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George W. Norris
|United States Senator
from Nebraska
|In office
March 4, 1913 – January 3, 1943
|Preceded by
|Norris Brown
|Succeeded by
|Kenneth S. Wherry
|Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Nebraska's 5th district
|In office
March 4, 1903 – March 3, 1913
|Preceded by
|Ashton C. Shallenberger
|Succeeded by
|Silas Reynolds Barton
|Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Judiciary
|In office
August 1926 – March 3, 1933
|Preceded by
|Albert B. Cummins
|Succeeded by
|Henry F. Ashurst
|Personal details
George William Norris
July 11, 1861
York Township, Sandusky County, Ohio
|September 2, 1944 (aged 83)
McCook, Nebraska
|Political party
|Republican (until 1936)
|Pluma Lashley (m. 1889, dec. 1901
Ellie Leonard (m. 1903)
|Alma mater
|Baldwin University
Northern Indiana Normal School
George William Norris (July 11, 1861 – September 2, 1944) was a politician from the state of Nebraska in the Midwestern United States. He served five terms in the United States House of Representatives as a Republican, from 1903 until 1913, and five terms in the United States Senate, from 1913 until 1943, four terms as a Republican and the final term as an independent. Norris was defeated for reelection in 1942.
Norris was a leader of progressive and liberal causes in Congress. He is best known for his intense crusades against what he characterized as "wrong and evil",[1] his liberalism, his insurgency against party leaders, his isolationist foreign policy, his support for labor unions, and especially for creating the Tennessee Valley Authority. President Franklin Roosevelt called him "the very perfect, gentle knight of American progressive ideals," and this has been the theme of all of his biographers.[2] A 1957 advisory panel of 160 scholars recommended that Norris was the top choice for the five best Senators in U.S. history.[3]
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Early life
Norris was born in 1861 in York Township, Sandusky County, Ohio and was the eleventh child of poor, uneducated, farmers of Scots-Irish and Pennsylvania Dutch descent. He graduated from Baldwin University and earned his LL.B. degree in 1883 at the law school of Valparaiso University. He moved to Beaver City, Nebraska to practice law. In 1889 he married Pluma Lashley; the couple had three daughters (Gertrude, Hazel, and Marian) before her 1901 death. Norris then married Ellie Leonard in 1903; they had no children.
Political career
House insurgent
Norris relocated to the larger town of McCook in 1900, where he became active in local politics. In 1902, running as a Republican, he was elected to the House of Representatives for Nebraska's 5th congressional district. In that election, he was supported by the railroads; however, in 1906 he broke with them, supporting Theodore Roosevelt's plans to regulate rates for the benefit of shippers, such as the merchants who lived in his district. A prominent insurgent after 1908, he led the revolt against Speaker Joseph G. Cannon in 1910. By a vote of 191 to 156, the House created a new system in which seniority would automatically move members ahead, even against the wishes of the leadership.
In January 1911, he helped create the National Progressive Republican League and was its vice president. He originally supported Robert M. La Follette, Sr. for the 1912 presidential nomination but then switched to Roosevelt. However, he refused to bolt the convention and join Roosevelt's Progressive Party. He instead ran for the Senate as a Republican.
As a leading Progressive Republican, Norris supported the direct election of senators. He also promoted the conversion of all state legislatures to the unicameral system. This was implemented in 1934 only in the Nebraska Legislature; all other states have retained a two-house system.
Norris supported some of President Woodrow Wilson's domestic programs but became a firm isolationist, fearing that bankers were manipulating the country into war. In the face of enormous pressure from the media and the administration, Norris was one of only six senators to vote against the declaration of war on Germany in 1917.
Looking at the war in Europe he said, "Many instances of cruelty and inhumanity can be found on both sides." Norris believed that the government wanted to take part in this war only because the wealthy had already aided the British financially in the war. He told Congress that the only people who would benefit from the war were "munition manufacturers, stockbrokers, and bond dealers" and added that "war brings no prosperity to the great mass of common and patriotic citizens.... War brings prosperity to the stock gambler on Wall Street–to those who are already in possession of more wealth than can be realized or enjoyed."[4]
He joined the "irreconcilables" who vehemently opposed and defeated the Treaty of Versailles and the League of Nations in 1919.
Seniority brought him the chairmanship of the Agriculture and Forestry and the Judiciary committees. Norris was a leader of the Farm Bloc, advocated the rights of labor, sponsored the ("Lame Duck") Twentieth Amendment to the United States Constitution,[5] and proposed to abolish the Electoral College. He failed on these issues in the 1920s, but blocked Henry Ford's proposals to modernize the Tennessee Valley through a major dam at Muscle Shoals, insisting that it was a project the government should handle. Norris twice succeeded in getting Congress to pass legislation for a federal electric power system based at Muscle Shoals, but it was vetoed by presidents Coolidge and Hoover. Norris said of Hoover's veto in 1931: Norris demanded public power because he distrusted privately owned utilities.[6] Norris said of Hoover:
- Using his power of veto, he destroyed the Muscle Shoals bill—a measure designated to utilize the great government property at Muscle Shoals for the cheapening of fertilizer for American agriculture and utilization of the surplus power for the benefit of people without transmission distance of the development. The power people want no yardstick which would expose their extortionate rates so Hoover killed the bill after it had been passed by both houses of congress.[7]
The idea for the Muscle Shoals Bill in 1933 became part of the New Deal's Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).[8]
Although a nominal Republican (which was essential to his seniority), he routinely attacked and voted against the Republican administrations of Warren G. Harding, Calvin Coolidge, and Herbert Hoover. Norris supported Democrats Al Smith and Franklin D. Roosevelt for president in 1928 and 1932, respectively. Republican regulars called him one of the "sons of the wild jackass."
Norris was a staunch "dry," battling against alcohol even when the crusade lost favor in the Great Depression. He told voters that prohibition means "this greatest evil of all mankind is driven from the homes of the American people," even if it means "we are giving up some of our personal rights and personal privileges."[9]
In 1932, along with Fiorello H. La Guardia, then a Republican Representative from New York City, Norris secured passage of the Norris–La Guardia Act, which outlawed the practice of requiring prospective employees not to join a labor union as a condition of employment (the so-called yellow-dog contract) and greatly limited the use of court injunctions against strikes.
New Dealer
A staunch supporter of President Roosevelt's New Deal programs, Norris sponsored the Tennessee Valley Authority Act of 1933. In appreciation, the Norris Dam [1] and Norris, Tennessee, a new planned city in Tennessee, were named after him.[10][11] Norris was also the prime Senate mover behind the Rural Electrification Act, which brought electrical service to underserved and unserved rural areas across the United States. It is also a testament to Norris' belief in "public power" that there have been no privately owned electric utilities operating in Nebraska since the late 1940s.
Norris believed in the wisdom of the common people and in the progress of civilization.[12] "To get good government and to retain it, it is necessary that a liberty-loving, educated, intelligent people should be ever watchful, to carefully guard and protect their rights and liberties," Norris said in a 1934 speech, "The Model Legislature." The people were capable of being the government, he said, affirming his populist/progressive credentials.[13] To alert the people, he called for transparency in government. "Publicity," he proclaimed, "is the greatest cure for evils which may exist in government." [14]
Norris left the Republicans in 1936 since seniority in the minority party was useless, and the Democrats offered him chairmanships. He was re-elected to the Senate as an Independent with some Democratic Party support in 1936. Norris won with 43.8% of the vote against Republican former congressman Robert G. Simmons (who came in second) and Democratic former congressman Terry Carpenter (who came in a distant third).
Norris opposed Roosevelt's Judiciary Reorganization Bill of 1937 to pack the Supreme Court and railed against corrupt patronage. In late 1937, when Norris saw the famous photograph "Bloody Saturday" (showing a burned Chinese baby crying in a bombed-out train station), he shifted his stance on isolationism and non-interventionism. Siding against Japanese violence in China, he called the Japanese "disgraceful, ignoble, barbarous, and cruel, even beyond the power of language to describe."[15]
Unable to secure Democratic support in the state in 1942, he was defeated by Republican Kenneth S. Wherry. He parted from office saying, "I have done my best to repudiate wrong and evil in government affairs."[1]
Norris is one of eight senators profiled in John F. Kennedy's Profiles in Courage, included for opposing Speaker Cannon's autocratic power in the House, for speaking out against arming U.S. merchant ships during the United States' neutral period in World War I, and for supporting the presidential campaign of Democrat Al Smith.
The principal north-south street through downtown McCook, Nebraska is named George Norris Avenue. Norris's house in McCook is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and is operated as a museum by the Nebraska State Historical Society.
The west legislative chamber of the Nebraska State Capitol, home of the legislature since 1937, was named in Norris's honor in February 1984.
George W. Norris Middle School in Omaha, Nebraska, the George W. Norris K – 12 school system near Firth, Nebraska, and George W. Norris Elementary School in Millard Public Schools stand as a memorial to the late Senator. When several public power districts in southeastern Nebraska merged into one in 1941, the new utility was named the Norris Public Power District in Senator Norris' honor.
See also
- ^ a b Fred Greenbaum (2000). Men Against Myths: The Progressive Response. Greenwood. p. 7.
- ^ Robert Muccigrosso, ed., Research Guide to American Historical Biography (1988) 3:1165
- ^ "Traditions of the senate." Norris was not recommended due to opposition from Styles Bridges,
- ^ ["Opposition to Wilson's War Message" http://www.mtholyoke.edu/acad/intrel/doc19.htm]
- ^ "More about Senator George Norris". Nebraska State Historical Society. Retrieved April 18, 2010.
- ^ Tobey, Ronald C. (1996). Technology as Freedom: The New Deal and the Electrical Modernization of the American Home. University of California Press. pp. 46–48.
- ^ From "NORRIS CALLS FOR DEFEAT OF HOOVER IN 1932" Archived 2004-09-19 at the Wayback Machine
- ^ Norman Wengert, "Antecedents of TVA: The Legislative History of Muscle Shoals." Agricultural History (1952) 26#4 pp: 141–147. in JSTOR
- ^ Burton W. Folsom (1999). No More Free Markets Or Free Beer: The Progressive Era in Nebraska, 1900–1924. Lexington Books. p. 72.
- ^ TVA: An American Ideal
- ^ TVA: Norris Reservoir
- ^ Charlyne Berens, One House, The unicameral's Progressive Vision for Nebraska (2005, University of Nebraska Press)
- ^ Robert F. Wesser, "George W. Norris, The Unicameral Legislature and the Progressive Ideal," Nebraska History (December 1964)
- ^ Mark H. Leff (2003). The Limits of Symbolic Reform: The New Deal and Taxation, 1933–1939. Cambridge U.P. p. 69.
- ^ Paterson, Thomas G.; Clifford, John Garry; Hagan, Kenneth J. (1999). American Foreign Relations: A history since 1895. American Foreign Relations. 2 (5 ed.). Houghton Mifflin. p. 151. ISBN 0-395-93887-2.
- Fellman, David. "The Liberalism of Senator Norris," American Political Science Review (1946) 40:27–41 in JSTOR
- Lowitt, Richard
- George W. Norris: The Making of a Progressive, 1861–1912 (1963)
- George W. Norris; The Persistence of a Progressive, 1913–1933 (1971)
- George W. Norris: The Triumph of a Progressive, 1933–1944 (1978)
- "George W Norris: A Reflective View," Nebraska History 70 (1989): 297-302. online
- Norris, George W. Fighting Liberal: The Autobiography of George W. Norris (1945; reprinted 1972)
- Zucker, Norman L. George W. Norris: Gentle Knight of American Democracy (1966) online
External links
|Wikimedia Commons has media related to George W. Norris.
- "An American Ideal (Norris, Tennessee). Tennessee Valley Authority
- "RESERVOIRS AND POWER PLANTS: Norris Reservoir." Tennessee Valley Authority.
- United States Congress. "George W. Norris (id: N000139)". Biographical Directory of the United States Congress.
- Senator George Norris State Historic Site operated by the Nebraska State Historical Society
- George W. Norris: U.S. Legislator from Nebraska -a learning resource
- Federal Bureau of Investigation Records: The Vault - Sen. George W. Norris (over 100 pages)
|U.S. House of Representatives
|Preceded by
Ashton C. Shallenberger
| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from Nebraska's 5th congressional district
|Succeeded by
Silas Reynolds Barton
|U.S. Senate
|Preceded by
Norris Brown
| U.S. Senator (Class 2) from Nebraska
Served alongside: Gilbert M. Hitchcock, Robert B. Howell,
William H. Thompson, Richard C. Hunter, Edward R. Burke, Hugh A. Butler
|Succeeded by
Kenneth S. Wherry
|Political offices
|Preceded by
Albert B. Cummins
| Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee
|Succeeded by
Henry F. Ashurst


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Export 9 results:Author [ Type] Year
Filters: Author is Ron R Peeters [Clear All Filters]
Journal Article
"Special designed RF-antenna with integrated non-invasive carbon electrodes for simultaneous MRI and EEG acquisition at 7T", Magnetic Resonance Imaging, vol. 18, no. 7, pp. 887-891, 2000. Download full paper (179 KB)
"Quantitative diffusion tensor imaging in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: revisited.", Human brain mapping, vol. 30, issue 11, pp. 3657-75, 2009 Nov.
"Diffusion kurtosis imaging in the grading of gliomas", Radiology, vol. 2, no. 263, pp. 492-501, 2012.
"Comprehensive framework for accurate diffusion MRI parameter estimation", Magnetic Resonance in Medicine, vol. 81, issue 4, pp. 972-984, 2013. ISMRM 2013 poster (476.78 KB)
Conference Paper
"Simultaneously recording of EEG/fMRI to study neurophysiological changes in rat brain during pentetrazol induced epileptic seizures", Federation of European Neuroscience (FENS) Millennium Meeting, vol. 12, Brighton, UK, pp. 107, June, 2000.
"On-line simultaneous BOLD/EEG measurements of functional activity during pentylenetetrazol induced epilepsy in the rat", 16th annual meeting of the European Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine and Biology (ESMRMB00), Paris, France, September, 2000.
"Novel design of an RF-antenna with integrated EEG electrodes for combined EEG and fMRI in animals", 16th annual meeting: Magnetic Resonance Materials in Physics, Biology, and Medicine, Sevilla, Spain, September, 1999.
"Changes during pentetrazol-induced epilepsy in rat recorded by simultaneous EEG/MRI at 7T", SPIE Medical Imaging, vol. 3978, San Diego, USA, pp. 485-493, February, 2000.
Conference Abstract
"Mean Kurtosis: a new potential biomarker for brain tumor grading", 3rd meeting of the ISMRM Benelux Chapter, Hoeven, The Netherlands, January, 2011. Download abstract (369.6 KB)

subset: commoncrawl


text:
In Equilibrium, which takes place in the not too distant future, emotion has been outlawed. But some things are still the same; the Cadillac STS is still available (though masking tape is applied to hide its markings). And it is driven by a new breed of law-enforcement officer called -- and please don't laugh until I finish this -- Grammaton Cleric, assigned to squash the sense crimes of what could be called the emotion underground.
The Clerics -- who are all men, so women are even more repressed -- practice a particularly nasty martial and handgun art called Gunkata. In the near future, I guess, bullets are neither deadly nor photogenic enough to accomplish the job.
One of these men, John Preston (Christian Bale), is at the center of Equilibrium, a ridiculous sci-fi action melodrama and breath mint. If someone left 1984, Fahrenheit 451, Brave New World, Gattaca and the Sylvester Stallone potboilers Judge Dredd and Demolition Man out in the sun and threw the runny glop onto a movie screen, it would still be a better picture than Equilibrium, a movie that could be stupider only if it were longer.
Emotion, it seems, caused a third world war. To prevent a fourth, feelings have been made illegal, done away with by a drug called Prozium, which citizens administer to themselves daily. Based on the slender, concave shape of faces of the future, Prozium is as effective a weight-loss tool as those sandwiches at Subway.
The slender, sleek Preston has repressed everything about himself, including Bale's English accent. He has the mid-Atlantic vowels of one of the DJ's at a Virgin megastore. Devoted and loyal in carrying out the orders of the government, Preston stumbles into the underground when it turns out that one of them was (gasp) right next to him -- his own Cleric partner, whom he executes.
Directed by: Kurt Wimmer
Starring: Christian Bale (John Preston), Emily Watson (Mary O'Brien), Taye Diggs (Brandt), Angus MacFadyen (Dupont), Sean Bean (Partridge), Matthew Harbour (Robbie Preston) and William Fichtner (Jurgen)
Running time: 100 minutes
Taiwan Release: Today
His confidence shaken because he thought himself intuitive enough to know what was going on in the mind of any man, Preston is given an ambitious and perhaps even more empathetic young partner, Brandt (Taye Diggs, whose cheekbones are even more beautiful than Bale's). And there are further fissures in Preston's resolve; his wife was also executed for sense crimes, leaving him a widower with two young children.
When he starts to have, um, feelings for the beautiful underground member (Emily Watson) he has just arrested, a question arises: Will Preston forsake the road before him for the pursuit of real, live emotion?
Equilibrium is pretty silly stuff. The writer and director, Kurt Wimmer, has obviously made a movie where independent thought has been banished, since the whole picture looks like Ridley Scott's Orwellian Apple commercial from 1984. I'm as up as anyone for a well-staged action sequence, but the punches thrown here make the movie look as if it was based on a video game.
The Clerics' fascist chic wardrobe and their Gunkata will probably have the makers of The Matrix scouring every frame for copyright infringement. The true sleaziness comes after Preston beats a brace of fellow cops to their bloody, picturesque deaths to protect a puppy from execution. Just when you think Equilibrium can't sink any lower, the movie slaughters shame, too.


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Second rehab start for Cashner already set
PITTSBURGH -- Andrew Cashner's first Minor League rehabilitation start went so well that the team will send him back out on another one on Wednesday, this time with Triple-A El Paso.
Cashner, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since June 21 with right shoulder soreness, tossed two scoreless innings on Friday for Class A Advanced Lake Elsinore. Cashner allowed one hit with three strikeouts. He threw 24 pitches, 19 for strikes.
"His velocity was his normal … low 90s, up to 94 a few times," said Padres manager Bud Black. "He threw great and was very efficient. We got good reports from a number of guys."
Cashner will throw a side session on Sunday in Lake Elsinore and will be back at Petco Park on Monday to work out with the team before heading to El Paso, the team's wildly successful first-year Triple-A affiliate.
Black confirmed that Cashner would make two more Minor League rehab appearances in order to build his endurance, and also his pitch count to between "75 and 80" pitches.
That could potentially put Cashner in a position to rejoin the Padres' starting rotation on or around Aug. 23.
"He's on the move," Black said. "He's feeling good."
Cashner is 2-6 with a 2.36 ERA in 12 starts. He also missed time in May with soreness in his right elbow.


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Alessandra Ambrosio's Birthday Dinner in LA
Alessandra Ambrosio Celebrates Her Birthday in a Sexy White Dress
Alessandra Ambrosio got a head start on celebrating her 32nd birthday at dinner with friends and family at Bagatelle in LA last night. She wore a sexy white dress on the arm of Jamie Mazur on her way into the special event, which featured a personalized menu and birthday balloons. Alessandra's big day is actually today, and the fun continued with breakfast at home with her family, including her kids, Anja and Noah, this morning. She also received plenty of messages from fans and showed her appreciation on Twitter, writing, "Thank you so much for all the lovely birthday wishes! You have made my day even more special!"
Alessandra's exciting week comes after a low-key month spent near home so far. She's been hanging out with her family and shopping with friends, just as the Victoria's Secret Summer of Sexy catalog was released. The magazine features Alessandra along with other VS models, though Angel Miranda Kerr is noticeably absent despite confirmation that she's still working with the brand after rumors swirled that the two had parted ways this week.


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Expert Reviews
2012 Chrysler 300
The Chrysler 300 is a full-size four-door sedan that comes in a variety of models to suit a style, performance, or set of features. Whether V6 or V8 and regardless of model it's a roomy, comfortable, quiet cruiser. Apart from its relative the Dodge Charger, the Chrysler 300 is the only rear-wheel-drive sedan we can think of that you can get for less than $35,000.
Thoroughly revamped and restyled for 2011, the 2012 Chrysler 300 nonetheless gets some revisions. Some new models have joined the lineup for 2012: a stylish Chrysler 300S, the new Chrysler 300C Luxury Series, and a new Chrysler 300 SRT8 super-sedan.
The Chrysler 300S is a sportier 300, with 20-inch wheels and firmer suspension.
2012 Chrysler 300 V6 models offer a new 8-speed automatic transmission from ZF that makes the Hemi V8-powered car nearly irrelevant. With this new transmission, the V6 gets an EPA-estimated 31 mpg Highway.
A new, optional navigation system is the best we've ever seen, with a large, 8.4-inch screen that's easily understood at a glance and easy to operate. We highly recommend opting for it. Also new for 2012 are the usual assortment of color and wheel design upgrades, and not one but new sound system upgrades.
The Chrysler 300 has all the heritage traits of an American luxury sedan such as room, comfort, endless features and amenities, power and a degree of presence, yet is also has good road manners, stops and changes directions as well as it goes. It also has a distinctive look ever harder to find in this era of economy-driven aerodynamics, pedestrian impact standards and corporate styling.
All-wheel drive is available. The ride height on 2012 Chrysler 300 AWD models is slightly lower than on 2011 models.
The Chrysler 300 comes in nearly any combination of V6 or V8 engine, 5- or 8-speed automatic, and rear- or all-wheel drive.
The 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 model comes packed with a 470-hp 6.4-liter V8 (only a Corvette ZO6's is larger), Brembo brakes, forged alloy wheels, and Bilstein adaptive dampers similar to those Maserati uses. It's quick and good bang for the buck.
Consideration for the Chrysler 300 covers a wide spectrum including the Cadillac CTS, Lincoln MKS, Lexus GS, Infiniti M, Hyundai Genesis, Volvo S60, BMW 3 Series by price or 5 Series by size, and Mercedes C and E classes for the same criteria. A 300C AWD can compete with Ford's Taurus SHO.
At about $47,000, the SRT8 is a cost-effective sports sedan alternative to Cadillac's CTS-V, BMW's M-cars and Mercedes-Benz's AMG E-Class. A Hyundai Genesis R-Spec is near identically priced but we don't find it a performance match.
Model LineupChrysler 300 ($27,170); Limited ($32,170), AWD ($34,320); 300S V6 ($33,170), AWD ($35,320); 300C ($38,170), AWD ($40,320); 300S V8 ($39,710), AWD ($41,320)
Walk Around
The front of the Chrysler 300 looks like a large sedan version of the Chrysler 200 midsize sedan and Town & Country minivan, with many of the same visual cues in the grille, headlamps, air intakes and front bumper. It's much sleeker and more rounded at the nose, but carries a much lower aerodynamic drag coefficient because of the rounded elements and the very laid-back windshield angle. Neither the windshield nor the rear window carries any bright moldings at all, unusual for a luxury car, but it works on the 300.
On the S and SRT versions a gloss-black grille and headlight housings framed against monochrome bodywork; it's hard to imagine understated and menacing applied to the same car but that's how it looks. Think of an S as what you needed a customizer for previously but can now get with factory fit, finish and warranty. Add in big dark wheels and the S and SRT versions deliver the aggressiveness of an AMG E-Class or Cadillac CTS-V with more elegant machinery like a Bentley GT. We have mixed feelings about the styling, especially that of the 300 SRT8. It looks like an upscale hot rod, but we're not sure it quite pulls it off. If you're going for the hot rod look, a Dodge Challenger seems more appropriate. The styling seems to work best on the standard models.
The profile of the Chrysler 300 shows pronounced wheel lips front and rear, and they are connected by a sharp body line that starts at the trailing edge of the front wheel well and rises continuously to finish at the side of the tail lamps. That line, coupled with the larger side windows, narrower pillars, and another sculpted line at the bottom of the doors, does wonders to slim down and muscle up the look of the 300.
At the rear, there's a chrome bar running across the bottom edge of the decklid between the new vertical LED taillamps and a tall, flat rear bumper between the exhaust outlets that widens the look of the car at the rear. The execution of the LED daytime running lights at the front and the LED rear lamps is excellent. The S and SRT have deeper panels and a lip spoiler for stability. If it were ours we'd peel off the SRT8 emblem and keep people guessing.
The Chrysler 300 instrument panel, seat trims, center stack, switches and controls, door panels and door pockets were all redesigned for 2011. The largest changes you'll notice for 2012 are the 8-speed shifter, two upper-echelon sound systems and the SRT8's more distinguished interior.
This is a big car, and the interior roominess and dimensions front and rear are suitably generous. One of the more pleasant surprises in the Chrysler 300 is the amount of light entering the car.
The interior environment is classy without being fussy, and the LED lighting and instrumentation are spot-on. Upholstery can be cloth, leather, or suede and leather on SRT8 and trim is faux wood, real wood, carbon-fiber or piano black lacquer style; interior adornment is generally matte-finish chrome so annoying reflections are minimal.
The instrument panel contains a bright gauge package, with crisp graphics and ice-blue accent lighting that is brilliantly legible day or night.
The center stack is dominated by a large (8.4-inch) touch-screen control system, with audio and climate functions. Optional is a brilliantly colorful, large-icon Garmin navigation system. This system, because of its size, graphics, and capabilities, may be the best all-around nav system currently available, easy to read, easy to use, and often readable from the back seat. We highly recommend it. Turn onto Beaver Brook Road and in big type at the top of the screen it says, "Driving on Beaver Brook Road." We love it.
The 300's new four-spoke padded steering wheel has a nice, thick leather-wrapped rim and a thickly padded hub flanked by redundant switches for the voice-activated telephone, cruise control, sound system, and driver information center. On S and SRT models magnesium paddle shifters rise behind the horizontal spokes. They work well except several times we'd bump one of the paddles when making a tight turn, such as turning left at a stop sign; this manually selected first gear, which we wouldn't notice until when the car didn't automatically shift into second while accelerating away from the intersection. It's a minor annoyance but worth mentioning.
All the materials in the seats, door trim panels, headliner and instrument panel are appropriate, yielding either the classic warm luxury environment in the 300 Limited or a more youthful, efficient style in the S and SRT. Either way the cabin is a quiet, calming place where miles are put away with ease; and a fuel tank can last 500 miles on the open road.
Two new audio systems are available. The Beats By Dr. Dre package features 10 speakers, one trunk-mounted subwoofer and a 552-watt 12-channel amplifier. Lest that's not enough, the Harman-Kardon system uses 19 speakers with subwoofer and a 900-watt 12-channel amplifier for 7.1 surround sound.
SRT8 models get a unique steering wheel with flattened bottom, sport seats that fit even big guys, carbon-fiber look trim and dark accents, and the touch-screen adds choices like steering angle, additional instrumentation and sport-mode switching for suspension, engine and transmission.
The trunk capacity of the Chrysler 300 is 16.3 cubic feet. Plus, every Chrysler 300 has a split-fold 60/40 rear seat for longer items.
Driving Impressions
The standard engine in the Chrysler 300 and Limited models is the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with double overhead cams, 24 valves, and variable valve timing that aids flexibility and good fuel economy. The V6 puts out 292 horsepower at 6350 rpm, 260 pound-feet of torque at 4800 rpm. Like many modern engine it makes power high up the rev band, so don't be afraid to rev it. It's plenty smooth and delivers strong propulsion. With the 300's standard 5-speed automatic it rates an EPA-estimated 18/27/21 City/Highway/Combined miles per gallon.
However, a new 8-speed automatic bumps that to 19/31 City/Highway mpg because it allows easier acceleration and lower engine speed on the highway. With gentle throttle it will get into top gear at 50 mph with the engine running just 1000 rpm, allowing level interstate cruising on minimal fuel. An all-wheel-drive V6 with the 8-speed automatic rates the same 18/27 mpg as a rear-drive 5-speed automatic.
The 8-speed also gets a new shifter. It has four positions (PRND) and a +/- gate to the side for manual operation. The stubby T-handle looks like an inverted putter head and is essentially an electronic switch. As a result the same motion is used for changing from Drive to Sport or Sport to Drive, and it's very easy to get Park when you want Reverse by pushing once too often. If it's your only car you'll grow accustomed; if you drive more than one automatic then acclimation will take longer.
The 300C and 300S V8 come with the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine, generating 363 horsepower and 394 foot-pounds of torque at lower rpm than the V6. Paired with a 5-speed automatic it rates 16/25/19 mpg (15/23 with all-wheel drive) and mid-grade gasoline is specified. While the extra 71 horses over the V6 and infectious sound get the headlines, it's the 134 lb-ft of added torque that shows up far more often. Not many $40,000 four-doors will launch as hard as an all-wheel-drive Hemi.
We've sampled everything from the base, cloth upholstered V6 to the hairy-chested (but buttoned up) SRT8, and for most drivers the V6 will be more than adequate. It has adequate power when you need it and uses minimal fuel when you don't, and never makes untoward noise or vibration. We'd opt for the 8-speed automatic both to maximize efficiency and because it improves feel, performance and response.
We exercised, pushed and stressed Chrysler 300s in the hills and valleys, sinewy mountain roads and a racetrack and found them to be wonderful traveling companions. The variable-ratio electro-hydraulic power steering system has a lovely, firm feel to it, as though it's actually connected to and directing something down there on the road surface, and the car turns in with authority and without objectionable body roll. On S models the steering is faster and effort is increased with the V8, dare we say perfectly matching that model's composure.
Ride quality is smooth, comfortable and quiet. The cabin has been quieted down considerably with the addition of an acoustic bellypan under the car, acoustic material in the wheel wells and pillars, laminated front glass, multiple door seals, and an acoustic wrap around the complete interior to block out noise from the mechanical systems, the wind and the tires. Chrysler claims it's quieter than a Lexus LS460, an admirable claim, but we can say only that it is clear enough to hear a trumpet soloist breathe while the car is gliding along at 100 mph.
The anti-lock brake package with electronic brake-force distribution has everything you could ask for in terms of power, pedal modulation, and emergency capabilities, and is the largest component of a very complete safety package that includes traction control, stability control, and front, side, roof and driver knee air bags.
The SRT8 pushes the realm of super sedan. With a 470-hp big-bore V8, solid-shifting 5-speed automatic, adaptive dampers from Bilstein, four-piston Brembo brakes and lighter forged alloy wheels with fairly sticky 20-inch tires the SRT8 adds to every dynamic. It's muted enough to make a fast, comfortable touring machine and amped-up enough to make quick work of any road. The 5-speed auto does what it's told but isn't as advanced as much of the competition's 6-, 7-, and 8-speeds. Fuel economy is respectable only compared to other super-sedans, and it isn't as fast as things like the Cadillac CTS-V or Mercedes E63 AMG. However, using all those cars delivers usually requires a racetrack. Also, the SRT8 costs $15,000-$40,000 less, and a set of replacement tires is about two-thirds that of the other cars.
Stand on the gas and the SRT8 accelerates like a rocket, with truckloads of torque. It feels like a modern muscle car. When cruising, it comes up short in the refinement category. The big-horsepower versions of all of these big, luxury hot rods lack some of the refinement of the less-stressed versions, but this seems particularly true with the Chrysler 300 SRT8. There's a clunky factor here. If we're going to suffer the downsides of a hot rod, we prefer the looks and character of the Dodge Challenger or Charger to the 300 SRT8.
The Chrysler 300 is a big American car with room, comfort, power, presence. It comes in a wide range of models and offers a good value.
NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent G.R. Whale reported from Los Angeles; with Jim McCraw reporting from San Diego; and Mitch McCullough in New York.


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Vanessa Greene, director of multicultural education at Hope College, received "Women of Achievement" recognition during the 37th annual YWCA TRIBUTE! Awards luncheon held in downtown Grand Rapids at DeVos Place on Wednesday, Nov. 6.
Featuring the theme "eliminating racism, empowering women," the event honored local women and female high school students for their personal accomplishments and commitments to the community. The program recognized 39 "Women of Distinction," who were nominated by sponsors of the YWCA, in addition to presenting individual awards in seven categories (advocacy; arts; business, management, industry and labor; community service; professions; sports, fitness and wellness; and student honoree).
Greene, who was honored with the "Women of Distinction" recognition by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, has been director of multicultural education at Hope since 2003. She works with faculty, administrators, student groups, and community leaders to create greater awareness and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
During her tenure at Hope, she has led numerous new initiatives, including extensive programming in honor of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Cesar Chavez, as well as luncheons and programs with keynote speakers, marches, film reviews, diversity workshops, and dialogues. She developed a Multicultural Leadership program and has sponsored highly successful leadership conferences and retreats for students. She also serves on numerous campus boards and committees to promote academic excellence, spiritual growth, leadership development, and social justice.
She is currently serving a second term as the president of the Grand Rapids Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., a national organization founded on Christian principles with a mission of community service. She was instrumental in chartering the college's Tau Psi chapter of the sorority in 2005.
Her past community activities include having served as a member of the board of the Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Alliance (LEDA); co-chairing the Leadership Orientation Program Committee of the City of Holland's Multicultural Resource Network; and directing the "START NOW!!! Get Ready for College Program," which she founded. She lives in Wyoming and is a member of Messiah Missionary Baptist Church in Grand Rapids, where she is actively involved in the "children's church" ministry.
Immediately prior to coming to Hope, she had worked in Continuing Education at Grand Valley State University for several years. Her professional experience has also included six years in vocational rehabilitation and five years as an entrepreneur.
In 2002, Grand Valley's Counseling and Career Development Center presented her with the "Counselor of the Year Award." In 2003, she received the "Champion of Diversity" award from LEDA. In 2005, she received an award from the Wolverine State Baptist Convention Women's Auxiliary for achievements in Christian Education and Religious Promotion in Human Relations, as well as a mentoring award from the college's multicultural student organizations. In October 2007 she was one of 21 nominees for the Lakeshore ATHENA Award presented by the Chamber of Grand Haven, Spring Lake and Ferrysburg; the Holland Area Chamber of Commerce; and the Muskegon Area Chamber of Commerce. In 2008, she received the "Phyllis Scott Activist Award," recognized for her efforts on behalf of minority students, during the 26th annual Giants Banquet and Awards Ceremony honoring individuals and organizations for making exceptional contributions in shaping the history and quality of life in Greater Grand Rapids.
Greene graduated from Grand Valley with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice in 1983. She completed a master's in education, in college student affairs leadership, at Grand Valley in 1998.


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Lil B's Fan Base Is Nuts: Some Idiot Shouts "Thank You BasedGod" On Fox News After Osama Bin Laden's Death Announcement!
Credit @ThisIzRo
Original video by @CaliforniaLA
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Get ready to toast to Ireland's most beloved saint this St. Patrick's Day with these five delicious drink recipes. With a little effort, these boozy beverages will turn any St. Patty's Day into a celebration that even St. Patrick himself would raise a glass to. So skip the crowds, long lines and Uber surcharges this year by opting to host your own Irish shenanigan amongst friends and one tipsy leprechaun.
Boozy Shamrock Shake
- 4 cups Vanilla Ice Cream
- 1/4 cup Milk
- 2 oz Creme de Menthe
- 2 oz Vanilla Vodka
- Green Food Coloring
- Whipped cream
- Cherries (optional)
- In a blender combine the vanilla ice cream, milk, Creme de Menthe, vanilla vodka and food coloring.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour into glasses.
- Top with whip cream and a cherry to garnish.
Pot of Gold
- 1.5 oz Vodka
- 1.5 oz Baileys
- Splash of Kahlua
- Splash of Milk
- Whip Cream
- Lucky Charm Marshmallows
- In a cocktail shaker combine the vodka, Baileys, Kahlua, milk and shake.
- Pour the cocktail into a rocks glass over ice.
- Top with whip cream.
- Garnish with Lucky Charms Marshmallows.
Sparkling Shamrock
- Champagne
- Midori Melon Liqueur
- Sugar
- Green food coloring
- In a small bowl, combine the sugar and a few drops of green food coloring. Mix to combine until the sugar turns green.
- Take a champagne flute and wet the rim of the glass.
- Dip the rim into the green sugar to line the glass.
- Fill up 3/4 of the glass with champagne.
- Add a shot of Midori Melon Liqueur.
- Serve and Enjoy.
The Irish Mule
- 2 ounces Jameson Whiskey
- 6 ounces ginger beer (or more!)
- juice of half a lime (about 1 ounce)
- lime slices (optional, for garnish)
- mint sprig (optional, for garnish)
- In a copper mug, pour in whiskey and lime juice over ice.
- Next, top the mug with ginger beer.
- Stir to mix.
- Garnish with a slice lime and mint sprig.
Green Beer
- Pilsner Beer
- green food coloring
- Add two to three drops of green food coloring to a pint glass
- Pour the beer into the glass at a 45-degree angle away from you for best results.
- Serve and enjoy!


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How do young South Africans deal with online risks?
- 127 Posts
- Age 34
Four in five children in South Africa have access to a mobile phone, and almost half of them use mobile phones to access the internet. However, the opportunities presented by this access are often over-shadowed by the possibility for harm and online violence, as well as offline danger that result from online engagement.
According to a study released last week Connected Dot Com: Young People's Navigation of Online Risks undertaken by the Centre for Justice and Crime Prevention (CJCP) with support from UNICEF, one in five children have experienced some form of cyberbullying or other violence, or harm, online and one in ten young people have met someone offline they first met online.
The study was conducted as part of a broader study on school violence in South Africa in 2012. Out of the 121 schools that participated in the school violence study, 93 took part in Connected Dot Com: Young People's Navigation of Online Risks. Two focus groups were held at most of the schools and in the end a total of 1680 learners participated in the study. The selection of schools was random, and as a result schools across all socio-economic strata are represented.
"The study is the first of its kind in South Africa," says Mr Patrick Burton, Executive Director of the CJCP. "It explores how children deal with the dangers they encounter online, and the strategies that they develop to mitigate these risks, rather than just focusing on the dangers themselves."
As mobile – and mobile internet – penetration increases, attention is being focused on the vulnerability of children to abuse and exploitation in the online sphere. Children are often unaware of who they can turn to for help. Their parents and teachers, however, are unfamiliar with the technologies at children's disposal and often find themselves in no position to offer advice, guidance or help.
"We hope that this study will be another step towards a better understanding to how we can better equip and protect our children against the risks and dangers that exist online," says Ms Aida Girma, UNICEF South Africa country representative. "The findings show there are a number of risks and harms online, but also that our children are more resilient than we think. With the right information at their disposal they are able to make informed and mature decisions regarding their safety and responsibility as digital citizens."
Download the full study here.
Originally published on the UNICEF South Africa website: http://www.unicef.org/southafrica/media_14003.html


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Our elderly are not only abusing alcohol. Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications in our society are out of control and causing significant medical issues through the combination of the above substances (alcohol and drugs). For example, "laxatives can cause chronic diarrhea, leading to sodium and potassium imbalance and cause heart rhythm irregularities." (www.oasas.state.ny.us/AdMed/FYI/FYIInDepth-Elderly.cfm).
The combination of medications can easily go unnoticed and certainly uncorrected, especially if the elder senior lives alone or has family that either does not notice the effects of the abuse. Also, sometimes we can be afraid to confront the elder.
In referring to individuals who were born between 1946 and 1964 (the leading edge of the baby-boom generation), Frederic Blow, professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Michigan and a Huss Research Chair on Older Adults and Alcohol/Drug Problems at Hazelden's Butler Center for Research said, "These individuals have had more exposure to alcohol and illegal drugs, and there is more acceptance among them about using substances to 'cure' things. We expect to see an increase in drug and alcohol use; and more use means more problems."
As glum as the facts and statistics make it sound, there is hope. Dr. Blow states, "There is less shame and guilt associated with substance abuse now and more acceptance of treatment as a way to make things better."
One problem is the natural change in our bodies as we age. This tends to make elders more susceptible to the affects of alcohol and drug abuse. For example, as we age we become more sensitive to alcohol, and the affects of alcohol and drugs are heightened as we age do to less and less water in our bodies, thus creating a less soluble situation for these substances as they make their way through our systems.
The Center for Substance Abuse Treatment has published a list of signs that may indicate substance abuse in our elderly: • Memory trouble after having a drink or taking medication • Loss of coordination (walking unsteadily, frequent falls, etc.) • Changes in sleeping habits • Unexplained bruises • Being unsure of yourself • Irritability, sadness, depression • Unexplained chronic pain • Changes in eating habits • Wanting to stay alone much of the time • Failing to bathe or keep clean • Having trouble concentrating • Difficulty staying in touch with family or friends • Lack of interest in usual activities
With our elder folks consuming nearly 25% of the prescription medication, it is clear that we have a significant problem that must be addressed immediately. In next week's Weekly Message, we will look at some of the suggestions for how best to identify and reduce this problem of substance abuse in our elderly.
More Hints, Tips & Advice
You were such a comfort to me and my grandmother before her death. Your caregivers are a godsend!
You were such a comfort to me and my grandmother before her death. Your caregivers are a godsend!


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I know it may seem too early to submit something like this, but in all reality there is only three months before Christmas is here once again. So today I will be showing you "how to draw a Christmas star", step by step. Despite what the star may look line in the finished colored picture, this will be a relatively easy star to tackle and recreate. The simple steps will have you drawing a Christmas star in no time at all which means you can begin making your Christmas designs and drawings ahead of time since you will learn the technique to making the most popular star of all. Anyways, I had fun with this task because it was easier than I thought it was going to be when it comes to turning such an iconic star into a step by step drawing lesson. I will be back later with some more tuts for you all to enjoy. For now, try out this lesson and see how well you do. Adios people, and enjoy!
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!


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Check out the latest RPG news | Podcasts | Twitch Streams
From what I heard, it has 6 leveling area on the new continent. The thing that bothers me is the whole thing is supposed to be about war and resources... but they are supposedly making another new neutral city. Makes no fucking sense at all.
I really hope this new continent is as large, if not larger than Burning Crusade's was.
When you can get up and get a snack midfight and come back still alive it's not there.
I'm not sure I buy the "catering to Asian audiences" bit, cause honestly, this can be seen as tremendously stereotypical to that ethnicity.
Quote I really hope this new continent is as large, if not larger than Burning Crusade's was. On the plus side at least their disabling flying mounts until max level. People don't complain about it much, probably because they're just rushing to hit max level, but they really kill the experience.There were two other issues I had with leveling in cata too I hope they fix. One was pacing, I hit max level without even stepping foot in uldum or twilight highlands.
I can see it making some sense since Pandarens apparently are joining the Alliance or Horde on an individual basis, so if there's some big Pandaren city it would be neutral as far as lore is concerned. I do think it'd be a lot more fun if you were allowed to kill people in neutral areas and gain the ire of guards, though, assuming they don't just make guards 10 levels above you and two-shotting you as soon as you engage any unlucky shmuck.
I liked Shatt but Dalaran was boring and I'm not a fan of neutral hubs myself. I killed Arthas, why do I care that some piddly mage doesn't want me to punt a gnome over the side?


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Welcome to the Business Constituency Wiki
This is the workspace of the Commercial and Business Users Constituency (BC) with practical information for BC members.
This space will be updated regularly by the BC Secretariat, Benedetta Rossi, with up to date information regarding news of relevance to the BC.
What is the BC?
The Business Constituency (BC) is the voice of commercial Internet users within ICANN - the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers. ICANN is a global body with responsibility for certain policies that relate to the domain name system (DNS). Domain names are the names consumers and businesses rely upon to find websites for legitimate products and services on the Internet.
Business users rely on a stable and secure Internet and ecommerce experience, one that serves their users and customers on a global basis. Through your participation in ICANN, and in the Business Constituency, your company will make a difference on behalf of business.
The BC represents business of all types - multi-nationals, medium-size companies and small enterprises. One of the Constituency's strengths is its association membership - which extends BC outreach directly to over 50,000* companies and indirectly to over 1.5 million companies worldwide. Over 88% of these are small or medium enterprises (SMEs). For more information on the BC please visit the BC Web Site: www.bizconst.org
News @ the BC:
BC Call Calendar 2013
BC Newsletter - October 2012
BC Factsheet
Please find materials from the BC Meeting in Washington on the 18th of September 2012 here
BC Newsletter - June 2012
Meet the BC Publication - March 2012
BC Newsletter - March 2012
Contents of the BC Wiki:
Face-to-Face Meeting Materials/Information: Here
BC Newsletter June 2012: HereBC Newsletter March 2012
BC Members: Here
BC Executive Committee: Here
CSG BOP WG: Here
BC Conference call information: Here


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Darkness comes as if it's never been dark before.
The first days in Cairo are silent. I know few people and have no appointments. Everything is empty except for the streets, which are filled with vehicles and people from early in the morning until deep into the night. The space this gives me to think, look and feel is something I never get the hang of in my own city. In Amsterdam everything closes after a little while and I always get entangled in a web of appointments and other apparent essentials. But in Cairo this has yet to become habitual. Here darkness comes as if it's never been dark before. The smells, my gestures, everything I do and see and feel is fresh.


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Award acknowledges TSMC for overall performance and positive business impact on XilinxSAN JOSE, Calif., July 30, 2013 — (PRNewswire) — Xilinx, Inc. (NASDAQ: XLNX) today announced that its "Best Supplier Award" was given to TSMC, the world's leading semiconductor foundry, in recognition of TSMC's outstanding performance as a strategic partner and supplier. Xilinx presents this award annually to recognize a key supplier for its outstanding efforts and contributions to the company's success.
"TSMC earned our 2012 Best Supplier Award for collaborating deeply with Xilinx to establish clear technology leadership, product quality, on time delivery, and continuous yield enhancement. This has already led to significant revenue growth and market share advantages at 28nm, a break-out product portfolio consisting of system-optimized FPGAs and the industry's first All Programmable 3D ICs and SoCs," said Raja Petrakian, senior vice president, worldwide operations at Xilinx. "With our recently announced tape-out of the industry's first 20nm UltraScale™ devices and collaboration on our FinFast™ program for the fastest time to market and performance at 16nm, Xilinx and TSMC continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with All Programmable devices."
"Our relationship with Xilinx is an excellent example of what is possible when companies work together to address complex challenges and solve them, smoothing the path for even greater progress in the future," said Rick Cassidy, Vice President, TSMC and President, TSMC North America. "We are honored to be recognized by Xilinx with this award, and look forward to strengthening our bond and collaboration in the years to come."
About Xilinx
Xilinx is the world's leading provider of All Programmable FPGAs, SoCs and 3D ICs. These industry-leading devices are coupled with a next-generation design environment and IP to serve a broad range of customer needs, from programmable logic to programmable systems integration. For more information, visit www.xilinx.com.
Xilinx, the Xilinx logo, Artix, ISE, Kintex, Spartan, Virtex, Zynq, Vivado and other designated brands included herein are trademarks of Xilinx in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Silvia E. Gianelli
SOURCE Xilinx, Inc.
|Xilinx, Inc.
Web: http://www.xilinx.com


text: Through me is the way into woeful repair bills; through me is the way to PBR; through me is the way among the mulleted people. Insanity moved my lofty maker: the divine welder, the supreme junkyard scavenger and the primal wielder of roof spoilers. Before me were a Jetta and a Ranger created, joined together through fortunate folly, and I, the Jettachero, eternal last. Abandon all hope, ye who enter here. (Apologies to Dante Alighieri, and thanks for the tip Al) [Photobucket]


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Tagged: December
Even the Astronomers Are Excited About Venus & Jupiter…
Astrologers are stoked about this Sunday's Venus-Jupiter conjunction in Tropical Capricorn, but Astronomers and Jyotishas alike are equally as eager to see the same conjunction in Sidereal-Sagittarius.
Precession moves the tropical-seasonal zodiac by the vernal equinox, but the slow movement of precession is guilty of slowly shifting this equinox point of 0 degrees Aries at march 20th away from the Sidereal-fixed star zodiac by 1 degree every 72 years. Multiply that out by about 26,000 years and that is how long it would take for the two beginning points on the zodiac to return the same position.
As of now, the two zodiacs are approximately 24 degrees apart – making this venus/jupiter conjunction tropically occur at 20 degrees Capricorn, and Sidereally (astronomically) at 16 degrees Sagittarius.
Both Zodiacs are equally as valid, as astrologers use both tropical and sidereal, but astronomers use the argument that the tropical zodiac is invalid due to it's movement away from the astronomical fixed point. The yearly cycle of the Sun's movement throughout the seasons creating zeniths and nadirs in daylight and 4 very distinguishable seasons along with a traceable analemma.
Regardless of the audience, on the evening of November 30th and December 1st, come outside in the cold with a friend or family member to witness the syzygy of the night sky's two most luminous bodies.


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Rocky Mountain Mattress Company Reviews & TestimonialsJanuary 21st, 2010
Rocky Mountain Mattress:
In September 2009, I did an extensive search for a new queen size mattress for our motor home. The two year old mattress that came in the RV was killing my back. I hated to travel because of the bad sleep I would have. Due to chronic lower back pain, I was prepared to invest in what was supposedly the top of the line memory foam mattress. After trying them out in a local store, I got on line and found Rocky Mountain Mattress. Andrew helped me put together a custom 9″ mattress that would be good for my back, yet fit in the limited 9″ height space available in the motor home. The best part is that it was roughly 1/3 the price of Brand-T, or is that Brand-X?
Two weeks later the mattress arrived. I used it on a business trip the next few nights and slept better than I do at home on our sleep number bed. My wife and I have taken two more trips since the first one with the same results. The only problem I now have is getting her out of bed in the mornings! The matress is so comfortable. The good part is my back doesn't hurt when I wake up in the morning.
This past week, I ordered 4 more mattresses from RMM: 1 custom to replace the sleep number bed, 1 other custom, and two standard beds. I guess you could say we are convinced you have a fine product and at a reasonable price.
Thanks for the prompt handling of our orders.
Charlie Neuenschwander
Austin, TX
THANK YOU FOR THE LATEX TOPPER!!!!! We tried it out and it is really wonderful. It fixed the problems we were having with a supposedly quality mattress, and we are very, very happy. It's nice to know there's an option for success in an industry that is very haphazard in its guidelines and marketing.
Merry Christmas.
Lynne Morrey
Hi RMM,
I received the new 8″ Airstream memory foam mattress and installed it yesterday in my Airstream. It fits perfectly and is at least twice the weight of the old mattress and 100 times more comfortable. I thought it was too small until I cut open the shipping bag when it expanded like a marshmallow.
Thanks again for your help. Now the Airstream has the mattress it should come with from the factory!!!
Louis Bonnet
I received the cover and put it on today. I must say I'm very impressed with the quality of the cover. The fabric feels sturdy but supple and the zipper on 3 sides made putting it on much easier. And the comfort of the latex topper has been superb. I wasn't sure how effective it would be over my old mattress, but I couldn't be more please.
Thank you.
D. Brown
To receive additional information on custom mattresses please complete our custom mattress form http://www.rockymountainmattress.com/blog/custom-mattress-tool or email us at firstname.lastname@example.com
or call 1-866-733-3132.


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Coalition calls for freeze on bridging visas
Coalition immigration spokesman Scott Morrison has called for an immediate freeze on the provision of bridging visas for asylum seekers, after it was revealed a man released into the community on a bridging visa had been charged with indecent assault.
Mr Morrison said that a review was needed into the guidelines for how boat arrivals were released into the community.
He said that such a review must detail a "requirement" to notify police and neighbouring residents about people on bridging visas or community detention in their area and the establishment of "behaviour protocols ... with clear negative sanctions for breaches of such protocols".
Mr Morrison also called on Labor to suspend the further release of boat arrivals into the community on bridging visas and community detention, "in all other than exceptional circumstances", while the review was under way.
He said the freeze should not be lifted until Immigration Minister Brendan O'Connor and his department could give the community a "clear guarantee" that there were safeguards in place.
His comments come in the wake of the arrest of a 21-year-old Sri Lankan asylum seeker, charged with indecently assaulting a student at Macquarie University last week.
An immigration department spokeswoman said the man charged was an asylum seeker on a bridging visa, but did not live at the Macquarie University accommodation.
The victim has told police she was asleep in her room in student accommodation at the university, in Sydney's north west, when a man broke into her room and assaulted her in the early hours of February 21.
A company called Campus Living Villages provides accommodation for asylum seekers at the university, under a contract with the Red Cross's Asylum Seeker Assistance Scheme.
There are 8700 asylum seekers living in the community on bridging visas while their claims for asylum are heard. Based on 2011-12 statistics, most are refugees. In that year, about 90 per cent of boat arrivals were later found to be refugees.
The Greens have described Mr Morrison's attempt to link an alleged indecent assault to refugees living in the community as irresponsible.
"It's clear that indecent assault is unacceptable and I am concerned for the young woman involved," Senator Sarah Hanson-Young said.
"An appropriate response to this incident is to let the legal system deal with it – it is a matter to be left to the courts."
Senator Hanson-Young said that a freeze on visas for refugees to live in the community was not a practical response. She said any review of bridging visas should be seen as a chance to give people back the right to work.
"A lot of the difficulties surrounding the housing of refugees, including the shortage of available accommodation, could be answered by letting these skilled people work," she said.
Speaking after the charges were laid in relation to the Macquarie University assault, former immigration minister Chris Bowen said that Australian law "applies to everybody, including those who are being housed in the community as asylum seekers – and the law should be allowed to take its course. And that's a process that should be respected."
With Bianca Hall, Stephanie Gardiner


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Availability: Out of stock
Let her be the belle of the beach in an adorable retro print like our Little Tomatoes bikini. Bright mango orange meets tomato red in this sunny design with a bandeau top. We finished the matching bottoms with decorative bows for extra charm.
Feel confident about your child spending long days at the pool or on the beach with Waterfeel X-life. This innovative textile dries in a flash and offers the best UV protection and chlorine resistance. Swimming, kayaking or just running around in the sun, she'll do it all in a comfy swimsuit with phenomenal lifespan.
Design + Fit
Our beachwear for girls offers an array of cute solutions for pool parties and beach vacations. She'll appreciate this bikini's stylish print and comfy design. You'll approve of it being fully lined and its no-budge fit.
In order to ensure that your Arena swimsuit provides you with the best possible performance for a long time to come, we recommend you take the following precautions:
- rinse immediately after use, in non-chlorinated water;
- do not leave the wet swimsuit in a bag or other container for a long time;
- do not expose the wet swimsuit in a bag or other container to direct sunlight;
- wash with detergents suitable for delicate clothes;
- air-dry away from heat sources.
Follow the washing instructions given on your product label.
The label provides useful symbols giving information on how to take best care of it.


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Funding Opportunities
VISIT FLORIDA Grants- Accepting Applications Through February 9, 2015
VISIT FLORIDA administers several reimbursement grant programs to assist VISIT FLORIDA Partners with marketing their business and publicizing the tourism advantages to the State of Florida. Awards start on July 1, 2015 and fund activities through June 2016. Application materials and more information can be found on VisitFlorida.org/Grants
Florida Humanities Council Funding Opportunities for Community Organizations
The Florida Humanities Council has announced new deadlines for community organizations interested in designing and implementing a variety of public humanities projects. Complete details and application materials can be found at FloridaHumanities.org.


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Finding psytrance drum loops is a pretty hard feat, finding incredible psytrance beats is near impossible, that's why the Zenhiser team has something to alleviate the problem. 'Pro Psytrance Drum Loops 01' is the next offering from the Zenhiser samples label with a killer sample pack of over 130 pristine, mind boggling psytrance rhythms.
Carved from the stable psytrance block these ridiculous 24 bit psytrance beats and drum loops are of the highest quality ever offered by a samples label, they simply can not be missed. Honestly we can't praise these psy trance beats high enough, they are essentially awesome and pushing the psytrance sample and loop library to a new realm.
It's pretty dam simple, if you're a psytrance producer or remixer just listen to the preview and we're sure these psytrance drum loops will be in your sampler within minutes, they are that good!
All audio files within this Zenhiser pack are 24bit 44.1khz wav
As with all the latest Zenhiser sample packs, audio files display the bpm and key information (where applicable) within the file name
Please note: As with all Zenhiser packs, no samples are ever duplicated in our catalogue so each & every sample pack you purchase is fresh and new


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I've been contemplating where I go to follow up The Bridge......a bit of a problem, really! And I've come up with a concept of a design for a layout that includes the three identifiable bridges that surround the landscape at Saltash, just outside Plymouth.
Here's a 3D concept view of what I'm currently thinking of:
Left to right.....the Coombe viaduct, the Royal Albert bridge (both built by IKB), and the Tamar bridge. Initial idea is to have some form of return loop behind/under the layout surface, and for the road bridge to have moving traffic!
I'd welcome thoughts, etc.......


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Readers who come here looking for my usual blog, www.scecclesia.wordpress.com, will be glad to hear that I have been able to resurrect (most of) my content in a similar Wordpress platform on my own domain, scecclesia.com.
Thanks for the suggestion from several readers that I spend a little bit of money for the sake of security. I had started to transfer all my stuff back to this blogger site, but it was very tedious, and I gave up in the end.
Don't leave any comments on this blog, but go to the new domain. Also also, as the Germans say, because it is entirely new, you will have to re-register as a commentator, which will require me to approve your first comment.
Please be patient and we will be back up and running. You will notice I have lost all my links, so if you are a blogger, please be kind enough to email your link suggestions to me.


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Since 1978, we have been providing aggressive, diligent, and personalized legal representation for our clients throughout the metropolitan New York area. We offer free consultation. Phone calls and emails are responded to 7 days a week.
Address: 479 Merrick Road, Lynbrook, NY 11563
Phone: (516) 561-6645 & (718) 350 2802


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Prevent flashover-related bearing failure in electric motors and generators
Many bearing failures in electric motors and generators are caused by flashover – the passage of electric current through the bearing contact areas, including the housing, outer ring, rolling elements, inner ring and shaft.
While not always easy to detect, the damage caused by flashover can be significant. Eroded or damaged balls, localized melting of raceways, and destruction of grease can all lead to vibration and noise, which in turn, lead to shortened bearing life, unplanned stoppages – and expensive downtime. INSOCOAT bearings feature a special inner-ring and outer-ring coating that prevents flashover damage.
Coating technology offers outstanding protection
INSOCOAT bearings are insulated bearings that can be retrofitted to replace non-insulated bearings. Using plasma spraying technology, the exterior of the mating surface is coated with a thin layer of aluminum oxide. This extremely coherent, thin coating of uniform thickness is further treated to make it virtually impervious. At only 100 microns thick, the higher insulation layer thickness on an INSOCOAT bearing can withstand 1 000 volts.
An INSOCOAT bearing is robust and can be handled like ordinary non-insulated bearings. It is also impervious enough to maintain its electrical resistance in damp conditions and to protect the underlying steel from corrosion. The insulation tolerates heat and is not damaged by lubricants.


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Nov. 14, 2006 – For $5.99 per month, you can turn a cell phone into a surveillance device and track when your target leaves home, where he or she travels and at what speed. You can even detect how much battery power is left on the phone. Marketed as "virtual eyes" on your kids or employees, the service also allows you to construct a virtual "fence" so that you can receive electronic alerts if the phone's carrier crosses into forbidden areas.
Provided by the company AccuTracking, this service is just one of dozens integrating the Global Positioning System (GPS) into everyday life. The system uses satellites to determine the locations of GPS-enabled devices.
From brightly colored cell phones and watches designed to help parents shadow the movements of children, to enhanced mapping websites allowing managers to monitor traveling employees through mobile devices, corporations are cashing in on GPS surveillance technology.
But as these increasingly inexpensive products rush onto the market, public-interest groups are raising privacy concerns. Youth-rights' activists, workers' advocates and domestic-violence experts say public dialogue is needed to illuminate the consequences of this $20 billion-per-year industry.
"The problem is people are making these acquisitions of technology without hearing the tradeoff, hearing the downside, hearing the flipside of the discussion," said Lillie Coney, associate director at the Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC).
"The problem is people are making these acquisitions of technology without hearing the tradeoff, hearing the downside, hearing the flipside of the discussion."
EPIC and other groups say surveillance technology is outpacing policies to reign in possible abuses. "It's imperative that there be more rules established for companies that sell these types of devices, the companies that provide the services," Coney said.
From Public Service to Public Surveillance
The Federal Communications Commission requires nearly all cell phones have GPS technology embedded to help emergency responders pinpoint 9-1-1 callers who may not be able to explain their exact location.
But corporations have quickly found profitable uses for GPS. An Internet search for "GPS tracking" reveals dozens of services promising real-time tracking of vehicles, equipment and people.
Nextel and Sprint market a "Mobile Locator," which lists a user's real-time location either by address or via a web-based map. The service also displays "points of interest" –banks, restaurants, and gas stations, for example – positioned around a user's location.
Verizon is hawking a service called "Chaperone," which notifies a customer via text message when a family member enters or leaves geographically defined "child zones."
Toys 'R' Us has partnered with Wherify Wireless to sell the "Wherifone," described by the company as "destined to be on children's wish lists this year."
In a press statement promoting the device, Wherify promises it will give "on-the-go parents the peace of mind of being able to quickly locate and communicate with their young children, while also controlling who they can call and how much it will cost."
"If we raise kids with no expectation of privacy, then they're going to become adults and voters and people of influence in society with no expectation of privacy."
While acknowledging the benefits of such technology in emergency situations, some groups are concerned about the "extreme methods" taken by adults to monitor young people. Alex Koroknay-Palicz, executive director of the National Youth Rights Association, said that while parents' motivations may be "pure," they are "actually doing more harm than good."
"It affects the trust and relationship between parents and teens," Koroknay-Palicz told The NewStandard. "It sends a very clear message from parents that they don't trust the kids, and they have to monitor them constantly."
Koroknay-Palicz also sees long-term consequences of this monitoring.
"If we raise kids with no expectation of privacy, then they're going to become adults and voters and people of influence in society with no expectation of privacy," he said. "All the expectations of privacy are going to be eroded by the population of adults who grew up with no privacy and don't see the problem with trading away privacy."
Coney of EPIC agreed that parents are buying the "safety and security" sales pitch without evaluating the bigger picture, including who else has access to the tracking data.
"A parent might think this is a means to know where their child is," Coney told TNS, "but it also may be recorded and retained by the person or the entity that provides the service, and they may use it for their own purposes, because there are no laws out there to… prohibit that from happening."
The Boss is Watching
Workers' advocates are also concerned about the increasing use of GPS surveillance in the "mobile" workplaces of truck drivers, couriers and sales people. Previously, tracking technology was fixed in a vehicle or location – places from which employees could leave. But now companies can use GPS-equipped devices to monitor an employee during breaks, lunch hours, and potentially after their work is complete.
Privacy experts say they have no idea how many judges have erroneously granted the government's requests for warrants to track cell phones.
Additionally, many of the millions of workers in transportation-related occupations must acquiesce to GPS surveillance in order to keep their jobs.
"GPS has the ability to really give an employer a fully fleshed-out picture of an employee's private life," said Jeremy Gruber, legal director of the Princeton, New Jersey-based National Workrights Institute. "It's perhaps the greatest threat to privacy that we've seen yet by monitoring."
Several privacy experts interviewed by TNS said there are virtually no laws requiring employers to inform workers that they are being tracked by satellite, or to guarantee workers can turn off GPS technology when they leave work.
Legislation introduced in 2000 would have required employers to disclose when they were electronically monitoring workers. But the bills, introduced by Senator Charles Schumer (D–New York) and Representatives Bob Barr (R–Georgia) and Charles Canady (R–Florida), won no additional co-sponsors and died in committee.
Misuses of Technology
Last February, in an article for the UK-based paper The Guardian titled "How I Stalked My Girlfriend," reporter Ben Goldacre described the ease with which he was able to register his partner's cell phone with a surveillance service. Having access to her phone for just a few minutes allowed him to surreptitiously delete the warning message, "For your own safety, make sure that you know who is locating you." He was able to follow her real-time movements on the web for a small fee.
But Goldacre's experiment had already been put to nefarious use by people in the United States. One of the first reported cases of a stalker using GPS occurred in 2000, when Robert Sullivan, who was later convicted of stalking, planted a device in his wife's car in Colorado to follow her movements.
Similar cases have been reported in Arizona, California, Washington and Wisconsin, in which women suddenly noticed their ex-partner or spouse showing up wherever they were – work, the store, or on a date.
Sandy Bromley, program attorney with the Stalking Resource Center at the National Center for Victims of Crime, said GPS is one of the reasons it is becoming more difficult for people to "go underground" and escape their abusers.
Bromley said the Stalking Resource Center recommends that states expand existing stalking statutes to include language that is inclusive of technology to facilitate prosecution of stalking crimes that use electronic surveillance.
Watching the Watchers
Privacy advocates are also concerned about government access to GPS data and whether it is being obtained legally. Groups cite the example earlier this year of the National Security Agency's warrantless wiretaps as good reason to engage in dialogue about the ever-growing "surveillance society."
"We may have the government knowing all the time whether the cell phone in some instances is on or off [and] where [a person] is located at any one time," said Law Professor John Soma, executive director of the University of Denver-based Privacy Foundation. "That is troubling – very troubling."
Warrantless cell-phone tracking by law enforcement has been scrutinized in the courts. A number of judges have denied the federal government's requests to track cell phones without showing probable cause.
The Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act of 1994 forbids telecommunications companies from providing geographical information about their customers to law enforcement without a warrant.
But privacy experts say they have no idea how many judges have erroneously granted the government's requests for warrants. In August 2005, Magistrate Judge James Orenstein in New York issued one of the first public rulings against a government request for a tracking warrant, but said he had previously granted similar applications "without questioning the legal basis for doing so or suggesting that there might be none.�
In closing his ruling, Orenstein wrote, "Wisdom too often never comes, and so one ought not to reject it merely because it comes late."
Lee Tien, a staff attorney with the privacy-rights group Electronic Frontier Foundation, notes the "structural problem" of court proceedings that are decided through a closed, "ex-parte� process, in which only the government appears before a judge to make its case without a public interest representative.
"It's a very stealthy situation," Tien told TNS. "Protection of privacy often can be very, very hard because those who are threatening it can operate very, very much in the background, and we don't necessarily have any way of knowing what they're doing. And that not only applies to a stalker or to someone in a company, but also to law enforcement."


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ExxonMobil's (NYSE:XOM) luck — and that of several other big players in oil — in Libya might be changing now that dictator Moammar Gadhafi's rule seemingly is at an end.
Many western oil companies have waited for decades to see a payoff from their investments in Libya, which has the world's ninth-largest oil reserves and Africa's largest. Libya nationalized Western oil interests after Gadhafi seized power in 1969. At that time, Libya was producing more crude than Saudi Arabia. The Libyan oil industry was decimated by decades of economic sanctions that were removed a few years ago when Gadhafi renounced terrorism. Billions of dollars have flowed into the country from international oil companies in recent years.
Ending the civil war in Libya would be especially good news for Europe, which imports about 85% of Libya's oil. Some countries, including cash-strapped Italy, Spain and Ireland, are dependent on Libyan oil. Shares of Italian oil producer Eni (NYSE:E), the leading producer in prewar Libya, have risen as expectations grew that the rebels would capture Tripoli and depose Gadhafi. Other firms with big investments in Libya include French oil conglomerate Total SA (NYSE:TOT), Royal Dutch Shell (NYSE:RDS.A), and the U.K.'s BP (NYSE:BP). They all posted gains on Monday.
That European companies have a leg up in Libya hardly is a surprise given that it was illegal to import Libyan oil into the U.S. until a few years ago. For example, ENI executives already have began returning to the North African nation to restart facilities that had been shuttered because of the civil war. Many U.S. companies with Libyan investments are understandably taking a wait-and-see attitude until the situation in Tripoli becomes clearer.
The rebellion in Libya has less immediate impact for the U.S., where Libyan crude accounted for 0.5% of imports during 2010, but it might be good news in the long term. Removing doubts about Libya — which accounts for about 2% of the world's supply — might help push down gasoline prices and boost consumer confidence along with U.S. retail sales, which in July had their biggest gain in four months.
A new regime in Tripoli might bring some needed changes to Libya's oil fields, where foreign companies are required to provide 90% of their output to Libya's state-run oil company. If they can renegotiate these deals on more advantageous terms, that should benefit a plethora of companies, including ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) and its partners Marathon (NYSE:MRO) and Hess (NYSE:HES), which returned to Libya in 2005 after a 19-year absence to their exploration and production interests in the Waha concessions. Prices for these shares and Occidental Petroleum (NYSE:OXY), which also has a big Libya investment, fell Monday, presenting a buying opportunity because any improvements in Libya will benefit them as well.
The road ahead in Libya for foreign companies is not without its challenges. Analysts caution that production might not return to pre-crisis levels until 2013 at the earliest. There are other issues tied to the departing regime in Tripoli that need to be resolved as well.
In June, The Wall Street Journal reported the SEC was investigating Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) — along with several other financial financial firms — for allegedly violating the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, which forbids U.S. companies from bribing foreign officials to win business, in its dealings with Libya's Sovereign Wealth Fund. The SEC also has contacted Exxon, Occidental and ConocoPhillips about their operations in Libya, the WSJ reported.
FCPA cases, however, often can be resolved without going to trial. These companies will try to settle these cases sooner rather than later.
Otherwise, they might miss one of the biggest opportunities for the oil industry in a long time. Though the gains in Libya will not be immediate, they will come. The best way for investors to play this is with a broad array of foreign and domestic companies, or they can choose one: Exxon.
The Irving, Texas, company trades at an earnings multiple of 9.22. Though more expensive than Marathon and ConocoPhillips (which are both above 7), it is worth the premium because of the strength of its brand. The stock pays a dividend with a yield of 2.68% to make it even more enticing.
Exxon's luck in Libya has not been great lately. In 2010, an exploration well it dug with the Libyan state-owned oil company was not commercially successful. Of course, in the second quarter, Exxon's cash flow from operations and asset sales was $14.4 billion — so it can afford to try again in Libya.
Jonathan Berr does not own shares of the securities listed.


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Point Center Financial Inc., the company controlled by Assemblywoman Diane Harkey and her husband Dan, filed for bankruptcy protection from its creditors Tuesday.
The Aliso Viejo company, which sells investments in trust deeds, listed assets of between $10 million and $50 million against liabilities of $50 million to $100 million. It must file detailed schedules in court by March 5.
The move indefinitely delays a trial pitting a group of about 80 investors against Point Center and the Harkeys. The trial was to have begun last week.
The investors, led by retired trial attorney Lloyd Charton, allege that Dan Harkey (left) mismanaged their money, causing $43 million in losses while supporting Diane's political ambitions and the couple's lifestyle.
Diane Harkey, R-Dana Point, is serving her final term in the Assembly. She is a candidate for the state Board of Equalization and has also taken out papers to run for the state Senate.
Jeffrey Benice, Point Center's defense attorney, has said the losses were due to the Great Recession.
Benice blamed the bankruptcy filing on an unrelated lawsuit – a receivership action in San Diego County.
Point Center loaned $13 million to the developers of a 14-story luxury condo near Balboa Park, lost control of the project and then was hit with a $2.8 million judgment by one of the contractors, according to court records.
A judge named a receiver on Feb. 1 to collect the judgment from Point Center. When the receiver attempted to seize investor funds last week, Benice said, Point Center decided it had to declare bankruptcy to protect its investors.
The filing under Chapter 11 of the federal bankruptcy law stops all pending court cases against Point Center and gives the company time to reorganize its finances.
If the receiver in the San Diego case, Richard Kipperman, wishes to pursue Point Center's assets, he will have to seek permission from U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Theodor Albert.
If the investors in the Orange County case want to pursue their case, they too will have to go to Albert. They can either refile their case in bankruptcy court, where it will be heard by the judge alone, without a jury, or they can ask him for permission to return their case to civil court – though Point Center and its creditors probably will object.
Point Center raised close to $500 million from investors between 2003 and 2007 for dozens of real estate projects nationwide. But it racked up big losses during the Great Recession when several of its major investments soured. In addition to the San Diego condo project, the losses included:
• $12.87 million to redevelop a 19th century mill in Norwich, Conn., into a hotel. The developers went bankrupt, and Point Center foreclosed in 2010. The hotel and two related properties were sold at auction in April 2012 for $286,990, according to the Norwich city assessor.
• $10 million to build 110 townhomes on a coastal bluff in Carpinteria, near Santa Barbara. Investors allege the project never won the necessary permits from the city or the Coastal Commission. The project went bankrupt and a senior creditor foreclosed in 2008, according to court records, wiping out Point Center investors.
Contact the writer: 714-796-5030 or email@example.com


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Using RDP support to turn a farm into a nature reserve; contributing to tackling biodiversity loss.
Projects & Practice
Maintaining natural and semi-natural meadows and wetlands to ensure suitable nesting conditions for an endangered bird species: the Aquatic Warbler.
Installing a net to reduce the risk of damage from natural threats such as hail, torrential rains, birds and insects.
Granting a premium to support viticulture on steep slopes and terraced vineyards as a high-quality farming practice
A project that demonstrates how agri-environment support can significantly help the protection of the environment while also increasing the profitability of a farm.
A series of theoretical and practical training courses on work safety for small private forest owners and forest users.
A family farm invested in a biogas plant to produce renewable energy while also purchasing a new tomato harvester to improve the farm's overall income.
Protecting and promoting traditional vegetables can lead to increased incomes for farmers and environmental benefits for society.
An environmental NGO implemented a project to preserve and maintain an old clay pit that provides shelter to a number of rare and endangered species.
A project that supported local municipalities in their campaign to reduce the use of pesticides by their citizens.


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SEATTLE — In a game that had "draw" written all over it, an 89th-minute own-goal by Gonzalo Segares proved to be the deciding score as the Seattle Sounders eked past the Chicago Fire 2-1 on Saturday night at CenturyLink Field.
The two teams traded first-half goals and weren't generating many chances in the second half. But in the waning minutes of regulation, Lamar Neagle gave a leading pass to Zach Scott, who was streaking in on the left side. Scott's centering ball failed to find its intended target, Andy Rose, but it hit off Segares and found the back of the net. Neagle had also scored the Sounders' first goal.
It was a tough pill to swallow for the Fire, who had gone 4-1-2 in their past seven and were closing in on the fifth playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. The Fire had grabbed an early lead on Mike Magee's league-leading 15th goal and were able to preserve it a bit longer after Sean Johnson saved an Osvaldo Alonso penalty.
Magee's 26th minute goal came off a feed from Dilly Duka, as he slotted it past Michael Gspurning. The goal also ended Seattle's season-long 316-minute shutout streak and marked the first goal they had allowed at home since July 28.
That made up for an earlier chance from Chris Rolfe, who got an open look inside the penalty are in the sixth minute that Gspurning was able to save.
The Sounders had a golden opportunity to tie the score just a few minutes later when Bakary Soumare was whistled for a hand ball in the penalty area off a Mauro Rosales corner kick. But Johnson made the correct choice on Alonso's penalty attempt, diving to his right to make the save on the well struck kick. The Sounders had not missed a penalty since 2011. Johnson has now made five penalty saves in his career, but this was his first of 2013.
Seattle finally broke through in the 40th minute on Neagle's seventh goal of the season. Obafemi Martins — making his first appearance since Aug. 10 — was able to control the ball and then split a pair of defenders before switching the field to Rosales, who took a couple dribbles and floated in a cross to the far post. Johnson came off his line to clear it, but couldn't get it past Marc Burch, who then was able to find an open Neagle in front of the goal.
The Sounders (14-8-4) now occupy the No. 2 spot in the Western Conference, two points behind Real Salt Lake with two games still in hand, setting up a top-of-the-table matchup with RSL on Friday. The Fire (10-11-5) remain two points behind the Houston Dynamo for the No. 5 spot in the East. Chicago next head to Canada on Wednesday night to take on Toronto FC.
MLSsoccer.com Men of the Match
|What We Saw
|Lamar Neagle
|Seattle's top performer played with great pace, and put in his club's lone goal.
|Mike Magee
|Despite playing just a half, coming off due to an injury, the Fire striker helped the offense tally its only goal.
|Sean Johnson
|Chicago's 'keeper stopped a PK and made a number of solid plays in the nets. Was a tough-luck loser.


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There's been a lot of talk recently about Carson Kressley's new show "How to Look Good Naked." I haven't written about it because I basically don't give a shit about new television (except Project Runway), and I think Kate's about the same, and SM doesn't even have cable — there are bigger pop culture mavens on the fatosphere who can handle it. I hope it's sincere, I hope there's lots of crying, I hope it gets more viewers than Biggest Loser (it won't), and I'm not gonna watch it. That about sums that up.
What I want to talk about is the not-unexpected backlash, because it beats a tired, familiar, hateful old drum: namely, if you allow people (especially women) to feel good about themselves, they'll never loathe themselves enough to change. It's actually a really vicious mindset, one that I'm familiar with from abusive relationships — "if I don't punish you, how will you learn?" But it's such a popular attitude towards fat that people don't even think twice about what a poisonous (and, for what it's worth, counterproductive) outlook it really is. So counterproductive, in fact, that it ought to be funny, except that it's real people under the lash.
As an illustrative example, let's look at this review, which I found because some laudable commenter made an attempt at education by linking to the BMI Project. The post itself is pretty standard fare — I'm no model myself, but fat people are going to get diseases, and self-esteem makes you complacent. Barely worth snoring about, in the grand scheme of things. But what caught my eye was this comment, in which the author defends his position:
My wife and I were talking about this yesterday and both agreed that it was something I should have put in the original piece — those people that are in the place between "perfect" and "mildly overweight" (which, I think, is the _vast_ majority of Americans) have every right to self-esteem boost. I understand the pressure that's on perfectly healthy women to try and starve themselves into an unnatural "ideal." Anything we can do to make normal women feel, you know, normal, is an admirable pursuit.
That being said, the materials for the first episode say that the women Carson "helps" is 40 pounds over weight. Not obese by any stretch of the imagination, but certainly in area where health problems start showing up.
For one thing, while I'm sure this fellow is an expert and everything, 40 lbs "overweight" is certainly obese according to the BMI. Namecheck it or don't, but you can't have it both ways — either there are clearly-defined categories called "overweight," "obese," and "morbidly obese," each with its own precisely defined level of risk, OR you get to define those categories yourself based on what you think is attractive and acceptable. It can't be a reliable diagnostic tool AND your version of the 1-10 hotness scale.
But of course that's a peripheral point. The real issue is the sentence in bold above, the one stating that normal women "have every right" to self-esteem. Fat women, of course, do not. Fat women do not have a right to self-esteem.
Now, this guy never said "fat women have no right to self-esteem," not in so many words. He might even say that he would NEVER say something like that. But that is, in fact, the logical conclusion of what he's saying above: of course I think normal women who think they're fat have a right not to hate themselves, but real fatties have no such right, and should instead be told over and over again how abnormal and unacceptable they are, or they'll never learn. Self-esteem is all well and good if you're normal, but if you're considered unattractive, you should be reviled for the freak you are.
Fatphobia is so ingrained in our culture that people see nothing wrong with this kind of mindset. After all, it echoes our attitudes towards other pleasant things, like food and sex and clothes — you can have nice things if you're thin and pretty, but if you're deemed unacceptable, all of those treats will just make you worse. Food will make you devour the world, sexuality will make you disgusting and ludicrous, clothes will just encourage you, and self-esteem will make you… well, it will make you think you might not need a complete physical overhaul in order to be worthwhile. And we can't have that.
I mean, fuck that, obviously. Not hating yourself ought to be a basic human right, not one doled out by weight. And only the world's biggest assholes would be willing to tell you to your face that you don't deserve happiness or self-worth if you're fat. Garden-variety assholes, the kind who just didn't think or just didn't think about it that way or really meant well or were only concerned, will find some other way to say it — some way that allows them to deal with the fear and jealousy ("if fat people are allowed to like themselves, what have I gained with all my privation?") and unquestioned assumptions, but without having to face up to the basic cruelty of telling someone they don't deserve to have self-esteem. Fuck that noise: it's still cruelty and it's still bullshit.
Never let anyone talk you out of liking yourself, or tell you that you don't deserve it. People want to keep self-esteem away from you, because once you get it, you've already won — you're that much closer to being immune to the rest of the ignorant, scapegoating shit they can throw at you. Nobody's actually worried that self-acceptance will make you unwilling or unable to change; they're worried it'll make you realize that you don't need to. And frankly, knowing that somebody finds the possibility of my contentment and happiness that damn threatening? Just makes me more inclined to flaunt it.


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Sony Ericsson T715a Pictures
Sony Ericsson T715 is a stylish slider, which doesn't surprise with industry-first features, but still offers all the functions the general user needs. The key aspect of the phone is its ability to organize your day through smart desktop and birthday reminders. The QVGA resolution screen of the new device measures 2.2 inches. The T715 also has a 3.2MP camera with Photo light and comes preloaded with Google Maps and the Access NetFront browser.