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The ability of Sachin Tendulkar to appeal to top brands will be 'seriously hurt' by his retirement, it has been claimed, with the India superstar not having done enough to reinvent himself.
Tendulkar revealed at the end of Mumbai Indians' triumphant IPL campaign that he will retire from T20 cricket, and the 40-year-old appears to be heading towards the illustrious career in all formats.
The iconic batsman does, however, remain a brand favourite in India - along with Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan - although Tendulkar is set to see his his position affected when he ends his playing days for good.
"Sachin's brand equity will get seriously hurt post his retirement because he has not done much to reinvent his brand," Shailendra Singh, joint managing director of Percept told dnaIndia.
Having enjoyed a near monopoly of sponsorship deals over the past two decades, Tendulkar is now being overlooked more regularly by brands in favour of the arguably more marketable MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli.
It may not all be bad news for Tendulkar, however, with some believing his reputation will see him earn further deals post-retirement - with the Test-runs record holder still holding a huge appeal for much of the population in India.
"You cannot expect a youth-driven cola brand to approach Sachin, but his credibility makes him an ideal face for a brand looking for someone whose name stands for security," said Atul Kasbekar, CMD of Bling Entertainment.
"So unlike his predecessors, Sachin will continue to have brands. So while there will be a slight dip, it cannot be a complete full stop. The enigma of Sachin Tendulkar is enduring, so it's not something that will suddenly go invisible."


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A survey released on Friday shows that only 4 percent of Jewish Israelis believe President Obama's policies are more pro-Israel than pro-Palestinian. Fifty-one percent believe that his policies are more pro-Palestinian than pro-Israel. Thirty-five percent believe Obama is neutral and 10 percent declined to express an opinion. No one, I hope, thought that the question presented a "false choice."
The reactions to these results are rather amusing. According to the Jerusalem Post, the left — Meretz and Peace Now — argued that the survey shows Israelis do not yet realize the potential benefits of the regional peace initiative that Obama is advocating. However, its leaders expressed confidence that they eventually would. Peace Now secretary-general Yariv Oppenheimer said what matters most at this stage of the peace process is Obama's reputation in the Arab world, and not in Israel.
This is what's known as whistling through the graveyard. Obama's "peace initiative" is probably a non-starter as long as most Israelis think he's pro-Palestinian.
For the Palestinian reaction, the Jerusalem Post turned to Chicago-based Palestinian commentator Ray Hanania. According to Hanania, Israelis might have assumed wrongly that Obama would be pro-Israel because he shared a name with Defense Minister Ehud Barak.
In a more plausible account, Arye Eldad, a representative of the right-wing National Union party, stated:
Four percent of the public evidently didn't understand the question. If they did, 99.9% would say that he is extremely anti-Israel. The only Israelis who would say he is pro-Israel are those who join Fatah and call for anti-Israel boycotts.
Finally, Likud's Danny Danon expressed his hope that Obama's "one-sidedness" would derail the Middle East peace process, because Israelis would urge Prime Minister Netanyahu to reject Obama's pressure. Dannon pretty much nailed it when he said:
If at first we thought Obama was omnipotent, we see polls in Israel and in the US that the magic and nice words have finally begun to wear off. Obama's extremism against Israel has united the population from center to Right behind Netanyahu.

subset: commoncrawl


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Throughout this guide, i'll discuss what is needed for a game world to progress, as well as skills that are needed for such things.
1. Basic Development Skills
To make a game, the first think you need is to decide on which programming language to go with. Since this is the PHP Forum, most of what i'll talk about is PHP and other web based languages, though games can be developed in practically ANY language.
1.1 Coming up with an idea
To make a game, you first need an idea of what it is you want to build. For example, is the game going to be based on an island, or in the far reaches of space? You need to know where it takes place before you start anything else, as it influences your decisions.
For example, in Star Wars, a lightsaber isn't very useful if the movie was made around ship battles instead of inside the ship.
An idea for a game should be something unique. If there's already a game out there with the idea you want, then you need to really promote it for it to be successful, especially if it's based off of player versus player interactions.
1.2 PvP versus PvE
In any game, there's one of three ways to do it, either PvP, PvE, or a combination of both. To help you decide, here's a list of them:
1.2.1 PvP (Player versus Player)
PvP is a biggie in the game world, and also requires the most knowledge to make successfully. While usually combined with PvE, it can sometimes be used by itself. In PvP games, the game itself is based on Player interaction where one player is up against another player. For example, oGame, a popular Space game, is pure PvP. The entire universe runs on players attacking each other, banding together into alliances, and helping out other players that are your allies.
While pure PvP can be fun to some, for others it's too fast paced and unforgiving, which leads us to our next one.
1.2.2 PvE (Player versus Environment)
In PvE games, a player plays against the computer. Think of single player in your favorite game, that's what this is. While there may be interactions, it's usually with an AI (or Artificial Intelligence) that responds to certain inputs with certain outputs (think of it as a math function. If you put in 2, you'll get out 4.). Many times what the player says or does can affect the outcome of his game (once again, think of a game you've played that has multiple endings (Fable for me)).
1.2.3 PvP & PvE
Many successful games combine both PvP and PvE environments to make a game for players that want to do both. Think of very popular games such as Eve
Online and World of Warcraft. It's up to the player to determine which he wants to play, though they can switch back at any time. For example, in WoW (the common abbreviation for World of Warcraft), players usually start off with PvE elements to level up and unlock new abilities. Then, at higher levels, they can play in PvP matches and try to beat other players characters (with their consent of course).
1.3 Calculations
All games need some type of calculations, whether they're simple or complicated, that's up to you. Any game that has damages, luck, or anything else needs a type of calculation.
Calculations usually use a LOT of math and can take a while to perfect. Don't be afraid to ask for help, DIC is here for that, and as long as you're trying, DIC will be there for you.
Calculations can raise in simplicity from adding, multiplying, etc., all the way up to exponents, functions, trigonometry, etc.. For example, in a baseball game you would need Geometry and Trigonometry to deal with the shape that makes up the baseball diamond. To make it lifelike you would require very complicated algorithms that make use of actual trigonometric functions.
2. Getting the game down
Now that you have a general idea of what you want the game to be, now you need to work on actually making it. If you don't know a programming language, stop right here and go to either W3Schools or Tizag and start learning. Games are an advanced step of programming which requires many of the languages functions, and should not be undertaken by novices.
2.1 Where to start
Where to start is relative to who you are. I know programmers that start with the Database first, and I know ones who start with the scripts. I start with the scripts, and edit the database as I go along to reflect what i've added.
2.1.1 Functions
Functions are the backbone of any well programmed and methodically laid out game. Functions are scripts of program that you use multiple times, and are needed if you use OOP (Object Oriented Programming).
Functions themselves are usually in an included file, to make the code on the actual page easier to read.
2.1.2 Scripts
Scripts are definitely needed for any type of game. They include hard coded things that the player can do, as well as security precautions to protect your database. Just remember that the Database is accessed through your scripts, and that everything needs to be sanitized before it becomes introduced to your database.
2.1.3 Database
The database is the main element of the game, as it stores data to be recalled at another time. Databases can be hacked, however, so i would suggest backing it up daily if possible.
An actual database consists of Tables (which hold rows and columns). The rows are what contains the actual data, and the columns declare what that data is. In a table there's several types that you can declare for it, so make sure that you're using the correct type. For example, if you're storing a true or a false, why use a varchar that can store anything? Just make it a Boolean expression.
2.2 Aesthetic Improvements
The main part of a game is how it looks. if it's a simple text based game with no images, most modern day players would choose another game that is more aesthetically pleasing to them. While the old MS DOS programs that were pure text were nice, and usually had better stories than most modern day games i've played, The gaming Genre has changed from the story of the game to how it looks. Breathtaking cinematics in games such as Final Fantasy have changed gaming forever.
So why have a game that is only text?
2.2.1 Photoshop
Photoshop is the main program for most developers for graphics. It's relatively easy to learn, and does a lot of the work for you. While having a rather large price tag, there's many tutorials online to get you easily started.
2.2.2 Gimp
Gimp is basically a free version of Photoshop. While not designed by the same company, Gimp aims to take out Photoshop and has many of the same features (though it also lacks many).
2.2.3 Blender
Blender differs from the other two in that it produces three-dimensional images (that's right, 3D). Blender is also another free program, and while I don't know many developers that need 3D art, it's worth mentioning to those of you who want that extra aesthetic "kick" to your game.
3. Progressing the game world
All game worlds need to move along, especially if you're making a PvP game where players from around the world can join.
3.1 CronJobs
If you're making the game Web Based, than you can make use of something on most servers: Cronjobs. These are used to execute certain scripts at certain times (IE: every minute, every 5 minutes, every 15 minutes, hourly, daily, Etc.).
If you're making a game that has ranking, then ranking updates can be daily. If you're making one with resources, you might want it to be done every couple of minutes.
3.2 Another Method
While cronjobs are nice, if your server doesn't support them, or you can't figure them out, there IS another option, which i'll try to explain as best I can.
Think of it this way: If no one is online in the game, does anything HAVE to update? You might be saying yes: Resources. But you're wrong. Resources would only need to be update when someone would see them.
So, if you add a time column to your database, and store the last timestamp when it was update, all you need to do is make a script that will update it when it needs to be updated.
For example, lets say you add turns every 5 minutes. A player logs on at 3:00 PM. He plays until 3:20 PM. That means he has updates from 3:00, 3:05, 3:10, 3:15, and 3:20. Now, if he logs on again at 5:00 pm, he would be missing the time from 3:20 to 5:00, which is 20 updates. Using my method, the script would see that he is missing 20 updates, and would account for that, adding in his 20 updates.
Just think: What's he gonna do with his resources while he's offline?
4. Adding Extra Elements
While the game is now complete (or at least it is in your mind), you might want to add more elements to it. For example, since PHP is Server Side, maybe you want to add in a client side language (think Javascript) that can change things. For example, wouldn't it be really nice to have the server time constantly update without refreshing the page?
5. Tips
- Don't expect your game to take off immediately. Every website takes a while to get going, but if you have a nice game going, it will grow and get much larger than it started as.
- Don't be afraid to sink some money into it. Few of us are a jack of all trades, and many of us are one trick ponies. What i'm saying is you probably can not do everything yourself. For example, I am horrible at graphic arts. I know how to use Photoshop, I just don't have the eye for it.
- Search Engine optimization is a must. This makes it easier for the search engines (google, yahoo, bing) to cache your page and make it available to people searching.
- Keywords should be added throughout the page. Don't add in junk keywords that don't emphasize your game.
- Above all: Have Fun! You're making a GAME, it should be fun. If you find yourself getting stressed out, then take a break. Rome wasn't built in a day, and if you're developing a game on your own, it will take a while. most of the games out there were not made by one person.


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In-line duct fans improve ventilation and temperature control without major system rework or expense. Can be installed at any angle, and engineered for quiet operation. Easy installation for metal or flex duct. The in-line duct fans can be speed controlled using solid-state speed control.
— Ships from HF: OR, CA, CO, MI, PA USA.


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- GOSH - DARLING: Is a very pale pinky peach nude colour, it's creamy and looks lovely on my lips teamed with a heavy smokey eye and any lipgloss.
- MAC - CREME D'NUDE: Is my favourite nude lipstick as it goes with anything, it's more peach than pink, and ever so creamy because of the creme sheen formula.
- MAC - HUE: Is a pink toned nude and I love wearing it during the day.
- REVLON - NUDE ATTITUDE: Is a peach toned matte nude, perfect for when you don't want to draw attention to your lips. It's also warmly pigmented enough to wear during the day.
- RIMMEL - NUDE DELIGHT: This one is actually my mums but I keep stealing it from her, it's a gorgeous peach toned creamy nude, works well during the day for even the palest skin tones.
- BODY SHOP - #46: This is the darkest nude I own, it's very peach toned and ever so creamy, this looks gorgeous with just mascara and eyeliner, no need for a smokey eye.
I 'think' I want Mac "Peachstock" lipstick to add to my collection, but I will have to compare it to the Bodyshop and Rimmel ones to see if it's similar. If they are different, then Peachstock WILL be mine. :)
See swatches below.
My favourite lip glosses to team nude lips with are the ones pictured below, this was hard to choose as I own SO much more lipgloss than I do lipstick.
- MAC - (LE) EMBER GLOW: Is the latest lipglass addition to my collection, it's such a beautiful peach colour that will work well with Body Shop #46, Gosh Darling or even on its own.
- MAC - UNDERAGE: Is a pinky peach nude lipglass and looks beautiful teamed with any nude lipstick or worn on its own as it's SO pigmented, love it!
- MAC - C-THRU: Is a peach toned nude lipglass and looks great teamed with any nude lipstick.
- MAC - (LE) ELLE: This looks pink or a caramel colour depending on the light, it's a very pretty lipglass that gets lots of attention even when worn on its own.
- ILLAMASQUA - EXPLODE: Is from the Dystopia collection, it looks white but has a pearly pinky lilac sheen, it looks gorgeous worn on its own or teamed with any nude lipstick.
- MAC - MORNING GLORY: This lustre glass has lilac and pink sparkles and creates a lovely mauve type finish when teamed with Creme d'nude, I love it!
- MAC - (LE) KITTY KOUTURE: This dazzle glass is a pale light pinky white with pink sparkles, it creates high shine to wherever it's added, I tend to use it on the centre of my lips.
- MAC - BABY SPARKS: This dazzle glass is pink with pink and blue sparkles, it looks gorgeous teamed with Gosh Darling.
- NARS - TURKISH DELIGHT: Is a beautiful milky pale pink colour with no shimmer, it's probably my favourite lip gloss. It looks amazing teamed with anything or on its own.
- BENEFIT - DIDN'T HEAR IT FROM ME: This is my most purchased lip gloss, I have gone through about 10 tubes of it. This was the only lip product I would take with me on holiday in the past and I would use it every night. It's a milky pale peach that is quite simialr to Underage. It looks gorgeous on its own.
See swatches below.
I decided to reorganise my lip products again as the way it was before wasn't that practical, it was nice as everything was laid out but it got a bit confusing in the mornings. This time I organised them all by colour. I am such a freak I know. :)
TIP: Ladies do NOT keep products that you never use, they will just take up space, expire and shadow products that you love. Pass them on! I only ever keep products I use regularly.
My top 5 nude lip products that I would recommend are:
- Mac - 'Creme d'nude' lipstick
- Mac - 'Hue' lipstick
- Mac - 'Underage' or Nars 'Turkish Delight' lipgloss (They are pretty similar!)
- Mac - 'Ember Glow' lipglass
- Mac - 'Morning Glory' lustreglass
But I LOVE everything I included in this post, so I want to include them all! :(
I am planning on doing this kind of post for pinks, corals/reds and brown lip products too! Yay or nay?
Disclaimer: The body shop and Illamasqua products were sent to me, I was not paid to talk about them & I am not affiliated with them. This is my honest opinion as always.


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Here's a checklist for college students living on a limited budget — start brain; write words; pick up $6,000 in winnings.
But you better get moving if you want the cash. The deadline for the Future of Southern Agriculture Student Essay Contest is rapidly approaching.
The essay contest, sponsored by Syngenta Crop Protection and Farm Press Publications, is open to all students enrolled at a university with an accredited agriculture program and will award a total of $20,000 to winning entries — two $6,000 winners and two $4,000 winners.
This year's essay subject focuses on water management and conservation in Southern agriculture.
Participating universities have been divided into two regions. Region I includes Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia (south of I-64). Region II includes Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri (south of I-70), New Mexico, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas.
One undergraduate essay and one graduate essay from each region will advance to the national final. Of the four finalists, the undergraduate essay and the graduate essay writers with the highest cumulative score will be awarded $6,000, and the runners up will each receive $4,000.
To enter, submit an essay of 750 to 1,000 words on the following subject: Farmers are under constant pressure to produce more food, feed and fiber with fewer resources. A prime example of a precious resource that continues to diminish in supply in some areas is water. The droughts of recent years and increased demand for water have forced some Southern producers and the industry in general to increase focus on conservation and sustainability. Describe how the Southern farmer and the agricultural industry as a whole can more effectively manage water usage in growing and processing food, feed and fiber. Who (growers, government regulatory agencies, commodity organizations, seed companies, others?) will motivate these changes and how?
Essays and entry forms must be submitted electronically. For complete information on the contest go to www.FutureofSouthernAg.com. For a list of grand prize and honorary prize winners, check the site after Aug. 18. Contest information and links can also be found on FaceBook at http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=60127478560
Essays are being accepted online now through April 15, 11:59 p.m. CST.
Judging will take place May through early July, and winners will be announced in August.


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Author Notes: My mother was the saddest person I ever knew. Life and everything in it failed her utterly. I've never understood fully the roots of her disappointment, though heaven knows I tried. Nonetheless, one of my best memories of her is this cake.
My mother, Marilyn Joan, known as Joan, grew up on a farm in the general area of Fenton, Michigan. On a neighboring farm lived a woman by the name of Belle Foley. Over the years, I've nurtured an image of a woman described by my father, who came to know her, as warm and smiling.
This is the cake she taught my mother to make. It was always our go to cake for anyone's birthday when my sister and I were children, then eventually for our children and their friends as we grew our own families. The ingredients and directions are exactly as I inherited them from my mother. My notes are in parentheses.
Measurements are fairly approximate. According to my mother, "Belle measured cups with teacups and teaspoons with something you'd use to stir sugar into coffee." As well, "rounding" measurements mean just that. Butter was something they churned from the milk and cream from their own cows, eggs were gathered from beneath their chickens, and need I explain that the milk was anything less than "whole"?
You really can mix it in one large bowl. Sift together dry ingredients? Forget about it. Whisk? Sure, if you have one, which I'm fairly sure Belle Foley did not. Alternatively, mix with a rubber spatula.
I like to think that Belle Foley took a nervous, unsure young woman to her side and shared this cake recipe with her, and gave her some joy. The greatest tribute to both her and my mother is to pass this on.
Enjoy! And please pass it on. - boulangere
And now for something entirely new, some of you may have followed the story on foodpickle of the miraculous gentleman who posted a question as to how to get in touch with me because, you see, Belle Foley was his mother. You can read the very long thread here: http://www.food52.com/foodpickle...
For the sake of ease of use, I'm posting the frosting recipe on the page Belle Foley's Chocolate Cake Chocolate Frosting: http://www.food52.com/recipes... This cake has created miracles. —boulangere
Food52 Review: While making this cake I felt sent back in time: stirring up batter in a country kitchen, before the time of electric mixers and air conditioning. The batter came together quite easily with just a bowl and wooden spoon, however it was very watery. I admit to skepticism when I poured it in the pan and popped it in the oven and I sent a little prayer up to the kitchen angels. But after about 40 minutes I beheld a glorious chocolate cake. Belle Foley's creation is pure, home-cooked, delicious chocolate goodness. It makes a wonderful treat to snack on as is, but I will definitely be trying it out with a variety of frostings and fillings...think coffee, caramel, nutella... - cookiecakes —cookiecakes
Serves: hmmm 8 to 10
cups sugar
rounded tablespoons cocoa
rounded tablespoons soft butter
cup milk, room temperature
teaspoon vanilla
cups flour
cup boiling water
teaspoon (baking) soda
- (My notes: Trace the outline of a 9-inch round cake pan onto a sheet of parchment. Cut inside the line so that the circle fits inside the cake pan. Drop the circle into the cake pan. Don't spray or grease the sides; you'll get a more level rise.)
- Preheat oven to 350° F.
- Mix together the sugar, cocoa, butter, eggs, milk, vanilla, and flour. Batter will seem thick, but don't worry. Add 1 cup of boiling water with 1 teaspoon (baking) soda stirred into it. Stir together. It will seem runny, but don't worry.
- Pour into a cake pan. Bake for about 35 or 40 minutes (or until done, when you can bounce your finger off the top and the cake feels springy). Those are all the instructions I received from Belle.
- (Remove cake from oven and let cool on a rack for at least 15 minutes before depanning. Depan and let cool until room temp to the touch. Sift some powdered sugar over the top. Cut warm, generous slices and serve with big splops of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.)
- Know love. And please pass it on.
- This recipe is a Community Pick!
- This recipe was entered in the contest for The Recipe You Want To Be Remembered For
More Great Recipes:
Cake|Chocolate Cake|Milk/Cream|Chocolate|One-Bowl Baking|Make Ahead|Serves a Crowd|Dessert


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Stone And Rob: Caught On Tape is in stores now.
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Interview: The Making Of Dwarf Fortress
February 27, 2008 Page 1 of 10
There have been few indie gaming success stories as big as Dwarf Fortress, an ASCII freeware simulation game in which the player helps to establish and govern a colony of dwarves, as they construct a Moria of their own.
The scope of the game defies belief: it contains an extensive world generator, a three-dimensional cellular automata system for simulating fluids, naming languages for all major races, an economics simulation, and even a complete Adventure Mode in which the player can explore abandoned fortresses.
It's so detailed that large web communities have sprung up around the game, both on the developer's forums and Something Awful, where players trade stories about what happened in their games. Some of these stories have even become popular outside the game's community.
Amazingly for a game as rich as Dwarf Fortress, it remains the work of just te wo people, programmer Tarn "Toady One" Adams and his brother Zach. Tarn supports himself primarily with donations from Dwarf Fortress enthusiasts. In this interview, Tarn talks about the inspiration and origins of the game, and some of the finer points of its construction.
This interview was originally held over a private IRC conversation, and edited into a more traditional interview format.
Games Leading Up To Dwarf Fortress
Why don't we start with what gave
you the inspiration to create Dwarf Fortress?
Tarn Adams: It's really the joining of
two different tracks of development. The first has to do with our (my
brother Zach Adams and I) "fantasy game." Way back when,
like, when I was in elementary school, fifth grade or so, I wrote a
BASIC game called dragslay. That was just a D&D game,
more or less, with text that scrolled up from the bottom of the
You mean Infocom-style?
TA: Pretty much, yeah. But it
didn't even have a map. Just a line through 8 or 10 encounters, then
a dragon fight, then repeat. It was very basic, but it was our first
project. Our first fantasy project, rather. We had a ton of other
space/samurai/etc. things going on, all BASIC, all very small, so we
didn't do so much with it. Then in the summer of my freshman year in
high school, I picked up C and dragslay was revisited.
So I was able to make a larger project. Dragslay was sort of horrifying. You could kill an enemy and then be attacked by maggots from the corpse at random. Wounds could fester as well then you'd catch diseases.
In any case, yeah, this
time it got a basic world map, and you could depopulate goblin tribes
in the wilderness as you searched for dragons. Along with several
other projects, we worked on that until, say, my sophomore year of
So the game kept track of goblin
TA: Yeah, it was one of my first
save/load experiences outside of score lists. It kept track of their
names and kills and they could yell at you like the enemies do in
Dwarf Fortress. It was really quite far along, farther along
than DF adventure mode in some respects. By yell at you, I
mean it would track which players they had killed then they'd proceed
to make fun of you. They also stacked their skulls outside the
Page 1 of 10


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june27 started following Travel to Dublin and Belfast
Travel to Dublin and Belfast
june27 posted a topic in Traveling with Celiac DiseaseWe have a trip planned for Dublin and Belfast, and I thought I would check in and see if anyone had any good dining options. I have been searching findmeglutenfree.com and just looking at various restaurants, but I am running out of steam. The impression I get is that most places in Ireland and Northern Ireland are very Celiac-aware, so I am wondering if I might be able to eat at restaurants, even though gluten-free is not marked on the menu. Does anyone have any first-hand experience? Any recommendations for lunch/dinner? Any pubs that I will be able to eat at? Any other words of wisdom are appreciated as well. Thanks in advance!
Grill Basket?
june27 replied to Waitingindreams's topic in Gluten-Free Recipes & Cooking Tipsi have tried a few different varieties - all relatively inexpensive. i have seen/bought them at target, home depot, and other similar type stores. the first one i bought was stainless steel, and i found it terrible to try to clean. at that point, i was marinating the veggies in salad dressing, so that might have been part of the problem. the most recent one that i got was this one (or something similar): http://www.target.com/p/chefmate-mini-bowl-topper/-/A-14777037#prodSlot=_1_60 the two things i like about this one is that it is non-stick, so relatively easy to clean. also, because it is round, there are no cracks/crevices for things to get stuck to. not everyone likes non-stick, so this might not be good for everyone. i have not had any issues with the coating on the inside of the bowl scratching, but the bottom does tend to scratch off - no food on that surface, so it doesn't concern me too much. good luck!
Orcas Island (Washington State)
june27 posted a topic in Traveling with Celiac DiseaseHas anyone spent any time on Orcas Island off Washington state? We are planning a trip out there this summer, and am trying to figure out what there are for options regarding grocery shopping and gluten-free-friendly restaurants. At a minimum, we will be getting a place with a fridge, but I am not sure how important it will be to have a stove as well. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated Thanks!
Contamination Anxiety- Help!
june27 replied to afitgirl's topic in Coping with Celiac DiseaseI was diagnosed 2+ years ago, with no complaints of digestive issues - I started seeing a naturopathic doctor for my seasonal allergies and dry eyes. After a food sensitivity test, which I scored off the charts for gluten and wheat, a celiac blood panel was done and came back positive for celiac. My first reaction was that I was glad to have an answer and that I was going to embrace this new diet and try lots of new foods. After a few weeks on the diet and lots of reading, I found myself in a similar place to where it sounds like you are now. I kept reading more, to try to gain more knowledge. Some of it was helpful, and some just added to my being overwhelmed. At some point, I decided to make a mental list of what I was going to do/avoid, and continue down my path. For me it was to do all of the obvioius things - cleaned out the cupboard of gluten or contaminated items, new cutting boards, wooden spoons, plastic spoons. I changed over my health/beauty products because I wasn't sure if I would know if I was reacting or not. I also was very careful about reading ingredients - I still do not eat anything made on shared equipment (I can't say that I know this is an issue for me, but I have had no reason to test it out). I started eating out with anything off a gluten-free menu - but that philosophy has changed over time. After 2 or 3 months, I hadn't had any issues, and was starting to wonder if I was really doing as well as I thought, or if maybe I was a silent celiac. I went out to eat, and contemplated tasting one piece of pasta from my boyfriends plate (ok, i didn't really contemplate it, because i know it would be a bad idea, but the thought did briefly cross my mind). that night i got home, and i felt terrible - tummy cramps, C then D, bloating/belching. this went on for 4 days, and it was another 4 days before my digestive tract really got back to normal. now i know what my symptoms are when I get glutened (less severe with less gluten, but the general symptoms are the same). I had ordered off the gluten-free menu, but did not say it was an allergy - I have never gone back to that restaurant. things that i have learned since then: -cooking food in the pizza oven that has flour in the air does make my tummy unhappy (who knew they cooked the chicken wings in the same oven?? - i would not have ordered them i knew where they were cooked) -my sister uses a new package of sugar for me (the canister is contaminated with flour from using the same measuring spoon - made me sick for a day before we figured out the source) -restaurants take your gluten issues more seriously if you tell them it is an allergy (i know that it is not, but it is a word they understand and makes them take it seriously) - one small (accidental) sip of gluten-beer will make me sick for a day Each of these mistakes makes me realize how sensitive I am, and also helps me to communicate to others how serious it really is. It really does get better with time. Don't expect that you will be 100% perfect from the start - do the best you can and learn from your mistakes. Good luck!
I Gave Up Waiting For Insurance Approval...
june27 replied to Georgia_guy's topic in Coping with Celiac Diseasei was a beer snob prior to diagnosis as well. i gave up alcohol for the first year making exceptions once every month or two for special occasions. now, i drink mostly wine or hard cider. i have tried a few beers: redbridge - i was not a fan of this greens and glutenburg - i really like both of these. even my boyfriend thought they tasted good (and he still drinks gluten-filled beer) dog fish head - i wouldn't really call it a beer. was interesting and fruity - more like a wine cooler. a good change of pace, but not something i would want more than 1 at a time pasta - i find i eat more pasta now than i ever did before going gluten-free. in general, i find that i prefer the ones that are made from a blend of flours best. however, i do like the tinkyada rice noodles in a soup. i am not loyal to any brand - i pick whichever one has the shape that i am interested in at the time. good luck!
I think the GFinDC's assessment makes perfect sense to me (though I have never thought about it in that level of detail). Before going gluten-free, I could belch on command - on an empty stomach, after eating something (with or without gluten). I also found that I would have to belch after eating - not always, and it definitely happened after eating something as benign as eggs and rice. Now that I have been gluten-free for over 2 years, if I am accidentally glutened, the belching starts in again. After eating anything, I belch. The only way that I can describe it is like my insides feel inflamed and anything I eat just makes them uphappy - and I belch and get crampy. The worse the glutening, the longer this lasts.
I did not have a lot of classic celiac symptoms prior to diagnoses, but for many years i have been able to belch with more depth and volume that a beer-guzzling college student (not calling names here, as i was once one of them). and, i could do it just about any time of any day on command. yup, pretty classy for a woman in her early 40's now that i have been gluten-free for 2 years, i couldn't belch on a normal day if i tried. if i am accidentally glutened, that is my first symptom - within 2 hours and am bloated and belching. if it was a big enough glutening, this will last for days, and will be worst right after eating.
Good Dark Beer?
june27 replied to GottaSki's topic in Gluten-Free Foods, Products, Shopping & MedicationsI like Green's and Glutenburg. Both make a few different varieties, and all have been tasty. Even my boyfriend (who loves IPAs) would drink both of these.
Hayfever And The Gluten Free Diet
june27 replied to KCG91's topic in Related Disorders & Celiac ResearchBefore I was diagnosed, I started seeing a naturopathic doctor (after 20+ years of allergies, including 5+ years of allergy shots). Before making any changes, she did a blood test to see if I had any food sensitivities. Gluten and wheat were off the charts, so we did a Celiac panel - came back positive. In addition to giving up gluten, I also had to give up dairy, yeast, citrus, and oats. I did this for 2 months, and then started to challenge the different foods. Next month will be my 2 year mark. I have been able to add back some dairy - goat cheese and hard cheese only. No milk/butter/soft cheese - they all cause my allergies to be much worse. I can go from feeling fine to having severe post nasal drip with just a few days of having a little bit of cheese on a salad. In the past few months, I have cheated a little on the milk/butter front - mostly when I am out and don't want to deal with it. I should try to get back on the wagon though The other thing that sometimes causes problems if I have too much of it is yeast. I was eating a lot of kombucha and kefir (coconut milk variety), and my sinuses started acting up. So I gave it up for another few months, and did another challenge and it was OK. I am still on all my allergy meds (though I am hoping to get off them someday), but now they are at least under control. It used to be that I would be on all of the meds, and still have more symptoms that most people. If you can't get the blood test, you could always try an elimination diet for a couple of months, and start adding foods back one at a time. I think I usually did a challenge for 3-5 days - except for dairy. Dairy i did for 5-7 days and did it incrementallly (hard cheese, then soft cheese, etc). Good luck!
Cookie Recipes
june27 replied to kareng's topic in Gluten-Free Recipes & Cooking Tipsi kept meaning to respond to this thread before the holidays, but with all of the running around, i kept forgetting about it. the first recipe is for chocolate chip cookies. a friend gave me the cookbook for christmas last year, but i was able to find the recipe online as well. the cookies are crispy and super chocolately - no one ever turns them down: http://www.artofglutenfreebaking.com/2009/05/gluten-free-chocolate-chipchunk-cookies-2-delicious-recipes/ when i was home for christmas, i tried this recipe for cinnamon chocolate chip butterballs. i used bob's red mill gluten-free flour with xantham gum and enjoy life choc chips. it was a big hit: http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/cinnamon-chocolate-chip-butterballs/7d9c9bd5-5ff4-4c17-99ae-69f7d838f631
june27 replied to Frosty_35768's topic in Post Diagnosis, Recovery & Treatment of Celiac DiseaseI have not had this problem since I went gluten free, and it only happened a handful of times before that. It never happened enough (or closely enough together) for me to be able to identify some sort of pattern. Since it did happen so infrequently, I am not sure if gluten-free has fixed the issue, or if I have just been lucky. When it did happen , it was just awful. I don't think I ever experienced it at breakfast. In my mind, I always thought it had something to do with being hungry and thinking I would be eating soon, so my stomach would start secreting acid. When I didn't give it any food, it got really cranky. [i have no idea if that is what 'really' happens, but that is the story in my mind.] Once I would eat, I would end up with more bloating and cramps, and I'd have to lay down and wait it out until it passed. After experiencing this once with my boyfriend (after repeatedly telling him that I needed to eat), he would always ask "how badly/soon do you need to eat" if we were trying to plan when to have dinner Now that I am gluten-free, bloating is the tell-tale sign that I have been glutened. When that happens, I will be bloated for a day (maybe more if I ingested more than small CC amounts), and will get more bloated any time I eat anything - until my insides are able to heal a bit. Good luck! I am curious if anyone else has experienced this as well...
New To gluten-free And Anxious About Going Out
june27 replied to MChase's topic in Coping with Celiac DiseaseI have been gluten free for about 1-3/4 years. The first few outtings are definitely the most nerve-racking. It does get easier as you go along, but the diligence is always there. What I have found helpful is to contact the restaurant/bar/caterer in advance. This allows you to get a feel for what you are getting into before you get there. It also allows the place you are going to try to accommodate you. I went to one wedding that was a buffet. They brought me out a whole plate of chicken (way more than 1 person could possible eat), and told me what i could and could not have at the buffet. I believe they have servers dishing it out, so there was less risk of spoons crossing to the wrong bowls. Some more informal gatherings (bbq buffet) the caterer assembled a meal for me in advance. If I think that I won't be able to eat when I am out, I will pack some food in my purse (either a sandwich, or kind bars, etc). Bar food - salads are often ok. also burgers, but make sure you can get them to clean the grill if they put burger buns on it. i did have an issue with this once, but usually have had decent luck. beware of anything fried (including tortilla chips if they fry them on-site). If I called ahead, and it didn't sound promising, I would probably bring a sandwich in the car to eat before heading in, and another for after in case I was hungry. good luck! being prepared definitely goes a long way in alleviating the stress of these situations. The seafood banquet might be tough. If the potatoes are baked, they might be a good option.
the only thing that helped me with the pityriasis was lavendar essential oil. i would mix it with a base (massage oil from one of the body places - bath and body works, or the body shop - i forget which). i would apply liberally to my back every morning and evening. it helped to take the edge of, and i smelled lovely
Need Help Finding Specific Cookbooks (Or Recipes)
june27 replied to Oria's topic in Gluten-Free Recipes & Cooking TipsI think I am ready to start roasting more veggies I have always liked roasted potatoes, but haven't ventured out to other veggies. however, this past weekend i made roasted cabbage - and it was fantastic! the fact that i put bacon on it contributed to its goodness, but i think it would be pretty good without bacon too.
I have had sensitive skin (rashes, itchy) off and on for most of my life. I am not sure if it was eczema or not, but mine are typically pretty itchy. Since going gluten free (spring of 2012), I have not had any skin issues. As I am writing this, I am realizing that I usually get really dry skin around my neck at this time of year and I have had no issues this year. Maybe gluten-free is helping this too! I also had pityriasus rosea many years ago - and that was NOT FUN! I went in thinking the doc was going to tell me that I had dry skin on my back and send me away. Instead, she rushed out to get a book to show me that I looked 'just like the picture'. It was not very comforting


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Pittsburgh. Many would agree that there isn't a bigger sports town around, and Pittsburghers nurture their young to embrace that proud legacy. But did you know that a passion for sports can be used as a gateway to talk about the topics of physics, anatomy, biology, and even chemistry?
That's the whole idea behind Carnegie Science Center's Highmark SportsWorks®: to inspire learning and curiosity by uniting the experience of sports for every age level with the laws of science that control sports.
Highmark SportsWorks® offers nearly 30 interactive experiences in three thematic areas: LifeWorks, Physics of Sports, and Sports Challenge.
LifeWorks conveys the fundamental science of the benefits of a healthy, active lifestyle.
In Physics of Sports, visitors put their inner daredevil to the test.
Sports Challenge gives visitors a chance to be part of the game.
SportsWorks® is a registered trademark of Carnegie Science Center. Highmark® is a registered trademark of Highmark Inc.


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209 Rock Prairie Road College Station, TX
Larry Mariott began his homebuilding career in 1976 and formed Mariott Homes, Inc. in 1992. His commitment to building homes of exceptional quality and customer service has been the lifeline of his success to long standing homeowner satisfaction. Many families have given Mariott Homes the opportunity to build their third and fourth home. Larry has also built his business on long-standing relationships with the most highly qualified and professional sub-contractors and suppliers. The majority have been a part of his team for ten or more years and a few for twenty-five years to comprise the Mariott Team of Professionals. Larry feels this is the reason a Mariott Home provides exceptional value and a better living for you, the homebuyer. Mariott Homes will comfortably transform your dreams into reality by providing the convenience of a One Stop Shop. This experience entails the conception of your floor plan, to decorating with your style and needs, and to the conclusion of your homebuilding experience. We want your home to feel like an enchanting retreat from your busy schedule. When you arrive home and close the door of your Mariott home, you truly can leave the world behind. Mariott Homes would be honored to assist you and your family in the establishment of our community with a home that is distinctly yours. Please contact us for your new home or remodeling needs at (979) 696-1787, or drop by our office at 209 Rock Prairie Road in College Station.


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HILLSVILLE — When participants in the Carroll-Galax Relay for Life circled the track at Tommy Thompson Field at Carroll County High School on Friday and Saturday, they raised $1,000 an hour to add to the money that will go toward cancer research and programs, organizers said.
Robin Minter, the community manager for the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life, said the $12,000 raised in the 12-hour relay put the event close to its overall goal of $85,000.
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The potential for history takes place every time Dodgers left-hander Clayton Kershaw takes the mound.
On Wednesday, that promise became a reality.
The buzz steadily grew with each out recorded. Nine straight to start the game. Then 18 in a row.
Not even a two-base throwing error by shortstop Hanley Ramirez to start the seventh inning could derail this magic.
Kershaw ventured into legendary territory with a performance that will likely go down as one of the most iconic in Dodgers history.
Kershaw's first career no-hitter.
Kershaw delivered a commanding no-no by retiring 27 of the 28 hitters he faced and finishing with 15 strikeouts in an 8-0 victory over the visiting Colorado Rockies to complete a three-game sweep in historical fashion.
It was the third most strikeouts in a no-hitter since 1900.
"We started scoring so many runs, I didn't want to screw that up," Kershaw said. "Just throw strikes. It was just so much fun. I can't explain.
"As far as individual games, this was pretty special, especially to do it at home in front of this crowd and seeing how excited they were. I haven't thought about the ramifications of one of these things, but it's special and I don't want to take that history for granted."
It was the 22nd no-hitter in Dodger history and comes on the heels of Josh Beckett's no-hitter on May 25 at Philadelphia, becoming the first time the Dodgers had two no-hitters in same season since 1956. And he was one out away from throwing the franchise's second perfect game.
"Beckett told me he was going to teach me how to do that," Kershaw said, laughing.
Kershaw threw his arms up in the arm and was embraced by catcher and close friend A.J. Ellis.
Kershaw got doused by two buckets of sports drinks by Matt Kemp and Yasiel Puig. Then the team came out with their now famed bubble machine and did their new dance with Kershaw much to the delight of the crowd.
Then Kershaw shared a warm embrace with his wife Ellen, who he was tipping his hat to at the end of the game.
"It's fun to celebrate with your teammates, and catchers take a lot of pride in something like this," Kershaw said. "I know how hard he works. And he came up with a great game plan and kept them off-balanced.
"Ellen was probably way more nervous because she did not have any control over it. We hugged and hung out after."
The crowd of 46,069 came to its feet in raucous fashion to start the ninth inning.
D.J. LeMathieu hit a grounder to first baseman Adrian Gonzalez, who flipped to Kershaw covering first.
Charlie Culberson lifted a harmless fly ball to Yasiel Puig in right field for the second out.
Then Kershaw needed just four pitches to strike out Corey Dickerson for the final out.
Overall Kershaw threw 107 pitches, 79 for strikes.
"He doesn't think about these kind of moments, but a lot of people thought it was just a matter of when," Mattingly said. "He's a player who deserves it. Our players would back that up. You like seeing good things happen to good people. He exemplifies everything you want from a teammate. He is special."
Kershaw began sitting all alone in the dugout in the fifth inning.
Kershaw began receiving standing ovations after he struck out the side in the sixth inning.
The crowd rose to its feet with two outs in the seventh and erupted in a loud roar when Kershaw froze Wilin Rosario with a wicked curve to end the seventh.
Kershaw received another standing ovation when he came to bat in the eighth inning.
Kershaw tied his career high in strikeouts when he fanned Drew Stubbs on three pitches to start the eighth for his 13th strikeout.
Kershaw set his career high for strikeouts by fanning Josh Rutledge in the eighth inning, right after Rutledge lined a shot down the left-field line that was just foul.
Kershaw won his fourth consecutive start and improved to 7-2 on the season.
Kershaw had a pair of previous two-hitters — on May 29, 2011 against the Florida Marlins and on June 20, 2011 against the Detroit Tigers.
Kershaw needed just 42 pitches to get through the first nine batters. He struck out five in that span, including Corey Dickerson looking to start the game and freezing Wilin Rosario on a beautiful 73-mph curveball.
The hardest hit through the first nine batters was actually by Rockies pitcher Jorge De La Rosa, who hit a liner that was snared by third baseman Miguel Rojas.
Kershaw helped his own cause in the fourth inning by fielding Dickerson's dribbler, whirling and firing to first to just beat Dickerson.
Kershaw fielded a comebacker by Josh Rutledge to end the fifth inning.
Then Kershaw fanned the side in the sixth inning, overwhelming Kyle Parker, D.J. LeMathieu and pinch-hitter Ryan Wheeler (Torrance High) to give him 10 strikeouts after six innings.
Kershaw shook off Ramirez's throwing error thanks to a spectacular play by Miguel Rojas, who fielded a chopper by Troy Tulowitzki (Long Beach State) on the line and made a long accurate throw that was hauled in by first baseman Adrian Gonzalez.
"Miggy made a great play and Adrian picked it," Kershaw said. "I thought it was foul, but Miggy was right there for it. That was pretty special."
Kershaw also seemed to prop up Ramirez after the error. Ramirez charged hard, but his throw was off-target. Kershaw signaled to Ramirez everything was OK.
"That was a really tough play. Under normal circumstances, that's close to a hit," Kershaw said.
Ellis said Kershaw was not going to get rattled.
"The thing not worry about Clayton is losing his edge or competitiveness," Ellis said. "He has such a will to win. He's competitive. He kept them off balanced and used his breaking ball with two strikes."
Maybe lost in the hoopla of history was the fact the Dodgers continued to make up ground on the Giants, closing within four games of the NL West leaders after trailing by 9.5 games as recently as June 8.
The Dodgers swept the three-game series with the Rockies and completed an impressive 5-1 homestand. The Dodgers have won eight of 11 games overall.
It is the first time they have swept the Rockies since winning the final three games of the 2012 season.
Dee Gordon got the Dodgers off and running in the first inning.
Gordon drew a leadoff walk, then stole his Major League-leading 37th base of the the season.
Gordon was also so much of a distraction on the basepaths that De La Rosa made an errant pickoff throw into center field, allowing Gordon to take third base and score on Yasiel Puig's towering sacrifice fly to center field for a 1-0 lead.
Hanley Ramirez also drew a walk in the first inning and scored on Matt Kemp's rifle RBI single to center for a 2-0 lead.
Then the Dodgers exploded for five runs in the third inning, all with two outs.
Puig drew a two-out walk, and the fireworks began.
Adrian Gonzalez and Kemp hit back-to-back RBI doubles, and Rojas blasted a three-run double over Dickerson's head in left field for a 7-0 lead.
The Dodgers continued to pile on with Gonzalez dropping an RBI single to left field to score Ramirez in the fourth inning for an 8-0 lead.
Kemp now has seven multi-hit performances in his last 12 games. He went 3 for 4 with two doubles, two RBIs and a run scored.
Ramirez's finger — bruised on a liner in Tuesday night's game — did not seem to affect him much at the plate, getting a double, a sacrifice fly, a walk and a run scored. Carlos Triunful replaced Ramirez defensively in the eighth, but it might have been an inning too late.


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Justin Moore to Embark on Outlaws Like Me Headline Tour in March
Justin Moore is taking his outlaw show on the road. The singer will embark on his first-ever headline tour on March 14. The tour, dubbed Outlaws Like Me, will feature support from Dustin Lynch and John Pardi. The first show takes place in Pikeville, Ky. and runs through April 20, wrapping in Corbin, Ky. Full circle!
Moore likes to live life on the road. He spent a whopping 200 days on tour in 2012, playing to 1.5 million fans. He's stoked to be hitting the road again, taking what he has learned as an opening act and while in support slots and applying it to his shows as a headliner.
"Man, I'm excited to be headlining our first tour," Moore said in a press statement. "Over the last few years I have been out with some of the best artists in our genre and I have learned so much from each of them. I'm ready to take everything they have taught me to build our show. It's going to be a blast. I can't wait!"
Moore will also be previewing new music from his next album, due out later this year.
Moore will also perform at the Taste of Country Music Festival in June.
Justin Moore Outlaws Like Me Tour Dates
3/14 - Pikeville, Ky. | Eastern Kentucky Expo Center
3/15 - Troy, Ohio| Hobart Arena
3/21 - Kearny, Neb. | Viaero Event Center
3/22 - St. Joseph, Mo. | St. Joseph Civic Arena
3/23 - Farmington, Mo. | Farmington Civic Center
3/28 - Davenport, Iowa| Adler Theatre**
3/29 - Brookings, N.D. | Swiftel Center
3/30 - Bismarck, N.D. | Bismarck Civic Center
4/13 - Dodge City, Ks. | United Wireless Arena**
4/18 - Erie, Pa. | Erie Insurance Arena
4/19 - Johnston, Pa. | Cambria County War Memorial Arena
4/20 - Corbin, Ky.| The Corbin Arena
** Jon Pardi will not appear at these dates


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Following is Holi Calendar date:
Holika Dahan : Monday 6th March 2015
Holi Colors Celebration Day : Tuesday 7th March 2015
Click and Buy Holi 2015 Gifts here.
Various Indian cities where we do delivery of holi gifts , click here .
Holi in Year 2015 is on 7th March 2015.Holi festival in general is usually being celebrated in India and by NRI's living in USA UK NZ Australia Dubai UAE and worldwide with full gaiety in the month of March every year.
Like other festivals, people living abroad send holi gifts to India for their close friend and families. Similarly people living in India send Holi Gifts to US ,New Zealand ,Australia ,Dubai (UAE) ,UK ( Including London) and all those countries where majority of Indian Live.
Holi is a festival of colours. Most of the Indian celebrate this festival in Style and especially buy new cloths like White Kurta Paijama or white Pant and Shirt to wear and play with Holi colours.
In Holi festival people including kids, children, adults (Male and Females) buy Water colours and Holi Pichkaries (Water Guns). Holi Colors, available in different Packing are basically two types of colours .Soft and hard Colours. Soft colours are Herbal Gulals made from herbs are mild in nature which can be wiped very easily using plain water and mild soaps .They are safe to use .Hard colours are unsafe .They include colours made from dyes and chemicals .They are unsafe but unstoppable youth and enthusiast play Holi with these colours only .
Indian people enjoy this festival in their own style .For them it is festival of joy, colours, songs, masti and dhoom (entertainment). This day all checked feelings are unleashed and no restrictions apply to them in terms of dancing openly to the tunes of Holi Songs.
This Day begins with playful people gather at one place. They are fully equipped with colours, Water guns (pichkari) and eatables like sweets, Gujiiya, namkeens with drinks. Lavish arrangements are made for loud and peppy music .Popular Hindi song sequences related to Holi celebrations are played and people dance to the tune of these songs whole day .They do not eat regular food and survive mostly on Gujiiya , namkeens ,soft drinks ,wine and ready to eat snacks.
Newly wed Bahbhis or just married Jija's (Brother in Law) are the main target in this festival. Being their first Holi, special and foolproof plans are made to colour them to the fullest and make them drunk literally so that they do not feel shy and come out of their shell to enjoy this festival.
People send amusing Holi e cards, photo wall pictures, greeting cards and sms on line to their friends, relatives and colleagues. Buy delicious Kaju Gujia, holi colours and water Pichkari and Holi gift packs .Order tempting Indian Sweet and other Holi gifts well in advance i.e. before 10th march for timely delivery before Choti Holi .
Send Holi Gifts to India in 2015.Celebrate Colour Festival Holi 2015. Buy Holi Gifts from India in 2015 .Send Holi Gifts from USA UK NZ, Australia, Dubai, UAE, and London to India. Buy Mithai, Gujiiya/Ghujia Gift Hampers.
Indian Gift Guru deliver Holi Gifts Holi Gifts to almost all the cities of India.


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ecelshop needed a new logo design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 120 designs submitted by 14 freelance designers.
Working with a 3rd generation tannery and leather makers in a small Argentinian town - we make unisex leather travel goods (bags, wallets, ipad folders) with a vintage look but modern aesthetic.
We are aiming for an all ages demographic - who appreciate hermes-esque design/quality (think double stitching, good quality brass buckles etc) but who don't want to spend over $300-400 for a travel bag.
Originally the company's name was an acronym ECEL, Entre Chien et Loup - a french saying meaning between the dog and the wolf and twilight/dusk.
As the company has actually formed - we don't feel the name sake fits an australian design company that produces leather goods in argentina and were looking for help on a new by line - eg: ECEL - South American Travel Goods
The companies we would like to base the branding soundboard on include: Hermes, Monocle Magazine, http://themotley.com
What we would like is :
- a name that can stand on it's own (with by-line)
- a motif in a circle (similar to the monocle magazine M and Hermes H)
- a picture which works with the name/motif - again either something hermes and/or see attached. Also quite keen on personified animal.
I have attached my original sketch for the company. Please don't feel compelled to use it (nor anything else I have said) as inspiration though for the reasons outlined above!
OTHER: Some of the mediums we will be using the branding on include -
* 3cm high x9cm long label (most likely leather embossed but maybe sewn if colours needed)
* Website header/footer
* Foil embossed, laser cut or colour printed into packing boxes (probably same style as white glossy cake boxes but in company colours)
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.


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Photos from the Blagojevich retrial
Former Gov. Rod Blagojevich's first corruption trial ended in August 2010, with the jury deadlocking on 23 of 24 counts. He was convicted of one count, lying to the FBI. He was found guilty of 17 of the 20 counts in his retrial, including allegations he tried to sell President Barack Obama's vacant U.S. Senate seat.
Copyright © 2019, Chicago Tribune


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For those who truly love animals :) and respects them. It can include animal rights advocates who say animals are not our property, but it can be also veg*ans of any kind who went veg for health, environmental, ethical, religious or any other reason.
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Throughout Arkansas, in major cities like Conway, Cabot, Bryant and Helena, a vast number of Used Motorhomes resources offer motorhomes for sale to local communities. Contact locations with furnished addresses and phone numbers for used motorhomes centers located in cities and towns across AR. Are you trying to find great deals on used motorhomes in Arkansas? Shopping through our list of dealers can help you narrow your search. Browse used Class A motorhomes if you need a lot of living and storage space with plenty of great features. Or look for used Class C motorhomes or even Class B motorhomes if you're more concerned with savings on your purchase. Arkansas dealers can help you with RV insurance, maintenance questions and more.
If you're searching for local used motorhomes resource locations, you've come to the right website. This site provides clickable maps to find used motorhomes for sale within your own region of the state. Locate RV dealers in your area and discover used motorhomes for sale by owner.
Check for Class B motorhomes for sale if on a tight budget. Also, visit several RV locations in Arkansas to compare pricing. Also consider RV storage options, loan rates and motorhome features before deciding which unit to buy. When buying a used motorhome, researching the market can pay big dividends.
Northwest Arkansas RV Insurance
Northeast Arkansas RV Insurance
Southwest Arkansas RV Insurance
Southeast Arkansas RV Insurance
A well-cared for motorhome can provide long-lasting value for you and your family. Service records and a good visual inspection can give a pretty good indication of the condition of most used motorhomes. So take your time and shop around so you can get a great RV with all the features your family desires! Once you make a selection it may be worth the investment to have a professional inspect the unit before finalizing the purchase.
To locate a used motorhome dealer in your area, first select the quadrant of your state in the map above. Here you will find used motorhome locations, conveniently listed by city. Example cities for AR include the following: Rogers, Maumelle and Harrison are listed on the northwest sector page. Jonesboro, Jacksonville and Forrest City are listed on the northeast sector page. Hope, El Dorado and Camden are listed on the southwest sector page. Pine Bluff, Monticello and McGehee are listed on the southeast sector page. Used Motorhome dealer locations in larger and smaller cities are also included on each of these pages
Use the contact information provided for each location to gather details regarding office hours, services offered, location, travel directions and any questions you may have.
Just as with your home and vehicle, insurance is a fact of life when buying an RV. But thankfully, it takes very little time and effort using this site to find RV and motorhome insurance offered by dealers throughout Arkansas. Use the listings to shop around and speak with several RV insurance providers before securing a policy. Check rates, deductibles, payment options, etc. on both a new and used motorhome so you'll know the difference. Ask about insurance on RV rentals as well, just in case you decide to hire or rent an RV before buying one. No matter which RV dealer you buy from, be sure to factor in the costs of insurance, maintenance, fuel and other expenses before signing the dotted line. It's wise to gather information for a month or so before buying so you can step back and make a decision without pressure. An RV is a big purchase so you'll want to approach it with prudent forethought.
Do you need assistance finding a knowledgeable RV insurance agent in Arkansas? Motorhome dealer associations often provide information to the public about area dealerships and other service providers relating to motorhomes and RVs. One can also find information about motorhome travel in Arkansas through campground owners associations, RV clubs and travel clubs. For questions regarding AR motorhome travel, campgrounds, dealerships, RV loans, motorhome insurance and service centers, contact:
Arkansas Welcome Center
#1 Capitol Mall, Suite 4A-900
Little Rock, AR 72201-1087
Washington DC
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
While there are many RV insurance providers in the state, you want an agent that is nearby and can offer you insurance within your budget. That's why it's important to shop around and get rate quotes from several RV insurance offices and agents throughout Arkansas. New and used motorhomes alike must be insured. So get an RV insurance quote for both types as well as insurance quotes on new or used motorhome rentals.


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$1,500 - Low mileage 1998 360 (5.9 litre) Dodge truck engine.
Truck had less than 2,000 miles when wrecked. Engine has been sealed and stored in my garage since '98.
If interested, please send PM with your E-mail address and I will send you photos of this engine.
I am located NW of Houston, Texas. Engine to be picked up in person, cash on receipt. No checks, MOs nor credit cards. All sales are final......
Best regards and thanks for looking,


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A Christian apologetics ministry dedicated to demonstrating the historical reliability of the Bible through archaeological and biblical research.
One of the most vociferously attacked historical accounts in the Bible is the Old Testament description of the Israelite Conquest of Canaan as recorded in the book of Joshua. According to many critics, the archaeological evidence does not support either the Biblical version or date of the Conquest events... Continue reading
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This article is an abridged version, first published in the Summer 2003 issue of Bible and Spade. INTRODUCTION One of the most vociferously attacked historical accounts in the Bible is the Old Testament description of the Israelite Conquest of Canaan as recorded in the book of Joshua. According to many critics, the archaeological evidence does not support either the Biblical version or date of the Conquest events. Many Christian evangelical scholars seem to agree and have conceded that the Biblical account of the Conquest is less than accurate. As a result they are reinterpreting events so that they come into agreement with the supposed "assured" results of archaeological research. It is well known that during the past 100 years or so there has developed a sizable body of scholarship that argues the Old Testament Conquest accounts are, for the most part, an "editorial expansion" of the original story or, even worse, outright fabrications. In tandem with these theories is another proposition that archaeological evidence is lacking for the Conquest occurring in the 15th century B.C., a date derived by a literal reading of the Bible. As a result, recent Bible commentaries and books addressing the Conquest have usually reported that the event happened in the 13th or, even later, in the 12th century B.C. LB I Fortified Cities Regardless of whether a scholar subscribes to a date for the Exodus and Conquest in the "early" 15th century, or the "late" 13th/12th century, there is another problem. The books of Numbers, Deuteronomy and Joshua describe Canaanite cities as fortified and walled (e.g., Nu 13:28, Dt 1:28, 3:5, 28:52; Jos 2:15, 6:5, 6:20, 7:5, 8:29, etc.). In fact, the Hebrew word most often translated as "city" in English Bibles (1099 times in the Old Testament), always refers to a permanent settlement surrounded by a wall. The Old Testament made a distinction between a fortified place and unfortified, dependent towns and/or villages. The English word "city" masks how the Old Testament Hebrew intended to differentiate between permanent walled cities and unfortified and unwalled settlements. For example, in Numbers 13:19 Moses gave specific instructions to the 12 Israelites who had been selected to explore Canaan prior to the Conquest. The NASB translation of this verse makes it clear that Moses wanted strategic intelligence as to which of the settlements were walled cities and which were unprotected camps. However, Moses also wanted to know which of the cities were fortified. The implication is that in addition to walled cities, Moses asked the men to determine what other type of fortifications the Israelites might encounter and he used an adjective, in conjunction with the word for city, to convey that meaning. The 12 scouts returned and verified that Canaan had walled and fortified locations: the "cities are fortified and very large" (Nu 13:28). On several other occasions Moses reiterated that the Israelites would find fortified cities in the land they were to occupy. For example, in Deuteronomy 1:28 Moses reminded the people of the report given by the 12 explorers. He repeated that "... the cities are large and fortified to heaven ..." (NASB). Later, as the Israelites prepared to invade Canaan, Moses warned them, "You are crossing over the Jordan today to go in and dispossess nations greater and mightier than you, great cities fortified to heaven..." (Dt 9:1, NASB). Moses also recalled the places they had occupied east of the Jordan had been cities "fortified with high walls, gates, and bars, besides a great many unwalled towns" (Dt 3: 3-5, NASB). The Consequences In spite of clear statements in the Bible that Canaanite cities were walled, and many locations named in Joshua are described as fortified, most archaeologists believe the excavated evidence has revealed few, or no, fortified cities in Canaan during the period of the Late Bronze Age (ca. 1480-1175 B.C.). If this interpretation of the archaeological record is correct, it means that regardless of whether one holds to the 12th/13th ("late") or 15th century ("early") B.C. Conquest scenarios, Canaanite cities were for the most part unfortified, and the Biblical descriptions are incorrect. With this as background, it is easy to understand why secular historians and some archaeologists can conclude that the Biblical description of the Conquest is flawed. The alleged absence of archaeological evidence for fortifications at Canaanite Late Bronze I sites clearly contradicts the Bible. It has caused scholars and students, who might otherwise be disposed to accept the Biblical description of an Israelite military invasion of Canaan, to question the historicity of the entire Exodus and Conquest episode. For some people who have ideological reasons not to accept the historicity of the Bible, it is understandable that the seeming inability of archaeologists to establish evidence for the existence of fortified Canaanite cities at the time of the Conquest can be construed as proof that the Biblical story never occurred. However, for those who want to believe the Bible and the history it represents, the possible lack of archaeological evidence for fortified cities in Canaan has caused many to question the historicity of the Conquest. Certainly, the theory that Canaanite cities have no, or little, archaeological evidence for walls and fortifications has complicated attempts by scholars to harmonize the Biblical account and the archaeological record. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
In order to provide a factual basis for testing the archaeological record of fortified Canaanite cities at the time of the Conquest against Biblical history, I examined Palestinian Late Bronze Age IA/B (ca. 1480-1390 B.C.) archeological evidence. I did so to determine what Late Bronze Age I defensive architecture, if any, had actually been found by archaeologists at Palestinian sites with evidence of LB I occupation. To limit the scope of the study, I selected geographic parameters similar to those referred to in Numbers 13. In verses 21-22 and 29 of that chapter the 12 leaders scouted the land from Zin in the south, to Rehob in the north (a location near the source of the Jordan River) for 40 days. The territory encompassed the Negev, hill country, Hebron and Jebus regions. The east and west limits of their investigation were the Mediterranean coast and the banks of the Jordan. I then examined the literature for every archaeological site that had produced evidence of Late Bronze I occupation within the previously described geographical tract. Every effort was made to consult all the relevant published excavation reports for each site. A total of 51 sites met the criteria for the study. SUMMARY This study examined the proposition that during the Late Bronze I, Palestinian cities are considered to have been unwalled and/or unfortified. In accepting that proposition as truth, many archaeologists and Bible historians have argued that if the Israelites invaded Canaan in the LB I, they would not have had to contend with walled and/or fortified cities. However, the depiction of Canaanite cities as unwalled or unfortified contradicts the Biblical picture of urban settlements at the time of the Conquest. Moses cautioned the Israelites that they would confront cities during the Conquest which were "large and fortified to heaven" (Dt 1:28; 9:1) which is supported by the account of the 12 spies in Numbers 13. This study has found archaeological evidence establishing the fact that LB I Canaan was similar to the Biblical description with both walled and fortified cities, cultic sites, and unwalled villages. Of the 51 Palestinian archaeological sites with evidence of LB I occupation, 27 (53%) were "fortified" with city walls and/or other fortifications. Deeper analysis of the data revealed that 30 of the 51 sites are locations described in the Book of Joshua, and 22 of those have been positively correlated with places in Joshua. The Bible describes 14 of those 22 locations as walled or fortified and, in fact, walls and/or fortifications have been found at all 14. The Bible ascribes walls to three more sites. These three are situated on high tells and were Egyptian administrative centers in LB I; however, they could have appeared to have be cities with "walls up to the sky" (Dt 9:1, NIV). The Bible is silent regarding walls/fortifications at the other four and, in fact, LB I walls or fortifications have not been found at those locations. Therefore, archaeological evidence fully supports the Biblical description of Canaan as having walled and/or fortified cities at the time of the Conquest along with a number of unfortified villages and cultic locations. This study should support evangelical scholars who agree with the Biblical description of Canaan at the time of the Conquest and provide a response to theories and neo-historical accounts that seek to alter the Scriptural record.
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What posseses someone to get head over heels researching their family history......for some I'm sure its to find someone worthy in order to join a prominent society..i.e. DAR, Society of Colonial Dames of the 17th Century, SAR or Huguenot Society and a long list of groups where you must prove your descent from someone relating to the criteria of that group. Those people tend to stop when they have that one person who meets the criteria needed. Then there are those like me...loves history and enjoys it more when I know an ancestor lived in that era or had something to do with a famous battle or event in history......and just loves to solve a mystery story you'd heard from someone in the family. That could be a mysterious death or a run away bride, perhaps a change of last name and curious stories told about it that just don't add up.
Then there are the surprises you find when you start digging......a relationship to a famous pioneer or a group you've heard of and wondered about.
Being a family historian is a game or puzzle.....and sometimes just a bit of stubborness is necessary to figure out what happened to someone who is there one year and gone the next. Its tying up loose ends for one family and giving them a history. Its also sharing with someone who perhaps was adopted and feels lost till he understands his place in the scheme of things.
My own quest started as a ten year old. We had read our Weekly Reader in fifth grade one day...all about the reasons people left Europe to come to America. I was familiar with my mothers family as I had been around them all my life at that point...heard them telling stories about this ancestor or that one, visited cemeteries on Decoration Day and Easter Sunday with my Grandpa Wright and spent time with various relatives of my mothers parents as I grew up.
My dad's family had always been something of a mystery as we didn't visit often, for one reason or another. He told me what he knew of his grandpas family on his dads side...his grandpa was James Perry Adams from South Carolina. James married Emily McClellan in Fl and came to KY when she was pregnant with my Grandpa, Ancil Adams. He was the first born in Kentucky. On his mothers family he said they were kin to President Zachary Taylor. Thats one story I've never been able to prove though I've had others in the family repeat the same story.
About his mother's family, he said he knew three things....they were French Huguenots, came to Kentucky very early and their last name was Montfort with both t's pronounced and the last syllable emphasized. Something about that word huguenot. I had always loved big words...pronouncing them, learning the meanings, spelling them.....and huguenot was perfect in my book. From that point I determined to learn to speak French, the language of my ancestors.
One day we went to my Grandma Adams show to celebrate her birthday...all her kids and grandkids were to be there..at least the ones that lived closeby. I have a picture of my Grandma and me looking at a photo of my Grandpa Adams..the first time I had ever seen what he looked like. She later gave me a copy of the same photo to take home with me. We sat and talked about her family. I was thirteen or nearly so and started paying attention to the stories she told me that day.
Her father died when she was four and her mother died when she was ten...leaving her to live with this aunt or another, then finally keeping house for her older brothers till her marriage. I suppose the stories she knew came from her mothers sister, Jennie Montfort Satterwhite Jensen. She knew the names of her aunts and uncles on her mothers side but knew little of her dad's family....except someone in Missouri had passed away and the estate was looking for next of kin. Grandma had moved to Indiana at this point and in the early 1900's it wasn't as easy to locate as it is now. Not long ago and with some surprise I learned the story was true.
There are some things I've learned that did not come from Grandma....and boy what surprises they have been. The family connection to the Boone family, the Shaker religious society of Kentucky, the Traveling Church that migrated in 1780 from Virginia to Kentucky, the Low Dutch Colony in Kentucky in 1780, quite a long list of Rev War veterans including FOUR women, and descending from a family that were among the first group of settlers that came from Holland to what is now Nieuw Amsterdam in 1624.
I used to say my ancestors were mainly from England, Ireland and Scotland, but now have more from Holland and France than all the others combined. Oh and learning to speak French, the language of my ancestors????? After two years of struggling and the teacher rolling her eyes at my attempts to pronounce words.....I later learned they were more likely speaking a language known as Walloon...a mix of Dutch and French and even more likely spoke Dutch after their arrival in America.
All of this came from the three things my dad told me when I was ten.
Barbara Whiteside
November 1, 2008
Sunday, November 2, 2008
A few thoughts on family history
Posted by Barbara Whiteside at 9:57 AM
Labels: thoughts on family history
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This morning (Sunday), I completed my fifteen mile long run in two hours and change and for those of you who are wondering, it's about an 8:07 per mile pace. That sounds a bit crazy right? When I stopped running, it finally sunk in that I completed 112 days straight of running, an 80 mile week and it truly is my last year as a collegiate athlete. So now that the crazy mileage is over, what's next is the REAL work. But before I start thinking about running fast, I get to have my first day off tomorrow (Monday) in 112 days and I am actually looking forward to NOT running. As for the rest of the team, it is going to be a bumpy road, but I have a great feeling that we will surprise people come conference time. The following is my own 900 mile survival guide packed with essential gear, crazy food items and other quirky things that have helped me survive my last summer training.
1. Gatorade, so this should be no brainer but I've gone through GALLONS of gatorade over the past 16 weeks that I think it could actually come through my pores.
Favorite flavor: strawberry-orange
2. Nicknames, I have numerous amount of nicknames including speedy, legs, fast godiva and "Comet" by Coker's own Melinda Holland and hopefully I can produce the times to back them up
3. Oreos, okay so when you end up burning 8,000 calories or more a week from running junk food always slips in there and nothing caps off a good day of running like oreos yumm
4. Garmin 110, it's a runner's dream to take out the guesswork from training and this does it all. It tracks distance, pace, calories and heart rate.
5. Orange juice+calcium, 100% pure squeezed OJ, nothing compares
6. Camelbak, on long runs I hate stopping for a break and a sleek hydration pack with gatorade keeps me moving through those long 15 milers
7. Strength coach, it's great having someone who keeps you on your toes and constantly reminds you that you can't let the strength slip through the miles (thanks RUF)
8. Crazy spandex shorts, as a runner there's not a lot you can do to make it interesting so something like lime green cheetah spandex shorts does the trick (look fast, think fast, run fast)
9. Ice baths, soaking in ice at least twice a week helps the recovery process in between double runs and hard tempos but don't get me wrong the initial 90 seconds hurts
10. Running buddies and of course the FANS, even if they can't run with you and they're hundreds of miles away having people to share the highs and lows with is a HUGE plus
The summer has come to a close and preseason is in full swing and if you're feeling up to it take on one of us cobras you can catch us at 5:30 AM and 7PM daily. Our first meet is September 4th at Guilford College in Greensboro, NC. If you're in the area for Labor Day weekend come check us out and witness one of the toughest and under respected sports out there, might even see a record or two broken. Thanks to all of you that have kept up with me this summer and be sure to follow throughout the season. Until next time, happy running!
Your running enthusiast,
Kendyl Seawright


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GravityJack needed a new button or icon design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 73 designs submitted by 19 freelance designers.
We are a software development firm working for a client with an amazing and intuitive organizational product for several mobile platforms.
Target audience is the mobile phone demographic that purchases applications for their devices. Business men and women, private individuals, anyone with a lot of data.
The logo needs to incorporate the name of the application (MyTilez) maybe in Metro font or something similar. It should be simple and elegant, yet modern. The application is very simple, elegant and intuitive and has a very symmetrical layout and feel to it, so the logo should be all of those things as well.
Basic design of the app is a grid of tiles that store data, and there are layers of grids beneath each tile that exist in a hierarchy.
Previous examples which the client did not like were multicolored and had tile graphics to one side or the other of the title which threw off the balance of the design when implemented where the title is in the example screen shot.


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LocationWixom, MI
25000 Assembly Park Dr.
Wixom, MI 48393
New 2018 Winnebago View 24G
Take to the road in this Winnebago View class C diesel coach and know that you will have everything you need to enjoy spending time away from home. Model 24G features double slides for added space, a rear bedroom, and sleeping for four or five.
Step inside and enjoy a slide out booth dinette straight ahead for meals, or just for hanging out.
The kitchen area is to the left of the entry door and features a double sink, a two burner cook-top, and refrigerator. You will also find plenty of overhead cabinets for storage too. Above the sink area is where you will find a 28" HDTV for viewing when seated at the dinette opposite.
Beyond the dinette heading toward the rear of the coach you will find a side bath with a shower, toilet, and a unique swivel sink. A nice size wardrobe is found just around the corner from the bath along the curb side wall next to the refrigerator before you step into the bedroom floor area.
The rear bedroom in model 24G features a slide out rear queen sized bed with overhead storage cabinets for your things. There is also a spot to mount a flat screen 24" HDTV in the bedroom just off the foot of the bed along the wall.
Why not enjoy this Winnebago View class C diesel on your next adventure!
Like most: It is a pleasure for me to write this letter of commendation on behalf of several of your employees in Orange Park, Florida, who have displayed exemplary and professional service to me and should be commended. These individuals are Alan Dulberger, Harry Rosenburg, and Frank Krawczyk. I have been a RV owner for more than 13 years and love it. My first RV was purchased with Dick Gore. My ... More » - Lee from Orange Park, FL
Stock# 149572
Chassis: Sprinter
|25 ft 5 in
|Ext Width
|7 ft 6 in
|Ext Height
|11 ft 2 in
|Int Height
|6 ft 8 in
|Hitch Weight
|5000 lbs
|Gross Weight
|11030 lbs
|Fresh Water Capacity
|31 gals
|Grey Water Capacity
|40 gals
|Black Water Capacity
|34 gals
|Furnace BTU
|20000 btu
|Onan 3600
|Fuel Type
|Mercedes-Benz 3.0L
The Company markets its recreational vehicles on a wholesale basis to a diversified dealer organization located throughout the U.S., and Canada.
Mission Statement at Winnebago Industries - "Moving forward with innovation and quality." Winnebago remains committed to providing its customers high quality, great value, efficient design, and eye-catching style in all the recreational vehicles it produces.
General RV works hard to ensure the accuracy of all its listings however we are not responsible for any misprints, typos, or errors found in our website pages. Any price listed excludes sales tax, registration tags, and delivery fees. Manufacturer-provided pictures, specifications and features may be used as needed. Inventory shown may be only a partial listing of the entire inventory. Please contact us at 888-436-7578 for availability as our inventory changes rapidly. All calculated payments are an estimate only and do not constitute a commitment that financing or a specific interest rate or term is available.


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Sunday, March 14, 2010
The Army Life for Me
At the beginning of November Ben left for the Army. I know, it is a shocker. Before he left we had a lot of fun celebrating Halloween and such. We went to a farm and got to go through some huge corn maze. The night before Halloween we went to our church's Trunk or Treat. Ben and I dressed up as Chicago Bears Super Fans. Actually, he was a Super Fan; I was just a fan.
At the beginning of November Ben finally left for Basic Training. I say finally because it took three different tries before his recruiters submitted all of his paperwork completely. Don't get me wrong, I love my husband. But after saying goodbye several days in a row and getting up at four in the morning, I was ready for the emotional roller coaster to be over. Despite being numb with exhaustion when he finally left, it didn't take long for the feeling to seep back into me as I realized that he was really gone.
Basic Training was tough. Ben always said that the hardest part was being away from me. Obviously, with the lack of push ups and training I had to do, the separation was the worst part for me too. I did not like not being allowed to talk to him. Writing letters turned out to be rather cathartic but it was hard to feel the connection between us. I eventually wrote him everyday, but by the time I got a letter from him he was responding to something that I had written over a week before. I suppose my impatience with the postal system only goes to show that I really am a product of the times. Despite my protests I have really been spoiled by the many recent technological advances.
Luckily, Ben got a two week break for Exodus and came home for a visit around Christmas. It was a little weird seeing him at first. I was completely prepared for my husband to be unbearably ugly with his high and tight haircut, but, fortunately, my love goggles kicked in and I didn't notice (love goggles are similar to beer goggles but are activated with love instead of alcohol). I did however notice his weight loss. My dear husband (DH) is plenty skinny all on his own, but Basic sucked 10 pounds from him. Many people thought he looked like an old sickly man in our Christmas picture (at bottom of post). Poor DH, I still think you look good.
We had fun celebrating Christmas together and enjoying time together in our fully decorated and festive apartment. It was nice to relax with him the entire time. I had quit my job a little before DH came home, so I ended up only having to work two days while he was here. It was so amazing to spend so much time together. I realized during those days that I was truly happy. Unfortunately, I did not maintain that happiness for very long.
Posted by Ben and Natasha at 3:42 PM
Labels: Army, Army Wife, Basic Training, Christmas, Exodus
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BOM is closing down for Christmas. But before we go let's leave you with a riddle to ponder over the mince pies.
Tyler has been doing some more work on the pay gap between the public and private sectors. As everyone surely knows by now, average public sector pay is considerably higher than private sector pay. When we last blogged it, we reckoned the public sector premium stands at an astonishing 50% - once we take account of the full cost of those gold plated pensions.
How did we reach that conclusion? We based it on the following analysis from the Office for National Statistics, which compares the public and private sectors in terms of both gross pay and total reward (ie including employers' pension contributions):
The conclusion is overwhelming - for both men and women, for both high and low earners, for incomes including and excluding pensions, public sector employees do much better than private sector. The median full-time employee in the public sector gets nearly 30% more than his/her counterpart in the private sector, once we take account of the employer's pension contribution.
And in truth, the public sector does even better than the ONS numbers suggest. That's because the ONS only takes account of the employers' explicit pension contribution, a contribution that hugely understates the true cost of public sector pensions.
As we blogged here, the true cost of public sector pensions as a percentage of salary averages around 25% more than current pension contributions. Which means that we need to gross up the public sector total reward numbers even further. At the median income level that takes the public sector premium up to a staggering 50%+.
All of which is pretty shocking.
But the public sector unions and their supporters have come up with an answer. They say that the public sector premium reflects the fact that public sector employees are on average better qualified than their private sector counterparts.
Here for example is what the TUC says:
"The obvious retort to the small-state brigade when they harp on about average pay [do they mean us?] is that the private and public sector workforces are different. As the private sector employs more unskilled workers on the minimum wage than the public sector, and the public sector has a high proportion of professional workers (such as teachers and doctors) it is not surprising that average pay is higher in the public sector...And the TUC is quite right - the proportion of public sector employees who are graduates is indeed much higher than it is in the private sector. In fact, at nearly 40%, it is twice as high.
...there has been a big growth in employment of graduates in the public sector over the last ten years – much bigger than in the private sector. Even in 1998 the public sector was already employing more graduates. Given that graduates are paid more than others, this in itself would tend to make average public sector pay higher. There are quite significant decreases in the proportion of public sector staff with higher education short of a degree (which we will call diplomas for simplicity) and those with other qualifications."
Now, the TUC reckons that explains why public sector pay is higher. They're better qualified than the dolts working in the private sector, so naturally they get paid more.
Whether qualification and other differences really do explain the earnings gap is the very thing Tyler is currently attempting to bottom out. But it raises another perhaps even more critical question - in our current parlous economic state can it possibly make sense to have so many of our expensively educated graduates working in the public sector?
Because as the TUC highlights, although the public sector "only" employs just over 20% of Britain's manpower, it employs 40% of our graduates. 40%.
Can we afford to have 40% of our best brains working in the non-wealth producing public sector? Don't we need them in the private sector creating the prosperity that will power us out of Labour's economic crater?
That's a real Christmas riddle.
What's that?
Most of those supposed public sector grads are no such thing? Their growth merely reflects the "significant decreases in the proportion of public sector staff with higher education short of a degree (which we will call diplomas for simplicity)"? Many of those new public sector grads are merely redesignated diploma holders (like nurses)?
Hmm. You've probably got a point there.
The mince pies are calling. Happy Christmas everyone.