text:
Hi Everyone,
We've been ranting a bit about the Shaivo case, the Bush push to end social security or at least to end both its social aspect and its security aspect, and the plan to eliminate the filibuster in the Senate. Here are some interesting poll numbers on the issues from pollingreport.com (see link to the right). These are just highlights. You can see all the numbers at pollingreport.com.
First, the Shaivo thing since it seems to be the hot topic this week (these results are from an ABC news poll):
56% of respondents support the Florida court ruling the remove life support
78% of respondents would NOT want to be kept alive themselves if they were in Terri Shaivo's condition - count me in with the majority on that one.
60% of respondents oppose sending the case to Federal Courts
70% oppose Congressional interference
67% believe such interference is motivated by political opportunism
Fox "News" polls got similar results (but they didn't even ask about Congress etc - why ask when you know you won't like the answer)
Now for Social Security:
59% of respondents disapprove of the way Bush is handling the social security issue (Newsweek poll)
48% of respondents believe the Bush administration is just using scare tactics. 43% believe there is a crisis (Time poll)
52% of respondents oppose investing social security in stocks and bonds (Time poll)
When the pollster mentions the amount of borrowing involved in privatization, 67% oppose it (Time poll)
The Filibuster:
57% of all respondents oppose ending the filibuster. 33% of Republicans oppose ending the filibuster! (Newsweek poll)
Bush's DISapproval rating is back up to 48% (Newsweek).
These numbers suggest that the Republicans are really picking their fights unwisely. Let's hope they push it to the limit so that we can get some democracy in 2006!
What do you think?
Tuesday, March 22, 2005
Poll Numbers on Shaivo and Social Security
Hi Everyone,
Posted by Raised By Republicans at 7:35 AM
21 comments:
- US West said...
I think that we should also poll to find out how many Americans are aware that the recently passed Congressional budget just made room for even bigger tax cuts than those asked for by the adminsitration. At the same time, the budget includes deep cuts to medicaid and numerous other social programs used by the poor. See: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A18244-2005Mar8.html and take
In addition: for people interested in how this whole budget thing works, the Washington Post site has a Budget 101 seciton: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/politics/interactives/budget101/
This is very cool because it has nice charts and graphs. And it has this striking stat at the end: By the end of this year, the CBO estimates that the national debt will be equal to 38% of the nation's economy.
Furthermore, here is the Post's info on the agency by agency breakdown on the FY2006 budget. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/politics/interactives/budget06/budget06Agencies.html
So let's do some serious polling on this issue. Forget Schiavo who is being supported by medicaid dollars.
- Dr. Strangelove said...
If RxR is correct that Republicans are choosing their battles unwisely this term, might it be that they have been suckered in by their own propaganda and they actually believe they have won a mandate from the electorate--or perhaps from God?
- US West said...
If Dr. Strangelove is right, then they haven't yet learned that, "What God giveth with the right hand, he can taketh with the left."
I am not sure that is acutally in the Bible. I'm Catholic, remember.
- Raised By Republicans said...
Howard Johnson is right! (Blazing Saddles reference)
I think Dr. Strangelove hit the nail on the head with his interpretation that the Republican leaders believe their own propaganda about having a "mandate." This was exactly the problem they had with the Contract with America (which largely fell flat) and which lead to a huge set back over the government shut down confrontation with Bill Clinton.
This faction of the Republican party has a demonstrated pattern of campaigning far better than they govern.
I think they believe that the country is with them. No one is more convinced of this than Bush himself. We are seeing the blow back effects of their Potemkin campaign.
There is a old joke about Republicans. "Republicans spend their years in opposition screaming that government can't function effectively and every so often they get into power and prove it."
- Bell Curve said...
I think no matter what religion (or lack of) one has, one has got to believe that whatever happens after we die is probably better than what Terri Schaivo is going through now. The only possible logical explanation for why people want to fight to keep her alive is that they think she'll pull through, despite the medical evidence.
By the way, I have found that a lot of deeply religious people are very afraid of dying, and it makes me wonder why. It's like Maude Flanders: "Oh Neddy, it was terrifying. I thought I was headed for the eternal bliss of paradise."
- Raised By Republicans said...
My suspicion is that most (but certainly not all) avowedly religious people are not religious because of any kind of spiritual self exploration or contemplation of the nature of the universe etc. They are religious precisely because they find the unknown and unpredictable to be deeply disturbing. So rather than confront their fear they grab hold of the first set of beliefs that comes along that makes everything known. That way they don't have to think about things for themselves anymore.
They confuse spirituality with dogma and use dogma as a crutch...but they continue to be frightened.
- Dr. Strangelove said...
Bell Curve is wrong about the "only possible logical explanation" for why Terri Schiavo's parents want to keep her alive. They believe she is still in there, somewhere--trapped, unable to communicate, impaired in her mental faculties, and bereft of memory--but still alive and desperately yearning for company. A baseless fantasy of heartbroken parents who cannot face the truth? Yes. But since science cannot prove anything with 100% certainty, many people will continue to believe that there remains reasonable room for Terri Schiavo's parents to doubt her doctors' conclusions about her mental state--that reasonable people can doubt or hope.
Because it is the nature of science to be honest about its own potential for ignorance and error, science does not speak in absolutes. Thus when Bush says we must, "err on the side of life," or when well-meaning, sympathetic people say there is, "always a chance," Terri Schiavo can come around, it can sound prudent and reasonable. But it is not. The underlying fallacy is a profound misunderstanding of chance and risk. To within the limits of scientific precision, it is no more likely that Terri Schiavo is still conscious than Julius Caesar is.
We have been grappling for centuries with the problem of how to make ethical decisions where there are no absolutes, only extremely strong probabilities, and the result is an evolving body of jurisprudence. Our system of law understands that there is a difference between a reasonable doubt and an unreasonable one, that even the most sacred rights must sometimes yield to harsh realities, and that life is extremely valuable but not, in the end, priceless. Albeit flawed, our judicial system is still the best instrument we have for making these painful decisions.
As I argued earlier on this blog concerning Bush v. Gore, two essential features of society's decisionmaking process are pre-determined rules and finality. By intervening in this case, Congress and the President have used fallacious appeals to our love of hope to maim the existing decisionmaking process, all for the sake of winning a few votes. As LTG wrote in an earlier post, they should be ashamed. In this case, there is a "chance" for a miracle, but not a reasonable chance. In this case, to "err on the side of life" is just to err. Through the courts, we have, as a society, already done the best we can.
- Dr. Strangelove said...
After posting my comment, I checked the news one last time and saw that the 11th circuit panel has just refused to order the feeding tube reinserted. In a 2-1 decision, they wrote, "No matter how much we wish Mrs. Schiavo had never suffered such a horrible accident, we are a nation of laws and if we are to continue to be so, the preexisting and well-established federal law...must be applied to her case."
This says better what I was trying to get at with my comment about "pre-determined rules and finality."
- Bell Curve said...
You're right, Dr. S. I was vainly trying to apply logic to a scenario in which all logic goes out the window, and very understandably so.
- Raised By Republicans said...
I think we're all pretty much in agreement about our indignance over this whole mess but I just have two things to ad.
First, NPR is reporting from Columbus, OH that Ohio Hospice has seen their daily requests for information on living wills jump from 2 a day to 50 a day. The "Invisible Hand" speaks!
Second, the diagonosis about Terri Shiavo's "vegitative state" is not based on subjective interpretations of how she looks on video. Rather, cat scans of her brain show that her cerebral cortex (that's the grey wrinkly bit) has deteriorated to the point of being liquid.
There is science here. It's just not providing the answers religious fanatics want to hear.
- The Law Talking Guy said...
Dr. S - predetermined rules and finality are great... to a point. Law has always struggled with predictability and finality on the one hand with mercy and substantial justice on the other. The danger of predetermined rules is that a just cause falls through the cracks; the danger of always willing to give things another look is that justice never finishes. Anglo-American jurisprudence has balanced these with twin pillars of law and equity, the former relying on predetermined rules and the latter on broader principles. The two systems of law compete, you might say, for the court's attention according to complicated mechanisms. In Continental legal systems, the (short) civil and code is presumed to have settled these issues because it is theoretically deduced from broader principles of ancient provenance. The judges of the 11th Circuit have reminded the world that we have parallel court systems, and that its analysis would be no different than that of a Florida court. The expectation that they would balance law and equity differently was folly to begin with: both courts apply the same family law (that of the state of Florida) and the same constitutional law (the US and Florida constitutions). By failing to create a new substantive federal right, the law only hoped to have a federal judge conclude that a Florida judge "did it wrong." Worked in Bush v. Gore - hence the tragedy of that case.
- Dr. Strangelove said...
Another goal of the law--perhaps the primary goal--was to buy time. The state court proceedings took 7 years; the law's requirement of "de novo" proceedings at the federal level could have generated a delay at least as long. "Forum shopping" indeed.
- Bell Curve said...
My suspicion is that most (but certainly not all) avowedly religious people are not religious because of any kind of spiritual self exploration or contemplation of the nature of the universe etc. They are religious precisely because they find the unknown and unpredictable to be deeply disturbing. So rather than confront their fear they grab hold of the first set of beliefs that comes along that makes everything known. That way they don't have to think about things for themselves anymore.
That is so funny because I think the same thing about atheists. I think a lot of them (again, not all) just refuse to think about the unknown, so they say "it happened randomly, there's no meaning" and close the book on it.
Wait, isn't this a political blog?
- Raised By Republicans said...
Hi Bell Curve,
Yeah, its a political blog, a baseball blog and other random topics.
But religious identity, and the political conflicts that derive from it, are of increasing importance in this country.
As for atheists refusing to think about the unknown, I'm an atheist (I think) and I think about the unknown all the time. I've concluded that I don't know a heck of lot about it. But large numbers of self-identified Christians think about the unkown and conclude that Gay people are going to Hell and that liquified cerebral cortexes could grow back if only Congress would pass a law about it. That kind of "religion" is as devoid of spirituality as any kind of atheism. And that was really my point.
I stand by my assertion that many (perhaps that is a better choice of words than "most") people who declare that they are religious are really just dogmatic. The same could apply to any "belief system" I suppose.
Of course there are a small number of organized "atheists" who have websites and stuff. But I fear they are in danger of becoming a "belief system" that is just as dogmatic as any religion. It is far better to engage in a constant and curious search for answers to questions with the understanding that much is unknown but little is unknowable.
And of course, at the moment, there are no organized groups of atheists trying to curtail the civil liberties of their fellow citizens. There are however very large organziations of people who sincerely believe they are Christians doing just that and they have managed (for a variety of reasons) to acquire more than their fair share political power. This Shiavo thing is just one example.
These groups represent the plurality if not the majority of opinion among people who attend Christian churches regularly.
- US West said...
Firstly, I think this was an excellent discussion that covered a lot of ground. Thanks to all.
Secondly, I have to agree with RBR on his points about religion, hypocrisy, and atheism. I also agree with BC that both can be taken to the extreme. RBR isn't an atheist. He is an agnostic. He just doesn't want to admit it.:-)
The difference between the atheist and the true believer is that the atheist is willing to admit not knowing many things,but for one. He knows for sure that there is no god.
The difference between the atheist and the agnostic is that the agnostic is willing to admit not knowing enough to prove things one way or the other. Are they the indecisive fence sitters or the fair minded judges?
This has ramifications for our politics. It goes without saying that there are solid values or morals behind our fundamental legal principles and our social contract. Some abroad have observed what they call the "cult" of the American Constitution, meaning that for some ( and I might fall into this category), the respect for the Constitution (as they see it) borders on the religious. But this can't become too dogmatic because respecting the Constitution also means respecting its adaptability. And it means respecting the changing nature of common law (i.e. stare decisis).
This goes back to LTG's post about the two legs of justice- the rules and equity. All rules are bendable and breakable. Determining how far to bend before something is broken is part of the dilemma. This is a very human struggle, one that was recognized when we were given the power to amend and interpret the Constitution and the body if law that has grown from it. It is the same power we were given to interpret the Bible and the body of dogma that has grown from that.
- Dr. Strangelove said...
USWest says an atheist, "knows for sure that there is no god." Though some atheists feel that way, as an atheist myself, I must respectfully disagree. Please see my earlier post re the incompatibility of science with absolute certainty.
The distinction between atheism and agnosticism is more subtle. Both camps find convincing evidence for a god to be lacking. Both camps believe that, contrary to the popular platitude, the absence of evidence is evidence of absence (I refer you to George W. Bush's "record" in the Air National Guard)--it just does not constitute conclusive proof. The difference is in where one goes from there.
One way or another, atheists conclude that--whether or not a god may in fact actually exist--they cannot reasonably believe in it, and they choose to live accordingly. Agnostics aren't sure what to think.
Incidentally, all this applies to a fairly generic concept of god. Some atheists (including me) feel comfortable ruling out a specific description of god (i.e. the Christian one) as incompatible with other evidence. In particular, since I think theodicy is a logical impossibility, if I were to accept the evidence for a god as convincing, my fallback position would have to be dystheism.
- Raised By Republicans said...
I'm enjoying this too.
I'm reminded of a Monty Python skit where a man is annoyed by the loud church bells ringing in the church next door. "Bloody Christians! Why do they have to ring those bloody bells?" He screams - barely audible over the din..."You don't have Budhists banging bongos in the basement or Shintos shattering sheet glass in the shithouse!" Eventually the man is fed up and leaves. A pause and we hear a loud explosion followed by no more bells. The man returns home and says in a very satisfied tone, "There! It just goes to show that there's nothing an agnostic can't do if he doesn't know whether he believes in anything or not."
By the way, the US Supreme Court just voted to deny the Schindler's appeal to keep Terri Shiavo's body alive.
- US West said...
a CBS poll is reporting that 2/3 of evangelical oppose Presidental and Congressional intervention in the Shiavo case. (http://www.commondreams.org/headlines05/0324-05.htm)
Thank you, Dr. S for highlighting the nuance I missed. Fair point.
- Raised By Republicans said...
If I may wax partisan for a moment...
The kind of conversations we have on the blog are essentially why I'm a Democrat for the forseeable future. Here we are a bunch of people: Protestant, Catholic, Unitarian, atheist, pro-trade, trade-sceptical, liberal, moderate, what have you and we are having relatively civil conversations about politics and policy and none of us has suggested that any of the others should be "the enemy."
To me that is THE fundamental difference between Democrats and Republicans right now. The Democratic Party is keeping true to its "Big Tent" philosophy and I think that is a VERY good thing!
- Raised By Republicans said...
If I may add...at our worst we get into heated debates about HOW EXACTLY to best serve the greater good. At our
At our best we engage in friendly exchange of opinions from which we all learn.
- Rick J said...
I have been following a site now for almost 2 years and I have found it to be both reliable and profitable. They post daily and their stock trades have been beating
the indexes easily.
Take a look at Wallstreetwinnersonline.com


text:
- Home
- News
- Sports
- Opinion
- Obituaries
- Features
- Special Sections
- Classifieds
- Public Notices
Kelly Gibson, the marketing director at Victorian Square in Rockwood, said one thing sticks out to her about area veterans.
"Around here, they take care of each other," she said.
That was evident on Feb. 18.
Disabled American Veterans Chapter 86 presented Victorian Square resident Jack Adkisson with a check for $230.
The money is for a deductible Adkisson needed to pay for a bionic arm.
If you currently subscribe or have subscribed in the past to the Roane County News, then simply find your account number on your mailing label and enter it below.
Click the question mark below to see where your account ID appears on your mailing label.
If you are new to the award winning Roane County News and wish to get a subscription or simply gain access to our online content then please enter your ZIP code below and continue to setup your account.
|ZIP Code:

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Hasta luego Barcelona – I hope!September 24, 2009 at 8:14 pm | Posted in Barcelona, Me, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) | 6 Comments
Tags: Art Deco, Art Nouveau, Barcelona, Hotel 1898, opera, R.A., Rheumatoid arthritis, Samantha, Spain, Spanish, Terry, Wyeth pharmaceuticals
I sent a postcard to hubby on my first day in Barcelona. It said, 'Start learning Spanish – we're coming back!' It's a truly beautiful city – especially if you love Art Deco and Art Nouveau as I do; the people are friendly, the food is amazing and the hotel they put us up in … well, that's one bit I probably won't go back to. No, don't get me wrong – it was estupendo, fantastico, fenominal (I'm sure translation is not necessary!) … but so was the price. Not an issue for me since I wasn't paying, but I think if I go back to visit with hubby we'll maybe just about afford a drink on the roof terrace there for old time's sake. (Might have to share the drink!) If you have money to burn then Hotel 1898 is probably THE place to stay in Barcelona.
So, was it useful from an R.A. point of view … well, I met some great people, from UK, Spain, Malta, Greece, Israel, Argentina, Romania and Sweden, all R.A. 'victims' and all chosen because their attitude was precisely the opposite of 'victim' or 'sufferer' – these were all people who were getting on with their lives in really positive ways, often doing a lot to help others on the way, and the event was to celebrate their achievements. Made me feel a bit of a fraud, meeting some of them – quite humbling. Terry, for instance, was diagnosed at 16 (ouch) and has put up with SEVERE R.A. for 20 years now – and she raises significant amounts of money for NRAS and still has time to hone her wicked sense of humour on unsuspecting companions (i.e. me). I shall get my own back photographically later on. Theresa from Sweden was diagnosed at eight and … wait for it, wait for it … went on to become a professional dancer!
'But what did you have to DO?' I hear you cry – 'Surely you had to sing for your supper – there's no such thing as a free lunch, let alone a free three night stay in a fabulous hotel, full board, heavenly food, comfy beds, friendly staff …' Well … I think we spent a total of about 1.5 hours in groups and interviews on Monday and Tuesday and the rest was free time! There was what they called a focus group to start off with, divided into three groups as there were 28 'patients' altogether, some with carers in tow, so too large for one group. It wasn't really a focus group – more of an ice breaker. Everyone told their stories briefly and then we all went off for a lovely lunch. In the afternoon there was a short chat about how to deal with the press, how to control a press interview; how to think in soundbites really. (Not the way she put it, and she might be insulted to hear me describe it like that, but that's how it came across to me!) Then on Tuesday morning at 9.30 I did my short piece to camera and then had the rest of the day free until the celebratory dinner.
Apart from the absolutely abysmal travel arrangements, my only quibble would be the arrangement of this. It started at 5.30 with drinks and canapes (standing up) for half an hour, followed by paparazzi hell (a.k.a. a photo opportunity for the press with Jane Seymour, who presented the certificates) with all of us in a group photo. Then a video telling the story of Samantha, one of the participants, and one of the many amazing people there. One young lady (carer for one of the Greek ladies) got clobbered on the head with an enormous telephoto lens, but other than that it went O.K. Then we wandered into the dinner room and sat down to a video telling the story of one of the participants, Samantha, just one of the extraordinary people there, a speech from Jane Seymour, a speech from a Spanish consultant (a whole story in itself, but I'm not going to go into that now!) and a speech from a patient group representative who bravely did her talk in English (which she didn't really speak.) It was a very good try, but really, as we had simultaneous translation, it would have been better to do it more naturally in Spanish, rather than reading the PowerPoint presentation word for word in English! Thumbs up to her for trying though – a brave effort.
THEN we had to all go and get our certificates individually from Jane, who also gave us a signed copy of her new book. Seems like a nice lass – I'm jealous though as she's about fifteen years older than me and still looks like a 'lass'!
Then the OTHER guest of honor, Javier Bovea Ahis, an R.A. 'sufferer' as well, who had had to give up his career in the police force due to his R.A. and retrained as, of all things, an opera singer, going on to win various Spanish talent shows and make quite a name for himself, sang. And boy did he sing – he had a terrific voice, but the room just wasn't big enough for him. He also had an eye for the beautiful ladies, whom he serenaded repeatedly later in the evening, and even danced with in one instance. I was grateful not to be one of them as I think their ears were still ringing the following morning.
Then ANOTHER group photo and then … FINALLY they FED us. This was a bit of a cultural issue; it must have been about 8.15 by this point – the Brits were STARVING, the Spanish were probably just about considering the possibility of getting a bit peckish!
My quibble isn't with the late food – more with the fact that the event started at 5.30 and we finally finished the meal at 11.00 and that's a LONG HAUL for anyone with rheumatoid arthritis I reckon! Some stayed up even later than that … you could spot the bleary eyes at breakfast the next morning!
So – was it worth it? For me, si! I had what amounted to a fabulous short break in Barcelona. For Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, who funded it? I really have no idea. The idea is to put together a website to encourage people to take time out to really learn about their condition and learn to accept it and live positively with it. (My Day for R.A.) That's what we were all there for and that's what the piece to camera was for … but as yet if you go to the site you'll still find application forms for the event that I've just been to, so when they'll get it updated, who knows. Hopefully in time for World Arthritis Day on October 12th!
Photos of the event, including the serenading opera singer and Terry with her new best mate Jane, are here!
Pollyanna Penguin's (hopefully) Big AdventureSeptember 14, 2009 at 7:49 pm | Posted in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) | 3 Comments
Tags: Barcelona, Jane Seymour, My Day for R.A., R.A., Rheumatoid arthritis, Spain, Wyeth pharmaceuticals
I've been invited to an (almost) all expenses paid trip to Barcelona next week for an event about managing R.A.! I just knew there had to be some perks to having this dratted disease! Always look on the bright side, I say – and this time the bright side is taking me to (hopefully) bright and sunny Spain.
I had an email sent through the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society in mid-August saying that this event, My Day for R.A. (www.mydayforra.com), was taking place and that if you wanted to be involved you had to fill in a form telling your inspirational/positive story about living with R.A. They apologised for the short notice but they'd only just been told about it, about three days before the deadline of 14 August.
Well, work was fairly quiet so I thought what the heck – nothing ventured etc. and filled it in.
Fast forward three weeks to Penguin on holiday in sunny Sussex – in fact sitting on Brighton beach soaking up the sun and lapping up an ice cream – when the phone goes. It's my colleague saying, 'Can you phone this woman urgently – something to do with an R.A. event or something …' So I did, and it was a nice young lady wondering if I'd got the email inviting me to the event in Spain … which of course I hadn't.
Short notice seems to be a feature of the whole event – they said they'd let all shortlisted people know by end August, then sent round an email that said there would be a delay due to the large number of responses. They let me know on 10 September and I'm (hopefully) flying out on Sunday 20 September … but I have yet to receive any flight details. I've got to get myself to the airport, after which they take over and arrange everything … hopefully! They pay for the travel to the airport too, just ask you to arrange it … which is fine, provided they tell me sharpish which airport I'll actually be flying from and when!
It should be a really interesting event – people from all over Europe discussing their ways of dealing with R.A., and culminating in a celebratory dinner featuring Jane Seymour (Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman, bond girl in Live and Let Die, and, by astonishing coincidence, on the cover of the book I'm reading in my 'gravatar' photo on my home page, as Lady Blakeny in The Scarlet Pimpernel, amongst many other things). They hope it will also feature lots of journalists for some good publicity for Wyeth Pharmaceuticals who are funding it, and hopefully also to improve people's understanding of R.A. – both those who've got it and those who haven't and make those annoying comments about 'Oh, isn't that wear and tear on the bone' etc. etc. They're even providing participants with a workshop on how to deal with the media – so if nothing else, that might well have some useful learnings!
I'm really hoping that there'll be a little bit of time to see something of Barcelona before they fly me home again on Wednesday – we shall see. Either way, I'm looking forward to it and hoping it makes a contribution to people's understanding of rheumatoid arthritis!
Create a free website or blog at WordPress.com.
Entries and comments feeds.


text:
Welcome to the official website of The Ashtan Sarovar Portico New Delhi..
Use our Power Search to compare the official website rate with 200+ sites with one click.
By making your hotel booking directly on the official website of The Ashtan Sarovar Portico, you can be assured of getting the lowest available rate.
When you enter your travel dates and search for the lowest rates available for your hotel stay in New Delhi at The Ashtan Sarovar Portico; our power search enhanced by best rate judge, ensures we search rates across 200+ sites for The Ashtan Sarovar Portico and show you a comparison of the official hotel website rates Vs. the lowest rates available for the hotel on other sites. This is a real-time search conducted buy a third party, and by clicking on the view deal link you can see details of the rates across other sites.
In most cases the rate on the official website of The Ashtan Sarovar Portico would be the lowest, as best rates are always available with the hotel directly. In an event the rate is higher on the official website, you can invoke the Low Price Warranty of The Ashtan Sarovar Portico and file your claim which take just a minute. This will ensure the hotel matches the lowest rate. For more details Click here
When you book directly on the official website of The Ashtan Sarovar Portico you get peace of mind, as you are dealing directly with the hotel. When you make a hotel booking for The Ashtan Sarovar Portico, New Delhi through a third party site there are two parties involved, which can cause miscommunication. Sometimes the reservations do not flow through to the hotel on time. This could potentially leave you with getting the wrong room, of no room at all at the Hotel.
You could read some reviews of third party booking sites by clicking on the links below:
Book Direct, Book with Confidence !


text:
My Premium
How It Works
My Meal Plans
My Fitness Plans
My Recipes
My Tools
Expert Blog
Member Blogs
Diet & Fitness A-Z
Success Stories
Sample Meal Plan
Sample Recipes
Corporate Wellness Program
Terms & Conditions
Privacy Policy
Fresh Start All*Stars TOP CHALLENGER Announced!!
New User?
Already a member?
Log in
Goto page
View all forums
Our Challenges and Successes
View previous topic
View next topic
Joined: 18 Dec 2007
Total Posts:
Posted: Mon Jun 30, 2008 5:40 pm
Post subject: Fresh Start All*Stars TOP CHALLENGER Announced!!
As you know, the Fresh Start All*Stars Challenge (our FIRST EVER All*Stars challenge) concluded last week after an awesome 9 weeks of incredible participation amongst both our teammates AND candidates.
Dozens and dozens of you participated in this challenge, but by the end there could only be one winning team and ONE Grand Challenge MVP!
The winning team was announced last week - congratulations to all Team Athena teammates! You pulled ahead for good and beat out Team Artemis!
Each teammate on Team Athena received a 3 month FREE premium membership to Diet.com! AND even the candidates were awarded - every candidate for Team Athena was awarded a 1 month FREE premium membership! Pretty cooooool!
And now...
for the announcement....
that we've ALLLLL been waiting for....
...the Grand Challenge MVP!!!
We received some really incredible narratives at the end of this challenge, from challengers who worked so hard this past 9 weeks- working to help themselves and working to help their teammates! From those incredible
narratives- and based on challenge participation, premium membership status,and before and after pictures- we've pulled a winner!!!
Congratulations to....
.... babybirdgirl!!!!
You've won!!!!! WHOOOHOOOOO!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!! As part of babybirdgirl's exclusive Grand MVP prize pack, she'll receive:
- A fabulous gift basket from Dr. Tabor's Slim & Beautiful Diet, valued at $1,000. Delicious protein-packed foods and snacks from Dr. Tabor to help you finally lose the weight!
- A pair of SpringBoost Motion sneakers (a value of $140.00)!
Congrats again babybirdgirl (Kim!) - we are all VERY proud of you. Here is her awesome narrative:
"What an exciting FRESH START ALL STAR Challenge we have just finished! I am amazed at how much I have transformed my life these past nine weeks. At the very second that I thought that I could not do one more lunge or squat, a determination and drive came over me that I must say, some days, I'm not sure where it came from! I had struggled to see fast results in the past, and I would have always just given up. Before, giving up was my only option that I thought I had. Today, giving up would never even enter into my mind! Today, giving up is not an option!
I cannot even imagine the "old" Kim now. I don't know that fat girl in my "Start" picture. She was sick and unhealthy, fat and tired, sad and frustrated, but she still kept devouring foods that would go on to make her fatter and even more unhealthy. It's amazing the damage we keep doing to ourselves. I believe the Fresh Start All Star Challenge was the necessary kick that I needed to continue my weight loss goals and to keep me on track through the Spring and right up to Summer.
I learned many things throughout this challenge. I learned that my shy days of hiding in the corner are OVER! Way over! I learned that I am done sitting on the beach with sweats and a long sleeved shirt, afraid of ridicule, stares and laughs from the skinny people! I'm not done living and those around me are just going to have to accept me for what and who I am, because I do now. I'm not perfect, but I've learned that there are many people on Diet.Com that don't care. They accept me for who I am, faults and all. And to find that so many people have opened up their arms to me has just been such an emotional ride to be quite frank. Why? Because acceptance from others was rare. Oh I get it. Because I had so many hang ups about my weight, it was tough for anyone to want to be a friend to me. Friends have been few and far between. I mean, I don't blame people, my self esteem was not to be found. Who wants to be around someone like that? I justified my "alone" time by thinking that I didn't deserve friends. I always knew that I was a good person. A big hearted person. Why didn't anyone want to share it? Again, I get it now. This Challenge has opened my eyes to all of my denials and destructive lifestyle ways!
During the 9 week Challenge, I lost 19.4 pounds. I was very active on this site. I went to Florida during the challenge, but I didn't have a personal computer to log on and blog. BUT, I participated every week in message boards, every motivational question and every candidate selection! I think my consistency has made me the top choice for the MVP of this Challenge. I have motivated Members to keep going and not give up through private messaging and blogs. I think many younger Members can look up to me as I have kept up with the 20 somethings in Challenges. I am over 40 and I would like to see one of the "older" challengers win to represent the "over 40" generation out there that don't think that we can lose the weight. I think Diet.com is the perfect media representation to promote that it is never too late to make a "FRESH START" at any age, but especially over 40. It IS true that we have different obstacles and hurdles to overcome. Yet for me, I never use age as a reason for failure or success. It's just a factor in the weight loss equation is all!
I was extremely successful with the mini challenges that was offered during this challenge. It also spurred me on to promote challenges to my co-workers to strive for exercise, healthy eating, hydration and fitness. I too, offered prizes for the winners. I took the responsibility upon myself to "pay it forward". I think that is the best compliment I can give to Diet.com. You showed me the way, and now, I want to show others the way through you! Thank you for the inspiration.
I was not very good at exercising in the morning during this Challenge. Statistics show that the morning is the best time to exercise and I would agree. However, I was only able to actually exercise in the morning for only 5 times. My workout time each night is from 6:30 - 7:30. I just do better at night. Yet, I feel like I could have exercised in the morning and pumped up my metabolism for the entire day. Well, that is one thing that I will focus on in the coming weeks, as I continue with my weight loss goals. I am 5 pounds from my current goal. I cannot be happier! Actually, I don't think I can even describe the emotions I am feeling right now. I keep staring at my "Start", "Middle" and "After Fresh Start All Star Challenge" pictures. I am simply in awe of what I look like now. I mean, I don't mean to be vain or self absorbed, I just cannot believe the transformation. My "dream" of losing those 50+ pounds was so overwhelming to comprehend several months ago. Sure, I didn't lose 100+ pounds like Tracie or Shannon, but I feel just as accomplished as them. My personal accomplishment of losing over 50 pounds FEELS like a hundred pounds lifted off of my shoulders! I have certainly felt the pressure bearing down:
The pressure to fit in.
The pressure to be thin.
The pressure to to win.
The pressure to feel good in my own skin.
All of the above!
I did really well with writing down my daily calories and journaling most days. This is what I feel is the the #1 reason for my weight loss success. I wrote every crumb down. I also did very well with drinking LOTS and LOTS of water (with lemon). Also the best thing that I could have done. I increased my fiber intake and I was very consistent with that. I faithfully blended my 140 calorie smoothie at work each day. (Well until I would run out of supplies, then I'd have to restock).
I was very good with eating breakfast. A feat that only Diet.com can have credit. Until coming to this site, breakfast was out of the question. I never ate breakfast. Now, another reason for my success. I cannot believe the amount of energy and how much better I feel when I eat breakfast now. I guess those experts were really on to something with that one!
Final thoughts, as I know this is very long. I'm so overwhelmed with pride and accomplishment though. So please forgive me!
Here is my advice to current and prospective Diet.Com Members:
1. Blog when you can
2. Ask questions. There is definitely someone on this
site that can help you out.
3. Journal daily
4. Use the Trackers! (Most important tip!)
5. Find a Diet.com Buddy or buddies and lose the
weight together.
6. Find out what the successful dieters are doing.
Trust me, they have figured out a thing or two
about weight loss and don't reinvent the wheel,
use their tips and diet advice.
7. Don't take anybody's comments personal. People
don't know what that one trigger is that might
offend you. Nobody means it, but it does happen
on rare occasions.
8. Find different foods to try. Re-try a healthy
food that you have disliked in the past. Perhaps
you'll like it now. That has happened to me
time and time again. And, you will increase your
food options so boredom does not occur.
9. Speaking of boredom, if you start to slip due to
boredom, change up your routine. Although this
might not work for everybody, I change my fitness
routine every 2 weeks. It is what I have found that
works for me. Do what you can to chase boredom
10. And finally, make it FUN! Exercise, eating
healthy and changing your lifestyle for the better
need not be painful. Take it one day at a time
enjoy this adventurous journey that you are on!
Thank you for all of the support that Diet.com has provided to me. NOBODY pushes me towards success better than Diet.com. I love you Diet.com!
Thank you so much to everyone who participated in the Fresh Start All*Stars Challenge! It was an exciting ride, and I was so glad to be a part of it. If you're bummed about the conclusion of this challenge, cheer up! Diet.com will begin a fun summer 2008 challenge in the coming weeks!
Stay tuned to
to keep up-to-date on that info.
Thanks again to the Fresh Start participants! You've each made leaps and bounds towards achieving
your fitness and health goals!!
And a special thanks AND congratulations to all of the incredible teammates who submitted their final narratives. Each of them were SO inspiring, and I am SO proud of each of you. Here are some stats to check out about those other challengers who submitted narratives:
missmomofkja: Lost 6 lbs this challenge - beating her goal by 1 pound!!
caramiamt: Lost 13 lbs this challenge!
cocoroco: Lost 12 lbs this challenge!
atay123: Lost 15.5 lbs during this challenge!!
Don't forget to congratulate these ladies, as well as all the other challenge participants!
I look forward to our next challenge everyone! I hope you're excited as well!!
All the best,
Last edited by CSL-Bailey on Fri Sep 05, 2008 2:25 pm; edited 1 time in total
Back to top
Joined: 24 Sep 2007
Total Posts:
Posted: Mon Jun 30, 2008 10:43 pm
Post subject:
Thank you SOOOOO much! I am so excited! I just can't believe this.
Thank you Diet.com for challenging me to be my very best every day. You have inspired me beyond imagination!
Super BIG hugs!!
What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything? -Vincent Van Gogh
Back to top
Joined: 12 Dec 2007
Total Posts:
Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2008 12:56 am
Post subject:
Wow!! Great job and congratulations Kim!!
Don't think you can. KNOW YOU CAN!
Back to top
Ave and Evs mom
Joined: 31 Mar 2008
Total Posts:
Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2008 2:56 am
Post subject:
Kim I am so proud of you that is great! YOur hot and you won, life couldnt get better, what a way to start the summer off right! I am so super duper whozas triple jump with a half flip in mid air ( I really cant do that ehehehe) proud of you!
Back to top
Joined: 20 Feb 2007
Total Posts:
Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2008 3:31 am
Post subject:
Congratulations Kim!!! You totally deserve it!! And I will definitely use you as an inspiration for the rest of my journey!! Enjoy!!!!
"Knowing is not enough; we must apply.
Willing is not enough; we must do."
Back to top
Joined: 20 Feb 2007
Total Posts:
Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2008 3:32 am
Post subject:
Oh and congrats caramiamt, coco and atay....you ladies did awesome loosing that much weight!!!
"Knowing is not enough; we must apply.
Willing is not enough; we must do."
Back to top
Joined: 26 Jul 2007
Total Posts:
Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2008 3:33 am
Post subject:
Congrats Kim!!!
You deserve it!!!
"Perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after another."
Back to top
Joined: 15 May 2007
Total Posts:
Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2008 11:36 am
Post subject: Lots of love!
I wasnt able to send in my narrative because i was at the beach and there wasn't any wifi!
boo but I want to tell you all that I'm very glad about that challenge! I may have counted the days and was really a bit panicky but all throughout the challenge..
1. I WAS ABLE TO BREAK THE PLATEAU and lost 10 lbs to a grand total of 30 lbs since we had all these challenges.
2. Confidence to just go ahead and flaunt it!
3. 5k fun run
4. more confidence to just go ahead and try something new - Surfing!
5. Jump off a 35 feet waterfall
and my immune system boosted up. Thank you so much!!
) Here's one great huge tight hugs and lots of kisses!
Last edited by Kasssy on Wed Jul 02, 2008 7:05 pm; edited 1 time in total
Back to top
Joined: 20 Jun 2005
Total Posts:
Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2008 1:48 pm
Post subject:
Way to go, Kim!! You rock, babe.
Back to top
Joined: 06 Jun 2006
Total Posts:
Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2008 6:14 pm
Post subject:
Way to go Kim! You totally deserved this. You are such an inspiration!
Marathon runners don't worry about the conditions, they just run anyway
Back to top
Joined: 15 May 2007
Total Posts:
Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2008 12:05 am
Post subject:
Kim, I'm so excited for you! You totally deserve it, girl! I hope to be like you! And a shout out to my other buddies who lost weight on the challenge, too. You guys are the best!
Back to top
Why Weight
Joined: 17 Jan 2008
Total Posts:
Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2008 4:26 pm
Post subject:
Way to Go Kim
Back to top
Joined: 08 Sep 2007
Total Posts:
Posted: Tue Jul 08, 2008 2:50 am
Post subject:
Congrats Kim. You derserved it. Keep up the good work!
Back to top
Joined: 07 Jul 2008
Total Posts:
Posted: Wed Jul 09, 2008 6:52 pm
Post subject: WOW!!
What an amazingly inspiring narrative! Congrats, Kim! That is so awesome and you've inspired me so much with your words and accomplishments. It sounds like you really deserved the win. I cannot WAIT for the summer challenge! I am DEFINITELY in!
~ Tara
Back to top
Joined: 11 Jul 2007
Total Posts:
Posted: Fri Jul 11, 2008 5:06 am
Post subject:
You absolutely deserve the win Kim!! You are always so upbeat and a great inspiration to everyone on here. Congratulations!!
and... congratulations to everyone else for FINISHING the challenge all together haha! to those that lost, or didn't gain, we should all be proud to still be here fighting
"Motivation is what gets you started, habit is what keeps you going"
Back to top
Display posts from previous:
1 Day
7 Days
2 Weeks
1 Month
3 Months
6 Months
1 Year
Oldest First
Newest First
View all forums
Our Challenges and Successes
Goto page
Not a member yet?
Already a member?
Powered By:
Weight Loss Challenge
Diet Reviews
Meal Tracker
Fitness Tracker
Weight Tracker
Glucose Tracker
Dining Out Guide
Workout Builder
Premium Diet Program
Diet Recipes
Nutrition Blogs
Fitness Blogs
Fitness Videos
Recipe Videos
Fitness Tips
About Us
Contact Us
Corporate Wellness Program
Advertise with Us
Site Map
Privacy Policy
Copyright © 2004 - 2012 Diet Health, Inc. All rights reserved.


text:
Expedia Verified Reviews
Don't miss out on a lower price on this property
Get an overview of this hotelFamily-friendly Granada aparthotel in Central District, walk to San Jeronimo Monastery
Popular property highlights
This family-friendly Granada aparthotel is located in the historical district, within a 10-minute walk of Calle Gran Via de Colon, San Jeronimo Monastery, and Granada Cathedral. Plaza Nueva and Mirador de San Nicolas are also within 1 mi (2 km).
Property Features
A health club, self parking, and coffee/tea in a common area are available at this smoke-free aparthotel. WiFi in public areas is free. Additionally, concierge services, dry cleaning, and a 24-hour front desk are onsite.
Apartment Amenities
Each apartment features a kitchen with a refrigerator and a microwave, plus free WiFi and a plasma TV with satellite channels. Comforts include a memory foam bed and premium bedding, and guests will also find conveniences like a sofa bed and a living room.
Languages Spoken
- English
Suites Gran Via 44
Property Amenities
Property Amenities
Suites Gran Via 44 features a health club, tour/ticket assistance, and an arcade/game room. Public areas are equipped with complimentary wireless Internet access. This Victorian aparthotel also offers multilingual staff, coffee/tea in a common area, and concierge services. Limited onsite parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis (surcharge).
Suites Gran Via 44 is a smoke-free property.
- Free use of nearby fitness center
- Express check-in
- Coffee/tea in common areas
- Elevator/lift
- 24-hour front desk
- Express check-out
- Tours/ticket assistance
- Year Built 2009
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Self parking (surcharge)
- Free WiFi
- Babysitting or childcare (surcharge)
- Health club
- Smoke-free property
- Safe-deposit box at front desk
- Luggage storage
- Breakfast available (surcharge)
- Concierge services
- Parking (limited spaces)
- Number of floors - 3
- Arcade/game room
- Number of buildings/towers - 1
- Multilingual staff
- Free newspapers in lobby
Not available:
Air conditioning
Not available:
Not available:
Not available:
Not available:
Not available:
Not available:
Swimming pool
Not available:
Not available:
Not available:
Not available:
Not available:
Not available:
Dining area
Not available:
Not available:
Clothes dryer
Not available:
Outdoor space
Not available:
Not available:
Not available:
Not available:
Hair dryer
Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi
Languages Spoken
- English
- French
- Italian
- Spanish
Self parking (surcharge), Parking (limited spaces)
Room Amenities
- Premium bedding
- Separate sitting area
- Balcony
- In-room climate control (air conditioning)
- Soundproofed rooms
- Air conditioning
- Phone
- Refrigerator
- Minibar
- Coffee/tea maker
- Microwave
- Kitchen
- Daily housekeeping
- Turndown service
- Private bathroom
- Designer toiletries
- Free toiletries
- Hair dryer
- Slippers
- Shower only
- Rainfall showerhead
- Iron/ironing board (on request)
- Desk
- Sofa bed
- Cookware, dishware, and utensils
- Blackout drapes/curtains
- Satellite TV service
- Free WiFi
- Dial-up Internet access (surcharge)
- Separate dining area
- In-room safe (laptop compatible)
- Separate living room
- Number of bathrooms -
- Room service (limited hours)
- Sofa bed size
- Free cribs/infant beds
- Down comforter
- Individually furnished
- Individually decorated
- Memory foam mattress
- Plasma TV
Where to Eat
Full breakfasts are available for a surcharge and are served each morning between 7 AM and 10:30 AM.
Room service (during limited hours) is available.
Nearby Things to Do
Recreational amenities at the aparthotel include a health club.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.
- Snowboarding nearby
- Golfing nearby
- Snowmobiling nearby
- Snowshoeing nearby
- Downhill skiing nearby
- Cross-country skiing nearby
- Playground on site
- Bicycle rentals nearby
- Ski lessons available nearby
- Ski equipment rental shops nearby
- Hiking/biking trails nearby
- Golf lessons available nearby
- Scooter/moped rentals nearby
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please note them at check-out when you book your room.
- Accessible bathroom
- Roll-in shower
- In-room accessibility
Property Policies
Check-in time starts at 2 PM
Check-in time ends at noon
Check-out time is noon
Payment types
Children and extra beds
- Children are welcome.
- Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
- Free cribs (infant beds)!
- No pets or service animals allowed
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy.
Optional extras
- Fee for full breakfast: EUR 13.20 per person (approximately)
- Self parking fee: EUR 17.95 per day
Property Name
- Gran Via 44
- Gran Via Suites
- Suites Gran Via 44
- Suites Via 44
- Suites Via 44 Hotel
- Suites Via 44 Hotel Gran
- Via 44
- Suites Gran Via 44 Hotel Granada
- Suites Gran Via 44 Aparthotel
- Suites Via 44 Aparthotel
We should mention
Cash transactions at this property cannot exceed EUR 2500, due to national regulations. For further details, please contact the property using information in the booking confirmation. No pets and no service animals are allowed at this property.


text:
- My tags:
- marriage, exercise, children, baby, running, environment, recycling, organic, gardening, vitamins, jesus, air polution, toxic chemicals, poisoning, safe cleaning
- About me:
- I try to stay fit and enjoy running and pretty much anything that gets my heart pumping. I love to cook and bake. Like to put most anything on the grill. My idea of good tv usually involves spacecraft or mutants.
- My interests:
- I love to read, run and be outside. I enjoy teaching Sunday school and CPR and First Aid.
- My website/blog:
- http://pixieblog-pixie.blogspot.com/ http://www.fitfreeandwell.fourpointmoms.com/ http://www.fitfreeandwell.fourpointwellness.com
- How I de-stress:
- Grab a cappucino and surf the net or watch a DVD of my favorite show!
- Best advice I've gotten:
- Haven't had much advice. All of my friends stay home with thier kids. My Mom worked when we were kids and she said that she didn't consider that her day had started until 5:00 when she got to go home!
- Adjective to describe me:
- Willful
- My favorite book:
- Deception by Randy Alcorn
- My favorite movie:
- The Princess Bride
From Lincoln, Nebraska, United States
Joined 4th April 2008
My Day Snapshot
MortonPixie hasn't written a snapshot yet.
My Life To-Do List
Currently on my Life Wish List:
To take a couple of days off with just me and my Husband
Goals I am working on:
Completed the Half Marathon! Woohoo! Now I'm thinking I would like to participate in a Triathelon by the time I'm 40.
Short term goals...get going on this home based business thing. Sheesh, took me long enough!
Projects I am working on:
My whole life is a work in progress. Right now I'm working on being happy with my body. I'm trying to see myself as my husband and my children see me - beautiful and beloved.
Recent Activity
5 comments so far...
Yes! V is only 19 months old but her newest thing is saying "HELP HELP" when she wants something. You can imagine what that might be like in a grocery store with a little girl yelling "HELP HELP" from a shopping cart. I think it's funny, but onlookers give me strange glances.
Flag as inappropriate Posted by on 21st May 2008
Hey girl! Hope you are having a wonderful day!!!!
Flag as inappropriate Posted by on 20th May 2008
Thanks, as you know, that the famous Suken Garden. I see that you also enjoy exercising...my question is when do you find the time? I am trying to squeeze mine in during lunch hours (5 days a week at YMCA) but often times, I have to takes kids to doctor's apt, teacher conference meetings, etc.
Flag as inappropriate Posted by Julie on 11th April 2008
Hi MortonPixie. Welcome to Work it, Mom! I really enjoyed reading your profile notes. I'm a moderator here at WIM, so just let me know if you have questions or comments for us. :) Good for you on training for a 1/2 marathon. Much harder for a mom to do because first you have to make TIME to train, right? Check out our Catch your Breath blog. Blogger Karen is also training for a marathon!
Have a great day!
Flag as inappropriate Posted by Diane on 7th April 2008
Hello! I need to get on this site more. I'm sorry I missed your comment.
I saw you enjoy teaching Sunday School? Where do you go to church at? My husband, daughter and I go to Christ's Place.
Have a great day!
Flag as inappropriate Posted by Tiffany on 7th April 2008


text:
Students dive deeper into disciplines through faculty-mentored research
From conducting DNA sequencing to studying food insecurity in Adams County, Gettysburg College students are engaging in a broad range of faculty-mentored summer research projects. In diverse locations such as Maine, Bali, Iceland, India, and Nicaragua—and even right here on campus—students are expanding upon their classroom experiences through hands-on learning.
Research in the sciences
With support from endowed science research funds and a $1.3 million grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, there are 33 students conducting research in biology, chemistry, physics, environmental studies, mathematics, and health sciences. These students meet throughout the summer to discuss their research, attend workshops on graduate school and scientific writing, and will share their research on campus this fall.
Exploring Huntington's disease—Alex Campbell '15 arrived at Gettysburg as a pre-med major, but became interested in science research when he took the biology department's first-year research-based Phage Biology course. This summer, he's working in the lab with chemistry Prof. Shelli Frey to study Huntington's disease, a currently incurable hereditary neurodegenerative disorder. Campbell and Frey are examining the role of cell membranes in the toxic behavior of the mutant huntingtin protein, and are testing cholesterol and other biologically relevant molecules as potential therapeutic methods.


text:
French special forces and local troops raided an army base on Friday in northern Niger, ending a hostage seizure by Islamist fighters who had staged twin suicide bombings that killed at least 20 people.
The dawn raid came after Signatories in Blood, a jihadist group that claimed Thursday's blasts, threatened to continue attacking Niger until the country withdraws its forces from neighboring Mali, where they are part of a French-led military campaign against Islamists.
A French defense ministry official said two "terrorists" had been killed in the raid on a building at the Agadez army base, where Islamist fighters had holed up after the bombings and were holding a group of trainee soldiers hostage.
An elected official in Agadez, the main city in Niger's mostly desert north, gave a higher toll, saying three "terrorists" and three hostages had been killed, as well as a civilian caught in the crossfire.
French Defence Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian confirmed France had taken part in the raid.
"The situation has stabilized as we speak, especially in Agadez, where our special forces intervened to back the Niger forces," he said on France's BFMTV.
Signatories in Blood, founded by veteran Algerian jihadist Mokhtar Belmokhtar, first grabbed worldwide attention in January when it seized an Algerian gas plant in a brazen attack that left 38 hostages dead.
Belmokhtar had been reported dead last month by Chadian President Idriss Deby, who said the one-eyed extremist had been killed in fighting with Chadian troops in northeastern Mali.
However, the jihadist group's spokesman el-Hassen Ould Khalil was quoted as saying by a Mauritanian news agency that "it was Belmokhtar himself who supervised the operational plans" in the Niger attacks.
The group also warned of "further operations" in Niger and threatened France and other countries involved in what it called the "Crusader campaign" in Mali.
Thursday's attack at the Agadez army base left 18 soldiers and one civilian dead, officials said.
French nuclear group Areva said a near-simultaneous suicide bombing at its majority-owned uranium mine in northern Arlit had killed one and injured 14 employees.
Adding to the differing death toll figures in Agadez since Thursday's violence, Nigerien Defence Minister Mahamadou Karidjo, speaking on public radio, said a total of 24 troops and eight Islamist assailants had died in the fighting.
Areva president and chief executive officer Luc Oursel traveled to Niger on Friday to express his support for the victims and confirm the company's commitment to the country.
"My visit here is a testament to the strength of our engagement in Niger," he said in a statement.
An Areva employee said questions were still being asked as to how the attack could have happened considering "the impressive military and security apparatus" that was in place.
Meanwhile, Niger's public television network broadcast images of the destruction at the military base, including pieces of the suicide bombers' flesh strewn across the ground, debris from a four-by-four they blew up and roofs torn from buildings at the base.
Agadez residents said they were still reeling from the attacks, the first of their kind in the impoverished former French colony.
Signatories in Blood was the second group to claim the attacks.
The Movement for Oneness and Jihad in West Africa (MUJAO), one of three Islamist groups that seized northern Mali last year before French-led troops drove them out, also claimed responsibility on Thursday.


text:
Film Review: Twenty Feet from StardomHighly entertaining and revealing look at backup singers and their essential contributions to pop music.
As anyone who's frequented a lot of cabaret or live theatre performances can tell you, there are many unknown singers out there with phenomenal voices. Stardom is a whole other matter, incorporating elements of charisma, creativity, luck and career savvy. (We're thinking of you, Madonna.)
The aptly named documentary Twenty Feet from Stardom celebrates many of the best "unsung" talents, the invaluable backup singers whose contributions to classic pop recordings are indispensable but often taken for granted. Morgan Neville's film is a wonderful corrective to that oversight, a fast-paced and entertaining tour through several decades of pop-music history that will leave you not only smiling but much more appreciative of the dynamic talents profiled here and all those other unknowns who energize great recordings.
Several of the women Neville spotlights (and the film's subjects are nearly all female) came very close to achieving stardom, and one in particular did re-emerge to belated acclaim that put her in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. That would be Darlene Love, the best-known of the movie's subjects. Love began her career as a member of the trio The Blossoms, who backed such stars as Sam Cooke, Frank Sinatra and Dionne Warwick. Then she became one of the primary talents on the early '60s classics produced by Phil Spector, doing both background vocals and lead vocals on such hits as "He's a Rebel" and "He's Sure the Boy I Love," most often uncredited and sometime even attributed to a different group in the Spector stable, The Crystals. Control freak Spector never let her emerge as a full-fledged star, and her career sunk so low she retired from show business and worked as a housekeeper. But today, at the age of 71, Love is a highly regarded and still-active performer, familiar to fans of David Letterman's show for her annual appearances singing the holiday classic "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)."
Another absolutely indelible artist in Twenty Feet from Stardom is Merry Clayton, whose place in rock history is cemented by her searing performance of the "Rape! Murder!" chorus on The Rolling Stones' "Gimme Shelter" (recorded at two in the morning, no less). Like fellow big-voiced performers Lisa Fischer and Tata Vega seen and heard here, Clayton seemed to have all the resources for major stardom, except for that elusive hit record or brilliant career guidance. Fischer actually did have a brief heyday, winning a Grammy for a solo album; since 1989, she's been a backup performer on Rolling Stones tours, singing—what else?—"Gimme Shelter."
The new generation is chiefly represented here by Judith Hill, whose gig as a featured singer on Michael Jackson's hoped-for "This Is It" tour ended with the superstar's shocking death. Hill did get some major exposure at Jackson's memorial service, and until recently was considered a front-runner on the music-competition show "The Voice" until her puzzling elimination. The gifted Hill, reportedly on the verge of a record deal, may yet emerge a star.
Neville has recorded insightful appreciations of the backup community from big stars they've supported, including Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder and Mick Jagger. Sting ruefully laments that the fame game is "not a level playing field," but salutes the "spiritual component" that some backup singers seem to find reward enough. Indeed, Fischer rhapsodizes about the special shared experience that blending voices affords her tribe of dedicated artists. Stardom is ephemeral; these singers' contributions are the real thing.


text:
Film Review: Pitch PerfectThe quality of the material may not be the highest, but the energy and execution of it certainly is in this appealingly sprightly investigation of the world of a capella.
The influence of "Glee" continues apace. At Barden University, it's all about a capella groups and the big annual competition these falsettos and deep-bass impersonators are viciously vying to win. New student Beca (Anna Kendrick) finds herself unwillingly pulled into an all-girl team, The Bellas, by ambitious Chloe (Brittany Snow) and Aubrey (Anna Camp), who disgraced herself at the last contest by nervously barfing onstage. Beca, who really wants to be a cutting-edge DJ, has her own issues with intimacy and commitment, which seriously impede her relationship with Jesse (Skyler Astin), who sings with the rival all-boys group, The Treblemakers.
Director Jason Moore, who helmed Broadway's Avenue Q, clearly has the right love and feel for the material in Pitch Perfect and briskly makes the most of Kay Cannon's drily snarky script. There are a lot of bitchy laughs and funny lines such as The Bellas' habit of saying things like "Aca-awkward!" and the writing happily avoids the self-congratulatory p.c. mawkishness which periodically drags down "Glee." There are a couple of droll Asian characters: Beca's eternally sullen roommate (Jinhee Joung) and a hilarious, barely audible girl (Hana Mae Lee) who has somehow found herself in The Bellas. Cannon's writerly looseness never explains that, and she hasn't really provided enough witty dialogue for the actors, so it is up to them to pick up the slack.
Happily, they are more than up to the task, even with a dearth of consistently strong material; they're probably ad-libbing like mad. Kendrick skillfully suggests Beca's underlying complexities without making too heavy weather of it, and is an ingratiating guide to this weirdly melodic world. Voluptuous Rebel Wilson, who was the only bit of discernible humanity in Bachelorette, is immensely likeable as The Bellas' "Fat Amy" ("I call myself that before you twig bitches can"). She has a lusciously pretty face and a varied repertoire of fresh reactions and moves (like her "mermaid dance"), which joyously pull focus whenever she's onscreen.
Camp and Snow do their witchy and less-witchy roles with smooth efficiency. Co-producer Elizabeth Banks and John Michael Higgins play the competition judges with apt sarcasm if less-than-stellar lines. The rambunctiously talented Adam DeVine steals every scene he's in as Bumper, the ace of The Trebles, who drops the group when John Mayer throws him a bone, and is much more appealing than the essentially bland Astin. That actor is not helped by his character's empty pretentiousness, as, when trying to woo the movie-phobic Beca, he cites E.T., Rocky and that Gen X, Y and Z holy of holies, The Breakfast Club, as the best musically scored movies ever. (Ever heard of Bernard Herrmann?) .
The true dazzle here is provided by the musical numbers, which, as spiffily choreographed by Aakomon Jones, really sizzle. I'm not sure which actors actually did their own singing, but suffice it to say that pop-schlock songs like "The Sign," "Since U Been Gone" and "Titanium" are given such spirited workouts, they actually sound better here than in their original renditions. An after-school informal sing-off between The Bellas and The Treblemakers has a breathtaking brio, with song after song piling up into a pretty glorious vocal mash-up. Such pleasures gleefully override an unfortunate second vomiting scene for Aubrey—a too-Bridesmaids gross-out moment—and the inappropriate Vogue-ing choreography which undermines the would-be devastating "Don't You Forget About Me" presentation which ultimately reunites the estranged Beca and Jesse.


text:
KFC Thailand: Sorry We Told You To Order Chicken During Tsunami Scare
While people were terrified during Wednesday's earthquake, KFC Thailand decided it was a good idea to remind them that nothing eases the fear of being hit with a potentially-devastating tsunami like a bucket of chicken. Yeah, that didn't go over so well.
The company is now apologizing for posting a message on its Facebook page during the tsunami scare. While people were being told to evacuate from beach areas, says the Associated Press, KFC Thailand posted:
"Let's hurry home and follow the earthquake news. And don't forget to order your favorite KFC menu."
Yes, right! That's what they always tell you to do in case of a natural disaster — eat fried food as you head to high ground.
Hundreds of angry commenters hit Thai web boards, denouncing the company as insensitive and selfish. Today, that post has been removed and replaced with one asking for forgiveness.
KFC Thailand apologizes for 'improper' Facebook posting during Tsunami Scare [Washington Post]
Want more consumer news? Visit our parent organization, Consumer Reports, for the latest on scams, recalls, and other consumer issues.


text:
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
by, September 25th, 2013 at 04:02 PM (624 Views)
SCY@FGCU Aquatic Center
Air temp 73 Water temp 79
Raining, dark and cloudy, humidity at 91
Warm Up
200 Fly 2(25K/75DPS)
4(2x25)IMO DPS@80%
*Set 1*
---100 FR Kick/bd-fins
2(4x25 FR Kick Fast on 15, 20, 25, 30) w/bd-fins
*Set 2*
3(4x50 FR on 1:10) 50s 1-3 as CU, 50/4 Swim, desc 1-4
1/with L-agility paddles-snorkel *32, 30, 29, 28
2/with snorkel *30, 29, 28, 27
3/with M-agility paddles *29, 28, 27, 26
*Set 3*
---200 Kick/monofin shooter, as 4(25sdk/25/bk) EZ
4x50 kick/mf Fast on 1:20, desc 1-4 from 85%, as 25sdk/25bk
*10/13/24, 9/12/23, 8/12/22, 8/11/21
---200 K as 2(50BR/bk,50dk/bk)
*Set 4*
10x300 FR on 4:00, 300 as 3(75CU/25DPS Fast) steady desc 1-10, w/snorkel-agility paddles-fins
Warm Down
4(2x25 on :15 rest) IMO EZ DPS
Seems that I require about a week to adjust from LCM to SCY, just I did previously from SCY to SCY, even though I have been training consistently throughout. Set 1 was something coach Chuck tossed out at me while I was doing a few minutes of bands on the deck, as I normally do not kick with the board. It was harder than expected, and I thought I had a break between the two rounds, but he was yelling at me to keep going so I did. The first one was about 11, and then I just went as fast as I could when he said go. Later he said I ranged from 10-12s.
In doing Set 2, I descended with catch up freestyle drill 50s 1-3 with 50/4 being FR DPS about SPL-12/13. I switch around the equipment to make it interesting and to keep refocusing on blending technique, power, and body balance.
Set 3 was my request so coach Chuck could get the results and split the 25s. I had been doing quality fin swimming almost daily with the longer stiffer TYR fins (compare to the shorter floppy Slim Fins I have). When I started using the Finis Monofin Shooter again last week I was able to quickly adapt over several days. Coach Chuck says my goal for underwater 25s should be at 7, so today I got down to 8, and that is a good start. We did not focus so much on the total 50 time as much as each 25. The splits are from his watch for each 25, foot to hand touch, and then total time including the open turn.
Set 4 was just some base yardage for 2.5K OW I am doing in October 5 in Sarasota as a cycle of freestyle drill with faster 25s. The 3K will be one loop, and I plan to start the swim out about 75% and build from there.


text:
... where I ramble on about my love of quilting with my work in progress, share some of my day's doings, and offer some sewing tips along the way... You can find my completed projects on my web page at www.kwiltnkats.com. Comments make me smile =^.^=...
Design Wall Monday, May 14, 2012
6 comments:
- Janet O. said...
Sandi, I love every one of your projects! They are all gorgeous and you can will them to me. : )
- May 14, 2012 at 7:49 AM
- Quilter Kathy said...
Me too...love them all! Great quilt along blocks!
- May 14, 2012 at 10:00 AM
- Vicki said...
So pretty, the flowers are really unique and make a lovely quilt. I am quite taken with your quilt along blocks, they look pretty small!
- May 14, 2012 at 10:21 AM
- betty said...
Your flower blocks look great, it is a lovely pattern, you just keep moving long. Good Job
- May 14, 2012 at 11:00 AM
- shannon said...
i like the Knickles beginning- will be watching to see it's progress!
(found you through design wall monday link)
- May 14, 2012 at 3:11 PM
- Kate said...
Beautiful projects. Love the colors you are using in your flower blocks. Good luck with all your May deadlines.
- May 14, 2012 at 7:27 PM


text:
So it's been killing my wife each month when we apply Frontline to Skippy, seeing him claw and scratch at the back of his shoulder blades, basically being uncomfortable for an entire day+night. She hates the fact that we have to "poison" him in order to keep him flea-free.
The result was that she came home from the pet store the other day with a bottle of Lumino's "Diatomaceous Earth". Before using it, I tried Googling it to get more information/reviews on it, but didn't find much, apart from the fact that it's advertised as organic and non-toxic.
Does anyone have any experience and/or knowledge on this product? I would be especially interested to know if it is effective at all.
Thanks in advance!


text:
Q. Many years ago, some "Rhodes scholar" painted the granite surrounding our garden on Commonwealth Ave. Thanks to the slings and arrows of time, some of it has worn or flaked away, but that which remains is resistant to peeling. Some of my neighbors are inclined (horror of horrors) to repaint it. To me that would be tantamount to pickling a priceless mahogany antique with white paint. I am sure sandblasting would work, but setting up to do so without damaging plants and the fence would be a problem even if the Back Bay Architectural Commission were to approve it. I hope you will have a simpler solution.
PHILIP HOUCK, Boston
A. I sympathize with you, for someone painting granite, which I think is just as bad as painting brick or other masonry or stone. But I am confused as to what the granite is: foundation, wall, sidewalk. Sanding would be difficult on any uneven surface, and sandblasting may be illegal these days. But a paint stripper such as citrus-based Citristrip should do well, though slow. It is water soluble, and I don't think it will hurt these plantings, although you could cover plantings and other sensitive areas with tarps.
Q. What do you think of those movable machine-driven awnings to keep the patio shaded? Are there any problems with rust or anything else?
A. They do work, and the only complaint I've gotten is that birds tend to nest under them, creating a droppings problem. There are several cures for the birds, including leaving them alone until the fledglings fly the nest.
Q. The mirror fell off my medicine cabinet after 40 years of service. It looks to be fastened with rivets, and did not break. Can I put it back?
SARAH, by e-mail
A. If the rivets are in the glass, or were, it might be difficult to fix. If so, measure the cabinet and check out the big-box stores or a bathroom dealer for a same-size replacement. An antique one made of wood could also work.
Q. I have a strange thing happening on my kitchen walls that were painted seven years ago. A bunch of hairline cracks appeared about two years ago, in the paint itself. What went wrong and how can I fix it?
MARILYN, from Somerville
A. I think the paint was applied too thickly, and being relatively bulky, expanded and contracted with heat and cold, causing the paint to separate. Weird, but I think true. The cure: sand with medium coarse sandpaper to try and reduce those cracks, then wash with detergent and water, let dry, and apply one thin coat of an eggshell finish interior latex wall paint. Apply a second thin coat if necessary.
A caller once asked me, how do you apply a thin coat with a roller? Here's how: load your roller tray, load your roller, then roll it on the drainer part of the tray before rolling on the wall. Do a second thin coat as necessary.
Q. My asbestos siding is peeling, but not a lot. The painter said he would power-wash the siding at a pressure of 800 pounds per square inch. Is that OK?
LINDA, from the South Shore
A. I checked a few Google sites on using power-washing on the peeling paint, and got no definitive answer. The painter should check with the law to make sure the 800 PSI is safe. Otherwise, I suggest trying to remove the peeling paint with a garden hose. Even this might not be legit if the peeling sections are not saved and disposed of safely.
Q. Can applying window tint film negate the warranty on windows whether the manufacturer so stipulates or not?
DONALD T. MEYER, by e-mail
A. That's a good question that I never considered when a caller asked about window tinting and window films. It is best to check with the dealer who installed the windows. If the windows are out of warranty, it does not matter.
Q. My swirled ceiling has a large water stain with blistering from a previous leak. A contractor said he would cut out the stained part and put in a patch that would match the swirls perfectly, for a charge far less than my insurance settlement.
BOB, from Maynard
A. Go for it. To save even more, paint the stain with two coats of clear shellac, then repaint the ceiling.Peter Hotton is also in the g section on Thursdays. He is available 1-6 p.m. Tuesdays to answer questions. Call 617-929-2930. Hotton (firstname.lastname@example.com) also chats online 2-3 p.m. Thursdays on www.Boston.com


text:
For most Celtics, Wednesday night was the first time they have played on the same court with Austin Rivers since the coach's son was beginning high school.
And they noticed his maturity, having nothing but compliments after Austin's Hornets stunned the Celtics at TD Garden.
It was the fourth time in NBA history a father went up against his son, and Doc Rivers wasn't the only one who thought the event was bizarre.
"It was strange for everybody in here," Kevin Garnett said. "If we didn't feel old, we feel a little old [now] seeing a kid who used to used to say absolutely nothing and dribble his ball and kind of being in his own little world to being a young man now in the league and trying to make something of himself and doing a good job of it.
"Talking trash, running up and down, leading his team. It's good to see Austin doing real good. We root for him obviously when he's away from here but I'll admit it, it was a little odd. But he's family and we all hit the floor and we're trying to win, but yeah, it was odd."
Rivers scored 8 points, his most since Dec. 28, in the Hornets' 90-78 win. Paul Pierce was one of the few Celtics who has seen Rivers's development over the past several years, watching a preteen Rivers workout during school breaks at the team's Waltham practice facility.
During one stretch late in the first half Wednesday, Pierce crossed over Rivers and canned a short jumper.
"I see a kid who's going to grow and grow as he continues to develop," Pierce said. "He plays with tremendous confidence and he's going to have a bright future, as long as he continues to work hard. He's had his ups and downs throughout the season but a lot of rookies do when they first come in but he'll eventually find his niche and be a player in this league."
And Pierce understands Rivers's path. He was once a high school phenom playing often against NBA players during the summer.
"I knew he would be an NBA player, I had a chance to play one-on-one [with him] when he was like in the 10th grade," Pierce said. "I think I went upstairs and told Doc, 'You got an NBA player right here. He'll be able to make it to the NBA.' "
When asked if he beat Austin, Pierce said, "Yeah barely. I took it lightly. I knew he had a lot of confidence. I knew how hard he worked. I saw his potential and upside. You just saw the things that you see in current NBA players; you saw he had a lot of that in him."
Stars lining up
With the results to be released Thursday evening, Garnett was leading Miami's Chris Bosh by more than 28,000 votes to be the starting center for the Eastern Conference in next month's All-Star Game in Houston. Garnett was passed over last year during the lockout-shortened season, ending a string of 14 consecutive years being elected.
Garnett said the break last year was "great," but he would be grateful for the opportunity to return.
"If it happens, then obviously I am more than gracious," he said. "If it doesn't, I'll definitely take advantage of the break. You don't put yourself there. Everything is voted on, and any time you can say you've been playing for countless years and the fans still appreciate you for what you do, that says a lot."
Meanwhile, Rondo was trailing only Miami's Dwyane Wade in voting among guards and is expected to be a starter. He led Brooklyn's Deron Williams, who was third, by more than 325,000 votes.
Healing process
Jeremiah Rivers, Doc's oldest son who is on the injured list for the Maine team in the NBADL, said he is a couple of weeks away after having surgery to remove bone spurs from both ankles.
"This is the best I've felt in years, the quickest I've been, the strongest I've been," he said. "The leanest I've been. I feel very good right now. I've been working my tail off. It's probably the hardest I've ever worked."
Rivers said he made a mistake by trying to play in the NBA Summer League with the Knicks entry.
"I had some pretty intense bone spur removal," he said. "I had them all over my ankle, which is kind of the issue.
"Over the years, I dealt with them in college and in high school. I went overseas [to Serbia], and we're practicing twice a day, and it just got to the point where I couldn't do what I am accustomed to doing.
"I rushed it and came back almost two months too early and was playing at like 50 percent [in summer league]."
Wilcox close
Chris Wilcox dressed for the second consecutive game, but Doc Rivers wants his backup center to participate in another practice before bringing him back from a sprained ulnar collateral ligament in his right wrist. Wilcox has not played since Dec. 18 against the Bulls and was projected to miss one month . . . New Orleans was without guard Eric Gordon, who had led the club to a 4-1 record in the past five games. Wednesday was his first back-to-back opportunity since returning from knee surgery, and coach Monty Williams chose to give him the night off . . . Hornets guard Brian Roberts left the game in the second quarter with a sprained left ankle suffered when he landed awkwardly after a drive.Gary Washburn can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com Follow him on Twitter @gwashNBAGlobe


text:
Several Campbell County middle school track and field athletes concluded an outstanding season during the recent sectional championships held hosted by Clinton.
If you currently subscribe or have subscribed in the past to the Lafollette Press, then simply find your account number on your mailing label and enter it below.
Click the question mark below to see where your account ID appears on your mailing label.
If you are new to the award winning Lafollette Press and wish to get a subscription or simply gain access to our online content then please enter your ZIP code below and continue to setup your account.
|ZIP Code: