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An organ culture system to model early degenerative changes of the intervertebral disc
Arthritis Research & Therapy volume 13, Article number: R171 (2011)
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Back pain, a significant source of morbidity in our society, is related to the degenerative changes of the intervertebral disc. At present, the treatment of disc disease consists of therapies that are aimed at symptomatic relief. This shortcoming stems in large part from our lack of understanding of the biochemical and molecular events that drive the disease process. The goal of this study is to develop a model of early disc degeneration using an organ culture. This approach is based on our previous studies that indicate that organ culture closely models molecular events that occur in vivo in an ex vivo setting.
To mimic a degenerative insult, discs were cultured under low oxygen tension in the presence of TNF-α, IL-1β and serum limiting conditions.
Treatment resulted in compromised cell survival and changes in cellular morphology reminiscent of degeneration. There was strong suppression in the expression of matrix proteins including collagen types 1, 2, 6 and 9, proteoglycans, aggrecan and fibromodulin. Moreover, a strong induction in expression of catabolic matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) 3, 9 and 13 with a concomitant increase in aggrecan degradation was seen. An inductive effect on NGF expression was also noticed. Although similar, nucleus pulposus and annulus fibrosus tissues showed some differences in their response to the treatment.
Results of this study show that perturbations in microenvironmental factors result in anatomical and gene expression change within the intervertebral disc that may ultimately compromise cell function and induce pathological deficits. This system would be a valuable screening tool to investigate interventional strategies aimed at restoring disc cell function.
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is believed to be one of the major underlying causes of spinal pathology. Low back conditions are ubiquitous, accounting for approximately $100 billion in direct health care-related costs in the US in 2008 [1, 2]. Published reports estimate a higher prevalence of degenerative discs as age increases, and nearly 90% of people over 60 years have at least one degenerative disc on a magnetic resonance imaging [3]. Clinical manifestations stemming from IVD degeneration vary based on the grade of degeneration and associated spinal pathology.
IVD degeneration typically occurs through a progressive and stepwise cascade of events which results from the alteration of cellular and extracellular matrix composition of the nucleus pulposus (NP) and annulus fibrosus (AF) [4, 5]. Early changes in human disc degeneration often occur at the cellular level without an appreciable disruption of the native disc architecture. As the degenerative cascade progresses, structural abnormalities appear within the disc, resulting in macroscopic changes and compensatory healing responses. Higher-grade degenerative processes often lead to clinically evident conditions that may require medical or surgical management. Current research attempts at investigating disc degeneration have focused on models thought to represent the late-stage degenerative changes [6–16]. Inevitably, induction of the degenerative cascade in these models requires the mechanical disruption of the AF and creating structural and morphological changes that mimic late degeneration [15–17]. This naturally results in the inability to focus on early cellular and molecular changes. Other models have described the use of supra-physiological mechanical loading of functional spinal units with external apparatus [18]. While this type of approach does not disrupt the annulus, achievement of controlled and consistent degeneration may rely on uniformity of mechanical loading, require longer induction periods, and bring higher costs often associated with in vivo studies.
As an alternative to some of the in vivo models, other studies have described disc organ culture systems to investigate disc degeneration [17, 19–25]. Some of these reports are feasibility studies designed to describe and characterize techniques to maintain a viable disc organ culture [17, 19, 21], whereas other studies use enzymatic digestion of the proteoglycan matrix or needle puncture injury to replicate the cellular and architectural changes that occur during disc degeneration without intrinsic action of proinflammatory and catabolic mediators (as postulated in human degenerative disc disease, or DDD) [25–27]. To the best of our knowledge, our study is the first attempt to report an in vitro model that induces physiological disc degeneration and allows the investigation of early disc degeneration without annulus disruption.
Materials and methods
Disc harvesting and organ culture
Animal experiments were approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee. Wistar rats (250 to 300 g; Charles River Laboratories International, Inc., Wilmington, MA, USA) were euthanized with CO2 and the spinal columns were removed en bloc under aseptic conditions. Lumbar IVDs comprising the vertebral endplates, AF and NP were harvested (six discs per animal). Soft tissues and posterior elements were removed, and discs were rinsed in saline solution before being placed in 48-well culture plates. All experimental specimens were cultured in an hypoxia workstation (Invivo2; Ruskinn Technology Ltd, Pencoed, UK) in 1% O2, 5% CO2, and 93% N2 in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (DMEM) containing 1% fetal bovine serum (FBS), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) 100 ng/mL, interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) 10 ng/mL (R&D Systems, Inc., Minneapolis, MN, USA), 50 μg/mL L-ascorbate, 40 mM NaCl, antibiotics, and antimycotics (Cellgro; Mediatech, Inc., Manassas, VA, USA). Concentration of cytokines was based on the literature [28, 29]. Importantly, slightly higher doses of cytokines were chosen to compensate for the lack of systemic feedback present from immune and neuronal cells during degeneration. Control groups were cultured in DMEM containing 20% FBS, 50 μg/mL L-ascorbate, 40 mM NaCl, and antibiotics. The discs were maintained for 3 and 10 days. The complete medium was replaced every 2 days for all groups.
Assessment of molecular diffusion
To measure the diffusion in the organ-cultured discs, 5 to 10 μg/mL of QuantiLum Firefly luciferase (61 kDa) (Promega Corporation, Madison, WI, USA) and 50 to 100 μg/mL of Renilla luciferase (38 kDa) (Prolume Ltd., Pinetop, AZ, USA) were added to the medium. After 24 hours in culture, discs were immersed in Hank's balanced salt solution supplemented with 40 mM NaCl. An incision was made through the middle of the AF with #15 scalpel blades, and the two halves of the disc were opened. The NP was then scooped out with a Meyhoefer Curette (World Precision Instruments, Sarasota, FL, USA) (Figure 1A). Tissue was harvested, and a Dual-Luciferase Reporter Assay System (Promega Corporation) was used for measurements of Firefly and Renilla luciferase. Quantification was carried out with a luminometer (TD-20/20; Turner Designs, Sunnyvale, CA, USA). All analysis was carried out in triplicate.
Assessment of apoptosis
For in situ identification of apoptotic cells, a TACS 2 TdT-Fluor In Situ Apoptosis Detection Kit was used on histological sections in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer (Trevigen Inc., Gaithersburg, MD, USA). In brief, 8-μm tissue sections from paraffin-embedded discs were deparaffinized in xylene, rehydrated, and pretreated with proteinase K solution for 15 minutes at 37°C. The slides were rinsed twice in deionized water and incubated with 50 μL of labeling reaction mixture for 1 hour at 37°C in a humidified chamber. After washing with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), 50 μL of Strep-Fluor solution was applied, and the slides were incubated for 20 minutes. The slides were washed three times in PBS and mounted under glass coverslips using fluorescence mounting media (Vector Laboratories, Burlingame, CA, USA) and analyzed under a fluorescence microscope using a 495-nm filter (Nikon eclipse TE 2000-U; Nikon, Tokyo, Japan).
Histology and immunohistochemistry
Whole disc units, including the endplates, were fixed in 10% formaldehyde in PBS for routine histological and immunohistochemical evaluation. After fixation, disc units were serially dehydrated in alcohol. Decalcification was accomplished with 12.5% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) (pH 7.4) followed by paraffin embedding. The tissue blocks were sectioned parallel to the endplate (6 to 8 μm in thickness), and sections were deparaffinized in xylene and rehydrated through graded ethanol and stained with Alcian blue, eosin, and hematoxylin. For localizing matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP-3), sections were incubated with rabbit monoclonal MMP-3 antibody (EP1186Y; Abcam, Cambridge, MA, USA) in 2% bovine serum albumin in PBS at a dilution of 1:250 at 4°C overnight. After washing of the sections, the bound primary antibody was incubated with Alexa fluor-488 conjugated anti-rabbit secondary antibody (Invitrogen Corporation, Carlsbad, CA, USA) at a dilution of 1:100 for 1 hour at room temperature. Sections were mounted in mounting media containing DAPI (4',6' diamino-2-phenylindole) and visualized with a fluorescence microscope (Olympus, Tokyo, Japan).
RNA extraction and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction
The discs were collected and the AF was separated from the NP. The tissues were stabilized in RNA later in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer (Ambion, Inc., Austin, TX, USA) and stored at −80°C. Total RNA was extracted with an RNeasy Micro kit in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer (Qiagen Inc., Valencia, CA, USA). The DNA template from the RNA preparation was removed by using the DNase I digestion. cDNAs were made by using 0.5 μg of total RNA, and quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed with SYBR Green PCR Master Mix (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, CA, USA) on an ABI 7900 HT sequence detection system. PCR was initiated at 95°C for 10 minutes (to activate the AmpliTaq polymerase) followed by a 40-cycle amplification phase (95°C for 15 seconds, anneal/extend at 60°C for 60 seconds). Melting curve analysis was performed to ensure specific PCR product while excluding primer dimers. The data were normalized to the endogenous control, 18S rRNA message, in each sample and were represented as a relative change to the control. All of the primers used were synthesized by Integrated DNA Technologies, Inc. (Coralville, IA, USA). Sequences for primers are presented in Table 1.
Western blot
Expression of aggrecan degradation products, MMP-3, MMP-9, and MMP-13 were evaluated by means of Western blot analysis. AF and NP tissue was washed with cold PBS and was extracted with lysis buffer (Cell Signaling Technologies, Danvers, MA, USA) at 4°C for 24 hours. The lysis buffer contains the following: 20 mM Tris-HCl (pH 7.5), 150 mM NaCl, 1 mM Na2EDTA, 1 mM EGTA (ethylene glycol tetraacetic acid), 1% Triton, 2.5 mM sodium pyrophosphate, 1 mM β-glycerophosphate, 1 mM sodium vanadate (Na3VO4), 1 μg/mL leupeptin, 1 mM PMSF (phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride), and 1X complete protease inhibitors (Roche Molecular Biochemicals, Indianapolis, IN, USA). The tissue lysate was centrifuged for 10 minutes at 14,000g to collect the clear tissue extract. Protein concentration in the extract was determined by using a Pierce BCA protein assay kit (Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., Rockford, IL, USA). To detect aggrecan core protein fragments, lysates were treated with chondroitinase ABC (Sigma-Aldrich, St. Louis, MO, USA) 0.1 U/mL in 50 mM Tris-acetate EDTA buffer at 37°C for 1 hour. Protein extracts (10 μg) were centrifuged at 4°C for 2 minutes at 14,000g and resolved on NuPAGE 4-12% Bis-Tris Gels (Invitrogen Corporation). Proteins were transferred onto Immobilon-P Membrane (Millipore Corporation, Billerica, MA, USA). The membrane was blocked with 5% nonfat dry milk in PBS with 0.1% Tween-20 and incubated overnight at 4°C in 3% nonfat dry milk in PBS with 0.1% Tween-20 with appropriate antibody (mouse monoclonal [BC-3] to aggrecan ARGxx, rabbit monoclonal [EP1186Y] to MMP-3, rabbit monoclonal [EP1254] to MMP-9, and rabbit polyclonal to MMP-13; all from Abcam). The binding of the secondary antibody was detected by enhanced chemiluminescence (ECL-Plus; GE Healthcare, Little Chalfont, Buckinghamshire, UK). Results were normalized to the content of tubulin detected with monoclonal antibody beta-tubulin (E7; Developmental Studies Hybridoma Bank at the University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA).
Data analysis
Data were represented as mean ± standard error from three independent experiments. Statistical analysis was performed with Sigma Plot 11.2 statistical software (Systat Software, Inc., San Jose, CA, USA). Student t test or, where appropriate, Mann-Whitney test was used to measure statistical significance (P <0.05).
Characterization of molecular transport in organ culture
To characterize the diffusion of proteins of different molecular-weight proteins in the organ culture disc, we incubated discs with Firefly (61 kDa) and Renilla (38 kDa) luciferase (Figure 1A). After 24 hours of incubation, the NP was dissected and analyzed for the luciferase activity. Both the Firefly and Renilla luciferase show an increase in luminescence in a concentration-dependent manner within the NP (Figure 1B,C).
Assessment of cellular apoptosis and morphological changes
To ensure that our model reflects cellular and histological changes often seen with early disc degeneration, an assessment of cell viability was performed with the TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling) assay. Figure 1D shows that TNF-α and IL-1β treatment for 3 days results in an increase in the number of apoptotic cells (Figure 1D-d) both in the NP and AF in comparison with the untreated control discs (Figure 1D-b). We performed a histological analysis of the organ-cultured discs to assess changes in cellular morphology and tissue organization (Figure 1E). Control untreated discs showed lamellar organization of the AF with well-circumscribed NP containing abundant proteoglycan-rich Alcian blue-stained extracellular matrix. NP cells showed well-defined eosinophilic cytosol with prominent cell nuclei. After 3 days of treatment with TNF-α and IL-1β, the discs demonstrated a notable loss of eosinophilic staining of the cytoplasm of the central NP cells. Although tissue architecture was preserved, a decrease in the Alcian blue staining of the extracellular matrix was noted with signs of cell loss and a concomitant increase in vacuole formation. At 10 days after treatment, additional changes of the cellular architecture were observed; the most obvious was a loss of Alcian blue staining of the extracellular matrix. Additionally, the eosinophilic staining of the NP cytosol was nearly gone and lacunae previously occupied by cells were empty. AF architecture, however, was preserved throughout the 10 days of treatment (Figure 1E, bottom row).
Changes in gene expression
Downregulation of critical matrix genes
Real-time RT-PCR was used to determine the effect of proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β and limited nutrition on the expression of both anabolic and catabolic regulators of disc homeostasis. A significant decrease was seen in collagen type I, collagen type II, and collagen type VI expression by both NP and AF cells after 3 and 10 days of treatment (Figure 2A-C). Interestingly, collagen type IX expression decreased in only the AF at 10 days (Figure 2D). To investigate changes in expression of important proteoglycan matrix components of the tissues, we studied the expression pattern of aggrecan and fibromodulin and found a significant downregulation in both the NP and AF after 3 and 10 days in organ culture (Figure 3A,B). To investigate whether a decrease in aggrecan expression is coupled with an increase in aggrecan breakdown, Western blot analysis of NP and AF tissue lysates was performed. Owing to the lower cellularity of the AF in comparison with the NP tissue, a smaller proportion of cellular protein was observed for AF. Figure 3C shows that, in treated samples, anti-ARGxx antibody detects additional cleaved aggrecan core protein fragments in comparison with untreated controls (arrow).
Upregulation in catabolic gene expression
We performed an analysis to investigate whether treatment with cytokines and nutritional deficiency results in upregulation of genes encoding catabolic enzymes. Figures 4A and 4B show a significant induction in MMP-3 expression in NP and AF tissues at 3 and 10 days after treatment. Expression of MMP-3 after 3 days of treatment was also analyzed by Western blot analysis (Figure 4C). Interestingly, the increase in MMP-3 protein expression is more prominent in the AF tissue in comparison with the NP. Immuoflorescence analysis was used to confirm the expression and localization of MMP-3 in the treated discs. Figure 4D shows a positive staining of MMP-3 in NP and AF cells. Outer AF cells demonstrate enhanced expression of MMP-3 in comparison with inner AF cells. We then examined expression of MMP-9 and MMP-13 in treated discs (Figure 5A,B). Similar to MMP-3, both MMP-9 and MMP-13 show increased mRNA expression in both of the tissues (Figure 5A,B). Western blot analysis was also used to measure MMP-9 and MMP-13 expression in disc tissues. Figure 5C shows a significant induction in MMP-9 in AF cells of the treated disc and a smaller increase in MMP-9 expression in the NP tissue. In contrast to MMP-9 protein, MMP-13 protein shows a prominent increase in NP when compared with the AF tissue (Figure 5D). Overall, these results demonstrated an enhanced expression of catabolic MMPs in the disc after the treatment.
Changes in expression of genes that are associated with pain and inflammation
Since the disc organ culture is an in vitro system, a direct assessment of pain and inflammation without the involvement of neuronal and immunological components is not feasible. However, to get an indirect assessment of whether the degenerative changes in the discal tissues elicit changes in the expression of genes that activate neuronal and immune components resulting in pain and inflammation changes in expression of marker genes such as nerve growth factor (NGF), TNF-α, and IL-1β were measured. Figures 6A and 6B show that 3 days of treatment results in increased NGF expression by the NP and the AF. This increase in expression is sustained in the NP tissue at 10 days, whereas a small decrease is noticed in the AF. Interestingly, whereas IL-1β demonstrated a strong increase in both tissues (Figure 6C), TNF-α exhibits a small decrease in expression after treatment (Figure 6D).
The ubiquitous presence of symptomatic DDD is an increasing clinical problem with few reliable treatments. The etiology of DDD is likely multifactorial and remains elusive. Current surgical treatment options for DDD are based on the end-stage changes of the degenerative disc complex with or without concomitant neural compression or instability or both. Medical (non-surgical) management of DDD (specifically discogenic low back pain) centers around symptom relief with supportive measures, whereas surgical management focuses on ablation and reconstruction of the pathological disc. Currently, no specific cure exists to halt or reverse the pathological processes that result in disc degeneration. Therefore, to understand the degenerative process at the molecular level for devising a biologic solution, a reliable model to investigate the cellular changes that initiate disc degeneration is needed. Such a model will assist in evaluating treatments that may be able to halt or reverse the early degenerative process.
Several animal-based models of DDD have been described in the literature and employ various techniques to induce degeneration. Currently, the most commonly used strategies involve in vivo techniques with mechanical disruption of the AF [6, 9, 12, 15–17, 30], mechanical stress of the functional spine unit [18], or chemical degradation of the NP [8, 31]. Other models capitalize on the natural occurrence of advanced DDD in that species [32]. Regardless, the existing models are geared primarily toward mimicking the advanced degenerative changes resembling grade 4 or 5 human discs on the Pfirrmann scale. Although a few in vitro organ culture models that use injury or chemicals to replicate cellular and molecular changes seen during disc degeneration have been reported [24–26], a true atraumatic model that attempts to characterize the early stages of DDD (Pfirrmann grade 1 to 3) has not been available. As described in this study, an atraumatic in vitro model of disc degeneration uses perturbations in several important microenviromental factors that are known to occur during degenerative cascade. The model allows an analysis of reproducible and quantifiable effects at the cellular level by using gene expression, protein analysis, and histology. Another advantage is that this model offers differential analysis of the AF and the NP.
Our organ culture DDD model allows analysis of cellular changes that occur in degenerative discs prior to injury or disruption of the AF. Using chemical proinflammatory cytokines and conditions that mimic the normal internal disc milieu (hypoxia, hyperosmolarity, and decreased nutrients), our model shows alterations in gene expression, protein expression, and histological disc architecture resembling human degenerative discs in grade 1 or 2. Gene expression analysis shows downregulation of important extracellular matrix components, including collagen types 1, 2, 6, and 9 and fibromodulin. A similar decline is seen in the expression of the major proteoglycan aggrecan, indicating a slowdown of the anabolic or matrix maintenance phase as seen in human DDD [33, 34]. Furthermore, significant induction in expression of MMP-3, -9, and -13, enzymes that are closely associated with disc degeneration in humans, shows promotion of a catabolic state [35–37].
Importantly, Western blot analysis confirmed the presence and upregulation of degradative enzymes (aggrecanase and MMPs), indicating upregulation not only at the mRNA level but also at the protein level. These results strongly support the notion that early phases of disc degeneration are characterized not only by a decrease in synthetic activity of cells but also by a concomitant increase in production of the mediators that promote a catabolic environment within the disc.
The most compelling piece of data that substantiates this model is the histology of the discs at 3 and 10 days after treatment. The progressive loss of the proteoglycan-rich extracellular matrix and changes in cellular morphology and architecture closely resemble DDD in humans. As expected, this phenomenon progressively worsens with treatment duration. Although the disc architecture resembles a grade 3 disc in humans at 10 days after treatment, eosinophilic cytoplasm continues to be seen within the NP, indicating the presence of viable cells. Regardless of treatment duration, significant annular disruption at the structural level was not noted in any of the specimens, indicating a state reminiscent of the early stage of disease in humans. It should be noted that the rat organ culture described here, despite several similarities with the human pathological state, lacks true mechanical loading, although medium osmolarity is raised to mimic loading conditions and to counteract swelling. Therefore, while extrapolating the results from this rat organ culture system to the humans, it would be prudent to consider the inherent differences in tissue size, diffusional distances, and cellular morphology and composition between the species.
This study describes an atraumatic in vitro model to investigate cellular and molecular events associated with IVD degeneration by using a rat disc in organ culture. This model may prove useful to those seeking an atraumatic model to use for investigations of early DDD mechanisms and treatment.
annulus fibrosus
degenerative disc disease
Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium
ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid
fetal bovine serum
- IL-1β:
intervertebral disc
matrix metalloproteinase
nerve growth factor
nucleus pulposus
phosphate-buffered saline
polymerase chain reaction
reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction
- TNF-α:
tumor necrosis factor-alpha.
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This work was supported by a research grant from Biomet, Inc. The authors would like to thank Rhonda Walter for histological analysis.
Additional information
Competing interests
TJA receives royalties from Biomet, Inc. (Parsippany, NJ, USA). The other authors declare that they have no competing interests.
Authors' contributions
DZM carried out the experimental work, analyzed the data, and drafted the manuscript. RKP helped design the studies, secured funding, and co-wrote the manuscript. PJD'A, HBM, ARV, IMS, DGA, and TJA helped design the study and write the final manuscript. MVR designed the study, secured funding, and co-wrote the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
Ravi K Ponnappan, Dessislava Z Markova contributed equally to this work.
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Ponnappan, R.K., Markova, D.Z., Antonio, P.J. et al. An organ culture system to model early degenerative changes of the intervertebral disc. Arthritis Res Ther 13, R171 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1186/ar3494
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/ar3494
- Nucleus Pulposus
- Disc Degeneration
- Annulus Fibrosus
- Nucleus Pulposus Cell
- Annulus Fibrosus Cell


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Historian of literature; editor; son of Elijah Karpeles; born Nov. 11, 1848, at Eiwanowitz, Moravia; studied at the University of Breslau, where he attended also the Jewish theological seminary. He embraced the profession of journalism, and was successively attached to the editorial staffs of "Auf der Höhe," the "Breslauer Nachrichten," the "Breslauer Zeitung," the "Deutsche Union," and Westermann's "Deutsche Monatshefte"; in 1870 he was also coeditor with S. Enoch of the "Jüdische Presse." In 1883 Karpeles settled in Berlin, where in 1890 he became editor of the "Allgemeine Zeitung des Judenthums."
Karpeles stimulated into active life the Jewish literary societies in Germany, but has made himself most widely known through his writings on Heinrich Heine. In addition to several editions of Heine's works (1885, 1887, 1888, 1902) he has published the following monographs: "Heinrich Heine und das Judenthum" (Breslau, 1868); "Heinrich Heine, Biographische Skizzen" (Berlin, 1869); "Heinrich Heine und Seine Zeitgenossen" (ib. 1887); "Heinrich Heine und der Rabbi von Bacharach" (Vienna, 1895); "Heinrich Heine's Autobiographie" (ib. 1898); "Heinrich Heine: aus Seinem Leben und aus Seiner Zeit" (Leipsic, 1899). The following are among his general writings: "Ludwig Börne" (Leipsic, 1870); "Goethein Polen" (ib. 1890); "Allgemeine Gesch. der Weltliteratur" (ib. 1891); "Literarisches Wanderbuch" (Berlin, 1898). He also edited the works of Schiller (Leipsic, 1895), Lenau (ib. 1896), and Eichendorff (ib. 1896). His special contributions to Jewish literature include: "Die Frauen in der Jüdischen Literatur" (Berlin, 1870; 2d ed., ib. n. d.); "Gesch. der Jüdischen Literatur" (ib. 1886); "Die Zionsharfe" (ib. 1889); "Ein Blick in die Jüdische Literatur" (Prague, 1895); "Jewish Literature and Other Essays" (Philadelphia, 1895); "A Sketch of Jewish History" (ib. 1897).
Karpeles also entered the dramatic field, in which he has written: "Deutsches Leben" and "Deutsche Liebe," comedies (1873); "Im Foyer" (1876); and a dramatization of Grabbe's "Don Juan und Faust" (1877).

subset: commoncrawl


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Posted 10 years ago
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Another dig find: 1916 Barber Quarter mounted in a belt clip
The Barber coinage consisted of a dime, quarter, and half dollar designed by United States Bureau of the Mint Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber. They were minted between 1892 and 1916, though no half dollars were struck in the final year of the series.
By the late 1880s, there were increasing calls for the replacement of the Seated Liberty design, used since the 1830s on most denominations of silver coins. In 1891, Mint Director Edward O. Leech, having been authorized by Congress to approve coin redesigns, ordered a competition, seeking a new look for the silver coins. As only the winner would receive a cash prize, invited artists refused to participate and no entry from the general public proved suitable. Leech instructed Barber to prepare new designs for the dime, quarter, and half dollar, and after the chief engraver made changes to secure Leech's endorsement, they were approved by President Benjamin Harrison in November 1891. Striking of the new coins began the following January.


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Midsummer-night's dream. Love's labor's lost. Merchant of Venice. As you like it. All's well that ends well. Taming of the shrew
Hilliard, Gray,, 1836
Pŗgines seleccionades
Altres edicions - Mostra-ho tot
The Dramatic Works of William Shakspeare: Midsummer night's dream. Love's ...
William Shakespeare
Visualitzaciů completa - 1850
The Dramatic Works of William Shakspeare: Midsummer night's dream. Love's ...
William Shakespeare
Visualitzaciů completa - 1850
Frases i termes mťs freqŁents
answer appears Attendants Bass bear better Biron blood Boyet bring comes Cost Count court daughter dear death desire doth Duke Enter Exeunt Exit eyes face fair faith father fear follow fool fortune friends gentle give gone grace hand hast hath head hear heart Heaven hold honor hope I'll Italy Kath keep kind King lady leave live look lord madam marry master means mind mistress Moth nature never night play poor pray present prove ring Rosalind SCENE sense Servant serve speak stand stay sweet tell thank thee thing thou thou art thought tongue Touch true turn unto wife woman young youth
Passatges populars
Pŗgina 20 - Since once I sat upon a promontory, And heard a mermaid, on a dolphin's back, Uttering such dulcet and harmonious breath, That the rude sea grew civil at her song ; And certain stars shot madly from their spheres, To hear the sea-maid's music.
Pŗgina 208 - Hath not a Jew eyes? hath not a Jew hands, organs, dimensions, senses, affections, passions? fed with the same food, hurt with the same weapons, subject to the same diseases, healed by the same means, warmed and cooled by the same winter and summer, as a Christian is? If you prick us, do we not bleed? if you tickle us, do we not laugh? if you poison us, do we not die? and if you wrong us, shall we not revenge?
Pŗgina 183 - Shylock, we would have moneys :' you say so ; You, that did void your rheum upon my beard And foot me as you spurn a stranger cur Over your threshold : moneys is your suit. What should I say to you ? Should I not say, ' Hath a dog money ? is it possible A cur can lend three thousand ducats?
Pŗgina 57 - I had. The eye of man hath not heard, the ear of man hath not seen, man's hand is not able to taste, his tongue to conceive, nor his heart to report, what my dream was.
Pŗgina 165 - Tu-whit, tu-who ! a merry note, While greasy Joan doth keel the pot. When all aloud the wind doth blow, And coughing drowns the parson's saw, And birds sit brooding in the snow, And Marian's nose looks red and raw, When roasted crabs hiss in...
Pŗgina 291 - Made to his mistress' eyebrow. Then a soldier, Full of strange oaths and bearded like the pard, Jealous in honor, sudden and quick in quarrel, Seeking the bubble reputation Even in the cannon's mouth. And then, the justice, In fair round belly with good capon lined, With eyes severe and beard of formal cut, Full of wise saws and modern instances. And so he plays his part. The sixth age shifts Into the lean and...
Pŗgina 275 - Now, my co-mates and brothers in exile, Hath not old custom made this life more sweet Than that of painted pomp? Are not these woods More free from peril than the envious court? Here feel we but the penalty of Adam, — The seasons' difference : as the icy fang And churlish chiding of the winter's wind, Which when it bites and blows upon my body, Even till I shrink with cold, I smile and say, This is no flattery : these are counsellors That feelingly persuade me what I am.
Pŗgina 129 - Scarce show a harvest of their heavy toil : But love, first learned in a lady's eyes, Lives not alone immured in the brain ; But, -with the motion of all elements, Courses as swift as thought in every power, And gives to every power a double power, Above their functions and their offices.


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LCHS Spring Tour - 2013
On Saturday, April 27, 2013, the Lawrence County (SD) Historical Society conducted its Spring Tour. The primary destination was the historic community of Whitewood -- with an intermediate stop at the once-thriving ghost town of Crook City. The following photos are from this tour; click on any photograph to select a different-sized image. In coming days, we hope to add some additional historic photographs.Read More


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Sustainable development has been defined by FAO as "the management and conservation of the natural resource base, and the orientation of technological and institutional change in such a manner as to ensure the attainment and continued satisfaction of human needs for present and future generations. Such sustainable development (in the agriculture, forestry and fisheries sectors) conserves land, water, plant and animal genetic resources, is environmentally non-degrading, technically appropriate, economically viable and socially acceptable". (FAO Council, 1989).
Sustainable development has numerous definitions and its ecological, economic and social principles received universal agreement at the 1992 Earth Summit. One of the summit's major outcomes, Agenda 21, includes a whole chapter (Chapter 14) on sustainable agriculture and rural development. Today, 106 countries have National Sustainable Development Strategies and over 200 voluntary sustainability standards are being implemented by the food and agriculture industry. However, developing and implementing an integrated approach to analyzing different sustainability dimensions as a coherent whole and integrating them in development or business strategies remains a major challenge.
With a view to offer a fair playing field, FAO built on existing efforts and developed a universal framework for Sustainability Assessment of Food and Agriculture systems (SAFA). After 5 years of participatory development (History of SAFA), SAFA has been presented to FAO member countries on 18 October 2013; the SAFA Guidelines, Indicators and Tool and App are freely downloadable from this webpage.
Watch the SAFA video in: English / French / Spanish / Italian
Download the SAFA publications:
SAFA applied: The SAFA framework provides a common language for sustainability that can be adapted to suit different users' needs. The Cacique Guaymallén water management programme in Mendoza, Argentina, in partnership with the FAO Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean, is using SAFA to assess the sustainability of the local hydrological system across each sustainability dimension. During the planning phase of the project, sustainability polygons were created for the current situation, the future situation without the programme, and for each alternative intervention. Comparing the different polygons, it was possible to select the most sustainable alternative in each area of work, using SAFA to provide technical support to decision-making.
Watch the SAFA applied video in: Spanish / English
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Man builds most energy-efficient home he could
Saving money was never on Dennis Kaech's mind when he built his Olympia, Wash., home. But saving energy was.
"I wanted to see how many crazy things you could put in a house," Kaech said on a recent winter day in his light-filled home on the city's west side.
By "crazy things" he means energy producers and heat conservers. Kaech, 69, is a retired high school science teacher. Fun for him is a day spent calculating how many kilowatts he can save with a new heating system.
Kaech has spent $350,000 on the house. But it's not a gold plated palace with luxe finishings. The money is inside the walls, under the floors and on the roof. He wanted to build the most energy-efficient home he possibly could. He appears to have succeeded.
"I'd probably get 50 cents on the dollar," Kaech said of his investment - if he sold it today.
The home features a windmill, solar panels, passive heat storage and enough insulation for a colony on Mars.
Kaech bought the property in 1978 but didn't begin construction until 2008 after tearing down the previous home on the site. In November, he moved in.
The house is open and inviting - mostly. Directly behind a bank of south-facing windows is a formidable rock wall. It's not some horrible blueprint screw-up. Kaech designed the house that way. The rock wall, recycled from the previous house's chimney, is heated by solar rays and by a wood burning stove. In the evening, the wall releases heat back into the house.
They aren't the only heat-holding rocks in the house. A concrete box underneath the living room holds more than four tons of rock. It absorbs excess heat and then releases it as the house cools.
The walls of the wood-framed home are built like a layer cake. Underneath HardiePlank siding is a layer of foam insulation acting as a thermal break, followed by house wrap over subpaneling. Inside the 2-by-6 framing, Kaech installed 4-inch batts of fiberglass insulation and had a 2-inch layer of blown-in foam insulation. Lastly, sheetrock followed.
The walls have a total combined R-value of 31. R-value is a measure of a material's ability to block heat transfer. The higher the R-value the better the insulation is. Building codes require a minimum of R-20 for exterior walls. For his north and west facing walls Kaech used prefabricated insulated panels manufactured by Premier Panels of Fife. He also minimized windows in the north walls—an energy saving move.
The downstairs holds a modest living room, kitchen, bathroom and garage while the upstairs holds his loft bedroom, bathroom and a separate living area. The living space totals 1,400 square feet.
Both levels have 2-inch thick concrete floors. Hidden in them are 0.5-inch wide tubes filled with water that provide radiant heat. A water heater, set at 105 degrees, is dedicated to the system. Ceiling fans push heat back down toward the living spaces.
Complicated enough yet? It's only the beginning. The radiant heat system and domestic water supply are both heated using geothermal technology. It's not the kind of steaming hot geothermal you see at Yellowstone. The system uses plain old Olympia ground heat.
Four horizontal holes were drilled on Kaech's property and filled with tubes containing water. It's a closed loop system that absorbs heat from the ground (which is usually at 50 degrees) and then, using a heat pump, transfers the energy to the radiant heat and domestic hot water systems. Think of it as the opposite of a refrigerator.
"It only raises the tank 5 or 6 degrees per hour," Kaech said. But that's enough to get the hot water tank to 115 degrees. That may be enough for a shower but not to do dishes. Not to worry: he has a backup - or two.
A set of solar panels on the roof runs heated water (up to 200 degrees even in January) to a transfer system (another closed loop) that heats the domestic water system in conjunction with the geothermal. A third and final backup is provided by standard electrical coils.
Those aren't the only solar panels on Kaech's roof. Panels of photovoltaic cells produce 4,680 kilowatt hours of electricity per year.
In the summer Kaech's system creates more electricity than he can use. The excess is sent to the power grid. Puget Sound Energy doesn't pay customers for excess kilowatts but they will credit accounts - making a battery superfluous. In the winter, when short grey days produce less electricity, Kaech can use those banked kilowatts.
A look over Kaech's bills shows the results. In December 2012 PSE delivered 584 kWh while his system produced 81 kWh. But in August Kaech's system produced 663 kWh. (Kaech was not yet living in the house in August and PSE delivered only 99 kWh).
Banked kilowatts - if there are any - are zeroed out in April. But Kaech said he'll never be a net producer. He expects the panels, over the course of a year, to provide half of his electricity needs.
The entire solar system cost Kaech $36,000 for parts and installation. That might seem like a high up-front cost but when one starts to do the math the figure doesn't seem so daunting.
First, the federal government gave Kaech a 30 percent tax credit off the installation costs. Additionally, because the solar system was manufactured in Washington (by Silicon Energy of Marysville), for every kilowatt he produces until 2020 the state (via PSE) pays him 54 cents. In the most recent year-long period he made $2,611.
Solar energy is often thought of as clean energy (compared with emission spewing power plants) but its production is not necessarily so.
"It's green in theory but to build a silicon cell takes a lot of energy," Kaech said.
A windmill that rises above the home was supposed to add to the green electrical system but it has never functioned correctly. It's a sore point for Kaech - one of the home's few failures.
What is green in Kaech's home is his sewer system. The home has two effluent lines. A grey line drains bathroom sinks, tubs, showers and washing machines while a black line drains toilets, kitchen sinks and dishwashers. The grey line feeds into a 1,000 gallon cistern (along with rainwater from gutters) that can be used to water landscaping. The black line goes to the city's sewer system.
While the rest of us sweat over heating bills Kaech reclines in his 75 degree home, heated only by his wood stove and an occasional morning boost from the radiant floor system. He only has one regret.
"I should have built it when I was younger."
(c)2013 The News Tribune (Tacoma, Wash.)
Distributed by MCT Information Services


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Free forum : A private forum to discuss key wealth management planning considerations required to maximize the Iraq Dinar currency investment.
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Though the founders consider ourselves skilled players, our talent comes from tactical considerations. We wanted to create a group where we emphasize tactics over talent. To show that superior organization can trump great individual skill. This
taktkasprimus, though, founders, consider, ourselves, skilled, players, talent, comes, from, tactical, #considerations, wanted, create, group, where, emphasize, tactics, over, show, that, superior, organization


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Reinhardsbrunn (Thuringia, Germany)
Reinhardsbrunn, a village (pop. 800; coordinates: 50.868333, 10.5575 [50° 52′ 6″ N, 10° 33′ 27″ E]) in the government district of Hausbreitenbach, Thuringia, Germany, which now belongs to Friedrichroda, but in the 16th century belonged to the duchy of Gotha. Reinhardsbrunn is of importance in Mennonite history in the fact that here and in the castle nine Anabaptists were imprisoned in January 1530 and cross-examined by Friedrich Myconius, the superintendent of Gotha. Six of them remained steadfast—three recanted—and were put to death on 18 January 1530. Their joyful martyrdom attracted much attention in the electorate of Saxony. No seditious charges could be proved against them; they were executed for their faith. They were Andreas and Katharina Kolb, Christoph Ortlep, Katharina König, Elsa Kuntz, and Barbara Unger. In August 1533 another Anabaptist was held here and examined by Friedrich Myconius, but was released upon recanting.
Hege, Christian and Christian Neff. Mennonitisches Lexikon, 4 vols. Frankfurt & Weierhof: Hege; Karlsruhe: Schneider, 1913-1967: v. III, 455 f.
Wappler, Paul. Die Täuferbewegung in Thüringen von 1526-1584. Jena: Gustav Fisher, 1913: 12 (Where an excerpt is given from the book bv Justus Menius, Der widderteuffer lere vnd geheimnis, aus heiliger Schrift widerlegt; and 135, where the trial is described and the Anabaptist defendants named.)
|Christian Neff
|Date Published
Cite This Article
MLA style
Neff, Christian. "Reinhardsbrunn (Thuringia, Germany)." Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. 1959. Web. 23 Sep 2023. https://gameo.org/index.php?title=Reinhardsbrunn_(Thuringia,_Germany)&oldid=146051.
APA style
Neff, Christian. (1959). Reinhardsbrunn (Thuringia, Germany). Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 23 September 2023, from https://gameo.org/index.php?title=Reinhardsbrunn_(Thuringia,_Germany)&oldid=146051.
Adapted by permission of Herald Press, Harrisonburg, Virginia, from Mennonite Encyclopedia, Vol. 4, p. 279. All rights reserved.
©1996-2023 by the Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. All rights reserved.


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|Click here to see all other works by the same person.
|Dr. Mervin Verbit
|Brooklyn, New York
|Professor of Sociology, Brooklyn College
Mervin F. Verbit is Professor of Sociology at Brooklyn College at the City University of New York and a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania with a doctorate from Columbia University. He is also the Director of the North American Jewish Data Bank at the CUNY Graduate School. Dr. Verbit, who specializes in the sociology of religion and in contemporary Jewry, has been visiting professor at several institutions, among them Bar Ilan University, Hebrew University, Tel Aviv University, and Yeshiva University. Dr. Verbit has served as president or chairman of several organizations linking academicians to the Jewish community and as an active leader in national Jewish affairs.
Heres a list of speeches from this speaker.


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ACLU Files Commutation Petition On Behalf Of Man Serving Unjust Prison Sentence For Non-Violent Crime
Kenneth Lumpkin Victim Of Discriminatory Sentencing Disparity Between Crack And Powder Cocaine
CONTACT: (212) 549-2582 or 2666; email@example.com
NEW YORK – The American Civil Liberties Union and the Los Angeles-based law firm Caldwell Leslie and Proctor, PC today asked President Obama to commute the remaining sentence of Kenneth J. Lumpkin, a father of four serving the 15th year of an unjust 20-year prison sentence for a non-violent offense. Along with a commutation petition, the ACLU today filed with the U.S. Department of Justice's Office of the Pardon Attorney over 30 letters in support of commutation for Lumpkin, including several from staff members at the Taft Correctional Institution in California, the minimum security facility where Lumpkin is currently incarcerated.
"I accept full responsibility for what I did, and it is not an exaggeration to say I regret it every day," Lumpkin said. "But my hope is that you see clearly the man I have become and that I have made a lifetime commitment to change. My 20-year prison sentence is clearly excessive, and if you find it in your heart to commute my sentence there would be no words to express my deepest gratitude."
Lumpkin was convicted in 1996 of a non-violent drug-related offense for playing a minor role in a conspiracy to sell and distribute crack cocaine. Lumpkin's 20-year sentence was mandated by law under unfair and discriminatory U.S. sentencing guidelines that, at the time of his sentencing, punished crack cocaine related offenses 100 times more severely than offenses related to powder cocaine. At the time of his sentencing, the judge in Lumpkin's case lamented what he called the "very, very harsh" nature of the sentence called for by law, saying that his "hands [we]re tied." And after presiding over a recent motion to have Lumpkin's sentence reduced, U.S. District Court Judge David O. Carter praised Lumpkin for his efforts to rehabilitate himself before reluctantly concluding that "the law as it stands does not allow for this Court to reduce Lumpkin's sentence."
Lumpkin is one of thousands of people in this country, a disproportionate number of whom are people of color, who have been given extremely long sentences under the sentencing disparity between crack and powder cocaine. The Fair Sentencing Act passed by Congress last year reduced the disparity from 100-to-1 to 18-to-1 but did not fully eliminate it.
Had Lumpkin's offense involved powder instead of crack cocaine – the same quantity of the same drug in a different form – his mandatory minimum sentence would have been 10 years instead of 20, he would have already served his entire sentence, he would have been there to watch his children graduate from high school and the birth of his first grandchild and he would have been able to help care for his mother, who is recuperating from a stroke she suffered several years ago.
"The case of Kenny Lumpkin exemplifies why it is so urgent that our country re-think mandatory minimum sentences and a one-size-fits-all approach to sentencing," said Scott Michelman, staff attorney with the ACLU Criminal Law Reform Project. "The Fair Sentencing Act was a step in the right direction, but individuals like Kenny have fallen through the cracks, and it is essential that the president use his commutation power to right these historical, but still ongoing, wrongs."
Lumpkin is the latest person to seek commutation as part of a larger project designed by the ACLU called "Dear Mr. President, Yes You Can," which brings together civil rights advocates, legal scholars, law school clinics, pro bono counsel and others to urge President Obama to use his pardon and commutation power in a principled way, consistent with his administration's position that the crack sentencing guidelines have been far too harsh. The project also aims to promote the president's clemency power as a means to correct historical injustices. Last year, the ACLU filed a commutation petition with President Obama on behalf of Hamedah Hasan, a mother and grandmother now serving the 18th year of an unjust 27-year prison sentence for a first time, non-violent crack cocaine conspiracy offense. That petition is still pending after nearly a full year.
Though Lumpkin's excessive punishment as a result of the crack-powder sentencing disparity is not unique, his conduct while incarcerated has demonstrated a level of rehabilitation that officials at his correctional institution consider extraordinary. After being transferred several years ago from a medium security prison to a fenceless minimum security camp several years ago, Lumpkin has taken virtually all of the college courses available to him, teaches two art classes a week to fellow prisoners and leads them in a community mural painting project, is active in his Native American religious group, and is executive chairman of a group called Those Outspoken Against Drugs (TOAD), a select group of prisoners who speak to teenagers at local schools and juvenile halls about taking responsibility for one's own actions, making good choices and the dangers of drugs.
Lumpkin's conduct at the camp has earned the respect and sincere admiration of not only fellow inmates – both long-timers and those recently incarcerated – but also of members of the prison staff, including the Associate Warden, who have all written to declare their support for Mr. Lumpkin's early release.
"Only the president can do what is right for Kenny, his family and friends, all the other prisoners who look up to Kenny as a role model for their own rehabilitation and the correctional officers who point to Kenny as a model prisoner," said Michael V. Schafler of Caldwell Leslie & Proctor, PC. "Granting Kenny's commutation will signal to everyone who has watched Kenny work tirelessly to better himself, including his fellow prisoners, the children in his neighborhood and church, and those with whom he has worked through the TOAD program, that it is never too late to change."
Additional information about the ACLU's work on behalf of Lumpkin and Hasan, including a newly released video documenting Hasan's story, is available online at: www.dearmrpresidentyesyoucan.org
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The American Civil Liberties Union is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties guaranteed to every person in this country by the Constitution and laws of the United States of America.
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The ACLU Campaign for Smart Justice is an unprecedented, multiyear effort to reduce the U.S. jail and prison population by 50% and to challenge racism in the criminal legal system.


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What's New
This update is signed with Apple's latest signing certificate. No new features are included.
App Description
Attention! This version may not be compatible with iPhone 7!
Get ready for the fur to fly in this wild and crazy matching game! A flock of friendly birds is out for revenge after a gang of cats led by a portly feline with a weakness for hamburgers steals their chicks. Match clusters of birds to clear a path to the hatchlings and reclaim what belongs to your finely feathered friends. Along the way, surround pesky cats to remove them from the game board, blow up the walls that stand in your way, and make big matches to earn powerups that can save the day! Just remember to think strategically, as each move you make without creating a match results in more birds hatching, making it that much harder to achieve your goals. With dozens of challenging levels, colorful graphics, and a storyline that will have you squawking with laughter, Claws & Feathers will provide hours matching fun!
• More than 50 puzzle levels
• Battles in 12 eye-popping game zones
• Six types of enemies! Challenge your skills!
• Amusing storyline and funny characters!
App Changes
- June 23, 2016 Initial release


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"Bruce Almighty" - Movie Review
- Holly McClure Movie Reviewer
- 2003 23 May
Genre: Comedy
Rating: PG -13 (for language, sexual content and some crude humor)
Release Date: May 23, 2003
Actors: Jim Carrey, Morgan Freeman, Jennifer Aniston, Philip Baker Hall, Catherine Bell, Lisa Ann Walter, Steven Carell, Nora Dunn, Eddie Jemison, Sally Kirkland
Director: Tom Shadyac
Special Notes: Many are probably wondering, "If Jim Carrey made a movie where he plays God, does that mean he's a Christian or believes in God?" Carrey's answers speak for themselves. "I've gone multi-denominational. I've studied a lot of different things, and basically I don't know what God is but I know that He's at least an energy that rules all and walks the earth, and I really think that there are laws ... and maybe they are within ourselves." Carrey believes most people have moments, as his character does, when they rant and rail at God and ask: "Why, why are you doing this to me?" So he sees nothing wrong with the scene in which Bruce verbally assaults his Maker. "I don't think you can know God unless you're passionate about God. So you're either screaming at Him or you're enraptured at the idea of being around Him and feeling Him in your life."
Plot: Bruce Nolan (Carrey) is a "human interest" television reporter in Buffalo, New York who's discontented with almost everything in his life. Although he's popular with the local folk and is dearly loved by his girlfriend Grace (Aniston), he still is unhappy with the direction his life is taking. At the end of the worst day in his life, Bruce angrily rages against God and lets Him know how disappointed he is in Him. God responds by appearing in human form (Freeman) and listens to the complaints Bruce has against Him. He decides to empower Bruce with His divine powers for a limited time (and only in His immediate vicinity), so that Bruce can have a better understanding and appreciation for just how big God's "job" really is. Soon the pressures of the job force Bruce to take a look at his own life and examine what kind of person he truly is before it's too late.
Good: Shadyac and Carrey have done it again! Shadyac ("Ace Ventura: Pet Detective", "Liar, Liar") has created a thought-provoking comedy that suggests the Almighty has a sense of humor and Carrey definitely has a God-given ability to make people laugh. This is a role made in heaven for Carrey, using his unique comedic physical style of comedy and mixing it with serious issues -- namely a man coming to terms with his own belief (and disbelief) in God. Carrey looks like he had a blast playing this part (who wouldn't) and enjoyed working with the talented cast. Anniston is perfect at playing the jilted girlfriend who has issues with Bruce about marriage and commitment (notice her character's name is Grace). Freeman is excellent in his portrayal of God, presenting Him in a very cool, calm and classy way as only this talented actor can do. Shadyac's decision to cast the black actor in the role of God is not only thought-provoking but typical of the director's sense of humor and style. He knew his choice of making God black would confront many people's assumptions about God and make folks think about the fact that God is not a "color". There are some hilarious scenes with Bruce doing amazing things with God-like powers (walking on water, creating an expensive car, making soup in his bowl part like the Red Sea, looking into a mirror and hearing/seeing himself as Clint Eastwood) and scenes with him making things happen to others around him (Grace wakes up with a bigger chest, a fellow anchorman [Carell] flubs his lines and can't speak, a gang of tough thugs beating up on a man are humiliated by his providential powers, his dog learns how to use the toilet) that create some very funny moments in the story. (By the way; the scene with Carrey and Steve Carell alone is worth the price of a ticket! I can't remember laughing as hard as I did at that one scene; in fact, everyone in the audience laughed so hard you could barely hear the lines -- it's THAT funny!) But there are other scenes that hit a more serious note dealing with Bruce's attitude towards his fellow man and then his own selfishness. Bruce is mad at God and wants to blame God for everything bad that's happening to him in his life (sound familiar?). Slowly Bruce begins to focus on other people and their needs instead of his own selfish wants and desires and that's when we see changes take place and a true repentance turn everything around. There are themes of redemption, forgiveness, a spiritual awakening, a newfound love for mankind, friends and professional peers, and an overall appreciation for just how hard God's job really is. There's a dramatic scene in the end where Bruce cries out to God and asks Him to take back His powers and then offers a sacrifice so that Grace can be happy. It's a touching scene that will no doubt make a lot of people think about their own lives and where they are spiritually. In the end, the overall message of the movie is clearly spiritual and thought-provoking. Bruce Nolan discovers his true nature and that none of us can take the place of God. None of us have the kind of love, patience and forgiveness that only God can provide. And perhaps the most profound message that God delivers to Bruce (and the story ends up proving) is that God wants what's best for all who believe in Him. But we all have choices to make, and God won't force anyone who won't turn to Him first and simply ask.
Bad: This is a Jim Carrey movie that kids will obviously want to see. However, because this PG-13 comedy skews to an adult audience with mature situations and material, this prevents me from suggesting it as a "kid friendly" or "family friendly" movie. And I'll be frank. There are elements in this movie that will probably offend many parents and even some adults without children: crude language, rude behavior, sexually suggestive dialogue and the fact that Grace lives with Bruce before they're married. But think about it … how can you show a character going through a spiritual transformation and changes in his life (and behavior) if you don't show the sinful side of him first? It's those very things that God exposes to Bruce that in the end, Bruce repents for and ends up changing. That's why I'm making the point that even though there are funny scenes and a very humorous side to this story, there is a serious side with a deeper message. So it's more of a movie for mature teens to adults.
Bottom Line: Shadyac takes a closer look at questions people ask about God and mixes it with a touch of irreverent humor only Carrey can deliver. The result is a story people can relate to in a humorous way. I dare say most of us have at least thought about "playing God" at one time or another and that's the appeal to this movie. This will be great fodder for the water cooler at work and an easy opener for discussion. Ask your friends if they were God, what's the first thing they would do. Pursuing the "why" of their answers will be your challenge, but that's what Shadyac hopes will happen. I think it's important to note that Shadyac is a Christian and considers movies his way and opportunity of "witnessing" to people. The underlying message of this movie is intended to make people think. So although you may not approve of all the questionable elements that are in this movie or support the way the story is told, this movie does have the potential to reach people who would never step inside a church, listen to Christian radio or watch Christian television. This is a movie that offers moments of laughter and an entertaining story, but it will leave you thinking about the spiritual elements long after you've left the theater. And that's the beauty of this story. Imagine going to a Jim Carrey movie to get a good laugh and walking away with a life-changing message!


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What is collision insurance?
Collision insurance can help pay for repairs to your vehicle if you hit an object, such as another car, a fence, or a snowbank. Unlike liability coverage, no matter who's at fault collision coverage can help pay for repairs to your vehicle.
Adding collision insurance to your car insurance policy can be a great supplement to liability insurance, but there are other factors to consider to know if collision coverage makes sense for your situation.
Let's take a closer look as you're considering collision among all the car insurance coverages available to you.
What collision insurance covers
Collision insurance covers physical damage to your vehicle if it strikes something or something strikes it, regardless of who's at fault. This may include:
- Damage to your car in an accident you cause
- Damage to your car if you hit an object, such as a fence or pole
- Damage to your car if someone else hits you (the other driver's liability insurance could also pay for this damage)
What collision insurance doesn't cover
Collision insurance doesn't cover any damages to other vehicles, property, or people involved in an accident, and it may not cover accessories or special equipment that you've added to your vehicle. It also doesn't cover damage to your vehicle that results from something other than hitting another car or object.
Here are some examples:
- Hail or other types of storm damage
- Hitting an animal, such as a deer
- Damage to another vehicle
- Damage to private property, such as a mailbox
- Medical bills for anyone involved in the accident
Do I need collision insurance?
Collision claims are one of the most commonly filed auto insurance claims, but collision accidents don't necessarily involve other drivers. Our data shows that more collision accidents involve a stationary object versus another moving vehicle.
While you should carefully review every coverage option when determining your auto insurance policy, collision insurance is important coverage to consider adding.
When determining whether you should purchase collision insurance, consider:
- Vehicle value: Collision insurance doesn't pay out more than the value of your vehicle, so factor in the worth of your car when determining if collision insurance is right for you.
- Accident costs: According to the Insurance Information Institute, collision claims are one of the most expensive types of claims, averaging $3,750—second only to bodily injury claims. The average collision claim costs nearly triple the amount of the average annual car insurance premium in some states, according to Bankrate.
- Location: Depending on where you live, road conditions can vary throughout the year and you may drive in weather conditions that increase your likelihood of a collision. In fact, our data shows that collision accidents occur 6 percent more often during the winter months, on average.
Is collision insurance required by law?
No states legally mandate collision insurance, but if you have a loan on your vehicle, the lender may require you to carry it along with comprehensive insurance to fulfill an insurance requirement. Adding collision insurance can also provide peace of mind—versus having only the minimum legal requirements—by helping to minimize your out-of-pocket costs in case of an accident.
How much collision insurance do I need?
Because collision insurance covers no more than the value of your vehicle at the time of the accident, the collision coverage limit is usually not adjustable. To calculate how much that would be:
Collision insurance deductible
Insurers typically have coverage options with different deductible amounts. If you choose a plan with a lower deductible, your premium—the amount you pay for your policy—will increase. The higher the deductible, the lower your premium.
Additionally, collision insurance has a limit. Since it solely covers damages to your vehicle from an accident, the maximum value of its coverage will be the value of your vehicle, factoring in depreciation. If your vehicle is totaled in an accident, your collision coverage would cover the value of your vehicle minus your deductible.
Collision insurance vs. liability insurance
Collision insurance can help pay for damage to your vehicle, while liability insurance helps cover damage to another person's vehicle if you're at fault in an accident. Liability coverage can also help pay for the other person's medical expenses, legal fees, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Collision insurance is also optional, whereas liability insurance is a legal requirement in most states.
Rental car collision insurance
If you need to rent a car, it's important to make sure that the rental is covered by insurance. If your personal car insurance policy includes collision insurance, it may also cover your rental car. However, it's important to get in touch with your insurance provider to make sure your rental car will be covered under your current policy. If not, you may need to purchase the rental company's insurance coverage.
Collision insurance FAQs
Do I need collision insurance on an older car?
Collision insurance only pays up to the current value of your car, minus your deductible. So, if your car is older and not worth as much, collision insurance might not make sense. If you do add collision coverage to your policy, it's a good idea to make sure your vehicle is worth more than the deductible, otherwise you could end up paying entirely out of pocket to repair or replace your car.
Does a no-fault auto collision claim raise your insurance premium?
Filing a claim can impact your premium, but that doesn't necessarily mean it will. Insurance rates are based on factors such as your age, location, your car, and yes—your driving record. In general, avoiding accidents can help keep your car insurance rates lower.
Is collision insurance required when renting a car in Mexico?
Collision insurance is not legally required when renting a car in Mexico. However, liability insurance—sometimes called third-party insurance—is mandatory. Your U.S. insurance policy likely won't cover your rental car in Mexico, so be sure to contact your insurance provider before you rent.
Does Florida require collision insurance?
No, collision insurance is not legally required in Florida, or in most other states. However, if you lease your car or have a loan on it, the owner or lender may require you to have collision coverage.
I've had three collision claims within six months, now what?
Filing multiple claims—especially in a short period of time—can impact your driving record and your insurance rates. You may even be required to file an SR-22 or FR-44 to prove you meet your state's minimum car insurance requirements. But don't worry, if any action is required, you'll be notified and receive instructions on what to do next. If you have any questions about your coverage, contact your car insurance provider.
Related links:
Now that you know more about collision coverage, find out what the difference is between collision insurance and comprehensive insurance.
Have you made a lot of collision claims? We've still got you covered with high-risk auto insurance.
The general information in this blog is for informational or entertainment purposes only. View our blog disclaimer.


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Metallica, Slash, Dave Navarro + More Honor Ozzy Osbourne at MusiCares Event [Photos]
On Monday night (May 12), metal fans and philanthropists alike packed Los Angeles' Club Nokia for the 10th annual MusiCares MAP Fund benefit concert. Proceeds from the event went toward MusiCares' programs aimed at helping musicians struggling with addiction, and the entire night was filled with success stories from musicians who have overcome their struggles through the work of such programs.
The main honoree of the night was metal legend Ozzy Osbourne, whose struggles with substance abuse are well chronicled. Presenting Ozzy with the Stevie Ray Vaughan award was another recently-sober rocker, Joe Walsh from The Eagles. The night's other honoree was Village studios owner Jeff Greenberg, who received the From the Heart award.
The show kicked off with a set from Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter Beth Hart, who was joined onstage by Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith. Hart performed a soulful version of Ozzy Osbourne's 'Changes,' a song which she says changed her life. Following Hart, blues guitarist Keb' Mo' played a brief set that highlighted both his songwriting and playing skills.
The most unique and unexpected set of the night, however, came from Metallica. While it was apparent that a good deal of the fans were primarily there to see the legendary metal band, few could have predicted the stripped-down acoustic set of covers they performed.
Despite teasing the crowd with a few bars of 'Stairway to Heaven,' the band opened with Rare Earth's 'I Just Want to Celebrate,' which also kicked of a couple of acoustic sets back in 2007. They then played a mournful version of Deep Purple's 'When a Blind Man Cries,' which marked the tune's live debut after appearing on a tribute album two years ago.
Perhaps the most surprising inclusion in Metallica's setlist was the Beatles' 'In My Life,' which was also one of the highlights of the night. Metallica appeared loose and relaxed, and Hetfield's vocals were as strong as ever. Kirk Hammett got his moment to shine on the closing number, an acoustic rendition of Ozzy's 'Diary of a Madman.' Despite not playing any originals, Metallica's set was a once-in-a-lifetime performance that likely will never be duplicated.
The high point of the evening -- at least from an energy standpoint -- was the Ozzman himself. Fronting a band that featured Jane's Addiction axeman Dave Navarro on lead guitar, Ozzy managed to get the entire crowd on their feet for the first time that night. Opening with 'I Don't Know" from the classic 'Blizzard of Ozz' album, Osbourne commanded the crowd to stand up and clap -- even tossing a bucket of water on the front few rows to command their attention.
The band then played 'Suicide Solution' from the same album, which the Prince of Darknes introduced as a song from his 'f---ed up days,' followed by a bone-crushing rendition of Black Sabbath's 'Iron Man.' Perhaps the highlight of the night, though, was Navarro's solo on 'Crazy Train,' where it was apparent he was channeling the late Randy Rhoads. And if that wasn't enough, special guest Slash made an appearance for the closing number, the Sabbath classic 'Paranoid.'
All in all, the MusiCares MAP Fund benefit marked a rare opportunity to see two of the most legendary metal acts of all time -- Metallica and Ozzy -- in an incredibly intimate setting, all while supporting a fantastic cause. As James Hetfield said from stage, "Music does care."
An online auction related to the event has been launched by MusiCares. Fans can bid on items from Ozzy, Metallica, Slash and more at this location. Check out our exclusive photos from both the show and the red carpet below:
Exclusive MusiCares Benefit Photos:


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Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Woolrich Woolen Mills Fire Sale
7 comments:
the htttgap AD fire sale reference has made it eerily clear that we could possibly be living the same life in two different places. meme'in like crazy, b.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousOctober 13, 2010 at 4:26 PM
Bkc Varsity cardigans realease
- AnonymousOctober 13, 2010 at 7:34 PM
After purchasing about $300 worth of things on yoox.com last year and only wearing the two items a couple of times, I'm always hesitant to buy anything from there. They have all the good brands but the sub par products. Its always good to check it out every once in a while though.ReplyDelete
I had a WWM blazer in my checkout, but when I went to enter my info, it sold. Must have been that fucking crazy lesbo, Oprah.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousOctober 13, 2010 at 8:42 PM
Does WWM tend to run true to size, anyone know?ReplyDelete
BTW, it is a USA only sale, Canadian buyers cannot get them.ReplyDelete
Why will Yoox do that?


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Experience Augusta
Close to Augusta Regional Airport and Bush Field Airport
Our Wingate by Wyndham Augusta/Fort Gordon hotel makes travel easy. Whether you are staying for business or leisure, our location near Fort Gordon is right off I-520, offering easy access to downtown businesses and major attractions. Augusta Regional Airport is only 10 minutes away. Early check-in available on request.


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Advanced Search
Dynamic delivery to provide solutions that enable workers to work "anywhere at any time."
Microsoft has began to explain in more detail its "optimized desktop" concept and strategies for "dynamic delivery" that use its application virtualization, virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), and Remote Desktop Services technologies.
The concept of the optimized desktop outlined in a blog post by Ruben Spruijt, a Microsoft MVP (most valuable professional). The company's aim with dynamic delivery is to provide solutions that enable workers to work "anywhere at any time," Spruijt explained. The necessary infrastructure depends on where the applications will be executed and how the applications are delivered.
Spruijt cited the newly released App-V 4.6 Service Pack 1 as a "key component of the Optimized Desktop" because of its delivery speed and easier application support. He also touted MED-V 2.0, also released as part of MDOP 2011, as a way to migrate to Windows 7 yet still run Internet Explorer 6-based Web apps via VDI technology.
Customer Implementations
Microsoft also showcased the work of three customers that have been implementing Microsoft's virtualization technologies. They described the technology use in a roundtable Webinar that is now available on demand. The roundtable was moderated by Michael Silver, vice president and research director at Gartner.
Silver said there are currently about four technologies used to accomplish desktop virtualization. The most mature technology is server-based computing with remote presentation. Second, there is application virtualization, which isolates apps and the operating system. A third scenario is home machine virtualization in which users run two different operating systems on the same hardware. Finally, there's "hosted virtual desktop" technology, Silver said, although Microsoft tends to use the term "VDI" instead.
According to Microsoft's roundtable video, Royal Caribbean Cruises started using Microsoft's MED-V last year to address a problem with Citrix Apps not running properly in Internet Explorer 8. In another case, International IT service provider Login Consultants used Microsoft's App-V to accelerate OS migrations and help with app deployments. Login Consultants used App-V because it was experiencing difficulty in packaging about 70 percent of its apps.
Kraft Foods used Microsoft's virtualization technologies to enable the "consumerization of IT." Employees have a choice of devices to use according to Kraft's bring-your-own-PC concept, and Kraft's IT shop virtualizes various apps to enable anytime, anywhere access on those devices. Kraft uses Citrix XenDesktop in a hosted virtual desktop scenario. Management is accomplished via Microsoft's System Center Configuration Manager solution. Kraft needs to support about 4,000 apps across 75,000 to 80,000 clients around the world.
In addition to the presentations, questions were allowed via text messaging for a few minutes during the roundtable. A transcript of Microsoft's answers can be found here.
Reasons for Virtualization
Microsoft has found that its customers are generally looking to use desktop virtualization for three key business reasons, according to Gavriella Schuster, general manager for Windows product management.
"One is they want to give their employees the flexibility to work anywhere," Schuster said in a phone interview. "The second is they want to help their managers improve compliance by centralizing the control and managing access to confidential information across the organization. The third thing is they want to allow their IT pros to manage physical and virtual assets through a single centralized platform."
Microsoft aims to give its customers choice with its virtualization technologies, according to Schuster. "We want to give customers the flexibility to choose," she said, "whether they are specifically trying to virtualize applications and get a handle on application and lifecycle management, or whether they are trying to solve problems like [Windows] XP compatibility or the security of their data that they may solve through VDI."
Microsoft's Virtualization Model
Microsoft's model for virtualization has three layers, Schuster explained. The first layer allows personalization. "There's a user-state virtualization, and that is all about your data and your personalization. And we have technologies within Windows 7 itself that do folder redirection and roaming user profiles."
The second layer enables application virtualization. "[There is a second layer], which is the application layer, and for that we see application virtualization being the solution," Schuster said. "It can come in two flavors. One is App-V, which is part of MDOP, and the second is Remote Desktop Services' RemoteApp. So you are hosting the application in the datacenter and it is just in the display mode out to the user on their desktop, and that really separates the application from the operating system and prevents application conflicts because it doesn't change the Windows installation, the files or the registry -- it expedites the testing, delivery, and the updating of the application."
The third layer is the OS virtualization layer. "You can do that [OS virtualization] in three different ways," Schuster explained. "You can allow a single PC to run a virtual machine side by side, and that's what we would do through MED-V, and that addresses legacy application compatibility issues, or you could host the desktop in a data center, and you could either do that through VDI where each user has their own personalized virtual machine in a datacenter, or you could do that through Remote Desktop Services, which used to be called Terminal Services, where you have multiple users accessing sessions, but they are not personalized sessions."
Virtualization and Licensing
Licensing is always a complicated minefield to negotiate, but accessing Microsoft's virtualization technologies comes about through two licensing options. Organizations can either gain virtualization rights through Software Assurance (SA) or they can purchase Windows Virtual Desktop Access (VDA) licensing.
"Many of our customers are in Enterprise Agreements with Microsoft, and that gives them Windows SA," Schuster explained. "For those customers, they already get the ability to use all of these types of virtualization, as well as to access the desktop in the data center. For customers who don't have SA, or for customers who are just using thin clients and don't have an underlying Windows license, those are the customers who would purchase the VDA subscription."
The VDA license gives the customer the rights to Windows 7 Enterprise edition, and it gives them the rights to run Windows ThinPC (WinTPC) on the endpoint device. WinTPC is the Windows 7-based successor to Windows Fundamentals for Legacy PCs, which was based on Windows XP. WinTPC is a locked-down version of Windows 7 that can be used to support legacy hardware and thin clients via VDI technology. Microsoft is planning to release a technology preview of WinTPC by the end of this month, according to a blog post by Schuster.
VDA licensees also get the option to purchase MDOP use rights, but it's an extra cost, Schuster explained. "[VDA] also gives the ability to purchase MDOP, so MDOP, in both cases, is an additional subscription license, but it's very low priced. It's traditionally around $7 to $10 per PC per year for all of the features in MDOP, and that's where [customers] would get App-V and MED-V specifically for virtualization."
Organizations can use Microsoft's RemoteFX technology, enabled through Windows Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1, to enable rich applications on thin clients, but they may need to purchase new thin clients to make that happen. Windows ThinPC offers an option to reuse existing client devices for remote access in a VDI scenario, which can save on hardware costs, according to Schuster.
"One of the challenges of organizations thinking of moving to a VDI environment -- where they host a desktop in a data center and they want to display it down to end user's device -- [is that] the most cost-effective way to doing that long term is through a thin client," Schuster said. "In order to get started, they'd have buy thin clients for each of their users and then invest in the hardware in a data center to create another virtual machine for that end user. That's expensive for them and there's a lot of overhead, so with Windows ThinPC they can reuse the existing hardware that they have."
She added that the older hardware can be turned into a thin PC and then locked down. Users won't save documents onto the local hardware; instead, they'd use the virtual machine desktop that's located in the datacenter for saving files.
For more information about the VDA license, see Microsoft's document, "Licensing Windows for VDI Environments" (PDF download).