text:
Main Navigation
About POTS
Upcoming Productions
Photo Journal
Summer Camp
Click here to download handbook
Who We Are
Players of the Stage, which is affectionately called POTS, started in 2000 with sixteen children getting together to put on
a recital for a church's Christmas banquet. What we thought would be a one-time gig has lasted for over ten years. POTS
has produced many plays including The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, A Christmas Carol, Tom Sawyer, Pride and Prejudice, The
Importance of Being Earnest, A Miracle Worker, and The Little Princess.
Players of the Stage's vision is to be an established, reputable Christian youth and community theatre in the Lehigh
Valley. Our Mission is to Glorify God and bring His light into the World of Theatre. We accomplish these things by
equipping our students, reaching out to the community, and strengthening the Church.
Our students are taught fundamental drama skills and theories. We do this through games, exercises, lessons, scene work
and performances that give them the basic foundation of stage presence, voice and movement, characterization and
concentration. As they grow in their skills we challenge them on an individual basis and help them find their own style
of acting that is consistent with who they are as a unique person. An added benefit to the instruction that we give to our
students is that it prepares our students for public speaking through experience in front of audiences, not to mention
our vocal exercises.
We seek to bless our community by giving the Lehigh Valley a quality family theatre. We don't do 'children's shows'
but family shows that are done with excellence so that everyone can enjoy a solid piece of theatre. Additionally, Players
of the Stage gives back to the community in a monetary way. In the fall of 2005 Players of the Stage began doing their
shows as benefit shows to local charities. They have donated proceeds to Care Net, American Ministries to the Deaf,
and to the Allentown Rescue Mission. Since then they have raised over 65,000 dollars, every cent of which has gone to
those organizations.
At Players of the Stage we believe that God created the world and that He is the originator of all the many art forms
we see today. Since God is the Master Playwright, we have a short devotional time at most of our rehearsals from the
Bible that help the students grow personally and creatively. Here students learn the importance of giving glory to God by
living one's entire life for Him, and by going out into His world to work for Him. Students are trained to be respectful
of their elders, to be diligent, disciplined servants, and to work together as a team.
It is our desire to see the Church reestablished as a patron of the arts. We strengthen the Church by creating works of
theatre that are excellent and beautiful, by expounding upon the truths of scriptures through the stories and characters
of the plays, and providing a unique form of outreach and evangelism to their communities. Hundreds of years ago, the
Bible was presented through dramatic presentations because people could not read. As our culture today is becoming
less auditory and more visually oriented, drama is becoming once again an important way to share the Gospel of Christ.
Theatre would be nothing without an audience. Primarily, our desire is to communicate God's glory and truth to our
audiences through our plays and performances. This is not done by merely producing a bunch of "Christian" plays; but
it is done by producing plays with excellence that they proclaims God's amazing creativity and plays that are so truthful
to the condition of humanity that our need for Him will be felt – whether the play quotes scripture, mentions God, or
alludes to Christianity or not.
An Overview of the Production Process
Each show starts with auditions. At auditions we will have the parent fill out a form that gives us the students
information as well as any conflicts that there may be with the rehearsal schedule. Please bring your calendar with you to
auditions so that you can give as accurate information as possible.
After audition, casting is decided and the parents of students being offered principle roles will be contacted first to
discuss the time commitment needed for the role and whether the parent believes their child is ready and able to play a
principal role. If a student being offered a principle or supporting role has conflicts with rehearsals they will be asked to
rearrange their schedule so that they can attend every rehearsal in order to play the part.
Casting will be announced a week or two after auditions. The families will then have a set time, determined by the
director, to decide whether they accept the role or not. Once a part is accepted the registration form and fee needs to be
sent to the production manager.
Read Through
The very first rehearsal we have is a read through. We get the whole cast together and do exactly what it sounds like - we
read through the script. After that we discuss the show and the director explains the artistic concept and direction for
the show.
Blocking Days
Blocking days are when the entire cast shows up to find out where they enter, exit, move on stage etc. It is imperative
that the students bring their scripts and a pencil with them to rehearsal so that they can write down their blocking.
Depending on the size of your child's role and the show they may not need to be present for the entirety of the blocking
day. If that is the case a blocking schedule will be sent out after casting is finalized.
Rehearsals & Runs
For several rehearsals we break down the script and work on several sections of the scripts at a time. As we get closer
to the show we start runs, where we rehearse a large section of the play. This will vary from one whole act to the whole
Tech Rehearsal
Tech rehearsal is where the technical aspects of the show are worked out. There are two parts of this rehearsal. The
first part is a rehearsal just for stage and tech crew with the technical and artistic director. During this time they work
on figuring out what needs to happen and how that will happen. The second part of this rehearsal is when all the actors
come and have run of their show. This gives the actors and the crew an opportunity to rehearse together and be able to
better cement the technical aspects.
At Players of the Stage we give our students who are twelve or older the opportunity of volunteering to be on stage or
tech crew. Stage crew involves moving the props and set pieces while tech crew involves lights and sound. Our students
who participate in tech are trained by our technical director to be excellent in fulfilling the technical needs of the show.
Dress Rehearsal
Dress rehearsal is where all the actors wear their costumes and go through whatever costume changes they may have.
Dress rehearsals are treated as a show. Dress rehearsals are longer than normal rehearsals because the actors must have
time to get into costume, makeup, hair and also have time to get out of all that and put everything back in order.
Media Day
Media day is typically a dress rehearsal where members from the media are present to take pictures and have interviews
with the actors. No one ever quite knows what will happen during media day as the reporters needs may be different
than anticipated but it is always an exciting day.
Production Week
Production week is the most exciting time during the rehearsal process. We meet everyday for a minimum of two hours.
This is the week when the artistic and technical aspects of the show are polished and we get ready for our audiences.
Everyone is running high on adrenaline as we get our show ready for our audience members. This can also be one of
the most exhausting weeks and can be all consuming leaving little room for other things besides drama. You may find
that your child(ren) need more time to rest and rehearse at home during this week. We encourage families to schedule as
little outside activity as possible during production week so that the students can focus on the show.
Performances are the highlight of the process. Cast call is an hour and a half before the start of a show. Students need
to arrive on time for their cast call so that they can get into costume and focused. After the show a student must put all
their costumes and costumes pieces neatly away in the dressing room before they can go home.
Strike happens at the end of the very last show. During strike the stage is torn down, props are put away, costumes are
packed up to be washed, and the building is cleaned and restored to it's original setup. This takes several hours and is an
all hands effort.
Cast Party
The week after our final performance we have a cast party to celebrate the success of the show and the blessings of God
on our work. We have a potluck dinner for our cast and their families and have a time of fellowship. We also present the
money we raised to the charity during the evening.
What to Expect
Expect your child to have a wonderful time! We want our students to have a challenging and incredibly fun experience.
Our rehearsals are often filled with laughter as we play theatrical games and have times of interacting and getting to
know one another better. Being a part of a production often gives the cast a family like feel by the end of the show and
many of our students form strong friendships during the rehearsal process.
Expect your child to learn! Every week we do vocal exercises, theatre exercises and have lessons that teach our students
many skills for the theatre as well as everyday life. Many of our lessons are accompanied by handouts that they will be
given for future reference. We have a strong emphasis on helping your child(ren) grow to be the very best actor they can
be and we do this through activities, lessons and experience.
Expect your child to work hard! We are a youth and community theatre but we believe that children can and will excel
when pushed to it, and we push them. Theatre is a lot of work at rehearsal and at home.You will need to give your child
time at home to work on their scripts and if your child is younger you may need to help them with that.
Expect your child to participate in something amazing! Players of the Stage gives away a portion or the entirety of their
donations to a local charity. God has richly blessed our group and given us the amazing opportunities of giving tens of
thousands of dollars away to groups who are ministering to those in need in our community. For our students, being
able to participate in such successful fundraisers is an incredible opportunity for them. It's a rare thing that such a young
child can have such a huge impact but that is exactly what happens at Players of the Stage.
Expect your child to be told about Jesus! Players of the Stage is a Christian, Bible believing organization. We welcome
members of all beliefs to be apart of our group but we will be praying in Jesus' name and talking about Him on a weekly
basis. We base everything, including our acting, on the work of God and His Son; to leave that out of our production
process would undermine everything we are seeking to do and would lesson the quality of our performances.
What They'll Need
Drama is very active. Students should dress in comfortable, loose fitting, and modest clothing that allows them to move
freely without the worry of revealing anything. Additionally, they should wear flat shoes that are easy to move in.
We ask that every student brings in their own bag with their names on it that they can use to store their costumes
in. Please do not bring in plastic bags or backpacks as we have found them not to work very well. We need to have
everyone's bag in before the first dress rehearsal.
Often we ask that the students provide their own socks, shoes, slips and undershirts. Depending on the show, students
may be asked to bring other items from home to be used as costumes. All items brought from home must be marked
as 'belongs to (name)' to prevent the items getting confused with the costumes that belong to the theatre. Anything that
your child(ren) brings in to use as a costume becomes property of Players of the Stage for the duration of the show and
the student must ask before taking it home. The costume manager will communicate with you early on in the rehearsal
process if your child(ren) is expected to bring anything.
During production week we strongly encourage everyone to bring deodorant, toothbrush and toothpaste with them.
Often we have rehearsal before a show and it is helpful to be able to freshen up before getting into costumes. We put a
lot of time and money into our costumes and so we want to take the best care of them as possible, so personal hygiene
is a must! We ask that the students bring in their own hairbrush and/or comb and hair things to dress rehearsals and
For girls who regularly wear make up, we ask that they bring make up remover or to not apply make up the days of dress
rehearsals, media day and shows. Girls who are playing adult women in the performances may wear makeup but the
colors and application must be approved by one of the staff.
The Team Effort
Theatre is a collaborative art form, and even a small production takes many people to make it happen. We are always
excited about the children, families and adults who participate in our productions. In order for everything to run
smoothly and for our end product to be as excellent as possible, Players of the Stage holds to the following policies:
Behavioral Policy
We are a youth and community theatre. We expect that our students will act like children because that's usually what
they are! However, we also expect that they will be respectful to the staff and each other. We hold our students to the
following theatre etiquette and common courtesies.
If we have behavioral problems with a student we will address it with them privately. If it is a recurring problem we
will talk with the parents. If a student is being disruptive and is not changing his behavior after attempts made by the
staff to talk to him and his parents, they may be pulled from the show if the staff believe it is in the best interest of the
production's integrity. If a child is pulled from a show, tuition will not be refunded.
Rehearsal Etiquette
We ask that our students arrive fifteen minutes early before rehearsal begins to ensure that we start on time and
that they be willing to stay fifteen minutes after the rehearsal to help clean up if needed.
Chewing gum is not allowed during rehearsal as it inhibits the students speaking properly. Any student chewing
gum upon arrival will be asked to throw out their gum.
Water is allowed in the rehearsal area but food and other drinks are not. We will have a break during each
rehearsal that will allow students to eat a snack if they desire to pack one.
When an instructor is teaching, or when a student has been called on by an instructor to share their thoughts
we expect the other students will be respectful and listen quietly. The instructors are expected to give the same courtesy
to the students.
We expect our students to be cooperative with the directions given by the staff from being asked to help clean
up to a direction for their acting. We encourage them to do this with cheerful attitudes. Our directors desire to be
sensitive to each of the students and what they are comfortable doing. If a director ever suggests blocking or an
approach to their character that the student is uncomfortable with we encourage the student to talk to their director
about it. The director will work with that student to find a solution that fits with their artistic concept and is comfortable
for the student.
We do not allow cell phones or other electronics to be on during rehearsals, as they are often distracting and
take away from the rehearsal experience. If a student needs to make a phone call they must ask permission from one of
the staff to either turn on their cell phone or to use one of the staff's phones.
We expect students to bring their script and a pencil with them to every rehearsal. If a student or family loses a
script and needs to replace it at the cost that POTS paid for it.
Backstage Etiquette
It is imperative that students are absolutely silent backstage so as to maintain the professionalism and integrity
of our shows. We expect our students and staff to not talk backstage during performances and rehearsals unless there is an
absolute need.
Props, lights, sound and sets are not to be touched or played with by anyone, including the tech and stage crew,
outside of practicing with them for rehearsal or using them in the show. If an actor or tech/stage crew member would
like to have extra time to practice with props they must get permission from either the artistic director or the technical
director. If a member of tech or stage crew desires to practice with lights, sound or sets they must get permission from
the technical director.
Costumes are not to be played with. Like props they are only to be used during rehearsals and shows unless
permission is given by the artistic director or the costume manager. Eating is not allowed in costume unless it is in the
show. Drinking water while in costume is allowed and strongly encouraged! If a student needs to take a costume home
for some reason they must get permission from the costume manager. If you damage a costume you may be required to
pay for it's replacement.
Attendance Policy
Every part, even an extra, is an incredible important piece of the whole production. Just like you can't finish a puzzle
with one piece missing, regardless of how small, so our rehearsals are impossible to run smoothly without everyone
there. Because of that we have a strict attendance policy. Players of the Stage keeps rehearsals to a minimum to
accommodate everyone's busy schedules so we expect people to come to the scheduled rehearsal that we do have.
Missing Rehearsals
Students with small parts may have two excused absences from non-mandatory rehearsals. A small part,
is usually an extra or characters with few lines. However a director may sometimes use characters with few lines in
important blocking, therefore the director has the final say as to whether a part is small or not. All absence requests
must be approved by the director of the play that the student is participating in. If a student is unable to get an excused
absence before a rehearsal, they are expected to contact the director to let them know why they did not attend. Students
with principal parts must attend every rehearsal. When they accept to play a principal or supporting role they are
committing to rearrange any conflicts that arise. If a students misses three rehearsals or a mandatory rehearsal they will
be pulled from the show.
Obviously, there are some situations that cannot be controlled, and there do come times when it is absolutely
unavoidable to miss rehearsal. Things like serious illness, death in family, family emergencies, are understood and will
not be held against anyone if they have to miss a rehearsal because of such an event. If a conflict comes up that the
student or parent feels is unavoidable, they can discuss it with the director of the play and they will do their best to come
up with a solution that is compassionate to the situation of the student and/or family without compromising the
integrity of the show.
Mandatory Rehearsals
Because of our limited rehearsal time we strongly encourage everyone to view all rehearsals as mandatory and
not use up their two excused absences especially since unexpected things like illness do often occur! We do have
rehearsals that a student must be able to attend in order to take part in the show, regardless of the size of their role.
Mandatory rehearsals include:
Tech Rehearsal
Dress Rehearsal
The three Thursday rehearsals before production week
Production week rehearsals
If a student misses a mandatory rehearsal, they will be pulled from the show and their tuition will not be refunded.
Before you commit to a show we strongly encourage you to look over your calendar and make sure that your child can
attend all mandatory rehearsals. This is our policy regarding missed rehearsals, however we reserve the right to adapt our
policies for individual situations that the production staff believe warrant.
Tardiness and Early Dismissa
Players of the Stage is not merely a production company. We are a teaching company. We have lessons and
activities that train our actors and help them advance in their skills. Having a student come to a rehearsal late or leave
early, may not only impede our ability to start the rehearsal but it can impede their performance at that rehearsal. If a
student is thirty minutes late to or leaves early from a rehearsal, without getting approval from their director, it will be
considered an unexcused absence.
If your child desires to participate in one of Players of the Stage's productions but has an unavoidable,
recurring conflict that prevents them from arriving on time or requires them to leave early, it may still be possible for
them to participate in the show as an extra, as long as they can attend all mandatory rehearsals for the whole time. This
decision is up to the discretion of the director and it must be worked out with him or her.
Payment Policy
Players of the Stage keeps our tuition very low so that it is easier for everyone to be involved. The non-refundable
registration fee is to be sent in with the registration form. The registration form will be sent out with the casting
announcement. The form is to be sent to the production manager with the fee before rehearsals start. If the form or the
fee is late you may be charged a fifteen dollar late fee.
The remainder of the tuition is to be payed on the first day of rehearsal. If necessary a payment plan can be arranged
with the production manager.
If tuition is not given on the day of rehearsal or is late according to the pre-arranged payment plan, one of the staff will
remind you to please bring in your tuition at the next rehearsal. If payment continues to be unpaid you may be charged a
fifteen dollar late fee.
Parental Involvement Policy
We have at least one mandatory parent meeting for each show. We do this so that we are able to communicate with the
parents what we our goals are for each show and also to get feedback. It is mandatory that one parent of each student
attends the meeting and we expect that they will make every effort to come. If there are circumstances beyond their
control that prevent them from attending, they are required to find a way to get the information from the meeting and
are expected to let the artistic director and production manager know beforehand that they will not be able to attend
and to let them know afterwards that they have received the information from another source. And of course, we always
want feedback so if a parent is unable to attend a meeting we encourage them to let us know their thoughts after they
have had a chance to review the information they've been given.
Players of the Stage heavily relies on their parents to get everything done. Parents must perform a production week
job in order for their children to participate in the production. We also ask that parents who are able to volunteer on
committees. Information about committees and production jobs will be available at auditions.
Fundraising Policy
Currently, Players of the Stage has no outside sources of support. All of our production costs must be raised by our
group. We typically need seventy-five dollars per student to run all of our shows in the black, though the actual dollar
amount is subject to change depending on the show. We ask that our parents help offset the costs by doing various
fundraisers. We expect that each family will make an effort to raise the amount needed to cover the cost of the
Set up and Strike Policy
Because Players of the Stage currently does not have our own building, we often have to do extensive set up before we
can rehearsal. This is especially true for our tech rehearsal, our dress rehearsal and the first day of production week. We
will ask those who are available to come early on those days to help us with set up.
Strike happens at the end of the last show and is the most time intensive tear down as the stage needs to be broken
down, props need to be put away, costumes need to be packed up to be washed, and the theatre space needs to be
cleaned. This process can take several hours lasting late into the night and sometimes into the early morning of the next
day. Most theatres require every cast member to participate in strike until everything is done. As we work with young
children and families that have young children we do not require that from our families. We do ask that you stay and
help for as long as you can so that the staff is not doing everything by themselves early into the next morning.
Joining POTS
Players of the Stage has from 30 - 70 kids involved with each show. We take great enjoyment out of working with our
students and seeing them grow in the skills and talents that God has given them. For information about upcoming
camps and auditions or if you have any questions please e-mail firstname.lastname@example.com. We look forward to
working with and getting to know your student.


text:
Over the past thirteen years, and with the support of hundreds of landowners, we
have been able to plant 1 million trees in the Kettle Creek watershed. With winter
underway, the furthest thing from our minds is planting trees. However, this is
the time when placement of orders ensures good selection of stock and proper planning
for site preparation. The Kettle Creek Conservation Authority has a wide variety
of native tree and shrub seedlings available for Spring 2014 for the low cost of
Once again this year, KCCA is offering services to better assist landowners that
do not have the time or ability to undertake site preparation or additional site
maintenance post planting. Staff would be happy to arrange a site visit with you
to help you plan your planting project. Larger sites may be eligible for further
price discounts.
We cannot guarantee our Tree Planting Program will exist in the same capacity in
years to come, so we are encouraging landowners to contact us if you are interested
in planting trees on your property. Please also feel free to provide our contact
information to your neighbours and friends who also may be interested in planting
trees on their property.
The Kettle Creek Conservaton Authority (KCCA) is offering natve and Carolinian tree
and shrub species to private landowners in the Kettle Creek watershed. This offer
will focus on enhancing interior forest habitat, extending forest corridors and
creatng windbreaks and stream buffers within the Kettle Creek watershed.
Trees purchased through this program may be planted by the landowner or through
KCCA's full planting service.
Trees have been preordered and for some species, limited quantities are available.
To ensure your trees are planted in Spring 2014, please complete your application
Please note this is a reforestation program, not a landscaping program, and the
trees must be planted in the Kettle Creek watershed. To have KCCA plant the trees
for you, you must place a minimum order of 750 seedlings with each species selected
in multiples of 50. To plant the trees yourself, you must place a minimum order
of 200 seedlings with each species selected in multiples of 50.
We look forward to continuing to work with you to improve the environmental conditions
of the Kettle Creek watershed. To obtain a detailed list of species available, to
order trees or shrubs or arrange a site visit, or to receive more information, please
contact Jeff Lawrence at 519-631-1270 ext. 231,
firstname.lastname@example.com or Betsy McClure at 519-631-1270 ext.
229, email@example.com

subset: commoncrawl


text:
This was inevitable, I guess.
Timelines are taking over our personal pages, and someone at Facebook decided we absolutely must have them on business pages as well.
In fact, it's only three days away, so if you haven't done so yet, now would be a good time to hop over to your Facebook pages and make the switch over to the new layout. If you don't then Facebook will do it for you on March 30th.
Key Features of the New Facebook Pages
As far as the front end of your page is concerned, this is a visually dramatic change. You will no longer be able to set up any welcome pages encouraging visitors to like your page, using promises of exclusive content revealed only to those who clicked the Like button.
Instead, you now have a new large prime real estate, in terms of visuals: the header. A huge space, in Internet terms, of 850 by 315 pixels is up at the top of your business page, for you to cleverly put to use towards branding your page.
The body of the page also complies with the timeline layout, which means your updates now show up in two columns. While you do have some control over this, with the option to pin posts or highlight them by making them stretch across two columns at once, this is a tricky set up. Stretch an update to cover both columns and you risk an overall sense of imbalance on your page.
As with personal profiles, the timeline allows you to set dates to your updates, essentially allowing you to work back a history of your company or product with "historic" updates. Dates go back to 1905, by the way.
These are the main changes, as far as I can tell. If you noticed any other significant differences, please do share them in the comments section.


text:
The vision is dazzling. The portrayal of family life palpable. The ending ... well, let's go back to the vision.
Grand Mesa
Tom, get some fresh air and play some stick-ball.
Nov 17 - 06:33 AM
samii y
I have to agree. The film is beautiful but I just wish they knew how to end it.
Jan 16 - 09:49 AM
Seba Obando
I felt the same way
Mar 3 - 07:41 PM
Abdulrhman Salama
couldnt agree more sir this film was just beautiful
May 21 - 02:35 AM


text:
One of my favourite TV shows is Dragons Den. It is very inspirational to watch start-ups come up with ideas and take them to a whole new level through investment opportunities. I hope that by putting these top 5 Inventions that I have personally found to be the best ones in front of entrepreneurs and business people for ambition and hope that when you dream of something, it is possible to make it real!.
UNO Motorbike
A prototype invention from California, this guy really stunned the investors and everyone bought into the company with a total share amount of 20%.
Hungry House
After a few knock backs and critism there was a turn around which lead 2 investors (James and Duncan )to buy into their business. The demand of food ordering online and lack of competition made this a more enticing opportunity for the investors.
Theo loved the idea and bought into this at 40% ownership, a very smart move as he owns a chain stationary shops in the country. The concept was very unique and well presented. A graphic design portfolio concept which enables you to carry around presentations without having to crease your work.
Mark Champkins
Marks overall concept is to help kids. He has a lot of inventions and products that are already out there and generating income. Peter buys in 100,000 pounds at 40% because he like his ideas.
Household Gadgets
Toaster bag which sold 10 million, and turned over 1 million pounds and is already in Tesco and all the major retailers. A great buy by James at 200,000 pounds at 40%
If the inventors themselves haven't patented their ideas, then the NHS should do it for them, first paying all of these inventors a 'thank you' bounty, licence the devices for manufacture and sale globally, then apart from a small royalty to the inventor, use the funds to finance healthcare here…
Great videos. Thanks for sharing it with us. These are really inspirational videos for all the startup founders.
Keep sharing.
great videos,………… this kind of video always gives valuable information to the viewer. I always learn many things from this kind of video and I love seeing knowledgeable video…..
I really appreciate your effort of helping startup founders.
I personally think, in startups, ideas and investment both matters equally.


text: DRUM Collection: Behavioral & Community Health Research Works http://hdl.handle.net/1903/1636 2014-09-24T02:25:16Z 2014-09-24T02:25:16Z Translating evidence-based interventions for implementation: Experiences from Project HEAL in African American churches Holt, Cheryl L. Tagai, Erin K. Scheirer, Mary Ann Santos, Sherie Lou Z. Bowie, Janice Haider, Muhiuddin Slade, Jimmie L. Wang, Min Qi Whitehead, Tony http://hdl.handle.net/1903/15521 2014-07-11T10:10:02Z 2014-05-31T00:00:00Z Title: Translating evidence-based interventions for implementation: Experiences from Project HEAL in African American churches Authors: Holt, Cheryl L.; Tagai, Erin K.; Scheirer, Mary Ann; Santos, Sherie Lou Z.; Bowie, Janice; Haider, Muhiuddin; Slade, Jimmie L.; Wang, Min Qi; Whitehead, Tony Abstract: Background Community-based approaches have been increasing in the effort to raise awareness and early detection for cancer and other chronic disease. However, many times, such interventions are tested in randomized trials, become evidence-based, and then fail to reach further use in the community. Project HEAL (Health through Early Awareness and Learning) is an implementation trial that aims to compare two strategies of implementing evidence-based cancer communication interventions in African American faith-based organizations. Method This article describes the community-engaged process of transforming three evidence-based cancer communication interventions into a coherent, branded strategy for training community health advisors with two delivery mechanisms. Peer community health advisors receive training through either a traditional classroom approach (with high technical assistance/support) or a web-based training portal (with low technical assistance/support). Results We describe the process, outline the intervention components, report on the pilot test, and conclude with lessons learned from each of these phases. Though the pilot phase showed feasibility, it resulted in modifications to data collection protocols and team and community member roles and expectations. Conclusions Project HEAL offers a promising strategy to implement evidence-based interventions in community settings through the use of technology. There could be wider implications for chronic disease prevention and control. Description: Funding for Open Access provided by the UMD Libraries Open Access Publishing Fund. 2014-05-31T00:00:00Z Evaluating the disparity of female breast cancer mortality among racial groups - a spatiotemporal analysis Hsu, Chiehwen Ed Jacobson, Holly Soto Mas, Francisco http://hdl.handle.net/1903/7472 2007-12-01T05:39:28Z 2004-02-26T00:00:00Z Title: Evaluating the disparity of female breast cancer mortality among racial groups - a spatiotemporal analysis Authors: Hsu, Chiehwen Ed; Jacobson, Holly; Soto Mas, Francisco Abstract: Background: The literature suggests that the distribution of female breast cancer mortality demonstrates spatial concentration. There remains a lack of studies on how the mortality burden may impact racial groups across space and over time. The present study evaluated the geographic variations in breast cancer mortality in Texas females according to three predominant racial groups (non-Hispanic White, Black, and Hispanic females) over a twelve-year period. It sought to clarify whether the spatiotemporal trend might place an uneven burden on particular racial groups, and whether the excess trend has persisted into the current decade. Methods: The Spatial Scan Statistic was employed to examine the geographic excess of breast cancer mortality by race in Texas counties between 1990 and 2001. The statistic was conducted with a scan window of a maximum of 90% of the study period and a spatial cluster size of 50% of the population at risk. The next scan was conducted with a purely spatial option to verify whether the excess mortality persisted further. Spatial queries were performed to locate the regions of excess mortality affecting multiple racial groups. Results: The first scan identified 4 regions with breast cancer mortality excess in both non- Hispanic White and Hispanic female populations. The most likely excess mortality with a relative risk of 1.12 (p = 0.001) occurred between 1990 and 1996 for non-Hispanic Whites, including 42 Texas counties along Gulf Coast and Central Texas. For Hispanics, West Texas with a relative risk of 1.18 was the most probable region of excess mortality (p = 0.001). Results of the second scan were identical to the first. This suggested that the excess mortality might not persist to the present decade. Spatial queries found that 3 counties in Southeast and 9 counties in Central Texas had excess mortality involving multiple racial groups. Conclusion: Spatiotemporal variations in breast cancer mortality affected racial groups at varying levels. There was neither evidence of hot-spot clusters nor persistent spatiotemporal trends of excess mortality into the present decade. Non-Hispanic Whites in the Gulf Coast and Hispanics in West Texas carried the highest burden of mortality, as evidenced by spatial concentration and temporal persistence. 2004-02-26T00:00:00Z Detecting spatiotemporal clusters of accidental poisoning mortality among Texas counties, U.S., 1980 – 2001 Nkhoma, Ella T Hsu, Chiehwen Ed Hunt, Victoria I Harris, Ann Marie http://hdl.handle.net/1903/7471 2007-12-01T05:40:13Z 2004-10-27T00:00:00Z Title: Detecting spatiotemporal clusters of accidental poisoning mortality among Texas counties, U.S., 1980 – 2001 Authors: Nkhoma, Ella T; Hsu, Chiehwen Ed; Hunt, Victoria I; Harris, Ann Marie Abstract: Background: Accidental poisoning is one of the leading causes of injury in the United States, second only to motor vehicle accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the rates of accidental poisoning mortality have been increasing in the past fourteen years nationally. In Texas, mortality rates from accidental poisoning have mirrored national trends, increasing linearly from 1981 to 2001. The purpose of this study was to determine if there are spatiotemporal clusters of accidental poisoning mortality among Texas counties, and if so, whether there are variations in clustering and risk according to gender and race/ethnicity. The Spatial Scan Statistic in combination with GIS software was used to identify potential clusters between 1980 and 2001 among Texas counties, and Poisson regression was used to evaluate risk differences. Results: Several significant (p < 0.05) accidental poisoning mortality clusters were identified in different regions of Texas. The geographic and temporal persistence of clusters was found to vary by racial group, gender, and race/gender combinations, and most of the clusters persisted into the present decade. Poisson regression revealed significant differences in risk according to race and gender. The Black population was found to be at greatest risk of accidental poisoning mortality relative to other race/ethnic groups (Relative Risk (RR) = 1.25, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 1.24 – 1.27), and the male population was found to be at elevated risk (RR = 2.47, 95% CI = 2.45 – 2.50) when the female population was used as a reference. Conclusion: The findings of the present study provide evidence for the existence of accidental poisoning mortality clusters in Texas, demonstrate the persistence of these clusters into the present decade, and show the spatiotemporal variations in risk and clustering of accidental poisoning deaths by gender and race/ethnicity. By quantifying disparities in accidental poisoning mortality by place, time and person, this study demonstrates the utility of the spatial scan statistic combined with GIS and regression methods in identifying priority areas for public health planning and resource allocation. 2004-10-27T00:00:00Z Hispanic physicians' tobacco intervention practices: a cross-sectional survey study Soto Mas, Francisco G Papenfuss, Richard L Jacobson, Holly E Hsu, Chiehwen Ed Urrutia-Rojas, Ximena Kane, William M http://hdl.handle.net/1903/7470 2007-12-01T05:40:12Z 2005-11-14T00:00:00Z Title: Hispanic physicians' tobacco intervention practices: a cross-sectional survey study Authors: Soto Mas, Francisco G; Papenfuss, Richard L; Jacobson, Holly E; Hsu, Chiehwen Ed; Urrutia-Rojas, Ximena; Kane, William M Abstract: Background: U.S. Hispanic physicians constitute a considerable professional collective, and they may be most suited to attend to the health education needs of the growing U.S. Hispanic population. These educational needs include tobacco use prevention and smoking cessation. However, there is a lack of information on Hispanic physicians' tobacco intervention practices, their level of awareness and use of cessation protocols, and the type of programs that would best address their tobacco training needs. The purpose of this study was to assess the tobacco intervention practices and training needs of Hispanic physicians. Methods: Data was collected through a validated survey instrument among a cross-sectional sample of self-reported Hispanic physicians. Data analyses included frequencies, descriptive statistics, and factorial analyses of variance. Results: The response rate was 55.5%. The majority of respondents (73.3%) were middle-age males. Less than half of respondents routinely performed the most basic intervention: asking patients about smoking status (44.4%) and advising smoking patients to quit (42.2%). Twenty-five percent assisted smoking patients by talking to them about the health risks of smoking, providing education materials or referring them to cessation programs. Only 4.4% routinely arranged followup visits or phone calls for smoking patients. The majority of respondents (64.4%) indicated that they prescribe cessation treatments to less than 20% of smoking patients. A few (4.4%) routinely used behavioral change techniques or programs. A minority (15.6%) indicated that they routinely ask their patients about exposure to tobacco smoke, and 6.7% assisted patients exposed to secondhand smoke in understanding the health risks associated with environmental tobacco smoke (ETS). The most frequently encountered barriers preventing respondents from intervening with patients who smoke included: time, lack of training, lack of receptivity by patients, and lack of reimbursement by third party payers. There was no significant main effect of type of physician, nor was there an interaction effect (gender by type of physician), on tobacco-related practices. Conclusion: The results indicate that Hispanic physicians, similarly to U.S. physicians in general, do not meet the level of intervention recommended by health care agencies. The results presented will assist in the development of tobacco training initiatives for Hispanic physicians. 2005-11-14T00:00:00Z


text:
Next, you'll be asked to connect with Twitter. Rest assured, we will never send a tweet from your account
without your permission.
We will send you an email with an invite soon.
If this is your first chat, thanks for joining us! Feel free to ask any questions you have, we are a helpful bunch ;) #blogchat
RT @heidicohen: @MackCollier @KDHungerford Agree--To boost your comments you must add readers a RELEVANT question at the end of the post. #Blogchat
RT @saratweetshere: @KDHungerford @i_jsc You even see that Facebook asks "how are you feeling?" in the status field. Questions generate conversation. #BlogChat
RT @lathurm: @MackCollier I always try to end my posts with a question, or a provoking call-to-action to try and initiate debate. #blogchat
See what's Trending Now for @MackCollier
Follow @MackCollier on Twitter


text:
Seattle Sounders FC
The LA Galaxy will be playing Seattle Sounders FC in Monday night Soccer action at CenturyLink Field early next week.
Ahead of the match, check out this video that repurposed the MLS ad for the game to the music from Monday Night Football, the video had everything except for some of MNF's colliding and exploding helmets that were so emblematic of their coverage over the past 25 years.
CARSON, Calif. – Don't count on LA Galaxy center back Omar Gonzalez making a move in the summer transfer window. At least that was the message from the defender on Monday ahead of Wednesday's match against Manchester United.
The defender will be looking to make his return on Wednesday from a right ankle injury that he suffered during his participation with the U.S. National Team at the 2014 FIFA World Cup. While other USMNT players have dealt with post-World Cup transfer speculation, there has been little chatter surrounding Gonzalez and on Monday, the defender said that while Europe is a dream of his, he's committed to LA.
"I still want to ply my trade in Europe, but right now I'm committed to the Galaxy," said Gonzalez who signed a new Designated Player contract a year ago. "That's something that my agent handles, but right now I'm looking to get back to full fitness and I'm looking to get a result against United and go to Seattle and have a tough game."
Although the Galaxy currently boast three Designated Players, the unsettled club situation of Manchester United forward Javier Hernandez has led to some speculation that he may be bound for a move to MLS. However, Galaxy head coach Bruce Arena refused to entertain any speculation about a move for the El Tri star.
"You don't talk about other players that are under contract with other clubs," said Arena. "We don't talk about that stuff publicly."
CARSON, Calif. – Omar Gonzalez has his sights set on returning to the field for the LA Galaxy, but don't count on him participating in Saturday's clash with Sporting Kansas City.
The Galaxy center back participated in training on Thursday for the first time since returning from World Cup duty with the U.S. National Team where he endured a right ankle injury during the USMNT's round of 16 defeat to Belgium.
"The ankle is moving along well," Gonzalez told reporters. "I practiced today for the first time and it feels good to be back on the field with the team."
Galaxy head coach Bruce Arena echoed Gonzalez's optimism stating that the defender is "moving along" in his recovery, but is "unlikely" to play a role in Saturday's match in Kansas City.
Although Arena did not reveal a timetable on Gonzalez's return, the defender himself admitted that he is hoping to earn minutes in LA's match against Manchester United next week before making a potential full-fledged return against Seattle Sounders FC on July 28.
"I think that [Seattle] is the target game. It'll be a crucial game for us. It'll our first game at their place and we need points," he said. "The United game is definitely a good game to get some minutes so that I can get back out there and get ready for Seattle."
Soccer has caught the attention of America over the past month and now MLS kicks back into full swing with a slate of games this weekend.
MLSsoccer.com gets you excited for the action with this hype video.
The LA Galaxy learned their fate in the 101st edition of the U.S. Open Cup as U.S. Soccer announced the dates and times for the upcoming fourth round of the tournament.
The Galaxy are already slated to play the winner of the matchup between Oklahoma City Energy FC and Arizona United, but LA learned that if OKC are victorious they will host their fourth round match on June 11 at 7:30 p.m. PT at StubHub Center. Should Arizona defeat the first year USL PRO side, the Galaxy will travel to Peoria Sports Complex on June 18 with the match taking place at 7:30 p.m. PT.
Meanwhile, LA Galaxy II also learned that if they can defeat USASA club PSA Elite then they will host Seattle Sounders FC on June 18 at the StubHub Center Track and Field Stadium. Los Dos take on PSA Elite next Wednesday in Carson.
Thursday Notes: Real Salt Lake getting healthy ahead of LA Galaxy clash, New York City FC unveil logo
The LA Galaxy can expect to face a close to full-strength Real Salt Lake when the two teams kick off on Saturday.
In a conversation with reporters in Utah, RSL head coach Jeff Cassar stated that starters Javier Morales and Nick Rimando are are all improving health-wise ahead of their home opener against the Galaxy.
However, RSL still have a few question marks as starting center back Chris Schuler is still a question mark who Cassar says is "getting healthier every day" while fellow defender Aaron Maund is also unlikely to play. If Schuler and Maund are unable to play then Salt Lake may resort to using youngster Chris Schuler alongside Nat Borchers in central defense.
Below is additional news from around MLS:
*The Professional Referee Organization reached a collective bargining agreement with the Pro Soccer Referee's Assocation on Thursday, which will have the league's normal officials returning to action this week.
*Seattle Sounders FC announced that they will be ending their business partnership with the Seattle Seahawks, who they have shared operations with since 2007. Despite making the move, Seattle will still play at CenturyLink Field.
*The Colorado Rapids waived long-time goalkeeper Matt Pickens on Thursday. Pickens backstopped the Rapids to their lone MLS Cup triumph in 2010.
*New York City FC unveiled their new logo ahead of their inaugural 2015 season at the adidas headquarters in the New York neighborhood of Soho. The fan-chosen logo is inspired by a New York City subway token.
It's official. As voted on by the fans, the New York City FC badge. #5boros1city pic.twitter.com/DlhJjMN8e4
— New York City FC (@NYCFC) March 21, 2014
PHILADELPHIA -- The 2014 MLS SuperDraft will be taking place on Thursday in Philadelphia and we'll be covering it on CoveritLive below.
The LA Galaxy hold just one pick on day one of the draft with the 23rd overall selection in the second round.
Check it out below.
CARSON, Calif. – Any chance for LA Galaxy to acquire Seattle Sounders FC forward Eddie Johnson is a "long shot" according to Club President Chris Klein.
A report in the Washington Post on Saturday stated that the Galaxy were among three teams (D.C. United and Chivas USA being the others) interested in Johnson, who scored nine goals and two assists during a tumultuous 2013 season for Seattle. The rumor comes amid statements from LA head coach and general manager Bruce Arena and Klein himself, that the Galaxy are interested in acquiring a target forward ahead of the 2014 season.
During a town hall forum with Landon Donovan during the club's "Meet Your Seat" event on Sunday, Klein responded to the rumors.
"The rumors are out that we're interested in him… it's an odd thing, but he will not be back in Seattle, we know that for sure. Eddie's a player that has done great things, he's scored a lot of goals and he's part of the national team," Klein said. "I don't want to say that we're not interested in Eddie, but I think that it will be a longshot for him to be in a Galaxy uniform come 2014. However, we're always looking for players who can add to what [our team does]. We'll always be in the market."
Klein also noted that the Galaxy will have Marcelo Sarvas and Juninho returning for 2014 stating that the club feels "good about what they have" in central midfield which includes Baggio Husidic who was signed last month.
Thoughts on Klein's statements on the Eddie Johnson rumors? Happy Sarvas is likely returning?
Share your thoughts below.


text:
When there is no possibility of a positive outcome the loss of life is then in vain and their blood in on the Commander and Chief!!!
What natural resources do they have to stabilize their nation other than oil and what can we do to help them to be self-supporting in putting their people to work instead of having a great population of drug addicts which is what we hear being reported by our troops when they come upon the local people and tribesmen!
The Blood of American Soldiers
Posted by Judson Phillips on March 16, 2012 at 9:31am in Tea Party Nation Forum
Today we are finding out that in the last six weeks, seven Americans have been killed in Afghanistan by Afghan troops. These are the men who are supposed to be our allies. They are becoming as deadly for American soldiers as the Taliban.
What are we doing in Afghanistan?
What are we doing in the sandbox as a lot of the military personnel over there like to call it?
We are losing.
We are losing by design.
You cannot win a war when the Commander in Chief not only does not want to win; he does everything in his power to keep our guys from winning. Our troops know this.
Michael Yon is an amazing writer and photographer. He is also a former soldier with Special Forces. He understands the military and has written about the situation in Afghanistan.
After the mass murder last week in Afghanistan, he wrote it was not only predictable that something like this would happen, he had predicted it. On February 24, Yon wrote: "As the prevalence of insider attacks rises, and we lose more troops to Afghan troops going berserk and murdering our people, it's likely just a matter of time before a U.S. troop or troops turn the table and intentionally slaughter Afghan forces.
"That could lead to a meltdown. We are at risk of losing control of more than some people might imagine. There is only so much that U.S. forces will put up with before fringe U.S. combat troops start taking matters into their own hands. Believe me."
Why are we in Afghanistan?
The simple fact is we are there because of a bad idea, namely the Bush administration's idea of nation building and now we are there because we have a President who wants to see America lose the war. He just does not want to be blamed for that loss.
American troops in Afghanistan are tied up by unrealistic rules of engagement that make them little more than targets. They know they are not there to win the war. They are just marking time until Obama can pull them out.
They know they are not allowed to identify the enemy or take effective action against them. They know they have to allow armed Afghans to work with them and the soldiers are reduced to praying that the next crazed Muslim seeking the 72 virgin express to paradise isn't working next to him.
Our soldiers know that not only is our President making it impossible for America to win in Afghanistan, we have a so-called ally in Afghan President Hamid Karzai who hates America, and all but cheers for the Taliban.
Why should another drop of American blood be spilled there?
Screw Afghanistan.
We went into Afghanistan to stop the terrorists from using it as a base. The terrorists have gone elsewhere. It is time to follow the terrorists.
Let's get our soldiers the hell out of there.
But as we leave, let's take everything we brought with us and if we can't take it with us, let's blow it up. If these savages want to live in the 7th century, so be it. Let's blow up every road, building, dam, power line and airstrip that has built in that open sewer of Southwest Asia.
And as we leave, let's give Karzai a message. In a few months, Obama is going to be replaced with a real American. Here's a box of SPF 20,000 sunscreen because if you invite the terrorists back in, next time, we aren't sending soldiers and we aren't going to worry about collateral damage. Next time, there will be a radioactive glass spot where the terrorist camp was and where your palace was.


text:
Probabilistic Approaches in Investment Decision Making and their Implementation
AbstractThe success of investment projects depends largely on the quality of integration of risks and uncertainty in the process of preparation of these projects, their evaluation and decisions on acceptance or rejection. This article first characterizes the shortcomings of traditional onescenario approach for evaluating projects within investment decision making. The main focus is on probabilistic tools, mainly on scenarios and Monte Carlo simulation. The article characterizes principles of the tools, their common features and differences, examples of usage in the investment decision making. Also covered are strengths and weaknesses of the tools, and application of Monte Carlo simulation in risk analysis of investment projects is illustrated on practical example. In conclusion, the article discusses barriers of implementation of scenarios and Monte Carlo simulation and proposes a set of recommendations increasing the success of integration of these tools into the investment decision making.
Download InfoIf you experience problems downloading a file, check if you have the proper application to view it first. In case of further problems read the IDEAS help page. Note that these files are not on the IDEAS site. Please be patient as the files may be large.
As the access to this document is restricted, you may want to look for a different version under "Related research" (further below) or search for a different version of it.
Bibliographic InfoArticle provided by University of Economics, Prague in its journal Ekonomika a Management.
Volume (Year): 2010 (2010)
Issue (Month): 1 ()
Contact details of provider:
Postal: nam. W. Churchilla 4, 130 67 Praha 3
Phone: (02) 24 09 51 11
Fax: (02) 24 22 06 57
Web page: http://www.vse.cz/
More information through EDIRC
Order Information:
Postal: Redakce Ekonomika a management, Vysoká škola ekonomická v Praze, nám. W. Churchilla 4, 130 67 Praha 3
Web: http://www.vse.cz/eam/
Related researchKeywords: analýza rizika; risk analysis; Investiční projekty; Riziko; Scénáře; Simulace Monte Carlo; Investment projects; Risk; Scenarios;
Find related papers by JEL classification:
- G30 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - General
ReferencesReferences listed on IDEAS
Please report citation or reference errors to , or , if you are the registered author of the cited work, log in to your RePEc Author Service profile, click on "citations" and make appropriate adjustments.:
- S. Illeris & G. Akehurst, 2001. "Introduction," The Service Industries Journal, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 21(1), pages 1-4, January.
ListsThis item is not listed on Wikipedia, on a reading list or among the top items on IDEAS.
StatisticsAccess and download statistics
CorrectionsWhen requesting a correction, please mention this item's handle: RePEc:prg:jnleam:v:2010:y:2010:i:1:id:85. See general information about how to correct material in RePEc.
For technical questions regarding this item, or to correct its authors, title, abstract, bibliographic or download information, contact: (Vaclav Subrta).
If you have authored this item and are not yet registered with RePEc, we encourage you to do it here. This allows to link your profile to this item. It also allows you to accept potential citations to this item that we are uncertain about.
If references are entirely missing, you can add them using this form.
If the full references list an item that is present in RePEc, but the system did not link to it, you can help with this form.
If you know of missing items citing this one, you can help us creating those links by adding the relevant references in the same way as above, for each refering item. If you are a registered author of this item, you may also want to check the "citations" tab in your profile, as there may be some citations waiting for confirmation.
Please note that corrections may take a couple of weeks to filter through the various RePEc services.


text:
FORT MYERS, Fla. - The future of City of Palms Park is in question again, as are plans to bring the Washington Nationals to Fort Myers for Spring Training.
WINK News obtained a letter from Fort Myers City Manager William Mitchell to Rockford Development Group. In it, Mitchell said over the past few months, Rockford, Lee County and Fort Myers had been in discussions over the renovations of City of Palms. The improvements were supposed to be enticement for the Washington Nationals to take over the field for Spring Training, which the Red Sox vacated to move to JetBlue Park.
In his letter, Mitchell said he asked Rockford Development Group to suggest scenarios for financing the renovations and the response was that the city should foot the entire bill.
Mitchell said that would leave the city $53-56 million dollars in debt over the project, which the city "does not have financial capability to absorb."
Mitchell went on to say, for that reason, he could not recommend the proposal to the city council.
Senior Reporter Mike Walcher will have updates on this story starting on WINK News Live at 4.


text:
Since 1913 this Hanover Street venue formally known as Cranes Music Hall, Cranes Theatre and The Neptune Theatre has provided live entertainment to the city for 100 years. After a £1.2 million refurbishment and rebrand as The Epstein Theatre (In memory of Liverpool's most successful music entrepreneur and Beatles Manager, Brian Epstein.) we are proud to announce our exciting diverse Summer 2014 line-up, check out our What's on page, updated weekly!
*NEW Box Office Opening Times* Mon-Thurs 2pm – 6pm / Fri – Sat – 12pm – 6pm
View our new season brochure by clicking here…
To get the latest news on The Epstein Theatre and Brian's Bar, follow us on Twitter @EpsteinTheatre and on facebook.com/EpsteinTheatre
Tickets can be purchased 24hrs a day online by visiting our online booking area.
Telephone bookings can be made on 0844 888 4411 * Mon-Fri 8.30am – 9pm, Sat & Sun 9am-9pm and Bank Holidays from 10am – 6pm
In person at the Box Office from Monday–Thursday 2pm-6pm Friday-Saturday 12-6pm. On show nights box office will open 1 hour before show time. Box office is located in the Foyer.
If you require any information on Group Booking for parties of 20 or more please contact us on 0151 709 4044 or firstname.lastname@example.com
*Telephone and Online Bookings are subject to booking fee. No booking fees for cash sales at the box office.


text:
First United Methodist Church of Oak Lawn is an energetic, friendly gathering of followers of
Jesus Christ.
You are always invited to visit with us on Sunday mornings at 10:30 am (10:00 am during the summer) for worship that glorifies the loving God who made us all. Our worship services tend to be mostly traditional, but we're not afraid to try new things.
We believe that God has called us to share our lives with one another -- our burdens and our joys -- in Christian community. We love to enjoy fellowship with one another, but there's nothing that brings this congregation togther like a need to be met, a challenge to be overcome, or a big job to be accomplished.
Whatever your age, faith background, or family situation, you will find many opportunities here to serve and be served, to grow and be shaped, to be comforted and encouraged.
Come Join Our Family!


text:
This is a family favorite! Tried it when I was pregnant and trying to fit in a lot of greens for the iron. I use cider vinegar (don't have/can't find pepper vinegar) and local, natural bacon (not pumped full of water like commercial brands - it's more meaty and smoky). Have also subbed other greens as needed though they require more tweaking since they can be more bitter.
Black-Eyed Peas and Greens
Photo: Johnny Autry; Styling: Leigh Ann Ross
More From Cooking Light
Recipe Time
Hands On:
15 Minutes
Total: 1 Hour
Nutritional Information
Amount per serving
- Calories: 282
- Fat: 6.3g
- Saturated fat: 1.8g
- Monounsaturated fat: 2.4g
- Polyunsaturated fat: 0.7g
- Protein: 15.7g
- Carbohydrate: 43.2g
- Fiber: 11.3g
- Cholesterol: 8mg
- Iron: 3.9mg
- Sodium: 593mg
- Calcium: 213mg
- 2 slices smoked bacon
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cups fat-free, lower-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 (1-pound) bag frozen black-eyed peas, thawed
- 1 (12-ounce) bunch fresh turnip greens, trimmed and coarsely chopped
- 2 tablespoons pepper vinegar
- 1. Cook bacon in a Dutch oven over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon from pan using a slotted spoon, reserving drippings in pan. Crumble bacon.
- 2. Add onion to drippings in pan; sauté 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in broth and the next 5 ingredients (through greens); bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer for 55 minutes or until peas are tender, stirring occasionally and skimming as necessary. Stir in vinegar. Ladle about 1 1/3 cups pea mixture into each of 4 bowls; top evenly with crumbled bacon.
My Notes
Only you will be able to view, print, and edit this note.Add Note
Black-Eyed Peas and Greens Recipe at a Glance
- COURSE: Main Dishes
- CONVENIENCE: Family
- MAIN INGREDIENT: Vegetables
- DIETARY CONSIDERATION: Low Cholesterol
- OCCASION: New Year's
- PUBLICATION: Cooking Light
More Recipes Like This
Spiced Chicken with Black-Eyed Peas and RiceCooking Light
Black-Eyed Pea StewCooking Light
Cajun Black-Eyed Peas and GreensOxmoor House
Find out what we've got cooking...
Get our Free Weekly Specials Newsletter filled with our favorite recipes, seasonal menus, and special features.
We Respect Your Privacy. Privacy Policy


text:
UFC Fight Night 34: Saffiedine vs Lim goes down tomorrow in Singapore. The card will be aired exclusively on UFC Fight Pass, and the prelims will kick off at 6:30 AM. This morning, while you were likely sleeping, the UFC Fight Night 34 weigh-ins occurred. All of the fighters on the card made weight and the fights are now official.
In the main event of the evening, former StrikeForce Welterweight champion, Tarec Saffiedine, makes his long awaited UFC debut. He will be taking on the Korean knockout artist, Hyun Gyu Lim, who is 2-0 in the UFC thus far. In the co-main event of the evening, Japanese MMA veteran, Tatsuya Kawajiri, makes his anticipated UFC debut against fellow newcomer, Sean Soriano.
Here are the GIF's of the co-main and main event staredowns from the weigh-ins (Courtesy of Zombie Prophet):
Here are the weigh-in results:
MAIN CARD (UFC Fight Pass, 9 a.m. ET)
- Tarec Saffiedine (170) vs. Hyun Gyu Lim (171)
- Tatsuya Kawajiri (145) vs. Sean Soriano (145)
- Luiz Dutra (171) vs. Kiichi Kunimoto (171)
- Kyung Ho Kang (136) vs. Shunichi Shimizu (135)
PRELIMINARY CARD (UFC Fight Pass, 6:30 a.m. ET)
- Will Chope (146) vs. Max Holloway (146)
- Katsunori Kikuno (156) vs. Quinn Mulhern (155)
- David Galera (136) vs. Royston Wee (134)
- Tae Hyun Bang (156) vs. Mairbek Taisumov (155)
- Dustin Kimura (135) vs. Jon Delos Reyes (135)
- Russell Doane (135) vs. Leandro Issa (136)
- Tarec Saffiedine and Hyun Gyu Lim KO victories (Videos)
- UFC to hold 'special' press conference
- Tarec Saffiedine Video Blog
- Mairbek Taisumov Video Blog
- 5 reasons to watch UFC Fight Night 34
- UFC Fight Night 34 to be first UFC Fight Pass event
- Joe Martinez and Brian Stann replace Bruce Buffer and Kenny Florian at UFC Fight Night 34
Tags: Hyun Gyu Lim Max Holloway Sean Soriano Tarec Saffiedine Tatsuya Kawajiri UFC Fight Night 34 Will Chope


text:
Finest modern contemporary & traditional furniture accents and decor including; lamps, mirrors art, original art, vases, clocks, pillows, rugs and more. . .
Offering luxurious rugs, carpet, wood, & tile.
Custom Window Treatments
Custom made window treatments, valances, fabric shower curtains, swags, jabots, cornices, pinch pleat draperies, bedding and decorative pillows
Color wheel consultant providing your indoor and outdoor paint at 10% discount.
Design Consultant with purchasing power to complete all your decorating needs.
Pulling it all together:
From room measurements I will create furniture layouts for flow and comfort.
Together, we will then choose fabrics and furniture that resonate with your sense of comfort and style.
Once the colors are decided on, I will use my vast resources to find the perfect furniture pieces to support your family needs.
From sofas, chairs, ottomans, sectionals, to dining room sets and bedroom suites.
I service the following Florida areas: Altamonte Springs, Maitland, Casselberry, Apopka, Longwood, Mount Dora, Leesberg, Orlando, and surronding areas.
E-mail me today for your in home consultation!


text:
Cullowhee, NC (SportsNetwork.com) - Trey Sumler scored a game-high 21 points as the Western Carolina Catamounts collected a 74-62 win over the Elon Phoenix in a Southern Conference matchup at the Ramsey Center.
Sumler connected on 8-of-12 from the floor and added six assists for Western Carolina (9-8, 1-1 SoCon). James Sinclair and Tom Tankelewicz each added 12 points.
Austin Hamilton tallied 19 points and Sebastian Koch tacked on 16 points and six rebounds for Elon (7-8, 0-1). Lucas Troutman contributed 15 points and nine rebounds but also had eight turnovers.
The Catamounts only shot at a 37.5 percent clip in the first half, but they held the Phoenix to just eight field goals and led 32-30 at intermission.
Western Carolina improved to 48.5 percent shooting and had 11 more field goal attempts than Elon in the second frame, en route to the 12-point victory.
The Catamounts forced 23 turnovers, which they traded in for 28 points.
© 2012 WTVQ-TV, LLC | Site Map | Terms of Use | Privacy Statement | FCC Compliance | Employment | Advertise on ABC36 | Contact Us
WTVQ.com supports children's privacy rights. All persons under the age of 13 MUST have parental permission to use this website and direct parental supervision is strongly recommended.


text:
News from WTOP
News from the AP
Mike Causey
Shows & Panels
Shows & Panels
Shows & Panels
Shows & Panels
- The 2014 Big Picture on Cyber Security
- AFCEA Answers
- Ask the CIO
- Building the Hybrid Cloud
- CDWG/NetApp
- Connected Government: How to Build and Procure Network Services for the Future
- Continuing Diagnostics and Mitigation: Discussion of Progress and Next Steps
- Federal Executive Forum
- Federal Tech Talk
- The Future of Government Data Centers
- The Future of IT: How CIOs Can Enable the Service-Oriented Enterprise
- Government Perspectives on Mobility and the Cloud
- The Intersection: Where Technology Meets Transformation
- Maximizing ROI Through Data Center Consolidation
- Mitigating Insider Threats in Virtual & Cloud Environments
- Modern Mission Critical Series
- Moving to the Cloud. What's the best approach for me
- Navigating Tough Choices in Government Cloud Computing
- The New Generation of Database
- Reimagining the Next Generation of Government
- Satellite Communications: Acquiring SATCOM in Tight Times
- Targeting Advanced Threats: Proven Methods from Detection through Remediation
- Transformative Technology: Desktop Virtualization in Government
- The Truth About IT Opex and Software Defined Networking
- Value of Health IT
- Air Traffic Management Transformation Report
- Cloud First Report
- General Dynamics IT Enterprise Center
- Gov Cloud Minute
- Government in Technology Series
- Homeland Security Cybersecurity Market Report
- National Cybersecurity Awareness Month
- Technology Insights
- The Cyber Security Report
- The Next Generation Cyber Security Experts
Shows & Panels
Search Result
Search Tags: Tony Jimenez
Industry Chatter: MicroTech's Tony Jimenez
Jimenez joined Francis Rose to discuss how government business has changed in the past year and what areas he expands to shrink and expand in the coming years.
Tags: MicroTech , Industry Chatter
Thursday - 09/22/2011, 05:28pm EDTListen
New SBA rules have a big impact
Will the proposed changes help small business participation in federal contracting? We ask Microtech's Tony Jimenez.
Tags: Federal Drive , contracting , budget , SBA , MicroTech ,
Monday - 04/11/2011, 09:31am EDTListen


text:
Eli Epstein
- 2012 BCS Bowl Game Schedule, Bowl Lineup For All 35 Games Announced
December 03 2012 12:35 PM
The complete 2012 college football bowl game schedule.
- Fugitive Anti-Virus King John McAfee Not Captured [REPORT]
December 03 2012 9:39 AM
McAfee's own blog reported his capture, but authorities in Belize say it's false.
- The First 'Girls' Season 2 Trailer Has Arrived
November 30 2012 4:01 PM
Lena Dunham's hit TV show 'Girls' is returning in 2003. Here's the trailer.
- David Axelrod To Shave Trademark Mustache Live On 'Morning Joe'
November 30 2012 1:57 PM
Axelrod, Obama's top advisor, will shave his 40-year-old mustache for charity on Joe Scarborough's "Morning Joe."
- Missouri Powerball Winners Mark And Cindy Hill Might Use Winnings To Adopt Another Child
November 30 2012 1:40 PM
Missouri Powerball winners Mark and Cindy will spend their money wisely, the couple says
- David Stern Vows To Punish Gregg Popovich For Benching The Spurs' Stars
November 30 2012 10:24 AM
Gregg Popovich decided to rest Duncan, Ginobili and Parker, and David Stern was none too happy
- Honey Badger Enters NFL Draft
November 29 2012 3:51 PM
Tyrann Mathieu, suspended from LSU, will enter the NFL Draft.
- Romney Advisor Stevens Brags About Wealthier Votes
November 29 2012 2:32 PM
In an op-ed, Stevens bragged that Mitt Romney successfully courted middle class voters and upheld conservative principles.
- Hostess Seeks Court Approval For Executive Bonuses During Shutdown
November 29 2012 1:44 PM
Hostess is asking the court to give its managers $1.8 million dollars in bonuses on top of their regular salaries.
- New York Fast-Food Workers Strike For Higher Wages
November 29 2012 11:53 AM
Workers at New York fast food chains, especially McDonald's, began a one-day strike on Thursday, calling for higher wages and more benefits.
- Lindsay Lohan Arrested Outside Of New York Nightclub
November 29 2012 9:41 AM
Lohan was arrested for allegedly punching a woman at Avenue, a nightclub in Manhattan.
- Solo Husband Arrested Twice In Nov.
November 28 2012 4:25 PM
Stevens was arrested for violating his probation from a 2010 marijuana arrest.
- Two Driving Citations for Suh
November 28 2012 1:36 PM
Detroit defensive lineman Ndamukong Suh was cited for driving without due caution, one of many driving citations he's received recently.
- Novak Djokovic Gets Massaged By Brazilian Models [VIDEO]
November 28 2012 1:11 PM
Djokovic played an exhibition match in Rio and got some extra attention from models near his bench.
- 7-Time Powerball Winner Richard Lustig And Other Victors Offer Lottery Advice
November 28 2012 12:56 PM
Lustig says to avoid quick picks, and past winners relish their old lives.
- Jamaal Charles Asks Peyton Manning For His Autograph [VIDEO]
November 28 2012 10:20 AM
After the Chiefs' loss on Sunday, star running back Jamaal Charles approached Broncos QB Peyton Manning after the game and asked him for his autograph.
- Harrison Barnes' Dunk And The Best NBA Slams This Season
November 26 2012 4:22 PM
Was Harrison Barnes' monster slam this year's best?
- Tom Jackson Lays Into Jay Cutler, But Why? [VIDEO]
November 26 2012 1:49 PM
Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler keeps winning, and the media keeps calling him out for unrelated incidents.
- Fireman Ed Flees Jets Games, Team In Disarray
November 26 2012 12:57 PM
Fireman Ed writes that he's done going to Jets game. The fans, he says, have made him feel unwanted.
- Will Obama Create A Framework To Regulate Drone Strikes?
November 26 2012 10:33 AM
Preparing for a potential transition, President Obama and his administration have begun discussing how to control the nation's increased reliance on unmanned drone attacks.


text:
Do You Use Twitter?
Jane Poll poll, social media, Twitter[poll id="171"] Maili (@McVane) had a great comment yesterday regarding the promotional benefits for authors on Twitter. I love Twitter for all the reasons I don't love blogs. You get a real sense a person's individuality and personality because of… more
Electronic Business Cardsmore
The Love Triangle
Jane Features/ Poll Love-Triangle, poll, trope[poll id="168"] I have a hard time with love triangles. If done right, some poor nice guy or girl is totally getting the shaft at the end. If done wrong, some initially poor nice guy or girl is demonized by… more
Is Stripping a Form of Female Empowermentmore
Do you cry easily?more
Author Self Promotion
Jane Poll Author Promotion, poll[poll id="164"] I'm working on an article of author online promotional dos/donts. This issue came to my attention by a reader who participates on the Amazon Discussion boards. The reader has been noticing an increase in author participation on the… more
The must have response of a romance hero and bodice ripping
Jane Poll Beyond Heaving Bosoms, heroes
To honor the release of the International Consortium of Heroes' book (also known as Beyond Heaving Bosoms: the Smart Bitches Guide to Romance), we bring you this poll made up by Jaili. [poll id="163"]
How does Edward know Bella is his soul mate?
Jane Features/ Poll poll, Stephenie-Meyer, Twilight Saga
I was looking at my referral links last night and I saw a google search result that landed at Dear Author. The search term was "How does Edward know Bella is his soul mate?" That's a very good question and… more
Amazon Buying Habits
Jane Features/ Poll Amazon, buying habits[poll id="161"] In light of Amazon's recent deranking of categories of books effectively removing those books from search engines, bestseller lists, and recommended lists, I wondered how difficult it would be for people to move to a new vendor like… more
Publisher Imprint Poll
Jane Poll book business, brand[poll id="159"] Some of the comments to the giveaway for Berkley and ACE/ROC made me wonder how loyal we are to certain imprints. I remember when I first started reading, I would always look for the little kangeroo because Pocket… more
eBook Bundle Poll
Jane Poll bundles, Ebooks, Promotion[poll id="158"] Diesel eBooks contacted me for a quote regarding the promotion of their romance ebook bundles. I was happy to provide one because I love the idea of bundles. Recently Nora Roberts first three books were offered in a print bundle. How… more


text:
whatever. I ate a scorpion. Food chain baby.
Banana, walnut, cranberry spinach salad and a soup made from a lot of herbs and vegetables that I don't feel like listing.I'm just trying to eat better because one day I'll be 50.
Idk who this person is but they just made my day.
Thank you Internet.
I love when you're trying to live healthy and you have that one dick friend who's offended by it somehow.
All I eat anymore.
Can't wait for my garden to grow.
This is so good because I follow Cher and she's amazing.
Simply one of the most amazing comics I've ever seen.
#i've never even watched this and this is the least okay post of my life
This post made me cry
If you've never seen the Golden Girls, you are missing out.
Bright Eyes, Lua (2004)
Dumb ass Madison reblogging this years after I tried to make her listen to Bright Eyes.
shoutout to those gamers that tried to be a bad person in an rpg but can't because you're too nice of a person
So am I.
i follow back(:
Waiting for the day when people will realize that feminism is not about hating all men.
ugh, me too.
Either Tumblr is on its game today or I am tripping too hard.


text:
Yep. This is my idol and I love him :')
Oh hey baby ;)
stillformodesty said: Mind chatting on skype? because i am having problems with everything. :\
I don't have skype because my mum won't let me have a webcam…or can you do just text chat on that thing?
I love this bit in NSN!!
(Source: svckafucc, via 5sosclemmings)
Alan is just the best!
These chocolate bars are gorgeous!
It's true they do always make the best stories unfortunately </3
I would actually totally do this!!
This is totally me when my laptop battery is about to run out! :P


text:
Written by:
Gently sloping emerald hills,
Old, gray fences brightened by daffodils,
Majestic trees ready to burst into bloom,
Strangers smiling and waving at me.
That's my Kentucky.
Gleaming horses peacefully grazing
Behind white fences,
Old, leaning barns speaking of tobbacco and history,
Spring peepers voicing joy by the pond,
Young groundhogs nibbling on new growth,
That's my Kentucky.
Forsythia blooming against an old log cabin,
Surrounded by ancient maples in red spring splendor,
And the weathered schoolhouse nearby,
boardered by a split rail fence covered in ivy.
That's my Kentucky.
The quietly rolling Ohio river carries coal
away from these hills in barges,
While a bald eagle turns wide circles above,
Soaring on air curents invisible to me.
That's my Kentucky.
Along the creek watercress and forget-me-nots are flourishing,
A blue heron stands statue-still on the glittering water's egdge.
The ancient mill is nestled between the wooded hills,
where the sparkling creek works the creaky wheel.
That's my Kentucky
Softly swaying cedar trees line roads like tin soldiers,
Decked in fresh, spring green coats,
And underneath velvety violets and glorious bright dandelions
celebrate their life with happy faces.
That's my Kentucky.


text:
Filing to serve: 68 hopefuls add their names to municipal elections listThe filing period is closed, and the names are in. Now, all that is left is for residents across Wayne County to decide is whom they want to see leading their governments in the next couple of years. More than...
Please log in to see full story.
By Renee Carey
Published in Editorials on July 23, 2007 11:46 AM


text:
Emotional response to a government official asking for the licensing of cyclists in Australia after another year of relentlessly increasing cyclist fatalities.
Once you go in, you don't come out
Emotional response to a government official asking for the licensing of cyclists in Australia after another year of relentlessly increasing cyclist fatalities.
With all the shit going on in the pro's there is at least one dude who just keeps rolling. Fabian. Super fast, super cool.
I highly recommend pouring a glass of red, then go here, press play, sit back and enjoy his epic descent.
"This is a very difficult question…….I think there is no answer"
I don't think it works as precisely as Shimano and I don't think it stays in tune as long as Sram. And it breaks more frequently, and it is way more expensive. When I walk into a bike shop I reckon less than 1 in 10 bikes are fitted with Campy. One of my mates who runs a local bike shop said he only knows of 4 people that use it.
Every time it fails on one of my bikes I get angry and tell myself that's it, time to get rid of it and get some Shimano. But I never do. Because when it works it is gorgeous, and when it's used correctly it's sweet and smooth, way more so than anything else.
There's no middle ground with Campy, it is either on song or in pieces on the floor on your garage.
Like any Italian mistress Campy demands your attention and requires finesse. Treat it correctly and it will give back in return. Neglect it and it will bite you in the ass.
And never forget, ALL bikes look better with Campagnolo.
Bike fashion
(via gimmieabike)
Found on Bikerumor. The Dutch could teach the French a few things about urban integration of cycle paths. Often the cycle paths here dump you out before the intersection with priority given to cars, thus discouraging the use of the cycle path in the first place.
(via witsaboutyou)
Crashed last Monday riding cyclocross and fractured my C6 and C7. Neck brace and no riding for 3 months.
On the bright side I'm not a ventilated quadriplegic and I can still masturbate.


text:
1-10 of 18 properties to rent found
£800 pcm
3 bedroom house to rent Churchill Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight.
This three bedroom house is located in a quiet residential area of Cowes close to the enterprise college and is currently undergoing refurbishment throughout. The property briefly comprises of an entrance porch area, sizeable lounge diner with French doors leading to the conservatory and a new fi... More details ›
£550 pcm
1 bedroom flat to rent Cliff Road, Cowes
Enjoy spectacular Solent views from this one bedroom 3rd floor apartment in Cowes. * Panoramic seaviews * Third floor apartment * Gas fired central heating * Moments from Cowes seafront and beac More details ›
£925 pcm
4 bedroom detached house to rent Pallance Road, Cowes, PO31
4 Bedroom House - Unfurnished - Modern - Rear Garden - Parking - White goods - Long Let More details ›
£525 pcm
2 bedroom bungalow to rent Cockleton Lane, Gurnard, Isle of Wight
Available soon is this well presented 2 bedroom chalet bungalow located on the popular Gurnard Pines site. The property will be available furnished and comprises of open plan kitchen/lounge area, 1 double bedroom, 1 single and an all white bathroom suite. The property is well presented throughout... More details ›
£550 pcm
2 bedroom bungalow to rent Gurnard Pines, Cowes, Isle of Wight.
Available now is this two bedroom chalet which is positioned on the Gurnard Pines development located just a 5 minute drive away from the popular sailing town of Cowes. The accommodation briefly comprises of an open plan lounge kitchen area, shower room, one double bedroom, one single bedroom and... More details ›
£525 pcm
2 bedroom bungalow to rent Gurnard Pines, Gurnard, Isle of Wight
Available furnished is this 2 bedroom chalet bungalow located at Gurnrd Pines. The accomodation comprises of a open plan lounge kitchen, bathroom and 2 bedrooms. Benefits include gas central heating and double glazing. The property will be available for a 6 month tenancy with the option to extend... More details ›
£525 pcm
2 bedroom chalet to rent COCKLETON LANE, Cowes, PO31
Lovely 2 Bedroom property in Gurnard Pines. More details ›
Added on 11/09/2014 by Crocker Lettings, Isle of Wight. Call: 01983 646052 Local call rate
£850 pcm
2 bedroom flat to rent Top Flat, QUEENS ROAD, Cowes, PO31
Beautiful 2 double bedroomed flat located on Cowes seafront with stunning views.Available furnished, part furnished or un-furnished. More details ›
Added on 09/09/2014 by Crocker Lettings, Isle of Wight. Call: 01983 646052 Local call rate
£500 pcm
2 bedroom flat to rent Crossfield Avenue, Cowes
Situated in Crossfield Avenue, close to the ammenities of Cowes town centre is this well presented two bedroom apartment. The apartment is on the first floor, enjoying elevated views of the surrou More details ›
£691 pw| £2,995 pcm fees apply
£2,995 pcm
4 bedroom detached house to rent Mornington Road, Cowes
A rare and unmissable opportunity to rent a high quality, four bedroom detached waterfront property in the popular sailing town of Cowes. Four double bedrooms High specification, modern finish More details ›
Thank you.
Your information has been sent to 0 out of 6 agents who have property to rent in the area you specified.


text:
Breakfast today: Lemon cereal ice cream with yogurt and fridge dried blueberries.
tiny twisted tomb
I think I need some flowers and leaves.
Some says meterialism is the only form of distraction from true bliss. However, sometimes, I find joy in little ordinary things.
It's gonna be another hot day🌞wish I am by the sea, in a cosy little hut, with my favourite books, iced tea and juice. It's only Monday morning. I know.
Facebook overdose. Sewing some buttons on this knit top calms me. I'm gonna wear the buttons on back.
I stay indoor too much.
Customised my moleskine diary, mt masking tape for marking. Still not getting used to one-page-a-day. It's way too spacious compare to monthly planner. It makes me feeling stressed for if I'm being lazy, it'd be SO obvious.
Hang this cute polka dots cloth with some safety pins. No sewing is required.
Let's take a walk.
at on the road


text:
User Rating:
104 ratings
Your Rating:
Popular Searches
On marrying Tom: "When 'Top Gun' came out my sisters were like, 'Oh, my God, 'Top Gun'! Tom Cruise!' And I very confidently said, 'I'm going to marry him one day.' It wasn't like, How do I get Tom Cruise? It was just: I think I'm going to marry him. Why not? He'll like me. I'm ... more


text:
The Best Red Carpet Beauty Looks at the Oscars
These actress' hairstyles and makeup blow us away every time they grace the red carpet.
By Kayleigh Donahue Hodes
Back Next
Getty Images
Viola Davis
Viola's makeup takes home our award for favorite look of the night! She took a risk with emerald green eye makeup, but keeping the color to just around her lashes added just the right amount of playful color without looking clownish.


text:
Downgraded: Prospects for carrying on liquids in the European Union
While the European Union's European Commission is aiming to allow you to carry on liquids again — as we reported back in October — airports and airlines are actually fighting the EC and lobbying to keep the nearly five-year liquid restrictions in carry-on luggage:
In recent months, trade groups representing hundreds of airports and dozens of airlines have quietly stepped up the pressure on the European Commission to abandon its plan for a gradual easing of restrictions. From April 29, the change would allow passengers passing through Europe from a third country to carry liquids, aerosols and gels purchased either at an airport duty-free shop or on board a non-European airline. They are calling instead for the ban to remain in place until 2013, when Brussels has vowed to eliminate all cabin restrictions on such goods.
"The existing technology is not fit for the purpose," said Olivier Jankovec, the director general of the Airports Council International Europe, a lobbying group based in Brussels that represents more than 400 airports. "We risk paralyzing the big hubs."
But the intense lobbying has so far failed to sway the commission, which committed two years ago to simplifying the often onerous security screening process. It remains a source of frustration for passengers who are forced to jettison drink containers, toothpaste, skin creams and even jars of marmalade before boarding planes.
Aides to Siim Kallas, the European transportation commissioner, said he remained unconvinced by the industry's arguments and was satisfied by the performance standards set by European regulators for liquid-explosive detectors. Moreover, they said, the numbers of transfer passengers likely to be affected by this first phase of the plan should be manageable.
Upgraded: AA miles on Facebook
It's a spin of the wheel, essentially, but you could earn a random number of American AAdvantage miles — between 100 and 1,000,000 — if you "like" the AAdvantage program on their Facebook page. I think these "like" campaigns are kind of lame, but hey, if you're a Facebooker, have some free miles. Full details here.
Upgraded: Atlanta Braves parking for Delta SkyMiles Medallion members
I guess this is a thinking-outside-the-box perk for upper-tier Delta elite frequent fliers: Medallion-level members get access to a special parking area within the Green Lot for Atlanta Braves games at Turner Field. It's not free parking — normal rates apply. I've never been to a game at Turner Field, but the Green Lot looks like it's as convenient as it's going to get.
Upgraded: Taiwanese analysis of American aviation
For those who appreciate the kitschy animations of global news by the Taiwanese animators at Next Media Animation, please enjoy this cartoon analysis of American aviation's obsession with fees. Note the not-so-subtle digs at the age of U.S. flight attendants (ouch) and the ragging on US Airways in particular, going so far as to use their logo. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the video celebrates the triumphant Asian airline industry, singling out Cathay Pacific. Who knows, maybe Cathay paid for this episode. Watch it below.
Thinking of traveling for the holidays this November or December? The good folks at FareCompare have mapped out the dates when the major airlines in the US have added "peak travel day surcharges."
This phenomenon of peak surcharges began last year. It's getting worse, not better, as more airlines adopt these fees that aren't technically part of the base fare.
While there's more to airfares than just these surcharges, avoiding (or minimizing) these fees can make a holiday trip more affordable.
Here's a snippet for the Thanksgiving dates:
Note that Thanksgiving Day, and days prior to the marked dates on the chart, are surcharge-free. Interestingly, AirTran, which added surcharges over the summer, is refraining now.
Click on the image to see the full post and December date info.
For a limited time, InterContinental Hotels Group properties will reimburse some guests' checked baggage fees. So a hotel chain — including InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Hotel Indigo, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, Staybridge Suites, and Candlewood Suites — is indirectly subsidizing airlines. Interesting.
Beginning Aug. 16, when travellers book two consecutive weekend nights at any one of the 4,500 IHG hotels worldwide for stays between Sept. 1 and Dec. 30, 2010, their checked bag is free. Travellers can participate each and every weekend they stay with an IHG hotel during the "Check It Free" promotion period, when they pay for their hotel stay using their Visa® Card.
Download a rebate form via www.ihg.com/freebag and submit it with copies of your hotel receipt and baggage fee receipt for the same trip postmarked by Jan. 31, 2011.
Rebates are in the form of a prepaid Visa card, which carries monthly fees if you don't exhaust it within six months.
The rebate has quite a few moving parts: 1) weekends only, 2) 2 night minimum, 3) Q4 only, 4) pay with Visa. Break any one of those rules, and say bye-bye to the rebate. Plus: 5) expiring-balance on the rebate itself.
Given those restrictions, this is potentially useful for weekend getaways. But for weekend getaways, won't a carry-on suffice?…
So this ends up being great PR for IHG, but not necessarily something that will benefit the masses. That said, if you can map this out in advance, and you can make this work: Go for it!
We can only hope this is a trend:
Harrah's Entertainment has eliminated resort fees at all of its Las Vegas properties.
Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino and PH Towers Westgate were the last in Harrah's Las Vegas portfolio to do away with the extra daily charges.
The resorts join Caesars Palace, Harrah's Las Vegas, Paris Las Vegas, Rio All-Suites Hotel & Casino, Flamingo Las Vegas, Bally's Las Vegas and Imperial Palace as official "no resort fee zones," the company said.
Good riddance. Resort fees are perhaps the ultimate way a travel company can screw you. Mandating fees for standard hotel amenities and providing no way of opting out — I've never understood how that isn't legally required to be part of the base rate. (At least airline fees are something you can typically avoid if you adapt your behavior, such as choosing whether or not to check a bag… but I digress.)
Fees make it hard to compare apples to apples, since side-by-side comparisons of rate on most websites won't include resort fees. That's anti-consumer.
The fees also took money out of the pockets of travel agents, both large and small. The resort fee, after all, was not commissionable.
The elimination of the fees probably means an increase in base rates. After all, Harrah's collected $12 million in resort fees in Las Vegas last month alone. Expect to see those fees reflected in base rates soon. But that's fine. It's honest. It's fair. And it should be supported.
I'm a firm believer in rewarding good behavior, and conversely, punishing bad behavior. If you're a consumer, avoid resort fees when you can (except when you Priceline a room and can't choose the specific hotel). If you're an agent, don't promote properties that stiff you and your clients. And if you're a hotelier, remember that you're in the hospitality business, and resort fees are anything but hospitable.
Chicago O'Hare is expanding. And if you're renting a car at O'Hare in August and beyond, you'll be paying for it.
[Chicago's city council] today approved without dissent a measure backed by Mayor Richard Daley to charge [at least $8 more per day] on rentals at O'Hare to cover the cost of a consolidated rental-car center needed to accommodate two new runways that are to be built as part of the O'Hare Modernization Plan.
City Aviation Commissioner Rosemarie Andolino said earlier this week that the fee will likely be around $8 each day on cars rented at O'Hare, but said she could seek to raise it considerably if the cost of the rental facility ends up being higher than anticipated.
The new fee, which should be in place by August, would go on top of an existing $2.75 flat fee and an 8 percent tax on O'Hare rentals.
How might this look? Here's a sample rental today, before the fee kicks in. You'll see the current $2.75 flat fee and the 8% tax in there, but obviously no $8 fee (yet):
This is a rental with National, on a base rate of $42.90, fyi.
Adding $8 to that menu would make the total fees $20.32 on a $42.90 base rental, or 47.3% in taxes and mandatory fees.
But hold on, there's more… This comment from the city's aviation commissioner, which partially justifies the fee: "The per-day rental fee at LAX airport in Los Angeles is $18."
Why, if LAX charges $18 on top of their other fees, then Chicago charging $8 would be a veritable bargain! Except that LAX doesn't charge $18 a day.
Here, see for yourself. Same car rental company, same car class, same base rate of $42.90 a day, but at LAX:
I don't see an $18 charge in there. I see a bunch of charges, yes, including a $10 charge. And these fees are steep — 49.1% of the base rate, to be precise. But if Chicago is going to point to LAX as an example of high fees, they should try to be more honest about it.
In the U.S., airlines don't typically charge a fee for using a credit or debit card to purchase a ticket. (Allegiant is an exception, by charging a $14.99 "convenience fee" for online bookings with credit card payment. Other U.S. airlines have tried, but failed thusfar.)
In Europe, a credit card fee is more of a norm. But Ryanair, which has been charging a fee for years, was just slapped down by the German courts for charging the fee:
Germany's federal court of justice found yesterday that Ryanair placed consumers at a "disproportionate disadvantage" by offering no way to pay for flights without incurring a fee.
"By charging the fee is shifting in a one-sided manner on to customers the costs of fulfilling its own legal obligations … without bringing any service in return," said the court, a practice at odds with German law.
The case against Ryanair was brought by Germany's leading consumer organisation. It complained about the fee, which ranges from €1.50 to €4 per flight and passenger.
By not accepting cash payments, it argued, Ryanair offered customers no opportunity to pay for flights without paying extra.
I can understand the motivation behind this fee: Merchants accepting credit cards give up a piece of each transaction to the credit card processing bank. (The percentage varies according to card brand and total transaction size.) But there are rules to which merchants are required to adhere. I couldn't find a European merchant agreement. But in the US, for example: "Visa merchants are not permitted to establish minimum transaction amounts, even on sale items. They also are not permitted to charge a surcharge fee when you use your Visa card."
It will be interesting to see if other European countries see similar cases. Credit card fees aren't limited to Germany, after all.