text:
Officials 'asleep' on nursing care
AGED-CARE advocates fear criminals are exploiting a legal loophole to gain control of nursing homes without undergoing background checks.
Consumer group Aged Care Crisis has questioned how Melbourne businessman Stephen George Snowden, a convicted criminal and former bankrupt, managed to gain control of five Victorian nursing homes through his company, Cambridge Aged Care.
It has repeatedly warned the Department of Health and Ageing that criminals can acquire nursing homes without scrutiny as long as the centre already had approved status and the appointed managers did not have a criminal history.
Aged Care Crisis spokeswoman Lynda Saltarelli said the department was ''asleep at the wheel'' regarding Mr Snowden.
Mr Snowden was facing a charge of obtaining financial advantage by deception in 2011 when he became director of Berkeley Living Group Pty Ltd, offering retirement living and aged care. He later pleaded guilty to that charge.
Berkeley Living Group was placed into administration last year, before Mr Snowden became director of Cambridge Aged Care. Mr Snowden has previously denied any wrongdoing in relation to Cambridge.
On Tuesday, inspectors from the Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency made an announced visit to one of the homes in the Cambridge Group, Rosewood Mews in Greensborough, which is home to 35 residents.
An agency spokesman said heightened monitoring of all Cambridge nursing homes had been in place for ''some months''.
Fairfax Media revealed on Tuesday that Jack Smit, former business partner of underworld figure Tony Mokbel, has an interest in one Cambridge Aged Care home, Woodhaven Lodge, in Croydon North.
It has also been alleged that Mr Snowden received $1.8 million in payments from the nursing homes' trust account.
Dr Michael Wynne, a retired surgeon and lobbyist for Aged Care Crisis, said nursing home staff were under more scrutiny than their owners.
''While nursing staff are barred if they have criminal records, the suitability and criminality of owners is regarded as irrelevant,'' he wrote in a letter on the Aged Care Crisis website. ''Nurse aides receive more scrutiny so we must assume that they are seen as a greater threat.''
Ms Saltarelli said more scrutiny was applied to people applying to run restaurants, pubs or bottle shops.
The Combined Pensioners and Superannuants Association of NSW raised concerns about the Department of Health and Ageing's background check on owners.
''These reports call into question the Department of Health and Ageing's vetting process of individuals and companies to care for older, vulnerable people,'' senior policy adviser Charmaine Crowe said.
''New owners take over a home and new management is employed, and then staff are cut and substandard care follows.''
A spokeswoman for the department said Cambridge was formed by the purchase of four approved providers and the Aged Care Act did not directly regulate such changes in ownership.
But she said the department was concerned about Mr Snowden's alleged involvement and this ''matter is under investigation''.
Get the Morning Edition
Sign up for our daily wrap of the news you need to start your day.


text:
KEXP Reviews
|Browse by one of the following:
- (Merge)
While this Austin pop-rock band has mellowed a bit through the years, the song craft of frontman Britt Daniel continues to deepen. Their fifth album is one of their best yet, adding more musical colors to the stark sound of 2002's Kill the Moonlight (including some shades of blue-eyed soul and funk) while Daniel contributes one of his strongest sets of songs to date. 4/4/2005 - Don Yates
Other Spoon album reviews:
They Want My Soul - 8/1/2014
Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga - 6/19/2007
Kill the Moonlight - 8/15/2002
Girls Can Tell - 2/15/2001
A Series Of Sneaks - 4/15/1998
Telephono - 5/15/1996

subset: commoncrawl


text:
27.0203 Accounting.Cite as [A.S.A.C. § 27.0203]
The financial affairs of the park and the commission shall be established and maintained in an Enterprise Fund within the ASG financial management system (hereinafter called the "fund") regarding all revenues and disbursements. The treasurer shall maintain the accounts as Fund 435 and shall maintain proper records of expenditures charged to MACC 740357. He shall also render advice and assistance regarding matters pertaining to the fund.History: Rule 4-77, eff 14 Sep 77, § 3.


text:
Puzzle Plus-Up
Enjoy up to 15% off all puzzles!
Add to your collection with 10% off 2 puzzles, and 15% off 3 or more! Code PUZZLEME must be entered at checkout for the discount to apply. Offer valid through 1/29/18 while supplies last. No rain checks. Only at MelissaAndDoug.com
Ready to play?
Free shipping on orders $49+
Everyone loves a great free shipping deal! Just fill your cart with at least $49 of fun (so easy!), make sure you're not shipping your order to Alaska, Hawaii, or other non-contiguous U.S locations, and bask in the satisfaction of scoring free shipping! Please note, free shipping is applied to the order subtotal after discounts (and before oversized item fees, shipping fees and taxes). Please note that certain very large or very heavy items are subject to an Oversized Item fee of $10.50 (or $16.00 for a handful of SUPER oversized items).
Time to Play
Check out the eye-opening insights on children and play revealed by our study with Gallup!
Let's arrange a playdate
Join our family to get email offers, news, and tips!
Inspiration starts here
Check out our blog for Countless Ways to Play!
Learn more about the couple behind the toys!
Discover how we're championing childhood wonder!
See results from our study with Gallup on kids and play!
Let's go way, way back to hear how it all began.
My Account
Give us a call!
We won't bite.
Puzzle Sets
Toddler & Preschool
Join our email playlist for new arrivals, tips, and…


text:
Wednesday, Jan. 2
John Graves & Friends, jazz/standards, 5 p.m., Nellos Bistro & Espresso Bar, 135 County Center Road, Pagosa Springs, 731-9899.
Greg Ryder, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave., 375-7150.
Terry Rickard, 7 p.m., Office Spiritorium, 699 Main Ave., 375-7560.
Joel Racheff, 7 p.m., Derailed Saloon, 725 Main Ave., 247-5440, www.derailedsaloon.com.
Pub quiz, 8:30 p.m., Irish Embassy Pub, 900 Main Ave., 403-1200.
Thursday, Jan. 3
First Thursdays Art Walk, 5-8 p.m., downtown galleries, www.DurangoArts.org.
Chili Night with ABQ Sound System (ska), 5 p.m., Ska Brewing Co., 225 Girard St., 247-5792, www.skabrewing.com.
Lisa Blue Trio, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave., 375-7150.
Caitlin Cannon, 7 p.m., Derailed Saloon, 725 Main Ave., 247-5440, www.derailedsaloon.com.
Robby Overfield, 7 p.m., Office Spiritorium, 699 Main Ave., 375-7560.
Karaoke, 8 p.m., 8th Avenue Tavern, 509 East Eighth Ave., 259-8801
Salsa Night, 9 p.m., Moes, 937 Main Ave., 259-9018.
The Lost Dog Art Spectacle featuring Gunnar Conrad, through Jan. 4, Lost Dog Bar & Lounge, 1150 Main Ave., 259-0430.
Nancy Richmond and Brian Brown, abstract photography, through Jan. 13, ENO, 723 East Second Ave., 385-0105.
Southside Artisans Guild presents an exhibit of prints by Julian Musliuc, through Monday, Raider Ridge Cafe, 509 East Eighth Ave., 375-9727.
Durango Photography Club featuring Sonya Johnson, Yvonne Lashmett and MaryAnne Nelson, through Jan. 3, Rochester Hotel, 726 East Second Ave., 385-1920.
The Art of it All, all media national juried exhibition, through Jan. 13, Shy Rabbit Contemporary Arts, 333 Bastille Drive, Pagosa Springs, 731-2766, www.shyrabbit.com.
Far Out
Jay and Silent Bob Get Old, Jan. 31, $29-$39, Community Concert Hall at FLC, 247-7657, www.durangoconcerts.com.
Durango Film, an Independent Film Festival, Feb. 27 March 3, 375-7779, www.Durangofilm.org.
Submit events at www.durangoherald.com/section/eventsubmit, or fax, mail or deliver a listing for your event to the Herald no later than noon Wednesday for the coming week. Ted Holteen is compiling the calendar: Email him at email@example.com.


text:
From the Watch (Samantha Wright):
Council unanimously approved a resolution supporting a $35,000 water efficiency grant application to the Colorado Water Conservation Board to help pay for the development and implementation of a Water Efficiency Plan. The plan was mandated by the Colorado Division of Water Resources last summer, when Ouray's water supply was called by downstream senior water users.
The ultimate purpose of the Water Efficiency Plan, according to the grant application authored by the city's water consultant Wright Water Engineers, is to develop a program to better meter water usage and reduce future water demand through multiple steps including leak detection and repair programs; landscape irrigation programs; educational programs on water use; plumbing fixture ordinances and programs and a commitment to track and report progress and make adjustments as needed.
A recent study conducted by Wright Water Engineers showed that residential use accounts for 71 percent of Ouray's water demand, and that residents use more water than the national average. In implementing the Water Efficiency Plan, the goal is to lower per capita water demands by at least 10 percent over the next decade.
More infrastructure coverage here.


text:
What are the job responsibilities of an Adjudicator ? What does an individual in this position get paid in Georgia?
Here is the position summary for Adjudicator as found in BLR's Salary Finder:
Conduct hearings to decide or recommend decisions on claims concerning government programs or other government-related matters and prepare decisions. Determine penalties or the existence and the amount of liability, or recommend the acceptance or rejection of claims, or compromise settlements.
In Georgia, the midpoint of salaries reported for the position (50th percentile) is $97,306. The 75th percentile (the rate below which 75% of salary data falls) is $126,679. The 25th percentile (the rate below which 25% of the data falls) is $54,478.
Get full salary data for Adjudicator , including data for your industry, geographic region or metro area and employer size. Get full access to your detailed salary information now!
How much should you pay an Adjudicator ?
Compensation.BLR.com, a leading provider of compensation data, scores this job as exempt (not entitled to overtime). According to Compensation.BLR.com's rate ranges, grade 37 has a minimum of $63,755. The midpoint is $85,006, and the maximum is $106,258.
How much should an employer be paying an Adjudicator in Georgia? It depends on many factors, but the most important are the experience and skills of the employee or applicant. Answer these questions: How much experience does he or she have? How highly skilled is he or she? Then, use the table below. Interpolate as necessary.


text:
During a visit from long time friends we had a great dinner at Nero's. Good food and atmosphere always. We so enjoyed ourselves we even had desert.
The good food must have went to our heads because when we got home we realized our friend left her purse at our table.
We called Nero's and found that they we holding the purse for her. They met us the next day before business hours to return the purse fully intact.
We want to thank the waitress and managers for their honesty and graciousness in meeting us on their time.
Thank you, and we'll be back again and again.
Carolyn Keene


text:
Koraleski made these remarks in a Reuters interview at the New York Stock Exchange, where he rang the closing bell in celebration of the railroad's 150th birthday.
He also said: "Coal looks like it has hit the bottom and is starting to come back up," and the upcoming peak season appears to be shaping up "a little better than last year.
Reuters noted that UP shares are up 12% this year vs. a 9% increase in the S&P 500.


text: P: M118 or consent of department. Emphasizes mathematical thinking, problem solving, and the development of adult-level perspectives about the nature of the mathematics content taught in elementary school. Topics include number/numeration, whole number operations, real numbers (particularly integers and rationals), topics in number theory, measurement, and informal geometry. Open only to education majors. I Sem., II Sem.


text:
"Honestly, they're probably one of, if not the best team in our conference," Howerton said. "They were definitely more physical than us tonight, especially in the second half."
Russellville kept the score close through the first half, 22-18, but fell behind in the second during their 41-28 loss to the Panthers inside Whirlwind Gymnasium.
After trailing 13-10 in the first quarter, despite two 3-pointers by Ryan Talley, the Whirlwinds managed to tie the game 13-13 early in the second.
Greenbrier went on a 4-0 run to make the score 20-13, but the Whirlwinds answered with a 5-0 run of their own to make it 20-18. The Panthers scored once more before the buzzer to make the score 22-18 going into the half.
Greenbrier widened their spread to 10 points in the third, while Russellville only scored four points throughout the quarter. Despite the point disparity, Howerton said the Whirlwinds played harder against the Panthers than they have in several weeks.
"That's one positive thing we can take away," he said. "We have to rely on a lot of eighth-graders and the pace and quickness of the game is hard to get used to."
Talley scored 14 points throughout the night. Gunnar Howerton scored eight and Michael Campbell scored four.
Russellville will play next on Jan. 2 in the Van Buren tournament.
East JG 20, Greenbrier 16
The Russellville Junior High Eastside Lady Whirlwinds defeated the Greenbrier Junior Panthers 20-16 on Thursday inside Whirlwind Gymnasium.
Russellville trailed 7-6 at halftime, but outscored the Junior Lady Panthers 14-9 in the second to claim the victory. Ariston Gray led the East in scoring with six points. Bailey Wilbers scored four. Bailey Schrepfer, Brianna Basinger and Sabra Farrow each scored two points.
The Lady Whirlwinds will play next on Jan. 6 at Beebe.


text:
|International Space Station Imagery
high res (0.8 M) low res (107 K)
|201311050014hq (5 Nov. 2013) --- The Soyuz TMA-11M rocket is rolled out to the launch pad by train Nov. 5, 2013, at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. Launch of the Soyuz rocket is scheduled for Nov. 7, Kazakh time, and will send Expedition 38 Soyuz Commander Mikhail Tyurin of Roscosmos, Flight Engineer Rick Mastracchio of NASA and Flight Engineer Koichi Wakata of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency on a six-month mission aboard the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Bill Ingalls
Curator: JSC PAO Web Team | Responsible NASA Official: Amiko Kauderer | Updated: 11/05/2013


text:
Luxe Faux Fur Backpack
- No Longer Available -
Playful yet practical, this backpack is sewn from our luxurious faux fur with ears at the top for added character. Expertly woven from finely spun strands, it captures the natural weight, depth of color and indulgent softness of genuine fur.
More Details & Dimensions +
Click to Zoom
Product Not Available
We're sorry. This product is no longer available
Please continue browsing.


text:
Im not a fan of theories but this popped into my cranium so im posting it.
I figure the same way sasuke only had to see his bro die to get his MS
(cuz we all know sasuke didnt kill itachi) Kakashi might've gotten his MS just by seeing obito or rin die and he never tried it out till shippuden. Im really not seeing any other ways as to how he got his MS, dammit tell us Kishi


text:
Canvas first aid kit, Germany, 1914-1918
The inscription on the front of this German first aid kit translates as "First aid-bag for airplanes". Used by the German Air Force during the First World War, the kit contains several bandages and a bottle of anti-tetanus serum. Tetanus is usually acquired through wound infections, and causes muscles to go rigid from the jaw downwards throughout the whole body. Aeroplanes were initially used by all sides for scouting and spying rather than as fighters or bombers – a situation that changed as the war progressed.
Object number:
Related Themes and Topics
Related Objects
There are 823 related objects. View all related objects
Glossary: first aid kit
A kit designed to give help to an injured person until proper medical treatment is available
Glossary: burns
tissue damage caused by such agents as heat, cold, chemicals, electricity, ultraviolet light, or nuclear radiation. A first-degree burn affects only the outer layer (epidermis) of the skin. In a second-degree burn both the epidermis and the underlying dermis are damaged. A third-degree burn involves damage or destruction of the skin to its full depth and damage to the tissues beneath. Burns cause swelling and blistering, due to loss of plasma from damaged blood vessels.
Glossary: first aid
Treatment that is rendered initially for the care of an emergent condition. It is usually performed by a lay person to a sick or injured patient until definitive medical treatment can be accessed
Glossary: tetanus
An acute infectious disease, affecting the nervous system. Infection generally occurs through contamination of a wound. Symptoms include a locked jaw, arching of the back or neck and the inability to urinate.


text:
Contact Info: Dr. Ai-Chu Wu, Darwin 114M, email@example.com, (707) 664-4117 x3.
Office Hours: Darwin 114M, TuTh: 10 - 10:40 am, MW: 2-3 p.m. I will always be there for you.
We trust that we
will all do our best. TEAM = Together each achieves more.
We strive for highest quality. We try to have fun as we learn.
Everyone contributes to a positive learning environment.
PhD, Population
Ecology, Statistics focus, UI Chicago
Master of Public Health, Biostatistics, UC Berkeley
Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Biostatistics, UC Berkeley
Sonoma State University, MATH 35, 45, 107, 131, 165, 250,
265, 367.
Founder and Consultant, Ai-Chu Wu, Ph. D. Statistical Consulting
Senior Quality and Statistical Consultant, Quality Program Manager, HP/Agilent
Learn when and how to apply linear models, linear programming, sets and counting, probability, statistics, and the mathematics of finance (interest, annuities, and amortization) to solve real-world problems.
Develop self-learning, critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills.
Prerequisite: Intermediate Algebra including linear equations, interpretations of functions and areas bounded by curves, and inequalities.
Finite Mathematics: An Applied Approach, by Michael Sullivan (2008), 10th ed., John Wiley & Sons. Get a used book as soon as possible. Preview the topics covered and identify your questions before each lecture.
Calculator: Use TI83 (or plus) or TI84 (or plus) for class activities and exams.
Web Resources:
Moodle: syllabus, lecture notes and slides, homework guidelines, etc.
Fun Statistics Applets: http://statweb.calpoly.edu/bchance/applets/applets.html
Library Resources:
Calculator Manual
Review - quizzes, questions and answers.
Lecture - key points, examples, and applications.
Practice - individual and team show and tell.
Expectations: before, during, and after every class.
Preview textbook and try homework exercises before lecture.
Arrive on time and pay 100% attention.
Turn off cell phones, earphones and other distracting devices.
Speak up whenever you have suggestions or questions.
Be responsible for materials covered in every class.
Form a study group to think, show, and tell finite mathematics.
Use technology: Moodle and TI calculator.
Use help: Free one-on-one SSU tutor and my office hours.
Lecture and Homework Schedule: Click
GE Requirements: This course fulfills one General Education (GE) requirement. The GE Mission and objectives are at http://www.sonoma.edu/senate/gefuture/.
Participation = 10%, Quiz = 20%, Three Midterm Exams = 50%, Final Exam = 20%.
Make sure that you can take all exams before adding this class.
A = 90%, B+ = 87%, B = 80%, C+ = 77%, C = 70%, D+ = 67%, D = 60%, F = below 60%.
Policy: Math and Statistics Department
has a policy at:
All exams are written in class. No makeup for homework, quiz, and exam.
I drop two lowest quizzes and participation. I also use the final exam to replace the lowest midterm exam, if it is better than the midterm.
University Policies:
Special Needs:
Please let me know in the first week if you have any special needs.
Jan. 3, 2012 by acw.


text:
[RELATED: Find out about our November event that has instruction for your entire communications team.]
"This is the thinking that most progressive people have. They may not be going through the same thing in their life, but the ad makes a bold, progressive, statement and people like to be associated with brands that make such statements."
He added that the agency was conscious of the way the ad was shot to ensure that it did not come across too strongly. From the casting of the actors "it had to look like a marriage of equals, not something that was done out of pity," to the execution of the ad, to ensure that it looked like a small, cozy wedding. "We didn't want it to look like we were trying to make a point," said Iyer.
Home | Social Media | Media Relations | Crisis | Marketing | Writing & Editing | Events | Training | Awards | Videos
Ragan.com | HealthCareCommunication.com | Ragan Consulting | RaganTraining.com | PR-University.com
About Us | Contributors | Contact Us | Host a PR Daily Event | Sponsorship | Custom Workshop | Custom Content
FAQ | RSS | Store | Privacy Policy | Site Map


text:
Mr. Albinson is survived by his wife, Jo Ellen Moss Robberson Albinson; his son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Alissa Albinson; and his step-children, Gail Pinion and husband, Craig Pinion, and Michael Robberson.
He also leaves behind two granddaughters, Lauren and Rachel Albinson; seven step-grandchildren, Josh, Justin, Sarah, Chrissy, Shelby, Joseph and Lilyanna. He was predeceased by his parents, Alvin and Alma; his sisters, Bernice, Bonnie and Marion; and his first wife, Virginia Fae Mathews Albinson.
Al grew up in Bartow, Fla., and attended the University of Florida before moving to Hot Springs with his family. After helping his father build The Mountainaire Resort, Al enlisted in the Navy and served in World War II. He then served in the Air Force during the Korean War. Upon returning to Hot Springs, he joined the Air National Guard where he served more than 20 years before retiring as Lt. Colonel and Commanding Officer (1973-1981) of the 223d Combat Communications Squadron. During this time he also served as nursing home administrator when the Mountainaire was converted to a nursing home.
Al served as an alderman for the city of Hot Springs during the late 60s. He was a dedicated Boy Scout leader for his son's troop for several years. After selling the Mountainaire, Al owned and operated Bix Furniture Stripping where he was the self-proclaimed "best stripper in Hot Springs". He was a member of Pullman Heights Methodist Church. He served as secretary/treasurer of the Mid-Week Men's Bowling League at Central Bowling Lanes in Hot Springs for over 20 years and is listed in the National Bowling Hall of Fame. Al's favorite pastimes were fishing, needlepoint and working jigsaw puzzles.
Pallbearers will be, Don Burnham, John LaFave, Elmer Padgett, Mark Worsham, Casterdale Harden, Don Smith, Jason Campbell and Steve Grim.
Honorary pallbearers will be, Larry Gowen, Bob Woody, Don Cheek, Jack Smith, Doyle Smith, Josh Avery, Justin Avery, Matt Nanak, Mike Robertson, Dr. John Bond, Ted from United Medical, members of the Pullman Heights Methodist Church and all members and former members of the Arkansas Air National Guard 223rd Combat Communication Squadron.
Memorials in lieu of flowers can be made to Pullman Heights Methodist Church in Hot Springs.
Visitation was held at Gross Funeral Home on Monday. Funeral services will be held 10 a.m. Tuesday at Gross Funeral Home with interment to follow with Military Honors in Oak Grove Cemetery.
Guest register at www.grossfuneralhome.com.


text:
Thanks for helping us sort this video!
Thanks for helping us associate the correct Pornstars to this video!
Ayúdanos: ¿Estas estrellas porno aparecen en este vídeo?
Pornstar Name:
God i would cum in her and get her pregnant
ow man echt geiler porn !
Isn't that the the news lady?
anyone has more videos of her
susan wo kommst du denn heer wenn ich fragen darf?
Gutes deep Throat am Anfang, wünschte Sie würde meinen Schwanz so blasen! Beste Stellung von Min. 18.32 bis 19.31!
Much too long interview, but excellent brilliant fucking. She's remarquable and fucks without any fault like it always should be. A dream of a woman with an outstanding cunnilingus..He has power to lift her up with his hands under her buttocks and is spanking and pierces her vagina with his shaft : spectacular position to fuck hard. Very good cumming in her mouth and good cleanng of the head cock.with her lips.. Bbrrrr ... that man must feel so good, but the lady too.
Good-looking, sexy girl, nice ass and pussy, fucks like a champ, gives a sweet blowjob, and swallows every drop she can get into her mouth with a smile.That's a keeper. Hard to find fault with her.
Gostava mesmo muito de ver Minha Mulher a foder como os constantes deste video é maravilhoso
I love that pinga :)
She is quite fabulous. More of her.
So cute & sexy with so tight pussy.. Whoa!
I wish i could be in her place to get such a fuck and i love his cock especialy the cock head that is beautiful
so this was made in 2000? she was born in 1982 and shes 18...
what a cock!!!!!!!!!! This guy is so handsome that makes me WETTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT
come incontrarci
Some errors occurred, please try again later
Sign up for a free account and make YouPorn yours!
Subscribe to your favorite pornstars, channels, and collections


text:
|Assistant AD/Sports Information Director
|West Hartford, CT
|High School:
|Northwest Catholic
Tim Bourret is in his 38th season with the Clemson Sports Communications Department. For 24 years he served as director of the department. Today he is the Football Communications Director. He first came to Clemson as assistant SID under Bob Bradley in September of 1978 and was elevated to an associate SID position in July of 1980.
In 2009, the Clemson Sports Information Office was named to the Football Writers Assocation "Super 11" Team. The award recognized the top 11 SID offices in the nation for their service in working with media covering college football. The SID Office won the award again in 2010 and was one of just five schools nationally to be a Super 11 office each of the last two years.
The 59-year old Bourret has edited over 100 award-winning brochures in his career at Clemson, including 37 that have dealt with Tiger football.
Bourret was a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference 50-Year Anniversary Committee and is also the regional chairman of the College Football Hall of Fame voting process.
Bourret also has considerable radio experience, play-by-play and color. He has been the color voice of Clemson basketball since the 1980-81 season and served in the same capacity for Clemson football between 1982 and 1988.
His 35 years of broadcasting Clemson basketball make him the dean of color commentators in any sport in the Atlantic Coast Conference. He gave up his football radio work to supervise the Clemson press box when Bob Bradley retired in 1989. He was also the play-by-play voice of Tiger postseason baseball (1980-89).
Bourret broadcast his 1,000th Clemson basketball game on Feb. 10, 2015 when the Tigers played host to Notre Dame, Bourret's alma mater.
He was honored in 2003 when he was asked by the Phillips' family to provide the play-by-play duties of the Clemson-Middle Tennessee game, the first game after Jim Phillips' death. Overall, Phillips and Bourret broadcast over 600 Clemson athletic events.
In November of 2007, he was made an honorary alumnus of Clemson University by the Clemson Alumni Association.
Bourret is a native of West Hartford, CT and 1973 graduate of Northwest Catholic High School. Following in his late father's footsteps, Bourret earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame in business administration in 1977. He also earned his master's degree in communication arts from Notre Dame in August of 1978.
Bourret worked as an undergraduate and graduate assistant under Roger Valdiserri in Notre Dame's office for three years. He also served as commissioner of the school's famed "Bookstore Basketball Tournament" for three years, including the year it was featured in Sports Illustrated.
He joined former Notre Dame basketball Coach Digger Phelps and Sport's Illustrated's John Walters as co-authors of the book "Basketball for Dummies." It was originally released by IDG Books in 1997. A second version of the book was released in 2000 and a third version was published in September of 2011.
He is also the author of Digger Phelps' Tales from the Notre Dame Hardwood, a book that was released in September, 2004 and republished in 2015. In October of 2008, he authored "The Vault - Clemson Football," a history of Clemson football that was published by Whitman Publishing of Atlanta, GA.
In addition to handling the media relations tasks for Clemson football, Bourret is also the Chairman of the Clemson Ring of Honor Committee and has covered Clemson's National Championship golf program for 37 years.


text:
You won't catch us turning down chocolates and flowers, but in our book, nothing says "I love you" quite like a big sharp knife or a functional pot. Seriously! Diamonds aren't the only thing that's forever—Le Creuset dutch ovens will last for generations and knife kits are many a cook's most treasured possession. Whether you're ready to drop the big bucks or just looking for something that says, "I care about you, and you care about food," we've got 13 top-of-the-line kitchen tools to help you find your way.
A Large Enameled Dutch Oven
A Dutch oven is the best vessel for anything that requires some heavy searing followed by gentle, even cooking—slow-cooked braises like pot roast, carne adovada, or better-than-Chipotle's barbacoa. It's also handy for soups, like spicy pork, green pepper, and pork soup, hearty escarole and barley, or roasted cauliflower and barley. And, of course, it's great for the best chili ever.
You can't beat the durability, good looks, and cooking power of a French-made Le Creuset. It heats the most evenly, sears the best, and lasts the longest. At over $300, it's not a cheap toy, but it'll last your lucky giftee a lifetime. Upgrade it with a stainless steel replacement handle to make it oven safe at high temperatures for recipes like no-knead bread
If you're looking for something a little less pricey, Lodge makes a fine enameled Dutch oven ($80) that consistently scores well in professional reviews, though we haven't found it to be quite as durable.
The Splash-Proof Thermapen
A good instant-read thermometer is the only way to ensure that roasts, steaks, chops, or burgers come out that perfect medium-rare every time. Forget about poking with a finger, relying on inaccurate timing guides, or the nick-and-peek method. Buy a high-quality, fast, accurate digital thermometer, and you'll never have a piece of over or undercooked meat again.
The Splash Proof Super-Fast Thermapen by Thermoworks has a hefty price tag, but it's money well-spent. It's head-and-shoulders above the competition with a stunning range of -58 to 572°F (-50 to 300°C), 1/10th of a degree precision, unparalleled accuracy, and a read time of under three seconds. Because of its wide range, you won't need a separate meat, candy, or deep-fry thermometer—a singe tool does all three tasks, and how.
Splashproof Thermapen
Your purchase helps support Serious Eats. Learn more
A Benriner Mandoline
The Benriner Japanese Mandoline Sliver makes short work of any slicing and julienning tasks. Forget about those fancy-pants $150 French models—they're heavy, bulky, a pain in the butt to clean, and with their straight blade, don't really do a great job.
The Benriner Mandoline Plus ($22.36), on the other hand, features a sharp, angled blade that cuts much more efficiently than the awkward straight blades or clumsy V-shaped cutters. Walk into any four-star restaurant, and we guarantee you'll find at least a couple Bennies—as they are affectionately called by line cooks—occupying a prominent place in the kitchen.
Plus faster slicing means more time to spend with each other, which on Valentine's Day is hopefully a good thing.
An Immersion Blender
For smaller, everyday blending tasks, an immersion hand blender is the best tool for the job and saves major clean-up time. It's great for puréeing soups directly in the pot or rapidly breaking up whole tomatoes into rough chunks for sauce. It can also be used it to make fool-proof beurre monté, or perfect two-person servings of whipped cream. Ever get annoyed at those stubborn large pieces of egg white you come across when breading food? Blend the eggs for a few seconds and they'll be perfectly uniform and smooth. You like that froth on your hot chocolate? Heat it up in the pot and buzz it to create a luxurious foam. Lumps in your bechamel? All gone. You can even make foolproof mayonnaise or hollandaise in just about a minute.
How about if you want to make just a few ounces of perfectly smooth cauliflower purée or a half-cup of fresh mayonnaise? Impossible with a regular blender or food processor. But with the sturdy plastic cup that ships with the Kitchenaid Immersion Hand Blender, small, real-life-sized portions of food are easy to prepare.
A Digital Food Scale
Did you know that depending on how you scoop up a cup of flour, its weight can vary by as much as 25 percent? No wonder the pizza dough that came out perfectly last week is suddenly too wet to handle this week. A good digital scale will make inaccuracies like that a thing of the past. A scale can also help you figure out how much moisture your chicken lost during roasting, or exactly how far you've reduced that stock. Hooray!
Things to look for in a good scale: at least 1 gram or 1/8th ounce accuracy, a capacity of at least seven to eight pounds, a tare (zero) function, measurements in both metric (gram) and imperial (pound) units, a large, easy-to-read display, and a flat design for storage.
The Oxo Good Grips Food Scale with Pull-out Display ($49.95) has got all of that, plus a neat pull-out display that allows you to read measurements with ease, even when weighing large, bulky items that would otherwise obscure the screen.
Metal Mixing Bowls
Wanna know why television cooks use glass mixing bowls? It's not because they're better than the more inexpensive metal version. It's for one reason only: metal bowls are too reflective and make life difficult for the camera operators. Go into any professional kitchen and you'll find that mixing bowls are exclusively metal. They're lighter, take up less space, and last longer (and yes, modern microwaves can even handle metal!).
If you've got access to a restaurant supply store, you'll find that the metal bowls are cheaper than anywhere else. If not, these Light Weight Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls ($28.25) come in a variety of useful sizes and will do just fine. And hey—they're shiny!
A Sous-Vide Circulator
There are a number of new low-price/high-quality water circulators on the market designed for cooking foods sous-vide. While our three favorites all do the job they're designed for, the Sansaire is not yet available and the Nomiku costs $100 more than the other options, which makes the Anova a very attractive option.
With a portable circulator like this, any pot or large container in your house becomes a restaurant-quality water bath that will give you unparalleled control over how your food is cooked. Check out our Sous-Vide 101 page for recipes and more info on how it works.
Wooden Spoons
A good wooden spoon is any cook's best friend. We've seen macho line cooks come close to tears when their favorite wooden spoon finally cracked in half after years of loyal, obedient service. Whether stirring sauces, tasting soups, or making the creamiest possible risotto, with rare exception, the wooden spoon is the the most essential hand tool for any cook. The Calphalon 3-Piece Wood Utensil Set ($12.21) gets you a round-headed one for stirring and tasting soup, a flat-headed one for scraping up fond and getting into the corners of pots, and a slotted spoon for lifting pasta or other food out of boiling water for testing.
A 10.5 or 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet
Whether you're searing a steak, sautéing some veggies, frying up a rösti or latkes, or even making a foolproof no-knead pan pizza, a heavy-duty, seasoned cast iron skillet is the pan to reach for. Its weight makes it ideal for retaining heat, while its ruggedness means that a single pan will outlive you (and most likely your children and grandchildren). Not bad for under $20, like Lodge's 10.25-inch Pre-Seasoned Skillet ($15.92).
You might have heard that cast iron is a pain in the butt to take care of. Not so! It's actually a lot more forgiving than people think. You only need to spend about 30 seconds each time you use your pan to wipe it dry, reheat it, and rub a little oil in. Heck, we even wash ours with soap and water! For more info, check out our guide to learn How to Buy, Season, Clean, and Maintain Cast Iron Pans.
NB: For more on pots and pans, check out our 7 Most Essential Pots and Pans here!
A Great Chef's Knife
If there's one question we get most often, it's this one: what is the best chef's knife?
The honest answer? There is no such thing as a "best chef's knife." It'd be like asking a violinist to name the "best violin" or an architect to identify the "best material." There are many factors that come into play, and depending on what type of cook you are and how your hands, body, and wallet are shaped, you might opt for one over another.
For maximum power, precision, and versatility, we recommend a Western-style chef's knife like the Wüsthof classic, known for its durability and nice balance. It's is the ideal knife for the serious home cook who does a lot of heavy-duty prep and needs a single knife that will perform well at everything from mincing herbs to hacking through a chicken carcass. But at the end of the day, it comes down to personal preference, hand size, and intended uses—for a full range of options, pay a visit to our complete guide to chef's knives.
A Wok
Whether you stir-fry or not, a wok is one of the most versatile tools in the kitchen. It's by far the best vessel for deep-frying; its wide shape and large volume make it easy to fit plenty of food in there with minimal contact and oil-use, with virtually no danger of splattering the stove-top with hot oil (or worse, overflowing). You can also smoke, braise, and steam in it. (Check out Wok Skills 101 for more info.)
You may have heard elsewhere that on Western stoves, a skillet is a better stir-frying vessel. This is not true. When tasted side-by-side, a stir-fry that comes out of a cast-iron wok tastes significantly better than one that comes out of a skillet, due to its shape, material, and the manner in which heat is transferred (a wok has a much larger hot area above and around the actual cooking surface, helping to produce that familiar smoky wok-hai flavor that is impossible to achieve in a flat skillet).
The downside: A wok will not work very well on an electric or induction burner. Take note.
Which one?: To be honest, any 1 1/2- to 2 mm gauge carbon steel wok will do the job, including the $15 chinatown kitchen supply versions, but the Joyce Chen Class Series comes with a domed lid (great for protecting yourself from particularly intense frying jobs) and a wooden spatula. You can ignore the 1-star comments on Amazon complaining of rusting. So long as you follow our care and maintenance guide, your wok
should will achieve a deep black, lustrous non-stick sheen within a few uses.
A Large Casserole Dish
Since they're intended both for cooking and serving tableside, a good casserole dish should be both functional and attractive. A good one should be made with high quality glazed ceramic, so not only do they heat foods evenly (and more importantly, store that heat so your food stays hot while you're trying to corral the family to the table), but their smooth glaze is practically non-stick, making them simple to clean up afterward, even with gooey foods like this Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna.
Which one? The Le Creuset Stoneware looks as beautiful as it performs.
Presto Pro Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker
You think to yourself, "A pressure cooker? That's for like making beans and stews and stock and stuff, right? I'm not going to use that every day." The reality is, once you get a pressure cooker, suddenly all of those things become everyday foods. Make stocks in half an hour. Cook beef to tender braised perfection in under an hour. Cook dry beans in 45 minutes. It's a staple of most South American kitchens for these very reasons, and there's no reason why you shouldn't use one in your own kitchen. While top-of-the-line models can set you back over $200, the Presto Pro Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker is sturdy and heavy-duty with a thick bottom for even cooking (I use it as a normal pot all the time), with a firmly locking lid that won't leave you thinking, "Is this going to blow?"


text:
Task Timer Light is a simple, lightweight time tracking utility that allows you to start and stop a timer for each task or project you are working on. It will work on your local computer (with no Web server required) if you don't need saving. You can also install it on your PHP-enabled hosting service, and it will save logged timers so that you can continue them later. It is designed for one person's use.
Security service validation and verification.
A portable SQLite wrapper library for C++.


text:
Remembering Johnny Cash: 10 Years Later
September 12, 2013 marks the one-decade anniversary of Johnny Cash's passing. Few musicians have had the impact the Man In Black has had on American popular culture, as well as popular music itself: Cash managed to stake his place in the Country Music, Gospel Music and Rock And Roll Halls of Fame over the span of his remarkable career.
Cash died at age 71, just four months after his wife of 35 years, June Carter Cash, passed away in May 2003. The official cause of death was marked as complications from diabetes, but many believe his broken heart contributed to his demise. He lies in rest next to June in Tennessee. Here's a look back remembering his amazing impact over his seven decades of life.


text:
The region was inhabited by white settlers from the mid-18th century. The county was created in 1811, its name meaning "hidden stream" in Dutch. Pottsville replaced Orwigsburg as the county seat in 1851. A murder trial in Pottsville in 1877 helped end a siege of terrorism allegedly carried out by the Molly Maguires, a secret society of Irish-American miners that sought improved working conditions in the coalfields. The Anthracite Museum of Ashland details the region's coal-mining heritage. Other communities include Tamaqua, Shenandoah, Mahanoy City, Schuylkill Haven, and Minersville.
Schuylkill county is the leading producer of anthracite coal in Pennsylvania. The chief manufactures are textiles, plastics, and metal products. Area 779 square miles (2,017 square km). Pop. (19902000) 152150,585336; (1996 2007 est.) 152147,630269.


text:
Uralvagonzavod, Russia-based OJSC and Bombardier Transportation reportedly have established a joint venture to manufacture streetcars for the world's largest nation, signing a letter of intent.
OJSC General Director Oleg Siyenko told RusBusinessNews that the joint venture wwill be established on a parity basis. Ural Transport Machine-Building Plant, OJSC, is a subsidiary of Uralvagonzavod and specializes in tram production.
Remember Me


text: This course comprises the fourth and last semester of the two-year Modern Greek program. The second part of the semester will be devoted to Modern Greek literature texts complemented by material from Greek newspapers and magazines; therefore, complex grammatical/syntactical forms and advanced vocabulary is required. Emphasis will be placed in class communication in Greek. Additionally, students will be asked to produce a good deal of writing in Greek.


text: Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country ends with the Federation and the Klingons signing the Khitomer Accords, thus leading into a new era of peace and cooperation between the two states. But TNG "Yesterday's Enterprise" earlier established that only 20+ years before the TNG era, relations between the Federation and the Empire were still pretty rocky and tenuous, with ties only really strengthening due to the sacrifice of the Enterprise-C in defending the Klingon colony from Romulan aggression. So how did they get from A to B, so to speak?


text:
46.3207 Responsibility for the conduct of another.Cite as [A.S.C.A. § 46.3207]
(a) A person is criminally responsible for the conduct of another when:
(1) the statute defining the offense makes him responsible; or
(2) either before or during the commission of an offense with the purpose of promoting the commission of an offense, he aids or agrees to aid or attempts to aid the other person in planning, committing or attempting to commit the offense.
(b) However, a person is not responsible if:
(1) he is the victim of the offense committed or attempted;
(2) the offense is so defined that his conduct was necessarily incident to the commission or attempt to commit the offense. If his conduct constitutes a related but separate offense, he is criminally responsible for that offense but not for the conduct or offense committed or attempted by the other person; or
(3) before the commission of the offense he abandons his purpose and gives timely warning to law enforcement authorities or otherwise makes proper effort to prevent the commission or the offense.
(c) The defense provided by paragraph (b) (3) is an affirmative defense.History: 1979, PL 16-43 § 2.
Research Guide: MCC 562.041, 15 ASC 2, 15 ASC 3, 15 ASC 4801.


text:
However, there still remains the question, "why does He not come and take us out to all this confusion, persecution and turmoil"? Then, like the words of an old song, "but wait a little longer, please, Jesus. There are so many wandering out in sin".
John tells us in Revelation that in the last days, world events will be occurring so fast and furious that men's hearts will fail, this is because of anxiety brought on by anticipating what will happen next. We need not wonder about these things.
As Christians, we have the light within us, telling us that God Does Things in His own time. Many of us seem to prefer looking at the artificial light and listening to the imitation voice. Jesus is the light. He the real light.
If we have Jesus in our heart, we will recognize The True Light and follow safely into the waiting arms of Jesus. According to the Scriptures, Jesus said, "My sheep hear My voice and I know them, and they follow Me," that Scripture that says "Men's hearts will fail" needs not apply to those who are followers of Jesus because we will know His voice and He knows us.
Many who are saved will become anxious and follow any light or any voice that promises hope. This is because they have not learned to recognize His voice. The only way to acquaint ourselves with His voice is through prayer, study and meditation on His word. If we know His word and his word is planted deeply in our hearts, we will recognize that Light and know His voice.
So, we know from that last statement that another prerequisite to recognizing His voice is having made a profession of faith and received Jesus as our personal savior. The world is changing so fast today that many are not able to fathom the changes. Because of the changes in the speed of travel, we can now go from one nation to another and the length of time it took not long ago to go from one city to another. This makes it easier for nations to wage war on their neighbors.
Many with whom I've counseled have told me of their fear that they will wake up one morning, citizens of another nation because of some sudden and unannounced attack. If we believed Jesus died for our sins and that he will someday return to claim His own, Can we not Just as easily believe that He is able to fulfill the prophecies of the last days. He said, "I will take you up out of great tribulation."
Faint not, Christian heart. Jesus is able to keep you and sustain you. Not one of His followers can be snatched from His Father's hands. When the apostle Paul was writing about the last days, he warned of things to come and how terrible they would be. However, he always ended the chapter with comforting words for Christians.
He wrote, "comfort ye one another with these words". That's enough to convince me that the warnings were not for the followers of Jesus. They were for Those whose hearts are hardened that they will not accept the salvation He offers. There are those who tell us that Christians should never have any fears.
That is not true. David had his fears, as did all of the early followers. However, we are given instructions on how to handle those fears. We are to take them lord and sincere prayer.
When Paul wrote, "comfort ye one another with theses words." We are given the responsibility of comforting one another the word of God. We are also told to approach the throne of God with boldness. We have a savior who not not only will rescue us out of great tribulation, but will also shield us from being subjected to more tribulation than we can handle.
I say again, "the heart of the Christian needs not fail because of the changing times." We have a shield and a comforter to the end of time and to beyond.
Bill Cloninger is a retired pastor. He currently attends Crow Mountain Baptist Church.


text:
As growing numbers of states across the country take up legislation that recognizes same-sex unions and marriages, a social sea change is under way. What was once a notion that Americans were largely uncomfortable sanctioning is becoming an increasingly unifying issue of fairness and respect. That is the right direction for the country to move, and the Colorado Legislature should contribute to the momentum by passing a measure recognizing same-sex civil unions.
Recent data collected from Public Policy Polling shows that Colorado voters are strongly supportive of civil union protections for same-sex couples – by a margin of 62 percent to 32 percent. That is a profound shift from 2006, when voters passed a ballot initiative banning same-sex marriage, either formal or common-law, in the state. While there can certainly be differences between the concepts of marriage and civil unions from religious perspectives or otherwise, the contractual obligations and benefits of each are relatively similar and extending those to all committed partnerships is an appropriate role for state government to take.
That is what Senate Bill 2, sponsored by Sen. Pat Steadman, D-Denver, would do. It would extend to same-sex couples a wide range of essential rights and responsibilities enjoyed by married couples in Colorado, including the ability to adopt children, enroll in health-insurance programs, receive survivor and family-leave benefits, and be involved in medical and other essential decision-making affecting partners in the union. It would also make members of civil unions financially responsible for one another.
The measure, which has passed through two Senate committees, including the Judiciary Committee where Sen. Ellen Roberts, R-Durango, broke from her party to join Democrats in supporting it, awaits action in the full Senate. A similar measure passed that chamber in the 2011 session but was killed in the House. This year's journey will likely prove similarly contentious, but growing public support of fairness for same-sex couples should bolster momentum for Senate Bill 2.
While the significant support indicated by the recent poll should encourage supporters of the measure, there is a less positive undercurrent in the findings: the divide between those who support same-sex unions and those who oppose it is highly partisan. While Democrats favor civil unions 83 percent to 13 percent, just 31 percent of Republicans support the practice and 61 percent oppose it. That is not necessarily surprising, given Republicans' traditionally conservative stance on social issues. It is time, though, for same-sex unions to transcend partisanship in Colorado and across the country.
The social benefit of supporting those who enter into committed relationships are many and should appeal to the most conservative voters. Such couples, regardless of their sex, provide a foundation from which stable families and caring communities develop. Those goals are worth pursuing for countless reasons that are only positive – from the individual to the societal level.
There are signs that the partisan divide is beginning to close, though. Despite the Public Policy Polling numbers, Republicans hardly universally oppose the notion. The Colorado Republican Party is holding its convention this weekend and civil unions are on the agenda for discussion. That, along with votes like that of Roberts, indicates the topic is one in political flux, and the gains made nationally in recognizing civil unions and gay marriage suggests that depoliticizing the concept of same-sex relationships is on the horizon, albeit somewhat distantly.
In the meantime, Colorado can contribute to this positive momentum by passing Senate Bill 2.


text:
A snarky, humorous, look at the BCS Nat Champ game.
" Half of the pleasure of watching SEC football, it seems, is reminding everyone else how good SEC football is, and, by extension, how bad everyone who doesn't play in the SEC is. There's real truth to the strength of the conference (the SEC has produced college football's last six national champions) but after a while, all that talk about SEC superiority and "big-man football" becomes repetitive and a little unbearable, like the guy who stops by your desk every Monday morning, does unsolicited calf stretches in his khakis and talks about the awesome half-marathon he ran over the weekend. I get it. You guys rule. Please stop."
And another - more straight up view of the SEC Champ. from the same paper
"Those games carry the stench of "inventory," tacked-on contests for TV rights-holders to hype. The SEC's game is simply unmissable most years, and was especially so Saturday. Here were two one-loss teams at the Georgia Dome once again playing for a BCS championship berth. "Every element, it really was a showcase for us," said SEC commissioner Mike Slive, owner of the most valuable portfolio in college sports."


text:
All of a sudden, the Liberals have decided to become champions of Canadian veteran rights. Check out the Liberal by-election campaign in Durham with candidate Grant Humes launching a new ad blitz called "Durham4Vets." A veneer of compassion, but pure sleaze when you look under the surface.
The website "Durham4Vets.org" claims to support the rights of veterans, but is filled with negative media against both Conservatives and NDP alike. A quick click on the donation page invites you to fill the coffers of the Humes campaign. Only after Sun Media drew attention to this flagrant exploitation of our vets, and the heartstrings of voters, has the site added in tiny font some legalese about Elections Canada and a barely perceptible link to a real veterans charity.
Despite years of abuse and neglect towards our proud Canadian soldiers and veterans while they were in power, the Liberals have all of a sudden championed their cause. Liberal wannabe leader Justin Trudeau supports Humes' reprehensible campaign. Instead of condemning it, he's chosen to double down, leveraging the opportunity to bash Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Pulling a tantrum, slamming Sun News as a Harper shill for daring to challenge his Liberal logic.
Folks, it's this kind of arrogance that got the Liberals booted from government back in 2006. Confuse the issue, sidestep the question and deflect your dirty tricks onto the other side.
But Canadians can see through this greasy gloss. Canadians remember the way Liberals treated our Canadian soldiers and veterans while in office. It was Justin's father Pierre Trudeau who offered the first blow to Canada's military in the late 1960s when he "reorganized" Canada's military services, with demoralizing cuts to our air and naval capabilities. By the 1980s, Canada had lost its war-fighting capabilities, and was unable to provide combat operations in the first Gulf War.
Jean Chretien was no better with the Sea King helicopters. These maritime helicopters were acquired in the 1960s and prone to crashes and failures during military missions. The Mulroney government purchased new choppers to replace the Sea Kings, but as soon as Chretien took office he cancelled the contract, putting our troops at great risk and danger because of old and outdated equipment.
In 2002, the first Canadian soldiers arrived in Afghanistan with green camouflage uniforms. This was an international embarrassment. Then, in 2006 when Paul Martin was running for prime minister, the Liberals created the "Soldiers in our streets" attack ad against their Conservative opponent Stephen Harper.
Propaganda and fear tactics to scare Canadians about their own military. Shameful. No wonder top general Rick Hillier aptly called Liberal rule the "decade of darkness." But the Liberals want you to forget all of that. Now they want to champion the troops and the veterans.
Veterans in this country do need to be treated much better. They should receive more benefits for the service they've provided Canadians. They deserve more respect. But I do not trust a bunch of political hacks who are using this message to exploit our veterans to win a campaign, especially after generations of disrespect and disdain towards our military.
The Liberals cannot pull the wool over our eyes that easily. And that's Canadian common sense.


text:
A Silvia Brown, Cliffs Notes reply;
You will burst into flames in hell and hear the moaning of all the other tortured heathens when your there. Someone tried to help, but you didn't listen. Now you must be reminded of the eternal suffering you will experience.
Have a nice day. God Bless!


text:
The search for skilled IT professionals has been an ongoing struggle for the federal government, but there also should be an emphasis on finding ways – and funds -- to train and motivate those already in the workforce, according to one expert.
The framework to build a 21st-century government to better serve citizens pushes agencies to implement digital tools, but missions can't be met successfully without the appropriate investment in development and training for IT professionals, said Julie Anderson, chief operating officer and managing director at Civitas Group
Despite the world of austerity, Anderson said she believes it's essential to have a portion of the IT budget within the department reserved for training. Imagine you need a new suit and go to a discount store looking for a bargain, Anderson said. You spend $200 on a suit that looks pretty good, but lasts only three months before it starts wearing thin. A better bet is to spend more upfront on a suit that will last for years, Anderson said.
"It's the same thing with IT investment – government can do it on the cheap and be myopic and just buy a solution whether it's commercial off-the-shelf or not," Anderson said. "But they'll be shortchanging themselves and the effectiveness of the technology unless they fully invest in the people."
With the evolution of technology, it's no longer just a cybersecurity problem; it encapsulates all of IT. As IT advances, cyber, cloud and other kind of capabilities and components become more integrated and a natural part of an IT person's role in terms of their knowledge base and skill set, Anderson said.
"The main message here is for government to get this right – meaning IT investment that improves the security of the nation's information, government assets and personnel," she said. "It's as much about investing in the people as it is about choosing the right technology solutions and making sure it's implemented effectively. You can't have one without the other."
The Veterans Affair Department, for example, has had a agencywide human capital investment initiative of more than $200 million yearly to train their employees, including IT professionals, nurses and strategic planners, to provide them a better skill set, said Anderson, who formerly served as a VA's acting assistant secretary for policy and planning.
"It's a line item in VA's budget, and it's a significant investment – it's actually the biggest human capital investment of any federal agency," she added.
A February 2012 survey by (ISC)2 showed the federal government is doing well with keeping cybersecurity professionals once they are hired. But getting qualified or highly specialized candidates in the door remains a major challenge, Anderson acknowledged.
"Training and development can help retain talent so it remains in the organization for years to come, but managers also need to make sure employees know they have a career path in government or in an IT track," she explained.
But to even compete with the private sector, government needs to be clear, supportive and helpful about how employees can contribute to the overall mission and how they can advance their careers, Anderson said.
"More plans so people understand what's possible, support from management, training dollars and development opportunities should help in that war of recruiting," Anderson said.
In times of shrinking coffers, psychological compensation grows increasingly important, Anderson said. Invited to speak to the winners of the U.S. Cyber Challenge – an initiative to identify and recruit the next-generation cybersecurity professionals -- Anderson urged the high school-aged group to consider a career in government over the private sector, as a way to serve the country.
A public service career isn't "appealing to everyone but there are folks out there who are drawn to opportunities, jobs and careers like that," she said. "It doesn't necessarily have to be in the military or the intelligence world, but it could be working in IT security for an agency that manages millions of data records that contain personal information of beneficiaries of government programs."
In the end, federal managers hold a key role in ensuring the success of their employees. Anderson advised that managers create for their direct reports individual development plan so each employee's goals are known and that the organization and the manager are working to support the employee in meeting their goals.
Particularly for young employees with just a few years' experience, that type of guidance could prove "extraordinary valuable" early in their career, Anderson noted.
"The higher job satisfaction individuals are going to have, the more engaged they will be in their work, the more likely they will be to work in the government," she said.
About the Author
Camille Tuutti is a former FCW staff writer who covered federal oversight and the workforce.
E-Mail this page
Printable Format
Advanced Search
Government Cyber Insider tracks the technologies, policies, threats and emerging solutions that shape the cybersecurity landscape.
Check it out today!
Large parts of the federal government will shutter at least temporarily as Congress fails to enact a four-week stopgap spending bill. As agencies prepare to power down, officials say cybersecurity is being given a higher priority than it was in the 2013 shutdown.
An individual's walking gait will be the first biometric used to continuously authenticate mobile warfighters.
The former chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee and the lead sponsor of the IT procurement bill FITARA is calling it quits.
Pentagon acquisition chief Ellen Lord has been replaced as the chair of the group overseeing the massive cloud initiative known as the Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure.
Government application of the ledger technology lags behind the hype, but expect more experiments to take off in the coming months.
After a 2017 filled with uncertainty and slipped deadlines, the Census Bureau faces a critical 2018 that could make or break the constitutionally mandated count.
In the DOC they contracted out most of the training to an online company, learn.com. While the suits are all patting themselves on the back for saving so much money, those of us who are IT professionals are spending our own money buying O'Reilly books to teach ourselves about all the newest technologies. This learn.com company is worse than useless when it comes to technology training. Must be run by somebody's cousin or something.
Good article – we agree that it is crucial to make an investment in training the federal IT workforce. We concur with Ms. Anderson that psychological compensation is extremely important, especially in the current budget environment. Federal managers do indeed hold a key role in ensuring the success of their employees; leadership development training for federal managers is essential to raising employees' job satisfaction and motivation. This training helps to improve the overall health of organizations, giving them the tools they need to successfully meet their missions. Sam Davis, VP, AMA Enterprise Government Solutions
I spent 18 years in Real Life, and I think I got about three technical training sessions, all free vendor supplied. In the Gov I get many hours of training, multiple types of Security trainings, Human Trafficking (not that I travel that much), suicide, tool and FOD control (can't leave a loose tool in a PC, might crash a plane somewhere), team building, what the Chinese and others have penetrated, acquisition (whoopee), and before the GSA fiasco I actually was one of the few in my area to go to a training conference the last three years (but that is not allowed now). I have many hours of training, but I have very little JOB RELATED training, no budget for the useful training. But I think if you check Real Life, most of the GS7-13 (11-14 in DC) technical equivalents get very little useful formal training also, I know I did not. After all, many of the upper management MBA types consider folks like us to be replaceable - with a new kid just out of school with the latest training at entry level pay.But the downside to the last few paragraphs in the article, train up the newbies in the underpaid Gov system, and they hop to a much better paid Real Life job with that talent.
We need to send all those Feds for a week at the country club resort to learn how to day-trade on their government issued iPads. Leave the real work back home to those worthless contractors.
REAL training does not mean one-size-fits-all bootcamps. It needs to be a custom fit for the skill sets required for the position. Deep-six the worthless 8570.1 reg, which is no more than a crutch that allows managers to avoid actually knowing what their people are/are not competent to do.
Show All Comments
8251 Greensboro Drive Suite 510, McLean, VA 22102 703-876-5100


text:
Summaries of EU Legislation
Summaries of EU legislation: direct access to the main summaries page.
- Archived: true
Commission Opinion [COM(97) 2004 final - Not published in the Official Journal]Commission Report [COM (98) 703 final - Not published in the Official Journal]Commission Report [COM(2000) 711 final - Not published in the Official Journal]Commission Report [COM(2001) 700 final - SEC(2001) 1754 - Not published in the Official Journal]Commission Report [COM(2002) 700 final - SEC(2002) 1410 - Not published in the Official Journal]Commission Report [COM(2003) 675 final - SEC(2003) 1209 - Not published in the Official Journal]Treaty of Accession to the European Union [Official Journal L 236 of 23.09.2003]
In its Opinion of July 1997 the Commission expressed the view that Slovakia had made progress in adopting the Community transport acquis, but that considerable progress was still required with regard to road haulage (market access, safety standards and taxation) and railways, where the effective implementation of the acquis would have to be monitored. Provided the situation in those two sectors improved, the Commission did not consider that the transport sector should pose serious problems as regards adoption of the internal market acquis. The Slovak Republic needed to take steps to ensure that the basis was laid for extending the future trans-European transport network to include the acceding countries, and to reinforce administrative structures at all levels, including supervisory bodies.
The November 1998 Report emphasized that Slovakia had to make further efforts to harmonise legislation in the fields of air, road and rail transport and with regard to the safety of road transport and combined transport.
The November 2000 Report stressed that despite limited progress, much remained to be done in most areas of transport, notably rail and road transport. Considerable adaptation and strengthening of the administrative structures was also necessary.
The November 2001 Report stated that in spite of an improvement in the overall level of alignment with the acquis, major efforts were still required in this connection.
The October 2002 Report notes that Slovakia has made further progress in the transport sector. Nonetheless, major improvements are still required in relation to road haulage (particularly market access, safety standards and taxation) and rail transport, where the effective adaptation of legislation needs to be monitored.
The 2003 Report concludes that Slovakia needs to complete the alignment of its legislation in the areas of rail, inland waterway, air and maritime transport. Slovakia needs to reinforce its administrative capacity in the rail sector and to prepare for the significant investments which will be needed in transport infrastructure
Community transport policy consists of initiatives in three fundamental areas.
The Europe Agreement provides for harmonisation of Slovak legislation with Community law, cooperation aimed at restructuring and modernising transport, improvement of access to the transport market, facilitation of transit and achievement of operating standards comparable to those in the Community. The White Paper focuses on measures for the accomplishment of internal market conditions in the transport sector, including such aspects as competition and legislative harmonisation.
Regarding horizontal issues, in January 2000 the Slovak Government approved the "Updated Principles of the State Transport Policy" which take account of EC (European Community) principles on the development of trans-European transport networks (TEN), the interoperability of the trans-European high-speed rail system and the financing of TEN. Slovakia has approved the final report on transport infrastructure needs assessment (TINA) of October 1999, which should form the basis for extending the trans-European networks to Slovakia. At present, 40% of the planned corridor motorways are completed. However, harmonisation with the acquis on TEN and interoperability will require further regulatory measures beyond the level of Government resolutions.
Regarding road transport, new legislation to align with the acquis was adopted concerning vehicle road worthiness tests. Partial alignment was achieved in respect of driving licences (training of drivers and instructors) and dimensions and weights of vehicles. As regards fiscal issues, partial legislation has been achieved through amendments to the Road Tax Act which entered into force in January 2000. In July 2000, the Slovak Government approved a concept for the transformation and privatisation of state-owned bus companies. However, substantial efforts to accelerate transposition and implementation are needed on many parts of the road transport acquis, for example in the field of fiscal harmonisation, social rules, safety and the environment (including weights and dimensions) of vehicles. The multilateral INTERBUS agreement on the occasional carriage of passengers by bus, was signed by Slovakia in 2000. New legislation on vehicle registration and corresponding certificates entered into force in 2001.
In 2002, the Road Law came into force, harmonising vehicle taxes. New regulations entered into force aimed at aligning Slovak legislation on admission to the occupation of road transport operator. Transport licences will now be granted for a maximum period of 5 years. However, further efforts are required in order to ensure enforcement of legislation, in particular as far as the social and technical acquis are concerned. Administrative capacity is in place, but further strengthening should continue, especially by increasing the number of staff and training specialised staff in key supervisory and control functions.
With regard to trans-European transport networks, in 2001 the Slovak Government approved the national regional development plan for 2001-2006. This sets out in detail the development plans for transport infrastructure in different regions of Slovakia.
In 2002, the Slovak Government approved the construction project connecting Viedenska Cesta and Pristavny Most, which is intended to improve the quality of the transport corridor in Bratislava and reduce the heavy traffic on the existing roads in the area. However, administrative capacity needs to be reinforced in the road and rail sectors in order to prepare for the significant investments that will be needed.
In relation to rail transport, in 2000 the Slovak Government approved a project for transforming and restructuring Slovak Railways (ZRS), and putting in place the conditions for liberalising the rail transport sector. In accordance with the 1999 restructuring plan, Slovakia needs to adopt and implement new legislation in order to achieve further alignment to the acquis; notably as regards management independence for railway undertakings, access to the rail infrastructure and transit rights, a sound financial basis for undertakings, separation of accounts for infrastructure and operation services, as well as licensing and allocation of infrastructure. It also needs to establish the Railways Regulatory Authority.
As regards inland waterways, further alignment has been carried out through the adoption in September 2000 of a new Inland Waterways Act. The Act, which transposes provisions on access to the profession and mutual recognition of qualifications, entered into force in 2001. Legislative alignment was still not complete in 2003, in particular as regards safety advisors for the transport of dangerous goods, reciprocal recognition of navigability licences, technical requirements for inland waterway vessels and systems of chartering and pricing.
In the field of air transport, negotiations between the EU and Slovakia on the multilateral agreement to establish a European Common Aviation Area (ECAA) led to the signing of a bilateral protocol at the end of 1999. However, Slovakia will have to accelerate the establishment of an independent air traffic accident investigation body and also reinforce air safety.
The new Civil Aviation Act, which entered into force in 2002, introduces the conditions for independent investigations of civil aviation accidents, the conditions of access to the ground handling market at Community airports, and common rules on the allocation of slots. Full membership of the Joint Aviation Authorities remains to be achieved through the implementation of an action plan.
As regards maritime transport, though Slovakia is landlocked, its legislation needs to be fully aligned with the maritime acquis and incorporate provisions concerning the "Erika" package.
Overall administrative capacity in the transport sector should be strengthened through an adequate clarification of tasks and proper coordination between the various ministries involved in the legislative process. The necessary independent bodies should be established, legislation should be applied correctly by the competent bodies and the administration should be provided with sufficient qualified human resources and information technology to carry out the tasks deriving from the acquis in the proper manner.
Last updated: 10.03.2004


text: Opera in the Ozarks 63rd Season WEBSITE ADD TO Trip Planner Opera in the Ozarks celebrates its 63rd season. The repertoire includes Madama Butterfly by Puccini, Donizetti's L'Elisir d'Amore (Elixir of Love) and Gilbert & Sullivan's The Pirates of Penzance and runs June 21-July 19. Visit opera.org for full performance details. Get Directions Gas Calculator Details Dates: July 8, 2013 - July 13, 2013 Venue: Inspiration Point Fine Arts Center? Address: 16311 Hwy. 62 WEureka Springs, AR 72632 Admission: $20 - $25 Website: opera.org Phone: 479-253-8595 Contact: Opera in the Ozarks Email: email@example.com


text:
Read the full story here Web Link posted Friday, March 21, 2008, 12:00 AM
Town Square
Letters to the editor
Original post made on Mar 21, 2008
Read the full story here Web Link posted Friday, March 21, 2008, 12:00 AM
Comments (3)
a resident of another community
on Mar 21, 2008 at 9:02 am
Congratulations to Tom Fredericks for a recognized truth!
Dear neighbors,
We can celebrate Tom's commentary as he focused our review on local government's exacting focus on our neighborhoods. We can laugh at such clever realism of another layer of government with a too-intense interest in very local activities not requested by neighbors and their neighborhoods.
It is a warning deserving careful consideration in the neighborhoods of what a handful wish to call the Town of Alamo. Too many layers of government are by definition an oxymoron, a self-cancelling redundancy.
We are smiling, Tom, and duly warned,
One HAL of a Pal
a resident of Alamo
on Mar 25, 2008 at 7:54 am
My thanks to Tom for saying what many have been saying in Alamo, Danville, and other towns in our area.
We all have seen incorporation bring city governments that become a burden to our communities and an imposition on our neighborhoods. City councils and governments become insulated from residents and only consider their own views in their decisions.
In the end, cities develop the same lack of community we have with our county.
Dennis, Downtown in Alamo
Posted with permission of the author via email@example.com
a resident of another community
on Mar 28, 2008 at 8:15 am
In today's weekly:
In closing, regarding the remark that Alamo should be careful what they wish for with incorporation, we went through the same criticism during Danville's incorporation. Local control and decision making has turned Danville into the "gem" it is today. Alamo is a very nice little community, but it can become even nicer with more local control.
Tim MacHugh, Danville
My response and questions:
Dear Tim,
Danville is not a GEM when its government violates it neighbors and neighborhoods. That leaves a real question about your comments about Alamo, "Where is this community of Alamo, who lives in it, and what structure of local control is being offered?"
Karen Sexton
Posted by Iron Horse neighbors, Kathy Bell
Salami, Salami … Baloney
By Tom Cushing | 25 comments | 586 views
Time for new collaboration between city and school district
By Tim Hunt | 2 comments | 460 views


text:
© 2008 MLB Advanced Media, L.P. All rights reserved.
Nats GM says Cordero will hit market
Bowden reveals intention to non-tender injured closer
By Bill Ladson / MLB.com
SAN FRANCISCO -- The offseason is a little more than two months away, but the Nationals have already decided that reliever Chad Cordero will be non-tendered. The news comes two weeks after Cordero had shoulder surgery. General manager Jim Bowden first gave the news to Sports Talk 980 AM in Washington on Wednesday afternoon. Bowden would later confirm what he said in an e-mail to MLB.com during Wednesday night's game between the Nationals and Giants. Cordero and the Nationals avoided arbitration this past offseason when Cordero agreed to terms to a one year, $6.2 million contract on Jan. 11. The Nationals were hoping that Cordero would be just as productive as he was the previous four-plus seasons, but he played in only six games because of a labrum tear in his right shoulder. Cordero had the surgery on July 8, and the team is hoping that he is ready for Spring Training. While the Nationals would like to have Cordero back, Bowden said the team does not want to pay him a lot of money. "We hope that Chad Cordero re-signs with us, but based on his surgery, our interest would be a low base salary with incentives," Bowden said via e-mail. When reached by phone, Cordero was not happy to hear the news. "I'm shocked he would say it now and make it official. It's a bit upsetting. It's early," Cordero said. "I understand that it's a business." Cordero, who lives in Southern California, is planning to visit the Nationals on Saturday at Dodger Stadium.
Bill Ladson is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


text:
Consider this: in 2013, California installed more rooftop solar than in the previous 30 years combined.
And it's not just the Golden State that understands the benefits of rooftop PV. From 2011 to 2013 alone, approximately 200,000 U.S. homes and businesses added brand new rooftop solar – an amount equal to approximate 3 gigawatts of power, or four to five conventionally-sized coal plants, according to Bloomberg.
Tell me again why rooftop solar "doesn't make sense"…?
Let's debunk a few more myths:
Myth #1: Solar is only for the wealthy.
A recent study from the independent nonpartisan Center for American Progress looked at three of the top solar states – California, New Jersey and Arizona – and found that at least 60% of all rooftop solar installations were occurring in middle class neighborhoods, with income levels between $40,000 and $90,000.
How is this possible? Don't rooftop solar systems cost tens of thousands of dollars? Not anymore – for the consumer at least. Take a look at SolarCity for example. A recent deal with finance giant Goldman Sachs opens up $500 million in solar power projects; an estimated 110 megawatts in generation capacity for rooftop solar. SolarCity notes, "As more investors have become familiar with the reliability and quality of solar as a technology and an asset class, it has become possible to expand the pool of available financing and offer options to a broader range of potential customers, including those with lower credit profiles."
This is not your grandparents' solar market. With advanced financing options, brand new systems can be obtained for no money down, relying solely on the intrinsic value of 20+ years of predictable power sales. Rooftop solar is quickly becoming power to the people.
Myth #2: The rooftop installation process is costly and ineffective.
This one is actually partially true, depending on your definition of "expensive." But here's the deal: it doesn't have to be!
Part one of this answer requires a look at the trends of solar PV costs over the past couple decades. One popular chart shows how solar costs have dropped 99% since 1977, when a watt of solar PV would cost you approximately $76.67. Today, that same watt can be had for approximately $0.74. A second chart, (see below) overlays installation data with cost data:
Also impressive is the fact that solar panel costs in the second quarter of 2013 were down by a whopping 60% over the first quarter of 2011, according to research by GTM. Looking at the facts, it's pretty clear that solar has gotten a lot cheaper.
But let's be fair on cost – it's not perfect yet. Part two of this answer examines what are called "soft costs" – i.e. the cost of actually putting the hardware onto the roof and hooking it up to the grid.
As you can see, putting solar on your roof does incur costs beyond simply purchasing the panels. But as the German data shows, there is tremendous improvement that can be made here in America. The Department of Energy is actually focusing on this specific issue in their Sun Shot initiative, a concentrated effort to drop the cost of rooftop solar to $.10 or less.
Nonetheles, all of this being said, citing installation costs and logistics a reason why rooftop solar installations "just don't make sense" is wild hyperbole. Customers can easily save money over the lifetime of their systems with the current costs, and bringing soft costs down will only accelerate customers' ROI. 2014 will continue to be a big year for cheap solar and with advance financing, lower soft costs and cheaper panels, more and more homeowners will be able to save money with a rooftop system.
Myth #3: Net metering policies are "magic."
Hardly! Net metering, or NEM for short, varies from state to state, but generally allows rooftop system owners to sell their power back to the grid at normal, retail prices – thus saving on monthly electric bills.
Some groups – particularly many traditional utilities – argue that customers with rooftop solar systems increase the costs for non-solar customers, by paying less money on their monthly bills. But this topic has been closely studied, and numerous report note that the impacts of NEM on non-participating ratepayers depends heavily on the utility's retail rate design. Severin Borenstein, professor of Business and Public Policy at the Haas School of Business, U.C. Berkeley explains, "[The] fundamental problem isn't net metering, but rather marginal prices that greatly exceed marginal cost"
A Crossborder Energy study from California shows how several key investor owned utilities (IOUs) actually draw more benefits from NEM than costs (see below).
From the same Crossborder study, a list of potential benefits for utilities from NEM includes:
• Avoided energy costs
• Avoided capacity costs for generation
• Reduced costs for ancillary services
• Lower line losses on the transmission and distribution system (T&D)
• Reduced investments in T&D facilities
• Lower costs for the utility's purchase of other renewable generation
While this issue is far from settled, NEM policies do benefit customers and as solar costs continue to drop, the need for smart policy provisions at the state and local level will become more important. As things stand today, there is no barrier to entry due to NEM for homeowners and small businesses aspiring to add rooftop PV. Hopefully this will remain the case in the future.
It's probably worth pointing out that much of the "renewables don't work" agenda is being driven by commentators with connections to the fossil fuel industries. This case is no different – anti-rooftop solar writer Davis Swan worked in the oil & gas industry for 20 years. Why RenewablesBiz printed the piece is unknown.
Instead of reading an oil and gas expert's opinion on solar power, why not read someone who has actually put a solar system on their rooftop? Fortune Magazine editor-at-large David Whitford did just that, and here's what he has to say:
"I love my new power plant. Because I can, I monitor it compulsively, on my laptop and on my phone. At this moment, for instance -- 11:45 AM on a bright, bitter-cold January day -- my roof is generating 2.51 kilowatts of electricity. Since the dog is the only one at home, I'm pretty sure my meter is running backwards. That warms me."
His experience wasn't perfect – "I've learned a few things over the past several months that I probably should have known going in. Nothing that would have changed my mind, but still" – and that's fair. But the bottom line is simple: rooftop PV makes a lot of sense and at the end of the day, David joined with thousands of other Americans who can now boast that they too are generating their own, renewable power.


text:
This Week in Foodservice looks at Commerce Department advance sales estimates for July as well the employment picture, economic stats and consumer sentiment in order to deliver a well-rounded picture of the economy issues surround the foodservice industry.
The Commerce Department's advance monthly sales estimates for July had overall U.S. retail sales climbing 0.2 percent over June on a seasonally adjusted basis. Sales last month were up 5.4 percent over July of last year.
Restaurant and drinking places sales were up 0.6 percent over June on a seasonally adjusted basis and were up 3.9 percent over July 2012. The Commerce Department estimates that restaurant and bar sales are up 3.9 percent for the first 7 months of this year.
There are significant limitations on this data, however. The numbers are an advance estimate based on a subsample and are subject to revision. The numbers are adjusted for seasonal variation, holidays and trade days but not for price changes. The report covers bars and restaurants. No hotels, clubs, or any of the so-called institutional foodservice segments are included.
For full details and same store sales of other chains, please click here for the Green Sheet.
Equipment Supplier Financial Data: New quarterly financial reports for Middleby Corporation and Sysco are shown.