text:
LouisvilleKY.gov Links
Thursday January 12, 2012
See what riders are saying on TARC's YouTube Channel
TARC is receiving another $1 million in federal funding to continue frequent bus service for another year on its two most popular routes.
Ridership has increased 20 percent on the routes – Dixie and Preston highways (Rt. #18) and Broadway and Bardstown Road (Rt. #23) - since last February when buses began arriving at stops every 15 minutes from 6 a.m. – 9 p.m. on weekdays. The 20 percent increase is based on ridership for both routes during the first 10 months of the frequent service compared to the same 10 months a year earlier.
"This second $1 million for another year reflects the success of frequent bus service and we greatly appreciate the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet for authorizing this funding," said J. Barry Barker, executive director of TARC.
"The significant increase in ridership demonstrates that Louisville will embrace public transportation that is convenient and frequent," he said. "We have eased crowding on these routes and eliminated the need to check a schedule to know when a bus is arriving."
The two routes carry 30 percent of TARC's ridership - 15,500 passengers per day, 2,500 more than before the frequent service began on the core portions of the two routes. Two additional afternoon trips will be added, beginning Jan. 29, to Rt. 18 to alleviate overcrowding.
TARC received an initial $1 million last year in U.S. Department of Transportation Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program funds authorized by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to add service to the routes as part of a one-year demonstration project.
Barker was joined today by Mayor Greg Fischer, Congressman John Yarmuth and TARC Board Chairman Cedric Merlin Powell to announce the additional funding at a news conference at TARC's Union Station.
"Public transportation is vital for access to jobs and educational opportunities," Fischer said, noting that 70 percent of TARC passengers are going to and from work or school. "We're excited about the success of these routes and look forward to more and better public transportation service in Louisville."
Yarmuth said the federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program was established to help communities improve air quality and reduce traffic congestion.
"This is a win-win federal investment," Congressman Yarmuth said. "The more Louisvillians are able to choose the bus over a car, the cleaner our air will be. That means a healthier city and healthier citizens."
Passengers have told TARC the frequent service has made their lives and commutes easier.
Jeff Hipsher, a Highlands resident and student at Spalding University, said he rides the Broadway-Bardstown Road route daily. "It's a really easy way for me to get to school and work on time," he said. "Knowing the bus is arriving every 15 minutes makes it really easy for me and my morning routine."
Vic Miller, owner of Vic's Classic Bikes in the Highlands on Bardstown Road, also rides that route which is within a mile of his house.
"I can ride my bike from my house to the stop, put my bike on the front of the bus and it'll drop me off right in front of my store," he said. "In the afternoon, I know it's coming and I can hop on it in front of my store. Very convenient.'
More information:TARC website http://www.ridetarc.org/
TARC on Twitter http://www.twitter.com/ridetarcTARC on Facebook


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Hospital Birth vs. Home Birth: A Debate on Choices
Dr. Jay DiLeo, OB-GYN, with midwife advocate James Henderson, Esq.
When my wife and I chose to have our second child be born at home (our first child was born in a community hospital, not Brigham & Women's or Mass General, with the assistance of a certified nurse midwife), we reflected upon the safety issues, both among ourselves and with our midwife. Had there been any indication that something was out of the ordinary with the pregnancy, long before my wife went into labor, we understood that our midwife would transfer care to an OB in a premier hospital so that our child would be well-attended. Had there been a hint of a problem at any point in labor, our midwife would have packed us up and gone to the nearest appropriate facility. We weighed the likelihood of the need for a Cesarean section, or other interventive care, with the psychological and physical benefits of my wife being able to labor at home, and came to the personal conclusion that the benefits of staying home far outweighed the risks, particularly given the skill and experience of our midwife.
You state the following: "I do not feel people choose to home deliver out of ignorance or stupidity. In fact, such persons usually are more thoughtful and knowledgable of the whole process than your average hospital delivery parents." You have the opportunity to reach, through both your book and your work online, people who are thoughtful and knowledgeable enough to be presented with the facts about home birth, rather than the fear that is so evident in your new book. Please take advantage of that opportunity. Contrary to what you might think, I do not consider myself an advocate solely of home birth, but of making that option truly available to parents around the country through accurate information about midwifery care. If a mother, having been given full and fair information, feels that she will be most comfortable and safer by laboring and birthing in a hospital, then that is where she should be. The worst thing one could do is to have a mother labor and birth in place in which she does not feel safe and comfortable; I believe that anxiety is probably the most prominent "risk" facing any mother.
As I hope you can see, I am far more interested in intelligent discourse than calling you names.
Dr. DiLeo's Response
Certainly those who choose home birth are more passionate about their decision, for the typical hospital birth woman is merely going with the flow. Therefore I expect many more letters in support of home birth than hospital birth. It is tempting to interpret the number of responses each way as a vote of sorts, but that would be unfair to this discussion. I would like to think of this as a qualitative discussion, not a quantitative one. That being said, there are some initial comments I'd like to make.
First of all, that birth is a natural event is not the argument here. What has been gained in modern obstetrics is a reduction in neonatal mortality and maternal mortality. Also, comfort in the way of pain relief for those who choose to bypass discomfort. But what has been lost in modern obstetrics is the fact that it's not just a baby being born, but a family being born. This is the whole point of home birth, it is a "back to the hearth" event of significant importance as a family event. In my book, The Anxious Parent's Guide to Pregnancy, this is one of the points I emphasize the birth of the family as the highest pinnacle of mammalian evolution. It is for this
reason that I can easily see the value of home birth from a romantic, caring, humanistic, and loving point of view. But this doesn't mean that I accept it as just as safe as a hospital birth.
One of the misconceptions is that doctors who are anti-home birth are anti-midwife. I can't answer for all obstetricians, but I will say that I have absolutely no problem with midwifery. In fact, I respect the profession greatly. It was a midwife who trained me in the very first delivery I attended. I think that I still use her mindset and technique for deliveries today. Midwives are not saddled with competing responsibilities of post-operative patient care, waiting surgeries, and the myriad other things that obstetricians multitask while patients are in labor. This means midwives can be dedicated to a full labor participation. They are wizards at playing gravity to advantage, sensing the nuances of positioning so as to effect more efficient labor. I wish there were a midwife in every hospital OB delivery area, supervising the goings-on there.

subset: commoncrawl


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Researchers monitor continuing decline in seabirds
"You have to get up early for ducks," said Dave Nysewander, a trained biologist and project leader for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW). Last Friday he and his team of eight people were nearing the end of a three weeks project that involved trapping, measuring and tagging Scoters (rhymes with "motors"), a species of diving sea duck, in four areas of the Puget Sound basin, and after Olympia, Bainbridge Island and the Whidbey-Camano Island area, Birch Bay was to be their last stop.
Nysewander said that Scoters along with other species, such as Grebes, have shown significant declines in the past 25 years. The reason for this is complex, he said, but based on his survey data the DFW is fine-tuning its wildlife management practices to help preserve the remaining populations. The decline in available eel grass beds due to unregulated shoreline development may be one factor, he said, since Scoters feed on herring roe in the spring before migrating northward to breed in Alaska and Canada.
The DFW's 26-foot aluminum boat named "Harlequin" led a convoy of several smaller boats out of the Birch Bay Village marina at 4 a.m., well before dawn, to set out mist traps strung like invisible tennis nets between two poles mounted on floats that were molded like decoys. "The ducks fly shoreward before dawn," Nysewander explained, "and when they get tangled in the net then one of our smaller boats will retrieve it and bring it to our larger boat where it's put into a small animal carrier."
Once back at the marina, Nysewander patiently and gently measured each individual bird in the same way, holding it in his lap until it calms down. He weighed it, calling out "1,364 grams" (about three pounds) to Brad Otto, the record keeper for the day. He measured the culmen, or length of the bill, and its width, the tarsus (lower leg) and the chord of the wing, determined by measuring the ninth primary feather. On one bird he noticed a dislocated toe and made a mental note to point it out to the DFW's consulting veterinarian Dr. Briggs Hall.
Hall would be coming by in the late morning to surgically implant tracking transmitters in some of the ducks. "It's opened up a whole window of information for us," Nysewander explained, "and we're beginning to get some insights about where they go when they leave here." Last year 49 transmitters were implanted into White-winged and Surf Scoters in different areas of the Puget Sound basin. Twenty-five of the transmitters were small vhf units that broadcast "line of sight" to a receiver, meaning that to pick up the signal a researcher has to have an unobstructed view of the bird even if it's too far away to literally see. The receivers cost about $500 apiece and are usually detected by overflying aircraft.
other 24 ducks were fitted with $2,700 satellite transmitters
that can be tracked virtually anywhere, and have given
Nysewander and his team a graphic representation of where
the birds go once they leave our area and where they
nest. "They're
expensive, all right," Nysewander said, "and
we're anxious to get them back if people
find them."
Hall said that the implant operation is not particularly hard on the bird and takes "about 45 minutes per duck, give or take. We have one satellite transmitter that's about to take a ride on its third duck."
batteries in the units last through a season
because they're turned off most of the
time. "We'll
run them for six hours or so," Nysewander
said, "and
then turn them off for four to six days, especially
when the females are nesting up north." The
males, on the other hand, seem to take off once
the females are brooding, giving in to a kind
of duck wanderlust.
Several tracks showed males leaving the nesting grounds in northern Saskatchewan and heading straight for the Arctic Ocean, then to the Bering Sea before heading straight back to western Washington, almost as if they'd hitched a ride on Alaska Airlines.
"There's some interesting data," Nysewander said. "The Scoters all return to the same wintering areas where they were captured. When they go north to breed, 75 percent of the birds that originate in this area (Birch Bay) go to northern B.C. and then east into Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories, but if they come from the southern sound they tend to go to Alaska."
"After molting, females return to our area with the young birds in groups," he continued, "almost as if helping each other make the long journey through the mountains of B.C. The males are highly diverse in their behavior, eating what they can here and there." Nysewander explained that Scoters have a bill like a can opener "because that's what they do, pry shellfish out from underwater rocks, although one male Surf Scoter seems to be hooked on herring roe." The individual stayed in the northwest all year and never went north in the spring to the breeding grounds. It molted in Florence, Oregon, and then came back north to Olympia, then went back to the Oregon coast and continued down to Crescent City, California. He was essentially following the herring spawn all over Washington and Oregon before finally going north last spring.
One thing that Nysewander emphasized was the importance of the Cherry Point, Birch Bay and Semiahmoo eel grass beds for all the Scoters migrating through the area and for other sea birds as well. "The area from Boundary Bay south to Bellingham Bay is crucial," he said, "as the birds come here in the spring as a staging area prior to migrating north. If they don't get enough to eat then the stress of flying all the way to the breeding grounds and brooding can be too much."
Nysewander said that he's working on a beta version of a website where tracking data can be shown. Until then, he can be contacted at the Marine Bird and Mammal Component, Puget Sound Ambient Monitoring Program, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, 600 Capitol Way N., Olympia, WA 98501-1091. By telephone or email: 360/902-8134; nysewdrn@ dfw.wa.gov.


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GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (AP) — Bank branches in two small central Nebraska towns will be closing.
Nebraska State Bank & Trust says its Mason City and Octonto branches will be shuttered on June 30.
Grand Island Independent reports that bank
president Stuart Fox blamed the closures on a drop in the number of
Both branches had been Farmers Bank branches and were bought by Broken Bow-based Nebraska State Bank in 2008.


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school psychology program
What is a school psychologist?
A School Psychologist is a mental health professional, with broad and specialized training in both psychology and education, who provides psychological services using data-based problem-solving processes. As stated by our professional organization, the national Association of School Psychologists (NASP):
"School psychologists help children and youth succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. They collaborate with educators, parents, and other professionals to create safe, healthy, and support learning environments for all students that strengthen connections between home and school" (NASP, 2005).
The school Psychologist is licensed and/or certified to provide school psychological services. He or she brings skills in problem-solving, assessment, consultation, individualized academic and therapeutic interventions, primary prevention, and systems-level change to the schools and the larger community. The school psychologist is sensitive to and appreciative of diversity and maintains the highest standards of practice with a keen awareness of the legal and ethical implications of his or her work.
Thank you for your interest in the School Psychology program. The Counseling and School Psychology Department at Southern Connecticut State University offers two graduate programs. The Master of Science Degree in School Psychology is achieved after on full year of study (including full-time summer study). The Sixth Year Professional Diploma (a Specialist Level credential) follows the Master's Program and includes one year of full-time coursework followed by a year-long internship. The programs are designed to meet both the requirements for state licensure and national certification (NCSP). Graduates of the two programs will be prepared for employment as school psychologists in public schools or other related organizations and agencies.
The following information will outline the procedures for applying to the program, and answer some common questions asked by applicants. In addition to this material, applicants should obtain the most recent Graduate Catalog from the graduate school office (203-392-5240), and read and comply with all applicable university application and admission information.
Master of science degree in school psychology
The master's program is designed to be accessible to working students and classes will generally be offered on nights and/or weekends. Some classes will also contain web-based components of training.
Sixth Year Professional Diploma In school Psychology
The Sixth Year Professional Diploma program provides advanced professional study and training in the areas of counseling (individual and group), assessment (intellectual, achievement, and personality), consultation, and intervention. Within this program are two field experiences: a practicum and an internship. The practicum consists of approximately 400 hours (four days/week) in a school setting. The internship is an intense and diversified, 10 month experience consisting of no fewer than 1,200 hours. Both experiences are completed under the supervision of a certified school psychologist. This level of the program requires full-time study. The Sixth year Program also includes late afternoon, evening, and weekend coursework. However continuing outside employment is more difficult since students must complete their practice fieldwork during the school day. Currently students must complete the program on a full-time basis.
The combined master's and sixth year programs are designed to meet the requirements for certification as a school psychologist in Connecticut and most other states. The majority of our graduates also elect to qualify as nationally certified school psychologists.
See our program's Missions and Objectives here.


text:
Share your comments
The increment [sound recording] : a novel
Ignatius, David
Adult Fiction IGNATIU
Ignatius, David
Adult Fiction IGNATIU
What other readers are saying about this title:
nitetrain said:
The Increment is an apt description of the snail pace of this novel. Not a thriller with murderous, boring and disinterested charactors. 2 of 10 stars.
posted Jul 5, 2009 at 4:01PM
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text: Dragon Sunglasses at Tillys.com! Dragon Sunglasses Background: Established in 1993, Dragon is a leading eyewear brand in the youth/lifestyle market manufacturing premium sunglasses, snow goggles, and mx goggles. Drawing influences from our team riders, art, music, fashion and alternative culture, we strive to empower the individual with premium products.Since the beginning, Dragon set out to be the leading eyewear and accessories brand in the active youth lifestyle market by supporting the best athletes with the best product, while remaining connected to core retailers and consumers. That mission still holds true today and is the driving force behind the company's success and heritage. In 1993, in a garage in Capo Beach, CA, founder Will Howard aimed to build a company that encompassed his passions for surfing, snowboarding, and riding dirt bikes. Enthusiasm and knowledge of the market bore Dragon's first and still primary product, sunglasses. The company began distributing to local surf shops before expanding to Hawaii and Florida, and later Australia and other international markets.Dragon gradually extended its reach as well, developing innovative, diversified products in all eyewear categories. With an emphasis on creating functional, high-quality merchandise that appealed to the youth market and pushed the status quo, Dragon introduced a number of innovative products early on. "We saw an opportunity to add snow goggles to the lineup by aligning ourselves with the emerging snowboard market," says founder Will Howard. "We loved riding and realized snowboarders were treated as second-class citizens just like we were as a start-up, so we thought that would be a good match." From there, Dragon recruited snowboarders Jamie Lynn, Chris Roach, and a few others. Many years and many ride days later, Dragon has established itself as a leader in the snow goggle business. More recently, Dragon's innovative approach has lead to further market-leading developments, including the first-ever frameless snow goggle which launched in the winter of 2011. This goggle has revolutionized the snow market and is one of the most sought after styles at retail. Along with that, the latest Dragon sunglasses have showed design innovation and a unique styling like the JAM, Domo, and Viceroy. Rider-inspired design and feedback has always been key and one of the important philosophies of the brand in creating new products.This information is from the Dragon Alliance Facebook website.


text:
A political newcomer hopes to be the next Pike County sheriff- a position incumbent Sheriff Russell Thomas has held for 20 years and wants to keep.
The election was last night but the internet is still buzzing with reaction.
Alabama showed it's colors last night voting red in the presidential race and for top statewide leadership jobs.
Roy Moore was first elected to Chief Justice in 2000.


text:
San Diego, CA, US
I'm a current 5th year thesis undergrad at NewSchool of Architecture + Design.
I'm quick at learning new software and am very computer savvy; anything from hardware to software.
And of course, my strengths include freehand and drafting by hand as well. My mentors would adhere that I am very organized and time manage very well.
Unbuilt Studios, San Diego, Lead Visualization Artist
Conceptual development, 3D modeling via Sketchup/Rhino/3DS Max, Vray material and render setup, marketing, and post-production visualization.
NewSchool of Architecture + Design, San Diego, CA, US, BArch, Architecture
5th year Thesis Undergraduate
Presidential Scholarship, Scholarship
CalPoly Design Village '11, 2nd Place
2nd Place Best Overall
CalPoly Design Village '11, 3rd Place
3rd Place Livable Space
CalPoly Design Village '11, 1st Place
1st Place Structural Craftsmanship


text:
SAN ANTONIO (Reuters) - The San Antonio Spurs used an 11-2 run in the final three minutes to head into halftime of Game Four of the NBA Finals tied 49-49 with the Miami Heat.
Tony Parker shrugged off a mild right hamstring strain to score 15 points on 7-of-12 shooting for the Spurs, while Boris Diaw came off the bench to score seven of the Spurs' final 11 points of the half.
LeBron James, who vowed to make up for a horrendous 7-of-21 shooting performance in Miami's Game Three loss, had 15 points on 7-of-11 shooting for a Heat team seeking a second consecutive NBA championship.
The Spurs lead the best-of-seven series 2-1 with Game Five scheduled for Sunday in Texas.
(Reporting by Frank Pingue; editing by Julian Linden)


text:
note: I published this article today on daily5REMODEL, and remodelers and home performance pros are weighing in with some excellent responses. Feel free to post your response here, but please also post it on d5R if you want to be eligible for the prize, a signed and inscribed copy of the forthcoming book Green Building: Principles and Practices in Residential Construction, by Carl Seville and Abe Kruger. - Leah Thayer
What's Wrong with These Pictures? A Contest
Homes submitted for green certifications are, in theory, built to a higher standard than most. Or that's the intention.
"In most cases, the contractors want to do the right thing," according to Carl Seville, who took the photos below. "But between not fully understanding what needs to be done and not having adequate time to supervise and inspect the work, things go wrong."
Seville (in pink shirt, with Michael Anschel), a former remodeling contractor, longtime green building trainer, popular blogger and author, took all of these photos. Most, but not all, were in homes he had been asked to inspect for certification under LEED, EarthCraft and/or the NAHB Green Building Standard.
And he has a challenge for you.
Each photo demonstrates at least one sloppy and/or dangerous and/or excessive building practice. Describe these problems, using the comment area below, and you could win a signed and personally inscribed copy of the forthcoming book by Carl and Abe Kruger, Green Building: Principles and Practices in Residential Construction.
The publisher's price for the book is $99.95. It's a gift from Carl and d5R to you if you provide the best response. Carl will pick the winner. [note: comments must be postedon d5R to be eligible.]
image 1
image 2
image 3
image 4
image 5
image 6
image 7
Provide your answers below if you like, as well as on d5R to be eligible for the book. Identify which photos you're referring to, and remember to include your name if you wish to be identified.
Tip: Check out Carl's blog at Green Building Advisor -- and this post in particular for some of his building pet peeves.
Views: 277
As soon as its published...WHAT!
1]single top plate.
2]slopply foam job,shallow thickness
3]hole in the ductwork?
4]siding cut too low,terrible weave,water problems
5]bad valley work
6]reverse fall on attached roof
7]no flashing
Jon - Thanks for the comment. The problem with the foam is not that it's uneven, rather it's way too thin, only about 4"maximum. The strapping was done by the framer to even out a sloped ceiling with a duct chase (no thought given to duct location). SInce this house is in the south, thermal bridging is not much on people's minds, and in fact, it doesn't give us anywhere near the heat loss you get in extreme cold climates.
I think image 2 is more than uneven insualtion. It's open cell foam insulation and that always looks uneven. I think it is that they added strapping to the rafters to increase cavity depth and the ran the strapping parallel to the rafters when they had the chance to run it perpendicular and reduce thermal bridging through the rafters. I'll bet the foamer asked for that because it it faster to foam with the roof bays open than with strapping interrupting the bays every 16".
Image 5 is a classic- terrible water shed.
1 Definately not a job using advanced framing
2 Uneven insualtion with at least 1 area having minimal insualtion.
3 Hole in trunk line. What are they trying to do with the insulation
4 Water is funneled in to side of house due to valley
5 Another bad valley channeling water against the structure
6 Roof slopes back to structure
7 No flashing
Photo 1 has way more jack studs than required.
Photo 2 is under-insulated in the one rafter cavity.
Photo 3 someone left an unsealed hole in supply duct.
Photo 4, valley is running into side of house.
Photo 5, wood facia is running into roofing and gutter splash....most likely will rot out.
Photo 6. Overhang to left of support post is not cantilevered.....ladder construction used, will sag.
Photo 7, no sealing tape or flashing around brick mold.
© 2014 Created by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.


text:
Description:HP AMD Opteron 6176SE DL385 G7(2.3GHz/12-core/12MB/105W)Full Processor Option KitPart Number(s)Manufacturer Part# 585322-B21
Note: We ship Part# 585322-B21 with the appropriate Voltage Regulator Module (VRM) and Heat Sink.(The full Processor Option Kit)
Note: Newer Proliant servers have the VRM built into the system board. It is not replaceable and not included in the processor option kit.
CategoryProliant Processor
Sub-CategoryAMD Opteron
Part Number585322-B21
Products ID458045
Product TypeProcessor Kit
Processor TypeDodeca-Core
Clock Speed2.3GHz
HyperTransport Speed6400MHz
L1 Cache1.5MB
L2 Cache6MB
L3 Cache12MB
64-bit ProcessingYes
Process Technology45nm
Processor SocketSocket G34 LGA-1974
Input Voltage1.3 V DC
Thermal Design Power105W


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Factives happened.
Also: I don't care. Bye.
Factives happened.
Also: I don't care. Bye.
so is there shipping fanfiction/art yet of watchful-entity and melted-snowflake, or
You're welcome.
This looks disturbing, but in a good way! I love it! Thank you! :D
Okay I get how transethnicity is offensive but why is it always lumped in with Otherkin.
The offense of transethnicity is related to the systematic oppression of non-white people all over the world. But to my knowledge there has been no systematic oppression of werewolves and space elves and whatever else. Arguably there has been some on animals like pandas but I doubt they find otherkin particularly offensive, mostly because they are pandas.
What I'm trying to say is that until the Na'vi show up to say for themselves that otherkin are offending them, I'm not quite sure what the big deal is. If anyone wants to enlighten me, please feel free.
Because they're both ridiculous and have no logical basis at all?
"Pretending you're something you're not is okay as long as who/what you pretend to be is not real and sentient enough to get offended."
Because the factual truth behind otherkinnery/transethnicity entirely depends on whether someone gets offended.
I'm not talking about factual truth. I'm talking about emotions. I'm talking about the fact that these people are doing something that makes them happy, and they aren't hurting anyone, so being assholes to them doesn't make you clever or better. It just makes you an asshole.
Ridiculous beliefs/actions deserve to be ridiculed. Truth matters more than the emotions of some horribly misguided people.
It's your completely ignorant and uncaring opinion that they're not hurting anyone, especially themselves and the gullible/vulnerable folks who they're able to influence.
Okay I get how transethnicity is offensive but why is it always lumped in with Otherkin.
The offense of transethnicity is related to the systematic oppression of non-white people all over the world. But to my knowledge there has been no systematic oppression of werewolves and space elves and whatever else. Arguably there has been some on animals like pandas but I doubt they find otherkin particularly offensive, mostly because they are pandas.
What I'm trying to say is that until the Na'vi show up to say for themselves that otherkin are offending them, I'm not quite sure what the big deal is. If anyone wants to enlighten me, please feel free.
Because they're both ridiculous and have no logical basis at all?
"Pretending you're something you're not is okay as long as who/what you pretend to be is not real and sentient enough to get offended."
Because the factual truth behind otherkinnery/transethnicity entirely depends on whether someone gets offended.
Come skype with us.
Do iiiit.
Sorry, I'm a busy girl these days. (Or, at least, always too busy for otherkin.) Life needs taking care of.
But, should I acquire a microphone/webcam one day, and get my accent sorted out (to make sure I'm at least understandable in speech), you'll be the first person(?) I'll think of. ;D
In your other posts you said you wanted to skype with "haters"? Am I a "hater"? And are you sure you want to begin on such an awful note? Maybe I or others like me should ignore the invitation entirely if we don't consider ourselves "haters"?
I don't remember right now what I have said about you specifically (or things that I've said that you felt applied to you personally) — but please feel free to point out to me some things that I've said that I should be able to say again face-to-face. Even if we can't talk right now, at least I'll consider if I have said things that I wouldn't be able to repeat directly.
See also, this reply.
sheepdoge reblogged your post: Fin.
so long, okamp, you were a pain in my ass.
Glad to have served you right.
If otherkinnery has a place in social justice discussions, then it's only in so far as religions and other belief systems have place in them. And you're in luck, lots of liberals/SJ'ers actually care about religious diversity and freedom of religion (just look at how they all flock to defend Islam). So IMHO if you frame your kinnery in terms of a belief system (rather than in terms of personal identity*) then you might have better luck in the SJ circles plus people may view you as more honest/sensible than the average tumblrkin (because you'd be admitting that your experience is subjective and quite possibly has nothing to do with universal truth at all — but regardless of that you have the right to live with your beliefs).
(*Imagine if, say, a Christian phrased their beliefs in terms of identity. Imagine they said they identify as someone who is inherently Christian, that it can't ever change because it just can't and he has no choice at all because it's simply true, and imagine he should be allowed to do all the things his beliefs tell him without criticism because it is supposedly a part of his inherent identity.)
I think it's really sneaky and bastardly that some otherkin and plurals try to edge their way in as an identity group on par with other oft-mentioned identity groups (you know who I'm talking about), in order to have a slice of that attention and support that they receive. Problem is that you're not justified in receiving a comparable amount of support/understanding from the wide audience. Of course you want to think that you are, but you're not. As a group you're somewhere on par with various new religious movements, like the Raëlians. You deserve about as much special accommodation and outsiders "educating" themselves about your condition as they do.
Now why is that?
Obvious. Because you have no proof and your explanations are outside of this world. If you think your claims of your experiences should be enough then obviously you don't understand how the real world works. (People [the "wide audience"] should have more important concerns than things that can't even be verified as legitimate concerns.) Things like reincarnation, spirits or "co-consciousness" ("headmates"), and even species dysphoria (for the "psychological" otherkin) aren't even coming close to being considered real. They don't even sound likely.
I personally support reincarnation research and looking further into things like species dysphoria and whatever other things that may explain some people's claims. Not that I really believe we might get some positive results but it would be closed-minded not to try at all. Everything is possible, after all. Just some things are more likely to be possible than others, and we don't actually have a shortage of likely explanations for certain otherkin and plural claims.
Anon, turn around slowly.
For draven/wyrmsyn: I think most otherkin don't. And besides that, I want to remind everyone, you can of course have opinions about Harris, but you need to keep in mind that he has nothing to do with what's going on here. He isn't actually here. There's just some manchild who pretends to be a psychic medium.
Speaking of which, here's another reminder for Karkles to give a call to Mr. Randi. Come on, man, a million dollars, how can you say no? Plus you can prove to the world what amazing powers there exist. You've "shown" us how your characters walk around in different people's heads plus you're communicating with someone who's dead. That's like totally amazing so why not prove it? Hmm?
I will absolutely rethink my relationship with someone, or criticize someone's identity if they are doing something, or identifying in a way that is actively harmful.
And I think that's the problem in the Karkat situation. Eric Harris was a harmful person. That Karkat's Reb has not apologized, pushed to make amends or or otherwise made it clear that he understands that the things he did continue to have a painful impact to this day makes me uncomfortable to the point that—yes, in my opinion, if it's possible for Karkat to ask him to leave, Karkat SHOULD.
You're approaching this the wrong way. Having Harris as a headmate does not magically make a person more harmful than he already was. Because, get this, he does not ACTUALLY have THE Eric Harris in his head. It's an act, or fake in any case. Karkles has absolutely no right to speak, even make "apologies" or "amends", on Harris' behalf — BECAUSE HE LITERALLY HAS ABSOLUTELY NOTHING TO DO WITH HIM. Making any "true" claims about Harris at all is offensive or at least disturbing as fuck considering that people who were affected by Harris' actions are real live people.
And I don't understand why I even have to say this stuff to anyone, it should be obvious.
People thinking their opinion of me was ever relevant. I was just trying to avoid the otherkin wrath in the early days, but this little project here is pretty much completed so it doesn't matter anymore.
Also do note that it was specifically the so-called factives that caused the change of atmosphere here. If I'm openly hating on anyone, it's the factives, (not every single otherkin and multiple). What they're doing is unacceptable and that's not even up to debate.
You're only proving what a toxic community this is by choosing to ignore the factive bastards (and all the other problematic users) and deciding to "disapprove" of me instead — for daring to point this stuff out. Go on, shun me all you want. Excommunicate me. Tar me without any actual arguments. Keep acting more and more cult-like, this is exactly what I need to prove my point.
Here's a quick post on multiplicity (and otherkin) and their disparaging view on critical thought. Just in the Tumblr tags today I read these words:
"Think things through before you judge people. We plurals and 'kin should especially understand that we have to stick together."
Multiples and otherkin have grown up inside a community that values blind acceptance above all else.
Below the cut I discuss just how and why multiple systems (and otherkin) are promoting a dangerous community. Here's the gist of it for those looking for a quick reblog:
Under multiplicity's laws you can be whomever you wish. There is no standard, no baseline, no rules to ever be broken, no taboos. This is why the community is addictive and harmful: you will never be questioned on who you are or why. If you are engaging in dangerous behavior or belief systems you will never be questioned on it, and that breeds not only a disconnect from reality, but a disconnect from what is right and wrong.
[insert alternate timelines/universes excuse here]
I checked the K's blog again and, honestly, none of their excuses or explanations matter, like no one should even be playing along anymore — it's very obvious that they're consciously lying. It's disgusting, really.


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|Excellent - 87 reviews
Overall Rating - Excellent - 87 reviews
Excellent 10.0
Extremely nice staff, very helpful to us since we werent from around there.
No i loved it.They have the North Pole theme throughout the inside of each room. I found it very charming and it put us in great spirits! I am very particular about cleanliness and the room was great as well as the bathrooms. Very well kept. And the staff was extremely friendly and helpful.
|Excellent - 2 reviews
With a stay at The Pines Inn Lake Placid in Lake Placid, you'll be convenient to Lake Placid Center for the Arts and Lake Placid. This inn is within close proximity of Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails and Mirror Lake. Make yourself at home in one of the 35 air-conditioned guestrooms. Conveniences include phones, and housekeeping is provided daily. Enjoy the...
Overall Rating - Excellent - 2 reviews
Excellent 8.6
The Pines Inn is a cozy place to stay! It's right around the bend on the top of the hill on Main Street, so you're never too far away from the restaurants/bars/gift shops. The staff is friendly and we had no trouble getting to our room. Overall, a good place to stay!
As triathletes, we would have loved a mini fridge in our room. But other than that, no complaints!
|Excellent - 1 reviews
Excellent 10.0
Our room was perfect, having the kitchen was really great so you didn't have to go out to eat for every meal. We also enjoyed the pool and outdoor space. We were there for a tournament so it was nice to spend time with everyone else there for that as well. Can't wait to go back.
|Excellent - 1 reviews
With 25 units, the Town House Lodge is conveniently located within easy walking distance of the Olympic Center, Main St. shopping, restaurants and activities. We offer a variety of comfortable room types at everyday prices to accommodate you, your family and friends while visiting the Adirondack Park in New York
|Excellent - 134 reviews
Overall Rating - Excellent - 134 reviews
|Excellent - 255 reviews
With a stay at The Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid, you'll be near the beach and convenient to Lake Placid Center for the Arts and Lake Placid. This 4.5-star resort is within close proximity of Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails and Lake Placid Winter Olympic Museum. Make yourself at home in one of the 94 guestrooms, featuring kitchens with refrigerators and st...
Overall Rating - Excellent - 255 reviews
Excellent 10.0
Outstanding service, great facilities, nice rooms, and all around fun place.
Not a single complaint about the hotel or its facilities. Beyond their control: Canadians who want to use their cell phones are out of luck. Cell reception is unusable.A fantastic stay, highly recommend. The facilities are excellent, and Lake Placid itself is great with lots to do. The level of customer service here is far and away the best. A BIG thank you to everyone from the housekeeping staff to the valets/doormen and maintenance staff who consistently go the extra mile. The food is OK, not great, but the exceptional service makes up for any shortcomings. If you, like us, are contemplating between High Peaks and Whiteface Lodge, we have now stayed at both and can give a resounding recommendation: stay at Whiteface Lodge. It's well worth it.
|Mediocre - 1 reviews
Searching for convenient motel rates in Lake Placid? Take a look at Woodlake Inn! This motel has its own restaurant serving lunch and dinner where you will find a selection of items to try. Free Wi-Fi is provided so you can check your in-box whenever you like
Overall Rating - Mediocre - 1 reviews
Mediocre 3.3
The location is the only redeeming quality.
The room was in poor shape with many things broken including the heat. We were kept up all night by drunk guests, after calling the desk with no results, we finally had to call the police due to the noise.
|Excellent - 10 reviews
Overall Rating - Excellent - 10 reviews
|Good - 2 reviews
With a stay at Northwoods Inn in Lake Placid, you'll be minutes from Lake Placid Winter Olympic Museum and Olympic Center. This lodge is within close proximity of Mirror Lake and Adirondack Equine Center. Make yourself at home in one of the 92 air-conditioned guestrooms. Your room comes with a Tempur-Pedic bed. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps yo...
Overall Rating - Good - 2 reviews
Mediocre 3.6
Was chosen because of cheap price but I would never stay again. It wasnt even worth it for cheaper price.
Staff was unprofessional and rude. When arriving late at 2am they were in the back counting money chatting and came out for a minute and went back talking and laughing while myself and 3 others waited for service. She had no information about parking. said she was only around at night and didnt know anything about day time. Wouldnt let us know about late check out. said we had to call desk after 7am to find out. Parking lot was dangerous and over full so we had to go down the road to park and pay in the morning. Hotel was not clean and very old broken down looking.
Excellent 8.6
Nice place, well worth the money. Can use updating but than again it has the rustic look that Lake Placid is known for
Lack of Parking
|Excellent - 1 reviews
With a stay at High Peaks Resort, you'll be centrally located in Lake Placid, convenient to Mirror Lake and Lake Placid. This 4-star hotel is within close proximity of Lake Placid Winter Olympic Museum and Olympic Center. Make yourself at home in one of the guestrooms featuring refrigerators and MP3 docking stations. Rooms have private patios. Flat-screen te...
Excellent 10.0
Great style and immaculately kept. Perfect location. Great views. We loved it!
|Excellent - 63 reviews
Overall Rating - Excellent - 63 reviews
|Good - 2 reviews
With a stay at Lake Placid Summit Hotel / Resort and Suites, you'll be centrally located in Lake Placid, convenient to Mirror Lake and Lake Placid. This ski hotel is within close proximity of Lake Placid Winter Olympic Museum and Olympic Center. Make yourself at home in one of the 90 air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators and microwaves. 32-inch LCD t...
Overall Rating - Good - 2 reviews
Good 6.6
The rooms were a good size. Everything is in walking distance in the village.
rooms in desperate need of updating. Bathroom so small that you have to turn sideways to close door, a large person would have great difficulties. Sink is in the room itself so no privacy in brushing teeth or quick wash. The bar entrance is straight across from elevator so children have clear view of the bar and some patrons. Although I accompanied my girls, the bars location makes it impossible for teens to go to pool without being goggled at by patrons with drinks in their hands. Its just not family oriented.
|Excellent - 335 reviews
Overall Rating - Excellent - 335 reviews
|Good - 175 reviews
A stay at Spruce Lodge Bed & Breakfast & Guest Cottage places you in the heart of Lake Placid, convenient to Olympic Center and Lake Placid. This ski bed & breakfast is within close proximity of Lake Placid Winter Olympic Museum and Adirondack Equine Center. Make yourself at home in one of the 7 individually decorated guestrooms. Private bathrooms with showe...
Overall Rating - Good - 175 reviews
Mediocre 3.0
Charged extra money contrary to norms - we were two adults and one child in a deluxe room. But I was suddenly told by the owner that I need to pay extra for the child. This is something I have never heard of in any hotel.Breakfast timings are unsuitable and inflexible. So, the free breakfast can not be availed of by most people if they plan to step out of the hotel before 8 AM. There is no facility to even make an early morning cup of coffee or tea. I paid almost as much as a regular hotel (after paying extra for the child) but did not get any facility except a place to sleep and shower in.
Good 7.0
Accessibility - it is right off the main road and is easy to locate
Beds were not that comfy..very soft and springy. the whole bed would shake if you moved.It's value for money!
|Excellent - 8 reviews
Step inside our historic 11 room luxury inn on Main Street only 3 blocks from downtown Burlington. Our inn features cozy rooms with our signature homemade breakfast, free parking & Wi-Fi included in your room rate
Overall Rating - Excellent - 8 reviews


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Today in League of Legends, I played against a team that was all bruisers. I figured they were either all top or feed, or they were pre-made (normal game) and were doing shenanigans. Shenanigans it was as they were all mid. Unfortunately for me, my team did not know how to handle an all mid bruiser team. Hopefully some people will read and understand how to win against such a team. Continue reading
Lobby and Champion Select
Some of you might be aware of this thread on the League of Legends forum. Riot employee Lyte is asking the community to discuss about ways to fix the Lobby and Champion Select. I noticed the thread way too late and instead of hoping someone will notice my post, I would post my ideas here.
I would like to start by saying that what I will share is to be applied for ranked solo/duo queue only. Ranked teams won't need this system for obvious reasons and normal queue (blind/draft) shouldn't be forced under the current meta and should be the land to experiment with if the team agrees (or if you have a premade of 4-5 players). Continue reading
[Review] NHL Gamecenter Live
With our national sport back after a lockout that lasted way too long (113 days too long), it was time for me to figure out how to view this season's games. I had cancelled my TV bundle back in December and I had to check if there was a way to watch my team's games reliably. After checking the pricing to hook up the TV again against the online options, I went with the online option since it was much cheaper. Thus begins my journey watching hockey on NHL Gamecenter Live. Continue reading
1 year later…
Wow! Over a year without touching this! I should get some kind of award… of laziness.
Anyway, I plan on using this to document my LoL game and improvement as well as random music I found interesting. And to start things I will introduce LoL and what I do with it as well as a little top 8 of songs/albums I've discovered in 2012. Why 8? Because I have bad memory and I can only recall 8 of them. Continue reading
Help stop SOPA/PIPA from ruining the Internet as we know it
I can't believe I didn't post anything about this sooner but here it is.
The Internet has been flooding with posts, articles and blogs about SOPA/PIPA over the past few months. I do think the medias are finally catching on to this (finally) and people are starting to get informed. SOPA/PIPA, the bills that could destroy the internet as we know it today needs to be stopped.
But what is SOPA/PIPA? Continue reading
Proleague is upon us – My Fantasy Proleague draft
With the new Broodwar Proleague around comes a new season of Fantasy Proleague (FPL). This year I took some time to properly build my team unlike last year where I knew almost nothing. With the format change, the teams and players moving around, it was somewhat harder to pic my team, but I still manage to pick up a decent team… I think.
Note: This article was written before I was able to see this weekend's Proleague games. Continue reading
SC2: Ars October Tournament is here!
It's that time of the month again, time where all the cool Ars people face off in an epic tournament for honor and glory. "Where was September?", you might ask… We took a break, we really wanted to be at the top of our form to be able to watch the epic OSL finals… OK, I lied, that was just me. Anyway, we dropped the ball for September, nobody really saw the topic, I didn't cross-post to ArsClan forums and IRC and the result was that a less than ideal number of players signed up.
After a poll and some waiting, we finally got the date for the next Ars Tournament: October 22nd 3pm EDT. Check out at the end of this post for all the details. Continue reading


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Point Break Johnny Utah ShirtProduct Sku: PBRK001
$ 20.00
- This Johnny Utah Shirt shows a silhouette of a surfer in a 70s style surfer shirt with the line "the name's Johnny Utah". This is a reference to the 90s surfer / bank robber film Point Break. Ry likes this shirt because he once infiltrated a group of pick up soccer game players who would play ding dong ditch in his neighborhood.
Size Width (A) Length (B) Small 18.5" 27" Medium 19" 29" Large 23" 29" XL 23.5" 30.5" 2XL 26" 31.5"
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- • Product Type: T-shirts
• Color: Faded Lemon
• Gender: Mens
• Graphic: Screen Print
Distressed refers to the worn appearance in the image or lettering on a garment. A distressed print may include faded areas, missing color, or other irregularities. This is an intentional occurrence in the product and adds to the vintage look of the design.• Tag Location: TaggedThis t-shirt features a traditional fabric tag with sizing and composition information located on the back neck seam inside the shirt.
• Made of: 60% Cotton/40% Polyester
• Fits like: True To Size
• Fabric Softness: StandardT-shirts of STANDARD SOFTNESS are composed of traditional material and are considered to be your standard weight classic T-shirts.


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This journal is no longer active; do not follow it.
I will not respond to any asks, submits, etc.
I am keeping it as a reference, both to myself and to others.
Good bye.
I will not respond to any asks, submits, etc.
I am keeping it as a reference, both to myself and to others.
Good bye.
LOL at the gif.
butyoudunmeanitIamlameveryverylame.>: ))
You and several other cubs would agree to that, scrap wood.
But am I bovvered, though?
I say…
Well, you're pretty late to the party; heard that one already.
Try again, scrap wood.
Dick Gumshoe - Daring Detective!
Someone fund this, NOW!
Oh…that would be amusing.
((I would buy like 10 copies. I am not kidding.))
Iris' will to resist her sister, to remain herself, suddenly burst in full power, forcing Dahlia's spirit out of her body immediately. Dahlia was flown backwards through the wall, though she crept back out of it, ready to begin again…
but she couldn't. Without a vessel, she could do nothing. Her medium was dead, and Maya Fey too strong. But Iris?!? How…?!
It seems…I…!! Urgh!!
She screamed and vanished into thin air, leaving Machi's ragged breathing as the only sound.
Lang was silent, that thought was quite possibly the scariest thought he could ever be faced with, not including either endings to that same train. But he couldn't — wouldn't back down, not if Dahlia was involved. And especially when Iris needed him here with her. His hand enclosed itself around hers protectively.
He believed in her. She could do this. His hand pressed a bit tighter, but not quite so much as to hurt her, You can do this Iris. I know you can, Lang ran over a prayer in his head, just to be safe.
Come on. Come on, come on.
Once he heard Dahlia's scream of defeat, and her eventual disappearance, he relaxed, although his hand didn't release itself from its hold on Iris' hand. Lang smiled when he looked at her face, and put his palm on top of the side of her face as he looked into her eyes.
Are you alright, Iris? He asked, his face fairly close to hers before he simply took her in a hug. He was so relieved, even if a voice in the back of his mind was saying that he was stepping out of bounds. Iris was still…Daryan's.
(Source: wolfofinterpol)
Dahlia watched Lang intently as he dialed the phone until her vision completely turned black. She raised her head and spoke softly.
I win…
Her body thrashed violently for a moment, and she was still.
For a long time, the blood-drenched room was silent.
But the small sound of a girlish laugh echoed through the room, growing louder and louder as it pealed from the medium's body. The blue spirit flame engulfed the medium, and Dahlia's tainted spirit manifested itself.
Heehee! Well, that was fun.
He largely ignored the show Dahlia's death had performed, but bared his canines at Dahlia in response to her claiming that she had won. You're lucky that the anon was here before me. He should've known something was up. He really should've known…
And in the blessed silence, he closed his eyes and exhaled a breath he hadn't known he was holding in. It was quiet now; he'd have to work quickly to keep the injured alive, though he did ask Iris if she and the stranger were alright before he turned to the pressing matter at hand..
Lang went into action, blocking bloodflow as best he could, hoping that he could at least keep them alive until the paramedics arrived. He was silent, focused on that task.
At the sound of Dahlia's voice, he merely rolled his eyes and kept his attention on Machi. Hey, if you can hear me, blink your eyes once.
(Source: wolfofinterpol)
As she tried to speak, blood burbled from her lips. At least Dahlia could smile as she watched Lang's handsome face twist in horror.
Hee…hee~ Welcome…Mr. Wolf…
Too…late…! Ahaha..haha!
She choked; the knife had done its job well. She could hold on for another few minutes, maybe.
The horror washed away quick; he'd have to be calm — he couldn't panic, though concern was hard to hide when he looked down at Iris, and by extension, Machi, a stranger, and the anon he had faced just a few weeks ago, if that. He wasn't afraid, however. Even if Dahlia wasn't harmed… He just needed to get them to stay alive and to the hospital.
Like you're one to talk, cub. He smirked down at the injured murderess despite the anger and worry, and a whole mess of other emotions that inhabited his body at the moment. Either way, he'd have to call for an ambulance, and quick. But Dahlia… Ngh. Could she move? He doubted it, but she had surprised him before. It didn't matter now, he'd have to be cautious if any of the injured where going to make it out alive.
Try to cover their wounds until an ambulance arrives. She's not going to last long. His voice was calm, despite the gears turning and grinding for anything to grasp and hold on to, to keep Dahlia in her place while he focused on calling the emergency center. Even if it meant blood on his hands, he'd force her to stay where she was.
Lang was tempted to act on his instints, to tear Dahlia apart, limb from limb, but someone—or something— had already beaten him to it, but didn't finish the job.
Don't tempt me, cub…, was his only thought as he reached for the phone, and checked the dialtone, hoping that there was one. If not, this already terrible situation might get worse…
(Source: wolfofinterpol)
Lang was worried, the fear and anger dwelled in his eyes despite the usual expression on his face as he made the rounds in the coffee shop, and checked every nook and cranny for any possible leads or clues of Dahlia's presence — anything that would lead him to Iris, or, for that matter, Dahlia.
Unfortunately, there wasn't much, if anything, to go on in there; certainly nothing that would've lead to either Dahlia or Iris. His hands went to his temples as he wracked his brains to trying to find out any lead—anything that he could latch on to and pull her back to him—safety. Or possibly rip Dahlia a new one, just so long as he could find Iris in one piece, or alive, he'd be satisfied—
Wait. Lang hesitated in his steps as he exited the coffeeshop, and looked down. There were familiar shoeprints around him; he vaguely recognized the designs they made, but… he knew it was a long shot, but he'd take it. He only hoped that this was a good decision…
He worked through the prints, not wasting time once a pair weren't relavent to his search, and finally came up with satisfactory results that lead to the apartment complex right around the corner.
I'm coming, Iris. Just hang in there! Lang thought as he worked his way to Dahlia's apartment. "Iris? Are you alright? Can you hear me?" He asked every couple of steps, walking hurriedly through the apartments, but he was cautious. She could be anywhere,and that went double for Dahlia…


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How Apple gets all the good Apps
It may not be enough to justify choosing an iPhone or iPad. But if you do, you can still enjoy many of the key apps from other big makers of mobile platforms.
I'd also say that it is the consistency of the Hardware which may make it easier to develop for the iOS platform.


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Getty Images
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - MAY 17: Attendees wear Google Glass while posing for a group photo during the Google I/O developer conference on May 17, 2013 in San Francisco, California. Eight members of the Congressional Bi-Partisan Privacy Caucus sent a letter to Google co-founder and CEO Larry Page seeking answers to privacy questions and concerns surrounding Google's photo and video-equipped glasses called "Google Glass". The panel wants to know if the high tech eyeware could infringe on the privacy of Americans. Google has been asked to respond to a series of questions by June 14. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)


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Eric Church
Jason Aldean, Eric Church Speak Out About 2014 Fatalities at Country Concerts
In a new interview with Rolling Stone Country, Jason Aldean and Eric Church open up about the fatalities at recent country shows.
Eric Church Announces Wisconsin GRAMMY Benefit Concert
Eric Church will hit the road for a world tour supporting his latest release The Outsiders beginning this week.
Eric Church, Wife Launch Chief Cares Charity
Eric Church is teaming up with his wife Katherine to launch their own charity called Chief Cares.
George Strait's Final 'Cowboy Rides Away' Show Gets Live Album Release
On Sept. 16, King George will release 'The Cowboy Rides Away: Live from AT&T Stadium' album which will include 20-tracks performed during his last performance on June 7 live in Texas.
Watch Eric Church Play a Beer Delivery Guy in 'Cold One' Music Video
Eric Church's new music video for "Cold One" stars a beer delivery guy, because sometimes it's OK to go the obvious route.
10 Country Songs About Nostalgia and The Good Ol' Days
From the pain of a George Jones classic and the simple joys of the Judds, on up to the determination of Dierks Bentley to move ahead even as he 'holds on,' these ten songs show different shades of nostalgia in contemporary country music.
2014 CMT Awards: Backflips, Paint Wars and Guest Crossovers Take Over Nashville
Popping up from the stage, FGL took over with "This Is How We Roll" with Luke Bryan and surprise guest Jason Derulo. As the song wrapped, Derulo and his crew of dancers transitioned into "Talk Dirty" with FGL and Bryan dancing along.
Eric Church Talks Ticket Scalpers: 'I Hate 'Em'
"If it was an even playing field I wouldn't be as passionate as I am. But it's not. They have companies. They've got 100 of these bots that are always probing."
Eric Church at Stagecoach: 'I'm Just Trying to Have Some Fun'
During his Friday night show at Stagecoach Music Festival, Eric Church mixed old and new material in what he called an "exploration process" for his upcoming world tour. See the full Eric Church Stagecoach setlist.
Eric Church to Release 'The Outsiders' Vinyl for Record Store Day
Eric Church fans will soon be able to add his No. 1 album, The Outsiders, to their vinyl collections. The Outsiders vinyl will include two bonus tracks and an exclusive album poster.
Watch: Eric Church Covers the Allman Brothers Band's 'Ain't Wastin' Time No More'
"He tore that up," Gregg Allman told Radio.com about Church's performance. Watch the video now.
Eric Church to Launch 'The Outsiders World Tour' in September
Eric Church's 'The Outsiders World Tour' will kick off Sept. 11 in Bossier City, La., and will include special guest Dwight Yoakam on all dates as well as Brandy Clark, Brothers Osborne and Halestorm throughout select dates.
Watch Eric Church's 'San Destino Rising: Movimiento De Dos' Short Film
The 19-minute film elaborates on the previous characters he's introduced in both his music videos and album previews for his latest album, 'The Outsiders.'
Eric Church, Toby Keith, Lady Antebellum with Stevie Nicks Added as ACM Awards Performers
Nicks, Church, Keith and Lady Antebellum are the latest round of performers announced for the upcoming Academy of Country Music Awards on April 6.
Watch Eric Church Continue 'The Outsiders' Saga With New Video for 'A Man Who Was Gonna Die Young'
Church advised that fans pay attention to the characters in each music video, because they are part of a much longer storyline.
Watch Eric Church's Mysterious 'San Destino Rising: Movimento De Una' Video
"Throughout this entire album, that storyline will continue to play out and the ending is quite remarkable. We'll get to that one day," Eric Church said.


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You're leaving Wedding Paper Divas to see the Deal of the Day at our parent site, Tiny Prints.
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"We ordered these save the dates and they were perfect. The customer service kept in touch with us sending proofs and made changes we asked for promptly. When they arrived they were even better than pictured. Also, our designer sent a personal note to us after and that was an awesome touch!"
"This card exceeded all my expecatations. I got it for a GREAT price.. and the quality was outstanding!! Plus it shipped quickly. excellent service ! I would highly recommend using this company and will continue using them in the future! :) thank you!"
"I was able to personalize the product so easy! My pictures were not of great quality because I used two from my phone but they came out gorgeous!! The paper was perfect! Everyone one of my guests said that it was different and unique and loved the rustic homey feel! My aunt actually wants to buy a set for her daughters wedding! I would high recommend this item!!!!! The designer was great to deal with! Answered me back right away with changes!!"
"I absolutely loved the "SAVE THE DATES" they are so clean and crisp very professional looking. You also can't beat the price for them either. This really made me feel like my day is more real and getting closer to being a reality more me."
"So many Save the Date cards to chose from--once we decided and placed the order, we were not disappointed--the cards look beautiful and turned out just the way we wanted them to look. Next step will be ordering similar Invitations as we really like this design."


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So Good To See You Again: The Things You Miss Most
I've been traveling a bit more than usual, and each time I return home there are certain things I'm thrilled to see (besides the fact that my plants are still alive)...
- I'm shocked to say it, thinking of myself as more of a old-fashioned country-type girl, but it's so great to have access to my very own computer when I return home. I ignore the internet while visiting friends & family, so the abundance of design blog updates and Facebook action is like an all-out junk food fest. It's nice to once again feel connected to the world at large, after happily immersing myself in the far-flung parts of my own little world.
- Ah, the joy of showering at home. All your preferred toiletries right at hand, no grappling with how to turn the water on/off, your long-perfected temperature setting, towels that are all yours!
- And then, after a marathon day of traveling, your very own bed in which to collapse. A beloved mattress, excellently worn-in sheets, and plenty of pillows made for reading, sleeping, & dreaming.
What parts of your apartment do you greet most fondly when you return from travel?
Images: Tess Wilson
19 Comments
A nice variety of clothes and shoes, not packed in a suitcase.
My two old cats. And the comfort of my own kitchen that's stocked with the tea I like and my favorite mugs.
i love having my toiletries all put away, particularly those in the medicine cabinet. and my own cable television where i know all the channels!
I miss the living room. We've got a big comfy couch facing a wall of windows with an incredible view across town and out to the sea. The bookshelves are well stocked so it's my favorite place to spend an afternoon.
I just got back from a month trip in Europe last night and am surprised to be so happy to be back in LA. Definitely missed my very comfy bed, plants, internet, bathroom, kitchen tools and cookware, TV with Netflix, ....
There's nobody to make my bed or take my clothing to the laundry and rehang them in the closet for me.
My apartment doesn't have a jacuzzi tub - and when the bubbles spill over from the tub, there's nobody to clean up after me and provide fresh towels and toiletries twice a day.
The water faucets are actually easier to work elsewhere - and you never run out of hot water in a hotel or a ship.
The bartenders and waiters don't remember my preferences much less my name at the bars and restaurants I frequent at home.
There's nobody to make my meals for me at home and no Room Service - and my options at home are limited by what I have in the fridge or cupboard.
Fewer TV channels and expensive internet means I spend more time at the pool, reading on deck or exploring the real world rather than the virtual one.
My bed isn't turned down at night with a chocolate on the pillow at home...
...and when I wake up in the morning, my bedroom is in the same place as the night before.
Given the choice, I'd much rather be aboard a ship.
I miss my kitchen most of all - I like having my own cookware and tools, my tiny spoons and oversize mugs, and of course, my favourite foods.
@bepsf: Hi! All the things you've said are pretty right, but if you're out of your home for some days and really don't have a nice feeling when you get back, then I think you should do something with it. It's your private nest!!
By the way, what I miss the most when I'm out of home is always my bed, with my bright coloured sheets and all my little pillows. And I miss my piano too. I don't often play it, but I feel better when I know it's right there waiting for me. :-)
@bepsf - I went into my favorite bar last night after a week or two away to see that they MOVED EVERYTHING. It was like the Twilight Zone. Gave me the heebie-jeebies.
I've spent some time living on a ship. It is possible to run out of hot water, and really un-fun when it happens. *shrugs* But then you strap on your SCUBA gear and get in the water and suddenly, everything's okay again.
I think the thing I miss the most is my car. Typically, when I travel, I'm with someone else with more cargo space or better gas mileage than me and my Jeep. It's nice to get back, load my stuff into my car, and drive around for a little bit to unwind before going home to my demanding-ass cat.
Our home ocean and the English language are my top two things I miss, every time we leave for a couple months. Right after those is a real American shower, bagels, and tacos.
Cooking for myself. Different shoes. Our friends. Our bikes. The smell of our house. Our art.
My toddler's full spectrum of books!
My own kitchen, full of perfectly sharpen knives and pans that don't have all the non stick coating flaking off.
My own bed with soft warm thick blankets and comfy pillows. Ahhhh. :)
My cat!!!!! <3
@bepsf- true, but home is where the heart is! you need to make home a happy place : )
I definitely miss my cat, my bed, and my favorite home cooking!
My bed, my bike (can't live without it), my cats and, if I was in the countryside, the smell of a big city.
My bed! There's nothing like sleeping in your own bed that is calming.
Beyond that, my fridge that holds the things I like, my shower with my towels (and no time limit like it can get staying with family), etc.
If I'm at a hotel and come home, my couch is one of the first things I gravitate towards since I definitely missed having somewhere to it beyond the bed or an uncomfy chair.
@bepsf - I know the feeling, and would love to be on a ship right now too! I love home, but there is something to be said about a vacation that can make you feel like you have a home away from home.
My own bed, sharp knives and the peace and quiet of my own garden!
My cats


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It occurred to me today, looking at my desktop calendar, that we're exactly 6 weeks from January 1, a day many of us probably used to set our "goals" for the year. (Otherwise known as New Year's Resolutions!) I'm sure any social scientists in the Crew can tell us that most people fall off the resolution bandwagon in, what, 2 to 3 weeks. I know that's when you start to see the beginning- of- the- year crowds thin at the gym.
So, at 6 weeks, are you where you thought you would be on January 1?
If you are, good for you. How have you powered through? And, if you're not, how do you plan to readjust and get going again?
For me, I had specific page goals for my new book . Am I there, 6 weeks in? No, I'm behind in the total page count. But on the flip side, I think conceptually, I'm way ahead of where I thought I'd be. The story is coming together fairly well and I have an overall creative concept that I'm really happy with but it did take a few weeks extra to get there. I had to do some research, play around with ideas in my head, try out a few pages. It wasn't some creative flash that sparked a writing rampage. It was slow, steady work but when I got there, I knew it was right for the story. So, I'm at ease reassessing the quantity of my page count goal because I think the quality is high.
I don't believe in beating myself up over work not done. It's not productive in any way. In fact, it can be really counter-productive, causing you to give up all together or feel trapped in an endless cycle with no forward progress. ( Raise your hand if you start a diet every Monday because you "blew it" the previous Friday?) Life happens and expectations can be re-set. Moving forward is the key for me, not regretting what I didn't do last week, but buckling down to get the work done the next week.
On that note, I'm moving forward. Back to the book. How about you?
Embracing my Chaos, Lian
Need motivation? Catch up on Do the Work Wednesdays with these Related Posts:
Do the Work Wednesday #2: Getting Started


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3 Healthcare Stocks to Keep an Eye On
Chris is a member of The Motley Fool Blog Network -- entries represent the personal opinion of the blogger and are not formally edited.
Editor's Note: This article has been modified to correct the spelling of Soliris.
The healthcare industry is slowly becoming what the pre-crash technology industry was of the early 2000's. The emergence of new technologies in medicine, an aging working population, and retiring baby boomers are all expected to provide tremendous growth to the industry over the next several decades.
Many companies will inevitably capitalize on this growth, creating excellent investing opportunities for investors. For the next 20 years, nearly 10,000 people will turn 65 everyday -- a rate never seen in history, and by 2050, the number of people over the age of 60 will increase by nearly 300%, according to the US Census Bureau. The following healthcare stocks are positioned to take advantage of this change in demographics and are showing promising signs of growth in both, the near and short-term.
Hitting gold
On June 3, Clovis Oncology's (NASDAQ: CLVS) stock doubled after the announcement that it's cancer drug, rucaparib, blew Phase I expectations out of the water. The experimental drug that treats ovarian cancer showed a clinical benefit in 89% of its users, and is targeted towards patients who have resistance towards current disease treatments. Currently, there are no options available to treat this mutation, making rucaparib a potential cash cow for Clovis. Because of the results, Clovis wants to start Phase II trials in the next couple of months.
Clovis recently announced a plan to offer $170 million in common stock in an effort to pay for more drug development programs and other general corporate purposes. Clovis is in the process of developing many other anti-cancer drugs, most of which are already contracted out to national pharmaceutical companies.
Breaking through
Alexion Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: ALXN) is the proud owner of the world's most expensive drug, Soliris. At nearly $410,000 per year for treatment, this remedy that treats paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria ("PNH"), a chronic disease which destroys red blood cells and causes anemia, is certainly not cheap. However, from an investor's perspective, this stock is very appetizing.
The FDA has given the Soliris drug "fast-track status;" a label that the FDA gives to potential break-through drugs. Over the last five years, Alexion has also proved to be one of the fastest growing healthcare stocks. Its EPS alone has grown at 87.72% on average annually during the past five years.
Keep a keen eye on the status of the Soliris drug in the near future. If all goes as expected, this health care stock could shoot to the moon.
Another one to watch
Sarepta Therapeutics (NASDAQ: SRPT) recently received requests from the FDA to provide more information on the clinical drug eteplirsen -- a potential surrogate marker in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophym -- and information about the clinical outcomes from Phase II. Sarepta is still hopeful that it will have communication about accelerated approval this summer, possibly in August, potentially driving the stock price to new heights.
The main reason for possible FDA acceleration is that Eteplirsen is the the only drug that has proven to increase the level of dystrophin: the protein whose deficiency is currently considered the main cause for the muscular dystrophy.
With that said, investor interest is likely to spike in the back half of this year when the Phase III trials of the drug begin and the FDA makes a decision on the outlook of the drug. Definitely keep an eye out for Sarepta Therapeutics in the coming months.
Foolish conclusion
Even when the rest of the country struggled with the recession just a few years ago, the health care industry grew over 50%. Healthcare is still growing faster than the rest of the economy and National Health Expenditures (NHE) as a share of GDP is expected to reach 19.6% by 2019. The above mentioned stocks show signs of potential near-term growth, and investors should definitely keep an eye on them.
Your financial health is just as important as your personal health. The Motley Fool's special free report "3 Stocks That Will Help You Retire Rich" names specific investment opportunities that could help you build long-term wealth and help you retire well. The Fool also outlines critical wealth-building strategies that every investor should know. Click here to keep reading.
Chris Johnson has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Is this post wrong? Click here. Think you can do better? Join us and write your own!


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Most Recent Horn Graduates
- Paul Clifton (BM '13)--won auditions for principal horn in the West Shore Symphony and second horn in the Southwest Michigan Symphony and Illinois Symphony Orchestras. He won second prize in the Premier Solo Competition at the 2013 International Horn Symposium in Memphis, TN. He is on the substitute list for the New World Symphony (Miami, FL) and will perform with the orchestra in February 2014.
- Liz Glasser (MM '14)—living and working in Denver, CO.
- Mac Harris (BM '13)—pursuing an MM (horn performance) degree at the Cincinnati Conservatory.
- Luke Walton (MM '13)—general music and band teacher at the Pembroke Hill and Village Schools in New Hampshire.
- Karin Yamaguchi (BM '13)—pursuing a graduate degree at Scuola Universitaria di Musica in Lugano, Switzerland.
- Molly Zebell (BM '13)—received a graduate assistantship to pursue MM degree (horn performance) at University of Florida.
Recent Alumni News
- Davis Anderson (MM '05)--lives and works in New York.
- Kelsey Anthon (BM '12)--pursuing MM (horn performance) degree at Arizona State University.
- Alex Armstead (Louis) (BMEd '12)--Director of Instrumental Music at Edsel Ford High School (MI).
- Jeff Breisach (BMEd '08)--studying arts administration (MM degree) at UW-Madison.
- Jon Chesman (MM '04)--42R Army Musician at 2nd Infantry Division Band and 42R at United States Army. He currently lives in Uijeongbu, South Korea.
- Kevin Cort (BMEd '06)--director of bands at South Lyon High School (MI).
- Kyle (Alex) Cronin (BM '08)--taught English in South Korea. Currently lives in Troy, MI.
- Megan DeRubeis (BM '10)--studio teacher in Dallas, TX.
- Laurel Filzen Etzel (MM '07)--Director of the Knox Sandburg Community Concert Band and Adjunct Faculty at Illinois Central College.
- Rachel Gasper (BMEd '12)--Director of Bands, Rio Rico High School at Santa Cruz Valley in Arizona.
- Jason Gridley-Waters (MM '08)--plays with the Michigan Philharmonic and is a Ford Motor Company product development engineer.
- Cecilia Kozlowski (BM '08)--won horn position in the Marine's President's Own Band.
- Jack Levoska (BM '10)--freelance horn teacher in southeast MI.
- Bob Lewis (MM '11)--freelancing and teaching in southwest MI. Hear his new blues band.
- John Murphy (BMEd '06)--formerly a music teacher at Hartford High School (MI).
- Kayla Nelson (MM '07)--horn teacher at the University of North Dakota.
- Mike Petterson (BM '08)--completed an MM (horn performance) degree at UW-Madison.
- Jancie Philippus (MM '12)--pursuing DMA (horn performance) degree at University of Illinois.
- Dani Reynolds (MM '10)--WMU School of Music Assistant to the Director.
- Dan Spencer (MM '09)--recently completed DMA (horn performance) degree at University of Iowa. Currently freelancing and teaching in Memphis, TN.
- Aimee Wallace (BMEd '10)--Band Director at Coatimundi Middle School in Tucson, AZ.
Don't see your name? See a misprint? Please write Lin Foulk.
Western Horn Choir 2003-04
Western Horn Choir 2004-05
Western Horn Choir 2005-06
Western Horn Choir 2006-07
Western Horn Choir 2007-08
Western Horn Choir 2008-09
Western Horn Choir 2009-10
Western Horn Choir 2010-11
Western Horn Choir 2011-12
Western Horn Choir 2012-13
WMU Horn Studio 2013-14