text:
As an action-packed year for the HIV/AIDS community draws to a close, TheBody.com takes stock of 2010 in a new series of articles, "HIV/AIDS Year in Review: Looking Back on 2010 (and Ahead to 2011)." Read the entire series here.
The year 2010 is coming to an abrupt close and as my days grow shorter and colder I am looking back at this interesting year. You know, ever since my diagnosis in 2007 my message has always been one of hope. But the events that I witnessed and participated in in 2010 shifted my point of view a little. To get an understanding of what I mean I write the following illustrations.
Hope is defined for me in the terms of a Soldier. Imagine a Soldier stuck in a war trench. Shots can be heard being fired off in the distance. Random explosions shake and rock the trench every now and then. I am the Soldier lying there in this dirty, rotten, cold trench. I feel exhausted, hungry but most important angry being in this situation. I look up to see my commander staring me dead in my eyes. Without hesitation he bellows out: "Hold the line at all costs! Help is on the way."
Now, what I've been through, especially this last month, in 2010 gives a slight variation to that scenario. The only difference is that THIS time the commander yells out: "Hold this line at all costs!!" That's it, nothing more. No help is on the way but you gotta continue to hold the line. This is how I define perseverance. There are times when I must persevere, even when I just don't feel like it or when I know NO help is on the way.
Isn't this true for most of us though? Don't you find yourself in a situation where you KNOW there is no more help out there for you but you MUST hold the line?
We use a lot of different sayings in the Army and one of them is to STAND FAST. Because there will be times when you are forced to hold the line no matter what else you might be going through. So where exactly am I going with this?
I want to share with you my year-in-review interpretation. I want to express with you how I discovered another useful variable in life's complex equation. Living life on life's terms carries many variables. Hope is most certainly one of them, but it is not the only one. So how did this come about for me? Well let me tell you.
In this past year I have had the opportunity to really get active in the HIV/AIDS community. It all came about when I was offered a position on the National Latino AIDS Awareness Day (NLAAD) Committee. This started around early July. About two weeks later, I was offered to co-write an article for the Arizona Daily Star about the importance of HIV testing. The article went so well that I started receiving interview offers. Also, my friends on the NLAAD committee arranged for some key spots to advertise our coming event.
About one month prior to the event, which took place in October, I was called in to interview for the Arizona Daily Sun. It went pretty well. One week later I was interviewed by the Telemundo News people. I briefly spoke about my story and getting tested. That also went well. Two weeks before the event I had the privilege to speak at an event at Pima Community College about living positive and openly gay. That speech went very well as the students were more than eager to ask me everything they did not know about HIV. In MY mind I started thinking: WOW this event is getting pretty good coverage. I'm pretty sure the other committee members are also doing their part so this event should be overflowing with people, right? No.
On our National Latino AIDS Awareness Day, as I walked into that auditorium I was shocked. There were roughly 15 to 20 people that showed up. My heart sank a bit. I was the keynote speaker there and started losing my will. I played it off to my fellow committee members, putting on that fake smile. And as I waited there in the background for them to introduce me, questions started fluttering in my mind:
Are you kidding me? Do I really have to go on with this speech? I mean, NOBODY really bothered to show up. Don't they get how important this issue really is? God, help me. Help me get out of this one, please. Why even bother?
The gentleman called my name and I calmly walked out to the podium. I remember looking into the darkness. The spotlights beaming down on my face. The sound of my finger tapping at the microphone. I looked out into the audience and began to give my speech. Do you wanna know why? Because, sometimes no matter how bad it gets or how hopeless it looks, you have to hold the line.
And a song comes to mind when I think about this lesson. It's a famous song from a great and beautiful performer and man. The song is titled "The Show Must Go On." And it is sung by Freddy Mercury. And those lines to this song are so true at times. One of my favorites is when he says: "Inside my heart is breaking, my make-up may be flaking but my smile still stays on."
Yes indeed, hold the line. The show must go on. Persevere. That is the key lesson I will take with me from 2010. This is an interesting ride I am traveling on. Just when I think I'm beginning to see the entire picture, something else gets thrown at me. No worries. That's just how it goes sometimes. But, I am honestly grateful and happy to be able to share my experiences not only with my family and friends but with all of you, my extended family here online. For however I have this opportunity I want to extend a deep hearted THANK YOU to the ones who read what I write and also share comments. My family here in Tucson, Arizona, wishes you all a very Happy Thanksgiving and a VERY MERRY Christmas. God Bless and see you in 2011.
The U.S. military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy got Enrique Franco kicked out of the Army. It also, oddly, was the reason he found out he was HIV positive.


text:
9th Annual Our World Portfolio Review March 13-15, 2015
Our World | Addressing the Creative Ways We Explore, Portray, Express and Connect Communities Through Images.
This event brings together top photography editors, publishers, curators, gallerists, and educators representing small, mid-sized, and major venues from around the U.S. and abroad to meet with engaged photographers, review their portfolios, encourage their careers and exchange opportunities.
A fantastic opportunity to show your photographs to professionals who publish, exhibit, write and teach.
Get new ideas, make connections, and find opportunities.
Held at the San Francisco Art Institute.
We have an alliance with LensCulture, a site that shares our goals of supporting contemporary photography throughout the world. We will use the state of the art LensCulture entry tool for submissions. Logon on now to create an account and upload your application.
To guarantee a high quality experience, the work is pre-screened and the number of participants limited.
During the weekend of March 13-15, 2015, the selected photographers will each have ten, twenty-minute sessions with different reviewers over the course of two days, with ample opportunity for further networking.
The weekend's activities include a Friday evening lecture open to the general public.
The deadline to submit work for consideration is March 1, 2015. Space is filling fast so act now as we fill on a first-come basis.
Initial application fee: $45.00 for up to 20 images for screening.
If selected, additional fee: $595.00 for full participation to meet with ten reviewers.
(payment plans available)
2015 Reviewers
Confirmed Reviewers Include:
Robert Aufuldish, Book Designer, Aufuldish & Warinner & Professor, California College of the Arts, San Francisco, CA Jacqueline Bates, Photography Director, The California Sunday Magazine, San Francisco, CA David Bayles, Artist, Educator, Author, Eugene, OR Steven Brock, Photographer and book artist, San Francisco, CA Debra Bloomfield, Educator and Photographer, San Francisco Art Institute, SF, CA Alessandra Capodacqua, Fondazione Studio Marangoni, Florence, Italy Linda Connor, Photographer & Educator, San Francisco Art Institute, San Francisco, CA Elizaberth Corden, Owner, Corden Potts Gallery, San Francisco Janet Delaney, Educator and Photographer, UC Berkeley and San Francisco Art Institute, SF, CA
Taj Forer, Founding Editor, Daylight Magazine, Hillsborough, NC Genevieve Fussell, Associate Photo Editor, The New Yorker, New York, NY Geoffrey Hiller, Photographer & Editor, Verve Photo, Portland, Oregon Ann M. Jastrab, Gallery Director RayKo Photo Center Anne Kelly, Associate Gallery Director, PhotoEye Gallery, Santa Fe, New Mexico Paula Kupfer, Managing Editor, Aperture Magazine, New York, New York Ken Light, Director, Center for Photography, Adjunct Professor U.C. Berkeley Noah Lang, Gallery Director, Electric Works, San Francisco, CA
Melanie Light, Writer, Publisher, Editor, Orinda, CA Michelle Dunn Marsh, Executive Director Photographic Center Northwest, founder of Minor Matters, Seattle, WA Christopher McCall, Director, Pilara Foundation, Pier 24, San Francisco Ramekon O'Arwisters, Curator of Exhibitions San Francisco Airport Museums, SF, CA Ted Orland, Artist, Educator, Author, Santa Cruz, CA Jan Potts, Owner, Corden Potts Gallery, San Francisco, CA Alex Ramos, Gallery Director, Leica Store & Gallery, San Francisco, CA Kirsten Rian, Independent Curator, Writer, Artist, Portland, Oregon Meghann Riepenhoff, Artist & Educator, San Francisco Art Institute, San Francisco,CA Laura Sackett, Creative Director, LensCulture, San Francisco, CA Jennifer Pritheeva Samuel, Photographer and filmmaker, Brooklyn, NY
Danny Sanchez, Gallery Manager, Modernbook Gallery, San Francisco, CA Thom Sempere, Director, PhotoAlliance, San Francisco, CA Lily Siegel, Associate Curator, Contemporary Jewish Museum, San Francisco, CA David Spalding, Director, Haines Gallery, San Francisco, CA
Heather Snider, Executive Director, SF Camerawork, San Francisco, CA
Ada Takahashi, Robert Koch Gallery, San Francisco
Anne Veh, Art Consultant & Independent Curator, San Francisco Judy Walgren, Director of Photography, San Francisco Chronicle, SF, CA Lewis Watts, Photographer and Educator, UC Santa Cruz, Emeriti Alex Webb, Photographer, Magnum Photos, Brooklyn, New York Rebecca Norris Webb, Photographer, Brooklyn, New York
email: firstname.lastname@example.com
or call: 415.425.5608
Photos from 2014 review:

subset: commoncrawl


text:
In 2009 a mother was fully covered as she breastfed her baby in an Ikea store in Brooklyn, N.Y, when an employee and security guard hustled her off to a bathroom where she could "nurse in private." As Sarah Miller stood in line waiting for the bathroom, her hungry daughter screamed and cried and the mother eventually left the store to feed in her parked car.
In 2012 a similar situation occurred though even more unsettling. A Georgia woman was breastfeeding in a church when the pastor ordered her to feed her baby in the bathroom. When Nirvana Jennette objected, he referred to nursing as lewd and compared the mother to a stripper.
These are just two stories that made it into the media. Moms nursing in public get sent to bathroom stalls, dressing rooms and parking lots all the time. You read about it in online forums and hear about it in mommy groups. Sometimes people are verbally telling moms to go to the bathroom; more often it's just a dirty look that says, "Get out of here. I don't want to look at you."
All of this hostility toward breastfeeding women had Texas college students Kris Haro and Jonathan Wenske concerned. When it came time to create a mock ad campaign for a class project last spring Haro and Wenske decided to put together one aimed at gathering support for protecting a mother's right to breastfeed in public. They decided to call it When Nurture Calls. The backbone of the campaign was a series of photographs of women nursing in public bathrooms (above) that they envisioned being printed on large posters that would be stuck on the back of bathroom stalls. The provocative images haven't made it onto bathroom stalls yet, but they quickly went viral after one of the featured moms, 21-year-old Monica Young, shared her poster online. Haro and Wenske's campaign soon became very real and they now have a When Nurture Calls website that's drawing a lot of attention.
Breast-feeding in public is not illegal in any state although the District of Columbia and 46 states, including Texas, have laws with language specifically allowing women to breast-feed in any public or private location. Haro and Wenske's campaign advocates for strengthening that law. Under the current law, breastfeeding moms aren't protected from harassment and a public facility's right to refuse service to anyone unless it's for reasons of discrimination. As a result, women are often forced to leave public areas and feed their babies in places like bathroom stalls.
Last year Texas House Representative Jessica Farrar introduced HB1706 to expand on the state's current law and protect breastfeeding women from harassment, but unfortunately the bill was dismissed. Farrar is expected to reintroduce HB1706 in January 2015, and Haro and Wenske hope their ad campaign and website will keep the support and momentum going for the upcoming year.
The When Nurture Calls website points out:
If this bill is passed, when mothers are harassed for breastfeeding, they are protected by law and have the right to call
for legal action against any persons or facility.
Haro and Wenske aren't parents, but they told Today Moms, "Nobody's talking about it or raising awareness of this issue other than mothers, and nobody's listening to them."
More breastfeeding stories in the news…


text:
Provides a SMTP Proxy
This enables mail sending from PHP and Perl without a mail server.
(Does not do more then sendmail would. any sendmail wrapper for win could be used. php is configured to work without it)
just unpack into udrive\
udrive\home\admin\program\uniserv.exe udrive\plugins\freesmtp\localsrv.exeto your server_start.bat or the one you use.
thats it. now use the mail() command in PHP.
download: http://bananaacid.de...mtpproxy_Plugin
src.zip 458.9KB 375 downloads (1.0.0 - 2009.07.23 0529)
Note: this supports AVC (automatic version checking).


text:
Here at Coupons.com, we're always looking for a product that will give you the most bang for your buck. And in the springtime, we're focused on creating beauty regimens that will put a little pep in our step. Enter the Olay Fresh Effects Dew Over. This hydrating gel moisturizer will give your skin 24 hours of hydration. It's practically beauty in an instant!
Before you apply makeup in the morning, start your day with this gel that glides on like a normal moisturizer but leaves your face feeling awakened. Don't worry about it clogging your pores either as it's completely oil free. The main ingredient in the Olay Fresh Effect Dew Over is water. Water-based beauty products are the best when your skin starts to feel dry from the spring and summer heat.
Other notable ingredients are white tea and honeysuckle. How fun is that? These ingredients invigorate your skin. To get the most out of your Olay Fresh Effects Dew Over, be sure to moisturize in the morning and at night before you go to bed. Remember that our bodies rejuvenate while we sleep, so it's the best time for our face to soak up the moisture.
Get the Olay Fresh Effects Dew Over at your local beauty store anywhere from $12 to $15. But before you shop, check out our great deals on Olay products to get your hands on the Dew Over or any other Olay items that interest you.


text:
Get gun facts straight
Reading the September 23, 2004 Hook ["Cocked: Locals react to lifted gun ban"], I find it amazing how ignorant people are about what was really covered by the Assault Weapons Ban. Even more disturbing to me is how ignorant the Charlottesville police chief is on the subject.
Assault weapons are capable of full automatic fire. Automatic weapons have been severely restricted since 1934. The assault rifle ban didn't have anything to do with automatic weapons. It banned some semi-automatic guns (one shot per trigger pull) with certain cosmetic appearances and high capacity magazines.
Basically, guns that looked dangerous were banned. The guns banned aren't any different in function from the rifle that people use to plunk cans at the rifle range. It would make more sense to ban red sports cars and leave black ones legal since everybody knows red sports cars are more dangerous. See how stupid it sounds placed in another context?
Full automatic-capable assault weapons were used in the infamous "California incident." Those guns were illegal then and are still illegal. The police chief mentions Columbine where pistols and shotguns were used, not so-called assault rifles. The guns were used only after the planned propane bombs in the cafeteria didn't work. Should we ban propane tanks?
I would like to see the terrorists' "well documented plans to buy assault weapons in America." Why would terrorists want to buy a semiautomatic gun here in America? In Afghanistan for $20 they can buy a true full automatic weapon, or rocket-propelled grenades in Iraq. Smuggling them into the USA would be easy. Look at all the drugs coming over our borders.
The bottom line is the assault weapon ban was a feel-good law that accomplished nothing. The government couldn't produce any statistics that can prove they stopped any crime. Any change was less than the error factor of the studies.
Brian Weidman


text:
The time now is Thu Oct 17, 2019 11:40 am
|View unanswered posts
|Last Post
|The Clubhouse
| General Discussions
If it doesn't fit in any of the other sections, put it here.
| Mon Feb 08, 2016 7:04 am
|Pro Business Forums
|Pro Tech Forums
|Show and Tell
|Resource Directory (Help Add Links!)
|Mark all forums read
|All times are GMT
|Who is Online
|Our users have posted a total of 5243 articles
We have 805 registered users
The newest registered user is elsntilat
|In total there are 2 users online :: 0 Registered, 0 Hidden and 2 Guests [ Administrator ] [ Moderator ]
Most users ever online was 148 on Sat Jan 30, 2010 6:15 am
Registered Users: None
|This data is based on users active over the past five minutes
|New posts
|No new posts
|Forum is locked
Powered by phpBB © 2001, 2002 phpBB Group
Charcoal2 Theme © Zarron Media


text:
Canoeing for British Columbians
RCABC Zone Information
About Us
About RCABC
Insurance Info
Policy Summary
Girl Guides, Scouts, etc.
Accident Report Form
Contact Executive Members
Contact Regional Zone Rep
Alternate Zone Reps
Technical and Support Contacts
Executive Insurance
Our Constitution
Harassment Policy
Membership Sign Up
Member Login
Pro Purchase Program
Instructor Members
How to Recertify
Insurance FAQ
Upcoming Courses
Instructor Manual
Instructor Forms
RCABC Course Registration Form
RCABC Course Waiver
Certificates & Manual Order
Evaluation Form
Instructors Online Certificates
Paddler Members
Paddler Membership
Agency Members
Agency Membership
Club Members
New Club Membership Form
Upcoming Courses
Find an Instructor
RCABC Program Overview
Which Course or Certificate is Best for Me?
Personal Skill Development
Teaching, Guiding and Leading Trips
How to Become an Instructor
Canoeing Certification FAQ
RCABC Courses
Canoe Guides
Find a Guide
Become a Guide
Guide Memberships
BC Trip Planning
Canoeing Safety
Safety Docs
RCABC Safety Brochure
TC Guided Excursion
TC Sea Kayak Guide
TC Safe Boating Guide
Cold Water Boot Camp
River Levels & Tides
River Levels
Tide Tables
Weather, Wind & Fire
Wind Forecast
Fire Conditions
Driving & Transport
Forest Service Roads
BC Ferries
Parks, Sites & Trails
Canoeing in BC Parks
BC Marine Trails
Parks Canada
Rec Sites & Trails BC
Trip Checklists
Safety and Personal Gear
Canoe Camping and LNT
Leadership and Emergency
Guidebooks & Maps
BC Guidebook List
Purchase Maps
GeoBC Online Maps
Pics & Video
Photo Gallery
Lake Water Trips
Paddle Conference
BC Canoe Clubs
Renew Club Membership
Apply for Club Membership
Club Trip Sanctioning Guidelines
Club Insurance FAQ
Teachers, Guides, Clubs and Camp Staff
News for Other Affiliates
Canoe Retailers & Camps
CANEWS Newsletter
Newsletters - Archival
Newsletters - 2018
Newsletters - 2019
Support Us
How To Support RCABC
Become a Paddler Member
Become an Agency Member
Paddle Conference
Voyageur Cooperative Event
Lakewater Skills
Tandem Canoe
Trying out the SUP
Guiding Information
Poling Lessons
SUP Lessons
Great Food
Solo Practice
Lets go Boating
Our Wonderful Organizer
Learning the Ropes
The AGM Meeting
Camp Kawkawa
Lets talk it Over
Paddle Conference
Lets talk it Over
Camp Kawkawa
The AGM Meeting
Learning the Ropes
Back to top


text:
Mikheil Saakashvili: Lessons From the Putin Wars
Georgia's former president, who has seen first-hand the sort of trouble the Kremlin is causing in Ukraine, on what to do about Moscow's threat.
Between barricades of tires and impromptu memorials to the victims of Ukraine's revolution, Mikheil Saakashvili stops to pose for pictures and shake hands. "You showed us how to fight Russia," says a gray-haired man in a camouflage jacket, embracing him on Institutska Street, a front line in last week's climactic clashes in the capital.


text:
Public Health Honcho
Olivia Thompson, public health game changer
In addition to teaching in the College of Charleston's new Public Health Program, Professor Olivia Thompson – a 1999 alumna – is involved in a wide range of initiatives, from establishing a farm-to-school program that currently spans Charleston's tri-county area (it will ultimately be statewide) to helping to introduce the College's new tobacco-free policy.
To support her work in these areas, Thompson has helped secure significant grant funding from such sources as Boeing and the Centers for Disease Control. "When I came to the College to teach, my goal was to educate the next generation of public health leaders, and also create programs, policies and initiatives designed to prevent and control chronic diseases such as cancers, heart disease and stroke, diabetes and obesity. Admittedly, these goals are ambitious, but we've assembled some genuinely committed partners, including public health students at the College."
One such individual is, Natasha Pavlovich, a 2013 graduate in public health. Pavlovich participated in a year-long fellowship (funded through Boeing's support of the farm-to-school initiative) that gave her excellent preparation for graduate study. "As a public health fellow," Pavlovich explained, "I've had the opportunity to develop a keen awareness of the impact of experiential learning on children's nutritional, behavioral and cognitive health. That background will help me better execute my future role as a public health professional bent on improving community health through school-based interventions."
In the meantime, Thompson is charging ahead on a variety of other initiatives that seek to improve public health systems at both the state and local levels. Through her work, she's helping to make South Carolina a healthier and more economically viable state.


text:
The Shuar tribes in Ecuador have for centuries used native plants to induce religious intoxication and to discipline recalcitrant children. By comparison, most North Americans know little about the mood-altering potential of the wild vegetation around them. And those who think they know something on this subject are often dangerously ignorant. Over a three-week period in 1983, for example, 22 Marines wanting to get high were hospitalized because they ate too many seeds of the jimsonweed plant (Datura stramonium), which they found growing wild near their base, Camp Pendleton in southern California.
A dozen seeds of jimsonweed contain about 1 gram of atropine, 10 grams of which can cause nausea, severe agitation, dilation of pupils, hallucinations, headache and delirium. Tribal groups in South America refer to datura plants as the "evil eagles." Of approximately 150 hallucinogenic plants that are routinely consumed around the world, those with atropine have the most pernicious reputation - something these Marines discovered the hard way.
Toxicity Profiles
The easier way to learn about the relation between the quantity of a substance taken and the resulting level of physiological impairment is through careful laboratory study. The first example of such an exercise, in 1927, used rodents. Research toxicologist John Trevan published an influential paper that reported the use of more than 900 mice to assess the lethality of, among other things, cocaine. As he and others have since found, a substance that is tolerated or even beneficial in small quantities often has harmful effects at higher levels. The amount of a substance that produces a beneficial effect in 50 percent of a group of animals is called the median effective dose. The quantity that produces mortality in 50 percent of a group of animals is termed the median lethal dose.
Laboratory tests with animals can give a general picture of the potency of a substance, but generalizing experimental results from, say, mice to humans is always suspect. Thus toxicologists also use two other sources of information. The first is survey data collected from poison-control centers, hospital emergency departments and coroners' offices. Another consists of published clinical and forensic reports of fatalities or near-fatalities.
But these sources, like animal studies, have their limitations. Simply tallying the number of people who die or who show up at emergency rooms is, by itself, meaningless because the number of such incidents will be influenced by the total number of people using a particular substance, something that is impossible to know. For example, atropine is more toxic than alcohol, but more deaths will be reported for alcohol than for atropine because so many more people get drunk than ingest jimsonweed. Furthermore, most overdose fatalities involve the use of two or more substances (usually including alcohol), situations for which the overall toxicity is largely unknown. In short: When psychoactive substances are combined, all bets are off.
How then does one gauge the relative risks of different recreational drugs? One way is to consider the ratio of effective dose to lethal dose. For example, a normally healthy 70-kilogram (154-pound) adult can achieve a relaxed affability from approximately 33 grams of ethyl alcohol. This effective dose can come from two 12-ounce beers, two 5-ounce glasses of wine or two 1.5-ounce shots of 80-proof vodka. The median lethal dose for such an adult is approximately 330 grams, the quantity contained in about 20 shots of vodka. A person who consumes that much (10 times the median effective dose), taken within a few minutes on an empty stomach, risks a lethal reaction. And plenty of people have died this way.
As far as toxicity goes, such deaths are quite telling. Indeed, autopsy reports from cases of fatal overdose (whether from alcohol or some other substance) provide key information linking death and drug consumption. But coroners are generally hard-pressed to determine the size of the dose because significant redistribution of a drug often occurs after death, typically from tissues of solid organs (such as the liver) into associated blood vessels. As a result, blood samples may show different concentrations at different times after death. Even if investigators had a valid way to measure the concentration of a lethal drug in a decedent's blood, they would still need to work backward to make a retrospective estimate of the quantity of the drug consumed. Although the approximate time of death is often known, the time the drug was taken and the rate at which it was metabolized are not so easily established. Lots of guesswork is typically involved. Obviously, people who want clean answers should not seek information from corpses.
Safety Comparison
Despite these difficulties, it is evident that there are striking differences among psychoactive substances with respect to the lethality of a given quantity. The way a substance is absorbed is also a critical factor. The common routes of consumption, from the least toxic to the most toxic (in general), are: eating or drinking a substance, depositing it inside the nostril, breathing or smoking it, and injecting it into a vein with a hypodermic syringe. So, for example, smoking methamphetamine (as is done with the increasingly popular illicit drug "crystal meth") is more dangerous than ingesting it.
Once a drug enters the body, physiological reactions are determined by many factors, such as absorption into various tissues and the rates of elimination and metabolism. Individuals vary enormously in how they metabolize different substances. One person's sedative can be another person's poison. This variability alone introduces unavoidable ambiguities in estimating effective and lethal doses. Still, the wide range between different substances suggests that they can be rank-ordered with reasonable confidence. One can be quite certain, for example, that the risk of death from ingesting psilocybin mushrooms is less than from injecting heroin.
The most toxic recreational drugs, such as GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate) and heroin, have a lethal dose less than 10 times their typical effective dose. The largest cluster of substances has a lethal dose that is 10 to 20 times the effective dose: These include cocaine, MDMA (methylenedioxymethamphetamine, often called "ecstasy") and alcohol. A less toxic group of substances, requiring 20 to 80 times the effective dose to cause death, include Rohypnol (flunitrazepam or "roofies") and mescaline (peyote cactus). The least physiologically toxic substances, those requiring 100 to 1,000 times the effective dose to cause death, include psilocybin mushrooms and marijuana, when ingested. I've found no published cases in the English language that document deaths from smoked marijuana, so the actual lethal dose is a mystery. My surmise is that smoking marijuana is more risky than eating it but still safer than getting drunk.
Alcohol thus ranks at the dangerous end of the toxicity spectrum. So despite the fact that about 75 percent of all adults in the United States enjoy an occasional drink, it must be remembered that alcohol is quite toxic. Indeed, if alcohol were a newly formulated beverage, its high toxicity and addiction potential would surely prevent it from being marketed as a food or drug. This conclusion runs counter to the common view that one's own use of alcohol is harmless. That mistaken impression arises for several reasons.
First, the more frequently we experience an event without a negative outcome, the lower our level of perceived danger. For example, most of us have not had a life-threatening traffic accident; thus, we feel safer in a car than in an airplane, although we are 10 to 15 times more likely to die in an automobile accident than in a plane crash. Similarly, most of us have not had a life-threatening experience with alcohol, yet statistics show that every year about 300 people die in the United States from an alcohol overdose, and for at least twice that number of overdose deaths, alcohol is considered a contributing cause.
Second, having a sense of control over a risky situation reduces fear. People drinking alcoholic beverages believe that they have reasonably good control of the quantity they intend to consume. Control of the dose of alcohol is indeed easier than with many natural or illicit substances where the active ingredients are not commercially standardized. Furthermore, alcohol is often consumed in a beverage that dilutes the alcohol to a known degree.
Consider the following: The stomach capacity of an average adult is about 1 liter; therefore, a person is unlikely to overdose after drinking beer containing 5 percent alcohol. Compare this situation to GHB (a depressant originally marketed in health food stores as a sleep aid), where stomach capacity does not place much of a limit on consumption because the effective dose is only one or two teaspoonfuls. No wonder that more than 50 percent of novice users of GHB have experienced an overdose that included involuntary loss of consciousness.
Another reason that alcohol is often thought to be safe is that popular media do not routinely report fatalities from alcohol overdoses. Deaths are usually considered newsworthy when they involve a degree of novelty. Thus a fatality caused by LSD or MDMA is thought to be more interesting than one caused by alcohol.
Other Ways to Invite Death
A simpleminded look at the ratio of effective to lethal doses ignores many complications, some of which are well recognized, some rather subtle. Take, for example, the fact that danger generally increases with repetitive consumption. High blood levels of a drug, without rest periods between use, tend to heighten risk, because the affected organs do not have sufficient time to recover. Studies of MDMA use, for example, show that relatively small repeated doses result in disproportionately large increases of MDMA in blood plasma. Cocaine is the substance that induces the highest rate of repetitive consumption as a result of mood change. Heroin and alcohol come in second and third. Also, the tendency of a user to take a "booster" dose prematurely is greater with substances that require an hour or more to provide the full psychological effect - during the interim the user often assumes that the original dose was not sufficiently potent. This phenomenon routinely occurs with dextromethorphan (found in cough medicines), GHB and MDMA.
Overdose quantities that are based on acute toxicity also do not take into account the probability that an individual will become addicted. This probability can be cast as a drug's capture ratio: Of the people who sample a particular substance, what portion will become physiologically or psychologically dependent on the drug for some period of time? Heroin and methamphetamine are the most addictive by this measure. Cocaine, pentobarbital (a fast-acting sedative), nicotine and alcohol are next, followed by marijuana and possibly caffeine. Some hallucinogens - notably LSD, mescaline and psilocybin - have little or no potential for creating dependence.
Finally, a comparison of overdose fatalities does not take into account cognitive impairments and risky or aggressive behaviors that sometimes follow drug use. And as most people are well aware, a substantial proportion of violent confrontations, rapes, suicides, automobile accidents and AIDS-related illnesses are linked to alcohol intoxication.
Despite the health risks and social costs, consciousness-altering chemicals have been used for centuries in almost all cultures. So it would be unrealistic to expect that all types of recreational drug use will suddenly cease. Self-management of these substances is extremely difficult, yet modern Western societies have not, in general, developed positive, socially sanctioned rituals as a means of regulating the use of some of the less hazardous recreational drugs. I would argue that we need to do that. The science of toxicology may provide one step in that direction, by helping to teach members of our society what a lot of tribal people already know.
source Robert S. Gable, American Scientist , 12th June 2006
the taxicity of recreational drugs
By mopsie · Jun 15, 2006 ·
To make a comment simply sign up and become a member!


text:
Jiang Wen and Zhou Yun Brand Ambassadors for Greater China
Achieve classics with maestro, reflect beauty with jasmine
Shanghai, China – August 31st, 2011 – To celebrate the 35th anniversary of the RAYMOND WEIL brand, Mr. Heinrich Schellenberg, Consulate General of Switzerland in Shanghai, Mr. Olivier Bernheim, President and CEO of RAYMOND WEIL, Mr. Elie Bernheim, Vice president of RAYMOND WEIL, Mr. Helmuth Hennig, Group Managing Director of Jebsen & Co. Ltd and Mark Bishop, Group Director of Jebsen & Co. Ltd, attended the "RAYMOND WEIL New Advertising Inauguration & jasmine Collection Launch Ceremony". The event, which took place in the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Pudong, Shanghai, also announced the appointment of Mr. Jiang Wen and Ms. Zhou Yun as Brand Ambassadors for Greater China, together with the launches of the new jasmine collection and of the new model from the now famous maestro collection – the maestro Phase de Lune.
The grand ball room of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel had been decorated as a concert hall for this big occasion. Performed as a concert, the whole event was composed of three chapters. The first one, "Life of the Brand" was a homage to the RAYMOND WEIL Brand. The second one called "Jasmine's blooming" announced the appearance of Zhou Yun, the RAYMOND WEIL female ambassador for Greater China and the launch of the jasmine collection. The third part, "Melody of the crown" was dedicated to the RAYMOND WEIL male ambassador for Greater China – Jiang Wen. The whole concert was conducted by the famous Shanghai Symphony.
About the Brand Ambassadors for Greater China:
RAYMOND WEIL, an independent family-run company, is the first watch brand to have a renowned couple of artists as ambassadors – Jiang Wen and Zhou Yun. This prestigious couple embodies a value that is dear to both the Brand and Chinese tradition – family.
Mr. Jiang, a world-famous actor, director and playwright, earned his well-deserved reputation with In the Heat of the Sun, a film he both adapted and directed. The film's lead actor, Xia Yu, was awarded the 'Best Actor' prize at the 51st Venice International Film Festival and 8th Singapore International Film Festival. In 2011, for Let the Bullets Fly, he was honored as 'Best Actor in Mainland', 'Best Director' and 'Best Film' in the Global Chinese Top List and 15th Asian Influential Ceremony.
Mr. Jiang, whose talent perfectly embodies the RAYMOND WEIL pursuit of excellence, said: "I deeply appreciate RAYMOND WEIL as dedicated patron of the arts. As brand ambassador, I hope to help Raymond Weil achieve its peak."
Ms. Zhou, the other RAYMOND WEIL ambassador for Greater China, is as graceful as jasmine. In 2011, with her extraordinary performance in Let the Bullets Fly, she was honored 'Best Actress in Mainland' in the Global Chinese Top List and 15th Asian Influential Ceremony. In Golden Wedding, her impressive performance won her Best Actress' in the 1st Asia Rainbow Awards.
Ms. Zhou said: "I greatly admire the brand philosophy of RAYMOND WEIL: be faithful to both tradition and innovation. I am proud to be a part of a brand with such a spirit."
"Jiang Wen's talent and Zhou Yun's beauty represent the qualities of RAYMOND WEIL: Classic, Everlasting and Independent," said Mr Olivier Bernheim.
About RAYMOND WEIL:
RAYMOND WEIL, a family founded and operated Geneva-based watchmaker, has enjoyed celebrated status in the Swiss luxury watchmaking industry since its establishment in 1976. The brand is imbued with a deep association with art and a commitment to the craftsmanship of high-quality watchmaking. RAYMOND WEIL, with its dynamic vitality and pioneering spirit, is regarded as one of the fastest growing watch brands in the world.
Music has always been at the centre of the RAYMOND WEIL universe, with musical connotations attached to the names of its collections, such as parsifal from Wilhelm Richard Wagner, nabucco from Giuseppe Verdi and don giovanni from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The musical themes stem from the brand's designing of unique timepieces for international artists and its partnerships with world-renowned music competitions.
The RAYMOND WEIL watch collections, with their modern design, are unique and stylish. The men's product line is emphasized by the mechanics of a watch, while the ladies styles are highlighted by their dignity and grace. Each collection is a beacon to Swiss watchmaking ingenuity, utilizing breakthrough materials and innovations.
In 2011, RAYMOND WEIL launches the new jasmine collection, whose delicate style is like the beauty of a flower, and serves as a gift to ladies all over the world. The company also unveils the maestro Phase de Lune model, displaying a perfect combination of creativity and tradition.


text:
copyright, Simon Harsent.
With the Hollywood remake of the A-Team, Mr. T is back in vogue (did he ever really leave?). This typically moody Harsent portrait was created with 2 lights.
Camera: Canon 1Ds Mark II with a 24-70mm lens, set on a tripod 8 feet back. Shot at 1/125, f8, ISO 100.
Lighting: Simon's portraiture is usually dark and lit with an elegant simplicity. The key light is a medium octabank at f8, eight feet to camera left and 9 feet high. A seven inch gridded reflector with a full CT blue gel at f5.6 (-1 stop) is behind Mr. T to camera right and head level.
Comments: It wasn't easy to track down T for the shoot as he's been hiding for years on a remote island with the ability to move itself. And in deference to the current economic conditions, he willingly removed much of his trademark gold and insisted that one of the PAs keep it. As long as she didn't sell it on eBay.


text:
Pathophysiology & Molecular Pharmacology
The laboratories in this section aim to elucidate pathophysiologic mechanisms in type 2 diabetes, including insulin resistance and β-cell dysfunction, and to exploit this knowledge to create new and better treatments.
Studies conducted by members of the section identified inflammation as both a pathological mediator in insulin resistance and a potential target for its reversal. Investigators practice both bench to bedside and bedside to bench approaches in most aspects of their research. From the clinical perspective, these studies use a form of the anti-inflammatory drug salicylate (salsalate) to treat patients with type 2 diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance, or cardiovascular disease.
These studies are being conducted in collaboration with Allison Goldfine, Joslin's head of Clinical Research. Parallel basic science studies are being conducted in order to determine how salicylate lowers blood glucose and protects against risk for atherosclerosis.
Several of these have pointed to new roles for the immune system in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes. Other basic studies in the section range from structural biology to epigenetics affected by salicylate and an ongoing collaboration with the Blackwell lab using C. elegans to help define salicylate mechanisms of action.
Recent "highpoints":
- Showed for the first time that T lymphocytes, and in particular, regulatory T cells, have heretofore unappreciated roles in adipose tissue inflammation and insulin resistance. Nat Med 2009.
- Showed that a surprisingly high grade inflammation occurs in the remnant adipose tissue of lipodystrophic mice, but this is unrelated to insulin resistance. PNAS 2010.
- The TINSAL-T2D clinical trial shows that salsalate, a pro-drug form of salicylate, improves blood glucose and lipids in patients with type 2 diabetes. Annals Intern Med 2010.
Pathophysiology & Molecular Pharmacology
Page last updated: October 16, 2019


text:
Days Inn & Suites Warman Legends Centre
175 Clubhouse Blvd East Warman, Warman, SK S4K 4S0
Hosting private swimming lessons and baby swimming lessons, K & K Swim School's Days Inn & Suites Warman Legends Centre facility is located in Warman, SK.
+ Entering the facility
To get to our Days Inn & Suites Warman Legends Centre pool facility, enter the building and proceed straight to the front desk to recieve a key card. Next, make a left down and proceed straight down the hallway and the pool will be located on the left hand side. When inside, be sure to sign in to the client sign in sheet.
+ Facility Rules
*Food, beverages or any breakable items are NOT permitted in the pool area. Please dispose of any diapers before leaving the pool area.
*Outdoor footwear is NOT permitted on the pool deck.
*The pool is to be used by students only. Each student must wait for their lesson to swim.
+ Facility Features
*Water kept at a comforting 85 degrees
*Max pool Depth: 4ft
*Chlorinated pool
*Clean Pool with clear visibilty
*Hot Tub
+ Seating
Families and caregivers may seat on the lounge chairs located on the sides of the pool facility.
175 Clubhouse Blvd East Warman, Warman, SK S4K 4S0
Our Team will be in touch with more information as soon as possible via email/phone.
By submitting this form, I agree to receive emails from K & K Swim School. My consent can be withdrawn at any time using the links provided in every email.


text:
Spirits of the Forest
"Once an age, a mythic wind lifts the veil between the spirit world and ours. Whimsical seraphs, drawn to the vigor of an ancient forest, descend through clouds to, once again, take up their centennial game."
In Spirits of the Forest, players represent the four elements that nourish the forces of nature. Up to four players compete to acquire the most spirit symbols, as they score nature points for having the majority of each spirit. The winner is the player with the most nature points at the end of the game.
- Bringing Spirits of the Forest to reality will only be possible with your support.
- Make the game better for everyone. Stretch goals will enhance the final quality and content of the game, the more we fund, the more we can upgrade.
- Deluxe and Collector's editions are Kickstarter Exclusive games. It won't be possible to get them after Kickstarter on pledge manager or distribution.
- Get more value of what you pledge and a competitive discounted and tracked shipping rate.
Both Retail and Deluxe will include multi-language rulebooks in English, French, German and Spanish.
For the Italian version of the game, please pledge towards our partner, GateOnGames! Dungeon dice website: https://thundergryph.com/ItalianSOTF
Risks and challenges
With any project, many variables need to be managed. It is a challenge to create a game, manufacture it and then ship to the warehouse, but the most important of all, fulfill our backers. After what we learnt from our first three projects, specially Tao Long, we feel confident and prepared to manage this project in the best way possible.
To avoid any delays, we decided to prepare the game before the campaign. All the assets are already in hands of our manufacturer and we should receive a final pre-production copy of the Deluxe Edition during the campaign. The retail edition is already in our hands and ready to be printed. We will make sure to start mass-production as soon as the campaign is over.
These are our fulfillment partners for this campaign:
- VFI will deliver the games to all our Asian backers
- VR Distribution will deliver the games in Australia and New Zealand.
- Quarter Master Logistics will deliver the games to our backers in the US.
- ThunderGryph together with TCG Factory will deliver the games to all our European Backers.
- Snakes & Lattes will deliver the games to our Canadian Backers.
- Any "rest of the world" backers will be fulfilled by VFI, ThunderGryph Games and HappyShops.
We are consistently monitoring the project and working hard to remove as much risk as we can from you and bear with it ourselves, If you have any questions about the project development please don't hesitate to ask. We are striving to be as transparent as possible.Learn about accountability on Kickstarter
Funding period
- (24 days)


text:
SEATTLE, Jan. 10, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- PhaseRx, Inc., an RNA therapeutics company, today announced the appointment of Michael Houston, Ph.D., as its Vice President, Therapeutics Development.
(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140110/SF44129LOGO)
Dr. Houston brings more than two decades of experience in the manufacturing and development of peptide and oligonucleotide-based therapeutics to PhaseRx. He has directed numerous programs ranging from research to GMP manufacture of clinical trials materials, including nanoparticle-based delivery vehicles for siRNAs. In this new position, Dr. Houston will lead PhaseRx's therapeutics program, which focuses on the advancement of its SMARTT Polymer Technology® mRNA nanoparticles.
"Mike is a great addition to the PhaseRx team as we focus on the advancement of our SMARTT Polymer Technology RNA programs into clinical development," said Robert Overell, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer at PhaseRx. "Mike's experience in the synthesis, manufacture and production of RNA therapeutics including nanoparticle-based formulations, will accelerate our efforts to apply SMARTT technology to address the significant unmet treatment need in orphan liver diseases."
Dr. Houston joins PhaseRx from Marina Biotech where he served as Vice President, Chemistry and Formulations and focused on the development of siRNAS and single stranded oligonucleotides. He has also served at Ascent Therapeutics as Vice President, Preclinical Chemistry and CMC; at MDRNA, Inc. as Vice President, Chemistry & Formulations; and at Nastech Pharmaceuticals as Senior Director, Chemistry and Formulations. Dr. Houston received a Ph.D. in bio-organic chemistry and a B.Sc. with honours in chemistry from the University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
PhaseRx's SMARTT Polymer Technology (SMARTT) mediates endosome escape and mRNA delivery into cytoplasm, overcoming the key stumbling block to the delivery of mRNA drugs into cells. SMARTT has been developed into an industrialized system that is well-tolerated in small and large animal models, does not induce innate immunity and provides robust, scalable manufacture. PhaseRx is evaluating several disease targets for SMARTT and will be selecting its lead program in 2014.
About PhaseRx
PhaseRx is privately held RNA therapeutics company developing treatments for orphan liver disease. The Company is utilizing its proprietary SMARTT Polymer Technology®, which offers the ability to deliver messenger RNA therapeutics predictably to selected tissues in vivo, thereby unlocking the value of mRNA as a new therapeutic modality. PhaseRx is headquartered in Seattle, Wash. For more information, visit www.phaserx.com.
Julie Rathbun
Rathbun Communications
|SOURCE PhaseRx, Inc.
Copyright©2012 PR Newswire.
All rights reserved


text: I have a guy who called and wants to get a beek to put bees on his blackeberry farm next spring. What should a guy charge? It is about 30 miles south of me. How many trips do you expect one would need to make? and How long is the bloom on Blackeberries?


text:
S8 E09 Dark Was the Night
As Henry coughs up blood, Owen assures Teddy that they will take care of her husband. Henry is bleeding in his lungs and trachea thanks to a new tumor. Taking the thing out with a laser is the best option, but Richard's never done it that way. Teddy thinks they should consider a new surgeon. More on that in a moment.
Callie informs a spinal fusion patient named Laura that she needs to take things slow during her recovery. That's not easy when you're a mom to an active young boy. Laura is heading home with her family when something goes wrong with her heart. Teddy needs to operate. She doesn't want to leave Henry, but Laura will surely die if she doesn't step in.
Teddy wants Cristina to do the laser tumor removal on Henry. Everyone thinks it'll be too much pressure on her, so they decide to drape the patient's face to conceal his identity. Owen reluctantly agrees as he convinces his somewhat cavalier and completely oblivious wife into doing the surgery.
Teddy and April discover that Laura's heart is spouting blood because a screw that came loose from her spinal fusion surgery is shredding it. Jackson is the one who performed the initial procedure while Callie supervised. Actually, she wasn't watching him all that closely. Callie tells Bailey that she was reading a magazine at the time. Now she has a first class case of the guilts.
Things go south during Henry's surgery. The laser option is out, so Richard takes over. But things go from bad to worse. Cristina can't understand why such extreme measures are being taken. There's no way they'll ever be able to get the heart beating again. The patient is gone and Cristina still has no idea it's Henry.
Shock and devastation set in the instant Owen gives Cristina the news. But he can't tell Teddy about Henry until she finishes the bypass on her patient. He knows she'll never forgive him for that. Richard says her husband died on their watch. She's never going to forgive any of them.
Meredith gets the call she's been dreading. All indications are that they are not getting Zola. She tells Derek that she doesn't want another baby. Speaking of babies, a newborn is in trouble at a hospital that's not equipped to deal with her medical issues. In short, the child has a condition that makes it difficult to eat and breathe.
With Arizona, Jackson and Mark busy tending to a kid who was attacked by a dog, Meredith and Alex hit the road to pick up the baby. They manage to get the air flowing in the infant's lungs, but they need to get her out of there. Meredith convinces the baby's worried mom that she'll take care of her child as they head out of the hospital on a stormy night.
The ambulance breaks down while traveling along a narrow mountain road. Before the driver goes for help, he warns Meredith and Alex to get out of the rig, as they are stuck on a hilly curve. The vehicle is filled with oxygen tanks. If they get hit, it'll explode. The baby is in an incubator, so Meredith and Alex would have to leave her alone. That's not gonna happen.
Meredith and Alex are on speaker phone with the hospital. Arizona gives medical instructions while others in the room want them to get out of the ambulance. Alex wants Meredith to scram. There's no reason both of them should stay. They argue back and forth. Then…CRASH!
Meredith and Alex are tossed around the inside of the rig. Something hit them from behind. Everyone back home wonders what happened as the phone goes dead. Meredith is cut on the head, but both she and Alex are in reasonably good shape.
They mobilize the baby with an oxygen tank and an IV. The rain has stopped, but a horrific scene greets Meredith and Alex as they step out of the rig. Motionless bodies are strewn across the road. A mangled vehicle rests on its side nearby. All this in the middle of nowhere.


text:
hi, i am planning on running an internaltional open this weekend (05.25.2012 - 05.28.2012) in palmont with these four races:
welcome to palmont
chinatown run
construction route
old quarter
only multi-player races will be considered. you may race as many times as you want those 4 days and your best times will be considered.
if you wish to participate, please reply to the thread with your driver name and i will aggregate your times in the results.
good luck,


text:
Knives you can swear by, not at.
Kramer Custom Knives is your source for hard use, handmade knives of the finest quality and craftsmanship. Each knife is ground and crafted by hand. If you see a knife you would like to order, or have a design you would like custom built, email me using the contact information above. Thanks


text:
Braised Short Ribs with Star Anise Bay Leaf and Orange Zest
- Serves 4-6
- Brian Streeter
- Pairs well with:
- Zinfandel, Red Hills Lake County
Chef Brian Streeter shares a perfect recipe to prepare for a cool fall day.
These slow-cooked short ribs are tender and deeply flavorful. Enjoy with our Cakebread Cellars Zinfandel.
4 lbs. short ribs, bone in
2 T. vegetable oil
1 carrot, diced
1 onion, diced
1 stalk celery, diced
1 T. tomato paste
2 c. red wine
2 c. beef broth
1 piece star anise
3 strips orange zest
2 bay leaves
salt and pepper
Preheat oven to 350°F. Season short ribs with salt and pepper. In a wide, heavy bottom stainless steel saucepan, brown short ribs over high heat with vegetable oil, until brown on all sides. Remove from the pan, add the vegetables and sauté for 5 minutes to carmelize. Stir in the tomato paste. Deglaze with the red wine and reduce by half. Add the beef broth, star anise, orange zest and bay leaves. Return the short ribs to the pan, lower the heat to a simmer, cover and place in the middle of the oven. Cook for 3 hours or until beef is tender and is pulling away from the bone. Remove beef and strain broth into a saucepan. Skim the top of broth of fat and reduce to a light sauce consistency. Pour the sauce back over the short ribs and serve with potato puree, noodles or your favorite accompaniment.


text:
Berlin bound: Sproule and Curreri head for Europe
Over the past decade, folk musicians Paul Curreri and Devon Sproule have been key figures in the Charlottesville music scene, but after a late August farewell concert, the married couple will move to Berlin.
"It felt like a good career move, to not just grow careers, but to make money, which is hard when you're going back and forth," says Sproule, who grew up in Louisa and began busking on the downtown mall as a teen. Curreri moved here 11 years ago and quickly caught on as a singer-songwriter. Despite their history of U.S. success, Germany calls on September 6.
"There have been a fair numbers of years where our careers have just primarily existed overseas," says Curreri.
The increased success in Europe, and the UK in particular, stems from both artistic and business roots, as neither musician slides easily into a single genre.
"We have trouble with house concerts or folkie things [in the US]," says Sproule. "It's really fun to play over there where you can play the folk shows, but you can also play a little theater of 20-year-olds who are sitting on the floor and they're blogging about it the next day."
Curreri also says all that blogging has really helped.
"The territories are so much smaller," he says, "and the access to national media is much easier. Because the territories are smaller, it's easier word-of-mouth-wise."
Curreri and Sproule regularly manage to get on national radio when touring Europe, and both artists credit their UK-based label Tin Angel ("a close friend backed up by this army of 20-year-old webheads," Sproule says) with providing them strong support, a stark contrast to their US experience.
"We don't have a team," says Sproule. "It was becoming more and more difficult to justify driving to Madison, Wisconsin for $150."
But even that hadn't been enough to drive them overseas until now. Sproule says, "The reason for me that we're going is that there's so much going on for us over there right now, but if we don't make the most of it, who knows what will be happening in just a few years."
For now, they speak happily of European tours where they have a proper backing band and tour support. "You have a team," says Sproule, "that you are a valuable enough part of that it's worthwhile for everyone to work for those gigs."
"It's hard to get work in this business," she adds. And getting financial stability from the craft you love opens up whole worlds of possibilities elsewhere, musical and otherwise.
"That's not to be taken lightly," says Curreri. "That's the way I want to do it. I wouldn't be happy achieving those same goals being a middle school teacher."
Paul Curreri and Devon Sproule perform at the Jefferson Theater on 8/27. $15-$17, 8pm. Seriously, guys, this is it.Read more on: Bummerdevon sproulepaul curreri


text:
It was less than a year ago that we reported a serious crash at the bottom of Vancouver's Cambie Street after a utility pole in seemingly the worst place split an Audi in half without killing anyone — the latest accident in the same spot where more than a dozen cars have crashed since the early '90s.
Therefore it wasn't a surprise when I woke up this morning to find an email from the man whose family owns the lawn where so many cars have ended up saying "it happened again."
Eerily, it was an another Audi sedan split the same way around another pole. The only difference this time is that one of the passengers didn't survive.
Speed was likely a factor in the crash of the Audi A6, which sent the 26-year-old driver to the hospital and claimed the life of his 26-year-old female passenger according to reports.
Douglas H., whose family owns the house where so much carnage has taken place, says it was an awful scene.
"It was a pretty gruesome in that you can see the tarp the cops used to cover the victim and her blood on the pavement," he said an email. "[The] Driver's lone shoe laying in the middle of the road, too."
Dramatic fatal crashes are so sadly common that we rarely report on them here, but this particular street seems to need some attention. According to Douglas, in the last 20 years they've lost three fire hydrants, multiple poles, and had various vehicles end up in their front lawn.
"[It] Makes me wonder why this city doesn't impose some speed reducing measures around this bend or safer lamp posts that aren't build like solid oaks," he said. "There were several other accidents since last year's including an SUV that rolled over but this one was the most striking in that it was another Audi and someone had to lose their life due to excessive speed."
Images from Google Street View appear to show the accidents are occurring at the end of a large curve on Cambie Street. The intersection is downhill in two directions, meaning someone coming at a high rate of speed in the wrong direction could lose control off camber and roll or flip.
Assuming there's a proper speed limit in place, it seems like both a speed-limiting solution and some kind of protective barrier would help. At reasonable speeds there's no obvious reason why someone would crash.


text:
Need for Speed: Most Wanted is the first from the Need for Speed stable to appear on the PS Vita and the transition has managed to retain the excitement of a top class, no holds barred, open world racing game boasting a large range of customizable high performance cars.
Super Gamer Dude
PS Vita
Need For Speed Most Wanted for PS Vita has visually stunning graphics and is basically the same as the consoles versions but now playable on the handheld Vita.
Where to start, first the graphics.
The graphics in this game are amazing, you could think of it as a portable PS3 version, nice and slick and on a par with other top Vita titles. Every inch of detail on the car is there, clearly visible and defined like it should be. Even the sparks flying from a blown tire or a collision are rendered with realism, and the background and scenery are also very well balanced and do not seem repetitive. The buildings have also been created with much detail and the car impacts and racing are about as real as any I have seen.
If I had to criticize the graphical aspect slightly I would say that the intros pixelation could have been improved, and the problem is probably largely due to the fact that the graphics were taken from the original console releases, and perhaps space was an issue. There were other times when there was a little bit of a pixelation problem, mainly during the cutscenes, but apart from that this is one solid game in the graphics department.
The over handling is like any other car game, for me it seemed pretty simple to be able to move the cars during the gameplay, and I had no real issues with the overall controls used in the game.
The multiplayer is where the game really begins to shine. However, unlike the versions released on the consoles where you could play up to 8 people at any given time, there is a restriction on the PlayStation Vita. On the PS Vita you only get to play in stages and you only have a limit of 4 players which can be playing in any given race. This put aside, I had an immense amount of fun just playing with 3 other users. I would imagine the reason for this restriction is that 8 cars on such a small screen would hinder the overall quality and look a little crowded. These small limitations are not really much of a problem.
So there you have it, without a doubt the best by far on the PS Vita in relation to a good old racing game.


text:
WINICK: DARK KNIGHT's OWLS Tie-in Reveals BATMAN-TALON Past
As Newsarama readers learned last week, the Talons who will be featured in May's Batman event "Night of the Owls" are not ordinary assassins.
They're all reanimated corpses from different points in history, which means each Talon has a healing ability — and a completely different point of view.
In May, readers will get to see the "point of view" one Talon in particular in Batman: The Dark Knight #9. Told from the perspective of the most recent Talon who works for the Court of Owls, the issue will reveal that Batman has actually met this Talon before within Batman continuity.
Although the issue is the brainchild of Batman writer Scott Snyder, who wanted this particular Talon's story to be told, it will be written by Judd Winick with art by the title's regular artist, David Finch.
Batman: The Dark Knight #9 will fall just before new writer Gregg Hurwitz comes on board with #10.
As such, Winick told Newsarama he's doing a one-issue story that not only shows the more human side of the villainous Talons, but also plants seeds for stories that will come later in the Batman universe.
The issue also represents the first time readers will see long-time Batman writer Winick teamed with superstar artist Finch, and according to the writer, issue #9's story plays to the dynamic artist's strengths.
In May, Winick is writing three different "Night of the Owls" tie-in issues: Catwoman #9, Batwing #9 and Batman: The Dark Knight #9. (See our interviews with Winick for more details on the Batwing and Catwoman tie-ins.)
Now that we know more about the Talons who will participate in "Night of the Owls," Newsarama asked Winick to clarify what we'll see in his villain-centered single-issue story in Batman: The Dark Knight #9.
Newsarama: Judd, we just had a lengthy interview with Scott Snyder, and he revealed that all the Talons who will show up in "The Night of the Owls" are from different time periods. In your story for Batman: The Dark Knight, what Talon will we meet?
Judd Winick: This Talon is the last one who held the mantle. There have been many Talons, but this is the last one to be the assassin for the Court of Owls. So he has a more recent history.
As it turns out, he has some history with Batman. Formative history. We see his past, and how it affects his present, and specifically, how it affects his "rematch" with Batman. So the idea is that this is a Talon who actually met up with Batman before.
Nrama: So is this another story from Batman's point of view?
Winick: No. The story is from the point of view of the Talon, from the point of view of the assassin.
It's a very human story for these very inhuman characters, these monsters that Scott has created. And Scott and I really like that idea. We like the idea of telling a story about the Talons that make them sympathetic, particularly this one. And it's really interesting to have a story told from the point of view of the Talon. It's something we don't get to see. And it's cool.
We all feel that it's most personal story of all the Talons.
Nrama: You said this is a "rematch." So we're going to see how the Talons might have played a part in Batman's history?
Winick: Exactly. It's steeped in canon, which is really Scott's masterstroke with this entire crossover. He's managed to tap in a little bit, just in this amazing sort of way, that he taps into Batman canon, that it sort of treads into things a little bit without actually upturning the apple cart at all.
And it really feels like it counts. It feels like Batman's past has been added to without pulling anything out or changing anything in a big way. Adding to canon is the best way I can describe it. Scott managed to do that, and this story is a fun way of fleshing that out.
Nrama: What characters show up in the issue?
Winick: Batman's there, and there's Nightwing, Red Robin and Robin in the issue. The gang's all there, as they all work to fight the Talons on this one night.
But this story really is from the point of view of the villain. It's his story.
Nrama: How did you end up getting to tell this story?
Winick: It came about very organically. Scott Snyder, who is creator of this crossover, had this story floating around in the back of head about the origin of the current Talon.I'd already done two tie-in stories for this event that everyone seemed to like, in Batwing and Catwoman. So I was already writing about the Talons in my other books, and we'd already been working on the overall story of "Night of the Owls."
There was an opening provided in Batman: The Dark Knight because of the change that's going on with the writers. So I could come in and tell this one-issue story.
This was a story that Scott wanted to tell. We got together and we talked about it, and I really dug the idea of it. And thankfully, David was available for the issue, as far as the schedule.
Nrama: Even though David's drawing it, it sounds like it's a bit of a one-shot within the series?
Winick: It is somewhat of a stand-alone, in that it could be read on its own, but I will tell you that it spirals off into something else that will be picked up later. There are things in here that plant seeds for something else.
And I think it fits into the idea of the Dark Knight series, because Batman in The Dark Knight is supposed to be a little bit off the beaten path. Yes, these are still stories within continuity, but they're from an alternate point of view. And in this case, this was a story basically from a villain's point of view. So I think it fits with the title.
And it certainly fits with David's art. It's just going to be a gorgeous issue. And it's going to be very powerful.
You know, I actually like it when you can tell a powerful one-issue story. Those really stand out, you know what I mean?
I hear from readers all the time about my one-issue stories. I get people who come up to me at cons and say things like, "you know that one issue you did in Outsiders where Roy gets shot and then there's this issue where it's his first day back at work and he and Dick are sparring and what-not and..."
Nrama: Oh, yeah. That was Outsiders #11. I'll never forget that issue. That was fantastic.
Winick: Wow. Thanks. But yeah, see?
Nrama: Yeah, people remember the one-issue story. It's one of my favorites.
Winick: Yeah, people remember the one-issue story. That's exactly what I mean. It's been years later, and people bring that one up. That was kind of a fill-in issue. I was between artists, so I decided to just do this one issue story.
Another one I hear about is this one-issue story I told after the death of Bruce Wayne where I answer the question, how did Dick and everyone handle the fact that Bruce was dead? It was an issue of Superman/Batman, and people bring that one up to me all the time.
So Batman: The Dark Knight #9 might be a stand-alone issue, but it's a cool story. And it definitely weaves into the overall story of "The Night of the Owls."
Nrama: It's interesting for readers to hear about how this Batman event is being handled, in the New 52 Universe. I think we can't help but listen to see if things have changed from the way crossovers were presented in the past. What do you think of the way they're approaching this crossover, compared to things you've worked on in the Batman universe before?
Winick: I've been writing for superhero comics for about 11 or 12 years at this point, and I've been involved in a lot of crossovers. So I've done some that I thought were fantastic, and I've done others that weren't. I think a lot of us writers would be willing to say that there have been crossovers in the past that were kind of dumped on us. And when that happens, it shows.
Even if someone is building a good story and the decision is made at a late date that everybody has to be involved with it, it can be really disruptive if you're in the middle of a story arc. And depending on how much you have to get involved, it can completely disrupt the flow of the character. It's like "stop the presses! Drop this in there now!" And you're like, "aw, man, but my guys are in space!"
But that's opposed to crossovers I've done in the past where they've been done right. And in those cases, everything is looked at well before. It's planned ahead and you really get a sense as a writer of what you're doing. And then everybody involved can utilize it as part of their story. Not only will their issue hit and feel like it is part of the event, but it becomes a part of the monthly too. It's worked into the overall building story.
That's what we're able to do with this one. With "Night of the Owls," Scott had this in the works since before the New 52 launched, since before September. If you read his comic, this storyline is seeded in the first issue.
So we all knew it was coming and we've been planning toward it. Some books had a big lead-in to it, and others have just a seamless entry into the story. But it all came from the planning.
Nrama: There are also Batman related issues that aren't a part of the crossover, by choice, right?
Winick: Right, right. With a title like Batwoman, the storyline they were doing was such that they just couldn't work the "Night of the Owls" into it. And the attitude was like, OK, then we won't do it. I think it says a lot for DC that, despite the fact Batwoman is one of their best-sellers, they're not just forcing that comic into this crossover to grab some money. They're following the story.
That's been the attitude for a long time, actually. And as you can tell, I prefer it that way.
And obviously, I work well in that atmosphere, because not only have I found a way to make "Night of the Owls" work with my stories in Batwing and Catwoman, but I've come on board for this issue of Batman: The Dark Knight.And Catwoman is really not a part of Batman day-in, day-out. She's a bad guy. She's a thief. So Batman's not going to call her because there's trouble. It's not like she's going to be part of the gang who battles the bad guys. So she had to be brought into "The Night of the Owls" in a way that felt organic and interesting creatively. And it worked. I was able to work up to it.
With Batwing, we had just come to the point where he just happens to be in Gotham. So it was super good timing for that comic.
With Dark Knight, this story was just sitting there and it had no place, it had nowhere to fit. But it was a great story that we really wanted to tell. It's just this really terrific perspective.
And having such a powerhouse of David drawing it — I've been getting pages and it's like Christmas every time it comes. He's such a powerful artist.
Nrama: You haven't worked with him before, have you? I'm trying to think back to your titles at Marvel.
Winick: No, no, no. So I was absolutely thrilled to get the chance to work with him.
As I've been working on this issue, I've been playing to his strengths. I've been amping up the drama and the action, to make sure he has these shots that really show off what David can do and how he can do it. It's going to be this really wonderfully dramatic issue.
- SPOILER SPORT: NIGHTWING's Past & NIGHT OF THE OWLS Future
- SPOILER SPORT: SCOTT SNYDER On BATMAN #7, NIGHTWING & OWLS (Part 1)
- SPOILER SPORT: SCOTT SNYDER On Future of NIGHT OF THE OWLS (Part 2)
- Re-Secret Identities: 10 Best Superhero Rebrandings
- CAPULLO, SNYDER Guiding BATMAN Through COURT OF OWLS


text: Job Discussion Forums :: View topic - Now I'm definitely moving to Rome Get TEFL Certified & Start Your Adventure Today! Job Discussion Forums"The Internet's Meeting Place for ESL/EFL Students and Teachers from Around the World!" FAQ Search Memberlist Usergroups Register Profile Log in to check your private messages Log in Now I'm definitely moving to Rome Job Discussion Forums Forum Index -> Italy View previous topic :: View next topic Author Message MrsMonkeyJoined: 08 Mar 2010Posts: 19 Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2010 12:30 pm Post subject: Now I'm definitely moving to Rome I have yet more newbie questions for you because you did so well with the salary one. I'll be able to afford a room in a shared house rather than an independent apartment. Assuming this is likely to be a sublet, informal agreement or even a slightly under-the-table landlord dealing in cash, how do I get the certificate of residence, if I need one? Also, am I right in thinking I don't need a permesso di soggiomo any more? And what other unobtainable bits of paper do I need to be legal, get healthcare, get a mobile phone, apply for a bank account etc? (please remember I'm an EU citizen so in theory it should be easier for me than for non-EU immigrants. She says, hopefully...) I'm looking here http://ukinitaly.fco.gov.uk/en/help-for-british-nationals/living-in-italy/res-entry-reqs-for-italy for the complete set of information but it mostly just directs you to other websites, which in turn are neither comprehensive nor simple to understand. Thanks lots for any help[/url] Back to top Teacher in RomeJoined: 09 Jul 2003Posts: 1286 Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2010 4:36 pm Post subject: I might fail you on this one, because the rules keep changing and I haven't kept up with them. This is what I think is the case, but I'm hoping others will come on here and either corroborate or set the record straight. First off, unless it's miraculously become a haven of efficiency, you're likely to get different responses from different officials in Rome. Don't let this worry you too much. You can do much worse than go down to the municipalita (town hall dealing with your area of Rome) and asking them what you should bring along to get residency. They're probably more likely to give you the time of day than the officials in the questura (which used to be off Via Nazionale, now on the outskirts of Rome off Via Tiburtina). As an EU citizen things are a lot easier - you're right in that. But you may well need health insurance for a year to cover you while you're in Italy. Get this from the UK before you come over. If you need emergency care in Italy you'll be treated, whoever you are, but your health insurance is for other things like dr prescriptions, etc. Before you can open a bank account, you'll need a codice fiscale, available from the local Ministry of Finance in your area. Just go along with your passport and they should issue you with one on the spot. In fact, you'll need a codice fiscale to get paid and do most things, so this should be your first piece of paperwork in Italy. It used to be that you could only get residency with your permesso di sogg. That has now been replaced with something else (a simple certificato, I think) but you mgiht also now need a copy of your working contract (even contratto di progetto) and your health insurance before you apply for residency. But check all this at your local municipalita, and be prepared to give over an entire morning to queue and get the info. It also used to be that with residency you get all the privileges of citizenship (excluding the right to vote) such as bank account, health coverage, etc. But again, this might not still be the case. If the worst comes to the worst, I think you can get a PO bank account even if you're not a resident... do check this out though. Bits and pieces to bring with you: copies of degree / TEFL certification; spare passport photos, health insurance, prescriptions of any medication you currently take. (The local pharmacy filled prescriptions for me even though I didn't yet have health insurance or a GP - make sure yours are stamped by your dr as recently as possible. They can look up brand names on their terminals and get the closest available in Italy.) Things you'll need to obtain here, probably in this order: codice fiscale, work contract, bank account, rental agreement (better to get this as a non-resident, "transitory" agreement, then don't ask to change it if you do become a resident), residency (perhaps), coverage on ASL (Italian health service - gets you a local GP). I'm bound to have forgotten something. Hope others also weigh in! Back to top MrsMonkeyJoined: 08 Mar 2010Posts: 19 Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2010 10:11 am Post subject: Blimey! Thanks so much for all that information. My employer is very sweet but is used to dealing with Canadians and Americans coming to teach for a year so doesn't seem to know much about the EU citizen side of things. Much appreciated. Back to top Teacher in RomeJoined: 09 Jul 2003Posts: 1286 Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2010 11:52 am Post subject: One site that you might get up-to-date info from is expatsinitaly dot com. A lot of info is for Americans, but there are also quite a few Brits there too. You could also try italymag dot co dot uk which also has a forum. Back to top the_thinkerJoined: 24 Nov 2009Posts: 68 Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2010 11:52 am Post subject: I'm not based in Rome but when I first came the sequence of bureaucracy was: 1 get codice fiscale from tax office 2 go to the municipio and register; what you actually need as an EU citizen is "attestazione di regolarita' di soggiorno per i cittadini dell'unione europea", which is a certificate saying your stay in Italy is 'regular' it doesn't have an expiry date or need renewing 3 take "attestazione di regolarita' di soggiorno" and work contract to servizi sanitari enrolment office here you choose your GP and get a printout of the health card you need to access health services (the real one comes in the post a few weeks after) After about a month the local police came round to my apartment to check I actually lived there. They didn't ask to see contracts or anything so you should be OK. I personally don't think you really need to get health insurance before you go since as long as you have a work contract you're entitled to full coverage in Italy. I suppose there's the worry about what might happen before you register, but you're entitled to emergency treatment anyway as an EU citizen. At various stages of all this you'll have to pay certain fees and stamps etc. This is normal. Back to top Teacher in RomeJoined: 09 Jul 2003Posts: 1286 Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2010 1:49 pm Post subject: Many thanks for the update Thinker! Back to top AGoodStoryJoined: 26 Feb 2010Posts: 738 Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2010 2:29 pm Post subject: MrsMonkey wrote: My employer is very sweet but is used to dealing with Canadians and Americans coming to teach for a year so doesn't seem to know much about the EU citizen side of things. Now I'm really confused! Just when I think I've finally got a question sorted out. . . ! After months of reading back pages here to try to get some basic answers to various questions, I thought I had finally sorted out the "Americans working in Europe" question: little, if any, work available in western Europe for non-EU passport holders unless they have very high/specialized qualifications. Eastern Europe, yes; western Europe, no, because of work permit regs. So, why is the landlord "used to dealing with Canadians and Americans coming to teach for a year?" Does he provide housing for teachers working through some specialized program in Rome? Or. . . ? Obviously I'm missing something! Back to top MrsMonkeyJoined: 08 Mar 2010Posts: 19 Posted: Tue Aug 03, 2010 9:28 am Post subject: I genuinely have no idea why they tend to employ Americans/Canadians. I do know they're given accommodation and a sort of 'allowance' rather than a salary as such though so, as you say, it may be a university exchange thing. They all look under 30 and they're all taking post-graduate courses (masters/PHD) in childhood development, early years education etc. Can find out for you after I get there though if you like? Back to top spiral78Joined: 05 Apr 2004Posts: 11524Location: On a Short Leash Posted: Tue Aug 03, 2010 3:14 pm Post subject: It'll be the student visa thing, for which one has to be an actual university student studying (normally in Italian) on some exchange scheme. There are certainly North American students still allowed to do this - recall that murder case in Italy a couple of years ago where a US student apparently participated in the gruesome murder of her UK roommate?? It's not a loophole for North Americans to work legally in Italy - the teaching has to be really very much a sideline to actual university studies at real universities. Back to top Teacher in RomeJoined: 09 Jul 2003Posts: 1286 Posted: Tue Aug 03, 2010 7:38 pm Post subject: As fas as I know, if you're a US citizen on an approved uni course, you can teach up to 20 hours a week to supplement your income. When I was in Rome, I think it was students from the John Cabot University doing this. It's definitely the case at the University of Perugia (where Amanda Knox and Meredith Kercher were studying). Back to top Display posts from previous: All Posts1 Day7 Days2 Weeks1 Month3 Months6 Months1 Year Oldest FirstNewest First Job Discussion Forums Forum Index -> Italy All times are GMT Page 1 of 1 Jump to: Select a forum Where to Begin----------------General DiscussionNewbie ForumCurrent Events ForumTechnology ForumOnline Teaching Forum Africa Forums----------------General Africa Forum Asia Forums----------------CambodiaChina (Job-related Posts Only)China (Off-Topic)Hong KongIndiaIndonesiaJapanMalaysiaPhilippinesSingaporeTaiwanThailandGeneral Asia ForumVietnam Caribbean Forums----------------General Caribbean Forum Europe Forums----------------Czech RepublicFranceGermanyGreeceItalyMacedonia and the BalkansPolandRomaniaRussia & C.I.S.SpainTurkeyUkraineUnited KingdomGeneral Europe Forum Latin America Forums----------------ArgentinaBrazilChileColombiaCosta RicaMexicoMexico (off-topic)PeruGeneral Latin America Forum The Middle East Forums----------------BahrainEgyptIsraelKuwaitOmanQatarSaudi ArabiaUnited Arab EmiratesGeneral Middle East Forum North America Forums----------------General North America Forum Oceania----------------Australia/New Zealand You cannot post new topics in this forumYou cannot reply to topics in this forumYou cannot edit your posts in this forumYou cannot delete your posts in this forumYou cannot vote in polls in this forum This page is maintained by the one and only Dave Sperling. Contact Dave's ESL Cafe Copyright © 2018 Dave Sperling. All Rights Reserved. Powered by phpBB © 2001, 2002 phpBB Group Teaching Jobs in China


text:
Fullmore is a special blend of space-age polymers and tiny, colored fibers that bond to your hair. In just seconds, bald spots disappear and thin hair looks thick and full again. Fullmore is a revolutionary new concept in the treatment of thinning and balding hair. Formulated for men and woman who want to look their best, Fullmore goes on quickly, not only covering bald spots but adding texture and fullness. Safe and effective to use. Fullmore is perfectly safe to use with Minoxidil and Propecia®. And if you've had a transplant, it's safe to use Fullmore as soon as the grafts have fully healed. Fullmore does not harm your hair in any way. Its space-age polymers simply attach to your existing hair. It doesn't penetrate the hair shaft or clog your pores. Your scalp will continue to breathe and maintain its healthy growth of hair.
Mayumi Squalane: One of the best skin lotion on the market! 7 Oils promote calming, soothing, and moisturizing at cellular levels. Skin will absorb quickly without leaving or feeling an oily film. Contains, Squalane (Olive and Sugar Cane), Omegas 3, 6, 7 & 9, Hi-Vitamin A, C & E, Panthenol Allantoin, Beta Glutan.
Trending: La Femme, Spritz n' Color, Ardell Eyelashes, Clubman Pinaud


text:
Field Recordings
Hanni El Khatib Gets Saved In The DesertKCRW
Hanni El Khatib and his band braved sharp desert succulents, chilly temperatures and an aggressive maraca for this performance of the appropriately titled "Save Me." The Los Angeles singer-songwriter, on a break from touring in support of his latest album In the Dirt, gamely stripped down his loud, bluesy garage-rock sound and let the stunning backdrop of Joshua Tree National Park provide the drama.
Featuring: Hanni El Khatib, Ron Marinelli, Hayden Tobin; Producers: Saidah Blount, Mito Habe-Evans, Collin Walzak; Videographers: Gabriella Garcia-Pardo, Mito Habe-Evans, Amy Schriefer; Audio Engineer: Kevin Wait; Editor: Mito Habe-Evans; Special Thanks: Ace Hotel Palm Springs


text:
Doc has cure for frustrated anglers
There was once a time when most fishermen would use either live or fresh bait. The few folks that would use lures for largemouth black bass hereabouts would use a Hawaiian Wiggle, a Zara Spook or a spoon. Yes, there were a few other lures, but those mentioned were the more popular ones. The saltwater anglers were at least 98 percent live shrimp for speckled trout, mud minnows or finger mullet for flounder, and cut bait or fresh crab for redfish. Certainly offshore anglers preferred squid, cut bait or some other natural bait. Few folks actually went after the king mackerel, but those that did would likely use spoons for trolling. Those days still exist for a few, but there have been some good old American ingenuity introduced and some really productive lures and fishing equipment.
On the freshwater scene, Nick Cream introduced the plastic worm into the lure choices. That lure rigged with a weedless hook gave fishermen access to fish haunts that were impossible to cast a lure into before. These plastics soon became the hottest bass foolers around. In fact, they still are.
Then came the Big-O crank bait that was given credit for winning many major bass fishing tournaments. Since they were introduced, many similar lures have been introduced to the market.
Add the Rat-L-Trap, Fuzzy-Wuzzy spinner, the Smithwick Rogue and the buzz baits, and folks that had only been mediocre fishermen before began to catch bass. Of course, these and plenty of other foolers have come along. Those aforementioned were only a reminder that fish catching on the freshwater scene has now evolved into more modern methods of angling. This will continue so long as there are Americans, and yes, folks from other countries that continue to bring new lures forward.
On the saltwater scene, it wasn't so long ago when popping corks and live shrimp were the go-to speckled trout and redfish fishing methods. Of course the Tony's Spoon was available, but the Bingo, the Plugging Shorty, and the Corky came later. Topwater lures that were popular in freshwater scene became the go-to lures for catching big specks in saltwater. The lead-head plastic tail jig followed and took the saltwater fishing community by storm. Next to live bait, these plastic lead-heads were effective for all kinds of saltwater fish, even offshore.
Since most inland saltwater fishermen go after speckled trout and redfish, that's what the plastics were designed for. The flounder purists were also doing very well with those same lures. But for some reason, there were times when it seemed that all of the game fish had lockjaw. That situation put one of our more ardent anglers to thinking of something better that would create more strikes, even during slow fishing times.
There had been for several years a movement, especially by flounder fishermen, to tempt fish with small pieces of fresh or fresh frozen shrimp or bait fish. This worked fine except that every fish in the water would bite the shrimp off the hook before the game fish could take it. Much time was spent rebating, which allowed less fishing time. So what would be a solution to that problem and still keep the lure attractive to the fish?
One of the anglers that went primarily after speckled trout and redfish was Dr. Ken Rutty of Port Arthur. Rutty would spend many of his free hours afloat casting lead-head plastics and replacing the fresh shrimp that the bait stealers seemed to get fat on. So he began to use his imagination to try to find a lure that would be smell like the fresh shrimp but be less of a chore to keep baited.
Sure enough, after much trial and error, the doctor invented what was long needed by inland and blue water saltwater anglers. The lure is a lead-head jig with a skirted tube. Instead of the need to continuing adding pieces of shrimp to the hook, there is a piece of clear tubing under the skirt. It has a cut near the tail end that may be filled with a piece of shrimp and then closed up. The basket effect allows the shrimp, fish bait, or scent impregnated cotton to release odor continually. Some of the lures come with spinners, and according to Rutty, these attract redfish like magnets. The ones with no spinners are speck killers all year around.You have guessed it. This may be the hottest flounder lure around. That piece of shrimp that is so effective for flounder is there for a heap of flat fish without needing to continually be replaced. This lure has long been needed and now it is available.
You can locate the Half-Alive lure at Tally's in Groves, Dailey's in Port Acres and at Dr. Rutty's Animal Clinic in Port Arthur. I believe this lure will be the new phenomenon for inland saltwater action. The flounder had better be ready to be caught.
Billy Halfin can be reached by e-mail at bhalfinoutdoors [at] aol [dot] com.


text:
Here's another small, but interesting data point in the debate around iOS and Android.
Bill O'Donnell, who runs the mobile group at travel booking company Kayak, tells me, "iOS is 3X what Android usage is, in terms of downloads and in terms of daily unique users," though he adds, "Android is picking up lately."
We were speaking in preparation for our panel at Business Insider's Social Commerce Summit on how to get people to use smartphones to buy stuff. Kayak has done a very good job at cracking the problem. To find out how, you'll have to come to conference.
Back to iOS versus Android. O'Donnell's theory for the disparity is that when people buy an iPhone, they buy an iPhone. Whereas when they buy and Android phone, they're often times buying a smartphone.
He says he spends a lot of time in carrier's stores buying phones to test. And he often overhears people coming in saying, "Give me a smartphone." And the sales people push Android. These people end up with a smartphone, but aren't necessarily thinking of it as a little computer.
iPhone buyers, on the other hand, are coming in and saying, "Give me an iPhone." And they see it as a mini computer and they try to max out its capabilities, which means downloading lots of apps.
This trend could be changing, though. O'Donnell says this Christmas Kayak saw a boom in Android usage. It was disproportionate to iPhone.
Perhaps the tide is turning and Android users are now thinking of their phones as mini-computers that should be used just like iPhones.
Get the latest Google stock price here.


text:
The Zettabyte Era is Upon Us
As many of the regular readers know, this time of year is one of my favorite. Sure, kids are out of school, the weather is nice, and that summer vacation is within reach… but the real kicker? The release of the annual Cisco Visual Networking Index (VNI) Forecast – this time for the period between 2011 and 2016.
We've been doing this report for 6 years now, and it has provided a lens into many of the changes we've seen in the industry, and there are many:
- Changes the units of measurement just to quantify the amount of traffic – moving from petabytes to exabytes to now – for the first time ever – zettabytes
- Changes in the types of devices that are driving traffic – from primarily PCs to now smartphones, tablets, TVs and the Internet of Things
- Changes in the services and applications we're using those devices for – from primarily data-centric to ones that are far more experience-centric.
Throughout all of those changes, however, we have had a constant – and that is the seemingly endless appetite we have for bandwidth and the incredible opportunities the network provides for societies, businesses, service providers, and consumers like you and me.
This year, the Cisco VNI forecasts that traffic from 2011-2016 will grow four-fold to reach 1.3 Zettabytes by 2016. A zettabyte is a trillion gigabytes (10 to the 21st power in bytes = a lot). To put that in perspective, all the IP traffic that has hit the global networks in the Internet years to date (1984-2012) has generated 1.2 Zettabytes in total. By 2016, our forecast has us generating more than that each year. Simply staggering numbers.
And the growth year to year is quite steep as well. Last year, we estimated traffic in 2015 would be 966 exabytes – the difference between that and our 2016 forecast is 350 exabytes – or nearly the entire amount generated on the network in 2011. And to think that that amount is being added incrementally to the network each year is both amazing and daunting (all the more reason why we should never underestimate the complexity that service providers deal with each and every day).
These numbers may seem steep, but when we go back and compare our past forecasts to actual traffic figures in a given year, they end up being anywhere from 2-10% on the conservative side – in fact in 2011, we ended up underestimating traffic by 10.7%, so if history is a guide, the actual amount of traffic in 2016 will be greater than 1.3 Zettabytes.
Drivers for this are multi-fold:
- More Devices
- More Users
- Faster Broadband Speed
- More Video
I'll go into each of these in future posts, and in the interim, encourage you to learn more by watching our webcast from yesterday or exploring our website at www.cisco.com/go/vni. If you have time, read what Dr. Robert Pepper has to say about the implications of the forecasted trends on government policies.
Thanks for reading and stay tuned.
In an effort to keep conversations fresh, Cisco Blogs closes comments after 60 days. Please visit the Cisco Blogs hub page for the latest content.