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major macro economic indicators
|GDP growth** (%)
|Inflation (yearly average, %)
|Budget balance*** (% GDP)
|Current account balance (% GDP)
|Public debt*** (% GDP)
*Fiscal year 2018: April 2018 - March 2019
**Changes to the methodology in February 2015
***Includes Central government debt and State governments debt (f): forecast
- Diversified growth drivers
- High levels of savings and investment
- Efficient private sector in services
- Moderate level of external debt and comfortable foreign exchange reserves
- Lack of infrastructure and shortcomings in the education system
- Bureaucratic red tape and persistent political tensions
- Net importer of energy resources
- Rising level of private firm indebtedness
- Weak public finances
- Persistent uncertainties over the Kashmir issue
Growth is expected to rebound
Real GDP is expected to grow quicker in 2018, supported by strong performance in the services sector, after a slight slowdown at the end of FY 2016/17 due to the demonetisation decision of Modi's administration in November 2016 (withdrawal of the 500 and 1000 rupee notes). Household consumption was negatively affected by this measure, and its impact on the informal sector, although difficult to quantify, has been significant.. However, improved financial integration of the poorest households should support demand in the long term. Inflation reached a record low on June 2017, and remains below the central bank's target of 4%. A combination of lower commodity prices and a dip in key agricultural products contributed to this decline, enabling the central bank to lower rates in July. However, it is expected that inflation will increase in 2018, as the federal VAT system (Goods and Services Tax, GST), which was implemented on July, exerts upside pressure on prices.
The private sector should continue to benefit from the impact the Modi government's reforms, aimed at boosting India's manufacturing sector, attracting FDI, and reducing constraints burdening the economy. India jumped 30 spots to 100 in this year's "Ease of Doing Business" ranking by the World Bank. However, non-performing loans in the banking system have impacted the monetary policy transmission mechanism by keeping borrowing costs high. This has hindered domestic companies' willingness to borrow money and invest. Reforms aimed at cleaning up the banking system have been put in place, but these take time and could impact the supply of credit, despite the Reserve Bank of India's loose stance. Higher government expenditures in infrastructure (transport infrastructure and utilities) should offset this weakness.
Willingness to improve public finances
Fiscal deficit and public debt levels remain high, but the country has initiated plans to reduce them. The most notable of these initiatives is the introduction of the GST, which aims to boost fiscal revenues and make the economy more competitive in the long term, despite some disruption in the short term (higher prices). Fiscal consolidation efforts are facilitated by low energy prices, which remain subdued in line with global oil prices (India is a net importer). In addition, measures to demonetise a portion of outstanding bank notes should improve budget revenue by reducing the weight of the informal economy.
The current account deficit is expected to increase slightly. The increase in imports is partly due to the rising demand for gold after demonetisation. Deficits in the trade balance and income balance are likely to worsen, and the services surplus should also reduce.
The rupee is expected to remain relatively stable in 2018, but like other emerging currencies, it remains vulnerable to a rise in global risk aversion and a faster-than-expected rate of monetary policy tightening in the United States. Foreign exchange reserves are set to remain at comfortable levels (nearly ten months of imports in 2017), and FDI and portfolio investments are on an upward trend.
Narendra Modi supported by regional elections
Narendra Modi's party, the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party), won the regional elections in March 2017, gaining 312 out of the 403 seats in the lower house in Uttar Pradesh. This is the most populated state and so is often considered a "popularity barometer" for the government. The victory helps to further strengthen Modi's position, two years ahead of the next national elections. Demonetisation seems to have weighed on household consumption, but was eventually perceived as a commitment to his campaign proposal to combat inequality and root out corruption. However, as the Congress Party continues to dominate the Upper House, the reforms long-awaited by the business community are delayed.
Kashmir remains a source of tensions between India, Pakistan and the separatists of the region. Diplomatic talks were suspended after an attack on an Indian base in Punjab on January 2016, and relations between the two countries have deteriorated in recent months. New tensions have emerged after the Indian army shot the leader of the main insurgent movement, Sabzar Ahled Bhat, in Kashmir on May 2017. However, an escalation of violence is unlikely as Pakistan and India both have an interest in maintaining the status quo.
Last update : January 2018
Due to the increasingly developed banking network in India, SWIFT bank transfers are becoming more popular for both international and domestic transactions.
Standby Letters of Credit constitute a reliable means of payment, as a bank guarantees the debtor's credit quality and repayment abilities. Confirmed Documentary Letters of Credit are also recognised, although these can be more expensive, as the debtor guarantees that a certain amount of money is available to the beneficiary via a bank.
Post-dated cheques, a valid method of payment, also act as a debt recognition title. They allow for the initiation of legal and insolvency proceedings in cases of outstanding payments.
Debt collection
Amicable phase
The practice of amicably settling trade receivables has proven to be one of the most productive solutions, as it allows the parties involved to deal with the underlying issues of the settlement in a more efficient and cost-effective manner. Average payment collection periods vary between 30 to 90 days following the establishment of contact with the debtor. Local working practices mean that debtors pay directly to the creditor, rather than to a collection agency. Indian law does not regulates late payments, or provide for a legal enforceable late payment interest rates. In practice, debtors do not pay interest on overdue amounts.
Major issues in the country currently mean that debtors are facing huge financial difficulties. The situation has deteriorated since demonetisation in November 2016 and the introduction of the GST unified tax structure (the Goods & Service Tax), in July 2017. The other main reason for payment delays is the complexity of payment procedures and approvals by banks for the restructuring plans of major players in the manufacturing sector. India is faced with a severe problem of bad loans and most of them have been declared as NPAs by the banks. This deteriorating asset quality has hit the profitability of banks and eroded their capital, thereby curbing their ability to grant much-needed loans to industries for their restructuring and revitalisation.
Legal proceedings
Indian companies have a preference for amicable recovery methods, as the country's judicial system is both expensive and slow. There is no fixed period for court cases, while the average length is from two to four years. The statute of limitations is three years from the due date of an invoice. The statute of limitations can be extended for an additional three years, if the debtor acknowledges the debt in writing or makes partial payment of the debt.
Legal proceedings are recommended after the amicable phase, if debtor is still operating and in good financial health, is wilfully resisting payment, disputing the claim for insignificant reasons, not honouring payment plans or not providing documentary evidence.
Type of proceedings
Arbitration: Arbitration can be initiated if mentioned in the sales contract - otherwise the case can be sent to the National Company Law Tribunal (the NCLT) for registered companies.
Recovery Suits: Recovery suits tend to become a long, drawn-out battle and are usually regarded as best avoided.
National Company Law Tribunal: The NCLT was created on 1st June, 2016. It has jurisdiction over all aspects of company law concerning registered companies. Its advantages are that it can hear all company affairs in one centralised location and that it offers speedy processes (taking a maximum of 180 days). It also reduces the work load of the High Courts. The NCLT recently enacted a new Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code. Decisions of the NCLT may be appealed to the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT). The NCLAT acts as the appellate forum and hears all appeals from the NCLT. Appeals from the NCLAT are heard by the Supreme Court of India.
Insolvency proceedings
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, introduced in 2016, proposes two independent stages:
Insolvency resolution process (IRP)
The IRP provides a collective mechanism for creditors to deal with distressed debtors. A financial creditor (for a financial debt), or an operational creditor (for an unpaid operational debt) can initiate an IRP against a debtor at the National Company Law tribunal (NCLT). The Court appoints a Resolution professional to administer the IRP. The Resolution professional takes over the management of the corporate debtor and continues to operate its business. It identifies the financial creditors and holds a creditors committee. Operational creditors above a certain threshold are also allowed to attend meetings, but they do not have voting power. Each decision requires a 75% majority vote. The committee considers proposals for the revival of the debtor and must decide whether to proceed with a revival plan, or to liquidate, within 180 days.
A debtor may be put into liquidation if a 75% majority of the creditors' committee resolves to liquidate it during the IRP, if the committee does not approve a resolution plan within 180 days, or if the NCLT rejects the resolution plan submitted on technical grounds. Upon liquidation, secured creditors can choose to realise their securities and receive proceeds from the sale of the secured assets as a priority.
Under the current Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, the highest priority is given to insolvency resolution process and liquidation costs. Thereafter, proceeds are then allocated to employee compensation and secured creditors, followed by unsecured and government dues.


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PITTSBURGH (AP) — A bank robber nicknamed the "Bucket List Bandit" after allegedly telling a Utah teller he had just four months to live was sentenced Thursday to 11 years in federal prison for a string of heists spanning 10 states.
Michael Eugene Brewster's public defender told the federal judge who handed down the sentence that a medical evaluation found his client didn't have cancer or any other terminal illness.
Brewster's case made headlines after the Standard-Examiner of Ogden, Utah, gave Brewster the nickname because of the comment he reportedly made to a Wells Fargo Bank teller during a July 6, 2012, robbery in Roy, Utah. The FBI used the nickname to publicize subsequent robberies until they learned Brewster's real identity.
"The impetus for the crimes was greed, not grief," U.S. District Judge Sean McLaughlin told Brewster. His lawyer, Thomas Patton, declined to comment.
Brewster's sentence works out to a year for each of the 11 bank heists he committed across the country last year, though under federal sentencing guidelines, he might have received as little as 6½ years. Those guidelines, which take into account a person's criminal history and the seriousness of the crime, were increased because of the number of banks Brewster robbed, resulting in the longer sentence.
"Given what he did, and his age and all of the circumstances, he's going to be away a long time and substantially for most of the rest of his life," U.S. Attorney David Hickton said. "We're satisfied that justice was done."
Brewster, 54, formerly of Pensacola, Fla., was sentenced in Erie, the city 120 miles north of Pittsburgh where his nationwide robbery string ended Sept. 10. It began June 21, 2012, in Arvada, Colo.
Brewster was arrested three days after the Erie robbery when he ran a stop sign in Roland, Okla. Federal prosecutors brought him back to Erie and easily linked him to the other heists because he was seen wearing the same pale blue polo shirt, glasses and brushed back hair in surveillance videos.
According to court documents, Brewster stole a total of $33,858 and sometimes threatened tellers with violence and claimed to have a gun. Nobody was injured in the robberies.
The smallest amount Brewster stole was $632 from Landmark Bank in Columbia, Mo., on Aug 29, and the most he netted was $7,000 taken during the Utah heist that fueled his nickname.
Although the surveillance videos made it clear that one man was responsible for several robberies, the FBI didn't know who he was until a tipster saw news coverage of the Pennsylvania heist and gave agents Brewster's name and birth date.
In some cases, Brewster explained his actions by claiming to be terminally ill and, according to the FBI, specifically told the Utah teller, "I have four months to live."

subset: commoncrawl


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The French make it so easy.
The bookstores provide a gazillion ways to bake a cake or a macaron or a cupcake.
I found a Japanese version of these here in New York. So how come US publishers haven't figured out what fun this is?
sign me up for the madeleines kit!
but it's hard not to love the pastel melange of cupcake "papers"
I saw these in a big book store I was in, in Paris ,thought they were amazing .. not funny, just amazing :-)a brilliant idea.ReplyDelete
Too funny--when I first saw your watercolor, I thought, "how charming," and then I immediately burst out laughing, thinking: ????!!? Carol????!?!???
BAKING??? too cute. Looks like fun! When we were kids, we had a box with teeny cake tins in it and a cake mix--we made cakes and they were tiny--we loved it!
I'm glad you won't let a little detail like actually baking separate you from a fantastic package!!!! Eye on the prize as always: beauty and great design!ReplyDelete
Love the painting. The French are so far ahead of us most of the times. Cool idea to have it all in a box. Now if only the box would put it together too. :))ReplyDelete
Thank you Dearest Jeanette for reminding me of my negligent baking skills - AHEM!
Not all of us can make our own MARSHMALLOWS - ahem
And some of like to dream a bit you know...
Amy: not to worry. A madeleine is simply eggs, flour and butter, butter, butter. No coconut unless you live in the Tropics where only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the noonday sun.
Mille Paradis: the 'cupcake' papers are actually reusable silacon cups!
Leave it to the French.
I have always been a sucker for packaging! lol!
Though I must admit the only thing the inside of my oven ever sees is a chicken.
But what fun gifts!
I love the painting of the bake stuff. And it reminds me of the Klutz kits in the book store. VERY cute.ReplyDelete
Okay, I just love this post because it's purely about baking! The French do it so well, as you say. Plus, your first painting is just gorgeous! I want it!ReplyDelete
I love these and I want them all!ReplyDelete


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The earth is a little turbulent right now and that include volcanic eruptions occuring in five different locations. Indonesia, El Salvador, Italy and Japan are seeing volcanic eruptions. In Japan, a new island is being created off shore.
Boston.com's Big Picture is running over two dozen photographs from these events. Click here to see all of them, descriptions and the all important photographer credits.


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Hybrid Golf Club
Hybrid golf clubs were originally designed to play from thick rough, fairway bunkers and other difficult spots (that's why the name 'Rescue' clubs). Hybrid clubs became more popular when replacing hard to hit long irons. Hybrids feature a wider sole than the equivalent iron and Center of Gravity is shifted lower in the head. Hybrids have a hollow core construction like a fairway wood. That's why hybrids are more forgiving than a standard iron and outperform irons on off-center hits. Hybrids deliver a greater accuracy on off-center hits and offer more distance than the equivalent iron. Golf hybrids can be used for just about any shot on the course, from tee to green. That's why many golfers not only replaced their long irons with hybrids but the entire set, even golf wedges. Monark Golf offers large selection of hybrids in Right Hand and Left Hand, ranging from #1 hybrid (13º) even to 46º and 52º lofted hybrids.


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BAGHDAD (AP) — Members of al-Qaida's branch in Iraq handed out pamphlets Thursday urging those in Fallujah to take up arms and back the militants in their weekslong fight against government troops as clashes raged on around the city, residents said Thursday.
While the government battled militants west of Baghdad, police outside the capital found the bullet-ridden bodies of 14 Sunni men, earlier abducted from a funeral by gunmen wearing military uniforms. It was a grim reminder of similar slayings that accompanied the worst days of sectarian killings that swept the country after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion.
Since late last month, Iraqi security forces and allied Sunni tribesmen have been fighting to recapture key territories overran by al-Qaida militants in the country's Sunni-dominated Anbar province, including its two main cities — Fallujah and parts of the provincial capital, Ramadi.
Speaking to The Associated Press by telephone, Fallujah residents said militants distributed pamphlets with the emblem of the group — the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant — at main city intersections Thursday and the day before.
The pamphlets called on Fallujah residents to join the fight alongside the al-Qaida fighters, give money or open their homes as shelters, the residents said. They spoke on condition of anonymity, fearing for their safety.
Another pamphlet announced that al-Qaida would form a Commission for Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice that would look into the disputes among Fallujah residents, the residents said.
Meanwhile, clashes between Iraqi security forces and al-Qaida militants raged in two neighborhoods in Fallujah, 65 kilometers (40 miles) west of Baghdad, from late Wednesday night to Thursday morning, the residents said.
A medical official said the city hospital received the bodies of seven men killed in the fighting and that 13 were wounded. He was unable to provide a breakdown of how many of the dead were militants and how many might have been civilians caught up in the clashes.
Iraqi state television said security forces and allied tribal fighters clashed inside and around the city of Ramadi on Thursday, retaking several areas captured earlier by al-Qaida fighters. No more details were given.
Two senior military officials said that one soldier was killed and three others were wounded by sniper fire during a clash between soldiers and militants in the village of al-Bubali, between Fallujah and Ramadi. The officials said that the militants have booby-trapped some houses in the village to slow the advance of the army troops.
The unrest in Anbar started after the Dec. 28 arrest of a Sunni lawmaker sought on terrorism charges and the dismantling of an anti-government Sunni protest camp in Ramadi. To alleviate the tension, the government pulled the army back from the cities, allowing militants to seize control.
Meanwhile, police found the corpses of 14 men Thursday afternoon in an orchard near the Sunni-dominated town of Mishahda. Officials said the corpses were shot in different parts of the body.
Authorities said gunmen wearing military uniforms kidnapped the men from a funeral Wednesday night. Police said nine men from the same family are among the dead. Medical officials confirmed receiving the bodies.
It wasn't clear who rounded up and killed the men. Shiite militiamen could be seeking revenge for the ongoing Sunni insurgent attacks against Shiite neighborhoods. Militants with al-Qaida's local branch target Sunnis in attacks as well. Military uniforms remain easy to get ahold of throughout the country.
A similar slaying happened in November, when police found the bodies of 18 Sunnis just south of Baghdad. They recall the darkest days after the U.S. invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein's Sunni-led regime, paving the way for long-repressed majority Shiites to seize power.
Iranian-backed Shiite death squads roamed Baghdad from 2006-2008, killing Sunnis by the dozens and dumping their often mutilated bodies on the streets or in the river in retaliation for the devastating bombings and suicide attacks blamed on Sunni insurgents. Sunnis also formed their own death squads for revenge killings.
Meanwhile in Baghdad, a bomb exploded in an outdoor market in the eastern suburb of Nahrawan, killing three civilians and wounding six, a police officer said. Another bomb went off in a commercial area of Baghdad's western Ghazaliyah neighborhood, killing two civilians and wounding nine, he said.
All officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to journalists.
Violence has escalated in Iraq over the past year. Iraq saw the highest annual death toll in 2013 since the worst of the country's sectarian bloodletting began to subside in 2007, according to United Nations figures. The U.N. said violence killed 8,868 last year.
Associated Press writer Qassim Abdul-Zahra contributed to this report.


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Tornado policy draft offered to Manchester school board by Hillside Middle School Lego team
November 25. 2013 8:35PM
MANCHESTER — A team of would-be engineers at Hillside Middle School has created a draft tornado policy for Manchester schools and sent it to the school superintendent and school board for consideration.
The policy was devised by the middle school's FIRST Lego League team and it won the team second place in the regional competition held last Saturday at Hillside, said coach Diane Seabury. The second place is good enough to send the team to the 50-team New Hampshire First Lego League Championship Tournament on Dec. 7 at Nashua High School.
The challenge calls on FIRST Lego League teams to research natural disasters and propose creative solutions. Teams will also build, test and program an autonomous robot to perform solutions such as positioning an evacuation sign, clearing a runway of debris and delivering supplies.
According to Seabury, Manchester schools have no policy for tornados. The team developed a 6-minute video of a simulated tornado drill with safety tips. It is suggesting the district show it to students in enrichment class instead of a drill, which is time-consuming.
Public Safety Middle schools Politics Weather Manchester Top Section Stories


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Opponents of Dutch 'Black Pete' speak out
AMSTERDAM (AP) — The "Black Pete" tradition in the Netherlands is under fire from opponents who believe the figure is a racist caricature and who asked Amsterdam officials Thursday to revoke the permit for a popular children's festival because of it.
"Sinterklaas," the Dutch version of Santa Claus, is portrayed as a tall white man who arrives to great fanfare on Nov. 5, accompanied by dozens of clownish servants called "Zwarte Pieten" — Black Petes. These are typically white people wearing blackface makeup with red lips and curly "Afro" wigs.
Festivities around the country last a month, culminating in a night of poems and gift-giving.
The tradition is an important part of Dutch culture, but in recent years there have been growing complaints that Pete is offensive.
On Thursday, dozens of protesters overflowed a hearing about the permit at Amsterdam City Hall.
One of 21 people who filed formal complaints, Imro Rietveld, described growing up as the only black-skinned child in his class. Every year, he said he was subjected to a month of taunts such as "your whole family is coming over in the boat" and "can you do tricks?"
He said some people are afraid to speak out against Black Pete because they are worried about being ridiculed or even losing their jobs, and he had been warned against coming.
"For the good of all the children," Rietveld said. "This should actually be changed in the whole country."
Opponents say the Sinterklaas festival should continue, but Pete's appearance should be changed.
Mayor Eberhard van der Laan will rule on the Amsterdam permit by the end of the month.


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Bentley basketball player collapses, dies
WATERTOWN, Mass. (AP) — A Bentley University basketball player died after collapsing at a recreational summer league game at a Watertown playground, police said Tuesday.
Joe Glynn, 19, was pronounced dead at Mount Auburn Hospital in Cambridge after collapsing at about 7:30 p.m. Monday, Lt. Michael Lawn said. The death remains under investigation but does not appear suspicious, Lawn said.
Glynn had no physical contact with any other player before collapsing, teammate Michael Crotty Jr. told the Boston Herald.
The 6-foot-5 forward from Abington averaged 3.3 points and 3.2 rebounds per game as a freshman last season for the NCAA Division II Falcons. He started 16 games for Bentley, which finished 11-15.
"Our deepest sympathies go out to Joey's family, friends, classmates, teammates and professors as they struggle to comprehend the sudden loss of such a vibrant young life," Bentley President Gloria Larson said in a statement. The university will schedule a memorial service in the future.
Glynn was an All-Scholastic at Cardinal Spellman High School in Brockton, where he scored 1,425 career points. The high school held a prayer service for Glynn on Tuesday morning, and many of his classmates from the Class of 2012 attended, according to The Enterprise. He also was a standout football player at Spellman.
"He was an outstanding athlete and an even better person," Spellman spokesman Nate Merritt said. "He always represented Spellman better than we could have even asked. Putting this tragedy into words is virtually impossible."
Glynn is survived by his parents, Joseph and Susan Glynn, and four sisters.


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Apr. 8, 2011
Most people in metropolitan areas face choices when we travel — to go by car or to use public transit? These decisions have a huge impact on our wallets, on the environment and on our quality of life. We'll explore these issues in Passengers, a two-part radio documentary airing on WGBH Radio's Humankind at 6-7 pm, Sunday, Apr. 10 and Sunday, Apr. 17 on 89.7 FM. Here, series producer David Freudberg introduces one of the issues covered by the documentary.
The last time America underwent a spike in gasoline prices, in the spring of 2008, public transportation experienced a five-decade high in ridership. Millions of people made the calculation that using buses and trains is far more affordable than the combined cost of owning, fueling, insuring, maintaining and parking a car.
Now in 2011, gas prices have risen dramatically, a trend that could continue -- especially with unrest in the Middle East, a rich source of petroleum.
More resources:
LISTEN: Passengers, Pt. 1
New England gas prices have already jumped 31% in the past year, averaging $3.67 per gallon, as of the first week of April, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
Pain at the pump could send more Americans back to public transit – but are the country's transit systems, already worn down by slashed budgets and growing demand, well-equipped to handle increased demand?
Many public transit systems rely on local sales tax revenue, which, in some locales, has declined sharply with the slow economy. As a result, transit systems throughout the country have laid off drivers and other workers, cut back routes and number of trips, and, in some cases, also raised fares at the same time.
While such cuts reduce the supply of public transportation, they're unlikely to affect demand. In metropolitan areas, about a third of people do not have access to car. As a result, in Chicago, where budget pressure caused an 18% cut in bus service last year, ridership declined by only 1%, because people are dependent on public transit.
It worries a man we interviewed at the bus depot in Boston's Dudley Square.
"I live check by check, day by day and, you know, and I depend on the public transportation," he said. "I depend on this to get me to where I'm going. But yet still I have to leave my house earlier and earlier every day so I can get to work on time, because for the simple fact the buses are always late, always late. 4:30 comes early in the morning, and if I don't catch that first bus to go to work, I'm late."
At the same time, there are signs that many young people are embracing public transportation more eagerly than many of their parents did – which could place further demands on the system. "(Younger people) see cars as much more restrictive, in the sense that you're stuck behind the wheel. It's much more expensive than traveling on a bus," says DePaul University metropolitan planner Joseph Schweitermann.
"And not to mention the flexibility they now have on a bus or train, you know, to kind of seamlessly continue their work, their social interactions, their, you know, their chill out time, texting people. And so the car is seen as kind of this big apparatus you've got to take with you when you go somewhere, which isn't necessarily what they want to do," Schweitermann said.
We'll explore the role public transportation can play in building a more livable nation in a 2-part radio documentary, Passengers, airing Sunday, Apr. 10 and Sunday, Apr. 17 on 89.7 FM.
Sign-up for WGBH News updates, WGBH promotions, and previews of what's coming up on WGBH TV.


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Troubleshoot PTIN System Issues
Need to create an account and apply for a PTIN?
Learn how to create an account in
the IRS Tax Professional PTIN System.
It's the first step in applying for
a Preparer Tax Identification Number.
Learn the step-by-step process to
apply for a Preparer Tax Identification
Number or PTIN
Need to renew your PTIN?
Learn the step-by-step process to
renew a PTIN.
Have an account, but can't log in?
Are you having trouble logging into your
online PTIN account? Watch this video
for tips on resolving common login problems
User ID: Most people's user ID is their email address. If yours is not and you can't remember it, select Forgot User ID from the PTIN system login page. Your user ID will be emailed to you.
Password: Passwords must meet the following criteria:
- Be a minimum of eight characters
- Not be the same as your user ID
- Not be a variation of your user ID
- Contain at least one alphabetic character
- Contain at least one non-alphabetic character
If you can't remember your password, you can use the Forgot Password function to reset it. Select Forgot Password from the PTIN system login page to have a temporary password to your email address:
- You should copy and paste the password to avoid errors
- Copy: Highlight the temporary password with your mouse, right-click your mouse, and select Copy
- Paste: Place your cursor in the Password box, right-click your mouse, and select Paste.
Changed email addresses?
If you no longer have access to the email address you used when first created your account, you can change it without having to log into your account. Select Forgot or Cannot Access Email from the PTIN system login page.
You'll need the following information:
- Last name on the account
- Date of birth
- Social Security Number
- Answer to your secret question
Don't have that information? You'll have to call the IRS PTIN Information Line for help.


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By Oliver Platt
The Rafael Benitez era at Chelsea will roll on beyond this FA Cup tie but surely cannot last much longer.
The Blues were fortunate to be in the hat for the fifth round draw, bailed out by an increasingly rare example of Fernando Torres coming up trumps when it mattered against Brentford, who had twice taken the lead against the more illustrious west London club at Griffin Park.
Sir Alex changed his mind and, in retrospect, admitted that the pre-announcement had been "an absolute disaster". It had only served to unsettle those who had a good relationship with him; those who did not had been going through the motions in anticipation of a new man. Dwight Yorke belonged to the latter group and when Sir Alex told the squad he was staying, Roy Keane memorably turned to the striker and said: "That's you ****** then, Yorkie."
There are similar parallels at Chelsea. There is clearly mutual admiration between Benitez and Juan Mata; the playmaker welcomed the "great coach" to Stamford Bridge and when the Blues were trailing at half-time against Brentford, Benitez had the ear of his compatriot from the bench all the way to the tunnel as he prepared to introduce him as a substitute.
Mata has emerged as a leader but even a player of his quality cannot do it all and elsewhere, it is easy to imagine a great deal of apathy. Of the core of the previous title-winning Chelsea teams, Didier Drogba has left and Frank Lampard will join him in seeking pastures new in the summer. Even John Terry is out of contract in 2014 and it is far from certain he will stay beyond that term. Ashley Cole has renewed for a further year but, again, it is likely to be his last.
These players have won all four major club trophies in England and Europe, crowning their domestic accomplishments with victory in the Champions League only eight months ago. This season, one manager has already been dismissed, the Premier League title is out of reach and one potential run to Wembley ended at the semi-final stage when Swansea knocked them out of the Capital One Cup. Only the FA Cup - which Chelsea have won four times since 2006-07 - and the Europa League remain. What do Lampard, Terry and Cole really have left to play for?
Benitez will probably keep Chelsea in the top four with ease and that will satisfy Abramovich as he ponders his next move after missing out on Pep Guardiola. But every time something significant has been at stake, their lack of focus and drive has showed.
Any remote hope of rejoining the title race was ended by the home disappointments against QPR and Southampton. Corinthians evidently valued the Club World Cup much more than Chelsea did. And the Blues then failed to score a single goal over two legs against Swansea, a failure overshadowed by the ridiculous behaviour of Eden Hazard and a ball boy.
|Chelsea are 9/2 to win the FA Cup with bet365
"If you analyse the previous managers, how many had pre-season here? Not me," he complained. "How many spent massive money here? Not me. How many had to go to Japan in mid-season with players injured and had players in the African Nations Cup? Only me."
His grievances may be valid but they are beside the point. The reasons for Benitez's incompatibility with this job are not new or emerging now. They have been present and visible since day one.
Follow Oliver Platt on


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Substitute 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts for the OSCAR MAYER Deli Fresh Grilled Chicken Breast Strips. Heat greased grill on high heat. Grill chicken until done (165ºF), turning and brushing frequently with barbecue sauce for the last few minutes. Cut chicken into strips, then use as directed.
Substitute 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips, for the OSCAR MAYER Deli Fresh Grilled Chicken Breast Strips. Cook chicken in barbecue sauce in large skillet on medium-high heat until chicken is done, stirring occasionally. Continue as directed.
Substitute 1/4 cup ATHENOS Crumbled Blue Cheese for the Cheddar crumbles.
* Nutrition information is estimated based on the ingredients and cooking instructions as described in each recipe and is intended to be used for informational purposes only. Please note that nutrition details may vary based on methods of preparation, origin and freshness of ingredients used.


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FONTANA >> The IndyCar series has put an emphasis on sweeps this season and is awarding drivers additional money for sweeping doubleheaders.
There is extra cash award available to Tony Kanaan or Scott Dixon if they can win the MavTV 500 at Auto Club Speedway on Saturday, awarded for taking the three long-distance oval races.
One sweep at stake, that will not be worth any extra cash prizes, is the Southern California title. Takuma Sato is the lone racer who can take that sweep.
"To win would be a great honor," Sato said. "Hopefully we'll have a chance. I know there is a big Japanese (contingent) on the West Coast and I know this year we will have twice as big of tours as last year. So hopefully I can have a strong race in front of them."
The Southland has the only distinction of having IndyCar's lone road course-oval double with the Toyota Grand Prix on the streets of Long Beach in April and Saturday's race on the 2-mile banked oval. No other metropolitan area has that distinction.
Sato scored his first IndyCar victory and became the first Japanese driver to win in the series at Long Beach in April. He led 50 of the 80 laps in only his third start for A.J. Foyt Enterprises and gave the team its first IndyCar victory in 11 years.
"It would be great to win on an oval," Sato said. "I was cursed last year. The last 20 to 30 laps are a bit like Indy. It becomes very tense and very competitive. Everybody wants to win."
Sato has yet to win on an oval, but he has come close. At last year's Indianapolis 500, he was attempting to pass eventual winner Dario Franchitti on the final lap for the lead and hit the Turn 1 wall. He finished 17th for Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing. At least year's MavTV 500, he led six laps and finished seventh.
"I really enjoyed the first time I came here last year," he said of Fontana. "At first we found it a very tricky track. We were surprised by how bumpy it was and I wasn't sure how I could go to the flat all the way around. Unlike other tracks, we can take a multitude of lines. It's a bit tricky to go down low, but it just presents very, very exciting racing.
"I remember last year that you did not know who was going to win the race until the very last lap. It was very exciting."
If Sato can win, it would be team owner Foyt's first oval victory since 2002 when Airton Dare won at Kansas.
"I've talked to him a couple of times," Foyt said of Sato. "There will be times we have a first-place car and at times a 10th-place car. When we have a 10th-place car, I want you to run 10th. Don't try and take a 10th-place car and try to win. I told him you're not really going to impress me that much if you win or lose because I've been there on both sides. I know what it's like."
The second half of the season, Sato has been driving that 10th-place car.
In the first eight events, he finished seven of them and also took second at Sao Paulo, Brazil. He led five laps at Indianapolis, where he finished 13th, and then led 109 laps at Milwaukee and came in seventh.
But after the mile oval at Milwaukee, it has been a struggle. He has not finished in eight of the last nine races and has averaged a 21st-place finish. He started on the pole for the first Houston race on Oct. 5 but finished 14th.
"Hopefully, like the beginning of the season, we can be very competitive," said Sato, who is in his fourth full season of IndyCar after racing in Formula One. "Hopefully we'll come back strong."
Sato is 14th in points and can move up only three positions if everything goes right for him.
"Takuma has done a great job for us," Foyt said. "I think the world of him."
So when issues have come up this year? Conversations definitely have not been by sign language or Japanese-American dictionary.
"How am I going to talk to him?" Foyt asked. "He speaks English a heck of a lot better than I speak Japanese."


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Evelyn Restivo to Receive the 2014 Homer L. Dodge Citation for Distinguished Service to AAPT
College Park, MD, March 28, 2014—AAPT has announced that Evelyn Restivo will receive the association's Homer L. Dodge Citation for Distinguished Service to AAPT during the 2014 Summer Meeting in Minneapolis, MN.
Restivo has been an active member of AAPT since 1985 serving as a role model for preservice and inservice teachers through many different venues. She teaches students at all levels from high school through college in both chemistry and physics. She has worked tirelessly for PTRA, TSAAPT, and AAPT through countless workshops as both a leader and a co-presenter.
Her career as a science teacher started in 1969, following her graduation from Central State College, Edmond, OK with B.S.E. in Natural Science. She has taught Biology, Chemistry, Geology, and Physics in Oklahoma, Tennessee, Georgia, and Texas. She continued her education, earning her M.Ed in 2001 at Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas.
A dedicated contributor to physics teaching in Texas for decades, she has served the Texas Section as President and as the TSAAPT liaison to Science Teachers Association of Texas. She has presented the Physics strand annually at the Conference for the Advancement of Science Teaching, a gathering of several thousand science teachers in Texas. She has also been a major contributor to Quarknet. In 2012, Restivo was the recipient of the Texas Section of the American Association of Physics Teachers Katherine Mays Award for Outstanding Contributions to Physics Education.
About the Homer L. Dodge Citation for Distinguished Service to AAPT
About AAPT
For more information: Contact Marilyn Gardner, Director of Communications, email@example.com, (301) 209-3306, (301) 209-0845 (Fax), www.aapt.org.


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A Chevy Impala Wagon makes a great battering ram
Brian Posehn. Beer helmets. A Chevy Impala Wagon. Absolute destruction. Whether you find the music of Red Fang to be awesome or awful, you simply can't ignore the joy that comes from slapping a hunk of metal across the hood of an old GM wagon and blasting the crap out of something.


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Hi, i havea 800x480 device, im looking how to show 320x200 games in a centered 640x400 (2x) integer scaling... but no luck for now
All scaling i see is in a non integer, that looks horrible
any ideas?
thanks a lot
I am searching for the same thing too, being able to have an integer scaling, like with many Android emulator out there
But so far no matter what version I try, still no luck, the display always stretch in a very ugly way, even if the ratio is hept.
It's strange that they didn't include such options, since it's included in the PSP version (well just for 1x integer scale since the PSP screen resolution is not much higher).
I wonder how hard would it be to include the option for integer scale 2x, 3x, and all in Android.
I would gladly do it myself if someone tells me where to start
On the side note, the other SDL2 port of scummvm (http://anddev.at.ua/load/scummvm_svn55436/1-1-0-7) does include those modes and even filters, but sadly it's only for the internal resolution, not the scale.
Any idea on how to prevent the screen to stretch when using this version?
Please try to test the androidsdl port from our downloads page and tell me how well it works there.


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Hi all,
Once upon a time, circa 2002 and later, I used to to occasionally participate here under the name Alauda, but evidently revisions in the technological underpinnings of this forum prevented me from re-using that name, so here I am again using Korudos--Greek for Alauda.
Cheers and a gold star for anyone who knows the meaning of either word. (Though I am afraid you will have to have a good imagination to receive your reward.)
Anyhow, after failing to teach myself Greek and Latin, I returned to college, where I am now, finishing my second semester of both at the same time. As I write this, I sit in the social science quad at Fresno State. Beside me sit Cynthia Sheldermine's _Introduction the Greek_ and the venerable Professor Wheelock's _Latin_. At the moment, I am too wiped out by the big crunch toward finals to much ponder either.
Looking soon at a long summer, I would cherish being able to stay in practice, and hopefully, I will be able to be of some assistance to others as well.
Oh yeah, my real name is Rick...
Sed fugit, interea, fugit tempus
But it flies, meanwhile, time flies -- Vergil


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Compares two values for a given attribute to determine if they are equal.
#include "slapi-plugin.h" int slapi_attr_value_cmp( Slapi_Attr *attr, struct berval *v1, struct berval *v2 );
This function takes the following parameters:
Attribute used to determine how these values are compared (for example, if the attribute contains case-insensitive strings, the strings are compared without regard to case).
Pointer to the berval structure containing the first value that you want to compare.
Pointer to the berval structure containing the second value that you want to compare.
This function returns one of the following values:
0 if the values are equal.
-1 if they are not equal.


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MOSCOW (AP) — To understand Russian President Vladimir Putin s intentions in Ukraine, it helps to pay close attention to his choice of words and his reading of history. Here is what Putin had to say Thursday in a nationally televised call-in program:
For the first time, Putin acknowledged that the well-armed soldiers in unmarked uniforms who took over Ukraine s Crimean Peninsula were Russian. He seemed annoyed, however, by the widespread description of them as little green men and asked people to avoid the term. He said the troops — who he claimed acted politely, but resolutely and professionally — were needed to lay the ground for the referendum that led to Crimea joining Russia. Putin said the annexation of Crimea was necessary to counter what he said was NATO s intention to make Ukraine a member.
While recognizing the little green men in Crimea, Putin rejected claims that Russian special forces were operating in eastern Ukraine, where pro-Russian militias have been seizing government offices and fomenting unrest. But he described the region as Novorossiya, or New Russia, the historical term for a swath of southeastern Ukraine that had been part of the Russian Empire since the 18th century. The territory was handed over to Ukraine by the Bolsheviks in the 1920s. God only knows why, Putin said.
Putin also made disparaging comments about Ukrainian nationalism, saying it was rooted in centuries of humiliation that people in western Ukraine suffered while being second-class citizens in other states, including the Austro-Hungarian Empire and Poland.
In responding to a question from an elderly woman about whether Russia would now seek to take back Alaska, once part of the Russian Empire, Putin hinted at the strategic importance of Crimea s warm-water ports. Faina Ivanovna, dear, why do we need Alaska? he said, adding that Alaska is cold. Putin said he knows that Alaska is now jokingly called Ice Cream, a play on Krym, the Russian word for Crimea.
Putin tried to infuse a bit of warmth into the chill over Ukraine, picking a question from a 6-year-old girl who asked if he thought President Barack Obama would rescue him if he was drowning. He s a decent and brave man. He would do it, Putin said.
Putin ended his four-hour televised appearance with a description of what he called a person from the Russian world — a term encompassing eastern Ukraine and other parts of the former Soviet Union populated by ethnic Russians. We are less pragmatic than other people, less calculating, he said. But then we have a more generous heart. Perhaps this reflects the greatness of our country, its vast size.
Associated Press writer Vladimir Isachenkov contributed to this report.


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Reesh needed a new logo design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 135 designs submitted by 29 freelance designers.
RT Plans
The "targeting" of a patient's cancer is the critical first step in developing a Radiation Treatment Plan.
"RT Plans" wants to increase the collaborative and cooperative efforts between various specialists in the cancer field to define the target area which will ultimately improve cancer treatment outcomes and build patient confidence.
All physicians who treat cancers and refer patients to Radiation Treatment Centers as well as to those physicians who provide the radiation treatments themselves.
Logo would be displayed on website, business cards, letter head and enlarged on signs to be presented in a vendor booth at medical speciality conventions.
A National footprint/presence is anticipated.
Creation of a logo for "RT Plans". RT is short for "Radiation Therapy".
In smaller type, would like to incorporate "Collaborative Solutions" if possible although not an absolute requirement.
Preferred typeface would be clear, bold, simple- easy to read. Professional appearance.
In general, I like the idea of an associated icon, maybe one with integrated or intertwined/interwoven components (? fabric) and colors demonstrating the close and/or seamless association of our two involved physician groups.
A logo/icon I like can be seen at http://www.1velocity.net. I admire the use of the electron orbit within the confines of the icon design- ? if we could integrate this with the above without making things too busy.
A logo I don't favor is at a competing website http://www.d3radiationplanning.com.
Thanks for your help and consideration!!
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.


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Advanced algorithms may make innovation processes more effective. (Photo: Allvisionn)
Dag H. Zeiner-Gundersen argues that companies and research institutions may innovate more effectively using advanced algorithms and Artificial Intelligence.
By Guest Writer Dag H. Zeiner-Gundersen, Ph.D D.Sc, Founder of Norrønt AS
The need for systematic and complexinnovation
Successful innovation processes must bridge the gap between technological challenges and marketing challenges, leading to viable products and services. Most of the current theories on innovations and innovation processes address, however, the topic of innovation with very simple tools and from a general historic and macroeconomic point of view.
The human innovation process is driven by creativity. To understand the innovation processes we have to assess human learning and creativity. We must effectively use all available results of inventive principles and solutions used throughout history, methodically and in efficiently. This alsoincludes the need for crosslinking between sciences, and pushing the boundary methodically with the help of algorithms Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Companies innovating need to ensure that the innovation process, and the resources used, correlates with the expected outcome. I would therefore argue that we must focus more on details and logical methods, specific principles and standards and algorithms required to achieve precise and detailed results.
The author has through several years been judge at international innovation competitions and observed the increasing speed, momentum, and focus within international innovation. One example: During the innovation competition for renewable energy in Astana October 2016, 17 out of 100 companies that participated were from Israel, none from Norway.
Becoming more methodical
The low hanging fruits that create real disruptive solutions are becoming less and less common within the field of innovation. Complex innovation is a very detailed oriented, 'brain-draining' and demanding exercise. The science and engineering communities should become more methodical and less dependent on random occurrences of creativity and non-structured inventive methods (including attempts at finding the optimum result through "Googling").
Methods based on algorithms and associated principles and standards can be very precise tools. They introduce a kind of accuracy not found in most innovation methods. Such methods can be combined with the use of artificial intelligence for the development of more disruptive solutions.
A typical example on using a fast algorithms addressing a design dilemma may be theattachment of blades/profiles onto a vertical turbine axis, whereby the algorithm will propose the use of preloaded solutions. In this way mechanical life of the turbines can be increased by multiple factors of 10, by avoiding/reducing cyclic tension and compression stress variations.
ANN ARBOR, MI - Think you've got a contender for the biggest tree of its species in Ann Arbor?
The city is seeking nominations for its Champion Tree program through July 31.
The city program identifies and catalogs the largest tree of each species within the city and then publishes the results within a searchable online map.
If you believe your tree is one of the biggest and best of its kind, visit
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to fill out a nomination form.
The city's forestry staff will evaluate tree nominations and notify residents if their tree is selected.
Both public and private trees can be nominated.
Nominations received after July 31 will be evaluated for inclusion in the 2019 Champion Tree list.
Gallery: Local Ann Arbor restaurants struggle with labor shortages
ANN ARBOR, MI - Kayla McKillop went home with $12 after a slow lunch shift at Jolly Pumpkin in Ann Arbor one day in June.
On busy days, she can make around $300 in tips, she said.
In Michigan,
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is $3.52 an hour, with the expectation that tips will bring their average pay up to the state's $9.25 an hour minimum wage.
McKillop, 20, who has been a server at Jolly Pumpkin for about a year and has four years of restaurant experience, said her pay averages about $15 an hour for lunch shifts and $25 an hour for busier dinner shifts.
She doesn't mind the inconsistency in pay from day to day, and she likes being rewarded with a tip for a job well done.
"I'm not necessarily just working a job," she said. "I'm giving people a service."
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The recommended tip at a sit-down restaurant is 15 to 20 percent, according to
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. Bartenders should be tipped $1 to $2 per drink, or 15 to 20 percent of the tab.


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Would You Eat A Lion-Meat Taco?
Boca, an Arizona restaurant that has served tacos featuring the meat of alligators, elk, kangaroos and rattlesnakes, has upped the ante with its latest Exotic Taco Wednesday offering: Next month, the restaurant will offer lion tacos. We're prepared to taste-test the king of the jungle and report back here, if you want us to. Vote now!
The lion meat being used by Boca doesn't come from an endangered species, according to the restaurant. "I'm doing the African lion to get my name out," owner Bryan Mazon told the Arizona Star. "I've never tried it myself, but this one really caught my eye." Mazon got the idea from another Arizona restaurant, which served lion burgers during last year's South Africa-based World Cup. The restaurant sold out, but also encountered protesters.
Boca, gaining a rep for exotic tacos, plans lion-meat offering [Arizona Star]
Want more consumer news? Visit our parent organization, Consumer Reports, for the latest on scams, recalls, and other consumer issues.


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NHL GMs consider changes to avoid shootouts
NHL general managers, for the most part, aren't big fans of the shootout.
They recognize its popularity with the fans, but loathe the fact it's individual rather than team play that determines the outcome of some games.
With that in mind, they are considering expanding overtime from five to 10 minutes in the hopes of reducing the number of games that get to the shootout.
Maybe it will be 10 minutes of the current 4-on-4 play. Maybe it will be five minutes of 4-on-4 and then 3-on-3 for the remaining five.
No decisions were made in Tuesday's meetings, but discussions will continue in March when the GMs meet in Florida.
"There was a real appetite for different forms of how you would play overtime, being manpower," said NHL senior vice-president of hockey operations Colin Campbell.
Detroit Red Wings general manager Ken Holland has been pushing the overtime agenda.
"I think there was an appetite in the room from all the managers and also from (commissioner Gary Bettman) to look at a way to extend overtime," he said. "We're talking about possibly do we switch (ends), longer changes and do some things to try to maybe have better ice, whether it's more shovelling or something."
Tampa Bay Lightning general manager Steve Yzerman said he was also in favour of expanding overtime.
"I think 4-on-4 overtime is extremely exciting. Regardless of the teams playing, I always find it to be some of the most exciting moments of a game. I'd certainly support extension of 4-on-4," he said.
When asked if he liked the shootout, he replied: "I think it's entertaining. Do I like it? I do, but I certainly hope I'm not in a position on the last game of the season and we're down to a shootout determining if we're in. That's happened in the past. I do love it for the entertainment value. I make a point of watching it. So, yes I like it, no, I don't like it," he added with a laugh.
Boston Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli said he hadn't made up his mind on the issue.
"I'm kind of on the fence," he said. "We talked about 4-on-4 and going to 3-on-3. I think any time you can maybe create a more real hockey situation to determine the game, it's good. I like the shootout. It's an entertainment factor I think a lot of fans appreciate."
Among other topics at the meetings:
• Fighting was discussed, but, as expected, there was little momentum to change things.
"We like where our game is at right now," said Dallas Stars general manager Jim Nill. "There are some concerns, but overall the game is good and let's continue to monitor these situations and decide in March where we're at."
Chiarelli touted the deterrent factor of fighting
"I think it's important for our game, maybe primarily from a deterrent effect. You have to deter a lot of stuff with it," he said. "There's different ways to further regulate it and over time that may happen and it probably will. It's such a deep-rooted part of our game and it plays a certain role. There are incidents and different types of fights that don't look good."
Yzerman is an advocate of increasing the penalty for fighting to a game misconduct
"My impression coming out is there is not a real push in that meeting today to make any changes to the rules on fighting," he said Yzerman.
The general managers didn't like the optics of the goalie fight between Philadelphia Flyer Ray Emery and Washington Capital Braden Holtby that saw Emery skate the length of the ice to engage the unwilling Holtby. You can expect additional penalties to be introduced for that scenario.
"We discussed it and it was pretty heavily in favour of doing something on that. For me it would be a fairly simple solution that we would come to at some point," said Chiarelli.
• The league is happy with the new hybrid icing rule. Icings have remained consistent at about 8.5 per game – even with an attainable pass that is missed being called for icing – and there have been no injurious incidents.
• The crossover rule for the playoffs was clarified. It's possible the two wild cards would both cross over to play the top team in the other division, which would defeat the goal of creating more divisional play and rivalries.
"Ideally, we'd love to have divisional play. We've made a change, let's see how this change works out," said Yzerman. "If the wildcards have to cross over, they have to cross over but at some point maybe we can get it more divisional at the end of the day."
The current playoff format won't change for this season, but it could be tweaked by the GMs in March for next year.
• In the wake of the Miami Dolphins bullying scandal in the NFL, the GMs were reminded to be vigilant about players' rights to be free from harrassment in the dressing room.
When asked about bullying in the NHL, Yzerman replied: "Just on the ice. We believe in bullying on the ice," he said with a smile. "Some more than others."


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The elegant brick-and-slate roofed clubhouse sits at the Cooper Avenue and 86th Street entrance to the sprawling, 200-acre Dyker Heights Golf Course. The serene, wooded course and its location on New York's Lower Bay, with views of the Verrazano Narrows Bridge, has made it the most popular of New York's five municipal golf courses for more than a century.
Today, the course is run by the American Golf Corporation (AMI), which funded the $15 million renovation. During the construction period, the golf course remained opened and AMI ran its clubhouse operation out of a rented trailer. AMI representative Matthew Silver said people will soon see the long wait was well worth it.
"Now that the clubhouse is built, the golf course will be a major destination that people from all over New York will come to see in Brooklyn," Silver said.
The new clubhouse has a first-class pro shop stocked with top-of-the-line clothing, clubs, and other gear, as well as inexpensive on-site valet parking. But the new clubhouse wasn't designed with just golfers in mind, said Silver.
The clubhouse now also boasts a variety of other rooms designed to accommodate any large-scale event, from weddings to corporate meetings. "Whatever the event may be we can do it and do it well," Silver said.
A preview tour of the clubhouse revealed a Grand Ballroom large enough to seat 300 people with a movable wooden dance floor and bar, a Bridal Suite room, and a Great Room for corporate conferences. Each thickly carpeted room is decked out with chandeliers, potted plants, and classical paintings.
A refurbished restaurant at the clubhouse, to be called the Dyker Beach Golf Course Grill Room, will feature local food and Brooklyn-brewed beers. Silver said AMI hopes the restaurant becomes a neighborhood fixture for golfers and non-golfers alike.
"We want the Grill Room to be a local place where people can come to eat," said Silver.
AMI spokesperson James Reynolds said the golf course's accessibility by car, bus, and subway makes it the perfect New York City getaway.
"I think a lot of people are really excited it's opening so they can come in and see what we did," said Reynolds. "They'll be proud it's in their own community.


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CARSON, Calif. – Joel Lindpere's early goal held up as the New York Red Bulls beat the LA Galaxy 1-0 at The Home Depot Center on Saturday.
Lindpere converted one of New York's scant few opportunities in the match, but the visitors did more than enough defensively to keep the hosts off the scoreboard.
Match Highlights
It was LA who nearly broke through first, though. Robbie Keane almost put the hosts on the scoreboard in the 12th minute when he danced around Ryan Meara at the top of the penalty area. Keane's chip from 15 yards took a high bounce but was cleared off the line.
New York broke through seven minutes later. Jan Gunnar Solli carried the ball down the left flank and slipped a pass inside to Lindpere, who'd burst through midfield untracked. With Galaxy defenders collapsing around him, Lindpere somehow knocked the ball through a crowd and past Bill Gaudette for the game's only goal.
The tally ensured that the Galaxy would not pick up their first shutout of 2012 on the night.
From there it became a rearguard action for the Red Bulls, who were only too happy to clamp down on an LA attack that was a step slow all night.
For most of the first half, the best LA could muster came off of restarts from dangerous positions. But the Galaxy were untidy with them and failed to really threaten Meara's goal.
Not much changed at the outset of the second half. Despite needing a goal, the hosts were no more aggressive than they were in the opening 45 minutes. New York did well to absorb their pressure and not let the Galaxy get in dangerous positions, while Meara was excellent coming off his line to control his area.
Galaxy coach Bruce Arena made a pair of changes midway through the second half. Chad Barrett and Pat Noonan, who combined for an injury-time leveler a week ago against FC Dallas, came on for Edson Buddle and Mike Magee.
Postgame Press Conference
Barrett broke loose inside the penalty area for a brief moment in the 74th minute but pushed his attempt wide. The forward had several other good chances, but contrived a way to miss the target each time.
The closest LA would come to a leveler was off the foot of Juninho in the 82nd minute. The Brazilian lined up a patented 20-yard drive, but Meara was there to tip cleanly over the bar.
Down the stretch, New York did well to kill off the lead with some quality hold-up play from Kenny Cooper and sub Juan Agudelo, who made his return to the Red Bulls from a long injury layoff when he replaced Solli in the 82nd minute.
With the loss LA drop to 3-5-1, seventh place in the Western Conference. They're in action again next Saturday when they travel to Montreal to face the Impact.
New York, meanwhile, claim their second 1-0 victory in a row, now solidly in third place in the East at 5-3-1. They'll take on conference rivals Houston at Red Bull Arena on Wednesday.
Postgame Interview: Sean Franklin


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If your child has end-stage liver disease and needs a transplant, our pediatric liver transplant experts can provide the care your child requires and the hope your family is looking for. We're one of the best in the nation based on our clinical outcomes for pediatric liver transplants (when considered according to how complex a case is and how severe the illness).
A pediatric liver transplant is a technically demanding operation. After all, the liver is the largest solid organ in the body and has multiple purposes, including the most important: cleaning the blood, producing an important digestive liquid called "bile," and storing energy from the foods we eat in the form of a sugar called "glycogen."
Types of Liver Donors
Your child may be able to get a donated liver in one of two ways from a:
- living donor: either a relative, called a "living related donor," or another unrelated adult
- deceased (or cadaver) donor: the most common way, donated by a healthy adult or child who became critically ill and died of this illness, which is after the person or his or her guardians agreed to donate the organs in the event of a sudden death
How a Pediatric Liver Transplant Works
Once your child gets the team's OK after all of the required evaluations, tests, and consultations are completed and a deceased or living donor match is found, your child is ready for the liver transplant surgery.
During the transplant, the entire liver of the child receiving the transplant is removed. Then the new liver (or liver portion) is attached in place of the old liver with connections to the important blood vessels. The surgery generally takes 4 to 8 hours. Your child will be admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit after the procedure is over. He or she will be closely monitored and, when ready, will be transferred to a more relaxed setting on the regular inpatient area.
Most children recover from a pediatric liver transplant within a few days. They're able to eat and move around without much assistance. In a few weeks, they can even return to an active life. Our team members will also work with you and your child for the long-term. We want to make sure your child is healthy now and far into the future.


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Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Featuring the world famous ships HMS Victory and HMS Warrior 1860, plus HMS Alliance, the only remaining WW2 era British ocean going submarine.
Also including the National Museum Royal Navy Portsmouth, Action Stations and Harbour Tours, there's plenty to see and do. Discover a great family day out at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.
Situated within a working Naval Base, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is the only place in the world to see the Royal Navy past, present and future - a must see for anyone visiting the south of England.
Venue Type:
Museum, Ship or maritime heritage site
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard opens from 10am to 6pm (10am to 5:30pm November - March) throughout the year, except when closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. From April - October: Last tickets to the attractions are sold at 4.30pm and the Dockyard gates are closed at 6pm. From November - March: Last tickets to the attractions are sold at 4pm and the Dockyard gates are closed at 5.30pm.
Gate prices:
Adult: £39.00
Senior: £34.00
Student: £34
Child: £23.50 (Children under 5 are free.)
Family: £85.00 (up to 5 members of the same family, maximum 2 adults/seniors).
Online prices (Offer cannot be combined with other offers or applied for retrospectively. Offers are only redeemable online only and applies to All Attraction tickets only):
Adult: £31.00
Senior: £27.00
Student: £27.00
Child: £18.80
Family: £68.00
Gift Aid your ticket for us to claim back the tax. For further information on visiting please telephone 02392 839 766 or visit www.historicdockyard.co.uk.
- Museums Association
- National Art Pass
Additional info
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard welcomes all visitors. The site is, however, a working Naval Base and certain areas may present difficulties to visitors who use wheelchairs, with a restricted mobility or who are visually impaired. As a safety precaution, we ask that all these visitors are accompanied by a carer. Toilets for disabled visitors can be found in the Historic Dockyard Coach and Car Park, Boathouse No.7 and the National Museum of the Royal Navy.
Wheelchairs are available free of charge from the Visitor Centre, HMS Warrior 1860 and National Museum of the Royal Navy. Please call 02392 839766 for further information.
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Victory Gate
HM Naval Base
A Victorian Festival of Christmas
023 9298 7835
02392 894 550
02392 295252


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Carolina Panther defensive end Julius Peppers will agree to be traded to only four teams, a source says.
And two of those teams are teams to which the Panthers will not want to trade him, the source adds.
This implies that the two teams are in the NFC South, the division in which the Panthers play.
The source also says that there are issues that could impede a trade to the other two teams such as compensation for the Panthers and potential contract problems for Peppers.
In other words, the teams might not have a high first-round pick to offer Carolina, and might not have the money to pay Peppers.
The Panthers have until 4 p.m. Thursday to apply their franchise tag to Peppers or Jordan Gross, a move that would prevent the player from becoming a free-agent and bind him to Carolina for another season.
Peppers, obviously, does not want the tag applied to him, which would free him to negotiate his own deal with a prospective suitor. The Panthers, however, would receive nothing in return.


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The latest issue of Google's Think Quarterly begins as they all do, with an impassioned soliloquy about a specific facet of the digital age. This being the Creativity Issue, the discourse revolves around the ability of technology to increase creativity, the things it makes possible. "We are never more creative than when we are kids," it begins, terming children 'wide-eyed and inquisitive." It goes on to say that technology has returned to adults that sense of wonderment, allowing us to be "endlessly curious and profoundly creative." It claims that as children our favourite question is "Why" and that as digitally-integrated adults it can now be, impressively, "Why not".
It seems there is a point passed over here. While both are certainly honourable inquiries, they're often more rhetorical than anything else. The crucial question now, is "How".
Being able to blend media means your story takes life beyond any of them individually. Now, creative toes the line of reality, or even crosses that threshold completely. Think Quarterly itself represents it. The entire publication serves as an advocate for a brand fiercely expanding its offering. At some point, a Google employee answered the question, "How do we present Google as perpetual thought leader while simultaneously charming people and reinforcing the perception of us as an innovative company?" with the response "with a magazine." With swiftly increasing possibilities in almost every medium, and concertedly in digital and ambient, there are more answers to that "How" question than there ever have been before. What Smart Car's Argentinean Twitter account did a couple days ago is a lovely example of that.
Over the course of 420-odd tweets, BBDO Argentina created a stop-motion film of a Smart Car driving through a city past adoring onlookers, and then parking between two cars in a way only a Smart Car could. It's a simple, pleasant experience that takes a specifically textual medium and makes it completely visual. And, it's just cool.
See it for yourself. @SmartArg


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Name: Mis Morning Star
Location: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Check out Mis Morning Star on Facebook
Follow Mis Morning Star on Instagram
Birthday: August 18th
Zodiac Sign: Leo
Height: 5'6
Weight (lbs): 125
Measurements: 34C-25-34
Ethnicity/Nationality: Vietnamese / Aboriginal
- Matrix products tradeshow
- Sabastian products tradeshow
- Runway model for "Edmonton Fashion Week"
- Select Models Management commercial
- Import Model
- RXI magazine, Vexx magazine and PASMAG
- BeerHunter calendar model
- Playboy's "Girls of Golf"
- "Miss Teen Alberta"
The Interview
Where are you from? And, are you currently living there? If not, where are you currently living?
I was born in Saskatoon and raised in Edmonton. Although I have extensive travelling experience, I always come home to Edmonton, Alberta.
Are you currently working? If so, where and what do you do?
I am a fully licensed hair dresser working for Shadified Salon. I also work with my mother who runs a cleaning service. I like to keep busy and don't mind getting my hands dirty.
Are you currently in school? If so, where and what is your majors/minors?
I just graduated from Marvel College for hair dressing.
Does your personality match your Zodiac sign? Describe.
I'm a Leo and my personality definitely matches my sign. I'm ambitious, courageous, motivated, and creative; dominate, strong-willed, and independent. When it comes to my friends, family, and those close to me, my generosity can be seen as a fault.
What would you say are your strengths as a model?
I'm energetic, funny, adventurous, motivated, and determined. I can easily adapt to any working environment, follow instructions, and able to work alone or with a team. I am also very ambitious and committed to my artistry; I believe that being unique is very important because that's what makes us individuals. My exotic look often works in my favor. I also strive to be the best person I can be in any situation.
What is your best beauty secret?
Plenty of rest, hydrating properly and plenty of sun screen. To relieve stress, I hit the gym.
What car do you currently drive? Describe your likes and dislikes of the car.
I drive a Pontiac Torrent, 2007 SUV. I hope to one day drive a 2013 Aston Martin, which I feel describes my personality; sleek and sexy. The one thing I can't go without is my DVD player in my vehicle. When I drive around I listen to my chick flick seasons. Everyone thinks this is weird, but it keeps me centered and laughing.
What is your dream car? Why?
My dream car would have to be a silver 2013 Aston Martin. Who needs a man if your car is fast, handsome, and elegant?
Do you know how to change a spare tire? Do you have any interesting stories of any car problems you've had?
It's actually a funny story; my first car was a 1992 Ford Tempo and it broke down on me one day. I walked into an independently owned mechanic and body shop and said, "I know nothing about cars and need my vehicle to be fixed". I wish I didn't say the first part of that sentence; he billed me $900 for two brake pads and a barring and I paid it. I had no idea I was hustled. I told one of my friends and he then told me I basically got screwed. To this day I do the opposite and buy my own parts after getting different quotes and just pay someone to do the work.
What are your future plans (long term goals)?
I want to continue to work in a salon for at least 10 years to gain a strong clientele. After that, if everything works out I either want to own a salon or have a partnership in a chain of salons. I see a future in the beauty industry. I've enjoyed either being the model or helping others look the part to pursue their careers. I enjoy doing hair and makeup. Makeup and photography are my passion. With that said, pursuing my modelling career is also just as important to me.
Do you drink? If so, what do you drink? If not, why do you not drink?
I enjoy drinking white wine. White Zinfandel and Moscato are my favorite.
I enjoy Asian cuisine. As a toddler my mother would ask me what I would like to eat and I would always respond "mhmmm... rice and flowers." My favorite has always been rice, beef and greens and you can't forget the imperial rolls.
Are you saving for anything at the moment?
I've always been smart with money. When I want something I strive, save and work hard to get it. I am saving for my future salon.
What are your hobbies? Describe what you do.
I actually enjoy driving, doing my everyday errands and spending time with my micro-teacup Chihuahua (who thinks he's a Pit-bull). I enjoy movies and anything that has to do with the outdoors. I also enjoy doing hair and makeup on others to help them feel confident and beautiful.
How do you keep in such excellent shape? Explain your daily/exercise routine.
I usually spend three days a week at the gym doing full body workouts, as my schedule permits. I warm up using the stair master to get my heart rate up and blood flowing. Then I go straight to leg work. I started off squatting 70 pounds and I'm now up to 140. I'm very proud of myself. I continue doing other thigh and calf exercises and then move on to light arm work for toning and finish up with abs.
Are you big on first impressions? What do you first notice on a man?
I am; if I go on a date and he acts like a dick then I am definitely not going on the second date. I notice if the guy has good hygiene, has a good personality, and takes care of himself. If I make an effort to look good I expect the same too. I like someone that can make me laugh and isn't too shy as I tend to talk a lot. Some people say I talk too fast when really, they're just slow listeners?
What's on your travel itinerary? Are you planning to go to any events in the future and/or vacation with your family, friends or 'significant other'?
My summer travelling itinerary includes 'Boonstock' (a huge rave event), the Calgary Stampede,' and working the Winnipeg Driven Car Show for PASMAG. I also plan to visit Kelona, Vegas, Las Angeles and camping on the Pembina River. I plan on having the best summer ever; last year was spent working. It should be fun and interesting.
Do you have a dream wedding? If so, where and describe?
If I ever get married it would have to be somewhere beautiful in Mexico with all my close family members and friends. I just want to be somewhere where I can feel my toes in the sand and a beautiful sunset on my face.
Who is your favorite music artist or band? Why?
Growing up, it was definitely Britney Spears. Today my favorite artist is Rihanna; her edge, style, music, and swag are inspiring. I also enjoy listing to reggae, hip hop, dance, house and some rave music. Basically, whatever has a good beat and gets me up and dancing.
Who motivates and inspires you?
Kim Kardashian minus the porn; her self-promotion has gotten her to where she is today. She has strived for what she wanted and achieved it. I also love her fashion sense, hair and makeup.
What else can you tell us about yourself?
Being the oldest of five children with four brothers keeps life interesting. I was a cheerleader in junior high and high school. I've been modeling since the age of 13 and did my first commercial at 14. My parents kept me in a bubble and I was constantly being grounded to keep the boys away. I hated it back then, but I understand it now.
Any shout-outs or last words?
I strongly believe everything happens for a reason, good and bad. It's always about the life lessons and experiences that mold you.


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Help us get to over 4,000 biographies in 2018.
If you know of a past magician not listed in MagicPedia, start a New Biography for them or Email us your suggestion.
Harry Houdini
|Harry Houdini
|Erik Weisz
March 24, 1874
Budapest, Hungary
|October 31, 1926 (age 52)
Detroit, Michigan
|Books by Harry Houdini
Initially, Houdini's magic career resulted in little success. He performed in dime museums and sideshows, and even doubled as "the Wild Man" at a circus. Houdini initially focused on traditional card tricks. At one point, he billed himself as the "King of Cards". But he soon began experimenting with escape acts. In 1893, while performing with his brother "Dash" at Coney Island as "The Brothers Houdini", Harry met and married fellow performer Bess (Wilhelmina Beatrice Rahner). Bess replaced Dash in the act, which became known as "The Houdinis". For the rest of Houdini's performing career, Bess would work as his stage assistant as well as get married.
Harry Houdini is the one of the most famous escape artists/magicians who has ever lived. He changed it to Harry Houdini because Jean Eugene Robert-Houdin was one of his biggest inspirations.
Houdini escaped from many unique situations and invented some of the most memorable escapes in the history of magic like the "Chinese Torture Cell", "Metamorphosis" and much more.
Houdini published his Conjurers' Monthly Magazine, that only ran for one year from September 1906 until August 1907 as a competitor to the Sphinx.
The magazine touted Houdini's importance to the world of magic, gossip about magicians he did not like and criticism of his imitators.
During his career, Houdini inspired many imitators, men and women. Some duplicated his escapes and others during the height of his fame were just trying to capitalize on his name. Houdini often ruthlessly defended his domain by challenging these imitators, advertising that his act was "patented" with threats to sue them, exposing them, or training someone of his own liking (including his brother Hardeen). [1]
"It's not the trick. It's the magician." --Harry Houdini
- The Right Way to Do Wrong (1906)
- The Unmasking of Robert-Houdin (1908)
- Handcuff Secrets (1910)
- Magical Rope Ties and Escapes (1921)
- Miracle Mongers and Their Methods (1920)
- Houdini's Paper Magic (1922)
- Elliott's Last Legacy (1923)
- A Magician Among the Spirits. (1924)
- Exposes the tricks used by the Boston Medium "Margery" (1925)
- ↑ The secret life of Houdini: the making of America's first superhero By William Kalush, Larry Sloman (2006)
| This page incorporated content from Harry Houdini,
a page hosted on Wikipedia. Please consult the history of the original page to see a list of its authors. Therefor, this article is also available under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License
- Cover Genii 1936 October
- Cover Genii 1938 October
- Cover Genii 1940 October
- Cover Genii 1941 October
- Cover Genii 1942 October
- Cover Genii 1953 June
- Cover Genii 1955 October
- Cover Genii 1956 October
- Cover Genii 1961 October
- Cover Genii 1962 October
- Cover Genii 1972 October
- Cover Genii 1975 November
- Cover Genii 1993 November
- Cover Genii 1999 December
- Cover Genii 2011 January
- Bess Genii 1938 October
- Hardeen Genii 1943 October
- Wild About Houdini Bibliography
- Brief Biography at The Magic Nook
- Houdini Collection catalog at Library of Congress
- John Cox's Houdini Site
- biography by John Cox
- Kevin Connolly's Houdini site
- Wild About Houdini Blog
- Findacadabra - World map of magic places, featuring points of interest related to Harry Houdini.
- Foreign language bibliography


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Featured News - Current News - Archived News - News Categories
State Sen. George Maziarz, R-C-Newfane, has announced the introduction of bills S5935 and S5936, which aim to help control the cost of the state pension system. Under current law, officers and employees of private organizations such as the state Association of Counties, the state School Boards Association and the Association of Towns are all eligible to participate in New York's retirement system. The proposed legislation will exclude future employees from these organizations from participating in the state retirement system, and will stop the accumulation of additional pension credits by current employees upon the effective date of the bill.
"While the NYS retirement system is a benefit for hardworking public employees and a benefit to local governments to attract and retain qualified employees, it is also a financial burden to local governments," Maziarz said. "This legislation will reduce pension costs by ensuring that those who participate in the NYS retirement system are those that are public employees. Under the current law, officers and employees of certain private organizations such as NYS Association of Counties, NYS School Board Association and the Association of Towns qualify for a public pension. Some of the individuals from these private organizations earn six-figure salaries and are registered lobbyists! It is outrageous that NY residents are required to pay the costs of public pensions for private employees, and this package of legislation will put a stop to it."
According the state Office of the State Comptroller, for the 2011-12 fiscal year, contributions to the retirement system from government employers totaled more than $4.5 billion. Not only are those private employees receiving benefits in the retirement system, but they often lobby the state government to reduce the high cost of pensions for local governments, all while their employees and officers are collecting benefits that exacerbate the high cost of the pension system.
"There are many hard-working public employees that deserve a public pension, and the system should be maintained for those individuals," Maziarz said. "It is unfair for New York taxpayers to also shoulder the burden of paying for pension benefits for private employees and registered lobbyists, particularly as residents face an ever-increasing tax burden, diminished home values and an uncertain economic outlook. My legislation will reduce pension costs and, in turn, provide relief to hardworking taxpayers. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate and Assembly to pass these bills when we return to session in Albany."


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Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers was proud despite his side's 3-1 win over Zenit on Thursday evening seeing them eliminated from the Europa League on away goals.
The Reds went into the second leg of the last-32 clash 2-0 down on aggregate after defeat in Russia and needed four goals to progress after Hulk scored early on at Anfield.
Two Luis Suarez free kicks and Joe Allen's close-range strike gave Liverpool hope but they ultimately fell short - a fact which did not detract from Rodgers's assessment of his players' performance.
"I'm very proud of the club and the players tonight," he told reporters.
"To come back from a three-goal deficit and put in that effort and quality and character into the game was just an absolutely phenomenal show.
"It was a fantastic night but unfortunately we probably lost the tie over there [in Russia]. At this level to have to score that many goals and for us to nearly do it, it gives me great pride."
The Northern Irishman went on to lament the referee's failure to award the hosts a penalty after Tomas Hubocan appeared to handle in the area in the second half.
"It's probably too soon after the game but it certainly was a penalty, I think everybody could see that," he continued.
"We had momentum throughout the game and it looked a clear penalty, it wasn't one that there was any debate on - especially when you've got a fourth official, or fifth official standing behind the goal and looking clear at it."
Rodgers refused, however, to blame Jamie Carragher for his side's cup exit, after the veteran defender's weak backpass allowed Hulk to score the vital away goal.
"There's no blame. It's probably the first mistake I've seen him make since I've been at the football club and that includes every day in training," he added.


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Central-Trinity: It's timeBy ROGER BROWN
New Hampshire Union Leader
December 17. 2013 12:26AM
UPDATE (11:51 a.m.): Due to tonight's weather forecast, the Manchester School District has postponed all after-school events scheduled for today, including the Manchester High School Central-Trinity High boys' basketball game.
Two teams that many expect to meet in the NHIAA Division I boys' basketball championship game will open the season against one another tonight (7), when Manchester Central plays at Trinity of Manchester's McHugh Gymnasium.
Trinity returned several key pieces from a team that defeated Bishop Guertin of Nashua, 50-46, to win last season's Division I title. That group includes senior guards Patrick Keefe, Ryan Otis and Brad Rhoades, and senior forward Carmen Giampetruzzi.
It will also be the first regular-season game for Trinity's Luke Testa, who transferred from Pinkerton Academy in Derry.
Trinity coach Dave Keefe said he expects junior forward Wenyen Gabriel to play. Gabriel suffered a fractured tibia and had the cast removed Nov. 25.
"He'll definitely be out there as much as he can go," Keefe said. "He's been running the last three or four days. As a coach you don't want to jeopardize anything three or four months down the road, but we'll try to get him in there as much as we can."
In addition to last season's championship, Trinity also won the Division I title in 2009. The Pioneers finished as the Division I runner-up in 2007, 2008 and 2011.
"I have a senior-laden team and they know what it takes to get there (the championship game)," Keefe said. "We know that target is there. It feels like that target has been on our back for the last three or four years. It's almost become a way of life for us."
Trinity will be facing a Central team that Keefe called the deepest and most talented in the state. Central returns four starters from a team that finished 16-4 last season after being upset by BG in the quarterfinals.
"We didn't finish the way we wanted to last year," Central coach Doc Wheeler said. "We expect to have a better team (this season)."
Central's Dawson Dickson is entering his third season as the team's starting point guard. Senior Jon Martin, a 6-foot-4 forward, and junior guard Brett Hanson will be counted on to do much of Central's scoring.
Martin and his younger brother Joe played in Florida last season.
The Central program is seeking its first state championship since 2006, and its first trip to the championship game since 2012.
"It'll be a good matchup," Wheeler said. "I think we'll both learn a lot."


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Peter Krauth: As precious metals go, silver may not have quite the same mystique as gold. But let's be honest: The "white metal" has its backers, too.
Silver Investing: Actions To Take; Confiscation Fears; How To Buy Guide (SLV, SIVR, AGQ, ZSL, GLD)
Gold and Silver Confiscation Fears? Here's The Ultimate Guide To Buying Silver (SLV, AGQ, GLD, ZSL, CEF)
Peter Krauth: Silver prices soared as high as $50 an ounce last year before experiencing a brief correction that took it back below $30. However, despite this blip, mounting inflationary pressures, a weakening dollar, and emerging market demand will see silver retest its record highs in 2012. In fact, this
NYSE:AGQ January 5, 2012 12:49pm


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Police investigate possible selfie on stolen iPad
LOVELAND, Colo. (AP) — Police are investigating whether a man who apparently snapped a selfie with an iPad reported as stolen from a Colorado gymnastics studio played a role in its disappearance.
A picture of the dark-haired, bearded man with a cigarette clamped in his mouth appeared Saturday in Premier Gymnastics' iCloud account, its collection of data stored on remote servers and available online.
After police in Loveland released the photo and asked the public for help finding him, Lt. Rick Arnold said Monday that investigators have identified him. Police say they aren't releasing his name because it's unclear whether he has any connection with the March 1 burglary.
In California, a selfie found on a phone at a church that had been burglarized last month helped lead police to a suspect.


text: Both should be treated equally and both should be allowed to announce upcoming issues - which a lot of times, contains either articles by or about members of our community, or articles about our craft. VCs recent listings of LF film is one example. They both provide a service to our community.