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Just moved up to a Fanatic Ultra Cat - have questions
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10th September 2009, 09:53 PM
Join Date: Aug 2006
Location: Dallas, Texas USA
Posts: 799
Hi Denny,
I sailed and raced long boards for many years (Mistral Superlight, F2 Lightening, Mistral Equipe II XR). I am familiar with the Ultra Cat, but have never sailed one.
Mast foot placement - While learning (tacking & jibing), keeping it in the center is generally a good idea. For pointing (sailing close to the wind), the track should be all the way forward. However, your weight may play a role and you may have to move it back a little if the nose of board rides too low. This is the setting in both light and strong winds.
Sailing (not planing) deep downwind, keep the track forward. The only time you put the track all the way back is when you have enough wind and sail to plane with good speed and you are in the foot straps. If running deep down wind and planing, but not in the foot straps, the track should be in the middle. The idea for downwind sailing is to keep the board flat on the water. If you sink the tail, you will slow down, that's why the track should be forward, to keep you in the center of the board, and the board flat.
With your weight, you will need to experiment some, and there may be some variations to what I have said.
The centerboard - Upwind - always all the way down in any wind, except if super overpowered and the board starts to "turtle" or roll over, kick the dagger board up 1/3.
Beam reach - non planing conditions - all the way down
Beam reach - just planing - half way down
Beam reach - planing in the straps - all the way up
Full reach or down wind - non planing - all the way down for stability or half way up for more speed, but less stability.
Full reach or down wind - just planing conditions - all the way up. If the board feels pretty tippy, put the dagger board down 1/3 - 1/2 down
Full reach or down wind - planing conditions - all the way up.
Hope this helps.
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Home Depot is having a Black Friday in Spring Sale -- They've got Cyprus Mulch - 2 cubic feet bag for $1.12 limit 20 per customer while supplies last. This has been going on for a day so call your location before you head over to make sure they have enough.
Go here --
Marvin's Saturday morning sale -- They have top soil for 99
cents a bag Saturday morning from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. That's about 50
cents a bag savings in some cases.
Go here.
Winkflash has a great
deal for an Easter or Mother's day gift. Get an 8x10 gallery wrapped
canvas for $6.99 shipped. You'll need to use the code MYFREECANVAS at
checkout to get the deal. It ends April 4. So take a nice spring
picture this weekend and create a www.winkflash.com account and get your deal.
Go here

subset: commoncrawl


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I'll keep my question simple: why is it that on some airliners there is no window seat next to the plug-type overwing emergency exit, while on others (of the same type!) there is? This can commonly be seen on narrowbodies, such as the A320 family, 737s etc.
My best guess was that it had to do with the seats not lining up with the exit in certain configurations, and therefore having to remove the closest seat so that the seatback won't block the exit. BUT, looking at Boeing schematics of interior arrangements of the 737 (from their Airport Planning series) did not seem to confirm this.


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by Anonymous on November 18, 2007
Good job smart parts my ion is suped up all the way but has your dentents and they work just fine.
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Research Workshop: Who's Citing Whom?
- 302 Russell
- http://library.tc.columbia.edu/
Why find highly cited articles and authors? Is it helpful to see who has cited you or is writing on the same topic? Or are you just curious about the most cited scholarly journals with a view to publishing your own?
Then come to Who's Citing Whom? on Thursday, April 18th, and find out. To discover your preferences in using citation tools, we'll explore key citation indices: ISI Web of Knowledge, Scopus, and also Google Scholar.
Since space is limited, please rsvp with your interest and via online support no later than Tuesday, April 16th.
Where: 302 Russell
Individuals with disabilities are invited to request reasonable accommodations including, but not limited to sign language interpretation, Braille or large print materials, and a campus map of accessible features. Address these requests to the Office of Access and Services for Individuals with Disabilities at (212) 678-3689, email@example.com, or Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services at (212) 678-3853 V/TTY.
- Jennifer Govan
- 678-3022


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FLINT, Michigan — An investment group has confirmed its interest in purchasing the Michigan School for the Deaf campus and building new schools there for both MSD and Powers Catholic High School.
Ridgway White of the Flint-based development group Lurvey White Ventures said that if all the pieces come together, the move would result in Powers owning a part of the property and the Michigan School for the Deaf leasing another section, including a new state-of-the-art building catering to the needs of deaf and disabled students.
"They both would identify with the campus equally," White said.
Powers officials have not yet confirmed or denied involvement in the plan.
"If Powers constituents support their involvement, then it would be a nice marriage," White said.
"We're looking to start construction at the beginning of next year if everything gelled, if all the concepts come together. There's a lot to figure out."
White hopes to have a finalized plan by Sept. 17.
The proposal would have to be approved by the state legislature before the sale would be completed and construction would begin.
White said the price for the campus is still being negotiated.
"We want this thing to succeed," White said. "They (MSD) had over $30 million in deferred maintenence and we could save the state money by building them a new school."
Under the proposal, MSD's Fay Hall, Gilbert Hall and Superintendents Cottage would be renovated to historic standards while other structures including the current academic and cafeteria buildings would be demolished.
The new MSD would be built with top-notch technology and accessibility,White said.
"We view this as an opportunity to construct a facility that would be the best practice... a model of how to educate both deaf kids and kids with multiple disabilities in the 21st century," he said.


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BIRMINGHAM, Alabama - All eyes are on UAB's defense as the Blazers have opened public spring practices.
It's no secret that the defense underperformed last year, and that's a focal point of improvement as the Blazers head into head coach Garrick McGee's second spring and second season.
UAB was 86th nationally (426.8 yards per game allowed) in a 3-9 season last year. That mark was seventh among 12 Conference USA teams in a high-scoring league. Three teams that finished ahead of UAB (UCF, Memphis and SMU) depart for (what was) the Big East next year, though new Conference USA teams Florida Atlantic, Florida International, UTSA and North Texas finished ahead of UAB last year.
Another new CUSA team, Louisiana Tech, was dead last by a long shot nationally at 526 yards per game allowed.
The Blazers matched up offensively against some better CUSA teams, losing by a touchdown in games to champion Tulsa (49-42) and bowl team East Carolina (42-35). The 55-45 loss to Tulane and 46-9 loss to Memphis were low points, though UAB held Marshall to 200 yards below its average (allowing just 337) in a 38-31 win.
"They have a lot of pride," McGee said of his defense. "Our defensive staff has a lot of pride. The way that we performed throughout the season is not up to the standard that we've set for ourselves. There's no secret about that."
McGee said the staff spent the offseason figuring out ways to be more effective and get more speed on the field. Communication will be the biggest key. Now, UAB's entire secondary will meet in one room under secondary coach Brandon Sharp and assistant secondary coach Matt Sanders, instead of splitting up cornerbacks and safeties.
UAB tried to incorporate what McGee and defensive coordinator Reggie Johnson used in SEC games at Arkansas, but quickly realized Conference USA is built on spreading the field and moving at a faster pace.
"We have to adjust our terminology so that we can put a defense on the field with one-syllable code words that tell everybody what to do so that when a team's pressing full speed in a fastbreak style, we can get our team set," McGee said. "There are adjustments that our coaching staff had to make in the offseason and it's ongoing to give our guys in the fall the best chance for success.
"Conference USA is a spread out, fast breaking, wide open conference where there's going to be a lot of points scored, fast paced offense where the SEC is a bruising, physical conference. We have to adjust our schemes to fit."
UAB's signing class included several defensive backs and linebackers built to fit in a system that can cover more ground. This spring, though, several young players have a chance to step up.
Sophomores Shaq Jones and Derek Slaughter are leading candidates to start at outside linebacker spots going into spring. Fellow sophomores Chris Rabb and Jontavious Morris on the line and Vashon Landers, Kelton Brackett and Jake Ganus topped the pre-spring depth chart in the secondary. Sophomore cornerback LaMarcus Farmer is a returning starter coming off an ankle injury that was more serious than appeared, and he'll make a push.
"I think that they have a lot of intensity," McGee said of his defense after the first practice on Wednesday. "We've spent a lot of time in the offseason not only looking at the schemes and the defensive structure we're going to play and the offensive schemes we're going to play against, but we've also took a look at the way we go about our business - what are we teaching, how are our drills being managed, how are we communicating with our kids. Just so we can play a different style, intensity, speed, aggressive, ball-hawking defense next season."
McGee said that the offense and defense have turnover competitions during practice and the defense won on Wednesday.
"So, I'm proud of them," he said.


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[sarcasm] I wish they would actually bring something NEW to brawl!!! IF YOU PLAY WITHOUT ITEMS THERE IS NOTHING NEW!!1 [/sarcasm]
I think its enough evidence from everybody that items and final smashes are suppost to be used.
[sarcasm] I wish they would actually bring something NEW to brawl!!! IF YOU PLAY WITHOUT ITEMS THERE IS NOTHING NEW!!1 [/sarcasm]
Strikers FC:025884-970933
RIP: Hidden in Plain View, Counterfit Pennies, The Early November
thanks to idjut for the sig!
I also play without items mostly to train. Sure, they're fun occasionally, but I enjoy the one-on-one duel based completely on ability and skill.
Still, final smashes might change that...they're just too awesome to ignore.
hahaha definitly i always do too. you always run to get the hammer and if you lose that race, you turn tail and run haha. i think playing with items is just straight up more fun too. you can always take the hammer off... i remember i used to always play with just pokeballs, thats a fun match.Originally Posted by wiiisawesome
Its not my fault im a fast readerWho cares about that? i have brawl! FC: 0817-3472-1993. PM me if you add me.
i use to leave ssbm none for items but it got pretty boring so i change it to very low in brawl ill maybe leave at normal first then switch it up to low or very low
META KNIGHT definition: UBER BAD ASS!
Brawl Code: 1590-4500-0038
add me plz also pm me if you r adding me thanks! plz only add if you live in canada or the u.s
my nickname is: DOM
How do you win with one item? unless your both noobs, then obviously one will win if hammer is on Max appearance or whatever. but if ALL items are on. when you get goldeen, i dont think its Pokeball= u win no skill involved.Originally Posted by toomstone
Mario Kart DS 438194819390
People i respect on this forum: Atomic,Santa Claws,Frogger,Cyan,Levesque, Balrogs.pain, Shoko, MushroomedMario, sremick
I make my avatars/signatures!
Spoiler Alert!For some reason, i only have WiiSports, But whats weird is my friend lets me borrow his games so i dont have to waste money.
BLASPHAMYOriginally Posted by levesqueking
i hope the hammer part falls off on wifi while the swinging the stick throw the hammer part at them lol
credit goes to MRvisiter on the castle crashers fourm
Lol I hate it when that happens.
Made by idjut
Brawl: 31 DAYS
Main: Mario
I'm going to use items.
Why not play the game to its full potential?
Not to fit a mold,Not to join a trend,Not to follow a crowd


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The Obama administration will not re-nominate Rebecca Wodder to be assistant secretary of the Interior for fish, wildlife and parks. "As a result of the prolonged nomination process, Rebecca Wodder has asked the president that she not be re-nominated," Interior spokesman Adam Fetcher said last week.
The person most responsible for prolonging the nomination process was Sen. David Vitter, R-La., who last August placed a hold on her nomination, demanding that Interior first extend hundreds of Gulf of Mexico drilling leases that were set to expire.
While Interior's Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement, after a review of 1,413 deepwater leases that were affected by the post-Macondo drilling moratorium, extended 97.7 percent of them, Vitter also wanted extensions for all shallow-water leases as well, which were not explicitly affected by the moratorium, though the industry complained that they too suffered through a dramatic slowdown.
"Completing 97.7% of only half of your job doesn't mean the work is complete," Vitter said. On news of the administration's decision not to try again with the Wodder nomination, Vitter said, "It's very telling of just how political Washington has become under this administration that they'd rather withdraw their own nominee than extend current Gulf drilling leases."
Fetcher said that, "based on her extensive experience and expertise, the secretary has asked (Wodder) to serve as a senior adviser, working primarily on conservation issues and the America's Great Outdoors initiative." Wodder formerly was president and CEO of the environmental group, American Rivers.
Bruce Alpert can be reached at email@example.com or 202.450.1406. Jonathan Tilove can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com or 202.450.1404.


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PASADENA, Calif., Sept. 9 (UPI) — Amateur astronomers have spotted two fireballs lighting up Jupiter's atmosphere, the first time telescopes have caught such small events, scientists say.
The two fireballs, which caused fleeting bright spots on Jupiter that were visible through backyard telescopes, occurred June 3 and Aug. 20, a NASA release said Thursday.
A paper published in Astrophysical Journal Letters estimated the object causing the June fireball was 30 to 40 feet in diameter, comparable in size to asteroid 2010 RF12 that flew past Earth Wednesday.
The Aug. 20 object was thought to be about the same size.
"Jupiter is a big gravitational vacuum cleaner," Glenn Orton, at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif., said. "It is clear now that relatively small objects, remnants of the formation of the solar system 4.5 billion years ago, still hit Jupiter frequently. Scientists are trying to figure out just how frequently."
This kind of discovery couldn't have been made without amateur astronomers around the world, whose observations of Jupiter provide a near round-the-clock surveillance that would be impossible to do with the long lines of scientists waiting to use the large telescopes, Orton said.
Copyright 2010 United Press International, Inc. (UPI). Any reproduction, republication, redistribution and/or modification of any UPI content is expressly prohibited without UPI's prior written consent.


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Follow me on Twitter@JimKleinepter
Nashville, Tenn. - LSU meets Vanderbilt today.
Tigers road warriors (Randy Rosetta, The Advocate)
SEC a hard road to hoe (Scott Hotard, The Advocate)
Only cramps can stop Peterson (Glenn Guilbeau, Gannett)
Five things to look for (Bleacher Report)
Weaknesses exposed (Dave Moorman, Weekly Citizen)
Tigers look for strong finish (Jim Kleinpeter, Times Picayune)
Miles needs convincing win (Tony Barnhart's Top 10)
Peterson on offense? (Chip Patterson, College Football Blog)


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Kate Moss will be honoured at this year's British Fashion Awards and will receive the Special Recognition award in celebration of her vast 25-year modelling career.
Since Sarah Doukas of Storm Model's discovered Moss in an airport in 1987, she has become a household name, the most prolific Vogue cover girl and a designer's and photographer's favourite.
The supermodel will collect her prize at the awards ceremony in London next week which will be hosted by comedian Jack Whitehall.


text:
Ray Allen was on the "Sean and John" show a couple of days ago. Here's a link to his half hour interview. Among the topics of discussion:
- The construction of the 2007-08 Celtics
- The exodus of the NBA from Seattle
- His disappointment in being drafted by the Bucks instead of the C's in 1996
- His son Walker being diagnosed with diabetes the morning of Game 5 of the Finals last season
- Some funny stories about Denzel Washington, a trip to Barnes & Noble, and more
Check it out. Thanks to Sean for passing it along.


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"The pawns are the soul of chess". With this sentence, Danican André Philidor (1726-1795), put the basics of chess strategy. Although a century would pass until the theory was revised and consolidated by Stenitz (founder of positional school), leading to how to understand chess as we know it today.
Fragment of original book "Analyse du jeu des échecs" by Philidor
An example of Philidor philosophy can be seen in the Philidor opening (topic of this tournament) on the black after 1. e4 e5 2.Nf3 d6 trying to build a solid pawns structure and a strong center.Philidor was an advanced of his time. He introduced this concept in full Romantic chess period, which were based on chess tactics, combinations in the short term, when more spectacular more better. The importance of pawns, the creation of a solid structure that would eventually lead to the consolidation of the center ... strategic concepts were non existent at XVII century.
In 1749 Philidor published the book "Analyse du jeu des échecs", an advance in chess knowledge.
Download PDF of 'Analysis of the game of chess, 2nd edition. London, MDCCLXXVII (1777)
Some good examples (taken from the book) of this strategic conception, ahead of its time, found in the following statements:
▪ The pawns are the soul of chess. For his good or bad disposal depends win or lose the game.
▪ When you have two pawns united in line, should leave them well, without advancing any pawn until the opponent intends to change one of them, which should be avoided, advancing the pawn attacked.
▪ Must be generally rule unite pawns and bring them to center.
▪ A doubled pawn, when it's linked with other pawns, is not a disadvantage if it approach to center.
▪ How more advanced are the pawns, more are exposed to being captured.
▪ Generally, should not rush to make an attack with pawns until they are all well protected by themselves or other pieces, otherwise, these attacks lead to failure.
▪ It is always an advantage to attack an isolated pawn, although to distract the enemy pieces.
...Thanks Philidor, and good luck to all!
2 players delay the hole tourmament...
Philidor, apart from playing chess, it was also musician. You can listen to a few fragments of his work: Marche Royale
Masquerade du Roy de la Chine
Very nice information section Pau, not often see on tournaments pages. Thanks !!!
"The pawns are the soul of chess". Memorial Philidor
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©2011 Robin A.F. Olson. Bob Dole (left) and NICKY (right) "share" the electric blanket.
Bob is hanging in there. After four months of chemo, somehow he's still with us. Each day with him is a blessing, even if I only seem to interact with him when it's time for a snack or a pill. He sleeps a lot, so I try not to bother him too much. I know he's resting and comfortable. I check on him all the time. He still purrs and whines, depending on his mood and appetite.
I set up an electric blanket over an old chair, which became a big hit with the cats. I'm not sure if Nicky, our huge 24 lb cat, is willing to share or just puts up with Bob if he wants to warm himself on the blanket, too. Looking at this photo, you'd think Bob was very tiny. He's average size. Nicky, however, is enormous-freakishly so. More to snuggle with-that's for sure. In a way, it's like he's looking out for Bob and helping him feel better.
©2011 Robin A.F. Olson. NICKY planning his next move.
I'll leave out the part of the story where I tell you that Nicky ran over my FACE this morning; his own brand of shocking wakeup call. I don't want to ruin your opinion of him as being a NICE cat, looking out for Bob, instead of being a pain in the rear end, thoughtlessly crushing Sam's man bits before he makes a beeline for my head.
It's okay. We can pretend Nicky's a good boy for awhile longer, but tonight I'm wearing a football helmet to bed and I heard a rumor that Sam's going to wear a cup.
I'm trying not to think about Bob...24 hours a day. I'm trying to remember to not loose my footing, to stay calm, to try to breathe. I don't want to make a rash decision, but I also don't feel like I have a lot of time to think. With the Holiday crush upon me and with Polly and her family and MacGruber about to arrive, I need to get things ready, but all I want to do is lie down next to Bob and just be with him.
I know I can't take enough photos of him. I can't pet him enough times. I can't listen to his crazy purr long enough. I got up at 5am, went downstairs and just sat with him and petted him. I can't take one second for granted. I can't assume he will be here tomorrow. Sure, that's true for all of us, but when you KNOW the sand in the hour glass is running low, is there any way to prepare?
I've made a few more decisions. I took Bob to get a blood test to check to see if his blood will coagulate properly. If it does, then he is a better candidate for surgery. If it does not, then we'll stop here and just let Bob live out whatever days he has left. If he's OK to go ahead, then I'll meet with the surgeon. She is VERY well respected-certainly one of the best. I'll only have a consult with her, that's it. If she says we can go ahead, then I have to make a very difficult decision. Dr. Larry told me that if we did open Bob up and they find that he has cancer, to wake him up out of sedation is unkind. It would be asking so much of Bob-to have him wake up, then face painful recovery, only to die a few weeks or months later in even more pain from the cancer spreading.
"You have to prepare yourself now for being able to make that choice for Bob, if it comes to that."
There goes my heart, breaking into little pieces. I can't put Bob through Hell, but there IS a chance it is benign, operable, can be removed and he can live for a few more YEARS. How can I not take that chance? My head feels like it's going to explode.
I ordered a new cat tree a few weeks ago-before all this mess with Bob. I bought it on a lark, thinking it would give another one of my cats a place to go if she got stressed out. The box just arrived a few days ago when I was hormonal (why do cat trees show up when I have PMS? If you want a laugh, read THIS and THIS). Sam and I weren't on great terms (still). Somehow we still managed to put the thing together without killing each other.
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson. Blitzen, the parts inspector arrives.
In a way, it was nice to do something that got my mind off things. The simplicity of tightening down a bolt helped me stop obsessing. Seeing the parts scattered across the floor, while my cats excitedly inspected every piece made me break with tradition, as of late, and actually smile.
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson. Bob helps with the inspection, but as usual, Nicky fails by smelling Bob's tail, instead of the parts of the cat tree.
Blitzen was fascinated. He sniffed and climbed on everything. Bob and Nicky joined in, but were soon bored and went back to taking a nap. Blitzen, began to scratch on the sisal posts just seconds after they were in place. Lock down a sleeping platform and he was on it having a field day.
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson. Bob!
Blitz was certainly test-driving the cat tree and it was a good thing he did-he's about the ONLY cat that will actually FIT onto or into most of the damn thing!
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson. Bratty boy "helps." (we're still building the cat tree at this point)
It's small. This is not a cat tree for full grown cats, save for the main platform that's big enough for any cat to lie on, but the rest of it is tiny. One piece was so small we didn't even bother to attach it. Honestly, this will be GREAT for my foster kittens, but my guys will not be able to enjoy this very much.
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson
Of course, tell that to Blitzen. He loved it. There was only one problem.
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson. Blitzen gives this cat tree a 1-Belly Up!
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson. Bucket o' Blitz.
"Someone" is not big on sharing.
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson. Spencer was investigating the top of the cat tree when Blitzen reminding him whose cat tree it was.
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson. Not sure which end of Spencer you're seeing in this photo.
I admit that Blitzen is good for cheering me up when I'm feeling down, but it makes me feel guilty, too. Blitz is, in some ways, much like Bob. Blitz has a crazy purr and it's obvious he shares a resemblance with Bob, though Blitz is very light in coloring. Blitzen is all things joyous and fun-full of promise and magic. He has decades ahead of him, most likely. His story is just beginning.
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson. King of the Cat Tree (for now)
Bob was like Blitzen once-a long time ago. I never knew Bob in his youth, only as an adult. I bet he was a handful when he was a baby. I find myself wishing that I COULD have been his "mama," from day one. I could have prevented him from getting FIV+, he'd still have all his teeth and most likely, he never would have gotten a mass on his liver in the first place...but I can't get a "do over" to put Bob back together again. I don't have the right tools and I'm pretty sure the instructions are written in Chinese.
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson. Bob, enjoying his heated cat bed.
I know this road. I've walked it more times than I care to recall. It's the moment at which I realize the time I have with one of my cats is coming to an end. The road is full of hopeful moments that will ultimately lead to despair and to the final choice we must make for our cat, one day.
I hate this road more than I can say. It eats at my heart and taxes my reserves. I try to prepare myself, but there is no preparing for death. It comes, as it does for all of us. We either accept it and find peace or fight and have the same end, no matter what.
On Saturday I got Bob's blood test results. His liver function, one test indicated by his ALT, was stratospherically high. A normal value would be 10-100. Bob was at 1240.
Other liver values were also very high, save for his Bilirubin, no it's not a sandwich, it's a blood test. That test result was normal. This is a good thing.
From Cat World, Australia, I found this description of Bilirubin:
Bilirubin: This is a major breakdown product of red blood cells. When red blood cells wear out they are trapped in the spleen and destroyed, releasing bilirubin into the blood. This type of bilirubin is called unconjugated. This bilirubin is transported in the blood to the liver, where it is taken up & conjugated (joined with glycuronic acid). This conjugated form may either be stored in the liver cells or excreted into the bile. Bilirubin levels are increased in cats with liver disease, gallbladder disease or have excessive destruction of red blood cells (known as hemolysis).
What do these numbers mean? See THIS web site for some helpful guidelines.
Then the kicker came today. Bob had an ultrasound done of his heart and abdomen. I thought I was going to be able to sit in during the ultrasound, but Dr. K said it would be quicker if he was on his own. Super Deb assured me she'd be with him and answer any questions. I kept thinking about this and that thing I wanted to make sure he knew, but in the end, nothing I was worried about mattered.
I took Super Deb's dog, Jayne for a walk, instead of twiddling my thumbs in the waiting room. It was freezing cold outside with a bitter wind. I tried to shake off the fear of what I would find out in a few more minutes. I tried to not cry thinking about it. I know as any good cat-parent knows-something is wrong, I just didn't know what it was. I didn't really WANT to know.
When I returned to Dr. Larry's office, grabbed a magazine about celebrities and their fabulous lives and pretended to look at it. I saw Super Deb. She wouldn't make eye contact with me. Then Dr. Larry arrived to start his day. He didn't even look towards the waiting room. Maybe it was not a big deal that he didn't look, but it seemed like no one wanted to even give me a hint as to what was going on.
Sam arrived with Petunia and Nora. He sat next to me, but we didn't speak. It's been a common thread here for a very long time. We only speak when necessary. Something is going on with Sam. I can guess, but he won't talk to me about it. Instead he hides in his office in the basement and plays his guitar. He mumbles this and that. He helps out around the house, in silence. Each day I grow a little more resentful, more angry. I am shut out and alone. I didn't do anything wrong. I can't wait forever for his life to be in a place where he feels like being a partner to me again. I'm still suffering from the car accident, in tremendous pain, but he does nothing. No comforting. No nothing. With all the stress I have about Bob, he only taps my shoulder or brushes my hand. When I need him most, he is the furthest away. I have to ask myself how many more years can this go on? What happened to having joy? Companionship? Even a dear friendship? For so long I have tried to encourage him to trust me, to talk to me, to give him guidance and support, but I am tired of trying.
So, Sam is there, but not there. I am there, but wishing I was somewhere else.
Petunia is getting a dental. One of her molars has a HOLE in it! Was THIS what was causing her to go on a pee-storm throughout the house? Fight with the other cats? Did she also have a urinary tract infection or impacted anal glads? While under anesthesia we'd be finding out. Maybe after all these years, I'd finally have a true end to the inappropriate urination going on in my home.
Nora was there to check her foot. We thought she had ringworm, but turns out she did not. She has some sort of fungal infection on one foot. It hasn't spread. We've treated it and it's getting better. But what about BOB??! Will someone please TELL ME what is GOING ON?
Dr. Larry took a deep breath. That was all he had to do. I knew it was bad news and he was preparing himself to speak.
Bob's heart is normal, which is very good, but...
Fun with ultrasound results.
As you can see, above, the many LONG words that I can't make heads or tails of spell out that Bob has a 5 cm mass present in the right lobe of his liver. It is not possible to tell if it's a cancer or if it's a benign tumor that could be treated or removed surgically.
With FIV+ and being a senior cat, Bob may not be a good candidate for surgery. He may have cancer and if they do the surgery they will open him up, then say they have to put him down. That it would not be fair to wake him up when he will only live a little while longer, anyway. It's a big crap shoot.
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson. Bob ponders his future (on his new blanket from Jennifer)
Thanks to one of my readers who works with FIV+ and Feline Leukemia positive cats, she told me something shocking:
...for any kitty that has been tested since the beginning of this year with the new IDEXX 3-way test (FIV/FeLV/HW), you cannot trust ANY positive result on the FIV or FeLV component: incredibly high rate of false positives, confirmed by retests with the western blot for FIV or the IFA for FeLV. the true positive rate on retest is the normal, VERY LOW, percentage. (and, of course, the FeLV component only tests for EXPOSURE, and most cats are able to process the virus out of their systems, which is why retesting is imperative. usually, the retest should be done 90-120 days after last exposure, but with the nationwide problems on the new test, we-who-get-the-panicked-calls-to-place-these-cats are advising that cats be retested immediately. (IDEXX does know about the problem, and will admit it to vets; however, tho they've asked for the names and contact info for those who have stats--national rescues, and special-needs sanctuaries--they've never followed up when they were provided with same.
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson. Blitzen and Nicky try to cheer Bob up.
Even though Bob was tested years ago, this is the time to make SURE he is FIV+ because that will effect his ability to get a surgeon to take on his case. Because he was not neutered at an appropriate age, he got FIV. This is my Mother's fault and I will never forgive her for not caring for her cat. His life would have been so much better if he'd been neutered sooner and not left outdoors to get into fights with other territorial males.
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson. Blitzen decides to lick Bob's head while Nicky is...Nicky.
I started to cry when I got the news...big, shaky tears. I tried not to cry, but he knew I couldn't hold back. Dr. Larry rubbed my arm and told me about a woman whose dog had the same thing Bob does. That he opened the dog up and saw the mass and called the owner and said he should put the dog down. The mass was too big. The dog would die anyway. She was going through a bad divorce. The dog was all she had. She demanded he cut the mass off-so he took half the liver. The dog lived...another two and a half YEARS. But Bob's not that dog and Bob could have cancer and Bob has FIV+ and he's a senior...blah blah blah...
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson. Blitzen being cute, as usual.
I just wanted to fall over, curl up in a ball and weep. But that won't help Bob get better or live a bit longer, at least.
So I asked a few questions, then left the exam room. The first thing I saw was Moonpie's face! His new owner, as promised, brought Moonie and Patty to meet Dr. Larry now that they are adopted. I couldn't have been happier to see their friendly faces. I took Moonie out of his cat carrier and held him. He sat comfortably in my arms. Both cats meowed furiously at me. I hope they weren't asking me to take them home. I wanted to, but they will be happy in their new home one day. Right now they're doing well, but are still scared. Their new owner says that each day the calm down a bit more and become a bit more cuddly. With three young boys to play with, it's a big change for them. I told her to give it a month and that I'm always there for her whenever she had a question. She told me to come visit them any time. It would be too tempting to sneak them back home with me, but it was really GOOD to see them again.
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson. My boy, Bob.
We loaded Bob into the car, alongside Nora and drove separately home. I got Bob fed and gave him his liver medicine. He ate well, then went to his heated bed for a nap. It was just like any other day, completely unremarkable, save for the part that I know there may not be many more such unremarkable days ahead.
As Hurricane Earl churns in the Atlantic, I sit and wait and wonder if it's going to behave and only give the folks here in Connecticut a glancing blow of high winds and torrential rain or if the weather reports will be wrong and Earl will take a devious leap west and blast us with its' Category 2 fury.
I realized that should we ever take a direct hit that I have nowhere to go that would allow cats-and certainly not foster cats that also have ringworm. I couldn't even put them in the car with the healthy cats.
I'd be forced to stay behind.
So Sam and I got up at 6AM. This was not my idea of a good time. No one should get up until at least 9AM and 10AM would be even better. Anyway, we wanted to get to the grocery store and buy some non-perishable items like pudding cups, nuts, chocolate covered raisins. You know-important things that will keep us healthy if we lose power—which happens if you fart too hard around here. We expect the power will go out-which also means, no WATER.
We live in a house where everything is run by electricity-including the pump that goes to our 390' deep well. That means no shower and NO FLUSHING. Not fun. We have those 5 gallon bottles of water and a dispenser. Some of the bottles are empty so we filled them with tap water. Ah ha! Now we will be able to flush, though holding a 40 pound jug of water, aiming over the toilet tank, then hoping you don't miss and dump it all over the floor or miss and get it into the toilet BOWL, which would splatter whatever was currently IN the bowl all over the walls.
Gosh, I hope the power doesn't go out tomorrow. I just don't think there's enough bleach in the world to clean my walls after that.
As I wait to find out if my little house in the woods is going to be decimated by Hurricane Earl, I thought I'd catch you up on a BUNCH of news...in no particular order...
Her leg, HELLO!, is HEALED! She will walk just fine. She beat the infections, but traded them off for a cold. That said she is well enough now to go into foster care. I heard her foster home is terrific and her rescuers, called The Cat Women, should be getting a check from me via Sweetwater Vet Hospital, to cover ALL of HOPE's medical bills! There will be a bit left over and that will go into a fund to help other cats who need vet care.
HOPE has a new name: Ariel. This will mark her new journey. In a very strange coincidence, Ariel's foster mom is none other than Mary Jo-who is the subject of item number 2!
There aren't enough swear words to cover how I feel about Pattycake getting ringworm. She had it in transport, but only a tiny dot on her ear. I didn't even NOTICE what you see below. Granted the area was shaved after Dr. Larry's Vet Tech, Mighty Lauren found it!
And of course, a few days later I felt some "crud" on her brother, Moonpie's ear so he's got it, too. Both cats are in the bathroom for eternity, or another month. Then they will be 5 months old and even harder to find a forever home for. If this is as bad as it gets I will be grateful. If the 4 little kittens in the foster room get it, too...that will be really bad...if my cats get it...well...not good...not good at all.
This is why having TWO cats is nice. If one gets sick, no problem. If both got sick, no problem! When they ALL start to get sick? PROBLEM! Having EIGHT CATS is NOT FOR SOMEONE WITH A WEAK CONSTITUTION-which is WHY I should have TWO CATS!
Thanks to Barb Lowe at Winging Cat Rescue and two other rescue groups, five cats from Jasper were saved, along with three others from Douglas and eight by our friend Joan Flores in TN, along with six from Heard County and three more who were supposedly rescued but their rescue DUMPED THEM!!!!!...so they were RE-RESCUED!
Yes, there's a price for rescuing all these cats. Barb needs Scotch and a vacation somewhere quiet AND she needs $400.00 to cover transport. Let's show her how we can help her money woes disappear and thank her for all her hard work, saving these babies!
6. Little Maria WILL be having her surgery next week! Stay tuned for LOTS MORE NEWS ABOUT THIS BIG EVENT FOR A LITTLE KITTY!
That is if my power doesn't go out tomorrow...and Earl keeps his distance.
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson
Before I found the big barf to clean up or even made it out of bed, this was the first thing I saw this morning; Nicky and Blitzen, snuggled together. Nicky weighs 19 lbs and is one of the biggest cats I have ever seen. At 8 months, little Blitzen looks like he's got a long way to go before he'll be as big as his new "brother."
Looks like Blitzen has learned how to fit in quite well.
But really. We need a bigger bed. Sam's legs are behind Blitzen and Sam is almost hanging off the mattress! Oops.
Happy Caturday!
I'm not getting any younger. That's for sure. Every day new aches pop up and the type on cat food can labels looks like a secret code only a mouse could read. I don't have children (other than furry ones) and my family is sparse, mostly non-cat people (how that happened, I don't know) or I hate their guts (oops).
That leaves me with a predicament.
Who will care for my cats after I die? Sam and I are together so often that we could die together in an accident. What then? What if Sam dies first, then I die?
©2009 Robin A.F. Olson. Bob has already had two families that I know of. Will he have another one day?
I have a Will. In it, I dictated that the Director of the group I'm with should find homes for my cats. I have come to realize that that choice is not a good one any longer. I would rather know the homes my cats are going to now, if, at all possible. Just as people do with children, I would like to choose "Godparents" for my cats.
Am I being morbid? NO. I'm being realistic. Shit happens even when you're 18 or 32. I'm pushing the big 5-0. I've been lucky so far, but one day the luck will run out.
©2008 Robin A.F. Olson. Cricket sleeps. My former feral is mostly too shy around anyone but us. What will become of him? He's a really sweet boy. He would not make it in a shelter.
I started to imagine putting just one person in charge of all the cats. They would get my house, most of my stuff, but would have to live here until all the cats pass away (naturally!), then they can do what they want with the stuff. But that's a lot to ask.
The other problem is that the people who would give my cats the best home, already HAVE, in most cases, quite a few cats, already. Asking them to take 8 more is too much. Perhaps, asking them to take one or two is possible?
I don't have to have it all sorted out in a day (I hope), but I dipped my toe into the water to see how it would feel. I asked someone to take Bob Dole, should he outlive me.
I asked, Super-Deb.
©2009 Robin A.F. Olson. Spencer. The pouffy cat with his own fan club. Spencer is my beloved, but he wouldn't be an easy fit into just any home. He must have play time or he can be bossy with other cats. He's an alpha-boy, too and does not like belly rubs or to be picked up. That said, he loves to be near me at all times and he's "my boy."
I love Super-Deb, but who wouldn't love someone who is super? Even though I've known SD for many years, I don't know her very well. She is a private person, with me, but I get the feeling she's shared things with me that maybe not many other people know. She may seem to be a bit guarded, but it doesn't take long for her to reveal a wicked dry sense of humor. Her devotion to her own animals and her loving care of them is a beautiful sight to behold. She really knows her stuff and has been a mentor to me during so many crises and a calming voice during the worst of it.
©2009 Robin A.F. Olson. Petunia or "'Tunie" as I call her. She should be called; "Princess." She's clever, chats with me and can do tricks, but she is high strung-no wonder, she's one of the lowest cats and I know the boys pick on her some times. She would be great in a home with no other cats other than her mama, Gracie. I know she would blossom.
She's jokingly called "Aunt Debbie" when Bob goes to Dr. Larry's. Bob loves her and vice versa. He will let her brush him and he won't let me do as much. I only want Bob to visit Dr. Larry when Aunt Debbie is there to oversee his care. It's a perfect fit for SD to take Bob.
©2009 Robin A.F. Olson. I should re-name this cat, "Poor-Gracie." for she is not in good shape. I'll write more about her, separately, but she's had a very long road with a skin ailment that's taken her beauty and her joy in life. She needs a kind hand and a knowledgeable person to keep her healthy.
Yesterday we were talking on the phone about my worries about Gracie. I didn't have the nuts to ask her about Bob, so I sent her an email, shyly asking her to ignore my being a loonie, and would she consider taking Bob (along with some money for his care) if something happens to me and Sam? She wrote back a resounding YES!
A few minutes later, my phone rang. SD blurted; "Can I have Blitzen, too?!"
©2010 Robin A.F. Olson. Bob and Blitz. Some days things are just perfect.
I didn't want to ask her for that, thinking it was too big of a request, but of course, YES. I would be happy for her to take him, too.
I've got four more cats to figure out homes for, unless Sam wants me to try to place his cats, too, and then it will be six. Once we have this worked out, I go to my lawyer. I want to protect my cats as much as I can after I die. They shouldn't have to face death row at a shelter because they might be older or sickly. It's not fair to them at all.
©2009 Robin A.F. Olson. I assume there will be a fist-fight over Nicky, but with Nicky, comes Nora. Maybe they can go back and live with their brothers; "Charles and Bailey," but I haven't asked just yet.
Nick and Nora. Sam's cats. These two cats are just about the biggest cats I've ever seen. Nicky is not even fat, he's just gigantic. Nora, well, she's slowly slimming down, but still kinda-sorta looks like a baby seal at the right angle.
Well, it's Sunday, folks, a perfect day for a long snuggle with the kitties, maybe read a good book with a cup of tea or coffee? Maybe a ripped, shirtless, guy would bring me some donuts, while I'm relaxing? Maybe he would also rub my feet for at least two hours (per foot). Then he would clean the house and prepare an elegant, delicious meal for me to enjoy, before he LEAVES.
Ah, Sunday. A day for dreams.
I'm not big on tooting my own horn. My efforts are all about saving cats. That said, it's been a very strange few days. I'm getting my 15 minutes of fame and then some...
Monday I asked my Director about doing a "Fur Raiser" for Matter of Trust. She liked the idea. Tom, the owner of our local pet food store liked the idea and offered to help by being the drop off location for any fur we collect. I began designing flyers and a banner, some web graphics and whatever else we need. I also wrote the Press Release and our Director sent it off to the local paper. I sent it off to the local News stations.
On Wednesday, a reporter for one of the local newspapers saw a comment I made on Facebook about the Brookfield Craft Center closing its' doors. She asked to interview me about it and I agreed. I used the opportunity to tell her about our "Fur For the Gulf" Fur-Raiser and she liked the idea and said she would talk to her Editor about it. The Editor liked the idea and asked her to interview me AGAIN and to send a photographer to my house to get a shot of me brushing the cats (easier said that done, I can tell you that!).
Nicky is going to star in the local paper in a day or two! Here he is just after the photo shoot, still looking like a model.
Out of three news programs I contacted, one, NBC, contacted me right away and want to do a story about us. With any luck, they'll be at Your Healthy Pet on Saturday, early in the afternoon. I've arranged to have our mama cat, Sally Sox there with her 6 kittens-just for the photo op and hopefully some viewers will fall in love with the kitties and adopt them. Why not? Kittens have to be brushed and can donate fur, too!
Today the article hit about the Craft Center. I think it's a hoot. If you want to read it, it's HERE. Tomorrow or Saturday or Sunday or who knows when, the articles about the Fur For the Gulf will be out.
How much fur will we collect? I already know a Vet and a groomer who is going to donate fur. I have a little bag from our photo session (most of it ended up on me) and I have a feeling we'll get a lot more. No one knows if this will work or not. If we'll be stuck having to cough up a lot of money for shipping or if we will scratch our heads and wonder why we did this. I wish we got all this press over our kitten programs, but it's a start. By doing something a bit unusual, I was able to get our group some attention. I have to say, the irony of writing a blog called: Covered in Cat Hair and knowing I'm about to collect cat hair on purpose, didn't go unnoticed.
So two newspaper articles and a tv news spot. Not a bad start. If anyone wants my autograph, just drop me an email. Hee hee.
Circa 2006, the cats gather 'round the fridge. Is it for a late night snack? In so many words, YES.
Go ahead, YOU tell me what this means. Don't need a manual to understand this cat behavior I photograhped in 2006, right?
Coincidently, the same thing is going on in my bathroom right now. Some critter is makin' a whole lotta noise in the wall behind the shower stall. Sweet! Guess it's time to pull out the havahart trap before my cats find whatever creature has moved in.
By the way, the mouse that was under the fridge was probably depressed and suicidal because I can't figure out any other reason why a mouse would DARE come into my house!


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Celebrating With The Brand-Makers
During the 10th semi-annual N.Y. Home Fashions Market V.I.P. cocktail reception co-sponsored by LDB Interior Textiles and 7 West New York, and held at 7 W. 34th St., top suppliers in the home fashions arena met and mingled with Guests of Honor Judy George and Kim Salmela, creators of the Hotel Maison brand. Judy George is also founder of creative think-tank Judy George International and former founder/ceo of Domain Home. Kim Salmela is also president of Kim Salmela Atelier and former owner/co-owner of several retail venues. The duo recently signed an agreement with Divatex to add fashion bedding to the furniture and mattress products already in the boutique-hotel-look-at-home line. For more details on Hotel Maison, visit hotelmaison.com.


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This article was first published in the February 2011 UK edition of Accounting and Business magazine
The third phase of the International Accounting Standards Board's (IASB) project to replace IAS 39, Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, has resulted in an exposure draft (ED) that sets out proposals for hedge accounting. When finalised, the requirements will be added to IFRS 9, Financial Instruments.
The IASB considers that the proposed model will more closely align hedge accounting with the risk management activities undertaken by companies when they hedge their financial and non-financial exposures.
Under IAS 39, it is possible to hedge components of financial items but not components of non-financial items. The ED requires consideration only of whether a risk component can be identified and measured, rather than determining what can be hedged by reference to the type of item.
The ability to use hedge accounting will also be extended to net positions, currently not permitted under IAS 39. It is further proposed that the mechanics of fair value hedge accounting will be changed, so that it is reflected in other comprehensive income in the same way as already required for cashflow hedges.
The new model will be accompanied by comprehensive disclosures focusing not on the hedging instruments, but on the risks the reporting entity is managing, how those risks are being managed and the outcome of the risk management activity, including the effect on the financial statements.
Yvonne Lang, director, Smith & Williamson


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Park Closed Dec. 24-25, 31, Jan. 1; Southern Lights Open Nightly Through Dec. 31
Park Closed Dec. 24-25, 31, Jan. 1; Southern Lights Open Nightly Through Dec. 31
The Richmond Register recently posted an article about Southern Lights, which is currently taking place nightly at the Kentucky Horse Park through the rest of the year.
To read the full article, please follow the link below:
Follow the magical Southern Lights route at the Kentucky Horse Park as seen via horseback by our esteemed Kentucky Horse Park Mounted Police.
Boasting over four miles of lights, Southern Lights continues to grow and improve each year, adding additional holiday displays along the driven route and expanding its Holiday Festival attractions to enjoy on foot.
Southern Lights has evolved to attract over 120,000 visitors each year from across Kentucky and surrounding states and is regularly chosen as a Top 20 Event in the Southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society.
Travel Tails is a travel blog created and maintained by Denise Holmes. With her trusty dog, Henri, Holmes travels and reports on new places she discovers. In a recent post about holiday light displays across the country, she lists Southern Lights as one of the favorites.
Follow the link to read the full blog post:
Family-Favorite Event Runs Nov. 20-Dec. 31 at Kentucky Horse Park
A family tradition in Kentucky, the Southern Lights holiday festival, presented by Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky Inc., returns to the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Nov. 20-Dec. 31. More than 125,000 individuals in more than 30,000 vehicles attend Southern Lights annually from Kentucky and beyond, making Southern Lights a premier holiday event in the region and nation.
Run, Walk or Stroll Through Annual Holiday Display in Heart of Horse Country
To celebrate the return of the Southern Lights holiday festival, presented by Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky Inc., the Southern Lights Stroll will take place on Thursday, Nov. 19. On the only evening of Southern Lights when the public is allowed to experience a major portion of the lighted route on foot, visitors may choose to run, walk or stroll their way through thousands of dazzling holiday lights on the grounds of the Kentucky Horse Park.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Southern Lights holiday festival, presented by Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc., returns to the Kentucky Horse Park from November 22 to December 31. In addition to reaching a milestone two decades as a premier holiday event for Kentucky families, Southern Lights, produced by the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation, has also achieved status as a leading holiday event in the region and nation. More than 27,000 cars and 115,000 individuals attend Southern Lights annually.


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My parents separated and eventually divorced when I was in elementary school. During that first Christmas my mother needed time to get the house together and make sure that Santa was adequately prepared for his visit. She had my father take us out on Christmas Eve and since she needed a full day, he took us to the movies and then out for lunch. This was in 1988. 25 years later guess what my father does on Christmas Eve? He takes my brother and I to the movies. It's a tradition and I wonder if this would be our thing had it not been for my parents divorce. It doesn't matter because now the holiday season means togetherness and getting lost in a (sometimes good) movie despite the hustle and bustle.
I love Christmas. I love the lights, the snow (I am from Upstate NY after all) and the free fall into magic. I am a bit of a curmudgeon and annoyed with someone over something 75% of the time and even I can turn on the cheer. I love it all. But my favorite continues to be the movies. Not just the one we see in the theater each year but the ones that have become classics. The ones we reach to on the shelf when the calendar hits December 1st or in my case November 27th. The movies that make me thankful for this time of year.
Here are my top ten all time favorite holiday movies. These are movies that are universally loved but I am itching to add more to my repertoire so that I can have 30 days of holiday movies. And now someone out there is wondering what happened to the real Heather who loves C-SPAN. I'm still here it's just that I have to break up the monotony of politics with joy and John Candy.
What are your favorite holiday movies?
10. A Christmas Story 1 of 10
"Oh, life is like that. Sometimes, at the height of our revelries, when our joy is at it's zenith, when all is most right with the world, the most unthinkable disasters descend upon us." - Ralphie
Who DOESN'T love the story of Ralphie and his quest for a BB gun? And raise your hand if you seriously thought about sticking your tongue to a metal pole just to see what happens.
9. How the Grinch Stole Christmas 2 of 10
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
"We'll improvise... just keep it kind of loosey-goosey. You HATE Christmas! You're gonna steal it. Saving Christmas is a lousy ending, way too commercial. ACTION!" - The Grinch
Some hate this movie but I love when my books come to life and Jim Carrey's snarl? Yes.
8. Uncle Buck 3 of 10
"Hey, Mom. Next time you take off in the middle of the night, why don't you hire a murderer to watch the house?" - Tia Russell
While Uncle Buck isn't about the holidays it is about family - no matter how crazy the members are. It's sweet and goofy and did I mention John Candy? Because John Candy.
7. The Santa Clause 4 of 10
"Can we take a direct flight back to reality, or do we have to change planes in Denver?" - Scott Calvin
Santa Claus falls off the roof. The guy who finds him must now become Santa Claus. Chaos ensues. This movie is so bad that it's good.
6. Planes, Trains and Automobiles 5 of 10
Planes, Trains and Automobiles
"You know everything is not an anecdote. You have to discriminate. You choose things that are funny or mildly amusing or interesting. You're a miracle! Your stories have NONE of that. They're not even amusing ACCIDENTALLY!" - Neal Page
For some reason I didn't see this movie for the first time until very recently. Last year, I think. If Del and Neal don't make you laugh and then cry at the end then I'm afraid that your heart might be colder and blacker than mine.
5. Elf 6 of 10
"I thought maybe we could make ginger bread houses, and eat cookie dough, and go ice skating, and maybe even hold hands." - Budd the Elf
I'm guessing that the second you saw this title you blurted out "SMILING'S MY FAVORITE!" because that's what I do at the mention of Elf. Watching this movie means that Christmas is really coming.
4. Love Actually 7 of 10
"Life is full of interruptions and complications." - Karl
C'mon now, you know you want to get the shit kicked out of you by love. This movie is everything to love about love and Christmas and examining the relationship between the US and Great Britain.
3. Home Alone 8 of 10
"This is *Christmas*. The season of perpetual hope. And I don't care if I have to get out on your runway and hitchhike. If it costs me everything I own, if I have to sell my soul to the devil himself, I am going to get home to my son." - Kate McCallister
The story of Kevin McCallister's Christmas alone is now a classic. Though my favorite thing to do is realize that had this movie been made today it would have ended just as soon as it began. It's still one of the best in my humble opinion.
2. Christmas Vacation 9 of 10
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
"And when Santa squeezes his fat white ass down that chimney tonight, he's gonna find the jolliest bunch of assholes this side of the nuthouse." - Clark W. Griswold
Confession: This is the first holiday movie I watch each year. It makes me laugh out loud each time I see Clark W. Griswold put his family through the motions of achieving a perfect Christmas.
1. Trading Places 10 of 10
And for my number one favorite holiday movie *drum roll*
"One minute you're up half a million in soybeans and the next, boom, your kids don't go to college and they've repossessed your Bentley. Are you with me?" - Louis Winthorpe III
Why is it that all of the greatest holiday movies (in my opinion) were made in the 80's? I love Trading Places which is totally inappropriate for children and it's full of non-PC 80's humor which is what makes it so fantastic. Then there's the full on holiday/hooray for the good guys ending which makes it all worth it. Plus old school Eddie Murphy. Yes.
Keep the conversation going with Heather Barmore at Poliogue: The Art of Political Dialogue, Twitter and Facebook.


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In honor of St. Patrick's Day, I'm beginning John Banville's novel The Sea. It's something I've wanted to read forever, not just because it won the Man Booker, but because so many people say Banville's writing is strange and beautiful.
Also, it's a stormy day here, and I think the book will fit my mood. Maybe I'll bake some soda bread and have some tea while I read.
The first line is pretty good: "They departed, the gods, on the day of the strange tide."


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Travelling from one famous wine region to another, namely Bordeaux to Cape Town, Thomas Prevot has come to South Africa to "discover a new culture and a new kind of work." Studying hospitality management and catering, his work at Inverdoorn forms part of the practical work of his course. Staying at a game reserve in South Africa "is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" and, of course, as he points out "we don't have lodges with animals in France." He has been working in the kitchen at the lodge. He has chosen this unique experience, because "I want to work in all departments. I want to know everything."
When he is not caught up in the hustle and bustle of the kitchen he is getting acquainted with the local wildlife, meeting Velvet and Iziba and going on safari. This is Thomas's first time in South Africa, as well as Africa. "It's a really nice country, a lot of culture...it's beautiful...I've learnt lots of things...about the wild animals and the local culture." France, the epicurean centre of the Western world and home of the masterful Escoffier, is renowned for its frenetic pace behind the scenes of the culinary world. Here in South Africa, especially only a stone's throw away from Cape Town, notorious for its laid-back pace, Thomas finds that "it's a different kind of work, it's very quiet and not as strict."
With the tranquil solitude of the Karoo which surrounds the lodge, the atmosphere is even more relaxed and he admits that the greatest challenge "is being far away from the city." However, he has made firm friends with those around him, who affectionately dub him Ratatouille, as his role in the kitchen and shock of curly red hair is reminiscent of the character Linguini in the film, especially when he dons the chef's toque. He takes the playful banter in his stride, indicative of someone who is both confident and easy-going no matter what comes his way.
Tel: +27 (0)214 220 013
Fax: +27 (0)86 719 71 50
Mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
Meeting the Volunteers: Marion Sabatié
2 weeks among the marketing team
For all the latest news about your favourite animals at Inverdoorn like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest news and blog posts about the cheetahs, the rhinos, the lions and all the other animals that live on the reserve. Read about the people who look after them and have dedicated their lives to wildlife and its conservation.
Did you enjoy your trip to Inverdoorn? Submit a review to Trip Advisor or send us a review via our website. We want to hear all about your trip: what you liked, what you saw, the best parts and any suggestions and ideas for how we can improve the experience for YOU are also welcome. You can read what others have said about us by checking out some of the articles and press releases or chat to other guests on Trip Advisor. You can even join our Inverdoorn Community and stay in touch with our rangers, animal handlers and other guests.
Tel: +27 (0)214 220 013
Fax: +27 (0)86 719 7150
Mail: firstname.lastname@example.com


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Syracuse, NY -- Marketing guru Seth Godin says the rise of the Internet has brought about limitless possibilities for spreading ideas and making products. "You don't have to raise your hand and wait to be picked," he said. "The Internet says, pick yourself. Here's a microphone. Everyone gets one."
The best-selling author, blogger and entrepreneur spoke to a crowd of 600 Tuesday night in the Crouse-Hinds Theater of the John H. Mulroy Civic Center.
Part motivational speech, part business primer for the new millenium, Godin's talk encouraged listeners to consider alternative marketing strategies over traditional advertising. One of his examples: Little Miss Matched, a company that launched in 2004 based on the premise of selling mismatched socks in packs of one, three and seven.
Godin donned a pair of the brightly colored socks at the speech, explaining how the company's message was spread by teenage girls who told their friends about the new form of self-expression. "They made a product worth talking about," said Godin, adding that the company's revenues have skyrocketed from $1 million the first year to more than $40 million last year.
Godin's biggest message was to be original. He pointed to a photo of French artist Marcel Duchamp's iconic work, "Fountain." "The first guy to put a urinal in an art gallery was an artist," Godin said. "The second guy was a plumber."
The Famous Entrepreneurs Series was launched in 2006 to generate economic growth through interaction between local business and academic leaders. This year's series included Larry Kramer, founder of Marketwatch.com.
Godin's latest book, "Poke the Box," invites readers to take initiative in their jobs and lives. In the book, he acknowledges that risk-taking is both scary and rewarding. "Fear is proof that you're on the right track," Godin said Tuesday.
Contact Alaina Potrikus at 470-3252 or firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Blog Guy, I mainly come here for your coverage of really bad fashion. You do show us ALL the worst creations, right?
Oddly Enough Blog
Sizzling hot fashions from a cold planet
Blog Guy, I have a complaint.
Like many of your readers, I mostly come here for news about fashion on the planet Neptune, but you haven't had any since last February. Back then, you said fashion photos from the Hubble Telescope showed krunkwads were getting longer for the next season.
Fashion models, name your poison…
Here we go again, Lamar. We've got a major fashion show coming up, and the cost of paying good models would bankrupt us. Have you found a source for bargain-priced chicks, like you usually do?
Fashions for a more forgettable you…
Blog Guy, I need some of your famous fashion advice.
I'm in a business I'd rather not name, but it's in my best interest for certain people not to be able to find me. Am I clear so far?
Fashion models are fit to be tied?
Fashion has its ups and downs…
Okay Lamar, you've done some pretty strange stuff to save money on our fashion shows, but this time I'm totally confused.
Fashion models, hither and yawn…
Quick quiz: The bewildered and confused young women seen here…
a) just can't understand why they had to get up at noon on a Friday.
b) have just been asked if World War I was fought before or after World War II.
c) have been told they've won a dinner date with somebody named Lamar, and they are wary.
Fall fashions? Your slip is showing…
Johnson, get your butt into my office! You call yourself a news photographer? You've covered the fashion show all week, and not a single shot of a model falling down!
Fashion creations to die for?
Okay Lamar, business hasn't picked up at all, so I hope you REALLY saved money on today's fashion show. We're just about broke.
Manure couture: worst men's fashion
Okay, we all had our laughs yesterday at the year's worst women's fashions.
Today's topic, awful new men's fashions, is a bit more personal and painful.


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Stirling Albion 0-3 Saints
Report of match Reporter Stuart Gillespie
Saints kicked off their pre-season friendlies with a convincing three goal victory over Stirling Albion. Mark Corcoran opened the scoring before a Ryan McCay free kick and a Stewart Kean penalty completed the scoring.Saints had a trialist playing for some of the match, believed to be a tall, Israeli striker. It seems he started the match well before fading out of things, so it will be interesting to see what happens from here.
Gary mason and Mark Howard made their first appearances in Saints colours and the starting 11 was: Howard, Reid, McCay, MacAusland, Potter, Mason, Brady, Trialist, Corcoran, Burke, Kean.
A reasonable result with that team, although Hibs did beat them 5-0 on Saturday!
The next friendly is on Thursday night against Newry City.


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Patricia Slagle
SALEM – Patricia Ann Slagle, 62, of Salem, went to be with the Lord surrounded by her loving family and friends Wednesday evening, April 23, after a lengthy battle with kidney disease.
Patricia was born on November 26, 1951 in Fallbrook, CA, a daughter of James Edward and Jane Ann (Weisenberger) Murray. She was a 1970 graduate of South Range High School.
Patricia enjoyed cooking, vegetable gardening, and cats. She was of the Protestant faith.
She leaves to cherish her precious memory her son Ben of North Lima; her son's father and step-mother, Carl and Cheryl Slagle of Leetonia; her adopted family Linda and Roger Clay of Salem, Jessica Hazel, Corey Rittenour, and Annabella Rittenour; uncles John Curatolo of North Lima and Bob Wilush of Greenford; aunt Twila Krill of Seattle, WA; cousin Jim Graham and his wife Joann of Canfield; and her cat Blackie.
Patricia was preceded in death by her parents and her cherished cats Angelpuss and Mister.
Memorial services will be held on Friday, May 2 at noon at Seederly-Mong and Beck Funeral Home, 11500 Market Street, with Andrew Gangi officiating.
The family will receive friends on from 10 a.m. – noon at Seederly-Mong and Beck Funeral Home, 11500 Market Street, North Lima, two hours prior to the service on Friday.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations may be made in Patricia's memory to West Side Cats, 2217 Mahoning Ave, Youngstown, OH 44509; or the National Kidney Foundation, 2800 Corporate Exchange Dr. Ste 260, Columbus, OH 43231-8617.
The Seederly-Mong & Beck Funeral Home in North Lima, Ohio has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Family and friends are invited to visit www.seederly-mongandbeck.com to sign the guestbook or send private condolences.


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Truxton, NY— The Cortland County Sheriff's Department has identified the motorcyclist who died Thursday afternoon in a crash on Route 91 in the Town of Truxton. He is Jesse L. Leonard, 30, of Truxton.
The crash occurred on Route 91 at 4:45 p.m. Deputies said the cyclist's bike was traveling north when it left the east side of the road.
Although Leonard was wearing a helmet, he died of injuries sustained during the crash.
The crash is under investigation.
The Truxton Fire Department, Smith Ambulance and the New York State Department of Transportation responded to the scene.


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Is it ever OK to lie in a job interview?
In this lesson, which is based on two articles from Business Spotlight magazine, a former recruitment director and a director of a top employment website offer differing views on whether candidates should lie in job interviews. Teacher's notes cover strategies for staging complicated tasks. Student activities include summarizing the text and writing and answering comprehension questions.
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[Previous] | [Session 31] | [Next]
W. D. Cochran, R. Wittenmyer, M. Endl (U.T. Austin), A. P. Hatzes (TLS Tautenburg)
We present complete results from Phases I and II of the McDonald Observatory Planet Search (MOPS) Program. The MOPS is a high precision radial velocity survey for Jovian planets in orbit around nearby stars. Phases I, II, and III all use the coudé spectrograph of the McDonald Observatory 2.7m Harlan Smith Telescope. Phase I of the MOPS program began in 1989, and used the telluric O2 band near 6300{Å} as the velocity metric. In 1992 we migrated to Phase II, in which we switched to use of an I2 cell in order to improve the velocity precision and instrument stability. Both Phase I and II imaged a single order of an echelle grating onto a TI 800 \times 800 CCD. (The current Phase III uses a multi-order cross-dispersed echelle grating with a TEK 2048 \times 2048 detector.) Here we show all of the Phase I and II results. We use these results, combined with Phase III data where appropriate, to compute mass limits on planetary companions as a function of orbital period for all of our target stars.
[Previous] | [Session 31] | [Next]
Bulletin of the American Astronomical Society, 37 #3
© 2004. The American Astronomical Soceity.


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The man shot in the hand by Jersey City police after allegedly trying to run over a cop made his first appearance in court yesterday on the charge of attempted homicide and his attorney objected to the use of deadly force.
"Based on my very preliminary investigation, that it was a justifiable shooting is highly questionable," said Union City attorney John Lynch after the court appearance of his client, Joshua Lopez, 20, of East Midland Avenue in Kearny.
Lopez said nothing during yesterday's hearing and bail was not set.
Lopez was hospitalized after being shot in the hand by Police Officer Ernest Vidal on Saturday. His right hand was bandaged or in a cast yesterday when he appeared in Central Judicial Processing Court in Jersey City via video link from the Hudson County Jail in Kearny.
At 2:25 p.m. Saturday, Lopez was behind the wheel of a Chevy Cobalt parked illegally on Linden Avenue East near Route 169 when Vidal and his partner, both in uniform, pulled over their marked police car in front of it, police said.
As Vidal approached the Cobalt on foot, Lopez backed up, pulled out and drove at the officer, trapping him against the police car, officials said. Vidal fired four rounds, with one bullet striking Lopez's hand, officials said.
Lopez sped away and turned up at Trinitas Hospital in Elizabeth, but Jersey City police tracked him down.
Read more in tomorrow's Jersey Journal.


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All hotels in Paris, France
1 room, 2 adults
36 Rue Notre Dame De Lorette, Paris, Paris, 75009, France, 1-877-214-4288
Hôtel Lorette - Astotel - Paris
Lowest price
available on 11/01/16
Situated in Paris City Centre within a 15-minute walk of Theatre Mogador and Moulin Rouge, Hôtel Lorette - Astotel is a 3-star city center Paris hotel. Staying here, you'll also be within a short walk of Galeries Lafayette and Paris Opera.
Free WiFi, dry cleaning/laundry and an elevator (lift) are offered at this hotel. Multilingual staff at the 24-hour front desk can provide tour/ticket assistance.
Free WiFi, dry cleaning/laundry and an elevator (lift) are offered at this hotel. Multilingual staff at the 24-hour front desk can provide tour/ticket assistance.
See all 125 Venere.com reviews
Delicious food
Great location
Tasty breakfast
Value for money
Best value for money
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating: 4.5
From 1,001 reviews
Hôtel Lorette - Astotel - Paris
Hotel Info: 1-877-214-4288from $114
- Standard Single Room
- Standard Double Room
- Superior Double or Twin Room
- Standard Double or Twin Room
- Standard Twin Room
- Superior Twin Room
- Superior Double Room
Also popular with travelers from the USA
At a glance
Key facts
Hotel size
- This hotel has 84 rooms
- Check-in time starts at 2 PM
- Check-out time is noon
Required at check in
- Credit card or cash deposit required
- Government-issued photo ID required
Travelling with others
- Pets not allowed
- Free WiFi in public areas
- Free WiFi in rooms
- No parking
In the hotel
Food and drink
- Buffet breakfast daily (surcharge)
- Snack bar/deli
- Room service (during limited hours)
- Coffee/tea in a common area
Things to do
- Bicycle rentals nearby
- 24-hour front desk
- Concierge services
- Tours/ticket assistance
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Free newspapers in lobby
- Luggage storage
- Multilingual staff
- Elevator/lift
- Terrace
- Accessible bathroom
- In-room accessibility
- Roll-in shower
In the room
Home comforts
- In-room climate control (air conditioning)
- Air conditioning
- Iron/ironing board (on request)
Sleep well
- Blackout drapes/curtains
- Soundproofed rooms
- Premium bedding
Freshen up
- Private bathroom
- Free toiletries
- Hair dryer
Be entertained
- Flat-screen TV
- Satellite TV channels
Stay connected
- Desk
- Free WiFi
- Phone
- Daily housekeeping
- In-room safe
Hôtel Lorette - Astotel - Paris's small print
Also known as
- Hôtel Lorette
- Hôtel Lorette Opéra Astotel Paris
- Hôtel Lorette Opéra
- Hôtel Lorette Opéra Paris
- Lorette
- Lorette Opéra
- Lorette Opéra Paris
- Lorette Opéra Astotel
- Lorette Opéra Astotel Paris
- Hôtel Lorette Opéra Astotel
Additional policies and fees may apply when booking more than 5 rooms. For more details, please contact the office using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Mandatory fees
You'll be asked to pay the following charges at check in or check out:
- A tax is imposed by the city: EUR 1.65 per person, per night
Optional extras
Buffet breakfast is offered for an extra charge of EUR 10 per person (approximately)
We have included all charges provided to us by this hotel. However, charges can vary, for example, based on length of stay or the room you book.


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When Target Corporation wanted to seek new ways to incorporate sustainability into the merchandising of some of its product lines, it looked to teams of business students at The University of Texas-Pan American for some fresh ideas and solutions.
Three student teams in the Product & Brand Strategy marketing class of Dr. Justin Gressel recently shared $4,000 in cash prizes provided by a Target campus grant for their winning proposals.
The first place team, which won $2,500, included students Jasmine Garza, Michael Mason, Carlos Salas, and David Tamez. Their case focused on improving Target's current sustainability awareness among the community and within their company, by implementing a marketing campaign named "Target Tips." The Target Tips, intended to address sustainability, would be placed in the corporation's current promotional tools including advertisements and its website, as well as in in-store locations. Their campaign also included a logo incorporating Target's universally-familiar red circle with a silhouette-like image of a tree in the middle to identify sustainable products and information on sustainability benefits.
Garza, a senior majoring in marketing, said conducting the extensive research required to develop a successful campaign was challenging.
"Target has been a very successful company. We wanted to make sure that the campaign fit their 'edginess and uniqueness' and that it could easily be implemented," said Garza, who felt her team's presentation was a winning one because it was realistic and affordable.
Garza also credited her team's success to the useful information gleaned from Target managers who met with them several times and to the knowledge they gained in their marketing classes.
"Classes that seem like just information finally turned into useful tools. It was great to finally get to apply all these long hours of studying into a company," she said.
Members of the second place team, which won $1,000, were Martha Davila, Victoria Garcia, Perla Gonzalez and Stuart Macinnes. The third place team won $500 and included Orlando Davila, Montserrat Frausto, Tiffany Robles, Cesar Vigil and Sarah Weber.
Gressel said the project fit in well with his branding class, which focuses on how to achieve distinctive positioning of a brand.
"Marketing is more than just saying nice things about your brand, it's also making your brand into what you tell people it is. Therefore, the students had to not only come up with the means to communicate Target's sustainability, but they also had to come up with concrete ideas to actually make Target more sustainable," he said. "What I liked about this project in the context of my branding class is that students had to deal with factors like costs and the feasibility of implementing new ideas, as well as potential impact of ideas. Those factors provide greater motivation to carefully construct a realistic, consistent, relevant, and high-impact branding campaign."
Marianella Franklin, UTPA's director of Sustainability Programs, said she appreciated the support Target provided to help the University incorporate sustainability into the curriculum it offers.
"Target's program gave our college of business students the opportunity to practice realistic marketing methods during the course project. This is instrumental as UTPA prepares its students for their professional journey seeking 'green' jobs," she said.
David Tollar, senior field campus recruiter for Target based in Houston, said he is proud of Target's strong partnership with UT Pan Am in the classroom, with faculty and staff and in community programs. He said Target leadership teams met with case study student teams throughout the semester to provide an overview of Target's corporate culture and organization and solicit questions from students but also to encourage the teams to make their own conclusions and solutions to the case. Tollar said Target has incorporated key changes to processes and procedures from students' feedback on case study projects.
"The case study project gives students exposure to actual challenges retailers face in today's competitive marketplace and incorporates classroom learning into real world business challenges that students appreciate and enjoy," he said. "The competition is a great experience for students and allows Target to achieve two major objectives: recruit talented UTPA students to Target and hear some solutions to our business challenges. It's a win-win for us."
For information on ways to support the College of Business Administration or other UTPA programs, please contact the UTPA Development Office at (956) 665-5301.


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"I'd have to clean the grease from my fingernails," he said, recalling when the aviation museum in Portage opened to the public in 1979. "It used to be a hangar full of old planes."
Ellis, whose retirement at the end of the month will end his 35-year career with the Air Zoo, has helped transform that small collection of planes into a more than 120,000-square-foot facility that is just as much a theme park as it is a museum.
Ellis, a former aviation mechanic, was the first employee hired by the founders of the museum in 1977. It began as a place to collect, restore and fly World War II era airplanes, Ellis said. The museum drew just 3,000 people in its first year open to the public.
By 1997, the Air Zoo had grown to become one of the major aviation museums in the country with a collection of 80 aircraft, drawing about 45,000 people a year. But it was in that year that Ellis and his staff made a decision that would change the game for aviation museums.
"Quite simply, we broke all the rules," he said. "It finally occurred to me in the middle of the night one night that we could create a museum that had the appeal of a family attraction or theme park."
Not everyone was supportive of the idea to market a museum as an entertainment attraction.
"I remember being ushered out of a room of museum professionals when I suggested we act like we were in the entertainment business rather than the education business," Ellis said.
But since adding full-motion flight simulators, a 4-D theater and indoor amusement park-style rides, the Air Zoo has tripled its attendance. The museum drew 120,000 people this year.
"Sixty percent of them haven't looked at an airplane before," Ellis said.
That's what sets the Air Zoo apart from most aviation museums. Instead of drawing just flyboys and history buffs, the Air Zoo sees students, mothers and young children come through the doors.
"Aviation is a wonderful story and we get to tell that story to everyone," he said. "One of my favorite things is to see kids jumping up and down in the parking lot excited to come inside."
Ellis played a key role in the Air Zoo's most recent expansion in 2011 -- a 50,000-square-foot East Wing that features a new space exhibit, World War II naval aviation gallery, women Air Force service pilots exhibit and a library.
"What I've enjoyed most is seeing the growth and changes we've seen here," he said.
Ellis said his replacement, Troy Thrash, will continue the museum's momentum. Thrash, 42, currently serves as the executive director and CEO of the Da Vinci Science Center in Allentown, Pa.
"My sense is the he will embrace the community and the vision of moving the museum forward," Ellis said.
Thrash was hired after a nationwide search by the Air Zoo board of directors.
"I am honored to be selected to build upon this strong foundation, working with partners in all sectors to realize the vision of becoming the most influential air and space experience in the world," Thrash said in a statement.
Ellis, meanwhile, said he is looking forward to the opportunity to rest and "decompress" when he retires.
Aaron Mueller is a public safety reporter for the Kalamazoo Gazette. Contact him at firstname.lastname@example.com or 269-568-3867. Follow him on Twitter.


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Ronald Reagan once pointed out, "It has been said that politics is the second oldest profession. I have learned that it bears a striking resemblance to the first."
Now that the strike is finally over at St. John's airport, NDP MP Ryan Cleary no longer has to negotiate his way around large-belly moose in Terra Nova National Park on his way to Gander airport en route to Ottawa in search of that fresh air beyond the overpass.
But it appears the next item on his political radar is the fence down at the harbour in "The City of Legends."
What a fellow wouldn't do for a few cheap NDP votes?
Now don't get me wrong, Cleary is not sitting on the fence, he simply wants it removed.
But according to Port Authority CEO Sean Hanrahan, the harbour needs both the fence and around-the-clock security if it wants to stay an offshore oil seabase and remain an internationally accredited port.
After all, like it or lump it, we live in a post 9/11 world.
Hanrahan also said, "The plan was always to live up the ISPS Code (the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code) which we are mandated to."
"Canada", he said, "is a signatory to this code, and there's not a single Canadian port authority in the country that doesn't live up to this code."
Case closed.
Besides, they say, good fences make good neighbours. But that may only apply to folks beyond the overpass.
Aren't there more important and pressing issues going on in this province other than a stupid fence at St. John's harbour?
Like, for example, whose pockets are being padded just a few feet away up at Atlantic Place on Water Street?
Why would you fork over $2 million for a space just to warehouse a few computers? Even the transitional school board chairman, Lorne Wheeler, said that he did not know anything about this $2 million expenditure.
An order-in-council posted on the provincial government's website indicates the Eastern School District will lease 22,646 square feet in Atlantic Place at $48.11 per square foot. That's more than
$1 million per year for over half an acre of office space.
Average Class A office space in St. John's is $20.50 per square foot and average Class B office space is listed at $16.64 per square foot.
All this is for what? For the School district to keep a "million-dollar view" (The Telegram, July 6).
Meanwhile, Education Minister Clyde Jackman wants to rip the guts out of Nova Central School District, Western School District and Labrador District School Board and to put the lot in St. John's, the most easterly point in North America except Cape Spear.
We need a fence alright, but not at St. John's harbour, but rather a few yards east of Chance Cove on the TCH, on that bog there just before the big rock cut on the Doe Hills.
That should work perfect!
Former Toronto MP Don Blenkarn once said, "Newfoundland, tow it to sea and sink it."
I think he meant the "Avalon."
Terry Burry


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Klubert Killing Case Goes to Grand Jury
A Norfolk, Va., grand jury will be asked to decide whether a sailor from Wisconsin should be tried for the March 9 shooting death of his shipmate, Yorkville native Kristopher Klubert.
Police allege Klubert, 25, was shot in the face by his shipmate, Austin T. Greening, 22.
Greening remains free on $25,000 bond on charges of second-degree murder and using a firearm in commission of a murder after a Commonweatlh District Court in Norfolk found probable cause to send the case to the grand jury.
The two men, said to be friends, served with the U.S. Navy on the USS Carter Hall. They were due to ship out on a new deployment the morning after Klubert's death. Greening had been a guest at the Klubert family home in Yorkville, authorities said.
Witnesses say the two had been playing video games and handling several guns known to have been in the residence at the time of the shooting. 911 callers put the time of the shooting around 7 p.m.
Police detectives and a cooperating witness who testified Wednesday suggested the two men began arguing, "possibly over money," and the situation escalated, culminating in Klubert's shooting death, said Amanda Howie, director of communications for the Office of the Norfolk Commonwealth's Attorney.
Greening was represented by Norfolk-based attorney James Broccoletti, who contends the two men were very close and described Klubert's death as a tragic accident.
Howie said the grand jury is expected to convene next Wednesday.


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Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
September Orientation Events
Aug 19/11
Graduate Student Orientation & Teaching and Professional Development Conference
Laurier: You Belong Here - Graduate Student Orientation 2011
September 7, 2011
The Wilfrid Laurier University Graduate Student Orientation (WLUGSA) runs a full day of orientation events for all incoming graduate and professional students, with speakers and valuable information on everything from student services, financial aid and the health plan to student life and how to succeed as a graduate student.
For more information visit the WLUGSA site. Select Orientation 2011 in the menu to the left and the complete program for the day. Registration is required; please use this link: Registration.
Teaching and Professional Development Conference
September 8, 2011
The Office of Teaching Support Services will be hosting the Teaching and Professional Development Conference (formally the Teaching Assistants Conference). Offered annually to graduate students and post-doctoral fellows as well as new and returning undergraduate and graduate teaching and instructional assistants (TA's/IA's), this event provides an opportunity to:
- network with peers and build community
- develop teaching and learning skills
- learn from the experiences of seasoned TAs
- engage in professional development opportunities
View all Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies news
View all Laurier news


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Tax Time: Let the Phishing BeginThreat Research
This post was authored by Earl Carter and Craig Williams. With the April 15th US tax deadline onlyRead More
Video – The Great Equalizer in Future Tax SeasonsVideo
April 15th, what does this day mean to you? For most U.S. citizens,Read More
The Misalignment Between The Economic Success of Local Government and Their ResidentsGovernment
As you can see from some of the other posts here, at the request of the US Conference ofRead More


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MUSKEGON, MI – One of two men charged in the Dec. 21 armed robbery of Bob-Hi Lanes during a poker tournament has been sentenced to prison.
Muskegon County Circuit Judge Timothy G. Hicks this week ordered Donald Kroll, 18, of Muskegon Heights to prison for between 12 and 30 years. Kroll pleaded guilty to armed robbery May 7.
Kroll's co-defendant, Jerome Parker, is scheduled for trial July 16 on the same charge before Hicks.
Officers were dispatched to Bob-Hi Lanes, 2930 S. Getty St. in Norton Shores, at 1:20 a.m. Dec. 21 where two masked men -- at least one armed with a handgun -- had robbed members of the White Cloud Lions Club during a poker event, police said.
The men demanded cash and ran westbound from the building with an undisclosed amount of money, police said.
Email John Hausman at firstname.lastname@example.com or follow him on Twitter at @johnshausman


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A group of 25 charter members formally constituted the First Presbyterian Church on June 18, 1826, just three years after the city of Macon was chartered. Since 1858, when the present structure was completed, its spire, soaring 183 feet above the street, has dominated the downtown section of Mulberry Street. Today, with a congregation of more than 1000 members, the church continues to seek God's blessing and guidance as it works to advance His kingdom through worship and proclamation of the Gospel.
Our Vision
To make disciples in Macon to reach the world for Christ
Our Mission
Love God, Love Others, and Serve People
We are committed to making disciples in Macon that will reach the world for Christ. This means that we recognize Jesus as the King of every area of our lives! This includes where we live (our home and neighborhoods), where we work (our classroom or office) and where we play (our local gym or baseball field). We long for you to join us as we seek to grow in our Love for God, Love for Others, and Service of the People in whose lives God has placed us. Please look around this site for the various ways that you can get involved in what God is doing here at FPC.
Click here to view our staff page and contact information.


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It's been an impressive couple of weeks for the top shooting guard prospects in the country. This is a strong position at the college level, and a shallow one in the pros.
Though two of the top prospects in America are shooting guards, both have completely different games and go about getting points in completely different ways.
It's also possible that any one of the next eight prospects gets taken somewhere in the first round.
To clarify, we've declared Marcus Smart and C.J. McCollum point guards, and Jamaal Franklin a small forward, so they won't be on this list.


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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Two weeks after the Staten Island Diamonds girls' 10-year-old team won the U.S. Junior National Showcase for basketball, Borough President James P. Molinaro congratulated the team, coaches and director, and parents at Borough Hall in St. George.
"You put Staten Island on the map," he said of the team, the first from Staten Island to win the fifth-grade age group's showcase championship, accomplished with a 6-0 record.
The team's coach, Robin Dolan, called the girls "the best group of kids I've ever seen on Staten Island."
"The kids worked very hard. ... We practice all year," the coach said, adding, "The Staten Island Diamonds is an AAU program that does groom high school basketball players. [Many] girls that are Advance all-stars, that probably will turn out to be Division II, if not higher, ballplayers all came from the Staten Island Diamonds."
The Diamonds beat out 20 teams from across the East Coast to capture the championship.
Joe Loughran, director and founder of the Diamonds Basketball Organization, said the team members were selected after a series of tryouts for this spring and summer league.
"Our goal is to compete, give the girls the proper training and teach them how to play the game so that they can move to the next level," he said.
The team's 10 members were euphoric as Molinaro distributed personalized awards to each of them.
One champion, Sophie DeMauro, said, "It means so much because he honored us, and I feel so special."
Ms. DeMauro's mother, Heather DeMauro, is the team's assistant coach and works in the borough president's office.
Denise Priolo, another player, said the team worked hard and practiced year-round, sometimes four or five days a week.
"It's an honor to be here because I never thought it would go this far," she said.
The Diamonds defeated the Maryland Sureshots, 26-18, in the showcase final, played in Hershey, Pa.


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How to tie an Arbor Knot
How to tie the Arbor Knot for fixing line or backing to the reel spool. A very quick way of attaching a new spool of backing or line to the 'arbor' or spool of a reel. Make sure to pull on the knot once completed to be sure it does not slip!
Tying Instructions
1. Before attaching the backing to the spool, or arbor, make sure that your reel has been set-up for your preference of right or left-hand wind.
2. Start by tying a single thumb or overhand knot, in the tag-end of the backing. Now take this end of the backing and thread it over the spool, round the spool and out again, between the spool and the reel frame. Make sure that the backing goes in and out of the right place.
3. Take the knotted tag end and use this to tie an overhand knot around the the standing part of the backing. Before tightening this knot, work the loop as close to the arbor as you can and then tighten it. The first knot that you tied will act as a stopper knot for the second.
Graphics of knots drawn by Tim Pegg of Thilmcraft Graphics. E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
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