text:
To celebrate the Fall Equinox today, change your energy with the change of seasons! Attract great things with our FREE Personalized Feng Shui Report Sample.
Today's Horoscope by Rick Levine
You might feel the stress today as you try balancing your work with the emotional needs of friends and family. Although you cannot walk away from your job, responsibilities may be calling you back home. Schedule your time in advance so you can divide your efforts between your personal and professional commitments. In the meantime, let others know that you're simply doing the best you can.
Already a member? LOG IN NOW
Your Free Horoscope Is…
Whoops! We can't calculate your personalized horoscope without your birthdate. Login or create your profile to get your horoscope and advice for today!create my profile
Already a member? LOG IN NOW
What's on your mind?
Top Stories
Glad You Made It!
Embark on a journey of wisdom! From daily horoscopes and free Tarot readings to Astrology, I Ching, Numerology, and more...
Get Fresh Perspective on Love
Happiness is ALL about how you look at things ... especially in matters of the heart! Open up your heart and change your outlook with a Happily Ever After Tarot reading.
Welcome the Fall!
Embrace the change in seasons with a change in your life! We've put our super popular Personalized Feng Shui Report on SALE for 40% off through September. The possibilities are endless!
The Abundance of Fall Abounds...
Autumn inspires us to turn inward and reflect on where we are -- and where we are going. Set positive intentions for fall with a Timeline Tarot reading today!
Weekly Astrology: Sept. 22-28
Lighten up, take a risk, and open yourself up to new partnerships this week! There is plenty of incredible cosmic energy in store, and you don't want to waste it!
Today's News
New Moon in Libra Horoscopes
Birthdays on the Virgo-Libra Cusp
Pluto Direct
The Gift and Curse of Natal Astrology
Planet Tracker
Moon in Virgo
Sep 21, 2014 to Sep 23, 2014
Sun in Libra
Sep 22, 2014 to Oct 23, 2014
Mercury in Libra
Sep 1, 2014 to Sep 27, 2014
Venus in Virgo
Sep 5, 2014 to Sep 29, 2014
Mars in Sagittarius
Sep 13, 2014 to Oct 26, 2014
Jupiter in Leo
Jul 15, 2014 to Aug 11, 2015
Saturn in Scorpio
Oct 5, 2012 to Dec 23, 2014
Uranus in Aries
Mar 11, 2011 to May 15, 2018
Neptune in Pisces
Feb 3, 2012 to Mar 30, 2025
Pluto in Capricorn
Nov 26, 2008 to Mar 23, 2023
Free Readings & Reports
There's an easy way to get readings & reports for FREE!GET A FREE READING


text:
GreatSchools Rating
Teacher quality
Principal leadership
Parent involvement
scott middle is a really good school when it comes down to teaching and letting us be teens and pre teens be teens... if i could go back to scott i would
This has to be the worst school my child has ever had to attend... The teachers, office staff and principals leave much to be desired.. although they say they have no tolerance for bullying, that is not the case at all. We moved to this town with high hopes for a new future, sad that our child is not getting the education he deserves while struggling with bullying... in my opinion it is a horrible school and if you are fortunate to live in this town and have your child attend a different middle school, take full advantage of the opportunity. We were not offered a different choice. -Submitted by a very concerned parent
I do not recommend this school. Teachers, principals and office staff leave much to be desired. Unbelievable were the many things my daughter would come home and reported to me had happened at school.
Its ok though I miss all the events at my old school nothing happens here no feild trips or dances we have one coming up but a lot of other school have already had 3 or 4 and I feel the teachers treat the BAD kids better than the GOOD ones plus its unfair some things they fuss some kids about they don't fuss others and there isn't much school spirit and staff doesn't help increase it plus at Lunch it feels like I'm in bootcamp being rushed around so much
Scott Middle is a good school. I had a lot of problems this school year as I wanted to be real involved with my child but the teacher and counselor did not want me to be. I was told to stand back and not help her.
Community ratings and reviews do not represent the views of GreatSchools nor does GreatSchools check their accuracy or verify the reviewers' identities. Use your discretion when evaluating these reviews.
The Community Rating is the school's average rating from its community members (e.g., parents, students, and school staff). The highest possible rating is five stars; the lowest is one star.
116 Marie Street
Scott, LA 70583
Website: Click here
Phone: (337) 521-7930
To start a new list, click OK. Otherwise click Cancel.
Thank you! You will begin to receive newsletters from us shortly.
Great work! Only one more step. Now we just need you to verify your email address. Please click on the link in the email we just sent you to complete your registration.
Great work! Only one more step. Now we just need you to verify your email address. Please click on the link in the email we just sent you to submit your review.
Please click on the link in the verification email we just sent you to complete your change of email address.
Whoops! It looks like we still need to verify your email. To do so, please click on the link in the email we sent you. Can't find the e-mail? Click the button below and we'll send you a new one.
Thanks for registering. Welcome to GreatSchools, the largest online community committed to improving educational outcomes through parental involvement.
Thanks for verifying your updated email address.
Oops! You haven't verified your email address yet. To do so, please click on the link in the email we sent you. Can't find the email? Click the button below to receive a new one.
Oops! That email verification link has expired. Please click the button below to receive a new one.
Create an account to submit your answers.
Sign in with an existing GreatSchools account or using Facebook:
Your review has been posted to GreatSchools.
Share with friends! Post your opinion of Scott Middle School on Facebook.
Welcome to GreatSchools!
For principals and school officials, we offer a special Enhanced School Profile (ESP) which allows you to update and add information about your school, as well as respond to reviews. If you are a school official, click Continue to start.
Please note that it can take up to 48 hours for your comment to be posted to our site. While you're here, we'd like to invite you to fill out a survey on your school's programs, activities, and extracurriculars. It only takes a few minutes and will help parents get a full picture of your school.
Continue to compare the schools you have already selected or Edit schools to change your selection.
Get started now! You have successfully registered and can now start updating your Official School Profile. The information you provide is extremely valuable in helping parents and students learn more about your school, so thanks for taking the time!
Thank you for registering as a school leader. We just need to verify your email address. We've sent you an email - please click on the link in that message to get started editing your school's information!
Thanks! We just sent you an email – please click on the link in the email to post your answers.
Get timely updates for Scott Middle School, including performance data and recently posted user reviews.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Oct. 11: Obstetrics and Gynecology
Our Obstetrics and Gynecology Department has a long tradition of excellence for its highly recognized Residency Program and national recognition as a top 50 Department by U.S. News and World Report. Under Dr. Foley's Leadership, they are now embarking on a journey for further elevation and differentiation with the creation of a model for a world-class Women's Institute, focused on improving the health of all women in the population we serve.
Let's read Dr. Foley's words as he describes his first 12 months as a chair of the OB-GYN department and the vision for the future. Thank you to all who serve in Women and Infants Department in the hospital and the outstanding care teams that work tirelessly to make things Possible. Thank you for your conributions …
Steve Narang, MD, is the chief executive officer at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center.
Obstetrics and Gynecology at Good Sam
By Michael R. Foley, MD, Chairman and Program Director Obstetrics and Gynecology / Professor, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix Campus
Has it really been almost a year since I became chairman of the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology?
It certainly has been a great — and fast — 12 months, and for two reasons. First of all, the close personal attention of Drs. Mattox, Erickson, Urig and all our associate/assistant directors has made my transition virtually seamless. It is wonderful to have such supportive faculty!
Secondly, I am having a blast! I especially enjoy twice-daily rounding with our residents, our passionate and intrinsically motivated staff, and our dedicated nursing professionals.
Looking back, one of the biggest challenges so far has been a request from our new CEO, Dr. Steve Narang. He asked me to develop a comprehensive strategy for evolving our residency program and department toward a formal academic medical center model. This called for partnering with a medical school to transition from an outstanding program and department with GME programs to a co-branded, full-fledged academic medical center, unique among all Banner facilities.
In response, our program leaders, faculty and resident representatives held a strategic planning session as part of our Annual Program Review in the spring. We constructed and declared our program's vision statement and melded the intent with that of the Department of Women's and Infant's Services. The result was a collective, mutually endorsed mission statement.
Our Residency Program exists to inspire and empower residents to be: providers of the highest quality of patient care, humanistic physicians and altruistic leaders and teachers in the realm of Women's Health, by fostering a nurturing environment that emphasizes the following five initiatives: Inquisitive scholarship and lifelong learning, comprehensive education, professional behavior (professionalism, respect, collegiality, humility), whole life harmony and fair, inclusive and transparent leadership.
Through an outstanding local, national and international identity of trust and value, enabled by a robust integration of Graduate Medical Education (GME) with the clinical care delivery model, the Banner Good Samaritan Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology is committed to "Making a difference in people's lives through excellent patient care."
This strong work to align our department and residency program under a common mission — coupled with Dr. Mattox's brilliant work years ago to establish the academic leadership structure with single-chairman oversight of both the residency program and department — serves as the foundation for our expanded future academic department model.
With a shared mission and vision and a strong structural foundation, our efforts then turned to developing a complementary strategic plan.
Our strategy begins with recruiting and retaining outstanding, world-class academic faculty. This will enable innovative teaching methodologies and breakthrough clinical/basic science research in conjunction with a medical school. These efforts will translate to bedside care in our hospital through an improved culture for learning, evolving and innovating toward a state-of-the-art clinical practice model.
Following our mission and strategy will result in superior outcomes for moms and babies, superior patient and family exposure and an increased market share — fulfilling Banner's mission of "Making a difference in people's lives through excellent patient care." It also will enhance our reputation for trust and value in women's and infants' health care delivery, further enabling us to recruit and retain outstanding academic faculty.
Needless to say, this is very exciting for all of us! As we continue to change and evolve, we remain steadfast in our commitment to protect the culture of the department — a culture so engaging and special that it stands at the forefront of our initial attraction to Good Sam and the reason so many return!
It is a culture defined by the stability of fair, inclusive and transparent leadership; where hope is provided in the form of an inspiring future and compassion highlights each day. Importantly, there is also trust exemplified by sincerity, competence and reliability in all of our actions at every interpersonal encounter. Ultimately it is a culture of care — for each other and our patients.
Like many of you, I love Good Sam. I love it for what it has been and what it will continue to be.


text:
Robinson Club Cala Serena ****
Address : Cala Serena, 07660, Mallorca - East Coast
Guaranteed official hotel information
Hotel top features & services
Hotel information
Hotel Description
The apartment hotel comprises a total of 16 apartments spread over 2 floors. Reception is located at Playa Ferrera apartments.
Room Description
The tastefully decorated apartments come with their own bathroom, a kitchenette with fridge, a hire safe, a balcony or terrace, a separate bedroom and a combined living room/bedroom.
Hotel Location
This welcoming apartment hotel is located in the leisure area of Cala d'Or. The beach is only a few minutes' walk away and the centre, with its bars, restaurants and nightlife spots, is also close by. A small sandy bay is approximately 150 m away, accessible by steps. There is a bus stop to be found just in front of the hotel, although it should be noted that services are only available during the peak season.
Additional Description
Meals are offered in the neigbouring complex Playa Ferrera at 150m.


text:
Click here to read the latest issue
Browse Sections:
Weather Cams:
Cape Canaveral
Treasure Coast
Courtesy of JoesDiscoWeatherCentral.com
Now browsing: Hometown News > Community > Martin County
For Hometown News
MARTIN COUNTY -- Children in grades K-5 are invited to visit the Hoke Library at 1150 N.W. Jack Williams Way in Jensen Beach to celebrate Earth Day and create a terrarium at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 20.
During the project, kids and parents will create their own mini eco-system to take home. Participants are asked to provide their own plastic container (i.e., large mayonnaise jar, pretzel container or soap bottle).
Registration is required and limited to 25 participants. Call (772) 463-2870 to register.
Legal Notices
Join our Mailing List:
Crossword Puzzle:
Click here for this week's crossword puzzle
Archives Calendar:
Search Stories:
Order Photos
© Copyright 2005 CityHost411.com
Powered by CityHost411


text:
A resource for those interested in the history, theory and practice of determining time by measuring the angle between the moon and the sun, stars or planets.
What is the lunar distance and why is it so interesting? For a quick introduction, click here.
For basic theory and instruction on how to observe the lunar distance at home, click here.
For links to a variety of lunar distance topics and resources, click here.
The Navigation-L discussion list is an excellent source of in depth information about the lunar distance. For inks to selected topics and materials referenced on the Nav-L, click here.
This website is intended to make it easier for amateur navigators, astronomers and nautical historians to get involved with the lunar distance method in theory and practice. I hope to add links and information over time. Please pass along any comments, corrections or suggestions.Arthur N. Pearson Belmont, Massachusetts, USA firstname.lastname@example.com visitors since May 30, 2003


text:
The Top 10 In Action Sports
01GoPro Just Launched The New HERO4 Range. We Got A Chance To Have A First Look...
0236 Hikers Feared Dead After Japan's Second Biggest Volcano Erupts
03One Day You May Be Forced To Quit Surfing. Here's How To Spot The Signs Early
04They've Shot It, Soaked It In Liquid Nitrogen, But Will The iPhone 6 Survive A 7,000ft Drop?
05Is It Ever OK To Pee In Your Wetsuit? A To Z Of Surfing Etiquette
06How Not To Die... On A Mountain Bike | With Aaron Gwin
07Six Films You Should Watch At This Year's London Surf/Film Festival
08Snowboarders Lose Law Suit To End Board Ban At US Resort…
0913 Reasons Why You Should Definitely Go On Your University Snow Sports Trip
10Jeep Original Freedom: Snowboard Full Edit
BMX Street Finals at Relentless Energy Drink NASS 2011
1st place Mark Webb for the third year in a row! Was a tight contest with only half a point separating him from the young American Daniel Sandoval. In third place and on fine form Harry Main.
What Do You Think?
Get the best in action sports straight to your inbox


text:
State of Conservation (SOC)
Sacred City of Kandy
Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications
Golden Temple of Dambulla
Sacred City of Kandy
Sri Lanka
Date of Inscription: 1988
Category: Cultural
Criteria: (iv)(vi)
Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications
Sri Lanka
Date of Inscription: 1988
Nomination records (Year): 1986
Category: Cultural
Criteria: (iv)
Golden Temple of Dambulla
Sri Lanka
Date of Inscription: 1991
Nomination records (Year): 1989
Category: Cultural
Criteria: (i)(vi)
- Legal framework
- Management activities
- Management systems/ management plan
* :
The threats indicated are listed in alphabetical order; their order does not constitute a classification according to the importance of their impact on the property.
Furthermore, they are presented irrespective of the type of threat faced by the property, i.e. with specific and proven imminent danger ("ascertained danger") or with threats which could have deleterious effects on the property's Outstanding Universal Value ("potential danger").
** : All mission reports are not always available electronically.


text:
695. Satan is Ruler of an Evil Kingdom of Darkness
"For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us
into the Kingdom of his dear Son." Colossians 1:13 NLT
Satan's kingdom is a kingdom of darkness and evil even though it isn't physical. Physical properties—according to Scripture—have nothing to do with being good or evil. Good
and evil exist in both realities. Jesus' 1st coming was a covert rescue operation.
Lord, thank You for sending Jesus as our
rescuer. I praise You as King supreme, superior
to the prince of darkness. I look forward to the day
You rule everything everywhere; when death is no longer
a threat. May that day come soon. In Jesus Name, Amen.


text:
Forza Motorsport 5 & Forza Horizon 2 Livestream Replay2014-09-23
Nick gives Forza Motorsport 5 another spin before trying the yet to be released Forza Horizon 2.
Nick gives Forza Motorsport 5 another spin before trying the yet to be released Forza Horizon 2.
We go through the weeks hottest news and play some Call of Duty: Ghosts
Take a look at the Xbox One version of the Pro Evolution Soccer 2015 demo with this full match. Check out the really deep through balls, the smooth te..
Take a look at the Xbox One version of the Pro Evolution Soccer 2015 demo with this full match. Check out the really deep through balls, the smooth te..
We gathered a ragtag team of Guardians to try and conquer the first raid - Vault of Glass - but were kept from even opening the vault as our group sim..
We captured some gameplay from Disney Infinity 2.0: Marvel Super Heroes, enjoying the Avengers Playset on Xbox One.
It's a trip down memory lane as Petter Mårtensson joins Nick for a look at the original Assassin's Creed as part of our series of livestreams leading ..
Nick and Tanja talk about how to get good gear and level up in Destiny.
We capture a complete scenario walkthrough from an advanced game on Hyrule Warrior's Adventure Mode. Check out how to use item cards on the original T..
We captured some gameplay from Forza Horizon 2 on Xbox One - and drive the Lamborghini Huracán LP 610-4 and race some jets mid-air who try to be faste..
We captured some gameplay from Forza Horizon 2 on Xbox One - and drive the Lamborghini Huracán LP 610-4 in the first race down to the Horizon Festival..
We captured some gameplay from Forza Horizon 2 on Xbox One - and drive an Audi RS3 all through a rainy night race which does not end to well.
We captured some gameplay from Forza Horizon 2 on Xbox One - and drive an Audi RS3 towards a Super Hot Hatchback race that takes us cross country and ..
We captured some gameplay from Forza Horizon 2 on Xbox One - and drive a Koenigsegg Agera like we stole it, playing the first Bucket List Challenge!
Dóri goes several decades back in time to fight with and against the dinosaurs that roamed the world under the WW2. In today livestream, it's D-Day al..
Here is the info on our upcoming Assassin's Creed streams and giveaways.
We had a chat about a Yeti, designing difficulty, designing with limitations and much more as Acid Nerve's Mark Foster opened up on Titan Souls.
We complete our FIFA 15 demo matches series with an English classic from the Premier League (including the new officialy licensed imagery from this co..
After a gorgeus free kick goal by Marco Reus right at the beginning, Boca strikes back with some beautiful and elaborate team play. But with a weaker ..
Nick creates a virtual version of himself in The Sims 4. Join him as he builds his dream house with meticulous care, trolls the internet and takes his..
We caught up with executive producer Fredrik Rundqvist to learn more about the structure of The Division, about New York City, dogs, rats, tunnel peop..
We play a game of 3v3 mode Salvage on the Moon-based map Anomaly.
We play a round of Destiny's free-for-all mode, Rumble, on Twilight Gap.
A game of Clash played on Bastion.
Nick and Bengt take a look at the headlines of the gaming world as the week comes to an end, followed by Nick and Dóri trying their hands at some rath..
The guys are back in the studio. This time with Metro Redux.
The Xbox One demo for FIFA 15 was just released and we've played and captured our first two matches. This face-off is a tribute of sorts to the "Benit..
The Xbox One demo for FIFA 15 was just released and we've played and captured our first two matches. In this recreation of the upcoming Champions Leag..
With the agile and restless Impa (and her powerful Biggoron Sword), we walk through all missions in the Death Mountain level from the upcoming Hyrule ..
With a powerful and fast-moving Link, we walk through all missions in the Skyloft level from the upcoming Hyrule Warriors for Wii U. We use some of th..
Bioware Austin general manager Jeff Hickman talked to use about the premise, concept, world and development of Shadow Realms.
In today's show Nick and Magnus jump into Destiny once again, and explore more of Bungie's shared-world shooter.
Nick and Magnus open up the box of the glorious Glacier White edition of PlayStation 4 that comes with the Destiny bundle.
Nick is in the studio playing two hours of Destiny.
Nick visited the guys at Sledgehammer Games and asked the two question you guys asked a lot.
Nick takes a look at what's inside the Limited Edition of Destiny.
During the first hour Nick and Bengt discussed the latest news and announcments including the new Saints Row expansion and a new Resident Evil and in ..
Project lead Dan Lind tells us about what changes Paradox are making when they return to the World War II theatre. We learn more about the strides mad..
We've talked to Alien: Isolation creative lead Al Hope many times in the lead in to the game's release and he keeps holding back on information. Frust..
We had a chat with Broforce director Evan Greenwood to talk about a game that started out as a joke that would up resulting in a phone call from Lions..
We caught up with Oculus VR founder Palmer Luckey and vice president of product Nate Mitchell to learn more about their newly acquired money suits, wh..
Nick sat down with Glen and Michael from Sledgehammer to hear about the inspirations for the new Call of Duty.
Magnus and Nick ventured into the Dynasty Warriors/Samurai Warriors cross over that is Warriors Orochi 3: Ultimate on PlayStation 4. Watch them sample..
Producer Robert Siwiak talks to us about Lara being able to swim, the co-opetition that is a the core of the game and much more in this interview.
Magnus and Nick shows you have to use the COD Challenge App.
We have another Mario Kart 8 clip with 1080p 60 FPS Gameplay riding a Mercedes-Benz Silberpfeil, captured with Elgato Game Capture HD60.
We have a Mario Kart 8 clip with 1080p 60 FPS Gameplay riding a Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, captured with Elgato Game Capture HD60.
We have a clip with 1080p 60 FPS Gameplay from Forza Motorsport 5, captured with Elgato Game Capture HD60.
The re-announcement of Until Dawn on PS4 was one of the great reveals at Gamescom and we caught up with executive producer Pete Samuels to learn more ..
The COD Challenge Ad.
Follow Nick as he travels to San Francisco to visit Sledgehammer Games. The developers behind Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare.
We caught up with Rachel Franklin, executive producer on The Sims 4 to learn more about the life simulation that's just getting ready for release, wha..
Silicon Studio's "next next gen" Rendering Engine Mizuchi in action.
A new month is here and this is when the big releases finally start to hit, here's what September has in store for us.
In this episode of Gamereactor Live we take a closer look at the standalone expansion of Infamous: Second Son, First Light, that stars Fetch one of th..
It's Friday and that means we're discussing the latest news and we're also getting an in-depth look at the new Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare as our r..
We caught up with Josh Sawyer and Adam Brennecke from Obsidian Entertainment at Gamescom to discuss their kickstarted old school RPG Pillars of Eterni..
We caught up with Rocksteady Studios' social marketing manager Gaz Deaves to talk about the Caped Crusader's latest adventures in Batman: Arkham Knigh..
Assassin's Creed: Rogue described as the end of the North American Assassin's Creed trilogy is hitting PS3 and Xbox 360 this fall and we caught up wit..
We sat down for a chat with Turtle Rock Studios' Phil Robb to learn more about the work that has gone into Evolve, the recent delay, and ultimately ho..
Magnus and Philip hit the road for the second closed Beta of The Crew. Join us as we race coast to coast across the United States and take in the sigh..


text:
A 90-minute TeleConference/Live Audio Webcast
1:00-2:30 pm ET / 12:00-1:30 pm CT / 11:00 am-12:30 pm MT / 10:00 am-11:30 am PT
What will we need to know to comply with the new staggered remedial amendment determination letter process? What new relief will be included in the much-anticipated updated revenue procedure for the Employee Plans Compliance Resolution System (EPCRS)? IRS representatives and practitioners will discuss how the new staggered determination letter procedure and expected EPCRS update will affect our current plan practices.
The following topics will be discussed:
Co- Moderators:
Martha L. Hutzelman, Kruchko & Fries, McLean, VA
David Mustone, Hunton & Williams LLP, McLean, VA
Martin L. Pippins, Manager, Employee Plans Technical Guidance and Quality Assurance, Internal Revenue Service, Washington, DC
Joyce Kahn, EP Voluntary Compliance, Internal Revenue Service, Washington, DC
Charles M. Lax, Maddin, Hauser, Wartell, Roth & Heller, PC, Southfield, MI
Joy M. Mercer, Joy M. Mercer, PC, Chatham, NJ


text:
Sponsored by the International Practice Specialty
The US CDC says swine flu (novel H1N1) could impact up to 40 percent of Americans by 2011. This session will provide health and safety professionals with; a framework for updating pandemic planning; minimizing the risk of pandemic in the workplace; an overview of the course of the virus so far; vaccines and anti-viral medications; personal hygiene strategies; and social distancing strategies.
Instructor(s): Deborah R. Roy, MPH, RN, COHN-S, CET, CSP, L.L. Bean, Inc., Freeport, ME
Level: I


text:
Kelowna News
Junior chess tournament
Elementary aged students are invited to a Beginner's Luck Chess Tournament.
The event will take place at Springvalley Middle School in Kelowna on Saturday February 1, with games beginning at 10 a.m.
This is a fun first chess tournament open to students in kindergarten to grade 12. The cost is $10. There will be pizza, snacks, and door prizes for everyone.
Tournament directors will ensure your child is paired with students of the same grade or of equal chess ability. There are no chess ratings and results will not be posted.
"We want kids to feel comfortable taking on a new challenge in a new setting with new friends," says Laurie. "They will likely meet the same players in future competitive events, so it's nice to play in a less structured fun event."
Please RSVP to Chris Laurie to confirm your attendance at [email protected]
Comments on this story are pre-moderated and approval times may vary. Before they appear, comments are reviewed by moderators to ensure they meet our submission guidelines. Keep it clean, keep it civil, keep it truthful, stay on topic and be responsible. Comments are open and welcome for three days after the story is published. We reserve the right to close comments before then. Comments that appear on the site are not the opinion of Castanet, but only of the comment writer.
Read more Kelowna News
Recent Trending
- Teachers reach dealBC - 6:28 am
- Mayor takes shot at zero taxKelowna - 6:21 am
- Captain has boating concernsKelowna - 6:00 am
- MasterChef denies allegationsKelowna - 5:00 am
- 3-year study on 2nd crossingKelowna
3 bedrooms 2 baths
more details
Kelowna SPCA Featured Pet
Pandora Kelowna SPCA >
Airport Arrivals
Airport Departures
Kelowna Discussion Forum
Kelowna's Cultural District
Kelowna Transit
Kelowna Road Closures
William R. Bennett Bridge
Tourism Kelowna Central Okanagan
Regional District
District of Peachland
District of Lake Country
Interior Health
UBC Okanagan
Okanagan College
School District 23
Okanagan Regional Library


text:
Bankers Healthcare Group Wins Top Award for Website Design
SOUTHWEST RANCHES, Fla., Aug. 14, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Bankers Healthcare Group (BHG) was recently honored for excellence in website design and development by the Interactive Media Council (IMC). BHG's corporate website, www.bhg-inc.com, received the Best in Class Interactive Media Award for the Financial Information category.
(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100301/NY62435LOGO)
"We are honored to be recognized by the Interactive Media Council," stated Albert Crawford, Owner and CEO of Bankers Healthcare Group. "We understand that healthcare professionals face unique challenges and time constraints, so we set out to design a website that helps simplify the financing process. Whether you are gathering information or moving forward with a loan, the site allows for quick and easy navigation."
2013 marks the fourth consecutive year that BHG has won an Interactive Media Award, including three for Best in Class. BHG was this year's lone Best in Class honoree in the Financial Information category, scoring 482 out of a possible 500 points.
The Best in Class award is the highest honor bestowed by the IMC. It represents the very best in website planning, execution and overall professionalism. IMC judges evaluate websites based on various criteria including design, content, usability, standards compliance and compatibility.
About the Interactive Media Council
The Interactive Media Council is a nonprofit organization of leading web designers, developers, programmers, advertisers and other web-related professionals dedicated to elevating standards among web-professionals in usability, compatibility, code quality and content. The IMC serves as the primary sponsor and governing body of the Interactive Media Awards, establishing the judging system and providing the judges for the competition.
About Bankers Healthcare Group, Inc.
Since 1992, Bankers Healthcare Group has been providing financing solutions to healthcare professionals throughout the United States. BHG maintains an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and has also been named to Inc. magazine's list of America's fastest growing companies in seven of the last eight years.
CONTACT: Pat Harrigan. 315-671-4129
SOURCE Bankers Healthcare Group
More by this Source
- Bankers Healthcare Group Named One Of America's Fastest-Growing Private Companies In 2014 Inc. 500|5000 List
- Aug 21, 2014, 14:35 ET
- Bankers Healthcare Group Sets Goal Of $25,000 For ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, Nominates All Healthcare Professionals
- Aug 19, 2014, 16:11 ET
- Bankers Healthcare Group Announces Plans For New Corporate Headquarters
- Aug 12, 2014, 13:03 ET
Custom Packages
Browse our custom packages or build your own to meet your unique communications needs.
PR Newswire Membership
Fill out a PR Newswire membership form or contact us at (888) 776-0942.
Learn about PR Newswire services
Request more information about PR Newswire products and services or call us at (888) 776-0942.


text:
- Dimensions: L 125 x W 55 x H 220 mm (L 4.9 x W 2.1 x H 8.6 in.);
- Maximum immersion depth approx. 210 mm (8.2 in.)
- Patented magnet holder to be fitted up to a glass thickness of 19 mm (.74 in.)
- Variable pumping power from 150 to 800 l/h (39 to 211 USgal./h)
- 115 V / 60 Hz
- 8 Watts
For aquariums from 40 to 200 litres (10.5 to 52.8 USgal.) of salt water / fresh water.
Available in US Voltage only.
Quick Overview
Some people maintain that reef biotopes cannot be successful in aquariums with less than 200 litres (52 USgal.). Nonetheless, there are more and more aquarists who operate wonderful aquariums with contents of 60, 100 or 150 litres (16, 26 or 39 USgal.). There is also an increasing demand for smaller reef aquariums. Obviously, the system must not cause any stress for the animals, and all species of invertebrates or fish should be able to live as in their natural habitat. The range of technical aquarium solutions is rather limited for this class of aquariums. Most internal filters have weaknesses which have a detrimental effect on such a biotope or they are completely unsuitable due to the space required.
The Nano product series provides very compact units, which offer the same functional principle as larger systems. The Nano filter can be placed in a corner of the aquarium discreetly, and is based on the surface suction principle. It has a large filter volume and has been fitted with a filter pump offering a variable output of 150 to 800 l/h (39 to 211 US gal./h). The filter chamber can be filled with loose micro / macro wadding as well as with activated carbon or other absorbers, such as phosphate removers or peat. In case of larger systems without surface suction with an external canister filter, for example, the Nano Cleaner is a perfect solution to remove the surface film. In a fresh-water tank, the Nano Cleaner renders a better filtering performance than conventional internal filters fitted with simple filter sponges.
Delivery condition: Ready-to-mount with filter bag for activated carbon or other absorbing media, pump, flow deflector and patented magnet holder to be fitted up to a glass thickness of 19 mm (.74 in.).
Additional Information


text:
Library and Resource Centre
Our Library and Resource Centre are located at 20-30 Hartley Street, Opposite the Convention Centre
Library Hours
The Rescource Centre and Library are open:
Resource Centre and Library Access Fees
Members - $2.00 per hour or part thereof for use of fiche and film readers, computers to view cds or access to the internet.
Non-Members - $5.00 per hour or part thereof.
Home |
About Us |
Research Services |
Getting Started |
Library |
Publications |
What's On |


text:
Your requested poststimes clicked
Link Exchange FAQ
CastleVille 1-Click Bonuses!
Tired of sifting through the feeds and collecting the bonuses?
CastleVille Link Exchange
Fetch all your posts that need help!
Fetching your CastleVille posts...
No helpful posts for CastleVille found.
Sorry, you don't have any posts that need help on your feed or you've already posted them here.
Do you want to show your non-helpful posts?


text:
Sort by:
http://twitter.com/stef_mousse This is a short video of Bella's cliff diving in New Moon.Hope you l… Nov 20, 2009 40 views
Yes, another Bella Cliff Diving Video with the same clip everyone else has used but it took me ages… Nov 13, 2009 35 views
The better one. Dakota is sooo pretty! aroiscreepy Aug 17, 2009 39 views
Some quotes of my "book" if it can be called such thing its Edward's POV of new moon;) hope u like… Mariana GOmes BEirão Jun 10, 2009 282 views
I've seen lots of fan made videos of the cliff diving seen, but this one seemed best to me. I could… Mrs.Cope May 18, 2009 100 views
my first new moon trailer Smmjjj Apr 30, 2009 130 views
Fan-made teaser trailer release is HERE! Notes: I updated! Thank You all subscribers and viewers fo… keishacullen Feb 25, 2009 308 views
© 2014 Created by Hachette Book Group.
Report an Issue | Guidelines | Report an Issue | Terms of Service


text:
ABA Health Law Section
Nomination Slate
FY 2013 Officers & Council
The Nominating Committee of the Health Law Section has finalized its recommended slate of Officers and Council for the 2013 fiscal year. Per Article 6, Section 1 of the Health Law Section Bylaws, notice is hereby given to the Members of the Health Law Section. The election of such Officers and Council will occur at the Section Business Meeting on Saturday, August 4, 2012 during the ABA Annual Meeting in Chicago.
Vice-Chair – 1-year term with automatic ascension to Chair-Elect and Chair:
Michael E. Clark
Houston, TX
Secretary – 1-year term:
William Horton
Birmingham, Alabama
Delegate to the House of Delegates – 3-year term ending in 2015:
Gregory Pemberton
Indianapolis, IN
Council Members: 3-year terms ending August 2015:
Austin, TX
Dallas, TX
Memphis, TN
Automatic Ascension
Chair (1-year term beginning August 2012)
Washington, DC
Chair-Elect (1-year term beginning August 2012)
Baldwin, MD
Budget Officer (3-year Term beginning August 2012)
Addison, TX
Immediate Past Chair (1-year term beginning August 2012)
Albuquerque, NM


text:
We're sorry but you can't collect Welcome Rewards® nights at this hotel
We do not have Hotels.com photos for this hotel.
The Olympiets Park Hotel is located in Khimki, Russia
Hotel Olimpiets /Moscow/ is located 15 kilometers from the Moscow Ring Road and consists of three eight-storey buildings connected by a large hall. The Hotel includes the universal sport complex with a gym- a fitness room- a football field and a 25 meters indoor swimming pool. A very rich event carrying experience of the Olympiets Park Hotel means irreproachable organization- wide choice of conference halls and services- advice of real professionals. There are two audience of 15 and 35 seats- a lecture hall for 135 people- a concert hall for 350 people- 2 meeting rooms and an office. The hotel s location is very convenient- because on the one hand- the distance from the main roads ensures peace and quiet- on he other hand- the airport is practically a stone s throw. Hotel Olimpiets has 221 rooms of different categories but they all repaired in accordance with European standards. In addition- at the hotel is an elegant restaurant with an elegant setting. There you can taste dishes of both Russian and European cuisine. There are beautiful glades- a forest lot- a river and a pond on the 49 ha of the hotel territory. The hotel may organize transfers to the exhibition pavilions.
No star rating available
No star rating available
No star rating available
No star rating available
This hotel does not offer any accessibility features. Please select a different hotel if you are interested in booking a room with accessibility features.
Rates displayed are for single or double occupancy per room per night based on the number of adults requested. Please note that extra people, children, rollaway beds and incidentals may be subject to additional charges at check-in.
Rates are subject to availability and may exclude additional taxes and charges imposed by the hotel. Some rates may require special identification.
We have included all charges provided to us by this hotel. However, charges can vary, for example, based on length of stay or the room you book.


text:
"Daniel Bryan wasn't going to win Royal Rumble 2013. He gets tossed out. His fan base would be more upset than him not being in it at all. Just my opinion."
- Kevin Nash defending WWE and their decision
John Cena wins Royal Rumble 2013 by last eliminating Ryback. Other contestants in the match include Antonio Cesaro, Bo Dallas, Brodus Clay, Chris Jericho, Cody Rhodes, Damien Sandow, Daniel Bryan, Darren Young, David Otunga, Dolph Ziggler, Drew McIntyre, Godfather, Goldust, Great Khali, Heath Slater, Jinder Mahal, Kane, Kofi Kingston, Randy Orton, Rey Mysterio, Ryback, Santino Marella, Sheamus, Sin Cara, Tensai, The Miz, Titus ONeil, Wade Barrett and Zack Ryder.
WWE has sent out a memo, stating that the company will be allowing Chris Benoit footage to air on their new network. There will be a warning before each show that he is featured on. No word yet on why the company has changed their policy.
Jim Ross has answered his final question about Chris Benoit. The long time WWE commentator has told fans to stop asking him any further questions about the former world champion, as he is tired of repeating himself on the matter.
"One night, Chris ended up killing his wife and his kid. That is an act so terrible and horrible I can't even comprehend or guess as to what happened in that house. That will always overshadow any accomplishment Chris had in the ring. He'll never be in the Hall of Fame, it will just never happen. His career will speak for itself but his record as a human being, his first and foremost, and those actions will never be forgotten. That's my feelings on that, we don't even need to talk about the Hall of Fame. Speaking for myself, Chris Benoit as the person I knew, loved him. Chris Benoit as a wrestler, loved him. Chris Benoit as the person who did what he did, unforgivable. Bottom line."
"Well first and foremost, what I think about Chris Benoit is that guy was one of the most nicest guys I ever met in my life. He's one of the most talented, hard working cats I'd ever seen in the squared circle. Anybody who knew Chris would tell you those exact two things. That guy loved the damn wrestling business, he was born to be a wrestler and was absolutely phenomenal. Drawing a lot of his influence from The Dynamite Kid, he blazed a path as the Pegasus Kid and his legacy as The Crippler Chris Benoit was just one hellacious career."
"Chris was dark, he was extremely dark. We used to have a joke that Chris was tri-polar, because it was a step up from bi-polarity. He would flip sometimes. I think a combination of Chris' background of with steroids, mixed with the partying, is a recipe for disaster. One of them is a recipe for disaster. Its literally taking Drano and pouring it on your hard drive. See what that does for your computer."
Chris Benoit shocked the wrestling world when he was able to win the Royal Rumble and earned himself a shot at the World Heavyweight Championship at Wrestlemania. He was successfully able to eliminate the Big Show to win the match.


text:
Blog post
University Vows to Lock Out Students Opposed to ExxonMobil
Posted Apr 28, 2011 by Asher Miller
UPDATE: April 29th: We received an email from one of the students organzing the protest with the following news:
We won. Students who wish to avoid Tillerson's speach will be allowed to do so, and Richard has been offered the same stage the Tillerson. The university will be supporting Richard's speech and will advertise it on the schedule.
I can confirm Richard will be speaking at 3 PM on May 14th, on the Quad.
This is fantastic. Everybody is dancing here.
There's a storm brewing on the small campus of Worcester Polytechnic Institute over the kind of vision for the future to be imparted to graduating students at this year's commencement. Offering one vision is Rex Tillerson, the CEO of ExxonMobil—the largest private oil company in the world and a major funder of climate deniers. Offering the other is Richard Heinberg, Senior Fellow-in-Residence at Post Carbon Institute. The two visions couldn't be further apart, nor the stakes higher.
According to students at WPI, ExxonMobil has given at least $1.3 million to the school. The decision to invite Tillerson was taken without consulting the community and kept a secret for over two years. The administration has also opposed efforts to find out the exact nature of the decision making process that led to the invitation.
Given ExxonMobil's track record, the decision to invite Tillerson didn't sit well with a number of students and faculty. WPI Students for a Just and Stable Future (SJSF) took up the cause, protesting Tillerson's invitation, but to no avail. So students took matters into their own hands.
Last week, SJSF invited Richard Heinberg to deliver an alternate commencement address on campus and at the same time as Tillerson.
Richard Heinberg's work is a powerful symbol of our wishes for WPI: a university which, in line with its budding green image, chooses to honor someone with leadership and vision, rather than a baron of the past, a force of the status quo.
The protest organizers have made every effort to negotiate with the administration and ensure that the graduation ceremony is not unduly disrupted. Last week, the WPI administration approved their plans begrudgingly. But everything changed yesterday. The President's office informed SJSF that any students who leave the ceremony to listen to Richard Heinberg will not be allowed to return to receive their diplomas. SJSF believes the administration does not have the legal authority and has contacted the ACLU and other legal help to fight this tactic.
We at PCI are offering our support to the students at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, not because we're eager for a confrontation with the likes of ExxonMobil but because these students are showing the kind of leadership, courage, and thoughtfulness the challenges we face demand. We're also calling on friends, partners and peers to join us in protesting WPI's appointment of ExxonMobil's CEO as an "aspirational speaker" and allow students to freely choose their speaker (and future), without reprisal.
To voice your support, please visit WPI SJSF's "ExxonMobil Doesn't Speak for Me" facebook page. For those in the Worcester area, Richard Heinberg's commencement speech will be open to the public.
Point of clarification: Some people have expressed confusion about the diploma situation. Students have NOT been told they will not graduate if they walk out, but that they can't return to the ceremony and receive their diplomas at that time. Visit this blog post for further updates as the day grows near.
Like this post?
Keep the information flowing: Donate to Post Carbon Institute
Stay connected: Receive our monthly e-newsletter
Reposting: See our reposting policy


text:
Donald Driver hooks up kid who had cleat snatched away
6/5/12 in NFL | JoeKukura | 492 respect
The little fellow appeared on "Good Morning America" Tuesday, and declared that amends have been made. Stephen Wagner, the wronged 12-year-old in the now-infamous cleat-snatching video, has been awarded a trove of autographed Packers gear, including cleats, a jersey, and a baseball bat.
Apparently the baseball bat is for next time the kid has to fight for sports memorabilia!
An animated gif of the incident can be seen to the left. We see Driver tossing the shoe into the crowd at the end of the Donald Driver Celebrity Softball Game, a benefit for homeless families. We see the young Mr. Wagner catching the shoe, then having it snatched away from him by a middle age woman.
She's been called worse on the internet in the last couple of days.
Driver encouraged all us internet trolls to stop harassing the cleat-snatching woman. "Let's remember the woman who grabbed the cleat from Stephen is human," Driver said via Twitter. We all make mistakes. Stephen is happy and that's what matters most!
Driver also tweeted a photo of the young man meeting him in person to collect his autographed Packer loot.


text:
Whiten Up: 6 Moves for Your Prettiest Smile Ever
Pages in this Story:
- How to Whiten Your Teeth on Your Own
- How to Whiten Your Teeth at the Dentist's Office
- Whitening: The 4 Most Common Questions
- Tooth Brighteners Put to the Test
Tooth Brighteners Put to the Test
FITNESS staffers put over-the-counter tooth brighteners to the test.
Colgate Luminous Enamel Strengthening Toothpaste in Mint Twist, $2.99, drugstores
The claim: Fluoride gently lifts away surface stains, while minerals help rebuild weak enamel so teeth appear whiter.
Our tester says: "The texture wasn't abrasive like other whitening toothpastes I've tried and the mint flavor made my mouth feel really clean." --Sara, 24
The pro says: "By removing tartar on a daily basis and strengthening the enamel in between professional cleanings, it will make your smile brighter," says Dr. Liechtung.
GoSmile Zen Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth, $18, sephora.com
The claim: Potassium nitrate helps block exposed areas in the enamel, while silica polishes away stains and fluoride prevents decay and strengthens the enamel.
Our tester says: "The paste felt slightly chalky but my teeth didn't have the sensitivity they usually do while brushing." --Tara, 28
The pro says: "Minerals combined with your saliva help to close off exposed nerve fibers and lessen sensitivity from overwhitening," says Dr. Rosen.
Crest Whitestrips Daily Multicare, $39.99, drugstores
The claim: Daily use of these five-minutes-a-day formfitting gel strips prevents stain buildup, whitening teeth several shades after one kit (42 pouches).
Our tester says: "I noticed a slight difference after one week, but once I finished the box, I got tons of compliments on my super-white smile." --Nicole, 27
The pro says: "Even low amounts of peroxide can have a big effect -- it's really about using the active ingredient on a consistent basis," says Dr. Rosen.
Listerine Whitening Pre-Brush Rinse, $5.49, drugstores
The claim: Germ-fighting ingredients prevent bad breath, while whitening agents brighten your smile after 12 weeks. Our tester says: "I didn't like the taste it left behind, but my teeth are whiter and it's super-easy to use." --Kathy, 45
The pro says: "A whitening rinse is a great tool to prevent already whitened teeth from rebounding back to their original shade," says Dr. Liechtung.
Sally Hansen Smile Brightening Lip Treatment in Radiant, $6.95, drugstores
The claim: The blue-based hues diffuse yellow tones and make not-so-bright smiles seem super-white.
Our tester says: "I never think my teeth look really white, so I loved applying a gloss to instantly make my smile seem brighter." --Jenna, 31
The pro says: "The color white that your eye can see naturally has blue undertones," explains Dr. Rosen.
Tip: Watch what you sip. Coffee, tea, dark soda and red wine (and, of course, cigarettes) can penetrate teeth's enamel and cause yellowing. "Skip them entirely for 24 hours after a professional treatment, when teeth are more apt to absorb dark hues, or use a straw to lessen the contact," advises Dr. Rosen.
Originally published in FITNESS magazine, April 2007.
What do you think of this story? Leave a Comment.
Thank you for the advice! Always be careful on doing things on your own though, I actually ended up damaging my enamel by using peroxide and mixing it with baking soda which was suggested as a homemade remedy. I have tried it all! Luckily I got introduced to this product called Power Swabs. I highly recommend this product to all. And no I do not work for Power Swabs lol! Just giving a good review on a product that did great for me! :-)4/14/2014 04:49:57 PM Report Abuse
Without any doctor's consultation, you can get pearly white teeth. Several at home treatment options to get white teeth are rubbing banana peels on your teeth for two minutes, apply mashed strawberries on your teeth, lemon juice, carrots that remove plaque from your teeth, and baking soda, which is the safest and strongest teeth whitener. If you don't get those pearly whites even after trying these natural techniques, then you should consult your family dentist. http://www.drbhattdds.com12/7/2013 04:35:34 AM Report Abuse
Add your comment
Please confirm your comment by answering the question below and clicking "Submit Comment."


text:
Brave Chan Yung, a new National People's Congress delegate from the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong, said the proposal was one of 20 suggestions to be made at next month's NPC and Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference plenary meeting.Monday, 25 February, 2013, 5:27am
Boxing Day launch for high-speed railway24 Dec 2012 - 3:58am
The government moved a step closer to passing its controversial old age allowance scheme on Tuesday, when the city's largest pro-establishment party pledged its support for the measure.29 Aug 2013 - 4:13am
The government appears to have won crucial support for its monthly HK$2,200 Old Age Living Allowance schemeafter the biggest pro-establishment party softened its stance yesterday, saying it would reconsider the welfare minister's latest proposal of an annual review.22 Oct 2012 - 8:48am
A pro-government lawmaker wants to cut down on opposition filibusters by limiting the number of amendments each legislator can propose during committee debates.
Ip Kwok-him said on Tuesday that each lawmaker should be limited to proposing only one amendment for any government spending proposal under discussion in the Finance Committee.16 Oct 2012 - 2:52pm
Rivalries within the Beijing-loyalist camp were rare in the past, given the careful orchestration of its members.
But disharmony between two groups, the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong (DAB) and the Federation of Trade Unions (FTU), publicly emerged during campaigning in the Legislative Council election earlier this month.28 Sep 2012 - 3:15am
Veteran politician Lau Kong-wah says he will not seek chairmanship of the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong, after his attempt at becoming a "super lawmaker" ended in the loss of his 15-year seat on the Legislative Council.13 Sep 2012 - 3:00am
This year's election claimed a number of popular heavyweights, among them Lau Kong-wah, a vice-chairman of the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong.
Lau, who ran for one of the five new district council "super seats", was actually leading in opinion polls until a few days before the election.11 Sep 2012 - 3:11am
The election watchdog yesterday censured Legco election contender Pamela Peck Wan-kam for choosing a misleading number to represent her candidacy.
The independent contestant for a "super seat" in the district councils constituency had already had a "serious warning" following her repeated, "blatant" breaches of rules, the Electoral Affairs Commission said.8 Sep 2012 - 2:44am
In the most hotly contested Legislative Council election in years, every vote could matter - including those from Hong Kong's 450,000 non-Chinese residents.
However, only half of the 74 lists of candidates running for the directly elected and "super lawmaker" seats have provided English materials to explain where they stand on policy issues.21 Aug 2012 - 3:08am


text:
Julie Hairston, Director of Communications
Norene Quinn, Operations Manager
Norene Quinn is an Atlanta native, who attended St. Pius X High and worked as the secretary in the Psychology Department at Georgia State University during college. After having managed professional trade organizations for many years, Quinn founded Association Management Services (AMS) in 1982. AMS provides services beyond the association web site to enhance the membership experience. Quinn and a team of staff provide expert support from QuickBooks and financial support, registration and on-site event support to all the daily phone, email and website interaction with association leaders, members and potential members. For over thirty years, AMS has enabled professional associations to enhance their image and expand their member services by providing a constant and professional point of contact. Norene and her husband, Jerome, COO of SawHorse General Contractors for 25 years, reside in Candler Park and love in town living as much as mountain living in Cashiers, North Carolina, their home away from home.
Barton Hodges, Systems Administrator
Barton Hodges is an information technology specialist, with over 12 years experience supporting organizations in the Atlanta area. Through his company, Ambrosius Consulting, Barton offers professional and personalized IT services aimed at streamlining business processes, reducing costs, and increasing productivity in small to mid-size business environments.
Since 2006, he has worked with Norene Quinn and Association Management Services in order to provide technical expertise and strategic guidance to the Board of Directors of various Atlanta based professional associations. These associations have included Georgia Bio (GaBio), Financial Executives International (FEI), Georgia Association of Paralegals (GAP), Georgia Automotive Manufacturers Association (GAMA), and the Georgia Solar Energy Association (GSEA).
Barton is a graduate of Oglethorpe University with a dual BA in Psychology and Philosophy, and was recently awarded an MA, with merit, in Philosophy of Cognitive Science from the University of Sussex in Brigton, Sussex, U.K.
Powered by Affiniscape - Web Content and Association Membership Management


text:
Ricoh G700SE Water And Dust Resistant Digicam
The new Ricoh G700SE is not your ordinary water and dust resistant digital camera because it also provides wireless LAN and Bluetooth functions as standard features and supports the use of GPS and laser barcode reader functions via slot-in units. Measuring 118.8mm x 71.0mm x 41.0mm and weighing at around 286 grams (without battery), the Ricoh G700SE provides security functions such as password-based camera lock and support for SD WORM (write-once read-multiple) cards; one and two dimensional barcode recognition in the camera unit itself; camera memo function for adding information (audio, text, etc.) to the image data; flash with a maximum range of 10 m; 28 to 140 mm wide-angle zoom lens; mode dial that includes CALS mode; and much more. The Ricoh G700SE will be launched in mid-October 2010.


text:
The push to privatize services traditionally provided by government is the focus of a community forum slated for next week.
Since the Reagan era, privatization — or the outsourcing of public services to the private sector — has been touted as a way to make government more efficient and less costly. Critics, however, allege it is a form of union-busting that often leads to lower wages for workers and reduced accountability to the public.
An analysis of U.S. crime data by a British newspaper has found there's been a 25 percent increase in civilian justifiable homicides since the controversial "stand your ground" (SYG) laws started being introduced in 2005.
London's Guardian newspaper analyzed data from FBI and state sources. It concludes that the spike in civilian justifiable homicides is related not only to SYG laws, but also weak gun control laws in certain states.
Florida was the first state to introduce an SYG law in 2005 and similar measures have now been adopted in some form by more than 20 states. Most were passed in 2006. Ohio doesn't yet have such a law, but it's believed that gun advocates might be planning a campaign for one here soon.
Florida's SYG law is expected to be part of the defense made for George Zimmerman, if he is charged with a crime. Zimmerman was the neighborhood watch volunteer who shot and killed an unarmed African-American teenager, Trayvon Martin, Feb. 26 in Sanford, Fla. The incident has triggered widespread public outrage.
The Guardian's analysis shows that SYG laws alone cannot be statistically linked with the rise in justifiable homicides. But in states with both SYG laws and the weakest gun control laws — as defined by the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence — it found a statistical correlation with an increase in justifiable homicides.
Across the United States, such killings have risen sharply over the past five years, according to the data provided by the FBI and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. From 2001-05, there were 1,225 homicides classified as justifiable, compared to 1,528 in the period 2006-10. By contrast, violent crime overall has been falling.
"The police are shooting more people and citizens are shooting more people. We're evolving into an increasingly coarse society with no obligation to diffuse a situation and rapidly turn to force," said Professor Dennis Kenney, of John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York and an ex-police sergeant in Florida. "People are literally getting away with murder."
SYG laws allow a potential crime victim who is in fear of "grave harm" to use deadly force in public places, not just inside their own homes. They eliminate the legal requirement to retreat before a person may claim he or she acted in self-defense.
SYG laws have been pushed by the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), which drafts model legislation for state lawmakers to use.
State Sen. Bill Seitz (R-Green Township) is among ALEC's leaders, as CityBeat has previously reported here and here. The group, which held its annual meeting in Cincinnati last spring, has a membership of nearly 2,000 state legislators and around 300 private-sector members.
Funded by the Koch brothers, the National Rifle Association, oil companies and others, ALEC's model bills have served as the template for "voter ID" laws that swept the nation in 2011, for the voucher programs that privatize public education, for anti-immigrant legislation, and for the wave of anti-labor union legislation pushed during the past two years in Ohio, Wisconsin, Indiana, Arizona, New Hampshire and elsewhere.
This week Coca-Cola and PepsiCo dropped their memberships in ALEC, amid the threat of boycotts.
In 2010 National Public Radio reported that Corrections Corp. of America (CCA), a private-sector ALEC board member, participated in the drafting of Arizona Senate Bill No. 1070. The report documented the behind-the-scenes effort to draft and pass the law and how the CCA stood to benefit from people incarcerated under it.
Marvin Meadors, a Huffington Post contributor, has described ALEC as "a bill-churning mill which uses corporate money to draft model legislation that advances the agenda of the Far Right and encourages crony capitalism."
It's 72 hours and counting.
That's how long it has been since CityBeate-mailed Mike Wilson, a Republican candidate and Cincinnati Tea Party leader, to learn why he skipped a planned appearance at a candidates' forum Wednesday night in Forest Park. So far, we've received no reply.
As an attorney and lobbyist at Keating, Muething & Klekamp (KMK), mayoral candidate John Cranley helped payroll company Paycor finalize plans to move its headquarters — and 450 to 500 jobs with it — from Queensgate in Cincinnati to Norwood, Ohio.
Specifically, KMK helped Paycor and Norwood set up a tax credit deal to incentivize the company's relocation. Throughout the
process, the law firm called on several of its employees, including
Cranley, to help with the negotiations.
For Paycor, the move comes after more than two decades in Cincinnati. The company originally looked in Cincinnati for bigger headquarters with better parking options, but ultimately couldn't find a location to its liking, according to a May 2012 memo from the city manager. So when Paycor found a location outside city limits and worked out a tax incentive package with Norwood and Ohio, it decided to move.
Cities and states often deploy incentive packages, ranging from property tax abatements to deductions on income taxes, to attract and retain companies. Pure Romance, a $100-million-plus "relationship enhancement" company, recently agreed to move from Loveland, Ohio, to downtown Cincinnati after securing such a tax deal with the city.
Paycor broke ground on its new headquarters in December and plans to move there next spring. The transition will pull 450 to 500 employees out of Cincinnati, and the company plans to add another 250 to 300 employees over time at its new facilities.
Cranley campaign manager Jay Kincaid says Cranley and KMK won't comment on the details of their work with Paycor or other clients for ethical reasons. But Kincaid says Cranley was just doing his job after Paycor went to KMK, not the other way around.
"In the legal profession you're asked to represent clients, and you do it to the best of your ability," Kincaid says. "At the time I don't think (Cranley) was even running for office. The firm came to him and said, 'Hey, we have a job that we need you to work on.' And he did the work, just like anyone else would at their job."
Norwood City Council approved the deal with Paycor on Oct. 23, 2012. Cranley announced his mayoral campaign three weeks later, on Nov. 14.
Cranley's critics argue that a mayoral candidate shouldn't be helping companies leave the city he wants to lead.
"It is disappointing that John (Cranley) helped Paycor leave the city with its over 450 tax-paying jobs. His efforts undercut the city's efforts to retain jobs and businesses," said Vice Mayor Roxanne Qualls, who is running against Cranley, in an emailed statement.
The move comes despite Cincinnati's various attempts to hang on to Paycor, including previous tax deals. In 2001, then-Councilman Cranley and the rest of City Council approved tax incentives to keep the company in Cincinnati, retain its 142 jobs at the time and create another 25. The city administration estimated the deal would cost the city $225,750 and generate $546,000 in net tax revenue over five years.
In 2006, Cranley and seven council members approved another incentive package to further secure Paycor's stay in Cincinnati.
But the deals also required Paycor to remain in Cincinnati through 2015. Since Paycor's move violates the agreement, the city administration says it plans to claw back some of the tax benefits given to the company.
In other words, Cranley in 2001 and 2006 approved tax deals with Paycor that the company, with his help, is now set to break.
City spokesperson Meg Olberding says the clawback process will begin after Paycor moves to Norwood in 2014. So if Cranley is elected by voters on Nov. 5, he would be mayor as the city is taking back some of the money it gave away.
Although the city is taking a hit, Cranley's relations with the payroll company appear unscathed. Paycor CEO Bob Coughlin contributed $1,100 to Cranley's campaign on Aug. 20, according to campaign finance reports.
Updated with more details about the tax deals between Cincinnati and Paycor.
CityBeat doesn't like to revel in anyone's misery or misfortune. Sometimes, though, there's a confluence between a person's political philosophy and subsequent events that begs for attention and analysis. One such instance is the foreclosure and impending sale of the house owned by an anti-tax leader.
Activists continue to protest Western & Southern's treatment of the Anna Louise Inn, which has been helping women in the Lytle Park neighborhood for more than a century. CityBeat last week reported the details of Western & Southern's failure to purchase the property when it had the chance and the company's subsequent attempts to force the Inn to leave the neighborhood anyway.
The Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition, released a statement on Saturday describing the protest banner as proof for local and national leaders that Western & Southern's actions won't be tolerated. The statement read: "We will continue to up the ante until you stop attacking the hard-working women of the Anna Louise Inn."
Josh Spring, executive director of the Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition, said in an email to CityBeat that the plane flew for two 30-minute stints on Sunday. Spring said protesters distributed 2,000 flyers outside the tournament's gates and that the people who learned what Western & Southern was doing generally expressed frustration. The banner was made possible by contributions from several local organizations, including Occupy Work and Wages, Amos Project, the Homeless Coalition, SEIU Local 1, Mount Auburn Presbyterian church and other concerned citizens and groups.
The banner asks people to go to stpws.com to learn more. The website redirects to www.southernwestern.net, which is the site where activists finally were able to publish a satirical video parodying a Western & Southern spokesperson proud of his company's attacks on the Anna Louise Inn. The video was originally posted in June to YouTube and Vimeo, but was removed for copyright infringement shortly after Western & Southern found out about it. Western & Southern didn't return CityBeat's calls back then asking whether or not W&S was involved in forcing the removal of the video. The website includes a change.org petition asking Western & Southern to stop suing the Anna Louise Inn.
Cincinnati's Historic Conservation Board is scheduled to hear arguments on Aug. 27 that could lead to a conditional use permit and allow the Anna Louise Inn to move forward with a renovation Western & Southern stalled by suing the Inn. It will take place 3 p.m. on the seventh floor of 805 Central Ave.
Read this week's CityBeat cover story on the issue here.
Merry Christmas. Now, get out.
A memo sent today from a top Gannett Co. executive indicates layoffs are coming at the company's newspapers — including The Cincinnati Enquirer — by the first week in December.
With Republican support and Democratic opposition, the Ohio House Finance Committee approved a budget bill today that would ban comprehensive sex education, defund Planned Parenthood and fund crisis pregnancy centers that pro-choice groups call "anti-choice."
Citing the possibility of "gateway sexual activity," the bill would make it so teachers can be fined up to $5,000 if they explain the use of condoms and other forms of birth control to high school students. It would also prohibit individuals and groups from distributing birth control on school grounds.
The bill pushes abstinence-only education to curtail any promotion, implicit or explicit, of gateway sexual activity. To define such activity, the bill cites Ohio's criminal code definition for "sexual contact," which is defined as "any touching of an erogenous zone of another, including without limitation the thigh, genitals, buttock, pubic region, or, if the person is a female, a breast."
The bill would also redirect federal funding to defund Planned Parenthood and shift funds to crisis pregnancy centers, which CityBeat covered in further detail here.
"Today the Ohio House Finance Committee voted to send our state back to the 1950s," said Kellie Copeland, executive director of NARAL Pro-Choice Ohio, in a statement. "The Ohio House is doing everything they can to restrict access to reproductive health care and medically accurate information that help Ohioans live healthy lives. (Gov. John) Kasich can stop these dangerous attacks on women's health care. We need him to speak out against these budget provisions and to line-item veto these dangerous measures when they reach his desk."
Researchers have found abstinence-only programs to be generally ineffective. A 2007 study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health found abstinence-only programs have no impact on rates for teenage pregnancy or vaginal intercourse, while comprehensive programs that include birth control education reduce rates.
A 2011 study from researchers at the University of Georgia that looked at data from 48 states concurred abstinence-only programs do not reduce the rate of teenage pregnancy. The study indicated states with the lowest teenage pregnancy rates tend to have the most comprehensive sex and HIV education programs.
When looking at three ways to prevent unintended pregnancies for a 2012 study, the Brookings Center on Children and Families found the most cost-effective policy was to increase funding for family planning services through the Medicaid program. In other words, if governments increased spending on birth control programs, they would eventually save money.
Still, a 2010 study from a University of Pennsylvania researcher found abstinence-only education programs may delay sexual activity. The study, which tracked black middle school students over two years, found students in an abstinence-only program had lower rates of sexual activity than students in the comprehensive program.
At hearings on April 12, anti-abortion groups praised abstinence-only education for promoting chastity.
Touts Mandel's Ability To Consistently Repeat Previously Debunked Lies: "Us Serial Liars Need To Stick Together"COLUMBUS, OHIO – The Boy Who Cried Wolf announced his endorsement of Josh Mandel today, ending speculation about who the world renowned liar would support in the Ohio senate race this November. "Josh Mandel shares my ideals, my values and most importantly my less-than-casual relationship with the truth," said the Boy Who Cried Wolf. "Us serial liars need to stick together, and now that Josh Mandel's officially been crowned King of Ohio's Liars, the choice for me is simple. I'm honored to support Josh and I look forward to joining him and his special interest friends on the campaign trail as they lie about Sherrod and distort his record on the issues from now through November." The Boy Who Cried Wolf rose to fame for repeatedly proclaiming that his sheep were being attacked by a wolf, when in fact, no wolf had attacked his sheep. Much like the Boy Who Cried Wolf, Josh Mandel's star has risen largely because of his penchant for repeating previously debunked lies. This week Josh Mandel earned the "Pants on Fire crown" from Politifact Ohio, an award reserved for the worst liar among all Ohio politicians. ### Paid for by the Ohio Democratic Party, Chris Redfern, Chairman
The Enquirer's top two sports editors are resigning from the newspaper.
Assistant Managing Editor/Sports Barry Forbis and Deputy Sports Editor Rory Glynn announced their resignations last week in separate emails to fellow staffers.
Forbis, whose resignation becomes effective April 4, is leaving to join Fox Sports as a deputy managing editor in Los Angeles.
In his email, Forbis wrote, "I'll be working with Jason Whitlock, Jen Engel, Bill Reiter, Greg Couch, Reid Forgrave, Mark Kriegel and A.J. Perez, not to mention a bunch of old friends. It's a talented group, the job pays pretty well, and, uh, it's L.A., so I'd have to consider it even if everything were perfect here. It's not, of course, but you know as well as I do the challenges we have faced and the challenges you will continue to face."
Forbis also thanked his co-workers, adding, "I want you to know how privileged I feel to have worked with you. I've worked with a lot of great sports departments. I don't know of any who did more with less. You guys are better at just plain getting it done than any group I've worked with."
Glynn announced his departure in an email to the sports staff, which was then forwarded by another person to the entire news staff. The resignation apparently becomes effective Friday.
In his email, Glynn wrote, "Last week, I told Barry … that I've decided to resign at the end of the month. Barry knows this is something I've been wrestling with for months now; bless his persuasiveness, he's talked me out of it on a couple of occasions. But it's time."
Glynn added, "You all don't need me to go on about the challenges we all face. I'll just say the ever-growing demands of this job and the demands of raising four kids are difficult to balance, and if sometimes I've focused too much on the first, now I choose to focus on the second."
Online Sports Content Manager Nick Hurm will replace the editors on a temporary basis.
As part of reductions mandated by its owner, The Gannett Co., The Enquirer has laid off about 150 workers during the past two years. Also, employees have had to take five unpaid furloughs during the past three years.


text:
President Barack Obama is weighing many different options on how to handle the scourge of piracy off the coast of Somalia after American snipers killed the three pirates holding American merchant captain Richard Phillips captive on Sunday, reports The New York Times.
White House officials on Monday played down suggestions that the United States could attack pirate bases on shore, portraying that as premature at best.
Other options that the administration has before it, according to experts, are deploying more ships to patrol the region, pressing commercial shipping companies to stop paying ransoms and to do more to defend their vessels, get other nations to help capture pirates and bring them to justice, and doing more to build up a fledgling transitional government in Somalia.
"I want to be very clear that we are resolved to halt the rise of piracy in that region," Mr. Obama said. "And to achieve that goal, we're going to have to continue to work with our partners to prevent future attacks. We have to continue to be prepared to confront them when they arise. And we have to ensure that those who commit acts of piracy are held accountable for their crimes."
The Times also notes that Obama and his advisors are wary of taking the fight against pirates onto Somali soil because the images of the Blackhawk Down incident are still seared into the American consciousness, particularly a mob of Somalis dragging two dead soldiers through the streets of Mogadishu.
James Travers of the Toronto Star, however, worries that both the United States and Canada will not have the stomach to do what's necessary to stop Somalia's slide into anarchy, of which he writes piracy is only one problem.
Failed states provide more than safe haven for pirates. While the U.S., Canada and their allies concentrate on Afghanistan, Osama bin Laden and his disciples are sinking roots deeper into east and north Africa's Islamic communities. From the continent's famous Horn across the Sahara to where Canadian diplomats Robert Fowler and Louis Guay are held by one of its loose affiliates, Al Qaeda is burrowing deeper into states too hollowed out to sustain social and civil order, let alone provide basic services or national security.
One result is a for-profit threat to travelers, foreign workers, and international trade. That's the case beyond Somalia's wild seaboard to Africa's west coast where piracy, particularly off Nigeria, has long been a boom business, and along the modern caravan routes that carry extreme tourists north to south.
Sen. Russ Feingold (D-WS), who chairs the Senate's subcommittee on African affairs, has sent a letter to President Obama asking him to prop up Somalia's transitional government of Sheik Sharif Sheik Ahmed.
"People are talking about this as a piracy issue," Mr. Feingold told the Times. "That is not the core issue here. It is a symptom of a disunified government."
But Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), ranking Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee's Africa subcommittee, summoned Blackhawk Down and said any U.S. military mission in Somalia would have to be "fully supported and sustained."
He told the Times, "We cannot do what we did in Somalia before. Brave soldiers died. So everyone, especially this administration, needs to be careful before pushing that button."
See all the latest links and resources that supplement the current issue of Security Management magazine.


text:
Where for art thou Tromeo? Hanging with Maker Studios' Will Keenan… Indie movie royalty.
Hi, I'm Wilson! I'm an actor, producer, writer, intertainer, fanboy and occasional YouTuber. Welcome to my Tumblr! This is where I post about stuff I'm working on and other things I find on the Internet.
Snapchat: wilsoncleveland


text:
In 2006, Oxfam commissioned the Swasti Health Resource Center in Bangalore, India, to study whether the 2004 tsunami and its aftermath increased vulnerability to HIV infection among affected residents of coastal India. Researchers found that such vulnerability did indeed increase in most of the 30 communities studied, primarily because the physical, social, and psychological conditions after the tsunami led to a significant increase in unprotected sex with non-regular sexual partners, especially among people living in temporary shelters. The research team recommends measures that government, local NGOs, and international aid groups can take to minimize the risk of HIV infection among displaced people after major disasters.
Gender Mainstreaming During Disasters: The Case of the Tsunami in India
The 2004 tsunami had disastrous consequences for entire coastal regions bordering the Indian Ocean. Yet the tsunami's impact on the affected populations varied according to their pre-disaster vulnerabilities. Specifically, gender roles contributed to the vulnerability of girls and women by limiting their social rights and access to resources. This study, which was conducted by researchers from the Anawim Trust in Tamil Nadu, India, documents ways in which 10 local Indian NGOs brought a gender dimension to their post-tsunami emergency and rehabilitation programs in the state of Tamil Nadu, and it offers recommendations to help local and international NGOs improve their gender mainstreaming efforts at both the programmatic and organizational levels.
The fate of migrants caught up in natural disasters has only come to heightened attention in recent years as a result of calamities like Hurricane Katrina and the Asian Tsunami. These disasters show that migrants are often a forgotten group in crisis situations suffering from very particular forms of disadvantage and discrimination. The juxtaposition of these two cases highlights remarkable commonalities in the migrant experience: despite the fact that these disasters transcend two continents; economic, regional, cultural divides; disparate groups of people; and both the developed and developing world, the fate of Burmese migrants in Thailand following the Tsunami and Latino migrants in the United States after Hurricane Katrina, provides a salutary lesson for disaster planners. It is a warning which merits heeding; given the increasing likelihood of freak weather events resulting from climate change visited on an ever expanding and mobile global population.
The Tsunami hit Thailand's southern seaboard on the morning of 24 December 2004. A total of 5400 people died but the number of Burmese migrants who were killed or affected remain unknown to this day, conservative estimates suggest 7000 victims [Inter-agency, 2005, 4]. Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast of the US half a year later, on 29 August 2005. It displaced 2 million people, killed 1300, affected some 160,000 migrants (regular and irregular) [NCLR, 2006, 8; Batalova, 2005], and left a trail of damage estimated to cost between US$75-200 billion.
This paper is based on information collected by a desk review of literature on migration and natural disasters materials collected through internet research and email enquiry in 2007. The material was originally collected as part of consultancy assignments on natural disasters and migration carried out for International Organisation for Migration (IOM) [Naik et al, 2007]. The papers resulting from those assignments very briefly touched on the issues raised here, but do not develop the themes covered by this paper or make parallels between the plight of migrants facing disasters in the developing and developed world. The analysis therefore is an original comparison of the impacts of the Tsunami and Hurricane Katrina on migrants. The paper is based on documents obtained from: UN agencies, inter-governmental organisations (INGO), human rights organisations, research institutes, sector journals, national non-governmental organizations (NGO), lobby groups, government bodies and press agencies.
Humanitarian Action on the Battlefields of the Global War on Terror
The overall aim of this article is to illustrate the recent challenges to humanitarian action caused by the doctrine of the Global War on Terror. Therefore, the first part will give an illustrated overview of how insecurity in the field influences the performance of humanitarian actors and how beneficiaries suffer from this change. A very common perception among the beneficiaries of humanitarian aid, explicitly in conflict zones like Afghanistan and Iraq, is that relief action is conducted and somehow even imposed by foreign states, and therefore humanitarian aid is another tool of western imperialism. The impact of counter-terrorist donor strategies and security concerns of humanitarian actors is described in the second part. The main focus of this article will be: (1) donors policies, (2) action of implementing partners, and (3) beneficiaries.
The Costly Neglect: Burgeoning Chronic Food Insecurity
This paper challenges the traditional view about chronically food insecure populations, in contrast to relief-assisted population, who are often seen as a 'structural' or 'long-term' problem, meriting neither an emergency nor recovery assistance. The author puts forward three interlinked assumptions related to chronic food insecurity in developing countries: a) investments in agricultural and rural development over the past decades have declined significantly; b) relief interventions have become effective in saving lives but do not go a further step to encourage investment in recovery of disaster affected population and the food insecure; and c) recovery programmes suffer from lack of best practices, absence of institutional means and dedicated financial arrangements.
The problem of chronically food-insecure populations must be recognised nationally and internationally as a priority, and as a distinct economic group with specific political, security and humanitarian dimensions. Nationally led specific institutions and dedicated recovery funds that focus on the chronically food insecure population must be established. This will guarantee recovery for the chronically food insecure populations and for those requiring sustained assistance following a relief measure.
This field study represents the second half of a modest research project to investigate whether international Islamic aid agencies can make use of their privileged relationship in majority Muslim societies to achieve high standards of efficacity, as Christian agencies are often able to do in majority Christian societies. (The first case study was conducted in Mali, where the evidence was clearly positive.) Post-tsunami relief aid in Aceh, Indonesia, was chosen for the second case study, with a focus on rehousing programmes. Attention is given to the contrasting programmes of the Turkish Red Crescent Society (strictly speaking, a non-confessional organization) and of two British agencies, Islamic Relief Worldwide and Muslim Aid. The conclusion is reached that whereas benefit has been gained from the 'cultural proximity' of Muslim agencies, this is a problematic concept and the main reason for the high reputation of all three organizations in Aceh has been the recognized quality and reliability of their service delivery. However, in the current international political climate where the entire sector of Islamic charities is experiencing an overreaction against them after 9/11, it should not be necessary for a Muslim charity to demonstrate that it can do better than non-Muslim charities – only that it can do as well.
A Theory of Obligation
This article presents a theory of obligation in the context of humanitarianism. Its foundational assumption is that there exists a moral imperative to assist the structurally dispossessed and functionally abused. It builds particularly on the cross-disciplinary work (both academic and applied) of anthropologists, but also of political scientists, sociologists, human rights specialists, and others. The links between human rights and humanitarianism are stressed, while suggesting principles that can guide humanitarian organizations as they serve those in need. Humanitarianism is defined as "crossing a boundary;" risk usually is encountered by the service provider as scarce resources are used to help the vulnerable. Obligation is defined, in part, as "what one should do." A theory emerges as the "morally possible" and the "materially possible" intersect. Notions of human dignity are shown not to be appropriate in orienting the real-world work of humanitarians; notions of fairness are more appropriate as humanitarian work is organized and implemented. "Pragmatic humanitarianism" occurs as principled guidelines and achievable actions merge, and as non-neutral stances are taken as (for example) refugees are assisted. Humanitarian aid is shown to be fundamentally a moral relationship based on the obligation of "those who have" to address the felt needs of "those who have not." Examples from Bosnia are featured.
Local and Regional Procurement of Food Aid in Africa: Impact and Policy Issues
EC policy endorses local and regional procurement of food aid commodities (LRP), a practice that is believed to assist in the development of local agriculture and livelihoods in supplying countries. The research hypothesis for this study was that such procurement of food aid can make a much larger contribution to the economies of developing countries, and poor people in particular, and that policies can be put in place to increase such benefits.
Available literature was reviewed, and case studies were undertaken in Ethiopia and Uganda where combined LRP started in the 1990s and in recent years has been running at over 300,000 tonnes per annum. Available information permits certain conclusions about the impact of LRP, as follows:
- It provides much greater net benefits for rural and urban populations than equivalent expenditure on tied food aid (provided it is competently managed, and the local/regional supply base allows the activity to be developed without major adverse impacts on consumers – where this is not the case imported in-kind food aid from developed countries may sometimes be more appropriate).
- While no systematic assessment has been made of the overall impact of LRP on price stability, several cases can be cited where it has increased price instability. This does not call into question the value of LRP, but points to the need for more flexible funding arrangements, further developing market analysis capabilities, and untying food aid so that LRP, in-kind food and cash support may be combined in a way which has a benign effect on price movements. WFP's Advance Financing Facility is a positive step in making funding arrangements more flexible.
- The evidence for impact on market efficiency is mixed. Local procurement has led to investment and improved practices among traders supplying food aid, but has not greatly impacted the conduct of the regular grain trade in source countries, or on the quality of grain in that trade. In Uganda, much of the LRP is logistically inefficient, and it has promoted investments in drying and storage plant that are excessively concentrated in Kampala, and poorly located to cope with a scenario of declining food aid quantities.
- LRP is having some positive impact on the development of Ethiopia's export trade, but in Uganda, LRP has not been organised so as to equip traders – in terms of investments, financing and quality management – to develop an export market that would cushion them in the event of a major reduction in WFP purchases.
- In both countries, food aid grain sales are highly concentrated among a few suppliers. However there is no conclusive evidence that this market concentration is a source of market inefficiency.
- Notwithstanding the strong performance of certain groups, LRP aimed exclusively at producer organisations has proved an inefficient use of resources.
- Local and regional procurement have led to the development of industries for the manufacture of blended food commodities, and diversification into the production of soybeans, notably in Ethiopia.
Food aid agencies can adjust tendering procedures to mitigate certain problems, but in countries where they are involved for the medium or long term, they should consider more comprehensive approaches to market development which leave behind stronger and more efficient structures that will serve the host countries better. To this end, they should work closely with partners seeking to improve the performance of grain markets in areas such as contracting, warehouse receipt systems and exchange trading.
The findings confirm the research hypothesis and the following specific recommendations are made to those concerned with the distribution of food aid:to devote more resources to assessing impact of local purchase on supplying areas; to improve the information base for decision-making; for those still supplying in-kind food aid to untie a large proportion; to take all steps to facilitate timely and effective decisions by local food aid managers; to investigate the scope for 'food aid pipelines' in countries where food reserves still exist and function efficiently; to focus on developing existing marketing systems rather than exclusive relationships with producer organisations, and; where food aid is expected to continue at significant levels for several years, to work proactively with partner organisations to establish new market institutions with a view to improving the performance of local and regional markets.
Reversing food insecurity: Linking global commitments to local recovery needs
Food insecurity and chronic marginalisation of poor households have been both symptoms and causes of humanitarian crises in the Third World over the past decades. Despite massive international assistance, and extraordinary technological advances, food insecurity and hunger is expanding, engulfing, every year, millions of people. It is puzzling why hunger continues to affect 850 million people worldwide despite commitments from global citizens of high moral and financial standing, world leaders and national authorities to tackle the problem.
The long-term deterioration in livelihoods coupled with civil strife, sharp inequalities in resource endowment and adverse climate are responsible for humanitarian crisis; if current trends continue, food insecurity risks becoming permanent in some regions of Africa, and defying existing framework of humanitarian assistance for sustainable recovery.
The author underscores a missing link between the international desire to ending hunger and poverty and resource allocation for recovery. For communities, it is the inequalities in opportunities and access to resources that have led to marginalisation; neglect that often is the source of armed conflict. In fact, hunger with its attendant political, security and humanitarian implications is one of the global threats of our times and can become a disruptive force of the future. The key to successful food security strategies is an understanding of the community, its resource endowment in a specific local farming system, and link investment decisions to communities and households that will enhance and create conditions to foster growth and resilience. The duration and intensity of investment are crucial factors of success to protect recovery gains from erosion due to recurrent risk and disasters.
This paper will explore how the Protection Cluster, as part of the new United Nations led cluster approach in emergency environments, can serve to implement the international community's responsibility to protect civilians in the field and will make a policy recommendation to ensure the international community is better able to carry this responsibility out and fulfill it. The paper is divided into five sections: first, tracing the emergence and content of the 'Responsibility to Protect' (R2P) framework and its burgeoning acceptance as an international norm; second, the development of the cluster approach and the Protection Cluster as a means for improving the international community's protection response on the ground; third, a review and analysis of how the implementation of the Protection Cluster on a pilot basis in South Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has started to implement the R2P framework in the field as well as some challenges it faces in providing adequate protection response; fourth, a policy recommendation to the UN to institutionalize the international community's responsibility to protect citizens in the field by mandating the Protection Cluster with the responsibility to protect directly according to the R2P framework, with specific actions recommended for a new leadership structure and guidelines to make this a reality; and last, a conclusion on what this policy with the new structure and guidelines could mean, if heeded and instituted, for the international community's ability to protect citizens in complex emergencies around the world as well as today's major obstacle hindering this from becoming reality.
Recent Articles
- "No patients, no problems:" Exposure to risk of medical personnel working in MSF projects in Yemen's governorate of Amran
- Without Precedent or Prejudice? UNSC Resolution 2098 and its potential implications for humanitarian space in Eastern Congo and beyond
- Losing Principles in the Search for Coherence? A Field-Based Viewpoint on the EU and Humanitarian Aid


text:
To do the cool things, you have to be logged in first.
I'm a fan of
Im a fan of
Im a fan of A mid-series sweep of the Mavs and AMAZING Comebacks
Im a fan of bringing maximum energy to Game 6 & 7. Time for RipCityUpRise
Im a fan of Gerald Wallace and the teamship of the Blazer players, organization and fanbase. I'm a passionate basketball fan and 5 yr STH for Charlotte
Im a fan of How many North Carolina ties this Blazers team currently has
Im a fan of I was a free agent to the Blazer Family after the trade for Gerald Wallace. I'm a passionate basketball fan and 5 year STH for Charlotte
Im a fan of the Passion in all things to do with RipCity & UpRise
Im a fan of The passion that is RIPCITY basketball
This photo: Trail Blazers Court /
put this photo on your page
© 2004-2011 by the Portland Trail Blazers. All Rights Reserved.
Feedback / Privacy / Terms of Service / Trail Blazers Privacy / Trail Blazers Terms


text:
How to tell if you should vote for Romney, a video I did for Wake the Beast for those undecided folks in the swing states.
Please re-post if you like it, agree, or just wish we could all have flying chairs and bionic heads.
Thanks, Matt
This here is on point! But damn son. What if I really really really wanna rock a bionic skull?