text:
A blizzard was raging in Maine when Dean Rice, 52, gave in to a friend's urging to come work with him in sunny Florida three years ago.
"A buddy of mine kept saying, 'Come on down! Come on down!'" recalls Dean.
His wife, Pam, 59, had already had a couple of heart attacks and had endured open heart surgery in 2005. He thought the change would do them both some good, and he knew Florida as a place where construction was booming.
He figured a healthy man unafraid of hard work could sock away some money for retirement, still a few years safely in the future.
Dean, who drove heavy equipment on construction sites for a living, packed up a Penske truck, his wife, their belongings and the family mutt and headed south.
His intentions were good, but his timing was terrible. Florida was diving into the Great Recession, construction work was drying up fast, and the new job lasted just half a day.
Within three months, however, he found another job in a national retail chain selling home improvement supplies. He didn't make much money at it, but it was enough for their meager style of living.
Staph infections after her heart surgery had left Pam weak and unable to work as a graphic designer. The couple did not apply for disability.
"I was brought up to take care of my wife," Dean says. "It's what I've always done."
They also took a gamble: Because employee contributions to the company-provided insurance were so high, they decided to decline it and cover their own medical expenses out of pocket.
It's an economic move many people make every year, with fingers crossed.
An estimated 50 million people in the United States are uninsured, including 3.7 million in Florida. Many of them are working and either their employers don't provide insurance or, like the Rices, they find the premiums too expensive.
When everyone stays well, it's a money-saver for tight budgets. But it all began to unravel for the Rices after an accident at work in July of 2011.
"Another associate and I were getting a large roll of carpet down from a shelf," Dean says. "I was walking backward to get out of the way so it could swing around, and I tripped over an electrical pallet and went down. I went down hard."
Two separate scans showed three ruptured discs in his spine. The pain is excruciating, he says.
He filed for worker's compensation while continuing to work. He had to work. He had no choice.
One day, about a year later, his leg went numb on the job and he fell again. This time his physician gave him such stringent restrictions that he had to leave the job.
"His supervisor said, 'You're a good worker, but there is no work here you can do,'" said Pam, who has since applied for disability because of her heart condition.
In the months since then, their time has been spent filling out paperwork and trying to get worker's comp to cover surgery that two orthopedic surgeons say Dean needs.
They will meet with a mediator in February about that.
Meanwhile, their meager savings kept slipping away.
The couple cut where they could: cable, phone, Internet, AAA to protect them if it blew a tire or needed a jump-start. All of it, gone, as they got closer and closer to the edge.
They continued to scrape together $575 per month for rent for a modest home in an older Englewood neighborhood where they felt safe.
With nothing left to cut and with compensation delayed yet again, they faced the end of this year with $3 in the bank.
"Our landlady was understanding, but she was using the rent to cover a mortgage on this house," Pam says. "She told us we had three days."
For the first time in their lives, the couple realized they could be homeless.
There was only one living relative, a daughter in Connecticut, who paid a recent electric bill despite not being well off herself. They couldn't ask her for more.
"We didn't really have any friends here we could impose on," Dean says. "You know, there were guys I knew at work, but we weren't close enough for something like that."
The couple had no money for a move and neither was healthy enough now to load or unload furniture themselves.
Pam dreaded the thought of abandoning all their belongings, which included sentimental items from their parents.
Dean was deeply ashamed.
"I've never collected unemployment in my life," he said, as tears started to flow. "I finally had to go to a food bank so we could eat."
Not knowing what else to do, the couple visited Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, in North Port.
Mary Koctur, director of financial assistance, told them Season of Sharing funds were available to help.
"A lot of funding sources have restrictions that the money has to go to families with children," she says. "We try to get help for adults who are trying to get on their feet, just like Dean and Pam, people who are experiencing a one-time crisis."
Catholic Charities paid the rent.
"We sit down with people and help them come up with a budget and see what they could cut back on," Koctur says. "Pam and Dean had already done that for themselves."
She says the wretched economy has the charity inundated with requests for assistance, usually about 300 a month.
Many times, a health issue is what sends people over the brink into crisis, she says.
The Rices say that one-time rental assistance kept them in their home. On Wednesday, Dean received his first worker's compensation check, a little more than 60 percent of his salary. By the time rent is due again in February, he will be able to pay it.
The couple had difficulty putting into words how relieved they are to have a roof over their heads.
"We want people to know how thankful we are to them," Pam says.
Charity helps keep a couple in home
A blizzard was raging in Maine when Dean Rice, 52, gave in to a friend's urging to come work with him in sunny Florida three years ago.


text: The How-To Redneck teaches you how to create a disco ball with items you have in your home. You will need string, small flashlights, duct tape, and a ceiling fan. Attach the hanging flashlights to your ceiling fan with duct tape, turn off the lights, turn on the fan, and you'll be ready to party.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Exhibition Date:
24 Sep 2010- 12 Dec 2010
School Year:
2010 - 2011
Faulconer Gallery
When we think of Grinnell as a place, we often sum up our location as simply a small town with a small elite college in a sea of corn. Yet we know that Grinnell, as a community, is much more. To reveal and celebrate those many intertwining yet often invisible facets, Faulconer Gallery presents four projects aimed at inspiring us to rethink what we know about our place. Projects include an examination of attitudes towards work; a photo essay on multiple, and contested, uses of a site; an installation investigating the implications of national and international cargo shipped through Grinnell; and a look at current and pending environmental issues facing the community.
Click on links for introductions and installation views
- (Un)Seen Work: Traditions and Transitions
- Life and Death on the Prairie: Photographs by Stephen Longmire
- Ideal X, The Moving Crew
- Collect(ive): Grinnell People's Museum
Iowa Public Radio Interview: "Talk of Iowa," October 11, 2010


text:
La-da dee-dah...
Remember the rain,
And that stroll down the lane?
The croissants
In that sweet, old cafe?
You and I,
Hand in hand.
Life was good,
Life was grand.
C'est possible,
A more perfect day?
Means I love you.
It's easy to fall
In love
Here in Montréal.
And remember the rink?
Our first hockey, I think.
"How romantic," we thought
As they played.
Ah, the crashes,
And the falls,
The careening into walls.
Such sweet memories
Won't ever fade.
Belle Province,
Remember that?
The little table
Where we sat
And we shared
A poutine,
And then one more.
We ate another.
We were stuffed.
We should have stopped,
But ended up
Eating four!
back to top


text:
The Man Behind the Attack on Guantanamo
By Rocco DiPippo
FrontPageMagazine.com | June 16, 2005
general leading the force to free the captive enemy from the U.S. detention
center in Guantanamo Bay, and inflict a humiliating defeat on the United States
is so-called "civil rights" and "Constitutional" attorney Michael
Ratner. It was Ratner who led the way in recruiting
elite lawyers to defend the enemy combatants being interrogated at Gitmo.
But Ratner is a long-time leader of two pro-Communist and anti-American
organizations who have for decades have lent aid and comfort to America's
enemies in the Cold War and beyond.
Michael Ratner is a lawyer who began his legal career in the late 1960s at the National Lawyers Guild, a Soviet created front group which still embraces its Communist heritage. He worked his way up through the NLG's radical ranks to become its president, then moved on to hold the same position at the Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR), which share's the NLG's anti-American radicalism and was founded by pro-Castro lawyers Arthur Kinoy and William Kunstler. Among its many outrages, the CCR has defended domestic and international terrorists, and has honored Ratner's NLG colleague and convicted terrorist enabler Lynne Stewart, a modern Legal Left idol. Since 9/11, Ratner and his comrades have attempted to extend undeserved "civil rights" on Islamist murderers with notable success. On this front, Ratner and the Legal Left have dealt America its few setbacks in the War on Terror.
One year ago the U.S. suffered its first major loss in this war, a strategic and propaganda defeat, related to America's abilities to imprison and interrogate enemies that it captures. Abu Ghraib was a huge propaganda victory, both for Islamists, who used it to "justify" their violent attacks, and for fifth column leftists, who made use of the media's saturation coverage to portray the U.S. as the world's biggest oppressor, the Bush administration as a cabal of Nazi thugs, and the Iraq as an immoral undertaking. The gross overplay of that prison scandal in concert with other overblown and sometimes fabricated stories – like Newsweek's "Koran in the toilet" canard – emboldened Islamic terrorists, eroded U.S. public support for the War on Terror, and damaged America's credibility around the world.
Now, as our memories of 9/11 continue to fade into the past, Michael Ratner has opened another battle against the War on Terror – at Guantanamo Bay. Never mind that almost all of the prisoners at Guantanamo were picked up by U.S. forces doing battle for the Taliban and al-Qaeda in Afghanistan, or that many of them are, in Defense Secretary Rumsfeld words, "the worst of the worst." Never mind that al-Qaeda members and close associates of Osama bin Laden fill their ranks, or that they're trained to fabricate tales of abuse to erode their enemy's morale. Although most of them are violent religious fanatics, and although they've been treated better than any captured combatants in world history, Michael Ratner and his lawyers want to provide them the chance to trumpet their "grievances" to a sympathetic press, exploit legal loopholes, and ultimately return to the battlefield.
The fight to liberate Guantanamo prison
As the wreckage of the Twin Towers was still smoldering, Michael Ratner began planning his attack on America's post-9/11 defense strategy. Realizing that it would take major legal clout to seriously subvert the War on Terror, Ratner began taking steps to attract major U.S law firms to his cause. First, he adopted a high public profile against the Bush administration's reaction to 9/11 by savaging every facet of its plan to protect the U.S. from future attack. Working the "civil liberties" angle for all its worth, Ratner raged at the Patriot Act, railed against profiling techniques designed to ferret out Islamic terrorists in our midst, and opposed invading Afghanistan to hunt down and capture Osama bin Laden and his Taliban henchmen.
The mainstream press assisted Ratner by promoting him as a champion of civil rights while carefully hiding his lifelong radicalims from the American public (see below). When the Islamists' battleground changed, Ratner took a prominent role in antiwar movement by opposing Operation Iraqi Freedom. Ratner became a staple of antiwar, anti-Bush events. More importantly, he filed a series of high-profile nuisance suits against the Bush administration, one of which attempted to have Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld arrested and tried for "war crimes" by German courts.
In April 2002, Ratner led the Center for Constitutional Rights in filing a class action suit, Turkmen v. Ashcroft, on behalf of Muslim illegal aliens and non-citizens who were picked up for questioning shortly after the 9/11 attacks. The suit alleges "that the INS arrested this group on the pretext of minor immigration violations and secretly detained them for the weeks and months the FBI took to clear them of terrorism, in violation of the U.S. Constitution and international human rights law." Filed against former Attorney General John Ashcroft, FBI Director Robert Mueller, former INS Commissioner James Ziglar, and officials of the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, the Turkmen case catapulted Ratner into the legal spotlight and – according to him – gained him valuable legal help from other firms once too nervous to touch cases involving 9/11 suspects. He set out to recruit pro bono help, and sympathetic leftist counselors now had fewer inhibitions to joining him.
After suffering a series of legal setbacks in his pro-terrorist legal crusade, Ratner won a major victory in Rasul v. Bush, a suit he brought seeking to grant Islamist terror suspects access to U.S. courts. That victory cleared the way for him to gain direct access to Guantanamo's prisoners. With this, the trickle of queries from other law firms soon became a steady stream of volunteers to his cause.
Now it's a torrent, and major U.S. firms including Clifford Chance; Dorsey & Whitney; Allen & Overy; Covington & Burling; and Wilmer, Cutler, Pickering, Hale & Dorr – the last of which also does business with companies involved in the U.S. defense, national security, and government contracts sectors – have teamed up with Michael Ratner and CCR to provide legal services to terrorists and terrorist suspects. (Does the firm know Ratner's background? If so, does the government know about its connection to Ratner?) Today, teams of lawyers fly to Guantanamo Bay to help people who, if given the chance, would kill all of them and make the Koran their only basis of law.
Obviously, there are many ethical lawyers and law firms that represent violent criminals and defend those with whom they may have deep moral and ideological disagreements – but Ratner is not one of them. "I don't usually take cases where I disagree with the politics of the people involved," he said in a 2002 interview, clarifying where he stands on anti-American terrorism.
Ratner's odd view of "justice" stems from his decades in service to the radical cause. Ratner's pro-Communist, pro-terrorist views are perhaps best illustrated by his affinity for Cuba's totalitarian regime and by his love of the man who set up Castro's KGB-inspired prison system, Ché Guevara. Guevara – who was known for taping his victims' mouths shut to avoid hearing their screams as he tortured and murdered his way through Cuba – is, despite his real life incompetence, a hero of mythical proportions to the Left. Ratner chose to sing Che's praises in a1997 book:
…for many of us seeking to change our society, Cuba was a desirable model. And it was Ché Guevara, more than any other figure, who embodied both that revolution and solidarity with peoples fighting to be free from U.S. hegemony…Ché has remained my hero ever since. (Emphasis added.)
In the same book, Ratner recounts a hiking trip he once took to retrace the path of Guevara:
Tears streamed down my cheeks, my energy was renewed and I completed the hike. To be like Ché: To be selfless, to make a family of one's comrades, to give up comfort and material gain for the revolution, to risk and probably give one's life to free humanity.
Though he fights to keep violent convicted criminals who flee to Cuba safe from extradition back to America, "civil rights champion" Ratner has never spoken up for the civil rights of non-violent Cuban dissidents – including the journalists, artists, and activists who have been tossed into Castro's horrific prisons after mock trials. Ironically, some of those hellholes are a short distance from the U.S. run camp at Guantanamo Bay.
Ratner's CCR has almost always received modest funding, most of it from far-Left organizations and leftist-run foundations. But funding of CCR increased by leaps and bounds after Ratner adopted his post-9/11 high profile.
The George Soros-funded Open Society Institute, the Tides Foundation, and other leftist support groups began heavily funding Ratner and CCR's anti-Bush, antiwar, anti-American agendas.
Thanks to these forces, the proper relationship between prisoner and guard, deemed vital for successful interrogation, has now been damaged and the Department of Defense (DOD) faces a dilemma. Ratner's suit has already somewhat undermined its effectiveness at Guantanamo Bay. If the DOD closes Gitmo, the prisoners are set free or are moved to the U.S. where it will be nearly impossible to deny them access to U.S. courts. If the department moves the prisoners to another location outside of U.S. jurisdiction, Ratner and his fifth column legal army will simply begin another high-profile fight for the prisoners' "rights," and the propaganda battle begins anew with continued erosion of popular and political support for the War on Terror.
Though the battle for Guantanamo's prisoners is not yet over, but from the time the first plane-load of lawyers touched down in Cuba, two things became abundantly clear: Islamist psychopaths had won a major victory against America's resolve to fight them.
And Michael Ratner, George Soros, and a host of prestigious American law firms helped them.
Rocco DiPippo, a free-lance political writer, publishes The Autonomist blog and is a contributor to David Horowitz's Moonbat Central group blog.


text:
This phone number and email address are not monitored outside our business hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. If your inquiry is urgent, please call the on-call media relations representative at 412-392-7963.
Contact UPMC at1-800-533-UPMC (8762).
Go to Find a Doctor to search for a UPMC doctor.
Dr. Moore focuses his research on the link between viruses and cancer. Through his research, he hopes to answer why some viruses evolve to cause cancer while others cause nothing worse than the common cold.
Dr. Moore and his wife, Yuan Chang, MD, discovered Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), also called human herpesvirus 8. KSHV causes Kaposi's sarcoma, the most common malignancy occurring in AIDS patients. Kaposi's sarcoma, a disease in which cancer cells are found in the tissues under the skin or mucous membranes, can be very aggressive in people whose immune systems are suppressed. Prior to this discovery, scientists had worked for 20 years to find an infectious agent associated with Karposi's sarcoma.
He and Dr. Chang also are the discoverers of Merkel cell polyomavirus, which their research indicates is the culprit that causes the rare and deadly skin cancer, Merkel cell carcinoma.
The research undertaken by Drs. Moore and Chang at UPCI centers on the discovery of new pathogens through the use of novel methods for sorting and amplifying gene fragments.
Dr. Moore received his medical degree from the University of Utah College of Medicine. Along with Dr. Chang, he has published more than 90 articles and reviews in the medical literature. He currently serves on the editorial board of Virus Research, Emerging Infectious Diseases and the Epstein-Barr Virus Report. He has received numerous awards, including the Meyenburg Foundation Award for Cancer Research, the Robert Koch Prize and the New York City Mayor's Award for Excellence in Science & Technology.
Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences
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Pittsburgh, PA, USA | UPMC.com


text:
First off I can't believe they made an orange V4. I thought Naish stopped making the orange and yellow kites by now. Everyone wants the Red or Blue ones. Judging by the 2005 line it looks like they got the message.
As for a board I just posted a board in the Classifieds on this site:
http://bayareakiteboarding.com/ads/show ... product=43
It's brand new. Take a look.
As for lines you should not have a problem with the Naish lines. They are considered the best in the business. They cost the most as well. You will see why if you try two different sets of lines. Just make sure you always get any sand of your connection points. That is what screws up your lines the most.
As for the line lengths. You would be best to make adjustments to the flying lines (Red and blue) and make the adjustments on the bar end of things. As I said fly the kite first. Naish has the lines set up pretty close out of the bag but sometimes they rig lines for the X3 or X4 and put that bar in your bag. Just my experience.


text:
Those interested in seeking a seat on the Neosho City Council may file for office in less than two weeks.
Those interested in seeking a seat on the Neosho City Council may file for office in less than two weeks.
Filing for the April 2 election opens at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 11 and runs through Tuesday, Jan. 15.
There are two, three-year terms up for grabs on the Neosho City Council, seats currently held by Tom Workman and Steve Hart.
Workman was elected to a three-year term in 2010, while Hart was appointed to the council in April 2011 to fill the unexpired term of Heather Bowers, who was removed from the council two years into her term.
In April 2012, Hart was elected to a one-year term, left from the unexpired term of former councilman Chris Wright, who was elected in 2010 but resigned in January 2011 after accepting a job that took him out of town for extended periods of time. Council members at the time appointed David Ruth to fill the seat until the April 2012 election. In that election, Ruth ran for the three-year seat formerly held by Bowers and Hart, while Hart sought the one-year term left on the seat previously filled by Wright and Ruth.
To file for city council, candidates must live within the city limits, be a registered voter and be at least 21 years of age at the time of the filing. A minimum of 35 signatures from registered Neosho voters is required prior to certification as a candidate.
Interested persons should visit the Neosho City Hall, 203 E. Main St. to pick up a petition for nomination of candidate for city council. Those are available in the office of the city clerk.


text:
Hi, if you are a new and returning player and looking for a new LS that is focused on helping players.
I would like to welcome you to join my LS RisenShadows. Our focus is getting new people and returning players the help they need to get old content done and ready to face challenges for current and future content.
If you would like to join send a tell to Litewait, Fistfulofcake, Jillytaru, Yurka, Zephit, and Zohar.
Hope to see you in game!!
( I'm usually on in the evening ) EST
Edited, Jan 26th 2013 5:34pm by LiteDeath
Edited, Feb 9th 2013 7:40pm by LiteDeath
Edited, Feb 9th 2013 7:41pm by LiteDeath
Edited, Mar 16th 2013 9:53pm by LiteDeath
Edited, Mar 26th 2013 1:45am by LiteDeath


text:
Quark® software will help you create and deliver accurate, relevant, and attractive communications anywhere.
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For further information and discussions about Software Licensing options, please use the following details to contact the Software Licensing team now.
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text:
ENGL 326 Literature of Diaspora (1)
Students in this course will examine literature from various geographic locations comprising a particular culture's (South Asian or Latin) dispersal of people, language, and culture-and study how various contexts influence and shape cultural production and representations of identity. Within these myriad sites, we will investigate the double consciousness necessary to maintain a sense of 'self' outside one's place of cultural origin, and the impact of colonization on definitions of 'home.' Our primary focus will be textual analysis, including questions of genre, language, narration and perspective. We will also study the sociopolitical and cultural conflicts and causes for emigration that provide the fiction's contexts (in the case of South Asian diaspora: caste and religious divisions; India's partition; civil war in Sri Lanka; tensions within England, North America, and the Caribbean), and discuss how national divisions play out in the microcosm of each text. Discussions and readings of primary literature will be aided by (post) colonial discourse and contemporary multimedia.
- Offering: Alternating years
- Instructor: Makau, Perez


text:
David Hall: The reverse design of the 1913 Type I Buffalo nickel caused the denomination "FIVE CENTS" to wear off quickly. So the mint rightfully changed the design mid-year and placed the "FIVE CENTS" in a recess below the Buffalo, thus creating the 1913 Type II Buffalo nickel. The 1913 Type II Philadelphia Buffalo nickel is a high mintage coin that is fairly available in all grades. In mint state condition, though not rare in an absolute sense, the 1913 Type II is much rarer than the 1913 Type I.
The 1913 Type II is usually well struck. Luster is usually either satin grey or slightly frosty.
Pop 1256, 870 higher


text:
Maroon 5 star Adam Levine is reportedly planning two weddings next summer (14) after proposing to model Behati Prinsloo.
The rocker is keen to include his family and friends and his fiancee's clan in Namibia in the nuptials but is struggling to get them all together, so he has decided to have two parties, according to a friend.
The source tells Life & Style magazine, "He went back and forth about having the wedding in Behati's native Namibia, or in Los Angeles, where they live. Behati's parents would love for the wedding to be in Africa, but they understand that it is a major trek for all of their friends, so they've decided on having a smaller service in Africa and then something bigger around L.A."
Levine proposed to Prinsloo in July (13).


text:
Public Service Announcement - Jury Service
Jurors ensure that the voice of the people is always present in our courts.
Launch in external player| Download Quicktime Player
Transcript of Public Service Announcement
Order in the court please. Has the jury reached a verdict?
Trial by a jury of one's peers is fundamental to our democracy. 5 1/2 million Americans serve as jurors each year.
Each day jurors make decisions that affect people's lives, property, and legal rights.
We all hope we'll never need a jury of our peers, but somebody needs one every single day. Jurors ensure that the voice of the people is always present in our courts. Being a juror is the most tangible way for a citizen to participate directly in our democracy.
The New York State Court System reminds you to answer that jury summons and serve with pride.
A message from the New York State Unified Court System. Aired in cooperation with the New York State Broadcasters Association.


text:
For everything relating to Taiwanese, Chinese & Hong Kong drama.
Use this control to limit the display of threads to those newer than the specified time frame.
Allows you to choose the data by which the thread list will be sorted.
Order threads in...
Note: when sorting by date, 'descending order' will show the newest results first.
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text:
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text:
Browse Full Show List »
Top: Maternity Lace Mix Longline T-Shirt by ASOS
Network: E!
Carissa's skirt on E! News Daily Pop:
Renzo Skirt by Tibi at Neiman Marcus, $545
Also available at: Nordstrom
Carissa's twist strap top on E! News Daily Pop:
Twist Knot Top by Helmut Lang at Nordstrom, $345
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Morgan's striped tie front crop top on Live from E!:
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Selma Dress by Cinq a Sept at Nordstrom, $495
Also available at: Shopbop and Saks Fifth Avenue
Erin's pleated hem dress on E! News:
Catriona Dress by Cinq a Sept at Shopbop, $395


text:
Jakob Silfverberg beat Martin Brodeur to his stick side in the shootout and goalie Ben Bishop turned aside 30 shots for his first victory of the season, giving the Ottawa Senators a 2-1 victory over the New Jersey Devils on Monday.
Silfverberg, who also had an assist on the Senators' regulation goal, skated in on Brodeur in the shootout and fired a right-handed wrist shot which caught the NHL's all-time wins leader by surprise. When Bishop stopped former Senator Bobby Butler on the Devils' third shootout attempt, Ottawa (8-6-2) had its third road win of the season.
Stephen Gionta scored his second goal of the season in the opening minutes of the game and Brodeur made 29 saves for New Jersey.
Daniel Alfredsson scored in the third period for Ottawa.


text: Cinco Ranch Homes Photos And Picture Gallery - Homes for Sale Cinco Ranch® Neighborhood Houston Real Estate Katy Real Estate Green Trails Homes for Sale Windsor Park Homes for Sale Nottingham Homes for Sale Parklake Village Homes for Sale Cinco Ranch Homes for Sale Lakes of Katy Homes for Sale Lake Pointe Estates Homes for Sale Woodcreek Reserve Homes for Sale Pin Oak Village Homes for Sale Kelliwood Homes for Sale Firethorne Homes for Sale Seven Meadows Homes for Sale Avalon at Seven Meadows Homes for Sale Grand Lakes Homes for Sale Grayson Lakes Homes for Sale Lakes of Parkway Homes for Sale **NEW** Quick Contact!!! **NEW** (Text me INSTANTLY asking me a question! Fill out form below or TXT 832-692-2979 [T-Mobile]) First & Last Name:(*) Phone Number:(*) Email Address:(*) Comments/Question:(*) Required Fields: (*) Share | Last Updated: 08/22/2018 Cinco Ranch Homes Photos And Picture Gallery Homes for Sale Cinco Ranch® Neighborhood Cinco Ranch for Sale | Cinco Ranch for Rent Fill out this form to Contact Us Today! First Name(*): Last Name(*): Email Address(*): Phone Number(*): Please Send Me Updates: Information about you Looking to: BUY: SELL: INVEST: How Soon? Questions & Comments: Fill out the Mailing Address Below and we will send you a Free Refrigerator Magnet! Street Address: City: Zip Code: State: Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Dist of Columbia Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Required Fields (*)


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University of Wisconsin Stout | Wisconsin's Polytechnic University
Opportunities to Inspire.
Become part of an organization that prepares tomorrow's leaders.
Opportunities to Inspire.
Become part of an organization that prepares tomorrow's leaders.
How to post a Graduate Assistant position
Do I have to post my student job (I already have someone in mind)?
What if I have a current student employee, and I want them to continue working in my office/area when they return in the fall?
How do I go about getting access to post an on-campus job opening?
I'm having trouble logging in… what's going on?
How do I know if my position is work-study or state payroll?
What if I want to post a position that can be either Work-Study or State Payroll, not one or the other?
Do I have to complete all of the blanks on the job post form?
Why is it taking so long for my job post to appear?
I want to hire students for the upcoming term… do I have to wait to post the position?
How long do I have to keep my job posted?
What If I want to extend my job post a little further (or shorten it a bit?)?
What if I want to revise the information on my posting?
What if I want to hire for this same position next semester (next summer, next year, etc.)? Do I have to complete this process all over again?
Jobs continue to remain in your database, even after they've
expired.You can access your current and
expired job posting at any sight on your Career Link Profile page. Click on the
"jobs" tab for a list of your past and present jobs. (your access is limited to jobs you have
Click on the job in question, and the profile view will open on the page.On the upper left of the detail you will see a blue icon labeled "Page Functions", click on the link below labeled "Copy Job". This will allow you to copy all of the jobs information into a new job form.Ensure you update relevant data to make the position current, and submit.
Your job will go through the manual approval process (within 24-48 hours) before it's posted to CareerLink. Contact the Student Employment Coordinator at 715-232-1363 with questions.
Should I post my Graduate Assistant openings on the Student Jobs page?
Employers that indicate their main purpose as posting "Post Grad Assistantships" will access the CareerLink "Employer" tab, but will be directed to complete a posting site unique to that job type.
Questions regarding Employer types and job postings should contact the Career Services office:
715-232-1601 or email@example.com
Where do I direct students for the "Student Job Application?"
1. When Students log-in to CareerLink to review job posts, they have access to the Job Application.
Students will log-in, then access the link labeled "Job Vacancy List", click on "On Campus Student Employment". The Student Employment Application is in red, and gives the student a link to the downloadable form.
2. The Student Jobs site (https://www.uwstout.edu/jobs/studentjobs/index.cfm), under the "Students tab", has lots of helpful information for Stout Students, including a link to the Student Employment Application form.The link to the Application form is available on this page, in BLUE.
3. When all else fails: save the link to your own favorites! Here you go:
What if I'm having some issues with Stout CareerLink… who should I contact?
Stout Careerlink is managed by the Career Services
Office. If you have questions regarding
the site, or are having technical issues with CareerLink, contact that office
at 715-232-1601 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
What if I have questions about on-campus student employment… who should I contact?
Questions regarding Student Employment should be directed to
the Student Employment Coordinator for UW-Stout: Barbara Cloutier.
You can contact her via the Financial Aid Office (715-232-1363) or firstname.lastname@example.com.
Isabel Lexen and Andrew Steidtmann explain the difference between work-study and state payroll student employment at UW-Stout
Isabel Lexen and Andrew Steidtmann talk about the benefits of being a student employee at UW-Stout
Isabel Lexen and Andrew Steidtmann talk about student employment eligibility and how to find student employment opportunities at UW-Stout


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Captain Bob Badgett of the Gilbert Fire Department, whose two children are in their early 20s, spent part of Wednesday this week at Finley Farms Elementary School. He was one of several volunteers who read to 4th graders as part of the town's "Week of Tribute to 9/11." www.gilbertaz.gov/911memorial.
Badgett read a book titled "Fireboat: The Heroic Adventures of the John J. Harvey" by Maira Kalman of Manhattan, who "was born in Tel Aviv and moved to New York with her family at the age of four." She's written and illustrated thirteen children's books — the latest a collaboration with Lemony Snicket titled "13 WORDS." www.mairakalman.com.
"Fireboat" is the true tale of a boat in 1931 New York that's eventually retired for a time — until called back into service in the immediate aftermath of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center. Its crew includes a dog named "Smokey," which makes me feel only slightly better about the fact that I often call the book "Firedog" by mistake. www.fireboat.org.
I first stumbled on "Fireboat" in June, while visiting the 9/11 Memorial Preview Site near Ground Zero in Lower Manhattan — where it was diplayed close to teddy bears wearing NYPD or FDNY shirts and other items honoring 9/11 first responders.
The 9/11 Memorial will open to 9/11 families this Sunday (and others, with online reservations, the following day), but those of us who won't be in NYC can still support the cause by shopping for 9/11-related books and other items online. www.911memorial.org.
I like the idea of keeping these books handy year-round rather than pulling them out only with the advent of 9/11 anniversary dates. My books on Abraham Lincoln weren't put away between President's Day holidays when my children were little, so why treat this historical event any differently?
Be sure you review 9/11-related books before sharing them with your child. "Fireboat" depicts the destruction of the twin towers, which some parents might not feel comfortable with. "Fireboat" is recommended for ages four and up, but you're the best judge of what your own child can handle.
Badgett says the experience of reading "Fireboat" to fourth graders felt especially profound because almost all of them were born the year that 9/11 took place. "They have a deeper understanding of it than I thought," reflects Badgett.
He was also impressed by the questions students asked. Do you remember where you were? Didn't we catch the guy who masterminded this? "I wondered how deep to go with all this," shares Badgett. It sounds like he kept it simple and very matter of fact in tone — as it should be.
It reminded me of the story about a child who asks a mom where babies come from only to get a full-blown anatomy lecture when a simple "we'll bring her home from the hospital" would have done the trick. Still, it's important not to skim over the event as if it never happened or has little significance.
"Kids need real and factual information," observes Badgett. "If they don't get it from us, they get misinformation from other places." Badgett appreciates books like "Fireboat" because they "get kids the information in a non-threatening format."
On the morning of 9/11, Badgett (then a firefighter in Scottsdale) was "off shift" — watching television at home while enjoying his morning coffee. After seeing the second tower get hit, Badgett brought his own children downstairs and told them what had happened. "That day all firefighters were on duty," recalls Badgett.
The newest children's book to explore the events of and after 9/11 is "14 Cows for America," written by Carmen Agra Deedy and illustrated by Thomas Gonzalez. Wilson Kimel Naiyomah collaborated on the book, which is aimed at 6-10 year olds.
It's the true story of a Maasai student in New York who witnessed 9/11 — then shared the experience with villagers after returning home to Kenya. The tragedy inspired them to make a precious gift to America. It was their cows. www.14cowsforamerica.com.
Many children offered gifts of words and art in the weeks and months following 9/11. Some found their way into books like "September 12th: We Knew Everything Would Be All Right," "Do Not Be Sad: A Chronicle of Healing," "What Will You Do For Peace?" and "Messages to Ground Zero: Children Respond to September 11, 2001." Also "Art for Heart" and "The Day Our World Changed."
We like to believe that we read books about 9/11 with our children to help them make sense of the world. In reality, we're the ones still struggling to understand.
— Lynn
Coming up: Talking with kids about 9/11, Review: 14 Cows for America, Broadway remembers 9/11


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Sears, Roebuck & Co. said it is bringing the RoadHandler tire brand back to its Sears Auto Center car-service outlets, The Wall Street Journal reports. The company is touting the tires' durability and 100,000-mile warranty and relatively low prices in an era when tires have become surprisingly expensive.
The name has been off the market for almost a decade, but for many people it brings back memories of the 1970s and 1980s. Back then the brand was prominent and featured in Sears commercials on television and in print along with the store's Muzzler mufflers and DieHard batteries. While such old brands may seem a bit kitschy, they also have name recognition among a wide swath of consumers.
"We brought back RoadHandler tires to give our customers a safe, dependable tire at an excellent value," said Sears Automotive boss Joe Finney. "We are excited to re-introduce the classic RoadHandler brand, exclusive to Sears."
There are more than 775 Sears Auto Center stores in the U.S. and, like many car-maintenance shops, Sears is trying to take advantage of a trend among drivers toward keeping vehicles longer. As cars age beyond their warranty period, owners are more likely to take them to independent mechanics or repair chains with local outlets.
Read more from The Wall Street Journal


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MOAB, Utah Citing liability concerns, state officials have barred an outfitter from using a southern Utah arch for whats billed as the worlds largest rope swing.
The School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration, or SITLA, last month informed Sandy-based Utah High Adventure that it could no longer take paying clients to Corona Arch just west of Moab.
SITLA general counsel John Andrews told The Salt Lake Tribune that while the arch is now closed to commercially guided outdoor activities, it remains open to private parties interested in swinging, climbing and rappelling.
If people want to huck themselves off a cliff or arch thats their business, he said. There is a general principle that owners who hold their land open for recreational use are insulated from liability. We felt there was more risk (exposure to the state penalties) if someone operated under a permit and someone got hurt.
Last year, Corona Arch became the site of the granddaddy of all cheap thrills after climbers set up a rope with a 250-foot pendulum swing through the geological feature. It was made famous by YouTube videos that went viral.
Thrill seekers free fall for 130 feet before the rope becomes taut, swinging them just above the sandstone floor before soaring skyward through the arch. They fly up to 200 feet above the ground, and enjoy six or seven swings before being lowered to the ground.
Its a bummer they closed it, but I can understand where they are coming from, Thad James, owner of Utah High Adventure, told the Tribune. If you dont do it exactly right, you can die.
He said hes concerned amateur jumpers, drawn to the arch because of its newfound notoriety, may put themselves at risk.
Anchors for the ropes must be set just right or jumpers risk swinging into the far leg of the arch or back into the cliff. And rope lengths need to be calibrated to safely navigate the 140-foot height of the arch.
There were no mishaps during the four months SITLA allowed James company to access the arch. About 100 clients paid $200 each to swing under the arch during that time.


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Japanese Firms Grow Thirsty
Japanese trading houses, long major players in global energy and commodities markets, recently have stepped up acquisitions in the global water business as they seek to tap a growth market with stable cash flow.
They are a bit late to the game and prices already are rising. But they are armed with strong balance sheets and technology that could improve service in emerging markets, and they have the support of the Japanese government.
"They're still in a learning phase," said Yasuhiro Narita, a trading house analyst at Nomura Securities Co. "But if they enter now, they may become major players."
That is exactly what they say they intend to do, and they are backing it up with action.
This month, for example Sumitomo acquired British water-supply company Sutton & East Surrey Water PLC for about $260 million.
Sumitomo says it hopes to expand to other parts of Europe, including Portugal and Spain, as well as the U.S., and later into Southeast Asia.
The attraction for Sumitomo and its competitors is clear. The global water market—ranging from wastewater collection to water supply—is expected to hit $545 billion in 2016, up from $390 billion in 2007, according to a report published in 2010 by Global Water Intelligence, an industry journal.
Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry estimated in a 2010 report that the value of the global water-business market will hit ¥87 trillion ($927 billion) in 2025, up from ¥36 trillion in 2007, with water-supply and sewerage accounting for 85%.
Most of the recent deals have been in developed countries where privatization has opened up the water sector. But Japanese trading houses hope to use the experience gained in Europe, for example, to help them expand into emerging markets, where demand for drinking and industrial water is expected to soar.
Sumitomo isn't alone MarubeniItochu and Mitsui & Co. all say they have big plans involving water.
In addition to seeking growth, many are looking to reduce earnings volatility caused by their heavy reliance on revenue from traditional natural resources.
Marubeni says it intends to become one of the top 10 players in the global water business, especially in emerging markets in Southeast Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa. In December, it said it will acquire a 20% stake in Maynilad Water Services Inc., one of the world's largest private water utilities, which provides water-supply and sewage services in the Philippines.
Also last year, Itochu bought a 20% stake in the U.K.'s Bristol Water for $70 million.
Mitsui & Co., which has water businesses in Mexico, Thailand and China, says it intends to aggressively pursue opportunities in water and sewerage businesses, as well as desalination and wastewater treatment.
The Japanese companies are a few steps behind some of their global competitors, such as water giants Veolia Environnement and Suez Environnement. Other Asian players also have shown interest in European water assets.
Last year, China Investment Corp., a sovereign-wealth fund, bought an 8.7% stake in the U.K.'s Thames Water Utilities Ltd. for an undisclosed price. In 2011, Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka-shing's Cheung Kong Infrastructure Holdings bought U.K.-based Northumbrian Water Group PLC for £2.4 billion ($3.7 billion).
Still, the Japanese come armed with technology—their anti-leak and recycling technologies are especially advanced—and strong balance sheets.
They also frequently have the backing of the Japanese government, which has supported their efforts to export water technology, often as a co-investor.
In 2010, Marubeni acquired Chilean water firm Aguas Nuevas for an undisclosed price, while a consortium led by Mitsubishi bought the Australian unit of Britain's United Utilities Groupfor 176 million Australian dollars ($181 million).
A fund backed by the Japanese government was an investor in both deals.
However, as latecomers to the market, the Japanese trading houses may have missed the chance to grab the lowest-hanging fruit. Industry experts say asset prices are rising as companies pour into the water-infrastructure sector.
Also, the Japanese companies, though they have access to strong water technologies, are handicapped by a relative lack of experience in operating water utilities because Japanese utilities have traditionally been run by local governments.
To compete internationally, "it's going to be important to build up a track record and experience in operating the [water] companies," said Eric Sedlak, a Tokyo-based lawyer at Jones Day.
Mr. Sedlak has handled cross-border resource and infrastructure deals involving Japanese trading houses.


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Indi Jumpsuit
or make 4 interest-free payments of $22.49 AUD fortnightly with More info
Model wears size 8
Clothing varies in measurements due to fabric and style of the garment.
For exact measurements please email us at firstname.lastname@example.com
The office will close 12pm Friday 22nd December for the holiday break and return Tuesday 2nd January. All orders processed between these dates will be posted via express on the 2nd.
We off FREE express shipping on all orders over $100 in Australia
$10 for all orders under $100 in Australia
All orders placed before 2pm EST each business day will be packed and sent the same day. We use Australia Post Express which usually is next business day delivery within the express post network (Australian capital cities & major metro areas).
Western Australia customers please note it may take longer to get express parcels. Please use the Australia Post Postage Calculator to see what network you are in and when you can expect your parcel. http://auspost.com.au/apps/postage-calculator.html
If you do need something urgently, please give us a call and we'll make sure it's top priority!
If you don't receive your items within 5 business days of ordering, please email email@example.com with your full name and order number and we'll track it down for you. A lot of times, it's just sitting at the post office waiting for collection.
We ship internationally!
Please email us at firstname.lastname@example.com and we can quote your shipping cost.
Any other questions please email us at firstname.lastname@example.com store hours are 9am to 4pm EST Monday- Friday, call us on 03 9417 4933
Return & Exchange
Need to return or exchange something? Please e-mail us first at firstname.lastname@example.com to discuss your return. This way we can hold the new sizes/styles.
Please remember that we do NOT accept returns or exchange on any item listed in the SALE section of our website
Please fill in the returns form on the back of your invoice/receipt slip and send it back to us with the item(s) (in their original condition).
Please follow the below steps within 14 days of receiving your order.
1. Next to the products listed on the returns sheet please be as detailed as possible as for your reason of return.
2. You can place a new order if a replacement size, colour or alternative items are required.
3. Any change of mind or incorrect size returns will receive a credit or exchange.
4. Refunds will be given to faulty garments, any other reason for return will be given a credit or exchange.
5. We will except returns subject to the following conditions for items purchased online subject to the following conditions:
- We will not except change of mind returns for any 'SALE' or discounted items, earrings or gift cards.
-Items must be return within 14 days of the purchase date marked on the payment slip, with the packing slip/payment slip included.
- You are responsible for any costs associated with returning the items to us.
- Items must be returned unworn, unwashed and in an otherwise unused condition with all original tags/labels attached.
-Items must be returned in their plastic packet to keep them fresh and clean.
- If you request an exchange, you will receive an email of the exchange order once we receive your parcel. If the new item is of higher value the difference will be on the new invoice. You are liable for the costs of the new item to be shipped.
ALL other questions or comments please email us at firstname.lastname@example.com
Online store hours are 9am to 3pm EST Monday- Friday
Credits Notes
Any change of mind or incorrect sizing returns on full priced product will be offered a credit or exchange for the returned item. Store credit will allow you to purchase a different item online. You have 3 months to use your store credit.
Faulty Items
Every item will be inspected thoroughly before we send it out to any customers to make sure you get high quality garments from us. In case of manufacturing faults, we are happy to replace or refund the item to you. If you think your item has a fault, please email firstname.lastname@example.com
Please e-mail us for if you are unsure about any returns email@example.com
Long jumpsuit with an elasticated waist and hem at bust
Code: 61964


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Some kids pack on extra weight when their tonsils are removed, U.S. researchers conclude in a review of earlier studies.
The possibility that the surgery, performed on more than half a million American children every year, might be contributing to the current obesity epidemic is "alarming," they write in the journal Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery.
"For some patients this surgery might be considered more of a risk than a benefit," said Dr. Anita Jeyakumar, an ear, nose and throat specialist at Saint Louis University in Missouri, who worked on the review.
"Every patient needs to be evaluated as an individual to find out whether the risks outweigh the benefit," she told Reuters Health.
Tonsillectomy, as the procedure is called, is the most common type of major surgery done in kids. Still, with the increasing use of antibiotics to treat the condition, surgeons are doing fewer tonsillectomies than they did 40 years ago.
The procedure is covered by Medicare up to a few hundred dollars. It helps children with breathing trouble that disturbs their sleep, and is a last resort for those who suffer from repeated inflammation of the tonsils, the oval-shaped clumps of tissue at the back of the throat.
Jeyakumar and her colleagues found nine studies that used different methods to look at weight gain after tonsillectomy, with a total of nearly 800 children included.
More than half of the children gained weight, she told Reuters Health. Three of the studies looked at body mass index (BMI), a measure of weight in relation to height, which climbed five to eight percent after the surgery. The others, despite using different weight-scoring methods, showed similar findings, with several kids crossing the line from normal weight to overweight, and from overweight to obese.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 17 percent of American youths are obese, putting them at higher risk for heart disease, stroke and other disease later in life.
Exactly why this is happening isn't clear, although it may be that kids whose tonsils are often inflamed simply eat less than others, and tonsillectomy makes them eat like other kids again.
There are alternatives to tonsillectomy, including antibiotics for tonsillitis and ventilation devices for breathing trouble. But Jeyakumar said the latter usually don't work very well for kids.
Families of kids who already have weight problems may want to think twice about tonsillectomy, she said. And obese kids should consider starting a weight-loss program before surgery to head-off further weight gain afterward.
"It should be part of the discussion with the child and the parents," she said.


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She was already making rumbles in the acting world with her tough-as-nails performance in "Winter's Bone," landing her an actress Oscar nom, but it was Lawrence's star-turning role in global blockbuster "The Hunger Games," as heroine Katniss Everdeen, that has turned the actress into a household name, and one much in demand. She also was recently onscreen at Toronto in buzz pic "The Silver Linings Playbook," from David O. Russell.
What we should know: "Moviemaking is really fun, even when the crew is different on any movie, it's always the same kind — nice, fun and accepting. There's a certain personality that comes with making movies, you have to not take life too seriously cause at the end of the day you're just making movies, and having a great time."
Word of wisdom: "Try it (acting) for a few years and if it doesn't work out try something else. It's one of those things that always sounds so nice, just keep going and one of these days your dreams will come true, but it's a fickle industry and its completely random and unpredictable, it's not like being a lawyer where you take a test and then you get to become one."
Typical work week: "12-13 hour days; 60 hours a week"
Life-work balance: "I always have friends coming in and out of town. And when you have time off, just completely let go of everything. I hang out with the people I always do, outside of my work life nothing changes. If you have a good group then if the people around you don't change, hopefully you won't change."
Charitable passions: "I've got a charity at home that I love called Bellewood. It's a home for (foster care) children in Kentucky, and my family opens up our farms for the kids in the summer. It's a school, but they also teach them how to garden and different skills — it's a fun place."


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Girls basketball: Lady 'Stangs, Plowgirls are still unbeaten
Two Nolan County varsi-ty girls basketball teams are off to 3-0 starts after winning again on Tuesday, as Sweetwater held off Wichita Falls Hirschi 40-32 on the road and Roscoe pulled away in the second half to defeat Robert Lee 30-19 at Roscoe's gym.Also, Highland (2-1) defeated Aspermont 56-44 while Blackwell (0-1) lost to Hermleigh 65-43 in its sea-son opener on Tuesday.Sweetwater trailed Hir-schi 9-8 after one quarter, but led 20-12 at halftime and was up by 10, 29-19, at the end of three periods.Kendra Crosson paced Sweetwater with 15 points and Suede Shirley finished with 12, with two 3-pointers. Also scoring for Sweet-water were Shelby Cason with eight and Kelsi Cros-son with five.Roscoe also heated up against Robert Lee after a slow start. The Plowgirls led just 6-5 after one quarter and 13-11 at halftime, but were up by eight (21-13) af-ter outscoring Robert Lee 8-2 in the third quarter en route to their victory.Carolina Perez was Ros-coe's only double figure scorer with 11 points. Eva Aguayo had five, Faith Bor-en and Stina Tomlin four and Kendall Moses, Mirian Solis and Torrey Willman two apiece. Roscoe also won the JV girls game by defea-ting Robert Lee 36-13.Highland, meanwhile, won for the second straight time after losing its opener to Sweetwater. The Lady Hornets jumped out to a 14-7 lead over Aspermont at the end of the first quarter, and led 28-20 at halftime and 43-32 heading into the fourth quarter. Sierra Allen paced High-land with 21 points while Beth Richburg had 13, Hannah Allen eight, Sydney Helbert, Madison Moseley and Lora Stewart four and Schyler Kimbrell two. The JV girls (0-3) lost to Aspermont 28-17.Blackwell got 17 points from Stephanie Metcalf, 10 from Hailey Bennett, seven from Elizabeth Rozzlle, four from Bailey McGlothlin, three from Leonor Castelo and two points from Bethany Breaux in its opener.


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Re: Reservation Etiquettesophie Apr 18, 2012 6:56 PM (in response to amyvrbo)
Wow! I am shocked that you tried a leave a bad review and I am very glad that vrbo has put in place requirements that renters MUST have stayed in the property before leaving a review.
In no way do I think that her actions were unprofessional.. She got someone else that was interested, they paid the money and she booked them. She hadn't even sent you a quote yet and unless you gave her a deposit and signed contract she was under no obligation to you whatsoever to hold the property. It was nice of her to even tell you she had booked someone else.
My policy is the first who pays is the first one who gets the property.
Re: Reservation Etiquetteamyvrbo Apr 18, 2012 7:25 PM (in response to sophie)
Yes - I now have a new understanding of the kind of reviews I am getting as a consumer when looking at VRBO. It is really disconcerning to me that VRBO would not include honest feedback from their users. Makes me wonder what other reviews have been denied in VRBOs best interest.
And thank you for letting me know that there are other owners at VRBO that threat their customers as poorly as my encounter today. In the future I will be much more leary of working directly with owners when renting property. I now see there is a value in working only with properties have PROFESSIONAL property managers handling their affairs.
Thank you for the information and in turn - advise as I asked.
Re: Reservation Etiquettekiawahcottage Apr 18, 2012 7:19 PM (in response to amyvrbo)
Sorry about your experience and can't help you with a Minneapolis rental but here is my take on this.
It would seem very likley she was already negotiating with another party when you started trying to contact her. That is probably why she was avoiding responding to you. After she did repond to you the other party came through and she had to abrogate your inquiry.
Occasionaly owners find themselves fielding multiple inquiries for the same dates. Believe me, it's as stressfull to us as it is for you.
As to you reviewing a property you never stayed at, apparently HA / VRBO does not allow that, it has nothing to do with the owner.
Good luck with your search.
Re: Reservation Etiquetteamyvrbo Apr 18, 2012 7:34 PM (in response to kiawahcottage)
Thanks Paul.
Had she given me any indication that she had other inquiries on the hook for this property on the phone, I would have happily put a deposit down immediately. Rather she told me that she needed to send me the quote information via email and that I should respond that way. My own dumb mistake for not pushing to get every last detail settled when I had her on the phone, but again, I have never had an owner drop the ball like this. I just really hate complete disregard for the customer. I posted this message as a way of 1) venting because I was really mad and 2) maybe someone else could try to step up their own game when it comes to customer service.
Anyway, thanks again for the advise.
Re: Reservation Etiquettewiffle May 1, 2012 12:07 AM (in response to amyvrbo)
You can feel free to get "every last detail settled while on the phone" but until the payment is made, that is worth nothing.
I did a little google search, and the original post is still available in the cache. Looks like there are two rentals in the location where amyvrbo wanted to rent, and the one she is complaining about costs about 25% of the other (but is also bigger, although sleeps about the same). Maybe that is why amyvrbo is so bent out of shape. She wants the cheap place, in spite of no photos or reviews.
This owner probably gets a ton of inquiries, given that there are so few listings and this one is cheaper.
There is always the possibility that the owner did a little internet research and chose someone else. Maybe the owner looks at Facebook pages of renters, who knows?
Re: Reservation Etiquettewhosails Oct 6, 2012 9:11 AM (in response to amyvrbo)
I don't even send a contract unless someone requests it. Can't take a deposit without a signed contract.
Re: Reservation Etiquettemariannelovesmaui Apr 18, 2012 8:33 PM (in response to amyvrbo)
I ran across this area by accident and was amazed about this. I am both an vacation rental owner and a 'traveler' through VRBO and I have to say that unless you have provided your required payment to an owner (much more personal and personally felt like 'just a number' as I have experienced with property managers ~ no personal touch but that is just me) ~ you never should assume that your dates are 'secured'!! Vacation rental owners are receiveing multuple inquiries daily and I have 'respectfully declined' many inquiring guests after talking to them as it is PROPERTY OWNER'S CHOICE to pick and choose their guests... There is ALWAYS two sides to every story and the fact that this lady seemed to not even let a few hours go by and she was on here tip tapping her fingers away to try and give this hard working property owner, that is willing to share her property with others in which is a labor of love, a bad reputation in which could affect her livelihood is so very disturbing. I am so proud of VRBO for not allowing her to write a bad review since she did not stay in the property but she still searched for another place to bad mouth this owner. It makes me wonder if there is not more to this. C'mon people ~ can't we all just get along.. There are soooooo many other properties on here with many other owners that would be happy to take your money and have you as their guest. I understand if something traumatic happened here but it is a lady that did not take a few moments to 'relax' about the situation and jumped on here and bad mouth someone else. I am embarrassed for even taking the time to write this but I really felt bad for this owner as she is a new owner, or so it seems by the published dates on here, and this is the way she starts off by a negative thing that would not happen very often. (OR it may with some really busy owners with multiple properties as I know many other owners that are so busy plus then you seem too pushy and the renter may think that you are being too pushy and trying to get them to pay.) Always two sides to every story and property is not yours until required payment is made and secured~ plain and simple. Play NICE ~ Life is too short to fret over the little things.
Re: Reservation Etiquettenightskyveiw Apr 18, 2012 9:19 PM (in response to amyvrbo)
Amy, On behalf of all VR owners I must apologize for your bad experience.The good news is that this does not happen often. In defense of the owner its simply a rookie mistake. In the listing it states that the photos will be posted when the rental is ready. I did not see any photos, so this rental is not ready. What happen when you made contact is that they had to check with someone else as to when the property would be ready, when the manager spoke to the owner or owner spoke to the contractor they were most likely told that the place would not be ready by the dates you requested. Instead of being honest with you and telling you they were not ready, they came up with the story about another booking. Are they in their rights to take another booking had that occured? Sure they are. But most will contact you first. I myself would have let you know I have someone else ready to book but you have first crack if you want it. On the other end I would tell the potential booker that I have you interested and I will give you a courtesy call and get right back to them. This has worked out good and bad for me but It's just normal customer service as far as I am concerned. When you look at the rental you will see that all of July and half of June are booked. Those are whats known in the VR world as phantom bookings. So in the end its just growing pains. In the future this rental may very well be a quality vacation rental. At least they did not try to book you before they were ready because that would be far worse.
Re: Reservation Etiquetteanja Apr 19, 2012 4:24 AM (in response to nightskyveiw)
Personally, I would hesistate apologizing on behalf of ALL owners. I'm an Owner. It was too bad it happened, but I do not agree with this OP. I do not agree with this OP's behaviour on an open forum.
MODERATOR: why is this permitted to be posted with the Owner's Property # visible?
The Owner has the right to decide whom to rent to...and why...without being harrassed.
I consider this OP as a rant which is intentionally slanderous; it includes the VRBO Property #. Why do this if not to hurt this Owner!
So, now, I'm asking myself - who is the one with the "poor etiquette"?
This incident would qualify as a "Terrible Encounter" if the Owner had *committed* to the OP and then dropped her for a "better deal".
This OP had a phone conversation with the Owner expressing interest. Whether the OP had to call several times and email several times is not even relevant! The Owner was not immediately available.... perhaps very busy...might have a job...probably not seeing every inquiry as they come in. The Owner could even have been away for a day or more. Private property Owners spread themselves thin, and do the best they can with limited resources.
So, the Owner did not send an offer with a quote, yet. Not before the Owner looked into (at least) one other inquiry. So, there was no agreement on the price, no decided method of payment or the forwarding of a contract.
Therefore, no *commitment*, yet.
The Owner had two {at least} competing inquiries within a couple of hours. The fact that the Owner responded to another inquiry before following up with the first inquiry indicates to me that the Owner was more interested in the second one...and there are reasons for that decision -- reasons that we do not know, nor is it our or anyone else's business to know. It's the Owner's business! The Owner *chose* the other rental opportunity because ...whatever!
By not hearing directly from the Owner, we can only make assumptions.
But, instead, the OP harshly judges, condems and the punishment is to slander in public. Awful. Worse than what "happened to the OP"! The OP has the chance to rent any other property! And, now the Owner is being victimized by this person who is knows nothing about the Owner's --- who is another woman--- situation, challenges, personal hardships, other commitments, obligations...etc.. But, OP has a quick draw, aims and fires! And, we only have one side of the story, here.
When an Owner sometimes has a "good day" with multiple inquiries for a time frame, then it's their perogative to rent to whom they wish...and we Owners have specific reasons -- sometimes dire reasons -- to go with one renter over another. Again, it's business...it's not personal. {Actually, sometimes it is personal but that's a different topic deserving of its own thread}.
The Owner could have been presented with a longer stay opportunity, which would equal a better income. {Renovations are expensive and it seems that this property is under extensive reno}. The Owner went with the best match for her --- the best deal for both parties. Owners *choose* according to criteria.
We only know that this property is in extensive "renovation" ...according to the VRBO Listing information....there are not even photos of the place online --- so the OP didn't even know what she would have been renting, it appears. Maybe not relevant here. But, honestly....this is an over reaction --- with revengful attempt to hurt the Owner.
Should the Owner have phoned the OP to tell her the place was no longer available? Yes --- but she probably was going to...or perhaps she was going to send an email. We have no idea of what the Owner had to do...at the time...and how many other people the Owner had to attend to, hat day. Perhaps she had ongoing other business to do first. Self-managing Owners wear many hats...and are often pulled in different directions. I know that I am. Perhaps she had been called away for some other reason....perhaps....perhaps. We do not know. But, this does not warrent a public flogging. This does not warrant warnings to other interested people. This does not warrent ruining a person's potential future business.
The reason the OP did not get the booking was, most likely, not because the Owner was negligent, rude, uncaring or unprofessional. The Owner was having a busy day! The Owner was deciding whom to rent to! The Owner was within her right to do so, and should do so.
Hanging her out in public for this is not acceptable.
I had one inquiry yesterday...and sent details out...didn't hear back, quickly. Today, I had 2 more inquiries for the same time frame that I have open in May -- so three people asking for the same time period {not the same exact dates...but within the same time period}. One of these I really was warm for...a longer stay! It's about income! It's not personal...it's business! I then spoke to the two new ones today. I managed to send one other *offer* out tailoring to the person's needs--- and before I could even get the third *offer* tailored and sent, my phone rang with a verbal *agreement* from the second person. BUT...STILL, there was no "confirmation of reservation"...there is no *confirmation* until a deposit is received. This means an Owner:
- May continue to keep the calendar *open* and continue to speak to other inquirers --- until receipt of deposit / contract.
- More competing inquirers could still challenge to get the time frame.
I *chose* to book with one of them today --- and it was the one for a longer stay that I wanted {needed}...and she was also the best "fit" for my accommodations {size of party + reason for the visit to my area was very agreeable to my rental criteria}.
So, here's the thing: Owners *choose* who to rent to for a number of reasons, and if we have more than one competing for the same time frame --- we're lucky...we can "choose".
Today, the one who lost out on my opportunity was disappointed. But, she took it like "a real Woman"! No outburst. No attack on me. No insults. No threats to ruin my relations with future inquirers. She's already expressed an interest for a quote for a week in September --- which I will be happy to help her with.
I consider this post a shameful rant by supposedly a "fellow Owner" --- designed to harm another Owner. This was not such a serious offense. It does not warrent writing a "bad review"...or "destroying her reputation". I'm not ready to judge and condemn the Owner....we haven't both sides. But, I can see that this OP's behaviour on this forum is wrong behaviour. .
Re: Reservation Etiquettemarilyn Apr 30, 2012 12:52 PM (in response to anja)
I aggree 150%. Please do not speak on behalf of all VR owners. I would have done the same thing. No money, no reservation.
I recently had a similar occurance . I must answer 4-6 inquies a day, and that is in the slow season. My season is short, Memorial Day thru Labor Day and many people inquire about the same dates. I tell all inquiries that:
1. I answer many inquiries per day
2. rentals are not confirmed until I receive a deposit
3. Fell free to ask all the questions you wish
4. BUT, keep in mind that why you are deciding, another might get the house.
Yes, I have many disappointed people who inquire and feel they have all the time in the world to confirm. Some ask me to call them before we book with someone else. My time is extremely limited, mom with daughter in college, running three companies and handling my 7 vacation rental homes "on the side". I certainly do not have the time to be calling one inquiry to tell them about another. As a newbie I did this. Many inquirers didn't even return my calls.
You speak about customer service. What about all the people who inquire, ask questions for two weeks and then say they have had a change of plans? What about all the people who do research as four other members of the same family all with different last names do the research as well? So now I, the owner answered the same questions four times.
For every disappointed inquirer, I am sure there are just as many home owners who do lots of customer service work and are disappointed by not getting th rental.
Re: Reservation Etiquettesusaninrehoboth May 1, 2012 4:59 AM (in response to amyvrbo)
Considering how you over reacted by trying to write a bad review & posting the information you did, perhaps the owner sensed something in your tone Owners do have lives outside of their vacation rental.You seem like someone I would not want to rent to.
VRBO moderators should, at the very least, remove the listing #.
Re: Reservation Etiquettewiffle Apr 26, 2012 12:35 PM (in response to amyvrbo)
Wow, I didn't see the original post before the OP took it down, but the replies are enough to tell the gist of the story.
I always find it interesting when someone writes a post/starts a smear campaign, and when the conversation doesn't go their way, they delete it. That seems a tad immature.
You say you were venting because you were really mad. Looks like it was a tantrum. Please think about what you are doing before you type it and post it on the internet. I don't think you influenced any owners to "step up their own game when it comes to customer service". You probably caused a few owners to think "gosh, I hope amyvrbo doesn't ever try to rent from me!"
You weren't even harmed, and you went off the deep end. Just move on, find someone who communicates in a way that makes you more comfortable.
Not sure why you were so intent on renting a home that was not ready yet. Was it new to the market and had no photos or reviews? Was the price way lower than others in the area? Were there no other places available? Photos and reviews are really important to me when I am picking a place.
To address some other points:
"Nightskyveiw", it isn't really possible to apologize on behalf of others. Also, why do you assume in the "VR world" that the owner has "phantom bookings"? My first rental was for five weeks. Not sure where that insider knowledge comes from.
Amyvrbo, it is simply not a deal until the rental agreement and payment has changed hands. I really hesitate to tell people if I have multiple inquiries for the same time period. I've learned that too many "done deals" are all talk and no action, and I don't like to sound like I am rushing someone to make their decision. I will, however, let a second or third inquirer know if I have actually extended an agreement and am awaiting payment (three days hold) and I will start a "waiting list" in case the agreement/payment doesn't show up in time.
To address a couple of lines from your post:
"I just really hate complete disregard for the customer. I posted this message as a way of 1) venting because I was really mad and 2) maybe someone else could try to step up their own game when it comes to customer service."
I suppose you could call what we do "customer service" but you aren't buying a blouse from a smiling sales pro at Nordstrom. You are trying to rent a house from an individual. You might not be selected when there are multiple inquiries for your dates. Some owners (and renters) are better than others at organization, communication, and the art of saying "no". Some owners (and renters) don't have the best logic skills. That's why it's best to move on., find someone who gives the "customer service" you expect.


text:
Super Tax the Super PACs
The rich and powerful just got more powerful--and most likely richer.
While all eyes have been focused on the Supreme Court's healthcare ruling, the Court quietly released a decision last Monday that could impact even more Americans.
The Supreme Court had a chance with this new case to reverse its infamous 2010 Citizens United decision. By way of brief background, the Citizens United ruling, together with the federal appeals court decision in Speechnow.org vs. FEC, gave birth to the monstrosity known as Super PACs--independent political action committees which advocate for or against a specific candidate. And worse yet, these rulings ended restrictions Congress had imposed on the amount of money corporations, unions and wealthy individuals could contribute to these "independent" political committees.
But instead, the Supreme Court decided to increase the flow and influence of corporate money in our political system by striking down Montana's Corrupt Practices Act, a law which had been enacted in 1912 to end the corruption caused by the "copper kings"--the big mining companies--which had been essentially buying politicians with large donations and bribes. This Montana law had banned corporate donations to political organizations for 100 years until the Court struck it down and declared that States--in addition to the US Congress--could not enact legislation barring corporations from contributing to Super PACs.
Who could oppose guarding our political system from potential corruption and increase corporate influence over our political system? Well, at least the five Justices who voted to strike the Montana law down. (Anyone surprised that these five Justices were all appointed by Republican Presidents?)
There are currently 640 Super PACs and, in 2012 alone, these groups have already raised over $240 million. In this year's election cycle, millions of dollars are being thrown around like a drunk stock broker in a high-end strip club "making it rain" by tossing fifty dollar bills at strippers.
Lets be honest: How can a politician supported by millions from a wealthy individual or corporation ever say "no" when asked by them to vote a certain way or take a position on an issue? If you say they can't, then you're among the 77% of Americans who believe politicians will stand with the big money contributors over the public interest.
Where is this heading? Can you say: "Citizens-gate"? (Okay, I'm not sure of what we will actually call the scandal, but I'm pretty sure the suffix will be "gate.") Our politicians are dangerously in peril of returning the dark days when they were up for sale to big money donors like the crooked "Nucky Thompson" in HBO's "Boardwalk Empire."
And this development has not gone unnoticed by American voters. A recent poll found that 70% of Americans believe that the current Super PAC system will lead to corruption. And just last week, Senator John McCain echoed this gloomy prognosis when speaking of the Citizens United decision: "I think there will be scandals as associated with the worst decision of the Supreme Court in the 21st century."
What's astounding to me is that opposition to Super PACs is one of the few things that unite people from both political parties. Indeed, a recent Washington Post-ABC News poll found that 69% of Americans want Super PACs to be illegal.
The rise of Super PACs is also resulting in a very alarming consequence: polls indicate that 65% of Americans now trust the government less because big donors have more influence than the average voter. And worse, 26% percent of Americans now say they are less likely to vote because of Super PACs. That number will undoubtedly increase as more Americans feel that that our political system is being controlled by the wealthy and big corporations.
The stakes are clear: the Super PACs are a threat to our democracy. I'd say a "clear and present" danger but I don't want to be overly melodramatic--but it's truly close to that. The pitfalls of the current Super PAC system are clear: Increased chances for corruption, undermining confidence in our political system and Americans checking out of the process because they feel the system is unfairly rigged in favor of the wealthy and big corporations.
The question is what can be done? We have few options:
1. Amend the US Constitution to impose limits on these types of contributions. This could work but would take years;
2. Stop paying the Supreme Court Justices until they reverse their decision. Okay, I'm kidding with this one but I bet it would have an impact; or
3. The most immediate and practical solution is Congress imposing a tax on the Super PACs. And not just any tax, but a Super tax. (There would no doubt be a court challenge to this tax, but as we observed this past week with the healthcare ruling, the Supreme Court is very deferential to Congress' power to impose taxes.)
Did you know that Super PACs don't pay taxes on the contributions they receive? Unbelievable, isn't? These Super PACS are no doubt businesses but the contributions are not taxable because they are considered "gifts" under federal tax law. C'mon, a gift is a bouquet of flowers or a tie, not $2 million with the hope of changing public policy to help your corporation or personal investments.
The contributions to Super PACS should be deemed income. The money is given for a service, namely that the Super PAC will use the funds to lobby the American people on behalf of the donor. And for contributions over the current limit an individual can contribute to a federal political candidate – $2,500 – I propose a fifty percent flat tax be imposed which doesn't allow deductions.
The funds raised from this "super tax" can be used to reduce the deficit or to increase the amount presidential candidates are offered for public financing.
At some point there will again be limits imposed on contributions by wealthy individuals and corporations–-the question is do we first need another "Watergate" type scandal to make that happen?


text:
Q. A conductor passing through a box unbroken counts as one conductor, so if I loop a conductor through the box unbroken and strip off enough insulation to terminate on a receptacle without cutting the wire, does the conductor count as one or two conductors for box sizing?
A. It counts as two conductors. Each conductor that runs through a box and does not have 6 inches of free conductor for splices or terminations in accordance 300.14, and each conductor that terminates in a box is counted as a single conductor volume in accordance with Table 310.16(B). If the conductor includes a loop long enough to terminate on a device legally (at least 12 inches), it must be counted as two conductors [314.16(B)(1)]. According to 300.14, at least 6 inches of free conductor, measured from the point in the box where the conductors enter the enclosure, must be left at each outlet, junction, and switch point for splices or terminations of luminaires or devices.