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8 charged in $45 million ATM fraud scheme
(New York, NY) -- Eight hackers are facing federal charges for allegedly scheming to steal millions of dollars in two massive cyber attacks. Federal prosecutors in New York say the defendants hacked into global financial institutions, stole prepaid debit card data, and eliminated withdrawal limits. That data was then sent worldwide, leading to about $45 million in losses. The eight defendants are accused of taking nearly three-million dollars for themselves.
Seven of the eight defendants are from Yonkers, New York. The eighth defendant was murdered late last month in the Dominican Republic. They face charges including money laundering, conspiracy to launder money, and conspiracy to commit access device fraud.


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Alan Jackson sings title song to new Seth MacFarlane movie
Alan Jackson has a new song out. The country star sings the title track to actor-comedian Seth MacFarlane's upcoming film, "A Million Ways to Die in the West."
MacFarlane specifically chose Jackson for the song. "A Million Ways to Die" is available now as a digital single. It'll also be included on the film's soundtrack, which will be in stores on May 27th. MacFarlane and Charlize Theron "A Million Ways to Die in the West," a western comedy set in Arizona in 1882. The movie will open in theaters on May 30th.

subset: commoncrawl


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What was the first thing Kim Kardashian did after birth?
Kim Kardashian revealed that the first thing she did after giving birth to babyNorth West was… look at her vagina.
On Sunday's eventful episode of "Keeping Up With the Kardashians," Kim told Khloe, "When I came back from the hospital, the first thing I did was go and look at my vagina in the mirror."
"It looks better than before," Kim happily shared.
The reality star was also very excited that her body was getting back to its normal shape after giving birth, telling Kourtney, "As long as I have my ankles and feet back, I am loving life."
Check out the video below!


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PHOTO: Ashlee Simpson's engagement ring
Listen to Ashlee Simpson on iHeartRadio
Lovebirds Ashlee Simpson and Evan Ross are ready to walk down the aisle. They recently announced their engagement, posting a photo of the two with Ashlee flashing the ring - but we have an up-close-and-personal shot of the dazzling sparkler!
This is not your average engagement ring. Ashlee's rock is from designer Neil Lane and features a unique design, throwing some color into the mix.
Evan reportedly popped the question while the couple was vacationing in Hawaii.
Congrats again to the happy couple!
Photo Credit Neil Lane Jewelry & Getty Images


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Chris Christie's Delicate Social Issues Dance
By now, everyone knows how to do the Republican presidential hokey pokey: You put your right foot in. You take your right foot out. You put your right foot in and you shake it all about—preferably while railing against immigration reform, Obamacare, gun control, abortion, Big Government, or whatever stew of left-wing evils happens to be roiling Sean Hannity's Facebook page that day.
Later, after assuring the base that you share its no-compromise, anti-Obama rage, you can start working to woo back the electoral center: maybe you don't put your left foot all the way in, but you at least stop shaking the right half of your body quite so violently.
Gov. Chris Christie knows the dance. He's watched the dance. He's sneered at the dance. And now, as he lays the groundwork for 2016, America's "hottest" political leader is ever so delicately attempting to choreograph his own variation.
Over the past week or so, as much of the political class luxuriated in the relative serenity of Congress's summer recess, Christie executed a trio of policy moves on ticklish social issues that raised eyebrows across the political spectrum.
First came firearms: Friday night, the governor vetoed a variety of gun-control bills, including a ban on .50 caliber long-range rifles that he himself had proposed in the wake of last year's Sandy Hook massacre. Gun-rights advocates expressed their delight at Christie's about-face on the issue. Republican operatives, meanwhile, stressed the move's political savvy. As a veteran of the presidential campaign trail reminded me, "The Second Amendment issue is one you simply cannot be on the wrong side of with base voters in early primary states."
Lest anyone think Christie is throwing all in with the wingers, however, on Friday the governor also advocated easing access to medical marijuana for ailing children. Three days later, he ventured onto even trickier political terrain by signing a bill to outlaw so-called gay-conversion therapy for anyone under the age of 18. Whatever your position on gay rights or the toxic quackery of such treatment—which aims to turn gay folks straight and which the American Psychological Association has warned poses "critical health risks"—it takes serious stones for a Republican to support any bill that impinges upon parental rights. Veteran GOP spin doctor Mark Corallo proclaimed himself "puzzled" by Christie's moves and mused, via email, "Not sure why he'd want to start a fight with some of the more highly motivated primary voters."
Read The Full Article On The Daily Beast
More articles from The Daily Beast:
- Was 2012 the Worst Year Ever for Voting Rights?
- Ron Paul Hits Reddit
- Colin Powell Lashes Out at the GOP's Bogus Claims on Voter Fraud
© 2013 Newsweek/Daily Beast Company LLC


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This misting outdoor fan makes a patio or deck as comfortable as an air-conditioned room without being tethered to a garden hose. Encountered in luxury resorts and outdoor cafes, the fan reduces the air temperature by as much as 30� F by gently misting the surrounding area. Its three patented nozzles create micro-fine droplets that feel dry to the touch and evaporate almost instantly, providing refreshing cooling without the soaking spray common with lesser misting fans. A 2 3/4-gallon reservoir holds enough water for up to five hours of continuous misting; the density of mist adjusts with a simple turn of a dial. The 18" fan's high-velocity three-speed motor is waterproof and can oscillate 50�, cooling up to a 500' sq. area. Because flying insects typically avoid wind and moisture, the fan also helps reduce these outdoor nuisances. The fan features weather-resistant powder-coated metal and plastic construction, with two wheels on the base that provide easy mobility. Plugs into AC. 55 3/4" H x 19 3/4" Diameter base. (40 lbs.)
Lifetime Guarantee
The Hoseless Evaporative Cooling Fan (18") comes with The Hammacher Schlemmer Lifetime Guarantee. If this product ever disappoints you, for any reason, you may return your Hammacher Schlemmer purchase for exchange, credit, or refund.
Should you have any questions, we are available seven days a week (8:00 am – midnight EST). Please call 1-800-321-1484 to speak with a specialist or email us at email@example.com to receive a response within three business hours or less.
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(based on 23 reviews)
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Reviewed by 23 customers
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(3 of 3 customers found this review helpful)
Works as advertised
By Marc
from Estero Florida
It's August in south Florida, 95 degrees and humid. This fan works as well as advertised,brought the temperature and humidity down to a comfortable level. My wife and I enjoy sitting on the lanai again.
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
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(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
Just Okay
By Michelle
from Houston, Texas
I purchased this fan for my medium sized backyard in Houston. The mist feature makes the hot humid weather very comfortable, however, the mist regulator does not adequately regulate the amount of water. It is all or nothing. The ground in front of the fan becomes quickly soaked. The tank is advertised to hold enough for several hours. I have yet to get an hour. I am sure if the regulator worked as advertised you could make the water last. The cord is entirely too short. I have to have an extension cord to place the fan optimally. Not really worth the expensive price tag.
Bottom Line No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Hammacher Schlemmer Response: We apologize for your experience with this product. It is our hope that you would allow us to return or exchange this item for you - please contact us at 1-800-321-1484.
kind of pricey but works great
By oneron
from NW Florida
It is important to have the water tank cover tight because the tank is pressurized to force water up to nozzles.
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
By N/A
from New Jersey
Easy to put together. Cools my large deck.
Works very good
By Tato
from San Juan, PR
I use the product in a terrace and works good
lovely works perfectly
By service dog project.
from ipswich ma 01938
we use it in an outdoor patio situation and have had no problem... except i wish they would give you a second or third washer/strainer... twice now i have lost suction with a bent washer otherwise-- perfect.
Works As Advertised
By DarcyG
from Augusta, GA
We use the product on a patio in the morning and evening on hot summer days. The area is shaded during those times. It does a wonderful job of cooling just as described.
Choice between Power vs Noise
By jaysea
from Roseville, CA
I wanted something to cool our 20x20 outdoor patio during our frequent 95-105 degree summer days. When the fan arrived I was glad to see that assembly was easy and the parts well constructed and fit together nicely. This increased my anticipation to get the fan in operation. Much to me and my wife's regret, the fan was way too noisy due to the powerful wind gust it created. It kind of sounded like an air conditioner. It destroyed the peace and serenity of our backyard. We never got to putting water in it so I can't comment about the cooling effect. If the noise won't bother you, this could be just the right thing.
This will blow you away. Almost.
By Mike the bug hater.
from Saskatchewan Canada
Anxious for Summer to arrive so that I can sit outside cool and bug free. Impressive construction, and happy to see ball bearings rather than composite bearings on the fan. Don't recommend moving it by holding fan cage as that would stress the linkage. It would help assembly by mentioning that air and water hoses must be pushed FIRMLY into sockets then testing by pulling back to ensure they are in place.
Great for folks with multiple sclerosis
By Happy Family
from Fairmont, WV
I experienced "swamp coolers" while in Arizona several times and knew they worked well in hot, dry climates. But I live in a hot, humid climate. I've since learned they work well here, too.We bought this because my husband has progressive M.S. and suffers in heat and humidity, but he loves sitting on the porch and watching the birds. This evaporative cooling fan allows him to enjoy the outdoors even in 90+ degrees and humid weather without using any of his other cooling devices. We were both amazed. We set out thermometers and can attest to the fact that it dropped the air temp by 10 degrees and the humidity was clearly lower (oddly enough as water was put into the air). It was much easier to breathe and simply more comfortable in every way.As a result, we have sent one as a gift to his adult son who also suffers from M.S. so he and his family can enjoy their porch near the coast of Virginia.A little pricey, but worth it given the portability (love not having to hook up a hose and the wheels make it easy to push around), the ease of use, and all the features. It would be nice if the power cord were a bit longer, and the fan just a bit quieter. Other than that, so far, so good. We hope to have many enjoyable summers with this fan.
COPYRIGHT © 2017 HAMMACHER SCHLEMMER & COMPANY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. W108147 E. 57th ST • NEW YORK, NY • 10022 • 1-800-_321-1484


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Food Stamp Cuts Hit, Bring Per-Meal Average to $1.40
(NEWSER) – The moment food banks across the country have been bracing for is here: Today, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program loses $5 billion in funding. The cuts will hit across the board, affecting all 47 million people—about 1 in 7 Americans and counting—who receive assistance, dropping the maximum monthly benefit for a family of four from $668 to $632, CBS reports. That's the equivalent of losing 21 meals a month, per the USDA, and brings the per-meal average down 10 cents to $1.40.


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This is the giant-sized Monopoly game that includes playing pieces 150% their normal size and an oversized board. Built with solid wood stained and varnished for a subdued gloss finish befitting wealthy industrialists, the game's 30" x 30" board includes a 20" x 20" recessed well lined with smooth green felt where 3" x 5" Chance and Community Chest cards reside. The well is ideal for rolling the game's 1" cu. dice, ensuring that the oversized gold-toned, metal-plated playing tokens (the thimble is actually the size of a real thimble), wooden green houses and red hotels remain undisturbed on the raised playing surface. (12 lbs.)
Lifetime Guarantee
The Giant Monopoly Game comes with The Hammacher Schlemmer Lifetime Guarantee. If this product ever disappoints you, for any reason, you may return your Hammacher Schlemmer purchase for exchange, credit, or refund.
Should you have any questions, we are available seven days a week (8:00 am – midnight EST). Please call 1-800-321-1484 to speak with a specialist or email us at email@example.com to receive a response within three business hours or less.
Shipping charges noted in parentheses apply in addition to our standard shipping & service.
We're sorry, but gift wrap is not available. Please call 1-800-395-7006 for Premium or Express delivery rates.
Oversized items scheduled for expedited delivery (Premium or Express) may incur additional shipping and services charges because of their unusual size. Please call 1-800-321-1484 for an estimate of S&S charges. International callers, please call 1-513-860-3397.
We're sorry, but gift wrap is not available for oversized items.
Shipped via truck and may require customer assistance upon delivery. You will be contacted to make an appointment for delivery.
We're sorry, but gift wrap and gift cards are not available.
GST still applies and will be charged upon processing. For complete shipping & service charges please call Customer Service at 1-800-321-1484.
May we recommend:
(based on 6 reviews)
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(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
Beautiful AND big
By So
from Quebec, Canada
I bought this for my kids who wanted a grown-up version of Monopoly. It's a truly beautiful piece, the box is well made to store everything efficiently and manage the pieces during play. My only bad comment is that the dice are almost too big for little hands, especially when playing with the red "fast" die.
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
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(2 of 9 customers found this review helpful)
Very satisfied with purchase of game
By Grandmama
from Long Island, NY
I'ts Monopoly !!!!!!! You do not get credit for the game, but you DO get credit for your "giant" idea for making it so large!!!
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
Giant monopoly is a giant hit!
By Flio203
from New Haven, CT
For a family that loves to play Monopoly, this game is heaven. It's beautiful and big and colorful and so much fun. The only downfall that I didn't anticipate is that the board is large and made of wood, so it doesn't fold. We bought this for our friends as well, and they have a huge house with a game room so they leave it out. Different story for us, so we're still trying to figure out where to keep it!
Super-Sized Family Fun
By Punks Don't Mosh
from Fairfield, CT
As a family of nine Monopoly fanatics, this game is perfect for us! It's large enough for the whole family to play! The pieces are also large, so they're easy to spot. It is a really useful novelty piece, and everyone who has come over and seen it has fallen in love. Everyone agrees that this was definitely the best Christmas present out of the whole lot!
Worth every dime !!
By Moe
from Delta, British Columbia
Found the size of all the pieces was an immediate draw....the heavily weighted board stable and the inset in the middle made rolling dice so easy and contained.
Fabulous Monopoly Game
By Loyal Eddy
from Edmonton
I appreciate that you used the postal system for this item.
COPYRIGHT © 2017 HAMMACHER SCHLEMMER & COMPANY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. W106147 E. 57th ST • NEW YORK, NY • 10022 • 1-800-_321-1484


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SHOCK: Four-Year-Old Girls are Pole Dancing at School Now
Parents of children at a primary school in the suburbs of London, England are complaining after they were treated to a pole-dancing exhibition at a school fair.
A four-year-old girl participated in the pole-dancing festivities at Crockenhill Primary School, the Daily Mail reports. Other performers ranged in age up to 12.
"A lot of people were upset about it," a father who endured the pole-dancing routine told the Mail. "They were performing a routine to music in inappropriate clothing and they had children doing it and I just thought, 'this is so wrong.'"
Parents were especially peeved at how scantily clad the little girls were.
"If it was a leotard, fair enough, but for what they were wearing, and having their faces made up, it just wasn't right," the unidentified father said. "I felt like I was entering something quite unsavory."
The mad dad said he and other parents ended up leaving in protest.
School official Sarah Warshow defended the pole-dancing performance.
"We had the dance company come along and they were involved in aerial skills and it's run by someone in our community," Warshow told the Mail.
"There was one performance by the teacher and some by the children," she added. "It's great for the children to keep fit and it's fun as well."
The dance company is Revolutions Pole Academy. Images at the company's website show women dancing on a vertical metal pole as impressively as any stripper.
The pole-dancing songs at Crockenhill included a medley from "The Lion King." A 12-year-old girl staged a solo routine to "Holding Out for a Hero," the 1984 "Footloose" gem by Bonnie Tyler.
Read more from The Daily Caller
Photo: Shutterstock


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Men's basketball
Sure, LeBron James is a physical freak, but since high school he has possessed the understanding of how to keep teammates happy, Keith Dambrot said on 89.7 WKSU this week.
"He's a freak mentally," said Dambrot, James' high school coach at St. Vincent/St. Mary's High School.
When St. Vincent/St. Mary's played a bad team, James would not try to score 50, Dambrot explained. James would try to pass the ball around and develop his teammates' skills, because he knew that those teammates would be essential to winning championships.
It is no surprise that James is playing a phenomenal postseason. When the game matters, James is a sure bet to arrive to the arena with a special passion.
Now that the Cavaliers sit in a 3-1 hole, a lot of fans expect the worst. Considering that this is Cleveland, it's not a bad tactic. Set low expectations and eliminate chances of disappointment.
I really, truly believe Cleveland will win this series. The teams will play tonight in Cleveland. The Cavaliers have only lost three games at The Q all season. If the Cavaliers win, the momentum shifts slightly. And if Mo Williams or Delonte West start hitting shots, the momentum shifts dramatically.
Game Six would become the swing game. Win it, and the series comes back to Cleveland, where the Cavaliers would be favored to advance to the Finals.
I have seen the statistics; teams rarely come back from 3-1 deficits. Let me tell you something else. This isn't the usual team that is down 3-1. This is a team with two home games remaining. This is a team that has been torched by red-hot 3-point shooting, which is a fickle dagger. This is a team with NBA Finals experience. This is a team with the best player in the world.
Yes, it does require a three-game winning streak against the NBA's hottest team. But no step along the way is improbable. If you want to give up on the Cavs as a coping mechanism, I understand that. Disappointment is a bitter beverage. But if you're truthfully analyzing Cleveland's chances, you must hold hope.
I am circulating petitions to run for Stow City Council in the fall.
I have been pondering this decision for a long time. I really think my hometown needs a youthful approach to municipal government. At the same time, it would take a lot of hard work to do the job how I want to do it.
This week, I concluded that this is something I really want to do. Encouraging e-mails from blog readers have helped.
You can join my Facebook group to get updates on campaign developments or follow me on Twitter.
Zips fans will anticipate the Indiana game as a potential landmark victory over a Big Ten team in InfoCision Stadium -- a victory that could pique the interest of lukewarm fans in Northeast Ohio.
No. It's not Ohio State. Or even Michigan State. But it's a midwestern BCS team with name recognition. A win likely will give Akron a winning record, which is rare in the nonconference portion of the schedule. Indiana suffered two defeats at the hands of MAC teams in 2008, so fans' optimism for this game is legitimate.
2008 recap: After starting the season 2-0, the Hoosiers underwent losing streaks of four and five games to finish 3-9. Sandwiched between the skids was the bright point of the season: a 22-19 upset over No. 22 Northwestern. Some other disappointing facts: The Hoosiers first two wins came over Division I-AA teams. Only one player earned All-Big Ten honors -- Jammie Kirlew, a coaches' pick at second-team defensive end. The defense had serious problems stopping the pass. The Hoosiers gave up almost a touchdown more per game than the second-worst Big Ten team. On Nov. 22, Purdue kindly asked Bill Lynch's boys to bite the curb. The Hoosiers obliged, losing 62-10 to end the season.
What they lost: Quarterback Kellen Lewis has another year of eligibility, but he won't play. Lynch kicked Lewis off the team for violating team rules. Lewis' big-play ability was one of Indiana's only weapons. Akron felt Lewis' impact in 2007, when the quarterback scored five touchdowns (three passing, two rushing), and Indiana won, 41-24. Indiana's offense also lost running back Marcus Thigpen, the Big Ten's 10th leading rusher, and receiver Ray Fisher, who caught the 10th most passes per game in the conference. Fisher is still on the team, but he will move to cornerback. Lynch also must replace kicker Austin Starr.
2009 outlook: The good news for Indiana fans is that 18 starters will return. Kirlew was second in the Big Ten with 10.5 sacks last season. He is one of two defensive ends who will anchor the experienced defense. Indiana's situation raises the age-old question, however: Is it really a good thing to have everyone back -- when "everyone" failed so miserably last season? ... With Lewis gone, the job belongs to Ben Chappell, who started three games in 2008, throwing four touchdowns and three interceptions. The entire offensive line returns, so it is likely Indiana will find a running back to replace Thigpen. But the Hoosiers have no chance to break .500 if they don't find some receivers.
How the Hoosiers will test the Zips: Kirlew will be matched up against Akron's only inexperienced lineman, left tackle Jake Anderson. If Kirlew is consistently meddling in Chris Jacquemain's affairs, the Hoosiers' mediocre defense will look stalwart. The Hoosiers offense will move the chains behind its experienced offensive line unless Jim Fleming stacks the box with an extra defensive back.
How the Zips will test the Hoosiers: Indiana struggled mightily to stop the pass in 2008. Its secondary doesn't look much better this season. The Zips' passing game is a strength, so with a few quick strikes, Akron could bury Indiana early. Without experience at receiver, Indiana probably won't challenge the Zips' thin secondary.
Way-too-early prediction: Akron will trade touchdowns for Indiana field goals. Eventually, the game gets out of reach for the Hoosiers. Akron 38, Indiana 20
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Also this... Here is a directory of head coaches using Twitter. In the MAC, Toledo and Eastern Michigan's coaches are using Twitter, apparently as a way to communicate with recruits and fans.
Below are 18 scholarship offerees.
Many of these players are the best of the best. You might be thinking, Akron has no chance. That is true, at least during this part of their careers. As we have seen with DeVoe Torrence, Dale Martin and David Harvey (to name a few), committing to the big boys doesn't always work. Every year, a couple players boomerang back to recruiters they initially shunned.
Much of this information comes from ScoutingOhio.com, which is the best source for Ohio prospects and their highlight videos.
I am slowly becoming an eBay addict. I mean, items can be sooo cheap. And it buying with clicks can be sooo much quicker than driving to the store and looking through aisles.
In the past two weeks, I have bought five useful items for my iPod and cell phone -- all cheaper than $5 (and that includes the shipping). So let's take a look at how the eBay phenomenon translates to Akron merchandise.
Women's basketball
Akron coach Jodi Kest has started tweeting regularly, providing updates on her day-to-day coaching activities. I find Twitter to be a smart way to increase fan interest.
Nowhere in the nation will you find a more highly anticipated game between a Division I-A and Division I-AA team.
On Sept. 12, Akron unlocks the turnstiles at InfoCision Stadium. The first opponent is Morgan State, a Division I-AA team from Baltimore.
The Bears are coming off a 6-6 season in which they boasted the best defense in Division I-AA. (I refuse to call it Football Championship Series, because it's misleading, cumbersome and nobody knows what you're referring to.) Anyhow, Morgan State held every 2008 opponent, including Rutgers, to fewer than 350 yards. The Bears ran the ball well, but only averaged 105 passing yards per game behind former Zip Carlton Jackson.
What they lost: Six Bears earned First-Team All-Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference honors, including the MEAC's Defensive Player of the Year, Jarrell Guyton. Of those six players, Morgan State lost Guyton, an offensive lineman and a defensive back. The Bears also lost their place kicker, punter and two of the top three receivers.
2009 outlook: Morgan State returns two Preseason All-Americans in linebacker Justin Lawrence and offensive lineman Robert Norris. Lawrence logged 17 tackles for loss and eight sacks in 2008. The Bears also retain their 1,000-yard running back Devan James and Jackson, who split snaps with two other quarterbacks last season. Another former Zip, Rodney Etienne, plays defensive back for Morgan State. He played in seven games last season and returned an interception 60 yards for a touchdown.
How Morgan State will test the Zips: Morgan State is an above-average Division I-AA team. Understandably, Akron's emotions will be flying high with opening the new stadium. The Bears will get some first downs behind James. If the Bears add collect a few turnovers and steadily put up points, the Zips' emotions will go from "Let's pound these guys to open The Info" to "Holy crap. We might lose this game and taint a $60 million investment."
How Akron will test the Bears: The Zips know Jackson and his tendencies. They know each of his screen passes are a "pick six" waiting to happen. James is a good running back, but Akron should be able to hold him under 100 yards. (If not, then it's a gruesome harbinger of things to come.) Lawrence is a strong pass rusher, but the offensive line should be a fortress.
Way-too-early prediction: At best, it's a storybook opening for a beautiful new stadium. At worst, it's a grind-it-out win. Akron 33, Morgan State 6
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Last season, Akron's men won their first MAC Track and Field Championship in school history, while the women continued with their dominance in the conference with a third-straight title.
This weekend, Akron solidified itself as the conference's elite program. The men and women successfully defended their titles.
The men won by 19 points over Eastern Michigan. The women bested 2nd place Kent State by 40.5 points. Stevi Large (women's) and Daniel Kinsey (men's) won the MAC Outstanding Field Performance awards. Akron's Dennis Mitchell won the MAC Men's Coach of the Year and Women's Coach of the Year awards.
Multiple athletes will compete at the NCAA Regionals, which are held May 29-30 in Louisville, Ky.
Akron finished its season with a 17-9 loss at Bowling Green.
The Zips (19-33, 12-15 MAC) failed to earn a berth in the eight-team MAC Tournament for the fourth-straight year.
One of Akron's opponents added a prominent name at quarterback.
Greg Paulus, who has played point guard at Duke for four years, will use his final semester of NCAA eligibility to play football at Syracuse, whom Akron will visit on Oct. 24.
As the Gatorade National Player of the Year in 2004, Paulus heard from plenty of recruiters coming out of high school. He will compete for the job with last year's quarterback Cameron Dantley. Ironically, Dantley also has a basketball connection. His father Adrian Dantley is in the Basketball Hall of Fame.
One of the University of Akron's most famous alumni passed up $7.4 million.
After being released by the Washington Redskins, Jason Taylor will return to the Miami Dolphins, where he feels more comfortable. Taylor refused to participate in offseason workouts with Washington, so the Redskins released him. He said, "My heart has always been in Miami," where he will earn $1.1 million, rather than $8.5 million.
Taylor joins fellow Akron alumnus Andy Alleman, who is an offensive lineman with the Dolphins.
On Sept. 5, Akron will commence the most important season in the program's history against Penn State in Happy Valley.
The Nittany Lions finished the 2008 season ranked eighth in the national polls. USC gave them a 38-24 beating in the Rose Bowl. On the whole, it was a season of redemption for the Joe Paterno's team.
What they lost: The defense lost eight defensive players to the NFL, either through the draft or free agency. The most prominent, of course, is defensive end Aaron Maybin, who shot up draft boards and landed 11th overall to the Buffalo Bills. One of the most talented returners on defense is Navorro Bowman, but the first-team all-conference linebacker flunked a drug test, and Paterno is uncertain of his future. On offense, Penn State returns the Big Ten's best quarterback in Daryll Clark and the Second-Team All-Big Ten running back Evan Royster. That's the good news. The bad news is that Penn State lost the best trio of receivers the school has ever seen. Led by third-round pick Derrick Williams, the three receivers will each play on Sundays next season.
Spring season recap: PSU set a school record with 76,500 fans attending the Blue-White game. Despite losing three receivers, the Nittany Lions secondary got "torched" by the newcomers and Clark. Junior receiver Graham Zug, a former walk-on, earned an award for being the spring's most-improved offensive player.
How they will test the Zips: Akron's secondary is young, and Clark is a veteran quarterback. If PSU's receivers are actually as good as they looked in the spring game, it will be ugly. Akron's run defense should be much improved with a new 3-4 scheme and an stable of talented linemen, but it will get the strongest test of the year in Week One against Royster, an elusive back who averaged 95.1 yards per game last season.
How the Zips will test them: Akron's passing game should be a real strength. It should be able to put up points on the Nittany Lions' weak secondary. It will take a strong game from the running backs to sustain drives, however.
Way, way too early prediction: If the Zips running backs are healthy and charging, the game could be close. I wouldn't count on it, but I also don't see a complete blowout. Akron 24, Penn State 44
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Starting Wednesday, I will break down one of Akron's 2009 opponents per week. In the meantime, I will keep you abreast of recruiting news. The Zips have offered scholarships to eight more high school juniors.
Facts are beginning to seep from one of the century's biggest illegal gambling allegations.
Six former Toledo athletes are mentioned in the 20-count indictment against two Detroit businessmen. The facts range from scandalous to slightly funny.
For example, the indictment says that the defendants, Ghazi Manni and Mitchell Karam, tried to recruit an offensive lineman to shave points from the 2005 GMAC Bowl. The alleged scheme fell flat as Toledo won, 45-13. Can we say a few words about the merits of choosing a lineman for this task? Not a quarterback, running back, or kicker? You have to pick the one position with the least direct ability to influence the score.
In addition to allegedly performing with less vigor on the field or court, the players gave scouting reports to Manni and Karam about upcoming MAC opponents, according to the indictment. It's too bad Manni and Karam don't read "Rasor on the Zips." I don't even charge for my predictions. If you even casually follow the MAC, it's easy to be more accurate than Vegas' point spread.
Seriously, though, this is a huge problem for the University of Toledo. Even if some of these athletes were not involved as charged, it is a dark, permanent stain on that Rocket logo.
Men's basketball
Top-10 recruit Adreian Payne is no longer considering Akron, an inside source tells me. Payne's focus has narrowed to Ohio State, Michigan State and Kentucky.
Before assistant coach Jeff Boals left for Ohio State, it was Akron on the short list and Ohio State on the outside looking in. Those teams have switched places. Michigan State, a Final Four team, and Kentucky, with new coach John Calipari, have also surged ahead of some early favorites, such as Akron, Dayton and Xavier.
Keith Dambrot is focusing on filling his vacant assistant coaching job. Once he does, the focus will shift to recruiting for 2011, when the Zips will have four scholarships to give.
Men's basketball
A few weeks ago, Akron was among the finalists for Adreian Payne.
Now, with the departure of his recruiter, Rivals.com removed Akron from the list of suitors for the No. 10 player in the nation.
Zips assistant coach Jeff Boals had been recruiting Payne, a center from Dayton, but Boals took an assistant coaching job at Ohio State two weeks ago. Rivals.com must have heard something from Payne suggesting that the Zips are no longer a legitimate candidate.
For what it's worth, Payne struggled during the King James Shooting Stars Classic. That should have indicated to Payne that he needs to play at a non-BCS school to hone his skills as the No. 1 option, rather than attend a school at which he does not get as many touches. Apparently, that did not happen.
If Payne indeed has closed his consideration of Akron, then Akron's class of 2010 is likely complete. The team will have two available scholarships after next season when Chris McKnight and Jimmy Conyers have exhausted their eligibility. One of those scholarships is going to Dublin forward Michael Green.
The second scholarship is set to shift to Darryl Roberts for his senior season. Roberts was a walk-on player his first two seasons after academic issues forced him to join the team a season late.
If Roberts takes the scholarship, then the recruiting focus becomes even stronger for 2011, when Akron will need to fill a class of four incoming players. The 2011 graduates consist of Steve McNees, Mike Bardo, Brett McKnight and Roberts. The coaches have already offered several scholarships for 2011, including one to Traevon Jackson, son of former NBA player Jimmy Jackson. I will break down the 2011 targets later in the week.
This blog finished third in a statewide competition for the best newspaper-affiliated blog.
The winner and runner-up came from the Columbus Dispatch, one following public affairs and one following the Columbus Bluejackets.
The judges said this about Rasor on the Zips:


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Beyonce celebrates her album success at Dave & Busters
Listen to Beyonce on iHeartRadio
Beyonce celebrated the success of new album plus the holidays) on Thursday night with a private party at Dave & Busters in Times Square. The night was filled with games, friendly competition and of course great music.
The pop diva was joined by her fans and friends and had a million things to celebrate after her self-titled album, BEYONCE went Platinum within one week.
Rapper Drake, jewelry designer Lorraine Schwartz and supermodel Jessica White were among the celebrities that danced the night away with Beyonce. During the party Drake, who collaborated with Blue Ivy's mom on her track Mine, pressed pause on the party and gave a sweet speech where he thanked Beyonce for allowing them to collaborate.
In the video that hit the web, she is seen taking shots with her crew as she playfully points to the camera. Guests had a ball as they played arcade games (including Bey's favorite Connect 4), sipped drinks from their very own Beyoncé cups, and snacked on Beyoncé cupcakes. They even gave out light-up bows like the ones seen in the "XO" video. As "Drunk in Love" blared from the speakers, Bey danced along.
Beyonce also uploaded a few photos on her Instagram of the colorfully decorated Dave & Busters. She even had a cake designed just for the occasion by Cake Boss Buddy Valastro.
Check out the fun times!


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Obama meets Pope, gives him seeds
(NEWSER) – President Obama called himself a "great admirer" of Pope Francis as he sat down at the Vatican today with the pontiff he considers a kindred spirit on issues of economic inequality. Their historic nearly hourlong first meeting comes as Obama's administration and the church remain deeply split on issues of abortion and contraception. Obama arrived at the Vatican amid the pomp and tradition of the Catholic Church, making his way to greet the pope after a long, slow procession through the hallways of the Apostolic Palace led by colorful Swiss Guards and accompanied by ceremonial attendants. The president bowed as he shook hands with the pontiff in the Small Throne Room, before the two sat down at a wooden table in the Papal Library. "It is a great honor. I'm a great admirer," a broadly grinning Obama said. "Thank you so much for receiving me."
Read the full story on Newser.com


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Kelly Clarkson & Mariah Carey sign on for 'Christmas In Rockefeller'
Listen to Kelly Clarkson on iHeartRadio | Listen to Mariah Carey on iHeartRadio
Mariah Carey is set to perform at next month's "Christmas In Rockefeller Center" special.
The star will be bringing her holiday spirit to the annual NBC television event, along with some other newly announced fellow pop singers.
Kelly Clarkson, whose new Christmas album is out now, will be taking the stage as the city's famous tree gets lit as well. Ariana Grande will be performing as she releases more of her own new holiday music in a weekly social media campaign.
Jewel, Goo Goo Dolls, Mary J. Blige, Toni Braxton and Babyface have all signed on as well.
The "Today" show's Matt Lauer, Savannah Guthrie, Al Roker and Natalie Morales will be hosting "Christmas In Rockefeller Center," which airs on December 4th on NBC.
Photo Credit Getty Images


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Getting to know: Birdy
Listen to Birdy on iHeartRadio
At only seventeen years old, U.K. native and indie-pop singer/songwriter Birdy has been making waves across the pond. Known best for her soulful sounds, Birdy's songs give off a melancholic feel, making listeners feel her every emotion.
Growing up in a musical household, Birdy was naturally drawn to music. She first realized her passion at a young age and at seven learned to play the piano. Just a year later, Birdy discovered her love for songwriting, and at age twelve she won a singing competition; it was at that moment everything clicked for her.
Birdy's cover of Bon Iver's "Skinny Love" can be credited for her early recognition. At just 14, her release was played on Radio 1, shared all over YouTube (currently has over 50 million views) and even scored her a record deal.
She tells iHeartRadio, "I chose 'Skinny Love' just because I'm such a big fan of Bon Iver and it is one of my favorite songs. I think just because it's so fragile and something about it really reminded me of my own song writing so I really fell in love with it."
Birdy is not only driven by her passion for music, but is inspired by other artists as well, including fellow Brit John Newman. However she truly believes "amazing music comes from everywhere," …partially because she's a huge Taylor Swift fan. She tells iHeartRadio that T-Swift is actually one of her favorite artists!
With only two albums out, Birdy has already been experimenting with her sounds. Compared to her debut album, her second album, Fire Within has more of a pop feel to it.
We have a feeling that Birdy is only beginning to soar her way to the top.
Listen to "Skinny Love" below.


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WATCH: Britney Spears on the helicopter ride that made her sick
(EXTRA) - Only "Extra's" Mario Lopez with Britney Spears at Universal Studios Hollywood, the day after announcing her residency at Las Vegas' Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Brit telling Mario how she fell ill right before yesterday's big announcement.
Reliving the chopper ride that left her with a serious bout of motion sickness just before her grand entrance to Vegas, she said, "We're up there for 50 minutes, we couldn't circle anymore because we had to stay in one place… we're hovering and the helicopter would drop and kept dropping and I was like 'OH My GOD I'm going to throw up all over everybody.'"
She added, "I was so embarrassed, but we landed and I got off and was able to pull it together."
Spears also revealed details on her new show "Piece of Me." "We wanted the feeling of it to be that when people come, they're in the show with me and they're really there with me, so we're going to have a cool set up for them… so it's a party vibe."
Britney also said she can relate to the attention Miley Cyrus has received since the MTV VMAs. "I remember that age when I was just transferring into my career and doing more controversial things and the energy that you feel, all this chaos going on and she is on fire right now, she's just a ball full of energy."
Brit went on to say that the VMAs is a place to get creative with your performance. "It's a time to embellish a little bit, bring the artistic side of what you do out."
Check out the video to see the gift Mario had for Britney and tune in to "Extra" tomorrow for the full interview.


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Template:U Saucy/Graphics
Photos and Graphics
Manage and edit your photos, create stunning 3D drawings and graphics, or convert between formats.
GIMP (Image Manipulator)
Gimp is a powerful, full-featured, free open-source graphics and image editor, similar to Adobe Photoshop.
sudo apt-get install gimp
- There is an extra set of brushes, palettes, and gradients for The GIMP.
sudo apt-get install gimp-data-extras
- See these instructions to create an alpha transparency layer (transparent background) for any image using Gimp.
Gwenview (Image Manipulator)
Gwenview is the quick image manipulator installed by default in Kubuntu (K menu -> Graphics -> Gwenview Image Viewer). Simple cut-and-paste, resizing, and format conversion are some of the graphics files manipulations that can be accomplished. Install:
sudo apt-get install gwenview
Dia (Diagram editor)
Dia is a free open source GTK-based diagram creation program for Gnome. It is similar to Visio.
sudo apt-get install dia
Kivio (Diagram editor)
Kivio is an open source flow-chart and diagram creation program that is part of the KOffice Suite for KDE. It supports Dia stencils.
sudo apt-get install kivio
Inkscape (Vector Illustrator)
Inkscape Vector Illustrator is an open source drawing program similar to Illustrator and CorelDraw.
sudo apt-get install inkscape
Digikam (Photo Organiser)
Digikam is a comprehensive open source digital photo organiser and editor. Install it:
sudo apt-get install digikam kipi-plugins digikam-doc
F-spot (Photo Organiser)
F-spot is a comprehensive open source digital photo organiser and editor for the Gnome desktop. Install it:
sudo apt-get install f-spot
Google Picasa (Photo Organiser)
Google Picasa is a photo editor and organiser similar to Digikam. It allows uploads to a Google web server for online exchange. For more info, see the Picasa for Linux FAQ. A self-installing .deb file is available at Picasa 2.7 downloads.
Shotwell (Photo Organiser)
Shotwell is a new photo organiser for the Gnome desktop. See these installation instructions.
OpenClipart (ClipArt Library)
OpenClipart is a utility to provide access to a large library of free PNG, SVG, and OpenOffice clipart. It includes a utility for OpenOffice Gallery. Files are installed to /usr/share/clipart. Install:
sudo apt-get install openclipart
It is also possible to only install a single collection (openclipart-png, openclipart-svg, or openclipart-openoffice.org) in case you don't want the entire collection (or the utilities). For example:
sudo apt-get install openclipart-png
Optical Character Readers
Tesseract (Optical Character Reader)
Tesseract is a command-line optical character reader. Install:
sudo apt-get install tesseract-ocr
Ocropus is a document-analysis engine that uses Tesseract. Install:
sudo apt-get install ocropus
Cuneiform (Optical Character Reader)
Cuneiform is an optical character reader. Install (multiverse repositories must be enabled):
sudo apt-get install cuneiform
- Pdfocr is a tool to use Cuneiform for OCR and then to add the resulting text file layer back to the PDF file to make it searchable.
YAGF (Cuneiform/Tesseract GUI)
YAGF is a Qt-based GUI for Cuneiform, Tesseract, and/or XSane. Installation can be from a Debian (.deb) package from GetDeb (see these instructions as well) or by compiling from source downloaded from the original site. (Qt 4.7 or later, already the version with Saucy, is required on your system).
Scanning Utilities
Xsane (Scanning utility)
Xsane is a full-featured scanning utility. Install:
sudo apt-get install xsane
Some users report a "SANE: Error during device I/O" error with HP multifunction printers. See this bug report. If experiencing this problem, verify it in the logs:
sudo nano /var/log/User.log
- If the logs include a line that references the file "libhpmud.so", such as in this example:
scanimage: scan/sane/soapht.c 67: unable to load restricted library: libhpmud.so: cannot open shared object file: No such file or directory
- then try creating the following symlink to fix the issue:
sudo ln -s /usr/lib/libhpmud.so.0 /usr/lib/libhpmud.so
Simple Scan
Simple Scan is a straightforward Gnome-based scanning utility that uses the same SANE backend as Xsane. Install:
sudo apt-get install simple-scan
Skanlite is a lightweight KDE4-based scanning utility included by default in many KDE-based systems. If not, install:
sudo apt-get install skanlite
Gnome-Scan (Scanning Utility)
Gnome-Scan is a simple utility for scanning. Install:
sudo apt-get install gnomescan
VueScan is a proprietary cross-platform scanning program that can be installed in Linux. Some users prefer it for scanning film on older scanners. See these installation instructions.


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WATCH: Morgan Freeman Sucks On Helium During Hilarious Jimmy Fallon Interview
Listen to History of Rap Radio on iHeartRadio
Morgan Freeman has one of those distinctive, unforgettable voices that you just can't mistake for anyone else. The actor appeared on "The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon" this week, and ... well you've never heard Morgan's voice like this before!
He and Jimmy did the entire interview after they inhaled helium! Check out the hilarious interview below:


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McDonald's worker fired after paying firefighters' bill
A New York woman was fired from her job at McDonald's last week after she and coworkers paid for the meals of on duty firefighters.
Heather Levia, 23, was working her morning shift as a manager at McDonald's in Olean, New York when several firefighters came into the restaurant after putting out a house fire in sub-zero temperatures, according to WIVB News 4 Buffalo.
The Olean firefighters ordered $83 of breakfast sandwiches and hash browns and Levia decided to pay for it herself.
"Just because I appreciate everything they do," Levia told WIVB.
Soon after Levia had paid for the firefighters' meals, another department arrived and ordered $70 of food.
Levia, wanting to cover this tab too, sent a text message to her boss to see if the company would pay for it. She told WIVB she thought the company might because she claims they regularly give free meals to police officers who come in.
"It's very common in our store," said Levia.
However, Levia's boss told her no, McDonald's would not donate the food.


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Difference between revisions of "Main Page"
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Revision as of 14:58, 1 August 2007
Your Erlang Community Site
Welcome to trapexit.org, the Erlang community site where you can read news and weblogs related to Erlang/OTP, discuss projects, issues and ideas with other Erlang developers, and read and publish articles and HowTos related to Erlang/OTP.
What is Erlang and OTP?
Erlang is a programming language and a runtime system with strong built-in support for concurrency, distribution and fault tolerance. Originally developed at Ericsson, Erlang was released as open source in 1998.
The Open Telecom Platform (OTP) is set of Erlang libraries and design principles providing middle-ware to develop distributed, fault tolerant, massively concurrent soft real-time systems.
Here is an example of Erlang code:
-module(beersong). -author('BillClementson'). -export([sing/0]). -define(TEMPLATE_0, "~s of beer on the wall, ~s of beer.~n" "Go to the store and buy some more," "99 bottles of beer on the wall.~n"). -define(TEMPLATE_N, "~s of beer on the wall, ~s of beer.~n" "Take one down and pass it around, ~s" " of beer on the wall.~n~n"). create_verse(0) -> {0, io_lib:format(?TEMPLATE_0, phrase(0))}; create_verse(Bottle) -> {Bottle, io_lib:format(?TEMPLATE_N, phrase(Bottle))}. phrase(0) -> ["No more bottles", "no more bottles"]; phrase(1) -> ["1 bottle", "1 bottle", "no more bottles"]; phrase(2) -> ["2 bottles", "2 bottles", "1 bottle"]; phrase(Bottle) -> lists:duplicate(2,integer_to_list(Bottle) ++ " bottles") ++ [integer_to_list(Bottle-1) ++ " bottles"]. bottles() -> lists:reverse(lists:seq(0,99)). sing() -> lists:foreach(fun spawn_singer/1, bottles()), sing_verse(99). spawn_singer(Bottle) -> Pid = self(), spawn(fun() -> Pid ! create_verse(Bottle) end). sing_verse(Bottle) -> receive {_, Verse} when Bottle == 0 -> io:format(Verse); {N, Verse} when Bottle == N -> io:format(Verse), sing_verse(Bottle-1) after 3000 -> io:format("Verse not received after 3 seconds" " - re-starting singer~n"), spawn_singer(Bottle), sing_verse(Bottle) end.
Good places to start on trapexit.org
HowTo documents - Tutorials and Guides for Erlang developers


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Ke$ha sends fans update from rehab
Ke$ha reached out to fans from rehab on Tuesday.
The singer is currently receiving treatment for an eating disorder at a facility near Chicago, with her mom saying Ke$ha thought about killing herself over her issues.
She last tweeted on New Year's Day, but on Tuesday, someone identifying him or herself as Ke$ha's friend wrote from the pop star's account.
This is Kesha's friend. She asked me to tweet an update for her because she doesn't have access to twitter right now
— ke$ha (@keshasuxx) January 21, 2014
The friend continued:
she says "THANK YOU. SOOO MUCH. I'm overwhelmed to tears by all of the love, letters, and support!! I'll be back soon and better than ever
— ke$ha (@keshasuxx) January 21, 2014
ohhh and she can't believe Timber is still number one! "Fck YEAH animals! PARTY ON!!!!"
— ke$ha (@keshasuxx) January 21, 2014
Photo Credit Getty Images


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15 signs that it's more than just the blues
Dim the lights and break out the…eggs? These 10 foods will kick your sex drive into high gear.
Breast cancer is not an inevitability. From what you eat and drink to how much you exercise, learn what you can do to slash your risk.
We take a look at 20 common human body quirks.
Avoid these 8 hard-on-your heart foods.
Bicycling is the new "it" way to get around. Here are 10 reasons to take to the streets on two wheels.


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To most people, a rat is one of the undesirable introductions to Australia by the early settlers. There are however, many Australian native rats; placental mammals that produce live young in an early stage of development. These rats entered the continent in relatively recent times; long after the arrival of marsupials, but still long before Europeans and the introduced Black and Brown Rats arrived. Despite the dominance of marsupials in Australia, many of our native rats successfully established themselves in a range of habitats.
A Bush RatPhotographer / Source: Gary Lewis
The Bush Rat, Rattus fuscipes, is a small compact mammal with an average length of 310 mm (160 mm body + 150 mm tail) and an average weight of 160 grams. The fur is soft and dense, varying from grey brown to reddish brown above and grey to light brown below. The tail length is shorter than the head and body length, which is a useful diagnostic feature. It can be separated readily from marsupials by its typical paired, yellow-orange faced, upper and lower incisors.
Bush Rats are common throughout much of coastal mainland Australia. There are several sub-species, of which the best known is Rattus fuscipes assimilis from the south-east. It occurs in a wide range of habitats from sub-alpine heaths to coastal scrub, wherever there is dense ground cover, but it is absent from the Mornington Peninsula. It prefers a vegetation cover of shrubs and ferns.
Bush Rats have a mixed diet, which includes insects and vegetation such as leaves, fruit, seeds and fungi. This diet aids its survival under such adversity as bush fires. It can survive periods of food shortage after a bushfire by feeding on the rapidly emerging fungi.
The Bush Rat of the southeast is capable of breeding in all seasons, but as a rule does not breed in winter. The usual litter size is five, and in a good season a number of litters may be produced. From a birth weight of about 5 g, the young become independent when they are about four weeks old, and are capable of breeding in the wild at about four months of age.
Bush Rats are widespread and common and are secure in suitable habitat.
Menkhorst, P. and Knight, F. (2001). A field guide to the mammals of Australia. Melbourne: Oxford University Press.
Menkhorst, P. (Ed.) (1995). Mammals of Victoria. Oxford University Press. Melbourne
Strahan, R. (Ed.) (1995). The Mammals of Australia. Reed. Chatswood. N.S.W.
Hi there, thanks for your question – I've referred your question to the Museum's Collection Manager for Birds & Mammals for his advice – we'll get back to you soon with some more information.
Hi Luisa. Authoritative information about how to deal with native species in the home can be found on the Native Plant Plants and Animals pages of the Department of Sustainability and Environment website. Enjoy!
Hello, Heidi. What an interesting encounter! However, according to this webpage at the Australian Museum, it is highly unlikely that the droppings in your ceiling come from a native species. The native rat probably scampered off to some other home - closer to the ground. Hope this helps!
Hi Deb - We checked with our Mammalogy collection manager, and he says that whilst there is no precise data, domesticated rats live on average 2 years, and it is expected that bush rats would have a similar lifespan.
Hi Steph. We have had a chat to our Coordinator, Live Exhibits and Forest Gallery about the babies. He recommends that you get in touch with Territory Wildlife Park, which isn't far from you. They will be familiar with the mammals of the area and the care required if they are a native species. Good luck with the babies!
Hi Rod - The information in our infosheet, and a similar one from the Australian Museum here would indicate that the bush rat's diet includes fungi, grasses, fruits, seeds and insects, with no mention of bird eggs. This press release from Taronga Zoo states that "[the bush rat] doesn't climb trees to raid bird's nests[...]".
Hello! Given the location, a rat with a tail as long as, or longer than, its body is almost certainly an introduced Black Rat, rattus rattus. Despite the name, these rats can vary a great deal in terms of colouring, from a light brown to black.
Hi Robyn. Unfortunately this is not a Bush Rat hole. In suburban Croydon the Bush Rat is absent and they appear to totally avoid human settlement. The hole you have seen was most likely dug by one of the introduced rats, that is one of the Black or Brown Rats. These rats dig holes up to 90 mm diameter, they can climb and will eat almost anything available. Contrary to their name, these rats may be of a varied colour especially about the belly and chest.
Hi Jack and Sam – Museum Victoria offers a free identification service and it would be great if you are able to send us your photos of the rat you saw at Mount Martha. Please read our identification guidelines before submitting your request. We look forward to seeing your pictures!
Hi David - The Museum's Mammalogist inclined to think that the animal you have noticed is the Black Rat. He has advised Bush Rats rarely if ever attend human settlement preferring the natural bush. Since the standard texts do not give a precise indication of where these rodents place their nest it is difficult to get an accurate idea of its placement. Needless to say if the indications are that these rats do not frequent habitation then it can also be assumed that they do not breed there. Rats generally are very fast developers, a seemingly defenceless and blind individual could be out running and feeding quite independently a day or two later; also the female could move the lot if she considers that danger threatens. We hope this information helps!
Hi Marjorie - As the common vernacular suggests the Bush Rat is an inhabitant of bushy areas, they will not enter and especially live in human dwellings. Rats in general have an excellent climbing ability so that can't be used as an indication of species identification. The tail length and ear shape and size should be good ways to identify the species concerned, although I am rather thoughtful of the Black Rat in your instance. Should you still be troubled as to the species is it possible to take an image of the rat and send it through to the Discovery Centre for identification.
Hi Kim. It would be great if you could send an image for us to send to our experts. Please submit your photo and description through our Identifications page.
Hi Janine, our Collection Manager for Mammalogy thinks this is an interesting observation. The fact that they were seen digging and the size almost certainly removes any local Antechinus from the equation, and the size, notes on ears shape and tail length removes the introduced Black Rat. This leaves us with any local native rats; the commonest and most expected are the Bush Rat and the Swamp Rat. These can be separated by, amongst various subtle features, the colour of the feet - dark in the latter species and pale in the former. From what you say I would suspect that they were Bush Rats. These mammals are like other rats in that while principally nocturnal they are known to occasionally leave shelter during the day in search of foods. Had a size not been mentioned and they were larger then another animal for consideration, and a well known hole digger, is the bandicoot.
Hi Janine, our Collection Manager for Mammalogy thinks this is an interesting observation. The fact that they were seen digging and the size almost certainly removes any local Antechinus from the equation, and the size, notes on ears shape and tail length removes the introduced Black Rat. This leaves us with any local native rats; the commonest and most expected are the Bush Rat and the Swamp Rat. These can be separated by, amongst various subtle features, the colour of the feet - dark in the latter species and pale in the former. From what you say I would suspect that they were Bush Rats. These mammals are like other rats in that while principally nocturnal they are known to occasionally leave shelter during the day in search of foods. Had a size not been mentioned and they were larger then another animal for consideration, and a well known hole digger, is the bandicoot.
Hello, Olivia. We referred your enquiry to the relevant Collection Manager who requested a photograph of the animal to offer a positive ID. This can be done via at our Ask the Experts page. Even without a photograph the Collection Manager suspects that the animal is not a native bush rat, as the animal you mention has a paler belly and is active about the residue food left for the possums.
Hi Mary Anne, unfortunately Curators and Collection Managers require an image or specimen in order to provide accurate identifications. Next time you see the critter in the garden, see if you can take a photo, you can then email it in to us here in the Discovery Centre.
Hi Kim, all rats, both introduced and native have the hopping ability. If it was in an urban area such as mentioned here the animal would be either the introduced Black Rat or the introduced Brown Rat.
Hi Ian, we have asked the Collection Manager of Ornithology and Mammalogy and he thinks what you have heard may have been a rat. This noise is often uttered if distressed, such as when caught by a predator (cat, dog, snake...) or trapped. Maybe the animal in question had been injured and was reacting in relation to this.
Don - without knowing if the animal in question is a native or introduced rodent, it is difficult to know what to suggest. One idea might be to relocate the birdseed feeding station away from the car to make it a less convenient feeding spot for the animals in question.
It is worth noting that native rats such as Bush Rats and Swamp Rats generally have more particular diets than introduced rats and mice; and are not renowned for varying their diet from native plants, etc. Wiring is only likely to be chewed by any rodent when all other food resources are exhausted.
Hi Phred, I think its important to know exactly what species of Rat you are describing here; there is a possibility that you may have Black Rats Rattus rattus rather than Bush Rats Rattus fuscipes. As a rule, Bush Rats are not regarded as commensal and as such are unlikely to persist with invading human habitations if their preferred food of forest-dwelling arthropods and plant tissue is in good supply. Also, the colouration you described isn't a relaible guide to distinguish a Bush Rat from a Black Rat, as both are highly variable in colour.
When next you see one, check if the tail of the Rat is longer than the rest of the animal's body, and if it has protruding round ears, if so it is most likely a Black Rat. Alternatively, feel free to send us any photos if you have a chance and we can identify it ; just use the "Contact Us" link at the bottom of this page
Hi Matt. Predators of bush rats are introduced vertebrate species such as cats and foxes, however they appear to be doing quite well as their CSIRO conservations status is 'lower risk'. An interesting article in Journal of Applied Ecology by P Banks Vol 36 Issue 6 Dec 1999, describes research where foxes were removed from bush rat territory and yet it made no significant difference to the population. Their major threats appear to be loss of coastal habitat due to land clearing, or excessive wildfires. Encroachment on their habitat by other animals, such as the Black Rat, is also a potential threat to them.
Hi Sabrina - there are a few issues here; there is a distinction between protected and threatened/endangered species, and the responsibility of the land developers in this case differs greatly depending on which description applies to these animals. All native vertebrates are 'protected' to a degree (in that they are not an introduced pest species), whereas threatened/endangered species have a far greater degree of protection via the Flora and Fauna Gurantee Act.
From your description they could also possibly be Swamp Rats, which is another native Rat species, however neither of these are considered endangered and are not on the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act. We suggest you contact the Department of Sustainability and Environment via http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/ regarding what rodents are on teh Flora and Fauna Guranatee Act.
Hope this helps
Hi Michelle - yes, the Black Rat Rattus rattus does indeed build extensive shallow burrow systems, as does The Swamp Rat Rattus lutreolus and Bush Rat Rattus fuscipes. The burrow alone doesn't help identify which animal made it, unfortunately - if you ever see one of the inhabitants, you can use the information here to identify which type of rat you have.
You can find out lists of mammals found in any particular part of Victoria by using our Bioinformatics site at http://flyaqis.mov.vic.gov.au/cgi-bin/texhtml?form=bio_mammviccom; simply select the grid which includes your area/s of interest and search to find listings of the mammal records in your area.
Hello Brielle
Bush Rats are not kept as pets, their diet and habits are poorly suited to being kept in captiviy. For many native species of mammal a permit is required, you can learn more on this document published by the DSE http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/119053/Application-for-a-Private-Wildlife-Licence-v11-1.pdf
Give a Bush Rat is very similar in appearance to other closely related rodents that are commonly kept as pets such as Black Rats, you may want to consider this as an alternative.
Hi Kyra,
Unfortunately the Discovery Centre cannot provide an identification of the rat with your description. If possible, take a photograph of the rat and submit it through our identification website. We look forward to hearing from you!
Hi Heather - I'm not sure we are the right place to offer help; we may be able to identify the animal if you can send us images, but to offer help in saving it you would better placed contacting an animal rescue service such as Sydney Wildlife, who have a rescue service via their website at http://www.sydneywildlife.org.au/
Hi Jo - to make a full identification we would need to see images of the animal in question, however it is worth noting that the native Bush and Swamp Rats are known from the Newcastle area, as are the introduced Black and Brown Rats. The tail length to body ratio you mentioned may indicate that you have one of the native species, however a formal identification can't be made without clear images. If you have pictures, fel free to send them to us via "Contact Us" at the bottom of this page and we will do our best to help.
Hi Coral - we would need to see a specimen in order for us to provide an identification; the Black Rat Rattus rattus and the two most commonly encountered native rats (R. lutreolus and R. fuscipes) have some degree of burrowing habits, however it is worth noting that the natives are markedly less commensal in habits (i.e., they shy away from human habitations), so on the basis of this it is likely you are describing the introduced Black Rat.
If you are able to get a photograph to us (which you can send us via the "Contact Us" link at the bottom of this page), we will be happy to suggest a more definitive identification if possible.
Hi Glennis, without seeing a clear image of the animal in question it is impossible to be certain of the species you have, but the behaviour you describe doesn't sound like a Bush Rat. Bush Rats are not regarded as commensal (that is, unlike introduced rodents they don't generally associate with human habitations), and also Bush Rat's preferred diet of invertebrates, seeds, fruits, plant tissue and fungi renders them unlikely to be responsible for eating the soap - this sounds more like the behaviour of a Black Rat.
If you are able to send us any images of the animal in question, please do so via the 'Contact Us' link at the bottom of this page and we can see if the identity of the rodent in question can be determined. As a rule of thumb though, if the tail of the animal is longer than the remaining body length, the individual will most likely be a Black Rat.
Hi James - I'm sorry to report that it isn't possible to identify the rat you describe without seeing an image; if you manage to get a clear image of one of the animals, feel free to send it to us via the "Contact Us" link at the bottom of this page. Bush Rats can be quite variable in colour, but so too can the introduced Black Rat. To further confuse issues, another native rat species called the Swamp Rat Rattus lutreolus can also have a grey pelt, but colouration is not diagnostic between these three species as all of them exhibit variability in their pelt colour.
Bush rats have rounded ears, whereas black rats have thin pointed ears;
Bush rats' tails are shorter than their body length, whilst the tails of black rats are as long or longer than their body length.
It's unlikely you'll find a type of bait or a trapping location that would guarantee the capture of black rats alone.
Hi Catherine - whilst it is probably the Black Rat Rattus rattus that you are describing, you should also be aware that the native Swamp Rat Rattus lutreolus is also known from Edithvale and further along the Mornington Peninsula. You are probably right in saying the rats in question aren't Bush Rats Rattus fuscipes (also a native) as they generally don't live in this region, however Swamp Rats may account for some of the rats seen in the Edithvale area.
If ever there is a chance to photograph one of them, feel free to send the picture to us via the 'Contact Us' link at the bottom of this page and we'll see if we can determine which species it is.
Hi Leanne - the so-called 'Marsupial Mice' or Antechinus are in fact very different animals to rodents. Antechinus are only really compared to mice and rats because they are small, furry mammals with long tails - a fairly superficial similarity. Amongst their many difference from rats and mice is the fact that all species of Antechinus are carnivores, and are much more closely related to Quolls and the Tasmanian Devil than any kind of rodent. They also all have a pointed, conical snout, and their tails have hair, taper from the body, and are generally shorter or sub-equal to the rest of the body length. This differs considerably from what you described.
If the mammal you saw had a tail that was thin and noticeably longer than the rest of the animals body, and looked like a rodent, then the liklihood is that it was a Rat or a Mouse. Whilst there are native rodents in Australia, they all generally stay away from suburban areas, preferring dense scrub. More commonly, introduced Rats like Rattus rattus are commonly found in suburban gardens, are active at night and are expert tree-climbers.
We can't be certain without seeing images, but from your description, it certainly sounds much more like a young Rattus rattus than anything marsupial.
Hi Sarah,
There are a number of native rat species but yours is likely to be the Bush Rat (Rattus fuscipes). This species feeds on insects, grains, seeds and fruit. Make sure it's not an introduced Black Rat (Rattus rattus) or Norwegian Rat (Rattus norvegicus). Once in captivity it can be difficult for native rats to readjust to life in the wild, so the best option is to release it where you found it.
Hi Colin,
We're not able to provide identifications from descriptions. We suggest that you snap a photo and submit it to us via our Ask the Experts page.
Hi Lauren, we wouldn't be able to definitively say what is making the burrows from descriptions only. I know its probably very hard to do but if you can get any images of what is going in or out of the burrows you are welcome to email those to firstname.lastname@example.com and we can try and identify them for you.
Some pest control companies do have permits to remove 'nuisance' animals but one of our collection managers said she would be surprised if native mammals eating roots fall under nuisance animals that can be removed, but it could be possible. She isn't convinced it isn't rabbits but again with images of what is making the burrows we can let you know.
Hi Joan,
Unfortunately our experts cannot make an identification without a good photo. You'll just have to be quicker with your camera!
We love receiving comments, but can't always respond.
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The Safina Center
80 North Country Road
Setauket, NY 11733
Eric Graham's passion for developing and bringing transformative sustainable energy technologies to market has led him to start and manage businesses that have touched on every continent. He has engaged in cross-border trade in more than 30 countries, founding and/or growing more than a dozen early and growth stage businesses.
As Director of Residential Energy Efficiency Financing for Next Step Living, Eric develops NSL's new privately funded financial products to enable homeowners to take advantage of the benefits of energy efficiency and renewable energy systems.
Prior to NSL, Eric co-founded and directed the TechBridge program for the Fraunhofer Center for Sustainable Energy Systems (CSE) and established a federally and privately funded grant award initiative for early-stage clean energy companies, U-Launch. Eric also led the development of the Building Technology Showcase at the Fraunhofer CSE, a first-of-its-kind project representing the future of sustainable design and construction, in which leading manufacturers contribute cutting-edge technologies for building-integrated research, development, and demonstration.
Eric holds a Finance & Insurance degree from Northeastern University, and received his MBA from Babson's Franklin W Olin Graduate School of Business. He also holds two globally issued patents covering ultra low temperature refrigeration and transportation methods, using recycled CO2 gas as a refrigerant.


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Yasiel Puig's All-Star chances squashed
Rookie phenom Yasiel Puig won't be an MLB All-Star in 2013 — unless he's named a last-minute injury replacement.
Atlanta Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman topped Puig in the All-Star Final Vote, a fan vote to name the 34th member of both the American League and National League All-Star teams. Freeman received a record 19.7 million votes via online voting, text messages, and Twitter.
Puig — the Cuban rookie who has energized the Los Angeles Dodgers and taken baseball by storm — finished second, despite a flurry of #VotePuig Twitter endorsements on Thursday. Puig reportedly finished with more than 15 million votes.
Freeman led the voting all week, despite many people thinking the Final Vote would clear a pathway through which Puig's controversial All-Star candidacy could come to fruition. But diehard Braves fans — who teamed up with Toronto Blue Jays fans — made sure that didn't happen. The rest of the NL Final Vote standings: Hunter Pence, Ian Desmond and Adrian Gonzalez.
On the other side of the Final Vote: Blue Jays relief pitcher Steve Delabar won the final American League spot with 9.6 million votes. He was followed by (in order): David Robertson, Joaquin Benoit, Koji Uehara and Tanner Scheppers, all five of them relief pitchers.
The Final Vote campaign registered a record 79.2 million total votes with an average of 4,200 tweets per minute during Thursday's Twitter vote. For a cool look at the races, be sure to see MLB's cool map showing where the votes were distributed.
Delabar led AL voting all week. He owns a 1.74 ERA and has given up only 29 hits and eight earned runs in 41.1 innings. Getting elected to the All-Star Game is an exclamation mark on a revived career that, at one point, looked overafter a broken arm in 2009.
But back to the National League race, which was hotly contested and attracted tons of attention — most of which centered around whether Puig "deserved" to be an All-Star because he's only been in the big leagues since June 3. While his numbers are great and his play is exciting, coaches and players alike have said Puig hasn't done enough in that short time to prove he's worthy of an All-Star nod. Here's a comparison of Puig and Freeman's stats:
Puig: .394/.428/.634, 27 R, 56 H, 8 HR, 19 RBIs in 152 plate appearances
Freeman: .307/.388/.470, 49 R, 92 H, 9 HR, 56 RBIs in 340 plate appearances
Puig could still be named to all the All-Star team as a late injury replacement, should another NL All-Star back out. He'd have to be selected either by fellow players or Giants manager Bruce Bochy, who already said he didn't think Puig deserved to be an All-Star.


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Former illegal immigrant used fake Social Security number, sues over job rejections
A Stockton, Calif. man believes his former status as an illegal immigrant, who operated under a fake Social Security number, should not have been held against him when he applied to become a correctional officer for the State of California.
Monday, the Legal Aid Society – Employment Law Center (LAS-ELC) filed suit in U.S. District Court in San Francisco on behalf of Victor Guerrero, 34, against the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) — which twice rejected Guerrero's application to become a corrections officer due to his prior use of an invalid SSN — and the State Personnel Board (SPB), which upheld he denial.
LAS-ELC says Guerrero — who came to the United States illegally from Mexico at age 11 with his parents and obtained an invalid SSN at age 15 — did not know his SSN was fake until he was 17.
The law firm further claims that upon learning his SSN was fake, Guerrero obtained a individual tax identification number to pay his taxes and stopped using the fake SSN when he finally obtained his own real one. Prior to his legalization, Guerrero worked in a variety of service industry jobs.
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Marijuana Milestone: Most Favor Legalization
(NEWSER) – Congratulations, advocates of legal marijuana: You are now mainstream America. The latest poll from Gallup says that 58% of Americans favor legalization, the first time a clear majority has backed the idea. The drip-drip-drip of news stories about victories in states such as Colorado and Washington seems to have helped shift opinion, says Gallup, particularly among people who consider themselves political independents.


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Everyone has a sexual orientation. The American Psychological Association (APA) defines sexual orientation as an emotional or affectional attraction to another person. This includes heterosexuality (attraction to the opposite sex), homosexuality (attraction to the same sex) and bisexuality (attraction to either sex). A person's sexual orientation emerges during adolescent development and is not the result of a conscious choice. The APA states that individuals can choose whether or not to act on their feelings, but cannot voluntarily change from one orientation to another.
Why is sexual orientation a workplace issue at USDA?
Employees should expect to find a diversity of sexual orientations at USDA. In the past, it was common practice to fire or to refuse to hire suspected homosexuals in the Federal workplace. Employees have been physically threatened, verbally abused, and subjected to hostile working conditions. Laws and policies have changed, and all USDA employees need to be aware of their responsibility to prevent this form of discrimination and to ensure that gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) individuals are an accepted and valued part of the diverse USDA workforce.
Why do some people need to talk about their sexual orientation at work?
Sharing aspects of one's personal life with coworkers is a normal part of everyone's workday. Conversations about spouses, friends and family help form bonds of mutual respect and trust that support a productive workplace. Unfortunately, many GLBT employees do not discuss their personal life at work for fear that they will be rejected, harassed or threatened by other employees, thereby damaging their opportunities for advancement and promotion. Therefore, to enhance the productivity of ALL employees, it is just as important for GLBT individuals to be comfortable to speak about personal issues and matters as do other co-workers.
What if my religion says that homosexuality is morally wrong?
The USDA workforce includes a diversity of religious views, and discrimination on the basis of religion is prohibited in the Federal workplace. This means that no one can or should ask an employee to change his or her religious beliefs on homosexuality. Conversely, this also means that religious objections to homosexuality cannot be imposed on other coworkers or be used to obstruct nondiscrimination laws, policies, and diversity activities.
What are the laws and policies that prohibit sexual orientation discrimination at USDA?
- The 1978 Civil Service Reform Act states that Federal Agencies cannot "discriminate for or against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of conduct which does not adversely affect the performance of the employee or applicant or the performance of others" [5 USC 2302(b)].
- Presidential Executive Order 13087, issued in 1998, provides for "a uniform policy for the Federal government to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation."
- The Secretary's Civil Rights Policy Statement has prohibited sexual orientation discrimination at USDA since 1993.
What should I do if I believe I have been discriminated against because of my sexual orientation?
There are five avenues of redress available to a Federal employee who wishes to resolve a conflict or file a complaint of discrimination based on sexual orientation: (1) Alternative Dispute Resolution; (2) Agency discrimination complaint procedure; (3) Agency or Union grievance procedure; (4) Office of Special Counsel; and (5) Appeals to the Merit Systems Protection Board (for allegations involving personnel actions that are otherwise appealable to the Board). The employee who wishes to pursue conflict resolution or file a discrimination complaint using one of the above options should contact his or her Agency's Office of Civil Rights for specific information.
Does USDA offer domestic partner benefits?
GLBT employees of USDA can share some Federal employee benefits with their domestic partners. For example, domestic partners can be designated as beneficiaries of an employee's Thrift Savings Plan and life insurance policies if the employee files the appropriate beneficiary forms. Insurance, retirement, and long-term health care benefits cannot be shared with an employee's domestic partner by law and regulation.
What can I do to make USDA a better workplace for GLBT employees?
GLBT coworkers should be welcomed and valued members of your work unit. Acts of harassment or threats against GLBT employees should be reported immediately to your manager. Employees should refrain from GLBT jokes and negative comments. An individual's sexual orientation should not be a factor in hiring, promotion, evaluation, and work assignment decisions. Finally, the Department needs the thoughtful attention of every member of the USDA family in order to create a work environment where GLBT employees are safe, respected, and able to share in the full responsibilities and benefits of employment.
Where can I go if I have further questions about sexual orientation issues at USDA?
- The USDA Secretary's Gay and Lesbian Employee Advisory Council web page: http://www.usda.gov/cr/usda_employee_gleac.html
- Gay and Lesbian Employment Program Manager, USDA, OHRM, Whitten Building, Room 108 1400 lndependence Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20250; Phone: (202)-720-9664
- You can also contact your Agency's Civil Rights and Human Resources Offices for further information on complaint procedures, benefits, and local events and activities.


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Eve Cribbs, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
1407 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, North Carolina 27605
I see my job as something that our Aunts used to do in families before we got so mobile in our culture. Those aunts close by who married into the family and had some objectivity and lots of tenderness. Maybe you didn't have one of those aunts, but if you're in the market for one now, you'll have to hire a counselor. I practice psychotherapy and think it is a valuable tool for anyone interested in better understanding themselves. I don't have the answers, but I'm educated and trained to help you clarify what you need to know for yourself. It is fun at times, interesting and difficult. It is painful and relieving as well as frustrating. My style is collaborative, warm and direct.
Mike Garrett, Ph.D, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
809-1000 Spring Forest Road, Raleigh, North Carolina 27609
We provide the very best of kind and caring therapy from a Christian perspective. Our focus is on marriages and individuals who need help in repairing and restoring relationships as well as individuals who are struggling with mental health issues. We are able to counsel in most every adult dysfunction and approach counseling from a cognitive, spiritual, and emotionally focused approach.
Beth Holloway, MA, LPC
Beth Mumford Holloway
5909 Falls of Neuse Road, Suite 208, Raleigh, North Carolina 27609
My psycho-therapeutic is based on Person Centered Goals of each client. I help them identify their stage or level of willingness to change. Using clear step they can recognize the changes they are making in overcoming mood swings, panic attacks, relational conflict or self defeating behaviors. I like to promote self-compassion as part of acceptance of self before an individual wants to make a positive change for the future. It is about connection and helping my client let their life speak to them as they tell and retell their unique story.
Susan Miller, PhD, LPCS, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Miller Counseling Services, PC 156 Mine Lake Ct. Suite 200, Raleigh, North Carolina 27615
Dr. Miller is highly skilled in helping the client through their life journey. She offers a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, DBT, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, Talk therapy and Life Balance Assessment. An eclectic range of individualized approaches useful in helping the client progress successfully and efficiently. The client will help decide on the best treatment approach.
Third Wave Psychotherapy, PLLC
7000 Harps Mill Rd, Suite 102, Raleigh, North Carolina 27615
At Third Wave, we primarily utilize cognitive-behavioral therapies with an emphasis on behavior change. We incorporate mindfulness and acceptance strategies when working with our clients in order to assist them with better managing the emotional, psychological, and often physical distress associated with developing new behavioral patterns. Whether its assisting clients with getting unstuck from emotional and psychological issues such depression, anxiety, or OCD or working through difficult life transitions such as relocation or career change, our therapists, counselors, and wellness coaches are motivated and sincere in their desire to help their clients get moving towards their goals.
The Mindly Group, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Counselors, and Marriage & Family Therapists
8406 Six Forks Rd, Suites 201 & 204, Raleigh, North Carolina 27615
Psychotherapy, or "talk therapy," is a psychosocial form of mental health treatment used to treat a variety of mental health disorders and concerns. Whether on an individual, family, or group level the primary aim of psychotherapy is to assist individuals with developing increased insight into their experiences and to encourage behavior change in an effort to resolve psychological, emotional, and behavioral difficulties and promote growth. Some forms of psychotherapy focus on thoughts, thoughts processes and beliefs, others focus more so on emotional responses and interpretation of experiences (e.g., the meaning), while others are most concerned with observable behavior.
Meredith Stokke, MC, NCC, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
8360 Six Forks Road Suite 101, Raleigh, North Carolina 27615
I have a warm and compassionate approach in therapy. I know that it can be difficult to reach out for help, and I honor and value my clients for taking the courageous step to address the needs and issues that they have. I highly value my clients' confidentiality and privacy, and employ ethical and professional standards of practice. I use elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). I strive to meet each client where he or she is at, and work hard to help each client meet his or her treatment goals.
Katherine Walker, PhD, LPC, NCC, BCIA-C
Licensed Professional Counselor
501 North Main Street, Wake Forest, North Carolina 27587
My style and approach to psychotherapy with individuals and couples is one that is very interactive and collaborative. Together we will work to address areas of your life and relationships you are struggling with, identify goals you want to accomplish and changes you would like to make. We will build upon your strengths you bring to therapy and develop new tools and strategies to help you attain the personal growth you wish to accomplish.


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Hero Pit Bull Saves Sleeping Deaf Boy From Fire
A pit bull named Ace saved Nick Lamb from a house fire in Indianapolis. 13-year-old Lamb is deaf and was sleeping without his cochlear implants, and he didn't know about the fire until Ace licked his face to wake him up.
"He was thankful that Ace entered his room and licked his face until he woke up," said Indianapolis Fire Department Capt. Rita Reith, according to USA Today. "The boy quickly covered his nose and mouth with his T-shirt and exited the rear of the house."
Lamb and Ace were able to evacuate safely, and he called 911 and his mother. No one else was in the house so nobody was injured, and the house has $175,000 in damages. The family cat Pixie was able to escape and inhaled some smoke but will be fine.
The cause of the fire is still being investigated, but it is believed to be an electrical fire.
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