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Being that I respect and bow to Snowden for doing what he did, I'm so here for this movie and can not wait to watch it! ^_^
Snowden Trailer
Unsustainable Ways
Fukushima Disaster Continues
Ukraine, Venezuela... The world up 4 grabs
The world is demanding FREEDOM, JUSTICE, and TRUTH. The voices of the people are not being heard and unfortunately, corruption is everywhere and people are tired of it. I ask myself, why hasn't the United States woken up to the unfortunate reality of it all... then I remember, ignorance is bliss.
20 Medical Studies That Prove Cannabis Cures Cancer
Cannabis has been making a lot of noise lately. Multiple states across the United States and countries around the world have successfully legalized medical Marijuana, and the Uruguay parliament recently voted to create the world's first legal marijuana market. This is good news as the health benefits of Cannabis are vast, with multiple medical and scientific studies that confirm them. On the other hand, arguments against the use of marijuana is usually published in Psychiatric journals, which show no scientific evidence that Cannabis is harmful to human health. All psychological evaluations from the intake of cannabis are largely based on assumptions, suggestions and observations (1). When we look at the actual science behind Cannabis, the health benefits can be overwhelming. So what does one who opposes the use of cannabis base their belief on? Nothing, not scientific evidence anyways. The negative stigmatism attached to marijuana is due to it's supposed psychotropic effects, yet again, there is no scientific evidence to show that marijuana has any psychotropic effects. Nonetheless, cannabis has recently been the focus of medical research and considered as a potential therapeutic treatment and cure for cancer.
Marijuana Legalizaiton in the US next?
Obama's remarks on Marijuana resonated all over the world. "It's important to go forward…it is less dangerous" than alcohol. These statements along with an increasing PRO-marijuana stance by Americans (Colorado, Washington) pose the question: Is the US next in legalizing Marijuana? Uruguay has already taken the first step as a country in legalizing this medicinal plant. Amsterdam, a popular tourist destination in Europe, has already enjoyed the profits of what the Marijuana business can generate. Furthermore, continual studies on the plant has shown that it's medicinal properties can't be negated. Documentaries depicting how Marijuana could be used to better a human's life flood the internet. Is there any reason why we shouldn't legalize Marijuana everywhere? I think not.
Monsanto Rejection Increases
Why should the so-called science of genetically-engineered food need protection? Mark Bittman, lead food columnist for the Times magazine, poses that question in his April 2nd column writing, "Genetic engineering in agriculture has disappointed many people who once had hopes for it." After failure after failure and tests showing how GMOs negatively impact the human body, it's great to see bigger media outlets begin to report what we already know. As a matter of fact, a new study published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Hermatology & Thromboembolic Diseases has reveled that GMOs indeed damage and toxify human blood cells, and can consequently lead the development of deadly blood diseases like anemia and leukemia. Long-term exposure to GM toxins have proven to cause systematic damage to human health. In other words, there is no sound scientific basis for use of certain toxins in food products consume by humans, as they are clearly unsafe.
Fukushima Horror- Not Over?
New reports suggest that the Fukushima disaster is far from over. Reports from back in March indicate that since the disaster back in 2011, a total of 16.1 trillion becquerels of just cesium-137 are believed to have leaked into seawater not to mention tritium and strontium which remained oddly consistent. As much as 93 billion becquerels or radioactive substances are believed to still be pouring into the Pacific Ocean every single day. One commentator on an ENENews.com report on the issue stated, "These destroyed nuclear reactors are going to pop and sputter for thousands of years to come. Changes in the configuration of residual melted fuel remaining in and around the plants will create ongoing criticalities, with changing cooling water and groundwater flows."
Unfortunately, hot particles are carried in the jet stream as far as America and Europe. Plutonium has reached not only Tokyo, but as far away as Seattle, Washington and Lithuania in Central Europe. What's worse- the marine life in the ocean is being heavily affected. Radioactive contamination of algae from radioactive waste water or fallout becomes more potent in the process of being eaten by crustaceans, small fish, bigger fish, and then humans. Unfortunately, little information regarding this accident is being shared with the general population and by the looks of it, an end to this disaster is far from being reached.
Sources of information:
No banks? No credit card companies?! No middle man? Bitcoin is a facinating digital currency currently on the boom that is set to revolutionize the world. Check out the video above for more info on this phenomena!!
With an increasing amount of laws being stripped from regular citizens of the US and the world, Joe Biden's announcement of what he's coined, "a one world government…" is rather alarming. With the president trying to promote restriction of guns and gun ownership (a direct attack on the 2nd Amendment of the constitution- the right to bear arms), a continual reduction of freedom by acts like SOPA, PIPA, and now CISPA which has moved on to the House floor for vote, and a continual threat from what the news media says North Korea continues to issue to the United States, things are looking rather dreary for citizens of America. It's as if our own government is working against us. Why do we tolerate such acts that serve only those in power? Why are people keeping quiet? This nation was founded on the principles of Freedom and Justice and yet every day that passes, those very principles get trampled on. What will it take for people to wake up and really come to their senses and own up to the power they truly bestow? I pray that it's soon, because things aren't looking well even for an optimistic person like me. Unfortunately it seems that people rather live a lie than face the reality of it all. Check out the video above…
To read more about CISPA, check out this link: http://www.theverge.com/2013/4/10/4210788/cispa-passes-committee-again
Meteorites bringing new life forms to Earth
Ever heard the theory that life started on Earth millions of years ago from bacteria that made its way to the planet via Meteors?! Well, now, this theory is sounding more like a tangible fact. Alien microbes are finding their way from outer space to our big blue planet, Earth, and with an increasing number of meteors descending down our skies, evidence of a once wild theory is starting to sound more like fact. Could it be that we are aliens of our own planet? That life's building blocks came from outer space? Sounds like science fiction, but according to researcher, Dr. Richard B Hoover, "This finding has direct implications to the distribution of life in the Cosmos and the possibility of microbial life on in liquid water regimes of cometary nuclei as the travel within the orbit of Mars and in icy moons with liquid water oceans such as Europa and Enceladus…" For all we know, the universe maybe repopulating Earth with newer, different species that we have yet to uncover. With new like this, we must keep our eyes on what the heavens brings to us here on Earth.
Source: http://myscienceacademy.org/2013/04/09/increasing-numbers-of-meteorites-bringing-life-forms-to-earth/
Scientific accident that could change the world
Ever thought what it would be to plug your iPhone into a charger and have it completely recharged in a matter of seconds? What if an electrical car could be entirely recharged in minutes? Sounds far fetched, doesn't it? Well, now not so much. Check the video above to see why an energy storage medium with revolutionary potential could transform the way we live on this planet.
Source: http://io9.com/5987086/meet-the-scientific-accident-that-could-change-the-world
Obama signs Monsanto Protection Act
In what seems to be an undeniable message that corporations can get around consumer safety protections by lobbying and buying politicians in power, Obama has signed the Monsanto Protection Act. Here are 5 reasons why this bill will make your blood boil:
BRICS Unite
In what has become an effort to tackle under-development and a volatile currency, BRICS has united and is determined to setup institutions that will challenge the roles of the World Bank & International Monetary Fund. A conglomeration of the nations of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, this establishment aims at doing what many have said would do but little have done. With $4.4 trillion in reserves and accounting for 43 percent of the world's population, these countries are seeking a greater sway in global finance to match their rising economic power. It's undeniable that in this day an age, change is imperative. We must focus on helping instead of exploiting one another for personal gain. Let's hope that this merge is one small step towards bringing about positive changes in the world for humanity.
Dr. Benjamin Carson
What an amazing speech!!!! He hit the nail right on the head. I SERIOUSLY couldn't stop applauding this guy from my side of the screen. Watch the awesomeness unleashed above. A definite must!!
America NOT the Greatest country?!?
Probably one of the realest commercials you'll ever see… honest and inspiring!
Senator Elizabeth Warren
Senator Elizabeth Warren questions a committee regarding HSBC's recent laundering money scandal... I must say, after watching this video, I instantly became a fan of hers. Nothing like an intelligent way of illustrating a fault in the system.
Meet the 266th Pope- Jorge Mario Bergogolio from Buenos Aires, Argentina; being that he's the first Pope chosen born outside of Europe, titling this as an interesting moment in history would be an understatement. How will he deal with the issues of gay marriage and contraception? What about the sexual scandals that have rocked the Catholic Church?! How will he differ from previous popes and what can expect from such a conservative papal assignee? All I know is, I'm ready to see this soap opera play out. One must not turn a blind eye to such a powerful religious group. *grabs popcorn and drinks lemonade*
Hugo Chavez Dies
Bid farewell to the one president in the world who had the balls to publicly call George W. Bush the devil. When those famous words from his speech broke the news, I began to question to myself, why does everyone seem to hate the United States so much? What is it that we've done to deserve all this hatred? I researched the issue at hand and tried to see the other side of the coin... I even managed to listen to a very personal interview he gave to a news reporter which, in short, I found quite fascinating. He seemed like a very eloquent, well-spoken, knowledgeable man who was passionate about liberty and freedom... someone who refused to bow down to the American superpower, something Hussein tried to do, but failed once annihilated and removed from power. Many things could be said about Hugo Chavez, but a complacent, weak leader wouldn't be one of them. Farewell Hugo! You definitely rocked the world with your crazy, outspoken antics which I'm sure, won't be forgotten.
Pope Resigns
Being that I was raised Catholic, I found the Pope's resignation very intriguing. Although I don't follow any religion per say, and instead, choose to identify myself as purely spiritual, I must say, this man always gave me the creeps. There was just something about him that just wasn't inviting at all. With sexual scandals coming every which way from within the Catholic church, I wonder, what REALLY motivated him to make the decision to resign. Sure, there were a lot of issues he had to confront ranging from gay marriage to abortion rights, but he knew what he was signing up to do. As custom, I always tend to want to know what it is that was NOT publicly announced via media. Let's hope the next pope gives good direction and unifies instead of divide within a religion that tends to be more hypocritical than transparent.


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General Etiquette > Life...in general
Is this belittling a child? And what to say about it?
(1/16) > >>
Last Saturday, my church was having a Fun night for the youth. The youth group leader and I were the only two adults present and there were a few youths, all around 13-15. We decided to play Disney Scene it and arranged it so it was boys Vs. girls, with the youth group leader and I on the girls team. There was a question pertaining to the movie Treasure Planet, and as the timer was ticking, one of the girls on my team bursts out with, Jim Hawkins! Only problem was, it wasn't our turn. Whoops! The boys took the answer and got a point, and that should have been the end of it, however, when it was their turn again, one said, Oh, (name), if you want to tell us the answer again, feel free to. And then the youth leader turned to the girl in question and said, (Name), keep it zipped! The girl did so, for the rest of the game, and my hinky meter went off. Later during the night, I found her crying in the bathroom. She said she had honestly not realized whose turn it was, as the system we were using of boy turn, girl turn, both answer had confused her and that the comments from both the boy and the youth group leader had really hurt. I feel like I should say something to the youth leader about this.
Think of it as "intel" and let him know.
She may just be extra sensitive--I can see lots of people getting those comments and not reacting that way.
But it would be good for the youth leader to be fully informed about the temperaments of those he frequently encounters in the group.
I was pretty sensitive as a kid and I wouldn't even have blinked at those two comments, I think. Although I guess the youth group leader's comments could depend on whether they had said it sternly or jokingly. But just going by what's given, I don't think the leader and the boy were rude or belittling. Still, it would be good if you let the leader know for the future.
This kinda reminds me of an episode of My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic (what?) where two of the ponies run around playing pranks on everyone, but they purposely avoid pranking one particular pony because they know she's more sensitive and wouldn't react well.
I see the boy's comment as fairly normal teasing behavior for that age group.
The leader's comment, on the other hand, struck me as kind of harsh, with "keep it zipped!" There were other ways to get the message across without sounding so mean. I guess a lot depends on tone of voice, but I kind of flinched when I read that.
So I'd let the boy's comment go, but I would mention this to the leader. If the girl is very sensitive, as Toots says, the leader should know this.
I just know if I were 14 and an adult leader had said that to me, I'd have been surprised at the vehemence of it (it's just a game, after all), and hurt and embarrassed. I'd expect teasing from the other kids, and some complaints from my team, but I would not have expected an adult to react that sharply.
In fact, I'd have expected the adults present to help me learn to deal with making such a mistake, not call me out in public for it.
I think that what happened was mean to the poor girl.
She blurted out an answer without thinking. This happens all the time in team trivia. It's just a momentary embarrassment. Everyone laughs and lets it go.
Harping on her mistake spoiled the girl's fun and made her far more embarrassed than her mistake warranted.
I would definitely say something to the Youth Leader. The goal was for the kids to have fun together but this girl was effectively excluded and made to feel bad about herself. To me, this seems especially inappropriate at a church function.
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subset: commoncrawl


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I wish for you a wonderful birthdayGood to see you back I missed you
Otaku Eternal | Posted 12/04/09 | Reply
Spread theO love around! (you can copy and paste this message on their guestbook!)
1- You can hug the person who hugged you!
2- You MUST hug 6 other people, at least!
3- You should hug them in public! Paste it on their gueatbook!
4- Random hugs are perfectly okay! (and sweet)
5- You should most definitely get started hugging right away!
Send This To All Your Friends, And Me If I Am 1.
If You Get 7 Back You Are Loved!
1-3 you're a bad friend
4-6 you're an OK friend
7-9 you're a good friend
10+ Up you're a great friend!^^
Otakuite+ | Posted 07/27/09 | Reply
Thanks alot & I think you should.I love your wallpapers btw<3


text:
What is included with this book?
|p. xi
|Introduction: A Question of Silence
|p. 1
|"All Israel" and the "Inclusive Ideology of Identity" in Chronicles
|p. 2
|Feminism, Psychoanalysis, and the Hebrew Bible: "Introducting" Luce Irigaray
|p. 15
|"The Monopoly of the Origin" and the Mute Foundation of Psychoanalysis: The Theoretical Interventions of Luce Irigaray
|p. 22
|p. 22
|The Specularization of Woman-Mother in Philosophy
|p. 27
|The Lacanian Universe
|p. 31
|Psychoanalysis, the Economy of the Same, and the Monopoly of the Origin
|p. 45
|The Murder of the Mother and the Forgetting of Female Ancestries
|p. 56
|p. 65
|Remembering the Forgotten Mother: Engaging with Chronicles in an Irigarayan Mode
|p. 68
|Introduction: The Task of Analysis
|p. 68
|Method or Mode? An "Era of Knowledge Already Over" or "the Era of the Spirit and the Bride?"
|p. 70
|The Praticable as Nuptial Tool
|p. 76
|The Embodied Geography of Analysis
|p. 80
|The Rule of Free Association and the Mode of Listening Required
|p. 83
|The Rule of Transference
|p. 87
|Reading Silence
|p. 94
|Speaking Silence Poetically
|p. 102
|Conclusion: Going into Analysis "as Woman" with the Book of Chronicles
|p. 107
|Our Production of a Past, in the Present of Analaysis: Engaging with the Book of Chronicles
|p. 111
|Who Begets Whom? Disavowing the Maternal Body: 1 Chronicles 1-9
|p. 115
|According to You (I)... Shall We Begin at a Beginning?
|p. 115
|Birth Pangs?
|p. 120
|An Intriguing Inclusion on your Part
|p. 123
|From Edom to Israel, a Sharp Turn?
|p. 124
|A Smooth Production Line
|p. 126
|The Cracks Are Starting to Show
|p. 129
|Father to Son?
|p. 139
|The Passive of David
|p. 143
|p. 146
|Summary Analysis
|p. 155
|Grammatical and/or Syntactical Breakdowns
|p. 156
|p. 158
|A Breakdown of Realism
|p. 160
|p. 161
|The Debt-Free Masculine Subject: The Repressed Maternal Body in 1 Chronicles 10-2 Chronicles 36
|p. 167
|According to You (II)... Shall We Begin Again?
|p. 167
|Ideal Israel Born of Man
|p. 168
|A Body in Bits and Pieces: the Murder of the (M)other?
|p. 171
|From Father to Son, a Blessed Machine
|p. 174
|Double-Sexing Sacred Space: The Temple in Chronicles
|p. 178
|"Silencing" the Father?
|p. 183
|Return of the Repressed: The Three Diseased Kings of Chronicles
|p. 188
|The Problematic Representation of the Mother
|p. 198
|The Mother's Murderous Words (2 Chronicles 22:10)
|p. 199
|"A Horrid Thing," a "Thing to Shudder at" (2 Chronicles 15:16)
|p. 202
|p. 206
|Figuring Sexual Difference?
|p. 210
|p. 212
|p. 216
|p. 235
|Index of References
|p. 242
|Index of Authors
|p. 246
|Table of Contents provided by Ingram. All Rights Reserved.


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I've been overwhelmed by the positive response to this site, from random strangers approaching me at the ACEM2011 conference last year to the thankyou emails I receive. And like anyone who's got a budding blog with a growing membership, I toyed with the idea of running some ads, or approaching sponsors so I could start earning a bit of extra cash from the site, but for various reasons I recently decided not to go down that road. The main reason is that I'd like to continue to give people who use this site what they need, how they need it, free from any marketing BS or outside influence.
So I'm now asking you the readers what you want from me, as I endeavour to bring useful content to those who are approaching the ACEM Fellowship Exam, or who have recently passed it, and to those who may be considering starting a career in Emergency Medicine.
What can I help you with? What are you struggling with? Do you need advice on study techniques? Textbook selection? How to integrate social media into your study routine? Exam preparation? Specific emergency medicine topics? Podcasts, more videos, or other multi-media content? Or do you want some tips on trying to maintain work-life balance, choosing the right FACEM job, or (for those who've had enough and want to bail out of Emergency Medicine altogether) tips on career path selection or starting a business outside of medicine.
I've got loads of ideas for new content for this site, and will continue to post regulalry, but please feel free to get in touch and let me know what you're struggling with, what's causing you pain, and I'll see if I can help by making the content more focussed on what you need.
Leave a comment (below), email me, or tweet me, and I look forward to helping you.


text:
Boogie Staff Picks: The Year in Boogie [2012]
Hurricane Sandy – many thought Irene to be a joke, but its successor was a storm of the century that truly gave the city a run for its money. Media attention has since refocused elsewhere, but recovery is still on the horizon.
Harley Flanagan Stabbing – July 6, 2012. A night of hardcore during the inaugural CBGB Festival that went terribly wrong when estranged Cro-Mags co-founder Harley Flanagan brandished a knife and wounded a couple of current band members. Boogie was there with the story and photo seen 'round the world.
Shooting on Forsyth Street – Joshua Nunez shot and killed Charlie Hernandez outside the Jose barber shop, violence that was part of an alleged cross-Bowery turf war.
Elderly Man Jumps to Death on Columbia Street Before Wife's Funeral – 78-year-old Miguel Melendez jumped from his 12-story abode at Masaryk Towers mere hours before the funeral of his wife. They had been married for forty-five years.
When Lana Del Rey Was Lizzy Grant – just a few short years ago, Lana was known by here given name of Lizzy Grant. We caught a few of her shows in 2008 and reminisced with some archival photos.
The Fatal Fall at 191 Orchard Street – Carlisle Brigham accidentally tumbled to her death in the stairwell of 191 Orchard. Brigham had been estranged from her husband of one year and was living with a friend at this address.
Moira Johnston Topless on the Subway – 2012 was the year of Moira Johnston. The topless activist was spotted all across the city, including the subways. Remember, it's perfect legal to bare it all.
"Topless New York" Begins Kickstarter Campaign – a way to spread awareness about the legality of going topless in New York City.
Garbage Truck Crushes Parked Cars on Delancey – a garbage truck driver fell asleep at the wheel and crashed into eight parked cars on Delancey, leaving behind a total mess of damage.
Keith Haring Foundation Partners with TENGA Masturbators – the Haring estate thought it wise to pair up with a sex toy company. Their billboard in Times Square cause quite a commotion.
What were some of your favorite Boogie stories?


text:
Be prepared to be swept away by atmospheric writing that casts a lasting spell. Sally Gardner's prose is exquisitely beautiful and her story and characters enthralling. She has written a rare and glorious book.
About Sally GardnerSee more books from this Author
She writes by the light of seven candles, one for each section, and in her gentle voice tells of the sudden death of her mother, whose silver shadow is kept in a box, and her father's quick remarriage to a piggy Puritan named Maud, as vicious to Coriander as she is to her own daughter, Hester.| Read Full Review of I, Coriander
Summary: A patchy book combining historical fiction and fantasy.Nov 25 2012 | Read Full Review of I, Coriander
But she soon discovers there is much more to this whole Cinderella story than she had realized -- her mother came from another world, and Maud and Arise are being manipulated by an evil queen from that world who wants a magical item Coriander's mother left behind.Jan 16 2006 | Read Full Review of I, Coriander
Growing up in the 1643 England of Oliver Cromwell, Coriander Hobie resides in a comfortable house on the Thames.| Read Full Review of I, Coriander
An aggregated and normalized score based on 30 user ratings from iDreamBooks & iTunes


text:
- Home
- Shop Equipment
- Air & Management
- Air Lines, Hoses & Reels
Fast Pipe Connector 1 In tube to 1/2 In Male NPT
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Air Lines, Hoses and Reels
So you have the compressor, and you have all the air tools you need, how do you hook them up? Whether you want to run soft lines to occasionaly use an impact gun on stubborn fasteners, or you need to plumb your entire shop with hard lines and multiple air outlets, Eastwood has you covered. Our FastPipe kits lets you quickly plumb any size shop in a fraction of the time if would take with traditional pipe. Just working out of a small shop? Get one of our retractable reels and your compressed air source is almost always within reach. We've also got other plumbing solutions, and all the fittings you will ever need for your air system.
Sponsored Links:


text:
Also Known As
- Dave Jensen
Game Credits
|Panzer General III: Scorched Earth (2000)
|Fighting Steel: World War II Surface Combat 1939-1942 (1999)
|(Screen Art)
|Panzer General 3D Assault (1999)
|(Graphics / Artwork)
|People's General (1998)
|(Lead Artist)
|Panzer General II (1997)
|(Additional Graphics / Artwork)
|Fantasy General (1996)
|(Lead Artist)
|Wargame Construction Set III: Age of Rifles 1846-1905 (1996)
|(Graphics / Artwork)
|Panzer General (1994)
|Dark Sun: Shattered Lands (1993)
Quality Assurance
|Leadfoot: Stadium Off-Road Racing (2001)
|(Quality Assurance Testing)
|Arthur's Reading Games (1999)
|(Lead Technician)
|Kid Pix Studio Deluxe (1998)
|(Quality Assurance)
|Arthur's Reading Race (1996)
|(Lead Technician)
|In the 1st Degree (1995)
|(Quality Assurance Testers)
|Game of Thrones (2014)
|(Special Thanks)
|adidas Power Soccer 98 (1997)
|(Thanks to)
|Pacific General (1997)
|(Special Thanks To)
|Allied General (1995)
|(Special Thanks)
Developer Biography
There is no biography on file for this developer.
[add bio]
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Related Sites
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text:
A House United
- by R. Maxwell
in Installations
Audio Upgrade at South Carolina's House of Representatives Chamber Gets Bipartisan Support
The South Carolina House of Representatives consists of 124 part-time citizen legislators elected every two years to represent the state's 124 separate single-member districts. Operating from the House of Representatives Chamber, officials recently oversaw a massive restructuring of the Chamber's AV facilities, which in addition to legislative sessions, is also used occasionally for a wide range of special events.
Augmenting an impressive assortment of video display and projection capabilities, the space is now home to a sophisticated audio system that incorporates Distributed Mode Loudspeaker (DML) technology from Tectonic Audio Labs, over 150 microphones and a redundant networked QSC Q-SYS system for control of the various audio assets — all of which is ultimately under Crestron automation control.
Deliberative Designs Consulting, LLC, of Colorado Springs, CO, a consulting firm that specializes in providing acoustical solutions and integrated systems design for deliberative bodies (legislatures), conference facilities, performing arts centers, entertainment venues, and recording facilities, oversaw the design and implementation of the facility upgrade at the House of Representatives Chamber. Michael Schwartz, the firm's principal consultant, working in conjunction with a variety of fabricators, engineering firms, AV integrators, and others, discussed the project.
"I have been a consultant to the SC House since 1998," Schwartz reports. "In 2012, I started discussing a new type of system based on Distributed Mode Loudspeaker arrays with Charles Reid, the clerk of the House of Representatives and director of house personnel. We had first demoed many conventional loudspeaker systems, but after much discussion, Charles suggested I show him my ideas. I assembled a comprehensive report outlining my vision and then commenced to do several 'proof of concept' demos over the next two plus years. Charles wanted a dramatic improvement in the sound system that would carry the House into the future."
The first step was to do a "brain transplant" with a new DSP system. Schwartz designed and had a contractor install a large new QSC Q-SYS system, with analog inputs and outputs to work with the existing equipment. With the new 'brains' in place, the plan was to transition to a completely new distributed and networked audio system to significantly improve in overall quality and speech intelligibility.
According to Schwartz, the second phase of the project began in 2014 and installation commenced during the summer of 2016 — in time for the 2017 legislative session. It was during this period that the new loudspeakers were installed, the Q-SYS platform was vastly expanded, and much of the other "heavy lifting" occurred.
Inside the Chamber
Overall, the Chamber is about the size of a medium to large concert hall. This is a very stately facility with ornate trim around the wall and ceiling areas, encompassing more than 100 years of use with little change to the physical structure and architecture. Hence, it was important to implement the AV upgrade without detracting from the character and historical significance of the room. The room's age, historical nature, and naturally poor acoustic qualities created a uniquely problematic challenge for the design and installation of the technology.
The chamber floor has the desk area for the 123 members on the floor of the chamber, surrounded by a brass guard rail, and a centered well podium. The rostrum spans the front of the room facing the members. There is seating along the side walls on four large benches. There are also two large staff workstation desks on either side below the daylight LED video displays (from IRC/Daktronics). These displays are used primarily for voting results, but can also display multimedia or still images. A large wooden "clock tower" behind the Speaker of the House podium rises above the rostrum platform up to nearly the ceiling in the center of the room. Two large motorized screens on each side of the rostrum can be lowered and are housed in decorative boxes. These are Crestron controlled and typically used with video projectors displaying an Elmo high-def document camera or Crestron DigitalMedia presentation graphics / multimedia playback.
A balcony — referred to as "The Gallery" — has seating for 200 guests, allowing the general public to watch proceedings.
The Speakers in the House
Two main customized loudspeaker arrays attached to the custom Daktronics LED voting displays ("scoreboards") on each side wall adjacent to the rostrum were designed by Deliberative Designs and Steve Carter at Columbia, SC's Custom Welding and Fabrication. Custom engineered Tectonic Audio Labs DML loudspeaker panels are affixed to the far left and right sides of the scoreboards. There are three DML panels on each frame, and two Stage Accompany compact ribbon drivers (provided by Tectonic). These loudspeaker systems reside in custom cantilevered arrays. The design facilitates the safe placement of the arrays above people's heads and enables the display door frames to be opened to access all of the electronics behind the displays.
These display / loudspeaker arrays were designed with extensive vibration control to prevent visual distortion artifacts from showing on the LED displays due to speaker vibration. Custom isolating neoprene rubber stand-offs were designed for the weight of the speaker components in the shear direction, and were combined with special 3M vibration isolation adhesive neoprene rubber tape and foam isolation blocks. Both the front and rear of these arrays are open acoustically to work properly with the Tectonic DML panels, which are dipole devices.
Tectonic speakers were selected for their unique form factor and audio performance. The Tectonic flat panel DML design differs substantially from conventional loudspeakers that use uniform pistonic motion to create sound. The primary goal with a conventional loudspeaker design is to ensure the diaphragm does not have any anomalies — i.e., that it does not "break up" in its passband. Breakup, however, is inevitable, so the secondary goal is to move the frequency of this breakup as high as possible so that when it does occur, the crossover filter has significantly reduced its level.
By contrast, distributed mode loudspeaker (DML) technology is designed to break up and not just move as a uniform piston. This break up — i.e., modal behavior, is intentional and engineered to produce a diffuse sound source that correlates at the human ear. Conventional drivers are either point-source or a line-source with fixed size radiators and, as such, exhibit a narrowing pattern at higher frequencies and have strong—both destructive and constructive—interactions with room boundaries. DMLs, however, are a diffuse sound source and produce 165 degrees horizontal and vertical coverage at all frequencies within a range of approximately 90 Hz – 7k Hz. They are highly resistant to disruptive room interactions, especially within the human vocal range. Hence, they are highly intelligible, even in less than optimal acoustic spaces.
"In addition to the main arrays," Schwartz added, "there are two front member fill speakers, attached to the opposite side of the IRC/Daktronics display frames, that extend up to the wall end at the window alcove. Each of these incorporates a single Amina DML panel and a Stage Accompany compact ribbon driver on a truncated Tectonic waveguide cut to size. There are four standard custom-finished Tectonic PL-11 loudspeakers mounted in the window alcoves under the balcony on the side walls that serve as member side fills. These are positioned on custom pan/tilt mountings just below the balcony railing. All speakers are bi-amplified, and are driven by 18 individual QSC power amps located throughout the facility, including CX1100 two-channel, CX168 eight-channel, and CX254 four-channel models."
When queried about his reason for selecting the Tectonic Audio Labs DML loudspeakers, Schwartz offered the following, "When using dynamic mics, we are able to achieve considerably higher gain before feedback with the DML panels as opposed to conventional loudspeaker designs. This, combined with the advanced DSP techniques we utilized, meant we could implement a far louder, far clearer, and far more intelligible system by using the Tectonic DMLs."
On the rear wall at either side of the main entry doors, Schwartz and his team deployed custom rear wall arrays—each consisting of a Tectonic DML panel and a Stage Accompany compact ribbon driver and Stage Accompany waveguide. These are mounted on a custom fabricated pan/tilt aiming device located behind a custom polished brass screen. They are mounted in an alcove with two Sony 4K Laser projectors, which provide the image for the front drop down screens.
Low frequency support is via four QSC KW181 single-18 subwoofers — two per side — and custom finished to match the window alcove paint color. These are mounted in the window alcoves at the balcony level, directly above the main left and right arrays mounted on the LED display frames. A pair of custom-finished Meyer Sound MSL-4 powered High-Q loudspeakers also reside in window alcoves at the balcony level for Gallery sound reinforcement.
Completing the loudspeaker assortment, there are two custom mahogany coaxial wedge loudspeakers (custom manufactured by Deliberative Designs) at the rostrum. These are used for spot monitoring by the Clerk of The House.
Microphones Everywhere
On the input side of the equation, microphones are seemingly everywhere. There are two extended gooseneck hypercardioid Countryman dual element podium mics. One is located at the Speaker of the House's podium on the rostrum and another is used for the members' Well Microphone podium, which is located on the chamber floor near the center front of the rostrum. The reading clerk's position — located to the right of the Speaker of the House at the rostrum — is outfitted with a custom Countryman headset microphone paired with a dual Lectrosonics Digital Hybrid Wireless system. There is also a handheld condenser Lectrosonics wireless transmitter for use during special events, by mobile guest speakers, or to field questions from the gallery or floor of the chamber. These are switched on and off locally via an LED illuminated switch or via Crestron control.
There are 123 member desk microphones located throughout the floor of the Chamber. These are custom dynamic microphones utilizing Shure SM-62 omnidirectional broadcast mics fitted with Beta 57 secondary windscreens. According to Schwartz, "They were chosen for their lack of proximity effect, internal rubber isolation for low handling noise, and omnidirectional pickup pattern. These mics are switched on and off by the Crestron and the Q-SYS systems, either from a large touchscreen controller at the reading clerk's rostrum desk position, or from any computer or tablet connected to the system. For an authorized user, remote control is also available via the Internet or campus-wide intranet."
Of particular note, Schwartz' Deliberative Designs Consulting designed and manufactured custom dual spring-loaded, endless loop mechanical cord reelers for use with the member desk mics. These reelers can extend upwards of eight feet. Whenever a representative picks up a microphone and pulls the mic toward them, the system locks the cable to the desired length when the person stops extending the mic. Upon completion, the cable then retracts with a single tug on the cord and returns into its housing.
Signals for these desk microphones are run approximately 200 feet through high quality individual mic cables to an equipment room on another floor of the statehouse. This is where the main Q-SYS Core processors, input I/O Frames, and standard networked switches are also located.
The system needed to be able to accommodate both normal legislative work, plus any special events that may be required. There are 26 special event microphone inputs, used for joint sessions between the House and the Senate, model student legislatures, and many other functions (such as panel discussions below the rostrum, and/or musical performances by choirs, guest artists, or chamber ensembles). These microphones can be selected via the Q-SYS GUI for hands-off automixing or mixed by a house technician on an iPad or computer. These are switched on and off locally via an LED illuminated switch or via Crestron control.
Inputs, Outputs and Control
Each microphone signal is configured with a Y-splitter and terminated to the same input channel on two separate 16-channel QSC Q-SYS I/O frames, each fitted with four 4-channel studio grade microphone preamps. Due to the high input impedance, it's possible to bridge the microphones to two input frames, only one of which is active at any given time.
On all outputs used in the system, the outputs of two I/O frames are connected directly together, along with the feed wire. This is possible since the I/O frame outputs are relay controlled and only one of the pair of I/O frames' outputs are active at any given time—all under Q-SYS control.
The first I/O frame acts as the primary unit, with the second I/O frame functioning as a redundant backup. If a fault or data packet loss is detected by the Q-SYS system, it will automatically switch to the backup frame without signal interruption. In the event of a non-data equipment failure, the unit can be switched manually to the backup from the User Interface GUI on any remote or local computer connected to the network. The system then automatically sends an email to the techs describing the failure mode, the piece of equipment that failed, it's location, and date / time of the failure, thus providing continuous operation of the sound system while also allowing repair at a convenient time without interrupting the proceedings in the Chamber.
There is a total of 36 16-channel Q-SYS I/O frames used in the system for inputs and outputs (both analog in/out and QSC DataPort channels), in six discreet physical locations around the Statehouse and Chamber. Signals can be sourced from, or synced onto the audio network from each location. Each of the six locations uses a pair of standard network switches, and all are connected with a pair of single mode fiber optic cable strands back to the switches. The output of each Q-SYS I/O frame is a Gigabit Ethernet network (Q-LAN). There are two separate redundant local area network (LAN) connections from each frame: LAN A and LAN B. Each are routed via two dedicated audio VLAN's to a different large "Core" data switch (two stacked switches) with 96-Gigabit Ethernet ports plus eight single mode optical fiber ports for each LAN.
These Core Switches are routed to the two QSC Q-SYS Core 4000 processor via LAN A and LAN B. An external control VLAN network port is also provided to a local Dell control computer, which is used to control the cores from the Crestron system and connected control computers, and to run the Q-SYS Designer Software. Each of the Core DSP processors is capable of up to 1,024 networked audio channels In and/or Out. Identical configuration software runs concurrently on each of the cores, thus enabling immediate changeover in the event of a failure. The networking scheme, named Q-LAN, conforms to the new AES-67 interoperability standard, ensuring future compatibility. All the data switches used are Brocade Networks models and are compatible with Q-LAN.
"One of the key attributes of this system, other than standard Ethernet networked audio and AV connections, is the fact that, with the exceptions of the microphones and reelers, the entire active electronic signal chain is fully redundant," Schwartz explained. "This means that for every device from input to speaker outputs, there are two devices available to perform the intended function. This extends even to amplifiers and loudspeakers. To the House and its members, the net impact is that the system never appears to go down, even if a component fails, it always works"
Bringing it All Together
"With this system, each desk and special input has an extensive series of controls for filtering, equalization, automatic gain control, compressor/limiters, and gain sharing automixer/matrix feeds," Schwartz explained. "The previous system's active feedback reduction system has been maintained, which allows increased system gain before feedback on each microphone. When combined with the inherent advantage of the DML loudspeaker design, an incredible amount of gain can be achieved before the feedback threshold is reached. All outputs also have extensive drive processing, including multi-band dynamics, equalization and notch filtering, protection limiting, metering, etc."
"The Q-SYS platform also provides full Core processing, I/O frame, amplifier, and loudspeaker remote control and status monitoring, as well as the capability for an advanced signal localization technique," he continued. Members are located throughout the large Chamber floor area, but if someone is seated behind and to the right of a member, the sound appears from the direction of where that particular representative is sitting, which gives an aural cue as to their location.
From there, the signal is reinforced throughout the room for maximum intelligibility. The various loudspeakers are positioned throughout the chamber in support of this aural positioning, as well as for stereo imaging when being used with multimedia playback sources. With media playback, a sense of stereo field is maintained, regardless of the listener's position. The system also automatically tracks the ambient noise level in the room, correcting for current ambient noise levels automatically.
In closing, Schwartz offered these final comments, "This has been a massive project, and let's not forget that video, related multimedia support, voting system, fiber optic data networks, streaming, mass communications/emergency notification systems, alarms, signaling bells, live broadcasting, extensive press feed outputs throughout the facility, systems for the hearing impaired, plus campus-wide signal distribution are also an integral part of this project. There were numerous people involved and I want to say thank you to everyone for their expertise and dedication to making it all come together. It's been an honor working with you all."
For more information, visit www.qsc.com


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First Edition of BRUMMM – Motorious Chronicles.Featuring Photography by: Alberto García-Alix, Axel Borchardt, Cédric Dubus, Gary Margerum, Raffaele Paolucci, Polo Garat, Vincent Prat and publishers Hermann Köpf & Christian Eusterhus.
BRUMMM is a bi-annual visual feast for any and every motorcycle lover. The tempting bookazine acts as both an archive and platform for outstanding motorcycle photography: a happening rarely found in the popular magazine world. These pictures convey personal stories, provide exclusive insights into otherwise closed collector garages, preserve archival treasures, or capture events through the eyes of photographers, who possess a notorious passion for purring engines. BRUMMM is a timeless experience, which will be taken from your shelf time and time again.
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Motorola has been on a roll these days - churning out Android phones left, right and center. While the last Motorola mobile device that we reviewed was the high-end Motorola Milestone XT, the Motorola Quench XT3 that we are looking at today belongs to a different and somewhat contradictory niche - entry-level smartphones.
Off the bat, the Quench XT3 bears a certain resemblance to the recently-discontinued Google Nexus One, boasting a metallic gray body with rounded edges. The surface leaves users with a waxy feeling, but nonetheless, protects the phone from grime, scratches and fingerprints, leaving only the screen exposed. The device itself is considerably attractive, light and thin - definitely one that is able to slide easily into your pocket, back or otherwise, easily.
As gleamed from our initial inspection, it comes with a mixture of touch and physical controls, with a trackball thrown in for good measure. The physical buttons are used for making or ending calls; for the rest, look towards the touch interface.
As mentioned, despite having a touch screen, you can only make or end calls with the physical buttons and not by swiping or tapping the screen. Coming from a phone with no physical buttons, this was something that we had to get used to. But overlooking that, the front controls were responsive and well positioned. Generally, the screen responded faithfully to our swipes and taps, but surfing and screen transitions can appear to slow down slightly, though not to an intolerable extent. You can also choose from a few keypad layouts that best suit your typing finger posture by simply, swiping across the screen to run them through.
Those who have used an Android phone will find no problems diving straight into the Quench XT3. Aside from some minor adjustments to controls, the UI is largely similar to that of Android phones from other vendors like HTC or Samsung. Like the HTC Sense UI for example, users are also given screens or pages to customize with your own widgets, shortcuts and folders, albeit with only five instead of the former's seven.
A multimedia phone, it is not. Options for video playback are quite standard, and audio quality was definitely not the highlight here, offering a rather flat, bass-less and average performance. The camera is at best lackluster - in fact, the phone only sports a 3-megapixel camera with no auto-focus capabilities, a bar below the average 5-megapixel shooter usually found outfitted on new phones these days.
However, the LED flash throws quite a distance, and works well in dark places. Unfortunately, we noticed a distinct blue overcast in our images after using flash in well-lit indoor places. Generally, photos turned out rough on the edges, spotting noise and a lack of detail.
To add insult to injury, the physical camera button is a little too small and placed too near the end of the phone for our liking. Shooting feels cramped and not at all ergonomic, but safe to say, you can ultilize the on-screen capture button instead (yes, there are two ways to take a photo). Likewise with video capture: results weren't fantastic with us getting clips that were jittery and blurry.
When it comes to its battery life, the Motorola Quench XT3 was definitely not the cream of the crop. With a lower than average 1270mAh capacity, the phone chugged on for barely a day with 3G switched on (email and social media apps too), and a fair bit of calls and surfing.
The Motorola Quench XT3 is made for a crowd that requires a no-frills, productive and budget-friendly mobile phone. It ranks high on usability with its responsive buttons and screen, but as mentioned earlier, scores lowly on multimedia features and battery life. With a S$468 price tag, this affordable Nexus One look-alike is a good and pragmatic deal.
Introducing the Samsung Galaxy S9 & S9+. The Camera. Reimagined.
Stand to win $200 to splurge on your fav gadgets on iShopChangi!
Here's how to choose the right mobile plan with M1
These ASUS router are Wi-Fi mesh capable with AiMesh


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Release Notes: A new option was added to quickly scan the BBS without logging in, to list any changed files from the command line.
Release Notes: A minor bug in the background colour HTML output was corrected.
Release Notes: A few small bugfixes, and a new "listed directory" option for mview.
Release Notes: Support for RPM packaging was added, along with an installation option which installs an example BBS setup. Other relatively minor code changes have been made.
Release Notes: Some terminal handling improvements, more portability, and an option to turn off colour.
Release Notes: Fixes for some annoying glitches in the editor, a bit of portability, and one or two new features in the editor.
Release Notes: Many bugfixes and several feature additions were made. Everything is now in a CVS tree.


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Eve Tuck and K. Wayne Yang: "Decolonization Is Not A Metaphor"
Here at Turning Wheel Media, we've been thinking about Decolonizing Our Sanghas as a collective expression of the Fifth Precept of Buddhist ethics: avoiding intoxicants. Dharma wisdom advises us to use sobriety, in part, to help ourselves observe the other four ethical guidelines that support a calm mind.
The Five Precepts
- Avoid killing.
- Avoid stealing.
- Avoid engaging in sexual misconduct.
- Avoid lying.
- Avoid intoxicants.
Along the same lines, we're asking ourselves about the ways that colonization, as a process, facilitates the systemic forever-breaking of all the other Precepts: promoting institutional violence, systemic theft, forms of gender oppression (not that others don't exist in non-colonial circumstances), and mass miseducation and outright lies erasing the existence of Native people.
These days it seems like just about anything can be decolonized. Activists (some indigenous, and also a lot of settlers) want to Decolonize Our Diets; Decolonize the City; Decolonize Education; Decolonize Human Rights; Decolonize Yourself. Sounds like an anti-oppression organizer's dream — Decolonize Everything! — but when a term is applied so broadly, what happens to its meaning? What, or who, might get lost, muddled, or minimized?
[W]e have been thinking about what decolonization means, what it wants and requires. One trend we have noticed, with growing apprehension, is the ease with which the language of decolonization has been superficially adopted into education and other social sciences, supplanting prior ways of talking about social justice, critical methodologies, or approaches which decenter settler perspectives. Decolonization, which we assert is a distinct project from other civil and human rights-based social justice projects, is far too often subsumed into the directives of these projects, with no regard for how decolonization wants something different than those forms of justice. Settler scholars swap out prior civil and human rights based terms, seemingly to signal both an awareness of the significance of Indigenous and decolonizing theorizations of schooling and educational research, and to include Indigenous peoples on the list of considerations — as an additional special (ethnic) group or class. At a conference on educational research, it is not uncommon to hear speakers refer, almost casually, to the need to "decolonize our schools," or use "decolonizing methods," or "decolonize student thinking." Yet, we have observed a startling number of these discussions make no mention of Indigenous peoples, our/their struggles for the recognition of our/their sovereignty, or the contributions of Indigenous intellectuals and activists to theories and frameworks of decolonization. Further, there is often little recognition given to the immediate context of settler colonialism on the North American lands where many of these conferences take place.
Of course, dressing up in the language of decolonization is not as offensive as "Navajo print" underwear sold at a clothing chain store (Gaynor, 2012) and other appropriations of Indigenous cultures and materials that occur so frequently. Yet, this kind of inclusion is a form of enclosure, dangerous in how it domesticates decolonization. It is also a foreclosure, limiting in how it recapitulates dominant theories of social change. On the occasion of the inaugural issue of Decolonization: Indigeneity, Education, & Society, we want to be sure to clarify that decolonization is not a metaphor. When metaphor invades decolonization, it kills the very possibility of decolonization; it recenters whiteness, it resettles theory, it extends innocence to the settler, it entertains a settler future. Decolonize (a verb) and decolonization (a noun) cannot easily be grafted onto pre-existing discourses / frameworks, even if they are critical, even if they are anti-racist, even if they are justice frameworks. The easy absorption, adoption, and transposing of decolonization is yet another form of settler appropriation. When we write about decolonization, we are not offering it as a metaphor; it is not an approximation of other experiences of oppression. Decolonization is not a swappable term for other things we want to do to improve our societies and schools. Decolonization doesn't have a synonym.
Our goal in this essay is to remind readers what is unsettling about decolonization — what is unsettling and what should be unsettling.
The Occupy movement for many economically marginalized people has been a welcome expression of resistance to the massive disparities in the distribution of wealth; for many Indigenous people, Occupy is another settler re-occupation on stolen land. The rhetoric of the movement relies upon problematic assumptions about social justice and is a prime example of the incommensurability between "re/occupy" and "decolonize" as political agendas. The pursuit of worker rights (and rights to work) and minoritized people's rights in a settler colonial context can appear to be anti-capitalist, but this pursuit is nonetheless largely pro-colonial. That is, the ideal of "redistribution of wealth" camouflages how much of that wealth is land, Native land. In Occupy, the "99%" is invoked as a deserving supermajority, in contrast to the unearned wealth of the "1%". It renders Indigenous peoples (a 0.9% 'super-minority') completely invisible and absorbed, just an asterisk group to be subsumed into the legion of occupiers.
The point of posting this essay isn't to dictate what counts, or doesn't, under the mantle of decolonization. Rather, we're eager to pass it on (hat tip to Li Morales for first sharing it with us!) so that together, we can all reflect more deeply on this social justice buzzword du jour. Whether or not we agree with Tuck and Yang's arguments, they're essential to consider!
Read the whole thing here and let us know your thoughts! We'd especially love to hear from any of y'all who may have been involved with anti-colonial movements, or Decolonize-themed efforts in your town.
Thanks, BPFers! See you tomorrow!
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Comments (5)
As I understand it, the term "decolonization," as it has been used on this site and in much contemporary political discourse, is usually metaphorical, signifying that sanghas, schools, ghettos, workplaces, and even progressive movements are "like" colonies in that people within them have lost sovereignty, as if they were inhabitants of occupied territories. Instead of having a voice in what happens, they are subject to an external administrative power or an internalized oppressive cultural feature such as racism or patriarchy.
Tuck and Yang, identifying themselves as "an Indigenous scholar and a settler/trespasser/scholar writing together," unconditionally reject any such use of the term, as the title of their article implies. In this view, "decolonization" should mean nothing less than restoring ownership and control of all stolen lands to Indigenous populations. To appropriate the word to describe other processes of ending subjugation, whether by non-native peoples of color, labor, or anti-imperialist coalitions, reinforces settler colonialism. After all, these movements generally demand a "fair share" of wealth and power within a system whose very existence is predicated on invasion of this continent, genocide of its natives, and ongoing marginalization of the survivors. Asking for a bigger slice of stolen pie makes one complicit in the original theft.
"For social justice movements, like Occupy, to truly aspire to decolonization non-metaphorically, they would impoverish, not enrich, the 99%+ settler population of the United States. Decolonization eliminates settler property rights" and "is not obliged to answer questions" such as, "What will happen after?" Wow, pretty strong stuff.
Of course, there are numerous problems with Tuck and Yang's argument, not the least of which is labeling African-Americans and Mexican-Americans as "settlers" ("Now you folks just go on back where you came from"). Nevertheless, I find their objection to the easy use of the D-word as a template to deconstruct any and all social ills to be quite compelling. Their essay brought home to me how strongly Indigenous people feel about the Occupation they still live under, how powerful words are, and how fresh the wounds. I will be using this term very narrowly in the future, but, like Katie, I would like to hear others' thoughts as we write on Decolonizing Our Sanghas.
Touché, Bob! Nice analogy ;-)
What revolution?
Steven Tucker
I read this piece, and can only wonder why it was written. What was the point, the goal? If the goal was to further the possibility of decolonization of North America, it was a monumental waste of time and resources. If it was to make a linguistic point, ditto. If it was to advocate for Native control over land and resources, it was likely counterproductive. After reading this, I wouldn't support the return of an acre of land or an ounce of political power to anyone who was at all affiliated with such a decolonization initiative. This coming from a person who has always believed in the inherent evil of any form of colonizing, resource exploitation, etc. I now see that there is a possible future far more evil than the past in North America, an evil than could out-do the hellish past of colonization: It is called decolonization.
As a Jew, I could not help but forget I was reading about the views of some Native Americans and, at many points in the article, imagine I was reading something from the ancient books of my own people – the books, like Judges, which told of the reasons that Israel fell and the People were sent into exile and persecuted. The decolonialists are in exile, no doubt. And they want Zion returned to them. But just like the ancient Hebrews, their militant belief in their own primacy and their distinct and overtly stated lack of concern for the fate of others makes it unlikely that anyone would take the risk of allowing them to become sovereign and have power over others.
The evils of the past do not justify evils to come. The tyranny visited upon a people in the past should be recognized, repaired as much as possible, and never again committed. It does not justify a tyranny visited upon the ancestors of those tyrants by the ancestors of those who were victimized. It also does not magically create a world where 300,000,000 people can be forcibly removed from a continent, or made to enter a covenant where their fate is not to be known until the covenant is in place. The people advocating such a thing are either insane, have a hidden agenda, or are just bombasts who like to hear themselves talk. They are not possibly rational people who think such a thing could happen.
I own nothing. Most of the people who would be willing to cede property to Natives own nothing. The folks who own it all would kill me as quick as they'd kill anyone if we tried to take away their wealth. And yet, I'm supposed to feel so guilty that I devote my life to helping a group of people who care so little for me that they refuse to tell me what will happen to me if/when they achieve their goals??
Temporal primacy does not make someone the owners of this land, and replacing an empire with a racist, exclusionary tribal oligarchy does not represent justice.
What was their point???


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In recent years there has been increased discussion regarding the role of forgiveness in post-conflict reconciliation. Revenge, if mentioned within this discussion, has often been treated as a separate issue and as the antithesis of forgiveness and reconciliation. In this analysis, reconciliation is viewed as both a short and long term process. This article describes a basic interactive framework, derived from research, that identifies key issues and offers an alternative view of examining old problems and reorganizing priorities to more effectively address sensitive issues underlying the process of political cooperation in post-conflict environments.
Once dismissed as an irrelevant religious concept in a political world, the concept of forgiveness has begun to be increasingly associated with highly secular post conflict reconstruction. As the post Cold War world has splintered into violent wars and persistent low level conflict, its potential for healing civil society has begun to be explored in media, popular, and academic analysis. Despite this increased profile, forgiveness may be one of the least understood and yet potentially necessary acts required for a society to fully break a cycle of violence. The mere fact that it is being considered or discussed implies that extreme suffering has occurred. Given that the most horrendous acts of spiritual, emotional, and physical violence have taken place between the same persons attempting to rebuild a society after conflict, it is logical to ask, how is forgiveness possible? Is it necessary for reconciliation? And most importantly, how do former enemies find a way to live together once again?
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Linda Purl and Bruce Weitz to Star in The Diary of Anne Frank
Brian Scott Lipton • New York City • Feb 19, 2007
The show, based on Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett's Pulitzer Prize-winning drama, tells the true story of a group of Jewish citizens who attempt to hide from the Nazis in an attic during World War II.
In addition to Purl, who will play Mrs. Van Daan, and Weitz, who will play Otto Frank, the cast includes Lauren Patten as Anne and Karyl Lyn Burns as Mrs. Frank. Additional casting will be announced shortly. The creative team includes Thomas Giamario (sets and lighting), Alex Jaeger (costumes), and Thomas J. Valentino, Inc. (sound).
Purl's many stage credits include The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Getting and Spending, The Baby Dance, Dinner with Friends, and The Road to Mecca. Her numerous film and television credits include Mighty Joe Young, Matlock, and Happy Days.
Weitz's stage credits include Death of a Salesman, The Basic Training of Pavlo Hummel, Thieves, and Art. He won the Emmy Award for his portrayal of Mick Belker on the TV series Hill Street Blues, and was also nominated for the miniseries Baby M and the series Midnight Caller.
For more information, call 805-667-2900 or visit www.rubicontheatre.org.
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What is Rolfing® Structural Integration?
Rolfing Structural Integration (SI) is a method of body work that uses hands-on techniques and movement to improve alignment and reduce tension in the body.
Our bodies are a complex web of interconnected relationships that have an optimal organization and way of moving. These relationships can become misaligned by many things, among them injuries, habits, and cultural expectations. We experience the effects as worn out joints, aches and pains, stiffness, poor posture and fatigue.
Rolfing bodywork unravels the areas of tension that contribute to misaligned posture and movement. The Rolfer™manipulates the body's connective tissue, working systematically through layers of tissue to release restrictions and change the way a person stands and moves on a structural level. Different regions of the body are the focus of work over a series of sessions.
People often ask if Rolfing is painful. The purpose of Rolfing is to help the body open up and move more freely. It makes no sense to work in such a way that the client tightens up and withdraws from the Rolfer's touch. Painful work is counterproductive to Rolfing's basic goals.
Why Experience Rolfing SI for Yourself?
The primary goal of Rolfing is to bring the body back to optimal organization in terms of both postural anatomy and functional movement. This happens as the Rolfer helps the client find greater length, space and ease in her or his body. With greater balance and ease in our movements, many aches and pains disappear. People from all walks of life can benefit from Rolfing bodywork, including office workers, athletes, and dancers.
Deb DeAngeles Certified Rolfer™
Deb has been helping people move since 1996, when she received her Associates Degree of Physical Therapy. In physical therapy, she has worked with a wide variety of people: older people who had become debilitated after a long illness; children with conditions ranging from cerebral palsy to traumatic brain injury; and people of all ages recovering from different illnesses, surgeries or accidents.
Deb believes that being human is an amazing adventure. She believes that easy, pain-free movement is possible for each of us. And she believes that Rolfing Structural Integration can be a way to find more ease in our bodies. Deb completed her certification through the Rolf Institute® of Structural Integration in December 2012.
Deb sees Rolfing as a partnership between herself and the client. She is committed to working with people who are invested in their own well-being.
How Can I Get Started?
For more information, or to schedule your sessions, call Deb at (913) 205-6929 or email firstname.lastname@example.com
$100 per session


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Monday 9.30-8
Tuesday 9.30-8
Wednesday 9.30-5
Thursday 9-8
Friday 9-8
Saturday 9-4
The central Library in Huddersfield was opened in 1940 and offers a full range of facilities. The Library is located in the centre of Huddersfield and within easy walking distance of the bus and railway stations. The Local Studies Department is situated on the first floor of the Library.
No education programme in place, but class visits can be arranged by prior appointment and an activity day for children is held once a year.
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From Wool to Cloth
Life and work in textile factories during the Industrial Revolution Read More »
Richard Oastler
Campaigning against the working conditions of children Read More »
Everyday Life in the Industrial Revolution
Changes in daily life as Britain becomes industrialised Read More »
The lives of apprentices in Victorian factories Read More »
Children at Work
Working conditions for children in factories, mills and mines Read More »
Craft Made From Graft
Life and working conditions during the Industrial Revolution Read More »
The Holmfirth Tiger
The story of a circus tiger reared in Holmfirth, in the 1940s Read More »


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Call To Book
The Lynwood Century Freeway Travelodge is centrally located within the Los Angeles area. The Lynwood Century Freeway Travelodge is only a short drive, or quick trip by Metro Train, to LAX, Coliseum, Staples Center, Disneyland, Knotts Berry Farm, Crystal Cathedral, Universal Studios, Los Angeles convention Center, Long Beach Convention Center and many other business and tourist centers. Located next door is the beautiful new Plaza Mexico, which features fabulous shopping and many fine restaurants. Guests of the Lynwood Century Freeway Travelodge appreciate our year-round outdoor heated pool and spa. Our Complimentary Continental Breakfast and Meeting and Banquet facilities are available for your convenience. For our guests convenience we also have bilingual staff - English/Spanish. For our Guest who travel with their laptop computers we have added High Speed Wireless Internet Access.Microwaves And Refrigerators Are Available Upon Request.


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Extra DWI enforcement underway in December
To combat the serious threat of impaired driving on area Scott County roads, Officers, Deputies and State Patrol Officers will conduct extra DWI patrols as part of a Minnesota-wide crackdown throughout December. The timing of the effort is relevant as December is among the deadliest months for alcohol-related crashes and DWI arrests.
The enforcement campaign includes participation from around 400 Minnesota law enforcement agencies, all deploying extra officers to work overtime hours targeting impaired drivers.


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Tour Companies
At My Adventure Travel, we work closely with some of the world s leading tour companies to ensure your holiday is an unforgettable experience.
Thanks to these close working relations, we offer cheap tour deals from a range of companies including large and popular tours, unique and niche tours, small group tours, specialised tours, family tours and a range of other adventures. Whether you re happy to experience the world s much-loved journeys or venture down a path less travelled, our adventure specialists can match you up with a tour company to suit your travel style.
To book a tour or find out more, talk to our adventure specialists on 1300 018 390 and don't forget to ask about our latest specials.


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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: Time-consuming (02/24/11)
TITLE: "Do-gooder Days"
By Helen Curtis
"It's not fair!" Her cries echoed as she walked under the footbridge to Mrs. McKenzie's house. Over the years Lisa had heard people use many other terms to describe the old widow's abode. Hovel, dump and pigsty were some of the less-offensive names. She once heard the church worship leader call it a brothel, but Lisa was never quite certain if this was a literal or figurative description.
And now, here she was being sent there by her mum, on yet another "Christian display of charity." More like another time-consuming errand her mum couldn't squeeze into her over-scheduled "do-gooder' days. And today, of all days, her mum had pounced on her the minute she walked in the door. She knew I had to go to the shops this afternoon. I've been talking about buying that scarf for days! Lisa had other scarves, but she'd never seen anything like the scarf gently draped over the mannequin in Foster's boutique. The intricate pattern had been carefully hand-sewn onto soft, baby-pink angora wool. It was more than just a scarf; it was, in Lisa's eyes, a work of art by a master craftsman, and she wasn't the only one to recognise its beauty. There was no doubt by closing it would be adorning the neck of another.
She soon turned into Mrs. McKenzie's street. Her stomach lurched as she found number 19 and opened the creaky gate. A crumbling cement footpath lead her past weeds resembling small trees and up to a veranda with most of the tiles cracked or missing, and toward the "crazy lady's" abode. OK Lisa, all you have to do is be polite, give her the food and then get out, fast!
Lisa heard footsteps approach the door, accompanied by the jingling of her mangy silky terrier's registration tags. One lock, a chain, another deadlock and then, finally, the door creaked to life.
"Hello love! Thanks so much for dropping my shopping around. Stupid foot; gives me grief in this colder weather. Got time for a cuppa?"
On entering Mrs McKenzie's house Lisa was shocked. It was not the filthy, dank, dungeon-esque lair she and her ignorant friends had unquestioningly believed it to be. It was, in fact, not unlike her own home, with friendly floral patterns and myriad photos along every wall. The aroma of "proper coffee" and freshly baked muffins permeated her senses, and Lisa suddenly felt a deep sense of shame.
"Through here darl." Lisa's thoughts returned to this mysterious and so misrepresented lady. How had they gotten it so incredibly wrong? As if reading her thoughts, Mrs McKenzie spoke. "It's a bit different on the inside, isn't it? I really should get out and clean up the front, but my bones won't co-operate with me! Now tell me, do you want chocolate dusting on your cappuccino?" Lisa sat at the ornately carved table, humbly accepting the offerings of her gracious host, completely unprepared for what was about to transpire.
"Lisa, do you believe in the Holy Spirit? I believe in Him and about a week ago he told me I would have a visitor, and that I should use every spare moment to prepare something special for her." Lisa was more than a little perplexed at this, and held her breath when this lady, surprisingly a little like her own mother, returned from a drawer carrying a parcel wrapped in tissue-paper. "I believe this is for you, Lisa Mitchell." Mrs McKenzie's smile beamed as Lisa gently removed the wrapping, barely able to register its contents. "What?! Um, how could you possibly have known about this…and what do you mean 'prepare' it…?" Suddenly, Lisa's heart quickened and she knew she'd discovered the creator of the scarf in Foster's. But the one she now held, which had been painstakingly fashioned just for her, was exquisite.
"This would have taken you hours to make." The tears in Lisa's eyes were full of many emotions; shame for years of judging this beautiful lady, gratitude for her mum's heartfelt need for social justice, and above all a renewed sense of faith in Jesus Christ.
Mrs McKenzie took a sip of her coffee and smiled. "I learned a long time ago, Lisa, our time will always be consumed; the real question is, do we squander it on earthly pleasures that will not last, or bring nourishment that will last for all of eternity?"
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text: In issue #2, safe in sanctuary, Constantine is forced to relinquish the temptations of his hot and deviant nurse and limp back onto his beloved London streets only to find that things are changing fast in the City of Demons. Check out the cover and a few pages below! [gallery link="file"]


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Blumenthal looks forward to new chairmanship
Updated 11:49 pm, Sunday, March 16, 2014
A U.S. Senate subcommittee that's in charge of procurement for most of the military's air and land vehicles is now under the guidance of Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., who says he is looking forward to the new chairmanship assignment.
"This committee is in charge of procurement of everything that flies in the air or travels on land," Blumenthal said, "and it will become increasingly important as we draw down from Iraq and Afghanistan."
The Armed Services Airland Subcommittee, which Blumenthal now heads, has jurisdiction over matters relating to many Army, Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps programs, as well as research, development and procurement matters involving these military branches.
More InformationArmed Services Airland Subcommittee
Part of the U.S. Senate Committee on Armed Services
Responsibilities: Army programs (less special operations forces), Air Force programs (less strategic forces, strategic airlift, and special operations programs), and Navy and Marine Corps tactical aviation programs
Special additional area: National Guard and Reserve equipment
Oversight of budget accounts: Army and Air Force research and development and procurement, and Navy and Marine Corps research and development and procurement and procurement related to tactical aviation
"It has a very strategic mission because air superiority is so important, not only with regard to the Joint Strike Fighter, but also helicopters and their role in special operations," Blumenthal said. "This will become increasingly important moving forward.
"And it means a lot to Connecticut -- when you visit Sikorsky, you only see the tip of the iceberg. Literally thousands of parts and component suppliers and machine shops all over the state. People don't realize how many people are needed to build a helicopter."
The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter is important to Connecticut, too, he notes; it's powered by a turbofan F135 engine built by Pratt & Whitney in East Hartford.
Blumenthal, who replaces Sen. Joe Manchin, R-W.Va., as chairman, said the nation is looking at a "more and more asymmetrical" threat.
"We will not have the massive land invasions of the past," he said. "We'll be focusing on very strategic and targeted threats to the security of the United States, as we did with the capture of Osama bin Laden."
Blumenthal will also continue to chair the Subcommittee on Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety and Security, which is part of the Commerce Committee.
"That's a very important subcommittee because it has jurisdiction over Metro-North, and all other rail transportation, as well as roads and bridges," he said.
Blumenthal's new subcommittee has no jurisdiction over the procurement of submarines, however.
"That subcommittee is headed by Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.), so you can be sure he'll be looking out for us there," Blumenthal said, noting that the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics in Groton employs scores of workers who live in Rhode Island.
Blumenthal will no longer chair the Judiciary Subcommittee on Oversight, Federal Rights and Agency Actions as a result of this new chairmanship, he said.
firstname.lastname@example.com; 203-330-6403; http://twitter.com/johnburgeson


text:
Product Description
Office star Patterson 18 Inch Solid Black Metal Backless Stool Set Of 2 PTR3018A2-3
Easily placed along a bar, around a kitchen table or even a conference room, the sleekly designed OSP Designs Patterson Metal Stool is both minimal and eye catching. Expertly designed with a handle in the seat, this piece features a, powder coated finish in four funky colors. A modern barstool is a cheap and easy way to give any space an immediate face-lift, while providing your home with extra seating.
- Manufacturer: Office star
- Category: Stool
- Sub Category: 4-Pack, Fully Assembled, Stool
- Outer Material: Powder Coated Steel
- Primary Style: Modern
- Secondary Style: Industrial
- UPC Code: 090234171690
- Country Of Orgin: China
- Assembled Dimensions: 15W x 15D x 18H Inches
- Carton Dimensions: 17L x 16W x 25H Inches
- Seat Height Maximum: 18
- Weight Capacity : 250
- Gross Weight: 22
- UPS Weight: 34
- Cube Feet: 3.935
- Freight Class: 150
- Assembly Required: No
- Greenguard: No
- Feature:
- Durable Steel Frame
- Powder Coated Finish with Multiple Color Options
- Stackable for Easy Storage
- Fully Assembled
- 15"L x 15"W x 18"H7 lbs per Chair
Additional Information
Additional Information
|Free Shipping
|Delivery Type
|Fedex/UPS Drop off Delivery (If bought alone ) without Appointment / For large quantity, LTL Curbside Delivery with appointment
|Tolix Inspired
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|2-3 Weeks
|Office Star
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Alpe d'Huez
Earth : Europe : France : Southeastern France : Rhône-Alpes : Alpe d'Huez
Alpe d'Huez is a city the in French Alps. Besides being a winter ski resort, Alpe d'Huez is a Mecca for cycling fans as in many years one of the most important stages of the Tour de France ends at the ski station.
Get in
Alpe d'Huez is southeast of Grenoble. Head south from Grenoble on the E712 to Le Pont-de-Claix, take the D1085 heading east and then join the D1091. From the other direction, you can take to D1091 from Briançon.
A good way to get to the top of Alpe d'Huez on Tour de France race day is to drive in the morning to Oz en Oisans and ride the ski lift. It goes up to the top of the mountain and then back down into Alpe d'Huez. The lifts runs again after the stage to take the fans back to Oz en Oisans.
For a taxi in Alpe d'Huez, try Accueil Allo Taxi on +33476802900, Chalvin Stephane on +33476803344, or Alp Taxi on +33476807243.
Get around
The road the cyclists take is approximately 9 miles (or 13 km) long and consists of 21 hairpin turns. The road is packed with cycling fans, as many as 500,000 of them every time the Tour de France passes through.
For fans of cycling history, a unique feature of Alpe d'Huez is that each of the 21 hairpin turns is numbered from 21 (at the bottom) to 1 (at the top). Each of these numbered signs also has listed the names of one or two of the winners of the stage to Alpe d'Huez and the year they won the stage.
Get out


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(IBM-FO-019) Section 15, Functions and Operators on Sequences: There should be a "deep-distinct" function that eliminates duplicate items from sequences. Duplicate atomic values should be defined by the "eq" operator. Duplicate nodes should be defined by fn:deep-equal(). In the case of duplicate nodes, the node that is retained should be implementation-dependent. This function is needed by queries that need to perform grouping where the grouping-key is a node (for example, grouping by <address> that has subelements <street> and <city>, or grouping by <author> that has subelements <first-name> and <last-name>.) --Don ChamberlinReceived on Friday, 27 February 2004 20:52:54 UTC
This archive was generated by hypermail 2.3.1 : Wednesday, 7 January 2015 15:45:18 UTC


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Lady Anne Clifford, a favorite in Queen Elizabeth I's court, was no shrinking violet, and was, in fact, one of the earliest feminists. Her 600,000-word manuscript, Great Books of Record, is set to be released in a new, complete edition.
The newly-transcribed work by Dr Jessica Malay, a Reader in English Literature at the University of Huddersfield, documents Clifford's struggle to inherit castles and villages across northern England. Malay said: "Lady Anne's Great Books of Record challenge the notion that women in the 16th and 17th centuries lacked any power or control over their own lives. There is this misplaced idea that the feminist movement is predominantly a 1960s invention but debates and campaigns over women's rights and equality stretch back to the Middle Ages."


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If you are confused by this blog's title, it is a phrase I heard recently from my niece. We were talking about vacation and she said, "Yep, August is the Sunday of the months as it is the time to relax." What do I do to relax? I like to go to movies just like 58% of the 50+ (see our fact sheet below) and Woody Allen's new movie Blue Jasmine is a must see Movie for Grownups. I love Broadway shows and so do 48% of my peers. My most recent Broadway show was Tom Hanks in Lucky Guy. Hanks, in my opinion, deserves his status as "Hollywood Royalty."
Like the majority of my peers, I use the internet as my chief source to plan my weekend activities.
Like the majority of my peers, I use the internet as my chief source to plan my weekend activities. In fact, I get weekly emails from a local movie chain with the trailers from the 15 current shows and I also get several weekly emails from Broadway ticket sellers. But the internet really can suck up time. I find myself browsing through flash sale sites (boy, can you get great deals on stuff you never knew you needed). There is a site with the tag line "the most beautiful things on earth" that I could easily comb through for hours on end. Another form of entertainment for me clearly is web browsing!
When I tire of browsing the internet, I turn to TV, but for me it really is not a primary source of entertainment like it used to be. I don't care for reality shows and more television seems to be devoted to that genre. Comedy, drama, and sci-fi are the top movie categories for the 50+ and I like those TV categories as well. I get comedy and sci fi combined by watching the "Big Bang Theory (BBT)." I never tuned in until my niece lived with me two years ago and asked me to switch it on. There is a cable channel that plays hours of BBT reruns each evening and two years later I am still catching up. Drama is also a top category for the 50+ and who doesn't like Downton Abbey? As we approach season four, we all want to know how Lady Mary will grieve over the loss of her beloved husband in a tragic car accident-clearly an evening soap opera at its best!
Books don't appear on the fact sheet below, but I do get great pleasure in reading. I still love to turn the page of a hard cover book. My favorite books are romance, again in the top five movie categories. It's fun to roam the huge book aisle at Costco while I eat their tasty food samples. However, on my weekly train rides I see that almost all folks have turned to e-readers; in fact, 20% of the 50+ use e-readers. Adoption has almost doubled in the past two years, and while they are less versatile than tablets, their cost, simplicity, and ability to accommodate folks with vision or dexterity problems make them a good choice.
So many fun activities to do and so little time to do them in…
More on Becky: Becky is AARP's Senior Vice President of Research & Strategic Analysis, and is focused on fostering understanding of the interests and concerns of people age 50-plus and their families. Before coming to AARP, Becky served as the Vice President of Global Market Research & Guest Satisfaction for Starwood Hotels & Resorts. In her spare time, she likes visiting her niece in Ohio, gardening and collecting American art and antiques.


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Carlsbad Caverns brings United States and Mexico teachers together.
Quick Facts
A Call to Action
- Action Item:
- Live and Learn
- Year Accomplished:
- 2012
Carlsbad Caverns National Park hosted an international teacher workshop to bring local and Mexico teachers together to learn about the Chihuahuan Desert. This desert is a valuable and present resource for the teachers in both countries to highlight in their classrooms. During the workshop, the teachers were exposed to a variety of public lands and were given special presentations about them. The participants were given curriculum guides full of activities they can use in their classrooms. During the workshop, teachers were able to put into practice some of the activities from those curriculum guides. The workshop also allowed the teachers from both countries to interact, share ideas and learn about education in a different country. This was a fun, hands on experience in which teachers were able to learn about deserts and caves and are now better equipped to incorporate outdoor learning experiences to teach their students.


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Rob Ford is deeply unpopular in downtown Toronto -- and that will hurt his re-election chances
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Recent polls show that Rob Ford is, as he's been for the last couple of years, incredibly unpopular with downtown Toronto residents. With an election campaign on the horizon, he should be worried about this.
At first blush, it seems fair to assume that Ford shouldn't really care about his downtown support. The shorthand version of the "how Ford got elected" story usually goes like this: progressive downtown was against him, but the suburbs of Toronto liked his conservative message. Ford won because the total population of Scarborough, North York and Etobicoke is bigger than the population of what might be considered "downtown" -- the old pre-amalgamation City of Toronto and the urbanish borough of East York.
But that story is too simplistic. Ford, contrary to popular belief, was not regarded by downtowners as some unelectable villain during the 2010 municipal campaign. A lot of downtown residents actually liked his message, which wasn't so much "suburbs rule, downtown drools" as it was about tweaking a desire to have a mayor who just focused on saving money instead of embarking on elaborate city building projects that, the narrative went, always went over budget and generally made traffic/everything worse.
The reality is that Ford managed to get 29% of the total popular vote in the wards that make up the old City of Toronto and East York. Of the 383,501 city-wide votes that brought Ford to office, 77,173 came from what you could fairly call "downtown." (We can debate endlessly the definition of "downtown" -- I'm just going to use the term as a shorthand for "the old City of Toronto & East York" in this article). Ford, despite running a far more divisive and suburban-focused campaign, actually managed to get slightly more votes in downtown wards than John Tory did as a mayoral candidate in 2003.
In other words, Ford was actually pretty popular downtown. Not as popular as opponent George Smitherman, sure, but popular enough to make a respectable showing -- and popular enough to handily beat the more progressive and urban-minded Joe Pantalone in every ward but one. (Pantalone beat Ford -- but still came second to Smitherman -- in Ward 19, which Pantalone had represented as councillor for years. The margin between Pantalone and Ford was just over 1,000 votes.)
But Ford's checkered record in office -- both on the budget and, you know, with other stuff -- has made a repeat performance in downtown wards impossible. In recent polls by Forum Research, Ford's downtown support in hypothetical races against a variety of opponents was universally bad. His best showing is 22% support, but he only gets to that level in a hypothetical one-on-one race against arch-conservative Coun. Denzil Minnan-Wong. That would be kind of like an inverted Sophie's Choice for a lot of voters.
His worst showing comes in a poll about a hypothetical four-way race between Ford, Olivia Chow, John Tory and Karen Stintz. In that configuration, Ford only manages to get 12% support downtown.
These are terrible numbers, and they make Ford's path to victory much harder than it was in 2010.
To illustrate, here are some graphs. The first shows the actual results from the 2010 election, with vote totals divided by area of the city. Again, note that the downtown support was not an insignificant part of Ford's victory.
Now let's travel through a wormhole to an alternate universe where Ford only managed to get 20% of the Toronto & East York vote. That would mean he'd have gotten 22,000 fewer votes. If we distribute those votes roughly proportionally to opponents Smitherman and Pantalone, Ford's margin of victory over Smitherman goes from about 12 percentage points to just seven.
But 20% is actually an optimistic estimation of what Ford might expect to get in terms of his support downtown in 2014. If we take his downtown support down to a hypothetical 12% and redistribute the votes, the 2010 mayoral results look like this:
At just 12% support in Toronto & East York, Ford's landslide victory becomes a squeaker, edging out Smitherman by just a few percentage points city-wide: 42% to 39%.
This all adds up to a huge vulnerability for Ford. An opponent who can nurture a strong downtown base of support and deliver enough votes in the suburbs to prevent Ford from increasing his 2010 levels will have a very good chance of beating him. To do that, I'd suggest jumping on key issues that are sure to win downtown support -- like opposing the expansion of the island airport and closing the door for good on the casino question -- and focus heavily on fair and accurate criticism of the mayor's fiscal record.
The mayor, on the other hand, has got to increase his support in the suburbs even more if he wants to secure a safe path to reelection. That means pandering. If the last election wasn't really about pushing the divide between downtown and the suburbs, this one sure could be.
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