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Q: How do Nordic absorbers help to solve moisture problems?
Nordic absorbers contain Calcium chloride that very aggressively grab and absorb moisture from the air. They dry the air. When the air is dry, there are no moisture problems.
Q: Can Nordic absorbers solve all moisture problems?
Well, not all. Some cargoes may be so wet that any reasonable number of Nordic absorbers get overwhelmed. But Nordic absorbers can reliable protect even very difficult cargoes that may contain tons of moisture, such as coffee beans, wood products or paper.
Q: I load my container under dry conditions and it is very tightly sealed. How come I still experience moisture problems?
Your cargo or the packaging, including container floors, pallets and crates, contain moisture that is evaporated into the air during transport. Wet packaging material is the most common cause of unexpected moisture problems.
Q: I have shipped the same cargo for years with Nordic absorbers without any trouble, but now I have a lot of damage. Have you changed the poles?
Check your container and your packaging material. Did you just start to store your pallets outdoors? Does your forklift drive into the container with snow on the wheels? Did you just change supplier of crates? You can't tell by looking whether wood are carton is dry. The moisture properties of wood and cartons have an exponential character. It makes a huge difference if your pallets moisture content should be 20% instead of 17%, say.
Q: I ship consumer goods in tubes/cans/jars etc that contain no moisture, yet I still have problems.
Consumer goods are often shipped with a lot of cardboard packaging. Even if the boxes seem dry they could literally hold tons of water.
Q: Each container of my cargo of peanuts/coffee/cocoa contains tons of moisture. What difference does it make that Nordic absorbers absorb a few litres during a voyage?
All the important things that happen have an exponential character. That means that a small change in circumstances can have a huge effect on the outcome. Nordic absorbers create circumstances that allow almost all of the moisture to remain in the cargo even while the level of humidity in the air is lowered by a crucial amount, sufficient to prevent damage. It is a question of "leverage".
Q: Does it make a lot of difference that my cocoa beans have a moisture content of 8% instead of 7%?
Yes, such a difference could be all the difference between no damage and disaster. The moisture behaviour of most agricultural products have a strong exponential character.
Q: My cargo of peanuts had suffered damage in the centre even though the outside of the cargo looked fine and there was were no signs of condensation?
Lots, if not most, damage to cargoes is caused by prolonged periods of elevated humidity without any condensation (Container rain, Container sweat, Super Saturation Event). It is common that cargoes loaded at cool temperature and then moved into warm condition suffer damage in the centre of the cargo as a result of a difference in temperature between the outside and the centre of the cargo. Warm air from the outside of the cargo becomes humid as it moves into the cooler centre. Nordic absorbers protect against this effect even though the absorbers are mounted on the container walls.
Q: I had damage to my cargo even though I used lots of silica gel and there was no condensation. Would it help to switch to Nordic absorbers?
Calcium chloride absorbs moisture even when the humidity is not very high. This protects the cargo against damage caused by prolonged periods of elevated humidity. Some kinds of steel start to corrode at 70% relative humidity, moulds can grow at 80% relative humidity and at near 90% relative humidity lots of things go wrong. Yet, Nordic absorbers are also at their most efficient protecting against condensation. Most other products, such as silica gels, are really effective only in very humid conditions and in protecting the cargo against condensation damage.
Q: What is so great about Nordic absorbers anyway?
Well, they will not fall off the wall, get punctured during loading and unloading, leave a wet puddle on the cargo or run out after half the voyage. They are installed in seconds without ladders and take up no cargo space. The capacity of each absorber is big, so fewer is required. The cost of an installation is very competitive, even against much inferior alternatives.
Q: How many absorbers do I need?
The number of Nordic absorbers required to protect the cargo depends on the cargo, the temperature conditions during the voyage, the length of the voyage – and just how safe you want to be. For some really dry cargoes e.g.. steel coils or household removals, 2-3 Nordic absorbers are enough. For a lot of "normal" goods 4-6 Nordic absorbers is about right. Some cargoes with very difficult moisture properties on long voyages may require up to 16 Nordic absorbers.
Q: Do I need to line my container with kraft paper?
Lots of containers are lined with Kraft paper primarily for reasons of hygiene or to simply isolate the cargo from direct contact with the container walls. The liner will act as a kind of sponge, catching and absorbing any droplets of water and then re-evaporating the moisture into the air. If liner is used without Nordic absorbers it could contribute top a kind of pumping effect, drawing moisture out of the cargo. When used together with Nordic absorbers the liner will act as a buffer in extreme conditions, and will prevent any container rain from reaching the cargo. Much the same can be said for so called dew cloths.
Q: My container is absolutely filled with cargo. Will the Nordic absorbers still work?
Moisture diffuses very effectively, even through a seemingly compact cargo. Experience shows that Nordic absorbers will make a difference even to mould growth inside cartons in the cargo. It is, however, necessary that some free space is left in front of each Nordic absorbers. If some Nordic absorbers have collected less water than others inside a container, there may be a problem with air access to those absorbers.
Q: I have problems with mould growth inside my shrink-wrapped pallets. Will Nordic absorbers help?
Yes, so long that there is some access of air through the top and bottom of the pallets. If this is not possible, a spiked roller may be used to tear holes in the shrink wrap.
Q: My shipments of steel/galvanised components/aluminium/machinery etc arrives corroded, stained or discoloured despite heavy packaging. Will Nordic absorbers help?
You can forget about your Tectyl, coatings, oil-paper and plastic wraps that are expensive both to apply and remove. Your container can probably be equipped with a sufficient number of Nordic absorbers to protect against any damage at less cost than your present packaging.
Q: I got some brine on my hands while removing used Nordic absorbers . Is it dangerous?
No it isn't. Calcium chloride is non-toxic and environmentally safe. It is the second biggest constituent of sea-salt and is liberally sprinkled over icy roads in cold countries. The brine is somewhat similar to very salty seawater, and may cause irritation and rashes if left to dry on the skin. We recommend that you wear gloves and goggles when handling used absorbers, but should you get splashed by brine just wash off immediately with lots of fresh water.
Q: Can I re-cycle my used absorbers?
The absorbers can not be re-used but can be disposed of environmentally friendly. It doesn't contain any harmful chemicals.
More information on desiccant and moisture
Calcium chloride based container desiccant to prevent moisture problems
Related articles
- Nordic Power Desiccant – Frequently Asked Questions: (wordpress.interdrythailand.com)
- What are Pallets and Palletizing in Shipping? (shippingandfreightresource.com)
- Formation of condensation in container due to temperature changes by sunlight (wordpress.interdrythailand.com)


text: School and Playground Safety for Teachers Did you know… Each year in the United States, emergency departments treat more than 200,000 children ages 14 and younger for playground-related injuries? About 45% of playground-related injuries are severe, resulting in fractures, internal injuries, concussions, dislocations, and amputations? About 75% of non-fatal injuries related to playground equipment occur on public playgrounds? Most occur at schools and daycare centers. Between 1990 and 2000, 147 children ages 14 and younger died from playground-related injuries? Of them, 82 (56%) died from strangulation and 31 (20%) died from falls to the playground surface. Use these tips to ensure that the children in your care are safe on the playground and at school: Ensure there is safe surfacing beneath and surrounding all playground equipment in order to minimize the risks of falling. Acceptable loose-fill surfacing materials include shredded rubber, hardwood fiber mulch or chips, and fine sand. Rubber mats, synthetic turf and other artificial materials are also safe surfaces and require less maintenance. Avoid asphalt, concrete, grass and soil surfaces under playground equipment. They are not good at preventing injuries. Surfacing should be at least 12 inches deep and extend at least 6 feet in all directions around stationary equipment. Depending on the height of the equipment, surfacing may need to extend farther than 6 feet. Ensure that all playgrounds are inspected and maintained by qualified personnel. Daily, monthly and annual maintenance schedules should be followed. Maintain separate play areas for children under age 5. Ensure that schools and childcare centers have age-appropriate, well-maintained playground equipment and that trained supervisors are present at all times when children are on the playground. Report any playground safety hazards to the organization responsible for the site (e.g., school, park authority, city council). Always supervise children using playground equipment. Stay where you can see and hear them. Prevent unsafe behaviors like pushing, shoving, crowding and inappropriate use of equipment. Ensure that children use age-appropriate playground equipment. Remove hood and neck drawstrings from all children's outerwear. Never allow children to wear helmets, necklaces, purses, scarves or clothing with drawstrings while on playgrounds. For more information, please visit the following websites: Safe Kids Worldwide Playground Safety Educator Portal Consumer Product Safety Commission Playground Safety Materials Centers for Disease Control Playground Injury Fact Sheet

subset: commoncrawl


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- All Multifilament Strings
- >
- Wilson NXT Power
Wilson NXT Power
per item
Note: This string was originally named Wilson NXT Tour. This is the same string.
Wilson's premier multifilament synthetic gut, NXT Power offers an even closer to gut-like feel than regular NXT. According to Wilson, it's the softest and most comfortable string in the NXT line. Designed with almost twice as many fibers as regular NXT, it offers a 15% increase in sweet spot size and 80% less vibration than traditional synthetic gut. With its superior power and comfort, Wilson gives this string its maximum playability rating. NXT Tour also offers impressive durability for a multifilament. It's an awesome choice for players of all levels and playing styles looking for near gut-like performance at half the cost.
- Gauge: 16/ 1.30mm, 17/ 1.26mm or 18/ 1.21mm
- Length: 40 feet / 12.2 m
- Construction: Multifilament Xycro Micro fibers bonded with polyurethane.
- Color: Natural


text:
crowd in(redirected from crowd in on him)
crowd in
1. To gather closely around someone or something. In this usage, "crowd in" can be followed by "on" and then a particular person or thing. When the teacher announced story time, the kids all crowded in. I hate when people crowd in on a buffet as soon as it's served.
2. To fill a space with more than it can reasonably hold or accommodate. In this usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "crowd" and "in," and "into" can be used instead of "in." We can't crowd anyone else in, unless we move the lecture to the auditorium.
3. To push one's way into a certain place or area. In this usage, "into" can be used instead of "in." We tried to crowd into the lecture hall, but the professor told us it was filled to capacity.
crowd someone or something in(to) somethingand crowd someone or something in
to push or squeeze someone or something into a place or a container. They tried to crowd a dozen people into that tiny room. Then they crowded in one more. They all tried to crowd themselves into the same room.
crowd in (on someone or something)
to press or crush around someone or something. Please don't crowd in on the guest of honor. Can you keep them back from me? I don't like it when they crowd in. The people crowded in on us and frightened us a little bit. Don't crowd in on the display case. It is an antique.
crowd in(to) some placeand crowd in
to push or squeeze into some place. Please don't try to crowd into this place. Too many people are trying to crowd in.


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Debbi Nelson loves to cook. Even a stroke she suffered in April has not stopped her from making meals for her family. Nelson, 46, is one of millions of Americans with disabilities who have learned techniques for maneuvering in a kitchen.
Debbi Nelson loves to cook. Even a stroke she suffered in April has not stopped her from making meals for her family. "My left side is weak; I can't stand for long periods of time or pick up heavy things. There are a lot of things I can't do anymore, but there are ways to get around the obstacles," said the Springfield woman. Nelson, 46, is one of millions of Americans with disabilities who have learned techniques for maneuvering in a kitchen. Whether mental or physical, disabilities can involve problems with balance, coordination, mobility, grip, sight, hearing, weakness, attention and memory. And those can lead to challenges in a kitchen, where tools and equipment may be hot, sharp or out-of-reach. For some, function can be improved with an adaptive device — such as a jar opener, extra-loud oven timer or non-skid counter mat to secure bowls. For others, alternative ways of moving or handling a task make it safer to cook. "A lot of people give up because it's so much work and it's easier not to do it. They'll say, 'I'm in a wheelchair so I can't cook,'" said Lisa Cline, an occupational therapist with Memorial Medical Center. Nelson, a former factory worker at Bunn-O-Matic, has figured out a few methods that help her prepare food. When there's a lot of chopping to do, she takes the food and a knife into her living room, where she can sit comfortably and cut on a sturdy table. In addition, she relies on her three slow cookers. "I use them all the time for things like roasts, meatballs, barbecue, enchiladas and soup. It lets me scoop the food out, instead of transporting a big, heavy pot," Nelson said. And she cooks in large quantities. "I'll throw plain chicken breasts or meatballs in the crockpot and cook them, then freeze them in bags. That way, I have them ready to go." At a recent workshop sponsored by Memorial Medical Center, Nelson saw a can opener that can be operated with just one hand. "When I make manicotti, I open cans of tomato sauce and tomato paste. It's very difficult for me to open cans. I want that can opener now," she said, vowing to buy one the next day. Sonali Bhole, a physical therapist and program coordinator for the stroke team at Memorial's Regional Rehabilitation Center, said people with disabilities should be encouraged to continue activities they enjoy. "It starts at home. Let them do as much as they can. It increases confidence." As a teaching tool, Bhole adapted a wooden cutting board by nailing in five stainless steel nails from the bottom. The nails act as a grip for hard vegetables, such as potatoes and carrots, securing them for slicing. Homemade adaptive devices can save money for people who have many medical expenses. "Before I started working with stroke survivors, I didn't even think someone wouldn't be able to afford $20," Bhole said. "But a lot of the people I work with have lost their jobs." The Illinois Assistive Technology Program, based in Springfield, is a not-for-profit agency that helps people with disabilities obtain and use adaptive devices, including those for the kitchen. For more information, go to www.iltech.org. Barbara Williams of Springfield was at the workshop with her husband, Dean. She had suffered a stroke just two weeks earlier, after returning home from a California vacation. "I've got a lot to learn," she said as she rolled her chair to stations at the workshop set up to demonstrate adaptive devices. "I want to go home and be the best that I can." Cline encourages people with disabilities to discuss limitations with their medical therapists. "A lot of times, the thing they can't do can be resolved with a simple adaptation." Nelson echoes that sentiment. "Don't give up. You will think of a way to do it. If you don't, talk to someone who may have an answer." This recipe for a filled holiday cake, from the dietitians at Memorial Medical Center, is ideal for calorie-restricted diets. Each large piece has 290 calories and 9 grams of fat. Pumpkin Suzi-Q Cake 1 box spice or carrot cake mix 2 (15-ounce) cans solid pumpkin 1 (8-ounce) package softened cream cheese, low-fat or fat-free 1 cup powdered sugar 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 1 (8-ounce) thawed container whipped topping, sugar-free, light or fat-free Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 13-by-9-inch pan with cooking spray. Mix the cake mix with 1 can of the canned pumpkin in a large bowl until well blended. (Batter will be very thick.) Pour mixture into pan and bake about 12-15 minutes, or until toothpick in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes and turn out onto wire rack. Cool completely. For the filling, beat cream cheese until creamy in small bowl with electric mixer on medium speed. Add powdered sugar, half of the second can of pumpkin and the pumpkin pie spice, blending all ingredients well. (Reserve the unused half-can of pumpkin for another use.) Stir in the whipped topping. Cut cake lengthwise into two halves. Spread filling on the bottom layer and top with the other half. Store in refrigerator. Note: Filling may be used as an icing on top instead of spread in the middle. Cake can be made in two round pans for a layer cake, or the recipe can be used for muffins. Makes 12 servings. Kathryn Rem can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Set in a dramatic gorge on the Tigris river, Hasankeyf's ruins date back to Assyrian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman times. But a massive dam and irrigation project could submerge the whole town.
On Tuesday, some 80 years after Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, first proposed tapping the storied Tigris and Euphrates for energy, the government will unveil plans to complete the stalled Southeastern Anatolia Project (GAP). The $32 billion project is intended to both provide Turkey with much-needed electricity and to pacify the restive Kurdish southeast, where rebels have capitalized on residents' economic grievances to build support.
But for locals and experts alike, big questions remain about GAP's effectiveness and whether it will be the magic bullet that lifts the southeast out of its long-standing economic and political troubles.
"The real problem with the project is the way it is being run.... Primarily what they did is an engineering project," says Ali Carkoglu, a political science professor at Istanbul's Sabanci University. "They are so preoccupied with conquering the geography that they are forgetting the more human issues," such as giving villages running water or developing local industry.
At least until now, GAP's achievements have made a bigger impact outside the southeast region. While the completion rate for hydroelectric projects, which mostly benefit western Turkey, is approximately 85 percent, the rate for irrigation projects, which are designed to boost agriculture in the arid southeast, is 24 percent.
And a recent study by the Turkish Confederation of Young Businessmen found that despite GAP's $20 billion investment in the southeast over the last two decades, the region's share of the national income is lower today than it was 40 years ago.
Mehmet Acikgoz, GAP's regional director, admits that irrigation had been previously neglected, mostly because of a lack of funding. But, he says, the project is now being approached with a renewed focus.
"One of the project's aims, especially, is to answer the social and economic problems in the region," Mr. Acikgoz said during an interview in his office, outside the southeastern city of Sanliurfa. "This region has a lot of potential. It has land, water, a young population, and this project is trying to bring out that potential."
For example, along with infrastructure projects, GAP also funds a number of social and economic development projects. In Sanliurfa and 28 other cities, the project supports community centers that offer childcare and educational courses for disadvantaged women.
Still, what is spent on projects like these is only a fraction of what GAP spends on dams and roads. Observers say that imbalance needs to be remedied if the restive Kurdish region is to be pacified.
"If the state doesn't take any steps towards solving the [ethnic] problem here both economically and politically, the problem will only get bigger," says Mehmet Kaya, president of the Diyarbakir Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Adds Professor Carkoglu: "Unless economic development is coupled with more substantial reforms on political and cultural grounds, economic reforms will not be sufficient.... Finishing the GAP project with a few billion dollars will still not do it."
For his part, GAP regional director Acikgoz sees no "ethnic problem" in the southeast.
"The only problem in this region is economic," he says.
In Hasankeyf, though, strong skepticism remains about whether GAP will be able to remedy the area's ills – economic or otherwise.
"Of course this project will improve Turkey's economic situation, but it won't have a positive impact on the lives of the people living here," says the town's mayor, Abdulvahap Kusen.
"If GAP was really improving the region, we should have already seen its impact. We still haven't seen an improvement here compared to other regions in Turkey."
As the waters of the Tigris flow swifly by him, soon-to-be restaurateur Edip Ipek says he doubts whether the $1.8 billion Ilisu dam that will be built 50 miles downstream will bring a better future for his town. "They are promising us that we will all be able to work in fishing after the dam is built and that there will be tourism," he says. "But how many of us can work in fishing?"


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Help Wiki
Recently our help files were corrupted during a server change and we are in the process of re-building them for the new version of the game opening in August 2014. If you need help playing please visit the message boards and ask questions or you can email firstname.lastname@example.com.
Thanks for your patience and understanding,
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this game free to play?
Yes! You can always play for free. There's no cost to join.
Do upgrades cost real money?
Yes. Upgrades cost real money, not game money. The cost of an upgrade ranges from $10 - $20 one time payments to $25 a year.
How do I buy a horse?
English - click on Your Account and then find the Buy A Horse button.
Racing - only stable owners can buy a horse. Stable owners go to Your Account, select Horses and find Buy A Horse.
How do I care for my horse?
English - Your horse must be fed, vetted and taken to a farrier on a regular basis. Go to Your Account, click on the horse you want to care for. Locate the feed button and buy feed for your horse. Next locate the Vet button and perform a vet procedure on your horse. Finally locate the farrier button and perform a farrier procedure on your horse. Horses that aren't cared for will die.
Racing - only stable owners and trainers can care for horses. Go to Your Account, then select Horses and find the Caretaker Checklist. Check the box for each horse next to the procedure you want to complete. When a horse is cared for the checkbox will be replaced by a colored square. When that's finished you still need to vet and farrier the horses. To do that you must go to Your Account, click on Horses, and then select the horse you want to vet or farrier. Locate the vet or farrier and pay them to care for your horse. If you don't have a vet or farrier yet you will need to assign one before you can pay them to care for your horse.
How do I show a horse?
English - Horses must be 2 or older to show in Halter and 4 or older to show in any other discipline. Go to Your Account and select Enter Shows. Pick the horse you want to show from the drop down list. Select the show you want to enter. Select how you want to ride your horse and hit the button when you're done.
Racing - only stable owners can show horses and horses must be 2-8 years old in order to race and have a trainer and jockey assigned to them. Go to Your Account and select Races. Select a race you want to enter. Only horses eligible for that race will appear in the drop down. Select a horse from the drop down and hit enter race.


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Prothom is a RESPONSIVE and MAILCHIMP compatible Email Template. It represent your information's to your subscriber's in a decent way. Prothom is highly responsive, beautiful, well documented and works in every email clients as well as browsers. It is mobile friendly as you expect the looking.
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Demo Images:
All demo images that are used on the preview template are from http://www.photodune.net/


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Mens Airwalk The One Skate Shoe - Black / Gum
Style #: 96494008
Meet your skateboarding solemate in The One Skate Shoe from Airwalk! Sporting an old school colorblock design, The One Skate Shoe features smooth suede uppers, padded collar for added comfort and support, EVA footbed for increased comfort, and flexible rubber outsole for optimal traction on or off the board. Available online at Journeys.com!
- Smooth suede upper with soft lining
- Padded collar for added comfort and support
- Lace closure offers a secure fit
- EVA cushioned footbed ensures lasting comfort
- Cupsole construction with durable gum rubber delivers flexible traction and natural board feel
Since Airwalk arrived on the scene in 1986, it has been a leader in the world of skateboarding and action sports lifestyle. Airwalk not only sponsored some of the biggest athletes, but also created the iconic kicks they wore while becoming legends.


text:
The One Where I Cave To Peer Pressure
I have been anxiously awaiting the beginning of Winter Veil for over a week now; agonizing over which toons would get the most attention so I didn't have to spend 6 hours a day trying to do all the things. So why is it I've spent less than 3 hours logged into WoW since last Friday morning? Because I allowed myself to cave to peer pressure. Not just from one person about one thing, but from two people about two different things. My weekend… it was overwhelming. It was also very fun and I enjoyed it greatly. Except for the part where I didn't get my fill of WoW time.
Wait? What am I rambling about? I'm talking about how I somehow ended up buying 2 new mmo's on Friday and played both of them all weekend. My dear friend, Lauren, has been talking up Guild Wars 2 to me since about 6 months before the game launched. Actually, talking it up isn't quite accurate. She's been bombarding me with information about it. Lol. Linking articles and youtube videos 4 or 5 times a week during our IM's at work. There was no pretending to read or watch these things either, she would quiz me afterwards about my opinion on specific things that were mentioned. I can't even count how many times I've told her I don't have time for another game and I'm not buying it. But last Friday morning she was all excited about the Winter event starting in GW2 and then on top of that she sent me a link where buying the Digital Edition would give me a free upgrade to the Deluxe Digital Edition. Since I know how it is to be excited about world events and since I love getting a good deal on collector's and deluxe editions, I broke down and bought it right then. I had already downloaded the game client to participate in a trial weekend Lauren talked me into a month or so ago, but I didn't spend much time in the game that weekend and never really gave it much of a chance. However, it meant my download time on Friday was minimal as I only needed to patch up from trial to full account. I settled in to character creation and then began my adventures. I had seen so many videos, thanks to my friend harassing me for so long, that it was pretty easy to figure out how everything worked. I spent several hours logged in leveling and was really enjoying it.
But then…
While tabbed out catching up with my Twitter feed, I spotted a tweet about Amazon selling The Secret World for only $15 as a special, limited time offer. I have a certain Canadian friend who has been wanting me and a few others to join him in The Secret World. Like Guild Wars 2, it does not require a subscription (it did initially, but that has recently changed) and how can you let a deal like $15 pass you by? So I jumped onto Gtalk and showed him the sale link, which he shared with another of our friends, and she and I both immediately purchased the game. I didn't start the download for The Secret World until I went to bed Friday night, so I didn't jump into game play until Saturday. I'm really enjoying it, but I'm finding it hard to think of it as an mmo like WoW or SWTOR or even GW2. It's more like playing Alan Wake or Silent Hill on Xbox 360 with the addition of General chat and other people running by you. But the 3 of us partied up and hopped into vent and went around killing zombies together. We weren't always on the same quests, as you are free to wonder around anywhere at any time and pick up random missions (there are no real levels as far as I can tell at this point), but we were all in the same area and crossed paths and helped each other out when we weren't lined up quest-wise. I actually ended up playing more TSW this weekend than any of the other games combined. Killing zombies is fun ya'll. It's a very creepy, very cool game. Plus there are lore objects hidden all over that need to be discovered and that's right up my alley.
So that was my weekend. I enjoyed my time in both of the new games, which really sucks because I was already having trouble deciding what I wanted to do just in WoW on a daily basis. Now I have even more fun options to choose from. And just for the record, this blog is titled Elfi's World and my world has now expanded, at least for the time being, but this will remain a WoW blog. I'm not saying I won't ever briefly mention my adventures elsewhere, but I assure you I will not clog up your WoW feed with posts about other games.


text:
home decor custom microwave square shape 0.5mm cast iron metal enamel dinner pie dish with black rim
March Purchase FestivalPriority Insurance Order Protection
1. Low MOQ;
3.Custom color and logo accepted;
4.Fast Delivery
1. Size: 29*23*5cm
2. Color: White, ceramy white
3. Rim: Black, red and blue
4. Logo: Customer's logo
5. The min. order: 1000 pcs
Our Customer
Guangzhou LST CO.,LTD.is a professional manufacturer to produce coffee mug,tea cup, enamel mug&cup,tableware sets etc.We are located in Guangzhou city, we provide the fantastic products portfolio with great quality,efficient service and competitive price. We are looking forwards to your kind contact and sincerely establish lasting cooperation by our continuous effort and input.We sincerely hope to develop and maintain friendly and long-term business relationships with all the customers on the basis of equality and mutual benefit to achieve win-win results!
Q: What kinds of method do you use to put customized logo?Silk screen printingLaser engravingEtchingStampingEmbossing/Debossing and any other mode you want. Q: How to get a sample?For customized sample,please contact us for sample costSample fee will be returned when you order more 500pcs Q: What is sample time and production time?If you place order directly,we can provide you sample/pre-production sample to check qualityExisting sample: any timeCustomized sample: 2-3daysMass Production time: 7-15 days Q: What is the shipping way?We can send your shipment by Sea/Air/Door to door courier,depends on the shipmentsize we can give you suggestionsAs we are sending shipments frequently by courier,we are gtting good discount from thecarrier,and we will transfer the benefit to you Q: What is your term of payment ?We are quite flexible about payment,we accept T/T,Paypal,Western Union,Trade Assurance,etc.
Contact us
Kevin Chen - Sales Manager | Guangzhou Lonestar Technology Co.,Ltd Add: 301,A building, No.27,DaGang West Street,ShiJing Twon,BaiYun District, Guangzhou city, China Tel: +86-20-29866695 Mobile: +86- Skype: kevins20122 Website: www.lonestar.en.alibaba.com


text:
Marilyn Monroe - sitting - Unknown
Type: Fine-Art Print
Paper Size:26" x 34"
You are viewing a museum quality fine-art print. The prints we carry are produced using either the lithographic or serigraphic printing process and are printed on high quality archival acid free paper. Each print is of the highest museum art print reproduction quality and are supplied by the world's leading art publishers and artists. These prints rival any detailed reproduction from their originals and are geared towards the discerning eye of the particular art collector. This print is perfect for any elegant home, office, restaurant or place of business.
This artworks is available for beautiful affordable expert custom framing. Custom framing options are available when listed in item description. Our high quality custom framing is done here in the USA, by our expert framing craftsmen. Please visit our framing page if you are require additional framing options not show with your item listing. (Please note if you are interested in this item unframed, please contact us for pricing.)
CANVAS OPTIONS & Canvas Prints, Canvas Tranfers
Many of our Artworks are available on canvas. See item listing for this option.
Transferring a print onto Canvas is an elegant treatment that transforms the print to look like an original painting. Each Canvas Transfer is custom made, and begins with the meticulous process of transferring the lithographic inks to a high grade artist's canvas. This detailed process preserves and protects the image. The canvas is then stretched and fit onto a custom-cut wooden frame. Our Ready-to-Hang Canvas Transfers are an affordable alternative to an original work of art.
Canvas Durability
Differing from traditional paper art prints, a canvas transfer has a lifespan as long as any original painting or work of art. They can easily be dusted and cleaned with a damp cloth, giving years of use and enjoyment.
( Canvas transfers can also be easily framed should you desire. contact us)


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RA Delegates Adopt NEA Policy Statement on Teacher Evaluation and Accountability
Statement offers sweeping changes to build a profession of teaching focused on high expectations.
July 4, 2011
Tim Walker
On Monday, delegates to the 2011 Representative Assembly voted to approve the National Education Association's policy statement that revamps teacher evaluation and accountability. The development, implementation, and enforcement of high-quality teacher evaluation and accountability are top priorities for NEA and its affiliates.
NEA President Dennis Van Roekel believes the new statement signals a commitment to a new, more prestigious profession of teaching and reflects the first broad endorsement by NEA of the need for evaluation and accountability reform.
"As more states and districts seek to improve teacher evaluation, the risk is that reform is done to teachers rather than with them," said Van Roekel. "This policy statement was written by and for teachers while heeding others' expertise as well. It outlines a system to help teachers improve instruction and meet students' needs. It offers sweeping changes to build a true profession of teaching that is focused on high expectations."
The policy statement is based on a recommendation of a workgroup of NEA leaders convened in the spring by Van Roekel and led by Secretary-Treasurer Becky Pringle. It outlines guidelines for an evaluation and accountability system that focus on enhancing the practice of teachers, instead of identifying teachers for dismissal.
The statement reflects the importance of maintaining high standards, not lowering them and calls for robust evaluations based on multiple indicators. The statement supports state or local affiliates to use standardized tests for evaluating teachers if the standardized tests are of proven high quality and provide meaningful measures of student learning and growth,
The vote to approve came after an afternoon of spirited debate, presided over by Van Roekel and Pringle, over amendments offered by delegates.
"This is what our members want from NEA—and we answered with a fresh vision for the teaching profession grounded in ideas that are realistic, doable, and will ensure that every student has access to a high quality teacher," said Van Roekel.


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Check out my first impressions of the newest kid on the block at Vegas Values: Cosmo Dazzles.
Overall, I like it better than I thought I would. I did find design flaws, like a random elevator in the casino took us to the basement, another took us to valet. The buffet feels like it's miles from anything. You'd swear it was a complete afterthought. Still, I think they did a nice job working with all the challenges. I was impressed by the friendliness of the staff. Those we encountered went above and beyond to assist us. I'd love to see that level of customer service continue. Of course, I'm anxious to dine there. I've long awaited Scarpetta, I gotta see what the fuss is about. I'm interested in Jaleo and China Pablano. Comme Ca sounds good, and I most excited about Greek coming to the strip. Filling that niche is long overdue. After touring the buffet I must check out Wicked Spoon, I'm sure I'll also try Holsteins and others.
I'm interested to see how my impressions change after another look, it's always hard to truly gauge a place on opening night.


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Qataris are eager to help needy Muslims across the globe, and are now focusing much of their attention on Chechnya, where Russians are battling with local Muslim fighters seeking independence for their province.
The examinations and student department requested that the public participate in an aid campaign to supply the suffering Chechens with basic human needs, al-Watan daily reports.
The special event will be held on Monday (January 31st) at the exhibition hall nearby the department facilities. It will be scheduled as follows:
* 0800-0930 - men only
* 0935-1230 - women only
* 1600-2000 - women only
Meanwhile, the Qatari Telecommunication Corporation (Q-Tel) continued to fund charity and volunteer organizations that are working to help needy, sick, poor and disabled people in Islamic countries. As part of this drive, Q-Tel donated QR80,778 to the Shiekh Id Ben Muhammad al-Thani Charitable Society, which is to be earmarked for the Chechen people. (QR3.64=$1).
Q-Tel officials announced they would continue to collect donations from their employees for the sake of the Chechens.
© 2000 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)


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Chacin's eight shutout frames sink Giants
Cuddyer launches two-run homer to extend hit streak to 25 games
DENVER -- Rockies No. 1 pitcher Jhoulys Chacin demonstrated in eight scoreless, three-hit innings in a 4-1 victory over the Giants on Friday night that he has captured the elusive confidence and execution that leads to dominance.
To a greater degree than he has shown at any point of his career, Chacin treated this special feeling as if it could be spread to his teammates. Whatever has helped him to a 1.26 ERA in his last 28 2/3 innings should be passed along. Chacin extended his scoreless inning streak to 15 innings, 1/3 of an inning shy of his career best, April 27 to May 8, 2010.
Chacin expressed his appreciation to teammates when they turned a double play to end the second. He shouted and clapped and gave an appreciative fist pump toward DJ LeMahieu after the second baseman made a diving play on a Brandon Belt grounder to end the fourth with two on. He even said he wanted to come back out for the ninth inning, but made it a point to let teammates know he trusted them.
"I really wanted to show everybody we can win, we can do this," Chacin said. "The offense has been struggling a little bit, but I know what we've got. I don't worry about that. I want to pick it up, throw a good game, give the team a chance to win."
Reliever Rex Brothers yielded a ninth-inning leadoff homer to Buster Posey. Brothers saw his scoreless games streak end at 32 and his scoreless innings streak stop at 30 -- a record for a Rockies reliever, surpassing Gabe White's 29 1/3 in 2000. Ubaldo Jimenez holds the scoreless innings streak at 33 in 2010.
"I want to kick the door down ... I'm not going to say [the streak] wasn't cool to do," Brothers said, smiling. "But in hindsight, it was about getting outs and winning that first game of the series."
Chacin picked the right time to be special.
The Rockies also improved to 5-6 against the Giants this season, including 4-1 at Coors Field. The record is significant because the last two seasons they were 5-13 and 4-14 against the Giants, and nowhere near contention in the division.
The Rockies entered on a 2-8 skid, but nonetheless pulled to three games behind the D-backs, who lead a tight National League West. But Friday's triumph in front of 38,428 at Coors Field began a long streak of games against the West going into the All-Star break.
"It's really the time to do it," Chacin said.
Chacin struck out just three, and during the four-game win streak has had just 11 strikeouts. But that's because he is using his sinker for ground balls, and actively seeking those rather than using more pitches to fan hitters.
"When he's got depth to his two-seamer and he's commanding that, he's really tough," said Rockies manager Walt Weiss, who pulled Chacin after 95 pitches under the club's strategy of keeping starters from going to or much over 100 pitches. "He's in a really good place right now."
Chacin, of course, isn't the only one on a roll in purple pinstripes.
Carlos Gonzalez followed LeMahieu's first-inning leadoff single with his 59th RBI on a double off Barry Zito, who fell to 1-5 in his last 12 starts. LeMahieu led off because the Rockies had to scratch Dexter Fowler (right hand) just before first pitch.
Michael Cuddyer extended his club-record hit streak to 25 games with a two-run homer in the third inning off Zito, who gave up 10 hits in 5 1/3 innings.
Cuddyer's hit streak is the longest in the Majors since Jose Reyes, then of the Marlins, hit in 26 straight last July 13 to Aug. 8. Cuddyer also has reached base in a club-record 44 straight games.
Immediately after Cuddyer's homer, his 14th this season and sixth of the streak, catcher Wilin Rosario hit his 13th homer of the year for a 4-0 lead.
"That was a good night all the way around," Cuddyer said.
Cuddyer entered 3-for-17 with two doubles against Zito in his career. Zito called the 2-0 pitch "the big mistake tonight ... that backdoor cutter up in the zone."
Cuddyer isn't missing those pitches.
"I can't really explain, things are just kind of going my way right now," Cuddyer said. "Hopefully, they will continue to, and continue to go the team's way."
Pitching can go a long way toward that.
Saturday afternoon's starter, Jorge De La Rosa, has given up two runs over his last two starts and leads the team with 10 "quality starts" -- six or more innings, three or fewer earned runs. Tyler Chatwood has a sparkling 2.13 ERA in nine starts. Now the Rockies hope veteran Roy Oswalt, after two up-and-down starts, can shake off the rust, and lefty Drew Pomeranz gives the team a lift beginning Sunday, when he comes up from Triple-A Colorado Springs for his first 2013 Rockies start.
Chacin's work Friday could be a blueprint for everyone.
"It's really great to play behind a guy that's rolling ground balls like that -- it keeps everyone on their toes," LeMahieu said.
Chacin's emotion and energy translated to his catcher.
"He gave me a lot of confidence in what I call -- I can pick it up when he feels something, when he wants to throw something," Rosario said. "I feed off him. He's been very good."


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On display at The New Museum until September 30th, is the exhibition Ghosts in the Machine. Curated by Massimiliano Gioni and Gary Carrion-Murayari, the exhibition is described as having been "conceived as an encyclopedic cabinet of wonders: bringing together an array of artworks and non-art objects to create an unsystematic archive of man's attempt to reconcile the organic and the mechanical."1 Of the myriad works presented in the exhibition, there is one humble object that in so many ways embodies the complex history of technical abstraction, and the externalization of that which is inherently human. This object is called the VODER.
Short for Voice Operation DEmonstratoR, the VODER was an instrument or tool that provided its operator the ability to synthesize human speech. It easily predates the first cases of computerized speech synthesis, and represents the distinct end of an era for a particular type of metonymic device, along with the beginning of a whole other era of synthesized speech. The year was 1929. As the story goes, Bell Labs researcher Homer Dudley experienced an epiphanic moment, while laying in a hospital bed.
A pioneering researcher of voice communications technologies, Dudley was working to develop more efficient methods of voice transmission that could make better use of the Bell System's bandwidth. His eureka moment was the realization that the human mechanisms of speech (the vocal cords, mouth, teeth, tongue and lips), resembled the mechanics of radio transmission2: the vocal chords create high-frequency vibrations that serve essentially as a carrier wave to the data encoded by the articulations of the mouth. He would go on to spearhead the development of technology that enabled the invention of a device called the Vocoder3. By breaking speech down into ten low frequency bands, the Vocoder was able to send transmissions requiring far less bandwidth than the full spectral information produced by the telephone. By the mid-30s the team at Bell Labs had developed these technologies to successful ends, but would not see implementation outside of the lab for another decade or so.
It was this initial work on the Vocoder that led Dudley down a winding path toward the VODER. The key distinction between the Vocoder and VODER is that while the Vocoder was a tool through which to process speech, the VODER was a instrument with which one could synthesize speech. The Vocoder required its operator to only turn a few knobs, and speak into a microphone. The VODER was an instrument in a wholly other sense, providing fourteen keys, a bar controlled by the operator's wrist, and a foot pedal. The Voder was not spoken to – it was performed, or played. The operator's speech impulses would bypass their destination of the vocal cords and mouth, instead manifesting themselves through their hands, wrist and foot, and finally through the manipulation of the VODER's controls. Complex combinations of keys would produce the requisite components of speech that a given letter, word, and sentence is composed of. The foot pedal controlled pitch, providing the essential subtle variations of intonation. The resultant sounds approached that of modern speech synthesis. Computers would not meet the expressive abilities of the VODER for another twenty years.


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6in USB 2.0 Cable - USB A Female to USB Motherboard 4 Pin Header F/F
Connect internal USB devices directly to the motherboard header connection
Product ID: USBMBADAPT
- USB A Female to USB Motherboard Header Female
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The USBMBADAPT USB A to USB Motherboard Header Adapter features a 4-pin USB header (female) connection, as well as a regular USB A (female) port, allowing you to connect internal USB devices directly to the motherboard header connection.
The adapter cable offers a cost-effective solution for connecting multi-function front panels, or any device that relies on using an internal USB port. Constructed of high quality materials and expertly constructed for durable performance, the USBMBADAPT adapter is backed by StarTech.com's Lifetime Warranty.
The StarTech.com Advantage
- Easily convert an internal Motherboard Header Port to a regular USB A female port
- Easy to use and install
- Backed by StarTech.com lifetime warranty
Product Numbers
Tech Data
Ingram Micro USA
UPC Code
Technical Specifications
|Warranty Information
|Connector A
|1 - IDC (4 pin, Motherboard Header) Female
|Connector B
|1 - USB Type-A (4 pin) USB 2.0 Female
|Physical Characteristics
|Cable Length
|6 in [152.4 mm]
|Product Height
|Product Length
|6 in [152.4 mm]
|Product Width
|Weight of Product
|0.5 oz [13 g]
|Packaging Information
|Package Height
|0.4 in [11 mm]
|Package Length
|4.9 in [12.5 cm]
|Package Width
|3.5 in [90 mm]
|Shipping (Package) Weight
|0.5 oz [15 g]
|What's in the Box
|Included in Package
|1 - 6in USB 2.0 Cable - USB A Female to USB Motherboard 4 Pin Header F/F
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- If product has an exposed circuit board, do not touch the product under power.
- If Class 1 Laser Product. Laser radiation is present when the system is open.
- Wiring terminations should not be made with the product and/or electric lines under power.
- Product installation and/or mounting should be completed by a certified professional as per the local safety and building code guidelines.
- Cables (including power and charging cables) should be placed and routed to avoid creating electric, tripping or safety hazards.
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6in USB 2.0 Cable - USB A Female to USB Motherboard 4 Pin Header F/F
Product ID: USBMBADAPT


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Item Description
Letter, Sister M. [Martha] L. Davis to Brother and Sister [Samuel and Florella Adair]
Author: Davis, Martha Lucretia Brown
Date: June 8, 1856
Martha provided information on the death of Father Brown. She also wrote that they had heard of the conflict at Osawatomie and that "John and two of his sons" had been arrested. She expressed anxiety for their safety.
Location of Original: KSHS Call Number: Samuel and Florella Adair Collection, #161, Box 4, Folder 1
Item Number: 100337 Number of images: 4
Keywords: Adair, Florella Brown; Adair, Samuel Lyle; Brown, John, 1800-1859; Davis, Martha Lucretia Brown; Lykins County, Kansas Territory (see also Miami County, Kansas); Miami County, Kansas (see also Lykins County, Kansas Territory); Osawatomie, Kansas Territory
pg. 1
pg. 2
pg. 3
pg. 4


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Currently 2.83/512345 Rating: 2.8/5 (Total votes: 29)
Rating: 2.8/5 (Total votes: 29)
Lookout - Protect your mobile phone and download apps without worry.
Anti-Virus + Firewall:
· Run a virus scan on your system to quickly find malicious files. Block scans and exploit attempts.
Data Backup:
· Backup and access your data: pictures, contacts, SMS, music files, videos, and more from any web browser and restore them to a your device without any hassles.
Missing Device:
· Locate your device remotely from any web browser. Set off a siren to help you find a lost device. If all else fails, delete your data remotely.
What's New in This Release:
· Updated code and UI references from mylookout.com to the official, new Lookout website, lookout.com.
· Added the ability to scan dialer links for malicious MMI codes that could delete your data or reset your phone.
· Bug fixes
What's New in 6.7:
· Bug fixes
· Minor user experience improvements
What's New in 6.1:
· New permission: Optional upgrade to Premium can be done using your Android Market account (limited rollout to some users)
· Safe Browsing bug fixes
· Improved graphics
What's New in 6.0.1:
· New Premium Feature: Safe Browsing to block phishing and malware sites
· Safe Browsing analyzes every site you visit in real-time to protect you against the latest online threats
· Click on any link: from Facebook, email, text messages and more while staying safe
What's New in 5.5.3:
· Fixed force close after successfully removing certain malware
· Decreased size of download
What's New in 5.4:
· Improved wipe
» show more


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- Length: 61:49 minutes (14.15 MB)
- Format: MP3 Mono 22kHz 32Kbps (CBR)
Mark Ahlness joined us to talk about his Earth Groceries Bag Project. Students decorate paper grocery bags to be used in grocery stores with messages about the Earth. To remind shoppers to take care of our environment and Earth. This project is now celebrating it's 15th year with hundreds and thousands of participating students all over the world. Mark talked about the history and development of the project and plans for future years.You'll find tons of resources to get you started at the project website at http://earthdaybags.org Click on attachment to view Chat Log


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Mike Tannenbaum says hindsight is 20/20, especially when it comes to Mark Sanchez's contract extension.
"I don't think I'd sign a quarterback to an extension knowing that he'd have 26 turnovers," Tannenbaum said with a smile Thursday during his media tour, which began on NFL Network's "NFL AM." "That may be one of the reasons I'm sitting here with you guys."
Tannenbaum, who re-signed Sanchez to a five-year, $58.25-million deal last March, failed to mention that Sanchez had the same number of interceptions (18) and fumbles lost (eight) in 2011 as he did in 2012.
Instead, Tannenbaum explained that his approach always has been to draft a solid "core" of players (i.e., D'Brickashaw Ferguson, Darrelle Revis, Nick Mangold) and later sign them to extensions "when it makes sense for both sides." But the Jets, who are $23.1 million over the 2013 salary cap, are handcuffed to Sanchez because of that hefty extension. Now it's up to new general manager John Idzik to figure out how to add depth to a mediocre offense while on a budget.
"Obviously, he didn't play as well this year, we didn't coach as well this year, we didn't get him as good players this year," Tannenbaum said. "But if we're sitting here a year or two from now, I still think Mark's going to be a good, credible quarterback in the NFL."
So will Sanchez be the Jets' starter in 2013?
"I think Mark's going to be there,'' Tannenbaum said. "Obviously, that's somebody else's decision now. But I wouldn't be surprised if they brought other people in as well.''
Tannenbaum also was complimentary toward his former backup quarterback, Tim Tebow.
Although the Jets touted Tebow as an explosive playmaker who would thrive in the Tony Sparano-led Wildcat, Tebow averaged fewer than seven offensive snaps a game and threw only eight passes. But with Jacksonville no longer a landing spot for Tebow, the Jets could have difficulty trading him. Nevertheless, Tannenbaum doesn't believe Tebow's career is over.
"This is a guy that was successful in high school, won championships in college," Tannenbaum said of Tebow, who was rendered a nonfactor during what likely was his only season with the Jets. "He's the type of person, he's either going to be successful as a pro quarterback or die trying.
"Obviously, there are some skills he has to work on; he has to be a more consistent thrower from the pocket -- we all know that. The accuracy. But with that, there are things he brings to the table. And we'll see how the offseason unfolds.
"He brings a lot to your team, and we felt . . . by getting him on the field, he would be able to make plays. Obviously, it didn't work out, and I wish Tim well."


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Mental Health Courts from A to Z
CSG Justice Center Training Curriculum Blends Online Learning, Live Activities
Story by Jacqueline Cheney
Story appears in the 2013 Jan./Feb. issue of Capitol Ideas
Research shows people with mental illnesses and co-occurring substance abuse issues enter local jails three to six times more often than the general population.
That creates a challenge for the nation's criminal courts.
"The cycling of individuals with mental illnesses through our criminal justice system is a critical issue with implications for public safety, health and expenditures, not to mention the lives of millions across the country," said Ruby Qazilbash, associate deputy director of the Bureau of Justice Assistance at the U.S. Department of Justice.
The use of mental health courts, which combine mental health and, often, substance use treatment with court supervision, is a popular approach to address this issue. Some 300 jurisdictions have launched new programs since 2000. Nearly every state has a mental health court.
Developing a Mental Health Court
The growing reliance on these specialty courts has created a need for an accessible training resource. Recognizing that need, the Bureau of Justice Assistance commissioned The Council of State Governments Justice Center to build on its previous work and develop a curriculum on mental health courts.
"By partnering with the CSG Justice Center on this project, we hope to provide state leaders with an affordable, accessible training option that combines the best of available research and practice in this area in a format that is flexible to the needs of diverse jurisdictions," said Qazilbash.
The result of that partnership is a training curriculum called Developing a Mental Health Court. The curriculum features self-paced online presentations and quizzes, group activities and additional resources that translate the experience of experts and practitioners into engaging learning materials.
The free curriculum also features multimedia content that includes interviews with a range of experts, as well as a multi-part video case study following a real mental health court team through common situations. The project was guided by a steering committee of national organizations and practitioners from mental health courts around the country.
While the curriculum is a comprehensive resource on starting a mental health court, it also can be adapted for new team members or as a tune-up for existing programs. Introductory lessons on criminal justice and behavioral health are useful for any collaboration between these disciplines, with content on assessment of criminogenic needs—that is characteristics or circumstances research shows are associated with criminal behavior—and mental health, as well as introductions to these systems.
"This curriculum provides the important fundamentals, and it links us to existing research and innovative programming," said Steven Canterbury, administrative director of West Virginia's Administrative Office of the Courts and a CSG Justice Center board member. "It also offers flexibility to tailor the content based on our own state rules and local resources."
The curriculum begins with material on the mental health court model and how to consider whether a mental health court is appropriate for a given community.
"We aimed to give policymakers the tools to make decisions informed by research and practice, whether it is the decision to start a mental health court, develop another program, or start meeting regularly and improve information sharing," said Hallie Fader-Towe, director of the CSG Justice Center's Courts Program.
The Justice Center also worked with the Center for Social Innovation on the training strategy.
"Their expertise in adult education and blended learning helped us develop an approach that shares national expertise through online presentations, while using live activities to apply the concepts locally," said Fader-Towe.
At a time when budget constraints affect every branch of government, the curriculum provides a great value to state and local jurisdictions.
"We're always looking for cost-effective ways to bring national expertise to West Virginia, and this free curriculum provides a means to do so without paying for dozens of flights and conferences," said Canterbury.
Piloting the Curriculum
State-level coordinators in Colorado and Delaware piloted the curriculum, as did local teams in Iowa and Washington. These pilot sites included urban, rural and suburban jurisdictions with varying experience with problem-solving courts and criminal justice/mental health collaboration.
With the current economic climate limiting opportunities for face-to-face training, Colorado was eager to use the curriculum, State Problem-Solving Court Coordinator Brenidy Rice said. Rice considers the curriculum's blend of online and live components "the best way to handle the budget limitations, as well as people's busy schedules." The varied formats—including audio, video and graphics—"can meet the needs of several types of learners," she said.
Rice piloted the curriculum in five jurisdictions throughout Colorado, tailoring it to each team.
"Each was unique in its needs and stage in the planning process," said Rice.
One team in the early stages of starting a program used the curriculum to complete its policies and procedures.
Another team that was already maintaining a specialized probation caseload for individuals with mental illnesses was not sure how its jurisdiction could benefit from a problem-solving court.
Taking the curriculum's suggestion, the team reviewed local data to determine if additional programs would be beneficial. After the data revealed that individuals with mental illnesses were still spending more time in jail and faring worse on probation than others, the team decided to establish a mental health court.
"Mental health courts are one of the fastest-growing types of problem-solving courts in the state right now, but there isn't as much information available on these programs as there is on drug courts, which have been around for twice as long," Rice said. "Developing a Mental Health Court is a great resource in helping us fill that need."
Creating the Curriculum
Developing a Mental Health Court includes input from experts involved in programs in more than 20 states.
The steering committee included representation from the National Center for State Courts, the National Judicial College, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's GAINS Center, the Center for Court Innovation, the American Probation and Parole Association, the Association of Prosecuting Attorneys, the Justice Management Institute, the National Drug Court Institute, and the National Legal Aid & Defender Association. Committee members came from California, Illinois, New York and Ohio.
Problem-solving court coordinators and judicial educators from Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, New York, Utah, Virginia and West Virginia contributed to the curriculum's trainers' materials.
Get the Curriculum
Developing a Mental Health Court: An Interdisciplinary Curriculum is available, free of charge, at learning.csgjusticecenter.org.


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After the Fire - Flooding Risk Information
The recent Waldo Canyon Fire has significantly changed the landscape, presenting risk of debris flow and flooding. Hillsides once protected by vegetation have been compromised and precipitation could have significant impacts on the landscape. Residents both in the burned area and those downstream of those areas should be prepared for potential flooding and are strongly urged to purchase flood insurance.
Download the Flood Preparedness Brochure
View Flash Flood Preparedness Meeting Video - June 4, 2013
DURING a Flood Event
Receive Weather Alerts
Register for Weather Alerts to be sent to your cell phone
A few Internet links for information regarding weather radios and smart phone apps are listed below. However, please note that there are many other online vendors available through internet search "weather radios":
BEFORE a Flood
Areas of heightened concern:To see if your home or neighborhood is in a flood risk area, view the
Flood Mitigation Efforts & Potential Assistance for Landowners
Useful Links for Flood Information


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MedWOW / used medical equipment / Cardiology Equipment / Ultrasound, Cardiac
New & Used Ultrasound, Cardiac
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Device: Ultrasound, Veterinary
Manufacturer: ATL
Model: Apogee CX
Manufacturer: ATL
Model: Apogee CX
Location: United States, California
The model & manufacturer of the marked items have changed due to an acquisition between companies, and are also known as:
|Current Manufacturer / Model Name
|Alternative Manufacturer / Model Name
|Acuson / Sequoia 512
|Siemens / ACUSON Sequoia 512
|Interspec / Apogee CX
|ATL / Apogee CX
Ultrasound, Cardiac may also be referred to as :Ultrasonic Unit, Diagnostic | US Scanner Cardiac | Ultrasonic Scanner | Ultrasonic Laminagraph | Ultrasonic Imaging Unit | Ultrasonic Analyzer | Spectrum Analyzer, Doppler | Scanner, Ultrasonic, Other | Scanner, Ultrasonic, Compound B | Scanner, Ultrasonic | Flow-Mapping Doppler | Duplex Scanner | Cardiac Echo | Ultrasound Scanner | Doppler Spectrum Analyzer | Doppler Flow Mapping System | Cardiac US Doppler | Cardiac Ultrasonic Scanning System
Tips for buying Ultrasound, Cardiac
- A cardiac ultrasound unit can call on the full range of a scanner's Doppler capabilities. Using echocardiography, flow and turbulence can be examined throughout the heart and great vessels.
- For timing reference, electrocardiography is incorporated and some cardiac ultrasound scanners are able to perform stress echocardiography studies.
- This area of study involves examining the structure and function of the heart and great vessels, including imaging the cardiac valves, heart chambers, wall motion, and thickness.
- Cardiac ultrasound packages calculate quantitative 2-D and Doppler values to aid diagnosis.
- If there is a need to transport a system from the Cardiology Department to the bedside, Intensive Care Unit, coronary care unit, catheterization lab, or even to an off-site clinic, then a portable cardiac ultrasound scanner system could be used.
- A full-featured cardiac ultrasound system, typically used in cardiology departments or private cardiology clinics, is needed for a comprehensive cardiac study.
Read more valuable tips on the Medical Equipment Buying Guide by MedWOW >>


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CLARINS - Delicious Self Tanning Cream For Face & Body 150ml/5.3oz
The creamy texture glides onto skin
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Enriched with Aloe Vera for hydrating & soothing benefits
Infused with Cocoa Butter to prevent premature skin aging
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text:
Results for Strength & Conditioning and Chicken
LA Fitness
in Gyms, Weight Loss, Sports, Strength & Conditioning
LA Fitnees offers access to over 690+ fitness clubs in both the U.S. & Canada.
3838 Richmond Avenue
River Oaks, Houston, Texas 77027
United States
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in American, Sides, Breakfast, Catering, Chicken, Sandwiches, Soups, Beverages, Desserts & Shakes
Since 1964 Chic-fil-A has been the home of the original chicken sandwich with two pickles on a toasted bun. Throw a party that everyone will remember with Chic-fil-A!
2715 Southwest Frwy
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text:
Key Benefits
- Easy to use daily steam activated charcoal supplement naturally sourced from coconut shells.
- Activated charcoal contributes to reducing excessive flatulence after eating.
- Can be used for detox support due to it's ability to absorb and remove toxins.
- Can absorb thousands of times its own weight.
- Helps to maintain healthy looking skin.
- Supports normal healthy digestive function.
- Manufactured in the UK to GMP standard.
- Troo Health activated charcoal capsules are suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Take 2-4 activated charcoal capsules daily with plenty of water.
Activated Charcoal 300mg (from coconut shells)
Other Ingredients: HPMC Capsule Shell, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Magnesium Stearate
Always consult your GP before taking nutritional supplements if you are taking medication or are under medical supervision.
If pregnant or lactating please consult your doctor before using food supplements.
Store in a cool dry place out of reach of children.
You should not take supplements as a substitute for a varied balanced diet.
Side effects from this supplement are rare but please discontinue and contact your GP immediately in the event of an adverse reaction.
Do not exceed the stated dose unless under medical supervision.
Do not use activated charcoal if you have any kind of intestinal obstruction.
Do not use activated charcoal if you have a condition that slows the passage of food through your intestine (reduced peristalsis).
Troo Health Care Activated Charcoal Capsules are manufactured in the UK to GMP code of practice and ISO 9001 quality assurance certification.
These manufacturing procedures ensure that the basic manufacturing practices and prerequisites necessary for product quality and safety are being followed. This goes above and beyond what is required so that we can guarantee you receive consistently high quality products.
Suitable for vegetarians and vegans.


text:
sponsored by
CHRIS COYNE, agent - State Farm Insurance
Society of Logan County offers holiday cookie trays
Send a link to a friend
[November 16, 2012]
Planning holiday parties or
looking for gifts to give special friends or relatives? Let the Humane
Society of Logan County do your holiday baking. HSLC is once again taking
orders for holiday cookie trays. Each tray will contain three dozen fancy
holiday cookies with a variety of at least 12 different kinds of cookies.
To place your orders, call Adrienne at
217-732-1979. The deadline for placing orders is Dec. 1.
Orders can be picked up on Dec. 8
at Graue Inc., 1905 N. Kickapoo St., from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
All proceeds benefit the Humane
Society of Logan County.
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text:
Oakwell Hall Country Park
This beautiful Elizabethan manor house has delighted visitors for centuries. Visiting in the 19th Century, Charlotte Brontë featured it as 'Fieldhead' - the home of the heroine in 'Shirley'. Built in 1583, the hall is now set out as it would have been in tht 1690s, when it was the home of the Batt family. A mixture of authentic and reproduction furnishings provide a real insight into late 17th century life.
The Batts were members of the gentry and staunch Royalists. Visitors today can easily imagine themselves in post Civil War England when faced with the imposing Great Hall with its gallery, the elegant Painted Chamber and the beautifully panelled parlour: "this parlour was lined with oak; fine, dark, glossy panels compassed the walls. Very handsome, reader, these shining brown panels are, very mellow in colouring and tasteful in effect."
Set in beautiful countryside where you can stroll around the delightful period garden or check out the inhabitants of the wildlife access garden. Pause for refreshments in the Oak Tree Café and treat yourself to a present from the well-stocked shop.
Visit often and watch the seasons change in the country park - 100 acres of the original estate for you to explore. As well as waymarked nature trails and numerous picnic areas, there's an accessible playground.
Look out for the events programme. From period candlelight evenings to lively family activities, there's plenty to bring Oakwell to life!
Venue Type:
Museum, Historic house or home, Garden, parklands or rural site
Oakwell Hall Country Park
Park: open 24 hours a day
Oakwell Hall: Saturday & Sunday 12noon to 4pm and school Holidays: Tues to Thurs 12noon to 4pm. Closed Mondays & Fridays.
Visitor Centre: Open Wednesdays to Sundays 10am - 4pm (and Tuesdays in the Kirklees school holidays).
Admission to Oakwell Hall
Adult: £3.50
Child: £1
Family: £8
- Museums Association
Additional info
We regret that all parts of our museum sites are not yet fully accessible. Fire regulations mean that there are also restrictions on the use of prams and pushchairs indoors. Please contact the museum for further details and any other access information that will help you to plan your visit.
Collection details
Natural Sciences, Costume and Textiles, Decorative and Applied Art, Fine Art, Personalities, Social History
Young Rangers
If you are between aged 8-14 years and want to try something a bit challenging, while helping the Oakwell Hall Country Park grounds and wildlife at the same time, this could be for you. Join Park Rangers to carry out practical conservation work while you learn new skills and make new friends. Tools and training are provided.
How to obtain
Advance booking is essential and parents or carers must sign a consent form. Contact Patrick Crowley, Ranger on email@example.com or 01924 326240 for more details.
Nature Club
Discover our wildlife-rich country park with a programme of activities aimed at children 12 years and under. All our Nature Club events are free.
How to obtain
Oakwell Hall Country Park's Nature Club is free but does ask for a voluntary donation on the day to cover running costs. Booking is essential. Contact Eric Brown on 01924 326240.
Oakwell Hall Country Park
Oakwell Hall and Country Park
Nova Lane
West Yorkshire
- About
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text: Community event - Belfast Free event for you & your dog! Event time: 11:00am - 3:00pm, 23 October Share Key details Date: Wednesday 23rd October Time: 11am to 3pm Location: Enler Centre36A Church RoadBelfastBT16 2RY Dogs Trust's community event team will be in your area offering: FREE microchipping & advice how to update your details(microchipping is a legal requirement as of April 2016) FREE resources covering training, diet, neutering & care No appointment is required. We operate on a drop-in basis so be sure to come along with your dog and say hello, but please keep your dog on a lead when attending our Community Events. All breeds of dogs are welcome at our Community Events, whether a pup or an adult, however Dogs Trust will not chip active hunting hounds or litters of puppies. We ask that puppies under 6 months old are fully vaccinated and proof of vaccinations are brought along to the event. If your puppy has recently been vaccinated, they must be carried for the 10 days following their final vaccination. Dogs over 6 months old do not require proof of vaccination. Let us know you are coming on our Facebook event.


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Funny thing about sleepers: as soon as they're recognized by even a small group, they can't be sleepers anymore. It never fails. After scratching and clawing to get someone, anyone, to buy into my sleeper theories about a player, I'm always regretful for having done so the second I prove to be successful. Like when I spent all that time telling everyone how awesome Lupe Fiasco was after 'Food and Liquor' and how out of touch they were if they disagreed. Then 'The Cool' came out and suddenly everyone liked Fiasco* and I was upset that I failed to trademark my status as Lupe Super Fan No. 1. It's like paying your pension and dying before you can collect on it (it's a simile within a simile! Get excited!). Had you known that was going to happen, you would have just bought a damn boat with the money you squirreled away. Then again, had you done that, you almost certainly would have led a happier life, lived to be 103 and died a pensionless pauper. This would be the equivalent to everyone taunting me for liking Lupe Fiasco after they heard 'Lazers' and I, again, wish I'd kept my mouth shut for entirely different reasons. What does any of that have to do with Toney Douglas and his outlook for the 2011 fantasy basketball season? I'm about to tell you (and then immediately wish I hadn't).
Here are some of the things you probably didn't notice about Toney Douglas in 2010: He averaged more threes-per-game last year for the Knicks than anyone but 'Melo and Chauncey. Besides New York's two starting PGs (Felton and Billups), Douglas averaged and totaled more dimes than any other Knick on the team. Only Raymond Felton averaged more steals than Douglas. Of the 11 Knicks who appeared on the floor for more than 600 minutes last season, Douglas was only ranked sixth in USG%. All that and he only averaged the eighth-most minutes per game of anyone on the Knicks roster in 2010. So what's it all mean? It means the guy averaged five more minutes a game in 2010 than in 2009 and improved his game slightly. Entering his third season at the age of 25 on a team weak at both guard positions and known for running small rotations on a high possessions-per-game offense suggests his 11/3/3, with 3 stls+3ptm per game from 2010 won't be his ceiling. It also suggests if he improves his FG% a little and sees something closer to 25-27 minutes per game like I suspect he will, owners will get something like 14/3/4, with 3 stls+3ptm per game in 2011. And all that suggests that no matter what he do, no matter what he into, no matter where he be when he look outside his window; brown grass or green grass, picket fence or barbed wire, he'll never let 'em put him down, he'll just raise him arms higher. Raise 'em 'til his arms tire, let 'em know he's there; that Toney's strugglin', survivin', that he's gonna persevere. Or whatever.
* It feels incorrect to refer to Lupe Fiasco by just his last name. Lupe seems fine, but not Fiasco. Ugh. What a mess. Or ordeal. Or … I dunno. I Can't think of any more appropriate adjectives.


text:
Lembas (journal)
Lembas is the title of the journal of the Dutch Tolkien Society (Tolkien Genootschap Unquendor). Lembas is released five times a year. Beyond Bree usually has a summary of the contents in English.
[edit] Issues of Lembas Extra
Listing of Lembas Extra (also known as Lembas-extra), the annual journal of Lembas.
- 1985: (no subtitle, three articles in English, two in Dutch)
- 1986: (no subtitle, one Dutch article in an otherwise English issue)
- 1987: Tolkien and the Spirit of the Age, Proceedings of Unquendor's First Lustrum Conference 1986 (completely in English, this was officially not part of the Lembas Extra series, in practice however it can be regarded as Lembas Extra 1987 in all but name)
- 1988: Motieven in Midden-aarde [Motifs in Middle-earth] (Dutch only)
- 1990: Elrond's Holy Round Table
- 1991: (no subtitle, actually the proceedings of Unquendor's second Lustrum Conference 1991)
- 1992: (no subtitle, one article in Dutch)
- 1993/94: (no subtitle)
- 1995: (no subtitle)
- 1996: (no subtitle)
- 1998: Proceedings of Unquendor's Third Lustrum Conference 1996
- 2001: A Tolkien Odyssey, Proceedings of Unquendor's Fourth Lustrum Conference 2001
- 2002: (no subtitle, one English article in an otherwise completely Dutch issue)
- 2004: (no subtitle)
- 2008: Proceedings of the 5th Unquendor Lustrum, Baarlo 9 - 11 June, 2006
- 2009: Tolkien in Poetry and Song
- 2011: Lembas Extra 2011: Proceedings of the 6th Tolkien Genootschap Unquendor's Lustrum, Baarlo, May 20-22, 2011
- 2012: Lembas Extra 2012
- 2012: Lembas Extra 2015: Unexplored Aspects of Tolkien and Arda


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HPP - High pressure preservation of foods
The high pressure processing of food products (HPP - High Pressure Preservation) reduces or even eliminates unwanted microorganisms in foods. This product-preserving process can extend the shelf life of foods without the use of additives. At the same time, high pressure preservation increases food safety.
Consumers benefit from this process, since both fresh and processed foods, as well as high-quality ready-to-eat meals without additives, can be stored and consumed over a longer period.


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Britain will lead the fightback against antibiotic-resistant superbugs threatening to send medicine "back into the dark ages", David Cameron has said.
The Prime Minister said resistance to antibiotics was a "very real and worrying threat" and could lead to a future in which currently treatable injuries and ailments could prove fatal.
As part of the effort to address the issue an international group of experts will aim to stimulate the development of a "new generation of antibiotics", The Times reported.
Home violence convictions rise
A record three in four prosecutions for domestic violence resulted in a conviction last year, new figures reveal.
The UK's most senior prosecutor will today disclose that defendants admitted offences or were found guilty in 74.6% of cases brought for attacks and abuse in the home in 2013/14.
The figure, which will be announced by Director of Public Prosecutions Alison Saunders, is the highest conviction rate for domestic violence in England and Wales recorded by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
BBC rejects Harris enquiry calls
The BBC has dismissed calls for an inquiry following the conviction of veteran entertainer Rolf Harris for sex crimes, saying its review prompted by the Jimmy Savile scandal will be sufficient.
The 84-year-old's reputation was left in tatters after he was found guilty of 12 charges involving four women, most while they were under age.
Dozens more alleged victims came forward during his trial, and police have said they will look at fresh allegations that were not part of the trial.
Warning over social care cuts
Deep cuts in spending on social care are being implemented in spite of "extreme" public concern over recent scandals in care homes, a senior figure has warned.
David Pearson, president of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (Adass), said Britain, as one of the richest nations in the world, needed to consider how much it valued the care that it provides for the most vulnerable.
He said local authority social care budgets have been forced to make savings of 26% over the last four years and were facing £266 million of cuts this financial year in spite of growing numbers of elderly and people with complex disabilities.
House prices rise to all-time high
House prices lifted by 11.8% year-on-year across the UK in June to reach another new all-time high of £188,903 typically, Nationwide has reported.
The annual uplift is the biggest jump seen since January 2005 and a 1.0% month-on-month price increase also helped to push average prices to £2,391 above a previous peak in cash terms which had been recorded just one month earlier, in May.
London property values have leapt by 25.8% annually, marking the highest growth rate for the capital since 1987, and they have also broken through the £400,000 mark on average for the first time, the building society said.
Northern Ireland recovery on course
David Cameron has insisted Northern Ireland's economic recovery is well on course ahead of a meeting with Stormont's political leaders in London.
The Prime Minister's positive assessment came a year on from the implementation of a Government-backed stimulus package aimed at cementing political gains made in the post-conflict era.
"It is great news that the long-term economic plan is working for Northern Ireland," he said.
Allies urged to fund Syria aid
European allies must pay far more towards humanitarian help for the victims of the Syrian civil war, MPs said as they warned the UK's disproportionate contribution was unsustainable without poverty-stricken parts of the world losing out.
France, Spain and Italy were singled out by the Commons international development committee as among those who had "manifestly failed to pull their weight" while Britain has already committed £600 million to the crisis, the second biggest contribution after the US.
The United Nations estimates that 10.8 million people are now in need of help as a result of the three years of brutal conflict in the region - with around 2.5 million Syrians registered as refugees in neighbouring Lebanon, Jordan, Turkey, Iraq and Egypt.
Work programme costing millions
Tens of millions of pounds of taxpayers' money is being paid out in bonuses to under-performing contractors responsible for delivering the Government's flagship welfare-to-work scheme, the Whitehall spending watchdog has warned.
The National Audit Office (NAO) said "flaws" in the contracts for the Work Programme drawn up by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) meant they they were obliged to make incentive payments to even the worst performing providers.
The incentive payments were supposed to reward high performance, however the NAO said that the performance measure chosen by the DWP meant that all 40 prime contractors involved in the scheme are expected to qualify for them.
Emin delighted by bed sale
Artist Tracey Emin was in the room to see her controversial creation My Bed shatter the record for one of her artworks at auction when it was sold for £2.54 million.
The 1999 Turner prize nomination, which features an unmade bed and a littered floor including empty vodka bottles, cigarette butts and discarded condoms, quadrupled the previous highest amount paid for a piece by the 50-year-old Margate artist when it was sold at Christie's in central London.
A senior member of the auction house hinted it could end up on public display after being snapped up by an anonymous bidder.
Python's greatest hits delight fans
The remaining members of Monty Python have delighted fans with a nostalgic run through their greatest hits at the first of their comeback gigs.
The cult comedy act - John Cleese, Michael Palin, Eric Idle, Terry Gilliam and Terry Jones - performed together for the first time in decades at London's O2 Arena.
The show, which featured an extended cast of dancers, a full orchestra and special effects, ended with a singalong version of Always Look On The Bright Side of Life.


text:
Tuesday, 19 November 2013 10:50 AM
They found the 55-year-old senator there with multiple stab wounds. Deeds' 24-year-old son, Gus, was also discovered at the home, suffering from a gunshot wound.
Geller said they were still trying to figure out the motive and sequence of events.
"It's a very complex investigation," Geller said. She said police have been able to talk with the senator, but she wouldn't reveal what he said. She also did not say who made the 911 call.
Deeds, a former Bath County prosecutor, was elected to the House of Delegates in 1991 and to the state Senate in 2001. He ran for attorney general in 2005, but lost to current Gov. Bob McDonnell, a Republican. The margin of victory was fewer than 400 votes out of nearly 2 million cast.
Deeds and McDonnell squared off again in 2009 in the race for governor after Deeds defeated Terry McAuliffe and Brian Moran in the Democratic primary, but Deeds lost badly that time.
Gus Deeds is one of the senator's four adult children. He had been enrolled at the College of William and Mary off and on since 2007, but withdrew last month, school spokesman Brian Whitson said. The college did not say why he left.
During Deeds' bid for governor, his son took off a semester to join his father on the campaign trail.
"He needs me and I need him," Deeds said in the fall of 2009, about campaigning with Gus Deeds.
"I've got to go through this campaign process, but that doesn't mean I've got to be completely separated from my family the whole time," he said.
Del. David Toscano, D-Charlottesville, whose district overlaps with Deeds', said that "Sen. Deeds was very close to his son, Gus, and has taken herculean efforts to help him over the years. Our thoughts and prayers are with Creigh and the family at this difficult time."
McDonnell said the news was "utterly heartbreaking."
"Creigh Deeds is an exceptional and committed public servant who has always done what he believes is best for Virginia and who gives his all to public service," McDonnell said.
McAuliffe, now governor-elect, called it a sad day for Virginia.
"We join people across the commonwealth and country in wishing him a full recovery," he said.
Deeds and his ex-wife, Pam, divorced shortly after the 2009 campaign. Deeds remarried last year.
Deeds' reputation among colleagues has been as a thoughtful legislator. On social issues, he is generally to the right of party liberals, supporting abortion rights but opposing gay marriage and gun-control measures. He wrote a constitutional amendment guaranteeing Virginians' right to hunt and fish.
He proved to be a reserved campaigner in 2009, described as shy by his fellow lawmakers.
"I don't like fundraising. I don't like being away from home all the time," he said during the campaign. "I enjoy the service. I enjoy the work that politics allows you to do. I don't know that I really enjoy the process that much."
Deeds spent most of his childhood in Bath County, where his family settled in the 1740s. The rural county is known for the high-end Homestead resort, but Deeds grew up on the other side of the mountain.
"I didn't grow up on the end of the county where you learn to ski and play golf as a child," he said. Deeds lived on a farm after his parents divorced when he was about 7.
His grandfather was the Democratic Party chairman in Bath County during the Great Depression.
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text:
Welcoming guests to a Baltimore hotel this holiday season will be a Sandy refugee — a tall, graceful Christmas tree that escaped the massive storm's high winds and unexpected snow.
The 22-foot-high Douglas fir arrived at the Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Hotel by the Inner Harbor, where several people spent hours decorating it on Friday. The tree escaped damage last month when the fierce storm ravaged a family tree farm in Garrett County. Thousands of other trees were lost there, according to the longtime owners.
Sandy plopped more than two feet of soggy snow on Garrett County, and Pinetum Christmas Trees was one of the hardest hit. The farm caters to the niche market for sheared trees between 16 and 40 feet tall — trees that are trucked to corporate lobbies, malls and other customers with large spaces to fill for the holidays.
Regular-size trees weathered Sandy much better, and growers report a solid supply and good variety of firs, pines and spruces. Other Christmas tree growers from Western Maryland across the state reported minor — if any — damage to their seasonal evergreen crop from Hurricane Sandy, the storm classified as a post-tropical cyclone by the time it hit the East Coast.
But at Pinetum, trees were snapped in half, toppled, crushed and mangled. Some had sections of limbs ripped out. Owners Marshall and Cindy Stacy said they had to cancel 70 percent of this year's tree orders, returning about $35,000 to customers at what should be their flush time of year.
"If you'd paid $4,000 for a tree, and you got half a tree and half a truckload of limbs with a note saying, 'Some assembly required,' you wouldn't think it was a joke," Marshall Stacy said.
The couple, whose tree farm is on their 370-acre property in the Appalachian Mountains, is devastated. They bought the farm in 1970 and have lived there since 1976. "This is our heart and soul," Cindy Stacy said.
She described the scene when they first surveyed the damage: "We came around the corner of one of our farms, and it was 'Oh, my God, that's the Douglas fir field,' and it was just hammered."
Garrett County often sees winter storms that dump several feet of snow on the mountains, to the joy of skiers. But Sandy was an oddity, meteorologists said. It wasn't just the 18 to 30 inches of snow in autumn; it was also was the gale-force winds that sent thick, water-laden air whipping through the mountains.
"The snow was uncharacteristically heavy and wet," said National Weather Service meteorologist Brad Rehak.
The combination not only caused roofs to collapse but trees of all kinds to snap; many couldn't carry the extra weight of snow that clung to fading foliage that normally drops later in the fall, he said.
Marshall Stacy said the overall loss to Pinetum may top $200,000. That's because the trees take a generation to reach such heights — growing roughly a foot a year — and require care all year long. In addition, the couple must pay cleanup costs to remove and dispose of the ruined trees.
Clients that include companies that supply trees to malls and office parks are among the Pinetum customers who had to look elsewhere. Some growers in Maryland produce a few large trees, but not the in the volume and variety that Pinetum does.
Harbor Court was the only Baltimore-area business to order a tree from Pinetum this year, the owners said. And hotel officials said they consider themselves fortunate to be among the few Pinetum customers whose order wasn't canceled.
Sam Ackerman, the hotel's director of engineering, ran the eight-man job of winching the tree into place last week, his shouts of direction slightly muffled by the sound of a cherry picker's diesel engine.
The tree had been rolled into the hotel's courtyard from Light Street on a pair of dollies. It lay trussed up like a turkey on the ground, and the plan was to drag it upright using a rope tied to the basket of the cherry picker.
The first attempt went awry — the picker was at the wrong height to get enough leverage — but a second fared better, and the tree began gracefully swinging up and into place. As the tree rose higher, it lurched perilously to one side, but the six men standing around the base steadied it and slotted it into position.
"Hold it right there," Ackerman ordered.
Dale Klietz, the owner of J. J. Cummings Floral, turned up to watch the finishing touches. He had the job of decorating the tree Friday with 600 lights and hundreds of ornaments, which he described as a full day's work for four people.
Wilma Muir, president of the Maryland Christmas Tree Association, assures that the supply of Christmas trees in the Baltimore area, especially those of average size, remains abundant despite the weather brought by Sandy.
"Trees of a 6- to 8-foot size, that most people buy for their homes, fare well. They are more flexible," she said.
Muir, co-owner of Deer Creek Valley Tree Farm in Street, advises that people buying live trees call ahead to make sure the grower is open and has the type of tree they want. Most tree farms officially opened Friday.
Friendship Trees, at the southern end of Anne Arundel County, took its hit early in the year, said Bruce Nuckols, who is among growers who lost newly planted seedlings in the dry spring.
Other Western Maryland tree farms in Garrett County sustained far less damage than Pinetum.
"Just some limbs broke," said Taylor M. Sines Jr., of Woodlake Tree Farm in Oakland, describing minimal damage from the weight of snow on his trees in the 9- to 13-foot range.
The limbs that broke were mostly lower ones, and those trees are sellable. "It's just a shorter tree," he said.
Josh Hite, a worker at Pleasant Valley Tree Farms, which has Garrett County and Pennsylvania locations, also said a small number of trees between 8 and 12 feet tall saw longer bottom limbs slumped by the heavy snowfall. But he said if the branches are still attached, they may recover.
And Sandy's winds did do some good, he said. The trees usually need to shaken by a machine to eliminate dead needles, but the gusts appear to have taken care of most of that.
Baltimore Sun reporter Ian Duncan contributed to this article.