disadvantages to actively managed ETFs
- Fund companies are required to disclose their holdings on a daily basis for actively managed ETFs to function properly. The authorized participants (APs) need a fund composition file each day that lists the securities to turn in for a creation unit.
- Disclosure could be a problem for larger funds and funds that hold illiquid securities. In an open-end fund, active managers go to great lengths to conceal their holdings and camouflage trades so that competitors do not take advantage of their activity. Full disclosure hinders an active manager's ability to implement a fund's strategy since other investors figure out the manager's intent and front-run trades, thus diluting potential profit opportunities for ETF shareholders and escalating losses. In addition, investors could free-ride and exploit a skilled manager's research at no cost. The public would have access to daily fund information without purchasing ETF shares. Active manager skill is rare and highly valued in the investment management industry. If an actively managed ETF manager had skill, it would not be long before free-riders would tag along and dilute returns. Actively managed ETF managers may be reluctant to make adjustments in the portfolio for fear of front-runners and other traders in the marketplace. That reluctance could hurt ETF shareholders. All of these issues would reduce the competitive advantage of actively managed ETFs and reduce investors' incentive to use actively managed ETFs over less-exposed traditional open-end mutual funds.
- Actively managed ETFs may develop large premiums or discounts to NAV on volatile trading days. With index ETFs, authorized participants (APs) have been able to minimize the possibility of arbitrage by releasing or redeeming shares as a way of controlling inventory and, therefore, prices. Any time a price disparity becomes apparent in an index ETF, it immediately gets traded away. Actively managed ETFs are a concern because the APs may not be able to maintain the same kind of control. It is difficult to hedge positions without knowing exactly what the underlying securities in an actively managed ETF are during the day, and that may lead to wide price disparities.
- Large price disparities are particularly likely to happen if an ETF's last trade occurs well before the market close. At that, the underlying securities in the ETF might have already moved the fund's intraday value away from its last trade price. The media will pick up on the large disparities, and the investing public will become outraged.
It's important to note that expense ratios are different for actively managed funds as opposed to index-tracking ETFs. Investors should expect costs to be higher.


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MAKING OF: RWC 1911 M.E.U. Pistol CNC Metal Version
-Realistic feel and weight
-Immense accuracy and good power
-Good blowback with economic gas mileage
-Umm... Price?
A full metal pistol with CNC-machined
As we predicted in our comparison review featuring the Tokyo Marui M.E.U Pistol, there would be metal kits for that model. Well, certain metal kits made for the regular 1911 could be used as well, but now we have a specific M.E.U-kit from PGC with full trademarks and detail. Time to build another RedWolf Custom gun in the CNC-fashion!
The PGC kit includes quite a bit of parts and most of the Tokyo Marui parts are completely usable. (The only thing we could fault with the Tokyo Marui was that the frame, slide and outer barrel were plastic and lacked proper markings...) In addition we decided to use the PDI Winter type piston head, which has altered dimensions to provide a longer blowback stroke. It is useful not only in cold weather, but specially with metal slides as well.
As usual with PGC, the parts that are supposed to fit directly do exactly that. The amount of unnecessary fitting with this kit was a round zero. The mag catch, grip panels, magazine, beavertail grip safety, safety levers and other parts fit together like they are supposed to, and for the most parts the process is just reassembly with a different part after disassembly.
When you finally fit the outer barrel assembly, slide assembly and frame assembly together, the fit will be initially tight, and some delicate filing and honing is required as the finishing touch where necessary. After this is done with patience and skill, the result is almost no play between the parts, but a butter-smooth slide action when you rack and shoot the pistol.
The fin below the chamber was filed to allow the rear of the outer barrel to tilt down earlier, and the rear plate behind the blowback chamber was stronly modified (see picture) to allow the hammer to push the valve knocker fully. Without the latter modification, the valve lock would not engage the valve knocker, and blowback was very short as a result. Other than this and the instructed modification of the leaf spring, no further work on the material was required.
So how does it shoot? Thanks to the tight fit between the parts, the accuracy remained at the same excellent level as originally - which does not always go without saying when you install aftermarket metal parts. The tight fit together with the well-sealing PDI piston head improved gas seal between the magazine and loading nozzle, and the velocity was bumped up to 310 fps average as a result. The first peak shot was 316 fps, and after that were consistent between 312 fps and 308 fps. Green gas and 0.2 gram BBs were used at room temperature.
We include both a stiffer PGC spring as well as the original recoil spring with the pistol, so you can tune the pistol to your preference and the environment. The stronger one will appeal to those who want some resistance when racking the slide and a snappy return, while the original one allows you to shoot the full amount (28) of BBs and still lock back after the final round!
In the review of the Tokyo Marui M.E.U. Pistol, we could only fault it for the plastic parts that made the pistol lightweight, and lack of markings. With the PGC metal kit, PDI Winter piston head and a skilled installation job, we dare to say it is Perfect! The pistol is available as a completed model under RedWolf Custom Guns, or you can purchase the parts separately to test your skills as a gunsmith!
The PGC MEU kit and the RWC 1911 M.E.U. Pistol will be available for pre-order soon. Please check our home page regularly!


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Alamo Service Connection (ASC) Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC)
AACOG's Bexar Area Agency on Aging (BAAA) serves the City of San Antonio and Bexar County. The agency is dedicated to building a community that supports older residents and allows them to age in place with dignity, security, and enhanced quality of life.
The range of services provided include, but are not limited to, Medicare, Social Security, legal aid, health and wellness training, assistance for family caregivers, senior centers, recreation, congregate meals, home-delivered meals, home visits by a social worker, adult protective services (APS), home repairs, in-home supportive services, emergency financial assistance, and access to transportation services.
BAAA & the Alamo Service Connection
BAAA operates the Alamo Service Connection, an information, referral, and assistance system for seniors, people with disabilities, and their families. ASC helps them navigate the complex system of services offered by government agencies, nonprofits, and other service providers. ASC has an extensive database on its website, which is supported by systems navigators in the ASC call center. Systems navigators help callers explore options for handling problems related to aging and disability and recommend resources and strategies for problem resolution.
(see video)
The BAAA is funded primarily by the Administration on Aging through the Older Americans Act, which is administered by the Texas Department of Health & Human Services. BAAA also receives some state general revenue funds, matching funds, grants, contributions, and private sector sponsorships. Local donations and grants help BAAA support seniors when government funding is unavailable. For more information on donating, contact the BAAA at (210) 477-3275.


text: Breadcrumb Home News February 09, 2013 06:00 AM A brief history of Chicago hip-hop Tweet Share Share Email More Reprints Print "I Am Hip Hop: The Chicago Hip Hop Documentary" photo by R.Raven. Other photos from: Associated Press, Corbis, Getty Images, Bloomberg News and Newscom. RECOMMENDED FOR YOU Trump announces $13 billion in farm aid How to manage business risks better When to stop working from home? How about never, say workers. Sponsored Content: Diversity Programs Foster Well-Rounded Education Sign up for newsletters Morning 10 - Need-to-know stories from Crain's and around the web. Monday-Friday at 7 a.m. Today's Crain's - A roundup of the day's important business news. Monday-Friday around 3 p.m. Breaking News Alerts - Up-to-the-minute info on what's happening in Chicago business right now. Health Pulse Chicago - Your source for actionable, exclusive and inside news and data on the health care industry. Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 5:30 a.m. People on the Move - Highlights prominent personalities, job changes and executive appointments. Thursday. Chicago Real Estate Report - The best source in Chicago for exclusive commercial real estate news. Monday-Thursday. Chicago Residential Real Estate Report - Scoops on Chicago's residential real estate industry. Tuesday-Thursday. EMAIL ADDRESS Please enter a valid email address. Please enter your email address. Please select at least one newsletter to subscribe. View the discussion thread.


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Pan Sets
Every home cook needs an excellent quality pan set. At Circulon, we have a large variety of non-stick pan sets - perfect for replacing or adding to your current cookware collection. Our pan sets are available in a variety of materials, and in sets of 3, 5 and 8 pieces, or as part of our Ultimate range. Get all the quality cookware you need in one go with a classic-looking, highly durable pan set from Circulon.


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Oxford, United Kingdom Hogrefe Ltd
Founded in 1984 as The Test Agency Ltd
Part of the Hogrefe Publishing Group since 2003
General Manager Pamela Becker
About us
Based in culture-rich Oxford, Hogrefe Ltd is the UK arm of the Hogrefe Group and focuses particularly on the development and delivery of purpose-built psychometric assessments and bespoke training. We are customer-centric psychometrics experts committed to the highest standards of test development and delivery.
Core Products and Activities
Hogrefe Ltd provides high-quality psychometric assessments and training in the areas of occupational, clinical and educational psychology – from ability and personality to neuropsychology and child development, we have an assessment for almost every need. Our Hogrefe Consulting branch offers psychometric solutions and feedback services.
Based in Oxford, Hogrefe Ltd has been developing and publishing psychometric assessments and bespoke organisational selection and development solutions for well over a decade. In 2003, Hogrefe Publishing Group acquired The Test Agency, a UK psychometric publisher founded in 1984. Our clients now include UK corporations, the public sector and business and healthcare consultancies. Our success is built on ensuring that the tests and solutions we provide deliver comprehensive, cost effective results. We are constantly improving our products and services, as well as the platforms they are delivered on.
Hogrefe Ltd
Hogrefe House
Albion Place
United Kingdom
+44 (0)1865 797920


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Even then, a name seemingly coined on the spot as Frank Lloyd Wright hurried to finish his blueprints for the Kaufmann family-embodied the vision of a house that would revolutionize the world of architecture and become an iconic western Pennsylvania landmark.
At a time when Pittsburgh was a haven for industry and opportunity, Fallingwater reflected a blend of eccentricity, modernism, and courage. Edgar Kaufmann, Sr. was the owner of Kaufmann's, one of the most profitable retail stores in the United States, and was regarded as a charismatic, respected, and business savvy gentleman. During the Great Depression, he played a role in New Deal public works programs. During that time, he met Frank Lloyd Wright and immediately was intrigued by his enlightened ideas and unorthodox tastes.
Edgar and Liliane, his wife, built a modest weekend house in 1921 at Bear Run. With its cascading waters and steep stone ledges, the Kaufmanns found the area to be ideal, the landscape beautiful, and Bear Run's falls majestic. During the next decade, the couple spent an increasing amount of time there. By 1933, they owned 1,914 acres and decided to build a more suitable home. Thus, Fallingwater was conceived.
The main house was constructed between 1936–1938, and a guest house was added in 1939. Some of the unusual attributes of Fallingwater are its terraces, which total 2,445 square feet; floating stairs that lead to pools; and even beams that were re-shaped to allow trees to stay where they were. Most notably, Fallingwater is built and protrudes over a 30-foot waterfall, where rushing waters and soothing sounds reflect the very essence of Fallingwater.
When Edgar, Sr. passed away in 1955, his son inherited the home and continued to use it as a mountain retreat until the early 1960s. Wanting to be sure it was preserved correctly, Edgar, jr. (the lowercase 'j' was his chosen distinction) entrusted Fallingwater to the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy.
Since 1964, more than four million visitors have seen the house, its alluring rooms, stunning views, and undeniable master craftsmanship. Fallingwater's historical significance and importance to the landscape of western Pennsylvania made it a perfect addition to the Miniature Railroad & Village®.


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During the last week of my time in Providence, I came across another arts organization called The Steel Yard. It is what it sounds like — an old industrial complex that has been taken over by an arts organization. In keeping with the land's original tradition, The Steel Yard offers ceramics and metalworking classes that among others include welding, blacksmithing and jewelry making. As part of their annual fundraising, they host a yearly Iron Chef competition and an Iron Pour which (as you can imagine/see from above) involves a lot of flying sparks in the dark. (At such times — even looking at the video — I catch for a moment the wild Romance of light, its seeming mysticism, glowering in the dark. Imagine what it must have been like before the age of electricity!) The Steel Yard converted this all but abandoned property into a vibrant teaching ground for metalurgy — what stands out in my mind as another instance of Providence's intriguing utilitarian edge. While it's participants and administrators are focused on building a community in the present, they utilize the resources of an industrial, American past. I had a chance to ask Executive Director, Drake Patten, about the organization.
- Corresponding Between Found and Made: An Interview with Jessica Stockholder - October 5, 2016
- Plant Humans of the Future: An Interview with Saya Woolfalk - August 30, 2016
- Reading with My Whole Body: An Interview with Essi Kausalainen - August 29, 2016


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TAMPA, Fla. -- President Barack Obama suggested he would support beginning an effort to amend the U.S. Constitution to undo a Supreme Court decision that gave way to the rise of so-called "Super PACs."
In a chat on the social media website Reddit, the president told readers that he would back an amendment to counteract the impact of the court's ruling in Citizens United v. FEC, a 2010 decision that did away with limits on corporate and labor spending in elections.
"Over the longer term, I think we need to seriously consider mobilizing a constitutional amendment process to overturn Citizens United (assuming the Supreme Court doesn't revisit it)," the president wrote. "Even if the amendment process falls short, it can shine a spotlight of the super PAC phenomenon and help apply pressure for change."
The president said he still supports the Disclose Act, which would force greater transparency from outside spending groups in disclosing their sources of funding. Obama also emphasized his support for banning lobbyists from the practice of "bundling," or raising large sums of contribution from a group of donors.
The 2012 campaign has seen an unprecedented influx of political spending due to the rise of super PACs, which are able to raise and spend unlimited sums on electioneering. Many of those groups also have twin nonprofit arms, which are able to raise and spend millions on "issue advocacy" without having to disclose its funding source.
Both Obama and his Republican opponent, Mitt Romney, have super PACs spending on their behalf this cycle. Obama reluctantly endorsed his, Priorities USA Action, after having initially opposed the groups;


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Mets ace Johan Santana was accused of sexually assaulting a woman on a Florida golf course last October, but investigators never filed charges, citing a lack of evidence, according to reports.
Following the release of the woman's graphic police report by TMZ.com, Santana addressed what happened briefly on Wednesday.
"I am aware of this situation," Santana told reporters Wednesday, reading from a statement ahead of the Mets' game against the Detroit Tigers. "What I can tell you is that the police investigated these claims last year, and I was never charged with anything, and the case is closed. Unfortunately, at this time, that's all I can say, and I'll have no further comments."
U.S. & World
According to the sheriff's report, Santana was with the unnamed woman on a golf course in a gated Lee County community on the night of Oct. 27. The woman says the married father of three forced himself sexually on her.
The woman told detectives that she repeatedly told Santana that she didn't want to have sex. Afterward, she said she watched him play tennis.
The state attorney's office declined to prosecute the case in January.
"It looks like a 'He said, She said' type of thing," explained Lee County Sheriff spokesman Tony Schall to the New York Daily News. "There wasn't enough evidence to prove a lack of consent."
In a statement Wednesday, the Mets said they are aware of the situation and that "it's a personal matter."


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Autocar pits the beloved Ford Focus RS against the ferocious Nissan GT-R on real world roads, where the RS would actually have a chance against Godzilla. The result? They'd rather have the RS.
The Focus RS is no match for the GT-R on The 'Ring, where the massive power and sophisticated AWD setup gives the Nissan a clear advantage over the FWD, 300 HP Ford. Take the two out to some wonderful back roads in the English countryside and it's a slightly different story. Whereas the GT-R is all about the controlled distribution of force, the Focus RS is all about confident fun. As a real world daily driver on narrow roads with steep drop-offs and few long straights, the Focus RS wins out in terms of experience. [Autocar]


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Show your brand ! The name says it all, besides T-Shirts, jackets and sweatshirts Malossi has a lot more stuff in it´s range.
MALOSSI tops its clothing brand: MALOSSI GRIFFE is the name of the new design series, with which the Italian manufacturer make the grade of stylish and elegant designer clothes and accessories. THE RACING LION MOVES FASHION!
T-Shirt MALOSSI TOP
Everyday MALOSSI shirt with printed logo on the chest. Comfortable fit thanks 100% cotton. Extremely durable. Slim fit cut. T-Shirts are small, use one size larger than usual.
OEM Numbers (for the purpose of comparison)


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With 2012 proving a record-breaking year, Qualcomm's smartphone-powering Snapdragon chips are keeping the company's bank vault nicely stocked with cash.
In its financial year 2012, Qualcomm's revenues were up 28 per cent, its operating income was up 13 per cent, its net income was up 43 per cent and, we hate to sound like a broken record, but its earnings per share were up too.
As a result, the company raked in a net income of $6.11 billion for the year. That's about £3.8 billion or AU$5.9 billion.
Lend us a fiver
It's looking a touch less rosy in the quarter-based results, with income for the final three months of Qualcomm's financial year up only 5 per cent – although, crucially still up.
As tech waves go, Qualcomm is riding a good one with its CEO Dr Paul Jacobs attributing the huge cash harvest to the explosion of wireless data and the smartphone market.
It won't stop there, either, with Dr Jacobs saying that he expects "double-digit revenue growth in fiscal 2013" as a result of a robust Snapdragon and 3G/LTE roadmap. In English? More money coming next year.


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GIIS graduates are sought after by the world's leading universities year after year. To what do we attribute our extraordinary placement record? The winning combination of our signature integrated approach to learning and our extraordinary Career Counseling resources.
Our pedagogy is academically focused to ensure that students get a good head-start in higher education as well as the best career counseling to make informed decisions for higher studies.
Placement Success
In 2014 alone, a remarkable 47 percent of GIIS IB grads were offered admission into the world's top 50 universities. In 2015, our graduates upheld the GIIS educational legacy by securing placements at prestigious universities in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and Singapore, including the University of Cambridge; University of Oxford; National University of Singapore; University of California, Los Angeles; New York University, and many others.
Real-World Learning
In pursuing either the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program or Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) in grades 11 and 12, our students benefit from a holistic approach to education ensuring maximum exposure to comprehensive learning opportunities. In addition to enriching students academically and personally, our cutting edge curriculum also strengthens and distinguishes their qualifications with university admissions committees.
The benefits of our curriculum are no better exemplified than by our outstanding scores in board examinations conducted by CBSE, Cambridge IGCSE, and the IB Diploma Programme. Our unique performance-measuring metrics track and monitor each child's academic results, enabling teachers to determine and continuously improve their academic record.
Strategic Career Counseling
In partnership with our holistic learning methods, students also gain access to the GIIS Career Counseling Cell, which offers support and guidance to students on matters of higher education. Individual consultation sessions facilitated by our expert professional team on campus are supplemented by a variety of other programmes, aimed at connecting students with the best universities for them.
We support our students and parents in identifying suitable universities through a well-structured programme, which includes one-to-one counseling, career fairs, information sessions, university visits, and hand holding throughout the application process.
But it doesn't end there. In addition to counseling on the application itself, students are also guided through the preparation of transcripts, recommendation letters, essays, and personal statements.
The result? Not only are GIIS students academically prepared for a top-tier higher education and real world success, but they're uniquely positioned to navigate the complex pathways to the best universities which will help them reach their goals.


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EUREGIO - Living without borders
The name EUREGIO stands for European region. It is used to refer geographically to a section of the Dutch-German border area covering parts of the Dutch provinces Gelderland, Overijssel, and Drenthe as well as parts of the German federal states Nordrhein-Westfalen and Niedersachsen. The region spans some 13,000 km² with about 3.37 million inhabitants.


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Yesterday afternoon, Oracle and IBM sent out a press release touting their commitments to work together and collaborate on the OpenJDK project. "Specifically, the companies will collaborate in the OpenJDK community to develop the leading open source Java environment."
Why would IBM and Oracle feel the need to make this seemingly obvious announcement? For instance, the press release indicates that "Oracle and IBM will support the recently announced OpenJDK development roadmap, which accelerates the availability of Java SE across the open source community." In light of the fact that Oracle is the company that came up with the Java 7 roadmap, it would certainly be surprising if they did not support it.
Is it the fact that IBM has thrown their support behind the OpenJDK that makes this newsworthy? The press release doesn't indicate that IBM won't continue to build anything proprietary with regards to Java and the JDK. It simply states that when it comes to open source, the OpenJDK project is the one that Big Blue will be supporting.
More than anything, the idea here is simply to allay any fears the enterprise market has over the future of Java. Big Blue is behind Java. Oracle is behind Java. And with those two players showing a vote of confidence, the market can relax and stop thinking about jumping to another development platform. Perhaps it is not earth shattering news, but it is a message that the Java community does need to hear.
Oracle and IBM Collaborate to Accelerate Java Innovation Through OpenJDK


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Vitamin D reduced childhood asthma; omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D and zinc together improved asthma symptoms in kids; and folic acid relieved allergies, three new studies reveal.
Doctors in a vitamin D study explained that asthma is increasing in industrialized nations and went to Costa Rica, where asthma rates are high, to examine children six to 14 years old. Researchers measured vitamin D levels in about 600 children and found that over one-quarter had low levels of vitamin D and that signs of allergy increased as vitamin D levels decreased. Kids with low vitamin D were more likely to be hospitalized for asthma, to use a corticosteroid inhaler and to have hypersensitive air passageways compared to kids with good vitamin D levels.
In another asthma study, 60 children with moderately persistent asthma, average age 8, took 300 mg of eicosapentaenoic acid/docosahexaenoic acid (EPA/DHA) per day, 15 mg of zinc per day or 200 mg of vitamin C per day, separately or together, for six weeks. Lung function and signs of inflammation improved with each supplement individually and improved the most when kids took omega-3, zinc and vitamin C together.
In a folic acid study, researchers from Johns Hopkins Children's Center in Baltimore, Maryland, reviewed the medical records of over 8,000 people, aged two to 85, and found that those with the highest folate levels were 28 percent less likely to have wheezing compared to those with the lowest levels. Those with the highest folate levels were 23 percent less likely to have allergy or allergic symptoms and 14 percent less likely to have asthma. Doctors concluded, "Our findings are a clear indication that folic acid may indeed help regulate immune response to allergens and may reduce allergy and asthma symptoms."
Reference: American Journal of Respiratory & Critical Care Medicine; January 29, 2009, electronic pre-publication.
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By: Akiem Bailum
Twitter: @Li495Akiem
In the past, Monday Morning Realist columns have featured a specific theme to them. An earlier one was centered around coaches that may very well be on the hot seat on Black Monday after Week 17 is finished. There's one to this week's as well.
In Week 14, things went due South for the AFC North.
Playing Through Tragedy
First up this week are the Cincinnati Bengals who came into their home game at Paul Brown Stadium vs. the Dallas Cowboys at 7-5 and barely on the outside looking in for the AFC playoffs. While the Bengals were looking to pad their playoff positioning, it was another tragic week throughout the league as a whole.
The NFL is still fresh off the Javon Belcher murder-suicide from last week in Kansas City that took the lives of two people and left a 3 month old girl without a mother and father.
This week, the league would deal with more tragedy as it was found out that the Cowboys' 25-year old Jerry Brown was killed in a car accident that also involved teammate Josh Brent. Brent has since been charged with intoxication manslaughter and his bail amount has been set at $500,000. The most glaring piece of information on his record is that it's not the first time Brent has had DUI related issues to deal with. He's a repeat offender as he did it once while in college.
It's simply the second straight week where something has meant a lot more than football in this case. Once again, on behalf of The Real Sports Talk, condolences to Brown's family and the Cowboys organization.
Brent has since vociferously tried to lament that he's heartbroken about what happened to Jerry Brown. The obvious answer to him is that none of this would've happened if Brent used common sense and realize that you don't drink and drive. Add that to the fact that he's a repeat offender clearly shows that he and his attorneys are on a PR tour. It's another sad episode that should be a lesson to everybody and, once again, saps a lot of the fun out of what should be excitement about playoff races. For better or for worse, the game of football was trivialized again by tragic circumstances.
As for the game itself, the Bengals did maintain a 19-10 lead into the 4th quarter, but they had multiple opportunities to put the game away on both sides of the football. Key drops, including one from wide receiver A.J. Green where he would've had an easy touchdown, kept an emotional Dallas team in the game. Tony Romo also almost threw a late interception that was also dropped.
It allowed the 'Boys to stay in it and Romo to engineer a game-winning drive resulting in a Dan Bailey field goal.
Romo was 25/43 for 268 yards, 1 touchdown, and 1 interception. Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton went 20/33 for 206 yards, 1 TD, and a pick. Playing through tragic circumstances is never easy to do as the Kansas City Chiefs did last week. This game went beyond football for Dallas this week.
Dallas is now 7-6 and will return to Arlington to play the Steelers in Week 15.
As for the Bengals, they now face a short week at 7-6 before traveling to Philadelphia to play the Eagles. They may rue the day they "dropped" this game as it could be the difference between January football and beginning their offseason in that month—as evidenced by everything else that occurred throughout their division.
Banged Up in the Beltway
The Baltimore Ravens were smarting after losing in stunning fashion last week to the Pittsburgh Steelers and their third string quarterback Charlie Batch. One would expect that this would be the game for them to get back on track as they went to Landover, Maryland to play the Washington Redskins in what has been termed as the "Battle of the Beltway".
One reason had to be why—the Pittsburgh Steelers have a real defense. The 'Skins defense is 28th ranked in the NFL. But it was a defense that was able to hold its own last week vs. their division rival New York Giants. When it seemed like they were out of it, London Fletcher, Alfred Morris, and Robert Griffin III have put the Redskins back in the middle of the NFC playoff chase.
They came into this game at 6-6. Baltimore was at 9-3. While it was back-and-forth throughout, the Ravens did have to sustain more injuries as would be evidenced by those to Jameel McClain and Terrell Suggs (the Suggs injury occurred prior to the game).
The injury bug wouldn't only bite the Ravens. Late in the 4th quarter, Robert Griffin III sustained a knee injury. He attempted to come back, but he clearly could no longer play a few plays later. He would be replaced by Kirk Cousins who would not only complete a game-tying drive late in the 4th quarter, but remained in the game to be part of a game-winning drive in overtime. Washington also received a huge play on special teams from Richard Crawford who returned a punt 64 yards all the way to Baltimore's 24 yard line. A few plays later, Kai Forbath would make a 34 yard field goal to win it for the Burgundy and Gold.
Washington is now 7-6 and is in the thick of things in the NFC playoff race. The main question for them right now is will Robert Griffin III be healthy for next week's game vs. the Browns, a game they should win. RGIII was able to avoid an ACL injury and he's currently listed as having only a knee sprain, but his status still is unknown, according to reports.
Even without RGIII, Washington still has plenty of issues on defense and some are even hinting at a quarterback controversy between RGIII and Kirk Cousins. Those defensive issues will not win them too many postseason games even with their rushing attack led by Alfred Morris and Robert Griffin III. Prior to the injury, Griffin was 15/26 for 246 yards and 1 touchdown in addition to rushing for 34 yards on 7 carries. Morris had 23 carries for 122 yards. They also got 5 receptions on 87 yards from Pierre Garcon.
Joe Flacco's statistics are someone misleading—16/21 for 182 yards on 3 touchdowns and 1 interception. They would also get 20 carries on 121 yards from Ray Rice. Torrey Smith vented his frustration on Twitter about the team not being able to hold leads. The bottom line is that they have a lot of injury issues and the last couple of games were games they had great chances of winning—but didn't.
Next week it doesn't get any easier for the 9-4 Ravens—they go back home to play Peyton Manning's Denver Broncos.
The previous 3 weeks for the Pittsburgh Steelers weren't very memorable. They managed to go 1-2, but what showed more than anything else was that when Ben Roethlisberger wasn't their starting quarterback, their offense was lost.
This week, they would get their two-time Super Bowl winning QB back and fans expected a return to the form that had Pittsburgh earlier in the season looking like the hottest team in the NFL.
Meanwhile, the San Diego Chargers are virtually done, especially after 4th and 29 two weeks ago vs. the Baltimore Ravens. And mid-week, there was the San Diego Union-Tribune report that said team owner Dean Spanos would fire head coach Norv Turner and GM A.J. Smith at the end of the year. Spanos denied the report. We'll see on Black Monday….
With both teams coming into their Week 14 tilt at Pittsburgh's Heinz Field colder than Steel City weather in December, something had to give. What gave out was Pittsburgh's offense for the majority of the game. Towards the closing of the third quarter, the Steelers' deficit was 27-3 and Philip Rivers looked like the Philip Rivers from circa 2008 instead of circa 2011.
Rivers went 21/41 for 200 yards and 3 touchdowns. Roethlisberger also had 3 TDs while going 22/42 with one interception. Mike Wallace also had 7 receptions for 112 yards in a losing effort for the Stillers.
The loss now sends Pittsburgh to 7-6 while San Diego is 5-8. The Steelers get the Cowboys at Cowboys Stadium in Week 15. The Chargers' playoff hopes are slim if not done at best. They play Carolina at home next week, but judging from the last 3 weeks, Cam Newton and the Panthers are playing their best football of the year. Whoever doesn't make the playoffs out of the AFC North may rue Week 14. All 3 top teams lost when they had chances to make their playoff standing more solid.
Oh, and the Browns won too. Go figure.
T(Win) Cities
You wouldn't notice it if all you watched was the Bears/Vikings game inside the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, but a major snowstorm hit the Twin Cities metropolitan area over this weekend. Some areas throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin are reporting as much as 16 inches of snow.
Luckily, The Dome's roof didn't collapse as it did during that year's mishap (what I called the MetroFail) in 2010.
December. Snow. Outside. Cold weather. Bears weather.
Domed stadium. Advantage Minnesota Vikings.
No Brian Urlacher for the Bears—advantage Minnesota Vikings. The Purple-People Eaters were 5-1 at home coming into this game. They can thank that roof in what would be otherwise cold weather conditions for their victory over the Bears on Sunday.
Oh, and Adrian Peterson helped out a lot too. He'd rush 31 times for 154 yards and 2 touchdowns. By the end of the first quarter, he'd have 100 yards already. Apparently, Christian Ponder learned from last week's Green Bay Packers game that the key to the Vikings winning football games is Peterson pounding the rock and the defense doing the rest of the work.
They were able to do its work on Jay Cutler as they sacked him twice and also picked him off twice. One of those times would be a pick six to Harrison Smith. Other than that, he'd go 22/44 for 260 yards and 1 touchdown.
That was before he'd have to be taken out of the game with a neck injury. It is fresh in the minds of Bears fans what their offense looked like without Jay Cutler and they're hoping he's not out for any lengthy period of time.
In came Jason Campbell again. He did go 6/9 for 64 yards and 1 touchdown pass (to Brandon Marshall), but the late score came with less than 2 minutes left to go in the game. Minnesota won 21-14.
Minnesota is now 7-6 and will play the Rams in Week 15. They should win that game. Chicago is 8-5 and will get Green Bay in Soldier Field next week.
This Section Brought to You By the Number 58
The Seattle Seahawks defeated the Arizona Cardinals 58-0 on Sunday.
An NFL team defeated another NFL team by 58 points.
Enough said.
If Only The "D" Train Went to East Rutherford…
After getting to .500 at 5-5 before Thanksgiving week, the New Orleans Saints had their fans feeling a little bit more cautiously optimistic about the season. The 5 wins included a huge one at home vs. the division rival Atlanta Falcons in where a goal-line stand sealed the deal for New Orleans.
But, since Thanksgiving week, a lot has changed. They've lost at home to the San Francisco 49ers when Colin Kaepernick was starting just his 2nd game for the Niners. The week after that on NFL Network's Thursday Night Football, they lost on the road to the Atlanta Falcons after they had beaten Atlanta on 11 of their previous 13 meetings. Drew Brees threw 5 interceptions that game.
In Week 13, they'd travel to New York/New Jersey to play the Giants who were coming off a loss to the Washington Redskins in FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland on Monday Night Football. One thing that hasn't changed all year long about the Saints—the fact that this team still has the worst defense in the entire NFL.
It showed again as they'd allow 52 points to the Giants—the most they'd allow to a team all season long. Eli Manning threw 259 yards on 22/35 passing with 4 touchdowns and 2 interceptions.
Rookie runningback David Wilson would have a breakout game. Not only did he rush for 100 yards on 13 carries, he'd also return 4 kicks for 227 yards including one for 97 yards and a touchdown. And according to statistics, he's the first player ever in NFL history to return kicks for at least 200 yards and rush for at least 100 yards. Victor Cruz also caught 8 passes for 121 yards and a touchdown.
For the Saints and Drew Brees, the turnover issues continued. New Orleans turned the ball over 4 more times, including 2 interceptions from Drew Brees—both to the Giants' Stevie Brown. Other than that, he'd go 26/43 for 354 yards and 1 touchdown.
New Orleans is now 5-8. They're finished. Their high-octane offense could not overcome their porous defense and it caught up to them in New York. They're not getting into the playoffs out of the NFC with Chicago and Seattle both at 8-5. They will not be playing in a Super Bowl in their home stadium, so if those stories haven't been scrapped already, scrap them now.
As for the New York Giants, they're 8-5. It's very important for them to win the remainder of their games because there's still a chance that only one team out of the NFC East makes the playoffs. Washington is continuing their hard-charging run and so is Dallas. They've been very inconsistent their last 4 games. They looked great vs. Green Bay and New Orleans (teams that either had bad defenses or were injured) and not so much against Cincinnati and Washington (of course, the 'Skins defense is hella suspect as well).
Next for the Saints—a home game vs. the Buccaneers who last this week to the Philadelphia Eagles. The Giants go to the Georgia Dome to play the Atlanta Falcons. That game should be fun to watch.
Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!
Unlike in Minnesota where they have a dome, there's no such contraption encompassing Lambeau Field. And they did get snow which meant less-than-normally-visible conditions for Sunday Night Football in Green Bay. It's December, so you wouldn't want to see it any other way. Football played in the elements—it's a beautiful thing.
Also, take into consideration that the last two games for the Detroit Lions were losses where they probably should've got wins—both over playoff caliber teams in the Houston Texans and Indianapolis Colts.
That'll happen when your defense is suspect like Detroit's is…and when there's concern that one of the players who is supposed to be one of your defensive standouts is getting the side-eye from people about being a dirty player.
That, of course, is Ndamukong Suh.
Green Bay would once again enter this game with two of their top defensive players still sidelined due to injury—Charles Woodson and Clay Matthews.
Early on, it looked like those same defensive difficulties would come home to roost yet again. Matthew Stafford and the Lions' offense looked crisp early on as they jumped out to an early 14-0 lead. What began the turnaround for the Green Bay Packers would be a fumble recovery off Stafford from Mike Daniels. He'd return the ball 43 yards to the other end to make it 14-10.
Green Bay got the lead by Aaron Rodgers completing the 2nd longest run of his career—27 yards for a TD that made it 17-14. This game began to look like the Houston and Indy games for Detroit. Good starts, but fading late. What stuck out was how much the Packers ran the ball. Collectively, Rodgers, Alex Green, Dujuan Harris, John Kuhn, and even Ryan Grant combined for 140 yards on the ground. The Lions also ran the ball rather well themselves with 135 yards, but all of the Packer TDs would come via run plays. Rodgers went 14/24 for 173 yards. Randall Cobb also had a huge game with 7 receptions and 102 yards.
Matthew Stafford would go 27/45 for 264 yards, 1 touchdown, and 1 interception. It would also be another big day for Calvin Johnson. Megatron's line—10 receptions for 118 yards. He continues to lead the league in receiving yards with almost 1500 on the season. And as NBC pointed out, he's closing in on Jerry Rice's record for most receiving yards in a season.
With the Lions at 4-9 now on the season, that's practically the only thing they have left to play for. They'll play the Arizona Wildca….uh…I mean the Arizona Cardinals in Glendale in Week 15. They better win that game. The 9-4 Packers, on the other hand, have plenty to play for. The NFC North title can once again be painted green and gold if they defeat the Chicago Bears in Soldier Field next week.
If the Playoffs Began Today….
Texans 11-1 (1st round bye)
Broncos 10-3 (1st round bye)
Patriots 9-3
Ravens 9-4
Colts 9-4
Steelers 7-6
Falcons 11-2 (1st round bye)
49ers 9-3-1 (1st round bye)
Packers 9-4
Giants 8-5
Seahawks 8-5
Bears 8-5
Stay tuned to TRST for the most in NFL coverage, including The NFL Final Score every Sunday!


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Summary and Keywords
This essay focuses on the principal Pizarro family members who played active roles in the exploration, invasion, and colonization of the Andes. Francisco Pizarro served as leader until his assassination by Diego de Almagro partisans in 1541. Juan fought against stout native resistance until he was fatally injured during the siege of Cuzco. Gonzalo led the forces against the New Laws and their implementation by the first viceroy, Blasco Núñez Vela. After the viceroy and his forces were defeated and he was executed, Gonzalo ruled the Andes until Licenciado Pedro de la Gasca arrived to reestablish crown hegemony. Royalist and Gonzalo's rebel forces clashed. Gonzalo's defeat cost him his life. Hernando, long the de facto patriarch of the family, emerged as the defender of family interests. He married his niece, the mestiza daughter of Francisco; consolidated their holdings, selling assets at risk of confiscation in Peru; and reinvested the proceeds in safer products in Spain. His manipulations and planning allowed him to establish an endowment that assured the survival of the family into the 20th century.
Keywords: Cajamarca, Conquest, Diego de Almagro, encomienda, Francisco Pizarro, Gonzalo Pizarro, Hernando Pizarro, Juan Pizarro, mining, Peru
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