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We are looking for a video camera. we have a Sony handycam with nightshot plus and I am thinking about buying another camera so two of us can have cameras. I also plan on buying extra lights off of amazon. but we really like the spectercam,and the pro from ghosthuntingcameras.com and the paraspectrum from moditroncs. what do you guys think The camcorder we already have has the night shot so I would think IR is covered so I was thinking paraspectrum but it blocks out all the visible light bit. I just want the largest range of light to capture everything.
Video camera
Started by tierney77 , Oct 12 2011 02:27 PM
4 replies to this topic
Posted 12 October 2011 - 02:27 PM
Posted 12 October 2011 - 08:59 PM
Also I am looking for information an what else we should look into aquiring.
Posted 15 October 2011 - 05:46 AM
Actually you want the narrowest range of light. That way, should you capture something, you know what region it originated from. I often recommend even to those using only visible light, to filter the band into various colors thus isolating it into its component levels. When you throw in IR or UV such isolation is imparative because light outside the visible part of the spectrum exhibits different characteristics based on its wavelength. There is no one camera for all applications; anyone who makes such a claim is just trying to sell cameras!
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Posted 18 June 2012 - 11:19 PM
hey you all talk about the camera you use.. but seems to me you all are going for night adventures right? did you all ever thought about what lighting you are going to use? any flashlights you bring along?
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Posted 24 June 2012 - 07:52 PM
Spectercam stuff is the top of the line stuff, I would go with them hands down. I have a sony with night vision too, and they aren't that great in large areas or outside. Even with silly amounts of infrared light they only go 20 feet in the dark. Inside or near reflective walls it's pretty good. It really depends on what you are doing, but most people highly underestimate how much infrared you really need since it's so hard to push. Don't use uv for mobile use where people are, it puts out too much visible light, and the amount you need to make a dent in the darkness is enough to give you a sun burn.
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Prednisone tablets
Prednisone tablets
What is this medicine?
PREDNISONE (PRED ni sone) is a corticosteroid. It is commonly used to treat inflammation of the skin, joints, lungs, and other organs. Common conditions treated include asthma, allergies, and arthritis. It is also used for other conditions, such as blood disorders and diseases of the adrenal glands.
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine with food. If you are taking this medicine once a day, take it in the morning. Do not take more medicine than you are told to take. Do not suddenly stop taking your medicine because you may develop a severe reaction. Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take. If your doctor wants you to stop the medicine, the dose may be slowly lowered over time to avoid any side effects.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
changes in emotions or moods
changes in vision
depressed mood
eye pain
fever or chills, cough, sore throat, pain or difficulty passing urine
increased thirst
swelling of ankles, feet
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
confusion, excitement, restlessness
nausea, vomiting
skin problems, acne, thin and shiny skin
trouble sleeping
weight gain
What may interact with this medicine?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
amphotericin B
aspirin and aspirin-like medicines
certain medicines for diabetes, like glipizide or glyburide
cholinesterase inhibitors
female hormones, like estrogens and birth control pills
NSAIDS, medicines for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, talk to your doctor or health care professional. You may need to miss a dose or take an extra dose. Do not take double or extra doses without advice.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Cushing's syndrome
heart disease
high blood pressure
infection (especially a virus infection such as chickenpox, cold sores, or herpes)
kidney disease
liver disease
mental illness
myasthenia gravis
stomach or intestine problems
thyroid disease
an unusual or allergic reaction to lactose, prednisone, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. If you are taking this medicine over a prolonged period, carry an identification card with your name and address, the type and dose of your medicine, and your doctor's name and address.
This medicine may increase your risk of getting an infection. Tell your doctor or health care professional if you are around anyone with measles or chickenpox, or if you develop sores or blisters that do not heal properly.
If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor or health care professional that you have taken this medicine within the last twelve months.
Ask your doctor or health care professional about your diet. You may need to lower the amount of salt you eat.
This medicine may affect blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, check with your doctor or health care professional before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetic medicine.
July 17, 2018

subset: commoncrawl


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In January the Sundance Film festival "canonized" the work of late term abortionists in the United States, and gushed unbounded praise and admiration for their heroic "care of women." The centerpiece of this hagiographic exercise was the documentary film "After Tiller," by directors Lana Wilson and Martha Shane. The movie uncritically portrays the lethal practice of four late term abortionists: Warren Hern, who performs late-term abortions in Boulder, Colo., Shelley Sella and Susan Robinson who do their killing in Albuquerque, N.M., and the infamous "Butcher of Germantown" (Md.), LeRoy Carhart.
These "heroes" were all taught the deadly art of late term abortion by George Tiller. The partisan media has been heaping praise on the horrid reality of abortion, and then we got this: LeRoy Carhart, one of the four "heroes" depicted in the film, performed a third trimester abortion in Maryland, and in a Feb. 8 press conference the Maryland Coalition for Life reported that as a "direct result of complications experienced" from Carhart's abortion, a 29-year-old woman was pronounced dead in a Germantown hospital.
The press conference in Germantown, Md., reported that the procedure, which commenced Sunday, Feb.3, quickly developed into a medical emergency. The woman had to be revived several times by medical personnel on Thursday but "… due to immense blood loss and hemorrhagic shock…" the medics could not save her life. They reported also, that Carhart was nowhere to be found and could not be contacted by the woman's family as she lay dying in the hospital.
This is the work of the heroes of Sundance.
Michael Martelli of the Maryland Coalition for Life was quick to point out what the media and movie lovers of Sundance are never told. This is not the first woman who has died after one of Carhart's lethal procedures. "He already killed Christin Gilbert in Kansas in 2005, and now another senseless tragedy has come as a result of Carhart's so-called 'women's healthcare' and the apathy of the pro-abortion Maryland State Government," Martelli said.
The film set to be released this Fall, "After Tiller," makes one wonder: Who are these filmmakers who have dedicated themselves to glorifying late term abortion? The mere existence of "After Tiller" begs another question: Who are the people who could be so callous as to sit through 85 minutes of this propaganda? When – indeed if – we as a nation wake up from the deadly stupor created by the propaganda of the pro-abortion lobby, what will history and the next generations have to say about us? The institutionalized discrimination against the unborn is corrupting science, politics, and culture in our Nation and the world, in a manner chillingly reminiscent of more recent crimes against humanity.
I know LeRoy Carhart. I confronted him every Monday morning for over a year at his abortion mill in Germantown, Maryland. This terrible place is owned by brother and sister, Todd Stave and Nancy Samuels of Potomac, Md. For over a year, I tried in every way to negotiate and warn Mr. Stave and Ms. Samuels that bringing in a man like LeRoy Carhart would sooner or later result in the death of one of these women in crisis. I have seen them, in the latter stages of their pregnancies, crying, confused, in crisis, being coaxed into Carhart's death chamber.
Stave and his sister have a long tradition in the abortion industry. The clinic now staffed by Carhart was left to them by their father, who owned the abortion mill before them. One wonders if a dead woman will cause this lethal pair to cease and desist. It is high time Todd Stave and Nancy Samuels stop hurting the women of Maryland. The carnage they have brought to Maryland exceeds 1,000 babies dead and now a young mother.
Maybe now upstart film directors Wilson and Shane will come to Maryland to add a final chapter to "After Tiller." Carhart has been described to me by his own staff as the "most evil person" they have ever encountered.
Even Mr. Stave, who continues to be instrumental in the damage and death of women and babies in Maryland, has described how he loathes Carhart. But, I guess Carhart pays the rent.
Does "After Tiller" report that Carhart's own staff member had lodged a formal complaint against Carhart for his misrepresentations in his medical license application, or that he conducted risky abortion procedures without any hospital privileges? Does "After Tiller" report that Carhart has been involved in multiple botched late-term abortions, including the death of 19-year-old Christin Gilbert in his Kansas clinic?
I have stood outside of Carhart's mill and seen teenagers crying while practically being dragged into Carhart's abortion mill. I can only describe filmmakers Shane and Wilson's praise of Carhart and his practice as a work of fiction.
"They're helping women…they help them grieve for their loss…" said Shane.
Shane and Wilson should come and grieve with any of the 208 families of women who have died from abortion.
Maybe New York Governor Cuomo would like to join them, as analysis by the Catholic Center has shown that his so-called Reproductive Health Bill would permit unlimited late term abortion on demand. It would also "allow non-physicians to perform abortions," and "preclude reasonable regulations on abortion."
These abortionists are not doctors. Abortion is a corruption of the art of medicine. Carhart, the "Butcher of Germantown," as he is known in Maryland, has single-handedly killed over 25,000 babies for money.
And yet, says filmmaker Shane, "My respect for the doctors has increased tenfold…" Carhart, the hero of Sundance, had the gall to say, "At the end of the day, it's about healthcare. We are providing a service to women."
A funeral service is what had been provided in New York that week.
These are the heroes of "After Tiller," carrying on, damaging women and killing babies. Robinson, speaking of her mentor Tiller, stated, "We learned at his knee. Kindness, courtesy, justice, love and respect are the hallmarks of a good patient relationship." How coincidental that both now and when Christin Gilbert died after a Carhart's abortion, the hero of Sundance, was nowhere to be found.
"After Tiller" also declines to mention, as reported by Operation Rescue, that in 2009 several of Carhart's employees filed affidavits with the Nebraska State Attorney General's office with details on Carhart's practices. The attorney general and the Nebraska Department of Health launched investigations into testimony "…of Carhart's unlicensed workers illegally performing medical tasks, illegal post-viability abortions, drug violations, financial malfeasance, and that there was often "dried blood on medical instruments." The testimony also indicated that Carhart "had poor hygiene and rarely washed his hands between patients."
"After Tiller," depicting Carhart as a caring medical professional, is a great work of propaganda. During the agony of Christin Gilbert in Carhart's abortion Nebraska facility, the record shows that when the medics were finally called, Carhart's staff made sure to tell them, as recorded in the 911 call, "Please, please, please! No lights; no sirens." And what did the medics discover in our hero's facility? They found Christin Gilbert lying on the floor in a pool of blood, fluids, and coffee grounds, "in huge amounts."
But there is more on our hero Mr. Carhart.
The medics found him on top of Christin. It was reported that he was "…trying to pump fluids from her stomach. Paramedics reported that they first thought he was a male nurse who may not have known what he was doing. The paramedics ordered Carhart away from the girl but he did not comply… One report indicated that the paramedics may have had to pull Carhart off her." The report also said that Christin was bleeding from every orifice of her body. So much for the kind, courteous, and loving Mr. Carhart.
I also recall that, as families and children walked prayerfully back and forth at the Carhart clinic on Halloween Day of 2012, Carhart's staff came out of the clinic with trick or treat bags and distributed them to the children, some as young as six years old, and in some cases, before their parents realized what was happening.
The bags were filled not with candy and sweets but full of condoms and contraceptive devices.
But there is more. Shane and Wilson also forget to mention that Carhart, at one of his facilities in Kansas, maintained an incinerator inside of the abortion facility. There, indoors, he would burn the bodies of his young victims. After our promise that "Never Again" should such horrors be visited upon humanity, we have now tragically rediscovered in the 21st century, with Carhart and company, the smoke stacks of human flesh, billowing the remains of innocent human beings, in our so-called "civilized society."
This is the gut wrenching horror of the daily work of the hero of Sundance.
This is what Todd Stave (also a "star" in "After Tiller") and Nancy Samuels have brought to Maryland. Is this what Sundance's Shane and Wilson need to glorify in their film? LeRoy Carhart is the man to whom the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, on the same day of this tragic death of his 29-year-old patient, issued a license to the Germantown facility, "… to perform abortions – without a single inspection of the facility" (Martelli, Maryland Coalition for Life).
LeRoy Carhart has lost all sense of humanity and in 15 years as a priest, I have never encountered a more soulless human being. One need only to come to Germantown, Md., to see what horrors he perpetrates.
Today, the memory of Sophie Scholl, made memorable in the pamphlets of the "White Rose," which were secretly distributed, during World War II, should reverberate in our souls. Those of us, who still have some sense of humanity and solidarity for every member of the human species regardless of size, stage of development, race, color, religion, gender, or political affiliation hear her words today.
In the midst of a complete eclipse of reason in her beloved Germany, Sophie Scholl's resistance movement stated: "Who among us has any conception of the dimensions of shame that will befall us and our children when one day the veil has fallen from our eyes and the most horrible of crimes – crimes that infinitely outdistance every human measure – reach the light of day."
So much for the heroes of Sundance.
Editor's note: This is an updated version of a column that ran Feb. 18, 2013. In light of the recent investigative videos released by LiveAction, CNA is re-running this piece.
* Catholic News Agency columns are opinion and do not necessarily express the perspective of the agency.


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Where's My Water? 2
Get ready to join Swampy, Allie, and Cranky on their NEXT exciting adventure! The sequel to the most addicting physics-based puzzler from Disney has finally arrived. Where's My Water? 2 launches with three brand new locations including the Sewer, the Soap Factory, the Beach. Best of all, the puzzles are all free! Cut through dirt, and guide fresh…
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An experience you'll never forget
With NOVA, you can expect to experience the Alaska you imagined.
WHAT OUR CLIENTS are saying
"It was an experience we will never forget"
The four of us want to thank NOVA for its professional management of our Talkeetna trip. Your guides are a credit to your organization. I will continue to recommend NOVA. It is refreshing to see such professionalism and enthusiasm from these people who do the job every day.Bill Bankston, Alaska
I have lived in Alaska for over 20 years and have wanted to do a whitewater run for a long time. On July 10, 2004, I was on your Six Mile Creek trip; what fun and excitement!! It was an awesome experience! I have recommended your company to friends. Thank you!Cathy Mock, Alaska
Wow! I still can't believe I was climbing on vertical ice! Our group had and amazing time and your guide was just terrific. We were well taken care of and always felt safe. Thanks NOVA.Cindy Taylor, Georgia
Your guides were all friendly, capable, fun and did a wonderful job. I will definitely recommend this Alaska trip to anyone headed your way.Deanna Dailey - Texas
On behalf of the 90th Fighter Squadron, I would like to thank the entire NOVA staff for a fun evening on your Lion Head trip. A special thanks to the guides who provided a delicious dinner and a great run!Jane Haefner, Alaska
Our group of seven did the Six Mile Creek trip and we all had a great time, and we can't say enough about the people you had to work with us. Very professional and FUN; we had an experience we will remember forever! Thank You!Kevin Borer, Minnesota
I want to take this opportunity to tell you what a great time we had on your Talkeetna River trip. Your guides were superbly skilled in maneuvering through the canyon rapids which immediately allowed us to enjoy the excitement of the whitewater. Having participated in numerous commercial and private river trips, we were most impressed with your guide's skills and the quality of your equipment.Kevin Dickson, Flor
We can't say enough about your staff and guides. Your guides were friendly, responcible and very professional. I know that everyone on the trip was more than satisfied with every aspect of the trip. It was an experience we will never forget.Lynn Carpenter, Dallas, TX
The trip that you put together on the Chickaloon was a blast. Just wanted to let you know that your guides worked hard to make sure that the run was both memorable and carefree for us clients. I know that the other folks on the trip were equally satisfied with the level of service and attention to detail that NOVA provided. I plan to recommend your outfit to friends. Cheers!Lynn Carpenter, Illinois
Our NOVA Talkeetna trip was perfect!!! We have told and re-told our stories a hundred times this week and bragging to people returning from the beach that we had the best vacation of all. Please accept our thanks, and our congratulations for being the best of the best.Margie Elsberg, Maryland
Just a quick note to say thank you for a spectacular day with NOVA yesterday (06/23). The white water rafting with Travis & Jack was awesome, however the Ice Climbing with Emily was more than awesome. Emily was fantastic to both my daughter and I and made us feel really special about our activities and ice climbing achievements. Please find attached a photo of Emily and Morgan and the smiles on their faces certainly sums up our day. Again many thanks!Mark & Moran Bamford, Bendigo, AU
It's hard to believe that your people can put in 18 hour days and still be very pleasant and gracious to your guests. Their ability to interact with various personalities of guests on the trip made everyone relaxed. Food was super! We had an excellent experience with your company from trip registration through trip completion.Phyllis Bennett, Georgia
I took a trip down the Matanuska River with you when I lived in Anchorage in the early 80's. After moving back last year and taking a trip with you that summer, I've since made four more with NOVA this year. I find your trips to be an excellent way to initiate my visitors to the wonders and joys of Alaska. I want to reiterate my thanks and appreciation to everyone on your staff, from those in the office at Chickaloon to the professional and personable guides insuring a bitchin' time on the river. I can assure I will be going again.Sincerely, Dale Hoffman, Alaska
We would like to thank you again for the 2 day Matanuska rafting trip. You gave us a great time in Alaska. Keep us on your mailing list for a longer trip next year.Werner Copray, Germany
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This chapter describes the various components that you must configure in order to use an EIS transformation mapping.
This chapter includes the following sections:
For information on how to configure TopLink mappings options common to two or more mapping types, see Chapter 121, "Configuring a Mapping".
For information on how to create TopLink mappings, see Chapter 120, "Creating a Mapping".
Table 85-1 lists the configurable options for an EIS transformation mapping.
Table 85-1 lists the configurable options for an EIS transformation mapping.
Table 85-1 Configurable Options for EIS Transformation Mapping
|Option to Configure
|Oracle JDeveloper
|TopLink Workbench
Attribute transformer (see Section 121.15, "Configuring Attribute Transformer")
Field transformer associations (see Section 121.16, "Configuring Field Transformer Associations")
Method or direct field access at the mapping level (see Section 121.6, "Configuring Method or Direct Field Accessing at the Mapping Level")
Read-only mappings (see Section 121.2, "Configuring Read-Only Mappings")
Mutable mappings (see Section 121.17, "Configuring Mutable Mappings")
Mapping comments (see Section 121.8, "Configuring Mapping Comments")
For more information, see the following:


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2cm Silver Drop Earring with Pink Square Cubic Zirconia. Stunning earrings perfect for evening wear. Simply CZ the most popular diamond simulant in the world today. They do not loose their shape and are as beautiful vibrant and colouful as any diamond.
It was first discovered in Sri Lanka but the first one made for a purpose was industrial and the Russians used it in their laser technology. Through that industry someone saw the potential as a jewel in jewellery making. There are many colours that can be produced in Cubic Zirconia. Although it is sometimes looked upon as a cheap Diamond Simulant, in actuality it can be a valuable gem. These earrings are nickel free and hypoallergenic for sensitive ears.


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2014 Emmy Fashion Preview
Take a look at the fashions you will be seeing at the 2014 Emmy Awards on Sunday. Courtesy: AP Entertainment
This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.
I ... the record actually Annie's are very unique very different from all the other award shows a year in the sense that ... it is a high tech wreck and I don't mean hot as in beautiful people that matter I tend to serve on the sun is blaring down I knew ... it gets to be about ninety degrees out there and so ... a lot of these ... Atchity says half to take that into consideration and are picking up and downs in its was interesting to see ... some of that though ... the old timers that when you've done Mr Kirby one year after year after year ... intuitively Dreyfus is that to him are always ... on e Falco in a comment ... unsure as to not sweat Ilbo have a strapless under here is subsidizing its breezy ... and very cultural drop the day but then to see the honors in news that the new or women who are kind of climbing up this Hollywood ladder ... this up with these dresses that are in a long sleeve in there like why is it so hot out here and there sweating and regulators of school so as far as actually we see a lot of ... bright colors bold colors and the greed and these are really good time to wear ... all black to be to sit here because it's so sunny and beautiful and ... and has the lion's very happy and chipper in Hollywood on The Newry cockpit Isaiah one ... that's a nice top actors that we are all looking for just sitting on the record that is Kerry ... Washington Kerry Washington has really emerged ... as a rule the action please ... see as increased fashion and she ... is wearing looks not just kind of you know from a fabulous apartment store are ... a great boutique know these are straight off the runway Oscar de la Renta ketamine Herrera mean she is wearing ... some unbelievable exquisite downs in and beautiful ensembles ...


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V12kid needed a new logo design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 87 designs submitted by 25 freelance designers.
I need a logo for my web development company. Must be theme-centric and modern
V12 Networks
Desired Color Scheme:
web 2.0ish, blues etc
Desired Style:
modern, trendy, easy to read, printable
Accepted File Formats:
psd, jpeg
I am looking for a logo for my newly formed web development company V12 Networks. I am looking for a logo that is modernt and trendy. I dont have a color preference but am partial to "web 2.0" colors especially blues.
The term V12 relates to a car engine so if anyone has an idea towards that style you might try it. Id like the logo to project modern, trendy and young. I am open to all ideas and look forward to your submission.
Logo must also be printable as I will use this on buisness cards and tshirts eventually
once the logo is complete I will start a contest for a matching layout :)
plz pm for any more info
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.


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Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment (CEFR)
A transparent, coherent and comprehensive reference instrument
The result of over twenty years of research, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, teaching, assessment (CEFR) is exactly what its title says it is: a framework of reference. It was designed to provide a transparent, coherent and comprehensive basis for the elaboration of language syllabuses and curriculum guidelines, the design of teaching and learning materials, and the assessment of foreign language proficiency. It is used in Europe but also in other continents.
The CEFR is available in 40 languages
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, teaching, assessment (CEFR) is related to the work of the Education Department which is part of the Directorate of Democratic Participation within the Directorate General of Democracy ("DGII") of the Council of Europe.
Conference: Building Inclusive Societies through Enriching Plurilingual and Pluricultural Education
CEFR Companion Volume with New Descriptors (2018) including Sign Languages
It is intended as a complement to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, teaching, assessment (CEFR). It represents another important step in a process that has been pursued by the Council of Europe since 1971 and owes much to the contributions of members of the language teaching profession across Europe and beyond. The "Companion Volume" is the Council of Europe's response to requests that have been made by the groups involved in the field of language education to complement the original illustrative scales with more descriptors.
Six levels of foreign language proficiency
The CEFR describes foreign language proficiency at six levels: A1 and A2, B1 and B2, C1 and C2. It also defines three 'plus' levels (A2+, B1+, B2+)
Based on empirical research and widespread consultation, this scheme makes it possible:
- to establish learning and teaching objectives
- to review curricula
- to design teaching materials and
- to provide a basis for recognising language qualifications thus facilitating educational and occupational mobility.
A European Indicator of Language Competence
Following a call for action by the Barcelona European Council (March 2002), the European Commission has developed a survey based on the CEFR (see Executive Summary 2012) to measure the foreign / second language proficiency of pupils at the end of compulsory education.
The purpose of the survey was to establish a European Indicator of Language Competence, providing member states with internationally comparable data on the results of foreign language teaching and learning in the European Union
Using the CEFR in specific contexts
The CEFR does not offer ready-made solutions but must always be adapted to the requirements of particular contexts, for example, the teaching and learning of Romani.
There is a particular need for careful interpretation and adaptation is especially acute when the CEFR's descriptive scheme and proficiency levels are used for example to explore the communicative needs of adult migrants (www.coe.int/lang-migrants) and to guide the assessment of their proficiency in the language of their host community (see relevant studies).
The CEFR is much more than proficiency scales
The CEFR's scales of foreign language proficiency are accompanied by a detailed analysis of communicative contexts, themes, tasks and purposes as well as scaled descriptions of the competences on which we draw when we communicate.
The CEFR is used in teacher education, the reform of foreign language curricula, the development of teaching materials and for the comparability of qualifications.
The CEFR online :
Full text of the CEFR (2001)
CEFR - Companion Volume (2018)
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages is published in English by Cambridge University Press - ISBN Hardback 0521803136 Paperback: 0521005310
The French version is published by Editions Didier: Cadre européen commun de référence pour les langues: apprendre, enseigner, évaluer. ISBN: 9782278058136
The copyright belongs to the Council of Europe. Requests concerning the translation or the reproduction of all or part of the CEFR should be addressed to the Council of Europe.
Important Note
The use of the Council of Europe's logo or of the European emblem for certification is not authorised. It is not the role of the Council of Europe to verify and validate the quality of the link between language examinations or diplomas and the CEFR's proficiency levels.
Member states are responsible for guaranteeing the quality and fairness of testing and assessment on the basis of the existing guidelines (including tools and illustrations) developed in the frame of the Council of Europe's Language Policy Programme (Strasbourg).


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What is Provider Based Billing (PBB)?
PBB refers to the billing process for services rendered in a hospital department or location. This is the national model of practice for large, integrated delivery systems where the hospital owns space and employs support personnel involved in patient care.
Will there be a change in how patients receive care?
No. Patients will continue to receive excellent quality care with their physician and scheduling appointments and tests will be handled as they always have been in the past. However, there is a change in how the hospital will bill your insurance carrier for these services.
Does this mean patients will pay more for services?
Depending on their particular insurance coverage, it is possible benefits may differ for certain outpatient services and procedures at provider-based/hospital outpatient locations. We recommend patients review their insurance benefits or contact their insurance provider to determine what their policy will pay and what out-of-pocket expenses they may incur based on the location of the services provided.
Does this affect patient co-pays or deductibles?
Depending on each patient's specific insurance benefits, deductible, co-insurance and copayments may be applied for provider-based services.
What can patients do if they are having difficulty paying for healthcare services?
Little Company of Mary offers charity policies to help qualifying patients. Detailed information is available by calling our Financial Counseling Office at 708-229-6152 or 708-229-6153.


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Looks like all systems go for Central subway
Four months ago, in the midst of the mayoral race, the Central Subway came under perhaps the strongest attack it has faced in decades of planning. Too expensive, not needed, a boondoggle, critics cried. Some supporters withdrew their backing; others became ambivalent.
But now, having survived the election, things could hardly be going better for the $1.6 billion, 1.7-mile subway that will connect the Caltrain station to Chinatown.
"We're rolling forward," said Ed Reiskin, the Municipal Transportation Agency's director of transportation.
Not only did the din of criticism fade with the election of Mayor Ed Lee, a major supporter, but the Municipal Transportation Agency last week was recommended for $150 million in federal funds for new rail projects. In recent months, the project received federal approval to buy two tunnel-boring machines and to build the starting point for the tunneling effort scheduled to begin in January. This spring - probably in May or June, according to Federal Transit Administrator Peter Rogoff - the project is likely to be awarded a $942 million full funding grant agreement, essentially a funding guarantee.
Plowing forward
And work on the project is plowing forward. Underground utilities have been moved to make way for the tunnel-digging South of Market, and similar work is under way in Union Square and expected to be completed in June. Design of the Chinatown station has been completed, and that contract will go out to bid in a couple of weeks. Contracts for the Union Square and Moscone stations will seek bidders in the next four months, followed by a contract to install the systems that will run the subway.
"All of the remaining contracts for the Central Subway will be awarded this year," said John Funghi, project manager.
The 'launch box'
The Union Square utility relocation has closed streets, rerouted traffic and created a modicum of chaos. But the bulk of the work is yet to come. Most will take place below ground, but the hub of the action will be beneath the Interstate 80 skyway near Fourth Street, where the agency is preparing to build the "launch box," a large hole the tunnel-boring machines will be placed in to start excavating the twin tubes of the subway. The site marks the end of the street-level stretch of the line, and where it will begin its descent. It's where the excavated soil will be hauled out, and the prefabricated concrete subway sections will be constructed and slipped inside.
Chew into earth
Tunneling machines, about the length of a football field, will chew into the earth starting at the skyway and work their way down to three subterranean stations near Moscone Convention Center and Union Square and in Chinatown. But no streets will be closed while the machines dig underground.
"There's no vibration, no surface disruption," Funghi said. "You could be walking on top of it and not even feel it."
Despite the subway's progress, and defeat of opponents in November, critics still hope that federal officials or Congress will halt the project, said Gerald Cauthen, a former Muni engineer who opposes the project.
"If the Central Subway goes forward," he said, "it will become a permanent embarrassment to those who sponsored and supported it."
Michael Cabanatuan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. email@example.com


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This campfire circle, with its fire pit at the enter, is used for many different group purposes. The view of the night sky is wonderful.
Utah is a state located in the westcentral region of the United States of America. Utah is the 13th largest state by area, ranks 34th by population and 10th by population density of the 50 United States. Utah was the 45th state to be admitted into the Union, on January 4, 1896. Utah is landlocked, being bordered by the states of Idaho to the north, Wyoming to the northeast, Nevada on the west, Colorado on the east and Arizona to the south. Utah is very mountainous and is a popular outing destination of the outdoorsman. The state population is about 2.82M with 95% being Caucasian, 2.4% Asian, 1.7% Native American and 1.3% Black. The state capital and largest city is Salt Lake City.Source: wikipedia


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Dear Adobe: Make Software for Linux Too
Feb 18, 2014 5:27 PM PT
What if commercial software developers for popular Windows products sold Linux versions to a waiting market of open source users? Think in terms of paying a subscription fee to use a Linux version of Adobe's Photoshop image manipulation software, for starters.
Is porting commercial products like Photoshop as a licensed -- that is, paid -- product for Linux a viable idea? That is precisely what one Linux server administrator wants Adobe to find out.
The idea to create a groundswell of support for paid access to Linux versions of some Windows workhorse programs began several weeks ago as an Internet petition on Change.org.
"I think Adobe would think about it if we can show them that there are thousands of people around the world who don't like Windows anymore and can't buy a Mac. For me, the only reason [for] installing Windows is Photoshop," Gao Nagy, a Linux server administrator living in Budapest, Hungary, told LinuxInsider.
If Adobe executives have been considering such a business move, they haven't been champing at the bit to let the world know. Company officials for more than two weeks ignored LinuxInsider's requests to discuss the merits of offering commercial versions of their software for the Linux desktop.
Mum's the Word
Adobe finally provided a written reply to our queries -- but only to decline to discuss the issue.
"Adobe doesn't have any specific plans to share at this time, but is constantly evaluating new hardware and software capabilities, and designing and building features to take advantage of the latest technology," wrote spokesperson Deane Allie.
Grassroots Effort
The desire to unite Linux users worldwide on a software support campaign led Nagy to start his Internet petition drive. He hoped word would spread like wildfire via social networking.
So far, it has not. More than a month into the campaign, he has persuaded just 124 signers. However, Nagy hopes that some media attention will kick-start his petition efforts and result in an outpouring of support.
"It's really hard to reach people," he noted.
Despite the so-far disappointing response, Nagy thinks his idea will grow as more Linux users learn of his proposal to Adobe.
"I think half of the people whom I can reach via Facebook or Google+ are supporting this petition. But people don't really like to share anything on these sites," he said.
Needy Idea or Redundant Software?
Besides his Linux server duties for a large company, Nagy always needs to design things for his work. He also takes on other design jobs and is active in several creative circles. He uses Gentoo Linux at home and networks with associates who would like to try Ubuntu or Cent OS because they are easy to use.
He creates home pages for websites, programming in PHP, JS, Java and C++. He relies daily on designing and video tools. He even bought Photoshop despite the fact that it does not run on Linux, which means he has to shift to the Windows OS to use it.
Some may criticize him for not remaining with GIMP and other open source creative software, Nagy said. However, these programs do not always provide the performance levels of Adobe's professional creativity products.
"Yes, GIMP is a great tool, but I think GIMP is just a little boy who is playing in a sandbox and trying to build a castle. He needs some years to be a king with a real castle," Nagy quipped.
Petition Basics
Nagy's Internet petition calls on Adobe to make its products for the Linux OS. He challenges Adobe to be the next big thing in the open source marketplace.
The petition:
The first success for Linux was a webserver called Apache, the second was Oracle with their database engine. Now it's time for the next huge step. There are many people who would use Adobe products and many companies could save money with using Linux so it would be a great success for the Linux world to use Adobe Photoshop, Premiere Pro, etc.. on Linux. Save money and use professional softwares in one step.
Nagy posts updates on the number of online signers and asks supporters to "just keep going." He urges visitors to the petition page to share their support of the petition every week on their Facebook, Google+ and Twitter pages.
Not a Free Option
Nagy does not want Adobe to join the open source ranks to provide Linux users with more free software. He is not asking Adobe -- or any other software developer who would port to Linux -- to open their code or source it to the Linux communities.
Nagy does not even want Adobe to distribute its software for free. Instead, he wants Adobe to port Linux versions of its titles and let Linux users pay monthly subscription fees. Of course, buying it outright might be another option.
This marketing approach is already in play by other software developers bringing commercialized packages to Linux. Nagy simply wants Adobe to join that market of paid Linux software providers.
"Now there is Steam for Linux," he pointed out. "It's not open. The games are not open, and they cost some dollars," he observed.
If more commercial software developers pay attention to the Linux market, all Linux communities would benefit, according to Nagy.
"If a big company like Adobe one day says, 'Now I'm supporting Linux,' maybe Autodesk will say the same and some other big companies too," he suggested.
Marketers' Choice
The petition asks Adobe to take the opportunity, but the challenge needs critical mass. Different standards, platforms and options are good because they promote competition, according to Tuong Huy Nguyen, principal research analyst for Gartner.
"It gives consumers choice and leads to the best rising to the top," Nguyen told LinuxInsider.
Still, the issue boils down to this: When publishers and developers -- or even manufacturers -- are faced with multiple options, they often have to choose one, or at least prioritize, he added.
"The opportunity with Linux would be considerably smaller than with Windows, OS X, etc. So would the time and labor of porting the application make sense for all developers? If so, which of their applications should they port?" Nguyen wondered.
"You see this in the gaming world," he continued. "A game may come out on console and not PC, or vice versa -- or maybe console and PC but not Mac. And this is gaming -- a sizable market in relation to the software market as a whole," he noted.
Size Matters
The bottom line for Nguyen is the potential size of the Linux market. When you think of Linux, you are thinking of a smaller addressable market than Windows or Mac.
"As such, you need to be more careful with how you approach the market to ensure you get a return on your investment. This is something the publishers all consider when they launch their applications," Nguyen said.
Besides market share, there's the power of the purists. Those two factors might well never be overcome by a petition of any size.
"With the desktop market the way it is today, I don't think pure proprietary players like Adobe will be able to find a significant audience for Linux. Those who have adopted Linux for desktops can be described as techie purists. They are purposely shunning commercial software for philosophical reasons and will continue to be drawn to open source solutions for their needs," Mac McConnell, vice president of Bonitasoft, told LinuxInsider.
Those of us promoting open software love these guys, McConnell said, but until there is a financial incentive, it's not clear why traditional commercial software companies would be willing to build for Linux desktop.


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Truth-O-Meter takes a bite out of politics. And pit bulls.
Thank goodness the Truth-O-Meter's a polymath. PolitiFact Georgia relied on its encyclopedic knowledge to tackle subjects as utterly unrelated as pit bull aggression and health care reform.
Rulings varied. La Raza, a Hispanic issues advocacy group, earned a True for its claim on the percent of Latino children on Medicaid. U.S. Rep. Phil Gingrey earned a False for his claims that a federal health care board can kill you. A DeKalb County commissioner earned a Mostly True on those controversial canines. Former Atlanta Public Schools Superintendent Beverly Hall earned a False.
Curious? Here are shortened versions of our extensive fact-checks.
To comment on our findings, hit the "like" button on our Facebook page. You can also follow us on Twitter.


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What did visitors do after visiting the Indigenous Australians exhibition?
Six months after visiting the Indigenous Australians exhibition, a range of visitors were asked what they remember doing afterwards. Here's what some of them said.
You know what I did. I went home and bought one of those shirts, an extra large men's flag shirt, and I went home and I made a dress out of it. I made a dress. So I have this mini Aboriginal dress, and it looks pretty nice, and I wear this dress on Bondi Beach where anything goes and I can not tell you the energy of the people and the way people respond. Unbelievable. Bondi Beach, you know, anything goes there. I thought I was going to get beaten up! Twice I wore this dress. It was incredible. That was my own little experiment.
I've been interested [in Indigenous issues] for probably about six years. [When] I went to school it was Captain Cook who discovered Australia. I read the Fatal Shore and then I remember [my daughter] did a school project and I rang up Aboriginal Affairs and they sent me out this information which I read and then became appalled and shocked. Horrified, mortified. And then I saw the exhibition and had the same response to the photographs, the people in chains. I must say I was aware of that but it really coalesced those images in the Fatal Shore - just to see those photographs. I really couldn't walk past, I read the information, but those photographs, those people in chains. And I remember trying to get the family to go through it to show them these things.
I thought differently. I've met Aboriginal people ... the ones I have met ... didn't click with the way that, as a child, when you grew up and everything you heard [was negative] and then you see an exhibition like this, well then you see a lot more of the story...
I think it gives you an added confidence. You can sort of stick up for them.


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Live updates
Thousands of PCS union workers to strike over planned cuts
Thousands of PCS union members across the country - including some in the Calendar region - are to take part in a strike over cuts and closures which they claim threaten vital services to the public.
The Department of Transport have been carrying out industrial action over the past two months. The unions 8,500 transport members will be joined today by 3,500 from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in the walkout.
Those taking part in the action are doing so because:
- They are against planned closures to coastguard stations across the country
- Are angry at plans to close almost 40 DVLA local offices
- Have concerns over 'job cuts and privatisation' at Defra
- ITV Report


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EMI's CEO Admits Company 'Lost Touch' But Doesn't Seem To Know How To Fix It
from the perhaps-by-not-suing-everyone deptWell, this is rather incredible. EMI was one of the major labels that, for a brief period of time, seemed like it might actually have figured stuff out. You see, it got taken over by some folks from outside the recording industry, and they talked about how they needed to pay attention to experiments like Radiohead's and learn how to better respond to customer desires like that. That was two years ago. The company was also the first of the major labels to dump DRM. It then pulled back on its support for the RIAA and IFPI (after threatening to withdraw completely), saying that the strategy of suing fans was a dead end. On top of all that, it hired some Silicon Valley techies. For a while, we actually thought EMI might be the most interesting of the major record labels to follow.
But... old habits die really hard, apparently. The company has been suing pretty much every innovative startup that comes along, often targeting execs personally in attempts to bankrupt them. Sometimes it's been going after hobbyists or investors beyond just the actual companies. Often times, the company seems to be negotiating with innovators on the one hand, while filing unexpected lawsuits at the same time. One of the key techies it hired, Doug Merrill from Google, left after less than a year. More recently, the company refused to agree to more reasonable (but still high) streaming rates to get music back on YouTube in the UK.
Basically, it appears that EMI said it wanted to do something new, but couldn't resist doing everything it could to snuff out innovation. It takes more than words to actually convince both consumers and musicians that you're really adapting. Is it any wonder that people aren't fans? EMI's CEO is now admitting that the company "lost touch" with consumers:
"Music is in demand and the demand is growing all the time, but we've clearly lost touch with our consumers. I passionately believe that if we listen to our consumers, this gap will become our opportunity."Ok, so start listening! STOP SUING INNOVATORS. Stop suing executives and investors in those innovators. Stop using lawsuits as a negotiation tactic. Start focusing on giving fans what they want. Start focusing on enabling new business models that work for artists. Stop thinking about getting a transaction on every piece of music played, but start looking at ways to use the music to create additional products people want to buy. Stop trying to limit users and limit musicians. Enable them both. Also, over a year ago, Topspin's Ian Rogers wrote a brilliant open letter to EMI execs suggesting a rather smart way it could leverage its existing artist relationships. It doesn't seem like EMI listened at all.
If EMI wants help in listening, why not contact some of us who have been presenting solutions and showing what works? We're not that hard to reach, and I'm sure plenty of folks in our community would be more than willing to provide some incredibly useful suggestions.
Filed Under: customers, elio leoni-sceti, lost touch, record labels
Companies: emi


text: A traditional song this and a very strange one. Jesus being naughty and receiving a good thrashing from his mother is not started teaching and it makes you wonder how people got away with singing it years ago. It's a lovely piece of folk-lore through and always makes me think of the twisted and rotten willow trees around the ponds when I was a kid.


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AERIN Shell and Raffia Pillow Cover, Medallion
Easy, hassle-free returns online and in-store for eligible items.Learn More
Earn 5% Back in rewards4 plus free standard shipping3every day when you shop with your Williams Sonoma credit card at Williams Sonoma.Apply Now Learn More
- Summary
This hand-sewn pillow cover brings natural beauty into the home with soft tonal hues and a mix of organic textures. Designed in collaboration with lifestyle expert Aerin Lauder, it's woven of soft, undyed raffia and embellished by hand with wood beads and hand-braided raffia.
- 22" sq.
- Woven from 100% raffia.
- Hand embellished with wood beans and braided raffia.
- Knife-edge finish.
- Reverses to solid.
- Hidden zipper.
- Insert sold separately.
- Dimensions & More Info
- 22" sq.
- Made in Philippines
- Use & Care
- Wipe clean with a soft cloth. Blot to remove excess water.
- Air dry.
- Shipping
Shipping Information
This item is shipped from our warehouse by UPS to arrive within five business days of our receiving your order.
Shipping Rates
The shipping rate varies depending on your order total and shipping destination. View Shipping Options and Charges.
Return Policy
Our products are designed with your comfort and style in mind.
Should your item arrive damaged or with a defect, please contact us at 888.922.4108 within 7 days so that we may arrange for a replacement. Frames and springs are warranted to be free of manufacturing defects for the product's life, subject to the following conditions: warranty applies only to original owner and normal residential use. Defects resulting from negligence, abuse or use in a commercial, hospitality or other non-residential setting are not covered. For warranty service, call 888.922.4108.
Items Not Eligible for Return
• Monogrammed/Personalized items
• Made to Order items, including custom rugs and furniture
• Mattresses
• Gift cards
• Final sale items (with prices ending in $.X7 or $.X9)
• Items damaged through normal wear and tear
All other items may be returned within 30 days of receipt for a refund of merchandise only. View Full Returns Policy.


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Katie Couric Gossip
Katie Couric gossip, latest news, photos, and video.
Smutty Social Media, January 26, 2016
George Pimentel/ Neilson Barnard/ Jason Merritt/ Getty Images
I'm sorry, I love the texts between Amy Schumer and Colin Quinn, I can't help it. "Trust me it'll go viral." No Full Story
Gwyneth talks about her "failure"
Craig Barritt /Getty Images
But first… There was some talk a couple of days ago that Gwyneth Paltrow was being courted by The View, did you hear about that? The story came from Radar. Supposedly The View has offered G a million dollars to join the panel and are fretting that if she doesn't accept, the show will be cancelled. Full Story
Is Katie Couric Transphobic?
Earlier this week, TV's two most famous transgender female entertainers, Laverne Cox from Orange is the New Black and Carmen Carrera from Rupaul's Drag Race, were on Katie Couric's show. They had, or at least I thought they had, a productive conversation about their projects and their experiences as trans women. Full Story
Hate, silliness, and delight
Robin Williams bumped into Cindy Adams today in New York and the paps took this photo and for some reason I couldn't stop laughing. Next Stacy P forwarded me a link to Gawker's brilliant post on Katie Couric's dance photos and I lost it even harder. Click here Full Story


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Jean Lawson, a Genealogist on the Quebec Eastern Township Rootsweb forum brought us the following very helpful list of the 'official enumeration dates' for each Canadian census. It is possible these dates were ignored in some cases or ages incorrectly calculated but for the most part these would be the dates that were used to calculate ages on the Canadian Census Reports.
'The dates traditionally given below for each census is the "official
enumeration date". The actual enumeration could have taken weeks or months
to complete. However, enumerators were instructed to record the information
on the census returns as it existed on the official enumeration date.
1825 Census
The 1825 Census of Lower Canada (Quebec) was taken from June 20 to September 20, 1825.
1831 Census
The 1831 Census of Lower Canada (Quebec) was taken from June 1 to October 1,1831.
1851 Census
The 1851 Census was taken January 12, 1852. The age given on the census is
the age for the NEXT BIRTHDAY (1852), not the age of the person in 1851.
There are columns for deaths during 1851, cause of death, male or female. An Agricultural Census is available for some sections.
1861 Census
The 1861Census was taken January 14, 1861. The age given is the age on their next birthday. Check the whole county in the Agricultural Census, as some of the pages are out of order.
1871 Census
The 1871 Census was taken April 2, 1871. The age given is the age on their
next birthday. Check at the end of each section for deaths during the year.
There are 8 schedules following the main page in each enumeration district.
1881 Census
The 1881 Census was taken April 4, 1881. The age given is the age on their
last birthday. There is no agricultural census.
1891 Census
The 1891 Census was taken April 6, 1891. The age given is the age on their
last birthday. There is no agricultural census.
1901 Census
The 1901 Census was taken March 31, 1901. The age given is the age on their
last birthday. This is the only census that contains actual dates of birth,
which may or may not be correct. It contains the year of immigration. The
relationship to the head of household is also listed.'
Using Ancestry: The 1851 Canadian Census
1851 Census of Canada East, Canada West, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia
Wellington County, Ontario Canada 1851 Census
Addington County, Ontario Canada 1851 Census


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Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban visited Reddit on Christmas Eve to answer questions about pretty much anything. Why, you ask? He can do whatever he wants. Don't question Cubes.
All questions/answers are fully [sic]'d:
On how stars are viewed in the NBA:
Reddit: Hey, Mr. Cuban.
Why do basketball players only get recognition after they've been a part of a championship team? For instance, Dirk has been an amazing player for 10 years now, but only got the respect he truly deserved from fans after having a championship caliber supporting cast (Including coaches) around him. If it's a team game, why do players only get appreciated after they accomplish something that's mostly out of their control (Since, most of the time, they don't decide who they get to play with)?
Cuban: Thats the stupid , macho element of all professional sports. Its a lot easier to just pin a lable on someone than to actually do the work to determine the impact of a player. ITs the same reason everyone over values scoring in the NBA. Scoring is usually the easiest part of the game.
On Shark Tank, the entrepreneurial television show he's part of:
Reddit: On Shark Tank, how many of the deals get modified or cancelled after the cameras stop rolling? Also, have you ever decided to make a deal with someone after the cameras stop?
Cuban: we get the chance to do due diligence after the show. As a result you uncover things that were not brought up in the show , so its not unusual for a deal to fall through in the DD phase. I have had things like people who never paid their taxes, people who lied on the show, people who didnt think that if they spent money on their personal credit cards it should be considered an expense., you name it.
There is so much pressure on the entrepeneur during the show that sometimes they say what they think we want to hear rather than the truth. The DD helps us seperate the two
On Toronto and the Raptors:
Reddit: Hi mark,
There seems to be this stigma in the NBA, that no one really wants to play for the Toronto Raptors especially superstars. I myself have lived there in the past and its a wonderful city and i can't see why anyone wouldn't want to live there. Canada is a great place to live but it seems to really scare players away, it could be the high taxes or the cold weather, but other teams have that too.
Why do you think Toronto is avoided by major NBA stars?
Cuban: i dont get that either. I think TO is an amazing city
On technical fouls:
Reddit: Do you think the increased number of technical fouls called is necessary, or are the refs being a little too sensitive?
Cuban: I think a tech is more a reflection on the officiating than it is on the player with the exception being the guys who just love to yell. ie, the old school Rasheed Wallace.
There are so many fewer techs in college and the coaches in particular there get a lot more beligerant than what you see in the NBA
On Dirk Nowitzki and O.J. Mayo:
Reddit: Thanks for doing this! What do you think gives the Mavs an advantage in a stacked Western Conference this year, whether it be how the coaching staff game plans or certain personnel advantages? Do you think there will be any difficulty in having Dirk and Mayo on the floor at the same time in a sort of Stoudemire/Melo situation? What advice would you give to a young entrepreneur?
Cuban: I think dirk will help OJ's game a bunch. Up till now teams have really overloaded their Ds to stop OJ. With Dirk back it should open things up for OJ and the rest of our offense.
If we can stop turning the ball over we will ok. If not, not. The turnovers are driving me crazier than this damn kidney stone surgery Ive had to deal with. I think the turnovers are more painful
On the possibility of buying the Chicago Cubs:
Reddit: Hey Mark, how close did you come to buying the Cubs?
Cuban: not close at all. When I couldnt get the owner of the Cubs to sit in a room with me that pretty much told me it wasnt going to happen. I never made a final formal bid
On Deron Williams:
Reddit: Thoughts on Deron Williams?
Cuban: none
On Skip Bayless:
Reddit: How's your relationship with Skip Bayless?
Cuban: who ?
On buying Christmas presents as a rich person:
Reddit: I hate to be so straight forward, but what does a billionaire buy his kids for Christmas?
Cuban: the same junk that everyone else buys.
On what Cubes would change about the NBA:
Reddit: If you could change one thing about the NBA, what would it be?
Also, thank you for voting against the Sonic's move to OKC.
Cuban: the officiating. Ive spent 13 years trying to make it better and I havent really accomplished anything.
Reddit: In regards to the officiating, which rules need to be watched (corrected) the most?
Cuban: I think we have to re evaluate the mechanics of officiating . We miss far too many 3 secs and travelling calls. I think we need to devise a way where officials can help each other more. Right now its very limited when and how officials can help change a call
On making it rain:
Reddit: Have you ever "made it rain"?
Cuban: no. thats dumb shit that people with real money dont do .


text:
A man charged with shooting to death one person, and wounding another, is expected to face a bond judge Wednesday.
Arcadio Davila, 24, is accused of killing Ricky Pike and one of Pike's friends near their apartment in the city's Logan Square, back in August.
Pike was aspiring to become chef.
Court records show Davila has been arrested about 20 times since 2005.


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About Us
The Brockway Library Story
Brockway Memorial Library first opened its doors in February 1949. The library owes its existence to the generosity of George A. Brockway, after whom it was named. Mr. Brockway, an industrialist who wintered in Miami Beach, contributed the funds to build the library. The land on which the library stands was donated by Bessemer Properties, which was under the direction of Roy H. Hawkins, General Manager.
The Miami Shores Story
On January 2, 2012, Miami Shores Village attained its 80th anniversary. The thriving community of today was incorporated on January 2, 1932. However, its history precedes incorporation. Miami Shores Village, on the shores of Biscayne Bay, was first settled in the early 1870s. The Sturtevants, the Barnotts, the Potters, the Sears, the Woods and the Hunts, were the names of some of the earliest homesteaders in the area.


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Our guest blogger, Ms. Stella O'Brien, is our resident tween fashion expert. She's been wearing BabyLegs for years, styling them with everything from skirts to leggings to tee shirts. Today, she pulled on a pair of the ZIGGY style, from our Back-to-School collection to keep her arms warm while helping around the office. You can find Ziggy and all of her other picks on BabyLegs.com.
This gorgeous outfit makes a perfect first day impression… all of her classmates will be wowed by her glamorous ensemble.
This is a great back-to-school look for boys to start the year on a classic and bright note!
All babies have accidents…food spills, diaper leaks, and more. This multi-pack of one-piece bodysuits gives moms several changes for one whole day of clean clothes, plus, these suits allow for easy-on and easy-off. You can keep the RECESS leg warmers on while changing baby, so he stays warm, but looks cool!


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Alex LaPolice commits to play Harvard football
Rising New Canaan senior Alex LaPolice, a star player on the Rams football and baseball teams, has verbally committed to play football at Harvard, per The Ruden Report.
LaPolice had previously committed to Boston College for baseball, but his desire to play football at the next level reportedly swayed his decision. Last fall, LaPolice served as a major cog in New Canaan football's state championship run as a wide receiver, cornerback and return man.
Offensively, he recorded 35 receptions for 619 yards and 10 touchdowns. LaPolice also scored two touchdowns in the Rams' title win over arch rival Darien.
"The thing about him is, how many people get an ACC baseball offer and are also smart enough to be able to take an Ivy League football offer?" Rams football coach Lou Marinelli said.
"The thing people don't see is how hard he worked in the weight room to develop into the athlete he is. He's one of our captains and a model for what we try to get all our kids to be."
Two springs ago, the then sophomore took part in a state title baseball run, when New Canaan topped Waterford 3-0 in the Class L championship game.
Last May, he crushed a walk-off grand slam in a late regular season game against Trumbull to hand New Canaan an FCIAC tournament berth.


text:
French go after Google for brand grab
We say Non!
A flurry of French advertisers have written an open letter objecting to Google's practice of putting brand names up for auction.
The statement, sent to newswires, said: "Google has crossed a line by taking the initiative this summer to launch a service that allows anyone to buy brand names as keywords to generate advertising links."
Google changed the T&Cs on its AdWords service in August to allow firms to bid for rival trademarks. This followed a European Court ruling which said the practice was acceptable, as long as the ads in question did not mislead people as to which company was behind the advert.
It said at the time: "A company advertising on Google in Europe will now be able to select trademarked terms as keywords. If, for example, a user types in a trademark of a television manufacturer, he could now find relevant and helpful advertisements from resellers, review sites and second hand dealers as well as ads from other manufacturers."
The ad giant said any company with concerns could complain about a specific advert and Google would investigate.
Google rejected the claims of French advertisers. It said: "This change brings our trademark policy in Europe into line with our policies across the rest of the world and enables users to access more relevant information," according to AFP.
The complaint was first made by ad group UDA, which represents firms including Air France, Nestle and BNP Paribas. It has now been joined by three other associations including manufacturing association UNIFAB, which includes luxury brand Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH) among its members.
LVMH has taken previous action against Google, and sued eBay for alleged trademark abuse. ®
Sponsored: Detecting cyber attacks as a small to medium business


text: There's nothing like a little Beyoncé to wake you up in the morning, right? Today, the official clip for "Beyoncé as Mrs. Carter in H&M" hit the web, and it has us seriously longing for a tropical vacation. Featuring looks from H&M's new collection and Bey's new song (!) "Standing on the Sun," the commercial was shot in the Bahamas by Jonas Åkerlund, and has all of the elements we would expect from a Beyoncé video: a killer dance routine, sexy solo shots, and, of course, plenty of covetable fashion. Watch the colorful clip (and start compiling your summer shopping list) below — we already have the new tune stuck in our heads.


text:
THE year was 2009 and the two young suits, one from Australia and the other New Zealand, were living in the concrete jungle of Manhattan.
They were great mates, due to the many links Aussies and Kiwi expatriates share.
The Australian, Trent Martin, was 30 years old at the time and working as a researcher for a global financial firm located a short commute north to Stamford, in the neighbouring state of Connecticut.
The New Zealander was a rising star at a large Manhattan-based corporate law firm known for putting together multibillion-dollar merger and acquisition deals.
The Kiwi can't be named.
US prosecutors have codenamed him "Attorney-1" and say his testimony could send Martin and two other New York stockbrokers to US federal prison for more than 20 years.
If authorities are to be believed, the downfall of Martin and the two stockbrokers, Thomas C Conradt and David J Weishaus, was motivated by greed and betrayal sparked by the release of confidential information from Attorney-1.
"Martin and Attorney-1 sought advice from each other and shared common interests, a common cultural background, and the common experience of being single men who worked in demanding industries and lived far from their home countries of, respectively, Australia and New Zealand," the indictment against Martin states.
"Attorney-1 considered Martin his closest friend in New York City."
The breach of trust, according to prosecutors, began on or about May 31, 2009, when the pair met for brunch at a restaurant in Manhattan.
The lawyer was feeling "significant stress" as a result of being assigned to computing giant IBM's secret acquisition of publicly-traded Chicago-based software company SPSS Inc and confided to Martin that he was "worried he had limited experience working on transactions like IBM/SPSS" and his performance would "affect his professional standing", the indictment states.
The IBM-SPSS deal was highly-confidential, with IBM offering to buy SPSS for a "significant premium".
The Kiwi's law firm took precautions to maintain secrecy, including using faux names for IBM and SPSS in its documents, and prohibiting any person with the firm from revealing "inside" information
The Kiwi, at the brunch while describing his personal and professional concerns, allegedly told Martin that IBM was negotiating to acquire SPSS for "a significant premium over its market price".
A few days later, Martin allegedly bought 1500 shares of SPSS common stock for approximately $US34.20 per share.
Martin is accused of telling flatmate Conradt about the inside information and Conradt then allegedly giving details to his Baltimore law school buddy, Weishaus.
Weishaus allegedly began buying SPSS common stock and call options. Conradt also purchased SPSS common stock, prosecutors allege.
In lewd instant messages between Conradt and Weishaus, allegedly obtained by authorities, Weishaus suggested they get another person to buy 100,000 SPSS shares.
Conradt allegedly responded: "Jesus don't tell anyone else we gotta keep this in the family".
Weishaus allegedly replied: "dude, no way. i don't want to go to jail f*** that, martha stewart spent 5 months in the slammer".
On July 22, 2009, Martin bought 29 SPSS call option contracts at a strike price of $US35, but the following day he visited his Kiwi friend's apartment and revealed he purchased the SPSS common stock and call options and was concerned the "transactions would attract attention", prosecutors allege.
"Attorney-1 was furious and urged Martin to sell his SPSS shares and options immediately," the indictment states.
Martin apologised and on July 24 sold the call option contracts and on July 27 sold 1000 of the 1500 SPSS shares.
On July 28, IBM's acquisition of SPSS was announced, sending SPSS's share price to a close of $US49.45, up 41 per cent from the prior day's close.
Martin, Conradt, Weishaus and two others, codenamed CC-1 and CC-2 who are expected to be prosecution witnesses, sold their SPSS positions, yielding profits of $US7900, $US2538, $US129,290, $US629,954 and $US254,360 respectively, for a total profit in excess of $US1 million ($A956,892), prosecutors allege.
In November, after the US Securities and Exchange Commission launched an insider trading investigation, the Kiwi visited Martin's apartment and noticed Martin was "packing up his belongings to leave New York City".
Martin allegedly told his Kiwi confidant he was returning to Australia in light of the SEC investigation. He noted insider trading offences can lead to jail and referred to the Martha Stewart prosecution.
A little over a week ago authorities caught up with Martin, who had been working in Hong Kong and arrested him on December 22, following a request from the US.
The now 33-year-old has been charged with one count of conspiracy to commit securities fraud and one count of securities fraud.
If convicted of both charges he faces up to 25 years in prison and more than $US5 million in fines. – AAP


text:
Motorola Cliq 2 wallpapers
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Motorola Mobility, Inc., (NYSE: MMI), and T-Mobile USA today announced the upcoming availability of Motorola CLIQ 2 with MOTOBLUR, a 3.7-inch touch-screen smartphone with a slide-out keypad that allows users to play hard and work hard. CLIQ 2 is the latest example of the powerful devices you can expect from Motorola that combine Android software and MOTOBLUR social connectivity, with the addition of new business-ready functionality.
Top, New and Popular Wallpapers for Motorola Cliq 2. The collection of Free Wallpapers for Motorola Cliq 2 right here to be download. We update the collection of Wallpapers daily.
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text:
New for 2018 QuickBooks Premier ~
Insights to up your game
Get a quick read of your business performance from your home page. See top customers, profit and loss, and more.
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Make sense of your business with reports that are easier than ever to read, customize, comment on, interpret, and send.
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Don't waste time sending files to your accountant. Maximize your time by saving your company file on a shared folder directly from QuickBooks.
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Bill clients progressively by job phase
Track and bill clients by time & material, job phase, or percentage completion, whatever works best for your unique business.
Create 'Jobs by Vendor' report
Organize your job costs by vendor, and see which vendors still need to be paid.
Create job estimates and track change orders
As a job changes simply enter change orders into the estimate to keep track of the changes and their impact on your bottom line.
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Customized job cost reports allow you to see a job's profitability on a detailed, task-by-task level.
Track inventory reorder point by vendor
Track inventory and set optimal inventory levels. Run a report showing items that need reordering.
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Keep track of your biggest moneymakers so you'll know which products to promote and keep in stock, and which to drop from your line.
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See all open sales orders and prioritize them how you want. Instantly see which orders can be shipped and which can't.
Create end-of-year donation statements
See who your biggest donors are and track their contributions.
Create Form 990 (Statement of Functional Expenses)
Identify your expenses for presentation to your board, major donors, and the IRS
Run donor contribution summary reports
Track each donor's contribution total as needed.
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Pay and get paid the right amount by quickly and easily setting different billing rates.
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Reports like Billed vs. Proposal by Project, Cost-to-Complete by Job, and Job Costs by Job and Vendor help you stay on top of which projects are most profitable.
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Track sales accurately and flexibly with the Sales Summary Form. Enter total payments and taxable/non-taxable sales for the day, week, or any time period you choose.
Stay on top of inventory and costs
Easily track inventory and set reorder points.
Run a profit and loss report
Easily compare one month's profit and loss against another.
Payment Processing Through QuickBooks Premier Will Eliminate Manual Reconciliation In QuickBooks As Well As Reducing Accounting Errors.
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These Means That You Don't Have To Create These Customer: Jobs A Second Time Into QuickBooks Premier.
Intuit Payments Offers The Ability To Use More Than One Company File For Your Accounting Within QuickBooks.
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Your Credit Card Payment data is process and stored via PCI compliance systems using a safe token instead of storing the Cardholder data.
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We have built a Returns / Voids system into our system which is a high demand feature. This gives you the ability to Void unsettled transactions from your processor or Return the specific amount back to your customer. After a Return or Voided transaction has gone through successfully, your QuickBooks will have either a credit or refund or you can apply that specific payment back to the invoice.
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text:
Explore food is a user-friendly online nutritional analysis tool for secondary school students, available free from Food – a fact of life.
Explore food has been designed to be easy to use, guiding students through the analysis of a recipe or a day's diet. It provides data for the student to analyse and draw conclusions away from their PC or tablet, further supporting their studies.
To access Explore food, click here.
Why use Explore food?
Explore food allows students to:
The tool is useful platform for teachers to demonstrate how changes to the selection and weights of different ingredients, foods and drinks may have an impact to the energy and nutrients provided by a recipe or a diet. Using the day's diet to compare with DRVs can also help to facilitate menu planning to meet the needs of different groups of the population. A detailed teachers' guide is also available, with hints and tips, information about portion sizes and photocopiable planning sheets for students.
Explore Food supports work in Food Prepartion and Nutrition, Food and Nutrition, Food Technology, Home Economics, Catering, Health and Food Technology and Science. It can be used at school or at home.
To support students undertaking recipe and diet nutritional analysis, a series of worksheets have been created - follow these links:
Explore food has been developed by the British Nutrition Foundation (BNF) and has been supported by the All Saints Educational Trust.


text:
AMD Ships Dual-Core Gaming CPU
2006-01-10 AMD 37 Comments
AMD has released its first dual-core Athlon 64 FX processor, the FX-60. The Reg puts it through its paces, and concludes: "AMD Athlon 64 FX-60 is the best consumer processor AMD has ever produced. With effectively a pair of FX-55s sat in the same socket, sharing an efficient memory controller, it's close enough to FX-57 in single-threaded apps that the multi-threaded advantage makes that slender gap moot. Targetted at the well-heeled enthusiast, the new dual-core processor should be a shoo-in for those with FX-57s already, and those with the required readies to drop on the latest and greatest."


text:
SO! It seems the past tutorials on the anime human versions of popular cartoon characters have been majorly successful! Witnessing this makes me 10x more inspired to work on more. So with that, on the night of December 27th's Livestream, I went ahead and suggested the idea of doing an "anime human Hello Kitty". It was INTENSE fun working on this character, especially working on her super cute overalls. I knew right away what type of hairstyle would fit a human version of Hello Kitty, since she's the type of character that would have one like so. The coloring process was the best part of working on this piece. Like my recent works, the coloring and inking have been in a consistent style. Anyways, I've gotta get ready for a Livestream tonight. I hope that you'll enjoy this lesson, and stay tuned for awesome tats in the future! Peace and love guys, don't forget to post your version so I can see and 'eek' out!
DragoArt members upload artwork and drawing tutorials! They are also allowed to leave comments on tutorials, profiles, etc. Many more features, as well; it's way better than just being a boring guest! Register Now!


text:
Louvre Panel Bin Cupboards. Louvre panel bin cupboards from the Bisley ToolStor range provide you with organised small part storage through louvre hanging accessories. A variety of cupboard sizes, colours and plastic storage bins provide a large number of configurations to suit your storage needs. The heavy duty doors provide additional perforation storage alongside the rear louvre panels.
- Starting at: £587.69


text:
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3 Home Inspectors in warren County, NY
Thomas G. Valosin
40 Ratings
ASKUS Consulting Services LLC
Middleburgh, NY
NY State License # 16000005194 Member of InterNACHI Radon, Water Mold & Air Quality, Lead Testing EPA Lead Certified
Each Client is treated as I would expect a family member to be treated. All inspections meet or exceed both NY State & InterNACHI SOP. No "one size fits all" inspection services. Ancillary services are tailored to your needs.
See Company Profile
Christopher Pelkey
2 Ratings
Classic Property Inspection Services
Schenectady, NY
See Company Profile
Robert, Jr. Thorsey
47 Ratings
Old Kinderhook Home Inspections, Inc.
Valatie,, NY
NY State License ID#16000011157 Certified Home Energy Inspector Member NACHI Home Inspector Since 1995 Res/Com Insp.
Retired. Head Build'g Mechanic since 1980 at a School District. Trouble shooting & maintaining buildings, equip & grds. District Energy Manage. NYS lic. Home Inspector since 1997 covering the Hudson Valley Region with full services.
See Company Profile


text:
Brush strokes on oil painting by Siobhan Bedford
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text:
Former "Family Ties" actor Brian Bonsall has been arrested again in Colorado, this time on a charge of using marijuana in violation of the terms of his release.
Deputies handcuffed and led the 28-year-old from a Boulder courtroom Friday after he pleaded not guilty to an assault charge and a failure to report charge involving another case. Bail was set at $10,000.
Bonsall's defense attorney says the actor needs marijuana for headaches and has applied for a medical marijuana card through the state.
He is accused of repeatedly hitting a friend in the head with a broken wooden stool in December and of missing a court hearing in 2007 in another assault case.
Bonsall played the role of the youngest Keaton sibling, Andy, on the NBC sitcom starring Michael J. Fox.
Information from: Daily Camera, http://www.dailycamera.com/
Related Content from AccessHollywood.com:
VIEW THE PHOTOS: Former Child Stars
PLAY IT NOW: Who's Golf's Real Bad Boy?
PLAY IT NOW: Has Charlie Sheen Returned To Work After His Holiday Arrest?
MORE ACCESS ON THESE TOPICS: Michael J. Fox - NBC - Arrests - TV


text:
Here's a brief list of our skills
- SQL Server
- Oracle
- Business intelligence
- SharePoint
Who are we?
- Derek Meyer. sqlstreet.co.uk was Derek's brainchild and without his efforts and hard work thus far the site would not have got off the ground.
- Gethyn Ellis (that's me)
- Charles Kangai (our BI guru)
- Russell "SharePoint" Lewis
You will still be able to find my blog here. It's not going anywhere but will be syndicated at sqlstreet.co.uk, so you can keep up to date there too.


text: We know y'all are clamoring to hear "Strange Clouds". OK. Fine. So are we (psyche, we heard it already). In the meantime, take a listen to B.o.B's "Songs to Hold You Over Until 'Strange Clouds' is Released" playlist on 8tracks and their brand new Android app (get it). They're songs B.o.B is listening to right now. You'll probably enjoy it.


text:
It is kinda strange, it won't connect if I use my straight forward internet connection. But if I connect to my VPN and then connect to the site in questions....it works/comes up perfectly fine.
This issue started on Nov 9th approx in the afternoon (if I remember correctly). Normal methods of connecting to the site worked on morning and afternoon Nov 10th. But then the issue returned in the evening (having to use VPN to connect to site).
Is this issue somehow connected to the Southern Cross Cable? Perhaps they are still trying to resolve something?


text:
Defense leads South Tahoe boys to win
Defense has always been the Vikings' strong point, but Tuesday they took it to another level.
South Tahoe seemed to anticipate Truckee's every move in a 73-42 win at South Tahoe High School.
The win was a compete turnaround from a 36-33 loss to Incline Friday where the Vikings went 0-for-19 from 3-point range.
On Tuesday, the Vikings knocked down 4-of-13 on their 3-point attempts and went 22-for-40 from the 2-point range. They also grabbed 19 steals, six of those coming from John Cefalu, and nine deflections
Check back for a more complete report online or grab the Tahoe Daily Tribune's Friday edition.
Truckee 14 10 13 5 – 42
South Tahoe 19 15 15 24 – 73


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|Jepson Flora Project: Jepson Interchange
previous taxon |
next taxon
Jepson Interchange (more information)
©Copyright 1993 by the Regents of the University of California
Annual to tree
Leaves basal or cauline, alternate to whorled, simple to compound
Inflorescence: 1° inflorescence a head, each resembling a flower, 1many, generally arrayed in cymes, generally subtended by ± calyx-like involucre; flowers 1many per head
Flowers bisexual, unisexual, or sterile, ± small, of several types; calyx 0 or modified into pappus of bristles, scales, or awns, which is generally persistent in fruit; corolla radial or bilateral (rarely 0), lobes generally (0)45; stamens 45, anthers generally fused into cylinder around style, often appendaged at tips, bases, or both, filaments generally free, generally attached to corolla near throat; pistil 1, ovary inferior, 1-chambered, 1-seeded, style 1, branches 2, generally hair-tufted at tip, stigmas 2, generally on inside of style branches
Fruit: achene, cylindric to ovoid, generally deciduous with pappus attached
Genera in family: ± 1300 genera, 21,000 species (largest family of dicots): worldwide. Largest family in CA. Also see tribal key to CA genera: Strother 1997 Madroño 44(1):128. See glossary p. 25 for illustrations of general family characteristics.
Annual, perennial herb, subshrubs, decumbent to erect, taprooted
Stems simple or branched from base or above
Leaves simple, entire to pinnately lobed; basal petioled, ovate to spoon-shaped; cauline reduced upward, sessile, (ob)lanceolate to (ob)ovate
Inflorescence: heads radiate or discoid, terminal, solitary or clustered; involucres hemispheric, bell-shaped, obconic, or cylindric; phyllaries in 49 series, thin to tough but flexible, tips green or tinged purplish; receptacle concave, naked, shallowly pitted
Ray flowers present or 0, fertile or sterile; corollas yellow or white to purple
Disk flowers generally fertile (except L. occidentalis); corollas yellow, violet, purple, pink, or white, funnel-shaped to cylindric, marginal ones in rayless heads often enlarged and bilateral, deeply lobed on inner side, lobes spreading from head center; style appendages flat, triangular, awl-shaped, or cusped
Fruit obconic, mottled purple-brown; hairs dense, appressed, silky; pappus 0 in ray flowers, in disk flowers of many bristles, these free or fused at base, or fused throughout into awns, white, tan, or red-brown
Species in genus: 14 species: CA; NV, AZ, n Baja CA
Etymology: (C.F. Lessing, 18091862, German specialist in Asteraceae)
Incl CA sp. previously treated in Benitoa and Corethrogyne.
Perennial, subshrubs; herbage generally densely white-tomentose, sometimes mostly glabrous or glandular above
Stems erect to decumbent or trailing, < 1 m
Leaves < 7 cm, linear to (ob)ovate, often toothed, reduced and sessile upwards
Inflorescence: heads radiate, solitary or tightly clustered, terminal; involucres 613 mm, obconic or bell-shaped to hemispheric; phyllaries linear to narrowly lanceolate, tips often purplish, becoming reflexed when fruits mature
Ray flowers 1043, sterile; ligules purple, pink, or white
Disk flowers 12120+; corollas tubular, yellow
Fruit < 5 mm; pappus 38 mm, bristles free, red-brown
Chromosomes: 2n=10
Ecology: Widespread in coastal scrub, oak woodlands, grasslands
Elevation: < 2600 m.
Bioregional distribution: North Coast, Klamath Ranges, Outer North Coast Ranges, s Sierra Nevada, San Joaquin Valley, Central Western California, Southwestern California
Distribution outside California: sw Oregon, n Baja California
Highly variable sp.; further division requires additional research. Varieties intergrade.
Stems generally erect, often branched above, < 1 m
Leaves narrowly long-tapered obovate to linear, entire to toothed
Inflorescence: heads 120+ per stem; involucres 613 mm, ± 2 X as long as wide at flower; phyllaries in 49 series
Disk flowers 1240; corollas 46 mm
Ecology: Coastal scrub, oak woodlands, grasslands
Elevation: < 2600 m.
Bioregional distribution: s Sierra Nevada, San Joaquin Valley, Central Western California, Southwestern California
Distribution outside California: n Baja California
Synonyms: Corethrogyne f. (Hook. & Arn.) Nutt., including vars. bernardina (Abrams) H.M. Hall, brevicula (Greene) Canby, hamiltonensis D.D. Keck, incana (Nutt.) Canby, latifolia H.M. Hall, linifolia H.M. Hall, peirsonii Canby, pinetorum I.M. Johnst., robusta Greene, sessilis (Greene) Canby, virgata (Benth.) A. Gray, viscidula (Greene) D.D. Keck; C. leucophylla Jeps
Horticultural information: DRN, SUN: 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24.


text:
I have really enjoyed going on lost family treasure safaris inside the antique stores and flea markets. Finding the proper owners for these precious keepsakes really means a lot to me. I have been able to reunite three item so far with family members. The most meaningful one; to me; was the Powell-Hansley Family Bible. I would like to share with you an excerpt of an email that the family member sent me:
"I have been trying to make a dent in my family ancestry for Hansley. My father is James W Hansley who passed in October 2001. I am very much interested in possessing that bible. I lost family possessions and have very little to go on. Please tell me what information you would need from me. I truly believe that the Lord has answered my prayers. You are an angel sent from above. I believe that finding your site was designed by God's purpose."


text:
Being a search and rescue volunteer always has its challenges. But recently I faced one of my most daunting challenges ever.
No, it wasn't jumping out of a helicopter or jumping into a 40-degree river for swift-water rescue training. It was far worse...and scarier.
I had to figure out how to use the new search and rescue radio.
I'm not really a technophobe, but I do have weird phobias. For example, I'm fearful of both clowns and Congress, although they might share enough in common to make them indistinguishable.
In retrospect, our new radio had all the bells and whistles one would expect:
► The capacity to store hundreds of radio frequencies in a package only slightly larger than half the size of its predecessor, while simultaneously handling new Federal Communications Commission regulations with ease; and
► A user's manual that would make a NASA engineer proud, and probably busy, for the next three months.
Yes, it's a miracle of technology. But my first use of that miracle drove me nuts.
Apparently, I hit a button called "Scan every frequency known to man, and when you're done do a few more." I'm pretty sure I was hearing traffic from passing aircraft, ships far out at sea, and something to do with an order for a cheeseburger and fries at the local burger joint.
As I pressed other buttons, the situation worsened with beeping, screeching, and bellowing. The radio was making sounds, too.
|James Collins is Credit Union Magazine's humor columnist.
This encounter with miracles has practical applications back at the credit union. It's very similar to most financial institutions' approach to in-branch automation. We try something new, expecting it to work because it's "new technology."
Here's an example. This experience happened at a local financial institution in my community (not at my credit union):
Me: I need to deposit $100.
Teller: Sure, please put it into the receptacle labeled "cash" and press the green button.
Me (looking first at the ceiling, then to the ground): Where?
Teller: To your right and down.
Me: It's not working.
Teller: You're putting it in the wrong slot.
Me: Got it.
Teller: What's that grinding sound? Oh goodness, you didn't put change in the slot did you?
Me: You told me to.
Teller: I thought you had bills.
Me: I do. I also have coins.
One hour, two supervisors, and one technician later, the deposit was made—although I think the teller now has a phobia of me because she avoids me like a teenager avoids chores.
I can honestly say this little piece of technology was not helpful—at least to me.
Fundamentally, technology should benefit the consumer in a unique and personally satisfying way—something that companies such as Apple have learned and my neighborhood financial institution has not. I perceived the cash recycler as less of a convenience for me, and more of a work-saver for them.
The takeaway: When your credit union considers automation—whether it's a cash recycler, lobby kiosk, ATM, or even an automated loan system, ask: "How will this help the average person?" and, most important, "Is the benefit to the member readily apparent?"
Too often, the credit union benefits but the member only benefits indirectly.
As for the search and rescue radio, I finally figured it out. I pressed the "OFF" button.
Silence is golden.
JAMES COLLINS is president/CEO at O Bee CU, Tumwater, Wash. Contact him at 360-943-0740.


text:
A Word About Our New Look
Dear Readers,
We're proud to unveil today an updated design for our blog. It aims to make it easier for you to scan our posts and dip into the ones that most interest you, and to participate in discussions with your comments. The new look brings us more in line with WSJ.com's broader redesign last September. You'll see additional improvements in the coming months, as we roll out more features and make it easier to find our posts on WSJ.com.
We welcome any feedback, and count on your suggestions to help make our blogs better as we go forward. WSJ.com subscribers can discuss our blog redesign here.