text:
Making Sense of College Aid
Cole Schenewerk has a tough choice ahead of him.
The high-school senior from El Cajon, Calif., already has gotten an acceptance packet from Southern Methodist University and a preliminary scholarship offer from an Ivy League college. And he is still waiting to hear from seven other schools, which he expects will dangle a variety of financial-aid offers.
"Definitely, finances are a big deal," says Mr. Schenewerk, a coin collector who plans to work part-time in college while studying business. "A lot of these schools have really high sticker prices. If I don't get the scholarships I need, I won't be able to go there."
How Do Schools Stack Up?
The financial return on a college education depends on a complex calculation involving cost and the potential payoff. This tool will help you determine both.
Many high-school seniors are in a similar situation. They have taken their SATs, written admissions essays and sent in their applications. Now the acceptances—and financial-aid offers—are rolling in. The pressure is on to figure out which college might produce the biggest return on investment.
But getting to the bottom line can be a dizzying exercise. Colleges aren't required to use uniform language to describe their financial-aid packages. Only about 700 of the nation's roughly 6,000 colleges have adopted the U.S. Department of Education's "Financial Aid Shopping Sheet," which provides a standard format for evaluating costs and performance. (It is on the web at collegecost.ed.gov/shopping_sheet.pdf.)
Some schools don't even mention costs in their financial-aid award letters, while other schools cite only tuition and fees, ignoring transportation, textbooks and living expenses. Many colleges describe loans as "financial aid" or obscure the fact that the aid package includes federal loans to be taken out by parents.
What's more, some schools are generous with grants and scholarships for freshmen, but are less so for upperclassmen. And most schools leave it up to families to guess how much costs will go up each year.
Choosing a college involves a complex mix of variables, including course offerings, geography and overall fit. But purely in financial terms, families can make smarter decisions by zooming in on factors such as net price after aid, graduation rate, job placement rates and how much you might have to borrow.
"When you are looking at your final options, you want to set aside, for the time being, the emotional content and analyze things rationally," says Anne Sturtevant, executive director of higher education at the College Board, provider of the SAT and Advanced Placement Program.
The consequences for making a bad choice can be enormous, given the rising costs. The average student who borrows has piled up nearly $29,000 in student loans by graduation, or more than $37,000 if you include loans taken out by parents, estimates Mark Kantrowitz, publisher of FinAid.org, a financial-aid resource site.
Here is a step-by-step guide to making the best possible college choice—in financial terms, anyway. (For an interactive tool that can help you compare your various financial-aid awards and see how schools stack up based on graduates' salaries, debt and other measures, go to graphics.wsj.com/college-costs. And in order to report any confusing award letters, send an email to: firstname.lastname@example.com.)
• Calculate net cost. First, total up tuition, room and board for all of the colleges on the student's list.
To calculate the full cost, add in other expenses. Students at four-year colleges spend an average of $1,210 a year on books and $1,060 on transportation, according to the College Board. Other extras to watch out for include materials and lab fees, parking and health insurance, though schools sometimes will let you opt out of health coverage if your child is covered by your insurance plan.
If some costs aren't clear, families should check the college's website or ask the admissions office.
The next step is to subtract for each school any grants and scholarship offers from the total cost. That will provide a so-called net price, including any borrowing, for each school.
Chris Noah, an advertising executive who lives in Middletown, N.J., ruled out several schools that accepted his son, Derek, because the net price wasn't competitive. Derek, now a high-school senior, plans to attend Allegheny College in Meadville, Pa., and major in environmental studies.
A $15,000 merit scholarship made it "much more doable," Mr. Noah says.
• Estimate the cost over four years or longer. Many families overlook rising costs after a student enrolls. The average sticker price of tuition and fees at private, nonprofit colleges has jumped 13% since the 2007-08 academic year, even after accounting for inflation, and by 27% at public four-year schools, according to the College Board.
Some schools are trying to rein in cost increases—or even freeze tuition—but past price increases can provide a general estimate of what you can expect, says Brian Zucker, a consultant who works with colleges on pricing strategies.
To be safe, families should calculate costs over four and five years, because many students take more than four years to graduate. Just 53% of students at nonprofit private schools and 31% at public colleges graduate in four years, according to the Department of Education.
If you can barely manage in the first year, "you should be very cautious about accepting," advises Bonnie Kerrigan Snyder, a college consultant in Lancaster, Pa. At many schools, freshmen receive more of their aid in the form of grants than seniors, she notes.
All told, about 50% of colleges front-load grants, meaning freshmen receive more of their aid as grants than seniors do, Mr. Kantrowitz says.
• Scrutinize the fine print on merit awards. Many schools offer generous "merit aid" to high-achieving students in an effort to meet enrollment goals and boost college rankings. But most offers aren't adjusted for inflation. Some are good for only a single year or require that the student meet other requirements.
Families should ask colleges what happens to the award if costs increase and whether there are any conditions for renewal.
Another question to ask: What happens to the aid package if the student receives outside scholarships? Colleges typically reduce financial-aid packages proportionately for students who win outside scholarships, but they can do it by cutting loans, grants or both.
• Balance prestige and cost. Some students, like Chandler Walsh, a senior in Berlin, Mass., are confronting a choice between a cheaper school and one with a better reputation. "I could go to some schools and not have to worry about money, and some schools where I would worry a lot," she says.
Dean Skarlis, president of the College Advisor of New York, which works with families on college admissions and aid, advises families facing this dilemma to weigh costs over four years. "Is this place $22,000 times four better?" he asks. "It forces them to clarify why one school is better than the other."
Mr. Kantrowitz recommends selecting the better-regarded school if the difference in net price is $1,000 or less. If the gap is more than $5,000, "go with the cheaper school," he says. Students who borrow heavily are less likely to attend graduate school, might be under pressure to choose a job that pays better over one for which they are better suited and are more likely to struggle to repay their college debt, he says.
• Manage borrowing. As a rule of thumb, total student debt at graduation—including parent loans the student is expected to repay—shouldn't exceed the student's annual starting salary at graduation, Mr. Kantrowitz says. Parents shouldn't take on more debt—for all of their children—than they can afford to repay within 10 years or by retirement, whichever comes first, he adds.
Federal loans are the safest option because they contain special protections and repayment options, including income-based repayment, says Lauren Asher, president of the Institute for College Access and Success, an advocacy group. Subsidized Stafford loans are particularly attractive, partly because interest doesn't begin to accrue until the repayment period begins.
Families planning to take out federal Parent Plus loans should apply as soon as they can to be sure they qualify. Rejection rates have increased since the federal government tightened lending standards for Parent Plus loans last fall.
Beware of aid offers that include private loans "because it means you can't borrow enough from the federal government," advises Nancy Coolidge, associate director of student financial support for the University of California system. Federal rules generally limit undergraduates who are dependents to $31,000 in government-backed loans.
• Appeal inadequate aid offers. "If your financial-aid package isn't what you expected, there is absolutely no harm in going back to the financial-aid office and letting them know this isn't what you expected," says Justin Draeger, president of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators.
To bolster your case, document a change in family circumstances, such as a job loss or large medical bills, or a major expense that doesn't show up on your financial-aid form, such as the cost of caring for an aging parent.
Mr. Skarlis says one client nabbed a larger award by showing that a property sale that generated a large capital gain was a one-time event. An offer from a competing school also might work in your favor, particularly if your child's test scores and grades are in the top 25% for that institution, he says.
• Focus on outcomes. A record 88% of last year's incoming freshmen cited the ability to get a better job as a "very important" reason for attending college, according to a national survey released in January by the Higher Education Research Institute at the University of California, Los Angeles.
For a sense of outcomes, families should look at a college's four-year and six-year graduation rate, loan-default rate for its students, average debt loads and the pay for recent and midcareer graduates. Families can find this type of information on websites such as College Navigator (nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator), the Institute for College Access and Success's College InSight (college-insight.org) and PayScale (payscale.com).
Families also should keep an eye out for mitigating factors. High average debt loads are less troubling if few students borrow. Liberal-arts graduates might have lower starting pay but earn more over time. What's more, salary figures don't account for students who go on to graduate school. The least-selective schools, meanwhile, are likely to have lower graduation rates.
Some schools voluntarily provide average debt at graduation, while in other cases, the only information available is debt at the time borrowers enter repayment, whether or not they have graduated. That can understate borrowing at schools with high drop out rates.
Families also should ask what the college does to help students burnish their resumes and interviewing skills, how many students go on to graduate school and where they study, and which employers come to the school to recruit, says Deborah Fox, a San Diego financial planner and founder of Fox College Funding.
Eli Castronova, a real-estate executive in Scottsdale, Ariz., says his daughter, Naomi, now a freshman, chose Barrett, the Honors College at Arizona State University, in part because 70% of its graduates go on to graduate school.
"You need a graduate school specialty to excel in the workplace, and we have finite resources," he says. Barrett is "known for helping its students prepare for and pursue postgraduate studies."
Write to Ruth Simon at email@example.com


text:
WHEELING - Those who think they know the full story behind the Mountain State's birth may be in for a surprise or two if they visit downtown Wheeling's West Virginia Independence Hall Tuesday.
The third-floor courtroom there where much of the real-life drama behind West Virginia's creation played out will be the stage for two productions that evening of the statehood play "A New Home for Liberty." There will be two showings - one at 6 p.m. and another at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free, but reservations are encouraged by calling West Virginia Independence Hall at 304-238-1300 or visiting the website www.jrclifford.org.
Authored by Charleston lawyer Tom Rodd and sponsored by the J.R. Clifford Project, the play looks at the West Virginia statehood movement through the lens of the troubling issues of slavery and civil rights, addressing matters often glossed over in history textbooks - such as how West Virginia's initial draft constitution was silent on the issue of slavery, as well as the ridicule faced by children whose parents were identified with the abolition movement.
"Thousands of men and women - black and white, slave and free, young and old - risked their lives and fortunes for the cause of freedom in a new state of West Virginia. These heroic people made Wheeling a true cradle of liberty in the 1860s, and we are excited to tell their stories at historic Independence Hall," Rodd said.
The play's two main characters - J.R. Clifford, a Civil War veteran and West Virginia's first black attorney, and abolitionist Granville Hall, an early editor of the Wheeling Intelligencer - will be played, respectively, by Fairmont State University law professor Greg Hinton and former state Supreme Court of Appeals Justice Larry Starcher.
The cast also includes Wheeling Mayor Andy McKenzie as Archibald Campbell, leader of the statehood movement and editor of the Daily Intelligencer; Circuit Judge Ronald Wilson as Abraham Lincoln; and Independence Hall Site Manager Travis Henline as Gov. Francis Pierpont.
Other local cast members portraying characters from West Virginia's past include Circuit Judge James Mazzone and retired Circuit Judge George Spillers; Ohio County Commissioner Orphy Klempa and Prosecutor Scott Smith; Hancock County Sheriff Ralph Fletcher, Prosecutor James Davis and Assistant Prosecutor Jack Wood; area attorneys Patrick Cassidy, Teresa Toriseva, Jerry Jacovetty, Jessica Benedict, Rick Hollandsworth, Rob McCoid and Jeffrey McCamic; and Marilyn Mendelson, Geneva Barrax, and the Rev. Jeremiah Jasper of Fourth Street United Methodist Church.
Rodd said it's no accident that so much of the cast is composed of people in the legal profession. With so much of their work revolving around legal codes and constitutions, lawyers and judges often get bogged down with words - but "A New Home for Liberty" helps give life to the impact of those words, he said.
"Those words had importance as to whether a child was born a slave or not," Rodd said of West Virginia's constitution.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
As I am prepping for the 2010 season to begin I have to start with where we really needed to improve from 2009. For the last years season I was really happy with our pork. Everything else needs a lot more work. Especially brisket. I have struggled with brisket. Brisket is my challenge above all challenges. Overall for the year we came in 241 out of 4716 on the Pickled Pig Rankings. I am proud and challenged by those results. Just shy of being in the top 5% overall we came in:
- 173 out of 4716 Pork
- 267 out of 4716 Chicken
- 331 out of 4716 Ribs
- 580 out of 4716 Brisket
For these rankings we had 6 competitions that were included:
We did however compete in additional competitions for the 2009 as well that were not included in those rankings:
Canada Southern BBQ Championships
Grand Champion
1st — Pork; 2nd — Ribs; 3rd — Brisket; 3rd —Chicken 1st—Anything But
"Smoke on the Water Barbecue Competition Saskatchewan"
Reserve Grand Champion
1st — Pork; 2nd — Ribs; 4th — Brisket; 4th—Chicken 1st—Anything But
Canadian Pork BBQ Championships
Reserve Grand Champion
2nd—Chicken; 2nd — Pork; 4th — Brisket; 4th — Ribs
National BBQ Festival "Best of the Best"
Invitational BBQ Cook-off
4th Overall
7th — Pork Shoulder; 6th — Chicken;
National BBQ Festival "Best of the Best"
Open BBQ Cook-off
13th Overall
9th — Ribs
BBQ on the Bow Calgary Alberta
4th Overall
1st — Brisket; 3rd — Ribs
Crazy Canuck BBQ Championships Toronto Ontario
4th Overall
3rd—Chicken; 3rd — Pork; 4th — Ribs; 6th — Brisket
Overall we made improvements to our overall BBQ in my opinion. I am hoping to be able to attend more competitions this year however my schedule may have some interesting diversions this year. I can't share them yet but I am really excited for 2010 overall. I have a lot of practice and work to do. LOL


text:
TEMPLE (December 5, 2012)—Melisa Durrett, 44, of Belton was in the Bell County Jail Wednesday facing a list of charges after Temple police officers got an eyeful from a woman who proved to be a handful at the scene of a disturbance Tuesday night.
Durrett was held in lieu of bonds totaling $6,500 charged with criminal mischief, drug possession, public intoxication and resisting arrest after the incident.
Officers were sent just before 9 p.m. Tuesday to a convenience store in the 3800 block of South 31st Street in response to a report that a woman was exposing her breasts to customers and employees.
When they arrived, the woman was lying on the ground and yelling incoherently, a police report said.
When officers approached, she lifted her shirt and bared her breasts to officers, police said.
When officers attempted to arrest her for public intoxication, she resisted, police said, and she also kicked and damaged the patrol car in which she was placed after she was in custody.
A report said she damaged emergency lights mounted on the rear deck of the patrol car when she tried to kick out a window.
What a police report described only as a dangerous drug was recovered after the arrest.
Other details weren't immediately available.


text:
I admit I was disappointed with the outcome of last night's College Football National Championship game. Alabama had a great season,and deserve a big pat on the back... but the real winner in the game last night was The Gospel. You don't even have to be a sports fan to appreciate Texas Longhorns quarterback Colt McCoy! As a sports fan, I was heartbroken to see Colt get knocked out of the biggest game of his college career, but the lesson that we can all learn from how he handled it was a lesson that will stick with me far longer than a National Championship.
Colt showed what it means to love God and let your light so shine before men. I am sure that Colt would have glorified God in his post game speech, if Texas would have won, but I am sure that it wouldn't have had the impact that his parting words did last night. His words, his heart, his display of sportsmanship brought me to tears and inspired me. I hope that you'll take the time to watch this video, and then to pass it on!
Now Playing: Drops In The O...
Artist: Hawk Nelson
On-Air: Morning Show
Thanks for listening to the Scott and Kelli Show! You can listen online weekdays from 5-9pm Eastern at www.klove.com/listen.
Like Us
Scott Smith
Kelli Caldwell


text:
- 22 Resorts
- Consistent Snow
- Diverse destinations
- Resorts open before those of many other states
- Home to Vail, Beaver Creek, Copper Mountain
Related Regions: United States,
Winterstorm Jonas paralyzes eastern cities while refilling Mid-Atlantic resorts with record-breaking snowfall. Full Article
26th January 2016
Wisp, Canaan and Shawnee offer unique beginner packages that will turn any first-timer into a life-timer instantly. Full Article
31st December 2013
The best deals on multi-day lift tickets and mid-winter getaways lead the way to winter. Full Article
3rd December 2013
Hurricane Sandy brought a blizzard to mid-atlantic ski areas in West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Ohio. Full Article
30th October 2012
Get your 2012/2013 season pass for ski resorts in the East today for discounts over regular season pricing. Full Article
14th June 2012
Mother Nature looks to bring the snow back for the weekend of Jan. 13. Full Article
12th January 2012
After a bleak Christmas weekend across North America, snow returns to the forecast. Full Article
27th December 2011
Winter Weather Advisory effect for Northeast, cold temps in the crystal ball. Full Article
7th December 2011
Snowshoe Mountain joins Hidden Valley, Seven Springs and Wisp Resort to offer season pass holders more for 2011/2012. Full Article
21st October 2011
Package includes lift ticket, rental, and lesson. Full Article
7th February 2011
One night's lodging, one day lift ticket. Full Article
27th December 2010
Three resorts offer benefits to season passholders. Full Article
8th November 2010
Adventure Park continues to expand offerings. Full Article
20th September 2010
Decisions, decisions. Making the decision on where to take the winter vacation can be agonizing. Our editors take you across North America to help narrow your choices. Full Article
10th September 2010
Maryland's Wisp and Pennsylvania's Bear Creek are lining up warm weather recreation options. Full Article
29th March 2010
Wisp Resort in Maryland and Snowshoe Resort in West Virginia vie for top honors in snow for 20009-10 season. Full Article
8th March 2010
Wisp Resort in western Maryland offers experiences for all snow sports enthusiasts. Full Article
15th February 2010
Storm forecast to produce record snowfall in Washington D.C. area. Full Article
5th February 2010
Maryland's Wisp Resort discounted lift tickets and partnership programs apply to high school and college students, locals, and frugal shoppers. Full Article
25th January 2010
Wisp in Western Maryland offers an extensive array of children's learning programs starting at age three; child care starts at age two. Full Article
11th January 2010
Get snow reports, weather, forecasts, news and ski conditions for your favorite ski resorts.


text:
I have the following code:
public static class CardView {
public static object Column<TModel, TResult>(Func<TModel, TResult> field) {
return null;
public class Person
public string Name { get; set; }
public bool Gender { get; set; }
void Main()
var model = new Person() { Name = "Andre", Gender = true };
var b = CardView.Column(model => model.Name); // ERROR
// The type arguments for method 'UserQuery.CardView.Column<TModel,TResult>(System.Func<TModel,TResult>)' cannot be inferred from the usage. Try specifying the type arguments explicitly.
For some reason it's not able to infer the generic types for the
Column method. I need to know why. I can't give up the type inference and specify the types myself because it's just a case study for a large problem where it will be indispensable.
I misspelled the code =/ just fixed it


text:
Lake Manyara National Park
At the base of the Great Rift Valley, lies Lake Manyara National Park. This scenic little park is most famous for its tree-climbing lions, elephants, hippos and three species of primates. The park boasts one of the highest concentrations of elephants in Africa and is home to the largest baboon troops ever documented. More than 400 species of birds have been recorded here. With cliffs towering over 2,000 feet above the lake, it is here that the Great Rift is most dramatic.
Best Known For
• Tree-climbing lions and blue monkeys
• Largest baboon troop ever recorded
• Highest concentrations of elephants in Africa
• Dramatic Rift Valley views
125 square miles
Ground-water Forest, Lake, Floodplains, Acacia Woodlands
Main Species
Elephant, Baboon, Blue & Vervet Monkey, Hippo, Flamingo, Giraffe, Lion, Dik-Dik, Mongoose
Lake Manyara is a beautiful little park and is well known for its tree-climbing lions, elephants and three species of primates including the vervet monkey, blue monkey and baboon. The park boasts one of the highest concentrations of elephants in Africa and is home to the largest baboon troops ever documented. The Park provides the only opportunity on the traditional safari circuit to see the striking blue monkey. Lake Manyara is home to an amazing variety of birds and animals, especially considering its small size. A short visit to this serene park will greatly diversify your safari experience as the lush green jungle habitat is of stark contrast to the other parks you will visit during your safari.
Lake Manyara National Park fills roughly 125 square miles of territory but the shallow, alkaline lake consumes the majority of this area. The Great Rift Valley itself is an immense rupture in the earth's surface, splitting the landscape along a fault some 6500 kilometers all the way from the Red Sea to the Zambezi River; it is one of the earth's few geological features that can be seen from the moon. It is here, with cliffs towering some 2000 feet above Lake Manyara, that the Great Rift Valley is at its most dramatic.
From whichever direction you approach Lake Manyara, it is a stunning sight. Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley, the lake appears like a shimmering mirage in the distance. The mirror like surface of the water reflects the shifting shades of the sky above - from dawn's rosy hue in the early morning to glittering blue as the sun rolls directly overhead to golden glass as the yellow rays of sunset strike across the Great Rift Valley.
The wooded slopes that blanket the steep escarpment down to the valley are lush and green. This densely forested slope eventually opens up to a vast expanse of floodplains that surround the lake itself and meld into the endless plains beyond the lake that are eventually lost in the hazy distance. The strip of trees between lake and escarpment is so narrow, and the pressure on elephants in the surrounding farm country so great, that Manyara can claim the greatest elephant concentration in East Africa. For this reason and also because the Manyara animals are used to vehicles, it is one of the best places to watch elephants in the world. The first long-term field study of elephants in the wild was conducted in Lake Manyara and the book entitled Among the Elephants by Iain and Oria Douglas-Hamilton documents this pioneering work.
The landscape of Lake Manyara National Park is a mosaic of varied flora and habitats that hosts an amazing variety of wildlife. This intricate patchwork of complex bionetworks include the groundwater forest, the acacia woodlands, the grassy floodplains and of course the lake itself. In just a two-hour trip foray into the park, it is possible to see all the main highlights in the groundwater forest and the floodplains leading up to the lake. Overall Lake Manyara National Park is an exquisite gem. Small but lovely, and splendidly diverse, this park is true scenic retreat for the eyes and the soul.
Game Viewing
In addition to the striking scenery, game viewing can be quite rewarding here at the base of the Great Rift Valley. Resident herbivores that you will likely encounter include elephant, hippo, giraffe, wildebeest, buffalo, warthog and impala. Primates include vervet monkey, blue monkey and baboon. Lake Manyara boasts the highest concentrations of baboons in Africa. The baboons are among the more exciting animals to watch in the park as they squabble and feud in their large extended family groups. Baboons live in large communities called 'troops' of up to 200 individuals and defend fixed territories belonging to the females.
The baboons, elephants and impala can be found in the groundwater forest in the immediate area around the park gate. This lush green forest of giant fig trees and mahoganies is fed from underground springs that are constantly replenished from the crater highlands directly above the Manyara basin. The forest gives way to floodplains that lead up to the lake about 30 minutes from the gate. On the floodplains and fringes you will encounter buffalo, wildebeest and giraffe. There are also several pools supporting large concentrations of hippos.
Carnivores include lion and leopard. There are several resident lion prides in the park but they are much more difficult to see as compared with their cousins in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. The leopards of Manyara, though abundant, are elusive and only the occasional lucky visitor ever glimpses one in Manyara. If you are keen on seeing a leopard, make sure to spend two nights in the Central Serengeti as the Seronera River Valley is your best place to see a leopard in perhaps all of Africa.
It is commonly said that Lake Manyara is one of best the parks in Africa for birdwatchers. With over 300 species including migratory birds, even the most seasoned bird enthusiast will not be disappointed. The lake itself attracts thousands of greater and lesser flamingos along with many other aquatic species. Two of the more interesting species commonly seen are the long-crested eagle and the grey-headed kingfisher.
We find that a quick day visit to Lake Manyara incorporated on any itinerary between the Ngorongoro Crater and Arusha or the Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire is ideal for most travelers. The park gate is just a few feet from the main road and this combined with the fact that the park is small allows for quick and rewarding forays into the park. In addition, the majority of the wildlife found in the park is usually located in close proximity to the park gate. The walkway around the visitors center at the park gate is actually the best spot to see the stunning blue monkey. A two to four hour visit to Lake Manyara makes a superb addition to any safari itinerary.


text:
Clyde Williams and Mona Sutphen are the epitome of a power couple. The two met when they were both working in the Clinton Administration and both went on to enjoy prominent roles in the Obama Administration, with Mona serving as the country's first African American female deputy chief of staff for policy and Clyde serving as the political director for the Democratic National Committee.
Though the duo now lives in New York City, they haven't given up on politics just yet. Mona is now the managing director of the Swiss bank UBS AG, covering geopolitical risk and macro-policy trends, while Clyde is running for Congress in New York's newly-formed District 13 against 41-year-incumbent Congressman Charlie Rangel.
But with all the commotion that comes along with heading an international bank and going into campaign season crunch-time -- the primary vote for Clyde is less than two months away on June 26 -- the playful and affectionate couple, who will celebrate eleven years of marriage this year, still find time to dote on their incredibly well-behaved children: seven-year-old daughter Sydney and four-year-old son Davis.
In a sit-down interview with EBONY in their classic Harlem home, Clyde and Mona shared their love story and a peek inside their family life.
EBONY: You first met at The White House while literally planning peace in the Middle East. For policy wonks and politicos, it doesn't get any more romantic than that! Describe that first meeting.
CLYDE WILLIAMS: I can answer that one. We were in The Situation Room planning the Israeli-Palestinian summit and Mona's boss, [then-National Security Advisor] Sandy Berger was sitting across the table from me and he was unhappy about something we scheduled for the summit. The meeting was well under-way when Mona walked into it and Sandy became like Charlie Brown's teacher to me, all I heard was "wah wah wah!" And I'm like who is this woman? I had no idea who she was and I just wanted to know her.
MONA SUTPHEN: I had the same reaction. I see this guy and I thought he was attractive, but I also thought I knew all of the Black people in the White House, so I'm just wondering, "who is this guy?" We didn't actually talk at that meeting, though. It wasn't until two to three weeks later that we met officially at a mutual friend's party.
CW: But I don't want to give off the impression that we have some kind of perfect relationship.
I have someone who has a vested interest in me and she makes me feel like I have no limitations
Subscribe to EBONY today!
Connect to Black America.
We are not "old Black" nor "new Black" we are ALL Black.
MS: Yeah, we broke up probably six times between then and when we got married [in 2001].
EBONY: Why was that? Were your busy schedules getting in the way?
CW: No, not that at all. One of the greatest things about us both working in the same field and facing the same pressures is that we really understand each other's lives and schedules. When you've got to be on call 24-7 or jumping out of bed because the President of the United States needs something done, you've got to be with someone who understands that. So, it wasn't our schedules, she just told me flat out, "I've got enough friends."
EBONY: I know that's right!
CW: [Laughs] What? You're taking her side? OK!
MS: Well, he had just gotten out of a relationship when we met and he was dealing with that and other things. And we would break-up and get back together to the point where our friends wouldn't even pay us any attention anymore. We'd say, "We broke up," and they'd say, "Yeah, sure." But we got married really quickly after we got engaged. We basically eloped, had only ten guests at our wedding and then had a big party for all of our friends later.
EBONY: So Clyde, when was the moment that you knew Mona was the one and you didn't want to be just one of her friends anymore?
CW: There was never a time when I didn't want to be with her. I've always felt like there was something different about Mona. She's the smartest woman I've ever dated and she has my complete best interests at heart. She has always been an encouraging force in my life and anything I want to do, she's like "You can do this; we can make this work." For so long, my mom was that person for me until she died, and having a partner who believes in you makes a profound difference. I have someone who has a vested interest in me and she makes me feel like I have no limitations. Again, I don't want to give off the impression that we have a perfect relationship in any way, but it's perfect for us.
MS: Absolutely. With us, it's like you have this safety net there. Because I have him there supporting me, even if I'm stepping out of my comfort zone, I


text:
Welcome to UT Benefits
Programs designed to meet your needs for Insurance, Retirement and Wellness
NEWSLETTER | Read the current edition of the A Matter of Health Newsletter .
SAVE | Need treatment and want to save money? The Benefits Value Advisor can help!
VIDEOS | Visit the Video Library to learn about your Benefits plans and options.


text:
I've been able to use Net::OpenID::Consumer with success, but when I started requesting the user's email address Google now prompts the user to authorize the sharing of their email address. This happens every single time, regardless of whether the user checks the 'Remember this approval' checkbox. How do I keep Google from prompting the user for approval every time?
Our site's OpenID registration and login paths are the same, otherwise we could only request the email address from Google when the user registers.
I'll try and post enough relevant code (this is a Dancer app).
my $csr = Net::OpenID::Consumer->new(
ua => LWP::UserAgent->new(),
consumer_secret => $secret,
my $claimed_identity = $csr->claimed_identity('https://www.google.com/accounts/o8/id');
'mode' => 'fetch_request',
'type.email' => 'http://axschema.org/contact/email',
'required' => 'email',
my $check_url = $claimed_identity->check_url(
return_to => 'http://my.site.com/openid_landing',
trust_root => 'http://my.site.com',
delayed_return => 1,
Yahoo doesn't appear to have this problem. I guess this could be an issue on Google's end, but I'm betting it's my code.


text:
Liberal Man of the Year
Chief Justice Roberts shares the dais with Lena Dunham.
No Supreme Court Justice has ever said "Live from New York, it's Saturday night," at least on national television, but give it time. This month Glamour magazine named Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg one of its "Women of the Year." And Justice Sonia Sotomayor recently told a muppet on "Sesame Street" that "Pretending to be a princess is fun, but it is definitely not a career," which is true, unless you were born to the House of Windsor.
But none of his colleagues can compete with the media acclaim cascading over Chief Justice John Roberts after his solo decision upholding the Affordable Care Act this June. The editors of Esquire have included Chief Justice Roberts in their December "Americans of the Year" issue, praising his "nimbleness." After the Citizens United decision on free speech and political spending, he found a way "to save the court's credibility."
Chief Justice Roberts shares the Esquire honor with Lena Dunham, the star of an Obama campaign ad and the creator and star of the HBO series about 20-something sexual angst called "Girls."
She and the Chief Justice also make the Atlantic Monthly's list of "Brave Thinkers" of 2012, by which they mean thinkers who agree with the Atlantic's liberal editors. Ms. Dunham is praised for taking "the soft glow off the 'chick flick,'" for instance when her character acts "like an underage street hooker to turn her boyfriend on," while the Chief Justice gets credit for "maintaining the Court's legitimacy" with a ruling "both brave and shrewd." President Obama probably has Time's "Person of the Year" nailed down, but expect the Chief to finish a close second.
Such is the strange new respect a conservative receives for sustaining liberal priorities. Our own view is less effusive, and to expiate his ObamaCare legal sins, a fair punishment would be that he hire Ms. Dunham as a clerk.


text:
i need to come over to someone's house on christmas eve
http://www.nerdist.com/2011/12/heres-th ... v-special/
Here's The Guest Lineup For The Nerdist Christmas Eve TV Special
by Perry Michael Simon on DECEMBER 2, 2011
Um… wow.
You wanna know who's going to be on the Nerdist TV special airing on BBC America on Christmas Eve along with Chris, Jonah, Matt, and Mike Phirman? Here:
Wil Wheaton
Nathan Fillion
Kumail Nanjiani
Simon Pegg
David Tennant
Oh, yes, you will want to be watching. December 24th, 9/8c.


text:
Reviewer: Courtney Lewis, MD
The Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania
Last Modified: February 1, 2004
Authors: Lin J, Jan J, Hsu C, Liang W, Jiang R, Wang W
Source: Journal of Clinical Oncology, 2003; 21:4, 631-637.
In this study concurrent chemoradiation with 5-FU and cisplatin led to improved disease-free and overall survival in locally advanced NPC. The only randomized study prior to this one to show a survival benefit was the United States Intergroup Study (Al-Sarraf et al. JCO, 1998). The Intergroup Study did not include Asian patients, whose NPC subtype is typically different than that of American patients. There were also a large number of patients who did not receive the full dose of chemotherapy and/or radiation secondary to side effects of treatment in that study. For example, only 63% completed the planned chemotherapy regimen. In the present study, the chemotherapy dose was lower and much better tolerated, thus most patients completed the regimen.
There are now two randomized studies that show a benefit for concurrent chemoradiation with a cisplatin-based regimen in terms of overall survival. The studies however, used different doses of chemotherapy in different patient populations, rendering generalizations to all patients difficult. The authors of the present study also concede that the rate of distant failure is still high, and could possibly be reduced with additional adjuvant chemotherapy cycles, as two courses of chemotherapy may be insufficient to eradicate micrometastases. Al-Sarraf et al. did include additional chemotherapy after concurrent radiation and chemotherapy with a lower rate of distant metastases. The results of this study are promising and support continued use of concurrent radiation therapy and chemotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma.


text:
This advice applies to England. Change country
Driving licences
This information applies to England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland
When you need a licence
You need a licence to drive most vehicles on a public road. A public road is one which is the responsibility of the local authority or the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions.
You do not need a licence to drive any vehicle on a private road. A private road is one to which the public does not have access, for example, a road on a private estate.
However, there are some vehicles which do not require a licence, either on a public or a private road. The most common examples of these are bicycles and horse drawn carts.
Age requirements for driving
Ages at which you can drive
The type of vehicle you can drive depends upon when you got your licence and your age. The rules changed about this on on January 19 2013. Your licence will tell you what you can drive.If you haven't passed your test yet, you can see the types of vehicle you can drive at different ages at www.gov.uk.
The type of vehicle the licence coversYour licence will tell you the types of vehicle you are allowed to drive. You can find out more about the categories at www.gov.uk.
Vans, lorries and passenger carrying vehicles
These vehicles do not require a special licence but do require you to have additional entitlements, for example to drive vans, lorries or passenger carrying vehicles. If you are unsure what type of licence you need you should consult the Driver Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), in Northern Ireland Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA), - for address, see under heading Further help.
Types of driving licence
A driving licence is either a 'provisional' licence or a 'full' licence.
Provisional driving licence
You must apply for a provisional licence if:-
- you have never had a full licence; or
- you are unable to show you are entitled to a full driving licence.
If you want to drive a motorbike, and are applying for a provisional licence, you should indicate this on the application form. If you already have a full licence covering groups B, C1, D1 or P (see under heading The type of vehicle the licence covers), you can use it automatically as a provisional licence for driving a motorbike.
Restrictions on the use of a provisional licence
A provisional licence has certain restrictions on its use. If you have a provisional licence to drive a motorbike:-
- you must not drive a motorbike that is above 125cc, in Northern Ireland, in addition, you must not drive a motorbike that is above 14.6bhp
- you must not drive a motorbike on a public road unless you have taken or are in the process of taking a compulsory basic training course
- you must not carry a passenger on the motorbike
- you must display 'L' plates ('D' plates in Wales) on the front and back of the vehicle
- you must not drive on a motorway.
If you have a provisional licence to drive a car or other vehicle (except a motorbike):-
- you must display 'L' plates on the front and back of the vehicle (or 'D' plates in Wales)
- you must not drive on a motorway
- if the vehicle has more than one seat, you must have someone with you whenever you are driving. The person supervising you must sit in the front passenger seat and be fit to drive the vehicle, for example, they must not be drunk. They must also be aged 21 or over and have had a full driving licence for at least three years.
However, if you have passed a driving test and are still waiting to receive a full licence you are not subject to the above restrictions.
Full driving licence
You are entitled to apply for a full driving licence if you have passed a driving test in the UK within the previous two years.
If you have a full driving licence issued outside of the UK, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands, see under heading Driving Abroad.
Restrictions on the use of a full licence
A full licence does not have any restrictions on its use other than those relating to:-
- the age of the driver (see under heading Age requirements for driving)
- supervision of learner drivers (see under heading Types of driving licence)
- the type of vehicle the licence covers (see under heading The type of vehicle the licence covers)
- the medical condition of the driver, for example, defective eyesight which cannot be corrected by glasses. You must tell the DVLA about any health condition that might affect your ability to drive
- in Northern Ireland, once you have passed your driving test, you must display 'R' plates at the front and back of the vehicle for one year. You must not exceed the speed of 45 mph.
How to apply for a driving licence
The DVLA stopped issuing paper counterpart licences on 8th June 2015. You should destroy your paper counterpart if it was issued together with a photocard licence. You should keep your paper licence if it was issued before photocards were introduced in 1998.
Find out more about the changes at gov.uk.
You can get information on how to apply for a driving licence at: www.gov.uk.
The licence is a credit card sized photocard which contains details of the categories of vehicles which you are entitled to drive. Photocard licences must be renewed every ten years to ensure the photograph remains up to date.
Paper licences issued before the introduction of photocard licences remain valid until they run out or the details on them need to be changed.
Penalty points and disqualifications are recorded online, along with the other details on your licence. You can check your own details, and share them with others – for example, when hiring a car.
Check your driving licence details online.
When you can start driving
If you have applied for a first provisional licence, you must not start driving until you receive the licence. This will usually be at least three weeks. If you have a medical condition, you may have to wait longer because more information may be needed before the licence is issued.
If you have had a licence before (and are still entitled to one) and are not applying for your first provisional licence and there are no medical problems, you are allowed to drive as soon as the application form reaches DVLA (DVA in Northern Ireland). You do not have to wait until you receive the licence.
Compulsory basic training for motorcycles and mopeds
All learner moped and motorcycle riders (except for those listed below) must complete a compulsory basic training (CBT) course.
These people do not have to complete a CBT course:-
- people who are learning to drive a motorbike and who have already obtained full moped entitlement as a result of passing a moped test on or after 1 December 1990
- people riding a moped with the full entitlement given automatically with a full car licence.
CBT courses are run by motorcycle training bodies approved by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency. They are listed under 'motorcycle training' in the Yellow pages or 'motorcycling instruction' in Thompson directories. For further information about CBT courses, contact the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency on 0115 936 6547.
If you have a provisional licence which is restricted to the use of motorbikes or scooters, this will last for an initial period of two years. If you have not passed the test by the end of two years you will have to wait one year before applying to renew the licence. During this year you will not be able to drive a motorbike or scooter.
Problems with sight
In order to get or keep a licence, a minimum eyesight standard must be met.
If you need glasses or contact lenses to meet the eyesight standard, you must always wear them when you drive. If you drive without wearing your lenses or glasses, you are committing an offence.
Disqualifications and endorsements
Disqualifications in England, Wales and Scotland
If you have been disqualified from driving, you can have a licence again either:-
- at the end of the disqualification period; or
- earlier if the disqualification is lifted.
If you intend to wait until the end of the disqualification period, you will usually receive a reminder from the DVLA eight weeks before the end of the disqualification period to apply for a new licence. If you do not receive a reminder, you should fill in form D1 available from the post office and send it to the DVLA.
You can apply to the court which dealt with your case to have the disqualification lifted if you have been disqualified for a minimum of two years. When you can apply, depends on the length of time for which you were disqualified.
For some driving offences a court can disqualify you and order that you be re-tested. If the offence is very serious the court can order that you are 'disqualified until test passed' and that you must take a double-practical driving test known as an 'extended driving test'. You will therefore need to apply for a provisional licence. A fee is payable for this.
The rules about when to apply to the court are complicated and someone who is thinking about this course of action should consult an experienced adviser – for example, at a Citizens Advice Bureau. To search for details of your nearest CAB, including those that can give advice by e-mail, click on nearest CAB.
Disqualifications in Northern Ireland
In Northern Ireland, if you were disqualified for less than 56 days, the DVA will endorse your licence and give it back to you. You will not need to renew your licence at the end of the disqualification period. If you're disqualified for 56 days or more you'll need to reapply for a licence before you can return to driving. For further information see the nidirect website www.nidirect.gov.uk.
You may incur penalty point endorsements on your licence for being convicted of committing certain driving offences. After a certain time you can apply to the DVLA on form D1 (DVA in Northern Ireland on form DL1) to have endorsements removed for a small charge. The time you will have to wait to have endorsements removed from your licence will vary according to the type of driving offence committed. This is usually four years, unless you have been convicted of a drinking and driving offence (in which case it is eleven years).
Revocation of driving licences on grounds of immigration status
You are not entitled to a driving licence if you are in the UK unlawfully. Your driving licence may be taken away if the DVLA believe that you don't have the legal right to be in the UK, for example, if you came to the UK illegally or have stayed in the UK illegally when you no longer have the right to be here.
Lost, stolen or defaced licences
If your licence is stolen or lost, you should tell the police as soon as possible. You should also apply for a duplicate licence using form D1 (DL1 in Northern Ireland). You can obtain this form from the post office (also at local vehicle licensing offices in Northern Ireland) and send it to the DVLA (DVA in Northern Ireland). There is a charge for obtaining a duplicate licence. Duplicate licences may also be obtained by phoning the DVLA – for telephone number, see under heading Further help.
If your licence is defaced or destroyed in some way so that the information on it is no longer clear, you have to apply for a duplicate licence (see above). You do not have to tell the police in this situation.
Change of name or address
Paper driving licences
If you hold a paper driving licence and you need to notify a change of name or address, you must complete a D1 application form, available from most post offices. Your paper licence will then be replaced with a photocard licence showing your new details.
Photocard driving licences
If you hold a photocard driving licence and you need to notify a change of address, you can:
- change your details online
- complete a D1 form and post it to the DVLA
- complete and return the change of address section on the card that was sent with your licence (if you received it after 8th June 2015)
If you need to notify a change of name, you should use form D1.
For both paper and photocard driving licences, documentary evidence of a change of name is required – for example, a birth certificate, passport or deed poll. You can continue to drive while you are waiting for the licence to be returned to you. The DVLA does not charge for changing your name and address details. However, you may be fined for not telling the DVLA about a change in your name or address.
In Northern Ireland you should apply to the DVA on form DL1
Driving abroad
Licences issued in another European Economic Area (EEA) country
If you have a full Great Britain (GB) or Northern Ireland driving licence, you can drive in any Economic European Area (EEA) country on this licence. An International Driving Permit is not required if you have a licence. Countries in the EEA are Liechtenstein, Iceland and Norway and the European Union countries.
You can exchange your GB or NI licence for one of the country in which you are living if you want to.
To find out which countries are in the European Union, see The European Union.
Driving outside the EEA
If you wish to drive in a country outside the EEA, you may need to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP). If you need an IDP you may apply by post to one of the motoring organisations or get one in person from a major post office. You do not have to be a member of the organisation. You can only be issued with an IDP if you have a full GB or Northern Ireland licence.
If you go to live permanently in another country you may be able to exchange your licence for a driving licence in that country. You should check with the driver licensing authority in the country in which you are going to live. The appropriate embassy may be able to provide this information.
Driving licences issued abroad
Licences issued in another European Economic Area (EEA) country
If you have a full and valid driving licence which has been issued in another EEA country (a 'Community licence'), you may be able to drive in the UK on this licence. You do not have to exchange it immediately for a GB licence. Provided the Community licence remains valid in the issuing country, and it is a licence to drive an ordinary car you can use it to drive here until you are 70, or for three years after you become resident, whichever is the longer period. If it is a 'vocational licence', for example, a licence to drive a minibus or bus, the rules are different.
However, if you want to, you can exchange your driving licence for a full GB or Northern Ireland licence. You should complete form D1 (DL1 in Northern Ireland) available from post offices or local licensing offices in Northern Ireland and send your own driving licence with the application form. A photocopy will not be accepted. A fee is payable.
To find out which countries are in the EEA, see Timeshare and holiday clubs.
Licences issued outside the EEA
If you have a full and valid driving licence which has been issued in another country other than an EEA country you can drive in the UK on this licence for twelve months.
If you intend to be resident in the UK beyond this period, you can exchange your licence for a full GB or NI licence if it is a British Forces Germany licence or if it was issued in:-
British Virgin Islands
Canada (GB licence only)
Falkland Islands
Hong Kong
New Zealand
Republic of Korea (excluding motorbike licences)
South Africa (GB licence only)
If you do not exchange your licence before the 12-month period runs out, you will not be able to drive. However, you have a period of five years from the date of last entry into the UK within which you can exchange your licence and then start driving again. If you do not exchange the licence within this period you will have to apply for a provisional licence in the normal way - see under heading How to apply for a driving licence.
If you have a driving licence issued in a country other than those listed above, you must take a UK driving test to obtain a full GB licence if you intend to drive after the initial twelve month period. You must obtain a GB provisional licence before booking a driving test.
Further help
You can get more information about driving licences at: www.gov.uk.
In Northern Ireland, you can get more information about driving licences from the nidirect website at: www.nidirect.gov.uk.


text:
FORT HOOD (November 14, 2012)--A ceremony Friday will mark the official U.S. citizenship of eight soldiers.
At 1 p.m. in the East Atrium of III Corps Headquarters, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service District 18 Director Mario Ortiz will administer the U.S. oath of allegiance.
A pre-taped congratulatory video will be shown of President Barack Obama welcoming the newly-approved citizens.


text:
Undergraduate students must attempt the WPE after they complete 30 units and before they complete 50 units. Transfer students must attempt the WPE in their first semester in residence at CSULB. All undergraduate students are expected to satisfy the GWAR within 1 year (i.e., two semesters) of their first WPE attempt and must satisfy the requirement to graduate.
Graduate and certificate program students are required to satisfy the GWAR, and graduate students must complete the requirement before advancement to candidacy. Graduate student have several options for satisfying the GWAR. Graduate students who have previously (1) received a degree from an accredited college or university in the United States; or (2) received a degree from an accredited non-US institution located in a country where English is a primary language of communication; or (3) received a score of 4 or higher on the analytical writing portion of the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) have satisfied the GWAR. Graduate students who have graduated from a CSU have satisfied the GWAR and are not required to complete additional assessment.
Graduate students who have not satisfied the requirement through one of the provisions above have two options. They may either attempt the WPE during their first semester at CSULB or they may self-place directly in a GWAR pathway without first taking the WPE. To self-place into an appropriate GWAR pathway, graduate students must first meet with a GWAR Advisor who will assess their English writing skills and issue a permit for enrollment in the appropriate GWAR course. Graduate students cannot enroll in a GWAR course without first receiving a permit from a GWAR Advisor.
Students who receive a score of 4 or higher on the analytical writing test of the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) may submit their score to satisfy the GWAR. A copy of the official score report should be submitted to Enrollment Services (123 Brotman Hall) or to Testing, Evaluation & Assessment (BH-216). Students who are off-campus or reside outside the United States may contact the GWAR coordinator for more information.
Under certain circumstances, students may request 2 hours ("extended time") to complete the WPE. This option is primarily intended for students who are non-native English speakers who will benefit from having more than 75 minutes to complete the exam. To request extended time, download the Extended Time Application Form, complete the form, and submit it to Testing, Evaluation & Assessment (216 Brotman Hall) by the extended time deadline.
Based on their scores on their first WPE attempt, students are required to follow an appropriate GWAR pathway. Students who fail to comply promptly will have registration holds placed on their records. Students whose 1st WPE attempt was prior to Fall 2010 are urged to follow the appropriate pathway based on their highest WPE score.
WPE score notices include instructions to comply with one of the following pathways:
WPE Scores of 11 or Higher
Students with scores of 11 or higher have satisfied the GWAR. No further assessment is required.
WPE Scores of 8, 9 or10
Students with scores of 8, 9 or 10 should enroll in an appropriate GWAR course in the following semester and submit a portfolio for assessment. Students who have questions about their next step or need help selecting an appropriate GWAR course can schedule an appointment with a GWAR advisor in the University Center for Undergraduate Advising. Students are not permitted to attempt the WPE more than one time.
WPE Scores of 7 or Lower
Students who score 7 or lower are required to enroll in English 301A in the following semester. English 301A is not a GWAR portfolio course but will help students improve their writing skills to successfully complete a GWAR portfolio course. Following completion of English 301A, students are required to enroll in a GWAR course in the following semester and submit a portfolio for assessment.
Designated sections of English 301B are offered through the College of Continuing and Professional Education (CCPE) for international students and students who are returning to complete degrees. International students and returning students should contact Cynthia Pastrana for permits and registration instructions. Current schedules for special sections are posted at GWAR Courses.
The GWAR Coordinator and GWAR advisors are located in the University Center for Undergraduate Advising at 103 Horn Center. For more information about the GWAR program or to schedule an appointment with a GWAR advisor, contact email@example.com or call 562-985-7378.


text:
Robinson Cano, Mariners finalize huge contract
By TIM BOOTH AP Sports Writer
Not a subscriber? You can purchase a single-day subscription for only $0.75 to read this and access all of our content and our E-Edition. CLICK HERE purchase a single day subscription.
Become an electronic subscriber to the Republican-American for only $8 a month. CLICK HERE.


text:
The One-Color, Instant-Glam Trick For Your Bath
Towels, toilets, and toothbrushes—among other bath staples—are turning up in sophisticated black
Clockwise from top left: Jason Wu shower by Brizo; Black Cube candle by Acqua de Parma at Neiman Marcus; Muse toilet in Black by Icera; Black soap by Maria Evora at Taigan; DiamondClean Rechargable Sonic toothbrush by Philips Sonicare; Burgundy Black Dahlia; 802-Gram Turkish bath towel in Onyx by Restoration Hardware.
While the majority of "dream bathroom" Pinterest boards revolve around bright white bathrooms, we're seeing an influx of bath fixtures and accessories in deep, glamorous black. Even toothbrushes are getting in on the game. Looking to bring the look home? Swap out one of the white pieces in your bath for any of these key picks, or go for drama and try all 7.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below


text:
Text Size:
Diabetes: Awareness guide
POSTED: 10:09 AM Jan 29 2013 UPDATED: 4:26 PM Feb 20 2013
Doctors have a new set of guidelines when treating children diagnosed with type II diabetes. Find out all of the basics about diabetes here.
The views expressed are not those of this site, this station or its affiliated companies. By posting your comments you agree to accept our terms of use.


text:
|Size & Form
High Absorption Magnesium contains elemental magnesium chelated with the amino acids glycine and lysine. It is a "di-peptide" chelate, which means that each magnesium atom is chelated with two amino acid molecules. It has a low molecular weight of 324 daltons, which is ideal for optimum absorption. Bioperine® is a patented herbal extract that enhances nutrient absorption.
As an essential dietary mineral, magnesium plays many important roles, including:
Acts as a co-factor for metabolic enzymes.*
Assists energy production in cells.*
Supports nerve and muscle function.*
Helps maintain a normal, regular heartbeat.*
Supports bone density.*
Magnesium is a dietary mineral with a wide array of biological activities in the body. Magnesium participates in numerous life-essential processes that occur both inside and outside cells. Magnesium deficiency impacts normal physiologic function on many levels. Adequate magnesium is a fundamental requirement for optimum function of the cardiovascular system, the nervous system and skeletal muscle, as well as the uterus and GI tract. Magnesium deficiency can affect health of the heart, bones and blood vessels and alter blood sugar balance [1].
The average person living in a modern country today very likely consumes less than the optimum amount of magnesium [2]. An abundance of data collected over the last two decades shows a consistent pattern of low magnesium intake in the U.S. This pattern cuts a wide swath across various age-sex groups. The USDAs Nationwide Food Consumption Survey found that a majority of Americans consumed less than the recommended daily magnesium intake [3]. Twelve age-sex groups were studied and this low magnesium intake was true for all groups except 0 to 5 year olds.
An analysis of the nutrient content of the diets of 7,810 individuals age four and above included magnesium among several nutrients where the amounts supplied by the average diet "were not sufficient to meet recommended standards" [4]. The FDAs Total Diet study examined the intakes of eleven minerals, including magnesium, among eight age-sex groups. Data was collected four times yearly from 1982 to 1984. Levels of magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc and copper were low for most age-sex groups [5]. Surveys conducted in Europe and in other parts of North America paint a similar picture. Loss of magnesium during food processing is one explanation for this global lack of adequate dietary magnesium [6].
In particular, the elderly may be susceptible to magnesium deficiency for a variety of reasons, including inadequate magnesium intake, poor absorption due to impaired gastrointestinal function and use of drugs such as diuretics that deplete magnesium from the body [7]. It has recently been theorized that magnesium deficiency may contribute to accelerated aging, through effects on the cardiovascular and nervous systems, as well as muscles and the kidneys [8].
Women who take both synthetic estrogen and calcium supplements may be at risk for low blood levels of magnesium [9]. Estrogen promotes the transfer of magnesium from blood to softtissues. Low blood magnesium may result if the ratio of calcium to magnesium intake exceeds 4 to 1. Magnesium supplementation is thus advisable for women taking estrogen and calcium.
Young adults are not immune to magnesium deficiency. The University of Californias Bogalusa Heart Study collected nutritional data from a cross-sectional sample of 504 young adults between age 19 and 28 [10]. The reported intake of magnesium, along with several other minerals and vitamins, was below the RDA.
Glycine is a highly effective mineral chelator. This is because it is a low-molecular-weight amino acid, hence is easily transported across the intestinal membrane. A study conducted at Weber State University found this particular magnesium glycinate was absorbed up to four times more effectively than typical magnesium supplements.
The average adult body contains anywhere from about 21 to 28 grams of magnesium. Approximately 60 percent of the bodys magnesium supply is stored in bone. Soft tissue, such as skeletal muscle, contains 38%, leaving only about 1 to 2% of the total body magnesium content in blood plasma and red blood cells. Magnesium in the body may be bound either to proteins or "anions" (negatively charged substances.) About 55% of the bodys magnesium content is in the "ionic" form, which means it carries an electrical charge. Magnesium ions are "cations," ions that carry a positive charge. In its charged state, magnesium functions as one of the mineral "electrolytes."
Magnesium works as a "co-factor" for over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. Metabolism uses a phosphate containing molecule called "ATP" as its energy source. Magnesium is required for all reactions involving ATP [11]. ATP supplies the energy for physical activity, by releasing energy stored in "phosphate bonds".
Skeletal and heart muscle use up large amounts of ATP. The energy for muscle contraction is released when one of ATPs phosphate bonds is broken, in a reaction that produces ADP. Phosphate is added back to ADP, re-forming ATP. ATP also powers the cellular "calcium pump" which allows muscle cells to relax. Because it participates in these ATP-controlled processes, magnesium is vitally important for muscle contraction and relaxation. By controlling the flow of sodium, potassium and calcium in and out of cells, magnesium regulates the function of nerves as well as muscles [12].
Magnesiums importance for heart health is widely recognized. The heart is the only muscle in the body that generates its own electrical impulses. Through its influence on the hearts electrical conduction system, magnesium is essential for maintenance of a smooth, regular heartbeat [13]. Magnesium appears to help the heart resist the effects of systemic stress. Magnesium deficiency aggravates cardiac damage due to acute systemic stress (such as caused by infection or trauma), while magnesium supplementation protects the heart against stress [14]. This has been found true even in the absence of an actual magnesium deficit in the body.
Evidence suggests that magnesium may help support mineral bone density in elderly women. In a two-year open, controlled trial, 22 out of a group of 31 postmenopausal women who took daily magnesium supplements showed gains in bone density. A control group of 23 women who declined taking the supplements had decreases in bone density [15]. The dietary intakes of magnesium, potassium, fruit and vegetables are associated with increased bone density in elderly women and men [16]. In an interesting animal study, rats were fed diets with either high or low levels of magnesium. Compared to the high magnesium-fed rats, bone strength and magnesium content of bone decreased in the low-magnesium rats, even though these rats showed no visible signs of magnesium deficiency [17]. While this finding may or may not apply to humans, it raises the possibility that diets supplying low magnesium intakes may contribute to weakening of bone in the elderly.
Mineral absorption occurs mainly in the small intestine. Like any mineral, magnesium may be absorbed as an "ion," a mineral in its elemental state that carries an electric charge. Mineral ions cross the intestinal membrane either through "active transport" by a protein carrier imbedded in the cells lining the membrane inner wall, or by simple diffusion. The magnesium in mineral salts is absorbed in ionic form. However, absorption of ionic minerals can be compromised by any number of factors, including: 1) Low solubility of the starting salt, which inhibits release of the mineral ion, and 2) Binding of the released ion to naturally occurring dietary factors such as phytates, fats and other minerals that form indigestible mineral complexes [18].
A second absorption mechanism has been discovered for minerals. Experiments have shown that minerals chemically bonded to amino acids (building blocks of protein) are absorbed differently from mineral ions. This has given rise to the introduction of "chelated" minerals as dietary supplements. Mineral amino acid chelates consist of a single atom of elemental mineral that is surrounded by two or more amino acid molecules in a stable, ring-like structure.
Unlike mineral salts, which must be digested by stomach acid before the desired mineral portion can be released and absorbed, mineral chelates are not broken down in the stomach or intestines. Instead, chelates cross the intestinal wall intact, carrying the mineral tightly bound and hidden within the amino acid ring. The mineral is then released into the bloodstream for use by the body.
Research by pioneers in the field of mineral chelation and human nutrition indicates that the best-absorbed chelates consist of one mineral atom chelated with two amino acids. This form of chelate is called a "di-peptide." Compared to other chelates, di-peptides have the ideal chemical attributes for optimum absorption [19]. Dipeptide chelates demonstrate superior absorption compared to mineral salts. For example, a magnesium di-peptide chelate was shown to be four times better absorbed than magnesium oxide [20].
Consumer Alert! Not all "amino acid chelates" are true chelates. In order for a mineral supplement to qualify as a genuine chelate, it must be carefully processed to ensure the mineral is chemically bonded to the amino acids in a stable molecule with the right characteristics. The magnesium bis-glycinate/lysinate in High Absorption Magnesium is a genuine di-peptide chelate ("bis" means "two"). It has a molecular weight of 324 daltons, considerably lower than the upper limit of 800 daltons stated in the definition of "mineral amino acid chelates" adopted by the National Nutritional Foods Association in 1996 [21].
Bioperine® is a natural extract derived from black pepper that increases nutrient absorption.* Preliminary trials on humans have shown significant increases in the absorption of nutrients consumed along with Bioperine® [22].
Doctor's Best1120 Calle CordilleraSuite 101, San Clemente, CA 92673
phone 800-333-6977 fax: 949-498-3952 website: www.drbvitamins.com
©Doctors Best, Inc.
Revised 03/03
Home | Contact Us | Ordering Info | Privacy Policy | 105% Guarantee | Pay It Forward (5% Earned on Every Order) | Customer Referral Program | Condition/Goal |
Categories | Brands | 0-9 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z | Alcat Food Sensitivity Tests
*Statements on this site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products on this site are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Prices are subject to change at anytime and without notice. The majority of the product information has been reprinted from the manufacturer.


text:
I'm pretty much a Linux beginner, but this question has been on my mind. What's the simplest, most secure way to connect to my computer at home from work or from the library, &c? I'm running Mint 14. I'd like to connect from a Win or Linux setup.
If this has already been asked, please delete this question.
ALSO is there an option to connect if you can't install software on the computer you're connecting from? Is there a browser solution?


text:
Browse Piazza Mazda of West Chester's Inventory of Used Mazda & Pre-Owned Cars in West Chester, PA | Serving Broomall & Springfield, PA
At Piazza Mazda of West Chester we stock an extensive inventory of used cars, trucks, SUV's and vans. With some of the most competitive prices on used cars in West Chester and nearby Philadelphia, Broomall, Springfield and Drexel Hill, Piazza Mazda can find a used car that fits within your budget range. Our skilled auto repair technicians perform a detailed inspection on every used car at Piazza Mazda of West Chester. Test drive a used car at our dealership, located at 1340 Wilmington Pike, West Chester, PA 19382, and drive away in a pre-owned vehicle which satisfies all of your needs. We offer the used Mazda CX-7, used CX-9, used Mazda3, used Mazda5, used Miata MX-5 as well as a huge selection of various other used cars and trucks.
Take a look at what we have currently on our lot. You can use one of our smartbrowser tools below to help make your decision easier. If you have any trouble finding the vehicle you are looking for, please try our CarFinder service and we'll find it for you!
Call For Special Internet Pricing: 888-318-2822


text:
I am a very large man - I am 6'4" and weigh 450 pounds (I've lost a 100 pounds in the last year). I bike or walk everyday, (and swim laps occasionally) but want to add another sport to my exercise routine. I live in a gated community with 5 lakes - so I have a lot of places to go just outside my door. Does anyone know of a good resource to find a kayak or paddle board for large people? Are you a large person already been down this path? I really haven't seen anything out there - I assume most people my size really don't do such things - but I can swim over a mile nonstop now so I have no fear of getting out on the water.
I think a sit-on-top tandem kayak might work; something like this:
The open design means there is no cramped compartment to fit into. This particular tandem claims a capacity of 500 pounds. I assume some modification would be required to make it a centered single seat.
Actually, as it is apparently set up to seat three people there may be a natural middle position. Judge for yourself:
I am also a paddler on the heavy side. You might check out the 14 foot Native Watercraft Ultimate. Is comes as a tandem, but a single seat can be mounted in the middle and the other removed. It is very stable and pretty agile for its size and hull shape. It is rated to 450 pounds.
You might also look at the 14ft versions of the wilderness system tarpon and lingo models. Both paddle nicely and are very high quality boats. I suggest them highly.
If there is an independent dealer in your area you should give them a call and ask if they will let you demo a few boats. Most good shops will. Stay away from the chain store boats.
Malibu x-factor, etc. I clock in at 395--no problem. They have several high capacity boats.
I'm a fairly heavy man myself though not quite as tall. Weight has always been my problems with recreation boats. You might want to look at sport canoes. They are also open designs but can typically hold more weight than a kayak.


text:
In celebration of Fantasy Football Week in America presented by Courtyard Marriott -- Aug. 26-Sept. 4 -- USA TODAY Sports is presenting 10 days' worth of fantasy tips to help make 2013 your championship season. For rankings, chats, videos, advice, analysis and more, go to fantasyweek.usatoday.com. Today: Getting started.
Lack of planning will constitute an emergency during your fantasy football draft, guaranteed. The draft is all about minimizing risk and giving yourself the best chance to succeed. You'll also want a solid list of late-round picks that offer the most possible upside/breakout potential.
Minimizing risk
As you prepare to draft, ask yourself how risky each player is, what history has told us about him, and does he increase your chances of winning. Apply these three questions to Houston Texans running back Arian Foster, who's been taken with the second overall pick in many drafts.
How risky is Foster? Recovering from calf and back injuries since May and just recently coming off the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, there's considerable risk. What has history told us about Foster? His yards per carry has dropped from 4.9 in 2010 to 4.4 in 2011 and 4.0 in 2012. This type of regression isn't favorable. Does he increase your chances of winning? It's not that you shouldn't draft Foster, just don't take him at No. 2 when healthier players with better trend lines exist.
Other players to avoid at their current ADP include wide receivers Sidney Rice and Wes Welker. Rice is being drafted ahead of Seattle Seahawks teammate Golden Tate, who's a superior talent and not near as injury prone. Welker is being taken before several true No. 1 wide receivers. He's valuable, but not that valuable.
CHAT: FantasyKnuckleheads' Greg Brosh - Monday, noon ET
Mid- to late-round picks
Breakout players and sleepers are plentiful in the later rounds. Just look for the following attributes:
• Scheme change from run heavy / pass friendly. (Michael Floyd, Jordan Cameron)
• New player in a historically productive position within the same scheme. (Shane Vereen, Cameron)
• Opportunity to become the No. 1. (Daryl Richardson, Cameron)
Many fantasy owners waste a pick on a backup running back such as the Baltimore Ravens' Bernard Pierce, when Danny Woodhead of the San Diego Chargers has more potential to be a contributor on a weekly basis. This goes back to minimizing risk and asking yourself, "How much does this player increase my chances of winning?"
Kurt Turner writes for FantasyKnuckleheads.com, a USA TODAY Sports Digital Property. Follow him on Twitter @_Knuckleheads.


text:
Sunday, January 29, 2012
A Final Pitch
32 comments:
I've purchased the audio version. I plan to purchase the printed copy to read just in case there might be a little tidbit that I missed because the dogs were barking or my husband had the audacity to speak to me while I was listening :) I also requested Amazon notify your publisher that I would appreciate a Kindle version.
Looking forward to your next exiting novel.
- January 29, 2012 at 3:19 AM
- John McFetridge said...
For the research I'm doing now I spent some time with a man who was on the bomb squad in Montreal in the 60s and 70s. He told me that in the late 60s he was sent to train with the cops in Belfast but it wasn't much use. The bombs being planted in Montreal were vert simple, Anarchist Cookbook bombs; some dynamite, detonator and alarm clock - cut the wires and that's it. But, he said, the bombs in Belfast were booby trapped and designed for maximum damage and the designs were always changing to stay ahead of the bomb squad.
There's no doubt Belfast was different.
Still, a few more posts about The Cold Cold Ground would be okay.
- January 29, 2012 at 3:26 AM
I just finished reading the Kndle version of Cold Cold Ground (available in the US). Absolutely great read, and very much looking forward to hearing more from Sean Duffy. If you've read anything else by Adrian, you will like this; if you've never (perish the thought) read him, this is a great place to start.
It was mentioned in an earlier post that US publishers were balking in part because 'Mericans didn't want to read about anything as complicated or morally confusing as the Troubles. If anything, Cold Cold Ground makes me want to learn more about this bit of history.
I have, though, been remiss in writing my reviews, which I'll try to get done this weekend. Although Amamzon has it at 5 stars!
- January 29, 2012 at 4:39 AM
- Ricky said...
Sounds very interesting.
- January 29, 2012 at 5:34 AM
I have just finished Cold Cold Ground and enjoyed it immensely, even more than the Dead trilogy, which is saying a lot. At the end of the kindle edition is a taster and promotion of the sequel 'I hear the sirens in the street', which I am looking forward to.
- January 29, 2012 at 5:54 AM
- swooperman said...
I have a strong interest in the Ireland of the CCG era as it was the era I grew up in, although in Birmingham but those with a memory will recall it was one of the many English places that were a bit too close to Ireland for comfort. I agree that it is a very hard place to understand, as are a lot of places but NI especially so. My recent finished novel doing the rounds & my current one both feature exiled Northern Irishmen of the era, & despite my research I felt I had to have them both proofread by two lads that I know off a gambling forum that I help run. One is a native of the area, growing up in the said era, & the other served there in the bomb squad in the '80's!! Best not do a meet up lol, but it shows the importance of background, particularly for a place you havent lived in, which is why they're exiled.
- January 29, 2012 at 6:56 AM
- speedskater42k said...
Adrian, you've got a great book w/ TCCG. I've been talking it up among my friends/acquaintances as much as I can. I really hope you're successful.
I don't understand the book publishing industry. The way that TCCG isn't being published in the US is yet one more example of what makes no sense.
You may recall that I've urged you to come to the Tucson Festival of Books. I'd be so great to have you attend! It's coming up in mid-March. http://tucsonfestivalofbooks.org/
Maybe if you come to that festival, a groundswell of TCCG fans will push your book to the heights it deserves!
- January 29, 2012 at 7:23 AM
Thanks for TCCG, and for the essay about your childhood. I'm sorry about what you went through, and the private US money that helped keep the whole ordeal going.
- January 29, 2012 at 9:18 AM
- seana said...
I think even non-crime fiction writers would like The Cold, Cold Ground. It is really the milieu that raises it a cut above.
I know that about 98% of the readers of this blog only check in here to see what the Irish poem of the month will be, but even they should check out TCCG on poetic grounds.
- January 29, 2012 at 1:41 PM
Peter, Thanks for mentioning that you purchased the Kindle version in the US. Oddly, when I searched the Kindle store for "Cold Cold Ground" on Amazon I found the paperback version. The only other format offered there was audible. The Kindle version wasn't listed. When I Google "Cold Cold Ground Kindle" I find an Amazon link that goes to the Kindle version. Evidently a glitch somewhere.
- January 30, 2012 at 4:57 AM
A PS re US Kindle version: I didn't look closely enough when I eventually found Amazon's listing for the Kindle version. It says "not currently available".
- January 30, 2012 at 5:02 AM
I am really enjoying A Cold, Cold Ground and hope to do the book justice in a review on my own blog next week. I really like Sean and hope this is the start of a new series for him? Possibly? Thanks!
- January 30, 2012 at 9:56 AM
- Sheiler said...
I'm not sure I read much crime fiction if at all before coming to this blog. And now I'm all agog. I downloaded the TCCG on audible because I love the narrator and because I need something to listen to while I walk the slowest dog in the world. Adrian, I love your description of the helicopters' lights circling and meeting the others. I loved the language describing rigor mortis (can't recall it right now). And I love learning about Northern Ireland that is so foreign to me, and so much going on not so long ago. jesus. I can't believe Boston, ok now that it's not super duper Irish so much now, would not go for this. Paging Dorchester and Southie! Paging Ben Affleck ... or something. Or come to think of st paddy's days I'd been to in Chicago. Paging the windy city.
I'll post a review once I've finished it on audible.
- January 30, 2012 at 12:22 PM
I've told all my friends about TCCG ( a good few of them have bought it), and stuck my review on a couple of heavy traffic forums I frequent.
Hope the book gets the sales it deserves.
- January 30, 2012 at 9:29 PM
- lil Gluckstern said...
You got a good review from a fellow Australian on 4MA which is frequented by fans and authors. I piggy backed on to her review. You might check out the site. It has a large readership as does Dorothy L, which is another site for fans and writers. I can't talk enough about your book, telling people it's available on Kindle and Audible.
- January 31, 2012 at 8:54 AM
- adrian mckinty said...
BIG THANK YOU TO EVERYONE FOR COMMENTING. I'm still out of town. Kind of sidetracked down in the Mornington Peninsula south of Melbourne.
Really beautiful down here: empty beaches, vineyards, big waves, surfers, empty roads. I imagine northern California was like this in the 50's.
The only book I could find set in Mornington is Nevil Shute's On The Beach which is about the end of the world and isn't bad so far.
- January 31, 2012 at 6:12 PM
When is 'I hear the sirens in the street' due to be published in the UK or on kindle?
- January 31, 2012 at 8:13 PM
Nottingham Waterstones voted CCG Book of the Month. I tried to put a review on Waterstones website but couldn't see where to do it.
- February 1, 2012 at 1:06 AM
Haven't checked in on your blog in a while and I am excited to see that not only do you have a new book out, but it's the first of a trilogy! That's a lot too look forward to.
- February 1, 2012 at 5:08 AM
Hi again, sorry I missed the part about the trilogy (to answer my own question from earlier) in your post and I did finish The Cold, Cold Ground and thought it excellent. Looking forward to the next two books in the series!
- February 2, 2012 at 3:17 AM
Adrian - as a contribution to your last CCG post I can only say that it's the only crime novel in the last year to come close to Peter Tenple's Truth - so there must be something in the Melbourne air!! I'm now into the Dead Trilogy & recommend any readers picking up on this post to get into Micheal Forsyth while they wait for Duffy2
- February 6, 2012 at 9:30 AM
Ordered "The Cold Cold Ground" from a UK bookstore and tore through it as soon as it arrived here on my doorstep in the States. Loved it, as I do all your adult fiction which I purchase faithfully with each new release ever since meeting you at a signing for "Dead I Well May Be" years ago. Must say setting it in 80s era Carrickfergus and Belfast added a new dimension and I'm really looking forward to the next two in the trilogy. Now, if we could only get your books more readily available in U.S. bookstores -- I recommend you constantly to friends here, but many of your titles are getting harder to find here if, like me, you still like reading actual books with actual paper pages. Keep up the great work!!!
- February 10, 2012 at 2:55 PM
Oh -- and I also did my part and added a glowing review for you on the Amazon US website.
- February 10, 2012 at 3:14 PM
- adrian mckinty said...
Yup it doesn't look like any US publishers are biting on this one I'm afraid. They say that "there will no market for it".
Anyway I'm really glad you got it and liked, sorry about the all the hoops you had to jump through.
And of course I really appreciate the review!
- February 10, 2012 at 5:01 PM
No worries, Adrian. Your books are always worth the hoops!!
- February 12, 2012 at 2:09 AM
- Queens Park Pete said...
Just read the Kindle version of this. Best £1.29 spent in a while, will certainly be seeking out your backlist.
Please don't let ITV do a crappy version of it. Not that UK TV audiences get to see portraits of Norn Ireland too often- Last one I remember was a Play for Today in about 1978 with the big guy out of Z Cars.
- February 14, 2012 at 9:15 AM
- adrian mckinty said...
Glad you liked it. Leave a review s'where if you can be arsed. If not no sweat.
- February 14, 2012 at 4:36 PM
- Queens Park Pete said...
I am certainly pressing all my friends into trying it,and will spread the online word.
Bemused to hear how the US publishers have been less than keen.
- February 17, 2012 at 8:37 AM
- adrian mckinty said...
Its not so surprising. In the US they want their Ireland to be spinisters riding cast iron bicycles through the morning mist while charming terrorists plot to overthrow the evil Brits from haystacks. The last thing they want to hear is that the situation was actually kind of complex
- February 17, 2012 at 8:54 AM
- lil Gluckstern said...
At the risk of annoying some of my American compatriots, complex doesn't sell well here. Sure, I love Irish cliffs and dogs running along a couple riding horses, and casting shy glances at each, but I do tire of them. What is interesting is that there is an audience for these complicated books set in Ireland, or South Africa. The publishers are not necessarily disposed to taking a smaller profit. Which is why I champion e-books. At least that makes the book available here. Am I just blowing smoke here?
- February 17, 2012 at 9:10 AM
- adrian mckinty said...
The problem is that the big publishers still get their authors access to big media. And without some kind of media attention your book basically dies. I'm still looking for a US publisher but despite the reviews no one seems to think there could be a market for the book. I think they're wrong.
- February 17, 2012 at 9:16 AM
- seana said...
They are wrong.
- February 17, 2012 at 2:01 PM


text:
I am in the progress of building a website for a client of mine and something worries me. Basicly, the client wants a google like site ( search - display results ) just for companies ( like a phonebook directory of companies ). I have built the website with only one page ( front page ) which also provides the search results.
What worries me is how can that site rank on search engines? Would the content on the front page should be suffice for ranking? Can you think of any other problems I might have from using this type of system?


text:
I have come to realize that a lot of mental energy and focus is wasted on the intake, filtering, and processing of what ends up considered completely useless sensory input. Things like various types of extractions, emails, people trying to sell you stuff on pretext of trying to help, billboard signs, junk mail, B.S. bingo, verbose communicators, false alerts, paranoia propaganda and the list goes on in the hyper age of information we live in. Heck, maybe even this post is irrelevant and you just wasted 10-15 sec (I hope not).
I have also come to realize that my mental energy and attention are very finite and limited -- therefore a second wasted on processing useless stimuli is a second never to be recovered. I want to improve my ability to discern deserving targets of attention focus. Part of the reason is that, due to some cognitive patterns, I easily fall into sensory overload state (if there is too much auditory or visual input to be processed, I quickly run out of RAM and become confused and disoriented -- but if the amounts of data are reasonable, I do fine). So I would like to develop internal heuristics to weed out external garbage that comes to me and retain good stuff as much as possible.
Of course, such an approach, if carelessly applied can be hazardous to your executive functioning, work, relationships, even life. E.g. you just decide you can take paying attention to only two other vehicles on the road will likely get you killed. So I am looking for some scientific studies how to optimize and streamline your cognitive functioning by safely and carefully "cutting corners" in your sensory intake.
Much appreciated