text:
It's that time of year again... our local county fair!
And, once again, I volunteered to work a shift at our court information booth. (Good brownie points for work. Know what I'm sayin'?) And when I sign up to work with 2 of my friends, hanging out behind our booth taking a tally of the number of mullets, fanny packs and men who appear to be 13 months pregnant, it hardly seems like a chore to spend three hours of my time there.
When my shift ended at 7 p.m. Eric was waiting to meet me with both of the kids in tow. Yet another fun-filled family night, hanging out at the fair! And again, how you go wrong with fair food, which you already know my affection for greasy, fried, overpriced junk food. Mmmm...
This year at the fair, Elaina was big enough to ride most of the kiddie rides all by herself. I thought that she was going to pull her arm out of socket as she was pointing so hard at each and every ride, saying over and over, "I wanna ride, I wanna ride, I wanna ride 'dat one," She could hardly finish her sentence, stating what she wanted to ride before she spotted another just as tempting. Yes, Elaina, there isn't a ride here that you don't want to ride. I get it!
Elaina learned a big lesson in patience tonight as she had to wait in line, and then wait for the kids to exit the ride before she could get on. Excruciating for a 2 year old to just sit idle when there are rides to be ridden! Talk about no fun! The better part about going to the fair on a Thursday evening is that the lines for the kiddie rides weren't really that long, In fact, some of the ride operator's were just sitting around waiting for customers. Plenty of times I walked up to the gate and asked if they didn't mind running it just for one rider. Elaina had some of the rides all to herself!
Surprisingly, we were able to inch Elaina away from all of the lights and noise of the kiddie ride area and move onto the animal barns. At this point, it was getting much later in the evening and the crowds were minimal. In fact, plenty of the animals were already asleep in their pens. As we walked down the aisle of the big barn, Elaina peered into the pig pens and said night-night to each and every pig. Eric heard her echoing through the barn and decided to have a little fun with his girl. Instead of saying night-night to the piggies, he had Elaina shouting, " Night-Night Bacon-bacon! Night-night Sausage-sausage!" Although she enjoyed this just as well, she had no idea how hysterical she sounded to everyone else. Good influence, Daddy.
Since we were having such a terrific time, and no one was yelling, screaming or fussing, we ended up leaving at closing time. 10:00. Well past Elaina's typical bedtime and long after we usually have Lincoln snug in bed too, we finally headed for home.
We had such a great evening and can't wait until next year when Elaina will be three and can teach her little brother how to sweet talk the piggies before bedtime!
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Family Affair
It's that time of year again... our local county fair!
Handcrafted by Laura at 9:25 PM 0 Welcome Comments
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Lincoln is almost 4 months old.
I have mother guilt.
I need help.
Here's my confession:
I never had birth announcements made for our little precious.
There. I said it. Guilt. Hate guilt.
When he was, oh let's say 2 months, I was waiting for the perfect, sweet opportunity to snap the most beautiful photo ever and send it to dozens of our family and friends. I found myself waiting around for some peace and quiet with Lincoln all to myself. Well, when you have two kids, those moments generally happen along about 10:00 p.m., in which photo shoots don't necessarily occur to my tired mind. And then there was Elaina's second birthday which crept up on me sooner than I thought possible. And when I had just finally had it with my own procrastination and was determined to make "thee photo" happen, Lincoln had come down with his burning fever which landed him in the hospital. And that's not going to make for very many happy-boy-faces.
I could go on and on with excuse after excuse about being busy, yet it still doesn't excuse the fact that I have severe mom guilt and my baby is only getting older by the day. And still no birth announcements done. Never mind that my camera has been recalled and there is no hope for "thee photo" to be taken in the next 2-3 weeks. I'm thinking of using an older photo and pretending like I had them done a long time ago. Like they just probably took that long to get mailed back to me.
Tell me, is it too late to send birth announcements?
Don't even get me started on when I'll be able to get him to the portrait studio to have his 3 month pictures done. Aaack!
Help. Me.
Handcrafted by Laura at 8:59 AM 2 Welcome Comments
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Performance Appraisal
Notice how I haven't posted any more about potty training?
That would be because Elaina could really care less about the issue as a whole. Of course we talk all about putting her pee-pee in the potty and telling somebody when she feels like she has to go, blah, blah, blah. Still, nothing.
So tonight when she told me, "I go potty, Mommy. In 'dis bafroom," I complied without hesitation. As she was sitting on the potty, I was talking to her in a calming voice and subtly encouraging her to go. Elaina then pat me on the back and said, "Is okay Mommy. You're a good girl."
Melt. Melt. Melt. I don't know which I wanted to do more: laugh or squeeze her into itsy bitsy pieces. God she is a sweet girl!
Thanks Elaina! I needed that!
Handcrafted by Laura at 10:35 PM 0 Welcome Comments
Sometimes I Think I'm Smart
Yep, it's true! Sometimes I come up with rather intelligent ideas to make my life and living just a little bit easier. Of course I'm not claiming any originality on this idea and it's far from brilliant.
However, while I was changing Lincoln's clothes and peeling off a too-tight-sleeper-which-accidentally-crept-back-into-his-drawer, I had a little spark of smart to keep his too-small clothes from making their way back into rotation. Are you ready for this? I turned them inside out! When they come out of the laundry, inside out, I know it's time to retire them for good.
Oh yeah! Genius! Inside out! In my genius abilities, I do find time to laugh at myself over the fact that it's taken all of 2 years to establish this new system.
Go ahead and use it, this tip is on me!
Handcrafted by Laura at 9:48 PM 1 Welcome Comments
Monday, August 27, 2007
Good Eater
Now, by the title "Good Eater" who would you guess I am referring to?
Would you guess:
(A) Me, since I enjoy a giant bowl of ice cream about 4 times per week
(B) Keegan, our dog, since I just bought him 70 pounds of dog food (stocking up)
(C) Picky-Pickerson, a.k.a.: Elaina, the non-eater
Well, in case you went out on a limb and guessed Elaina, you are right! Just in case you guessed me or Keegan, you get extra points as well, since neither of us are even slightly under nourished.
Tonight it was Elaina who I am happy to report had a fairly decent dinner. Eric was out working and so it was just me and my girl at the dinner table. The first shocker of the evening was when she told me that she was hungry. The child is never hungry, except for junk food and snacks. She even told me she wanted "awfuls." "Awfuls" are waffles in Elaina-speak. So, waffles for dinner. Okay! She helped me put the frozen waffle into the toaster slot (okay, okay, I'll begin making homemade waffles again when I don't have a 3 month old who is going to begin fussing to eat in 30 minutes!) and we were cooking. The water works began to pour and her bottom lip about hit the table in discontent when I put strawberry jelly ON the waffle, rather than on the bear's head on her little pictured plate. DRAMA! QUEEN! She pushed her plate away, refusing even one bite. At that point, I was trying to gage where this little tiff was headed. I could have easily lost my temper and took her straight to bed without any dinner. And believe me, I was envisioning it in my head. But instead, I took charge and changed my tone (read: yelled) at her explaining that her waffle was the only thing she was going to get tonight and it was going to taste exactly the same. And then I ignored her. Somewhere, a spark of magic happened. Right in my kitchen. She said she would try it! Did you hear the angels singing? Are those harps in the background? My daughter is trying something she had her mind set on that she wouldn't want to eat. In fact, hold onto your seats; she ate 2 (TWO) whole waffles, with a side of peanut butter, strawberry jelly and even asked for some syrup for dippy. And a 1/4 of a banana.
Bear in mind, this is still the girl who won't eat a peanut butter and jelly sandwich or any combination of them on bread.
Handcrafted by Laura at 10:02 PM 2 Welcome Comments
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Three Musketeers
Let me just start by saying that I am in awe of what a great weekend I enjoyed with my two kids. Yep, just the three of us!
I stayed up on Friday night until almost 2 a.m. to finish some of the miscellaneous mom-chores around the house (i.e. 6 loads of laundry) and felt quite accomplished by the time my head finally hit the pillow. As if on schedule, both little munchkins woke at the ripe, old hour of 7 (!) the next morning. Like any good mom, I fed Lincoln his bottle, brought up a sippy of milk and snack trap of dried cereal for Elaina and we all vegged out in bed, watching cartoons for the next 2 hours. Nevermind the fact that I missed several of the shows as I couldn't see through my eyelids. Now that's the way I like to start off my mornings!
Since there's no keeping a busy-body-2 year old still for too long, I peeled myself out of bed and even decided to run some errands with both kids in tow. Again, amazingly, they were easy. No crying, no whining, no fussing and no fits! E-Z! That must have been the key to wearing Elaina out just enough that she settled in bed for her overdue nap time and slept for 3 hours. OMG! I really can't express how thrilling that was. I was tempted to wake her up until the more sensible, practical mother in me snapped me back into realty and I realized that if she was sleeping that much, her body must just need it. The anal, worrisome half of me began to question if she ever be able to fall asleep that same night. (She did!)
And so, remember my big, long, troublesome list of doom? I tackled it head on while sleeping beauty was accounted for. In between each load of laundry or with the completion of each task, I gave myself a 10 minute-ish play break with Lincoln. He enjoyed some tummy time, bouncing and wiggling as we cooed at each other and smiled. If only I had a camera, I could show you just how good he is getting at his big smiles. They are completely contagious!
Sunday morning was almost as leisurely, with the exception of even less sleep on my part the night before. Elaina and I made our favorite cinnamon rolls, (the child has been known to eat three before!) and called Daddy on the phone. Since our church doesn't have a daycare, I didn't even make an effort to think I was hauling two kids there all alone and try to juggle their contentment. While it would have been noble, I feel that most of the message is lost when you're trying to pay some attention to one in an infant carrier while making sure the mobile one isn't coloring on hymnals or crawling atop or underneath pews. Our Sunday was a little more low key. And trust me, I'm always thanking the Lord for that!
Eric arrived home from the race around 3 p.m. and no sooner, ushered me off to the stores to make some returns and buy dog food. Since we live almost 30 miles away from the shopping mecca of the county, going to the out to the stores is quite an event. Unlike my brother and SIL, who live literally 5 minutes away from the best shopping ever, we have a drive. In my opinion, that was good planning on Eric's part to keep my distance from the shopping. I would never come home from work on time and we would have probably run out of money about 3 years ago. So, for my afternoon, I ran errands all alone and savored what was left of my weekend!
A good one by far!
Handcrafted by Laura at 9:28 PM 0 Welcome Comments
Friday, August 24, 2007
First Things First
First of all, let me just say that I'm having one of "those kind of weeks" that I feel behind on everything. My house is in shambles and my "to-do list" has now become the "must-do-before-I-lose-my-mind-list." Oh yeah, and the list is about as long as my arm. Single spaced.
So here I sit with my neglected friend, Keyboard and my better known friend, Bowl 'O Ice Cream. I have come to believe that ice cream always seems to make my world a little bit better. Mmmm...
This past week has been filled with many "firsts" for my family. Nothing terribly monumental or significant to report like Lincoln figuring Chinese arithmatic or Elaina eating an entire plate of food, but other random things that are still worth the mention. To kick off our week, on Sunday night we switched Lincoln's formula back to milk-based. It was only 2 months ago that he was seeming to have so many issues with being gassy, uncomfortable and most of all, screaming throughout every feeding. When he would arch his back and scream with pain, we were convinced that it had to be an issue with his formula. Our pediatrician recommended that we try lactose-free formula and see if he presented with the same behavior. That seemed to be the magic that we needed and he drank his bottles with pleasure. Much the same way as me and Bowl 'O Ice Cream. What a relief.
This past weekend he gradually began to demonstrate the same symptoms of discomfort when it came to feeding time. Sunday evening he had a 30 minute crying fit while trying to drink his bottle, that would make you believe that someone was severing his limbs with a dull knife. Absolutely heartbreaking cries that nearly broke me in two. I had to pass him off to Eric to see if he had any better luck. After 30 minutes of this torture (for all of us) I finally ran to the kitchen, preparing a bottle of the free Enfamil (milk-based) formula that the company sends to new arrivals. Either he had just worn himself out from all of his yelling or he actually realized the difference and drank it with ease. Let's hear a big 'ol "Amen" for that!
This has been the first full week that he's been back on milk-based formula and not a single problem since. And just a lucky perk from Lincoln's frugal mom; I'm saving $2 a can!
Moving on, this is also the first time I have had to get both kids ready in the morning and out the door for work all by myself. Eric left very early Thursday morning for the NASCAR race in Bristol, TN. He'll be gone until Sunday, giving me 2 work day mornings to handle by myself. I know this sounds a little bit petty, but Eric is such an enormous help with both kids and we work well together. Seeing as though it is already Friday night, I'm happy to report that I made the best of my 6 a.m. mornings and got the three of us fed and ready and out the door, right on schedule.
This week was also the first time that Elaina's drama queen attitude lasted longer than a day and reached an all time high. Monday through Wednesday, she woke up sleepy and grumpy and early, refusing to go back to sleep. Our mornings included her refusing to eat breakfast, fighting to get dressed, yelling while I did her hair and lots of little diva things that just don't fly in our household. Each afternoon, she came home from Nancy's house and claimed she was tired so that she could lay down with her binkies. Plenty of times she was so tired that we allowed her about a 30 minute nap in the middle of the evening, just to get through the remaining hours before bedtime. I'm pretty much convinced that her 2 year molars are still working their way through and it's a side affect of growing also. Oh, but her behavior! Sheesh! A little less bad would work for me! As luck would have it, Thursday and Friday, I got my good girl back. Sweet!
And my final "first" to report is that I finally made time to really tear into my laundry piles. The first time in 2 weeks, I washed, dried, bleached, folded and put away about 6 loads of laundry. It would be easy not to mention that I still have about 3 more loads that I could run through, but whose gonna tell on me if I don't?
Handcrafted by Laura at 11:14 PM 1 Welcome Comments
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Little Things from my Little Love
3 long forehead wrinkles, arching when he dreams
running my fingers over his soft little fuzzy head
reminding myself daily that he'll nver again be this tiny
the impromptu smiles and grunts he makes while he's sleeping
the opportunity to fall in love and change our lives for the better once again
the way his big grey eyes study my face
how he settles down so quickly once he's soothed
the way he prefers to have his head hang over my elbow when he cuddles in my armsmy lips kiss his forehead and his nose touches my chin
bobbing head when he breathes
laying chest to chest, his cratching little fingers against my skin
remain in fetal position after postion change
baby breath
God I love my baby boy.
Handcrafted by Laura at 11:43 PM 0 Welcome Comments
Monday, August 20, 2007
I'm a Cool Mom!
Here's a fun story for your amusement-
Like every other morning, during our morning rush out of the house to get the kids to the sitter's house, Elaina stops to pick a little blue flower to take to Nancy. Honestly, I can't believe that there is even a flower there day after day since Elaina picks them all. So, this morning was no different. Elaina picks her flower to take to Nancy, we pull in her driveway and Elaina is poking around her carseat looking for her flower. I find it and show it to her, stating that her flower is "Right HERE" and "Let's go." Elaina seems oblivious to this new development and continues to poke around, wasting time and ignoring me in her seat. I finally raise my voice and announce with a little more authority, "Elaina! Let's go! Your flower is here- we have to go!"
At this point, I am unbuckling her from her carseat belt and digging for her arms buried in the seat cushion. As I pick her up from her seat, in a perplexed tone, Elaina says to me, "OkayOkay Mommy, JustChillOut." Plain as day. My daughter told me to "Chill out."
I asked her, "Did you just tell Mommy to chill out?"
Not knowing if this was the right answer, she buried her head into my shoulder and softly said, "Yes."
I had to turn her around and put her feet on the ground as I began to laugh to myself in disbelief. Oh, she wasn't in trouble. It was too funny to even respond to her in any way.
One might be lead to believe that some parent may advise Elaina to "chill out" occasionally when she strikes up her fragile drama queen attitude. Hmm... is that possible?
Handcrafted by Laura at 11:13 PM 0 Welcome Comments
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Calling all Recalls!
Seriously! Is this the summer of recalls or what?
It's only been three days and I am already experiencing withdrawal. My camera has been recalled. ( Insert the pout face and wrinkled brow of frustration.)
Didn't it all start when they recalled coney sauce in July for fear that it may have contained botulism? Oh yeah, that would have been the very same coney sauce we offered our guests at Elaina's 2nd birthday party that my mom became ill over. And while I'm thinking about it, there were the Veggie Booty chips (salmonella), Thomas the Train toys (lead paint) and then green beans (more botulism) and then Mattel with every-single-Dora -action- figure- known- to- exist and even certain models of Ford trucks. Seriously!
And I'm suffering over my missing camera, forfeiting pictures of my little sweetness children, changing by the day and no one can even offer me a stinkin' coney dog!
Apparently America is selling out our safety to the lowest bidder or the most careless workers.
I'll step down from my soapbox now. Thank you.
We'll have pictures again one day. And then, all will be right in my world. And I'll be content with only ketchup and mustard on my hot dog.
I. Just. Want. My. Camera. BACK.
Handcrafted by Laura at 10:54 PM 1 Welcome Comments
The Grandparent Adventure
Just how many grandparents can you visit in one weekend?
Handcrafted by Laura at 10:10 PM 0 Welcome Comments
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Biographies of the Wee Ones
The Big Sister
Name: Elaina Rose
Alias: Sweetie, Love, BabyBoy
Age: 3 months
Height: 24 inches (50 percentile)
Weight: 15.9 pounds (75 percentile)
Likes: holding onto his mommy/daddy/blanket, hanging his head off the bend of mommy's elbow so that she looks like she doesn't know how to hold a baby, smiling, cooing and discovering an almost-giggle in his throat
Dislikes: being hungry or sitting in a soiled diaper
Talents: recently began sleeping through the night like a champ! Consistently drinks 6 ounces at every feeding. Beginning to stand on his strong legs and supports his head very well.
Favorite toy: loves his swing and loves to have something to hold onto
Things he would like you to know: Did I mention him sleeping through the night? He has recently found his thumb and has become a thumb-sucker with the rest of his fingers pressed to the side of his nose.
Handcrafted by Laura at 10:33 PM 2 Welcome Comments
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Weekend Co-Op
While I do love my mom and dad plenty, I resorted to sheer bribery in pitching my case to them for one last favor. Since we had all been so busy running around all weekend, I didn't feel like I had hardly any time to spend with them before they intended to leave on Sunday afternoon. I hit below the belt when I offered to take my mom shopping and promised my dad dinner at a great BBQ restaurant if they would stay just one more night. Hooray! They accepted!
We enjoyed our Sunday evening together doing some shopping and eating a great dinner. Even though it wasn't the BBQ that I had boasted, we all enjoyed our Chinese buffet just the same. Better yet, my mom and I got some great buys and finally had some time to visit with one another.
Although we had a very busy weekend, it was one of the best. Thank you mom and dad for running the show in our absence and hugging and squeezing our kids to pieces. Lincoln got to know your voices and your warmth and Elaina was just crazy about having you at her house. A great time by far!
Handcrafted by Laura at 10:00 PM 0 Welcome Comments
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
3 Months Old!
It seems like just yesterday that we were bringing a stringy, little 6.6 pound baby Lincoln home from the hospital. Desperate to find clothing small enough to fit his tiny hiney.
Handcrafted by Laura at 11:08 PM 2 Welcome Comments
Monday, August 06, 2007
The Spread
Let me just say one more time: yesterday was pure misery.
Ugh. I don't remember feeling that sick in a long time. So guess what? Elaina yacked all over herself 10 minutes before we were ready to leave for the babysitter's house this morning. The sad part is that I'm not totally surprised.
Since Eric had already left for work I cleaned her up, called off work, called the babysitter and called Daddy. Elaina proceeded to get sick a few more times before the noon hour, but after a nice long nap, she was happy as a clam. Actually, she was spinning around and flying like an "aiy-pain" and then the next minute, she was busy bzzz-bzz'ing around like a "bummel-bee." Cute.
The only good thing to come of a sick child are the first signs to indicate that they are feeling much better. She's already there!
Handcrafted by Laura at 10:50 PM 1 Welcome Comments
Sunday, August 05, 2007
Here We Go Visiting!
One might assume that while I was off work for 2 months on maternity leave and Eric joining me on paternity leave for 6 weeks of the same time, we may have been able to steal away a weekend to visit with family and friends.
We had a great time visiting and enjoyed watching Elaina interact and play so nicely with girls almost 3 times her age.
I'm not particularly sure which dice I played to have such bad luck this weekend, but on Sunday morning, I woke up with flu symptoms. Sheer misery. The kind of misery that lets you heave a little and then leave a little if you get my drift. And at our friends house. Seriously embarrassing. I have to admit that just the little, tiny part of me that was still rational and conscious was a little bit glad that we woke up to rain on Sunday morning and ruined our plans for hanging out by the pool. Without exaggeration, I could barely walk, speak or sit up. I'm telling you: MI-SER-Y!!
By 2:00, Eric managed to load up all of our loot, gather the kids and his decrepit wife and get us on the road for home. While I felt barely human, I did not get sick and didn't even have to reach for my barf bag once. Sometimes it's the little things that you have to find joy in.
Handcrafted by Laura at 11:19 PM 1 Welcome Comments
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Posting Note...
To my loyal readers, this week has been a blur and my blog may reflect the same. I seem to have posted a few entries out of order so scroll back to see where exactly you left off. I may have slipped one in while you weren't looking. Just for fun.
Handcrafted by Laura at 10:46 PM 0 Welcome Comments
Handcrafted by Laura at 10:21 PM 2 Welcome Comments
Gypsy in the Making
I cleaned off her bed not only once this night, but three times! After I took this picture, she woke up around 3 a.m. and started over. We heard her shut her door and Eric headed in to put her back to bed. Five minutes later, we heard her talking book begin to play. Daddy took care of her once again. This time he turned off her nightlight so that she couldn't see to play with her toys in the dark. So we thought. At 3:30, her book begins to play again and it was Mommy's turn. I cleaned off her bed while she stood aghast, crying pitiful tears. Mommy was there to stay. I joined her, sleeping in her bed, putting an end to her bedtime party. Sorry toys!
Handcrafted by Laura at 9:19 PM 1 Welcome Comments
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Handcrafted by Laura at 9:13 PM 0 Welcome Comments


text:
The owner of a camel that bit at least one person after it escaped from its pen north of Los Angeles was not permitted to have the animal on the property and might be cited after Friday morning's attack, according to authorities.
The camel escaped from a property in Acton, an unincorporated community about 50 miles north of downtown Los Angeles, and attacked at least one person in the East Soledad Canyon area (map). The victim received medical treatment for a bite wound.
- Updates: Download the NBC LA Mobile App
After calls from at least two concerned residents, firefighters and deputies responded and captured the runaway camel. It was returned to its pen before animal services officers arrived, placed a leash around its neck and transported the animal in a trailer.
The victim, identified as a man in his 70s, needed stiches after he was bitten and kicked.
- Sochi Olympics: Watch Live Coverage
"My dad tried to corral it, and it attacked my dad," said the victim's daughter. "It jumped on him and bit him."
Top news of the day
The owner could be cited for endangering residents, sheriff's officials said.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
All branches open weekdays 8am - 6.30pm
Click Here to see our extended hours
CQC Rating
Our professional team are here to deliver all your healthcare needs as well as providing specialist management of long-term conditions and clinics covering a wide range of healthcare issues. We have endeavoured to use the latest technology so you order a repeat prescription or cancel an appointments and get advice contact us from your home.
Find A GP Service in your area
All you need to know about patient access and the services it provides you and your family 24/7/365
The NHS want you to have the best possible experience of care. Please give your feedback.
Coastal Medical Group, now part of Bay Medical Group wins Gold Award for 'End of Life' Care
Click here for further information


text:
Featured News - Current News - Archived News - News Categories
Four area schools have teamed up to raise money for Niagara Hospice in the "Homerun for Hospice" tournament, to be held April 9-10. Varsity and junior varsity baseball teams from Lew-Port, Wilson, Depew and Starpoint will compete on the field and off to raise money for Hospice. Before battling it out on the field, players will compete to sell the most sponsorship baseball cut-outs with their school logo for $1 each.
Mark Waple, Lew-Port teacher and varsity baseball coach, created the event as a way for students to give back to the community.
"It's important for our kids to work together to give back to the community," he said. "It's good for them to see that they can really make a difference."
Lew-Port will host the varsity games with Lew-Port vs. Depew and Starpoint vs. Wilson at 4:45 p.m. on April 9. The winners of each game will play a championship game at 4:45 p.m. on April 10, while the remaining teams will play a consolation game. The junior varsity games will be held at Wilson with the same teams playing following the same schedule.
Spectators are encouraged to come out and cheer the teams on. Concessions and additional sponsorship baseball cut-outs will be sold throughout the event with all proceeds benefiting Niagara Hospice. Volunteers and sponsors are still needed for the event. For information, call Maureen Rizzo at the Niagara Hospice Alliance at 716-280-0728.
Niagara Hospice has provided end-of-life comfort, care and support since 1988 to more than 20,000 Niagara County individuals and families faced with terminal illness. No one is ever denied hospice care due to inability to pay. For more information, visit http://www.NiagaraHospice.org or call Hospice at 716-439-4417.


text:
The Museum of American Illustration is proud to announce an exhibit featuring the top fantastic artists from around the world as seen in the annual Spectrum. Created in 1993 by Cathy and Arnie Fenner to showcase fantastic-themed art work, Spectrum is now the leading resource for art directors, art buyers, and fans of the genre. Selected pieces are chosen by top jurors in the field and images are produced in the full color book printed annually.
The Spectrum exhibit features a selection of over 120 works from both legendary artists and talented newcomers from the last four annuals. Divided into seven categories, the exhibit showcases multi-media works including original art in both traditional and digital medium, video, 3D, comics and graphic novels. Artists include Julie Bell, Kinuko Y. Craft, Eric Fortune, William Basso, Brom, James Gurney, Tony DiTerlizzi, Terese Nielsen, Yuko Shimizu, Michael Whelan, Donato Giancola, John Jude Palencar, Phil Hale and many more. The artwork will be on display from September 1 through October 17, 2009. In conjunction with the exhibit the Society will hold an Opening Reception on Friday, September 11, 2009. Tickets are $40 for non-members and $35 for members, and are limited. A percentage of the proceeds from this exhibition will be donated to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Light the Night Walk.
In conjunction with the SPECTRUM exhibit the Society will host ART OUT LOUD. Saturday, September 12 from 1-5pm. James Gurney, Sam Weber, Charles Vess, Donato Giancola, and Gregory Manchess will demonstrate their skills and techniques in an open forum. Refreshments included. $10 students, $20 members, $25 non-members.
Founded in 1901, the Society of Illustrators is a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to "the promotion of the art of illustration- past, present and future." It has over 1,000 members worldwide and is headquartered in an 1875 vintage carriage house in New York's Upper East Side.
Light the Night is a nationwide two- to three-mile evening fundraising walk. The purpose of the walk is to raise funds to support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. During this highly visible event participants carry illuminated balloons: white for cancer patients and survivors, red for family, friends and supporters, and gold in memoriam. Participants will "Light the Night" as they walk to celebrate and commemorate lives touched by cancer. For more information about Light the Night, visit www.lightthenight.org/nyc
To join the team or donate money, please visit http://pages.lightthenight.org/nyc/Manhattn09/SocietyofIllustrators.
Society of Illustrators Inc, 128 E 63rd Street, New York, NY 10065-7392
(212) 838-2560


text:
Office of Epidemiology and Research, Division of Research
Advancing Applied MCH Research
Division of Research
Funded Projects
Grantee Publications
Strategic Research Issues
Applying for a Grant
Podcasts & Webinars
Funding Opportunities
MCH Research Listserve
Receive alerts about announcements and funding opportunities
NOFO FAQsFrequently Asked Questions
Research Dialogue Podcasts
Subscribe to Research Dialogue Podcasts | Podcast Help
Improving Early Identification of Autism in Latino Children
Running time = 00:17:05 | Transcript
Interview Highlights with Dr. Anthony
Latina Children and Autism Screening
The overall goal of this project is to develop and test methods to increase the number of Latino children who are screened in primary care at an early age for autism and other developmental delays, using evidence-based measures. There is strong evidence of disparities in the rates of autism diagnosis and delays and in use of services among Latino versus non-Latino kids. Early diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders and developmental delays leads to better and earlier interventions. The aim is to increase the number of children who are referred for evaluation and treatment in a timely manner, and to increase the number of children who receive services when they are needed.
Community Involvement in Autism Awareness and Outreach
It was very important to use appropriate outreach activities that are compatible with the community in order to increase the awareness of developmental milestones among Latino parents. It was also important to take steps to learn from the community about how best to provide information to them and obtain information from families.
Family Navigators
Beyond outreach and raising awareness, one of the most important next steps is helping families navigate the system. It is critically important to have programs to help families get the right assessment and get to the right providers. Family navigators place a very important role in getting families to the right place. It is critical to engage bilingual and bicultural parents with lived experience to provide ongoing consultation and act as a resource for families. Family navigators can engage directly with parents to conduct parts of the screenings, follow up on critical questions, and provide support. This is an important service to provide to both families and providers.
It is critical to think about this right from the beginning of the grant. Some key considerations for sustainability include:
- Establish good relationships with partners early on
- Connect with well-established ongoing programs that are residing in the community (WIC, primary care sites).
- Set up forums and logistics of events for partners (e.g., developmental fairs and small group chats or "Charlas").
- Engage with partners on various levels including working with community advisory boards and other community groups to spread the word about the program.
- Transition from research project staff conducting primary activities to partner/host organization conducting activities (e.g., screenings done by primary care physicians and staff).
- Facilitate connections between the primary care sites and local family organizations so that local organizations can take on a greater, sustained role overtime (e.g., provide navigation services).
Lessons Learned
No matter how strong the screening and referral system, it will not be effective unless you address community-specific implementation issues. For this community, it was literacy and ensuring that families understand the questions they are being asked. Engage families in the discussion of how they would feel most comfortable providing information and then adapt the screening process for use with people from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. It is also important to conduct validity tests with the population so that protocols can be adjusted to obtain more valid responses.
Unique Contributions to field of Autism
This project has contributed to the development of common factors for inclusion in primary care screening programs that will result in identification and treatment of ASD, particularly for culturally diverse families. Although there are evidence-based screening tools that have been shown to facilitate, to increase the rates of ASD diagnoses, they are not often used in primary care. The field needs effective engagement strategies to increase the likelihood that families will feel comfortable talking with providers about developmental concerns. This project focuses on developing strategies targeting both the provider and family so that both sides connect and engage in discussion of these important issues in the primary care setting, and follow-up as needed to obtain services.
Mothers and Babies: Preventing the Onset of Postpartum Depression among Low-Income Latina Populations
Running time = 00:26:13 | Transcript
Interview Highlights with Dr. Mimi Le
On Latinas and postpartum depression
The mission of this study was to prevent the onset of perinatal depression and improve the mental health of low-income, predominantly Spanish-speaking Latinas. Latinas are the largest growing population with the highest birth rates and yet have less access to services including preventive mental health services. The Mothers and Babies Program focused on prevention—both mood regulating skills and cognitive behavioral strategies.
On partnering with community based organizations
Community partnerships are extremely important and take a lot of time to cultivate. There needs to be a lot of trust. It is also important for us to meet and directly engage with front line staff working with perinatal women. These staff are committed and yet are often overloaded working with this population. Engaging agency staff from the beginning was crucial to the success of the project.
On the results of the study
Overall, the women in both the intervention and usual care groups had very low depression rates. And, in fact, those women receiving the intervention—8 regular sessions plus 3 booster sessions—did not have significantly lower depressive symptoms than those in the control group. It was perplexing. We conducted exit interviews to better understand the results and found that the women in the intervention group were able to apply the skills they learned to control their moods. Similarly, those in the control group were much more aware of their moods and their interactions with people simply because they were part of the study. They got to know and meet with us, the research staff, up to 5 times over 15 months which suggests that social support and developing relationships were very important for both groups of women.
On lessons learned
- Bilingual, bicultural staff are key to establishing good relationships.
- Researchers must understand the needs of the population with which they're working.
- Adapt the intervention so it's culturally appropriate and evaluate whether the adaption works.
- There is value in using mixed methods evaluation.
- It's important to focus on prevention (rather than on just treatment) because it helps to decrease the impact of depression and the stigma associated with it.
On regional and National impact
Through this study, we were able to collect a rich database over a long period of time. This has resulted in 13 peer-reviewed publications as well as various presentations at regional, National, and international conferences. The Mothers and Babies course manual is available and easily accessible via the UCSF website in both English and Spanish and is now being adapted with new populations and in new settings.
On sustainability
Sustainability is a huge challenge especially with limited funding and in a treatment dominated field. Prevention works and has a more significant impact. We need to integrate a range of mental health services into primary care to better meet the needs of women and their families.
On becoming an MCH Researcher
Being an Asian-American female researcher conducting prevention research with a vulnerable, high-risk population in community-based settings is challenging but, at the same time, extremely rewarding. I was able and very fortunate to have great mentors during the different phases of my academic career. One of the things I really learned is that you cannot do this work alone—that it's so important to have these mentors, who I continually check in with periodically and still help me figure out what to do next—and also the importance of developing strong collaborations with other researchers, especially community partners. Based on all of these experiences, I really value the importance of giving back and hoping to mentor other students, especially minority students who may have had less exposure to research and to figure out how to provide them with more of these research opportunities over time.
Youth with developmental disabilities transitioning into adulthood
Running time = 00:39:18 | Transcript
Interview Highlights with Dr. Penny Hauser-Cram
On three wishes from young adults with developmental disabilities
Adolescents transitioning in to adulthood are most excited about their work and their relationships. The three most popular wishes are for friends, more money and more vacation. Girls of transition age tend to have higher rates of depressive symptoms and low self-esteem; the key is the lack of friendship.
On parental stress
The transition out of education is a really tricky one. Almost every family has said to us that they have not had enough time to plan for that transition. Transition out of school has had some major implications for many families because parents no longer had a set routine for their child.
On fathers as partners
Some fathers have talked about being the invisible partner. This feeling continues into the school system where mothers are more often the ones who are often spoken to about what is going on in school. Fathers have felt like they have not been paid enough attention to. I think that many service providers are now trying to correct that now.
On Early Intervention
Throughout the study, families continued to talk about early intervention as a wonderful experience even at the time of initial diagnosis. There were many struggles at that point in their life. However, they continued to feel that early intervention made such a difference in their lives in helping them get on a positive trajectory with their child and with advocating for their child with the service sector.
On siblings
At age 10, the child with a developmental disability would say that their best friend was their sibling. We are finding some very positive relationships that exist especially in families with positive family climate and effective parenting. 60% of the siblings in our sample expect to be guardians of their brother or sister with a disability. So, that is a major undertaking for them and we are looking closely at predictors for positive or troubled relationships between the siblings.
On services coordination
Many parents felt that they have not had enough time for transition to plan. Schools seem to be a logical place to foster a holistic approach to the child's service needs. Families could greatly benefit from a central location such as the school to learn about and to access resources.


text:
LUBBOCK (AP) – A 14-year-old West Texas boy is dead after he ran into a bull statue on the Texas Tech University campus and impaled himself on one of its horns.
University spokesman Chris Cook says Miguel Martinez impaled himself while playing hide-and-seek with friends in the pre-dawn hours of Saturday morning.
Campus police say Martinez was at the museum with two adults and two minors when police were called to the scene. Police say Martinez was running on the National Ranching Heritage Museum on the Texas Tech campus when the horn pierced his chest.
(© Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
Also Check Out:


text:
Jesse James' Ex-Wife Wants Custody Of Their Daughter Sunny
Jesse's porn-star ex-wife is taking him to court to fight him for custody of their six-year-old daughter!
Jesse James' ex-wife, former porn star Janine Lindemulder, is taking advantage of his current marital blow-up to try to get a change in custody for the couple's six-year-old daughter Sunny! Janine is currently serving a four-month sentence in a halfway house after violating her parole over tax evasion charges is now seeking custody of Sunny. Jesse currently has full custody of their daughter and his wife Sandra Bullock has been taking care of Sunny for the past year. Now that cheating allegations are hovering over Jesse, 40, TMZ reports that Janine believes Sandra, 45, will leave Jesse — which might allow her to gain partial or full custody of Sunny.
Ironically, even Janine admits that Sandra is a wonderful stepmother. "She packs perfect lunches," Janine admitted to Life & Style in December 2009. "She thinks of every little detail from sunblock to sanitary wipes and the perfect amounts of food. I can't compete. If I could wish any stepmom for my daughter, it would be Sandra."
Read More on the Jesse James' Cheating Scandal:
- Hey BFFs — What A Burn! Watch Sandra Bullock Gush Over Jesse James!
- Shock! Sandra Bullock Moves Out! Is Her Marriage Over?
- Does Jesse James Have a Type … Tattooed? And Is Ink-Free Sandra The Odd Woman Out?
- EXCLUSIVE! The Day After The Oscars, Jesse James' Alleged Mistress Complained About A Lack Of Sex
- Sandra Bullock Heartbroken! Will She Still Fight For Jesse James To Win Custody Of His Little Girl?
- Jesse James Made Shocking Accusations of Violence Against His Ex-Wife!


text:
Team Sparkle
I'm doing it.
I'm going to run a 5k in September.
I'm going to lift weights.
I'm going to bike everywhere I possibly can.
I'm going to lose 100 lbs.
I'm going to run a marathon in 2013.
Changing your habits, your lifestyle, and yourself is a very difficult process.
|Team Sparkle: Double D, Scott, Me, and Alana
I work at a large museum that practically every Midwesterner visits at some point. I started noticing people around my age who couldn't walk up 3 flights of stairs or had trouble covering the entire distance of the museum. I started to think there must have been a point when they could have turned it around. I'm not saying it is ever fully impossible, however, when someone can barely walk because of their weight I can see where it starts to feel like an impossibility. This made me start to look at myself more carefully. I began to realize how inactivity and an unhealthy lifestyle can creep up on you. It had creeped up on me. I wasn't really heavier than I have been at other points in my life but I was flabbier, softer, quickly tired, eating all the time, and yet totally malnourished. That's how you get to the point where you can't climb stairs at the age of 30. It isn't an overnight thing but a decade of bad choices, lack of focus, and self loathing that enabled me to keep with a destructive lifestyle.
I decided then and there that I didn't want to live a life of self destruction. I want to live a healthy, active, and engaging life.
A year later I actually started working on changing for good and making a complete lifestyle change.
In the year following my decision and getting to the point where I actually started working towards my goal there were a few failed attempts to become more active and to eat better. They failed pretty quickly and I burnt out fast trying to do it all by myself. I would go out and buy, for lack of a better word, vats of cookie dough. There were huge bags of candy that I would consume in my room with the wrappers covering my floor, serving as a reminder of what I just did. A lot of shame comes when you have one of these binges. The shame last 4 to 5 times longer than the satisfaction of having just torn apart an entire pie.
As a very goal orientated person I knew I need to pick some BIG goal. Something that wasn't coming up too quickly and would give me time to work towards it with smaller milestones leading up to it. I knew exactly what it had to be, something I have always wanted to do. I like to be mentally and physically challenged. It had to be a... MARATHON. The fact that people laughed whenever I brought up the idea of me running a marathon when I haven't even run a 5K was a good indicator to me that it is the perfect goal.
There is a weird amount of embarrassment involved with saying you want to lose weight or get in shape or quit an addiction (sometimes it's a 3-for-1). It means having to admit out loud to another person that there is a problem, even though odds are other people can already see the problem you are so desperate not to acknowledge.
I thought weight loss and better health could be mastered the same way I took on knitting. Someone takes an hour to show me the basics, makes uncomfortable faces at my awkwardness, then I go into another room for the next two days watching Barbara Streisand movies and when I re-appear I have a scarf. It turns out while knit and purl is a challenge, it is nothing compared to eating healthy.
I have a tendency to crumble if I know anyone is paying attention to me. Crippling stage fright has plagued me my whole life. I wasn't able to knit when my mom, who was teaching me, was looking over my shoulder. I had to be able to go in another room and fail and succeed and fail without anyone noticing. That's how I wanted weight loss to be- in another room, alone, where no one can see me fail they just see the end result of my triumph.
Also, when speaking of weight loss I feel the weight loss reality shows have hurt people. How so? They hurt people because we all love the idea of the "Big Reveal". The moment you come out with the lights on you, in a tight skirt, and some rockin' heels. However, if you aren't leaving your world behind the "Big Reveal" is impossible. And trying to hide or keep your goals a secret seems fruitless. No one can help, encourage, or join you if it is a secret in hopes of some moment of revelation in others. And you are unable to help, encourage, and set an example for others if you are keep your own struggle a secret.
Once I decided to run a marathon, for me, it meant game on. I needed to get in shape for this test of endurance. That meant eating better and working out. I also knew I needed to include at least one other person that would be with me all the way to the end. To me the natural person to ask was my best friend, Scott. When I asked him if he would commit to the next year and half of training, races, and finally the 2013 Chicago Marathon; he laughed in my face and said, "no". I wasn't surprised by his answer.
Scott and I are not friends because we have so much in common that it was inevitability. We met when I crashed a party at his place and proceeded to talk to him because he has a Frisian last name. I am an extrovert to the nth degree combined with a relatively open nature. Scott in contrast is introverted and a very private person (I'm sure if he reads this he is not happy that he is even mentioned in this- tough cookies! :P). And where I have a tendency to give a resounding "yes" without thinking about the situation, Scott will give an automatic "no". Sometimes he comes around other times he'll let the gut reaction "no" remain.
When it came to the marathon question a few days later he came around and said he was in. I am so glad he decided to go on this journey with me and to know I'm not alone, it made a world of difference in my training and focus to know someone will be there for me. Also, it's been nice to see him reengaging with a healthier routine after the most tragic and stressful year of his life had moved him away from a healthy lifestyle.
I began a quest to recruit more people. To keep me accountable but to also give others a goal to work towards as they try to become healthier and happier people. I know that to ask people to commit to a a marathon is a bit much, so I have begun with the Bucktown 5K in September. This particular 5K was chosen because it has a particularly nice goodie bag combined with being enough in the future to get people to join in and start running. So far two others have committed to running the Bucktown 5K with Scott and I; our friends Alana and Daniel David (Double D). I am so excited for all of us and have started calling us Team Sparkle. I'm committing myself to helping the other members of Team Sparkle live more active lives.
I have read lots of articles about how your friend groups influence your health and weight. Maybe I have had a negative impact on friends in the past because I didn't take care of myself. I hope now and in the future I can be a good influence on my friends lives instead of a detrimental one. The only requirement there is to being apart of Team Sparkle is the taking responsibility for your life and to live an active and engaging life.
It's encouraging not to feel alone in this struggle anymore. To feel others are helping me and maybe I'm helping someone else.
Remember if you want to see change, than you have to be the change.
And most of all sparkle so the world can see you.


text:
Lehman Invites UAW Boss to Debate
June 7, 2012
Mr. Bob King
President, UAW
UAW International Headquarters
Detroit, MI 48124
Dear Bob,
I was genuinely disappointed when event organizers said you withdrew from our scheduled debate over the "Protect Our Jobs" ballot initiative at the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce's Mackinac Island Policy Conference last week. I looked forward to a lively and informative exchange on this far-reaching constitutional amendment. John Bayerl, who served as your last-minute replacement, did a fine job, but I'm sure the attendees would rather have heard your take on a proposal you've passionately endorsed.
I'd like to extend an open invitation to you to schedule one or more joint public appearances where the two of us can discuss and debate our respective views on the issue. As we are both aware, the outcome of this proposal will have a major impact on state, local and school policies for decades to come. I believe voters would be well served by a forthright and public debate between us as they make up their minds in the coming months.
Please feel free to contact me at 989-631-0900 so that we can arrange a date or dates that are mutually convenient.
Joseph G. Lehman
Mackinac Center for Public Policy
(Note: A copy of this letter was faxed and mailed to UAW President Bob King at UAW Headquarters on June 7, 2012.)


text:
ASUS Notebook Conexant Audio Driver 22.214.171.124 for Windows 8.1 64-bit Windows 8 driver download - Windows 8 Downloads
ASUS Notebook Conexant Audio Driver 188.8.131.52 for Windows 8.1 64-bit
ASUS Notebook Conexant Audio Driver 188.8.131.52 for Windows 8.1 64-bit - Details
|File Size:
|Windows 8.1 64 bit
|Jun 30, 2015
|Total: 205 | This Month: 205
|ASUS Notebook Conexant Audio Driver 220.127.116.11 for Windows 8.1 64-bit, ASUS Conexant Audio Driver, ASUS Notebook Sound Driver, ASUS Notebook Audio Driver, Notebook, Audio, Conexant, ASUS
ASUS Notebook Conexant Audio Driver 220.127.116.11 for Windows 8.1 64-bit driver for Windows 8 - Full description
This package contains the files needed for installing the Conexant Audio Driver for ASUS Notebooks. If it has been installed, updating (overwrite-installing) may fix problems, add new functions, or expand existing ones. Even though other OSes might be compatible as well, we do not recommend applying this release on platforms other than the ones specified.
About Sound Card Drivers:
Usually, Windows operating systems apply a generic audio driver that allows computers to recognize the sound card component and make use of its basic functions.
When enabled by proper files, the characteristics of the sound card (like model, manufacturer, number of channels) are completely available to computers, and all its features are made accessible.
Updating the audio version can improve sound quality, resolve different compatibility issues, fix related errors spotted throughout the product's usage, add support for new operating systems, and bring various other changes.
As for applying this package, the steps are quite simple since each producer intends to uncomplicate things for users: just download the package, run the setup, and follow the on-screen instructions.
Bear in mind that, even though other operating systems might be compatible as well, it is not recommend that you apply any software on platforms other than the specified ones. Also, when the installation has finished, do perform a restart to ensure that all changes take effect properly.
Therefore, if you wish to install this audio version, click the download button and apply the package. Remember to check with our website as often as possible to stay "updated one minute ago."


text:
Register your private accout:
Choose PrivateBlogs.org for your free adult private blog! PrivateBlogs.org is free writes your general thoughts, publishes your pictures, and archives your posts. With PrivateBlogs.org you don't need to have any HTML experience. The blogs are completely FREE to set up and use, easy to deal with and run on the popular and reliable Wordpress blog engine.
Are you ready to sign up for your free blog account now?


text: Handpainted, Double Decker, Trick Limited Edition 87 Snap! Crackle! Pop! Color explodes like fireworks from every piece. With the rocket's red glare and bombs bursting in air, this explosively bright handpainted Limited Edition Trick puzzle will have you seeing stars. A dandy party puzzle for all Yankee Doodles. The July 4, 1987 handpainted Limited Edition Trick puzzle contains a series of wonderful booby traps. To show you more would give away too much. The bright cheery colors of reds, blues, gold, and silver will leave you feeling like you've walked smack dab into the middle of a celebration. The amazing and difficult irregular edge and insidious drop-outs will feel mindboggling, but the final solution promises to be breathtaking.


text:
Basic Da General - Buried Alive (Up & Coming Rapper From Washington Heights And Dyckman, NY)[Unsigned Hype]
"YouTube.com/BasicDaGeneral YouTube.com/LooneyBinFilms email@example.com FaceBook Link Add Me -http://touch.facebook.com/?w2m#profile.php New Mixtape Called "The Connect" Coming out in november"
Please click the "Report" button below if the video on this page is not working properly.
Comments will only be displayed by verified emails. No Spamming or Racism.


text:
The Packers might not have a left tackle at the moment, but they're adding a quarterback.
Former first-rounder Vince Young worked out for the Packers today, and it apparently went well.
According to Ed Werder of ESPN, the Packers were "impressed," by Young's workout and "will attempt to sign" him. Moments later, ESPN colleague Josina Anderson reported a one-year deal would be signed.
Werder also noted that the Packers' first two games were against the 49ers and Redskins, implying that Young's presence will make it easier somehow to prepare for those two.
Without seeing Young play, it's hard to know if he's good enough to replicate Colin Kaepernick and Robert Griffin III closely enough for them to benefit.


text:
Free shipping to EU over 35€
10% discount with newsletter subscription
Never stop dreaming BIG!
Explore our selection designed for all dreamers.
Plan your days in style with Legami 16-month Diaries. Colourful, made in Italy and at 50% off! Choose your favourite
Choose your favourite calendar from the many subjects available. Counting the days has never been so pleasant.
Lined notebooks are ideal to record thoughts, storing memories and taking notes. Perfect in the office, at school and in your spare time. Unleash your creativity.
Match a birthday card with your Legami gift. Original and fun!
Espresso, American coffee, tea, milk: every drink has its mug. Discover all the fantastic Legami cups!
Your journey begins here: discover the essential products to travel smart and with style!
Explore our selection of gift ideas for dreamers and be inspired. Finding a gift it's never been easier!
Today I'd like to...
Take a trip
Have a cuddle
Time travel
Space travel
Be happy!
Shower beat
Among the colourful Legami gift cards and bags you can find suitable subjects for every occasion: birthdays, weddings, graduation parties and much more.
Do you need help?
Contact us and you'll receive an answer soon.
Find a store


text:
Farm Journal Pulse celebrates a successful first year
The Farm Journal Pulse, a text message survey of farmers and ranchers, is celebrating its first birthday. Beginning in January 2012, Farm Journal blasted out 24 questions to the national producer panel during the course of the year.
Partnering with Commodity Update, the leading provider of agricultural information to mobile phones, Farm Journal sends out a question via text message on the first and third Wednesday of each month. Results are displayed on an interactive map.
Up to a couple thousand people cast votes in each survey. In 2012, farmers provided instant insight on crop production practices, machinery fleets, governmental influence and more.
For instance, we learned that 34% of 1,450 respondents use NH3 as their primary nitrogen source. UAN32 is the next most popular source, followed by a combination of fertilizer products.
We also learned in 2012 that only a few of the more than 1,600 respondents have a brand-new planter. Only 13% reported new iron, while 32% have a planter that is two to five years old and 22% have a planter that is six to 10 years old. The remaining 33% reported a planter older than 11 years.
The U.S. government has ties to agriculture—but, which arm impacts farmers most? Nearly 1,200 respondents say USDA and the Environmental Protection Agency top the list, with the Food and Drug Administration third.
You're invited to be part of the heartbeat of our national producer panel. Participating is as easy as answering two poll questions per month via text message. To sign up to participate in the survey, text "Pulse" to 46786. To see a full listing of past Farm Journal Pulse polls, visit www.FarmJournalPulse.com


text:
|Student type
|Fees to pay
|UK students
|EU students
|International students
Teacher Training @ Knutsford
Design and Technology (294J)
PGCE with QTS full time
- Accredited body
- Liverpool John Moores University
- Financial support
- Bursary or student finance if you're eligible
- Qualification
PGCE with QTS
A postgraduate certificate in education (PGCE) with qualified teacher status (QTS) will allow you to teach in state schools in England and may allow you to teach in other parts of the UK.
It may also allow you to teach overseas, though you should always check what qualifications are needed in the country you'd like to teach in.
Many PGCE courses include credits that count toward a Master's degree.
- Course length
- 1 year
- Date you can apply from
- 8 October 2019
- Date course starts
- August 2020
- Website
- https://www.knutsfordacademy.org.uk/teachertraining/teacher-training-knutsford/
- About the course
- Interview process
- How school placements work
- Fees
- Financial support
- Requirements
- About the training provider
- Training with disabilities and other needs
- Contact details
- Apply
- Support and advice
About the course
Our PGCE programme begins in late August with Enrolment week at LJMU and finishes late June, the following year. The programme comprises of four days class contact, along with one professional training day each week. Trainees are based at their home school from Monday to Thursday and follow a Professional Studies Programme on Fridays. The Professional Studies programme is delivered predominantly at the Knutsford Academy site, supported by online learning and University based sessions. The programme covers all the knowledge and understanding that trainees need, to prepare for a successful career in teaching. Practising School Leaders give an insight into day to day life at school, with key note talks on safeguarding, managing data, managing behaviour, making successful job applications, and supporting Vulnerable Students. LJMU colleagues provide lectures on key educational theories and pedagogical research, plus they provide context for assignments. There is a strong emphasis on social justice issues in education and on mental health and well-being. Sessions are largely workshop-based and participatory so that theoretical, research-informed teaching is explicitly linked to its practical implications for the classroom.
The placement model is broken down into three phases, as outlined below. Teaching expectations and timetable commitments increase as the year progresses: Phase 1 - Observation and beginning teaching and learning. Phase 2 - Consolidating and developing teaching and learning. Phase 3 - Extending teaching and learning leading to Qualifying to Teach
The Postgraduate Certificate is assessed through two modules. The course team and partnership schools have worked together to ensure that the PGCE Award is both relevant and manageable. The Award of QTS is integral to one of the academic Modules. Trainees also submit one academic essay, in two parts, which focuses on reflecting on aspects of your practice.
Interview process
Candidates who are short-listed will be invited for an interview at Knutsford Academy. You will meet with representatives from both the University and the lead school. We will cover an introduction to the training programme, along with general issues in education and what it means to be a teacher. You will deliver a 5 minute presentation on a previously prepared topic and this will be followed by a 20 minute individual interview. Your individual interview will explore subject specific issues, as well as your reasons for teaching. It will explore your attitudes to young people and your understanding of what teaching entails. You will be judged on your ability to communicate clearly and on your engagement with the interview panel.
How school placements work
TT@K will arrange and provide a quality placement experience for all candidates in two schools. You will spend the majority of your time in your home school placement, plus 6 weeks after Christmas in an alternate placement.
We partner a range of schools across Cheshire and Manchester and are continually increasing these. They currently include:
Hartford High School, Northwich County High School Leftwich, Northwich Weaverham High School, Weaverham Winsford Academy, Winsford Middlewich High School, Middlewich Werneth School, Stockport Marple Hall School, Marple, Stockport Eaton Bank, Congleton Tytherington High School, Macclesfield Macclesfield Academy, Macclesfield St Cuthberts Catholic High, St Helens Golborne High School, Warrington Helsby High School, Helsby St Pauls Catholic High School, Wythenshawe
Financial support
You'll get a bursary of £15,000 if you have a degree of 2:2 or above in any subject.
You don't have to apply for a bursary - if you're eligible, you'll automatically start receiving it once you begin your course. Find out about eligibility and how you'll be paid.
You may be eligible for a loan while you study – note that you'll have to apply for undergraduate student finance.
Find out about financial support if you're from outside the UK.
You should hold, or be expected to achieve, a first degree (or recognised equivalent) in an Art and Design related discipline, normally with significant content in your chosen subject area. The degree classification should be at 2:2 or above. You should also have GCSE Maths and English Language at grade C or above, or an approved Equivalency test successfully completed by the end of July 2020.
About the training provider
Teacher Training @ Knutsford (TT@K) is a School Direct Teacher Training programme developed in partnership between Knutsford Multi Academy Trust and Liverpool John Moores University.
Knutsford Academy is the Lead School for this programme and we are now looking to recruit trainee teachers who have the potential to be outstanding in the classroom. Our training programme develops inspirational teachers with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of delivering excellence in teaching and learning. Your award is a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) with QTS.
We provide ongoing support to all of our trainees, along with guidance and advice to enable you to become an outstanding professional. Support comes from a wide variety of different professionals based at Knutsford Academy, our partnership schools, external organisations and Liverpool John Moores University.
For more information, please contact us: firstname.lastname@example.com
About the accredited body
A major advantage of studying with TT@K is the support that Liverpool John Moores University provides to all of our trainees.
The University can offer advice through its Student Services team on finance queries such as access to hardship loans, Careers Guidance, help finding somewhere to live, or a confidential one-on-one with a qualified counsellor. In addition, there is an impressive Library Service available to ensure that all students get the best out of the extensive information resources and excellent learning facilities.
Training with disabilities and other needs
At Knutsford Multi Academy Trust we are committed to working together to provide an inspirational and exciting learning environment where everybody can develop an enthusiasm for life-long learning. We believe that staff and pupils alike should feel happy, safe and valued, so that they gain a respectful and caring attitude towards each other and the environment. We are also committed to providing an environment that enables full curriculum access, plus one that values and includes all students, staff, parents and visitors regardless of their education, physical, sensory, social, spiritual, emotional and cultural needs. We are committed to taking positive action in the spirit of the Equality Act 2010 with regard to disability and to developing a culture of inclusion, support and awareness within the school.
Furthermore, LJMU offer excellent support to all students with a disability or specific learning difficulty (SpLD) e.g. dyslexia. This is provided through the University's Inclusive Services team, who have highly experienced staff members.
Contact details
- firstname.lastname@example.com
- Telephone
- 01565633294
- Website
- https://www.knutsfordacademy.org.uk/teachertraining/teacher-training-knutsford/
- Address
Knutsford Multi Academy Trust
Bexton Road
Support and advice
For questions about this course you should contact the training provider using the contact details above.
Get support and advice about teaching
Register with Get Into Teaching, the Department for Education's free support and advice service, for personalised guidance from teaching experts. They can help you to prepare your application, book school experience, and access exclusive teaching events. You can also call them free of charge on 0800 389 2500, or speak to an adviser using their online chat service, from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday.
Website support
If you have feedback or have had a problem using Find postgraduate teacher training you can contact us by email.
Is there something wrong with this page?
If there is something wrong with this course listing, contact us by email.


text:
By Scott Corrales
Inexplicata-The Journal of Hispanic UFOlogy
UFO Digest Latin America Correspondent
Another UFO Encounter in the Spanish Sahara
[Researcher Alfonso Ferrer has just reminded us of another – and more spectacular – case involving the Canary Islands and the Spanish Sahara. Our readers will remember the review of his book "El Reloj del Fin del Mundo" that we presented in INEXPLICATA in 2009 – S. Corrales]
An Extraordinary Aerial Encounter in the Canary Islands
By Alfonso Ferrer – http://alfonferrer.blogspot.com/2009/10/insolito-encuentro-aereo-en-canarias.html
Date: 3 October 2009
It was the year 1968. On a springtime evening, a Fokker aircraft belonging to the IBERIA airline flew its routine service from Las Palmas (Canary Islands) to Villa Cisneros in the Western Sahara. The flight was proceeding normally until the aircraft, within sight of its destination, found itself escorted by a light of unknown origin. When the Fokker commenced its approach maneuvers and descended, the unidentified light shot off into the sky. But the story doesn't end here.
Veteran pilot Paco Andreu, a member of the Fokker's crew along with Cmdr. Ciudad on that March 14th, 41 years ago, told us about his experiences on the return flight to Las Palmas, in which the UFO made a repeat appearance. This is a unique account, provided by an expert aviator who has an encounter with an unidentified light/object in the air. It is doubly interesting by the fact that the sighting occurred in mid-air (the same medium occupied by the UFO). Moreover, these are the words of an expert who is clearly able to distinguish between an airplane and a star, without this inferring that airliner pilots are infallible in their observations, or not immune to error. They are human beings, like everyone lese. Furthermore, Andreu's words have the virtue of having remain unchanged over time. He contributes no elements that might suggest a mystical reading of the event on his part. The story is told in a sober and dispassionate manner. A sincere, objective and highly interesting report.
[The entire interview (in Spanish) can be heard on the Cronicas del Misterio podcast at http://www.ivoox.com/encuentro-aereo-ovni-tumba-abierta-audios-mp3_rf_13… – we are taking the liberty of transcribing only a few items of Paco Andreu's experiences – SC]
Interviewer: So tell us what happened that day.
Paco Andreu: Well, let's start. It was March 14 1968, I was a pilot for Spantax at the time, for some 7 months as a co-pilot, and the flight was from Las Palmas to Villa Cisneros. The entire flight went without incident until we reached the vicinity of Villa. Then we were about to start our descent, and looking to our left we saw a light descending at the same angle of descent as our plane, matching our speed. At that time I remarked to the commander if he wanted me to ask Villa Cisneros Tower of the traffic we had in sight. We thought it was another plane. So we contacted Villa Cisneros and told them that to our left we had some traffic, and could we please receive some information about it. A few seconds went by, and Villa Cisneros answered that there was no traffic reported in that area. We were startled, and immediately following, the light that descended with us at an angle that was perhaps 5-10 degrees, ascended at a 60-80 degree angle and took off with an emanation, losing itself in infinity. There were no clouds, it was a very clear night, and it became lost from sight. In the meantime, we exchanged glances and said "let's cut the maneuvers and land immediately for the safety of our passengers and our own." So we landed with short traffic, landed and upon descending we remarked the situation with the personnel of Iberia, because the flight was for Iberia. So we discussed it with the Iberia field officer, and then with a military doctor from the legion, who was a big fan of astronomy. We discussed all we'd seen, and they were left between belief and disbelief. They joked with us and such, but time went by, the layover had ended, passengers boarded the plane for the return trip. We got going. We rolled toward the end of the runway, lined up for takeoff, requested authorization from the tower, received it, and we took off. And it only…within not even a minute of being airborne, we got a call from the tower telling us […]: "Iberia 372, you have a light to your right." we looked, and the light that had accompanied during descent was back again. I replied: "Yes, yes, affirmative, we have a light flying beside us." They said: "Could you advise us if this could compromise flight safety?" We said: "Well, for the time being, if it holds its position, no, it's not affecting us." "Well, for your information, I can tell you that as you rolled down the runway, the light passed over the airport, flying very low and giving off blue and red flashes." [The object] the stopped over a barracks that belonged to the legion, as I recall it was the Tercio Juan de Austria. It remained static. They watched the object from the airport with binoculars, consulted with the doctor who was an astronomy fan, and they all said that it was nothing known at the time, because as it flew low over the airport, it made no engine sound. It was silent. It remained static, we took off, and when we passed its altitude, it started to follow us, climbing at our same rate of speed, much like it did during our descent. We checked our nav and radio equipment and everything was ok, it wasn't affecting us. So the tower insisted that if that thing jeopardized flight safety, we should inform them at all times. And so we did. Once we reached cruising altitude – some 5000 meters or 15,000 feet – the object stayed with us, but started to wobble at that time, being at the very same altitude as we were. At times it would get above us, and on others it would remain below us, before climbing and staying with us. After a while it repeated it. This, of course, left us stunned, because no airplane or object known to us could do it. There was no effect of gravity or anything. So we kept flying and began our flight – about an 1 ½ hour went by – our ETA for Las Palmas was around 10 pm, we advised the control, and…well, when we began our descent toward Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, we had stratiform clouds near the island, so we descended through the clouds and started to question whether we were mistaking the light of the UFO with the stars, because it could no longer be seen clearly. And we landed. And once the passengers had debarked, we found that the press was at the airport.
Interviewer: So the story had become known, and the media had learned of it through some leak.
Paco Andreu: We can suppose that some member of the control center at Las Palmas had a buddy or friend who worked for a newsroom and called them, telling them that a flight was coming in from Villa Cisneros followed by a strange gadget.
Other voice: Paco, this is Jorge. What was the size of the light? Could you give us more details?
Paco Andreu: Well, how could I best describe it…it was a source of light like an airplane beacon that is about to land, a strong light, but it wasn't a projected light. it was like a luminous sphere.
Interviewer: Because when it came to reckoning distance…
Paco Andreu: Of course, it was very complicated. We, on our right, headed for Gran Canaria, we had the shore and the desert. Without towns or lights or anything that could give us a distance calculation, I don't know, it could have been 2-3 miles away by our calculations, but it could have been 50 miles away, because it may have been a gigantic thing, but distance made it seem small.
Interviewer: Paco, this truly interesting, perhaps one of the most interesting ones I can think of as UFO sightings go, especially coming from an expert aviator like yourself. Did you dismiss the possibility that it was a military maneuver? You mention the presence of a military base nearby.
Paco Andreu: You can figure that in the year 1968 military maneuvers in the desert were few. The known military craft at the time had bases in Gran Canarias and in El Aaiun, were Junkers transport aircraft, a plane from 1934-35, so it was impossible that it could make such maneuvers. And then, the only thing it could have been…there were no helicopters yet…or yes, there was a helicopter unit at Los Rodeos, but they were there for evacuation service and emergency purposes only, so the Sahara region may have had piston driven T-6 aircraft but nothing resembling what we saw.
Interviewer: We discussed the likelihood that it could have been a star.
Paco Andreu: No, no, never. A star we don't see…a star we see above us, like you do from the ground. But we'd sometimes see it below us. It couldn't be a star. Nor was it a comet. We've seen an infinite number of comets in flight, and we know their trajectory and patterns. There's something else there. Don't know if its manned, unmanned or guided automatically at a distance. no idea. There could be many conjectures about it. But the fact is that what we saw was that. And the truth is that I never forgot it, despite the years that have gone by.
(Translation & transcription (c) 2012, S. Corrales, IHU. Special thanks to Alfonso Ferrer)
Visit Scott's website" http://inexplicata.blogspot.com/