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Ohio Teen Headed to Trial in Craigslist Killings
(AKRON, Ohio) -- The trial for an Ohio teen accused of being the co-conspirator in an allegedly phony Craigslist job scheme that resulted in the deaths of three men is underway with jury selection beginning Tuesday.
Brogan Rafferty, 17, allegedly helped his mentor Richard Beasley, 53, lure victims to Ohio with the promise of a job on a cattle farm. The men were told to bring all their belongings because they would be living on the farm.
Four men responded to the ad and traveled to Ohio. Three of the men were killed and one was able to escape with wounds. Police have said they believe the motive for the killings was robbery.
David Pauley, 51, of Norfolk, Va., was found dead in Noble County, Ohio. Timothy Kern, 47, of Massillon, Ohio, was found shot in the head in a shallow grave. Ralph Geiger, 55, of Akron, Ohio, was also found with a gunshot wound to the head.
The fourth victim, Scott Davis of South Carolina, was able to escape after being shot in the arm and hiding in the woods, officials say.
Rafferty and Beasley will be tried separately. Both have pleaded not guilty to charges that include murder and attempted murder.
Rafferty is being tried as an adult, but cannot face the death penalty because he was a juvenile at the time of the alleged killings. He could face life in prison, if convicted. A judge has prohibited attorneys on both sides from commenting on the case outside of court.
Prosecutors and defense attorneys were recently at odds over recorded interviews in which Rafferty admitted to digging two of the victims' graves.
When Rafferty was asked about Davis, the man who managed to escape, he said, "I thought it was good for him because he kept talking about having a family on the way down there. I thought it was bad for Rich and probably bad for me, but good for him."
The interviews were recorded by a Noble County detective. Rafferty's attorney John Alexander argued to a judge that the statements should be withheld from trial because they were recorded in the principal's office of Stow High School without an attorney present.
Alexander said Rafferty said the word "attorney" multiple times during the interview, but was intimidated into talking, according to ABC News' Cleveland-Akron affiliate WEWS-TV.
Prosecutors argue that Rafferty was read his Miranda rights and was arrogant during the interviews, WEWS reported.
Summit County Judge Lynne Callahan ruled that the audio recordings could be used in the trial.
Rafferty's father, Michael Rafferty, told ABC News in November 2011 that his son unwittingly dug some of the shallow graves, thinking they were drainage ditches.
"I think he probably didn't realize what he was involved in until it was too late and that he was in fear for his life and the lives of the people he loved," Michael Rafferty told "Good Morning America."
Rafferty said his son told him that he did not shoot anyone and was under the spell of Beasley, who had been his mentor.
"To think that my son would be capable of masterminding some kind of crazy scheme like this, that's beyond belief," Michael Rafferty said.
Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for Beasley whose trial is scheduled to begin Jan. 7.
Beasley has an extensive criminal history and two Akron, Ohio, churches linked to Beasley have denied any direct connection to him.
Court documents from Texas show arrests and convictions for charges including burglary and the unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. Beasley spent about four years in prison in Texas.
Copyright 2012 ABC News Radio


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Gun owners usually fall into two camps: those who keep their weapons just as they come from the factory and those who do not. Those who desire to keep a firearm in its original factory condition do so for purposes including faithfulness to the original intent of the firearm's designers or protecting the factory warranty.
Those who customize their weapons probably desire to improve it in some way — to increase its functionality or even to personalize it. One camp asks: Why would you permanently change a perfectly good factory gun? The other side asks: Why wouldn't you? In the interest of full disclosure, I'm in the first camp.
For years, handgun owners have modified their steel revolvers and pistols — shortening barrels, porting chambers, changing stocks, and more. With the advent of the polymer-framed pistol, the opportunity to make changes has only increased. One of the most popular modifications to polymer-framed pistols is to add to or change the stocks to improve purchase (the firmness or quality of one's grip of the stocks). Some handgun owners add a rubber grip sleeve such as a Hogue Hand-All.
Others apply a sandpaper-like skateboard tape. Of course, grip sleeves and skateboard tape don't require physically altering the weapon; those add-ons are easily removed. Other gun owners, however, resort to more drastic measures, including stippling—broadly defined as "drawing, engraving, or painting in dots or short strokes." In this context, "engraving" seems to fit best as it involves melting the polymer and re-shaping it to improve purchase.
While companies such as Robar offer custom stippling for polymer-framed pistols — at a cost, but with many advantages — many handgun owners have attempted to hand-stipple a polymer-framed pistol at home. In fact, the Internet abounds with stories, images, and videos of successful hand-stippling jobs as well as those that are, shall we say, less than successful.
After reviewing several positive hand-stippling reports, fanciful notions of "I can do that" started to run through my head. Moreover, I thought I could do a decent stippling job on a new Kel-Tec PF-9, a polymer-framed 9mm pistol, with just a hot soldering iron. Would I get a better grip on a pistol or did I need to get a grip on reality?
Since this was my first and possibly last hand-stippling job, I decided to start small in two ways: First, I chose a small, inexpensive weapon. The Kel-Tec PF-9 measures 4.3 inches tall, 5.85 inches long, and .88 inches wide and in a blued finish retails for $333. It would be an expensive lesson if I somehow managed to destroy it but not as expensive as some other polymer-framed pistols. This provided only a modest comfort to me.
Second, the Kel-Tec's polymer frame offers stocks with a raised, checkerboard pattern (which, for the record, provide excellent purchase as is). Rather than attempt to stipple the entire grip area, I would only stipple the raised squares, borrowing from a design I had seen in an Internet gun forum. I figured the raised squares offered a little more depth of plastic and therefore greater margin for error.

subset: commoncrawl


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1. Re: Vote for issues for the M3 release!Max Power Oct 4, 2011 6:00 PM (in response to Brian Leathem)
I vote for this:
RF-10197 Right click menu - rich:contextMenu - should be supported for 4.0.0
From the issue itself it looks like the contextMenu may be considered as a sandbox component; even in that form, I would find it a worthy compromise for the time being.
2. Re: Vote for issues for the M3 release!Brian Leathem Oct 5, 2011 2:55 PM (in response to Max Power)
Thanks for the vote Will - we'll defintiely work towards having the rich:contextMenu available as a Sandbox component for use with the 4.1 release.
We've gone trhough the 4.1.0.Tracking version in Jira, and scheduled/fixed issues accordingly. By all means continue to vote for issues important to you, but we don't currently have a shortlist of issues collected.
Overall this exercise worked out great at for helping us identify where we should be focusing our efforts! Thanks everyone, and watch out for a similar call again in the future!


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Burn off those calories. Join me and your fellow TVTA members for a fun round-robin Friday after Thanksgiving (130pm), 11/23. Limited to 22 players max, teams will play 8-10 rounds of 15 minute segments. After each round, teams will move up or down and split partners. Don't be a turkey. Sign-up now.
Views: 147
Replies to This Discussion
Thanks Gary. Players will check in from 100p and warm-up. The rounds start at 130p sharp. I got you on the list. Coach D.
Where is this being held, and how do I sign up?
Hi Marc, the event will be held at Cal HS in San Ramon. I have added you to the list. Thanks. Coach D.
Sorry can't get there, please remove me from the list.
Some other time.
Hi Dudley,
I would love to join in this but will be out of town this week. Sounds like a lot of fun.
Happy Thanksgiving Dudley!!!
Hi Will, I hope you had a nice Thanksgiving. Let's catch up soon...
© 2019 Created by Mark / The Mayor. Powered by


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Just north of the Harmony Mill is the Cohoes Cataract...raging in spring, a gurgle in late summer and autumn, an ice castle in winter. The waters of the Mohawk were diverted just before the falls, harnessed for power generation and water flow through the New York State Barge Canal. Growing up around Cohoes, one learned early to defend the legend of Hiawatha descending the Cohoes Falls and vanishing in to the white mist. This Mohawk legend is Cohoes' claim to a time before the Dutch colonials.
|Click on image to enlarge and read
Cohoes Falls in Spring


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Fit for a Queen: Mid Century, Carved & Velvet Headboards
Sit back in bed, read a book; these headboards have your back. They look awfully nice too.
- Los Angeles, CA: Anthropologie Gate Headboard - $585
- Beachwood, NJ: Broyhill Basilia Headboard - $400
- Venice, CA: Carved Headboard - $400
- Chicago, IL: West Elm Bed - $375
- Sausalito, CA: Velvet Tufted Headboard - $200
Shoppers, check out the Classifieds for many more listings. Sellers, gather up your goods and list them in our Classifieds to turn them into a little extra spending cash.
Go To: Classifieds Main Page
(Images: As linked above)
Apartment Therapy is not the seller of these items. This is an edited selection of our favorite offerings from our Classifieds. For more information, see How it Works. Happy Scavenging!


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Here is a film to give a whole new meaning to the phrase "in-depth interview". When En shares her thoughts on masturbation, she shows us exactly what she means. When she talks about women's orgasms, we can see exactly her response.
En speaks frankly about her fetishes, her fantasies and how she enjoys sex. She is eloquent and creative and this comes out in the way she takes the camera into her confidence.
Starting with her very own lingerie show, she makes no secret of her love of underwear that flatters her body. But which is more arousing? To put it on? Or to take it off again?
Would you like to comment? Join us today, or sign in if you're already a member.


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When the March contest was originally announced, it included the following styles:
Style:......................Dresden Kaleidoscopes/ OBW/Stack n Whack/any
...................................Kaleidoscope shape/ Dresden Plates
The reminder post stated the following:
You can enter anything made with Kaleidoscopes of any kind.
All types of quilts and projects are welcome!
No size limits.
Soooooooo ... here are the entries, which include Dresden and Kaleidoscopes with no size requirements.
1. Votes must be cast by email to [email protected]
You will vote using the subject line. The subject line must read:
Dresden/Kaleidoscope - I Vote For #[insert entry number here]
2. State your board name in the body of the email.
3. Votes posted as comments in this topic will not count.
4. Votes emailed that don't have the correct subject line and your board
name in the body will not count.
5. Votes cast by PM will not count.
6. One vote per member; vote for one quilt only.


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Executive Summary
China Hydrocephalus Shunting Procedures Outlook to 2025
GlobalData's new report, China Hydrocephalus Shunting Procedures Outlook to 2025, provides key procedures data on the China Hydrocephalus Shunting Procedures. The report provides procedure volumes within market segments-New Hydrocephalus Shunts Procedures and Revision Hydrocephalus Shunts Procedures.
The data in the report is derived from dynamic market forecast models. GlobalData uses epidemiology based models to estimate and forecast the procedure volumes. The objective is to provide information that represents the most up-to-date data of the industry possible.
The epidemiology-based forecasting model makes use of epidemiology data gathered from research publications and primary interviews with physicians to establish the target patient population and treatment flow patterns for individual diseases and therapies. Using prevalence and incidence data and diagnosed and treated population, the epidemiology-based forecasting model arrives at the final numbers.
Extensive interviews are conducted with key opinion leaders (KOLs), physicians and industry experts to validate the procedure volumes.
- China Hydrocephalus Shunting Procedures volumes by segments-New Hydrocephalus Shunts Procedures and Revision Hydrocephalus Shunts Procedures.
- Projections for each of the market segments. Data is provided from 2015 to 2025.
Reasons to buy
- Develop business and investment strategies by identifying the key market segment expected to register strong growth in the near future.
- Develop market-entry and market expansion strategies.
Read More
Contact Us:
1 Table of Contents
1 Table of Contents 2
1.1 List of Tables 3
1.2 List of Figures 3
2 Introduction 4
2.1 What Is This Report About? 4
2.2 Hydrocephalus Shunting Procedures Segmentation 4
2.3 Definitions of Procedures Covered in the Report 4
3 Hydrocephalus Shunting Procedures, China 5
3.1 Hydrocephalus Shunting Procedures, China, 2015-2025 5
3.1.1 Revision Hydrocephalus Shunts Procedures, China, 2015-2025 7
4 Appendix 9
4.1 Research Methodology 10
4.1.1 Coverage 10
4.1.2 Secondary Research 10
4.1.3 Primary Research 11
4.1.4 Market Modeling and Forecasting 12
4.1.5 Company Share Analysis 13
4.1.6 Distribution Share Analysis 14
4.1.7 Benchmarking 14
4.2 GlobalData Consulting 14
4.3 Contact Us 15
4.4 Disclaimer 15
1.2 List of Figures
Figure 1: Hydrocephalus Shunting Procedures, China, 2015-2025 5
Figure 2: Revision Hydrocephalus Shunts Procedures, China, 2015-2025 7
1.1 List of Tables
Table 1: Hydrocephalus Shunting Procedures, China, 2015-2020 6
Table 2: Hydrocephalus Shunting Procedures, China, 2021-2025 6
Table 3: Revision Hydrocephalus Shunts Procedures, China, 2015-2020 8
Table 4: Revision Hydrocephalus Shunts Procedures, China, 2021-2025 8
Table 5: Total Number of Primary Research Participants, Neurology Devices Market, by Country 12
Single User License:
Site License:
Corporate User License:
Neurology Procedures, Hydrocephalus Shunting Procedures, Neurovascular Thrombectomy Procedures, Neurovascular Embolization Procedures, Neurovascular Coiling Assist Procedures, Neurovascular Accessory Procedures, Intracranial Stenting Procedures, ICP Procedures, Dura Substitute Procedures, Neuromodulation Procedures, Volume, Historic Procedure Numbers, Forecast Procedure Numbers
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The report was very informative and gives me an interesting view on the Indian market.... "Area Sales Manager, Muhlen Sohn GmbH & Co. KG"
We would like to thank the entire team of Ken Research in showcasing professionalism in research and quick turnaround time. We have had multiple research reports from Ken Research. The deadline communicated for research was duly met. The research reports were covering many aspects in detail. This showcases their endeavor and care for client satisfaction and a strong understanding of the clients' requirements. Thank you again for your help... "Group Vice President Strategy, Aliaxis"
I appreciate their diligence and determination in customizing the research project. The data proves to be valuable and accurate. I would, in future, definitely use their services again... "Technical Marketing Manager, Ascendis Health Limited"
I would like to thank Ken research team for meeting our report deliverables. The report is very good and we appreciate your well cooperation. ... "., Coldwell Banker - Riyadh "
The research you conducted was very helpful for us and the integrity of your research approach gave us great confidence in the data. Look forward to collaborating again in future... "International and Business Dev. Director, Duta Abadi Primantara"
Company Brochure


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Expert Overview
Flooring is an important part of the mix when planning your kitchen. These days, options have moved beyond wood and tile to include eco-friendly choices like bamboo,
cork and reclaimed woods.
Think about: Unique flooring
Brick, concrete and rubber are increasingly popular. Brick comes in various colors and textures and offers an antique look. Concrete can give a modern feel, especially
with the addition of stain. Rubber, often seen in professional kitchens, comes in custom colors and is highly durable.
Think about: Floorplan
Wood may be a good choice for an open kitchen that flows into other parts of the home. Wood also adds warmth and character. The downside is that it requires more
upkeep to look pristine. Sealed or pretreated wood may maintain its original beauty longer.
Think about: Upkeep
Know your daily traffic patterns; some surfaces withstand continual use better than others. Wood surfaces wear out more quickly; tile can crack. Brick, rubber, cork
and bamboo are good options for a busy kitchen.


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HANG TIME, Texas — When the deal finally went down and Superman tied on his cape to fly cross country and join the Lakers, a lot of folks just nodded their heads and figured that's what was expected all along.
Mitch Kupchak wasn't one of them. The Lakers general manager tells our man Kevin Ding of the Orange County Register that he had all but given up hope of dressing Dwight Howard up in the purple and gold:
"I just never felt that there was a deal that they thought that they would do," Kupchak said. "Without going into great detail, I just felt the Magic were just canvassing the league, which is the job. … I didn't think there would be a deal. It got really quiet a couple weeks ago. Before that, it was very crazy – and then it just died. So we had kind of moved on.
"We had signed Jordan Hill. We had signed Antawn Jamison. And we thought it was over."
Kupchak gives credit to Magic GM Rob Hennigan for Howard being in Lakerland. Hennigan was barely weeks on the job in Orlando, yet he developed a plan, was persistent and followed through to the point where he expanded a possible three-team trade that included Philadelphia into a four-team deal that sent Andre Iguodala to Denver to get it all done.
"Looking back on it, he did exactly what he was supposed to do," Kupchak said. "He took his time. He looked at every opportunity, narrowed it down, negotiated, went back to a different team, negotiated some more, kept on coming back to you.
"I never thought it would be a four-team deal; I thought it might be a three-team deal. So even when I thought there might be a deal there, he went out and found a fourth team to make it a better deal."
Count Kupchak as surprised. And satisfied.


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Never say die...
Antioch College's faculty may be down, but they're not out, and they refuse to take the temporary shuttering of the school on the chin:
YELLOW SPRINGS, Ohio - In a wood-paneled basement filled with boxes of nuts, bolts and screws, a college journalism class is under way.
Naked wooden beams and ductwork hang overhead. The instructor's voice competes with the sound of the furnace, which kicks on from time to time.
This makeshift classroom is part of a patchwork of homes, churches and offices cobbled together to form the "Nonstop Liberal Arts Institute," spawned by former professors of Antioch College, which closed temporarily earlier this year amid financial problems.
Professors launched the institute this week to preserve the school's spirit and maintain its core of teachers.
"We want to keep the DNA alive," said Scott Warren, former associate professor of philosophy. "We want to keep the soul moving until we get the campus back."
Classes are being held just about anywhere in southwest Ohio, including a Buddhist meditation center and an office above a mattress store.
The institute, funded by Antioch alumni, has attracted about 60 students in its first semester, Warren said. Its pupils range from former Antioch College students to local villagers, including an 87-year-old woman and a 65-year-old man.
Its staff includes about 20 former Antioch College teachers, plus a handful of retired Antioch teachers and instructors from nearby colleges who have volunteered to teach for free.
The Yellow Springs institute is unaccredited and is not affiliated with Antioch.
Former Antioch College student Molly Thornton was planning to transfer to another school, but got caught up in the Antioch alumni's excitement about the institute this summer.
"I said 'Oh, this is really going to happen,'" recalled Thornton, 20, of Santa Fe, N.M. "My plan is to stay here indefinitely."
Tuition costs $1,500 per semester, and students must make their own living arrangements and provide their own meals.
Located about 15 miles east of Dayton, Antioch College is known for its pioneering academic programs that produce students with a passion for free thinking and social activism. The college is the flagship of Antioch University, which also has campuses in Seattle, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Calif., and Keene, N.H.
Trustees say they want the college to reopen as soon as possible, and they have asked alumni to propose a plan in which the college would operate independently of the university.
Toni Murdock, chancellor of Antioch University, has said she applauds the passion of the group, but questions whether courses taken at the institute can be applied toward graduation at other schools. Warren said the institute is seeking accreditation and believes that many colleges will give students credit for coursework they complete at the institute.
"It's not bad," said Derrick Lane, 20, of Cleveland, who attended Antioch College for two years. He said the institute has the same ideals as the college and many of the same teachers.
"I'm so liking the Antioch stuff that transferring somewhere else would be a major culture shock," he said.
Classes offered at the institute include such courses as "Revolutions: Theory and Practice," "The Art of Political Discourse: Critical Thinking," and "Visions of Suburbia."
"We're homeless," said Dennie Eagleson, who taught at Antioch College for 20 years and now teaches photography at the institute. "What we've tried to do is detach ourselves from that struggle — which was really heartbreaking and hard — into something we have control over."
As some who actually READ Cervantes (although not in Spanish), let me say: you just gotta admire people willing to tilt at windmills....
Labels: rebels with a cause


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Texas Explosives Company to Use EMRTC Testing Facility, Dec. 9, 2005
by Shawna Carter
SOCORRO, N.M., Dec. 9, 2005 — Nanotechnologies Inc., an Austin-based explosives company, is spinning off a sister company, Nanoenergetics Inc., which will use the Energetic Materials Research Testing Center (EMRTC) at New Mexico Tech as its main testing facility for new explosive technologies the company hopes to develop and market.
"There is nothing equivalent to EMRTC's test and evaluation capabilities in Texas, or in my opinion, any other state," says Dennis Wilson, chief technology officer in charge of the newly created Nanoenergetics.
Nanoenergetics representatives also say that New Mexico's research and testing assets, economic incentives, growing private investment scene and accessible political leaders make it an ideal place to establish their new setup.
Recently, Nanoenergetics and New Mexico Tech submitted a proposal to the U.S. Department of Justice to develop anti-improvised explosive devices, which could be used by police during a terrorist attack to neutralize certain explosive charges.
Nanoenergetics plans to open its doors in early 2006 with an administrative building in Albuquerque and testing facilities at New Mexico Tech.


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Empire Today Tile Flooring in Newton Upper Falls MA 02464
Empire Today Tile Flooring in Newton Upper Falls MA 02464
Newton Upper Falls New Carpets & Flooring - Serving Newton Upper Falls and surrounding areas. Highly trusted for over 15 years!Call Now! (855) 972-3873
The use of marble floor tiles as a building material has had a quite long and famous career, as it has had extensive uses in the courtyards of the Roman Empire, in the palaces and estates of Renaissance Europe, and up to more recent times.
Marble floor tiles have become more and more popular, not only for residential applications, such as hallways, foyers, living rooms and in bathrooms, but also for commercial projects with similar uses. One of the best attributes marble tiles can extend to a project is the aura of artistry and old-world elegance that only marble tiles can effectively bring to homes and buildings.
Marble Serves As An Elegant Decorative Piece
The reputation of marble tile have stayed strong for centuries. One of the aspects in which marble is known is its role in the creation of exquisite fine art. Generally it is treasured for its refined, classical, decorative look.
Marble is also known for its versatility in the production of artifacts ranging from monuments to sculptures, wall tiles to floor tiles. However because of the connections most people have with this stone type, no matter what application most of us have in mind, the result is definitely going to be viewed as a major artistic statement, and one that is meant to last for years. A marble tile floor will remain as a monument to itself, as well as to good taste, with which it is also associated.
in Newton Upper Falls, MA, these types of tiles are finding more and more and more applications, and usually range from utilizing marble tiles in bathrooms, to using marble tiles in the hallways and lobbies of commercial buildings. One may say that marble, which was the fixture of choice in the Middle ages, is itself enjoying a renaissance of its own today.
Marble Has A Unique Aesthetic Quality Not Seen In Other Stones
Marble tiles today possess a decorative natural stone flooring solution that cannot be matched aesthetically. Marble has generally been sought after by artists, artisans, and architects, and is firmly rooted in the history of architecture, art, and of the development of Eastern and Western civilizations.
These stones were used to fashion memorable and literally monumental pieces of artwork. As such, marble stands as a material with built-in associations of craft, artistry, and longevity, making it a preferred material for use in any interior. With marble tiles, a unique aesthetic quality is gained, along with a reputation for the rich historical legacy with which this stone is associated with.
Hypoallergenic Choice For Flooring
Many in Newton Upper Falls, MA view the use of marble as a hypoallergenic choice for flooring, because it has a dense surface upon which antigens, and particles which cause allergic symptoms become inflamed, and are less able to reside than they would in carpets. Before, the use of marble as flooring surfaces for hospitals was common, until the use of porcelain tiles grew to its current level of popularity.
In the summer season, the cool surface of these tiles can be quite a pleasant underfoot, adding a unique comfort value to the choice of flooring. Most flooring experts in Newton Upper Falls, MA see marble floor tiles as a great way to accent an interior, with the added benefits of its more practical features.
[ssyelp location="Newton Upper Falls MA" term="New Carpets & Flooring" limit="10"]


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ASHEVILLE, N.C. – The Tennessee Tech tennis team fell to UNC-Asheville Sunday, 5-2, at the Asheville Racquet Club Downtown.
Freshman Orthon Lima earned his first singles victory of the season when he defeated Brett Landau in three sets at the No. 6 spot. Sophomore Alejandro Augusto notched Tech's only other point by overcoming an early deficit and defeating Matt Waissen with dominance at the No. 2 slot.
In doubles play, junior Vasily Eremeev and sophomore Artem Tarasov continued their early season success by defeating Daniel Kripak and John Schubel in an 8-5 tiebreaker at No. 2.
Tech, 0-9, opens conference play at home in two weeks when they face Tennessee State on Saturday, March 16, at 12 pm.
UNC Asheville 5, Tennessee Tech 2
Mar 03, 2013 at Asheville, N.C. (ARC Downtown)
Singles competition
1. LANGEARD, Adrien (ASH) def. Syrym Abdukhalikov (TTU) 6-2, 6-4
2. Alejandro Augusto (TTU) def. WAISSEN, Matt (ASH) 2-6, 6-3, 6-2
3. KRIPAK, Daniel (ASH) def. Alvaro Cintas (TTU) 6-2, 6-1
4. CROKER, Alex (ASH) def. Vasily Eremeev (TTU) 7-5, 7-6
5. SCHUBEL, John (ASH) def. Arturo Santa Ruiz (TTU) 6-0, 6-2
6. Othon Lima (TTU) def. LANDAU, Brett (ASH) 2-6, 6-2, 8-6
Doubles competition
1. LANGEARD, Adrien/WAISSEN, Matt (ASH) def. Syrym Abdukhalikov/Alejandro Augusto (TTU) 8-5
2. Artem Tarasov/Vasily Eremeev (TTU) def. KRIPAK, Daniel/SCHUBEL, John (ASH) 8-7 (8-5)
3. LANDAU, Brett/CROKER, Alex (ASH) def. Alvaro Cintas/Arturo Santa Ruiz (TTU) 8-4
Match Notes
Tennessee Tech 0-9
UNC Asheville 5-2


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Cowboys nose tackle Josh Brent currently faces intoxication manslaughter charges in the wake of the death of teammate Jerry Brown. But Brent remains on bail and, technically, able to work.
The Cowboys have resolved a potentially delicate situation regarding Brent's right to continue working by shifting him to the non-football injury/illness list, according to Ed Werder of ESPN. The move, as Werder explains, gives Brent access to the team facility and support from the organization.
The biggest threshold question is whether the Cowboys will pay Brent; under the CBA, the team has the discretion to determine whether or not a player with a non-football injury or illness will continue to receive his salary.
Either way, the move defers for now the question of whether Brent will be disciplined by the team or the league. Though the team technically has no ability to impose a suspension on its own, the Cowboys can — as long as Brent and the NFLPA choose not to fight. (That's precisely what happened with the Steelers, who suspended defensive lineman Alameda Ta'amu two games after his DUI arrest.)
If (when) Brent pleads guilty to or is convicted of intoxication manslaughter, the league surely will step in. The precedent was set when the NFL suspended receiver Donte' Stallworth a year, after he pleaded guilty to DUI manslaughter.
For now, perhaps the fair outcome is to not pay Brent three games during his time on the NFI list, which makes is a non-suspension suspension. And it allows the NFL to later impose a real suspension, unless Brent avoids criminal responsibility for Brown's death.


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HANG TIME HEADQUARTERS — Nine days.
That's all the time we have left in the NBA regular season to sort out all of the issues facing us. And, Naismith knows, we have plenty of them.
Nine more (game) days to weave through the months of drama and finalize the playoff order in both the Eastern and Western Conferences, to see who will snatch this season's scoring title, to see if the Los Angeles Lakers can salvage the dumpster fire that their season has been since training camp … there's a host of other loose ends that need to be tied up before the postseason tips off.
We already know the eight players in the Eastern Conference. The Miami Heat, New York Knicks, Indiana Pacers, Brooklyn Nets, Chicago Bulls, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks have clinched their playoff bids. All that's left is to firm up the order beneath the Heat, who have a 10-game cushion in the standings.
The Knicks and Pacers are battling for the No. 2 seed (just 2.5 games separate the two). The Knicks surged ahead on the strength of their current 12-game win streak, fueled by their MVP candidate Carmelo Anthony and the streaky J.R. Smith.
The Nets are doing whatever it takes to hold on to their top four spot in the standings, and the coveted home-court advantage that comes along with it.
But at least the pecking order is pretty much set. Not so in the other half of the bracket.
The order in the West remains a bit muddled. The San Antonio Spurs, Oklahoma City Thunder, Denver Nuggets, Clippers and Memphis Grizzlies are playoff locks. The Spurs have already wrapped up the Southwest Division crown and the Clippers secured the first Pacific Division title in franchise history with their win over the Lakers Sunday at Staples Center.
"It just feels like something we were supposed to do," Chris Paul said after shredding the Lakers for 24 points and 12 assists. "It means we're headed in the right direction. We're not satisfied. We understand this is something small compared to the big picture."
The bottom of the standings in the Western Conference will come into a clearer focus in the last nine days. The Jazz have a half-game lead over the Lakers for the eighth and final spot in the playoff chase, courtesy of their huge win Sunday night over the Golden State Warriors.
The Jazz have four games remaining: against Oklahoma City on Tuesday, against Minnesota on Friday and in Minnesota on April 15, and at Memphis on April 17, the final night of the regular season.
The Lakers have a slight schedule advantage. Of their five remaining games just one (Wednesday night's tilt in Portland) will come away from the Staples Center. But their last three will be against playoff teams; Golden State on Friday, San Antonio on Sunday and Houston on April 17.
The Jazz own the head-to-head tiebreaker, the Lakers the favorable schedule. As suspected, this one could come down to the final night of the season.
The three-time scoring champ doesn't want a fourth title. Not right now.
Thunder superstar Kevin Durant said as much about his battle with Anthony for the scoring crown.
"He can have it," Durant said last week, before admitting that he is rooting for Anthony to snag his first scoring title in his 10th NBA season.
Durant obviously has more pressing matters to occupy his time, namely the Thunder's battle with the Spurs for the top overall seed in the Western Conference. OKC's loss Sunday to Anthony and the Knicks didn't help that cause.
Best guess: Anthony gets the scoring title (he's scored 36 or more points in four straight games) and the Spurs get the top seed in the West.
If form holds in the Eastern Conference, the No. 1 Heat will face off with the No. 8 Bucks, a matchup tilted heavily in favor of the league's best team.
Everything else after that, however, is literally up for grabs.
The difference between the six other teams is negligible on any given night. With experienced playoff teams like the Bulls, Hawks and Celtics lurking in the bottom half of the East bracket, the higher seeds have to be extremely careful with home-court advantage.
The Celtics and Bulls, in particular, are teams adept at ignoring the obvious and playing above their heads in the playoffs. Two physical teams like this, built with defense in mind — teams that have shown themselves capable of pushing the Heat to the edge (remember the Bulls snapped the Heat's 27-game win streak) — should have no problem making life difficult for higher seeds in the first round of the playoffs.
The Bulls have the one variable in the playoffs that could change the entire postseason landscape in former MVP Derrick Rose, who made it clear over the weekend that he has not abandoned the idea of suiting up this season.
Time is obviously not on his side. But that doesn't seem to be an issue for Rose or the Bulls, who would surely welcome back their All-Star — their best player — to a team that has survived without him quite well.
With just six games left, Rose will have to accelerate his decision-making process and come up with an answer sooner rather than later. After weeks of speculation to the contrary, might Rose actually be ready for a return?
It certainly seems that way based on what Rose told K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune:
"Oh, no," Rose said, when asked if he'd announce he's sitting out this season. "I'm keeping it open."
After Sunday's game against the Pistons, the Bulls have just six regular-season games remaining.
"I'm not trying to think about that right now," Rose said. "I'm just trying to get better. I'm just trying to help my teammates, give them confidence to go out there and play hard. I'll play whenever I'm ready to play. Who knows when I'm ready to? Right now, all I can do is just cheer on my teammates."
Rose first scrimmaged on Feb. 18 and has said whether he returns is as much a mental hurdle as a physical one at this point. Playing on a minutes limit wouldn't bother him.
"I wouldn't mind at all," he said. "Of course I want to play more. But it's not that big. I'm going to play whenever I'm ready. I don't care if it's 15 or 40 (minutes). I just love the game too much. Like I said, I'm just waiting and praying about it. And hopefully I'll be out there soon."
Bulls fans are waiting and praying as well, hoping that not only can Rose return but that he can thrive on his surgically repaired knee.
No one gets a fancy trophy for winning the league's dirty work award, the rebounding title.
But wouldn't it be something if Orlando's Nikola Vucevic (11.8 rebounds per game) was able to catch and pass former Magic and now Lakers big man Dwight Howard (12.5) for the top spot? Vucevic has turned out to be the surprise gem of the multiple-player and multiple-team deal that sent Howard to Los Angeles and Andrew Bynum to Philadelphia.
Raise your hand if you saw that coming …
If you are struggling with who goes where on your All-NBA first-team ballot, welcome to the club.
Outside of LeBron James and Paul, there are some extremely difficult choices that have to be made. Who gets the nod between Anthony and Durant at the other forward spot? And do you go with Marc Gasol at center and Kobe Bryant at shooting guard?
That relegates worthy candidates (based on the position-specific nature of the All-NBA team) like Tony Parker, Russell Westbrook, Howard and Tim Duncan to the second team, even though you could make a compelling case for each of them, too.
At least we have time to think about it … well, nine game days.


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Earlier Event: March 15California TCC Teachers Retreat
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text:
Angela MeloSpecial Rapporteur
Intersession Activity Report Commissioner
Angela Melo
Special Rapporteur of the Rights of Women in Africa
African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights
Banjul, The Gambia, 15 to 29 November 2006
FIRST PART: State of ratification of the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa.
SECOND PART: Activities carried out as Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Women in Africa
A) ACTIVITIES CARRIED OUT DURING THE 39th ORDINARY SESSION
F) FACT FINDING AND PROMOTIONAL MISSIONS1. The present Report sets forth the state of ratification of the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa. It also describes the overall promotional activities on the Rights of Women which I carried out in my capacity as Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Women in Africa between the 39th and 40th Ordinary Sessions of the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights. It outlines the studies, the projects for the dissemination and implementation of the Protocol on the Rights of Women in Africa, as well as the relations of collaboration with the various partners, including South Africa.
FIRST PART: State of ratifications of the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, on the Rights of Women in Africa
2. The countries which have ratified the Protocol are: Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, the Comoro Islands, Djibouti, The Gambia, Libya, Lesotho, Mali, Malawi, Mozambique, Mauritania, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Senegal, Seychelles, Togo and Zambia. 20 countries party to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights out of 53 have therefore ratified it.
3. The countries which have signed but not ratified are: Algeria, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire, Congo, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Mauritius, Niger, Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Swaziland, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe. 23 countries party to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights out of 53 are therefore still at the signature stage.
4. The countries which have not signed are: Sudan, Sao Tome and Principe, Eritrea, Egypt, the Central African Republic, Botswana and Angola. 7 countries party to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights out of 53 have therefore not yet signed the Protocol.
5. The Gambia had expressed reservations[1] during the ratification of the Protocol, but the Government recently lifted all the reservations.
6. Mauritius had expressed reservations with respect to Articles 6 b) and 6 c) on marriage. The country feels that it is not in a position to take the measures for moving the marriage age to 18 years, nor for monogamy to be encouraged as a privileged form of marriage, as that would conflict with the laws already in force. Mauritius also expressed reservations on Articles 10 (2) d) and 11 on the right to peace, asserting that this Article is not applicable to the country, specifically with regard to the refugee camps. Finally, Mauritius expressed reservations on Article 14 (2) c) on the choice of contraception methods, as currently a review of the legislation on abortion is underway.
7. South Africa has expressed reservations with respect to Article 4 j) on the death penalty which is justified by its non-application in South Africa, as the death penalty has been abolished. Another reservation was expressed with regard to Article 6 (d) on the registration of marriages. South Africa indicates that marriage should already be registered in conformity with the national laws in order for it to be recognized. Another reservation had been expressed with regard to Article 6 h) which confers equality between the man and the wife where the nationality of their children is concerned. South Africa considers that its national laws on citizenship are more advantageous for the children than this provision of the Protocol.
8. South Africa also formulated interpretative declarations. It clarified that the definition of violence against women in Article 1 f) of the Protocol has the same meaning and impact as that which is provided and interpreted by the Constitution of South Africa. Article 31, which explains that the Protocol can in no way violate the national laws which are most favorable for women, was also interpreted in a manner that would preclude the violation by the national laws of the rights guaranteed in the Protocol.
SECOND PART: Activities carried out as Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Women in Africa.
Banjul, The Gambia, 11 to 25 May 2006
9. Presentation
on the Protocol and the African Commission during a Seminar of Women Jurists of
West Africa organized in parallel with the NGO Forum.
10. Meeting
with the representatives of the American Institute Brandeis to discuss a
project on the translation of the Protocol into African languages.
11. Meeting
with a representative of Amnesty International[2] about
studies on violence.
12. Meeting with the Chairperson of the Association of Women Jurists of Chad[3] on the Hissen Habré affair and in particular on the participation of victims in the judicial process.
13. Meeting with a representative of the International Francophone Organization to discuss a project for the dissemination of the Protocol in the francophone countries of the African Union.
Banjul, The Gambia, 22nd June to 2nd July 2006
14. On
the 22nd and 23rd June, participation in the Women's
Forum in preparation for the 7th Summit of the African Union.
15. On
the 23rd June 2006, participation in a meeting on the creation of a
Steering Committee on Women, Governance and Development, set up by the Division
of Gender and Development of the African Union.
16. On the 24th and 25th
June, participation in a public Forum and in a Symposium on the effects of
cultural and traditional practices in the implementation of the instruments
protecting the rights of women.
17. On
the 26th and 27th June, participation in
the consultative meeting on Gender organized by Femme Afrique Solidarité
18. During
the African Union Summit, lobbying with all the representatives of the Member
States present, including the Foreign Ministers present.
19. During
the African Union Summit, lobbying with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of
Niger pertaining to the rejection of the ratification of the Protocol by the
National Assembly in June 2006. The Minister undertook to pursue the
sensitization effort with the Parliament.
20. During
the African Union Summit, meeting with a representative of the Women's NGO of
Niger involved in a campaign for the ratification of the Protocol and
encouragement for it to pursue the lobby with the Government of Niger to
realize ratification of the Protocol.
21. During the African Union Summit, meeting with the Executive Secretary of SADC aimed at establishing relations of cooperation with the Special reporting mechanism of the African Commission on the Rights of Women. A letter requesting the establishment of formal relations of cooperation had been sent to the SADC. This future cooperation is mentioned in section E of this Report.
25th May to 15th November 2006
22. On the 13th November 2006, I was supposed to
present an update of the Protocol as well as moderate at a group
discussion on the Rights of Women. I had problems relating to my
air ticket and I was unfortunately unable to arrive in time. A staff
member of the Secretariat who assisted me represented me during the two
23. On
the 11th and 12th May 2006, participation in the final
phase of the preparation of the Study of the Secretary General of the United
Nations on violence against women in New
York, as a member of the Committee of Experts[4].
24. On the 12th September 2006, in Nairobi, Kenya,
presentation on the Protocol during a meeting on the review and planning of the
Agenda of the SOAWR[5] Coalition. Formulation of recommendations on the action to be taken for the
continuation of the ratification of the Protocol by Member States of the African
Union and for the implementation of the Protocol. A follow-up meeting of the
Jurists is scheduled for early December 2006. Litigation will be studied as a
strategy for the implementation of the Protocol.
25. On
the 13th September 2006, in Nairobi, Kenya, presentation of a Paper on the Act on sexual offences in Kenya which entered into force on the 21st July 2006.
Underscoring the importance of recognition of sexual crimes by the
Government of Kenya and urging the Jurists to provide special assistance to
women victims to enable them assert their rights. During this meeting, a formal
agreement was arrived at between the Members of SOAWR and a representative of
the IPAS based in Nairobi, Kenya, with regard to collaboration
on the dissemination and the implementation of the Protocol.
26. On the 19th September 2006,
in Cape Town, South Africa, I moderated a session in the context of a seminar on
the experiences of national human rights
institutions relative to the management of conflicts[6]. Presentation of the Commission to
the representatives of the National Human Rights Institutions and I observed
the need to sensitize them on the work of the Commission and to establish
relations of collaboration. Discussions with the representative of the Custodian
of the Citizen of South Africa on the subject of establishing relations between
the offices of the Ombudsman and the Commission in the area of human rights. The
consequences of these discussions could allow the Commission to reformulate its
relations with the NGOs and the National Human Rights Institutions and to
review its criteria for the granting of Observer and Affiliate Status.
27. On
the 22nd September 2006,
in Maputo, Mozambique, participation in a
Ministerial Conference of the African Union on sexual and reproductive rights,
organized by Bénice Vawanas, Commissioner of the African Union. This Conference
provided me with an opportunity to sensitize the Ministers of the African Union
on the application of Article 14 of the Protocol on reproductive rights and to
urge those States which had not already done so, to ratify the Protocol.
28. During
the intersession, review of a project submitted following a meeting which had
been held in April 2006 in Maputo,
which brought together members of the civil society and the Ministry for
Women's Affairs. The NGOs active in the field of Women's Affairs introduced
activities to be carried out according to their respective areas of competence.
The review of the project should culminate in a second meeting during which I
will give a report to allow follow-up on the integrated Plan of Action for the
dissemination and implementation of the Protocol[7].
29. On
the 3rd October 2006, in Maputo, Mozambique:
meeting with the Mozambican Minister of Employment. Discussions on:
- The implementation of the Protocol by the Government, particularly with respect to Article 13 on economic and social rights;
- The follow-up of the African Union's Plan of Action on the promotion of employment for women and poor individuals;
- The solemn Declaration by the African Union on Gender Equality[8];
- The two new laws tabled for adoption in the National Assembly: One on employment which focuses on the current socio-economic stakes for the safeguarding of the rights of women recognised in the Constitution and in the ILO[9] Conventions. Another which aims at protecting the destitute social classes, like those who hold domestic10 jobs, and which aims at providing social protection to the women who work in the informal sector. Proposals made to the Minister to translate these laws into English and French for use by all the Members of the African Union.
- The quest for funds for the creation of a business centre for women, which would notably take care of the professional training of rural women.
30. On the 11th October 2006, in Maputo, Mozambique: meeting with the Minister of Fisheries of Mozambique to urge him to recognize the norms of Article 13 of the Protocol and to institutionalize a Division on Gender. An agreement was realized in this respect and I spoke about the lobby which I had undertaken with the Mozambican Government for the institutionalization of the Gender Units existing under some Ministries. Also, a pilot project is underway for the setting up of micro-credit organizations which deal with women.
31. On the 12th October 2006, in Maputo, Mozambique: participation in a Seminar organized by the Mozambican Women's NGO Forum pertaining to the new law on inheritance. Presentation of the Protocol, in particular about the rights of widows and observation that the contents of the Protocol had not been adequately taken into account during the drafting of the new law on inheritance. After my intervention, the right of the widow to stay in the family home provided for in Article 21 of the Protocol was incorporated in the draft law.
32. On the 17th October 2006, in Maputo, Mozambique: meeting with the Mozambican Deputy Minister of Health. Presentation of the Protocol and encouragement for its implementation while requesting that special attention be paid to Articles 13 and 14. Also discussed was the creation of Departments responsible for Gender issues within the Health Institutions. A position of Adviser on Gender Issues exists within the Ministry of Health. A review of the law on abortion is in process. Regional meetings have been held and public opinion on the issue of abortion will soon be communicated to the Council of Ministers. A project on sexual and reproductive health will also be submitted to the Council of Ministers.
33. During the intersession and up to now in Mozambique, work is being done on a review of the public sector. The project is in its second phase, which involves the introduction of activities, results and indicators on Gender. A proposal will be sent to the Government during this Session.
34. Comparative study on Gender issues: A
study of the Constitutions of the Member countries of the African Union
has been started. A questionnaire for distribution to the
States is currently being prepared.
35. A structure for monitoring[11] the implementation of the Protocol[12] is being drafted. Requests for financial support were submitted to the donors[13]. A meeting for the nomination of representatives of Civil Society held during the NGO Forum which preceded the 40th Session in Banjul in November 2006.36. A project for the dissemination of the Protocol in the Member Countries of the OIF[14] had been submitted to one of its representatives[15] at the 39th Session. A follow-up letter accompanied by a request for support had been sent in September 2006. A response is being awaited from the OIF.
37. A project for the dissemination of
the Protocol in Mozambique
is being prepared and should
obtain support from OXFAM, with the perspective of extending it to the regional
level. The intention is to submit a request for financial support to UNIFEM.
38. A project on female genital mutilation is being drafted.
39. Web pages on the special mechanism relating to the Rights of Women in Africa are ready to be added to the African Commission's website. This project had been realised with the help of financial and human resources provided by the Centre for Human Rights Studies of the University of Pretoria. I wish to express my gratitude for this support.40. A project for the dissemination of the Protocol and the strengthening of relations between Women's Organizations in The Gambia is being drafted in collaboration with the Dean of the University of The Gambia. There are plans to organize a two-day workshop for the dissemination of the Protocol and to improve the relations of collaboration and coordination of the activities being carried out by all the organizations working for the promotion of women's rights in The Gambia.
41. Formal letters of request for collaboration had
been sent to the SADC. The Secretariat of the Commission is following up on this to finalize
the agreement.
43. For several years now a partnership has been maintained with the Canadian Organization, Rights and Democracy, which provides considerable financial and technical support to the special reporting mechanism on the Rights of Women in Africa. I wish to express my thanks for the support thus provided.
44. Other important links of collaboration have for years been maintained with the Centre for Human Rights of the University of Pretoria, I would like to thank this Organization for its financial and technical support.
45. For the first time, the special reporting mechanism of the African Commission on the Rights of Women obtained technical assistance from one of the Member States of the African Union. The Government of South Africa will send a new Assistant for the Special Rapporteur, who will work in the Secretariat in Banjul as from January 2007.
46. The Mauritanian Government approved the carrying out of a promotional mission for the month of September 2006. However, given the situation existing between Mauritania and the African Union, the Commission decided to postpone this mission to a later date.47. A Note Verbale had been sent to the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo requesting that I be received as Special Rapporteur for a promotional mission, but no response has been obtained, in spite of the follow up letters sent.
Note Verbale had been sent to the Government of Algeria requesting that I be received as Special Rapporteur for a promotional mission,
but no response had been obtained.
Note Verbale had been sent to the Government of Ethiopia requesting that I be
received as Special Rapporteur for a promotional mission, but no formal
response has been received in spite of the explanations of the Government
representatives who attended the 39th Ordinary Session.
Note Verbale had been sent to the Government of Equatorial Guinea requesting
that I be received as Special Rapporteur for a promotional mission, but no
reaction has been received in spite of all the letters sent following up the
Verbale had been sent several times to the Government of Tunisia since 2004
requesting it to receive me as Special Rapporteur for a promotional mission,
but a response is yet to be received.
Apart from the promotional missions mentioned
above, a mission of promotion is scheduled for Lesotho.
53. I wish to invite all the representatives of the States concerned who are present at this Session to react to the proposals of promotional missions which had been submitted to them.
[1] The reservations concerned Article 5 on the elimination of harmful practices, Article 6 on marriage, Article 7 on separation, divorce and the annulment of marriage, and finally Article 14 on health and reproductive rights.
[2] Mr. Tomalso Falcheta
[3] Mrs. Jacqueline Moudeina
[4] The study is available on line on the United Nations website since September 2006
[5] Coalition of Women's NGOs for the ratification and implementation of the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights relative to the Rights of Women in Africa.
[6] In English the title of the Seminar was: "Implementing Conflict Management through Human Rights Frameworks: Experiences of National Human Rights Institutions".
[7] On the 18th April 2006, I met the Members of the Civil Society of Mozambique in Maputo to draft a Plan for the dissemination of the Protocol. A second meeting had been proposed for a follow up on this project.
[8] Assembly/AU/Decl 12 (III), July 2004
[9] In particular on the four principal Conventions on Equality: the Convention on Discrimination (employment and occupation), 1958, the Convention on Equal Pay, 1951, the Convention on Workers with family responsibilities, 1981, and the Convention on the protection of motherhood, 2000.
[10] Several women have domestic jobs which are not economically valued or recognized as employment.
[11] The objective of the monitoring structure is to encourage the ratification and implementation of the Protocol on the Rights of Women in Africa. It will be directed by a Committee comprising influential individuals such as the Men and Women Directors of African Institutions, of Ministers responsible for Gender Issues, Representatives of Civil Society for the five sub-regions of Africa. The Committee will meet to determine the measures for achieving Women's Rights.
[12] The Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights relative to the Rights of Women in Africa.
[13] The Donors approached are the Canadian International Development Agency, Rights and Democracy, Open Society Initiatives for West Africa, International Francophonie Organisation, Danish Human Rights Institute, Swedish International Development Agency, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Commonwealth Secretariat, Human Rights Unit – Department of Foreign Affairs of Ireland.
[14] International Francophonie Organisation
[15] M. Camara


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Actress Julianne Moore dazzled guests at Bulgari's pre-Oscars party in Los Angeles by wearing an emerald-and-diamond necklace that once belonged to Elizabeth Taylor.
The late movie icon's jewels were on display at the bash on Tuesday night – but Moore actually got to wear one of the star's most famous pieces, a gift from her husband Richard Burton.
Taylor wore the gems onstage at the Oscars in 1967 when she was named Best Actress for her role in "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?"
Bulgari jewellery experts purchased the necklace at a Christie's auction in 2011 for more than $6 million.
Moore said, "It's so lovely to be able to wear something like this. It has so much sentimental value and is obviously such a beautiful, exquisite piece. It's really a work of art."
Among those left stunned by Taylor's jewels were fellow guests Drew Barrymore, Kirsten Dunst and Naomi Watts, who is nominated for an Academy Award this Sunday for her role in "The Impossible."


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Sacred Trust
Science & Sensibility's post today, Sacred Trust of 24/7, speaks, almost gingerly, of the Sacred Trust between a physician and a patient. Dr. Michael Lu says:
"I know I could talk my patient into anything, and most OBs know that. But that's a misuse of that trust. Yet there is that sacred trust. I don't know how to change that culture. Maybe the trust is misplaced. And this is what I haven't figured out, if we replace the OB with a team, can you have trust in a team the same way you have a trust in your OB?"
But, it isn't just with OBs that this trust occurs… and is exploited, but also with midwives. One needn't look far to see this in motion every single moment of the day.
- No, you don't need IV antibiotics; Hibiclens does the same thing.
- No, you don't need Vitamin K; it causes leukemia anyway.
- No, you won't need Pitocin; we have herbs for hemorrhage instead.
- No, you don't need to go to the hospital; you're just taking longer than normal, but it's okay.
- No, you aren't taking longer than normal; it's just a variation of the norm.
- No, you don't need antibiotics; just take cranberry capsules and drink lots of water.
- No, you don't need to be induced; some pregnancies just go over 42 (43, 44) weeks.
- No, you don't need to take the GTT; Gestational Diabetes doesn't really exist.
I could go on and on, but you get the gist.
We in the Natural Birth World are even taught to distrust everything an OB says, but who teaches how to decipher who is telling the truth or not? Why are the very few of us who suggest there be some discretion with what midwives say vilified? I don't understand how a woman can put her all her trust in one set of letters after a name and not any in another set of letters (or lack of letters!).
Perhaps the UCers are nodding and saying, "See! This is why we only trust ourselves!" But, even that isn't true because they've been sold a bill of goods as well, that birth is always normal and good with a great attitude and no fear.
Who really speaks for the woman? Who are the providers (or doulas) who tell the truth? How can a woman find a Truth-Teller? I don't know if there is any specific way for a woman to know if her provider is completely on her side except through referrals and her own examined experience.
I really, really love the idea of a group discussion, not just a second opinion, but a nurse, doctor, midwife and maybe another doctor, who decide if a woman gets cut or not. My own preference, of course, would be an experienced doula in the mix, but that would be a fantasy stretch for providers to consider. And I know in the case of emergency, there's no time to create a quorum, but the great majority of cesareans are not that type of emergency.
Do others have ideas on how to know if a provider really is giving complete Informed Consent or just offering what s/he is capable of doing? This is a really important question and one I hope will be asked amongst the different factions of the Natural Birth Community.
ICAN of Nashville pointed out I forgot, probably THE most important person for the quorum: THE MOTHER. Writing, I was thinking of the provider team, but the mother, absolutely, positively is the most important part of the decision-making team. I humbly apologize for the ghastly oversight.


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The Columbia University Libraries is pleased to announce a new awards program designed to facilitate research access to the Libraries' special and unique collections.
The Libraries will award ten grants of $2,500 each to those researchers who demonstrate a compelling need to consult Columbia Libraries special collections for their work. All US citizens are welcome to apply and preference will be given to those outside the New York City metropolitan area. The intent of the grant is to help defer the cost of visiting the Libraries for research needs.
Participating libraries and collections include those located on the Morningside Heights campus: the Avery Architectural and Fine Arts Library, The Burke Library at Union Theological Seminary, Butler Library, the Lehman Social Sciences Library, the Rare Book & Manuscript Library, the C. V. Starr East Asian Library, and the Libraries' Area Studies Collections. These grants will be awarded on a competitive basis through an application process.
Applications will be accepted through January 31, 2012, with research expected to be conducted at Columbia between July 1, 2012 and June 30, 2013. For eligibility, application guidelines, conditions, and more information about the special collections at Columbia University, please visit the Libraries Research Awards Program page.
Columbia University Libraries/Information Services is one of the top five academic research library systems in North America. The collections include over 11 million volumes, over 150,000 journals and serials, as well as extensive electronic resources, manuscripts, rare books, microforms, maps, and graphic and audio-visual materials. The services and collections are organized into 22 libraries and various academic technology centers. The Libraries employs more than 500 professional and support staff. The website of the Libraries is the gateway to its services and resources: library.columbia.edu.


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As the saying goes, curiosity killed the cat. For Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant, curiosity is making that cat play a little prettier on the field.
Via Calvin Watkins of ESPNDallas.com, Bryant recently explained to reporters that he's asking more questions in meetings, and that he believes it's helping him become a better player.
"I'm playing free," Bryant said. "I feel like I've put a little bit extra time [in] to feel free and be more comfortable in the offense and asking questions instead of keeping my mouth closed. I felt like that's helped me out a lot."
In the past three games, Bryant has nine receptions for 212 yards and a touchdown. Though that's not exactly the level the Cowboys envisioned when making him a first-round pick in 2010, it's giving him a shot at his first 1,000-yard season.
Which could give him a shot at sticking around over the long haul in Dallas.
The better news for Bryant and the Cowboys is that the willingness to ask questions is a sign of maturity. If Bryant otherwise is maturing, he could be getting closer to finally fulfilling his unlimited potential.


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From APRSWiki
(Redirected from UI-View)
UI-View32 - is a 32-bit Windows APRS client.
About program[edit]
The author, Roger Barker (G4IDE) became a silent key in September 2004, but UI-View32 is still one of the the most popular APRS clients. UI-View32 is no longer maintained due to the source code being destroyed after Roger's death per his wishes. That said, there is still a very active support group and also a development community creating add-on software for UI-View32.There are many "add-ons" and more get created from time to time.
- ui-view.org - The official UI-View website is now at.
- apritch.myby.co.uk/uiv32.htm - UI-View32 can be registered at.
- UI-View web resource from M0CYP - more information can be found here.
- About UI-View on russian


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NEW YORK (Reuters) - In the end, nothing could persuade enough U.S. senators to approve the most significant gun legislation in two decades:
Not the carnage from Newtown, Connecticut, where 20 children and six adults were massacred by a gunman in December, igniting a national debate on gun control.
Not the impassioned pleas of Newtown survivors' families, whose calls for expanded background checks for gun buyers so moved a pro-gun senator from West Virginia that he became their advocate.
And not the support of President Barack Obama, who was inspired by Newtown to make gun control the first major initiative of his second term.
The U.S. Senate's key vote on Wednesday wasn't exactly a rejection of expanded background checks, gun-control advocates were careful to point out.
Most senators - 54 - approved the measure, which polls indicated was backed by more than 80 percent of Americans. But because Republicans threatened to use a filibuster to block any gun proposal that did not get 60 votes in the 100-member Senate, the plan to expand background checks to sales made online and at gun shows fell short.
And just like that, the most aggressive push for gun control in a generation did, too.
How galling was the defeat for the new gun-control movement?
Another Senate vote on Wednesday told the story: Four months after Newtown jolted America, the 54 senators who voted to expand background checks were three less than the 57 who voted for a Republican-backed plan to expand Americans' rights to carry concealed weapons.
That tally also was short of the 60 votes needed to clear the Senate. But taken together, the votes made a statement about Americans' devotion to guns - there are estimated 270 million guns in circulation across the nation - and the success of the powerful gun lobby, led by the National Rifle Association.
So where do gun-control advocates go from here?
On Wednesday, amid their disappointment, frustration and anger, it was clear that the new groups who have driven the gun-control agenda since Newtown already were taking aim at the 2014 and 2016 elections.
New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, whose personal fortune has helped to fund a group called Mayors Against Illegal Guns, called Wednesday's vote a "damning indictment of the stranglehold that special interests have on Washington."
He said that his group would work to defeat opponents of gun control in the 2014 midterm elections, saying that "our ever-expanding coalition of supporters will work to make sure that voters don't forget."
In an opinion piece that was to appear in The New York Times on Thursday, former U.S. Representative Gabrielle Giffords - who was critically wounded in a mass shooting in Tucson, Arizona in 2011 and founded Americans for Responsible Solutions, a group that focuses on gun violence - vowed not to give up.
"On Wednesday, a minority of senators gave in to fear and blocked common-sense legislation that would have made it harder for criminals and people with dangerous mental issues to get hold of deadly firearms," Giffords wrote.
"I will not rest until we have righted the wrong these senators have done," she continued. "... I am asking every reasonable American to help me tell the truth about the cowardice these senators demonstrated. ... I'm asking citizens to go to their offices and say, 'You've disappointed me, and there will be consequences.' "
At the White House, an angry Obama struck a similar tone.
"This was a pretty shameful day for Washington," he said. "This effort is not over. ... If this Congress refuses to listen to the American people and pass common-sense gun legislation, then the real impact is going to have to come from the voters."
For all the determination of the gun-control groups - and for all of the public support they enjoy - the Senate's vote showed that challenging the nation's attachment to guns or Americans' devotion to guns is a politically tenuous exercise.
Affection for guns and hunting - and respect for the NRA, which spent $18.6 million in the 2012 campaign cycle, according to the Sunlight Foundation - was a theme throughout Wednesday's debate.
Several senators - including West Virginia Democrat Joe Manchin, who co-sponsored the background checks plan and often became emotional in praising the Newtown families - made a point of saying that they supported gun rights and had been proud to be in line with the NRA's pro-gun platform.
Four Republicans - Mark Kirk of Illinois, Susan Collins of Maine, John McCain of Arizona and Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania, Manchin's co-sponsor - backed the background checks plan.
But four Democrats from gun-friendly states - Max Baucus of Montana, Mark Begich of Alaska, Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota and Mark Pryor of Arkansas - rejected the background checks plan. Baucus, Begich and Pryor are up for re-election in 2014.
Some gun-control advocates predicted that the issue could become a leading concern in the 2016 presidential campaign.
"Voters will wake up in the morning to find that Senate hasn't passed background checks. They will have a long memory," said Josh Horwitz, executive director of the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence, a collection of 47 national organizations.
Horwitz said Republican senators in politically divided states such as New Hampshire, Ohio and North Carolina could see themselves at risk if they oppose more background checks.
"Mayor Bloomberg has the wherewithal to match NRA resources, which is a completely new phenomenon in the gun debate," said Matt Bennett of Third Way, a centrist Democratic organization that has been active in the gun debate.
Last month Bloomberg footed the bill for a $12 million ad campaign, which ran in 13 states and was aimed at pressuring lawmakers to support expanded background checks.
Gun-rights advocates acknowledge they have competition that is perhaps unprecedented, but they note that Bloomberg's millions didn't lead to Senate passage of the background checks plan. They note that while Newtown inspired the gun-control movement, it also boosted the NRA and its supporters.
Sales of guns and ammunition soared, fueled in part by fears that Obama's gun-control package would make both scarce. Stock prices of gun makers such as Smith & Wesson Holding Corp and Sturm, Ruger & Co dipped after Newtown, but now are near where they were before the shootings.
And although there has been a wave of new gun-control laws in states led by Democrats, several states led by Republicans have eased gun restrictions in the months since Newtown.
In a statement the NRA praised the Senate's action, saying that the measure would have "criminalized certain private transfers of firearms between honest citizens."
Some gun-control advocates said they feared that they had seen their best chance for change in 20 years pass. Others said they worried it would come again soon.
"I wish Newtown was our last mass shooting," said Daniel Webster, director of the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Policy and Research. "There are going to be more mass shootings. There are going to be more incidents where people will try to figure out what in the hell is wrong here."
(This version of the story corrects the senator's name to Mark Kirk from Ron Kirk in paragraph 23.)
Additional reporting by Edith Honan; Editing by David Lindsey and Lisa Shumaker


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The 27 HFC is a highly functional fishing machine, yet this boat can also shine on an entertaining cruise.
This article is a Boating Certified Boat test of a Sea Chaser 27 HFC, produced by the worlds foremost powerboat experts, the editors at Boating. Learn how fast this boat
BoatsBoaterz n Bikerz Wrap Up Epic 5-Day Hull of a Tour Adventure
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Amphibious DUKW Boat Tragedy and What Boaters Can Learn From It
This article details the lessons learned and the mistakes made aboard the DUKW boat that sank and killed many people in Branson Missouri. Learn how this tragedy might
How toNational Safe Boating Week May 18-24 2019
How to
Help Save Lives On The Water
Wear Your Lifejacket To Work Day 2019 is Friday May 17
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We take todays top after-market wakesurf shapers and see how they perform on a 1999 Malibu Sunsetter ski boat....
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Bomb Alarm Clock Promises Explosive Mornings [VIDEO]
We're all guilty of hitting the snooze button and sleeping a little bit longer in the morning. But with this alarm clock, if you don't wake up on time to defuse it, you're in for an explosive surprise.
The bomb alarm clock, designed by Nootropic Design, has four wires and a digital countdown clock. The proper wire must be cut within 10 seconds to stop the countdown and prevent catastrophe (or just some wild flashing lights that could irritate your sleepy eyes). The correct wire is different every time so it can't be memorized.
Want to start every morning like an action hero? The design isn't available yet, but Nootropic's site says it will be soon.
Watch a video of the clock in action:
[Nootropic Design via DVICE]


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I bought tickets for the Durham NC show for my 16 and 14 year old boys. He sold out the Durham Theater--had to buy resale tix. Definitely a younger crowd, lots of college kids. Me and a couple of other Dads were hanging around outside on our tablets, reading and whatnot.
What does ILF think of him? My guys love him, and I've got some mid-20s nephews and neices who love him too.
Personally, I think he's got some good songs but I kind of find his stuff boring. I don't know if it's the repetition? Lack of dynamics? Not sure what it is, but I just can't connect with it. Am I officially just a geezer now?


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May 26, 2017
Civil War Photo Album Fowler Merchant Families
This is one of my favourite CDVs (Cartes de Visite) from the Fowler Merchant Civil War era photo album in my personal collection. It was taken during the Civil War - if you look carefully you can see this young lady's snood - a netting worn over the hair at the back of the head. Her hair is carefully slicked down and parted in the center - another sign of 1860s women's hairstyles.
Her bolero jacket was also popular during this time. Also note the dropped shoulders, full sleeves narrowing at the wrist, and the full skirt, but loosely draped, not over a hoop.
The plain background and patterned floor are further clues to help date this photograph. You can see the full Fowler-Merchant Family Photo Album online at Lost Faces.
Surnames: Fowler, Merchant, Keach, Houghton, Lovejoy, Hewitt, Maloney, Tanner, Whitcomb, Sladden, Frazier, Comstock, Gray, Moseley, Center, Lee, Alexander, Fisher, Williams, Cottrell, Burgess
Locations: Cambridge New York, Connecticut, Washington DC
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Israel News - Stay Informed, Pray Informed
Apple Inc. has become recognized as the world's most innovative technology company in recent years. Yet, surprisingly, Apple pumps very little of its considerable revenue into research and development of new technology. But that is about to change as Apple expands to Israel with its first technology development center outside of its Cupertino, California headquarters.
In 2010, Apple spent a paltry $2.4 billion (only 2% of its annual revenue) on research and development. And all of that R&D took place at the company's headquarters. Apple has until now allowed only sales, marketing and support to be handled from outside its vaunted California headquarters. All technology-related work had to be done in-house, literally.
So, it is something of a badge of honor for the Israeli hi-tech scene that the Jewish state is the first place outside of Cupertino that Apple will be planting an R&D center.
Apple's Israel R&D center will be focusing on the development of semiconductors.
The news comes just days after reports that Apple is in advanced talks to buy Herzliya-based flash memory developer Anobit Ltd. It is being speculated that Anobit will be the new Apple R&D center, as flash memory technology is so important to Apple's main line of products, including the iPhone, iPad and Macbook Air.
Apple is far from the first major computer technology company to utilize Israel as a base for research and development. In fact, Apple is quite late to the party. For more than a decade Microsoft and Intel, to name just a couple, have maintained major R&D centers in Israel.
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Boned strapless, bow shaped, wrap front style corset. Features metallic gunmetal/ steel blue check fabric for a luxe look. Neck line peaks sharp and hemline peaks its lowest point just above waistline. Centre back exposed silver metal zipper for closure. Designed to be worn with the draw your swords skirt. M: 100% polyester | cold hand wash/dry clean only | made in prc runs true to size. Sizing in aus. Model wears size 8. Model is 5'10" (178cm) tall | 32" (81cm) bust | 24" (61cm) waist | 34" (86cm) hips.


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'Switched At Birth': Vanessa Marano Previews Bay & Ty's Intense Reunion
Will Ty's return crush any hope for a Bay-Emmett reunion? Vanessa gives HollywoodLife.com the scoop!
Switched At Birth returns with all-new episodes June 10, and if there's one word to describe Bay's upcoming relationship drama, it would definitely be "Love Is A Battlefield." Ty (Blair Redford) returns from the Army, and while Bay is happy to see him, Vanessa Marano tells HollywoodLife.com to expect major "complications."
"He's coming back from war, and usually when people are coming back from war — especially in this TV world in which we live — they're a little bit tougher than they were," she says. "[Bay and Ty] want to try to pick up where they left off, but they can't, because he doesn't want to burden her with all the emotions he's feeling."
Still, Vanessa's really excited to have Blair back on set.
"This was one of the great relationships of the series, especially for Bay," she says. "It was one of her first serious boyfriends. She almost gave her virginity to this guy; she really loves him!"
Exploring Bay & Emmett's Potential Future
Fans hoping to see Bay and Emmett (Sean Berdy) rekindle their romance in this new batch of episodes will probably be disappointed, as Ty's a pretty major roadblock in that process.
"Ty came before Emmett, so Emmett better be freaking out," Vanessa tells me. "If anyone could give Emmett a run for his money, it's Ty."
That said, we will get some pretty epic Bay-Emmett scenes in a future episode that takes place in an alternate reality.
"We have a 'what if' episode coming up where we see what would have happened if Regina had told the Kennishes about the switch right away," Vanessa reveals. "We explore Bay and Emmett's relationship through that — like, what would have happened if the hadn't met through Daphne?"
HollywoodLifers, are you happy to have Ty back in the fold, or are you still holding out hope for Bay and Emmett to reunite? Drop a comment with your thoughts and predictions below!
— Andy Swift
Follow @AndySwift


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Apply for Financial Aid
At Mines, our awarding policy gives priority to the neediest students, as determined by the FAFSA. Last academic year over $27.9 million of financial assistance was awarded. Typically more than 85% of the student body receives some form of aid, which includes scholarships, grants, loans or work study employment.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) - New and Renewal for 2017-2018
The FAFSA determines your eligibility for grants, loans, work study, and need-based scholarships. For full financial consideration your FAFSA must be on file in our office by the respective priority deadlines shown below. The FAFSA form for an upcoming academic year is currently available at FAFSA.gov.
NOTE: You will need to file the FAFSA every year to be considered for financial aid.
Freshman/Transfer students:
We must receive a complete, processed FAFSA in our office no later than March 1, 2017 for priority consideration for the 2017-2018 school year. Filing your FAFSA by February 15th should provide our office with the results by our priority deadline.
Returning students:
We must receive a complete, processed FAFSA in our office no later than April 1, 2017 for priority consideration for the 2017-2018 school year. Filing your FAFSA by March 15th should provide our office with the results by our priority deadline.
Step 1
- One parent and the student should apply for a FSA ID so the student's FAFSA can be "signed" electronically.
- After October 1, 2016, file the FAFSA or renewal FAFSA online at FAFSA on the Web. It is typically processed within 3-5 business days. If your taxes have not been completed, estimate your income to meet our priority deadline dates.
- List Colorado School of Mines' school code (001348) in the 'School Section' of FAFSA on the Web so we receive your data electronically.
Step 2
- You will receive an email notification from the Department of Education confirming that your FAFSA has been processed. Please be sure to read the entire email as the errors will appear toward the end. These errors may delay the processing of your financial aid award. Please contact our office if you have any questions.
Step 3
Freshman/Transfer students:
By mid-March you will receive your financial aid award letter if your FAFSA was filed by the priority deadline. The award letter notifies you of the types and amounts of financial aid you are eligible to receive at Mines. Instructions on how to accept or decline your financial aid, along with instructions on how to apply for loans, will be sent in early June.
- Returning students:
By late-May you will be able to access your Trailhead account and review the types and amounts of financial aid you are eligible to receive for the upcoming academic year. If student loans are included with your financial aid package you will be able to accept, decline, or reduce the amounts through your Trailhead account.
Step 4
- Be sure to pay attention to information received by the Financial Aid Office, especially from firstname.lastname@example.com. Emails will be sent to the student's Mines email account if additional documentation is required.


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PORT MORRIS — For two blissful years, Edward Jahn and a roommate paid a combined $1,850 per month for more than 1,600 square-feet of brick-walled, wood-beamed loft space, complete with six windows overlooking the Harlem River and off-street parking.
True, the loft was an illegal conversion inside 2407 Third Ave., an old industrial building in the shadow of the Third Avenue Bridge, but Jahn said several of his artist neighbors had long lived in their units incident-free.
But then, last year, this renter's paradise collided with reality.
After a dispute over a rent increase, the landlord told Jahn he would not renew his lease. Suddenly, Jahn realized that his commercial lease offered him few of the protections granted to residential tenants.
His one hope, he decided, was to apply for coverage under the Loft Law, a state statute that legally converts lived-in commercial or manufacturing buildings into residential ones. Qualifying lofts gain rent stabilization and must be brought up to code.
Soon after Jahn filed the Loft Law application in August, his landlord, James Giddings, sued him for unpaid rent, which Jahn had decided to withhold on the grounds that a commercial landlord cannot collect residential rent. (Giddings said he never permitted Jahn to live in his loft or knew that he was doing so.)
Not only did Jahn's neighbors decline to sign onto his Loft Law application, but 10 current tenants submitted affidavits with Giddings' lawsuit stating that they work but don't live in their units.
Now, Jahn hopes to convince the court that other tenants do live in the building and that, because of this, it qualifies for the protections of the Loft Law.
If he succeeds, experts believe this will be the first Bronx building to covert under the law, which could spur other illegal loft-dwellers in this and other evolving Bronx neighborhoods to follow suit.
"This is the first sign of a neighborhood rising up," said Jahn, 38. "This isn't the Wild West anymore. We want to live in a place with fire safety and rights."
In the late 1990s, zoning changes allowed for new uses of former manufacturing buildings in Port Morris.
In 1999, Giddings, a real estate investor who also runs a fine-art storage and delivery company, bought the redbrick building at 2407 Third Avenue for $200,000. He also invested in a building across the street, which became the Bruckner Bar and Grill.
Before long, artists and other open-minded renters began to venture down to the gritty waterfront neighborhood and into its empty lofts.
Jahn, an IT specialist and freelance media producer, first moved into the Third Avenue building in 2009 and crashed on the floor of a subletter's loft. That unit was fully residential, Jahn said, with its own kitchen, bathroom and bedroom.
A month later, he and a friend moved into a similar unit next door, which was outfitted with a shower and large outlets presumably for kitchen appliances, Jahn said.
When he signed the commercial lease, adding the name of a company he ran at the time, Jahn informed the landlord that he intended to live in the loft, he said.
"The conversation could not have been clearer," Jahn said. "I told them I was going to live here."
Last June, after Jahn had lived in the space for about two-and-a-half years, Giddings' office manager notified Jahn that a prior rent discount had expired. He now owed $2,200 per month, plus the balance from previous months when the discount did not apply.
Jahn contested the increase until, in July, Giddings sent him a curt email.
"I don't wish to renew the lease with a tenant who requires this much time and attention," it read in part. "I don't want to argue about it, and I want the unit back at the end of the lease period."
The next month, Jahn applied for Loft Law coverage.
The original 1982 statute, which focused mainly on illegal lofts in Lower Manhattan, was expanded in 2010 to include more recently inhabited buildings.
To qualify now, tenants must have been living in at least three units in a commercial building for 12 consecutive months in 2008 or 2009.
While Jahn's Loft Law application and Giddings' unpaid rent lawsuit are being considered by different courts, both hinge on the same question — whether people live at 2407 Third Avenue.
Of the 10 current tenants who signed affidavits claiming not to live in the building, only one responded to phone or email messages.
Larry Kleiman, president of Spectral Masters Inc., a graphics and printing company in the building, said he only uses his loft for work and that he assumes other tenants do the same.
"This is a commercial building," he said. "I don't know who does what. To the best of my knowledge, everyone has a commercial lease."
Giddings declined an interview request.
His office manager, Rosa Garcia, stated in an affidavit that the landlord has a strict commercial-use-only rule for tenants and that Jahn never informed her or the landlord of his residential plans.
Jahn's former roommate and business partner, Max Horbar, said in an affidavit that the loft was a "raw" space with no kitchen or bedrooms before they arrived and renovated it behind the landlord's back.
"The unit was not set up for living," Horbar stated, "and the landlord had no knowledge we would live there."
But Jahn and two people who filed affidavits on his behalf paint an entirely different portrait of the building.
Luis Rosado, a Port Morris artist, stated in his affidavit that Giddings initially tried to keep the lofts commercial-only, but over time he allowed several artists to renovate and move into their studios.
Rosado said he often visited friends who lived in the building and even stayed overnight "a couple of times."
Alex Abeles, the co-owner of the Bruckner Bar and Grill who is involved in a separate legal dispute with Giddings, named other people who claimed in the affidavits to be commercial-only tenants, but who he observed living in their units.
With the help of his attorney, Jahn has produced phone directories and voting registrations that they say show several tenants used their lofts as a home address.
One person who lives near the building said it is commonly perceived by locals as both a workplace and home.
"The neighborhood is very aware that there are live-work lofts there," said the person, who asked not to be named.
Jahn and his supporters suggest that the tenants who they say live in the building could have been pressured by the landlord to sign the affidavits — which Giddings denied in court — or may not want to jeopardize their live-work arrangement.
"There's an unwritten agreement between everybody to keep it on the down-low," said Philip Shearer, Jahn's current roommate.
The rent case is pending in the commercial part of the Bronx housing court. Jahn's lawyer has asked for a stay of that case while a separate administrative judge considers the Loft Law application.
Meanwhile, Jahn began in December depositing his monthly rent into Giddings' lawyer's escrow account. He has already paid about $10,000 in legal fees, he said.
Should Jahn win Loft Law coverage, other tenants living in illegal Bronx conversions may be inspired to apply for the same protections, said Gordon Woodhull, founder of the advocacy group, New York City Loft Tenants.
"If [Jahn] prevails in this, I think a lot of other people will want to get in on this," he said. "Right now, they really have no rights at all."