text:
Most observers are missing the point. When CEO Jamie Dimon announced that JPMorgan Chase had incurred at least $2 billion in losses from risky, unsecured, derivatives-types trading, it uncovered the scandal of our time once and for all.
The Chase disaster gives us a much-needed a glimpse into our corrupt political system, its Wall Street paymasters, and the media voices that allow people like Dimon to escape scrutiny.
The JPMorgan Chase story is the story behind the financial crisis that has thrown millions of people out of work. It's the story behind our ever-growing wealth inequity. It's the story behind Washington's inability to prosecute criminal bankers, regulate reckless ones, and propose the economic solutions the rest of us urgently need.
Predictably, the pundits who aid and abet people like Jamie Dimon are dismissing this story's importance, pointing out that $2 billion (it could become much more) pales against the $19 billion in profit Chase reported last year.
But it was potentially $2 billion earned through crime. And more importantly, this story isn't just about Chase's errors and crimes. It's much bigger than that.
Besides, $19 billion in a single year? That's a big part of the story, too.
The Case Against Chase, its CEO, and its accomplices is too big to cover all at once. Here are the aspects of this under-reported story we plan to address in the days and weeks to come.
The Firm
Depending on the day and the measurement used, JPMorgan Chase is now the largest or second-largest bank in the world. Its Japan operation alone has been cited by that nation's regulators as a systemic risk because of its size.
If Chase began to collapse because of risky betting, the government would be forced to step in again.
Jamie Dimon knows that. It's a lot easier to gamble when you know somebody else will be forced to bail you out if you lose too much.
Chase, like the other mega-banks, has systematically engaged in criminal activity for years. At the same time, it has used its vast wealth to corrupt our political and regulatory systems. And it has been aided and abetted by willing collaborators in the media, every step of the way. It gave up nearly three quarters of a billion dollars in settlements and surrendered fees to settle one case alone – that of bribery and corruption in Jefferson County, Alabama.
Chase has paid out billions to settle charges that include perjury and forgery (in its systemic foreclosure fraud and abuse), investor fraud, and sale of unregistered securities. And these charges were for actions that took place while Jamie Dimon was the CEO.
The first of Dimon's executives have offered their resignations in this latest scandal. But investigations of everyone from Lucky Luciano onward have focused on the boss, not just the underlings. Laws like the Securities Act and Sarbanes-Oxley provide strict legal guidelines for corporate CEOs and their staff. There's strong evidence to suggest those laws have been stretched to the breaking point – and beyond.
The Boss
We may someday look back at Jamie Dimon's increasingly shrill cries of persecution as a cry for help or a plea to be caught. He has not only fought the regulation of Wall Street banks. He's used extreme language to characterize criticisms of bank activities as a) mean, b) an attack on all forms of business, and c) bigotry that is no different from racism.
Dimon has used his visibility – and his lavish public relations budget – to obtain highly flattering profiles of himself in major US publications. And he's used that public platform for, among other things, arguing for unwise ideas in public policy areas where he has no expertise. Most of those ideas involve forcing the American people to suffer additional financial hardship in order to pay for the damage caused by Dimon and his colleagues.
Just last week Dimon was arguing for the "Simpson/Bowles plan" authored by two private individuals, which would impose the same kind of austerity on the United States as that which is currently wreaking economic and poetical havoc on Europe.
If nothing else, Dimon is consistent: He can't respond to reality any more effectively in the policy arena than he can in the banking sector.
Dimon argues against regulation by saying that bankers are moral and sophisticated enough to manage their businesses without oversight. But he's been making those arguments to a nation that's standing in the wreckage his colleagues left behind the last time they were allowed to play with trillions without adult supervision.
And he has somehow managed to argue simultaneously that no other bankers are as smart as he is, and that nevertheless they should be unregulated because guys like him are so smart. That doesn't make sense.
The Flacks
Despite Dimon's illogic and the criminal track record of his organization, he has been flattered, quoted, and profiled in major news publications at roughly the same frequency as Lindsay Lohan has been in entertainment mags, and for the same reason: He makes good copy if you don't dig too deeply.
The day before the scandal broke, in fact, Dimon punked CBS host David Gregory on Meet the Press by pontificating on political and other matters in a pre-taped interview, knowing that this story was about to break tomorrow. We won't knock Dimon for not breaking the story (there are rules about handling information at a publicly traded company, although Dimon never seems to have cared much about them before.)
But it was an embarrassment to Gregory just the same.
The flackery didn't start after this story broke. The supposedly 'hardball' coverage of this '"error" typically amounted to little more than the kind of damage control Dimon and his PR team were no doubt hoping they'd get. The incident was described as an "embarrassment," a "mistake," an "error."
Few news outlets discussed the size of JPMorgan Chase and other too-big-to-fail banks, which continued to grow even after the passage of a financial reform law. They failed to discuss what would happen if the bank got into serious trouble.
And they glided lightly over the fact that crimes may have been committed. When they did, they were quick to characterize this scandal as the work of overzealous or crooked underlings.
That's what they said in Alabama, too.
The Influence Peddlers
Banks have paid Washington lobbyists $50-60 million per year for the last few years – and they've gotten their money's worth.
Real financial reform was hamstrung under Dodd/Frank by behind-the-scenes wheeling and dealing. Even that bill's modest reforms are being undercut by Republicans from Mitt Romney downward, who are determined to avoid even the pretense of regulating the nation's reckless and criminal bank enterprises.
The White House had yet to indict a single banker for the events leading up to the financial crisis, although billions have been paid out it settlement fees for criminal activity.
When you look at it in context, $150-200 million over three years is one of the best investments Wall Street has ever made.
The Watchdogs
The Federal Reserve rescues failed bank executives – often breaking its own rules to do it – and yet cites the same rules when it refuses to help other businesses, or individual consumers, in ways that would do much more to restore the economy. No wonder: The Fed's board includes many of the same bankers who broke the economy – including Jamie Dimon.
Intransigent pro-bank regulators refuse to carry out their own agencies' mandates if it would discommode Wall Street.
And Administration officials meet routinely with double-dealing bankers like Lloyd Blankfein from Goldman Sachs, according to visitor logs, while rarely laying eyes on foreclosed homeowners or other ordinary citizens.
Some of the bank executives they meet with are their own colleagues. There are so many people moving from Wall Street jobs to high government positions – and back again – that our country's center of economic power now resides somewhere on the Amtrak route between New York and Washington. (I'm guessing Metropark, NJ.)
The Solutions
Some people have called for reasonable steps in the wake of this scandal: Tighten banking regulations. Strengthen the Volcker rule. Restore Glass-Steagall. Force Jamie Dimon to
Each of these moves would be a start – but they would only be a start. But the story of Jamie Dimon and JPMorgan Chase illustrates a far deeper, far more systemic problem. They highlight the broken and corrupt matrix of relationships between rich (and often lawbreaking) bankers, politicians and regulators in Washington, and supplicating figures in the national media.
This is an opportunity to explain what's wrong with our system and pursue ways of fixing it. Let's seize the moment now – before it's too late and they break the economy again.


text:
6 Ways to Help an Astronomer
1 July 2010
Space is a big place, and even with their giant telescopes, astronomers just can't cover it all. This is where you come in. Yes, you.
Astronomy is one of the few scientific fields where amateur scientists can, and frequently do, make significant contributions. But now space scientists are increasingly also looking to people with little or no training for help with their research. Sometimes they are looking for free labor for tasks that humans can still do better than computers, like identifying different types of galaxies. Other times it's numbers of eyes on the sky or feet on the ground they're after. But more and more, they are finding ways to get regular citizens involved.
Amateur astronomers and regular folks have already had an impact on the science by making observations of fleeting cosmic phenomena that would have otherwise gone unnoticed.
When an asteroid or a comet hit Jupiter in July 2009 and then again earlier this month, amateur astronomers in Australia and the Philippines were the first to notice. Amateurs have invented new telescopes, kept tabs on variable stars and discovered comets. And you don't even need any fancy equipment.
"We can learn a lot from someone taking a cellphone video of a meteor as it burns up in the atmosphere," said Bill Cooke of NASA's Meteoroid Environment Office.
But what if you're not the lucky one who is in the right place at the right time? You are still needed. Citizen scientists have also become crucial for helping astronomers with one of their most intractable problems: too much data, too little time.
Here are some astronomy projects you can take part in right now, while you wait for your iPhone to capture a meteor.
Read More http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2010/06/citizen-space-science-gallery/all/1#ixzz0sQNNdxuu
Search IYA2009 Updates
National Nodes: 148
Organisational Nodes: 40
Organisational Associates:33
National Websites: 111
Cornerstone Projects: 12
Special Task Groups: 11
Special Projects:16
Official Products:8
Media Partners:22

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Best Of
July 26, 2010
At some point in time I promise I will find my energy and once again blog something of substance. I keep yelling "Oly, oly oxen free," hoping that some motivation will come out of hiding and smack me in the face, but it hasn't happened yet. So for now- it's just a family portrait my dad took of all of us on vacation last week. I am so clever- I totally put a kid in front of my stomach in every single picture we took of me in a bathing suit. Yay for my brains! Even though chaos is currently reigning in this house- we can totally pull it together and at least look like one big, happy family for a picture. (Go us!) I think this is the one where Kamron yelled out, "Poopahontas" (like Pocahontas) to make the kids laugh for the picture. Never underestimate the humorous power of a poop joke. I don't care how old you are- poop is funny.
P.S. Anybody out there in blogland going to Blogher in NYC who may like to have a last minute roommate to split a room and hotel costs with? (Yes- I mean me.) Serial killers need not respond.
Like what you read? Join us on Facebook!
Email This
Share to Twitter
Share to Facebook
Share to Pinterest
Newer Post
Older Post


text:
Good morning everyone, Carole here and we are back today after our Summer break with the launch of our September Monthly Anything Goes Challenge. I hope you have missed our challenges and have been busy making some lovely projects in the break to share with us.
We have two great sponsors for this challenge each giving away a very generous prize. Our very talented Design team have been busy as well and have made some fabulous cards to inspire you. I'm sure you will agree, but make sure you take a look.
Odd Ball Art by Lizzie Love
Sharon - Suzy's Tushy Image No. 259
Isobel Josie image no 207
CraftyGirl - "Whimsical Trees"
Prize - winner choice of 3 images
Carole- Christmas Angel
Mel - Jungle Friends
Doris - How Beautiful
I'm sure you agree that these are all amazing so its over to yo now to share your fabulous creations with us...
Just remember these few simple rules
-All projects must be made by you during the time this challenge runs
-you can submit up to 3 projects
-no back dating please
-link your blog post to our challenge
-you can submit up to 3 projects
-no back dating please
-link your blog post to our challenge
This challenge is open until the 25th September
Welcome back and Happy Crafting everyone Carole and the Crafting by Designs Team


text:
When you look at the LG eXpo, the first thought that comes to mind may be "c'mon, it's just another Windows Mobile phone." Yes, the device runs Windows Mobile (6.5, to be exact), but there are some welcome improvements to this device that make it a better unit than past Windows Mobile devices. The projector is quite the neat accessory (though it costs $179 in addition to the device), the 1 GHz Snapdragon processor makes the device snappy at almost everything you throw at it, the fingerprint navigation works well, and the roomy QWERTY keyboard is a good solution for those that e-mail frequently.
The LG eXpo sports a professional silver color motif, with a metal back plate. The left side of the device contains the volume rocker, while the microSD card slot, multitasking key, and the camera button can be found on the right side of the device. The top of the unit offers a microUSB charging port (which doubles as a headphone jack) and power button, and the front of the device sports the send, end, and back key. A fingerprint navigation sensor can be found on the front as well. I was frustrated that the unit didn't offer a 3.5mm headphone jack, but AT&T does provide an adapter in the box. Additionally, I found the fingerprint navigation system challenging to use at times; due to the small size of the sensor, it was frustrating when scrolling more than a few lines.
Though not quite as small as some of the other boxes on the market, the box is still relatively small. Inside, you'll find the device, battery, an AC adapter, USB cable (which doubles as part of the charger), hands-free headset, headset adapter, stylus, and an instruction manual. Coming in at 4.45 inches long by 2.16 inches wide by 0.63 inch thick, the device weighs 4.2 ounces, making it a bit heavier than the average device, but nothing major. The eXpo offers a 3.2-inch resistive touchscreen display with 262,000 colors and 480 x 800 pixels. The eXpo offers a sliding QWERTY keyboard, and it is incredibly easy to use when it comes to typing. Not only are the keys spacious, but they're slightly raised and separated, making it easier to text message or e-mail while on the go. Contrary to how the advertisement portrays it, the projector add-on is not included in the box – it is an additional $179.
Usability & Performance
The LG eXpo ships with Windows Mobile 6.5 and LG's S-Class user interface. Microsoft Office Mobile Suite, Microsoft's new My Phone backup service, and improved internet browsing through Internet Explorer are a few of the improvements seen in the new OS. Granted, I like the revised design of 6.5 (though I think more needs to be done), but I've been very pleased with the tweaks found in LG's S-Class UI. If you like it, you can make it the default user interface in the eXpo's settings. With Windows Mobile 6.5 comes Windows Marketplace – a welcome addition, and something that finally places Microsoft in the race. The LG eXpo offers 3G connectivity, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 2.1, and GPS. Additional phone features include quad-band world roaming, conference calling, and voice dialing.
Similar to other Windows Mobile devices, the eXpo offers Microsoft's Direct Push Technology for real-time e-mail, along with the ability to configure POP3 and IMAP accounts. The device offers instant messaging support for AOL Instant Messenger, Windows Live, and Yahoo. As a frequent e-mail user, a good keyboard is crucial, in my opinion – and the LG eXpo's QWERTY is a winner. I'll admit, the on-screen option is a bit cramped, but the physical alternative is comfortable and reminds me of a smaller HTC Touch Pro2.
The LG eXpo offers a 5.0-megapixel camera with a 3x digital zoom, and in our testing, image quality was decent, given the proper amount of light. Additional camera features include a flash and video-recording capabilities. You also have the ability to change the image size, scene modes, white balance, and effects. All in all, a pretty reasonable media set for a mid-range smartphone.
I tested the eXpo in the Charlotte area, and call quality was good. Callers had no problem hearing me, and call quality was clear on my end as well. I had minor fluctuation between 3G and EGDE, but nothing out of the ordinary. When I went to a known AT&T dead spot, calls sounded relatively clear, though callers told me my voice cut out every now and again. I successfully paired my Plantronics Voyager Pro Bluetooth headset to the device, and Bluetooth functions performed admirably. In addition, the eXpo has a strong speakerphone; I tested the device in a busy coffee shop, and could hear my callers well. Though there was a bit of reported background noise, everyone said that they could understand our conversation.
Battery life is estimated at 4 hours of talk time, and just over 17 days of standby time. In my testing, battery life was good. With moderate use encompassing text messaging, calling, e-mail, and the occasional web surfing, I was able to make it about a day and a half before the phone powered off. With little to no use, the device lasted just over four days. As with any device, battery numbers will vary with the level of usage that they're subjected to between charging cycles, but the eXpo should please the business travelers users out there. Just be sure to carry an extra battery or a car charger for the long work days.
The eXpo is a 3G device, meaning that browsing speeds were quite fast. The mobile CNN webpage loaded in about 12 seconds, and the full PhoneDog homepage loaded in 36 seconds. Other data-intensive tasks such as AT&T Navigator, Internet Explorer, and the Windows Marketplace performed well throughout the testing. As I stated earlier, the eXpo is equipped with a 1 GHz Snapdragon processor, making the device peppy in every task that I threw at it.
Is it my favorite Windows Mobile device? No. The HTC Touch Pro2 (or Tilt2 to AT&T customers) still holds that spot due to the larger screen and giant QWERTY keyboard. That being said, the LG eXpo is a a great smartphone option for the business individual that needs to present on the go (though the projector is a separate accessory). Despite some challenges in the responsiveness of the display, It offers strong performance, a good display, and a nice keyboard. Be sure to check it out in store prior to purchase.


text:
Explore Our Hotel
You'll enjoy a comfortable stay and the quality service that you deserve at the Holiday Inn Express® of Bowling Green, Kentucky. Situated off I-65 at exit 22, our hotel's location gives you easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment, as well as to downtown.
Thoughtfully designed for the most distinguished business traveler, our Bowling Green, KY hotel boasts 900 square feet of meeting space. Corporate guests can easily stay connected to the office with the use of our complimentary in-room wired or wireless Internet access, as well as the 24-hour business center.
Our property is great for leisure travelers as well, due to our convenient access to nearby local attractions such as the GM Assembly Plant and National Corvette Museum, Lost River Cave and Valley, Chaney's Dairy Barn, and Beech Bend Park & Splash Lagoon. If you are in town to visit Western Kentucky University, you and your family will be pleased to know that we are only four and a half miles away from campus.
We offer an array of complimentary amenities, including a hot breakfast bar, a 24-hour fitness center, a 24-hour business center and an outdoor swimming pool, open May to September, weather permitting. We provide a name you can trust and the great service you deserve. You can always "Stay Smart" at the Holiday Inn Express® hotel.
- Black-out Shades
- Rollaway Bed/Cot Available
- Crib Available
- Iron/Ironing Board
- Separate Hanging Closet
- In-Room Heating and A/C Controls
Bathroom/Personal Care
- Private Bathroom
- Bathroom Amenities Available
- Hair Dryer
- Bathtub
- Separate/Walk-in Shower
- Separate Vanity Area
In-Room Features
- Mini Refrigerator
- Microwave
- Coffee Maker
- Flat-screen TV
- DVD Player
- iPod Docking Station with Clock Radio
- Work Desk with Lamp
- Desk-level Electrical Outlet
- Cable/Satellite
- Premium Channels
- Stereo/Radio
- Direct-dial Phone
- Phone with Voicemail
- Windows Open by Guest
Added Value
- Connecting Rooms Available
- Complimentary Coffee/Tea Supplies
- Full Breakfast Included
- Breakfast Buffet Included
- Continental Breakfast Included
- Complimentary Coffee in Lobby
- Off-site Restaurant Delivery Available
Business Services
- 1 Meeting Room(s) Available
- On-Site Business Center
- Printer
- Copier
- Scanner
- Office supplies available
Internet Access
- Free High-Speed Internet in all Rooms
- Wireless Internet service is free for all IHG® Rewards Club members
Entertainment & Recreation
- Outdoor Pool
- Outdoor Pool Hours of Operation: 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Pool Open from: 27-May-2016 to 04-September-2016
Health & Fitness
Complimentary Fitness Center
Fitness equipment includes: treadmill, eliptical, stationary bike, free weights, medicine balls, yoga ball and mat.
Hours of Operation: 12:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Fitness Center Type: LIMITED
Fitness Center Equipment:
- Treadmill
- Elliptical Machines
- Stationary Bicycle
Housekeeping & Laundry
- Daily Housekeeping
- On-site Guest Self-Laundry Facilities
- Hours of Operation: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Added Value
- Wake Up Calls
- Ice Machine
Hotel Details
165 Three Springs Road
Bowling Green, Kentucky 42104
United States
Check In: 3:00 PM
Check Out: 12:00 PM
Check-in Age: 21
Parking + -
- Complimentary Self Parking Available
Shuttle + -
- Bowling Green Shuttle offers ground transportation services to the local and surrounding areas, including service to Nashville's International Airport. Reservations must be made 24 hours in advance.
Accessibility + -
- Public Entrance
- Guest Rooms
- Elevators
- Public Restrooms
- Registration Desk
- Exercise Facility
- Business Center
- Pool
- Number of Accessible Meeting Rooms: 1
Accessible Hotel Areas
- Registration Area
- Accessible Guest Rooms
- Business Center
- Meeting Room
- Exercise Facility
- Pool
Hotel Areas with Accessible Routes from Accessible Public Entrance
- Accessible Self Parking
- Van Accessible Self Parking
- Ramp Access
- Portable Bathtub Seats
- Closed Caption TVs
- Telephone with TDD
- Visual Alarm/Alert in Guest Rooms
- Visual Alarm/Alert in Public Spaces
Provided by Hotel
Pet Policy + -
- Pets Allowed
- Service Animals Allowed
- Pet Walking Area On-site
- Pet Deposit per Stay: 50 USD
- Pets are welcome with a non refundable 50.00 USD pet fee. Each pet must weigh less than 50 lbs. Pet agreement must be signed at check in. Pet may not be left unattended.
Facility + -
- Smoke-Free Facility
- Number of Floors: 3
- Total Number of Rooms: 92
- Number of Non-Smoking Rooms: 92
- Number of Accessible Rooms: 5
- Connecting Rooms Available
Credit Cards + -
- American Express
- Visa
- MasterCard
- Diners Club
- Carte Blanche
- Discover


text:
Lipscomb University golf coach Buddy Harston picked up a $1,500 check and berth in the Senior PGA Professionals National Championship with a sudden death win in the Callaway Golf Tennessee PGA Professionals Senior Section Championship at the Governor's Club in Brentwood, Tenn.
There were 21 golfers in the field with 12 vying for spots in the Senior National Championship. Harston, who fired a one-under 143 for 36 holes, tied with Murfreesboro's Randy Helton for the lead. Harston won the event with a par on the sixth hole of sudden death.
Harston, Helton and Mark Houser from Kingsport, Tenn., all three qualified for the Senior National Championship in Indian Wells, Calif., in October at the Toscana Country Club.
Harston's next tournament is Tennessee PGA Professionals Championship in Franklin, Tenn., at the Vanderbilt Legends Club.


text:
General Dynamics, IBM build NSA program that facilitates dissemination of classified data
About the Author
David Hubler is the former print managing editor for GCN and senior editor for Washington Technology. He is freelance writer living in Annandale, Va.
Printable Format
E-Mail this page
Advanced Search
Don't miss our Aug. 2 Washington Technology Power Training session on Mastering Stakeholder Engagement, where you'll learned the critical skills you need to more fully connect with your customers and win more business.
Read More
In our latest Project 38 Podcast, editor Nick Wakeman interviews Tom Romeo, the leader of Maximus Federal about how it has zoomed up the 2019 Top 100.
Read More
Sign up for our newsletter.
I agree to this site's Privacy Policy.


text:
HONG KONG (Reuters) - The dispute between China and Japan over a desolate jumble of rocky islets in the East China Sea has taken a familiar turn with Beijing deploying a fleet of paramilitary patrol ships while similar Japanese vessels steam out in response.
As in earlier disputes over rocks and shoals in the South China Sea, Beijing is relying on these vessels rather than more menacing warships to assert its sovereignty over the disputed islands known as Diaoyu in China and Senkaku in Japan.
For both sides, the presence of lightly armed paramilitary ships reduces the risk of conflict, maritime experts say, while they retain the option of deploying more firepower if the dispute intensifies.
However, unlike China's recent sparring with the Philippines over Scarborough Shoal, this flare-up pits East Asia's two maritime powers against each other in a confrontation loaded with military risk.
If a clash erupted, experts warn it could be difficult to contain to the disputed area and would likely draw in the United States, Japan's security alliance partner, into hostilities with China.
The U.S. assistant secretary of state for East Asia, Kurt Campbell, said on Thursday the disputed islands were "clearly" covered by a 1960 treaty obliging the United States to come to Japan's aid if attacked.
"I actually don't think the two sides intend to fight a war over the islands this time," said Sun Yun, an expert on Chinese security policy at the Washington-based Stimson Centre.
"But, I do think it is more dangerous because the current round of tension is more emotionally charged than the earlier stand-offs in the South China Sea."
Politics may well keep the row simmering in the months ahead with a Japanese election expected by year's end and China preparing a leadership transition.
While China's maritime rise has captured global attention, Japan has also been quietly and unobtrusively building a powerful navy boasting some of the most advanced military technologies afloat.
If tensions over the disputed islands led to military conflict, it is not clear that China's navy could overpower Japanese forces as easily as it might expect to prevail against militarily weaker rivals in the South China Sea.
For both militaries, a naval clash would be a step into the unknown.
Japan's pacifist Constitution has insulated its navy from combat since it was shattered in the final stages of World War Two.
Modern China's navy is still in its infancy and also has no fighting experience.
In its three-decade military build-up, Beijing has transformed what was a rusting, obsolete, coastal defense force into a blue water navy that is increasingly capable of mounting deployments and complex operations far from the Chinese mainland.
In raw numbers, China is now the world's second-ranked naval power behind the United States with a fleet including about 80 major warships, 53 submarines, 50 landing ships and 86 missile patrol boats.
With a combination of Russian and homegrown hardware, it has deployed multi-ship fleets through the Japanese island chain and out into the Pacific ocean for exercises and training. Its ships have taken part in international anti-piracy operations in the Indian ocean. It has a fleet of advanced conventional submarines.
The most powerful Chinese warships and submarines are armed with deadly, Russian-made supersonic anti-ship missiles. However, the Chinese navy lacks operational training and experience, naval experts say.
Japan's Maritime Self Defense Force is clearly smaller with about 48 major warships and 16 submarines but it remains a formidable force compared with other traditional naval powers.
It has twice as many surface warships as Britain's Royal Navy and twice as many submarines as the French navy.
Some of its key surface warships are equipped with the advanced U.S. Aegis combat system that combines computers, radars and information from other ships, satellites or aircraft to track multiple targets and guide attacking missiles.
Japan's conventional submarines are also regarded as some of the most advanced and stealthiest in the world.
Naval experts say the Japanese navy is also a highly trained professional force that has exercised for decades in its major roles of sea lane protection and anti-submarine warfare. It has also trained regularly with U.S. forces.
If a clash took place in the area of the disputed islands between the Japanese island of Okinawa and Taiwan, both sides could deploy land-based strike aircraft to support their forces.
However, security experts say it is highly unlikely that any fighting would be restricted to naval and air units in the disputed area.
Beijing might tempted to use its huge arsenal of 1,200 ballistic missiles aimed at Taiwan to attack Japanese forces and bases.
If China was the aggressor, they say the United States would almost certainly support Japan.
"I don't think the U.S. could stand aside," said Ross Babbage, a security analyst and former senior Australian defense official. "There would be a huge international crisis and I'm not expecting that."
"And, I don't think either side really wants it."
However, there is always the danger of miscalculation and accident with big fleets of paramilitary patrol vessels on station and civilian protestors from both sides making landings on the uninhabited islands.
This risk is likely to remain, even if the current round of tension eases, maritime security analysts say.
The arrival of China as a naval power means Beijing now has the means to challenge Japan's control over disputed maritime territory in the East China Sea and the oil and gas thought to lie beneath.
Reporting By David Lague, editing by Bill Tarrant


text:
Hermit Thrush
Catharus guttatus
About This Animal
SIZE: 6.75 inches
RANGE: Widespread across North America
HABITAT: Coniferous or mixed woodlands, thickets
DIET: Insects, berries and fruit
ON EXHIBIT: Cove Forest in River Journey
Both sexes are mostly pale brown with a creamy white breast containing small black spots concentrated on throat and breast. This species of brown thrush has a reddish tail which it constantly flicks along with its wings.
This is the only species of brown thrush that regularly spends the winter in our area. On it's breeding territory its flute-like call is considered among the most beautiful of bird songs. Breeds in the SE US in the high Appalachians.


text:
Buying a home is likely to be the biggest financial transaction you'll make. Make sure you know exactly what you're buying.
Before you spend £100,000s on a new property, you'll want to know exactly what you are purchasing to ensure that it is worth the price, and that there are no nasty surprises. Countrywide Surveyors operate one of the largest and most trusted property surveying and valuation practices in the UK.
Use a Valuation Report to find a financial and market value of a property:
If you are buying an older or larger property, a Building Survey includes Homebuyer plus:
Suitable for standard properties, Homebuyers Surveys feature:
We can offer other property surveys / valuations including:


text:
Hi all,
i am new to java and this forum. I am hoping i can get some help with the below program:
Write a program that reads integers, finds the smallest of them and counts its occurrences. Assume that the input ends with number 0. Suppose that you entered 6 2 5 2 2 3 0; the program finds that the smallest is 2 and the occurrence count for 2 is 3.
Hint: maintain two variables min and count. Min stores the current min number and count stores its occurrences. Initially assign the first number to min and 1 to count. Compare each subsequent number with min. If the number is less than min, assign it to min and reset count to 1. If the number is equal to min increment count to 1.
Below is what i have started:
import java.util.Scanner;
public class Integers {
/** Main method */
public static void main(String[] args) {
// Create a Scanner
Scanner input = new Scanner(System.in);
int times = 1;
int count = 1;
int min; // The smallest of the integers entered
int minNumber = 6;
// Read an initial data
"Enter an int value (the program exits if the input is 0): ");
int data = input.nextInt();
int minimum = data;
// Keep reading data until the input is 0
int sum = 0;
while (data != 0) {
sum += data;
// Read the next data
"Enter an int value (the program exits if the input is 0): ");
data = input.nextInt();
//i am not sure where in the program to put in the check for each number against the min number and reset the count as per question above??
if (data < minNumber)
minNumber = data;
//keep getting 0 for smallest number but do not want to include the 0 as this is just for exiting the input of integers??
System.out.printf( "Smallest Number is %d\n", minNumber );
//not sure if below correct either but i think i am close!!!
for (int i = 0; i < 100; i++)
if (minNumber > 1){times++;}
System.out.println("Number " + minNumber + " occurs " + times + " Times ");


text:
Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC, 中國工商銀行) knocked US oil giant ExxonMobil from its perch as the world's biggest public company on Wednesday to take the No. 1 spot on the Forbes Global 2000 list for the first time.
Underscoring the power move by Chinese companies to top global rankings, China Construction Bank (CCB, 中國建設銀行) leaped 11 spots from last year to the No. 2 spot on the Forbes list of the world's largest public companies.
"This year's list again reveals the dynamism of global business," said Scott DeCarlo, the list's editor.
Forbes said that ICBC and CCB were bumped higher in the ranks by double-digit growth in both sales and profits last year, although annual profit growth for both banks was the slowest rate since they went public.
ICBC brought in US$37.8 billion in profits on US$2.8 trillion in assets last year, while CCB earned US$30.6 billion on US$2.2 trillion in assets.
"Most analysts don't expect a banking crisis in China, but rising defaults and shrinking loan profitability are serious threats to the country's banking system," Forbes said.
The rankings of the Forbes top 2000 are determined by an equal weighting of sales, profits, assets and market value.
Wall Street bank JPMorgan Chase, the world's biggest company in 2011, slipped from No. 2 last year to No. 3 this year as sales dipped.
US conglomerate General Electric Co moved down a notch to the fourth spot.
US oil and gas giant ExxonMobil tumbled from its one-year reign at the top last year to the No. 5 spot, despite being the world's most profitable company for the second year in a row with US$44.9 billion in net income, Forbes said.
Apple Inc, which has vied with Exxon over the past year for the title of the world's most valuable company by market capitalization, was tied at No. 15 with Wal-Mart Stores.
Wal-Mart reclaimed the top perch as the word's sales leader with 5.0 percent growth, toppling Dutch-Anglo energy firm Royal Dutch Shell.
Germany's Allianz SE, South Korea's Samsung Electronics CO, and US-based AT&T Inc joined the 25 top-ranked companies. Allianz gained the most ground, rising to No. 25 from No. 50 in last year's list.
By country, the US, adding 19 members, continued to dominate the list with 543 members, its highest total since 2009.
Japan lost seven members, but at 251 remained the second-biggest country on the list.
For the first time since the list began in 2004, the number of Chinese companies on the list did not increase, but the country still had the third-largest presence with 136 members, Forbes said.
Forbes highlighted three Asian countries that showed standout overall growth in the list: Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia.
Belgium, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates had the biggest rise in company market values, growing by double digits from a year ago.
Eleven countries had only one firm on the list, including New Zealand, the Czech Republic and Vietnam.
Forty-one Taiwanese companies have been ranked among the top 2,000 companies this year, with Hon Hai Precision Industry Co (鴻海) taking the lead in 113th place.
The result represents a remarkable leap for the world's largest contract electronics maker, which was ranked 156th last year.
The second-highest-ranking Taiwanese firm is Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (台積電) at 227th, followed by Fubon Financial Holding Co (富邦金控) at 444th, Quanta Computer Inc (廣達) at 567th and Cathay Financial Holding Co (國泰金控) at No. 610, Forbes said.
Additional reporting by CNA


text:
VIDEO, GALLERY: Experts confirm 'family of tornadoes'
Experts from the Bureau of Meteorology believe ''a whole family of tornadoes'' hit the NSW South Coast early Sunday morning, with four separate twisters now reported.
Attention focused on serious property damage in Kiama in the immediate aftermath of the storm, but there are also tell-tale trails of destruction at Gerroa, Jamberoo and Albion Park Rail.
Andrew Treloar, the bureau's manager of weather services NSW, toured the region yesterday and confirmed damage in Kiama and Gerroa was the result of tornado activity.
He said the Kiama tornado was likely a category F1, or moderate, on the six-tiered Fujita scale of tornado intensity, with F0 the least intense and F5 the most destructive.
''The system down here [in Gerroa] was even stronger – in our preliminary assessment, at least an F2. There's no doubt in my mind now that we're seeing tornadoes.
''There seems to have been a whole family of tornadoes spawned by this weather system.''
The F2 rating is for ''significant'' tornadoes, with wind speeds of between 181 and 252km/h.
Mr Treloar examined the pattern and extent of damage to the region with the bureau's manager of severe weather services, Michael Logan.
VIDEO: Kiama's path of destruction
The bureau's interest in the tornado activity is scientific, and is also geared towards better calibrating its warning services so forecasters can relate what they see on their charts to what is happening on the ground.
Mr Treloar said the Kiama damage couldn't be attributed to lesser phenomena such as a waterspout or a microburst – though these may have also occurred as part of wider extreme weather event.
The system that spawned the tornadoes registered in Sydney about midnight and is thought to have made landfall in Kiama soon after 3am Sunday.
GRAPHIC: How tornadoes form. Click to see a larger version.
The Kiama weather station, which is about a kilometre from the tornado's path, recorded wind speeds of less than 90km/h, but speeds would have been far greater closer to the twister.
''We're thinking at least 125km/h, and there's pockets where it would have been stronger than that,'' Mr Treloar said.
Mr Treloar said tornadoes were ''not uncommon'' in Australia but often went under-reported – particularly when they hit unpopulated areas.
The bureau has yet to finalise its ratings for events at Kiama and Gerroa, and investigators had yet to visit Jamberoo and Albion Park Rail late yesterday afternoon when contacted by Fairfax Regional Media.
'Mother Nature really hates me'
Lucinda Knapp from Coolangatta has lived through three earthquakes – one in Japan in 1996 and the two that devastated Christchurch.
But Sunday morning's wind storm was even scarier.
Ms Knapp grabbed her daughter Pallas from bed as they fought their way out of the building in which they lived as it was crushed by falling trees.
Their survival instincts took over as they headed for the door that had been torn away in the storm.
Windows were smashed, howling wind and driving rain whipped at them as they climbed, barefoot in the dark, through a tangled mess of smashed gum trees, steel and glass.
Once free they were soaked and surrounded by the remains of a stand of trees that lay horizontally all around them.
They made their way to shelter in a nearby house on the Coolangatta property.
"Trees were falling on the unit and the building was starting to flood," Ms Knapp said.
"The door blew off and we could hear trees falling all over us.
"It was scary, we feel lucky to be alive," she said.
Ms Knapp said it was the worst natural disaster she had been in and she has been in some large ones.
"This was a tornado, I've been in an earthquake in Osaka, Japan in 1996, both earthquakes in Christchurch and this was scarier.
"Mother Nature really hates me.
"I don't think I've got any lives left after this," she said.
Discuss "VIDEO, GALLERY: Experts confirm 'family of tornadoes'"
Please note: All comments made or shown here are bound by the Online Discussion Terms & Conditions.


text:
Translation Disclaimer
The Emergency Medical Service Division's primary focus is to develop a community based education program and partnership to emphasize injury and illness prevention, to ensure personnel are trained on the advanced medical standards, to ensure the community's good health and welfare, and to ensure that all care rendered will meet the communities' expectations and satisfaction.
The Mission of the Emergency Medical Services Division is to deliver an effective pre-hospital care and treatment program to the Berkeley community in order to reduce personal loss suffered from unexpected injury or illness.
The Berkeley Fire Department Paramedic Service Plan was developed in 1985; since that time the provision of emergency medical services to citizens in need has become a key aspect in the Department's services.
When an initial call is received, a fire company is dispatched from the closest fire station; these firefighters are trained Paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and are able to begin the evaluation and initial treatment. At the same time an ambulance staffed by Firefighter/Paramedics is also dispatched to the scene; the paramedics are able to provide further treatment, stabilize the patient, and transport to an appropriate medical facility. During 2010, there were over 8,300 medical calls.
Captain Colin Arnold
Instructions for requesting a Patient Care Report: A patient care report is generated whenever the Berkeley Fire Department assists a sick or injured person. These reports contain confidential medical information and are NOT part of the public record.
Copies of patient care records are available to our patients and/or their authorized representatives.
The Berkeley Fire Department Emergency Medical Services policies and procedures for the release of patient care reports comply with restrictions specified under federal law. There is a $20 fee to obtain a copy of a patient care report.
To obtain a record, bring the completed form below along with payment to Berkeley Fire Department Administration Offices. For questions, please contact the Berkeley Fire Department at 510-981-5538, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.


text:
Kitchen Cabinet Organizing Ideas
Kitchen Cabinet Organizing Ideas – The kitchen kitchen cabinet organizing ideas is the heart of a home. There can be a variety of reasons why the people have such opinions about kitchen cabinet organizing ideas. For some, it is a platform to create something new, or else to make memories. The cooking area is the most crucial part of our homes as we have to spend a lot of time over there because eating has become a habit that has made everyone who just can't deny food. This for this habit to keep on going, the cooking area has to be proper in its functionality and accessibility. Modular kitchens with kitchen cabinet organizing ideas are a trend these days, they have made cooking easy. When people invest in kitchenettes, they ensure that it's classy, stylish and contemporary, and moreover of their convenience, and that their money won't go in vain. Modular cook house and kitchen cabinet organizing ideas has revolutionized the interior decor of the house. Design ideas for the kitchen now, come with easy handling and easy installation that ensures their use in our daily lives and future too.
A top modular kitchen interior design sees recessed lighting replaced by various types of lights and chandeliers suspended from the ceiling, often above the center island or dining area. This lighting trend with kitchen cabinet organizing ideas allows for a more personal touch when it comes to style and design. This trend also enables you to get the most out of your floors and kitchen tops, highlighting their depth of color, or natural shimmer and shine. A highlight of natural materials in the kitchens adds longevity and diversity, allowing one to custom design with kitchen cabinet organizing ideas elements throughout the kitchen that will last a lifetime.
Alluring Kitchen Cabinet Organizing Ideas and Kitchen Cabinet Organizers Pictures Ideas From Hgtv Hgtv. Elegant Kitchen Cabinet Organizing Ideas and The Most Amazing Kitchen Cabinet Organization Ideas. Creative of Kitchen Cabinet Organizing Ideas and Kitchen Cabinet Organization Ideas Newlywoodwards. Nice Kitchen Cabinet Organizing Ideas and Kitchen Cabinet Organizers Kitchen Cupboard Ideas Hardware. Inspiration of Kitchen Cabinet Organizing Ideas and Outstanding Kitchen Cabinet Organizer Ideas Interesting Models Of. Perfect Kitchen Cabinet Organizing Ideas and 13 Brilliant Kitchen Cabinet Organization Ideas Glue Sticks And.
When again we as to the writer of this article on this blog say many thanks for prepared to check out our website In the event you find a photo that is protected by copyright laws, you can directly contact us and we will immediately eliminate it. We do not intend to screen images that are already copyrighted. We want to hope you will get the best picture which you have chosen and can give an idea for your home that is comfortable for you. Hopefully, a picture gowns about Kitchen Cabinet Organizing Ideas, can be an inspiring image for your home. Many thanks. To get more details about Home design ideas with kitchen cabinet organizing ideas visit nanamoondesigns.com


text:
Friday, February 5, 2010
Over the gold cap. So what?
A few days ago I finally passed the "Gold Cap". Back in September I had less than 50K. Today I have over 218K.
So what the hell does all this mean? Nothing really. It's actually very anticlimactic. In fact I didn't really try hard to make gold recently. Thanks to my OCD I feel compelled to do my daily Auction House business so this allowed me to make at least 1K a day without trying too hard. In all, I probably spend about 30 minutes daily managing crafting, searching the AH, buying cheap mats, posting and emptying the mailbox. That's too much time if you ask me.
Now, all this gold is spread across several different characters, with my bank alts having most of it. In reality I only reached the psychological gold cap, meaning the limit for a single character, so I could potentially reach multiple "gold caps" in the future on each character. I won't make a conscious effort though.
Another issue is what am I going to do with all this gold? I've been thinking hard about this and I can't find a good answer. At least there shouldn't be anything that I could want for in World of Warcraft. On the other hand I'm not gonna spend tons of cash on crap. I'm so tight-fisted that I won't even get my alts epic mounts. But that's a topic for another occasion.
One thing that I will probably do is slowly buy the remaining vanity pets that I need for my hunter, you know, the expensive ones.
My big plan is to keep over 200K gold until Cataclysm hits. There's no knowing what cool money sinks Blizzard will add, so I want to be prepared.
Now don't hate on me for being rich in WoW. I'm poor in real life so it compensates.
8 comments:
- Magpawacar said...
Congratulations Darth. It's an achievement to be proud of. I've spent about 100k on stuff and mats for alts, main chars etc etc but have made tht all back again easily enough. Just keep doing the odd auction and you'll recoup any money you spend.
And like yourself I'm saving a shedload for cataclysm, maybe even just to try for a world first once that kicks in.
- February 6, 2010 at 7:50 AM
- Darth Solo said...
Thanks! You know, the more money you have, the easier it is to make more. That's how it is in WoW and that's how it is in real life. Unfortunately, in real life I can't make more because I don't have enough :))
I won't be spending any more gold now on, say, epics or mounts or crap like that because the current expansion is almost over and all that gold would be lost. Pets however will always be there.
- February 6, 2010 at 10:25 AM
i've passed about 100k over the "cap"... yesterday i bought a 25man sarth3D mount to help my guild funds for 30k...
- February 6, 2010 at 10:45 AM
- Darth Solo said...
How did you buy a raid mount? Did you pay your guild members to carry you through? Sorry but I'm not familiar with how that can be done.
- February 6, 2010 at 11:26 AM
- Celebrandil said...
Yes that's how you do it. Consider it a donation to the guild bank. ^^
Darth you could buy some new epic gear with that money, I believe the crafted epics from ICC25 are BoE and iLvl264.
- February 8, 2010 at 1:17 AM
- Edgar said...
Wow, amazing. I have trouble keeping my funds above 1000. Congrats.
- February 8, 2010 at 12:36 PM
- Darth Solo said...
@Celebrandil yeah I could but what for? I'm overgeared for heroics and I draw the line at raids. At level 85 most, if not all, of this gear will be obsolete, especially after a few lv.85 heroics. Truth be told, I'm also become a bit tired of pimping my Hunter. Now I'm all about the Priest :D
@Edgar you're not trying hard enough!
- February 8, 2010 at 9:25 PM
Congratulations Darth,
I have a question for you, I recently burned my self down to zero to buy my Epic flight. I am slowly in the process of building myself up to my former level of about 5k gold.
I have some questions that you may be able to help me with that involve market fixing and the like with regards to WoW. I would appreciate if you dropped me an email.
I am looking to build everything back up to at least 100k prior to cataclysm.
I love your blog and thanks again.
- February 9, 2010 at 12:40 PM


text:
This is the privacy policy sample page.
It was created automatically and do not substitute the one you need to create and provide to your store visitors.
Please, replace this text with the correct privacy policy by visiting the Customers > GDPR > Privacy Policy section in the backend.
Availability: Out of stock
- To address in:
Free shipping on purchases over £250.00
100% Price Match Guarantee
If you find the exact same rug cheaper anywhere else we will match the price guaranteed.


text:
Epiphany Games is heading over the GDC this year. If you would like to meet with Epiphany Games that can be arranged. We have some exciting post GDC announcements. We hope 2017 is the year were we really hit the ground running, our team has done a huge amount of work on our new properties.
New Technology
New IP
There are several projects we are working on, we cannot disclose at this time but soon will be able to talk about them. Blood of Sol is being taken to GDC to see what some of our publishing partners think about it.
This is a new IP developed by founders of Epiphany Games. Blood of Sol is a rich and detailed Sci-fi setting. We have one title in development in the setting now, and screen shots will be released around November or Sooner. We have also commissioned Concept art to be created. Blood of Sol encapsulates what we want to do in our games and settings, it actually was developed before Majestic Nights and the two settings are linked by virtue of a common RPG system and possible a common world and history. Its been a great pleasure to see this setting come to life in the project, and see it happen quite quickly. More
Majestic Nights
Read about it on the official site www.majesticnights.com


text:
Origen was born in Alexandria around 185AD and died around 254AD.
He was appointed head of the Cathetical School in Alexandria by Bishop Demetrius.
In 230AD he was ordained in Palestine without the authority of Demetrius who subsequently expelled him from Alexandria.
Parts of his teaching were anathematised at the Fifth Ecumenical Council in 554AD.


text:
Optimumperformance needed a new logo design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 52 designs submitted by 10 freelance designers.
Optimum Performance Clinic
Since 2003, OPC has created an environment of camaraderie which expects and delivers a higher standard for human performance. Working with clients from 4 years old to 94 years old. Helping people recover faster from sports injuries, work injuries, surgical prevention, post-surgical rehab. Working with people to regain strength and movement after an injury. Enhancing performance of athletes from youth to professionals in any sport (work with NFL, NHL, NBA, MLB, MLS and Olympic athletes). Improving quality of life through performance training for non-competitive adults who want to look and feel great. Exclusively offering EVOSPORT training and ARPwave therapy in one facility.
*Professional & Olympic level athletes who are injured and want to make a rapid return or healthy athletes who are seeking to raise their game to a higher level.
*Youth-College Athletes with the same goals as above.
*Non-Competitive Athletes who want to look better, feel better, perform better.
Whether they have aches and pains they want to be free of or serious about achieving a healthy body compositition.
Foremost, I'd like a designer to build a logo that represents precision, excellence, engineered results. If I knew what that looked like I'd have drawn it myself. However I will know it when I see it!!!
1) I'd like a logo with the letters "OPC".
2) Integrate the words into another version.
3) Integrate letters, full name and slogan into a 3rd version.
4) work must be completely original as the product will be going for trademark.
5) this logo is going to be used for: website, business cards, clothing, bags, stationary, etc. I want it to exemplify the BEST!
6) attached images are simply what we have used in the past. this project is an effort to further differentiate OPC from the corporate body of our program: ( http://www.arpwave.com/clinic and http://www.ultrafitevosport.com )
7) The logo needs to have staying power, not trendy or fad font or lines. 30 years from now I want this to be relevant.
8) Slogan: will be added later.
9) If I was a graphic designer I'd probably have more direction, if something comes to mind as far as a graphic or image detail show me your ideas...open to exploration!
10) will consider guaranteed prize and increases in prize based on performance and interest in submissions with in first 5 days.
11) I would like to have the following high res files if possible:
vector file
12) the colors in the attached jpg are what we want to work with.
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.


text:
UPDATE: January 23, 2013
On Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Defense announced that it would lift the ban on women in combat. This landmark decision reverses the 1994 "direct ground combat rule," which held that "women shall be excluded from assignment to units below the brigade level whose primary mission is to engage in direct combat on the ground."
The policy change is long overdue. The last few decades had made the ban largely irrelevant; increasing counterinsurgency warfare virtually erased the concept of combat front lines and female soldiers' contributions to the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq were undeniable. The policy had nevertheless continued to officially exclude women from 7.3 percent of army positions, largely in Infantry, Armor, and Special Forces. More importantly, it had limited women's career paths and promotion opportunities and contributed to gendered stereotypes about war as ultimately "the business" of men.
The decision to remove the exclusion now is a sound one based on careful consideration of several factors. Specifically, there was increasing support from within the military leadership -- including from Leon Panetta, Secretary of Defense, and Martin Dempsey, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, who had both acknowledged that now is the time to remove gender-based barriers to service. There have also been distinct changes in public attitudes about women's capabilities and roles in war. According to a Washington Post-ABC News poll, the vast majority of Americans support allowing women into combat roles. Meanwhile, studies by the U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine and the U.S. Government Accountability Office, along with various military and academic experts, have dispelled myths about women's impact on unit cohesion and their physical abilities. It could not have hurt, of course, that the Department of Defense is facing a lawsuit from several female service members (backed by the American Civil Liberties Union) who rightly claim that the exclusion was discriminatory and unconstitutional.
By changing the policy now, the Department of Defense is recognizing women's contributions to the wars in Iraq and
Loading, please wait...


text:
Corona, Calif. – Takeda USA announces the release of a Dual Cat-Back Exhaust System for the 2008- 13 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, L4-2.0 (t), P/N 49-36701.
In recent testing this system produced 17 horsepower and 20 lbs. x ft. of torque. This exhaust starts out with an OE style flange and uses three inch mandrel bent, 304 stainless steel tubing and merges into dual 2.5" tubing which improves performance across the power band. The dual, high flow, polished 304 stainless steel mufflers give an aggressive sound at high RPM's, yet maintaining a subtle tone at cruising speeds. To finish off this 100% TIG-welded exhaust are dual, four inch Takeda laser etched, double wall 304 stainless steel tips. This exhaust is a direct bolt on system which requires no cutting or drilling and includes all necessary hardware for a hassle free installation. Mitered collectors decrease turbulence and increase exhaust velocity resulting in increased horsepower, torque and improved throttle response. High quality OE style flange and band clamps are used for a complete 360 degree sealing surface. Dual free- flowing mufflers are used to absorb high pitch tones producing a powerful sound and accessing all available horsepower and torque.
P/N 49-36701 retails for around $1254.75 and is available in stores now.
For more information on this or any other aFe product, please visit our website at www.aFepower.com or contact our Power Professionals at (888) 901-7693.


text:
AVEENO® products are formulated with naturally active ingredients to provide real skincare benefits. Try our interactive product selector to help you find the right AVEENO® product for you.
The AVEENO® brand is committed to advancing the science of naturally active ingredients in skincare.
Dry skin is very common but it can be effectively managed with the right skincare routine.


text:
Guest Writer: Jennifer Gilbert, Chief Marketing Officer @ I:CO
Did you know that almost every piece of your clothing or pair of shoes is reusable or recyclable? It's true but every year, billions of pounds of these items end up in our landfills, causing harm to our planet. American Eagle Outfitters and I:CO (a global closed loop textile recycling company) want to help change this by making it easy, convenient and instantly rewarding for everyone to give their unwanted clothing, shoes, and accessories new life.
"Live Your Life. Save Your Planet." Collection Box.
Starting today, you can drop off those old kicks, that worn-out pair of jeans or hopelessly out of style threads into I:CO boxes at any of the 800+ American Eagle Outfitters US and Canada stores. In return, you'll be rewarded with a text code for $5 off a pair of AEO jeans. Every item collected helps the planet, and any proceeds from the program will be donated to the Student Conservation Association, empowering new generations of environmental leaders. What happens to the items once I:CO receives them? We re-utilize, renew and regenerate them. Items are sorted using over 350 different criteria to determine their most effective next use. This could be finding a new home as second hand clothing, reuse as cleaning cloths, recycling into fibers for carpet padding and insulation for the building and automotive industries or up-cycling into new fabrics and products. This is what we call "closing the loop."
I:CO Team sorting thru the donated clothes
My hands with recycled fiber
Finished product- Cotton T-shirt
The vision is for all products to be designed with future uses in mind, so materials can be 100% reused in a truly endless cycle. By doing this, we will eliminate waste, preserve vital material resources, protect our environment, and enable everyone to consume in a more sustainable way. It all starts with making a simple change in behavior. We are excited about the impact the "Live Your Life. Save Your Planet." recycling program will have on American Eagle Outfitters communities throughout North America. I believe each of us has the power to change our environment. So go clean out your closet and come help us build a better world.
Recycle. Reward. Renew. Repeat.
To learn more, please visit www.ico-spirit.com.


text:
The value of Iowa farmland rose 7.7% from March until September, according to a survey conducted by the Iowa Farm and Land Chapter #2 REALTORS Land Institute. Couple that gain with the 10.8% rise found in the September-March survey indicates a statewide average increase of 18.5% for the year ending September 1. All nine Iowa crop reporting districts showed an increase. The district gains ranged from 5.0% in south central Iowa to an increase of 10.8% in the southwest district for the March to September period.
The survey pegged the statewide average value of high-quality cropland at $10,445 an acre, the first time the statewide average has exceeded $10,000 an acre. The average value of medium-quality cropland was pegged at $7,877 an acre while the value of low-quality cropland was placed at $5,314 an acre. Non-tillable pasture is pegged at $2,518 an acre, up 7.7% for the six-month period. Timber land was pegged at a statewide average of $2,089 an acre, up 2.9% for the six-month survey period.
The northwest district reports the highest average price for high-quality cropland at $11,908 per acre. The lowest average value is found in the south central district at $7,822 an acre. Seven of the nine crop districts report an average value in excess of $10,000 an acre in the value of high-quality cropland.
Send me an email if interested in seeing a copy of my newsletter, LandOwner.


text:
Logicalis and Cisco's strategic partnership spans in excess of 20 successful years, in which time we've embraced Cisco's most advanced solutions and innovative technology advancements.
Our partnership has the benefit of combining leading technology products with a proven delivery and services team to provide robust, reliable and cost effective solutions to meet our customer's organisational needs. This includes the ability to provide a full design, implementation, operational support and, if required, service outsourcing of Cisco Network Infrastructures.
As a long-time Cisco Gold Partner, Logicalis has the expertise and experience required to:
- Bring together voice, video and data seamlessly and securely over wired and wireless networks.
- Design and implement networking solutions that meet our customers' technical and business requirements, with a focus on maximising ROI.
- Help our customers implement advanced applications to fully leverage the capabilities of their converged networking environments.
- Design and implement data centre solutions, including storage area networks (SANs) and application acceleration.


text:
DEP Awards $17.8 Million in Grants for Recycling Programs
Harrisburg – The Department of Environmental Protection announced today that it has awarded $17.8 million in recycling grants to 131 municipalities and counties for developing and implementing recycling programs.
"Recycling plays a key role in improving Pennsylvania's economy and protecting its environment," DEP Secretary Mike Krancer said. "These grants further that cause, and DEP is proud to invest in local programs that help the awardees strengthen their recycling programs."
Through the grant program, municipalities and counties in Pennsylvania are eligible for up to 90 percent funding of approved recycling program costs. Municipalities that are designated financially distressed under the Financial Distressed Communities Act are eligible to receive funding for an additional 10 percent of approved costs.
Examples of eligible projects include operating compost facilities; developing web-based programs on recycling for consumers; expanding recycling processing facilities; installing data collection systems on recycling vehicles; continuing and creating curbside recycling programs; and developing educational materials to encourage residents to recycle.
This is the 53rd round of grants being awarded since the inception of the Pennsylvania Municipal Waste Planning, Recycling and Waste Reduction Act in 1988, also known as Act 101.
Act 101 mandates recycling in municipalities with more than 10,000 residents and those with populations between 5,000 and 10,000 that have population densities greater than 300 people per square mile.
Currently, 440 of Pennsylvania's 2,700 municipalities are required to recycle and provide curbside collection programs.
For more information, visit www.dep.state.pa.us, keyword: Act 101.
Thursday, February 7, 2013
DEP Awards $17.8 Million in Grants for Recycling Programs
DEP Awards $17.8 Million in Grants for Recycling Programs
Posted by Solomon's words for the wise at 2/07/2013 05:13:00 PM


text:
Forms Jobs
If you encounter problems or hazards affecting cyclists and walkers, please report the problem by calling City Link at 311 or (336)727-8000 or online at the City of Winston-Salem website (scroll down the Home Page to City Link).
A City Link mobile application, available for download to your mobile device makes it easier than ever to report problems as you are using streets, sidewalks, and greenways. Please download the City Link App for your mobile device and use it to report maintenance and safety issues as you see them. More information is available on the City Link webpage.
To request sidewalk repairs or new sidewalks, give the CityLink operator the specific street location and the nearest cross streets.
To report vehicles parked on a sidewalk, ask City Link to connect you to the Police non-emergency desk so that an officer can investigate and possibly ticket the offender.
For debris, carts and encroaching greenery on bike lanes and sidewalks, ask City Link to connect you to Code Enforcement. Be prepared to give the address or specific location.
The City of Winston-Salem is working diligently to handle these reports and correct problems.
WS Greenways is a citizen advocacy group working to get more people onto the greenways found throughout Winston-Salem and Forsyth County. The organization is also dedicated to the improvement and expansion of the greenways of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County toward the goal of a network of trails connecting destinations for work, play, school, shopping and more. For more information, go to the WS Greenways website (opens in a new window).
The North Carolina Active Transportation Alliance (NCATA) is a membership-based, statewide advocacy organization promoting non-motorized transportation choices for residents of and visitors to NC. Our members include shop owners, cycling clubs, transportation professionals, local advocacy organizations, elected officials and various individual advocates across the state interested in promoting people-powered transportation. For more information, go to the NCATA website (opens in a new window).
As a nonprofit coalition of local and state citizens, this organization's goal is to work with these individuals transform their communities into great places to bike and walk. Learn more at the Alliance website (opens in a new window).
You can work with your neighbors to reclaim your street and your community and to help to design the transportation system of the future. This organization provides a web-based, online support network for local pedestrian advocacy groups. Learn more at the America Walks website (opens in a new window).
The American Volkssport Association (AVA) has a nationwide, grassroots network of about 300 active clubs presenting more than 3,000 volkssporting events each year. Volkssporting started in Germany and simply defined, is a personal fitness sports and recreation program offering noncompetitive walks, hikes, bike rides, swims, and in some regions cross-country skiing. You may choose your time to start within the start/finish "window" and participate in the sport at your own pace. Walking – also called "volksmarching" – is the most popular of all the volkssporting activities.
Two clubs in this area of NC are the Tarheel State Walkers Volkssport Association and the Winston Wanderers. (These links open in a new window; the linked sites are not part of the City of Winston-Salem.)
Receive E-Mail Notification When New Information is Posted on this PageAs a member, enjoy the benefits of MyCityofWS, including your choice of newsletters, and notifications about events and site updates. Login and Manage Your Subscriptions Now.


text:
Colour: DEF
Clarity: VS+
Weight: 0.12ct
Weight: 1.8g
All Kimaï jewelry is ethically sourced. It starts with lab-grown diamonds, and includes 18k gold and luxury style.
But if your piece doesn't cut it, for whatever reason, contact us
We're confident you'll love your Kimaï jewelry. But if you don't for any reason - and it's unworn, without any marks - we can offer a refund up to 5 days after it arrives.
Unfortunately we can't accept returns on rings, customised or bespoke pieces.


text:
The Rockies on Saturday declined the $12 million option for lefty Brett Anderson. They owe him a $1.5 million buyout. But Anderson is now a free-agent.
So what can the Rockies buy in free agency with that $12 million they're saving on Anderson when they try to replace him in their rotation?
On the surface, Colorado's options are plenty. But there are plenty of restrictions. You can scratch Max Scherzer and Jon Lester and their ilk off the Rockies' wish list. That's too much wishing for the price.
The Rockies also have to face perception. It's more difficult for them to get many free-agent pitches to even consider pitching in Colorado.
That's why Anderson's real value with the Rockies wasn't necessarily his ability — although he certainly has the potential to be a top-rotation pitcher (he could have been their ace next season). The best perk the Rockies had with Anderson was that he was under contract. And he actually seemed like he liked pitching in Denver.
It may have been wiser for the Rockies to pick up Anderson's option, then try to trade him before spring training. If they struck out in trades, the Rox would at least still have a solid starter on the rolls.
But that's in the past. And the Rockies now need a new starting-quality pitcher for their rotation. Otherwise, we'll see the phrase "LHP starting pitcher Yohan Flande…" real soon.
So what are the Rockies' options for free-agent pitchers? Remember: They will pay Jorge De La Rosa, their current ace, $12.5 million per year for the next two. Use that as a guide post.
Here's a list with some guesses, loosely ranked and categorized by the likelihood they'll wear purple next season (estimates are guesses based on similar pitcher's past deals):


text:
I love XNA. I really do. As president of the Game Development Club at my school, we use it and I teach it. But I'm worried about it.
I've always wondered, are there any signs that XNA will ever become more than just a prototyping/arcade game language? I've always gotten the feeling that Microsoft is on the cusp of abandoning it, like they did Managed DirectX. The Xbox Live Arcade is an amazing idea but it's shoved off to the side, well overshadowed by the "real" Xbox games when I feel like it would've had so much more potential, had Microsoft given it more emphasis.
Now with XNA 4.0 CTP for Windows Phone 7 only, it seems to be morphing into some sort of phone-only thing. I'm really unsure about exactly why they are doing that.
What's the current state of XNA, and where is it headed? Is it going into mobile-only, or will 4.0 eventually be released for Xbox and desktop usage?
In other words, is it a language to invest time and money into, or should it be only tentatively developed on, with the constant fear of abandonment? And when I ask this, I'm talking about desktop and Xbox games, as I can pretty clearly see that it is the game framework of choice for the Windows Phone 7 platform.
Since this question is somewhat subjective (but I'm really looking for facts alongside your opinions!) I am making this a CW.


text:
Since 1996, Chicago's Rhythm Rockets have been delivering 100 shows a year of their brand of vintage Rhythm & Blues, with songs influenced by the sax-driven bands of the late 1940s and early 1950's. In keeping with that style of music, the Rhythm Rockets' performances reflect the diversity of Jazz, Rhythm & Blues for which Chicago is famous for.
From original compositions to matchless arrangements of vintage classics, the Rhythm Rockets deliver danceable, high-energy music in an authentic stage show that appeals to audiences of all ages.
The Rhythm Rockets have a song repertoire' that pays tribute to the women who were the pioneers of Rhythm & Blues, a style of music that was dominated by men! The show concentrates on the influential women who dominated the charts during the 1940's, 1950's and 1960's. Some of the great artists covered in their song books are Dinah Washington, Ruth Brown, Etta James, Peggy Lee, Annie Laurie, Ella Mae Morse, Big Maybelle Smith, Nina Simone, Ella Johnson and more.
In their home state of Illinois, the Rockets have performed at the Paramount Arts Center, Navy Pier Grand Ballroom, Willowbrook Ballroom, Woodstock Opera House, Sinnissippi Bandshell- Rockford, Frankie's Blue Room, Rialto Square Theater, House of Blues, Chord on Blues and more. The band held down a monthly residency at one of Chicago's top 5 Jazz venues, the classy Katerina's Supper Club on the first Saturday of each month for 4 years. They currently perform monthly at another premier Chicagoland Jazz venue, Pete Miller's.
In addition, the band has performed in numerous venues across America, recorded and self produced five albums, and had four original songs featured on the FOX-TV show, The Tick in 2001.


text:
Sunday, May 29, 2016
AMPM EXTERMINATORS OFFERS LEADING PUGET SOUND RODENT AND INSECT CONTROL - Docs.com
Choosing between relatively small local companies and the large national firms. The choice usually comes down to cost versus job complexity. DIY pest control around your home and garden whenever possible but there are a few situations that should only be handled by professionals. Consider the following points when evaluating and hiring pest control companies to get the best possible outcome.. Published by Ampm Exterminators. 19 Views, 0 Likes on Docs.com. #pest control #seattle pest control #seattle exterminators #pest exterminators #pest control service #bug
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
Welcome to Bright Beginnings Day Care, LLC
The mission of Bright Beginnings Day Care, LLC is to support families in their parenting and work roles and provide high quality childcare and learning experiences that promote healthy emotional, physical, and intellectual growth for their children.
Bright Beginnings Day Care admits all children regardless of race, color, nationality or religious background. Children with limited physical abilities will be admitted at the discretion of the Administrator and Director.
Information Points
East Troy Chamber of Commerce
Parents Handbook


text: subeman90 57 Report post Posted January 7, 2006 This writeup is from our member Andyjo This car he specifically did is his Impreza Outback. A lot of the things he did to the impreza in this mod would be done to other newer Subaru's like Legacys, Imprezas, Outbacks, Bajas, and Foresters. Enjoy So for some time now every once in a while someone comes on the forums looking for information on how to lift their new gen. subaru. I've descided i'd throw together some of the pics i took when i lifted my impreza for a little help to those who can't quite put it all together. So here it goes: (For all bolt removeage, it's good to soak all of them in some PB Blaster for a day or two before attempting this opperation.. either that or have a very large breaker bar....) First you'll need some suspension components (Fig. 1)from a taller vehicle, i chose a 99 forester. I only got the struts from it, but if you got the springs, already installed, this whole thing would be alot easier. Figure 1 If you have the springs already installed on the struts then skip this step, if not, get yourself a spring compressor (Fig 2). I went to Advenced Auto, and asked if i could rent one, they said sure. Charged me 49 bucks, and if i bring it back, they give me the 49 bucks back. Figure 2 Next you need a vehicle to lift, most likely if you're reading this, it'll be a subaru. I chose to use my car (Fig 3), which happens to be the only car i own. Figure 3 Our next step will be to pop the hood (if you don't know how to do this, turn back now...), take the hub caps off, loosed your lug nuts, and lift the car and put it on jack stands (Fig 4). If no jack stands are available, utilize the local universities supply of bricks, found convienently in the dirt pile on the back side of campus. (Note: Users without hubcaps may skip the hubcap removal step) Figure 4 Your next step will be to disconnect the brake line from the hub, so you don't end up ripping the brake line out when you pull the strut (Fig 5). You will also have to remove the clip attaching the brake line to the strut (Fig 6). Make sure you plug up the brake line (Fig 7) when you take it off, also, because you'll get brake fluid EVERYWHERE. (Note, if you have friends that like to mess with you, keep them away from your brake pedel from this step, till the end) Figure 5 Figure 6 Figure 7 __________________ Now for the fun part, get our your breaker bad/impact gun/10lb hammer, because now we get to remove the Strut-to-Hub bolts! Yay! Simply remove these two bolts (Fig 8) with your chosen anti-bolt weapon. My method was to shove my 1/2 rachet on there, lay down on the ground with my feet up in the wheel well and make alot of aggonizing noises until it came un-done. Figure 8 You're going to want to loosen the large bolt in the center of the strut cap now, or else you'll never be able to loosen it later on. With that done you can now remove the 3 Strut-to-Body nuts (Fig 9) holding the strut in place now. It should look something like Fig. 10 When you get the strut out of the car, this may require some very interesting controsions of your body and the strut-spring assembly. I found it easier to push the strut back into the car, and then pack towards the rear end of the car. When you get it out it should look something like Fig. 11, if not, please seek professional help... not this tutorial... Figure 9 Figure 10 Figure 11 Now, i've found that many people are afraid of spring compressors for some reason... I've found them very easy and enjoyable to use, you just simple put it on the spring (Fig 12), lock the little tabs, and crank down on them w/ a rachet somewhat evenly.. Once you do this you should be able to unbolt the top strut bolt without it flying across your driveway and almost taking out your neighbors Figure 12 Now you should have a bare strut just waiting to be left in your front lawn for a week. It's now a good time to compair the hight differences between your new suspension parts, and the ones you just ripped out of the vehicle. (Fig 13) Figure 13 You can now take the boot off of your old strut and put it on the new one, or you can put a new one on (Fig 14).. but who buys new boots if the originals arn't ripped? :-p With the new boot on and zip-tied to the strut you can line up the compressed spring you just took off, or you can uncompress the stock spring, and compress a new spring (Fig 15). Either way, slap that puppy on there and throw the strut top on, and bolt that sucker down. Now you can experience the joy of trying to uncompress the spring while lining it up with the strut cap. Good times... Anyhow, after you get this done you should have a complete Spring-Strut assembly, ready to go right back into the vehicle (Fig 16). Figure 14 Figure 15 Figure 16 __________________ Now to get the spring-strut back into the car, it pretty much the same as taking it out, except you've got a little more length to deal with. I found that bolting the strut cap up to the body first, was much easier than connecting the hub first. Also, make sure when you put the parts back in to look up the torque specs for your components. (Note: KYB Strut tops have a MUCH LOWER torque rating than standard subaru strut tops). So, now throw in the strut, bolt up the top, line up the bottom, and bolt on the hub (try to get the camber as good as possible..), re-torque the main strut nut, run the brake line back threw the strut, and connect that bad boy back to the caliper. You'll want to bleed your brakes afer all of it is done, because... well. because that's what you do. It also might be helpful to disconnect your swaybar when putting the new strut in, because it's taller, and your swaybar won't like that. So that's about it, do the same thing for all of the struts, and when you get it all done bring it in for an allignment. After you get it all alligned & pretty you should test out your new lift by driving up a large sand pile (Fig 20) Figure 20 Enjoy your new lift! Disclaimer: This is how i did it, i'm sure i forgot stuff, but it'll get you started! Note On the Strut Caps: When installing this lift to an Impreza, you should use Forester Strut Caps in the Front, and Your Impreza Caps in the Rear. This will keep you from buying stuff you don't need! (ie: the rear Forester Caps) All Impreza caps Worked for me.. but it may differ car to car & by the year. 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites


text:
Those people referred to as South Asians, Indo-Canadians or East Indians are one of the most diverse ethnocultural populations in Canada. They trace their origins to South Asia, which encompasses India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Most South Asian Canadians are immigrants or descendants of immigrants from these countries, but immigrants from South Asian communities established during British colonial times also include those from East and South Africa, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Fiji and Mauritius. Others come from Britain, the US and Europe.
In 2011, immigrants from the Philippines represented 13 per cent of new immigrants, followed by immigrants from India (10.5 per cent) and India (10.4 per cent). These three Asian countries accounted for 34 per cent of all new immigrants to Canada in 2011. Census figures on ethnic origin reported that there were more than 1.6 million South Asian Canadians in 2011. In Canada, the 2011 census reported over one million people with Indian ancestry, followed by people with Pakistani, Sri Lankan and Punjabi ancestry.
People referred to as "South Asian" view the term in the way that those from European countries might view the label "European." While they acknowledge that South Asians share cultural and historical characteristics, their basic identification is more specifically tied to their ethnocultural roots. In areas such as Metro Toronto, over 20 distinct ethnic groups can be identified within the large (more than 857,575) South Asian population.
The ethnic diversity of South Asian Canadians reflects the enormous cultural variability of South Asia's people. About half of South Asian Canadians were born in India, where 14 major languages are spoken and hundreds of discrete ethnic groups exist. This pluralism extends to religion; although approximately 80 per cent of Indians are Hindus, over 50 million practise Islam and 15 million practise Sikhism. Many others are Christian or Jain. Islam is the predominant religion in Pakistan and Bangladesh, yet both countries are culturally diverse. A third major world religion, Buddhism, is practised by most Sri Lankans, but large Hindu, Christian and Muslim religious minority groups exist among Sri Lankans as well. Communities established outside South Asia are much more homogeneous, and in each community people have developed a unique identity and way of life that is distinct from any in South Asia.
The first South Asian migrants to Canada arrived in Vancouver in 1903. The great majority of them were Sikhs who had heard of Canada from British Indian troops in Hong Kong, who had travelled through Canada the previous year on their way to the coronation celebrations of Edward VII. Attracted by high Canadian wages, they soon found work. Immigration thereafter increased quickly and totalled 5,209 by the end of 1908; all of these immigrants were men who had temporarily left their families to find employment in Canada. Perhaps 90 per cent were Sikhs, primarily from Punjab farming backgrounds. Virtually all of them remained in British Columbia.
Seeing in them the same racial threat as it saw in Japanese Canadians and Chinese immigrants before them, the BC government quickly limited South Asian rights and privileges. In 1907 South Asians were provincially disenfranchised, which denied them the federal vote and access to political office, jury duty, the professions, public-service jobs and labour on public works. In the following year, the federal government enacted an immigration regulation that specified that immigrants had to travel to Canada with continuous-ticketing arrangements from their country of origin. There were no such arrangements between India and Canada and, as was its intent, the continuous-journey provision consequently precluded further South Asian immigration. This ban separated men from their families and made further growth of the community impossible.
Vigorous court challenges of the regulations proved ineffective, and in 1913 frustration with government treatment culminated in the evolution of the Ghadar Party, an organization that aimed to overthrow British rule in India. The immigration ban was directly challenged in 1914, when the freighter Komagata Maru sailed from Hong Kong to Canada with 376 prospective South Asian immigrants. The continuous-ticketing requirement that was enacted to prevent immigration from ships such as the Komagata Maru had the desired effect and prevented immigration of its passengers: the ship had not arrived directly from India but had come to Canada via Hong Kong, where it had picked up passengers of Indian descent from Shanghai, Moji and Yokohama. Immigration officials isolated the ship in Vancouver harbour for two months, and it was forced to return to Asia. Revolutionary sentiment thereafter reached a high pitch, and many men returned to India to work for Ghadar.
The federal government's continuous-journey provision remained law until 1947, as did most British Columbia anti-South Asian legislation. Because of community pressure and representations by the government of India, Canada allowed the wives and dependent children of South Asian Canadian residents to immigrate in 1919, and by the mid-1920s a small flow of wives and children had been established. This did not counter the effect of migration by South Asian Canadians to India and the US, which by the mid-1920s had reduced the South Asian population in Canada to about 1,300.
During the 1920s, South Asian economic security increased, primarily through work in the lumber industry and the sale of wood and sawdust as home heating fuel. In addition, a number of lumber mills were acquired by South Asians, two of which employed over 300 people. The effects of the Great Depression on the community were severe but were mitigated by extensive mutual aid. By the Second World War, South Asians in British Columbia had gained much local support in their drive to secure the vote, especially from the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation. In 1947, the British Columbia ban against voting, as well as other restrictions, were removed.
Faced with the coming independence of India, the federal government removed the continuous-passage regulation in the same year, replacing it in 1951 by an annual immigration quota for India (150 a year), Pakistan (100) and Ceylon (50). At that time there were only 2,148 South Asians in Canada. Moderate expansion of immigration increased the Canadian total to 6,774 by 1961, then grew it to 67,925 by 1971. By 2011 the South Asian population in Canada was 1,567,400.
As racial and national restrictions were removed from the immigration regulations in the 1960s, South Asian immigration mushroomed. It also became much more culturally diverse; a large proportion of immigrants in the 1950s were the Sikh relatives of pioneer South Asian settlers, while the 1960s also saw sharp increases in immigration from other parts of India and from Pakistan. By the early 1960s, two-thirds of South Asian immigrant men were professionals — teachers, doctors, university professors and scientists. Canadian preferences for highly skilled immigrants during the 1960s broadened the ethnic range of South Asians and hence decreased the proportion of Sikhs. Non-discriminatory immigration regulations enacted in 1967 resulted in a further dramatic increase in South Asian immigration.
In 1972, all South Asians were expelled from Uganda. Canada accepted 7,000 of them (many of whom were Ismailis) as political refugees. Thereafter a steady flow of South Asians have come to Canada from Kenya, Tanzania and Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly known as Zaire), either directly or via Britain. The 1970s also marked the beginning of migration from Fiji, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago and Mauritius. During 1977–85 a weaker Canadian economy significantly reduced South Asian immigration to about 15,000 a year.
Religious and Cultural Life
South Asian communities vary widely in the emphasis they place on extra-familial cultural activities. As a rule, groups with high ethnic consciousness, e.g., Canada's 455,000 Sikhs (2011), maintain a full round of these activities, whereas groups such as Fijians and Guyanese, and South Asians of the professional classes, do not. A similar degree of variability exists in regard to religious institutions. Sikhs are numerous, their identity is both ethnic and religious, and their religious institutions have been in place since the first Canadian Sikh temple was founded in 1908. They have consequently been very successful in establishing and preserving their religion in Canada. (See also Sikhism.)
Ismaili Muslims are also both an ethnic and a religious group that has founded strong religious institutions. Canada's South Asian Sunni Muslims (chiefly from Pakistan and India) have generally allied themselves with other Sunnis in support of pan-ethnic mosques, and they too have effectively transmitted their religion to their children. In Hindu populations of sufficient size, people have established both community-specific and multi-community Hindu temples, which are used by a range of different ethnic groups for prayer, for the presentation of annual ceremonies and for important rituals linked to marriage and death. Sinhalese who practise Buddhism established their first temple in Toronto.
Most communities support a variety of other activities and institutions. Nominally religious organizations frequently support language classes for children and cultural activities such as South Asian music and dance. In addition, there are now over 250 South Asian socio-cultural associations in Canada. Folk and classical music and dance traditions are popular. In addition, South Asian Canadians now support newspapers and newsletters across Canada. South Asian programming on radio and cable television has expanded rapidly with dedicated programming and channels, especially in major centres.
Until 1965, South Asian politics were devoted primarily to lobbying for the elimination of the legal restrictions enacted by the BC Legislature and to changing immigration laws. Since then, South Asians have become increasingly involved on other political fronts. Their associations now actively lobby for government support for cultural programs, for greater access to immigration, and for government action to reduce prejudice and discrimination. South Asians have frequently held municipal level offices, but their federal participation was not extensive until the 1980s. Sixteen South Asians ran for federal office in 1993, and British Columbia had two South Asian provincial cabinet ministers in the same year. South Asians are sometimes involved in home country politics; for example, Canadian Sikh communities provided support for the post-1983 rights for Sikhs in Punjab.
Cultural Preservation
In 1994, approximately 80 per cent of South Asian Canadians were immigrants. Only the Sikhs have been in Canada long enough to have demonstrated a clear pattern of cultural preservation through the generations. Strong group consciousness and minority-group status resulted in high rates of cultural retention among British Columbia Sikhs. Virtually all of the second generation are knowledgeable about Sikh culture and language and marry other Sikhs.
Other groups, e.g., Ismailis, Pakistanis and other Sunni Muslims, have stressed religion above cultural and linguistic maintenance. For most South Asian groups, acculturation in the second generation appears extensive, partially due to South Asian patterns of marriage and family maintenance. Whether social integration will be equally thorough will depend chiefly on the future development of relations between South Asians and other Canadians.
Settlement Patterns
Until the late 1950s, virtually all South Asians lived in British Columbia, but when professional South Asian immigrants came to Canada in larger numbers, they began to settle across the country. British Columbia's South Asian population in 2011 was 313,440, mostly concentrated in the Vancouver area. Virtually all South Asian Canadians live in urban contexts in Ontario (965,990), British Columbia (313,440), Alberta (156,665) and Québec (83,320). In addition, some ethnic South Asian populations are quite localized, primarily as the result of chain migration. For example, Sikhs are heavily over-represented in Vancouver, as are those from Fiji; those from Guyana and Trinidad in Toronto; and Ismailis in Vancouver, Edmonton and Calgary.
Economic Life
Early Sikhs in British Columbia were almost exclusively involved in the lumber industry. They are still active in this industry, both as workers and mill owners. Skilled South Asian professionals of various ethnocultural backgrounds who arrived between 1960 and 1985 are now well established. The occupational distribution broadened in the 1970s with the arrival of an increasing proportion of South Asian blue- and white-collar workers. The exodus of Ugandan South Asians brought many business people to Canada, many of whom undertook entrepreneurial activities ranging from the ownership of taxis to the control of corporations. The participation of other South Asians in businesses has also been high. In South Asia, few middle class women worked outside the home until the 1990s, but Canadian South Asian women have steadily become active participants in the economy in a variety of blue- and white-collar jobs, and a large majority of South Asian women aged 20–45 now have paid work. South Asians have also been involved in farming, especially in British Columbia.
Social Life and Community
South Asian Canadians have such widely varying backgrounds that few generalities can be made about their social and community life. One critical cultural commonality is that they all come from places where extended families, kinship and community relations are extremely important. Generally, immigrants from South Asia quickly accept many Canadian cultural patterns, but they have tried to maintain a core of continuity in family and community practice. Parents generally attempt, often quite unsuccessfully, to instil in their children key South Asian family values. This goes hand in hand with massive acculturation among the population who are Canadian-born. Husband-wife relations are changing, especially as wives acquire access to economic and social resources. Future family changes are likely, particularly in regard to intermarriage, as the second generation matures.
As a rule, informal social links between individuals of similar backgrounds are strong. South Asians do not usually form strongly geographically concentrated urban communities, and relationships are supported chiefly by continual visiting. In contrast, links between the various South Asian communities are extremely weak and are chiefly restricted to contacts among leaders. As a consequence, it is inaccurate to speak of "the" South Asian community of a given place, for there are likely to be many. Contacts between communities most frequently arise when communities are small or where culture, language or religion are shared.