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Hi folks
I have this rock in the loft, I think it was found a good 20 years ago and it has what we thought might be small insect like footprint impressions on it, there are a few scattered about. Any ideas what they could be?
I cannot tell what type of rock it is from the photo, but it looks like the surface shown is not a bedding plane (in a sedimentary rock). Therefore, the fact that the holes occur as triplets suggests either:
- deepish parallel holes, made through thr rock, either modern, or ancient (representing a fossil)
- shallow holes not parallel, made on that (recent) surface
In neither case, do I recognize it.
My gut reaction is that it is modern. There are many little gastropods and bivalves that bore holes into rocks, but none that make triplet holes, AFAIK. Some seaweeds' holdfasts dissolve rock to make pockets to help with anchoring, but I don't think it is that either. I await for a marine biologist to enlighten me/us.
The other marks have me baffled, too, though I can see hints of fossil in them.
Did you find the rock on a beach, a riverside, or away from water?
Hello Pies
Nice interesting find.
Hi folks
It was found by my old man, he thinks in the Falklands of all places, rather than the UK. It was found on a beach along with fossilised worm casts and shell impressions in similar rock laying loose on the surface. I guess this points towards a marine creature of some sort.....
Being from a beach, bivalves, gastropods, polychaete worms and seaweed would be around.
...Which is marginally helpful, but doesn't actually get us closer to an explanation.
I guess I am leaning towards polychaete worms, which sometimes give rise to paired holes. But the triplet-holes still leave me scratching my head.
I have asked Jessica Winder for her opinion
I asked Jessica Winder to look at this (Jessica's Nature Blog).
Please see her reply
- http://natureinfocus.wordpress.com/2011/04/12/pebbles-with-holes-made-by-tube-worms/#comment-8129
Note especially her:
- request for a higher-resolution photo
- "My best suggestion at the moment is to contact NERC's British Geological Survey which compiled the reports on the fossils from the Falklands (downloadable as pdf files on-line). BGS also holds house collections of Falklands fossils and rocks."
Hi folks
Thanks for the link and ideas. Unfortunately I don't have a dedicated camera, only a phone but I have taken a few more snaps just in case it helps any. I will look up the BGS to see if they have come across anything similar.
I tend to agree with these being impressions, but more likely to be of plant remains than insect footprints. I found the nora.nerc.ac pdf by googling "Lafona formation", & it mention several episodes of sandstone & mudstone,& eg of the 2nd Bluff Cove Formation said "the presence of rare plant traces shows the nearby land mass was vegetated". Also after the bibliography a geological map of the falklands & 14 photos preceded by captions, which give some idea of the rock
(the pdf is http://nora.nerc.ac.uk/10862/1/DepositsArticle-FI.pdf ) (which is different from yours mike)
Message was edited by: rhossilian
Thanks for those further photos - much better (if still enigmatic).
Thanks for looking into this.
Could I trouble you for a link to the ref you found, please (my Googling seems to be missing it).
Our guesses are the moment:
- plant fossil (which could include seeds, BTW))
- trace fossils (there are similarities to Arenicolites (that image is from http://www.cprm.gov.br/geossit/geossitios/ver/181, the photo indicates the marks in pairs), but I have found no references in triplet-holes with arenicolites); Chondrites also has some similarities; but it is only bifurcated; I don't think it has trifurcations, as would be necessary to explain the marks in your specimen)
- polychaete or similar worms (modern)
- seweed holdfast marks (modern)
With the trace fossils, bear in mind that we don't know the animals that made the traces; the names relate to the traces themselves.
To pick up on a comment of Jessica's (pondering it there are signs of a 4-fold arrangement, which I can see), one could imagine a vertebrate with three toes and a 'palm'. This photo shows what I have in mind, albeit with a different number of toes - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Cheirotherium_prints_possibly_Ticinosuchus.JPG (from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trace_fossil).
I don't think that leads us anywhere, however, since vertebrate feet/walking traces should be arranged to form a track, not randomly scattered and differently-oriented individual marks.
While your photos are lit well (obliquely) to show the marks, I can't see into the individual holes/depressions. Please could you tell us what they are like: shallow or deep / gradually tapered or blunt-ended / variable or consistent / etc. Also, from the photos, I get the impression that the individual marks have straight (though not necessarily parallel) sides radiating somewhat from the centre of the triplet. Is that true or just an illusion?
Rhossilian - it's OK - I've found the PDFs now - including the bioturbated black mustone .
Oh - that paper included mention of Glossopteris, a tree which had microsporangia in small clusters
I wonder if those were prone to break-up into threes? But low preservtion potential, methinks, even if so.
...Clutching at straws, still.
Please can we have a photo of the other side, and the edges.
Also, to help us get an idea what sort of rock it is:
- Put a drop of vinegar on it, and tell us if you get any (even a smidge) of fizzing (limestone test)
- Scratch it with a glass bottle: which gets scratched: the glass or the rock? Ditto a knife.
Jessica has added some thoughts on her blog.
I wish my PhD supervisor, Pete Crimes, was still with us; ichnology was his speciality.
I emailed another of his students, Liam Herringshaw (Durham), also into ichnology, to see if he can shed any light. Liam doesn't know, but he suggested asking on the Ichnology group on Facebook, which I have done - https://www.facebook.com/groups/415851935172452/
We are also awaiting answers to the questions I recently put to the original poster, most importantly whether the marks are just on this side, or all round.
Hello Pies...
Hi folks
Sorry for the delay, I missed the last message. The marks are only on one side, i will take a shot of the back and sides tonight and try the vinegar scratchy thing too and report back. Pies
Hi folks
So it is softer than glass, doesn't do anything when I put vinegar on it and here are some side photos.
Thanks for the further info.
I see the rock is a finely laminated siltstone, possibly micaceous, judging by the bright flecks.
As you say, the marks in question do not appear as such on the underside or the edges. Because the underside is not as weathered as the top, any bioturbation has not been picked-out there (though there are vague signs of small vertical burrows). So unfortunately this tells us little definitively. That is: if the marks had been present on the sides or base, I would have been confident they are modern; their absence there is ambiguous.
I think the relative softness suggests weak cementation rather than being limestone; limestone is also counter-indicated by the lack of fizzing.
Micaceous siltstones certainly can be good rocks for finding trace fossils.
This is definitely still a mystery.
There have been a couple of comments on the Facebook page (link earlier), but no answer as such yet.


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Should cops be required to submit DNA samples?
Providing DNA samples as a condition of employment is not yet an issue in law enforcement, but we should contemplate the ramifications should that day arrive
The New York State Police and the union (representing some 1,100 Investigators in the Bureau of Criminal Investigation) have apparently entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Governor's Office of Employee Relations (GOER) regarding a voluntary, employee-participation plan for submission of DNA samples. The premise for this program, I am told, is to rule out police employees as the source of DNA from crime scenes. I'm assuming this is in the event of potential scene contamination, or defense issues raised because of unidentified DNA.
While the rationale for such use of a DNA sample would seem innocent enough, the thought that the government is now seeking DNA samples from employees for a database is of great concern. In fact, I consider it a very disturbing piece of career-related news for the law enforcement profession.
For those of you who remember reading George Orwell's 1984, you now know you've lived to see the futuristic tale come to life in many respects. I have nothing but lingering suspicion and numerous questions as to the propriety of such a program and the initiation of it as part of contractual negotiations.
There are so many issues which jump out here: including privacy rights, employment considerations, constitutional safeguards, disciplinary concerns, and informational security. My concern for my police brethren — not just friends and former colleagues, but for younger officers and aspiring officers — prompted me two write a letter to the union president, who is wisely against the policy and instructs his members to not participate. It also was a catalyst to further research into the situation to see if a similar policy was in effect anywhere else.
DNA not simply a 'more sophisticated fingerprint'
While researching, I found a recent news piece from CBS regarding a policy instituted by the University of Akron. The university claimed that DNA was merely a "sophisticated fingerprint" and wanted to obtain DNA samples from all faculty, staff, and contractors seeking employment to conduct background checks.
The policy stated that a "DNA sample for purpose of a federal criminal background check" may be required; this allowed employers to compare DNA samples to federal CODDIS databases. What the University of Akron and its legal counsel failed to consider was the potential backlash this policy would have and the revolt from the university faculty. Akron failed to obtain Faculty Senate approval and didn't clear the policy with their union, the American Association of University Professors (AAUP). Seeds of dissent were not only sown but quickly blossomed into fully born fruit: an adjunct faculty member resigned in protest, and the ACLU of Ohio questioned the legality of the policy in light of various federal employment laws.
Laurie Massie, spokesperson for the University of Akron, said the reasoning behind the policy was the potential demise of the fingerprint as a criminal identification tool and its replacement with DNA. But this only begs the question as to whether a fingerprint and DNA sample are really the same. Doesn't DNA require more concern for individual privacy than a fingerprint? DNA is a different identifier and the technology and its potential use is far more invasive than a federal database of fingerprints. Fingerprints are a simple external means of identification no more intrusive than a physical description of a person's eye and hair color, height, and weight. DNA provides a Pandora's Box of information which the government can store and potentially use.
What privacy rights do we surrender when we provide a set of fingerprints for employment? The one response usually heard in support of employee DNA sampling is: "If you have nothing to hide, you have nothing to worry about." However, this intellectually-weak argument misses the point of the issue. Any group representing public safety employees must defend the sanctity and protection of individual rights.
Using DNA Samples: The Good, the Bad, the Ugly
In order to fully consider the adverse effects of such an employment policy, the evolving uses of DNA must be explored. The suggestion that DNA sampling should be employment criteria raises questions about the use of such genetic information. Genetic testing and the information sought from it have grown exponentially since the introduction of DNA into forensic science in 1984 by British geneticist Sir Alec Jeffreys. Genetic screening for pre-disposition to diseases and occupational illnesses is no longer the stuff of science fiction. To what end may a stored sample of DNA be put to use?
Despite the articulated policy, the storage, retention, and availability of the DNA to outside sources (such as litigants in paternity or divorce cases) are still debatable issues. Is a pre-deposited and stored sample of DNA really an effective means of eliminating police officers as the source of unidentified DNA at a crime scene? Can we be led to believe, as public employees, that the DNA sample will not be used by an employer in a disability claim against an employee?
In litigation against public employers, I have witnessed the length to which an employer will go to discredit employees seeking workplace rights. I simply do not trust government officials to do the right thing. It seems that employment purposes may be covertly used for law enforcement purposes. An officer's submission to a voluntary DNA sample is a waiver of a protected constitutional right against unlawful search and seizure. The Fourth Amendment requirement of probable cause is the standard for search, and its companion "reasonableness standard" keeps the activities of the government in check. Individualized suspicion is still a cornerstone of our criminal justice process, not blanket DNA sweeps and genetic profiling. I am troubled at the extent to which such a policy may develop if it's not muted from the start.
The Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act of 2008
The uproar over the University of Akron policy and my own alarm at the proposed New York State Police policy comes at a relevant moment in this discussion. On May 21, 2008 the Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act of 2008 (GINA) went into effect after being signed into law by former-President George W. Bush.
The act, in part, provides: "[I]t shall be an unlawful employment practice for an employer to fail or refuse to hire, or discharge, any employee...because of genetic information with respect to the employee."
The MOU in place between the New York State Governor's Office of Employee Relations and the New York State Police Investigators Association would appear to not violate GINA based on the "voluntary" nature of the policy. However, the University of Akron policy is likely a violation of the act. So where does all of this leave law enforcement officers in the United States regarding the future of DNA sampling policies?
DNA Sampling Abroad
I could not find similar policies at other police departments, but I did discover that the Scottish Police Services has been requiring DNA samples from recruits since 2003. When first proposed, the union representing Scottish officers was vocal and vehement in its opposition to the program. Concerns about privacy were voiced along with the union's statements regarding the potential for officers to be framed by criminals looking to get even. The union said it was not beyond imagination for an enterprising criminal to obtain an officer's DNA from a discarded cigarette and use that evidence to frame the officer at a crime scene.
Not surprisingly, the Association of Chiefs of Police Officers in Scotland responded and said the officers' fears were farfetched. A case involving a female officer — who was wrongly accused for contaminating a homicide scene, fired and then charged for perjury based on her denials of contaminating the scene — was presented by the union. Despite the fact that the officer was eventually acquitted and restored to her job, the union indicated that their fears were very real and future outcomes might not be so favorable.
Whatever the merits of the union's claim regarding the frame-up issue, the relevant argument still goes to individual privacy, especially in the realm of genetic information.
This is the exact issue the European Court of Human Rights ruled on when it required the United Kingdom to delete 857,000 names of innocent individuals from its massive DNA database (for details, see: S. and Marper v. The United Kingdom, App. No. 30562/04 and 30566/04, 4 Dec. 2008, E.Ct.H.R.).
A person stopped in the UK for an arrestable offense used to have a DNA sample taken, and even if that person was not convicted of a criminal offense, the DNA was retained. The European Court was unanimous among its 17 judges in its ruling, and was especially critical of the retention without time limits and without regard to the alleged offense or the age of the alleged offender. The judges were concerned that the samples could be used to identify familial relationships, which interfered with a citizen's right to privacy and the government's respect for private lives under the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights. The judges found that "[a]ny interference with privacy has to be for solving crime."
Decisions from the U.S. Supreme Court have found that same respect for privacy inferred from the provisions of select amendments to the Constitution (such as the Fourth and Ninth Amendments). It is a dangerous step for a police employer to seek DNA samples as a condition of employment. As police officers — and as those in our military can also attest — our jobs are to stand up and protect the important rights of individuals, including the right to privacy that we all demand.

subset: commoncrawl


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out of 10 based on 633 scores.
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BROWNING Lightweight Stainless w/Pistol Grip
Browning 034018126 BLR Ltwt 30-06 22 in 4+1 Walnut w/Pistol Grip Matte Stainless
Receiver is made of aircraft grade alloy, satin nickel finish, drilled and tapped for scope mounts. Barrel comes in a matte stainless steel finish and a crowned muzzle with adjustable sights. Lever action, rotating bolt, detachable box magazine. Gloss finish walnut stock with checkered pistol grip and Schnabel forearm. Features sling swivel studs and recoil pad.
SPECIFICATIONS:Mfg Item Num: 034018126 Category: RIFLES Action :LeverCaliber :30-06 SpringfieldBarrel Length :22 in Capacity :4+1Trigger :Single-StageSafety :HammerLength :43 in Weight :7.25 lbsStock Style :WalnutMetal Finish :Stainless Matte/Satin


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Read the full story here Web Link posted Friday, December 7, 2012, 9:01 AM
Town Square
Feature story: The spirit of compassion
Original post made on Dec 10, 2012
Read the full story here Web Link posted Friday, December 7, 2012, 9:01 AM
a resident of Old Palo Alto
on Dec 10, 2012 at 12:28 pm
This is a beautiful story about people who have answered one of the highest callings a person can receive. It takes a very special person to do this kind of work.
a resident of Duveneck/St. Francis
on Dec 10, 2012 at 1:04 pm
Fr. Hester, a true saint, wore a pedometer for a period of time to gauge how much he walks the halls of the hospital. Now in his 80's, Fr. Hester is known to walk the hospital corridors seven miles a day! He's there early in the a.m. for the first surgeries and a fixture in the Emergency Room and it would seem ever place else simultaneously. He and his colleagues in the Ministry service are truly heaven set.


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Friday, July 27, 2012 - Wank Party 2012 #8, Part 1
Latest Sets at WilliamHiggins.com
Our latest Wank Party is studded with great guys, Kaja Kolomaz, Roman Ditrch, Milos Zambo, Lukas Pribyl and Tomas Kukal. Lukas Pribyl had an accident, in real life, with his first every ride on a motorcycle. As a result one of his ankles was in plaster. So we organised the Wank Party around that. We see Roman and Tomas sitting on a couch in the Doctor's waiting room exchanging stories about why they are there. Lukas arrives and joins them on the couch. Then the medical staff open the door and take Lukas, who has an appointment, in for examination. Tomas and Roman, despite protestations, are made to sit and wait longer. Lukas' examination begins and things seem to be ok. He asks for his blood test results and then tells the doctor that his back hurts. So they decide to examine him more closely. Lukas is told to remove his clothes. He lays, naked, on the examination table and the Milos and Kaja begin to examine his back. Milos puts on some surgical gloves and slides a finger into Lukas' ass to check his prostate. Then he is turned over and Milos drops all pretense and immediately starts sucking on Lukas' cock. Kaja is rubbing himself and pulls out a hard dick which Lukas takes hold of and wanks. Milos stands up and drops his pants to reveal a throbbing cock and then gets completely naked before starting to suck Lukas again. Meanwhile Lukas begins to kiss and suck on Kaja's cock and wanks Milos. They move so that Lukas is sitting up and Milos lays next to him, sucking his cock while Kaja sits as well and sucks on Milos' big cock. Then, as Milos continues to Lukas Kaja moves round and presents his ass. Lukas fingers and rims that tight hole and, before long, wants more. He gets up on his knees and shoves his dick in that eager hole. Milos moves round and feeds his cock into Kaja's mouth for sucking. It all gets very hot indeed and the medics want some ass too. They move Lukas to that his is on his back, legs in the air and take turns to rim his ass. Then Kaja is first up and slides his rock hard cock deep into Lukas ass. He fucks that ass nice and slowly before moving aside for Milos to take over. His dick slips easily into Lukas' open hole and he begins to fuck. He fucks nice and deep as Kaja leans over to kiss Lukas. As he feels that cock deep in his ass Lukas wanks himself and shoots a big, creamy load all over his stomach. He then moves aside so that Kaja can get on the table and have his ass worked by Milos' rampant cock. His hole is stretched wide as he is fucked, wanking himself. Lukas kisses Milos as the action continues and very soon Kaja shoots his load too. That sets Milos off and he fucks even faster before pulling out and shooting his load as well. As the guys begin to dress we see into the waiting room and find that Tomas is on his knees sucking on Roman's big cock. They are by the door and it is clear they have been watching through the keyhole. As everything is quiet Tomas checks again and sees that the guys are dressing, so he and Roman quickly take their places back on the sofa. Kaja and Milos announce that they must have a 30 minute break and leave Tomas and Roman to wait longer. We will see just what they do to occupy their time in part 2.
Radek Kupsky is aged 19 and lives in Davle. He is currently unemployed and enjoys girls and football. He looks very good as he sits on the sofa for his interview. Then as the interview finishes Radek begins to run his hands over his body, lifting his tee shirt to sohw his abs, and then removing it to let us see his chest. He has a nicely defined body which he continues to feel as he opens his jeans. But just when we think he might pull his cock out Radek continues to rub himself instead. Then he stands up and shucks down his shorts and out flops a big and very hard cock. Not only is the cock very large but he has big, heavy balls as well. Radek takes hold of his cock and wanks it, slowly. The skin glides nicely back and forth over the cock head as Radek wanks himself with his balls swinging nicely. Radek then kneels on the sofa to show his ass. His hands rub over the ass and a helping hand appears to assist. The hands feel Radek's ass and up and down his back. Then they spread those beautiful ass cheeks to show Radek's tight little pucker hole. The hands then take some oil and rub it into his ass. One hand grabs his balls and pull them, gently bringing that big cock back between his legs. Radek turns over and lays on the sofa and the hands wank on his big cock, after oiling his body some more, making it nice and hard. Radek's legs are in the air, exposing his ass. A finger slips into Radek's hole as his cock is being wanked. Two fingers then slide into that hole as Radek's cock stays rock hard while the hands wank it. A vibrator appears and replaces the fingers in Radek's hole and very soon his cock explodes with a huge cumshot. The hands milk that cock completely dry and then smears the come all over Radeks balls before he moves off to the shower to clean up. Radek looks great and does a very good video for us.
Petr Kotora is aged 21 and lives in Usti nad Ladom. He is a student who enjoys sports, kickboxing and fitness. Petr is a very good looking guy, with a goatee beard. He has a slim build and looks very good as he slowly strips of his shirt and raises his tank top, over his head. Petr has a very cute ass too which is shows us, with a smile. Then as he drops his jeans we see a very nice flaccid cock. Petr has a ready smile and we see a lot of it. He lays on the sofa and that cock begins to get hard. We get some very good pics of it in the erect state as he stands as poses. Then he shows us more of his ass as he lays down, with his legs in the air. Next Petr shows his cock, even harder now, as he wraps his hand around the shaft. He really does look good and I will be looking forward to seeing his erotic video next week.


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Stephen Brown, Caleb Bailey, Addyson Seay and Andrew Seay completed the season with 44 top 10 finishes and two gold medals.
"We are so excited to have this opportunity for our children" Ed Seay, proud parent, said. "We hope that next year more parents in other communities will take advantage of the Sharks' wonderful swim program."
Seay said swimming with the Sharks was more than just an amazing opportunity for his children. He said the swim team is a vital part of the Arkansas River Valley.
"There has been much in the news recently about the fate of this swim team," Seay said. "We can only hope that there will be an indoor training facility that would allow the Sharks to train year-round. There really are a lot of talented swimmers in our community. As our family has been watching all the Olympic coverage, we can't help but wonder if we be watching some of the Sharks one day!"
Janna Ritchie and Danya Johnson were the co-head coaches for the season and Erick Oynes was the volunteer coach.


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"The chief misery of the decline of the faculties, and a main cause of the irritability that often goes with it, is evidently the isolation, the lack of customary appreciation and influence, which only the rarest tact and thoughtfulness on the part of others can alleviate."
Related quotes
"I have an almost complete disregard of precedent, and a faith in the possibility of something better. It irritates me to be told how things have always been done. I defy the tyranny of precedent. I go for anything new that might improve the past."
"Interruptions can be viewed as sources of irritation or opportunities for service, as moments lost or experience gained, as time wasted or horizons widened. They can annoy us or enrich us, get under our skin or give us a shot in the arm. Monopolize our minutes or spice our schedules, depending on our attitude toward them."
"Truth, like the juice of the poppy, in small quantities, calms men; in larger, heats and irritates them, and is attended by fatal consequences in excess"
"What irritates me is the bland way people go around saying, 'Oh, our attitude has changed. We don't dislike these people any more.' But by the strangest coincidence, they haven't taken away the injustice; the laws are still on the books."


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Bomb jokes - This is kind of a no-brainer, yet happens all the time. Remember the recent airport evacuation at an Alaskan airport after a man made comments about a bomb? (Shutterstock)
Aggressive behaviour - even if you're part of the crew. Qantas decided to ground two pilots after a quarrel erupted in the cockpit, and both American Eagle and Swiss air did the same with bickering crew. (Shutterstock)
Drinking too much - Even looking as though you may be under the influence of a substance can get you kicked off a flight. Earlier this year a woman got booted off Southwest airlines flight in the US because a gate agent thought she was intoxicated. After getting a toxicology test from a hospital, it turned out her blood alcohol level was less than 0.003. (Shutterstock)
Ignoring requests to turn off electronic equipment - We all have trouble switching off and unplugging, but when the crew tell you to turn that smartphone off for take-off, you better do it. Yes, even you, Alec Baldwin. The hot-headed actor was as kicked off a flight for neglecting to pause his game of Words with Friends. (Shutterstock)
Refusing to wear a seatbelt - Disobeying the crew's safety instructions is seen as an offense by most airlines, and one that they don't take lightly. When a 3-year-old boy recently refused to buckle up on an Alaska Air flight that was preparing to take-off, both the kid and his father had to disembark. (Shutterstock)
Refusing a security check - If you refuse to undergo a security check, airlines have the right to refuse carrying you. Even if you can't stand the thought of that frisky security agent, it's best to just comply if you're serious about reaching your destination. Carolina K. Smith, M.D. / Shutterstock.com


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Astros itching to begin regular season
After patchy spring, team is anxious to return home and play
By Alyson Footer / MLB.com
"We're giddy," Mark Loretta said. "G-I-D-D-Y. Giddy."
Most of the team, along with the broadcasters and a handful of front office members, boarded the buses at 9 a.m. to head for Dunedin for the final Grapefruit League game of the spring season, where the Astros and Blue Jays were scheduled to play at 1 p.m. ET. A handful of players were scheduled to stay behind at Osceola County Stadium and work out, taking a later bus to Tampa, where the team would catch a charter flight to Houston.
After six weeks of Spring Training -- five for the position players -- this day couldn't have arrived soon enough. The Astros have two more exhibition games to play before the real fun begins, and even though the players are tired of playing those proverbial "meaningless" games, they're happy to at least be playing in their home ballpark.
"It's fun to be home, you get to unpack your locker, you get settled in," Loretta said.
The Astros will host the Tigers this weekend at Minute Maid Park, first on Friday at 7:05 p.m. CT and again Saturday at 1:05 p.m. CT. Rest assured, the team can't wait to get home.
"It's always nice to get back home to Minute Maid Park," Hunter Pence said. "It's where it all happens for us. It's a different feel when you're playing in a stadium like Minute Maid. Even though it's an exhibition, it's going to feel different."
As Astros manager Cecil Cooper scurried around his office gathering papers and packing up last-minute items, he echoed his players' sentiments regarding going home.
"I'm excited about some of the things that have happened this spring," Cooper said. "I'm looking forward to playing at Minute Maid for a couple games, then getting on the road and doing our thing. I think it's going to be a great season, an exciting season."
MLB.com coverage | Schedule | Ballpark | Tickets
The Astros have not had a great spring. Record-wise, they were sub-.500, and few pitchers posted ERAs below 5. The defense had several rough patches as well, leaving the offense as the lone bright spot.
Still, optimism rings loudly for every team this time of year, and the Astros are no exception.
"I think we accomplished a lot," Pence said. "I think we've still got some things to work on. Hopefully, we'll get it right and ready to go by the start of the season."
"We've got all the blisters out of the way, we've gone through hot streaks and slumps, and everything in between," Loretta said. "We're ready."
Geoff Blum, who played for the Astros in 2002 and 2003, is looking forward to returning to Houston. He identified the "people and restaurants" as his favorite things about the city, as well as the reasonable field dimensions at Minute Maid Park.
After playing mostly for the Padres in the last few years, this hitter said he won't miss the far fences at PETCO Park in San Diego.
"Minute Maid is a normal size [park]," Blum said. "It's incredible in comparison to PETCO where it's just out of the question. It's too big."
The Astros' stay in Houston will be a short one. On Sunday, they'll head to San Diego for a four-game set with the Padres, and then it's off to Chicago for three games with the Cubs.
Still, players are excited for the regular season, even if it means being out of town for an extra week.
"I'm looking forward to getting the season started," Opening Day starter Roy Oswalt said. "I'm tired of the games not counting in the standings."
Alyson Footer is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Letter Box
A message
of tolerance
Editor of the Reformer:
In regards to a recent letter appeared in the Reformer ("Seeing the connection of the red lines," Dec. 13), which spewed anti-Semitic venom:
As we approach one of the holiest days for Christians, I think it's important to be reminded about the message of religious tolerance.
Simply put, anti-Semitism is the belief or behavior hostile toward Jews just because they are Jewish. As the Anti- Defamation League points out, "... From the days of the Bible until the Roman Empire, Jews were criticized and sometimes punished for their efforts to remain a separate social and religious group - one that refused to adopt the values and the way of life of the non-Jewish societies in which it lived."
Since World War II, public anti-Semitism has become much less frequent in the Western world. Although certain stereotypes about Jews remain common, fortunately Jews face little physical danger. The hatred of Jewishness and the conspiracy beliefs of past eras are for the most part shared only by tiny numbers of those on the fringes of society.
However, exceptions do exist; especially over Israeli policies. "Zionist" -- support for Israel as the Jewish homeland -- is often used as an anti-Semitic code word for "Jew" in mainstream debate. Holocaust denial and other recent re-writings of history -- such as the false claim that Jews rejoiced during the collapse of the Twin Towers in New York -- lie about the events of the past in order to make Jews seem underhanded and evil.
In its annual audit of anti-Semitic incidents, ADL reported that the number of anti-Semitic incidents in the United States declined by 13 percent in 2011; from 1,239 incidents of assault, vandalism and harassment in 2010, to 1,080 in 2011. However, these numbers do not accurately reflect other factors such as increases in school bullying, online expressions of anti-Semitism, verbal taunts, or published letters to the editor.
While not proven, intuitively there is a correlation between hate talk and hate crimes.
So, what can be done? When anti-Semitic statements are heard, they should be confronted for the hurtful, hateful, and ignorant comments that they are.
Gregg J. Rickman, Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism, reported to the U.S. Congress in 2008, "History has shown that wherever anti-Semitism has gone unchecked, the persecution of others has been present or not far behind. Defeating anti-Semitism must be a cause of great importance not only for Jews, but for all people who value humanity and justice ...."
Let's hope that the spirit of Christmas and its message of tolerance will extend beyond the one day and that we learn to practice and cherish peace and goodwill to all.
Martin Cohn,
Brattleboro, Dec. 17
Senate falls short
Editor of the Reformer:
An open letter to Senators Sanders and Leahy:
We are appalled at the action of the U.S. Senate for its failure to ratify the U.N. Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities on Dec. 4. This is an affront to justice and an embarrassment to the U.S.government at home and abroad. The "no" vote happened in spite of thousands of advocates in a nationwide petition, including more than 300 organizations. We would appreciate knowing of your own efforts as you continue to work for justice and peace.
Judith and Allen Myrick,
Brattleboro, Dec. 13
No cost too steep to protect children
Editor of the Reformer:
Monday morning it took a step of faith for all parents to send their children off to school.
It shouldn't be this way. If we truly value our children we will put our finances toward ensuring their safety in their schools. One police officer per school is not too much to ask for protecting hundreds of our most vulnerable and cherished residents. A locked buzzer/alarm system at each school, or a keycard entry system with a call-ahead policy for all non-employees. Metal detectors at entrances. It is not impossible to protect our children better than we do.
The intruder alert drills that our schools do on a regular basis are critical. However, with no safe place to hide the drills are not enough.
I would gladly pay higher taxes for the above safety measures. We cannot deny that there can be deeply disturbed and dangerous individuals in every community and there is no measure too costly that it is not worth taking to ensure our children's safety.
Elizabeth Ellis,
Vernon, Dec. 18
SIT overlooked in Peace Corps report
Editor of the Reformer:
I was pleased to see The Peace Corps highlighted in the Reformer ("Vt., N.H., Maine still providing to Peace Corps," Wilson Ring, Associated Press, Dec. 17).
However, SIT Graduate Institute and World Learning should have been included in the Vermont list. The Peace Corps' has longstanding ties to SIT and World Learning. Peace Corps founder Sargent Shriver was a participant in World Learning's flagship program -- The Experiment in International Living -- and drew upon his experiences with The Experiment to create the Peace Corps model. Shriver invited The Experiment to help train the first Peace Corps Volunteers in 1961, and SIT developed out of that partnership.
Today, SIT Graduate Institute is a Master's International school and a Peace Corps partner institute that participates in the Paul D. Coverdell Peace Corps Fellows program. In 2011, SIT Graduate Institute ranked ninth nationally in Master's International program participation, which is impressive considering SIT's small size relative to the larger universities on the list.
Karen Blanchard,
associate professor,
SIT Graduate Institute,
and Returned Peace Corps
volunteer, Ethiopia
and Thailand,
Putney, Dec. 17
The importance
of GMO labeling
Editor of the Reformer:
As a member of the Brattleboro Food Co-Op. it has come to my attention that Vermont voters will soon be given the opportunity to vote on the issue of labeling all genetically modified food ingredients via the Vermont Right to Know Food Act. Unfortunately, the California Proposition 37 to label GMO ingredients failed by a small margin. Media coverage noted that for the most part this was due to the constant bombardment of negative and misleading information presented by those companies and organizations who have much to gain by selling GMO ingredients. Millions of dollars were spent by businesses to prevent labeling. Sadly, my own state of Massachusetts failed to pass this labeling bill due to the same negative tactics. You can find further information at www.rodale.com/gmo-labeling-california.
I ask the people of the great state of Vermont to study the labeling issue carefully. There is a growing body of scientific evidence that reveals GMOs are unsafe and harmful to our environment and the livelihoods of organic farmers everywhere. Over 50 countries, including Japan and China, label GMO foods. Why is it that this great nation of ours cannot or will not do the same? I believe it is the right of all to know what is in our foods, especially when it has been genetically manipulated.
I urge the people of Vermont to stand up to the GMO industries and become the first state to pass a law that requires all GMO food ingredients and products be labeled. Before you vote, ask yourself this question: If GMOs are not harmful, why is it that these companies fear labeling? Surely it is more than the cost of creating new labels. If the people unite with one voice, we can have real transparency in our food labeling.
Pamela Jacobsen,
Feeding Hills, Mass., Dec. 18
A 2nd call for Rhymes with Orange
Editor of the Reformer:
I want to second the suggestion that Hillary Price's cartoons appear on the Reformer's comics page. Her humor is topical, upbeat and not mawkish. Let's have a lot more of her.
Orion M. Barber II,
Brattleboro, Dec. 17
If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us. We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom.


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The host of the PBS travel series Music Voyager and founder of the record label Cumbancha, Jacob Edgar was profiled in the latest Afar magazine. Jacob travels the globe, seeking out unique, moving music to sign to his label and share with the world. Last year he traveled up the entire coast of West Africa with us aboard National Geographic Explorer, visiting the dazzling markets of the coastal cities always on the hunt for the new, intriguing music. Our video chronicler joined him as he visited the market in Dakar to see what locals were listening to, buying, and selling.
And next year, Jacob will join us again aboard National Geographic Explorer lending his unique expertise to our guests on two epic voyages: Exploring Africa's West Coast in March, and again on our Epic South America expedition in September 2013.


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Richmond, VA (SportsNetwork.com) - Junie Donlavey, a team owner in NASCAR's premier series for more than 50 years, passed away on Monday night in his hometown of Richmond. He was 90.
According to a report from Richmond television station WWBT, Donlavey suffered from Alzheimer's disease. Members of Donlavey's family told NBC12 (WWBT) that he "thought it would be appropriate if he passed away at age 90, the same number famously featured on his stock cars."
Born Wesley Christian Donlavey on April 8, 1924, he fielded his first entry in 1950 at Martinsville. Runt Harris finished the race 19th in a Donlavey-owned Oldsmobile.
Donlavey never strayed far from his Richmond home but was very well known for giving drivers a chance to compete at NASCAR's highest level. In all, 60 different drivers competed in Cup races for Donlavey Racing. The team's last race was in November 2002 at Rockingham, North Carolina, where Hermie Sadler finished 41st.
Among those who drove Donlavey Racing's No. 90 car at one point in their Cup careers included NASCAR Hall of Famer David Pearson as well as 2015 NASCAR HofF inductees Fred Lorenzen and Joe Weatherly.
Dick Brooks, Bill Dennis, Charlie Glotzbach, Robby Gordon, Ernie Irvan, Bobby Isaac, Tiny Lund, Benny Parsons, Ricky Rudd, Johnny Rutherford, Ken Schrader, Morgan Shepherd and Dick Trickle also drove for Donlavey Racing.
Donlavey's lone victory in 863 Cup Series races came on May 17, 1981 at Dover where Jody Ridley took the checkered flag, finishing 22 seconds ahead of his closest competitor, Bobby Allison. Ridley finished fifth in the point standings that year, the best ranking in the team's history.
Donlavey was inducted into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2007.
NASCAR released a statement on the passing of Donlavey on Tuesday.
"With Junie Donlavey's passing this week, NASCAR lost a treasure, a man who personified NASCAR's proud past," the statement read. "With 863 starts as a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series car owner, he won over millions of fans through his 50-plus years in our sport.
"The list of men who drove for him during his career is impressive, including two who won NASCAR Sprint Cup Rookie of the Year honors - Ken Schrader [1985] and Jody Ridley [1980]. Others included Dick Brooks, Ricky Rudd, Dick Trickle and Benny Parsons. All contributed to Junie's lasting legacy in our sport.
"NASCAR offers sincere condolences to Junie's family and friends at this difficult time."


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[Only registered and activated users can see links. ]
The Clippers told restricted free agent Elton Brand's agent Thursday that they intended to match the six-year, $82 million offer sheet Brand signed with the Miami Heat and retain the power forward, The Los Angeles Times reported Friday.
"We told them that before they got an offer sheet," Clipper Executive Vice President Andy Roeser said to the Times. "That won't be a surprise when it happens ... We've said all along that we intend to match the offer on Elton and we shared that with them again today."
Brand, who could have signed a one-year tender and then become an unrestricted free agent next summer, didn't seem fazed that the historically penny-pinching Clippers were going to keep him from going to Miami.


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Here are a few guesses about the areas of Ivy Bridge that have been somewhat less explored:
1. GPU: It looks like with the right drivers that Ivy on the desktop (77/95 watt TDP with HD 4000) will be close to high end Llanos but still does not beat Llano outright. It's a step up for Intel, but Trinity is about to launch so AMD has nothing to fear on the IGP front, especially on the desktop. The open source Linux drivers are apparently already quite mature, which is good news to a Linux user like me.
2. Overclocking: This may be Ivy Bridge's greatest "failure". From the early rumors it looks like Ivy Bridge *does* use less power, but there are thermal issues with getting heat out of the rather small die. That means that IB gets hotter than SB even though it is using less power. Apparently this isn't a problem for the crazy Liquid Nitrogen guys since they can still remove heat from the chip quickly, but overclocks using standard coolers may not be that impressive. That's not to say you can't OC an Ivy Bridge chips, just that you'll likely top out at about 4.5 Ghz instead of reaching 5 Ghz easily. This could be something that Intel can fix in the manufacturing process over time, so later Ivy Bridges will likely overclock better than the first batches to hit the market.
3. GPGPU: In Anandtech's review the IGP in Ivy Bridge beat Llano in exactly one task: GPGPU. Let's face it: Intel is a company that makes silicon for compute and Ivy may be surprisingly strong on this front. While Trinity will definitely have a graphics advantage, we'll see what Trinity can do on the GPGPU side. Frankly, GPGPU is less interesting since we are talking about integrated solutions and just about any serious GPGPU user is using a beefier discrete part.
4. The rest: It looks like equivalent model Ivy Bridges get approximately a 10% boost at stock speeds compared to their Sandy Bridge ancestors while also using less power. Is that particularly "exciting"? No. Is it pretty good? Yes. This is the first round of 22nm from Intel, and even though there have been delays, this is a much more ambitious launch & ramp than occurred with the 32 nm parts, where Gulftown was it for several months, followed by dual-core only Clarkdale parts.
Previous original post about IB previews
Here's the link: http://www.anandtech.com/show/5626/ivy- ... e-i7-3770k
On the CPU side: about what you'd expect. Small performance increase, but with a nice reduction in power consumption.
On the GPU side: Much bigger improvements (fortunately). As you can see, the 3770k is *not* beating a high-end Llano (the 3870K), *but* it is beating mid-range Llanos now *and* doing so in a much leaner power budget. That's the trick to Intel graphics: Intel knows full well that it can't compete with AMD when the GPU can get as much juice as it wants, but Intel is banking on really relying on the GPU in Ultrabooks where there isn't room & power budget for a big GPU. Since the Ultrabooks will have the same HD-4000 graphics, we've got a good idea as to what Intel can do on the GPU side. The real question is now: what can Trinity do when constricted to a 17 watt TDP?
Edit: The direct compute benchmark at the end of the review is an incomplete but very interesting glimpse into using Ivy Bridge's GPU as a compute tool. You'll see this is about the only benchmark were IB beats the LLano on the GPU side....


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Pretty meh signing. Won't make a big impact.
Pretty meh signing. Won't make a big impact.
Can't say I know who this is exactly.
Denver free agent guard Julyan Stone has reached agreement on a two-year deal with Toronto, league source tells Y! Sports.— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) July 4, 2013
MU is poaching his old Denver team. Stone epitomized MU's preference for stacking young prospects, rather than signing washed-up vets to be 3rd stringers. I doubt he was signed to be the primary backup, unless MU really is going into tanking/rebuilding.
ESPN Player Profile: http://espn.go.com/nba/player/_/id/6543/julyan-stone
Last edited by CalgaryRapsFan; Thu Jul 4th, 2013 at 04:26 PM.
point guard or shooting guard?
The Baltic Beast is unstoppable!
@ekoreen: Raptors envision Stone as primary backup to Lowry. Short story forthcoming
Interesting. I don't think he plays that role immediately however. Probably starts as a 3rd stringer.
Quick resource links
I'm thinking Masai saw something in him and wants to give him a shot here. But at 6'6" he can play three positions.
Read an article about him being a lockdown defender
The Baltic Beast is unstoppable!
The Baltic Beast is unstoppable!
... Didn't they try and play Gary Forbes at PG a bunch .. is this going to be another Gary Forbes?!
May 3 2013 Nuggets backup Julyan Stone turns head of NBA star Chris Paul
Read more: Nuggets backup Julyan Stone turns head of NBA star Chris Paul - The Denver Post http://www.denverpost.com/nuggets/ci...#ixzz2Y6w3o1in
Read The Denver Post's Terms of Use of its content: http://www.denverpost.com/termsofuse
Follow us: @Denverpost on Twitter | Denverpost on Facebook
"I may be wrong ... but I doubt it"
Hmm .... this is quickly becoming intriguing.
Letting Julyan Stone go was a mistake by Denver. Kid can play.— Hardwood Paroxysm (@HPbasketball) July 4, 2013
Can he play on our summer league team?
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People are encouraged to submit announcements about upcoming events for the Community Calendar. Send announcements to email@example.com. Items submitted less than two weeks in advance will be less likely to be published.
Friday, Feb. 7
The 28th Annual Chocolate Fantasia, a fundraiser benefiting the Volunteers of America Southwest Safehouse and the Durango Community Shelter, will be held on Friday, Feb. 7, at the La Plata County Fairgrounds (2500 Main Avenue), from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. This year's theme is "Chocolat De Paris." Tickets are available throughout the Durango community as well as at the door. For more information call Volunteers of America at 259-1021.
The Montezuma School to Farm Project is hosting a Talent Show at the Dolores River Brewery, 100 S. 4th St. in Dolores on Feb. 7! Family contest from 5 to 6:30 p.m., Cake Walk at 7 p.m., and adult contest from 8 to 10 p.m. Prizes will be awarded and a karaoke machine will be available. Email firstname.lastname@example.com or call 303-918-3538 to enter. All proceeds will go to school gardens in Montezuma County. $5 suggested donation at the door.
Christian Women's Celebrations invite everyone to a mother and daughter Royal Teatime Banquet on Feb. 15 at 12 noon at the Elks. Favorite Party Dresses will be modeled by princesses under 18. Beautiful songs will be presented by Jewel Most, singing princess. Speaker Princess, Paula Podgornoff will present a royal story, "Once Upon A Time". $14.50 per person included room fee, program, meal, drink, dessert, and tip. Please make reservations by Feb. 7 by contacting Cindy Bennets at email@example.com or 560-0395. Complimentary tickets for first timers and princesses under 18. Let us know if your daughter would like to be a model.
The Colorado Workforce Center will present a workshop on how to fill out a paper application and how to create a resume at the Dolores Public Library on Friday, Feb.7 from 1 to 3 p.m. To sign up for this class please contact the library at 882-4127.
Saturday, Feb. 8
Lu Nettleton of the Colorado Plateau Growers Association will present a workshop on the local production of marijuana at the Dolores Public Library 1004 Railroad on Saturday, Feb. 8, at 12:30 p.m. Several topics will be discussed including the difference between marijuana and hemp, GMO/patented seed vs. organic seed, farmers' rights vs. monopoly rights, and the potential for profit. For further information please call the Dolores Public Library at 882-4127.
Four Corners Beekeepers Assoc, "The Buzz Club" is sponsoring beginning beekeeping classes at Let It Grow Nursery in Cortez. The class will be in two sessions, Feb. 8 and 15, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will cost $40 for both sessions. Both top-bar and Langstroth hives will be shown. For more info or to reserve a space, contact Tina at (970) 884-8190
Southwestern Colorado Livestock Association's annual meeting will be held at the Cortez Elks Lodge on Saturday, Feb. 8. The morning session will begin at 9:30 a.m. followed with a potluck at noon provided by Southwestern Cowbelles. The Business meeting and election of Directors will be at 1 p.m., Steak Dinner and the presentation of awards for Southwestern Cowbelle of the Year and Stockman of the Year will be at 7 p.m. Dance to the music of "Vanishing Breed" will begin at 8 p.m. From 3 to 10 p.m. there will be a silent auction to benefit the Scholarship Fund. For more information about the event or the Scholarship fund call 565-1972.
The next USDA Commodity Distribution will be Feb. 8 in Cortez at the Fairgrounds (30100 Hwy 160) from 8 to 8:30 a.m., in Dolores at the Fire Hall (45 Railroad Ave.) from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., and in Mancos at the United Methodist Church (470 Grand Ave.) from 7:30 to 8 a.m. Must bring a box large enough for your commodities.
Monday, Feb. 10
The Four Corners Community Band will begin practice Feb. 10, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 100 North Market, Cortez. Prospective members are invited to attend. Visitors are welcome. For more information see www.fourcornerscommunityband.com or call 564-1245.
Tuesday, Feb. 11
The Cortez Public Library is holding a free Online Dating Workshop on Feb.11 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Learn how to find sites that are right for you, how to create your profile and about online communication safety. For more information call 565-8117.
Thursday, Feb. 13
The Four Corners Back Country Horsemen will hold their monthly meeting on Feb. 13 at 7 p.m. at the Pine River Senior Center in Bayfield. Guests are encouraged to attend. This month's topic is Horse Anatomy by Dr. Ben Hufnagel. For more information visit www.4cbch.org or contact Pat Amthor, chapter president, at 970-382-0980 or email@example.com
The Cortez High School will hold a blood drive on Feb. 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Gym. Drink plenty of water and eat before donating. Bring photo ID and donor card. 16 & 17 year old students must have a Minor Permit signed by a parent/guardian before they will be able to donate. To schedule an appointment call 565-3722 ext. 133 or visit online at www.UnitedBloodServices.org. sponsor code: cortezhs
Friday, Feb 14
Get your fix of country music On Valentine's Day, Feb. 14, at 7 p.m. Dance with "Country Fix", at The American Legion, 320 N. Harrison, Cortez. $5 cover charge
Surprise your Valentine with a Bavarian Cream Puff. Beautiful large puffs in a decorated box; $6 each or 2 for $10. Pre-order at Madison House, 120 S. Madison St. Cortez 565-2047 for pick-up on Feb. 14. Or they can deliver to Cortez Businesses for a $2 additional fee.
Saturday, Feb. 15
Cheri Valle presents a Victorian Fashions and Dressmaking Techniques workshop at the Cortez Cultural Center, Feb. 15 at 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch on your own. Members free, $5 all others. Pre-registration requested by calling the Center 565-1151.
The League of Women Voters of Montezuma County will hold a breakfast meeting at 9 a.m. on Feb. 15 at the Ponderosa in Dolores. Mike Preston, General Manager of the Dolores Water Conservancy District will discuss "Snowpack's, kayaks, water taps and seepage facts" For more information call 564-0708.
A Business Planning Course is being offered by Small Business Development Center, for beginning or experienced business owners. The course starts on Sat., Feb. 15 in Cortez and continues on each Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. through March 22 at the Cortez Welcome Center. Tuition is $280 for two people. Scholarships are available. To register, call 247-7009. For more details call Cindy at 882-4222.
Sunday, Feb. 16
The Anasazi Heritage Center presents David Mattson, of Yale University, Feb. 16, at 1 p.m. for his presentation "Lions in Your Back Yard." Free to the public. Contact the Center at 882-5600 for information on upcoming events or go to their website at http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/ahc.html
Wednesday, Feb. 19
Jim and Karen Mischke present the Cheetah Conservation fund, a non- profit in Namibia that is engaged in saving the cheetah on Feb. 19 at 7 p.m. in the Gallery at the Cortez Cultural Center. Educational videos highlight the successful program and are a good fit for children and families. Free to members, $5 all others. Call 565-1151 for more information or visit www.cortezculturalcenter.org
Thursday, Feb. 20
Free Home Buyer Class will be held on Feb. 20 at 4 Corners Properties in Cortez. Learn the basic information you need to start buying a home. Register now, space is limited. Call or email Terry Woodrow at 560-1318, firstname.lastname@example.com to sign up.
Thursday, Feb. 27
The public is invited to the Cortez Public Library Storytime on Feb. 27 to join children's author Melanie Milburn while she reads her book "Imagination, It's Up To You." The library is at 202 N. Park St. in Cortez and can be reached at 565-8117.
Friday, Feb. 28
The 9th Annual Lewis Arriola Community Center "Warm Up" chili and cornbread supper will be Feb. 28 at 6 p.m. at 21176 MC Road S. (1/2 mile west of US 491). This is the primary fundraiser for the center. Funds raised help offset operating and maintenance expenses. There will be homemade chili and cornbread and an old-fashioned pie auction. Tickets are available at the door for $5 each or for $20 or can by purchased in advance from Chan 882-7318 or Carlo 882-7816.
Monday, March 31
Cortez Cultural Center in collaboration with Conservation Colorado announces, "What does wilderness mean to you?" Youth Poetry Contest. Submission deadline is March 31. Email submissions to email@example.com or Anne at firstname.lastname@example.com. Poetry reading and awards ceremony with Dave Mason will be April 18 at the Cortez Cultural Center, details to follow. For submission guidelines or more information call 565-1151.
First Friday
First Friday Leadership is held the first Friday of every month at First National Bank in Cortez from 8 to 9 a.m. Join the free event at 7:45 a.m. for coffee and doughnuts. For more information, call Dena at 565-3414.
Second Wednesday
Southwest Inter-Tribal Voice and Montelores Human Rights Committee meets at 6 p.m. the second Wednesday of every month at the Community Meeting Room in First National Bank. Email Art Neskahi at email@example.com.
Second Thursday
The Cortez Area Chamber of Commerce will hold Business After Hours at various locations from 5 to 7 p.m. the second Thursday of the month. For more information, call 565-3414.
Republican Women of Montezuma County invite the public to meet at noon every second Thursday at Shilo's Steakhouse at 5 Veach St., in Cortez. For information, call Rosemarie Beall at 564-1576.
A Free legal self-help clinic for Montezuma County parties without an attorney will be held the second Thursday of every month from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Mancos Public Library, 211 W. First St. Volunteer attorneys will assist one-on-one, via computer link. First come first-served basis.
Third Sunday
Jennifer Hope will host Literary Explorations, a free ongoing discussion group exploring all kinds of writings, both fiction and nonfiction, upstairs at the Cortez Cultural Center at 6:30 p.m. every third Sunday of the month.
Third Wednesday
The Cortez Area Chamber of Commerce Luncheon will be held at noon the third Wednesday of the month at Shiloh Steakhouse. For more information, call 565-3414.
First and Third Thursdays
Planning committee for the 10th Annual Ute Mountain-Mesa Verde Birding Festival meets at 10 a.m. on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month upstairs at the Cortez Cultural Center. Anyone interested in volunteering is welcome to attend. Call 565-1151 for details.
Fourth Tuesday
A new Republican woman's club has been formed locally called 4 Corners Republican Women's Club. Regular meetings are held the fourth Tuesday of the month at 11:30 a.m. at the Cortez Elk's Lodge. For more information, please call 565-2197.
Every Sunday
First United Methodist Church has a Native American Worship Service at 2 p.m. every Sunday. For more information call 565-3002.
Every Monday
The public is invited to join the Southwest Singers as they begin rehearsals for the fall season. The choir practices at 6:30 p.m. Monday evenings at First United Methodist Church in Cortez, 515 N. Park. For more information, call Director Ruth Wilson Francisco at 872-3870.
Every Wednesday
The Way Christian Church has a Bible Studies class every Wednesday at 6 p.m.
Every Friday
Every Friday at 6 p.m. the Tree of Life In Jesus Messianic Community (Etz-Chayim B'Yeshua) will begin a new Bible Study Series: "Survey of Messianic Judaism" at Baptist Chapel, 1509 Colorado Hwy 145. For more information, call 970-562-4217 or email email@example.com


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This includes one of the most densely ethnically diverse populations in the country with Americans from all states, and immigrants from all over the world, with a
Hiring a world class moving company will save you from a tremendous burden of stress that accompanies preparing for and executing your relocation as well as a great deal of time and effort that can be used for setting up a new life in a new community.
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Each relocation calls for skilled, well trained labor and equipment designed for the safe handling of everything from that fragile set of china, that beautiful glass front curio cabinet, your state of the art plasma television, the impossible to replace family heirloom or piano and delicate items like lamps, glass table tops and mirrors. You need professionals.
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October 6, 2009
Mike Welch + Karaoke = I think I might want to marry him!
I think this was at Chicago Twi-Con.
Thanks ROBsessed
- Lorabell
P.s. If you never saw his dance for NoMoreMarbles - scoot to 6.30 and enjoy:
7 comments:
He is insane and I love it! He needs to enter Oprah's Karaoke competition.ReplyDelete
oh. my. god. that was good!! Too funny!!!ReplyDelete
yes that was from the chicago creation event.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousOctober 6, 2009 at 7:55 PM
oh my god! I LOVE HIM! He's so sexy.<33ReplyDelete
I get sick pleasure seeing the Lexicon get their news from you. ;o)ReplyDelete
hahahaha this guy is crazy!!!! First video is awesome!!! haahaReplyDelete
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DETROIT - A just-filed indictment that's more than 100 pages alleges former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick took kickbacks while in office and was involved in extortion schemes.
The superceding federal document was filed Wednesday and focuses on four names: Kilpatrick, former city contractor Bobby Ferguson, Bernard Kilpatrick and former Detroit water department director Victor Mercado. The four are accused of running a criminal enterprise. Kilpatrick and his father are already facing a September 2012 trial on federal corruption charges.
Read the indictment: here.
One instance listed in the indictment accuses Kilpatrick of insisting his father's company be hired as a consultant to build a restaurant in Ford Field. When the developer refused, Kilpatrick allegedly pulled back city funding.
In another case, when a developer wanted to open a restaurant in Asian Village, Kilpatrick allegedly insisted the developer pay $10,000 to former aide Derrick Miller if he expected to get any loans from the city's retirement fund.
Miller is accused of transferring bribe money between the enterprise members, at one time handing over $10,000 to Kilpatrick in a restaurant bathroom. The document alleges Kilpatrick accepted $115,000 in cash kickbacks from the lease and sale of city properties.
The indictment also charges Ferguson with seven new charges of money laundering and witness tampering.
Kilpatrick pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice and resigned from office in 2008 after he lied at a civil trial to cover up an extramarital affair with his chief of staff, which was exposed through a series of graphic text messages. That lawsuit cost Detroit $8.4 million.
Kilpatrick was imprisoned in May 2010 for failing to disclose assets and surrender sufficient funds that could have reduced his $1 million restitution to Detroit. He was released Aug. 2, 2011, and has moved to Texas with his wife and three sons.
Copyright 2011 by ClickOnDetroit.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


text:
Some slow idea to share this holiday season. Cheers!
CSA Share
Chelsea Green Books------We still have copies of the terra madre book
Heirloom Starter Plants
Slow Food Event Pack
Farm Tour
Membership - Plenty of time to submit online
More ideas coming. Add your suggestions and finds in the comments.


text:
The present action in European financials reminds me of a slow-motion repetition of U.S. financials' action in 2008. It is more orderly and grinding, but is it really that different? At the risk of oversimplification, the problems with U.S. financials were their overleveraged balance sheets and the collapse of various mortgage securities that were improperly rated for the risk they carried. The problem with European financials is the decline in the prices of euro-denominated sovereign bonds — many also improperly rated for the risk they carry — as well as the mounting nonperforming loans in peripheral banking systems.
The European situation is more multi-faceted in nature and probably more difficult to solve, as the problem is as much political as it is financial. Investors looking for opportunities in the wake of the European Central Bank's plan of unlimited, but conditional, buying of peripheral sovereign bonds have many options, from emerging markets' small-caps to bombed-out European financials.
While I see upside in emerging markets' small-caps, I am less confident about European financials. Put frankly, I do not know if the euro will survive. If it does, plenty of European banks that currently trade at discounts to book value will perform well – but after the storm has passed. If the euro does not survive, the resulting currency volatility and spiking interest rates in the periphery are sure to make matters worse for European financials with large exposure to exiting countries.
Although they are cheap, trying to bottom-tick European banks is an exercise in futility. I felt this way in the spring stabilization in European financials, and I feel the same way now. This problem is as much about European bank stocks as it is about sovereign bonds, as no stabilization in the former will come without stabilization in the latter.
Spanish 10-year sovereign bond yields surged 31 basis points last week, closing at 6.06% on Wednesday before retreating a bit into today. The closing high from this past summer is 7.62% on those same bonds; you don't need more than a couple bad bond auctions and the typical news that comes out of Spain to trade above that level. Should this happen, Spanish bank stocks – the ones heavily long Spanish government bonds — would likely trade toward their summer lows.
There is a lot of value in some of those financials, yet it is difficult to unlock. Banco Santander (NYSE:SAN) is a good example: On the day it spun off its Mexican subsidiary by selling a 24.9% stake, SAN shares were down 4.1% with the rout in Spanish bonds. The shares of its freshly IPO'ed Mexican unit were up 6.9% on the first day of trading. (Investors placed $20 billion in orders, or 4.8 times the IPO shares offered, to get their hands on the Mexican subsidiary.) This offering prices the Mexican unit's shares at 2.4 times book value, while the shares of the parent — which keeps a three-quarters stake — currently trade at 0.8 times book.
Santander is a good example of how the whole can be worth less than the sum of the parts. Banco Santander-Chile (NYSE:BSAC), one of the main banks in South America's most-developed economy, trades at 3.1 times book value, while Banco Santander (Brasil) (NYSE:BSBR) trades at 0.9 times book. (The Brazilian economy has slowed significantly on fatigue in consumer spending, which is pressuring all Brazilian banks.) Still, if it were possible to separate the shares of the Spanish-only part of Santander and let the separately funded international subsidiaries go on their own, the book value multiple for the parent may be even more depressed.
This is because in 2011, Santander's lending in Spain and Portugal fell by 4.6% and 5.6%, respectively, due to deleveraging, while lending in the U.K. was up 4.6% and Latin America up a whopping 17.9%. (Loans in local currency rose 20.3% in Brazil, 7.3% in Chile, and 30.9% in Mexico.) Continental Europe accounted for 42% of Santander's 2011 total lending (29% Spain), the U.K. 34%, Latin America 19% (11% Brazil), and Sovereign 5%. While fiscal 2012 is still ongoing, we are witnessing very similar trends.
I do not mean to pick on Santander, which is a banking conglomerate that has made progress in Latin American emerging markets — the issues it is facing at home are not of its making. Spain's other large financial, BBVA (NYSE:BBVA), also trades at a price to book of 0.8 and is facing the same problems.
If you want to bottom-fish for value with European financials, you may be better off with their separately funded emerging markets' subsidiaries with no exposure to Europe.
Ivan Martchev is a research consultant with institutional money manager Navellier & Associates. The opinions expressed are his own. Navellier & Associates does not hold positions in any of the stocks mentioned in this article for its clients. This is neither a recommendation to buy nor sell the stocks mentioned in this article. Investors should consult their financial adviser prior to making any decision to buy or sell the aforementioned securities. Investing in non-U.S. securities including ADRs involves significant risks, such as fluctuation of exchange rates, that may have adverse effects on the value of the security. Securities of some foreign companies may be less liquid and prices more volatile. Information regarding securities of non-U.S. issuers may be limited.


text:
Hey all,
This is just a heads up. I know probably most of you have heard about Virgin's plans to lop-side the internet freedom. They think it is a good idea to make sure that their customers visit their sponsors' sites by giving them a bigger pipe to those sites. Basically if you pay their sponsors then you get become a premium member and get faster internet to those sites. This is a problem because they are going to limit the size of the pipe to those that prefer not to visit those sites. This is a pretty big problem, and it is very real.
Like I said I know some of you have heard it already. Just trying to let some of the people that don't know... know.
Here is a link with more info - http://stopvirgin.movielol.org/


text:
To whom it may concern,
I hope this is the right thread, sorry if it isnt.
Being a long time user of ZA I am used to having (on alerts) "remember me" setting tick box but with the new ZA i have - it is missing! and it is truly annoying
How do I turn it on?


text:
Talgo will perform final assembly of the car order at facilities yet to be determined in Wisconsin, generating up to 80 jobs, said Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle Friday. Each train set has a capacity of 420 passengers.
"Today we are embarking on a new era of passenger rail service that creates high-skilled jobs, spurs economic growth, and makes travel safe and comfortable," Doyle said. The governor made his announcement at Dane County Regional Airport in Madison, touting the deal as the Badger State's first step toward implementing high speed rail.
Amtrak currently operates Talgo equipment on its Cascades Service in the Pacific Northwest; Talgo subsidiary Talgo, Inc., is based in Seattle.


text:
Hello everyone
I'd like to ask if the following sentence sounds good.
Managers and employees inclined to the fact that in the work of employees it is important to be guided by interests and expectations of business partners and clients, it is important for them to understand their position, to understand the way they see the situation."
The phrase "it is important for them" refers to employees.
The phrase "the way they see the situation" refers to business partners and clients.
How about:
Managers and employees are inclined to believe that for the employee, it is important to be guided by the interests and expectations of the business partners and clients, and it is important for the employee to understand the client's position and the way they see the situation."


text: I am reading some data from file. One of the data is stored in a character array. The file has some end of line delimeter. As a result I the character array is also getting the end of line dilimeter . My question is how to remove this end of line delimeter from the character.


text: Hey guys, wonder if you can help. I'm a 17 year old from the UK starting on the ITF Futures tour this year. I'm 6 foot 5 and really should have a killer first serve, but it's only really up to about 110mph if I'm lucky! I know I should be winning a lot more service games than I am doing and I just can't get to the bottom of the problem! I have a problem with the joint in my shoulder and it moves out of positions if I hit big when I'm not warm... Any ideas on what I should do? Cheers!


text:
Separate names with a comma.
Discussion in 'Racing' started by Strong Bad, Oct 7, 2012.
so no major suspension changes ? right on !
I cant wait to race against the Blazer this year, its by far one my all time favorite off road cars. One of the coolest things about NORRA is that there are cars running today, that competed raced each other in the old days.
Sway-away is making new torsion bars front & rear. The car is being brought back to the 1974 car when Scoop Vessels & Bob Gordon raced it, It will be all black with the gold Vessels Stables logo. In 74 it ran re-buildable Gabriel shocks, there are Rough Countrys on it now which are just about the same thing. They will prolly get painted Gabriel white and run after re-building. The car has 10 inches of travel in the front & 11 in the rear. Here is a pic of the rear torsion bar suspension:
The silver can in the pic holds the water jug for the drinking system.
We are still waiting to hear if Malcolm Smith will be one of the drivers or not, he is supposed to have back surgery in the next couple of weeks or so.
Thanks for the perspective. I guess I've been out of the racing scene for too long.
I am definately a klr type person (having never owned a klr) I'm way too cheap to pay for a guide on just about any place on this planet.
Fuel capacity will not be a problem.
Who knows. Maybe WI will submit a team 2wd.
Motorcycle entries are already at 25! Going to be a big increase in participation this year I reckon.
Yep mine just went through earlier today.......#357 on your scorecard but #1 in your heart
S and S offroad magazine had a great treat for me in January featuring a Norra ad using a shot from Bink Designs of me going past the San Javier Mission
Then I got the link for the February and bam ... got slapped again!
S&S Off Road Magazine has been published by off roaders for off roaders since 1982. Reader driven, we print what YOU send in!
The magazine is ran by a great couple and covers all kinds of desert racing. They also run a offroad camp for kids at risk .. thundering trails
I didnt know about this mag but will be a subscriber from now on
I guess I have to race now that they used me as the ad man ...
That is an awesome photo!! Very cool indeed!!
I can't remember who, but one of you guys did the sweet Dakar style Number Plates for last year's race....any plans on offering these again? I loved the rally raid look of them and thought I'd like to use it on the car this year.
Baja Dad got that organized
maybe I should keep the old 640 instead of replacing her a lighter sexier mount.
Do you mean these???
I will be doing them again this year also! I want to change it up a little
I will post the design very soon.......
I can also do larger ( Race car/trucks/Support size decals also)
Also complete bikes front and side plates
so I will need too know
Bike make:
Bike Year:
Race number:
I will be able to take paypal tis year
Yes those!!
I might just be interested in larger ones for the Subaru....#12
I gotta' say, those were so cool!
you all are saying with a 2K entry fee the organizer doesn't provide the number plate?
That is what we are saying.
Never have I every been given a number plate for any race in the last 40years
I have been given CRAPY peel and stick numbers ( AMA races)
Everybody keeps bring up the 2k entry fee ------- why?????? 4-days of racing
this is way cheeper then most Score races....................
racing is not for the Faint at hart!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
See below:
Originally Posted by wrk2surf
here is prices from just ONE of the tour groups running in baja
General Pricing:
3 Days - 4 Nights $1895
5 Days - 6 Nights $2895
7 Days - 8 Nights $3795
and thats just that.. a tour .. not a race
if you look up how much the entry is for the vegas to reno and times it by 4 this race is just about even cost wise only it runs the peninsula !!
SWEEEEEET! I'll be in for some!
Awesome Baja dad, u even have my number 12 in that sample. I'll get with u later via pm!
I'm signed up and looking forward to my first Mexican 1000. Tim Morton is moving my gear along each day but I'm otherwise coming down alone with no crew or pit support (it seems Mag 7 isn't a great option).
Couple of questions so I can prepare:
It looks like the longest special last year was 175 miles. Does it make sense to run a 19 liter tank (instead of my current 13 liter on my 500xcw) and not have to worry about any sort of fueling during a stage? (I'm thinking YES)
Are Pemex stations along the transit sections a reliable source of fuel? Or do I need to weasel a fuel can along with another teams support crew.
Do I need to carry food and water for the entire day? or stash a care package with another team or race organizer?
Is there any riding at night? Should I bring along my helmet light?
Any other stupid questions I should be asking?
I would say more fuel is always a good bet.
The Pemex stations are great if you get to them when they are open. One mechanical problem that ties you up for hours making repairs, and you might not make it there. Good luck figuring out which team to stash a can with. The only time that you'll see a chase crew is on a laison or end/beginning of a stage. Unless someone is only chasing you, then you really can't plan on that. Having the emergency only service from Mag 7 might be an option. I too am very disappointed in what happened last year with them...especially since they never really apologized or offered a discount for returning members as a show of good faith.....because when you sign up, you become a member. Not a great way to treat a member.
This also goes for riding at night. Even if you are slow, you should not end up driving at night..unless you have a mechanical or injury that literally stops you for a while. I would at least have enough lighting so you could ride out at normal speed. Because if your that late, there's no reason to speed, you would have already accrued the penalty points...get there safe.
I would carry enough food and water to allow you to spend the night or more in the desert. On the laisons, nothing stops you from getting a taco, but you do want to keep moving. I would stash a cooler with Tim so you have some goodies waiting for you at the bivy so you know you'll have something to eat.
People (racers and locals) will always help you, but it is good practice to plan ahead. Just like how you should dress for the crash, you might want to prep for the break-down.
Of course these are just my opinions as a relative noob. I'm sure the Baja gurus here have much more insight to offer.
You can never have enough fuel!!!!!
stations are hit and miss
You'll need fuel on day one after stage one before stage to no gas Station
You can get gas at the end of special stage II day one in San Felipe
And special stage 3 there is gas in Gonzaga Most of the time But that gas
station is in the middle of the special test the special test
Then there is gas most of the time in the bay of LA
That is his day one if it was up to me I would run the big tank
But that's just my opinion


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Donations 11-21-12
Arrowhead Credit Union, San Bernardino, Calif., honored Homeless Awareness Month by donating 250 bags with groceries for the homeless. The effort was spearheaded by Doribel Martinez, who works in collections for Arrowhead Credit Union. Martinez's idea grew to be an organization-wide effort. Arrowhead¹s Riverside Branch manager, Sam Clark, reached out to a local grocery store to have bags donated to collect the food; other team members volunteered to deliver the filled bags to a Mary's Mercy Center, a local charity.
Christian Community Credit Union's, San Dimas, Calif., held the first ever Office Olympics in conjunction with the 2012 Summer Olympics and raised $500 for the Special Olympics Southern California. To bring more value and significance to the Office Olympics festivities, employees donated five dollars in exchange for wearing jeans to work. Hosted by the Credit Union's Social Committee, the day began with an Olympic Breakfast of Champions followed by Opening Ceremonies. Employees competed in two Olympic Games—the Discus Throw and a Water Relay Race. At the Closing Ceremonies, the Social Committee awarded Gold, Silver and Bronze medals to the winning teams and individuals.
Coastal Federal Credit Union, Raleigh, N.C., held their first annual Share the Love Community Yard Sale on Nov. 3, which raised over $1,850 for Habitat for Humanity of Wake County. Coastal partnered with Habitat for Humanity of Wake County in efforts to raise $100,000 for the construction of a new fall 2013 Habitat home The fundraising initiative called "Share the Love" encompasses numerous events throughout the year to raise money, awareness and opportunities for individuals within the community to participate and donate.
Consumers Credit Union, South Haven, Mich., launched its Holiday Food Drive to run through Dec. 15th and has partnered with local food pantries to ensure all donations stay in local areas. This year, Consumers' fourteen offices in Kalamazoo, Portage, Mattawan, Lawton, Coldwater, Holland, and South Haven chose to focus their holiday donation efforts on supporting local food banks. All member donations stay local, with offices in the greater Kalamazoo area partnering with the Food Bank of South Central Michigan. In South Haven, contributions will be made to We Care I.N.C., while donations at the Holland offices will go to the Holland Rescue Mission.
Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, Tampa, Fla., launched a fund-raising campaign called, "Show Us Ya Got Heart," at the start of 2012 to support the American Heart Association of Tampa Bay. To date the employees and members of the Credit Union have raised a total of $18,000.00 to assist with local research and treatment programs. Throughout the year, employees at the Grow Financial corporate office and in the branches sponsored a number of activities to raise money, including bake sales, golf tournaments, jeans day passes, and a 50/50 raffle, all leading up to the 2012 Tampa Bay Heart Walk on November 10 at Raymond James Stadium, in which more than 116 employees and members participated.
Industrial Centre Federal Credit Union, Muncie, Ind., has kicked off its annual Christmas Families program again this year. ICFCU has held the Christmas program for over 20 years. This year, ICFCU has chosen to donate to the Secret Families Christmas Charity and the Muncie Fire Department's Toys for Tots. Secret Families Christmas Charity helps bring Christmas to families in need in East Central Indiana. ICFCU members and community members can visit either branch through November 20th to make a monetary donation to Secret Families or visit either branch through December 7th and make a monetary or toy donation to Toys for Tots. Donations can be dropped off in the lobbies of the credit union at 4501 S Delaware Dr. or 2610 N Wheeling Ave.
Kern Schools Federal Credit Union, Bakersfield, Calif., participated in the Children's Miracle Network's Miracle Balloon and Miracle Jeans Day campaigns from August through September and raised more than $5, 430, 00. The raised funds are targeted for children's services at Bakersfield Memorial Hospital, where Children's Miracle Network provides comfort and treatment to children suffering from both common childhood afflictions as well as life threatening illnesses. As part of the Miracle Balloon campaign, Kern Schools promoted the very recognizable red and yellow Miracle balloons at all branch locations. For a donation of $1.00 or more, members were able to place a name on a Miracle balloon for display in branch lobbies. Kern Schools team members also showed their support by participating in Miracle Jeans Day, which for a $5.00 donation allowed an individual to wear jeans on a given work day.
Lacamas Community Credit Union, Camas, Wash., is sponsoring its Holiday Dinner Basket Program, which allows members to nominate other members in need—or themselves—to receive a festive holiday food basket for a traditional holiday dinner. The baskets typically contain packaged grocery items such as stuffing mix, gravy, cranberry sauce, vegetables and pumpkin pie filling, along with a gift card to purchase meat, dairy products or produce. Lacamas President/CEO Kathleen Romane created the program in 2008 in response to the recession's effects. Lacamas accepts online nominations until November 30th. Members interested in submitting nominations can complete the form on the credit union's web site, www.lacamas.org.
McCoy Federal Credit Union, Orlando, Fla., raised over $30,000 in early November to help prevent, cure and stop diabetes. It was the highest fund raising amount by any first year corporate team for Central Florida. Over 177 McCoy employees with family, friends and a few pets participated in the 5K walk around Lake Baldwin. McCoy Federal Credit Union's President and CEO Alvin J. Cowans served as the ADA Walk Chair for the 2012 Step-Out Walk. As a main sponsor of the event, McCoy Federal employees held numerous fundraising events throughout the year that included a senior management cook-out, bakery sales, craft sales, raffles, and individual fundraising efforts through the end of November. Collectively, over $250,000 was raised by all teams and individuals–to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by the disease.
Northeast Georgia Chapter of Credit Unions, Athens, Ga., has donated a portion of the proceeds raised from their 17th Annual Charity Golf Tournament to the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia and Athens Regional Medical Center's Guest House. The Food Bank of Northeast Georgia, which received $500, and the Athens Regional Guest House, which received $1,000, are just two of the 11 organizations that will benefit from the Chapter's support in 2012. The Chapter designates charities in the local counties served by its 19 participating credit unions to receive funds from their annual golf tournament. The Chapter's charitable contributions for 2012 total $11,000.
Notre Dame Federal Credit Union, South Bend, Ind., partnered with The Christ Child Society of South Bend, to raise funds for the society's annual Clothe-A-Child campaign. On Nov. 7th Notre Dame FCU's President and CEO, Tom Gryp, presented The Christ Child Society of South Bend with a check for $12,165. All proceeds go directly toward purchasing new clothing, cold weather attire, and shoes for at-risk area children. Over the past sixteen years, the credit union and its members have contributed over $207,000 to Clothe-A-Child.
St. Anne's Credit Union, Fall River, Mass., employees came together at Holiday Lanes in Westport to bowl for a good cause. Junior Achievement of Southern Massachusetts' annual Bowling Classic is always well received by the employees, and they raised over $800 for the organization this year. In addition to supporting the Bowling Classic every year, St. Anne's has multiple employees that volunteer their time in local classrooms to teach financial literacy to K-12 students. With more than 65 years of experience, Junior Achievement of Southern Massachusetts offers college and career readiness and entrepreneurship education to more than 4,000 local students. JA empowers students to make a connection between what they learn in school and how it can be applied in the real world, enhancing relevance of their classroom learning and increasing their understanding of the value of staying in school. St. Anne's hopes to have even more teams to bowl in the upcoming years and will continue to service local schools through Junior Achievement.
Scient Federal Credit Union, Groton, Conn., formed a team of employee volunteers, family, and friends, and made it their mission to raise money for breast cancer awareness. Credit union employees rallied together and raised over $2,000 for the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk at Harkness Park in Waterford, Conn. Team Scient Federal Credit Union showed up to the walk on October 28 with 27 walkers-all wearing their Scient Federal Credit Union shirts with a pink ribbon and the credit union's "With you at every phase" tag line-and handed in a check for over $2,000 before participating in the walk.
Trademark Federal Credit Union, Augusta, Maine, recently selected the Augusta Food Bank as the first recipient of the Griffin-Guerrette Charitable Giving Fund. The fund was established in 2012 to recognize the career contributions of Judith A. Griffin and Paul J. Guerrette whose careers spanned four decades with the Credit Union. The fund awards $1,000 in November of each year to one Augusta area non-profit organization serving the human services, social welfare or other charitable needs of the community.


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trying to install xfce on openSuse 10.2 / amd athlon with the graphical installer, I have the following error during build :
checking what sound system to use... alsa
checking for pkg-config... /usr/bin/pkg-config
checking for pkg-config >= 0.9.0... 0.20
checking for alsa >= 0.9.0... not found
*** The required package alsa was not found on your system.
*** Please install alsa (atleast version 0.9.0) or adjust
*** the PKG_CONFIG_PATH environment variable if you
*** installed the package in a nonstandard prefix so that
*** pkg-config is able to find it.
!! Failed to configure xfce4-mixer, see the errors above
!! for details on the problem.
I do have a alsa directory : /usr/share/alsa
Is that the one I'm supposed to add to PKG_CONFIG_PATH ?
If so, is it as simple as adding /usr/share in
# determine PATH
export PATH
with a line
PATH="${PATH}:/usr/share" ?
Thanks for your advice,
Manuel, beginner ...
I don't know the suse package but it's the dev version not just alsa you need.
Do an rpm search for alsa and install one with dev as well and then try again.
Simon. (^_^)
TIP: Proofread carefully to see if you any words out.
It's looking for a file with a .pc extension, probably alsa.pc. These *.pc files are typically found in places like /usr/lib/pkgconfig; i.e., the pkgconfig subdirectory of the various lib directories on your system. They contain information about the associated package that is used to help configure other packages. Open one in your favorite text editor and take a look (just don't hcange anything).
The pkg-config utility searches common locations by default for these configuration files. If you happen to install things in out of the way locations, you would need to tell pkg-config where to look. As the error message clearly states, you would set your PKG_CONFIG_PATH (not PATH). For example,
export PKG_CONFIG_PATH=$PKG_CONFIG_PATH:/home/audionuma/strange/location/lib/pkgconfig
SimonJ is correct (although much less annoyingly verbose than I), install the ALSA development package for SuSE and you *should* have the appropriate *.pc file in a standard location.
1. Help the ReliaFree Project --> http://reliafree.sourceforge.net
2. Distribution --> Cross Linux from Scratch
3. Registered Linux user #413054
4. (C)LFS user #17727.
5. Ask smart --> http://www.catb.org/%7Eesr/faqs/smart-questions.html
Thanks to SimonJ and weibullguy, the alsa-devel package was not installed.
Going on now,
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The Royal Gorge (also Grand Canyon of the Arkansas) is a canyon on the Arkansas River near Cañon City, Colorado. With a width of 50 feet (15 m) at its base and a few hundred feet at its top, and a depth of 1,250 feet (380 m) in places, the 10-mile-long canyon is a narrow, steep gorge through the granite of Fremont Peak. It is one of the deepest canyons in Colorado.
The United States is one of the most diverse countries on earth, jam packed full of amazing sights from St. Patrick's cathedral in New York to Mount Hollywood California.The Northeast region is where it all started. Thirteen British colonies fought the American Revolution from here and won their independence in the first successful colonial rebellion in history. Take a look at these rolling hills carpeted with foliage along the Hudson river here, north of New York City.The American south is known for its polite people and slow pace of life. Probably they move slowly because it's so hot. Southerners tend not to trust people from "up north" because they talk too fast. Here's a cemetery in Georgia where you can find graves of soldiers from the Civil War.The West Coast is sort of like another country that exists to make the east coast jealous. California is full of nothing but grizzly old miners digging for gold, a few gangster rappers, and then actors. That is to say, the West Coast functions as the imagination of the US, like a weird little brother who teases everybody then gets famous for making freaky art.The central part of the country is flat farmland all the way over to the Rocky Mountains. Up in the northwest corner you can find creative people in places like Portland and Seattle, along with awesome snowboarding and good beer. Text by Steve Smith.