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Freedom in the World
You are here
2012 Scores
Freedom Rating (1 = best, 7 = worst)
Civil Liberties (1 = best, 7 = worst)
Political Rights (1 = best, 7 = worst)
Former vice president Ikililou Dhoinine was sworn in as president on May 26, 2011, after winning a December 2010 election. An opposition party in September filed a corruption complaint against Dhoinine's predecessor, Ahmed Abdallah Sambi, for alleged misuse of public funds while in office.
The Union of the Comoros comprises three islands: Grande Comore, Anjouan, and Mohéli. Mayotte, the fourth island of the archipelago, voted to remain under French rule in 1974. Two mercenary invasions and at least 18 other coups have shaken the Comoros since it gained independence from France in 1975. The 1996 presidential election was considered free and fair by international monitors, but Anjouan and Mohéli fell under the control of separatists the following year. A 1999 coup restored order, installing Colonel Azali Assoumani as leader of the country, and led to the signing of a reconciliation agreement. A 2001 referendum approved a new constitution that increased autonomy for the three islands. Azali won the federal presidency in the 2002 election after his two opponents claimed fraud and withdrew. However, Azali supporters captured only 6 of the 33 seats in the 2004 federal legislative elections, and Ahmed Abdallah Sambi—a moderate Islamist preacher and businessman—won the federal presidency in May 2006.
Mohamed Bacar, the president of the island of Anjouan, organized unauthorized elections in 2007 to extend his rule and claimed to have won with 90 percent of the vote. However, in March 2008, an African Union military force removed him from power, and Moussa Toybou, a Sambi supporter, was elected in June 2008.
In a May 2009 referendum, voters approved constitutional reforms that increased the powers of the federal government at the expense of the individual island governments. The reforms instituted a rotation of the federal presidency among the islands every five (previously four) years, downgraded individual island presidents to the status of governors, limited the size of cabinets, empowered the president to dissolve the federal parliament, and allowed the president to rule by decree with the parliament's approval.
In December 2009 legislative elections, the president's supporters—the Baobab coalition—won 19 of the 24 directly elected seats. Sambi's term of office expired in May 2010, but an election to choose his successor was postponed due to political disputes. This delay provoked tension, especially among residents of Mohéli, which was the next island scheduled to hold the office of federal president.
In December 2010, Sambi's protégé, Vice President Ikililou Dhoinine, won the presidential election with 61 percent of the vote. He became the first president of Comoros from Mohéli. His main rival, Mohamed Said Fazul, claimed fraud. However, the national election monitoring group upheld the legitimacy of the election, and Dhoinine was sworn in on May 26, 2011. Opponents alleged that the long transition period, combined with the delayed election, effectively extended Sambi's term by one year.
Large numbers of Comorans illegally emigrate to Mayotte to settle or to seek entry into metropolitan France, and the economy depends heavily on remittances and foreign aid. In 2009, the global economic downturn contributed to delays and suspensions of public-sector salary payments and a decline in public services. These problems continued in 2011; in June, the legislature took action to try to reduce the government's unsustainably high wage burden by reining in civil service salaries.
Comoros is an electoral democracy. Since 1996, Comorans have voted freely in several parliamentary and presidential elections. The unicameral Assembly of the Union consists of 33 members, with 9 selected by the assemblies of the three islands and 24 by direct popular vote; all members serve five-year terms. Prior to the 2009 reforms, 15 seats had been appointed by the islands' assemblies and 18 had been elected. Each of the three islands also has an individual parliament, which is directly elected. Political parties are mainly defined by their positions regarding the division of power between the federal and local governments.
Corruption remains a major problem. There have been reports of corruption at all levels of the government, judiciary, and civil service, as well as among the police and security forces. In September 2011, the opposition Convention for the Renewal of the Comoros (CRC), led by former president Azali Assoumani, filed a complaint in a Moroni court against former president Ahmed Abdallah Sambi for alleged misuse of public funds while in office; the case was still pending at year's end. Comoros was ranked 143 out of 183 countries surveyed in Transparency International's 2011 Corruption Perceptions Index.
The constitution and laws provide for freedom of speech and of the press, though self-censorship is reportedly widespread. In March 2011, two journalists were charged with "publishing false news" for articles suggesting that the scheduled May 26 inauguration of President-elect Ikililou Dhoinine could be delayed. The public prosecutor considered these reports "of a nature to trouble public order."
Islam is the state religion, and 99 percent of the population is Sunni Muslim. Tensions have occasionally arisen between Sunni and Shiite Muslims, and non-Muslims are reportedly subject to restrictions, detentions, and harassment. Conversion from Islam and non-Muslim proselytizing are illegal. Academic freedom is generally respected.
The government typically upholds freedoms of assembly and association. However, security forces in the past have responded to demonstrations with excessive force. A few human rights and other nongovernmental organizations operate in the country. Workers have the right to bargain collectively and to strike, but collective bargaining is rare. In January 2010, teachers went on strike to protest nonpayment of salaries.
The judicial system is based on both Sharia (Islamic law) and the French legal code, and is subject to influence by the executive branch and other elites. Minor disputes are often settled informally by village elders. Harsh prison conditions include severe overcrowding and inadequate sanitation, medical care, and nutrition.
The law prohibits discrimination based on gender. However, in practice, women enjoy little political representation or economic equality, and they have far fewer opportunities for education and salaried employment than men, especially in rural areas. Sexual violence is believed to be widespread, but is rarely reported to authorities.


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I bet Martin Gardner, author of Undiluted Hocus-Pocus: The Autobiography of Martin Gardner, never imagined that his autobiography would stir up so much controversy. Since Gardner unfortunately passed away after the completion of his book but before it was officially released, some people have been saying that he did not actually write it and that it was pieced together by his friends and published under his name.
To set the record straight, Vickie Kearn, the Mathematics Editor here at Princeton University Press who worked closely with Gardner during the writing and editing process of this book, is speaking out about her experience with Gardner to prove once and for all that he is the author of Undiluted Hocus-Pocus. The full article can be found here at Wild About Math.

subset: commoncrawl


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WG Customer Care
In-Building BDA Specialist
WG Sales
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The magic wasn't just in the new technology. It was that WirelessGuys knew how to tune the system and make the necessary planning decisions. That is what we value them so highly for. The expertise they brought to the table was just incredible!
"I've had several questions since the project was completed and WirelessGuys has supported me in every way, even when the issues we faced weren't part of their wireless installation at all."
"WirelessGuys' sales and technical staffs are very good and easy to work with."
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Selena Gomez Forced To Switch To Secret Hotel In Bulgaria
Poor, Selena! The teen starlet reportedly has to move hotels because fans in Bulgaria aren't letting her sleep!
Despite efforts to keep Selena Gomez's lodging details a secret, fans in Bulgaria were able to track the young actress down at her hotel. The teen queen is there to film the upcoming action flick The Getaway with co-star Ethan Hawke.
Shooting is taking place at night, so Selena is expected to sleep during the day. But according to Offnews.bg, a Bulgarian entertainment site, fans found out that Selena was staying at the Grand Hotel Sofia and wouldn't leave her alone.
They were outside shouting her name to come out, when she was just trying to get some shut eye before a long night of work. Selena will be moving to an undisclosed location on Saturday, so she can be on top of her game for the rest of the movie shoot.
While we know Selena loves her fans, we hope that they let Selena keep shooting without too many disruptions. Tell us what YOU think? Do you think it's wrong for her fans to keep her from sleeping?
Nicole Fukuoka
More Selena:


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Survey Finds a Generation Growing More Cautious and Realistic Regarding Their Long-Term Retirement Strategy
LOS ANGELES–(BUSINESS WIRE)–While the U.S. economy has accelerated in the last year, Americans 55 and older – many of whom saw their retirements stung by the financial crisis – are course-correcting their lifestyle plans, work/leisure expectations and investing strategies, according to a study released today by AIG Life and Retirement in collaboration with Age Wave.
According to the AIG Retirement Re-Set Study, 72% of the survey respondents said the recent economic uncertainty provided a "financial wake-up call." And 80% of those 55 and older said they are now more cautious in their approach to investing. They are far more likely to seek financial peace of mind as a key goal versus potentially higher – but riskier – returns.
"Americans are rightfully concerned about retirement and more careful in their investment strategies," said Jay Wintrob, President and CEO of AIG Life and Retirement. "The 2008 global financial crisis provided a financial wake-up call that people have taken to heart. They are now seeking a safer and more predictable road to retirement, one with less risk and more financial security.
"In a new era of flux and uncertainty, Americans are rebounding from a difficult period and showing their resilience by turning toward greater expense control and more responsible retirement planning," said Ken Dychtwald, CEO of Age Wave. "Lessons learned have not been forgotten. Many people are adapting a new retirement mindset and are choosing to work a bit longer, thereby helping to make retirement more affordable. They are re-setting their sights on a revised, more achievable path to retirement.
The 2012 survey, conducted online within the United States by Harris Interactive among 3,426 respondents aged 55 or older, follows last year's noteworthy study which unearthed a new approach to post-recession retirement strategies. AIG Life and Retirement and Age Wave first partnered in 2001 on a groundbreaking Re-Visioning Retirement Survey
This year's survey found that more than four times as many people chose saving enough to have "financial peace of mind" (61%) as a top financial priority compared to accumulating as much wealth as possible (14%)
Eight times as many people (32%) plan to look into ways to protect existing assets than those who plan to invest more aggressively to make up for lost time (4%) in response to the recent economic and financial market uncertainty. And 54% expressed concern about their personal financial situation, saying they felt less financially secure than they did a year ago
"The impact of the most difficult economy in generations has left a lasting impression, with Americans seeing their retirement savings jeopardized by low interest rates and high market volatility," Mr. Wintrob said. "While the stock market and economy have somewhat rebounded, the confidence that many Americans once had has diminished. People are now looking for stable, lower-risk strategies that will provide the income and security they need in retirement.
According to Dr. Dychtwald, "It's notable that protecting themselves and their families from investment surprises is of utmost importance to men and women nearing or in retirement. While there has been a great deal of discussion about the economic impact of the past few years, this survey revealed that the psychological impact was also substantial – and a new mindset is emerging. Today, people are far more likely to recognize the need to scale back some of their retirement expectations while stepping up their saving and responsible financial planning.
"Financial peace of mind is critical for Americans today," Mr. Wintrob said. "We are keenly focused on providing the protection, investment and income solutions needed for financial and retirement security, and I'm confident that the entire financial services industry will play an important role in helping Americans improve their retirement outlook and prepare for tomorrow.
For more information regarding this national study and its findings, please visit http://aigretirementreset.com.
AIG Retirement Re-Set Study Methodology
This survey was conducted online by Harris Interactive within the United States on behalf of AIG Life and Retirement and AgeWave between August 28 – September 7, 2012 among a nationwide cross section of 3,426 adults aged 55 and over. No estimates of theoretical sampling error can be calculated; a full methodology is available.
About AIG Life and Retirement
AIG Life and Retirement is one of the largest and strongest life insurance and retirement services organizations in the United States. The organization traces its origins to 1850 and today is among the largest issuers of annuities and life insurance in the United States, as well as a leading provider of defined contribution plans in the education and healthcare markets. Through its American General, AGLA, VALIC, Western National, SunAmerica, FSC Securities, Royal Alliance, SagePoint Financial and Woodbury Financial brands, it offers a diversified portfolio of life insurance, investment and retirement savings products. AIG Life and Retirement serves over 18 million customers and its products are sold by over 300,000 financial professionals. For more information, please visit www.aig.com/lifeandretirement.
About Age Wave
Age Wave is the nation's foremost thought leader on population aging and its profound business, social, healthcare, financial, workforce and cultural implications. Under the leadership of Founder/CEO Dr. Ken Dychtwald, Age Wave has developed a unique understanding of the body, mind, hopes and demands of new generations of maturing consumers and workers and their expectations, attitudes, hopes, and fears regarding retirement. Since its inception in 1986, the firm has provided breakthrough research, compelling presentations, award-winning communications, education and training systems and results-driven marketing and consulting initiatives to over half the Fortune 500. For more information, please visitwww.agewave.com.
About Harris Interactive
Harris Interactive is one of the world's leading market research firms, leveraging research, technology, and business acumen to transform relevant insight into actionable foresight. Known widely for the Harris Poll® and for pioneering innovative research methodologies, Harris offers proprietary solutions in the areas of market and customer insight, corporate brand and reputation strategy, and marketing, advertising, public relations and communications research. Harris possesses expertise in a wide range of industries including health care, technology, public affairs, energy, telecommunications, financial services, insurance, media, retail, restaurant, and consumer package goods. Additionally, Harris has a portfolio of multi-client offerings that complement our custom solutions while maximizing our client's research investment. Serving clients in more than 196 countries and territories through our North American and European offices, Harris specializes in delivering research solutions that help us – and our clients – stay ahead of what's next. For more information, please visitwww.harrisinteractive.com.


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There have been more leaks about the innovations we may see with the iPhone 5S and the iPhone 6.
While there may be no major shake-up in terms of design for the iPhone 5S, users may see a significantly improved display. The phone could also come with a 12 megapixel camera and dual LED flash.
There may also be some form of fingerprint scanner, an idea which has been doing the rounds since a developer found plans for biometric scanning in a folder tucked away in the iOS7 beta.
Looking ahead to the iPhone 6, patent filings have suggested this smartphone might be the first in the world to have a liquid metal handset, and could be launched along with a plastic-bodied budget iPhone as early as this autumn.
But a statement by Apple CEO Tim Cook would seem to suggest there will be no larger screen in the new version of the phone.
"Some customers value large screen size, others value other factors such as resolution, colour quality, white balance, brightness, reflectivity, screen longevity, power consumption, portability, compatibility with apps and many things," he said.
"Our competitors had made some significant trade-offs in many of these areas in order to ship a larger display. We would not ship a larger display iPhone while these trade-offs exist."
This is a Future Publishing production.


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U.S. Equal Employment
Opportunity Commission
Federal Agency Said Richardson Company Allowed Male Co-Workers to Sexually Harass the Only Woman in the Department, Then Fired Her for Objecting
DALLAS – Richardson, Texas-based Childress Engineering Services, Inc. has settled a sexual harassment lawsuit brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) on the fourth day of trial, before the case was submitted to the jury, the federal agency announced today. The settlement pays the discrimination victim in this case $55,000 and provides extensive injunctive relief to prevent future unlawful conduct.
The EEOC's suit, filed in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, Dallas Division (3:09-CV-1762-K), charged that Childress Engineering subjected former computer-aided drafting (CAD) technician Jennifer Green to a sexually hostile work environment.
According to the EEOC, all six male CAD Technicians in Green's department daily subjected her to a barrage of vulgar sexual slurs and "jokes." The EEOC further charged that Green reported the harassment to three different management officials, but the company did nothing to stop the harassment until after she filed a charge with the EEOC in 2008 – almost 15 months after her first complaint to the company. The EEOC contended that despite Green's EEOC charge the company failed to discipline the harassers, who admitted to the lewd conduct and even testified to it at trial. The company fired Green a month after she filed the EEOC charge.
Sexual harassment and retaliation for complaining about it violate Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The EEOC filed suit after first attempting to reach a pre-litigation settlement through its conciliation process. Dallas attorneys John and Margaret Schulman intervened in the EEOC's case on Green's behalf. Settlement by means of a consent decree was reached before the conclusion of the trial on May 12.
"I contacted the EEOC when nothing else seemed to work," said Green. "I hope this settlement and the order signed by the judge will help me put these experiences behind me and move forward with my life. Most of all, I want other women to know they do not have to put up with this kind of abuse and that the EEOC can help put an end to it."
In addition to monetary relief, the consent decree signed by U.S. District Judge Ed Kinkeade, on May 24, 2011, includes injunctive terms such as requiring the company to:
EEOC Senior Trial Attorney Devika Seth, the lead attorney on the case, said, "This was an outrageous case of sexual harassment where a lone woman was ganged up on daily by her male co-workers. The very people who should have protected her – her managers – refused to pay attention to the harassment and did nothing to stop the behavior. Instead, the company fired Ms. Green in response to her pleas that the harassment stop. We hope that this settlement sends a message to employers that a dismissive approach to reports of discrimination will not be tolerated, and that the EEOC will act to ensure compliance with the law."
The EEOC enforces federal laws that prohibiting employment discrimination. Further information about the agency is available on its web site at www.eeoc.gov.


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If you were at AT&T Park on Wednesday watching World Series Game 1, you might be able to find yourself in a high-resolution panoramic photo posted on Major League Baseball's website, MLB.com, and share it with your Facebook friends.
In an interesting combination of digital photography and social networking, MLB.com stitched together 280 photos shot in a 17-minute span during the Giants 11-7 win over the Texas Rangers and created a single photo, which you can find HERE.
You can zoom in so close you can see your face and then tag yourself to share on Facebook. You can also find other Facebook friends who have tagged themselves.
And if you zoom in to the area near the Giants dugout, you can see former Giants slugger Barry Bonds stuffing his face with garlic fries.
However, if you were in the bleachers, arcade or upper deck in the left field corner, you're out of luck. The "TagOramic" photo doesn't extend that far.
MLB.com spokesman Matthew Gould said baseball experimented with the panoramic last year and fans seemed to enjoy it. So baseball brought it back this year for the playoffs and added social networking.
– Posted by Benny Evangelista


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- Free Consultation and Quote
- Most Reputable Company
- Certified by Recycling Association
- Certified Carpet Repair
We make sure that you recognize what should be expected
You will need to be well informed with regards to Carpet Repair in Orwell, NY. We will never let you make ill advised decisions, since we understand what we are undertaking, and we ensure that you know very well what to be expecting with the work. That is why we make every effort to ensure you are familiar with the steps and are not confronted by any kind of unexpected surprises. Start off by contacting 800-807-1247 to go over your job. We'll review your questions and concerns whenever you call us and help you get organized with an appointment. We always get there at the arranged time, ready to work closely with you.
Carpet Repair Team is going to be there for all of your requirements regarding Carpet Repair in Orwell, Wyoming
You've got lots of great reasons to turn to Carpet Repair Team for your needs involving Carpet Repair in Orwell, NY. We have the best customer service ratings, the best equipment, and the most effective and successful money saving solutions. We have got the experience you need to meet all your ambitions. Call 800-807-1247 to connect with Carpet Repair Team and go over your needs when it comes to Carpet Repair in Orwell.


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Academic Exchanges
Become a world student and discover our 270 strategies alliances that USIL has in Asia, Europe, Oceania and America. Being an entrepreneurs without barriers.
Become a world student and discover our 270 strategies alliances that USIL has in Asia, Europe, Oceania and America. Being an entrepreneurs without barriers.
Al evento asistieron los representantes del Vicerrectorado Internacional Rosmery Barreto, directora de Movilidad Internacional, y Marco Rinaldi, jefe de Convenios Internacionales, quienes presentaron a las representantes de la UBA, María Florencia Lofano, ejecutiva de Convenios Iberoamericanos, y
The first group of students from the College of Hospitality Management, Tourism Administration and Gastronomy flew to Dubai on September 4 for a three-month exchange at The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management (EAHM). The students will take courses for their major in English, following which they will be able to apply for a 3-month internship at one of the hotels or companies in the group.
From August 13 to 22, 11 students from the USIL Green Program visited the university's Extension Center in the city of Cusco to participate in academic activities as part of the Water Resource Management and Sustainable Practices course. These students from the United States visited different s related to renewable energy management and good practices in environmental management.
Are you fluent in a language other than Spanish? Are you interested in serving and helping others? Would you like to let the world know about the best Peru has to offer? Maybe you don't know it yet, but you could join the USIL Ambassadors.
In line with our slogan, the Office of the Vice President of International Relations has achieved an increase in the number of USIL students registered to participate in foreign academic exchange programs during the 2015-02 semester.
With great expectation and excitement, more than 120 international students who will be attending USIL this semester were welcomed by the team from the Office of the Vice President of International Relations at a welcome ceremony held on Monday, August 10 on the USIL Fernando Belaunde Terry Campu
Every year, the number of USIL students who go to universities abroad for academic exchanges increases.
The founding president of Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola (USIL), Raúl Diez Canseco Terry, participated in the Global New Fortune Forum, held on June 5 in Hangzhou, China.
A delegation of USIL international students, who are currently attending classes at the university's Extension Center in Cusco, participated in this year's parade held on June 23, the anniversary of the Imperial City.
The San Ignacio de Loyola Organization operates in Peru, the USA and Paraguay, and has plans to begin operations in Panama in the near future.
This year, Coloring Dreams was launched.


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silver spoon needed a new logo design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 76 designs submitted by 31 freelance designers.
I need a nice logo titled:
Silver Spoon Investments
Silver Spoon Investments
Desired Color Scheme:
Silver or grey / purple
Desired Style:
classic or contemporary
Accepted File Formats:
Standard Web Formats (.jpg, .gif or .png)
I would prefer to use silver(grey) and purple as the main colors. Some black and white in there maybe ok. I am open. I would also like to see an image of a spoon somewhere in the logo, but I am open to a logo without the image of the spoon also.
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.


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Colorado flood: Wine, work and relief in Boulder
Boulder writer and entrepreneur Amy Segreti will host Work ŌĆśn Wine: A Coworking & Wine Tasting Benefit for Foothills Flood Relief Sept. 26 in Boulder. Suggested donation is $10 to $25 (or more).
All of the proceeds will go to United Way's Foothills Flood Relief Fund for Boulder and Broomfiled counties.
Mingle and work on creative projects starting at 3 p.m., and taste wine donated, in part, by Liquor Mart starting at 4:30 p.m., at Scrib, 2060 Broadway St. Suite B1, Boulder.
In her invitation posted on Facebook, Amy promises you will:
-Taste fine wine
-Be inspired and engaged
-Learn more about becoming a successful entrepreneur
-Groove to some chill, fantastic beats
-Benefit Boulder flood relief


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I think something tends to get lost along the way these days: In Destiny, we first and foremost play the game.
If you're in for something different, chances are you're not in the right place.
Make sure you keep that in mind.
Play the game
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And then.. when the sun goes down… yeah well, I think this is the magic moment in every festivals, don't you think?
Jans Berden / 18 / Social work student
"I chose this outfit because the top and sunglasses look vintage and I like that. This summer was a very cold and rainy summer so in Hungary I could finally wear short pants."
1. Where do you come from?
2. Where are you going after the Festival?
I'm going to study in Breda, Holland.
3. What was the best thing in these days?
The amazing artists and bands and the great atmosphere
4. What was the worst thing in these days?
The mornings
5. How many beers have you drink so far?
I didn't count them
6. What do you remind of Magyar languages?
The only thing I know is that "Sziget" means "Island". It doesn't look like any language I know.
Top: I bought it in a small shop near my village.
Pants: H&M
Shoes: Footwork (Men at Work)
Sunglasses: Primark


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SouthPeak pins TNA Wrestling
Publisher grabs license from Midway bankruptcy, confirms DS, PSP installments of Impact; Two Worlds 2 set for spring; publisher's sales double, turns a profit.
Publisher grabs license from Midway bankruptcy, confirms DS, PSP installments of Impact; Two Worlds 2 set for spring; publisher's sales double, turns a profit.
[UPDATE] Final Midway developer scooped up by WWE and UFC publisher; deal does not include TNA Impact! license; UK, French offices bought for €1 ($1.42)
While Midway's financial troubles have been well-documented, it seems like the company is on the verge of rescue, thanks to a $33 million buyout from Warner Brothers Interactive Entertainment. While ...
Mortal Kombat maker cleared to emerge from bankruptcy thanks to $33 million acquisition offer.
Media giant offers to buy assets of bankrupt publisher, including Mortal Kombat and Wheelman; deal would not cover TNA license, San Diego and Newcastle studios.
Bankruptcy court approves incentive plan that sees key employees reap reduced bonuses, but company first needs to survive or sell for at least $30 million.
US bankruptcy court approves use of cash for continued operations; bondholders file formal objection over mystery buyer's dealings as New York market ceases trading shares of publisher.
Faced with $240 million debt deadline, the once-mighty Mortal Kombat maker files for Chapter 11 protection; Mortal Kombat vs. DC shipments near 2 million.
SEC filing says Mortal Kombat publisher has 50 days to pay off $150 million in debt; default could trigger subsequent $90 million repayment; company's assets total only $167.5 million.
Midway confirms next installment in wrestling franchise set for release sometime next year.
July-Sept. losses more than double on charges the Mortal Kombat maker took to cancel underperforming IPs; Redstone quits board.
EA kick off the virtual soccer season for 2009.
EA's fantasy MMOG part of busy week at retail that includes Rock Band 2, Star Wars: The Force Unleashed, Pure, Crysis Warhead, and more.
Good old beatdown in TNA Impact.
Let's take this outside the ring, TNA Impact.
No forum topics for TNA iMPACT! yet. Want to start us off? Create a new topic.
Use your keyboard!
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Publications Tagged: counterasymmetry
- Added September 01, 2000
- American Strategy: Issues and Alternatives for the Quadrennial Defense Review. Authored by Dr. Steven Metz.
- The combination of a congressionally-mandated Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR), a change of presidents, and shifts in the global security environment will force or allow American strategists to rethink some of the basic elements of U.S. strategy and decide if any changes need to be made.


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Amarillo police are searching for a man they said robbed an Amarillo National Bank branch Saturday morning by threatening a teller with a handgun.
No injuries were reported, and no arrests have been made, authorities said.
About 10:35 a.m., the man approached a bank teller at the bank's 3390 Soncy Road branch and quietly demanded money from a teller while displaying part of a weapon, police said.
The man then left in an unknown direction with an undisclosed amount of cash, authorities said.
The robber was described by police as a slender white or light-skinned Hispanic man in his 20s or 30s, about 6 feet tall and weighing 160 pounds. They said he was wearing a dark pullover knit-style cap, a brown or olive-colored Carhartt-style jacket, blue jeans and brown shoes.
The man might still be armed with a handgun, police said.
Police ask anyone with information on the robbery to call 806-378-3038.


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As the countdown to the thaw of spring begins, over 200 species of birds are gearing up for their annual, epic journey. Some will clock 10,000 miles on their way back to the United States and Canada from the balmy climates of regions further south. Although birds are on the move nearly every day, this period of Neotropical migration is the most predictable time for movement, and volunteer birders across the country will take to the outdoors to count the traveling birds. In preparation for the return of these raptors, songbirds, and shorebirds, Princeton University Press brings you four essential birding guides.
In both The Crossley ID Guide: Eastern Birds and The Crossley ID Guide: Raptors, acclaimed photographer and birder Richard Crossley has introduced a new way to not only look at birds, but to truly see them. With a highly visual approach which emphasizes shape, size, and habitat through carefully designed scenes in which multiple birds of different sexes, ages, and plumages interact with realistic habitats, the birder can better grasp the characteristics of each species. Unlike other guides which provide isolated individual photographs or illustrations, these books feature large, lifelike scenes for each species, in order to bring a more practical approach to bird identification. There are also comparative, multispecies scenes and mystery photographs that allow readers to test their identification skills, along with answers and full explanations in the back of the book. Begin reading the Introduction of The Crossley ID Guide: Eastern Birds and the Introduction of The Crossley ID Guide: Raptors now.
With the hope of aiding birders in identifying one of the trickiest species, Tom Stephenson and Scott Whittle have created The Warbler Guide, in which the two experts offer a comprehensive look at the 56 species of warblers found in the U.S. and Canada. This groundbreaking guide features more than 1,000 stunning color photos, extensive species accounts with multiple viewing angles, and an entirely new system of vocalization analysis that helps you distinguish songs and calls. As Robert Mortensen of Birding is Fun puts it, "The Warbler Bible has come forth! This is easily the most comprehensive and fantastic warbler specific guide covering North American Warblers. I am amazed and impressed with each of its features. . . . [A] must-have book."
In the tide of the bird's natural mating cycle, there's no book more relevant than Nests, Eggs, and Nestlings of North American Birds, Second Edition by Paul J. Baicich & J.O. Harrison. This guide provides a thorough, species-by-species look at the breeding biology of some 670 species of birds in North America. With complete basic information on the breeding cycle of each species, from nest habitat to incubation to nestling period, this book covers perhaps the most fascinating aspects of North American bird life, their reproduction and the care of their young, which are essential elements in the survival of any species.
There's no better time to gain an understanding of your region's birds than during this critical spring migration period. Check out any and all of these informative books today!


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LAS VEGAS - The last time Anderson Silva clowned around in the octagon, Chris Weidman dropped him on his back and took away his UFC middleweight title.
Although Silva is serious about getting his belt back in the main event at UFC 168 tonight, the Brazilian won't say whether he'll drop the carefree style that has defined his career.
At UFC 162 last July, Silva (33-5) was pretending to be hurt when Weidman (10-0) actually cold-cocked him for a stunning victory. The result upended the MMA hierarchy, catapulting Long Island's Weidman to stardom and ending Silva's near seven-year title reign.
"Maybe I have the chance to change things," Silva said at his gym in Torrance, Calif..
Silva, 38, said he can reverse the result in the rematch, but he won't swear off the taunting and goofiness that has become his signature alongside his unmatched striking abilities. In fact, Silva doesn't even see his style as anything less than serious.
"When I go inside the ropes for a fight, I don't joke," said the fighter known for standing with hands on hips and chin protruding, daring opponents to hit him.
"I train hard mentally for this fight," Silva said. "I watched the last fight, and I see my technique, and I talk to my friends and coach. I don't train too much. My mental (approach), I change. It was bad."
Silva's attempt to right a late-career mistake is the most intriguing aspect of the UFC's traditional year-end show at the MGM Grand Garden, but it's hardly the only attraction on a stacked pay-per-view card.
Bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey will be nothing but serious when she returns to the cage after a 10-month absence for a rematch with Miesha Tate, her despised rival. Veteran heavyweights Josh Barnett and Travis Browne also meet on the main card.
While Rousey (7-0) is one of the UFC's biggest stars, she already beat Tate (13-4) with her signature armbar in the Strikeforce promotion last year. All eyes in Vegas will be focused on Silva, an even bigger star who put his career at a crossroads with his loss to Weidman, a formidable wrestler who proved his striking skills with that left hook to Silva's head.
Yet Ed Soares, Silva's longtime manager, doesn't expect Silva to fight stiffly or formally in the rematch.
"Why would he change? He wouldn't change," Soares said. "It's him. It's like asking Kobe not to shoot a certain way."
Under normal circumstances, the method of Weidman's victory - a second-round knockout of a long-reigning champ - would have cemented the Hofstra alumnus as a major star. And while Weidman has grown in stature, Silva's silly mistake got even more attention than the man who forced it.
Yet Silva isn't among those discounting Weidman's achievement and expecting Silva to resume his spot on top of the middleweight division.
"Chris is the champion, and people need to respect that," Silva said. "He's a good man. Has a great family. He's a great champion."
Silva trained at his gym in an industrial corner of Torrance. Although tucked into a quiet office park behind a refinery next to auto body shops and a telescope manufacturer, Silva's American home base can be spotted by the Bentley out front next to the big photos of himself.
After two years of training in his self-created American base, Silva clearly has a comfortable life. He could walk away from a victory at UFC 168 with his legacy secure and enough money to watch his children grow up in style.
Silva doesn't appear to be thinking about retirement, repeatedly mentioning he has eight fights left on his UFC contract. Yet he also recognizes the dangers of his chosen sport when asked whether he would allow any of his children to follow his path into MMA.
"I don't like the idea of my sons fighting," Silva said. "It's too much danger. I don't have the heart for this. I'm an old man."


text: Storing of Long Goods, Cantilever Racking - Davidsens Tømmerhandel, Denmark Sign up for our newsletter here!!! Due to an increase in demand Davidsen built three new warehouses in Odense, a total of 6000 square meters. Within these warehouses Constructor installed both cantilever racking for indoor and /outdoor use, pallet racking and 'A' racking. Davidsens Tømmerhandel A/S is a 100% Danish owned timber yard and DYI centre with 7 shops in region south, for professional and private customers. Solution: The 3 warehouses each contain cantilever racking for long goods storage and handling of both wooden packages and steel items. The pallet racking is used for the storage of all types of palletised goods, such as concrete and roofing felt. The 'A' racks are providing a well-arranged storage of articles such as fillets and skirting boards. Capacities: Number of single uprights galvanized (outdoor): 117 Number of arms galvanized: 468 Load per arm: 750 kg / 1200 mm Number of double stems – RAL 5015: 124 Load per double stem: 6400 kg Number of arms (750 kg / 1200 mm) – RAL 5015: 434 Length A racking: 100 meter Load capacity P90 pallet racking: 1250 kg / pallet Print Pdf Add


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- Width
- 99.5 in 2528.0 mm
- Height
- 48.8 in 1240.0 mm
- Weight
- 1787.9 lb 811.0 kg
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Kaye Beach
Dec. 9, 2013
My name is Kaye Beach. If you don't know me, here is the short story; I'm an ordinary woman, a Christian, a mom, and a wife. I was a small business woman for about 20 years but for the last six years I have been an activist with one mission – to stop mandatory biometric ID.
I have filed a lawsuit against the state of Oklahoma to challenge the requirement of my biometric data in exchange for a state driver's license. I believe that this requirement is a violation of my right to religious freedom and my right to be free of unwarranted searches and seizures both of which are protected under Oklahoma law. (You can read my Motion for Summary Judgment here)
Biometric means "measurement of the body." This is technology is used to measure aspects of an individual and transform this personal data into digital code for the purpose of identification. With biometrics, your body IS your ID.
Biometric identification creates a perfect connection between our bodies and information about us. It is also used to control access to places, services and goods and it is being implemented around the world through deception, coercion and stealth. Industry experts predict that within five years, the majority of the world's population will be enrolled into one or another biometric identification scheme.
The simple truth is that all of us are being enrolled into a single, global system of identification and control that links our bodies through biometrics to our ability to buy sell and travel (and more!)
My lawsuit is based on the Oklahoma Religious Freedom Act and Article II Sec. 30 of the Oklahoma constitution, our state's reiteration of the Fourth Amendment which says we have a right to be free of searches and seizures without just cause. When it comes to biometric ID, It makes no difference whether you are a Christian who is preaching the Gospel, an activist protesting injustice, or merely an ordinary person trying to work and feed your family – mandatory biometric ID means ultimate control by government.
Information is power.
As more and more of us are enrolled it is safe to predict that the balance of power that exists between the people and their governments will correspondingly shift further away from the people and towards government. History shows us that, unerringly, that such power will be abused and the window of opportunity to resist this system of human identification and control is closing.
In the US, enrollment is being accomplished largely through state driver's license and ID cards. For example, the current Immigration reform bill seeks to build upon the existing DMV biometric databases and use our biometrics to control our ability to work for a living.
And as Jennifer Lynch of the Electronic Frontier Foundation has testified,
'The FBI's Next Generation Identification (NGI) database represents the most robust effort to introduce and streamline multimodal biometrics collection. FBI has stated it needs "to collect as much biometric data as possible . . . and to make this information accessible to all levels of law enforcement, including International agencies." Accordingly, it has been working "aggressively to build biometric databases that are comprehensive and international in scope."'
The state biometric DMV databases are the foundation for corporate and government tracking and control. This is why I am fighting the state's mandatory biometric ID but I need your help in order to win.
The Constitutional Alliance writes, "Kaye Beach's lawsuit, is the only substantial challenge to government mandated biometric ID, to my knowledge, that exists anywhere in our country."
My lawsuit is challenging the compulsory nature of biometric ID. I want to know – do we have the right NOT to be enrolled? That is the question that has not been asked, that must be asked in a court of law, and this is why I am asking for your help. We have one more deposition to complete and then the case should proceed on to the courtroom. My legal representation is not free and my case will only go forward if people are willing to support it. I need to raise $20,000 for my legal fees in order to keep my agreement with my legal team and keep my case moving forward.
There are no longer any technical or political barriers to implementing this unprecedented system of global identification and financial control. The only obstacle now is you and I.
If you want to help me win this first, crucial fight against mandatory biometric enrollment I ask you to please consider contributing whatever you can, to my legal fund.
If you wish to donate to my legal defense fund, you may do so online through Paypal.com
By US mail, you can send a check or money order to;
Kaye Beach
P.O. Box 722381
Norman, Oklahoma, 73070
(Please make the check out to "Kaye Beach". You may write "legal defense fund" in the memo section of your check or money order)
Thank you and God Bless,
Kaye Beach
Follow the developments in my legal case at http://constitutionalalliance.org
Contact me at email@example.com


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Let me be the first to wish you a very happy National Cupcake Day. Yes, you heard me correctly. Today (December 15) is National Cupcake Day.
And in honor of this momentous day, I'd like to bring back a question I asked a long while back, that I'd love to ask again--you know, in case old readers' preferences have changed, or in case there are new readers who didn't weigh in the last time!
The question is a most important one: how do you eat a cupcake?
I can't wait to hear your responses. Oh, and to make it slightly more fun, I'm going to choose one commenter at random and send them a copy of Cupcakes: More Than 50 Fun Recipes for Creative Cakes! This is an adorable book wherein you'll find recipes and decorating tutorials such as:
Awesome! So, once again, to enter to win the book, just leave a comment saying how YOU eat a cupcake! I'll close the poll and choose a winner one week from today, on December 23rd at 5pm PST.


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Sometimes you think you know what's going on in a story... and then the rug is pulled out from under you. You think you know that the Mandarin is the big bad, or that Ned Stark is the big hero, of the story. And then — everything changes. What's the best, or worst, fake-out a story has ever pulled off?
Please include a picture or clip (or book cover) for the fake-out in question. And let us know a title, and whether this is the best or worst. Thanks!


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With near unanimous frustration and outrage, dozens of speakers told regulators from the Environmental Protection Division Tuesday night that the state's plans to punish Ogeechee River polluter King America Finishing fall short of both improving the river's quality and forcing the company to make amends for wrongdoing.
"Your job is to protect the environment, yet you have repeatedly allowed a corporation from another state with no allegiance to Georgia or its people to come into the area and recklessly and criminally destroy a once pristine body of water," said Connie Hayes, of Brooklet.
"You need to change your name to EDD, Environmental Destruction Division," said Hubert Sapp, who's lived on the river for 70 years.
About 150 people attended the public hearing at Effingham High School Tuesday night, nearly two years after a major fish kill changed life along the river.
In May 2011 more than 38,000 dead fish were found in a 70-mile stretch of the Ogeechee river beginning just a few feet below the discharge pipe for King America Finishing.
In the aftermath of the fish kill investigators found the Screven county textile finishing company had been operating an unauthorized discharge from a fire retardant line for five years.
The company agreed to fund $1 million worth of projects on the river, but that consent order was invalidated last summer for lack of public participation before it could be implemented. The new consent order was the intended focus of Tuesday's public hearing. It retains few of the elements of the first version. Instead it specifies:
• Third-party monitoring of the facility's discharge for a duration of 18 months at a cost of $75,000.
• Improvements to the city of Millen wastewater treatment plant to be completed in 12 months at a cost of $158,609. The facility discharges to the Ogeechee River.
• The Ogeechee River Research Proposal involves Georgia Southern University in establishing a nature center to study the ecology of the Ogeechee River. This must be completed in 36 months at a cost of $766,391.
At Tuesday's hearing, the city manager of Millen and a consulting engineer for the city spoke in favor of upgrades for its wastewater treatment system. Others, however, noted that its improvement didn't seem like an adequate punishment for King America Finishing. Emily Markesteyn, executive director of the Ogeechee Riverkeeper, noted that Millen is 19 miles upriver from the plant's discharge pipe.
"In May 2011 KAF caused one of the largest fish kills in Georgia history," Markesteyn said. "The environmental and economic harm from this fish kill has been enormous. KAF's actions are an egregious assault on our natural resources and the people who utilize those resources for fishing and recreating. Polluter responses, accountability, punishment and remediation should not be taken lightly."
Noting that the consent order would be laughable if it weren't so tragic, Rita Elliott said "the EPD does protect. It protects culprits, not the environment."
EPD officials Jim Ussery and Bruce Foisy conducted the hearing, taking notes and keeping speakers to their time limit. In keeping with the hearing's guidelines, they did not respond to questions posed to them by the speakers.
Ben Anderson lives on the river and has been devastated by the fish kill and its aftermath. His voice cracking, Anderson said that although 60 other lawsuits had been settled with King America Finishing, he wasn't settling. "I want my river back," he said.
In a related Ogeechee River development, the Ogeechee Riverkeeper on Tuesday filed its response in a case in which it is seeking to have a judge force the Environmental Protection Division director to shut down unpermitted discharge from King America Finishing.
Spalding County Superior Court Judge Chris Edwards requested the brief last week to clarify the Riverkeeper's position that Georgia law requires EPD director Jud Turner to act in this manner.
In the nine-page filing, attorneys for the Riverkeeper summarize that state law and the evidence produced at the hearing establish the following:
"1. It is illegal under the (Clean Water Act) to discharge pollution without a permit.
2. The Director is obligated to enforce that rule.
3. The Director is empowered to revoke (King America Finishing's) ability to operate.
4. KAF is discharging without a permit.
5. The Director has done nothing to cause a cessation of this illegal discharge."
They conclude that it's the duty of the EPD director to shut down an unpermitted discharge and the court should force him to do so.
Attorneys for the EPD have until early next week to respond to the brief.


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The main trade group representing independent-contractor broker-dealers will soon go public with its concerns about a Financial Industry Regulatory Authority Inc. proposal to require brokers to disclose recruiting incentives.
Although the Financial Services Institute Inc. has yet to file an official comment letter on the proposal, the group has identified three main areas of concern, said David T. Bellaire, the organization's general counsel.
The rule, which was proposed Jan. 3, would require registered representatives to disclose details of their enhanced-compensation arrangements to any customers that they solicit for a period of one year after changing firms.
Enhanced compensation � which includes signing bonuses, upfront or back-end bonuses, loans, accelerated payouts, transition assistance and similar arrangements � in an amount less than $50,000 wouldn't have to be disclosed.
In the comment letter it plans to file, the FSI will argue that the $50,000 threshold is �arbitrary,� Mr. Bellaire said last Tuesday at the FSI's annual meeting.
The proposal also fails to adequately distinguish between bonus compensation and compensation that is more �transitional� in nature, such as automated customer account transfer fees, he said.
Finally, the Finra proposal also overlooks other forms of compensation that present similar conflicts, such as retention bonuses, Mr. Bellaire said.
The comment period for the proposed rule change, which is known as RN 13-02, ends March 5.
email@example.com Twitter: @FredPGabriel


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Replacement Band, 1/2"
Replacement Band, 1/2"
JBL's unique latex formulation and dip manufacturing process delivers radical modulus strength. The power curve increases as bands are stretched for optimum performance. Special anti-oxidants help protect against harmful U.V. rays, prolonging sling life. Wishbones are 302 stainless wires that provide superior strength and durability, 1/2" diameter.
Fits 24" or 30" guns.
Available sizes: 14" or 18"


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- 21 & over
- Two drink minimum
OCEAN PARK SOUND SYSTEM and Dennis Jones
Purchase Tickets
Show Details
- Ticket Price: $10.00
21 & over
Two drink minimum
Rockin' Blues Guitarist. Check out what people are saying, then come see for yourself.
"He's the rare newcomer to recording who displays mastery over his musical expression without resorting to bombast, flash, fury or histronics. Jones possesses a confident, smoky midrange voice and shows a deft touch on both acoustic and electric guitar." M.E. Travaglini, Blues Revue
"From the opening horn blasts of the first cut "Brand New Day", Jones revels in a passionate and fresh approach to the blues that carries through this entire CD. He brandishes his guitar with flair, his vocals are creative and self-assured while his songwriting has taken a big step forward. This is clearly an evolved and self-realized Dennis Jones. Each of the 11 original songs here display an inner confidence that he believes in himself and for the first time has translated that to a recording," Michael Kinsman, President, Blues Lovers United of San Diego
"Dennis Jones is a maverick blazing blues trails with great songs and blistering guitar."
Zac Harmon
"Dennis Jones is a helluva guitar player, vocalist, songwriter and great entertainer. And you can't beat him as a human being."
Guitar Shorty


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Worst to First Jerseys: The Winnipeg Jets
This installment of the Worst to First Jerseys features the Winnipeg Jets, and part of this series is hosting posts on a blog of the team that's being featured. This post was originally featured on the blog Jets Nation, which can be found by clicking here. And much thanks to Jets Nation for letting me guest-post.
The big question for the Jets is which jerseys should be included? Did I ignore the jerseys of the Jets incarnation that moved to Phoenix to become the Coyotes? Or, do I include the jerseys of the Atlanta Thrashers, the same organization that now resides in Winnipeg? Or, do I decide to get really lazy, ignore both and make this the easiest post to write ever, with only their current jersey? Or do I throw everything into the mix since I'll never get the chance to tear apart some awful Thrashers jerseys? Sure, why not.
Here's how this works: I'll count down, from worst to first, all the jerseys the Jets have ever worn. Homes and aways will be lumped into the same category (so, more of a jersey "era") and I won't worry about small changes (like slightly changed positions of piping for example). Third jerseys will stand on their own. And I'm focusing on the jerseys only, not the entire uniform. The jersey images are compliments of the fine people over at nhluniforms.com. For the Jets (and Thashers combined), there's 6 different jerseys/eras. And we'll start with the worst one:
6. 2008-2011 Third Jersey (Thrashers)
Winnipeg fans, be glad that the Jets' ownership had the good sense to ditch the Thrashers name and brand when they brought the team up from Georgia. Otherwise, you could be watching your team playing in these jerseys. That would be a sad way to being a new era of hockey in Winnipeg. Very sad. Sadder than this kitten.
The hardest thing in ranking the Thashers' jerseys on this list is which should be the worst. Seriously, these jerseys are something awful. I'm all for trying out new things, but there's more gaffes here then the entire a group of Republican nomination candidates, amirite? Yeah I know, that was months ago now, but it was low-hanging fruit.
First off, their actual logo is nowhere on the jersey. They have some modified alternative logo as shoulder patches, but that's it. Granted, with a third jersey you can play around a little bit perhaps, but the thing that makes hockey jerseys great and unique compared to all the other major sports is the dominant placement of the logo. Football? Nope. Basketball? Nope. Baseball? Nope. None of them even have the entire logo on there.
And that's my major complaint about these jerseys. They were designed to be non-hockey jerseys, meant to identify hockey with other sports that a non-hockey market like Atlanta likes better. Marketing 101: Don't try to be something you're not. Put your best foot forward and believe in what you have to sell. If the market is a good fit, whatever you're selling will sell.
Other points, quickly, so I don't waste too much time on this jersey: Emphasizing the first "R" in "Thrashers" on the jersey makes it look like Trashers. The oddly-shaped white blotches on the sleeves, meant to follow the form of the Edge jerseys, make no sense and follow the contours of the jersey materials for no reason other than that they're there. The fonts on the jerseys for the nameplate and numbers are oddly constructed, with the 3 in the example above looking like it's missing its middle arm. And for a font used on a hockey jersey, it's (again) very non-hockey. Although I do appreciate them trying to use a more interesting font on their jerseys, this one is a complete miss.
What I do like is that they tried using a more unique colour on their jersey: a maroon/burgundy colour, which is unique among the NHL teams. The rest of the piping on the jersey is okay, but again, things just stop and start seemingly in the middle of nowhere except to follow the contours of the jersey, which aren't really noticeable anyway unless you're looking up close.
This jersey deserves a double facepalm. Can me move on now?
Jersey Recommendation: How about #21 Eager. He was with the team for half a season, which is more than this jersey deserved. Plus, the guy's a tool, and so is this jersey.
5. 1999-2003 Home and Away Jerseys (Thrashers)
Okay, it doesn't get much better here. Again, from the bad font selection to the weird piping on the sleeves, this jersey is a bit of a mess. But, at least it actually has the team logo on it.
Well, at least the home white jersey does. The road darks have some Batman-esque alternate logo on it. Or is it Zurg-esque? Oh, sorry, it's a flying bird? Yeeeaaaahhhhh, sure it is.
But, this isn't about the logo, it's about the jerseys. As mentioned earlier, they're still using the badly constructed non-hockey font on these jerseys, but they're made especially bad by outlining them in yellow. What that does is make the letters and numbers less defined because there's not enough contrast between the yellow and white. The letters/numbers on the white jersey look significantly smaller than the ones on the dark blue jerseys, even though they're exactly the same size, because the eye bleeds the yellow and white together, making it harder to read than necessary.
I'm guessing the pointy design on the sleeves are meant to mimic the wings of a bird or something? Cool, except bird wings don't look like that. If they did, brid wings would be a vicious weapon and criminalized in 30 states. Panes of glass tremble at the thought of birds flying into them. Even the Angry Birds don't have wings this fierce…and they DESTROY ENTIRE BUILDINGS! It's lazy design and could have been so much better. The best use of wings in a sports jersey goes to the Oregon Ducks. Take notes Anaheim.
I've never been a fan of patterned piping along the bottom of the jersey, and this jersey doesn't do anything to alleviate that, especially since they put it again on the collar. Simple stripes are completely sufficient. In design, simplicity should always take precedence over needless complexity. And that's my core beef (not to be mistaken for corned beef) with this jersey: it's overly complex, over-designed and just has too much stuff going on. It's a mess.
Jersey Recommendation: #27 Stefan. The first ever draft pick made by the Thrashers turned out to be a bust. Like these jerseys. Get it in the road blues, just to be extra awful.
4. 2003-06 Third Jerseys, 2006-11 Home and Away Jerseys (Thrashers)
The biggest redeeming value of these jerseys is the blue home jerseys, which is pulled from the very small blue highlight above the bird on their logo. What makes it great is the same (and only) positive from the 6th ranked jerseys on this list. It was (at the time) unique among the league and actually works really well on a jersey, as the Penguins have subsequently proven. The baby blue colour also looks great on a sheet of white ice and is basically the only innovation that the Thrashers tried on their jerseys that worked.
Speaking of innovations that worked, here's one that didn't: asymmetry. For the life of me, I don't understand why they decided to have a dark blue band run down only the left sleeve, with "Atlanta" running down it. I can see how it's an interesting departure from almost every single sports jersey ever created, but there are logistical aspects to how jerseys are made. I wonder how many referees asked the players to turn around to see which number they were when calling penalties. Or how angry the manufacturers were, as it basically creates more work for them to create two distinct sleeves for every jersey instead of just two the same.
And it throws the whole jersey off-kilter (as asymmterical things tend to do), giving more visual weight to one side of the jersey, with nothing to counter-balance it. Asymmetry can work great in many aspects of design, but here, it's clunky and slapped together without much thought.
Atlanta just could never get their sleeves right. From the asymmetrical home blues to the oddly pointed additions to the road whites, each jersey was a failure on the sleeves. The pointed white pattern on the road whites, like their third jerseys in 6th place, just seems to come and go out of nowhere, for no particular reason. This time, it doesn't even follow the contours of the jersey materials.
But at least these jerseys toned down the over-complexity of their other jerseys, with the patterns/stripes made simpler or removed altogether (except for the pattern on the road whites' collar). And I like the inclusion of the laces on the collar of the home blues. It still uses the same strange font, with the yellow outlined text, but this is pretty easily the best jersey that Atlanta came up with. And it's still worse than every single Jets jersey ever worn.
Jersey Recommendation: #17 Kovalchuk. Why not? He's a good player and was the face of Atlanta for a long time. Despite the asymmetry, get it in the home blues.
3. 1979-90 Home and Away Jerseys
Finally, we're getting into actual Jets jerseys! And after going through all the Thrashers' jerseys, these are the model of classic hockey jersey aesthetics. Like the majority of hockey jerseys (especially at the time these were worn), they're either blue or red. The lines are simple and bold. The logo is prominently displayed and, because of the simplicity of the jersey, is the obvious focal-point of the jersey. And it's the worst jersey a team named the Winnipeg Jets has ever worn.
That's a harsh statement, but consider it more a positive indication of the approach that the Jets have taken to jersey design throughout their existence than calling-out one specific jersey. But, what makes this jersey drop to the bottom, compared to the Jets' other jerseys, is that it looks dated. And the main reason it looks dated is because of the piping/striping on the jersey. The simple, straight red and blue lines (or red and white on the blue jerseys) are an aesthetic born from the late '70s and '80s, and the solid two-stripe is not something you regularly see in hockey at all. The North Stars did it for a while, but very few others. Other teams either have one solid stripe (like the Red Wings, for example), or the 3+ stripes (like the Bruins, for example). I'm not against that aesthetic, but there's no question it dates the jersey.
The solid band of striping, from cuff to cuff and over the shoulders, is also a somewhat strange look, not regularly used either. Only Colorado, Philadelphia and, well, the Jets use that style today, and in all those cases, it's not a solid line but has some curves to it. The only other jerseys to have had this particular feature that I could find is the Maple Leafs from 1970 to 1992, and the NHL itself, in various All-Star jerseys. It only helps make the jersey look more dated yet.
But otherwise, there's little to complain about. The jerseys are solid and simple. The blue is a perfect shade of blue (not too dark to almost be considered black, which I'll talk more about later). The red works as an accent and the font/type are your basic hockey standards. Like the Jets at that time, and unlike Lady Gaga, it was nothing flashy but it got the job done.
Jersey Recommendation: #10 Hawerchuk. Was there any doubt? The undisputed leader of the Jets during this time. Get it in the home whites, a classic symbol of the playoff whiteouts in Winnipeg.
2. 2011-present Home and Away Jerseys
The Jets' current jerseys are decidedly less-dated than the previous jerseys, but if after only one year of being in existence they already looked dated, this wouldn't be the second best jersey the Jets have ever worn. But this jersey isn't without its issues, one of which I've alluded to already.
The Jets are by no means the only culprits, but when the blue of a jersey is so dark that it borders on being black, commonly called "midnight blue", it's just too dark. When you're outside after dark, and you look up at the sky, would you say that the sky is black? Probably. But it's not, it's actually a very dark blue, but it's hard to differentiate between a very dark midnight blue and black sometimes. And these home jerseys are like that.
It bugs me because if you're going to have a blue jersey, just have a blue jersey – not an almost black jersey. The other Jets' jerseys are almost the perfect blue – one that's dark but still obviously a blue colour.
So, that begs the question, what do I have against black (or almost-black) jerseys? Hockey is a sport that's played on a blank canvas – a clean sheet of white ice – and putting splashes of colour onto that canvas makes for a more interesting and absorbing game to watch. A road white jersey versus a home black jersey is just not taking advantage of one of the opportunities that playing the sport of hockey gives you. Take notes Los Angeles.
Aside from that, these are some solid looking jerseys. Like the preceding jerseys, it's nothing incredibly flashy with a well-executed traditional hockey jersey aesthetic. But it's also got some interesting contemporary elements to it. The piping along the bottom of the jersey follows the contour of the jersey line rather than just being a straight line. In this case, it works really well. The two sets of striping on the sleeves too is a slightly departure from standard hockey design aesthetics, but it works well in this case. I'm not convinced it works as well on the road white, since it's crossing over the dark blue band on the sleeves, but that's a small complaint.
Which leads to the fact that there's some legacy elements to this jersey. The solid band of colour running from cuff to cuff on the road whites is, to me, an obvious homage to the original Jets jersey that I've already discussed. Even using the two solid stripes of colour at the bottom of the jersey, but adding in a very narrow third stripe right above it, harkens back to the original Jets jersey as well. It's subtle elements that increase the appeal of this jersey.
Using two tones of blue as the dominant colour scheme and leaving the logo (and alternative logo shoulder patches) as the only red on the jersey is great as well. It keeps the logo as having the most visual draw to the entire jersey, as it should be. And, a new font has been used, and it's something much better than the font the Thrashers used. It's, overall, a solid jersey.
Jersey Recommendation: I think you should get a #27 Oduya. "Oh, do 'ya?" Well, if you want. I just wanted to make that joke, because I bet Oduya's never heard that one before at all. If not Oduya, how about the first captain of the new Winnipeg Jets: #16 Ladd, in the road whites.
1. 1990-96 Home and Away Jerseys
If anyone with no previous hockey knowledge were to ask me what a typically standard hockey jersey looks like, I would probably pull up this jersey. It's just so incredibly solid and again, nothing flashy and gets the job done. It is the quintessential hockey jersey.
That's not to say it's the best hockey jersey ever. Sorry Jets fans, but I wouldn't put it close to the best ever. Those are the jerseys that push the envelope successfully, or have some amount of flash, or uniqueness, or element that's specific to the team wearing it. And these Jets jerseys don't really have anything like that.
Another way of saying it is that there's absolutely nothing to complain about with these jerseys, but there's nothing really to get incredibly excited about. It sounds kind of like a back-handed compliment, but it's not intended that way. It's a solid jersey that should be worn with pride. The blue is, again, a perfect shade of blue and would never be confused with black. The piping on both the sleeves and the bottom of the jersey is consistent and solid, with a less-dated look that the original jerseys – something that's more timeless. The fonts and type are given the standard hockey treatment. The amount of red compliments the amount of blue, working perfectly as an accent colour. The logo is allowed the room to breathe and be the most prominent element on the jersey. It's just a solid jersey.
The saddest thing about this jersey is that, as excellent and solid as it is, for the season after this jersey was retired, it got turned into these monstrosities. The Jets' legacy to the world of NHL jerseys is a no-nonsense style that does the job right. That's something to be proud of.
Jersey Recommendation: #13 Selanne. No question, the best player to ever wear this specific jersey. 76 goals in his rookie season. Unbelievable.
Agree? Disagree? Which Jets jersey do you own? Let us know in the comments below.
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Our researchers are currently in need of adult and pediatric study participants to help us pursue better treatments and cures.
With a focus on personalized medicine, our researchers are looking at environment-gene interaction and are making strides in predicting, preventing, treating and tracking many diseases.
We have both clinical core laboratories and research core laboratories. Our "core" laboratories can assist investigators in their research by providing specialized technology.
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Our research focus is on finding innovative treatments and making scientific discoveries related to respiratory and immune disease.
Our Advanced Diagnostic Laboratories is a high-complexity, CLIA-certified laboratory with more than 50 years' experience developing assays and performing preclinical and clinical testing.
National Jewish Health supports academic and research activities across the campus and other organizations, including the University of Colorado Denver.
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Speaking at SMX Toronto
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
I'll be on a panel at SMX Toronto this Friday: Search and Social – Insight and Inspiration. The panel will be moderated by Alexa Clark and feature a cross-section of smart folks – Leona Hobbs from Social Media Group, Jeff Quipp of Search Engine People and Ilya Grigorik from Postrank.
I've always been passionate about the intersection of search and social and how the two can intersect to provide a rich, contextual experience for users. With the quality of people on the panel it's sure to be a lively and informative discussion.
If you plan on attending, make sure to say hello!


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Please help!
Bit of a random question and despite my callsign I don't know the answer, hence asking!
We are using a turnstile antenna designed for weather satellites for the FUNcube satellite. Here it is
Can we simply shorten the top dipoles to make it resonant for the 2m band? Obviously there is a relationship between the upper and lower elements both in length and distance apart but I wasn't sure how critical it is. Would it make enough of a difference for receiving FUNcube satellite signals to justify taking it down to modify it?
Also, once tuned, if it can be would it then be any use for transmitting? This would then allow us to use the 2m band for local contacts without the need for a separate antenna. That said would it perform too poorly compared to say a dual band colinear?
Hope that all makes some sense.


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High-speed rail is a big part of the answer
During the Great Depression, businesses and governments agreed that transportation modernization was essential to restoring prosperity. The 1930s saw the emergence of the freeway (the first one opening in Los Angeles in 1940) and the airport as important modes of transportation. Together with the National Interstate and Defense Highways Act of 1956, these Depression Era investments helped produce the long postwar economic boom and brought widespread prosperity to the United States.
As we face another dire economic crisis, we have a similar need for modernization and economic recovery. When gas prices soared in 2008, it helped push the unstable economy over the edge. Even in the depths of the worst recession in 60 years, gas prices remain at 2006 levels. Analysts such as those at Deutsche Bank predict that oil prices will rise again once job growth returns, threatening to strangle a recovery in its infancy.
High-speed rail will not only stimulate the economy during construction, but it will reduce our dependence on foreign oil, helping our economy to avoid future oil price shocks. It will also tie together the economies of mid-sized urban areas to the economies of large metropolitan cities through increased accessibility.
ONE MINUTE DEBATE: Should America's illegal immigrants be offered legal status?
High-speed rail will do for us what the Interstate did. It will increase access and stimulate economic activity at a transformative level. All over the world, industrialized countries have already invested heavily in high-speed rail and are continuing to expand existing networks to modernize their transportation systems. There is little debate around the world about the benefits of high-speed rail. It is time we step up to assure the environmental and economic prosperity of our future generations in these United States.
– Robert Cruickshank, chairman; and Daniel Krause, cofounder, Californians For High Speed Rail
Get smarter about mobility and make users pay
Across the country, needed infrastructure projects are bogged down by politics and a system that prioritizes pork over mobility. But we need a 21st-century transportation system and here are several ways to get there:
•Rethink the federal role in transportation to focus federal gas-tax money on highway projects that deliver the largest benefits to mobility and congestion relief. Taxpayers have lost confidence in transportation spending because they've seen too many "Bridges to Nowhere" built while their own commutes get longer.
•Tap private capital and public-private partnerships to finance highway improvements. President Obama has smartly promoted a National Infrastructure Bank. If it is set up to leverage private investments in megaprojects that will deliver the highest benefit-cost ratios, America's mobility will be greatly enhanced.
•Make greater use of congestion pricing, high-occupancy toll lanes, toll roads, and truck-only lanes that charge drivers and truckers the full cost of the transportation services they use.
•Reduce waste. Reason Foundation's Annual Highway Report finds states spend millions on bureaucratic costs, money that never reaches roads. California spends $93,464 in administrative costs per mile of state road.
•Ignore gimmicks like high-speed rail. America's so-called high-speed trains won't be high-speed at all compared with those in Asia and Europe and won't reduce our "dependence" on cars. Trains will, however, require massive subsidies that worsen state and federal budget deficits.
Infrastructure for trains, planes, and cars should be self-supporting. The nation will be on a better path when major projects are guided by benefit-cost ratios and users pay the full costs for the services they consume.
– Robert Poole, director of transportation policy, Reason Foundation