text:
"Nine is young," Judy Blume cautioned me.
The original kid whisperer wasn't exactly vetoing my plan to bring my eldest daughter to a special reception and screening for "Tiger Eyes," the theatrical adaptation of Blume's 1981 novel about a teenage girl grappling with the sudden death of her father. But she certainly wasn't endorsing it either.
"Kids don't take in what they don't want to," the 75-year-old said. "But you see that father on the floor, dying. That's really heavy. We had a 10-year-old in the San Francisco screening and she got hysterical. She loved it, but she cried and cried and cried. [Your daughter] is young for this one. She's going into fourth grade? It's very young."
If I was wedded to the idea, Blume said, I should at least talk to her about the film before coming. Then, giving me a bit more of an opening, she added that even if "Tiger Eyes" may not be the most appropriate film for a kid who likes playing with dolls and Legos, it wouldn't permanently hurt her, either. "I don't think it damages them," she said. "It's playing. It's 'Bang Bang.'"
I was torn: My daughter has read "Blubber," "Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing," "Freckle Juice" and "Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great." Here was a chance for her not just to see a Judy Blume film but also to meet the writer in person, an author who is starting to affect her life, just as Blume did mine 30 years ago. Keep in mind, this was also a rare instance of my daughter dying to meet someone not on the Disney Channel.
Could I disregard the qualms of my childhood idol? Could I ignore the advice of the woman I trusted to get me through so many trying times growing up?
If you're me, the answer is yes.
When we arrived at the event, Blume took one look at my daughter and through gritted teeth said to us, "You staying for the movie?"
Lead actress Willa Holland, 21, entered the patio behind the theater. "Don't you think she's too young to see this?" Blume asked quietly, pointing at my shy daughter, who was glued to my right hip.
"What have I done?" I thought. Not only was I risking scarring my daughter with this on-screen depiction of death and sadness, but now Blume — whom I had admired since "Blubber" entered my consciousness in the early 1980s — was judging my parenting skills.
(I flashed back to a recent bad call I'd made when it came to my kids and movies. Thinking they'd love the music, I let them watch the first 40 minutes of "
Perhaps Blume's opposition was another one of her subversive methods to get children hooked on her stories. She already told me that she suggests to mothers my age, women who grew up on her novels, to slyly pass along her texts, never admitting the special places they hold in our collective hearts.
"I say do not tell them these were your favorite books growing up because it will turn them right off," she said. "I say if you can afford to buy the new cover, buy the new cover, leave them around and occasionally say, 'I don't think you're ready for this.'"
It's a great strategy and played into my thinking that my eldest could handle this grown-up night of movie viewing.
As it turned out, she could. I made sure to give her every detail of the film beforehand. And she asked questions all the way through. Sure, it eliminated the suspense that energizes most moviegoers, but it made the movie all the easier for her 9-year-old brain to absorb.
The movie ended. The lights came up, and she started dancing in the aisle. "I met Judy Blume. I met Judy Blume."
She is now knee-deep in "Starring Sally J. Freedman as Herself."
Mission accomplished.


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What If We Put Lie Detectors On Politicians During Debates?
from the it-wouldn't-work dept
Some challengers to an Indiana congressman have come up with an amusing suggestion for how to deal with this, with two challengers to the incumbent agreeing to wear lie detectors during a planned debate. The incumbent has refused, with his party chair calling it ridiculous.
Of course, it's all really a stunt to get some press coverage for the challengers. As polygraph experts well know, a polygraph in a debate setting would be useless. Beyond not always being perfectly reliable, polygraphs are designed to work under very specific circumstances, not in a public debate setting, where the results would be entirely meaningless.

subset: commoncrawl


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It's always nice to remember an old friend or think of the times when life seemed so easy. Smile down takes us away to a better place, away to a better time. From start to finish this track will have your heart longing for good friends, and missing the ones that aren't with us anymore. Enjoy!
Our BEATS are made and sold exclusively for AudioJungle. If you buy a track you may download the source files and track separations for free at Tracksmashers.com. Please contact us through AudioJungle to get a coupon code for tracksmashers.com to get the files for free.
Click HERE Once you purchase this track, there you can download the audio separations and source files.


text:
|View Poll Results: Madoka Magica - Episode 01 Rating
|Perfect 10
|9 out of 10 : Excellent
|8 out of 10 : Very Good
|7 out of 10 : Good
|6 out of 10 : Average
|5 out of 10 : Below Average
|4 out of 10 : Poor
|3 out of 10 : Bad
|2 out of 10 : Very Bad
|1 out of 10 : Painful
|Voters: 73. You may not vote on this poll
|Thread Tools
|2011-03-24, 12:55
|Link #22
a small cat
An interesting start, some character introductions and action.
The background music adds a nice feel to the scenes. I liked it, espescially when they're on their way to school.
Sudden weirdness at the last parts, I thought those cotton like things are going to chew them to death or something.
Going to watch the rest of the episodes.
|2011-05-04, 20:15
|Link #24
Segmentation fault
Join Date: Mar 2011
i've discovered a minor correction in bd release, might as well add here since i don't see it in wiki and other blogs yet.
left (tv), right(bd): this happens after mami's transformation. QB is supposedly nestled in madoka's arms. changes in the background too. =)
|2011-07-06, 14:34
|Link #25
Oh man, here we go, I'm finally undertaking the hit show of the year.
First episode was a pretty good intro to the cast. Madoka is like many magical girl leads past. Like an Usagi, Nanoha or Sakura she's kind of aloof, not really the best at anything, but has a funny likeable personality that seems to draw people to her in spite of all this.
Akemi is much like a Mamoru, Lee or Fate, coming off in her first appearance as cold and mysterious to the point where you aren't really sure who's side she's on. Like those characters she's seemingly good at everything she tries to do and has a habit of popping up at seemingly random times though clearly with some less than obvious goal in mind. Like those characters as well I kind of expect from the hints dropped in the first episode that she actually has a heart of gold and/or some destiny intertwined with the heroine (possible love interest?), but is trying to work alone because of personality issues or some other such complication that the heroine will have to resolve.
The other two girls seem like the typical faithful magical girl allies ala the Sailor Soldiers, but are of course close friends to Madoka in real life. Also I have noted that Madoka hasn't actually done anything combat wise....at all. I've kind of had it spoiled for me that that's supposed to be a trend for much of the series.
Overall a pretty basic Magical Girl opener (even though I'm told to anticipate it striking out on it's own path pretty soon) with the requisite character intros, but fairly enjoyable nonetheless. Though most magical girl shows that I've seen don't actually introduce what appears to be the full cast so early. Shinbo definitely couldn't resist being Shinbo in this one either, what with the architecture of the dream sequence and the fact that the city itself seems to be Shinbo inspired in it's architecture. Also he seems to have sent some of his wild crazy visions to menace the girls at the end of the episode. Is that what the antagonists are supposed to be....cause if so I can safely say I've never seen anything like that before.
|2011-07-07, 13:55
|Link #27
Knowledge is the solution
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: St. Louis, MO
Age: 34
I always enjoy when late comers take the time to post their impressions. It does offer a refreshing POV of when a show no longer has all its 'NEW SHOW' glimmer and is only appreciated by what the series itself has to offer.
It's a shame though that you've been spoiled, but apparently it's nothing serious. Be sure to keep posting your impressions. I at least will be sure to read them.
|2011-07-12, 05:32
|Link #28
Senior Member
Join Date: Feb 2011
Location: Austria
Heh, I'm re-watching the show now, and two things happen:
1. I remembered why I loved the show from the beginning: Shinbo's animation and Kajiura's soundtrack. A match made in the twighlight zone. Seriously, from the weird dream sequence to the stylistically too epic morning scene, and then the too serene idyll... I didn't trust it then, but it's downright mean on the second time round.
2. I notice lots of details that didn't stand out the first time round, like Madoka's mom asking after her teacher. Oh, how intricate a web they were weaving from the beginning. Also, it's much easier to navigate through the show by the teme-music alone.
The show gets better on re-watching. I was sort of afraid that the magic would get lost, but it's actually more intense now. I heartily recommend a second viewing. (But maybe I'm late anyway, and whoever's still here is on the 251st viewing. )
|2012-01-15, 02:52
|Link #30
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2005
Late to this party...but I finally got around to checking this out (since people are very fond of referencing this anime when reviewing some of the more recent shows).
Nothing spectacular this first episode but I find the way they use color and imagery interesting. All of the mundane scenes seem too bright and cheerful when compared to all the odd magical stuff going on in the background. It's intentionally deceptive. So when Madoka receives that warning from Homura I feel like it should be taken seriously.
I'm guessing the magical creature can't be good with the way they have it asking Madoka to make a contract at the very end; also leaves me thinking the title for next episode is meant to be ironic.
|Thread Tools


text:
I was sleeping off jetlag and didn't race this weekend, but heard and posted about the derailer-eating mud. Frustrated with their contaminated drivetrains, I expect many Cross racers were wondering about Single Speeds and then belt-driven Single Speeds, like this one seen in Chris Mahan's photos.
Did it slip, shed the mud, or grind to a halt like a Cuisinart blending concrete? Don't know, but working on the answer.
Any readers see the bikes with belts in action?


text:
2007 Chevrolet Silverado - Engulfed
This Daily Driven Silverado is Covered in Intricate Flames
While there's nothing wrong with building a truck specifically for shows or driving on weekends, it's a whole different ball game to build a daily-driven show truck. Things that might not bother you when only driving the truck occasionally suddenly become huge annoyances, and it's tough to find the balance between practicality and custom appeal. Tony Gomez of Ivanhoe, California, tells us he wanted to build "the nicest daily driver in CenCal," so these difficulties quickly became relevant to him. Nevertheless, he pushed onward, and built something we'd say is worthy of the title of CenCal's best daily-driven truck.
The process began with a humble '07 Crew Cab Silverado, which Tony quickly brought to his friend Chris Lacy in Visalia, California. Chris stripped the truck down to its frame, which he boxed, C-notched, and painted gloss black in preparation for a new air suspension. Slam Specialties RE-7 'bags were added to the chassis, as well as Belltech spindles in front and an AVS parallel four-link out back. Kuts R Us, in Porterville, California, fabricated a custom 20-gallon fuel cell, and the Chevy's axle was narrowed eight inches in preparation for deep-dish rear wheels. The suspension upgrades were topped off by a set of 24-inch Intro Twisted Vista wheels, which would fit the truck's hot rod styling to a T.
"I love people's reactions when they find out this truck is my daily driver. Rain or shine, I never remove my billet wheels! -Tony Gomez"
Tony was pleased with the stance, but he wanted the body to touch the asphalt without a sliver of light in between. So, back at Kuts R Us, the Silverado was body-dropped 5½ inches, and the fenders were sectioned to thoroughly tuck the billet 24s. The bed was also relocated forward three-fourths of an inch, eliminating the unsightly gap behind the cab. A litany of other body mods was performed, ranging from fully shaved body panels to a new sheetmetal bed floor. The Chevy then received its eye-popping custom paint at Teo's Customs in Tulare, California. First, several coats of House of Kolor Jet Black were sprayed before the pièce de résistance was added: Lime Gold Kandy traditional flames that stretch from grille to taillights. Additional blue and yellow pinstriping around the flames, on the tailgate, and inside the cab jump off the Jet Black backdrop.
With the exterior of the truck handled, Tony focused on creating a custom look for the interior. Santo's Upholstery, in Visalia, California, wrapped the seats in soft-touch black leather with yellow stitching. Aftermath logos embroidered into the seat backs show Tony's club affiliation, and smoothed and painted dash and door panels bring in the exterior's clean style. After bolting up an Intro billet steering wheel, Tony upgraded the sound system with a 7.5-inch Farenheit head unit, Farenheit speakers, Hifonics amps, and dual Rockford Fosgate 10-inch subwoofers.
Daily driving around the Central Valley in his newly completed truck, Tony couldn't be happier. This flame-painted shocking Silverado always draws a crowd at shows, even alongside other custom vehicles, so you can imagine what kind of attention it attracts on public streets. Tony would like to thank Kuts R Us, Chris Lacy, Brett Grant, Teo Garcia at Teo's Customs, his wife and kids, his two brothers, and his fellow Aftermath members for helping him complete this project.
|Inside the Build
|Year Make Model:
|2007 Chevrolet Silverado
|Owner and City/State:
|Tony Gomez; Ivanhoe, California
|Custom cold-air intake
|Custom 5-inch with Magnaflow mufflers
|GM 10-bolt, narrowed 8 inches with Moser axles
|Front suspension:
|Boxed frame, Belltech spindles, Slam Specialties RE-7 'bags, ½-inch lines, ½-inch Parker valves
|Rear suspension:
|AVS parallel four-link, C-notch, Slam Specialties RE-7 'bags, ½-inch lines, ½-inch Parker valves
|Wheels & Tires
|Intro Twisted Vista, 24x9-inch front and 24x10-inch rear
|Fullway 255/30R24 front and 275/25R24 rear


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Orea Spa Hotel Bohemia - Mariánské Lázně
Thanks to its central location in Mariánské Lázně, comfortable rooms and newly renovated balneum centre, the Orea Spa Hotel Bohemia is a popular place to stay.The hotel is located about 300m from the spa colonnade with the Singing Fountain and the healing spring. There are 76 comfortable rooms available as well as the wellness and rehabilitation centre using the natural healing springs, the Knížecí Dvůr Restaurant offers both Czech and international cuisine, a conference lounge and a car park.Among the sights in the proximity of the hotel are the Orthodox Church of St. Vladimir and the Anglican Church. Our rooms are available to guests on the day of arrival from 14:00, and on the day of departure until 12:00.
The Orea Spa Hotel Bohemia is looking forward to your visit.


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|2007-05-13, 03:20
|Link #1
Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2006
Captain Tsubasa (TV, 1983)
If some peoples are interested, and as the project with the old team explained in the previous posts of this topic got nowhere, we finally decided to do the fansub ourself.
We're a french team subbing Captain Tsubasa from Japanese, and we think it sucks that no english subs are available for it.
First, we plan to start the original series, and this summer, to start releasing Captain Tsubasa J - World Youth (the part when Tsubasa plays in Sao Paulo's team [Brazil] and where the Japan try to be qualified to the Junior World Cup), maybe also later Shin Captain Tsubasa, we'll see (the sequel of the original series), and why not movies ?
We have 4 episodes translated for the original series (and one of the four already be done in english), and 8 episodes translated for "Captain Tsubasa J - World Youth" (the season is 12 episodes long).
So, we're searching one or two good checks in order to check spelling and grammar of the translation.
It have already be done once by a friend (american one) but I prefer to see the scripts checked one or two more times to be sure to release something good.
Encoding will be done from R2 DVD (Japanese) for all the Captain Tsubasa projets.
We'll also plan to make fansubs of "Dragon Quest - Dai no Daibouken". I have some raws with good quality (VHS RIP, but the quality is really really good for VHS, I remember I posted somes pics of them in the Dai no Daibouken topics a long time ago). Like Captain Tsubasa, we did a french sub for Japanese, and as Shining Fansubs' projet seems to be on eternal hatius, I think it could be cool to have a fansub, morever with betters RAWS.
We're also searching one or two checks for this project, and right now, we have 8 episodes translated (the series is 46 episodes long).
Don't except some releases every week for each project or something like that, but I think we can do some releases with a decent planning.
For peoples who are interested, feel free to pm me (it would be for the next weeks, the team would be created sometimes around June and so the first release, which would be "Captain Tsubasa 001").
Last edited by Hiei-; 2007-05-13 at 20:04.
|2007-05-13, 07:41
|Link #2
Senior Member
Join Date: Mar 2007
Yeah I'm extremely interested in this project and I'm more interested in the english fansubs of the first series with japanese audio.. I watched shin ct in japanese audio with french subtitles. (I understand french) plus the movies.
I think that this series deserve a lot more of attention.
But please, if you guys release it, please use mihd.net so we can directly download from the net. Bitorrent and emule for me is extremely slow .
|2007-05-13, 13:43
|Link #3
Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2006
If I use something like that, I think I would use Megaupload as I have a premium account.
Anyway, if the team goes well, we could always also make an xdcc.
Another thing. If Shinsen don't release the last episodes of Ring ni Kakero Nichibei Kessen, we will probably also do them a bit later (and maybe third season if it's aired one day and if no one plan to do them).
We only plan to do subs that are not available, of course.
We think subbing some news series or some olds series already subbed by some others groups is quite useless.
Anyway, the main project will be the original series of Captain Tsubasa (Ep. 1 is near ready, just need one or two checks and it can be encoded).
Last edited by Hiei-; 2007-05-13 at 20:05.
|2007-05-14, 02:08
|Link #5
Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2006
Yeah, you can use download managers on Megaupload (like getright).
About the seperate file, no, that sucks.
1) You have to encode/upload the good raw though, because each raw use different times plus Captain Tsubasa RAWS are hard to find so the RAW will have to be uploaded.
2) Everybody can modify the files, and so, we can't know if people which will see the episode will have the real script or not, etc...
3) The file can also be "stolen", I don't really mind to become famous lol, but I don't want to see the scripts leaked if there's a problem with someone making an encode and claiming he did it.
By the way, seperate file or not, it don't change the fact we need one or two checkers, so that's change nothing.
The only interest of it is to make MKV, but MKV also have only one "big "interest", make some dual audios and dual subs or somethings like that.
|2007-05-15, 03:04
|Link #9
Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2006
The team will be opened as soon as one or two persons who can edit the scripts (check for spelling errors and such) will propose their help.
So yeah, if it happen in the next days, the first episode will be released at the end of May/start of June.
|2007-05-15, 23:46
|Link #11
Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2006
Too bad, it seems no edit people are interested so I don't know if it'll be able to be done one day =\ (and releasing episodes with only one edit on the script isn't the best I think), but let's wait and will see.
It's a really easy task as long as your english skill is good (of course, mine isn't perfect, I'm using French in common life, not English), just need to read the translation from a .txt file and check if there are no errors, and if there some, write them in another .txt file which will be sent later to me. Then, I fix the errors and the episode can then be released.
Last edited by Hiei-; 2007-05-16 at 21:12.
|2007-05-18, 02:35
|Link #13
Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2006
I don't know, 30 minutes for a script ? Depend of your speed (and it was already corrected one time, so should be fast)
We won't do one release per week anyway so it won't be a really harassing job.
Futhermore, we're not really a team who ask members to do "x amount of work for x day", here we're working when we feel to, no pressure on schedule
|2007-05-19, 02:44
|Link #16
Senior Member
Join Date: Feb 2004
Cuz I reallllyyyy would like to watch capeta with my timing, instead of hiei's :P
|2007-05-19, 09:12
|Link #18
Senior Member
Join Date: Feb 2004
How the heck can a timer say " a timing is a timing" >_<
Oh well, whatever, dude.
|2007-05-19, 11:31
|Link #19
Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2006
Because a timing should start when the voice start and end when the voice end ? (a bit before and after for each), and with scene-timing. That's how I think of how a timing has to be at least, and I don't see other way to do it (start it far better or stop it far after wouldn't look very good).
I would understand that for a translation, but for a timing lol, whatever
Anyway, if someone have something to say about the timing once the first episode will be released, I'll listen to it, but I don't think there will be.
By the way, script sent to editing.
The episode 1 will be released as soon as the script will be edited.
I'll probably think of making an irc channel at this time.
|Thread Tools


text:
By Landon Lewis
On October 21st, 2012 40 professional tattoo artists, body piercers and studio owners convened in Harrisburg, PA for a think tank gathering. The catalyst for the meeting was the auditor general's recent announcement which proposes state legislation for tattoo studios. We were motivated to share ideas, thoughts and concerns about the status of our trade in our state…
The overwhelming consensus was that there is a need for a statewide network of professionals working in tattoo studios. The group has an interest in raising the standard of awareness, practice and advocacy statewide. We support safe and professional tattoo studios and education. Being that we are in an unregulated state and the auditor general's recommendation was quite vague, we are not currently taking a stance on the legislation. But we do see a need for a professional group to act as a state watchdog. A voice of concerned professionals prepared to act, should our state decide to enact new laws. Our goal is NOT to usher in legislation, but to have a coherent voice ready to respond in the event of legislative action.
There was a unanimous decision to start the process of forming a group, and we settled on a temporary name, The Professional Tattoo Studio Safety Coalition of PA. We hope to simplify our moniker over the next few months, and we will be employing a forum for communication, online at www.patattoosafety.com. All decisions were reached through group discussion followed by a show of hands vote. Our chosen course of action was based on a majority, or near majority agreement.
We are planning our second meeting for mid to late November, where we intend to further define and structure our organization. From there we hope to take meetings to other geographical locations across our state, and seek out like-minded professionals interested in joining our efforts. All tattoo artists, piercers and shop owners are welcome at our sessions, as long as you are working in a brick and mortar studio. Any inquiries can be directed to: email@example.com.
Landon Lewis, tattooer


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Karolina Kurkova's Tips For Polished Summer Style
Eager to know more about her summer wardrobe secrets, we asked Kurkova to share her tips for assembling the perfect warm-weather look and dish on the five must-haves every girl should have in her closet right now.
Photo:Freddie Baez/startraksphoto.com
Get The Look:
Aryn K Short Sleeve Blouse ($62); Astr Pleated Faux Leather Skirt ($64); Deena & Ozzy Mesh Hidden Wedge ($49) in White.
Photo:Teach/FAMEFLYNET PICTURES
Get The Look:
Nasty Gal Loosen Up Knit ($58) in Ivory; Tommy Hilfiger Denim Fitted Mini Skirt ($50); Helen Yoi High-Tops ($85) in White.
Photo:Spartano/MaxNY/FAMEFLYNET PICTURES
Get The Look:
T by Alexander Wang Silk Combo Blouse ($135) in Fiji; Joe's Jeans Bright Colour Denim Short ($32) in Tile Blue; Cole Haan Village Jeans Belt ($98) in Argento; Sam Edelman Gilda Gladiator Sandal ($90) in Soft Silver.
Photo:Splash News
Get The Look:
Equipment Signature Button Down Blouse ($208); IRO Jarod Jean ($276).
Photo:Wagner Az/AKM-GSI
Get The Look:
Splendid Athens Colour Block Jacket ($168); Dooney & Bourke Large Tulip Shopper ($168); Tory Burch Strappy Flat Sandal ($291).
Express Inset Shawl Lapel Soft Jacket ($128) in Black
If you're going to invest in one jacket this season, Kurkova recommends a tailored blazer. "It's perfect to throw on over a day dress or a tank for a quick evening look," she says.
Thakoon Addition Red Leather A-Line Skirt ($590) in Red
Mini skirts, especially bright leather iterations, are on heavy rotation for the model come summertime. "As the temperature rises, so can your skirt length. Balance a shorter hemline with a looser fitting top," Kurkova says.
Celine Skate Sunglasses ($247) in Black/Dark Grey
What's the one accessory Kurkova never leaves home without? "A great pair of sunnies not only completes a look, but they also provide much needed protection from the harsh summer sun," she says. Kurkova's go-to brands: Celine and Karen Walker.
Joie Louisa Woven Tote ($118) in Purple/Red/Fuchsia
Nine times out of ten, you'll find Kurkova toting an eye-catching satchel or oversized bag around the city. "It's an effortless yet practical way to include a bright colour or print in your overall look," Kurkova says.
Gianvito Rossi Patent Leather Pumps ($611) in White
Kurkova reaffirms white heels as the shoe of summer, noting "a crisp white hue takes the classic pump to a new level. I especially love my Louboutin Batignolles!"


text:
Coyotes blank Stars 2-0by Jerry Brown
GLENDALE, Ariz. -- Raffi Torres is back on the ice. Mike Smith is back in synch. And after a slow start, the Phoenix Coyotes are starting to climb out of their early-season malaise.
Smith stopped all 17 shots he saw -- and went 17 minutes without seeing one in the second period -- while Nick Johnson and Mikkel Boedker scored goals and the Coyotes celebrated Torres' return from suspension with a convincing 2-0 win over the Dallas Stars at Jobing.com Arena on Saturday.
The Coyotes are now 2-0-2 in their last four games after a 1-4-0 start and reinforcements continue to join the fold. Smith, who came into the game 0-2-1 with a 4.00 goals-against average and missed a week with a groin injury, recorded his 20th career shutout and his ninth in one-plus seasons with Phoenix.
"It's been frustrating, having a couple of shaky starts and then getting injured, that's not the start to the season I was looking for," Smith said. "Saying that, looking around the League, a lot of good goalies aren't playing up to their capabilities. I am hard on myself, I take pride in that, but it takes a little time to get back into the flow and tonight was a good start."
Richard Bachman made 32 saves in his first start of the season for Dallas, but the Stars' offense continues to struggle away from home. The Stars have scored just four goals in the last six road games dating back to last season and have now been shut out in three times. Part of the problem is penalties – Dallas has had to kill 45 power plays in their first nine games and gave Phoenix seven chances, five in the first 30 minutes.
"Shots were 21-17, five-on-five, but the 14 minutes, 40 seconds [of Phoenix power-play time] takes you out of the game." Dallas coach Glen Gulutzan said.
The Coyotes needed this win. It was their first in three tries against Dallas – they lost 4-3 in a shootout in Texas on Friday -- and their first victory in five tries within the Pacific Division (1-3-1).
Playing without leading scorer Ray Whitney, who will miss a month with a broken bone in his foot, Dallas was the more aggressive team early in the first period and Smith had to make big early saves on Brenden Morrow, Trevor Daley and Jamie Benn.
But that was about it for the Stars, who had only nine shots in the first two periods and spent much of that time killing penalty after penalty.
"Our PK is doing a great job, but out top guys are sitting on the bench and they can't get things going offensively," center Vernon Fiddler said. "It happened last year and it's gone on the beginning of this year and it's something we have to figure out right away."
Torres, who was suspended for 13 Stanley Cup Playoff games last spring and the first eight of this season for his hit on Chicago's Marian Hossa in Game 3 of the Western Conference Quarterfinals, made his return to a loud roar on the third shift of the game. He delivered a solid hit on Fiddler midway through the period but had an otherwise uneventful evening, playing 12 minutes and being credited with four shots and two hits.
"I'm just thankful to be back on the ice. I'm in a good spot mentally and physically I feel like I'm in the best shape of my career," Torres said. "There were a lot of nerves and the first couple of shifts I was just skating around; way out of position … I didn't know where I was going. As the game went on, I felt better and it was just hockey.
"So many friends and families have wished me well … I just want to go out there and play hard and work hard. I just hate letting people down. These fans are great, they have supported me through this whole ordeal and it was great to feel welcomed."
The Coyotes had three power plays in the first period and two more in the first five minutes of the second, with frustrating results. Finally at 11:57, on their 20th shot and at even strength, Phoenix broke through.
Smith nudged a puck forward and Lauri Korpikoski found Johnson in stride on the rush. Johnson peeled into the slot and caught Bachman drifting off the post on the short side. The goal was Johnson's third in the last four games, and Phoenix fed off the momentum.
With injuries to Matthew Lombardi, Steve Sullivan and Martin Hanzal early in the season, Johnson was recalled from Portland of the American Hockey League and has four points in five games.
"Nick has been a real pleasant surprise for us," Phoenix coach Dave Tippett. "Not just because he's scored some points. He's a sound positional player that does a lot of things right in the game, things that coaches probably notice more than fans."
Meanwhile Dallas had just three shots in the period and went more than 17 minutes without a single one. The Stars have been outshot 112-73 in the second period this season.
They started the third on a sour note, when Michael Ryder was sent to the box and the Coyotes finally chased in.
Bachman was able to stop Derek Morris' blast from the point, but couldn't control the rebound. The puck deflected off Phoenix center Martin Hanzal and dropped at the feet of Boedker, who scored his second goal and seventh point in the first nine games.


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Please see the picture below for our hours over the holiday season (click image to see full size).
For all the BOMers, I will be processing payments and mailing out next week!
Stash Club and Liberty Addicts have both been sent out so I hope you enjoy the fabric selection this time around! If anybody is making the block from Stash Club, feel free to e-mail them in to firstname.lastname@example.com and I will show them on the blog!
As this year is quickly coming to a close I would like to take this time to thank all our customers. From the local ones who pop in and say hello to those in far away countries who support us by joining in on the BOMs or clubs!
It has been an interesting few years for the fabric shops of Australia, some tough times have hit and we're definitely not in the clear yet but because of the ongoing support from customers we can keep doing what we love which is supplying you with all the things you love!
Looking forward to another year of fabric-y things in 2013!
Just a quick note about something happening late January.
The Fabric Frolic is happening and we're one of the shops participating! It's a shop hop full of exciting things so check out the website HERE.
Wishing you all a fantastic holiday season.
I am off to Abu Dhabi to check in with the Boss Lady and Dad. I will hopefully be blogging photos of my adventures so stay tuned!
amitie girl


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major macro economic indicators
|Main economic indicators
|GDP growth (%)
|Inflation (yearly average, %)
|Budget balance (% GDP)
|Current account balance (% GDP)
|Public debt (% GDP)
(f): forecast
- Market of 38 million people
- Proximity to West European markets
- Price competitiveness / qualified and cheap labour force
- Integrated into the German production chain
- Leading beneficiary of European structural funds
- Diversified economy (agriculture, variety of industries, services)
- Resilient financial sector
- Coal reserves
- Inadequate level of investment / Domestic savings rate too low
- Weakness in R&D
- Developmental lag of Eastern regions
- Rigidity of the labour market encouraging informal economy
- Structural unemployment and low level of female employment
The growth peak has been passed
Although Poland is expected to record a solid growth rate in 2018, it will likely be a slower expansion than that of 2017. A rebound of investments experienced last year was gradual. This has so far been predominantly fuelled by higher public investments, especially at the municipal level.
Household consumption remains the main growth driver, thanks to the buoyant labour market. The unemployment rate is the lowest in 27 years, wages are set to keep growing at fair rates, the central bank's rate is at its lowest point in history, and consumer sentiment indicators have broken new heights. Exports (automobiles, machines, white goods, consumer electronics, food and furniture) are expected to benefit from the continued recovery in global trade and higher demand in the country's leading markets (Eurozone countries). However, as imports – driven by increased consumption – will increase faster than exports, the contribution from foreign trade to growth is likely to be negative.
Although the labour market situation is beneficial for households, companies have perceived it as a constraint. Labour shortages have become a barrier in current business activity and its further expansion, and have been reported by an increasing number of companies across all sectors. A lack of workforce is especially evident in the construction sector, which means that its gradual recovery is likely to be limited. The tightness of the labour market will continue to affect businesses in Poland, and it remains one of factors making a further boost of growth impossible. In addition, the insolvency law enacted in 2016 has favoured the increase in business insolvencies in 2017.
Social measures are expected to widen the budget deficit
After having narrowed to 2.4% in 2016 – its lowest level since 2007 – the general government deficit has remained stable in 2017, supported by reduced investment activity of public entities in a period of switching to a current EU financial perspective. Although improved tax collection has brought sizeable and positive effects to the Polish budget balance, this has been offset by costly social measures, such as child benefits and the lowering of the statutory retirement age in 2017. An extension of higher VAT rates' validity has generated additional revenues, but the government is likely to look to implement further measures. The introduction of the retail distribution tax, revised downwards under pressure from the European Commission, was initially delayed until 2018 and then to 2019. The government has also expressed intent to abolish the upper limit on pension contributions and therefore increase revenues of the Social Security Fund. Nevertheless, the public deficit is not likely to break the 3% threshold, and avoiding falling within the remit of the European Excessive Deficit Procedure remains a priority.
Deterioration of the political and social situation
The conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party won a majority of seats in the Sejm (the lower house of Polish parliament) in the legislative elections of October 2015, with 37.6% of votes, ahead of Civic Platform, the main opposition party. Its leader, Jarosław Kaczyński, gave the post of Prime Minister to Beata Szydło – moderate in image, but with significant influence over the government agenda. Since taking office, the PiS conducted a series of disputable reforms that have undermined the country's democratic institutions and worsened the relationship with the EU. The European Commission has triggered Article 7 of the Union Treaty which could provide for the suspension of certain rights, including the right to vote, in case of a clear risk of serious violation of the rule of law. Such actions have also generated social discontent within segments of the population, and have polarized public opinion. In December 2017 Deputy Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, who had been in charge of finance and development policy, was nominated to become the Prime Minister, replacing Beata Szydło. The switch has not yet resulted in a change of political or economic course of the government.
Although the current government has successful achieved a higher collectability of taxes, the political climate is relatively gloomy. It has contributed to a higher level of uncertainty compared to previous years, and has also affected investors' attitudes. On the other hand, stable fundamentals, the Polish integration into Western European chains, and attractive yields have convinced foreign entities to not withdraw their investments from Poland. Nevertheless, the increased volatility of exchange rates confirmed that political instability and policy deterioration have worsened the external perception of Poland.
Last update : January 2018
Standard bills of exchange and cheques are not widely used, as they must meet a number of formal issuing requirements in order to be valid. Nevertheless, for dishonoured or contested bills and cheques, creditors may resort to fast-track procedures resulting in an injunction to pay.
There is, however, one type of bill of exchange that is commonly used - the weksel in blanco. This is an incomplete promissory note bearing only the term "weksel" and the issuer's signature at the time of issue. The signature constitutes an irrevocable promise to pay and this undertaking is enforceable upon completion of the promissory note (with the amount, place and date of payment), in accordance with a prior agreement made between the issuer and the beneficiary. Weksels in blanco are widely used, as they also constitute a guarantee of payment in commercial agreements and the rescheduling of payments.
Cash payments were commonly used in Poland by individuals and firms alike, but under the 2004 Freedom of Business Activity Act (Ustawa o swobodzie działalności gospodarczej), companies are required to make settlements via bank accounts for any transaction exceeding the equivalent in złotys of EUR 15,000, even when payable in several instalments. This measure has been introduced to combat fraudulent money laundering.
Bank transfers have become the most widely used payment method. Since phases of privatisation and consolidation, leading Polish banks now use the SWIFT network, which offers a cost effective, fast and flexible solution for the transfer of domestic and international funds.
Debt collection
Amicable proceedings
Amicable debt collection is the first step of the debt recovery procedure in Poland. These actions include reminders or/and demands for payment. These communications usually serve to obtain repayment of outstanding debt, to warn the debtor of further official actions, to obtain acknowledgment of the debt, to conclude an agreement between the creditor and the debtor based on the acknowledgment of its debt and to obtain a commitment to the repayment agreed.
As since 2004, interest can be claimed as from the 31st day following delivery of the product or service, even where the parties have agreed to longer payment terms. The legal interest rate will apply from the 31st day until the contractual payment date. Thereafter, in the case of late payments, the tax penalty rate will apply. This is very often greater than the legal interest rate, unless the contracting parties have agreed on a higher interest rate.
A bill to implement the 2011/7/EU directive of 2011 on "combating late payment in commercial transactions" provides the contracting parties with maximum payment terms of 60 days. Similarly, default interest is due the day after the deadline, without the need for a formal notice.
By implementing the EU Directive, Poland introduced new rules regarding compensation for payment defaults in commercial transactions. These rules oblige debtors to pay the costs of recovery when the payment term expires. The defined amount is a lump sum of 40 euros – but it is possible to demand a larger amount if the costs of recovery prove to be higher.
Legal proceedings
Fast-track proceedings
Creditors can seek an injunction to pay (nakaz zaplaty) via a fast-track and less expensive procedure, provided they can produce positive proof of debt (such as unpaid bills of exchange, unpaid cheques, weksels in blanco, or other acknowledgements of debt). If the judge is not convinced of the substance of the claim – a decision he alone is empowered to make – he may refer the case to full trial.
As since 2010, the district court of Lublin has jurisdiction throughout Poland to handle electronic injunctions to pay when claims are indisputable. The clerk of the court examines the merits of the application, to which is attached the list of the available evidence. He then, using an electronic signature, validates the ruling granting the injunction to pay. This procedure appears, at first glance, to be fast, economic and flexible, but in reality the sheer number of cases mean that this process can be slow and drawn out.
Ordinary proceedings
Ordinary proceedings are partly written and partly oral. The parties file submissions accompanied by all supporting case documents (original or certified copies). Oral pleadings, with the litigants, their lawyers and their witnesses are heard on the main hearing date. During these proceedings the judge is required, as far as possible, to attempt conciliation between the parties.
Standard court procedures can be also fast and effective when the creditor can provide documents which clearly show the amount of debt and the confirmation of delivery of goods (or proper performance of services), especially if the documents have been signed by the debtor.
The court issues an order for payment which states that the debtor should pay the amount of the debt in two weeks, or return a written argument within the same period of time. However, in standard procedures, it is quite easy for the defendant to postpone the case. When the defendant argues the order of payment during this kind of procedure, it can take a long time to obtain the final verdict, due to the lack of judges and large backlog of cases.
Enforcement of a legal decision
When all appeal venues have been exhausted, a judgment becomes final and enforceable. If the debtor does not comply with the judgment, the creditor can request that the court orders a compulsory enforcement mechanism of the decision, through a bailiff.
For foreign awards rendered in an EU country, specific enforcement mechanisms such as the EU Payment order or the European Enforcement Order can be used for undisputed claims. Awards rendered in non-EU countries are recognised and enforced, provided that the issuing country is party to a bilateral or multilateral agreement with Poland.
Insolvency proceedings
Restructuring proceedings
The 2015 reform on polish insolvency law introduced four new types of restructuring proceedings which aim to avoid the bankruptcy of insolvent or distressed businesses. The "arrangement approval proceedings" is available to debtors who are able to reach an arrangement with the majority of creditors without court involvement and where the sum of the disputed debt does not exceed 15% of total claims. The debtor will continue to manage its estate but it will be required to appoint a supervisor, who will prepare a restructuring plan. The creditors approve the proposal through a vote.
The second type of restructuring proceedings is the Accelerated arrangement proceedings. These are also available if the sum of the disputed debt does not exceed 15% of total claims. The procedure is simplified in relation to the allowance of claims carrying voting rights. Creditors can only make reservations via a list of claims prepared by the court supervisor or administrator. The debtor's estate will continue to be managed by the debtor-in-possession, but a court supervisor will be appointed to supervise its management.
The "standards arrangement" proceeding is available for disputed debts exceeding 15% of the total claim. With these proceedings, the court secures the debtor's estate by appointing a temporary court supervisor.
Finally, "remedial" proceedings offer the broadest restructuring options and scope of protection of the debtor's assets against creditors. The appointment of an administrator to manage the debtor's estate is mandatory.
Bankruptcy proceedings
Bankruptcy proceedings can only be declared when a debtor has become "insolvent". There are two test of insolvency - the liquidity test and the balance sheet test. Both aim to liquidate the estate of the bankrupt company and distribute the proceeds among its debtors. The entire procedure is court-driven, although the 2015 reform has given creditors holding major claims a right to influence the choice of (or a change to) the court-appointed trustee.


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Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Survivor: Kissimmee - Starting Rotation
The Locksmiths
Wandy Rodriguez
Wandy just might be the only player making more than $1m who will actually be worth his salary. He'll make $10m in 2012, and while his K/9 rate has declined in each of the last four seasons (8.58, 8.45, 8.22, 7.82) and his BB/9 has increased in each of the last three (2.76, 3.14, 3.25), he's still the number one starter - provided he doesn't get traded before Opening Day. From 2009-11, Wandy is 36-35 with a 3.36 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 118 ERA+, and a 2.69 K:BB ratio.
Brett Myers
Brett Myers is lucky that Ed Wade loves his Phillies. Myers certainly wasn't as bad as his 2009 indicated (-0.6 WAR, 6.14 FIP), but it was pretty clear that he wasn't as good as his 2010 indicated (4.0 WAR, and his first sub-4.00 FIP since 2007). Still, Myers got his deal ($11m in 2012, $10m in 2013 with $3m buyout). He'll make the rotation, mainly because other teams are scared of him and won't want to take on his contract.
If there's reason for optimism, it's that Myers will likely throw 200+ IP (439.2IP in 2010-11), and his WHIP was still lower than his 2008-09 seasons in Philly. His ERA+ (85) was the lowest it had been since 2004, but Myers' role will likely be to eat up innings and let the younger guys develop.
Bud Norris
The great thing about Bud Norris is that he won't be a free agent until 2016, so there's absolutely no reason to do anything other than give him the ball every five days. There's a very real possibility that Norris is the ace of the staff, after his 2011 in which he had an ERA+ of 100 (but still only went 6-11), but Norris' walks were down from 4.5 per 9inn in 2010 to 3.4 in 2011. His Ks went down, but he cut his walks dramatically enough to raise his K:BB ratio from 2.05 to 2.51. FanGraphs lists his value at $8m, and for less than $500K/year, he's a steal.
The Lunatic Fringe
J.A. Happ
Happ had a miserable 2011. I was getting ready to be all, "10.2% OF HIS FLYBALLS WERE HOMERS!!!" And then I saw that Wandy, Myers, and Norris all had higher HR/FB rates than Happ, so that's out. But still, Happ had a miserable 2011. He's another one of those guys who probably wasn't ever as good as his numbers indicated - his ERA outperformed his xFIP by 0.89, 1.40, and 1.23 from 2008-10, respectively. It all just sort of caught up with him in 2011. Walks contributed to it - he walked 4.78 batters per nine innings in 2011, as did his lower groundball rate (33% - his lowest since 2008), and his BABIP regulated itself. And by "regulated itself," I mean that it was normal, for once, with a .297 BABIP in 2011 (after .266, .266, and .262 from 08-10). If he has a miserable spring it could turn out that he heads to OKC - as he did for three starts in 2011.
Jordan Lyles
You know all about Jordan Lyles, the 21-year old phenom, and the former prize of the Astros' farm system. But the thing is, he is only 21 years old. Still, he only walked 2.49 batter per nine in 2011 (striking out 6.41 per nine). While he had a horrific ERA (5.36), his FIP was 4.53, and his xFIP was an even better 4.13. Was he "unlucky"? His BABIP was .307 at the ML level, but he's been pretty unlucky his entire professional career - only having part of one season (low-A in 2008) with a BABIP under .315. Still, it's feasible to think the Astros will let Lyles go back to OKC in 2012 for more innings.
Livan Hernandez
You pretty much know what you're gonna get with Hernandez: 170-200IP of serviceable starting pitching. If he fares well in Spring, and someone else gets hurt or completely nuts it, Hernandez is probably in the rotation.
Zach Duke
This was an interesting one. A non-roster invitee like Hernandez, Duke could be a sleeper after an injury-plagued 2011. He's a lefty ground-ball pitcher who doesn't get strikeouts, or walk many batters. At the end of 2010, after Duke had been DFAed by the Pirates, FanGraphs said that xFIP is probably a better gauge of Duke's abilities. Should that be the case, Duke is a high-contact pitcher with an ERA in the 4.20-4.30 range, not the ~5.00 ERA pitcher he's been over the past two seasons (with a BABIP of .338 and .339, respectively). If it doesn't work out for Duke in the rotation, he could turn into a lefty specialist out of the pen. Or he could not play for the Astros.
Kyle Weiland
Acquired from the Red Sox with Jed Lowrie for Mark Melancon, the 25-year old Weiland could be an intriguing SP4 for the Astros. Weiland's fastball sat at 92.5mph (according to FanGraphs) in 2011, which would put him right there with Norris as the hardest thrower in the rotation. He's somewhat of an unknown - with his cup of coffee in 2011 getting spilled down his chest, scalding his flesh. In his first season at Triple-A Pawtucket (24 starts) in 2011, he had a 3.58 ERA/1.27 WHIP, with a 2.29 K:BB ratio and 3.9 BB per nine innings (8.8 K/9 in 2011). Still, he won't be 26 until September and will be shooting for just his 2nd stint in the Majors.
The Outsiders
Aneury Rodriguez
The Aneurysm, as we like to call him, is on the outside looking in because we don't know what role he'll have in 2012. The former Rule 5 pick had to stay on the 25-man roster in 2011, or he'd be sent back to the Rays, so he would start for a while, then go back to the bullpen, then make a spot start. He'll be 24 all season long and it's possible that, if the rotation is in his future, he could spend some time in OKC until a rotation spot opens up. As a starter, he had a 5.80 ERA/1.44 WHIP, and a 1.86 K:BB ratio. In 35 games in relief, Rodriguez had a 4.80 ERA/1.27 WHIP, with a 2.11 K:BB ratio. And that's with an overall .271 BABIP. There's no reason to not let him go back to Triple-A (he only had 17 starts for Tampa's Triple-A team in 2010) and get some more seasoning - unless he has a killer Spring.
Lucas Harrell
Harrell, one of Wade's waiver claims from 2011, made his Astros debut on September 2 against Milwaukee - going 5.1IP, allowing 3H/0ER, 4K:2BB, and throwing 114 pitches. Then he appeared in five more games, with an unsuccessful start against the Rockies thrown in on September 25. But he did alright. Harrell has a tendency to walk batters - 4.3 batters per nine - in seven minor-league seasons, with 6.0 K/9 in the same time frame. In nine starts for Oklahoma City in 2011, we has 5-2 with a 1.72 ERA/1.26 WHIP. He has a couple of options left, but will be 27 in June.
Henry Sosa
Obtained in the Keppinger trade from the Giants, the hard(ish)-throwing Sosa (93.1mph avg fastball) got ten starts for the Astros in 2011. He had a 5.23 ERA, but his FIP was 4.77, and his xFIP was 4.50 - so he probably isn't as bad as it looked. He'll also be 27 at the end of July.
Xavier Cedeno
The Astros picked up Cedeno following the 2010 season, and assigned him to Double-A Corpus (he missed the entire 2010 season), where he went 5-6 with a 3.95 ERA/1.28 WHIP, striking out 8.9 batters per nine. So they bumped him up to Oklahoma City, where had a much worse time with his peripherals (6.23 ERA/1.54 WHIP), but still managed to strike out 27 batters in his 26IP. He saw 1.2IP of action with the Astros in 2011 (3 games), and gave up 5H/2ER (2HR) in his final appearance of the season - in the 19-3 drubbing at the hands of the Rockies. Nowhere near enough to get any sort of opinion about Cedeno. Still, he's a longshot to make the rotation, and I'd expect him back in OKC.
6 comments:
Excellent post, I appreciate your work and effort. You left out Lyles, but that's probably because he doesn't fit any of these three categories. This is certainly a very crowded picture.
- February 14, 2012 at 10:29 AM
- Astros County said...
Terence, you must have just posted your comment before I published the revised post. Lyles is repped.
- February 14, 2012 at 10:32 AM
As always, you're one step ahead of me. Thanks for the great coverage and I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Livan is a good talent at a great value, but if he's pitching in the majors and Lyles is at OKC, I can't help but think that we're going backwards.
- February 14, 2012 at 10:55 AM
Thanks for posting this. I have always loved Wandy but the time has come for him to help another team make the playoffs this year.
Personally I'd be very excited about a rotation that includes Norris, Lyles and Weiland. If we have Wandy and Myers at the front of that rotation then the season could be interesting. If you replace them with Sosa and Harrell on the back end, it wouldn't be that bad either in my opinion.
I've all but given up on Happ, but he will need to eat up innings this year. I'm sure Lyles will either start in OKC or have another inning limit year, or Livan/Duke may make it from day one but falter quickly.
- February 14, 2012 at 11:35 AM
Clemens is in the mix as well. Would've loved to see a roy o signing, and the Erik bedard deal looked good, but overall the rotation should be adequate. I hope it's myers, wandy, Norris, happ, and one of Harrell, duke, or livan. A AAA rotation of lyles, Clemens, weiland. Aneury, and 1 of Sosa, kuechel, or cedeno looks pretty sweet.
- February 14, 2012 at 12:25 PM
- Brian West said...
I think that SP4 is Kyle Weiland's job to lose. Same thing for SP5 and Jordan Lyles.
It will be very interesting to see how Jeff Luhnow handles Jordan Lyles. Luhnow dd not draft and promote Lyles, so I could see Luhnow sending Lyles back to AAA for player development reasons. In AAA, Lyles might get more instruction and less innings.
We will see.
- February 14, 2012 at 1:16 PM


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Harry T. Reis, professor of psychology at the University of Rochester, has been elected president of the Society of Personality and Social Psychology (SPSP). With a worldwide membership of more than 4,500 researchers, SPSP is the largest organization dedicated to advancing the science of social-personality psychology. He is president-elect this year, will serve as president in 2007, and past-president in 2008.
Reis, who is among the leading scholars in the study of interpersonal relationships, is well-known for his studies of everyday social interaction using event-sampling techniques. From 1994 to 2004, he served as executive officer of SPSP. He is credited with expanding the organization of social and personality psychology researchers with new programs and increasing its membership. SPSP presented him with its Award for Distinguished Service in fall 2005.
Among other leadership roles in the field is his editorship of Current Directions in Psychological Science, an international journal that is one of two flagship journals of the American Psychological Society. The bimonthly publication targets new and significant research in all major fields of psychology, and disseminates cutting-edge research findings to a broad audience, including researchers in other disciplines and policy makers.
From 2000 to 2002, Reis was president of the International Society for the Study of Personal Relationships. He also has been a member and chair of the American Psychological Association's Board of Scientific Affairs, and currently is president of the APA's division 8. From 1985 to 1990, Reis was editor of the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology.
He is the author or co-author of more than 100 publications, and has been awarded several federally funded research grants. He earned his doctorate in psychology from New York University.


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The Real Story Behind the Phrase 'Lame Duck'
When you think of the phrase 'lame duck,' you might picture a poor duck walking around with a plaster cast on one of its legs, or webbed feat. While that's a striking image, it isn't the right one.
A lame duck is someone, or something that is no longer able to perform in the manner, or at the level previously expected.
Ducks and the London Stock Market
The actual term 'lame duck' was coined well before American political commentators usurped it. The phrase actually comes from the London Stock Market and describes investors who cannot repay their debts. Stock markets are now famous for their 'bulls' and 'bears,' but it seems not so long ago, another common animal used to wander around the financial 'zoo' as well. And that was the lame duck.
Lame Ducks in Politics
The term is often used to describe politicians, or people in elected posts, after they have lost a significant amount of power. For example, a mayor or president who wasn't re-elected (or can't run for another term), but still has several months left in his or her term of office could be considered a lame duck. Technically, that person still holds the reins of power, but everyone knows he or she is on the way out, so the power of leadership is greatly diminished.
American 'Duck' Usage
Lame duck has often been the phrase of choice when describing American presidents. The reason for that is simple. Presidential elections are held in November, but the winner (if it's a new president) doesn't officially take the oath of office until January. This is the transitional time for the team of a new president, and the time for the outgoing president to get his or her affairs in order.
The Advantages of Being a Lame Duck
The person left in office still has to govern for a short while, even if most of the populace has focused its attention on the new leader. This loss of power does have a few advantages, though. A 'lame duck' president can get away with things he or she might not have gotten away with if expected to serve out another term. This is usually the time when a lot of presidential pardons get handed out, some of them often rather controversial. If there are any executive decisions that can be made, and get past or better yet circumvent Congress (a difficult trick), an outgoing president might leave with a few parting shots, or back a radical bill or amendment he or she wouldn't have backed if still worried about governing, or managing another reelection campaign.


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Next Episode of Junkyard Wars is
not planed. TV Show was canceled.
Junkyard Wars was a successful sport/reality show that started in the UK in 1998 and came to America a couple of years after. It had 14 rounds in total counting the "Junkyard Mega Wars"
The show is about 2 teams that have to build a machine or vehicle (like a cannon, a raft, a glider, etc) only with junk. Then, each machine will be tested in a competition. The team that builds the best machine will advance to the next round.
Each team has a captain and an expert that will help the 'ordinary' competitors to achieve their objectives. The captain is the best worker in the team and he/she will stay with the team until they lose or become champions while the expert only works with the team one episode.
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But don't worry - it can happen to the best of us,
- and it just happened to you.
Please try again later or contact us.


text:
12/12/2018 - In 2019, FAO seeks USD +1 billion to assist over 31 million people in 24 countries. FAO in the 2019 humanitarian country appeals
Derniers Appels
29/10/2008 - Beginning on 13 October, Tropical Depression 16 caused widespread flooding and devastation throughout Honduras. Heavy rains, which doubled the average level of precipitation for the month in just over two ...READ MORE
07/10/2008 - The escalation of conflict between Russian and Georgian forces in August 2008 led to the displacement of 127 499 people in Georgia. The majority of families living in the conflict ...READ MORE
29/09/2008 - Poor and erratic rainfall since October 2007 has caused the worst drought to strike Syria in four decades. Approximately one million people are severely affected and food insecure, particularly in ...READ MORE
25/09/2008 - The people of Tajikistan are in urgent need of assistance to restore food security following two years of unrelenting economic, environmental and social shocks. Reduced agricultural yields combined with the ...READ MORE
19/09/2008 - Between 12 and 18 August, the Lao People's Democratic Republic (PDR) was struck by the most severe flood to affect the country in about one hundred years. Tropical storm Kammuri ...READ MORE
10/09/2008 - Striking between 15 August and 2 September, Hurricanes Fay and Gustav and Tropical Storm Hanna caused escalating devastation and human suffering throughout the ten departments of Haiti. Initial estimates reveal ...READ MORE
08/09/2008 - In August 2008, overlapping crises compounded the impact of global soaring food prices on growing food insecurity in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Unusually heavy monsoon rains at the beginning ...READ MORE
31/07/2008 - Despite a strategic coastal location that enables the import and export of goods to land-locked countries in the Horn of Africa, the Republic of Djibouti continues to suffer from widespread ...READ MORE
16/07/2008 - On 12 May 2008, the Wenchuan Earthquake struck 92 km north of the Sichuan provincial capital of Chengdu, causing massive devastation across eight provinces of the People's Republic of China. ...READ MORE
10/07/2008 - Cyclone Nargis struck Myanmar on 2 and 3 May, affecting some 2.4 million people and causing more devastation than any other natural disaster in the country's history. Tidal waves and ...READ MORE
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Sydney has been named the nation's favourite city, beating its rival Melbourne by a solitary vote.
The Australian Traveller magazine readers' choice awards, announced on Tuesday night, gave Sydney five gongs including best travel experience, best restaurant, best bar and best guided tour.
Melbourne, winner of Australia's favourite city in the 2011 contest, only picked up one award this year - that of best luxury hotel in Australia, for the Crown.
More than 1000 readers of the magazine completed the survey to nominate their favourite Australian places.
Western Australia's Margaret River was voted the best town in the country, with readers praising its restaurants, wineries, art galleries and surf.
The state won two more awards, with The Kimberley region winning the title of Australia's dream destination and best adventure holiday destination.
Queensland was the highest-winning state overall, with seven awards.
Georgia Rickard, editor of Australian Traveller magazine, said the results highlighted 2013's domestic travel trends.
"Judging by the startling number of Sydney award winners, it's the city's buzzing cosmopolitan delights that are clearly appealing to travellers," she added.
The second annual Australian Traveller readers' choice awards were held at The Ivy, Sydney.


text:
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Power ratings are continuous, not peak, for superior protection for your valuable PC. Corsair uses high-quality internal components, and CS MODULAR Series power supplies are guaranteed to deliver clean, stable, continuous power.
Gold-certified efficiency and modular cabling for low energy use and easy installation
CS Series Modular power supplies are ideal for basic desktop systems where low energy use, low noise, and simple installation are essential. 80 PLUS Gold efficiency reduces operating cost and excess heat. Flat, sleeved black modular cables with clearly-marked connectors make installation fast and straightforward, with good-looking results.
80 PLUS Gold-certified efficiency
The super-efficient operation of the CS Series Modular results in lower energy use and lower operating costs. Since it generates less heat, the fan doesn't need to work as hard, and you'll enjoy near silent operation.
Modular cabling with clearly marked connectors
The flat, sleeved black cables are modular, so you'll only use the cables you need and you'll get great-looking results. The clearly-marked connectors make installation fast and straightforward.
Supports 4th Generation Intel Core processors
The super-efficient operation of the CS Series Modular results in lower energy use and lower operating costs. Since it generates less heat, the fan doesn't need to work as hard, and you'll enjoy near silent operation.
Corsair Engineering and Quality Control
Every Corsair power supply is designed by our California engineering team and built to our exact specifications. The same care that goes into the design and testing of our renowned high-power enthusiast power supplies also goes into the CS Series Modular, because you need confidence and reliability regardless of your build budget.
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"Punching goats is generally what I want to do."
" That is it! I've had it with these mother fucking goats on this mother fucking boat!"
- A summary of goat. No more research is available, as all field researchers were consumed in their studies.'
Goats were one of the US government's most hilarious pranks. Most people believe in their existence due to the fact they've never seen one.
In the year 2000 the US Government wanted to see if they could get the public to believe in the existence of an animal by putting up pictures of them and making it general knowledge. They succeeded. They called the animal a goat.
In reality no such animal exists. In a follow-up survey done by the government they asked over 1000 people if they believed in goats. 99% of them said yes. They then asked if any of them had ever seen a goat 90% replied no. When the interviewer pointed out this discrepancy the interviewee simply shrugged and said the interviewer was crazy and walked away. The goats dance with monkeys also sometimes.
One can scour the earth for goats (not recommended) and not find them.
Goat facts
Addison Kimmel commonly fucks these disgusting animals.
The first goat ever recorded was found by the legendary Dewey King, Tomaca Castanova, leader of the popular Azutana tribe. It was discovered at the bottom of a huge canyon which was later to become commonly known as The Great Goat Chasm which reqularly attracts over 7 visitors each month providing a solid income for the last remaining Aztec warriors. Having never seen a goat before, King Izuma immediately declared it to be a greater being and was therefore granted full access to wherever it wished to roam and whatever it wished to eat. Much like the sacred cows of India today. The goat was deemed so sacred it was declared illegal to even look at it, an offence that was punished by a process known today as goat spearing. A particularly horrible punishment that is now considered to be inhumane for both the goat and the victim and is banned in over 15 countries around the world.
All goats are just like Satan, but with bad hygiene. All goats with horns destroyed in a blender are god.
Norwegian goats that behave well is often rewarded by their owner with a wired "roller coaster" where they can attach their horns and have some fun on sunny daysGoats[Citation not needed at all; thank you very much] are excellent hunters, as they have evolved from dragons. They also make good Goatmeal and Shredded Goats. Over millions of years, their front legs have extended, and they have grown large, spikey horns, a result of purposeful breeding with Satan and various formidable demons to make an even more formidable predator. Another byproduct of this breeding is the blood of a goat, which upon consumption will have the same effect as drinking liquid magma. Goats are known to converse with casual acquaintances about the biological sciences, in particular the history and catastrophic state of global and local ecosystems. Goats have not been known however to pursue advanced academic study in such subjects.
Their sense of hearing is astronomical, as they can hear everything within a twenty-kilometer radius. No one can sneak up on a goat, not even ninjas(a.k.a. Queers).
Goats are flatulent after hunting, with a digestive system which is roughly as acidic as Hydrochloric Acid, expelling a gas which is harnessed to create VX nerve gas found in popular media in movies such as "The Rock". The goat is also able to use this as a defensive mechanism against higher members of the food chain, such as grues.
Drinking small amounts of goats blood (Magma) is an important part of many terrorist organization initiation rites, as survival is totally based on luck. This proves that the participant is willing to commit suicide for other people.
Out of the suspected 54 species of goat only 62 of those can produce the paper-like substance known as cyanide.
Goats are selfish creatures, that take joy in the spending of money at such places as arcades, casinos, or brothels. If you feed a goat whipped cream, you are encouraging it to do such things.
Goats are not confined to any specific landmass or environment. As they are 5th of the food chain they are able to sustain themselves wherever they reside. Popular locations include Nepal, Uganda, PETA compounds, and Siberia. Goats are also partial to tourism. To accomplish this they use the dried skin of prey to form a complex wing set. They then use rising air currents to travel vast distances. Pilfered circus cannons are also a speedy form of travel for goats, but often do not have the necessary power and range. In the late 1900s, the 7 Arch-Goats set their human slaves to building railroad cannons based on Nazi models. These have allowed a much higher rate of intercontinental travel. Tanks were once used by goats back in the time of WW2, but they weren't used for the actual war itself. The goats would seize the driver and use the tank to travel to their underground lair, (Hell), blowing up anything in the way. This is why the great Wall of China was built; for they feared of being invaded by the myriads of goat-driven tanks. Also be aware that Abraham Lincoln was actually a goat in disguise. (Note his goatee) He was sent to possess a human body in order to control the inhabitants of the United States until a mountain goat hunter tracked him down. Lincoln and the Goat Hunter battled for approximately 6 days in a melee that pervaded over 6 continents (excluding South America(nothing happens in South America(well...no,nothing(at all)))and multiple dimensions including #59986, #00987, Fairyland, Middle Earth, and North Carolina. Lincoln was eventually defeated by the hunter after the hunter recruited an army of Grues to aid him in his final stand. The goat hunter then fell into a deep hibernation and awoke a grotesque beast the likes of which had never been seen. He renamed himself Hillary Clinton and continues to plague the world with his/her presence. Goats have also been spotted chanting in circles all around Wisconsin. This is due to the fact that it's a horrible place.
Breeding Habits
Goats have evolved over time by Chinese Olympic Team-like breeding programs involving God and Satan. They are also often found raping specimens which are under paralysis from their gaseous discharge, or pinned down post-Drop Bearing. Interesting offspring result from these encounters, including Sea Cucumbers (a result of human rape).
Goats have adopted Spider post-breeding rituals, namely: the consumption of the breeding partner. Notable exceptions include Satan and seraphim. This is an act of kindness, as the partner's teeth have been knocked out as a result of goat preferences for rough throat fucking, meaning the victim would not be able to feed in future.
Goats have the tendency to inhabit trees and caves. When in trees they adopt drop bear tactics learnt from Australian mammals. Whilst in caves their noxious gasses act as a defense, as any being without a full chemical suit invading this habitat will have it's skin bubble and melt off, followed by total paralysis. The goat will then eat this specimen. In this regard they have adopted a "Venus Fly Trap" strategy in attaining food. Imagaine that bitch.
Population and Living Conditions
Some species of goats are known to live in large communities like gypsies, living as squatters on human-owned grasslands. Goats are often confused as to why their subordinates, the humans, consider the presence of the goats to be as a result of a decision they have made. Goats living as squatters use mind control on humans in order to attain a free livestock truck ride to a new location.
The last survey of goat populations found that there are anywhere between 20 and 97 million worldwide, based on the amount of surveyors failed to return, presumably raped and eaten.
Goats have been known to frequent New Zealand, to torment their cousins, sheep, for being shamelessly raped by humans so often.
Goats will eat just about any mammal with adequate flesh. Hop on your nearest scales to see if you are eligible to be eaten by a goat. Children and babies are certain prey. Those over 20% body fat are also prime targets.
When goats attack, they'll break they're prey's knees with their powerful hooves, bringing the prey into a praying position. Once downed, the goats will then scalp their prey with their sharp teeth. After the scalping, the goat excretes gasses to put the target under paralysis. It then slowly inserts the target into its intestines via the anus. The target is still conscious and can live in the intestines up to a day with full consciousness, unable to move as it is digested.
Goat have been known to have a confusing digestive system. Teams of biologist have dissected goats in an effort to understand exactly how their digestive systems function. No conclusive evidence had been found until Dr. Meatyfart made a groundbreaking discovery. He found that goats don't digest food. They simply laminate consumed materials in a thick coat of milk and excrete them.
Though goats are not usually sought out for food, one creature is known to prey on goats for the sole purpose of copulation. This creature is known simply as "Boosher" and is indigenous to the outskirts to some small towns. This creature is a half man, half beast abomination who's name roughly translates into "one who fucks goats" in an ancient Mayan dialect. The wild Boosher is very dangerous and is known to violate humans as well as goats. All Booshers carry a highly infectious disease called "Bahh-itis" which is contracted through prolonged sexual contact and/or the drinking of contaminated goat milk. The infected individual also develops Hepatitis and becomes hated by all people within a six mile radius. This disease has no cure despite the best efforts of scientists and doctors. If faced with a Boosher, one can only hope to flee. However, if that is not an option, experts suggest to barter with the Boosher with fake steroids or low-end narcotics. Unlike most animals, Booshers live entirely off sexual pleasure and becoming intoxicated. This has lead to worldwide study of Booshers.
Another predator of goats is the Chupacabra indigenous to many shitty South and Central American countries. Its name translates to "one who fellates goats" in Spanish. Like the Boosher, the Chupacabra is known to violate goats. However, Chupacabras will drink their prey's blood for sustenance. This is very unlike the Boosher, which will leave his prey alive to violate later. It is unknown where the Chupacabra has come from, but leading experts suggest it was sent by God to punish the goat race for their sins. However, leading envirionmental figure such as Al Gore believe the Chupacabra is a product of global warming. Others believe that the Chupacabra is a hoax. If these non-believers live anywhere except the United States or France they and their families are swiftly executed by gun-wielding Gypsies. The Chupacabra are one of the major religious figures in the Gypsie religion.
Education & Occupations
Contrary to popular belief, most goats attend Ivy League colleges in their formative years. And although no goat in recent memory has ever held a job, most of them aspire to be lumberjacks. Though, they are not particularly good at this vocation, as having three legs is a hindrance, and since the vast majority of lumber buyers in Canada are French Canadian, they have no one to barter with. Goats are known to panic and faint when they see an opened umbrella, closed umbrellas attract them on the other hand. Top scientists believe this behaviour dates back to goat sheep war in which umbrellas were used as makeshift parachutes by sheep. Fainting goats are used as sacraficial diversions. No shit, either - wolf comes along, goat gets scared, BOOM, dead goat. Pretty funny, actually.
Knowledge and Learning of Goats
Renowened for their fighting prowess, Marques of Queenbury added Goats to his legendary rules making Goats an essential part of man-to-man combat. The reason for inclusion of a goat is a mystery, but it's value is unquestioned.
In everyday life, goats are constantly learning new things. The goat mind always looks for the simplest way to complete a task, continuously finding better ways to accomplish the task at hand. This increases goat's knowledge substantially every day. Their minds are at work everywhere, be it work or relationships. Relationships are the more challenging side to learn. Getting inside the other person's head is the tricky part, but it teaches the best way to interact with that person. Learning is not limited to observing or reading about something; sometimes it is necessary to experience the true feeling of something in order to acquire the skill needed to do it properly. In the short story "Saturday Climbing", W.D. Goatgardson illustrates how we all must learn in order to continue along life's road. Goatgardson presents this through the Father, who is trying to learn about his daughter; and through the daughter who is trying to learn about life. His idea is also developed through the extended metaphor that is the rock face.
The goat in this story, Goaty, eventually learns that he must let his goatee go free, so that she might be able to learn and grow as well. Goaty learns through desperation and resentment, from his daughter and his class, that keeping his daughter captive is proving nothing. He suspects she is smoking marijuana and that she might be involved with a guy, but he cannot learn how to deal with it. In the end, he realizes how antagonizing he has been, and gives his girl the slack she needs to continue scaling life as if it were a mountain.
From the daughter, Moira's, point of view, her father is keeping her from learning or seeing anything in the world. Moira learns how to cope with her father, and admits that she isn't totally innocent. She realizes that in order for to go where she wishes; she must tell him what she's doing. It may not be what he wants for her, but it's her choice and he has to trust her with it. Moira also learns to overcome her resentment for her father by going with him and learning to rock climb. She does it not only because of the guys watching her, but because she knows she has to do it for herself.
The last example of comprehension or new things is in the climbing. When the two climb the rock, it is possible to compare it to life. In the second paragraph the daughter "…let out the golden line of rope that joined them." The rope then went slack, and Barry went into a depression. Then with strain, he stood up and pondered his next move. This was describing his climb, but it also portrays his relationship with his daughter perfectly. In her younger years, his daughter was close to him. That is the golden rope. When the rope goes slack, it signifies how he became lax and the relationship crumbled. He then goes into a depression and doesn't know what to do. He had his revelation in the classroom when one of his students intoned the truth of his relationship with his daughter. This makes him stand up, and then he is stuck wondering whether to let his daughter do what she needs to, or keep her with him. The author also calls the cliff deceptive, and describes it as having large, easy to use handholds at the beginning, and then slowly they got smoother, smaller and farther apart. It then says that pride kept him from going back, but in life, desire can not cause one to return things to they way they once were. When the daughter finally decides that she wants to lead, it represents the shift in power: the father is letting go of his only daughter.
All these hidden hints point at one main idea, and that is how things in life do change or grow or learn new things. The father does discover the truth about what he needs to do, the daughter uncovers her true potential and what she is allowed to do, and the rock face teaches the facts in life. We are constantly in motion, like it or not, and it will always stay that way, or considering how we always change, perhaps what we do may shift yet again.
Goat, rooted the
"Rooted the Goat" is a relatively new saying, applicable in a number of situations. It is said to have originated in a small rural town, often referred to as a "hole" in the "middle of no where". The saying has been attributed to a certain, A.E., whose real identity is said to only be known by those who know him. The etymology of Rooted the Goat is hard to discern, but we can only suppose that is some form Idiom that is known only to a select few. The three most well known of its meanings are as follows:
- When someone bungles or screws up a situation - "Well, you really rooted the goat with that one" - Committing a certain social faux pas, and - Dying or imminent doom - "Looks like you're going to root the goat, permanently"
The original designer of the saying hoped that "Rooted the Goat", would gain more public appeal by having his co-operative agent place it on a certain wiki based encyclopedia, though at this time we are unable to discern which one. (Please note: the above saying in no way condones or promotes bestiality.)


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Enter our site to learn more about Green Turtle Cay, it's friendly people, beautiful beaches, and many near by deserted islands. Find out for yourself how Island Property Management can make your island vacation dream into a memorable reality.


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Early fungicide application is crucial to reduce downy mildew and lettuce drop disease in winter head lettuce grown in the low desert of Yuma County, Ariz., and Imperial Valley, California.
"Fungicides should be applied before growers actually see downy mildew and lettuce drop on young plants," according to Mike Matheron, University of Arizona (UA) Extension plant pathologist. He is based at the UA's Yuma Agricultural Center (YAC), Yuma, Ariz.
Fungicides help prevent and destroy sclerotia caused by the fungal pathogens Sclerotinia minor and S. sclerotiorum which cause lettuce drop, Matheron says.
Matheron shared his latest findings on the diseases and recent test trial results during an August preseason vegetable workshop in Yuma sponsored by UA Cooperative Extension, Yuma County.
"We all aspire to have perfectly healthy lettuce," Matheron grinned as he showed a PowerPoint photo of a flawless field to the 70 growers, pest control advisers, and industry members in attendance. In the real world Matheron said fungal pathogens challenge lettuce growers in irrigated agriculture and efforts to control production costs.
Downy mildew
Downy mildew in winter lettuce is caused by the pathogen Bremia lactucae. Symptoms include light green to yellow angular lesions on the leaf top and sporulation on the under leaf side.
The organism grows in cool, moist conditions found in irrigated lettuce fields. Older leaves are attacked first. The infection of the cotyledon (embryo leaf) of young seedlings can result in plant death.
The initial inoculum is spread by oospores in plant debris, sporangia from nearby lettuce fields, inoculum in wild lettuce plants, and rarely by lettuce seed.
The secondary spread of inoculum is airborne. Sporangia are produced at night after a dark, dry period combined with several hours of 100 percent relative humidity and low wind speed.
Ideal temperatures for sporangia production range from 40 F to 75 F; 68 F is optimal. Sporangia are released at sunrise; the peak period is 10 a.m. to noon. Downy mildew infection occurs within several hours in a 23 F to 85 F environment.
Matheron cited studies conducted in the Salinas Valley where downy mildew impacts summer lettuce. Infection occurs when the leaves are wet until 10 a.m. or later. No infection occurs if the leaves are dry by 8 a.m. The same is true in desert production.
"Wet leaves past 10 over several days is favorable weather for downy mildew development," Matheron said. "Growers should consider fungicide applications to protect the crop."
The best management options include resistant cultivars and fungicides. Some resistant cultivars are grown in the Salinas Valley, the world's largest salad vegetable-growing region. Matheron recommends supplemental fungicide use even with resistant cultivars.
Fungicides are generally applied on lettuce plant leaves for downy mildew control.
Matheron conducted a downy mildew-fungicide trial at the YAC during the 2008-2009 winter lettuce season. The Nov. 3-planted crop was sprayed Jan. 22 and again Feb. 2, 10, and 16. Downy mildew was first observed Feb. 4.
"We had two applications of fungicides on the lettuce before we saw the first evidence of downy mildew," Matheron said. "That's the way it should be done."
The fungicides providing the best downy mildew control in the trial were a combination of Blockade, Manex, and Revus. Each plant averaged about 3.5 lesions.
Matheron said, "Generally every product we tested performed well either by itself and when combined with other products. Some performed better than others. The key is to apply fungicide early for the best results."
Similar trials conducted in the Salinas Valley have generated similar results, Matheron said.
The incidence of downy mildew incidence is variable in the low desert since the weather that provides moist conditions needed for severe disease development is relatively uncommon. The incidence rate can range from 1 percent to an uncommon 50 percent. Last season downy mildew was found in about 10 percent to 15 percent of all Yuma County fields over the entire season.
Lettuce drop disease
Lettuce drop is caused by two fungi — Sclerotinia minor and S. sclerotiorum. Both create problems in desert lettuce. Sclerotinia minor has sclerotia one-quarter to one-half inch smaller than S. sclerotiorum yet more Sclerotinia minor sclerotia are found on the lettuce.
Conditions conducive to lettuce drop development include moist soil with a high sclerotia population, the multi-year survival of both pathogen species, plus favorable growing temperatures comparable to downy mildew development.
Sclerotinia minor infects stems and leaves in contact with the soil. The fungus causes a brown, soft decay that destroys the plant crown tissue. Older leaves then wilt. The entire plant eventually wilts and collapses. The lettuce is unmarketable.
S. sclerotiorum also infects lower leaves and stems causing symptoms similar to S. minor. S. sclerotiorum has an aerial spore that attacks the upper leaves. Spores usually infect damaged or senescent tissue in cool and moist weather. Infection causes a watery, soft rot accompanied by white mycelial growth and sclerotia formation.
"My suspicion is both pathogens are less likely to survive as long in the desert with the hot temperatures and crop rotation than in the Salinas Valley," Matheron said.
A field with S. sclerotiorum or S. minor disked up after the season's final lettuce harvest harbors the pathogen until the next year's lettuce crop.
"To successfully control lettuce drop, sclerotia of the fungal pathogens must not germinate or else be destroyed," Matheron emphasized.
Sclerotinia lettuce drop is found in about 10 percent to 15 percent of fields on an annual basis. Financial losses from the disease can cost growers an average of 1 percent to 2 percent income annually but more in "wet" years.
In separate YAC lettuce field trials with Sclerotinia minor and S. sclerotiorum, six fungicides were tested for lettuce drop control. Each included four trials with two soil-surface applications.
"Each fungicide currently on the market statistically performed about the same and provided good control," Matheron said.
"The product that performed the best overall was fluazinam which is not currently registered in Arizona and California. Fluazinam, if registered, will be a great tool in the grower's fungicide arsenal," Matheron said.
Matheron also tested how fungicides are applied. In separate trials the products Endura and Rovral were applied to the soil surface and incorporated 2 inches under the soil. No significant difference was found.
In another trial Matheron applied Contans and Botran at seeding versus thinning. The fungicides applied at seeding provided equivalent control (about 40 percent) of Sclerotinia minor. However the fungicides at seeding achieved 90 percent control of S. sclerotiorum. The trials will be repeated.
Current fungicides provide about a 50 percent control of lettuce drop depending on the year. Matheron believes current chemistries and new compounds under development could provide 70 percent control.
Yuma County farmers planted about 45,000 acres of head lettuce during the 2006-2007 growing season. The crop value totaled about $305 million or about $6,800 per acre.
Imperial County farmers harvested almost 24,000 acres of head lettuce during the 2008-2009 season valued at about $121 million. Riverside County production included about 900 acres for the same period.


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Easy Duck a L'Orange
D'Artagnan | Yield: 2-4
Here's a super easy version of a classic, sometimes "fussy," French duck recipe. Give it a try!
- 1 quart fresh-squeezed orange juice
- 1 (12-ounce) jar bitter or sweet orange marmalade, or a combination of the two
- ½ cup honey
- 1 Rohan Duck, 5 to 6 pounds, giblets and excess fat removed and discarded, wing tips turned under
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 thin-skinned orange, washed and cut into thin slices
- ½ cup Cointreau or triple sec
- Combine orange juice, marmalade, and honey in a bowl deep enough to hold duck. Add duck, over, and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight, turning duck once or twice if marinade doesn't cover it.
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
- Remove duck from marinade, reserving marinade. Prick duck skin all over with a fork (do not pierce the flesh), and season inside and out with salt and pepper. Place breast side up on a rack in a roasting pan and transfer to oven. After 10 minutes, turn heat down to 350°F and roast for 1 ½ hours. (It may also be cooked on a rotisserie for 1 ½ hours in a 350°F oven).
- Once duck has rendered some fat, spoon 2 tablespoons of it into a saucepan. Heat over medium-high heat, add onion, and sauté until tender and light brown, 5 to 6 minutes. Sprinkle on flour and cook for 1 minute to lightly color, stirring occasionally. Pour in reserved marinade and bring to a boil over high heat, stirring up any browned bits. Adjust heat to medium and reduce liquid until thickened, 20 to 25 minutes. Scrape sauce into an electric blender or food processor and puree until smooth. Pour through a strainer into a pan and set aside.
- When duck has roasted for 1 ½ hours, remove pan from oven and turn heat down to 325°F. Discard all but a little fat from roasting pan, and lay orange slices over bottom of pan. Return to oven and cook until slices begin to brown about 10 minutes. Remove orange slices and duck from pan, and let stand for 10 minutes while finishing sauce.
- On top of stove, pour Cointreau into roasting pan and carefully ignite, stirring up all browned particles. When flames subside, pour in reduced orange sauce and stir to blend. Keep warm.
- To serve for 2: Cut duck in half using sharp scissors or poultry shears. Remove backbone by cutting along one side and then the other, then cut along breastbone. For 4: Cut each half into breast and leg sections.
- Place each duck portion on a warm plate. Spoon a generous mound of rice next to it, lay orange slices around it, add watercress sprig, and ladle on sauce.


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PORTSMOUTH, N.H. — Workers on the new Memorial Bridge connecting New Hampshire and Maine have installed a concrete deck on the Portsmouth side and plan to have the sidewalks ready before Thanksgiving.
The contractor working on the bridge says the approach will serve as the entryway to a new span to the south to be put in place in January.
On the Kittery side, four new concrete piers have been completed and some beams have been installed for four out of five spans of a new approach.
The new bridge is expected to be completed by July 2013. The old Memorial Bridge connected the two communities for nearly 90 years.