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The following is a guest post from Scrapbook Update reader Cynthia Ewer. Ewer is a Stampin' Up! demonstrator, as well as the owner of the website OrganizedHome.com and the author of the book Houseworks.
I'm incredibly sad: my journey as a Stampin' Up! demonstrator is coming to a close.
Not that it's what I want to see happen. I'm being forced out by pending changes to the Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator Agreement (IDA). In a nutshell, Stampin' Up! wants to control advertising across the site network that I publish as my day job–even on those sites that have no connection whatsoever to rubber stamping, Stampin' Up!, or papercrafting.
Earlier this week, Stampin' Up! headquarters alerted rank-and-file demonstrators to new provisions in the IDA that will place restrictions on every aspect of a demonstrator's online presence, from e-mail to Twitter. Demos have until September 30 to agree to the new terms; if they don't agree, they'll be dropped after that date.
For this Web publisher, it's the writing on the wall; I will be unable to sign the new agreement.
Why not? Well, here's the problem: the provision steps outside–WAY outside–any reasonable relationship to my Stampin' Up! blog, and applies to my global online presence.
That online presence is my day job: editor and publisher of the OrganizedHome.com site network. That network includes specialty sites like ChristmasPlanner.com and OrganizedChristmas.com–and it runs on advertising. My ad networks pay the bills, so I can offer resources, articles and printables without charging subscription fees.
Now Stampin' Up! insists that because I'm a demo, I am not permitted to accept ads on my network that might compete with Stampin' Up!'s product line. Worse, the new rules apply this restriction globally, to sites in my network which have nothing whatsoever to do with Stampin' Up!.
It's Over-Broad
Advocates of the new rules point to alleged abuse on some Stampin' Up! demo blogs. "You can hardly tell she's a demonstrator for SU!," they argue, "what with all the links to other sales sites!"
You know, I agree with them. Stampin' Up! is within its rights to ask demonstrators to refrain from this kind of marketing confusion–and if that's all the changes accomplished, I'd cheer them on.
Unfortunately, the new rules go far beyond curing blog abuse. The new regulation of "any presence" online interferes with business decisions pertinent to entirely unrelated Web sites.
As one of the cheerleaders for the new plan put it, "you can't serve two masters". I find it presumptuous in the extreme that by owning a small, hobby-based side business, this company believes itself entitled to dictate terms to me concerning my unrelated day job.
It's Intrusive
Even if I wanted to comply, it would be nearly impossible to do so. My site network partners with four or five major ad networks, including Google's Adsense program. As a site owner, I am able to exclude very broad categories–adult ads, political banners, dating sites–but I have no way to pick and choose between a banner ad for craft store Joann's sewing products (permitted under the policy) or a sale on scrapbooking paper at the same merchant.
What rationale can Stampin' Up! offer for this invasion of my business decision-making? I can't find any, aside from a doomed idea that they can somehow control Internet advertising to their advantage.
In any event, it's hardly a toss-up for this business owner. I won't permit the terms of my hobby-only relationship with Stampin' Up! to dictate to me how I run a 13-year-old Web network that's given me an international book contract and television appearances on ABC's The View.
No contest. You lose, Stampin' Up!–and I fail to see what benefit you derive for attempting to place this burden on my unrelated commercial activities.
It's Offensive
Even if I put aside the negative effect on my business that would flow from signing on under these new restrictions, my spirit can't accept them.
By attempting to control "any presence" online, no matter how divorced from or unrelated to their legitimate interests, Stampin' Up! has shown themselves possessed of both a view of the Internet and a view of human relationships that disqualifies them from business partnership with any thinking online business owner.
Their draconian demand to control every message board post, Facebook update or Twitter tweet for everyone who demonstrates their product line is outrageous–and has no relationship to the stated goal of avoiding abuse. I won't censor my entire slate of personal, business or social interactions online for such a slender rationale. And I'm shocked that they would consider such over-reaching to be reasonable for any demo.
I can only speculate whether this new policy was conceived out of a desire to rid the company of "pesky hobby demos", or out of ignorance about the way the Web works–but I doubt that the policy will grant this company the results it is hoping for.
The Revisions
Yes, Stampin' Up! did issue a clarification concerning policy changes affecting demonstrators' online presence.
Sadly, it does not modify or retreat from the central problem of the new policy: the demand that demonstrators cede control over all online communications–even unrelated Web sites, blogs or forums. While it clarifies link policies, and signals a potential turnaround on the issue of gallery uploads and message board involvement, there is no hint that they will address the central privacy issue: extensions of the terms of the IDA to a demonstrator's NON-SU! online presence.
It's still a deal-killer for me.
Let's look at their attempt to justify the policy, comparing demos to a paid product spokesman like Michael Jordan:
Second, the changes in requirements are meant to protect the Stampin' Up! brand and business as a whole, not restrict your personal freedom of creative expression. For example, consider the famous spokespeople that companies contract to represent their products, like Michael Jordan for Nike. Not only would it have been unethical for Michael Jordan to promote Reebok on the side, but Nike likely had a specific agreement with him not to do so. Your response to this comparison is likely, "But we don't have million-dollar bonuses from Stampin' Up!" That may be true, but we do compensate you for the work that you do, and you are definitely our superstars! We consider our demonstrators our partners in business, and an exclusive sales agreement between us is an important aspect of that partnership.
It's still the same-old, same-old: "We consider our demonstrators our partners in business, and an exclusive sales agreement between us is an important aspect of that partnership." So it all comes down to how you define "exclusive"–and clearly, Stampin' Up! does not want to retreat from their position that by signing an IDA, they can exercise control over all aspects of a demo's online communication, whether it pertains to Stampin' Up! or not.
This failure to grasp the distinction between online communication in the service of Stampin' Up! and personal, employment or social communications is the problem. They haven't moved an inch on this one. Because this clarification does nothing to retreat from Stampin' Up!'s assertion that they own it ALL.
The comparison to a paid product spokesman and public figure is misleading. "Superstars" or not in Stampin' Up!'s view, asking for total control of our online presence, whether or not it is in a sphere related to their business interests, is more a contract of adhesion than a fairly compensated arrangement between two equally-empowered commercial entities.
(Can I just say that I highly doubt Michael Jordan's lawyers would permit his private communications to be bound in this way?)
So for all of us, it comes down to a simple question: what value do you place on your online presence?
Stampin' Up acknowledges the value they put on our online presence:
We have invested substantial resources-financial, creative, personnel, etc.-in providing products, services, and tools to help you build your demonstratorship. While these changes may seem restrictive, we feel strongly that they will protect our investments and your business over the long term.
Stampin' Up! puts the value of our online lives at the price of their "investment"–whatever that is. In return, we are expected to cede control over all online presence: e-mail, social networking, message boards, forums or Web sites, whether they have the slightest connection to Stampin' Up! or not.
For hobby demos, is the 20% discount worth giving up the ability to join freely, write freely, publish freely in Internet venues–whether or not they pertain to Stampin' Up!? Or in other words, will you sell your online soul for a mess of pottage?
Bottom line: Stampin' Up! can claim "all your Internets belong to us!", and many demonstrators without much of an online presence will comply.
But Stampin' Up? You're going to lose your best and your brightest.
Starting with me.
[Editor's Note: Comments on this post have become quite contentious. Several have been deleted due to failure to comply with Scrapbook Update's Comment Policy. Please keep debate respectful and polite.]


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subset: commoncrawl


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Wednesday, October 2: Watch BlackBerry, Monsanto
John Shipman takes a look at which stocks traders are watching during market action, including BlackBerry, Monsanto, and Global Payments. Photo: Getty Images.
This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.
... the ... stock you looking at what styles like for it ... BlackBerry will not leave the ... SCC final plea yesterday which expound a little bit on the earnings report last week and isn't deatails and there was a little bit more bleak than what they had at least partly to slow its pace even Davies and once it's not moving the needle a huge amount with BlackBerry does this as we've noted that this situation is pretty grim there but it looks like the restructuring costs could be a little bit more than was ... anticipated ... and also there they have this new ... one or more will focus on businesses ... and a new front that they have on focused on for businesses is getting ... the early adoption that the adoption of the war ... on Global Payments ... mobile payments of strong currents they were the profit was up by thirty percent versus a year ago but this is a company that Dell with some issues about a year ago with the security breach the hackers say they're they're in the midst of facilitating sort of a credit card or crustaceans and an open Small Banks With ... issue credit cards ... and that hackers the steel bottle million half of them never get publicity when hackers steal PB Capital's well let's go with the agri business coming on Samsung's not looking good that they have a little light on the revenue will vote was on the revenue aam and there was a slow build wider than expected ... um but it and also ... guided for fiscal fourteen to be only a little bit below what analysts were expecting but Surface conservative guidance for months and that was not unusual ... deal support company which is interesting that when a company called climate cooperation with ... the isthe is this that section Silicom Valley company that does happen all grown up yet with aches ... and risk management and isn't it interesting acquisition for Monsanto we can see them broadening ... out their portfolio a little bit too late to basically tell farmers of ...


text:
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French Perle Violet Tablecloth 60-in. x 84-in.
Details https://www.belk.com/p/lenox-french-perle-violet-tablecloth-60-in.-x-84-in./71000887464084OBLVIO.html
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Even the cover is awesome!
Thanks so much for your comment. I really appreciate it. Unfortunately, I've been getting lots of spam comments, so I'm turning on word verification to help keep spammers away. I know it's a pain; I don't like it either. Hopefully, in time I'll be able to turn it off again. Thank you!


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prima is a valid word in this word list. For a definition, see the external dictionary links below.
The word "prima" uses 5 letters: A I M P R.
No direct anagrams for prima found in this word list.
Words formed by adding one letter before or after prima (in bold), or to aimpr in any order:
i - impair k - impark l - primal s - primas t - armpit impart
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ai aim air am ami amir amp ar arm imp ma mair map mar mi mir pa pair pam par pi pia pima pram prim ram rami ramp rap ria rim rip
List shorter words within prima, sorted by length
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Isn't anyone aware of the strobe market outside underwater? There are plenty of Nikon and Canon compatible strobes and manufacturers have figured these protocols out. There are even strobes with modular TTL controllers. It's been done just not by underwater strobe manufacturers.
As for some of the points made here:
The Ike strobe is not even a sealed unit now, no strobe is, so adding a module doesn't change that. A properly engineered solution wouldn't even require an additional seal.
The size of the strobe is related to its weight and adding a TTL control board would not require much extra weight. There's already air inside a strobe.
Adding a converter inline in the strobe cable adds failure points that reduce the reliability of the system. That is inarguable. That's not to say inline converters are unreliable (those SnS ones have been), only that they are less reliable.
Inline strobe converters are not universal with respect to strobes OR protocols. Adding them inside the strobe removes the strobe dependency.
Adding a module for each strobe is no big deal. You own at least one battery for each strobe you use after all. It's a matter of cost. These things don't need to be switched out regularly or even at all. Reconfiguring at the factory isn't unreasonable and is already being done.
It is easily conceivable that all protocols could be supported and that only a switch be required. Such a switch would not even require a housing penatration. L&M and Inon have both demonstrated this.
A common cable could be used in such an approach but it may not be the cable you already use.
Frankly, I don't see why anyone would ask a manufacturer to integrate TTL without asking them to also add optical triggering and make TTL work with that. I would rather have an industry standard for optical than TTL personally.
Ikelite hasn't added optical to its strobes so I doubt it's in any rush to implement anyone's specific requests.
Ikelite DS 160
Started by davephdv, Jun 20 2008 02:11 PM
20 replies to this topic
Posted 03 July 2008 - 07:16 AM
I love it when a plan comes together.
- Col. John "Hannibal" Smith
Nikon, Seatool, Nexus, Inon
My Galleries
- Col. John "Hannibal" Smith
Nikon, Seatool, Nexus, Inon
My Galleries


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- Inside Athletics
- Tickets
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Buccaneers and Catamounts will face-off for the 64th time Sunday in Cullowhee
CULLOWHEE, N.C. (Nov. 30, 2013) – After earning its first home victory of the season Friday night, the ETSU women's basketball team will look to keep the momentum going on the road when it travels Sunday to Cullowhee, N.C. to take on the Western Carolina Catamounts at 5 p.m. inside the Ramsey Center.
The Bucs got back into the winning column Friday night by overmatching the Alabama A&M Bulldogs, 82-65, inside Brooks Gym. ETSU dominated A&M in many of the statistical categories including second-chance points (25-8) and points off turnovers (33-16), just to name a few. The Blue and Gold was also paced by junior Serena Clark (Stone Mountain, Ga.) who notched her fourth-consecutive double-double with a career-high 21 points and 11 rebounds.
The matchup with Western Carolina will be the 64th all-time meeting between the two teams. The teams last squared-off in 2007 in the first round of the Women's National Invitational Tournament (WNIT) when the Catamounts dominated the Bucs, 91-63, inside the Ramsey Center. ETSU has dropped two-straight versus WCU.
For more on Sunday's game, read the game notes below. For more on ETSU women's basketball throughout the 2013-14 season, visit ETSUBucs.com and click on the women's hoops link.
Game Notes
The ETSU Department of Intercollegiate Athletics would like to ask both the print and broadcast media to honor our request to be called "ETSU" throughout the 2012-13 season ... East Tennessee State in first reference is acceptable, but subsequent references should be ETSU ... On TV graphics, please use ETSU ... Our nickname is the Buccaneers, but Bucs is also acceptable.
The ETSU Buccaneers enter the 2013-14 season under the guidance of first-year head coach. Brittney Ezell. A two-sport star in basketball and softball at the University of Alabama, Ezell comes to ETSU after spending three seasons as head coach at Belmont University where she compiled a 41-52 overall record. The Franklin, Tenn. native takes the reigns of a veteran-heavy team that returns nine letterwinners from an 8-18 overall 2012-13 campaign. Among the nine returnees are six players who started 10 or more games last season. Highlighted among the returnees is last year's team-leading scorer and rebounder Destiny Mitchell who led the way with 11.5 points and 8.1 rebounds per game. Supporting Mitchell are juniors Serena Clark and Cara Bowling who each averaged 9.5 points per game last season.
Junior forward Serena Clark has started 2013-14 off strong, scoring in double-figures in each of the five games this season. After falling just one rebound short of a double-double in the season opener at Memphis (11/8), the native Georgian has reeled off four-consecutive double-doubles for ETSU. The most recent performance came versus Alabama A&M (11/29) when the junior posted a career-high 21 points and 11 rebounds in an 82-65 win. Clark has now exceeded her double-double total from last season just five games into the 2013-14 campaign and seems poised for more throughout the season. Her 13.6 points per game currently ranks among the top-15 in the A-Sun, while her 12.3 boards per game ranks second in the league.
Junior guard Cara Bowling is currently averaging a team-leading 14.4 points per game for the Bucs to begin the 2013-14 season. This point total per game presently ranks among the top-10 in the A-Sun and her 2.5 three-point field goal makes per game also ranks in the top-10 in the conference. The Elizabethton native posted a career-high 22 points vs. Saint Francis (Pa.) (11/24) including four makes from behind the arc.
Sophomore guard Chandler Christopher has proved to be a valuable piece for the Bucs to begin the 2013-14 season. After spending the entirety of the 2012-13 campaign as a seldom-used freshman walk-on, first-year head coach Brittney Ezell liked what she saw from Christopher and decided to elevate the Greeneville native from walk-on to scholarship status prior to this season. Christopher has since recorded her first-career starts in each of the first five games of this season and has been a vital cog for the Blue and Gold. After netting two points, five rebounds and three assists in the opener at Memphis (11/8), the guard followed with career-highs of 17 points and four assists in an also career-best 37 minutes played in ETSU's 81-72 win at Appalachian State (11/12). Christopher's performance in the Bucs' first win of the season led to her being named A-Sun Player of the Week by College Sports Madness on Monday, Nov. 18. The sophomore then added another team-leading scoring performance to her résumé with 15 points in a 77-69 loss to Morehead State on Nov. 21.
In 2012-13, the Bucs discovered the most offensive production through points in the paint. ETSU averaged roughly 30 points in the paint per game, including an average of 30 points in its last six. In a loss at Jacksonville, the Blue and Gold recorded 54 points in the paint, the most since scoring 50 against Jacksonville earlier this season on Jan. 28 in Johnson City. To begin the 2013-14 season, the Bucs are averaging 38 points in the paint through four games including 36 in the season opener at Memphis (11/8) as well as in the home opener vs. Morehead State (11/21) and in a home date vs. Saint Francis (Pa.) (11/24). The Blue and Gold got a season-high 42 points in the paint in an 82-65 win versus Alabama A&M (11/29).
The Blue and Gold outrebounded the opposition in 20 of the 26 games last season and held a plus-6.0 rebounding margin, ranking first in the A-Sun … in a loss at FGCU, the Bucs outrebounded the Eagles by 20, 53-33. The Bucs' plus-6.0 rebound margin ranked among the top 30 nationally. To start the 2013-14 campaign, ETSU outrebounded the Memphis Tigers 47-44 in a 77-74 overtime loss on Nov. 8 and boarded evenly with the Appalachian State at 40 in the Bucs' 81-72 win in Boone, N.C. on Nov. 12. The Bucs also outrebounded the Morehead State Eagles, 36-27, in a 77-69 loss on Nov. 21. In an 82-65 win versus Alabama A&M (11/29) the Blue and Gold dominated the Bulldogs, 43-29, on the boards. The Bucs' current +4.0 rebound margin ranks third in the A-Sun.
Through five games to begin the 2013-14 season, ETSU is currently averaging 77 points per game which ranks near the top in the A-Sun. With the 77 points per game also come successes in field goal percentage and three-point field percentage where the Bucs are leading the league at 44 and 35 percent, respectively.
The Atlantic Sun coaches picked the Bucs to finish tied with North Florida at fifth, while in the media poll ETSU was selected seventh ... the coaches picked FGCU with seven first-place votes to win the conference, while the media selected FGCU with 30 first-place votes ... the Bucs finished the 2012-13 season in eighth.
ETSU fans wanting to receive Buccaneer news, score updates, in-game promotions and much more sent to their mobile device can do so by signing up for "Buc Updates." Click here to sign up today!


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Aug. 16, 2011-- The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is accepting applications for the 2011 youth waterfowl lottery hunts on White Lake Wetlands Conservation Area (WCA) in Vermilion Parish.
There is no charge for the LDWF-sponsored hunts on Nov. 5 and 6, provided as a quality experience for young waterfowl hunters. The participants in the hunts will be determined by a lottery drawing.
Applications for the lottery should be submitted to LDWF before close of business on Sept. 15, 2011. One applicant will be selected based on the Office of Wildlife's seven field office geographic coverage areas plus one participant selected from the state at large.
Applicants must be 15 years of age and younger. Selected hunters must be accompanied in the blind by a parent or guardian, though the youth will be the only one permitted to possess a firearm.
Applications may be obtained by contacting any of LDWF's field offices or by visiting the LDWF website at http://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/hunting/lottery-hunts . Completed applications may be delivered in person to Room 458 of the LDWF Building in Baton Rouge, or by mail. The mailing address is: Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Attention: White Lake Youth Waterfowl Hunt at P.O. Box 98000, Baton Rouge, LA 70898.
The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana's abundant natural resources. For more information, visit us at www.wlf.louisiana.gov on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ldwffbor follow us on Twitter @LDWF.
For more information on White Lake WCA youth waterfowl hunts, contact Wayne Sweeney at 337-479-1894 or firstname.lastname@example.com .


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Patrick rejects Legislature's transportation plan
Governor Deval Patrick today rejected the Legislature's transportation finance bill because he said it did not include enough revenue to cover necessary upgrades to the state's ailing transportation system.
"In its current form, I'm not going to accept this bill,'' he said.
Instead, Patrick urged the Legislature to raise the gas tax at least three more cents beginning in 2017 when the tolls on the western portion of the Massachusetts Turnpike are set to come down leaving what the governor says will be a $135 million revenue hole.
But, even as Patrick was briefing reporters on his amendment to the Legislature's transportation finance bill, state Senate President Therese Murray and House Robert A. DeLeo rejected his proposal.
In a statement, the two legislative leaders called Patrick's amendment "too high a burden on the taxpayers of our state.''
"This threatens working families and businesses still fighting to overcome the financial downturn. Therefore, we will ask our respective chambers to reject the administration's proposal,'' they said in a joint statement.
Patrick's amendment is the latest step in a back-and-forth between the governor and the legislature on how to finance longterm transportation infrastructure spending directly tied to the proposed state budget.
Patrick said his amendment will ensure that the millions lost by the expiration of the tolls is replaced.
The version of the proposal approved by the Legislature sets a three-cent-a-gallon increase in the gas tax that goes into effect when the bill becomes law. Beginning in 2015, the gas tax then increases with inflation.
The bill now returns to the Legislature for a vote, likely after the July 4th holiday.


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By Rose Donovan Jul 23, 2013 3
Travels with Reilly
Reilly and I just returned from a family reunion weekend in the Midwest. We almost never travel alone, just the two of us without any other members of our immediate family. It went surprisingly well. And gave me even more reason to cherish my extended family.
My family reunion is an annual event that we all look forward to all year. My husband and children have come to love it as much as I do. It's a good sized family—I'm one of 17 first cousins, and among us we have 24 children. So there's someone for everyone. But this year's turnout was unusually low, for several reasons. My husband and two oldest children weren't able to go. So Reilly and I set off on Thursday alone.
We flew to Chicago, and took the train from O'Hare into the city, proud of ourselves for having navigated an unfamiliar big-city transit system. Reilly was patient and helpful, a mode he stayed in for most of the rest of the trip. I can be a cranky traveler, as my entire family will attest. But Reilly and I had as smooth and stress-free a trip as any I can remember. Well, I did lose my credit card somewhere in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, and we had a little trouble with navigational devices en route from Chicago to Ft. Wayne, but for the most part we both remained calm and collected.
Reilly is a guy who loves connecting with cousins, old and young. He figures he has only missed two family reunions his entire life. Last summer, he insisted on taking a break during the summer program at the New York Institute of Technology to fly to Portland, Ore., for the reunion. One of the reasons he wanted to stay home for the summer this year was so he could be sure he wouldn't miss it. He checked in with various family members on Facebook in the weeks leading up to the reunion to find out who was coming. He told one and all that he couldn't wait to see them. He filled me in on who wasn't coming and why.
And this is where I brag about the family I was born into. They are unfailingly kind and accepting of Reilly, as happy to see him as he is to see them. The reunion is a time when I can completely relax and not worry about judgment or criticism. In fact, I usually don't see much of Reilly during the weekend—he's always going off someplace with cousins he hasn't seen in a year. And I know he's in good company. They have my back. They listen patiently to his often long stories, ignoring vocal tics that can make the telling grueling. They all seem genuinely interested in what he has to say, and then they tell me how great they think he's doing, how much he's progressed since they saw him last year. He feels completely at ease among them.
Reilly and I shared a hotel room relatively peacefully. He got up in the morning without much prodding and showered without much complaining. He was flexible and game for whatever came next. We spent an extra day in Chicago before flying back home, sightseeing amicably, keeping our composure even when we were lost and hot. A cool taxi ride refreshed us and we went to the Navy Pier to ride the giant Ferris wheel, enjoying the skyline views.
On the train ride back to O'Hare, Reilly was already reminiscing. When we got home, he connected with cousins again on Facebook, telling them he hopes to see them again next summer, and nagging the ones who weren't able to make it this year.
While I was giving him a ride to work the next day, he said he looks forward to the time when he and his brother and sister can bring their children to the reunion. To which I can only say, Amen.


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Microsoft Employee Admits That Patent Disclosure Is A Myth
from the and-here-we-go-again dept
Now, Slashdot points us to a Microsoft employee admitting that looking at patents is a total waste because they never actually disclose anything useful:
When using existing libraries, services, tools, and methods from outside Microsoft, we must be respectful of licenses, copyrights, and patents. Generally, you want to carefully research licenses and copyrights (your contact in Legal and Corporate Affairs can help), and never search, view, or speculate about patents. I was confused by this guidance till I wrote and reviewed one of my own patents. The legal claims section -- the only section that counts -- was indecipherable by anyone but a patent attorney. Ignorance is bliss and strongly recommended when it comes to patents.Of course, technically, a patent is supposed to be written so that someone skilled in the art can replicate the invention from the patent alone. But, when even patent holders can't understand their own patents, it's quite clear that reality doesn't match up with the theory here. So, the next time you hear a patent system defender claiming the importance of disclosure, it might be worth pointing out that one of the biggest patent holding companies in the world instructs its own employees to ignore patents, because you can't actually learn anything from them in the first place.


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Sidewalk improvements on South Front Street in New Bern are now complete except for some landscaping.
Sidewalk improvements on South Front Street in New Bern are now complete except for some landscaping.
After four months of work, new hexagonal pavers, bricks, light poles and additional benches now adorn the 200, 300 and 400 blocks of South Front Street.
The work was done to enhance downtown by creating a consistent look to the streetscape along the north and south sides of South Front Street, including paver sidewalks, decorative lighting, trees and benches, according to a city press release.
The project also alleviated several sidewalk hazards and improved lighting along South Front Street. The city�s public works department started the project in April 2013 and finished last week. Additional landscaping is scheduled for the end of the month, the statement said.
Mark Stephens, New Bern�s director of public works, said that while the sidewalks were being renovated the city also made improvements to the infrastructure beneath them.
�Since we had to install equipment for the new light poles anyway, this was an opportunity to also check on the aging water services and make upgrades as necessary,� Stephens said.
Making the upgrades to the infrastructure while the new sidewalks were being installed saved the city about $15,000, Stephens said.
The $515,315 project was paid for by property owners within the Municipal Service District, which stretches from the north side of Broad Street to Hancock Street, and from the west side of Hancock Street to the Neuse and Trent Rivers.
Greg Smith, owner of Mitchell Hardware on Craven Street and chairman of the Downtown Council of the New Bern Area Chamber of Commerce, said he was very pleased with South Front Street�s new look.
�I have not heard a single comment other than how beautiful everything is,� Smith said. �It�s amazing, fun and great.�
Before the work, Smith said, people turned onto South Front Street at the Riverfront Convention Center and found a less attractive first view of historic downtown New Bern.
�Now it is a beautiful street that welcomes everyone to our town,� he said. �The residents are very pleased.�
Smith said he also was pleased at the way the city crews and contractors did the work with very little disruption to traffic, shoppers and summer visitors.
As a downtown property owner, Smith said it felt good to have been a part of the beautification project through the extra taxes paid through the MSD district.
The work included the installation of 11,400 hexagonal pavers, 6,750 bricks, 350 cubic yards of concrete, 24 new light poles, 14 garbage receptacles and eight new benches.
The MSD was created in 1980, when downtown property owners agreed to pay an additional 12 cents of ad valorem tax to fund improvements to downtown. The MSD partnered with the city to execute the streetscape project.
Eddie Fitzgerald can be reached at 252-635-5675 or at firstname.lastname@example.com. Follow him on Twitter @staffwriter3.


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One of our favorite times of the year is Halloween and we are now gearing up with fun Halloween craft projects and new fun Halloween foods and costumes. Be sure to check back with us often. Lots of fun to come!
Wonder what to do with discarded Creamer containers? Well, here you go! This super cute Halloween Cat candy container can be used to hold your Halloween candy corn and other candies. And how perfect for a special Halloween-themed gift. Make this Black Cat and fill with mini candies for your friends and relatives. Super easy to make.
Sharon Pierce McCullough
Items needed:
Sharon Pierce McCullough


text:
How coffee drops leave rings when they dry, blood vessel formation related to cancer treatment and mind gamers in school are just some of the diverse presentations scheduled at Rochester Institute of Technology's Undergraduate Research Symposium, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 2 at the RIT Inn & Conference Center, 5257 W. Henrietta Road, Henrietta.
This is the 22nd year for the symposium, which is free and open to the public. Nearly 160 presentations are planned.
"We look forward to this each year because it showcases research and creative projects undertaken by undergraduates across all areas of research at RIT," says Mike Dwyer, director of Research Relations at RIT.
Poster viewings will be held between the speakers, lunch and workshop sessions about Biomedical and Life Sciences; Energy and Sustainability; Chemistry and Material Science; Modeling and Simulations; Imaging and Optics; and Social Sciences and Humanities.
Two keynote speakers are expected: Rohit Amarnath '96, founder and Chief Elastic Ninja of Full 360 Inc. in New York City, and Nicholas Schneider '10, currently a Ph.D. mechanical engineering candidate at the University of Pennsylvania.
Registration is available at the door.
For more information, go to www.rit.edu/research/symposium.


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Mr. John Barnes, Mr. Hugh Greene, Ms. Wanyonyi Kendrick, Dr. Bruce Taylor, Mr. Kevin Twomey
Ms. Joannie Newton
With a quorum of committee members present, Chair Twomey called the meeting to order.
Chair Twomey asked for a MOTION to accept the minutes for the June 17, 2008 meeting. The MOTION was offered and seconded. The minutes were accepted as presented.
There were no comments from the public.
Chair Twomey asked Vice President Gonzalez to present this item.
Vice President Gonzalez stated that the University was proposing an average of 6.02 percent increase in housing rental rates and supplemental charges for 2009-2010. He discussed the history of housing rates and noted that this year's proposed increase was slightly more than previous years; however, the average increase from 1985 to the present was 6.06 percent.
Vice President Gonzalez talked about variables that influenced the proposed increase, including utilities and maintenance materials. He also noted that the University was anticipating significant capital improvements to existing property to ensure competitiveness with outside markets.
Vice President Gonzalez updated trustees on Osprey Fountains, stating that this development would be opening fall 2009, with rental rates based on current market studies.
Trustees asked for clarification on the date when the increase would become effective. The administration clarified that these rates would become effective fall 2009.
Trustees also asked for clarification on campus housing occupancy projections, taking into account the local market. Vice President Shuman responded that on-campus housing was competitive with local markets. She noted that Osprey Fountains would rent for more than was listed in the pro-forma because of the decrease in freshman enrollment. Further conversation clarified that the administration was following outside markets and would be monitoring future occupancy projections.
Trustee Barnes acknowledged that Student Government had reviewed the proposed increase and understood the position of the University. He noted that Student Government had some questions regarding Osprey Village but believed the proposed rates were fair for students.
Chair Twomey asked for a MOTION to approve the housing rental rates for 2009-2010. The MOTION was offered, seconded and approved as presented.
Chair Twomey asked Vice President Shuman to discuss this item.
Vice President Shuman stated that approval of these proposed regulations would put the University in conformity with the Board of Governor (BOG) newest purchasing regulations. She stated that this action also responded to the most recent operational audit which noted that the University should ensure that its procurement policies were consistent with BOG regulations. She clarified that the BOG had approved regulations setting the competitive solicitation threshold at $75,000 but these newly proposed regulations would establish a threshold not greater than $50,000.
Chair Twomey asked for a MOTION to approve the newly proposed purchasing regulations. The MOTION was offered, seconded and approved as presented.
Chair Twomey asked Vice President Shuman to speak about this item.
Vice President Shuman told the Committee that this rule (regulation) was being presented for repeal and would be replaced with the newly proposed regulations referenced in Item 6, immediately upon approval by the full Board.
Chair Twomey asked for a MOTION to approve the repeal of the Administration and Finance Purchasing Program rule. The MOTION was offered, seconded and approved as presented.
Vice President Shuman stated that the University was requesting permission to submit a supplemental Educational Plant Survey which addressed changes in the construction and building program. She outlined the proposed amendments as (a) removing the remodeling of Building 3, (b) adding Alumni Hall, and (c) adding the Disability Resource Center.
Chair Twomey asked for a MOTION to approve the supplemental Educational Plant Survey. The MOTION was offered, seconded and approved unanimously.
Chair Twomey asked Vice President Shuman to speak about the three direct service organizations' audits.
Vice President Shuman stated that each year the Board was charged with review and oversight for audits conducted on UNF's direct service organizations (DSO). She noted that this year all three DSO's received one management comment. She clarified that comment as a need for enhanced procedures for review of bank statements and canceled checks. Vice President Shuman reported that the comment was amended.
Vice President Shuman spoke about the TSI audit, stating that the economy had affected revenues received. She noted that police departments across the State were working with limited budgets which affected income for the Institute of Police Technology and Management. Vice President Shuman clarified that TSI had funded the library and social science building, and earmarked funds for the Student Union and the Brooks College of Health. These expenditures affected interest income.
Vice President Shuman stated that, with the exception of the one management comment, this was a clean audit. She clarified that the audit was reviewed and approved by the TSI board.
This item was for review only.
Vice President Shuman reported that as of June 30, the endowment was at $95 million, an increase of $10 million from the previous report. She noted that the Foundation contributed $1.5 million toward the purchase of Alumni Hall.
Vice President Shuman stated that, with the exception of the one management comment listed in Item 8, this was a clean audit. She clarified that the audit was reviewed and approved by the Foundation board.
Vice President Shuman reported on the financial highlights from the UNFFC's audit, including accepting the assignment of the Parking System Capital Improvement Revenue Bonds from the UNF Foundation. She noted that most transactions were non-operating and non-cash.
Vice President Shuman stated that, with the exception of the one management comment listed in Item 8, this was a clean audit. She clarified that the audit was reviewed and approved by the UNFFC board.
Chair Twomey asked Mr. Robert Berry, Interim Director of Internal Auditing, to present this item.
Mr. Berry stated that he would be presenting an annual report for activities undertaken by the OIA for 2007-2008. He referenced the executive summary provided in the meeting materials, noting that allocations were made for a significant amount of administrative hours to redefine the internal process. He clarified that the intent of this allocation was to evaluate current processes and adjust for standards mandated by various governing and professional bodies.
Mr. Berry referenced discussions from previous Finance and Audit Committee meetings addressing the expected level of performance from the OIA. He spoke about a benchmarking study conducted by the Institute of Internal Auditors and the Association of Colleges and University Auditors, noting that this study included over 1,000 audit functions. Mr. Berry indicated that, based on the current staff level and this study, the average number of audits that should be completed yearly by UNF was 5 to 7.
Mr. Berry discussed the use of a risk assessment methodology which was new to UNF. He clarified that this methodology would allow the University to be aware of risk areas.
Trustees asked if there were adequate resources available. Trustees also asked if there was an awareness of areas of risk that were not receiving proper attention. Mr. Berry responded that there were certain areas that the University might not have adequate resources to cover but clarified that work was underway to provide coverage to those areas.
Trustees asked specifically about coverage for technology and noted that the risk potential for this area was significant. Trustees asked the University to ensure that the expertise and resources were available to monitor technology carefully. The administration responded that the University was fortunate in that Mr. Berry was a Certified Information System Auditor which demonstrated technology expertise. The administration agreed to make sure resources would be available to monitor this area.
Chair Twomey asked Mr. Berry to report on this item.
Mr. Berry stated that the purpose of this item was to present the proposed 2008-2009 Office of Internal Auditing Audit Plan. He explained how the University determined areas of risk and noted that this plan adhered to that methodology.
Mr. Berry referenced the meeting materials, (Attachment 12, 1 of 2, page 9) noting that information was provided regarding risk statistics and reporting, including distribution by area, assessment methodology and rating. He spoke about the benchmark study done by the Institute of Internal Auditors, stating that it was important to note that this was the first time for this process for UNF.
Mr. Berry referenced the meeting materials, (Attachment 12, 1 of 2, page 11) and discussed resource allocation by risk area. In this discussion he clarified that, along with the administration, risk areas would be decided and hours allocated.
The discussion continued, focusing on Attachment 12, 1 of 2, page 11, Figure 3. It was noted that, out of the 165 items included in the audit plan, there were 67 in the high risk rating. Trustees stated that the administration needed to provide further delineation on these items, including the State Auditor General's role.
Trustees finalized this discussion, stating that there was a real interest in a higher level of audits. Trustees stated that this was a good plan with the recognition that the University needed to add resources to the Office of Internal Auditing.
Chair Twomey asked for a MOTION to approve the 2008-2009 Audit Plan for the Office of Internal Auditing. The MOTION was offered, seconded and approved as presented.
Vice President Shuman stated that Florida Statutes authorized the University's Board of Trustees to settle uncollectible accounts. She noted that the Board delegated the authority for accounts receivable write-offs under $10,000 to the President.
Vice President Shuman clarified that all write-offs for the period ending June 30, 2008 conformed to this guideline. She mentioned that the total write-offs for this period were $260,164.19, which was about the same as during the previous reporting period.
This item was for information and oversight only. No further action was required.
Vice President Shuman discussed UNF's latest exposure to the equities markets, stating that it was not significant. She provided details on portfolio diversity, noting that bidding was in process for an additional Request for Proposal (RFP).
Vice President Shuman updated trustees on the two new money managers, RBC Centura Bank and Public Financial Management (PFM), noting that each received $20 million. She discussed additional investments, including Sawgrass and the State Board of Administration (SBA). She clarified that Sawgrass investments were decreased and the SBA Fund B was now at $2.2 million.
Vice President Shuman noted that, in benchmarking back to SPIA, Sawgrass was the longest term and did supersede SPIA, while the others were less. She stated that the University would continue to monitor this.
Vice President Shuman provided an update on debt, including housing and Student Union bonds. She stated that a switch was made to active management to help with debt service for these bonds. She clarified that two bond issues were fixed and the University was looking for a new remarketer for the parking bond debt. She also added that the University had $9.7 million in cash reserves for bonds.
Trustees asked for further information on the SBA Fund B. The administration stated that the University was comfortable that funds would be liquidated from that account possibly by 2010.
This item was for information only.
Chair Twomey asked Mr. Chris Wrenn, Associate General Counsel, to speak about this item.
Mr. Wrenn briefly updated the trustees on the status of the University's lawsuit against the contractors, surety company and architect for the Science and Engineering building. Mr. Wrenn reminded the Committee that the projected repair costs were very significant.
Mr. Wrenn stated that, in an effort to shortcut the litigation, the parties had agreed upon a protocol for a non-binding settlement conference in January, 2009. He indicated that the Board would be updated after that conference.
Vice President Shuman stated that as of June 30th, 95 percent of the total budget was expended, with all divisions reporting below budget. She clarified that the divisions had remaining dollars due to salary savings. She noted that additional savings were generated from the controlled spending process.
Vice President Shuman updated the Committee on auxiliary cash balance, noting that these monies were not fully expended. She clarified that these funds were committed and would be spent down.
President Delaney provided an update to trustees regarding the possibility of upcoming budget reductions. He commented on the national and state economy and the subsequent affect to the State University System (SUS). He clarified that UNF had prepared for a 4 percent reduction in the recently approved budget, but there were anticipated additional cuts for the upcoming budget year of about 5 to 7 percent.
President Delaney discussed how the University had accommodated previous budget shortfalls, including a rollback in freshman enrollment and transfer students. He discussed the impact of the rollback, including reduced revenue from auxiliaries and possible housing vacancies. President Delaney stated that pay raises were a significant priority for the upcoming budget year and the University was waiting to see revenue projections in October.
Vice President Shuman provided information regarding the University's capacity to deal with the possibility of additional budget shortfalls. She stated that the total E&G budget was about $127 million. She provided data on the implications of possible budget cuts of 14, 10 and 6 percent, listing the lost revenues for each percentage. Vice President Shuman noted that lottery enhancements were omitted because the University wasn't sure these funds would be available. She summarized this discussion, noting that the University had already set aside $3 million, and including other reserves available, additional cuts could be between $4.6 million and $7.8 million.
President Delaney provided an update on the Jacksonville Commitment, stating that this initiative was pending approval from the City Council, which appeared favorable. He talked about the upcoming NCAA peer review and noted that it was anticipated that the certification would be approved. President Delaney briefly discussed the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) reaccreditation process, stating that onsite review would occur in February.
President Delaney updated trustees on construction projects underway. He spoke about student housing, the Student Union and the College of Education and Human Services, clarifying that all were on schedule and within budget.
A brief discussion ensued regarding a proposal to create a relationship between UNF and the Jacksonville Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA). President Delaney stated that the University would be cognizant of the current budget situation when considering this proposal.
Chair Twomey defined the UNF Financing Corporation's (UNFFC) relationship with the University. He clarified that the UNFFC borrowed money to provide funding for buildings, etc. The UNFFC used rental income to pay off housing bonds. The only purpose of the UNFFC was to complement the University.
Chair Twomey stated that consideration needed to be given to hiring a manager for the UNFFC or delegating this responsibility to the University. He clarified that, upon deciding to delegate this responsibility to the University, a slight modification would need to occur in the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the UNFFC and the Board of Trustees. Chair Twomey provided trustees with a copy of the MOU, including the proposed modification and stated that this would be presented to the full Board for consideration at the next meeting.
Chair Twomey adjourned the meeting.
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text:
White Papers and Application Notes
Modeling Energy Harvesting From Membrane Vibrations in COMSOLR.K. Kapania, R.C. Singh, and C. Sultan
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
This paper presents an ongoing effort, motivated by developing self-contained sensors for structural health monitoring of inflatable structures, to model the process of extracting useable electrical power from the mechanical vibrations of thin, prestressed membrane structures. Energy harvesting from mechanical vibrations of these structures may provide enough power to operate both the sensors as well as wireless devices used to transmit data to a remote data collection device. COMSOL Multiphysics is used to estimate the response of a piezoelectric patch placed onto a thin-film membrane to induced vibrations. The model incorporates both the piezoelectric and purely structural responses. As this system involves the conversion of mechanical strain energy into electrical power, the piezo patch is modeled as a generator. By comparing the numerical estimate of the power harvested to an analytical equation in terms of the Rayleigh coefficients, the damped behavior of the system due to the equivalent load resistance is found via a time-dependent analysis in COMSOL.


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Gwyneth's Congrats game
Posted 05 September 2010 - 04:56 PM
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
A year later he proposes to you. Where do you marry?
1) Local church
2) Beach
3) Las Vegas
4) Grand hotel
5) Registry office
6) In a friends garden
On your honeymoon you begin to feel sick, and take a pregnancy test to be sure. Guess what, you're pregnant. And it's twins... You are excited but also worried, how will you afford to have 3 kids. You decide to keep them though.
1) Boy/Girl
2) Boy/Boy
3) Boy/Girl
4) Girl/Girl
5) Girl/Girl
6) Boy/Boy
[url="http://<a%20href="http://www.babycenter.com/0_baby-names-inspired-by-shakespeare_10305364.bc"%20target="_blank">http://www.babycente....bc</a>"]First Names[/url]
Middle names
What colour eyes do they have? (Roll twice)
Odd Mum's
Even Dad's
What colour hair do they have? (Roll twice)
Odd Mum's
Even Dad's
Posted 05 September 2010 - 06:58 PM
-Dark brown hair and grey eyes
Nathaniel Seamus O'Connor (24)
-Blond hair and green eyes
DD: Joy Elizabeth Archibald (4)
-Dark brown hair and grey eyes
DS/DD: Lance Aeden O'Connor / Juliet Anne O'Connor (nb)
-Drak brown hair and green eyes
-Dark brown hair and grey eyes
On our 1st year anniversary, Nate proposed. We decided to get married two months later, at the registry office, bacuse we couldn't afford a big wedding. It was very intimate and romantic. Just the two of us, a couple of friends and joy. We went to the beach for a week for our honeymoon; joy stayed with my friend at the cafe. Just before coming back, I started to feel very sick and went to the doctor. I was pregnant! My doctor confirmed it, and added that I am expecting twins! Nate and I are very excited, but we also know that it will be hard to have 3 kids.
After a pretty smooth pregnancy, I delivered a boy and a girl! Joy is very happy and excited to have two siblings, but she doesn't quite understand what is going on yet.
Posted 05 September 2010 - 07:06 PM
December of my senior year I found out I was pregnant. I couldn't bear to tell John or my family so I ran away to New York City. I made friends with a woman there and ending up staying in her little cafe. In August I had the baby, a little boy. I named him Aaron John. He has his daddy's red hair and my blue eyes.
Aaron is 2 now. He is happy and healthy. I am still staying with my friend and working long hours in her cafe. One day when I was at the library with Aaron I started chatting with one of the librarians, Mark Killian Kennedy. He so nice and so cute. He has black hair and brown eyes.
A year later Mark proposed and a few months later we got married at a local church. Nine months later I gave birth to twins. Julia Alexis was born first and has blonde hair and blue eyes just like me. Two minutes later Olivia Bridget was born, she has her daddy's black hair and my blue eyes.
Posted 05 September 2010 - 10:15 PM
I ran away to New York. I found out I'm pregnant. I met this woman at a cafe there. She really understands me. A few months later I delivered a healthy baby boy! His name is Caleb Matthew Michaels. He has his daddy's green eyes and my blonde hair.
I was at a nightclub a few months ago and met Joseph 'Joey' Finn Hutchins. He's really nice and we got serious really fast:D He is a teacher and has hazel eyes and dark brown hair.
Joey proposed to me 2 years later! We got married at the Grand Hotel! At our honeymoon I started feeling sick and took a pregnancy test. I found out it was positive and I was having twins. 9 mos. later my twin boys, Brendan Anthony and Gabriel 'Gabe' John.
The Michaels-Hutchins Family
Posted 06 September 2010 - 07:28 PM
Lily Katherine Jenkins
22 Years Old
Grey Eyes and Black Hair
Nicholas Joseph Garfield
23 Years Old
Blue Eyes and Blonde Hair
Benjamin Declan Finn
23 Years Old
Grey Eyes and Light Brown Hair
Met at the Library; Works as a Teacher
Aaron Joseph Garfield
4 Years Old
Grey Eyes and Blonde Hair
Elizabeth Faith Finn
0 Years Old
Grey Eyes and Light Brown Hair
Alexander Dominic Finn
0 Years Old
Grey Eyes and Light Brown Hair
Posted 07 September 2010 - 10:51 PM
In December of my senior year of highschool, I find out I am pregnant. This comes as a massive shock to me and unable to tell my family or Arthur, I run away to New York, where I meet a lady. She allows me to stay in her small cafe. Nine months later, I give birth to a baby boy who I name Caleb Joel. He has my red hair and green eyes.
Two years after little Caleb was born and I am still living in the same cafe in the spare room with Caleb. I still think a lot about my family, but I know it is best that I don't see them ever again. Out of the blue, as I was taking Caleb for a walk, a young, goodlooking man came into the cafe. His name is Charles Duff Masters. He is a teacher at a local school, with hazel eyes and black hair. The two of us become serious very quickly.
A year later, Charlie proposes to me and we marry in a Grand Hotel. On 0our honeymoon and I begin to feel sick. To be sure, I take a pregnancy test and find out I am pregnant. I later discover I am having twins!! Of course, I am excited, but scared at the same time. How can I afford three kids? I give birth to Miles Bruno & Caroline Clare. Both of the twins have my red hair and green eyes.
Posted 09 September 2010 - 08:07 AM
Matthew Ian Baker *Hewie* (green, dark brown)
Bliss Naomi McCormick Baker-Millay (blue and light brown)
A year later he proposes to you. Where do you marry?
2) Beach
On your honeymoon you begin to feel sick, and take a pregnancy test to be sure. Guess what, you're pregnant. And it's twins... You are excited but also worried, how will you afford to have 3 kids. You decide to keep them though.
1) Boy/Girl Caius Finbarr *Cai* / Imogen Faith *Ginny* (light brown, green)
Posted 09 September 2010 - 01:49 PM
Hello, My name is...
Iris Elizabeth Montgomery (nee Dorset)
I'm married to...
Jack Cormac Montgomery
December of my senior year in highschool I found out I was pregnant. It was a massive shock, and I couldn't bear to tell the father or my parents. I decide to run away to New York City, and make friends with a woman there and live with her in her little cafe. Nine months later I give birth a beautiful baby girl, Honor Marie Dorset. Two years later while working in my friends cafe, I met my husband. We began dating and a year later were married. On our honeymoon I was feeling sick and took a pregnancy test. And Surprise it was TWINS!!!
Honor Marie Dorset (3)
Sebastian William & Peter Thomas Montgomery
They both have my brown hair and grey eyes.
Posted 09 September 2010 - 04:52 PM
Sure enough I was pregnant. We ended up having twin boys named, Alexander Michael (Alex) and William Daniel (Liam). They both have my hazel eyes and their dad's black hair.
LN: Hayes
DH: Nathaniel Finn (blue eyes, black hair)
DW: Lily Caroline (hazel eyes, light brown hair)
DS: Levi Matthew Jones (hazel eyes, black hair)
DS/DS: Alexander Michael (Alex) / William Daniel (Liam) (hazel eyes, black hair)
Nathaneiel and Lily with; Levi, Alex and Liam.
Posted 11 September 2010 - 01:02 PM
_ _ _ _ _
In December of my senior year, I found out I was pregnant. I didn't expect it, I didn't know what to think.. I couldn't bare to disappoint my family.. or have my boyfriend leave me. So I left first. I ran away to New York City and tried to find my way. I made some amazing friends. There was one lady called Margaret who helped me out a heck of a lot! She let me stay with her in her apartment over her coffee place and I helped out. 9 months went by, and I gave birth to my first baby girl. I named her Noelle 'Elle' Joy after her dad, and the fact that she gave me so much happiness, despite her timing!
_ _ _ _ _
When Elle was 2, we were still living in Marg's apartment. It was getting tight, but she refused to let us leave! I was working long hours in the cafe and sleeping in my spare time. I kept thinking about my family. How they were doing? If they missed me? If they even realised I was gone.. but I knew I couldn't go back there.
Out of the blue, one of the most handsome guys I'd ever laid eyes on came in to work one day. I served him, but we didn't talk.. I met him again at a friend's cafe when I took Elle out for a treat. His name, I found out after a few minutes, was Adam Finn Mullen.We got to talking, as I'd dropped Ellie's bag on the floor, but couldn't pick it up, since I was holding too much! So he picked it up for me! He was 23 and by then, I was 20! Adam was working as a journalist for one of the local papers in NY city, so he spent most of his time writing in coffee places! We started going out soon after and we've now been pretty serious for a while!
_ _ _ _ _
After a year of dating, Adam proposed! So because money was tight, we got married at the registry office in our town. Marg helped us with the reception and let us have it in the cafe! It was perfect! Ellie was our little bridesmaid and she loved it. Being three, she needed a lot of entertaining, but our friends from work helped us out with that! Our honeymoon consisted of driving down to Ellenton, Georgia to visit Adam's parents and cousins. During our stay, I started feeling really unwell. I got all the symptoms I did with Ellie so I started to panic. I talked to Adam and he said we should take a pregnancy test. It turned out positive and as soon as we got home from vacation we went straight to the doctor. 2 months went by and I was growing much quicker than I should've done. Although it was my second pregnancy, I knew something was wrong.. after a few tests and an early U/S, we found out we were in fact carrying TWO babies! I was already worried about having one more mouth to feed.. Ellie was only 3 and I was barely 21! But we knew we could manage. Adam worked more hours while I kept working until as long as I could. Between us and some help from Adam's parents down in Georgia, we managed to make things work. A few weeks after Ellie turned 4, when I was 22 and Adam 25, I gave birth to our two beautiful babies; Katherine 'Katy' Margaret and Joseph 'Joey' Gabriel.
(Extra info)
Rose - Blue eyes, Dark red hair.
Adrian - Hazel eyes, Dark brown hair.
Noelle - Blue eyes, Dark brown hair.
Adam - Green eyes, Blonde hair.
Katherine - Green eyes, Dark brown hair.
Joseph - Green eyes, Blonde hair.
Posted 11 September 2010 - 04:16 PM
Magnolia Charlotte Higgins Maggie
Age: 17
Eyes: Green
Hair: Black
William Noel Gaddy Will
Age: 17
Eyes: Grey
Hair: Black
North Carolina
I just had a baby GIRL named Elizabeth Noelle Libby
Elizabeth Noelle Gaddy Libby
Eyes: Grey
Hair: Black
New Guy:
Nathan Finn Medford
Met: At a party.
Job: Policeman
Eyes: Green
Hair: Black
We were married in Las Vegas. Right after I found out I was pregnant with boy/girl twins.
Gabriel Alexander Gabe
Eyes: Grey
Hair: Black
Juliet Isabel Julie
Eyes: Green
Hair: Black
Posted 12 September 2010 - 02:17 PM
In december of my senior year, I found out that I was pregnant. I just couldn't bear the thought of facing my parents, or Will, so I ran away to New York city. When I got there I met Kerry, who was really nice to me, and let me stay with her in her cafe. I helped her out, serving customers and stuff, and she helped me cope with the pregnancy. One day while I was serving in the cafe, I started to get contractions, so Kerry drove me to hospital to welcome my baby. Ruth Heaven has my blonde hair and green eyes, and is absolutely gorgeous.
Ruthie is now two, and even though I am still living in Kerry's flat, we are getting somewhere. I am working long hours at the cafe to try and earn some money, and Ruthie and I share Kerry's spare room. Work is tiring, and I often think about my family, but I never want to see them again. I met the most handsome man at a party one night. I accidentally spilled my drink on him, even though I wasn't drunk. He is so gorgeous. He's called Daniel Eamon Finnegan, and he has light brown hair and the most amazing green eyes. He's a teacher, and he loves kids. I haven't introduced him to Ruthie yet, but I might soon. We seem to be going pretty fast, and I'm not sure whether I like that or not. He's certainly my type though, and I would definately love to spend my life with him, but I'm not sure if he's really as commited as me, but we'll see.
A year after Dan and I met he proposed. We got married in our friend's rose garden, and honeymooned in romantic Paris. I began to feel sick on the honeymoon though, and took a pregnancy test just to be sure. It was positive, and at the first scan we found out that it was twins. Dan and I were so excited, but worried about how we would cope. We finally decided to keep the babies, especially as it would be good for Ruthie to have someone to play with, she's three now, and so cute. We welcomed twin boys Caius Lloyd *Cai*/Joseph Paul *Jo-Jo*. Both of the boys are miniature Dans; they have his light brown hair and green eyes. Ruthie loves her little brothers, and she also loves her 'Daddy'. Dan and I couldn't be more happy with our little family right now.
The Finnegan-Woods family:
Jas and Dan with Ruthie, Cai and Jo-Jo
Posted 12 September 2010 - 03:25 PM
Its December of my senior year and I just discovered I'm pregnant. I cant even think about telling my parents or my boyfriend. I decide the only thing I can do right now is leave. I take a train to New York and try to decide whats best for me and my baby. While I'm in New York I meet a lady that was also pregnant when she was a teenager. She understands what I'm going through and invites me to stay at her house. Nine months later I give birth to Abigail Grace. She has brown eyes and blonde hair.
Its been 2 years and Abby is growing up so fast! Its been hard but everything is turning out fine. The other day I met a wonderful man while I was working at the cafe. His name is Nathan Malachy Varacalli. He has brown eyes and light brown hair. He has a job as a journalist.
A year after dating, Nathan proposed to me at the beach! While on our honeymoon I began feeling sick. I took a pregnancy test just to see and we discovered I'm pregnant with twins! We're very excited but also worried that we might not be able to afford 3 children. We'll do the best we can though. Abby is so excited to be getting 2 little sisters. The girls were born just a week ago and we named them Alexas Isabel and Audrey Juiliana. They both have brown eyes and light brown hair.
Posted 15 September 2010 - 07:32 AM
In December of my senior year I found out I was pregnant, I was shocked, and I could not bear to tell my parents or Christian, so I ran away to new York City, where I met a wonderful lady who owns a little cafe I moved in with her there and then Aidan Jack was born, he has black hair and blue eyes like me!
Two years pass and Aidan is doing wonderful, we still live in my friends apartment in her spare room, I work in the cafe. I often wonder how my family is, but I know I can't see them again. Then one day out of the blue I met a very handsome man at the supermarket, his name is Benjamin Cormac Reilly, he has Red hair and green eyes, and is a teacher.
One year later Ben proposed, and we were married at the registers office. On our honeymoon I started feeling sick and found out I was pregnant again, we were a little shocked to find out it was twins, the idea of 3 kids was a little scary but we know we will be alright. Nine months later we welcomed Nicholas Alexander*Cole* , and Isabella Catherine* Bella-Cate*, Cole and Bella-Cate both have red hair and Green eyes like Ben!
Posted 16 September 2010 - 11:45 PM
Magnolia Katherine Smith Maguire
Black Eyes
Light Brown Hair
Luke Eamon Maguire
Brown Eyes
Red Hair
Met at the library
Married, on the beach, after a year of dating
DS: Christian Matthew Smith (4)
Black Eyes
Light Brown Hair
DS: Griffith Killian Maguire (NB)
Brown Eyes
Red Hair
DD: Elizabeth Clare Maguire (NB)
Brown Eyes
Red Hair
Stephen Gabriel Phillips
Black Eyes
Light Brown Hair
North Carolina
Luke and Maggie Maguire; Christian, Griffith and Ella
Posted 18 September 2010 - 09:41 PM
DG: Alyssa Kathryn Saunders-Genereaux 20 *Grey eyes, Blonde hair*
DM: Christopher Aiden Saunders 24 (Chris) *Policeman*Green eyes, Black hair*
1st birth: DS: Noah Joseph Odelle 3 *Brown eyes, light brown hair*
2nd birth: DD/DD: Alexis Faith Saunders (Lexi) / Olivia Justina Saunders NB *Green eyes, Black hair*
Alyssa & Chris were married at a local church
On your honeymoon you begin to feel sick, and take a pregnancy test to be sure. Guess what, you're pregnant. And it's twins... You are excited but also worried, how will you afford to have 3 kids. You decide to keep them though.
Posted 03 October 2010 - 10:29 PM
It's been a year and since then Matt's proposed to me. We got married in a friends garden where Abby and Grace were our flower girls. Whilest on our honeymoon I was nauseous. Matt thought I should take a pregnancy test just to be safe. As life has it, we were expecting. Two weeks later at the doctors we found out we were expecting twins! The girls were ecstatic and so were we. They were even more excited to hear it was twin girls. Although I was worried about having four children, Matt was there to help. He's one of seven children, so four wasn't a very big number to him. 32 weeks later we welcomed Alice Morgan and Juliet Elizabeth to our family. They are identical twins and both have Matt's dirty blonde hair and green eyes.
Alice and Juliet
Posted 04 October 2010 - 02:53 PM
The end of first semester of my senior year didn't turn out quite like I expected. I find out I'm pregnant and there's no way I can tell my family or Nick, so I run off to New York City. There I meet a very friendly woman, Annah. She owns a small cafe' and let's me live with her in the room above it and has even hired me to work in the cafe'. On September 18 I deliver my first child, a baby girl, Elizabeth Ruth Anderson. She looks so much like Nick with her black hair and grey eyes.
Ruthie is two now and growing so fast. We are still staying with Annah in her spare room. Annah's got me working off my rent at the cafe' and has me busting my butt EVERYDAY from open to close. With all the stress from work I can't help but think about my family and how all of them are doing, but I never wanna see them again. To get my mind off everything Annah's mom, Nanny Lucy, offers to babysit Ruthie. Annah and I decide to go out. We end up going to a nightclub. While we're sitting at the bar the most handsome guy comes walking up. He was a banker named Nathan Luke Sanders. He had black hair and hazel eyes. He was so sexy. We hit it off great, and becoming very serious very quick.
Nate, Ruthie, and I have moved in together and begin a life of or own. One our one year anniversary Nate proposes to me and we didn't want to waste anytime so we marry at the registry office. While on our honeymoon I begin to get nauseous, so I take a pregnancy test, and what do ya know?? I'm pregnant! Few weeks later we find out its twins. We're both excited and so is little Ruthie, but how are we going to afford to have three kids. Twenty weeks into my pregnancy we find out that we're having a boy and a girl. Then July came around and we welcomed Audrey Juliet and Aedan Miles Sanders into our family. They both were born with a head full of black hair, but Audrey has her daddy's hazel eyes and Aedan has my brown eyes. After Audrey and Aedan were born, Nate decided he wanted to adopt Ruthie and I was all for it. So Ruthie became Elizabeth Ruth Sanders.
One Big Happy Family.
Nate and Jasmine Sanders w/
Ruthie, Audrey, & Aedan.
Posted 07 October 2010 - 04:37 PM
My name is Dahlia Charlotte Mason and I am 17 years of age. I have light brown hair and hazel eyes. My amazing boyfriend, Adrian Gabriel Hampton is also seventeen and he has blue eyes and auburn hair. We both live in Vermont and met on the ski hill. We both go to a prestigious private school and are making good grades. My parents despise him and so we have been secretly dating for several months.
In December of my senior year I took a home pregnancy test and discovered shockingly that I was expecting. I couldn't tell my parents, it would be to dissapointing for them after eighteen years of me being their baby girl. I also couldn't bear to tell Adrian, he wouldn't stay with me, I just knew it. So, because of my riduculous fear I ran away to New York City. I got a job at a little cafe, became friends with the owner and Britta even rented out one of the apartments above the cafe. Nine months after finding out I was pregnant I gave birth to Abigail Seraphina. She was auburn haired and hazel eyed and soon became the love of my life.
Two years after Abby was born, she was alive and beautiful as ever. However I was still working long shifts and we were sleeping in the tiny half-bedroom apartment upstairs. I had written to my mom and dad to tell them I was safe but they still didn't know about Abby or where I was. Just by chance, on one of my shifts, a handsome young man and I got snowed in at the cafe. Matthew Declan Cornberry was a journalist for a local newspaper and had brown eyes and black wavy hair.
After dating and getting to know each other Matthew proposed to me and Abby. I was in love with him and he was the most important man in my little girl's life. It was January and five months later in a small wedding, we were married in the back garden at Britta's cafe amidst peonies and lillies. It was beautiful and best of all was Abby running up the isle as the flower girl right into Matthew's arms. Our honeymoon in the Hamptons was blissful and we were even able to leave Abby with Britta who was practising for when she gave birth to the baby she was carrying. Half way through the honeymoon however I got sick. Turns out it was all good news as I was pregnant with two of Matthew's children. We were scared of raising three kids at such a young age but we faced it.
Eight months later after a day of labour Matthew and I welcomed Adriana Catherine and Emilia Margaret. Adriana has hazel eyes and auburn hair like Daddy and Abby. Emilia has light brown hair and blue eyes.
Posted 21 October 2010 - 03:59 PM
Not long into my senior year (December to be exact) I discover that I'm pregnant, but I'm too terrified to tell Henry or my parents, so I took off to New York and became friends with a woman in her cafe shop. Nine months later, I welcomed Grace Seraphina Johnson-Murray. She had my hazel eyes and her father's beautiful blond hair.
It's been two years, though I still live in my friends apartment with Gracie, I have met a wonderful man named Charles Kieran Murray. We met at our local library. He is an artist with gorgeous green eyes and light brown hair.
A year later Charlie proposed to me in my friend's garden. On the honeymoon a few months later, I discovered I was pregnant and to my shock with twins. We discovered it was two boys, and seven months later we welcomed our boys Alexander William "Alex" and Sebastien Thomas "Seb". They are beautiful, identical twins with their dad's light brown hair and green eyes. Charlie has been such a wonderful father to all of our children, and I have recently added Murray to Gracie's last name.
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Hi, I have created a GUI with a frame, panel, buttons etc etc
I now need to add a JProgressBar. All the examples and tutorials I am finding are for creating a JProgressBar and addding it to the panel, I am happy with what my GUI looks like and dont want to mess around with the layout of it, so would prefer if the JProgressBar component just opens for the time it is needed in a new (almost window type of things) and then closes, is there a way I can do this. Or maybe i am getting confused, does a JProgressBar have to be visible (given a location on the panel) or does it just open like a pop up and then close once finished)??
Sorry for such a long question, I am just confused about JProgressBar


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Tapiture said Wednesday that it has closed $2.25 million in seed funds. JUMP Investors led the round. In conjunction with the funding, Randall Kaplan, co-founder of Akamai Technologies, has joined Tapiture's board of directors. Headquartered in Venice, Calif., Tapiture is a social curation and ecommerce platform.
VENICE, CA (February 12, 2014) – Tapiture, the social curation and e-commerce platform for entertaining, inspiring, and aspirational content, announced today it has completed a $2.25 million seed round from a prominent group of investors, including $1.25 million of new capital following a $1 million convertible note that was raised early last year. Led by JUMP Investors, which is managed by Randall Kaplan, Co-Founder of Akamai Technologies (AKAM), the round will be used to further Tapiture's growth and expand its network of merchant relationships.
"I am very impressed with Tapiture's vision, organic traction, and impressive growth," said Randall Kaplan. "Their member community is heavily engaged and has already purchased over 50,000 products since Tapiture integrated e-commerce into the site less than a year ago. I'm excited about Tapiture's future, and look forward to working with the talented team and investors to build upon the company's recent success."
As part of the investment, Kaplan joined Tapiture's Board of Directors. Additional investors participating in the round include Barry Sternlicht, Herb Simon, Brad Keywell / Lightbank, Brian Lee, Sam Bakhshandehpour, Dave Leyrer / Boulevard Capital, Happy Walters, Hilary Swank, Dwight Howard, and Amar'e Stoudemire.
Tapiture, which now reaches over 3 million monthly unique visitors and generates over 100 million monthly page views, is quickly becoming the place for modern tastemakers to browse, curate, and share the hottest entertaining content and products, ranging from humor to apparel, architecture, interior design, and photography.
"Tapiture's traffic and revenue growth proves that consumers are looking for a new avenue to discover and share unique content – whether related to personal style, art, design, travel, food, or entertainment," said John Ellis, Tapiture's Chief Executive Officer. "This infusion of new capital will allow our team to aggressively pursue our market and merchant expansion efforts as we shape the future of social commerce."
Tapiture gives members an engaging platform to save images, videos, GIFs, and audio from their favorite websites into their Tapiture collections. With these items in their collections, members can share content with followers who have similar interests on the site or post on popular social networks like Facebook and Twitter. In addition to discovering socially shared content, members can also discover and buy curated products from Tapiture's merchant partners.
For a press gallery of images and assets, visit: http://www.tapiture.com/about/press
About Tapiture
Tapiture is a visual discovery and e-commerce platform for entertaining, inspiring, and aspirational content. Tapiture enables anyone to save "tapped" photos, videos, GIFs, and audio from their favorite websites into collections to share with the world. Tapiture also works with merchant partners to curate products, which are available for purchase directly on Tapiture. The platform leverages a user's social and interest graph to provide a highly relevant experience that is both entertaining and engaging. Tapiture is headquartered on the famous Venice Beach boardwalk and stands as a proud member of Silicon Beach's startup community. For more information, visit www.tapiture.com.


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|2006-01-03, 03:41
|Link #62
|2006-01-03, 05:10
|Link #63
Master of The Sword
Join Date: Dec 2005
why should he be on top? It don't really matter.
Yes- but we have yet to see the Full Powers of Koji, Mihawk, Franky, Ace, and vaious others.
ANything we have seen of them was only a small demonstration of what they can do.
A person like Koji doesn't become Admiral, without being Uber powerful. Same with someone of Ace's rank. We have yet to see his FULL power.
|2006-01-03, 22:20
|Link #64
|2006-01-18, 05:20
|Link #67
Master of The Sword
Join Date: Dec 2005
I wouldn't count on that.
I believe, the Likes of Sengoku, Admiral Koji, perhaps the other 2 Admirals, and maybe 1 or more of the remaining Shichbuckai would rank Higher then Mihawk.
Again, i don't deny Mihawk's awesomeness, that Big sexy black sword, in his hands, could do GOd know's what. Although if Mihawk was the 2nd strongest after WB, i'd quite like that.
|2006-01-19, 18:15
|Link #68
Join Date: Nov 2003
Remember, Mihawk said that becomming pirate king is even harder than surpassing him.
I think we are all forgetting Flamingo. He has the power to control a person's movement. The only possible weakness I could see is if he can only control one person, that would leave him open to a group attack.
But one on one, whitebeard wouldn't be able to attack him, mihawk couldn't cut him, and so on. If you don't have control of your body it doesn't matter how strong you are. Case in point, if Miss Goldenweek was vicious, she could have taken Luffy out easily. Paint a color on him that makes him not want to fight or don't care, and beat him.
Until we see someone able to find a way past Flamingo's power, Flamingo is the most dangerous. Maybe not physical power, but he makes such a thing like that meaningless.
...unless flamingo has to see the person to control him.
Recent chapter spoiler (doesn't involve flamingo)
|2006-01-20, 20:58
|Link #69
It looks like Doflamingo uses some kind of invisible string to control his opponents in episode 151 it sounded like he was pulling something. If he has to use hand gestures like that I am guessing he controls people like a puppet.
I still stay with Mihawk being the second strongest behind Whitebeard. That quote that Mihawk says about it is harder trying to become pirate king than surpassing him is still a compliment to Mihawk's awesome abilities. I believe Mihawk will defeat Doflamingo.
|2006-01-20, 23:47
|Link #70
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2005
I would definatly place Sengoku and probably the admirals(atleast Ao kiji) above Mihawk
Afterall, Sengoku is the highest officer in the marines, that's alot like saying he's the "whitebeard" of the marines
Not to mention, the Schihibukai work the the world gov't, but ofcourse if one of them starts to act up, somebody has to be able to put them in there place... and if Sen Goku can't do it, then no one can
So far i can't help but think my top list goes something like... (kinda guessing on part of this list, like the other schibukai and admirals)
Ao kiji
Mihawk (or another Schibukai)
2nd admiral
schibukai (Flamingo most likely)
3rd admiral
Dragon, though we know nothing about him, would probably also make the list... he's probably gonna be a very big character later on... i'm just not sure where to put him...
and then the rest kinda just falling below... grant it though, my opinion starts to get rather iffy toawrds the end of that list
|2006-01-21, 15:29
|Link #71
First of all the Shichibukai and the Marines including Sengoku Buddah are "equal" in power.
Once again just because they work for the world government does not mean that Sengoku Buddah is more superior. We have already seen a couple of the members act on their own accord. Mihawk said it himself, and no one gave him any rebuddle with those words.
Your list seems correct at the start with Whitebeard but it falls off after that. Aokiji is the strongest of out of the three admirals yes but you forget that two characters can defeat him Smoker and Ace!. Smoker himself should be an
Admiral if it were not for his attitiude. That means if Aokiji is defeated being the strongest admiral the other two Admirals won't stand a chance against Smoker and Ace as well.
I am also guessing that Mihawk has Seastone in his sword because the same kind of Material that Crocodile was holding Luffy and the gang with was a black metallic like substance. ( Just a guess and speculation).
Slayerx you have a good argument with Sengoku. I believe he should be high up their. I do agree with you on that matter.
My List looks like this
The rest of the Shichibukai (Jinbei, Doflamingo, Barthalomew Bear)
Three Admirals (Aokiji, Red Dog, Yellow Monkey)
Blackbeard ( Love this character)
|2006-01-29, 19:09
|Link #73
Join Date: Nov 2003
A batter between ace and smoker is meaningless, but ace would have the upper hand over ice...though i guess it could come down to technique and power. Ice age is pretty powerful. I'd bet on Ace to win but wouldn't count Ao Kiji out.
My List
Whitebeard (if Gol D. Rodger was the strongest and he's the only one to match him, it has to be him)
3 Admirals (not a big difference though.)/smoker/ace
It makes sense I think on a stroyline progression viewpoint. The strongest pirate is whitebeard because he was Rogers rival. So any pirates would be under him. The schichibukai and world government are on an equal level, and shanks is on the same level. If he wasn't, it would be a letdown on a storypoint. Shanks has to be at least this strong to make any difference.
You can debate who the strongest is within the schichibukai but unless you see them in action it's meaningless. But the trend is the swordsman is the second strongest of the group. Zoro and Mr. 1 are the two cases in point.
The admirals would be the next. Smoker and Ace, based on a fight with Ao Kiji are right at that level.
Blackbeard and Luffy are still improving, and right with each other.
Last edited by ninraven; 2006-01-29 at 20:01.
|2006-01-29, 21:49
|Link #74
ninraven, Ace and Smoker will defeat Aokiji. Smoker has the ability to allow his smoke to become solid or turn it into some type of gas. Also you forget that Smoker is a much more balanced fighter with Combat skills, Logia ability, and most importantly his Seastone sword gives him a huge advantage. If it were not for Smoker's Attitiude he would probably be an Admiral. I give Smoker the Advantage.
I think we all agree that Whitebeard is the Strongest. The Shichibukai and the Marines including Sengoku are on the same level.
Shanks is a swordsman himself in the past he and Mihawk were rivals when he had two arms. Shanks was considered to have some of the world's top class skills. Shanks and Mihawk are equals.
Blackbeard has the potential to become one of the strongest pirates in all of One Piece. Not only him but his group could be one of the strongest as well. Any individual who can kill some of Whitebeard's subordinates and escape only show's how powerful they are.
|2006-01-30, 14:51
|Link #75
Join Date: Nov 2003
As a solid Ao Kiji could turn Smoker into ice. As a gas, smoker would still have water molecules in the gas. If thats the case, he can still be turned into ice.
The only advantage I see is the seastone staff (i don't think it was a sword was it?).
But still, Ao Kiji can freeze the sea and walk on it. He could freeze the sword with a thick enough layer of ice that the sea stone wouldn't effect him.
I'm not denying that smoker is admiral level, but I don't think he would beat Ao Kiji.
Ace definetly can beat Ao Kiji though.
Another thought though. Wasn't Ace the leader of the second division of the whitebeard pirates? It could be an A and B thing, or it could mean the leader of the first is stronger. And no Whitebeard wouldn't be the leader of the first division, because the whole crew is his. It just seems as if he has a huge crew and it needs to be divided into divisions to keep order and everything.
So that means its possible Ace isn't even the second strongest in his crew with Whitebeard as the first.
|2006-01-31, 04:31
|Link #76
Master of The Sword
Join Date: Dec 2005
How did you figure Ace or Smoker could beat Koji definatly?
I really think, you do not give Koji enough credit. The guy is the greatest power of the Marrines.
We have yet to see his full power.
I do not believe Smoker could take Koji. Devil's fruit ability or not. Koji is at that rank for a reason.
ANd for God sake. Shichbucaki and marines are not equal in Power.
Just cuz Mihawk said it, doesn't make it true.
|2006-01-31, 23:38
|Link #78
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2006
Whitebeard is undisputed since his introduction freaking included the "world's strongest man" under his name...
In 1on1's matchups, I put Donflamingo up on the top because his powers just pwnz
Then the rest of the Marines and Seven warlords
Sengoku can't be that strong since Donflamingo was perfectly willing to pick a fight with him as seen in 151.
|2006-01-31, 23:39
|Link #79
Mihawk is a proven character who always has say so in arguments, no one will argue with him not even Sengoku himself.
|2006-02-01, 18:27
|Link #80
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2006
Sengoku, who scorned at Donflamingo for trying to start a fight, is not gonna start an argument with Mihawk over something so trivia.
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Winterhawks snap Rockets 23-game home-ice winning streak with 5-3 victoryNHL.com @NHLdotcom
Taylor Leier scored twice as the Portland Winterhawks snapped the Kelowna Rockets' 23-game home-ice winning streak on Friday with a 5-3 victory in Western Hockey League action.
The last time Kelowna dropped a game at Prospera Place was back on Oct. 10th, a 6-4 defeat against the Spokane Chiefs. Despite the loss, the Rockets still have the best home-ice record in the WHL at 24-3-0.
Nicolas Petan, Presten Kopeck and Brendan Leipsic also scored for the Winterhawks (44-8-3), who jumped out to a 4-0 lead before Kelowna finally got on the board in the third period, and Ty Rattie had two assists.
Colton Sissons, JT Barnett and Cody Fowlie scored for the Rockets (40-12-4), who scored three straight goals in the third period before Leispic scored into an empty net to secure the victory for Portland.
Winterhawks goalie Mac Carruth made 29 saves for the victory while at the other end Jordon Cooke turned away 29-of-33 shots.
Portland went 1 for 7 on the power play while Kelowna scored once on three chances with the man advantage.
The Winterhawks currently lead the Western Conference with 91 points and the Rockets sit second, seven points behind Portland.
Elsewhere in the WHL, it was: Prince Albert 2, Lethbridge 1 (OT); Saskatoon 4, Swift Current 1; Edmonton 6, Brandon 2; Kootenay 4, Spokane 1; Medicine Hat 4, Moose Jaw 1; Prince George 6, Vancouver 4; Victoria 5, Tri-City 3; Calgary 5, Everett 1 and Red Deer 6, Seattle 3.
At Kelowna, B.C., Leier opened the scoring 2:21 into the first period and Kopeck made it 2-0 for Portland after 20 minutes of play.
Petan added another goal for the Winterhawks early in the second period and Leier's second goal of the game came by way of power play, giving the Winterhawks a 4-0 lead heading into the final period.
Barnett put the Rockets on the board with a power-play goal 6:19 into the third and Fowlie followed him up to make it 4-2 with six minutes to play.
Sissons made it a one-goal game at 18:42, however Leipsic scored into an empty net to secure the victory for Portland.
Raiders 2 Hurricanes 1 (OT)
At Prince Albert, Sask., Josh Morrissey scored with only 14 seconds remaining in overtime and Luke Siemens stopped 42-of-43 shots as the Raiders (31-19-5) edged Lethbridge (25-24-9) for their first win in three outings.
Blades 4 Broncos 1
At Swift Current, Sask., Darren Dietz scored twice and added an assist and Andrey Makarov made 39 saves as Saskatoon (30-21-3) defeated the Broncos (31-21-2) for its seventh win in a row.
Oil Kings 6 Wheat Kings 2
At Brandon, Man., Curtis Lazar scored twice and Dylan Wruck had a goal and two assists as Edmonton (41-11-5) extended its win streak to 11 games by downing the Wheat Kings (20-32-4), who sit last in the Eastern Conference.
Ice 4 Chiefs 1
At Cranbrook, B.C., Mackenzie Skapksi stopped 31 shots and Austin Vetterl had a goal and an assist as Kootenay (25-27-2) defeated Spokane (31-21-2), which has won just three of its last 11 contests.
Tigers 4 Warriors 1
At Medicine Hat, Alta., Miles Koules scored twice and Cam Lanigan stopped 38 shots as the Tigers (26-26-3) downed Moose Jaw (18-28-9), which now trails Medicine Hat by 10 points for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
Cougars 6 Giants 4
At Prince George, B.C., Jari Erricson scored two goals and Caleb Belter had a goal and an assist as the Cougars (17-30-8) came from behind to defeat Vancouver (13-41-0), which has just two wins in its last 11 games.
Royals 5 Americans 3
At Kennewick, Wash., Brandon Magee scored twice and Patrik Polovka stopped 32 shots as Victoria (31-19-4) won its fourth game in a row by defeating the Americans (31-20-3), who lost for the first time in four contests.
Hitmen 5 Silvertips 1
At Everett, Wash., Pavlo Padakin had a goal and two assists and Jake Virtanen scored two goals as Calgary (35-16-4) handed the Silvertips (21-30-5) their sixth straight loss.
Rebels 6 Thunderbirds 3
At Kent, Wash., Rhyse Dieno scored three times and Patrik Bartosak turned away 47-of-50 shots as Red Deer (29-21-6) doubled up Seattle (19-32-5), which is winless in five games.


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"And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to the fathers...." Malachi 4:6
Love, love love if! The title made me laugh out loud!
Shake 'n Bake, baby, Shake 'n Bake! Won't be long and we'll be done!
I appreciate your comments and look forward to reading what you have to say. Thanks for stopping by.