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I'm at the stage in my career where I'm willing to contemplate the fact that retirement is on the horizon—probably in the next 10 years or so.
Increasingly, I find myself talking about "retirement readiness" with friends and colleagues who are in the same situation. Recently, I had a chance to discuss retirement with a group of Vanguard clients. I found their comments to be quite telling, and pretty much in line with what I've already heard from others.
While most of us would probably prefer to spend our preretirement years planning ways to make retirement more meaningful—through travel, volunteer work, spending more time with our families, or just enjoying some well-deserved leisure time—the simple, hard truth is that retirement readiness really does come down to numbers. Whatever your vision of the "perfect" retirement happens to be, your first (and second, and third!) question must be: Will I be able to support myself financially when I'm no longer working?
In my next few blog posts, I'll take a closer look at this question. In particular, I plan to assess the latest data on how much Americans have saved, whether our current national savings rate (which recently dipped slightly after inching upward during the 2008–2009 economic downturn) is sufficient, and the troubling rise in personal debt.
In the meantime, I hope to hear from you. If retirement is in your near future, do you have a specific number—that is, minimum savings amount—in mind? How did you arrive at it? Are you on track toward reaching it by the time you leave the work force? And if not, what do you need to do to get there?


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Through IUCNs effort to combat climate change in the region and as part of The Social, Ecological and Agricultural Resilience in the face of Climate Change (SEARCH) project, a workshop involving climate change experts was conducted in Cairo starting from the 30th of September 2012.
SEARCH is a three year regional project working in five countries (Egypt, Morocco, Jordan, Palestine and Lebanon), funded by the European Union, to develop and pilot a climate change resilience framework for local action planning to increase climate change adaptation through joint learning, planning and testing in 6 demonstration sites.
The SEARCH project demonstrates how local communities can successfully engage with and overcome the negative impacts of climate change. Instead of looking for solutions to specific environmental problems, SEARCH concentrates on giving the local community and other stakeholders the skills and knowledge they need to assess the impact of climate change on a day-to-day basis. It also and foremost helps them develop a realistic vision for the future to assist them in increasing their resilience towards climate change. In Egypt, the project works in Al-Minya & Bani Suef, involving 6 different villages in being part of the process that will shape their climate change adaptation polices later.
The workshop conducted by the Centre for Development Innovation (CDI) focused on grouping climate change experts in the region to acquire better facilitation skills and experience to effectively guide a complex dialogue between different sectors with not necessarily common agendas. These acquired tools will enhance ownership and accountability of all relevant key stakeholders and end-users for a more interactive planning and management process. The aim of this workshop is therefore, to provide them with the knowledge and skills for designing and facilitating multi-stakeholder and social learning processes.
For more information regarding the projects, kindly contact
Dr Amr Abdel Mageed – CEDARE Country Coordinator for Egypt

subset: commoncrawl


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What do you think Esme thinks of Renee and Charlie?
I don't think she's met either of them, but she would approve of them for being good parents, from what she's heard. She must also know that Bella misses her mum, so gave her the plane tickets. She would probably also know about Charlie grounding Bella, and maybe think it a little unfair, perhaps that it was her familie's fault she was grounded, but she'd know Charlie was protective and want the best for his daughter.


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A major struggle that I face as a mama/wife/business owner/Jesus follower is PRESSURE. While there may be pressures that are placed on me by others, the reality is that most of it comes from my own unreasonable expectations that I place upon myself. I am supposed to be perfect, well dressed, have squeaky clean floors, well mannered children, meet all of my husbands needs, have X number of clients, no dirty dishes, meaningful quiet times and bible reading every day......the list goes on and on and on.
And I know that I am not alone.
I know that pretty much every woman I know has the same struggle in some shape or form. We all feel the pressure to be perfect, to display a certain image.
The past couple of months has been a season of growing for me. Letting go of things that make life messy, letting go of things that do not honor God and do not serve my family. This is where the "No pressure day" comes in. I have learned that I need to let the pressure go and I need to be intentional about it.
I chose Friday to be the one day that I truly do everything in my power to let go of the PRESSURE and just plain enjoy life with my children. Just soak it in. It is a bit different for me then a normal type of a Sabbath that families usually spend together. I intentionally wanted it to be a day that my hubby is working. He is a nurse and works 12 hour shifts so like he is GONE.......like ALL DAY. I wanted to force myself to have a special mommy/kiddo day where we just enjoy each other. No pressure. We can stay in our jammies all day. We can go to the park, we can make messes and not clean them up. We can do crafts or not do crafts, we can watch movies, have 80's dance parties on top of matresses in the living room......we can do whatever we want. As long as there is no schedule, no plans, no pressure.
It has been one of the best choices I have ever made. Want to join me??? You can follow me shannonrphillips on instagram and post pictures of your no pressure day and use the hashtag #nopressureday
Here are some recent pics that I took with my big girl camera of my muchkins on our "no pressure days."
Pancake breakfast. Only because it sounded fun and yummy. And we didn't do the dishes afterwards.
Loving on babies in the middle of the day in jam jams.
Just playing and working on walking.
Playing guitar in his jammies.
Singing a love song. This is the hard part for me. The floor in the background desperately needed sweeping. But I chose to focus on my girl and her pretty song. I chose to delight in her baby blue eyes and let go of worrying what people migh think if I posted a picture with a dirty floor in the background. ;)
Just hanging out playing games on Mom's phone. How did he get smelly boy feet instead of baby feet all of a sudden?
Annnnnnnnnnnd naps. Naps are a must on "no pressure day." Even if it is only the baby who is sleeping. The little boy and I still snuggle up and rest.
So this is a challenge to all you ladies out there. You don't even have to be a Mama, you know you pile the pressure on yourself. Take a day and let go. See what happens. Let's do this together. We might be surprised at all of the beauty life has to offer in the middle of letting go.


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Ever think the thing your burger taco is lacking is a little more bacon? Well the PYT in Philadelphia has the answer for you.
The burger of the week this week is the Bacon Shell Burger Taco.
The taco shell made completely of bacon is stuffed with burger meat shredded cheddar & pepper jack cheese, lettuce pico de gallo and a avocado ranch sauce.
The bacon taco burgers are limited to only 20 a day.


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I have no confidence whatsoever against the Heat, but the Celtics simply are not that good right now... If either JR and Carmelo show up, the Knicks should win. Unfortunately neither did last night.
I have no confidence whatsoever against the Heat, but the Celtics simply are not that good right now... If either JR and Carmelo show up, the Knicks should win. Unfortunately neither did last night.
I'm sh*tting bricks but we really should still take this series. We're the better team and have two shots at it.
Melo just really needs to step up and will the team to victory. He's the superstar -- if he's going to hold the ball and go iso every time he touches it he needs to be more effective.
Celtics have finally found their shot, we need to play better defense and be aggressive early -- our bigs got in foul trouble early while Garnett stayed clean. We need to attack him. When he's not on the court they're a completely different team defensively.
I wish Woodson would complain about the officiating too -- if Doc can manipulate the refs (officiating has completely changed since Game 2 when Doc complained) he should be able to as well. Woodson has been soundly outcoached on and off the court so far.
Worried about Chandler. He just doesn't look like the same guy.
Really, Felton is the only guy who showed up the last two games.
That said, if he Knicks blow THIS series, it will most certainly be a choke job.
Why can't it be both? The Sox showed grit, heart and talent to come back and win from such a deficit. The Yankees will forever be associated with the biggest choke job ever in the history of playoff baseball. And as you said, if the Knicks do it the same applies.
If the Knicks blow this it will be a way bigger choke than the '04 Yanks/Sox series.
A) Yanks/Sox were much more evenly matched. These Knicks are definitely (IMO anyway) better than these Celtics.
B) Baseball and Hockey are more flukey games and postseason success often relies more on momentum and luck, IMO. There's a reason why Basketball hasn't had a 3-0 comeback in a 7 games -- the team with more talent (in particular the more talented top players) almost always win. It's why 100 game winners get bounced in the LDS but everyone basically assumes the Heat are going back to back.
Getting smoked as expected.
edit: spoke too soon?
Last edited by GuidoYaztremski; 05-03-2013 at 10:52 PM.
WTF is this?!
LOL. I changed the channel when they were up by 26. I come back and Celtics are on a 19 pt run. WTF???
Celts are out of gas. Dont know if they can get the stops they need here.
Nice win in Dump on the Charles...
Bring on the Pacers
and let's all wish a fond farewell to Vinnie Patrollie, Hoops fan
Knicks almost blew one in epic proportion. I'm proud of my octogenarian team for almost pulling it out. Shame. Would have been legendary. Knicks have zero chance of beating Heat so what's the diff? (Celts wouldn't have either)
I dunno, didn't they go 3 for 4 this year, including beating them at home? Didn't look it up, honestly don't know.


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I'm posting this to hopefully save someone else the many hours of grief I've just been through.
There is apparently an incompatibility if you have Logitech QuickCam software installed along with ZASS 7.0 (more specifically, with the Kaspersky engine that is now part of ZASS 7.0).
At some point after booting (sometimes within a few minutes or even several hours later), the system starts getting memory errors.
Every time you open any new program you'll get a popup with "The instruction at "0x7c8edf9c" referenced memory at "0x7c8edf9c". The memory could not be "written".
You may also get a second popup from DRWWIN, which is Microsoft's Dr. Watson debugging tool.
Eventually you will have to reboot because nothing will work anymore.
The problem occurs whenever Logitech's ProcMon process is running (c:\program files\common files\logitech\lvmvfm\LVPrcSrv.exe).
This gets installed with the QuickCam software, and is automatically started up when you boot.
I have the Logitech Communicate STX, but understand this also applies to most other QuickCam models.
The workaround is to be sure this process never runs.
First, go into Control Panel / Administrative Tools / Services and find the 'LVSrvLauncher service.
Right-click, open its properties, and change the Startup Type to 'Disabled'.
That will ensure that it won't be loaded at boot time.
Be aware, however,
that this process is also started up if you invoke the 'Logitech QuickCam' application (usually a desktop icon).
So in the ZASS Program Control / Programs tab, I've changed the trust level for "Logitech LVPrcSrv Module" from 'super' to 'kill' -- meaning it will never be allowed to start.
I haven't completely figured out how lack of this process impacts use of the QuickCam, but my understanding is that the camera will still work fine when called from other applications.
It's only Logitech's own app that uses this process.
All I know for sure is that I haven't had a single memory problem as long as LVPrcSrv is not running.
FYI, I finally discovered this information from an August 2006 posting on the Kaspersky user forum - see: http://forum.kaspersky.com/lofiversi...hp/t20500.html
Hope this helps some of you - and at least now it's archived here for future reference!
Operating System:Windows XP Pro
Product Name:ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite
Software Version:7.0


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It's Time To Be Nice To People
I asked her to go swimmin with me one night, and she just gave me this blank "I want you" stare.
My doctor gave me six months to live, but when I couldn't pay the bill he gave me six months more.
Walter Matthau
Don't show Betty that picture until after we check out.
Originally Posted by benncool
Agreed !!! Bennington survived the Revolutionary War ! But I heard the PD still has outstanding warrants after Convention III.
Thanks for not " giving me up "
i belong to peta ... people eating tasty animals. all my opinions are just mine.
i think dolly whored herself out and has a sugar daddy in pitts, i would forgive her and take her back in colorado
Originally Posted by shaun66
i think dolly whored herself out and has a sugar daddy in pitts, i would forgive her and take her back in colorado
I saw her in NC....Otto had her for a while and she went flat.
Gee, I barely knew her. Such memories I will have of our fleeting romance.....two ships passing in the night.
Will send her and the banner to Jack in a month or so.
Be safe not fast. body parts don't grow back
Takes a big man to admit he's had dolly for months. Even bigger to give her up so others will learn of her charms
Forum Rules


text: This is posted in the college foreign thread. Thought the Junior Talk would enjoy reading this too. Interesting read from a tennis dad. This is part of a long letter, and I pulled out the paragraphs relevant to this section. I hope we can all read this without besmirching Mr. Bryan's character or his sons' talents. Wayne Bryan's Letter To The USTA http://www.tennis-prose.com/articles/wayne-bryans-letter-to-the-usta/ Address the glut of college players in American college tennis. This is the big elephant in our tennis living room. The USTAhas never taken a stand on this. They even put out a White Paper saying basically that there is no problem. I chaired a panel discussion on this two years ago and the four USTA Staffers at the table all said American kids are "no good" and "lazy". Huh?! There are several million dollars in tennis scholarships going to foreing players whose parents do not spend dollar one in taxes for education in this country. In this dire economy this is unconscionable it seems to me. UCSB Story: I made my annual trip up to see my ol' school UCSB beat UOP on Friday and made a little check contribution to the team, but it broke my heart to see most all the players on both teams being from Hong Kong and Denmark and France, and everywhere but the USA. Baylor wins the NCAA Team Title a couple of years ago with six foreign players. What do we do? We make their head man theITA Coach of the Year! And I had a nice long chat with a Freshman who was watching and supporting the team from Washington DC who couldn't quite crack the lineup at UCSB and he was saying that he "just wasn't quite good enough". That broke my heart and I remembered back to my wonderful days playing there in the late 60s and having everyone on the squad from California (they are all close pals to this day – one a doctor, two lawyers, one in real estate and two still in tennis) and we played maybe one team all year that had one foreign player. With 65% of the players being from overseas, it is criminal and most of all, it is a crying shame that American college tennis is now a world class sport. It should be for our American youngsters to enjoy and to derive the wonderful benefits. Are those parents of the players from Europe and Asia paying taxes to support UCSB and all the other colleges in this country? To ask the question is to answer it. European soccer and Japanese baseball have quotas re foreign players. As Steve Bellamy points out, to be Miss America you must be from the US. To be President of the United States you must be Born in the USA as Bruce Springstein would sing. One foreign player per team? – - – fine – - – helps international good will and is a nice broadening experience for the guys on the team – - – six foregn players?! – - – I say the emperor has no clothes. I say burn it down and start over again. Time for a revolt. Carthage must be destroyed! I have been spectacularly unsuccesful in getting this elephant in our American living room removed. I have made speech after speech to coaches and parents in this country and they are 100% behind me and I've spoken to the college coaches national meeting in Florida on three occasions in recent years and I've hit this topic as hard as only Wayne Bryan can – - – to no avail. Lamp Story: Light the lamp in the living room at 8:30 in the evening and it lights up the room and puts a warm glow everywhere. Take that same lamp outside on a Summer day at noon and you cannot see any shine coming from it at all. It is all drowned out by the bright sun. Have only American kids playing college tennis and the crowds will be even bigger and the tennis just fine and exciting. Open college tennis up to the whole world and make it world class and our US kids are diminished. Why not make High School Tennis world class too? Why not have all the foreign coaches come over and take all the jobs away from our American coaches? College tennis should not be a world class sport. It should be for our American kids. And the scholarships should go to them and be helpful to their parents who pay all those taxes and who have supported their children and their tennis and their academics every step of the way. It is time for the USTA to stand up and be counted on this issue. It is our USTA juniors who are losing out and paying the price. This glut of foreign players is chilling US junior tennis. When their is no fruit or flowers on the top, the vine dies.


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In 2006, homicide across the U.S. was the second-leading cause of death for people ages 15-24 years old according to the Centers for Disease Control. This program will take a look at violent crime in Arkansas and explore prevention and intervention programs that seek to stem the violent trends around the state. A guest panel of crime prevention and intervention specialists and an interactive studio audience will address issues on violence.
Panelists include: Steve Nawojczyk, youth services administrator for the city of North Little Rock; Dwayne Yarbrough, education specialist for the Arkansas Attorney General's Office; Dr. Albert Kittrell, medical director for the Arkansas State Hospital; and Judge Willard Proctor of the Pulaski County Circuit Court 5th Division.
Sharing her story of loss will be Zena Cooper of North Little Rock whose two sons were both murdered. Marcus Cooper, 21, was caught between two men shooting at each other April 23, 2005. Eleven months later, 25-year-old Cortez Mallet was gunned down. To preserve her sons' memory, she has begun driving an ice cream truck, which gives her the opportunity to visit with children about the importance of staying out of trouble and choosing the right friends.
On the Net: www.aetn.org


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BEAVERTON, Ore.—So what is the SPARQ rating, exactly? It's Nike's way of testing a football player's athleticism by using a weighted point system to combine his performance in the 40-yard dash, the 20-yard shuttle relay, the power-ball toss and the vertical jump.
The Opening, Nike's on campus summer showcase in Oregon, held a SPARQ national championship on the first day of the event and Mike Mitchell, an uncommitted consensus four-star linebacker out of Plano (Texas), took the title.
Mitchell has scholarship offers from Arizona, Florida, Florida State, Ole Miss, Ohio State, UCLA, USC, Vanderbilt and Washington, along with in-state schools Baylor, TCU, Texas A&M and Texas Tech. He broke the SPARQ score record with 154 points, and ran a 40-yard dash time of 4.39 seconds to clinch the title on the final event. He's 6-4, 215 pounds and was definitely moving well for a big guy—and it certainly won't hurt his recruiting stock.
Derrick Henry, an uncommitted running back or a linebacker depending on who one looks at him, was another top competitor.
On the other end of the spectrum, one Sporting News Top 125 player—who is committed to a major power and is one of the nation's top prospects at his position—told Sporting News that he wasn't impressed with the rating system. He asked to remain anonymous since Nike paid his way to come to the showcase.
"By their ratings system, the test said I had a 10-percent chance of playing Division I football—and I'm already committed," the SN125 player said.
Six of the best quarterbacks in the nation are in the camp, including Sporting News Top 100 QB Max Browne—who is committed to USC. But it wasn't Browne who turned heads during the early drills.
Michigan commitment Shane Morris, who at 6-3, 195 pounds already looks the part of a college football starter, was rifling his left-handed passes during drills. His short to medium-range velocity was clearly the best of the group. Later on, in one-on-one drills that required a bit more finesse, Browne began to find his groove and looked like a quarterback who could put the ball anywhere he wanted.
Alabama recruit Cooper Bateman, Georgia recruit Brice Ramsey, Penn State recruit Christian Hackenberg and Texas recruit Tyrone Swoopes also had their highlights.
SN125 cornerback Eli Woodard, who will defend against Morris' throws one day soon as Ohio State top current commitment, was impressed with the future Michigan quarterback.
"He has a nice arm, he has a tight spiral on the ball—he's going to be a great quarterback, I can see it," Woodard told Sporting News.
On a sidenote, former Ohio State QB and Heisman winner Troy Smith worked one-on-one with Morris at times—showing that summer time truly is peace time in college football.
Injuries were an issue in the first day, which is exactly what college coaches fear in events such as these.
Alabama's top prospect, defensive end Reuben Foster, went down with a hamstring injury during the preliminary portion of the SPARQ training. He will not participate in the rest of the camp.
Also, defensive back Vernon Hargreaves, who is undecided but highly sought after, aggravated a sprained ankle. He was on crutches by the time one-on-one passing drills were going on.
Both prospects are ranked in the top 12 of the SN125.
One participant in 'The Opening' made his school decision known on Friday.
Isaiah Jones, a receiver out of Milton (Fla.), had been coveted by Florida State and Auburn. Jones ended up picking the Seminoles while at the camp.
He is a 6-4, 200-pound receiver who also had offers from Arkansas, Clemson, Georgia, Miami, Tennessee and Ohio State.
Later this weekend, former Ohio State commitment Alex Anzalone will choose his school.
The Pennsylvania native is down to in-state Penn State, Notre Dame and Florida.
Anzalone withdrew his commitment with the Buckeyes when a fan asked him to pose for a photo, and it turned out the fan was a convicted sex offender. He and his family were unnerved by the event, saying that they didn't understand how a fan like that could have such easy access to a recruit.
With the SQARQ challenge wrapped up, Saturday and Sunday's focus shifts to 7-on-7 action and lineman drills, culminating in a championship for both events on Sunday.
The 7-on-7 portion will feature QBs pairing up with WRs, TEs and RBs to throw against DBs and LBs, while the linemen will go at each other in the challenge.
Both days will have highlights telecast on ESPNU at 8 p.m. EST.
247Sports' Day 1 coverage of The Opening: Top offensive performers | Defensive standouts


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SOCIAL: Follow on Twitter | Friend on Facebook
Not a FlaVarsity Premium subscriber? FlaVarsity costs just 27 cents a day and you get access to the entire Rivals.com network! To get a free seven-day trial, click here..
Some rose, some fell and some made it in while some were left out.
That pretty much sums up the latest Rivals250 - released Wednesday.
While Florida featured no less than 16 players in the top 100 - 23 more were listed in the 101-250 spots, including South Sumter's Keanu Neal (at No. 250) and Miramar's Jermaine Grace.
Players like Milton's Isaiah Jones moved into the rankings (at No. 150) while others tumbled.
The biggest mover of all was Glades Central DB Will Likely - who tumbled from No. 79 to No. 183 in the latest listing.
"With Likely, as a group, we just had too many concerns over his size, specifically him being just 5-foot-7," said Rivals.com Florida analyst Chris Nee. "He slid some at cornerback while others moved ahead and that led to his dropping out of the 100."
"I still view him as an exceptional playmaker who is a great athlete," Nee continued. "But regardless his height is an issue that led to his value being decreased in comparison to others at his position."
Caleb Brantley of Crescent City is the highest ranked Florida player in the 101-250 listing - coming in at 109. Jacksonville Sandalwood's Demarcus Walker moved up 32 spots to No. 120.
For the story on how and why the players moved - click here


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Thrive keeps you up to date with great information you can use, activities and events to help keep you in good health and connected with others. Thrive also keeps you informed about Valley Medical Center's new technologies and services. To save valuable natural resources, this publication is emailed directly to our patient and friends within the Public Hospital District. . Sign up now for a free subscription to Thrive!
Read the current edition of Thrive.
Read past issues of Thrive
Copyright 2012 Valley Medical Center. All rights reserved.


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virre wrote:bronzehairedmiracle wrote:virre wrote:I wish they would divulge some of the music info soon! i am dying to know who will do the score!
Howard Shore is doing the score.
wow, its been confirmed? weeeee! *dancearoundtheroom*
Yes. Here's a link- http://screenrant.com/twilight-saga-ecl ... ttm-42937/
(P.S Where did you get your avi? Its gorgeous )


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Dwight Richard Odle, who has been involved with South Coast Repertory's "A Christmas Carol" since Day One, remembers that the venerable holiday play, now in its 33rd season, started for the most mundane reason: a hole in the calendar.
"We were closing a show sometime before Thanksgiving," said Odle, a veteran scenic and costume designer with a five-decade résumé. "We looked at the schedule and suddenly realized that the theater was going to be dark for more than a month. It really hadn't hit us before then."
SCR founder-directors Martin Benson and David Emmes turned to their colleague Jerry Patch and asked him if he could produce an adaptation of Charles Dickens' famous story of Yuletide redemption at lightning speed. The two wanted a traditional version that they could own and control.
"He did it in a couple of weeks," Odle recalled. "We then had about two weeks to put the show together. It was a real crash course."
Odle was assigned the tricky task of creating more than 150 costumes for men and women, adults and children that covered several different historical periods. Working fast under severe time and budget constraints, he pulled it off. Odle's costumes were singled out as one of the high points of the original production.
"Even though we had limited time, we wanted to build them to last," Odle said. "But we had to do things that I would call shortcuts. I remember that the gowns for Fred's party scene were essentially the same brocade material in a range of colors."
Emmes gave Odle a suggestion that has stayed with him through the years. "David at one point early in the process called the production 'operatic.' I think what he was wanting was detail and texture and a feeling of richness and depth. He wanted history to come alive."
Since the play's 1980 debut, Odle and his team have spent countless hours repairing, altering and replacing costumes as time took its course and directorial concepts for some scenes changed.
"About seven or eight years ago, we got a nice chunk of money and we replaced all of the party dresses with silk taffeta. The natural fibers light better, last longer and simply look better on stage. Each dress has about 10 yards of fabric."
Odle, an Orange County native, was steered toward his calling in high school by a helpful teacher.
"I was an art major at Fullerton High School, but I loved theater as well. A drama teacher took me under his wing. I said, 'I love art and theater equally.' He said, 'Why don't you put them together?' I'd never thought of that."
The teacher gave Odle his first assignment. "It was a Hispanic play called 'The Red Velvet Goat,' a little one-act. I did a fairly simple set. It got a commendation at a student festival held at the Pasadena Playhouse."
Odle went on to Fullerton College and USC before finishing his undergraduate degree at San Francisco State University. There he met some of the talented theater people who would go on to form the original company of South Coast Repertory in 1964.
After finishing his graduate degree in design at Yale University, where he studied both set and costume design, Odle returned to Southern California and made good on his SCR connections. He has also worked extensively at the Laguna Playhouse, Fullerton Civic Light Opera and many other theaters in Orange and Los Angeles counties.
Odle pointed out he's not the only member of the original creative team who's still involved with SCR's "A Christmas Carol."
"There are several others. (Lighting designers) Tom and Donna Ruzika are still with us. Jerry has worked on (the script) almost every year. They're still fine-tuning dialogue. The show is not a museum piece by any means. We keep rethinking things."
One example: The Ghost of Christmas Present.
"He started out as a little English gentleman, shorter and a bit rotund," Odle said. "We dressed him in a tailcoat with a wreath of candles on his head. We changed him – gave him an elegant robe with fur borders and cuffs."
Odle's work is complemented with more than 25 wigs. "They change because styles change over the time periods in the play."
Those time periods have been the subject of debate over the years.
"At first we weren't that specific. Then a few years ago we tried to create a true timeline for Dickens' story. 1854 is Scrooge's present. That was just the beginning of the hoop skirt period for women. The ghost of Christmas past takes him back to probably 1795. Then we move forward to Scrooge's young-adult years, about 1810 or 1815. It's the Empire period in France, Regency in England. That's when we have Fezziwig's party. Styles were high-waisted with a slim silhouette.
"Then we did a lot of research on social strata, the pecking order, and how people of various classes would dress."
After more than three decades, have Odle and his colleagues perfected the story?
He chuckled. "Oh no, never. There's always something to do."
Contact the writer: 714-796-7979 or email@example.com


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New York's Department of Transportation would provide $60 million for the projected $70 million project, which could fill the gap using federal stimulus money. Numerous previous efforts by NYDOT and Amtrak, the segment's primary user, to double-track the stretch for passenger rail purposes have stalled.
"The project for installing a second main railroad track between Albany and Schenectady was previously on the Transportation Improvement Program as part of the Amtrak, DOT Rail Initiative. It was subsequently removed from the TIP. It is being brought back now and funded with discretionary Railroad Stimulus funds," according to the Regional Planning Committee's agenda item.


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By Paul Gottlieb, January 20, 2013, Peninsula Daily News
Federal grant funding of nearly $1 million is being sought for a road extension project at William R. Fairchild International Airport to provide aircraft with better access to the hangar complex — and access to a new terminal building expected to be built in the distant future.
Port of Port Angeles commissioners approved the request for the $929,484 grant, which port officials are confident they will receive, at their regular meeting last week.
The port would match the 90 percent Federal Aviation Administration grant with $103,276 from the port's FAA entitlement funding, bringing the project's estimated cost to $1.03 million.
Bid openings are expected in late June, with construction targeted for about May or June 2014, port Executive Director Jeff Robb said.
The hangar complex at Fairchild — the largest airport in Clallam and Jefferson counties — contains eight multiple-aircraft hangars and space for six more.
Commission President Jim Hallett said the improvement project ties in with a proposal to remove some Douglas fir trees in Lincoln Park, which is owned by the city of Port Angeles, to improve flight access to an adjacent airport runway.
"All that is predicated on a viable airport," Hallett said.
"We also derive economic benefits."
The federal funding is part of "a great program with dedicated funds for aviation infrastructure," Commissioner John Calhoun added.
The FAA has said that some of the park's trees are too tall for the approach to an airport runway and a Lincoln Park Master Plan, which must be approved by the City Council, calls for removal of all trees tall enough to possibly obstruct flight paths into the adjacent Fairchild airport.
The port is "very confident" the grant will be approved, Robb said in a later interview.
"We met with [FAA officials]. It's consistent with our master plan, and they support our master plan," he said.
A new terminal building south of the existing terminal is part of that master plan.
The road "eventually will serve the terminal building when the terminal building gets relocated" south of the existing structure, Robb said.
"I would expect that's many years out, but we've got to build for the future."
The roadway would be built between the existing terminal building and Rite Bros. Aviation Inc.
It's part of a plan to develop hangar space west of the existing hangars and to build runway aprons for aircraft.
Rite Bros. also eventually must relocate as the hangar complex is further developed with more hangars and expanded parking for itinerant aircraft, which land and take off daily, port Airport and Marinas Manager Doug Sandau said.
Rite Bros. owner Jeff Well said Friday he was planning to move four years ago.
"The economic environment didn't allow that," Well said.
Rite Bros. is located in three separate hangars.
"That's really ineffective," Well said.
"I'd really love to have one, big, single facility instead of going from building to building and things like that."
Itinerant aircraft such as corporate jets — and emergency aircraft operated by Airlift Northwest — must now park on taxiways, Sandau said.
"Part of this whole move is a reshuffling, a reorganization so we are more conducive to supporting corporate activity."
Fairchild was developed from 1934 through 1948, and was transferred from Clallam County to the port in 1951.
It was redeveloped to support World War II military operations, with the terminal built on the runway's edge.
"As time goes on, things change," Sandau said.
"This is part of that continuum.
"If things really pick up and develop, we may have to modify the [airport] design to support bigger aircraft."
Kenmore Air — a regional airline that offers the only scheduled passenger flights on the North Olympic Peninsula — serves Fairchild with three daily flights.
There were 6,160 Kenmore Air passenger enplanements and deplanements at Fairchild in 2012, a 21 percent drop from 2011.
Prompted by low demand, Kenmore cut service from five flights to three June 1, 2011.
Kenmore's falling under the annual level of 10,000 enplanements and deplanements means the port will no longer receive the FAA entitlement funding. The last year it was received was 2012.
"The big sea change for [Kenmore] was getting their operating costs in line," Sandau said.
"The only way they could do that and continue operating here was to reduce the number of flights in half.
"They got their operating costs in half, and now they are in the black.
"Hopefully, eventually, we can start adding more flights."
Kenmore Marketing Manager Craig O'Neil would not comment Friday on whether Kenmore is "in the black."
"We feel like we have scaled operations closer to demand and feel good about the steps we've taken," O'Neil said.
The company is selling flights through the end of December, he added.
"We are committed to keep going at the rate we have been."


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Wi-fi, airco and garden 50 metres far from the sea - Lido di Ostia
Size60 m²
Floor No.(with elevator)
- Family/child friendly
- Washer/dryer
- Elevator in building
- Kitchen
- Pets allowed
- Internet/WiFi
- Disabled access
Accommodation summary
|Via Franco Mezzadra, 00121 Lido di Ostia RM, Italy
|Property type
|Property ID
Lido di Ostia will allow you to visit Rome – 30 minutes away by train, 1,50 euro ticket – but also to enjoy its own beauties: sun, sea and Mediterranean dunes, fresh pinewood, gorgeous archaeological sites, cycling tracks and sports facilities' parks, good food, nightlife, a new touristic port and much more…
Roma dal Mare are in the centre of Lido di Ostia, a few steps from the sea and 15 minutes by walk from the Pontile (sea pier) and the new Tourist Port. Easy access by public transport – no problem to park your car, all around you can find shops, supermarkets, a commercial centre, an amusement park for children, sport facilities' pinewood, theatre… you will never get bored!!
Roma dal Mare satisfies all requests and above all savings, including apartment's keys.
The Guest Houses Roma dal Mare are authorized by the Municipality of Rome. They respect all by-laws in terms of public health and safety. (SUAP n. QA10446 e n. QA10447).
House rulesIt's a comfortable and fully furnished apartment on the ground floor, of 60 m2 with a private garden of 110 m2, able to accommodate up to 4-6 persons. It has been recently renovated.
It's made of a double room with a double bed and a third added single bed, living-room with a sofa-bed, kitchen and a bathroom with a window and a shower. Wi-fi connection for free.
Air conditioning provided.
The garden, accessible from the living-room, is equipped with a gazebo and deck chairs.
Included equipment and services
- apartment's keys
- towels and sheets
- TV SAT and DVD
- Wi-fi connection
- private garden with furniture an BBQ
- washing machine
- central heating
- air conditioning
- small animals accepted
- iron and ironing table
- electric fans
- hairdryer
- bars on the windows
- kettle
Services on demand
- pick up service to/from Airport and Stations
- bike rental
- baby sitting service
- cleaning rooms service
- for children (baby chair, camp bed, stroller)
Not included in the price:
- final cleanings: 30,00 €
- gas: 1,50 € per m3
- electricity: 0,50 € per kWh
- room occupancy tax (Municipality of Rome): 3,50 € per person per night (max 10 days), not under the age of 10 years
The deposit of 100,00 Euros per week will be returned when you check out (unless there are damages), less your gas and electricity's consumption.
|Weekly rate for up to 4 guests
|Monthly rate for up to 4 guests
|Price for > 4 guests
|$ 12 US per guest/night extra
|Maximum nights
|3 months
|Check-in after
|Check-in before
|On arrangement
|Check-out before
|Cancellation Policy
Reviews of this property
We found the apartment spacious & well situated near the seafront of Ostia. It was ideal for our son, partner & baby to visit. The apartment was well equipped although English guests would very much like a kettle for making tea ! Federica was welcoming & wanted to ensure that our stay was the best it could be.
Reviews for this host's other properties
Giovanni was a very nice and helpful host. The beautiful and spacious apt. is really close to the beach and comes with all kinds of toys and books for kids. So a perfect place for a family holiday. Super!
Our visit in in Ostia was very good. We really liked the host family, Giovanni and Frederica, and the apartment.
Christer with family.
- Quality assured accommodation
- Every host is verified by telephone
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HOUSTON — The Miami Dolphins' offense, already short of playmakers, may have taken another big hit in Sunday's 30-10 loss to the Houston Texans when running back Daniel Thomas left the game in the second quarter with a concussion.
Thomas was injured with 35 seconds left in the first half when he was drilled by Texans strong safety Glover Quin and fumbled on the play.
Thomas lay on the ground for several moments and eventually walked slowly off the field with the help of two trainers. The concussion was bad enough that Thomas, who does not have a history of head injuries, was not on the Dolphins' sideline in the second half and was not available to the media after the game.
Thomas (6-1, 230) clearly is the second option in the running game behind Reggie Bush, but he is in line for touchdowns as the red zone back. He rushed for 11 yards on three carries against Houston and also had a 32-yard reception on a screen.
Thomas' injury will mean more touches for Bush, who had 69 yards with a 4.9 average Sunday. First-year back Marcus Thigpen, a former Canadian Football League star, will likely see more playing time if Thomas can't play next Sunday against Oakland.
Rookie back Lamar Miller, a fourth-round pick, was inactive Sunday but could see the field next week. And fullback Jorvorskie Lane, who caught one pass for 24 yards Sunday, could have a bigger role in the short-yardage offense.


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Discussion in 'Science Fiction & Fantasy' started by Dream, Jul 28, 2012.
I don't think FOX has the rights to use that character.
And with A.I.M. being a part of Iron Man 3, it's more likely to see him there.
The sentinels, I say!!
'X-Men' Director Unsure Of Halle Berry's Future In 'Days Of Future Past'
Is Halle Berry being being shut out of 'Days Of Future Past'?
I'm surprised she hasn't already been announced yet.
Though originally he was a Captain America villain.
She was mentioned
I think the big question is do fan WANT her back? Her Storm has never been that popular with many fans.
However, it would be bizarre to recast her when they are planning to bring back so many same actors from the trilogy to reprise their roles.
It would be bizarre to recast her for the future part since they could just kill her off off screen. However, I could see picking someone else to be young Storm if they want to go down that route.
They will probably just kill her off camera. That is how most of the team died in the original story. Its hard to know how big the roles of the original cast will be. But I am guessing the First Class cast gets at lest equal or greater screen time.
From the article...
Doesn't sound like she's "being shut out" at all. There could be many reasons why she may not be involved. From availability and prior commitments, to just not having a place for her in the story, to just having too large of a cast already.
And what of ol' Pyro, I wonder...
But I wanna see Storm with a mohawk!
Singer: Days Of Future Past to "fix" The Last Stand
Not only does he not ignore it, HE FIXES IT!
Why is that a link to the TrekBBS? Anyway, we already know this since he's stated this a couple of times in previous interviews.
I screwed it up intentionally, so I could FIX it.
Srsly, I have no idea what the hell happened.
Atta boy, Singer.
Yeah, it wouldn't be X-Men if character deaths weren't totally meaningless and temporary. Bravo.
I wonder if they'll try to explain the two different Moira MacTaggerts. Or adress the fact that most of the characters' ages don't really work out.
He's going to "fix" Last Stand only so it makes sense to not ignore it when the giant box set is produced later. They got a lot of Last Stand copies occupying good warehouse space they need to move out.
Counting down to FOX announcing a "Singer Cut" of "The Last Stand"
Separate names with a comma.


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Episode 1
Children of Earth: Day One
Every single child on Earth stops; Torchwood is thrown into a world of terror.
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Torchwood follows the adventures of a team of investigators, led by the enigmatic Captain Jack Harkness.
Drama, Sci-Fi
Suitable only for 15 years and over
Children of Earth: Day One
Every single child on Earth stops; Torchwood is thrown into a world of terror.
Children of Earth: Day Two
The team is forced underground when the government takes swift and brutal action
Children of Earth: Day Three
The eyes of the world turn to Britain, as the 456 announce 'We are here'.
Children of Earth: Day Four
Torchwood finally learns the truth about the events of 1965.
Children of Earth: Day Five
Gwen Cooper stands alone as the final sanction begins.
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PC, Mac, Chromecast, iPad, iPhone, Android phones and tablets, Windows phones and tablets, Xbox, smart TVs, set-top boxes and Blu-ray players.
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City's first Alzheimer's walk Saturday, hopes to raise awareness
By Lindsey Williams
The Arkansas River Valley's first Alzheimer's walk will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday at the L.V. Williamson Boys and Girls Club.
The Helen B. Sweeden River Valley Alzheimer's Walk honors the woman who was a part of the Russellville business sector for many years.
Tara Dollar, the walk chairperson, contacted Alzheimer's Arkansas to organize the event after losing her grandfather to the disease.
"I just felt like we needed to get more info for caregivers," Dollar said in regard to why she organized the event. "I know (Arkansas Alzheimer's does) several walks throughout the state and helps people know they are not the only ones with family members with the disease and know there is help out there."
Dollar said when Todd Sweeden became involved with the event, the walk's name was changed.
"The walk this year has been renamed in recognition of Helen B. Sweeden," Dollar said. "Mrs. Sweeden, a wife, mother and successful businesswoman, lived with Alzheimer's disease for many years. Our grandparents were very important to us, but sometimes it takes someone well-known in the community who's been affected by Alzheimer's to help others to see that Alzheimer's disease affects people from all walks of life. We want people to know there's help out there for them and that they don't have to look too far to find it."
That help can be found with Alzheimer's Arkansas, an organization providing programs and services to families affected by Alzheimer's.
Janet Nelson, development director for Alzheimer's Arkansas, discussed the programs and services available.
"Probably one of the biggest things around here is the 24-hour telephone line, because Alzheimer's is not 9-5, Monday through Friday," Nelson said. "People may need to talk to someone in the wee hours.
"We have a whole variety of educational programs that we do for families, including having families that come to our office for care family consultation. We do lots and lots of inservices for professional caregivers, we train and host support groups across the state. We have a lending library here where information can go out all over. We do a monthly newsletter to people who are members and we also sponsor the file of life program, which is a packet that goes on the fridge and is a way for individuals to condense all of their medical information in one unit so if something should happen, it speeds treatment time for first responders."
Interested residents will not have to pay any fees to participate in the walk. Commemorative T-shirts will be will be given with a $25 donation. All proceeds go to Alzheimer's Arkansas to support educational programs and services which are provided to families free of charge. Registration begins at 9 a.m., Saturday with the walk underway at 9:45 a.m. The event will include a silent auction, door prizes and face painting for kids.
"Anybody is welcome," Dollar said. "If you can come for a little bit, it's great. It will be over by noon, so you will still have your Saturday to do what you need to do. We are just ready for a good walk and hopefully it will be the first of many more to come."
Whitney Snipes contributed information to this report.


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Award-winning author William Kent Krueger has gained an immense fan base for his Cork O'Connor series. In Ordinary Grace, Krueger looks back to 1961 to tell the story of Frank Drum, a boy on the cusp of manhood. A typical 13-year-old with a strong, loving family, Frank is devastated when a tragedy forces him to face the unthinkable - and to take on a maturity beyond his years.
©2013 William Kent Krueger (P)2013 Recorded Books
"Krueger aims higher and hits harder with a stand-alone novel that shares much with his other work." ( Kirkus Reviews)
"Far from an Ordinary Thriller"
Yes I would happily recommend this novel. It's extremely well written with good quality characterisations that hold your interest and really make you care about what happens to each of them.
The over-whelming impact on the Drum family of the various incidents that unfold. Tremendous writing.
Sensitively read and nothing 'over the top' which would have ruined the delicate balance of this novel
The burden put onto the father of the Drum family. I'm not a believer in the religious sense and at times it could have been so easy to feel an edge of impatience taking over, but it's so well written that finally I just couldn't fail to be moved by his stoicism.
I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this novel. The descriptive passages devoted to both the locations, era and characters made it a memorable experience. There are no particularly gripping moments or shocking revelations here but taken as a 'whole' this is a murder mystery that will not fail to grip you and will stay with you long after you've finished it. For me, that's the test of a good book.
"A coming of age story"
The narration of this story was very good. I could clearly picture in my mind thirteen year old Frank Drum and his younger brother Jake ambling along together during the summer of 1961 in the small community of New Bremen, Minnesota. Then tragedy strikes and touches the lives of pretty much everyone, changing everything. A book to be savoured, with well drawn characters. I especially liked how the author worked the title into the story towards the end, a nice touch.
"Wonderful Wonderful - In Every Way"
This book is beautiful. Just brilliant. It's a mystery that takes place in Minnesota in 1961 with classic literature; very reminiscent of To Kill A Mockingbird. So much so that I found myself listening to this story in black and white.
A beautiful tale with a 'morals in an immoral world' theme. One of the main characters is a wonderful peaceful father who has to guide his children through the animalistic ways of mankind. The family in this book are that of the town's minister's which lends itself to discussions of religion.
Once started I was completely immersed in each member of this family and all the people that they come in contact with. I plowed through this for I could NOT put this down. Just when I thought I saw a direction this was going - I found myself surprised.
I have never read this author before. If you have, be very careful to read the synopsis carefully for this is a stand alone book. I would be thrilled if this would become a series book though.
Rich Orlow is such an enhancement to this story by giving every character an identity. He does the voice of the deaf, women, men, children, Indians, aristocrats to perfection. What a talent.
I will be looking for this author and narrator other works.
"best book to come along this year!!"
After a series of great murder mysteries, staring Cork O'Conner, Kruger has come up with a genius of a stand alone coming of age, murder mystery, and trestles on the "awful grace of God".
Our of the best books that I've ever read.
Frank is telling his story some forty years after the actual events that took place during his thirteenth year. In 1961, small town Minnesota, the summer is hot, the people know everything about everyone, and life is good. But this all changes when a young boy is killed while playing on the train tracks. Frank , and his stuttering younger brother, speculate about this tragedy. Their father is the town's Methodist minister, and folks look to him to answer the preverbal question of "Why would God let this happen?".
But that was just the beginning of this momentous summer for Frank, his family, and this small town. There will be three more deaths. An itinerant man is found amongst the weeds, there is a suicide, and finally a murder. Everyone in the town is affected by these tragedies in some way---bringing out the best and the worst in people.
Kruger's writing is filled with wonderful descriptive phrases. His characters will touch your heart in ways that will be difficult to put away after you've finished this book. His specific and thoughtful discussions of God's grace as seen through Frank's eyes will keep you wondering about your own faith. Simply a five, no five times five star read. This book has something for every reader to enjoy!!
""was like....""
I agree with the reviewer who criticized the amount of similes and metaphors. I know this sounds petty, but so much good solid writing yields to things like "the silence was like angels" and "night was like the dark of your soul" and "as hot as the pavement below our feet". The reason it merits criticism is that the amount of similes and metaphors is overwhelming, distracting --and finally, amusing. Every few sentences the narrator pauses and I laugh, saying the next words right along with him: "...it was just like a ..." and it's pulling me out of the story.
"By the Grace of God"
The coming of age can certainly make a boy of 13 grow up fast. Frank Drum was that boy. He definitely has a story to tell.
There are many participant's in this story and each of them have their own story to tell. These character's are very well developed. The reader will come to know each one as an individual. Listen closely because each one of them are important in contributing to the coming of age of Frank Drum.
I definitely encourage other's to purchase this book. The plot is very well developed. The characters are interesting people and the author, William Kent Krueger, wrote about them so that the listener will want to continue reading to the very last page. The narrator, Rich Orlow, is excellent. He makes the character's come alive. He makes listening to, Ordinary Grace, a pleasure and an easy listen.
The mystery of who committed the murders that summer in Breman, a small town where everyone knows everyone else, is difficult to understand. Why would anyone want to end the life of another?
Always remember that the dead are never far from us, just one single breath will take us to them.
"A mystery that is no mystery."
Mr. Krueger can write, and the narrator can read. I have enjoyed Krueger's work for a long time, particularly the series that features Cork O'Connor. However, this book is a stand-alone, and it is disappointing. You can name Ariel's killer very quickly after she is killed, and you can also see the straw man immediately.
I would have changed quite a bit about the family. Not to be anti-religious, as religion is one of the strongest aspects of the people in this town. But the father, Nathan, is a preacher, and IMHO too much preaching pads the book. Nonetheless, the characters of the two boys are engaging, and the narrator is strong and convincing.
Not much. The material he is given is not Mr. Krueger's best, and Mr. Orlow does the best he can with it.
I don't like this book enough to do that particular exercise.
Try reading one of the books in the Cork O'Connor series. He is a very well-drawn character, and the plots of the books, while sometimes light on the mystery front, are well-written, and one comes to feel that O'Connor might be someone you know.
"Extrodinary Novel"
This book works on many levels. It is a mystery story, you won't want to put it down. Most of all Ordinary Grace is an extraordinary work of fiction. It is a coming of age story with themes of family, sorrow, justice, resiliency, forgiveness, and perhaps most of all faith.
If you like any one book of any one of the following authors I think you will like this book: John Irving, Kent Haruf, Leif Enger, Marilynne Robinson, David James Duncan.
Also, I really appreciate when audible adds the author interview after the reading, this one was interesting.
"Charming, Bittersweet, Pure Pleasure"
"It was a summer in which death, in visitation, assumed many forms. Accident. Nature. Suicide. Murder. I still spend a lot of time thinking about the events of that summer. About the terrible price of wisdom. The awful grace of God."
Frank Drum begins his story, looking back over forty years to this fateful summer in 1961 when he was 13 yrs. old. The story is immediately familiar and the nostalgia consuming. Krueger writes poetically, creating an idyllic summer so vividly the years tick backwards. For many it will recall that well-known coming of age through tragedy, Stephen King's The Body (movie: Stand By Me). There are similarities, but Krueger's story is a murder mystery tucked into a gentle and sweet tale, focused on family, small town secrets, and spiritual struggles, more than the physical threats of big brothers, dead bodies, and junk-yard dogs.
In addition to being a New York Times Bestseller, Ordinary Grace recently won the 2014 Edgar Award For Best Novel, the 2014 Dilys Award, and has been selected as a *School Library Journal Best Book Of 2013. I'm not familiar with the author's Cork O'Connor series and can't speak to any comparison, but I found this book completely charming and captivating. Krueger's ability to create a soothing kindness through his choice of words, even in the midst of violence, death, and some (mild) sexual encounters, is remarkable. The novel deals with a multitude of *delicate* issues with frankness and compassion instead of sensationalism. Moments like the Reverend's sermon after a death (I won't spoil it by divulging the victim) are healing balms, so beautifully written they are all the *church* you could hope for.
There are some stereotypes and clichés, some sentimentality, but it all seems fresh and original, they are so well used, and so much a part of the period. You may see the ending coming, may figure out the murderer, may even question little brother Jake's keen insight, but any concerns are lost in the overall beauty and grace of this novel. It may not be the block buster everyone is talking about, but for me it was a pure pleasure reading this novel; one of my favorites of 2014.
**The School Library Journal is a monthly magazine with articles and reviews for school librarians, media specialists, and public librarians who work with young people. They have this book listed as an "Adult Books 4 Teens." I would say use your own discretion.
"Thoughtful coming of age in the midwest story"
Wm Krueger has written an emotionally charged story of, primarily, the coming of age of two young boys in 1961 rural Minnesota. The sons of a local preacher and mother who gave up a career to marry their older sister is the family star. When a series of misfortunes hit the town this family is torn apart as are other characters.
Speaking of characters, Krueger has developed each person in his novel with grace and thoroughness, telling not only about their summer of ;'61 but their pasts. I enjoyed Gus very much and felt he added a lot to the boys growth.
The conclusion surprised me a lot and In mysteries I find that a welcome part of a story arc.
I feel fortunate to have listened to two 5 star novels in a row thru Audible. These both were books I would never have purchased were it not for Audibles Return policy for members..I am encouraged to try authors I've never heard of before.
Thanks Audible.
"Very enjoyable!"
I cannot find the words to express the contemplative quiet this novel invoked in me. As an atheist I usually do not care for themes of faith and especially preaching. This book discusses life's questions against the backdrop of a young man and his family dynamics. However, the story is nicely woven and stands on its own regardless of the deeper thoughts.
"More like an AMAZING Grace"
STORY (historical fiction) - This story reminds me of the movie "Stand By Me." It is set in a small town in Minnesota in the early sixties and is told by Frank who, now grown, is looking back on one particular summer of his youth which was plagued with numerous tragedies. The book is very character-driven, and by the end you will know each character intimately. In small town USA everyone knows everyone's business and , when tragedies strikes, it affects the whole town. Ordinary Grace is about how this town deals with sadness and the mysteries surrounding that sadness. It is a coming-of-age story with elements of personal growth, faith, family, death, forgiveness......life.
I might have rated the book a 5, but it was a little slow getting started, in my opinion. There are two very touching parts of the story, and it's hard to describe them without giving away part of the mystery. Hints: Nathan gives a very touching sermon after someone's death. The best part of the book is the "Ordinary Grace," which is more like an Amazing Grace.
PERFORMANCE - The narrator is male. He had a pleasant voice and did a good job distinguishing between the different characters.
OVERALL - Only mild references to sex and pregnancy, and I don't recall any foul language. The book stands on its own. The story is interesting and emotional, but it's not so intricate that you have to pay close attention for fear of missing something. Recommended for all mature listeners, male or female.
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Bartolo Colon, who won the 2005 AL Cy Young award with the Angels and who's helped the Oakland A's make a surprising run at the postseason, was suspended for 50 games by major league baseball Wednesday after he tested positive for elevated levels of testosterone.
"I apologize to the fans, to my teammates and to the Oakland A's," Colon said in a statement from the baseball players' union. "I accept responsibility for my actions and I will serve my suspension as required by the Joint Drug Program."
The story was first reported by Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com.
Colon, 39, has a record of 10-9 this season with an earned-run average of 3.43, and he was getting better as the season wore on: In his last five starts he was 4-1 with a 1.57 ERA.
Colon went 2-1 in three starts against the Angels this season, with an ERA of 1.70. He dominated them on April 18 and Aug. 7, pitching a combined 15 innings and allowing just eight hits, no runs and no walks, while striking out 10. In that April game at the Big A he was masterful in a 6-0 A's victory, throwing 38 consecutive strikes at one point.
He's one of the main reasons the A's are in the hunt for a playoff spot, despite having the second-lowest payroll in the game at $55.4 million (just above the struggling San Diego Padres). They entered Wednesday's game against Minnesota in second place in the AL West, 5.0 games behind Texas, but only a half-game out of the No. 2 wild-card position. The Angels, by comparison, have baseball's fourth-highest payroll ($159 million) and are 8.5 games behind Texas and 4.0 out of that second wild-card spot.
"It's a shock," A's reliever Grant Balfour said. "He's a guy that we're definitely relying on right now. I guess you could say it's bad timing any time, but especially now."
Colon is the second star on a pennant-chasing Bay Area team in the past eight days to be slapped with a 50-game suspension for high levels of testosterone, which is one of baseball's banned substances. On Aug. 15, San Francisco Giants outfielder Melky Cabrera was punished; at the time he was second in the NL in batting, with a .346 average. Cabrera was embarrassed further when it was revealed than an associate had created a fake website, from which Cabrera had claimed to have purchased the product that led to his positive test.
Colon burst onto the scene in 1998, in his second season with the Cleveland Indians. He made the All-Star team that year and went 14-9. He followed that with an 18-5 record in 1999, finishing fourth in the AL Cy Young voting. In 2000 he went 15-8 and threw a no-hitter. In June of 2002 he was sent by Cleveland to Montreal in a blockbuster trade that brought Cliff Lee, Brandon Phillips and Grady Sizemore to the Indians.
After a year with the White Sox in 2003, Colon signed with the Angels as a free agent. The Angels had just come off their flop of 2003, when they followed up their World Series championship season with only 77 wins. Colon helped fuel the Angels' return to the postseason, and in 2004 he went 18-12 as the Angels went 92-70 and won their first division title since 1986.
In 2005 Colon went 21-8 as the Angels won 95 games and made it to the ALCS. Colon easily outpaced Mariano Rivera and Johan Santana in the AL Cy Young voting, becoming the first Angel to win the award since Dean Chance in 1964. But he injured his right (pitching) shoulder in a playoff game against the Yankees, and he made only 29 more regular-season starts for the Angels across two seasons before leaving as a free agent after the 2007 season. That final year he went 6-8 with a 6.34 ERA but made a salary of $16 million.
Over the next two years, Colon pitched for Boston and the White Sox again, going a combined 7-8 in 19 starts. He missed 2010 with an injured right shoulder before playing for the Yankees in 2011. He went 8-10 with a 4.00 ERA in 29 games, and his career as a big-time starter seemed to be over.
The A's risked little on him when they signed him to a one-year, $2 million deal in January. But he paid dividends immediately, becoming the ace on an otherwise unheralded pitching staff.
Colon will miss the A's final 40 regular-season games, plus any postseason games they play. The balance of the suspension will be served at the start of next year. Once again, Colon is eligible for free agency, so he could land anywhere.
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The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and the Regional Transportation District (RTD), in partnership with local governments along the corridor, began construction of the $312 million multi-modal project along US 36. CDOT's largest current construction project will reconstruct and widen 10 miles of US 36 between Federal Boulevard and 88th Street in Louisville/Superior to accommodate one High Occupancy Vehicle/tolled Express Lane in each direction. The new lane will provide for Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), which will use the improved infrastructure to provide faster, more reliable service, as well as other improvements along the corridor, ultimately to provide additional options for commuters.
"This project leveraged federal, state and RTD funds as well strong partnerships to make it a reality and is a model for future transportation projects as it's an example of how governments at all levels should collaborate for the good of the public," said Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper said in a press release from CDOT. "When this project is complete, we will have an improved transportation system that will benefit this economically-diverse corridor as well as the thousands of motorists who utilize US 36 on a regular basis."
US 36 opened to the public 60 years ago in 1952 and the highway now carries between 80,000 and 124,000 vehicles a day. As a result of these improvements, the corridor will evolve into a 21st Century transportation system. In addition to the Express Lane that will accommodate HOVs, BRT and tolled Single Occupancy Vehicles, the project will replace several bridges, build a commuter bikeway and add BRT improvements. Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) for tolling, transit, traveler information, and incident management will also be installed to help alert motorists of lane closures due to accidents or construction so that they can make informed travel decisions.
"The innovations being employed on this project are a first for Colorado," said Don Hunt, CDOT executive director, in the CDOT press release. "We are excited about the future of the US 36 corridor and what these improvements will mean for those who live and work along the highway as well as for the occasional travelers. More transportation options mean less time sitting in traffic."
From the funding of the project to the project elements, the US 36 Express Lanes project has many innovative features, including:
The multi-modal facet of the project is also an innovation. The project will provide multiple travel choices to users whether they choose to drive alone, carpool, bike or take BRT.
"RTD is proud to be a part of this project and excited to bring BRT as a new class of service to commuters along US 36," said Lee Kemp, RTD Board Chair.
The Ames Granite Joint Venture team is the design-build contractor for the project, which will open to the public in January 2015. CDOT, the Federal Highway Administration and RTD are funding the $312 million project:
For more information about the project, go to www.us36expresslanes.com. To receive free email updates during the project, click on the cell phone icon on the right. You can then subscribe to a variety of lists including "US 36 Express Lanes Project." For current project information for your mobile phone, go to http://m.us36expresslanes.com.
Source: Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)


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The Oregon average for regular unleaded falls to its lowest point of 2012, dropping below the year's previous low price which was $3.385 on Jan.2, 2012. The Oregon average falls six cents this week to $3.37, while the national average loses a nickel to $3.33. It is at its lowest point since early July." AAA Oregon/Idaho Public Affairs Director Marie Dodds says , "For the third week in a row, Oregon's average for regular unleaded is just a few cents more than the national average. Earlier this fall, the Oregon average was as much as 30 cents a gallon more than the national average." "Oregon's current price of $3.37 is a dime per gallon lower than it was a year ago at $3.47. But the current national average of $3.33 is a nickel more than it was a year ago at $3.28 and continues the streak of daily record prices for the calendar day that began on August 20," adds Dodds.
AAA continues to predict that the national average for regular unleaded will slowly drop through the end of the year, barring unforeseen events, and average between $3.20 and $3.40 a gallon by New Year's Day. To date, the lowest daily average of 2012 is $3.271 a gallon on Jan. 1. In Oregon, AAA believes the state average will also be in the $3.20 to $3.40 range by New Year's Day. "However, there's always the possibility that pump prices could rise or remain flat as a result of rising oil prices and other economic factors," Dodds says.
Over the last week, the average pump price in every state has fallen. The weekly decline was most dramatic in Nevada, Idaho and Missouri, where prices fell about a dime. Motorists in Hawaii continue to pay the most for gasoline at $4.01 per gallon, while those in Missouri pay the least at $3.03. If the price in Missouri falls below $3 per gallon, it would be the first time since July that a state average has broken that threshold. If the state average in Hawaii drops below $4, it would be the first time since New Year's Day — and just the second time since March 13, 2011 — that no state has averaged above that price.
Pump prices across the country have steadily declined as U.S. demand for gasoline continues to be low and inventories remain high. The exception is the East Coast, where supplies are increasing but remain somewhat tight following the disruption to distribution following Hurricane Sandy and the limited imports from Europe due to the higher global crude oil prices paid by overseas refiners. While nationwide demand will likely increase slightly as motorists travel to visit family for the holidays, demand is expected to remain low to begin 2013, which will keep downward pressure on gasoline prices.
Despite falling pump prices, it is all but certain that the average price for regular unleaded this year will be the most expensive on record. The 2012 national average to-date is $3.62; the previous record was last year at $3.51.
Lower crude oil prices have also contributed to the cheaper gas prices paid by consumers. At Monday's close of formal trading on the NYMEX, the price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil was down 37 cents to settle at $85.56 per barrel. WTI has settled lower for five consecutive trading days and is at its lowest price since November 15. Today crude is trading around $86. WTI has not settled above $90 per barrel since October 19.
National Average (Regular) Highest Recorded Avg. Price Date
Current $3.328 Regular Unleaded: $4.114 7/17/08
Week Ago $3.381
Month Ago $3.439
Year Ago $3.279
Highest Rec.
Current Week Ago Month Ago Year Ago Avg. Price Date
Oregon Statewide $3.370 $3.430 $3.623 $3.473 $4.294 7/03/08
Portland $3.337 $3.395 $3.602 $3.451 $4.278 6/21/08
Salem $3.369 $3.436 $3.583 $3.344 $4.262 7/08/08
Eugene/Springfield $3.392 $3.473 $3.622 $3.472 $4.330 6/28/08
Medford/Ashland $3.366 $3.408 $3.592 $3.606 $4.379 7/11/08
Bend $3.321 $3.372 $3.619 $3.484 $4.345 6/20/08
Vancouver, WA $3.355 $3.389 $3.605 $3.460 $4.349 6/28/08
Drivers in all states and the District of Columbia continue to pay more than $3 per gallon at the pump; but Missouri's average is close to the $3 mark at $3.03 a gallon. Only one state, Hawaii, still has an average price at or above $4 a gallon, same as last week. Hawaii has the most expensive gas in the country for the eighth consecutive week. For the fifth week in a row, both Oregon and Washington remain out of the ten most expensive states, but California remains in the top five. Hawaii is most expensive at $4.01, followed by New York at $3.80, Connecticut at $3.73, Alaska at $3.72, and California at $3.62 (down seven cents and fifth for the fifth consecutive week). Washington is 15th up from 19th last week at $3.41 (down a nickel). Idaho is 20th down from 13th at $3.39 (down a dime). Oregon is 21st for the second week in a row at $3.37 (down six cents). For the fifth week in a row, Missouri has the cheapest gas in the nation at $3.03 a gallon (down a dime).
Diesel prices are also dropping. The national average dips three cents to $3.98 while Oregon's average falls seven cents to $3.97. It's the first week since early August that Oregon's average has dipped below the $4 mark. The national average was last below $4 in mid November. Diesel is at or above $4 a gallon in 23 states (including the District of Columbia), down from 24 last week. Hawaii is most expensive at $4.91, followed by New York at $4.36, Connecticut at $4.33 Alaska at $4.25, and Vermont at $4.18. California is 11th down from eighth last week at $4.12 (down six cents). Washington is 18th down from 15th last week at $4.06 (down seven cents). Oregon is 25th down from 21st last week. Idaho is 34th down from 30th last week at $3.90 (down eight cents). A year ago, the national average for diesel was $3.91 and Oregon's was $3.99.


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I have two Cisco Catalyst 2960-S 48-port switches "stacked" using the Cisco FlexStack module. Originally I had to set them up using "Express Setup", which I absolutly hate from my limited use of it.
I configured hostnames, ip addresses, and made sure the stack was functioning properly. I tested by plugging in a laptop and making sure it could open an internet page and all was well. I configured each switch exactly the same with the exception (obviously) of the hostname and IP. I then powered them OFF and installed the stacking module and they auto-configured themselves...
Switch-A (192.168.10.3)
Switch-B (192.168.10.4)
Switch-A (192.168.10.3) Master 1
Switch-B Member 2
What I need and want to do now is setup remote access. If I have to go connect up with a console cable to configure that's fine, but I'm not sure if I need to...
If I open PuTTY and use Telnet to connect it states "password required, but none set" and the PuTTY window closes.
If I open PuTTY and use SSH to connect it prompts me "login as:"
If I press enter (@192.168.10.3's password:) it proceeds to prompt me for a password, which entering the password I used to setup the switch I receive "access denied".
I know I didn't configure SSH or Telnet for that matter when I initially set these up. I want to fix that now.
I want SSH (v2) enabled and I want to disable Telnet.
Any suggestions?
I did Google it and read that, but I'm not sure I understand it.
Do I have to execute "aaa new−model"?
I have a password to the device (privledge mode), but no user name that I know about.
Here is what I think I should enter. Correct me where wrong.
crypto key generate rsa (generate SSH encryption keys)
ip ssh version 2 (use v2 of SSH)
ip ssh time−out 30 (time out a SSH connection after 30m)
transport input SSH (this prevents Telnet access)
Yes, you'll need aaa new-model for to use user/password combos.
The transport input command needs to be under the line vty 0 15 (make sure you get all the vty lines in your config).
You will also need to define a username and a password to access the device. It's usually best to have a "backup" username defined locally, but rely on a TACACS or RADIUS server for regular user authentication.
Just follow the link Paladin provided step-by step. It will work.
You have to get used to reading Cisco docs. They are not the sort of 'condensed' command lists you get for stuff like a blog page about how to install Apache using yum on CentOS Linux or something. They usually consist of an alternating sequence of step by step commands broken up by background and theory and optional information and sub commands. Usually when you get a page like the one I linked, almost everything on the page is important and you usually have to do it more or less in order if you want it to go smoothly. Just read through the page at least once before doing any commands. Then read through again and copy out the commands you think you need to do into a text editor like notepad++ and modify them to your specifics (IP addresses, usernames and passwords, etc.). Then as you paste them into the device, read through again to make sure you understand what you are doing.
You have to get used to reading Cisco docs.
I agree. It's not everyday that I work with Cisco, but I definetly want to know more about how they function. I have a tendancy to want as basic of a config as possible so that my lack of knowledge doesn't leave something open for someone else to take advantage of. I'm just trying to be careful.
Is there a good way to learn about these commands and test w/o having hardware. My hardware is my production network, which is why I don't want to type stuff in and "see what it does". I do need to learn more about Cisco. This is just my starting place. I'll get better I'm not new to IT (far from it), but I'm more of a server admin than a network engineer.
The documentation tells you what it does. Cisco is particularly good at telling you in the docs what commands do and when they can potentially cause problems. They don't always say that bad things can happen for everything but generally they do.
The only way to test things without hardware is with an emulator like GNS3 or similar.
Arbelac wrote:
Yes, you'll need aaa new-model for to use user/password combos.
No, that's not quite right. If you're using local authentication you can skip it.
Here's the config:
no aaa new-model
username jediatzinger privilege 15 secret LetMeIn
line vty 0 15
login local
no password
transport input telnet
This will give you telnet access. If you want SSH access you also need to generate a cert and make a few other tweaks:
hostname mySwitch
ip domain-name foo.com
crypto key generate rsa general-usage modulus 1024
ip ssh time-out 60
ip ssh version 2
line vty 0 15
transport input telnet ssh
If you also want to lock down console access to use the username/password:
line con 0
login local
Sure, but why would you want to. It's roughly the same amount of config to do less.
MaxIdiot wrote:
Sure, but why would you want to. It's roughly the same amount of config to do less.
For a single (logical) switch with a sinlge admin as is the case here I would find it a simpler configuration than defining method lists, even if just one method were used. As the original poster appears to be somewhat new to IOS, I think my proposed solution is easier to understand, and for this instance, I don't think it does less. AAA does have it's place, and if the OP's requirement were to use an external directory for authentication and/or authorization (e.g., TACACS+, RADIUS or Kerberos) then it's the only way to go. If anything it also provides the OP opions to consider and future exercises trying both methods.
The only way to test things without hardware is with an emulator like GNS3 or similar.
I have access to cisco.com to download IOS for my ASA and 2960-S. Could I download images for those and use GNS3 and setup a lab? Or would it be "better" to budget for some lab hardware and proceed that route. What would you all recommend? I am the only admin and run the entire network so I don't spend a ton of time (unless I need to configure and deploy new stuff that I don't know well - SNMP, SSH, etc). I have SSH up and running perfectly on my ASA since that's where I've setup inside/outside access lists, etc. I don't do any of that on the 2960-S so I've never had a need until I wanted to setup SNMP on the 2960s for remote access. The 2960-S's have just always worked great. I was able to setup SSH v2 on the ASA by reading the documentation (and back in the day asking a couple questions here about it).
My point here is that I really want to learn - if not for this job - for whatever my future holds. As a server admin adding more "network administration" to my skill set is important to me. I also really like it, which makes it easy for me to want to spend the time learning it. How do learn it is my hang up. Lab (emulation or hardware), documentation, guides, etc.
Could I download images for those and use GNS3 and setup a lab?
This is not trivial. I've spent most of my Monday morning trying to get it to load up an IOS image and I've discovered that it doesn't work with later versions of IOS, which is what I'm using in production.
I don't see anyway outside of purchasing actual hardware to have a staging environment (as much as I want to use GNS3).
GNS3 only works with software-based IOS platforms like the 3600,3700,7200, etc. You won't be able to run a switch IOS on it.
Here's the config:
no aaa new-model
username jediatzinger privilege 15 secret LetMeIn
line vty 0 15
login local
no password
transport input telnet
This will give you telnet access. If you want SSH access you also need to generate a cert and make a few other tweaks:
hostname mySwitch
ip domain-name foo.com
crypto key generate rsa general-usage modulus 1024
ip ssh time-out 60
ip ssh version 2
line vty 0 15
transport input telnet ssh
I've had a busy couple weeks and hadn't had a chance to pick back up on this... I'm back on it and I've got more questions. Seriously... thanks to those of you here that provide feedback and help. It's greatly appreciated. I'm learning lots here from you all.
Before I try and understand all of this are my switches capable of SSH? I had thought about this previously wondering if all this would be in vain?
Cisco Catalyst 2960-S
Product ID: WS-C2960S-48LPS-L
Software: 12.2(53)SE2
I don't know how I could verify? On my ASA the IOS I upgraded had a k9 name in it... I haven't upgraded my switches IOS so I don't know. I'm pretty sure the k9 means it supports crypto (correct me if I'm wrong).
Assuming it does (that could be a big assumption - but for now I'll go with it). You (Pervis) and the Cisco documentation are telling me that I need to setup BOTH Telnet and SSH then specify "only use SSH"... right? That seems odd to me that you have to setup telnet then tell the switch not to use it. Can't you just setup SSH directly? I have to be missing something...
This example shows local authentication, which lets you Telnet into the router with username "cisco" and password "cisco."
aaa new-model
username cisco password 0 cisco
line vty 0 4
transport input telnet
In order to test authentication with SSH, you have to add to the previous statements in order to enable SSH.
ip domain-name rtp.cisco.com
crypto key generate rsa
ip ssh time-out 60
ip ssh authentication-retries 2
If you want to prevent non-SSH connections, add the transport input ssh command under the lines to limit the router to SSH connections only.
line vty 0 4
transport input ssh
Local authentication is what I want to use. I'm not using any RADIUS, or other authentication mechanism. I'm the only one accessing these switches (although security is important and I want to set it up right). When I log into my ASA over SSH I use the username "asa" and then enter my SSH password. Do I need to specify a username and password? I have set a password, but that is for EXEC mode. I didn't set "asa" as a username for my ASA (I kept all my config notes and configuration files). Is this different than the ASA SSH setup?
Also why does Cisco use "line vty 0 4" and you specify "line vty 0 15"? This isn't a line I've used before so I'm cautious about it.
Sorry for the long post.
Wouldn't this do what I'm wanting?
switch(config)# cry key gen rsa
switch(config)# ip ssh time-out 30
switch(config)# ip ssh version 2
switch(config)# line vty 0 4
switch(config)# transport input ssh
jediatzinger wrote:
Wouldn't this do what I'm wanting?
switch(config)# cry key gen rsa
switch(config)# ip ssh time-out 30
switch(config)# ip ssh version 2
switch(config)# line vty 0 4
switch(config)# transport input ssh
Yes, if you have authentication configured, a domain name configured on the switch, and a non-default hostname (some platforms only?). I only skimmed but the longer code snippet was helping you add these prereqs.
vty is a virtual terminal. 0 15 means 16 vtys. Won't hurt anything, just allows more simultaneous connections
Do a "show version" to get the actual IOS filename and see if it has a k8 or k9 tag in it.
Cisco references "vty 0 4" because that's the old standard. Older devices were preconfigured with 4 virtual terminal lines. Newer devices are preconfigured with 16, but the IOS configuration will split them into two ranges, 0-4, 5-15. Completely normal now.
I'd highly recommend you use the "aaa new-model" method.


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Otto Wood - singing squares
Caller Otto Wood's calls and notes for singing squares. You can hear Belle of the Ball called by Ira Huntley here; it's the second dance in the set of three on this link.This collection was created by storyteller and dance caller Donald Davis, and are included here with his permission. Davis writes, "What you have are copies of the notes and music…
Tags: Animal Fair, Belle of the Ball, Chinese Breakdown, Down South, Girl I Left Behind Me, Hurry Hurry Hurry, If You Knew Susie, IRISH WASHERWOMAN, Just Because, Louisiana Swing, Oh Lonesome Me, Otto Wood, Red River Valley, singing square, SOLOMON LEVI, Too Old To Cut the Mustard, Trail of the Lonesome Pine, Tulsa Square, You Call Everybody Darling


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No. 5
In 2011, the world marked three decades of AIDS. It was June 5, 1981, that the Centers for Disease Control first reported on five cases in which otherwise healthy young men, all gay, had been treated for pneumocystis carinii pneumonia at three separate Los Angeles hospitals since the previous October, with two of them dying of the disease. A month later, on July 4, the CDC reported on 26 cases of Kaposi's sarcoma, again all in gay men, within the previous 30 months, with eight of the patients having died. As scientists struggled to find the cause, the plague became known as GRID, or gay-related immune deficiency syndrome.
But it wasn't until a year later — on June 27, 1982 — that the term AIDS, or acquired immune deficiency syndrome, was coined. Human immunodeficiency virus — HIV — wouldn't be discovered until 1983 by Institut Pasteur in France, and it was identified as the cause of AIDS by Dr. Robert Gallo in the U.S.
By 2011, more than 25 million people worldwide had died of AIDS, and new infections continue, with men who have sex with men once again leading in terms of new infections, according to the CDC.
Despite the frightening infection rates, federal funding for HIV/AIDS services is dwindling, with community-based AIDS service organizations struggling to find new ways to raise money, offer services and educate the public. One North Texas organization, AIDS Resources of Rural Texas based in Weatherford, announced in July that it could no longer keep its head above water and would be closing its doors as of Sept. 1.
Most clients who had been accessing services at ARRT were absorbed by the Tarrant County AIDS Outreach Center in Fort Worth, where Executive Director Allan Gould pledged to continue to provide services to its growing client base, despite increasing cuts in federal and state funds.
In late September, AOC announced its intention to partner with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, based in Los Angeles, to open an AIDS clinic in 2012. On World AIDS Day, AHF officials and basketball legend Magic Johnson announced that the planned AOC clinic would be one of three Magic Johnson clinics opening in the next year.
Observances of the 30th anniversary of the AIDS epidemic worldwide began in early 2011, while in North Texas, the first such commemoration came in late June when Dallas Voice and a host of partner organizations and business presented a public forum focusing on the status of HIV treatments today. On July 1, Dallas Voice published a special issue, AIDS@30, focusing on current treatments, research and education efforts, as well as profiles on individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
AIDS service organizations joined together for World AIDS Day commemorations on Dec. 1, including a display of panels from the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt in downtown Dallas, and on Dec. 6, Charles Santos spearheaded The Gathering, an unprecedented collaboration of performing artists from around North Texas who donated their time to a performance at The Winspear Opera House. About 1,000 people attended the event, which raised more than $60,000 for local AIDS service organizations.
— Tammye Nash
This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition December 30, 2011.


text: I want ot make al my gifts this year. Since I began quilting, that is all I wish to do! Go figure, right? Well, I have a girl int he family who loves board games, so I thought I'd make a quilted checker board and make the chips from Yo yo's. Does anyone know of any other quilted games to make? I've seen the Sudoku quilt's, I thought about making a grid board and keep the 9 sets of 9 blocks separate so you could have a different game each time. Any ideas?


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To complete the failover process, the Directory Server Plugin is re-enabled on each Directory Server, which ensures:
The plugins running on the masters use the encryption key from the failover installation to encrypt password changes.
All directory servers receive updated on-demand password synchronization configuration
Logging done by the plugins is sent to the Central Logger of the failover installation.
The plugins must be re-enabled in this order:
Failover installation's preferred master.
Failover installation's secondary master.
All other masters.
All read-only replicas.
The order in which the Directory Server Plugins are enabled is important. If they are enabled in the wrong order, on-demand synchronization requests could loop between two masters, tying up all Directory Server connections.
When re-enabling the plugins, make sure to specify the configuration directory of the failover installation, for example, config-eu.gt.com
This reinstallation procedure can be automated by doing more work ahead of time:
Install the Directory Server Plugins for the Failover configuration.
Export the plugins' configuration for each master from the cn=pswsync,cn=plugins,cn=config tree and it includes two entries.
Re-enable the Directory Server Plugins for the Primary configuration.
To failover:
Delete the cn=pswsync,cn=plugins,cn=config tree.
Add the failover installation entries using ldapmodify.
Restart the directory server.