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A Tale of Two Competitors' Responses to the Dell Buyout
Dell's $24.4 billion deal to take itself private has prompted two of its biggest competitors to make completely different public statements.
While Hewlett-Packard openly said Dell "has a very tough road ahead" and vowed to take customers away from the U.S. peer Lenovo Group took a polite, diplomatic stance, saying that Dell's move won't distract the Chinese company from executing its own strategy.
The Dell buyout includes a $2 billion cash infusion from Microsoft, which raises questions about whether the deal could affect the U.S. software giant's relationship with other PC makers. Neither HP nor Lenovo discussed Microsoft's involvement in the Dell deal in their statements.
HP, however, didn't hesitate to provide its own perspective on the deal, saying Dell "faces an extended period of uncertainty and transition" that won't be good for its customers. "With a significant debt load, Dell's ability to invest in new products and services will be extremely limited," HP said in its statement. "We believe Dell's customers will now be eager to explore alternatives, and HP plans to take full advantage of that opportunity."
Lenovo, in its statement on the Dell deal, said that "the financial actions of some of our traditional competitors will not substantially change our outlook." Still, the statement – which Lenovo offered as its comment on Dell's announcement -- didn't even contain the word "Dell" in the text. "Our strategy is clear, our financial position is healthy and our business is very strong -- so we are focused on our products, customers and overall execution rather than distracting financial maneuvers and major strategic shifts."
The statements from HP and Lenovo may also reflect their different positions in the PC market: While HP has been scrambling to redesign its strategy amid sluggish global demand for PCs, Lenovo has enjoyed growth in sales and profits thanks to its strength in China and emerging markets.
Since buying International Business Machines Corp.'s PC business in 2005, Lenovo has grown fast and overtaken Dell in the PC market. Lenovo, the world's second-largest PC vendor, is now only slightly behind market leader HP. Despite the weak worldwide PC demand in recent years amid the popularity of tablets and smartphones among consumers, Lenovo has managed to take market share from competitors while building a profitable PC business.
For the quarter through December, Lenovo's net profit rose 34% to $204.9 million from $153.5 million a year earlier. In the same quarter, Lenovo's PC shipments rose 8.2% from a year earlier, according to IDC, while HP's fell 0.6% and Dell's tumbled 21%.
Related: David Benoit joins Markets Hub to talk Dell and H-P and the future of the PC world.
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Friday, October 29, 2010
Live Blogging Friday At Talladega On SPEED
This day is always one that real race fans cherish. Both the Camping World Trucks and the Sprint Cup Series cars are going to be on the track at full speed racing in packs and checking out their equipment. It makes for good TV.
The full TV schedule is listed on the left side of the page. It starts at 10AM ET and runs through the end of Trackside at 8PM. Along the way, ESPN2 sneaks-in an episode of NASCAR Now at 5PM.
Everything else is on SPEED and this is a day of coverage that really shows what a fulltime NASCAR TV network could do. Friday through Sunday there are so many stories, so many possible show topics and such a wonderful flavor at the racetracks that the current TV package just does not do it justice.
On a day like Friday, when SPEED is just fulltime NASCAR and viewers are just along for the ride really is the type of coverage that can help get the sport back on the right track. Putting this coverage online for free would expand the audience even further and let any laptop or iPad tag along.
Mike Joy is handling the Cup Series, Rick Allen is calling the trucks and Krista Voda is hosting Trackside. It should be a fun day of TV on SPEED
Please feel free to post your TV-related comments on any of the Talladega programming throughout the day. This is a family-friendly website, so please keep that in mind when posting. Thanks for stopping by The Daly Planet.
12 comments:
- Anonymous said...
Happy Race Day Planeteers <3
Early early early and all day <3
- October 29, 2010 at 9:43 AM
- red said...
hey jd! wasn't really paying a whole lot of attention as we're moving this weekend and i'm packing the endless books (!) but did i hear the booth say that truck qualifying will be multiple trucks on the track at the same time?
- October 29, 2010 at 10:54 AM
- Lisa Hogan said...
Hello to everyone!
Good luck on your move, red.
Love having Fridays off! :)
So happy to have everything on SPEED today.
- October 29, 2010 at 11:59 AM
- red said...
thanks, lisa! youngest knows we're moving but not where or when so i'm keeping it quiet & off twitter until we're completely moved in on unday.
despain history on 'dega is terrific! great stories from some of those involved, wonderful B&W stills, awesome images! props to speed & despain!
- October 29, 2010 at 1:11 PM
- GinaV24 said...
Hi, everyone! Won't be on here much until I get home from work. Looking forward to the truck race.
I'll have to catch up when I get home.
- October 29, 2010 at 2:27 PM
- Anonymous said...
oops forgot the Weekend part on my post earlier...*giggles*
Yes Ms. Red! That was a great segment! Dave does a great job with those shows!
I missed that you were moving! Hopefully not too far away! <3 And yes that's what the boyz said they're doing the multiple Pick 'em Ups at a time
- October 29, 2010 at 3:23 PM
- Roland said...
Solid day so far for Speed. Wish they woulda showed the first few laps of practice instead of showing the booth and full screen replays of last years wreck. Lets see some cars on the track! But other than that Speed did great.
- October 29, 2010 at 5:09 PM
- OSBORNK said...
Watching the truck qualifying. The booth monkeys just made a brilliant statement. "Two trucks qualifying at the same time almost makes the qualifying go twice as fast".
- October 29, 2010 at 5:54 PM
- Chadderbox said...
Just watched my DVR recordings of today's activities. Mostly I watched the 3 Nascar Live episodes to catch up on what happened during the practices. I think Speed always does a solid job with the Friday Activities.
There doesn't seem to be any news on the RPM situation, just a lot of uncertainty.
I am really looking forward to this weekends race because its so unpredictable. Also I am thinking ESPN will do a better job of coverage on this big track. Keeping my fingers crossed ESPN does not butcher this race!
- October 29, 2010 at 8:56 PM
- Anonymous said...
wonder what last place pays? seems risky for a start and park to try to race the whole race given the chances of wiping out the entire car. I suppose they have calculated it all out the gain vs. the pain.
- October 29, 2010 at 10:21 PM
- RPM said...
John, I hate to call you out, but you are falling down on the job by not reporting on Showtime's Inside NASCAR. I know there's a lot of negative feelings about the show, but it's legit even if you have to pay for it.
The uncensored race recaps are groundbreaking. This is exactly what the fans want, "Race in 60" recaps with completely uncensored audio. Unfortunately, you have to be a paying subscriber to get it.
It's a legit media outlet.
On a related note, if NASCAR wants to branch out and expand their base, they don't need to be teaming with NBC on a lame scripted soap. They need to be teaming with TNT and the producers of "Men of a Certain Age" for something more edgy.
- October 30, 2010 at 7:42 AM
- Anonymous said...
happy halloween
i love talladega if you can hold your breath that long..\
l read in jayskis that its a sad day in nascar the loss of Jim Hunter....
keep in your prayers a man sorely
missed in the nascar family and community and the media.
- October 30, 2010 at 9:58 AM

subset: commoncrawl


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Introduction to the Legacy Classic HD Speakers
The e-mail came in one afternoon – "Mr. Clements, would you be interested in reviewing Legacy's newest towers." Are you kidding? Of course I would be interested in reviewing a pair of Legacy's speakers. I mean, Legacy is one of the modern era's great speaker companies. Everything I've heard that has come from Legacy was nothing short of impressive on so many levels.
Classic HD Towers
- Design: 4 Driver, 3-Way, Bass Reflex
- >MFR: 32–30,000 Hz ±2dB
- Tweeter: 1″ Dual Pole Neo Ribbon, Folded Kapton Diaphragm
- Midrange: 7″ Rohacell Reinforced-Silver Graphite, Cast Frame
- Woofer: 2 ~ 8″ Rohacell Reinforced-Silver Graphite, Cast Frame
- Woofer Loading: B-6
- Crossover Frequencies: 450Hz, 4kHz
- Sensitivity: 94 dB/2.83 volts (In-Room)
- Impedance: 4 Ohm
- Recommended Amplifier Power: 25 ? 300 Watts
- Inputs: 2 Pair Custom 5-way Binding Posts
- Weight: 110 lbs. each
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 44″ × 10.75″ × 13″
- MSRP: $4,150/pair (Standard Finishes)
Metro Subwoofer
- Design: Passive radiator
- Loading: 6th Order
- Active Driver: Aura 12″ Spun Aluminum with Encapsulated Neo Motor
- Subsonic Radiator: Down-Firing 15″
- Internal Amplifier: 500 W, Class D
- MFR: 20 – 150 Hz
- Inputs: 2 RCA, 1 pair high level
- Shipping Weight: 68 lbs
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 16″ × 16″ × 16″
- MSRP: $1,495/ea (Standard Finishes)
- Legacy Audio
- SECRETS TAGS: Floorstanding Speakers, Speakers, Subwoofers, Legacy, Audio
The speakers in question are the Classic HD's. These 3-way, 4-driver speakers are the next to smallest tower in Legacy's lineup and they are competitively priced; starting at only $4,150/pair. As if that wouldn't make me entirely satisfied, Legacy decided to include the new Metro HD sub. This is 16″ cube powers its 12″ active driver and 15″ passive radiator with a 500 watt Class A/B amp. You can pick up this little powerhouse at a base price of just $1,495 each.
Take a look at my review and test results to find out why I found this 2.1 system was easy to live with.
Legacy Classic HD Speaker Design
The Legacy Classic HD towers are a 3-way 4-driver design based on Legacy's Neo Ribbon tweeter along with a trio of Rohacell® reinforced carbon fiber cone drivers.
Rohacell® is a high strength closed cell foam that is used to make light weight structural components predominantly in the aerospace, automotive and medical technology industries. In my estimation, it is a true high tech material even though it has been around for more than 30 years! It is light weight, stiff and easy to fabricate. Legacy uses it to reinforce the cones in the Classic HD's. In this particular instance, a diaphragm of silver carbon weave is fused to a Rohacell backer. Meanwhile, the tweeter's diaphragm is also formed from a material common to the aerospace industry – Kapton.
So what you have in the Classic HD's is a high end folded ribbon tweeter mated to a 7″ lightweight cone midrange with a cast basket. The tweeter and midrange are mounted very close together near the top of the enclosure. These two drivers are underpinned by a pair of similarly light and responsive 8″ cones in a bass reflex enclosure that is ported on the back.
The finish on the pair I got in for review was what Legacy calls a black finish. It's not black. Instead, this extremely glossy finish has imbedded silver sparkles. It reminds me of the finish they used to put on the Corvette Stingrays of the '70's. Remember that?
The cabinet is MDF with interlocking joinery that is covered in one of three absolutely stunning finishes – two real wood choices and the groovy black and silver speckle finish on my review samples. In Legacy's words, "The exquisite finish is hand-rubbed several times to assure a patina at home with the most elegant decor." This cabinet is tuned with two alarmingly small (B6) rear-firing ports.
The input cup also exudes class with two pairs of custom binding posts with pure copper straps for single cable installations or bi wire/biamping when removed. Also included is a pair of heavy duty toggle switches on the terminal plate. These offer the choice between flat response or the option to attenuate the bass and/or treble by 2 db by flipping the switches.
Legacy also sent along their new, compact subwoofer – the Metro. I call it compact because it is the smallest sub Legacy offers. But don't be fooled into thinking this is among the super compact category of subs. To be sure, Legacy's idea of a compact sub is much different than those produced by a mass market company.
The Metro sub is a 16″ cube that has a front-firing 12″ active driver and a down-firing 15″ passive radiator. It is driven by a 500 watt amp that Legacy says puts out 500 "real" watts. The amp has unbalanced stereo line ins and outs, a balanced LFE input and speaker level inputs. The crossover is continuously variable from 40 – 200 Hz. There is no crossover defeat switch. It also has a continuously variable phase control from 0° to -180° and a nice power cord.
All three of these speakers are especially well made and they come with a 7-year warranty but I bet they will last a lifetime. In addition to the 7-year warranty, Legacy also offers a satisfaction guarantee. Here it is described in their own words, "A great deal of forethought, love and satisfaction is instilled in each piece of Legacy workmanship. We take pride in getting to know many of our customers on a first name basis. Your purchase of this product is backed by the renowned Legacy Satisfaction Guarantee". It's hard to sniff at that kind of commitment.
Legacy Classic HD Speaker Setup
The Classic HD's were well packaged and even though they tip the scales at over 100 pounds each, I was able to unbox them and wrangle them into position without too much assistance. They are sold in fully assembled matched pairs. The installed feet are large rubber feet that can be fitted with included cones for carpeted floors.
I placed the mains about 10′ apart and 10′ from the primary listening position. Legacy has optimized these speakers to sound their best at 5° to 15 ° off-axis so I toed them in (angled them towards the listening position) just enough so I they were firing a little off-axis at the seating position.
I started out driving the Classic HD's with a 200 wpc stereo amp and liked what I heard, but I knew the speakers could handle a lot more juice. So I went ahead and vertically bi-amped them with a pair of 200 wpc stereo amps. The payoff was more headroom, a more relaxed presentation and gobs of output capacity. I played with the contour toggles, but decided that I preferred to keep them in the "flat" position.
The Legacy manual discusses the importance of keeping speaker cable resistance to a minimum. I used 8′ long 12-gauge cables while evaluating the Classic HD's. Here is another key excerpt from the manual, "extensive measures have been taken to ensure that each Legacy speaker system represents a smooth, non-reactive load to virtually any amplifier. The amplifier should be able to CONTROL the loudspeakers across the entire music spectrum. This means that parameters such as damping factor . . . and dynamic headroom should not be overlooked when comparing amplifiers."
I placed the Metro HD sub in the left front corner of my room. I connected it with a pair of LR line level inputs that were split off from the pre amp. The main channels were being run full-range and I wanted the Metro sub to just fill in the lowest registers. After some experimentation with the controls, I wound up with the crossover set to 40 Hz, the gain was set to 11 o'clock and the phase control stayed on 0°.
These speakers sounded nice right out of the box. I still broke them in for more than 50 hours before starting my serious evaluation sessions.
Legacy Classic HD Speakers In Use
The British pop duo Katie White and Jules de Martino are the group known as the Ting Tings. They released their second album in February 2012. I started my evaluation of the Legacy speaker system by listening to the album on vinyl. This album, which is supposed to represent the Ting Tings' departure from a pop career arc, was generally panned by critics. And, sure it is sophomoric (pun) for sure, but I get it. It is a fun record that I enjoy a bunch. What's really wrong with having a little fun?
The Legacy system has excellent top to bottom balance with one of the sweetest sounding tweeters you will ever hear. Meanwhile, the speakers produced shapely bass pulses and a tight bass drum kick. Take the track "Hang it Up" for example. The sound had a wholeness to it with well integrated sounds and an appropriate image size. The speaker system sorted out all the instruments. The treble shone and there was a tuneful pace on bass lines. I loved the way the Legacy system preserved the timbre of the percussion instruments. It is hard to beat high quality full range towers for music playback.
One of the hallmarks of these and other Legacy speakers is that they can be enjoyed for long sessions without listening fatigue. It was so true in this situation that I cranked up the volume a little more than I might with other speakers. Then the track "Help" came up and the steel strings here floated in space until the synthesizer kicked in and levitated my listening seat.
This RCA Living Stereo SACD contains the most popular compositions by George Gershwin. The performances were recorded in 1959 and 1960 and were performed by the Boston Pops, conducted by Arthur Fiedler. The headline works are Rhapsody in Blue and An American in Paris.
As mentioned above, the Legacy Classic HD's get the scale right on just about everything. With these recordings, there was a very broad soundstage and no hole in the middle. Add to that how the Metro sub revealed the extent of the performance hall. I also felt that the Legacy Classic HD's did an amazing job differentiating direct versus reflected sounds on Earl Wild's piano. This effect further advanced the keen perception of space that I got: I say you simply don't need a surround system.
These speakers are smooooth but still dynamic. This is difficult for me to describe – the Classic HD's are sweet but they aren't sugary-sounding, just clean and extended.
On Concerto in F Allegro, the music simply breathed with lifelike tonal textures. Then on Adagio, Andante Con Moto, I heard nearly zero dynamic compression during crescendos. These speakers never flinched, never faltered and could easily fill a much larger room than mine. I don't think I ever really taxed the Classic HD's at any point during the extended review period.
On American in Paris, I decided that these speakers really come into their own on orchestral works because of the wholeness of their sound and the ability to reproduce the scale of a performance.
I would like to write about my impressions of the Legacy system when watching a nice Blu-ray. John Carter is a movie that I didn't catch in theaters and I'm not sure why not. A lot of people are probably like me on this count because this movie bombed at the box office. The critical reviews were mixed so I thought I might enjoy it. Might.
Like I've said before, a good 2-channel system built around speakers with quality imaging properties along with the phasing inherent in the source material means that you don't really need a surround system to feel like you are part of the action. That certainly held true with John Carter over the Legacy Classic HD/Metro system.
The Legacy system produced tight, meaty bass on the majestic score and had fine bass slam on the action sequences. The voices were pure with clean sibilants and no chestiness. Again, I had no listening fatigue, despite the extended treble response.
Although I wasn't particularly fond of the movie, I must admit that starting from the arena scene all the way through to the end, this disc has excellent demo-worthy material. The high action sequences had superior sound quality and I enjoyed their full impact through the Legacy system. Once again, these speakers never flinched.
I had the Legacy Classic HD speakers in my system when watching the initial "Rock Concert" of the 2012 London Olympics Closing Ceremonies. This was lossy Dolby Digital that was down mixed to stereo in my TiVo box. What I was trying to evaluate here was the suitability of the Legacy system to be a multipurpose speaker system for day to day use. The result? Of course they are. In fact, it might be akin to fishing with dynamite.
All I can say is that the sound was stupendous over the Legacy system. This was big arena sound that was properly supported by the Metro sub. Thanks to this performance, I am now a fan of Jessie J. Man, she can really belt it out. If you don't believe me, listen to her cover of "We Will Rock You" and see for yourself. Her voice was as pristine as could be over the Classic HD's.
The orchestra during the flame/flag ceremony was also very majestic through the Legacy system. There was so much quality music in this concert like the Pink Floyd and Beatles medleys. It all sounded so good over the Classic HD's, I even fell for the Spice Girls. Oops, did I say that out loud?
Legacy Classic HD Speakers On The Bench
All the below measurements shown are in-room response. The frequency response tests were performed at 1-meter, the distortion measurements were on-axis near field measurements.
The on-axis response of the Legacy Classic HD's shows an exceptionally flat spectrum from 35 Hz to 20 kHz. There are some room-induced fluctuations in the bass below 200 Hz.
At 30 degrees off-axis, the Classic HD's had a response curve that was expectedly not as smooth as the on-axis test, but it still has flat treble past 16 kHz. The bass showed a little more unevenness on this test as well.
The THD at 1 kHz and 95 db was 0.33%, with the first harmonic more than 50 db below the test signal.
At 500 Hz and 95 db, the THD measurement is an inaudible 0.14%. This is a very clean test plot.
The Classic HD's had just 0.12% THD at 5kHz and 95 db.
At 10 kHz and 90 db, the distortion was amazingly low at just 0.16%. These tweeters are sweet and extended and the low distortion is probably one reason the Classic HD's could be enjoyed for hours without fatigue setting in.
I tested the Classic HD's at 95 db and 40Hz to verify their output near the cabinet's tuning frequency. This is another clean test plot with just 2.70% THD; very good response characteristics for a pair of passive 8″ drivers.
The Metro sub has a 6th order alignment and so the response drops off quickly below its tuning frequency – probably a big part of the subjectively tight bass response. The upper useable limit is over 150 Hz.
At 100 Hz and 95 db, the distortion was amazingly low for a sub – 0.15%.
The sub stayed clean at 80 Hz with just 0.15% THD at 95 db at 80 Hz.
Here you see that the sub hit 8.7% THD at 90 db when tested at 24 Hz. This is a good test result for a compact sub.
Conclusions about the Legacy Classic HD Speakers
I'm sure you can tell from reading through this review that I completely fell in love with the intoxicating sound of Legacy's Classic HD speakers. I loved the smooth treble and the transparent midrange supported by tight, clean and full bass. The Classic HD's had an uncanny ability of getting the scale right with everything I put through them both large and small – from a solo a capella singer to a massive orchestra in a large hall, I just about always felt in the moment.
The only quibble I might have would be that the bass didn't quite extend down to the netherest regions of the infrasonic band as you would get with one of Legacy's larger subs. But if you love music and want speakers that offer excellent performance with a wide array of material without editorializing the sound, then you should really give these Legacy speakers a listen. They are very reasonably priced, and made in America with love.


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"Deadpool 2"
3.5 out of 5 Stars
Director: David Leitch
Writers: Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, Ryan Reynolds, Rob Liefeld (characters), Fabian Nicieza (characters)
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Josh Brolin, Morena Baccarin
Genre: Action, comedy
Rated: R for strong violence and language throughout, sexual references and brief drug material
SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) - Synopsis: When a soldier from the future travels back in time to kill the mutant responsible for the death of his family, Deadpool discovers his maternal instinct and vows to protect the young man come hell or high water.
Review: Once upon a time, Twentieth Century Fox didn't think much of Deadpool. It completely botched the character in "X-Men Origins: Wolverine" and was more than a little reluctant to give the wisecracking mutant a film of his own. Were it not for the persistence of Ryan Reynolds and the support of Deadpool's fans, Fox would have never made 2016's "Deadpool." It also wouldn't have made $783 million at the worldwide box office.
Considering the success of the original film, "Deadpool 2" was inevitable. Whereas the first film had something to prove, the sequel loses the chip from its shoulder and substitutes it with a more jovial approach. It's still vulgar, violent and an oddity when compared to the majority of other comic book films, but like "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" it suffers from a sense of familiarity. I wouldn't go as far as to say that "Deadpool 2" is formulaic, but it does feel more predictable.
Julian Dennison, who impressed in Taika Waititi's "Hunt for the Wilderpeople" stars as Russell, the teen who is targeted by Cable (Josh Brolin), a time-traveling soldier who comes to the past to protect his family in the future.
To save the boy, Deadpool recruits a team of oddballs and outcasts including Domino (Zazie Beetz), Zeitgeist (Bill Skarsgard), Bedlam (Terry Crews) and Peter (Rob Delaney). Beetz's performance is nothing short of fantastic as Domino gives the film a certain swagger and manages to out-sass Deadpool. We also see the return of Negasonic Teenage Warhead (Brianna Hildebrand), Colossus (voiced by Stefan Kapicic) and cabdriver Dopinder (Karan Soni). Colossus and Dopinder get plenty of scenes, but Negasonic Teenage Warhead feels underutilized.
The film feels somewhat confined as it relies on, rather that rallies against, genre tropes. There are a few surprises, particularly when it comes to a few cameos, and enough laughs to keep most audiences distracted, but it just doesn't feel as reckless as I had hoped it would be.
"Deadpool 2" is a good, but not revolutionary film. The jokes just aren't as sharp the second time around. Fans will still eat it up like it's Taco Tuesday, but I don't see the movie being the massive cultural touchstone that the original was.


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text: A Night for Heroes 2013: Nothing's going to break his stride Published: February 18, 2013 Category: Anesthesiology, Bone & Joint Institute, Medicine, Neuroscience Institute, Neurosurgery, Orthopaedic Surgery & Rehabilitation, Pathology, Radiology, Surgery, TraumaOne When Sam Bellett woke up that dark summer morning, his future couldn't have been much brighter. He had just turned 16 and was a week away from starting his junior year in a rigorous academic program at Mandarin High School. He had recently earned a spot on the cross-country team and was on his way to becoming an Eagle Scout, the highest rank in Boy Scouts. At about 6:15 a.m. Aug. 18, 201... [More] Tagged as: A Night for Heroes, Acute Care Surgery, Dr. Joseph Tepas Tweet Clay County boy is alive thanks to mother's intuition and TraumaOne Published: February 6, 2012 Category: Surgery, TraumaOne Jacob Fulford is living proof of the power of a mother's intuition. After falling off his bike, the 12-year-old Clay County boy was cleared at the scene, but his mother Peggy knew something wasn't right. After taking him to a hospital in Orange Park, Jacob was air lifted to TraumaOne at Shands Jacksonville and treated in the hospital twice for a traumatic brain injury. If she had let him sleep through the night, he might not be here today. [More] Tagged as: Jacob Fulford, A Night for Heroes, Dr. Joseph Tepas, Pediatric Surgery, Acute Care Surgery Tweet TraumaOne saves girl after ATV accident Published: January 28, 2011 Category: Surgery, TraumaOne It was late in the evening on Father's Day 2009 when Larry and Sharon Davis got the call every parent fears—their 21-year-old daughter, Ashley, had been in a terrible accident and was being flown to the trauma center at Shands Jacksonville with life-threatening injuries. [More] Tagged as: Ashley Davis, Amy Klucher, Acute Care Surgery, ATV, A Night for Heroes, Dr. J. Bracken Burns Tweet


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AfriGeneas Books~Authors~Reviews Forum
Black Minqua The Life and Times of Henry Green
Black Minqua is the story of a community of Free Blacks who settled in an area now known as the Welsh Mountains. Over generations the inhabitants of the Mountains were isolated from those in the surrounding Valley. The settlement of People of Color was looked on with disdain by the surrounding community of whites. The settlement started in the late 1600's when Thomas Green I purchased land in the Pequea Valley from Benjamin Franklin. The Land was Warranted Land passed out to those willing to clear and settle in the Valley. Over 16,000 acres were set aside for Natives in the area. It is believed that the Greens were some of the Natives who received Land. Henry Green left his footprint in history when he participated in a revolt called the, Christiana Resistance and in the Civil War. Left out of the History of this region is that the Mountains were a passage on the Underground Railroad. Part of the secrecy and distrust of outsiders is that many slaves passed through and settled there.
In 1790 Thomas Green II was described by a white reporter as a Burly Negro and the head of Green's Banditti. Over the generations the inhabitants of the Mountains were described as lawless and shiftless. Throughout the years the community on the Mountains left for better opportunities and to participate in events such as the Civil War. They continued to pay tribute to the mountains and those left behind. This book is a memorial to those people whose land and history is now threatened with extinction.


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Paige Sanford '11
"After graduating from Washington College in May 2012, I was hired to work for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, a non-profit based out of Annapolis. I lived all summer on Great Fox Island, hosting school groups for 3 days and 2 nights at a time, using experiential learning to teach them about the Chesapeake Bay and the life and culture that it provides. At the end of the summer I was offered a permanent position with the foundation and have been living on Tangier teaching school groups ever since. The stem of my interest in the bay began on the Potomac River as a kid, but in the fall of 2010 I began the Chesapeake Semester at Washington College, which peaked an interest that got me to where I am today. Throughout the semester we met somewhere around 80 people that are involved in the bay, raising challenging questions for others and ourselves. At the completion of the semester I didn't want it to end, and therefore pursued a job with the Chesapeake Bay following graduation. Without the Chesapeake Semester, I surely would not have the job that I currently have. I have realized since graduation how much the knowledge that I gained has helped me and given me the opportunity to learn more. Not only has the knowledge and the facts about the bay been useful, but the Chesapeake Semester gave me the confidence to talk to locals and ask people questions on my own, making many new relationships."


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The CWC Volleyball team was on the road last week and was unable to take down the Lady Indians of Johnston City.
The CWC Volleyball team was on the road last week and was unable to take down the Lady Indians of Johnston City.
Johnston City defeated CWC, 23-25, 25-17, 25-18.
Scoring for CWC were Emma Bachman with 10 points, an ace, two digs and four kills, Briley Attebury with two points, an assist, four digs and six kills, Kelsey Rogers with three points, two assists, eight digs and two blocks, Bailey Winters with two points, six assists and seven digs, Briley Tolley with a point, an ace, seven digs, a kill and a block, Cammie Francis with eight points, two assists, five digs and a kill, Jobeth Blake with an assist, Bailey Bratcher with 14 digs, Jerrica Money with a dig and Sydney Clark with six kills and three blocks.
The junior varsity team won their match, 25-6, 25-20.
Scoring for the junior varsity team were Peighton Parks with 13 points, seven aces, two assists and five digs, Chaselyn Craig with a point and six digs, Paige Winter with seven points, an ace, three digs and a kill, Brooke Buchanan with nine points, four aces, an assist, five digs and two kills, Jessica Woods with four points, two aces, two assists, a dig and two kills, Haylea Chappelle with a dig, six kills and four blocks and Laura Potter with four digs, a kill and a block.
The team will compete at home again for the first time in two weeks tomorrow night against Hamilton Co.


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Find a ReelBait ® Dealer in Your AreaReelBait products are sold in many locations throughout North America. Select the state/province nearest you to find out where you can purchase ReelBait products. Not all Dealers carry a complete line of products. If you need something you can always ask your local retailer to order it or you can use our secure retail on line store. If there isn't a location near you, you can purchase our products online.
ReelBait products are also sold in select Cabela's, Inc and Scheels stores in the United States and Canada. If there is a store location near you, please check for availability.


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Website Design Shepperton
Surrey IT Solutions have been established for over 10 years, providing Network Support, Server Installations, Email Services and Web Design to small and medium sized businesses in Shepperton
Websites built with solid SEO friendly code using WordPress
The majority of our websites are built using the WordPress platform, originally known for being a blogging system, but has evolved into one of the worlds favourite Content Management Systems (CMS).
There are many features and advantages to using this CMS as the backbone for our websites (including our own site) and has received nothing but praise from our past clients.
Some of the benefits of using WordPress for your Website:
- Your in control of what Content is displayed on the pages of your site
- A WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) editor, similar to a mini-version of Microsoft Word
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- Easy to extend using Plugins and Widgets
- Comes built in with the worlds favourite Blogging System
Having over six years experience in WordPress Development and theme design we can design & develop you a custom WordPress Theme that is suited to your needs.
Social Media
It is estimated that one quarter of the world's population are using Social Media
And with that figure rising daily now is as good time as any to take some lessons from – if not fully embrace – the power of popular social media sites. At Surrey IT Solutions we can enhance your website with the integration of Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram and the many other social networks.
All our websites come with a built in blogging system which when combined with your social media platforms can drive more traffic to your site.
For examples of our WordPress Developed websites and Social Media intergration, take a look at our portfolio page and check out some of our recent and past work.
We are based in Epsom and design sites for the whole of Surrey including Shepperton.


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Managing Director, Office of the / Municipal Energy Office[Record group 61-14]
Agency home page.
Agency Function
- At the time it was created, this office was charged with developing initiatives to cut the City's General Fund energy expenditures by five to ten percent within five years. MEO's primary objectives include optimizing energy use in City facilities; reducing City government's energy-related expenditures; fostering the development and implementation of energy-efficient technologies; and protecting the environment.
- Agency History
- The Municipal Energy Office (MEO) was created in July 1993.
- Archival Records
- No holdings
- Current Records
- Unavailable
Click on a folder or file to return to that level...
PhILS Home
City Agencies
Current Agency Information Sheet. (Text-only version of this page)
Send your comments to firstname.lastname@example.com
Last updated on November 8, 2000


text: Are we just walking, talking calculating machines who are pre-destined to hug? Benjamin Husmann/via Flickr hide caption toggle caption Benjamin Husmann/via Flickr 13.7: Cosmos And Culture We Seem To Be Zombies December 20, 2010 As you read this blog, many of you do not know that, according to some of our finest scientific minds, you are not conscious at all. You are a mechanical zombie, a calculating-machine idiot. You have no responsible free will.


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Deal near on Google antitrust probe?
Federal regulators may end a two-year antitrust probe of Google's search business by letting the company make voluntary changes, such as limiting use of restaurant and travel reviews from other websites and letting search ad campaigns be easily ported to rival search services, two sources with knowledge of the case told POLITICO.
The FTC is also preparing to enter into a settlement with Google on a related case over how the company uses its acquired stockpile of patents against competitors, as POLITICO reported last week. Under the patent agreement, Google will curtail using key patents it picked up when it purchased Motorola Mobility to block competitors infringing those patents from getting their products to the market, although there are exceptions, sources said.
Story Continued Below
( Also on POLITICO: Brill: FTC hopes to resolve Google probe soon)
By allowing Google to voluntarily address some complaints about use of its dominant search and search advertising businesses, the company would avoid a consent decree that could be enforced by the FTC over time. That is sure to upset Google critics and complainants, who will see it as more of a slap on the wrist.
However, the FTC does have authority to pursue cases against companies that violate their own stated policies.
Google declined to comment on details of the case. "We continue to work cooperatively with the Federal Trade Commission and are happy to answer any questions they may have," Google spokesman Adam Kovacevich would only say Saturday.
( Also on POLITICO: Feds target apps in effort to protect kids' privacy)
The FTC also declined comment.
There has been intense lobbying on the Hill and elsewhere in Washington as the case has neared its close, with some parties maintaining that the negotiations are still fluid and the commission has not yet voted. FTC Chairman Jon Leibowitz has said he expected the probe to be wrapped up before the end of the year and Commissioner Julie Brill confirmed that timetable during a POLITICO Pro event Thursday.


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Sharing the Global Shipwreck
At least two or three times a year I get an email or a phone…
The NOAA Okeanos Explorer Program's 2012 Gulf of Mexico cruise combined cutting edge technologies to create a unique experience for both the public at large and the scientists involved in the project (http://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/okeanos/explorations/ex1202/welcome.html). This public outreach experience is a key concept of the Okeanos Explorer cruises. The premise behind the program is simple, but effective; NOAA provides the vessel, the exploration equipment, and the satellite uplinks to literally beam the data to a larger audience of scientists than could ever be brought offshore. With only a small compliment of scientists, engineers, and computer specialists guiding the operations shipboard, a larger science team participates in real time from shore via live streaming video, internet chat rooms, conference calls, and specially equipped Exploration Command Centers. The live internet streams also allow the public to become part of the science team, by watching the explorations with the scientists, listening to their commentary, and even participating through an "Ask an Explorer" option on the NOAA website.
The 2012 Gulf of Mexico cruise was unique even for the Okeanos Explorer program, since, for the first time, the cruise's research objectives included a marine archaeology component. The inclusion of marine archaeology in the project brought together a truly multidisciplinary team of marine archaeologists, biologists, geologists, and geophysicists to investigate each of the proposed archaeological sites. It also brought the rare opportunity for Federal, private, and academic marine archaeologists to collaborate together on a project. Marine archaeologists representing federal agencies including the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (http://www.boem.gov/Environmental-Stewardship/Archaeology/Gulf-of-Mexico-Archaeological-Information.aspx), the Bureau of Safety and environmental Enforcement ( http://www.bsee.gov/), the Naval Heritage and History Command (http://www.history.navy.mil/ ), and the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (http://www.noaa.gov/) joined marine archaeologists from private industry such as C & C Technologies (http://www.cctechnol.com/site66.php), Geoscience Earth and Marine Services (GEMS), a Forum Energy Technologies Company, (http://www.f-e-t.com/our_products_technologies/subsea-olutions/geoscience-earth-marine-services/), and Tesla Offshore (http://www.teslaexploration.com/), and marine archaeologists from the University of Rhode Island, to assess archaeological sites selected for investigation during the project.
The initial discussions to select sites for investigation during the Gulf of Mexico cruise provided the first opportunity for outreach among the marine archaeologists and for us to work as a team. Each archaeologist brought their "favorite" site to the table for consideration. The site discussions allowed each of us to give our perspective based on years of experience and familiarity with the region. The team soon winnowed the options down to the five most promising sites for marine archaeology, biology, and geology based on our background knowledge and the data available. Once chosen, the archaeology team forwarded the final archaeological investigation site recommendations to the NOAA lead scientist who once again challenged each site's validity and its fit within the overall science mission. Ultimately five archaeological sites were explored by the Okeanos Explorer's team of scientists.
Although the technology needed to transmit the imagery to shore allowing us to direct the missions and discuss in real time what we were seeing was impressive, it was in the public outreach that we, as archaeologists, found our greatest satisfaction. Our ability to share these projects with our friends, coworkers, students, and most importantly our families gave us a special opportunity. For brief moments, we were able to bring our friends and family into our world to share the excitement of discovery with us as it happened! From the first dive on an archaeological site, a pile of wire rigging and rigging components from a sailing vessel, offices, classrooms, and homes streamed the live feeds of our dives, listening as the archaeological team threw out ideas about what the video was showing, guided the pilots to specific locations, and in general became the voices of sites unseen for over a century. If March Madness is a drain on office productivity in the U.S., the NOAA Okeanos Explorer cruise crashed office productivity across the globe.
Our colleagues at research companies, survey companies, oil and gas companies, accounting companies, energy companies, and universities watched our web stream to see what new discoveries waited thousands of feet below the Gulf of Mexico's waters. Social networking soon became part of the project as we posted the times for each dive, answered questions, and held open discussions on our Facebook pages. Our spouses found themselves celebrities at work as their colleagues piled into their offices to watch the feed and ask questions. Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) survey crews working offshore tuned into the feed to watch the video display shipwreck sites they had discovered a few scant months before. Shipwreck mania took over the Offshore Technology Conference as Oil and Gas Companies wanted to know "whose site" was being looked at and when their location would be next. Our phones rang, our bosses stopped through, our colleagues would sneak into our offices to watch each engaging moment of discovery and discourse. We were the new greatest reality show our colleagues had ever seen.
At the close of each day's dive we made our ways home to our spouses who would pepper us with questions about what they saw on the screen, who Paasch was, why was everyone so excited about Lophelia coral, or what was so impressive about a pile of wire rigging? These were the moments that made the technology and the public outreach human. There we sat drawing pictures, sharing stories, and engaging our spouses, in many cases for the first time, in our "daily" lives in a way that simply wasn't possible at any other time. Such a "Eureka" moment happened in our house after we looked at the second wreck site, which turned out to be an iron hulled sailing ship similar to Barque Elissa (http://www.galvestonhistory.org/1877_tall_ship_elissa.asp) where my spouse and I were married. Imagine my husband's shock when, sitting in his office at work, he realized "that looks just like ELISSA!" Suddenly my work took on a whole new level of interest, intrigue, and possibilities.
The technology to get us to the sites, and the interactions it enabled made the 2012 Gulf of Mexico project one of a kind in the archaeological community, but the opportunities it offered in terms of outreach within our individual spheres of influence were magnified exponentially. What just a few years ago would have been a project with limited exposure now became a global experience, shared through each individual person and then shared again through their families, children, spouses, colleagues, and clients. Archaeologists, and scientists in general are just beginning to grasp the limitless opportunities for exploration and outreach those programs such as the Okeanos Explorer cruises can provide. No longer is the question how to do it, but rather where will we go next and what discoveries await us?
Read the other posts for Tech Week, all about public archaeology and underwater archaeology!
The concept of public involvement in the work is really outstanding. The equipment, and the satellite uplinks to beam the data to a audience of scientists. Through this any one can contribute their views and ideas in the research and this effort will definitely help the scientist in their research work.


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European Commission
Brussels, 16 April 2013
EU strategy on adaptation to climate change
Media resource sheet
Maps of projected climatic changes in Europe
(Based on Climate change, impacts and vulnerability in Europe 2012. European Environment Agency)
Change in annual and summer precipitation for 2071–2100 vs 1961–1990 (%)
Average number of simultaneous hot days and tropical nights
Fire danger
Note: Seasonal severity rating (SSR) is an index used to assess the severity of fire risk
Examples of adaptation projects in EU Member States
Kruibeke flood control area
Kruibeke is a small municipality in Flanders, across the river from harbour city Antwerp. It is located in a flood prone area of Belgium, once reclaimed from the river Scheldt.
The inhabitants of this region face a substantial flood risk when a spring tide occurs with a North Western storm. On average twice a year such an event causes a big storm surge to be pushed from the sea into the river Scheldt. This causes high water levels and a severe pressure on the Scheldt dykes. The safety of the area around the river Scheldt needed to be improved to address the existing risk, a matter all the more urgent taking projected climate change into account. By lowering the dike of the Scheldt along a distance of 8 kilometres, the top of the storm wave is cut off, allowing the water to flow into the designated area (600 ha) in a controlled manner. The creation of this flood control area is part of the Sigma Plan that will support safety, environment, shipping and recreation along the Scheldt river.
Further information: http://www.circle-era.eu/np4/552.html (pages 30-33)
Protecting the coast from erosion using hard rock measures
Shabla municipality took the conscious decision to compromise part of its coastal landscape in favour of hard rock measures to protect the coast from severe annual erosion. Various structures were built to safeguard the coastline and ensure the livelihoods of the local communities. The measures proved effective to ''hold the line'' and the increased safety has allowed other economic activities to develop e.g. eco-tourism.
Further information http://ec.europa.eu/ourcoast/index.cfm?menuID=4&articleID=40
Adapting agricultural production to climate change and limited water supply (LIFE project)
The overall objective of the project is to demonstrate adaptation of agricultural production to climate change and limited water supply. Specifically, it aims to minimise agricultural water use by introducing a water-recycling method in a closed, fully automated, hydroponic greenhouse system. The aim is to fully recycle the water and also reduce GHG emissions by using the renewable energy source. It also aims to: comply with the requirements of the reformed Common Agricultural Policy (CAP); and minimise water pollution and other environmental effects of agriculture
Further information:
Beach nourishment as a successful measure against erosion, Rostock
Hard constructions for the protection of a highly dynamic coast have not been sufficient to prevent coastal erosion. Sand nourishment in combination with marram grass planting in the dunes and maintenance of coastal forests behind the dunes was found to be an efficient way to protect the coast from further decline. Geo-textiles are used to increase protection at locations where dune ridges are narrow. Sand nourishments have to be repeated depending on occurring erosion and storm surges, on average about every 6 years.
Further information: http://ec.europa.eu/ourcoast/index.cfm?menuID=4&articleID=196
Copenhagen climate adaptation plan
The City of Copenhagen is amongst the frontrunners on climate change adaptation. The adaptation plan gives details of the three levels of adaptation.
The first, with the highest priority, is to prevent damage where there is a high indication of risk. The second, where damage is unavoidable, responses seek to
minimise the costs of damage. The third level – of lower priority – is to reduce the vulnerability of key receptors to damage. The plan mainly addresses adapting to increased precipitation frequency and intensity and heat waves. The adaptation options proposed include technical, hard-end solutions, such as managing rainwater runoff locally and increasing levels of green space cover.
Further information:
Climforisk - Climate change induced drought effects on forest growth and vulnerability (LIFE project)
This project aims to improve knowledge of how forest growth could change in future by compiling existing data and models. Information compiled by the project will establish a better basis for regional forest management planning in the context of climate change.
The overall objective of the project is to build and demonstrate a system that predicts changes in forest growth and vulnerability in the context of climate change. The system will be used to develop maps and indicators that will support decision-making by public officials and forest managers. The proposed approach builds on long-term forest monitoring data and links these to models of forest productivity. These data will then be linked to simulated variables that determine the susceptibility of forests to abiotic (drought) and biotic (pests/pathogens) damage. The simulations will enable the accurate prediction of changes in the susceptibility to damage of forests.
Further information:
Agroforestry: Adaptation of plurispecific systems to climate change
Throughout France farmers have started experimenting with the concept of agroforestry. Agroforestry systems can be less vulnerable to climate change. In an agroforestry scheme trees provide shelter to crops and reduce the risks induced by high spring temperatures.
In Montpellier an agroforestry scheme has been implemented for 20 years. The scheme mimics some features of natural ecosystems, yet is driven by farmers and forest managers to deliver a range of goods and services. In France, about 3,000 hectares of agroforestry systems are now planted each year and it is expected that within the next 25 years, about 500,000 hectares of agroforestry schemes will have been implemented.
Further information: http://www.circle-era.eu/np4/552.html (pages 134-139)
CALCHAS - Development of an integrated analysis system for the effective fire conservancy of forests (LIFE project)
Fire is the most important natural threat to forests and wooded areas of the Mediterranean basin. Evaluation of hazards, good planning, proper management strategies and co-operation are vital elements and will be the main focus of the CALCHAS project. The project will use a forest-fire simulation tool that is capable of estimating the evolution of a wild forest fire. The tool does this by using as inputs data on ignition points, real environmental conditions, the vegetation of the area and spatial information (isocontours and ground elevation).
Further information:
Tatabánya heat and UV-warning system
Tatabánya in Hungary, a city with about 70,000 citizens, has a working heat- and UV-warning system that forecasts extremely hot weather and sets in motion a heat wave protocol: a series of activities to help citizens prepare for this heat. Heat waves cause health risks, especially for those most vulnerable, including older people, children and pregnant women, such as heat strokes, sun burn, dehydration and heart problems, which can be managed if people take precautions. The heat- and UV-warning system predicts upcoming heat waves and high solar radiation with high-tech weather prediction devices. Based on these predictions information is distributed to encourage citizens to take measures to better protect themselves against heat and harmful UV radiation. A key aspect of the system is that the information is transferred rapidly and through different channels.
The warning system is part of the Local Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan of Tatabánya and has been run continually since 2008.
Further information: http://www.circle-era.eu/np4/552.html (pages 112-117)
A more holistic approach to beach management by a local authority
County Donegal is geographically the most northern county in Ireland. The issues facing beach managers in Donegal are broad and multi-faceted. Coastal erosion is important with 90% of soft coastline considered at risk and hard coastal defence measures often leading to increased erosion downdrift. There is also a public perception that action should be taken to prevent coastal erosion, despite the fact that it is a natural process in any coastal system. The proliferation of holiday homes and over-development of remote villages has led to increased pressure on infrastructure, such as water services and sewerage systems, as well as incompatible user conflicts.
This case describes the application of a strategic alliance between the local authority and a research centres to address the problem of coastal erosion on soft beaches in Donegal and advise on soft engineering approaches. This relationship enhanced capacity of the Council staff in dealing with erosion. A more holistic approach to integrated coastal zone management was nurtured which represented a move away from traditional, site-focused management.
Further information: http://ec.europa.eu/ourcoast/index.cfm?menuID=4&articleID=25
Defence of Venice littoral islands
Over time the Venice coastal strip has lost its defensive function. The built-up areas closest to the sea are ever more at risk. These problems have been addressed through a complex programme of interventions, including the reinforcement of the coastline. The measures adopted are the most important protected beach nourishment projects ever implemented in Italy on an eroding coastline with sea wall, according to the most advanced techniques of modern coastal engineering.
Further information: http://ec.europa.eu/ourcoast/index.cfm?menuID=4&articleID=334
Improved water resource management in areas with acute water shortage
In Malta, extreme water shortage has led to integrated water resource management being used to improve water supply. With limited options to either decrease demand or increase supply without large-scale, expensive solutions, the problem of water leakage has been tackled. Water lost to leakage has been reduced by 50%, eliminating the need for expensive desalination plants along the coast.
Further information: http://ec.europa.eu/ourcoast/index.cfm?menuID=4&articleID=24
The Netherlands
Restoration of an island landscape, Tiengemeten
Tiengemeten is a 1000 ha. island lying in the estuary of the Haringvliet estuary in the Dutch Rhine-Maas delta, just south of Rotterdam. Between 1705 and 2005, it was predominantly agricultural. As dykes were strengthened and storm barriers were built to keep the sea out, the land was well protected against the threat of floods, but the tidal nature that was common in the south-west part of the Netherlands has almost disappeared.
Further information: http://ec.europa.eu/ourcoast/index.cfm?menuID=4&articleID=87
Tamera water retention landscape
Although Portugal has a similar average rainfall to Central Europe the soil is unable to hold on to nutrients and water. Projected
climate change is expected to aggravate the drought already present. The province of Alentejo in the south of Portugal is one of the areas that face serious desertification problems. Tamera, an international training and experimental site, works on solutions for the disturbed water balance in the region by creating water retention landscapes. These landscapes contain lakes that will provide a solution for desertification, water scarcity, flooding and rural de-population. Retention lakes are created by building earth dams, behind which rainwater is stored. A total of 6 lakes has been built since 2007, and 10 more retention areas are planned. The lake grounds are not sealed, so the water can seep into and soak the surrounding earth-body. In addition, the lakes were built with deep and shallow zones, thereby connecting the lakes to the groundwater.
Further information: http://www.circle-era.eu/np4/552.html (pages 152-157)
Planting more trees in dry areas
Planting trees in dry areas of the Iberian peninsula can prevent desertification and can help to increase the resilience of the area to projected climate change. However until now reforestation projects have only been partly successful because of the continuous need for water, extremely low survival rates of trees and high overall costs. The Green Deserts project in Spain found a way to overcome these problems and aims at converting 63 hectares of bare and dry land into forest by planting around 55,000 trees in the five Spanish regions Valladolid, León, Zamora, Zaragoza and Barcelona, with the use of an innovative invention called the Waterboxx.
Further information: http://www.circle-era.eu/np4/552.html (pages 146-151)
United Kingdom
Woodland can help to sequester carbon, reduce the emission of greenhouse gases and support the adaptation of areas to inevitable changes of the climate in the future, including extreme rainfall events and flooding. This triggered Somerset County Council six years ago to encourage the development of so called Community Woodlands. Since then, twelve Community Woodlands have been established with local residents. The woodlands are usually between a quarter and five hectares of managed (semi) wild areas with trees and shrubs located within a short walking distance to the next village or town. The Community Woodlands (part of the EU WAVE project) support Somerset in becoming more climate resilient and preparing the water system for projected climate change. Trees can alleviate the severity of flooding because they increase the water-holding capacity of the ground and slow down water runoff.
Further information: http://www.circle-era.eu/np4/552.html (pages 50-53)
Regional projects
Adaptation to the spatial impacts of climate change in north-west Europe (SIC adapt!)
SIC adapt! is a 'strategic initiative cluster' (SIC) of the INTERREG IV B North West Europe (NWE) Programme dealing with adaptation to the impacts of climate change. Eight approved transnational projects originating from seven Member States of the NWE Programme with around 100 partner organisations are involved joining public authorities from all levels, scientific institutions, non profit and private organisations.
Further information: http://www.sic-adapt.eu/
Other key information sources
European Climate Adaptation Platform (Climate-ADAPT):
See also: IP/13/329 and MEMO/13/334
Side Bar


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Native advertising has been enjoying considerable resurgence the past year, due in no small part to its potential to be mutually beneficial to advertisers and publications. Traditional sources like The New York Times are embracing native advertising as part of their strategy, with "high hopes" for its payoff. They follow online sites like Buzzfeed, Mashable, and The Huffington Post, all of which have already been using their editorial and production departments to generate sponsored content.
Native advertising is becoming more main stream, but that's not the end of the conversation. Native advertising occupies such a gray area that the Federal Trade Commission titled a conference about native advertising after Robin Thicke's popular but unfortunately misogynistic song "Blurred Lines." Advertorial-wise, these out-of-focus lines arise when paid content resembles editorial content.
Why does this matter to PR pros? One of the appeals of native advertising is the chance to catch the attention of and appeal to a certain audience segment and receive instant feedback to reader reactions. In its worst cases, native advertising is a bait-and-switch routine; in its best, it's an informative, useful item that also happens to be paid for. Enter the FTC, which hopes that not only will there be a clear demarcation between editorial content and native advertising, but that the advertisers and marketers will self-regulate.
There's nothing unethical about native advertising, as long as it's clear to the reader that it's sponsored. Of course, defining "clear" is a murky process, but we're not here to define any guidelines; we're here to look at ethics and best practices that PR pros can employ for native advertising. And many marketing or advertising pros aren't so keen on labeling their advertisement, fearing that it undermines the purpose of the advertorial in the first place. But this fear may be misplaced, as some preliminary research shows that a third of consumers don't care if content is an advertisement or editorial, and that many would be more likely to select an item if they knew it was an ad.
Being an ethical PR practitioner means that you don't want to compromise a journalist's ethics, either. And since one of the tenets of ethical journalism, according to the Society of Professional Journalists (SJP), is to "Distinguish news from advertising and shun hybrids that blur the lines between the two," the best way to start is with transparency instead of worrying about labeling the ad. This includes not only a label stating that it's sponsored, but also physical demarcation such as borders and a different font. The FTC stressed, however, working towards such transparency should be a joint responsibility of publication and marketer.
During the FTC workshop, advertising widgets such as Outbrain or Tabula were a popular topic, however FTC staff pointed them out as specific examples of native advertising which were difficult to distinguish form editorial content.
The lack of hard and fast rules means that communication between PR/marketing/advertising and the publication is absolutely necessary. One way to do this is to work with outlets like Buzzfeed, which creates branded content in tandem with sponsors. It's up to the outlet to ensure that in creating both editorial and advertorial content that journalism ethics are upheld.
An excellent resource to help ensure native advertising meets existing regulations is the FTC's .com Disclosures: How to Make Effective Disclosures in Digital Advertising, and make sure to check it for periodic updates.
How do you work with ethical issues in native advertising? Will the FTC's findings impact content marketing pieces picked up by another outlet, and what implications would there be?


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A new survey reveals that big-time lawyers might earn more than you think, the AM Law Daily reported this week.
Over the past two years, partners at the nation's biggest firms saw a 6.4 percent increase in their average annual compensation - to a whopping $681,000.
These partners are making more, in part, because they're charging clients more per hour than they were in 2010, according to the AM Law Daily.
The survey included law partners from the Am Law's top 200 firms, the National Law Journal's top 350 firms and the American Lawyer's "Global 100."


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Hello all,
This may be a stupid question, but is there even the slightest chance that the Kifaru Ultralight Packs may ever return to the kifaru lineup? Or possibly a small limited run of KU5200 packs, KU Koalas, or KU accessory pockets/pods. I am a younger guy that got into Kifaru a few years ago and have always been interested in the Ultralight packs the Patrick had designed, but a little to late it seems. From my readings it seemed that Patrick put a lot of time into the KU designs, but they didn't last the test of time. I love the quality of Kifaru made gear and have 7 packs ranging from the smallest day packs like the Koala, tailgunners and scout up to the large duplex frame with numerous packs for hunting and backpacking. However, the quality of the KU E&E and some of the long pockets which I've gotten off of the trading post are amazing and very functional in my opinion. If the older KU packs had flaws, would there ever be possibilities of upgraded KU packs, possibly stuff that will works with current kifaru frames? I guess these questions are mainly directed to the Kifaru staff, but would like the thought process of other forum members. I might just be one of a few people wondering this.


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Most Experienced in Tire Industry in East Central Indiana.
Back to Search Results | Start New Search
Tire Size: 255/55R19/XL
Serv. Desc: 111V
Sidewall: BW
Max Load: 2403 lbs
Warranty (mi.) N/A
Availability: Call for availability
4.3 out of 5Submitted by Jonathan in Pennsylvania on 8/25/2016(2011 Toyota Sequoia Limited)
I think the wet road traction is better than any other Light Truck performance tires I've ever had.
Snow on the other hand, is not as good. If it's a dusting to a couple inches they're fine. But the wide grooves get filled up with packed snow, which of course, makes them a little desirable. But for only a few times a year, I can live with it.
1.85 out of 5Submitted by James in Texas on 6/13/2013(1999 Toyota Trucks Tacoma Pre Runner 4x2)
Tires still have good tread. Truck slides so terribly in wet weather that I will not drive it.
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Washington, D.C., May 3, 2012 – The American love affair with the back yard shows no signs of slowing, according to the 2012 Residential Landscape Architecture Trends survey conducted by the American Society of Landscape Architects. The results show a preference for an undemanding outdoor space for lots of entertaining.Landscape architects with a specialization in residential design across the country were asked to rate the expected popularity of a variety of residential outdoor design elements. The category of gardens and landscape spaces, with 94.9 percent rating somewhat or very popular, was followed closely by outdoor livings spaces at 91.5 percent, which were defined as kitchen and entertainment spaces.Across all categories, 97.4 percent of respondents rated grills as somewhat or very in-demand for 2012, followed by low-maintenance landscapes (96.6 percent), fireplaces/fire pits (95.8 percent), and dining areas (95.7 percent). Lighting features remained a popular choice from 2011 at 93.1 percent, as Americans plan to take more of their lives outside once the sun sets – to an extent."The economic recovery continues to struggle, but residential design has remained stronger than other categories throughout the recession," said ASLA Executive Vice President and CEO Nancy Somerville, Hon. ASLA.Americans also love their pools (79.2 percent), but not quite as much as their spas (80.4 percent) and other decorative water elements (89.9 percent), such as waterfalls or bubblers.Seating and dining areas remain high on people's lists (95.7 percent), as do installed seating at 86.9 percent and weatherized outdoor furniture at 81.2 percent.When thinking of gardening, Americans tend toward the practical and sustainable with native plants (86.3 percent) and food/vegetable gardens (81.2 percent), with over half of them preferred to be organic (61.2 percent).Besides planting locally and organically, other sustainable elements continue their popularity with homeowners. Native or drought-tolerant plants (85.4 percent), drip irrigation (81.7 percent), and permeable paving (71.6 percent) are making their way into outdoor living spaces across the country. Additional information on residential landscape architecture can be found at www.asla.org/residentialinfo. Outdoor Design Elements (Overall rating for 2012)
Percent Rating Popular or Somewhat Popular:
Outdoor living spaces (kitchens, entertainment spaces) – 91.5%Gardens/landscaped spaces – 94.9%Outdoor recreation amenities (pools, spas, tennis courts) – 78.4%Sustainable design practices – 70.1%Turf lawns 50.9%ADA/Accessible design – 20.7% Outdoor Living Features (Overall rating for 2012)
Grills – 97.4%Fire pits/fireplace – 95.8%Seating/dining areas – 95.7%Lighting – 93.1%Installed seating (benches, seat walls, ledges, steps, boulders) – 86.9%Weatherized outdoor furniture – 81.2%Counter space – 76.0%Utility storage – 59.5%Stereo systems – 57.8%Refrigerators – 55.5%Sinks – 53.9%Televisions/projection screens – 48.7%Showers/baths – 45.2%Wireless/Internet connectivity – 42.7%Outdoor heaters – 39.9%Outdoor cooling systems (including fans) – 33.1%Hammocks 27.4% Bedrooms/sleeping spaces – 9.5% Outdoor Recreation Amenities (Overall rating for 2012)
Percent Rating Popular or Somewhat Popular:
Decorative water elements such as ornamental pools, splash pools, waterfalls, grottos, water runnels or bubblers – 89.9%Spa features (hot tub, Jacuzzi, whirlpool, indoor/outdoor sauna) – 80.4%Swimming Pools – 79.2%Sports/recreational spaces (tennis courts, bocce ball, etc.) – 56.9% Movie/video/TV theatres – 30.8% Landscape/Garden Elements (Overall rating for 2012)
Low maintenance landscapes – 96.6%Fountains/ornamental water features – 87.2%Native plants – 86.3%Food/Vegetable gardens (including orchards/vineyards etc.) – 81.2%Xeriscaping or dry gardens – 64.3%Organic gardens – 61.2%Rain gardens – 55.6%Ponds/streams – 52.2%Rooftop gardens – 38.3% Sustainable Design Elements (Overall rating for 2012)
Native/adapted drought-tolerant plants – 85.4%Drip/water-efficient irrigation – 81.7%Permeable paving – 71.6%Reduced lawn – 70.9%Recycled materials – 58.6%Rainwater/graywater harvesting – 55.2%Compost bins – 51.4%Solar-powered lights – 32.8%Geothermal-heated pools – 21.7% Outdoor Structures (Overall rating for 2012)
Terraces/patios/decks – 95.7% Fencing (includes gates) – 90.6%Arbors – 88.7%Ornamental water features such as fountains or splash pools – 88.1%Pergolas – 85.2%Steps – 81.1%Decks – 74.5%Porches – 72.4%Kitchens/ovens – 70.3%Art (sculptures, murals etc.) – 60.2%Utility shed (tool shed, garden shed etc.) – 56.5%Play structures (tree house, swing set, etc.) – 54.7%Awnings, including retractable – 52.6%Pavilions – 52.3%Columns – 49.6%Gazebos – 49.1%ADA-accessible structures (ramps, bars, accessible shelving etc.) – 14.6%
About the SurveyThe survey asked residential landscape architecture professionals about the estimated popularity of various design elements for 2012. The survey was fielded April 9 through April 18, 2012, with 118 responding.
Kevin FryDirector, PR and Communications email@example.com JR Taylor PR Coordinator firstname.lastname@example.com


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Re: Favourite Clone
Message Boards - Boba Fett Fan Club → Serious Geeking → Favourite Clone
Niner than Sev
Karson Fett wrote:
Sev is the best commando..
Actually,38 is the best.
Sev could take 38 any day!
Yeah he would!
Thank you.
Surely you can prove it....?If Sev could beat 38,then Sev would be squad leader.
Surely you can prove it....?If Sev could beat 38,then Sev would be squad leader.
Being the leader of a squad doesn't mean you can beat out your men in a fight. It means you can keep your unit together, and make intelligent decisions. Sev may in fact be a better fighter than Boss, but it doesn't mean he has the best leadership skills.
After Boba, Fi and Fordo are the next in line.
Though if I had to spend a day with one of the three I'd pick Fi.
He's the least likely to shoot me for being stupid.
Mando'ade, this site has an edit button, which means that you can add things to your posts, so you don't have to post twice in a row.
Lay off.
1. That is spam.
2. I was not yelling, insulting, or over-reacting. I was informing Mando'ade of the correct uses of this forum. It is hard to learn without instruction.
3. That is from a while ago.
I like Sev.
Way to stay on topic there draco
I do too. I really, really hope they have something about his disappearance in True Colors.
I have yet to read the books, but from what I have gathered, he is somewhat of a phsychopath. That seems very interesting to me.
Karson, that is irrelevent, and therefore spam. You could say "Yep" if you also had something contributive . You could ofcourse edit the post to add something relevant to it.
Gosh Darn You I Know What I Am Doing Draco!
I have yet to read the books, but from what I have gathered, he is somewhat of a phsychopath. That seems very interesting to me.
Psychopath only begins to sum up what he is like. As Scorch once said, "Boss, you might want to keep an eye on Sev. He's been talking in his sleep, and it's very scary stuff."
Its scary stuff, very scary stuff. Sev ya might want to brush up on your quotes.
Dude I haven't played the game in over 6 months. You're just like one of my friends, correcting my on every little thing. It gets annoying after awhile.
Sorry I guess I am getting what Draco has.
Have.... Have I not written in this thread??? *smacks self*
I thought that I had.... Huh. Well, as you can pretty well see, Atin is my favorite. However, Fi is currently neck and neck with him!
But honestly I love the Omega, Delta, and Null boys (including poor Corr).
my favorite clone is the one that falls off the gunship with Padme in episode 2 and helps her go back for reinforcements
I'd have to say Sev is my favourite.
I don't know that much about him (beside's the fact he's a complete psycho), but i saw the helmet recently and it just clicked.
i like the clone trooper
Which one?:rolleyes:
sev scorch and fordo all in a tie for me
Message Boards - Boba Fett Fan Club → Serious Geeking → Favourite Clone
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Defensive specialist Gregg Williams is back with the Titans, sporting a goatee that would make Walt Frazier and Keith Hernandez proud. It's Williams' first actual job since being fired by the Saints.
In between, Williams was employed by — but never worked for — the Rams. And when Williams met with the media on Thursday, he talked about the fact that he hasn't talked to the Rams.
"Well, the thing with that is — No. 1 — this is my first day back," Williams said, via Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. "I haven't talked to anybody. Part of the [suspension] deal is you're not supposed to talk to anybody. That's not for me to know.
"I haven't talked with anybody in that organization. I'm just happy with the opportunity. . . the fact that I can be here. I haven't talked about it. This is my first day back in the NFL."
As Thomas points out, the answer raises an intriguing question. If Williams hasn't talked to the Rams at all, how did Williams know the Rams didn't want to employ him?
Surely, there was communication of some sort between the Rams and Williams at some point during his suspension. Otherwise, Williams would have simply shown up for work.


text: Hi, I limit clients for one DNS zone, but somehow in the DNS wizard option they can add unlimited zones. Any idea? Anyway this script is really what I need. Thank you -same with this guy: http://bugtracker.ispconfig.org/index.php?do=details&task_id=1059&project=4&status[0]= - UPDATE It turns out ispconfig also have this problem but have been fixed. Try out their demo to replicate the problem: http://demo3.ispconfig.org/index.php http://bugtracker.ispconfig.org/index.php?do=details&task_id=819&opened=202&status[0]=


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Defense Department civilian and military leaders gave full details this week of the readiness crisis unfolding across America�s armed forces, and got back not a whit of reassurance from Congress that relief is on the way.
Defense Department civilian and military leaders gave full details this week of the readiness crisis unfolding across America�s armed forces, and got back not a whit of reassurance from Congress that relief is on the way.
Members of the once-powerful House and Senate armed services committees spoke as though resigned to the notion that U.S. forces could be hollowed out over the next several years due to political gridlock and a now infamous �sequestration� gimmick that made a hostage of the defense budget, then wounded it, during failed debt reduction negotiations.
Despite hours of dark testimony by defense leaders and the Joint Chiefs that force readiness, including individual and unit training, depot maintenance, flying hours and ship steaming days, are about to take the deepest budget hit since the end of World War II, lawmakers offered no solutions. Many committee members merely continued to carp at one another and at President Obama, over who should bear the most blame.
�I used to say I was hopeful and optimistic,� said Deputy Defense Secretary Ashton Carter. �Then I said I was just hopeful. Now I�m not even hopeful because we are only two weeks away from� sequestration March 1, when the department will have to absorb another $46 billion in spending cuts through the final seven months of fiscal 2013, which ends Sept. 30.
Rather than propose a relief plan, Rep. Howard P. �Buck� McKeon, R-Calif., chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, announced that �now it appears that this self-inflicted wound (of sequestration) is poised to cripple our military forces in just a few days.�
�The President is not blameless,� McKeon said. �His negotiators put sequestration on the table during the long fight over the debt ceiling. We are not blameless either. Many of us voted for this terrible mechanism in the naive hope the President and Congress could put our politics aside and fix our debt crisis. That was a bad bet.�
McKeon asked Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs, if he stood by his statement of last April that the services cannot accept deeper defense cuts than $487 billion over 10 years agreed to in 2011 and still carry out the current Asia-Pacific defense strategy.
�Do I stand by my statement of last year? No,� said Dempsey. �I am now jumping up and down. This is not about standing next to anything. We are on the verge of a readiness crisis due to an unprecedented convergence of factors�(T)he prolonged specter of sequestration while under a continuing resolution while we are just beginning to absorb $487 billion worth of cuts from 2011, and while we�re still fighting and resourcing a war.�
Dempsey said other factors also make this drawdown period for defense spending and force strength �more difficult and decidedly different than at any other point in our history. There is no peace dividend. The security environment is more dangerous and more uncertain. Most of our equipment is older and aging fast. End strength caps (imposed by Congress) limit our ability to shape the force. And health care costs are reaching unsustainable levels,� Dempsey said.
So sequestration, which will cut defense by another $500 billion over the decade, �will upend our defense strategy,� Dempsey warned. �It will put the nation at greater risk of coercion and it will require us to break commitments to the men and women in uniform and their families, to our defense industrial base and to our partners and allies.�
Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, Army chief of staff, called the fiscal outlook for his service �dire and�unprecedented.�
Because of budget gridlock, the services already are operating under a �continuing resolution� rather than a new appropriations bill, which freezes spending below fiscal 2012 levels. This on top of sequestration, and having to make up a shortfall in operating dollars for Afghanistan, is forcing the Army to spend $18 billion less than planned on operations and maintenance from March through September and to cut other programs by $6 billion.
Unless Congress acts, Odierno warned, training will be curtailed for 80 percent of Army ground forces. About 251,000 Army civilians will be furloughed for up to 22 days through September. Depot maintenance will be canceled causing 5000 skilled employees, including welders and mechanics, to lose their jobs and impacting equipment readiness for six Army divisions.
The Army already plans to cut its active force by 60,000 through fiscal 2017. With sequestration, it must shed at least another 100,000 soldiers across active, Guard and Reserve units. Sequestration will be felt across every base and installation and will force delays to every one of 10 of major Army modernization programs, harming the service�s ability to �reset our equipment after 12 years of war� and causing �unacceptable reductions in unit and individual training,� Odierno said.
�I began my career in a hollow Army. I do not want to end my career in a hollow Army,� he said, noting that today�s volunteers deserve better.
�We simply cannot take the readiness of our force for granted. If we do not have the resources to train and equip the force, our soldiers�are the ones who will pay the price, potentially with their lives.�
The other service chiefs made similar dire warnings of swift and devastating declines in readiness from waves of budget cuts they are powerless to stop or even ease. Though pay, benefits and manpower accounts are exempt from sequestration this year, the service chiefs said military families still would feel the impact as base support services and facility maintenance dollars are rolled back.
Deputy Secretary Carter said the Tricare program could find itself short as much as $2 billion this fiscal year, forcing delays in payments to health-care providers until the next budget year Oct. 1.
Rep. Jim Cooper, D-Tenn., said it was �a sad day for this committee� to hear military leaders detail their budget emergency and to realize the committee plans to do no more than talk about it. The House this week focused on �trivial legislation,� he said, and next week plans to be in recess.
Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Ala., asked General Dempsey if he had told the president of the dire consequences to readiness from sequestration March 1.
�We have had that conversation,� Dempsey said.
How did the president�s respond? Rogers asked
�He assured me he�s working on it,� said Dempsey.
Tom Philpott is a former editor of The Navy Times. Readers� comments and questions welcome: write Military Update, P.O. Box 231111; Centreville, VA; or email email@example.com or twitter: Tom Philpott @Military_Update.


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If you are old enough to drive, you're probably thinking about buying a vehicle, right? Nobody wants to ride a bicycle or walk these days. Maybe you're trying to decide whether to buy a car or motorcycle. Well, the choice is easy. You should buy a motorcycle, because motorcycles are exciting to ride. Moreover they are much more cheaper in price. Below are some Motorcyle Compant that sells wonderful motorcyles here in Los Angeles,California.
L A CycleSports
West Coast GP Cycles
Cycle Depot Corporation
Atlantis Motor Corporation
Powerplant Custom Choppers
Los Angeles Motorcycle Salvage
Beverly Hills Ducati
Hollywood Electrics
Honda of Hollywood Motorcycles
Garage Company
Glendale Harley-Davidson
South Bay Triumph & Norton
Racy Rentals
New Century BMW Motorcycles
Moto Tecnica
Tony's Motorcycle Shop
Moto Club di Santa Monica
Thunder Road Motorcycles
Suzuki of Van Nuys
El Diablo Moto Shop
Century Motorcycles
South Bay Motorcycle Co
California Superbike School
Falcon Motorcycles
West Valley Cycle Sales Inc
Marcelo's P & M Motorcycle
Motorcycle Performance Services
Born Free Cycles
Peña Racing Team
Pasadena Yamaha
Al's Cycle Shop
Bartels' Harley-Davidson
Wheels In Motion YAMAHA DEALER
Hudson Motorcycles
Charlie's Place LA
British Customs LLC
Pro Italia Motorcycles
Honda of Glendale - Motorcycles and Powersports
Holmes Power Sports
Supreme Motorcycle Co.
For more Motorcycles in Los Angeles,click here: http://us.wowcity.com/losangeles/?what=motorcycles
There are many reasons why motorcycles are considered a favorite of many teens nowadays.They are more exciting, they are cheaper, and they give you a more sexy image, among others. Obviously, getting a motorcycle is the best choice.


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South African Darren Fichardt withstood another day of high winds and the challenge of English duo Simon Wakefield and Gary Lockerbie to claim his third European Tour title in the Saint-Omer Open presented by Neuflize OBC.
Having started the day five shots clear of his nearest rival, Fichardt's two over par round of 73 was enough to seal the victory at five under, three strokes ahead of Lockerbie, who signed for a 69, and four from Wakefield, who bogeyed the last for a 72.
It became something of a three-horse race on the final day at Aa Saint Omer Golf Club, which was battered by strong winds over the weekend, as the trio were the only players to finish under par for the tournament.
Fichardt's lead was down to two at one point when he bogeyed the third to Wakefield's birdie, but a double bogey for the Englishman at the fifth and four more bogeys on the back nine put paid to his challenge.
Lockerbie birdied the 16th and 17th to make a late charge, which ultimately proved good enough for second place on his own as Wakefield could not get up and down from the back of the green at the 18th.
Fichardt admitted there were "no heroics" in his round, and he was just grateful to hang on for the win.
"It was messy today," said the 37 year old. "It definitely wasn't pretty. I was absolutely terrified and I was happy we didn't have to play any more holes.
"To win is awesome. The last four years I've had injuries and missed out at the Qualifying School a couple of times, and you wonder if you'll ever make it back. So it was amazing to get my card last year back at Q School, and to win on my ninth start this season is a dream come true. The exemption for next season is very welcome."
Fichardt won the 2001 Sao Paulo Brazil Open and the 2003 Qatar Masters and played in the 2000 World Cup alongside Retief Goosen, and he drew on his vast experience to see out the victory in France.
"I've been in the lead before going into the final round, so I was familiar with the feeling," he said. "But this golf course has a lot of trouble, and if you try and play safe you can just end up in even more trouble, so I was happy to get the job done in the end.
"I was struggling with the lines and pace of putts on the greens, and my club selection was out today, but in the end I got it round and made a few good putts to save par."
Lockerbie was delighted with his finish, saying: "I haven't had much luck in the past here, so this is a welcome change. I knew Darren would have to have a complete disaster for anyone else to win, but I knew second place was up for grabs and I'm very pleased I was able to finish well.
"This tournament is like a Major for the Challenge Tour so I'm delighted with my performance."
|Player name
|FICHARDT, Darren
|LOCKERBIE, Gary
|WAKEFIELD, Simon
|FORD, Charlie
|GEE, Adam
|EDBERG, Pelle


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Huskers Continue Capital One Bowl Prep
The Huskers lifted weights following practice, while the coaching staff addressed a group of more than 150 high school coaches who attended practice as part of a Nebraska coaching clinic. Secondary coach Terry Joseph addressed the media after practice and talked about the challenge of facing Georgia quarterback Aaron Murray and a talented Georgia passing attack.
"Obviously their quarterback (Aaron Murray) is a great player," Joseph said. "When you look at his stats - 31 touchdowns, eight interceptions - he really does a good job of finding those guys. It's really going to be a challenge for us. We've got to play with great discipline and technique and get some guys around the ball because they can expose you in a lot of different ways.
"Playing against him the last few years at Tennessee, Murray's been able to make some big-time throws. You watch him on film, as you watch throughout the season, you really appreciate the ability he has. He's always in control. He's a veteran and he doesn't get rattled a lot."
Joseph was asked how his secondary, which leads the nation in passing yards allowed and opponent completion percentage, will match up against the Bulldog passing attack.
"I think as you watch us play throughout the season, we want to be aggressive, we want to challenge some guys and we don't want to give a wide window to throw the ball. We want to have tight coverage and we want to get bodies on bodies. The guys have really bought into the system and played well, but this is going to be a different challenge because they have so many guys who can work down the field. It will be interesting to see how we match up, because everybody has to be on their 'Ps and Qs' because anybody who lines up out there can go downtown on you.
Following practice, the Huskers traveled to Universal Studios Florida, visiting a theme park for the second straight day after spending Thursday afternoon at Walt Disney World. Husker players will also have a chance to attend Orlando's other bowl game, the Russell Athletic Bowl, a matchup between Virginia Tech and Rutgers this evening at Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium.
Nebraska continues its Capital One Bowl preparations with a third straight morning practice on Saturday. Following practice, offensive coordinator Tim Beck, defensive coordinator John Papuchis, senior I-back Rex Burkhead and senior linebacker Will Compton will meet the media at the first of two Capital One Bowl press conferences.


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BEYOND OBEDIENCE from a letter to a Novice preparing for final Oblation - by Jim Green
A few more thoughts on Obedience. I'm not sure that they will amount to a coherent apologia, but we have to leave something for faith and hope to do, don't we?
First of all, I think the distinction between Power and Authority is absolutely key. We are all wielders of power, from Stalin and Gaddafi to somebody who is 'accidentally' more powerful in an intimate relationship than his/her partner. By the same token we are all victims of, or - at best - affected by, power.
Power is always a function of the ego's limited view of the world, trying to fulfil its limited agenda. This in turn always results in the objectification, to a greater or lesser degree, of human beings. The play of power frustrates the realisation of the person; the experience of authority generates personhood.
Where do we see power and authority most starkly juxtaposed? Jesus facing Pilate would be hard to beat. As we consider the authority embodied here by Jesus, we get further clues as to what this word (and the reality it stands for) expresses. The shared root is in 'authentic' and 'author'. Jesus here (and anyone else, when they are being truly authentic) is showing his knowledge of who he truly is. He has authority to the extent that he is open to his source and his destination. The Father, who is the author and recipient of his being. Authority often 'loses' the battle with Power. The story of the Passion and of Calvary is a radical re-assessment of winning and losing. He wins the war (for us) 'after losing every battle'.
Having 'lost' the (non)struggle with Power (how else can we describe ending up nailed to a cross?), Jesus continues to exercise authority: "Father, forgive them". Not his own authority, mark. It is the Father who forgives.
So far so good - in a way it's still apple-pie and motherhood, isn't it? What good contemplative is going to argue with this? So let's look at the worries about the Rule and how to live OUR lives 'obediently'.
The Rule is full of archaic punishments, to the point of looking sadistic and scapegoating to a modern reader. This sometimes looks like Obedience at its crudest. It might just be that I'm the world's worst Benedictine, but I deal with these passages in the same way that I deal with parts of the Bible (the Old Testament in particular) which would prescribe and proscribe all kinds of behaviours, nearly all of which are based on cleanliness rituals, obsessed with separation, exclusion and tribe-building. I just let them go. They are clearly anachronisms that don't fit with our current state of development. As with the Gospel, it seems to me that we betray the text if we read it as a set of fixed instructions that we can read directly across into the question of how to live now. Equally, we betray the text if we read it like Sarabaites, parsing the Rule or Scripture to suit our particular belief or psycho-emotional preferences. So we read the Rule (and each other, and God's will and everything else) with "the ear of the heart".
You are probably familiar with the re-definition of Obedience (via 'ob-audire') as 'listening'. Listening towards. As children we are told to 'listen to' our elders and betters. To do what they tell us to do. Once again 'listen' acquires unhelpful layers of meaning. Closing down, not opening up. But the listening that is cultivated in contemplation is nothing like this. It is 'attending to', paying attention. This, in itself, is an act of Love. And it's not a separate 'me' straining to pick up the radio station "Will Of God". As Mother Teresa said, when she listens to God, (s)he listens too. God listening to God. This act of Obedience (sitting in listening) is a simple exposure of ourselves in the faith that we will become more like ourselves, and that we don't know what that is, until it is given.
OK, but does this still mean that we have to 'do what the Abbot tells us?' I don't think so. Certainly not in a blind and unquestioning way. Perhaps our discipline will help us get better at knowing (without thinking about it) who is and who isn't the Abbot, how much Abbot-ness is present in any given human exchange, group, situation... If we're looking for a paradigm of creative disobedience, then look no further than Jesus. Nearly everything he is reported as doing is some form of creative transgression or frustrating of what was expected of him.
And I think that what Jesus says in the Farewell Discourses in John, fundamentally recalibrates how we should now experience our relationship to the source, to true authority. He tells us that we are servants no longer, but friends. A servant does not know what her master is about. This is as radical a recasting of the human lot as there can possibly be. And for me it is of a piece with the fundamental teaching of the Buddha that you must never, never take on some 'truth' about the world, just because somebody tells you it. Anything that is real must be tested through your own experience. We have to find everything out for ourselves!! On the face of it, this looks like a recipe for anarchic, individualist chaos. But for the Teacher Within, it would be. Jesus tells us that we will never be alone; the Spirit will be with us and will teach us everything we need to know. We will come to full consciousness. So we sit in silence and are obedient. Or, we might say, allow the Abbot within to grow.
Many questions, and many more to come. It's difficult to resist Rilke when addressing these all-important (and therefore unanswerable) questions. He tells the young poet who he is addressing in the letter, that in the end we simply have to LIVE the answer to our questions. Rather than reach out in front of us and haul back the solution by the handful, we shall BECOME the answers.
My further thought about obedience is that, at its core, it is the fullest possible acceptance of everything that is present: joy, mystery, boredom, confusion, pain, suffering, death. The cross shows us this. As such, true obedience, like true anything else, is simply Love in action.
Your obedient servant (as they used to say, and I think we should start again),
Jim Green is a UK-based oblate of WCCM.
Jim Green's Blog
Thanks Jim. I thoroughly enjoyed what you wrote. PAX Marie