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OBJECTIVE: This study compared ratings for self-reported behavioral and emotional problems in adolescents from seven countries. METHOD: Youth Self-Report scores were analyzed for 7,137 adolescents ages 11–18 years from general population samples from Australia, China, Israel, Jamaica, the Netherlands, Turkey, and the United States. RESULTS: Comparisons of problems scores yielded small to medium effect sizes for cross-cultural variations. Youths from China and Jamaica had the highest and youths from Israel and Turkey had the lowest mean total problems scores. With cross-cultural consistency, girls scored higher for internalizing and lower for externalizing than boys. Cross-cultural correlations were high among the mean item scores. CONCLUSIONS: Empirically based assessment provided a robust method for assessing and comparing adolescents' self-reported problems. Self-reports thus supplemented empirically based assessments of parent-reported problems and offered a cost-effective way of identifying problems for which adolescents from diverse cultural backgrounds may need help.
Mental health professionals, educators, and policy makers are increasingly challenged by cultural differences both between and within countries. Wars, famine, disasters, and ethnic and religious conflicts are uprooting people around the world. Among the victims are youths who are placed in unfamiliar cultural environments, sometimes without their families. Cultural differences associated with ethnic, linguistic, religious, and regional variations within countries may also pose challenges for determining which youths need professional help, even when they are not displaced from their homes or families.
When evaluating youths of different cultures, mental health professionals must often determine whether ostensible problems reflect merely cultural differences or whether they reflect need for professional help. To assist in making such determinations, standardized assessment instruments should be applicable to youths from various cultures by diverse professionals under different conditions. To be practical and cost-effective, the instruments should not require much professional time, specialized training, or commitment to particular theories of psychopathology. Instead, they should quickly obtain standardized information that will assist a variety of relevant decision-makers.
Because many cultures lack well-standardized indigenous instruments for assessing the problems of youths, instruments developed in one culture are often translated and adapted for use in other cultures. To apply such instruments to new cultures, they should be tested in various ways to maximize the equivalence of data obtained in the different cultures (1). A key step that both enhances the use of assessment instruments and contributes important knowledge about the distribution of psychopathology within a country is the assessment of epidemiological samples that are representative of a country's population. Data from representative samples are valuable for determining the prevalence of particular problems in a population, for identifying important differences in the number of members of particular groups, such as women and men, and for constructing norms. The norms can then be used to identify deviance in individuals who are subsequently assessed with the instrument that was used in identifying the epidemiological sample. When an assessment instrument has been applied to epidemiological samples in multiple cultures, the results can then be used to identify similarities and differences in the rates of problems from one culture to another and for particular groups, such as women and men, across cultures.
Most cross-cultural epidemiological studies have compared only two cultures at a time; we (2) have provided a review of bicultural comparisons. Although such comparisons reveal similarities and differences between the rates of problem in two cultures, simultaneous comparisons of more cultures make it possible to test the overall range of variation across multiple cultures, to determine where each culture falls within that range, and to identify effects associated with variables such as gender and age with much more confidence than in bicultural comparisons. Multicultural comparisons that include measures of both broad and narrow bands (3, 4) can reveal whether certain cultures are exceptionally high or low in reports of general versus specific kinds of problems.
Most cross-cultural comparisons of the problems of children and youths (2) have been based on reports by parents or teachers. When available, parents and teachers are certainly important sources of data about such problems. However, meta-analyses of many studies using different instruments for assessing children and youths (5) have yielded mean correlations of only 0.27 between parent and teacher reports, 0.25 between parent and self-reports, and 0.20 between teacher and self-reports. Although statistically significant, these modest correlations have indicated that no one type of informant can substitute for the others. Instead, comprehensive assessment requires data from multiple informants whenever possible. For displaced youths, parent and teacher reports may be unavailable. Even when they are available, however, such reports cannot fully substitute for youths' own reports of their problems. To evaluate the degree to which cultural differences may be associated with youths' reports of their problems, it is necessary to compare such reports obtained by means of the same standardized procedures in different cultures.
In this study, we wanted to evaluate the degree to which youths' reports of their own problems differed across diverse cultures, so we compared scores on problems scales from the Youth Self-Report (6) completed by 7,137 11–18-year-olds from Australia, China, Israel, Jamaica, the Netherlands, Turkey, and the United States. To evaluate cross-cultural variations in overall problem levels, we compared total problems scores; to identify possible cross-cultural differences in specific kinds of problems, we compared scores for eight empirically based syndromes and scores for internalizing and externalizing groupings of syndromes. In addition, to evaluate effects associated with gender and age, we compared scores for girls and boys and for different ages between and across cultures.
The Youth Self-Report (6) is a questionnaire designed to be completed by adolescents ages 11–18 years and contains 101 problem items. The problem items are scored as follows: 0=not true, 1=somewhat or sometimes true, and 2=very true or often true on the basis of the preceding 6 months. The Youth Self-Report can be scored on the total problems scale, which is the sum of the scores for each problem item, and the following eight syndrome scales: withdrawn, somatic complaints, and anxious/depressed (together comprising the broadband internalizing scale); social problems, thought problems, and attention problems (which are not part of either the internalizing or externalizing scales); and delinquent behavior and aggressive behavior (together comprising the externalizing scale).
For four of the seven cultures (China, Israel, the Netherlands, and Turkey), where languages other than English are spoken, the Youth Self-Report was translated and back-translated to approximate the original version as closely as possible.
The reliability and validity of the Youth Self-Report are documented by Achenbach (6). Confirmatory factor analyses of parent, teacher, and self-reports of referred Dutch children (7) supported the overall syndrome structure. Because the availability of reliability and validity data varied across the seven cultures, we computed Cronbach's alphas for each of the 11 Youth Self-Report scales in each culture. The ranges were for withdrawn (0.52–0.64), somatic complaints (0.65–0.76), anxious/depressed (0.79–0.86), social problems (0.46–0.64), thought problems (0.49–0.69), attention problems (0.64–0.74), delinquent behavior (0.51–0.70), aggressive behavior (0.76–0.83), internalizing (0.83–0.89), externalizing (0.82–0.86), and total problems (0.92–0.95).
To qualify for inclusion, samples from each culture were required to include completed Youth Self-Reports for at least 75% of the target informants. All samples involved randomized selection from the general population. Data were obtained for adolescents from the following cultures:
Australia (8): The sampling frame was all households in Western Australia. The procedure was random sampling of all households and all children per household. In families in which there was more than one 12–16-year-old, one child was randomly selected for this study. The rate of response was 91%, or 576, of the 12–16-year-olds.
China (unpublished data of P.W.L.L.): The sampling frame was all schools from the city of Hong Kong. The procedure was random sampling of the schools; within each class, two students were randomly selected. The rate of response was 86%, or 1,599, of the 12–18-year-olds.
Israel (unpublished manuscript of N.Z.): The sampling frame was all households in Jerusalem. The procedure was random sampling of all households; within each household, one child was selected. Only Israeli-born Jewish children were included. The rate of response was 83%, or 614, of the 11–17-year-olds.
Jamaica (9): The sampling frame was all schools from the Kingston and Montego Bay areas and rural areas throughout Jamaica. The procedure was random sampling of schoolchildren; within each school, classes from each grade level were randomly selected, and within each class, one adolescent was randomly selected. The rate of response was 90%, or 400, of the 11–18-year-olds.
The Netherlands (10): The sampling frame was all children with Dutch nationality throughout the Netherlands. The procedure was a two-stage sampling of municipalities, followed by random selection from municipal registries. The rate of response was 78%, or 1,098, of the 11–18-year-olds.
Turkey (11): The sampling frame was all children of Turkish nationality throughout Turkey. The procedure was random sampling of households stratified by region and type of settlement. One child per household was randomly selected. The rate of response was 79%, or 1,341, of the 11–18-year-olds.
United States (6): The sampling frame was all households in the 48 contiguous states. The procedure was initial multistage random selection of one child per household between ages 4 and 16, with assessment 3 years later of subjects between ages 11 and 18. The rate of response was 89%, or 1,509, of the 11–18-year-olds.
Analyses of variance (ANOVA) were performed with the general linear modeling procedure of SPSS version 9.0 (Chicago, SPSS) that handles unbalanced data and empty cells. We assumed that there was simple random sampling in each of the countries, although in some countries, complex survey designs were used. However, information about sampling in several countries was too limited to include in our analyses. Therefore, estimates of parameters (e.g., means) and precision may have been biased.
ANOVAs for total problems, internalizing, externalizing, and scores for the eight syndrome scales were performed in a seven-(culture)-by-eight-(ages 11–18)-by-two (gender) factorial design. Age ranges differed somewhat by country (Australia, 12–16 years; China, 12–18 years; Israel, 11–17 years; and Jamaica, the Netherlands, Turkey, the United States, 11–18 years). To test for age effects, a polynomial contrast was applied. Linear and quadratic trends for age were tested.
In view of the high statistical power afforded by the large sample size (N=7,137), we reported only the effects that were significant at p<0.01. Effect sizes were expressed as the percent of explained variance, and they were interpreted according to Cohen's criteria (12) as small (1.0% to <5.9% of variance), medium (5.9% to <13.8%), and large (13.8% or more).
Results of the ANOVAs are displayed in t1, which shows F values and effect sizes for culture, age, gender, and their interactions for the Youth Self-Report total problems, internalizing, externalizing, and eight syndrome scales. t1 also shows that for all significant age effects, the trend was linear, with delinquent behavior also showing a quadratic age effect. For each scale, t2 shows the overall mean score and significant deviations from the overall mean for each culture.
F1 shows the deviation from the overall mean score for Youth Self-Report total problems for each culture, by age.
The mean total problems scores for each culture deviated significantly from the overall mean of 37.6 (t2). The largest deviations were for China (mean=6.6) and Israel (mean=–7.2). Culture accounted for 5% of the variance in total problems scores (t1), which is a small effect size, according to Cohen's criteria (12). Age accounted for <1% of the variance, with older adolescents scoring higher than younger adolescents. A significant age-by-culture interaction, accounting for <1% of the variance in total problems scores, reflected cross-cultural differences in age effects, with the steepest increase with age for China and an absence of an increase for Israel. Girls earned significantly higher total problems scores than boys. There were no interactions between gender and culture or between gender and age. There was no three-way interaction between culture, gender, and age.
For internalizing, externalizing, and the eight syndrome scales, ANOVAs revealed significant effects of culture on each scale. The effects of culture were small, according to Cohen's criteria (12) for five scales and medium for the other five scales. The deviations from the overall mean of each scale are listed in t2. For eight of the 10 scales, significant age effects were found, with higher scores for older youths. The effect sizes were small for four and <1% for the other scales. Significant gender effects were found for seven of the 10 scales. The effect sizes were small for four, and <1% for the other scales. All effect sizes reflected higher scores for girls than boys, except for the externalizing and delinquent behavior scales, on which boys scored higher than girls.
No two-way interactions between age and gender were found. For seven of the 10 scales, significant age-by-culture interactions were found. However, these effect sizes were small (1%) or very small (<1%). For the internalizing, externalizing, withdrawn, attention problems, and delinquent behavior scales, the interactions reflected differences in the increase in scores with age across cultures, with the steepest increases for China, Australia, and the Netherlands, whereas Israel showed the smallest increase in scores with age. For somatic complaints, Israel and the United States showed a decrease, whereas China, Australia, and Jamaica showed an increase with age. The Netherlands and Turkey did not show changes with age. For the thought problems scale, all cultures showed increases with age, except Israel and Turkey. Only two interactions between gender and culture were found, both accounting for <1% of the variance. For the somatic complaints scale, the difference between boys and girls was much smaller for Israel and Turkey than the gender differences found for the other cultures, although for each culture, the girls scored higher than the boys. On the social problems scale, the boys scored higher than the girls in Israel, Australia, the Netherlands, and the United States, whereas in the other cultures, the girls scored higher than the boys. There were no significant three-way interactions between age, gender, and culture.
To compare the relative magnitude of scores on individual Youth Self-Report problem items across cultures, we computed Pearson correlations between the means of the scores on each problem item in each pair of cultures (t3). All bicultural correlations were significant at p<0.001. To compute mean correlations, correlations were converted by means of Fisher's z transformations, and the mean correlation per country and the overall mean correlation were computed. The mean correlations per country ranged from 0.69 (for Turkey) to 0.83 (for the United States), with an overall mean of 0.75. All mean correlations were large, according to Cohen's criteria (12).
Comparisons of problems reported by adolescents ages 11–18 years from seven cultures (N=7,137) yielded a small effect size of 5% for cross-cultural variations in Youth Self-Report total problems scores. The largest deviation above the overall mean was for China, while the largest deviation below the overall mean was for Israel. The other five cultures had mean total problems scores that were clustered within five points of the overall mean of 37.6 derived from all cultures. Although the Youth Self-Report was used for all cultures, differences in methods, including variations in sampling procedures, variations in sample heterogeneity, and vicissitudes of translation may have contributed to these cross-cultural variations. Therefore, differences could be secondary to variations in translations and sampling. However, despite these variations in methods, most differences were small.
Crijnen et al. (3, 4) compared parent-reported problems with the Child Behavior Checklist (13) in 12 cultures across ages 6–11 and nine cultures across ages 6–17. Five cultures in the nine-culture comparison were represented in the present study (Australia, Israel, Jamaica, the Netherlands, and the United States). Deviations from the overall mean score of parent-reported total problems were in the same direction as the deviations from the overall mean score of self-reported total problems for Israel, the Netherlands, and the United States. For Jamaica and Australia, Youth Self-Report scores were above the overall mean, whereas Child Behavior Checklist scores did not differ significantly from the overall mean. For China, Child Behavior Checklist scores were above the overall mean for ages 6–11, as were Youth Self-Report scores in the present study for ages 12–18, despite the fact that the samples were drawn from different parts of Hong Kong. In general, cross-cultural variations were consistent across parent-reported and self-reported problems.
The effect sizes of culture for the internalizing and externalizing scales were medium (6%) and small (4%), respectively. The cultures that scored the highest on the total problems scale (China and Jamaica) also scored the highest on the internalizing scale. Of the seven cultures in our comparison, Israel and the Netherlands had the lowest internalizing scores. Deviations from the overall mean externalizing scale score were smaller than the deviations from the overall mean internalizing scale score. Turkey scored the lowest on the externalizing scale.
The effect size of culture for the eight Youth Self-Report syndrome scales yielded the largest cross-cultural variation for the thought problems scale and the smallest for the aggressive behavior scale. The deviations from the mean scale scores for each culture were not always consistent across all syndrome scales.
The variations in problems scores among cultural groups may have important implications for evaluating individual youths. For example, higher levels of particular problems in immigrant youths versus indigenous youths may result from stress factors associated with immigration. This may alert clinicians to the need for special help. However, if the level of problems in immigrant youths is comparable to that of youths from their native country, the higher levels of problems in immigrant youths over indigenous youths may reflect cross-cultural differences in the reporting of problems (14). These cross-cultural differences may result from differences in thresholds for reporting particular kinds of problems, from linguistic differences, or from true differences in the prevalence of these problems. This can alert clinicians to the need for special help without automatically implying that the higher level of problems constitutes the presence of disorders.
The largest effect size for culture was found for the thought problems scale (8%). This scale consists of items such as "I hear sounds or voices that other people think aren't there," "I see things that other people think aren't there," "I do things other people think are strange," and "I have thoughts that other people would think are strange." These problems involve an adolescent's interpretations of other people's standards and may be more sensitive to cultural influences than problems that are more straightforward and do not require such interpretations.
Cross-cultural differences in scores for particular syndromes can generate ideas for more detailed investigations of factors that influence problems. To illuminate this, the finding that adolescents in China had much higher scores on the anxious/depressed scale than adolescents in United States stressed the need for other sources of data, such as parent or teacher reports, classroom observations, or interviews. If multiple sources of data agree in showing higher levels of anxiety and depression for Chinese than U.S. adolescents, this may imply that culturally related factors are involved in the development of anxiety and depression.
Gender differences were similar across the seven cultures for total problems, internalizing, and externalizing, with girls scoring higher than boys on total problems and the internalizing scales, and boys scoring higher than girls on the externalizing scale. These gender differences by type of self-reported problems were consistent with the gender differences found for parent-reported internalizing and externalizing problems (3). Except for the somatic complaints scale, there was also cross-cultural consistency in gender differences for the syndrome scales, with girls scoring higher than boys on the withdrawn, anxious/depressed, and thought problems scales and boys scoring higher than girls on the delinquent behavior scale. For the three syndrome scales (somatic complaints, anxious/depressed, and delinquent behavior) with significant gender differences in both the present study and the study of parent-reported problems (4), the differences were in the same direction. Despite the range in cultural, economic, political, and genetic differences, there was consistency in both self- and parent reports of boys having more externalizing and girls having more internalizing problems.
Age differences were less consistent across the eight cultures, although significant effects of the age-by-culture interaction did not exceed 1%. Generally, a majority of cultures scored higher with increasing age on most scales.
The relatively small cross-cultural differences in mean problems scores, the cross-cultural similarity in gender differences, and the high bicultural correlations between item scores found in the present study indicated that empirically based standardized self-reports can provide methodologically sound information across diverse cultures. Adolescents from different cultures responded in fairly similar ways to the problem items of the Youth Self-Reports, despite large variations in language, customs, religion, socioeconomic circumstances, and health care systems.
In an earlier study, the use of cross-cultural, standardized, empirically based parental ratings was documented (3). This approach can thus be supplemented with standardized self-reports to form a robust, empirically based assessment method for cross-cultural comparisons of adolescents both within and across individual countries. This is important because adolescents have different perspectives on their problems than do parents or teachers. Adolescents typically report more problems than parents or teachers do about them (15, 16). The use of adolescents' standardized self-reports can cost-effectively provide clinicians with appropriate norms against which individual adolescents' problems scores can be evaluated. This holds true both for adolescents with indigenous as well as immigrant backgrounds. For example, the comparison of adolescent immigrants' or refugees' problems scores with those obtained for adolescents in the host country, as well as with adolescents in the native country, both on parent and self-reports, can guide our understanding of the nature of these problems, as well as the development and provision of mental health services. This approach may also help us understand an individual's problems within a cultural context and may guide more detailed assessments and treatment strategies.
The use of the same assessment procedure to obtain standardized parent reports has facilitated international communication, training, and research. However, this is much less so for adolescents' self-reports of their behavioral and emotional problems. Epidemiological studies containing standardized clinical interviews of adolescents in diverse countries are available (10), but these approaches are costly because they are time-consuming and require intensive training of interviewers. The use of standardized self-reports enables us to cost-effectively gather data on large normative samples, which is important for cross-cultural research as well as for evaluating an individual's problems by comparing the individual's scores on each syndrome with those obtained for normative samples of the same age and gender.
Consistent with the gender differences in parent-reported problems, the present study found great cross-cultural consistency in higher externalizing scores for boys and higher internalizing scores for girls.
Received March 7, 2002; revisions received Aug. 16 and Dec. 6, 2002, accepted Feb. 12, 2003. From the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Erasmus MC-Sophia; the Center for Children, Youth and Families, Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vt.; the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey; Michigan State University, East Lansing, Mich.; the Department of Psychology, Chinese University of Hong Kong, China; the C.N.R.S. Centre de Recherche Français de Jérusalem, Jerusalem; the Falk Institute for Mental Health and Behavioral Studies, Jerusalem; and the Curtin University Centre for Developmental Health, TVW Telethon Institute for Child Health Research, West Perth, Australia. Address reprint requests to Dr. Verhulst, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Erasmus MC-Sophia, dr Molewaterplein 60, 3015 GJ Rotterdam, the Netherlands: firstname.lastname@example.com (e-mail). Funded by NIMH grant MH-40305, the Sophia Foundation for Medical Research, the Western Australian Health Promotion Foundation (grant number 0253/91), and the Australian Rotary Health Research Fund.
Mean Scores for Total Problems on the Youth Self-Report Scale of 7,137 Adolescents From Seven Cultures, by Age
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Warren Buffett Buys More of This Healthcare Stock
Meena is a member of The Motley Fool Blog Network -- entries represent the personal opinion of the blogger and are not formally edited.
Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway has continued buying shares of DaVita (NYSE: DVA) in the month of October, including a purchase of over 60,000 shares on October 16. Berkshire had initiated its position in the company in the fourth quarter of 2011, with 2.7 million shares in its portfolio at the end of the year, and then increased its stake further in the first half of the year. At the end of June, the holding company's 9.3 million shares gave it nearly $1 billion worth of the stock, which has risen 13% since that time and now has a market cap of $10.5 billion. Research more buying and selling from Warren Buffett.
DaVita is a provider of kidney dialysis services, both in outpatient centers and as inpatient services in hospitals. Revenue was up 16% in the second quarter compared to the same period in 2011, and increased at a similar rate in the first quarter of the year (sales increased 3% on a q/q basis). Operating expenses were also higher, and a legal proceeding contingency caused operating income (as well as net income) to be about flat. Without that contingency, the second quarter would have shown about the same increase in operating income that the company saw in the first quarter. Including it, earnings per share for the first half of 2012 rose to $2.46 compared to $1.99 a year earlier. Therefore, it appears that DaVita's operations are doing quite well.
DaVita's trailing P/E is 20, but that's likely skewed up a point or two by the contingency which reduced the company's earnings in the second quarter. Annualizing the first quarter's $1.47 in earnings generates a P/E of 19, and note that revenue- though not necessarily operating income ex-contingency- was higher in the second quarter. The company trades at 16 times forward earnings estimates.
Buffett isn't the only notable investor who likes DaVita; Tiger Cubs have started to sniff around as well. According to our database of 13F filings, Andreas Halvorsen's Viking Global more than doubled its own position in the stock during the second quarter and closed June with a total of 3.2 million shares (find more stocks that Viking Global owned). Fellow Tiger Cub Stephen Mandel, who manages Lone Pine Capital, initiated a position of 3 million shares at his own fund (see more stock picks from Stephen Mandel and Lone Pine Capital).
DaVita's peers include other specialized health care services providers such as Mednax (NYSE: MD), which provides neonatal care; HEALTHSOUTH Corp. (NYSE: HLS), which rehabilitates patients suffering from strokes or neurological problems; Acadia Healthcare Company (NASDAQ: ACHC), which operates behavioral health centers; and orthotic and prosthetic care company Hanger (NYSE: HGR). DaVita is generally priced at a premium to these peers, with Acadia being the exception: that company is unprofitable on a trailing basis, and trades at 24 times analyst consensus for 2013. It has been seeing very strong growth recently- up 61% in its most recent quarter compared to the same period in the previous year- and if it can continue that growth and deliver positive earnings than its valuation may make sense.
The other three peers all trade at forward P/E multiples in the 13-14 range, which as we've mentioned is something of a discount. They also showed considerable earnings growth in the second quarter versus the same period in 2011, with HealthSouth doubling its net income, and growing revenues modestly as well (though at lower rates than DaVita did). On an absolute basis, a P/E in that range given recent growth is quite attractive, but the same is the case for DaVita.
There's little apparent difference in the value opportunity in these companies relative to each other, as the peers with lower growth rates seem to carry an appropriately lower multiple on their earnings. Therefore, an investor should pick whichever healthcare specialty they believe has the best prospects.
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A Community prayer vigil will be held at Community Clubhouse in Crisp County on Sunday, September 14,2014 at 7pm.
One troubled Albany bar will no longer be able to serve alcohol. After a hearing this afternoon, Albany city commissioners decided not to renew the license for Big Daddy's.
They approved renewals for two other bars that police recommended be denied.
Commissioners say they weighed the evidence for each business and then made the appropriate vote.
Of the three hearings Tuesday, Big Daddy's is the only bar to lose there alcohol license. Five commissioners voted in favor of not renewing, two others abstained.
"This last vote was carried out because, number one, it's too small to accommodate the number of persons they have. And it's been a fireball for a long time," said Commissioner Tommie Postell.
Albany Police testified about fights and other incidents at Big Daddy's, like an August homicide that happened at a nearby parking lot.
But Sandtrap Lounge and Club Legends can continuing serving alcohol.
"I think that we made a case that says that my client is constantly looking for ways which to operate within the bounds of the law at the same time provide a service, as well as employment to the community," said Chevene King, Attorney for owner of Legends.
Albany Police also testified about fights and drug activity. But Mayor Hubbard says it simply wasn't enough evidence to get four votes. "Public safety is always an issue, but you also have to weigh that against the business side of it and whether the burden of proof being on the city, whether that happened. And so that's kind of where we got hung up in the split up in terms of the ones that we renewed."
Commissioner Postell voted to not renew the alcohol license for all three. But he doesn't believe the issue is over.
"I'm not disappointed because the majority rules, but I'm not satisfied with the way they developed because now we'll work at another angle. If they don't meet certain criteria, then it comes back before us again. And I'll have another loaded weapon against that."
In December, police made the recommendation to commissioners to not renew the alcohol license for five Albany bars. Big Daddy's is the only one that will no longer be able to serve alcohol.
The owner of Big Daddy's and his attorney declined to comment after today's hearing.
City commissioners voted to renew the alcohol licenses for Legends Club and the Sandtrap Lounge.
Last week, they approved licenses for Club Xscape and Charley B's.
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With one week to go until the March 5 NHL trade deadline, our TSN Hockey Insiders discuss some of the names that have been making waves with some insight on their situations and chances of being dealt.
There are certain names that our Hockey Insiders have been talking about for months, Ryan Miller, Thomas Vanek, Matt Moulson. But the most intriguing names as we head towards TradeCentre are the most recent ones - Martin St. Louis and Ryan Kesler. Let's start with the latter. What are the real chances that Kesler gets dealt by the Canucks?
Bob McKenzie: Well it's by no means guaranteed but it is a possibility. The buzz on Kesler is increasing by the day. Now, we should get the disclaimers out of the way. The Vancouver Canucks are not aggressively shopping and trying to trade Ryan Kesler, but I do believe that they're aggressively listening. Keep in mind though that Kesler has got a no-move, no-trade clause, so he's not going anywhere he doesn't want to go. Keep in mind also that he's technically injured right now, he's got a finger injury that might be broken, we're only guessing. The Canucks say he's day-to-day so hopefully that won't come into play. But the question then becomes what would the Canucks have to get back in order to consider trading Kesler? It would obviously be a lot. What they're going to be looking for is to pick up a young centre between the ages of 20-25 who can grow into the role that Kesler is in right now. Somebody that gives you a fighting chance at a reload if not necessarily a rebuild.
So for example, would Kesler be prepared to go back to Ohio - he played at Ohio State University - for the Columbus Blue Jackets? And if he was prepared to do that, would the Blue Jackets give up a young centre like Ryan Johansen? Would the New York Rangers give up Derek Stepan, or someone along those lines? Again, someone who is between 20 and 25 who the Canucks can put in their lineup. If they can find the absolute right fit, and they would have to take some money back on Kesler because in order to make these trades, there's a lot of teams that are capped out and would have a tough time taking his salary - although when you look at his contract it's an awesome contract for that guy. So yeah, it's being considered.
Darren Dreger: Well, there's no shortage of interest in Kesler. When he's healthy and competing with the edge that his reputation has been built on, what not to like about him? But when you talk to general managers who might be nibbling at the edges and might have interest in a player like Kesler, there is some concern. When he's healthy, he does have a history of health issues and he's not as intense and productive as he's been in recent years, so he's not entirely without risk.
Martin St. Louis...when he refuses to deny that he has asked for a trade, saying there have been conversations, he's essentially saying "I've asked for trade". Could this happen?
Dreger: It absolutely could happen between now and March 5, and it could also drag into the off-season. What we know is that the Tampa Bay Lightning did reach out to the New York Rangers prior to the Olympics to gauge interest in the possibility of trading such a dynamic and an impactful player within their organization. Now, it wasn't a fit at that point, and it's going to be a complicated process to make it fit again now between now and March 5. That's because Steve Yzerman isn't going to give St. Louis away. This is going to be a difficult negotiation and the Rangers, as much as they love St. Louis and what he might bring to their team, he's also 38 years of age and that's going to be difficult to give prime assets for.
McKenzie: For sure. I would kind of be shocked if St. Louis got traded by the deadline, and if he really does wants out of Tampa Bay - and the indication seems to be that he does - then it's much more likely to be resolved in the off-season then right now, but I guess you never say never. The thing if I were Yzerman I would look at is, St. Louis, if he was unhappy before, he's playing really well. And the Lightning are a good team and I don't know how you get immediate true value for St. Louis right now that doesn't interrupt the Tampa Bay's progress toward making the playoffs and being a contender in the East.
Andrei Markov has gone from injury-prone defenceman to a mini-iron man. He hasn't missed a game now in two seasons, and that presents a contract quandary to Montreal Canadiens GM Marc Bergevin. How much of a risk is he in terms of giving him term when he's 35 years old with a bunch of knee surgeries behind him?
McKenzie: Well I guess the question is what is the term? I mean, let's make one thing perfectly clear - the Canadiens like Markov and want to re-sign him. It's been reported on Montreal radio that the Canadiens have offered one year at $6 million, which is a raise of salary, but only one year on the extension because he's 35 and over. My understanding is the Canadiens are not absolutely locked into "we're only offering you a one-year deal, that's it, take it or leave it". But there is some flexibility on the part of the Canadiens to do a one-year, or maybe a two-year deal. Keep in mind, because you're an over-35 player, you can use games played bonuses and you can really jack up the salary based on those bonuses that you can't do with other contracts.
That said, the question is how flexible is Markov? The word I'm getting is that he may be looking for as much as a four-year deal, which seems really long for a guy of his age and injury history. Now is he flexible? Maybe it means four years, maybe it means three. So there is an issue with term. The issue then becomes, do they trade him before the deadline? I would be surprised, unless they got an offer that absolutely blew them away, but I think their goal is to try to get it signed, and I think this is a negotiation.
Martin St. Louis is a Ranger, Matt Moulson is a member of the Minnesota Wild and the Montreal Canadiens have Thomas Vanek. Look back at all the big name deals that went down.
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But in between the picnics, the baseball games and the sales, we all need to pause and remember what Memorial Day is all about.
It was originally established to honor those who died in the Civil War. Today, it's a time to remember and pay tribute to all those who fought and died in all our country's wars.
It is even more significant now since we are in a war in Afghanistan and thousands of American troops are in other hot spots around the world. Those in harms way include men and women from Barksdale Air Force Base in Bossier City.
So, on this Memorial Day, keep our military personnel and their families in mind. It's the least we can do.
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MOSCOW, Idaho--One local man said he dedicates his free time to collecting copies of the movie Speed. Ryan Beitz, of Moscow, wants to be the sole owner of every VHS copy of the 1994 thriller starring Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock.
"One time I bought 30 copies from a store," said Beitz.
What started as a joke, when Beitz bought six copies from a pawnshop seven years ago, turned into a campaign.
"We're running a Kick-Starter to get the van fixed up and painted like the bus from the movie Speed. It's so we can travel the country, come to your town and get copies of Speed," said Beitz.
It's rare to come across VHS tapes today in a world of DVD's. Beitz had 550 VHS tapes of the movie as of April 23.
"A lot of people just donate them to me, they send them from all over. I've got a few from Japan," said Beitz. "I would buy them all off of Amazon but the shipping costs $4 when the copy costs a penny. It's ridiculous."
OUTTAKES: Man collecting Speed copies just because
CONNECT: Donate your copy of Speed
It could be Beitz' enthusiasm that's driven this obsession to go viral.
Beitz started the World Speed Project in 2007. His one-man mission took off in April and was picked up by NPR, Good Morning America and a Japanese reality TV production company.
"No one ever really knows if the work they're doing is making the world a better place or not, but they don't give up. That's how Speed works. We just have to keep going no matter what," said Beitz.
KREM 2 News asked Beitz if he could estimate how many copies of the movie he wanted to get his hands on before he would stop looking.
"No, I'm never giving up. I can't stop my whole life because I'll never know. So, I'll die looking for Speed," said Beitz.


text:
Richland County Sheriff's deputies say two brothers got into an argument over dinnerware and one brother ended up stabbing the other Sunday night.
Deputies were called to a home on Lakeridge Parkway just after 6 p.m. Sunday. Sergeant Curtis Wilson says 47-year-old Edward William Bright got into an argument with his brother over what dinnerware to use for their and the argument turned physical.
Bright is accused of stabbing his brother several times in the torso with a steak knife. Wilson says the victim's wounds were superficial and the injuries are not life-threatening.
Bright is charged with assault and battery and was taken to Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.
Copyright 2013 WIS. All rights reserved.


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Cite as "AILA InfoNet Doc. No. 07092060 (posted Sep. 20, 2007)"
AILA has produced this nine minute video, "Comprehensive Immigration Reform: An American Tradition," to serve as a tool for its members and for immigration advocates to use in reaching out to members of their communities, the media, and to policy makers.
The video makes the case for comprehensive immigration reform by challenging the myths surrounding this ongoing debate. It details the benefits of a comprehensive approach to fixing our nation's broken immigration system while pointing out why an enforcement–only or piecemeal policy won't work.
AILA urges you to look for opportunities to initiate discussions about immigration in your community by screening this video as part of a presentation. Consider seeking audiences with local leaders, service clubs, social clubs, churches, business associations, and schools. Check with your Chambers of commerce for listings of such organizations in your area.
Once you have secured a "screening" be sure to have with you other backup information to use as handouts. AILA's Resource Guide: Making the Case for Comprehensive Immigration Reform provides excellent supporting materials including talking points and fact sheets
And don't forget, AILA Advocacy and Communications staff would appreciate the opportunity to provide further information or answer questions about either the Resource Guide or Comprehensive Immigration Reform video
Five different formats of the file are available depending on your computer and internet connection speed.
300k: (High-Res)
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Or download a copy to your computer so that you can burn to a CD or DVD: To save the file to your computer: Internet Explorer Users: Right-click and choose "Save Target As"; Firefox Users: Right-click and choose "Save Link As"


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Part of the etnies Skyline Collection, the Woodsman 2 is made of 100% nylon 320D ottoman with a washed polyurethane yoke and a corduroy collar. It features poly fill insulation with a 100% poly 210T quilted lining, and a custom Skyline Collection trim and label package.
Details & Features
- 100% nylon 320D ottoman.
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- Corduroy collar.
- Poly fill insulation.
- 100% poly 210T quilted lining.
- Custom Skyline Collection trim and label package.
Item code: 4130002733/001
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A Complete Package by FRANK, LAFAYETTE HILL, PA on 08/13/2011. Trim: 2011 Porsche Cayenne Base, Owned 1 year.
Pros: Exterior appearance turns heads. Interior layout is striking and functional. Handling and braking are exceptional for a large heavy SUV. Base engine at 3oo HP provides more than adequate power.
Cons: Absence of a rear view camera as a standard item. Must order a car to get it because dealers don't include it on standsrd orders. Park assist is a nice feature but not as useful as a camera. The console storage space is a little sparse.
Overall review: Essthetically the car is very appealing, inside and out, Nine months into ownership I have not had a single prooblem with it. There are some quirky features, like the igniotion key being on the left side of the steeerring wheel, but nothing that would prevent me from buying the car. It is rock solid. Unlike some other German autos, you get performance and esthetics wrapped up in one package.
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text:
Guy spots girl in Starbucks. He gives her a some pick up line and manages to get the digits. He later texts her a video..something. Not sure what to call it but it got posted online and it went viral. Is it a promo? A trailer? A sex tape invitation?
Since he used Drake's Hold On, We're Going Home song while trying to do some weird sexy hand peek-a-boo maneuver, people started an internet meme #DrakeHands. This is what dating has come to now? Not only do we NOT call and have a conversation, we moved beyond texting and now we are at video texts.
What would you do if someone sent you something like this? Would you be impressed? Creeped out?
What is the dumbest pick up line or gesture you have done to get someone's attention? I once nearly hit a guy on his bike …intentionally. I don't know WHAT I was thinking but he was going by fast and I couldn't think of words, so I almost had an accident with him. So awful. Clearly he saw right through that!
Do you think stupid dating tricks like this ever pay off?
By Wise Diva, Misadventures in Atlanta Dating Blog
October 10th, 2013
7:16 am
Do you think stupid dating tricks like this ever pay off? only if you are under 20 years old. At this time in my life you just come off stupid — in my opinion
Never used a pick up line, but there was this time hehe this 100% total hot damn fine body builder was talking to me, I could not talk at first — think i was 18 or 19 at the time. We went out a few times– all he had going for him was his body, 100% jerk!
October 10th, 2013
7:19 am
Hello all
I guess things will always evolve in life. Not something I would do.
What would you do if someone sent you something like this? I'm not sure, would have to cross that road when I got to it.
October 10th, 2013
7:53 am
When I was in my early 20's, I would have been creeped out. But with some age and experience, I would find it creative and would give him a chance. I once went over a parking lot cement divider as I was too caught up in trying to get attention of this guy. He did end up taking me on a date, but it go nowhere.
October 10th, 2013
8:31 am
They are only 'stupid' if they don't work and juvenile if they are used by the younger folks.
But sometimes,folks get creative in order to get what they desire. It does not have to be a video text.
Even frown folks go 'overboard' too,with dating or marriage desires.
It is what it is!
Good morning MIA!
(word of caution:Diva,this topic is for your junior league blog tho)
October 10th, 2013
8:32 am
October 10th, 2013
8:37 am
Actually this happened to me this week. This guy said he was going to send me a video (of only God knows what), because he apparently wanted me to share in his emotion of arousal. While I like the guy, I was not impressed by that and promptly invited him not to send it to me.
This is the second time that's happened. Well the first time was years ago, this guy from DC didn't even warn me he just sent it [the video] to me. I think I'm still traumatized……
Isn't sexting against the law or something?
What is the dumbest pick up line or gesture you have done to get someone's attention? I don't think I've ever tried to pick someone up with a line or tried to hit on anyone. Maybe since I'm 30 now I will live a little and try it.
October 10th, 2013
8:41 am
I won't go as far as saying what this guy did was stupid. I saw the video and there's really nothing to it except a guy smiling and wiping his eyes. I give him a B+ for creativity. I read he did get a date with the model girl from Starbucks. I am a huge fan of calling first but this gets a pass bc he kept it clean and short oh and it was too cute.
Do you think stupid dating tricks like this ever pay off? sometimes they do, it gives you both something to laugh about.
Good morning!
October 10th, 2013
8:45 am
Depending on what the video text or whatever was PLUS whether or not I was attracted to him, I just may think it was cute and creative. Now if I'm SOOOOO not attracted to the guy, i'd think he was creepy. I'd probably also think he does a lot of random wang shucking videos, texts etc…
Morning gang!
October 10th, 2013
8:52 am
What would you do if someone sent you something like this? Would you be impressed? Creeped out?
Be irked to no end….lol
Stupid Dating Tricks is our title so I'll just sum it up with….
Stupid is as stupid does
October 10th, 2013
8:54 am
BTW Good morning everyone. Weekend is almost near
October 10th, 2013
9:05 am
Morning All!
Never used a pickup line.
During my dating years there was no cells, texts, or video. So, I wouldn't know anything about that. I suppose that if I were to meet someone and she sent me a video, the only way I would see it as a cute gesture, is if she had taken the time to call to talk, at least once, before the video.
October 10th, 2013
9:06 am
Quick question: What's the biggest age gap of anyone you've ever dated?
October 10th, 2013
9:08 am
Ding, ding
If s/he's cute (or more bluntly, if you want to bang) then it's "cute". If the person is not attractive, then s/he's crazy.
It's always been funny how that works
October 10th, 2013
9:08 am
Old School Players and New School Fools
October 10th, 2013
9:11 am
22 years
October 10th, 2013
9:15 am
gotta agree with Ex….this topic is for the younger folks……..
Leggs…..gal, I lost an hour of my life last nght with that nonsense….Preachers of LA…
October 10th, 2013
9:16 am
The last time I sent a video it was on Betamax.
October 10th, 2013
9:17 am
Morning All!
I wouldn't want to receive random video texts as the first "conversation" after meeting someone.
Slim- 10 1/2 years
October 10th, 2013
9:19 am
SlimNu – "What's the biggest age gap of anyone you've ever dated?"
For me, probably about ten years older; She was older. Don't know if one would call it dating in the classic sense. We were both attending the same college(UAB), and had a chemistry class together. Got paired up with her in chemistry lab. One thing led to another, and we made plans to meet at the cafeteria for lunch and discuss the upcoming exam.
We did. It went on from there, but, in answer to your question, she was ten years my senior. Don't remember anybody else being older than ten years. The vast majority of them were younger(Just a bit). A few around the same age.
October 10th, 2013
9:22 am
Dan – Are you serious??? WOW!!! Was she older or younger than you and how did that work out? Any major issues as a result of the large age gap?
October 10th, 2013
9:23 am
It was 10 years older, eons ago. Everyone has been younger
October 10th, 2013
9:24 am
Dushawn – I was in a thrift shop the other day and saw a display of 8 tracks and cassette tapes. lolol
Reio – Why did that courtship end?
October 10th, 2013
9:26 am
Preachers of LA was a hot mess. I can't believe they'd open up on tv clowning like that…just uggggh That felt like playas and pimps
October 10th, 2013
9:28 am
"If s/he's cute (or more bluntly, if you want to bang) then it's "cute". If the person is not attractive, then s/he's crazy."
While I can certainly understand how that works, especially with younger folks, even when I was younger; I never really thought much about a woman's looks. Don't know why. I'm not blind. I see what all other men see. I was just never taken aback, if you will, by a cute face or beautiful figure. That's just me though.
October 10th, 2013
9:34 am
@SlimNu 15 years. I was 18 at the time and he was 33. I didn't KNOW he was 33, I thought he was in his 20s until he said something that insinuated that he was much older. When I pressed him for his age he didn't want to say. I found out by looking at his wallet when I went into the bathroom. Didn't work out. I was innocent when I met him and innocent when I left (as I planned) which wasn't in his plans.
October 10th, 2013
9:34 am
Celisea – You like those young whipper snappers huh lol
October 10th, 2013
9:36 am
First the Betamax tapes (in which I burst out laughing)
and now……
Slim – Whipper snappers….lololol ha ha ha No more than four years younger
October 10th, 2013
9:40 am
Yes – When I was in my 20's I met a guy on the hwy (lol) and he lied about his age…told me he was way younger than he was.
Celisea – I forgot about that show and have been waiting to see it. Sounds like it was everything I expected it to be. BUt why would you jeopardize your rep as a preacher by some drama-filled reality show. I wouldn't be able to take them serious after that.
October 10th, 2013
9:40 am
SlimNu- Quick question: What's the biggest age gap of anyone you've ever dated? 12 years younger, 7 years younger and my fiance is 6 years younger.
October 10th, 2013
9:42 am
" Why did that courtship end?"
Well, I'm sorry, maybe I misrepresented this relationship. That's why I said earlier "Don't know if one would call it dating in the classic sense."
We would meet to study together. We both lived off campus, but I don't remember either of us visiting the other's home. Had several phone conversations. Attended a basketball game or two, UAB didn't have a football team yet. I saw her as a very intelligent, opinionated, somewhat provocative, person. Interesting. Kind. But not a person that I wanted to spend a lot of time with. She was the instigator. Everything we did together, was at her suggestion, not mine. I either agreed to it(most of the time), or not. After that class ended, we just kinda faded into the abyss.
October 10th, 2013
9:45 am
Slim – Exactly. For the sake of those watching and the effect it might have, I'd much rather be more circumspect and not give anyone an out or opportunity to place or lay blame. Even if they say they have a message or if they say it's under the right intents, I wouldn't expose myself in such a way, being men of the cloth. You gotta give folks something to reach for that's not what they see or already familiar with. Many won't take them seriously after that show.
October 10th, 2013
9:48 am
She was older, I was 18 she was 40. It didn't work out because it was never going to, we were both in it for the sex (and me for the other perks that an 18yo with a 40yo "girlfriend would get – money, housing, experiences). The minute she – more appropriately, her friends -got to feeling somekindaway about the relationship and me, it was over.
I think it she could have been honest with her self or happy with what we had, it would have lasted longer. But it was never going to be much beyond the sex.
October 10th, 2013
9:52 am
Reio – I'd classify that as "Something to Do"…lol
Dan – Gotcha…I remember this 18yo dude was so smitten with me when I was in my late 20's. I just couldn't bring myself to go down that road though.
October 10th, 2013
9:53 am
@SlimNu he never explicitly lied to me about his age. But he gave me the impression that he wasn't much older than me. When he asked me my age and I said 18 he said oh you're not that much younger than me. So I assumed he was in his 20's. What did he tell you when you asked?
October 10th, 2013
9:54 am
good morning.
dang diva. running folks over. that's deep. lol.
first things first, I'm not a fan of text messages. any grown man who sends me a text message before he even calls me for the first time is immediately eliminated from the roster.
October 10th, 2013
9:56 am
I can't open the link, but I sense I would be creeped out over it. I think it's a shame that so many rely on texting instead of talking. Texting is fine, but in the beginning, please pick up phone and give me a call. I like to hear your voice.
"Clearly he saw right through that!" – But, did you get the digits is the question (lol).
2C ~ I figured that show would be a lot of nothing. Preachers on TV airing their drama while they run a church and their lavish living does not appeal to me.
Good morning.
October 10th, 2013
9:57 am
reio – there are some that consider "hi" to be the greatest pick up line ever. surely you've said "hi" to some unsuspecting woman. lol.
slim – 20 years.
October 10th, 2013
9:57 am
I've gone out with much younger, but I just don't have an appetite for that. The age brings too much of a variance for me. IMO and for me, no matter how many "grown" women you got with, it still won't give you what every year of your life will bring. So, when I've sat down with folks much younger, there's just something missing. Don't get me wrong, bright, eager (ha ha ha), intelligent, but still something is not there. And I've never been able to explain. Even when you say you can't do the age different, there's a plethora of reasons given and explanations of how mature they are. Still, the gap is not so much the age but the inability to "catch up."
Desires and everything else changes or shifts. What you thought was life and living at 20 changes over the years. Some things you get better with. some things are eliminated and some things you just weren't aware of are not in full effect. For that reason, I can't wait for someone much younger to get to "that" place.
October 10th, 2013
9:59 am
any grown man who sends me a text message before he even calls me for the first time is immediately eliminated from the roster
Definitely. I had some dude texting me so much that I asked if was with someone. All that texting and never talking just casts a shadow for me.
October 10th, 2013
10:00 am
noW in full effect not "not in full effect"
October 10th, 2013
10:00 am
What's the biggest age gap of anyone you've ever dated?
@Slim….let him hunch…!! what age got to do with it?
2C..How old are u by the way…..what age u tell her?
October 10th, 2013
10:03 am
Good Morning!
I see the cougars of the blog (Celisea, Button) likem young..hehehehehe!
Celisea quit playing with me! I have been in your thoughts for 4 years it's gonna happen…I'm gonna get that mind to go my way…
I don't use pick-up lines, I just say hello and start a conversation. I can't recall doing crazy stuff unless I was on the bb court.
Slim I think 15yrs younger than me and 7 yrs older than me…
Why do you ask? Are you going to give one of those old dudes a try?
October 10th, 2013
10:04 am
Morning Gang!
I'm too lazy to watch the video so I'll take Button's word for it. I guess it's cute & creative for the younger set. Like some have said, it would only be cute to me if I was attracted to the guy, if he were cute. He would definitely have to still follow up the traditional way with a phone call and invite for a date. Otherwise, like any approach from someone you don't find attractive, it would be annoying. Total zero, even if he was cute, if he sent me something nasty.
Slim – Biggest gap about 6 years old, 5 younger. I generally have always preferred men near my age.
October 10th, 2013
10:05 am
Correction – 6 years OLDER!
October 10th, 2013
10:07 am
"dang diva. running folks over. that's deep" – I thought so too and laughed.
I remember when I was trying to get this guy's attention while I was on my bike. I took my hands off the wheel and rode over a rock and next thing I know I'm on the pavement with my elbow cut to the white meat. I was so embarrassed. He came over and helped me up, but I couldn't muster anything more than a thank you and wobbled my butt down the road.
October 10th, 2013
10:08 am
disco – Sure, I've said "Hi" to a woman. said "Hi" to plenty women. But never with an eye towards getting her number or, eventually, going out with her. Asking for digits….came only after a conversation(Admittedly, some, quite brief) that peaked my interest and caused me to want to talk to her more. Never approached a woman with "Hi" just because I felt that she was physically attractive. Hell, If that were the case, I would have been trying to get numbers and 'pullin' chicks left and right. Lots of attractive women around. I bet you're one of'em too. Hehehe…..
October 10th, 2013
10:10 am
I went to that massage place i was talking bout yesterday…in buckhead,over there by Chops…
I didnt like it……it was my wife's idea for her birthday….
man..these massage places are undercover brothels….no lie about that….
I have had a massage,a couple of years ago but it was somebody running a mobile one and i went to her parents home…and then she came to my house to do Queen…
This one in buckhead..so called upscale and all…but..
i wasnt feeling the aroma….felt more like a red light brothel….or a visit to ur blackpage girl in her apartment(2C..knw whatimtalkbout? )
and they have these gowns that are used by other patrons..just looked shady and slimy to me……almost like u are in a hsopital but for the brothel aromas….
and the massage…..she did the back and shoulders…then later asked me to turn around….did the belly a lil bit…then the legs and foots…..
when she reached for the inside of the thighs, thats when i said to maself…."HERE WE GO!"…thinking bout 2C…..
To be honest,if one is a dedicated Christian…massage parlous should be a NO NO….
….sorry for Reiorising u this morning…
October 10th, 2013
10:10 am
I've dated 8 years older and never younger than my age at any given time.
October 10th, 2013
10:11 am
leggs – so you were wobbling way before it was popular. that's funny.
hey kimmie!!!
October 10th, 2013
10:11 am
Disco….Was Diva desperate for some action? Almost running a dude over, c'mon Diva you should have enough pick-up lines to last a life time…
Lee…How long were you married?
YSIC…The art of verbal communication is going down the tube with the younger generation unfortunately you are in that age range where the boys use texts and videos are a form of communication.
If we exchange phone numbers and you send me a text, you will not receive anything from me! Next!


text:
16 U.S. Code § 4503 - Institute of Tropical Forestry in Puerto Rico
(a) Expansion
The Secretary shall expand the capabilities of and construct additional facilities at the Caribbean National Forest and Institute of Tropical Forestry in Puerto Rico, as the Secretary determines necessary to support the purpose of this chapter, and as funds are appropriated for such expansion and construction.
(b) Tropical forestry plans
Not later than 1 year after November 5, 1990, the Secretary shall prepare and submit to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry of the Senate, the Committee on Agriculture of the House of Representatives, and to the Committees on Appropriations of the Senate and House of Representatives, a tropical forestry plan for the expansion and construction of additional facilities under subsection (a) of this section. Such plan shall include provisions for—
(1) the construction or acquisition of a major center for education, interpretation, and appreciation of the benefits and methods of the intelligent management of tropical forests;
(2) the acquisition or construction of facilities for housing and classroom instruction near the Caribbean National Forest/Luguillo Experimental Forest; and
Source(Pub. L. 101–513, title VI, § 604,Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 2071; Pub. L. 102–574, § 2(b)(2),Oct. 29, 1992, 106 Stat. 4596.)
1992—Pub. L. 102–574inserted "in Puerto Rico" in section catchline.
Change of Name
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The most recent Classification Table update that we have noticed was Tuesday, August 13, 2013
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In this season of giving, why not add a wounded warrior or deployed servicemember to your card/gift list? Not sure how? I am at your service!
Take a gander at the following:
The following email/Facebook post has been around for years: add the following to your Christmas card list: A Recovering American Soldier, c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center, 6900 Georgia Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20307. Just the other day a friend of mine on Facebook posted such a request.
Good intentions; however:
First of all, WRAMC closed last year.
Second of all, even when they were open, they would not accept cards or packages that were not addressed to a specific patient due to security reasons. At present, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland will also not accept cards or packages unless they are addressed to a specific wounded warrior.
So, although a wonderful idea to get mail to our recovering wounded warriors, the address has not been valid for years, yet it continues to circulate. I hate to think of someone going to the expense and trouble of sending a stack of cards only to have them thrown out.
If you would like the cards to reach their intended target - the actual address to send cards to our recovering wounded warriors via the Red Cross at:
Holiday Mail for Heroes
P.O. Box 5456
Capitol Heights, MD 20791-5456
This year the deadline is Friday, December 7th.
Holiday cards received after this date cannot be guaranteed delivery.
Be that as it may, in this season of giving, and in the event that you want to send more than just a card, let's look at some other options.
What could you send and to where?
Also, if you have funds to spare, where could you donate them?
The answer to both is to use the non-profits/not-for-profits.
As a former family member/caregiver who was at Walter Reed during the holiday season, I can unequivocally state that if you want to send something that the patients and families can really use, I would recommend gift cards. At the hospital, in addition to the cafeterias (Main Street, The Wedge and the Main Dining Hall), we have Dunkin Donuts, Subway and McDonalds. Gift cards to those establishments as well as generic Visa/Mastercard are greatly appreciated, because eating in the hospital every day gets expensive. Additionally, Target, CVS and/or Walmart would be appreciated.
Believe it or not, candy, cookies and other yummies are given at an abundance, but they are always appreciated and many share with the floor by leaving them in the Nutrition Room. You could also send: socks (especially the warm, fuzzy slipper kind), hats, gloves, drink mixes, pudding cups, and hard candy.
If it is your choice to make a financial contribution, the following is a list of non-profits/not-for-profits who aid not only wounded warriors, but deployed military as well. There are so many more than those that are listed. A little research will reveal so many more. There is an organization that appeals to everyone. The following are those with which I or a close friend have had experience and can personally vouch for their causes.
Operation Ward 57 - Not only do they visit the ward to raise morale, they distribute blankets, shirts, hats, gift cards, etc. to wounded warriors and their families. This year, they are sponsoring two Christmas parties on two separate wards, free of charge to the wounded warriors, family and staff. They recently added a separate division to their services called Honor and Courage. Through H&C they offer peer support and encouragement. If gift cards are forwarded to them and earmarked for Walter Reed, they will be distributed to the families and wounded warriors at Walter Reed Bethesda. Although based in Seattle, they are on the ground in Maryland and offer direct support to Walter Reed. Operation Ward 57, PO Box 80055, Seattle, Washington 98108. www.operationward57.org. www.facebook.com/operationward57
Help Our Military Heroes – They provide the military wounded with fully equipped handicapped vehicles. http://www.helpourmilitaryheroes.org This group is instrumental in helping the wounded warriors to regain their independence.
Adopt-a-Solider-Platoon - In addition to visiting wounded warriors, this group adopts platoons who are deployed and sends care packages. Last year, they made a visit to Kuwait and brought Christmas trees, packages, and Washington Red Skins cheerleaders. They will accept monetary donations as well as items to include in care packages to be sent overseas. www.adoptasoldierplatoon.org/
Yellow Ribbon Fund - The YRF provides to wounded warriors and their families the following services: massages, spa days, rental cars, taxi rides; hotel rooms; tickets to sporting games, concerts and plays, lunches, dinners, golf games, duck and goose hunts, fishing trips and other activities. 4905 Del Ray Avenue, Suite 500, Bethesda, Maryland 20814, Phone: 240-223-1180.
Fisher House Foundation (and Hero Miles) - The Fisher House provides lodging free of charge for military families during illness and rehabilitation. Their Hero Miles program flies families free of charge to their loved ones. 111 Rockville Pike, Suite 420, Rockville, Maryland 20850. 888-294-8560. www.fisherhouse.org.
Aleethia Foundation - They provide weekly dinners for wounded warriors and their families, as well as other financial relief. www.Aleethia.org
iPads for Soldiers – They donate iPads to both wounded warriors and deployed military. Email: www,ipadsforsoldiers.org/contact. Website: www.ipadsforsoldiers.org
iPods for Wounded Veterans - This organization provides iPods for wounded veterans to help them through their illness and rehabilitation. 4 Heather Drive, Wilmington, MA 01887.
Our Military Kids - This wonderful group concentrates on our children. Children of deployed reservists and wounded warriors are given grants (sports, fine arts, camps and tutoring), care packages, and support while they deal with either a parent who is away or a parent who has been wounded. www.ourmilitarykids.org/
If you want to send items to be included in care packages and forwarded to deployed military, the following are the way to go:
Adopt-a-Soldier-Platoon – Discussed above. www.adoptasoldierplatoon.org.
AASP published a list of requested items/suggestions for donations. For ideas about what to send, check it out here: www.adoptasoldierplatoon.org/images/ShortGoodielist10-23-12.pdf
Operation Jersey Cares - Care packages to our deployed military. www.operationjerseycares.org.
Have a wonderful holiday season!
Merry Christmas!
Happy Hanukkah!
Cheery Kwanzaa!
Delightful Diwali!
Peaceful Ramadan!
And a happy, healthy, and safe New Year!
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Thank you so much for this helpful blog. Another great organization to donate to is the USO. Just go to uso.org, hit the Programs: Assisting our Troops tab and see a full list of activities to support.
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Hard drives are fractioned into respective information storage areas known as partitions. Partitioning is fine because, it segregates the OS data files and program data files from the user data files. In drive partitioning the disk drive is segmented into logical drives, also known as volumes.
Partition damage scenarios
Possible scenarios where partitions can are damaged or lost:
· Corrupt partition tabular arrays.
· Virus infections.
· Unexpected PC shutdown.
· Power heaves.
· OS crashes.
· Erasure of partitions and formatting the hard disk drive.
· Upgrading the existing edition of OS with a fresh one etc.
No matter what may be the reason of partition failure, the effect is stern information failure and unavailability of the partitions. The file systems may get degraded due to a physical or a logical harm to the hard disk.
Probabilities of recouping the partitions
In order to Recover Partition, we need have right info of the volume and placements of the partitions. Data formatting the damaged hard disk, reinstall the OS, and regenerate information from the most recent valid computer backup. Just in case the computer backup is unavailable, terrible information failure takes place as formatting the disk drive, erases information from the drive.
Lest of damaged partition, the causes may be computer virus attempts, damaged partition tabular arrays or crashes. In such a condition the information is yet available on the hard disk and can be rejuvenated by recuperating the partition tabular array.
In any case there is a need to recuperate data files that are missed due to partition corruptness. You can choose a data file retrieval tool to recover files from the damaged partitions.
Misplaced partitions may lead due to unwitting excision, power heaves, inadvertent formatting etc. Here you can choose for a third party partition recovery tool to recoup damaged missed partitions.
Retrieval of lost partitions with genuine Partition Recovery package
There are many partition recovery softwares existing on the net. These partition recovery softwares come with an interactive interface. It realizes the file system and applies high-end reading proficiencies to run down through the total disk drive and pull the corrupted and unattainable partitions from it. This can also be used to recuperate data files that are more significant from the erased or corrupted partitions. Even corrupted partition recovery is possible using this software.


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Marine Kyle Carpenter ran into Foo Fighter Dave Grohl after President Obama awarded him with the Medal of Honor.
Whether it's already summer or just feels like it, here are important pet care tips to keep your dogs and cats safe and healthy.
After surgery and a tiring drive, a mutt from Afghanistan named Rommel snuggled on the sofa with his long-lost savior last week.
The Moore County Dog Tags program pairs wounded soldiers with dogs who have been abandoned or abused.


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Johnny Football passes torch to Famous JameisThe Associated Press | December 16,2013NEW YORK Famous Jameis has replaced Johnny Football as the face of college football.
Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston won the Heisman Trophy on Saturday night. Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel, last years winner, finished fifth in the voting and seemed to enjoy a relaxing trip to Manhattan, playing the role of supporting actor to Winstons leading man.
Manziel was the first freshman to win the Heisman, and it helped turn him into one of the biggest celebrities in sports. Not all the attention he got after winning the award was good.
Winston is now the second freshman to win the Heisman. He has a chance to lead the top-ranked Seminoles to a national championship next month against No. 2 Auburn, though the entire story of his season has included an unsettling chapter.
In many ways, Manziel has been where Winston is headed.
Lifes going to change, Manziel said. This is an extremely big deal.
Manziel basked in the spotlight after winning the Heisman and decided to live loud and large. His road trips made headlines. His tweets were analyzed. He got tossed from a frat party and overslept a meeting at the Manning Passing Academy. Real potential trouble came when the NCAA looked into whether he signed autographs for money. He got off with a half-game suspension.
Theres a lot of scrutiny if you dont walk a fine line, he said. I was a little bit uncharacteristic, a little bit out of the box, and I caught some flak for it. Figured it out a little bit as the year went on and continued to live my life and learn as I went along. It was tough, but I had to do it.
Manziels missteps seem quaint considering the allegations that Winston was facing.
Last month, a year-old sexual assault complaint against him became public, and the Tallahassee Police gave the dormant case to the state attorneys office for a full investigation.
A female Florida State student claimed Winston raped her. Winstons lawyer said the sex was consensual. The state attorney determined there was not enough evidence to charge Winston, announcing that decision four days before Heisman votes were due.
Winston says he felt vindicated, but also acknowledged needing to grow up some.
One thing that coach (Jimbo) Fisher has always told me, especially through this process: `For you to be a man, the kid in you must die, Winston said before winning the Heisman on Saturday. I believe that kid in me has died. Im always going to have my personality. Im always going to have my character. But I have to become a man.
Manziel said he was impressed with the way Winston handled his business on the field while dealing with problems away from it.
I had to go through controversy and I had to go through some things, Manziel said. To see him at such a young age, to put his head down and to focus on his teammates and where they are and where theyre headed ... I do give him a lot of credit for that with all the scrutiny hes under. I feel like hes done a tremendous job of focusing on his team and on his family and what matters most.
Manziel, a third-year junior, can declare for the NFL draft after this season. What could be his last game will be New Years Eve against Duke in the Chick-fil-A Bowl. In his Heisman follow-up season, Manziels passing stats improved as he stayed in the pocket more often. Both his completion percentage (69.1) and yards per attempts (9.5) went up.
If he does go pro and itd be an upset if he didnt hell again be the center of attention as one of the most scrutinized players in the draft.
The college game will belong to Winston, and Manziel said he should embrace his newfound fame.
Live it up. Enjoy it, Manziel said. Continue to be yourself and dont let anybody change from that. Youre going to have to adapt to how life is going to be after this.
Stay focused. Stay true to yourself and continue to be the person that you are.MORE IN Wire SportsCHARLOTTE, N.C. Full StoryYou might say the Minnesota Vikings are pondering a quarterbacking dilemma. Full StoryBEIJING Rafael Nadal made a dominant return to tennis after a two-month injury layoff, beating... Full Story
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- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: On this day in 1852, Henri Giffard demonstrates the first steam-powered airship, sailing 17 miles from Paris to Trappes; on this day in 1877, Japanese imperial troops crush the Satsuma Rebellion, Saigo Takamori dies in Kagoshima.
- TOMORROW'S HEADLINES TODAY: U.S. Rep. Peter Welch meets with Killington business owners, governor candidates debate, Gov. Shumlin discusses progress in anti-opiate campaign, Spanos trial venue moves to White River Junction.
- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: On this day in 1776, as Nathan Hale is hanged by British military authorities for spying, he utters his famous last words — or does he? In 1975, Sara Jane Moore attempts to kill President Gerald R. Ford in San Francisco.
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APPLETON, WI (WTAQ) - It's a health issue that's overtaking smoking as the number one killer in the U.S., and costs us more than $117 million dollars each year.
That issue is obesity.
In the three-part series above, Robin O'Brien of Appleton allowed WTAQ into her life to talk about her reasoning behind having bariatric surgery.
O'Brien had the surgery at Midwest Bariatric Solutions in Neenah, under the expertise of Dr. Ray Georgen and Dr. Kevin Wasco.


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|Our Nurse Navigator
Jacque Langford, our nurse navigator, is an experienced oncology nurse who is certified as a breast patient navigator in imaging and cancer through the National Consortium of Breast Centers. This means that she is specially trained to help you through treatment. She provides one-on-one support and guidance from the time of diagnosis through survivorship.
A large part of Jacque's role is care coordination. She communicates with your cancer care team and helps you and your family understand all the information presented.
Jacque will:
Jacque's story
When you're facing breast cancer, it's helpful to have the perspective of someone who's been there. That's why Jacque is uniquely suited to be our nurse navigator. Having watched her grandmother battle lung cancer and her mother battle breast cancer, she knows what it's like to be on the other side of the diagnosis.
Jacque's grandmother died of metastatic lung cancer when Jacque was a senior in high school. At the time, Jacque remembers wondering how she and her family could have helped. A few months later, Jacque started college and began heading down the path toward becoming an oncology nurse.
What does Jacque's certification mean?Being a certified breast patient navigator in imaging and cancer means that Jacque has studied the principles and best practices of patient navigation in-depth and has proved her knowledge of these standards. The National Consortium of Breast Centers requires individuals wishing to be certified to gain a minimum level of experience, do extensive self-study, and take an exam that tests what they know about navigation. In addition, those who receive the certification must maintain a required level of continuing education.


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Taffeta A-line Knee Length Tank Dress Style OP201
This item is available online only. *
Simple yet beautiful in design, this will be the perfect flower girl dress with perfect wear again potential!
A medium weight fabric with varying sheen used in bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses and prom gowns.
Used in various widths, lengths and fabrics, ribbons and bows are popular additions to bridal and special occasion fashions.
customers bought with this dress
*Color & Style representation may vary by monitor. Not responsible for typographical or pictorial errors. Product availability varies by store and online. Some in-store purchases require special order and markdown styles cannot be special ordered. Contact your local store for details.


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How to Play the Toy & Game Market
David is a member of The Motley Fool Blog Network -- entries represent the personal opinion of the blogger and are not formally edited.
Toys and video games have both been overly depressed in recent years due to an uncertain consumer market. However, the potential for large gains is now very real. Investors who are willing to buy now can outperform the market through zeroing in on stocks that have strong fundamentals, but have been beaten down from tough times. Ultimately, firms are valuable based on their future performance; accordingly, my recommendations below look to the future.
Activision (NASDAQ: ATVI) & Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: EA): Two Very Different Situations
Whereas Activision has seen free cash flow explode over the last few years, EA has headed into negative territory and is in the midst of trying to engineer a turnaround. At only 10.5x forward earnings, Activision is highly compelling given forecasts of 10.9% annual EPS growth over the next 5 years. To put this under context, consider that the low PE multiple over the past 5 years has been 13.4x, while FCF for the TTM ending 2012 has ballooned from $384.4 million in 2008 to $1 billion. Although there was somewhat of a decline from last year, business is good.
By contrast, EA has lost more than half of its 52-week high valuation and continues to be on a roller coaster, even after the general positive August stock reversal. Several factors give rise to Activision being more undervalued than EA today.
Activision has been successful in releasing a string of good titles. Starcraft, for example, has dissipated much of the concern over World of Warcraft churn. Second quarter performance was also solid, with management trumping EPS estimates by the double-digits. Call of Duty and Transformers also promise offsetting streams of subscription revenue. Furthermore, the top-line grew 50.8% from solid momentum in Retail and Digital Online revenues during the second quarter.
On the other hand, EA has failed to offset weak returns in the console gaming market with its sports franchise. It is precisely this inability to make up for weakness in one segment that makes EA an entirely different story than Activision. Especially under the context of it trying to turnaround the business, the ability to deliver results quickly is critical. If operations fail to "deliver", the company's financial woes will become even worse as creditors raise interest rates and thereby limit expansion opportunities. It also particularly disappointing that around a third of the business' total assets come from intangible goodwill. Accordingly, I recommend avoiding the stock and buying Activision as a way to go bullish on the video game market.
Mattel (NASDAQ: MAT): Like Activision, But With Barbies
Mattel has been one of my favorite stocks for some time now. Over the last 12 months, the stock has risen by 34.4% while paying off a 3.5% dividend yield to shareholder. What more could you ask for?
Compelling multiples of course. Mattel trades fairly reasonably at a respective 16.2x and 13.2x past and forward earnings. What really catches my attention, however, is the low bar that has been set by the Street. Analysts only forecast 8.4% annual EPS growth over the next 5 years, despite this being only slightly more than 100 bps greater than what was achieved in the preceding 5 years. Should Mattel be able to best forecasts, multiples are likely to expand.
Additionally, the company has seen attractive growth across all key geographies. Shipments rose for the quarter, and, most importantly, Mattel is gaining share in the infant/preschool doll and vehicle category. This will help it secure a market to sell products as consumers age into the kid years. Especially in the context of a full recovery, the upside looks compelling.
TakeoverAnalyst has no positions in the stocks mentioned above. The Motley Fool owns shares of Activision Blizzard and Mattel. Motley Fool newsletter services recommend Activision Blizzard and Mattel. 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.If you have questions about this post or the Fool's blog network, click here for information.


text: My second tattoo done by Stacey Martin over at Dovetail tattoo in Austin TX. This woman is amazing and I am completely in love with her work. If you get the reference to Harry Potter that I'm making here then you are brilliant and we should be friends! If you don't that's ok too. It's the grim in the teacup from The Prisoner of Azkaban. Also, yes, we did use a picture of my little Molly as a reference for the dog.


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with the Brass All-Stars Big Band: Rich Kelley, Jeff Connor, Jens Lindemann, Scott Thornburg, J.D. Shaw, Chris Cooper, Jeff Nelson, Jeff Stockham, Ed Clough, Joe Colombo, Scott Hartman, Mark Frost, Andrew Hitz, Dan Hostetler, Michael Bull, Bill DiCosimo, Matt Vacanti, Samuel Pilafian
Merry Stan Kenton Christmas! This unique collection of holiday cheer performed by the Boston Brass features the great Christmas charts from the Kenton Band plus two new ones by JD Shaw and Sam Pilafian. While these great arrangements are a big part of Stan Kenton Christmas Carols, they are only part of the story. The other part is the collection of players known as the Brass All-Stars Big Band. The brass quintet Boston Brass, one of the busiest and best known quintets working today, is the foundation for this extended group, and they are the ones that came up with the idea of doing a new recording of Kentonøs music. If you look at the names of the players, you will see amongst them many current or former members of Canadian Brass and Empire Brass. While there have been recordings made up of brass sections from major symphony orchestras, this one may be a first for the brass quintet world!
If you are interested in purchasing an individual track from this cd, visit
Please Note: There are more musical tracks on the recording than we are able to display
Format Available Single CD
Artist(s) appearing on this recording can also be heard performing on260 272 282 384 424 477


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Irritating chemicals, called caustics, are ingredients that can cause severe burns or injuries. Most caustics tend to be highly acidic or basic, depending on the ingredient's pH [a scale that determines whether a substance is acidic (i.e. lemon juice) or basic (e.g. baking soda)].
There are different ways we can expose our bodies to caustics:
There are some caustic tips to be aware of to help protect you or your family when you may be exposed to common strong caustics.
Swallowing a strong acid or base may cause injury to the lips, mouth, throat and stomach. Burns to the lips or mouth may result in swelling of the lips and white, patchy areas inside the mouth.
Sometimes the inside of the mouth may appear normal even though the throat or stomach may have been burned. Such "skipped burns" are more common with liquid products than solid products (e.g., powders) because liquids tend to have less contact time with the mouth.
Symptoms include:
If your child has ingested a caustic substance, follow the steps below and call The Poison Control Center.
Skin contact with caustics can cause mild to severe burns, depending on the strength of the product, the amount splashed on the skin and the duration of contact with the skin.
There are three types of burns you can get from caustic agents:
If a caustic substance comes into contact with your child's skin, follow the steps below and call The Poison Control Center.
Breathing in caustic products may cause irritation of the nose, throat, airways, and stomach. Severe exposures may even result in burns to the airways.
Symptoms of inhaling caustics may include:
People most susceptible to medical complications are those who inhale caustic fumes in an enclosed area for a long time and those with a pre-existing airway disease, such as asthma, bronchitis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
If your child has inhaled a caustic prduct, follow the steps below and call The Poison Control Center.
A caustic product splashed in the eye may cause pain, redness, blurry vision, and abrasions or burns to the protective coating of the eye. Fumes from a caustic product may also irritate the eyes.
In case of a caustic eye exposure, immediately call the Poison Control Center or your chid's physician, then follow the steps below.
Reviewed by: The Poison Control Center
Date: October 2013
Call our 24-hour toll-free emergency hotline
Hearing impaired