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Bad News: Can Patients Handle It?
It can be really difficult for us to hear bad news, especially when the bad news is about something serious like our health.
In some of our recent research about the conversation between doctors and patients with chronic conditions, we asked patients to share how their doctor communicated the diagnosis to them, and how they as the patient felt hearing the news.
We found that, even though patients are often upset when finding out they have a condition like Multiple Sclerosis, there are things that the doctor does or doesn't do that can positively or negatively impact the patient moving forward.
First, we found that patients want and need the whole truth about their condition. Doctors may sometimes think they're helping by watering down the information or not talking too much about details of the condition, when in reality the patients need this information to gain clarity, familiarity, and to successfully move forward to starting treatment.
We also found that, while it's very important for the doctors to give the patients a detailed and complete diagnosis, doctors should also make sure to leave enough time during the conversation to talk about treatment options. If the patient hears just that they've been diagnosed with Leukemia but doesn't hear what treatment options are available, they could be left without much confidence or hope in being able to treat their condition.
Lastly, we found that the first few sentences of the conversation communicating bad news, like a diagnosis, matter a lot. In several instances patients described how the doctor didn't communicate the beginning of the diagnosis well, saying things like "you have an aggressive cancer" or "I'm so sorry". In these cases, the patient tended to not hear and really process the rest of the conversation. Things like poor word choice or the wrong demeanor can impact patients negatively in a way that lasts far beyond the diagnosis.
No patient wants to hear bad news. But when bad news needs to be communicated, it helps the patient immensely when they hear the whole truth, all about their treatment options, and are met with words and demeanor that give them as much confidence and hope as possible.(Read full post)
Getting on a better path with type 2 diabetes
According to a report just released by the Center for Health Law and Policy Innovation of Harvard Law School, people with type 2 diabetes could lose up to 15 years of life because of the disease, and by 2025, diabetes could cost the state over $17 billion a year in medical expenses and lost productivity if the epidemic continues on its current path. Changing this is not simple, but there are many initiatives underway focused on making sure this does not become a reality.
This was the topic of the PATHS (Providing Access to Healthy Solutions) conference I attended on May 30. The good news is that there are many people who care about this issue and want to do something about it. The hard part, at times, is knowing where to start and how to actually make a difference.
While at the conference, I had the pleasure of sharing our work on women and diabetes along with Brandy Barnes of DiabetesSisters, as you see in the image below. I've been collaborating with Brandy for the last 5 years, and she has been able to take insights from our study to help inform the programs she offers through her organization.
I also had the opportunity to share some information about MicroMass's Time2Focus diabetes app with some other conference attendees. As I wrote on April 22, 2014 in a previous blog post, this app is designed to help build patient confidence and problem solving skills so patients can make educated and empowered decisions on a day-to-day basis related to their diabetes. Recruitment for our clinical trial is underway, and we are eager to begin helping patients, one-by-one, make changes in their lives so they can live healthier, more productive lives.(Read full post)
Type 2 Diabetes: Helping Patients Overcome Real-World Obstacles
Managing diabetes is complicated. You need a base understanding of what the disease is doing inside your body – how it behaves, what keeps it in check, and what it can do to you. Without this, you wouldn't even know where to begin (or why you should want to manage it). You also have to be motivated. You have to believe management is within your control. Otherwise, what's the point in even trying? You have to realize there are things you can do – however small – that can impact how it behaves. Lastly, you have to know what to do. You need to learn the skills to be able to manage it. You need to believe you can actually do it.
You might be asking yourself how people with diabetes get along with the disease. How do they manage the day-to-day demands placed on them? How do they make decisions that will help them be as healthy as possible? And the answer is that some people do manage the disease every day, taking it into consideration as they make choices for themselves. But others may deliberately ignore it, or may not even realize it's something that requires their attention.
We know that close to 95% of diabetes management falls on the shoulders of patients, and we wanted to figure out a way to reach them where they are. Daily challenges come up that are difficult to manage. By building patients' skills, we can help them take the actions necessary to most optimally manage their disease.
Patients are constantly on the go, so providing them with something that would not only accomplish the above disease management goals but also fit into a busy lifestyle was critical. Creating an app was the logical choice. When we looked at apps currently available, what we found were a lot of trackers and programs focused purely on information dissemination. What was missing was the behavioral component to help patients actually make and sustain the desired changes. Trackers are great for keeping logs of eating habits, exercise, and even blood glucose. But not much more.
And so the Time2Focus diabetes mobile app was born. We're in the midst of putting the final touches on what will be a groundbreaking phone app to help patients with type 2 diabetes more successfully navigate the ins and outs of the disease, make educated and empowered decisions on a daily basis, and be able to work around real-world obstacles that stand in their way.
The 12-week program is grounded in the behavioral concept of problem solving. In simple terms, this is all about helping patients learn how to apply their own understanding of their diabetes to handle new situations that arise. It requires that patients not only understand their disease and learn key skills, but also are able to apply what they've learned to new diabetes-related situations that come up (which happen every day) so they can work around these new obstacles and stay on track.
We're also using gamification principles to help keep patients motivated and engaged. We've designed challenges that not only test knowledge, but ask patients to rely on their new disease understanding and experiences to navigate obstacles. Patients are challenged to apply new concepts and make choices within the app that mimic real-world situations.
As the Time2Focus program development nears completion, we're gearing up for a clinical trial to test its efficacy among over 100 people living with type 2 diabetes. Patients will spend 12 weeks participating in the program building their problem solving skills and ultimately making improvements in their diabetes health. In addition to behavioral outcome measures, we'll also be measuring change in HbA1c.
Stay tuned for more details as the app continues to progress.(Read full post)
Would you want this kind of control?
Yesterday, the NYT featured a story on the genetic testing of embryos to help ensure a deadly disease-causing gene would not get passed on to a couple's unborn children. Having recently had a child myself, I can understand this family's desire to protect their children from something that would likely cause suffering and premature death. The genetic testing process resulted in the birth of three children who are free of the gene. The comments run the gamut – some people praise the family for what they've done, but others question it. Some comments condemn the mother (who carries the gene) for being irresponsible for bringing children into the world knowing that there's a good possibility she'll die before they grow up.
The family indicated that they'll share what the disease is all about with the kids and how it may affect their mother so that everyone is better prepared for what may happen in the future.
I found this interesting when looking at it from a behavioral perspective. There is clearly a lot of debate around whether or not it was ethical to hand-select embryos. I was even more interested in the thought process surrounding this woman's choice to know whether or not she was a carrier of a gene that would likely cause early death. At the age of 26, she learned her fate.
How do you live knowing you might have just 5, 10, or maybe 20 healthy years to go? But on the flip side, how do you live as a 26 year old with the uncertainty of whether or not you only have a handful of good years left? How do you plan for the future?
As a behaviorist, this presents an interesting scenario. Knowing she was a carrier greatly increased this woman's perceptions of control over so many aspects of her life. She felt like she was better able to make choices for herself and her family, feels like she'll be better able to prepare her children to deal with what may come, and clearly values the need to set expectations for those around her.
Would you want to know whether you carried a gene like this? Would the control you gain from knowing this be empowering or paralyzing?(Read full post)
3D Glasses (not what you think)
I am always looking for a better pair of glasses, and with my prescription I am limited with my selections. However, when I ran across the idea of 3D printed frames, I thought that maybe someday I can have the frames I want and the prescription I need without compromise. Protos Eyewear is a startup (currently looking for funding) that has recognized that everyone's face is unique and is offering glasses that are tailored to the individual – very nice.
It works by sending two photographs of yourself – one head-on and one side profile – that help the Protos team to tweak each design to fit your face. Their advanced software lets you select and alter the design of each pair of glasses to fit your unique features and accentuate your facial structure. Right now they offer only black, but more colors will be offered as they ramp up.
3D printing is being researched for use in many healthcare applications. In a recent article, Forbes provides three great examples of healthcare applications. One is scaffolding to provide custom joint replacements. Another is in medical device manufacture such as custom hearing aids and dental implants. The third deals with printing functional human tissue for transplants.
Protos' approach is simple and pragmatic and provides a service I see myself using. And another great thing about this on-demand custom process is that it brings manufacturing back to the U.S.
Check out their video below:(Read full post)
A New Reason to Get Your 8 Hours
I don't go to the grocery store that often. At work, we have a group called Expedite Group who will do our shopping for us. This not only saves me time, but probably money, too, because I'm not able to just pick up extras that look "interesting" or "tasty." I also don't have to worry about falling victim to purchasing extra snacks and junk food as a result of hunger. I have friends who tell me this happens to them all the time, and apparently they're not alone. An ABC News report investigated this exact topic and found that hungry shoppers not only purchase higher calorie and less diet-friendly foods, but as a result they eat worse all week. So one day of hungry shopping dooms you for seven days.
OK. So if you must physically go to the store, the solution is to just make sure to have a good snack or meal before shopping. If you do this, then you're good. You won't mess up your new diet or overspend. Sadly, no.
According to a new study in the journal Obesity, even if you go to the grocery store on a full stomach, shopping after a night of poor sleep can also have deleterious effects on your food choices. Not only are people hungrier when they get less sleep, but it's long been known that decision-making, in all aspects of life, is affected by sleep deprivation.
In this fast-paced society we live in, five to six hours of sleep is sadly normally for many. So many of us are walking around sleep-deprived. Groups like Expedite Group are wonderful solutions for companies looking to improve work-life balance for employees. They take the burden of grocery shopping, returns, and other errands off the plates of employees to help them focus on work and family life. But this new obesity research shows that helping to improve work-life balance shouldn't be their only hook for prospective clients. While hiring someone else to do your food shopping is certainly not the only way to stay on track with food choices and health management, it may be a start.(Read full post)
35.7% of U.S. Adults?
More than one-third of US adults are obese, and this number is only predicted to increase over time. And with obesity, there's often an increase in the number of preventable health problems, like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke, to name just a few. According to a recent article, online weight loss programs have proven results to help combat this public health problem in the United States.
It comes as no surprise to me that the online, interactive programs that offer chat rooms and individualized capabilities are showing more success with weight loss than pamphlets and other hard copy materials often provided to patients by doctors and counselors. While this study does indicate that in-person weight loss programs are also highly effective, the fact of the matter is that patients may not have the time or money to invest in these kinds of in-person programs. Additionally, healthcare professionals often have limited time with their patients, making it difficult to have a real impact on weight loss in the short time they spend together.
Online weight loss programs pay attention to the drivers and barriers of behavior change – support, motivation, and goal setting, among others – that are specific to weight loss. They allow patients to personalize their experience to ensure it meets the individual goals each person has for him or herself, and help patients overcome the inevitable road blocks along the way. And, online programs are available day and night for patients to access and interact with, providing a constant, long term resource.
As a behaviorist at MicroMass, understanding what patients need to motivate positive change is near and dear to my heart. The science is out there proving that static materials are just not cutting it when it comes to sustainable behavior change. It takes more than a pamphlet; but rather, a true understanding of what is holding patients back, what will drive them to action, and a personalized plan to create the desired change.(Read full post)
Healthcare Gamification
Healthcare Gamification
Gamification is the infusion of game design techniques, game mechanics, and/or game style into anything, and it has proven popular in the medical world as well. While gamification can help liven up health-related tasks and make them more enjoyable, it can also provide health benefits – take the Pain Squad for young people with cancer, T-Haler for asthma sufferers, the depression-tackling SPARX game and Limbs Alive for hemiplegia patients as good examples.
From my perspective, these solutions are best as part of a well-considered behavior change program for patients.
Pain Squad
The Pain Squad app was developed by the Canada-based Hospital for Sick Children, also known as SickKids. Pain Squad gamifies the process of tracking the physical and emotional wellbeing of young people with cancer. Pain Squad uses the narrative of a police force hunting down pain. Patients are inducted as recruits in Pain Squad – a special police force dedicated to hunting down pain. Their pain reporting mission is to fill out a daily survey – which asks questions relating to whether they felt pain that day, how intense it was and its location. Patients move up through the ranks of the force when they keep their records updated. Stars from Rookie Blue and Flashpoint appear in videos that are unlocked when patients do well and progress the narrative. By gamifying the process, the app gives patients an incentive to keep a daily journal of their pain. The app is still in the testing phase, but SickKids hopes to release it later this year. Watch the following video to see how the app works:
T-Haler, developed by Cambridge Consultants, uses wireless technology to gamify inhaler use and help those with asthma get the optimum dose of medication. Interactive software, linked to a wireless training inhaler, monitors how a patient uses their device and provides real-time feedback via an interactive video 'game'. T-Haler provides visual feedback to the user on their performance and the areas that need improvement. Feedback is highly visual which allows asthma sufferers to see what is wrong with their technique and monitor their progress as they improve. The interface offers visual instructions on how to correctly use the inhaler, such as shaking the device before use. Check out the video and see how it works:
SPARX, which stands for Smart, Positive, Active, Realistic, X-factor thoughts, is a 3D fantasy roleplaying game that teaches young people with mental health issues the skills they need to boost their confidence. SPARX was developed by a team of specialists in treating adolescent depression from the University of Auckand. SPARX leads players through seven realms (each about 30 minutes long) that teach mental behavioral skills for battling depression. For example, in one level, gamers battle their way through a swamp where they're attacked by black, smoldering balls called GNATS (Gloomy Negative Automatic Thoughts). SPARX doesn't require supervision and could help fill treatment gaps, especially in underserved areas. It's also a private way for kids to get help when they may not want to talk to an adult. The SPARX trial results are in the British Medical Journal (20/04/2012). Watch the SPARX trailer:
Limbs Alive
Limbs Alive is a therapy service for hemiplegia patients that uses games to improve motor skills in a fun way. Using Limbs Alive's first game, "Circus Challenge," patients can do much of their physical therapy at home – in conjunction with consultations from experts. This is the first action video game designed specifically to be played at home that provide an expert therapy program. Using wireless controllers, players participate in activities such as lion taming, juggling, plate spinning, high diving, and flying the trapeze. The games are meant to encourage patients to work their way through increasingly difficult levels of movement designed to gradually build up the strength and skills of the patient. Limbs Alive plans to create a whole library of games that help make therapy fun and effective for patients suffering from other conditions such as Cerebral Palsy, Chronic Lung Disease, Type 2 Diabetes and Dementia. Take a look at this video for more background:(Read full post)
What does it truly mean to be patient centric?
Most of my doctors are pretty great. They give me the time I need to get my questions answered, they help allay any fears or concerns that I have, and they are just all around good people. It got me thinking about all of the healthcare reform research that we've been doing the last several months and what it truly means for a provider to be "patient centric." There are so many definitions floating around for this term, but what does it truly mean?
We learned that patients and providers often have different views of what it really means to be patient centric. Patients often determine whether a doctor is patient centric by evaluating their bedside manner while providers see it as a balance between good clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction/customer service, and being able to successfully run their practice. This lack of consensus can be confusing for those who interact regularly with the healthcare system.
In general, patient centricity is a buzzword that's being used a lot these days, and it clearly needs some additional attention. At MicroMass, we understand what needs to happen to create lasting relationships between patients and providers, between providers and managed care, and between the pharmaceutical industry and its clients. Patients, providers, payers, and administrators all have varying needs in this evolving healthcare environment, and our most recent research study has shed additional light on this topic. Using our behavioral science lens, we're focused on the relationships that matter most and how to sustain them.
Bottom line: at MicroMass, patient centricity isn't just a buzzword.(Read full post)
What's all this fuss about the Individual Mandate?
Before the 4th of July holiday, I was getting ready to give a presentation to some of my colleagues here at MicroMass about the basics of healthcare reform, when our office manager turned on the news. I figured that the Supreme Court was going to do what it does best–take its sweet time in making a decision (after all, they had drawn the decision out over an entire month, with political gurus sitting on pins and needles). As the different stations announced conflicting rulings, I scrambled to make adjustments to my PowerPoint. Once the reports all started to agree and I heard the hubbub around the office subside, I finally threw my hands in the air and just wrote a disclaimer at the beginning of my slides:
"UPDATE: The Individual Mandate Stands."
Say What?
In the midst of all the media coverage of the Supreme Court decision, I was a bit overwhelmed with information at first. And I guess you could say the CNN and Fox News reporters were, too. One of the main reasons why CNN and Fox News reported an incorrect ruling was because the mandate was determined to be unconstitutional under the Commerce Clause of the Constitution. The Commerce Clause basically states that Congress has the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations, between states, and with American Indian tribes. However, on the following page of the ruling, the Supreme Court upheld that Congress has the power to impose a tax on those who do not buy insurance and therefore the mandate is constitutional under the Tax Clause of the Constitution.
Now, arguably, saying that something is a tax is in fact different than forcing someone to buy insurance. Practically speaking, however, it has the same effect. All Americans will be required to purchase health insurance or face a tax of up to 2.5% of their income.
What will it mean for the average American now that the law has been ruled constitutional? Let's take a look at what the individual mandate is all about.
Core Components of the Individual Mandate
Under the individual mandate of the Affordable Care Act, all Americans will be required to purchase insurance and insurance companies will no longer be able to deny coverage for people with pre-existing conditions. That's big news for individuals who are living with a chronic illness and were denied coverage before. There won't be caps on their coverage, so they will be able to get the care they need when they need it. What does that mean for those who are relatively healthy? They'll still have to buy insurance, either on their own or through their employer.
The requirement for all Americans, not just the sick folks, to buy insurance is critical, because with more sick people entering the insurance pool, there will have to be more healthy people in the system to offset the costs of care and keep premiums down. The individual mandate is necessary to protect patients with pre-existing conditions, because without it, people could just choose to buy coverage when they get sick, which would mean fewer healthy people in the system to offset costs, leading to skyrocketing premiums.
Now, like any good policy, the Affordable Care Act has plenty of loopholes and caveats. There will be a few groups for which the individual mandate will not result in a tax. These groups include undocumented immigrants, incarcerated individuals, American Indians, and those who have a legitimate religious objection. Many of these groups are covered under different systems and those who cannot afford a plan will have access to government subsidies that will allow them to purchase insurance.
For those who do not have coverage through their employer, state and non-profit-run insurance exchanges will be set up to allow individuals and small businesses to purchase their own plans. Through the exchanges, individuals will have the option to choose from four benefit categories of plans (Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum) and a separate catastrophic plan. New plans through private insurance will be required to comply with one of the four benefit categories.
Almost two weeks after that ruling, there are still questions about the reform that hang in the balance. What we don't know is how that individual mandate will play out. Is the tax penalty high enough? What are the unintended consequences of this ruling? Only time will tell, but for now, one thing is for certain, the Affordable Care Act is here to stay.(Read full post)


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Editorial Style Guidelines: General style rules
academic degrees — Use an apostrophe in bachelor's degree, a master's degree. He received his bachelor's degree from UW-Eau Claire and his master's and doctorate degrees from UW-Madison. No apostrophe in this case: She earned her bachelor of business administration or master of fine arts. Avoid an abbreviation (e.g. Ph.D.) and use instead a phrase such as: John Smith, who has a doctorate in philosophy.
acronyms — Do not write acronym in parentheses after spelling out the name. If it is not obvious the acronym stands for the previously stated item, then the acronym should not be used. (See listing of university-related acronyms and abbreviations.)
administrative office names — Capitalize the names of administrative offices: News Bureau. Do not capitalize the word "office" if after the name unless it is truly a part of the formal name: Financial Aid office or Office of Research and Sponsored Programs.
adviser — Always spell with an "e." Never use "advisor."
alumna/alumnus/alumnae/alumni — alum/alums may be used in informal instances, such as alumni event promotions, social media messaging, etc.
ampersand (&) — Spell out the word "and" unless the ampersand is part of a proper name: art & design, Borders Books & Music.
art exhibits — Surround name of exhibit in quotation marks. Exception: Do not place the following exhibits in quotations marks: Annual Juried Student Art Show and B.F.A. Degree Candidates Senior Show.
Artists Series — not Artist Series.
award names — Capitalize the formal title of an award: Althea Brach Counselor of the Year Post-Secondary Award.
campuswide, nationwide — One word.
Centennial Plan — capitalized.
chair(person) — Use the word "chair" or "chairperson" depending upon person's preference.
class names — Capitalize actual class names and surround by quotation marks: "Evolution of Economic Systems" or "Beginning French."
comma usage — Do not set off Jr., Sr., Inc. and Ltd. with commas: Ivar Lunde Jr. will perform… or The UW-Eau Claire Foundation Inc. will award the $500 scholarship… Commas should be placed inside quotation marks at all times: "UW-Eau Claire is the best school in the country," Davis said.
- Do not use a comma after a question mark or exclamation point as in the following example: "How many students attend the university?" the student asked.
- Do not put the comma before the conjunction in a simple series: The flag is red, white and blue.
- Use the serial comma if a part of the series includes a comma or if an integral element of the series requires a conjunction.
compact disc — Use CD.
composition titles — Use quotation marks around the titles of books, anthologies, songs, movies, plays, operas, television programs, lectures, speeches and works of art. Do not use quotation marks with reference works, e.g., Encyclopedia Britannica, or around names of magazines, newspapers or professional journals. Professional journals and University Bulletin are italicized in the University Bulletin.
course work — two words.
department names — Do not capitalize department names (e.g., communication and journalism department), unless of course it's a proper noun like English department.
disabled, handicapped, impaired — In general do not describe an individual as disabled or handicapped unless it is clearly pertinent to a story. If necessary, use person with a disability, not disabled person. For more information, refer to pages 74-75 in the AP Stylebook or the "Person First Language" brochure, available in the News Bureau.
dorm — Always use residence hall rather than "dorm" or "dormitory."
ellipsis — In general, treat an ellipsis as a three-letter word, constructed with three periods and two spaces, as shown here: ( … )
email addresses — Do not underline or boldface. Also, it's email, not e-mail.
event happenings — State in order of time, day, date: The group will meet at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 7, in the Ojibwa Room, Davies Center. Remember that "Oct. 7" is another way of saying "Thursday" and should be surrounded by commas. Also, do not include the word "on" before the day.
fieldwork, homework — one word.
The Forum — not the Forum.
grade-point average — GPA (for grade-point average) can be used in all references.
headlines — Titles that appear in double quotation marks within the body of the release should be surrounded by single quotation marks in the headline.
home page — Two words.
hometown — Include student's hometown in story if appropriate. Underline the hometown (but not any punctuation before or after the hometown): Jane Adams, Brookfield, received a $10,000 scholarship. Also note states entry for more information. (Hometown information is taken from the CampS system under the category "Hometown News Release" and not from the student's permanent address. Also, always check CampS to verify that information about the student may be released.)
hyphens — Whether to hyphenate a word can be tricky. For the rules, refer to the following entries in the AP Stylebook: prefixes, suffixes, hyphen, co-, extra-, pre-, post-, self-, and semi-. The next place to look is Webster's New World Dictionary. Some commonly used words in UW-Eau Claire news releases and publications include the following: co-author, co-star, co-chair, cocurricular, coed, co-worker, extracurricular, nonprofit, pre-professional, preregister and semifinal.
Internet — Capitalize the word Internet. In later references, the Web or the Net is acceptable.
master plan — not capitalized.
months — Abbreviate Jan., Feb., Aug., Sept., Oct., Nov. and Dec. before a specific date but spell out when cited without a date or when only with a year. There is no comma between a month and a year: March 2000.
minority vs. multicultural — The word multicultural (e.g., multicultural student population) is preferred.
music group or ensemble names — Capitalize the proper names of the groups but do not place in quotes: The Singing Statesmen or Indigo Girls.
music titles — Surround the names of songs and longer works, such as operas, with quotation marks: "Ebbene Signor Figaro" (song) from Gioacchino Rossini's "The Barber of Seville" (opera). Do not use quotation marks with titles that are merely descriptions but do capitalize: Concerto for Two Horns. If, however, the instrumentation is not part of the title but just description, then lowercase the instruments: Concerto for two horns. The words "flat," "major" and "minor" should not be capitalized in a title but the note (letter) preceding the word is: Concerto in A flat minor.
office — Capitalize "office" if part of the formal title — such as Office of Research and Sponsored Programs — but use lowercase "o" if not: Activities and Programs office.
online — one word
phone numbers — Include area code and write in following manner:
plural words — When speaking of more than one, use the following words: alumni (a pair or group that contains at least one male), alumnae (more than one woman), emeriti (a pair or group that contains at least one male), emeritae (more than one female), freshmen (male or female), curricula. See singular words entry.
pop — Soft drink is more appropriate.
resident assistant — May use RA on second reference.
room — Capitalize the word room if followed by a number or preceded by an actual name: Room 143 or Ho-Chunk Room.
scholarship names — Capitalize the formal name of scholarships: Leonard Haas Alumni Scholarship.
senior citizen — Use "senior citizen" sparingly. It is best to indicate an age category: those age 62 and older. Preferred usage is not to use "seniors" as that often indicates a high school or college class level.
singular words — The following words always indicate one person or item: alumnus (male), alumna (female), emeritus (male), emerita (female), freshman (male or female), curriculum. See plural words entry.
states — Never include the state of Wisconsin with a city. With all other cities, except those mentioned under the datelines entry in the AP Stylebook, abbreviate the state name when preceded by a city. See state names entry in the AP Stylebook for abbreviations. Also note that a comma follows the state abbreviation when in the middle of a sentence: He lived in St. Paul, Minn., before moving to Stevens Point.
strategic plan — not capitalized.
theater vs. theatre — Use "theatre" when referring to University Theatre, when referring to the actual music and theatre arts department, or when the proper name is "theatre: Orpheum Theatre. Use "theater" in all other cases.
times — From 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. OR 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Remember to use "noon" and "midnight" instead of "12 p.m." and "12 a.m."
titles — Include "Dr." before name if appropriate but still follow with appropriate title, such as Dr. Jane Do, associate professor of foreign languages. Instructor titles need to be accurate. Check whether the instructor is a professor, associate professor, assistant professor, senior lecturer, lecturer or another title. Note that not all professors hold doctoral degrees. For example, an assistant professor in music is likely to be someone who is not a "Dr."
Exception to the rule: Art, theater and music professors may not want to be identified as "Dr." In this case, we respect the individual's wish. Also, if preferred by the individual, when referring to theater and music faculty in an event capacity, identify as professor of theatre arts or assistant professor of music, for example.
In general, do not capitalize titles — such as professor of psychology — before a person's name. However, the titles of chancellor, vice chancellor, dean and provost should be capitalized only before a name: Chancellor Vicki Lord Larson or Vicki Lord Larson, chancellor of UW-Eau Claire. Never capitalize titles such as special assistant to the chancellor. When in doubt, list title within commas and after person's name.
The following formal titles are capitalized and abbreviated as shown when used before a name: Dr., Gov., Lt. Gov., Rep. and Sen.
toward — Not towards.
under way — Two words in virtually all uses: The project is under way.
University of Wisconsin — To differentiate from UW-Eau Claire, use UW-Madison (or University of Wisconsin-Madison if first UW reference in release). Do not use University of Wisconsin.
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire — Spell out University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in first reference; use UW-Eau Claire after that. Never use "UWEC" or "UW-EC." Be sure to use a hyphen after Wisconsin or UW (not a medium or long dash).
University of Wisconsin-Extension — Use as UW-Extension. Remember to include the hyphen.
University of Wisconsin System — The abbreviated version is UW System. Note there is no hyphen before "System." The president's name is Kevin Reilly.
Washington, D.C. — Include comma between Washington and D.C.
website — not web site or Web site. Also,webcam, webcast and webmaster.
World Wide Web — Do not underline or boldface addresses. Use Web (capitalized) as a short form for World Wide Web and in terms with separate words, such as Web page and Web feed (but also see website entry). Visit the website at www.uwec.edu.
years — When citing an academic year always use the abbreviated form for the second year unless the second year is in a different century: the 2001-02 academic year or the 1999-2000 Artists Series.

subset: commoncrawl


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Windsurfing News
- 18 June 2008 | Windsurfing
With 63 competitors from Europe and the Americas, the second leg of the Formula Windsurfing Grand Prix, held in Sopot Poland from June 4th-7th was regarded by all as "a great success".
The host club - SKZ Hestia located on the beach front town of Sopot on the Baltic Sea - organized a superb regatta with 8 races over 4 days.
Generally, racers found themselves confronted with light winds and a steep chop for close racing held in front of the Sopot Pier.
Steve Allen, AUS-0, from Australia walked away as the winner closely trailed by ARG-3 Gonzalo Costa Hoevel in 2nd and DEN-111 Jesper Vesterstrom in 3rd.
Debuting in its 2nd event this season, womens winner, AUS 911- Allision Shreeve showcased the proposed Formula One Design concept. The new class is being proposed as an alternate to the hybrid RSX class for the 2012 Olympics.
Source: Formula Windsurfing Class
- 17 June 2008 | Windsurfing
Norbert MARIN, ISAF Technical Officer, spent two days at The Neil Pryde factory in China inspecting masts, sails and booms for the RS:X equipment. The inspection then moved on to the Cobra factory in Thailand for five days for the inspection of the RS:X boards, fins and centreboards.
David MEAD, Production Manager Neil Pryde Windsurfing, co-ordinated the project with assistance from Bruce WYLIE and Prayat VIBOONTUN, Manager and Quality Assurance Manager respectively in Cobra's Windsurf Business Unit.
The visit to manufacturers forms part of ISAF's responsibility for technical control and direction of the sailing competition. The equipment is inspected in preparation for the allocation of equipment to the sailors who will compete at this year's Olympic Games.
- 03 June 2008 | Windsurfing
Finnish wave sailor Tuomo Naalisvaara (Starboard, Severne) continues to show defiance in the face of adversity and rip harder than ever, despite hailing from the cold shores of the Baltic Sea, which are known to freeze during the coldest periods of winter.
Tuomo had his chance to showcase his skills to the international audience at his first PWA event in Tiree, Scotland in 2007. Following this event, Tuomo spent the winter hard at work training in Maui, and flies to Pozo this month in preparation for the PWA Gran Canaria event.
Helping him on his crusade are four big companies that believe in Tuomo's goal to reach the top of the sport, and have pledged their full support to make what once appeared unreachable, a reality.
More Articles:


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- Product Information
Product Description
Set the scene for a 50's style soiree with our Back to the 50's rock and roll theme Scene Setter Room Roll. Our plastic room roll is 48" x 40" and is the perfect back drop for your rock and roll theme party. Please order in increments of 1 room roll. Easily hang all of your Decorations with Sticky Tack, Item SUP010 or SUP017
- Questions & Answers
- Reviews
The Hunger Games Party Ideas
The first part of the third installment of The Hunger Games trilogy comes out November 21st. Throw a Mockingjay Premiere Party for your fellow Hunger Games crazed friends, or throw a Hunger Games themed birthday party! Use some of these helpful party tips and ideas.
How to Throw a Stress-Free Friendsgiving Dinner Party
Spend time with friends, giving thanks and eating delicious food, by throwing a dinner party this November. Have a second, more casual, Thanksgiving Dinner without all of the stress and drama of the family! Here are some simple ideas on how to do just that.
Invite Friends Over for a Backyard Bonfire Party this Fall Season!
Fall weather is the perfect bonfire weather, and what better way to spend time with loved ones than outdoors, cuddling up by the fire? Follow these tips on putting together a lovely bonfire party.


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Latest News
Tara Reid Reveals Her Skeletor Body While Running Errands
'Sharknado' Sequel: A Storm Of Laughs
The Sharknado Evacuation map supplied by Syfy network places Lower Manhattan smack in the zone most in peril this sharknado season. … READ MORE
Tara Reid Falls — For A New Man!
Tara Reid has fallen! But instead of on her face, the notorious party girl appears to have gone head over heels for a new man.
RadarOnline.com can reveal that … READ MORE
Jennie Garth: Ian Ziering's 'Train Wreck' Jab 'Hurt' Tori Spelling...
Jennie Garth has taken up for her longtime friend and colleague Tori Spelling, after their Beverly Hills 90210 castmate Ian Ziering summed up the latter's … READ MORE
Kiss & Tell! Tara Reid Dishes On Hooking Up With Tom Brady, Before...
It's safe to say he upgraded.
New England Patriots star quarterback Tom Brady has been married to supermodel Gisele Bündchen for nearly five years, … READ MORE
'Sharknado' Heading To The Big Screen
The Syfy made-for-TV phenom, Sharknado, is heading to a theater near you. The hilarious, super-campy flick is getting a midnight showing August 2 at thea… READ MORE


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September 2014 Meeting Minutes
DATE: Monday, September 22nd, 2014 TIME: 7 pm
PLACE: The Darboy Club
Pesident Rob Vandermoss called the meeting to order @ 7:05 pm.
Clint Smith gave the Secretary's report.
Motion to accept made by Andy Monday seconded by Lowell Bennett . Motion Carried.
VanWychen Collects Super Late Checkered, Bennett Edges Piontek For Season Title!
Last Lap Passes Net Victories for Wenzel in Super Stocks, Van Horn in Sport Trucks and Sonkowsky in Sizzlin 4's
Kaukauna, WI; August 28, 2014 – It was a race … not only for the titles on championship night at Wisconsin International Raceway, but a race between threatening weather, and the efforts of the Fox River Racing Club to complete the program. It was the final night of the year, and the drama was high, especially with a tight point battle in the Super Late Model division.
Lowell Bennett seeking his fourth career weekly track title at Wisconsin International Raceway came into the evening seven points ahead of Brett Piontek, who just last week had collected his first career title after typing with Maxwell Schultz for the 2014 Red, White and Blue State Championships.
August 21st races have rained out.
For the first time during the 2014 racing season events planned for Wisconsin International Raceway's "Thursday Night Thunder" program have fallen to weather.
The Season Championship and Fan Appreciation Night will take place next week August 28th.
43rd Annual Red, White and Blue Title Showcases Super Late Model Co-Champions, as Piontek and Schultz Tie In Title Chase! Piontek Take Blue Race Victory!
Cory Kemkes Nabs Red, White and Blue Late Model Title – Takes Feature Contest!
Kaukauna, WI; August 14, 2014 – It was time to decide some championships at Wisconsin International Raceway! The 43rd Annual Red, White and Blue State Championship series came down to this evening with the program supported by Budweiser / WAPL along with NAPA Auto Parts and Ken's Sports. Highlighting the show was the "Blue Race", a 75 lap Super Late Model feature that decided tonight's title chase.
The top three in points heading into the evening, Ty Majeski, Lowell Bennett and Jeff Van Oudenhoven, all had mechanical issues which dropped them from the championship contention and left the title chase wide open.
The winner of the overall Red, White and Blue championship was not decided until the final lap when Maxwell Schultz put a pass on Kyle Calmes to cross the line in third. In doing so he earned just enough points, temporarily winning the title by a single marker over Piontek who had seemingly finished runner-up to rookie Dalton Zehr.
Rookie Jesse Oudenhoven Scores First Career Super Late Model Win In Non-Stop Contest!
Point Leader Hauser Outguns Defending Champ Wenzel In Special Stan Gracyalny Memorial for Super Stocks!
Kaukauna, WI; August 7, 2014 – Al Huss Auto & Truck along with Valley Gasket presented the inaugural Stan Gracyalny Memorial Night at the races. The headlining event this evening was a special 49 lap Super Stock contest. Gracyalny's career had spanned nearly six decades and he retired from racing after reaching the age of 80 years old and the evening was dedicated to his memory.
It was fitting that the 49 lap Stan Gracyalny Memorial race came down to the current top two in the Street Stock points. After 49 hard fought laps point leader Greg Hauser managed to edge out his nearest rival Dylan Wenzel by a car length to score the win. Aside from the mandatory halfway caution, only two other yellows for minor incidents slowed a clean, hard fought contest.
Special Order of events August 7th
There is a special order of events this evening for the Stan Gracyalny Memorial race at Wisconsin International Raceway. Be sure to consult this schedule to keep track of tonight's race events.
Stan the Man Night Order of Events: (all pre-race events will run as usual)
HEAT RACES (single file restarts for all heats)
½ mile first (swapped order for Stan Night)
Late model heats 8 laps (or 10 depending on car count)
Late Model dash 6 laps
Super Late model heats 8 laps (or 10 depending on car count)
Super Late model dash 6 laps
Van Wychen Fends off Bennett for Super Late Victory at Wisconsin International Raceway!
Fast Qualifier Duchow Nets Late Model Win Over Point Leader Cory Kemkes!
Kaukauna, WI; July 31, 2014 – Weather threatened this evening looking cause the first rain out of the season. Come race time, skies began to clear and the 10th consecutive "Thursday Night Thunder" race program got underway at the scheduled 6:45pm start time. Standard Electric Supply was the sponsor of the show. The event began the final third of the 2014 season.
Lowell Bennett was seeking his third straight win in Super Late Model action, and had came within striking distance of race leader Nate Van Wychen in the final turns of the main event. Van Wychen was able to shut the door on Bennett and gain a well earned victory. While Bennett did not earn gain third straight win, his championship hops got a huge boost as his nearest rival Jeff Van Oudenhoven was unable to start the feature tonight. As result Van Oudenhoven fell back to third place in the standings.
Lowell Bennett Strikes Again! Point Leader Nabs Second Straight Super Late Model Win at Kaukauna!
Alex Stumpf Scores Victory in Non-Stop Late Model Main!
Kaukauna, WI; July 24, 2014 – Kurz Electric was the presenting sponsor for the 10th round of Thursday Night Thunder at Wisconsin International Raceway.
The 2014 racing season could be one of Lowell Bennett's finest at Wisconsin International Raceway. That's saying a lot for a driver whose career has spanned nearly four decades. Tonight's victory was the third of the season, and the second straight win for Bennett who extended his point lead over Jeff Van Oudenhoven. Van Oudenhoven had been collected in an incident with rookie Sawyer Effertz and suffered a DNF.
Bennett Collects White Race Checkers! Kemkes Extends Point Lead With Victory in Late Model action at Kaukauna!
Kaukauna, WI; July 17, 2014 – Ding! Ding! Round Two of the 43rd Annual Red, White and Blue State championship series got underway at Wisconsin International Raceway. The event played out with a crowd approaching 4,000 on hand. Fans witnessed the battle for top honors of the 75 lap Super Late Model main event come down to a final turn battle between current Fox River Racing Club point leader Lowell Bennett and the winner of the Red Race, Ty Majeski. Bennett, who had led the majority of the contest, had just enough speed to repel Majeski's lap ditch effort to steal the win, reaching the stipe with a fender length advantage.
Division point leader Cory Kemkes was able to gain the feature win in the extended 30 lap Late Model main event, padding his point lead as his nearest rival heading into the evening was collected in an accident dropping him from the event.
Schroeder Survives Wild Super Late Model Contest!
Strelka Outruns Kemkes In Late Model Feature Showdown!
Kaukauna, WI; July 10, 2014 – It was wild.. wild.. wild night at Wisconsin International Raceway. To win the Super Late Model feature it was a matter of survival and being in the right place at the right time. For Mark Schroeder, that right place was fourth position, as a final lap incident wiped out the lead trio and gave Schroeder his second victory of the 2014 season.


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"tis the season for a little fall cleaning n'est pas? Here is a quick Swiffer Steamboost #Giveaway to help…
Note: This giveaway is open to Canadians only
Do you know about the Swiffer Steamboost?
The Swiffer BISSELL® SteamBoost™ is a steam mop that deeply penetrates dirt and helps remove messes mops can leave behind. Fill it with water, attach a Steam Pad and plug it in. No other cleaning solutions are needed
On Saturday, September 21 and Sunday, September 22 you can get more than just groceries at your local Real Canadian Superstores. Spread the word to your readers and get them to visit any Real Canadian Superstore to collect a coupon booklet which includes a full mail-in rebate on Swiffer Sweeper and Dusters! The booklet will also have coupons for other Swiffer and Mr. Clean products including $5 off the NEW Swiffer BISSELL SteamBoost, designed to deeply penetrate dirt and remove messes mops can leave behind.
Life is dirty…your house doesn't have to be. Get the kids in on the cleaning action by letting them swiffer (seriously lil' one loves to push our swiffer around – I actually have to STOP him sometimes). Cleaning isn't just a "chore" but it's a life skill which kids needs to learn. Put on some music, get out the cleaning supplies, and get the whole family fall cleaning (it's goes faster with more hands!).
Enter to win your very own NEW Swiffer BISSELL SteamBoost ($50 value).
As seen on Hypersweep.com!


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Driver 'livid' after police blew up his broken down taxi in terror scare near the Gherkin
A black cab driver was today said to be "livid" after police blew up his broken-down taxi following a terror scare in the shadow of the Gherkin.
Bike camera catches moment cyclist kicks fellow rider to the ground into path of coach
This is the shocking moment a cyclist was kicked to the ground into the path of a coach by a fellow biker on a street in London.
Armed police called to passenger revolt at Heathrow as plane is delayed for ten hours
Armed police surrounded a group of angry passengers at Heathrow Airport after they staged a revolt after a flight to New York was delayed by ten hours.
Bad grammar users named and shamed
Related Articles
Published: 30 April 2013
What do Transport for London, Isabel Oakeshott and the 100 academics who signed a letter attacking Michael Gove's reforms have in common? They are all on the shortlist for the inaugural Bad Grammar Awards, hosted at Westbourne Grove's Idler Academy this Thursday.
Other grammatical miscreants include QPR Football Club, the National Literacy Trust and an anonymous tattooist.
Tom Hodgkinson, founder of the Idler, explained that TfL is guilty of "mixing infinitives and gerunds on a safety sign", while Oakeshott, the Sunday Times journalist at the heart of the Vicky Pryce affair, can't spell licence or jeopardise.
The 100 academics are at fault for using the word young in their letter "as an adverb when it is actually an adjective". However, even Hodgkinson admits that grammar champions occasionally err. "Louis Theroux pointed out that I made a grammatical error on the invitation to the awards. I wrote 'X-Factor-style', which he rightly pointed out should have read 'X Factor-style'."
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News in Pictures
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- Driver 'livid' after police blew up his broken down taxi in terror scare near the Gherkin
- Lone protester spends night on Winston Churchill statue surrounded by police in Parliament Square
- Passenger punched for asking man to stop smoking cannabis on Overground train
- Armed police called to passenger revolt at Heathrow as plane is delayed for ten hours
- What has happened to Renee Zellweger? Fans shocked as the actress debuts dramatic new look at awards bash
- 'My bus, my rules': What gay couple claim driver said before kicking them off 'for kissing'
- Cyclist is filmed kicking fellow rider into path of a coach
- City threatens to block £50 million cycle superhighway
- Ed Balls: Mansion tax will cost homeowners £250 a month
- Armed police called to passenger revolt at Heathrow as plane is delayed for ten hours
- Music promoter 'crawled' for help before dying after stabbing 'over £400 debt'
- Blind student left in tears as Tesco staff ban her guide dog
- Romanians: We're EU citizens, give us houses so we can stop sleeping rough at Park Lane
- Mob of 80 youths 'armed with machete and chains' in late night Tube brawl at Belsize Park
- Commuters try to save boy, three, who died after 'cardiac arrest' at London Bridge station
Claudie Pierlot opens fifth London store
Bringing its fresh Parisian style to Marylebone High Street, find out more about the CP Autumn/Winter collection.
WIN tickets to the Midtown Big Ideas Exchange event
Inmidtown in collaboration with The School of Life, designed to inspire and encourage businesses to interact and learn from each other, share business knowledge and discuss important themes relating to work and life.
Win membership to Business Connections
How they made it: The entrepreneurs behind an interior design revolution had a fantastic idea: cut out the middle man
Playing a strong hand
How mobile technology has changed the instant trading game
Made of London Series
Multitasking Andy McRobbie – teacher, musician, promoter and tour guide – is a big fan of this extraordinary city. "I find something new to excite me every day," he says, "which is what makes London so special."
Book tickets for Kooza now!
KOOZA is an electrifying return to the origins of Cirque du Soleil combining two circus traditions - acrobatic performance and the art of clowning.
Winter at its height
Seasons come and go, it's an annual cycle of varying temperatures, traditions and activities. When winter comes to Austria it is distinctly special and all embracing.
Lines ruled
Lines ruled at New York Fashion Week as highlighter stripes took centre stage. Emma McCarthy gets next season's look now.
BFI London Film Festival 2014
Your essential guide to the BFI London Film Festival, which runs from October 8-19 2014
Reader Offers email A fantastic selection of
offers, giveaways and


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Call us today at 1-877-433-9249
Make updates to your business profile 24/7
If you need a broken windo fixed they are the company to call,. Service was great. Will use them for when we remodle and need a shower door too.
DexKnows Mobile profile for Dixie Glass in Altamonte Springs, FL.


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Pitty - Dançando.mp3
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Daniela M. 1 year ago Reply Spam SpamCancel
amuuuuu d +++ *--*
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O mundo acaba hoje
Eu estarei dançando ♫
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se o mundo acabasse hj eu estaria damçando
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nossa eu choro ouvindo pitty!
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Posts tagged drunk
Posts tagged drunk
Who wants to come fuck?
Story of my life.
(Source: idonthaveananswer)
Drunk drunk drunk.
in complete contradiction to my previous post about being dragged down about everyone around me and not getting any "me" time to deal with myself…
here's why i was so hungover i still don't have make up on today.
drinking doesn't count as me time. it counts as social time. therefore, i am still owed me time.
…and drunk as shit at the bar
St pattys day pregame
Poured my tall boy out into my tall boy glass.
Fuck long distance.
One shot for ever (decent) ask. Two for fan mail.
(Update: should be re-titled Andrea's Tumblr drinking game)
I think this is why I haven't ever been single.
I get giggly drunk
And then something happens that sets me off
And I get what my friends have lovingly described as "hood drunk"
And then I hear about it the next morning.
My life makes me happy.


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|About - Magellan RoadMate 2210
|The RoadMate 2210 has a 4.3-inch LCD screen. Notable features include multi-destination routing, an exit guide, reality view, and lane assistance. This unit is preloaded with maps covering the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico.
|About This Brand
Magellan develops and distributes vehicle navigation, crossover GPS, and outdoor handheld navigation products. It currently sells RoadMate and SmartGPS brand lines for automobiles.
|Features & Specs - Magellan RoadMate 2210
|Weight (oz.)
|Bluetooth hands-free calling
|Spoken street names
|More features and specs
|Additional Information (The information below has been supplied by an external source.)
|General Information
|Mitac International Corporation
|Manufacturer Website Address
|Product Line
|Product Model
|Product Name
|RoadMate 2210
|Product Type
|Automobile Portable GPS Navigator
User Reviews - Magellan RoadMate 2210
User Reviews
Already own it? Write a review
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
Reasonably Priced, Mediocre Performance
Easy To Read
Easy To Set Up
Large Screen
Simple Controls
Acquires Satellites Slowly
Difficult Menus
Best Uses
Planning Trips
I use the product for navigating unfamiliar areas. My biggest complaint is the unusually long satellite signal acquire time. It has taken up to 10 minutes on occasion, which I find irritating and unacceptable. Other than that, I like the display format and vocalized navigation.
How long have you owned it:
Three-to-six months
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
(4 of 4 customers found this review helpful)
Buy This!
Easy Menus
Easy To Read
Easy To Set Up
Large Screen
No Annoying
Reliable Performance
Simple Controls
Best Uses
Faster Routes
Finding Specific Address
Planning Trips
Rural Navigation
Urban Navigation
This GPS is ACCURATE! Unlike the Garmin, it does not tell me to turn left on a divided highway; does not take a circuitous route; does not have me exit a highway and then re-enter at the next entrance; does not take me to a completely wrong address.
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.


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Police: Beer, child in suspect's carApril 25,2014Police say a Bennington woman arrested for drunken driving had an open beer bottle in her car's cup holder and her 6-year-old son in the backseat.
Nichole Shepard, 33, will appear in Bennington criminal court May 12 to face charges of drunken driving, second offense, as well as reckless endangerment of a child, according to Vermont State Police.
Trooper Elliott Justinger said he pulled Shepard's vehicle over on Route 7 at the intersection of Route 313E near the border of Sunderland and East Arlington around 8:45 p.m. Wednesday.
The trooper said he "smelled a strong odor of intoxicants" coming from the vehicle and saw an open beer bottle in the cup holder. Shepard was arrested after field sobriety tests, the trooper added.MORE IN This Just InMONTPELIER A succession of state officials asked a legislative committee Friday to maintain or... Full StoryHARTFORD Less than a week before a proposed $3. Full StoryAnother step in the Retreat's plan to satisfy federal regulators. Full Story
- Most Popular
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- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: On this day in 1618, English author, poet, soldier, adventurer Sir Walter Raleigh is beheaded for conspiring to overthrow King James I, but more likely to mollify offenses to Spain. His executioner has to implore him for silence.
- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: On this day in 1492, Italian explorer, admiral of the ocean sea, Christopher Columbus, sailing for the Spanish crown, 'discovers' Cuba; on this day in 1964, U.S. officials deny American involvement in bombing North Vietnam.
- Video: Fire engulfs house on Pine Street
- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: On this day in 1936, Mrs. Wallis Warfield Spencer Simpson, mistress of King Edward VIII, is granted her second divorce, enabling her to marry the king. The government, the Church of England and the London Times have another idea.
- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: V-2 No. 13, launched this day in 1946 from White Sands, New Mexico, takes first photographs of Earth from the edge of the planet's outer atmosphere; 1947: Walt Disney testifies before HUAC, names employees he says are communists.
- TOMORROW'S HEADLINES TODAY: Vermont's brand discussed at Killington, state's attorney candidates Marc Brierre and Rose Kennedy profiled, Curtis reports about Rutland police chief's new job, and four arrested, charged for heroin, crack sales.


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Cardhu 12 Year Old Single Malt Whisky – Review
It's hard to mention Cardhu and not think of the Single Malt/Pure Malt fiasco that pretty much wiped it off the map for a few years. It's sort of the Scotch whisky version of the new Coke debacle of the mid-80's. Actually, come to think of it, the mid-80's were pretty much a debacle in general, other than SST and Repo Man, but that's another story. This story goes that in 2003, Diageo, faced with ever increasing demand for Cardhu (it's really popular stuff in Spain) decided to change its 12 year old from a single malt to a vatted malt or blended single malt, meaning a blend of single malts from more than one distillery. That in and of itself wasn't enough to set off the ensuing shitstorm, it was their decision to call this new Cardhu "Pure Malt" and to barely change the labeling and packaging at all that really fired up the rest of the Scotch world. The industry was very concerned (to put it lightly) that this new, sneaky pure malt would sully the integrity and standard set by single malt Scotch and distilleries that make it. Of course, other vatted malts existed at the time, but it was Diageo's "invention" of a new varietal, Pure Malt, and lack of clarity in the labeling that had people worried. The company did back down and change the packaging, but the damage was done, sales plummeted and by 2006, the Pure Malt was no more, the Single Malt back in the line-up. Partly as a result of the whole dust-up, the Scotch Whisky Association passed a new set of standards in 2009 clarifying just what the different types of whisky were and what they could be called.
So, yeah, marketing blunders are marketing blunders, and while occasionally funny to those of us who find that kind of thing occasionally funny, they can also be small tragedies when they nearly destroy a decent product. Luckily, Cardhu weathered the storm and in the last year has made its welcome return to the US market. This Speyside distillery was officially founded in 1824 by a man named John Cumming, who for years prior was involved in some non-officially founded distilling in the same location. It was built anew in a nearby location in the 1880's with the increased production catching the eye of John Walker and his sons who bought huge amounts of Cardhu for their increasingly popular blended whisky. A few years later, in 1893, Johnnie Walker figured, "what the hell" and bought the distillery outright. Eventually falling under the umbrella of Diageo, Cardhu's malt is still today a fundamental part of the Johnnie Walker line. Part of Diageo's Classic Malts Selection, Cardhu is available in this 12 year old expression, a "Special Cask Reserve" and a smattering of special releases over the years.
The Nose: Ripe, ripe apple, almost a bruised apple sweetness. Underneath that, there's nice mild-mannered honeyed grain, French vanilla and a very slight herbaceous touch – fennel and damp wood. A nice, balanced, smooth nose, but perhaps just a little plain.
The Palate: A toffee and vanilla sweetened entry with fruit notes taking a back seat to more honeyed grain. Gently spicy with some drying oak and just a hint of the slightly peaty smoke to come.
The Finish: Longer than I expected and smokier, too. A bit of fruit and grain linger as well, but it was the really enjoyably swell of smoke that literally put a smile on my face.
Thoughts: In the course of one dram, Cardhu grew on me quite a bit. The nose is a bit undistinguished as is the palate, but after a few sips I realized that I really liked the way this one evolved. From the sweet ripe fruit on the nose, to the spicy grain on the palate, to the nice smoky finish, this is a really well structured malt. Granted, it's complexity and depth won't win many awards among smug whisky geeks, but it would be a great "beginner's Scotch" or even an everyday dram. Around the Bay Area, I see it for around $40 which is a decent value if you're looking for something well-made, on the light side, basic, and very drinkable.
Cardhu 12 Year Old Single Malt Whisky, Speyside
Score: 83
4 Responses to "Cardhu 12 Year Old Single Malt Whisky – Review"
I read this review twice. The first time – just to read it. The second time, I had to play Double Nickels to get the true feel – great review & nice mention of one of the best labels to come out of the 80's.
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Peter Williams. Peter Williams said: Malt Whisky Cardhu 12 Year Old Single Malt Whisky – Review « THE CASKS: Cardhu 12 Year Old Single Malt Whisky – … http://bit.ly/hWHymK [...]
[...] 12 Year Old Single Malt thecasks.com This entry was posted in all. Bookmark the permalink. ← Amazing Websites 2011 Avatar 2010 [...]
It is truly a shame Cardhu was forced down this route. I
have one 1 ltr bottle left of Pure Malt and I can tell you it is
way better than the Single MAlt now available. It is simply not the


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7 Ways Oil and Gas Companies Are Trying to Buy Positive Public Sentiment for Fracking
Sometimes reality is stranger than science fiction. That's the case with hydraulic fracturing, or fracking -- a dangerous technology that's much like setting off a giant pipe bomb four or five miles underground. Millions of gallons of water, chemicals and sand are injected deep into shale rock formations at high pressures to break open the rock and release the gas.
The promoters say its safe. Or that's what the oil and gas industry would have you think, anyway. But behind the scenes, the industry is fighting tooth and nail to keep fracking unregulated, and its claims of safety, economic prosperity and energy security unquestioned. Their high-dollar campaign to put a happy face on this risky practice is designed to challenge the growing movement to ban fracking that's heating up across the country: people are saying no to this risky technology that, if pursued, will negatively impact our health, water, and economy.
Here are some of the ways the oil and gas industry is attempting to "buy" public sentiment and a positive policy environment for its newest darling -- shale gas fracking:
1. Legal Bribery in Washington
The industry spent over $145 million lobbying Washington in 2010, making it one of the top five industries spending big money to buy influence -- and it seems to be working: In January 2011, bipartisan congressional members of the Natural Gas Caucus opposed proposed U.S. Department of Interior rules to disclose fracking chemicals used on public lands; this caucus' 83 members received a combined $1,742,572 in campaign contributions from the oil and gas industry between 2009 and 2010, according to a Propublica investigation.
2. Slick PR and Ad Campaigns
By now, you may have seen an industry ad like this, talking up gas as a means of American energy independence and prosperity, but what they don't say is that there are plans to export it to China and India-- and profits too, as these companies are increasingly multinational or even foreign-owned.
Their hired PR guns also come out blazing when unfavorable coverage of the industry erupts, as it did in the New York Times, when reporter Ian Urbina exposed industry insider emails questioning the favorable forecasts the industry has put out on fracking -- one insider going so far as calling drilling leases "Ponzi schemes."
The industry didn't like that.
As Politico reports, John Hanger, once secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and now an environmental consultant, compared Urbina to Judith Miller and Jayson Blair, saying "This is not their [the Times'] first rogue reporter." It appears his consulting services include acting as an attack dog against reporters who ask too many questions about fracking.
The Marcellus Shale Coalition (whose members have a financial stake in fracking the Marcellus shale) spent a total of $1.8 million on its PR initiatives in 2009, while the Independent Petroleum Association of America (IPAA) has an $8 million budget, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. One of IPAA's initiatives is Energy in Depth, a web site devoted to debunking the documentary Gasland.
Now, the American Petroleum Institute (API) is poised to spend $20 million on an "advocacy campaign". We don't know for sure, but given the industry's difficulties in defending fracking over recent months, we bet this money will go towards a campaign that will continue to spin fracking as a safe means of achieving prosperity and energy security.
3. Buying Silence
How does the industry keep contamination under wraps? It pays settlement fees to families whose water has been contaminated by shale gas drilling -- fees that hinge on the landowner signing a confidentiality agreement to keep details about the case from government agencies, the media and the public.
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The conference team has created an Instagram contest that gives you the opportunity to win a free ticket to this year's TIU Student Leadership Conference! We'll pick 2 winning photos—one from each category below. The deadline is Thursday, April 17 at 3pm. Upload your photos to Facebook or directly to Instagram with the hashtag #tiu360. Each student is able to upload a maximum of 5 pictures per category to be considered for one of the two competition prizes.
This category is designed to get your gears spinning and is not concerned with location of the photo. You are to use, design, or create your very own "torch" to pose with.
Caution: Do not use inappropriate or dangerous objects in your pictures or you will be automatically disqualified.
Similar to the "planking" phenomenon, we have coined a new term called "torch bearing." This entails taking off one of your shoes in a peculiar place and holding it up like a torch while standing on leg.
To enter the competition you must upload a photo through Facebook or directly to Instagram with the hashtag #tiu360. The final closing date is April 17th at 3pm. No further entries will be permitted after this date. Winners will be chosen on that day and be notified through Instagram. If you do not claim the prize within 5 days, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner. Winners will be chosen by a panel of judges from Emerging Kingdom Leaders. The competition prize includes free admission to Trinity International University's 360 High School Leadership Conference at a value of $80. If a student who has already registered wins, they will receive a refund of conference admission in the form of a giftcard.
By participating in the contest, students are granting permission for their photo(s) to be potentially posted on our website or Facebook page.


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Understanding basketball through literary quotes. Or something like that.
Maintained by Evan Dunlap of the Orlando Magic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post.
Inspired by Slaugherhouse 90210, which does the same thing, only with television.
Photo with 18 notes
Powerful people either had a number two or needed one or both—meaning they needed a different one from the one they had.
- Jennifer Egan, The Keep
This is a pathetic big 3
Playoffs aren't the same without them. ):


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happy feetThis photo was shot on film. Taken by yra with a Lomography Diana F+ (available in our Online Shop) loaded with Lomography Color Negative 100 (35mm) film (available in our Online Shop) in Quezon City, Philippines. These tags describe this photo: red, feet, and 2011. This photo can also be found in the album FIRST ROLL.
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You are here
: Living
: Renton History Museum
Cultural events are free with regular Museum admission, a suggested donation of $3 per adult and $1 per child, and always free for members.
Renton History Museum is located at 235 Mill Ave. S., Renton, WA 98057, one block south of Renton Library. Phone: 425.255.2330.
Join Newcastle City Councilmember Rich Crispo and Newcastle Historical Society President Russ Segner for a conversation about Newcastle's juiciest tidbits and mind-blowing facts. Come find out what makes Newcastle unique and why the fates of Renton and Newcastle, two neighboring coal towns, were so vastly different. Rich and Russ will be taking topic suggestions from the audience, so bring your questions and your curiosity and learn things about Newcastle that you never knew!
Spooky Songs and Terrifying Tales with Anne Rutherford
To help Renton celebrate Halloween, gifted storyteller Anne Rutherford will present a selection of stories and songs at the Museum for families. Audiences of all ages love her spine-shivering, funny-bone-tingling stories and songs - but she's also an award-winning liar, so don't believe everything she tells you!
While miners provided the physical labor for the coal industry, they needed a large support group at the surface in order to help bring prosperity to Newcastle: loggers, pickers, blacksmiths, carpenters, mechanics, power plant workers, and loved ones. Newcastle Historical Society member Mike Intlekofer will show various mining, logging, farming, and household artifacts from the Milt Swanson Collection and describe how they were used to support the workers underground.


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The start of National Factory for engineering works was in 1989 to product (Magnesium oxide - magnesium chloride) through our experience over nearly twenty-five years of continuous work, success and perfection we are specializing in manufacturing and pioneer in the production of (Magnesium oxide ...
A leading manufacturer specializing in products magnesium (magnesium oxide - magnesium chloride) Product from our ores mines high quality and purity, some of the other high quality metals and the best sources are producing to process in order to be always in the evolution development and provide the best in this days of rapid rhythms and large updates '' the stay will be only for the best .''..
Always strive to provide the best
Design and development of Smart Lines For Advanced Systems.


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Autodesk 123D Make Intro Mobile App Released
Thursday, May 10 - Autodesk has released the iOS version of their 123D Make app. The app contains pre-loaded 3D models that be assembled from 2D pieces. For these pre-loaded models, the app provides step-by-step assembly instructions.
123D Make Intro also features a Create mode where you can draw 2D designs and revolve them into the third dimension. The good people at Ponoko will laser cut the pieces of your model and deliver them directly to your home.
The app looks cool, and Autodesk has shown that they have a knack for user-friendly 3D design tools. I'm really excited to play with 123D Make and see what else Autodesk has in store.
3D Systems Acquires FreshFiber
Tuesday, May 8 - There was yet another acquisition by 3D Systems this week as the 3D giant added "FreshFiber BV" to its catalog. FreshFiber, based out of Amsterdam, specializes in consumer 3D printed products. They achieve their mission of "bringing 3D art and design to consumer electronics" through the production of a lot of cool 3D printed cases for cell phones and iPads. According to Market Watch, FreshFiber is the "leading 3D printed consumer electronics accessories brand sold online and in retail stores today."
While 3D Systems has been buying up companies left and right, I can definitely understand their interest in a company like FreshFiber. iPhone cases are an excellent product for 3D printing; they're plastic, prime for customization, and they look great. FreshFiber does something that not many companies currently do, they create 3D printed products that appeal to average consumers. Bravo!
How Did I Not Know about TMF?
Friday, May 4 - I stumbled onto my new favorite website today - ThatsMyFace.com. TMF allows you to upload a picture of yourself and have it rendered and printed in three dimensions. You can throw your head on an action figure, have a framed head emerging from your wall, or even create a lifelike mask out of your own face. As soon as I saw that TMF had a section titled "ornamental heads" I was hooked.
You don't have to settle for your face, you can take pictures of a celebrity and get a Ryan Gosling head if you'd like. If you do settle for your face, you can change your skin color, gender, and even "beautify" your face!
If I HAD to list my three favorite TMF ideas, they would be:
1. Surprise party where everyone is wearing the guest of honor's face as a mask.
2. Quietly stash action figures of my coworkers around the office, let them be gradually discovered.
3. Frighteningly hyper-realistic effigy
While the prints are somewhat costly, anyone who's made a voodoo doll will tell you this level of realism is well worth the price.
Printxel - $300 3D Printer
Thursday, May 3 - It's impossible to throw a stick on the Internet these days without hitting a crowdfunding 3D printer project, and we struck a new one yesterday. The Printxel (pronounced Print-zl) is a campaign on Kickstarter.com. The Printxel is remarkably inexpensive at just $300 for a complete kit. Adjunct Engineering, the creators of the project, limited the number of kits available to 25, for a total fundraising goal of $7500. The kits sold out in a little less than 11 hours. But, if you're interested in getting your hands on a Printxel, you can reserve your place in line here. Check out the video for more info.
The Magic!
Wednesday, May 2 - Stratasys will unveil "What's New in the World of 3D Printing" next Tuesday, May 8th. If you visit their homepage you can see the big orange teaser with a countdown set to end at 10:00 AM (Central Time).
Stratasys certainly has roused curiosity with such an ominous headline and countdown. One possibility is the introduction of a new personal 3D printer. Currently, Stratasys and Objet have no answer to 3D System's Cubify. With the Cubify set to ship this month, it's not unlikely that Stratasys and Object will release a home machine in the near future, before 3D Systems is able to gobble up the market. Be sure to check in next Tuesday to learn all about "the magic."
HooPrint – The 3D-Printed 2D Printer
Students in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering department at UVA have developed a 2D printer composed of parts made on a 3D Printer. The video demonstration shows the printer sketching out a few drawings. The print head is simply a pen held in place. The pen follows a programmed path in two-dimensional space.
While this concept is not new, it would be interesting to see the potential of automated art further developed. Sketches could theoretically be purchased or downloaded online through an Etsy or Shapeways-type service and then sketched out manually by the printer for a new, "original" print. Even more exciting would be a machine that could paint as well as draw. Imagine picking out artwork online, tweaking the color scheme to fit your walls, pressing "print," watching your machine go to work, and picking up a real painting with real brushstrokes.
Prediction: In the future we will exaggerate our artistic ability by filling our sketchbooks with HooPrint drawings. Thank You notes will be typed out on the computer and then printed in beautiful calligraphy, saving us time. We will take snapshots of our families, upload them to the computer, insert ourselves into various historical moments, add our favorite celebrities, and press "print." Maybe.
Shapeways & SkillShare
Shapeways recently announced that they'd be hosting introductory 3D design classes through SkillShare. SkillShare is a service that allows users to teach or enroll in classes being offered on a tremendous variety of topics. Shapeways has opened a virtual school on SkillShare where you can catch a glimpse of what's being offered.
The classes currently include:
- Intro to Parametric Design & 3D Printed Jewelry
- Intro to Design for 3D Printing with Shapeways
- Intro to Parametric Design & 3D Printed Wall Art
- How to Design your own Ring and 3D Print it with Shapeways
- Intro to Parametric Design & 3D Printed Building Block Sculptures
- Design your own iPhone Case to be 3D Printed with Shapeways
- Design for 3D Printing with Shapeways
Only three of the seven classes have a scheduled time and place thus far. Two of them will be taught in New York City and one in Los Angeles. Hopefully in the future classes will be available online and anyone can enroll, regardless of their location.
It's an excellent idea to offer classes like these. Without knowledge of the right software, people are limited to printing Other People's Designs, or OPD. Best of luck to Shapeways with this great initiative!
Cubify - The Big Boys Get Involved
Friday, April 27 - Cubify is an exciting 3D printer to watch because it comes from 3D Systems, one of the behemoths of the industry. It's the first large scale attempt by a company that specializes in commercial printing to develop and promote a personal machine.
While the Cube is drawing interest from all age groups, it has some features that make it especially attractive to children. The colorful, simple machine has an inviting, almost toy-like quality. 3D Systems recently acquired My Robot Nation to incorporate into the Cube, reinforcing the notion that getting children excited to use the printer is a high priority. At $1299, the price is comparable to many printers on the market today. Unlike other printers, however, the Cube has unique filament cartridges, which likely means users will need to rely on one source for their plastic. 3D Systems is also hoping that users take to their online pay-per-print service, for which a new Cube comes with 25 free object downloads.
The Cubes begin shipping on May 25th. In the mean time, 3D Systems has been promoting the printer with demonstrations in cities across the U.S. In a product partnership made in heaven, the promoters are traveling exclusively in a decked out Nissan Cube. The team, hereafter referred to as "Cube Squared," is currently spreading the 3D gospel from coast to coast. Check out Cube Squared's schedule if you'd like to find a demonstration in your city. Clearly the resources of a large company like 3D Systems will help build the Cube brand as more consumers become interested in 3D printing. It's interesting to see what qualities a company like 3D Systems has chosen to emphasize in a personal machine, and it will be interesting to see how the Cube is received by the marketplace.
Solidoodle - Sub $500 3D Printer
Solidoodle recently announced the second generation of their personal printers, the aptly named "Solidoodle 2," for which they are now accepting pre-orders. The most notable feature of the Solidoodle 2 is the price - the machine starts at just $499. Solidoodle emphasizes user friendly, pre-built, ready to use machines, explaining that "this is the printer for people who just want to print, not assemble a machine."
Solidoodle was founded by Samuel Cervantes, the former COO of MakerBot, after he left in 2010. Cervantes told BetaBeat that his focus has been on making 3D printers that are more affordable and easier to use, rather than dwelling on higher functionality like other companies.
At a lean $499, the base Solidoodle 2 comes in $50 cheaper than the base model of the PrintrBot. The Solidoodle is also available in two higher models. The "Pro" model ($549) and the "Expert" model ($599) each tout features not included on the $499 model, such as heated build platforms and filament spool holders. Be sure to do some research to determine which model suits your needs. Will affordable printers like the Solidoodle and PrintrBot lead the way in popularizing personal 3D printing, or will the increased functionality of more expensive machines prove dominant? I have no idea.
The RepRap blog announced some awesome developments on their filament mixing extruder project. They have been working on an extruder that will mix two filaments together to produce a new color. While it's still in early development, they've given us a sneak peak into their progress.
The extruder works by literally stirring two melted filaments strands together. The RepRap team may soon add a "purge bucket" to empty the stir chamber between color changes. These models above were made with no control over the amount of filament being pushed into the extruder. Adjusting the rate at which each filament is added will enable a nice spectrum of colors between two given filaments.
After perfecting the art of mixing two filaments, perhaps this could lead to the mixing of three? Cyan, Yellow, and Magenta would be some top picks. While it's still very early, the prospect of multicolor personal 3D printing is quite exciting.