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10 who led us to the fiscal cliff
They fed our greed and guilt and told us we could have all the spending and tax cuts, too. While practically all of us had a role in this mess, these 10 stand out.
Brutus Said
Letting private citizens keep their own wealth is NOT socialism.
I would say tax loopholes, unfair deductions, taxx havens, lobbyists, lower rates, laws that help outsourcing are not socialism, your are correct.
Also I would say allowing companies to pay crappy low wages so that they qualify for government assistance is socialism, it is taking from the middle class and giving it to the top 2%, and the Chinese who get all the manufactoring jobs that used to pay better.
You can say get a better job but what job? There aren't any, they were sent over seas or visa's were issued so Mexicans could come and do jobs in the USA. Jobs an american won't do, ha, not for the poverty wages they pay!!!!!! Hell now illegals are building houses, they will work for less then half of what they would pay an American, how many jobs were lost there? Has the problem been fixed, not by either side!!!!!
It's called Capitalism when it benefits the wealthy and big business.
What are the Bush tax cuts for the wealthy, which combined with their tax havens, give the very wealthy one of the lowest effective tax rates in history -so low that many of the very wealthy pay a lower effective rate than many middle class workers pay?> It's Socialism for the rich.
Among other bags of trash issued as "news" by MSN Money employees, this diatribe ranks as one of the stupidist pieces ever. While Nutting himself is a goof, he has a supervisor who allowed more trash to circulate as credible journalism.
It is understandable Nutting wouldn't understand arithmetic, Econ 101, legislated sociaism, or legislative manipulation wrought by the tax code and compliance burden; so resorting to character assasination and character embelishment based on political emotion instead of historical reality becomes the basis of your work product.
Bill Gates net worth................. $53 Billion
All of our POLITICIAN"S are to blame for this mess. We cannot blame the voters, what choices did we have? Money controlled all of the elections, a person that could help this country was run over by the money machine to keep the BUM'S that are now in office keep there jobs. We don't hear anything about the POLITICIAN'S cutting there pay or benefits to help reduce the deficit, they want to raise taxes and cut MEDICARE and Social Security, something that the working stiffs have paid into all of there working lives. This country has gotten to be disgraceful, Politician's are only concerned about themselves and keep there life style the same. How do we get change when most of the POLITICIAN'S are MILLIONAIRES.
Why do we continue to support other countries when we can't afford to support our own?
The problem with this list is that it needs to be longer, Barney Frank, Chris Dodd & Ronald Reagon need to be on here.
Yes Reagon talked about cutting spending but he increased it dramatically. If you look at a chart of the debt it spikes again during his 2 terms.
Dodd and Frank had their hands all over the housing mess.
How about Nancy Pelosi & Harry Ried??????
Mitch M????????
All the top leaders of the last 3 decades should be on here, useless the whole bunch is, useless I say!!!!!
cutting rates did increase revenue. It is easy to look at with cap gains. In the last 30+ years we have had 4 changes to cap gains, 3 down and one up. All 3 times the rates were cut in 1981, 1997 and 2001(2003) revenue went UP. The one time rates were increased in 1987, from 20 to 28%, rates were lower for the next decade than 1986 revenue. Whoever did this article has NO CLUE.
Deficits have very little to do with taxes and mostly everything to do with spending. Look up revenue as a percentage of GDP since 1950 and its going to average around 18% no matter what the rate. The reason we had surplus in the late 90's was that was the lowest spending/GDP we have had since the 70's. Today we are spending 24% of GDP and no tax change up or down can cover that.
Unfortunately Washington doesn't get it either, but most of Washington is run by political dynasties exacerbated by both political parties buying votes and taking care of family dynasties, and family businesses, rather than providing the leadership and stewardship needed to ensure the survival and growth of our nation. Tax the rich, great propaganda line. If the President gets his tax hike on those making over 250,000 a year it will run the country for 8 days at the current rate of spending. What are we suppose to do for the 357 day that remain. We need to figure out how to get the big business to bring back our jobs. They already have the tax code rigged they are laughing at us and both parties work for them.
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[BRIEFING.COM] The stock market began the new trading week on the defensive note with small-cap stocks pacing the retreat. The Russell 2000 (-1.4%) and Nasdaq Composite (-1.1%) displayed relative weakness, while the S&P 500 lost 0.8% with all ten sectors ending in the red.
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YOU ARE INVITED TO MSUB ART STUDENTS' LEAGUE2014 ANNUAL ART AUCTION Friday / January 31, 2014 @ THE DOWNTOWN DEPOT 5:30 – 7pm: Silent Auction, live entertainment, hors' oerdeurves, open bar 7:00 – 9pm: Live Auction & Dessert Bar $50 per person / $500 VIP table LIVE AUCTION will include artworks from Andy Austin, Jean...Read More
Call for Art for the Silent Auction
This is an open call for students and people in the Billings community to submit their work for the silent auction during ASL's Art Auction on January 31st. You can submit work here. Remember all work must be ready to hang and framed if necessary for the type of artwork. Deadline to submit is...Read More
Denise Iris, Nov. 7th, 5pm
Denise Iris is presenting her work @ MSUB November 7th, 5-7 Denise Iris is a digital media artist and filmmaker from Brooklyn, New York whose work transforms everyday situations into heightened moments and imaginary worlds, offering a wry commentary on contemporary life. Art Students League is hosting a visit with Iris. She will be showing...Read More
Chicago Bound!
We are going to Chicago! March 1 – 4th, 2014 Art Students' League is raising money for our Spring Break Chicago trip! Some highlights of the trip - Christopher Williams: The Production Line of Happiness @ The Chicago Art Institute Christopher Wool @ The Chicago Art Institue The Way of the Shovel, Art as Archeology...Read More

subset: commoncrawl


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Rick and Shaye Sauers in 2005
Established in 1983 in Atlanta, GA, the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children (BTFC) was the first nonprofit organization in the United States to focus on pediatric brain tumor disease.
The mission of the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children is to provide financial assistance, social support, and information for families of children with brain and spinal cord tumors; fund research projects that improve treatment options and search for a cure; and raise public awareness of the disease and advocate on behalf of children who are affected.
In June of 1980, Rick and Sheila Sauers' five-month-old daughter Shaye was diagnosed with a highly malignant brain tumor. Offered only a two percent chance of Shaye's long-term survival, Rick and Sheila began a relentless campaign seeking knowledge and treatment to save their child. They found that very little information was available on brain tumors in children and little research was being done. The overall message was that most children died from this disease.
Together with several other parents, the Sauers began a local parents' support group to offer comfort and support to each other. In 1983, Rick Sauers, Julia Hartman, and several other parents established the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children, Inc., as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to help families like theirs and to educate the public.
Rick provided 23 years of service as a dedicated President and later Chairman of the Board. He currently serves as Chairman Emeritus in an advisory capacity. BTFC will forever be grateful to Rick for his wisdom and guidance and for his work in establishing the Foundation.
The Brain Tumor Foundation for Children is run by a volunteer Board of Directors and small staff. In addition to year-round local metro-Atlanta events, the Foundation's largest program, The Butterfly Fund, provides critical financial assistance for families throughout the southeast who are struggling with the effects of the disease on the family. BTFC has assisted countless children and families and funded many research projects since 1983, making a major impact on the pediatric brain tumor community.


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14 Costumes in 14 Hours
By Madeleine Cain
Most days, I'm just a humble bookseller. You might not even notice me at first, lost in the shelves, trapped behind a pair of thick reading glasses.
This isn't most days.
This is Halloween, and today, I can be anybody. Indeed, now that I have a brand-new pair of contact lenses, today I'll be everybody. My goal is to wear 14 different Halloween costumes — one every hour. It won't be easy; it took days of planning — packing my bags, layering my outfits, stashing accessories throughout the bookstore — but I think I'm ready.
On a day like today, everything can change.
The only thing I won't be changing today are my new contacts — with OPTI-FREE® RepleniSH® solution, I've got enough moisture to back me up all 14 hours.
I'll be jotting notes as I go — my trials and tribulations, my successes (and inevitable slipups), and all the reactions along the way.
Wish me luck!
Hour 1 (8am – 9am)
Costume: Hausfrau
Notes from the field:
Mud mask maybe not such a good idea — can't move face now that it's hardened. Speaking makes me look like a bad ventriloquist. At least my pores will be squeaky clean?
Wig w/ fake rollers is super itchy, and I'm getting heatstroke from the big, fluffy robe. And I thought this would be a nice comfy costume to start the day.
Ringing up customers in this getup very irritating. Someone asked if I was the Bride of Frankenstein. Thanks so much.
Hour 2 (9am – 10am)
Costume: Fisherman
Notes from the field:
Much better. Big yellow slicker cumbersome but easy to wear. Quickly ditched itchy beard (What do they make those out of? Rat hair?) when asked if I was God during the Great Flood. Guess a fishing pole would have helped.
Customer guesses now running 50% fisherman, 50% horror movie villain. Do they even wear rainslickers? Thought that was a flasher.
Hour 3 (10am – 11am)
Costume: Wizard
Notes from the field:
Am now very easy to find in the store among the bookshelves...just look for tall pointy hat. Wizard robes just as hot as bathrobe but more flattering w/ stylish bell sleeves. Wand doubles as backscratcher in a pinch.
Next person to call me 'Hermione' gets ballpoint pen in the throat.
When customers approached automatic door, waved wand & cried, "It's MAGIC!" Most severely underwhelmed.
Hour 4 (11am – 12pm)
Costume: Doctor
Notes from the field:
Very puzzled why doctor costumes always include big shiny thing on forehead — have never seen real doctor with such a thing. Would not trust any doctor that did.
Stethoscope fun excuse to examine cute coworker as I check his cardiovascular health. Diagnosed him with chronic heartache & prescribed 20cc of drinks w/ me after work.
Customers enjoying nametag... Fun to get help finding a book from Dr. Feelgood.
Hour 5 (12pm – 1pm)
Costume: Mad Scientist
Notes from the field:
Same coat, new nametag… Customers now getting help from Dr. Sinister. Big bright blue rubber gloves make typing difficult, lab coat caught in ladies' room door. Nobody said supervillainy was going to be easy.
Taken to laughing manically when customers hand over credit card. Got a talk from the manager.
Thick goggles remind me of my old reading glasses — don't think I'll be going back to those any time soon. Contacts still feeling great!
Clueless customer thought wild bird's nest wig was my real hair. Not sure how to take that.
Hour 6 (1pm – 2pm)
Costume: Construction Worker
Notes from the field:
Thank goodness, back in jeans and a t-shirt. Toolbelt very handy for carrying coffee & hand scanner. Considering clumsy nature, perhaps should start wearing helmet all the time.
Poorly shelved book glances off head minutes later, proving my point.
Best perk? License to wolf-whistle at cute co-worker. It's nice to be the one whistling for a change.
When register malfunctions, pretend to hit it w/ my mallet. Another glare from the manager.
Hour 7 (2pm – 3pm)
Costume: Cowgirl
Notes from the field:
With this costume have reached 33% Village People saturation. Alert the authorities!
10 gallon hat does not hold that much liquid. Or any liquid for that matter. At least mopping up the break room in spurs made me feel like a country song.
Was almost hoping for shoplifters, so I could try out my lasso. Instead, a little kid managed to steal my water pistol & squirt me in the face. I'm no Doc Holliday.
Hour 8 (3pm – 4pm)
Costume: Valley Girl
Notes from the field:
Can't believe this look was ever cool. Platform shoes, shoulder pads, leg warmers, headband — all in colors so bright even dogs can see them.
Enjoy costumes that come w/ funny accents, though. Bought an old brick-style cell phone & pretend to gossip with my gal pals. Coworkers starting to look at me funny (as if the first 7 costumes didn't do it).
Customers getting into it now, saying "gag me with a spoon" when I tell them their total. Tubular, dude.
Hour 9 (4pm – 5pm)
Costume: Firefigher
Notes from the field:
Dying of heat. Too uncomfortable to care about the irony even.
Firefighter coat way worse than fluffy bathrobe, and helmet not as light as you'd think. Had to borrow real coat from cousin. Couldn't have gotten much lighter costume version, nooooo. Had to be authentic.
Someone on staff thought it'd be funny to put "Burning Down the House" on the PA system for me. Wish I'd gotten the authentic axe to go w/ everything else.
Hour 10 (5pm – 6pm)
Costume: Ghost
Notes from the field:
Riding the bus home, thought traditional sheet-with-holes over clothes would be simplest. My mistake.
Unable to see my feet, I tripped on bus steps, falling into lap of booze-soaked crazy person muttering to himself about Elvis. Hope he doesn't think I'm his ghost. After all, Elvis is still alive, right?
Insult to injury: Passing kids called my costume lame. Feel a bit like Charlie Brown at Halloween. "I got a rock."
Hour 11 (6pm – 7pm)
Costume: Schoolgirl
Notes from the field:
Big improvement over the ghost. Little plaid skirt & pigtails a good look for me. Not very well designed for the fall weather, though, is it? Why don't they make sexy Eskimo costumes?
Bigger problem: Everyone thinks I'm supposed to be Britney Spears. Come on, guys — she's like 30 now.
Friends at dinner very appreciative of the look, however. Particularly James & Brad. Chewing's easier w/ your mouth closed, fellas.
Hour 12 (7pm – 8pm)
Costume: Nurse
Notes from the field:
Part of me thinks this seems like a demotion from my earlier doctor costume. Not sure everyone agrees, though — getting lots of looks at this party. Helllooooo, nurse!
Yet another costume not grounded in reality, though. When's the last time any nurse wore a little white hat or tights or a short white dress? Seems impractical, w/ all the blood & various other things that stain.
Took charge of handing shots out to partygoers: "Don't worry — this won't hurt a bit."
Hour 13 (8pm – 9pm)
Costume: Hippie
Notes from the field:
Feeling trippy, man. And I mean that literally. Between long fringed suede vest, beads, scarves and broomstick skirt have had many opportunities to catch myself on stuff. Already ripped skirt twice.
Still, I'm all about spreading the love — esp. since this exhausting experiment is almost over, and I'm almost down to my final costume!
Best of all, no need for my rose-colored glasses — my contacts are still flying high, 13 hours in!
Hour 14 (9pm – 10pm)
Costume: Vampire
Notes from the field:
Number of people offering to buy me a glass of blood: 4. Number of people talking to me in corny Dracula accent: 6. Number of guys who've asked to see my fangs: Countless thousands.
Still, you can't go wrong with a foxy vampire, right? Hope cute co-worker agrees… we're meeting for drinks after party.
As a creature of the night (and an OPTI-FREE® RepleniSH® solution convert), I may still have a few hours left in me yet!
Happy Halloween!
OPTI® eSTORIES is a place for eyes, of course - a forum for sharing tips and stories, for offering new vision and perspective, for discussing lifestyle and image, all through the window of our eyes. More than that, though, OPTI® is about celebrating the beauty within all of us, and the way our eyes can be just as unique as we are. Fun and feisty, elegant and soulful. It's all here. It's all OPTI®.
If you have any questions or comments about our articles - or a suggestion for future articles - we'd love to hear from you.
Adventure Girl in Italy
Adventure Girl and the Great Summer Escape
Up to My Eyeballs In It: Eye Disorders
Eye Errors with Iris Botcher #1
Eye Errors with Iris Botcher #2
Eye Errors with Iris Botcher #3
Up to My Eyeballs In It: Eye Exercises
Up to My Eyeballs In It: Lost Lenses
Twas the Day of the Party
14 Costumes in 14 Hours


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(WHAS11) -- John Calipari announced Archie Goodwin is leaving the University of Kentucky early for the NBA. He says Willie Cauley-Stein and Kyle Wiltjer will be back with the wildcats next season.
Goodwin was the team's top scorer, averaging 14 points per game. Cauley-Stein is a huge help defensively, and Wiltjer was named the SEC's Sixth Man of the Year.
Point guard Ryan Harrow is transferring to Georgia State, to be closer to his family.
UK says other players like Nerlens Noel and Alex Poythress will make their decisions "at a later date."
Want the latest Kentucky Wildcats news, scores and info? Get the Kentucky Sports app from WHAS11 on your phone. Choose your smartphone type below and have the link emailed or texted directly to your phone! The perfect app for Big Blue Nation from WHAS11!


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This is a group for anyone who lives in the New England area (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island) and wants to be able to network!!
Hoopers: 295
Latest Activity: Sep 6
Started by Heather Burditt Mar 8. 0 Replies 0 Likes
I'm looking to bring Matthias to Burlington, VT for a 2 or 3 day intensive workshop. Because of the distance that many of us will be driving, I'll probably push for the 2 day workshop. We're…
Tags: workshop, hooping, elliot, matthias, burlington
Started by Jules Feb 23. 0 Replies 0 Likes
Anyone around the Norwich area? i am the only flow artist around here & would love to get together with some hoopers!
Started by Luluhoops LLC. Last reply by Xandra Strauss Oct 30, 2013. 2 Replies 2 Likes
Hey everyone! My name is Lauren (Lulu) I own Luluhoops, based out of Fairfield, CT. I teach hoop fitness classes as well as Junior hoop dance in Fairfield County but need some quality- just for fun…
Tags: Connecticut, with, Luluhoops!, to, love
Started by Lindsey Beauchamp. Last reply by Nicole Stevenson Sep 13, 2013. 7 Replies 2 Likes
Anyone in the Burlington, VT area? Moving there in a few weeks and would love to connect with some lovely flow beings. I plan to hold many hoop jams on the water front and church street (:
Started by Vela Crux* Aug 23, 2013. 0 Replies 0 Likes
There are outdoor spin jams on Centennial Commons right outside of ruggles on the orange line on Fridays from 4:30 -6:30pm! See you all there!!
Started by Kailey M Aug 18, 2013. 0 Replies 0 Likes
Hey Hoopers!Visit my Facebook page to win a FREE hoop :)https://www.facebook.com/hipnotichooplahoopsAll you have to do is LIKE my page,…
Started by Nicole Scafura. Last reply by Nicole Scafura Jul 25, 2013. 10 Replies 0 Likes
Hi everyone! I just joined this website about a week ago. I have almost been hooping for a year and I would really love to start connecting more with the hoop community. I go to school at Univ. of…
Started by Lolli Hoops. Last reply by THE BEX* of *Sense of Motion Jul 17, 2013. 1 Reply 0 Likes
Hey Hoopers,just a reminder if youve been waiting to get tickets for Boston Summer Hoop Intensive, it is THIS WEEKEND! day passes on sale now! …
Started by Kailey M. Last reply by Kailey M Jun 20, 2013. 4 Replies 0 Likes
I'm pumped for phish at Saratoga this year! Any beautiful hoopers going to be there? Would love to meet up and hoop =)
Started by Valentina (Unity) May 23, 2013. 0 Replies 0 Likes
Hey New England Hoopers! Bags from the UK and I will be teaching in Maine and Boston this summer! The Boston Hoop Intensive is July 20 & 21 and also includes Bex and Lolli Hoops! More info can be…
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Looking for hoopers in the Southern VT area...
Hoola Hoopa Fest
Hula Hoop Festival/ Hoop Jam
Non-Profit (FREE) Community Event
Saturday, July 20th
11am - 8p.m.
Cochester, CT.
On The Town Green
Please go to my profile & look at my latest journal for more details.
New workshop on Wedgies & Escalators Saturday, June 1st in Salem, Mass! Check out the sampling of moves here =) http://youtu.be/Mgn2nqYohKk
New England Hoopers! I am so excited to announce I will be visiting Boston and Maine teaching workshops this summer with Bags from the UK! Woot! Facebook Event for Boston: https://www.facebook.com/events/431218156967356 and sign up link through the Boston Hoop Troop: http://www.bostonhooptroop.com/summer-hoop-intensive-2013.html
Facebook Event for Maine: https://www.facebook.com/events/162777610548450 and Sign Up Link: http://unityhoops.com/events/rockland-me
Hello! I am trying on my organizational hat and getting a jam together in So. NH. The skinny: Milford, NH on May 19 from 1-3pm at Shepard Park. I have never attended a jam or really hooped with anyone else and am craving some hoopy friends to inspire and dance with. Come on down if you can!!!!!! If anybody has any advice, I am all ear :)
The hoopers of UMaine, which campus? If any of you are in Maine for the summer we invite you to our free weekly outdoor jams in Westbook at Riverbank Park on Thursdays from 6-8 pm.
not sure this is the right place but...
any hoopers around Hudson, Stow, Marlborough? I know there are groups in Eastern MA and Western MA, but how about the middle? Would love to find some local hooping buddies
Hey Hoopers! I'll be teaching Discounted Private Lessons in Salem, Mass this Saturday 9/15 & next Sunday 9/23 to benefit charity! All skill levels welcome! http://www.facebook.com/events/348445658572369/
Welcome to
Hoop City - Hooping Community - a space for hoopers


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Ancient Egyptian Designs
Members' price *
Based on close observation of many types of artefacts from pottery to textiles, this visual anthology of over 300 designs and patterns reveals the variety and complexity of ideas employed over a period of 3000 years by the artists and craftsmen of Ancient Egypt.
Product code: cmc80618
Price category: Under £10
World culture: Ancient Egypt
Title: Ancient Egyptian Designs
Author: Eva Wilson
Number of pages: 128
Size: 276x219mm
Weight: 0.565kg
Standard UK delivery: 5 working days. Overseas times may vary
Every purchase supports the Museum
Free UK delivery on all BMP books (up to a maximum of 5kg).
Delivery charges for the rest of the world: are calculated depending on the weight (kg) and destination of the order.
Estimated Delivery times:
UK and Europe: 5 - 10 working days.
Rest of the world: 10 to 28 working days.
For more information, please see our full Delivery policy here
If for any reason you are not entirely happy with books and other products purchased from the shop, we will refund the value of the goods supplied. Please contact Customer Services directly on 0800 218 2222 (or from abroad on +44 (0)20 7079 0970) for individual advice.
Unfortunately we are unable to offer refunds or exchanges on pierced earrings for hygiene reasons, unless they are faulty.
For more information, please see our full Returns policy here
- Ancient Egyptian Designs
- £9.99
- Add to bag


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Mavis in the Psychic News
read this great article in the current edition of the Psychic News
Talking to Heaven - Alaska Cruise 2014
With Mavis Pittilla and James Van Praagh
Join Mavis and James on this voyage of discovery.
CLICK HERE for further details and booking information or CLICK HERE to download the brochure (PDF)
New CD - Words of Inspiration and Comfort
Have a listen to an audio clip from Mavis's new CD.
Words of Inpiration and Comfort - taken from The Spiritualist National Hymn Book.
This CD does not only provide words of comfort but also inspires our mediums.
CLICK HERE to purchase
Spirituality and Communication
A video Clip recorded at Banyan Retreat 14th September, 2013
The Latest News from Mavis
Read what Mavis has to say
Take a look at the Mentorship Page
Posted by mavis on 2013-06-10 11:54:56 CEST
Exciting news
Love Mavis
Love Mavis


text:
MSU is home to one of the most talented, creative, and hardworking student communities you'll find. Want proof? Our students come from all 50 states and more than 130 countries. They win championship titles and some of the world's most prestigious academic awards. They conduct research, study abroad, and take advantage of hundreds of student organizations and the more than 200 academic programs MSU offers.
Academic Resources & Services
- Academic Programs
- Career Services
- Course Schedules
- Degree Navigator Login
- International Student Support
- Internships@State
- Learning Resources Center
- Registrar
- Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities
- Service-learning
- Student Accounts
- Student Veterans Resources
- Summer Study
- Supportive Services
- Undergraduate Advising
- Writing Center


text:
Disclosure Says They Are Not Working With Madonna
They say a picture's worth a thousand words, but a recent photo of Madonna hanging out with Disclosure backstage at Governors Ball in New York City doesn't say any of the words you might have originally hoped.
Interview: Tiësto's World Cup Prediction and the Powerful Influence of Victoria's Secret Models
The Dutch DJ discusses a wide range of subjects, including which city has the world's most beautiful girls, '22 Jump Street' and his influence on fellow superstar DJ, Martin Garrix.
Arcade Fire Overstay Their Welcome to Crowd's Delight
Day 3 was all about rule breaking for Arcade Fire and Beck, while Lana Del Rey took it as an opportunity to debut her new single.
Lorde Collaborates with Disclosure on 2014 Brit Awards
Last month, Lorde teased that she'd be teaming up with Disclosure at the 2014 Brit Awards. And last night (Feb. 19), fans finally got to see the end result.
Bonnaroo 2014 Lineup: Kanye West, Elton John, Skrillex, Jack White
Bonnaroo will also feature performances from The Flaming Lips, Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, Kaskade, Damon Albarn, Neutral Milk Hotel and many, many more.
Best of New Music To Know 2013
This year, everyone and their mother was singing along to Lorde's anti-consumerist anthem "Royals," but the New Zealand teen wasn't the only new kid on the block who got us excited.
Noel Gallagher Praises Kanye & Bowie, Destroys Arcade Fire & Miley in Epic Year-End Rant
Gallagher's dead-eyed assessment of music in 2013 might just be the best (and most entertaining) year-end critique you'll read all year.


text:
I know a lot of you run small businesses so I wanted to share the article that I just wrote all about media kits with you. It covers what media kits are, why they're especially helpful for small businesses and the top 10 things to consider including in yours. Check it all out here and let me know if you have any questions!
Category Archives: Business & Marketing
A Call To Creatives: Follow Your Unique Path
Over the weekend, I met up with a long-time friend who just landed a way awesome job and is leaving Portland soon. We both started our careers with the same exact internship and I was so excited to hear the news. His climb up the ladder in the design world over the last few years has been nothing short of impressive. I thought about our conversation afterwards and asked myself why I didn't want the same thing. After all, a well-paying in-house design job at a cool company is the dream, right?
For six years, I freelanced and worked full-time at a lot of design studios and agencies. And I wouldn't trade that experience for anything. It was necessary for me to witness the inner-workings of how successful design businesses run on a daily basis in order to fully understand what it takes to keep things going.
But now, being on my own, I'm the most content I've ever been. I'm excited to get out of bed every morning to work with clients I love and feel a personal connection with. I'm excited to share new snippets of work on dribbble. I'm excited to have people on my team I admire like Star and Cathy, even though we're not physically in the same city. I'm excited to manage things and create a vision that feels authentic, evolving and modern. It's what I've wanted for a long time.
And that's what I realized: we each have to block out the outside noise and follow our own path. It took me until the age of 32 until I felt comfortable enough to launch Branch. I needed that time to grow into myself and gain the confidence that somehow, some way, everything would be okay. This path feels right for me for right now and if it doesn't in the future, I have the power to change it.
I know a lot of other designers that don't want the headaches of running their own businesses. They are happy working at a job that treats them well, pays them well and provides them with great benefits. I completely respect that because I wanted that same thing a few years ago. It's nice to not have any cares about work when you leave the office for the night. It's a very zen feeling to lock the door and leave your work behind. When you work for yourself, that work and to-do list is always chasing you.
Working for yourself is definitely an uphill battle. But it's a battle I'm more than willing to take on.
When it comes to your career, it's easy to look around and obsess about people that seemingly have something more than you. There's that someone that is younger, more talented and further along. But remind yourself that there's always going to be that someone.
As hard as it is to not get hung up on what the rest of the world is doing, you have to remember that you're on your own path. It really doesn't matter all that much what everyone else is up to. I didn't even finish my design degree until I was 27 and it made me feel like such a late bloomer compared with my peers — but I didn't let that stop me. I just worked harder because I wanted to be a graphic designer more than anything. I put in the time to get what I wanted. I worked a lot of jobs, some of which I loved, some of which I hated. But I learned something unique from each experience and it was worth it.
This post is a reminder to block out what everyone else is doing. If you want to work in-house or at an ad agency or for a small, family-owned business, cool. If you want to work for yourself, cool. It's all up to you. There's no right or wrong way to build your career in design.
5 Tips For Managing Multiple Businesses
Over the last year, I've launched two new businesses in addition to running this blog. Juggling three separate ventures isn't easy but I have a few simple tips to make the process smoother if you find yourself in a similar position!
1. Keep one set of books
Before I expanded my business ventures, I sat down with my accountant and asked him how I should structure my books. The thought of potentially keeping track of receipts and accounts across multiple businesses made my head spin! He suggested that I form one LLC (Limited Liability Corporation) and then create a DBA (which stands for "doing business as") for all of my additional ventures.
I took his advice and formed a business under my name, Shauna Haider LLC and then created a DBA for Branch and another for Nubby Twiglet. Since all are housed under my LLC, I now keep one set of books when it comes to taxes.
2. Keep an editorial calendar
Because I am now running two blogs, it's important for me to keep track of what to post and when to post it. I am constantly dreaming up new ideas and producing content and in the back of my mind, I'm always thinking about which blog it is most appropriate for.
Nubby Twiglet is my personal outlet with content revolving around design and lifestyle topics. Posts relating to personal style, home improvement, travel and advice live here.
On the other hand, the Branch blog is a place for my studio to post business-related content as well as design projects.
I keep detailed editorial calendars with outlines for the next month's worth of content for each blog as a safety net (though it often shifts for the day depending on my mood). Having that arsenal of ideas scribbled down keeps me from feeling like I'm posting on the fly and in turn, producing sub-par content.
3. Batch process as much as possible
Part of the reason I'm able to stay on top of multiple businesses is because I batch process a lot of smaller tasks. For blog posts, I'll often shoot all of the images I need for the week over a few hour block of time on the weekend and set up folders on my desktop for each.
When it comes to my design business, if I'm working with multiple new clients at the same time, I'll do visual research for both at once and produce any similarly formatted presentations on the same day. By mentally focusing on the same steps, I'm able to work much faster.
4. Link personal and business bank accounts
All of my personal accounts including savings and checking as well as my credit card and home mortgage are issued through the same bank. When I set up my business accounts, I made an appointment at my bank and had a separate set of accounts opened but had them linked in with the others. Now, I can log into my account online and see all of my balances across six accounts at the same time.
5. Don't be afraid to delegate
I've always had difficulty with delegating tasks. I tend to think that I can do it all (and do it well) but I've had to learn the hard way that this isn't always the case. Over the last year, I've gotten better at letting go. Joey now does all of our grocery shopping and runs most of our household errands so I can spend more time focused on work. A month ago, I hired my mom as the project manager for Branch. Just knowing that she's taking care of all of my business correspondence gives me peace of mind.
These five changes have saved me so much time and helped my sanity tremendously! Do you have any more tips you'd recommend to make running multiple businesses even easier?
Branch: An Inside Look at Starting A Creative Business
Last Monday, Branch went live. Less than two hours after flipping the switch, I rushed off to the airport to fly to LA for some client meetings and from there, straight to Palm Springs for Designer VACA. I barely had time to catch my breath, let alone explain the brand in more detail. Today, I'm sharing more insights on how I came up with the concept of the business, along with the nuts and bolts of the branding.
As I discussed last week, I knew that it was finally time to reach out and ask for help when it came to running my design business. In the year leading up to Branch, I'd co-launched The Blogcademy with Kat and Gala, was receiving many more freelance inquiries than I could possibly handle and struggling with the work/life balance on a daily basis.
I've always been tight with my immediate family — every time I talked to my mom and told her how I was having trouble keeping up with emails and scheduling, she'd offer to help me manage the administrative parts of my business. My brother, also a graphic designer, was beginning to see his photography career take off and had already been helping me shoot projects. I'd been working alongside Star since 2007 on web design projects. Joey had been doing paste-ups and print production since the late 90s. Everyone I needed to help me was already there, I just needed to put the wheels in motion.
Announcing: Branch, A Boutique Design Studio!
Today I have a big announcement to make about a personal project that I've put a lot of time and energy into: I'm officially launching a full-service design studio, Branch!
This shift in my career has come along partially out of a personal evolution and partially out of the fact that I had to admit to myself that my design business was bigger than myself. From the outside, it might seem like designers dedicate most of their days to doing design. But as time goes on, project management, research, keeping up with emails, blogging and social media takes up more of our daily existence. I know that a lot of other small business owners feel this creep as well. Pretty soon, you have to stop and ask yourself where all the time to create has gone. I did. Finally, I had to stop what wasn't working and take what was to the next level.
In The Beginning
As you probably know by now, I started my blog, Nubby Twiglet in 2001. At that time, I was active on Live Journal and blogging quickly became the creative outlet I desperately needed while in school for business. Six years into blogging, thanks to a heart-to-heart with my friend Star who insisted I needed to move my blog over to the WordPress platform, I relaunched here, in August 2007, on my own domain.
By that point, I was in school full-time for graphic design. As I finished projects, I shared them with my readers. Before I knew it, I was getting freelance inquiries. The more work I shared, the more work rolled in. It was a natural progression. Even as I worked at design studios, I kept my blog very active and built up my portfolio, spending nights and weekends wrapping up client projects. Nubby Twiglet had quite accidentally transformed from a lifestyle blog to a design studio as well. The thing is, that "design studio" was just me. This worked out wonderfully for the first few years — I was able to keep everything running smoothly and build my clientele without all the headaches that come along with managing other people.
Then, as the scope of projects grew and more inquiries than I could handle started flooding in, I felt a shift. And when I gave it some serious thought, that shift I was feeling was completely normal: it was part of my evolution as a designer.
I'd spent six years at design studios and ad agencies collaborating as part of larger teams and that was actually how I was most comfortable working. I liked bouncing ideas off of other people and I also liked being challenged design-wise by co-workers who were much better than I was. It forced me to grow and constantly pushed me out of my comfort zone. But with my freelance clients, which I worked with through Nubby Twiglet, I had to adjust back to managing everything myself.
My methods and work kept growing and then I saw the writing on the wall. That shift I'd been feeling but couldn't quite articulate became more apparent after launching The Blogcademy last August and working as a team, even though it was virtual. Once Kat, Gala and I had decided to partner up for our new venture, we got so much done in incredibly short periods of time. Having assigned tasks for each of the three of us upped the productivity dramatically and I saw the benefit once again of working as a team. I wanted that for myself but it didn't feel within reach at the time.
I loved design but seemed to spend most of my time answering emails and putting together proposals. I didn't want to live my life filling up my free time with administrative tasks. I had another heart to heart talk with Star, this time late one night in our shared hotel room during Designer VACA, trying to sort out my feelings about my business. I was doing exactly what I wanted to be doing with Nubby Twiglet, as I had for the past six years. But when we dug deeper, we were able to pinpoint my uneasiness: the twig had grown into a branch. To take things to the next level, I needed "branches" to get everything done. The business was bigger than I was. To move forward from there, I needed to admit that I couldn't do it all myself and be okay with that. It sounds easy enough, but when you're an overly organized control freak Virgo like I am, making that admission and letting go is incredibly difficult.
What I've since realized is that being brave enough to let go can lead to amazing things. That initial upheaval that comes with realizations about our businesses, relationships and ourselves has the potential to bring forth some of the best things into our lives. Now, everything feels right. My blog, Nubby Twiglet will keep on going as it always has. I've loved it since 2001 and I'm still excited to wake up every morning and publish new articles to share with all of you. The Blogcademy fulfilled my dreams of traveling and teaching. And now, Branch is the place where I'll have the opportunity to collaborate on design projects with my favorite people.
Today is launch day and as a full-service creative studio, I'm ecstatic to have a business that's finally bigger than myself. As a freelancer, I felt like it was my duty to answer every single email, fill out every single contract and manage all of the creative on my own. At Branch, I have the opportunity to design a whole lot more. And that is what I feel best doing. Thankfully, I didn't have to look far for help to manage the day-to-day administrative tasks. My mom, Cathy will now step in as a project manager and with over 30 years of management experience, she's a whole lot better at tackling spreadsheets, forms, receipts and emails than I am. Star, who coded my first ever blog back in the day and helped me make the idea of running a studio bigger than myself a reality, is joining me for web design duties. She also deserves some serious applause for pulling a week of nearly all-nighters to bring the site to life. Joey, my brother Carey and even Rocky will be involved (because every company needs a mascot). Needless to say, I love my branches.
If you have a project that you feel would be a good fit for us, we'd love to hear from you! Thanks for all your continued support. I am beyond excited for this new era of design, business and blogging.
Mastering Business Basics with the Computer Arts Design Studio Handbook
Computer Arts has been killin' it lately with their handbooks and the recently released Design Studio Handbook is no exception. Whether you're a creative that's always dreamed of running your own studio or you already are, this guide is for you.
This issue covers all the juicy business details that I've often found to be scarce in detail when searching online. Topics covered include what it takes to launch your own studio, managing money matters, how to be more efficient, how to win more work, the nitty gritty of dealing with clients, advice on building the perfect team, creating an awesome studio culture and more. Even better, a resources section is included in the back of the guide with links for startup advice, basic business information, the best design blogs, events and of course, books. Everything you need to acquire essential business savvy is at your fingertips. Pretty awesome.
In the first chapter about launching your own studio, that pesky document a lot of designers tend to skip over when launching their studios is right there, in a very simple breakdown: the business plan. With the design industry becoming increasingly competitive, this is a must-have. What I like most about their explanation of what to include is that all the jargon is cut out — which, if you've ever researched business plan how-to's, is definitely the exception. Funding is also covered, as well as how to make your business legal.
Next up is money. Most of us creatives hate talking about it because it always feels a little dirty, like we're admitting to not just doing a project for the sheer love of it. There's no escaping it, though and the better informed you are, the better you'll be able to manage your bottom line and heed off potential disasters. Setting rates is always a struggle — do you charge the same for a similar project scope but for very different clients? How do you build in pricing that takes into account your reputation and experience? This is all covered, including the basics of balancing the books (ugh)! Oh, and project management software options are also recommended.
As a studio, if you want to be profitable, efficiency is key. Time is money and the more efficient you can make your processes, the more time you'll have to focus on the creative side of your business (which is what we all really want, right?) Understanding the basics of creating an automated workflow that functions in a similar manner for all of your clients is so important — the more informed they are, the easier it will be to manage their expectations and avoid disappointments.
Without new work, your studio will grow stagnant. But the process of how to win it can be a little fuzzy. This guide details how to spot opportunities and what to consider for your pitch. Pitching takes a lot of research, polish and confidence and it's important to know what to include so you have the best shot of winning.
And without clients, your studio wouldn't exist so it's important to take care of them. After all, word of mouth is a powerful thing and happy clients create happy referrals. Managing expectations and giving them what they want (before they even know it) is key. The basics to building long-term relationships are covered and I especially agree with the tip to "become irreplaceable." That, my friends, is key. But not all client relationships are meant to work out — understanding how to choose them wisely and recognizing red flags will take you far.
Finally, for a studio to grow, it takes a team. Understanding how to expand it in a healthy, flexible manner will keep you from becoming overextended both mentally and financially. With employees comes a whole set of laws so understanding what you're responsible for before you get in over your head is also important. And, once you have a team in place, you need to take steps to keep it (thank god that's covered as well)!
I adore these guides (remember, I covered the Design Student Handbook a few months back?) because the information is very straightforward and avoids fussy language that only accountants and lawyers can understand. I love that these issues are written by creatives for creatives. Computer Arts constantly knocks it out of the park — while beautifully designed, their publications are never just about the 'pretty' — I always feel like the business side of design is demystified and for that, I'm forever grateful.
Images: Computer Arts Design Studio Handbook.
5 Tips To Jump-Start Your Post-College Design Career
'Tis the season for graduation! But beneath all the anticipation and excitement, I have been receiving a number of nervous emails from freshly minted design grads looking for ways to carve out their post-college careers. Most of us have been in that boat as well and I know how stressful it can be so I've compiled some tips to help make the transition smoother.
1. If full-time work is your goal but you don't have a job lined up, try placement agencies.
I've worked with both Aquent and 24 Seven in the past and have had fantastic results with both. Placement agencies are great for a number of reasons. If you've never been to one, here's what happens: first, you're interviewed by an agent and they review your portfolio in-depth to determine your skill set. From there, it's their goal to place you in jobs that they feel are the best possible fit. They have a good reason for wanting to keep both you and your employer happy: for each hour you work, they earn a commission.
Through placements, I was able to get into a number of boutique design studios and even Nike. The experience I gained was incredibly valuable and by moving around, from the tip of corporate America all the way down to 10 person studios, I learned a lot about how the design industry functions in a really short period of time. By trying on different hats, you become much more adaptable to varying management and design styles and I would argue, more valuable as a designer.
With placement agencies, since the work isn't consistent (unless you get offered a contract), you tend to get paid substantially more than you would at a full-time position. I had times where I would get booked for two days but I can tell you that if you're a good fit, they will find a way to make room for you. One particular short-term gig I had turned into an entire year! And if the company loves you, there's a chance that they will offer you full-time employment.
Placement agencies are a great way to test the waters, especially if you're still finding your way and settling into a niche. You're able try out a variety of places and determine what works best for you (Agency or in-house? Digital or print? Design or production?) And if things don't work out, that's okay, too. Your agent can help you with parting ways gracefully and it's a lot less painful than quitting a full-time job.
2. Before you reach out, whip that portfolio into shape!
When I graduated in 2008, print portfolios were absolutely mandatory. I know that since then, a lot of job seekers have switched over to digital portfolios exclusively to showcase their work. While I do use my iPad for supplementary work, I still have a print version. Maybe I'm old school but I know that a lot of the people I meet with are older than I am and appreciate the time and energy it takes to put together a print portfolio. I limit mine to 10 to 12 projects max and then share a larger variety on my iPad if they request more samples. If you're curious, here's a peek inside the last print portfolio I did.
While my print portfolio is very tightly edited, my digital portfolio is much more broad. I love Cargo for its ease of use and very reasonable fees. The pre-made templates are fantastic and with a little CSS magic, you can refine them further. I'm working on a full website to house my projects (more on that later!) but in the meantime, Cargo has treated me well over the last two years. Also, Squarespace has some beautiful template options, too.
3. Nail the interview basics.
We've all heard tips for nailing a great interview from friends, family and industry professionals enough times to feel like they're one big cliché. Show up on time! Dress the part! Act enthusiastic! We know, we know! UGH!
But seriously, all of these small things combine to make an unforgettable impact. I've been on dozens of interviews and can vouch that most run incredibly smoothly — most creative staff were once in your position and remember that nervous, uncertain feeling well. As long as you move through your portfolio quickly, they are usually incredibly accommodating.
But, there's always those curveballs when we least expect them and that's where practicing these tips comes into play so you can remain graceful under fire! There was one interview that I'll never forget: it was so intense that I felt like I'd been transported to the O.J. trial. I kept thinking, "I'm being interviewed for a job so why does it feel like an interrogation?!" Even so, I made it through, smiled, shook the interviewer's hand and thanked him for his time. And then quickly left. Always keep your cool! My 11 tips for acing your next design interview can help you get started.
4. Knowledge Is Power.
I'm always reading books about my field in an effort to stay current with design trends, strategy and business. My top three picks for highly valuable insight on breaking into the industry are:
A. How to Be a Graphic Designer without Losing Your Soul by Adrian Shaughnessy
I found this book to be hugely beneficial when I was first starting out — it's simple, relatable and immediately applicable. And that's exactly what I needed.
B. Work for Money, Design for Love by David Airey
I love the smooth flow of this book, from beginning to end. It's so rare that hugely successful designers open up and share the inner workings of their businesses along with detailed insights of their processes.
C. Design Student Handbook by Computer Arts
Looking for a guide that covers all the nitty gritty of prepping a killer portfolio and breaking into the design industry? The Design Student Handbook is for you. I wish there was something like this on the market back when I graduated!
5. Blog about your projects. Always.
When I was first starting out, I used my blog to share all of my new client work. The good, the bad and the ugly made its way up for the world to see and each project I shared brought in new prospects.
Getting comfortable with sharing my work was hugely beneficial in getting my foot in the door at a number of design jobs because I'd already developed my voice and style very publicly. It can be scary putting your work out there but it's something you have to get accustomed to because you never know who's reading it. A good example: In 2009, I was three days into a Nike contract when I got called into my department manager's office. I thought I'd done something terribly wrong and was getting fired! Instead, he said he'd recognized me from my blog and wanted to know if I'd be interested in permanent positions.
If steady work doesn't pop up right away post-graduation, your blog can be a great way to drum up freelance work. And who knows, you might be so successful at it that a full-time job becomes a fading memory. Oh, and don't forget to share those in-progress snippets on dribble and your glowing final outcomes on Behance.
Graduates, I know it's not easy but view each opportunity (no matter how small) as a learning experience and with time, your path will unfold. Good luck on your new, exciting journey!


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World Wetlands Day 1998 in Canada
What is World Wetlands Day? At the 19th meeting of the Standing Committee, in late October 1996, World Wetlands Day was officially designated for 2 February of every year, the anniversary of the signing of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 1971, as an opportunity for governments, organizations, and citizens to undertake big and small actions intended to raise public awareness of wetland values and benefits in general and the Ramsar Convention in particular.
This page is part of a series of reports on activities held on and about WWD '98 in various countries of the world, as reported to the Bureau. If you should know of any other activities not mentioned on these pages, send us a note (firstname.lastname@example.com) and we'll add it to this list.
See also our earlier list of activities reported as planned for WWD '98, a repository of inspiring ideas in itself.
Clayton Rubec of the Canadian Wildlife Service reports briefly on the WWD festivities led by the Wetlands Research Centre, University of Waterloo . . . .
WWD in Waterloo was a success. The day sessions involved over 350 local high school students. The Lt. Governor of Ontario, Hillary Weston, spoke on youth and the environment. The students were then able to split into groups and participate in workshops on local wetland water, planning and ecosystem workshops. Professor Edward Maltby gave an inspiring lecture on the opportunities facing global wetlands and ecosystem conservation. A separate evening session saw over 250 members of the public participate also. Heads of local education boards, industries, municipalities, consulting firms participated as well. It is hoped WWD will become an annual event in Waterloo and elsewhere. The participants after this evening session attended a reception where World Wetland Day wines bottled by Pelee Wineries were sampled.
From Ducks Unlimited Canada . . .
The Ducks Unlimited gala fund raising event to celebrate World Wetland Day was an outstanding success. The Minister of Natural Resources, the Honourable Glen Cummings, was the event patron. One hundred and seventy five representatives from Manitoba's private business community attended and "Corporations for Conservation" Awards were presented to the Royal Bank of Canada and Monsanto Canada to recognize their outstanding support for conservation education and habitat preservation. All funds raised at this event will be directed to Oak Hammock Conservation Centre education programs.
For more information about Ducks Unlimited and Oak Hammock please contact <http://www.ducks.ca>. Cheers, Ron Coley, Chief Engineer and Wetland Project Specialist, Ducks Unlimited Canada
From Newfoundland, Heather Chaulk writes. . . .
World Wetlands Day '98 was a hit in Newfoundland. The Eastern Habitat Joint Venture in Newfoundland focused its attention on the province's only Ramsar site, the Grand Codroy Estuary, and held a reception in the offices of the Codroy Valley Area Development Association. Representatives of the development association, the regional economic development board, and the Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, members of the press, and the Minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, Mr. Kevin Aylward, attended the presentation of two mounted waterfowl to the Area Development Association. These mounted waterfowl will start off the display for the wetland interpretation chalet that has been built by the development association. A non-intrusive trail is being developed along the estuary and there are plans for an observation platform that will overlook McIsaac's Marsh, a critical wetland within the estuary. Following the reception, presentations were made to grades kindergarten through nine at the local school, Belanger Memorial, where a Grade 9 teacher is using the Grand Codroy Estuary Management Plan for a project in his social studies class. An enthusiastic response was received from the students during discussions regarding the value and importance of the wetlands in their backyard and ways that they could contribute to wetland conservation.
For more information on the EHJV in Newfoundland, contact Heather Chaulk, EHJV Wildlife biologist <firstname.lastname@example.com>


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VIEWPOINT: DIAGNOSIS: AUTISM A Family's Journey to Obtain Effective Treatment
- Marissa Bennett
"It's very apparent to us that this is autism." The developmental pediatrician's words hit me like a nuclear bomb as I sat in the examination room cradling my 19-month-old son. I wanted to run far away with my son in a futile attempt to protect us from everyone, and from the autism that loomed ahead of us like a dark storm cloud.
After performing a battery of diagnostic procedures, the professionals who made the diagnosis recommended that we immediately place Justin in their therapeutic nursery program. The program treated children with various disabilities and, at the time, we didn't realize that there were any other options available to us. We were assured by the professionals that this was the appropriate placement for our son.
In the months that followed, we faced frustrating obstacles and heartbreaking decisions. The process of securing an accurate second opinion was fraught with misdiagnoses by several professionals of varying disciplines. We discovered it was necessary for us to become "immediate experts" in the field of autism, since the professionals to whom we turned for information lacked even a rudimentary knowledge of autism and its treatment options. We then had to address the challenge of securing appropriate and beneficial treatment for a condition we knew nothing about and received no treatment guidance for; all the while, we as parents were enduring the agony of grieving the loss of our "normal" child before he was barely a child. We felt that we were racing the clock, as every day our beautiful little boy slipped further away from us, and from the typical development he had displayed just a few short months before.
Justin floundered in his nursery program. The program was staffed by a very attentive special education teacher and two aides assigned to eight children. Speech and occupational therapies were also provided. However, my son preferred isolation and engaging in bizarre behaviors over group activities like circle time, singing songs and doing arts and crafts. Justin's discomfort with the school environment and being separated from me would cause hours of crying. As the other children began to make progress, it seemed that my son had not benefited from intervention at all. I remember thinking that I wished Justin needed such little help as was available in his nursery program. It was very apparent that Justin needed "something else" that was "more intensive," but I had no idea what that something else was.
We continued researching autism and treatments. We reviewed every autism program in our area and, later, the country. Unfortunately, the process became even more complicated: every question we asked was answered differently by different people, which led us down more paths to be explored. I felt the injustice of not only having to deal with the diagnosis of autism, but also that we needed to become detectives as well. There were no professionals or organizations to guide us. We were told things like, "You're the expert when it comes to your child. You will know best as to what type of intervention you feel is right for him and your family." I was aghast that the investigation and direction of treatment was being placed so squarely on our shoulders. Surely we were not the first family to deal with autism. I wondered: if our child had a terminal illness, would the recommendations for course of treatment be so subjective and elusive, or would professionals prescribe treatment proven to be effective? We were desperately looking for experts to guide us. This child was our world, and we were willing to move heaven and earth to help him, but no one could show us the way.
The literature I found was grim. Little was known about autism as a disorder, except for the symptoms individuals displayed. Outdated books and articles yielded even less in the way of treatment breakthroughs; outcomes were expected to be institutionalization, and crippling, lifelong impairments. In an effort to help evaluate early intervention programs, I began to ask for statistics on how many children with the diagnosis of autism had been successfully mainstreamed into public schools. I was told no such data were compiled. How were we to judge a program's effectiveness in treating our son's disability if we had nothing more than the assurance that the program was the appropriate placement? Even more serious, how were providers able to judge their own program's effectiveness, and where was any measure of accountability?
Eventually, I came across an article about a center-based program for children with autism that utilized the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA). The article went on to quote the program's statistics of successful transitions for some of the children to less restrictive environments. At last we felt that we had stumbled onto a promising path.
I gradually began to learn that ABA as a science had been used to teach and treat children with autism for the last 30 years with some very promising, documented results. I also discovered that while the science of ABA does not involve invasive procedures like surgery, it requires as much academic and clinical preparation of practitioners as any specialty in the medical field. I didn't fully understand the science of ABA at the time, but realized it was the only treatment that could offer us scientifically valid outcome data and, because of that, we needed to pursue it for our child.
By utilizing ABA, first privately and eventually in a center-based program, Justin finally began to flourish. As we became more educated about ABA, it made complete sense to us that Justin was able to make such immediate and significant progress. His program was individualized to define goals designed to address his specific deficits, and to build new skills. Each goal was broken down into incremental, measurable steps. As each increment was mastered and then combined, it enabled him to master the "building blocks" for each goal. By using daily data to chart his performance, accurate decisions could be made regarding the direction of his programs. ABA was an incredibly effective way to teach Justin everything in his life, literally, aside from breathing.
Because nothing came "naturally" for Justin and he did not learn by watching others, every skill needed to be taught to him. Since he seemed to lack language comprehension (both verbal and non-verbal), Justin was unable to follow spoken directions. This also meant that before using ABA, we had no accurate way to measure how much of the world Justin was able to comprehend. By utilizing ABA programs, however, my son was able to master goals like imitating others and following directions. He also achieved a marked increase in both his receptive and expressive language. He was taught to utter sounds, then blends, then words, and finally sentences. This was done in conjunction with learning to comprehend what he is saying, as well as what is being said to him. In addition to academic goals like reading, writing and mathematics, Justin also needed to be taught basic self-help skills like using the bathroom, brushing his teeth, going to sleep at night, remaining asleep until morning, bathing and dressing. As a parent, perhaps the most difficult thing for me to accept was that my son had to learn how to tolerate interaction with people, and to receive and reciprocate affection and love.
By using ABA as a teaching and treatment method, Justin continues to broaden his life and that of our family in very constructive ways. Thanks to ABA, he is able to tolerate getting his hair cut, and going to the doctor and dentist. He is learning to swim, and now enjoys outings to the movies, mall and the homes of family and friends. My son has learned how to learn.
Justin is now 9 years old and, unfortunately, remains a child acutely impaired by autism. He is a verbal child, able to express his basic wants and needs, yet he is not what one would consider conversational. My son cannot tell me about his day, or if he feels ill. We can't talk about his fears or share our hopes and dreams, but we do share an incredible love for each other and, despite autism, are able to enjoy a beautiful relationship. My son's autism has not been cured, but he continues to make significant progress. He has benefited immensely from the course of intervention we have chosen for him. While our life is by no means easy or typical, we are not devastated by the obstacles that come our way. We know we can develop a strategy to assess the situation, and to teach Justin whatever skills are necessary to address and overcome the problem. We feel Justin's best chance of maximizing his potential will come from letting science lead us. By choosing science for Justin, we now have the security of knowing that we are doing everything we can to help him become the best that he can possibly be.
As a mother who loves her child absolutely, and wishes only the best for him, I support credible research into the possible biological causes and cures of autism. However, I also need to know that I am enabling my child, through effective, science-based treatment, to reach his fullest potential now, under our present system of knowledge. That is my peace of mind.
This article originally appeared in an issue of "Science in Autism Treatment", the newsletter of the Association for Science in Autism Treatment (ASAT). It may not be republished or reprinted without advance permission from ASAT. For reprint permission please contact email@example.com


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THP Bologna Reviews
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An ex-4 stars (now 3 stars) hotel at an excellent price. There is a swimming pool at the hotel, but you have to inquire if it is actually in use when you go there. The hotel is on the outskirts of Bologne and you spend some time to get there and back to the city center.
- Globetrotter
- Anonymous
- Germany
- Mixed Group, 25-30
- (48 reviews)
Excellent staff, clean and comfortable rooms. The only thing was the toilets of the public restrooms on the basement were quite dirty. The rest was perfect.
- Novice Nomad
- Anonymous
- Colombia
- Male, 25-30
- (1 review)
The directions the hotel sent us said to take two buses and it was easy to find. It did not mention, however, that the buses stopped running at 9pm. We got in at 10 and sat at a random bus station for an hour. We didn't speak Italian so asking people did nothing to help. When we finally paid to get to the location by taxi, there was no hostel. We went into another hotel and were informed that it was outside of Bologna and paid another 40 euro to get there. The staff said it wasn't their problem.
- Novice Nomad
- Anonymous
- Female, 18-24
- (1 review)


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Traveller Carbon Komperdell
Traveller Carbon Komperdell: Camera mount system pole can be changed into a tripod: screw the detachable full grip off and screw the camera on, Done!
Traveller Carbon Komperdell Specs:
- Strap band
- 4-section foldable pole
- Upper section Titanal. HF, Lower section Carbon
- Trekking ice basket and trekking ice tip
- Power Lock II System
Traveller Carbon Komperdell Size: Packed size: 49 cm, maximum length: 145 cm, adjustable from: 115–145 cm
Traveller Carbon Komperdell: New ingenious folding-mechanism.
Traveller Carbon Komperdell: 3-YEAR Komperdell Warranty - a 3 year repair service, free of charge, for all telescopic poles.
In stock items will ship within the next business day. Available item(s) is/are available to order. Most available items will ship within 9 business days, sometimes the process is faster and of course it will ship to you ASAP. There might be some exceptions, example: supplier is out of stock or manufacturing delays. If you have any doubt your item is in stock please call us at 303-984-4649.
For shipping rates and/or international shipping rates and policies, please click here.
If you placed an order at 123Mountain and you don't like it just send it back for a refund, applicable for the item not shipping costs*. Ship it back and as long as your item is in unused condition with original tags, boxes, etc. Please follow the steps at Return Policy Page.
No returns on sale / promotional / discounted item(s).
* Even if the shipping was free we paid the carrier for the service provided and we will deduct $7.95 for Economy, $12.95 for Ground, etc.
Not stoked on your gear? Looking to return it? No problem, we have an Unlimited Return Policy as long as item(s) is/are in UNUSED CONDITION. We try to guarantee complete satisfaction with unlimited lifetime returns. If at any time - now, next month, in 30 years - you're not 100% satisfied, send your gear back for a refund. No questions asked. Check out Return Policy Page here. No returns on sale / promotional / discounted items, though.
PRICE MATCH WARRANTY x 2!
We need your help to always make sure 123Mountain has the best prices! You may even benefit in the process. If you find an identical product at a lower price and in stock through another online site we will refund two times the difference.
Here's how it works:
• Place the order on 123Mountain.com at our current price.
• Email us within 24 hours that you are requesting a price match, including a link to the site where you saw the lower price.
• We will adjust the price and take care of your refund.
For further information please go to 100% SATISFACTION page.
We offer three types of membership; Elite, Premium and Standard. Each membership group has fantastic advantages everything from store credit to an extra 10% OFF and FREE shipping.
Find out more which membership level that fits you the best, click here.


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Customize any bike with these versatile light kits Features: -Sold in pairs with mounting hardware Not D.O.T. approved
(based on 8 reviews)
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
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Reviewed by 8 customers
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(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
Great Universal Signal Product
By Chaotic
from College park, MD
See all my reviews
Comments about BikeMaster Universal Flush Mount Marker Light Kit:
Replaced my OEM stalk-y turn signal for these flush mounts, covers right over the hole. Does have a slight bulk look, but works just the same.
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
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Good Price, Good product
By Jalp
from Milwaukee
These turn signals are perfect for just about any application as a front turn signal. They come with all the hardware as well as double sided tape. Only downside is there is no connection for the constant on type lights. these are strickly turn only. Good parts though.....
I would suggest buying
By E Double
from Pgh,PA
Put them on my zx9r & they look great on the bike!!
New Directiom
By gbauto
from Young Harris GA
I used these to replace a broken rear turn signal on my '12 KLX250. They fit well and offer a bright light but the bulbs that come with the lamps blew out within a few hours of use. Other than that, I am very satisfied.
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