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Urban Active says it cannot comment on a recent lawsuit, but it is attempting to resolve complaints filed with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Central Ohio, which last week issued the Lexington, KY-based company an "F" rating.
An amended version of the lawsuit was filed Tuesday in Franklin County (OH) Common Pleas Court. The complaint was originally filed last Wednesday on behalf of Ohio resident Amber Gascho. The amended version includes Ohio residents Ashley Buckenmeyer and Michael Hogan on behalf of themselves and all other similarly situated plaintiffs.
Gascho, Buckenmeyer and Hogan claim Global Fitness Holdings LLC, Lexington, KY, which does business as Urban Active, violated the Ohio Consumer Sales Practices Act and the Ohio deceptive trade practices act and breached a contract. The plaintiffs, represented by the law firm of Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP, Columbus, OH, are seeking an award of damages of more than $25,000. The lawsuit is seeking class-action status for all Ohio Urban Active members who purchased membership contracts from Nov. 1, 2007, to the present.
Specifically, Gascho, Buckenmeyer and Hogan allege that Urban Active:
- Misrepresented the terms and duration of its membership contracts, personal training contracts and other contracts for services.
- Misrepresented customers' cancellation rights.
- Failed to notify customers of their cancellation rights as required by law.
- Failed to provide customers with copies of contracts at the time of signing as required by law.
- Failed to honor notices of cancellation.
- Continued to charge customers after cancellation.
- Failed to inform customers of hidden $15 "maintenance fees," which increase the cost of its membership contracts.
- Failed to provide customers with personal training sessions as contracted for in their agreements.
Gascho claims that Urban Active told her that she could cancel her personal training contract for a $10 fee, but when she tried to cancel the contract, she was told the charge would be $250, according to the complaint. Buckenmeyer claims that an Urban Active personal trainer pressured her into signing a contract, but after she tried to cancel the contract four hours later, Urban Active refused to cancel the contract and continues to charge her bank card, according to the complaint.
Like Gascho and Buckenmeyer, Hogan claims he was not advised of his cancellation rights, nor was he provided with duplicate copies of a notice of cancellation form. Hogan claims that he tried to cancel his Urban Active contract in October 2010, yet his bank card was still being charged through last February, according to the complaint. Hogan was charged more than $100 in additional fees after he resent a notice of cancellation, fees that Hogan claims Urban Active has refused to refund.
John Gragg, general counsel for Urban Active, says the company does not comment on litigation, but he did tell Club Industry that the company "will vigorously defend our good name."
The lawsuit comes on the heels of a release from the BBB of Central Ohio, which says it has received more than 200 complaints from Ohio Urban Active members within the last year. Of those complaints, 78 of them were either unanswered or unresolved, as Urban Active did not respond to written requests for explanation, the BBB said.
"We're aware of the complaints that have been filed, and we're aware that people are frustrated and that it's taken a while to respond to concerns," Gragg tells Club Industry. "Our goal is to provide the best fitness experience, and we take any complaints very seriously."
Most of the complaints deal with billing issues. Specifically, members have complained that Urban Active continued to charge their bank accounts or credit cards after the members believed that their contracts had expired or had been canceled.
"The trends we're seeing in complaints against Urban Active tell us consumers need to read the fine print on the contract before they sign and keep a close eye on their bank statements to insure they're not getting billed more than they should," Kip Morse, president and CEO of the BBB Central Ohio, said in a statement.
The Lexington Herald-Leader reported last week that the BBB of Central and Eastern Kentucky also has given Urban Active an "F" rating. That chapter has processed 93 complaints against Urban Active over the past three years, with 62 of them resolved, the newspaper reported.
Gragg told media outlets last week that the complaints represent less than half of 1 percent of the company's overall membership base.
"We apologize to our customers who have experienced problems," Gragg says. "We're working diligently to resolve these issues by promoting more personnel to provide better customer service. We're also working with all of the Better Business Bureaus to resolve these issues as well."
Gragg adds that Urban Active had taken steps to resolve these issues before the BBB Central Ohio released its report.
"Every one of those cities that we have BBB issues, year in and year out, we're unanimously voted the top health chain of that market," Royce Pulliam, CEO of Urban Active, tells Club Industry. "We know we've got a few customer service issues that we've got to get under control, and we're going to put forth all our best efforts to make sure that we do so. We do have a few things to be better at, and we're going to be better at it."
Urban Active has 34 clubs in operation, primarily in Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee. The company also has expanded into Pittsburgh, Omaha, NE, and Charlotte, NC. Last year, Urban Active closed two of its clubs in Cincinnati and a club in Brentwood, TN.
Gragg confirmed that Urban Active will open two new clubs in July, one in the Buckhead section of Atlanta and the other in Dublin, OH. He adds that Urban Active also is considering seven to 10 other locations for development.


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Republican state Sen. Stan Bingham of Davidson County has introduced a bill in the North Carolina legislature that would allow the Bible (or any other sacred book) to be taught as an elective in our public schools. Twelve other lawmakers, including three Democrats, have signed on in support.
So, good idea or bad? That depends on how certain questions are answered.
The Bible is arguably the most influential book ever written. A well-rounded student needs to be aware of the stories in it because artists, writers, TV shows, songs and even comedians allude to it all the time.
Now the questions. First, what is the intent of the bill�s sponsors? Is it an attempt to put conservative Christianity into the public schools? No. Bingham is open to school systems offering courses on any sacred book if students request it and the system approves it.
What curriculum will be chosen? Who wrote it? Does it represent both sides of an issue? Does it address historical issues? Does it use a comparative approach? Will it look at the Bible critically? What if the curriculum ignores other relevant Bible passages (thus a slant or just plain ignorance of the whole Bible)?
Who in our North Carolina public school system is competent to select the curriculum? Can this person set aside personal religious beliefs and make such a decision?
From there, who will be allowed to teach this class? A local pastor? Who decides which pastor? Will there be a selection process that looks at credentials and teaching experience? Is a school teacher qualified to teach the class? Does the teacher have at least one course in Bible from an accredited school (not a Bible as Literature class), preferably courses in both Old and New Testament. Some background in history would be a plus as well
Can we be assured that a teacher will not insert his or her own beliefs, liberal or conservative, into the class? Will both sides of a thorny issue be discussed? Will the school system allow the discussion of such issues? Who decides the cutoff? What if the cutoffs consistently affect only one side of the spectrum?
Will the curriculum include selected passages or will the students be given a text to use in the class? If the latter, the King James Version is the most literary and beautiful but students need a modern translation study Bible. But, will it be an academic evangelical or academic liberal Bible? Which version? CEV, NIV, NRSV, NKJV�? Who gets to decide which version? Why did they choose this version?
From the student�s perspective the issue gets more complicated. Will they be allowed to bring their own version of the Bible (better for discussions)? If so, will it be allowed into the discussion or will the �approved� text only be used (thus ensuring a particular slant)?
What of particular belief systems? Liberal students differ from their classmates of more conservative persuasions. Does the teacher have the skills to foster such discussions (great teaching moments) or will they be stifled so that the class can stick with the curriculum (thus ensuring a slant again)? Will students allow other students to discuss such matters without suddenly making holy condemnations?
What answers are provided for test questions? Are questions open-ended thus allowing for freedom to interpret or are they the usual �objective� multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank (with the �correct� answer) questions (thus making the student answer only one way, ensuring a slant again)?
Assuming that these questions are answered responsibly, there are the parents. Will they allow their students to take the class? Will they use the class as a time to learn about and discuss the issues of the class? Can they be open-minded enough to handle issues they disagree with without calling the school and complaining?
If these questions (and others) are considered then this can be a great asset to the education of our students.
Tim Allen lives in Liberty. He has taught religion in community colleges and universities since 1993.

subset: commoncrawl


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| Keeping In Top Forme!
First broadcast
English themes
Japanese themes
Keeping In Top Forme! (Japanese: 飛べシェイミ!空の彼方へ!! Fly, Shaymin! Far into the Sky!!) is the 168th episode of the Diamond & Pearl series, and the 634th episode of the Pokémon anime. It first aired in Japan as a one-hour special on March 18, 2010, along with Pokémon Ranger: Heatran Rescue! and in the United States on August 14, 2010.
|Spoiler warning: this article may contain major plot or ending details.
On their way to the Sinnoh Grand Festival, Ash and Dawn are practicing for their upcoming battles and contest, while Brock is preparing a meal. Dawn starts off with having Piplup use Whirlpool. She then praises Piplup for its "greater than great" Whirlpool. Brock is kneeling by a river getting ready to clean a net full of berries when he sees a mysterious boat floating down the river. He then notices that a girl is fast asleep in the boat. He attempts to wake her while walking with the boat. That's when he realizes that it is headed straight for a huge waterfall. He starts yelling at her to try and wake her, but to no avail. He then wades into the water and heroically grabs the boat and blocks it from falling.
After the opening theme, the scene shows Brock a couple of feet before the waterfall when he notices that there is a rope in the boat. He calls out Happiny, who proceeds to toss the entire boat and Brock onto the shore. Ash and Dawn come running up asking if he's okay. He says that he's okay and directs their attention to Marley. As the camera scrolls up her motionless body, Dawn asks if she is real or not. Suddenly Marley opens her eyes and gets up. The first thing she asks is for the whereabouts of her basket which is still in the boat with her. She is thankful that the basket is unharmed and asks Brock why he's all wet. Brock seems confused by this question when Ash pipes in and semi-sarcastically says that she was about to go over a waterfall. Dawn then tells her that's why he is wet. Marley responds by verbally assuming that Brock's name is Brock. Dawn agitatedly responds that she should at least thank Brock for saving her, but Brock shrugs it off. Marley exits the boat and asks who Dawn and Ash are. Ash and Dawn are taken aback by her complacent attitude and quickly introduce themselves and their Pokémon. Brock asks Marley why she was sleeping in the boat, she tells them that she was hiding and had accidentally fallen asleep. She also explains that there was a group of "very bad people" after her. She then turns to Brock and asks him to protect her. She explains that she has to go to the other side of what seems to be Mt. Coronet. Ash and Dawn interject by saying that she can't just expect them to just say yes and bring her over the mountain, she tells them off by saying that she wasn't asking them which angers Ash.
While Brock is thinking, Dawn tells him that Marley will be fine by herself. Brock tells Dawn that if Marley is being chased and that the group is going that way anyway, that they can go together, an idea which Ash and Dawn seem almost sickened by. The scene switches to the four walking along a trail. Brock asks Marley where she will be heading after crossing over the Mountain. She says that she is headed to a very secret garden. Ash tries to get more information but Marley won't tell any more. Dawn asks Marley why all the bad people are after her and Marley sarcastically responds "It's because I'm an alien". Ash and Dawn are surprised by this and excitedly ask if she is kidding. She very calmly says "I'm kidding". Piplup's stomach starts to growl so Brock starts getting out Pokémon food. Marley stresses how she's in a hurry and is reassured by Brock that it won't take long. Marley is staring at Piplup and Pikachu happily eating when she suddenly announces that she is going for a walk. The three are very surprised by Marley's strange behavior.
The scene then switches to Marley opening her picnic basket and letting out an injured Shaymin. The Shaymin is dirty and doesn't eat Pokémon food when Marley tries to feed it. She insists on it eating but it just won't. The scene switches back to Ash commenting on how long Marley has been gone for, the group decide to find her. When they do they see her with the Shaymin. Ash instantly recognizes it but Dawn has to pull out the Pokédex to check it. Brock comments on how weak Shaymin looks and Marley says that it has been that way since the morning. Brock examines it and Shaymin coughs up gas. Brock informs Marley that Shaymin has been exposed to a poison of some kind. Brock then explains how Shaymin can use a move called Seed Flare Marley then recalls Shaymin inhaling a Seviper's Haze earlier that morning. Brock feeds Shaymin a Pecha Berry to rid it of the poison. Shaymin coughs smoke and then explodes in a huge plume of black smoke. When the smoke clears Shaymin looks 100% better. He then feeds it a Sitrus Berry to help regain strength. After eating, it jumps up and utters a cry of happiness. Marley comments on how Brock is almost like Nurse Joy. Ash tells Marley that Brock wants to be the world's best Pokémon breeder. Dawn asks Marley why she keeps Shaymin in a picnic basket and Marley says it's because the bad people are after Shaymin.
The camera then pans to Team Rocket hiding behind a tree. Jessie is annoyed that Marley had to get "tangled up with the twerps". Jessie makes a comment about the all-nighter that they had pulled and how they deserve to steal Shaymin. The scene melts into a flashback. Team Rocket is walking along the path when Meowth spots Shaymin waddling down the path. He exclaims about how rare it is and frightens it into running away. James then makes a comment on how Shaymin "ranks high as a really rare primo Pokémon". Team Rocket decides to chase it while yelling "Yoo-Hoo!". Shaymin runs up Marley's leg and hides on her shoulder. Jessie immediately sends out Yanmega and commands it to use Sonicboom, which propels Marley and Shaymin a couple of feet, away on the ground. Marley leans up enough to ask Shaymin if it's alright, then Jessie says that they've earned Shaymin. James makes a pun on the phrase "Finders keepers, losers weepers" by saying "its finders keepers and losers losers". Marley tells Team Rocket that Shaymin doesn't want to go with them when Meowth tells her that her ribbon is on too tight. She asks who they are which throws them into their newest Sinnoh Motto. During the motto, Marley and Shaymin slip away unseen which leaves Team Rocket shaking their heads in search for her. The next scene shows Marley trotting away with Shaymin while commenting on how boring Team Rocket is. This angers Jessie and prompts Team Rocket to give chase. Marley sends out her Arcanine and has it use Flamethrower on Team Rocket. This burns them up and creates a massive explosion which sends them blasting off once again. The flashback fades out and starts off with James saying "There isn't a blast-off big enough for Team Rocket!"
The scene goes to the gang walking on a trail. Ash is in awe of the story that Marley had apparently been telling them. She says that she had tried to say goodbye to Shaymin once before, which prompts another flashback. Its late evening by a lake. The sun is going down. Shaymin, Marley and her Arcanine are by the shore. Marley says that she knows Shaymin go on a flower bearing journey and if she remembers correctly, a Gracidea Flower Garden is just over the mountain. She also tells Shaymin to hurry or it will miss all the flowers. Shaymin walks a couple of steps and then turns its' neck so that they stare into each other's eyes. Shaymin eventually turns away and wanders off. The scene turns to the middle of the night. Marley is in her sleeping bag while narrating that she was having trouble falling asleep. She turns over in her bag and Shaymin walks right up to her and snuggles in her sleeping bag. It comes out looking elated for being back with Marley. She has a really confused look on her face for a second and then finally gives in. She lets Shaymin sleep in her bag and promises to accompany Shaymin to the Gracidea Flower Garden. While falling asleep she comments on how Shaymin is so warm and cozy.
It's the next day and Marley is still partially narrating. She's walking down a trail when Team Rocket burst out of the tree line yelling "Ta Da!". Marley shows her distaste for the three, and James replies that they've been searching all night to find Shaymin. Marley gets ready to send out Arcanine, but Jessie beats her to it by calling out Seviper. Seviper uses a Haze attack. James runs up and grabs Shaymin, who starts to suck all the smoke into it's' body. Meowth realizes what's happening and warns James about Seed Flare. Shaymin explodes with Seed Flare and flies into Marley's arms. She hops on Arcanine and rides away. She sees a boat and quickly jumps in, putting Shaymin in a nearby basket. While in the boat, she sees Team Rocket running into the forest but unable to locate her. Marley then lies down on the boat and falls asleep. The flashback ends and Marley has finished telling her story. Ash and Dawn reassure her that they'll protect her and Shaymin from harm. They come up to a tunnel and Marley announces that the Gracidea Garden is just beyond the tunnel. Team Rocket pops up from behind a rock and states that they're going to ambush the gang at the Flower Garden. After the commercial, the scene is back on the gang. Piplup, Pikachu, and Shaymin are all having a good time playing around while walking. Piplup and Pikachu trip on a sleeping Shroomish, who proceeds to use PoisonPowder on them. Shaymin sucks it all in with Seed Flare and then releases it, scaring off the Shroomish. Piplup and Pikachu are still poisoned, but Shaymin waddles over and uses Aromatherapy on both of them, healing them. Marley points out that they're almost at the end of the tunnel, and that there will be a huge Gracidea Flower Garden at the other end.
When the gang reaches the Garden, they're all in shock. All of the flowers have died, which means no transforming for Shaymin. Ash has the idea of combing the dead garden to look for just one that is in bloom. The rest comply and get to work. The search isn't going well. There isn't a flower in sight. All of a sudden, Brock looks up and sees a sprout still in bloom, only problem is that it's on a huge rock. With precision timing, Team Rocket bursts out in their giant Mecha Caterpie. The head of the mecha opens and brings out Team Rocket on a platform. They show their faces and Marley groans "Oh no, not them again". They say a couple words and then use Mecha Caterpie's String Shot. Ash commands Pikachu to use Thunderbolt and Dawn has Piplup use Bubblebeam against it. The attacks collide and explode in mid-air. Ash brings out Torterra and has it use Energy Ball. The Energy Ball knocks Team Rocket on the ground. Team Rocket's robot starts crawling towards the gang when Brock has the idea to have Dawn's Buneary use Ice Beam underneath Team Rocket, so that they have no traction. Now that Team Rocket is immobilized, Ash has Torterra use Rock Climb and Dawn has Piplup use Whirlpool. The attacks land dead center and send Team Rocket spinning away. Ash yells that they did it, but James lets out an evil laugh while Meowth engages stage 2 of the mecha. The back of the Caterpie pop open and Butter free mecha pops out, just like a butterfly. They begin charging a "Robo-Hyper Solarbeam." They shoot it at the ground, knocking Ash and friends off their feet. After the smoke clears, Marley looks for Shaymin, which she can't find. Brock points out to her that it is climbing the rock so it can get to the Gracidea and transform into Sky Forme. The scene cuts to another Thunderbolt/Bubblebeam combo that the Mecha Butterfree dodges with total ease. Team Rocket is feeling unstoppable and begins gloating. They decide to give Ash and friends a blast off of their own. They start charging another Solarbeam, when Marley cheers on Shaymin to reach the Gracidea. The pollen is floating from the flower to Shaymin, and it starts to transform. Once done, Shaymin jumps into Marley's arms for a quick hug then flies through the antennae of the mecha Butterfree, cutting them to shreds. They explode and break away. They begin a high speed sky chase, with Shaymin in the lead. Shaymin gets going so fast that Team Rocket are unable to keep up. They stop for a second and then get hit hard from underneath. Team Rocket uses "Robo-Hyper Gust" which knocks Shaymin off course. The last Gracidea blow away in the wind, Shaymin is falling, but recovers and uses Air Slash. This cuts Team Rockets mecha straight in two. Team Rocket blast off, but a worn out Shaymin falls straight into the patch of ice from Buneary. When Shaymin touches the ice, it transforms back into Land Forme. The gang are wondering what to do, when 2 more Shaymin appear. Magically, a Gracidea bud blooms right in front of them, so the Shaymin use it to transform. Once transformed, they take to the skies and fly in happy circles. Marley tells Shaymin that it's time for it to go on the Flower Bearing Journey. Shaymin is sad to leave Marley, but knows it has to or else it will transform by night fall. Marley says that she hopes to see Shaymin again. Then the Shaymin fly away, but not without revealing its voice to thank Marley.
Major events
Pokémon debuts
TV episode debuts
- Pikachu (Ash's)
- Meowth (Team Rocket)
- Piplup (Dawn's)
- Wobbuffet (Jessie's)
- Torterra (Ash's)
- Gible (Ash's)
- Buneary (Dawn's)
- Happiny (Brock's)
- Seviper (Jessie's)
- Yanmega (Jessie's; flashback)
- Arcanine (Marley's; flashback)
- Shaymin (three)
- Shroomish (wild)
- Professor Oak's Pokémon lecture: Bronzong
- Music from Celebi: Voice of the Forest, Gotta Dance, Jirachi Wish Maker, Lucario and the Mystery of Mew, and Giratina and the Sky Warrior is played during this episode.
- The title is a reference to the phrase 'top form'.
- Due to a mishap where the Japanese title for the next episode was announced in dub schedules prior to this episode's dub title being revealed, some people were initially and mistakenly led to believe that this episode was being skipped in the dub.
Dub edits
|This episode article is part of Project Anime, a Bulbapedia project that covers all aspects of the Pokémon anime.


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Ryanair (FR) has condemned the "European Commission's bias against low fares airlines" and called for an end to its travel policy prohibiting to book flights on LCCs.
Ryanair 737-800. By Rob Finlayson
Ryanair (FR) has condemned the "European Commission's bias against low fares airlines" and called for an end to its travel policy prohibiting to book flights on LCCs.
At a press conference in Brussels Thursday, FR released copies of emails received from the European Commission's (EC) travel agency, Amex, stating it is not allowed to book low-cost flights or reimburse travel expenses to and from Brussels Charleroi airport, where FR has a large base. Ryanair also released a letter from the EC's director for administration and payment, which said it is "true that the terms of this contract do prevent Amex from booking tickets with 'low-cost' airlines."
The Amex emails and the EC's letters "unequivocally admit that the EU Commission "prevents" its travel agency from making bookings on low-fare airlines, which would save the hard-pressed EU taxpayer millions of euros each year," FR CEO Michael O'Leary said. "This prohibition is a blatant subsidy to EU flag carriers and discriminates yet again against Europe's low fares airlines which have now overtaken Europe's flag carriers in terms of passenger popularity."
Ryanair filed a formal complaint with the European Court of Auditors earlier this month, asking it to assess "the legality, regularity and financial soundness" of the travel policy.
Europe's largest LCC described the EC's travel policy as the latest example of its bias against low-fare airlines in general, and Ryanair in particular, and criticized the EC's "rubber stamping" of mergers between flag carriers while blocking a merger between Ryanair and Aer Lingus in 2006.
The EC in past years cleared the merger between Air France and KLM, Lufthansa's acquisition of Austrian Airlines, Swiss, Brussels Airlines and British Midlands International, and the merger of British Airways and Iberia.


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111 East Maple ? P.O. Box 1019 ? Independence, Missouri 64051 - 0519
www.independencemo.org ? 816-325-7000
For More Information, Contact
the City Manager's Office at
or call 816-325-7170.
Public Safety Advisory
(INDEPENDENCE, Mo.) Monday, February 3, 2014 – The National Weather Service is expecting a winter storm to arrive in the Independence area Tuesday morning with high accumulations of snow, very cold temperatures, and strong winds. The City of Independence is issuing a Public Safety Advisory to all residents.
Citizens are urged to limit travel as much as possible. During heavy snowfall, road crews will be challenged to keep streets plowed for safe travel.
If at all possible, do not park vehicles on the street. Snow plows will be working steadily to keep the streets cleared for emergency vehicles. If parking on the street is unavoidable, vehicles should be parked along the north side of east-west streets or along the west side of north-south streets.
In some locations, cars parked along the street will not allow snow plows access into the neighborhood and street crews will have to bypass that area and go to the next.
Independence Police anticipate an increase in motor vehicle accidents due to hazardous driving conditions. If you are involved in an accident, call (816) 325-7300 to report it. If there are no injuries and the vehicles are driveable, exchange name and insurance information and walk the report in to the police station at a later time. If there are injuries, or if the accident is blocking the road, call police immediately and wait for emergency personnel to respond.
A high accumulation of snow and drifting of snow will likely cover neighborhood fire hydrants, obscuring them from fire crews. Never park next to any fire hydrant, and if possible, shovel snow away from hydrants so it can be quickly located by emergency personnel in case of fire.


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Water: H2O=Life Educator's Guide main content.
By: Center for Biodiversity and Conservation, AMNH Education
The Water: H2O = Life exhibition is designed to engage all learning styles through hands-on and digital interactives, videos, wall panels, models, specimens, and live animals. This guide divides the exhibition into eight numbered areas. Each area is supported by an overview, highlights to explore, and guiding questions. For more information and to download the guide,visit Water: H2O = Life.


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Home › Scene › Photo Finish ›
Photo Finish
THE PARTY An intimate signing and discussion for authors Carol Beckwith and Angela Fisher's book African Passion: Painted Bodies & Beyond. THE VENUE The Minotti showroom, which doubled as an art gallery featuring dramatic, large-scale photography curated by the Annenberg Space for Photography specifically for the exhibit. THE PLAYERS Mary Ta, president of Minotti Los Angeles, artist Mattia Biagi, Jacqueline Bisset and others who came to hear about the women's travels and work in Africa. Photos by Leslie Rockitter


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85+% WW hydration. Normal?
Hey guys,
My whole wheat doughs are very firm, even at high hydration, and I feel like I'm probably doing something wrong.
A simple loaf recipe will look something like:
500g KA whole wheat
350g water
50g skim milk
25-30g olive oil
Even at 85% the dough is quite firm and even french kneading is difficult. I feel like I could easily french knead a dough of this type at 90% or more, in fact, I'm considering expeimenting with a 100% WW bread this weekend. I know most people with AP or bread flour would consider even 75% to be slack. Is this common for WW? Should I autolyse overnight or make a preferment to loosen up the wheat?
Side note: I'm just now cultivating my first sourdough starter, so maybe that will help things once it's ready.


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Goedert, Chen still shining for Indians
Top prospect Lindor has Cleveland excited for future at short
By Zack Cox / Special to MLB.com | October 4, 2012 5:41 PM
In many ways, this season was the reverse of the 2011 campaign for the Indians organization. Two-time International League champion Columbus Clippers (75-69) failed to qualify for the playoffs for the first time since 2009. Carolina (63-77) -- the Tribe's Class A Advanced affiliate -- also missed the postseason, a year after a trip to the Carolina League Championship Series in its final season in Kinston.
On the other end of the spectrum, Class A Lake County, which finished dead last in the Midwest League in 2011, finished three games over .500 before bowing out in the semifinals. Cleveland's best showing came at Double-A, however, where Akron (82-59) jumped from fourth in the Eastern League's Western Division to first en route to the organization's only championship.
Though club records fluctuated, many of last year's top performers continued to put up strong numbers. Eight of last year's All-Star selections made the list again, either as winners or in an honorable mention capacity.
Indians Organization All-Stars
Catcher -- Alex Monsalve, Lake County (73 games), Carolina (34 games): In an Indians system lean on catching talent, Monsalve stands out. The fourth-year pro split time between Lake County and Carolina in 2012, batting .256 with eight homers and 42 RBIs. The Indians' No. 9 prospect, Monsalve was one of eight Cleveland Minor Leaguers selected to play in the Arizona Fall League.
"Monsalve is extremely physical," said Ross Atkins, the Indians' vice president of player development. "[He's] the strongest individual in our organization with a lot of raw tools, and he's developing his leadership, game-calling and bat-to-ball. He's made strides in all areas and we're very optimistic and remain excited about his potential."
First base -- Chun-Hsiu Chen, Akron (108 games): An Organization All-Star each of the last two seasons behind the plate, Chen makes the list again after moving to first base. The 23-year-old saw a decline in his power numbers (five homers, 43 RBIs) but improved his average (.308) and on-base percentage (.394) by more than 40 points and scored a career-high 62 runs for the Aeros.
The Eastern League midseason All-Star took the defensive transition in stride, committing only three errors in 62 games.
Honorable mention: Jesus Aguilar
Second base -- Jose Ramirez, Mahoning Valley (three games), Lake County (67 games): After leading all Indians Minor Leaguers with a .325 average in the Rookie-level Arizona League in 2011, Ramirez improved in nearly every category in his second pro campaign. The Lake County leadoff man put together a .345/.404/.465 line and would have led the organization in average for the second straight year had he enough at-bats to qualify.
"He has unbelievable competitiveness," Atkins said. "[He has a] chance to be an above-average defender that makes all the plays, with exceptional bat-to-ball and above-average run skills. He's a four-tool player that has made a ton of progress at an early stage in his career."
The 20-year-old was at his best down the stretch. After finishing the regular season on a nine-game hitting streak (with nine RBIs and nine runs scored in that span), Ramirez went on to hit in all five playoff games. His seven postseason RBIs tied for third in the Midwest League, even though the Captains were eliminated in the semifinals.
Honorable mention: Cord Phelps
Third base -- Jared Goedert, Akron (35 games), Columbus (86 games): A mainstay at the hot corner, Goedert makes this list for the third consecutive season. The Kansas State product teed off on Double-A pitching to begin the season, hitting .395 with a 1.089 OPS in 35 games,] and continued to produce after a promotion to Columbus.
After injuries caused a dip in production in 2011, Goedert ranked second among Cleveland farmhands in both homers (19) and RBIs (77) this season. And his .311 batting average was his best mark since 2007.
The 27-year-old has bounced between Akron and Columbus the last three seasons, but he's led the system in homers and RBIs during that span.
Shortstop -- Francisco Lindor, Lake County (122 games): Shortstop was the most difficult spot on the list to select -- four of the Indians' top five prospects play the position and all four put together solid seasons.
Lindor gets the nod after backing up his status as Cleveland's top prospect in his first full season. After essentially bypassing Rookie and short-season ball -- he played only five games for Mahoning Valley after being drafted in the first round in 2011 -- the 18-year-old hit .257 and scored a team-high 68 runs for Lake County. A 2012 Futures Game selection, Lindor also was named to the Midwest League mid- and postseason All-Star teams.
"Lindor has the complete package. He does everything exceptionally well," Atkins said. "He's already become a leader on the field, and this is someone that's already only a year, year and a half away from the Major Leagues.
"He has a very solid approach from both sides of the plate, with very good instincts for someone his age. ... Now we just want to turn it into being an elite baserunner, someone who can steal bases and be a top-of-the-order type bat."
Honorable mention: Dorssys Paulino
Thomas Neal, Akron (117 games), Cleveland (nine games): Neal mashed his way to an Eastern League title with Akron, earning the first September callup of his eight-year career. Spending time at all three outfield spots, the mid- and postseason All-Star ranked third in the circuit in on-base percentage (.400), fourth in batting (.314) and tied for fifth with 77 runs scored.
"Thomas Neal has shown a lot of progress from 2011, just coming off a year where he was battling shoulder injuries," Atkins said. "In a ballpark that is very hard to show power, he did. He had a very high isolated power, hit a lot of home runs in that ballpark and really performed well over the course of the year."
The 25-year-old garnered Player of the Week honors on July 2 after going 13-for-24 with three homers, 10 RBIs and seven runs scored over a six-game span.
Tim Fedroff, Akron (54 games), Columbus (69 games): Fedroff returns to the Organization All-Star roster after varying his hitting approach and building on what already was an impressive stat line. The North Carolina product led all full-season Indians farmhands with a .316 average while setting career highs in homers (12), triples (10), stolen bases (14) and OPS (.879).
The fifth-year pro proved he can perform at the Minors' highest level, batting a team-high .325 in 69 games with Columbus.
"He's continued to be a better player every year -- he's a better defender, he's a better baserunner. He was 9-for-9 [in stolen bases] over the last month," Atkins said. "[He has] an unbelievable ability to get on base; his ability to hit is as good as anyone we have."
Jordan Smith, Lake County (116 games): After a promising debut season with Mahoning Valley, Smith showed no signs of a sophomore slump in 2012. His .316 average was good for second in the Midwest League and tied Fedroff for third in the organization. Smith also proved he can hold up to the grind of a full season, never being held hitless for more than three consecutive games while compiling 44 multi-hit efforts.
"Smith is a very good defender at the corner position. He can handle right field extremely well," Atkins said. "His progress with his bat has been extremely encouraging, and if the power comes, he'll be a Major League player."
Utility/designated hitter -- Russ Canzler, Columbus (130 games), Cleveland (26 games): The 2011 International League MVP continued to crush the ball in his first year in the Cleveland system, leading it with 22 homers and 79 RBIs. Canzler, who started games at first base, third base, left field and DH, led the IL with 36 doubles while ranking third in RBIs and total bases (237).
The 26-year-old was named to his second straight IL All-Star team and has made the Organization All-Star squad for three different Major League clubs (Rays, 2011; Cubs, 2010).
Right-handed starting pitcher -- Danny Salazar, Carolina (16 games), Akron (6 games): The native of the Dominican Republic was the ace down the stretch for the Eastern League champions, going 4-0 with a 1.85 ERA following his promotion from Carolina in early August. After allowing four runs in a rough Double-A debut on Aug. 5, Salazar yielded only four runs over his final five starts, all Akron wins.
The 22-year-old's overall ERA of 2.36 would have been tops in the organization if he had enough innings to qualify.
"He throws 95 to 99 mph," Atkins said, "with an average breaking ball and an above-average changeup. After his finish in Double-A, he is going to be someone you should definitely be aware of in the next six months. He could make a bid to be helping out the Major League team next year."
Honorable mention: Paolo Espino, Luis DeJesus
Left-handed starting pitcher -- Chris Seddon, Columbus (20 games), Cleveland (17 games): A veteran of 12 professional seasons, Seddon turned in one of the best performances of his career in 2012 -- his first year in the Indians organization. The 28-year-old went 11-5 in 20 starts for the Clippers, posting a 3.44 ERA and a 1.13 WHIP that ranked third in the IL. He also showed a vast improvement with his control -- his 27 walks were a full-season career low.
Seddon's campaign culminated in a September callup, and he compiled a 3.67 ERA in 17 appearances, including two starts.
Relief pitcher -- Preston Guilmet, Akron (50 games): A key cog in the Aeros' championship run, Guilmet led all Cleveland Minor Leaguers -- and tied for first in the Eastern League -- with 24 saves. The 25-year-old thrived in the pressure of the playoffs, recording four saves while pitching 6 1/3 scoreless innings. He also earned himmself a spot on the league's postseason All-Star team.
A 2009 ninth-round Draft pick, Guilmet posted a 2.39 ERA in 50 appearances -- his third straight sub-2.50 ERA campaign since converting from a starter in 2010. He was especially dominant through the middle third of the season, yielding one run and converting 12 of 13 save opportunities over 23 appearances from May 19-July 19.
Zack Cox is a contributor to MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.View More


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Remember to check out the most recent patches for Flem Kingdom--Patch 3.4.1 is now out. CRITICAL update to allow new players to create a new game.
Flem Kingdom and Flem nations are both put on hold for a while due to real life issues
I quit RF forevah. It appears I'll be on runescape again. Name will be flem2002, so goodbye equilibriumgaming.com


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7-9 March, 2005
The main topic of the miniworkshop is the interplay between galaxies and the surrounding intergalactic medium (IGM). The primary emphasiswill be to review and discuss the observational evidence for chemical,mechanical, and radiative flows in and out of galaxies in the low-redshift Universe. Additional discussions will compare this evidence to related processes in the high redshift Universe and to predictions of theoretical and numerical models. Agenda topics relating to the two-way exchanges of matter and energy between galaxies and their environments include:
- The Physics of Starburst and AGN Feedback
- Gas, Energy, and Photon Flows In and Out of Galaxies
- The Baryonic and Energy Content of Galaxy Haloes and Groups
- The Role of Environmental Effects (Tidal Interactions, Ram Pressure Stripping, etc.)
Ample time will be devoted to both current issues and future prospects for further progress in this field.
Program, abstracts, and list of participants are available as a PDF file.
Invited Speakers:
Mitch Begelman
David Bowen
Megan Donahue
Tim Heckman
John Hibbard
Guinevere Kauffmann
Rob Kennicutt
Crystal Martin
Bill Mathews
Mary Putman
Ken Sembach
David Strickland
Todd Tripp
Organizing Committee:
Daniela Calzetti (Chair)
Tim Heckman
Sandra Savaglio
Ken Sembach


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Should the Bank's Loss Be the Law's Gain?
by Kyle Scott | Posted May 26, 2012
The great thing about laws is that they protect us when we are unwilling and unable to do so on our own. Laws are great because they make sure no harm is done. So when it came to our attention that JP Morgan Chase just lost $2 billion because of risky investments and hedging, it may have seemed that what was needed was more and better laws, not personal responsibility.
Of course this isn't true.
Laws are necessary but not sufficient. Laws will never be able to keep pace with new developments in the financial sector, or anywhere else, which is why laws will never prevent problems but only react to them. And being reactionary instruments, laws cannot prevent the next wave of risky financial instruments or clever schemes to make money off of money.
In addition to not being able to anticipate problems, laws have unintended consequences that are sometimes worse than the problems they were designed to correct. Look at the laws that led to the housing bubble. For a time, the government, through various policies but primarily through Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, infused more money into the housing sector than the market would have on its own. By making loans easy and affordable for people who would have otherwise not been able to secure home loans the government encouraged a misallocation of resources that drove up home prices.
Making loans available to people who would not have qualified without government interference pumped more money into the housing market than the market demanded. This drove up demand, which in turn drove home prices beyond market levels. Housing prices fell because the market corrected itself. This correction is what we recognize as the bubble bursting. The bubble and the burst were unintended consequences of the government getting involved in the housing industry.
In the banking and finance industry the government also distorts risk assessment, thereby forcing a misallocation of resources. Keeping interest rates low discourages saving and encourages investing. Low interest rates make putting your money in the bank an unattractive option if you want a return on your investment. So if you want your money to make money, you put it in the stock market. The government is essentially affecting the supply and demand of money rather than letting the market set interest rates and therefore determine where capital flows. This forces money into circulation that would otherwise not be there.
The banking laws we have in place encourage risk taking in other ways as well. First, banks the size of JP Morgan Chase know they will get government bailouts when they bet wrong, which means they can take whatever chances they want, and there is no risk involved. Second, the FDIC insures traditional deposit accounts up to $250,000, which means that no matter what kind of investments a bank makes with your money, as long as your account is below the $250,000 threshold, no one loses. Banks can fail in any number of ways without anyone involved failing to make money. The unintended consequence of government interference is an increased willingness of banks and their investment arms to take greater risks, which become no risks at all.
Certainly FDIC insurance has many benefits, as did the Wall Street and automotive bailouts, but there are unintended consequences that may have counteracted the favorable effects, if not encouraged the sort of risky behavior that created the need for the laws in the first place. The only solution is for individuals to take responsibility for their own actions. In view of our attachment to laws, this is an unlikely solution, but it is the only one with any promise.
Laws allow us to relinquish personal responsibility. When we make a bad investment that we did not understand entirely, or get into too much credit card debt because we failed to control our spending habits, it is easier to blame the lack of sufficient laws than to blame ourselves. If we were not motivated to make money we would have no reason to enter the stock market or make risky investments. But if we are motivated to do these things, the least we can do is spend some time understanding what we are getting ourselves into. If we don't understand what others are doing with our money, or understand the risk involved, then we shouldn't get involved. And if we do get involved with something we don't understand, we have only ourselves to blame. Laws can't help this; only we can. More time and energy should be directed toward cultivating character than toward crafting laws.
Kyle Scott, Ph.D., teaches political science at the University of Houston and is an elected member of the Board of Trustees for the Lone Star College System. Kyle's most recent book is Federalist Papers: A Reader's Guide. His commentary on current events has appeared in Forbes, Reuters.com, the Christian Science Monitor, Foxnews.com, the Huffington Post, and dozens of local outlets. He can be contacted at firstname.lastname@example.com.
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Jon Harrison
"Laws allow us to relinquish personal responsibility." Should we then dispense with laws? Or are there aspects of life that are too big or too complicated for even the 140+ IQs among us to handle? The fact is that without laws we are back in the jungle. When the strong and able surpass the weak and less able, that is not a bad thing (of course, don't try to tell this to a Democrat). But when the strong prey upon the weak, society suffers. And that's why we need laws, because the strong all too often will abuse their strength. Personal responsibility alone is not enough (unfortunately) to maintain a civil and humane society. (I make this as a general point. I realize that the author is not arguing for a society devoid of laws.)
Without question, we have too many laws. And some laws are written to fight the last war, as it were, and wind up doing more harm than good. But consider financial regulation. From the time the United States began to industrialize, the nation was subjected to periodic financial panics. During the first 150 years of the Republic, these occurred with a roughly 20-year periodicity -- 1819, 1837, 1857, 1873, 1893, 1907, 1929. These "market adjustments" involved serious hardship for millions of Americans -- hardship that the average working stiff could neither have anticipated nor avoided, no matter now much "personal responsibility" he exercised. After 1929 laws were passed to curb some of the excesses of finance capital. Granted, the regime thus created was far from perfect. (How could it have been otherwise? There are no philosopher-kings among us, after all.) Yet under that regime we find no major panics occurred for almost 60 years. In the 1980s the regulatory environment began to be loosened -- and suddenly we have Black Monday in 1987, various scandals and panics in the 1990s, and finally the epic meltdown of 2007-08.
The idea that federal deposit insurance contributes to an environment in which banks take big risks is absurd. Guaranteeing small private deposits is one of the smartest things government has ever done. How many national bank runs have we had since federal deposit insurance was created? No way the average guy or gal with a checking and/or savings account would hold his bank's feet to the fire over risk-taking because his account might be in danger. The average account holder has neither the knowledge nor the time to monitor the sophisticated and opaque business practices of his bank. He ought to be able to keep his small amount of cash in the bank (rather than under the mattress) without worrying about whether he might lose it.
The problem discussed here, which boils down to the state's guaranteeing of institutions that are too big to fail, can be remedied by simply breaking up the banks. Certainly this would be a better solution than crafting a 2,000-page piece of legislation that does little more, apparently, than muddy the regulatory waters. Breaking up the banks is a clean, easy solution that protects the taxpayer from the possibility of TARP II. It does no harm. Big international deals can be handled by a consortium, as was the practice in the past. Yet no doubt many libertarians would decry a breakup of the big banks as an attack on the "market."
This piece, like others that have appeared here, concerns mainly abstractions as opposed to reality. Libertarians are marginalized in our society (indeed, throughout the world), because so many of them favor (whether they recognize it or not) theory over life. All too many Libertarians want to change the world without taking ito account the world as it actually exists and functions.
Sun, 2012-05-27 16:47
It would be nice if you did have the answer and it was as simple as you suggest. But to say that there is one definitive answer that is so clear and so simple is to fall prey to the pretense of knowledge--certainty in our ability to foresee the consequences of our actions. I prefer humility which is why I caution against government action from a large centralized body that assumes it possesses remedies for all that ail us. (I develop ths argument in my book Federalism, in articles in Publius and Arator that followed the book and in talks at the John Locke Foundation).
Does making banks smaller make sense? Sure. Is it guaranteed to work? No. There are no guarantees which is why I try to caution against such certainty which is all this article does. It tries to return responsibility to the individual and it tries to highlight that when the government, or individuals, take action there are unintended consequences. That doesn't mean no action should be taken, it simply means to go in with eyes wide open, and when making a policy recommendation, add the caveat "Of course, we could be wrong, and there could be consequences we do not foresee." That embrace of humility is my goal.
Certainly laws are necessary, but so too is personal responsibility. And while you cite significant laws that have done good things you failed to address the issue that laws enable people to feel as though someone else is taking care of things and then allow individuals to be less vigorous. The central tension is not whether there should be laws or not but rather how and what laws are appropriate. FDIC insurance has created a lot of good as I wrote and you reiterated. But, it has allowed me, the depositor, the luxury of not having to pay attention to how the bank lends my money. It has allowed me to relinquish responsibility. People may not hold the bank's feet to the fire as you say but that doesn't mean they should be rewarded for it either.
I thank you for taking the time to respond and to have well-formulated thoughts and examples. It is always refreshing to see someone who disagrees with me do so thoughtfully. That sort of exchange is always welcomed and should be encouraged.
Tue, 2012-05-29 14:08
Jon Harrison
Thanks for that last paragraph. I did not mean to imply that I had the answer and that it was simple, too. I do see why you may have thought so, however. My views on most things, and especially with respect to such fuzzy "sciences" as economics and psychology, are eminently provisional (that is, I'm always ready for new information and arguments). Had I been writing an article rather than a brief comment, I would have made this plain. I do think that the arguments you advance in your piece are largely fallacious, but whether my own prescriptions are on the money is, I admit, by no means certain.
Thu, 2012-05-31 09:57
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- Page 1 Audio Pro WF100 Wireless Transmitter Review
- Page 2 Performance & Verdict Review
Above this arguably the biggest benefit of the WF100 is it is platform neutral. Unlike Apple's AirPlay, which is limited to streaming from iTunes, or the various Kleer solutions which tend to be tied to individual docks (as seen with the Arcam rCube) the WF100 can play any media from any programme or any device (albeit some more simply than others). Consequently music is not your only option, your PC or laptop can also get a healthy audio boost if you were to play video from any media player.
So the WF100 is an unqualified success? Yes and no. You see for what it does the setup is essentially flawless, but in what it "is" there are inherent problems compared to its rivals. Notably streaming by AirPlay may be limited, but if you are happy to stick within its boundaries it is a more straightforward solution – particularly when paired with Airplay compliant devices like the Zeppelin Air which removes the need for dongles altogether – music goes straight from your phone or laptop to the device.
Furthermore at £150 the WF100 is no impulse purchase and it adds cost to any home setup you may consider buying. You should also factor in buying some longer 3.5mm and RCA cables since the ones supplied by Audio Pro are just 1m long making them virtually useless for any output not positioned right beside a wall socket.
Consequently for those looking to buy a new audio setup it would be easier to build it around an integrated standard such as AirPlay or Kleer. Then again where the WF100 really shines is in making the equipment you already own wireless capable and in that regard £150 is a small price to pay for adding such useful new functionality. Furthermore the clever housecode system brings the flexibility to make your setup as complex or basic as you like.
The WF100 wireless streaming system works beautifully. Setup is a breeze and its lossless streaming means audiophiles and even movie buffs will be satisfied. Its platform neutrality and its flexibility to stream from virtually any device to almost any output will be a dream for those with expensive legacy equipment. Then again for those looking to start from scratch it may be more sensible to build your setup around an integrated standard such as AirPlay or Kleer.
The WF100 may not solve the ongoing issue of fragmentation in the audio streaming sector, but it is a neat, elegant and diverse workaround.
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If you've been to Atlantic, you've experienced the dynamic environment and the smiling faces that define the Atlantic Attitude.
Nobody takes care of you like we do. As an Atlantic Awards member, you'll earn one award (worth $5) for every 100 gallons of Jet A fuel you purchase per transaction. And with our Double Awards, you can get whatever you want even faster!


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Jim Ware
Jim Ware is the coauthor (with Kurt Bruner) of the best-selling Finding God in The Lord of the Rings. His most recent book is God of the Fairy Tale (Shaw, 2003).Jim graduated from UCLA in 1976 with a B.A. in classics. After marrying Joni, he enrolled at Fuller Theological Seminary, emphasizing theology and Semitic languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Ugaritic) and eventually earning an M.A. in biblical studies. Daughter Alison, the first of six children, was born in 1979, just as Jim was completing his seminary coursework. For several years after graduation he supported his growing family as a member of the maintenance crew at the First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood. During this time he also taught adult and college-level Bible classes at the church and hosted study groups in his home. In 1986 Jim took a position as a staff writer with Focus on the Family, a multi-media Christian ministry based (at the time) in Arcadia, California.
It was in connection with his work at Focus that Jim authored Crazy Jacob, Dangerous Dreams, and Prophet's Kid (Bethany House Publishers). A deep love for the Bible, a strong interest in history, and a keen taste for good storytelling have all contributed to his sense of enjoyment and satisfaction in re-narrating these scriptural incidents for young readers.
In 1991 Jim and family relocated with Focus on the Family from Southern California to Colorado Springs, where they currently make their home. He enjoys everything about life in the shadow of Pikes Peak—especially the Thursday night Celtic music sessions at Poor Richard's restaurant, where he sings and plays the guitar and hammered dulcimer.
Source: https://www.tyndale.com/authors/jim-ware/702


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Item Description
Letter, James Garrison to Dear Cousin [Samuel Adair]
Author: Garrison, James
Date: February 27, 1857
Garrison wrote to Samuel Adair about the prospects for Kansas and being harassed by ruffians. He believed only a large migration to Kansas in the spring will prevent it from becoming a slave state. He discussed pro-slavery plans to prevent emigration to Kansas.
Location of Original: KSHS Call Number: Samuel and Florella Adair Collection, #161, Box 4, Folder 3
Item Number: 100350 Number of images: 2
Keywords: Adair, Samuel Lyle; Garrison, James; Migration, internal; Ohio; Proslavery activities
pg. 1
pg. 2


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Twitter Agrees to Buy Data Partner Gnip
Deal Signals Messaging Service Seeks Bigger Role in Providing Data to Advertisers
Twitter Inc. agreed to acquire data partner Gnip, in a sign that the messaging service wants a bigger role in analyzing tweets for businesses hungry for insights from social media.
Financial terms of the deal weren't disclosed.
Gnip is one of four companies with access to Twitter's so-called fire hose, the full stream of tweets since 2006,...


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Lifetime-limited warranty. Raincovers are optional, all sizes of seatbags use the hook and loop fasting system and "The Pad". When installed properly, work fantastically for many problem applications, and will NOT MOVE. Beautiful rubberized handles, PVC coated polyester Slip-Not Backs. Slip-Not is an anti-abrasion grip fabric, waterproof, strong and washable. All luggage is made out of a 600 Denier solution dyed Polyester urethane coated and/or 600/300 denier vinyl laminated PVC, diamond embossed material. All zippers are YKK and inserts are 60th ABS (Plastic) or polystyrene in areas where needed. All luggage is finished and lined in main compartments and major areas. A 3/8 inch foam combined onto a 200 denier coated nylon for the inside lining.
Produced by RKA of USA


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The popularity of the Offshore Technology Conference has ebbed and flowed with the health of the oil and gas industry. Last year, attendance soared above 100,000 people for the first time since 1982, reflecting growing global interest in deep-water discoveries. This year is expected to be another big one as technology pushes the limits of offshore drilling.
Take a journey through the Offshore Technology Conference's 45-year history:
Photo: Mayra Beltran
Source: Offshore Technology Conference


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Home >> Course Descriptions >> College of Nursing
Advanced Pathophysiology for Advanced Practice Nursing
Three semester hours, theory only.
This course is a comprehensive study of underlying concepts common to the major pathophysiologic processes of the body. The focus of this course is on the interaction of age, lifestyle, culture, gender differences, and intrinsic and extrinsic environmental factors on the dynamic aspects of physiologic mechanisms altered by disease in the human organism. Emphasis is on the pathophysiological concepts essential for understanding the rationale for preventive and therapeutic treatment/intervention. Prerequisite: Admission to the MSN program or permission of faculty.
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Inspired by Double Up from designer Sherri K. Falls of
This and That Pattern Company
1/3 yard blue print (bag)
3/4 yard total assorted prints and stripes in green, orange, and red (bag)
1-1/8 yards muslin
1-2/3 yards green print (bag, bag lining, pocket)
1/2 yard orange stripe (bag, handles, button loop, ties)
2—18x24" batting rectangles
25x35" heavyweight fusible interfacing
2/3 yard 1"-wide rickrack: orange
2—1x30" strips cotton webbing (handles)
4—7/16"-diameter eyelets
7/8"-diameter button: blue
Finished bag: 18x14x4"
Quantities are for 44/45"-wide, 100% cotton fabrics. Measurements include 1/4" seam allowances. Sew with right sides together unless otherwise stated.


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At Subaru of Pembroke Pines, we know our way around tires, especially when it comes to pairing your Subaru with the correct ones it was engineered to ride on. At our Tire Center, we offer all the major brands, and we can also assist you with all-season, summer/performance, and winter tire options. And when it's time for replacement, our expert Factory Trained Teams will properly mount and balance them to renew your vehicle's grip and ride quality.
We have you covered too!
Our Subaru 24-Month Tire Protection Plan comes FREE with any tire purchase.*
- 24-Month Tire Protection*
- Covers tire replacement or repair*
- Complimentary Subaru Tire Roadside Assistance*
- Redeemable at any Subaru retailer*
*Ask us about coverage terms and conditions.
Begin viewing tire options for your Subaru by clicking the button below.
The Importance of Good Tires
The area where your tires actually contact the road is very small, sometimes no bigger than the size of your hand. This makes it all the more important that they have adequate tread life and are in good condition to help ensure the safety and performance of your Subaru.
Choosing the right tires for where you drive.
Different climates have certain weather patterns associated with them. This means you may encounter different driving conditions throughout the year than someone with the same vehicle in a different area. Selecting the right kind of tires for the conditions you often travel in are crucial for your safety and how your Subaru handles the road.
So, how should you decide? Begin by determining your average driving conditions for the year. Is the climate warm all year long, or do you experience a combination of weather patterns with the possibility of light-to-heavy snowfall? After you analyze which climate conditions you commonly encounter, remember that seasonal extremes can occur, or you may travel to an area that has different conditions than what you're used to.
To help you make a more informed decision, here are some common classifications of tires – each with abilities suited for different climates and driving conditions. As always, we are happy to discuss tire options with you at our tire center, so you can make the best choice for your Subaru.
All-season Tires
Benefits of all-season tires.
- Engineered to perform in warm, dry and wet conditions
- Suitable in cold weather with light snowfall
- Intended for year-round use
- Longer tread life
- Many variations available
All-season tires are the most common type of tire purchased because they are designed to provide adequate traction for a variety of driving conditions – hot and dry, rainy, cold or snowy – and are ideal for moderate climates. The tread design and rubber compound work well in different driving conditions due to weather, and have longer tread life than summer-specific tires, for example.
However, since they're engineered for a combination of conditions, they are not tailored to provide the level of traction and abilities that summer/performance tires offer in warm and wet conditions, nor the grip and braking performance that winter tires have in cold, snowy or icy conditions. The good news is that tire manufacturers offer a spectrum of all-season tires – some handle certain elements better than others – so if you live in a moderate climate, we will help determine which ones are best suited for the conditions you usually drive in.
Summer/Performance Tires
Benefits of summer/performance tires.
- Improved braking, cornering and traction in warm climate conditions
- Exceptional street traction
- Enhanced performance in wet driving conditions
- High-performance versions available for speed and agility
If you live where it is regularly warm all year long, summer/performance tires are ideal for your vehicle. The tread design and rubber compound of these tires are engineered to "stick" to dry roads better than other tire types, as more surface area per tire makes contact with the road. Most summer/performance tires also offer increased traction on wet roads. Some versions are designed specifically for high-performance vehicles and are even better equipped for speed, cornering and hard braking. Depending on your model Subaru and regional climate, you may want to purchase summer/performance tires for the warmer climates and seasons, but switch over to winter tires when temperatures drop and snowfall is probable.
Winter Tires
Benefits of winter tires.
- Engineered to perform in cold temperatures, snow, ice and slush
- Soft rubber compound improves traction
- Increased stopping performance on snow/ice
- Decreases sliding during turns
You may want to start by asking someone who has driven with winter tires if they've felt more confident behind the wheel during wintery conditions. They will probably say that they have. The difference in confidence is attributed to the type of rubber compound and tread pattern of winter-specific tires. Winter tires are engineered to provide better grip in winter months than all-season tires, and especially more than summer/performance tires. But why?
The answer lies in what happens to other types of tires when the temperature falls near or below freezing. All-season tires work well in a combination of dry, wet and light-snow conditions, but, like summer/performance tires, their rubber composition hardens in cold temperatures. This makes them less effective for traction, braking and handling even if there isn't any snow on the road. Winter tires also have unique tread designs to cope with traveling over ice and snow.
What's a four-wheel alignment?
Simply put, a four-wheel alignment uses sophisticated lasers and sensors to determine the wheel angles of your Subaru. If the computer detects that they are out of alignment – according to specifications – our factory trained technicians make the proper adjustments to bring them back into alignment.
Having your wheels aligned – especially after having new tires installed – will help promote tire longevity. Poor road conditions and daily driving can cause misalignment over time. If you've felt vibrations or your vehicle pulling to one side, a wheel alignment may correct those concerns.
Ever notice this light before?
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light
If the TPMS light comes on and stays lit while you're driving, it is warning you that low tire pressure has been detected in one or more of your tires (excluding the spare). Tire pressure can drop when the weather changes from hot to cold, but it will also decrease if you have an air leak. You can check the pressure yourself. Watch the "Tire Pressure" video above for more information.
Remember, a flashing tire light may mean there is a malfunction with the TPMS system or a damaged sensor. You can bring your Subaru to our service center if you have a concern, and we can take care of that light for you.


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Custom Throw Pillow
Plain Rectangle in Cast Ash
The last step of customizing your throw pillow is selecting the dimensions. Tell me the width and height of the throw pillow you want me to make. After entering your pillow sizes proceed to the next step where I will give you a price quote for your new Sunbrella pillow.


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A SAS User's Guide to Stata
This guide is intended to introduce a SAS user to Stata and to be a cheat sheet when writing Stata code.
- Basic Conceptual Differences Between SAS and Stata.
- Stata's Windows Mode
- SAS code matched to Stata code
- SAS functions matched to Stata functions
- How to submit Stata do-files in batch mode
Tools to transfer data between SAS and Stata
(all require that both SAS and Stata are able to be invoked on the same computer)
- SAVASTATA: SAS macro to save a SAS dataset as a Stata dataset.
- SAVASAS: Stata command to save a Stata dataset as a SAS dataset.
- USESAS: Stata command to use a SAS dataset while in Stata.
- USESTATA: See the example in the STATA WRAPPER page that shows you how to create a SAS dataset from a Stata dataset.
- SAVAS (c-shell) script: Invoked at a UNIX/Linux prompt makes Stata datafile copies of SAS datafiles or SAS datafile copies of Stata datafiles.
- STATA_WRAPPER: SAS macro to run Stata code from within SAS.
- SASWRAPPER: Stata command to run a SAS program from within Stata.
SAS macros inspired by Stata programs
- CHAR2FMT: SAS macro to encode character variables.
- RUNQUIT: SAS macro to stop SAS from processing more code when an error occurs without ending your SAS session.
- ISID: SAS macro to test if variable(s) uniquely identify each observation in a dataset.
- MINIME: SAS macro to reset variable lengths to minimize the SAS dataset.
- WHICH: Find out what SAS macro SAS will invoke.
- REN_STEM: SAS macro to rename variables.
- TYPE: SAS macro to print a text file to your SAS output window.
Stata programs
- ADOEDIT: Stata command to edit an ado-file in Stata's do-file editor
- ETIME: Stata command to keep track of elapsed time
- IFWINS: Stata command to subset dataset by if exp before subsetting by in range
- LOOKFORIT: Stata command to search variable names and variable labels for some string or strings
- LOOKFOR_ALL: Searches for variables/patterns in Stata data files (.dta)
- LSTRFUN: Modify long local macros that contain strings
- MKPROFILE: Stata command to create or edit your profile.do
- NSPLIT: Stata command to split numeric variables with integer values into new smaller numeric variables
- RCD: Recursively traverse directories and execute any command in or for each one of them
Tools to transfer data between SAS matrix catalog files and SAS datasets
These SAS macros use PROC IML and are a great way to migrate a SAS matrix catalog file between operating systems since SAS catalog files can only be opened in the operating system they were created on.


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Spring Internship with MyRWA!
The Mystic River Watershed Association (MyRWA) seeks a GIS Intern to assist in a project investigating relationships between water quality data from stormwater systems and features of stormwater infrastructure, land use, population, and other variables. The GIS intern may be asked to assist in other data projects, if appropriate.
The GIS Intern will develop, edit, verify, and analyze spatial data related to drainage basins, municipal stormwater infrastructure, and water quality within the Mystic River Watershed. Experience with ArcGIS software and fluency with Excel are required.
Interns will learn about efforts that a watershed association undertakes to advocate for water quality improvements. The intern must be able to work independently and as a team. This is a part-time position that requires a commitment of two to three days a week during the Monday through Friday work week. Position begins in January and concludes mid-April - exact dates can be flexible depending on the candidate.
An interest in science, the environment and advocacy is encouraged.
This is an unpaid position.
Since 1972, MyRWA has played a unique role in the whole of the watershed by its science, advocacy, and outreach efforts. The Mystic River Watershed Association is based in Arlington, MA and is accessible via several bus routes. The Mystic River Watershed Association is an equal opportunity employer.
If interested, please send your resume to email@example.com. No phone calls please.
Deadline for application: January 4, 2015.


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Home >> Course Descriptions >> College of Education
Seminar in Speech/Language Pathology
Three semester hours.
The study of principles, methods and procedures for speech-language theory, assessment and/or intervention. Subject matter varies from semester to semester, so that specific communication problems may be studies in depth. The course may be repeated for credit when the subject matter changes.
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Academic Undergraduate Regulations -
Undergraduate Degrees - Academic Graduate Regulations -
Graduate Degrees - Course Descriptions - Faculty -
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[image name="radlett"]
Radlett Plumbers are your highly qualified and recommended tradesmen for any job. Our local plumbers in your area can help you with all major and minor emergency plumbing problems any day of the week. They can fix a leaky pipe or clear a clogged drain. All our services are fully insured and certified. You can even call us on [phone] for central heating or boiler issue.
Emergency Plumbing WD7 Radlett
Our local plumbers in Radlett WD7 can service or fix any plumbing problem in your home:
• Leaks – our team of experienced plumbers have solid knowledge and expertise solving all aspects of plumbing problems from repairing shower valves to cartridges.
• Blockages – we will clear any blocked sink or toilet along with the drains. You can count on us to turn your plumbing system back to normal.
• Burst pipes – Call us immediately on [phone] in case a pipe bursts in your home. It's an emergency which can cause severe damage to your home.
• Bathrooms – our expert plumbers will help design and install your new bathroom. They have installed hundreds of showers, spa's and baths for our clients around London.
• Hot Water Cylinders – our team of local plumbers can fix all types of cylinders or replace immersion thermostats.
Your Guarantee From Our Plumbers in Radlett WD7
Experiencing plumbing problems can be stressful. Thus our plumbers in WD7 London will make everything possible to fix the problem as fast as possible. You can count on our plumbing experts to:
• Arrive at the arranged time and keep you informed
• Explain you the problem and how our plumbers intend to fix it
• Provide you with all removed parts
• Put your safety first and work to Gas Safe regulations
• Charge a fair price for the work done
Get In Touch With Us
It's fast and easy to call our emergency plumbers in Radlett WD7. Just dial [phone] or fill in our contact for. You can trust us with any plumbing problem!


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I began Galathea for a travel project for my flight to Zurich a few weeks ago. I always forget that lace projects require you to not be crazy tired and are much easier to knit with good light. Jetlag and dark airplanes are not ideal for lace knitting in my book.
So what I have here is two repeats of the lace chart, so about 60 rows. I've knit the last 30 rows twice – yes I ripped out 30 rows because I'd messed up somehow and just couldn't live with it as is. It turned out to be a relatively painless process to redo it so I'm glad I'm a mature enough knitter to rip when necessary.
The knitting is going well now so I hope more trips to the frog pond won't be necessary. I'm using some lovely Fyberspates Scrumptious Lace that I scored in a swap with Kat and the yarn certainly lives up to it's scrumptious billing. The color is a vibrant, rich red that my limited photography skills don't do justice to. I'm a working fiend at present so progress will be slow around these parts. I tried to knit on this scarf while wearing my uniform the other day (I was in the lounge waiting for my flight – I don't knit on duty!) and the yarn became entangled in my wings unbeknownst to me and when I stood up my knitting dragged itself along for 10 feet before I noticed. Needless to say it didn't do my project any good and resulted in a hot mess that had to be ripped. I shall guard against my yarn grabbing wings in future so learn from my mistakes.
Also, is it just me or does the scarf look like a rattlesnake head?


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It's Not Finished 'Til The Fat Man Sings
Alex Kruk fondly remembers watching his father manhandle the family's two '61 AMC Ramblers out in the driveway when he was a young impressionable kid. "My dad was pretty mechanically inclined, and if you know anything about these cars, you know your hands were always dirty just trying to keep them running." It was about that same time, when he was just turning double digits in age, when he realized just like his dad, he too was hooked on cars. Before he knew it, his hands were just as dirty helping his dad keep the head gaskets intact on the feisty flathead AMC's.
To add fuel to the already smoldering fire, the family across the street from Alex had five motorhead boys, all of them growing up during the muscle car wars of the late '60s. The wildest son Ronnie had a ton of hot rods and fast rides, and that left an indelible impression on the younger neighbor Alex. A '55 Chevy gasser, a '64 tri-power GTO, and a '57 tri-power Bonneville all spent time in the driveway across the street, and pushed Alex into getting a muscular ride to call his own.
When Alex turned 18, he purchased his first cool car to flog around town, a bone stock '69 327 Camaro, which he wishes he never got rid of (join the club). From there, it was no turning back, he went on to grab a sweet '71 Gran Prix. A few years later, Alex married his high school sweetheart Mary. Together they bought a 440 Charger, which Mary consistently terrorized the local streets of Westbury, Long Island, with. She just loved having all that power on hand, and craved the Mopar's aggressive looks and coke bottle styling as well.
Fast forward a few more years, Alex and Mary started a family, and developed a business. For the time being, the hot rods were set aside while he tended to the everyday chores of keeping a family on its feet and keeping the business running strong. However, once he got a little bit ahead in this game called life, he bought himself a toy … a '72 454 Vette, a car he still proudly owns today. But it didn't stop there for Alex; no way. Back when he was 13 or 14 years old, his good friend Bob's older brother had a pale yellow '57 Nomad, which he took an interest in. This was a ride that Alex just had to have. It took a while to find one he could rebuild, but after an exhaustive search, one was located out in Illinois. It was a real project, but Alex quickly turned it into a bona fied head turner.
But then, in early 2005, Alex got another itch for a cool ride, thinking maybe an old school Rat Rod would be a neat project. So he scoured the Internet looking for a likely candidate, and found one to his liking in Kansas … a beat-up but dry '51 Chevy 3100. Once shipped back east, Alex immediately started the tear-down process on the old beater. After adding a Fatman chassis and picking up a new ZZ4 crate motor, he realized this was not going to be any kind of Rat ride. At that point, the project was turned over to Richie Herman at L & L Auto Restoration LTD in Glen Cove, New York, for a complete ground up buildup.
Once Richie received the truck at L & L, the chassis and its components were completely torn down, and the project was started from scratch. Being a body man by trade, he first started off by mocking up the completed ride, checking fit and fitment of the trucks main components on the Fatman frame. From the original '51, only the cab, front fenders, and hood were saved. Richie was then on the lookout for other vitals, scoring some fresh doors from a junkyard, and then buying a brand-new aftermarket bed for the rear of the truck. After the bed was secured, Richie went out to make a set of custom tubs, just so he could get some big time wheels and rubber out back in the near future.
Next, a set of stock rear fenders were procured and modified to hold the oversized rear running gear. Richie then cleaned up the rear fender's stabilizer bracket, removing the factory rivets, welding it on and then finally smoothing out the welds for a neater look. Last, but not least, the rear gas filler panel was moved from the cab and placed out on the rear fender, closer to the relocated gas tank.
Richie went on to further touch up the body. Underhood, the engine bay was cleaned out, welds were touched up, and every crease and junction was smoothed out. This cradle that now holds the engine is like glass, and it's the perfect encasement for the fully decked out crate ZZ4 which would power this ride. In the bed, fresh oak was laid out, and marine style pop up cleats were installed for a trick look, and to have a means of tying anything down that might roll around on acceleration. The roll pan was kept out back, and the bumper was flipped and installed. Unfortunately, there was an issue with where to install license plate, as to place it where it wasn't obstructed from view. It was decided that the bumper would be cut out in the middle, making it into two separate bumperettes, which would make the local law enforcement community happy.
Once the body was set, Alex had to choose an appropriate color to paint his ride. Richie laid out several different colors on the truck … at the same time! He did this so Alex could compare different hues, and how they interacted with the truck. After a few changes, he finally settled on silver as the color. Richie then laid out a few coats of an Alfa Romeo Silver Standox paint on the body. His painting technique involves spraying the car with a few color coats and a coat of clear, letting it sit for a month to let the paint and body work settle. Next, he once again blocks the paint out, smoothing out any imperfections.
Once finished, he again shoots the truck with color, finishing it off with four coats of clear. During this process, the grille, running boards, splash pan and frame were sent out and powdercoated in silver, which almost identically matched the silver on the body. The 16×10 and 15×8 steel wheels were also sent out and powdercoated to a deep red, keeping with the vintage look of his ride. Alex wrapped them in Goodrich radials … 215/65/15 up front, and 265/60/16 out back.
As far as handling the road, the truck rides on polished SST suspension, which came onboard with the Fat Man chassis. Out back, a three link is in place, while the Chevy rides on Pro Shock coilovers in all four corners. For stopping power, four wheel power disc brakes help bring the '51 to a halt in a hurry, while a narrowed Ford 9-inch rear, stuffed with 3.70 gears get the power out to the wheels.
The cab was sent out to RP Interiors in Horseheads, New York, to get the full treatment. Custom door panels, carpets and headliner were made for the Chevy, and they even did a custom console up in the headliner. The seats are also custom made by Leather Glide, and were reupholstered in leather at the shop. The dash was also smoothed out by Richie and painted to match the trucks exterior. Classic gauges were then installed throughout the cockpit, a tilt Flaming River column with flashers was installed, and then topped off with a polished aluminum Flaming River steering wheel … of course, wrapped in leather.
At that point, Alex insisted that Richie finish off the project, even though Richie had never wired up a complete ride before. So he hit the books, tackled the job, and ran all the wire that would get this truck runnin'. First off, he passed all the wires through the frame so they wouldnt be seen … neat trick. And in the engine bay … similar trickery can be found. Richie cut and fit stainless steel tubing, which he ran the engine harness through. This hid any wires from view underhood—a custom trick, which really cleans up the engine bay. Once again a nice touch which really sets this truck apart from the guy parked next to him at the car show.
Once back from the interior shop, the cab was remounted, and then all sights were aimed at the drivetrain. Richie laid the ZZ4 motor in the engine bay and hooked it up a 700-R4 four-speed transmission with lock up. The motor is totally decked out in chrome—anything that could be chromed, was chromed by Street Performance. Up top, a Demon Six Shooter is the cherry on top of this crate motor; not only for a vintage look, but also to keep this hungry engine fed with enough fuel. MSD ignition provides the spark to the nearly 400hp motor.
Nowadays, Alex's sweet '51 can be seen traveling the roads Long Island, collecting stares and glances wherever the pickup takes him. The silver Chevy has made the rounds at the local shows, grabbing awards wherever it's parked, and making its owner proud. Last, but not least, Alex would like to send out a special thanks to Ron at Don's East Coast Restoration and Joe Herman for their help with the project.
As for the future, who knows? Right now Alex enjoys running the 400 horses on the Southern State Parkway, pushing the '51 and opening up those triple deuces. This Bow Tie is no ordinary truck, and Alex just loves making the ZZ4 and the Fat Man chassis sing … in horsepower harmony. CCT