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Water Conservation Tips for the Summer:
• Make sure that hoses and sprinkler are watering plants and your lawn, not the side of your house or paved areas. Sweep driveways, sidewalks and porches rather than hosing to not only conserve water, but to avoid runoff. Washing the pavement for 60 minutes wastes 300 gallons of water!
• Water late at night or early in the morning (10:00 p.m. – 6:00 a.m.), since less evaporation takes place during these hours. An inch of water per week is enough to keep lawns green. Overwatering is the #1 waste of water in the summer, and the leading cause of disease and insect problems.
The City of Camas Water Department serves approximately 23,500 consumers, which equates to approximately 9,000 utility customers (this includes residential, industrial and commercial users). Our service area contains over 162.3 miles of pipeline. We perform operation and maintenance of the city's water system source of supply, water treatment and repair and maintenance of water meters. Useful utility customer information is located on the menu bar to the right.
Other useful water information and tips:
- Water Monitoring and Testing (Consumer Confidence Reports)
- Voluntary Odd/Even Watering Program During the Summer Months
- Water Leaks and Meter Reading Information
- Water Hydrant/Rentals
- Backflow Irrigation Information
- Illicit Discharge
- Camas Water Use Efficiency
- Boulder & Jones Creek Watershed Forest Management Plan
Water Monitoring and Testing
At the City of Camas, we understand how important it is to ensure the quality of the water we provide to you, the consumer. Our water quality data represents our major sources of supply. It compares these levels to the applicable standards and guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Washington State Department of Health, so we can assure safe and reliable drinking Water to our consumers.This is accomplished by enforcing some strict guidelines on local governments to ensure compliance.The compliance regulations require water quality monitoring, infrastructure requirements, reporting of contaminants, and operator certification.
Please review the following lead statement from the EPA:
If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. City of Camas is responsible for providing high quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791, or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.
The Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report) allows you to review our water quality test results. We have also included some information on backflow irrigation, water conservation and protection, health information, and City contacts. See our Consumer Confidence Reports (water reports) below.
- Consumer Confidence Report 2018
- Consumer Confidence Report 2017
- Consumer Confidence Report 2016
- Consumer Confidence Report 2015
- Consumer Confidence Report: 2014
- Consumer Confidence Report: 2013
Voluntary Odd/Even Watering Program During the Summer Months
Irrigation demand is high during the summer months, so we ask for your help to reduce the amount of water wasted by implementing a voluntary odd/even lawn watering program for residential customers. Water on odd days if your house number ends in an odd number and even days if it ends in an even number. Water Conservation Tips
Water Leaks and Meter Reading Information
LEARN HOW TO READ YOUR WATER METER. This will help you to detect a leak sooner, measure the amount of water your household uses during measurable cycles of use, and better understand your water bill. Water Leak Tips
Water Hydrants/Rentals
Portable Hydrant Meters are available for rent. Application can be made in the Finance Department of City Hall. A deposit is required (please call the Finance Department for the current deposit amount). You may fill out and print this form and bring it to the Finance Office along with the deposit to get the meter installed. If you have questions on the rental process please call the Finance Department at (360) 834.2462
Backflow Irrigation Information
Remember: Have your irrigation system's backflow device tested annually!
Select this link for assistance in identifying types of backflow prevention. Annual testing is required on certain backflow prevention devices as required by the Washington State Department of Health. A list of State Certified Backflow Testers is available on-line. For more information you can contact the City of Camas at (360) 817-1563. Annual reminder notices are sent by the Public Works Department and test results must be returned to the City (WAC 246-290-490).
Many irrigation systems could be more efficient by sizing and adjusting the heads properly so they are watering what you want instead of the sidewalks and streets. Drip systems are best for shrub areas and conserve more water. If changes to your landscaping have been made, make sure your sprinkler system has been changed also. Systems operated by timers can take advantage of early morning watering which helps reduce peak hour usage and is better for lawns and shrubs. Check timers periodically to make sure they are set correctly, as they can become out of adjustment with power interruptions. Professional landscapers and irrigation contractors can provide ways to landscape, maintain, and install systems to conserve the most water. Backflow and Irrigation Tips
Illicit Discharge
Please report possible water pollution (illicit discharge) to the City of Camas at (360) 817-1563, or the Department of Ecology SW Regional Office at 360-407-6300.
Camas Water Use Efficiency
In response to the Washington Legislature passing the Water Use Efficiency (WUE) Act of 1989 and an amendment to the Act in 2003, the Department of Health has developed guidelines and reporting requirements for municipal water systems to provide for water conservation. The goal for the Camas Water Department is to be below ten percent water loss. Below are goals and measures we are asking your help with. We continue to ask the citizens of Camas to conserve water by using water saving devices, fix leaking fixtures, and use odd/even watering rotation for irrigation. For more water conservation tips, visit our water-sewer page: Conservation Tips.
The City of Camas is still experiencing a drop in peak daily demand for water consumption. In part this is due to a new rate structure, new meter installs with data logging features, a tough economy, and better consumer awareness in water usage. For more information on water use efficiency, check out the following website www.doh.wa.gov/ehp/dw/programs/wue.htm.
2014 WUE Update: Camas will continue to reduce customer consumption per equivalent residential unit (ERU) by one percent per year, or approximately two gpd per year for the next three years. We will continue to reduce distribution leakage (DSL) to at, or below 10 percent for the next three years. DSL was 8.8% and the consumption per ERU was 235 gallons per day, which is a five gallon per day reduction from 2013.
The City distributes water conservation devices at some of its annual events and we have tips on saving water on our website. The Consumer Confidence Report has information and tips for detecting leaks, winterization and conservation ideas. Camas has been working with Clark Public Utilities on energy effieciency, which goes hand in hand with conservation.
The Commercial/Industrial users water usage was down about four percent from 2013. Irrigation usage was up 14 percent due to new home construction and large arterial street construction projects with a lot of landscaping.
Camas will continue to budget for replacing old galvanized steel, and cast iron piping in addition to new water services.
The City of Camas water-saving goals include the following:
1. Reduce the customer consumption per ERU by one percent or approximately two gpd per year over the next six years.
2. The City will continue to reduce distribution system loss to at or below ten percent for the next five years.
The City of Camas water-saving measures include the following:
1. Continue replacing industrial, commercial, and residential service meters with new Neptune R900i meters within three years to a new Neptune enhaced R900i radio read meters, which will allow us to data log usage with tools to notify customers about continuous leaks or high consumption.
2. Continue an aggressive leak-detection program. Inform consumers of this helpful information by reading the Family Fact sheet public awareness of leaks in the home.
3. Encourage the installation of smart controllers on irrigation systems for the school district and industrial users.
4. Educate the public on water-saving devices, and distribute water conservation kits and water-saving devices to homeowners.
5. Continue metering all sources.
6. Replacing water mains and service lines on an annual basis--problematic areas, and Capital Projects with a new Comprehensive Water Plan replacing old infrastructure. For questions, call our office at 360.817-1563.
Boulder & Jones Creek Watershed Forest Management Plan
The City of Camas Boulder Creek and Jones Creek watershed property consists of approximately 1,700 acres of mature forest land that is used by the City to collect water, viawater intake facilities, for municipal purposes. Other than minor improvements and maintenance activities necessary to operate the water intake facilities, the property has been unmanaged for the last 60+/- years. Boulder Creek & Jones Creek Watershed Forest Management Plan
In February 2011, the City contracted with AKS Engineering & Forestry (AKS) to perform a timber inventory and valuation assessment of the watershed. The purpose of this assessment was to inventory the timber resource and estimate its current value. The assessment determined that the property contains a significant amount of high value timber.
Given the valuation of the timber resource, the City directed AKS to develop a forest management plan to generate periodic income from the sale of wood products while protecting water quality.
AKS met with City staff to discuss the creation of this plan and performed extensive field reconnaissance of the watershed. An assessment of existing resources, a timber harvesting plan, an access and road plan, as well as implementation methods, guidelines, and management recommendations, comprise the main components of this plan.
City goals guided the development of this forest management plan. These goals are to:
(1) Protect and maintain water quality
(2) Generate periodic income from the sale of wood products
(3) Provide a permanent access/road network within the property for operational,
maintenance, and asset protection purposes
(4) Improve forest health


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Tips for Building a Website for Your Local Business
Regardless of what local online advertising channels you ultimately choose to employ for your business, it's safe to say that if you don't have a strong Web site, achieving local online advertising success is going to be incredibly difficult. Here are a few handy tips to make sure that your Web site is set up for success:
Start with a good URL. A memorable Web site address can help ensure that your customers don't forget how to reach you. Additionally, a Web address that contains your business's geography and product or service can help your search engine optimization (SEO).
Keep your site professional. Many of your potential customers will come to your Web site without ever visiting your actual place of business. Make sure to put your best foot forward by maintaining a cleanly designed, uncluttered site free of errors and typos.
Avoid overusing Flash. Fancy Flash intros can slow down the load time of your site and increase your bounce rate. Additionally, any text captured in Flash is invisible to the search engines.
Provide a clear call to action on every page. Want your potential customers to call to receive a free quote? Tell them. Want them to fill out a form to opt in to your e-newsletter? Tell them. Telling prospects what to do early and often is a surefire way to increase the chances that they'll do it.
Make it easy for your potential customers to contact you. Make sure to include your phone number and physical address on every page of your site. Every time prospects have to click to another page to access the information they're looking for increases the probability they'll exit your site and go to your competitor's site.
Keep SEO in mind. Research what keywords your potential customers are likely using on the search engines and make sure that these keywords are present on the appropriate pages of your Web site.
Create landing pages for your different services or product lines. This allows Web site visitors to easily find the information they need and allows you to send traffic from your pay-per-click (PPC) campaign directly to the most relevant page.
Clearly tell potential customers what differentiates you from the competition. This may just sound like Business 101, but it's especially important online where your competitors are all just a click away.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
I heard another noise and turned around. There was...
The Styles Project116196365
- by Infinity all star
- Rating:
- Published: 7 Aug 2013
- Updated: 2 Jan 2014
- Status: Complete
Ashton Peterson, your average sixteen year old girl, but she's moving half way across the world! She likes her new neighbor Niall, but starts falling for Harry Styles, and their worst enemy Zayn. Here's the question, will she fall in love, get hurt or will something unexplained happen?
Join MovellasFind out what all the buzz is about. Join now to start sharing your creativity and passion
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It would be hard to imagine a vision of Baptist life edgier than the one served up by a recent Wake Forest School of Divinity graduate named Zachary Bailes. This parable starts something like this: Once upon a time, America was dominated by giant breweries that produced rivers of ordinary beers like Budweiser, Coors and Miller Lite. Some of their local outlets grew into mega-franchises that could seat thousands of people in shopping-mall-like facilities featuring giant video screens, pop-rock bands and witty Baby Boomer hosts who were treated like superstars.
But eventually many young adults grew restless, yearning for brews with more local character, spice and charm, robust beers like People's Porter, Cottonwood Endo, Carolina Blonde and myriad others. Some created Craft Beer collectives and then taprooms, spreading the word about this emerging do-it-yourself beer lifestyle.
So here is the church-growth gospel according to Bailes: If churches want to reach millions of independent-minded young Americans they should learn a thing or two from craft brewers. Yes, he thinks this is true for Baptists who don't drink beer, as well as the many Baptists who -- reality alert -- down a few cold ones now and then.
It's time, he said, for "craft churches" that reach niche audiences.
"Many people, and especially young adults, are willing to pay more for a quality product. ... Opting to shy away from the typical, freezing cold, American light beer, brewers and imbibers desire something with character and distinct flavor," argued Bailes, in an Associated Baptist Press commentary. He also edits the "Crazy Liberals and Conservatives" website.
"In an era where churches experience lower attendance rates, perhaps we would be well served to look into 'craft churches.' Craft brewers do not create the product to be the next 'big beer' producer, but rather isolate and engage a community. Megachurch models still work for some, but they have become the standard flavor without any distinct flavor."
On one level, it's easy to see this parable as a harsh judgment on decades of Evangelical Protestant megachurch culture. But the reality in America's increasingly post-denominational age is more complex than that, a fact liberal Christians such as himself must acknowledge, said Bailes, in a telephone interview.
Truth is, growth in most of America's "giant breweries," the major denominations in this scenario, peaked in the mid-20th Century and many have been in demographic freefall for decades, especially on the doctrinal left. The Southern Baptist Convention continued to grow -- driven by megachurches and growing ministries with Latinos and African-Americans -- until the past five years, when small declines slipped its membership under 16 million.
Meanwhile, the progressive, "moderate" Baptist camp in the wars to control the nation's largest Protestant flock has been having its own troubles. While it's hard to calculate a total membership statistic for congregations affiliated with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, this loose network eliminated 13 staff positions last year in the face of a nearly 20 percent budget decline.
That's the bad news, said Bailes. The good news is that Baptist life is rooted in a tradition flexible enough to allow independent-minded believers to start their own niche congregations that can speak to an age in America "in which, to be blunt about it, the church isn't the big dog on campus like it used to be," he said.
However, focusing new ministries on "craft churches" that target urbanites, college communities, artists and other hip, young demographics could, he acknowledged, lead to the theological equivalent of "beer snobbery" in which insiders are tempted to look down on the less enlightened.
The key, he argued, is to keep focusing on the needs of local communities and then to build networks of church leaders who share what they have learned.
"What would a more 'robust' church style look like? ... By focusing on the depth and flavor of the spiritual life offered, perhaps younger adults will drink deeper from the well of the local church," argued Bailes, in his essay.
"Wherever one stands on the issue of drinking, one element cannot be ignored: in what may be one of the largest industries in the United States, small, craft brewers are experiencing growth, not big-name brewers. Though many who read this might look over their shoulder when they walk into the beer aisle, or stay quiet about the 'fruits of the vine,' perhaps beer can teach us something."


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Cómplices del delito: Financiación internacional para el control de drogas y violaciones flagrantes de los derechos humanos
Este informe sigue la pista de los fondos que los Estados donantes destinan a las iniciativas de control de drogas, muchas veces a través de las Naciones Unidas, en países donde las ejecuciones, las detenciones arbitrarias, los maltratos físicos y el trabajo esclavo son un arma más de la guerra contra las drogas. Más información, en inglés, está disponible abajo.
Millions of dollars in international aid for drug enforcement is spent in countries with extremely poor human rights records and with little or no accountability for the resulting abuses, according to a new investigative report carried out by the UK-based drugs and human rights organisation, Harm Reduction International.
Launched in advance of the UN International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, on June 26, the report Partners in Crime: International Funding for Drug Control and Gross Violations of Human Rights (1) tracks drug enforcement funding from donor states, often via the United Nations, to countries where executions, arbitrary detention, physical abuse and slave labour are weapons in the war on drugs.
"In some cases donor states have effectively paid for the capture of their own citizens only for them to be later sentenced to death," said Damon Barrett, Deputy Director of Harm Reduction International and co-author of the report. "There are no safeguards – when the UN acts as a conduit for these funds, a further layer of bureaucracy separates the money from the abuses. Instead of the UN being a guardian of human rights it becomes more like a laundry mechanism, washing the funds of any form of accountability."
Information for the report was compiled using official government information, correspondence with governments, UN project documents, human rights country reports, NGO publications, information from incountry partners and news reports.
The report's findings include:
- Belgium, France, Ireland, Japan, UK contributed USD $3.4 million for an UNODC border control project in Iran that has led to a twelve-fold increase in arrests at key transit points. More than 1,000 people were executed for drug offences from 2010 through 2011, more than three times the previous two-year period (2)
- France and the UK contributed USD $720,000 to a UNODC Project promoting and strengthening intelligence-led investigations capacities in Iran.
- Australia, Luxembourg, Sweden contributed USD $1,649,800 for a UNODC project on capacity building for drug detention centre staff in Viet Nam. Drug detention centres in the country are essentially forced labour camps, where detainees are confined for years and compelled to work for private companies that contract with the centres (3)
- US government contributed USD $736,800 to a UNODC Interdiction and seizure capacity project in Viet Nam. Key indicators adopted to measure the project's success or failure was 'a progressive increase in the number of individuals arrested by the Interdiction Task Force Units…'. At least 24 people were sentenced to death for drug offences in 2010 and at least 27 drug offenders were sentenced to death in 2011
- US, Japan, Thailand, China, Brunei, Singapore, Sweden, Germany contributed funds to drug detention centre infrastructure in Lao PDR. Physical abuse and right to health violations have been documented in drug detention centres across Lao PDR. Homeless people, those with mental disabilities and occasional drug users are confined alongside regular drug users and children mix with adults.
Thirty-two states retain the death penalty for drug offences. Among those, China, Iran and Viet Nam apply capital punishment prolifically for drug offences. Harm Reduction International's research shows that all are in receipt of international funding and UN assistance for drug enforcement.
Partners in Crime illustrates the very recent case of UK woman Khadija Shah, now facing the death penalty in Pakistan, who was captured through a programme paid for by Canadian government money aimed at strengthening the Pakistan government's capacity at international transit points, including airports. (4)
The report also documents the involvement of the Australian Federal Police in the capture in Indonesia of the 'Bali Nine', a group which included Australian citizens, some of whom are now on death row as a result. (5)
Hundreds of thousands of people have been held in drug detention centres in Asian countries, in particular China, Viet Nam, Cambodia and Lao PDR, supposedly for the purpose of treatment. They are held without trial for months or even years. Despite the fact that serious concerns have been raised about the absence of due process guarantees and forced labour, psychological and physical abuse within the centres, donors continue to supply funding for capacity building and even infrastructure.
"There are many written policy statements against these abuses from both donors and the UN, but as this report shows they are currently empty gestures" said Patrick Gallahue, Human Rights Analyst at Harm Reduction International and co-author of the report. "How else do you explain the UNODC´s excellent position statement on human rights while at the same time holding a fundraiser for a notorious drug detention centre in Lao PDR, and continuing to assist drug enforcement in Iran?"
The report comes just as the US, which has repeatedly supported construction of abusive detention centres in Lao, announced $400,000 in new donations to the country, including funding for these notorious centres. It recommends donor states and implementing agencies develop guidelines around drug control funding and a review of projects in high-risk environments, freezing support if necessary.
Keep up-to-date with drug policy developments by subscribing to the IDPC Monthly Alert.


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Mark Steiner necesitaba un nuevo diseño de logotipo y lanzó un concurso de diseño en 99designs.
Un ganador ha sido elegido entre 111 diseños de 22 diseñadores freelance.
Festival of Faiths - Sacred Water: Sustaining Life
The Festival is looking for images of water that convey spirituality and the notion that water has central significance to many faiths. Our views on and about water are informed by our own faith traditions, both in its uses in our rituals and its references in our sacred texts. The winning design will balance the water message with the message that many faiths are touched.
We are looking to create a graphic for this year's 14th Annual Festival of Faiths: Sacred Water: Sustaining Life that will be used on a brochure cover, websites, posters etc.
The Festival of Faiths is the flagship program of the Center for Interfaith Relations. Our slogan is: "Many Faiths, One Heart, Common Action".
The Festival will be a mix of programs focusing on water's role in faith traditions, as a sacred element, and our present day responsibility to see that fresh clean water is available to all people today and into the future.
The target audience is faith and spiritual communities, those concerned about the environment and people interested in helping to create a better world.
Design should incorporate the words:
Festival of Faiths - Sacred water: Sustaining Life November 5 - 14, 2009
Design should work well as a 8 1/2 by 5 1/2 inch brochure cover.
Should reproduce well on paper and electronically
Descubre cómo funciona un concurso de diseño u obtén más información sobre nuestros servicios de diseño de logo.


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Listed below are agencies that can use service-learning students at their establishment. If you would like to conduct service-learning hours at any of these agencies, please contact Mike Coquyt at 218.477.2019.
Jen Schill | email@example.com://www.arccassnd.com215 N. University Drive | Fargo, ND
Seeking volunteers to provide friendship to people with developmental disabilities. Main goal is to provide social opportunities and community integration for individuals with developmental disabilities. Volunteers spend 8 hours or more with their companion and commit 9-12 months to the program (summer's flexible).
firstname.lastname@example.com://www.bethanynd.org201 University Dr. South | Fargo, ND 58103 OR 4255 30th Ave South | Fargo, ND 58104
Assist the facility in a variety of different areas: Coffee Shop, Gift Shop, Therapeautic Recreation, sort and deliver mail, escort residents, play piano, work on crafts, usher at Worship services, assist fundraisers, or one to one (adopt a grandparent program).
firstname.lastname@example.com 715 11th St North | Moorhead, MN 56560-2083
Answer hotline calls (requires training), staff office hours, sort baby/maternity clothing, make up layettes, computer/technical work, graphic design, advertising, public relations, marketing, grant writing, and public speaking. Suggested Majors: Social Work, Mass Communications, Nursing, Graphic Design/Graphic Communications, Speech, Psychology.
Linda Johnasen | firstname.lastname@example.com 15th St. North | Fargo, ND 58102 Centre, Inc is a community sanction center, otherwise known as a halfway house, for adults. It is a high-structure living environment. Volunteers would be working with residents and getting involved with various activities. Students may also contact Doug Tolle at 237-9340 for more current volunteer opportunities.
Paul Papo Fernandez | 218.236.73181014 19th St. South | Moorhead, MN 56561 Need student volunteers to help with setup and decoration for various events. Also, there is a need for childcare volunteers during some events. The goals of Centro Cultural is to build strong Latino youth, create a unified, engaged Latino community, bridge with the broader Fargo/Moorhead Community, and promote leadership and organizational effectiveness.
Shanda Hakk | email@example.com 3350 35th Ave S | Fargo, ND 58104 (Stonebridge)622 23rd St. South | Fargo, ND 58103 (McCormick Park)CHARISM Community Center is a family resource center designed to create opportunities for individuals and families that increase their strengths and potential. There is currently an after school enrichment program for children grades K-12. Service-Learning students would help tutor from 4-5:30 pm Mondays through Thursdays. There is also a Girl's Group that meets Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:30-5:30 pm as an after school enrichment and homework help program. Volunteers gain practical experience in areas of education, child development, the arts, science and recreation.
701.236.0372http://www.churches-united.org/1901 1st Ave. N. | Moorhead, MN 56560 This is a shelter for homeless individuals and families. Volunteers can participate in meal preparation, sorting inventory, organizing donations, office work, after school kids program, etc.
Scott A. Hutchins | 218.299.5370324 S. 24th St. | Moorhead, MN 56560 Volunteers are needed to help with special events, marketing/promotions, citywide beautification projects in Moorhead, and the Hjemkomst Center.
Leann Wallin | 218.299.5143http://www.moorheadpolice.com/citizeninvolvement/volunteer.asp 915 9th Ave North | Moorhead, MN 56560 Volunteers may help with special even staffing, traffic control, restorative justice panels, checking homes of residents on vacation, parking enforcement, monitoring handicap parking spaces and fire lanes, clerical and computer work, conducting traffic and other studies, youth services such as D.A.R.E, etc.
284.2270324 24th St S. | Moorhead, MN. 56560 Volunteers have the opportunity to tutor but there is limited scheduling. At 1:15 on Tuesdays, someone is needed to lead a group activity. You can also work with children in grades 7-12 who are emotionally disturbed or mentally ill.
701.526.3000http://www.culturaldiversityresources.org/303 Roberts St. North | Fargo, ND 58102This is parent organization that concentrates on the issue of diversity in the Fargo-Moorhead area. A person can volunteer as a project planner with their various programs and work in the office.
Linda Janich | email@example.com http://www.dakotaranch.org/1601 32nd Ave. South | Fargo, ND 619 13 Ave. East | West Fargo, ND1500 Center Ave West | Dilworth, MNVolunteers may help at the thrift stores in either West Fargo, Fargo, or Dilworth with preparing merchandise for sales floor, helping keep sales floor neat and clean, and assisting customers and donors to meet their needs. Volunteers can also help with special events or other programs.
Food Pantry Coordinator, Jim | firstname.lastname@example.com http://www.fmddh.org 1308 Main Ave. | Moorhead, MN 56560Volunteers help families shop for food. The food pantry is open Monday through Thursday each week. Monday and Wednesday is 6:30PM-7:45PM and Tuesday and Thursday is 1:00PM-3:00PM. Volunteers are asked to come thirty minutes before for a brief orientation and plan to stay up to thirty minutes following close to help re-stock shelves.
Assistant Director, Beth | firstname.lastname@example.com 714 8th St. South | Moorhead, MN 56560 At the Dorothy Day House, volunteers are needed mainly to cook and put together food baskets for the food pantry. You can also do office/computer work, publicity, public speaking, research, cleaning, assist clients, and help unload the food truck.
Jennifer Slavinsky | 701.237.9908http://www.easterseals.com15 S. 21st St. Suite 105 | Fargo, ND 58103 Volunteers can help coordinate special events during the year, like plays, face painting, and other activities. They can also help in the phone centers, and assisting with bulk mailings. Suggested Majors: Social Work, Education, Psychology, Special Education, Mass Communications.
Josh Deutsch | email@example.com://www.elimcare.org/ehf.htm3534 University Dr. S | Fargo, ND 58103 Assisting with bulk mailings, polishing fingernails; activity dept. ie, play bingo, birthday parties, coffee time; play piano, children's center-as needed, Pioneer House Assisted Living activities as needed. Suggested Majors: Health Care, Social Work, Childcare, and Education.
Kerri Anderson | email@example.com://www.essentiahealth.org1702 S University Dr. | Fargo, ND 58103Students are needed in multiple volunteer positions: working the hospitality desk or the gift shop, as the OR host, escorting patients from radiology or surgery, bringing and reading books to patients with the reading cart, or registering patients in the Emergency Room. Can accommodate many different schedules. Volunteers will work 4 hr shifts for a minimum of 3 months.
Kaley Sorenson | 218.291.2258http://www.eventide.org/1405 7th St. South | Moorhead, MN 56560 This long-term care facility provides numerous opportunities for volunteers. A person can visit with residents, assist with feeding, read mail to them, call Bingo, go for walks, or provide entertainment. Whatever is needed to brighten a resident's day. Duties are flexible and can be arranged to match the student's interests or career field.
Jane Lundeen | email@example.com http://www.famhealthcare.org/3325 21st St. South | Fargo, ND 58104 The Family Health Care Center needs volunteers who are interested in helping with diagnostics data entry, guest services, office administrative duties, and chart preparation.
701.293.1440http://www.valleyseniorservices.org/2801 32nd Ave S | Fargo, ND 58103Duties: Delivering Meals on Wheels to homebound elderly or helping at community dining meal sites. Suggested Majors: Social Work, Gerontology.
Julie Otto | firstname.lastname@example.com
http://www.youthcommission.com/2500 18th St. South | Fargo, ND 58103 You will be a mentor and a friend with children during, before, and after school activities. There is a great need to mentor and work one-on-one with at-risk and special needs children. Suggested Majors: Elem. Education, Phys. Education, Child Development, and Art Education.
Sheila Borgerding | email@example.com://www.myfirstlink.org/4357 13th Ave S Suite 107 L | Fargo, ND 58103 First Link operates a volunteer data-base. They work with volunteers in giving them the perfect match with a volunteer experience. At FirstLINK you can volunteer as an Administrative Volunteer, Marketing and Promotions, or Web Page Maintenance. There are opportunities for custom-tailored internship positions (non-paid). Volunteers can also work with the Season of Hope program which deals with the Giving Tree, data entry, and collection and distribution. Suggested Majors: Social Work, Communications, Psychology, Computer Science, Marketing, Sociology.
235.8217http://www.friendship-inc.com/801 Page Dr. | Fargo, ND 58103 Volunteers are needed for grant writing, internship in social work, research on various disabilities, and new techniques in responding.
Jesse White | firstname.lastname@example.com http://www.greatplainsfoodbank.org/1720 3rd Ave. N. | Fargo, ND 58102 Volunteers needed for re-packing of donated food products into cases, weighing products and marking boxes and palletizing case lots, labeling products with ingredient labels, repacking clothing items, removing tags/hangers, separating into size categories and packing in case lots.
1.800.237.4629http://www.hrrv.org/ 1701 38th St SW Suite 101 | Fargo, ND 58103 Volunteers, 18 years of age or older, are matched with our patients/families to assist with daily living tasks such as: running errands, light housekeeping, fixing a meal, providing companionship, reading to patients, playing board games or cards, painting fingernails, watching TV together, mowing the lawn, sitting with the patient so the caregiver can have a break, being a good listener. Volunteers can do so much for our patients/families that is not included on this list. However, volunteers are not asked to provide personal cares, administer meds, feed patients or lift and transfer patients. We require a 6 month commitment when volunteering with our patients/families.
701.280.9474http://www.northdakota.wish.org/1102 43rd St. SW, Suite E | Fargo, ND 58103 Volunteers can help with office support, carrying on light duties. Also volunteers can help by working with the families of Make-A-Wish recipients.
701.235.5530http://www.marchofdimes.com/northdakota/ 1330 Page Dr. Suite 102 | Fargo, ND 58103Volunteer opportunities throughout the year include: office work, public speaking, participating in fundraising activities, campaign letter writing, advocacy, and a local/statewide website.
218.236.6502810 4th Ave. South | Moorhead, MN 56560Volunteers would assist with translation if they are bilingual, working with patients , or there are also projects available through research. Students in the Business and Administrative fields might also be interested in conducting comparative studies for financial health care.
firstname.lastname@example.com 2410 14th St. South | Moorhead, MN 56560Students may serve as tutors to work with immigrants and refugees in the English as a Second Language adult classroom. Volunteer in classroom, tutor GED prep students, family literacy program, and social work.
Jill Johnson-Danielson | 218.236.9884200 5th St. S. #308 | Moorhead, MN 56560Mujeres Unidas supports change by empowering and educating Latina women, young women, girls, boys, and young men. Youth programs connect Latino children and youth enjoying education. Volunteers are able to help with a variety of programs including Aztec Academy Math and Science, Quincenara Club, Soy Libre/I'm Free, Mis Libros/My Books, and more.
https://www.thevillagefamily.org/nokomis 618 23rd St. S. | Fargo, ND 58103 | 701.232.56353001 11th St. S University | Fargo, ND 58103 | 701.232.0426Volunteers would assist in child care as a teacher's aid. Also, they would help with any current projects going on.
701.241.9289http://www.perrycenter.org/2345 Meadowridge Pkwy | West Fargo, ND 58078Female volunteers assist the young moms to be with Dr. appointments, crafts, cooking supper, and just being a friend (hanging out together, it is important to be a positive role model and good listener). Some volunteers can talk with the girls about pregnancy, some will attend Lamaze classes with them, and also be coaches for the actual delivery. Suggested Majors: Social Work, Education.
Robin | firstname.lastname@example.com www.rainbowbridgekids.net 715 N. 11th St., Suite 101 | Moorhead, MN 56560Rainbow Bridge Safe Exchange & Visitation Center is looking for volunteers to supervise visits between parents and their children. Interested individuals must first attend a volunteer training. Please call Robin with questions or to get signed up for the next training time.
Nancy Boyle | email@example.com://www.raccfm.com/317 8th St. North | Fargo, 58102Volunteer Duties: Be an advocate and provide support for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. This requires 48 hours of training. Program volunteers assist with clerical, fundraising, and special events. Court watch volunteers observe and document cases that deal with domestic abuse or assault. Volunteers are also needed for public speaking to schools and agencies about the issues of personal violence and the services the center provides. They would also be able to carry a beeper and handle domestic violence and sexual assault crisis calls. Suggested Majors: Social Work, Paralegal, Psychology, Nursing, Medical, Mass Communications.
firstname.lastname@example.com http://www.redriverwomensclinic.com512 1st Ave N | Fargo, ND 58102The Red River Women's Clinic is the only abortion provider in North Dakota. We serve women from ND, SD and MN. We strive to offer an emotionally supportive and non-judmental environment for out patients and their support persons. Red River Women's Clinic is a great place to put your political beliefs into direct community action.Volunteers can become patient escorts, or volunteer in the clinic office doing various tasks like filing, making charts and packets, and generally helping clinic staff in the day to day operations of the clinic.
1.800.832.5575http://www.smrls.org 118 Broadway Suite 616 | Fargo, ND 58102They have an excellent opportunity for a Spanish/English speaking volunteer to answer phones and assist migrant workers and farmers.
firstname.lastname@example.com http://www.mnstate.edu/sciencecenter/Minnesota State University Moorhead | Moorhead, MN 56563The Regional Science Center is an outreach program of the university that provides programs to over 20,000 people each year. The Center provides programs in natural history and observation al astronomy at its two sites; the 300 acre Buffalo River Site located off highway ten 15 miles east of Moorhead, MN. The site has a 13,000 interpretive center and telescope observatory built in 1992. The second site is the MSUM Planetarium located in Bridges Hall on the MSUM campus. A variety of volunteer opportunities are available, contact the science center office in Hagen Hall for more information.
Christine Laney | firstname.lastname@example.com://www.riverkeepers.org/325 7th St. S. Suite 201 | Fargo, ND 58103Opportunities can be made to fit student needs based on hours available, curriculum goal, and time of year. Opportunities include organizing or assisting with special events, writing and/or designing marketing material, and organizing or assisting with river focused programs.
237.4700http://www.riverviewplace.org/5300 12th St. South | Fargo, ND 58104Volunteers can choose between resident services, which is companionship work, or activities. Volunteers can help with marketing, planning a newsletter, advertising, and open houses. The volunteers of activities will organize special events, birthday parties, crafts, decorating, bulletin boards, and outings with residents. Suggested Majors: Gerontology, Sociology, Social Work, Psychology, Health Care Administration, Art, and Mass Communications.
Ruth Hagel | firstname.lastname@example.com://www.rmhcfargo.org/1330 18th Ave S | Fargo, ND 58103Volunteers will help with office duties, data entry, filing, boxing, housekeeping, promotions, and running errands. They may also help with giving tours, preparing meals, and more. The volunteer opportunities are flexible and change often.
firstname.lastname@example.com http://www.rosewoodonbroadway.com/1351 N. Broadway | Fargo, ND 58102Volunteers are needed for various tasks including medical escorts, hairdressers, mail assistants, chapel assistants, musicians, bingo assistants, program assistants, courtyard keeper, outing escorts, bakers, card players, and more.
Theresa Huff | email@example.com www.rsvpnorthdakota.org 1919 N. University Dr. | Fargo, ND 58102RSVP+ connects agencies with needs to volunteers with skills. They serve North Dakota and Clay County, MN. A wide variety of volunteer opportunities are always available at different locations, times, and levels of commitment. Check out their website for specific information.
Director of Volunteer Services | 701.234.5940http://www.meritcare.com/801 Broadway St. | Fargo ND 58122 and multiple clinic locationsVolunteers can help in the hospital working with all age groups in a variety of settings, delivering flowers, escorting patients, and providing support. They could also work with families in family rooms or have direct client contact in the ER. For more information, check out their website at sanfordhealth.org/Careers/VolunteerOpportunities/Fargo
email@example.com://www.sendcaa.org/3233 South University Dr. | Fargo, ND 58104South Eastern North Dakota Community Action Agency is a Day Care facility that needs volunteers that would work with the children by being mentors, preparation for daily activities, or just by providing physical care to children. In addition, they would have head start classroom work. Suggested Majors: Education, Social Work, and Health.
701.478.6562https://sharehouse.org4219 9th Ave. S. | Fargo, ND 58103Sister's Path is a permanent supportive housing project that provides chemical addiction treatment services to homeless, single-parent families.
Monseinor Mike Patnode | 233.4780http://www.stfrancismhd.org/601 15th Ave. North | Moorhead, MN 56560This is a Hispanic ministry where volunteers can help teach English to Spanish speaking adults for the citizenship test. There is a need for child care during Sunday liturgy's (all Spanish mass) and serving coffee. They would also like a guitar player to teach young adults how to play. Opportunities also available in forming Hispanic Boy Scout troops and also fundraising. Volunteers will never do just one thing, but various tasks.
233.7347https://salvationarmynorth.org/community/fargo/1503 1st Ave. North | Moorhead, MN 56560Need volunteers to process incoming donations in a second-hand store retail setting (ex. Clothes, books, linens, furniture, household), do some light janitorial work, and assist with recycling operations on-site. Come prepared to work in a warehouse type area.
701.232.2452http://www.sendcaa.org/3233 S. University Dr. | Fargo, NDVolunteers are needed to assist with packaging and delivering of food baskets to 300+ elderly. We have opportunities with our low-income childcare center (0-5) and Early Head Start to assist with children; reading, etc.
Jay Pederson | 800.783.7732 ext. firstname.lastname@example.com http://www.specialolympicsminnesota.org/Area_4.phpVolunteers needed as mentors, coaches, and for various activities, Moorhead team leadership members, and doing computer work for the area.
701.476.1200http://www.touchmarkfargo.com 1200 Harwood Dr. | Fargo, ND 58104Tuchmark is as an active retirement community. As a volunteer, you can participate in activities with the residents, teach them computer skills, or visit them. Volunteers can also spend time on the Alzheimer's unit visiting residents. You can shadow staff, help with musical activities, Bingo, and other activities. Suggested Majors: Social Work, Gerontology, Administration, and Nursing.
Vicki Ness | email@example.com://www.villamariafargo.com/3102 University Drive South | Fargo, ND 58103Volunteers are linked up with a one-on-one friend, or they can be involved with planning group activities like Olympics or Bingo. Developing lasting relationships with an elderly person. Suggested Majors: Social Work, Education, Pre. Med, Psychology.
Julie Didde | 701.451.4877http://www.thevillagefamily.org/1201 25th St. S. | Fargo, ND 58103This big brother/big sister program is a one-year commitment. Volunteers are matched with a child that has similar interests. Some volunteers can volunteer in a Fargo/Moorhead elementary school for one hour a week, playing games, helping with homework, or working with the child on a computer. There is a strong need for male mentors right now.
email@example.com http://claycountymn.gov/414/West-Central-Regional-Juvenile-Center 919 8th Ave. North | Moorhead, MN 56560This facility contains juveniles that have committed misdemeanors and/or felonies in the West Central Minnesota area. It is also used as a holding facility for juveniles who have been arrested and are being released to their parents/guardians. Students are needed to help in the Regional Juvenile Center, helping in the outpatient program with 12-18 year-old youths awaiting sentencing. Volunteers will sit with the kids, help monitor them, and keep them busy with activities. Suggested Majors: Criminal Justice, Sociology, Social Work
Anita Bender | firstname.lastname@example.com://www.mnstate.edu/womenctr/171 MacLean Hall, MSUM | Moorhead, MN 56563This is a campus organization that deals with women's issues, including the power of women in our society today. A person can volunteer to develop written materials, be a part of their planning team, or assist in organizing the annual events.
701.364.4134www.ymcacassclay.org400 1st Ave S | Fargo, ND 58103They have several options for volunteer opportunities including childcare, events, and work around the different locations.
701.232.3449http://ywcacassclay.org/volunteering/3000 S. University Dr. | Fargo, NDVolunteers would help either in the Child Care Center or in the shelter. Many opportunities are available.


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WESTCHESTER, N.Y. -- Metro-North has announced alternate service plans following the explosion in Harlem on Wednesday morning.
Trains are running in Connecticut and in Westchester County on the New Haven, Harlem and Hudson Lines. But service ends in the Bronx.
Customers traveling to New York City will be taken to stations in the Bronx where they can transfer to the subway to travel to Manhattan, Metro-North announced. Customers looking to travel north out of Grand Central Terminal should take the subway, which will honor Metro-North tickets.
The alternate service plan will remain in effect until further notice.
Here is a line-by-line guide for northbound Metro-North commuters:
Hudson Line
Riders can get to and from New York City via the No. 4 subway and Metro-North's Yankees-153rd St. station.
Harlem Line
For northbound service, customers should take the No. 5 subway to the 180th Street station and transfer to the No. 2 subway for service to 233rd Street to access the Woodlawn Metro-North station. Southbound customers can take Metro-North train to the Wakefield station and transfer to the No. 2 subway into the city. Limited local Metro-North train service will be provided between Wakefield and Fordham stations.
New Haven Line
Riders heading out of New York City should take the No. 5 subway service to the 180th Street station and transfer to the No. 2 subway for service to 233rd Street to access Metro-North's Woodlawn station. New York-bound New Haven Line service will operate to Woodlawn station, where customers can take the No. 2 subway.
There are no stranded trains, Metro-North said. Power has been cut to the third rail on all four tracks in the neighborhood of the explosion. Metro-North said customers should consider limiting travel Wednesday, if they can.
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Fujifilm's EXR-tagged, F-series cameras take great pictures. Over the past few years, Fuji turned this line into a dark-horse favorite among enthusiast shooters. With over-sized sensors and innovative processing techniques, the F-series does things that other travel zooms cannot. But for whatever reason -- maybe the less-recognizable name, or often clunky user experience, or the bit of extra know-how it takes to make one of these cameras really come alive -- these cameras haven't been as popular as they should have.
Like most travel-zoom makers this year, Fujifilm took the more-is-more approach with the F550EXR. They packed it with all the trendy components and features, like a versatile 24-360mm lens, backside-illuminated CMOS sensor, and GPS geo-tagging capability. Its spec sheet looks as strong as any long-zoomer, but we've seen this approach hurt a few cameras already this year. Read on to find out if Fujifilm lost the forest of great image quality through the trees of an impressive feature set.
Body & Design
The F550EXR is on the small side for a camera with a 15x zoom lens. At its thickest, it's about an inch and a quarter deep, and slightly longer and wider than a deck of cards. It fits in a pants pocket if it needs to, though more comfortably in a bag or jacket pocket. The shiny plastic casing would be at home on a prepaid cell phone, but it looks tacky on a $350 camera.
The layout is all business. A functional button, display, or input takes up about every square inch of real estate. Most of the rear panel belongs to a 3-inch, 460,000-pixel LCD, along with a few hotkeys for display adjustments, playback, video recording, and a general purpose functions, as well as a selection wheel.
In the top right corner, the mode dial sits at a 45-degree slant between the top and rear panels. The shutter/zoom-tilter combo sits to its left, followed by a small, recessed power button, a hump for the GPS tracker, and the pop-up flash -- annoying on any camera, but tolerable here. Up front, there's a small rubberized grip, sitting beneath a stereo mic aperture and LED focus assisit lamp, and of course, the impressive 24-360mm f/3.5-5.4 lens. A sturdy plastic panel covers micro-USB and mini-HDMI ports on the right side, and a flimsier plastic panel covers the battery and memory card slots on the bottom. There's a metal tripod threading down there, too.
It's a well-designed camera, one that competes with its rivals in pretty much every design category. Perhaps it's a bit cramped for folks with large hands, but nothing else about the body itself detracts from the total package.
Performance & User Experience
The F550EXR offers a decent user experience thanks to its nimble backside-illuminated CMOS sensor. Aside from its positive effects on high-ISO image quality, it also lowers shot-to-shot times, speeds up autofocus, and allows quick burst shooting -- 8 frames per second at full-resolution and 11fps at medium resolution (we'll get to why medium resolution is important later).
Fujifilm also loaded the F550EXR with a laundry list of features, extras, bells, and whistles. Two of this year's most-wanted and least-available features are here: built-in GPS geo-tagging, and press-and-sweep panoramas (360 degrees, no less). The panoramas work as expected. Hold down the button, and slowly pan the camera. It churns out a really long, really skinny shot. It is cool, though, and much more user-friendly than the panorama-assist modes that most cameras use.
The GPS is as well implemented as users can expect, on equal footing with the other GPS-enabled cameras we've seen this year -- that is to say, hit or miss. It hits in wide-open areas and misses in built-up areas. It works best when the GPS is set to Permanently On (the GPS unit pings the satellite periodically, even when the camera is off). It drains the battery, but it's better than waiting to reconnect at every power-on.
Plenty of manual controls await hands-on users. Alongside Auto, EXR Auto, Advanced modes, and some scene presets, the standard Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Manual Exposure modes (PASM) all have their own slots on the mode dial. It's the only travel zoom in production that supports RAW capture, a feature that is sure to persuade some enthusiasts to choose this camera over its several worthy competitors.
What might frustrate those enthusiasts, though, is the glacial pace at which the F550EXR writes RAW images to the card -- sometimes as many as five seconds, incapacitating the camera meanwhile. The overall interface can be frustrating, too. Some key adjustments are buried in the second or third page of the shooting menu, or even in the setup menu, while some less-important ones are front-and-center. Users will ultimately learn to live with the setup, but after reviewing several Fujis in the past few years and not seeing a marked improvement over time, we'd like to see them re-work the user experience.
The F550EXR's NP-50 battery is rated for 300 shots per charge, though this number is notably lower when GPS is set to Permanently On. Some users have complained of rapid draining, but Fujifilm already patched this issue in a firmware update. Even with the GPS-related battery drain, it's a longer-lasting battery than several of its competitors, which are rated somewhere around the 200 or 220-shot mark.
Image & Video Quality
This gets complicated, so get comfortable. Let's start with the regular 16-megapixel Auto mode. In bright conditions, shots are well-exposed and detailed, sure to make most shooters happy most of the time. Some noise creeps in around the ISO 400 mark, though shots are still usable at medium or medium-large sizes up through ISO 1600. The F550 supports sensitivities up to ISO 12800, but the image quality takes a big hit as colors desaturate and details turn to mush. Based on what we've seen from other travel zooms based around CMOS sensors this year, this is pretty much the status quo. Nothing shocking, though the results would likely be better if the megapixel count was lower.
But this camera has a trick up its sleeve. The F550EXR comes alive in -- surprise -- EXR mode. It kicks the processor into overdrive, so to speak. EXR mode has three speeds: Resolution Priority, D-Range Priority, and High ISO & Low Noise. The latter two modes drop the pixel count down to 8 megapxels, but those reduced-res shots are the secret ringers that help the F550EXR stand out.
For the few readers that are unfamiliar with the megapixel myth, here's a short version: The word "megapixel" sounds cool. In marketing, to sound cool is divine. Good marketing can influence even the savviest consumers, but most consumers are un-savvy. When an un-savvy camera buyer hears the cool-sounding word "megapixel," they believe that more is better. This is not the case. 8 to 10 megapixels is all that anyone needs. Any more than that is unnecessary, even detrimental. While almost all cameras do allow the option to store medium or small shots, those shots are usually just compressed versions of full-res shots; there's not really a quality boost. We applaud Fujifilm for giving users the option to trade some resolution for a better-looking picture.
When the F550EXR drops down to 8 megapixels, whether its in D-Range Priority, High ISO & Low Noise, or even one of the PASM modes, just shot at the medium ('M') size, shots are clearer than their full-sized counterparts (in similar shooting situations, that is). Since it controls noise quite well, the F550EXR is a solid low-light shooter. Most advanced compacts still outperform it, but the results are actually quite nice. It doesn't suffer from the same washed-out coloring that a number of other CMOS-based travel zooms do -- colors seem pretty natural to our eyes -- so it's a nice daylight shooter as well. Know this camera, work within its limitations, and the results will impress.
Though the explanations are not readily apparent in the manual, we can make some assumptions about how the F550EXR accomplishes this feat, based on what we know about Fujifilm's older EXR models. In D-Range Priority, it's likely the the camera combines two shots -- one overexposed, one underexposed -- to balance the highlights and shadows in a frame. This technique is often known as high-dynamic range (HDR) photography, or multi-shot noise reduction. In High ISO & Low Noise mode and perhaps PASM mode, M size, the F550 uses "pixel binning." It's an advanced concept, but it has to do with the how pixels are arranged on the sensor. Good pixels stay, bad pixels go, and the processor fills in the gaps surprisingly well.
So in bright, beautiful conditions, feel free to shoot at full resolution. But when the going gets tough, reduce the resolution. We found that EXR Auto mode generally does a good job of picking the appropriate setting most of the time, though as mentioned, it's possible to get very good results shooting at medium resolution in the hands-on modes.
It's also worth noting that the F550EXR supports RAW capture as well, so even if the 8-megapixel JPEGs still leave something to be desired, there's always the option to put on some elbow grease and do the processing yourself.
Beyond all the sensor-based madness, the F550EXR is mostly free from lens-based image-quality problems, too. Purple and green fringing are only sometimes noticeable in areas of high contrast. Distortion is well handled, even at the extreme settings (24mm wide angle, or 360mm telephoto).
All in all, we're very happy with the F550EXR's image quality. It isn't some miraculous, ground-breaking pocket camera, but it's darn good. We'll call it the best in the travel zoom class this year. Haters are going to hate no matter what; they'll try to discredit this camera because it halves its pixel count to get its best results. They can grumble all they want, but anyone who can approach it with an open mind should be pretty happy with the shots.
Video mode, on the other hand, is troubling. The F550EXR shoots 1080p HD video, which is always great, but two issues hamper the experience. 1) The F550EXR focus-hunts mercilessly, stopping on its subject only after a few trips back and forth from blurryland. Center AF mode controls the problem, but can't prevent it. 2) At any considerable zoom range, videos suffer from frame wave. The picture wobbles like a desert mirage. It looks amateurish, just not something you should ever see in a serious camera. Whether these problems matter is up to personal preference. Stationary subjects in bright environments look great, so if that's the extent of a user's video-recording needs, fine. Fujifilm could conceivably correct this issue with an additional firmware update, but it has not rolled out yet.
The Fujifilm F550EXR is one of the best travel zoom cameras of 2011. It just takes some practice, patience and know-how to unleash its potential. For that very reason, its appeal might be limited. And there are some legitimate issues, such as the slow RAW capture, poor video mode, and occasionally frustrating interface. But anyone who gives it the time it needs will find a great camera with tons of hands-on control, an excellent feature set, and the best image quality in its class.
Its little brother, the F500EXR is also certainly worth a look. It's basically the same camera, just without GPS, RAW capture, or a few other insignificant features. At launch (a scant four weeks ago), the F550EXR cost $350 and the F500EXR about $300. Now it's more like $310 and $290, so the savings aren't really notable anymore. Do whatever makes you happy.
And if you do like the idea of a travel zoom, but aren't sure if you're ready to settle on the F550EXR -- that's fine -- we highly recommend the Canon SX230HS. It lacks RAW capture, but does have a GPS unit, speedy CMOS sensor, long zoom range (14x, but it starts at 28mm), and great image quality -- and it's more user friendly.


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CakeSpy Note: OMG! The 46th Annual Pillsbury Bake-Off is coming! Since I so deeply loved attending the 45th Bake-Off, I thought I would get you excited early by sharing some of the finalists' recipes. Narrowed down from zillions of entries, I'll profile some of the 100 finalists--but of course, based on the subject matter of this site, I will focus on sweets! You can follow them by clicking the bakeoff tag below the post to see which ones have been posted so far. Enjoy!
These sweet treats are a sure-fire recipe for success. They have so much going for them:
- Strawberries and cream are a match made in heaven, not to mention the fashionable style of a cartoon icon.
- Cream Puffs are delicious and delicate.
- And when it comes to baked goods, cream cheese makes just about any flavor richer, creamier, tangier, and tastier.
See? I've bullet-pointed the reasons why these scientifically rule, so it's now fact.
These Strawberry cream cheese cream puffs were dreamed up by Dawn Logterman of Verona, Wisconsin, who says "Who doesn't love strawberries and cream? Here's a tasty way to serve up the combo."
Simple but sweet, and they come together in just 30 minutes of active time. Score!
Here's the recipe.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Cream Puffs Recipe
Prep Time: 30 Min Total Time: 1 Hr 30 Min Makes: 12 servings
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup Pillsbury BEST® All Purpose Flour
- 4 eggs
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Strawberry Preserves
- 1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 1tablespoon powdered sugar
- Heat oven to 400°F. Line large cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- In 2-quart saucepan, heat 1 cup water, the butter and 1/4 teaspoon salt to boiling over medium-high heat. With wooden spoon, stir in flour. Reduce heat to low; beat vigorously about 1 minute or until mixture forms a ball. Remove from heat. Beat in 1 egg at a time, beating vigorously after each addition until mixture is smooth and glossy. Drop dough by 1/4 cupfuls, 3 inches apart on cookie sheet, forming 12 mounds.
- Bake 30 to 40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. Remove from pan to cooling rack; prick side of each puff with tip of sharp knife to release steam. Cool completely, about 20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in medium bowl, beat cream cheese and preserves with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Fold in whipped topping until combined; refrigerate.
- Just before serving, cut each puff in half horizontally. Spoon about 1/3 cup cream cheese mixture into bottom half of each puff. Place tops over filling. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. Serve immediately. Store in refrigerator.


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Yeah, later on I'll start making stickies and stuff, but right now I honestly didn't feel like it.
So, if you go to Sushi Database every day, like a good reader, you probably saw this filler:
Now, for those of you who don't understand what this means, I will explain. I am going to do one of these for each letter of the alphabet, and each will be about a character (or real person, even) who uses that letter as his or her name. Honoriffics (such as Prof. or Mr.) do not count so long as the actual name is one letter long.
Now, I've already found examples of names for (almost) every letter of the alphabet, but some of them are obscure and sucky. So! I am asking you readers to help me out! Go forth across the Internet and search for one-letter names. Post information on whatever names you find. If the name you find is the best of that letter, I will use it and credit you.


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Vancouver - Hockey
Vancouver - Hockey
Our company, and the production and final product being this bandana, are in no way produced by or associated with the team, organization, entity or character displayed on the fabric. This bandana is handcrafted and independently made with fabric purchased from a licensed distributor.
Neon yellow is the recommended thread color.


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Trailer Tuesday - Teta, Alf Marra (Grandma, A Thousand Times)
I've talked about Teta Alf Marra (Grandma, A Thousand Times) before, which premiered at the Doha Tribeca Film Festival last October and ended up winning the Audience Award for Best Documentary and a Jury Special Mention for its director Mahmoud Kaabour.
Since then, Teta, Alf Marra was at the Carthage Film Festival, returned to Doha to be screened at the opening of MATHAF: Arab Museum of Modern Arts and it will have its European premiere later this month at the International Film Festival of Rotterdam.
But the main reason I am featuring Teta, Alf Marra in this week's Trailer Tuesday is because it's finally getting its UAE premiere. It will be screened in Abu Dhabi on Thursday, 13th January at The National Theatre. It's on for one night only, but I hope more dates will be added soon.
Entrance is free and there will be free transportation provided from Dubai and back on thejamjar's ArtBus. Details on how to register and attend is added after the trailer.
Teta Kaabour is an 83-year old family matriarch and sharp-witted queen bee of an old Beiruti quarter. She's been gripped as of late by the silence of her once-buzzing household where she raised children and grandchildren. Resigned to Argileh smoking and day-long coffee drinking on a now-empty balcony, Teta now invokes the deepest memories of her violinist husband who died twenty years ago. She claims a preparedness to re-unite with him.
Filmmaker Mahmoud Kaabour, Teta's favorite grandson and the bearer of his grandfather's full name, has also been pre-occupied for years with the memory of his grandfather. Prior to his death, the late violinist had audio taped heart-wrenching violin improvisations in the privacy of his room in that same flat. That music, along with the details of his long career playing with the Arab world's most famous divas, remains unpublished. The filmmaker's anguish is compounded at the thought that this personal and cultural heritage, as well as grandma's own stories, rare recipes, and naughty humor, will go with her when she parts this life.
"Teta, Alf Marra" brings together grandfather, grandmother, and grandson in a playful magic-realist documentary that aims to defy a past death and a future one. It documents with great intimacy the larger-than-life character of Teta Kaabour, her telling of the trials of her violinist husband and his Beirut, as well as her imaginings of what awaits her beyond death. All while the filmmaker constantly switches roles between the film's silent creator, Teta's grandson in front of the camera, and a re-enactor of his late grandfather. Meanwhile, the deceased violinist circles them with his seven violin improvisations that serve as the impetus of the film and its soundtrack.
Event details:
Date: Thursday, 13th January 2011
Venue: The National Theathre, Abu Dhabi (location map)
RSVP: communications[at]twofour54[dot]com
If you want to go on the ArtBus from Dubai, reserve your seat by contacting one of the following:
Email: info[at]artinthecity[dot]com
Phone: +9714 3417303


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I'm a 11-year-old resident of Irvine, California who loves mathematics. Let me tell you, I really like math. Calculations are really easy for me, but that's not it. I also get straight A's on all the other subjects like science, which is my second favorite subject, reading, music, social studies, and more. I'm a guy who wants to handle statistics when I grow up, or I could be a chemist. I am also eager for a great future. My name is Omar Mughal, and that's about me!
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How Information Changes Consumer Behavior And How Consumer Behavior Determines Corporate Strategy
Professor of Operations and Information Management
The Wharton School
University of Pennsylvania
November 6, 2009
Alter Hall 405, 1000am – 1130am
Information availability has increased consumers' informedness, the degree to which they know what is available in the marketplace, with precisely which attributes and at precisely what price. This informedness has altered the demand side of market behavior: customers now discount more heavily when comparable products are available from competitors and when products do not meet their wants, needs, cravings and longings, but they no longer discount as heavily when purchasing unfamiliar products. Changes in the demand side are producing comparable changes in the supply side: firms earn less than their expectations when competing in traditional mass market fat spots, while earning far more than previously when entering newly created resonance marketing sweet spots. We trace the impact of hyperdifferentiation and resonance marketing on strategy, with a clear progression from a limited number of fat spots, through reliance upon line extensions, and ultimately to fully differentiated market sweet spots.
For a copy of the full paper, click here.


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The Grinch
|Eisenheim Phileas Christofferson Grinch
Eisenheim Grinch in his Santa disguise.
|31 October 1890
Whoville, New York, USA
|25 December 2008 (aged 118)
The North Pole, Canada
|Other names
|The Grinch, Ungrinch the Grinch, MC Pauly G
|Deity, Rapper
|Known for
|Stealing Christmas
Eisenheim Phileas Christofferson Grinch (commonly known as the Grinch) is the second most prominent figure in the Christmas religion behind the patron saint of breaking and entering, Santa Claus. Conversely, the Grinch is known in most Christmasian circles as the patron saint of stealing. He is also considered by followers of this religion as a Satan-like figure, hell-bent on destroying all the righteousness produced by the godlike figure of Claus. There is an ongoing debate as to whether or not the Grinch is the most evil figure in the Christmas religion, as he is in high contention for this position with Krampus, Ebenezer Scrooge, and Steve Finch.
Before his rise to saint status, Eisenheim Grinch gained notoriety through his many attempts to steal Christmas and thwart Santa Claus. His attempts have even garnered enough attention to be broadcast on international news and cause the Grinch to be placed on America's most wanted list over the 9000th position. During the early 1980s, the Grinch became a born again Christian with the help of missionary David "the Cat in the Hat" Spade and sought a new life without stealing and Satan worship, changing his name to Ungrinch the Grinch. After witnessing the death of the Easter Bunny in the Great Helicopter Crash of 1987, Grinch swore that he would never believe in God again. Returning to his old Eisenheim Grinch persona, the Grinch sought to steal Christmas again.
Most recently, he has adopted the alter ego of MC Pauly G in response to Snoop Lion's spiritual journey into Rastafarianism. The Grinch has since stated that he no longer wishes to steal presents, only to spread joy through his musical career. His debut album as Pauly G, Green With Gangrene, has spawned hit singles such as Robin Laid an Egg, Smoke da Weed, and a cover of Wannabe by the Pussycat Dolls.
Early life[edit]
According to ancient Christmasian manuscripts, Eisenheim Phileas Christofferson Grinch was born in the year of our Lord 1890 to parents Joe Paterno and Joe Pesci, the actors who portrayed the principal antagonists of the 2009 hit film Home Alone. It is also said that the Grinch was produced by a virgin birth of Satan, though neither Paterno, nor Pesci have acknowledged this.
Eisenheim was raised in the financially unstable ghetto of New York City known by locals as "Whoville" or "Who Wants to Lick my Cheeksville". His two fathers were far too underpaid to buy him any Christmas presents, which caused the young Grinch to develop a hatred of the holidays. Eisenheim was quoted in a profanity-laden 2005 interview with Craig Ferguson on NBC's The Tonight Show, saying, on the topic of his childhood, "It was a damn rough shitlife to go through. Christmas was the fucking worst 'cause I had all these cunts making fun of me and shit of that nature because I was poor. I didn't get any pressies. Just cheap motherfucking old raunchy old fucking fuckitty-bye fat cakes. And the fat man never gave me a fucking present. He only delivers to Christians, the twat."
Stealing Christmas[edit]
At the age of 45, the Grinch decided to put a stop to what he considered to be the biased attitude of Santa Claus and the Church of Christmas. The Christmas Bible written by Clement C. Moore details the events of the Grinch's descent into Satan worship:
"And truly I sayeth unto you, the Grinch hath made a pact with the Beast. And from that day, thy presents shall be taken, and thy wives shall be raped, and Christmas shall be stolen. He hath descended into darkness to join the likes of Krampus and Steve Finch. Repent, lest thou endeth up on the Naughty List of the Lord thy God, Saint Nicholas."
The Grinch's first attempt at stealing presents left by Jonas Nicklasson happened on Christmas Eve of 2000. Over 9000 homes were broken into and all presents and decorations were stolen. A warrant was issued for the arrest of the Grinch by every country considering Christmas as a national religion. The Grinch escaped to his secret lair in Mount Crumpit and was never seen again until the following Christmas.
Conversion to Christianity[edit]
The Grinch was reportedly approached by missionaries Cindy Lou Who and David Spade one Christmas Eve. They allegedly convinced Grinch that Christmas is about giving rather than getting. When that seemed not to be enough, they smoked marijuana together, after which the Grinch was quoted as saying, "Grinch understand David much better now." The Grinch became a born again believer and sought to spread love around the world with music.
Death of the Easter Bunny and aftermath[edit]
Eisenheim Grinch was known to be good friends with the Easter Bunny after his Christian conversion, as Bunny was also adamant about spreading love to the masses by delivering chocolate eggs to an already overweight country. They regularly attended parties and charity banquets together to help promote peace on Earth and goodwill to men.
On Easter Sunday, the Easter Bunny was killed in a tragic helicopter accident above New York City. News of the incident quickly reached the Grinch who reportedly went into a fit of alcohol and depression that lasted two weeks, locking himself in his master bedroom. When authorities later examined the room, they allegedly found bits of chewed up beer bottles, dirty socks, and candy cane powder all over the bed and carpet. The Grinch himself had fled the premises to return to his old base of operations atop Mount Crumpit.
In a 2002 statement during a press conference, the Grinch confirmed that he had indeed given up Christianity, opting instead to return to his old present stealing roots. When questioned by a reporter as to whether or not the Easter Bunny's death had any influence on his change of life, Grinch simply refused to comment on the matter. Later on, however, in his 2007 autobiography How the Grinch Stole Christmas: The Story of How I Stole Christmas, he admitted that Bunny's death had played a pivotal role in his descent into madness.
MC Pauly G[edit]
In the years following Easter Bunny's death, the Grinch had found himself heavily addicted to alcohol, cocaine, and cannabis, as well as pornography, which he used to occupy himself in the 364 days between Christmases. Knowing that he was in serious trouble, Grinch sought help through reggae music, which he claimed would calm him in his Christmas-hating fits that he would allegedly take ten to fifteen times a day. The Grinch soon discovered the new music of Snoop Lion, inspired by the singer's conversion to Rastafarianism. Inspired by Snoop Lion's spiritual journey, the Grinch decided to follow suit and become a full-on Rasta.
"I was...like, give me a religion where you could still smoke weed and be close to God. That was all I wanted. Maybe I just wasn't accepted because they were all like haters and haters going to hate, you know what I'm saying? Because it makes sense. And it just made sense, just like that to me. That's all that matters, so what matters is all that matters, you know? I was inspired by the Almighty Jah to start spreading the love again man."
Grinch returned to the music-making business under the name MC Pauly G. He has since released his debut album Green With Gangrene which borrows from the old styles of reggae and blues. The album was released to generally positive reviews from music critics, with Adam Levine calling it "a true breakthrough in awesome music, and it's sure better than Reincarnated."
Pauly G has also been confirmed to be writing an original song for the upcoming Trailer Park Boys movie. The Grinch later tweeted the name of the track to be "Ashtrays and Heartbreaks".
On Christmas Day of 2008, the Grinch was found dead in his room by his dog Max. According to police reports, a sharpened candy cane was embedded in the victim's chest. Also, a note was found on the bed next to the body that read "That's for taking my Tony Hawk: Pro Skater, asshole." 500 pounds of marijuana were also found on the premises. Police deemed the incident murder in the first degree, and investigation immediately began to find the killer. A hoof print identification confirmed the killer to be none other than Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer who had been seeking revenge on the Grinch since the Great Christmas Caper of 2000.
Eisenheim Grinch was interred on January 1st, 2009 at the North Pole, the pole itself being replaced with a grave marker.
Rudolf was later found and apprehended by the authorities and is currently serving his 26-year sentence in a Los Angeles prison.
Personal life[edit]
Eisenheim Grinch has been married six times, first to Rita MacGrinch (1924-1931), then to Alan Moore (1955-1985), Ian McDiarmid (1986-1987), Sheldon Cooper (1988-1996), Cindy Lou Who (1997-2001), and finally Grinch Grincherson from 2002 to his death in 2008.
The Grinch considers himself to be a religious man. He first belonged to the Church of Satan before being converted to Christianity. He then returned to Satanism after the death of the Easter Bunny. Upon becoming a Rasta, Grinch also adopted the practice of Santaism.
Struggling with drug addiction all his life, the Grinch has admitted that marihuana has basically decided the entire course of his life.
Role in religion[edit]
The Grinch has become a prominent figure in the Christmas religion. He is considered one of the four devils of Christmas, along with Scrooge, Krampus, and Steven Finch. Pope Claus of the Christmasian Church has officially designated the Grinch as the demon of Christmas Eve, with Finch, Krampus, and Scrooge being the demons of Christmas Day, Tips Eve, and Boxing Day, respectively.
For his transgressions against the Christmas Spirit, the Grinch has been condemned to the deepest circle of the giant Christmas pudding in the sky, which is considered to be so hot and distasteful that it is unbearable to a mortal soul.
The Grinch is used by parents in a similar manner to Krampus. It is said that bad children will be taken away in the Grinch's sack to be raped and then have to listen to a giant monkey playing the cymbals for the rest of eternity.
Many Christmasians believe the Grinch to be forgiven of his sins because of his giving up stealing presents later in his life. Many radicals also believe that the Grinch became a martyr upon death and wish to replace him as the Christmas devil with Rudolf.
The Papacy of Christmas maintains that the Grinch has never been cleansed of his sins, as he smoked far too much pot.
- 2012 - Green With Gangrene (posthumous release)
- 2013 - Ashtrays and Heartbreaks (non-album single; posthumous release)
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Missy Franklin got the Americans rolling. Then Katie Ledecky really fired 'em up. By the end of the night, the U.S. team was awash in medals at the world swimming championships.
Missy Franklin got the Americans rolling. Then Katie Ledecky really fired 'em up.
By the end of the night, the U.S. team was awash in medals at the world swimming championships.
Franklin and Ledecky each won her second gold medal of the meet, Matt Grevers led a 1-2 American finish in the backstroke, and there was plenty of reason to celebrate for the red, white and blue on Tuesday.
"We've had an absolutely incredible evening," Franklin said. "I'm so proud of all my teammates."
In all, the Americans claimed three golds, two silvers and a bronze — a strong meet for most nations, certainly quite a haul in a mere two hours.
"A big night for us," said Bob Bowman, head coach of the U.S. men's team.
Everyone was raving about Ledecky, only 16 but already well on her way to becoming one of the country's great distance swimmers. She obliterated the world record in the 1,500-meter freestyle. It may be a non-Olympic event for the women but that did nothing to diminish the magnitude of her accomplishment.
After going stroke-for-stroke with Denmark's Lotte Friis most of the race, with both well under world-record pace, Ledecky really turned it on over the final 200 and beat the mark by more than 6 seconds. Friis also went under the old record, and all it got her was silver.
"It was motivating watching Katie destroy the world record from the ready room," Grevers said. "That really got us psyched."
Franklin cruised through a demanding double, easily winning the 100 backstroke before returning about an hour later to post the second-fastest time in the semifinals of the 200 free.
"It's tough, but it's fun," the 18-year-old said. "I'm super happy with my 100 back. It really got me pumped up for the 200 free."
Grevers touched ahead of teammate David Plummer in the 100 backstroke, and there were Americans on the podium in all five finals. Conor Dwyer picked up a silver behind France's Yannick Agnel in the 200 free, and Jessica Hardy chipped in with a bronze in the 100 breaststroke won by Lithuania's Ruta Meilutyte.
The only disappointment for the U.S. was Ryan Lochte, who labored to a fourth-place finish in the 200 free.
"It wasn't my night," the three-time Olympian said. "But I have to put it behind me because I still have many races to swim."
He hopes to compete in seven events in Barcelona, despite not being able to train as much as usual this year while taking part in his reality television show, "What Would Ryan Lochte Do?"
"It was kind of a tough swim for him," Bowman said. "He has obviously not had a season with his characteristic preparation. But he's racing tough. He'll be back tomorrow. He'll be fine."
Ledecky is clearly in top form. She nearly broke the world record in winning the 400 free before leaving no doubt about the 1,500, touching in a time 15 minutes, 36.53 seconds — nearly a half-lap ahead of the line superimposed on the video screen marking the pace of Kate Ziegler's mark from six years ago, 15:42.54.
"She's probably made in the same factory as Michael Phelps," marveled Mereia Belmonte of Spain, who finished far back in fourth.
Friis took silver in 15:38.88, with New Zealand's Lauren Boyle grabbing the bronze.
"I knew that world record was going down tonight, but 6 seconds!" Franklin said. "All of us were totally in awe."
Ledecky looks even stronger than she did last year while winning Olympic gold in the 800 free, a stunning breakthrough for someone barely known on the international stage.
Naturally, after that performance, she arrived in Barcelona dealing with the weight of hefty expectations. Plus, she decided to take on an exhausting program that also includes the 800 free.
No problem.
"I knew we were going pretty fast, and I figured that whoever was going to come out on top was probably going to get the world record," said Ledecky, who's going into her junior year of high school. "So I just had to be careful not to push it too early or push it too late and just touch the wall first."
Franklin breezed to victory in the 100 back in 58.42 seconds. After capturing four golds and a bronze at the London Olympics, the recent high school graduate is trying to join Phelps as the only swimmers to win eight events at a major championship. She is now 2 for 2 at the Palau Sant Jordi, adding to her gold in the 4x100 free relay.
Australia's Emily Seebohm won silver and Japan's Aya Terakawa bronze.
After the medal ceremony, Franklin hustled off to get ready for the 200 free semifinals. She barely qualified for the final of that event in London and was edged out for a bronze medal by one-hundredth of a second.
Franklin has spent much of the past year working to improve her freestyle, and the results showed. Franklin easily qualified for the final in 1:56.05, trailing only world-record holder Federica Pellegrini of Italy.
"Hopefully, I will keep the momentum going," Franklin said. "Hopefully, Team USA will, too."
Agnel pushed the pace right from the start and never let up. He touched in 1:44.20, a full body length ahead of the field, setting off another wild celebration from the large French contingent in the crowd.
Instead of Lochte, the American winning a medal was Dwyer, a friend and former training partner of Phelps. Danila Izotov of Russia took bronze. Lochte missed a spot on the podium by 0.05.
Agnel is now a training partner of Dwyer's, having moved recently to the North Baltimore Aquatic Club to work with Bowman, who was Phelps' longtime coach.
"I am so surprised," said Agnel, the reigning Olympic champion. "I did not expect such a result."
Grevers showed he's still the man to beat in the 100, back after winning gold at London. The American was second at the turn but overtook France's Jeremy Stravius to win in 52.93. Plummer also got past Stravius for the silver, while the Frenchman settled for bronze.
Meilutyte just missed the world record she set the previous night in the semifinals of the 100 breast, winning in 1:04.42. Russia's Yuliya Efimova was next, while Hardy — the former world-record holder — pulled out a bronze.
"Maybe the excitement and wanting to win altered my stroke," Meilutyte said. "I was dying toward the end of it. There's still things to improve, which is great."
It certainly would've been hard for the American team to improve on this night.


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The Battle of Newport Barracks might have just been a footnote in the Civil War. But some Carteret County residents don�t want to see the community�s role go unnoticed.
The Battle of Newport Barracks might have just been a footnote in the Civil War. But some Carteret County residents don�t want to see the community�s role go unnoticed.
The Battle of Newport Civil War Memorial Park will be celebrated this weekend on a half-acre plot at 220 Chatham St. in Newport.
Local volunteers have been putting sweat equity into building the park, which will recreate features of the original barracks that were burned to the ground on Feb. 2, 1864.
One of those volunteers is Michael Bell, whose family goes back to the time when Newport was called Bell�s Corner. In his family tree is Josiah Bell, a confederate spy, which is one of the reasons he has put so much time into the park project.
�I felt like being that my family probably had certain aspirations to help burn the place, I felt like I ought to help build it back,� Bell said as he stood next to a log structure erected to look like one of the original barracks buildings.
�As far as history goes, Newport has probably had more than any other place in the county,� Bell said.
Gerald Mann, chief architect of the project, said many know little about the battle he called the largest in Carteret County during the war.
�History is very important for our young people to learn about, so we want to bring history alive here in the park,� he said. �We want to tell the story of the Civil War, and particular, the story of Newport Barracks.�
Mann has personal connections to the war just like Bell. His great-grandfather fought in the battle of New Bern; and his great- great-grandfather, a Baptist minister, was thrown into a Confederate prison for preaching to Union soldiers.
Mann said the project wouldn�t be possible without volunteer help and donations.
�It�s going to take us a while because it�s all being done by volunteer help and almost all contributed materials and paid for with individual contributions,� he said of the project. �We�ve got a little help, from the town, no help from the county and none from the state, so this is being done by personal money.�
Volunteers Joseph Bell, Russell Bell and Jonathan Stokes built the park�s first structure, the log barracks building.
�They kind of gave their Christmas up to help build it,� Bell said. �All of us helped, but this kind of thing is what makes the difference. Without these young men, this wouldn�t have happened.�
The building is like one prominently shown in a photograph of Newport Barracks when it was occupied by Company K of the Ninth Vermont after a snowfall.
Part of the exhibit that is to be unveiled this weekend includes a cannon . Confederate and Union flags will be flown, and an old section of railroad trestle donated by the North Carolina Railroad will be on display.
�We�re going to have commemorations to the Union soldiers that were taken captive and put in prison in Wilmington,� Mann said. �We�re going to have a commemoration of all Carteret County men that served and one for the state and another to speak about the men that served throughout the war.
�We�ll have couple of battlefield graves and some crude markers on them. We�re going to have tents on the back, samples of all the tents used by the Union and the Confederates. There�s a limit to how much we can get between now and next weekend.�
Other features will be added to the park in the coming years. They include a covered wagon, more reconstructed barracks, a cook building, a railroad hand car, and other reproductions of period pieces.
�It will take the community to make sure that it works,� Bell said.
The weekend�s events begin today with the fourth annual Newport Heritage Dinner at St. James United Methodist Church Community Life Center. Dinner is from 5 to 7 p.m. with barbecue chicken, potato salad, green beans, rolls, dessert and a drink for a $10 donation. Tickets are available at the Newport Historic Museum, which is located on Chatham Street.
Entertainment is scheduled for 5 to 9 p.m. and includes Morris Willis and Company, Pickin� and Grinnin � and others. Mann is scheduled to speak about the project at 7 p.m.
On Saturday, living history characters will be on the grounds of the museum and park from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and include members of the 5th North Carolina troops, Ellis� Battery and a contingent from Pennsylvania. The museum will be open all day and refreshments will be available.
Living history will again fill the grounds of the museum and the park from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. A dedication of the park is scheduled for 2 p.m. with a battlefield tour to follow the ceremony at about 3:30 p.m. The museum will be open throughout the day and refreshments will be available.
For more information about the event, contact Dianne Johnson, executive director of the Newport Historical Museum, at 252-241-1793


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We're glad you're here. Though we've just met, we know more than a little about you. How? We know you like fine wine, and that says a great deal about a person.
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Why the name Row Eleven Wine Company?
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We give our customers the best wine at the lowest possible price… a taste of the finest California vineyards that costs well below what you'd normally pay for the same quality. Row Eleven wines will expand your world.
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Founder/Winemaker: Richard de los Reyes
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135 3rd St, Ste 100,
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