text:
Oh my goodness. Is December seriously here already?!
I feel like I was just eating turkey and stuffing and this cranberry orange cheesecake a few days ago. Oh wait…
Still, it looks like the final month of the year is now in full swing, which means that it's time to start planning out holiday gifts! For those of you who, like me, prefer to go the more affordable and DIY route, I can already say from this experience that this Pina Colada Granola recipe makes for a fantastic healthy holiday gift! I looks pretty darn adorable in a mason jar, it's quick and easy and healthy to make, and it's guaranteed to "warm" up any of your friends who might be wistfully dreaming about tropical getaways. Oh, and you might want to save some for yourself too. ;)
Speaking of gifts, I'm also stoked to announce that we are kicking off the month of December with a rockin' giveaway for two winners from Nature Box. (And — bonus — if you enter the promo code GIMMESOME, all of you great readers can get 50% off your first Nature Box order!) Read on for the details…
I wish I could tell you that the inspiration for this pina colada granola came after sipping frozen drinks out of a big pineapple with little umbrellas sticking out on a sunny, sandy beach somewhere. But alas, it's cold, it's December, and I'm still living in The City Farthest Away From Pretty Much All Beaches (yes, Kansas City).
Actually, the inspiration was much more delicious and came from receiving my latest shipment of snacks from Nature Box. For those of you who haven't yet heard of this brilliant company, Nature Box delivers hand-picked, healthy snacks to your door each month. (More about them with the giveaway below!) And it just so happened that this past month, the snack that greeted me upon opening that classic green box was a beautiful bag of dried pineapple rings.
Yes, rings.
No wimpy, overly-sugar-coated little pineapple bits here.
Just a bag of lovely, vibrant, "Big Island Pineapple Rings". They instantly made me think of my favorite island drink, a yummy pineapple coconut pina colada. And since I was due for a new batch of homemade granola, I decided to bust out some coconut (flakes + oil) along with some other favorite ingredients to make a batch of pina colada granola.
All you need to make it are some oats, nuts (I used pecans), coconut flakes (you could also use shredded coconut), honey, coconut oil, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, and lots of those beautiful pineapple rings.
Stir everything together, minus the coconut flakes and pineapple.
Pop it in the oven to bake for awhile. Then add in the coconut at the end and bake for a final 10 minutes. (I do this so that the coconut doesn't get too toasted.) And then once it's baked, toss the granola with the pineapple. And voila — pina colada granola is yours to enjoy. Or give away. Or both!!
Seriously, if you are looking for a healthier foodie gift alternative to cookies or desserts galore, I guarantee everyone would love a jar of this. And it's quick and easy and affordable. And it just tastes darn good.
(Scroll to the bottom of the page for the recipe.)
And speaking of holiday foodie gifts, I'm stoked that Nature Box is sponsoring a giveaway on the site today for two lucky readers to win a 6-month supply of Nature Box snacks!
I have long been a fan of Nature Box since a friend introduced me to them months and months ago. But for those who have not heard of Nature Box, allow me to introduce you.
In a nutshell (ahem, I especially recommend the Nature Box peppery pistachios "nutshells"), Nature Box is a subscription service that delivers 5 healthy snacks to your door each month. Each snack is healthy and nutritionist approved and made from ingredients you can feel good about eating. I'm not kidding. I can always recognize (and pronounce!) every ingredient listed on the back of each package. And each snack contains no high fructose corn syrup, no partially hydrogenated oils, no trans fats, no artificial sweeteners, no artificial flavors and no artificial colors.
But in addition to being healthy, I can vouch that these snacks are also super tasty. You can read about their selection of different snacks here. But I would personally recommend the Chia Seed Crackers, Sunshine Chips, Blueberry Almonds, Toasted Cheddar Stix, Lone Star Snack Mix, and of course, the Big Island Pineapple Rings. Literally, I have liked each snack I've received. (And as a bonus, many of the snacks are vegan, which has been a bonus for sharing with some of my vegan friends!)
So if you are looking for an awesome holiday gift that will keep on giving — either for a loved one, or even as a gift to yourself! — I wholeheartedly recommend giving Nature Box a try. If you enter the promo code GIMMESOME (or just click this link), you can even get 50% off any of the three box sizes. But I would also highly recommend entering the giveaway below as well. Just follow the directions on the widget below.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Happy holidays, and happy Nature-Boxing to you!
Pina Colada Granola
This pina colada granola recipe is healthy, simple, and full of great tropical flavor!
- 4 cups old-fashioned oats (or gluten-free oats)
- 1 cup pecans (or almonds, walnuts, etc.)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 Tbsp. coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract, store-bought or homemade
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1 1/2 cups coconut flakes
- 1 cup diced dried pineapple (I used Nature Box)
Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, stir together oats, pecans, honey, melted coconut oil, cinnamon, vanilla and salt until evenly combined. Spread mixture out on the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove sheet, sprinkle coconut flakes on top of the granola and gently stir them into the mix. Return sheet to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until coconut is toasted and the granola is cooked.
Remove sheet from oven and let cool to room temperature. Add in diced dried pineapple, and toss to combine.
Store in a sealed container and keep for up to 3 weeks.
If you make this recipe, be sure to snap a photo and hashtag it #gimmesomeoven. I'd love to see what you cook!
Disclaimer: This is a post and giveaway are sponsored by Nature Box. All opinions are 100% my own, as always. I'm just stoked to share about this cool and healthy product with you. So thank you for supporting the brands that make this site possible!
Leave a Reply to sara Cancel reply
214 comments on "Pina Colada Granola + Nature Box GIVEAWAY"
I would love to win so I could try all of the healthy snacks
I would love to win because they look awesome and I can't afford them.
Looks delicious! And I've been wanting a Naturebox subscription for awhile now!
I would love to win because I see all of the snacks and they look amazing. I'd love to have other snack alternatives for my son. :)
I try to make myself healthy snacks but I don't have time many times so getting them sent in the mail would be awesome
I'd love to try new foods!
I want this because it is healthy food…
I'm always looking for healthier snacks for family!
I need to eat healthier snacks instead of chips and candy
I've been super curious about these box subscription things and I live kinda in the middle of nowhere right now, so getting packages in the mail tends to brighten my day. I spend most of my life studying, so the least I can do = keep my diet clean! I love eating. :D
Pingback: » Giveaways–December 5, 2013
This granola looks fantastic! Love those chunks of pineapple. :)
Pingback: Around the Web – February 24th – Simply Wanderlust
Pingback: Granola Round Up | Emily Brungard


text:
MFS Blended Overlap Studies Bollinger Bands
MFS Blended overlap-studies tool provides you with the Overlap Studies execution environment for running Bollinger Bands study against MFS Blended. MFS Blended overlay technical analysis usually involve calculating upper and lower limits of price movements based on various statistical techniques. Please specify the following input to run this model: Time Period, Deviations up, Deviations down, and MA Type.
|BRLUX -- USA Fund
|30 Days Login to change
Incorrect Input. Please change your parameters or increase the time horizon required for running this function. The output start index for this execution was zero with a total number of output elements of zero. The Bollinger Bands is very popular indicator that was developed by John Bollinger. It consist of three lines. MFS Blended middle band is a simple moving average of its typical price. The upper and lower bands are (N) standard deviations above and below the middle band. The bands widen and narrow when the volatility of the price is higher or lower, respectively. The upper and lower bands can also be interpreted as price targets for MFS Blended Research. When the price bounces off of the lower band and crosses the middle band, then the upper band becomes the price target. View also all equity analysis or get more info about bollinger bands overlap studies indicator.
Additional Technical Research
|Cycle Indicators
|Math Operators
|Math Transform
|Momentum Indicators
|Overlap Studies
|Pattern Recognition
|Price Transform
|Statistic Functions
|Volatility Indicators
|Volume Indicators
Search macroaxis.com

subset: commoncrawl


text:
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." Matt 11:28-29 (NIV)
Tree of Life Christian Wilderness Expeditions
Youth Intervention and Substance Abuse Wilderness Treatment Program
TLCWE is a licensed professionally guided Christian wilderness expedition program designed to help troubled youth build values that are important in order to lead successful lives. Desiring to reflect Jesus Christ in all that we do, our enthusiastic seasoned staff uses biblical truth, modeling, and personal experience to teach about God's transforming power.
We offer overnight and weekend programs, as well as programs spanning 2, 3, 7, 21 and 60 days in duration.
Benefiting youth and families with positive, challenging experiences that transform lives.
TLCWE is for youth, adults, and families dealing with defiance, alcohol and drug use and experimentation, entitlement, issues of faith, attention disorders, behavioral issues, self-esteem, anxiety and depression, anger or other destructive issues. Teamwork, leadership training and personal recreation skills are offered to those who may be struggling or seeking positive challenges to benefit themselves, their family, and their community.
Our program begins with an assessment of individual needs and strengths. This includes a multi dimensional interview. The admissions and discharge criteria are based upon a 6 dimensional assessment to determine placement, continued stay and discharge to other levels of care.
Program methods include Individual, Group, and Family therapy. We use a Multi-Disciplinary team for individualized treatment planning.
Tree of Life Wilderness Expeditions is a 501(c)3 non profit Christian outdoor wilderness program offering counseling, mentoring, health education and life skills in a positive and challenging guided wilderness environment. Our program is certified as Oregon Outfitter/Guides through the Oregon State Marine Board.
What kind of activities do we offer?
Among other things, we provide recreation and education in
- Backpacking
- Snow Shoeing
- Health Education
- Team Building
- White Water Rafting and
- Rock Climbing.
We also offer Experimental Education and Group Processing.
Wilderness/activity/recreation is a method of challenging individuals through experiential education. Education groups as well as process groups are regular services we offer.
Our wilderness experiences provide real life situations in which Christianity is not merely talked about, but also lived out as we travel, live and work together. Relationship skills, cooperation and problem solving are used to work out daily challenges in God's awesome creation.
Our staff believes the best therapy is relational and are therefore dedicated to building strong relationship bonds, going beyond the wilderness experience to incorporate healthy relationships to families and communities.
Tree of Life provides young people, between the age of thirteen and eighteen, with positive opportunities to explore and discover a thriving God-honoring lifestyle.
Tree of Life staff designs programs that utilize individual, group and family counseling services. Transforming lives, healing and restoration are at the heart of the matter. At Tree of Life, Christian discipleship is our goal; the wilderness challenge is our means.
Why a wilderness program?
Simply put, Tree of Life uses the wilderness experience, as Jesus often did, as a catalyst to expose youth to the "reality" of their own need to purposely pursue a right relationship with God. Wilderness experiences are proven to effectively remove the "props" and "masks" defining our youth in today's culture.
Using "masks" to impress self and others, or hiding from self and others, doesn't fit in the wilderness. By separating youth from the physical comforts and familiarity of home, the wilderness experience will generate very unique dynamics providing for "teachable moments" which allow for Christian discipleship.
Tree of Life Christian Wilderness Expeditions operates in association with the following organizations


text:
On the 72nd hole of the tournament, Adam Scott and Angel Cabrera both hit what in separate years would have been Masters Moments™, instead they went to a historic playoff. This was the first time two players birdied 18 to force a playoff.
On the first playoff hole Scott and Cabrera teed off from 18 again. Cabrera very nearly put his approach shot in again, and Scott came up just short. Both men hit their putts and so they went on to the 10th hole, where they exchanged thumbs-ups on their way to the green, putting for the Masters. Cabrera left his putt hanging just off the lip of the hole.
He would tap in for par.
That left Scott with a 12-foot putt to win the Masters, which he sank like it was nothing. Our friend Jim Nantz said you always want to see someone win the Masters and not lose it, and Adam Scott won it with two huge putts—the first on 18 in regulation and the second on 10, the second (and final) playoff hole of the tournament. He won the Australian Masters last November and became the first Australian to win the actual Masters today.


text:
LAS VEGAS - The director and stars of the new cop comedy "The Heat" say they hope their film will provide some comic relief to Bostonians in the wake of Monday's marathon bombings.
Director Paul Feig, and actresses Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy promoted "Heat" Thursday at CinemaCon, the annual convention of theater exhibitors. "The Heat" casts Bullock and McCarthy as an FBI agent and a Boston cop forced together to take on a violent drug lord.
"The movie is such a love letter to Boston," Feig ("Bridesmaids") said on the press line before presenting the film's trailer to a theater full of exhibitors. "It's not a movie where it's supposed to be New York but it's shot in Boston," he continued. "This takes place in Boston. We have Boston natives in the movie, like Jane Curtin and (comic-actor) Bill Burr and (New Kids on the Block member) Joey McIntyre - all these famous Bostonians are in it. And if this movie can help Boston laugh, than that would be great."
There is at least one major explosion and some "Lethal Weapon"-style action violence in the film - portions of which were filmed last year in and around Boston.
Noted Bullock, "I think having been there, having had our entire crew around us all the time, who are all from Boston, you're just hoping. And when you see the aftermath, I try to look on the other side, which is, `Look how amazing the people were. Look at those people that ran towards everyone without thinking twice about themselves.'"
Bullock, McCarthy and Feig each expressed hope there would be screenings of the film in Boston to assist the bombing victims, but they said no plans had firmed up.
A spokeswoman for the film's distributor, 20th Century Fox, said via email, "We plan to screen the film in Boston timed to release. It's not pegged to a charity or recent events. Just a special screening in the town where it was shot."
"The Heat" is set to open in the U.S. on June 27.


text:
TRUTH will out???
Cameron Slater on TV3's The Nation this morning
An informative session, but there was one point in particular which resonated re the comment by Smalley re journalism.
Adam was reminded of this article by John Roughan recently
Roughan made the point that far too much 'journalism' was opinion and not facts. Yet Smalley and Edwards and to a lesser extent Ralston were this morning on TV3 criticizing Slater for focusing on opinions.
If we look at Fox News for example, much of its content is opinion rather than fact as is that of TVNZ, TV3 and Radio NZ, ZB etc to a greater or lesser extent in each instance.
The MSM is far too inclined to criticize without having regard to the motes in their own eyes on the world.
It would be useful if TRUTH under Slater really meant that.
Share this:
Comments are closed.


text:
A 14-year-old West Virginia student was suspended from school, arrested and faces charges for wearing a T-shirt to school supporting the NRA, his family said.
Jared Marcum, an eighth-grader at Logan Middle School in Logan, W. Va., said school officials asked him to remove his shirt, and when he didn't, suspended him from school.
"What they're doing is trying to take away my rights, my freedom of speech and my Second Amendment," Jared told WOWK-TV, Charleston, W. Va., Friday.
Jared's father, Allen Lardieri, said the school has failed to answer any questions about his son's case.
"I'm still confused, thoroughly confused," he said. "They school didn't even make a statement to the news agencies, much less myself."
"They gave me no paperwork, all they said to my mother was not to bring me back to school the next day," Jared added.
One question some sources had is why children aren't allowed to wear clothing depicting firearms when there is a statue of a soldier carrying a gun and a grenade in the school parking lot, WOWK reported.
"You can take the firearms out of the equation, what this about is fundamental rights," Lardieri said.
Benjamin White, Jared's lawyer, said he'll work on having the charges -- obstruction and disturbing the education process -- dropped, then file any federal or civil suits.


text:
(S)trong. (T)alented. (U)nique. (K)nowledgable
Women stuck or grounded in inner peace, love and strength.
A FEMINIST art & lifestyle brand x Design Firm.
With our art we aim to move people, inspire positivity & light and to celebrate the beauty of strong intelligent WHOLE women.
The word "stuck" literally means captivated by, infatuated with, and immovable. It means remaining persistent and holding faithfully. Thus, we chose the name STUK because it describes who we are, where we have been, and who we continue to become everyday.
The #STUKGIRL is independent, focused, and fulfilled body, mind, and soul. She transcends any dissatisfactory situation – instead becoming "stuck" on learning, growing, and evolving into her truest and best self. STUK has a deeply romantic core - Not a romance with fame, a man or material gratification, but a deep romance with life. Through art we wish to inspire self-sufficient women to live without fear and with inner love.
Hoodies by STUK DESIGNS
- DepartmentDeptApparel & Bags


text:
All-Star Locke 'not satisfied' in breakout season
MIAMI -- Little has gone wrong for left-hander Jeff Locke in this breakout season. The All-Star southpaw has been more than good. He has been elite.
The 25-year-old hurler entered Saturday ranked third in the Majors with a 2.15 ERA, and his 12 quality starts are the best total in a Pirates starting rotation that leads the National League with a 3.21 ERA.View Full Game Coverage
MIAMI -- Little has gone wrong for left-hander Jeff Locke in this breakout season. The All-Star southpaw has been more than good. He has been elite.
The 25-year-old hurler entered Saturday ranked third in the Majors with a 2.15 ERA, and his 12 quality starts are the best total in a Pirates starting rotation that leads the National League with a 3.21 ERA.View Full Game Coverage
Locke's numbers have impressed Pittsburgh manager Clint Hurdle, but the skipper is more enthused by Locke's approach.
"His preparation, his focus, his command, there's more in front of him," Hurdle said. "He's not satisfied."
Perhaps chief among Locke's strengths is his consistency.
Although Locke was not at his best in Friday night's 2-0 loss to the Marlins, he gave up three earned runs or fewer for a 17th consecutive outing and notched his fourth straight quality start on the road.
While talented, few expected Locke to enjoy a breakout year in his first full MLB season. Hurdle was blunt when asked what he thought of remaining doubts lingering around Locke.
"The critics probably didn't have him on the team," Hurdle said. "And they sure didn't have him winning nine games. So why not throw it out there that the second half won't be as good? Sooner or later, they might be right about something.
"I don't think many people had him making the All-Star team. I didn't. He's done things that I think only, at the end of the day, he believed he could get to. He's kept [critics] quiet, and he keeps doing it."
Critics may become louder if Locke endures more nights like his one on Friday. He gave up a season-high-tying eight hits in 6 2/3 innings, and his six walks were one shy of his season-worst total.
He threw first-pitch balls to 13 batters on Friday night, including four straight to begin the sixth. Opposing batters reach base against Locke at a .396 clip when beginning with a 1-0 count, compared to a .195 OBP when he throws a first-pitch strike.
"He pitches on edges at times," Hurdle said. "It's not uncommon for him to get some three-ball counts, and they got away from him [Friday]."
But when Locke puts guys on base, he usually strands them. Miami was just 1-for-6 with runners in scoring position and left 10 men on base against Locke.
Opponents are batting only .122 (9-for-74) against Locke with runners in scoring position. With men on base, Locke holds batters to a .193 (31-for-161) clip.
Walks have been an issue for Locke, whose 4.22 per nine innings are the most among Pirates pitchers with seven starts or more. Although Locke has minimized damage with men on base, he acknowledges his walk rate could spell trouble down the road.
Especially on nights when he is allowing more than his rotation-best rate of only 6.29 hits per nine innings.
"It's obviously something you'd like to command better," Locke said. "At the same time, I haven't really been giving up a whole lot of hits either. Whether they're walks or they're hits, they never really show up on the same night, but [Friday] they did."
Hurdle attributes Locke's walk rate to the fact that opposing batters have learned more about the left-hander, resulting in increased plate discipline.
However, considering the stellar season Locke is enjoying, Hurdle believes experience is the answer to Locke establishing better control moving forward.
"He set the bar extremely high early, and I still don't see him as a finished product," Hurdle said. "He's going to grow and learn and get better. And I expect those walk numbers will go down as he continues to pitch."
Joe Morgan is an associate reporter for MLB.com.


text:
Quick Links
- Laws & Regulations
- Budget Information
- Facts & Stats
- DDS Forms
- Publications & Other Resources
- Public Records Requests
- Appeals, Complaints & Comments
Documents identified by PDF (Portable Document Format) requires the Adobe Acrobat Reader to be viewed and printed. If you do not already have the Adobe Reader, it can be downloaded for free from Adobe.
Related Links
- Consumer Rights Complaint Process
- Fair Hearings Complaint Process
- Early Start Mediation Conference Requests
- Early Start Due Process Hearing Requests
- Early Start Compliance Complaints Process
- Title 17 Complaint Procedure
- Family Home Agency Appeals
- Vendorization Appeals
- Residential Facility Appeals
- Rate Appeals
- Regional Center/
Vendor/Contractor Whistleblower Complaints
- Consumer Complaint & Appeal Processes Manual
- Small Business and Disabled Veterans Advocates
Early Start Due Process Hearing Requests
The purpose of the due process procedures is to resolve disagreements between families and a regional center and/or local education agency (LEA) related to a proposal or refusal for identification, evaluation, assessment, placement, or services. Early Start is for infants and toddlers under the age of three who have a developmental disability or delay as defined by law. Early Start is governed by Part C of the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act:
- Title 34 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 303
- California Early Intervention Services Act, Government Code, Section 95000 et seq. ; and
- Title 17, California Code of Regulations, Sections 52000 - 52175
Any party seeking state level action on a disagreement falling into the category noted above may file a request for a due process hearing by filing a Due Process Hearing Request form-DS 1802 English | Spanish
This form may also be obtained from the regional center, LEA or the Department of Developmental Services (DDS). In addition, a letter of request is accepted by the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) in lieu of the request form if all the pertinent information is submitted and the letter is signed by the requester.
The Due Process Hearing Request should be filed with:Office of Administrative Hearings
Attention: Early Start Intervention Section
2349 Gateway Oaks Drive, Suite 200
Sacramento, CA 95833-4231
Voice: (800) 515-BABY (2229)
Fax: (916) 376-6318
Alternate Fax: (916) 263-0549
The due process hearing will be completed within 30 days from the receipt of the request by OAH. The timely issuance of the written decision may not be delayed by any informal local efforts occurring at the same time to resolve the matter. The decision will be final unless appealed to the superior court of appropriate jurisdiction.
While all parties are encouraged to resolve differences at the lowest administrative level possible, informal resolution(s) may occur at the same time that a request for Due Process Hearing and/or a Complaint is filed.
The "Parents' Rights: An Early Start Guide for Families" booklet provides in-depth information about procedural safeguards available to assure services are provided in a manner appropriate to the child's needs and the concerns of the family. If additional information is needed, contact your regional center, LEA, or the Early Start Program at 1-800-515-2229 or send an e-mail to: firstname.lastname@example.com.


text:
» You are here: Home » Order Tracking
Please allow 1 business day for your tracking number to be available on this page.
To track your order, please enter your Order Id and your E-mail Address below.
NOTE: Orders may be processed and shipped several hours before the information is actually posted to this page.
Illinois residents will be charged 8.00% sales tax.
This website is intented solely for viewing and purchasing by an adult audience. If you are under 18 years old (21 years old in some states) we ask you to leave this website. Please do.All models are 18 years of age or older.


text: Singapore is an island country located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, and is the smallest nation in Southeast Asia. Singapore is one of four remaining true city-states in the world. Prior to European settlement, it was the site of a Malay fishing village at the mouth of the Singapore River. In 1819 the British East India Company established a trading post on the island, which was used thereafter as a strategic trading post along the spice route. Singapore would become one of the most important commercial and military centres of the British Empire, and the hub of British power in Southeast Asia. The city was occupied by the Japanese during World War II, which Winston Churchill called "Britain's greatest defeat". Singapore reverted to British rule immediately postwar, in 1945. Eighteen years later the city, having achieved independence from Britain, merged with Malaya, Sabah and Sarawak to form Malaysia. However, less than two years later it seceded from the federation and became an independent republic. Since independence, Singapore's standard of living has been on the rise. Foreign direct investment and a state-led drive to industrialisation have created a modern economy focused on electronics manufacturing, petrochemicals, tourism and financial services. Singapore is the 8th wealthiest country in the world in terms of GDP per capita. This location has been recognized and published by the "New York Times" as one of the "52 Places to Go in 2015."View All Tours in Singapore


text:
Not Available For Sale
- Stimulant free formula
- Long lasting, intense pumps
- Reduce muscle soreness
- Improve mood and focus
- Mind blowing vascularity
White Blood 2 is the most complete stimulant free nitric oxide formula around. It will deliver out of this world pumps, bulging vascularity and cell bursting volumization. The White Blood 2 formula, simultaneously, includes potent anti-oxidants that will help to scavenge potential free radicals elicited by the production of nitric oxide. These two concurrent effects, not only make White Blood 2 the most effective stimulant free nitric oxide product on the market, but also the most healthful.
The White Blood 2 PRObloodTECTION complex includes allicin and ashwagandha, which are potent anti-oxidants that work together to support the immune system, improve mood and focus, support optimal testosterone levels and reduce muscle soreness, cortisol and Interleukin-6, allowing for a much more intense training session. As a bonus, allicin may stimulate eNOS activity, increasing the nutrient capacity of the muscle cells during the critical anabolic window. Coenzyme Q10 (another potent anti-oxidant) was added to improve cell function and enhance exercise capacity (without stimulants).
Controlled Labs added a potent dose of glycerol monostearate (Glycerol esterified with stearic acid), which is a unique hygroscopic compound that draws more fluid and nutrients into our muscle fascia, increasing cell volume to create a natural anabolic response. Efficiently absorbed and rapidly metabolized, glycerol is taken up by skeletal muscle (the uptake increases many fold during exercise) and a placebo controlled study revealed that subjects who had taken glycerol exercised significantly longer to fatigue. The osmotic and other benefits of glycerol may help to support increased protein synthesis, muscle mass and long term growth.*
The NOup complex includes norvaline (arginase inhibitor), osthole and icariin (a PDE5 inhibitor and testosterone mimetic), which work in synergy to provide longer lasting muscle "pumps", dramatic vascularity and support optimal hormone levels for muscle growth.
White Blood 2 is the most complete and healthful stimulant free nitric oxide product available. If you crave an awesome new gym experience that includes mind boggling pumps, enhanced vascularity and amazing cell volumization, make White Blood 2 your new preworkout formula today.


text:
In April of 2010, Apple determined that the Apple Headphones with Remote included with the iPod shuffle (3rd gen) might fail under certain conditions. A very small percentage of iPod shuffle owners have experienced this issue. These headphones were included with the iPod shuffle (3rd generation) made between approximately February 2009 and February 2010, and were replaced, free of charge, for two years from date of purchase.
Apple completed this program on November 6, 2012.


text:
Cold weather outdoors means it's time to get crafty indoors. When the weather gets cool, the kids and I like to tackle snowflake crafts. We were thrilled to master the art of making the 3D Paper Snowflake. 3D Paper Snowflakes look super cool and are actually quite simple for children to make with the help of an adult once you know the step by step instructions.
How to Make 3D Snowflakes
Here's our tutorial and instructions for how to make a 3D paper snowflake with photos so you can really get a feel for the process. It is easy once you know how to do it, but as you can tell the snowflake is complex so it does take a dose of patience along with the knowledge of the right steps.
My 7 year old was able to help me make this and she was fascinated by the process and very proud of her final result. My son just turned 5 and he definitely did not have the patience to help, but he was totally wowed by our 3D snowflake masterpiece.
Here's what you'll need: 6 Pieces of White paper, and Scissors, Scotch Tape. A mini stapler is optional for connecting the snowflake together however, we used scotch tape for our version showed here.
Step by Step instructions on how to make a 3D Snowflake with Photos
Step 1:
Cut each of your 6 pieces of paper into a Square. Create a square by folding it like this and then cutting off the scrap. You'll do the below steps 6 times to create the 6 "arms" of your snowflake.
Step 2:
Fold your square diagonally so that it is now a triangle. Cut along the folded line approximately 6 times like this.
Step 3:
Position your snowflake like this as you prepare to fold the pieces together to get your 3D look.
Step 4:
Begin to fold and tape your snowflake. Start from the inside by taking the 2 corners along the fold line and tape them together. Tip: Remember to always work from the fold line when bringing pieces together.
Step 5:
Flip your snowflake over. Next, repeat the above process of folding the next 2 corners along the fold line and tape them together.
Step 6:
Flip your snowflake over again. You will repeat the folding, taping, and then flipping the snowflake over to repeat the process until complete.
Step 7:
After you have all 6 sides made, you are ready to connect all the pieces to complete your 3D snowflake.
Start with 2 of your individual "arms" or pieces that you made. Now, you will connect them in the center like this with a small piece of scotch tape – or if you have a mini stapler that works well too.
Step 8:
Next connect the 2 "arms" of the snowflake together at their tips with scotch tape to form the CENTER of what will be your 3D snowflake.
This is a great time for kids to help with the process. Kenzie loved putting it all together with me.
Step 9:
Continuing adding sides of your snowflake to the main body of the snowflake until it is complete. Tip: Remember to tape each new arm in 2 places as you connect it to the main body of the snowflake. (Both in the center of the arm and taping the tip of the snowflake to all the other pieces at the new CENTER of your 3D snowflake)
Our snowflake has 6 sides but you could make a bigger one if you'd like, however, we find that 6 works great since it is more symmetrical.
After your done your masterpiece, your snowflakes will look great hanging from a chandelier or as a centerpiece at the kitchen table surrounded by regular paper snowflakes.
Disclosure: Thanks to Walmart for sponsoring this post to inspire families to get crafty with their children. As always, all thoughts and opinions are our own. This is a sponsored post. I'm a participant in the Walmart Moms Program. Walmart has providedcompensation for my time and efforts in creating this post. Participation in this program is voluntary and the opinions stated above are entirely my own.


text:
A new trailer for the upcoming Doctor Who title from Supermassive Games has been released that shows the game's co-op in action. Epic Games also had a significant announcement about the technology powering the game.
The trailer shows Doctor Who and his companion River Song in split-screen co-op gameplay. The two are seen running, engaging in some platforming action, avoiding enemies, and solving puzzles. One puzzle shows Doctor Who trying to fix a circuit on the Eternity Clock, another shows a missing piece of paper in a journal, another shows some kind of puzzle with two different areas to monitor, and one shows what appears to be a door-unlocking mini-game or puzzle of some kind. The trailer shows gameplay footage, cutscenes, and split-screen co-op action throughout before closing to show the March 2012 release timeframe.
Also, Epic Games has announced that Doctor Who: The Eternity Clock is the first PS Vita title to use the popular engine Unreal Engine 3.
To view the co-op trailer, click on the video below:
Doctor Who: The Eternity Clock will be released for PS3 & Vita via PSN this March.
Will you be picking up Doctor Who: The Eternity Clock? Let us know in the comments below.


text:
Russell Crowe could be in line to star in a science fiction blockbuster... but which one? Hunger Games star Josh Hutcherson explains what makes Peeta Mellark tick. Alex Kingston reveals River Song's Doctor Who future. Plus a big Walking Dead rumor debunked!
It's spoilers all the way down!
Top image from The Hunger Games.
The Hunger Games
Peeta Mellark actor Josh Hutcherson explains his reactions to seeing the movie, as well as how he relates to his character:
'I just saw it for the first time yesterday and it's great, so much fun. The 3D really draws you into the story and takes you along for a great ride.
What's your connection with Peeta?
It's the belief of not letting something change you, which is very much a driving force in Peeta's motivation throughout the stories. That's completely who I am.
Lionsgate just announced the movie will have a one-week IMAX-only run starting March 23, 2012. [Coming Soon]
Ender's Game
Viola Davis, who just scored an Oscar nomination for her work in The Help, has reportedly been cast as a military psychologist in the upcoming adaptation of Orson Scott Card's novel. [Variety]
Darren Aronofsky has reportedly zeroed in on a replacement for Christian Bale, his original choice to play Noah in his big-budget reimagining of the biblical story. Russell Crowe is reportedly the new main contender, though it's not clear whether any negotiations have actually begun for the part. However... [Deadline]
Robocop Reboot
...Crowe is also rumored to be a contender for the title role in Jose Padilha's reboot. There's not much beyond that to either of these rumors so far, so take it all with a grain of salt until we hear something more substantial. [@TheInSneider]
Snow Piercer
The Help actress Octavia Spencer has reportedly joined The Host director Bong Joon-ho's adaptation of the French graphic novel Le Transperceneige. Spencer will reportedly play one of the passengers on the snowbound train powered by "a sacred perpetual-motion engine" that is carrying the remnants of humanity through a post-apocalyptic ice age, joining the previously cast Chris Evans, Tilda Swinton, Jamie Bell, John Hurt, and Song Kang-ho. Spencer's character reportedly joins a revolution led by the lower classes on the train in order to save her son. [Heat Vision]
Vin Diesel has released another photo of himself from the set of the third Riddick movie. [Vin Diesel's Facebook]
Evil Dead Reboot
Red Riding Hood actor Shiloh Fernandez has reportedly signed on to play the male lead in Fede Alvarez's reboot. Mirror, Mirror's Lily Collins was originally signed on to play the female lead, but she has since dropped out. [Variety]
Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children
Kick-Ass and X-Men: First Class writer Jane Goldman talks about her work writing the script for Tim Burton's adaptation of the novel about an orphanage full of children with paranormal abilities:
"It's quirky, I would say. It has really dark and scary moments in it, but there will be humor in it, it will be very perky, a little off-beat. It's very funny!"
Goldman also discusses the adaptation of this Image Comics series about a a woman who escapes her disappointing life in the distant future to live in a virtual world:
"It's futuristic, it's incredible. Science fiction is not a genre I'm used to [writing], but it's my favorite."
Short Circuit
Dimension Films has reportedly hired Matt Lieberman to write the screenplay for director Tim Hill's remake of the 1980s robot comedy. [Coming Soon]
Doctor Who
Alex Kingston isn't revealing anything specific about River Song's future on the show - though really, I don't think there's that much question she'll be back eventually - but she does say that her other commitments won't keep her from reappearing:
"You may see her again. Who knows? Let's just say, Upstairs Downstairs and Doctor Who don't film at the same time."
The show is reportedly going on a three-week hiatus at the beginning of March, but it will then end the season with eight new episodes in a row. [SpoilerTV]
Game of Thrones
John Snow actor Kit Harrington talks about the character's relationship with the newly introduced Ygritte, as well as season two in general:
It's a tempestuous relationship. I'm not allowed to go into details, but I will say that it's nice for John to meet a woman, I think... Episode nine is a big episode... He gets to fight more. In season one it was all training yard stuff, and now the world he's going into it's much more real. The fighting he has to do is for real, it's not play fighting.
He said that he doesn't share any more scenes with Peter Dinklage, but he did praise his new costars Simon Armstrong and Rose Leslie, who play Qhorin Halfhand and Ygritte respectively. For more cast interviews, you can check out a two-part interview with new addition Liam Cunningham, who plays Davos Seaworth, here and here. [MTV]
The Walking Dead
I was pretty sure this was coming ever since horror mainstay Tom Savini off-handedly revealed Winter's Bone actor John Hawkes was in line to play the Governor next season, and now here it is: John Hawkes's publicist has issued a statement simply saying, "John is NOT appearing on The Walking Dead." So, there you go. [MTV Splash Page]
In other casting rumors, Marvin Duerkholz, who you probably don't remember as Cody on MTV's Teen Wolf, is listed as playing Philip Eagle on IMDB's page for the season three premiere. Since this is just a random IMDB cast listing we're talking about, I'd take this with a gargantuan grain of salt. [IMDB]
AMC has released another promo for the show's upcoming return. You can check it out here.
The River
Executive producer Zack Estrin reveals how their found footage supernatural horror series draws on genuine folklore for its stories:
"We're sort of culling from real legends and lore of that region in the Amazon. So, for as many episodes as we are blessed to have, we've got spooks and scare things for a week-to-week basis, based on real stuff from down there, real scares."
Being Human (UK)
Here's the official description for the third episode of series four, "The Graveyard Shift", which is set to air February 19:
Hal is unaccustomed to modern life, having kept himself sheltered from society to avoid the risk of killing. So when Annie and Tom tell him he needs to get a job, he is filled with dread.
Faced with the horror of working in the café with Tom, Hal is tempted by vampire Fergus to come back to the vampire fold as their new leader. Meanwhile Annie is convinced by Regus that the baby should be taken away to safety, or the vampires will surely kill their 'destroyer'. But when Fergus and his gang attack the house, Annie needs to prove that with Tom and Hal that they are a strong enough team to protect the baby… but are they?
Being Human (US)
Here's a promo and sneak peek for the next episode, "I Loathe You for Sentimental Reasons", which airs February 6.
The Vampire Diaries
Here's an extended promo for next Thursday's episode, "Dangerous Liaisons."
The Secret Circle
Here are some promo photos for the February 16 episode, "Return", in which Cassie confronts her estranged father, the powerful dark witch John Blackwell. [TV Line]
Lost Girl
Here's the description for episode eighteen of the second season, "Fae-nted Love":
Kenzi and Trick must race to save Bo from the fallout of a steamy night gone awry before it binds the Succubus for a millennium. In its wake, Bo poses very uncomfortable questions to Trick about her origins.
Here are the episode titles for the rest of season two:
2.16 "School's Out"
2.17 "The Girl Who Fae'd With Fire"
2.18 "Fae-nted Love"
2.19 "Truth and Consequences"
2.20 "Lachlan's Gambit"
2.21 "Into the Dark"
2.22 "Flesh and Blood"
Additional reporting by Jennifer Griffith-Delgado and Charlie Jane Anders.


text:
In response to Ed Konecnik's letter and concerns about "redistributionists" (What is fair? - 5/29); redistribution is when capital gains are taxed at a lower level than labor-generated income.
Redistribution is when companies move their headquarters overseas so as not to pay any taxes at all. Redistribution is that, in spite of record profits, oil companies pay no taxes and are even subsidized
Redistribution is when mega-farms are paid not to grow crops and food stamps get cut. Redistribution is when Walmart pays employees below-market wages and are then subsidized by government to pay for those people on food stamps.
Redistribution is when the National Football League is a non-profit and has paid no taxes since 1962. Redistribution is when the rich can write off the expense of private jets.
The "rich" are not the enemy and neither are the poor. What is deserving is a tax code that is equitable and not have misinformation and talking points that frame the facts as Mr. Konecnik does.
Stewart J. Frimer
Forest Hills


text:
We have thousand's of tradesman covering the Mayfield (DE6) area. Whether you need a local boiler engineer or a handyman in Mayfield, simply pick a trade and get quotes ASAP.
Simply post your job for tradesman in Mayfield . All relevant tradesman nearby receive an alert, generating the best offer for the lowest price for your job. Based on reviews, you can pick your pro, allow them to contact you and get your job done for the best price for you. It's simple, easy and allows you to get on with the bigger things in life whilst we look for you. All you have to do is pick the best quote!
Welcome to Ever Dry Roofing Ltd Knowing you have selected a roofing company with an outstanding record for customer satisfaction will go a long wa...
Distance: 10.3 mile(s)
Location: DerbyGet Quote
Stewart Domestic Plumbing, a pioneer provider to quality Bathroom and Kitchen Designs installations in and around Derby. With over several years of ex...
Distance: 12.4 mile(s)
Location: BelperGet Quote
Need help on a project or have an emergency? Post your job for free and get quotes ASAP.


text:
Cake plates are awfully pretty...
...but cupcake plates are freaking adorable.
And why not put it on a pedestal? It's like a shrine to the sweetest type of experience there is, the cupcake: a treat you don't have to share with anyone else.
And now, the cutest individual cupcake plates in the world, made by the super-talented Michelle Miller, are available at CakeSpy Shop (both online and in the retail store!).
Giveaway Alert!! One lucky reader will win one of these plates, in a sweet summery light green! Just leave a comment below saying what type of cupcake you'd use first on this pretty little plate.
The giveaway will close next Friday, July 23, at noon, and the winner will be contacted shortly after. US entrants only this time, please!
Shop available colors here, or come visit the store at 415 E. Pine Street, Seattle WA 98122!


text:
If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us today. We look forward to providing you with the personal care you deserve.
See our reviews with the Better Business Bureau
Scan the QR code above with your smart phone!
Galleria Smile Designs Hours:
View Larger Map
Bruceville Family Dentistry Hours:
Office has moved- please select alternate location above.
Where do I start? I don't know if I can find the words to express how great my experience has been at Dr. Vu's dental office. I have lived in dental offices most of my life. For the past few years I have neglected my teeth. My mouth was a mess! I had several teeth missing and the ones I had left were terrible. I have been seeing Dr. Vu for almost 3 years now. Slowly but surely she has been repairing the mess my mouth was in. The difference is astounding! Just look at the pictures! Most people take for granted being able to smile freely. I hadn't smiled fully in years. I tried to find pictures of my old teeth to show people but couldn't find any because I would NEVER smile. Now I can smile freely! All my friends and people I haven't seen in a while see me and are blown away!
Dr. Vu and her entire staff have always been extremely professional, helpful and caring. Her office is gorgeous and has all the latest equipment. She utilized "Laser-Water" dentistry in her practice. Dr. Vu told me one "If I can't help people restore their smiles than I feel I have failed". She hasn't failed, she has changed my life! I will always be indebted to Dr. Vu for giving me back the freedom to be happy, to be able to smile and feel like I'm beautiful once again.
Candice J.
Fair Oaks, CA
I send my heartfilled THANKS to Dr. Vu and all her staff. Her staff's professionalism and caring nature touched me. She treated me with the dignity and respect even with my inability to pay. Dr. Vu game me her full services and in a spirit of excellence. Thank you to the NFDH and Dr. Vu for donating her time to my care.
Lorraine B.
Site Developed by ProSites.com


text:
Reasons to buy cassette tapes
Last weekend a friend couple ended up the night coming home for some tea, chess and chat. I changed the record in the player to the beautiful white marble Fire + Ice's "Birdking" vinyl, and that led to a conversation around music, where I, perhaps annoyingly, ended up bragging about my music colection showing this or that vinyl or CD, mostly talking about artwork, limited editions and what attracted me about this or that album. Nothing too extensive or boring (I hope, for their sake).
At one point I showed the latest C-Utter release (actually because of its artwork and packaging, uncommon for a tape), and got as a reply "now that's something I don't understand". It was simple: my friend understands everything about why I prefer physical to digital (music-wise), and what's the attraction about vinyl records or (more commonly understood) CDs. But cassette tapes? Why? They went to their homes before I had the chance to reply, but the question stood on my head. So here's one possible reply:
Most people that buy cassette tapes do it by fetishism. I can understand that, and it's more or less similar (or even a sub-case) to the "physical release fetishism), and, like every other fetishes, it actually has an emotional part, not mandated by reason. But that's actually not my case, not in the particular case of cassette tapes. I want physical releases, and a cassette tape is a physical release - and that's as far as I can go fetishism-wise.
So what are the reasons why I buy cassette tapes?
Well, one of them is that... cassette tapes are cheap. Really cheap. No, I mean it. As an example, I can tell you about my second to last cassette tape purchase: a Thanatos album. I bought it directly to the record label that released it - at the time in two formats, tape and CD. The CD version costs $13.98, the tape version (the last copy, I suspect) cost $0.99 (or something like that, I don't want to lie, but if it wasn't that it was only a couple of cents less). See the difference? Exactly the same album, different formats. Well, I listen to tapes anyway, I have tapes anyway, it's not like I have a burden, or that I'm buying a lesser version. For me, it's more or less the same, only super-cheaper. Is this a reason or what?
But there are other reasons. That C-Utter cassette, "Urban Hermits", was only released on tape. The same thing about Astra Autisma's latest, self-titled, release. And this is more common than you would believe. So, what to do? Refrain from having that album or buying it on tape? No question here, this is a great reason to buy compact cassettes.
Finaly, the most arguable one, but one that I'm paying more and more attention (maybe because I am also a recording artist). Preservation. Yes, you heard it right. People talk to me about the cassettes saying "but they break the tape, heat messes with them, they're unreliable, it takes a lot of time of putting it back together when something happens with its tape"... but they're not looking to two crucial (for me) aspects: not only tapes "degrade gracefuly" (the sound gets poorer, but it doesn't just stop working, unlike CDs or digital files), but they actually have more longevity. What does that matter? Well, my music colection is actually already crumbling to dust. Several CDs unplayable, one cassette tape dead (recorded in 1976, 33 years ago), and counting. What percentage of it will I be able to play out in a decade? Will my grandsons be able to listen to the music I created? To me, preservation matters. Oh, sure, you can shoot me a "if you want preservation, go vinyl!". And I agree. But tapes are way cheaper to manufacture, so there's lots of music on tape you can't find on vinyl.
I understand if you still think buying tapes is silly. Really. Also, I don't mind :-) But, there, here are my reasons (or at least the ones I can remember of at this time of the day, my cup of tea is already empty, which must mean this blog post is bigger than it should) to buy compact cassettes.


text:
Multimodal Analgesia Versus Routine Care Pain Management (MMA)
|The safety and scientific validity of this study is the responsibility of the study sponsor and investigators. Listing a study does not mean it has been evaluated by the U.S. Federal Government. Read our disclaimer for details.
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01861743
Recruitment Status : Terminated (data was not collected accurately)
First Posted : May 24, 2013
Last Update Posted : August 29, 2018
- Study Details
- Tabular View
- No Results Posted
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
Most patients undergoing surgery experience significant post-operative pain. Inadequate peri-operative pain management may decrease post-operative mobilization and increase length of hospitalization. Additionally, poorly managed acute post-operative pain analgesia is associated with an increased risk of developing chronic pain and delayed wound healing.
Lumbar spine surgery is particularly painful, often requiring a multi-day hospitalization. The most common post-operative analgesia used in spine surgery is narcotic medication delivered via an intravenous patient controlled analgesia (IV PCA).
A multimodal peri-operative pain management protocol for spine surgery has the potential to not only decrease pain but also to improve recovery, decrease narcotic consumption, decrease length of stay in the hospital and reduce both direct and indirect hospital costs.
The purpose of this study is to determine if post-operative pain and rate of recovery are improved in patients undergoing spine surgery using MMA compared to usual analgesic care.
|Condition or disease
|Degenerative Disc Disease Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Lumbar Spondylolisthesis
|Other: Multimodal Analgesia Other: Patient controlled analgesia
|Not Applicable
We hypothesize patients undergoing spinal fusion who receive peri-operative MMA will have:
- decreased post-operative pain compared to patients receiving usual care for pain management.
- shorter hospital LOS compared to patients receiving usual care pain management.
- fewer analgesic-related post-operative complications (urinary retention, ileus, etc) compared to patients receiving usual care pain management.
- improved physical functioning at the time of hospital discharge compared to patients receiving usual care pain management.
- better short and long term outcomes. Subjects will be randomized to MMA (Group 1) or usual care (Group 2). The unit of randomization will be a week (Monday through Sunday). Each week will randomly be assigned to MMA or usual care. Subjects who are hospitalized into a consecutive week will continue with the pain regimen they were assigned upon hospitalization.
|Study Type :
|Interventional (Clinical Trial)
|Actual Enrollment :
|42 participants
|Intervention Model:
|Parallel Assignment
|Double (Participant, Investigator)
|Primary Purpose:
|Official Title:
|Multimodal Analgesia Versus Routine Care Pain Management for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery: A Prospective Randomized Study
|Study Start Date :
|April 2013
|Actual Primary Completion Date :
|December 31, 2016
|Actual Study Completion Date :
|December 2017
Experimental: Multimodal analgesia
multiple analgesic medications utilized in a synergistic manner to control pain while minimizing side-effects of individual drugs due to decreased doses. This includes pre-operative patient education, intra-operative pain management and post-operative pain protocols.
Other: Multimodal Analgesia
Subjects are given medications preop, intraop and postop that implement a multi-modal approach to managing pain.
Active Comparator: Patient Controlled analgesia
Pain management using patient controlled narcotic analgesia.
Other: Patient controlled analgesia
Subjects will be treated with patient controlled narcotic analgesia for pain management.
- Numeric pain scale [ Time Frame: Patients will be followed post-operatively while in the hospital (Avg 1-3 days), and a 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year and 2 years. ](a) While in the hospital, patients' pain is assessed by a nurse-driven protocol. Assessments are every four to six hours, within 60 minutes after receiving an intravenous pain medication and within 90 minutes of receiving an oral pain medication. This assessment includes rating subjective rating of ones pain on a verbal numeric rating scale (NRS) of 0-10. The maximum pain score for each post-operative day will be compared.
- Patient satisfaction [ Time Frame: Post operatively (avg: 1-3 days) ]At each pain assessment (minimum every 4 hours), partients are asked if they are satisfied with their pain management. (yes/no)
- Length of Stay [ Time Frame: Post operatively (avg: 1-3 days) ]
- Discharge destination [ Time Frame: Post operatively (avg:1-3 days) ]Determine whether patients are discharged to home or to another facility (e.g. rehab, etc)
- Adverse events [ Time Frame: Post operatively (avg: 1-3 days) ]
- Disease specific and General health outcome measures [ Time Frame: Pre operatively (within 1 month of date of surgery) and Post operatively (6 weeks, 3months, 6 months, 1 year and 2 years) ]Short form 36 and the Oswestry Disabilty Index
Choosing to participate in a study is an important personal decision. Talk with your doctor and family members or friends about deciding to join a study. To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the contacts provided below. For general information, Learn About Clinical Studies.
|Ages Eligible for Study:
|Child, Adult, Older Adult
|Sexes Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
Inclusion Criteria:
- Patients undergoing single level MIS-TLIF
- Patients able to provide informed consent
Exclusion Criteria:
- Allergies or other contraindications to medicines in the protocol
- Current liver disease with documented liver function test abnormality
- Current renal disese with documented glomerular filtration rate (GFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73m2
- Baseline (pre-operative) opioid use greater than 30 mg of morphine equivalents/day
- Active alcohol dependence
- Active illicit drug dependence
To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the contact information provided by the sponsor.
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier (NCT number): NCT01861743
|United States, Illinois
|Rush University Medical Center-Orthopedic Spine
|Chicago, Illinois, United States, 60612
|Principal Investigator:
|Frank M Phillips, MD
|Rush University Medical Center
Publications of Results:
|Responsible Party:
|Frank M. Phillips, MD, MD, Rush University Medical Center
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|NCT01861743 History of Changes
|Other Study ID Numbers:
|First Posted:
|May 24, 2013 Key Record Dates
|Last Update Posted:
|August 29, 2018
|Last Verified:
|August 2018
|Individual Participant Data (IPD) Sharing Statement:
|Plan to Share IPD:
Multi-modal Pain Management
Lumbar fusion
Spinal Stenosis
Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
Spinal Diseases
Bone Diseases
Musculoskeletal Diseases


text:
Cheap games offer great value for toddlers
It's one of my favorite times of the year – Little League season. Baseball games are always intriguing because you just never know what's going to happen next. Sometimes you're awed by a seemingly miraculous double play and other times you just can't help but fall over laughing when the right fielder misses a fly ball because he's too busy break dancing.
But something else has intrigued me for the second consecutive Little League season — the game playing ability of one team member's 3-year-old sister. This child sits quietly and patiently throughout the two-hour games playing a variety of gaming apps on her mother's iPhone. I decided to inquire and cozy up to this single-digit gamer, who like I said, was gaming last year at the age of 2.
Come to find out, this not-yet-potty trained "i" girl, has five favorite gaming apps: Monkey PreSchool Lunchbox, JellyCar, Tozzle, Talking Lila the Fairy, and Doodle Cake.
For 99 cents, Monkey Preschool Lunchbox can be downloaded and includes seven games for kids ages 2-5. There is no navigating, just push and play with easy flow from one game to the next, all led by an endearing monkey. Kids not only learn to recognize and match colors, letters, numbers and shapes but they also hear the names of the same. Unlimited play is offered along with stickers when they win a game.
Spend another 99 cents and get JellyCar, now in its third version. Just as the name implies, it features a squishy car driving through a squishy world to reach an exit. There are 28 levels and more parts to maneuver on your device than Lunchbox, requiring some coordination. Players have to touch the screen on the right to drive right, left to go left, etc. Devices have to be tilted to rotate the car, and cars can be touched to make them expand or blow up momentarily. It's a simple game, likened to Angry Birds and Tiny Wings, that any preschooler can play but adults are enjoying, too. The latest version allows car design, more levels and secret exits. Parents beware — this Disney game offers in-app purchases.
The priciest app the little league sideliner plays is Tozzle, a puzzle game available for a whopping $1.99. It's really a darling game with 42 different puzzles for the choosing. Kiddos pick a puzzle like one of the most recent added, a beach puzzle, then touch, drag and drop pieces from the side of the screen and insert them into the picture in the middle of the screen. It's a great way to learn shapes and sizes. If, after the third try, a toddler doesn't select the right piece, an arrow points to indicate the missing piece. The pieces also make characteristic sounds. Even after the puzzle is complete, players can touch the pieces and hear the sounds again. Really cute and entertaining!
It's almost too good to be true – little girls can have their own fairy to talk to. For only 99 cents, Talking Lila the Fairy will flutter her wings and repeat what your child says. Lila will make faces, giggle, sing, spin on flowers and cast magic spells. Games don't get easier than this but they also don't get any more mesmerizing. Little girls are enamored by the winged nymph. There are other "Talking" apps, too, like Talking Carl, which boys might enjoy.
When I was kid, I made Easy Bake brownies in my kid oven — as well as a huge mess. Now parents can let kids make cakes on a gaming app called Doodle Cake Bake … no mess, no sugar high and only 99 cents. There are 14 different recipes of cakes from peanut butter to pineapple and 18 varying styles including round, square, topsy turvy, square double round, two-heart tier, etc. Kids crack the eggs, add the ingredients and put the cake in the oven. They can then eat it, save it or e-mail it to a friend to show off the confectionary creation. Doodle apps are a-plenty. There's cookie and candy doodle, etc.
If not for these educational and entertaining apps for my Little League friend, it's likely her parents would miss a lot of their son's baseball moments. And because it's never too soon to introduce tiny people to the touch-screen world we live in, download these on your Apple and Android device.


text:
Dean Saunders sacked by Wolves following relegation
Wolves have sacked manager Dean Saunders and have begun the search for their fifth permanent manager in less than 15 months.
Saunders, 48, replaced Stale Solbakken in January, but won just five of his 20 games in charge and could not prevent Wolves from dropping into npower League One, the club's second successive relegation.
The midlands club lost five of their last six matches of the season and former Doncaster boss Saunders is followed out of Molineux by assistant Brian Carey.
A statement released this morning on the club's website read: "Manager Dean Saunders has been informed by Wolves that his contract is to be terminated.
"The decision has been made following confirmation of Wolves' relegation to npower League One. Assistant manager Brian Carey will also be leaving the club.
"Wolves have now begun a recruitment process, which, in conjunction with the board, will be managed by head of football development and recruitment Kevin Thelwell.
"The club will now take as long as is necessary to make this crucial appointment and there will be no publicly communicated timescales.
"Wolves would like to thank Dean and Brian for their efforts in what has been a very difficult period for everyone, and wish them both the very best for the future.
"The club will be making no further comment at this stage."
Wolves owner Steve Morgan sacked Mick McCarthy, who had spent five and a half years in charge, in February last year with the club struggling at the bottom end of the Barclays Premier League.
McCarthy's assistant Terry Connor was appointed until the end of that season, but Wolves were relegated to the npower Championship with three games remaining.
Connor was sacked the following July and Stale Solbakken, who had lost his job at Cologne the previous month, was charged with guiding Wolves straight back to the top flight.
But the Norwegian made little impact at Molineux and after just half a season, with the club lying 18th in the Championship in January, he too was sacked and replaced two days later by Saunders.
Former Liverpool and Aston Villa striker Saunders, who began his managerial career at Wrexham, took over as Doncaster manager in September 2011.
He was unable to halt Doncaster's slide into npower League One last season, but galvanised the South Yorkshire club and steered them into second place in the table before leaving to take charge of Wolves.
Doncaster secured an instant return to the npower Championship with victory at Brentford on the final day of the season under Brian Flynn, who has since stood down as Rovers manager.
PA Media


text:
To Be or Not to Be Self-Published
24/05/12 06:41 Filed in: Writing | Self-Publishing | The Other Alexander | Cover Art
Carrie Slager has asked me to offer my thoughts about self-publishing, why I chose that route for my series The Bow of Heaven, and what I think about the self-publishing industry in general.
If you were an author trying to get your novel published the old-fashioned way around 2005, but wound up instead going the self-publishing route, then it's almost a certainty you had been rejected by every traditional agent and publisher on the planet. How do I know this? From experience. The stigma clinging to the word "self-published," much of it warranted, was palpable.
Times changed, from the publishing industry's perspective, almost overnight. So much so that now, I don't think it matters what Carrie or I or anyone else thinks about the rise of self-publishing. (Back in the 1960's and 1970's, network television was up-in-arms over something called cable and pay-per-view. What? Pay for TV when you can get it for free? Yeah, like that will ever catch on.) There is no stopping this tidal wave of words, and ultimately, I think it's a good thing.
My Dad used to tell me, "Look, son, I know you're scared to pick up the phone to ask Peggy to the movies, but think of it this way: if you ask 100 girls for a date and 90% of them tell you no with a capital "Are you nuts?" you'll still have dates with 10 different girls." 100 girls? I knew Peggy. What was my father thinking? Plus, he was a charming cross between Ronald Reagan and Dean Martin. I was a cross between Woody Allen and another Woody Allen. You see my point: there may be tons more worthless words yakking for our attention, but there will also be more worthy, entertaining offerings of eloquence by authors who otherwise would have had the mahogany double doors of traditional publishing slammed in their faces.
Self-publishing has given the old chestnut "power to the people" brand new relevance. Until very recently, traditional publishers hoarded that power like Scrooge hoarded farthings. They'd peer over their pince-nez glasses and with a Dickensian sneer be very pleased to tell the rest of us just what we ought to be reading. Those days, in my opinion, are almost over. For good.
True, we are going to be wading through fields of chaff to find a few grains of wheat, and as readers, we're going to need help sorting it all out. Traditional critics have their hands full just keeping up with those New York Review of Books titles, and I can guarantee you they will sniff and turn their backs on 99% of everything else. 89% of the time, they're probably making the right decision. Twisted analogy coming up: but what about those ten worthy girls stamping their feet out in the cold? At least for the time being, we have to rely on all of the rest of us to know what to read and what to leave sitting on the virtual or print-on-demand shelf. Whether you hate a book or love it, review it! If there are more writers, there need to be more critics. Book bloggers and just plain old readers will see us through these new and wondrous times.
Carrie caught about 15 typos in The Other Alexander. I was appalled. Because before she got her hands on a copy, I had
picked through that final manuscript like a hungry mother chimp grooming her baby for snacks. And I had two other people do the same thing! We owe it to our readers to be as grammatically, typographically perfect as possible. Having said that, I don't think it's quite as big a deal as Carrie does. I'll give a book three typos before I start grumbling. But here's the best part – self-publishers can go on taking corrections from their readers forever. It doesn't cost a thing to upload a revised, error-free version of their oeuvre. Just don't let as many nits slip through your comb as I did.
A word about cover art. I have heard from a smattering of readers and reviewers, Carrie included, who found the original cover (on the left), to quote one critic who otherwise loved the book, "bizarrely hideous." I hear and I obey. Very shortly, new versions of both the ebook and paperback editions will be released with professionally designed covers. Unless you're a graphic designer, get help. (The fine artist whose work you are admiring on the right is Lynnette Shelley. Go to her website; you will find a little of the bizarre, but nothing remotely hideous.)
Proofreading, it must be said, is not editing. The original version of The Other Alexander was so far removed from the copy you're going to rush out and buy when you finish reading this it would be unrecognizable as the same novel. I had a lot of help. I needed a lot of help. I would love to have gained from the wisdom of a professional editor holding my hand throughout the entire process, but then I would have had to type much more slowly. And it wasn't in the budget. But I did have several people whose opinion I trust tell me the many places I had gone wrong. The first book in the series has been out almost a year and they're still telling me. Here it is in a laptop case: if you haven't revised your novel from top to bottom at least three times, odds are you're at least two times shy of getting it right.
I'm afraid I do not agree with Carrie that aspiring authors ought to go the traditional route. It is no small thing to have control over your work and to earn a far greater percentage than you ever will with the big houses. The trick is to recognize you cannot go it alone. Other eyes, preferably trained, need to vet your writing. Of course, if the main reason you're sequestering yourself for hours at a time over the span of any number of years is to be able to go to a bookstore, point with pride to a display window full of hardcover copies of your bestseller and say, "I did that," start polishing those query letters. And good luck with that.
For the rest of us, and by that I mean everyone minus nineteen, write the best book you possibly can, self-publish and see what happens. If it's as good as you think it is, it will get noticed. And if the big houses come knocking, you can decide if their advance is worth the loss of control. We should all be so lucky.
One last thought: whatever you do, be sure to publish an ebook edition. Here are some stats from publisher Robin Sullivan. In May of 2011, Amazon sold more Kindle ebooks than paperback and hardcover combined. At the end of 2010, ebooks accounted for 8.3% of total trade sales; by February of last year, ebooks constituted 29.5% of the total, higher than any other category (hardcover, mass market or trade paperback).
Whether you decide to self-publish or go the traditional route, it's a great time to be a writer … and a reader.


text:
Follow RFF News on your cell phone. Text follow rff to 40404 you will receive txt messages with RFF News
0 Members and 2 Guests are viewing this topic.
It looks as if a China franchise is getting off the ground.
Amazing Race China is looking for a number of production roles to be filled immediately.The show is a team-based, race-structured competition that follows 10 teams through 12 different cities in China as they compete for first place. Along the way they must complete tasks in each city and battle each other to avoid being eliminated.Production is scheduled to begin in late April/Early May running through mid-June with post-production scheduled to continue until September. Each episode will involve three day shoots in each city with a day break in between.
Somehow I think you might just have to be Chinese to qualify for this race.
casting call: chinese version of the amazing race Got this news from a press release... Disney-ABC International Television Asia Pacfici has signed an agreement with Shanghai Media Group for it to produce a local version of the hit reality series The Amazing Race in China.The show, titled China Rush, is a 12-episode series to be shot in locations across China. The name sounds like an energy drink, but it could be kind of cool. Interested in being on the show? They're currently seeking English-speaking applicants -- no Mandarin skills necessary -- from anywhere in the world to be on China Rush:The Amazing Race: China Rush is now seeking english-speaking applicants 18+ from anywhere in the world.No Mandarin Skills necessary to qualifyFLY Films and International Channel Shanghai (ICS) are looking for English speaking contestants to take part in this exciting reality TV show set to be filmed in China between the end of April 2010 and June 2010.Ten teams of two will carry out tasks in cities across China to compete for the grand mystery prize. Do you have what it takes to win?Complete an online application form at http://www.chinarush.tv/Deadline: Monday 29 March 2010PROJECT: "THE AMAZING RACE: CHINA RUSH"CASTING CALL CATEGORY: REALITY TV SHOW AUDITIONSCONTACT: WWW.CHINARUSH.TVChina Rush will premiere in August 2010 and will air weekly to audiences in China. The show will be telecast in English, with Chinese subtitles, on SMG's International Channel Shanghai network. For more information, and to apply to be on the show, go to the China Rush website here.
All applicants MUST understand and speak English.If you have previously applied for THE AMAZING RACE (the Program), please DO NOT re-apply. Duplicate entries will not be considered.Applications must be submitted by MONDAY, March 29, 2010
The shooting schedule will take place between the end of April 2010 and June 2010, with broadcasting dates running from August 15 until October 31. The program will be broadcast in English, with Chinese subtitles, and will be put together by an international production team. There will be 20 international contestants on 10 teams, all from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Throughout the series they will carry out a series of competitive tasks in order to find the key to the following weeks episode. As this will be judged against the clock, one of the teams will be eliminated on a weekly basis. So it is not simply a test of individual capability, but also of emotional strength and teamwork. The eventual winners will receive a very special, mystery grand prize. China Rush will offer a unique platform to explore and promote Chinese culture through its great cities, perfectly complementing the 2010 Expo philosophy of Better City, Better Life.
'Amazing Race' Rushes to ChinaDisney-ABC preps regional version of popular seriesDisney-ABC has partnered with Shanghai Media Group to produce a local version of The Amazing Race series in China.Titled China Rush, the series will be shot at locations across China and air weekly to audiences starting in August 2010. The season finale will air in October, coinciding with the end of the World Expo 2010 in Shanghai.The show will be telecast in English with Chinese subtitles on SMG's International Channel Shanghai network."China Rush will showcase the best of Chinese culture, cities, cuisine and cordiality; as participants travel far and wide across our great nation throughout the game show," said Xu Hao, assistant president of SMG. "Working with Disney enables us to adapt a popular global program format for our audiences in China."Rob Gilby, senior vice president and managing director of Disney-ABC Asia Pacific, said the show is the optimal example of bringing Disney's expertise to work with SMG's experience and capabilities to serve the Chinese-speaking communities.SMG's venue is the only English television channel in Shanghai and it currently broadcasts to 4.7 million families in the city.
Amazing Race Heads to ChinaBy Mansha DaswaniPublished: March 18, 2010BEIJING: Shanghai Media Group has acquired the rights to produce its own version of the Emmy-winning reality series The Amazing Race, via a deal with Disney-ABC International Television.Airing on CBS in the U.S., the show has already been successfully adapted in Asia by AXN, with three seasons completed and a fourth in the works. The Chinese version, China Rush, will run over 12 episodes and will be shot at locations across the country. DAIT is set to provide format expertise as well as consultation to the production team at SMG for the series, which premieres in August. The finale will air in October to coincide with the end of the World Expo 2010 in Shanghai. The show will air in English, with Chinese subtitles, on SMGs International Channel Shanghai (ICS) network.The Shanghai Media Group is committed to bringing the best in entertainment to our audiences," said Xu Hao, assistant president of SMG. "Our programs capture the spirit and vitality of this vast country. China Rush will showcase the best of Chinese culture, cities, cuisine and cordiality; as participants travel far and wide across our great nation throughout the game show. Working with Disney enables us to adapt a popular global program format for our audiences in China."Rob Gilby, senior VP and managing director of DAIT Asia Pacific, added: The Walt Disney Company has a tradition of creating programs that resonate with viewers across the world. The Shanghai Media Group has established itself as a major producer and distributor serving the Chinese-speaking communities worldwide. China Rush is the optimal example of bringing our expertise to work successfully with SMGs experience and capabilities to produce a world-class version of one of the most universally popular game shows ever.
Maybe it's an Amazing Race: China for non-Chinese?
Quote from: Dånooky on March 04, 2010, 11:13:45 PMMaybe it's an Amazing Race: China for non-Chinese?told ya
I'm confused!!!When is the deadline for the submission of the application form??Is it on MARCH 29..OR..APRIL 2?
march 29Quote from: amazingracer24 on March 20, 2010, 01:49:55 AMI'm confused!!!When is the deadline for the submission of the application form??Is it on MARCH 29..OR..APRIL 2?
18 yrs old and above according to the eligibility requirements!!!But according to the application form,it must be submitted by APRIL 2!!I'm really confused!!! March 29?April 2?March 29?April 2? HELP!!!!!
Quote from: Evan_Weinstein on March 20, 2010, 02:51:00 AMmarch 29Quote from: amazingracer24 on March 20, 2010, 01:49:55 AMI'm confused!!!When is the deadline for the submission of the application form??Is it on MARCH 29..OR..APRIL 2? How many RFF have planned to join it?? I must say that, had I had the required age, I would have already sent my application form. PS: Is this a 18+ or a 21+ race? I mean, the required age.
Page created in 0.163 seconds with 32 queries.


text:
MACHESNEY PARK - "Fix my street and I'll vote for you." That's what voters in older parts of the village are telling the candidates for president.
Inside: Candidate bios, village trustee race details
MACHESNEY PARK - "Fix my street and I'll vote for you." That's what voters in older parts of the village are telling the candidates for president. Trustee Jerry D. Bolin, former village administrator Bob Mullins and newcomer Shawn Hoffman would like to tell constituents that they're next on the list. "Roads are a priority," Bolin said, noting that 24 miles of roads are to be resurfaced or rebuilt in the next seven years. The trouble is, there's just not enough money in the bank to pay for it all now, although specific taxes OK'd for road and drainage problems are whittling away at the problem. Retail developments along the booming Illinois 173 to North Perryville Road and beyond will help pay for repairing those older roads and much more. Sales tax is critically important to the village, which doesn't levy a property tax. The candidates agree that the Meijer superstore planned for Perryville and 173 will be a welcome anchor for other retail development. "We have a golden opportunity with the I-90 corridor," Hoffman said. And Mullins said there's even more to look forward to: The area just beyond the Meijer property is poised for warehouse and distribution development. "We desperately need family-supporting jobs." The utility tax approved in January is one issue in which the candidates have varying views. The tax cost to residents: an average of $8 a month. The issue could be revisited after April 9. Along with a new president — Tom Strickland is not seeking re-election — three of the six trustees will be new to the position. Hoffman wants residents to vote on the utility tax. Bolin, who voted against the tax, and Mullins said the new Village Board should discuss whether to eliminate the tax. Another hot-button issue is whether the village administrator should have so much control. Bolin hopes the board will reinstate some authority to the president. Hoffman said the president should play a role in employee evaluations and assess possible pay increases. Mullins is OK with the village administrator being in charge of day-to-day operations because it allows the president to focus the vision for the village and work in lock-step with the board. The new president will make $47,000 for each of the four years in the term, $20,000 less than Strickland makes.
Georgette Braun: 815-987-1331; firstname.lastname@example.com; @georgettebraun
The candidates
Jerry Bolin
Age: 63
Career: Trustee, Machesney Park; machinist at Gleason Cutting Tools in Loves Park; supervisor roles at other local manufacturers
Accomplishments/quotes: "As trustee, I answered every call and email. ... I have been very active in the budget process. ... Even with the economy that we've been in the last four years, the board and staff have been able to keep a balanced budget and maintain a healthy reserve."
Contact: 815-633-1960; firstname.lastname@example.com
Shawn Hoffman
Age: 35
Career: Gaming industry employee based in Elgin
Accomplishments/quotes: "It is time for a new direction, a new approach. ... Machesney Park has great potential because of possible businesses wanting to build in the village, so I also feel that we must work with neighboring cities and business developers."
Contact: 815-262-8867; shawnhoffmanformayor2013
Bob Mullins
Age: 67
Career: Retired; Harlem Township trustee since 2009; director of administration and finance for Machesney Park, 2001-10; Machesney Park administrator, 2010-11
Accomplishments/quotes: In his 10 years with the village, "the team I led was responsible for unprecedented growth. We made the 173 shopping corridor happen. ... My team developed the Build Machesney Roads program. ... We began the redevelopment of the Machesney Mall property."
Contact: 815-703-0488; email@example.com
Village trustee
Races for three seats on the Machesney Park Village Board are contested:
District 1: Ed Langley vs. Robbin Snodgrass
District 3: James A. Kidd vs. Mike Meier
District 4: Aaron Wilson, Harrietta Terrell, Michael K. Simons (all write-ins)


text:
Magikarp is, fins down, the most worthless Pokémon of them all, but that doesn't mean it isn't capable of transforming your upper body into a fine paste. How can this be?
I'll let the deadly Pokémon experts at VSauce3 answer that question. They go into exhaustive detail about how a seemingly harmless Magikarp description element could translate into a pile of dead people at the base of every regulation-sized mountain.


text:
EricStewart necesitaba un nuevo diseño de logotipo y lanzó un concurso de diseño en 99designs.
Un ganador ha sido elegido entre 252 diseños de 80 diseñadores freelance.
Avenue to Wealth
We are a company that is buying apartment building and converting them to modern Condo units.
We are looking for people who want to get into Real Estate investing without the headaches that can sometimes be associated with it. We are managing the properties and suppling tenants for the purchased real estate. Basically we are targeting people who have a little extra money and wish to get a taste of Real Estate Investing
We are looking for a clean strong logo design to represent this project.
We would like to see the phrase "Real Estate Made Easier" appear in the logo.
The logo does not necessarily need to incorporate a literal representation of Real Estate (house, building, roofline), although we are not completely against it if it is well designed
No cartoons please, we want a professional image for our project.
Please feel free to experiment with colors, as we do not have any color requirements.
The files we will require are:
Print file format - .ai (CMYK)
Web file format - .jpg and layered .psd (RGB)
Please do not use any stock images or clip art in the logo
Descubre cómo funciona un concurso de diseño u obtén más información sobre nuestros servicios de diseño de logo.


text:
While we were on our trip to Jack's memorial in Atlanta, we had to eat out several times. On the way back we stopped for lunch at Ruby Tuesday. I had eaten at a Ruby Tuesday a couple years back & knew that I could eat a burger & steamed veggies & salad at the very least. Imagine my surprise when I was speaking with the manager & he knew what I was talking about! I had started to explain and when I asked him if he knew what I was talking about, he said yes & went on to say that he was going to go print me out a menu of things I could eat. I inquired about cross contamination, especially after my experience at Cracker Barrel a couple days before (long story short……not safe for anyone following a gluten-free diet). The manager said that the staff is specifically trained on food allergies & the dangers of cross contamination. Great news! You can view the gluten-free and other allergen information here. I ended up ordering a bison burger with havarti cheese, steamed sugar snap peas & sauteed portabella mushrooms. I also had a huge salad from the salad bar. I wish my camera wasn't buried in the back of the car at the time, but I wasn't expecting this to be a blogging experience. I checked out the bar before deciding to order it and had my own dressing with me. All of the items (mostly veggies) I included on my plate were at the end away from the pasta salads, won tons, croutons & dressings. Though they did have a couple gluten-free dressings, they were dangerously close to gluten-filled items. If I had not brought my own dressing, I would have asked for dressing from the back or used the EVOO & vinegar that was out.
Now, for the news you have all been waiting for……the winner of my giveaway last week.
Thank you all for playing. The winner is……………………………………………..
Liz, on November 3rd, 2009 at 5:39 pm Said:
It would be awesome to have the Denby – Serve! 9.5″ Small Divided Dish for parties or even when friends stop by unexpected. Its beautiful and simple!
Congrats Liz!! Please contact me at: firstname.lastname@example.com with your contact information so I can get it to CSN.
Filed under: Family, Gluten-Free, Gluten-free Eateries |


text:
Your Best Choice for Design, Printing, and Mailing Services!
For over 100 years, Scranton Printing Co. has been operating under the same family name, priding our self in what we believed from day one and still stand behind today; Quality, Customer Service, & Price. These ideals are the bedrock of our company's foundation, and believe that these standards will continue to push us forward into the next 100 years of business.
Our full commercial printing facility is housed in a 43,000 square foot building equipped with a graphic design department, full color printing presses, digital presses, and a bindery department for that last piece of the puzzle.
Brochures, books, catalogs, continuous forms, envelopes, labels, letterheads, magazines, maps, order sheets, packaging boxes, postcards, posters, rack cards…you name it: we can print it.
We also have DIRECT MAIL SERVICES, and could do specialty work such as die-cutting, embossing, flood aqueous, and spot varnish to name a few.
Get A Custom Quote


text:
EDITED JULY 2013 TO ADD: Black Rose Writing now says that it no longer requires its authors to buy books, and has sent me a sample contract that does not include a book purchase clause. I've received emails from authors confirming this, and there's also confirmation in the comments on this post. Nevertheless, the general caution applies: if a publisher asks you whether you plan to buy your own books, be on your guard.
"How many books are you planning to order?"
Many writers are aware that it's a major red flag when a publisher's contract includes a clause requiring authors to buy their own books, or to commit to some kind of sales guarantee. Since an outlay of cash is a condition of publication, this is vanity publishing--what we at Writer Beware call "back-end" vanity publishing, since you're buying into the end of the publication process (finished books) rather than the beginning (paying for the book to be produced).
Stealthier back-end vanity publishers rely on pressure and encouragement, rather than contract clauses, to get authors to purchase their own books. They may produce "author manuals" that extol self-purchases with promises of huge profits, or employ "publicists" whose sole job is convincing authors that buying their books for re-sale is essential to success, or offer frequent special deals and discounts (buy 50 books, get 10 free!) to make self-purchases as attractive as a sale on canned soup at the grocery store. Since inexperienced authors may not know a lot about how publishing is supposed to work, they can be easily ensnared by this kind of deception.
Still other publishers that focus on author self-purchases are well-intentioned amateur efforts run by people who have no professional publishing experience, little or no financing, and, often, no concrete business plan. Because of their lack of capitalization and marketing expertise, it's very tempting for such publishers to settle into a business model where they rely on their authors as their principal customer base and sales force. This creates a closed loop, in which published books are marketed mainly to the books' creators--all but eliminating the publisher's risk, and even possibly, guaranteeing a small profit. It's this kind of publisher that's most likely to ask you the question with which I began this post, rather than surprising you with contractual purchase requirements or bombarding you with special offers post-publication--since its intentions are basically benign, and it's not consciously trying to deceive or screw you.
Intentions aside, the author is the loser in all three of these scenarios. A publisher that relies on its authors as a main or major source of income is considerably reducing--if not entirely removing--its incentive to market and distribute the books it publishes. Why should it bother trying to sell books to the public, when it can turn its authors into customers? Why should it expend money and effort on getting books into the hands of readers, when it can persuade writers to function as an unpaid sales force, buying their own books and then re-selling them?
In each case, the publisher is failing to do what publishers are supposed to do: get books out into the world. While it's certainly true that authors nowadays are expected to self-promote, the self-promotion an author can do and the marketing a publisher should do are two different things--and without your publisher's active marketing and distribution support (I'm not talking here about writing press releases or getting books listed on Amazon), you have very little platform on which to build your self-promotion efforts. You're likely to wind up in much the same position as if you'd self-published--except that you'll probably have a more restrictive contract, a less professional product, and, in the case of the more unscrupulous back-end vanities, a considerably smaller bank account.
So if a publisher asks you about your plans for buying your own book, be on your guard. Even if the publisher isn't obviously a vanity, even if it assures you that it's only collecting preliminary data and declares that your answer will have no bearing on its decision, the mere fact that it's thinking about author self-purchases at this early stage of the game is reason enough to move on.
(This post, by the way, was inspired by a real example: Black Rose Writing, which recently moved from just asking about authors' purchase plans, to actually including a purchase requirement in its contract.)


text:
Celebration of India Donor Recognition Dinner and auction
Arthur M. Sackler Gallery | Freer Gallery of Art
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Join us for a glittering evening inspired by Diwali, India's festival of lights. Be transported to the fragrant gardens and opulent palaces of Rajasthan as you enjoy a festive dinner and private viewing of Garden and Cosmos: The Royal Paintings of Jodhpur. Meet His Highness Gaj Singh II, the maharaja of Marwar-Jodhpur, whose ancestral collections are featured in the exhibition. Later in the evening, take part in our Garden and Cosmos Live Auction of fabulous India-themed luxuries.


text:
Yes there are course cut off times.
Swim – 2 hour 20 minutes
Bike – 10 hours 30 minutes from the start time
Run – 17 hours from the start time
Course maps are available online here or by selecting the 'Athlete > Course' tab above.Back to top
The course isotonic and gel provider that will be available on race day will be confirmed in the coming months.Back to top
The course will be marked in kilometres.Back to top
The aid stations will be approximately every 15 – 20km. A detailed map indicating the aid station locations will be released closer to the event day.Back to top
Typically the aid stations will be spaced 2km apart.Back to top
Please check the Event Schedule for details of compulsory bike racking. ALL athletes must rack their bikes during this time.Back to top
Click here for more information about the local bike shops.Back to top


text:
To enjoy the full Mail & Guardian online experience: please upgrade your browser
31 Dec 2012 14:23
Traffic officers. (Gallo)
"It is premature to call for anybody to be penalised for this incident before the investigation is concluded," he said in a statement.
"Only after the investigation can we then determine whether anybody can be blamed, that is what justice demands." Mchunu was responding to calls by the Inkatha Freedom Party for him to resign following the deaths of seven people during a Road Traffic Inspectorate recruitment drive in Pietermaritzburg.
The seven died during a 4km run, which was part of a fitness test held at the city's Harry Gwala stadium on Thursday and Friday. One of the seven allegedly committed suicide.
Mchunu suspended all tests for Road Traffic Inspectorate jobs while his office investigated the matter.
"To us this is a tragedy and we don't think any blame game will assist.
More than 34 000 people had qualified to apply for the 90 advertised trainee posts. A total of 15 600 applicants attended the fitness test on Thursday, and a similar number on Friday.
An unknown number of them collapsed due to the heat. Many were taken to hospital. The SA Communist Party in KwaZulu-Natal commended Mchunu for his swift action.
IFP MPL Blessed Gwala said: "What happened in Pietermaritzburg was a classic display of being power-drunk, to an extent treating ordinary suffering people as subhuman."
"No one in their right mind could in the first place short-list about 35 000 people for just 90 jobs." – Sapa
Create Account | Lost Your Password?