text:
'Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter', 'Futurama' and 'Comedy Bang! Bang!' — Check It Or Chuck It
It's a new week, and it's loaded with awesome things like vampires, robots and self-righteous Aaron Sorkin characters. You have NO REASON to be bored! Read on for a list of five things to "check," and five things to "chuck" this week, including 'Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter,' 'Futurama' and 'Comedy Bang! Bang!'
Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter
Finally, the secret story of the 16th President's bloody battle against the undead hits the big screen! Honestly, we have no idea if this movie will deliver in terms of character and story, but it's sure to offer plenty of fun and inventive horror-action madness, especially with 'Nightwatch' and 'Wanted' director Timur Bekmambetov behind the camera. Still not sold? Consider this: The lovely Mary Elizabeth Winstead plays Mary Todd Lincoln. IN 3D! 'Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter' opens Friday.
The Newsroom
'West Wing' and 'Sports Night' creator Aaron Sorkin heads back to the tube with this promising HBO drama that takes a behind-the-scenes look at a cable news channel, premiering Sunday night. Sorkin's shows are always worth watching (even the failures) for their ambition, clever dialogue and pitch-perfect casting. This time, Jeff Daniels leads a cast that includes Alison Pill, Olivia Munn, Emily Mortimer and Sam Waterston.
Inside Men
After the engrossing 'Luther' and the inventive 'Sherlock,' we've become big fans of BBC's America's dark and clever crime shows. The Beeb's latest offering, a four-part miniseries premiering Wednesday night, stars 'Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels' actor Steven Mackintosh as the head of a trio of regular guys turned bank robbers.
Comedy Bang! Bang!
We've failed to mention IFC's new must-watch comedy talk show on this list over the past few weeks. Bad us! Now it's time to make things right … Based on the Earwolf podcast of the same name, 'Comedy Bang! Bang!' host Scott Aukerman and music man/co-host Reggie Watts welcome funny celebs to sit, chat and deliver some of the most brilliantly bizarre improv comedy performances you'll ever see on TV. Check out 'Mad Men' star Jon Hamm on this Friday's episode.
Futurama Season Premiere
Bender and the gang return to Comedy Central for Season 7 on Wednesday night. The season premiere finds Bender grappling with the idea of fatherhood after he impregnates a soda machine. Hey, it's the future, anything can happen!
Bristol Palin: Life's a Tripp
This is our top Hate Watch pick for the week. We don't recommend watching Tuesday night's premiere of Lifetime's Bristol Plain reality show, we recommend glaring at it in anger and disappointment while hurling obscenities, and maybe a few tomatoes, at the screen. Invite your parents, it'll be fun!
The Big Miracle
Here are a few simple words and phrases that should keep you away form this new feature DVD release: "Family drama." "Whales. "From the director of 'Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants.'" Are we done here?
Love Birds
Lucky for you, this is the brand of lowbrow romantic chick flick, new on DVD, that even your wife or girlfriend will ignore, so you probably won't have to sit through it. Unless, of course, your girlfriend or wife finds New Zealand comic Rhys Darby irresistible. (Yeah, we didn't think so.)
Baby Daddy
Sometimes ABC Family surprises us with smart, funny and original shows that defy the usual conventions of "family TV." 'Baby Daddy,' about a douchey single dude who is surprised to learn he's a dad, premiering Wednesday, is not one of those shows.
The Glass House
ABC's new reality series, premiered Monday, is just like 'Big Brother,' but with more Twitter and Facebook references. Just what we always wanted (but not really)!


text:
Hi guest ·
Log in
Log in to check your private messages
Proposed Development Upwind of Candlestick Point
iWindsurf Community Forum Index
Southwest USA, Hawaii, Mexico
View previous topic
View next topic
Joined: 31 May 1998
Posts: 8
Posted: Tue Jan 11, 2011 3:22 am
Post subject: Proposed Development Upwind of Candlestick Point
The following are SFBA comments to the City of Brisbane regarding its Revised Notice of Preparation of an Environmental Impact Report for the Brisbane Baylands Specific Plan, immediately upwind of the sailing area at Candlestick Point.
January 9, 2011
Mr. John Swiecki, AICP
Community Development Director
City of Brisbane
50 Park Place
Brisbane, CA 94005
Subject: Comments to the Revised Notice of Preparation for the Brisbane Baylands Specific Plan Draft Environmental Impact Report and the need to fully address potential Impacts to the Recreational Use of Windsurfing
Dear Mr. Swiecki,
This letter provides comments with respect to the scope and content of the Revised Notice of Preparation (NOP) for the Brisbane Baylands Specific Plan.
The San Francisco Boardsailing Association (SFBA) is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1986 to protect and enhance boardsailing access, and to promote safety and related education in the San Francisco Bay Area. To this end, SFBA actively participates in the planning processes for development, reuse and redevelopment of public and private properties adjacent to San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean which may enhance, threaten and/or directly or indirectly impact the recreational uses of Windsurfing and/or KiteBoarding.
SFBAs main concern with the Development Alternatives proposed in this NOP are focused on the significant potential of the projects to alter existing air movement patterns - i.e., degradation of wind quality downwind of the project by creation of turbulence and/or wind tunnels or similar conditions. The large scope and upwind massing of the Alternatives described below, including the size and placement of structures (buildings, wind turbines, etc.), has the potential to significantly degrade or even destroy the ability to windsurf in one of the most cherished windsurfing locations on San Francisco Bay.
The landowner and Project Applicant, Universal Paragon Corporation, has submitted a specific plan application to the City of Brisbane proposing approximately 7 million square feet of office / retail / industrial / institutional uses, plus 5 million square feet of residential development (4,434 residential units) and approximately 205 acres of open space and related infrastructure. This land use scenario includes an Entertainment Variant, which will also be addressed in the EIR. The Project Applicants proposal, which could include the use of building-integrated wind turbines, is identified in the NOP as the Developer-Sponsored Project.
A Community Preferred Plan has also been proposed for the project site. This plan, which will be evaluated in the forthcoming Draft EIR at the same level of detail as the applicants proposal described above, includes a Recology Expansion Variant. The Community Preferred Plan includes up to approximately 8 million square feet of office / industrial / commercial / institutional space, no residential development and approximately 330 acres of open space.
In addition to the development scenarios and variants identified above, a Renewable Energy Alternative (which includes wind-turbines erected immediately upwind of the Candlestick Point Windsurfing Area) and a No-Project Alternative will also be evaluated in the forthcoming EIR.
SFBA hereby requests that the EIR include appropriate studies and evaluations within the topics of Air Quality (alteration of existing air movement patterns) and Recreation (impacts on existing recreation resources), and consider the impacts that all structures proposed for the Baylands site may have on the windsurfing recreational use that takes place on the San Francisco Bay to the east of the Baylands site and Highway 101. Proposed buildings and/or wind turbines on the Baylands Project site could have a significant impact on the westerly winds that make Candlestick Point State Park and the waters south of the park a premiere windsurfing spot.
Existing Windsurfing Use
Candlestick Point State Park is one of the premier windsurfing spots in the Bay Area. It is one of the more favored locations for windsurfing and it is ideal for beginners and intermediates because there is very little swell or wave action to contend with as a result of the short distance between the upwind shoreline and the windsurfing area. In these flat-water conditions, beginner and intermediate windsurfers can develop skills that are hard to master in wavy and choppy waters, and advanced windsurfers have a less hectic environment in which to learn trick/freestyle moves. Candlestick Point Park is the only practical place for beginner and intermediate windsurfers to windsurf within the City and County of San Francisco. The three nearest alternate launch sites (Oyster Point - 3 miles, Crissy Field - 8 miles, Ocean Beach - 8 miles) are appropriate for advanced windsurfers only because of the on-water conditions... offshore winds, strong currents or heavy surf.
The launch area at Candlestick Point State Park is located approximately 100' SW of the parking circle at the south end of the Candlestick Point State Park parking lot. Windsurfers are most efficient traveling perpendicular to the wind, so the windsurfers sailing from the launch typically travel back and forth on tracks that run roughly SSW and NNE in the face of wind that typically comes from the WNW. When sailing at Candlestick Point, windsurfers generally try to stay well the west (closer to I-101 and the shoreline) to ensure that they can make it back to the launch point in the face off offshore winds, or if they lose mobility through decreased wind speeds, damaged equipment or injury; (in other words, to prevent from being blown out into the Bay towards Oakland/ Alameda and not being able to return to their launching point at Candlestick Point.)
The picture below is a series of GPS tracks (provided by a windsurfer who regularly uses the site) superimposed on an aerial view of the windsurfing area at Candlestick Point and immediately downwind of the Baylands. A number of other windsurfers polled found these tracks to be representative of the primary sailing area, with the areas that are solid blue showing the most frequently used areas. At the southerly end of the sailing area, windsurfers approach within 500-1,000 of the shoreline and generally get closer to the shoreline along Highway 101 as they move in a southerly direction.
(See attachment Candlestick Sailing Area GPS)
Wind Impacts
Windsurfing generally requires strong and steady wind. As wind conditions become gustier, with greater variations in speed and direction, windsurfing becomes more difficult and less enjoyable as a recreational activity. Reduced wind velocity and increased turbulence are both factors that can affect wind conditions such that windsurfing becomes difficult or even impractical. Turbulent winds can also increase the risk of injury. If wind speeds are reduced greatly in the lulls, then the wind may not provide enough energy for windsurfers to keep a board planing on the surface of the water, resulting in very low sailing speeds, instability and falling into the water (similar to balancing on a bicycle with little, to no, forward movement).
During an impact analysis for an earlier project in Burlingame, wind tunnel analysis was used to look at potential impacts on wind velocity and turbulence. Information in the resulting environmental impact report (EIR) prepared by Charles Bennett of Environmental Science Associates (ESA) indicated that turbulent effect can travel 25-50 times the height of a solid obstruction. The experience of members of our windsurfing community confirms this rule. One notable case is the construction of a Marriott hotel in Aruba that has affected wind well offshore.
Beyond height, the width and the shape of a building or tower or other obstruction also can have an impact on how the passing wind is affected. In the case of wind turbines, the towers would likely have a nominal impact on the wind because they present a relatively narrow obstruction, while the blades could have a more significant impact because they are designed to capture energy from the wind as they convert wind velocity into blade speed. In the case of buildings, narrower and less angular buildings may allow the wind to recover more quickly and over shorter distances.
It is important that an analysis of wind impacts evaluate both changes in velocity and changes/increases in turbulence and/or turbulence intensity. A standard that examines wind by looking at average velocity only cannot distinguish between wind that is averaging 20 m.p.h. and gusting between 18-22 m.p.h. and wind that is averaging 20 m.p.h. and gusting from 5-35 m.p.h. While the measure of average velocity would see these wind conditions as identical, the first wind condition would be ideal for windsurfing while the second would make windsurfing impractical or impossible. Windsurfers can adjust to changes in wind speed by rigging a larger or smaller sail; however, windsurfers cannot adjust to changes in turbulence because each sail has a limited range within which it can function well.
SFBA strongly recommends performing wind tunnel analysis of your Alternatives with ESA acting as the consultant. The figure below identifies likely data points that could be used for that study.
(See Attachment Candlestick Wind Study Data Points)
The aerodynamic and hydrodynamic issues of windsurfing, and the complexities of how windsurfers are affected by the wind and other conditions, are both complex and to some degree site-specific. SFBA would be glad to work with you and any consultant who works on the preparation of the EIR in order to lend our knowledge and assist in developing any information that you feel would be helpful. Please do not hesitate to contact me, and I would appreciate being advised of any issue that might be of concern to our members. Please also add me to the project mailing list for the Baylands Specific Plan EIR and any other matters related to the Baylands Project.
SFBA is also concerned about the cumulative impacts of the Baylands Project combined with impacts of other pending projects in the immediate area, including Bayview Hunters Point, Executive Park, and Visitation Valley Schlage Locke. We are specifically interested in a comprehensive analysis of the combined projects on 1) traffic and transportation impacts, 2) air quality impacts, 3) visual impacts, 4) aesthetic impacts, 5) scenic impacts, 6) resources impacts, and 7) impacts on open space.
We look forward to an EIR that tests and improves the environmental performance of this ambitious project.
William Robberson, President
San Francisco Boardsailing Association
(415) 307-7720
Download the original letter under public comments at "http://www.brisbaneca.org/node/784"
Candlestick Wind Study data points.jpg
11512 Time(s)
Candlestick sailing area GPS.jpg
11512 Time(s)
Back to top
Joined: 14 Feb 2005
Posts: 264
Location: San Mateo
Posted: Wed Jan 12, 2011 1:53 pm
Post subject:
excellent letter! great job!!
Back to top
Joined: 19 May 1998
Posts: 3320
Location: Leo
Posted: Wed Jan 12, 2011 3:35 pm
Post subject:
So is there a petition to sign or letter writing campaign at this time?
Back to top
Joined: 09 Oct 2007
Posts: 123
Posted: Thu Feb 03, 2011 5:52 pm
Post subject:
Yes, to whom can we write?
Back to top
Joined: 17 Jul 2012
Posts: 56
Posted: Fri Nov 29, 2013 11:50 am
Post subject:
The time is nearly here when we will really need your help to save Candlestick Windsurfing.
We've almost finished preparing comments to reject the conclusions of the "no significant impact" claim for the Brisbane Baylands project.
******** Here is why you should care ********
- See the project:
- This project begins just 500' upwind of the water's edge, includes over 10 million square feet of development, possible 160' high hotels and office buildings, possible sports stadium, a 4x increase in the Recology expansion and introduction of biomass (compost) processing for entire San Francisco City, and much more.
- The highest buildings and the Recology expansion are projected to be immediately upwind of the main Candlestick Area closest to the launch right in the flow of Alemany Gap. The plan would also tie Geneva Ave into a new 101 Highway exit right through this point. This could not be a worse possible configuration for Candlestick wind.
- Amazingly, they don't even have a finished plan for where the buildings will be located, how high they will ultimately be, or other site plan details yet they somehow still stuck something in a wind tunnel and decided it won't make any difference to Candlestick windsurfing. Even more amazing is that they did not even consider impacts on the sailing area within 1,000' from Western shore along Highway 101.
- 58% of the measured impact data points showed a reduction in average wind speeds between 5% and 11%. We have calculated that an average wind speed decrease of 5% through large portions of the site would reduce sailing days by up to 20% based on current required conditions and current sail/board sizes. This does not include the frustration from the wind shadows and turbulent conditions that would become the rule not the exception.
- While Candlestick is surely threatened by this, the bigger picture is even more frightening. The same bogus-logic threshold that was used at Coyote Point recently to claim "no significant impact" for a development adjacent to the water is being used here again at Candlestick. If this claim sticks here, it will most certaintly establish a precedent that will allow upwind development anywhere in the Bay to have much greater impact.
******** How you can help ********
We will publish our comments here and elsewhere, but we need lots of people to write in and voice their objection to the plan. We also need to make contacts at the various environmental public and private agencies and interest groups to gain their support. Media attention would also be invaluable.
If you are thankful this season, then find a way to give back in return. This is a great way to take a few moments and help a very worthy windsurfing cause. Everyone says that windsurfing is dead. It is not dead, and it is in fact growing in the Bay Area. But it will certainly be killed if we don't act to save it.[/url]
Back to top
Joined: 03 Apr 2000
Posts: 1439
Posted: Fri Nov 29, 2013 1:57 pm
Post subject:
Right on, Brad.
Let us all know when it's time.
"No significant impact", my arse.
Back to top
Joined: 17 Jul 2012
Posts: 56
Posted: Mon Dec 16, 2013 9:44 am
Post subject: Save Candlestick -- now is this time
The public comments from Candlestick Preservation Association have been completed and an online petition at change.org is now available.
To sign the petition, please visit:
It takes literally 30 seconds and an e-mail will be automatically generated and sent to Brisbane to register a prepared set of comments.
The deadline for public comments is January 24th, 2014.
The public comments and additional information are available at:
In a nutshell, the Baylands development is 700 acres, with buildings possibly up to 200 feet above sea level nearly 500 feet from the edge of the Bay and the possibility of a 1 million square foot trash plant.
The words "potential" and "possible" are frequently used in this subject because despite having numerous alternative "programs," there are no specific building foot prints yet somehow they still stuck something in a wind tunnel (in several pieces analyzed separately).
Other wind tunnel impact studies such as 300 Airport Boulevard (Coyote Point) or Executive Park (Candlestick) were on the order of 1/20th the size of the Baylands project and had specific building footprints identified and even in some cases typical elevation sections specified.
It is possible that once this Baylands EIR is approved, no further wind impact studies will be conducted on the 700 acres for potentially 12 million square feet of new buildings.
The environmental consultants for the Baylands analysis also didn't even have a criteria for minimum acceptable wind level conditions for windsurfing in the analysis so they merely thresholded the relative reduction in wind speed. Thresholding the relative change is meaningless.
We prepared an alternative analysis that looked at three years of historic iWindsurf data and applied the projected relative wind speed reductions of 5% to 10% and found that anywhere from 9% to 44% of the days over the previous three years between April through September would have been lost based on multiple sets of very conservative minimum acceptable conditions for windsurfing at Candlestick.
Another big problem is that they defined the sailable area based on one specific wind direction only and did not include much area near the Western shore. Therefore, much of the frequently sailed area closer to Highway 101 that would be most impacted by the development was not even analyzed.
Finally while the air quality section reveals the substantial presence of carcinogens from the Recology facility, it does not discuss any practical standards, enforcement, or penalties program for controlling this pollution or managing the odor.
Recology was fined by BAAQMD just $300 from July to September of this year for its odor pollution. Brisbane doesn't even have the jurisdiction within San Francisco or the Bay to monitor the downwind air pollution from a possibly quadrupled facility that may also now include compost processing.
Thank you for your interest and help in this! Since there are so few windsurfers and even fewer who get involved, every single one of you who makes an effort here will certainly make a difference.
Back to top
Joined: 03 Apr 2000
Posts: 1439
Posted: Mon Dec 16, 2013 7:47 pm
Post subject:
Tell your buddies. Let's get some more signatures!
Back to top
Joined: 17 Jul 2012
Posts: 56
Posted: Mon Dec 16, 2013 11:20 pm
Post subject:
geohaye wrote:
Tell your buddies. Let's get some more signatures!
Thank you!!
Back to top
Display posts from previous:
All Posts
1 Day
7 Days
2 Weeks
1 Month
3 Months
6 Months
1 Year
Oldest First
Newest First
iWindsurf Community Forum Index
Southwest USA, Hawaii, Mexico
All times are GMT - 5 Hours
Jump to:
Select a forum
Windsurfing Discussion
Regional Discussion: Places, Sessions, Events, Access, Associations
Southwest USA, Hawaii, Mexico
Northwest USA & Canada
Eastern and Central USA & Canada
Europe, Caribbean & S. America, Australia & NZ, Africa, Asia
Industry News & Promotions
Politics, Off-Topic, Opinions
Lost and Found
Self-Help Forum
WeatherFlow Labs
post new topics in this forum
reply to topics in this forum
edit your posts in this forum
delete your posts in this forum
vote in polls in this forum
attach files in this forum
download files in this forum
Log in
© Copyright 1999-2007
WeatherFlow, Inc
Contact Us
Privacy Policy
Terms and Conditions
Ad Marketplace
Powered by
© 2001, 2005 phpBB Group

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Difference between revisions of "London/Hammersmith and Fulham"
Revision as of 08:01, 3 November 2012
Hammersmith and Fullham is a borough in west London, and boasts 3 Premiership football teams within its boundaries.
This is a large district of the inner west of London.
The most well known part of the district is perhaps Shepherd's Bush which has long been a first home in London to second and first generation immigrants. While this is less true today than in the past, the area undergoing gradual gentrification, beautification and development, there is still a substantial expatriate population (including a great many travelling Antipodeans).
Culturally, Shepherd's Bush is well known as the home of the BBC with the Television Centre located on Wood Lane in the White City sub-district. The Bush was also the fictional home of Steptoe & Son at Oil Drum Lane. The members of two influential British bands, The Who and the Sex Pistols grew up in Shepherd's Bush. It is also the home of newly promoted football team Queens Park Rangers (QPR), who play in the top-level Premier League.
Elsewhere in the district, the residential riverside areas of Fulham have been hugely gentrified in the past 20 years and it is now sometimes difficult to determine where (previously much grander) Chelsea ends and Fulham begins. Fulham is also home to the EPL football teams Fulham FC and Chelsea FC (at Fulham Broadway).
Get in
By tube
Tube stations servicing this district are:
By bus
Bus 94 runs between Piccadilly Circus, via Oxford Street, Notting Hill, Holland Park, Shepherd's Bush and Chiswick to Acton Green (also a Night Bus service).
Buses 28, 74, 190, 391, 414, 430, and night buses N11, N22 and N28, all stop in Fulham.
By train
Shepherds Bush Railway Station is served by three trains per hour between Clapham Junction and Willesden Junction, and one train per hour between Milton Keynes and East Croydon.
By road
The A219 links Fulham with the A205 (South Circular) and with the A4.
Get around
Cinema, Theatre and concerts
There are loads of great restaurants in Fulham along the high streets and also a distinct lack of any chain restaurants (don't worry, you can find all of these along Putney High St if you're desperate). It is often a good idea to just start walking along any of the main roads and you should have more choice of places to eat than you will ever need.
Uxbridge Road is noted for good-value and diverse restaurants.
The River Cafe - Classy Italian and modern gourmet cuisine at Rainville Rd, Fulham, (not to be confused with the cafe at Craven Cottage which is open non-matchdays and nice for a quick bite or afternoon tea). A 3-course meal will set you back from £60-100, with lovely views of the Thames, you can often glimpse a celeb or two dining here.
Shepherds Bush Green contains many large chain pubs. Uxbridge Road and Goldhawk Road have smaller, more laid-back bars and gastro-pubs. Fulham is full of highly rated, popular pubs some of them right by the Thames.
Shepherd's Bush and Hammersmith are well known as the home of many discount hotels (some of low quality, unfortunately) and B&Bs. With the gradual gentrification of the area, more comfortable and expensive options are appearing.


text:
Nov. 1, 2008
By Babson College Sports Information
BABSON PARK, Mass. – The Babson College men's soccer team defeated visiting MIT, 2-1, in a showdown of regionally-ranked New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) powers on Saturday, helping the Beavers clinch the regular season conference title and the top seed in the upcoming NEWMAC Tournament. Babson, ranked third in New England by the NCAA, improved to 14-4-1 overall and 5-0-1 in the NEWMAC with its seventh straight victory. The Engineers, ranked fourth in the region, fell to 14-2-2 overall and 4-1-1 in the conference.
Babson took a 1-0 lead less than 20 minutes into the contest as Sean Gleason hit a long service from the right side of the field that deflected off an MIT defender. The ball then caromed directly to Chris Morris who ripped a shot from the top of the box inside the left post.
It remained a one-goal game until early in the second half, when the Beavers tacked on a key insurance goal. Max Walker received the ball at midfield, dribbled through several MIT defenders, and dished off to Billy Nickerson in the middle of the box. Nickerson then tucked a shot into the lower right corner for his ninth goal of the year at 52:53.
MIT cut its deficit in half less than four minutes later as Jason Zhu hit a hard shot into the box that was blocked by a Babson player. Christian Therkelsen then hit the rebound off the outstretched hands of diving keeper Peter Crowley and inside the right post at 56:49. The Engineers would manage just two more shots on net the rest of the way – both of which were handled by Crowley – and Therkelsen's free kick in the final four seconds was blocked by the Babson wall as the Beavers held on for the 2-1 win.
Crowley finished with four saves in the victory for Babson while Tom Caldwell also stopped four shots for MIT.


text:
Manage your account and access personalized content. Sign up for an Oracle Account
Access your cloud dashboard, manage orders, and more. Sign up for a free trial
Oracle's complete family of application infrastructure products—from the #1 Java application server to SOA and enterprise portals—are integrated with Oracle Applications and technologies to speed implementation and lower the cost of management and change. Best-of-breed offerings and unique hot-pluggable capabilities provide a foundation for innovation and extend the business value of existing investments.
This comprehensive family of products is now even more seamlessly integrated to help you create, run, and manage agile and intelligent business applications. Oracle Fusion Middleware 11g's hot-pluggable architecture allows you to make the most of your current investments in applications and technology, while also taking advantage of modern hardware and software architectures. The goal of this release is to maximize your efficiency in both IT and business processes to give you the agility to adapt and innovate. Oracle Fusion Middleware 11g is the foundation for innovation.
(See supported system configurations for all Oracle Fusion Middleware products)


text:
Tasmanian Premier Lara Giddings will take a massive deficit and net debt to the next state election after delivering what could be her last budget.
Ms Giddings, who is also state treasurer, has revealed a deficit which blew out to $426 million in 2012/13, $143 million more than forecast.
The 2013/14 deficit is predicted to be $266 million, with a return to a negligible surplus put off from 2013/14 to 2016/17.
Tasmania will be $226 million in net debt in 2014, about $440 per person, which Ms Giddings argues is the lowest per capita figure in the country, but is believed to be a state record.
Delivering her third budget, the premier shied away from big cuts like the $1.4 billion she shaved in 2011/12, but also resisted sweeteners before the state election due in March and with her government languishing in the polls.
Tasmania's participation in DisabilityCare has been funded to the tune of $16.8 million, while $83 million has been provided to education over four years with the state expected to sign up to the Gonski school reforms.
"Reforms of this scale come with a significant price tag, but it is a price worth paying given the long-term social and economic benefits that they will deliver," Ms Giddings said.
"It is a price that Tasmania would not have been able to countenance without the financial discipline we imposed two years ago."
Falling GST revenue of $100 million over four years, lower than expected returns from state taxes and decreased earnings from state-owned electricity businesses contributed to the bottom line, Ms Giddings said.
The devastating bushfires in January had cost the state about $45 million, she said.
The state's payroll tax exemption burden will be increased from $1 million to $1.25 million, benefiting more than 2000 businesses and paid for by the abolition of the $7000 first home buyers' grant for those buying existing dwellings.
Police will receive an extra $32 million over four years with recruitment only recently resuming following the cuts of two years ago.
Ms Giddings forecast a drop in unemployment from 7.4 per cent to 6.75, with 9000 jobs created across the forward estimates, and growth of two per cent in 2013/14.
"Treasury is now forecasting a more positive economic outlook, including a return to stronger dwelling investment, household spending, business investment and, most importantly, jobs growth," she said.


text:
Opinion: Another Lawless ObamaCare Delay
Editorial board member Joe Rago on the administration's decision to delay the employer mandate. Photo credit: Getty Images.
This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.
I ... I ... welcomes the opinion Journal why Mary Kissel ... The Obama administration announced yesterday to yet another delay ... to the president's signature health care law ... this was just making things up as he goes a long one not delay the entire law I've got editorial board member Joe rego joining me now Joe and ... is legal ... well it I think it's of dubious legality of the statute defines when this man ... services started this post to start ... this year last summer they delayed it ... on by a year another filling in ... for a ... lot of businesses by another year for other businesses by two years maybe indefinitely so ... this is this is a ... pretty on time ... and unique about legal position as the fly by to see you can snap ... it typical way the employer mandate why not go ahead and the way the individual mandate to ... why think it does betray a bias for corporations over people ... in an unusual ... by this and it would be great to ... delay everything but but obviously this is sort of ... full steam ahead and and they're they're going to have this love no matter what problems they created for work for us is that I need your political ... well I think I mean that's the real question you marry me where where in a big debate right now about ... how the health care law affects the labor market how it affects ... the incentives to work how it affects ... the incentives for job creation ... and that we've we've been told by liberals ... that that that that this is this is the root of Punto workers that this is a huge benefit to jobs and economic growth ... and if that's true then why delayed the employer mandate shouldn't show are two humming workers by your own logic ... by taking this path airport and James rant on next sat to talk about exactly that report that I in in the logic behind this ... I it it does the employer mandate essential to making Obamacare war ... that's what that's what we were told that the time I mean this this this is this is of all or part of the lights essential to its ... claim of of universal coverage and and so the gets a big it as a core part of a lot out of the conservative alternative shows and getting any kind of traction impressed ... in light of ... the of yet another delay to what liberals are a little slow fix our healthcare system will I think all the disruption that were seen all the problems that are being caused by water ... softening people are hoping opening them up to two a genuine reform alternative ... ideas that can happen as long as present Obama is in the White House ... know but but I think they are starting to get traction in the sense of what you know choice and competition are no longer abstractions but with real things that are being taken away from us ... and we want ... to get ... a sense that there's nervousness among Democrats particularly those that are up in the midterm elections ... about this delay in and out the mess that Obamacare has become well I think that's why you're seeing ... these kind of delays in concert unilateral administrator for REITs because they they are causing real problems ... in the market for business and the Democrats are coming out of sync ... I'm I'm up for seven ... you know in just a few months like please help me out here with with my constituents so the these are politically driven by ... BP in part to less publicly driven possibly Wallace Delays editorial board member Joe rego thank so much for joining us ...


text:
Welcome to the best FREE resource for amateur radio repeater information around the world. We have the most up-to-date amateur radio repeater listings (updated by you, our admins, and repeater coordinators). This site is different than others because we use local admins that collect repeater data. No repeater directory can be 100% up-to-date, but we believe this one is more up-to-date and comprehensive than any other you can find. Visitors are invited to update and add listings. You can also rate and comment on the repeaters.
We have comprehensive repeater data for repeaters utilizing IRLP, Echolink, AllStar, WIRES, D-Star, DMR, NXDN, Yaesu System Fusion, and P-25. This is your one-stop shop for repeater data. We cross-reference EchoLink, IRLP, and AllStar status and offer many export functions for Google Maps, Google Earth, Excel, CHIRP, G4HFQ, RT Systems, Kenwood, and other programming software platforms.
View Repeaterbook Overview slide presentation.
|Quick Search North America / Quick Search Outside North America: Pre-formatted searches with a state/province or country. Preconfigured searches include:
Nationwide (North America): Search the entire U.S. or Canada by band or feature.
Travel (North America): Search for repeaters covering a specific highway.
Proximity (North America): Search for repeaters within a certain distance from a location.
Free Text (North America): Search for a keyword within the database.
Vacancy (North America): Search for an open repeater pair.
Google Site Search: Search the entire site with the power of Google.
Do you love repeaterbook.com and what we do for the Ham Radio community? Please support us!
The site's success is based on the accuracy of the information that is found here, so please contribute accurate information generously.


text:
Tagged: pitchers and catchers report
Offseason is ON! Little Signing Here, Little Signing There…
As much as Yankees fans may try to convince themselves that they are okay with GM Brian Cashman doing nothing, parts of us are just not ready to fully accept that nothing will actually happen. I'm okay with it, but I still can't believe that it's going to be this way. All I've ever known in my lifetime were the Yankees that went out there and made moves, whether via free agency or trades. I haven't liked every move my franchise has made in my lifetime, but overall I'd say they've done a pretty respectable job, considering in my 18 years they have won 5 World Series Championships, and I only remember them not making the playoffs once, back in 2008.
And it's hard to believe that they'll do nothing. I'll never forget the day the Yankees signed Mark Teixeira on December 23, 2008. I went on the Yankees website during my last period in school only to find this article titled, "Hal: No Yanks offers to Tex…" and I left school thinking that my Christmas would be ruined. 6:30 later that night, an article was posted saying that they had signed Teixeira. It's impossible for me to forget these kinds of things. How can one really take the Yankees organization seriously?
Sure, there are no free agents that appeal to the needs of the Yankees right now. Starting pitching, as Cashman has tirelessly noted, is the number one priority of this team. As each player – Wilson, Darvish, Buehrle, Danks, Gonzalez – found a new home that wasn't New York, the frustrations of some fans boiled over, and rightfully so. We have to wonder what they're up to if they let all of these players go by.
Sometimes I wondered if Brian Cashman was even conscious. Where has he been this offseason?
Although not incredibly exciting whatsoever, Cashman has made some moves for the Yankees – small, miniscule things that don't change much – but at least he has proven to me that he is indeed alive, and may actually be working.
The two relatively recent signings were that of former Red Sox reliever Hideki Okajima and returning right handed bench player Andruw Jones.
The Hideki Okajima signing doesn't do much for me. He had three great years in Boston and then became less and less effective. At 36 years old, the lefty was awarded with a Minor League deal from the Yankees and will compete for the otehr lefty-specialist spot in the bullpen. Boone Logan has managed to hold his own with that job for the Yankees, so even if the Yankees aren't satisfied with their second-lefty options, I don't really think it's the end of the world.
I expected the Yankees to bring back Andruw Jones, so I'm not especially excited about this move, but I am very pleased. Andruw Jones exceeded my expectations last season, hitting .247 with 13 HR and 33 RBI, but really picking it up after the All-Star break, where he hit .291 and earned more playing time. I thought he would go off to another team and try to be an everyday player, but I'm glad he's still with the Yankees. He has 15 years of experience, but he's still just 34 and still has a baby-face and charming smile. And for just $2 million with additional incentives, I'd say Jones is a steal.
As I noted earlier, neither of these signings will satisfy the hungry Yankees fans. They aren't spectacular, but they are practical, wise investments that are low-risk and high-reward. You really can't go wrong with either Andruw Jones or Hideki Okajima.
Speaking of low-risk and high-reward and not going wrong, and keeping mind the number one priority of the Yankees this offseason, I'm wondering why the Yankees aren't going after Roy Oswalt. Like Jones, Oswalt is a 34 year old veteran with over 10 years of experience in the Bigs. All he wants is a 1-year contract anyways, so even if he sucks, after the one year, he'll be gone. With a career ERA of 3.21, it's highly unlikely that he will completely flop. The Yankees are concerned with his back issues, but really? A one year contract, you won't even do that? They signed Bartolo Colon last season, who had more than his fair share of injuries, and he was fantastic for them.
Oswalt is definitely someone for the Yankees to think about, but they better hurry. If they think for too long, he might be gone like the rest of them…
I'm not going to get my hopes up, because I don't want to be disappointed. But this will remain in the back of my mind until I hear otherwise.
42 days until pitchers and catchers report!
I can't wait to see my YANKEES.


text:
The skills that your IT leaders need to support the engaged IT department of the 21st century are being honed for hours every night, yet most IT departments are structured to actively suppress them.
Gaming is big. Gartner estimates that spending on gaming reached over $US67 billion ($62 billion) in 2010.
And it's not 12-year-old children or even college students playing in their rooms instead of going to class. In the US, the average gamer is 37 years old and has been playing for 12 years.
Eighty-two percent are 18 years old or older. Forty-two percent are women. Gamers are not just "IT people," but associates in every corner of your business (and those of your business partners, customers, regulators and competitors).
Anyone who has played a multiplayer online game such as World of Warcraft or the Battlefield series is familiar with the following scenario. You are dropped into an unfamiliar map. There is a group of people playing different roles with different skills.
There may be some people you actually know, some you have played with before and some you have never met — either physically or virtually. The group quickly comes together and agrees objectives.
If someone on the team has played this map before, he or she might take the lead — if no one is familiar with it, a leader will emerge from among the players. In the middle of the quest, unanticipated circumstances arise. The team regroups, changes tactics and a new leader who is more familiar with this particular challenge takes over.
These players are exhibiting precisely the skills required of the current generation of IT leaders:
- Leadership
- Collaborative problem solving
- Situational awareness
- Dynamic engagement
- Practical goal orientation
If these skills are so pervasive, why are they so hard to find in IT? Why do CIOs tell us that the biggest single challenge they face is a skills gap in these areas and that IT is very bad at developing these skills?
In short, current IT cultures actively suppress these skills. The command and control structure is hierarchical and formally articulated.
By contrast, games are meritocracies. While it may seem to those more accustomed to traditional management techniques that cultivating such an environment will lead to anarchy and chaos, the truth is that game environments are highly structured, typically have many more rules than traditional work environments and the players are encouraged to develop strategies to thrive within those rule sets.
CIOs cannot wave a magic wand over the IT department and change all the behavioral norms so that leaders can emerge dynamically and teams will become instantly productive.
However, there are several things that CIOs can do to begin to take advantage of the gaming phenomenon.
Sponsor gaming events (these can be virtual or real) outside normal working hours and encourage staff from all parts of the business to play.
Extend invitations to the gamers in the organisations of your strategic customers and business partners.
Create a community of gamers in your organisation — and challenge it to use gaming techniques to solve real-world business problems.
And perhaps, most importantly, CIOs should try gaming themselves. It is difficult to appreciate the skills that gaming fosters, or even to understand the dynamics, if you are only an observer.
Anne Lapkin is Gartner's research vice president in New York.


text:
Accenture collaborated with one of the world's leading wireless technology provider to execute a product lifecycle management (PLM) environment and proprietary data separation, in conjunction with establishing a new engineering environment as part of a business divestiture initiative.
The client is a leading next-generation wireless technology provider globally. With its innovative solutions, it has contributed to the evolution of digital communications, making wireless more personal, affordable and accessible.
Continuing its focus on core business activities, the client decided to divest one of its business units—a wholly-owned subsidiary and leader in telematics and fleet-management technology.
As a technology-driven business, one of the priorities for that subsidiary to sustain its business upon separation was to create an independent product lifecycle management (PLM) ecosystem. It was equally important that this business unit's proprietary engineering data was decoupled with no intellectual property (IP) leakage from the client once the two entities became independent.
The client sought Accenture's help for this mission-critical initiative.


text:
Since many people use mutual funds to build wealth over a long period of time, such as retirement savings, a disciplined, regular investment program is an ideal way to meet your financial goals. Dollar-cost averaging is one of the best and simplest methods available to build long-term wealth. While the phrase may sound fancy, dollar-cost averaging merely involves investing a fixed sum of money at regular intervals, regardless of how the market is performing. By following this strategy, an investor will purchase more shares at lower prices and fewer shares at higher prices, the result of which is a lower average cost per share. This concept is best illustrated by looking at a hypothetical example.
Let's assume that an investor, John, has $10,000 that he wants to invest in the Go-Go Growth Fund. He is concerned, however, that if the market is near a peak he could suffer substantial near-term losses if there is a market correction. As a result, John decides that instead of investing the entire $10,000 at once, he will invest $2,000 each quarter over the next five quarters. His results are shown below.
Go-Go Fund Share Price
Amount Invested
Shares Purchased
Total Value
Quarter 1
Quarter 2
Quarter 3
Quarter 4
Quarter 5
Average Go-Go Fund Share Price
Average Share Price Paid by John
Go-Go Fund Total Return
Total Return for John
As shown in the example, dollar-cost averaging enables an investor to increase potential returns from more volatile investments. In fact, market declines can actually benefit the investor who dollar-cost averages.
Although dollar-cost averaging is a simple investment strategy, it takes considerable fortitude to maintain it. The first challenge is to set aside money every week, month, quarter, etc. This can be difficult given bills, unexpected expenses, and occasional splurges, but investing starts with saving. One idea is to "pay yourself" first. Set aside the amount of money you want to save each pay check, then pay your bills and provide for necessities. Finally, use whatever money is left for entertainment, vacations, shopping, etc.
The second challenge is to continue investing regardless of what the market is doing, which can be very difficult when the market is declining. Dollar-cost averaging is a strategy for long-term investing, so try not to get hung up on the market's daily movements. Remember that market declines enable you to buy cheaper shares, which may lead to outsized returns over the long haul.


text:
The ultimate goal for the future of humanity, as we all know, is to become sustainable. The cosmetics industry is no exception. I'm happy to report that the United States EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) lists Principles of Green Chemistry on their web site for the entire industry to aspire to. These principles were first published in the book Green Chemistry: Theory and Practice, in 1998. They include:
1. Preventing waste.
2. Designing safer chemicals and products. In other words, trying to make raw materials as non-toxic as possible.
3. Designing less hazardous chemical syntheses. In other words, when combining chemicals, make sure the resulting combination is non-toxic.
4. Using renewable feedstocks. In other words, using agricultural materials that are renewable.
5. Using catalysts. In other words, using a very small amount of a special chemical compound which can carry out a reaction multiple times, thus eliminating waste.
6. Avoiding chemical derivatives. In other words, use the original compound, not parts of it which require distillation or chemical reactions to separate out.
7. Maximizing atom economy. In other words, use everything. Don't throw anything away.
8. Using safer solvents. In other words, use water or other safe solvents whenever you can and avoid more toxic solvents.
9. Increasing energy efficiency. In other words, produce products at room temperature so you don't need to heat or cool anything for prolonged periods of time.
10. Designing chemicals and products to degrade after use. In other words, make products that will break down after use and not accumulate in the environment.
11. Analyzing in real time to prevent pollution. In other words, test as you go to avoid transporting materials for testing, storing materials for testing, etc.
12. Minimizing the potential for accidents. In other words, use safe ingredients which won't explode or otherwise be released into the environment.
That all sounds great, right? Well, it is. But the industry is not close to being able to brag about being "green". I have spoken to several sources about it, and the consensus is that achieving a "green" industry is at least a decade away. I have a hunch that if you were to press these industry insiders, they would honestly tell you it is probably more like two decades away. And if you looked down at their hands, I think they'd be tightly crossing their fingers, hoping for the best.
While Acne.org is admittedly not there yet either, when we make our products, we make sure to work with companies which actively employ available green technologies, and we stay on top of them, offering creative solutions whenever possible. If we can be a part of making a green industry happen in just a small way, we're proud to do so.


text:
Sam Claflin: Finnick Odair in 'Hunger Games: Catching Fire'?
Sam Claflin has reportedly been offered the pivotal role of Finnick Odair in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire!
The 26-year-old actor, who recently starred opposite Kristen Stewart in Snow White and the Huntsman, is being lined up for the role, according to Variety.
Finnick is the youngest person to have won the Hunger Games and is not trusted by Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) until he (SPOILER!) saves Peeta (Josh Hutcherson) after he runs into a force field during the Quarter Quell.
Oscar winner Melissa Leo is the frontrunner for the role of Mags, while Emmy winner Tony Shalhoub is being courted for the role of Beetee.
It was recently announced that Amanda Plummer landed the role of Wiress and that Philip Seymour Hoffman will play Plutarch Heavensbee.
WHAT DO YOU THINK of Sam Claflin as Finnick in Catching Fire?


text:
North News:
Newsletter Issue 3/2013
- The new Dyno is out!
- The new Race LTD 69 is out!
- North Team scores in Egypt!
- Make my day New Zealand
Welcome to the world of speed!
All racers amongst us will be happy to hear the newest Dyno and the newest race boards are available in your local store up from now! If you want to win, don't hesitate and get your gear now. If you're looking for a fun lightwind kite, you should also test the Dyno, even on twintips, it gets you going in the lightest breeze. Not convinced? Have a look at the newest racing results from Egypt. We're always happy to see the amazing variety of our sport, and are happy to present you part III of Jérémie Eloy's trip to New Zealand! Hope you'll enjoy it!
Your North Kiteboarding Team
The new Dyno is out!
Speed has a new dimension. The new Dyno is out and has proven its performance already in the first races. We built you the tool, now it´s up to you to win!
The new Race LTD "69 Edition" is out!
Let´s listen to the product designer Sky Solbach himself and get some first hand information: "I'm really proud of the design I was able to create together with the help of Ken Winner, Olivier Dansin and the whole North Race Team. Designing and developing equipment to win races requires consistent and measured testing in a wide range of wind and water conditions by dedicated testers.
North Race Team scores in Egypt!
The African Continental Championships in Egypt was the perfect way for the North Kiteboarding Race Team to start the season. The final medal race day was a huge one for the North Kiteboarding Race Team and the pretrack training, tactics, strategy & shared knowledge really paid off... (photo credit: Icarus Sailing Media)
Make my day New Zealand part III, by Jérémie Eloy:
The third episode of Jérémie Eloy exploring New Zealand. Follow him on his 6 weeks of adventures driving through an amazing country, kiting spots where maybe nobody has ever been kitesurfing. The concept was simple : 1 camper, 3 friends, tons of toys to enjoy and a fabulous and challenging country. Get the popcorn out!!


text:
The economy is obviously not strong in space either.
Author: Jeff Havenshttp://www.jeffhavens.com
Jeff Havens is a professional development expert who addresses leadership, generational issues, and other areas of professional development through a unique blend of content and entertainment. Jeff has written for several business and tech publications including Fast Company, Entrepreneur, BusinessWeek, the WSJ, and has been featured on CNBC and Fox Business.


text:
Ladies Lambskin Wrap CoatForget diamonds, wrap coats are a lady's best friend! Don't believe us? Try out this super-soft, super-comfy, oh-so-stylish lambskin leather wrap coat and you'll see. Packing the luxe softness of genuine lambskin and the sophisticated, urbane charm of the tuxedo front, the coat is updated with chic roll-up cuffs and a wide-spread collar to make a style statement truly unique to you. The roomy open pockets on this imported piece of sheer beauty add functionality, while the detachable tie belt adds another layer of chic sophistication. When wearing, you can leave the coat open, or cinch it at the waist. Learn More
Regular Price: $480.00
Special Price $336.00
The Mixed Media DressAdding more versatility to the mixed media lineup is this stunning new dress that features the same comfort and flexibility that we offer to you in our mixed media pant and skirt. Made from a combination of lambskin leather and ponti stretch fabric, the dress is absolutely super comfortable and feels extra soft. The stretch fabric provides you with plenty of mobility, without compromising the overall design and appeal. The dress is designed to provide the perfect fit, regardless of your shape and size. The 36" back length allows plenty of space to move around, without affecting the overall comfort. The two tone color adds a vibrant appeal to the dress. Available in multiple color combinations so that you can buy more than one to add to your wardrobe! Learn More
Regular Price: $240.00
Special Price $168.00
The Mixed Media PantAre you looking for the right fit, the perfect style, and comfort in your choice of pants? Well, look no further then, as this exquisite pair of mixed media pants meets all your requirements. The style comes courtesy of the lambskin leather, which feels luxuriously soft and gentle to the touch. The ponti stretch fabric allows you to have plenty of mobility and also helps to give you the perfect fit. The combination of leather and stretch material delivers comfort, and the pants themselves are lined to the knee. Leather accented back pockets on the back stretch fabric add extra uniqueness to your style. The button closure in the front proves to be quite convenient and a 29 ¾ inch in-seam feels quite roomy, without appearing too loose. Learn More
Regular Price: $220.00
Special Price $154.00
Ladies Lambskin Wrap Coat with Detachable Fox collarThe Lambskin Wrap Coat is all about delving into luxury! The silky smooth lambskin leather rests gently against your skin, while the plush fur on the collar keeps you warm and cozy. Spacious open pockets tailored in the front are always ready to carry your keys, smartphones, and other necessities. The polysatin lining gives these wrap coats their signature finishing charm, while the adjustable rolled-up cuffs and tuxedo trims on the front have a charm of their own. The leather wrap coat can be worn in multiple ways, with or without the self tie belt, with or without the detachable genuine fox collar, but never without style. Learn More
Regular Price: $800.00
Special Price $560.00


text:
MILWAUKEE -- While Mark Buehrle switching from South Side to North Side sounds intriguing, it most likely is just a fantasy league bit of conversation.
The Cubs don't appear to be in the market for any high-priced free agents and Buehrle falls into that category. In fact, his likely $14 million asking price for four years probably is also too expensive for the White Sox.
It is very likely, however, that the Cubs have contacted Buehrle's representatives, among others, just to let them know the new guys in town are open for business.
While new Cubs GM Jed Hoyer won't comment on specific players, he did say, "I think it's important to express interest in the guys you're interested in early on, making calls to agents to make sure they know you're interested. Coming in late sometimes, a player looks at it like 'where has this team been? Maybe I was a second or third choice.' So expressing interest is important."
Buehrle is known to have drawn interest from several teams, most notably the Marlins and Yankees. But any National League team should be interested given his all-time best 24-6 interleague record. At Wrigley Field, he is 3-2 with a 4.80 ERA.
Twitter @davandyck


text:
Google Analytics User Interface Overview
Almost everyone nowadays user Google Analytics for website statistics and why not, it's extremely detailed and best of all it's free and reduces the load on your website server. In this video we give you an overview of the Google Analytics user interface. Sit back, relax and enjoy and remember the best way to actually learn this stuff, is to login to your account and play around viewing all manner


text:
|2008-02-25, 22:31
|Link #1
Join Date: Dec 2003
Age: 36
sola to be released by Bandai Visual USA (now Bandai Ent.)
As per Bandai Visual's website, and further described in a news release on ANN, sola will be released in North America by Bandai Visual USA. The first DVD is scheduled to be available on June 10th.
Pricing and release information has not yet been released. The Japanese release was spread over 5 DVDs containing 3 episodes each, with both Limited (8190 yen) and Regular Editions (6090 yen). According to a product page, it seems the American release will be sort of a cross between these two editions, including the postcards and a reversible cover in a normal DVD case.
So, since sola can now be considered "licensed", AnimeSuki's normal rules about licensed anime apply. You may not request downloads for the show, nor may you discuss fansubs of it.
|2008-02-26, 06:50
|Link #4
wingéd prettygirl
Indeed. It totally sucks that we can buy a licensed, high quality and eminently collectable version of a fun and enjoyable anime. It completely devalues the anime itself, and just isn't fair.
Honestly, if you don't want to buy it, don't. I know I will be though - Bandai's prices are higher, sure, but their presentation and content is pretty damn good, and quite frankly, the lack of dubs isn't a turn off for me at all, nor would I suspect it would bother a majority of the visitors to this forum. If you really want a luxury item, you pay for it. I'm personally saying thanks to Bandai - I never thought sola would make it overseas, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to enjoy it again, and in a format I can share and watch in a comfortable environment.
|2008-02-26, 10:49
|Link #6
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2004
I want licensors to forgo the dub to keep prices low, not do less work and keep prices high anyway. As for "presentation and content," as long as they keep whatever was on the R2, that's good enough. I don't want R1 only extras, or R2 content cut out.
If region codes didn't exist, I would have imported the Japanese discs.
|2008-02-26, 11:36
|Link #7
Senior Member
|2008-02-26, 13:08
|Link #8
Anime Snark
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Singapore
Age: 36
|2008-02-26, 16:14
|Link #9
Weapon of Mass Discussion
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: New York, USA
That sucks.
sola deserves better than this.
|2008-02-26, 17:13
|Link #10
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2004
|2008-02-26, 17:30
|Link #11
Join Date: Dec 2006
Don't forget that one has to live too, and buy food and pay for whatever they need.
|2008-02-26, 18:19
|Link #12
Join Date: Dec 2003
Age: 36
In any event... limiting its sales, absolutely. But I don't think a show like this was ever destined for any real "popularity" much beyond what it already has/had. If it doesn't air on Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, or some other American linear TV station, I don't see it having that great of an appeal anyway. Not necessarily an "excuse", but just a thought.
|2008-02-26, 19:41
|Link #13
Join Date: Jul 2007
The sad thing is they ask you to pay a premium price(50$) but what you get is a (bit better than) regular version of R2 which I believe that it was the same price about 50$, base on the their press release. However , I have to agree whatrelentlessflame said, this kind of series won't ever have its day on R1 land unless BV licenses it(actually they just distribute thier own work) or waiting 2 more years for cheap MB release. BV japan is not stupid, they know that no R1 company will license this serie. So, they let BV USA has it.
|2008-02-26, 20:08
|Link #14
Join Date: Dec 2003
Age: 36
And really, the comments in the industry these days are that anime licensors are licensing anime for as little as 0 advance (just a portion of each disc sold). With the DVD market being down the way it is, Bandai Visual probably figures that they won't be that much worse off just selling it themselves and keeping whatever profits they make. I guess it's more a sad statement on the current state of the anime DVD market than anything else.
|2008-02-26, 22:37
|Link #15
wingéd prettygirl
@ Mitsui Aoi
To make money, naturally enough. I wouldn't call the past few months a huge rush either, not compared to some recent years, when anything at all seemed to be licensed. There're still a few gems I wish would come across, Mahoraba amongst them, instead of some other shows that make it to the 'West'. Perhaps eventually.
The price is naturally a concern for many. Still, the way I see this is that if you really want it, you'll find a way to afford it. Hunt for bargains online, save up, whatever it takes. Anime and other entertainment items are, as I said, a luxury. Region codes... well, personally, I'm in Region 4 where I live. I import mostly Region 1, though some Region 2 anime. Perhaps you could find a region free DVD player somewhere?
That's a fair concern, and one I didn't consider. Apologies. But then, as rf has said, I wonder how popular sola could be even with a dub track. It is perhaps too niche to really 'make it big'. There is, however, the nice slippery slope that this argument begins to invoke, which is where to draw the line, and eventually we may have 'blockbuster' shows failing to achieve their potential based on marketing and costing decisions such as this... that could be worrisome. And I do hope that sola is well received by the public, I do. I'm just wondering, as I'm sure BV decided, whether the cost of producing a dub was worth it for the amount of people it would attract to the show.
Indeed, one must live, pay bills, rent, food, etc. I do it myself. And I do manage to buy the DVDs and such I want as well, if not immediately as I want them. Naturally, this is tempered by the fact that I'm a sub watcher and not a dub watcher, so to me this package is effectively not losing anything whatsoever for the gain in price, it is just more expensive than the norm - which, as I mentioned, I can deal with. I'm not the typical watcher, perhaps, your mileage may vary. But for those of us who don't care about the lack of a dub, and who don't mind waiting a bit to be able to afford our hobby, it's just wonderful to be able to buy the show at all.
|2008-02-27, 09:44
|Link #16
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2004
My concern is that (having watched sola through "alternative means") the show is simply not good enough for a premium price. There are better shows around, and not even they can convince me to pay more than $6 an episode.
|2008-02-28, 10:40
|Link #20
Always in Training
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Where the sky meets the sea
I was really hoping for a cool bundle set like the DVD+manga and a nice artbox. And it would be nice if BD would start giving out extras that are things I'm not capable of printing off from my computer (like bookmarks and "art cards"). I really am a sucker for extra items, and the wallscrolls, keychains, pins, and t-shirts that I get with other anime always pleases the idiot fanboy in me. If it were $50 for a DVD+manga+(really nice extra like the OST, a shirt, or a Masturi figure) I would be all over that.
|Thread Tools


text:
Cincinnati wedding makeup artist Rachel Lisa is a makeup veteran with over 15 years of experience in the business. A Cincinnati native, she trained professionally in Los Angeles at Makeup Designory, and was recently awarded Makeup Artist of the Year for Cincinnati. Rachel specializes in airbrush makeup and tanning.
Regions top rated makeup and hair stylists. We provide flawless airbrush makeup and hair for weddings and any occasions.
Makeup artistry is not just about applying makeup, it's a profession, it's a skill and it's a business. You must be trust worthy to do it.
Makeup artist and beauty consultant in Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus, Lexington, and Louisville. Airbrush wedding makeup. Please visit my website www.makeupelizabeth for more information!
With over 10 years experience in the cosmetics industry serving MAC, Prescriptives, Clinique, & Trish McEvoy CNC continues to satisfy. CNC comes to you at the location and time of your choice- eliminating appointments at salons & make up counters to give you the personal & professional make up experience you always desired.
Our ridiculously talented team of makeup artists boasts decades of experience, specifically in bridal makeup. We specialize in airbrush foundation and individual lash enhancements. Founded in 2005, our professionalism, reputation, and expertise set us apart from the rest!
For you and your wedding party, there is no better way to pamper yourself and your bridal party! We'll style your hair and veil, apply your makeup and make you relaxed and beautiful.
Local Makeup Artist Specializing in wedding and photo shoot makeup.
Kelly has had incredible opportunities to work with world renowned artists & products which enabled her to adapt into her artistry technique.
Providing beautifully applied makeup for your event! Experienced in weddings, homecomings, proms, date nights and other special events!
Cheek to Cheek offers professionally individual tailored beauty services for your special day!
Certified Makeup Artist available for brides and bridal parties. Will travel to Cincinnati and surrounding areas.
Experience a stress relieving scalp massage, mini facial and makeup refresher with each haircut. Call us today for more information on our services.
Over 15 years experience in bridal, commercial, tv/film makeup. Trained by Hollywood makeup artists. Complimentary makeup trial for early booking, as many brides book Ashley over a year in advance!
Professional makeup artist with over 10 years experience. Specializing in on-location airbrush makeup for bridal, print, fashion, and commercial.
Wedding day services are all on location so the bride can relax as I come and get her ready for this special moment! I use only the top prestige brands of professional makeup products. My makeup services are for the bride and the whole bridal party - servicing weddings in Toledo/Northwest, OH.
For the last nine years, I have provided on location makeup artistry for weddings and special occasion. I will travel in the greater Cincinnati area and will negotiate outside the area.
Let us help you plan your special day! Our consultant will help you determine your needs and design a customized Bridal Packages specifically for you.
Making Cincinnati Brides and Grooms look good and feel good for their special day!
I'm a makeup artist and skin care professional! I have done hundreds of makeup styles! I also provide skin care ahead of the big day so your skin is at its best for a day you will never forget! I offer false lash application, touch up goodie bag is complimentary, and finishing spray to keep your look at its best for the day
On~Location Makeup & Hair Vendor. We bring our skills to Dayton, Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky. We use all Premium quality products, including M.A.C. High Definition Airbrushing and the top of the line hair products, including Kenra, Paul Mitchell & Sexy Hair.
Free wedding day makeovers for you and your bridesmaids! Call today to schedule your appointment.
Your wedding day will be one of your most memorable experiences. You need a look that is customized to make your most beautiful features stand out. My focus is on simple beauty with a dramatic flare. My job is to make you look flawless and feel amazing.
Our mission here at Elevate Salon is to be that place where you can get away from everyday stresses of life and just relax! We want to take "YOU" to the next level. We believe in a consultative approach that will give you an end result that will far exceed your expectations. Let us take care of your wedding day needs.
Meeting your tanning needs since 1984. That's 27 years; making The Bronze Salon the longest continued owned and operated tanning salon in Ohio. We have been voted the best tanning in the Miami Valley.


text:
► Click here to buy Turf and Top Soil in Canterbury ◄
► Click here to buy Turf and Top Soil in Gravesend ◄
* Locally, Minimum Quantity Applies
• Finest
• Screened
• Free
Delivery in
1 Ton Bags *
• Hard Wearing
• Weed
• Cut Fresh
to Order
• Free Delivery *
Swaleside Turf is the leading supplier of the finest quality Turf and Top Soil in Bapchild and throughout Kent.
Using our specially selected blend of seeds, Swaleside Turf has over 50 years' experience growing and cultivating the finest quality Lawn Turf. All our Turf is hard wearing, weed treated and freshly cut to order in easy to lay rolls.
We can provide knowledgeable support and advice about the product that's best for you. However big or small the job, our helpful staff have the skills to exceed your expectations and we guarantee you will receive the first class service you deserve.
Offering a professional service and free local delivery on orders over minimum quantity, our staff can give you a free quotation. Call 07967 463327 or send us
an Email through the Contact us page.


text:
This is Malaysian flag which is look so identical to US flag. Rather than having different meaning for each symbol just like any other flag, this flag carry a little bit of remarkable. The 14 red and white line and the 14 points of the star carry a same meaning which is to show 14 states of Malaysia. Why must two symbols symbolising a same meaning? Is it so important to double highlighting that Malaysia have 14 states? Suddenly I realise that this a symbol of redundant, and superfluous. I'm being redundant here. too. lol. Two symbols carrying a meaning show that Malaysia practice double standards. No wonder Malaysia is so known for its double-standard standards. They already have subliminal message in their flag. This is what guide my brain to understand this redundant symbol of Malaysia. Thanks to obefiend.
Thanks to obefiend.
p/s: Like most people my age, I just existed.


text:
2010 Catalyst Census: Fortune 500
Research Project
2010 Catalyst Census: Fortune 500 Women Executive Officers and Top Earners and 2010 Catalyst Census: Fortune 500 Women Board Directors examine women's representation in corporate governance at the largest companies in the United States. This annual report provides critical statistics to gauge women's advancement into leadership and highlights the gender diversity gap.
Each year Catalyst tracks:
- Companies with 0 percent, 25 percent or more, and 40 percent or more women Executive Officers.
- Women's share of all Executive Officer and top earner positions.
- Women's share of all board seats and of positions of board leadership.
- The representation of women of color directors.
- Companies with 0 percent, 25 percent or more, and 40 percent or more women directors.
- Companies with zero to three or more women of color directors.
The appendices provide additional points of comparison by region and industry, as well as list companies with the highest and lowest representation of women Executive Officers and women board directors.
Sponsor: Ernst & Young
Centers: Equity in Business Leadership
Date: December 6, 2010


text:
Hi. I'm Rachel. Let's get acquainted. I'll start…
I'VE GOT certified life coaching know-how thanks to The Coaches Training Institute (CPCC to be exact). A Masters degree in Holistic Health Education from John F. Kennedy University. A glorious gap between my front teeth.
I'VE HOSTED transformative retreats in cities all across the country which have garnered rave reviews. I continue to lead gatherings that provide a sanctuary for women to discover what it means to live a well-fed life.
I RAN for 4th grade class secretary. My campaign slogan? "Reach Your Goal with Rachel Cole." I heart foreshadowing.
IN A FORMER LIFE I teamed up with some of the most delicious people. Helped launch and run 18 Reasons—a trailblazing epicenter of community and food. Honed my quinoa skills with cookery goddess Heidi Swanson. Curated programs for the Center for Urban Education on Sustainable Agriculture. In the end, though, I found I cared a whole lot more about feeding our deeper hungers than I did about organic kale.
I'VE SAT CROSS-LEGGED at Tassajara Zen Center, Spirit Rock Meditation Center, with the joyful James Baraz, and while being schooled in the mindful ways of Jon Kabat-Zinn. I'm not a full fledged Buddhist, but I've learned a lot from some of the best.
I'M TRULY FORTUNATE I beat my eating disorder. And I'm way wiser, so much deeper, and insanely more compassionate for it.
I AM an INFJ, Leo (Scorpio moon, Scorpio rising). Sagacious beyond my years (so I've been told). An instigator of ease. And full of love for you.
I WANT to know: what are YOU truly hungry for?


text: Women's XC/Track 5/9/2014 12:00:00 AM Georgetown Track & Field Set for BIG EAST Outdoor Championships May 9, 2014VILLANOVA, Pa. - The Georgetown University track & field team left campus this morning and took the nearly three-hour bus ride up I-95 to arrive in Villanova, Pa., for the 2014 BIG EAST Outdoor Track & Field Championships. The Hoyas will compete in the two-day championship scheduled for Saturday, May 10 and Sunday, May 11 at the Jumbo Elliott Track at Villanova Stadium.The Hoyas will look to a roster that is deep with seasoned talent as they enter the championship portion of the season. Both the men's and women's teams will look to score a lot of the points in classic Georgetown events such as the middle distance 800- and 1,500-meter runs, but the talent from top to bottom puts the Hoyas in good position to score well from the 100-meter dash through the 10,000-meter run.Women's Preview The women's 1,500-meter run will be just a final event with no preliminary. The 14-person field features five members of the Blue & Gray including All-American Rachel Schneider (Dover, N.H./St. Thomas Aquinas), who owns the top time in the BIG EAST Conference coming in to the championship. Breakout performer of the season, All-American Andrea Keklak (Sudbury, Mass./Lincoln-Sudbury/Princeton), will also be in the mix and one to look out for as she has shown a fierce competitive spirit throughout the year.All-American Amanda Kimbers (Baltimore, Md./McDonogh), who won her first BIG EAST individual title during the 2014 indoor season, is doubling up this year with the women's 100- and 200-meter dashes. She has run the fastest times in the conference in both events leading up to the two-day meet.The women's 400-meter hurdles features All-American Deseree King (Oxon Hill, Md./Oxon Hill), who comes in to the meet with the second-fastest time in the league. The senior, who is defending her 2013 title, looks to add another piece of hardware to the mantle in her last outdoor conference championship.Taylor Doaty (Pittsburgh, Pa./Oakland Catholic) and Diana Sainvil (Harksdale, N.Y./Woodlands) come in to the championships with the third- and fourth-fastest 100-meter hurdle times in the league. Competing in separate heats in the prelim, both will look to not only make the championship but score significant points for the Blue & Gray.Georgetown will rely on sheer numbers in the women's 800-meter run with five Hoyas competing in the three-heat prelim. GU will look to stack the final with as many Hoyas as possible including 2013 champion - All-American Chelsea Cox (Manahawkin, N.J./Southern Regional).The distance events will see familiar veterans Kirsten Kasper (Andover, Mass./North Andover) and Joanna Stevens (Blacksburg, Va./Blacksburg) paired with younger competitors such as Haley Pierce (Wilmington, Del./Tatnall School) and Samantha Nadel (Glen Head, N.Y./North Shore) to make significant strides in the women's 5,000- and 10,000-meter runs.Two-sport athlete Faith Woodard (Brandon, Fla./Freedom), competing in her first track conference championship, comes in to the women's high jump with the third-fastest time.Men's Preview The men's team, dubbed "Steeple U", will look to the men's steeplechase finals on Saturday night to pick up a lot of points. Of the 11 entrants, four Hoyas are featured and subsequently own the top four times in the conference with Darren Fahy (Carlsbad, Calif./La Costa Canyon) running the fastest time in the conference to date followed by Matt Howard (Blacksburg, Va./Blacksburg), All-American Dylan Sorensen (Zionsville, Ind./Zionsville) and All-American Max Darrah (South Yarmouth, Mass./Dennis Yarmouth Regional).Reigning 5,000- and 10,000-meter champion All-American Andrew Springer (Westerly, R.I./Westerly), will look to defend his titles in both events this weekend as the Hoyas put together solid lineups in the distance events, featuring the likes of Brian King (Sonoma, Calif./Cardinal Newman) as well as Fahy and Sorensen in the 5,000m, in an effort to pile on the points.The men's 800-meter run field is a three-heat prelim that boasts five Hoyas in the 24-person field. Georgetown's Billy Ledder (Washington, D.C./Gonzaga), an All-American, comes in to the meet with the fastest time in the conference while All-Americans Ahmed Bile (Annandale, Va./Annandale) and Cole Williams (San Francisco, Calif./Occidental College) have the fifth- and eighth-fastest times, respectively.Hansel Akers (Landisville, Pa./Hempfield) is competing in his final BIG EAST Championships and is having his best season to date. The senior will compete in the 400-meter hurdles, a finals event with no prelim rounds, and is the runner to beat as he has recorded the fastest time in the conference to date.The sprinters will rely on Tyler Smith (Jeffersonville, Pa./Norristown), who is close to home for the second time in three weeks, and Mike Andre (Ocean, N.J./Ocean Township) in the 100- and 200-meter dashes. The duo both come in to the championship weekend with top-eight times in the two events.Eghosa Aghayere (Henrietta, N.Y./Rush Henrietta Sperry) has the best mark in the league in the men's triple jump and will look to make a podium appearance. The senior is also entered in the men's long jump along with teammates Richard D'Ambrosio (Collegeville, Pa./Malvern Prep) and Kenneth Armstrong (San Dimas, Calif./Damien) who enter the event with the sixth- and seventh-best marks in the league.Georgetown will look to sheer numbers again in the finals of the 1,500-meter run. With no preliminary rounds, the five Hoyas in the 15-team field will have the opportunity to make it a fast final on fresh legs.Print Friendly Version Players Mentioned Kenneth Armstrong Sprints / Jumps Sophomore Cole Williams Middle Distance Junior Eghosa Aghayere Jumps Junior Hansel Akers Sprints Junior Mike Andre Sprints Freshman Ahmed Bile Middle Distance Freshman Richard D'Ambrosio Jumps / Hurdles / Multi Sophomore Max Darrah Middle Distance Junior Darren Fahy Distance Freshman Matt Howard Distance Junior


text:
Monday, 24 May 2010
Strolling through literary fiction, galloping through commercial fiction
Now, in the report on my novel I was told I used too much narrative so I set out to splash it with dialogue, but there came a moment where the dialogue was flooding the pages and I was loosing my voice. I like narrative, I know too much makes it boring -I often skip it in books when there's too much-, but a balanced amount helps the reader visualize the scene and actions in detail and immerse oneself in the plot.
My point is, I think there is a tendency to include more dialogue to the detriment of narrative, but then literary fiction enjoys greater prestige among literary critics so, in theory, this is what we should be aiming at if we want to become "proper writers". Here I'm being sarcastic because I don't believe literary is better than commercial, just different styles for different tastes and different storylines.
I believe our voice will determine the right balance between dialogue and narrative but it will also depend on the genre we're writing and the audience we're targeting.
Do you find narrative makes books too slow and tedious? And do you feel the pace of books with barely any descriptions is too fast?
15 comments:
- Anonymous24 May 2010 at 11:26
I read both commercial and literary fiction. I have been known skip the boring descriptions, but that's usually if I feel it's not relevant to the story. But then, if I've come out of the story world enough to be able to skim bits, something's gone wrong somewhere. I like dialogue. It's fast paced and tells you a lot about the characters.ReplyDelete
As a writer, I tend to write lots of dialogue with just enough description to convey the time/place/mood etc. Unfortunately, this makes my books a bit on the short side...
Jeev, I tend to jump descriptions when the plot is so intriguing I just want to know what happens, or when I'm finding the book boring and just want to get to the interesting part.ReplyDelete
My books are on the short side too, it's just so difficult to get it right, isn't it!
The story is my main interest.ReplyDelete
I don't mind whether the story is conveyed primarily through dialogue or through narrative - although I generally prefer a balance between the two - if the story doesn't grip me, I stop reading.
Liz X
Let's face it, literary fiction doesn't get the readership commercial fiction does, and I'd rather be read than not read. My books can be overloaded with dialogue (comes of being an ex-actress), but I try and put the odd bit of description in, too! But, as I used to say to my students, Thomas Hardy wouldn't be published today - all those pages of description at the beginning! And Anna Karenina - Well! But it's all to do with readers. These days, we live in a sound-bite society, and readers are used to instant gratification; straight into the story and no messing. That's why the popular soaps have 30 second scenes.ReplyDelete
Liz, as you, if the plot grips me, I'll go through any amount of narrative, but I'll probably take twice as long to read it.ReplyDelete
Lesley, I like your thoughts on Hardy and Karenina. I often wonder about that too.
I think also dialogue brings you closer to the characters, and we tend to be more interested in the people than their surroundings, but I still like the odd paragraph of description to imagine the scenery.
This is interesting. I find dialogue 'easy' so I tend to put a lot in. However on a recent critique, I was told it read rather like a script and that I should add more narrative! It is about getting that balance.ReplyDelete
I found your blog through Anita Burgh btw.
warm wishes
Debbie, maybe we should exchange manuscripts, I'll fill in yours with narrative and you can fill in mine with dialogue!!ReplyDelete
I love Anita Burgh's blog, she's a great help to "yet-to-be-published" writers.
I like dialogue, probably because it's quick to read and I'm more of scanning kind of reader. But I wouldn't want a book without some narrative - I think the right mix is critical. I tend to write too much narrative, then I end up chopping it and rewriting it as dialogue.ReplyDelete
- Anonymous24 May 2010 at 21:29
I prefer literary fiction over commercial, but it's not really because of the pace; it's just that a lot of faster-paced novels focus more on plot rather than character, and I rarely read anything that does not have a balance between the two. I want a good story AND multi-dimensional characters that I can get invested in. I don't always have the time or energy to read, so I have to be selective. ;]ReplyDelete
Amanda, I think you can find multi-dimensional characters in commercial fiction. I think you get to know them through their dialogues and they're usually well described physically too.ReplyDelete
By the way, I tried to leave a comment on your last post but the comment box doesn't show up.
I am a fan of dialogue, though I struggle with it in my own writing I do enjoy reading it, it helps move the story along better for me. I think it all comes down to voice though for me, if the voice is good it doesn't matter what the book is filled with, the writer will keep me wanting more.ReplyDelete
I love your blog! I found you over at Talli Rolands and thought I would drop in and say hello! So HI!
Hi Jen,ReplyDelete
Glad to see you here, and I love Talli R's blog.
I have to alternate between literary and commercial. I like both -if I like the plot, of course- but I try to switch from one style to the other or I get a bit tired of it.
Curioso... sabes que soy una lectora empedernida que lee absolutamente todo lo que cae en sus manos. Nunca he dejado un libro a medias. Nunca me he saltado partes de ningún libro. Debo de ser más rara que un ciervo en la luna!!!!ReplyDelete
A mi me gustan más los libros con más narrativa que diálogo... será porque me gusta leer!
- Anonymous27 May 2010 at 01:09
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.ReplyDelete
- Anonymous27 May 2010 at 01:57
The problem has been rectified! I think.ReplyDelete
And I know there's a lot of good commercial fiction out there. I'm just picky. So long as the dialogue is well-written and not stale, the insight into the characters can definitely be powerful.


text:
It's been only five years since Justin Bieber first started uploading videos onto YouTube. In that time, his videos have amassed millions of views, and countless fans around the world. But as impressive as those numbers are, like so many Canadian acts before him (Nickelback, Celine Dion) the number of Justin's haters almost rivals his legion of his fans.
While I never particularly disliked Justin Bieber, I am neither a fan of his music (which is fine; it's not meant for me). Many people, myself included, dismissed him as a one-hit wonder, but surprisingly Justin has proven to be anything but. On top of showing that he's capable of releasing albums that continue to sell big, I've noticed lately that this 17-year-old continues to use his mega-power for the greater good.
He's more charitable than you:
The Justin Bieber seal of approval is now worth millions, and while he is the spokesman for big companies like Proactiv and G-Star Raw, he also devotes much of his pull to helping those less fortunate, particularly here in Canada. Recently, a series of his tweets about the importance of organ donations in Ontario saw the number of people who signed up to donate for the Trillium Gift of Life Network nearly quadruple. He also recently signed a car that was then auctioned off for $40,000 -- funds that will go to restore a skate park in his hometown.
This past Valentine's Day, instead of spending the day with his movie star girlfriend, Selena Gomez, Justin spent it with a six-year-old fan who is battling cancer. It was a selfless gesture that Avalanna Routh and other fans will never forget. In a world of publicist-enforced staged appearances, Justin seems to devote as much time to giving back to his fans and charitable organizations as he does to driving his luxury cars.
He loves Canadian music more than you:
For a few years, former Canadian Idol contestant Carly Rae Jepsen has been making the best of being a singer-songwriter. She has a small (but loyal) fan base. She has one full album under her belt, a Juno nomination, and a few bumps on the music charts. All of that was before Justin Bieber got hold of her.
While visiting his family over the Christmas break, he heard her single "Call Me Maybe" and tweeted that it was the "catchiest song ever." With that single tweet, he likely changed Carly Rae Jepsen's life. Within a matter of days, the single was topping the iTunes singles chart, where it remained for weeks, only to be dethroned by the one and only Madonna. So far, "Call Me Maybe" has gone double-platinum and, fittingly, it's the first song by a Canadian artist to reach the top of the Nielsen SoundScan Digital Tracks chart since Justin Bieber's "Baby" in January 2010. (And only the eleventh song by a Canadian artist ever to do so.)
And that was before the biggest news of all: last week, Justin Bieber announced that Carly Rae had been signed to Scooter Braun's label -- the very label that helped turn Justin into a worldwide superstar. News that Bieber had welcomed to Jepsen into the fold, or family if you will, took the Internet by storm. She quickly picked up more than 120,000 new Twitter followers, propelling her single to double-platinum sales and garnering millions of views for her "Call Me Maybe" video. A remake of the video that features Justin Bieber, Selena Gomez, Ashley Tisdale and a slew of other young celebrities has already picked up more than 5.8 million views.
He's keeping young girls out of trouble more than you:
I can't imagine anything more terrifying than having a "tween" for a daughter right now. Technology has made keeping track of what they are up to practically impossible. That said, if my kid was spending hours tweeting about Justin Bieber, reading blogs about his latest haircut and talking to fellow fans all around the world about his latest album, I think I'd be OK with it. It's better than having them wandering the streets and getting into trouble with boys who aren't pop stars.
And something else I've noticed is that Justin actually writes his fans back, likely making them feel pretty darn good about themselves. If I know anything about teenagers nowadays, it's that they need attention -- even if it is from the superstar musician they'll never meet.
Even more encouraging is the fact that when girls do get a tweet from Justin, his other fans are unabashedly positive about it, congratulating the lucky recipient of the personal tweet from their idol. Imagine that: girls being supportive of each other. The women of The Bachelor could learn a lot from these tweens.
Living in a time when we've lost Whitney Houston, Amy Winehouse and Michael Jackson to probable substance abuse, it's refreshing to have our kids worshiping someone who is worthy of their praise and, yes, money. As someone who lives in constant fear of teenagers, I'm in awe of the fact that the boy from Stratford, Ont. has turned out to be one of the most well-adjusted kids out there. Regardless of what you think of his songs, you have to admit, we could all be a little more like Justin Bieber.
Mike Morrison writes daily at Mike's Bloggity Blog, a site devoted to Canadian entertainment. Look for his bald head on Twitter or just go to @mikesbloggity.


text:
How to say: correct behaviour; become good again.
Say one did something wrong in the past. Now he realizes it is wrong and learns from the mistake. ""He will correct his behaviour"" and ""become good again."" <-- What is the common expression in written AND spoken English?
[as many common options as possible]
My idea is:
Written (formal):
I will mend my way
start life again with a clean slate/sheet
{no idea}


text:
For cancellation & refund requests, use this form.
For invoice requests, use this form. Note that your e-ticket receipt can also be used as proof of payment, for fiscal and legal purposes. VAT Exemption following Art 41 §1 1°
Do you have a group booking? Log in with your "My Profile" or "Loop" account" profile to see your booking.
For special assistance or in case you experience an issue retrieving your booking, please contact our Service Centre
Earn and redeem miles with our many partners and enter a world of exclusive advantages.
Earn points, on your own or with your family, and travel sooner than expected throughout Europe.
You can conveniently check the status of any Brussels Airlines-operated flight to/from Brussels.
All departure and arrival times are in local times.
You can search by:
Visit as well our dedicated B2B platform for companies and travel agencies and discover our special conditions for schools.
A group booking is limited to maximum 40 passengers, please adapt the number of passengers and try again.
See schedule
Check all airport details, including lounge, ticketing office & transport info.
Culture, history and tasty fish soup: Marseille can offer any tourist a pleasant stay in France's most important port.
Marseille is the second biggest city in France, and has a large number of sights. You can get a sample by visiting the Cathédrale de la Major, the Notre Dame de la Garde , the Basilique Saint-Victor, the Palails Longchamp and the Château d'If, a castle situated on an island that used to be a prison.
The old harbour, built by the Greeks, is now a marina and fishing port. It has a large number of fish restaurants where you can try the local fish soup, better known as bouillabaisse. There is also the Hôtel de Ville, the former town hall that was built in the 17th century. The entrance to the old port is still protected by two forts, which have survived from the past. The most interesting street in Marseilles is Canebière, a lively street with a large number of cafés and restaurants.
One of the most popular day trips to do near Marseille is an excursion to the splendid calanques of Cassis, which are spectacular rocky inlets and are also called the Mediterranean fjords. If you prefer to remain close to the city, you can walk along the Corniche, where you will find some popular beaches such as Le Prophète, Le Prado or Les Catalans.


text:
What would it take to change the world? Rotary's 1.2 million members believe it starts with a commitment to Service Above Self.
In more than 34,000 clubs worldwide, you'll find members volunteering in communities at home and abroad to support education and job training, provide clean water, combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, and eradicate polio.
Rotary clubs are open to people of all cultures and ethnicities and are not affiliated with any political or religious organizations.
Latest news Marathon Event 2019
Program Reykjavik Marathon is online
|Site notice - E-Mail - © 2008 International Marathon Fellowship of Rotarians