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MPs condemn plan to scrap GCSEs
The government's plan to scrap GCSEs in key subjects in England has been strongly criticised by MPs.
The Education Select Committee voiced concerns about the timetable for change, saying changing "too much, too fast" could threaten exam quality.
The cross-party committee has been examining plans to replace GCSEs with English Baccalaureate certificates.
The government said it was "making major changes to ensure we have world class exams that raise standards".
'Damaged brand'
The committee's report raises doubts about the pace and direction of the shake-up planned for GCSEs.
It said there were so many worries, it should act as a "red light" to the government.
The government says it wants to abolish GCSEs for core subjects and introduce English Baccalaureate certificates from 2015. There will also be only one exam board for each subject.
But the committee said the government had failed to prove such a change was necessary.
It also raised concerns about introducing English Baccalaureate certificates in English, maths and science while still running "discredited" GCSEs for other subjects.
The committee's report said it agreed with many of the plans to overhaul GCSEs - such as moving exams to the end of a course and limiting the culture of excessive resits.
But it rejected the idea that GCSEs were such a "damaged brand" that they needed to be abolished.
The committee also questioned the "coherence" of introducing changes to GCSEs before deciding the accompanying national curriculum.
It called on the government to publish its plans for the secondary curriculum "as soon as possible".
"No sensible reform of assessment can take place without clarity as to what is to be taught. Coherence is not achieved by accident but by design," said Graham Stuart, the committee chairman and Conservative MP.
There are also strong concerns about the speed of so many proposed changes - and the pressures that it will place on the exam system.
The report pointed to the controversy of last summer's English GCSE results as an example of the "turbulence" that could be caused by changes to the exam system.
The timetable was "not merely challenging but so tight that it may risk endangering the quality", it said.
The report said the government should consider Ofqual's recommendation that moving to a single exam board for each subject should be "decoupled" from the overhaul of qualifications.
The MPs urged caution when considering upheavals in exams.
"We recommend that the government takes time for careful consideration and slows down the pace of change," the committee's report concluded.
The report also highlighted the opposition of "stakeholders" in education to the reforms - and the responses from teachers' union reflected this hostility.
The National Union of Teachers' leader, Christine Blower, said the government's position on exam reform was "now surely untenable".
"The education secretary is totally isolated in his view that the English Baccalaureate certificates are a suitable measure to replace GCSEs," she said.
Chris Keates, of the NASUWT teachers union, accused the government of displaying "arrogant disregard for the impact on the lives of young people".
Labour leader Ed Miliband said there was "a groundswell against Michael Gove's plan" because he was "squeezing creativity out of the curriculum".
"Also he's not really focusing on those kids who maybe aren't going to go to university but need high quality vocational qualifications," said Mr Miliband.
'Thorough overhaul'
Dr Mary Bousted, head of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers, said: "This is a devastating critique of the government's policy. Michael Gove will lack any credibility if his response is 'I know best; carry on.'
"The parliamentary committee now joins a long list of those who publicly oppose the plans."
But the Department for Education said the report accepted the need for major improvements.
"We have been clear that the secondary education system is in desperate need of a thorough overhaul - an objective with which the committee agrees," said an education department spokeswoman.
"That why we are making major changes to ensure we have world class exams that raise standards."


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Grove Garden Cottages are ideally situated on the fringes of Middleham just below King Richard's castle. Within 200 yards there are four pubs fine restaurants shops and tea rooms whilst the Blue Lion Inn's restaurant is just 2 miles away and Leyburn (3 miles) boasts several good pubs and takeaways. Poppy's Footprint (ref E4199) is a uniquely romantic retreat. This entirely circular cottage offers a completely secret hideaway in a walled suntrap garden. From its beautifully planted and sensitively lit garden to its smart contemporary interior it is perfect for a relaxing break. The Summer Palace (ref E4198) converted and furnished in contemporary style to a high standard enjoys views over fields and woodland. The Round House (ref E3572) set within the owner's produce garden is sheltered by a high stone wall. It is a delightful cottage with a comfortable interior fitting neatly into its unique shape and faces south looking across the idyllic landscape. Middleham lies amidst the outstanding beauty of Wensleydale. It is the centre of northern horse racing is home to renowned riding stables and you can watch the horses in training on beautiful Penn Hill. Visitors here can enjoy delightful walks from the doorstep. Hawes with its Dales Museum Wensleydale Cheese Creamery Aysgarth Falls and Jervaulx Abbey are a short drive. The Forbidden Corner at Leyburn 3 miles is an extraordinary 4-acre garden containing a labyrinth of tunnels follies and other surprises. All 3 detached properties stand within a few yards of each other in a walled garden and can be booked individually or together to sleep up to 6 guests. Shops and pubs 100 yards
Non Smoking Pub Close By Short Break Easy Walking Access
This property sleeps up to 2.
All on ground floor: Living/dining room/kitchen. 1 double (5ft) bedroom with en-suite shower room and toilet..

subset: commoncrawl


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18 's
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Primary Material: Denim, Blue Jean, Jeans, Embroidery, Crystals, Swarovski, Jean. EVA, Rubber, Teva Mandlyn, Nomad
Size: Size 9
Pattern: Wave
Color: Pink
These are the cutest and most comfortable shoes ever. So many people tell me how much they love them. I have purchased many pair! Thank you so very much.
These are a blessing! So cute. Everybody loves them. I have purchased four pair now! Thank you so much, Karen.
Thank you for your business! If you have any questions or need more information, please contact me using the "Contact this seller" button. I am happy to assist you.
After 2 weeks your items will automatically renewed for another 60 days and $0.23 per item will be added to your billing ledger.
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THURSDAY, July 12, 2012 (HealthDay News) -- Babesiosis -- a parasitic illness spread by ticks -- is posing a serious threat this summer, especially in certain parts of the country, a U.S. government report warns.
Meanwhile, mosquitoes continue to spread the West Nile virus, according to another report in the July 13 issue of the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
Babesiosis, the lesser-known disease, is endemic in the Northeast and upper Midwest, where states reported more than 1,100 cases in 2011, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Of those, 847 were confirmed cases and the rest were probable cases.
The bulk of cases came from seven states: Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York [including New York City], Rhode Island and Wisconsin.
"This is the first time we have collected information about babesiosis cases on a national level," said Dr. Dana Woodhall of the CDC.
Babesiosis can be life-threatening, especially for people without a spleen and for the elderly.
"Most healthy people remain asymptomatic; some people develop nonspecific illness: headache, fever, chills," Woodhall said.
Most people get the disease from the same tick as the one that carries Lyme disease. And like Lyme disease, babesiosis is treatable with antibiotics.
"Babesiosis is a disease transmitted mainly by ticks and there are steps people can take to prevent the disease," Woodhall said.
The best way to protect yourself is to use tick spray, stick to paths when in the woods and check yourself for ticks after being in the woods or tall grass, Woodhall said.
In addition, pets can carry these ticks home, so they should have tick collars or anti-tick lotions.
Babesiosis can also be transmitted through blood transfusions or from mother to child during pregnancy, the CDC noted.
"This is the first year we are able to get the big picture, but since it's the first year there is no way of telling how widespread the disease is or estimate how many cases there actually are," Woodhall said.
It will take several years before the CDC knows whether cases of babesiosis are increasing. "We don't know the trend," she added.
The more well-known West Nile virus is an arbovirus, which are viruses carried by mosquitoes and ticks. Of nearly 900 cases of arboviral disease cases reported to the CDC in 2011, more than 700 were West Nile virus.
"West Nile continues to be the leading cause of arboviral disease in the United States, however, other [arboviruses] do continue to cause sporadic outbreaks," said CDC's Dr. Stephanie Yendell. "We see West Nile throughout the United States."
Another such disease, called La Crosse virus, was the most common cause of arboviral disease in children, according to the CDC.
Reported cases are, however, just the tip of the iceberg, experts say. Because many people contract these arboviruses but have no symptoms or only mild symptoms, most cases are never reported, Yendell noted.
"We estimate there could have been as many as 13,000 to 34,000 cases of West Nile," she said. This estimate is pretty constant from 2008 to 2010.
"There are a number of people who never show symptoms and for many who do get sick, many will have mild symptoms like fever, rash and body ache. Fewer of these cases get reported," Yendell said.
Severe symptoms can include high fever, neck stiffness and even coma. "The mortality rate is about 6 percent for West Nile," she said.
Most cases occur in the late spring, summer and early fall, when ticks and mosquitoes are active, she added.
Because there is no treatment for these viruses, the key is prevention. These measures include repellents, protective clothing, repairing or installing screens, eliminating tall grass and standing water near homes, and community insect-control programs, Yendell said.
Commenting on the reports, Dr. Marc Siegel, an associate professor of medicine and infectious disease expert at NYU Langone Medical Center in New York City, said that "babesiosis is something we physicians have to be aware of."
One of the problems is the symptoms are nonspecific, he added.
"This is not something the general public needs to be worried about, but doctors need to follow it," Siegel said. "It's not an epidemic, but it's increasing because ticks are increasing," he explained.
Siegel stressed that both of these diseases are fairly rare, and people should not be overly concerned because their odds of getting either one are very low.
More information
To learn more about insect-borne diseases, visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.


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Investment is typically seen as a sign of economic strength, as people and financial entities put their money where they believe it can be most productive and profitable. Foreign direct investment (FDI) tracks the amount of money international firms invest in the United States, and a recent report on the matter by the Brookings Institution shows that it's growing in the Ninth District, but not as fast as it is elsewhere in the country.
In 2013, for example, companies invested $1.46 trillion in locations outside their home country, and the United States is the single largest destination of that capital, receiving $193 billion, according to the report. This investment manifests itself in many forms: spreading technology, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and inducing new trade.
It also employs millions of people, which the Brookings report investigated more closely. Among Ninth District states, the trends are somewhat diverging. In five Ninth District states (cumulative), total employment at foreign-owned establishments (FOEs) grew by about 50 percent from 1991 to 2011, and the share of total private employment at FOEs increased as well (see Chart 1). The growth in this share of employment tended to be modest—about one-half of a percentage point—with the exception of North Dakota, whose share of FOE employment tripled over this period, most likely as a result of foreign firms investing resources in (and hiring workers for) the Bakken oil patch.
However, across the board, district states have a lower share of FOE employment than the national average and (with the exception of North Dakota) saw less growth in the share of FOE employment. As a result, most distrct states fell in ranking among their peers in FOE's share of total private employment (see table embedded in Chart 1).
One caveat to FDI trends: Much of this investment is the result of acquisitions or mergers of U.S. companies by international firms. So a considerable amount of the resulting "growth" in FOE employment is a methodological quirk—namely, a shift in the nationality of the parent company. This was particularly the case in North Dakota. Among district states, only Wisconsin was close to the national average in the share of FOE employment growth coming from new openings (see Chart 2).


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You're getting there, Hazel. Yes, wards and dayrooms for single mums and their children, but also wards for unmarried men and unmarried women, and accommodation for married couples. With healthcare, schoolroom and child welfare officers on-site, and daily work either cooking, cleaning, maintaining the settlement, laundry or simple assembly type work for outside firms. The cost would be a fraction of the current costs, and the Settlements, if properly managed, could actually turn a profit from the sale of surplus vegetables, contract work and the like.
Ms Blears believes that cases such as Baby P and Shannon Matthews are rare. But the most dysfunctional families, she says, need round-the-clock support from the State – they should be housed in special centres or given a "muscular social worker" who shadows their every move. "We estimated that each family was costing something like £250,000 a year from public sector interventions that were not changing behaviour. They need a personal worker who helps them to get up in the morning, get breakfast and get the children off to school."
Teenage mothers, could, she thinks, be housed together in residential units rather than in individual council flats. "If you are a young mum simply left on your own, then it's hard. Forty years ago we had mother-and-baby homes usually run by nuns . . . now you could do it in a much more modern kind of way."
Some of you may be surprised that both Hazel Blears and I are advocating what is essentially a modern and humane version of the workhouse - the term has such negative connotations. But even Labour have done their sums; the increase in bastardy from the late '70s has been exponential. Costs are now unsustainable. Only the most radical ideas such as Community Settlements for the underclass can hope to make any impact.


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So thanks to Adam I have officially run out of room to park Volkswagens. He told me about a Tiguan at VW that apparently needed an engine.
After Adam approved of my enquiry about the Tiguan (his heart was set on it before finding out about the engine) this was the conversation with Bert's son.
"The old man say take it away for 1500"
"Like one thousand five hundred?"
"Are you sure?"
"Awesome. What's wrong with the engine?"
"Sometimes the oil pressure light comes on"
"It still runs?"
"See you tomorrow!"
Car started without a boost in -25C after sitting for who knows how long. Runs ok right now. No weird noises. Drove fine. AWD works. 220xxx KM.
Did I mention this is a 4motion Highline Model with the Sport Package?
Anyways, on to a couple pics.
The black leather interior is in nice shape. Just needs a good cleaning.
Only needs rear brakes and an exhaust clamp for a safety.
I guess I should start looking for a new engine!


text:
esStorybook Weddings With Lighting Like The Movies!
Full Service Photography Studio Since 1995
Photographing Weddings Worldwide
Rick DeLorme M.A., M.S.
Master of Photography+
Located on ten acres near Davison and Lapeer, Michigan
810-667-6700 Land Line: So Call me Maybe! or email rick at delormephoto.com
Welcome to DeLorme Photography, home of master photographer Rick DeLorme. With his full-service studio since 1995, DeLorme Photography has photographed clients throughout Michigan and in countries all over the world. With decades of professional experience, advanced education and techniques, an eye for capturing beautiful artistry and a commitment to each individual client's needs, DeLorme Photography provides the highest quality images for weddings, senior portraits, family photos and more. If you are in need of professional wedding photography packages in Lapeer, Flint or Clarkston, Michigan, there are many options to choose from.
DeLorme Photography stands out from the crowd by using advanced lighting techniques to capture the beautiful moments of your special day. Such as the open day and sales of cialis. Unlike most photographers, DeLorme Photography specializes in capturing all of the most precious moments and producing gorgeous wedding albums with a WOW factor.
If you are looking for a wedding photographer, a senior picture photographer or a family portrait photographer in Michigan, a pre-session visit to DeLorme Photography will be well worth your time. You will learn a great deal about Rick's capabilities and see examples of past work. You will understand the range of possibities when you hire this experienced professional photographer.
Don't have time to stop in for a full look at our galleries of previous events? Check out the full website, full of helpful information and images for you to enjoy. See the benefits of using a professional wedding photography service or senior portrait photographer.
Schedule an appointment with DeLorme Photography today and find out more about his professional photography services which can meet or exceed your every need. To get started, call DeLorme Photography today at 810-667-6700.
Thank you for visiting the website. Every section is full of information and images for you to enjoy. So please feel free to browse the many pages and learn more about Rick's services.


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text:
A follow-up to Is territoriality only the domain of the male of a species?
I've seen a large butterfly chase a different kind of butterfly around - it may, or may not have been territoriality. Is there a minimum scale of size, sentience(?) an organism must attain to exhibit territoriality?


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Funniest/Most Insightful Comments Of The Week At Techdirt
from the a-new-conciliatory-tone deptThis week's "most insightful" winner has one of the highest vote counts I can remember. Running away with first place is Mike C.'s comment in response to Hollywood unions calling SOPA opponents hackers and liars and then saying it hopes that any further discussion has a conciliatory tone:
Is it just me, or did anyone else read "We hope a new tone can be set that does not include website attacks, blacklists, blackouts, and lies" and immediately think:Coming in second, we have Skeptical Cynic responding to our story about various public interest groups gathering to have a public discussion about the very, very secret TPP (dangerous trade agreement) negotiations. One of our usual critics insisted that those public interest groups are really front groups and not interested in the public (which, if you knew any of them, you'd know is ridiculous). But SC points out an even more important point:
Ok. You first.
I don't want to waste time by pointing out the many, many things wrong with your comment. I am just going to say one thing.Indeed. As for editor's choice, we've got crade responding to the White House's response to Senator Rand Paul's incident with the TSA. When asked about why it wouldn't allow Paul to get on his flight after he refused a pat down, the White House's statement was: "I think it is absolutely essential that we take the necessary actions to ensure that air travel is safe, and I believe that's what TSA is tasked with doing." Crade pointed out that the misdirection there:
Even if everything you say is true, do you really want to live in a world where laws are decided on in secret?
Umm... yeah except I don't think anyone was asking what TSA was tasked with..And for the second editor's choice, we've got Christopher Weigel commenting on the movie theaters' top lobbyist's response to the SOPA protests:
Here's the part I find truly despicable:Too true. But it shows how Washington DC works.
"Senator Dodd and his team are quite good at this. We'll sit down with them and ask what has to be done to make legislation more narrowly tailored...."
Not "we'll sit down with the people who complained". Not "we'll sit down with Google or the other tech companies that understand how these things work". Not even "we'll sit down with the congressmembers who we're pretending wrote this."
This total [self-censored] wants to "sit down" with the same people who created this overly broad piece of crap in the first place and ask them how they want to proceed. And doesn't see any problem with that.
Okay, moving over to the funny side. The winner (by a wide margin) came from the Logician (with his Star Trek-related icon) responding to Wil Wheaton's claim that Chris Dodd was lying:
Well said, Ensign Crusher. As any Starfleet officer knows, the first duty is to the truth.Coming in second was an Anonymous Coward's response to the Pirate Bay opening up a section for 3D printing files. This AC already came up with the new slogan for the physical object anti-piracy ad campaign:
Don't Copy That Jalopy!For editor's choice this week, I actually picked out two separate comments that each reference popular movies (didn't realize the connection until after I picked both). Given how much MPAA news there's been lately, somehow that seemed appropriate. First we had TDR channeling the Princess Bride to explain what happened with the MPAA's lobbying efforts:
"You fell victim to one of the classic blunders, the most famous of which is, never get involved in a corporate war in America! But only slightly less well known is this: never go in against Hollywood when freedom is on the line! AHAHAHAHA! AHAHAHA—" *thunk*Then we've got Jeremy Lyman responding to the story of a court forcing some to decrypt their encrypted laptop even if it would incriminate them. Lyman wanted a bit more drama in the scene, and went to A Few Good Men:
Yeah, IANAL, but a warrant means police have the authority to go look for something in a specific location, not the authority to command a suspect divulge information. You have to trick them into revealing the secret by leveraging their own ego:Now, who's going to film these two scenes?
Col. Jessep: You want answers?
Kaffee: I think I'm entitled.
Col. Jessep: You want answers?
Kaffee: I want the truth!
Col. Jessep: You can't handle the truth!
Col. Jessep: Son, we live in a world that has tubes, and those tubes have to be guarded by encryption algorithms. Who's gonna do it? You? You, Lt. Weinburg? I have more numerous salt bits than you could possibly fathom. You weep for digital forensics, and you curse the cipher. You have that luxury. You have the luxury of not knowing what I know. That cryptography's invention, while inconvenient, probably keeps secrets. And my use of it, while absurd and incomprehensible to you, keeps secrets. You don't want the truth because deep down in places you don't talk about at parties, you want secrets to be kept, you need secrets to be kept. We use words like key, code, hash. We use these words as the backbone of a science dedicated to securing communication. You use them as a specter. I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain cryptography to a man who rises and sleeps under the blanket of the very security that it provides, and then questions the security it provides for others. I would rather you just said thank you, and went on your way, Otherwise, I suggest you pick up a decrypter, and start brute forcing. Either way, I don't give a damn what you think you are entitled to.
Kaffee: Do you know the private key?
Col. Jessep: I know the premise of encry...
Kaffee: Do you know the private key?
Col. Jessep: 4b752O7o3dgJ#?;6q7IxLBr7:#gUL^!
Boom! Techno-lawyered.


text:
Southwest Style by JTV™ sterling silver pebble design ring. Measures approximaetly 1.69"L x 0.13"W. Not sizeable. Oxidized finish.
Jewelry as beautiful as the Southwestern United States...Introducing JTV's Southwest Style Jewelry Collection. This special jewelry collection features genuine gemstones showcased in sterling silver designs with a southwestern flair. Their elaborate designs and vibrant colors are unmatched. The collection features a broad range of gems and shells such as turquoise
spiny oyster shell
black pen shell and black agate. Pieces are manufactured all over the globe
but the style is uniquely Southwest. Each design features the inspiration of the artisan who crafted it. Once popular regionally
this style of design has universal appeal and captures the essence and spirit of today's modern woman.
Sterling Silver Ring OWGCKAT


text:
Jarvis Media Adds Matrox KVM Extenders and Multi-Monitor Adapters to Distribution Portfolio
Resellers can now source Matrox Avio, DualHead2Go and TripleHead2Go from the UK's leading supplier to the creative industries
MONTREAL — Feb. 13, 2013 — Matrox Graphics Inc. today announced an expanded distribution agreement with Jarvis Media that adds the Matrox Avio™ KVM extenders and the Matrox DualHead2Go® and TripleHead2Go™ multi-monitor adapters to the Jarvis Media product catalogue.
Avio KVM extenders separate two digital monitors, keyboard and mouse from the computer by up to four kilometers (2.5 miles) via a single fibre-optic cable. DualHead2Go and TripleHead2Go boxes connect up to two and three additional monitors, respectively, to Mac and PC notebooks and workstations.
"The addition of these product lines is a natural evolution of our relationship with Jarvis Media who has been an important distributor of Matrox editing, streaming and converter products," said Cecilia Wills, Country Manager, Matrox Graphics. "Their resellers will now have the opportunity to offer additional productivity-enhancing tools to their customers."
"We are very pleased to be expanding and enhancing our relationship with Matrox via the engagement with Matrox Graphics," said Paul Snell, General Manager, Jarvis Tech/Media. "We see Matrox Graphics as a key strategic partner in bringing yet more innovative, quality products to the media and entertainment market and look forward to achieving great success through this new partnership."
Jarvis representatives will be present to meet with resellers at the BVE 2013 show at ExCel London from February 26-28 on the Matrox stand F21.
About Jarvis Media
Jarvis Media, a division of Jarvis Technologies, is a leading trade distributor for major vendors in the media and entertainment market across Europe. With a focus on developing opportunities for channel growth through expert knowledge and support, Jarvis Media continues to demonstrate a true value proposition for both customers and suppliers. For more information, visit www.jarvismedia.co.uk
Jarvis Media
Napier House, Crown Technical Centre
Burwash Road, Heathfield
East Sussex
Head Office: +44 (0) 1435 860 170
About Matrox Graphics Inc.
Matrox Graphics is a leading manufacturer of graphics solutions for professional markets. In-house design expertise, top-to-bottom manufacturing, and dedicated customer support make our solutions the premier choice in industries that require stable, high-reliability products. Founded in 1976, Matrox is a privately held company headquartered in Montreal, Canada, with representation and offices in the Americas, Europe, and Asia. For more information, visit www.matrox.com/graphics.
Media contact:Janet Matey
Media Relations Manager
Tel: +1 (514) 822-6037
Matrox and Matrox product names are registered trademarks and/or trademarks of Matrox Electronic Systems, Ltd. and/or Matrox Graphics Inc. in Canada and/or other countries. All other company and product names are registered trademarks and/or trademarks of their respective owners.


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Long gone are the days when it was ok to sleep off a mountain of turkey and stuffing before heading out for some post-Thanksgiving deal hunting. Thanksgiving day is now just the pre-game show for Black Friday, and if you have any hopes of scoring a bargain, you need to be waiting outside a store before the sun rises. Totally worth it, right?
So, given all the drama, we want to know if you bothered to deal with Black Friday at all this year—or did you stay home and enjoy a stack of delicious leftover turkey pancakes, instead? If you did venture out into the chaos, we want to know what deals you found—and if it was ultimately worth risking life, limb, and sleeping in 'til noon.


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pens_CT wrote:DontToewsMeBro wrote:I think moving Letang makes sense. He's going to command a lot of money. a lot. If you can get Crosby's wing (Yakupov/Eberle/Ryan/etc.) and a nice defensive d-man, it would be difficult to say no. He is a Norris guy, but our strength is on our defensive depth. Comparatively, Letang brings in a better return relative to his value than any of our defensive prospects right now.
So when do you trade him? At the deadline or after this season?
I don't think it's necessary to treat Letang like a time bomb, someone you actively try to shop around until you find a suitor, nor do I think Shero will play his hand like that. I just think Letang is not, and should not be, untouchable. There are only two players on this team with that title. I'm not concerned about when the deal is made. If he were to be traded, the Penguins couldn't possibly be less prepared for the playoffs this year without Letang than we were last year with him.


text:
eSources is the largest trade directory of wholesale suppliers, distributors, manufacturers, importers and wholesalers in the UK. If you are looking for reliable duvet bag suppliers from Canada, eSources is the ideal resource for your sourcing needs.
If you are a Canada supplier of duvet bag, and would like to receive enquiries from trade buyers worldwide by featuring your company in the wholesale products directory, click here to register your details
Canada Duvet Bag
Welcome Visitor, start here to find Canada trade distributors, exporters, wholesale suppliers, manufacturers and wholesalers of duvet bags supplying to the UK
Featured Canada exporters of duvet bags, manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors
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Browse the entire Canada Wholesaler Index for more wholesale suppliers:


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If you love the functionalities of online mapping services such as OpenStreetMap and Google Map, but you are fed up with their graphic design, the company Stamen Design has developed something for you: three background maps that you can use to render your own OpenStreetMap mashup. These three maps are: (1) Toner, a sharp high-contrast black and white that reminds me futuristic urban planning maps; (2) the more conventional Terrain which looks more like a shaded relief; (3) and the beautiful watercolor (my favorite) which is described as follows: "Reminiscent of hand drawn maps, our watercolor maps apply raster effect area washes and organic edges over a paper texture to add warm pop to any map." Since these maps use Open Source data (from OpenStreetMap) and are licenced under a creative commons licence, it would not be surprising to see them (and others) more and more frequently on the web, which would be great!
Stamen Design reinvents cartographic design


text:
FREE TWO DAY SHIPPING! On orders equal or greater than $250.00 dollars (USA). SEE DETAILS
FREE Two Day Shipping! On orders equal or greater than $250.00 dollars (USA). Use coupon code FS01 for continental USA. FS02 for HI, AK, and PR.
See Restrictions
This offer excludes dynamometers and dynamometer accessories. Orders must be equal to or greater than $250.00 US dollars. Offer only available within the USA, including Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico.
Only available for orders made directly with Dynojet Research Inc. via website or call in. Please note that for orders shipped to Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico discount will be taken at the time order is processed. Shipping method is FedEx two (2) day, any other shipping methods do not apply.
This product fits a
2001 Harley-Davidson Softail
Manufacturer :Dynojet Research Inc.
Part Number :AT-110B
2001 Harley-Davidson Softail has tunes, select engine to size to see.
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PRG Paskal Los Angeles Staff
What makes the PRG Paskal staff and crew members different from other Motion Picture Lighting and Grip Equipment houses? One word… Experience. While staff members at other equipment companies may seem like a constant revolving door, at PRG Paskal you will find the same team of friendly down to earth professionals year after year. People that you can rely on not only to fulfill your production needs but more so as partners and friends focused on the same goal; to provide outstanding equipment and service no matter how challenging your project may be. Whatever your location, rest assure that PRG Paskal has offices nearby to serve your needs.


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Patti Smith Narrates TUBBY THE TUBA with Little Orchestra Society Today
The Little Orchestra Society (LOS) presents TUBBY THE TUBA narrated by Patti Smith, the iconic National Book Award-winner, rock musician and poet, today, March 16, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., at Lincoln Center's Avery Fisher Hall. Ms. Smith brings to life George Kleinsinger's classic score about the most famous tuba in the world, Tubby, who teaches his instrument Friends in the orchestra that melodies and soloists can come from the most unexpected places. Tubby the Tuba is a childhood favorite of Ms. Smith's. As she writes in her 2010 memoir Just Kids:
"One evening Harry and Peggy invited us to visit with the composer George Kleinsinger, who had a suite of rooms at the Chelsea. ...I was free to rummage through George's musical compositions, stacked randomly among the ferns, palms, and caged nightingales. I was elated to find original sheet music from Shinbone Alley in a pile atop a filing cabinet. But the real revelation was finding Evidence that this modest and kindly snake-rearing gentleman was none other than the composer of the music for Tubby the Tuba. He confirmed this fact and I nearly wept when he showed me original scores for the music so beloved in my childhood."
In addition to Tubby the Tuba, audiences will hear an array of melodies and soloists, some familiar, some unexpected, with excerpts from works including Tan Dun's Concerto for String Orchestra and Pipa, Morton Gould's Tap Dance Concerto, Mozart's Queen of the Night Aria from The Magic Flute, and more.
(recommended for ages 6-12)
DAVID Alan Miller, GUEST CONDUCTOR
Patti Smith, NARRATOR
MIKHAIL GLINKA - Overture to Russlan and Ludmilla
Joseph Haydn - Allegro Molto from Cello Concerto No. 1 in C Major
Nathan Chan, Cello
Tan Dun - Allegro from Concerto for String Orchestra and Pipa
Min Xiao-Fen, Pipa
Morton Gould - Toccata (with Cadenza) from Tap Dance Concerto
Lane Alexander, Tap Dancer
W. A. MOZART - Queen of the Night aria from The Magic Flute
Soyoung Park, Soprano
George Kleinsinger - Tubby The Tuba
Patti Smith, Narrator
Performances are at Lincoln Center's Avery Fisher Hall (65th Street and Broadway). Single tickets: $15, $25, $45, $55; available by calling 212/971-9500, at littleorchestra.org, at the Avery Fisher Hall box office and by calling CenterCharge at 212/721-6500.
The Little Orchestra Society's new website serves as the gateway to its live magical and musical experiences. Parents and kids can find activities, games, chats and other materials surrounding Little Orchestra Society concerts at any time through the LOS Kids section of www.littleorchestra.org.
Patti Smith, born in Chicago and raised in South Jersey, migrated to New York in 1967.
Patti Smith's first recording, Horses, was inducted into The National Recording Registry in 1975 and into The Library of Congress by The National Recording Preservation Board in 2010. Her subsequent albums are Radio Ethiopia; Easter; Wave; Dream of Life; Gone Again; Peace and Noise; Gung Ho; Trampin; Land; Twelve; and most currently, Banga.
Author of the acclaimed memoir, Just Kids, which chronicled her friendship and Journey in art with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, Patti Smith was awarded the 2010 National Book Award. Her other books include Witt; Babel; Coral Sea; Woolgathering; and Auguries of Innocence.
Patti Smith's art has been exhibited at galleries and museums worldwide. Represented by the Robert Miller Gallery in New York since 1978, her exhibitions include Strange Messenger, Land 250, and Camera Solo. Steven Sebring's 2008 documentary, dream of life: the movie, was acknowledged internationally and received an Emmy nomination.
As well as being a Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame inductee, Patti Smith also holds the honor of "Commandeur des Arts et des Lettres" from the French Ministry of Culture, and has been awarded honorary doctorates from Rowan State University, Pratt Institute of Art, and the School of Art Institute Chicago. Patti Smith was honored by ASCAP with the Founders Award, representing lifetime achievement, and the recipient of Sweden's Polar Award, an international acknowledgement for significant achievements in music.
On February 7, 2013, Smith will be awarded the Katharine Hepburn Medal from Bryn Mawr College, which recognizes women whose lives, work and contributions embody the same drive and accomplishments as the four-time Academy Award-winning actress.
Patti Smith and her band continue to tour Worldwide as well as lend support for human right issues.
David Alan Miller (guest conductor) has established a reputation as one of the leading American conductors of his generation. Frequently in demand as a guest conductor, he has worked with most of America's major orchestras, developing particularly close relationships with the Minnesota Orchestra and Chicago Symphony Orchestra. He has also conducted the orchestras of Baltimore, Detroit, Houston, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, New York, Dallas, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and San Francisco, as well as the New World Symphony and the New York City Ballet. Mr. Miller is also founder and Artistic Director of "New Paths in Music," a festival in New York City dedicated to presenting the works of significant non-American composers who are not yet well known in the United States.
As Music Director of the Albany Symphony Orchestra, a position he has held since 1992, Mr. Miller has proven himself a creative and compelling orchestra builder. Through exploration of unusual repertoire, educational programming, community outreach and recording initiatives, he has reaffirmed the Albany Symphony's reputation as the nation's leading champion of American symphonic music and one of its most innovative orchestras. Other accolades include Columbia University's 2003 Ditson Conductor's Award, the oldest award honoring conductors for their commitment to American music, the 2001 ASCAP Morton Gould Award for Innovative Programming and, in 1999, ASCAP's first-ever Leonard Bernstein Award for Outstanding Educational Programming.
His extensive discography includes recordings of the works of Todd Levin with the London Symphony Orchestra for Deutsche Grammophon, as well as music by Michael Daugherty, Kamran Ince, and Michael Torke for London/Decca. His recordings with the Albany Symphony include discs of music by John Harbison, Roy Harris, Morton Gould, Don Gillis, George Lloyd, Peter Mennin, and Vincent Persichetti, all on the Albany Records label. He also led the Los Angeles Philharmonic in its recording of Mel Powell's music, including "Duplicates: Concerto for Two Pianos," winner of the 1990 Pulitzer Prize for Music.
A native of Los Angeles, David Alan Miller holds a bachelor's degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and a master's degree in orchestral conducting from The Juilliard School.
Lane Alexander (tap dancer) has a performing career spanning over 30 years that includes work on the concert stage, musical theater, television and film. He is one of the foremost experts on Morton Gould's Tap Dance Concerto which he has performed with the New York Pops, the London Philharmonic, the Grant Park Symphony Orchestra, and many other prestigious orchestras around the globe. He was the first artist to publish a recording of the Tap Dance Concerto since the original recording with Danny Daniels in 1952.
Lane toured nationally with Austin on Tap and appeared in the Candlelight Dinner Theater's long running production of 42nd Street (directed by Bill Pullinsi and choreographed by Marc Robin) before joining William Orloski's National Tap Dance Company of Canada in 1987 as an ensemble member. While still appearing as a guest artist with the NTDCC, Lane Co-founded alexander,michaels/Future Movement (am/FM) with Chicago native and noted contemporary dancer/choreographer Kelly Michaels. Together, they created a repertory of tap, modern dances that stretched the boundaries of both and worked for an acknowledgement of American tap as a recognized art form. They co-founded the Chicago Human Rhythm Project in 1990 as a summer festival of tap and percussive dance to further that mission. Lane's choreography and contributions to the field have been recognized by The National Endowment for the Arts' American Masterpieces program through the Illinois Arts Council, the Ruth Page Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Field, and the Chicago Dance and Music Alliance for Outstanding Solo Performance, among others.
In 2009, Lane received a ten-year appointment to the Beijing Contemporary Music Academy as a Senior Advisor and regularly teaches and performs in Athens, Beijing, Brasilia, Caracas, Florianopolis, Helsinki, Munich, Paris, Prague, Stuttgart, Tokyo, Zurich and at numerous festivals around the North America including the Third Coast Rhythm Project, Tap City, Vancouver Tap Festival and Soul to Soles. He has appeared with such greats as Donald O'Connor, Gregory Hines, Maurice Hines, the Nicholas Brothers, Buster Brown, Prince Spencer, Peg Leg Bates, Jimmy Slyde, Bill Irwin, Savion Glover and Luke Cresswell. Lane currently teaches at the Tap Studio in Chicago and has served on the faculties of dance studios and universities across the United States.
Eighteen-year-old cellist Nathan Chan made his musical debut at the age of three, conducting the San Jose Chamber Orchestra on a set of variations by Mozart. He has performed as a soloist with orchestras including the San Francisco Symphony, The Royal Philharmonic (London), Northern Sinfonia (UK), Albany Symphony, Marin Symphony, and the San Francisco Chamber Orchestra, among others. He made his Carnegie Hall debut at the age of 12, recorded with the legendary singer Roberta Flack at age 13, and at age 15, released a CD of the live world premiere performance of the "quadruple concerto" Velesslavitsa by Alexander Prior on the European label, Toccata Classics. He was featured in the Peabody Award-winning HBO Television documentary, "The Music in Me," the Grammy Award-winning radio show, "From the Top," and was one of the featured artists of the acclaimed three-part British Television documentary, "The World's Greatest Musical Prodigies." Nathan currently attends the Columbia University-Juilliard School Exchange program and studies with Richard Aaron.
Pipa player, singer and composer Min Xiao-Fen was born in the ancient capital of Nanjing, China. She has become internationally known for her virtuosity and fluid playing style on the pipa, whether performing classical music or in avant-garde or improvised settings.
Min has recorded traditional Chinese music together with many of the world's leading symphony orchestras and other ensembles and has performed at a number of international festivals. Since moving to the United States in 1992, she has been featured as a soloist with the Brooklyn Philharmonic, Pacific Symphony, San Diego Symphony, and New Haven Symphony Orchestra, among many others. Min premiered composer Tan Dun's opera Peony Pavilion with director Peter Sellars in 1998. Min also premiered composer Anthony De Ritis's pipa concerto, Ping Pong, with the Taipei Chinese Music Orchestra in 2004 and composer Huang Ruo's solo work, Written on the Wind, for the Meet the Composer series in 2008.
In spite of her classical background, Min has also become an established member of the improvised music community in New York. She has worked with a variety of artists, including trombonist George Lewis, saxophonists Jane Ira Bloom and Ned Rothenberg, guitarists Marc Ribot and Elliott Sharp, violinists Regina Carter and Jason Kao Hwang, bassist Mark Dresser, pianists Jon Jang and Daniel Kelly, sound artists Carl Stone and DJ Spooky, and sound and visual artist Christian Marclay. Min has also made a guest appearance on singer Björk's album, Volta, in 2007 and was invited to perform as a special guest with Björk at Madison Square Garden and Radio City Music Hall in New York City following the release of the album.
As a composer, Min received a commission in 2007 for Return of the Dragon from The Kitchen in New York, followed by a performance with her Asian Trio. She was a featured composer and performed her solo piece Blue Pipa for the American Composers Orchestra's Composer Out Front series. Ghost Masks was commissioned and performed by Min-Wu-Xu at the Glatt & Verkehrt Festival in Krems, Austria in 2008, and her solo Dim Sum was premiered at Interpretations in 2010 in New York.
Min regularly performs with her own groups, which include the Blue Pipa Trio (with bassist Dean Johnson and guitarist Steve Salerno), the Chinese Women String Ensemble, The Asian Trio (with Korean cellist Okkyung Lee and Japanese percussionist Satoshi Takeishi), and Min-Wu-Xu.
Min has taught many master classes and has been an artist in residence at schools and universities across the United States and Europe, including The Juilliard School, Manhattan School of Music, Boston Conservatory, The New School, Columbia University, Wellesley College and the Amsterdam Conservatory. She is the founder of Blue Pipa Inc. and currently lives in Forest Hills, Queens.
Soprano Soyoung Park was born in Busan, South Korea, and began singing when she was thirteen years old. Ms. Park received her bachelor's degree in Vocal Performance from Seoul National University where she was awarded a full scholarship and graduated first in her class. At SNU she performed the roles of Violetta from Verdi's La Traviata and Gilda from the opera Rigoletto in their main-stage productions. Ms. Park was awarded first prize at the Sungjung Music Competition in 2008 and Nanpa Vocal Competition in 2009. She also performed in The Young Artist Debut Concert at the Sejong Art Center in Korea.
Ms. Park was the recipient of the Presidential Scholarship for her Master's Degree at the New England Conservatory in 2012 where she performed the roles of the Queen of the Night in Die Zauberflöte and Zerbinetta from the Prologue of Ariadne auf Naxos. She went on to sing the Queen of the Night at the Aspen Music Festival in 2012. Most recently she performed the role of Amore in Gluck's Orfeo ed Euridice at NEC and will be performing the role of Lisetta in NEC's production of Rossini's La gazzetta in 2013. She is currently pursuing her Artist Diploma at the New England Conservatory in the studio of Lorraine Nubar.
The Little Orchestra Society/Orpheon, Inc. (LOS), now in its 65th season, performed its inaugural concert at The Town Hall on October 20, 1947, and has since been devoted to presenting music and educational programming that inspires audiences of all ages to encourage a lifetime of participation in the arts. The LOS honors both the past, by presenting ensemble pieces created by the great early composers, while also "orchestrating the innovation" in classical music through world premieres of new works -- more than 65 throughout its history. The Orchestra performs dynamic repertoire using multiple art forms to create meaningful experiences for today's audiences.
The LOS's mission to present music in engaging, educational contexts was refined under the direction of the late Maestro Dino Anagnost, who led the orchestra from 1979 to 2011. Throughout its history, the Orchestra has given many important premieres and launched the careers of major musical talents in its concert programming for adult audiences. In addition to its concert performances, its music Education and community engagement programs educate and entertain New York Metropolitan Area children and their families, as well as senior citizens, through the Musical Connections, Live In Concert! and Project 65Plus programs.
Musical Connections: The School Partnership Program, a year-long music Education program, teaches students the basic elements of music by engaging them in the process of composing their own works. Live In Concert! seeks to instill a lasting love of music in children and their families and to create new audiences for classical music. New York City public school students and children from publicly-funded daycare centers and Social service agencies attend The Little Orchestra Society's dress rehearsals and concerts without charge. Project 65Plus recognizes the importance of life-long learning and provides senior New Yorkers with free admission to the Orchestra's concerts. The LOS also works to serve grandparents who are caregivers. More than 12,000 people participate in LOS music Education and public service programs each year.
The Little Orchestra Society's concert series includes the Peabody Award-winning Happy Concerts for Young People for children ages 6-12, the Lolli-Pops for children ages 3-5, and the concerts for adults, which have included Vivaldi's Venice, Cathedral Concerts - Great Music Under a Byzantine Dome and Sound Discoveries. For more information, visit littleorchestra.org or call 212-971-9500.
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I still have so many projects to share with you from my summer workshop series, but I'm skipping this gem to the top of the line up. Our young adult librarian had suggested making Thai String Dolls, and after a little research I realized that it could be an accessible and popular project. I had a blast making these dolls with a half dozen great teens.
Traditionally Thai string dolls are made by looping a thick cord skeleton that is wrapped in thinner cord. I knew that there could be an easier nontraditional way to make the dolls. I immediately pulled out my box of chenille stems (pipe cleaners). Starting with the big head, I spiraled a chenille stem into a ball shape to form the 'skull'.
To add mass I wrapped two more chenille stems around the first one. It doesn't matter what color the chenille stems are, as they will be completely concealed in 'string'.
Fold your fourth chenille stem in half and trap your skull in the fold. Twist the chenille stem ends together under the skull to make the neck. Then fold the remaining lengths in half to form the arms.
Fold a fifth chenille stem into the letter 'W" to make the legs. Hook the center of the 'W' over the shoulder section of the arms. This might feel a little wobbly but the chenille stem will be firmly connected by the yarn wraps.
Thin cotton blend yarn works best for this project. I had a super collection of Plymouth yarns Wildflower D.K. left over from designing projects for
Soft and Simple knits for Little ones
. The colors are fabulous and the weight is ideal. Working directly off the skein, place the yarn end against the chenille skull and begin tightly wrapping the yarn around the head. Make sure you constantly change directions, if you make too many rotations in a single direction, the loops may fall off. If that happens simple unwind the dropped loops and rewind tighter in a different direction.
When it comes time to wrap the arms and legs, bring the yarn down to the elbow or foot first. Unfold the chenille stem and tightly wrap the yarn where it was bent. Be careful to completely conceal the chenille stem with your wraps.
Refold the arm or leg and over wrap the folded chenille stems together. Repeat the process with the remaining limbs.
Wrap the top of the legs together to form the base of the torso and make crisscross wraps across the chest. If your doll's head doesn't look big enough bring the yarn back to the top and wrap it some more. Once you're pleased with the proportions cut the yarn off the skein and use a dab of hot glue to anchor the cut end against the body.
I supplied Darice 9mm solid black safety eyes, you won't need the clear anchor piece (although one clever creator used them for the eyes). Simply push the screw end into the head. If you wrapped tightly it will take some effort and wiggling to get the screw end lodged into place.
I had stiffened felt scraps on hand (left over from the
). Stiff felt is incredibly easy to cut and hot glue in place. If you're ambitious you could thread contrasting yarn colors into a darning needle and stitch a mouth, eyes or other embellishments onto your doll.
Simply over wrapping your doll with other string colors is a simple way to dress them up. I rolled a tiny grey ball of string for this rabbits tail. This open ended craft is ideal, your imagination is the only limit to the characters and animals you can create.


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We manufacture, retail, and wholesale all kinds of outdoor products. Concrete statuary, planters, fountains, storage buildings, outdoor furniture-(poly, cedar, pine), carports/garages, birdhouses and birdfeeders, windchimes, chimineas, Vietnamese pottery, gazebos, etc.


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Preparing for Live-Aboard Cruising on my J/34
Four parts-
Part I- Preparation
By Glenn Cooper
In early spring 1997 we bought J-34c hull #30, renamed her Colette (the name of my daughter) and sailed her from Maine to her new home north of Boston. In 1996 I decided I wanted to try "the cruising life", including passagemaking. During the summer of 1996 I started looking at cruisers that would be seaworthy and comfortable for a couple. All the boats I had in mind were of the "hefty" offshore variety. Boats like Cape Dorys, Pacific Seacrafts, and Island Packetts were catching my eyes. In fact, by early fall, I had visited a Cape Dory "36" that started tugging at my heart.
In November I took a course on blue water sailing that included participating in a delivery of a 40'er from one of the above manufacturers. We planned on a 6-7 day cruise across the Gulf Stream direct from Norfolk to Marsh Harbor in the Abacos. While at the Norfolk marina, prior to leaving, both another crew and me had to make trips up the mast. It took two of us on a winch to get someone up the "stick" even though both of us going up weighed no more then 170 lbs. We also did plenty of climbing to help the guys doing the cranking. Because the sails were all so small the winches, sized, accordingly, made getting to the masthead very difficult for two people to accomplish.
On the voyage south, after a bouncing few days following the passage of a deep cold front, we met 10-15 knot winds that kept us close-hauled. It was rare that we weren't motor sailing. The Master of the boat, a very well known cruiser and ocean racer (he writes for several of the main sailing magazines and gives seminars) chatted with me about my ideas of having a sturdy and comfortable cruiser, and my preference for sailing over motoring.
He (for obvious reasons it would be unfair to use his name) told me about a recent Bermuda trip he took on a medium sized J-Boat (a "105" or a "35", I recall), " ... it was mainly heavy weather sailing the whole way and I couldn't imagine any boat providing a faster, safer and drier ride. It was a ball ... nothing like what we're experiencing now." At one point I asked, " ... knowing my "dreams" what kind of boat would you steer me to?" The answer: a medium sized "J" cruiser. A week after returning from the Abacos I started doing some research and contacted Rich Hill who represents J-Boats, in Marblehead, to ask him to find J-34c's to look at.
Pam Rickard and I have lived in the same apartment complex for several years. In the spring of 1997 she left for England to help prepare a 53' sloop for a double-handed cruise across the Bay of Biscay to gunkhole the coasts of Spain, Portugal and on to Gibralter. Pam is an experienced cruiser and has participated in blue-water deliveries. She owned a Freedom "32" which was lovingly kept in the Newport, R.I. area as well as larger boats.
Going across the Bay of Biscay Pam and her partner hit a series of gales, the first of which ended the life of the windvane. Steering for 90% of the passage was by tiller. Imagine tiller steering a 53' boat that suffers from too much weather helm! Two hours on and two hours off. Clearly Pam was either headed for the cruising life, or the World Wrestling Federation!
This past December Pam and I started talking about living our cruising dreams together. As Pam had owned a TPI built boat she at least knew mine was a well-constructed yacht, but sailing on it was months off. And of course there was the issue of space. Pam, like myself, gets a wider grin when the engine is silent and the prop is feathered. We've been out for several mini cruises this spring in all sorts of weather. Pam now thinks she's suspended on the sea surface by eagle's wings.
When we really thought about it "Colette" was constructed for offshore and coastal life but the onboard gear really limited us to being out for only days at a time. Could we make Colette comfortable and self-reliant for two-week visits to secluded destinations on the Bahama bank? What did we need to do to provide for our safety?
The J-34c has shallow bilge's and "cramming" all we needed onboard would certainly be a challenge. Between reading other cruisers' narratives, kicking ideas around between ourselves and consulting our Yard (Crockers in Manchester-By-The-Sea) we have decided on the following bits of gear and modifications. At this point 95% of the changes have been made. So far no regrets but the acid test really lies ahead!
We'd like to share what we've done and welcome any thoughts and suggestions you may have. We'll be at the "J" cruising rendezvous later in August and look forward to having you "kick" Colette's tires and checking out all the "goodies" we have aboard.
Ground tackle
We did two things: First we invested in much heavier ground tackle in the form of a 35' CQR and a large Fortress stowed in a bag which will be the primary storm anchor in sand. The CQR is backed up with 30' of 3/8th inch chain and connected to a heavy nylon rode with a large swivel (if we had the displacement we'd prefer an all chain rode). The swivel keeps chain kinks to a minimum and makes it easier to get the gear past the roller furler drum and into the chain/rode locker. We don't have a windlass.
Then, to complete the anchoring system, our yard built up the boat's stemhead. To begin with we felt the anchor roller set-up undersized for the stresses (especially with the bigger anchor) we can expect to face when anchoring in a blow. Moreover a CQR is always more manageable if it can be secured on the bow roller with a husky clevis pin passing through the anchor and the roller assembly.
The second part of getting heavier ground tackle in place required cutting the original anchor roller protrusion off and replacing it with the bigger one maximized for our new CQR. We were concerned about damage to the fore deck with all the heavier gear rubbing on the non-skid surface. To protect it we've had a stainless plate laid down to protect wherever chain or anchor parts are apt to scrape. To cover all the area adequately the bow pulpit was partially lifted so the plate could be slipped under. We think the arrangement is pretty neat.
Our boat has a starboard anchor locker on deck. This is now the home of our small Fortress. With Colette's moderate wind profile we look forward to getting lots of use from our "lunch hook". Manually getting a 35' CQR on and off with 30' of chain ain't nothing like playing with a yo-yo!
The electrical system
You can't imagine how confused we got before deciding on our present system. We investigated typical marine flooded batteries, golf cart systems, gel cells and absorbed glass-mats. On top of this was a system to keep the charge of, and whether we should have a separate starter battery? We have, and still do, chat about solar panels and wind generators. At one point we were close to checking into the availability of a 2000 mile shore power cord!
The first key decision concerned which battery technology to choose? Our choice has been to go with sealed absorbed glass mat batteries. We saw a Federal Express study on the Internet which tested these against gell cells and traditional flooded batteries. Fed-Ex was having a problem keeping charge in batteries on planes that were taking off and landing often, on short hops. They, following extensive testing, went with the "AGM's". The far lower internal resistance of AGM technology permits them to recharge far faster then even gel cells. Fed-Ex also concluded AGM's discharge far slower when at rest.
Here's what we finally did about our electrical system and why. After reading this some of you might conclude we should have followed up on the 2000 mile power cord! We relegated the original 55 amp alternator to the spares bin and replaced it with a 100 amp unit. That gave us a shorter charge cycle, meaning less engine time. Step two was scrapping the batteries that we inherited and in their place creating one bank of 315 amps. and another of 105 amps. The larger one is used by us for everything including starting. The second is a back-up, saved for starting the engine, should their be a problem with the larger bank.
The key is to carefully monitor the state of charge in the two banks, and to keep it simple. Here's the controversial part: since we expect to be using the engine fairly often, more so then most yachts use their motors, we stayed away from a "smart" three-stage regulating system. Instead we have a simple two-stage system like is typical with commercial vessels.
We came to this conclusion after consultation with our yard. They support the local fishing fleet as well as many of the Manchester-Marblehead-Salem yachting community. They told us how many more electrical problems the yachties with their computerized "smart" systems were experiencing compared to the fishermen. Since we have such a high priority on dependability - aside from a hefty dose of bafflement for anything having to do with electrical systems - we went "simple". Who knows, maybe we'll catch more fish!
Since we had to expand our electrical panel to accommodate additions under consideration we took the opportunity to install an accurate digital voltmeter. This is how we watch the two banks. Just to make sure we were getting all the juice possible around the system and to solve a small problem of voltage drop we also put in a new battery switch and heavier gauge wiring between the alternator, the switch and the batteries.
By the way our yard had to build us a platform to accept the new batteries. They did it close to the original battery location out of marine plywood and covered the box in epoxy. Perforated to permit as much air circulation as possible the box is a neat looking work of engineering and woodworking.
Organizing space
No matter how we cut it there were going to be some things we would have to do without. However, not being minimalists and wanting our pleasures along - we were determined to make more space. Here's where Pam's engineering background really shined. My contribution was to promise not to throw my clothes all over the cockpit sole.
The first step and easiest fix was to add shelves wherever we had lockers that could not be filled up to the brim. A perfect example is a space under the sink. By adding a shelf we more then doubled the area. We looked all over and did the same with the space under the nav table and -still to be done - the space under the cockpit seats aft of the quarterberth. Another "touch" has been to rig mini hammocks fore and aft where they don't interfere with traffic. Along with creating extra space a key is to make things more accessible. By putting fresh fruit, snacks and everyday use stuff in the hammocks this "getting-to-things-pain in-the-butt" is reduced.
Maybe the biggest "space" frustration on a boat is the icebox, especially if they are top loading. Ours had a sliding fiddled shelf with some flat space between it and the hull side. Here's where Frank Lloyd Pam really shined. She re-designed the whole box. The sliding shelf was retired and the flat space on the outboard side was made into two zones using Plexiglas that's 3" high. Nothing tumbles around no matter the point of sail and the small jarred things put there are highly visible through the plexiglas.
We didn't modify the main cavernous portion instead we nosed around kitchen shops until we found two sizes of stackable plastic boxes. Using about six of these gives us a very well organized icebox. Instead of pulling things out one at a time we just lift the various boxes. The process is quick which saves "cold", and none of the food rests on each other. It's neat!
We didn't have refrigeration. We do now. Adding this capability has been another no brainer, except we did bounce around between engine driven versus DC powered. On a new boat we'd probably get the engine driven system but for our needs we took the DC route. The draw is about 4 amps per hour on the average and the costs of unit and installation are far less then an engine driven model.
Our compressor is installed on a shelf in the huge port cockpit locker up against the galley bulkhead. It is enclosed in a finished plywood box that is perforated for ventilation with fiddles on top. One more place to stow small things. As the finish on the refrigeration box matches the quality of the new battery platform entering our cockpit locker now is like visiting a subterranean Chippendale factory.
On other J-34c's I'll bet the cockpit locker is the most underutilized area, and the most difficult storage space to get to the bottom of. We've turned ours into a walk-in closest. Once again I.M. Pei Pam gets most of the credit. The main tools of organization are threefold: with washers and nuts we used the bolts joining the deck to the hull to rig sturdy plastic loop hangers which lock; just below the shelf where the refrigeration unit sits we've screwed on a row of stainless hangers (kind of like coat hangers); and lastly on the top inside of the cockpit lockers two locking plastic clamps are mounted on shims to hold the emergency tiller.
As a result we hang all docking lines, fenders, anything damp, etc. in the locker as well as most heavy duty cleaning stuff, and other sailing things we want handy such as preventers, spare anchor rodes, extra life vests, etc. At the bottom is the storm anchor in a bag (Fortresses can be disassembled). Everything stays clean and well organized now, and getting stuff out doesn't require a gymnast's handstand!
We also store a liferaft and deflated Zodiac in the locker and still there's room to crawl around get at the engine, batteries, instrument pods and steering mechanisms once a few of the larger items are lifted into the cockpit. The cockpit locker space on a J-34c is huge, and getting it organized sure lessens the storage issues elsewhere in the boat.
Here's something else we've discovered to "create" more room: minimize the amount of cotton and wool garments on board. Wherever practicable we use soft polyester (like the stuff called "Cool-Max") and polar fleece garments. They are lightweight, they dry quickly, don't retain dampness like cotton and wool, and pack very tightly.
Style is a bit lacking, I'll admit. Colors and patterns are limited and the shapes of some of the garments sure aren't meant to make you look like someone in the Bolshoi. In fact, when I put on fleece pants, Pam claims I look like one of those Chinese dogs with all the rolls of skin. Come to think of it most of my clothes look that way.
The Head
Pam has a more sensitive nose then me. Maybe because it's longer? To start making the area livable we got the head re-built and started using the chemicals that cause "nice" smelling little critters to populate the system, even when mixed with sea water. This chemical, called "K.O.", is flushed from the bowl into the holding tank after each time the tank is emptied. It's important not to use any chemicals to clean the bowl that might neutralize the "good-guys".
To also eliminate odors and to prepare for life where pump-out facilities don't exist we had our yard install a manual pump that allows us to pump the tank directly overboard. While we should have done it when the pump was installed we're also planning to pull out all the old sanitary hose and replace them with "fresh" ones. Can't hurt. By the way I understand the first "rule" of cruising is always get someone else to work on the head whenever possible ... I always try and obey the rules.
The pump is mounted on a bulkhead right under the forward sleeping area. It's bullet proof: stick the handle in and pump away. They're no valves of any kind to manipulate.
The Main Sleeping Area
The polyester comforter (warm when wet and dries fast) and matching form fitting backrest pillows are very colorful; lots of birds of paradise and bright flowers. Actually the backrest pillows are also great for use in the main salon when stretching out and reading, or listening to the stereo, on the settees. They make lazy time and rainy days a lot more tolerable.
We feel a key is utilizing materials that are comfortable yet relatively easy to keep dry.
The Propane Locker
If any of you have added to your boat's weight we suggest you check to see that the propane locker vent is still in safe territory.
The Rig
This arrangement is sometimes more confusing to other boaters in inland situations or when maneuvering so we plan to keep our deck level lights and keep them separated on the electrical panel. We also found a neat light in a catalog that has a photoelectric cell and draws only about .3 amps. We plan to use it as a low anchor light (sometimes safer in the Bahamas where small fishing boats don't see the raised ones), and to luminate the cockpit for nighttime eating and lounging. It plugs into one of the cigarette lighter type outlets.
Our next boat (a J-42 or 44!!!) will definitely have two small DC water-makers. We've talked to several experienced cruisers and this appears to be the best solution. "Branch" water for the bourbon, fresh water showers every day ... ahhh! Unfortunately the cruising "kitty" and the available space just ain't there.
We plan to lash a six-ten gallon container in the cockpit locker, several tall containers of about four gallons each bungied under the dining table, a six gallon Sunshower lashed down on deck, and a water catchment system built into our cockpit awning. There'll be plenty of seawater baths in Joy, some foul odors following the crew around, and constant searches for marinas with showers.
Rule number two of cruising: "any time you can shower ashore, do it."
Canvas and sails
We have decided what we want and have talked to two local canvas lofts and a few catalog companies. We're astounded: for equal items the pricing has varied from less then $700 for all of the above to almost $3000! The big item is the awning.
We want a unit that will cover the entire cockpit and dodger. That keeps us covered and cools a big portion of the main cabin (especially the galley). Other features we need are flaps side and aft to shed rain and low angled sun rays, a water collection capability, and an awning sturdy enough to stand up to 20 knots or so of wind, that way we don't have to take it down every time we go ashore.
One of the lofts came up with an idea for providing storage we never thought of. The cockpit weather cloths can be built double layered so they form pockets. The tops can be sealed with, for example, velcro. Once again, better use of the limited space we have. What a great place to keep snorkeling gear, sun block, books, etc. handy.
In 1996 our boat had a new genoa and main added. The original 130% jib was cut to 110% and the new headsail was enlarged to 150%. The main was built with a far larger roach then the main that came from Shore Sails. The previous owner did most of his sailing in the middle of the day in Maine in a area notorious for very light summer air. In light air these mylar miracles transform Colette into the stealth ghost boat. Other sailors can't believe were not under power.
In the Bahamas last winter 25 knots of true wind would be called a light breeze. Anticipating strong prevailing breezes down south this winter our 110% jib seems fine as an all-purpose jib. At the moment we think we may leave the 150% headsail in the storage locker and find a used, heavy weight 100% or 110% furling jib we can have cut into a 90-100% "yankee". Also being discussed is the necessity for more of a storm sail, perhaps something that can be affixed around an already furled jib and hoisted via the spinnaker halyard.
Actually, we may even leave the new, larger, main behind and re-commission the original one. Why depreciate the new stuff if - to be honest about it - we're lolling about on the hook most of the time, and "ghosting" in light airs (for our boat 2-5 knots), is rarely an issue? We also have a five year old asymmetrical efficient from 75 to about 130 degrees of apparent wind which we'll probably hold in reserve for days when there's nary a ripple in sight.
A key of course is never falling overboard. We keep our jacklines always rigged and recently we invested in automatic inflating harness-safety vest combos (not Coast Guard approved). We think they're safer then what the Coast Guard currently does approve of.
Underway the helmsperson can operate like a true single-hander (we don't have a wind vane but do have a wheel pilot). This is a huge safety factor to us, especially the great control we have over the mainsail. I'm amazed how many "just-for" cruising boats don't allow the helmsperson to easily luff and trim the main during hard puffs. Pam or I can catch up on rest while the other manages all cockpit chores during moderate conditions. Not being fatigued is another huge safety margin factor.
The previous owners had a rope to wire halyard to hoist the mainsail. We've replaced it with a low stretch spectra one. Our reason had to do with safety when going aloft. With the rope to wire arrangement you simply clipped on to the bosun's chair with the shackle used for connecting to the main. With the all rope halyard we can tie on with a bosun's knot and then double up by attaching the shackle. It's a lot safer in our eyes.


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Here is a lot of 10 vintage Marx USGI's, cast in olive green soft plastic. The figures shown in the photo are the ones you will receive. All are in very good, played with condition (look at the photo). They will be packed sealed in a polybag.
- Item #: 020618G


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David Bowie Left A Clue In Final Twitter Account He Followed
In the wake of David Bowie's death, fans have been analysing his final video "Lazarus", where the lyrics - "Look up here, I'm in heaven" - and imagery of Bowie in a hospital bed have read as his final message to his fans.
But it isn't the only message he left for fans...
David Bowie, or whoever manages his Twitter account, followed an interesting account that fans are taking note of...
Sooo the last account @DavidBowieReal followed on twitter was God @TheTweetOfGod #bowieRIP #DavidBowie #bowie pic.twitter.com/F254zt4AFQ
— Peter Agorist (@PAKallman) January 11, 2016
The final account he followed was God.
David Bowie's last followed person was God pic.twitter.com/2fPdfzU9xd
— ❖Freferio's❖ (@Freferi) January 12, 2016
Although we don't know when Bowie's official account (@DavidBowieReal) followed @TweetOfGod, fans were tweeting about it on Monday.
Could this have been how Bowie was feeling in the days prior to his death? We'll never know.
But the account tweeted a sweet tribute to David Bowie.
It read: David Bowie was the God I always wanted to be.
David Bowie was the God I always wanted to be.
— God (@TheTweetOfGod) January 11, 2016
H/T Mashable


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Dan Stewart necesitaba un nuevo diseño de impreso o envases y lanzó un concurso de diseño en 99designs.
Un ganador ha sido elegido entre 27 diseños de 11 diseñadores freelance.
SendSavings is a brand new platform that allows businesses to deliver text message coupons to our 100% opt-in audience of people who support charities and non-profits. We sell the texts to advertisers and donate $.05 for every text we deliver! Each recipient passively raises $5 to $25 a year for their favority charity, school, church or non-profit.
We're in business to do good, and are on a mission to make a portion of every ad spend work for the good of the community.
We're aimed at three audiences:
1. The Supporter - or person who opts-in to receive our offers on their mobile phone.
2. The Non-Profit - (and charity, church or school) that asks it members to join SendSavings so that it can receive the $.05 donation per text.
3. The Advertiser - or business that sends messages to Supporters.
We launched in the Tampa Bay market in May and already have over 60 participating Non-Profits and our Supporter base grows daily. National launch in 2011.
We're looking for a graphic or pictogram that visually explains the SendSavings platform. It should be small enough to fit on a business card and visually explain the win, win, win relationship between Supporter, Non-Profit and Advertiser.
Supporter - saves money while doing good for their favorite charity
Non-Profit - passively increases funds raised without asking for more donations
Advertiser - reaches 100% opt-in audience of people who donate time and money to good causes.
Reference the SendSavings website http://sendsavings.com for logo and color preferences but don't be shy about being creative - we're flexible! If you come up with something but can't make it sensible at business card size please share it anyway, because we can probably use it elsewhere.


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New Confirmed Sighting!Posted: June 12, 2012 Filed under: Andy | Tags: Andy, Corgi, Lost Dog, Sighting 16 Comments
YAY!! We received another sighting yesterday!!!!!! I do get more calls then I post, and I save the best for all of you! This sighting was from 2 witnesses both seeing Andy clearly, he was sitting and observing, then turned around and headed back into the woods. This was within one of his 2 known "hot zones", it was a little further away from the sighting last week but all in his same favorite areas… We are currently looking for his possible paths and routes from one area to the other. Also still researching possible repeat appearances, or feeding areas.
We still have feeding stations and cameras, as well as some traps, most importantly right now we need to try to encourage Andy to develop a pattern we can monitor and hopefully be able to start to anticipate his arrival! Some very special Andy volunteers have created and printed Andy info sheets for the residents currently in his hot zone areas. This explains in greater detail why it is so important to keep eyes and ears peeled, and also explains that we have CONFIRMED his presence with questions, a photo line up i.d. card, and of course with the help of the most talented team of scent trained dogs!! Also we have specially designed posters for our cars so we can be driving billboards! We have included his Facebook page on the posters because I feel it is so beneficial for local residents to be able to keep up with his story and get up to date progress reports, to keep the awareness that Andy is still there!! The neighborhood has been so very supportive and helpful and for this I am so grateful as I am completely relying upon their phone calls to be able to continue to move forward in the way that we have been.
I am sure it feels to all of you like a lifetime between sighting updates, sometimes it feels like that to me as well, but please know that sooo much team Andy work is going on between the excitement of our sighting phone calls. It is because of all this Team Andy work that I have been blessed to get as many calls as I have gotten, in fact the last 2 sightings had only been reported because of 2 very dedicated Andy supporters, they happened to be in the right places at the right times and collected info and called me to report it!
What a phenomenal group of people we have, both on the ground and online. Your help and support is something I could not go on without, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
xoxo Jordina, Michael, Hallie, Taz, and I am certain Andy is sending his love 🙂
'Bring Andy Home:' Search For Missing Corgi Goes High TechPosted: April 26, 2012 Filed under: Andy 2 Comments
'Bring Andy Home:' Search For Missing Corgi Goes High Tech
Andy's story featured on NPR's All Things Considered.
Karin TarQwyn is Headed Back to CTPosted: April 18, 2012 Filed under: Andy, Bring Andy Home | Tags: Andy, Connecticut, Corgi, Dog Tracker, Karin TarQwyn, Lost Dog 1 Comment
News from: Karin TarQwyn… the K9 P.I.
Headin' the doggies EAST!!!! After reviewing The Andy case, we have decided to come back to Connecticut to expand the search for this lovable little Corgi. Based on recent sightings and in some cases lack of sightings in certain areas, I feel it is likely that Andy is now frequenting other locations and/or has expanded his travel route. Without a more definitive location, it is difficult for the volunteer ground crew to know what areas to cover in their awareness campaigns let alone where to place traps and cameras.
We will be arriving on the East coast at the end of this week and will begin the search for Andy on Saturday. You have all been supportive of our efforts in the past and I truly appreciate it. Please hold a positive thought for us as we head your way with the goal of locating this indomitable little dog. See you all soon… I will post updates here as I learn more… Thanks… Karin, CADE, Brodie, Paco and making his first trip… new rescue… TRUMP
Andy Sighting by Michael!Posted: March 29, 2012 Filed under: Andy | Tags: Andy, Corgi, Sighting 3 Comments
from Andy's Facebook page…
Great omen this morning….I (Michael) was driving this morning and saw Andy between 2 houses. He saw my truck driving down the road and took off. I saw him turn around and head behind the house. By the time I stopped and got out of the truck and went around the house, he was gone. This puts him in his pattern….. not long now!
As It Happens | CBC Radio CanadaPosted: March 28, 2012 Filed under: Andy | Tags: Andy, Corgi, Lost Dog Leave a comment
Great news coverage yesterday!
As It Happens | CBC Radio Canada
A couple's dog has been missing since New Year's Eve — so naturally, they've mounted more than a dozen night-vision cameras around their property, and printed up ten thousand flyers.
Andy's Story in The New York Times MagazinePosted: March 24, 2012 Filed under: Andy | Tags: Andy, Corgi, Lost Dog, New York Times Magazine 3 Comments
Some Fun on CameraPosted: March 7, 2012 Filed under: Andy | Tags: Andy, Corgi, Lost Dog Leave a comment
Video footage from a strategically placed camera (and rotisserie chicken) on the look out for Andy.


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After viewing The Cannonball Run for the 100th time this past week we started wondering the obvious question when faced with the prospect of a high speed coast to coast automotive competition. What car would you drive in a cross country race?
There was only one rule in The Cannonball Run and the actual Cannonball Baker Sea-To-Shining-Sea Memorial Trophy Dash upon which the movie was based:
"All competitors will drive any vehicle of their choosing, over any route, at any speed they judge practical, between the starting point and destination. The competitor finishing with the lowest elapsed time is the winner."
With that in mind we want to know what vehicle you would use for an unorganized and potentially illegal cross country competition.
In a sea of weird, ridiculous and exotic choices, I am making a prudent automotive decision for this QOTW. I would take a Pontiac G8 GXP across country. I've already learned many times in my quarter century on this planet that you can go a lot faster in a car that doesn't draw attention than a car that does. The GXP means a 415 horsepower LS3 V8 under the hood which combined with the far superior six speed manual transmission would have plenty of power to get me across country while remaining fairly low profile.
If you haven't watched The Cannonball Run, you should (it is
ridiculous and cheesy great), but first tell us, what car you would drive in a race across the country?


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President Barack Obama spoke few words in his inaugural address about all the crises around the world that demand American action. A passing reference to unwinding the war in Afghanistan. Nothing about pressing Pakistan to clean out its terror havens. Nothing about Iran�s approaching nuclear breakout.
Those are all known threats, of course. What Obama couldn�t know � what no one knows � is the next looming terror threat. The crisis that will hijack the administration�s foreign policy plans and goals. The grave challenge that will call for national resilience and resolve.
Even as Obama spoke in Washington, grim news came from the latest terror front to break into American consciousness: Mali and Algeria in North Africa. Thirty-seven hostages, including three Americans, were killed when Algerian military forces stormed a gas field complex in the Sahara.
That attack supposedly was launched in response to the French military operation against al-Qaida insurgents in nearby Mali, designed to stop Islamic militants from overrunning the country and establishing a terror haven, Afghanistan style.
Mali? Algeria?
Two weeks ago, neither country registered on most Americans� radar as terrorist hot spots. Now they do. The threat in North Africa demands a muscular American strategy.
What we know, from 9/11 and more than a decade of terror attacks around the globe: Any terror sanctuary can threaten the security of the U.S. and its allies. Al-Qaida-linked jihadists cannot be ignored. Osama bin Laden is dead, but these attacks demonstrate again that al-Qaida is very much alive in scattered cells around the world.
Officials in Algeria described �a well-organized, heavily armed group of militants who collected advance intelligence on the sprawling natural-gas complex, including its layout and foreign workforce,� The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday. �The attackers commanded an arsenal of missiles, explosives and guns that ... appeared to have been pilfered from Libyan stockpiles.�
That siege was sparked by a French incursion into another developing al-Qaida haven, Mali. Credit the French for sending troops, not merely voting for another feckless Security Council resolution � to stop al-Qaida terrorists from overrunning the entire country. The French have halted that advance and recaptured two important central Malian towns.
The American response so far? Underwhelming. France asked U.S. officials for logistical and other support in Mali. American officials promised help but dithered for days about the legal intricacies of providing surveillance planes as well as tankers that would be used to refuel French fighters in flight. The U.S. should provide the requested help. A quick and decisive response now is the best way to ensure that American soldiers won�t eventually be needed.
Some called that pre-9/11 decade a �holiday from history,� when America could claim its spoils as the world�s only superpower and defer bold action to keep developing threats at bay.
In a recent Foreign Policy article, �Over the Horizon,� author Martin Indyk highlighted �five unlikely but extremely destabilizing global crises� that Washington should prepare for. Those include a confrontation with North Korea and a security collapse after Western troops leave Afghanistan in 2014. He calls these �black swan� events. Albeit unlikely, these �could also define Obama�s second term, diverting the president from his intended foreign-policy agenda,� Indyk wrote.
Note: Neither Mali or Algeria made the list. No one knows where and when the next crisis will erupt. The only certainty: America can never take a holiday from history.
Chicago Tribune


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EDITORIAL: States resist setting up exchanges for ObamaCare
More than half of the U.S. governors are refusing to set up ObamaCare insurance exchanges, a situation President Obama and Democrats likely never imagined.
The exchanges, operated by either the states serving as conduits of federal funds or completely controlled by the federal government, are essential to make the national health plan work.
Fewer than 20 states, not including Michigan, are projected to have their own exchanges by Oct. 1, 2013. That is the date exchanges are to go online for uninsured people to shop for coverage for 2014, according to the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation.
Not a single Republican congressman or senator voted in March 2010 for the "Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act," known as ObamaCare.
The Hill, a media outlet focusing on Washington politics, said the Obama administration faces major logistical and financial challenges in creating health insurance exchanges for states that have refused to set up their own systems.
A majority of governors don't want to get stuck with the expense of setting up and operating exchanges, it said. Another problem is not all of the ObamaCare regulations are written.
Another roadblock to implementation of ObamaCare arose Nov. 26 when the Supreme Court ordered a federal appeals court to reconsider Liberty University's legal argument that ObamaCare violates the school's religious freedom.
The case will be returned to the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond, Va.
"Today's ruling breathes new life into our challenge to ObamaCare," Mat Staver, founder and chairman of Liberty Counsel, which filed the suit on behalf of the Christian school in Lynchburg, Va. "Our fight against ObamaCare is far from over."
Liberty's lawsuit argues ObamaCare violates religious freedom by requiring the school to purchase a health care policy that could indirectly contribute to the funding of abortion and birth control. And that, it is argued, would be a violation of the traditional separation of church and state.
It seems ObamaCare will face many obstacles until the first dollar of medical coverage is paid, and that is no sure bet.


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Browsing by Author "Odgaard, Anna Elisabeth"
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Nistrup Madsen, Bodil; Erdman Thomsen, Hanne; Lassen, Tine; Pram Nielsen, Louise; Odgaard, Anna Elisabeth; Hoffmann, Pia Lyngby (Frederiksberg, 2012)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: In this paper we will describe some problems related to the defini-tion of a set of data categories as well as to the import and merging of data from various resources. First, we illustrate how organizing a taxonomy of data cate-gories is facilitated by using the principles for creating a terminological ontolo-gy (or concept system). Next, we discuss how multiple terminological entries referring to the same concept can be identified with the purpose of merging them. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/8491
Files in this item: 1Nistrup_Erdman.pdf (833.3Kb)
Nistrup Madsen, Bodil; Odgaard, Anna Elisabeth (Frederiksberg, 2010)[More information][Less information]
Abstract: In order to develop a harmonised and efficient IT system, such as a database, it is important to be familiar with the underlying concept model (concept systems) for the relevant domain which the IT system should be designed to accommodate, as this forms the necessary firm foundation for designing the conceptual data model. Although there is no one-to-one correlation between concept and characteristic features in the concept model and classes and attributes in the conceptual data model, there are many similarities between concept modelling and conceptual data modelling, and by closely examining the relationship between the two models, we have strived to construct an algorithm for creating conceptual data models in Unified Modelling Language (UML) on the basis of concept models that adhere to the traditional principles and methods of terminology work. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10398/8284
Files in this item: 1bnm-aeo-TKE-2010-NEW.pdf (166.2Kb)
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