text:
Full profile →'">
The author is a Forbes contributor. The opinions expressed are those of the writer.
When I was younger I enjoyed watching a television show called I've Got a Secret. The premise of the show was to have celebrity panel members guess the identity, occupation or accomplishment of a guest by asking a series of questions. The guests would oftentimes attempt to mislead or confuse the panelists with less than accurate responses in order to not divulge their "secret." It's time to start uncovering the real secret behind big data, its ultimate promise and the most valuable application for businesses.
Before we begin, let's set aside a current "big data" application—programmatic advertising placement—which is akin to the less than accurate responses used in I've Got a Secret to throw contestants off track. Widely publicized, programmatic ad placement is really a smoke screen and nothing more than a cost saving application. It is designed only for the online ad expenditures of a company, therefore its impact is only for the percent of the total advertising budget allocated to online and the eventual effect is consistent to that level.
So what is the big secret about big data? It has to do with big answers for big decisions by senior members of a corporation. The kind of answers needed to make decisions by the upper management folks, which if wrong, could severely hurt a company. The reality of big data is that it is big—too big for most companies to manage. Even the NSA is having difficulty dealing with the immense flow of data from the digital world. No surprise that most organizations don't have either the technical infrastructure or human resources to handle it.
A recent Harvard Business Review article stated, "You may not need big data after all." This article goes on to say that companies who have embarked on the big data quest have little to show for their efforts. Most companies who travel down the big data road don't really want to be in the big data world. They just want the fruits of its promise—better insights for decision making. This can best be accomplished by identifying the relevant data needed by senior team members to enhance their decision making process.
Relevant data can come from numerous sources such as the data currently existing in a company, data on the economy, data on consumers, data on competitors, digital data from cyberspace, public/government data, etc. By mining/refining the various data sources and analyzing relevant data to enlighten and even uncover new insights, managers will be able to respond faster to important business challenges in order to improve business performance. Of course, it would be naïve to assume that the investment in hardware, software and people would automatically create solutions from big data. The competencies and skill sets to do this are in short supply and lacking in most companies.
This is the big secret of big data: it's not about the size of the data; it's about relevant data which is rather small in comparison. Timely access to appropriate analytic insights will replace the need for data warehouses full of irrelevant data, most of which could not be managed or analyzed anyway.
Relevant analytic insights can only occur by mining and analyzing data to answer specific business problems. Think of it as crude oil. Once it is mined and refined, gasoline can be produced. But since gasoline represents a little less than 50% of each barrel of crude oil, many other products (6000+) can also be developed ranging from petroleum jelly to antiseptics. One does not need to invest in oil exploration and refining in order to use gasoline or petroleum jelly. You buy a finished product manufactured by someone else.
In the same way, the future use of big data for most enterprises will come from the license of advanced analytic applications derived through the mining/refining of relevant data in the big data world. The applications will be specific to a company and their challenges so that better, faster and more well-informed strategies can be developed and problems solved.
By partnering with strategic analytic data providers, companies will move faster, with less risk and more successfully, towards capitalizing on the promise of big data.
And that is the secret opportunity for big data.
Gary Drenik is CEO of Prosper Insights & Analytics, a company that prides itself on turning data into solutions. www.ProsperDiscovery.com


text:
VICTORVILLE — Still concerned about the possible negative effects in the city's low-income and minority areas, the City Council on Tuesday could choose to extend for six months an in-play moratorium on granting permits to money service businesses.
The current 45-day moratorium was issued in late June because city officials said they wanted to fully evaluate the risks that a heavy concentration of such establishments might pose to Victorville's most vulnerable residents. It's set to expire Sunday.
"The city, like many other cities in California, has found that limiting the zoning of money service businesses has helped prevent residents from impulsively committing to these loans by decreasing availability to these businesses," stated an earlier report prepared by City Attorney Andre de Bortnowsky.
Money service businesses include payday loan, check-cashing and car title loan-style establishments. The moratorium does not impact federally charted banks, savings associations, credit unions or industrial loan companies.
While a city staff report calls a six-month extension "necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health or safety," the decision to halt permits for payday loan-lenders has come under fire by the California Consumer Finance Association.
In a letter sent to Mayor Jim Cox and other council members, CCFA President Natasha Fooman writes that "a payday loan may be the best choice when consumers consider the often higher costs of bouncing a check, paying overdraft protection fees or incurring late payment penalties."
Fooman has urged the council not to "single out an industry that is already heavily regulated at both the state and federal level," and claims the moratorium signals to commercial interests that Victorville is "not a business-friendly city."
A six-month extension will require four-fifths vote of the council to pass.
Shea Johnson may be reached at 760-955-5368 or email@example.com. Follow him on Twitter at@DP_Shea.
Halt on new permits for payday loan-lenders could be extended
Aug 5, 2014 at 10:56 AM
Aug 5, 2014 at 11:04 AM

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Last Day!
We've got lots of busy-but-fun plans for this weekend and I'm so glad it's finally Friday!! Meeting up with friends, birthday lunches, client meetings, more friend get-togethers for dinner and The Hunger Games ... bring on the weekend!
And don't forget, today is the LAST DAY to enter my Ruche Giveaway for your chance to win a $50 gift certificate! The contest closes at midnight tonight so get those entries in ASAP.
What are your plans for the weekend?
If these feminine frocks for less than $50 don't convince you, I don't know what will.
9 comments
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Twentieth Street | All rights reserved.


text:
Well we made it through another Easter holiday and I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter! Our "Easter Bunny at home" turned out great and the kids loved getting their picture taken with him. My youngest, Olivia wasn't afraid of him at all. I knew that having the Easter Bunny come to our home and the neighborhood parade was the perfect idea to put Olivia's fears of the Easter Bunny on hold (at least for this year)! Don't forget to get your Easter Bunny costume for next year!
Memorial Day and the official start of summer is right around the corner. I can't believe the kids only have a little over a month left of school. My gosh, where has the time gone! Memorial Day, formerly known as "Decoration Day" is observed on the last Monday in May. It is a day of remembering all the U.S. men and women who lost their lives serving our country. It has become both a national decoration day of family graves and a holiday that opens the summer season. There are many parades, backyard barbeques and family get togethers.
Memorial Day is always a big deal around here with a pool party to celebrate the opening of our pool for summer, to welcome the end of the school year, but most importantly it's a time to remember and honor all the service men and women. Every year we decorate with a "Patriotic" theme of red, white and blue. We enjoy watching the Memorial Day parade and waving our small American flags with everyone in our community.
It's a great time to dress up in a Patriotic costume to show your support for the armed services and the good old U.S. of A. HalloweenExpress.com has so many wonderful Patriotic costumes to choose from such as an Uncle Sam costume, Statue of Liberty and some great military costumes for adults and children of all ages. What better way to say thank you and show your love of our American soldiers!


text:
You will receive an automated e-mail with your tracking information. Free Shipping over $50!
Size Chart
US | Jeans | Jrs. | UK | Euro | Bust | Waist | Hips | |
xs | 0 | 24-25 | 0-1 | 4-6 | 32-34 | 31″-32″ | 23″-24″ | 33″-34″ |
s | 2-4 | 26-27 | 3-5 | 8-10 | 36-38 | 33″-34″ | 25″-26″ | 35″-36″ |
m | 6-8 | 27-28 | 7-9 | 10-12 | 38-40 | 35″-36″ | 27″-28″ | 37″-38″ |
l | 10-12 | 28-29 | 11 | 14-16 | 42-44 | 37″-38″ | 29″-30″ | 39″-40″ |
xl | 14 | 30-31 | 13 | 18-20 | 46-48 | 40″-42″ | 32″-34″ | 42″-43″ |
Return/Exchange Policy applies ONLY to online purchases made through shopredclover.com
Thank you for shopping with shopredclover.com. If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase we will gladly refund or exchange your item(s).
Returns/exchanges are ONLY accepted within 14 days of the date you receive your item(s).
- You may not return or exchange: sale items, lingerie, sunglasses, and gift certificates.
- Shipping and handling on returned merchandise is nonrefundable.
- All merchandise must be returned unworn, unwashed, and with original tags attached. Shoes must be returned in their original shoe box without damage to the box.
How do I make an Exchange?
You may exchange an item for another size or even a completely different item. To ensure that your item is not sold out, please call us at 1-888-330-8998 to hold your item(s) or email. Just follow the return instructions and mark the box labeled exchange.
How do I make a Return?
Contact us through phone or email for a return form. Please remember that you will be responsible for the shipping costs and it is highly recommended that you send your package with a tracking number. Once your return is processed your credit card will be refunded for the amount of your purchase minus the shipping charges incurred. Please allow 1-2 weeks from the shipping date for your account to be credited and 1-2 billing cycles for your credit card refund to appear on your statement.
This multi colored sweater has navy, brown, ivory and green stripes with unique shapes in between. If you're heading home for the holidays, you'll need this sweater to just throw on and go! It's cozy style will keep you warm and stylish!
100% Acrylic
Length 34"
Model is 5'6 and wearing a small.
Measurements taken from a small.
You Might Also Like
Key West Top
Birds of a Feather Top
Candace Top
Alice Blue Top
Poppy Top
Riverside Top
Blooming Floral Top
Savannah Top
Knit Vest
Soft Grey Tunic
Kelly Tunic Top
Boho Vibes Top
Peach Cardigan
Sunshine Top
Wild Flower Top
Rose Utility Vest
Floral Breeze Top
Maria Top
Leopard Tunic
Adventures Vest
Sweet Talk Top
Carly Knit
Royal Plaid Top
Light Travels Knit
Lace Floral Top
Aria top
Carefree Top
Morrocan Top
Pumpkin Spice Top
Weekend Tee
Coastline Top
Chelsea Top
Tassel Cardigan
Monet Blouse
Lakewood Vest
Long Lines Knit
Around Town Top
Rosie Top
Cape Cod Sweater
Cross Fringe Sweater
Melanie Top
Melange Knit
Cozy fringe top
Gathering Top
Casual Friday Top
Gypsy Soul Cardigan
Cactus Top
Camo Hooded Tunic
Cold Shoulder Tee
This multi colored sweater has navy, brown, ivory and green stripes with unique shapes in between. If you're heading home for the holidays, you'll need this sweater to just throw on and go! It's cozy style will keep you warm and stylish!
100% Acrylic
Length 34"
Model is 5'6 and wearing a small.
Measurements taken from a small.


text:
Image: Dinosaurs at Sunrise by Bill Gracey on Flickr
Dinosaurs roamed the world millions of years ago and included the largest ever land animals. These resources look at what they were, how they lived and why they became extinct. SCIS 1525151
BBC Dinosaurs
Dinosaurs were the dominant land animal for 160 million years, find out the reasons why.
Suggested level: primary, intermediate
University of California Museum of Paleontology website. Includes answers to some frequently asked dinosaur questions.
Suggested level: intermediate, secondary
Fun facts about dinosaurs for kids and learn about everything Dinosaur from ferocious Tryrannousaurus Rex to the enormous Diplodocus.
Suggested level: primary, intermediate
Showcases a wide range of dinosaur illustrations.
Suggested level: primary, intermediate, secondary
Discovery Channel's guide to dinosaurs
All you need to know about dinosaurs from when and where they lived and what they ate, to the latest discoveries. Includes videos.
Suggested level: primary, intermediate, secondary
DK Find out is a safe and rich site providing facts, ideas and resources on an array of topics including a range of dinosaurs and fossils.
Suggested level: primary, intermediate
Facts about the different eras that dinosaurs roamed the earth. Learn which era different dinosaurs came from.
Suggested level: primary, intermediate
To discover information about dinosaurs on the school work site ManyAnswers use the search term 'dinosaurs.'
Suggested level: primary, intermediate, secondary
Explore videos of New Zealand scientists talking about our dinosaur past. Includes information on Joan Wiffen who discovered New Zealand's first dinosaur fossil.
Suggested level: primary, intermediate, secondary
The Smithsonian's guide to dinosaurs
Comprehensive guide to dinosaur species, including interactive activities.
Suggested level: intermediate, secondary
Britannica Online School Edition provides information on countries of the world. School login (username and password) is required
Suggested level: primary, intermediate, secondary
Have you thought about using fiction with your class to support your topic? The following are some suggestions for your students (and you!) to read and enjoy.
George and the dinosaur, by Felix Hayes, 2014 (picture book)
How do dinosaurs say merry Christmas?, by Jane Yolen, 2012 (picture book)
Romans v dinosaurs on mars, by Nikalas Catlow, 2011 (fiction book)
Dinosaur across the desert. Movies2You. Youtube.3.01
Dinosaur the attack. Movies2You. Youtube. 3.05


text:
Language purists blanch at acronyms, but corporations love to invent grandiose new titles and efficiently compress them into convenient, three-letter shorthand. Alas, many of these firms have turned out to be better at coining new titles than at running their businesses, which explains the sudden return to prominence of the CRO, or chief restructuring officer.
Last year a record 257 publicly held firms declared bankruptcy, up from 176 in 2000, according to Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. statistics. "CROs have become much more common as bankruptcies have become more common," says Todd Zywicki, a Boston College law professor who specializes in bankruptcy law.
The title has been around for at least a decade, ever since the recession of the early 1990s drove many big firms into bankruptcy court. The current recession has generated a renewed focus on the CRO concept, especially since Jan. 29 when
Since Enron is the biggest corporate bankruptcy in history and a scandal of epic proportions, Cooper and his previously arcane specialty have been getting a lot of attention. Actually, his situation at Enron is atypical, because he is acting both as CEO and CRO. More usual is the example of
A chief restructuring officer "is a person who has primary responsibility for the restructuring of the company's balance sheet," says Peter Cheston, senior managing director for Alvarez & Marsal, a New York turnaround firm. A restructuring specialist may be brought in as chief executive or chief operating officer (COO), in which case the specialist is actually running the firm. "But if you're brought in as a CRO, you're not the CEO, and you're not the COO," Cheston says. In that situation, the incumbent managers run the firm's operations while the CRO focuses on what must be done to satisfy its creditors.
As an outsider, the restructuring specialist may be less qualified than the incumbent CEO to manage the firm's day-to-day business. But the specialist has a more detached perspective on the hard choices that need to be made as part of the restructuring process. "They figure out what's worth saving and what should be thrown overboard," says Zywicki.
Zywicki traces the origins of the CRO phenomenon to 1978, when the federal bankruptcy code was rewritten to make the process less traumatic. Before then, big companies rarely took on so much debt that they were forced into bankruptcy. When they did, it often meant the end of the company. But after 1978 the game changed, as the corporate raiders of the '80s learned how to use the retooled bankruptcy laws to facilitate their leveraged-buyout approach.
The bankruptcy process, Zywicki says, "became more of a business tool as opposed to a disgrace; more of a business strategy as opposed to a confession of abject failure." That process accelerated during the recession of the early '90s, when a number of big firms that had piled on debt during the '80s boom came crashing to earth.
Part of the 1978 change was that bankruptcy courts no longer were required to appoint a trustee in every case. If a big company were using the bankruptcy process to restructure, creditors might agree to keep incumbent management in place but bring in a restructuring specialist to clean up the balance sheet. Thus did the CRO join the roster of corporate acronyms. And now, after a dormant period during the long 1990s boom, the CRO is back, big time.
The formal title is necessary because if a turnaround specialist is brought in as merely an outside consultant, he may not have enough power to do the job right. So he is hired as CRO in part to appease the firm's creditors, who also may have a voice in his selection. But a chief restructuring officer's actual duties may differ widely from firm to firm, depending on the situation. And a company that hires one may not even declare bankruptcy at all, if its restructuring can be accomplished short of taking that step.
"The beauty of the CRO title is in its perfect meaninglessness," Zywicki quips. "It's a verbal fig leaf. You can tailor what they do to the circumstances of a given case."


text:
A Manhattan federal judge sentenced Anthony Seminerio, a former state assemblyman from Richmond Hill, to six years in prison last Thursday for abusing his power as a lawmaker and extorting money out of hospitals, nonprofits and other groups in exchange for lobbying state officials on their behalf.
The six-year sentence handed down by U.S. District Judge Naomi Reice Buchwald was far less than the 14 years Seminerio could have received. The 74-year-old politician will have to report to the state Bureau of Prisons within 30 days as well as pay a $1 million fine, Buchwald said.
"When you were elected, you were given a great privilege," Buchwald told Seminerio, who spent much of the morning sentencing with his head down and hands folded. "You abused the trust placed in you."
Seminerio pleaded guilty in June to taking more than $300,000 from Jamaica Hospital administrators in exchange for approaching state health officials to promote their interests. The federal prosecutors, led by William Harrington, said Seminerio created a sham consulting agency, Marc Consultants, to squeeze $1 million out of Jamaica Hospital, the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce, Plaza College in Jackson Heights, the Long Island Rail Road and other organizations while in office.
The legislator, whose 75th birthday is in 11 days, expressed concern about how he would fare during his six years in prison.
"I'm 74 years old," Seminerio said. "How much time do I have left?"
Family members, friends and supporters of Seminerio packed the courtroom Thursday and several cried as Buchwald read her decision.
Michael Ross, a defense attorney representing Seminerio, described his client as a hardworking man born into an impoverished immigrant family and asked that Buchwald's decision allow him "the hope that at the end of the sentence he be able to spend the short time left in his life with his family and his wife of 50 years."
Buchwald addressed his family and friends at Thursday's sentencing, saying the former lawmaker had not honestly explained to them the "breadth of his criminal conduct."
"Mr. Seminerio, I don't know why you strayed from the values you were brought up with," Buchwald said. "%u2026 Was it greed or did you rationalize your behavior?"
Seminerio's sentence is four years less than that given to Brian McLaughlin, the former Flushing assemblyman who originally put Seminerio in touch with an FBI agent posing as a developer. The FBI listened in on and recorded numerous conversations with Seminerio that were later used in court. Seminerio landed $25,000 from the FBI agent and in exchange agreed to propose legislation favored by the supposed developer.
McLaughlin is now serving a 10-year jail term for stealing $2.2 million from a neighborhood Little League, city contractors and his own labor union.
Reach reporter Anna Gustafson by e-mail at agustafson
©2010 Community News Group
By submitting this comment, you agree to the following terms: You agree that you, and not TimesLedger.com or its affiliates, are fully responsible for the content that you post. You agree not to post any abusive, obscene, vulgar, slanderous, hateful, threatening or sexually-oriented material or any material that may violate applicable law; doing so may lead to the removal of your post and to your being permanently banned from posting to the site. You grant to TimesLedger.com the royalty-free, irrevocable, perpetual and fully sublicensable license to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works from, distribute, perform and display such content in whole or in part world-wide and to incorporate it in other works in any form, media or technology now known or later developed. |


text:
An elegant Marie Hayden headband with crystal and lace detailing.
Made in the USA.
Width: 2.5in / 6.5cm
Made in the USA.
Width: 2.5in / 6.5cm
Marie Hayden launched her eponymous line of hair accessories after years in front of the camera. Throughout her modeling career, Hayden was fascinated by the creative side of the fashion industry. In 2013 she launched her collection, a reflection of Hayden's creative sensibilities and passion for providing timeless, quality pieces to women of all ages. Marie Hayden hair accessories offer a distinctive vision, adding a touch of glamour to everyday outfits or that special ensemble.
Shipping & Returns
Free Shipping Worldwide: No matter where you are sending your order, we offer free express shipping across the globe. Shipping Details
Easy Returns: Because we understand that not every purchase is exactly right, we've made returns easy. With the return form and return shipping label included with every order, customer service calls aren't necessary. And if you're in the USA, returns are free. Return Details
Shipping Available: Shipping Within USA Only: For Amazon Prime members, free two-day shipping is available for all Shopbop & East Dane products.


text:
Mugabe inauguration: To be attended by many, boycotted by one
Zimbabwe's veteran leader Robert Mugabe will be sworn in for a new five-year term on Thursday in a massive stadium inauguration that will be boycotted by his election rival.
Opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai insists the July 31 vote that returned the 89-year-old to power was rigged and will shun the swearing-in.
The event will take place at the country's largest 60 000-seater sports stadium and around 40 leaders have been invited.
"It's going to be a grand occasion, no doubt about that," said Simon Khaya-Moyo, chairperson of Mugabe's Zanu-PF party.
A Constitutional Court ruling confirmed Mugabe as president and declared the elections "free, fair and credible" and that the results "reflected the free will of the people of Zimbabwe".
But Tsvangirai's spokesperson said the opposition leader "can't attend a robber's party".
"Expecting Tsvangirai to attend the inauguration is like expecting a victim of robbery to attend a party hosted by the robber," Tsvangirai's spokesperson Luke Tamborinyoka said.
'Defeat of neo-colonialism'
The inauguration had been delayed after Tsvangirai challenged the poll results in a petition to the Constitutional Court.
"We are excited about the inauguration ceremony," said Rugare Gumbo, spokesperson for Zanu-PF.
"Our win represents the defeat of neo-colonialism and tomorrow we are celebrating not only President Mugabe's inauguration but the victory of Zimbabwe, Africa and progressive forces across the world."
Unlike previous investitures which were low-key, the ceremony promises to be high-profile in what is seen as a show of power designed to confer legitimacy amid persistent questions around the vote which extended Mugabe's 33-year grip on power.
The organisers said the event would be similar to Mugabe's inauguration as prime minister in 1980.
But of the foreign leaders invited, only Namibia's Hifikepunye Pohamba is so far known to have confirmed.
South Africa, which brokered a peace deal after the violence tinged 2008 vote, is sending Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe. Botswana and Malawi will do the same.
Former leaders from Tanzania, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia and Zambia will attend.
'A farewell event for Mugabe'
A music concert will include artists from South Africa, Zambia and Jamaica – whose iconic Bob Marley played at Zimbabwe's independence event.
"This inauguration is being projected as the crowning of a victory of a struggle for the past 13 years against big Western powers," said Eldred Masunungure, a political scientist from the University of Zimbabwe.
There is however also an "unintended meaning", he said. "It can be read as a farewell event for Mugabe. It reminds one of Jesus's Last Supper."
Thousands of Mugabe's supporters were expected to troop in from across the country.
The electoral commission declared Mugabe winner with 61% of the vote, against Tsvangirai's 34.
The elections ended a shaky power-sharing government formed by Mugabe and Tsvangirai four years ago to avoid a tip into conflict following a bloody presidential run-off election.
Local observers have judged the elections flawed and Western powers have raised serious doubts over the vote. But regional and continental groupings the Southern African Development Community and the African Union were less critical.
Tsvangirai's series of complaints
Among a series of complaints, Tsvangirai queried the suspiciously high number of voters who were turned away from polling stations in urban areas which are considered opposition strongholds.
He also charged that his party's supporters in rural areas were intimidated by Mugabe party backers into feigning illiteracy and voting in the presence of police and election officers.
But in a surprise U-turn on Friday, Tsvangirai withdrew his petition saying he would not get a fair hearing.
He said the courts had frustrated his efforts to access election materials he wanted to use as evidence.
But the Constitutional Court went ahead and handed down a ruling on the case anyway. – AFP


text:
Wes Anderson has an interesting directorial resume, working on films as varied as 'The Darjeeling Limited' and 'Fantastic Mr. Fox'. He turns in another oddball project with 'Moonrise Kingdom' (PG-13), an indie comedy-drama set in New England in the 1960s. When a boy and a girl fall in love and run away together, hatching elaborate plans as they go, their entire town turns out to look for them—and the fun begins. Early reviews seem to indicate he's churned out an ambitious and original piece of work, and in any case, the rather interesting cast list is reason to give it a try: Edward Norton, Bruce Willis, Bill Murray, Harvey Keitel, Tilda Swinton, and Frances McDormand all star.
Disabilities and accidents tend to be played for melodrama on the big screen, which makes 'The Intouchables' (NR) an incredibly refreshing change of pace. The movie is based on the story of Philippe Pozzo Di Borgo, a French aristocrat who became a quadriplegic following a hang-gliding accident in 1993. Three years later, his wife dies, leaving Philippe (Francois Cluzet) alone and in need of care; he begins interviewing for a live-in caregiver, and decides to hire a poor young man named Driss (Omar Sy) for the job. Slowly, the two men develop a friendship, as Driss helps Philippe overcome his depression and see beyond his disability. (In French with English subtitles)
Same year, different projects: after Tarsem Singh's take on the classic Snow White story crashed and burned back in March, newbie director Rupert Sanders tries his hand with 'Snow White and the Huntsman' (PG-13), a decidedly darker take on the fairy tale. (Ironically, Lily Collins, who played Snow White in 'Mirror Mirror', first auditioned for this film but lost the role.)
Sanders' version keeps many of the classic elements of the tale, casting Kristen Stewart as Snow White and Charlize Theron as the evil queen Ravenna, who becomes obsessed with youth and beauty at all costs. When Ravenna's magic mirror informs her that Snow White will soon surpass her, the queen hires a huntsman (Chris Hemsworth) to kill the girl—but instead, he becomes her ally (and potential love interest), training her to become a warrior to overthrow the queen.
Rumors of an in-development sequel are already flying around the Internet, but before anyone gets too hyped-up, they might take a step back and remember another recent dark twist on a classic fairy tale, 'Red Riding Hood'. 'Snow White' looks fantastic, from the visuals to the spot-on casting of Theron as the evil queen, but it might be wise not to start placing any bets before the movie actually hits theatres.
Eduardo Sanchez, who got his start in the film world with 'The Blair Witch Project', returns to horror with 'Lovely Molly' (R). After her father dies, newlywed Molly (Gretchen Lodge) moves into his country house, only to be beset by disturbing memories and creepy occurrences. Her husband, Tim (Johnny Lewis) dismisses the creepy phenomena as mere coincidence or local kids playing a prank; but when he leaves Molly alone for his job as a long-haul truck driver, she spirals downward into paranoia and relapses into a drug habit, intensifying her fear.
Sanchez keeps the audience guessing throughout the film: is the house haunted? Or is Molly's drug use causing her to hallucinate and invent phenomena? She breaks out her hand held camcorder to record the events around her, but what's really creepy, and what's merely creepy when seen through Molly's point of view? It might be a genre thriller, but as one of the guys who kick-started our obsession with found-footage horror, Sanchez knows that perspective is everything, especially when you're all alone in an empty, creaky house.
What would summer be without a cheesy sequel…in 3D? 'Piranha 3DD' (R) finds the pack of bloodthirsty mutant fish leaving their lakeside feeding grounds to infest a busy water park. Cue the boobs, blood, and screams as a group of friends (Danielle Panabaker, Matt Bush, and David Koechner) try to save the water park staff and patrons from a grisly fate.
It's interesting to note that the Weinstein Co. invested $20 million to produce this film. When 'Piranha 3D' hit theaters in 2010, it barely remade its $24 million budget at the domestic box office. But that film also released into theatres crowded with new releases and big-budget hits that had been reaping big numbers for multiple weeks. By comparison, 'Piranha 3DD' arrives during a lull in the box office, with recent releases like 'Battleship' sinking fast; only one major new release ('Snow White') for the weekend; and a lack of similar dark comedy or horror releases in theatres. Hmm, maybe the Weinsteins do have a chance of turning a profit after all.


text:
UCLA spring football preview: Specialists
Spring football is officially here. UCLA begins camp Tuesday afternoon, the first of 15 practices that will serve as a major precursor for the 2011 season.
But first, one final position preview.
Taylor Embree (senior), Jeff Locke (redshirt junior), Joe Roberts (redshirt freshman), Josh Smith (redshirt senior), Kip Smith (redshirt freshman)
Embree, J. Smith, K. Smith
"Jeff has quickly become one of the elite punters in the nation. We will look for Kip to step right in as our placekicker. This spring we will put our placekicker, long snapper and holder candidates through the paces and see who has the best chemistry. Josh and Taylor gave us solid production in the kick return game last season and we will work to improve those units in the spring as well."
Who else will get a look at punt and kickoff returns?
The Bruins listed only Embree and Josh Smith on its pre-spring depth chart at the return positions. But those two were too ordinary last year and there are too many other options here for UCLA to settle.
Ricky Marvray and Damien Thigpen shared kick return duties with Smith and produced comparable numbers. They will probably get a strong look in spring. The more confounding situation is having Embree and his unremarkable 6.9-yard average as the primary punt returner. Neuheisel has maintained Embree is the team's best catcher, but clearly UCLA could get a lot more out of that position.
Thigpen, whom the Bruins have yet to figure out where to play on offense, would seem to be the prime candidate. There's also Randall Carroll or Jordon James, or perhaps a defensive back or receiver to be named later.
- Wednesday, March 16: Quarterbacks
- Thursday, March 17: Tailbacks
- Friday, March 18: F-backs
- Monday, March 21: Receivers
- Tuesday, March 22: Tight ends
- Wednesday, March 23: Offensive linemen
- Thursday, March 24: Defensive linemen
- Friday, March 25: Linebackers
- Monday, March 28: Defensive backs
- Tuesday, March 29: Specialists
More from the UCLA blog:
[rssfeedme cat="ucla" feedpath="category/football/feed/" max="10"]
Most Popular
- 13 people barricade themselves in Santa Ana business during robbery
- Two teens wounded in suspected gang-related shooting in Santa Ana
- 19-year-old woman shot in Santa Ana
- Orange Coast College honors anti-Trump instructor Olga Cox, but she turns it down
- Here's why Marines are blowing up 3 dams in Orange County's canyons
User Agreement
Comments are encouraged, but you must follow our Privacy Policy Policy & Terms of Use
Keep it civil and stay on topic. No profanity, vulgarity, racial slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. By posting your comment, you agree to allow Orange County Register Communications, Inc. the right to republish your name and comment in additional Register publications without any notification or payment.


text:
: I have heard on the news that these difficult economic times have brought about many new frauds perpetrated on seniors. What should we look out for?
: Have you ever received a check in the mail from a contest or lottery that you could not recall entering? Perhaps in better times you would have been more skeptical. Now, when people tend to feel somewhat desperate, caution often takes a backseat. A gift is a gift and don't ask questions.
This, however, may be one of the scams that Mark Hoops, Consumer Fraud Investigator from the New York State Attorney General's Office presented to the Adult Protective Services Task Force, of which I have been a member for many years. We invited Investigator Hoops of The Attorney General's Poughkeepsie office headed by Vincent Bradley, to speak to the Task Force to help us to better serve the seniors we represent. Now I can pass on some of what he told us to you.
The "counterfeit check scam" can take many forms. It may be unexpected "winnings" where you must send some money back for handling, etc., or an overpayment for an item you were selling. When you deposit the genuine looking check into your own account, your bank may tell you that the funds are available. But this is not because the check is good, but rather because you have a high enough balance in that account to cover it. So you may feel confident when you send your own check back to the scam artist, only to learn later that his or her check was worthless.
How to avoid this? Ignore any offer that requests a pre-payment for a prize or a gift. If you are selling any item, do not accept an overpayment requiring you to return the excess amount. Finally, if you feel you absolutely must take some action on that unexpected check that arrives in the mail, take a deep breath and wait until your bank tells you that the check has actually cleared, not merely that the balance is "available". If it is a legitimate offer, they will wait a few more days.
Here are a few more highlights from Investigator Hoops' talk and the materials he distributed:
1. Mailings that offer to obtain for you the "all important" certified copy of your deed for a fee
- In fact, you can get this yourself directly from the County for significantly less. As a lawyer, I can tell you that you almost never need a certified copy of your deed - not for a loan and not even if you are selling your home.
2. Door to door magazine subscription sales
- Where you get to pay but never read. The salesperson is required to have a peddler's license. Even children. Ask for it.
3. Charity telemarketers
- Hard to resist. However, they are required to register with the State, so ask for their registration number and a copy of their annual report. In fact, the Attorney General's Office has a publication which shows you the percentage of donations that actually go to the charitable purpose, as opposed to "administrative expenses", i.e., salaries, etc. While charities are exempt from the "do not call" list (which all of us should be on), if you ask the caller to take you off the list, they must do so. This is a practice I follow myself and I always advise the caller that I do not make contributions on the phone but will be happy to look at their literature if they send it to me in the mail. Most of the time, nothing is sent.
4. Rogue contractors
- Any time a "contractor" appears at your door uninvited and offers to do some work for you such as pave your driveway, be very suspicious. You can check specific contractors on the Attorney General's website (click on 'Know Your Contractor'), or call the toll free number and ask for Mark Hoops. The website and toll free number are listed below. Ask the contractor for references. You have the right to a written contract stating the work to be performed, the price and time of payments and the date of completion. Ask for an insurance certificate for anyone working on your home. Never pay in full before the job is completed.
5. Identity theft
- Someone from your bank calls and asks if you would like your credit card interest rate lowered. Of course you would. Then they start asking you for your personal information. That is when you should hang up. Your bank already knows your personal information. More to the point, if your bank wanted to lower your rate, they would not need to call you at all, they would just lower your rate. The rule of thumb is that you should never give your social security number and other personal information over the telephone unless you are certain of the person or the business on the other end. If you are purchasing an item on the internet, look for the "padlock" security sign.
Finally, if you suspect identity theft, then Investigator Hoops advises to follow the relatively simple procedure of freezing your credit, a process that only you personally can reverse when needed. You can do this by going to the websites at the three major credit reporting services - Experian, TransUnion and Equifax.
The Attorney General's Office is a great resource. Especially helpful is the "Smart Seniors" brochure. Here is the contact information: website: www.oag.state.ny.us; Toll Free: 1-800-771-7755; our regional office: 845-485-3900.
Sanford R. Altman is an Elder Law Attorney with a firm in Orange, Dutchess and Sullivan Counties, a member attorney of the AARP Legal Services Network, a member of National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), and frequently writes on Elder Law issues for local publications. He may be reached at the following number (845) 778-2121. Please note that while this column is intended to give general legal information, everyone's circumstances differ. This column is not a substitute for obtaining legal advice directly from an attorney which will address your particular circumstances.


text:
Moody's: Illinois Budget Could Undo 'Significant Progress'
The credit rating agency Moody's says Illinois is at risk of undermining progress toward better finances. It says the failure to extend current income tax rates could lead to a worsening deficit.
Moody's said because lawmakers failed to stop an automatic tax cut scheduled for the end of the year, Illinois could have to increase its backlog of unpaid bills. The state already has the lowest credit rating in the nation.
Republicans say this shows Illinois needs to further reduce costs, but Democratic Senate President John Cullerton said there isn't that much left to cut.
"I mean we've cut Medicaid with the SMART Act, we've cut pensions with the pension bill we passed, we had cut education for like four or five years in a row, until we were able to maintain it for the last two years," he said.
Cullerton said that just leaves things that people don't want to cut.
"They just want you to get rid of the fraud and waste, whatever that means," he said. "So it's going to come down to the revenue, and I think the rating agencies will hopefully point that out. It might help."
Indeed, Moody's said that the lower tax rate could lead to a structural deficit. It says that could reverse "significant progress" the state has made in reducing billions of dollars worth of unpaid bills.


text:
3. Do you use a fit service?
A good shop uses a recognized fit service, like Fit Kit or the Serotta Size Cycle, which has a defined methodology and offers technician training. (Serotta requires it.) A fit session will cost between $40 and $200, depending on the complexity of service you want, but it can be a worthwhile investment.
4. Is there a fit guarantee?
Some elements of bike fit, such as reach to the bar, bar height and cleat position, manifest themselves only over time. Is the shop prepared to help you dial in those issues as part of your bike-buying investment? Look for a written guarantee that lasts at least 30 days.
Warning Signs
Most bike shops are great, but beware if you encounter any of these things:
They say no test rides: A few shops have stopped offering test rides for liability reasons. We recommend steering clear of them because it could lead to potential future headaches on fit issues.
Your objections are overruled: If a salesman insists a frame is the right size and you think it's not, seek a second opinion at another shop. The first shop may be trying to get rid of old inventory. A key tip-off here is low levels of floor stock, especially if you're considering a discounted model from last year.
You get attitude, or ignored: If the salesman seems uninterested in you, go elsewhere.


text:
Tim Tokaryk
A review of The First Fossil Hunters: Paleontology in Greek and Roman Times, by Adrienne Mayor.
Lynn Steen
A review of The Math Gene: How Mathematical Thinking Evolved and Why Numbers Are Like Gossip, by Keith Devlin.
Barry Holstein
A review of Concepts of Mass in Contemporary Physics and Philosophy, by Max Jammer.
John Firor
A review of Beating the Heat: Why and How We Must Combat Global Warming, by John J. Berger and The Satanic Gases: Clearing the Air about Global Warming, by Patrick J. Michaels and Robert C. Balling, Jr.
Peter Pesic
A review of Lucifer's Legacy: The Meaning of Asymmetry, by Frank Close and Antimatter: The Ultimate Mirror, by Gordon Fraser.
Joel Spencer
A review of Mathematics: Frontiers and Perspectives, edited by V. I. Arnold, Michael Atiyah, Peter D. Lax and Barry Mazur.
S. S. Schweber
A review of Labyrinth: A Search for the Hidden Meaning of Science, by Peter Pesic.
Celia Moore
A review of Sexing the Body: Gender Politics and the Construction of Sexuality, by Anne Fausto-Sterling.
Robert Dudley
A review of Symmorphosis: On Form and Function in Shaping Life, by Ewald R. Weibel.
Michael Cohen
A review of Feeding the World: A Challenge for the Twenty-First Century, by Vaclav Smil.
Total Records : 12
Current Reviews
Community Guidelines: Disqus Comments
Scientists' Nightstand
Science Book Gift Guide 2014
Science Gift Guide 2016
Science Book Gift Guide 2015
Contact the Bookshelf
- Book Excerpt
- Book Review
- Classic Book Review
- Interview
- Letter to the Bookshelf
- Nanoview
- Poetry On the Bookshelf
- Scientists' Nightstand
- Reviewer
- Topic
- Issue
An early peek at each new issue, with descriptions of feature articles, columns, and more. Issues contain links to everything in the latest issue's table of contents.
Receive notification when new content is posted from the entire website, or choose from the customized feeds available.
JSTOR, the online academic archive, contains complete back issues of American Scientist from 1913 (known then as the Sigma Xi Quarterly) through 2005.
The table of contents for each issue is freely available to all users; those with institutional access can read each complete issue.
View the full collection here.


text:
The objective of this paper is to determine whether learning and practicing mindfulness techniques, particularly guided imagery, helps reduce symptoms of anxiety in children and adolescents. The purpose is to explore non-pharmaceutical options for stress reduction, prevention of chronic illness later in life, and symptom relief as a first line of defense for parents of children suffering from anxiety symptoms related to general anxiety disorder, social anxiety, panic attacks, school or test anxiety, separation anxiety or situational anxiety such as before and during medical procedures. The literature review consists of 45 peer reviewed articles found in the Ebscohost data base. The research was narrowed to 15 closely related articles. The hypothesis is that using guided imagery as a self regulation treatment as well as prevention against childhood anxiety manifesting into disorders and diseases later in life is useful. Also discussed in this review are settings for teaching guided imagery, implications of the findings, and directions for future research.
Keywords: adolescent, anxiety, child, chronic illness, guided imagery, meditation, mindfulness, self regulation, stress
Guided Imagery as Treatment and Prevention for Anxiety, Chronic Stress, and Illness
Jeanne B. Hanish
Year Completed:
Number of Pages:


text:
Sanford, FL, USA < change city >
DJs (35)
Florists (27)
Caterers (25)
Bands (21)
Coordinators (20)
Officiants (15)
Cakes (13)
Decorations (13)
Wedding Day Beauty (13)
Videographers (12)
Rentals (11)
Wedding Fashion (9)
Tuxedos (7)
Favors (7)
Jewelry (6)
Ceremony Sites (61)
Reception Sites (39)
See All Vendors >
Lee Forrest Design, LLC
51 North Bumby Avenue
Orlando, FL 32803, USA
Florists, Decorations
5 ratings, 5 reviews, 5 weddings
Lee is fantastic!! He was so easy to work with and has GREAT taste. He knew exact...
Pink Flamingo at Petals
201 Canal St
New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, usa
Florists, Decorations
2 ratings, 2 reviews, 3 weddings
I am so happy with our floral arrangements! They came out beautiful! I explained ...
Vintage Vines Fine Flora...
2630 Edgewater Dr
Orlando, Florida 32804, USA
Florists, Decorations
1 rating, 1 review, 2 weddings
Karin recreated my vision perfectly! Her suggestions added to my original idea an...
Greenery Productions
1751 Directors Row
Orlando, FL 32809
Florists, Decorations
1 rating, 1 review, 1 wedding
Greenery Productions, hands down, are the best. We are so happy to have worked wi...
Cheryl's Distinctive Cre...
3400 Silver Star Road
Suite A
Orlando, FL 32808, USA
Florists, Decorations
1 rating, 1 review, 1 wedding
Loved the flowers, Cheryl's did a fabulous job.
Blossoms Orlando
Orlando, Fl
1 rating, 1 review, 1 wedding
Amy is amazing. My flowers were beyond gorgeous and she went out of her way to ma...
Winter Springs Florist
1055 W State Road 434
Winter Springs, Fl 32708, USA
Florists, Coordinators/Plan...
1 rating, 1 review, 1 wedding
Melanie with Winter Springs florist did an outstanding job! She listened to what...
Country Club Flower Shop
109 E. Crystal Lake Avenue
Suite 113
Lake Mary, Florida 32746, USA
Florists, Rentals
1 rating, 1 review, 1 wedding
Friendliest ladies ever! Kat is fantastic. I had no idea what type of flowers I w...
Dream Designs
2822 Corrine Drive
Orlando, FL, United States
1 rating, 1 review, 1 wedding
She did a great job at listening to what I wanted and working with me to create w...
Details Flowers & Photog...
Altamonte Springs, FL, USA
1 rating, 1 review, 1 wedding
I can't say enough good things about Details. Corrine is so talented and I feel l...


text:
For Sale:
Phase Technology FL-8 Subwoofer SOLD
Will Ship To: North America
Just seeing if anyone needs a great sub for audio. I purchased this sub several years ago and have used it sparingly with a few pairs of bookshelf speakers. The reason I purchased this sub is it's great for listening to music, when paired with a good monitor this sub delivers clean tight musical bass with no bloat or sloppy overhang. It is a 8 inch sub with a down facing 8 inch passive radiator. I have heard several subs and if you want a sub to pair with a quality bookshelf speaker to do some critical listening this one works. It is in like new condition in original box with all packing. Here are the specs from the manufactures website. I believe it is a great deal at $100. plus shipping (and fees if using Paypal). I am beginning to downsize and also have some other equipment I will be selling off in the future, if interested feel free to ask.
Passive Radiator: 8" Ultra long-throw mica graphite poly cone with NBR surround
Amplifier Power: 250 W continuous, 600 W peak
Speaker Level Inputs: 2
Speaker Level Outputs: 0
Line-Level Inputs: 3
Line/LFE Input: Yes
Frequency Response (+/- 3 dB): 32 Hz – 150 Hz
Low pass crossover: 40 – 110 Hz (variable) 24 dB/octave plus LFE setting
Auto on: Yes
Dimensions: Height (14.625″) Width (11.125″) Depth (15.25″)
Weight: 23 lbs.
Shipping Weight: 28 lbs.
Finish Options: Black ash laminate


text:
Last week, WWD reported that Kate Moss's eponymous perfume will debut this fall. The print ad (above left) shows her looking quite the opposite of a "nasty old rag"â¿¿take that, Pete Dohery! But hot...
Fashion footnote: Style Blogger loves Lacroixâ¿¿especially his madcap, romantic couture creations. Thankfully, though, the Paris-based fashion designer's world isn't strictly made-to-order. Not only does he have a ready-to-wear line (favored by the likes of Kirsten Dunst and Camilla Belle, pictured below left), Lacroix created a more affordable collection for French department store La Redoute. The lines includes everything from dresses to Monsieur Doudou (a colorful stuffed animal). Style Blogger's pick, however, is the ruffled red trench coat modeled by Lacroix muse Lily Cole (below right). Shop the store's US web site, but be sure to check out the French version for more fun (if unavailable) designs.[
Fragrance footnote: Beyonce is the face of Emporio Armani Diamonds, which hits stores next month. But the fragrance can already be found on the Giorgio Armani beauty web site.


text: Watch 12 Cute Dogs Bark The Star Wars Imperial March In VW's Super Bowl Ad TeaserMatt Hardigree1/18/12 8:59pmFiled to: Super Bowl Ad WatchStar WarsImperial marchJohn WilliamsThe Bark SideTopVideoAd Watch1211EditPromoteShare to KinjaToggle Conversation toolsGo to permalink Last year Volkswagen won The Super Bowl commercial battle with their little kid dressed like Darth Vader ad. This year they're returning to the Star Wars theme as teased in this super cute commercial with a pup who appears to be Bones Mello the AT-AT Dog we first showed you in October. Is Volkswagen's Super Bowl ad inspired by something they read on Jalopnik? Advertisement Advertisement All we know about this ad, other than what we can ascertain by watching it, is the note saying it'll somehow "all make sense" when you see the commercial.Also, VW will help you join the Dark Side with Star Wars-themed Super Bowl invites here. May the dog version of The Force be with you.(Hat tip to Alex!)Reply121 repliesLeave a reply