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Planning a pregnancy?
For the sake of your future child, don't smoke. Be wary of alcohol. Eat for three: yourself, your unborn baby, and your spouse.
And try to get your wife to follow the same healthy lifestyle. While humanity has long known that toxicants can undermine male fertility, common thinking was that the postconception health of the fetus was solely the province of the mother. It turns out that the health habits of both parents can affect the odds not only for conception but for miscarriage, birth defects, and childhood cancer. New research confirms that potential medical problems for offspring can ride sperm from the father all the way into the egg.
In fact, findings suggest that men who wish one day to sire healthy offspring should start thinking more like a savvy pregnant woman. Though the pregnancy-related warnings on wine labels and cigarette packs target women only, healthy pregnancies involve the teamwork of a relay race, and before conception the future father has a turn carrying the baton.
The Taboo Question
A 29-year-old Boston woman (some identifying characteristics and information about this couple have been changed) couldn't understand why she had suffered two miscarriages. Her gynecologist had run a battery of tests and found nothing wrong with her. That's when she began to consider a question women rarely ask: Is it possible my husband can't have healthy children?
Her husband, 40, didn't want to come to the office of Marc Goldstein, M.D., professor of urology and the director of the Center for Male Reproductive Medicine and Microsurgery at the New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center, and was angry when they arrived. And when Dr. Goldstein offered a possible solution to the mystery of her miscarriages, he says, "she was angry at her husband and he was angry at me."
The husband was a construction worker and routinely involved in the demolition of old buildings that had lead pipe or lead-based paint. "That was a possible clue," says Dr. Goldstein. A man's exposure to lead has been associated with his partner's miscarriages. "He was also a heavy drinker -- a six-pack every night," Dr. Goldstein says. Clue two: Animal studies raise questions, still largely unanswered in humans, about the longest and most painful kind of hangover: damage to the fetus caused by a father-to-be's excessive alcohol consumption. And the man had smoked two packs a day for 25 years, since he was 15, a third hint of danger. Recent studies with human subjects suggest that male smoking can harm sperm, causing miscarriage and passing on a slight but significant legacy of cancer to offspring, even if the mother doesn't smoke.
But what evidence was there that the man's bad health habits had caused these particular pregnancy failures? It was circumstantial but compelling, and "something he had never told his wife before," Dr. Goldstein says. "His previous wife had miscarried twice." If there was something wrong with her, the problem seemed to disappear after their divorce. "When his first wife got married again," Dr. Goldstein says, "she went on to have healthy children with her next husband."
Miscarriages happen to at least one of every five pregnant women. In some cases, these "spontaneous abortions" are nature's way of ending a pregnancy likely to lead to a baby born with serious malformations. They can also be a sign that the mother's womb is inhospitable to fetal growth. In the case of the Boston woman, doctors had already ruled out typical causes. So Dr. Goldstein narrowed in on how her husband might have triggered the pregnancy problems.
Tests of the man's blood revealed lead levels within a normal range, so that didn't appear to be the culprit. But when the man's sperm were examined under a microscope, they were clearly misshapen. Some had two tails. Some had irregularly shaped heads. Research shows that smoking and drinking alcohol both can distort sperm's form. And abnormally shaped sperm is associated with a higher than average incidence of miscarriage.
Drugs and alcohol aren't the only cause of abnormal sperm shapes. Varicocele, for example, a painless swelling in the scrotum from varicose (enlarged) veins, can lead to a distinctive narrowing of the sperm. In itself, varicocele isn't a serious disorder. But it can contribute to infertility and, experts say, the narrowing can be associated in some cases with miscarriage -- most likely if the man uses drugs or smokes cigarettes. That means a man with varicocele who drinks to excess or smokes increases the risk of disrupting his wife's pregnancy.
"It's true that misshapen sperm are less likely to succeed in fertilizing an egg," Dr. Goldstein acknowledges. "But if they do, the fetus is more likely to have problems and the odds of miscarriage go up." His prescription to his alcoholic and cigarette-puffing patient was a strong suggestion that he join Alcoholics Anonymous to help curtail his drinking and buy a nicotine patch to assist in weaning him of his cigarette addiction.
"He quit smoking and got into AA," Dr. Goldstein says. Six months later, the couple hadn't yet conceived. But the shape of the sperm had significantly improved -- they had a classic bulbous head and long, thin tail -- increasing the odds that his better health might spawn a successful pregnancy. And eventually it did: A few months after that, the woman became pregnant, and last May the couple became the proud parents of a healthy baby.
"All the eggs a woman will ever have are created when she is a fetus inside her mother," says Bruce Ames, Ph.D., professor of biochemistry and molecular biology at the University of California, Berkeley. Sperm cells, by contrast, are produced continuously through cell division all during a man's adult life. At every cell division, the sperm are at risk of mutation -- a small change that can mean a big problem for the man's children. That's why, Ames argues, "fathers ultimately contribute more to the risk of gene mutations than mothers."
So where does that leave a concerned dad-to-be? Doctors suggest three strategies for producing safer and healthier sperm:
Quit Smoking
And do so as long before conception as possible. Perhaps years before. That's the conclusion of a new study that solves what has for years been a major puzzle about smoking and pregnancy: In a family where both parents smoke, how can doctors say which parent contributed to any medical problems in their children? Although further studies need to be done, the research by Bu-Tian Ji, M.D., who is also a Ph.D. candidate at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), suggests that men ought to quit smoking to protect their children from childhood cancer.
Dr. Ji went back home to his native China for his research because many more Chinese men smoke than women. "The smoking rate in Shanghai is about 60 percent among men," Dr. Ji says. "But traditionally, Chinese women don't smoke or drink." That means Dr. Ji and other researchers could easily zero in on large numbers of families where the dad smokes and mom doesn't.
Dr. Ji and his team of scientists studied 642 cases of cancer in Chinese children under the age of 15. At the same time they looked at another similar group with no cancer history, for comparison. They then confirmed the smoking histories of both parents to isolate what happens to the next generation when it's the man who uses tobacco.
What they found: Fathers who had smoked cigarettes at any point in their lives were 30 percent more likely to have a child with cancer than dads who had never smoked. "The length of time they smoked turned out to be more important than how many cigarettes they lit up per day," Dr. Ji says.
Dr. Ji's not sure why a man's past smoking habit seems to put his child at greater risk. "Even though sperm are made fresh in a man's body, we think maybe the environment in the reproductive system can continue to damage the sperm, or not protect it," he says. "But we don't yet have proof that this is what happens."
He acknowledges that his study doesn't exclude the possibility that the increase in childhood cancer is caused by secondhand smoke, inhaled by mothers-in-waiting. But other studies, of mothers who smoke, find no effect on the rate of cancer in their kids. That suggests that sperm, not secondhand smoke, could be the culprit. Another 1997 study, in England, backs up Dr. Ji's major finding. It links a father's smoking habit -- but not a mother's -- to an increased risk of cancer death among children in the U.K.
Dr. Ji looked only at the effects on childhood cancer, diagnosed annually in about 14 of every 100,000 U.S. children under age 15. Several other studies dating back to the 1960s reveal that fetuses and newborns are more likely to struggle for their lives if their fathers smoke. One showed that the overall death rate among infants of fathers who puff cigarettes was about 45 percent higher than the toll for babies sired by nonsmoking fathers. In addition, almost all studies of fathers who smoke find a greater incidence of birth defects in their children than in the offspring of fathers who don't light up.
More research is needed before anyone can be sure of the cancer connection and the overall risk of genetic damage to the next generation. Still, Dr. Ji's advice to men is not to wait until all the results are in. Stop smoking as long as possible before conception, he says. "I believe that it's best to quit at least five years before."
Eat As Though You Were Pregnant
If expectant mothers eat for two, their husbands ought to eat for three before conception: themselves, their partners, and their children-to-be. So it appears to Bruce Ames, who investigated the reproductive health of volunteers in a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) study of low-vitamin diets.
"The USDA has a human nutrition lab where they observe volunteers eating a specific diet for four months at a time," he says. So he asked if he could study some sperm from a group of men on a regimen low in vitamin C. They were getting about ten milligrams a day, one-sixth of the current recommended allowance.
It was already known that vitamin C appears to be important to male reproductive health. "There's about eight times as much of it in seminal fluid, the river in which sperm ride, as there is in blood plasma," Ames says, suggesting that C plays some central role in promoting conception.
When he got the sperm samples, Ames found that the sperm from the C-deprived volunteers was two and a half times as likely to be damaged as that from men who got enough of the vitamin. So vitamin C in the male reproductive system appears to play the role of palace guard.
Against what? Ames theorizes that the threat to sperm comes from toxins called free radicals, which are produced in the body. Cigarette smoke, radiation, exhaust fumes, and even excessive sunlight accelerate their production.
The body can repel the free radical assault with a diet high in antioxidants such as vitamins C and E. If you don't get enough of the protective vitamins, Ames says, "you wind up with injuries to the chromosomes in the sperm cells." The result is like randomly rewriting portions of the sperm's instructions for making a new life. While most of the damaged cells are repaired naturally by the body, some injuries result in a mutation when a cell divides. "And that may lead to trouble in the next generation," Ames argues. Susan Kleiner, Ph.D., a nutrition consultant in Seattle agrees, at least in theory. "We know that sperm can carry genetic mutations to the egg," she says. "So why couldn't sperm damaged from poor diet or tobacco also carry mutations?"
Kleiner recommends that would-be fathers pay more attention to nutrition, and specifically:
- Eat at least three to five servings of vegetables and two to four servings of fruit every day to get enough vitamin C and beta-carotene, both antioxidants.
- Increase consumption of seeds, nuts, and wheat germ to get enough of a third free radical fighter, vitamin E.
- Toss in green vegetables like broccoli, collard greens, kale, romaine lettuce, and Swiss chard -- all great sources of folic acid, which Kleiner says might be as important to men as women for healthy conception. If this turns you off, eat more dried beans, peas, peanuts, sunflower seeds, whole grains, and oranges, other foods yielding folic acid as well as a healthy variety of nutrients and fiber.
- Consider taking a multivitamin if your diet is low on these foods. But choose a moderate dose over mega-vitamin therapy.
Drink Moderately
Since 1989, labels on beer and other alcoholic beverages have warned pregnant women of risks to the fetus posed by drinking. Research suggests that men who are contemplating fatherhood ought to precede their partners into sobriety.
In a series of experiments by Theodore Cicero, Ph.D., professor of neuropharmacology at the Washington University School of Medicine, in St. Louis, young rats got high doses of alcohol early in their lives. Then they were put on an alcohol-free regimen for two to three weeks and bred with females. The rat mothers had modestly smaller litters, but the birth weights of the offspring were normal. The early binging by male rats at first seemed to have no discernable effect on their babies' physical well being.
But when Cicero looked into how these young rats developed, he found "subtle differences" compared with alcohol-free rats. "Male alcohol-sired offspring had significantly lower levels of testosterone," Cicero says. They did badly on several tests requiring them to learn to navigate mazes. And females born of the once-inebriated animals had abnormal levels of stress hormones. The results, Cicero says, are "highly consistent" with observations of human kids with alcoholic fathers. In general, the children are "not grossly malformed or impaired, but have some pronounced selective intellectual and functional deficits." The news in his work is that a man's early exposure to alcohol may later affect his children, even if he quit drinking before conception.
No one knows exactly what significance the rat research has for human fathers. "Such studies are like sentinels," says Ernest Abel, Ph.D., a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Wayne State University. "They give you a suggestion that, at the human level, something needs to be looked at, and we should not ignore it. But these are not definitive in any way." Taken all together, though, this and other alcohol studies support some common sense: Think twice before you belly up to the bar and order a double while trying to conceive.
We can't ensure that our children will inherit our best personality traits, hair color, or smile. But men can probably do a lot, long before they even become fathers, to make sure their kids aren't put at risk by their own youthful excesses.
Gurney Williams III writes and lectures frequently on health and science issues.


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Feb. 1, 2007
Babson College Sports Information
BABSON PARK, Mass. - The Babson College women's basketball team completed a regular season sweep of visiting MIT with a 58-41 win in a New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) contest on Wednesday night. With the victory, the Beavers improved to 10-9 overall and 6-2 in the conference, while the Engineers slipped to 3-15 overall and 0-8 in the NEWMAC.
Caitlin Boulier led all players with 18 points, as she shot 7-for-12 from the field, including a 4-for-8 clip from three-point range. Suzy Ward added 11 points and six rebounds, and Colleen Burke tossed in eight points and collected a team-high nine boards.
Clara Yuan paced MIT with 11 points and seven rebounds, while Christa Margossian grabbed a game-high 14 rebounds for the Engineers.
MIT stayed close throughout the first half, and then trailed by only one (30-29) less than a minute into the second half. However, Babson pulled away with a 13-1 run over the next six minutes, highlighted by back-to-back threes by Boulier. The Engineers would get no closer than 10 points the rest of the way as the Beavers clinched the victory.

subset: commoncrawl


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8:00 pm
Pacific Heartbeat "Let's Play Music! Slack Key with Cyril Pahinui and Friends" In this intimate backyard performance, master slack key musician Cyril Pahinui (featured in last season's "Waimea 'Ukulele and Slack Key Guitar") jams with some of the most talented musicians in Hawaii. The Oscar-winning film The Descendantsprominently featured the music of Cyril's father, Gabby "Pop" Pahinui, considered the "Godfather" of Hawaiian slack key guitar. D
9:00 pm
Globe Trekker "Around The World - Silk Road: Kashgar to Istanbul" Holly Morris picks up the journey in Central Asia. She crosses the Jiptik Pass to Osh, and explores the Kingdom of Samarkand and Bukhara. She travels the desert of Turkmenistan to the lost city of Merv and heads to the modern capital of Baku in Azerbaijan. Her trek ends in the rich bazaars of Istanbul.G
10:00 pm
Outdoor Idaho "Rec Tech" Whether producing custom jet boats, some of the world's best-known knives, high-end fly fishing reels or calorie-packed and great-tasting energy bars, the people leading Idaho's recreation technology companies share one characteristic: They love Idaho's great outdoors. This episode features the adventurous men and women behind these innovations.G
10:30 pm
Dialogue "Samuel Hunter" Host Marcia Franklin talks with Moscow native playwright Samuel Hunter about his works and the influence of Idaho in his plays. Hunter, who was in Boise recently to help direct one of his plays, is the recipient of a 2011 Obie Award, the equivalent of a Tony Award for off-Broadway productions, for his play A Bright New Boise.G
11:00 pm
Oregon Field Guide "Dam Removal, Fort Stevens Underground, Wagon Maker" On the Sandy River, scientists study how dam removal would impact the river's ecosystem. An 87-year-old grows his own trees for the wood he uses to build traditional horse-drawn wagons.G
11:30 pm
Travelscope "Guatemala - The Maya of the Western Highlands" Joseph visits the ancient Spanish colonial capital of Antigua before climbing volcanoes and heading into Guatemala's Mayan highland villages for hard bargaining in the local markets, a leisurely visit to a coffee plantation and a weaving lesson on a traditional back-strap loom. D


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Polaroid: Film & Digital Fun
We like many others mourned the loss of Polaroid classic instant film (our Impossible Project stash is gone). The 600 instant film is something we love to use in our vintage Polaroid cameras and is truly iconic. When we spotted the large Polaroid booth at CES, we could not help but be curious about what they were up to in 2011.
Of course with all of the commotion around the new Creative Director at Polaroid, Lady Gaga, and our love for our classic Land camera, we made the Grey Label area our first destination at the Polaroid booth. The Grey Label is made up of three items, the GL10 Instant Mobile Printer, GL30 Instant Digital Camera and the GL20 Camera Glasses. We loved the look of the GL10 and GL30, but were not terribly impressed by the GL20. The GL20 camera glasses did not look like anything we would wear and pretty much fell into the category of items that live in a drawer somewhere after their first 48 hours home. The price has not yet been announced for the GL20 glasses and they will be available later this year.
The GL10 instant printer was set up with ZINK 3X4″ paper and was connected to a smartphone at the display. ZINK Paper is an advanced composite material with cyan, yellow, and magenta dye crystals embedded inside. Before printing, the embedded dye crystals are clear, so ZINK Paper, looks like regular white photo paper. The GL10 uses heat to activate and colorize these crystals. We tested the printer by snapping a photo of our iPad case. We did not enjoy using the smartphone to take the image as it was a bit cumbersome. It was very difficult to get the smartphone to understand the correct orientation of the photo, which made it difficult to get the print we desired. It was impossible to re-position which area of the photo we wanted to use in the print or even to rotate the image. We're not sure if this was a problem with the phone, or the printing software. Either way, after several frustrating attempts, we gave up and settled on an image to print.
The resulting print out of the GL10 was the same shape that we know and love, but did not feel anything like it. The print felt thin, cheap, and flimsy. While it had the classic Polaroid border and was treated to look like the 600 instant print, it really was kind of a sad facsimile. The image had no depth, and the colors looked overly bright in some parts and washed out in others, it reminded us of early digital prints from the dawn of at home digital printing. The smartphone can be blamed for some of this, but we also think this is also due to the printer. While we liked the design of the GL10, we were not very happy with its prints and it just made us miss the classic 600 instant film all that much more. The GL10 will be available in May 2011 for $149.99 MSRP. The ZINK 3×4″ Paper will be available in May 2011 at a price to be announced.
The classic looks of the GL30 camera with its built in printer are sure to capture the heart of many a Polaroid lover. Sadly, we could not play with this model, so we cannot make any comments on its ease of use or print quality. However, If the quality of the prints is anything like the GL10, film cannot make a return soon enough. The concept behind the GL30 is fun, a digital camera with a built in printer, and we think that it will be an attractive item to many (especially the tween set) despite its potentially lackluster print quality. The GL30 will be available later this year, and the price is yet to be announced.
What we did have much fun playing with at the Polaroid booth and loved the resulting print, was the PIC 300 Instant Camera. This film camera takes business card sized photos that are just like the classic 3X4″ but smaller. We used the same subject in the print for the PIC 300 as we did in the GL10 and wow, what a difference. The picture from the PIC 300 looks great, and it captures everything that we loved about the prints from our Land camera just at a smaller scale. The PIC 300 sells for $90 and is available in 3 colors. The instant film is available for $10.


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Orthopaedic Conditions
Orthopedic conditions involve the bones or joints and may include fractures, muscle tears or lacerations, joint repair or replacement, and amputations. Often an orthopedic injury will require surgical intervention, with a need for post- surgical rehabilitation. Even when surgery is not required, rehabilitation can be of benefit to the recovery process. Diversicare provides rehabilitation for all the above conditions. Our teams are comprised of an attending physician, nurses and therapists working together to assist each person in reaching their goals.
Physical Therapy is a health care profession that assists people in recovering from injuries or illnesses and focuses on mobility, functional ability, quality of life and movement potential. Services address gait training, bed mobility, wound care, restraint reduction and wheelchair positioning.
Occupational Therapy is a health care profession that helps people of all ages participate in the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of everyday activities.
Occupational therapy services may include comprehensive evaluations of the home, recommendations for the use of adaptive equipment to increase independence, and training/ education for caregivers. Functional tasks often addressed include: eating, dressing, housekeeping or grooming.


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Stand out in business with an online MBA degree.
The business world is competitive, especially at the executive level. You need every edge you can get! In just 15 months, you could add an impressive MBA degree to your credentials. With the right online MBA degree, you could advance your career to the managerial or executive level. Companies need well-prepared, qualified leaders.
The online MBA degree program at Independence University is designed to help graduates advance their career. We've developed our online MBA program to provide you with the advanced-level knowledge and skills you need to become an effective business executive.
During this comprehensive online program, you'll learn how to become a competent leader and business manager in a variety of business settings. Our instructors will help you increase your skills in organizational dynamics, corporate finance, statistics, communication, marketing, accounting, and more.
For important gainful employment program information about student debt, earnings, and completion rates click here.
- Business executive
- Finance officer
- Management consultant
- General manager
- Marketing director
- Financial analyst
- Sales director
- Self-employed business owner
- Organization dynamics
- Business leadership
- Accounting, finance, and statistics
- Professional communication
- General management
- Business strategies
- International management
- Information technology
- Human resource management
- Economic analysis
- Kenneth A. Wyka
Ken Wyka received his BS and MS degrees from Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, NJ. He has been involved in all aspects of the respiratory care spectrum since 1971.
Ken has written three respiratory textbooks: Respiratory Care in Alternate Sites, Foundations of Respiratory Care, and Respiratory Home Care: An Onsite Reference Guide. In addition, he co-wrote seven editions of Egan's Fundamentals of Respiratory Care. He has also written numerous articles and presented many lectures throughout the U.S.
Ken was the respiratory program director at Passaic County Community College, professor and director of respiratory clinical education at the University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey, adjunct professor in the Department of Health Professions at Montclair State University, and director of respiratory therapy and director of staff development at the Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, all in the state of New Jersey. He was also the cardiopulmonary clinical specialist at Anthem Health Services in Queensbury, New York, and is now the director of clinical education in the respiratory therapist program and associate dean at Independence University. Ken is a past president of the New Jersey Society for Respiratory Care and served as a member of the AARC House of Delegates for nine years. Since moving to Lake George, New York, he has been the president of the Northeast Chapter of the New York State Society for Respiratory Care, as well as president and a current fellow of the American Association for Respiratory Care.
- Gil Etheridge
I began my career as an assistant professor and graduate faculty member at State University of New York in Buffalo in the department of Physical Therapy and Exercise Science. I was the director of the Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine Laboratory and program director for the Graduate Athletic Training curriculum. After three years, I moved into private healthcare management, where I worked for over 20 years.
My management positions include over 10 years as a regional vice president for a Fortune 500 healthcare company. While there, I managed over 50 facilities in 10 states. I then moved back into the non-profit, private educational sector as executive director of the American Sports Medicine Institute. There, we educated up to 17 orthopedic surgery fellows yearly in a sports medicine fellowship.
After six years, I moved into surgery center management for both private and physician-owned facilities. I have also managed several wound-healing centers, which included physician practices inside the clinic, I've also done healthcare consulting. My love for teaching has brought me back to Independence University where I teach healthcare administration, health science, health services management, and public health.
- Deborah Nolder
I live in Maysville, Kentucky, with my semi-retired husband, Tim. We are the parents of three daughters and the grandparents of one granddaughter and two grandsons. I have been a nurse for 41 years. I have worked in all sorts of healthcare settings, including home care, public health, obstetrics, emergency department, medical-surgical units, and coronary intensive care. I started in post-secondary education 17 years ago while still working part time as the house supervisor for our local hospital. I have been with Independence University for five years.
I received my associate of science degree in nursing from Maysville Community College. I earned my bachelor's in nursing from the University of Kentucky and my master's in nursing from Northern Kentucky University. I will soon have another master of education degree from the University of Kentucky. I have also been accepted in the doctorate of nursing program at UK with classes starting this fall.
I really don't have a lot of spare time for hobbies, but when I do, I indulge in reading and gardening, and I love to Zumba!
- Wyatt Gage
Hi, everyone! My name is Wyatt Gage, and I am a full-time faculty member here at Independence University. I currently live in Utah with my wife and three children: two boys and one girl. In my spare time, I enjoy being outdoors, four-wheeling, playing soccer, tennis, and golf.
I have a bachelor's degree in radiology and a master's degree in healthcare administration. I finished my master's program entirely online while holding a full-time job and being a full-time dad. I can definitely understand what it's like to be a busy, online student!
I have worked in healthcare for eight years at multiple facilities and in various roles. I enjoy teaching both health sciences and healthcare administration, though my favorite course may be anatomy and physiology. I enjoy being a nerd when it comes to anything healthcare related!
- Nicki Vaughn
I've been working in healthcare for over 35 years in primarily non-clinical roles. I actually had my start in healthcare by working in a small rural hospital emergency department, which is where I became "hooked." My undergraduate degree is in health promotion with a minor in health administration. I've worked as an ER tech, in inpatient billing & admitting, as a PBX operator, phlebotomist, in outpatient billing, pathology, community outreach, new program development, and in blood services marketing management. Now, I'm managing customer service programs in home care. During this time period, I also earned an MBA and an MHA degree. I started teaching adjunct for health promotion and human performance at Weber State University in 1995. I love teaching and enjoy filling my evenings teaching for Independence University.
I live in Farmington, Utah, and have two wonderful, handsome boys and one granddaughter.
I'd like to share my overall philosophy: The quest for education is a lifelong endeavor, one that begins at birth and continues throughout life. Many educational moments happen outside the classroom, and, although they may seem ordinary, they are essential in providing the individual foundation that comprises who you are. You are never too old or too busy to learn.
- Colleen Poitinger
I have been a healthcare administrator for 13 years, building and managing physician practices. Prior to this, I worked for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Ohio for ten years, processing and adjudicating claims and answering telephone inquiries for over 65 subscribers. I am coding certified and worked for four years fitting, coding, and billing for DME (Durable Medical Equipment) products. I am currently teaching online health science courses at both the associate's and bachelor's degree levels. I am also an associate dean at Independence University.
I earned my degrees as an online student from Keiser University while working full-time building and managing physician practices, as well as caring for a home and family. Online learning offers many advantages, including being accessible 24/7, which is a terrific thing when one has to work full-time and has other responsibilities.
Many students are unable to attend class consistently in the on-campus environment due to work, childcare, or transportation issues. The online platform allows us to get around these obstacles and opens more opportunities to us as well. I feel this is very important to the country as a whole, since more and more people are unemployed and need to be retrained in new, rewarding careers. As professionals within a field of study, we are able to not only impart direction, but also mentor the students we are brought together with. As such, I look forward to sharing in your virtual educational journey!
- Leslie Lazarevic
I was born in New Jersey in 1963 but spent the majority of my childhood in New York. I served in the U.S. Army for four years in several overseas tours. I currently reside in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with my husband of 13 years, three dogs, and two cats (I love animals!). I have a lovely daughter and twin granddaughters whom I adore.
I earned a bachelor's degree in social work with a focus on gerontology through Temple University in Philadelphia with a focus was on gerontology. I obtained a master of science degree in criminal justice through Andrew Jackson University in Birmingham, Alabama, and I earned a master's degree and a doctorate (ABD) in business administration with a concentration in criminal justice through Northcentral University in Arizona.
I am currently a contracts coordinator with the city of Philadelphia where I have been employed for over 17 years. With this position, I am able to support services that provide assistance to our young and senior populations. I enjoy spending time with seniors in my community, and I learn so much from them just by listening to their wisdom and experiences. I have been teaching online since 2004. I currently teach SOC400, Sociology of Aging. I see being an instructor as a partnership with a student, one where we both get to learn together.
My hobbies include herbalism, knitting, and sewing, as well as the outdoors. I enjoy video gaming every now and then. I love to laugh. I've been accused of having an extreme sense of humor!
- Mike McAndrew
At Independence University, I teach a lot of different finance courses, as well as some management, accounting, and PRO courses. A few years after receiving my MBA, I was recruited to become the business manager/COO of an investment management firm in Chicago, Illinois. I did some investment analysis work as well as being in charge of the daily operational and administrative areas of the firm. Later, I was a vice president/market manager of a personal investment product at a large Midwest bank. The bank then recruited me to be one of an initial 50 senior investment consultant managers nationwide to work for their new investment advisor subsidiary.
I later moved into a vice president/investment consultant position, earning my license in health and life insurance, as well as variable annuities. A few years later I was recruited away to become a senior vice president of wealth management at a regional bank in northern Illinois with 38 branches.
In 2004, I began teaching in the School of Business of a new online college. I later became the program director of all finance courses for the online division, as well as for their on-ground campuses. In January 2014, I began teaching at Independence University. I've enjoyed working here very much. I have a passion for teaching and feel very blessed to have the opportunities I've had in life. I want to share with others the knowledge and experiences I've had, so others might have some of the same opportunities.
- Valerie Meade
My experience working in the business field includes contract compliance, museum program director, property management, government consulting, real estate sales, event management, retail sales management, and office administration. I also have my own small business on our family farm where I grow truffles.
I have taught at Independence University and Stevens-Henager College for over five years. I have greatly enjoyed working with our amazing students and watching as they fulfill their life ambitions.
Before working at SHC and IU, I arranged large community events at the Natural and Cultural History Museum in Lehi, Utah, and taught English courses in Voronezh, Russia. I have also enjoyed many different retail management and real estate positions throughout my career.
I graduated in the top 10% of my class for my master's degree in public administration (MPA) and was named outstanding student of the year for the UVU Business School in 2006 when I completed my paralegal studies associate's degree. I also have a bachelor's degree in international relations/business.
I love learning in almost any educational environment. In three of my workplaces now I have been given the nickname Hermione Granger from Harry Potter. At IU and SHC I have taught courses in Communication Arts, English Composition, American Civilization, U.S. History since the Civil War, Introduction to Logic, Business Law, Computer Forensics/Cybercrime, Marketing, Event Planning, Organizational Design, Business Practices, Management Principles, and Professionalism courses.
- Christy Hopkins
Hello, my name is Christy Hopkins, and I am a lead associate dean for the School of Technology. I have 20-plus years in entrepreneurship, pharmaceutical sales, and management. I joined Independence University in 2014 and thoroughly enjoy helping students accomplish their academic goals. I continue to manage a small marketing firm that assists with brand recognition. I received my BAS in marketing from the University of Florida, Gainesville, and I am currently pursuing an MS in information systems. My family and I live outside of Denver, Colorado, and I enjoy all this beautiful state has to offer.
- Jason Merrill
Jason Merrill is an associate dean in the School of Graphic Arts at Independence University. He has been with IU for about six years and teaches various courses in the graphic arts program. Jason has worked in the fields of design, technology, and education for over two decades. He has an associate's degree in graphic design, a bachelor's degree in business administration, and is currently completing his MBA.
His love for design began two years after high school when he was mentored by a Disney animator. Jason has worked for Apple, Inc., where he trained hundreds of design professionals, as well as people in film, music, photography, and other industries. "Jason has also worked on the design team at Franklin Covey and for the respected graphic design studio, Skogen Group, where he served clients ranging from Dell to the Utah Scottish Association. In addition, Jason has run his own consulting and freelance design firm for the last 20 years.
- Shell Redfern
A Wisconsin native, Shell Redfern began her career as a graphic designer in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Shell's college internship turned into a full-time job with an independent television station where she created on-air graphics and TV Guide and newspaper ads, in addition to sales collateral. It was there that she was introduced to Apple computers. Shell caught on to the technology quickly, and her knowledge of both traditional paste-up design and the up-and-coming world of technology gave her a much-needed skillset to propel her career forward. While in Milwaukee, Shell worked on accounts that included clients such as Blue Cross/Blue Shield, GE, Harley Davidson, and others.
In 1990, Shell moved to Fort Myers, Florida, and opened her own design firm. There, she continued to expand her knowledge of both the Mac platform and graphic design theory through the production of several monthly publications, brand development and implementation, and the creation of multimedia marketing tools. Her work received awards, including ADDYs and a "Best of Show" award in two Florida public relations associations.
In 2004, Shell began teaching and was immediately promoted to program manager of design studies at Southwest Florida College. In 2014, she was introduced to Independence University where she currently serves as an associate dean for the School of Graphic Arts.
- Christina Fosbrink
Greetings! My name is Christina Fosbrink, and I have been with Independence University since 2010 in the School of Graphic Arts. I've been teaching for 12 years in areas like communications, theatre, and graphic design. I hold a BA in communication, an MS in multimedia technology, and several diploma certificates. I am currently pursuing my doctorate in education at Northcentral University, where my dissertation is on benchmarking in online education, a topic I'm very passionate about.
I got my start in graphic design as a billboard artist and educator in Nebraska. Since then, I've worked in advertising, website design, and as a freelancer, and I currently own my own business. In my first job as an educator, I realized the difference I could make in my students' lives. This made me further pursue teaching graphic design. I have taught several courses at IU, and it's always a treat to see students learning from what I have taught them. I truly value that experience every day.
Remember: "Carpe diem." You only live each day once, so make it count!
- Carly Lyn Heath
Carly Lyn Heath is a graduate of Chapman University (MFA in film production) and San Francisco State (BA in cinema with a minor in drama/costume design). She is the founding owner of Charming Films, LLC, a film production, illustration, and design company, and she is the writer and director of the award-winning, feature-length film A Foundling, starring Cindy Chiu and Tim Chiou, which is available on iTunes and Amazon. In addition to numerous film festival screenings and awards for her short films, Carly is also the winner of the exclusive Alden B. Dow creativity fellowship, which awards three American artists every year.
Recently, Carly was named a finalist for the 2015 Alexander Cappon prize for fiction and the 2015 David Nathan Meyerson prize for fiction. She also illustrates for authors and literary journals and her work can be seen in upcoming issues of F(r)iction magazine.
As an instructor at IU, Carly teaches Photoshop®, a program which she uses extensively for her illustration, design work, and filmmaking.
- April Bliss
My life's journey is to inspire and be inspired. To be happy, positive, patient, and compassionate. To remain a free spirit who is uninhibited by restraints, while keeping an open mind to new thoughts and ideas around me. To give hope and inspiration to others in need. I am a free spirit, animal activist, designer, educator, inspirational speaker, happy-go-lucky, Leo, a yogi, and a positive energetic, girl who lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
With over 14 years in the design industry, I have worked for various advertising agencies and publication companies throughout Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Florida. I earned a bachelor of science degree in graphic design at La Roche College in May 2000, graduating cum laude. I also earned a master of arts degree in graphic design from Savannah College of Art and Design in August 2012. Furthermore, I taught design classes in higher education for two years at Southwest Florida College in Tampa where I was involved in the development of the courses that I instructed. I am currently teaching online graphic design classes at Independence University and Stevens-Henager College.
- Thomas SantaMaria
As a lead associate dean for the School of Technology at IU, I have over 30 years of experience in a variety of industries, including education, academia, healthcare information systems, executive decision systems, and technology. I have also served in adjunct faculty positions at Colorado Christian University and Pikes Peak Community College.
My other roles include supervisor and teacher of programming courses, capstone mentor, assistant to the dean for the School of Information Technology, curriculum developer, master course shell manager, data analyst, and report writer for the department.
I served in the USAF Medical Service for 21 years, retiring in 2001. During my career, I was an integral part of the Air Force's healthcare information systems development and deployment team. After retirement in 2001, I continued serving the Air Force Medical Service as a data analyst and executive decision support systems director for the USAF Academy Hospital.
In addition to my experience in technology and healthcare, I also hold certifications as a Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) and several application certificates as a Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP). I hold a master's degree in business administration with an emphasis in technology management. I am an accomplished marathon runner and have served on the board of directors for the Pikes Peak Road Runners Club for many years. I have lived in Colorado Springs for the past 25 years, and I have three children and three grandchildren. I am active in many technology, healthcare, and education associations, working to improve all facets of human computer interaction, experience, and protection.
- Marisa May
Marisa earned her master of arts degree from Sam Houston State University and is currently pursuing an Ed.D. through Liberty University. She is primarily interested in research and mathematics curriculum.
Mrs. May has spent more than ten years teaching in Texas public high schools and middle schools. While serving as a high school teacher, she developed a curriculum to address new state math standards and Advanced Placement objectives. She enjoys blending her years of experience in the brick-and-mortar classroom with the challenge of the online environment. Her goal is to help students of all ages reach their educational goals.
Marisa lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband and five children. She enjoys reading, and also running, although the Texas heat can make it difficult.
- Angela Sweeney
I teach ENG101 and SOAR English for Independence University, where I started in January 2010. I hold a master of arts degree in English literature and writing from Utah State University. I also earned a bachelor's degree in music, violin performance, from USU.
I enjoy teaching writing courses because I get to work with a variety of students. They all bring something different to the table. Writing is an important skill that students seize onto. Our students are highly motivated and have a great attitude about learning. I love working to help our students grow and develop from wherever they are!
- Karen Combs
I love teaching better than just about anything I can think of. I have a degree in elementary education and one in special education. Both have given me great insight into the learning styles of my students for 30 years. I've spent most of my time teaching fifth grade. I have always used technology in my classes and found a master's program in educational technology a perfect fit for me. While completing this degree, I began to dream of teaching college online. I have always used writing in every subject area as a way for students to express themselves, as well as show what they've learned. I love to write and love to share my enthusiasm for writing!
I teach in the SOAR program at IU, which stands for Student Online Academic Refinement. I'm able to help students who either haven't been to school in a long time or who've always hated English to develop their writing skills and realize they do have what it takes to succeed in an online university. For most students, all it takes are a few lessons on writing basics and some encouragement that someone believes in them, and they regain the confidence they need to be successful students. What a great job!
- Kristena Houghtaling
Kristena Houghtaling is a full-time instructor in our General Education department. She teaches English courses, including ENG101 and SOAR English. Prior to joining Independence University,she was an adjunct professor at Brigham Young University-Idaho, where she taught ENG101 and basic writing. She earned her bachelor's degree in English education from Cal Poly Pomona and her master's degree in English from National University.
Kristena lives in southern California with her husband and daughter, and she loves the beach, Disneyland, and eighty-degree Christmases. Her experience as an online student was a jumping-off point for her desire to teach online. She saw how important distance education was in bringing college to nontraditional students, as well as how convenient an online environment can be for students who have other responsibilities, such as jobs and families.
Kristena is proud to be a part of a university that strives to make education available to all.
- Stefani Nelson
I have taught at Independence University for over five years and love what I do! I received my bachelor of science degree in psychology from Utah State University and went on to receive my master of science in mental health counseling from the University of Phoenix. I currently teach CSS 101, Psychology of Motivation, and PSY 220, Psychology. I am also a licensed mental health therapist and have a background in treating depression, substance abuse, anxiety, and trauma.
I have worked in different clinical settings, most recently for a psychiatrist in Salt Lake City. I opened up my private practice a few years ago in Pleasant Grove, Utah, and work primarily with people struggling with PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).
I love being a therapist and instructor. Both afford me the opportunity to teach others and watch them grow and succeed. On a personal note, I have been married ten years. I have two daughters, and I enjoy running, traveling, and cooking. This picture of me was taken about five years ago on the California coast, which is one of my favorite vacation spots.
- Laura Hamm
My name is Laura Hamm, and I have been a general education instructor for Independence University for two years. I have taught pre-algebra, college algebra, and physics during my tenure here.
I was raised and still live in the small town of Stanford, Kentucky, where I also teach geometry and pre-calculus at Lincoln County High School, my alma mater. I graduated from Cumberland College where I majored and minored in math and physics, respectively, and have earned two master's degrees, one in secondary mathematics and the other in educational leadership from Eastern Kentucky University.
Even though I have a passion for teaching, it's the connection I get to make with students of all ages that I truly enjoy the most.
- Dr. Andrew Black
Dr. Andrew Black received his Ph.D. in professional studies in education from Capella University in 2010. He has also received an MS in healthcare informatics, an MBA in technology management, and undergraduate degrees in electronics engineering and business.
Dr. Black has worked professionally in the IT operations industry since 1990, including a position as manager of IT for the $1.5 billion I-15 reconstruction project in Salt Lake City prior to the 2002 Winter Olympics. He has also been the IT project manager and director for multiple large building design reconstruction projects, including most recently the $24 million renovation of the University of Utah College of Nursing, which also implemented a 13,000-square-foot nursing simulation center with more than $5 million in technologies. This is now one of the top simulation centers in the United States.
Dr. Black began teaching in higher education in 2000, instructing technology courses with ITT Technical Institute. He has also been an associate dean with ITT and has taught at Salt Lake Community College.. He is currently the associate dean over the MIS program with Independence University and Stevens-Henager College. He is also the executive director of educational technologies and an assistant professor with the University of Utah College of Nursing. In his "spare" time, Dr. Black operates a small IT business repairing broken cell phones and fixing computers. He also does painting in homes and small businesses. He is the local Scoutmaster for his area and enjoys playing many different sports.
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At Independence University, our flexible online degree programs will help you prepare for employment in some of today's most rewarding job fields. Our programs are career-focused, without elective courses that you don't want or need. You can finish your degree in as few as 20 months!3 Contact an admissions consultant today.
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Independence University is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) is a recognized accrediting agency by the U.S. Department of Education.
"Independence University gave me the opportunity to have that flexibility to spend time with my family, my three little kids, and still go to school. Independence University was a great fit for me."
- Dustin Groves
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
"Thanks to earning my master's degree, it gave me the confidence to open up a business."
- Mimi Raza
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
"I like to be in a classroom setting. I was definitely scared when I first enrolled at IU. With the online learning platform and the support I received from my instructors and my associate deans online, I really didn't feel a difference between being online and being in a classroom. I still had all the same resources. I had the same support."
- Taban Bustani
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
"The instructors were very knowledgeable. They've all had real-world experience, and they can share their experiences with you to help you advance your career."
- Jamie Bingham
Master of Public Health (MPH)
"I think IU has made me a better person. Before, I was just going through life. I had done my military time, and I didn't know where to go. Now, since I've gone to IU and I've gotten my degrees, it's taken me in a whole different direction. I see life differently now from the classes that I've been through. It's a whole different ballgame. Once you get an education, then you see things differently."
- Eddie Underwood
Master of Healthcare Administration (MS)


text:
You know what I have a lot of? Old iPhone cables. You know what I don't have a lot of? Old iPhones. So here are some cheap(er) adapters so your bogus cords are actually useful.
They're $27 on Amazon, so you're saving $2 off the price you'd pay Apple. Plus you can get free shipping on Prime. Hey, savings is savings. [Amazon]


text:
Erie County's financial support is the principal funding source for the B&ECPL. In 2004, County contributions comprised more than 85% of the Library's operating and materials budgets with the balance made up of State operating aid, which has remained relatively stagnant, as well as library fines, fees and related income.
As the chart below illustrates, combining a $21.7 million 2006 Library Tax levy with the loss of County Capital funding for Library materials, Erie County's 2006 support for B&ECPL operating and library materials would be pushed down to levels not seen since 1996-97. This funding level is $7 million and 24.5% less than the Library received in 2004. In fact, the funding level is $4.7 million and 17.9% LESS than the support provided in the year 2000, the last year B&ECPL's library materials budget was fully supported through the Property Tax for Library Purposes.
Learn more about how changes in County Support have affected:
Library Operations and Staffing
Library Materials Budget
View the B&ECPL Operating and Library Materials Budgets 1996-2006 -- Chart.
Library Operations and Staffing
With such a large loss of day-to-day funding support, B&ECPL has no choice but to implement the major restructuring and downsizing that is presented in the 2006 Proposed Budget.
As shown in the B&ECPL Full-Time Position History Information, in 1976, B&ECPL had 576 full-time employees. Thirty years later, in 2006, the full-time staff will be reduced by 62% to 218. Meanwhile, the Library System's performance measures (e.g., 2004 circulation) indicate that the Library System had doubled its productivity even as it introduced a host of new services (e.g., public access computing and web-based reference) during that same 30-year period.
This seems a clear indication that B&ECPL not only manages its resources well, but also approaches challenges with innovation and always keeps an eye on economy. Providing a wealth of resources, services and programs, B&ECPL has long represented a tremendous value for the investment of tax dollars. However, given the dire state of county finances, B&ECPL has no choice but change.
Change means further downsizing and living within a smaller operating budget. Change means saying good-bye to conscientious and talented staff who have made library work not only their livelihood but their life. Change means closing the doors of libraries that have introduced children to the wonder of reading, seniors to a tranquil haven that brings the world of information to them on their own terms, and adults to the skills they require to interview successfully for their next job, change the oil filter on their car, learn a second language or manage their personal finances.
As we proceed into the 21st century, there are fewer corner mailboxes and fewer corner stores than many of us remember from days past, fewer firehouses and police precincts, fewer public and parochial schools, and in 2006 there will be fewer public libraries.
This 2006 Budget, reducing funded libraries from 52 to 36 and scaling back funding at all remaining libraries, seeks to preserve that which offers the greatest capacity to deliver quality library resources and services to the largest number of Erie County residents within the limits of available funding.
Library Materials Budget
Erie County changed how funding for the Library materials budget (books, magazines, audio books, CDs, DVDs, electronic databases, etc.) was supported at the same time they reduced the Library property tax from $26.39 million in 2000 to $22.97 million in 2001. That year, the funding was shifted from the B&ECPL's operating budget to the County Capital Budget funded by tobacco settlement proceeds. This was also the case in 2002 and initially in 2003. Mid-year in 2003, a portion of the budget was shifted to bond funding. In 2004, $4.5 million of the total $4.7 million Library materials budget was funded through the Erie County Capital Budget as a "bonded project." In 2005's adopted budget, a total of $5 million for Library materials was included in the County Capital Budget as a bonded project. This funding has not been borrowed nor transmitted to the B&ECPL.
Since this funding is part of Erie County's Capital Budget, NOT the Library's budget, it is not subject to the provisions of the Library Protection Act. The Library Protection Act prevents the County from reducing Library Tax support once the property tax levy is approved in the budget. However, the County Executive may propose and the County Legislature may amend or approve a different amount (up or down) each year during the Erie County Budget process.
As the County's financial crisis has illustrated, the practice of issuing bonds to purchase Library materials is not an advisable long-term practice and one that the 2006 budget does not continue. This leaves a large hole in the Library funding picture, which is the main reason why existing service levels can not be maintained with the current $21.7 million Library property tax alone.
Addressing the Non-Receipt of 2005 Library Materials Funding
Anticipating the delays caused by this method of financing and the County's overall deteriorating fiscal health, the Library gradually decreased ordering as much as possible in 2004 to increase the amount of cash remaining at the end of the year in the hopes of providing at least minimal service into 2005 (including renewing print and online database subscriptions, many of which occur early in the year). Even with these steps, the Library had to scale back regular materials purchasing to the bare minimum, resulting in the lay-off of 10 processing department staff in January 2005. The continued delay in funding has already forced the Library to lay-off another eight full-time personnel as the 2004 balances were exhausted, and their workload was eliminated.
Without the $5 million in capital money for 2005, the Library has no funds left for materials purchases for the remainder of 2005. This forced the Library to implement even more extensive cuts than already experienced. At its August 4th meeting, the Library Board of Trustees approved a 20% reduction in fourth quarter operations for all libraries. These cuts are funding approximately $1 million in materials purchases for the remainder of the year in order for the Library to continue meeting its mission.
2006 Library Materials Budget Will Also Be Limited
The need to incorporate library materials purchases within the reduced Erie County support expected in 2006 is the major factor driving the restructuring taking place within the B&ECPL. As with any major restructuring, one-time downsizing costs, such as termination payments and unemployment insurance costs for laid off employees as well as asset disposition expense, will be incurred in late 2005 into the 2006 budget. This expense, estimated at $2 million, is therefore not available to support library materials purchases in 2006. To avoid having to close even more libraries in 2006, the amount carved out of the existing operating budget for 2006 library materials purchases is proposed at $1.99 million, $3 million LESS than the 2005 adopted (but not received) capital budget and only about half the amount needed to properly support the 36 remaining libraries funded in the 2006 proposed budget. In 2007, the portion of the 2006 operating budget carved out to cover one-time downsizing would be available to restore the 2007 library materials budget to approximately $4 million, a more adequate amount for a 36-library system. THIS IS DEPENDENT ON 2007 COUNTY SUPPORT NOT BEING FURTHER REDUCED AND LIMITING FUTURE HEALTH AND RETIREMENT EXPENSE GROWTH TO LEVELS THAT CAN BE SUPPORTED BY LOCAL ECONOMIC GROWTH.
2006 Funding Severely Strains Library's Ability to Serve the Community, Restoring Even a Portion of the $7 Million Reduction Urged
The $21.7 million County support in the proposed 2006 budget provides an exceedingly lean funding level in 2006, even for a reduced 36 library system. This drastically reduced support will inhibit the Library's ability to serve Erie County residents properly.
Restoring even a portion of the $7 million reduction would make a major difference. For example, a $2.0 to $2.1 million increase in operating revenue and/or issuing a portion of the 2005 $5 million adopted county capital budget allocation for library materials could be used to raise the proposed 2006 library materials budget from half the national average to the national average of 15% of operating expenditures. This would at least allow the public an adequate level of new books and other library materials to help offset the fact that they will be provided through a reduced number of library facilities open fewer total hours in 2006.


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It's time to dip our toes into the wild, watery world of Illinois with our friends at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago – the world's largest indoor aquarium housing more than 8,000 aquatic animals. Did you know they care for five Illinois threatened or endangered species at the Aquarium and share their important story with their guests everyday? Read on to submerge yourself in Shedd's incredible conservation efforts!
"Everyone should know and care about the endangered animals in their own backyard"
If you live in Illinois, your neighbors include 484 endangered or threatened species. These at-risk plants and animals include blue herons, ground squirrels, wood orchids, river chub and mudpuppies– species that we all know and love. Yet, human activity threatens their existence and the health of our local ecosystems.
As a leader in conservation, Shedd Aquarium is fortunate to care for five endangered or threatened Illinois species in our At Home on the Great Lakes exhibit. Though they may be lesser-known, these aquatic animals are amazingly unique and vital to the Great Lakes – which is why we're so excited by ARKive's new Illinois species page. Everyone should know and care about the endangered animals in their own backyard.
"We care for endangered Illinois species both big and small"
At Shedd, we care for endangered Illinois species both big and small, including the alligator snapping turtle, lake sturgeon, hellbender, redspotted sunfish and Iowa darter. By far the heaviest endangered animal we have is Guinness, the alligator snapping turtle. At more than 100 pounds, he's a good representative of the largest freshwater turtle species in North America. As part of his care, Guinness has been trained to come to a target to get his food, just like our dolphins and whales do. He looks positively prehistoric with his dinosaur-like beak and thick scales, but he surprised trainers with how quickly he can learn.
The lake sturgeon, which has been around since the days of the dinosaurs, is another big endangered animal at Shedd. Reaching lengths of 3 to 9 feet, the lake sturgeon is the largest fish in the Great Lakes basin. Its vacuum-like mouth sucks up anything from lake or river bottoms. At Shedd, guests can touch a sturgeon and feel the protective bony plates under the skin of this bottom-dwelling fish.
The hellbender, the largest salamander species in North America, is surprisingly hard to find in the wild – especially now that it's endangered in Illinois. The presence of hellbenders is often an indicator of good water quality, so the species' endangered status points to greater problems in our aquatic ecosystems. Shedd's hellbender was rescued from an illegal shipment at O'Hare International Airport; on exhibit, he keeps a low profile among the habitat's rocks.
The endangered redspotted sunfish and threatened Iowa darter are smaller though no less important than any other Great Lakes fish. The redspotted sunfish lives in marshes and streams – such as the Illinois River – and is largely threatened by invasive species. The Iowa darter, often mistaken for a minnow, is Shedd's smallest threatened species. This fish is unique because it lacks a swim bladder to keep it afloat, which means it stays at the bottom of rivers and lakes.
"We hope that greater awareness and stronger regulations … will soon restore these endangered animals' wild populations"
Through the Illinois Endangered Species Protection Act, we hope that greater awareness and stronger regulations on overhunting, over-collecting, habitat destruction and toxic contamination will soon restore these endangered animals' wild populations. In the meantime, Shedd Aquarium will continue to care for these five Great Lakes animals and 41 other endangered or threatened animals from around world.
Nadia Hlebowitsh, Online Communications, Shedd Aquarium
From turtles to fish to salamanders, Shedd Aquarium has hardly left a river stone unturned in their aquatic species conservation efforts. Thank you for celebrating WILD Illinois with us and sharing stories from the Shedd Aquarium! Looking to surf more species and habitats in Illinois? Take a dip in our new Illinois feature page to explore 100+ species that call The Prairie State home!


text:
Maybach Music Group Presents: Masspike Miles New Mixtape "Superfly" Rhythm & Streets [Gangsta Grillz Edition][Hosted By Dj Drama & Dj Sense][Free Download Link Inside][User Submitted]
"Maybach music group presents : Masspike Miles' exclusive
classic new mixtape " Superfly " Rhythm & Streets [Gangsta Grillz edition]
hosted by DJ Drama & DJ Sense.
follow Masspike Miles on twitter @masspikemiles
{Superfly download link}
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text:
COOKEVILLE, Tenn. - Their names might both begin with the letter
E, but Tennessee Tech senior Evgenia Yartseva came away with a win
while visiting Eastern Illinois took home a pair of 7-0 losses to
both Golden Eagle tennis teams.
"We played strong on both sides today," said coach Dan Silverstein. "We got both doubles points and did not look back from there."
The Tech women got a little boost as Eastern Illinois could only produce five players. The Golden Eagles got the forfiet wins at number three doubles and number six singles.
Sophomores Kelly Holtzhausen and Katie Barnhill took the first game of their number one doubles match and rode that to the 8-4 win.
The lone EIU win on the day came at number two doubles when Annie Egan and Shannon Brooks took a tough 8-6 decision from freshmen Tatiana Denezhkina and Alena Krutkina.
Holtzhausen gave Tech the 3-0 lead after picking up her 13th win of the spring, 6-1, 6-4 over Cara Huck. But it was Yartseva that clinched the win with her win.
"I was so happy that I won today," Yartseva said. "My teammates were cheering me on and that helped me so much."
Tech (6-7, 5-2 OVC) is in a tie for third place in the OVC after the win.
The Tech men's team got off to a slow start but picked it up after sweeping all three doubles matches against the Panthers.
The duo of sophomores Dean O'Brien and Josh Girling won at the top spot 9-7 after the pair of Oscar Pachon and Mario Gutierrez clinched the doubles point with a 9-8 (8-6) win at number three. The freshmen collaberation of Alex Chen and Justin Kirstein got Tech the first win in doubles with an 8-6 triumph.
Singles picked up right where doubles had left off for the Golden Eagles.
Eastern Illinois was only able to take away two sets from Tech as four of the six singles matches went the Golden Eagles way in straight sets.
At number one, O'Brien lost his first set in a five matches as he dropped the opening set to Jeff Rutherford, 4-6. Not wanting to loose his match and improve to 15-1 on the spring, O'Brien gave up only one more game the rest of the match taking the 4-6, 6-1, 6-0 win from the Panthers.
Vuk Milecevic was the other player to take a set from the Golden Eagles evening his match at number three with Chen, 6-4, 1-6. But once again Tech rebounded quickly and Chen took the deciding set 6-1 in a reverse of momentum.
It was Gutierrez at number five singles that clinched the win.
"Mario was very focused today for us," Silverstein said. "A convincing win like this is reallyg going to help us bulid momentum for our match against Eastern Kentucky this Friday."
The Tech women will play next on the road Wednesday at UNC Asheville before returning home for a match against EKU with the men on Friday.
The men's match against the Colonels could have the potential to give Tech a share of the OVC title with Jacksonville State and the Colonels.
Tech Tennis gets clean sweep of Panthers; win 7-0 on both sides
COOKEVILLE, Tenn. - Their names might both begin with the letter
E, but Tennessee Tech senior Evgenia Yartseva came away with a win
while visiting Eastern Illinois took home a pair of 7-0 losses to
both Golden Eagle tennis teams.


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|2009-07-31, 23:47
|Link #8523
Junior Member
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: Lalaland
Whoooo this place is big! Don't know where to start! xD
Not sure what to say really, but I found this place when I was looking for somewhere to discuss Code Geass, what I am all about lately. Can't get enough of that show!
So um...hi all! There looks to be a forum for posting art and such. Since I draw a lot I'll probably go hang out there. (:
|2009-08-01, 05:39
|Link #8524
Sugar_Prayer <333
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: Living on a remote island somewhere in the South Pacific
@KenjiKun & Tally: Welcome to AnimeSuki! Have fun and enjoy your stay! ^_^
So, Tally, you like drawing too? I love to draw as well but I never showed my drawings to anyone before :/
|2009-08-01, 07:22
|Link #8526
Sugar_Prayer <333
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: Living on a remote island somewhere in the South Pacific
|2009-08-01, 07:42
|Link #8528
Sugar_Prayer <333
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: Living on a remote island somewhere in the South Pacific
There's plenty to discuss about here so don't worry about it! ^_^
|2009-08-01, 17:22
|Link #8529
Intellectual Thug
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: In the hood, Pa, United States
Age: 32
I came here looking for discussion on Umineko. I decided this looks like a great place, and hopefully i can kidnap the time of some japanese speaking people to help me with my self study. So in conclusion, what is really good yall?
|2009-08-01, 17:52
|Link #8530
School... >_<
Wussup people? I'm new here - name is Aya (not mah full name - short nickname given to me by multiple people online and in real life), and I'm 1/4 Korean on my dad's side, and my mom is 3/4 Japanese... -too lazy to do the math- I speak both Japanese and English pretty fluently, and am at the moment learning Korean. I've been -cough- stalking this site for a while now (mainly for image/music threads) for various shows (is a major otaku... =w=), and I decided "Hey, why the heck not?" and signed up for an account. I'm mainly into the horror/mystery genre, but I have quite a few romance/comdedies that are on my top 10 list. I've written a good fanfic or two in my time... but I don't think this is the place to discuss my mediocre literary skills. ;P Wish I could write more, but then I'd seem a bit conceited... >-< Looking forward to an enjoyable experience here~!
|2009-08-02, 02:09
|Link #8532
Junior Member
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: South Africa
Hey there.
Gosh i'm really bad with introduction- or at least... I think so. Ok... So let me start with the basics at least:
I'm Nikusu-chan and i'm using my cellphone to send this message all the way from South Africa. Yes, down here where we drive on the left side of if road, where 20°C is considered nice weather and you surely heard... We got Mandela. ^_^
I really came here at first because of the two Avatar threads that caught my attention- The one is the tutorial (which i'm kinda getting confused at), and the 'request an Avatar' thread. I can't go see what the actual names of the threads are while i'm typing this message, sorry.
I'm still getting used to the layout of this forum, but there's so much more info here than what's allowed on other forums, so i think i'll stay.
I can't be too picky about where and when i get Anime, so i have small, but fairly leveled genre list. (Mostly Cyberpunk... But there's comedy, slice-of-life, horror, drama and ghibli too.)
Since i don't a normal internet line, i can't download stuff yet, but i hope that'll change next year.
I hope to make friends here and just have a good time.
So hello everyone-pleased to meet you. ^_^
|2009-08-02, 21:36
|Link #8535
Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: U.S. East Coast
Hello there everyone,
I'm basically new here - I'm a huge lurker, particularly in the Higurashi/Umineko forums, but I'm going to try to post more. When school starts up again, though, I have a feeling I might go back to lurking.
This is a really great forum that I've enjoyed reading for quite awhile now, so I decided I might as well join in on the fun! I'm sure I'll have a good time here. Nice to meet everyone!
|2009-08-03, 21:45
|Link #8537
Beato's Pet Lion.
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: Canada~Its cold here~
Age: 26
I'm HaizuUsa~
I'm a long time lurker but I finally joined the fourm here~
I like making avatars and signatures and coding websites and what not
I'm pretty sure if you look "geeky" up in the dictonary you'll see me ^3^~
Chuu,I'm hoping to enjoy my time here~
|2009-08-03, 23:28
|Link #8538
Junior Member
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: Derris Kharlan
Hello there,
I'm dlxro.
My interests: girls, food, anime, programming, games, money.
About me:
Male, 18 years old.
Currently searching for a good university(going to Sweden or Canada).
I like to code in C++, C and some php, javascript, java (all of them self taught).
I'm mainly a console gamer just because my laptop is not good for gaming, buying a new one soon for my projects. Also I develop a bit for RO pservers when I'm free.
My favorite food:
Italian food.
My favorite Anime(s):
Fate/Stay Night, Bleach, Gundam series.
Language Spoken: Spanish and English.
I hope I can get along with most of the members here :P
|2009-08-04, 01:15
|Link #8539
Disabled By Request
new beginnings.
im new. and as you have apparently seen im very very extremely young.
i mean i even saw a member whos 30! phs! damn anyways it makes no difference gosh damn! wait.wait. whoever is interested in my posts or threads well go to my page and read damnit!
|introduction, new members
|Thread Tools


text:
Amazon Masterclass training - Leeds
Online Seller UK
Amazon marketplace has brought great opportunity and growth to lots of businesses in the UK and the same can also apply to your business. This course helps you explore the untapped potential to grow your business with Amazon. In this informative session, we will share our experience of working with many successful UK Amazon sellers and will share proven methods of being successful on Amazon.
This is a perfect workshop for growing online businesses aiming to improve performance and expand globally. It is tailored to suit your business needs and there will be an opportunity to discuss your individual business plan. You will leave with a prepared action plan to start & grow your business with Amazon.
Who is this workshop suited to?
Digital Marketers, Directors, Managers
Some key areas of the workshops are:
Amazon product listing optimisation
Product differentiation – bundles and multibuy
Amazon SEO best practices
Amazon Sales growth tools for advanced sellers
Amazon business reports best practices
How buy box works?
Amazon repricing – tools and strategies
Amazon account health check
How to improve Amazon product reviews?
Amazon Marketing Services: Sponsored Ads and Headline Search
Amazon Marketing Services Progressive plan
3 PL UK Fulfilment Centres vs Offshore Fulfilment Centres
Amazon Global Selling – listing your products on Amazon EU and the USA
Amazon FBA, Pan Europe and the USA
Multiple shipping settings – UK and international
Localising your Amazon Listings on the international marketplace
Minimising currency risk when you sell in Europe
Introduction to Amazon Vendor Central
Product sourcing best practices
Introduction to tariff codes, import duty, taxes and restrictions
Introduction to logistics – FOB, CIF, Ex Works
Financial sound check – taxation and VAT
Just a few of the fantastic organisations who've attended our previous training.
| Laura, Ledhut
Prahbat is incredibly knowledgeable about Amazon, outlining key areas such as sponsored listings, search terms, Pan-European strategies and best practices.
The class size too was great: only 5 on my particular day which gave us the chance to ask questions and look at all our live feeds. Going forward, the information provided will no doubt enable us to grow our marketplaces in the UK and beyond. I will certainly be returning for future events.
| Quy, Ledus
Thoroughly enjoyed the event, very informative and detailed on different aspect and techniques used on Amazon. Learnt many new strategies, particularly the campaign management and search terms and has boosted my product views and margins by a good 30%. People was very friendly and on hand to share their experiences and knowledge on the subject matter. Will definitely attend future events.
| Angela Morris, Doordecorandmore
The advice we received was very personal to us! Our company has been selling on Amazon for a couple of years, but felt that I needed to get more involved in this side of things. I left the course with my head full of ideas, and a "To do" list – all things that need to be done! I'm sure I'll be attending another of the courses at some point in the future.
| Juan, Bravoo Ltd
The Amazon Sellers course is definitely worth attending. Prabhat certainly knows his stuff when it comes to online selling. In addition, he was more than happy to answer all of our questions in a confident and friendly manner. The course covered all of the fundamentals required to be a professional seller on Amazon. We left feeling far more confident.
Can't make it to Leeds or looking for bespoke course? We are happy to provide onsite Amazon training to you and your team. Call us on 0161 3272 923 or 0751 88 39629
Please note by booking a ticket to this event, you agree to our event T & Cs ( Please Read )
For more details please contact Prabhat Shah on twitter @OnlineSellerUK, via email to firstname.lastname@example.com or you can call +44 (0) 0161 3272 923
Organised by Online Seller UK in Partnership with We Are Digitl
Online Seller UK (OSUK) is a national training organisation founded by Prabhat Shah aiming to help businesses of all sizes eCommerce and digital marketing training. Prabhat is well known in the industry and has appeared several times Tamebay, eSeller, Webretailer. Academically, he has a Diploma in Digital Marketing from CAM foundation the UK and an MBA. Along with this project, Prabhat has developed DaytodayeBay which provides marketplace and e-commerce solutions.
Online Seller's story starts back in 2009 when it started to engage with local businesses through local free
Meetups. Like everything else, it had a humble beginning with a handful of businesses in attendance. It soon grew to 30 regular attendees in Newport and Cardiff. Our aim was to equip sellers with bite-size learning in a comfortable environment and that can be implemented immediately in their business.
Realising the growing need for independent digital events, we started collaborating with businesses throughout the UK to organise Meetups. The collaboration is continuing with events in Newcastle, Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham, London, Bristol, Norwich and Brighton. Our Meetups have now started to get international interests which are very encouraging.
Along with Meetups, Online Seller UK's training program is well received with attendance from a national and international audience. As an organisation we are aiming to help businesses in three ways:
(1) Digital Marketing & eCommerce Workshops covering most of the live-wire digital marketing topics; from eBay, Amazon to Search Engine Optimisation (SEO), Email Marketing and Google Shopping and Adwords, all at affordable prices. These workshops are available regularly throughout the UK and also online or onsite.
(2) Digital Marketing & eCommerce Meetups providing a free educational evening to businesses throughout the UK. These Meetups are informal evenings and give an opportunity for businesses to meet industry experts and other online sellers in a comfortable environment.
(3) Digital Marketing Consulting & Services for offline and growing online businesses throughout the UK. This could be one off one day consulting or on a monthly basis. Additionally, our eCommerce solutions are available to solve any issues you may have in your business.
Please feel free to get in touch with any questions you have regarding our training and meetups.
In order to purchase these tickets in installments, you'll need an Eventbrite account. Log in or sign up for a free account to continue.


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Get asked often about what bike to buy and I always say, "if you've got the means go custom and have them bespoke build whatever you want." Like this Urban bike with belt drive.
click through for full rez to see the custom light mount.
It has custom fenders and needed a mount for the dynamo light. Davidson has a machine shop in the back, so they made one. You can find a builder near you with the same or similar capabilities. From paint to fit, you name it and they'll build it. Just like they've been doing for decades.


text:
Got a Facebook profile with vulgarities or embarrassing pages you shouldn't have liked? Now there's a way to clean them up.
A trio of Kent State University undergrads have put together the "Facewash" app that'll search through a user's Facebook activity and content for items that the user may want to hide or delete. That could include status updates, photo captions, and comments users left or received as well as pages and links that were liked.
"We realized that there's a lot of content that perhaps someone might not want a future employer to see," Daniel Gur, 22, said Wednesday.
QUIZ: How much do you know about Facebook?
Gur created the app over the weekend with two friends and fellow computer science majors from his school -- Camden Fullmer, 21, and David Steinberg, 24. The three students built Facewash in less than two days while at a hackathon at the University of Pennsylvania.


text:
Architectural Review Committee Meeting
Committee meetings are determined by individual Committees and may or may not occur on a regular basis. Meetings are closed to the public in order to focus on business at hand.
Event Properties
|Event Date
|06-25-2018 5:30 pm
|Event End Date
|06-25-2018 7:00 pm
|Landa Library Annex


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Zip-top Leather Trim Showerproof Backpack
€790.00 €790.00
€480.00 €480.00
All orders will be fulfilled by Burberry Limited and shipped from the UK. When you place your order, you accept Burberry's Terms and Conditions and confirm that you have read our Privacy Policy.
Size Guide
Use the Size Guide to choose the best fit for your measurements.
In this window, you can find out the shipping and returns options for the selected item.
In this window, you can contact customer service for further assistance.
- A lightweight, showerproof backpack in nylon, woven for durability. Built for versatility, the zip-top design features a detachable crossbody strap and leather top handle. The back panel is padded for additional comfort.
- 29 x 12 x 38cm/11.4 x 4.7 x 15in
- Min. shoulder strap length: 52cm/20.5in
- Max. shoulder strap length: 85cm/33.5in
- Outer: 85% polyamide, 15% acrylic
- Trim: 100% leather
- Lining: 100% polyamide
- Zip closure
- Exterior zip pocket
- Interior zip pocket, slip pocket
- Detachable crossbody strap
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Rolled leather top handle
- Raised Burberry lettering at front
- Imported
Item 40649131
Wear this with
Breton Stripe Cotton Jersey Top
€85.00 €170.00
Skinny Fit Brushed Stretch Denim Jeans
€140.00 €270.00


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iPhone Blamed for Chinese Woman's Electrocution Death
Jul 15, 2013 10:08 AM PT
Ma Ailun, a 23-year-old woman from northwest China, died after being electrocuted by her iPhone, according to relatives.
Ma died while using the device, which was charging at the time, according to reports. Local police confirmed that electrocution was the cause of death, but stopped short of pinning blame on the iPhone.
While evidence the iPhone caused the accident may seem flimsy at first blush, the story has nonetheless gained traction throughout China. The Xinhua news agency picked it up, and a microblog post by the victim's sister has reportedly gone viral.
Heeding the publicity, Apple released a statement saying it was "deeply sorry for the unfortunate accident" and that it will launch a probe into the case.
This is the latest in a series of incidents that have caused image problems for Apple in China. In March, in what may have been retaliation for the United States' treatment of Chinese telecommunications companies, China's state-run media ran a television special lampooning Apple for the substandard service it offered in China; Apple later issued an apology to Chinese consumers. Then, in May, Chinese authorities accused Apple of tax evasion. So no doubt, it's been a long 2013.
China is Apple's second-biggest market and will become the company's top market before too long, according to Apple CEO Tim Cook.
[Source: Xinhua]
US Opposition Stymies France's Digital Tax Proposal
The U.S. helped thwart France's attempt to garner consensus for tougher international tax rules aimed at digital companies like Google and Amazon.
France's proposal, which will be presented at this week's G20 summit, had to be watered down after senior U.S. officials made it clear they would not support rule changes that affected some of the country's fastest-growing companies.
The U.S. and France aren't seeing eye-to-eye on how far an upcoming Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development action plan should go to reform tax practices. Multinational tax avoidance -- especially among U.S.-born Internet giants like Google, Facebook and Amazon -- was a major topic at last month's G8 summit in the UK. The U.S. is reportedly pushing for tweaks to the wording of current international tax treaties, while France wants a more thorough overhaul, including new passages dealing specifically with digital companies. France also wishes to link taxes to the collection of personal data, a practice that Europeans, especially in France and Germany, find particularly abhorrent.
In 2011, France sought 1.7 billion euros (about US$2.2 billion) from Google in back taxes. France has also gone after Google for displaying snippets of French news articles, and it has floated the idea that Google-owned YouTube should pay extra for bandwidth. More recently, France launched a campaign to eradicate certain discounts and free shipping offered by Amazon.
[Source: The Guardian]
Germany's Angela Merkel Vows Tougher Data Protection
German chancellor Angela Merkel said in a TV interview that she will push for tougher Europe-wide laws to bolster data protection.
Merkel said that Germany -- whose history of rampant data collection has made it extra wary of both government and corporate surveillance -- wanted Internet companies "to tell us in Europe who they are giving data to." She added that the U.S. should follow German laws.
Merkel also said that the EU needed more unified laws -- pointing out, for example, that Facebook being registered in Ireland means the company is subject to Irish law, which might differ from German law.
[Source: BBC]
Russia Pushing for Tighter Government Grip on Web
Two members of Russia's parliament have cited Edward Snowden's NSA leaks as evidence that Internet companies should "be under national controls" and comply more closely with Russia's laws on personal data storage.
Such a move, according to rights groups, could allow Russian law enforcement to gain access to services like Gmail and Facebook.
There's a certain irony in Russia using Snowden to justify data collection, The New York Times points out. Snowden, after all, said his ongoing series of leaks is designed to curb government snooping, but in Russia, at least, it could have the opposite effect.
An ad hoc committee formed following Snowden's revelation has indeed recommended that foreign companies comply with national laws on personal data -- laws that can require encryption programs licensed to the Federal Security Service, the successor to the KGB.
[Source: The New York Times]


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Customers might wonder how the pairing of two profit-hungry cable giants will remedy the biggest problem: ever-increasing monthly bills.
Time Warner Cable has just sent out notices of its latest rate hikes, which take effect with the next bill. As usual, the company says higher prices were unavoidable.
On the one hand, it says, "the rates that TV networks and programming providers are charging us to deliver your favorite channels have risen to new highs."
At the same time, "the cost to maintain and grow our infrastructure has also increased."
Both of those explanations are valid. But what
Time Warner lost 831,000 TV subscribers last year but gained 154,000 broadband Internet customers.
The company's new rates reflect efforts to squeeze more money out of both camps.
On the broadband front, Time Warner's Lite Internet service will now cost $37.99 a month, Basic Internet will be $47.99 and Standard Internet will be $57.99. But, frustratingly, the company neglects to say on its notice to customers what the former prices were.
Dennis Johnson, a Time Warner Cable spokesman, said the company is required by regulators to provide such information for some fees, but Internet rates aren't one of them.
So Time Warner kept the size of the rate hikes to itself. What it apparently doesn't want people to know is that the increase for each Internet tier adds $3 to monthly bills.
That means the 11.1 million broadband customers Time Warner had as of Dec. 31 could be coughing up an extra $33.3 million in monthly revenue, or nearly $400 million a year, depending on their service plan.
Meanwhile, the company's 11.4 million TV subscribers will face an array of higher charges. The monthly cost of set-top boxes and digital video recorders, for example, will rise to $11.25 from $10.
That 12.5% increase will produce more than $14 million a month in additional revenue, or almost $170 million a year.
Johnson said the higher price for boxes reflects "investments to improve customers' experience," including revamped guide and search functions.
I don't know about you, but I haven't noticed my box performing any better, certainly not in any way that merits an extra $15 a year.
Time Warner also is introducing a $2.25 monthly "broadcast TV fee" to address higher costs involved in providing local channels — and presumably to avoid the sort of spats that resulted in a month-long blackout of
That fee will produce more than $25 million a month in revenue, or more than $300 million a year.
To be sure, Time Warner is correct when it says programmers such as Disney,
"Our largest competitors —
The thing is, each of those other companies posted gains in subscribers last year, suggesting higher levels of customer satisfaction. Time Warner is making its shrinking pool of TV subscribers pay more yet is doing precious little to ease their pain.
What Time Warner and other pay-TV companies should do is offer smaller packages of channels that at least hew closer to subscribers' interests. Movie buffs should not be paying for sports channels they don't want. English speakers should not be paying for foreign-language channels.
Ideally, people would pay only for the channels they want — so-called a la carte programming — but this would require programmers and distributors to cooperate in serving consumers' best interests.
That's not going to happen without a prodding from lawmakers, who have grown complacent enjoying a steady diet of political donations from the industry.
Time Warner says things will only get better once Comcast takes over.
"This deal truly is a dream combination," Time Warner Cable Chief Executive Rob Marcus said at an investment conference last week. "It allows us to innovate at a rapid pace. And the value creation opportunity is huge."
Unfortunately, it looks like all that value creation will benefit the companies, not customers.
An elite edge?
This is the time of year when many high school students receive glossy packets saying they've been selected to participate in an elite "leadership" event that can only improve their chances of getting into a top college.
A young reader in Monrovia passed along a packet she received recently from the National Student Leadership Conference, a nonprofit organization that helps high-school students "develop essential leadership skills" at get-togethers held on college campuses.
"For over 25 years, a select group of student leaders from across the country and around the world have come to the NSLC for a truly unique experience," the accompanying letter said.
"We have found that participation in the NSLC is of interest to college admission officers, who seek motivated and academically talented students like you," it said.
Is that true? I asked Michael K. McKeon, dean of admissions at Saint Mary's College of California.
"That's absolute crap," he responded. "The only thing something like that would tell me is that you got fleeced."
And these things aren't cheap. The National Student Leadership Conference comes with a so-called tuition of about $3,000.
It's entirely possible that attending such events can be enriching for young people. But McKeon said college admissions officers would be more impressed by conferences held by actual universities or by a well-known organization such as Model United Nations.
My advice? Save your cash, kids, and crack open the books.
David Lazarus' column runs Tuesdays and Fridays. He also can be seen daily on KTLA-TV Channel 5 and followed on Twitter @Davidlaz. Send your tips or feedback to email@example.com.


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Adrian Latch died October 9, 2012
Adrian Matthew Latch died October 9, 2012 at White County Medical Center. Born in Wilburn to the late Clarence U. Latch and Lolen M. Eden Latch, he was 81.
He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and served during the Korean War.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Latch of McRae; one son, Randall Latch of Springfield, Mo.; two stepsons, Johnny Langley and Jerry Langley both of McRae; two daughters, Nancy Tobin of Crestview, Calif. and Tracee Latch of Cabot; four stepdaughters, Joan Bingham of Searcy, Wanda Lubker of Bald Knob, Alice Watson of Romance, and Mary A. Puckett of Searcy; three brothers, Bill Latch of Little Rock, Bob Latch of Heber Springs, and Otha Latch of Hopewell; 17 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and three great, great-grandchildren.
Visiting hours will be 6-8 p.m. October 11 at the Searcy-McEuen Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. October 12 in the Searcy-McEuen Chapel with burial following at Oaklawn Cemetery.