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Monday, July 30, 2012
"...'Weekend At Bernie's' Lovers Need Not Apply..."
First, to each their own.
Second, opinions are, as the oldie but goodie goes, like ***holes...everybody has one and each one is different.
So, this piece isn't meant to be a review.
For all the aforementioned reasons.
Not to mention I haven't seen the movie.
All I've seen is the trailer.
Which I offer here for your perusal.
As I said, this is not a review.
That said, I respectfully offer an opinion.
Based on the trailer, my guess is that this will be a very talked about film.
Whether it is "critically" lauded remains to be seen.
Not that that matters, of course.
And audience acceptance is, of course, also a matter of speculation at this moment.
The movie could be heralded as "the" film of 2012.
Much as "The Matrix" was heralded in its time.
Or it could be pilloried as an overblown, crushingly disappointing case of motion picture masturbation.
Much as "The Matrix Revolutions" was in its time.
All of that considered and notwithstanding, here's the only thing I'm really sure of at this point.
If your sensibilites are such that you find "Jersey Shore" a "must see" each week and are faithfully committed to "Keeping Up With The Kardashians", then don't waste your time on "Cloud Atlas".
Because, trust me, you won't come within a country mile of getting it.
Posted by Scott Edward Phelps at 6:44 PM No comments:
Saturday, July 28, 2012
"...When The Chafing Dish Calls The Chicken Pot Black..."
To wit....
My own theology makes me a subscriber, in large measure, to the school of live and let live, located on the corner of mind my own business and do unto others, in the little house made of glass where I usually refrain from stone casting.
As a result, I simply don't believe that homosexuals are going to be cast down with the sodomites and burn in eternal damnation.
Personally, I'm inclined to think that their predispostion to worshipping Liza Minelli and/or Michael Buble' is punishment enough, but that's another blog for another day.
And, without intending to invoke the tired, cliche, insincere "some of my best friends are" clause, the truth is that some of my best friends are gay.
Loving, caring, beautiful people who honor me with their friendship and that I am proud to know and proud to call friend.
Now, enough of the lovin', let's get down to brass tacks.
Or copper. Brass is so tacky and just doesn't have the same sheen, don't you think?
If the owner of Chick Fil A wants to be opposed to gay marriage, its his right and privilege as a human being to do so.
And if gays want to opt for taking a pass on the poultry in response to that opposition, then ditto.
But all this raging, angry bitch slapping bitching from the gay community is, at the rock bottom core of it, nothing more than the very same intolerance that they are angrily bitch slapping bitching about.
And, not for nothin', but here's something the more militant would, in my humble o, be well served to consider.
One of the reasons that the more unenlightened heterosexuals oppose you is because they are afraid of you.
And one of the reasons they are afraid of you is because you too often go way beyond the pale when it comes to standing up for your rights.
To the point of trying to cram it down their throats.
So to speak.
Unasked, I respectfully offer, to all gays reading this piece, the following solution to the whole batter fried broohaha.
Be who you are. Be proud of who you are. Live and let live.
And if you feel like you can't, in good conscience, patronize a retail establishment that doesn't hold with your particular values....
...then don't buy the damn chicken.
But, seriously, girls, quit yer bitchin'.
It's really not one of your more attractive qualities.
And don't tar me with the brush that equates eating Chick Fil A with being unsupportive of the gay community.
Let alone feather me.
Because it doesn't come close to setting you apart.
It makes you exactly like one of them.
Posted by Scott Edward Phelps at 3:40 PM No comments:
"...In Honor Of An Outstanding Career...Give Or Take..."
Not so much.
New York (CNN) -- Built into the by-laws of most sports Halls of Fame is something called a "character clause."
It's a loosely-defined metric meant to gauge whether a potential Hall of Famers' off-the-field conduct should prevent an athlete or coach from being honored.
The rules use words like integrity, sportsmanship and community to determine whether a sportsman or woman can be inducted into the prestigious club.
But once that tribute is bestowed and a Hall of Famer made, can it be rescinded and undone?
"It would be unprecedented," said Brad Horn, a spokesman for the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York.
"I suppose they could," added Rick Leddy of the body that governs the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame.
That question is now being tossed around about the late Joe Paterno, a college football Hall of Famer since 2007.
Officials at the professional basketball, football, baseball and collegiate basketball and football Halls of Fame say it's never happened before.
While governing-bodies may use the clause to keep out candidates, once inducted, a Hall of Famer's status is historically safe.
But this week's "unprecedented" NCAA sanctions against Penn State for its handling of a child sex abuse scandal threaten to shake that very bedrock and raise questions of whether Paterno will be removed from its ranks.
"The question is 'What do you want your Hall (of Fame) to stand for?' " said Sports Illustrated's Andy Staples, a college football writer.
"Is there a character component to it?"
An internal review found the former head coach could have stopped Jerry Sandusky's sexual attacks against young boys had he done more, and that he may have known more than what he initially told the grand jury.
Vestiges of the Paterno legacy, once an enduring symbol of integrity, have since vanished amid the scandal.
Within a two-day span this week, his famous bronze statue in front Beaver Stadium was hauled down, as was his record atop major college football's all-time wins list.
The NCAA wiped more than a decade's worth of Penn State wins from the record books, slapped the school with a four-year postseason ban and imposed a $60 million sanction after investigators blamed top university leaders, including Paterno, for their "total and consistent disregard" of victims while a sexual predator lurked on campus.
"This egregious behavior not only goes against our rules and constitution, but also against our values," said Ed Ray, Oregon State president and chairman of the NCAA's executive committee.
Paterno's official record moved from 409 wins to 298, dropping to him to 12th on the NCAA college football coaching list, while also vacating six bowl wins and two conference championships.
The College Football Hall of Fame board has not indicated its thinking on Paterno in the wake of the scandal or the release of the findings.
"We're very aware of all of this," said Steve Hatchell, president and CEO of the National Football Foundation, the Hall's governing body.
"Our group is very methodical," he said, when asked if the group was considering Paterno's removal, adding that board members are expected to meet in early October.
"Everything's taken into consideration."
In 2007, the group inducted a still actively coaching Paterno alongside Florida State's Bobby Bowden, amending rules that required a candidate to be retired to qualify.
The Hall currently says in his biography, "No coach has been as synonymous with one school as has Penn State's Joe Paterno."
"More important than all of the wins and titles he has accumulated may be his legacy with the influence he has had on his players, Penn State Students and alumni," it reads.
In 1992 and 2006, the foundation awarded him the Distinguished American and the Gold Medal awards.
Although the board hasn't indicated its thinking, students at Penn State now offer mixed impressions about the prospect of yet another trace of their former coach wiped from the public sphere.
"I don't think they should remove him (from the Hall of Fame)," said Tierra Brisco, a 21-year-old Penn State senior.
"Well, I don't know," she then wavered. "That's a touchy subject. He built up our school. He was a philanthropist and he did a lot for us. ... But he should have done more."
The issue has again put front and center the question of whether sports figures, often lauded as heroes, should be judged in the annals of sports history by way of their off-the-field conduct.
In Major League Baseball, sports writers with the Baseball Writers Association of America vote not only for athletic prowess, but also on a player's "integrity, sportsmanship, character, and contributions to the team(s)."
Banned from baseball amid World Series fixing and gambling scandals, White Sox great "Shoeless Joe" Jackson and the league's all-time hits leader Pete Rose are barred from even being considered.
But at the National Football League, voters decide based solely on what happened on the field.
"People asked us during the O.J. Simpson trial, that if he were convicted, would he be kicked out?" said Joe Horrigan, a vice president for communications at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.
"The answer is simple: No."
Players and coaches' behavior outside-the-lines doesn't change what got them inducted, Horrigan explained.
In college, the rules are different.
While football coaches must boast at least a 60% winning percentage and have coached for a minimum of 10 years and 100 games, candidates must also demonstrate a laudable "post-football record as a citizen."
"He must have proven himself worthy as a citizen, carrying the ideals of football forward into his relations with his community and his fellow man with love of his country," according National Football Foundation website.
Those standards for years kept out Billy Cannon, a 1959 Heisman Trophy-winner from Louisiana State University, who was nominated in 1983 before his arrest and confession to a $6 million counterfeiting scheme.
The scandal rocked LSU and prompted the foundation to rescind his membership bid before induction.
But a quarter of a century later, the former running back-turned dentist was offered a second chance and formally inducted in 2008.
Others like ex-New York Giants star Lawrence Taylor, a Chapel Hill stand-out who last year pleaded guilty to sexual misconduct, have not gained entry to the club despite appearing on the ballot.
Meanwhile, Sandusky -- a former assistant coach who continues to maintain his innocence -- awaits sentencing for sexually abusing minors over a 15-year period.
Some of the abuse occurred in the same campus building where Paterno worked, according to the findings of former FBI Director Louis Freeh and his team of investigators.
The Freeh report drew criticism for its lack of access to critical witnesses, including Paterno, who died in January.
His family also reminded the public that "Paterno has never had a hearing," and that tearing down his statute would "not serve the victims of Jerry Sandusky's horrible crimes or help heal the Penn State Community."
But the report -- albeit limited in scope -- shed new light on the scandal and raised questions about whether Paterno's marred legacy will affect his spot among gridiron greats.
Nicknamed "JoePa," fans adored him for a storied coaching career that brought Penn State football to national prominence.
But the university's board of trustees fired Paterno in November 2011 following a 46-year career because his "decision to do his minimum legal duty and not to do more to follow up constituted a failure of leadership."
Paterno reported to his superiors a child sex abuse incident in a university shower that involved Sandusky in 2001, but did not inform police.
His ouster prompted student riots, overturning a news van and clashing with police, who used tear gas to break up throngs of angry protesters.
Since then, material reminders of that legacy have faded.
At State College, the name of a popular football camp-out is now called "Nittanyville," rather than "Paternoville," and a famous local mural no longer shows a halo painted above the image of the school's former head coach.
But it's unclear whether Paterno's place in the Hall of Fame will go the way of his famed 900-pound bronze statute removed from the university earlier this week, a structure that once exuded a sense of permanence that greeted fans at Penn State.
Any good stock broker will tell you that the key to successful buying and selling is keeping emotion out of it.
Cue that "meltdown" scene in "Wall Street" when Bud Fox tells Gordon Gekko "remember, Gordon, you taught me to keep personal feelings out of it".
Admittedly, and inevitably, putting feelings aside when it comes to sports, let alone college sports, is tantamount to paying no attention to the five hundred pound canary sitting on a perch in the corner.
That said...
Given the information that has come to light as regards his participation, or lack of, in dealing with Jerry Sandusky, the question of Joe Paterno deserving, or not, a place in the Hall of Fame is pretty much easily answered by employing a simple criteria.
If membership in that Hall Of Fame is solely symbolic of an indivdual's accomplishments, primarily statistical, during the course of their professional career, then Paterno earned it, deserved it and deserves to stay.
If, on the other hand, membership in that Hall Of Fame is a recognition of statistical achievement, combined with exemplary success in setting a high standard for not only performance, but attitude, contribution and, most applicable here, principle, not to mention extraordinary effort and success at being a role model, then any reasonable assessment would indicate that Paterno's plaque be put in that same U Stor It his statue now calls home.
Despite what the passionate JoePa-ists would like us to think, entry to the Hall Of Fame is not a one way only laundry chute.
It is, in fact, a door that can, if not easily, then, at least, if necessary, swing both ways.
Posted by Scott Edward Phelps at 7:15 AM No comments:
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
"...Protecting Your Rights.....Doing What's Right.....You See, They're Not Necessarily The Same Thing..."
When someone swings something in our direction, we instinctively react by flinching.
When someone or something assaults our psyche, we instinctively react by a different kind of flinching.
Knee jerking.
The knee jerk reaction to the horrific assault on our psyches in Colorado is yet another popping off of the lid on the jar labeled "Gun Control Debate".
Any reasonable person can see merit on both sides of the almost cliche' argument between those who believe stricter gun control laws would prevent future slaughters and those who believe otherwise and, moreover, stand firm and tall against any infringement on their rights to bear arms.
As seems so often to be the case these days, I find myself pretty firm and tall in the middle.
Those who idealistically, and, yes, naively, believe that more regulation will generate more protection are, obviously, both idealistic and naive.
It brings back into fashion that oldie but goodie "when guns are outlawed only outlaws will have guns."
On the other hand, though, those whose knee jerks suffciently to result in a full throated defense of the romantic, traditional, but equally naive "constitutional right to bear arms" are, obviously, romantic, traditional and, yes, naive.
Let me offer up a boiled down to basics perspective here.
Given that Americans continue to believe that their individual "rights" are sacrosanct, even at the expense of common sense and given that the NRA/gun lobby in this country virtually assures that any effort, commonly sensible or not, to curtail the manufacture and sale of guns in this country will be, forgive, shot down from the get go, it's a fool's errand to suggest, let alone, promote any serious kind of additional restriction on hand guns and/or rifles, the kind of weapons that reasonable people could argue have practical civilian uses, such as home protection, hunting, etc.
Begrudgingly, so be it.
That said, here's a thing.
Assault weapons, such as the AR 15 that James Holmes chose as his opening act and that were banned until the recent expiration of that ban, have one, singular purpose and function.
To fire as many bullets as quickly as possible.
Less a weapon, more a killing machine.
And effective as all giddyup as Holmes and his fellow infamous wack jobs have so tragically proven.
So, hype, flag waving hysterics, political and/or corporate agendas and full throated advocacy of "rights" notwithstanding, what reasonable person could stand against a resumption of the ban on those assault weapons?
The key word there, of course, is reasonable.
But here's the calm, considered opinion of an every day American citizen who believes passionately in individual liberty and would defend, to the death, your rights to same.
Let's stop wasting time suggesting, let alone actually debating, any additional legislation as regards hand guns and/or rifles.
And lets's all agree to join together in a resumption of the ban on assault weapons.
As far as "rights" go on that one, by the way?
I'd offer that your right to freely purchase a weapon that exists for no other reason than its ability to kill dozens of people in a matter of seconds is trumped by my family's right to be protected from somene as bat shit crazy as James Holmes...and as dumb fuck stupid as you.
And if you fall into the latter category and still resist any infringement of your "rights", try this...
Picture the cutest child in your family.
Picture them lying on a slab in the morgue with a bullet in their head.
Are you horrified?
I should think so.
Are you offended?
My apologies.
Do you finally get it?
For the love of God...and that kid...I sincerely hope so.
Posted by Scott Edward Phelps at 7:41 PM No comments:
Monday, July 23, 2012
"...And There's Some Court Thing Or Something Going On In, Uh...Colorado, I Think....But, Really, Do You Think Randy Will Stay?..."
Perusing today's spectacular headline news....
American Idol isn't giving up its diva power, with Mariah Carey landing as a judge as Jennifer Lopez departs.
Female 'Idol' contestants have been channeling Mariah Carey for years, so it's only fitting that the octave-defying diva is the talent show's newest judge.
Sponsored LinksCarey will join the judging panel for Season 12, Fox programming chief Kevin Reilly said Monday, confirming a deal with the pop and R&B star to a national gathering of television critics.
...when both CNN and Yahoo! both let this "breaking news" pop up in the middle of my perusal...
(CNN) -- Sally Ride, the first American woman to fly in space, died Monday after a 17-month battle with pancreatic cancer, her company said. She was 61.
"Sally lived her life to the fullest, with boundless energy, curiosity, intelligence, passion, commitment, and love. Her integrity was absolute; her spirit was immeasurable; her approach to life was fearless," read a statement on the website of Sally Ride Science, a company she started to help teach students -- particularly young women and girls -- about science, math and technology
I know, right?
When, oh, when are we ever going to get our priorities right again???
Makes one weep for all of mankind.
Oh...and who do you think the THIRD judge will be?
Posted by Scott Edward Phelps at 6:21 PM No comments:
Sunday, July 22, 2012
"...And, Of Course, There's That Whole Penn State, State Pen Thing..."
"...Penn State will remove statue of former coach Joe Paterno from outside stadium and place it in storage..."
This will, of course, reignite the debate.
Here's two cents.
Given what's known, removal is the reasonable thing to do.
That said, further denigration of the man and his memory is unseemly and unneccesary.
As is further celebration of them.
Here's a little irony.
Same thing happened to Jerry Sandusky.
Except his storage comes with three squares and a bunk.
Posted by Scott Edward Phelps at 8:03 AM No comments:
Saturday, July 21, 2012
"...Three Names...No Waiting..."
Not so fast.
Not those three.
(Reuters) - The family of suspected gunman James Eagan Holmes said on Friday their hearts go out to those involved in the Colorado movie shooting and asked for their privacy to be respected.
Twelve people were killed and 59 injured early on Friday when a gunman in a gas mask hurled a gas canister into the midnight showing of the new "Batman" movie in Aurora, a Denver suburb, and started shooting.
The 24-year-old suspect, who was taken into custody, was in the process of withdrawing from the graduate program in neurosciences at the University of Colorado Denver, a school spokesman said.
In San Diego, where Holmes' parents live, police Lieutenant Andra Brown read a statement from the family.
"Our hearts go out to those who were involved in this tragedy and to the families and friends of those involved. We ask that the media respect our privacy during this difficult time," it said.
"Our family is cooperating with authorities in both San Diego, California and Aurora, Colorado. We are still trying to process this information and we appreciate that people will respect our privacy."
Brown said Holmes had graduated from high school in San Diego but did not specify which school he attended.
Frankly, it took almost twenty four hours longer than I thought it would.
And I was more than a little surprised when the "suspect's" name first came to
James Holmes.
Something missing here, kids.
Something that appears, literally without fail, in any and all reports of any kind of shooting, most often, sadly, of the mass killing kind.
The middle name.
There's something about infamy, especially infamy of any or all caliber types, that seems to dictate that the suspect/perp, et al will be immediately and forever identified with his or her full name.
I'm not sure when that custom became customary (I'm sure a quick Google/Wikipedia romp would clear that fog, but breakfast is waiting and I've got things to do today), but, for me, childhood reading and/or experience taught me that infamous assassins were always indentified with a triple monniker.
John Wilkes Booth.
Lee Harvey Oswald.
Sirhan Bishara Sirhan.
James Earl Ray.
When it came to Presidential killers, as a matter of fact, even the wanna be's got the three title treatment.
Sara Jane Moore.
And nicknames were added, as necessary to complete the trifecta.
Lynette "Squeaky" Fromme.
Soon, even the more mundane, less historic, yet equally heinous wack jobs were good for three.
John Wayne Gacy.
And let's not forget some of the other oldies but goodies.
Mark David Chapman.
Osama Bin Laden.
Personally I suspect it all got started with one of the most famous of the infamous.
Jack The Ripper.
Although the whole thing may simply have resulted from some young, careless cub reporter failing to realize that "The" was, in fact, not a name.
Regardless of origin, the three name assignment has become traditional. And even allowing for the fact that the middle name may be included so as to spare, for example, hard working, everyday good guy James Ray from being confused with rifle totin, redneck assassin James Earl Ray, the point is still pointless.
Like there's not hundreds, even thousands of hard working, everyday good guys named James Earl Ray out there.
So, custom considered, imagine my surprise when an entire news saturated day passed with only James Holmes being pegged as the perp.
And imagine my smug head nod when, finally, this morning, I came across the aforementioned AP story that has now put everything right again.
James Eagan Holmes.
Because that middle name seems to matter.
Although I can't, for the life of me, imagine why.
Just ask one of the good guy James Earl Rays.
About still being confused with the rifle totin, redneck assassin James Earl Ray.
Who, by the way...
killed Martin Luther King.
Now what's that all about?
Makes no damn sense.
Or my name isn't Scott Edward Phelps.
Posted by Scott Edward Phelps at 9:59 AM No comments:
"...Where There's Smoke..."
Parallels between Batman film and the shooting
By The Associated Press | Associated Press – 10 hrs ago.
In "The Dark Knight Rises," a masked villain leads a murderous crew into a packed football stadium and wages an attack involving guns and explosives. It's just one of the more haunting scenes in what was one of the most anticipated movies in years.
There is no confirmed evidence so far that the motives of the assailant in the Aurora, Colo., killings on Friday had any specific link to "The Dark Knight Rises." New York City Police Commissioner Ray Kelly said he was told the gunman had painted his hair red and called himself the Joker, but Aurora police would not confirm that.
It's not clear why the shooter chose to enter the movie theater at 12:30 a.m., not far into the midnight screening that marked the film's opening day. Several survivors remarked on their initial confusion as the attack unfolded at seeing a masked figure silhouetted in a gaseous haze and the sounds of real gunshots mingling with the film soundtrack.
In superhero movies, violent attacks on the public by villains are key components of many plots, including "The Avengers" and "The Amazing Spider-man," both in theaters now. By Hollywood standards, the Batman movies are more grim than bloody. The Christopher Nolan-directed "Dark Knight" trilogy has been more dark than that of typical superhero films, taking a cue from the comic book series published by DC Comics, including "Detective Comics" and writer Frank Miller's gritty 1986 take on the character, "Batman: The Dark Knight."
There are general parallels to the Colorado shooting, "The Dark Knight" and the comic book character:
— Bruce Wayne's drive to become Batman arose from witnessing the deaths of his parents, Thomas and Martha Wayne, at the hands of small-time criminal Joe Chill, who shot and killed them after they had left a theater.
— A part of the Batman video game called "Arkham City" takes place in an abandoned movie theater (The Monarch, outside of which Bruce Wayne's parents were killed).
— In the "Dark Knight" graphic novel by Miller, the Joker slaughters the audience of a television talk show with gas.
— In the same book, a beleaguered man shoots up a porn theater after being fired from his job, killing three people with a handgun.
— "The Dark Knight Rises" features at least two scenes where unsuspecting people are attacked in a public venue: the stock exchange and a football stadium.
Prurient trivia aside, what is equally inevitable as experts and laymen alike fumble in their attempts to piece together the shards of this nightmare, hoping that the resulting mosaic will resemble something even close to decipherable, let alone understandable, is the discussion/debate on the effect that cultural violence has on those who are already predisposed to shatter our reality, be it violence in video games, TV shows, movies or anywhere/everywhere else that violence seems to appear in our lives for no better reason than it simply appears.
Sensitive souls who acutely feel and/or empathize with the loved ones of the victims of this carnage will, understandably, be able to see a cause and effect so obvious it will mystify them that others can't quite picture it.
Others, whose own gimbels work to keep them on an even keel somewhere between moral outrage and personal freedom, will offer that this shooting could have just as easily have happened at, for example, a Linday Lohan, as opposed to Batman, movie. (Although film purists would likely counter that, in that case, the shooter would most likely simply have turned the gun on himself to end the misery.)
And, then, there are the political agendists who will take whatever stand on whatever side of the issue they perceive will bring them the most button pushes, lever flips or chad pops come November.
Discounting the third because it comes saturated in self interest, I honestly find myself walking around in a neutral zone, of sorts, between the first two, my soul sufficiently sensitive and my other senses sufficiently inflamed by this assault on our humanity as to have a very clear picture of two plus two equalling four, while my fair play/not so fast meter clicks as a reminder that two plus two, more often than we would like to accept, does not, in fact, always sum up the same.
As the old saying maddeningly goes, we will, in the end, never really know.
We will never really know what possessed a seemingly bright, seemingly educated human being to cross the line from scholar to sociopath, from son to serpent, from man to monster.
One of the more insidious things about insanity is that, for all the blinding light the fire of mental illness casts on us, it leaves us, at the same time, in the dark as to where it came from, what caused it, what sparked it in the first place.
And while the knee jerk of angrily pointing a finger at the violence so readily available for the witnessing on the street, on the news, on TV, online and on movie screens is tempting, if only to give us the momentary illusion that, at least, there's something we can do about that which we can do nothing about, we know, when the tears end and the bodies are buried and the wheel starts turning again, that we simply will never know what lit the fire that made this man burn so many lives to the ground.
At the same time, along with the horrific images and heartbreaking stories pouring out of Aurora, one thought continues to haunt me this morning.
We know that movies don't cause insanity.
Just as we know that gasoline doesn't cause fires.
But we all know what gasoline does to the slightest hint of a flame already burning.
Posted by Scott Edward Phelps at 8:28 AM No comments:
Friday, July 20, 2012
"...And 'Bat Shit Crazy' Isn't Even Close To Funny, Either...."
And the insanity that manifested itself in that killing and injury, frankly, requires no other explanation than it is what it is.
That said, I think it important to offer what I shared on the air this morning as we talked about this incident.
At this moment, CNN and other media outlets are "headlining" the story in, give or take a varation, pretty much the same fashion.
While intending to neither defend or denigrate the film, the simple truth is that this crime against us is a massacre.
It is NOT, however, a BATMAN MOVIE massacre.
It could have just as easily, sadly, happened in a grocery store or sports arena or church or even a parking lot in Arizona where a talented member of Congress was greeting her constituents.
Insanity doesn't distinguish between time, place and/or opportunity.
That's why we call it insanity.
Adding "drama" to a story of this intensity is not only journalistically invalid and irresponsible, it is an emotional, even spiritual, obscenity inflicted on the loved ones of the victims.
"News" outlets who keep dealing the "Dark Knight" card are an embarrassment to the concept of legitimate journalism and should, by any reasonable interpretation, be deeply ashamed of themselves.
Bet the farm thety won't be.
And that, along with the carnage, is insanity.
Posted by Scott Edward Phelps at 10:24 AM No comments:
Sunday, July 15, 2012
"...In My Day, TV Signed Off Every Night And We Hated That....Today?...Might Not Be Such A Bad Idea...."
NEW YORK (AP) — Don Brinkley, a noted television writer and the stepfather of supermodel and actress Christie Brinkley, has died. He was 91.
A spokeswoman for Brinkley said her stepfather died on Saturday in Sag Harbor, N.Y.
Don Brinkley was a television writer and producer whose career spanned more than 50 years.
His credits included such 1950s and 1960s staples as "Wanted: Dead or Alive," ''The Untouchables," ''Ben Casey," ''Rawhide," ''The Fugitive," ''The Man from U.N.C.L.E." and "Medical Center."
In 1988, he was honored by the Museum of Broadcasting in New York.
He also was a journalist for CBS Radio News.
Admittedly, any piece written on the subject of television tempts the writer to take the obvious and, frankly, lazy tack of how the quality of one generation's work far surpasses the quality of subsequent generation's work.
The hidden subtext in almost any piece like that is, simply, "in my day....".
Attempting, at least, in some small measure to resist going there, I'll simply offer that one need only check out any of the aforementioned programs that Don Brinkley worked on (via Hulu, YouTube, etc) to see that the values portrayed, and the manner in which they were portrayed, are radically different from the values and portrayal of same in today's television presentations.
Whether you think that's good or bad depends entirely on your personal theology.
One man's meat and all that.
As for me, I'll spare you the long harangue that, subtextually, preaches "..in my day.." and simply offer this.
Television, regardless of personal tastes and preferences, is, arguably, very often simply a reflection of the values held by those during the times in which they live.
Two sad things here.
The Brinkley family's loss is certainly the other one.
Posted by Scott Edward Phelps at 8:16 AM No comments:
"...And It's Way Cool That She Doesn't Spell Connor With A 'K'...."
Hollywood, Florida (CNN) -- Connor Boss, the first legally blind contestant to compete for Miss Florida USA, was a top five finalist at the pageant Saturday but fell short of the title.
The crown went to Michelle Aguirre, Miss Broward County Fair USA.
But Boss, 18, who was diagnosed 10 year ago with a hereditary eye disease, isn't likely to lose too much sleep.
Before the contest, she said the older she gets the less importance she places on winning the crown.
"I've come to learn that it's not even about winning the pageants," she said. "I'm so glad that my story can be shared and that at least if I can inspire one person, I feel like I've won already."
It was a message she echoed during the interview portion of the competition Saturday night in response to what she would like to accomplish in the next year.
"I hope that I could inspire others that anything is possible. You can accomplish whatever you set your mind to, and I hope that they can really learn from my story and take that and apply it to their own lives," she said.
Ten years ago, Boss was diagnosed with Stargardt disease, a hereditary eye disease that caused her vision to get progressively worse.
"It affects my retina and my central vision, so my peripheral vision is intact," said Boss. "When I'm looking at people, I try and look around. People take me as being rude but it's hard for me to focus straight forward."
Focusing is not a problem for Boss when it comes to her goals. Boss, a freshman at Florida State University, graduated from high school with a 4.2 grade point average.
"All of her tests ended up being read to her, even the SAT and ACT for college were read to her," said her mother, Traci Boss. It was not only academia where Boss excelled; she was her high school senior class president and captain of the cheerleading squad.
During pageants, Boss is treated just like all the other contestants, but she must rely on her other senses to compensate for her poor eyesight.
In rehearsal, Boss pays close attention to where she needs to be on stage and how to get there.
"She'll actually say 'four steps here, step down four steps, step down,' " explained Miss Florida USA Executive Producer Grant Gravitt. "She'll memorize it."
Humor is also an important outlet for Boss when dealing with her disease.
"I find a lot of humor in it, the stupid stuff that I do, like running into things, tripping all the time over things that I cannot see," she said.
Although Boss is good at laughing off her missteps, she works very hard to avoid them, especially when she is on stage.
"I think she's different than any other girl but not because of her blindness," said Gravitt. "I just think that she's an awesome young lady that is really coming into the prime of her own."
And now...what's wrong with the world...
The reality show, fashion line, fragrance, yada, yada, blah, blah, blah don't have the name "Boss" on them
They have the name "Kardashian".
Posted by Scott Edward Phelps at 7:43 AM No comments:
Saturday, July 14, 2012
And, at the same time...
A surfer was bitten in half in a savage shark attack off Australia's west coast Saturday, witnesses and officials said, the fifth such fatality in the region in less than a year.
The man was surfing near Wedge Island, north of Perth, on Saturday morning with a friend when he was mauled by the shark, suffering severe and extensive injuries.
A man jet-skiing near the surfers said it was a gruesome scene, with "half a torso" all that remained of the victim.
"There was just blood everywhere and a massive, massive (great) white shark circling the body," he told ABC television, estimating the fish was four or five metres (13 to 16 feet) long.
"I reached to grab the body and the shark came at me on the jet-ski and tried to knock me off. I did another loop and when I came back to the body the shark took it."
Made infamous by the horror movie "Jaws", great whites are among the largest shark species in the world and can grow up to six metres long (20 feet) and weigh up to two tonnes.
Beach patrol officials confirmed that the attack was fatal, and a large-scale air, coast and sea search was underway for the remains of the victim, who was reported to be in his early 20s.
A police spokesman told AFP: "At this stage no remains have been located."
All beaches in the area were closed until further notice, and fisheries were hunting the shark in order to kill it.
"We'll go right through to nightfall tonight, we will then resume that tomorrow morning and make some decisions tomorrow," a fisheries spokesman said.
It was the fifth fatal shark incident off Western Australia since September -- an unprecedented spate of attacks that sparked calls earlier this year for a cull.
Local marine scientists have described Australia's west coast as the deadliest shark attack zone in the world, and a tagging and tracking programme has been launched in a bid to limit fatalities.
A sea kayaker narrowly escaped the jaws of a great white last month, with a friend managing to pluck him from the water after he was rammed by one of the marine predators off Perth's Mullaloo Beach.
That attack came just hours after another great white, thought to be five metres long, lunged from the water at a crab fisherman at a dive park south of Perth.
Sharks are common in Australian waters but deadly attacks are rare, with only one of the average 15 incidents a year typically proving fatal.
Experts say the average number of attacks in the country has increased in line with population growth and the popularity of water sports.
While even the hint of making light of the loss of someone's loved one, especially in such a horrific way, is a slippery slope, I couldn't help but be reminded, as I read this story, of something that I have shared with both friends and listeners of the radio show throughout the years that I think has some validity.
It occurs to me that an obvious, even glaring, point is never made when stories of fatal shark attacks are offered.
They all, without exception, take place in the ocean.
Here's a thought.
That's where sharks live.
Put another way, if I ever read of a fatal shark attack occuring in the lobby of a Hyatt Regency, then I'm going to be first in a line of many wanting to know what we should do to prevent any further injury or loss of life.
For now, though, it seems obvious what is required to, at least, reduce the chances that such a tragedy will occur again.
In retail, the expression is caveat emptor.
Buyer beware.
In this case, I think a little tweak will bring the point home.
Aequoris natator emptor.
Ocean swimmer beware.
Posted by Scott Edward Phelps at 7:31 AM No comments:
Friday, July 13, 2012
"...Like Pearl Harbor, Nov 22, 1963 and Sept 11, 2001, We'll Always Remember Where We Were When We First Heard The News..."
Jennifer Lopez called in to "On Air With Ryan Seacrest" today to tearfully confirm that she is leaving "American Idol." After two years as a judge on the reality TV show, she said, "The time has come."
The announcement comes just one day after Steven Tyler said that he will not return next season. There have been reports that Randy Jackson is stepping down as a judge, too, and that Mariah Carey is in talks to join as a judge.
J. Lo was conflicted about her decision, telling Seacrest (who hosts "Idol"), "It's been a long thought process. I really have been torn... but even last year, it was super tough to decide. Something has to give. That's where I am right now."
She added, "You know, I was really dreading this phone call with you. I honestly feel that the time has come that I have to get back to doing the other things that I do that I've put on hold because I love 'Idol' so much." She said, "I have to come back to, like ... you have a lot of other responsibilities and things that you do. You have to pay attention to do that, too. I just feel like we had an amazing run."
Seacrest responded, "You've made up your mind. If you are leaving the show, I'm sad, but I understand you've got to do what's best for you and your family."
Lopez added, "It's really going to be hard to go. It's one of those special things."
things worthy of tearful confirmation...
...the lack of proper healthcare for millions of Americans...
...the courage of the girl who lost hands, leg and foot in the zip line/flesh eating bacteria incident...
...that the Penn State hierarchy didn't act in time to save many young boys from being horrifically abused...
...sadness at the passing of such wonderfully iconic role models as Andy Griffith and Ernest Borgnine...
things not worthy of tearful confirmation...
...leaving a gig as host of a TV show to continue a multi million dollar career as singer, dancer and fashion line/fragrance hawker...
Makes you just wanna cry, doesn't it?
Posted by Scott Edward Phelps at 6:42 PM No comments:
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text:
AJ Buckley and Travis Wester, the hilarious and sweet actors who play Ed Zeddmore and Harry Spangler, "The Ghostfacers" were kind enough to answer a few of our burning questions!
OK, let's start with a little of your background. Travis, Where did you grow up?
Travis: The mean streets of Culver City. Nowadays it's all art galleries and Korean taco trucks or whatever but back then it was pretty scrappy around my neighborhood. You know how other people might have a hat rack? We had a chain rack. Never left home without a good chain to whip around. It was pretty gritty.
AJ, I see you were born in Dublin and immigrated to Canada. What were your childhoods like? I get the sense that you were both probably total comedians growing up.
AJ: I was always known as the jokester. From when I was nine.
Travis: My stepfather was the real comedian. Around the dinner table if I tried to be funny he'd stop me if I was bombing, give me some notes and let me try it again. Seriously. He told me that joke where you ask someone what the secret of comedy is and then you interrupt them by saying "timing" and it's stuck with me ever since.
Moving to a few of your past projects, Travis, can you tell us what it was like being on the original 90210?
Travis: Like being on the cover of People Magazine, only on the other side. And upside down.
And AJ, please tell us a little about being on The X-Files. (It is another favorite show of ours!)
AJ: It was great. I really liked working on the X-Files. It was one of my first professional gigs, got to work with a great director. I played two parts actually… one was a dude who got eaten alive by cockroaches and then I played Scully's brother.
Travis, Eurotrip is an amazingly funny movie. I imagine there was so much laughter on set. Which one scene was the hardest to complete?
Travis: Actually it was one that never made it into the movie. It was with Joanna Lumley from Ab Fab, and she was utterly cracking us up. I think we made it through once without someone in the cast falling out laughing and that was it, we moved on. It might be in the DVD extras or something; it's worth checking out if you have a copy. (Editor's note: I do and I will! I love Ab Fab!)
AJ, in addition to acting, you play the drums. How long have you played? And which do you think you are better at – the drums or acting?
I play a djimbe, not a kit. More of a congo/bongo type of thing. The feel of my palm slapping against the skin of the drum, not hitting it with a stick. Which am I better at? I suck at both.
Travis, besides acting, what other special talents do you possess?
Travis: Ear wiggling, cooking, babbling incoherently, climbing rocks.
AJ, can you tell us what it is like on the set of CSI Miami?
From what I know from my work on CSI New York, I can tell you that with crime scene procedures, big words and science. (Editor's note: Uh oh! Our bad! Never said we were perfect, but we sure as heck try! Big typo on our part! Very sorry, AJ! Forgive us?!)
Misha Collins told us "Ghostfacers" is his favorite Supernatural episode. We also love it! It is such an original, hilarious episode. You both did a fantastic job being the stars of that episode! How long did it take to film? And what do you like most about "Ed Zeddmore" and "Harry Spangler?"
AJ: I, Ed, like how Harry's hair looks. He makes it looks really cool and I wish I had hair like that.
Travis: I, Harry, enjoy being appreciated.
Did you two work together before Supernatural? You play so well off each other.
AJ: No, it was just love at first sight.
Travis: Crazy.
We really look forward to meeting you in Vancouver in August at the "Salute to Supernatural" convention! You both have been to a couple of conventions thus far. Do you enjoy them or simply think of them as a necessary part of the job?
AJ: It's great to get to meet so many fellow facers and continue the facer movement and get it going on a grass roots level. Shaking hands, kissing babies, facing ghosts. It's what we do.
What are some of your most played songs on your iPod?
AJ: John Legend, Sunhouse and Adele.
Travis: Glasvegas, the soundtrack to Pan's Labyrinth and Led Zeppelin
AJ, you have a production company called Fourfront Productions. What are some of your current projects?
AJ: First rule of Fight Club: Never talk…um. No seriously, we got a couple different web series we're developing right now, a couple TV shows. Stay tuned.
Travis, you have a very darling daughter. Take a moment to brag about her! What are some of her most endearing qualities?
Travis: She can sing "Good Morning Baltimore" note for freaking note, that's kind of cool. She's got a sense of humor already. When people laugh at her material, she always kind of chuckles and says "Hehe… I funny."
We'd love your recommendations on the following:
-Book you read recently
Travis: I'm just finishing a three year journey with the Baroque Cycle with Neal Stephenson. I started reading it just after I found out I was going to be a dad and am now just finishing System of the World, so there you go.
AJ: Many Lies, Many Masters
-TV program you can't miss
AJ: American Idol.
Travis: Battlestar Galactica, but after Season Three I got all confused so I started over so don't ruin it for me.
-Movie you saw at the theater or rented
AJ: Watchmen, rented Body of Lies (which was great).
Travis: I think Sunshine Cleaning was the last movie I saw in theaters because it was free at LACMA. At a theater is really the only time I can watch movies, otherwise I get all fidgety and start looking for something to do.
-Musical artist or band you love
AJ: Kings of Leon
Travis: Radiohead is so much better than all the other bands it's kind of weird.
-Restaurant you dined at
AJ: Cactus Club.
Travis: I think the last time I ate out was Shakey's Pizza.
Besides, acting, what are some of your life passions?
Travis: Measuring twice, cutting once. Telling jockers to quit jocking my style. Screaming out drunk death threats on people who use those red laser pointers in theaters.
AJ: GhostFacers, Ed and Harry… or just Harry.
In addition to Supernatural, where can we see you on-screen soon?
AJ: Skateland, a movie coming out in the Fall.
Travis: Try giving YouTube a shot.
We'll check those out for sure! Thank you both again! Ghostfacers forever!!!!!!!!!!
For more information on AJ and Travis, visit http://www.ajbuckley.net/ and http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0922563/. Also, AJ and Travis are on Twitter: @AjohnBuckley and @westerspace.

subset: commoncrawl


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Injury League vs Age of Teams – Week 40
Tottenham remain the youngest side in the Barclay's Premier League at 24.8, followed by Liverpool (25.6), Newcastle United (26.297), Southampton (26.354), Manchester United (26.376) and Arsenal (now 26.5). Manchester City are still the oldest side at 29.2, followed by Queens Park Rangers (28.7), West Bromwich Albion (28.429), Leicester City (now 28.3645), Everton (now 28.340), Crystal Palace (28.245) and Sunderland (28.198).
The number of injured players on the Injury League Table increased to 81 from 75 last week. Queens Park Rangers lead the number of injured players with 8 this week. Newcastle United continue to lead the Injury League with total of 341 man-weeks for the season.
There are no significant changes to injury age this week, as it is not unusual for the averages to settle at this point in the season.
The statistics are compiled as follows: The average age of each team as weighted by playing time is shown along the horizontal axis. The average age of each injured player comprising the Premier League Injury Table is shown along the vertical axis. The value in the current Premier League Injury Table is used for the relative size of each bubble.
All statistics are inclusive of Barclay's Premier League matches through 18 May, with injuries reported via The Physio Room thru 21.43 BST on 19 May.
The Premier League Injury Table can be found here, as well as in the sidebar.by


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Getty Images
All we want for Christmas is more funny Chrissy Teigen videos! The queen of humor recently made us all LOL with the latest clip she posted to Instagram. While the model has made a career out of looking good for the camera, that doesn't mean she doesn't sometimes have unplanned clumsy moments as well. And when she does, she's a good sport about them! Watch the video below to see why fans are laughing at Chrissy's latest video!
Oh, my gosh — we can't even deny that this had us cracking up. But, we're sure Chrissy is okay because of her comedic reaction and the fact that she posted it on social media. No damage was done to her or the baby. The video already has over four million views and three thousand comments — so, her fans definitely got a laugh from it too!
One follower wrote, "I'm so dead bc why was she so dramatic😂😂😂 ." While another added, "This gets funnier every time I watch it 😂 ." We love that Chrissy doesn't take herself too seriously and is able to have a good laugh (even when it's at her own expense). We hope to see more funny videos from her especially as she gets further along in her pregnancy!
More from Life & Style
Chrissy Teigen's Adorable Baby Bump Finally Made an Appearance on the Red Carpet!
Chrissy Teigen Has a Nip Slip on Snapchat and She's Sorry, OK!
Chrissy Teigen Just Gave Luna a Talking Elmo — and Her Reaction Is Priceless!


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Category Archive: Blog Bros.
While checking out two of my favorite blogs, Le Mouching and The Fiberglass Manifesto, it was brought to my attention that there's a relatively new online fly fishing magazine entitled The Mission. It a great piece of art that reminds me a lot of early This is Fly crossed with a quirky, indie vibe which is extra interesting since it's based out of South Africa (not Portland, OR or my own Austin, TX. as you might expect.) Check it out and see what you think, personally i love it.
Like that indie label you loved in the 90's that never sold out, SCOF continues to stay true to their roots while delivering epic photos, well thought out stories, unique layouts and a level of quirkiness that simply can't be imitated. Bonus? THEY ARE STILL FREE! In this day and age of money grubbing selfishness nothing could be more indie.
F'ing love these folks. Check them out at www.southerncultureonthefly.com.
Not only does Texas have some incredible fishing, it also has some amazing talents. One of those folks is Davis Finn James, an individual that is wildly adept behind a lens. Luckily for us Texas anglers he recently decided to share his fishing short "Come and Take It" with the public via Vimeo! It features fish, friends and some great camera and production work from Davis. Check it out on his Vimeo site and be sure to leave a comment there (trust me, people that work hard on stuff love to get feedback…wink, wink.)
I was pretty excited about the release of the new iPhone until i found out it was "kinda water resistant", now came in black (BORING!), and that they took away the headphone jack.
Then i was bummed.
That was until i opened my email today and read the following (from Howler Bros.)
Howler HQ is moving to another location and we need to clean house before we open our doors! This Thursday, Friday, and Saturday we are offering an assortment of never before worn gear starting at $5 with nothing over $25! Hats, jackets, tees, fleeces, shorts and more! Some classics, some never released items! You won't know what you will find until you come on down and see for yourself!
This does NOT apply to any online purchases. NO returns NO discounts NO checks!
If you live anywhere near Austin (as mentioned, it's in person only) and appreciate surfing and flyfishing inspired clothing you are really going to want to be there or this. You can bet that i'll be one of the first people through the door tomorrow, see you there.


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|View Poll Results: Would You Cross-shop Across Various Segments Before Putting Money Down?
|No. I would pick a segment first, and buy a car from that segment.
|Yes. I don't mind a car from any segment as long as it pulls my heart strings.
|Don't know/ Can't Say for sure.
|Voters: 345. You may not vote on this poll
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|1st September 2016, 22:31
Join Date: Oct 2014
Location: Noida
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Re: Did you cross-shop across segments while buying your car?
For me it has always been straight buys. The budget always came first, accordingly the segment, then the car. In the earlier years it used to be Maruti 800, then came the Santro, Esteem, Baleno in that order. Then CRV and Scorpio (both 2005, Scorpio had enticed me with the 2nd anniversary offer with my base model costing me under 5 lacs OTR). Till these years I always knew which model+variant I wanted to buy- so no visits to different showrooms. The confusion started manifesting when I was out to buy the Aveo (2010) and then Sunny (2012) for some secondary office duties. And now I am keen to buy a Crysta and even though I have visited Mahindra umpteen times in the last 2 months when Crysta could not be registered in NCR, I am just unable to keep my eyes of the Crysta. No other SUV/MUV is appealing to me in my budget. And yes, at least of now I am sure I will not be looking at a D segment sedan.
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|The following BHPian Thanks rajivrt for this useful post:
|2nd September 2016, 09:46
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Location: Noida, NCR
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Definitely cross shopped across segments. When shopping for a new car recently the active contenders were Vento TSI Highline and Creta petrol SX+. They cost almost the same without discount. Other than that they are totally different. I finally settled on the Vento because of elegance, engine refinement, ease of driving and build quality.
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|2nd September 2016, 10:22
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Car buying is a long way process and over the last couple of years looked at Thar, Vento TSi, Polo GT TSi, Honda city (petrol), Used Linea, newer Punto, Kwid, KUV, not selling at all and finally ended up buying the Abarth.
The Kwid and KUV were shortlisted by dad and I'm thankful for the highhanded attitude of dealers otherwise we'd never have a Punto Abarth.
Would like to say that Thar experience was way better (got long TD, at dealership and at home, good SA) than that of KUV.
VW was average, nothing too bad or too excellent. Fiat was in Pune but got a long TD when I went there. After all these experiences, I realised that the more a car sells, the worse service we get. The only exception to that is Maruti. Even though Maruti wasn't in contention, the service was way way better than most others.
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|3rd September 2016, 14:28
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Re: Did you cross-shop across segments while buying your car?
Always shopped around shamelessly with no regard to segmentation. In my view segmentation is a way for OEMs and the auto media to get order into their lives. In my younger and thriftier days the budget (or lack thereof) pretty much settled everything. In the early-1980s the choice was between a pre-pre-owned Lambretta versus a new TVS moped. I chose the Lamby as there was a young lady I wanted to offer a lift home from work in the evenings and a moped didn't quite cut it! Sorry auto-makers but young folks have more important things on their minds than engine size and torque. Cut to 2015 when we bought the Volvo XC60 the criterion was - rear seat ride and comfort, quality of interiors, leg space, after sales service and badge in that order. The contenders were the A6, the E-class, the Volvo XC60, the Camry Hybrid, the Merc M series and in a state of confused excitement even the Volvo V40. Looked at the S.80 but didn't pursue it as it was on its way out and the Passat as it was being discontinued in India or something like that.
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|4th September 2016, 09:52
Join Date: Mar 2016
Location: KA 01, KL 11
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Re: Did you cross-shop across segments while buying your car?
I think it is a combination of price you are willing to pay and your need. For example one would fix MUV segment only if you are specific that you need a people mover. In all other cases , it would be largely decided by the kind of money that you can pay and then look for all the different option available irrespective of the segment's.
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|6th September 2016, 12:32
Join Date: Jan 2016
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Re: Did you cross-shop across segments while buying your car?
Then took a test drive and the 1.2 Kappa2 felt peppier than the 1.2 Revotron and was also good to drive and finalized the vehicle.
On the topic, before finalizing on Xcent, also checked-out Swift, Amaze, Zest, Elite i20 (waiting period was 3-4 months then), Sail Sedan, Etios (all Petrols) - with a budget ranging from 6L - 8L.
Last edited by jpcoolguy : 6th September 2016 at 12:34.
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|6th September 2016, 15:10
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: Mumbai
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Re: Did you cross-shop across segments while buying your car?
I am yoyo-ing through segments as of now.
Was hooked on the EcoSport but the new Elantra has me super confused, even though it is a couple of lacs more expensive. And now the upcoming Civic could make matters worse.
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|8th September 2016, 11:17
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Location: Hyderabad
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Re: Did you cross-shop across segments while buying your car?
I had a fixed budget in my mind and wanted a car with good boot space, basic safety features in that budget. Never tried to test drive or explore other cars more than my budget as that would have dislocated my thoughts and budget. Hyundai Xcent won over Zest and Amaze and is my ride now.
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|13th September 2016, 12:04
Join Date: Oct 2015
Location: Pune
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Re: Did you cross-shop across segments while buying your car?
Similar Cross Shopping Dilemma on my mind now.
In the market for Rs. 10 lakh diesel car.
Confused between Baleno 1.3 Alpha vs. Ciaz VDi+ / ZDi.
Can you help?
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|13th September 2016, 12:25
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: Bangalore
Posts: 204
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Re: Did you cross-shop across segments while buying your car?
Back in 2011 when I started shopping for my first car, my choice was locked on Nano which was then vetoed unanimously by the family. Then, started with Alto and gave the WagonR Lxi Duo a second thought. Did the EMI check and found that the Vxi variant won't impact my EMI much and made the booking payment for WagonR Vxi. On the day of loan processing, I panicked by the interest rates and again came down to Alto Lxi. I don't know if this counts as cross shopping across segments.
In 2014, brought the Nano Twist with a dead lock on the variant too. There was no cross shopping at any levels whatsoever.
After having invested a lot on depreciating assets, cars as well as bikes, and the mad fondness of a bike after it is sold off, I am determined not to sell either Alto or Nano. I would be keeping them for ever. So, the third car would be a bigger car, but used one for sure. It would be couple of years down the line and not now. Yes, I would be doing lot of cross segments shopping though Toyota Innova and Honda City would be on the priority list. Innova if I feel I need to take bigger family, but City if only 5 persons all the time.
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|13th September 2016, 13:38
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Mod Note: Please avoid quoting the entire post when responding
Last edited by ampere : 21st September 2016 at 13:31. Reason: Edited size of quoted post
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|13th September 2016, 14:45
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Re: Did you cross-shop across segments while buying your car?
I went through this situation too.
I opted for Honda Jazz V-CVT and Scorpio S10 AT RWD combination.
Unlike you, I opted for a combination of automatic transmission cars only.
Girish Mahajan
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|13th September 2016, 14:56
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It happened almost same with me. My wife said that Hyundai XCent 'looked' better than Zest.
But finally, she understood that Zest was more spacious, better equipped, safer and more value for money. We bought a Zest Revotron XT.
But, yes! Ladies have a soft corner towards Hyundais
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|13th September 2016, 23:50
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Location: Bangalore
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Re: Did you cross-shop across segments while buying your car?
I started my car hunt with a budget of 10L and had decided to go for a spacious hatchback rather than a cut-short sedan. Honda Jazz and i20 were the sole competitors at that time. Jazz was launched and even though I was in love with the car well before the launch and wanted to love it in spite of its bizarre variant-ing and pricing, Honda made sure it did enough to keep me thinking.
S-Cross 1.3 came into the fray simply because i20 did not appeal to my heart and Jazz did not do enough to satisfy my head. It was an accident that S-Cross came into picture and there began my cross-shopping stint. I ended up buying a S-Cross 1.6 thereby pulling my budget by ~50%
But then, I am a satisfied man now - and isn't that matters the most. Cross shopping happens and is absolutely fine if that is what your heart says.
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|21st September 2016, 12:42
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Re: Did you cross-shop across segments while buying your car?
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Sunday School
Haliburton United Church is dedicated to enriching family life in Christ starting at an early age.
Our Sunday School program runs from September to June. In July and August, activity packs with a storybook and activity pages are available in the box marked "Sunday School".
Learn more about Sunday School at Haliburton United Church.
Bible Studies
The regular Wednesday Morning Bible Study takes place in the church library from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Check out the announcements in our News posts for additional Bible studies throughout the year.
The HUC library has one of the largest collections of Christian material in Haliburton County, including non-fiction, reference, Biblical fiction, romance, mystery and political thriller books and DVDs for adults, and Bible stories and fiction books and DVDs for children and youth.


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The Future of Pension Management: Integrating Design, Governance, and Investing (Wiley Finance)
The Future of Pension Management offers a progress report from the field, using actual case studies from around the world. In the mid-70s, Peter Drucker predicted that demographic dynamics would eventually turn pensions into a major societal issue; in 2007, author Keith Ambachsheer's book Pension Revolution laid out the ways in which Drucker's predictions had come to pass. This book provides a fresh look at the situation on the ground, and details the encouraging changes that have taken place in pension management concepts and practices. The challenges identified in 2007 are being addressed, and this report shows how design, management, and investment innovation have led to measurably better pension outcomes.
Read More: HERE
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Angelina Jolie Tell All Interview
Published By: Tara ClemMay 7, 2014
Elle Magazine – Angelina Jolie Tell All Interview — Hollywood superstar Angelina Jolie is always in the headlines. The actress somehow still keeps her life a mystery. In the latest issue of Elle Magazine Angelina Jolie opened up like never before.
Jolie has a new movie being released May 30th. Angelina Jolie plays the role of Maleficent, in the Disney movie with the same name 'Maleficent'. In the Angelina Jolie tell all interview, she told Elle magazine, she and husband Brad Pitt are – "more interested in each other than ever". Despite the countless rumors questioning the marriage between the two.
What The Angelina Jolie Tell All Interview Skips
Family life for Jolie is also the best it has ever been. The one thing that wasn't really discussed was what we all want to hear. Jolie's doesn't have a relationship with her father – Hollywood legend Jon Voight. Voight was unfaithful to her mother. It is a mistake he readily acknowledges. Does he deserve to be forgiven?
Jolie refuses to acknowledge the Hollywood legend. That part of her life was omitted from her expose. Then again it is Hollywood. The Angelina Jolie tell all interview in the latest edition of Elle is definitely a good read. Whether you're a fan of her or not, it will likely put things into perspective – for anyone. Jolie addressed how she has learned to embrace every moment. She even opened up about her thoughts on having children, before she became a mother – "I never thought I'd have children, I never thought I'd be in love, I never thought I'd meet the right person," Jolie says. "Having come from a broken home—you kind of accept that certain things feel like a fairy tale, and you just don't look for them."
Are you going to see the Disney movie 'Maleficent'? Does the fact Angelina Jolie stars make it more or less appealing to view?


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Magic (魔法 Mahō ) is an ancient art practiced by witches, wizards and magical creatures. It consists of the manipulation of magical energy to alter the fabric of reality.
The ancient art of magic is a supernatural ability that channels the magical energy coming from the Yggdrasil or Ley Lines to perform all sorts of feats that defy natural laws. The ability to use magic comes from the study, practice and experience as well as the witch or wizard's own magical power. While any human is able to use magic with proper study and practice, witches from families with long magical heritages possess a natural affinity for magic practices.
Magic is done by storing and channeling the magical energy through magical objects, mainly magic wands. However, the magical energy that each individual can handle is limited since the magic in the world start to diluting, as when the magical energy is exhausted, the user becomes unable to perform magic until reloaded it sources. This limitation can be eliminated in a place where there is a source of magic that prevents the magical energy from being exhausted, like the Sorcerer's Stone.
The main means to perform magic in the desired form is with the use of spells. Through the correct pronunciation of a spell, a witch gets the magic to do what she wants. However, it is also possible to perform magic without using spells, depending solely on the will and power of the user.
Some objects known as magic items possess a magical power of their own that can be exploited by those who possess it, even non-magical humans.
Magic has been practiced by witches since ancient times, its origins go back to 2500 BC or more back. The first witches obtained infinite magic through the legendary tree Yggdrasil that grew from the belief of human hearts, and whose branches covered the cosmos with its magical power. However, over time, the tree wilted due to the decline of magic, and the remnants of its branches became what is now known as the Ley Lines.
In the 5th century, the Nine Olde Witches appears and manages to restore te power of magic in the world. Thus, in the 6th century the Nine Olde Witches created Luna Nova Magical Academy, a school for young witches taught in the sacred art of magic and the responsibilities of wielding it. The values inculcated in the students are altruistic— that magic exists for the benefit of all mankind, and should never be used selfishly. In the 7th century, they used a magical staff and seven ancient words to seal the Grand Triskellion, the heart of Yggdrasil and seed of all creation, inside the Arcturus Forest.
During the Middle Ages, non-magical humans' suspicions towards magic developed into a strong animosity towards witches, who were deemed a malevolent and corrupting influence, giving place to the Witch Hunts. Given that historically some witches were said to associate themselves with demonic beings to get their powers, it can be assumed that, in the series, non-magical humans detested witches in general for the same reasons.
As civilization progressed, superstitions such as the hatred for witches fell out of favor. No longer persecuted, witches integrated into human society, where their magic solved many of its problems and greatly improved quality of life. Witches came to be held in the highest esteem as the paragon of human wisdom. Many non-magical humans raised their daughters as witches, swelling the ranks of Luna Nova with new students. Thus began the Golden Age of Magic, an era lasting for generations until the Industrial Revolution.
With the development of machines, people no longer had to depend on magic for everything. Advancements in modern science and technology gradually led humans to dismiss everything related to magic (including witches and magical beings in general) as obsolete and useless. This was exacerbated by the continued weakening of magic around the world, which resulted in the number of witches declining worldwide.
Guided by Chariot, the young first-generation witch Atsuko Kagari used the Claiomh Solais to awaken the Seven Words of Arcturus and break the seal on the Grand Triskellion. With the help of friends and worldwide encouragement, Akko and Diana Cavendish harnessed its ultimate power to make the world into a place where all mankind could live happily together. The power from humanity's believing hearts united to support the witches' success became a new Yggdrasil, restoring its infinite magic to the world.
Types of Magic
- Amnesia Magic
- Body Strengthening Magic
- Communication Magic
- Elemental Magic
- Flight Magic
- Floating Magic
- Fusion Magic
- Gravity Magic
- Illusory Magic
- Lightning Magic
- Metamorphosis Magic
- Movement Magic
- Object Control Magic
- Puppet Magic
- Restoration Magic
- Revitalization Magic
- Sleep Magic
- Summoning Magic
- Taste Magic
- Transparent Magic
- Transfiguring Magic
- Tracing Magic
See also
- According to Trigger Night Vol.6, due to how closely magic is tied to trees (particularly Yggdrasil which being source of very magic itself), it grants witches longevity. In case of more powerful witches, due to magic constantly flow in them, they would transform into tree upon death, which explain why Mrs. Holbrooke's grave shown having a large tree grown on it and Beatrix's spirit appeared before Diana near a giant tree where Ascension ritual will be held for her to become head of Cavendish family. However, it's possible that rather than physically becoming the tree itself, a witch's magic would be released and manifested into a tree that will grow on her grave upon her burial.


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Synermetric - What's New?
With over 20 years' experience in the assessment space we have significant expertise in the area to support consultants and organisations globally. We will continue to work in partnership with our clients to provide solutions for selection, individual, team and organisational development. Blending psychology with technology, we deliver user friendly, engaging, action oriented solutions.We offer:
- Assessment – in the areas of personality, style, careers, strengths and selection
- Integration – of products and assessments into new report formats and/or into online portals and dashboards
- Training – around our products and services
- Expert support – to help you integrate our products and services into your project
Watch this space for new products being added to our portfolio, more information about our integrated solutions and the opportunity to gain some great benefits.
Please contact us to find out more and for a trial or demo of our products and services.


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Gary Kubiak's Denver Broncos are already 3-0 SU and ATS this preseason, and the football odds are in their favor for Thursday's finale against the Arizona Cardinals.
Gary Kubiak still has that preseason mojo working. In Kubiak's eight seasons at the helm of the Houston Texans, they went 19-11-2 ATS in exhibition play. Now that Kubiak is the head coach of the Denver Broncos, the song remains the same: Denver is 3-0 SU and ATS this year. I've got my spine, I've got my Orange Crush.
Denver can make it 4-0 this Thursday night (9:00 p.m. ET) at the expense of the visiting Arizona Cardinals, who seem to have misplaced Bruce Arians' mojo. He was 5-2-1 ATS going into the new season, but Arizona has dropped two of three SU and ATS. At press time, our NFL odds board has the Broncos laying six points at Mile High, with nearly unanimous support according to our consensus numbers.
Brock Rockin' Beats
Three games is a small sample size, but it's been interesting to see Kubiak continue his preseason success with the Broncos. Peyton Manning's Indianapolis Colts tended to do poorly in these games, and his first three years in Denver saw the Broncos go 7-5 SU and 6-6 ATS. It's not Manning's fault; he's just so good and so durable, for the most part, that his teams have been able to treat the preseason a bit more like a company picnic.
Peyton Manning hasn't been very busy this preseason, either. But back-up QB Brock Osweiler has done quite well this year, and the Broncos have also seen some good play from rookie third-stringer Trevor Siemian. They'll play about one half apiece as Manning sits out Thursday's matchup. Kubiak has been insistent on developing Osweiler and making sure the new offense is up to speed. Good thing, given Manning's age and the young offensive line in front of him. By the way, that line added two-time Pro Bowl guard Evan Mathis last week. Don't sleep on this.
The Sims
While Denver's backup QBs have gotten the job done, the Cardinals looked very shaky in their first two preseason games after Carson Palmer got his reps. Of course, this being football, everything changed in Week 3 when Palmer threw a couple of picks against the Oakland Raiders (–1.5 at home), then watched as Drew Stanton and Phillip Sims bailed him out in a 30-23 victory. Curses, foiled again.
Arians has already told reporters that he'll be sitting his starters on Thursday; it'll be Sims getting the nod at quarterback, with Thomas expected to play the second half. However, there are a couple of key Cardinals who will make the trip to Denver: LB Sean Weatherspoon and RB Chris Johnson, who are recovering from hamstring injuries and need to get some work in. Weatherspoon could prove problematic for Osweiler, but we're going to ride the Broncos anyway. They've got enough depth at running back that Montee Ball (4.2 yards per carry lifetime) will be getting lots of touches, too. Ball don't lie.
Free NFL Pick: Take the Broncos –7 (+115) with your NFL picks at SportsInteraction


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We're Looking
We're on the lookout for the strongest, most creative team we've ever had, to make us the strongest, most creative we've ever been. If you're super organised and/or hyper creative with a love for mags, design and events, come to our meeting!
Date: Monday 14 November
Time: 7 PM
Location: 140 Hampstead Road NW1 2BX, Room 206
Potential roles include Editorial Assistants, Events Assistants, Social Media Assistants, Photographers, Advertising Assistants, Writers, etc.
All welcome to join.
Questions should be directed to firstname.lastname@example.com


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Edward Albee's Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf: Perception vs. Reality
Nick and Honey are presented as even more of an ideal couple. They are seemingly devoted to each other and are made uncomfortable by George and Martha's constant attacks of each other. However, in the following acts, we find that this one is aptly titled "Fun and Games" when the truth is revealed about the two couples.
In the second act, we learn that the idyllic perception of Nick and Honey's marriage is exactly that: a fairy tale. George and Martha begin to attack Nick and Honey (as well as each other) and force them to admit the false pretenses on which their marriage is based; namely, that Nick only married Honey because he believed her to be pregnant. Also, the fact that Nick is so easily seduced by Martha makes one doubt the love in his marriage to Honey.
Another perception destroyed in this act is that the men hold the power in the relationships, which was the standard when the play was written. Their sexuality is what gives Martha and Honey their power. Honey used a false pregnancy to force Nick to marry her while Martha, as the daughter of the president of the university, uses sex as a tool to advance the careers of certain professors (although never her own husband).
In the third act, we learn that Nick is perhaps not the athletic sexually voracious man we may have thought he was; his failure to consummate the affair with Martha resulted from his failure...
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Benton County : Fort Hoskins historic park forest stewardship management plan
ITS Management, Inc.
Benton County (Or.)
Benton County (Or.). Parks Dept.
Miller, Mark
Ferguson, Scott
MetadataShow full item record
ITS Management, Inc.
Benton County (Or.)
Benton County (Or.). Parks Dept.
Miller, Mark
Ferguson, Scott
The purpose of this Stewardship Management Plan is to provide Benton County, and the Benton County Parks Department staff, with a better understanding of the natural resources of the Fort Hoskins County Park site, and the tools to make informed decisions about its future management. This plan describes the current state of the forest, open meadows and streams, and helps to identify forest management opportunities and restoration strategies to reach the [Plan's] goals. [From the Plan]
Related items
Showing items related by title, author, creator and subject.
Benton County : Transportation system plan Benton County (Or.); Benton County (Or.). Public Works Dept. (Benton County (Or.), 2001-07)The TPR [State of Oregon Transportation Planning Rule] not only stipulates that modal plans be developed for roadway, bicycle, pedestrian, public transit, air, rail, and pipelines, but also provides the blueprint for how ...
Benton County : Comprehensive plan (2006 draft) Benton County (Or.) (Benton County (Or.), 2006-06-12)The policies in the Comprehensive Plan involve a commitment by the County to responsible management of the county's land use and resources. The policies are implemented by a variety of tools including the Benton County ...
Benton County Notice of Adopted Amendment (2015-01-05) Benton County (2015-01-05)


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- Computer Cables & Connectors[10]
- Keyboards[10]
- Laptop Cooling Pads[10]
- Laptop Skins[2]
- Mouse[10]
- Optical Drives[4]
- Other Computer Accessories[10]
- Other Computer Products[10]
- USB Flash Drives[10]
- USB Gadgets[10]
- USB Hubs[10]
- Webcams[10]
- Earphones & Headphones[10]
- Speakers[10]
- Laptop Adapter[10]
- Audio & Video Cables[1]
- Office Desks[10]
- Laptop Bags[10]
Contact Us
- Contact Person : Mr. Michel SUNICE
- Company Name : Sunice Electronics Factory Of Shenzhen
- Tel : 86-755-27795169
- Fax : 86-755-89566319
- Address : Guangdong,Shenzhen,The 4th.Floor, No.117, The 2rd Village Zhangbei, Ailian, Longgang District
- Country/Region : China
- Zip : 518172
Product Detailed
Related Categories:Other Computer ProductsLaptop screen cover
Related Product Searches:Laptop screen cover,High Quality,Laptop screen cover,laptop skin,SH-LP01
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Laptop screen cover from 10.2,12,13,14,15inch.
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Guards against scratches, dings, dents, and more
Protects the screen on your laptop during shipping, travel and daily use
Protects valuable displays at a fraction of the cost of screen replacements
Eases the cleaning process
Easily disinfected with germicidal wipes and sprays
Clean with common house hold products that would normally ruin laptop screens
Easy application
No bubbles
Stays in place on notebook computer even when closed
Laptop screen cover


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VAMP's 3rd Birthday: The Speakeasy
Saturday, July 29 at 10:30 PM
Tickets: $25 in advance with the online code BIRTHDAY, $30 at the door
Extended Cast of Players
Karaoke with the Cast + A Drink and Dessert at Shakers
Steps to utilize the code: BIRTHDAY:
- Select July 29
- Enter the Ticket Quantity
- Add to Cart
- Continue to Checkout page
- On the Checkout page under the graphic there is a box to enter the code "birthday', the price will be automatically deducted
- You will then be sent to Paypal* to process the credit card
- After Paypal you will be sent back to MCL's website where you will need to click "CONFIRM ORDER." After confirming the order you'll be all sent and good to go.
*You do NOT need to have a Paypal account to make the purchase.
We'll see you at the show with our most speakeasiest attire on. We hope you're in the same!
Questions regarding using the discount code, please email Michael at email@example.com.


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Car slams into Rocklin Jack in the Box
Car slams into Rocklin Jack in the Box
ROCKLIN, Calif. (KCRA) —
A Rocklin driver got stuck at a Jack in the-Box drive thru after he accidentally hit the gas pedal Wednesday afternoon.
The car went into the restaurant along Rocklin Road and Interstate 80.
Crews were called to the area to remove the car from concrete pillars that are used to prevent cars from crashing into the building.
No one was hurt in the crash.
No other details have been released.


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Latest News
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: When Thomas told the other party guests about Brooke's reason for not attending, speculation ensued. Liam confronted Brooke about her affair with Bill and encouraged her to come clean to Katie. Following her tense interaction with Bill, Katie broke an important promise to her family. Thomas was relentless about getting Steffy to admit that she was still in love with Liam. Bill and Brooke shared a difference of opinion regarding whether they should tell Katie about their feelings for one another. Wyatt paid his mom a visit to make sure she was staying away from Steffy. An irate Bill chided Liam for butting into his personal life. Brooke and Katie had a heated argument, unleashing years of resentment and anger toward one another.
Watch For: A husband commits the ultimate betrayal. A sworn rival plots revenge when given the opportunity. Power-hungry players strive for the top position.
DAYS OF OUR LIVES: Theresa revealed to Brady that she fell asleep while she was watching Tate. Victor did his best to comfort Maggie, who was distraught over Summer. Kayla admitted to Steve that she still wasn't ready to move forward with him. Jade tearfully told Joey that her parents wanted nothing to do with her. Chloe revealed to Philip that Deimos was returning to Salem. Shawn was concerned that his relationship with Belle was at a standstill. Nicole asked Chloe if she was interested in Deimos. Chad still didn't trust Andre but pretended to be on his side. Kate worried that Deimos was out for vengeance after she tried to drown him in the river. Chad had a conversation with 'Stefano', who told him that Abigail might not be the best mother for Thomas.
Watch For: Theo and Claire share a warm moment. Chad receives news on Abgail's fate. Andre orchestrates a secret plan.
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Sam and Jason speculated about Nikolas and Ava's whereabouts. Laura wondered about Spencer's odd phone conversation. Maxie bonded with a job candidate at Crimson. Kiki and Morgan shared a close moment. Liz voiced her belief in Franco's innocence. Jason had some bad news. Anna urged Alexis to be careful. Nathan was shocked by what he found. Maxie questioned Griffin about the challenges of the priesthood. Sonny was frustrated because he was forced to leave Julian's fate in someone else's hands. Meanwhile, Julian got increasingly suspicious. Maxie learned the truth about CJ's true identity. Kristina whispered the wrong name at the wrong time. Nina unexpectedly hired Curtis. Alexis tried to buy some time. Nikolas found an opportunity to escape. The mystery surrounding Josslyn's kidney donor deepened.
Watch For: Laura becomes more reliant on Kevin. Anna has her moment of truth. Theo gets the upper hand.
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS: Adam was against postponing the trial even if it meant giving Kevin more time to investigate. Meanwhile, Nick visited Victoria and told her they needed to go to Adam's trial as a united front. Christine and Paul were surprised to see Nikki in the courtroom. Nick told his sister that he wouldn't be shocked if it turned out their father framed Adam. Sharon admitted to Mariah that she went off her meds because her nightmares were getting worse. Nick asked Luca not to mention the trip he took overseas to investigate the oil spill. Jack was defensive when Billy quizzed him on his relationship with Phyllis. Hilary shunned Devon as she waited to see if Dr Neville's treatment was working. Luca made a mysterious phone call to warn someone about Nick.
Watch For: Stitch opens up to Abby about their recent marital difficulties. Victor's accomplice surfaces in Genoa City. Sharon struggles to keep her secret.


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Walter R. Bracken letter to H. I. Bettis, November 18, 1908
Las Vegas, Nev., Nov. 18, 1908. Mr. H. I. Bettis, Vice Pres. & Auditor, Las Vegas Land & Water Co., Los Angeles, Cal. Dear Sir,- Replying to your favor of November 14th, C-341-G. Beg to enclose you a copy of my letter to the Las Vegas Mercantile Company, and will procure this copy and send to you at once. Yours truly, Walter R. Bracken
- Title
- Walter R. Bracken letter to H. I. Bettis, November 18, 1908
- Individual Creator
- Identified Corporate Bodies
- Source
- 0043
- Original Collection
- Original Date
- 1908-11-18
- Subject (TGM)
- City or Town
- County
- State
- Nevada;
- Collection Subject (TGM)
- City & town life;
- DC Type
- Genre (TGM)
- Language
- eng
- Is Part Of
- http://digital.library.unlv.edu/u?/dig,4
- Rights
- To purchase copies of images and/or for copyright information, contact University of Nevada, Las Vegas Libraries, Special Collections at: http://www.library.unlv.edu/speccol/
- Digital Publisher
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas Libraries
- Digital Collection
- Conversion Specifications
- TIFF scanned at 600 dpi on Epson Expression 10000X using EPSON Scan Ver. 2.94A
- Digital ID
- snv002167
- Master File Creation Date
- 2009-02-11
- Master File Extent
- Master File Format
- image/tiff;
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Institute of Museum and Library Services


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More than half of adolescents held in detention centers in Mexico have been victims of torture, a report by the National Commission on Human Rights, or CNDH, revealed Wednesday.
The body said in a report that 57 percent of minors between 14 and 18 said they had been severely beaten and mistreated by police officers, as well as by members of the Mexican Army and Navy, at the time of their detention.
The CNDH, an organization with judicial, organizational and functional autonomy from the federal government, says these practices occur systematically and frequently. It adds they are deeply rooted in the detention institutions.
"For adolescents, these practices constitute 'normal' behavior or what can be expected from police," says the report "Adolescents: Vulnerability and Violence."
Mexico's Official Story on Ayotzinapa a Product of Torture
The report also highlights the conditions under which juvenile prisons run by the government operate. The testimonies refer to "ill-treatment and beatings," especially by guards. Others said there are punishments like long-term periods of isolation.
"Detention institutions in Mexico, in general, lack the means, guidance, specialized professionals, appropriate programs and comprehensive care that adolescents require to re-enter society," the report says.
Reports of torture have increased exponentially in Mexico since former President Felipe Calderon first deployed tens of thousands of armed forces on the streets as part of his war on drug cartels and organized crime. The practices and complaints of abuse have steadily continued under the administration of Enrique Peña Nieto.


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Gold Hold
After gradually rallying overnight, Comex Gold looked set to crawl back above $1300 this morning until the latest PPI number pushed it backward.
TF Metals Report is supported by subscriptions and donations.
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On The Tee: Callaway Golf Apparel
Comfort on the links is paramount to a good game.
Callaway golf is one of the few golf manufacturers that cover everything from Golf clubs, golf balls, golf shoes and golf clothing. While most of the attention for Callaway has been their equipment, a lot of heads are turning with their new line of golf fashions that are ideal for both on the course and your everyday activity. What's great about these golf products is Callaway's Opti-series technology. It's designed to offer golfers all levels of comfort and performance out on the course while keeping a balance of fashion and technology.
The men's lightweight tech shorts with active waistband provides maximum comfort while playing your round. The opti-dri moisture-wicking technology pulls sweat away from your body so you stay cool down to the heat while the Opti shield creates a layer of protection from the sun's harmful ways with a UPF rating of 50. The Opti stretch gives you freedom to move unrestricted throughout your swing. The men's performance polo is constructed like a jersey with extra ventilation and maximum breathability. It's one of Callaway's best sellers. It's Opti-dri technology transfers moisture away from the body to aid in evaporation and the opti-vent fabric allows for the garment to have maximum breathability.
the flat front five pocket pants and the (W) lightweight tech pants with active waistband both offer the opti-dri, opti-stretch and opti shield technology with the convenience of being machine washable. The pants are both casual for the on and off course look. the pants fit great and stretch with your golf swing. They're light weight, wrinkle resistant and are a great addition to your golf wardrobe.
Callaway's women's opti-stretch 18 inch skort has a four-way stretch inside the short which provides all day comfort on the course. It has 2 front pockets and a back right pocket. The comfort stretch waistband skort has the opti-dri, opti stretch and opti shield technology that makes it ideal for the outdoors. Paired with the women's opti shield polo, it leaves you fresh and stylish. The fabric technology in the polo will keep you dry, protected from the sun and offer the flexibility needed for you golf swing.
If the weather turns and temperatures start to drop, Callaway's weather series will keep you dry and warm. The men outlast 1/4 zip pullover will keep you warm on those chilly days without being too restrictive. For those rainy days, the long sleeved stretch wind shirt with its opti repel fabric resists wind and water creating a barrier of protection against inclement weather.


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Dedicated to the Preservation and Restoration of Antique Outboards
Mumbles wrote:The model number identifies it as a 1967 model. Chrysler bought out West Bend in about '65 so this motor would be one of Chrysler's early ones. Based on the West Bend motors, Chryslers are well engineered and often not appreciated for it. The specs for it will probably be similar to the 1965 20501 model. Note the 16:1 fuel mix.
Seakaye12 wrote:
Is that your own personal spreadsheet...
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We get a lot of questions concerning our Masterclass Societal Transitions. And even though we love to talk to you directly to see if our course would suit you, we've tried to answer some of the FAQs in this message. In case you've got any other questions or you you want us to clarify some of the answers, please let us know.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much time will I have to invest?
The time you will have to save this fall in case of participating will be dedicated to 4 different activities: (1) reading, (2) writing a learning paper, (3) participating in the actual course in November and December and (4) preparing short pitch to present your learning at the come-back day on December 9th. If you aim to earn ECTS credits for this masterclass, there is a minimum amount of hours to be spent – see FAQ 4. Otherwise, the time investment for part 1, 2 and 4 can be as elaborate you want them to be. We provide a package with recommended background reading including 1-3 highlights for each module that we introduce during webinar on October 5th & via email. The lectures & working sessions can be followed without prior reading. However, submitting and presenting a written learning paper by December 9th, including references to some of the reading, is a requirement to receive the certificate. We would reserve a minimum of 24 hours in total to do that between November 4th and December 9th.
- Can you give me a bit more information about the working methods?
We have a total of 10 working sessions spread over 5 modules. They are very diverse, ranging from making multi-level and multi-actor analysis of a domain (e.g. energy, water, health care), interviewing one another, applying concepts from lectures to own work in groups of 2, 3 or more, associative/creative exercises using images, etcetera. The exact choice of the exercises will partly depend on the final group composition and backgrounds of participants.
- I do not have an intervention, project or specific theme I am currently working on. Can I still participate?
That should be absolutely fine. In fact, the learning paper can also be used to explore what kind of interventions you want to work on and how, and how you can position yourself in the context of transitions. For some of the group exercises we might ask you to select a particular domain (e.g. energy, water, health care) or geographical location (e.g. Amsterdam, Netherlands, Europe), but these can also be hypothetical.
- Can I receive ECTS for this course (and if so – how many)?
In case of full completion of the Masterclass Societal Transitions, we will recommend your home university to award you a certain amount of ECTS credits. We will then also provide you with a written statement indicating how the ECTS have been calculated and what learning goals have been reached. Please let us know if you'd like to be informed when more information about the ECTS is available.
- I cannot pay the full price for the course, what are the options?
We are open for discussing solutions on how you (we) can finance your participation. So please contact us and let's have a chat about it.


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Smiths Group announced on Thursday that Mel Rowlands has been appointed to serve as company secretary and deputy general counsel.
The company stated that Zillah Stone, who was working as the interim company secretary, has decided to pursue other opportunities. Smiths Group CEO Phillip Bowman thanked Stone for her service to the company during her tenure as interim secretary.
Smiths also announced that the director of investor relations and corporate communication, Peter Durham, has submitted his resignation in order to take a position with Imperial Tobacco. His resignation takes effect on Sept. 25. Andrew Lappin will be taking over Durham's duties in a combined role that will elevate him to the executive committee.
"I have very much enjoyed working with Peter, and the board is grateful for the significant contribution he has made in articulating the Smiths story to investors and other stakeholders over the past seven years," Bowman said. "We are truly sorry to see Peter leave and wish him every success in his new role. I add my congratulations to Andrew, who has worked closely with Peter for six years and is ideally placed to ensure a smooth handover and succession."
Smiths Group has multiple business segments that specialize in detection, energy, communication and medical devices.