text:
|Southeast Spotlight
Crimson Bears football team preps for State Championship Game
Published: 10/24/2013 13:30:00
After their semifinal win over the Kenai Cardinals, the Juneau-Douglas Crimson Bears are on their way to the State Medium Schools Championship Football game this Saturday in Anchorage to take on the Soldotna Stars. It's the fifth time in the team's history that they've had a chance to play in a state title game and they've been practicing hard all week, and needless to say, the excitement level is pretty high.
VIDEO: The Bears are on their way to the state medium schools championship football game this Saturday in Anchorage to take on the Soldotna Stars. (Image: Rik Pruett)
That level of excitement was apparent in Head Coach Rich Sjoroos.
"Well you know it's a big time for everybody, everybody in the program, all the way from the younger players, the older players and the coaches and the families and the fans and everybody, it's just a great experience for these kids to go up there and get a chance to play a state title game so our focus is just to kind of embrace that whole moment, make sure that we're dialed in, prepared, offense, defense, special teams and just keep everybody building up to the momentum of Saturday and try not to do too much early, make the most of every practice."
Crimson Bears Quarterback Dorian Isaak spoke of what his focus was for the upcoming game. "Focus is just to prepare for the defense, we need to get our offense going, and really get good drives going on offense, that's going to help us a lot in this game so we need to execute and keep the ball out of their hands."
Part of that focus and preparation is to evaluate the opposing team and develop an effective strategy against them, and they've done just that. Dorian elaborated on that thought.
"They've played against the run a lot, so they're really well coached against it, so we're hoping to get a
good pass attack against them, running will also work we have a great running back, Demetrius Campos and then George Sua, and they're real strong running backs and they can carry the team really well too so we'll probably mix it up. And the weather's going to be good so I think maybe a little more passing than we had last week."
Hopefully all the strategy pays off, but according to Coach Sjoroos, in the long run there's something else that this is really all about.
"Fun ride with these kids, fun ride with the coaches and we made it to the finish line, you know and that's something that not every year you get to do is make it all the way to the end and tomorrow night will be our last practice out here, and for those seniors it'll be there last time ever playing on this field with pads on and it's just a great ride for them to make it to the end and I couldn't be happier for them."
Kickoff time for the championship game is this Saturday at noon and can be seen on GCI cable channel one.
Go Bears!
By: Rik Pruett - email@example.com


text:
Washington (CNN) - It's an open secret that many congressional Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, were not happy with some of the past budget deals brokered by Vice President Joe Biden and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. They groused that they had given too much to Republicans in both the 2011 debt ceiling deal and as well as one last December focusing on the so-called fiscal cliff that pushed off only for a short time across-the-board spending cuts. And some blamed Biden - most notably Reid.
This time around, it's Reid leading the charge for the Democrats. He's made that point very clear, both inside and outside of the White House. As one administration official put it, "Reid is convinced he needs to stand his ground."
And there are lots of reasons for it. First, Reid has made it clear he doesn't want history to repeat itself - and it won't if he's calling the shots. He's got his caucus united behind him this time around. Plus, the action is has really been with House Republicans, a group not enamored with Biden, who served in the Senate for nearly four decades before becoming vice president.
And there's another huge difference this time around: There have been no negotiations, at least not so far. That's the strategy.
This is Reid's show. And while Biden may be at the key meetings - and was spotted chatting with McConnell after one involving congressional leaders last week at the White House which raised some eyebrows - he's not the point man this time around.
"There is a totally different crowd of people and dynamic," one administration official said. "This has been much more focused on the House than the Senate."
And one more thing: McConnell, who is facing a tough re-election race in Kentucky, is not anxious to get anywhere near a deal on these contentious issues - at least not now.
Biden may not be in charge, but he hasn't disappeared: He has canceled several out of town political appearances in the last week so he can be in Washington. Just in case.
So...the only Democratic leader in the Obama administration with a proven track record while on the job of negotiating for compromises has been locked out by Obama and Reid...???
The problem with being the guy who says "I won't negotiate" is that you can't call out the other guy for being a bastard because he "won't negotiate". Being President is not being "King of the United States"....you can't just ignore the will of the 49% of Americans who voted for the other guy. It leads to things like what we are seeing going on right now.
Obama is the greatest "divider-in-chief" in American history...and has done more to disenfranchise the 49% of Americans who didn't vote for him than any other President, ever. He's the President of the Democrats of America...not all Americans, and he's made himself that by his own policies. He "wont' negotiate"....his idea of negotiation is "agree with me or else".
I always thought that the VP was in charge of the Senate. . Harry Reid is only responsible for the Democrat Senators. Why is he calling the shots
Obama has nothing to lose because he can't run again. Hillary is not involved so her political future is safe. The GOP has everything to lose and I hope they do lose it.
Biden's role is comic relief. Does anyone take him seriously? He is one of the reasons more people are not demanding Obama's impeachment and/or resignation. Could you see "run at the mouth" Biden as president? We have lost much of the respect of foreign nations already. Put Biden in as President, and WE WILL BE A COMPLETE LAUGHINGSTOCK. Could you imagine Biden chatting with Putin..... that is just too funny this early in the morning.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Rozsival celebrates with Cup in Czech Republicby Michael Langr
VLAŠIM, Czech Republic -- A year ago, defenseman Michal Rozsival was an unrestricted free agent considering his options after 11 seasons in the NHL. He chose to sign with the Chicago Blackhawks because he felt there was a very good chance he could become an NHL champion.
Follow the travels of the Stanley Cup this summer as the Blackhawks celebrate their second championship in four seasons. FOLLOW THE BLOG ›
It turns out he was right. He celebrated his first Stanley Cup win with the Blackhawks in June and on Wednesday added to those memories when he brought the Cup to his home in the Czech Republic.
"It's great to see the Cup again," Rozsival told reporters in Vlašim, a small town located in the central region of the country.
The defenseman grew up in Vlašim and played junior hockey here and with the team in Dukla Jihlava. After being picked by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the fourth round (No. 105) of the 1996 NHL Draft, he moved to Canada to play junior hockey with the Swift Current Broncos of the Western Hockey League.
The 34-year-old has 64 goals and 272 points in 783 NHL games. During the 2011-12 season with the Phoenix Coyotes, he lost in the Western Conference Final against the Los Angeles Kings. But this year with the Blachawks, his dream of winning the Cup came true.
"I am a veteran, so I am very glad I've reached this achievement. If I do not win the Cup again, I can still say, 'Well, I have it,'" said Rozsival, who signed a two-year contract with the Blackhawks in July. "To win it this year does not mean my motivation for next season will be lower. You always want to win. Once you taste this sweet fruit, you start loving it and you want to get more."
The iconic trophy was brought to Rozsival's house in the suburbs of Prague after spending Tuesday with countryman Michael Frolik. After receiving the Cup, Rozsival first sat in the garden and enjoyed a quiet moment with the most famous trophy in sports.
"I've been thinking a lot about that achievement and I realized that it's a rarity," Rozsival said. "I've heard just about 1,200 players had won it in the past. That's not so much through the entire history [of hockey]."
In the early afternoon, he rented a boat on the Vltava river and took his family for a ride through the historical city center of Prague.
"We took some lovely pictures under the Charles Bridge and on the Wenceslas Square. Some tourists around us were surprised, but it was not that crowded," Rozsival said.
With the Cup visiting Vlašim for the first time, more than 3,000 people waited to participate in the official celebration. Rozsival brought the trophy to the community's new stadium and to the local rink where he learned to play hockey.
"I've spent a lot of time on that ice," he said. "Some things have changed here, but the old boards are still the same. It's a gorgeous feeling to bring the Cup to where I started playing as a kid."
Thursday, the trophy will move to Slovakia, where forward Michal Handzus will bring the Cup to his hometown of Banská Bystrica. From there, Marian Hossa will welcome the Stanley Cup on Friday in the town of Trencin, which will host the Cup for the third time in four years. Hossa and Tomas Kopecky won the Cup in 2010 with Chicago and Zdeno Chara hoisted it the following year with the Boston Bruins. Hossa and Chara are neighbors.
Over the weekend, the Cup will fly to Sweden, where four players (Johnny Oduya, Niklas Hjalmarsson, Marcus Kruger and Viktor Stalberg) will share it with their friends, family and fans.


text:
Performance black V Neck Soccer jerseys made by Lightning Wear. Dye Sublimated and ready for any holiday with our moisture management lit fit material. Design permanently affixed to product. This shirt will stay true to the original print unlike cotton and other bleeding fabrics. Made in Maryland USA. Adult and kids sizing available. *****Lightning Wear is a USA based manufacturer of custom dye sublimated apparel and team uniforms. All of our garments are printed cut and sewn in our Maryland factory. Our specialties include lacrosse shorts, shooter shirts, team uniforms, reversible jerseys and team uniforms. We employ in house graphic artists. Our team is capable of producing up to 5000 pieces per week. We use state of the art print technology. As well we use only the finest materials, inks and paper to produce our garments. The soccer jerseys and adult/ youth soccer shirts are made of our signature LitFit material. Our Athletic Shorts and shirts are comfortable and wash well. Show your pride and love for soccer on the big day or any day of the year.
Additional information
|.8 lbs
|10 × 12 × 1 in
3 Extra Large, 5 Extra Large, Large, Medium, Small, X-Large, X-Large Youth, XX-Large, Youth Extra Small, Youth Large, Youth Medium, Youth Small


text:
Story highlights
- President Obama had appointed NLRB members during a Senate holiday break
- Lawmakers had used a "virtual Congress" tactic to prevent such appointments
- A U.S. Court of Appeals had ruled the appointments unconstitutional
President Obama's recess appointments to a federal agency-- made without Senate confirmation-- will be reviewed by the Supreme Court, the court announced Monday. It will mark a major constitutional test of executive power.
At issue is whether three people named to the National Labor Relations Board lack authority because the presidential appointments were made while the Senate was technically in a "pro forma" session during the 2011-12 winter holiday break.
The case sets up a high-stakes Supreme Court fight between the other two branches of government. Oral arguments will be held in public session later this year or early next.
Republican and Democratic lawmakers in the past have used the "virtual Congress" tactic to block unilateral appointments by the president when the Senate is away.
A federal appeals court in January determined the NLRB "could not lawfully act, as it did not have a quorum."
Republicans had claimed the appointments to the board created a panel that was overly pro-union, and an eventual high court ruling could invalidate hundreds of findings issued over the past two years.
What the justices decide could also put in jeopardy the recess appointment of Richard Cordray, who heads the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, a move also being challenged in a separate lawsuit.
"Allowing the president to define the scope of his own appointments power would eviscerate the Constitution's separation of powers," said the judges from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in their January 25 ruling. "An interpretation of 'the recess' that permits the president to decide when the Senate is in recess would demolish the checks and balances inherent in the advice-and-consent requirement, giving the president free rein to appoint his desired nominees at any time he pleases, whether that time be a weekend, lunch, or even when the Senate is in session and he is merely displeased with its inaction. This cannot be the law."
The White House has said it believes the pending case will not affect Cordray's appointment, but did express displeasure with the appeals court's January action.
"The decision is novel and unprecedented. It contradicts 150 years of practice by Democratic and Republican administrations," said Jay Carney, White House press secretary. "So we respectfully, but strongly disagree with the rulings. There have been -- according to the Congressional Research Service -- something like 280-plus intra-session recess appointments by Democratic and Republican administrations dating back to 1867. That's a long time and quite a significant precedent."
There was no immediate reaction from the White House or congressional leaders Monday to the Supreme Court's decision to intervene and offer the final legal word.
Eighteen months ago, Obama had defended his moves after Senate Republicans earlier blocked giving Cordray a floor vote.
"When Congress refuses to act and as a result hurts our economy and puts people at risk, I have an obligation as president to do what I can without them," the president said in January 2012. "I will not stand by while a minority in the Senate puts party ideology ahead of the people they were elected to serve."
Senate Republicans had applauded the earlier court decision.
"The D.C. Circuit Court today reaffirmed that the Constitution is not an inconvenience but the law of the land, agreeing with the owners of a family-owned business who brought the case to the court," Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said in a written statement.
Some GOP lawmakers also accused the president of flip-flopping on the issue. When he was a senator, Obama criticized then-President Bush's recess appointment of John Bolton as ambassador to the United Nations.
Cordray was named the same day as the three NLRB appointments, which gave the board a full panel for the first time in a year. Two of the members were Democrats, the other a Republican.
The lawsuit was brought by Noel Canning, a family-owned Yakima, Washington, bottling company, which complained the NLRB unfairly ruled in favor of Teamsters Local 760 during contract negotiations. Company executives said the board lacked a binding quorum because the recess appointments made by Obama were not legal.
"Small-business owners throughout the country have suffered under the unabashedly pro-union decisions handed down by the NLRB," said Karen Harned, executive director of the National Federation of Independent Business, which filed an amicus brief in the case. "They deserve to be protected from unconstitutional acts that exacerbate the NLRB's devolution from a neutral arbiter between labor and employers to a pro-union government agency."
The issue has sharpened tensions between the White House and Congress. The nation's founders placed the power to make recess appointments in the Constitution to ensure government could operate, back when Congress did not meet year-round. Over the decades, presidents of both parties have used them for political and practical purposes.
Since May 2011, Republicans have been relying on a little-known procedure to keep the chamber in session, even when it was not really conducting any business -- in order to stop the president from making those recess appointments.
The legal basis comes from a 1993 Department of Justice brief saying the president should act only if the Senate is in official recess more than three days.
So, party leaders had arranged for a single Republican lawmaker to show up every three days and gavel the Senate to order, wait around for a while, gavel it to a close, then leave.
Legal experts have disagreed on both the tactical and timing procedures by the Senate, and whether the president has unilateral authority to override those legislative tactics.
The case to be decided by the high court is Noel Canning v. NLRB (12-1115).


text:
Tennis partners that play at McFetridge in Chicago. All levels welcome, scroll through the players on the right to find a good match.
Location: Chicago, Illinois IL
Members: 50
Latest Activity: Jun 3, 2019
Want more organized tennis? Try a flex league where you are matched with players of your level in your town. We've partnered with ChiTownTennis.com and all Tennisopolis members get 10% off your first league! Click here to join.Find Today's Daily Deal on the Best in Chicago!
Started by Mark / The Mayor. Last reply by Shereef Zedan May 2, 2012. 1 Reply 0 Likes
Started by Chicago Tennis Collective. Last reply by Southpaw Jun 9, 2011. 3 Replies 0 Likes
Started by Jazz Burks. Last reply by Jazz Burks Nov 17, 2008. 4 Replies 0 Likes
Started by Vladi Kostadinoff Oct 15, 2008. 0 Replies 0 Likes
Hit me up if anyone wants to play at McFetridge or any other courts in chicago this week/ Can play most weekday evenings and weekends all day
Awesome release, the Best of Oscar Modern Tennis Methodology 2 hr DVD. Bring your game to a whole new level. Go to www.tennisteacher.com
Hi, guys
My name is Tommy. I'm wondering if you guys are still playing at the Mcfetrige or some other courts. I'm relatively new to Chicago and I'd love to get back to tennis.
shoot me an email or text.
[edit: please share private info via PM or Friend Request]
The workshops in the evenings are a little higher level than the classes. I think if you are looking for consistent 3.5 and 4.0 hitters it is best to look in the nighttime leagues. I have not tried the classes at Northwestern university now that the tennis team has taken over instruction there but there were some good hitters there and they are running USTA teams out of there. try
Move your feet sports used to run classes out of there they now are at mclurg court downtown.
Is anyone taking the Winter class with Carlos at McFetridge?
Hello Chicagoans!!!
New to this website; lets see if it even works. Looking for a tennis partner. Weekday evenings and Weekends anytime. Write me and we'll go from there.
Would like to hit evenings or weekends..Do not have my membership yet at McFedtridge, but will get it the first time I play. I've heard they've improved the lights.
Just call me at[edit: please share private info via PM or Friend Request] if you want to play....
Thank You
© 2020 Created by Mark / The Mayor. Powered by


text:
THE SQL Server Blog Spot on the Web
No, I'm not talking about US dollars, which are not worth much at all these days. I'm talking about the $ used in a particular construct in SQL Server 2005 to get information about a partition definition. There is a construct called $PARTITION which the BOL actually refers to as a function, but it doesn't act like any other function in the product. What's strange about it is that it gets concatenated to another function, which must be a previously defined partitioning function. My contacts at Microsoft have actually said we should think of $PARTITION more like a special namespace that exists in each database, and contains all of the partition functions we have defined.
I'm going to define a simple partition function with 3 boundary points (4 partitions) and a simple partition scheme that uses the same filegroup for all the partitions. I'll show you the usage of $PARTITION and also show you a pretty nasty bug that was just reported on the public newsgroups that can occur when using $PARTITION. I suggest using a test database for this example. Create one if you don't have one already.
-- CREATE DATABASE testdbUSE testdb;GOCREATE PARTITION FUNCTION myRangePF (int)AS RANGE LEFT FOR VALUES (2500, 5000, 7500);GOCREATE PARTITION SCHEME myRangePSAS PARTITION myRangePFALL TO ([PRIMARY]);GO
As soon as you've created the partition function, you can use $PARTITION, as it doesn't require any actual data. It will tell you which partition any particular value would be in when using the specified function. So
SELECT $PARTITION.myRangePF(2500);
will tell you that 2500 will be in partition 1. In fact, the main reason I use $PARTITION is to verify my boundary values, and make sure they are in the partition that I expect them to be in.
However, you can also use $PARTITION on a populated table. Let me create a partitioned table and insert 10000 rows into it.
CREATE TABLE dbo.myRangeTable (c1 INT, c2 CHAR (10)) ON myRangePS (c1)GOSET NOCOUNT ONGODECLARE @n INT;SELECT @n = 1;WHILE (@n < 10000) BEGIN INSERT INTO dbo.myRangeTable VALUES (@n, REPLICATE ('a', 10)); SELECT @n = @n + 1; END;
I can now use $PARTITION to determine how many rows are in each partition.
SELECT $PARTITION.myRangePF(c1) Partition_Number, count(*) as row_countFROM dbo.myRangeTableGROUP BY $PARTITION.myRangePF(c1);
Here are my results:
Partition_Number row_count---------------- -----------3 25001 25004 24992 2500
Partition_Number row_count---------------- -----------3 25001 25004 24992 2500
Let's suppose I now want to turn this query into a view, so I don't have to type all that messy stuff all the time.
CREATE VIEW dbo.PartitionSizesAS SELECT $PARTITION.myRangePF(c1) Partition_Number, count(*) as row_count FROM dbo.myRangeTable GROUP BY $PARTITION.myRangePF(c1);
This works fine. I can select from the view and get the same results I got from the standalone query.
Now, for the bug. If you're going to try this, make sure you're using Query Analyzer or SSMS from which you can easily cancel a query. If you try to SELECT from this view from another database, the query freezes.
USE tempdb;GOSELECT * FROM testdb.dbo.PartitionSizes;
You'll have to cancel the query to get control back. It's very interesting, because sysprocesses doesn't show the query is being blocked, but it is not making any progress. The cpu, memusage and physical_io values do not change while the query is frozen. The only interesting thing I can find is that process is holding a database lock on a resource called [PLAN GUIDE] and it's holding a couple of Metadata [MD] locks. But the locks have all been granted and no one is waiting for anything.
My first thought was that you couldn't access the $PARTITION namespace from another database, which is still no reason the connection should freeze. But in fact you CAN access $PARTITION from another database. I could execute the underlying SELECT statement directly:
USE tempdbGOSELECT testdb.$PARTITION.myRangePF(c1)as Partition_Number, count(*) as row_countFROM testdb.dbo.myRangeTableGROUP BY testdb.$PARTITION.myRangePF(c1);
The above works just fine. Accessing the SELECT using $PARTITION through a view in another database doesn't work, and a bug has been filed on it.
There actually is a workaround you can use if you want a simpler way to get the rowcounts for every partition in a table. You can use the dynamic management view sys.dm_db_partition_stats to get the same information, without having to use $PARTITION. Although this metadata view has lots of columns, I am only interested in two of them right now.
USE testdbGOCREATE VIEW dbo.PartitionSizes2 AS SELECT Partition_Number, row_count FROM sys.dm_db_partition_stats WHERE object_id = object_id('myRangeTable');
Now you can select from this view from any database, and get the results you want.
USE tempdb;GOSELECT * FROM testdb.dbo.PartitionSizes2;
Have fun!
If you would like to receive an email when updates are made to this post, please register here
Subscribe to this post's comments using
Hi Kalen,
Very interesting indeed. I tested it and noticed an interesting lock that comes and goes during the time the "select" is being executing.
ObjId: object id of the view
Type: TAB
Resource: [COMPILE]
Mode: X
Something is happening that SS is constantly adquiring an exclusive lock (X) on the view and the resource is [COMPILE]. You have to execute sp_lock multiple times to be able to see it. I am confused here, because [COMPILE] should be for compilation of a stored procedure, right?. Anyway, I decided to change the view definition and qualify the function with the database name, in case something wierd could be happening while referencing the view from another database. Guess what, now the "select" statement behaves as expected.
CREATE VIEW dbo.PartitionSizes
testdb.$PARTITION.myRangePF(c1) Partition_Number,
count(*) as row_count
Finally, a real geeky post. I received two questions in as many weeks about what really happens to existing
On our server (2008R2 SP1), using the same syntax for our Database/PF but simply trying to get it back for particular day (using '20120601' instead of C1), we got back:
Msg 164, Level 15, State 1, Line 1
Each GROUP BY expression must contain at least one column that is not an outer reference.
If we used your query, narrowing down via a subquery selecting just from
the partition we care about, we got the partition_number.


text:
Product Information
Get the performance you demand at a price that makes sense with Low-Smoke Zero-Halogen (LSZH) Fiber Patch cables from Cables To Go. They provide high bandwidth and transmission rates and support longer distances, but are still cost effective. Perfect for use with today's high speed networks while providing headroom for tomorrow's higher bandwidth requirements.¤¤LSZH jackets are composed of materials that lessen the emmissions of smoke and halogens when the cable is exposed to extreme temperatures. This reduces the amount of harmful toxic and corrosive gases that cabling made with plastic materials would otherwise emit into the air during combustion. This construction makes LSZH cables ideal for use where the protection of people and equipment from harmful corrosive gasses is absolutely critical.


text:
Casio Releases Third-Generation High Speed EXILIM Camera with Improved Comfort and Beauty
Flagship Model Equipped with New Graphical User Interface and Hardware as well as Functions That Make the Most of High Speed Technologies
Norderstedt, September 18, 2012
- Casio Europe GmbH and its parent company, Casio Computer Co., Ltd., today announced the release of a new model in the High Speed EXILIM line of digital cameras-the EX-ZR1000. Equipped with a 24mm
wide-angle lens and 12.5x optical zoom, the EX-ZR1000 inherits the renowned quick shooting capabilities of every High Speed EXILIM, and comes equipped with a newly designed, high-quality graphical user interface (GUI). Brand-new features include a function ring and Tilt-type LCD for noticeably better operability and superior shooting performance compared to previous models.
*1 When converted to 35mm film format
When Casio released its EX-F1 in 2008, the camera's shooting speed of 60 shots per second was the world's fastest.
The product created a new market for Casio's High Speed EXILIM technology, which can record motion too fast for the human eye to see. Casio then combined its high-speed shooting and high-speed image processing technologies to develop its new EXILIM Engine HS in 2010. This new engine was included in the EX-ZR10, a high-performance model that outdid conventional compact digital cameras with its high-speed shooting response and high-speed burst shooting functions.
*2 As at January 6, 2008, based on a Casio survey of consumer market digital cameras.
With the new EX-ZR1000, Casio has aimed to design a compact digital camera that can beautifully capture all the moments that users want to preserve. Powered by the EXILIM Engine HS with a newly developed system that aims for a "TRIPLE ZERO" solution for eliminating time lag, blur, and camera shake, this new product represents the third generation of the High Speed EXILIM line.
The EX-ZR1000 offers high-speed shooting capability, with a start-up time of 0.99 seconds,
a high-speed auto focus of 0.15 seconds,
and shooting between frames in as little as 0.26 seconds.
The camera is fitted with a user-friendly GUI designed for easy and intuitive operation so that photo taking is always a relaxing and pleasurable experience. Various new hardware features compliment the GUI including a function ring that enables zooming with the left hand, graphic indicators, a synchronized control dial, and an LCD that tilts, letting users take pictures at different angles. All together, these features make for quick and easy operability.
*3, 4, 5 Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA) standard compliant
Befitting this new stage of Casio's High Speed EXILIM, the EX-ZR1000 is fully loaded with new shooting functions designed to realize instantaneous TRIPLE ZERO performance. These include AF burst shooting that continues to automatically focus on moving subjects even during continuous shooting, along with Casio's All-In-Focus Macro function that ensures well-focused photos by keeping every area of the shot in focus from close-up subjects to background scenery. Also included is High-Speed (HS) Night Shot, a feature that eliminates camera shake in dark environments, even at the maximum light sensitivity level of ISO 25600.
A 10-year commemorative EXILIM package that includes a Genuine Leather Jacket Case and a neck strap in a gift box along with the EX-ZR1000 is also being made available with the launch of this product.
Main Features of the EX-ZR1000
Equipped with EXILIM Engine HS Version 3 with newly developed system
The EX-ZR1000 employs a newly developed system for Casio's EXILIM Engine HS, which consists of a reconfigurable processor and a vector graphics core. The vector graphics core smoothly produces two-dimensional images, while the reconfigurable processor combines high-performance functions and high-speed processing via a dual-CPU, two parallel image processors and various other new technologies. These improvements deliver best-ever high-speed shooting capability, including 0.99-second
start-up time, 0.15-second
high-speed auto focus, and as little as 0.26-second
shooting between frames. The camera also boasts a high-quality GUI. The display is very easy to view, making for intuitive operation.
*6, 7, 8 CIPA standard compliant
Fitted with a function ring and control dial for intuitive and quick operation
Casio has remodeled the EX-ZR1000 with a new graphic user interface and synchronized hardware to enable more intuitive operation. Users can operate a Step Zoom with nine settings in addition to the regular zoom by rotating the function ring mounted around the lens. This lets users take successive shots by pressing the shutter with the right hand while zooming in and out with the left hand. The function ring also allows users to set the exposure value (EV) shift, shutter speed, manual focus, and white balance. In addition, the control dial mounted next to the LCD is synchronized with all settings shown in the display, enabling users to quickly change settings while looking at the LCD.
Camera stand and a
Tilt-type LCD lets users enjoy shooting from various angles
The EX-ZR1000's LCD can tilt up to 180 degrees, helping users to shoot photos from various angles as well as take self portraits with the LCD tilted at a 180-degree angle. Self portraits can also be taken when you are away from the camera by using the motion shutter, which snaps the photo in response to the subject's movements. Additionally, the built-in camera stand, which allows the user to stand the camera either horizontally or vertically, opens up even more photographic options.
Snap photography for successive shooting
Using the neck strap and the Tilt-type LCD with a fixed focus makes it easy to take snap photos without any focus time lags.
AF burst shooting keeps moving subjects in focus even while continuously shooting
Casio has accelerated the frame rate in the auto focus (AF) mode and optimized the camera's lens drive control, image sensor control and AF algorithm for parallel processing of AF operations and high-speed continuous shooting. This makes it possible to achieve AF burst shooting up to 30 frames and as fast as six frames-per-second, which makes it possible to take clear photos of moving subjects such as children and pets.
All-In-Focus Macro and Blurred Background deliver total focus control with high-speed continuous shooting
The EX-ZR1000 comes with All-In-Focus Macro, which selects only in-focus areas from continuously shot images at different focus settings to produce a composite image. This achieves photos with every area coming out in focus, from foreground subjects to far-away backgrounds, which are hard to produce using a conventional camera. Also, Casio has employed its high-speed continuous shoot technologies to create Blurred Background, an original technique for processing the background scene of a shot like the soft blur effect attainable using a single-less reflex camera, thereby accentuating the subject of the photo. Users can select from three different processing levels of blur effects to set the background focus just as they wish.
Premium AUTO PRO function produces beautiful photos with just a press of the shutter button
The Premium AUTO PRO function automatically analyzes the shooting scene to choose the best settings and perform image processing. It automatically combines images from high-speed continuous shooting according to shooting conditions to create gorgeous photos. Users can easily take sophisticated photos at the press of the shutter button, thanks to the automatic activation of functions such as HDR technology, which combines photos of differing exposures to handle high-contrast conditions, as well as High Speed Night Scene mode for night shots and High Speed Anti Shake for high-power zoom shooting, both of which combine highly sensitive, continuously shot images, taken with camera shake kept at a minimum, to reduce noise in the resulting image. For movies, the Premium AUTO Movie function automatically analyzes the scene to choose the best settings, by detecting people, landscapes, night scenes, macro subjects, blue skies, foliage and low light.
HDR technology faithfully reproduces images as they really appear, avoiding under- or over-exposure
HS Night Shot eliminates camera shake even in dark settings
With Casio's HS Night Shot, the EX-ZR1000 detects shooting conditions and conducts high-speed burst shooting of numerous frames determined automatically with a level of light sensitivity as high as ISO 25600. High-precision positioning alignment technology suppresses any low-frequency camera shake that may not be completely eliminated by the optical Anti Shake correction function. Casio's latest image-processing technology also completely removes low-frequency color noise, which has typically been very difficult for cameras to eliminate. These technologies work together to produce beautiful photos with minimal blur, even in low-light conditions.
HDR-ART for creating artistic photos; freedom to create artistic images with ART Shot
Users can create artistic photos using Casio's HDR-ART function, which combines continuous shots with differing exposures while performing advanced analysis to locally change the intensity of contrast and color saturation. Users can now choose from a total of five different processing levels of art effects to enjoy creating more freely expressive images, as two more levels have been added to the three previously available. These two new effect levels employ state-of-the-art advanced tone mapping technology to produce impressive tonal gradation for more dynamic photos. Additionally, ART Shot offers eight different filters for creating the artistic photos of the user's preference: toy camera, soft focus, light tone, pop art, sepia, monochrome, miniature and fisheye. Users can change the color and processing levels of each filter, and can view the effect on the display and adjust the result prior to actually taking a picture. Even better, all of these filters can be used for shooting movies, too.
Capture every image with and without filter processing
with a single press of the shutter
The HDR-ART function simultaneously saves both the filter-processed image and the standard photo with a single press of the shutter button.
Scenes come alive in their full expansiveness with the Wide Shot function
The EX-ZR1000 combines continuous shots taken with high-speed continuous shooting when the user is moving the camera, enabling powerful super-wide-angle shots. Users can choose wide-angle shooting modes equivalent to 14 mm or 18 mm.
Slide Panorama captures 360-degree panoramic images
The Slide Panorama function detects moving subjects and faces and adjusts them appropriately as the camera is moved, allowing users to create more natural-looking panoramic images just by panning the camera across a scene.
Multi Frame SR Zoom maintains refined image quality with exceptional clarity to a maximum zoom of 25x
The wide-angle 24 mm, 12.5x optical zoom lens offers zoom performance equivalent to a maximum of 25x optical zoom with Casio's Multi Frame SR Zoom, which actually combines a number of still images to maintain the image quality needed for high-resolution photography.
Manual shooting and Raw Image shooting mode for the enjoyment of photos taken just the way you like
There are also a variety of manual shooting features such as shutter speed priority, aperture priority, and manual exposure. The EX-ZR1000 is also equipped with a mode for saving raw images, a first for a High Speed EXILIM, made possible by the EXILIM Engine HS.
Mode dial for rapid access to shooting modes
The EX-ZR1000 is fitted with a mode dial that lets users quickly choose from 10 shooting modes, including Premium AUTO PRO, ART (which combines the HDR ART and ART Shot functions), and a Custom mode that allows the user to save favorite function settings.
Works with Eye-Fi™/FlashAir™ for wireless connection to computers and smartphones
The EX-ZR1000 is compatible with Eye-Fi™/FlashAir™, making it possible to wirelessly send photos and movies to a computer or smartphone.
EX-ZR1000 Specifications
Number of Effective Pixels
16.1 megapixels (/million)
Image Sensor
1/2.3-inch high-speed CMOS
Total Pixels
16.79 megapixels (/million)
File Format
Still Images
, JPEG (Exif Ver.2.3), DCF 2.0, DPOF
MOV format, H.264/AVC, IMA-ADPCM (stereo)
Built-in Flash Memory (Image Area)
Recording Media
SD Memory Card, SDHC Memory Card , SDXC Memory Card compatible
Number of Recorded Pixels
Still Images
16M (4608 x 3456), 3:2 (4608 x 3072), 16:9 (4608 x 2592), 10M (3648 x 2736),
5M (2560 x 1920), 3M (2048 x 1536), VGA (640 x 480)
FHD:1920x1080 (30fps) / HD
: 1280x720 (15fps/20fps/30fps) / STD: 640x480 (30fps) /
HS1000:224 x64 (1000fps) / HS 480 : 224x160 (480fps) / HS 240 : 512x384(240fps) /
HS 120 : 640x480 (120fps) /HS 30-240 : 512x384 (30 to 240fps) / HS 30-120 : 640x480 (30 to 120fps)
Recording Capacity
(Maximum Image Size Setting)
Still Images
SD Memory Card 16GB
Fine: Approx. 1072 shots
Normal: Approx. 1654 shots
Recording Time
Maximum recording time per file: 29minutes
SD Memory Card 16GB
Approx. 2 hours 13 minutes (FHD)
Continuous Shooting Speed
30 frames per second / 15 frames per second / 10 frames per second /
5 frames per second / 3 frames per second
9 lenses in 8 groups, including aspherical lens
F3.0 (W) to F5.9 (T)
Focal Length
f= 4.24 to 53.0mm
35mm Film Equivalent
Approx. 24 to 300mm
Zoom Ratio
12.5 x optical zoom, 25.0x Multi SR Zoom, 4x digital zoom,
199.3x maximum digital zoom (in conbination with HD zoom, VGA size)
Focus Type
Contrast Detection Auto Focus
Focus Modes
Auto, Macro, Super Macro, Infinity, Manual
AF Area
Intelligent, Spot, Multi, Tracking
AF assist lamp
Focus Range
(From Lens Surface)
Approx. 5cm to infinity (W)
Approx. 1cm to 50cm (Fifth step from Widest Setting)
Super Macro
Approx. 1cm to 50cm
Approx. 5cm to infinity (W)
Exposure Metering
Multi pattern, Center Weighted, Spot by imaging element
Exposure Control
Program AE, Aperture Priority AE, Shutter Speed Priority AE, Manual Exposure
Exposure Compensation
-2EV to +2EV (in 1/3EV steps)
CMOS electronic shutter and mechanical shutter
Shutter Speed
1/4 to 1/2000 second
Premium Auto PRO
4 to 1/4000 second
Aperture Priority AE
1 to 1/2000 second
Shutter Speed Priority AE/Manual Focus
15 to 1/2000 second (high-speed continuous shutter: up to 1/25000 second)
F3.0 (W) to F7.9 (W)
White Balance
Auto WB, Daylight, Overcast, Shade, Day White FL, Daylight FL, Tungsten, Manual WB
Sensitivity (SOS)
Still Images
Auto, ISO80, ISO100, ISO200, ISO400, ISO800, ISO1600, ISO3200
Still images
(HS Night Shot)
Maximum ISO25600
10 seconds, 2 seconds, Triple Self-timer
Built-in Flash
Flash Modes
Auto, Flash off, Flash on, Red eye reduction
Flash Range
(ISO Sensitivity : Auto)
Normal : Approx. 0.4 to 4.7m (W), approx. 0.9 to 2.4m (T)
Flash Lighting
Flash Charge Time
Approximately 5 seconds
Recording Functions
Snapshot (Auto mode/ Premium Auto PRO mode), Snapshot by Handsfree,
Snapshot by Super resolution technology(Multi Frame), High Speed Continuous shooting, Prerecord(still image), Marco, Super Marco, Self-timer, BEST SHOT, Face Detection,
High Speed Movie(with sound only when 30fps of HS30-120 and HS30-240), FHD Movie,
STD Movie, ART Movie, Prerecord(movie), YouTubeTM Capture Mode, Blurred Background, HDR,
HDR-art, Slide Panorama, Wide Shot, Best Selection, HS Night Shot, ART Shot,
CMOS shift stabilization, Wind noise cut, ISO High Limit, Double(HDR ART)
Playback Functions
Playback Zoom, Multi-image Screen, Protect, Date & time Edit, Rotate, Re-size, Trimming, Copy, BGM Slideshow, Brightness, White Balance, Lighting, MOTION PRINT, Movie Editing, Continuous Shooting Multi Print,
Continuous Shooting Frame Edit(DPOF Printing, Protect, Copy, Delete),
Divide Group (Dividing Up a Continuous Shutter Group)
Other Functions
PictBridge, Video Output(NTSC/PAL), Auto Rotate, Create Folder, USB charge, ECO Mode
Monitor Screen
3.0-inch TFT color LCD (Super Clear LCD), 460,800 dots (960 x 480),Tilt(180 degree)
Timekeeping Functions
Date and Time
Recorded with image data
With Time Stamp Function
Auto Calendar
To 2049
World Time
162 cities in 32 time zones, City name, date, time, daylight saving time
External connection terminal
USB port (Hi-Speed USB compliance, USB charging) / AV output terminal(NTSC/PAL), HDMI™
Power Requirements
Rechargeable lithium ion battery (NP-130) x 1
Battery Life
Number of Shots
Approx. 470 shots
Continuous Playback (Still Images)
Approx. 5 hours 20 minutes
Actual Movie Recording Time (FHD Movie)
Approx. 1 hours 25 minutes
Continuous Movie Recording Time(FHD movie)
Approx. 2 hours 20 minutes
107.5 (W) x 61.5 (H) x 36.7 (D) mm (excluding projections ; 28.0mm at thinnest point)
Approximately 255g (Including Battery and Memory Card*4)
Approximately 215g (Excluding Battery and Memory Card)
Bundled Accessories
Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery (NP-130), USB-AC Adaptor (AD-C53U)
AC Power Cord, USB cable, neck strap, Quick Start Guide
*1 DNG file format is one type of RAW image file, and it is recommended by Adobe Systems Incorporated for use as a standard image file format.
*2 Built-in memory capacity after formatting.
*3 HD movie is available for ART mode only.
*4 When using SanDisk Corporation 16GB SDHC Memory Card.
*5 Within limits of memory and battery life.
*6 Maximum movie size per file is 4GB.
*7 Using optical zoom causes the focus range to change.
*8 Depending on user's setting of Camera.
*9 Using optical zoom causes the aperture to change.
*10Â ND filter is being used.
*11Â SOS: Standard Output Sensitivity.
*12Â Range is affected by optical zoom.
*13Â HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC.
*14Â 1080/50i output is not supported for PAL output using an HDMI™.
*15Â In accordance with CIPA (Camera and Imaging Products Association) standards.
EXILIM and BEST SHOT are registered trademarks or trademarks of Casio Computer Co., LTD. Any other company or product names are registered trademarks or trademarks of those companies.
Download Press release:
This press release as PDF-file
Press pictures
Close window


text:
Those who saw them play insist that Mike Karin and Phil Latreille formed the best ice hockey tandem in the history of intercollegiate competition.
In the 50 years since they last skated together, no other duo has managed to challenge this claim.
In sports, the adage goes, numbers don't lie. That's why there are two record books for men's ice hockey at Middlebury, not just one. The first runs from 1923 to 1964. The second one marks achievements from 1965 to the present; it's titled "modern-day" records. Now, 1965 is not an arbitrary date. That was the year when intercollegiate men's ice hockey was split into divisions. (Previously, all schools, regardless of size, competed in one division.) Dividing the record book in such a way has had another consequence: it has rescued some of the greatest individual performances of recent years from relative obscurity.
Take the 35 goals scored by Kevin Cooper '04 in 2003-04, for instance. That's a modern-day Middlebury record. Or the 48 assists tallied by Kent Hughes '92 in his senior year—that's another modern-day Middlebury record. Yet neither of these worthy achievements would have approached the top of the Panthers' record book if the book had not been divided many years ago.
"There were four or five years there in the late 1950s and early 1960s when Middlebury was scoring more goals than any other hockey team in the country," says Coach Bill Beaney, who has coached the Panthers since 1986. "And it was basically because of two guys: Mike Karin and Phil Latreille."
Karin '59 and Latreille '61 played for legendary coach Walter "Duke" Nelson '32, and they are linked not just in the College's all-time record book, but in the NCAA archives as well. Karin, the consummate playmaker, registered the most points in a game (13), most assists in a game (10), and most assists per game in a season (3.1) in the history of college hockey, while the more-compact Latreille, with his booming slap shot and upper-body strength, still holds seven NCAA marks, including most goals in a season (80) and most goals in a career (250), two records that may never be touched.
Last summer, Phil, Mike, and their wives, Eileen Glasoe Latreille '62 and Lynde Sudduth Karin '62, got together for a few days in Vermont. And as Mike and Phil always do, they reminisced for hours about their coach, their teammates, and their times together.
Mike Karin came to Middlebury in 1955 via the Northwood School in Lake Placid. His father was a high school principal, and his mother was a teacher, and while growing up in Clinton, New York, he was a stick boy for the Clinton Comets in the rough-and-tumble Eastern Hockey League. Jean Phillipe Latreille grew up in Montreal, in a working-class family that spoke French, English, and a little Italian. His high school played its home games at the Montreal Forum, and he quickly became one of the most heralded scholastic hockey players in Quebec.
One winter's day in 1957, Duke Nelson decided to drive up to Montreal to watch Latreille play. "The real reason I went to Middlebury was because of Duke Nelson," Latreille says. "I can still see him talking to my mother in our little apartment. Duke had that look in his eye, and he told her he'd take care of me, so my mother said, 'Middlebury, that's where you should go to school.'"
By Latreille's account, he had more than 70 offers to play hockey in the U.S. and Canada. A powerful skater and a strong student, he was coveted by the Ivy League, as well as some Big Ten schools, several colleges out West, and a number of schools and programs in Canada; even the NHL's Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Red Wings expressed interest. (He would eventually enjoy a brief career with the New York Rangers post-Middlebury.) But because Duke Nelson hit it off with his mother, Latreille went to Middlebury and etched his name in the Panther record book.
In their first game together, the 1957 season's opener, Latreille and Karin faced the Bowdoin College Polar Bears at Middlebury's Memorial Field House. Karin, the first-line center, had a pair of tallies to go with four assists. Latreille debuted with two goals and three assists on an all-freshman line with Dick Morrison '61 and Frank Coy '61. The Middlebury Campus called the 15-0 outcome a "massacre."
After the game, Bowdoin's coach was steamed. As Latreille recalls, he came into the locker room afterwards and told Duke, "As long as those six freshmen are on your team, I am not playing you again." And the coach kept his promise. Bowdoin didn't schedule Middlebury again until 1962, when the aforementioned freshmen had graduated.


text:
Food & Drink
Dacha, chacha and a gay bar: 9 ways Sochi surprises
By Rachel Barth, for CNN • Updated 6th February 2014
View Gallery
9 Pictures
As one of the warmest cities in Russia -- a country with no shortage of snowy terrain -- Sochi seems an unusual place to host the Winter Olympics.
But that's not all that's notable about it.
It's also the latest hot spot for dacha-seeking oligarchs -- and President Putin.
Plus it has gay bars (despite President Putin).
And Cossacks.
Not necessarily in the gay bars, though.
1. Anyone who's anyone (or who can afford it) has a dacha there
Stalin's dacha: $10 tours.
NATALIA KOLESNIKOVA/AFP/Getty Images
The infamous Russian who put the "Russian Riviera" city on the map wasn't quite the hair-shirted leader you might expect.
Communist dictator Joseph Stalin popularized Sochi after building a summer dacha -- Russian vacation home -- here in the 1930s.
In the years since, the destination has become a summering spot for a succession of Russian politicos -- all the way up to President Putin, who has two dachas in Sochi.
MORE: How safe is Sochi? Travelers weigh their options
Sochi dachas have also become increasingly in demand from the ultra-rich so-called oligarchs who divided up much of the Russian economy among themselves with the downfall of the Soviet Union.
Rudy Giuliani talks to CNN's Piers Morgan about the threats surrounding the 2014 Olympics in Sochi.
The popularity of the resort among the wealthy and powerful has led to criticisms that it's become unaffordable to the ordinary Russians who flocked to the city after its establishment as a vacation spot in the 1950s.
CNN's Ivan Watson discusses the final preparations before the Olympic games in Sochi
You can tour the dacha that launched the locale, complete with a wax version of the "Man of Steel," avuncular pipe in hand.
Stalin's Dacha, Kurortny Prospekt 120, Khostinsky District; +7 (862) 267 05 02; tours - $10 -- by appointment
2. The Sochi Olympics aren't actually happening in Sochi
The Sochi Olympics aren't taking place in Sochi proper, which technically consists of one 32-square-kilometer district called Tsentralny.
Instead, athletes are competing in Adler, an area within Greater Sochi just north of Georgia's breakaway territory, Abkhazia.
A coastal cluster of venues south of Sochi proper house the Central Olympic Stadium and rink sports including ice hockey, curling and figure skating.
Outdoor events such as skiing and bobsleighing are being hosted within the Krasnaya Polyana resort area, about 50 kilometers away in the Western Caucasus Mountains.
3. Restaurants and bars will be smoke-free
Butting out for the Olympics: tough when 60% of Russian men smoke.
ANDREY SMIRNOV/AFP/Getty Images
In Russia, you're never far from a cigarette lighter.
Back in October, that was a lucky strike for the Olympics when a man whipped one from his pocket and quickly replenished the Olympic flame, which had blown out in the wind.
But the Sochi Olympics have committed to a smoke-free event, making it the 12th Games to do so.
This will be a trial in a country still in love with smoking -- nearly 60% of adult males and 40% of the total adult population admitted to smoking regularly in 2012, according to the World Health Organization.
READ: St. Petersburg -- 12 best sights in the city of the czars
The sale of cigarettes and smoking itself have been banned inside any Sochi Olympic venue, with the exception of specially marked smoke zones.
Smoking is also forbidden at bars and restaurants within the Olympic Park -- a step ahead of the nation.
Russia barred smoking in public spaces including airports and train stations last June, and will expand the ban to include cafés, bars and restaurants in June 2014.
It will also impose a minimum price (so long $2 packs), all in an effort to quell smoking-related deaths in Russia, which totaled 400,000 in 2012.
4. Sochi has gay bars
No gay people in Sochi? This protestor would presumably disagree.
LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images
There are no gay people in Sochi, according to mayor Anatoly Pakhomov.
Curiously enough, however, there are gay bars -- at least one that's out of the closet, that is.
Sochi's Cabaret Mayak, catering to both gay and straight clients, features a midnight show by transvestite cabaret singers.
Despite homosexuality being a federal crime in Russia until 1993, Sochi was a gay hub during Soviet times for its relaxed beachfront vibe and distance from major metropolises within the Iron Curtain.
In July, President Putin signed into law a ban on "gay propaganda," criminalizing the spread of information on "nontraditional sexual relations" among minors.
He's since lowered his sword, saying gay people will be welcome at the 2014 Olympic Games but adding in a January 17 comment to a group of Olympic volunteers: "Please leave the children at peace."
Cabaret Mayak
, Sokolova ul. 1, Khostinsky District; +7 (988) 238 30 40; open daily, year round; 21+
5. Sochi trained Russia's first space monkeys
It's a symbol of the 1960s Cold War space race etched into our collective imagination: a monkey, in full astronaut attire, manning a spacecraft.
Leading the way in Russia's monkey-manned space technology?
Sochi, of course.
MORE: Europe's 12 most impressive metro stations
Russia's first space monkeys, Abrek and Bion, were trained at a Sochi "apery" for their seven-day mission in December of 1983.
The Monkey Nursery Center (
Vesyoloe 1, Adler District; + 7 (862) 241 62 39; call for tours -- $7
) is open to visitors curious to tour the training and testing facility, or just hang with 2,700 apes.
6. Cossacks patrol the streets
"Which may to the bobsled final, Mr Cossack?"
DANIL SEMYONOV/AFP/Getty Images
Their tall lamb's wool hats, emblazoned coats and flamboyant dance style have earned Cossacks a place in the world's vision of Russia, with help from Russian literary icons Leo Tolstoy and Alexander Pushkin.
Now, the once feared horsemen who secured the frontier for Russian tsars have joined forces with police patrolling Sochi.
Russia and the Cossacks have a patchy history.
After centuries as allies of Russia, the east Slavic people suffered harshly under the communists for their opposition to the Red Army.
But since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Cossacks have gradually returned to popular favor in Russia.
Echoing the mid-19th-century Caucasian War when Cossacks served as border guards, current governor Aleksandr Tkachev of Sochi's Krasnodar region hired a thousand fur-clad Cossacks to help to secure the Olympic Games.
Cossacks make up only a small fraction of the approximately 40,000 security forces at the Olympics.
7. It might not be vodka in that shot glass
Russian toasting: Better learn the rules.
VIKTOR DRACHEV/AFP/Getty Images
Russia's toasting rules are complicated.
What, or whom, to toast changes with each clink, but one constant remains: vodka.
In Sochi, however, vodka is often swapped for its fruitier Caucasian counterpart, chacha, a Georgian pomace brandy, often distilled like moonshine (so if you aim to taste, you're advised to look for safer, bottled varieties).
READ: The new London, Paris and Rome
Similar to Italian grappa, chacha takes on the flavor of the grape skins and walnut shells often infused with the liquor.
Georgian lore claims chacha has healing qualities, easing earaches and indigestion.
Just like vodka.
8. The cuisine may be Armenian and Georgian
Sochi, which underwent multi-ethnic colonization in the 19th century, may technically be all-Russian now, but its food remains diverse.
With Armenians accounting for 20% of the city's population, and close proximity to Georgia, Sochi offers an impressive sampling of cuisine beyond the dill and sour cream of traditional Russian fare.
You'll find authentic Armenian at kitschy Amshensky Dvor (
Krasnoflotskaya ul. 15, Adler District; +7 (862) 295 51 21; open daily, year round
) part of the largest private museum of Caucasian artifacts and history. Chefs make wood-fired lavash bread and clay-pot stews.
A Georgian favorite is Ne Goryuy (
Riversky per. 6-а Sochi Khostinsky District; +7 (918) 406 41 04; open daily, rear round
), known for its chakhokhbili -- chicken in garlic sauce -- and its quiet location off the seashore.
9. Sochi overlaps with a UNESCO World Heritage Site
First the bare-chested fishing, now the "Sochi leopard" pose.
ALEXEI NIKOLSKY/AFP/Getty Images
Olympics visitors can enter the Caucasian Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that partially overlaps with Sochi National Park in the Western Caucasus.
The Yew and Boxwood grove -- the biosphere spot most easily accessible from Sochi -- features 1,000-year-old trees and plant relics from prehistoric times.
One of the largest protected areas in Europe, the preserve has around 30 endemic mammals including the Caucasian bison and the Persian leopard, currently being reintroduced to the region and also a mascot for the Sochi Olympics.
Yew and Box Grove, Khosta District; +7 (862) 262 16 42; open daily, year round
MORE: 20 most annoying things people do on planes
A year of the world's
Best Beaches
There's a perfect beach for every week of the year. Join us on a 12-month journey to see them all
Go to the best beaches


text:
Almost everyone who works at an agency has a few favourite horror stories about the particularly tricky negotiation into their first position. The crazed lunacy of certain graduate recruitment processes (mine still gives me nightmares), the deeply uncomfortable hours spent in creative directors' offices having your book taken to pieces, begging your way onto an intern programme, starting out in the mailroom. It's always been tough. It's part of the folklore. At least the reward's in the car park.
But now it's tougher than ever. No, really. A punchy piece by Jef Loeb on TalentZoo.com, "Same as It Never Was", published just recently, paints a undeniably grim picture of an industry undergoing dramatic change. Loeb's themes – structural transformation, accelerating evolution of new media trends, financial woes – are painfully familiar. As he notes, even if we've passed the bottom of the trough, our "shared profession is more than a long link or two from being at the top of the food recovery chain".
Imagine now that you're just graduating from your Ad School or coming to the end of a degree or Fine Arts programme. Suddenly the tales we recount of our elaborate scheming to get a job out of college look like some kind of joke. Where would you start today?
We met a brilliant young graduate from the VCU Brandcenter a few weeks ago who finds himself in exactly this position. Hank Leber is fresh out of this highly prestigious school, is clearly awesomely smart and is super nice & full of character into the bargain. Given we're not taking on interns just at the moment (oh, how I wish we could), we got talking about exactly what Hank might do.
We talked about the trials of internship (Hank had previously had a very successful internship at DDB, so he knew what he was talking about when he mentioned hard work). We mulled over the crunch that agencies were feeling right now, making even internships tricky to come by, let alone permanent positions. And we noted that despite all this, many agencies were still spending heavily on (expensive) freelance resource. As Loeb notes, we're "living in an extraordinarily deep and flexible buyers' market for full time, freelance and project-based help alike."
As we talked about this last point, Hank came up with a radical idea. Forget begging your way onto the bottom of a long and fairly shaky ladder, working to cover expenses. Hell, why not just launch an agency instead? But an agency with a difference. An agency that doesn't charge. Agency Nil.
This is the rationale, straight from Hank:
It's been a while since I had an Econ class, but I remember the laws of supply and demand. If supply goes down and demand goes up, price goes up. Supply goes up and demand goes down, the price tanks. In advertising we now have a ton of supply (talented but jobless ad people) and lower demand (clients cutting budgets mercilessly) and indeed levels of fees and margins ARE coming down for agencies, for the SAME level of service, or even more.
I think there's a pride clause to be noted. Freelancers won't work for less than what they're used to, and laid-off ad people can't fathom living paycheck to paycheck.
The only ones left to do the work for cheap are interns. But interns need hand holding, at best. At worst – a reworking of their work which takes as much time as doing the work yourself.
ENTER: the young, hungry, talented, not-afraid-to-take-a-risk individuals coming out of portfolio schools, graduate programs, and those from agencies – recently laid off but not yet spoiled by a big paycheck.
We can do the work, have the confidence and skills to do it well, we're complete digital natives, and we don't mind taking the risk of saying "don't pay anything up front, then. We'll do the work and if you like it, then pay us whatever you think is fair." We'll prove it.
It works out nicely for both parties. The agencies can feel like they're shaving big percentages off of their expenditures and we the workers wind up doing better in the long run than getting sporadic freelance at a high rate. And we're learning as we go . . .
It's a win/win. And that's the kind of business I like to be in.
Hank & his team are going to make this work. I strongly encourage you to check out what they're saying about what they do, how they propose to go about it, and how you can get involved. Their site is http://www.agencynil.com/, their twitter feed is at https://twitter.com/agencynil and Hank's at email@example.com.
We're really up for seeing how this goes at BBH Labs because this is an innovative and simple new model that appears incredibly timely. And I'm just struck by – and a little envious of – their energy and their raw swagger. That alone makes Hank & his new colleagues stand out from the crowd right now and ensures that whatever the external or initial response to this new start-up, they'll make this awesome.


text:
Re: something else - ebony (04/11/17 20:34:34)
I don't know about ebony - but there are some interesting experiments related to kitchen hygiene.
If you use a wooden carving board
for your food salmonella-contaminated chicken, then bacteria live shorter on the board than if you use a polythene board. And, I'd think it is likely that wood in general, but specially tropical wood, contain strong chemicals to fend off bacteria and pests. So it would not surprise me if they are toxic to humans. Actually wood dust toxicity is a problem not only with ebony.
This seems like an example of the general principle that plants defend themselves with chemicals. Not all of those are poisons to humans, but some are.
|back to main board
|expand thread
|This board has been visited 1142869 times
|Current time is 04/08/20 19:18:34


text:
Hang in there folks...we've been busy here in the Rogue Valley. Lots of ultrarunning to recap! Its all very exciting; we're witnessing the dawning of a new movement in the sport of ultrarunning: so many folks taking part, so many races, and competitive fields getting faster and faster.
Lets start up north at the Chuckanut Mountain 50K near Bellingham, WA. The esteemed owner of Rogue Valley Runners, Hal Koerner, and his girlfriend, Carly Varner, traveled to join 270 runners for the 17th running of this trail event. Good weather, good competition and solid training helped Hal to a tight third place finish in four hours, 2 minutes and 18 seconds. One of the fastest times ever run on the course! Carly finished in a strong 6:04:49.
The start of the Chuckanut 50K.
Hal stretches it out in the early flat miles.
Due south was the running of the largest 50 kilometer race in the US, a trail race called Way Too Cool. John Leuthold, Todd Ragsdale and Anne Crispino-Taylor went to check out what all the hub-bub was about.
Here's what we heard after the race went down:
John Leuthold -- "Basically, Ian lied to me. It was more technical and harder than I was led on. There were 16 creek crossings! I was impressed at the amount of ultrarunning talent gathered for this one race."
Todd Ragsdale -- "I went through mile one in 6:44! I looked around and nobody cared. I knew at that point that this was going to be a fast 31 miles! This was the prettiest piece of California I've ever seen."
John finished in 4:12:18, Todd in 4:22:51 and Anne in 5:57:33.
Way Too Cool's course has some sweet singletrack!
This past weekend a large contingent of Rogue Valley Runners went across the mountains to Sisters, Oregon (near Bend) for the Peterson Ridge Rumble 60K and 30K trail races.
Here's a small report from Eric Poole (who finished 5th in the 60K distance):
"Here's a run down of the Best Of's:
Best shoes - Jenn Shelton with her snake skin clogs
Best tights (you are jealous are you not) - Tom Pelsor
Best Effort - Rob (double hernia and throw in some giardia for good luck) Cain - AMAZING - he had lost about 5% of his body weight pre run!!!!
Best Driver - Annie (I'll even pass a sheriff - almost) Crispino-Taylor
Worst Parking Karma - Annie (I'll pass all the good spots close to the Bend Brewing Company) Crispino-Taylor
Best luck - Ben (first time playing "rocks, paper, scissors" and he wins) Benjamin
Best impression of a bad ice skater - Steve Greuel
Most "together" after the run - Clyde "The Glide" Aker
Best salt lick impression after the run - Darcy Klienman
It was a fun run. I enjoyed the mix of running on some fun singletrack, dirt road and fireroads. Good aid stations that were well placed. The weather was AMAZING and the hangout scene after was really great...music, friends, BBQ and you got to cheer on the finishers. There were a number of spots on the course where you got beautiful views of Mt. Bachelor and the Three Sisters. The 60 km ended up being a wee bit over 34 miles and the 30 km ended up being closer to 20 miles."
A huge congratulations goes out the local finishers: Eric Poole, Jenn Shelton, Rob Cain, Darcy Kleiman, Ben Benjamin, Anne Crispino-Taylor, and Tom Pelsor. Look here to find out how they, and others, did.
Darcy Kleiman runnin'.
Rob Cain practices his hurdling skills.
Anne running on the dirt.
Jenn on the trail.
Ben Benjamin victorious at the finish line.
Eric Poole turns in a fast time and good race at Peterson.
Darcy and Anne love that they are DONE!
Jenn Shelton avoids the hurdles at Peterson's finish line.
Tom Pelsor finishes Peterson. Are those Clifton tights?
Rob, Anne, Jenn, Darcy, and EP look cool at Peterson.
Also this past weekend, along the shores of the American River, outside of Sacramento, CA another huge race took place; The American River 50 Mile. Bend's Max King and Ashland's Hal Koerner traveled down to the event together. Max won last year's Siskiyou Outback 50K. His goal was to finish in the top three at American River; his first foray into the 50 mile distance realm. Needless to say he did so and then some. Max won the race in 6:04:44. His next goal is to run circles around a fresh Erik Skaggs at this weekend's Pear Blossom 10 Mile Road Race.
Hal dropped at 40 miles. Saving his gusto for a better and bigger day. He was, however, good enough to accompany Max to a NASCAR event after the race festivities had concluded. A sport they both longingly crave...
Here's a story about the race from the Auburn Journal.
Max King crosses the tape at American River 50 Mile.
Thanks to Glenn Tachiyama for his shots at Chuckanut and Peterson.
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Ultra Season Underway In a BIG Way
Posted by Rogue Valley Runners at 1:06 PM
4 comments:
- Scott Dunlap said...
We were wondering where Hal disappeared to.
Max just rocked it out there against a tough field. Hoping to see him at States!
- Wednesday, April 08, 2009 1:27:00 PM
- Rennaker said...
I heard Skaggs is aiming to take Max down @ Pear this weekend. Take advantage of his tired legs...
On a side note, I heard Torrence may just beat up on John Leuthold at Pear.
- Thursday, April 09, 2009 4:30:00 PM
- Unknown said...
...Max, it would be great if you could actually just bring that tow line on down this weekend.
- Friday, April 10, 2009 1:17:00 PM
- vishus said...
The best essential information is this, that you have try to do very well approaching for that homelessness body and their helping hand. I am so inspired about that, after read your this useful written articles and your opinions also which is so attractive for do something for those
Milan Hotels
- Wednesday, June 15, 2011 11:40:00 AM
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
I'm joining everybody at Chatting at the Sky as we discover that, most of the time, it's through the little things that we learn how much we are loved.
At least that's what Aretha Franklin said. And she told us it's not in his eyes, his size, his face or embrace. According to the song, it's not even in the way he acts. Well, while I have a lot of R-E-S-P-E-C-T for Aretha, I think she's wrong about this. Let me tell you how "I know he loves me so."
It was in the scrambled eggs he made me when I was really sick. (Best scrambled eggs ever!) It's in his hand resting on my knee as we're driving down the highway. It's in his telling me to quit a job I hate, even though we could really use the second income. It's in the way he says nothing when his sisters say, "Thank you for marrying my brother. I know you put up with a lot." (Because I know he puts up with a so much more than I do.) It's in how he can just be with me without either of us having to talk; or how we can talk about everything. It's in the way he says my name, whether he's calling me Bee, or Beverly or Mama. Nobody says it like he does.
I know he loves me when he doesn't run screaming for the hills when I ask him to remodel the house with no more than a circular saw and a screwdriver. I know he loves me when he does odd jobs for my mother; simple jobs that are made aggravating and not-so-simple by her husband's fumbling attempts to help. I know he loves me when he makes sure the oil is changed and the tires on my car are safe
I know he loves me when, on a lazy Sunday afternoon, instead of watching baseball, he'll come and sit beside me on the bed. He'll take the jumbled mess of fabric in his hands, hands that are strong and nimble and meant for guitar playing, and help me figure out just how you use this toothbrush handle to make a rug. And he'll keep trying to help, even when my frustration wells up inside of me and spills all over him.
And I know he loves me when, just before we go to sleep, he tells me so. It doesn't matter if I've been


text:
clear (one's) throat(redirected from cleared his throat)
clear (one's) throat
1. Literally, to cough or make a guttural sound in an attempt to relieve a blockage in the throat, as is often caused by phlegm. I'm worried that I'm getting sick because I've had to clear my throat constantly all day long.
2. To make a coughing sound in order to attract attention. When the boss cleared her throat, we immediately stopped talking so that she could start the meeting.


text:
Submitted by Bob Cole, MIIS
The Teaching & Learning Collaborative in coordination with the Digital Media Commons at the Monterey Institute is training an army of podcasters. The one unit, fifteen hour workshop titled Digital Media for Change meets Friday afternoons from 2-4pm. Participants are exploring new communication skills with digital media with a particular focus on affecting change. We're reading and discussing the workshop text by Garr Reynolds, PresentationZen, and we have gathered online on a homegrown social network hosted by Ning: http://dm4change.ning.com. Participants will be helping the Institute build our capacity to capture campus events, speakers, and other stories that distinguish our community and reflect our mission. We're building an army of graduate students, staff, and faculty to help us! And yes, we like cupcakes.
As the workshop coordinator I am using this as an opportunity to experiment with alternative course management tools and blogging. We welcome any and all who might be interested in what we are up to, so please feel free to join us on our Ning, or grab the RSS feed for the Dm4change blog that is being piped into the main page for workshop updates and thoughts from yours truly.


text:
Elisabeth Hasselbeck of "The View" is the mother of a third child. Hasselbeck gave birth Sunday afternoon in a New York hospital to a boy, named Isaiah Timothy. She's married to former NFL player Tim Hasselbeck.
It's the couple's second son. Grace Elisabeth is 4, and Taylor Thomas is 20 months old.
VIEW THE PHOTOS: Hollywood's Hottest Moms & Their Loveable Little Ones
Isaiah weighed in at 7 pounds, 7 ounces.
The new dad reports: "Elisabeth and Isaiah are doing great."
Related Content from AccessHollywood.com:
VIEW THE PHOTOS: New York Fashion Week Fall 2009
MORE ACCESS ON THESE TOPICS: Elisabeth Hasselbeck - The View - Parenthood - TV
Copyright NBCAH - Access Hollywood


text:
Velo Mag Reviews Lezyne Micro Floor Drive and Classic Floor Drive
The French cycling magazine, Velo Mag, had some kind words about our Micro Floor Drives and Classic Floor Drive.
Translated from the above reviews:
Lezyne Classic Floor Drive – "With its reversible tip adjusting to two types of valves, piston body and its steel and aluminum base, this pump is indestructible. Not to mention its sleek look, surmounted on it is a beautiful wood handle."
Lezyne Micro Floor Drive – "Two high-pressure and high-volume models used to inflate to desired pressure any tire with any valve. Micro has the advantage of a super sturdy foot pump which has the great merit to slip in your bags without weighing it down."


text:
Amana Trust Books - Christian Bookshop
"...Look from the top of Amana..."
Song of Songs 4:8
"Amana" means truth.
Amana Trust Books is a Christian Bookshop and the distributor of the publications of Living Stream Ministry who mainly publish the writings of Watchman Nee and Witness Lee.
We are dedicated to bringing the riches of God's Word to all the Christians here in the United Kingdom and throughout Europe. Our goal is to supply spiritual food for the nourishment of all the Christians that they might grow in the divine life for the building up of the Body of Christ. In addition to the written publications Amana sponsors Life-Study of the Bible with Witness Lee, a radio program broadcast Monday to Friday at 8:00pm on Premier Radio.


text:
I am trying to make a CDF application that takes the user's system information (screen information) and adjusts the size of the application to give a seamless experience over different screens with widely varying display properties.
Below is the code I tried. It should have worked, but it doesn't. I am very confused. The CDF is intended to be deployed in Player Pro/Mathematica.
Panel[GraphicsGrid[ConstantArray[1, {48, 78}],
ImageSize -> {800, 500},
Background -> RGBColor[.745, .886,.1],
Alignment -> {Left,Top},
ItemAspectRatio -> 1
](*GraphicsGrid is Closed*),
Background -> Gray,
Alignment ->{Center, Center}
](*Panel is Closed*)
}])(*Column is Closed*),
WindowSize ->Dynamic[{Round[N[((780/96)*SystemInformation["Devices","ScreenInformation"][[1, 4, 2]])]],
Round[N[((780/96)*SystemInformation["Devices","ScreenInformation"][[1, 4, 2]])]]}]
](*CreateDocument is Closed*)
](*CdfDeploy is closed*)


text:
I name thee.
See you in a few weeks!
This concludes our second arc of Method of Fluxion- Our teenage war just went from cold to hot, just as Gotfried realized that something was very very wrong with his captain. Wonder what happens next?
You'll have to wait. Why a few weeks? A couple of reasons: If you haven't noticed, our Wednesday target has been slipping more frequently, as my day job has been getting crazier. On Sunday I have to head to Austin for 10 days for work for a SXSW project, which will be taking an unkown amount of time.
The other reason, I have to perform some updates on the site. In order to start the series instead of noodling on the site forever, I opted to just roll out with some basic functionality, and to put off other stuff until later. Well, later is here. I need to make it easier to jump back to the beginning of the series, add some next comic notification updates, and under the hood stuff. As well as some light PR.
We also want to get a leg up on arc 3 production to get us a more regular posting schedule.
And I'm working on a couple of surprises.
Anywho! See you soon. If you're curious – follow me on Twitter or on Facebook. But we're shooting for the week of March 23rd. If that changes, see the above Twitter.


text:
Pioneering since 1896
SHIMANO, ALTUS, RD-M310L, 8-Speed
SHIMANO STePS KDUE5000, 40Nm
SHIMANO SC-E6100 LCD Central Display with ANT+ & Bluetooth Function
SHIMANO BT-E8014, Semi-Internal Battery, 418Wh, (36V / 11,6Ah)
SR SUNTOUR NEX E25, 50mm
CONTINENTAL, Ride City ,Wire Reflex, PunctureProTection, 47-559
CONTINENTAL, Ride City ,Wire Reflex, PunctureProTection, 47-559
The illustrated bicycles may vary in some details from the production models, and some illustrations feature optional equipment available at additional cost. All information concerning the scope of delivery, appearance, services, dimensions and weights is non-binding and specified with the proviso that mistakes, printing, setting and typing errors may occur; such information is subject to change without notice.
* Special offer only valid at participating retailers within the promotion period until 31 August 2020.


text:
http://www.zdnet.com/windows-8-1s-byod- ... 000016280/
Everyone has weighed in on Microsoft's Windows 8.1 update due at the end of the month, but few have highlighted the finer points of this significant update. Personally, I see Windows 8.1 as the new business operating system for desktop computing. Microsoft has listened to its critics and has made some super improvements on its much-beleagured new operating system.
Some of the more exciting improvements come in the form of BYOD enhancements. I believe that it is these features that will propel Windows 8.x onto corporate desktop systems and out of critical oblivion.
Excerpt from Stephen L. Rose's Springboard Blog on Windows.com.
B.Y.O.D (Bring Your Own Device) Enhancements
•Workplace Join – A Windows 8 PC was either domain joined or not. If it was a member of the domain, the user could access corporate resources (if permissioned) and IT could control the PC through group policy and other mechanisms. This feature allows a middle ground between all or nothing access, allowing a user to work on the device of their choice and still have access to corporate resources. With Workplace Join, IT administrators now have the ability to offer finer-grained control to corporate resources. If a user registers their device, IT can grant some access while still enforcing some governance parameters on the device to ensure the security of corporate assets.
•Work Folders - Work Folders allows a user to sync data to their device from their user folder located in the corporation's data center. Files created locally will sync back to the file server in the corporate environment. This syncing is natively integrated into the file system. Note, this all happens outside the firewall client sync support. Previously, Windows 8 devices needed to be domain joined (or required domain credentials) for access to file shares. Syncing could be done with 3rd party folder replication apps. With Work Folders, Users can keep local copies of their work files on their devices, with automatic synchronization to your data center, and for access from other devices. IT can enforce Dynamic Access Control policies on the Work Folder Sync Share (including automated Rights Management) and require Workplace Join to be in place.
•Open MDM- While many organizations have investments with System Center and will continue to leverage these investments we also know that many organizations want to manage certain classes of devices, like tablets and BYOD devices, as mobile devices. With Windows 8.1, you can use an OMA-DM API agent to allow management of Windows 8.1 devices with mobile device management products, like Mobile Iron or Air Watch .
•NFC tap-to-pair printing – Tap your Windows 8.1 device against an NFC-enabled printer and you're all set to print without hunting on your network for the correct printer. You also don't need to buy new printers to take advantage of this; you can simply put an NFC tag on your existing printers to enable this functionality.
•Wi-Fi Direct printing – Connect to Wi-Fi Direct printers without adding additional drivers or software on your Windows 8.1 device, forming a peer-to-peer network between your device and any Wi-Fi enabled printer.
•Native Miracast wireless display – Present your work wirelessly with no connection cords or dongles needed; just pair with project to a Miracast-enabled projector through Bluetooth or NFC and Miracast will use Wi-Fi to let you project wire-free.
• Mobile Device Management - When a user enrolls their device, they are joining the device to the Windows Intune management service. They get access to the Company Portal which provides a consistent experience for access to their applications, data and to manage their own devices. This allows a deeper management experience with existing tools like Windows Intune. IT administrators now have more comprehensive policy management for Windows RT devices, and can manage Windows 8.1 PCs as mobile devices without having to deploy a full management client.
•Web Application Proxy - The Web Application Proxy is a new role service in the Windows Server Remote Access role. It provides the ability to publish access to corporate resources, and enforce multi-factor authentication as well as apply conditional access policies to verify both the user's identity and the device they are using resources, and enforce multi-factor authentication as well as verify the device being used before access is granted.
•RDS Enhancements - Enhanced VDI in Server 2012 R2 which delivers improvements in Management, Value, and User Experience. Session Shadowing allows Admins to view and remotely control active user sessions in an RDSH server. Diskdedupe and storage tiering allow for lower cost storage options. User experience for RemoteApps, network connectivity and multiple display support has been improved. Administrators can now easily support users with session desktops to provide helpdesk style support. Administrators now have even more flexible storage options to support a VDI environment without expensive SAN investments. End users will find RemoteApp behavior is more like local apps, and the experience in low-bandwidth is better, with faster reconnects and improved compression, and support for multiple monitors.
Two of the more exciting enhancements in this area are the mobile device management (MDM) features and Work Folders. The MDM features will make it easier for companies to integrate user-owned Windows devices into their networks. Work Folders will obviate the need for often banned or frowned upon applications like Dropbox within corporate walls. This feature is a much needed one for companies that allow or foster BYOD scenarios. I hope that Microsoft will continue to improve upon this fledgling feature to include some advanced security and user-defined particulars.


text:
Business Lessons I've Learned as a Small Business CEOby GDN Shared Post October 4, 2013
I found a fascinating website while trolling around the Internet recently. It's called Statistic Brain and it has data and rankings on all kinds of topics, from hair loss to consumer spending. The numbers that caught my eye had to do with start-up business failures. Did you know 25 percent of start-ups strike out within the first year? Thirty-six go down in the second, and 44 percent in the third. Nearly three-quarters of businesses that start in one year will be shuttered 10 years later.
Why? "Incompetence" is the No. 1 reason, according to Statistic Brain. My fun new website cites specific pitfalls including "living too high for the business," "lack of planning" and—this one's a doozy—"non-payment of taxes!"
All those numbers made me want to pat myself on the back. My company is in its 23rd year, which sounds ancient by Statistic Brain's standards. It hasn't always been smooth sailing; there was one terrifying year in the wake of 9/11 that we very nearly went belly-up. But I changed course, pulled out of the storm, and emerged much wiser.
Reading the alarming stats on Statistic Brain made me think about what I've learned in my two-plus decades of starting and growing a small business. Much of what I know now came from painful experience; something I wouldn't wish on anyone. So, in the hope of preventing others from learning the hard way, I thought I'd share some of the lessons that have proved most valuable to me.
Be flexible when building your team. You hired Person A to do Job A, but as you get to know him, you find he has talents and skills better suited to another job—possibly even a job you haven't identified! Be open to switching things up. Your business will benefit from having the right people in the right jobs, and your employees will be happier and more productive when they're doing what they're really good at doing. No one I know enjoys work they find too easy—boring!—or too challenging. You'll have a great, loyal team if you play to individuals' strengths.
Don't spend more than you make. It may sound like a no-brainer, but based on Statistic Brain's numbers, far too many people make that deadly mistake. If your product or service isn't earning enough to pay the bills, it may be time to re-evaluate what you're offering. Is there a demand for it? Is it a quality product or service? Do you need to cut expenses—even forego taking a salary—to balance the budget while you build up the business? If you make the mistake of relying on credit or investors to pay for your daily expenses, it's going to be difficult to evaluate whether or not your business model is working.
If you borrow, invest it in the company. If you're going to draw a salary from that money, don't be tempted to take more than you absolutely need to survive. If your lifestyle is a little uncomfortable, you will be far more motivated to do whatever it takes to make your business thrive. •


text:
More Cedar Rapids Alumni Minor League signings
This morning's Sean O'Sullivan (2007) to the Padres post made me realize that I had been tweeting a lot of the minor league free agent signings, but I had not been updating them here on the blog. Here is the most updated list to the best of my knowledge.
David Herndon (2007) was claimed off waivers twice this off season and then was designated for assignment by the Yankees to accompany additional roster moves. Herndon then chose to sign a minor league deal with the Yankees. He posted a 2-8 record with a 3.85 E.R.A. in 97 games for the Phillies between 2010 and 2012 appearing in just five games this season before the injury shut him down.
David Herndon posted a 13-8 record with a 4.02 E.R.A. with two complete games in 25 appearances for Cedar Rapids in 2007. Herndon struck out 83 batters in 152 1/3 innings of work. Cedar Rapids finished the season with a 78-61 record under manager Ever Magallanes. The Kernels lost to the Clinton Lumberkings in the first round of the Midwest League Playoffs.
Darwin Perez (2009) signed a minor league deal with the Oakland Athletics after spending seven seasons in the Angels organization. Perez hit .214 with 6 HR and 36 RBI in 126 games for the Arkansas Travelers in 2012. He won the Rawlings MiLB Gold Glove at second base in 2011.
Darwin Perez hit .261 with 2 HR, 42 RBI and stole 11 bases in 106 games for the Cedar Rapids Kernels in 2009. Cedar Rapids finished the season with a 78-60 record under manager Bill Mosiello. The Kernels topped Peoria in the first round of the Midwest League Playoffs before falling to Burlington in the semifinals.
Trevor Reckling (2008) has signed a minor league deal to join the Chicago White Sox organization. Reckling pitched in the Angels organization for six seasons. He appeared in just four games for the Inland Empire 66ers in 2012. Reckling pitched in the 2009 Futures Game for team USA and reached as high as Triple-A pitching for the Salt Lake Bees in 2010 at the age of 21.
Trevor Reckling posted a 10-7 record with a 3.37 E.R.A. with one complete game in 26 starts for Cedar Rapids in 2008. Reckling struck out 128 batters in 152 1/3 innings of work and was selected to play in the Midwest League All-Star game. Cedar Rapids finished the season with a 72-66 record under manager Keith Johnson. The Kernels topped Clinton in the first round of the Midwest League Playoffs before falling to Burlington in the semifinals.
Alberto Rosario (2008) signed a minor league contract with the Boston Red Sox. Rosario caught within the Angels organization for the last seven seasons. He split time playing for the Arkansas Travelers and the Salt Lake Bees in 2012.
Alberto Rosario hit .239 in 14 games for the 2008 Cedar Rapids Kernels squad before being promoted to play for the the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes.
Hainley Statia (2006) re-signed with the Milwaukee Brewers agreeing to a minor league contract. Statia split time playing for the Huntsville Stars and the Nashville Sounds in 2012.
Hainley Statia hit .297 with 31 doubles, 1 HR, 38 RBI and stole 23 bases for the 2006 Kernels squad. Cedar Rapids finished the season with a 65-74 record under manager Bobby Magallanes.
Rich Thompson (2003) signed a minor league deal with the Toronto Blue Jays earlier this week. Thompson has compiled a 3-4 record with a 4.21 E.R.A. in six MLB seasons playing for the Angels and Athletics. He has struck out 105 batters in 104 2/3 innings of work in 82 games.
Rich Thompson posted a 1-2 record with a miniscule 0.24 E.R.A. and 9 saves in 31 games for the 2003 Cedar Rapids Kernels. The team finished in 10th place at 66-72 under manager Todd Claus. Thompson played in the 2007 Futures game representing Australia on the World team.
Brandon Wood (2004) signed a minor league deal with the Kansas City Royals. Wood had spent the 2012 season playing for the Colorado Springs Sky Sox (Rockies Triple-A) where he hit .259 with 10 HR and 64 RBI in 119 games. Brandon Wood has hit .186 with 18 HR and 64 RBI during his five MLB seasons playing for the Angels and Pirates.
Brandon Wood was a member of the 2004 Cedar Rapids Kernels team that finished with a record of 75-64 under manager Bobby Magallanes. The Kernels lost in the 1st round of the Midwest League playoffs to the Clinton Lumbkerkings. Wood hit .251 with 11 HR, 30 doubles, 64 RBI and stole 21 bases in 125 games for the Kernels. He won the Midwest League HR Derby at the 2004 MWL All-Star game hosted in Cedar Rapids.
That is all for now. I will continue to try and add these as I see them.


text:
Yes. So if you need another reason to motivate you to quit smoking, add premature wrinkles to the list.
Smoking can speed up the normal aging process of your skin, contributing to wrinkles. These skin changes may occur after only 10 years of smoking. The more cigarettes you smoke and the longer you smoke, the more skin wrinkling you're likely to have — even though the early skin damage from smoking may be hard for you to see initially. Aside from age, smoking is the strongest predictor of facial wrinkling in men and women.
And smoking doesn't cause wrinkles only on your face. Smoking is also associated with increased wrinkling and skin damage on other parts of your body, including your inner arms. While the skin wrinkles may not be reversible, you can prevent worsening of wrinkling by quitting smoking now.
How does smoking lead to wrinkles? The nicotine in cigarettes causes narrowing of the blood vessels in the outermost layers of your skin. This impairs blood flow to your skin. With less blood flow, your skin doesn't get as much oxygen and important nutrients, such as vitamin A.
Many of the more than 4,000 chemicals in tobacco smoke also damage collagen and elastin, which are fibers that give your skin its strength and elasticity. As a result, skin begins to sag and wrinkle prematurely because of smoking.
In addition, repeated exposure to the heat from burning cigarettes and the facial expressions you make when smoking — such as pursing your lips when inhaling and squinting your eyes to keep out smoke — may contribute to wrinkles.
J. Taylor Hays, M.D.
Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/quit-smoking/expert-answers/smoking/faq-20058153
Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below.
Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit organization and proceeds from Web advertising help support our mission. Mayo Clinic does not endorse any of the third party products and services advertised.
A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.org," "Mayo Clinic Healthy Living," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.


text:
Hillary Clinton Recovering at Home from Concussion
The Secretary of State passed out after stomach virus left her dehydrated
Feel better, Hillary!
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton continues to recover from a concussion she suffered after falling early last week in her Washington, D.C., home.
She was alone at the time she passed out and her concussion was not diagnosed until days later.
The concussion was not severe, her doctors said, reports and was due to dehydration suffered after a trip the former first lady took to Europe, NBC News.
Her fall will keep Clinton, who continues to be discussed as a possible presidential contender for 2016, from testifying before Congress on the attack in September in Benghazi, Libya, that killed U.S. Ambassador Chris Stevens and two Navy Seals.
"She has been recovering at home and will continue to be monitored regularly by her doctors," the State Department said in a statement this weekend. "At their recommendation, she will continue to work from home next week, staying in regular contact with Department and other officials."
Clinton, 65, who last week was named one of Barbara Walters's 10 most-fascinating people, plans to step down from her secretary post early next year. U.S. Senator John Kerry, a Democrat from Massachusetts, will reportedly be named by the Obama administration as her replacement.


text:
To update your agency's listing on the Service Directory, please enter your agency's name in the field below and click "Search." Or, find your agency's
name in our alphabetical listings by clicking on the appropriate letters below.
Please type the specific agency or program name (or any part of the name) in the field below, then click "Submit." Or click on any letter
below to view an alphabetized list.
To improve your search results use quotation marks when searching for a specific phrase.
For example, if you search for substance use, a search WITHOUT quotation marks would find listings that include the words
"substance" OR "use." A search WITH quotation marks ("substance use") would find listings only with the whole phrase "substance use."
Are you sure you want to delete this item?


text:
I'm sure some of you have read the recent posts by Psynister and Vrykerion about the WoW Ironman challenge. The basic idea is to see how far you can get by leveling in all white/grey gear, no talents/glyphs, and no groups. For more detailed info, look at either of their posts. The rules they've put forth for it (as ripped from Psyn's blog) are as follows:
1. Use only white/grey items.
2. No spending talent points. No specialization at level 10. (Regular skill training is fine.)
2. No Primary or Secondary Professions other than First Aid.
3. No means of XP boosting (No Recruit-A-Friend, No Guild, and obviously no Heirlooms)
4. No consumable bonuses (food, potions, elixirs, etc) – Rogue Poisons allowed
5. No enchants.
6. No Groups. (Since clarification was requested: That means no dungeons, no Dungeon Finder, no battlegrounds, no anything that puts you in a group and no grouping up with people to quest or anything.)
7. No Death Knights.
8. No Glyphs
Since I'm constantly rolling alts and looking for fun new ways to play the game, I've decided I'll participate too. All I need now is an idea on what race/class I should go with. So please leave a comment telling me what you think I should play!