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Much time is expended debating the merits and demerits of individual possession of arms. Particularly here in the United States where those who choose to can enjoy a great deal of government permission to own, trade and use a variety of small arms.
Usually I often avoid these debates, particularly online, as they tend to be emotional and rarely logical or factual. It's also a topic I avoid writing much about as directly – As in my life, in my writing ownership of firearms (and armament in general) is a constant undercurrent. It is all at once foundation to, representative of, and wholly entwined in what I believe about personal freedom, capability, responsibility and even human nature itself. Particularly in the case of this Armed Bohemian business, armament is an essential (definitional) quality, and I have accordingly spoken of armament both as the right to keep and bear arms and as more than simple possession of a gun.
Recently I was drawn into one of these discussions, and the response I composed brought together a series of thoughts I'd been trying to assemble in written form, for the Armed Bohemian. It is still a sort of rambling screed, but what the hell, its a place to begin.
The right to keep and bear arms is a Human right, at a very fundamental level. By all appearances skill-at-arms (whatever those arms may be) is deeply hardwired into us, perhaps even deeper than many other technological skills that are presently common to humans, i.e. fire, some form of protective clothing, etc. Armament is an essential part of who we are as humans, given that our forward progress is directly tied to our technological process, and one of the dominant tech areas contributing to our rise has been improved hunting and warfare technologies. Human beings keep moving forward, regardless of any societal pressures, and advancing these systems and taking them on at an individual level. We're wired to make, own, and be competitive with, modern armament, starting as individuals.
This can be directly observed today with the Makers crowd (small batch, garage, tech dev. and manufacturing) beginning to DIY aerial drone platforms that are quickly headed towards functionally outstripping US Predator/Reaper platforms. What is emerging is that if the drone performs (and inexpensive, >$50, guidance systems available off-the-shelf ensure it can ), the weapons package doesn't need to be as advanced as a missile. The drone could have a very crude container release and still mount effective weapons package, which would cost a target hundreds of thousands (if not millions) to knock out of the air, but only a few thousand at most to build. So far, none of the open source innovators working on these things want to use them as weapons, they just want to build them "because". "Because", it could be argued is the Red Queen at work: Someone somewhere got ahead and the others are running faster simply to keep up. This seems to be the natural course, and is not at all abated or slowed down by state regulation or monopoly on armament, even advanced. Introduction of a monopoly on such systems actually creates greater pressure to innovate competitive solutions.
The point here is not to argue that everyone needs a Reaper drone, but the fact that people as autonomous individuals, not employed by a state contractor or other power innovating similar technologies serves as a great example (to my way of thinking at least) of the natural order in which the individual organism, and his/her hardwired evolutionary need to be competitive, behaves with regard to possession and use of armaments.
The small batch DIY-Drone innovators are also representative of something else I see happening. While many are still stuck on arguments about firearms, or knife, ownership and possession, there are others who are moving further forward – Development and possession of arms of the type, and scale, previously limited to the possession of states and governments. With the decreasing costs of development and manufacturing, and the "small batch" revolution, innovation and production of advanced technology is not limited to the laboratories of major governments and their contractors. People may not be building missile systems in their garages, but what they are doing is creating solutions that, while different, are increasingly competitive with the armaments of state.
How long this lasts, legally, may be a worthwhile question. The regulation of arms and armament is, to an extent, mandatory for the state (although only recently, in the grand scheme, has it been truly feasible in a large scale way).
This applies from possession of knives to possession of tanks. While easy to believe as "for the children" or "for the good of everyones safety", arms regulations are primarily for the benefit of the machines of state. I suspect this is more of an unconscious benefit, as most of those pushing for arms control measures are true believers (or political opportunists) doing it for the children, for the perception of safety. Though few working for disarmament of individuals see it as being for the states benefit, the natural effect is just that. It can only be that, as there is no actual benefit to the individual for being disarmed by the state.
Individuals remain threatened by predators who have accepted acting outside the rule/benefit of law. Such predators, by their very nature, can and will acquire weapons even in the strictest of societies. Meanwhile, the individuals who remain complaint with the states regulations are under-secured by the state despite their investment in it ("if I give up my ability to protect myself, you will protect me") because there is no way for the system to be able to effectively track, identify and respond to every threat to its citizenry in a preemptive manner. It is simply too complex a task to be done. Rather the system can only apply broad coverage, on a greatest benefit for the widest range basis. Out of necessity the state has made the acceptable baseline for protecting its citizens outlawing certain behaviors and acts, and trying to apprehend individuals who've committed those behaviors or acts anyway. That is a complex task anyway, but a far less complex one than trying to give protection to ever individual within the system at the very moment they encounter a predator.
Despite the failure to the individual of this system, many individuals continue their cooperation. It is not so much a direct dupe, as it is is driven by both convention and a loop of reward for cooperation. Cooperation with the state guarantees being able to reap the benefits afforded by the state; Resisting the state supposedly guarantees being unable to enjoy the benefits, and possibly meeting with the force (or greater levels of force) the state claims a monopoly on.
Early weapons bans (armament possession by serfs, sword bans in Europe and Asia, etc.) were enforced far more on the threat of meeting with the superior levels of force deliverable by the state, than by cooperation for reward. Today, in most first world states at least, that approach is little used and at least attempts to avoid it are usually taken, preferring the cooperation equals full access to benefit and non-coop equals restriction of access (imprisonment, felon status, etc.)
"I am free, no matter what rules surround me. If I find them tolerable, I tolerate them; if I find them too obnoxious, I break them. I am free because I know that I alone am morally responsible for everything I do."
Trouble for the cooperators arises in those who choose to disobey the state control in a predatory fashion – By simply the act of disobeying they find the fallibility of the state, and knowing that state-control has left many of those who cooperate in a weakened position (dependent on the state for protection it cannot possibly provide) are given new freedoms to exploit this rich victim pool.
Non-cooperators who are not predatory, but have taken means to protect themselves from such predation while appearing to be compliant, are in a much better position in this situation than true cooperators.
Among such individuals, there are those who take such means as legally as possible – Classically, and into this century, we see agrarian cultures taking up farm implements both for defense and as means of predation in the absence of easily available advanced weapons tech. We also see people producing weapons that are within the allowance of law at that time – Much of the self defense products industry is built around these types of arms, and the DIY/Small Batch'ers have shown a capability of doing this on an even greater scale.
Then there are those who will fully cross into illegal territory by obtaining more competitive armament from the black market, or by producing it themselves. Of course, they run the risk of punishment by the state, but part of the arithmetic essential to the decision to not cooperate is calculating what that risk means. If punishment is fines, or jail time, and resultant loss of rights or privileges, and not otherwise severe, what detriment to life and well-being is the states punishment, particularly in the face of possible death or great loss of advantage to predation?
The natural state is an armed state, and as time progresses the organism must maintain that, and do so aggressively and competitively. It is a natural process, yet so many are trying to make it a conscious decision and are advocating for deciding not to. That is scarier than the idea of someone firing up their 3d printer and rolling out a Reaper complete with Hellfires.
(As a note folks - The colored, underlined, bits of text are links. They are relevant and important. Rather than breaking out the style guide and writing my sources in a bibliography, I use links. This serves, sort of, to prove I am not madly ranting in my own private ideological wilderness. I also notice via analytics and sitemeter that most of you are not clicking them. You should, really. You'll learn more that way.)
A Journal on Resilience, Independence, and the Self-Assertive Personalities That Define Humanity.
Friday, March 5, 2010
The Nature of Armament
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Most of these blogs are crafty blogs but not all are. They are all just special to me, really encouraging, or I just love to see what is going to be on next. Also, since there are so many great blogs out there and I have only begun the search, check back. This is ever changing.
Now, Check-em out!
If you have a blog that you think I should because you just love it, let me know.
I'm sure I will fall in love too!

subset: commoncrawl


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While I was in Melbourne this week I particularly noticed the Autumn colours.
The first autumn leaves to catch my eye were these, cascading over a garden wall. I also made a point of visiting the Botanic Gardens.
The Royal Melbourne Botanic Gardens are situated on a swathe of parkland that slopes down to the Yarra River. The garden is divided by a small valley, with an artificial stream that runs down the hillside to a series of ornamental lakes. This view is at the high end of the garden. It shows the 'English landscape garden' style for which these gardens are famous. The yellow leafed tree in the photo is a Ginko Biloba.
Nearby is the 'oak lawn', with a variety of oaks from across the northern hemisphere. Sadly, some of these trees have been damaged or blown over in recent years during severe storms; thus the small replacement tree in the right foreground. The relatively mild climate of Melbourne, compared to the natural habitat of the oaks, results in them growing and ageing more quickly than would normally be the case.
Beside one path the sun was shining through the leaves of a smoke bush cotinus coggygria. Although it is hard to see in the photo, just to the right is a purple buddleia, that made a lovely colour contrast.
* * * * *
I'd also like to draw your attention to a posting on Emily Karanikolopoulos's blog. Her students made some delightful ikebana works from the new Sogetsu Curriculum Book Five. The exercise is a 'Composition expressing a Movement'. You will need to scroll down to the post of 23rd May.
Greetings from Christopher
3rd June 2017


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|By PR Newswire
Article Rating:
|April 4, 2013 02:38 AM EDT
BANGKOK, April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thailand is well known around the world for its exotic and vibrant tourism industry. Although there are on going expansion in other industries but tourism still remains as a major attraction in Thailand's service industry. Thailand is a popular tourist destination for its tropical climate, beaches, lively nightlife, diverse and friendly culture, delicious food, shopping centres, and its location at the heart of Southeast Asia.
(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130404/HK88732LOGO)
In 2011, Thailand suffered a major flood that left a huge impact on several industrial sectors in Thailand. Thailand tourism industry proves to be one of the most resilient in quick turn around. In 2011 tourism industry alone has earned USD 25.4 billion, well above the original target of USD 23 billion according to Thailand Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Number of tourists has also increase from 19,230,470 in 2011 to 22,303,065 in 2012 creating many opportunities for an investment in the industry that support country's tourism.
In line with expanding and growing service industry, Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) has outlined its supports through tax and non-tax incentives for investments that promote tourism and strengthen technological capacity for Thailand to achieve quality services to meet global standards and competitive advantage in the service industry.
Thailand Board of Investment, the main government agency for promoting investment in Thailand is actively promoting investment in activities that support Thailand tourism such as Yacht marinas, theme parks, cultural centers, aquariums, open zoos, convention halls and international exhibition centers are examples of activities supported by BOI. Other opportunities for investment in Thailand's tourism infrastructure are movie town, hospitals, hotels, long-term accommodations for foreign retirees, and short-haul air transport, tow boat or yacht renting, and ocean marina service.
Thailand has a long experience in service industry and is well equipped with supply of quality skilled labor, modern infrastructures, international standard services, and strong markets demand to meet the needs of the investors. For more information on investment in Thailand's service industry, please visit www.boi.go.th.
For more information, please contact:
555 Vipavadee Rangsit Road, Chatuchuck 10900
Tel: +66-2553-8111
Fax: +66-2553-8222
SOURCE The Board of Investment of Thailand
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Friday, October 18, 2013
Impact of Westgate Mall Bombing
China Radio International English ran a 25 minute program on 17 October 2013 titled "Terrorism in East Africa." It dealt primarily with the aftermath of the Westgate Mall bombing in Kenya by the al-Shabaab terrorist group. Commentary for the program was done by He Wenping, director of African studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, and myself.
Labels: al-Shabaab, AMISOM, Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya, security, Somalia, terrorism, Uganda, United States, Westgate Mall
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Last Thursday at 2:30 p.m., Independence Federal Savings Bank at 1006 E Street N.W. was robbed by a suspect who took an undetermined amount of money and fled on foot.
The Washington Examiner reports that police are still looking for the suspect. She is a white or Hispanic female, 5 feet, 6 inches tall, 140 pounds, and about 40 years old. Here is her picture:
At the time of the robbery, she was wearing a white National Mall T-shirt and khaki pants, while carrying a white canvas bag.
She is considered armed and dangerous and the FBI is asking that you call Special Agent John Dunham at 202-278-2000 if you know anything about who she is or her whereabouts.


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From Eszter Hargittai's scholarship to more recent work by marketing analytics firms, we know that race and socio-economic status shape MySpace and Facebook usage. Yet, it is the rhetoric used by participants that highlights how these distinctions play out. In an upcoming paper entitled "White Flight in Networked Publics?" (to be published in Lisa Nakamura and Peter Chow-White's upcoming anthology on Race and Digital Technology), I map out the language used by teenagers – and, to a lesser degree, adults – to explain the divisions between MySpace and Facebook. When one of the teens that I
Field Building and Scholarly Publication
As a new media researcher, I've struggled to find appropriate venues for publishing and disseminating my work. In the late nineties, when studies of online communities, cyberculture, and electronic gaming were still in their infancy, and when I was launching my scholarly career, my work was never accepted into the journals of my discipline of anthropology. Educational journals didn't recognize my work on new media and play as part of their charter. This reflected my personal failures in translating my research topics into the established idioms of my discipline and field, but I expect my experience
Welcome to the University of California's New Digital Media and Learning Research Hub and Website
Today, at the forum on Breakthrough Learning in a Digital Age, being hosted by the Sesame Workshop at Google headquarters, we are announcing the launch of a major new research initiative in digital media and learning (DML) and its associated website. Based at the University of California Humanities Research Institute in Irvine, California, the Digital Media and Learning Research Hub is generously supported by the MacArthur Foundation's Digital Media and Learning Initiative. The Research Hub, for which I serve as Executive Director and Mimi Ito the Research Director, intersects work promoting and networking collaborative efforts to


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Last weekend (and in not the one that just ended, but the one before), I was in Fort Worth for TCU Homecoming. The weather was gorgeous and I had a blast! My stomach hated any and all beer I attempted to drink, so tailgating for the game was a bit impeded, but fun nonetheless! I had a hotdog and enjoyed the new stadium and watched one of the BEST games of my life (even though we lost... wah wah). Seriously, TRIPLE overtime. It was CRAZY.
|Welcome to the prettiest stadium in all of college football.
Wednesday, I had lab work done and found out I'm more anemic now than I was six weeks ago even though I've been taking iron three times a week. Who does that? Apparently I do. Then I went a voted! It was so exciting voting for President in person! (I voted absentee four years ago... I think I had a test on election day.)
|Don't pay for parking, you're voting! Yay!
Thursday night I got to stalk one of my campers who was in town for a tennis tournament. It was so nice to see her! She's a crazy one. Friday morning I made Tweety cookies for her, a Camp Mystic camper/counselor favorite. I'd LOVE to share the recipe, but it's a secret! But, it sure is delish.
|Best. Cookies. Ever.
Friday night we got Halloween-y! I went over to Kendall and Michael's and we carved pumpkins! This was my third solo pumpkin and I have to say it's probably my favorite.
|Kitty and a pumpkin... on a pumpkin!
Then Saturday, I watched a very upsetting football game and made some AWESOME Halloween cupcakes! I found a picture on Pinterest and made them and they were SO cute and definitely the hit of the party!
|"Vampire Bites"
Then I went to Kendall and Michael's for the big Halloween party! This year I was way late in finding a Halloween costume so I googled "last minute Halloween costumes" and decided to be Rosie the Riveter! So super easy and so super cute!
|I'm so cute.
Have you carved pumpkins yet? What did you carve? What are you dressing up as/what did you dress up as this year? Happy Hallo-week!


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Up tonight, the scary part of refactoring the ICE Code Editor into parts: getting the original, full-screen editor working again. I already have the
ICE.Editor class to the point that it supports
ICE.Embedded instances—in-page versions of the editor for use in blog posts. Tonight, I need to get started on breaking the rest out into
ICE.Full and
ICE.Store to support a full-screen editor that can persist projects in local storage.
This is a multi-day undertaking, but I need to start somewhere. And that somewhere is the HTML that will include the necessary scripts:
<!DOCTYPE html> <html> <head> <title>code editor</title> <meta charset="utf-8"> <link rel="stylesheet" href="editor.css"> <script src="js/ace/ace.js" type="text/javascript" charset="utf-8"></script> <script src="js/ace/keybinding-emacs.js"></script> <script src="js/rawinflate.js"></script> <script src="js/rawdeflate.js"></script> <script src="js/appcache.js"></script> <script src="js/ice-store.js"></script> <script src="js/ice-editor.js"></script> <script src="js/ice-full.js"></script> </head> <body></body> <script> ICE.attachFull(); </script> </html>That is a crazy amount of
<script> tags, all of which are required to make this thing work. I will have to combine and minify that later. For now, I focus on the API entry point,
ICE.attachFull(), which serves as the counterpoint to the
ICE.attachEmbedded(). In there, I pull in much of the old initialization code and also create new instances of the local data store and editor classes:
function attachFull() { var el = createElements(); store = new ICE.Store(); editor = new ICE.Editor(el); editor.setContent(store.current); codeToolbar(); }Much of the subsequent effort involves replacing direct local storage access with calls to the
ICE.Store API and pulling in bits and pieces of code on-demand. I eventually get it to the point that the code editor seems to kick in (I see line 1 shown), but then crashes with:
Uncaught TypeError: Object #<Object> has no method 'match' ace.js:7467 $detectNewLine ace.js:7467 insert ace.js:7540 setValue ace.js:7447 setValue ace.js:1752 Editor.setContent ice-editor.js:36 attachFull ice-full.js:457 (anonymous function) localhost/:18After a moment's freak-out, I realize that this is due to the content that I am now passing to the
setContent() method of the
ICE.Editor. Specifically, I am not supplying code, I am supplying a local storage record. The fix is easy enough—I use the code property of the local storage record:
function attachFull() { var el = createElements(); store = new ICE.Store(); editor = new ICE.Editor(el); editor.setContent(store.current.code); codeToolbar(); }Just like that, I have a full-screen ICE Code Editor, now coming from a separate module:
There is still much to be done. I very much doubt those buttons still work. But all, in all, this is a promising start to breaking the full screen version of the ICE Code Editor out into a single responsible class.
Day #716


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To Crewe Hall, Cheshire, for an overnight stay, courtesy of my elder sister and her family. Not that they live in this extraordinary mid-Victorian pile, of course; we were there for bed and breakfast on our way north to Cumbria.
This is an ornate interior, with every surface heavily encrusted with pattern and texture - a wonderful backdrop for weddings and big events.
A library, a Long Gallery, and its own chapel, not to mention an extensive conference centre built in the stable quarter.
Before we left home, a surprise. My younger sister is given to sending unusual vouchers as gifts, so I thought to return the compliment, ordering a selection of sausages and ham from a company called Dukeshill, to be delivered to her address on Monday, 19th December. All morning I imagined her surprise on receiving the parcel. Would she be able to fit it all into her freezer? Would that much sausage be a welcome addition to their diet?
Just after lunch there was knock on our door: a delivery man with a familiar looking box. Somehow the parcel had come to us, not to my sister, who lives in another part of the country. In sorting out this problem, the company very generously sent another box to my sister, leaving us to wonder whether we have room in our freezer for all that sausage. Not often that you get to give your sausage and eat it.
In Cumbria, a combination of drizzle and high winds. We did some of our regular walks under irregular conditions. Sale Fell, above Bassenthwaite, in very high winds. We thought it best to walk round the end of the fell and through the woodland, rather than going to the summit of even this modest fell.
Here, my husband at the site of the old Wythop church, a sheltered spot where we often eat our sandwiches.
And, finally another home - this time a deserted farmhouse, just beginning to lose its windows. We often speculate as to which of a combination of factors - access roads, mains services, ownership - proved crucial to its abandonment.


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Ambos NBGO assists listed NIBE Industrier AB with acquisition of the Belgian branch of British Enertech Group
Ambos NBGO has assisted the Swedish law firm Delphi and the listed company NIBE with the acquisition of Enertech Belgium which is part of the British Enertech Group. The Belgian acquisition forms part of an international transaction in six European countries in which NIBE has acquired several branches. The acquired branches employ approximately 460 people and represent an aggregate sales amount of 86 million euro with an associated operating margin of 4.8% in 2015.
The Swedish NIBE is one of the European market leaders in heat pumps and water heaters. NIBE operates in Europe, North America and Asia and has been listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange since 1997.
More information on these transaction can be found on the NIBE's website.
Christina Trappeniers and Samuel Darcheville constituted the deal team for this transaction.
Published in: Ambos news


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Welcome to my Blog. I am an artist and have many creative interests. I enjoy writing and painting but my favorite is designing and making primitive dolls
I make and sell my handmade dolls and pattern creations on ebay under seller ID. Dumplinragamuffin.
e-mail me: email@example.com
Wow, these are amazing! you are so talented! Love you!! Hope you're staying warm!
Post a Comment


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Where do I even begin to talk about this experience. I have been on White House tours and family events from When I was young and my father worked for the Clinton administration. He used to take my mother to galas and cocktail parties but I had never gotten to go. So this year when my father received an invitation for the Christmas party he decided to take me as his date. The Hose is beautiful itself, but add Christmas decorations and it is breathtaking. A fresh coate of snow had fallen during the day so the walk through the grounds to get through the main entrance was spectacular.
As you walk in the front entrance your are greeted by Marine Corps Guards every step of the way, and their gallant uniforms are just as much decoration as the Christmas trees. My second thought always when walking through the white house is how accurate the Westing Wing TV Series got it! After coat check you walk up a large white marble staircase and enter the main hall. from the main hall you can walk through the 2 ballrooms and interior rooms of the west wing. The food was spectacular and the decorations incredible. The funnest part may have been sitting on the beautiful furniture. Just think of all the other influential butts that have sat there before! Haha!
Ok now for the pictures! It was difficult taking some cause there were many people in attendance, but when certain rooms thinned out I snapped some good shots:)
This is the Green Room, and guess what all the decorations are made of? Old book pages, newspaper and magazines, sprayed gold and glittered!
Who would have thought that they would have been so crafty! Trying not too look like a crazy person, I looked to see how it was all put together and here is what I came up with.
This tree is all book pages. and it is at least 7 feet tall and there were 2 of them. There were also 2 large rolled paper wreaths hanging above them.
These are trees made of old magazines with the pages folded down and sprayed gold.
This tree was made of paper squares.
This is in the Hallway and its a big Bo with little paper mache dogs and cats all around him.
This is the main tree ch=elebrating the harvest and heartland of America. It looks like a state fair tree with large prize ribbons and other ornaments. Each ornament represents all the great food items we enjoy here in our Country.
Here you can see the hand sewn crab, and on the ribbon there are potatoes.
These ornaments are a salmon and on the ribbon there are bananas.
This is my favorite room. It's the most Dramatic and the decor was red, fuchsia, and purple. So Decadent!
That's me sitting on the red brushed silk setee!
This is my second favorite room with all the first wives portraits. And of course my fav Jackie O.
Ladybird Johnson
the food in the ballroom, I took this one towards the end of the night while people were getting their photos done, so you get a pretty good view.
Christmas trees in the ballroom flanking Lincoln's Portrait.
Main Hall
Arent those branch urns in the main hall just gorgeous? I am obsessed with them, there were 4 2 flanking each side.
Marine Corps Band
And last but not least, the spectacular nativity scene. each character was about a foot or so tall.
I hope you enjoyed these pictures! I love to here feedback and I can't wait to replicate some of these ideas in my Christmas decor next year!
We just got our picture in the mail!!!


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Banks' so-called "dark pool" trading venues are all the rage these days.
The media jumped when dark pools were cited in federal authorities' and investor class action complaints against SAC Capital and its executives. The focus was on how the anonymity associated with dark pools, and the levels of secrecy they provide, allowed SAC and/or its members to avoid detection and potential losses on its sale of stock. (See also Gazing into 'dark pools,' the tool that enables anonymous insider trading)
One quote from a complaint reads:
"We executed a sale of over 10.5 million ELN for [various portfolios at CR Intrinsic and SAC LP] at an avg price of 34.21. This was executed quietly and efficiently over a 4 day period through algos and darkpools and booked into two firm accounts that have very limited viewing access."
Next Goldies brought its dark pool, Sigma X, to the fore. Having discovered pricing errors within the opaque pool, Goldman reportedly decided to send refund checks to customers to compensate them for the mistakes.
Michael Lewis didn't make matters any easier for Goldman or dark pools, giving them a hard time in his new book, Flash Boys. Among other things, he casts doubt on whether investors got "best execution" through the dark pools:
"A broker was expected to find the best possible price in the market for his customer. The Goldman Sachs dark pool—to take one example—was less than 2 percent of the entire market. So why did nearly 50 percent of the customer orders routed into Goldman's dark pool end up being executed inside that pool—rather than out in the wider market."
That quote, alone, might not be altogether convincing: it's not clear whether he's looking at scenarios in which Goldman's clients have requested execution through the Sigma X, or whether Goldman's clients, requesting best execution, were oddly quite regularly executed through Sigma X, despite the potential for sub-optimal execution through that platform. It's probably fair to say that those requesting execution through the dark pool would agree that they were foregoing "best execution" in the market - which is something one typically foregoes even with "hidden" orders submitted to an (open) exchange.
But now Goldies is back in the spotlight. According to today's WSJ, they're considering shutting down their dark pool.
But why?
According to the Journal article, Goldman executives are weighing the benefits of the revenues it produces, against the burdens dealing with trading glitches and negative press. Some burdens those must be, given Sigma X is purportedly one of the largest bank dark pools, and is likely producing significant flow.
Perhaps there's another theory...
Consider these stories:
In January 2014 Barclays decided to shut down its retail / margin Foreign Exchange business, Barclays Margin FX; in February, NY regulator Lawsky opened a currency markets probe.
In January 2014 Deutsche Bank AG (DBK) announced that it will withdraw from participating in setting gold and silver benchmarks in London; in March, the CFTC announced that it is looking at issues including whether the setting of prices for gold—and the smaller silver market—is transparent.
In July 2013, the CFTC put metals warehouses on notice of a possible probe. By November 2013 Goldman was resuming talks to sell its metals warehouses and seeking a buyer for its uranium trading unit; and by March 2014 we had various notices of JP Morgan's intent to sell its physical commodities divisions.
Probe and Sale
Probe and Sale
We could go on and on, but ultimately these are all anecdotal and we aren't wanting or looking to prove statistical significance at this stage. We're also not too concerned about what comes first: the probe or the sale. There's certainly no one-to-one mapping. Not every regulatory probe is followed by a sale, or vice-versa. We're only wondering if there's a pattern. And if there's a pattern, could there be an explanation as to why there's a pattern?
Here's one theory. (We welcome yours.) Might it be that, pending a likely or imminent (and embarrassing or expensive) enforcement action, banks may take preemptive action in selling "problematic" divisions ... to enable the negotiation of a more lenient settlement as they're (now) less likely to be repeat offenders of whatever activity was the subject of the probe?
Here's one theory. (We welcome yours.) Might it be that, pending a likely or imminent (and embarrassing or expensive) enforcement action, banks may take preemptive action in selling "problematic" divisions ... to enable the negotiation of a more lenient settlement as they're (now) less likely to be repeat offenders of whatever activity was the subject of the probe?
In other words, is a dark pool probe pending?


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The media market is huge, thus the need for a media review market.
This is our little contribution to that field.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Scott Matthews - What the Night Delivers (2011)
1. Myself Again
2. Obsession Never Sleeps
3. Ballerina Lake
4. Bad Apple
5. So Long, My Moonlight
6. Head first into Paradise
7. Walking Home in the Rain
8. Echoes of the Lonely
9. The Man who had Everything
10. Piano Song
well this is another pleasant surprise. It drops on September 5th. 2009's Elsewhere I found to be rather refreshing, and good, but not really an exact repeat of his highly Jeff Buckley-like debut album Passing Stranger.
Could be another sleeper for 2011. We'll see.
Posted by AllMediaReviewsBlog at 5:58 AM
Labels: Elsewhere , Passing Stranger , Scott Matthews , What the Night Delivers


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Hi, Everyone. I haven't blogged in sooo long. I just saw Brenda's newest giveaway that ends June 15th.
In addition to the Wooly Sheep, she's also giving away 2 sheep tucks and 2 printed sheep pillow tucks.
Click The Rusty Thimble to enter by June 15th.
It's been really raining for days here, and will continue for a few more days. You should see the shrubs and flowers!
That's the great part about rain.
I finally stopped going for injections. I'm supposed to be enjoying being pain free. I am for the most part. They did get rid of the leg pain which is excruciating. I can deal with the rest!
The mister is almost done with his custom job. By the end of June he should be able to start on our house. I've been making a list for about a year so he doesn't really know what's in store for him! His boy is spending a good deal of the summer with us like he usually does, so he's going to be a big help with the heavy lifting like the drywall sheets.
We've been watching a lot of British crime shows on Netflix. They've got some AWESOME shows over there. Gosh, I love Netflix.
I have a bowl arrangement of white peony flowers from my peony bush and they look like big pouf balls. The fragrance is so wonderful, I didn't know they were scented the first year I lived here. I'm glad I found out, because they're wonderful sitting right next to me while I write or watch t.v. Uhmmm...
My sister's birthday came and went and no Izannah Walker doll. I had to resort to sending conventional gifts like a matching purse and slingback shoes. She loves them, but I wish I had made the doll in time. They are so involved, anyone who's made one or attempted one knows that. I can't get the head just right; it's still too big for the body. So, I start over tomorrow.
She sent me antique fabric that she bought at a doll show somewhere so little Izzy's clothes are going to be fabulous.
I really need to go to the eye doctor. I can't see the little holes in the linen when I cross stitch. Mister's been after me to go for two years. So I really need to make an appointment.
Mom's doing very well. She turned 87 in February. Gosh, I'm getting old. Every time my sister has a birthday, I get a reminder that she's 10 years older than me, so I realize that my next birthday in 4 months is gonna be my 57th. Oh, well...
Handsome can't find his wallet, so I'm going to help him now.
He needs to go to CVS.
You all take care and enjoy your week.
Hi, Primmies... I stitch reproduction antique samplers and dolls. I also have lots of great artists and their sites featured as well as tutorials and some recipes for you to enjoy. Eventually we will have our own items for sale. Until then I hope you will enjoy the content, please leave a comment on any post you wish to.
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John Forbes (1568 – 1634) was born in Corse Castle he graduated from St Andrew's University in 1583. He was the moderator of the Aberdeen assembly which met in defiance of the king. For this he was imprisioned. He was then exiled and in 1608 became the pastor of an English-speaking congregation of the Merchant Adsventurers in Middelburg. He then pastored a church in Delft.
In his book Certain Records touching the Estate of the Kirk in 1605 and 1606 he described the decay of reformed polity in Scotland.
He was the brother of Patrick an Episcopal who became the bishop of Aberdeen.
Saturday, 29 March 2014
British Calvinists: John Forbes (1568 – 1634)
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The women's golf squad, with a three-stroke deficit entering the day, came charging back to win the Ron Moore Women's Intercollegiate on Sunday at The Highlands Ranch Golf Club. Each day, different Pioneers took turns burning up the course. This win was all the more meaningful because the tournament was named after Ron Moore, who's family gifted the Highlands Ranch Golf Club to DU. This gift was the second largest gift to athletics in University history.
A specal shoutout to Jessica Cardy who shot a 66 on Friday to set the tone for the rest of the weekend. (No....not a typo - a 66)
Congratulations to Coach Lindsay Kuhle and her team from LetsGoDU


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Tuesday, April 27, 2010
PPM23 TOTAL ABUSE "Mut" LP. LP COMES WITH ZINE.
DESCRIPTION - On the new LP titled "Mutt" recorded between May 2008 to October 2009 for
PPM, Total Abuse finally cement a marriage between their obsession with early UK power electronics, and early eighties american hardcore. Since their humble beginnings they have been hinting at the sound, and on Mutt they deliver full force. Heavy feedback infused hardcore soundscapes, not for the weary.
Only available on Vinyl and Digital, the LP comes with printed inner 12" sleeve and a 24 page zine, and free download.
get direct from PPM:
100 white (mailorder only) 900 black
Tell me some new things about the new album.
mutt is the strongest total abuse material yet. it took us almost 3 years
to make it and i think it shows. we took our time. it is a record
about being a slave to your fantasy. about being imprisoned by desire
and need. about the symbiosis pervert and pornography. about
the frustration in realizing you are one of the bad people in the
world. desire rules all. it is not good. i do not embrace this fact.
I am sure you've been asked before, but How much does Peter Sotos'
work influence the band? Are you all just fans of his/get a band name,
or does his work impact you all more?
I can't speak for the rest of the band but , Sotos is one of my
favorite writers bar none. His work and ideas have been very
influential to some of the concepts and lyrics behind total abuse.
The name of the band refers to a collection of the earliest sotos
writings. Some of his most base and ugly work. I think it matched
well. But I must say i think people tend to only dabble in those early
writings due to their availability on the internet and never get a
chance to read his more complex and (I think) stronger material. I
recommend everyone getting their hands on a copy of "selfish, little:
the annotated lesley anne downey" or "predicate" to start off with.
Sotos is just an incredible writer.
Do you like power?
Do you want power?
If you had all power what would you do with it?
I can't answer that because it will never happen
How can I cleanse you?
You can't. I wish you could.
Why does someone from revhq hate you?
Because some of the members (including myself) have a big mouth. We
tend to talk too much about too many touchy things. We should probably
shut up.
Tell me something about Austin, that is where you are from right?
Austin is a lazy town. Everyone talks about big plans and schemes but
don't accomplish much. It's too easy to get by doing nothing. So much
potential goes to waste. I gotta get out.
Were you in a band when you were younger and did your father drive you
on tours? (I heard someone say that once.) Tell me about how that was
if you are the correct band.
Ryan, Duncan and I (Rusty) were in the snobs. We released two 7"s on
my war records (RIP). Dave (the singer)'s dad drove the band to posi
numbers 02.
Are you a bad man?
Sometimes. I have bad things inside my heart i think. Bad thoughts.
Please tell me something humiliating. (either about yourself or someone else).
people view me as a real life sex pig. I look like a walking slob. I
am aware of how disgusting i look. Things will never change. i wish
they would.
What are some of your most listened to records right now?
the dead c - harsh 70s reality 2xLP
swans - public castration is a good idea 2xLP
judee sill - judee sill LP (i do not own the actual copy of this)
sonic youth - evol LP
trop tard - ils etaient 9 dans l'obscurité LP (i do not own the actual
copy of this)
vile gash - s/t EP
virgin spring - absolute decline cs
rene hell - 18:54 torture hour cs
martial canterel - cruelty reigns through ages cs
nagamatzu - sacred islands of the mad cs (i do not own the actual copy of this)
Explain sex pig please. I like that one a whole lot.
the song is about a specific time in the fall of 2006. the song is about living in your house and never leaving. It is about watching pornography online and accepting the fact that you really are
a disgusting creep. you are not normal. you are hiding strange secrets
and desires that are sadly very very real.
Any upcoming tour plans?
we are touring through europe this summer.
I am pretty stupid, ugly, untalented, my thoughts are worthless and so
are my everyday motions. Do you think I have a place I can go to?
Remember, I do not bring anything to the table. Is that ok with you?
i don't think your thoughts are worthless. this is the best total
abuse interview we have ever been given. the questions are creative
and interesting. actually worthwhile. please keep doing the things you
are doing. stay afloat.
What turns you on?
too personal. can't answer. i'm sorry.
What was the most forgettable worthless experience had as a band?
playing with all kinds of horrific jocks disguised as punks like seasick.
What makes you nervous?
women and men talking about me
Is it weird for people to tell you they like your band a lot?
no. we create it so that others can enjoy it. or we hope they do. we
appreciate any positive and negative comments.
Do you like your own work?
yes. i am the biggest fan of total abuse. i put all of myself and my
ideas into it. maybe this is foolish but i hope not. the new album
mutt i feel is total abuse's strongest moment so far. i urge everyone
to try and purchase a physical copy of mutt as the art and writings
inside are needed to fully understand all the concepts within the
Do you have a constant idea or theme you work with (your artwork/movie included)
i think i am constantly struggling with what is in my mind. how much
it scares me... or how much i wish it to be reality. the idea that there
is a line where something is in your mind and then you make it real. how
long does it take for the line to be crossed? what does it take? how
do we try and hide those things inside our minds? how strong is
denial? what is pornography and what isn't? fantasy is all we have.
our struggle is and always has been trying to make that fantasy as
real as possible.
Is there a big connection to your art and music?
in some regards yes. total abuse and breathing problem (my solo
electronics project) share similar concepts. they are a part of of the
overarching theme within much of my work.
thurible is a different entity. that film is more about the importance
of ritual in our lives. the importance of finding meaning in harsh
reality. finding our own religion when we know god can't exist.
certain aspects of the breathing problem magazine series are focused on taking specific found images and putting them in an ambiguous context...then seeing what kind of response comes out of the viewer. how they personally attach their own meaning.
Who is your favorite artist?
terrence malick, werner herzog, peter sotos, alain robbe grillet,
harmony korine, dennis cooper, mikaylah bowman, gaspar noe, david lynch, fredrick
wiseman...more more
Can you give me some girl advice please?
trust and respect women. they create life. they are
beautiful. they are better.
How old are you?
Who are you addressing in your songs? Do they hear it?
i am addressing myself and trying to show myself the light. to let
myself see how i am shielding myself from the truth. then hoping
others see that truth as well. many of us men are perverts and
reptiles. we must understand this fact. that does not mean we can
change it. i don't know where to go from there...
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Now, I know that I've touched on the topic of perfectionism before but I really think it deserves its own moment in the spotlight. No matter how you spell it, perfectionism is a curse. Yes, for some of us it has accompanied career success. It has meant thorough preparation and research, meticulous attention to detail, lengthy planning, and near-flawless execution.
But, perfectionism comes at a high price. For one thing, it often takes away from enjoying what we're doing. We become so fixated on the end product and whether we're meeting our own high, sometimes unrealistic, standards that we fail to experience the task itself.
Also, perfectionism means never having room to make mistakes. And when we do make mistakes, it means berating ourselves for being the flawed human beings that we truly are. How can we teach our children that it's okay to mess up sometimes, that we don't expect them to get everything right the first time, that the process of learning is just as important as the end product, if we don't live that way ourselves?
Sometimes perfectionism makes it impossible for us to move forward. We get stuck on making something perfect, doing something "just so," or making the ultimate "right" decision. We spend so much time researching and analyzing that we become paralyzed and miss opportunities or our decision ends up being by default.
Perfectionism is often maintained by comparison and misperception. No one is perfect, despite how they may appear. Even the seemingly perfect Mom who appears to get her kids places unhurriedly and on time, who makes all of the treats she sends in to school, and who is a lifetime member of the PTO makes mistakes and wishes at times that she could be more efficient, more creative, more empathic.
Escaping from the clutches of perfectionism requires viewing our faults, our errors, and our foibles in proper perspective. Most of the time our mistakes don't have dire consequences for ourselves or for our loved ones. My son's teacher is not going to shun me and he is not going to be branded a trouble-maker just because I misplaced a form that was due the other day.
Letting go of perfectionism means less need for things to be just so, less self-flaggelation, and more self-appreciation. It means doing your best much of the time, and sometimes doing just enough, and realizing that things will still be okay. Most likely, your house won't fall apart and your children won't be irreparably damaged.
Freedom from perfectionism means learning to give yourself a break in a self-caring way and to practice what you preach when you tell your children that "it's okay, nobody's perfect."


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(PRWEB) June 13, 2014
Claude starts off this easy blues guitar lesson by demonstrating the lick so you can hear what it is supposed to sound like. "I think it is easiest if I teach it going backwards," says Johnson. Claude demonstrates how to play the lick as follows: 11th fret of the first string with 4th finger to the 8th fret with first finger, 8th fret of the 2nd string with first finger to the 11th fret with 4th finger to the 11th fret of the first string with 4th finger to the 8th fret with first finger, 10th fret of the 3rd string with 3rd finger and then repeat the first sequence. Next is 8th fret of the 2nd string with first finger the 11th fret with 4th finger, 8th fret of the first string with first finger to the 10th fret with 3rd finger to the 11th fret with 4th finger and then descend all the way back to the 8th fret of the 2nd string. "The note on the 10th fret of the 2nd string is outside of the minor pentatonic scale which gives the lick a modern sound," says Johnson. And finally Johnson ends the lick by repeating the first sequence again. Claude continues by demonstrating some alternate ways to play the lick using other techniques like tapping to customize the lick to your personal tastes. Guitar TABs are available for this easy beginner blues guitar lesson at GuitarControl.com.
Claude Johnson
Claude Johnson, a native of Philadelphia PA, began playing guitar in 1990 after being inspired by players like Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Stevie Ray Vaughn. He is the creator of GuitarControl.com and has helped 1000s of people to learn to play the guitar with his critically acclaimed instructional DVD courses, all available at GuitarControl.com.
About GuitarControl.com
GuitarControl.com is the leader in modern guitar instruction. It's packed with resources including articles, video lessons, and the best videos in the business for the beginner to the advanced guitar student taught by the best instructors out there. Weather you are into the blues, rock, jazz, metal, folk, or anything in between, they have you covered.


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Thursday, December 5, 2013
My blog inspired me to...
While going through cancer and writing my blog, I constantly was told that I should write a book. And I decided to do just that. I know when I was first diagnosed, I spent endless hours searching for that "perfect" book that was going to tell me what to expect from the diagnosis. Although, I never found that- I found comfort in others blogs. I decided that I would write something and although it may not be the "perfect book" - I figured it may just help that one person that was searching for what I was searching for. With that being said...it's published and it is called "yes, I CANcer" - check it out!!!
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Three top actors from Korea, Japan, and the United States joined forces to promote their new film in Japan. Lee Byung-hun (above), Takuya Kimura and Josh Hartnett were on hand in Tokyo on Wednesday for the world premiere of "I Come with the Rain."
The movie was written and directed by the Vietnamese-French filmmaker Tran Anh Hung. It tells the story of a former Los Angeles cop searching throughout Asia for the son of a Chinese billionaire.
Hollywood star Hartnett plays Kline, the police officer. Lee, who recently received good reviews for his role in last year's "The Good, the Bad and the Weird," is Su Dongpo, a Hong Kong gangster. Japan's Kimura, the main man in the Japanese hit drama "Mr.Brain," appears as Shitao, the missing son. The movie opens in Japan on June 6.
Source: http://joongangdaily.joins.com/article/view.asp?aid=2905430


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The Creepy Stalker
Chloe continues to munch, but decides the apple tastes funny and gets up to throw it in the trash.
Maggie bustles around the kitchen gathering up cleaning supplies for the big work session at the Horton cabin. Melanie comes in and acts less than enthusiastic about helping with the chores. Maggie accuses her of trying to back out. "That's not what I'm trying to do," says Melanie, "I actually wonder why you're going out there."
Maggie rolls her eyes, "What are youp to, Melanie? Cut to the chase."
Arianna once again bumps into Brady. They've bumped into each other so many times there is no room for new bruises.
Inside the pub, Rafe rants because Sami keeps asking questions about Emily. Sami thinks it's weird that he's upset about her questions, "I love you and that makes me want to know everything about you and your old girlfriends. Especially the living ones, so I can scratch their eyes out."
Chloe heads for the trash with the apple. Kate turns to Daniel, "Well, it looks like your housewarming gift was a bust." A little reverse psychology goes a long way with Chloe, who's mind doesn't even have a forward gear. She decides the apple is fine and takes another chomp.
Brady and Arianna recover from the near-catastrophe of bumping into each other. "I'm sorry," says Arianna.
"No," says Brady, "I'm sorry. Are you all right?"
"No," says Arianna, "I'm sorry. Are you all right?"
"No," says Brady, "I'm sorry. Are you all right?"
"No," says Arianna, "I'm sorry. Are you all right?"
"No," says Brady, "I'm sorry. Are you all right?"
"No," says Arianna, "I'm sorry. Are you all right?"
You think I'm kidding, don't you?
Sami and Rafe argue about Emily. Rafe yells, "If you're gonna revert to your old habits, then this isn't gonna work, OK? We're done." We should be so lucky.
Chloe continues to munch on the poisoned apple. Allie runs back Kate decides they should hit the Java Café and talk about the show. Daniel backs out. Then Chloe backs out. Kate gets huffy and disappointed, "Guys, I thought your friendship was over."
Maggie guesses Melanie wants to be alone with Nathan. Melanie says she doesn't even want him there. She says she wants to play matchmaker with two friends. She stops and considers what she just said, "Imagine that... I have friends."
Maggie doesn't even hear the last part. The instant she heard the word "matchmaker" her radar antennae popped up so strong her kitchen will now need a ceiling repair, "Tell me, though, Melanie, what's in it for you?"
Arianna turns to leave, but hesitates, "There is something I'd like to ask you. Is there any way you can talk to Sami? Convince her to stop seeing my brother?"
"I get it," says Arianna, "You're a generous person and I'm just a big downer."
"I'm glad we finally agree on something," says Brady.
Apparently, Rafe has picked up Sami's bickering abilities and they go at it as equals.
Kate sits in the Java Café with Daniel and Chloe. They have, of course, dumped poor Allie. Kate decides they should do a segment about Chloe and Daniel on the show, "I think the audience should know the truth about you."
A gal in the audience stands up and shouts, "We know ALL about them. Move this plot along before the kid they haven't had yet gets into college!"
Scotty screams, "Cap'n! I canno' change the laws of physics!"
"I don't care what it takes," says Kirk, "DO IT NOW!"
Scotty pushes the levers. Dematerialization occurs... On the surface of the planet, Kirk looks around, but doesn't see anyone, "Where is he, Scotty?"
"I told ya so," bellows Scotty, "Instead of transporting him to Aldebaran II in 2614, we've sent him to earth in 2009. He's in some place called the Java Café."
Kate, Daniel and Chloe all about jump out of their socks when Lucas appears out of nowhere, "You're going to tell the audience WHAT truth about Chloe and Daniel?"
Melanie says she wants to prove to Maggie she's on the level, "I know I'm not a saint but I'm really trying."
"You are right about that," says Maggie, "You're definitely not a saint and you're very trying. I'd say you are a work in progress."
Melanie considers that a badge of honor. "I'm a work in progress," she squeals, "Actually, I think I should come clean. I'm doing this because if I set them up and it works then maybe I'll find someone who will love me for who I am." Maggie and Melanie hug as they pass out the barf bags in the audience.
Brady chases Arianna. He says he is worried about her.
Oh, God... more Sami and Rafe. Use the FF button on your remote. Sami gets frustrated and walks out right behind 95% of the viewing public.
Kate says the deal is they're going to do a leukemia segment on Chloe and Daniel, and how Chloe then turned around and saved Kate. Loserclueless says he likes the angle. Kate checks the recording device in her purse to make sure she's getting all the dialogue and thinks, "I'd better make sure this equipment is working because I'm the only person anywhere who would care enough to record this crap." Suddenly Chloe gets sick. Kate smirks.
Arianna accuses Brady of stalking. He starts to leave and then she accuses him of abandoning her. Brady can't win, "Arianna, you seem tense, wired, high strung..."
"I'm sorry," says Arianna, "We can't all be as laid back as you."
"Relax and let things roll off your back," says Brady, "I like what I see in you. I thank that person is cool and interesting."
Arianna softens, "I appreciate what you're trying to do... aside from the creepy stalker thing."
Sami barges into her apartment calling for Will. Rafe chases. Sami says there is nothing to talk or fight about, "because we're done." Rafe says he was angry and overreacted. He wants to work through their issues because he loves her.
"You don't even know me," screams Sami, "I talked to Arianna about Emily because that's the kind of person I am. I thought you were good for me. I thought we were... so just go. I'm not reverting. This is who I am... A child in a woman's body with an IQ that matches room temperature. If you can't handle that then we don't have a future.
Out in the audience the Ejamis and Lumis cheer uncontrollably.
Chloe continues to turn as green as her Granny Smith apple. Dr. Daniel goes for aspirin. Dr. Lucas tells Chloe she looks pale. Dr. Kate tells her she has clammy hands. Chloe insists she is fine. She wants people to stop hovering.
Arianna says she's not ready for a relationship. "That's OK," says Brady, "Casual sex would be fine with me. The thing is, people in this town seem to pounce on singles. If they see two people talking who hardly know each other they will issue a couple alert." Arianna says she prefers being alone. So does Brady. They agree to just be acquaintances. They go their separate ways, but both look back several times.
"I love you, too," says Sami, "I love you so much." That's all it takes: Clear the decks for make up...
Chloe continues to insist she's fine. Ali comes up. Now that really makes Chloe sick. Lucas carts Allie off. Chris calls Kate, who rants about color copies and barks orders. Kate hangs up and decides she has to go.
Chloe asks, "How's that for an obnoxious and demanding boss?" Daniel offers to drive her home. Chloe resists.
Brady comes into the pub and finds Melanie. She has summoned him to con him into working on the cabin. Brady asks, "Why do I feel like you're Tom Sawyer getting me to paint the fence?"
Melanie wrinkles her brow, "Huh? Wha... Who?"
"I forgot," says Brady, "The only book you've read all the way through is the 'Lets Go Look And See' Barney book. So, I guess you want me to do all the work at the cabin."
Melanie says that's not true, "I'll be working... on my tan."
Brady agrees to go, "I could use the distraction."
Back at Sami's place, clothes fly... then Sami and Rafe do something really kinky... they head for the bedroom instead of the couch.
Chloe turns green. She gets woozy when she tries to stand and Daniel insists on taking her home.
Kate plays with her new recording. She works with the dialogue until she has Chloe saying something she has never said, "Daniel... don't!"
Brady arrives at Maggie's place. They sit and talk about going to the 12-step meeting. Brady just isn't into the conversation, "I'm distracted. I have a lot on my mind."
"Then you should probably stand up," says Maggie.
"I can't stop thinking about this woman," he says.
Maggie can't believe her luck, "Let me get my notebook."
Arianna meets Melanie in the Java Café and Melanie asks her to help clean the cabin.
Rafe and Sami rest after their ordeal. Rafe whispers, "I would never do anything to hurt you."
Kate packs things up. Lucas joins her. It's hard to tell but it looks like they are on the Kiriakis terrace. Lucas is concerned because he called Chloe and she didn't call back. Kate is proud of him for being a caring husband.
Lucas disagrees, "You're not proud of me. You think I'm whipped. You seem to be disgusted with Chloe lately. You gave her a job but it's a job she doesn't want."
Kate thinks she rescued Chloe and says her offer for a lead in the opera Vancouver was probably just an audition. She insists she has respect for Chloe, "So are we OK?"
Lucas looks at the calendar on his watch, "I guess. I'm not scheduled to disown you for another week."
Daniel and Chloe arrive at her front door. Chloe gets dizzy, but continues to insist she's fine. "I'm not so sure," says Daniel, "I think we should call a doc..."
Chloe faints and falls right into Daniel's arms.
Maggie wonders who the mystery woman is. Brady is reluctant to tell. Maggie grills him. All of a sudden I'm in junior high all over again.
Maggie advises Brady to take his time with this woman. Brady agrees,, "I'll make it a point to keep my distance."
Melanie puts the sales job on. Arianna agrees to help at the cabin.
Sami walks out into the living room. Rafe follows and they pick up the clothes strewn all over the room. If the show weren't on such a tight budget, Will would bust in right now. "I'm hungry," says Rafe.
Sami asks, "Is that your way of asking for dinner?"
"Are you cooking," asks Rafe, "I couldn't handle burned grilled cheese."
"OK," says Sami, "We'll order out. My treat."
"In that case," says Rafe, "Let's get lobster." They decide on Chinese. Rafe goes for a shower while Sami calls to place the order.
She rummages through her purse and discovers she's broke (What a shock – single mom, unemployed with three kids, that she knows of, shacking up with a rookie construction worker who works the night shift. Broke would be my guess.). She decides since Rafe forgot to pay for it, she'll just take the money. She gets into Rafe's wallet and whad'ya know, finds Emily's memorial card, apparently from her funeral – laminated no less. Sami reads, "Emily Hudson... September 15, 1978 – March 28, 2007." Sami stares.
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text: Sometimes its not good to shelve silence for words, wrapped silence is a gift that breaks a promise you made to yourself. But often out of a boredom or a desperation you want to hear your own word as an echo, to part the air of noise that hangs lazily like the pollution in hazy cities. Before you begin to speak, you discern each noise on its merit and place it out of a memory; memory has a small place for what happens everyday. It merely archives those unknown to you, for what you knew you go searching in the shelves and you find it lost. You want to scream and recover the day, but it distances itself like a hurt lover. But slowly with a temptation of a child you partner the voices that surround you, the tap on the keyboard, the eerie noise of the lamp and the slow whirring of the fan, you see the spider crawling but register no sound. Here is the time you want to put on a tune that you wanted to hum, but no tune comes to mind, none that will save you from speaking. Fallen, defeated, and tired you put a hand on your lips, drink a sip from the cup, curl up your nose to see if it can come to the rescue, take the finger away from the typing board and caress the lips to silence them. Here comes the scream....then the silence pervades.


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"The life of a high-fashion model appears glamorous and sexy, but as every new model quickly learns, behind the beautiful facade is a world of insecurity and cutthroat competition. Two teenage models who are about to discover this world for themselves are Raina Marinelli, a stunning beauty with a secret past, and Chris Andrews, a strikingly handsome Iowa farm boy.
When Raina makes an unforgettable impression at a show introducing the new line from designer Zac Posen, she steals the spotlight from her friend Sonja Stone. While Raina and Sonja live at the top of the fashion food chain, Chris is starting at the bottom, having just been discovered by an agent at the Covet Modeling Agency." -- iTunes Store
Download for Free!
Episode Summary
Raina Mayer is a stunning beauty with a secret past who makes an unforgettable impression while strutting down the runway in a Zac Posen gown during New York Fashion Week, and effectively steals the spotlight away from fellow model Sonja Stone.
the fine print: Downloads posted on the Free iTunes Downloads blog are usually free for ~1 week. After that, you'll have to pay for them.
Monday, September 21, 2009
[video] The Beautiful Life - Pilot
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Mommy porn Fifty Shades trilogy, breaks weekly paperback sales record, with all three books selling more than 100,000 copies in seven days.
E L James, a London-based former TV executive, is now the first author
ever to see three of her books sell more than 100,000 printed copies in
just one week. She has also broken the weekly sales record for a
paperback novel after the first book in the trilogy sold 205,130 copies
in seven days, beating the previous record of 141,000.
she looks set to continue smashing sales records: after just two months,
paperback sales for the first novel now total 765,000, a number Dan
Brown's The Da Vinci Code, the bestselling paperback of all time, took over six months to reach.
of the Fifty Shades series have been nothing short of phenomenal and
records are tumbling," said Philip Stone, charts editor of book trade
magazine The Bookseller, predicting that the first novel would have sold
a million copies by the end of June. "Of course this is just sales of
the physical, print edition. It is no doubt breaking ebook download
records too, meaning Fifty Shades of Grey is perhaps the fastest-selling adult novel of all time," added Stone.
The story of the submissive-dominant relationship between a
literature student and a business executive, which started life as fan fiction,
the Fifty Shades trilogy has sold over 2.75m copies in the UK, on top
of sales of 15m copies sold in the US and Canada. The trilogy, the
fastest-selling books of the year in the UK, has already been reprinted
16 times in the UK and publisher Arrow has just signed off on an
additional reprint of 2.75m copies.
Reader reviews are
split between the rapturous and the dismissive: of 1,215 write-ups on
Amazon, around 600 readers gave it five stars, while 330 plumped for
just one. "We particularly enjoyed the way Christian manages most of his
sexual exploits either fully dressed (just a quick unzipping and a coy
fiddle with a 'foil packet') or with his shirt (always white linen)
still on, while Ana bit her lip, and breathed 'Oh my!' for the umpteenth
time. So, really, this is as bad as people say – but for barely more than two quid it managed to provide hours of derisive laughter," wrote one reader.
It matters not though for this book is review proof and the author must be laughing all the way to the Ann Summers store.


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I hail from: I was raised in Olathe, KS. I am a Kansan by nature–stubborn, loyal, independent. I now consider Virginia my home and think I have adapted well to the Southern way of life (although I'll never be a good cook!)
A Seduction at ChristmasMy family: Children, two dogs, a cat, and two horses. They keep me busy, busy, busy.My favorite quote: From Debbie Macomber, "Attitude is the key . . . each one of us is as successful as we make up our minds to be."My most embarrassing moment: I have many. I'm gullible. If you have a good practical joke, I'm the one to play it on.
Desperation and an empty stomach forced Fiona Lachlan to agree to a plan that ended up luring the wickedly notorious Duke of Holburn into trouble. Everything went terribly wrong, and now she has found herself posing as his ward! And while she swore nothing could make her desire a scoundrel, even if he was a duke, she is now drawing ever closer to the one man she cannot have . . .
"Beware of innocence!"
The Duke of Holburn had spent years heeding this warning, and in doing so, managed to avoid the virginal young ladies who had been put in his path. But now his wild ways have gotten him into real danger. There are killers at the door and a temptingly beautiful woman in his arms. He is about to find himself seduced . . . and he isn't quite sure he wants to resist this time.
The Earl Claims His Wife
Preoccupied with fighting Napoleon and making love to his mistress, Brian Ranson has ignored his wife since their wedding. But now that he's become the Earl of Wright, he's ready to fetch his bride back to London. He's shocked to find she's become a bold, beautiful woman, exactly the kind he lusts after . . . and she wants nothing to do with him.
Gillian, Lady Wright, is desperate to seize the love she's been denied . . . but not with her rakish husband! So she makes a bargain—for thirty days she'll be the perfect wife, then he'll set her free. But no matter how she hardens her heart against her damnable earl, her body begs her to surrender
The Marriage Ring
This eliminates Grace MacEachin on all three counts. A hellion of the first order, the alluring, infuriating woman would be nothing more than a passing temptation to an upstanding gentleman like Richard—if it weren't for the fact that she's trying to blackmail his father!
Or, as Grace sees it, trying to get justice—and maybe just the slightest hint of revenge on the family that tore her life asunder when she was just a girl. And as for Lynsted, well, the stuffy, humorless man wouldn't suffer for time spent in company more exciting than that of his company ledgers. Only when Richard gets Grace alone, she discovers he may know a thing or two about excitement after all . . .
His Christmas Pleasure
Anything can happen at Christmas!
When her father threatens to marry Abigail Montross off to a man twice her age (and with thirteen children!), she decides to elope instead with the irresistibly handsome Barón de Vasconia. She knows all about his notorious reputation. He is the most seductive man in all of London, but he's vowed to protect her, so she allows herself to be tempted into his bed, promising to guard her heart at all costs.
Andres believes he's entered into nothing more than a marriage of convenience with a charming and very wealthy young woman. But the days—and nights—Abigail spends in his arms soon reform this rogue. He'll do anything to gain her love—until they each discover the truth about the other and old wounds are revealed.
It's the season of miracles and passion—when love not only awakens the senses but delivers the greatest gift of all . . .
This contest is for US and Canadian Residents only. For a chance to win one of the above books, comment, follow this blog or follow Cathy at Facebook. Please leave your email address. This contest ends August 28th.
Check back here for Part Two for a chance to win a copy of The Seduction of ScandalCathy Maxwell, whose New York Times bestsellers include Bedding the Heiress and In the Bed of a Duke, returns—for the last time—to the people and places of her Scandal and Seduction series with THE SEDUCTION OF SCANDAL, on sale Tuesday, August 30th. Come back to this website on August 30th for a chance to win The Seduction of Scandal.


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hunger had got the better of the Sergeant. Though he had got the right receipt and signed it, he had signed it in the wrong place.
On May 5th I procured a light lorry, packed into it the Camp Commandant, the Sergeant, myself, as many of the forty-nine officers as I could lure, pens, ink and paper, and, by mere weight of numbers, I overcame the Field Cashier. He scribbled his initials everywhere, inquired in notes of what value we would take the money, and undertook, on his personal honour, that upon his very next visit to our headquarters (where the payment should properly be made) the notes should be ours. I asked the Sergeant triumphantly what more he could want. He saluted emphatically at the prospect of receiving, on May 8th, the money wherewith to buy his food for the period March 1st to April 3rd (inclusive).
It was indeed an achievement. Not only were all authorities in existence and duly authorised, but the authorities who had authorised the authorities were themselves authorised in wri


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So, like many Americans I took note of the CARS program, more commonly known as Cash For Clunkers, and was actually persuing a new vehicle under this program. Mine was a complicated deal initially, because I did not want to scrap my beloved Ranger, but instead trade in my beloved's Isuzu Rodeo. That was not going to work for a number of reasons.
Then I decided I would part with my Ranger, see it put to a miserable death and scrapped.
But fate had other plans for me and the Ranger. My dealer and I couldn't meet in the middle on a couple of details and I walked.
Now I've advertised the Ranger for sale, not scrap, but to a "good home" for "market value".
I've checked Kelly Blue Book and NADA sites for the estimated value of my Ranger and have actually gotten a couple of nibbles. I decided to get the Auto Check report from NADA, it's half the price of the CARFAX, in case any prospective buyers don't believe my claim of 57,670 miles on a truck that's 10 years old.
I'd love to sell my Ranger to a good home, then go back to the dealer that didn't want to honor my Xplan pin and see if he's so confident that he's going to get full price for the silver Escape.
In the end, it was an experience, not just for me, but for our nation. Pundits are kicking the can around the block, bitching and moaning about the program and every media is looking for the latest opinion and factoid. I still think that it was a good program, maybe not run very well, but out of the billions of stimulus dollars flushed this year, it's the only program that the average citizen could actually feel a benefit from.
I'm working long hours this week and waiting to hear if this fellow wants to buy the Ranger, but I'll update as I can.
Monday, August 24, 2009
CARS aka Cash For Clunkers was a wild ride, but it's over and I didn't scrap the Ranger
Posted by Big Ford Fan at 8:09 PM
1 comment:
- Gunnar Heinrich said...
Wasn't Ford's Focus one of the top five cars people purchased after junking their clunkers?
Don't remember (or care) if it was the coupe or sedan.
But just think... you could've parlayed your trusty old Ranger with all its 4X4 utility into that small bucket of $#!T.
Food for theory next time you happen to find yourself grumbling at the pump.
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Monday, November 17, 2008
The Respect Jeter's Gangster Mailbag
Who do you think the Yankees should sign after Sabathia? Lowe, Sheets, Burnett, Teixeira or Manny?
-Greg from Colorado
Cashman has expressed the desire to pursue two pitchers this off season and if Sabathia signs he is likely to pursue one of the first three options you mentioned. Sheets I do not think will be offered a deal, but Lowe and Burnett both seem to be on Cashman's radar. The honest truth is that Burnett is fragile, and we are likely stepping into another Pavano. I know some people don't want to believe this, but search deep into your heart of hearts and ask if you really believe Burnett will stay healthy over the course of a 4 year contract, which he is likely to get. Lowe is the best option. That is unless of course Mussina decides he wants to pitch.
Why haven't the Yankees signed Andy Pettitte? Its enraging me to the point that I may do something I don't want to do.
-Thomas from Connecticut
The Yankees have a well documented tradition with Pettitte that begins with them acting like they don't know he's a free agent, and then acting surprised when he signs with another team. But don't worry, this won't happen this time. Pettitte's 1 year salary will likely be determined by how much is given to Sabathia and free agent pitcher X also known as Derek Lowe.
Why did the Yankees trade Rasner to Japan? Isn't this like sending someone to Siberia?
-Jennifer from New York
Its exactly like sending someone to Siberia only they get to play baseball, get treated like stars, and likely get paid more money than they would here in the states. Rasner's 5 something ERA was not going to get him much above the league minimum. In Japan, he's guaranteed $1.2 million with a chance at $3.5 million.
I don't like the Swisher deal.
-Wilson B. from the Dominican Republic.
No one asked you.
Why do you guys always take shots at Carl Pavano? He did his best, and he's been injured. I feel like you guys are just in love Mussina and it blinds you to the love you should have for injured, recovering pitchers like Pavano.
-Parl Cavano from Tampa Bay.
Parl, to be clear, we don't hate Pavano, but you are right when you say that we love Mussina. Mussina's a gamer, and if he would come back, I'd give him whatever contract he wants. I'd prefer Mussina to Lowe or Burnett.
Should the Yankees pursue Manny or not? Is he not the embodiment of everything that opposes the Yankees?
-Jess from New York.
It is my belief that Manny for 2 years would be a great idea for the Yankees. Some may say that he's a selfish whining malcontent who disgraces baseball, but wouldn't you be too if you played for Boston? Oh snap!
Thanks for all the great questions!
8 comments:
- Bucky7588 said...
The signing of Lowe concerns me because I remember when he was in Boston how mentally unstable he was, one base hit and he'd lose the entire game. Unless he's improved on that, I'm not too sure about him.
- November 17, 2008 at 7:48 AM
- http://janeheller.mlblogs.com said...
I love this mailbag. Much funnier than Pete Abe's, although some of the questions he gets are truly ridiculous.
- November 17, 2008 at 9:22 AM
- Fernando Alejandro said...
Yeah, I'm not completely sold on Lowe, but I think he could get us 13 wins in each season he pitches. When healthy Burnett can do better, but I just don't see him being healthy.
- November 17, 2008 at 9:23 AM
- Bucky7588 said...
The more and more I read coming out of Yankee-land, the I'm confronted by the idea that Bronny is content to have a sub-par outfield. Damon, Melky, and Professor X are definitely less than stellar. And if Melky doesn't work out, our best bet is Gardner...really? I mean, REALLY?
- November 17, 2008 at 1:16 PM
- Roberto Alejandro said...
in fairness, Gardner is fast, he can steal a base. a base bucky. He may never draw a walk, or hit the ball out of the infield, but he can steal, and that has to count for something. one time, Gardner struck out, and when the next batter stepped into the batter's box, home plate was gone. they found it in Gardner's locker room. So maybe Melky can't hit more than .220 except when Joe Torre is managing. But we have a great outfield.
- November 17, 2008 at 4:00 PM
- TribeGirl said...
PARL CAVANO???? Thanks alot! I LOL'd at that one and spilled my microwaved Chef-Boy-R-Dee Raviolis down the front of my shirt!!!
As for Lowe being unstable in Boston, ummm....you pointed out Manny was basically unstable, etc. etc. BECAUSE he was in Boston, which is true because he was delightful in Cleveland, so the same reasoning can be applied to Lowe. He'll be fine in NYC - let's sign them both.
- November 17, 2008 at 4:14 PM
Derek Lowe?
No way.
I don't like his face and we already have one Derek.
Give me some other pitchers named Catherine Cristina or Apple Juice, please.
And I'm gonna put some extremely serious voodoo on Cash the Bald and Hank the Moron if they don't resigned Dandy Andy ASAP.
- November 17, 2008 at 8:06 PM
- Fernando Alejandro said...
No love for Lowe I see. I think I like him more than Burnett because I just don't expect Burnett to stay healthy over the course of a multi-year contract be it 2 years or 50.
- November 18, 2008 at 8:17 PM


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Sunday, February 20, 2011
Kirby Larson is Coming!
In just 3 weeks, Kirby Larson will be speaking in our library! WOO HOO! It all started with a post about our Grand Discussions that she commented on (I hope she has brushed up on her state capitals!) and a few emails later, I'm in contact with her people and now she's coming to talk with our students March 8 & 9! I can't wait, for several reasons:
1. I love author visits! It's such a great experience for our kids to meet real live authors, hopefully something some of them will always remember.
2. I love hearing authors read their own words! Kirby will feature her picture book Two Bobbies ane will read it to our younger students. She will highlight the features of non-fiction writing with our older students.
3. Hattie Big Sky was my first "Looking for Newbery" success. Even before this blog, back when I was still in the classroom, it was the first winner I read before the announcements.
4. Our Newbery Club will get to have a special lunch with a real live Newbery winning author. They area already formulating questions and knowing this special group of kids, the conversation will be awesome.
5. I haven't met very many authors, and this will be my first Newbery Winner, but I have always enjoyed the conversations about the state of children's books, what makes a good book, what they are working on, how they get their ideas and just getting to know them a little bit better over a short time.
That's all I have for now, I just wanted to share the news! KIRBY LARSON IS COMING!
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Article source: Bogle Architects
This milestone scheme in the field of pre-school education will deliver a multicultural educational facility for over 2,000 pupils and 400 support staff. Bogle Architects have developed an architectural and educational vision that will provide a rich learning environment for pupils, parents, and staff.
- Architects: Bogle Architects
- Project: Early Years International School in Singapore
- Location: Singapore
- Software used: Bentley AECOsim, Revit
- Client: Cognita Asia
- Design Architects: Bogle Architects
- Local Architects: A61 Architects
- Cost Consultant: WT Partnership
- Engineering: AECOM (UK and Singapore)
- Landscape: Coen Design
- Main Contractor: Lend Lease Singapore
- Early Years: Educationalist Rosie Long
- Education Design: Advisor Professor Gary Moore (Sydney)


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Many of us have worked for companies where we feel unappreciated or not noticed. Here are a bunch of alumni that have used their carefully honed skills to strike out on their own. How many of you have started new businesses or want to start their own small business?
It wasn't until Emily Sugihara quit her job as an assistant designer at J.Crew that she started winning accolades from Mickey Drexler, the company's chief executive officer. After she left the rebounding American retailer in 2006, Sugihara and her mother parlayed a sewing hobby into a business selling affordable nylon and canvas bags. She mailed some free samples to former colleagues; eventually, the clothier decided to stock Baggu's $9 shoppers in a rainbow of colors as part of its In Good Company program, which is devoted to third-party collaborations. When at one sales meeting Drexler heard the bags were doing well at J.Crew stores and online, he called Sugihara to congratulate her. "I got this one very crazy voice mail that I saved for a few years," she recalls. "And we've connected on the phone since then."
Under Drexler's watch, J.Crew has evolved into a chic brand that attracts top design-school graduates who want to create clothes Michelle Obama might wear. It's also become an incubator for fashion entrepreneurs: More than a dozen former employees have used their years—or year, in some cases—there as a launchpad to start their own lines, from Chris Benz, whose luxury togs retail for upward of $2,000, to Tracey Van Voorhis, a former personal assistant of Drexler's whose turban-inspired headbands sell for $29.
What skills did they pick up at J.Crew Academy? Todd Snyder, who was senior vice president for men's design prior to his departure in 2008, says he learned about pricing when the retailer began targeting wealthier, more fashion-conscious customers in the mid-aughts. "We began selling designer quality at a reasonable price, and that changed my thought process as far as wanting to become a designer," he says. Five years ago, after turning 40, Snyder started his own menswear line. Rather than go head-to-head with his former employer, he positioned himself at a higher price point, where there was less competition. "There's some white space between a $450 Thom Browne shirt and a J.Crew one," he says. The line includes $175 oxfords and a $1,295 cotton tuxedo jacket and has been picked up by 60 stores. GQ named Snyder to its list of the Best New Menswear Designers in America in 2012. More recently, Snyder has mimicked J.Crew's strategy of teaming up with heritage American brands by working with Champion (HBI) on a line of high-end sweatpants. The artful clutter of Snyder's boutiques in New York and Tokyo echoes that of J.Crew's men's stores, which the designer had a hand in creating.
Designers at J.Crew aren't cloistered in a studio environment as at some bigger competitors. In the open-plan office, Sugihara says she worked closely with "the production people," learning how to craft plans and sketches that would demonstrate proper execution to factories. She also notes that many of her colleagues, including Benz, displayed entrepreneurial skills that hinted at a future beyond J.Crew.
Sugihara's short stint at the New York-based company gave her the confidence and contacts to scout for suppliers in China, which many small business owners find intimidating. (Producing overseas was crucial to Sugihara's goal of creating a low-cost yet durable alternative to throwaway plastic bags.) "J.Crew isn't always shopping around for new factories," she says. "If you can develop a long-term partnership, you can negotiate pricing and pass that value to customers." Baggu has stuck with the same Chinese company for the last three years. Over that time, Sugihara has doubled her workforce to 20, while her network of vendors has grown to more than 1,000. During a March trip to China, Sugihara saw that she shares a manufacturer with her former employer when by chance she spotted a telltale scrap of fabric on a factory floor.
Lele Sadoughi, a former designer of J.Crew's jewelry line, says the experience of having creative- and business-side colleagues working closely together helped her when she started her namesake jewelry company two years ago. After her first interview with J.Crew in 2005 she discovered she would be a team of one, developing a category of costume baubles from scratch. "You just learn very quickly to think about costing and quantities and merchandising," she says. "It's all about the big picture there: Do you have your big necklace? Do you have your little pendant?" This approach to a collection influences her two-year-old line, which is carried by 75 retailers, including national chains such as Anthropologie (URBN) and Bloomingdale's (M). "You always had to make sure the merchandisers were getting what they want," says Sadoughi. "It taught me to be realistic."
J.Crew alums readily admit that their affiliation with the purveyor of quirky chic opened doors for them. "It's like how, in the '90s, everyone wanted to hire a designer from Abercrombie & Fitch (ANF)," says Dwight Fenton, who left J.Crew in 2013 to expand men's apparel at Bonobos, a startup that made its name selling pants. "While I wasn't looking for investors," adds Snyder, "I did need store accounts. No one knew who I was, so it was helpful to say I used to be the head of men's at J.Crew." In prior decades, alumni from Ralph Lauren (RL) and Gap (GPS) benefited from a similar halo effect. J.Crew declined to comment for this story.
Some prefer not to trade on their association with J.Crew as they seek to establish unique identities for their fledgling brands. Marissa Webb, former head of women's design at J.Crew, now sells her own line of women's separates at high-end boutiques and department stores. She declined to discuss her experience there because, as her representative wrote in an e-mail, "we have made a point not to … continue to tie Marissa to her J.Crew roots."


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Sunday, May 3, 2009
Give your dog a bath!
Have a dirty dog - here are some options for bathing your furry friend. One - with the warm weather you can bath your dog outside in a kitty pool or with a hose - this is a good option especially if you have a big dog - just be prepared as you will get wet. Two - bath your dog inside in the shower/tub or sink (if you have a small dog that is). Make sure you have lots of towels for after the bath. Three - bring your dog to barkley square and we'll do it for you. Just remember a clean dog is a happy dog!
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Technology is really simple to me. I like the philosophy of Google, I don't like the philosophy of Apple, and I do not like the philosophy of Microsoft, but I rely on my Microsoft knowledge for my livelyhood so I will always side with Microsoft. Those are my biases, but I believe they are biases for good reason. Google is a company for the people bla bla bla, you know all that garbage.
What I do not again is how people are so loyal to Apple because of the iPhone. At the end of the day I like Google products because they are an innovative company that I like, but I know for every awesome Android phone that comes out, there will be another awesome iPhone or Windows mobile phone, or WebOS phone. That is the reality of technology!! Apple did not invent the touch screen, they did not invent the app, and they did not invent GPS. Sure, the iPhone is the first widely accepted smart phone, but what is so special about it??
Even tech blogs like Engadget ripped apart the Nexus One for no real apparent reason. Everyone is so loyal to their technology and it is bizarre to me. At the end of the day, companies are using the same set of available technologies and creating great new technology, so why do we become so enchanted with the technology we own? I guess it is to justify our purchases and initial allegiances. I hate to break it to you, but the Apple apps are no more special than the Android apps and vise versa. As a fan of Android, I would like to think that they will create an app that will lighten up the world, but that is probably not the case. I am ok with Google existing to keep Apple and other companies honest, and I wish everyone would see why that is really important.