text:
I do black friday, just started last year. Nothing that gets me excited in the ads yet this year.
***** Congrats to our winners! *****
price adjustments (Comment #96) Submitted by Karen on November 18, 2009 - 14:54. I will be doing most of my shopping this weekend, before the crowds are too big and the selection is good. Then on Black Friday and the few days afterward (preferably late in the evening when it's less crowded), I'll go back to the stores with my receipts and get price adjustments. This way I have what I want to buy in hand, and the price adjustments are just added bonuses. I don't feel like I have to go out on Black Friday, but then I'm motivated to do so.
ktoth04I do black friday, just started last year. Nothing that gets me excited in the ads yet this year.
You've seen the hype, read about it in the news, and have even heard our thoughts on the matter: Black Friday is a buzzworthy topic, but is it really a great deal? With new developments happening as a result of last year's Walmart tragedy, it may not even be the same shopping event that you remember. (Reports from Walmart authorities reveal that stores will be open 24 hours prior to the shopping event, limited-stock merchandise will be offered at staffed "hubs" throughout the store, and order will be stressed above anything else.) But is it even worth going out into the madness?
I've done Black Friday in the past with amazing results, and with so much information being leaked online and ahead of schedule, you can plan, budget, and prepare well before that turkey ever hits the table. But will talks of $3 appliances at Target and half-priced robotic kittens be enough to push you out into the wee hours of the morning for deep discounts? Or will you sit it out, shop from home, or (heaven-forbid) regift with what you already have on hand?
I want to hear your thoughts on the all things Black Friday -- if you have any. Share them here in our comment thread or on Twitter, and you'll be entered to win one of two $10 Amazon giveaways. It won't guarantee your place in line for the uber-cheap netbooks, but it may help offset your cost of getting little Susie her dream gift. Dozens of readers have already won. You could be next!
Win a $10 Amazon Gift Certificate
We're doing two giveaways — one for random comments, and another one for a random tweets.
How to Enter:
Post your answer in the comments below, or
Tweet your answer. Include both "@wisebread" and "#WBAsk" in your tweet so we'll see it and count it.
If you're inspired to write a whole blog post, please link to it in the comments or tweet it.
At the end of the drawing, we'll update this post to include (and link to) all of your helpful responses.
Giveaway Rules:
Contest ends Friday, November 20th at 11:59 pm CST. Winners will be announced after November 20th on the original post and via Twitter. Winners will also be contacted via email and Twitter Direct Message.
You can enter both drawings -- once by leaving a comment and once by tweeting.
Only tweets that contain both "@wisebread" and "#WBAsk" will be entered. (Otherwise, we won't see it.)
Good luck!
Disclaimer: The links and mentions on this site may be affiliate links. But they do not affect the actual opinions and recommendations of the authors.
Wise Bread is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.
I do black friday, just started last year. Nothing that gets me excited in the ads yet this year.
It's not really an issue when you live IN a city. The Black Friday craziness is mostly in the suburbs. I might hit up Macys and a few other stores, but the urban setting isn't the same as the mass retailers and malls in the suburbs. That being said, we probably don't get as good deals, either.
If something I wanted to purchase for myself or someone else that fits in my budget is on sale for a great price, I'll get it. But I won't go into a store where I know the shopping would be more emotional than anything and could potentially create a problem for me financially.
I avoid it at all costs. For most of the items that I want, I can find them at comparable prices throughout the year (also... Cyber Monday is another reason). However, if there is something that I see that I really like at a great price, then I get my friend (who organizes a group) to get the word out and buy it for me, then I will just pay them back.
I think Black Friday is just another ploy to get people to buy more 'stuff', and stuff they don't need. I often hear "well I got a great deal", but even if you 'save' $40 on a $50 item, you are still out the $40. The question is... Do you really need a brand new ______?
i do shop black friday, but i don't go out. i stick to online shopping only. i hit all the websites at midnight, when most of them start their BF sales. if nothing on my shopping list is on sale, i don't buy that day.
I don't usually do Black Friday. I can't deal with the crowds. But I might do it this year. I need a new computer!
I do Black Friday if I am looking to buy certain things that go on mega-sale on Black Friday. For instance, I'm "doing" it this year because I need a large external hard drive and I know from the internets that those will be much cheaper then than they are now. Last year, I needed a good winter coat and went for the same reason.
If you're going out just to see what's around (I've done this in past years), it's a huge waste of money, time and energy. Much better to spend the morning sleeping off the carb hangover from the day before.
Black Fridays are usually more disappointing to me due to the crowds and stores running out of stock. But once in a while I strike gold and that's why I keep participating. This year I'll try to do more online buying.
after working in a major mall for a number of years, I don't go anywhere near one on Black Friday. Too many crazy people not even realizing how rude and pushy they're being.
I hate crowds and have no desire to struggle with sale mad shoppers. I prefer to find something fun to do with my family that is not about buying.
but mostly for entertainment purposes! My sister and I sneak out in the wee hours of the morning for a warm cup of Starbucks and then giggle in our car watching endless people stand in line wrapped around department stores fighting for carts. We do snag a couple good buys throughout the morning but nothing is ever worth the long lines!!
I've done Black Friday for years. Not as crazy as my mom was, but I also only buy things that are a great deal, and were already on my list.
I used to work retail and was on the clock for several Black Fridays. That's part of the reason I do not shop on Black Friday. Also, I never really see any deals so awesome that it's worth getting up early (or staying up from the night before), waiting in line, fighting the crowds, etc. I prefer to Christmas shop on random weeknights about an hour or two before closing when there are a LOT fewer people in the stores. I also do a fair amount of my Christmas shopping online (and I don't usually do that on Black Friday either). After Thanksgiving with my relatives and my in-laws I just make the next day the most relaxing it can possibly be!
I usually go on a long bike ride or hike; this year I think I'll be snowboarding. The stress of the crowds and trying to find some amazing deal just isn't worth it.
I do black friday normally in the afternoon. I end up going out sometime during the day, but not necessarily first thing in the morning, and typically not to get stuff for presents, but instead for gadgets for myself.
When did this start, anyway? No! I detest crowds & don't find it at all fun & hung around malls during the holiday season only because I was WORKING there!
I have been shopping black friday for the last 4 years. I try to do most of my shopping online beginning on thanksgiving day at 12 am.
But, I absolutely will NOT go NEAR best buy. I have boycotted them for 2 years due to Black Friday shenannigans in their stores 3 years ago.
We will do it if there is something that we need. We check the leaked BF ads ahead of time, compare to online prices, and if its still a worthwhile deal with significant savings we give it a shot.
I do black Fridays, if the prices are right. I normally find the stores that do giveaways. In the past, some stores would give away $10 giftcards, Id go with my family and get something decent (4 people X $10 = something we can all use that's decent)(surprised stores would honor it!)
Last year I did not go since there were no real good sales that I wanted to spend money on.
I noticed too that some stores did giveaways, like Christmas ornaments or free samples. If you can find a decent mall w/ a few stores, it works better then having all your eggs in 1 basket.
I agree w/ Dory.. you can only put up with people for so long, but my Black Friday is for stuff for me, and not for Christmas shopping anyway, so there's no stress about needing to get gifts for people.
The one thing that might have tempted me - because I tried to get it last year and it was sold out everywhere - I bought it this week. The rest of my shopping will be little things. I'm looking forward to getting the shopping done early and just enjoying the season and the 3 F's (food family & friends).
I absolutely do black friday. But only with a plan and a strict budget. I have a list ahead of time for what I plan to buy, and for whom. I only get those items, no impulse purchases allowed, no matter how great. And I try to do as much of it online as possible.
I tend not to do black friday in big mall-like stores because I don't like to shop with the crowds and there's rarely anything worth it to get up and go in at 3, 4, or 5am. I have done it in the past however, and there's a possibility I'll do it this year, b/c Target has a couple things for great prices that I would like. But, I won't be there at 4am, I'll likely be there at 6-8pm instead. And I know exactly what I want, and don't plan on buying anything else.
The only other place I love going to that day is a local bookstore that has a "customer appreciation" sale that day of 55% off - that is worth getting up early and heading over for their 9am start.
I tend to honor Buy Nothing Day. There are other ways to find good deals on good presents that don't involve fighting people at 2am in the morning.
It depends.... this year, I am doing one thing on Black Friday because it's an amazing deal on something I was willing to pay full price for anyway. I'll get out at 3am for that. Then, directly afterwards, I'm going home and going back to bed.
Personally, the lure of the "greatest deal of all" does not pull me to venture out on the day that capitalizes on our guilty need to conform in our materialistic society for a season meant to open our hearts to the wonder of our existence. I am not saying I do not feel the desire to purchase the nicest gift I can afford for each and all my loved family and friends, but I just cannot bear the huge crowds of shoving people to assist in my heartfelt gift decisions. Planning to think about my purchases more clearly and not give in to impulse purchasing, thus I will most likely purchase online and from my local primitive gift and craft shops. I find very reasonable consigned items for most of my loved ones, that seem to be very appreciated.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
I avoid retail stores whenever possible, especially on Black Friday. I will shop online however. That Amazon gift card is calling my name!
of course I do black friday! Its a shoppers paradise! Although my credit cards dont like it very much...lol
I consider Black Friday a day of sales made easy for "everyone else". I cannot stand crowds. I shop year round for deals online and in stores.
I will go if there is something that is a really good deal. This year I may give it a shot just for fun.
I find it very ironic that Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving. First you give thanks for all that you have, and the next day you need to run out and get more!
No, I refuse to do Black Friday.
We are usually visiting family so I do not go to black Friday sales but I did once and it was the last time. I went to a Walmart sale and the line was unbelievably long and all of the items that were listed on sale were gone within the first few minutes. I left the store without buying anything but I had to return later that night and there were no lines. The best thing is that they had two of the three items that they said that they were out of earlier.
I prefer to avoid the crowds, but if there is something specific I'll brave them to check it out.
Saving over the year is the best deal you can get. Skip Black Friday and spend it with your family instead.
I'm interested in online black friday sales, other than that, nothing is really worth the insane parking & crazed shoppers!
I never have participated - I usually do thrifted, handmade, home baked or used books for gifts - but if I had a really compelling reason (ie something on sale I was planning to buy anyway) I might. If the sale is still worth it after counting the 90 minute drive from my very rural Montana home to the nearest shopping area.
never. i dont need any electronics, and if i did, i would order them on the computer.
i wont go on principle.
I hate Black Friday - the crowds, the rudeness, the violence. All for a $10 DVD player they probably don't even need? No thanks.
I use to go out and get some killer deals for myself and my sister. Since me and her are not on good terms this year, my Black Friday is canceled. But I might just make a run to the craft stores like Hobby Lobby and Michaels for some deals. Not the mall, Target, or Best Buy...not this year.
I've never done black Friday, but would do it for the experience as much as the deals. Getting up at 2 a.m. with your bffs sounds...kinda fun.
I've never shopped in store on Black Friday myself, but I do check out the Thanksgiving sales online. Instead, I'll be working at my retail job on Black Friday for the second year in a row. (Have to be into work at five! The crowd sometimes begins gathering before that even.)
No thank you.
There's no amount of sales that can make me go into that mess. It's disgusting.
Buy early, or buy online. There's no reason to deal with black Friday anymore!
I started doing black friday shopping a few years ago for my kids. I find it a great time for me to get out of the house, BY MYSELF, to shop. True, sometimes I end up getting things I could probably do without, but I also find some awesome deals for family presents. I also stock up on extra birthday presents for all those birthday parties throughout the school year.
I think the trick is to make a list and try to stick to it as much as possible. Think about your purchase before hand. Would you still buy this if it was not on sale? If not, then you probably can do without it. I always stay away from those 3, 5 and $10 DVD's. If I'm not searching for a specific DVD, I don't even look at them. Three dollars here, five dollars there adds up quickly!
Set a budget and try, try, try to stick to it!
The bottom line is... Black Friday is for die-hard shoppers. If you don't like to shop, it's not for you. But if you do, there are great deals to be had if you plan your trip beforehand.
I absolutely avoid it - I'm pretty terrified of the stampeders, and of trying to make it through the crazy traffic. I do most of my holiday shopping online - often I can find better deals, and I can do it in my pj's at one in the morning if I want :)
While this sounds counter-intuitive to frugal ways.. I am planning to go out and shop-shop-shop on Black Friday!
As a college student living in my first apartment, I've bought a lot of furnishings.Through the past 3 months of school, I've been making a list of things I still really need, from an ironing board to freshen up interviewing clothes to a new pair of gloves. Oven mitts are a prime example of something I didn't think to bring but really need -- I don't know how many pans and pizzas I've nearly dropped while trying to use a dish towel!
There are other items that I've planned to buy, too, such as an external hard drive to back-up my school and business files which just makes sense to buy on sale rather than during the back-to-school hype. (From my unscientific analysis, the Black Friday prices are better brands at cheaper prices than I've seen at techie deal sites.)
Even if some of the smaller items aren't on super-hot sale, I'm planning to utilize the X off a $XXX purchase coupons especially to purchase things that rarely go on sale and don't have manufacturers coupons. I'm also going home for Thanksgiving, which makes getting to/from any store so much easier. Were I not planning to shop on Black Friday, I'd probably end up making a mass-purchase at a big retailer anyway, making Black Friday more of an opportunity than a gimmick for me.
Finally, since my sleep schedule is um, shall we say, more flexible than that of my parents, my fiance and I are planning to try to hit the door-buster deals at some of the big-box retailers to get items like a DVR and a LCD monitor that my parents were already planning to give as gifts.
All-in-All, November 27 itself will probably put quite a bit of wear-and-tear on my Visa, although I've been saving gift cards for the occasion to maximize their potential buying-power. I have been planning purchases for the past 6 months so I will be coming out ahead -- and able to pay the balance in full!
I'm fascinated and frightened all at the same time. Coming from Canada, we didn't have Black Friday but did have Boxing Day on Dec 26, same thing but later in the year and much more tame.
If someone wants to wait in line for days just to buy something because it's on sale, more power to 'em but I'll surf the sales from home and watch the madness on the evening news.
We no longer buy gifts in the family, everything must be homemade, recycled, event (like a game, or horseback riding or ice skating) or thrift store. :)
Last year, convinced by a cousin to try it, we went. Y'know, it was pretty fun. People were in a good mood, and we did get some great deals. And then, lunch and a nap. I could be convinced to go again if there are some great deals on something on someone's list . . . but otherwise, probably not. I'm not crazy about crowds.
Great post, Linsey!
No way in hell! I used to work retail and this is the most hated day of the year. Every idiot is out with their attitude in full force for this day. Add to that the fact that this is a big game of "lets get the sheep to spend money" and I will never go close to a store on this day.
The smart folks but things during the year when they are on sale and don't have to deal with all this holiday season hype.
Never. I stay as far away as I can from anything retail that day. I mean - come on - waste my day in all that craziness and stress to save a few bucks on stuff I probably shouldn't be buying anyhow?
Even before the tragic events were reported, just the thought of being in a crazy crowd is enough to keep me home. The one thing I do enjoy is looking at the Black Friday ads, though. I've usually already bought all my presents, but it's fun to look for new ideas.
If there's something already on my CHristmas list on sale, I'll do what I can to get it. I usualy have most of my Christmas shopping done by Black Friday, though.
Yes I will! TrueCar.com predicts that Black Friday will best day of the year to buy a car. They also released a list of the best Deals for Black Friday. They expect some cars to be discounted up to 27% off sticker. That's unreal!
We continue our family celebration and celebrate the day by putting up our Christmas tree, relaxing, and doing a puzzle. I think this "Black Friday" hype is pretty sad. So is the "Buy Nothing Day" (I followed the link in a comment above, as I had never heard of it). It is the day after Thanksgiving. Celebrate with gratitude all that you have been blessed with and stop feeding the greedy accumulation monster that seems to be gobbling up all of our common sense.
I'm not a huge fan of Black Friday. I've shopped a couple of times on that day, but I didn't feel like I walked away with a huge number of bargains. On the other hand I do keep an eye out for deals on Cyber Monday. The last few years I found quite a number of good deals from the comfort of my home, while shopping in my pajamas.
Every people is waiting for Black Friday 2009 and this year,people will crazy for shopping and make more shopping on this year.
Most years my husband and I drove up to get in some awesome skiing over Thanksgiving Weekend at Mammoth Mountain with our sons and friends. If I'm going to get up early, it sure won't be for shopping! This year, we have family visiting us for Thanksgiving so we'll be doing a big brunch and then heading out for some ice skating or a visit to Crater Lake if the snow cooperates! We just don't do Black Friday.
We used to do Black Friday -- until the FeeBayers started hiring college kids to sit and hold their spots. We'd get there at 12:01, thinking we were number 50 or so, only to have 300 people show up at 7:50 to claim their held "spots". It so hasn't been worth it. It will be an Amazon.com Christmas for us; no crowds, no hassles.
The only time I'll have anything to do with Black Friday is if there is one specific item I'm looking for. Last year I got a TV on Black Friday from Sear's. I went straight there, picked it up, and went straight home. That was my only trip that day!
This year, I'm looking for a specific networking router. So far, I can get better deals at discount sites online for it than any of the "leaked" Black Friday ads, so it looks like a nice Friday in front of a warm cup of hot chocolate for me!!!
You couldn't pay me a million dollars to do Black Friday. I will do all of my shopping from the privacy of my own home, and probably find better deals than anyone out there in the madness.
Plus I will not have to stand in one line, deal with one other angry customer, or worst of all, run the risk of being trampled at Walmart.
Happy Balck Friday to all!
I've done some Black Friday shopping in the past, but most of the deals just aren't on what I'm looking for...with one exception. The used bookstore near me does 20% off everything from opening (7am) through 9am with free bags and $5 gift cards (and one $100 gift card) for the first 100 people through the door. Last year I got there about 6:45 and got one of the bags as well as some good deals on books. I'm planning on doing that again this year.
Then I'll go home, take a nap and get ready to have friends over for my annual "I need to get away from my family" games night.
I live in the suburbs, right in the middle of all the mega malls. I don't leave my driveway on Black Friday! Thanksgiving evening, I have to take an elderly relative home. On the way, I pass a Best Buy. People are already lined up at 9 P.M.! I have no desire to participate. But...do I want a netbook...yep! I'll pay a few more dollars the following week. And I won't catch a cold doing so. Happy Holidays!
I think it´s better to trade online... The traffic is horrible, the people all together fighting to get the same thing... NO thanks. No amount of money buys your piece of mind... Not to mention, it is better to stay away from temptation.
I don't do Black Friday. I've gone out a few times for specific items, and it was always stressful and insane. I now participate in Buy Nothing Day instead.
I never did shop Black Friday in the past because of the crowds. Now the internet and early release of Black Friday deals I am comparing my list to the sales. Unless I find a GREAT deal on the gift list, I don't plan on going out. I'd rather be putting up the Christmas decorations with the family.
After preparing a giant feast all day Thursday and then stuffing myself I barely feel like waking up at 3 or 4 in the morning to go shopping. Instead, we wait until all of the early birds have gone home and we go out in the afternoon. The shops are all desperate with the bad economy and they are just trying to make up for 10 months of negative balance sheets, so there are great sales all day long. No need to get trampled to death over some cheap plastic ipod.
Black Friday is my idea of consumer hell. I did it once, regrettably. I shot out of bed at 5 in the morning to stand in a long line to get INTO the store, and an even longer line to pay. In the end, I saved about $20.
The main problems I have with black friday are:
1) the mindset that comes with the day. You are geared to go out and spend, spend, spend. Without spending copious amounts of money, the day is considered a failure.
2) the deals are generally no better than what you find at random times during the year. I make my Holiday gift list months in advance and watch for good deals. Black Friday would save me little money. Also, black friday is nothing compared to the deals to be had just after Christmas.
3) i just can't bear the thought of turning into an uber-competitive person to get a good sale. i find rushing to an item to beat the person next to you rude and dehumanizing.
so, this black friday i will be sleeping in, enjoying a leisurely breakfast, and really saving money by not blowing an entire day spending it!
I have been getting up at 2 or 3am on Black Friday for several years now. Sometimes a family member comes with me, sometimes alone. It is a little bit of an adrenaline rush to get the things that you want or need for home and holiday at such great prices, even if you sacrifice a little sleep for it! :) I actually find the 2am shopping one of the most peaceful shopping times of the year. I can go all over the store without seeing more than 2 other shoppers. Very relaxing and I able to really look at items and decide if they're what I want rather than just zooming my way through the store trying to get in and out as quickly as possible, which seems to be the norm. Black Friday Shopping? Can't wait!
We have always lived a distance from family and try to get the gifts mailed out by Thanksgiving. So we snag deals all year long. A long time ago in a galaxy far away women were decking each other over Cabbage Patch dolls. Several years later I saw one in great shape (looked new, with papers) being sold in a thrift store for $2. If I ever had any inclination to go out to shop that day, that would have squashed it.
But my wife and I are moving into our first home, and we need a dryer. Home Depot has one on sale on Black Friday for much cheaper than I could find anywhere else, so I'm going to have to brave the madness.
I don't get with the maddening crowd at the super sales on Friday mornings. I've found those sales to be pushing items that the chains want you to buy, not what you want to buy.
I will check out online sales and if there is a fantastic bargain on something I need or want, then I purchase it from the comfort of my home.
I occasionally do Black Friday. I love the festival atmosphere. As long as I go with the intent to have fun and not get too invested, I have a great time, and my Christmas dollar goes a lot further.
Out of curiosity, my teenage daughters and I went out on Black Friday last year for the first time. It wasn't all we thought it would be. Will probably look at the online offers this time around.
Only if I see something I want in advance - or if I go with my Mom for fun. Otherwise, it's all online shopping for me!
I will check out the online sales on Black Friday, but other than that I will stay away from the main shopping centers. People from all over the Eastern half of South Dakota come to my town to do their Christmas shopping so I pretty much try to avoid the main shopping districts between Thanksgiving and Christmas (mainly because of the congested traffic). If I really need to go to one of these popular stores, I'll go on a week day.
I think it is fun! I always have gone out. The atmosphere is fun and the deals are worth it for a couple hours at least.
I don't Black Friday but I DO Cyber Monday. I shop for deals year round and ferret them away for later use. When you get good deals on a regular basis it just doesn't seem worth multiple hours of lines and crowds, fighting for parking, etc just to save a few bucks. I can bide my time and do it from the comfort of my own home instead. I LOVE shopping in my Pj's!
I love bargains and am willing to wake up ridiculously early for them. Not logical, but it's quite fun.
Stopped going into stores some time ago. The crowds drive me nuts. Also, it's too tempting to just buy random things. I plan, find the cheapest price and mail order. I rarely buy high ticket items (my tv is at least 10 years old) and I don't need $5 toasters.
I have gotten some great deals by shopping Black Friday over the years ... project TV for $400, laptops for $400, Games for $10, Home Theater for $50, are just a few off the top of my mind. It is cold here in Colorado waiting in line, so it is not for the faint of heart. If you are on a budget, it makes a lot of sense. I have done Cyber Monday as well, but Black Friday is more fun. I usually get about 1/2 of what I wanted.
Last year I noticed that, presumably in response to the more desperate retail climate, a lot of stores were advertising Saturday am specials that were nearly as good as Friday's. So I went out to do reconnaissance Friday evening, after the door-busters had gone home and collapsed in exhaustion. Then I went out Saturday morning and bought the things I'd picked out and confirmed to be available the night before. But it was focused shopping - only things that I needed (or at least intended) to buy anyway, things I would have bought at any other time of year and just had the convenient opportunity to get at a better price.
Also, I'm typically only shopping for myself/my household/semi-ordinary things - my Christmas gift shopping/making is often mostly done by Thanksgiving.
I am not sure whether I will "do" Black Friday or not, but I am tempted by some of the deals . . . we'll have to wait and see!
My experiences in the past have been as expected, given that it is Black Friday. I usually hit the computer stores with their great rebates. The few times I went Best Buy, people were pushy, but not obnoxious. There was this camaraderie on the outside, given that we were freezing our buns off @ 0300, waiting for the store to open @ 0500. I tried as hard as possible to be kind to the help and not overwhelm them.
I think that as the average Jane has gotten more and more used to technology and they are willing to stand outside for those technology deals, that it brings out the win-at-all-cost shopper.
My relatives buy into the early morning Black Friday rush to the malls (and strip malls, and big standalone stores, etc.). After one too many bad experiences shopping with them at 6am, now I stay home. I hate the crowds, and almost none of the gifts I buy are at those stores offering the huge discounts, anyway. I try to buy handmade or at least thoughtful gifts, so I'm doing online and boutique-only Christmas shopping this year. I don't spend a lot of money, but I seek out gifts that support individuals or the local economy. I admit that this works much better when you live in a big city, but even people in the suburbs can buy thoughtful gifts online without resorting to the mad dash on Black Friday.
If there was something I needed at a good price, yes, I've gone out. My family thinks I'm crazy, but it's fun. Unfortunately, can't do it this year since I just had foot surgery.
I will be doing most of my shopping this weekend, before the crowds are too big and the selection is good. Then on Black Friday and the few days afterward (preferably late in the evening when it's less crowded), I'll go back to the stores with my receipts and get price adjustments. This way I have what I want to buy in hand, and the price adjustments are just added bonuses. I don't feel like I have to go out on Black Friday, but then I'm motivated to do so.
I used to go out after the holidays with my mom as a kid, when barely anyone was out after the holidays to shop for Xmas. But today....there is no way I go out to shop! I don't have many people to shop for, mom, dad, grandparents, boyfriend, and pets. I try to do shopping throughout the year if I happen to see something they would like beforehand. Or I order online, get them things I can get while I'm doing grocery shopping, or I make them something.
I think a lot of people go and get the deals for items for themselves. I realize some people may have to buy a lot of things for kids and large families, but it is always wise to remember "How much would he/she like this gift, would use it, and wouldn't trash it a year later?" Kids don't have to have a million things.
In lue of Black Friday, my family and I donate items to the local humane society's annual yard sale. We save up stuff all year to donate. It creates great funding for the animals, and is an alternative shopping place for those needing to shop on Black Friday!
Even if I didn't have a small child or live in a small town with few big stores, I doubt I would be going crazy with Black Friday. Who wants to stand in long, horrible lines? There are few things I need that would be relevant (the big deals on Black Friday are pretty much just electronics and gadgetry anyway).
Cyber Monday may not have as many big deals, but with free shipping and shopping portals sites that give you cash back, buying online in the comfort of your own home is worth getting a slightly worse deal.
No Black Friday for this family. We always search for the best prices through out the year and most BF sales are for things we don't need anyway. It's not a savings if you spend what you weren't going to.
I never participated in Black Friday until I met my husband. His family always used to Black Friday shop together when he was young, so it feels like we are carrying on a tradition. It may sound strange, but it is bonding time for us.


text:
KENWOOD — Chicago Police investigating the slaying of 15-year-old Hadiya Pendleton said the gunman got into a waiting white Nissan that was possibly driven by a second person.
And the city's top cop and mayor urged anyone who knows who fired the shots to step up.
Neither the shooter nor the getaway driver is in custody, but police are interviewing teens who were with Hadiya when she was gunned down Tuesday — just more than a week after performing in Washington, D.C. at President Barack Obama's inauguration.
"I don't want this to be a three- to four-month case," Police Supt. Garry McCarthy said. "I want this closed now.
"We're going to get this one done," he said. "Anybody who thinks this town belongs to a gang is wrong. We're going to make a point that this town belongs to the community."
Hadiya, a high school sophomore, was gunned down not far from the president's Chicago home. Her murder is drawing national attention — including prayers from the president and First Lady Michelle Obama.
"It's a terrible tragedy any time a young person is struck down with so much of their life ahead of them," White House Press Secretary Jay Carney said. "And we see it far too often. The president and first lady's thoughts and prayers are with the family of Hadiya Pendleton. All of our thoughts and prayers are with her family."
Mayor Rahm Emanuel called the teen's killer "a punk" who robbed the girl's family and Chicago. He also urged witnesses to come forward to identify the gunman, saying "you are not a snitch, you are a citizen."
The Rev. Michael Pfleger, at the news conference with McCarthy, urged anyone with information to come forward. They offered $14,000 for information leading to an arrest, and urged people with informaiton to call (312) 747-8382.
"Somebody knows right now, sitting in their home — some young person knows. Some young friend of theirs knows. Some parent knows. Some adult knows," the activist priest said. "Where are you?"
"What kind of person are you that you let a killer come home and sit, eat and watch TV? It's not acceptable. ... So we're putting a bounty out on the head of the killer, so they can't kill again."
Said McCarthy: "This goes to the culture of 'no-snitch.' These kids are scared and I don't blame them."
Hadiya's father, Nathaniel Pendleton, had a message for the ones who he said "took the light of my life."
"Look at yourself and know that you took a bright person, an innocent person, a nonviolent person. This kid didn't like violence at all," he said.
"She was destined for great things and you stripped that from her."
"I'm gonna miss her every holiday — miss that I can't see her smile," he added.
Hadiya was one of 42 people slain in Chicago already this year. Six of the victims were under 18.
Hadiya was a sophomore at King College Prep — and had just finished final exams. She was with a group of teens, trying to stay out of the rain while under a canopy at Vivian Gordon Harsh Park in the 4500 block of South Oakenwald Avenue at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, authorities said.
About 2:30 p.m, an unidentified shooter jumped a fence, ran toward them and opened fire. The group scrambled, police said. The shooter jumped into a car, which was driven by a second man, and it sped away, police said.
Hadiya was hit in the back and later died, while another student, Lawrence Sellers, 17, was hit in the leg and remains at Comer Hospital. Police said Wednesday that another boy suffered a graze wound and walked to a nearby hospital.
Police on Tuesday said in a statement that "by all indications the female victim was an unintended target." But the statement said "preliminary information indicates that most of the members of the group were gang members."
McCarthy said Wednesday they had interviewed the other kids in the group with Hadiya and he again emphasized that she wasn't involved with a gang and had no criminal background.
"In fact every indication points to the fact that none of the individuals who were here and in the group were involved in any sort of criminal activity," McCarthy said. "What we believe happened is that this is some sort of territory that some gang calls their own."
Police had made no arrests as of Wednesday evening.
At Hadiya's home Wednesday, relatives described the girl as a loving daughter and sister with a huge heart who always helped others.
Family members stood near a fridge adorned with loads of Hadiya's perfect test scores, and her mother, Cleopatra Cowley-Pendleton, said she was heartened by the parents who had come up to her and thanked her for Hadiya's positive effect on their children.
She said the shooting came just weeks before she was to go on a 10-day trip to London, Dublin and Paris with classmates. Before going to the inauguration, she had gone with the majorettes to New Orleans for Mardi Gras.
"She always wanted to study abroad," Cowley-Pendleton said. "I was trying to let her see more."
She loved to read and loved her Kindle.
"The books had to be big," she said, recalling that her daughter read the Twilight series in two days.
"She was 'Team Edward' all the way," her aunt, Kimiko Pettis said, referring to a main character in the book/movie franchise.
Hadiya loved to write and thought she might one day become a journalist, her mom said.
Pettis added that her niece particularly enjoyed her Latin class at school.
Hadiya played volleyball, basketball and was a cheerleader, but she really loved being a majorette and worked hard at it, Pettis said.
She enjoyed studying new things like dancing, and she loved the makeup and pretty outfits, her aunt said.
On her Twitter page, Hadiya at times talked about school.
"I'm worried about finals," she tweeted to a friend. She also mentioned the struggles of juggling her academic work with being an athlete.
"I'm tired," she wrote in her last tweet, which was sent at 8:53 p.m. Monday.
Meanwhile, finals scheduled for Wednesday at King College Prep were canceled for the day, a Chicago Public Schools spokesman said. CPS also offered counselors for students and parents.
Outside King Prep Wednesday morning, students still headed into class, many wearing red as a tribute to Hadiya. Students decorated her locker with photos and signs.
Red was her favorite color, said Basha Adams, 15, a fellow sophomore who said she had been friends with the student since last year.
"She was that person that would always have a smile on her face," Basha said, her cheeks stained with tears. "She would be the light that would make everything seem clear and bright."
The two had traveled to Obama's inauguration, and Adams recalled the fun they had at the Smithsonian Museum on the trip to the nation's capital.
"She acted like an airplane as we looked at Bessie Coleman's biography," Basha said of the first African-American female pilot.
Basha said one of her lasting memories of Hadiya will be the teen dancing in front of her while she played clarinet in the nation's capital.
"That's something I will always cherish," she said. "She was the sweetest person you could ever meet. I'm hanging in there, but it's going to be a tough day."
Kendall Warton, a sophomore, said Hadiya had a lot of friends.
"She was a very loving and outgoing person," Warton said. "She really had an open mind and was free-spirited."
Warton described Sellers as the "class clown."
Janai Bates, 17, said she didn't know of anyone who had "any problems" with either one of the victims.
"Lawrence and Hadiya aren't the type of people to get in a conflict with anybody," Bates said. "Everybody loved them, they joked with everybody, they give out that warmth."
Meanwhile, parents worried about the safety of their children as they left their kids at the selective enrollment school.
Sean Hill pulled his daughter close and held her as she sobbed outside the school. He gave her a final hug before she went inside.
Hill said his "heart just hit the floor" when he found out Tuesday that Hadiya had been killed, a parent's worst nightmare.
"Every day they walk out your door, you're concerned," he said. "They're just trying to be kids. But our kids can't be kids anymore. It's sickening."
LaTosha Fleming said her daughter, Chynna, cried all night Tuesday.
"It's difficult to comfort her," Fleming, 45, a paralegal, said. "I just hugged her and told her it would be OK."
Fleming's family had recently moved from Naperville and this was her daughter's first year at the school, she said, but that she is already considering moving them again.
Parent Willy Curtis said he reminded his children to be very careful.
"You don't know when it's going to happen or where it's going to happen," he said. "It can happen under a tree."

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Since 1979, we have provided quality equipment and friendly service at reasonable rates. Our experienced staff can assist you in your selection for the best tools & equipment as well as your party and wedding needs!
Business of the Year Award WinnerClick here to read more!
Serving Prior Lake, Savage, Burnsville, Shakopee, Spring Lake, New Prague, Jordan, Lakeville, Eden Prairie, and Belle Plaine and surrounding communities with equipment & tool rentals, party & wedding rentals, Honda Equipment sales, propane, and supplies


text:
|front top left : lime shoes - Alexander Wang fish shoes - yellow shoes - multi pastel flats - double platform blue shoes - Vuitton pastel sabot - light blue shoes - tall wedges
|from up left: pattern platform shoes - metal stilettos - black pink Diego Dolcini shoes - orange shoes- Casadei cut out wedges - pink suede shoes
What better way to start Sunday if not with some shoe shopping? Spring shoes are fresh as sorbets, ready to quench our thirst of shopping. Here I listed some of my favorite pastel ones.


text:
OCEAN CITY – Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) Corporal Dennis Eade this week was named as the 2010 recipient of the Ocean City Neighborhood Watch Association's "Officer of the Year" award, emerging from a field of impressive nominees for the annual honor during an award banquet on Tuesday.
Eade was named the 15th recipient of the annual award handed out on Monday by the Neighborhood Watch Association, made up of eight communities in the resort including Caine Woods, Caine Woods II, Montego Bay, Little Salisbury, Bayshore Drive, Edgewater Avenue, Sundowner Park and the Boardwalk area, the latest addition to the group. The award was presented on Tuesday during the annual banquet at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, which was attended by nearly 100 guests.
"I am honored and humbled to receive such recognition from the residents of Ocean City," said Eade at the ceremony. "Every day, I am motivated and inspired by my fellow officers of the Ocean City Police Department. I, along with my fellow nominees and the men and women of the Ocean City Police Department, will surely continue to dedicate ourselves 100 percent to the town of Ocean City and to public safety."
Eade was named Officer of the Year by the association from an impressive field of nominees that also included Cpl. Frank Wrench, Pfc. Pam Russell, Dfc. Todd Speigle, Dfc. Jeffery Johns and Detective Joseph Molina. Last years winner was Officer-First Class Charles "Josh" Kelley. Detective-Corporal James Schwartz won the award in 2008, Corporal Brian Mongelli won in 2007, Lt. Scott Kirkpatrick won in 2006 and Officer First Class Freddie Howard took home the award in 2005.
After the ceremony at the convention center, Eade went with his wife to the Ocean City Mayor and Council meeting where OCPD Captain Kevin Kirstein introduced him to a standing ovation. Again, Eade thanked his fellow officers for their support in making the award possible.
"I am motivated every day I put on my uniform and go to work by my fellow officers at the Ocean City Police Department," he said. "They're the ones that keep me going and they have been an incredible source of support for me and my family throughout the years and I am very fortunate."
Eade told the Mayor and Council and the audience assembled for the meeting he didn't anticipate his career path landing in Ocean City.
"I am originally from upstate New York and I have to be honest here that I had no intentions of coming to Ocean City and working full time here for the rest of my career and the rest of my life," he said. "Well, that changed in a hurry when I came down here as a seasonal officer in 1997 and I met the men and women of the Ocean City Police Department and the citizens of Ocean City."
Eade began his law enforcement career with the OCPD as a seasonal officer for three years from 1997-1999. He became a full-time OCPD officer in 2000. He is one of the only Ocean City officers who has been assigned to every division in the department. In addition to being named "Officer of the Year," Eade has six departmental commendations for outstanding police performance, three unit citations and a Chief's commendation for pulling a drowning victim from the dangerous Ocean City Inlet waters.
Eade serves the OCPD in a number of capacities. He is a Maryland State Police and Corrections Training Commission certified police instructor. He is a Police Academy drill instructor and is one of the department's defensive tactics instructors. Eade has also instructed full- and part-time officers in courtroom testimony, juvenile law, drug identification and advanced defensive tactics.


text: If you've ever wanted to learn Git, but didn't want to configure a server, GitHub may be the place to do it.\nThat thought isn't mine alone. During a recent site visit, Groupon's lead talent scout told me the company searches for candidates not on a resume site but, rather, by searching through recent GitHub commits.\nIf that isn't enough reason to learn Git, how about a free tutorial? Today's your lucky day. It will only take about an hour.\nFirst, Find a Git Project \u2013 or Use Our Sample\nGit uses a branch-per-issue model; the local copy is the branch you're currently working on. You can commit to it, roll it back and, periodically, push it to the GitHub server. The basic operations are Add, Commit and Push. GitHub is a fee-based corporate repository for code but open-source projects are free.\n[ News: GitHub Cranks Delivery Speeds, Adds Analytics ]\nToday we'll make an open-source project and put it up on GitHub. We just need a little code.\nTo get started, pick a project that has some code and a build step. If you don't have any code, you can use The Factory Simulation, which requiresonly Ruby to run. Just create a subdirectory with another subdirectory called "lib" and copy the five files in the right places.\nTo understand the code, read my previous article on getting started with Ruby. To run the application, go to the root directory and type "ruby factory_multi3.rb" from the command line. To run the tests, change the directory into the test directory and "ruby run_all.rb." (This is code the author, Matt Heusser, wrote and contributed under open source license with contributions from Zach Spencer.)\nNext, Create a GitHub Account\nGo to github.com and sign up. Now download and install the latest version of the command-line tools. From here, we'll create a repository through the Web interface, then import our code into GitHub using command-line tools.\nStart on the login page, clicking the green "+ New Repository" button at the middle right:\n \nStart by creating a repository. If you get stuck, consider GitHub's own bootcamp.\n\n\u00a0\nOnce you've created the repository, start your command line and run these commands. Make sure you change the directory to your code directory.\ntouch README.md\nNote: Windows has no "touch." Instead, edit and save a blank text file called README.md.\ngit init\ngit add *\ngit commit -m "first commit"\ngit remote add origin https:\/\/github.com(Username)\/(Repository_name).git\ngit push -u origin master\nType in your username and password. Congratulations, you have public code on GitHub \u2013 at the url of http:\/\/github.com\/(Username)\/(Repository_name) \u2013 for the world to see.\nWhat Did I Just Do?\nFirst, with the "touch" command, we created the readme file that git init displays when you look at the root directory of your repository online. It's in this file that we'll tell users how to run our program.\nGit init created an empty Git repository in your local directory. "Add *" added every file in that repository, and all subdirectorys, to the local repository, while commit committed the changes into a changeset. Notice the -m at the end. That's a version note. If you leave off the -m, then Git will force you to edit the note in vi.\nNext, we connected our changes to GitHub with Git remote add. If you run your own server, you'll just need to change the URL. Finally, we pushed our changes to GitHub with git push.\nNow, if I go to https:\/\/github.comMattExcelon\/factory6 (the import I just made), I see that README.md is blank. Let's edit it, adding the following text. You can cut and paste.\nThe Factory Simulation\nFrom CIO.com, uploaded by (name), based on the work of Matthew Heusser firstname.lastname@example.com\nDistributed under the GNU GPL 2.0 license: http:\/\/choosealicense.com\/licenses\/gpl-2.0\/\nImagine a factory that has a number of stations. Each day, work proceeds through the stations.\nThe stations have high variability but are balanced. We simulate this with a six sided die. Users enter the number of stations and days and the application shows how work processes. The advanced version, factory_multi3.rb allows you to simulate multiple runs of the factory (run it a thousand times and take the averages) or change the number of dice.\n## Dependencies\nThis code developed and tested under ruby 2.0.0p247. As long as you have ruby 1.9.3 or higher you should be fine.\n## Running the Simulation\n1. `cd this\/project\/directory`\n2. `ruby factory.rb` or `ruby factory_multi3.rb`\n## Running the Tests\nYou've now made a change to the code that needs to be committed. So:\ngit add READM.md\ngit commit -m \u201cUpdated the Readme to provide information\u201d\ngit push\nAfter this, in your browser, Shift-Refresh http:\/\/github.com\/(Username)\/(Repository_name) and see the README appear. You'll note that the pound-signs (#) are a type of markdown language, creating headings. (For more, see the GitHub Help on Markdown.)\nAfter Your Own Repositories\nGitHib is more than a website. It's a community. You can follow other people, follow project work and receive notifications for changes; GitHub even has some recommendations for where to start.\nIn addition to your own work, you may want to fork the work of others by making a copy of their work for you to tinker with. To fork, view a GitHub repository \u2013 below is https:\/\/github.comtaq\/vim-refact -- click "Fork" at right and you'll have your own version created, along with an automatic redirect.\n\n\u00a0\nOn you own page, which is now https:\/\/github.comheusserm\/vim-refact, you'll see "HTTPS clone URL" on the right side. On the command-line, go to the root of your Git installation and type the following:\ngit clone (URL you copied)\nGit will create a copy of the repository on your local machine, which you can now add, commit and push.\nThose changes will be local to your repository and won't impact anyone. When the time is right, issue a pull request, notifying the other person of your changes and giving them a chance to patch up your work.\n[ Feature: Programmers Pick 7 Great GitHub Integrations ]\nHere we focused on a few of the fundamental pieces of Git \u2013 namely, how to add\/commit\/push to GitHub and how to create repositories. That's enough to write your own code to be crawled by recruiters. The hard work is creating the personal projects interesting enough that the recruiters will want to call you back.\nWe've also created a full-functional application, with tests, in GitHub. Our next step should be to integrate that with a continuous integration (CI) system such as Jenkins that pushes to GitHub generate a new build\/test run of our software.\nLet's talk about that another time.


text:
As states ponder protection, roadless forests unravel
Forest Service says it's bound by the rules to allow some logging, drilling and mining
The Clear Fork roadless area in western Colorado holds one of the largest expanses of aspen trees in the world. In 2001, the 24,000-acre tract in the Grand Mesa-Uncompahgre-Gunnison National Forest was protected, part of 58.5 million acres preserved nationwide by President Clinton's Roadless Area Conservation Rule.
Shortly after taking office, President Bush abandoned his predecessor's rule by failing to defend it against lawsuits. Then, last May, the administration unveiled its own version of the rule, and allowed individual governors a say in how roadless areas in their states are managed. While states consider whether to recommend protections — they have until Nov. 13 to submit petitions — the Forest Service promised not to move forward with any development in roadless areas (HCN, 12/26/05: Roadless forest plans draw crowds — and lawsuits).
But even as Colorado Gov. Bill Owens, R, gathers public input, the Clear Fork may be headed for the auction block. Next month, at the behest of industry, federal officials plan to offer part of the area for natural gas exploration. At least 14 other roadless-area projects, ranging from energy development to logging and mining, are also in the works around the West.
Outraged environmentalists say the Forest Service is doing more than just breaking a promise; it's also potentially overriding states' wishes. Sloan Shoemaker, executive director of the Carbondale, Colo.-based Wilderness Workshop, calls it "a very disingenuous policy on the part of the administration."
But Mark Rey, the Department of Agriculture undersecretary who oversees the Forest Service, says environmentalists' fears of a development blitzkrieg are unfounded. The Forest Service says it is approving only those projects it's legally obliged to approve, under current forest plans or court order.
Rey points to the Mike's Gulch salvage timber sale in Oregon's South Kalmiopsis roadless area as an example. Environmentalists see the June sale, within the area burned by the 2002 Biscuit Fire, as precedent-setting. But Bush's 2005 roadless rule exempted the Biscuit Burn from protection, and Rey says the project would have been approved even under Clinton's roadless rule, which included exceptions for improving forest health, enhancing wildlife habitat, or reducing the risk of unnaturally intense wildfires. The courts upheld the salvage logging plan, and Rey says it "will not diminish the roadless character" of the area, because the trees will be removed via helicopter.
As for the Clear Fork, Rey says the Forest Service could rescind any leases sold there in August if Owens requests that the area be protected. Critics argue, however, that once the area is leased for energy exploration, it will be all but impossible to stop it from being developed.
But a complex tangle of policies dictates what the agency can and cannot do right now. Bush's 2005 roadless rule says that until a state files a petition and the Department of Agriculture makes a decision on it, each roadless area will continue to be managed under its forest's current plan. But under an interim directive renewed in January, the agency can change the way it manages a roadless area, provided it performs a new roads analysis. The directive also allows Forest Service Chief Dale Bosworth or regional agency officials to approve certain road-building or timber projects.
The confusing rules have even supporters of the Bush rule raising an eyebrow. "Frankly, the whole process is less than understandable for the public," says Steve Robinson, natural resource policy advisor to Nevada Gov. Kenny Guinn, R. "We supported it at first, because we generally think it's good to have the states involved in the process. But it's so ill-defined, it's hard to get a handle on what it means."
Robert Vandermark, director of the Heritage Forests Campaign, says Bush's rule is full of loopholes: "A lot of these projects that have been on the shelf are being reinvigorated before the Nov. 13 deadline."
All the recent activity underscores the need for governors to petition to protect their roadless areas, Vandermark adds. So far, only one Western state, New Mexico, has submitted a petition, although Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Utah all have petitions in the works. Some states, such as Wyoming, have indicated they would rather work with the Forest Service to determine how to manage roadless areas.
If a state doesn't file a strong petition, or if the administration rejects its petition, intact wild areas will once again be managed according to individual forest plans. That prospect rankles Vandermark and other forest advocates. "With population growth, more wild areas are dwindling every day, and we should really want to preserve these last remaining areas," he says. "To just go in and take them away really does a disservice to the American people."
The author is a freelance writer in Santa Fe, New Mexico.


text:
Deliberate metaphor
Deliberate metaphor—when, how, and with which functions and effects is metaphor used deliberately as metaphor, drawing people's attention to the source domain as a basis for comparison?
Metaphor studies was revolutionized around the 1980s by the occurrence of the cognitive turn. Since then, research has elaborated a two-dimensional model for metaphor, in language and in thought. However, new insights have shown the need for a three-dimensional model for metaphor, in which the dimension of communication is crossed with language and thought. This dimension caters to the difference between the deliberate versus non-deliberate use of metaphor as a metaphor between language users and raises new questions about the structure, functions and processes of metaphor in language use and their operation in discourse. The research feeds into the development of a new theory for metaphor called Deliberate Metaphor Theory.
- The value of deliberate metaphor
- Metaphor in college lectures
- Embodied simulation and metaphor
- Inhibition of the non-deliberate
Past projects


text:
Join the #LNG discussion on U.S. and global gas fundamentals with our Research and Fundamentals team.
Watch on YouTube
Follow us on Twitter @TellurianLNG
Host: Johan Yokay
Guests: Renee Pirrong, Kevin Greene & Kirk Shepherd
Producer: Allison Clark
Program outline
00:20 – The latest trends in LNG demand
03:14 – How the #Permian basin is becoming more of a driving force for U.S. liquefaction
05:16 – Latest trends in U.S. #pipeline infrastructure
Business Description
#Tellurian was founded by #CharifSouki and #MartinHouston and is led by #President and #CEO #MegGentle. Tellurian intends to create value for shareholders by building a #low-cost, global natural gas business, profitably delivering natural gas to customers worldwide. Tellurian is developing a portfolio of natural gas production, LNG trading, and infrastructure that includes an ~ 27.6 mtpa LNG export facility and an associated pipeline. Tellurian is based in Houston, Texas, and its common stock is listed on the #Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol "TELL".
This podcast contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of U.S. federal securities laws. The words "anticipate," "assume," "believe," "budget," "estimate," "expect," "forecast," "initial," "intend," "may," "plan," "potential," "project," "proposed," "should," "will," "would," and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements herein relate to, among other things, future LNG prices and demand, natural gas production, pipeline permitting and construction and other factors potentially affecting our business and prospects and our industry. These statements involve a number of known and unknown risks, which may cause actual results to differ materially from expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. These risks include the matters discussed in Item 1A of Part I of the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Tellurian for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, and other Tellurian filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, all of which are incorporated by reference herein. FID is subject to the completion of financing arrangements that may not be completed within the time frame expected or at all. The forward-looking statements in this podcast speak as of the date it was posted. Although Tellurian may from time to time voluntarily update its prior forward-looking statements, it disclaims any commitment to do so except as required by securities laws.
Music | #cool by Vincent Augustus is licensed under a Attribution-ShareAlike License | CC BY-SA 4.0


text:
[Answer ID: 13669]
How to upload files to the CloudStation from a PC
Created 10/13/2011 12:11 | Updated 02/13/2012 18:15
There are 2 way to upload your files.
|Upload the files via the CloudUI
- Select a target drive and folder to upload on the CloudUI.
- Click [Upload files] on the toolbar .
* If the drive or the folder is empty, you also can click [Upload] button in the message box.
- The dialogue for the target files is displayed.
Click the [Add Files] button on the dialogue, and choose the files you want to upload.
- Check the target file are correct, and click the [Upload].
The file uploading will start soon.
|Upload the files via the CloudUI
- Install Pogoplug software into your PC, then launch it.
Click here to see how to upload your files using the Pogoplug software.
- Copy or Move your files as you do on local drive.
OS / Hardware
Was this answer helpful?
Please tell us how we can make this answer more useful.


text:
Are You Ready For Some Cyclocross? Really, Are You Ready?
The MAC is up and running and already has over 1000 registrants, MABRAcross will open its doors for business this … Continue reading Are You Ready For Some Cyclocross? Really, Are You Ready?
Your Source For Cyclocross, MTB and Gravel Content
The MAC is up and running and already has over 1000 registrants, MABRAcross will open its doors for business this … Continue reading Are You Ready For Some Cyclocross? Really, Are You Ready?
JBV Coaching and Fulcrum Coaching hosted their second annual cyclocross clinic with Cannondale-Cyclocrossworld.com rider Jeremy Powers at Rosaryville State Park … Continue reading JBV Coaching & Fulcrum Coaching CX Clinic Photos
The Howard County Double Cross weekend took place November 21 and 22. Schooley Mill Cross, a new race, featured long power sections and some muddy climbs. Rockburn Cross featured the same exciting single-track sections, punchy climbs and technical turns as it has the past three years.
For these interviews, I tracked down podium finishers that have yet to grace the cyber-pages of In The Crosshairs for their racing prowess. This way we get a couple more voices in the mix, with different takes on some of the same old questions. I also included sixth place finishers at Rockburn because those folks won pie. And if you win pie, you deserve to be recognized.
I think the highlight of these interviews is the great discussion on race starts and the hole shot. Pay attention to what these folks are saying and see if their successful strategy matches up with what you are doing.
Thanks for reading.
Rusty Williford (Fulcrum Coaching/WWVC Racing, Rockburn Cat 3/4, 4th place): Same thing every week: Get to the course by 8:30, recon the course until 9, kit-up and hit the trainer by 10, off-the trainer by 10:35 and head to the course for either 1 hot lap or a few starts.
Andreas Gutzeit (HPC List, Schooley Mill Masters 3/4, 4th place): I do about two laps of the course, mainly looking for good lines. Then I do 30 minute warm-up. Jeff Anderson describes cross racing as a reverse crit. Very helpful for a novice roadie. So now I have taken to practice the start on the course a couple of times and it really served me well at Schooley Mill. I was fourth into the dirt and ended up fourth 40 minutes later.
Chris Nystrom (C3-Athletes Serving Athletes, Elite Masters, Schooley Mill 8th, Rockburn 6th): Arrive early enough to preview the course before the start of the race two slots before my race. Really getting to know and understand the track is key. Pin up the number and get dressed during the race (two prior) and ride the course with a bit more speed before the next race. Ride the trainer and b.s. with teammates during the race just before mine. Red Bull 45 minutes before my start. Get to the line, relax and visualize the start. Remember to have fun.
John Cutler (CycleLife DC, 1st place Schooley Mill Men's 3/4, 19th place Rockburn Elite Masters): Coffee and a Starbucks egg sandwich (kind of disgusting, yes, but fast). Drive. Listen to NPR or that weird show about parenting. A moment of sheer terror trying to find a gas station with a restroom. Arrive in the middle of one of the races. 20 minutes to get number and get ready to pre-ride. Ride a couple laps. Pretend that I'm actually remembering the corners and lines. Hop on the trainer for 40 minutes. I used to never bring a trainer, but I've come around. You can listen to music and zone out. Then Race.
When a race throws a kink in my plans—like a really long walk to registration, one port-potty, a line at registration, a line for the hose, etc.—it really throws me for a loop. I said this last year, but I'll say it again. NEXT YEAR I'm going all out with the tent, the easy chairs, that little mat for taking of your shoes, the cooler, etc. For two days of racing your post race routine is really important as well. Instead of jumping back into the car while slamming recovery shakes, it can pay to relax, socialize, put your feet up, and commune with fellow racers.
Jeff Trinh (Georgetown University, 1st place at Schooley Mill Men's Cat 4, 6th place at Rockburn Men's Cat 4): Coffee and oatmeal for breakfast. When I get to the race site I get dressed and pre-ride the course, making sure to drink plenty of water in between laps. One of the advantages of doing the 9am race is that you have plenty of time to pre-ride, so I like take my time and make mental notes about which lines I'll pick.
Elizabeth Harlow (C3-Athletes Serving Athletes, Women's 1,2,3 Schooley Mill 4th and Rockburn 6th): Ride the course a couple of times before the Master Men's Elite race. Paying attention to anything that may give me trouble. Ride around easy while the men race and then ride the course again close to race pace after the men finish.
Jon Hicks (Winchester Wheelemen, Rockburn Cat 4 5th place): The first lap to get a feel for the flow and the second much slower, looking for objects to avoid. A gel and FRS 30 minutes before the start.
Andrew Welch (Squadra Coppi, Mens 3/4, 3rd at Schooley Mill, 1st at Rockburn): I don't like to have a lot of down time before my race, so I usually show up just in time to get a couple laps in before the previous race goes out … nothing too fast, just some course recon and easy warm-up. Then I get my number, change kit, and finish warming up … on the road. I have a trainer in my car, but it hasn't come out all season. Continue reading "HoCo2xCx Podium & Pie Interviews"


text:
MACON (AP) — Kendall Raley fiddles with the silver beaded chains around her neck. On them hang three dog tags — one is hers and one is her father's. The third she received earlier in April in commemoration of Month of the Military Child.
"I never take them off, especially when he's gone," she said.
Her father, Master Sgt. Robert Raley, has been in the military for 22 years and is currently stationed at Robins Air Force Base.
On Kendall's right arm dangles a colorful array of rubber wristbands, several of which have military significance.
A burgundy bangle reads "Operation Military Kids," the camouflage band reads "Supporting our Troops," and another green one says, "Defending Freedom." A fourth woven, camel skin bracelet has no inscription but was a gift her father bought for her while deployed overseas.
Master Sgt. Raley has been deployed four times during the eighth grader's career at Northside Middle School and returned from his last stint only recently.
"He came back a month and 12 days ago," Kendall said.
Kendall's life is a balance between wanting to be a normal kid and pride in being a military kid.
"I want to be called a military kid," she said. "It makes me feel special, but sometimes you're just a normal kid and want to do normal things. It's hard in ways because your parents have to leave on deployment. It's especially hard because I'm a daddy's girl."
Kendall, 13, is one of more than 7,700 Houston County students who are military affiliated — more than 3,000 have parents who are active duty — making up 28 percent of the district's student population. More than 89,000 children statewide have at least one parent currently serving in the military.
Every day in Middle Georgia may be armed forces appreciation day, but since 1986 when designated by then Secretary of Defense Caspar Weinberger, April has been for the children who support service members both in and out of uniform.
"A lot of times we tend to get the focus as service members wearing the uniforms for the sacrifices we make, but not one of us could do anything without the support we get from our families," said Chief Master Sgt. Patrick Bowen, during an assembly at Russell Elementary School. "We could not do the things that we do without the love and support that we get at home."
With one parent around six months out of the year, there are a lot more chores around the house and more time spent helping younger siblings with homework, Kendall said.
Those times when the family is all together are packed with vacations and family time, sometimes just laughing while hanging around the house, she said.
"He's marking memories in our minds, so when he's gone you have things to remember," she said.
Though her father is constantly on the move, Kendall has been in the Houston County School System since first grade after her family moved from Florida.
That opportunity is one ounce of consistency many military children are not allowed.
Kaitlyn Kalch, 17, and Chris Watts, 16, have each been at Veterans High School for about a year.
Watts, a sophomore, has lived in Alaska and other parts of Georgia, and Kalch, a junior who was born on Robins Air Force Base, seems to have come full circle. Both also previously called Germany and Florida home.
The average military child will move six to nine times during their K-12 years , said Lesley Darley, Robins Air Force Base school liaison officer.
Col. David Southerland, vice commander of the 78th Air Base Wing at Robins Air Force Base, has taken note of his own children's experiences.
Throughout his more than 30-year tenure in the Air Force, his family has moved 16 times, he said during a Houston County board of education meeting.
"We've lived in four different countries and lived throughout about half of the United States," he said. "For me, that's a great opportunity. My children have some experiences that some kids won't ever experience, living in different cultures and learning what different, other people are like; but I was born and raised in Atlanta and I moved one time in my entire life and I was traumatized just from one time. There are some challenges that go along with being a military child, and one of those things is to move.
"One of the great things about moving around is that you eventually end up in great communities, and one of those great communities is here in Houston County."
Kalch and Watts have each navigated the life of military children. They both nod in agreement while the other explains what it's like, and often have had some experiences similar enough that they finish each other's thoughts.
For both students, athletics have served as an avenue to form new bonds.
Still, switching schools can bring about issues with different school calendars, curriculums and adjusting to different cultures, they said.
To help alleviate some of the challenges, 41 states have adopted the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, which seeks to make transition easier by, among other things, waiving courses for graduation if similar course work has been completed in another state and accepting end-of-course exams and other tests from other states in lieu of requirements in the receiving state.
According to W. John Matthews III, program specialist with Interstate Commission on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, Georgia could become the next state to adopt the compact, as Senate Bill 227 was passed during the current legislative session and is on Gov. Nathan Deal's desk awaiting signature.
At the local level, Darley, the base school liaison, organizes comfort and assistance programs for military students, sometimes orchestrating surprises with deployed parents who come home early.
Darley also works with Houston County 4-H, which received a $20,000 grant to bring to the area Operation: Military Kids, which provides activities and events for children impacted by deployment.
Military students face their own unique set of challenges, stated a Month of the Military Child proclamation read at the board of education meeting.
"These children are a source of pride and honor for us all, and it is only fitting that we take time to recognize their contributions, celebrate their spirit, and let our men and women in uniform know that while they are taking care of us, we are taking care of their children," the proclamation read. "When parents serve in the military; their children also serve and are our heroes, too."
Chief Master Sgt. Bowen summed it up for Russell Elementary students a few days later.
"I salute you for everything you do for your parents," he said.


text:
Welcome everyone to our first challenge for 2017 with the title
chosen by the lovely Brenda
blog is always there! Gabrielle x
Happy New Year everyone, and to help my new year resolutions to
a) get organised, and
b) lose half my bodyweight :-)
here's a card that I made whilst eating up the Christmas chocolate!
More details can be found here on my blog. I hope 2017 is kind to you, and thanks very much for looking x
I rather indulged myself with this month's great theme of Anything Goes and gathered some favourite supplies and using some of my all time favourite techniques made an art panel for this fabulous quote - which is quite apt for the beginning of the year. Do join me over on my blog if you would like to see some more details.
This time of the year I find I need a bit of colour to cheer me up. Maybe you're equally affected by the short days and grey skies... so, to ward off the SAD disorder, the Crafty doctor prescribes a dose of colour!
Should you wonder how I made this card... all the details are on my blog here.
Happy New Year to you all!
Although it's the first day of the new year I haven't brought you here a new year's card but a birthday tag. For me the January means the birthday of two very special people in my life: my sister and my daughter. So I can't waste time at the end of December I always have to make birthday cards too.
If you want to see the supply list of this tag, please visit my blog.
Hello there and a very happy New Year to you! I hope you can join us for our new challenge of anything goes - I had lots of fun playing with paperartsy stamps and gelatos - if you'd like to know what I did please go over to my blog here.
Hugs Rachel x
Happy New Year to Everyone
Im starting my new year with a journal page for this months Challenge. The theme is Anything Goes and I've added
A lot of layers, all of which you can see over on my blog. Hope to see you there.
Hugs Debs xx
Happy New Year everyone!
In our theme of "Anything goes", I decided to play with some wonderful stamps from Tracy Scott. For more details, please visit my blog.
Happy New Year everyone !
The lovely Brenda has chosen the team 'Anything Goes' for this month and I have made this card:
Happy New Year everyone !
The lovely Brenda has chosen the team 'Anything Goes' for this month and I have made this card:
The details of how I made this card in the YouTube tutorial I made. You will find the link on my blog HERE or simply click the picture underneath !
Thank you for looking ! I will be back later in the month with some more inspiration.
Corrie x
Happy New Year everybody!
Since this is the first day of the New Year, I made a tear-off calendar.
I love the rusty look, so I decided to upcycle this calendar, which looked boring before.
If you want to see, how I made it, please visit my blog.
Hello everyone, Happy New Year and welcome to 2017. This is a wonderful time to raise our glasses and toast all the new beginnings ahead of us. For our family it will be a new grand baby due in May. So exciting. Our challenge at Country View this month is "Anything goes" and I decided to make a New Year card.
The background is a mixed media master board using my own handmade stencils using my glue gun and a palm tree stamp ( I kid you not!) If you would like to find out more and also see my step by step pop over to my blog here where a
glass of champagne warm welcome, as always, awaits you.
Bye for now,
Jane x
Welcome 2017 with these fantastic projects from our Design Team. So it's over to you now, create your project and link it below with the chance to win a £20 voucher to use on the Country View Crafts website.Thanks to everyone who took up the Christmas challenge last month (year). There are some beautiful festive entries and the winner will be announced soon


text:
Build strength and flexibility with our Pilates Resistance Bands. Great for portable fitness, toning and maintaining strength. Hundreds of exercises can be performed safely with these resistance bands. Effective for rehabilitation of injuries and physical therapy.
Tone and shape your whole body
4 foot length
Available in light, medium, heavy and XX Heavy Pilates bands
Tweet Now!
Your discount code: Y92IC12E1NF1


text:
|Robert Glasper
In a recent lesson, I had one of my students listen to some Robert Glasper. Who is Robert Glasper?
Glasper is a young pianist from Houston, Texas. He went to New York to study at the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music, and he has had a meteoric rise to success in the jazz world. He was signed to Blue Note in 2005, after having worked as a sideman with people like trumpeter Nicholas Payton and rapper Q-Tip. Glasper is a piano virtuoso: he has a ferocious right hand, which can blaze solo lines of impressive complexity, but also deliver soulful melodic statements. Glasper represents a different point of departure in his influences: I hear more Herbie Hancock and Brad Mehldau, and also some modern Gospel influence. His rhythmic phrasing comes more from hip-hop than be-bop. (Although, I don't think hip-hop would have existed without be-bop, but that's another discussion.)
Back to my lesson: my student and I had been talking about rhythm. I usually urge students to listen to Wynton Kelly to learn how to swing. But jazz rhythm has changed a lot since the 1950's and 1960's. It has incorporated all of the trends in American popular music, including rock, soul, funk, and hip hop. Glasper does some beautiful behind-the-beat hip-hop phrasing on "Yes I'm Country(And That's OK)". I wanted my student to try to emulate Glasper's approach in order to have a wider perspective, and to make his rhythmic approach more organic.


text:
If you are a new leader in your church's hospitality or welcome ministry, register for this online class to help you get started in preparing for the upcoming season of welcome.
If you
- Were recently appointed as leader of your hospitality ministry
- Want to reorganize a stale welcome ministry
- Re-launch your hospitality ministry for the next season of growth.
you may not know where to begin.
Where do you begin?
If you are just getting started, you are likely feeling a little overwhelmed with where to begin.
It feels like staring into the fog.
Let me help you get the fog out and help develop an action plan to help you get unstuck.
Step up!: First Steps to Running or Restarting Your Welcome Ministries, is an on-demand class for you.
I've helped other hospitality ministry leaders breakthrough that log-jam of inaction and set them moving forward again.
They felt like they were staring into the fog and not seeing much of anything clearly.
You'll get your creativity going as you think of ways to move forward with your hospitality ministry.
The cost is an investment in retaining new families in your church membership.
Here is what you can expect to learn:
- The Two Best Measurements of Effective Hospitality
- The Master Word that will Help You Find and Remove Hidden Faults
- 7 Areas to Form Your Action Plan
- Duration: 1 hour and a 30 minutes.
- Instant Access
- It is a narrated PowerPoint presentation.
- No travel necessary.
- Price: Click here to see pricing in the store.
Who is this class for?
- If you are the new leader of your church hospitality committee and not sure how or where to start
- Did you inherit a stale welcome ministry and need to re-launch it?
- Perhaps you've been appointed as the new director who oversees the hospitality ministry of your church.
- Does your hospitality ministry feel stuck?
- Or maybe your hospitality committee is not quite sure where to start?
- Or perhaps you are rotating off your committee leadership soon and need to train your replacement.
What will you receive?
- Instant Access to download the video (MP4 for Windows Player and Quicktime).
- Copies of MP3 audio to download
- Copies of the slides as a PDF.
- The optional handout that accompanies the teaching, along with links to further resources.
- Permission to use this recording and resources in your congregation.
- Click to see the pricing for the recorded version of this class.
- Payable on-line via PayPal OR Credit Card via the order button below.
- I will not see payment information.
- You'll receive a reminder emails with the access codes as time grows closer.
- You'll receive your receipt by email which should contain the entrance link that will be unique to you.
Order Now:
Click on the big button below and you'll be taken to the page in the EvangelismCoach.org store to add it to your cart.
Who is Chris Walker?
Chris has given Evangelism Training seminars around the US and 9 Countries in Latin America.
He is fittingly known as the Evangelism Coach because of his extensive work with churches in the US and Latin America in the areas of evangelism and church growth. Chris is an ordained pastor in the Presbyterian Church (USA).
His website has over 1000 articles on personal evangelism, congregational evangelism, and hospitality, as well as a podcast feed, all for free.
Ready for Results?
- Practical. Based on my life experiences teaching evangelism and church hospitality on two continents and in two languages.
- Biblical – No compromising of Scripture to get butts on benches here.
- Personal – You'll work with me to plan and apply lessons to fit the personality of your church.
- Affordable – A fraction of the cost of taking your ministry team to a conference or me to speak in person for a few days.
- Step-by-Step Help. – You get some great ideas and focus to apply right away.
- Gospel-Centered – It's all about Jesus, proclaiming the glorious good and making disciples.
Frequent Webinar Questions
Q. What if I've been leading the hospitality ministry for a few years?
You may find that this class will spur some creativity or give you different angle to look at things.
I won't simply say "be nice to people" or "tell your greeters to say this phrase" but teach hospitality leaders how to identify shortcomings in their own context and think through ways to fix them.
The get started steps will focus on helping provide a framework for action over the next six months or so.
What others have said about Chris Walker's Teaching
- -Inspirational, re-awakening.
- Do not be afraid! Evangelism is not scary – or need not be. It can be a friendly conversation.
- "Attend one. " You will no longer fear, ridicule or avoid evangelism.
- More people really want to know Jesus and how to help others reach Him.
- Good. Well worth it.
- The seminar was awesome.
- You will lose your misconceptions about evangelism.
- Go with an open heart and mind and you will leave fulfilled.
- You'll learn to listen better.
- An inspiring motivational speaker with a message for all.
- Just do it – You will find that the skills are within, this encourages you to put them to use.
- The seminar helps you feel more comfortable about evangelism.
- Tools to share one's faith with others to help them.
- Your Church Hospitality Webinar Inspired Creativity
Order Now:
Click the big button and you'll be taken to EvangelismCoach Sore to process your payment and receive instant access to the recording.
Do you have other questions?
Please use the form below to ask me other questions that you may have. I'll reply as well in the comment field.


text:
There is so much to worry about when it comes to running your home.
And if that's not enough, include one more thing on the list: When should I replace my heater?
Your heating system shouldn't require undivided attention, but it shouldn't be taken for granted, either. Ignoring your system could result in indoor air that is loaded with dust or allergens (or worse!), or even an inefficient heating unit that is wasting energy and money with every utility bill.
But how should I know if it's time to replace my heating unit?
The following warning signs can help you determine if you just need a quick service or if it's time to replace your current heating system.
1. Frequent Repair Costs
It is normal for a heating unit to eventually need a part replacement or a little love once a year to make sure everything is running properly, but a well-maintained heating unit should work without much repairing along the way. A few signs that your system may be in need of replacing are below:
A general rule to remember: if annual repair costs reach half of the present value of the heating system, it's likely time to replace your furnace.
2. Energy Efficiency
Are your heating are a little higher than this time last year? That may be a sign that some part of your heating system is weakening. Most companies can give you a residential energy audit which can point out easily remedied inefficiencies like weather-stripping around your doors and windows or attic insulation. It may also be the first step in determining if your heating unit is going out. Older heating units can be very inefficient, while newer technologies are much more efficient at heating your home. Also, upgrading to a high-efficiency product could mean tax credits or utility rebates and incentives to help you recoup the cost of the new system.
3. Old Age
Heating units were never designed to last until the end of time. Better, more efficient technology is coming out all the time. But how long should your unit last? The magic number for a furnace or boiler is 15 years. But keep in mind many old heating units operate at an efficiency of just 65 percent or less! A replacement that's been qualified with the Energy Star rating can be up to 30% more efficient, and that's a difference you'll notice in your home and your bank account.
4. Excessive Noise
If you have to raise your voice to talk because your unit is abnormally loud, that could be a indication that your duct system is undersized and too much air is being pushed through too small an opening.
Other noises like squealing, rattling, bumping, or banging could be signs of a mechanical matter. It could be as easy as a worn belt, but it may mean an internal component of your unit has loosened or come completely disconnected.
Today's latest systems operate more silently than ever. Often you'll have to really give attention to even know if they're running. If noise pollution is a concern for you, that may be reason enough to upgrade to more modern equipment.
5. Temperature and Comfort Issues
If you are having to constantly hike up the heating system to keep things in the house cozy, that should be a major warning that it's time to re-evaluate your furnace. There are several items that could cause this issue - it may be resolved with a new thermostat that allows you more control – so before you assume that you're in for a whole new heating system, give some thought to your thermostat.
6. Humidity Issues
In the winter, low humidity makes the air inside your home feel colder than it is, often tricking you into hiking up the temperature. Common issues when the humidity is too low are dry air, sore throats, and chapped skin. Improper humidity can even negatively impact hardwood floors and furniture. Today's best heating equipment helps to keep this important balance right where it should be, adding or removing moisture before it ever enters the HVAC unit.
7. Air Quality Issues
A number of issues that don't directly relate to temperature can be improved significantly with an expertly designed and properly installed heating system. If you are experiencing issues with household odors, airborne allergens, such as pollen or pet dander, mold, ozone, and even plain old dust, consulting an expert heating system contractor can start you on the road to fixing them.
So you do all your research and decide you do need a new heater, or you want to upgrade your furnace to green technology, replace your home's ductwork, or do a total overhaul of the entire system, call Rolf Griffin Service Experts today for a free, no-obligation Home Comfort Analysis.


text:
The Prettiest Jail Glimmers in Granite
FORT WORTH, Texas — Downtown Fort Worth is now home to the most ironic building in Tarrant County. Tabbed as "the prettiest jail in Texas with the cruelest people in it," the new, 207,700-square-foot, five-floor jail includes 444 maximum-security cells soon to house the county's "worst of the worst" inmates, yet the building is beautiful. It looks nothing like the high-tech lockup it is.
The Fort Worth business community was initially concerned that a jail downtown would not mix well with the high-rise residential properties and corporate headquarters already there. However, locating the jail in its particular location was essential to reduce the risks associated with transporting dangerous inmates. An underground tunnel and a sky bridge connect the new jail to the existing jail and courts in the Tarrant County Corrections Center and Tim Curry Criminal Justice Center, making the transport more secure.
Because of the controversy of constructing a new maximum security jail in a downtown location, the design of the building needed to mask its function. To achieve this, well-grounded masonry was used following the architectural tradition of civic buildings, evoking a sense of longevity and durability. The use of granite, in particular, brings this new building into the context of the downtown built environment.
Designed with energy efficient and green initiatives and to LEED standards, it is anticipated that the jail will be certified LEED Gold, becoming the municipality's fourth LEED-certified building. Tarrant County Facilities Management Director David Phillips believes it will be the first multi-story maximum-security jail to achieve that certification. In addition to the 444 maximum-security cells, the jail will also provide new medical facilities and a full kitchen that can prepare 16,500 meals a day for inmates at the new jail and the county's other correctional facilities. The jail cost was $83.2 million, which is less than originally expected.
Jail Design Challenges
One of the greatest tasks for architect of record Bennett Benner Pettit, design architect DMS Architectural Services, and construction manager Gilbane Building Co. was the unique design criterion of the facility, which needed to fulfill the maximum-security role while also remaining visually appealing in the downtown area.
Additional design challenges stemmed from the desire to not only meet, but exceed, the state jail requirements, particularly in mechanical and electrical systems, while still presenting a facility that does not resemble a jail from the exterior. Extensive coordination between trades was required for all elements of the project in order to accommodate the slender floor-to-floor height dictated by the masonry façade design, which used extensive cut stone materials in various finishes and profiles.
Prior to construction, the mechanical sub-contractor used Naviworks to create a 3-D model of the project, including all above-ceiling items. Although a few ceiling heights required adjustment, clashes with structural elements and other MEP items were virtually eliminated. Extensive stone detailing and conflict resolution analysis were used to coordinate the granite elements, particularly in the area of the heavy rusticated base materials.
On the heels of two other large, successfully completed projects with Cold Spring Granite, Tarrant County was able to bring the supplier in to the design phase for this project immediately. To meet the challenging design requirements, Bennett Benner Pettit, Tarrant County, and Gilbane Building Co. coordinated with Cold Spring Granite from day one with multiple meetings and conference calls to discuss design, colors and finishes.
Cold Spring Granite was preferred because of its expertise in working with unique and custom designs on substantial projects. Cold Spring Granite brought crucial coordination elements to the project through its engineering and drafting expertise, proficiency in fabricating, assistance with developing project details and finishes, as well as the coordination of color range and marking requirements.
"Because we were working to achieve LEED certification for the project, utilizing regional materials was important to the design," said Amanda Schulte, AIA, Associate, Bennett Benner Pettit. "Beyond the standard LEED requirements, the Tarrant County Commissioner's Court requested that we specify materials quarried and manufactured in Texas. Several granite options from throughout the United States had been considered, but none of the other options could compete with Cold Spring Granite in proximity to the project location. Utilizing the granite from Marble Falls enabled the seamless blending of the facility in the downtown context."
Designing Art Panels
To design and develop "art panels," Cold Spring Granite worked with Bennett Benner Pettit and DMS Architectural Services on a design that could be fabricated, and then developed the tooling to accomplish it.
"The graphic focuses of the art panels are the Texas Longhorn and the keys that outline each panel," said Jason Frank, Project Manager, Architectural Division, Cold Spring Granite. "Once the architect developed the overall design of the panels, our CNC technician developed programming, tooling and available finishes that could be used to create the design."
When the tooling was developed, a small sample was created that represented what the final panel design would look like. The sample was submitted to the design board and it approved Cold Spring Granite's process.
"The specified granite from Cold Spring Granite set the stage for subsequent material selection," said Schulte. "To coordinate with the pink tint of the granite, we selected a maroon brick and a pink-beige cast stone. The resulting building is well matched with the color schemes at other Tarrant County buildings downtown, and the wider downtown environment."
Material Selection
The final design of the art panels used Sunset Beige granite. The project called for a variety of finishes to create a unique texture including polished, thermal, rock pitch, and sanded. A total of 17,459 square feet /12,119 cubic feet of granite was used, equaling 4,511 pieces.
Cold Spring Granite worked with the architect to create the intended design while using the maximum amount of stone. "Everyone worked together to come up with a strategy on where and how we could use all the stone from the quarry. Certain elevations of the building allowed for more movement and variegation, maintaining the most efficient use of a natural resource," said Frank. The final result was a well thought out and beautifully designed structure.
Final Results
"From day one, the design team and contractors were concerned about schedule and completing the building on time," said Frank. "Open communication throughout the process ensured the granite was delivered on time and met the design specs."
This scheduling and communication between the various companies enabled all to work together and overcome the inherent location challenges, thus ensuring smooth installation of the granite.
"This project required full coordination, both in the design and construction phases," Schulte continued. "We were fortunate to team with many experienced and well qualified companies and individuals who all helped manage the complex challenges of constructing a jail in a downtown location. At the peak of construction, there were hundreds of tradesmen on the job working together cohesively without getting in each other's way. Strong relationships and teamwork were vital to the success of the project."