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Staff Performance Management Policy
The University is committed to building and maintaining a highly committed, productive, and customer-focused workforce to support its mission. All staff are expected to model the University's Catholic, Jesuit values of competency, compassion, community, conscience and commitment by interacting with others in the spirit of collegiality, cooperation, and respect. Supervisors are responsible for training, assisting, motivating, directing and correcting behavior and performance of staff, including communication of management's expectations. Where problems with employee behavior and performance arise, a supervisor should seek to correct the problem with the least amount of disruption to the work environment, and in a confidential manner. At all times personnel actions must be administered in a fair, equitable, and consistent manner without regard to race, sex, age, sexual orientation, handicapping condition, religion, or national origin. Inconsistent treatment of employees for similar infractions may lead to low morale among employees and potential liabilities arising out of staff grievances and discrimination claims.
This policy establishes guidelines for addressing both performance and behavior issues in the workplace.
This policy applies to all regular full-time and part-time staff employees who have successfully completed their orientation period, with the exception of employees in a collective bargaining unit or employees of the Madrid campus.
Documentation: Adequate documentation may include, but is not limited to, an authorized PIM form, written memoranda, email or other written documentation that substantially meets the requirements of 7.2 and supports the level of disciplinary action.
Supervisors are responsible for informing employees of expectations regarding satisfactory conduct and performance as issues arise and during the annual performance evaluation process. Supervisors should generally use progressive discipline to correct performance management problems and inform the employee of future consequences if expectations are not met. Progressive discipline may include written warning, suspension, and/or ultimately discharge. The University may discharge an employee for any reason and at any time it determines that progressive discipline would not be appropriate or effective. Employees may also be accountable for behavior outside of work if it has an impact on their ability to perform their job responsibilities or the potential to adversely impact the University's operations and reputation. Documentation is necessary to support performance management related actions. Supervisors who cannot provide documentation may be directed to defer imposing the proposed performance management action. Contact Human Resources staff for guidelines on documenting disciplinary actions.
Supervisors are responsible for effectively communicating conduct and performance expectations and administering the staff performance management policy. Human Resources is responsible for advising supervisors regarding performance management issues including assessment of progressive discipline in individual cases and interpreting applicable University policies.
Typically, a Performance Improvement Memorandum is issued and discussed with the employee in private conference with the supervisor. A copy of the memorandum should be given to the employee and a copy placed in the employee's official personnel record in Human Resources. Progressive discipline that notifies the employee that further performance management issues may result in discharge is commonly referred to as a final warning. An employee who receives a second Performance Improvement Memorandum within a twelve (12) month period or an overall performance evaluation of "Does Not Meet Expectations" will be deemed to be on a final warning, unless the magnitude of the behavior or the performance issues support discharge. Supervisors may seek assistance from Human Resources prior to giving an employee a written warning. Human Resources must approve any final warning before it is issued.
Staff members who have successfully completed their orientation period and who feel that a Performance Improvement Memorandum was not consistent with University or departmental policy or practice have the right to appeal the action through the University's Grievance Policy. Employment actions involving a suspension or discharge can be appealed through the University's Staff Peer Review Policy. Staff members discharged during the orientation period are not eligible to use these appeals processes. However, any staff member who believes that a disciplinary action was the result of unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation, may contact the University's director of diversity and affirmative action and file a complaint under the University's Equal Employment Opportunities Policy, even if the staff member is in their orientation period. The dispute resolution process is not available if the staff member chooses to resign, even if the resignation is in lieu of a discharge.
Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Policy
This policy was reviewed by the Executive Staff, the President's Coordinating Council, and the Staff Advisory Committee Executive Board
This policy was approved by:
Lawrence Biondi, S.J.


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Here's all you need to know about Chad Knaus as the crew chief closes in on his sixth championship with Jimmie Johnson: When asked about how dominating the pair has been since they partnered in 2002, the relentless Knaus replied: "We lose a heck of a lot more races than we win."
True, Johnson has lost 365 races since his rookie season.
But he's won 64 with Knaus atop his pit box, and the crew chief prepared the cars for his other two Sprint Cup victories. Knaus was suspended by NASCAR for the first four races of 2006, when Johnson opened the year with wins in the Daytona 500 and at Las Vegas.
It was a rough start to the year for the duo after team owner Rick Hendrick had nearly split them during the offseason. They'd come up short once again in their bid for a championship, were fed up with each other, and the owner famously made them sit down over milk and cookies to hash out their differences.
Once Knaus returned from suspension in 2006, they never looked back and reeled off five straight titles.
Now, after watching other drivers hoist the Sprint Cup trophy the last two years, they are poised to reclaim their spot on top of the sport Sunday at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Johnson goes into the finale with a 28-point lead over Matt Kenseth and needs to finish 23rd or better to win the title.
Knaus acknowledged this week that their success has not been as easy as it has looked.
"Jimmie and I have been together for a long time, obviously. Any relationship needs work," he said. "We've had some really good times, we've had some really stressful times together. We've had some really successful times. We've had a lot of victories and a lot of faults. Everybody thinks that we dominate and so on and so forth and that's what everybody writes about and the fans talk about, but man, we lose a lot of races, and that's taxing on anybody.
"As we're trying to do better weekly and improve weekly, it's always a challenge. The good thing we've got is that I've got 100 percent confidence in Jimmie and I feel like he has the same for me, and we know that at the end of the day, all we're trying to do is to make each other better with any of our constructive criticism, any of our feedback or any of our suggestions. It's a really nice environment to work in when you know that your driver has your back 100 percent."
It's hard for Johnson not to have complete faith in Knaus, who has dedicated the last 11 years to the No. 48 team.
Johnson, a father of two, has taken to 5:30 a.m. workouts. Asked if he's ever able to join Johnson, Knaus scoffed.
"Man, I'm coming to work at 5:30 in the morning. He gets to go train," Knaus said. "We have completely different schedules. If I had the ability to go train at 5:30 and come in at 8:00 or whatever, I would maybe do that. But unfortunately that's not how it works for me. I have to come in and go to work."
That's the martyr in Knaus, because he wouldn't have it any other way.
He's a perfectionist to his core, and he expects the same from those around him. So when Kenseth's crew botched a pit stop last week at Phoenix in a race that likely took Kenseth out of the title race, crew chief Jason Ratcliff was back-slapping his guys and trying to keep them motivated for the remainder of the day.
Had that been Knaus' crew, he more than likely would have swapped them out on the spot for another Hendrick Motorsports' crew and potentially permanently replaced the offending employees.
Knaus may go down as the best crew chief in NASCAR history. Deep down, he probably strives for that unofficial title. For now, he won't even cop to being the best in the series.
"Well, I don't think I'm the best crew chief in the garage," he said. "I think I've got the best team, I've got the best driver and the best resources. I think that keeping those pieces together is a bit of a challenge and difficult, and that's one thing I've been very fortunate enough to be able to do. We've had a lot of changes with engineers and mechanics and pit crew members and we can still run up there, but I feel like that as a whole, what I'm trying to improve on isn't really the crew chief thing, it's the personal issues, how to communicate, how to continue to improve the respect with the people that work with you and your group and how to communicate properly, how to gain the respect on a consistent basis with everybody that you're involved with."
NOTHING TO SEE HERE: With a month to go in the season, Kevin Harvick very easily could have derailed his championship chances with an outburst directed at team owner Richard Childress' grandsons.
Upset that he'd been spun by Ty Dillon in a Truck Series race at Martinsville, Harvick had pointed words for Dillon and older brother, Austin, after the incident. He blamed the emergence of the Dillons for his impending departure from Richard Childress Racing, and Childress was livid over the accusations.
Fans speculated Childress would kick Harvick out of the car immediately and write off the remaining four Sprint Cup races.
Instead, Harvick publicly apologized, the No. 29 team hunkered down and goes into Sunday's finale with a mathematical shot at winning the title. Harvick is 34 points behind leader Jimmie Johnson following his victory Sunday at Phoenix.
"This deal is tough enough like it is, and obviously you don't want things like that to happen, but it did," Harvick crew chief Gil Martin said of the Martinsville incident. "I felt like after several phone conversations that we could get right back on track. I never had the doubt about the focus of the team or Kevin once the race started. After the race was over, I felt pretty confident that we were right back on track."
Harvick's final race with RCR is Sunday at Homestead. He grew emotional at Phoenix sitting between Martin and Childress reflecting on his time with the organization and driving for a no-nonsense owner.
"I think he'd probably sit here and tell you that we've been good for each other because we challenge each other," Harvick said. "You know, I obviously handle a lot of situations wrong, but it pushes a lot of buttons to try to make things better. There's no better way to go out than to do what we've done this year. Obviously we went to Martinsville, and I said things that I shouldn't have said and put everybody in a position that was not good, but I think we had conversations about things after that that probably made us closer as people, and I think as we move forward will probably make us closer as friends."
Harvick will drive for Stewart-Haas Racing next season.
VIDEO VETTEL: Four-time Formula One champion Sebastian Vettel says he enjoys video games, but doesn't see them replacing traditional driver training as a pipeline to professional racing.
Vettel said during a visit to Nissan Motor Co.'s North American headquarters outside Nashville, Tenn., on Wednesday that he considers the skills learned on track at an early age to be crucial to developing the key skill for drivers: figuring out how to go faster. The driver's comments may be at odds with the Japanese automaker's Nissan GT Academy, a worldwide competition among hundreds of thousands of PlayStation gamers to be selected to become professional drivers.
After meeting with Nissan workers, Vettel gave some of them high-speed rides around a makeshift track in a new Infiniti Q50 sedan.
Associated Press Writer Erik Schelzig in Franklin, Tenn., contributed to this report.

subset: commoncrawl


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Please select the Campus and the date you would like to attend in the form below. Only one campus tour can be selected for each submission. If you would like to attend multiple tours, please complete the form and submit again.
Plenty Campus, 730 Bridge Inn Road, Mernda: Prep to Year 12
The Ridgeway Campus, The Ridgeway, Ivanhoe: Years 7 to 12
Buckley House, The Ridgeway, Ivanhoe: Early Learning to Year 6


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Transcript of The Body's Live Chat on HIV Treatment Side Effects With Dr. Joel Gallant
October 17, 2007
Following is the transcript of The Body's live chat on HIV treatment side effects, which took place on Oct. 17, 2007, at 4 p.m. Eastern Time. The chat was sponsored by Gilead Sciences, Inc., moderated by The Body's editorial staff and hosted by Dr. Joel Gallant. This transcript has been edited for grammar and clarity.
This is the tenth chat that The Body has moderated; to see transcripts of previous chats, click here.
Moderator: Thank you all for coming to TheBody.com's live, interactive chat on HIV treatment side effects!
A quick note before we get started: Please keep in mind that the information we provide in this chat is not meant to replace the attention or advice of a doctor or another health care professional. Make sure you consult with a qualified health care professional before making any dietary, drug, exercise or other lifestyle change!
OK, we're ready to begin! I'd like to introduce everybody to Dr. Joel Gallant, a professor of medicine and epidemiology in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, and an associate professor of epidemiology at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
One of the most widely respected HIV physicians anywhere, Dr. Gallant is an active researcher and co-author of the seminal book Medical Management of HIV Infection, a guide for HIV health care professionals. We're honored to have him join us as today's chat speaker. Dr. Gallant, welcome!
Dr. Joel Gallant: Thanks! It's great to be back in the chat room.
Moderator: Alright, let's get this show on the road. Feel free to submit any questions you have for Dr. Gallant. Keep in mind that the topic of this hour-long chat is HIV medication side effects.
Question from anonymous: Having followed all the research, it seems to me that there is knowledge about how to stop the body changes that people with HIV on HAART [highly active antiretroviral therapy] experience. Aside from stopping d4T [generic name: stavudine; brand name: Zerit], what is known about the disfiguration that HIV meds can cause? I have thinning legs and a big waist, and although I switched four years ago, nothing has changed. NOTHING! -- Ken
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: Ken, both d4T and AZT [generic name: zidovudine; brand name: Retrovir] can cause lipoatrophy (fat loss). The way to avoid it is to avoid those drugs. You didn't say what you switched from and to, so I can't comment about your switch. Big waists are more difficult to evaluate. If the fat is visceral (inside the abdomen), then it could be a sign of an ongoing problem, or it could just be that the fat has nowhere else to go. On the other hand, if the fat is under the skin (if you can pinch it between your fingers), then it's probably just plain fat. Exercise and diet can help, regardless of the cause.
Question from anonymous: First of all, thanks for doing this Dr. Gallant. My question regarding side effects is: How can I manage the fatigue that I experience secondary to HIV medications, as well as other medications and conditions due to HIV? I'm so tired of being tired.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: You shouldn't have to live with fatigue. If it's caused by meds, you may need to change [your regimen]. But don't forget to rule out the other possible causes: depression (the biggest), anemia, low testosterone, thyroid problems, etc.
Question from smartdog: What is the best cure for neuropathy?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: There's no cure for neuropathy. The most important thing is to keep your viral load suppressed, but not use drugs that cause neuropathy (d4T and ddI [generic name: didanosine; brand name: Videx]). Rule out other causes (alcohol, diabetes, B12 deficiency, and thyroid problems). There are drugs that can help the symptoms, such as Neurontin [generic name: gabapentin; also sold under the brand name: Gabarone], Lamictal [generic name: lamotrigine], etc.
Question from Bill: I am taking Atripla [a coformulated drug consisting of: efavirenz, tenofovir and emtricitabine], and for the first time in 18 years, my viral load is undetectable and the regimen makes it very easy to stay on track. I have little, if any, side effects, but the very wild and vivid dreams that accompany it sometimes. Although these dreams can be quite entertaining, I have had a few that would really be classified as "NIGHTMARES." My question is: Will they subside with time or does this side effect continue? I have been on it for six months now.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: Whatever side effects you still have at six months are the side effects that are going to remain -- things generally don't keep getting better after the first three to four weeks. So, you have to decide whether these are things you can live with or not.
Question from Rich: I have the same problem as Ken [with regards to body shape changes] ... but I try to eat low-fat, high-protein meals and I go to the gym daily. What else can be done? I also have ED [erectile dysfunction] and take Atripla. Is there help for this condition? I'm in my 50s.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: I'd need to know what you have ... lipoatrophy, fat accumulation, or both. I already discussed what can be done for lipoatrophy. With fat accumulation, you have to find out whether it's really internal fat or just subcutaneous fat. If it's abnormal internal fat accumulation, there are some experimental therapies, such as growth hormone releasing hormone. You could look for clinical trials. Growth hormone can help, but the benefits are transient.
Question from anonymous: Which regimen has the least side effects? I am currently NOT taking HIV meds. But, I do take Seroquel [generic name: quetiapine] and imipramine [brand name: Tofranil] for depression/anxiety, so my liver is already somewhat taxed. I guess Sustiva [generic name: efavirenz; also sold under the brand name: Stocrin] is out, because of my mental health stuff. I'm new to meds and have no drug resistance. I'm 42, and have been HIV positive for 22 years.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: Sustiva is not "out" unless you don't tolerate it. Many people with depression and anxiety do fine on Sustiva, as long as their mental health problems are well controlled when they start. And don't assume that your liver is "taxed," unless there's evidence of damage on blood tests. Your options for starting therapy are pretty much the same as they would be for anyone else.
Question from Liz: Is there anything I can do about blood sugar problems? I take Reyataz [generic name: atazanavir] and my doc's been saying maybe I should switch.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: Reyataz is unlikely to cause blood sugar problems, so it may have nothing to do with your medications. Aerobic exercise, a low-sugar, low-carb diet, and weight loss can all help. But keep in mind that many of these metabolic conditions are common in HIV-negative people too, so they're not always caused by medications.
Question from Marshall: What can be done about gastrointestinal problems? I've been dealing and dealing, but I'm tired of running to the bathroom all the time. I'm resistant, so my doctor doesn't think I really have any other treatment options. Any recommendations for coping?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: If you're taking PIs [protease inhibitors], fiber supplements can be extremely helpful (Citrucel [generic name: methylcellulose], Metamucil [generic name: psyllium; also sold under other brand names], FiberCon [generic name: calcium polycarbophil]). Don't be put off by the word "laxative" on the bottle -- fiber adds bulk to stool, which is a good thing whether it's too liquid or too solid. Most of my patients are reluctant at first, but once they try it, they won't go back.
Question from anonymous: I am doing just fine on my Combivir [a coformulated drug consisting of: zidovudine and lamivudine], but I have been reading about Epzicom [a coformulated drug consisting of: abacavir and lamivudine; also sold under the brand name: Kivexa]. How will I know if I will develop fat wasting if I stay on Combivir, and is there anything I need to ask my doctor about with regards to switching to Epzicom?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: The AZT in Combivir is known to cause lipoatrophy. That doesn't mean it always will, but it's a risk. One approach would be to wait until you develop mild lipoatrophy and then switch. However, there are other problems with Combivir as well, which is why it's falling out of favor. I generally use Truvada [a coformulated drug consisting of: tenofovir and emtricitabine] or Epzicom rather than Combivir for many reasons. If you're going to use Epzicom, make sure you check your HLA-B*5701 test first.
Question from anonymous: I would like to know where, if anywhere, I could get help with the hump on my back and my sucked-in cheeks. I have been HIV positive since 1986, and this is really affecting my physical, spiritual and emotional well-being.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: The sucked-in cheeks (facial lipoatrophy) can be treated with injections of Sculptra [generic name: poly-L-lactic acid; also sold under the brand name: New-Fill] or other face fillers, but it's rarely covered by insurance. You'd need to see a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Ask about whether there are patient assistance programs. (And make sure you're not still taking medications that cause the problem.)
Buffalo humps can be treated with liposuction, but it's hard to get insurance to cover that procedure, and the fat sometimes returns. It's important to make sure you don't have insulin resistance or high cholesterol/triglycerides, which could make the problem worse. Growth hormone can also help, but it's very expensive, and the problem can return as soon as you stop the drug. You could also find out whether there's a growth hormone releasing hormone study in your area.
Question from sammy: I have been told that gabapentin can help with neuropathy. Are there any side effects to worry about?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: The main side effect is excessive sedation. You can start at a low dose and work your way up if you need a higher dose.
Question from Bill: I know it is early, but does Truvada or Isentress [generic name: raltegravir; also known as MK-0518] cause any mental problems (i.e., weird dreams, etc.)? Also, I notice rashes from time to time. I am on the following HIV meds: Isentress, Prezista [generic name: darunavir; also known as TMC114], Truvada and Norvir [generic name: ritonavir]. Thank you for your time.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: Truvada and Isentress don't generally cause mental side effects -- none of the meds you listed do.
Question from anonymous: My previous doctor started me on Videx 250 mg once a day, Viread [generic name: tenofovir] 300 mg once a day and Kaletra [a coformulated drug consisting of: lopinavir and ritonavir] 200 mg twice a day, three years ago. Since then, I have noticed issues with my joints and muscles. My new doctor suggests that I stop taking Videx as this could be the problem, also mentioning that doctors don't really like to use it any more due to its high toxicity level and side effects. Dr. Gallant, in your opinion, do you think Videx could be the cause of my new medical issues? Thank you.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: What you're describing doesn't sound like neuropathy, which can be caused by Videx. It's true that Videx is less often used than other NRTIs [nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors], but I don't think I can attribute your problems to that drug.
Question from anonymous: I'm taking Atripla and I am experiencing acid buildup in my stomach -- to the point where I can taste it on the back of my throat. It's like a metallic taste in my mouth. It gets so bad on an empty stomach that it keeps me awake at night. If I take a TUMS [generic name: calcium carbonate] or Rolaids [generic name: calcium carbonate], it goes away for a while but comes back. Can I eat something small, like some ice cream, beforehand to help my body ingest this better?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: The only reason we tell people not to eat with Sustiva/Atripla is because it can increase the mental side effects. But if that's not a problem for you, it's OK to take it with food. It sounds like you have esophageal reflux, and you might need to take an H2 blocker or proton pump inhibitor -- ask your doc. Also, avoid big meals before bedtime.
Question from anonymous: Our daughter is 5 years old and has been on Kaletra, Epivir [generic name: lamivudine; also known as 3TC] and Retrovir since she was four. We aren't even sure which of her "poor" behaviors are the result of acting out and which are due to her HIV drug cocktail. She is up late, lacks attention, has night terrors and can't sleep. We adopted her from South Africa and got her at 3.5 years of age. Then she went on these meds. Even though she has responded well to the meds, we are wondering when it's appropriate to stop or switch her HIV treatment. What do you recommend?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: It's hard to comment without knowing more about her viral load and CD4 count, but as a general rule, stopping therapy is rarely a good idea. I'm no expert in pediatrics, but the things you describe aren't typical side effects of these drugs in adults. You should talk this over with her doctor, but given that these problems are common in children and not common as side effects of the drugs your daughter is taking, I wouldn't be inclined to make a change if her regimen is successful.
Question from anonymous: Avascular neuropathy [note: the correct term is avascular necrosis; also known as AVN] is a sleeper impact of steroid use in PCP [pneumocystis carinii pneumonia] treatment. Is early hip resurfacing more appropriate than total hip replacement?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: Steroids can cause avascular necrosis (not neuropathy), but they're not the only cause. It occurs more often in people with HIV infection, but we don't know whether that's due to HIV or to meds. Some of my patients with AVN have had hip replacement and some have had resurfacing. I leave that decision to the orthopedic surgeons.
Question from 3426TOR: Which medications cause mental problems, just to keep them in mind?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: Mainly Sustiva (also contained in Atripla). Some people used to report depression with AZT, but that was back in the old days when we used higher doses. They may have been depressed because they were anemic, fatigued, and sleep deprived from taking it every four hours through the night!
Question from Rich: My doctor told me not to take Atripla unless two hours have passed since I last ate any food. Are you saying that I now do not have to wait the two hours? Sometimes I have eaten and then taken the pill one hour after eating and have had no side effects. It would help if I knew that I would still be OK by taking it on a full stomach. Thank you very much.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: (This is in reference to the person who was having GI [gastrointestinal] problems on Atripla.) Like I said, you do NOT have to wait two hours. That's just advice we give in the beginning to minimize nervous system side effects. If you can take Sustiva/Atripla with food without problems, then it's fine to do that. Drug levels are HIGHER, not lower, when you take it with food, especially fatty food.
Question from MDBR: What are the main side effects of the new medication that was just approved last week? I think it is called Isentress.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: As far as we can tell so far, the side effects of Isentress were "the same as placebo." In other words, if it has side effects, we haven't found them yet.
Question from anonymous: Could differences between generic drugs and name brand drugs be responsible for unusual side effects? Are brand-name drugs more pure and efficient? Thanks, Joseph.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: In the U.S., generics get approved after they're shown to be equivalent to brand-name drugs, so I have no problem prescribing generic drugs here in this country. The quality control standards may differ from country to country, so I can't generalize to other parts of the world.
Question from anonymous: My CD4 count is 168 and I am on tuberculosis [also known as TB] drugs. How urgent is it for me to start ARVs [antiretrovirals]? I have taken the TB meds for a month now. What are the possible side effects due to taking both?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: It's often a good idea to wait a couple of months before starting HIV meds if you're on TB meds. That's partly due to drug interactions and overlapping toxicity, but it's also to decrease the chances of an immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) reaction, which can happen if you suddenly improve the immune system while still sick with TB.
Question from David53: Dr. Gallant: I am a 53-year-old, white male who has been positive since 1986. I have managed my HIV since that time, starting with AZT monotherapy immediately after my diagnosis. I have responded well to the new cocktails, though I have had to change them three or four times since 1996. Currently, my viral load is low or undetectable, and my CD4 count is around 600. Since January of this year, I have experienced chronic urticaria (hives) over most of my body. I have seen an allergist about the problem, and after many tests he suggests that it is either the HIV virus or my meds. I have eliminated EVERYTHING from my diet that could be an issue. I am currently on Lexiva [generic name: fosamprenavir; also sold under the brand name: Telzir], Norvir, Viramune [generic name: nevirapine], Epivir and Viread. I understand that Lexiva is sulfa-based, and I think as a child I was allergic to sulfa. My HIV doctor would rather not change my meds, as they are working well, and so I simply manage my hives with antihistamines. Have you ever heard of HIV or HIV meds as a cause for chronic urticaria? Many thanks for your contribution to this chat. All the best, David53.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: Lexiva is the PI that may be most likely to cause rash or allergic reactions (Prezista is another). So if there's any question about whether this could be drug-related, a change in meds is something you could consider. Most of the other PIs aren't a problem.
Question from anonymous: Does HIV medication affect erectile dysfunction? Are more pills really the answer?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: It's not entirely clear, but some people with HIV infection develop low testosterone levels, which could be due to HIV infection, medications, or both. If your testosterone level is low, then you need testosterone. If it's not, the erectile dysfunction is probably not related to your meds.
Question from anonymous: Fuzeon [generic name: enfuvirtide; also known as T-20] is associated with injection site reactions, and psychological resistance to self-injection can result in early treatment cessation. Is an oral formulation of Fuzeon likely to become available? If so, will it be available for re-use in those who stopped for reasons other than treatment failure?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: There will be no oral Fuzeon any time soon. It's too large a molecule. However, there is one approved oral entry inhibitor (Selzentry [generic name: maraviroc; also sold under the brand name: Celsentri]), and we expect more to come.
Question from mike: Will the next class of HIV drugs have the same side effects as the protease inhibitors?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: I mentioned the side effects (or lack thereof) of the integrase inhibitors already. We also know that, so far, maraviroc (the first CCR5 inhibitor) is pretty well tolerated as well. None of these drugs seem to cause much in the way of metabolic side effects, which we see with some of the PIs.
Question from lehma1br: I know a person who is taking Atripla. He said that the diarrhea and nausea were awful, and so now he changed his dosage from everyday to once every other day without consulting his physician. His counts were undetectable, and now they are very high again. Do you have any advice?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: Your friend should stop playing doctor, because he's not doing a very good job. First, Atripla rarely causes either diarrhea or nausea, so he should have looked for other causes. But, even if it was the Atripla, going to every other day dosing was extremely dangerous from a resistance standpoint. He should have talked to his doctor, tried to find out whether it was really a drug toxicity or not, and if it was, he should have changed meds.
Question from thedude: What do you mean by metabolic side effects?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: High cholesterol, triglycerides, or insulin resistance (which can lead to high blood sugar or diabetes).
Question from anonymous: Dear doctor, I too am taking Atripla once a day, and from the onset I have had a constant ringing in my ears. Is that a side effect to be expected????
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: No, it's not expected, but I suppose it could be from the Sustiva contained in Atripla. If it started when you started Atripla, then that's probably the cause. You'll have to decide whether it's something you're willing to put up with or not -- there are plenty of other alternatives. (Note that caffeine can make tinnitus -- ringing in the ears -- worse.)
Question from anonymous: Having never suffered from depression or any mental illness, I am amazed that five years after starting Sustiva I am still debilitated by the psychological side effects of this medication. I am no longer able to live this way (depressed, unable to concentrate, relentless dreams, constantly in a "fog"), despite an undetectable viral load and CD4 count of 475. I'm discussing other options with my doctor. My question is: Will my mind ever feel right again? I search and search for information on the long-term effects of Sustiva and can find nothing. Thank you for taking time to discuss the mental effects of Sustiva.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: Five years??? You waited five years to discuss this with your doctor?!?! There are some people -- not many, but some -- who simply can't tolerate this drug, either because of intense short-term side effects or lingering long-term problems. It's often pretty clear within a month, since most Sustiva side effects have disappeared by then. If I have a patient who doesn't like the way he feels after one month of Sustiva, we switch to something else. If your problems are due to Sustiva, they'll disappear quickly within a few days of stopping the drug, and you'll wonder why you waited so long.
Question from anonymous: Hey there. I get very bad diarrhea (I'm taking Norvir, Prezista and Truvada). I was wondering what you can recommend to help reduce the symptoms.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: Read my answer above, about the glories of fiber supplements. Take them twice a day when you take your meds.
Question from Yoyo: I'm newly diagnosed and worried about the damage HIV meds might do to my heart. Many of my (HIV-negative) relatives have suffered from heart disease. How much will HIV drugs increase my risk of developing heart disease? Are certain HIV meds better than others for people like me that are already at risk for heart disease?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: HIV itself is probably a bigger risk to your heart than meds are, so the best thing you can do is treat your HIV. However, there are some meds that are less likely to increase your cholesterol than others. For example, Sustiva/Atripla, Reyataz, and now Isentress have less of an effect on cholesterol, and probably on blood sugar, than some of the other PIs.
Question from anonymous: Dr. Gallant: My generalist (not the AIDS specialist) suggested I take non-addictive Simply Sleep to counteract my vivid dreams caused by Atripla. Is it advisable? Is there danger of conflict with my Atripla? I know that it did eradicate the dreams entirely, therefore I am fully rested in the morning.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: I don't know what's in it. Do you know what the active ingredient is?
Moderator: Dr. Gallant, in reference to the Simply Sleep question, its active ingredient appears to be diphenhydramine. The drug's produced by the makers of Tylenol.
Dr. Joel Gallant: In that case, it's quite safe. The only problem is drowsiness or "fogginess" in the AM, which can also occur with Sustiva/Atripla. But if you're not bothered by it, then it's OK to use.
Question from anonymous: My regimen consists of Kaletra and Lamzid (Combivir). I am doing well so far, but I have hyperpigmentation, which concerns me. I have read that the AZT in Combivir could be the problem. Please advise which of these medicines causes hyperpigmentation and what I can do to deal with the problem. My doctor does not seem to have a clue what to do. I am really worried and my confidence is very low, so much so that I avoid meeting people who know me, as they immediately notice the changes in my facial appearance.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: When AZT causes hyperpigmentation, it's usually in the fingernails. It would be unusual for it to cause darkening of the face, but I won't say it's impossible. Keep in mind that some drugs can cause photosensitivity, which means they make you more sensitive to the effects of the sun. The solution for that problem is sunscreen. But if there's any question about a direct AZT effect, you could certainly switch to a different nuke [nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor].
Question from jack coppola: How long does it take to notice any sign of lipodystrophy. I am on Atripla, I am a treatment-naive patient, I started in July, and I've noticed that my veins are more prominent on my hands and forearms. Is it too soon to see this kind of change in body fat distribution? I'm not sure that it is a "real change" or something I just didn't pay much attention to before.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: Atripla shouldn't cause this problem, so maybe you're just looking at yourself too hard.
Question from anonymous: My cousin is taking a drug called Stalanev (a generic combination of stavudine, lamivudine and nevirapine available in the developing world) and she is developing boils all over her body, like five at a time. Could that be a side effect of her HIV meds, and what can she do to stop them? We can't go to the hospital lest the staff suspect her condition. We are staying in China and HIV is quite a taboo here. Please help before she loses hope.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: I doubt that these boils are directly caused by either HIV or her drugs. It's more likely that she's colonized by the Staph bacterium, something that can happen in anyone. HIV infection could increase the risk or the severity of the problem, but the answer is to continue HIV treatment, not to stop it. (Keep in mind that I'm guessing about the Staph. There are other possible causes, but I've picked the most common.)
The treatment for Staph abscesses is to drain the pus, to use appropriate antibiotics (based on the results of a culture of the pus), and sometimes to try to rid the body of the organisms using antibacterial body washes and anti-Staph ointments.
You shouldn't assume that people will assume she's HIV positive because of these boils. She should go to a hospital if she needs to. But she's obviously getting medical care, since she's on treatment. Why can't she go to her doctor for some help?
Question from anonymous: I was recently diagnosed and treated for kidney stones, but there are still some small fragments remaining. During this six-month period, my creatinine levels elevated to a range of 1.3 to 1.7. Because of the kidney problems, as well as some occasional severe diarrhea, my doctors are considering changing my regimen from Norvir-boosted Lexiva and Truvada to boosted Reyataz and Epzicom. I understand that Truvada hits the kidneys hard, but I don't understand why he wants me to switch to Reyataz, which has liver-related side effects and also diarrhea. I don't want to switch meds that I have had good results with, and some friends have had problems with Reyataz. What do you think?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: It makes sense to switch to Epzicom because of the kidney issues. It's also possible that boosted Reyataz might cause a little less diarrhea than Lexiva -- from a GI standpoint, it's probably the best tolerated of the PIs. On the other hand, "occasional severe diarrhea" is not common with any of the boosted PIs -- it's more common to have low-grade, chronic loose stools. One option would be to make one switch at a time, switching to Epzicom first (assuming you're negative for HLA-B*5701) to see how you do. Try fiber supplements to see if they help with the diarrhea. If the problem persists, you could then think about the PI switch.
Moderator: Dr. Gallant, could you take a minute to explain a bit more about what HLA-B*5701 is?
Dr. Joel Gallant: HLA-B*5701 is a simple blood test that can be used to predict whether you will get a hypersensitivity reaction [also known as an HSR] to abacavir [brand name: Ziagen]. If the test is positive, you should never take abacavir in any form (Trizivir [a coformulated drug consisting of: zidovudine, lamivudine and abacavir], Ziagen, Epzicom).
If the test is negative, then it is very unlikely that you will get an HSR. We always use this test now before starting abacavir.
Question from Billie: Will my insurance company pay for this HLA test?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: They should. It's not very expensive (less than $100, compared with $1,960 for a Trofile assay). They may not even notice!
Question from anonymous: How does excess protein in urine affect a person? Why does the body excrete protein when it should be retaining it? How does protein loss affect the kidney?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: You can lose protein in the urine for all sorts of reasons, but it's always a sign that something is wrong with the kidneys. The list of possible problems is too long to mention here, but if you've got protein in your urine, you need to be evaluated. Don't focus on the protein loss, but on what it's telling you about your kidneys.
Question from anonymous: At what CD4 count could a female taking HIV meds have children?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: It's physically possible to have children at any CD4 count. The viral load has more to do with predicting the risk of transmitting the virus to the baby. That's not to say that the CD4 count isn't important -- a woman should optimize her health before having children, and she should be thinking about whether she'll be healthy enough to be a good mom. Someone with no CD4 cells probably has more pressing concerns than having to chase rugrats around the house.
Question from anonymous: Ten days ago, I started taking Atripla. On around the sixth day, I noticed a small blotch on my chest. The next day, it was covering my neck, arms and chest. My doctor said it was common for this to happen. He told me to stop taking the Atripla. Yesterday (day 9, second day with no Atripla) the rash had spread to almost my entire body: my face, arms, legs, thighs, private areas, back, everywhere. My doctor then put me on a prednisone [brand names: Prednisone Intensol, Sterapred] taper. Meanwhile, a good friend of mine is a doctor that specializes in HIV. He said that it doesn't make sense that my doctor is having me just stop Atripla without putting me on anything else for the time being. My CD4 cell levels are pretty low. What should I do about my treatment?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: I agree with your friend. Rashes are common with Atripla (because of the Sustiva it contains), but it rarely requires stopping the drug. The rash generally goes away on its own without stopping or switching medications. The only time we recommend stopping therapy is if the rash is severe -- for example, if there is fever, peeling skin, or involvement of the mouth. Stopping Atripla without replacing it with something else can result in resistance to Sustiva and other related drugs.
It's possible that a prednisone taper will help the rash to go away faster, though you'll never know for sure, since the rash is going to get better regardless of what you do.
Question from anonymous: I have been taking Kivexa for about 18 months now. I have noticed since then several small bruises (they look like freckles) along my lower legs, but only along the tibia. Is this related? My counts are very good.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: Kivexa (Epzicom to Americans) is unlikely to cause this problem.
Question from Flag04: When my wife was pregnant two years ago (HIV positive since 1990), her specialist put her on AZT, Truvada, Viramune, and Kaletra ... all of which were to help her AND help prevent transmission to the fetus. After our son was born (HIV negative), she was kept on the same drugs because it had brought her down to an undetectable viral load at [the time of our son's] birth. During that time, and into the present, she developed some horrible arthritic-type pains throughout her body: primarily her hands, neck, and the lower trunk of her body. A new specialist said that she was overdoing it on the meds and started her on just Kaletra and Truvada. Could the "excessive" meds have caused all the joint pain she's been experiencing in the last two and a half years? We've tested for Lyme disease, human parvovirus, and a number of autoimmune diseases with no answers. The docs just say "it could be the meds, but because of the HIV, the tests may not be accurate either." Whew ... thanks.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: These aren't typical medication side effects. But assuming she has no resistance, I agree that the old regimen was overkill (especially for a pregnant woman, where we try to minimize drug exposure).
Question from ChrisTampa28: Could my Atripla be causing my liver enzymes to get real high and this pain that I have on my left side chest wall/rib area? Enzymes are 550. Started about a month ago. Always been normal. Negative for hepatitis. Have had an ultrasound, X-ray, cat scan, and blood work. They can't figure out what's wrong. My spleen is swollen and I'm always feeling tired and have this very bad pain. My CD4 is around 500 and I'm undetectable.
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: Atripla doesn't often cause serious liver enzyme elevation, but it can, especially in people with chronic hepatitis. Remember that the usual antibody tests don't completely rule out hepatitis B and C. If there's suspicion, you need PCR [polymerase chain reaction] tests as well (HCV RNA, HBV DNA). Since you have symptoms and very high enzymes, this isn't something you want to play around with. If the work-up is completely negative, it MAY be necessary to stop meds.
Question from anonymous: What can one do in advance to avoid gaining fat while on HIV drugs?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: We know less about avoiding fat accumulation than we do about fat loss, because it's not entirely clear what it is or what causes it. My advice would be to eat well, do regular aerobic exercise, and treat insulin resistance or hyperlipidemia if you have them (or change to drugs that don't cause those problems).
Question from Dgathers2004: Is it safe to take a herbal colon cleanser while I'm on HIV meds?
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: Safe? Probably. Will it help you? Doubtful.
Moderator: I'm afraid we only have time to answer one more question. My apologies to all of you who have submitted questions that we couldn't get to today! We hope you'll use TheBody.com's "Ask the Experts" area at www.thebody.com/experts.shtml to get the answers to your questions.
Question from anonymous: For those of us who haven't started treatment, can you tell us which combination or combinations you find to be most side effect-free? Much appreciated!
Answer from Dr. Joel Gallant: With side effects, it's always a bit of a trial and error process, and what's great for some will be intolerable for others. I find Atripla to be very well tolerated for most people, for example, but a few can't get past the neurologic side effects. The PIs are much better tolerated than they used to be, and we're excited about raltegravir. The key is to stick with it until you find the regimen that works for you.
Moderator: And that'll do it for our live chat on HIV treatment side effects. Dr. Gallant, our deepest thanks for taking the time to answer everybody's questions!
Dr. Joel Gallant: It's been a pleasure, though my wrists are sore.
Moderator: Please feel free to bill us for the medical treatment. :) Incidentally, word on the street is that you've got a new book coming out?
Dr. Joel Gallant: Time for SHAMELESS SELF-PROMOTION: Keep an eye out for "100 Questions and Answers About HIV and AIDS" by Yours Truly, now available for pre-order on Amazon. You can read even MORE questions than you read on this chat!
Moderator: I'll be counting the days before I get my copy. :) Thank you again, Dr. Gallant!
To all of you who asked questions or took the time to join our chat tonight: Thank you for spending the past hour with us!
Copyright © 2007 Body Health Resources Corporation. All rights reserved.
This article was provided by TheBody.


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Downtown restaurants, bars urge Manchester aldermen to nix summer Hanover Street 'block parties'By TED SIEFER
New Hampshire Union Leader
June 12. 2013 11:11PM
MANCHESTER — Don't call them party-poopers, but a group of downtown restaurant and bar owners is urging the aldermen to nix weekend "block parties" on Hanover Street during the summer months.
The managers of 16 establishments have signed a petition against the Hanover Street closure, which began as a pilot program last summer and was hailed by restaurants and other businesses on the street as a great success. Under the plan, a block and a half of the street, from Chestnut Street to Nutfield Lane, would be closed to traffic to make way for more outdoor seating, live music and other entertainment on Friday and Saturday evenings.
The petition, submitted to the Board of Mayor and Aldermen at its meeting last week, states, "We the undersigned felt it necessary to share a collective concern surrounding the 'block parties' that occurred on Hanover St."
The petition states that the closure "prevents customers from access to our operations and 'herds' them toward alternate routes. Last year most of us experienced a significant reduction in revenue generation, specifically during the times when Hanover St. was barricaded."
Steven Thompson, the general manager of XO on Elm, presented the petition to the aldermen.
XO has been in the news recently over a controversial loan from the Manchester Development Corporation that a couple of aldermen have likened to a "bailout." A large majority of the aldermen voted to approve the loan.
Parking issues
Ed Sekenski, a co-owner of Doogie's Bar and Grill on Manchester Street, told the aldermen last week that his business and neighboring establishments were affected because parking spaces on the street were eliminated as part of the Hanover closure.
"This winter was very tough for everyone. We're just starting to spring back. If this vote goes through, we'll see another business close," Sekenski said, adding, "If you do close the street, make it fair for everybody and shut down Elm" — downtown's main thoroughfare.
The issue threatens to divide the downtown restaurant community, which has grown considerably over the past decade.
Tiffany Shepard, the manager at Penuche's on Hanover, said she believed the closure brought more people into downtown. "If anything it should be good for their businesses," she said.
She added, "I absolutely love XO, The Shaskeen, Jelly's, all those bars, and I hope this doesn't cause any conflict."
The restaurants on Hanover Street, including Penuche's, Hooked, and the Ignite Bar and Grille, have estimated that they saw a 20 to 30 percent increase in business last year during the summer months, offsetting the decline that typically occurs at that time.
Last year the owner of Penuche's, Chuck Kalatzes, covered the cost of live music on Hanover. Kalatzes, along with other proprietors, recently formed an association to coordinate the event. The group had intended to propose having the first closure take place over the Fourth of July weekend. The aldermen are expected to consider restarting the pedestrian-only program at their next meeting, July 2.
A free market
Ward 3 Alderman Pat Long, who has been a strong proponent of the plan, said he "doesn't understand" the opposition. "It's a free market. You should be encouraging businesses to prosper," he said. "People hear someone playing saxophone, piano, they're going to walk by. The idea is to get foot-traffic in front of the businesses."
Long added that he has expressed a willingness to consider other street closures, but he said so far no other businesses have brought forward a proposal.
John Paolini, the owner of Piccola Italia, on Elm Street, said the "block party" had the effect of diverting customers from his restaurant and others in the vicinity.
"If it was our Friday night date night, and I walked by there and saw the bands, I would probably want to stay there too," he said.
Piccola Italia opened 12 years ago, before the restaurant boom, and Paolini noted that he often donated food for civic causes, including last week for an event at Central High School.
"I wish we all could win," he said. "But if there are five guys at a poker table, chances are there's only going to be one big winner. That's a fact."email@example.com


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JUNE 9, 2004 - Posted at 10:29 a.m. CDT
SIMI VALLEY, CA - Preparations are underway to take former President Reagan's casket on a cross-country journey.
A black Cadillac hearse arrived at the Reagan library in Simi Valley, California, where the former president's body has been lying in repose. A second hearse was brought in as a spare.
Reagan's family will escort his body from the library to a nearby Navy base for a flight to Andrews Air Force Base outside Washington. A procession this evening will carry the body into the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol building, where it will lie in state until Friday's funeral service.
President Bush is expected to go to the Capitol sometime tomorrow evening to view the casket. He and the first lady also plan to call on Nancy Reagan, who'll be staying at the official guest residence near the White House.


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Watch The ::God Is Imaginary Videos On YouTube ::
Nope, not gonna happen. we are quibbling over the definition of a word. I believe you are an atheist I am an agnostic atheist and I believe that most claimed atheists are agnostic atheists or weak atheists. Like my friend i do find the strongest sense of the word atheist is a very rare person. Probably self absorbed and cock sure of himself. but even dawkins (spelling) admitts to be only 99.99999% atheist. that leaves a small amount of room for the existence of god. I myself am 99.99999% sure the bible is wrong, and 99.9% sure there are no gods or dieties or magic, or unicorns... I am not 100% sure because I am not so arrogant as to say I know for a fact that I know enough to answer with authority on the absolute absence of god.You will have to take me at my word but I am not misrepresenting myself.


text: If i already have a trojan virus on my computer and I install a firewall, would the firewall block the attacker using the trojan horse that had already been planted, or would the attacker be able to continue to use the trojan? Also, could somebody tell me what firewall hardware is? Thanks in advance for any help.


text:
Top Chef All Star favorite Carla Hall was sent packing on the last episode of the show after coming up short in the elimination and quick fire challenges.
In a new interview with TV Guide, Carla talks being eliminated and admits she would have sent herself packing too. Carla also discusses why she lost focus, what she's up to today and why she didn't give us any "hootie-hoo"s this season. Excerpts from her interview below –
Could you have left the rice off since it was "undone-te"?
Carla: [Laughs] Exactly, it was "undone-te"! I could've left it off. As soon as I poured that rice into that pot, I turned to Hosea and said, "I just gave you $10,000." Tom said, "I can't get past rice that's not cooked properly." Me either. No argument there. … My frame of mind wasn't there. It's also hard stopping the competition [in September], coming back to your regular life and then going back in [for the finals in January]. I didn't have the same focus.
You agreed with the judges' decision. Did you think you were going home?
Carla: Yeah, in the stew room, Antonia thought she was going. I said, "No, I'm going." It wasn't until Judges' Table that I realized how underdone the pork was. As soon as I heard that, I knew. I would've sent myself home too. I won't fight for a bad dish. … I said this on the show: I would've rather gone home knowing I did a really great dish, even in New York at Ellis Island. I loved that dish. I would've preferred to go home then because I would've been out-cooked. I didn't want to go home with a dish that had technical flaws and one where I didn't push the envelope.
I was disappointed we didn't hear any "hootie-hoo"s this season. What happened?
Carla: We did them. They just didn't show them. I know, with Matthew, people were saying, "Why didn't you 'hootie-hoo' each other?" Well, I knew where he was. He was right at the table!
As for what she's up to today, Carla reveals she's transitioning from catering into doing a line of cookies. "I changed the name from Alchemy Caterers to Alchemy by Carla Hall. It'll be a line of seasonal products until I eventually hopefully open up a café," she said.
In other Carla news, she has talked on the show about being a former model in the early 90s, and now we have a number of her photos from her modelings days courtesy of ivillage. Carla was a high fashion model for a few years strutting her stuff on the runways of London, Paris and Milan. Those photos are below!
Moving on to tonight's new episode as the four remaining All-Stars are left standing and it's a fight to the finish to claim the coveted title of 'Top Chef.' But it won't be an easy road to the finale as the chef'testants have to face the high stakes in the Bahamas. First roadblock? What happens when the chef'testants must physically fish for local Bahamian protein? And for the elimination round, the chef'testants must pair up to deliver a winning meal. When the pairs end up as girls vs. guys, it becomes one last battle-of-the-sexes before the Finale.


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Airline grounded by rebranding madness
New wordmark encapsulates the fundamental brand proposition
LogoWatch Those rebranding madness fans among you who enjoyed the recent outbreak at Virgin Galactic are in for a treat today, courtesy of Oasis Hong Kong Airlines. Thanks very much to reader Ian Atkin for pointing us in the direction of this complete cobblers:
Every element of the Oasis Hong Kong Airlines identity has been crafted to convey our simple, powerful message: affordable, global mobility, provided by an airline whose home is one of the world's most dynamic cities.
Our logo is a wordmark that neatly links "Oasis" with "Hong Kong" to communicate our name, the type of brand experience we offer and our home.
The typeface, a modified version of Mondial, encapsulates the fundamental brand proposition: safety and comfort with unprecedented value. The stylized i of OASiS represents the essence of both our company and Hong Kong: international, innovative and inspired.
Our primary colours are red and white, the colours of the Hong Kong flag. "HONG KONG" is in medium grey, a colour that conveys our commitment to reliability and the professionalism of our experienced staff.
The bright tail fins of the Oasis Hong Kong Airlines aircraft feature our brand signature: bold streaks of light in red, orange and white. They are an instantly recognizable reference to ever-dynamic, diverse Hong Kong. They also communicate what we provide, i.e., the ability to fly non-stop instead of having to transit at an intermediate point.
The energy of our brand identity extends to the aircraft cabin interiors, where the theme is "refreshing and cosmopolitan". colours are warm, inviting shades of purple, magenta and orange for the seat covers and aubergine for the carpeting. Our specially-designed seat cover pattern is called "infinite oasis," and features an ever-continuing flow of dots that represents the joy of mobility and discovery.
Brilliant. A round of applause to the Strategy Boutique which managed to get "fundamental brand proposition" and "infinite oasis" in there without being ejected by security from the Oasis Hong Kong offices with their joss-sticks firmly shoved where the sun don't shine. ®
For more Powerpoint and whalesong-driven nonsense, try the Strategy Boutique skech on our new Radio RTFM broadcast.
More rebranding madness
UK charity has minor attack of rebranding madness (3 November 2006)
Virgin Galactic goes Starck raving bonkers (15 September 2006)
NZ power company decimated by rebranding madness (5 September 2006)
MasterCard succumbs to rebranding madness (6 July 2006)
Strategy Boutiques invade Japan (9 July 2004)
Capgemini succumbs to rebranding madness (13 May 2004)
NZ army reels under rebranding frontal assault (21 January 2004)
Taiwan hit by sudden outbreak of rebranding madness (20 January 2004)
Terrifying outbreak of rebranding madness in France (20 June 2003)
Whalesong-driven rebranding madness spreads to Spain (18 June 2003)
Rebranding kiss of death strikes Deloitte Consulting (7 April 2003)
Braxton logo springs into the light (10 March 2003)
Deloitte Consulting fires up the whalesong and joss sticks (10 March 2003)
3: a LogoWatch special (9 October 2002)
LogoWatch The future's bright – the future's purple (20 August 2001)
LogoWatch MySQL swims with the dolphins (1 August 2001)
LogoWatch Sema rebranding ends in tears (7 June 2001)
LogoWatch Zarlink trumpets imperial pretentions (1 June 2001)
LogoWatch With this ring, I thee sack (8 May 2001)
LogoWatch Telco punts for pink pound (1 May 2001)
LogoWatch VIA rises from eastern mountain (17 April 2001)
LogoWatch Sema aflame with vital energy (12 March 2001)


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i fought maat the past four nights and i fought him hard last night and finally kicked his butt. /cheer. but i just had to say that it it by far the most anxiety and nervousness ive felt in a long time and it was frustrating at the same time....and the fact that it is only a game....all i can do is laugh LOL
just had to share this /smile


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The Life of John Milton: A Critical Biography
The Life of John Milton: A Critical Biography
Jan 2001, Wiley-Blackwell
812 pages
In Stock
DescriptionProviding a close examination of Milton's wide-ranging prose and poetry at each stage of his life, Barbara Lewalski reveals a rather different Milton from that in earlier accounts.
- Provides a close analysis of each of Milton's prose and poetry works.
- Reveals how Milton was the first writer to self consciously construct himself as an 'author'.
- Focuses on the development of Milton's ideas and his art.
List of Abbreviations.
1. 'The childhood shews the man" (1608-1625).
2. "To Cambridge . . . for seven years" (1625-1632).
3. "Studious Retirement": Hammersmith and Horton (1632-1638).
4. "I became desirous . . . of seeing foreign parts, especially Italy" (1638-1639).
5. "All mouths were opened against . . . the bishops" (1639-1642).
6. "Domestic or Personal Liberty" (1642-1645).
7. "Service . . . Between Private Walls" (1645-1649).
8. "The so-called Council of State . . . desired to employ my services" (1649- 1652).
9. "Tireless . . . for the sake of Liberty" (1652-1654).
10. "I . . . still bear up and steer/ Right onward" (1654-1658).
11 "The last words of our expiring libertie" (1658-1660).
12 "In darknes, and with dangers compast round" (1660-1665).
13. "Higher Argument": Completing and Publishing Paradise Lost (1665-1669).
14. "To try, and teach the erring Soul" (1669-1674).
Epilogue: "Something ... Written to Aftertimes.".
Times Higher Education Supplement <!--end-->
"Arguably the most readable of modern Milton biographies, it reshapes our understanding of Milton the man, the thinker, political and religious activist, husband, parent, friend ...it is certain to be a classic among Milton studies" Reference Reviews
"The Life of John Milton . . . combines lucidity with its formidable erudition."
Terry Eagleton, The Observer Books of the Year, 2001
"A rigorous, up-to-date, yet surprisingly readable account of Milton's life and work… anyone concerned with the poet or the period will have to possess this book."
The Independent
"[Lewalski] has produced an outstanding biography, one that is reliable and readable. [...] It will be vaulable, not only to Milton specialists and students of English literature but to anyone who wants to learn about Milton's life and work."
Virginia Quarterly Review
"Lewalski's volume is immensely useful. In the process of discussing Milton's life and works, she gives the reader a believable figure facing major events and also the everyday business of moving through life. Such an appealing and readbale portrayal is welcome."
Renaissance Quarterly
"As a biography of Milton, Lewalski's Life is likely to remain the definitive work for decades to come." Church Times
"The Life of John Milton is the magnum opus of Barbara K Lewalski, one of the leading Miltonists of the past half-century. [...] As an introduction to Milton's life and work it is likely to remain unequalled for years to come - that rare thing, a work of reference to be read with profit and pleasure from cover to cover."
"Her achievements scarcely need endorsement. Unsurprising, she once more surefootedly picks her way through the polemical prose while writing richly about the major poetry." Milton Quarterly
- Provides a close analysis of each of Milton's prose and poetry works.
- Reveals how Milton was the first writer to self consciously construct himself as an 'author'.
- Focuses on the development of Milton's ideas and his art.


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OSLO (Reuters) - Norwegian telecoms group Telenor entered the online classifieds market on Monday, taking a stake in a Southeast Asian venture and establishing a South American business, it said in a statement.
Telenor will take a 33.3 percent stake in Southeast Asia focused 701 Search, an existing venture between Singapore Press Holdings and Norwegian publishing house Schibsted, and agreed to establish a 50/50 joint venture with Schibsted to create SnT Classifieds with a focus on South America.
"Telenor pays around 145 million euros in cash for its 50 percent share in SnT Classifieds and 33.3 percent stake in 701," it said. "The parties have committed pro rata funding of the joint ventures until estimated cash flow breakeven."
As part of the deal, Schibsted will contribute its existing South American assets, including Yapo in Chile and Bomnegocio in Brazil. Telenor will meanwhile contributes its Bangladeshi asset Cellbazaar to the Southeast Asian venture.
(Reporting by Balazs Koranyi; Editing by Leslie Gevirtz)


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When Laurie voters head to the polls April 2, they will elect two aldermen
When Laurie voters head to the polls April 2, they will elect two aldermen.
Ward I candidates:
Jill A. Bell
Background: Graduated in 1984 from Mt. Assisi Academy, Lemont, Ill. She is supervisor of Laundry and Housekeeping at Laurie Care Center/Laurie Knolls
Community Involvement: Currentally serving 2nd term on City of Laurie Planning and Zoning Board and an active member of the Laurie Enhancement Committe of Laurie.
Family: I am one of five children. Married to Thomas Bell for 20 years and proud mother of four children, Lauren 28, Shawn 26, Lindsey 20, Lucas 19 and Grandmother to one Anndee Marie age 2.
Vote for me because: I would like to help with good effective government and I believe one can make a difference. I feel it is an important time as a community to work together to improve our area and remain positive while we move forward. If you vote for me I promise I will listen, get the facts and make good decisions for the good of the whole community.
I am running because: I would like to better educate the community and reinterate to them that they have a Vote and a Voice with decisions made in the City of Laurie. I would like to see residents to come to a Board Meeting to get a better understanding on how the City of Laurie operates. "We together have the ability to make Laurie a better place for families, children and the young adults that will one day will govern themselves."
What is the most critical challenge for the city?
Preparing for the growth of business in the city and encouraging the growth of business in the city while staying in the black for the good of the citizens.
Val Ites, incumbent
Background: She has lived here 18 years after moving to the area from Iowa. She has owned Val's Restaurant in town for 11 years.
Community Involvement:
American Legion Auxiliary
Family: Husband in the military and three kids
Vote For Me Because: I believe in this town, and I think I have done a pretty good job.
I am running because: I'm now finally understanding things, and I see things I want to keep changing - things I want to work on.
What is the most critical challenge for the city?
The economy and finances. Getting the use tax would a help. It's something we've used to having that's been taken away. We get some grants, but it's hard to stay in budget with the economy hurting sales tax. I know some people are against events, but I think events are one of the things that keep the town going. What events make are not what the town makes. When people are here for events, they're buying gas and going out to eat. That stuff brings people to town. I know several families who always come to see the light park or come to town for the Hillbilly Fair. If we didn't have those things, we would dry up.
Ward II candidates:
Karen Dobbins, incumbent
Background: I graduated from Camdenton High School and Draughon's Business College. My early career was in all aspects of the banking business. I then worked for Lake Dental Clinic doing clerical and dental assistance. My husband and I own and operate Dobbins Construction Company. After Dick and I were married, I was active in the business end of Dobbins Construction. I was also instrumental in getting the Dollar General Store into our area and thus we built the building that now houses Dollar General.
Community Involvement: I am a native to this area. I grew up in Camdenton, but have lived in Laurie for the past 36 years. Through the years I have been active in Beta Sigma Phi, Rotary Club, Lake Bloomers Garden Club and Master Gardners. I have worked many hours with the Laurie Bar B Q Contest, the Hillbilly Fair, Enchanted Village of Lights, Loving Hands Preschool Board member, Clear (Community Leaders Educating about Resistance) educating about the effects of underage drinking. I serve Camden County as an election official. I have been active in Ozark Chapel United Methodist Church for 38 years. I came here when business was really booming. That was when we built the Laurie Terrace Mall. I have seen many changes to Laurie over the years. I knew and loved many of the pioneers that really worked hard to make Laurie what it is today. Laurie is a wonderful place to raise a family. I was elected two years ago to be your Alderman for Ward 11. It has been a real learning experience. With the downturn of the economy, it has been a real challenge to keep the budget in the black. We have accomplished that! I am now on the Laurie Enhancement Committee where we are beginning to look at ways of making our little city more family friendly and more beautiful. By working with grants, we are hoping to make some wonderful improvements to our city such as sidewalks, bike paths and better lighting thru town.
Family: Dick and I have 5 children that were raised here and went to school at Morgan County RII School.
Vote for me because: I do believe our present board have worked well together. I was
elected two years ago, to LISTEN to you! So now again, I will let your voice be heard,
if on Tuesday, April 2nd , you vote for me! I will do my best to make Laurie a better place to live.
I am running because: I want my little city to prosper and succeed and GROW!
What is the most critical challenge for the city?
I believe the downturn in economy is critical. Seems like we have lost so many good businesses these past few years. I want to see that turn around again with all kinds of new businesses popping up so much so that we have to extend our city limits I would like to see more families, young and old alike be welcomed in to our city. We do have a wonderful community with so much to offer: Fairground, Ball Park, Swimming Pool, Senior Center, beautiful lake all around us. Let's just work to keep it that way.
Chris Jackson
Background: Graduated in 1992 from Smith Cotton High School in Sedalia, Mo. and attended classes at Central Missouri State University. He is now the golf course superintendent at Indian Rock Golf Course.
Community Involvement: Helped with the rebuilding of the Laurie softball field.
Family: Recently married to Lauri on Jan. 16
Vote For Me Because: I am a 14 year resident of Laurie with 14 years experience as the Indian Rock Golf Course Superintendent. I possess a strong work ethic with particular attention to detail. I am direct, but open minded, and feel that my level headed way of thinking, common sense, and problem solving skills, make me a great candidate for this position. I appreciate the opportunity for running for Alderman and look forward to working closely with community leaders and patrons.
I am running because:
I believe in supporting our local businesses in order to help them thrive and succeed. I feel that it is important to explore the reasons why various businesses have closed or relocated to different areas. We need to work together as a community to find a solution and incentives to keep local businesses operating at a profitable level and to bring new businesses into our area.
What is the most critical challenge for the city?
Budget planning is going to be a key element in making our community appealing and successful to both local area patrons and our new and returning families and friends. I am confident that my budgeting experience over the past 14 years as the Indian Rock Golf Course Superintendent will be essential in the development of a workable budget for our community.


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In his first press conference since winning re-election, U.S. President Barack Obama said that he expects that a comprehensive immigration reform bill will be introduced "very soon" after his inauguration.
Recognizing the key role Latinos played in his re-election and the increasing growth of the Hispanic community in the U.S., Obama said any legislation should make permanent the administrative changes he made earlier this year that allow some young undocumented immigrants to remain in the country under the Deferred Action policy. The initiative by the Obama administration gives a two-year reprieve from deportation to undocumented immigrants brought o the country as minors.
"This is the fastest-growing group in the country," Obama said. "You're starting to see a sense of empowerment and civic participation that I think is going to be powerful and good for the country."
There should be a pathway for legal status for those who are living in this country, are not engaged in criminal activity are here simply to work.
- U.S. President Barack Obama
"It is why I am very confident we can get immigration reform done," he added.
During his 2008 presidential campaign, Obama promised immigration reform, but besides announcing the Deferred Action initiative in June his administration made little headway on the issue. His inaction on immigration reform was played up heavily by presidential candidate Mitt Romney during this year's campaign season. But Romney's hard-line stance toward illegal immigration during the GOP primaries hindered his efforts to gain favor among Latinos and helped Obama win 71 percent of the Hispanic vote, compared with Romney's 29 percent, according to a Fox News poll.
Claiming he planned to "seize the moment," Obama said that a bipartisan bill needs to provide a pathway to legal status for the millions of undocumented immigrants residing in the country who have no criminal record.
"There should be a pathway for legal status for those who are living in this country, are not engaged in criminal activity, are here simply to work," Obama said. "It's important for them to pay back taxes, it's important for them to learn English, it's important for them to potentially pay a fine, but to give them an avenue where they can resolve their legal status here in this country is very important. "
Calling immigration a non-partisan issue, Obama said that with their recent defeat in the race for the White House, Republicans are starting to reflect on the role Latinos played in the election and what that that means in terms of the future of immigration reform.
"This has not historically been a [partisan] issue," Obama said. "We've had President (George W.) Bush and (Arizona Senator) John McCain and others who have supported comprehensive immigration reform in the past, so we need to seize the moment. "
Despite the hard-line stance taken by the GOP during the primaries, and to a lesser extent during the presidential campaign, Bush's administration took a relatively softer approach to undocumented immigrants.
"The universe of opportunities to exercise prosecutorial discretion is large," Bush's immigration adviser William Howard wrote in a 2005 memo, according to Mother Jones. Howard added that the government should permit undocumented immigrants to stay in the country when "compelling reasons exist," such as the person who has a relative in the U.S. Armed Forces or for "sympathetic humanitarian factors."
Later in the press conference, Obama reaffirmed his stance that young people brought to the U.S. as children should be allowed to remain in the country.
"Obviously making sure that we put into law the first step we've taken administratively dealing with the DREAM Act kids is very important as well," he said. "One thing that I'm very clear about is that young people who are brought here through no fault of their own, who have gone to school here, pledge allegiance to our flag, want to serve in our military, want to go to school and contribute to our society, that they shouldn't be under the cloud of deportation."
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By DAVE LEDER
News staff writer
Calling all gymnasts, tumblers and aspiring acrobats young and old. There's a new club in town.
New to some, anyway.
Gorge Gymnastics, formerly known as Hood River Gymnastics Center, has entered a new era after establishing itself as the preeminent training center in the Columbia River Gorge.
In addition to training future Olympic hopefuls on the pre-team and compulsory team, Gorge Gymnastics offers programs to nearly 250 people of every age and ability level, from toddlers to adults.
The gym, located in the Hood River Sports Club at 1330 Brookside Dr., is open to anyone and attracts participants from Cascade Locks to The Dalles; White Salmon to Stevenson.
Due to the gym's rapidly growing popularity in the region, gymnastics director Amber Bardin helped organize a contest this fall to rename and develop a new logo. Over 60 entries were collected, and after the staff chose a top three, Sports Club ownership selected Gorge Gymnastics as the winner.
"We wanted to change the name to identify with all the communities that participate in our program," Bardin said. "Plus, we wanted to highlight both the recreational and competitive programs for newcomers."
Three of the school's future stars — Kaela Van Swaay (Intermediate II), Claire Rawson and Kayla Van Hoose (Intermediate I) — collaborated on the new name and logo with compulsory team members Jessica Strain and Kaytlin Hughes.
As a reward for their artistic contributions, the five gymnasts received $150 in gymnastics tuition that they will divide among themselves.
Even before the contest, Bardin has been introducing progressive changes to the gym since she took over as gymnastics director in May. Prior to becoming director, she helped coach the Junior Olympians for four years with girls' head coach Steve Roney.
Bardin, Roney, Lara Dunn and others have worked tirelessly with local talents like Strain (13) and Hughes (11) to prepare them for national-level competitions.
"There are a lot of very talented kids in the area," said Roney, who has coached competitive gymnastics for 35 years. "A lot of it is attributed to equally talented parents, but most of the kids are natural athletes who are involved in everything."
Strain and Hughes recently earned United States Gymnastics Association Level 7 certification at a meet in October. They are two of the finest young gymnasts in the area and are working toward becoming USGA national gymnasts.
Strain, Hughes and all the team members must practice at the gym 10-15 hours per week to master competitive maneuvers such as back layouts and tucks on the floor, walkovers on the balance beam, and "giants" on the uneven bars.
"The long-term goal for many of our kids is to become an Olympian," Roney said. "The younger they get involved, the faster they learn what it takes."
But despite the enrollment of 19 pre-team and team-level kids, not everyone at Gorge Gymnastics is involved in the program for the competition.
The majority of students participate in recreational classes, ranging from beginner to intermediate to advanced recreational. There are also more than 20 preschool class times Monday through Friday, and an adult introductory class every Wednesday that has six full-time students.
All classes offer excellent teacher to student ratios (six to one for toddlers; eight to one for others) and provide a top-quality, hands-on learning environment.
"We have a huge enrollment in spite of the town's size," Roney said. "Much of that is due to the programs we offer, but this gym is also one of the nicest facilities around."
Gorge Gymnastics offers all the major apparatuses, including balance beams, uneven bars, a spring-loaded floor, vault, parallel bars, and more tumbling mats than you can back-handspring over.
It also employs some of the finest instructors in the state, such as Leslie Pyfer, a former national champion and the number-one U.S. qualifier for the boycotted 1980 Olympics; Collin Godkin, the boys' team coach who competed on the senior national team four times; and Dunn, who is the assistant girls' team coach and adult recreational instructor.
Gorge Gymnastics not only helps out students but also their parents by sponsoring a Parents Night Out the second Saturday of each month, as well as birthday party packages. If you have questions about any Gorge Gymnastics class or promotion, call Bardin at 386-3230.
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Media Advisory: Jersey Gardens Mall Hosts Ceremony To Award State's Top Military Awards To Veterans On Tuesday
Media Advisory: Lt. Gov. Guadagno To Celebrate With Volunteers For Their Service To Vineland Veterans Home
Media Advisory: Mission Of Honor Committal Ceremony At State Veterans Cemetery
Media Advisory: Menlo Park Veterans Home To Honor Hundreds Who Donated Thousands Of Hours
Media Advisory: Dozens Of Volunteers Celebrated For Service To Paramus Veterans Home
Media Advisory: New Jersey Guardsmen To Return Home From Afghanistan Deployment
Media Advisory: Former American Legion State Commander To Address Youth Challenge Graduates
Media Advisory: State Military Honors To Be Awarded In Deptford
Media Advisory: Army Guard Pilots Depart For Southwest Asia
Di Micco Assumes Command Of 108th Mission Support Group
Media Advisory: Veterans To Receive State Medals At Bridgewater Commons Mall
Media Advisory: Lt. Gov. To Assist With Presenting State Military Medals At Quaker Bridge Mall
Media Advisory: New Jersey Guardsmen Say Goodbye Before Afghanistan Deployment


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KHARTOUM, Sudan (AP) — Sudan's deadly street riots, provoked by a near-doubling of fuel prices, highlight a problem that has become critical across the Middle East — the subsidies that for decades have kept down the cost of basic needs for societies where poverty is rife.
They pose a growing challenge to governments in the region, particularly in the aftermath of the Arab Spring uprisings. Fuel and food subsidies have become increasingly unaffordable, taking huge bites out of national budgets, and international lenders want to see such spending scaled back, but governments fear violent backlash.
The elimination of Sudan's fuel subsidies last week hiked the price of such basics as bread, cooking gas and bus fares. The result was the worst unrest in the capital Khartoum in two decades, with a harsh government response and dozens reported killed.
Many Sudanese worry that their livelihood won't survive without subsidies.
A widowed mother of seven who sells tea and home-made custard on the streets of Khartoum said she has switched from cooking with gas to coal, but that overall "life has become unbearable."
Another vendor who had laid out colorful rings and necklaces on a sidewalk said his main challenge now was paying for transport, school fees and sandwiches for his three children. "There was nothing like this before," the tall, slim man said of Sudan's economic crisis, glancing nervously at a bank guard nearby.
Both vendors spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of getting caught up in the government's crackdown.
Critics say the government has mismanaged the economy, using up resources during an oil boom while investing little in education, hospitals or agriculture. Sudan took a further hit with the secession of oil-rich South Sudan in 2011 while fighting rebels on three fronts. Faced with empty coffers and spiraling inflation, the government was finally forced to hit subsidies.
A gallon (3.8 liters) of diesel went from eight Sudanese pounds ($1.81) to 14 pounds ($3.18); a gallon of gasoline from 12 pounds ($2.70) to 21 pounds ($4.70); and a canister of cooking gas from 14 pounds ($3.20) is now 25 pounds ($5.60).
The case of Sudan, a vast country with one of the world's poorest populations, is perhaps extreme. But the problem is widespread.
In 2011, half the world's pre-tax energy subsidies, or $240 billion, were spent in the region's 19 countries, according to the International Monetary Fund. Subsidies gobble up one-third of Egypt's $84.5 billion budget, according to domestic figures, and the IMF says the Arab world's most populous country spends three times as much on energy subsidies as on education.
"Across the Arab world, there is increased addiction to these subsidies," said Farah Halime, editor of the regional blog Rebel Economy. "It's very difficult to tell a nation that we are going to take these away, even if it means that it will benefit the people who really need it."
Big subsidies were long a part of the Arab world's social contract, buying social peace in the absence of political freedom and economic opportunity.
But job creation lagged far behind population growth and helped drive the protests that erupted in 2011, toppling rulers in Tunisia, Egypt, Libya and Yemen, igniting civil war in Syria and rattling governments in Jordan and the Gulf.
Many hopes have since been dashed, particularly those for jobs and economic reform.
In Egypt, neither President Mohammed Morsi of the Muslim Brotherhood, elected in 2012, nor the military that toppled him a year later, has tackled the subsidies, seen as a major obstacle to economic recovery.
Critics say blanket subsidies benefit the wealthy more than the poor, divert public funds from health, education and welfare and encourage overconsumption and corruption. Subsidized food is often traded on the black market or wasted.
Reformers say subsidy cuts should be coupled with targeted support for the poor and warn that without such a buffer, poverty could increase sharply.
For example, Egypt's official poverty rate of 25 percent of the country's 85 million people could rise to 34 percent without food subsidies, according to a study by the World Food Program and the International Food Policy Research Institute. And some nongovernmental estimates put the number of poor already at 40 percent or more.
Aida Mohamed, a 52-year-old widow who earns $115 a month as a postal worker, said she depends on subsidized rice, cooking oil and sugar to make ends meet, because she already spends $20 on rent and $72 on market-price food.
The economies of the region's richer oil-exporting countries in the Gulf are also distorted by subsidies, though they face less urgency than the poorer oil-importing countries to cut spending.
Jordan, Morocco and other oil importers have begun trimming subsidies.
Last year, defying unusually violent protests and even calls to oust the king, Jordan eliminated virtually all fuel and gas subsidies, switching to cash payments to the neediest. Flour, animal feed, water and electricity are still being subsidized, but the government is considering cuts there as well.
Under Jordan's new system, high school teacher Khalifeh Awadallah, 40, gets an annual cash rebate of $382 to make up for increased bus fares and the higher price of cooking gas.
Most of the family's $1,000 monthly income goes on school fees and the mortgage.
In Sudan, a country of 38 million people, the government had been promising since January to increase minimum wage and public sector salaries. After last week's riots it announced one-time aid payments of $21 each to 500,000 families and said it would make good on the promised salary hikes.
The cuts, said Abdel-Rahman al-Khidri, the governor of the Khartoum district, were "bitter medicine needed for treatment and recovery."
Laub reported from the West Bank. Associated Press writers Tony Gabriel and Sarah El Deeb in Cairo and Mohammed Daraghmeh in Ramallah, West Bank contributed to this report.


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PHOENIX (AP) — A prosecutor hammered Jodi Arias on Tuesday as he worked to poke holes in her numerous stories in the murder case against her, pointing out how she once said the victim blessed the world by his presence and then portrayed him on the witness stand as a violent, womanizing sexual deviant.
Arias has testified for 11 days about how her one-time lover, Travis Alexander, was a controlling, abusive man who persuaded her to perform raunchy sex acts, beat her, once choked her into unconsciousness and constantly berated her, calling her a "whore" and other names.
Yet prosecutor Juan Martinez noted Tuesday how she told authorities, media, friends and family that Alexander was a great person who treated her well, pointing out text messages she sent him just months before she killed him — she says in self-defense.
"Travis, I thank you for being such an amazing friend. You are a rock, a light and an inspiration," Arias wrote. "I love you dearly."
Martinez remarked how these messages were sent after Arias says Alexander had been physically abusive on numerous occasions.
"This is not in line with the person you have been talking about, is it?" Martinez prodded.
"Yes, it is very consistent with how he was," Arias replied.
"You've been telling us before how he was mean?" Martinez remarked.
"Yes, he also was that," Arias said softly.
She is set to resume testimony Wednesday.
Martinez questioned Arias repeatedly over her numerous lies throughout the investigation. She first told authorities, friends and family that she had nothing to do with Alexander's death. She later blamed it on masked intruders before settling on self-defense.
Arias even sent flowers to the victim's grandmother after she killed him, expressing sympathy for her loss, and attended his memorial service about 10 days after his death. She previously testified she had been working on an alibi to throw off suspicion and avoid being charged, and she was too scared and ashamed to tell the truth.
At the service, Arias wrote in an album for Alexander's family how he was "beautiful on the inside and out."
"This world has been blessed because you have been here," she wrote.
Testimony at times Tuesday turned into a one-sided shouting match between Arias and Martinez over memory problems, with Arias saying his aggressive demeanor and posture was causing her to forget crucial details or provide concise answers.
"I'm not having a problem telling the truth," Arias said softly.
"But you are having a problem answering my questions, right?" Martinez snapped back.
Arias said the prosecutor's anger was confusing her.
In stark contrast to her testimony under questioning by her own lawyers, during which she alternated between poise and tears and recalled precise details of practically her entire life dating back years, Arias recalls virtually nothing under questioning by Martinez.
She often responds to his questions by saying, "sure," to which Martinez loudly snaps backs that he is looking for a yes or no answer.
The barbs have led to numerous private conferences between attorneys and the judge as defense lawyers repeatedly object to Martinez's aggressiveness, accusing him of badgering the witness.
Arias is charged in the June 2008 death of Alexander in his suburban Phoenix home. She says she dated him for about five months before breaking up but continued to see him for sex up until the day she killed him. She says she was forced to fight for her life after Alexander attacked her, but police say she planned the attack in a jealous rage. Testimony began in early January.
Arias has said Alexander invited her to his Mesa home on the day of the killing for sex. His body was found about five days later. He had been shot in the head, suffered 27 stab and slash wounds and his throat was slit.
Of the day of Alexander's death, Arias says he was in a rage, body slamming her and chasing her around his home. She said she grabbed a gun from his closet, and fired it as they tussled, but doesn't recall stabbing him. She says she remembers putting a knife in the dishwasher and disposing of the gun in the desert as she drove from Arizona to see a man in Utah, where she spent the night in his bed kissing and cuddling as she worked to create an alibi and avoid suspicion.
Arias' grandparents reported a .25 caliber handgun stolen from their Northern California house about a week before the killing — the same caliber used to shoot Alexander — but Arias says she knows nothing about the burglary. She says she brought no weapons to Alexander's home on the day she killed him, undercutting the prosecution's theory of premeditation.


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