text:
|The White House
President George W. Bush
|Print this document
For Immediate Release
Office of the First Lady
March 13, 2006
Mrs. Bush's Remarks in Honor of the Visiting Guests from the Mothers to Mothers-To-Be Programme in Capetown, South Africa
The East Room
MRS. BUSH: Thank you, everyone. Thank you so much. (Applause.) Please be seated.
Distinguished guests, welcome to the White House. And welcome, mothers, to the United States of America.
There are two members of the diplomatic corps who are already with us. And we're expecting the Ambassador from South Africa. But I want to recognize Ambassador Andrew Daraja, from Tanzania, and Ambassador Zac Nsenga, from Rwanda. Where are they? Both of them. (Applause.)
I'm also pleased to recognize Congressman Chris Smith, from New Jersey, who has joined us today. Thank you very much, Congressman. (Applause.) Ambassador Randall Tobias, the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator and his wife, Marianne. Thank you, Ambassador. (Applause.)
Anne Veneman, the Executive Director of UNICEF. UNICEF is a partner in a number of projects that will work with children with AIDS around the world. Thank you very much, Anne. (Applause.)
Ambassador Jendyai Frazer, Secretary of State for African Affairs. Dr. Peter Piot, Executive Director of U.N. AIDS. Thank you, Dr. Piot. (Applause.) Dr. Mitch Besser, founder of the Mother's Program. Thank you so much, Dr. Besser. (Applause.)
And I also want to acknowledge and thank the State Department's International Visitor Program which is sponsoring this trip; also the many private sector foundations, NGOs, and many, many others who have pledged their time and resources to stop the spread of HIV and AIDS.
Last July, I had the privilege of visiting South Africa. And while I was there, I went to hospitals and centers where great work is being carried out in the fight against HIV and AIDS. The United States supports these efforts through the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, known as PEPFAR. And, of course, the United States is just one partner in this global effort.
One of the highlights of my trip last summer was meeting these mothers who are behind me today at the Mothers to Mothers-to-Be Project outside of Cape Town, South Africa, in a township close to Cape Town.
Mothers to Mothers-to-Be is implemented at local hospitals and clinics in townships, such as the one I visited, in South Africa. There, when mothers go for prenatal care they often discover after testing that they are HIV-positive. After diagnosis, they are paired with mentors -- other mothers who have been through the Mothers to Mothers-to-Be Programme and they are living successfully now on antiretroviral treatment.
Mother-mentors provide immediate comfort, hope and guidance at a critical time. They are living proof that women can enjoy long lives with HIV, and they can avoid transmitting HIV to their newborn babies.
Mothers to Mothers has several objectives: First, doctors treat HIV-positive women with life-saving medicine and help them stay on treatment throughout their pregnancies. Second, mothers achieve financial and personal independence through training and work opportunities. Third, mentors help mothers find the courage to reveal their HIV status to their loved ones, so they can get the help they need and overcome the stigma associated with HIV and AIDS. And finally, women use education to break the cycle of HIV transmission, so that South Africa's next generation will be HIV-free.
Some of the mothers told me their stories when I was there, and I wanted the people of America to hear their voices, as well, so I invited them to the White House. Today, we welcome our friends from South Africa. And we thank everyone who worked to make this visit possible.
This morning the mothers will begin a very full schedule, which includes a symposium at Georgetown University this afternoon; and continues through a week with visits to U.S. agencies and institutions involved in HIV and AIDS research, education, prevention, treatment, and care.
When I was in South Africa, I visited a Mothers-to-be clinic in a township called Khayelitsha, which means "new home".
South African women who are pregnant and HIV-positive have found a new home of sorts in the Mothers to Mothers-to-Be program at the Khayelitsha Maternity Unit. When I was there, I met the unit's senior site coordinator, Babalwa Mbono.
In 2002 she was married and pregnant with her second child when she learned that she was HIV positive. She learned how to manage her HIV infection with the help of Mothers to Mothers-to-Be, and she also managed to have a beautiful, healthy baby who is HIV-negative.
Today she uses her experience to help change the lives of HIV-positive mothers-to-be who seek comfort and courage during their pregnancies. Ladies and gentlemen, Babalwa Mbono. (Applause.)
* * * * *
MRS. BUSH: They were terrific. Now, everyone can see why I wanted them to come to the White House.
Ambassador from South Africa has just come in. Thank you very, very much for joining us this morning, Ambassador. (Applause.)
This is a morning for celebrating. We celebrate these voices. And we celebrate motherhood, and the bond that all mothers share. A mother's love is powerful, and the kinship between mothers is strong -- it transcends all geographic borders and physical boundaries.
I cherish the bond I have with other mothers. Our children mean the world to us, and that brings us together no matter where in the world we might live. As a mother, I know it must seem like the end of the world to learn that you have HIV or AIDS, and to think that your baby might be born with HIV, too.
Having your family devastated by AIDS might seem like a nightmare, but for too many people, it's a reality. Part of the problem is that because of the stigma of being HIV-positive, women don't seek the help they need. They face their disease silent, alone and afraid. But they don't have to be afraid. And they are not alone.
Mothers to Mothers helps mend hearts broken by a diagnosis of HIV infection. Pregnant women learn how to live well in spite of infection. Once they learn to live with HIV, they can fulfill their dreams of seeing their children grow up healthy and strong. The program helps break the stigma of HIV and AIDS by teaching, training and befriending the expectant mothers who have tested positive.
We know that HIV/AIDS is a crisis of epidemic proportion that hits African women and children the hardest. In South Africa alone, 370,000 people die from AIDS each year and millions of orphans are left behind.
Addressing the crisis is especially difficult in countries with little or no health infrastructure or education. Because of these challenges, people wait too long for diagnosis and treatment -- and children often suffer the most because if they're even on antiretrovirals, their rapid growth requires constant adjustments to the complicated dosing.
The need is great, but the goodwill of the world is greater. Thanks to the support many countries and organizations -- and with the help of PEPFAR seed money, Mothers to Mothers centers are sprouting up across Africa. They're building momentum and rebuilding lives.
Mothers who graduate from the program can become mentors themselves, and that's what all of these mothers are. And they're paid for the work that they do. Others learn the marketable skill of beading through a program called "Mothers Creations". They make purses and belts and cell phone holders and bookmarks that are sold on the international market. Most of the people on my staff wear their staff credentials on lanyards made by the mothers. And you can see other examples later today at the Georgetown symposium.
Thanks to the Mothers Programmes, women are literally earning their own independence. And independence is vital to defeating HIV and AIDS.
The United States is proud to support Mothers-to-Mothers and other effective programs. The President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief is a five-year, $15 billion-dollar initiative that supports prevention, treatment and care for people with HIV and AIDS, including children.
In the last two years, PEPFAR has provided $238.7 million to South Africa. The President's 2006 budget includes an additional $221.5 million. Mothers to Mothers benefits from this partnership, as do many other organizations.
In Tanzania, for example, I met a woman named Janet Saria, who has been living with HIV since 1990. Janet gets help from a faith-based social services agency in Dar especially Salaam called PASADA, which is a PEPFAR partner. Janet said, "PASADA has helped me come back to life."
Thanks to partnerships between PEPFAR and local organizations, thousands of women are coming back to life. They are learning how to live with HIV, rather than preparing to die from it. And they are giving life to healthy babies, free of HIV.
Today, I'm pleased to announce a new pediatric AIDS treatment initiative that will further our commitment. It's a groundbreaking and historic alliance. This partnership will promote better and more effective treatment for children living with HIV/AIDS.
The Unites States, multilateral organizations including UNAIDS and UNICEF, and innovator and generic pharmaceutical companies have agreed to contribute more and greater resources to the cause. Members of this alliance will identify scientific obstacles to treatment for children. They'll take practical steps to give parents and lay people simpler and safer antiretroviral medicines to use for children. They will share best practices in science and medicine. And they'll develop systems to speed up the review, the approval, the manufacturing and the availability of pediatric antiretroviral drugs.
Many of the partners in this alliance are here today. President Bush joins me in thanking you, and pledging our commitment to work with you to achieve the goal of an HIV-free generation.
I now have the pleasure of introducing a leader in our work to prevent and treat HIV/AIDS. Ambassador Randall Tobias is the United States Global AIDS Coordinator. He supervises all U.S. international HIV/AIDS assistance and coordinates efforts among U.S. agencies and departments that deliver assistance.
Last year Ambassador Tobias joined me on my trip to Africa. We witnessed the results of U.S. support for African leadership and saw the lives that are being saved because of our partnership.
In January, President Bush appointed Ambassador Tobias to be the first Director of Foreign Assistance for the U.S. Government, and also nominated him to lead the US Agency for International Development, USAID. We look forward to his Senate confirmation.
Ladies and Gentlemen, Ambassador Randall Tobias.
* * * * *
MRS. BUSH: Thank you very much, Ambassador Tobias.
In one of the most beautiful, poignant books of our time, Cry, the Beloved Country, South African author Alan Paton wrote, "Nothing is ever quiet except for fools."
President Bush and I salute the mothers on this stage for having the wisdom and the courage to speak and sing about their conditions and their country. Their voices give us hope and proof of progress in South Africa.
This gathering today, and this week-long exchange, will reinforce what many of us here today already know: And that is, the people of the United States are deeply concerned about the implications of HIV and AIDS around the world. We care about mothers and children everywhere. And we are honored to work with you to make a difference in their lives.
While these mothers and their organizations are here to learn from us, we have much to learn from their success, their optimism, and their courage.
On behalf of President Bush, thank you for coming. And may God bless mothers everywhere. (Applause.) The Ambassador from South Africa is here with us. (Applause.)
And now if everyone will join us for brunch in the Dining Room.


text:
Restaurant Maintenance
The Safer Way
Pureous TM is Different
PureousTM offers a complete line of powerfully effective and environmentally friendly cleaning products for Restaurant Cleaning and Maintenance. Our products are tested and proven Safe and Effective. An example is our most popular and versatile product, PureousTM Degreaser and Cleaner, which cleans, remediates, and repels dirt, grease, and grime without exposing people to toxins, harsh chemicals, allergens, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs). None of our products contain toxins or harsh chemicals. Intended for commercial applications and use by professionals, these products are only available in concentrate. No frills. No Mess. No odors. No dangerous, toxic, or harmful chemicals.
Most cleaning, remediation and odor products are worse than the problems they try to solve. PureousTM Products are proven to be more effective than the competition, safer for the environment and healthier for people and animals. Using PureousTM Products actively improves indoor air quality.Unlike other cleaning, remediation and odor elimination products PureousTM patented and proprietary products are proven effective without exposing people to toxins, harsh chemicals, allergens or volatile organic compounds (VOCs). PureousTM uses a revolutionary technology that produces ZERO VOCs and has been proven to be more effective than the competition and safer for people, animals and the environment. This innovative technology is also cost-effective allowing for better, more efficient cleaning that becomes easier and requires less product over time.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
The Rights of Man
by Thomas Paine
Applying Principle to Practice, Chapter 5 - Ways and Means of Improving the Condition of Europe Interspersed with Miscellaneous Observations, Part 3 of 8
Several of the most heavy and productive taxes are so contrived, as to give an exemption to this pillar, thus standing in its own defence. The tax upon beer brewed for sale does not affect the aristocracy, who brew their own beer free from this duty. It falls only on those who have not conveniency or ability to brew, and who must purchase it in small quantities. But what will mankind think of the justice of taxation, when they know that this tax alone, from which the aristocracy are from circumstances exempt, is nearly equal to the whole of the land-tax, being in the year 1788, and it is not less now, £1,666,152, and with its proportion of the taxes on malt and hops, it exceeds it. — That a single article, thus partially consumed, and that chiefly by the working part, should be subject to a tax, equal to that on the whole rental of a nation, is, perhaps, a fact not to be paralleled in the histories of revenues.
This is one of the circumstances resulting from a house of legislation, composed on the ground of a combination of common interest; for whatever their separate politics as to parties may be, in this they are united. Whether a combination acts to raise the price of any article for sale, or rate of wages; or whether it acts to throw taxes from itself upon another class of the community, the principle and the effect are the same; and if the one be illegal, it will be difficult to show that the other ought to exist.
It is no use to say that taxes are first proposed in the House of Commons; for as the other house has always a negative, it can always defend itself; and it would be ridiculous to suppose that its acquiescence in the measures to be proposed were not understood before hand. Besides which, it has obtained so much influence by borough-traffic, and so many of its relations and connections are distributed on both sides the commons, as to give it, besides an absolute negative in one house, a preponderancy in the other, in all matters of common concern.
It is difficult to discover what is meant by the landed interest, if it does not mean a combination of aristocratical landholders, opposing their own pecuniary interest to that of the farmer, and every branch of trade, commerce, and manufacture. In all other respects it is the only interest that needs no partial protection. It enjoys the general protection of the world. Every individual, high or low, is interested in the fruits of the earth; men, women, and children, of all ages and degrees, will turn out to assist the farmer, rather than a harvest should not be got in; and they will not act thus by any other property. It is the only one for which the common prayer of mankind is put up, and the only one that can never fail from the want of means. It is the interest, not of the policy, but of the existence of man, and when it ceases, he must cease to be.
No other interest in a nation stands on the same united support. Commerce, manufactures, arts, sciences, and everything else, compared with this, are supported but in parts. Their prosperity or their decay has not the same universal influence. When the valleys laugh and sing, it is not the farmer only, but all creation that rejoice. It is a prosperity that excludes all envy; and this cannot be said of anything else.
Why then, does Mr. Burke talk of his house of peers as the pillar of the landed interest? Were that pillar to sink into the earth, the same landed property would continue, and the same ploughing, sowing, and reaping would go on. The aristocracy are not the farmers who work the land, and raise the produce, but are the mere consumers of the rent; and when compared with the active world are the drones, a seraglio of males, who neither collect the honey nor form the hive, but exist only for lazy enjoyment.
Mr. Burke, in his first essay, called aristocracy "the Corinthian capital of polished society." Towards completing the figure, he has now added the pillar; but still the base is wanting; and whenever a nation choose to act a Samson, not blind, but bold, down will go the temple of Dagon, the Lords and the Philistines.
If a house of legislation is to be composed of men of one class, for the purpose of protecting a distinct interest, all the other interests should have the same. The inequality, as well as the burthen of taxation, arises from admitting it in one case, and not in all. Had there been a house of farmers, there had been no game laws; or a house of merchants and manufacturers, the taxes had neither been so unequal nor so excessive. It is from the power of taxation being in the hands of those who can throw so great a part of it from their own shoulders, that it has raged without a check.
Men of small or moderate estates are more injured by the taxes being thrown on articles of consumption, than they are eased by warding it from landed property, for the following reasons:
First, They consume more of the productive taxable articles, in proportion to their property, than those of large estates.
Secondly, Their residence is chiefly in towns, and their property in houses; and the increase of the poor-rates, occasioned by taxes on consumption, is in much greater proportion than the land-tax has been favoured. In Birmingham, the poor-rates are not less than seven shillings in the pound. From this, as is already observed, the aristocracy are in a great measure exempt.
These are but a part of the mischiefs flowing from the wretched scheme of an house of peers.
As a combination, it can always throw a considerable portion of taxes from itself; and as an hereditary house, accountable to nobody, it resembles a rotten borough, whose consent is to be courted by interest. There are but few of its members, who are not in some mode or other participators, or disposers of the public money. One turns a candle-holder, or a lord in waiting; another a lord of the bed-chamber, a groom of the stole, or any insignificant nominal office to which a salary is annexed, paid out of the public taxes, and which avoids the direct appearance of corruption. Such situations are derogatory to the character of man; and where they can be submitted to, honour cannot reside.
To all these are to be added the numerous dependants, the long list of younger branches and distant relations, who are to be provided for at the public expense: in short, were an estimation to be made of the charge of aristocracy to a nation, it will be found nearly equal to that of supporting the poor. The Duke of Richmond alone (and there are cases similar to his) takes away as much for himself as would maintain two thousand poor and aged persons. Is it, then, any wonder, that under such a system of government, taxes and rates have multiplied to their present extent?
In stating these matters, I speak an open and disinterested language, dictated by no passion but that of humanity. To me, who have not only refused offers, because I thought them improper, but have declined rewards I might with reputation have accepted, it is no wonder that meanness and imposition appear disgustful. Independence is my happiness, and I view things as they are, without regard to place or person; my country is the world, and my religion is to do good.
Mr. Burke, in speaking of the aristocratical law of primogeniture, says, "it is the standing law of our landed inheritance; and which, without question, has a tendency, and I think," continues he, "a happy tendency, to preserve a character of weight and consequence."
Mr. Burke may call this law what he pleases, but humanity and impartial reflection will denounce it as a law of brutal injustice. Were we not accustomed to the daily practice, and did we only hear of it as the law of some distant part of the world, we should conclude that the legislators of such countries had not arrived at a state of civilisation.
As to its preserving a character of weight and consequence, the case appears to me directly the reverse. It is an attaint upon character; a sort of privateering on family property. It may have weight among dependent tenants, but it gives none on a scale of national, and much less of universal character. Speaking for myself, my parents were not able to give me a shilling, beyond what they gave me in education; and to do this they distressed themselves: yet, I possess more of what is called consequence, in the world, than any one in Mr. Burke's catalogue of aristocrats.
Having thus glanced at some of the defects of the two houses of parliament, I proceed to what is called the crown, upon which I shall be very concise.
It signifies a nominal office of a million sterling a year, the business of which consists in receiving the money. Whether the person be wise or foolish, sane or insane, a native or a foreigner, matters not. Every ministry acts upon the same idea that Mr. Burke writes, namely, that the people must be hood-winked, and held in superstitious ignorance by some bugbear or other; and what is called the crown answers this purpose, and therefore it answers all the purposes to be expected from it. This is more than can be said of the other two branches.
The hazard to which this office is exposed in all countries, is not from anything that can happen to the man, but from what may happen to the nation — the danger of its coming to its senses.
It has been customary to call the crown the executive power, and the custom is continued, though the reason has ceased.
It was called the executive, because the person whom it signified used, formerly, to act in the character of a judge, in administering or executing the laws. The tribunals were then a part of the court. The power, therefore, which is now called the judicial, is what was called the executive and, consequently, one or other of the terms is redundant, and one of the offices useless. When we speak of the crown now, it means nothing; it signifies neither a judge nor a general: besides which it is the laws that govern, and not the man. The old terms are kept up, to give an appearance of consequence to empty forms; and the only effect they have is that of increasing expenses.
Before I proceed to the means of rendering governments more conducive to the general happiness of mankind, than they are at present, it will not be improper to take a review of the progress of taxation in England.
It is a general idea, that when taxes are once laid on, they are never taken off. However true this may have been of late, it was not always so. Either, therefore, the people of former times were more watchful over government than those of the present, or government was administered with less extravagance.
It is now seven hundred years since the Norman conquest, and the establishment of what is called the crown. Taking this portion of time in seven separate periods of one hundred years each, the amount of the annual taxes, at each period, will be as follows:
Annual taxes levied by William the Conqueror,
|beginning in the year 1066
|Annual taxes at 100 years from the conquest (1166)
|Annual taxes at 200 years from the conquest (1266)
|Annual taxes at 300 years from the conquest (1366)
|Annual taxes at 400 years from the conquest (1466)
These statements and those which follow, are taken from Sir John Sinclair's History of the Revenue; by which it appears, that taxes continued decreasing for four hundred years, at the expiration of which time they were reduced three-fourths, viz., from four hundred thousand pounds to one hundred thousand. The people of England of the present day, have a traditionary and historical idea of the bravery of their ancestors; but whatever their virtues or their vices might have been, they certainly were a people who would not be imposed upon, and who kept governments in awe as to taxation, if not as to principle. Though they were not able to expel the monarchical usurpation, they restricted it to a republican economy of taxes. Let us now review the remaining three hundred years:
Annual amount of taxes at:
|500 years from the conquest (1566)
|600 years from the conquest (1666)
|the present time (1791)
The difference between the first four hundred years and the last three, is so astonishing, as to warrant an opinion, that the national character of the English has changed. It would have been impossible to have dragooned the former English, into the excess of taxation that now exists; and when it is considered that the pay of the army, the navy, and of all the revenue officers, is the same now as it was about a hundred years ago, when the taxes were not above a tenth part of what they are at present, it appears impossible to account for the enormous increase and expenditure on any other ground, than extravagance, corruption, and intrigue. [NOTE]
With the Revolution of 1688, and more so since the Hanover succession, came the destructive system of continental intrigues, and the rage for foreign wars and foreign dominion; systems of such secure mystery that the expenses admit of no accounts; a single line stands for millions. To what excess taxation might have extended had not the French revolution contributed to break up the system, and put an end to pretences, is impossible to say. Viewed, as that revolution ought to be, as the fortunate means of lessening the load of taxes of both countries, it is of as much importance to England as to France; and, if properly improved to all the advantages of which it is capable, and to which it leads, deserves as much celebration in one country as the other.
Several of the court newspapers have of late made frequent mention of Wat Tyler. That his memory should be traduced by court sycophants and an those who live on the spoil of a public is not to be wondered at. He was, however, the means of checking the rage and injustice of taxation in his time, and the nation owed much to his valour. The history is concisely this:- In the time of Richard II. a poll tax was levied of one shilling per head upon every person in the nation of whatever estate or condition, on poor as well as rich, above the age of fifteen years. If any favour was shown in the law it was to the rich rather than to the poor, as no person could be charged more than twenty shillings for himself, family and servants, though ever so numerous; while all other families, under the number of twenty were charged per head. Poll taxes had always been odious, but this being also oppressive and unjust, it excited as it naturally must, universal detestation among the poor and middle classes. The person known by the name of Wat Tyler, whose proper name was Walter, and a tiler by trade, lived at Deptford. The gatherer of the poll tax, on coming to his house, demanded tax for one of his daughters, whom Tyler declared was under the age of fifteen. The tax-gatherer insisted on satisfying himself, and began an indecent examination of the girl, which, enraging the father, he struck him with a hammer that brought him to the ground, and was the cause of his death. This circumstance served to bring the discontent to an issue. The inhabitants of the neighbourhood espoused the cause of Tyler, who in a few days was joined, according to some histories, by upwards of fifty thousand men, and chosen their chief. With this force he marched to London, to demand an abolition of the tax and a redress of other grievances. The Court, finding itself in a forlorn condition, and, unable to make resistance, agreed, with Richard at its head, to hold a conference with Tyler in Smithfield, making many fair professions, courtier-like, of its dispositions to redress the oppressions. While Richard and Tyler were in conversation on these matters, each being on horseback, Walworth, then Mayor of London, and one of the creatures of the Court, watched an opportunity, and like a cowardly assassin, stabbed Tyler with a dagger, and two or three others falling upon him, he was instantly sacrificed. Tyler appears to have been an intrepid disinterested man with respect to himself. All his proposals made to Richard were on a more just and public ground than those which had been made to John by the Barons, and notwithstanding the sycophancy of historians and men like Mr. Burke, who seek to gloss over a base action of the Court by traducing Tyler, his fame will outlive their falsehood. If the Barons merited a monument to be erected at Runnymede, Tyler merited one in Smithfield.Back to text


text:
MotoMatters.com is delighted to feature the work of iconic MotoGP writer Mat Oxley. Oxley is a former racer, TT winner and highly respected author of biographies of world champions Mick Doohan and Valentino Rossi, and currently writes for Motor Sport Magazine, where he is MotoGP correspondent. We are featuring sections from Oxley's blogs, which are posted in full on the Motor Sport Magazine website.
Inside the mind of Casey Stoner
I spent some of the festive break reading Casey Stoner's autobiography, Pushing the Limits. It's an enjoyable book and should be required reading for any aspiring kid racer (presuming they've been off the bike long enough to learn to read) and for any parents of same.
Stoner's abilities and his success confirm the verity of the 10,000 hour rule which suggests that's the minimum amount of time you need to spend doing any pursuit if you want to be world-beating good at it. In other words, there are no short cuts on the way to the top – it's just work, work and more work.
The young Casey Stoner
As a kid, Stoner did pretty much nothing except ride bikes. And the struggles through which his family went to ensure that he kept climbing the ladder make for uncomfortable reading, especially if you're a parent. Would you go to the same ends? I'm not sure I would.
As is usual in autobiographies (at least, in my opinion), it's the childhood years that are the most fascinating. You get to fully understand why Stoner was the way he was when he was racing Grands Prix. After that, there's plenty of interesting stories you won't have heard before and he also manages to settle a few scores, because, after all, that's half the point of writing an autobiography.
Among those who get it in the neck are Michelin, who he says didn't look after him so well when he graduated to MotoGP in 2006, and Randy Mamola, who was briefly involved in managing his career.
Perhaps the most illuminating part of the book is the tale of his very first race, as a four-year-old, at Hatcher's dirt track on the Gold Coast. As Stoner lines up at the start aboard his PW50, he starts to cry. There are harsh looks from other parents and race officials, all of them no doubt jumping to the conclusion that Stoner's mum and dad are the kind of desperate racing parents who force their kids into doing something they really don't want to do.
In fact Stoner is shedding tears for a different reason – he is upset because people are looking at him. Born and bred in the middle of nowhere, he's not used to all the attention and he hates it. A few years later he was bullied at school, so his parents took him out and home-schooled him, further divorcing him from the rough and tumble of normal life.
Read the rest of Mat Oxley's blog on the Motor Sport Magazine website.
Great read
I always like learning about my favorite (ex) rider. Casey always seemed like an enigma so when you can learn more about his psyche (I guess) its really interesting. I'll have to pick up his book
I knew he hated it
I remember Nick Harris commenting that he seemed almost apologetic for winning. It was easy to see that he didn't like all the PR fuss that comes with it.
the difference between us and them...
"A few years later he was bullied at school, so his parents took him out and home-schooled him, further divorcing him from the rough and tumble of normal life."
In reply to the difference between us and them... by spokes100
The only difference
is Stoners unbelievably committed parents and Stoners talent. They weren't rich by any means, and to have Casey race in the most competitive series his family had to move to new towns. Stoner was small and shy as a kid as well so he was bullied a lot and had trouble making friends. I have a lot of empathy for him after reading his book.
Casey's Book
I read Casey's book. It really offers an honest insight into his thinking, what it was like growing up in the grands prix, and all that jazz. It was a poorly written book, but that's not really the goal of the book. He tells you what you want to know in his voice. His criticisms of things he didn't enjoy in his racing days are consistent and honest; he really doesn't flip-flop on his opinions at all. At the end of the day, the book really convinced me that Casey was truly a guy who just loved riding a motorbike and that was it. He didn't desire anything more than that and was chastised for not enjoying the spotlight, unfortunately.
Hindsight is 20/20
Quite simply his career is one that by could only be appreciated fully in hindsight. Like a great artist who must pass on before their work can appreciated.
And that's why people will still be talking CS long after his ability to score points on track have past, as he's just finally starting to score points with the fans at large.
Charisma or courage?
The PR skills of most sportsmen aren't worth very much - the post-race interviews with charisma-laden superstars like Rossi, Lorenzo and Marquez are hardly riveting entertainment. Stoner's plain spoken style was just as informative - perhaps even more so than the 'personalities'.
It was always a thrill to watch his courage and skill. I particularly admired him when he humbled the two Japanese corporate behemoths with his controlled aggression on that beast of a Ducati - and my admiration survived his move to Honda. These two-wheel artists do their real magic on the machines - the rest is either ego or PR fluff to sell merchandise. I know my preference.
The Donington crowd behaved like ignorant rabble and embarrassed themselves. I hope he'll return - but this article helps me understand why he may not. Bon voyage from a Pom.
Good article from Mat
Casey's book is, as you might imagine, not the wordiest of pieces but he gets his opinions across very well and the section on Michelin in 2006 is rather interesting [and maybe worth a check of the results to investigate].
It is fairly telling that he starts talking about racing aged 4 and other than Chaz and Leon Camier never really mentions friends much - he was never in racing to be popular, it was simply his calling and he got what he wanted out of it. The fact that he started disageeing with the politics of the sport aged around NINE says a lot too.
Whatever you think of Casey, part of what has made his era interesting is the differences in personality between the riders, which we should be celebrating.
In reply to Good article from Mat by patnicholls
The Michelin stuff
Isn't really in doubt. It was already known that 'factory' Michelin riders got the better tyres - Casey just illuminated more about how the process worked. And I'm not surprised about his anti establishment standpoint given how his junior road race license was rejected without any reason given whatsoever!
what i want to see is
when rossi retires yamaha gives stoner a contract. i want to see what stoner is capable of. but that wil never happen
In reply to what i want to see is by yogi bear
You want to see what Stoner
You want to see what Stoner is capable of? Have you been watching him racing with your eyes closed? He made the Ducati look like a fast bike and embarrassed both Honda and Yamaha by beating them with it. Then moved to Honda and won a world championship. Does that not tell you what he is capable of?
"Sure, Stoner wasn't the
"Sure, Stoner wasn't the ideal ambassador for the sport, but who cares? One of the most important things in life is to know yourself and to be yourself. Do we really want every rider to give himself a PR work-over, learning to always say the right thing and always smile at the camera? I know I don't. I just want riders to race like their lives depend on it and then to be themselves, for better or for worse."
Perfect. I want racers to amaze me with their skills on the track, not entertain me with their antics off of it.
It is interesting so many are quick to applaud Jeremy Burgess for his honesty and straight talking bur chastise Stoner for essentially doing the same.
(Not a new thought but on worth repeating!)
Each to their own.
When you're best at controlling a motorbike, better than just about anyone else, you shouldn't be expected to be brilliant at controlling other things. Least of all the unruly, selfish and self serving media.
Riders are (hopefully) primarily hired as racing talent. If it turns out they're not also capable of dealing with the media, doing public relations for their team and the sport, and acting as walking advertisements for everything under the sun, then that's a problem the brands and the sport need to deal with, not blame the rider for. The riders cannot be expected to be experts in public relations, but the brands can and should be expected to not only know the market and media, but also their riding talent's personality and character. As should Dorna, a promotions and marketing company seemingly constantly involved in the lives of those racing in MotoGP.
Talent should be respected, and revered, as it is. Those seeking to benefit from the entertainment values of motor racing seem to understand this. Those seeking to sell things through the entertainment values of it - not so much.
An inability to control media is a redeeming quality. Especially when due to an honest and forthright approach to the singular talent of riding a bike better than anyone else. It shows a clear concern for more important matters than reciprocating the fawning of a captive media.
Ducati, Dorna and the sponsors must take some credit for messing up Stoner's image and public identity. They are specialists in dealing with their captive media, one would hope, and therefore should make every effort to provide the best outlook upon their main talents, not exhaust and/or expose them through thankless, needless and never ending media obligations.
If a racer is shy, let him be shy. If he's outspoken, an entertainer, or naturally exuberant nobody is going to stop that, so why try to prevent or admonish someone for being shy? It's ridiculous that the media and marketing arms of these brands have put any blame on this young man for his forthright and honest attempts at meeting the ludicrous levels of appearances and media opportunities they're obliged to fulfil.
However it's become fashionable to place not only the exposure and media obligation on athletes, but also their image control and media persona. This is nonsensical because these guys are focused on being the best at what they can control (bikes, in the case of Stoner) and should not be asked to pretend or even attempt to control the media and their image, unless they're also gifted in that area.
Just because we've been witness to someone using entertainment as a tool (Rossi) does not mean we should expect that from all riders. It is more than enough to just be great on a bike.
Over at the source blog on MotorSportsMagazine there's some rather odd crap about his state of mental health in the comments, and I wrote something akin to a defence of the right to be whoever you are, despite media obligations. It's been pulled/deleted, hence this drivel going up here. Sorry, but I strongly feel we should push much of the responsibility for the creation of onerous media obligations back onto the brands trying so hard to both curtail the incomes of these guys at the same time as using them to pimp everything they can.
These are brands absolutely expert in marketing and image. If they hire a great racer and then don't properly shepherd him from media inappropriate to his innate personality then the fault and failings lay with the brand. It's not the rider's responsibility to change his character or otherwise pretend something he's uncomfortable with because he's gotta face others at full throttle on a track. That's more than enough of a test of character.
In reply to Each to their own. by deeds
that was a great comment
That was a great comment. I believe Stoner was hung out to dry a bit by the media and i dont think Dorna did much to stop that as it felt like they needed a villain to balance against thier golden goose. Ive heard many other riders say the same things Stoner had said but never get pilloried any where near as much.
Thanks for your opinion.
yes and no
I can kinda see both sides of this argument but the overriding factor to me is this: why did any of the media/political/fan based stuff come as a suprise to Stoner and his family? They knew full well what they were heading into, expected to be paid very well for it yet all of a sudden they don't like certain aspects that have been part and parcel of Grand Prix racing for the better part of 50 years?
There is an old philosophy that the development of the world is dependent on unreasonable people: the reasonable person adapts to the world around them whereas the unreasonable person refuses to adapt forcing the world to adapt to them. Stoner, however nice a guy he may be away from the track, is one of those unreasonable people, but unfortunately he found that MotoGP would not adapt hence he had no mental option other than to take his bat and ball and head home.
If Stoner really wanted to simply race and retire to a trackside bubble with no media/sponsor/fan obligations why did he get so upset when he learned that Ducati were courting Lorenzo back in 2009? Seriously, if Lorenzo was willing to embrace those obligations he SHOULD have been paid more.
I feel for Stoner, he's not a wanker, but he very much reminds me of the folks who move into a house next to a race track then complain about the noise: what the hell did you expect?!
In reply to yes and no by Seven4nineR
Knowing what they were getting into
When Stoner and his family were looking at getting into motogp it wasnt based on all the media based bull that goes on these days. Doohan was king and he never changed his personality to suit any media requests. It was only after certain people started using the media to thier advantage to create an image that it somehow became an unwritten requirement for all riders to follow suit. Stoner just wanted to ride and felt fairly enough that it should be about the best rider, not who can blow fake kisses at cameras etc. A lot of people agree with Stoner on this point and a lot dont.
Stoner was upset at Ducati offering Lorenzo money to ride for them because he felt they were disloyal to him after years of him sticking with them despite them telling him they had no money for development, or to pay him extra after winning the world championship for them. I'm sure if your work offered your rival more money than you to do the job you have been doing behind your back you'd feel the same.
Your analogy is incorrect imo. Stoner didnt move in next to a race track and complain about the noise, he moved next to a race track and expected to see racing, but got personality contests instead. ;)
In reply to Knowing what they were getting into by maddlad
You have a short memory
I have a swag of old VCR tapes and one happens to be a certain Freddie Spencer besting Kenny Roberts back in 1983. The racing footage is terrible but there are a heap of interviews including one Barry Sheene who played the media game better than any court jester in the 40 years since.
And you are correct in saying Stoner grew up with Doohan racing....along with Gardner, Beattie, Magee, Corser, Bayliss, McCoy etc many of whom were true superstars Downunder and around the globe. They never blew the camera a single kiss let alone a fake one, and neither do/have 99% of the racers on the grid. He also raced in racing rabid Spain, saw the Rossi/Biaggi soap opera unfold, Rossi/Gibernau mind games etc etc.
So I'm afraid it's rather fantastical to think that Stoner somehow did not know what he was getting into, or that the situation has dramatically changed in recent years, it hasn't. He's also had plenty of straight talking Aussie racing role models who were still great ambassadors for their teams and sponsors.
Stoner and Ducati? Given Stoners history of poor communication I'm not suprised Ducati looked for an alternative if Stoner failed to keep them in the loop and simply assumed they'd understand a situation he himself did not. Unless we know exactly how it unfolded and what was said or not said I'm not prepared to apportion blame, but chances are BOTH parties could have handled it better.
To say "Stoner just wants to ride" is like saying the "Rolling Stones just want to play music", it's just wrong. If that were the case the Stoners would never have left Oz and the Stone's would have never moved on from the basement jam sessions. Both craved a lot more and it's case of that old saying: be careful what you wish for.
As I said, I've nothing against Stoner, he's probably a great kid away from the spotlight, but I am staggered at how unprepared and unsuited he was for the role he chose. But maybe I shouldn't be, it doesn't sound like he had many alternative options........
In reply to You have a short memory by Seven4nineR
Barry & co
Barry Sheene was just himself, and that was a funny guy. He didnt plan fake celebrations or say one thing and do another.
You have made my point, those racing legends you listed never blew kisses at the camera or made fake smiles, however if you watch the current motogp grid walks, a majority of the grid now make childlike faces and wave at the camera like its the required thing. Its very rare to see someone sitting there just focused on the racetrack anymore. Its funny how there's always one common denominator in the soap operas you describe from previous years. ;)
Media committments may be a part of todays racing but its almost become a bigger focus than what they are there to do, which is race and win. I think that is sad.
Some people like that, but some people dont, and i would much rather see Dorna put a straight talking racer who can wring the neck out of a motorbike and go faster than anyone else on the grid, over a puppet who can ride ok but is great at making faces. Thats just how i feel and there are many others who feel the same way. Imagine how much trouble Kenny Roberts snr would get in todays age of precious personalities...
I'm not sure how you get that Stoner has a poor history of communication. He either gets lambasted for saying too much and called a moaner (by saying what most other riders say but apparently the wrong way) or he doesnt say enough, you cant have it both ways. He said himself at the time they didnt know what the cause of his illness was, hence the time off to fix it and be able to give his maximum for his employer and so as not to be a liability to the other riders on track. He talks about this more in his book (which is what this topic is about), and he explains what they did to try and find the cause of his illness.
I'm in the music industry and have been for over 30 years and there are plenty of musicians who didnt do it for public adoration, just because they loved creating music, so thats another strange analogy. The Stoners left Oz to give Casey a chance of being world champion in Motogp, sure that means people will know who he was but they didnt do it with the goal of him being a media personality, they did it to give him a chance to be the best at what he loved, which was riding bikes.
In the end it shouldnt matter what anyone is like in the spotlight imo, just that they are the best motorbike riders in the world as its the motogp championship, not the personality championship.
In reply to You have a short memory by Seven4nineR
When media claim poor communication, it's a joke, right?
Stoner's mystery illness was a pivotal point in this young man's development and likely creates some interesting dynamics between himself and the twin frameworks of his life of the time - Ducati and Dorna. Both Ducati and Dorna have teams of professional communicators, media handlers, marketing departments, promotors and public relations experts at their disposal yet fail to communicate well with him, or on his behalf, while he's got a mystery illness that inhibits his riding on both their behalves.
And Stoner is the bad communicator?
That's the epitome of throwing stones in a glass house.
Stoner is certainly articulate with a microphone, and insightful, honest and often painfully forthright. All hallmarks of good communication and any contention otherwise reflects on the listener, not the speaker.
Stoner's "poor communication" is not something we can know first hand. It's only referenced in media, by muppets captivated by their access and relationships with the teams and sport. Anecdotal, at best.
Honda has encouraged him to come out and do testing in his years off. For his input, that which he is sought after in terms of communication. Clearly his ability to communicate what really matters (bike-rider relationship) is excellent. So much so that Honda offers him whatever it takes to get him away from fishing and family.
The focus, in the entire issue of Stoner's life with MotoGP, should be more on Ducati, Dorna and their captive media (and its attendant muppets) rather than just one young man who excelled at his job. Stoner played his part of riding a frustrating and limited bike better than others on better bikes at the top of their game. He won.
When a mystery illness strikes a young man and he tries to find the cause of it, and is likely more concerned about it than all of Dorna and Ducati combined because he's the only one personally impacted, the motorcycle media blames Stoner for poor communication.
The guy is struggling to find out what's wrong with himself, and unknowingly poisoning himself with milk based proteins in powdered "health" products. So he's getting "the right" nutrients, but is getting worse, and surely that's only casting more doubt within himself about his body and illness. Ducati has hired an elite rider and yet can't find an elite Doctor to take care of him, and blames the rider? Dorna is responsible for all riders in MotoGP and can't find a way to assist?
In most things the 80/20 rule works. But at the pointy end of any endeavour the 20% becomes the ground of outcome determinants and the 80% initial effort can be assumed. Ducati seem uninterested in the 20% extra required for brilliance. Ducati also didn't appreciate or understand the resolute perseverance of Stoner filling their gap in bike development/commitment with pure talent.
We have personal testimony from both Rossi and Stoner (and subsequently, Hayden) that Ducati wasn't good at listening or understanding the requirements of bettering the bike. We've since found out that this was a real and very fundamental problem within Ducati. So Ducati ignores the two best riders at the top of their game in terms of bike performance and direction. That's not only poor communication (not listening to those you should) but also incredibly stupid, and an enormous waste of talent and resources.
This year Ducati is apparently turning all that around, and upside down, and going to correct all their fundamental errors in bike development, and possibly consider being guinea pigs for the Dorna software.
Just how closely linked are Dorna and Ducati? Anyone even gazed at this question?
In reply to When media claim poor communication, it's a joke, right? by deeds
Great comment.
Stoner's only sin was to have
Stoner's only sin was to have the audacity to beat Valentino Rossi. The media wanted a villain and that's what they made him. The "football" mentality sorted out the rest. I can't recall any other rider getting bashed on a more regular basis than what this kid has. He goes through all this and people wonder why he doesn't like the media and all of the attention? What is even more ironic is that it wasn't until Rossi threw his leg over the Ducati before a majority of the sports writing world realized how talented this kid really was. At that point it was more than likely too little too late.
The media, much like Ducati, blamed him when things went bad and credited the bike when things went good. How would you feel?
You have to wonder
that Casey Stoner was incredibly, unbelievably shy as a young lad, but still had the fire burning inside to line up on the grid against other racers. I'm looking forward to reading the book, just having ordered it.
Don't the MotoGP teams send their riders to some sort of "media school" where they are prepped to handle media obligations? I believe the F1 teams do this on a regular basis. Perhaps in F1 it's even an intra-team ongoing thing. Most of the Grand Prix riders are younger than the F1 drivers, which probably makes it even more important.
Also, many, if not most major sponsors require a "return" on their investment, which often includes a rider's time.


text:
EAST VILLE HOEDOWN ON SATURDAY, August 16, 2014
Hot damn I know where I will be at this Saturday! That's right folks, they are doing it AGAIN! Not too long ago there was a rompin' stompin' good time at East Ville de Folies and East Ville des Carnivale events. After the rip-roaring success of the last East Ville event, Webster Hall will host its 1st annual Beer, Whiskey, Moonshine, Bacon and BBQ event – called East Ville Hoedown. The countrified event is scheduled to take place on August 16, 2014 encompassing all four floors of Webster Hall!
Now, I am the type of guy that enjoys a cold beer. Listens to live bands. Kicks back with a tasty whiskey now and then. Has partaken in a shot of moonshine or two. Of course, I love my bacon and BBQ! Yet, who has time to stroll out to the country? So, these good folks decided to bring the country to the city! It will feature your favorite Americana beers, the best whiskeys, bourbons and white lightning Kentucky and Tennessee has to offer. The event will also enable consumers to taste bacon in ways you never imagined along with mouthwatering BBQ. Hot dang! I am already drooling as I am typing this! Bacon!
Over 1,500 guests will have the opportunity to sip and swig delicious libations from moonshine and bourbon distilleries, while nibblin' their way through tasty Southern treats featuring the former Pit-Master Michael Rodriguez from the world famous Salt Lick in Austin, Texas. After taking some liquid inspiration, put your dancin' boots on for funky rhythms from fantastic bluegrass bands and Webster Hall's own interpretation of old country standards. Heck yeah! There will even be a countrified David Lee Roth era Van Halen tribute band rocking the house – Van Hayride. Hot For Teacher!
Be sure to take a ride on the mechanical bull photo booth and take home your souvenir drinking boot! Sounds like a terrific way to spend a Saturday afternoon to me.
- $50 – Includes sampling of Americana beers and bacon inspired Moonshine and whiskey cocktails.
- Featuring Bacon inspired dishes and desserts, BBQ dishes from former Pit-Master, Michael Rodriguez, from Salt Lick.
Want to get discounted tickets to the Hoedown? Use the code WEBSTERHALL and mosey on in for only $35!
Event Details:
Saturday, August 16th, 2014
For the latest on East Ville Hoedown and information on previous East Ville events:


text:
Illusory SpectrumPublished 11 years, 4 months past
I know, I know, this is undoubtedly a widely known optical illusion, but I had to create and share my own version after stumbling across it in the wild. Watch the animation cycle through all four frames, 2.5 seconds per frame. Notice anything different about the spectrum when it flips from green as opposed to when it flips from gray?
The spectrum and greenish frames image are derived from Project Octant Part 13: Bug Hunt, which is where I saw this effect thanks to the Page Up key and the browser window being just the right height. I hope Shamus won't be too irked that I swiped copies to repurpose here.


text:
The Apple Watch will ship in April, CEO Tim Cook said on Tuesday, ending speculation about when Apple will release its first new category of product in more than four years.
Rumors about the release date have swirled ever since the device was shown in September. At that time, Apple said the smartwatch would ship in early 2015. It has yet to reveal a few key details about the product, such as its battery life.
Cook revealed the ship date during a conference call to discuss Apple's earnings, which sailed past expectations. Sales of iPhones and Macs helped its revenue soar to $74.6 billion for the quarter ended Dec. 27, up from $57.6 billion a year earlier.
iPhone sales came in at a record 74.5 million units and provided more than two-thirds of Apple's revenue, at $51.1 billion. That was up from 51 million iPhones and $32.5 billion revenue a year earlier.
Last quarter was the first full quarter that the iPhone 6 was available. Apple doesn't break down its sales by model, but Cook said the iPhone 6 was the top seller.
Revenue from China increased by 70 percent to $16.1 billion, and sales outside the U.S. accounted for 65 percent of revenue.
Mac sales were another highlight. The systems brought in a record $6.9 billion, up from $6.4 billion a year earlier. The company sold 5.5 million Macs, up from 4.8 million.
A bleak spot was iPad sales, which have been in decline for the past three quarters. Apple sold 21 million tablets, down from 26 million in its first fiscal quarter of 2014. IPad revenue was $8.9 billion, compared to $11.5 billion a year earlier.
"I believe over the long arc of time the iPad is a great business," Cook said, adding that "there's probably some level of cannibalization going on with the Mac on one side and the phone on the other."
The iPhone 6 features a larger screen than previous models, and the MacBook Air is lighter than traditional laptops, features that give the devices some of the mobility of a tablet.
Another factor contributing to declining iPad sales, according to Cook: a longer upgrade cycle for tablets compared with iPhones and Macs.
Apple's attempt to establish a greater presence in the enterprise market, an area where it has struggled to gain acceptance, may change the iPad's fortunes.
In July, IBM announced it would sell Apple products and services to its enterprise customers. The first results of the partnership appeared in December, when the companies unveiled a suite of mobile apps aimed at specific industries. During Tuesday's call, Cook said that 12 apps will debut this quarter, including some targeted at new markets like healthcare and energy.
Apple products are used in many businesses, but only a small percentage of workers at those companies use iPads, said Cook. IBM's experience dealing with business users, and Apple's mobility background, could change that situation.
"The real opportunity is to bring mobility into the enterprise. To do that, you obviously need apps that are written for specific jobs. IBM provides us with knowledge of the verticals," he said.
Income for the quarter was $18 billion, up from $13.1 billion in the same quarter last year. Earnings per share came in at $3.06 compared with $2.07 a year earlier.
The company's revenue and profit also beat financial analysts' expectations. Analysts polled by Thomson Reuters had called for revenue of $67.7 billion and earnings per share of $2.60.


text:
[page 496, column 2, continued:]
Durham, Natal. S. Africa, August 29, 1878.
IN 'The Works of Edgar Allan Poe,' and again in 'Gill's Life,' both published by Messrs. Chatto & Windus, there is a somewhat grotesque illustration purporting to be the portrait of the "Rev. John Bransby, M. A., Poe's English Schoolmaster, circa 1820." It represents a clergyman in wig and [column 3:] gown, and I should take it to be a portrait of an old English divine flourishing certainly not later than the eighteenth century. At all events the picture is utterly unlike the Dr. Bransby who was Poe's schoolmaster; on the other hand, it might serve very well for a fancy portrait of a character introduced by Poe in his tale of 'William Wilson.' In this tale, William Wilson, a mythical person, gives some account of a pedagogue whom he calls Dr. Branby, and to whom he refers in the following passage, "With how deep a spirit of wonder and perplexity was I wont to regard him from our remote pew in the gallery, as with step solemn and slow, he ascended the pulpit! This reverend man, with countenance so demurely benign, with robes so glossy and so clerically flowing, with wig so minutely powered, so rigid and so vast — could this be he who, of late, with sour visage, and in snuffy habiliments, administered, ferule in hand, the Draconian Laws of the Academy?" — The academy is described in the same tale as "a large, rambling, Elizabethan house," with "pointed Gothic windows and a ceiling of oak."
Now the story of 'William Wilson' has been held to be partly autobiographical, and the portions which I have quoted have been embodied, over and over again, in Poe's memoirs, as giving a matter-of-fact account of his English school and schoolmaster. Mr. Hotten, however, states, in a preface published in 1872, that by chance he had been able to identify the house where Poe was at school, at Stoke Newington, near London, but not as having "Elizabethan gables," described in the story, but as "a roomy old structure of Queen Anne's time." Surely then Poe's later biographers, Baudelaire and Gill, amongst others, should hardly take for granted that Dr. Bransby, of Stoke Newington, was the prototype of the schoolmaster described in 'William Wilson,' after being aware, as they must be, that the account of the schoolhouse is so entirely a romance.
The fact is, that the Dr. Bransby of the tale, with the exception of his name, is quite as much a product of Poe's imagination as is the schoolhouse itself.
The Rev. John Bransby, D. D., Poe's schoolmaster at Stoke Newington, was a cousin of the eminent surgeon, Sir Astley Cooper. After leaving Stoke Newington, he received the appointment of head master of the King's Lynn Grammar School, where I was a pupil of his for four yeas, and remained on friendly terms with him till his death, which occurred in 1856. As I remember him, he was a portly and venerable gentleman, with the reputation of being a thorough scholar, very apt at quotation, especially from Shakspeare and Horace, and passionately fond of horticulture. His flower garden, with the lofty tower, all that was left of the old Grey Friar's Monastery, standing in the midst of of [[sic]] it, was one of the shows of the town.
Undoubtedly he was a strict disciplinarian, but I never remember him flogging a boy who did not deserve it, or more than he deserved; in this he was very unlike his predecessor, Dr. Kidd, of whom the tradition was handed down, in the school, that he caused the under-masters to flog the boys, then and there, for every offence, however slight, committed on any day of the week except Saturday, on which day he went into business himself and administered to those boys who had already suffered castigation a double dose of the birth, because they had been thrashed previously. Saturday was repetition day for flogging. It was at this school, by the way, Eugene Aram was usher when he was arrested for the murder of Mr. Daniel Clark.
At the time when Poe resided with the Bransby family, it consisted, I believe, of two sons and four daughters, besides the doctor and his wife; the latter was a kind motherly person and the daughters were highly educated girls; one of them afterwards married a captain in the Royal Navy, and another, whose photograph lies before me, helping me to recall old memories, is now the widow of an Indian officer. It was a family in which, I am sure, Poe would meet no harsh treatment, but with much consideration. That he profited [page 497:] under Dr. Bransby's care is shown by the fact that when he entered the school he was very backward with his studies, not having had any regular instruction, and that when he left it he was able to speak the French language, construe any easy Latin author, and was far better acquainted with history and literature than many boys of a more advanced age who had had greater advantages than he had. I spoke to Dr. Bransby about him two or three times during my school days, having then, as now, a deep admiration for his poems, a copy of which I had received as a prize for an effort in English verse. Dr. Bransby seemed rather to shun the topic, I suppose from some feeling with regard to his name being used distastefully in the story of 'William Wilson.' In answer to my questions on one occasion, he said, "Edgar Allan" (the name Poe was known by at school) "was a quick and clever boy and would have been a very good boy if he had not been spoilt by his parents," meaning the Allans; "but they spoilt him, and allowed him an extravagant amount of pocket-money, which enabled him to get into all manner of mischief — still I liked the boy — poor fellow, his parents spoilt him!" At another time he said, "Allan was intelligent, wayward and wilful." This was about all that I could ever learn from him with regard to his former pupil.
It is quite possible that other reminiscences of Poe survive in the Bransby family, but, in the fifteen years that I have been absent from England, its members have become scattered and our correspondence has ceased, so that now I am unable to say, with certainty, where they reside. I think, however, that I could print out the direction in which inquiry for them would prove successful.
The present clipping survives as item #747 in the Ingram Collection.
In the Athenæum of October 26, 1878 appears a letter from John T. D. Kidd and Richard B. Prson Kidd defending Dr. Thomas Kidd from the charge of flagrantly imposing the use of the rod as punishment for even the slightest of offences.
Almost nothing is known about William Elijah Hunter, although he appears to have been a missionary in South Africa. He is known to have performed baptisms there as late as 1884, at St. Mary the Virgin, an Anglican church in Barkly West, South Africa. (This church appears to have been established in 1872, as the first church on the Diamond Fields.) In addition to this article, Hunter sent a letter to J. H. Ingram, in which he included several poems that he hoped Ingram could place in a reputable English magazine.
[S:0 - ATH, 1878] - Edgar Allan Poe Society of Baltimore - A Poe Bookshelf - Poe and His English Schoolmaster (W. E. Hunter, 1878)


text:
U.S. Continues to Monitor North Korean Situation, Official Says
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, May 28, 2009 – The United States government -- including the Pentagon -- is "very closely" monitoring the situation regarding North Korea's recent nuclear device and missile tests, a senior Defense Department official said here today.
Meanwhile, President Barack Obama is employing diplomacy and international pressure through the United Nations to persuade North Korea to eliminate its nuclear weapons program.
Obama "has made clear the path in which the United States is going to take to try to resolve these issues," Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman told reporters.
"The record is clear: North Korea has previously committed to abandoning its nuclear program," Obama told reporters at a May 25 White House news conference, following reports that North Korea had conducted an underground nuclear-device test earlier that day. North Korea, Obama told reporters, "has chosen" to ignore its commitment to jettison its nuclear weapons program.
As a result of North Korea reneging on its pledge, Obama continued, it will face stronger international efforts to persuade it to comply with U.N. resolutions.
It is believed that North Korea carried out its first underground nuclear test in October 2006.
Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton yesterday condemned North Korea's May 25 underground test of a nuclear device, as well as its recent missile tests. The United States, she said, is working with the United Nations to convince North Korea to adhere to its pledge not to develop nuclear weapons or other weapons of mass destruction, to include ballistic missiles.
Whitman said more-definitive knowledge whether North Korea had, indeed, conducted a nuclear-device test on May 25 could become available during the next several days.
|Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list


text:
WASHINGTON – The Senate has debated, sniped and voted on the politically fraught issue of tax cuts, and next week the House is likely to do it all over again. Still, Americans won't know until after the November elections how much more of their paychecks will go to the government next year.
House Speaker John Boehner said Thursday that his Republican-led chamber is "more than willing" to make Democrats vote on the President Barack Obama's plan to extend former president George W. Bush's tax cuts for all but the wealthiest Americans. He also is bringing up the GOP's proposal to extend the tax cuts for everyone.
The outcome is almost certainly stalemated until the November elections, so leaders of both houses of Congress are turning the House and Senate into campaign stages on one of the defining issues of the presidential and congressional races.
Obama signaled on Thursday he's ready to do his part to light a fire under lawmakers. "I would urge the House of Representatives to do the right thing," he told reporters during a Cabinet meeting. He said he and top aides will "amplify that message" in the days to come.
Obama said the one-year extension would provide "certainty and security to families who are already feeling pinched" and reassure businesses by taking "a whole bunch of uncertainty out of the economy" at a time of global economic worries.
The Senate opened the drama Wednesday with surprise debates and passage of a Democratic bill fashioned on President Barack Obama's proposal to extend the income tax cuts to all but the wealthiest Americans through 2013. It passed even though the measure stands no chance of surviving the Republican-led House. Meanwhile, the Senate rejected a GOP amendment to extend the cuts to all taxpayers. House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, intends to bring up that measure in his chamber next week.
So the matter was a nearly certain stalemate even before Democratic leader Harry Reid and Republican leader Mitch McConnell abruptly agreed to vote on two measures, spent the day accusing each other of playing politics and the last 20 minutes trying to get the last word.
"We know this is about the election," McConnell said. At one point he resolved to let Reid close the debate but then changed his mind to dispute a point.
"Here we go again," Reid muttered. Some of McConnell's remarks, he added, were "poppycock."
Despite the drama, the issue carries great significance for voters deeply worried about their finances as the economy struggles to recover from recession. Which way the debate goes could mean a big difference: an average of $1,600 a year in taxes for 114 million middle-class families, according to the White House.
The electorate is deeply divided over the tax cut issue.
A CBS News/New York Times poll conducted July 11-16 found that nearly half of Americans, about 49 percent, would prefer that the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts continue only for those households earning less than $250,000 a year, as Obama and congressional Democrats want. An additional 17 percent think the cuts should expire for everyone. And 27 percent say the tax cuts should be continued for all taxpayers, as Republicans want.
Wednesday's Senate vote on the $250 billion Democratic bill was a near-party line 51-40 tally, with Vice President Joe Biden presiding over the chamber in the unlikely event his vote was needed to break a tie. Minutes earlier, senators voted 54-45 to reject the rival Republican package that would have included the wealthiest Americans in the tax reductions.
"With the Senate's vote, the House Republicans are now the only people left in Washington holding hostage the middle-class tax cuts for 98 percent of Americans and nearly every small business owner," Obama said in a written statement.
The vote served as a counterpoint to the GOP-run House, which next week will pass tax cuts nearly identical to the $405 billion Republican plan the Senate rejected Wednesday.
Republicans say raising taxes on higher earners saps money from business owners who would otherwise create jobs. Democrats say that's overblown.
"The House will vote next week to stop that tax hike, and until the Senate does the same, the threat to our economy remains," Boehner said in a statement.
Though the House and Senate votes are mostly for show, they pose challenges to some lawmakers in tough re-election campaigns.
The Democratic bill would dramatically boost the estate tax, which would be widely unpopular in farming, ranching and high cost-of-living states. It also would increase levies on dividends and capital gains, which are relied on by many elderly people.
Sen. Claire McCaskill, D-Mo., who is in a difficult re-election race, announced she had introduced a bill preventing the estate tax from rising next year. She issued a news release to that effect just minutes after voting for the Democratic bill, which would let estate taxes rise in 2013.
Under the Democratic measure, individuals earning more than $200,000 and couples making over $250,000 would see their top rates rise from 33 percent and 35 percent today to 36 percent and 39.6 percent in January.
The Democratic bill would also boost the top tax rate paid by people who inherit estates to 55 percent, exempting the first $1 million in an estate's value. The GOP measure would maintain today's 35 percent top rate and would not tax the first $5.12 million of an estate's value.
In fresh figures released this week by Republicans, Congress' nonpartisan Joint Committee on Taxation estimated that the Democratic provision would affect 55,200 estates next year, compared with 3,600 who would face estate taxes under the GOP plan.
Democrats would impose top tax rates next year of 20 percent on dividends and capital gains, two sources of income enjoyed disproportionately by the wealthy. The GOP top rate would be 15 percent.
The GOP bill ignores some tax credits for low- and middle-income families that Democrats want to extend for college costs; for some low-income couples and large working families; and for families with children.
Associated Press writer Mark S. Smith and AP Deputy Polling Director Jennifer Agiesta contributed to this report.


text:
Watch Ouran High School Host Club Episode 26 English Subbed at shahid4u
Haruhi is a poor tomboyish student at a school for the ultra-wealthy, able to attend because of a scholarship, and unable to even afford a uniform. One day, she stumbles across the decidedly peculiar but very popular Ouran Host Club. She tries to leave, but accidentally breaks a vase, and unable to pay for it, she's told that she'll have to stay and do odd jobs. That is, until they decide she would be more valuable as a club member. Not realizing she's female due to her appearance, they fix her up and give her a male uniform. She's an instant hit, so they decide to have her keep up the charade even after they find out the truth.
Haruhi, being average almost to a fault, doesn't know what to make of the unconventional activities of the Host Club (or of the even more unconventional members), but having little choice, she plays along. Before long, real bonds are formed, friends made, and Haruhi finds herself accepted in a way she could never have been otherwise in this affluent school.


text:
So I ball so hard muhf*ckas wanna fine me
But first ni**as gotta find me
What's 50 grand to a muhf*ka like me
Can you please remind me?
Ball so hard, this sh*t crazy
Ya'll don't know that don't sh*t phase me
The Nets could go 0-82 and I look at you like this sh*t gravy
Ball so hard, this sh*t weird
We ain't even spose to be here,
Ball so hard, Since we here
It's only right that we be fair
Psycho, I'm liable to be go Michael
Take your pick, Jackson, Tyson, Jordan, Game 6
Ball so hard, got a broke clock, Rolleys that don't tick tok
Audemars that's losing time, Hidden behind all these big rocks
Ball so hard, I'm shocked too, I'm supposed to be locked up too
If you escaped what I've escaped
You'd be in Paris getting f*cked up too
Ball so hard, let's get faded, Le Meurice for like 6 days
Gold bottles, scold models, Spillin' Ace on my sick J's
B**ch behave, Just might let you meet Ye,
Chi towns D. Rose, I'm movin' the Nets to BK
Ball so hard muhf*ckas wanna fine me
That sh*t crazy (x6)
Kanye West
She said Ye can we get married at the mall?
I said look you need to crawl 'fore you ball
Come and meet me in the bathroom stall
And show me why you deserve to have it all
That sh*t crazy, Ain't it Jay?
What she order, fish filet
Your whip so cold, this old thing
Act like you'll ever be around muhf***as like this again
Bougie girl, grab her hand
F**k ol girl she don't wanna dance
Excuse my French but I'm in France (I'm just sayin)
Prince William's ain't do it right if you ask me
Cause if I was him I would have married Kate &a Ashley
What's Gucci my ni**a?
What's Louie my killa?
What's drugs my deala?
What's that jacket, Margiela?
Doctors say I'm the illest
Cause I'm suffering from realness
Got my niggas in Paris
And they going gorillas, huh!
Ball so hard muhf*ckas wanna fine me
Ball so hard muhf*ckas wanna fine me
Kanye West
You are now watching the throne
Don't let me get in my zone (x3)
These other niggaas is lyin
Actin' like the summer ain't mine
I got that hot bitch in my home
Kanye West
You know how many hot b**ches I own
Don't let me in my zone (x4)
The stars is in the building
They hands is to the ceiling
I know I'm bout to kill it
How you know, I got that feeling
You are now watching the throne
Don't let me into my zone (x2)
Jay-Z & Kanye West
I'm definitely in my zone
Note :
Le clip vidéo de Niggas in Paris
Télécharger le MP3, acheter le CD Audio ou la sonnerie de Niggas in Paris
Autres singles de Jay-Z
- We Made It (Remix)
- Computerized
- Drunk In Love (Remix)
- Drunk In Love (Remix)
- The Devil Is A Lie
- Know Bout Me
- Upgrade U
- Pound Cake / Paris Morton Music 2
- 100$ Bill
- Dead Presidents III (Original Version)
- Tom Ford
- Beach Is Better
- La Familia
- Part II (On the Run)
- Oceans
- Versus
- Jay-Z Blue
- Heaven
- Holy Grail
» voir les 58 singles de Jay-Z
Autres singles de Kanye West
- I Won
- Drunk In Love (Remix)
- Drunk In Love (Remix)
- Sanctified
- Born To Win
- Candy
- All Falls Down
- Scape Goat (Remix)
- Home (Windy)
- Jesus Walks
- Have It Your Way
- Out Of Your Mind
- Wow!
- Bound 2
- Send It Up
- Guilt Trip
- Blood On The Leaves
- I'm In It
- Hold My Liquor
- I Am A God
» voir les 98 singles de Kanye West
Liens pour les lyrics de Niggas in Paris
Pour votre site / blog, copiez cette adresse :
BBCode pour un forum, utilisez ce code :


text:
ComforTech® Plus
ComforTech® Plus is a complete recoil reduction system. It delivers better results than any other recoil reduction product available. ComforTech® Plus keeps you comfortable and on target, without adding weight.
ComforTech® Plus reduces recoil and muzzle climb.
- No added weight or moving parts
- Complete recoil reduction at all three stages: firing, rearward bolt travel, and forward bolt travel
- Recoil is managed by the shock-absorbing chevrons, the comb pad, and the contoured recoil pad
ComforTech® Plus optimizes the revolutionary ComforTech® system.
The Vinci shotgun's ComforTech® Plus recoil reduction system combines what many thought impossible: a lightweight and soft kicking shotgun.
Benelli engineers developed specialized machinery to measure and graph recoil. Here, the recoil of a Benelli Super Black Eagle is plotted along with an SBE II with ComforTech®. You can see a dramatic recoil reduction with ComforTech® at all 3 stages of recoil: firing, rearward bolt travel, and forward bolt travel.
ComforTech® Plus Recoil Pad
The pad reduces felt recoil in 2 ways:
- The contoured shape distributes the recoil force over a larger area.
- The material spreads the recoil force out over a longer period of time.
ComforTech® Plus Comb Pad
The pad cushions the cheek during recoil, and provides a slick surface that allows your cheek to slide along the comb during recoil. This eliminates frictional resistance and insulates your face from shock and vibration.
The stock is divided by 24 synthetic, recoil-absorbing chevrons. The chevrons are arranged diagonally from the heel of the buttstock to a point just behind the pistol-grip. The stock is designed so the exterior shell flexes outward to further dampen recoil. Together with the ComforTech® Plus recoil pad, this design spreads the peak force of recoil over a longer period of time. It reduces felt recoil better than any competitor's claim.


text:
Aerials and Aviation
Photos of NH lakes and mountains taken from an open window of a Cessna plane while my husband flies. It isn't easy to capture images while doing this since the conditions change while up in the air. The amount of wind, the direction of sunlight, the time of day make it challenging. The best days with beautiful clouds and sun can be very windy and the cloudy stormy days can be calm.Read More


text:
_ErrorDump [22971]
git revert <commitId>
Have got two generic methods to call against a service. Depending on call, some methods return an object (passed in params), some don't (void). Can this be further improved? I have got to this point after refactoring a lot and removing anything which was repeated.
private static TResponse Servi...
("french accent") First sorry if my english is not perfect ("french accent")
Any help or advice or something that keep me going would be really apreciated.
I am currently learning by myself android studio. I am working on a project with a RecyclerView and new intent but unfortunately I dont kno...
Determine if a sentence is a pangram.
Determine if a sentence is a pangram. A pangram (Greek: παν γράμμα,
pan gramma, "every letter") is a sentence using every letter of the
alphabet at least once. The best known English pangram is "The quick
brown fox jumps over the la...
Others have mentioned that your code is overkill, but the biggest problem I see is the parallelism. It is frankly broken and will not always give the expected result. To an observer, it looks like you used a feature that you did not really understand in order to look good, and as a result you wro...
Imagine I have a dictionary like this:
class1 = {
Max: [9, 7, 10], Jhon: [3,2,1]
The values for each name is stored as a list object.
I have used this code (which works) to find the average of every name/ value and print them:
print({k: [sum(float(i) for i in v) / len(v)] for k, v in class...
This program asks the user for input three times, and based on that input, calculates the chmod. I have included comments with questions and clarifications in the code.
I would like to have these questions answered and help with making the if ... in ... part shorter, if that's possible.
I have written some code in Node.js that takes a date as argument and return all the possible combination of social security numbers.
I'd really appreciate some advice when it comes to these areas:
Coding style
Code structure
In my code I have included a brief description on how these number...
Im not sure what im doing wrong. I have successfully passed a form to my php script via $.ajax. however i want to use 2 submits(or button) to either remove or save my form data.
{ code}
However, i cannot get t...
Hey this is my first post here,
If i get it right i can publish here my code for code reviews.
Sounds awesome.
I made a movie review classifier and i would like someone that is not me to go over it.
link to the project git](https://github.com/kill129/Review-Classifier)
Tell me what do you thin...
I created a string splitter in C++. It splits a string in a lazy fashion and makes use of forward iterators to sequentially supply the next token from the string until it runs out of tokens. The code is quite large (over 300 lines), so I will just have a link to it.
I have some concerns with the...
This is my first MVC app. I'm looking for best practice feedback on how to best bundle the files that I need, the order to bundle them, the placement of the @render methods within the containing html page
namespace StateAssessment
using System.Web.Optimization;
public class ...
Variables should be private when possible
MyFrame frame;
ArrayList<Point> listOfDots;
ArrayList<Point> foods;
Image OSC;
PointerInfo a = MouseInfo.getPointerInfo();
int size = 10;
int speed = 10;
Random r;
You should make variables private and final whenever possible. There are many benefit...
It's the second Euler project
using namespace std;
int main()
int a=0,b=1,c, s=1;
//cout<<a<<" ";
//cout<<b<<" ";
for(int i=1;i<=3999998;i++)
//cout<<c<<" ";
-_- . It's says that the fibonacci numbers should not exceed four million.Pay more attention on what you read .
I have two little projects that I've been working on;
One is to find all palindromes:
function palindrome(str) {
var replaceStrChr = str.replace(/\W/g,'').replace(/ /g,'').replace(/_/g,'').toLowerCase();
var arrayifyStr = replaceStrChr.split('').reverse();
var stringifyStr = arrayifyStr.j...
Hi am building a CSV file parser, and in order to get the appropriate Object to represent different data types found on the parsed files, I wrote the following function:
public static Object stringToDataType(String valueAsString) throws ParseException{
// detections ordered by probability o...
I have a program which calculates the sum of the digits in the number 2^1000. The program is not beutiful and I was hoping for some advice on how to improve it.
The idea I have used is to create an array with the first element equal to 2^0. The first element in the array represent 10^0 the secon...
"Questions containing broken code or asking for advice about code not yet written are off-topic, as the code is not ready for review. After the question has been edited to contain working code, we will consider reopening it."
We don't review broken code
Broken code is off-topic here
I've been reading about AngularJS services and factories, and how you should strive for a thin controller, but as the project I've been working on grows it seems more and more impractical with as interconnected as the app is. For a little background, I am using UI-Grid to display most data in th...
Note: For chat-like discussions of this subject, let's use this Discuss Close Reasons chat room
Code Review currently has three standard off-topic reasons:
Questions containing broken code or asking for advice about code not yet written are off-topic, as the code is not ready for review. A...
I'm in the process of delving into different design patterns and trying to implement them into my daily work routine.
I come from an unstructured world of PHP and not understanding how to utilize it to its potential. I have recently switched over to C# and I'm trying to unlearn some bad habits ...
I found working on this jigsaw puzzle a personally rewarding experience. It really helped me appreciate what you do here.
Obviously the longer your site has been around, the more problems you find that need addressing. I'm sure you've tried cramming more unrelated close reasons into each slot, b...
Questions must be asked by an author or maintainer of the code and include the code to be reviewed. Links to code hosted on third-party sites are permissible, but the most relevant excerpts must be embedded in the question itself.
Questions about code that has not yet been written, code that doe...
foreach (var project in documents.Select(x => x.Project))
Could someone review this PHP code to see if my pages are coded safely to not allow common attacks (SQL injection, XSS, etc.)? I would be thankful, of course, for anyone to point out other problems in my code as well.
// getpaste.php
$db_conn_config = parse_ini_file('../private/db_conn.ini...
Good Evening,
I wanted to start with the Entity Component System but for that I have realized I should have know some basic patterns.
So here is my implementation of an Observer. Later on I also want to implement an notification system with threading and somehow events. So I just wanted to get ...
Thanks to Gurkenglas for the help with the previous iteration: Haskell - Pig Latin Translator!
Given the constraint that the newtypes are required, what improvements could be made to the following Pig Latin translator?
{-# LANGUAGE FlexibleInstances #-}
{-# LANGUAGE InstanceSigs #-}
import Con...
I'm a Windows sysadmin who is new to C# and "professional" coding. My background is in VBScript ("get it done") and I've apparently built up a number of bad habits. I'm hoping a review of the following code can help me do things the right way when tasks are still easy so that more difficult pro...
I have a sequence and from that I have to make Markov Chain Model in MATLAB. Markov Chain model considers only 1-step transition probabilities i.e. probability distribution of next state depends only on current state and not on previous state. I am using equation given below to make Markov Chain ...
Then add a special case
In all likelihood, they were looking to see how flexible and maintainable you could make your code be, and you gave them a showcase of some raw technical knowledge instead.
I'm not impressed with the fact that the fizzbuzz logic is written in three different places, ...


text:
Follow CryptoFiveo on
Latest from the Blog
Ballet crypto wallet coupon code
Changelly is on the CryptoFiveo blog – instant buy/sell and exchange cryptocurrency
Free Bitcoin Cloud Mining with CryptoTab Browser
The CryptoTab browser allows users to easily mine Bitcoin for free. With the integrated free cloud mining feature when surfing the web, you gain rewards in Bitcoin. Start your journey with the Bitcoin Cloud Mining service, and build your mining network to gain rewards in Bitcoin.
CryptoFiveo blog Disclaimer
This little cryptocurrency blog contains affiliate/referral links. An affiliate/referral link means that I may earn advertising/referral fees if you purchase through my links.
NOTE: The affiliate links don't bring ANY EXTRA COST TO YOU, it will just help to keep the channel and blog active. Thanks for the support :).
Read more about this on the About Page, or in the content of the legal pages.


text:
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas (AFNS) -- The Air Force will implement several voluntary officer and enlisted force management programs for fiscal year 2013, Air Force Personnel Center officials announced today.
Announced in the January release of the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal 2013, the authorized active duty Air Force end-strength is 329,460; a reduction of 3,340 authorized personnel from fiscal 2012. In order to meet congressionally-mandated end-strength by Sept. 30, the Air Force will continue executing its multi-year force management strategy, said Lt. Col. Letitia Marsh, Headquarters Air Force Separation and Retirement Policy Branch chief.
For officers, voluntary measures will be offered in certain year groups and overage career fields to allow for time in grade waivers for eligible lieutenant colonels, limited active duty service commitment waivers, Palace Chase transfers to the Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve, and the 10 to 8 Commissioned Years of Service Waiver program.
For enlisted members, voluntary programs open to Airmen who are not in critical specialties include limited active-duty service commitment and time-in-grade waivers, waivers to enlistment contracts, and Palace Chase transfers to the Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve.
All applications must be submitted, via the virtual MPF, by Aug. 1, 2013. Approved separations must be complete by Sept. 29 and those approved to retire must do so by Sept. 1, 2013.
Voluntary force management program applicants may be required to repay the Air Force for monetary value of an active duty service commitment incurring event, depending on the program.
"For example, Airmen approved for Palace Chase transfers to the Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve will not have to repay the service for such benefits as tuition assistance or transfer of Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits under most circumstances," said Maj. Michael Meek, Air Force Personnel Center Retirements and Separations Branch chief. "But Airmen need to carefully read the information on each program to ensure they understand which active duty service commitment waivers require repayment."
Although all Airmen may apply, some active-duty service commitment waivers will not be approved, including those incurred for undergraduate and advanced pilot training, Meek said.
Force management programs enable the Air Force to reduce overmanned fields in order to better utilize Air Force resources.
"As we execute this year's voluntary force management strategy, the Air Force will continue to assess the need for additional voluntary and involuntary force management measures in order to meet authorized end strength levels in current and future fiscal years," Marsh said.
Airmen who transition through a force management program are eligible for, and highly-encouraged to attend, the new five-day Transition Assistance Program workshop, Marsh said. The program offers significant assistance to help people prepare for post-military life. In addition to resume development, job-hunting tips, education counseling and networking support, the new program offers one-on-one counseling to help Airmen develop comprehensive individual transition plans.
Full eligibility requirements and application procedures for officer and enlisted programs are available on the myPers website at https://mypers.af.mil. Enter PSDM 13-09 in the search window for officer FM programs and PSDM 13-10 for enlisted programs.


text:
If you love racing simulators and you ever happen to be passing through Lyons, France (or if you live nearby) then a new business that recently opened it's doors there will certainly hold appear for you. Called I-WAY, the pace has be under construction for the past four years and offers more than racing simulators although the simulators are the primary attraction for spending your hard earned cash there. With 18 6-axis simulators built around full-sized "Formula 1, rally/touring and endurance race cars" you will be spending quite a bit a of cash for the experience, with a single race starting at a mere €60 (or about $73.25USD; I am being facetious when I say "mere" here). You can also get a racing package with ten races for 'only' €630, so save up before you head in. At the very least with the quality of simulators that they appear to have, you know that you are going to get a high quality experience out the it.
[Via OhGizmo!]


text:
10 x 50 ml Glass Short fills, Max VG Base and 3mg nicotine. (nicotine will be provided separately as an Add Nic 10ml bottle)
The Worldwide Award Winning Best Seller!
There is nothing that compares to this flavour.
Delicate, sweet and full of flavour. Red Ice is a mouthwatering sensation. Taking the taste of ripe berries, tropical flavours and mixing in a hint of cool menthol for a perfect vape.
- Produced, Tested & Manufactured in the United Kingdom
- Superior Pharmaceutical grade ingredients sourced wholly from the United Kingdom
- No Alcohol
- No Artificial Sweeteners, Colours or Preservatives
- No Animal ingredients of any kind
- Vegan/Kosher/Halal friendly
- No Diacetyl
- No Gluten, Corn or Peanut derivatives
- Short fill in Elegant Glass bottle
50ml Short fill has 35ml content and 1 x 10ml Add Nic


text:
One of the most powerful and impressive nuclear detonations of all time: The French 'Licorne' (Unicorn) Thermonuclear test of 1970 with a yield of 914 kilotons.
Based on the 1970 photo, this is a 3D relief framed micro painting representation sized at
In: 3 w x 2.2 d x 0.3 h / Cm: 7.6 w x 5.7 d x 0.7 h
This is the regular sized option. You can get the large size one, here.
This item is part of a product line of framed micro-paintings called ''3D History'', depicting famous photographs and artwork of important historical, artistic, scientific and sociopolitical background. These micro-paintings can be displayed on a desk, a bookshelf, glued on a wall (via blue tack or double sided tape/foam) or even used as elaborate fridge magnets, if magnets (or magnetic tape) are attached on the back.
The painting 3D relief is not made by automated software which usually extrudes certain characteristics, up to a single height level. The relief is achieved manually and several techniques are employed to enhance the final result where applicable, depending on the subject (artificial horizon, full/partial 3D scene reconstruction, light enhancing presentation etc.).
This particular item is designed is such a way, that bright back-lighting will enhance the visual impression of the painting.
The item is not self standing - A stand such as this is recommended for optimal display.
Note: The stand pictured with the 'Licorne' micro-painting is not included with the item. It must be purchased separately.