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Long ago and far away, these films were made by maverick, courageous filmmakers who would not be silenced. Some of them risked their careers, and their lives, in order to make their voices heard. Each baby step they took helped lead to the visibility we enjoy today.
Different From the Others (1919)
Before Hitler came to power, German LGBT people enjoyed unprecedented freedoms during the Weimar Era. In spite of Paragraph 175, the German law which criminalized homosexuality, 1920s Berlin was a gay and bohemian mecca. Different From the Others was co-written by Dr. Magnus Hirschfeld, who's Institute For Sexual Science was a voice in the medical community, which called for sexual tolerance.
It's an intense drama about a Paul Korner, a famous, classical violinist who falls in love with a young male pupil, and is promptly blackmailed by a sleazy extortionist.
Conrad Veidt, who that same year starred in The Cabinet of Doctor Caligari, the first feature length horror film, gives a strong performance as Korner in this, cinema's first sympathetic portrayal of a gay man. In later years Veidt worked in Hollywood, appearing in the classic Casablanca (1942).
Different From the Others is available on DVD via Kino Lorber Films.
Madchen in Uniform (1931)
The dark cloud of the Third Reich was looming on the horizon when Madchen (Maidens) in Uniform opened in German cinemas. This film version of a popular, if controversial, play featured the stage cast.
Set in a girl's boarding school, Madchen in Uniform is about a young student who falls in love with a female teacher. Although the teacher doesn't return the romantic feelings, she encourages the young lady to embrace who she is and defends her to the stern headmistress.
During the Nazi era, the film was ordered destroyed, but fortunately a few prints survived. It can now be viewed on You Tube in its entirety, in German with English subtitles.
Bride of Frankenstein (1935)
October is Halloween, and so we remember James Whale's magnificent sequel to his 1931 classic. Whale, a gay man, used the man made monster (Boris Karloff) to express his own loneliness and frustration about living in a time when "people didn't talk about such things."
While the first film was a deadly serious chiller, Bride is a camp masterpiece. Dr. Frankenstein (Colin Clive), is attempting to distance himself from the murderous creature he created. Dr. Praetorius, his old medical school professor, blackmails the doc into creating a woman. As played by Ernest Thesiger, Praetorious is a screaming, effeminate queen who gazes lovingly at his much younger pupil. He also looks at Baroness Frankenstein (Valerie Hobson) with the kind of comic revulsion that could only be a bitchy queen thinking about heterosexual sex.
When the lady monster, the Bride, (Elsa Lanchester) is revealed, she's dressed in a long, flowing gown, her Afro hairdo streaked white. Her gestures are dramatic. For all intents and purposes, she's a drag queen. The entire film, which is filled with morbid, graveyard humor, is played at a hysterically over the top fever pitch.Now viewed as Whale's coming out film, Bride of Frankenstein is a grand entertainment.
It's on DVD & Blu Ray.
Dracula's Daughter (1936)
Gloria Holden is wonderful as the Count's daughter who's repulsed by the blood she's forced to drink in order to survive. She spends much of the film trying to escape her family curse.
1930s audiences must have had heart attacks when the Countess, pretending to be an artist, picks up a young girl. "I'm doing a study of a young girl's head and shoulders," says Lady Dracula. She stares lustfully at her victim's neck & bosom as the girl dutifully removes her top!
In other scenes, the Countess feasts upon men, making her the first bisexual character not only in horror films, but in Hollywood films in general.
The film can be found on the five film DVD box set Dracula: The Legacy Collection.
Tea and Sympathy (1956)
Based on a 1953 play, Tea and Sympathy is about Tom, a slightly effeminate young man (John Kerr, repeating his Broadway role) who prefers classical music and the theater to all the "manly" things boys are "supposed" to enjoy.
Under pressure, he attempts to lose his virginity with a prostitute, but the encounter is a fiasco. Tom attempts suicide.
The play made Tom's homosexuality clear, but the film de-gayed the story, even tacking on a new ending. The film features a famous line that many drag queens have borrowed: "Years from now, when you talk about this, and you will, be kind."
Voodoo Island (1958)
One more for Halloween. Horror icon Boris Karloff leads a motley crew of folks to a deserted tropical island in order to investigate its voodoo legends. Jean Engstrom, a forgotten actress of the 50s & 60s who worked primarily in TV guest shots, plays Claire, an architect who works for a developer that wants to build a hotel on the island.
Claire makes no attempt at hiding her disdain for men. She speaks about belonging to a club that's "private and very exclusive." She flirts openly with the other woman in the party.
Not a great film, Voodoo Island is a fun little drive-in flick. For having the courage to play a lesbian so brazenly during the conservative 1950s, Jean Engstrom, who died in 1997, deserves to be remembered.
The film is on DVD together with The Four Skulls of Jonathan Drake, another chiller of the period.
Victim (1961)
Inspired by Different From the Others, this dark, disturbing British drama is about a closeted, married lawyer (Dirk Bogarde), who decides to track down and stop a blackmailer who's been targeting gay men all over London. The film, made at a time when homosexuality was a criminal offense in England, dares to question straight society's "morals" and effectively conveys the brutality of a system that crushed so many lives. It's on DVD.
The Children's Hour (1962)
Superstars Shirley MacLaine and Audrey Hepburn play lifelong best friends running a girl's school in a small conservative town. A lie from a vicious student accusing them of being lesbians spirals out of control and brings their little schoolhouse crashing down.
None of it's true, is it?
"What if it is true?" MacLaine says in tears. For her, it is, in this searing drama about how much harm hate and prejudice can do. Based on a 1930s play by Lillian Hellman, The Children's Hour is a magnificently acted, thought provoking story. Tragic and unforgettable, it's on DVD.
The Night of the Iguana (1964)
The great Richard Burton stars as a defrocked, alcoholic priest working as a tour guide in Mexico. When 16-year-old tourist Charlotte (Sue Lyon) falls in love with the Father, she's chastised by her "guardian," the repressed, 40ish Miss Fellows (Grayson Hall). It soon becomes clear that the insanely jealous Fellows is deeply and hopelessly in love with her young charge. Hall chews the scenery as an embittered, frustrated woman who can't be honest about who she is. She scored the first Oscar nomination in history for an actor in a gay role--she didn't win.
The film is on DVD.
The Fox (1967)
Based on a novel by D.H. Laurence, who wrote sexually charged stories in the 1920s (Women in Love, Lady Chatterly's Lover), The Fox stars Anne Heywood and Sandy Dennis as a lesbian couple living on the isolated farm they run. Along comes a merchant seaman (Keir Dullea), looking for his grandfather, the farm's previous owner. He soon comes between the women, making love to one and urging her to leave with him.
How the triangle is resolved makes for riveting viewing with a cast that gives strong performances.
Not on DVD.
The Killing of Sister George (1968)
British character actress Beryl Reid is wonderful as a popular but aging soap opera star who's being killed off her show. Closeted, boozy and foul-mouthed, she takes her anger out on her much younger girlfriend (Suzanna York). When Mrs. Croft (Coral Browne) a TV network executive, takes a sudden interest in the GF, things get kinky!
Though not a porn film, the seduction scene between Brown and York is surprisingly graphic. The film was released with an X rating, and moviegoers at the time reportedly watched this sequence in stunned silence.
Director Robert Aldrich had previously called the shots on the chillers Whatever Happened to Baby Jane (1962) and Hush Hush Sweet Charlotte (1965). He infuses Sister George with the same dark, satirical edge he brought to those earlier films.
Almost a comical horror film, the female/female seduction scene was meant to be as shocking as possible. The film also features a lengthy scene set in a London lesbian bar.
It's on DVD.
Staircase (1969)
We end our gay cinema history lesson with Staircase. The film was shot right before the Stonewall Riots and released right after. It's based on a 1966 two character play about a troubled, aging gay couple. The film adds additional characters and takes part of the story out of their apartment.
Richard Burton and Rex Harrison play the couple. Both were huge stars at the time and were known for bedding many women: casting them as a gay couple must have been a publicist's dream! The deadly serious play was "camped up" for the screen, and the film bombed.
Not on DVD, Staircase sometimes airs on TCM for Pride Month. It's now considered a "lost treasure, a rare Hollywood movie to depict the gay experience with wisdom, humor, and warmth," according to film critic Armond White, who's been published in the New York Times and Film Comment Magazine.


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CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez arrived back home in Caracas early Friday after 10 days of medical treatment in Cuba, but his failure to show up at a regional meeting in Brazil raised new questions about his health.
State television showed images of Chavez arriving at Caracas' airport and walking down the steps of the presidential jet wearing a track suit. Chavez smiled and laughed heartily as he chatted with members of his Cabinet including Vice President Nicolas Maduro.
Chavez, who has been fighting an unspecified type of cancer during the past year and half, for unexplained reasons skipped a Friday meeting in Brasilia with leaders of the South American trade bloc Mercosur. The Brazilian government said that Venezuelan Oil Minister Rafael Ramirez would instead be representing his country at the meeting — the first since Venezuela became a full member.
Chavez traveled to Cuba on the night of Nov. 27 after announcing plans to undergo hyperbaric oxygen treatment in Havana. The Venezuelan leader has spent much of the past 18 months battling cancer in the pelvic area, and he said in July that tests had shown he was cancer-free.
While in Cuba, he kept a low profile and did not speak on television. Chavez last appeared publicly during a televised meeting on Nov. 15 in Caracas, and his long absence had renewed speculation among some Venezuelans that his health might be taking a turn for the worse.
Chavez appeared vigorous as he spoke on television upon his arrival in the Venezuelan capital after 2:30 a.m. Friday. He didn't mention his health. Chavez, who travels on a presidential plane, often arrives in Venezuela very late at night or early in the morning.
"I'm very happy, as you all can see, to be arriving here again," Chavez said. "Very happy."
Chavez noted that Thursday marked two months since his Oct. 7 re-election win. Addressing Maduro and recalling other election victories, Chavez said: "Look at how we've come, Nicolas, from victory to victory."
Chavez hasn't given details recently about the hyperbaric oxygen treatment, during which patients breathe pure oxygen while in a pressurized, sealed chamber. The treatment's value is well-established for treating burns and some other medical conditions, and to aid wound healing and help repair bone and tissue damaged by radiation treatments.
The 58-year-old president first underwent cancer surgery in Cuba in June 2011 and later underwent another surgery in February. He has also undergone chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
Hyperbaric oxygen is regularly used to treat infections that can develop after radiation treatment, said Dr. Igor Astsaturov, a gastrointestinal cancer specialist who is not involved in Chavez's treatment.
"I would speculate that this is not directly related to the cancer process itself but maybe an infectious complication of pelvic radiation," said Astsaturov, an assistant professor at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia. He said that such oxygen treatment "is used to treat infections but not tumors."
Throughout his treatments, Chavez has kept many details of his illness secret, including the type of cancer and the precise location of the tumors that were removed.
Chavez said his departure from Cuba had been delayed by a conversation with Fidel Castro, with whom he had been discussing poetry and reciting verses.
The Venezuelan leader also referred to the country's upcoming state gubernatorial elections on Dec. 16, saying: "We're eight days away from the next victory."
The government launched a hashtag phrase on Twitter, "BienvenidoComandante," or Welcome Commander, which became a top trending topic in the country on Friday morning.
During Chavez's absence, the government had announced that the president appointed new ambassadors in various countries, and he released a couple of written statements. But no messages have been posted on Chavez's Twitter account since Nov. 1.
The uncertainty sparked a rally in Venezuelan government bonds during the past week as investors speculated about the possibility that Chavez's health might be worsening. Then, bond prices dipped after the president's return. Even as bond prices declined between 2 and 3 percentage points on Friday, though, they were still trading about 10 percentage points higher than when Chavez announced his return to Cuba on Nov. 27, said Russell Dallen, a securities trader at Caracas Capital Markets.
Despite the lack of information about Chavez's condition, some say they think Venezuelans haven't seemed particularly concerned lately.
"The country has grown used to his prolonged disappearances," Venezuelan journalist Argelia Rios said in a column before Chavez's return that was published Friday in the newspaper El Universal. "What's striking... isn't the absence of the head of state, but rather the lack of interest surrounding his lengthy retreat."
Chavez's opponents have called for him to be more forthcoming about his condition and release a full medical report.
Associated Press writers Marco Sibaja in Brasilia and Fabiola Sanchez in Caracas, and AP freelance video journalist Ricardo Nunes in Caracas contributed to this report.
Ian James on Twitter: http://twitter.com/ianjamesap

subset: commoncrawl


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Abbeyfield Scotland Ltd
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You only have a right to complain to the Scottish Information Commissioner about any response you receive from this body if the request is one for Environmental Information
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The Dark Knight RisesRSS
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The third and final installment in Christopher Nolan's Batman film series, The Dark Knight Rises is the sequel to 2008's The Dark Knight. Christian Bale reprises his role as Bruce Wayne (Batman) while Gary Oldman, Sir Michael Caine & Morgan Freeman all return to play their respective characters as a terrorist leader called Bane arrives in Gotham City, pushing its hero to breaking point and beyond. Anne Hathaway plays Catwoman.
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NASCAR Driver Jeff Burton Leads Heart Walk at Toyota/Save Mart 350 Weekend
Fans can get their Toyota/Save Mart 350 race weekend off on the right foot by joining NASCAR driver Jeff Burton for a one-mile walk and breakfast, all in the name of heart health, June 21.
Burton, driver of the No. 31 Chevrolet, will team up with a Bay Area heart transplant survivor to kick off this year's Toyota/Save Mart 350 in the first-ever Heart Walk to BEAT Heart Disease at Sonoma Raceway. The Heart Walk is a collaboration between Sonoma Raceway, Save Mart Supermarkets, the American Heart Association and General Mills.
The one-mile walk will begin at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, June 21, in the Club 7 hospitality tent above the Turn 7 Terrace of Sonoma Raceway, and will be followed by a heart-healthy breakfast sponsored by General Mills and Save Mart Supermarkets.
"I look forward to taking part in this special Heart Walk on behalf of Cheerios to BEAT Heart Disease and kick off the 25th NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend," said Burton. "I am especially honored to walk beside our survivor; she is an inspiration, not only to me, but to everyone who meets her or hears her story - www.savemart.com/beat."
The Heart Walk ticket package, which includes a seat for Great Clips Fast Friday NASCAR Sprint Cup Series practice, participation in the Heart Walk to BEAT Heart Disease and breakfast, are $25 each and may be purchased through Sonoma Raceway. Five dollars from each ticket will be donated to the American Heart Association to help in the battle against heart disease, the nation's number one killer of women. Fans who already have tickets for the Great Clips Fast Friday can make a simple $5 donation to join the BEAT Heart Walk at the event.
"It will be a great start to an exciting weekend of road course racing, which has provided some of the wildest races on the schedule over the last few years," said Burton.
On-track action will get underway for Burton and the rest of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers beginning with Great Clips Fast Friday practice at noon and a final practice beginning at 3:30 p.m. Tickets for the 25th Toyota/Save Mart 350 are still available and can be purchased by calling 800-870-RACE or visiting www.racesonoma.com/nascar. Additionally, $99 2-Pack tickets for the Sunday race are available for purchase at all Save Mart and Lucky Stores.


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June 7, 2010 at 6pm to June 30, 2011 at 7pm – Talisman Gallery The Talisman Gallery is an Alberta Arts District Last Thursday gallery that opened in 1999 showing works by Portland, Metro, and Regional artists. The gallery exhibits Contemporary, Midcareer, and Em… Organized by Talisman Gallery | Type: last, thursday, gallery, events, fine, art, portland, artists
September 15, 2010 at 6pm to June 29, 2011 at 7pm – Ground Kontrol "Last Wednesday" of every month...Ground Kontrol trades a cover charge for a night of FREE video games and pinball tables! Woot! 21+, $5 cover for FREE GAMES ALL NITE! Doors open at 5pm, DJs start… Organized by | Type: video, arcade, downtown, fun
March 1, 2011 at 10am to June 12, 2011 at 5pm – Oregon Historical Society Ever wonder what it's like to live and work in the most remote corners of the world? At the Oregon History Museum's newest exhibit, you will get to travel the world without ever leaving the state! … Organized by Oregon Historical Society | Type: exhibit
March 9, 2011 at 10am to June 12, 2011 at 5pm – Portland Art Museum The exhibition features three recent large-scale sculptures and a selection of drawings by Los Angeles-based sculptor Peter Shelton. Manifestly precise in execution and explicitly physical, the works… Organized by Portland Art Museum | Type: exhibit
May 24, 2011 to June 26, 2011 – Gerding Theater at the Armory Portland Center Stage will host the world premiere of One Night with Janis Joplin, the new musical event celebrating the life of one of rock 'n roll's greatest legends, beginning May 24, 2011. One Ni… Organized by Ross & Leah Seligman | Type: musical
May 28, 2011 at 12pm to June 19, 2011 at 7pm – Portland Japanese Garden Art in the Garden: Summer 2011 Urban Green: Small Trees for Small Spaces May 28–June 19, Garden hours Garden Pavilion Included with Garden admission The third exhibition in the Living in Harmony w… Organized by Mary Keith Agnew | Type: exhibition, art
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Inspired by the lifestyles of the rich and infamous this awesome new line of pop culture flavoured inflatable pool and beach products are from the world famous airtime brand. They are the perfect summer accessories for this seasons pool side soiree's and beach side parties. Just add some good friends some fresh beats and a selection of chilled bevvies and enjoy the ride - this is luxe.
Estimated Delivery Time Frame: 7-14 business daysReference ID: 194968


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Police seek car that injured two in Everett Turnpike crash
November 22. 2013 1:14AM
NASHUA -- Police are looking for a car they say caused a multi-vehicle crash Thursday night on the Everett Turnpike that sent two people to the hospital.
According to a press release from the New Hampshire State Police , the accident happened around 9:20 p.m. in the area of Exit 6.
Witness said a white pickup truck - which police said was possibly a Ford F-150 with Massachusetts plates - was headed northbound when it lost control near the exit. Police said the truck then clipped another pickup, and that truck struck an SUV.
"The white pickup truck then struck the median jersey barrier, causing the truck's bedcap and its contents to become dislodged from the truck," a press release stated. "The truck's bedcap and its contents then crossed over the median, striking two vehicles traveling southbound, before coming to rest in the roadway."
Police said the truck that caused the accident left the scene and continued heading north. It was carrying a load of compressed wood bricks and patio bricks, and these "were strewn about both sides of the roadway."
Police said that the truck "should have fresh damage to the front end and is missing a headlamp and directional lamp assembly." They added that a caller provided information on "a possible suspect vehicle and matching Massachusetts registration plate. The New Hampshire State Police is currently following up on that information."
Police said two people were send to the hospital with unknown injuries.
The Nashua Police and Fire Departments and the Department of Transportation assisted State Police Troop B out of Bedford at the scene.
Anyone who may have witnessed the accident or who may have further information should contact Trooper Joshua Quigley at 603-223-8307.


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July 30. 2013 1:27PM
Man charged in random Manchester shooting gets lower bail
By DALE VINCENT
New Hampshire Union Leader
Police: Gun found in Manchester shooting is found
Somerville Street shooting victim: 'I thought I was going to die'
Pedestrian shoots passenger in car on Somerville Street
Man charged in Somerville Street shooting had permit for pistol
MANCHESTER – An attorney for Thomas Landry, 25, the city man accused of walking up to a stranger's car and firing into it, wounding a passenger, asked a judge for a major bail reduction so his client can get medical treatment.
William Schultz asked 9th Circuit Court-Manchester District Division Judge Gregory Michael to reduce Landry's bail from $50,000 cash/surety to $10,000, so he can get treatment from the Veterans Administration.
Landry is accused of shooting Josephine Otim on the night of July 15 as she sat in the passenger seat of a car on Somerville Street when the driver slowed down to let Landry cross the street. Police say Landry reached through the driver-side window and shot Otim, a mother of a 7-year-old. Otim had just finished a double shift in a Bedford nursing home.
Saying Landry suffered substantial injuries, including traumatic brain injury during military deployments, Schultz said, "The VA is uniquely in a position to provide the treatment he needs (for PTSD)."
While Schultz argued the incident was out of character for Landry, city prosecutor Gregory Mueller said Landry had been drinking that night, and his previous criminal conviction was for aggravated driving while intoxicated.
He said the shooting was a random act, but "an incredibly violent act." If Landry drinks again, there is the potential for more violence, said Mueller.
The judge, after being told Landry would live with his family at 759 Somerville St., said he was setting bail at $15,000 cash/surety.
In addition, said Michael, "He's going to be there on house arrest." Landry would only be permitted to leave the residence when he was being taken to treatment, which would include transfer to an inpatient program provided by the VA.
Landry had been scheduled for a probable cause hearing Tuesday on the charges stemming from the July 15 incident: first-degree assault, criminal threatening and reckless conduct-deadly weapon, and a status hearing on a disorderly conduct misdemeanor.
Schultz told the court he planned to file a motion Tuesday afternoon, but declined to say what that would address.
Questions were raised at the time of the arrest about Landry's competency to stand trial. Schultz told the judge that Landry has not been given all his medications while being held at the Valley Street Jail.


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Middleton Playground
Lynch St., Middleton St. bet. Lee Ave. and Bedford Ave.
Directions via Google Maps
Middleton Playground, along with the adjacent street, honors Arthur Middleton (1742-1787), one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Middleton was born on June 26, 1742, on his family's plantation near Charleston, South Carolina. At the age of 12, his father sent him to be educated in England at the Hackney School, and at 18 he began study at Trinity Hall, Cambridge. Middleton excelled in the classics, and developed a refined taste for painting, music, and literature while traveling through Europe after his graduation. He returned to South Carolina in 1763 and married Mary Izzard. Middleton's appetite for travel was not satisfied, though, and he returned to Europe with his wife in 1768.


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Contact: Jerry Horn 540-785-4733
Priests for Life praises the work done by Ohio grassroots activists and legislators for passing legislation to allow "Choose Life" license plates.
"Not only do 'Choose Life' license plates make a bold statement for life, but the proceeds for the plates go to support mothers in need and to promote adoption," said Fr. Frank Pavone, National Director of Priests for Life. "I urge as many people as possible to show their support for life and this project by obtaining 'Choose Life' plates for their vehicles."
This bill will be signed into law by Governor Taft in early January, 2005.
Priests for Life is a pro-life educational organization. Please visit their web site at http://www.priestsforlife.org/. For more information about Ohio Choose Life license plates, please visit http://www.ohchoose-life.org.


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Fiscal cliff deal gives NHMS big bucksBy DAVE SOLOMON
New Hampshire Union Leader
January 08. 2013 11:39PM
LOUDON - A tax break for NASCAR race tracks is one of several loopholes in the last-minute deal to avert the fiscal cliff that is under fire from critics, who say the back-room deals are too costly to taxpayers.
But the general manager of the New Hampshire Motor Speedway says the tax benefit has promoted economic development in the Granite State and is being used as intended.
"I can't speak for all the tax breaks that got included with that bundle," said Jerry Gappens, executive vice president of NHMS, referring to the controversy surrounding loopholes that benefit Puerto Rican rum makers, Hollywood movie producers and Wall Street bankers. "But I know in our case, it's stimulating economic growth through reinvestment in our facilities, which gets more fans here and increases jobs."
Knowing the fiscal cliff compromise was likely to pass, lawmakers tacked on several so-called "tax extenders," mixing popular benefits like a deduction for teachers who buy classroom supplies, with tax incentives for film productions and railroad track maintenance. The move drew criticism from both liberal and conservative quarters.
"It's hard to think of anything that could feed the cynicism of the American people more than larding up must-pass emergency legislation with giveaways to special interests and campaign contributors," Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., said in a statement after the bill was approved.
The nonpartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget said the "tax extenders" were ill-advised because their cost is not offset, setting a bad precedent for future extensions.
"As Congress struggles with the debt ceiling, there will be issues that may be in a gray area when it comes to tax subsidies," said Phineas Baxandall, senior analyst for tax and budget policy with the U.S. Public Interest Research Group office in Boston. "But NASCAR doesn't seem like a gray area. This just seems like a special-interest handout."
The tax break for "motor sport entertainment complexes" was first approved in 2003, and has been extended by Congress every year since. It allows the owners of NASCAR racetracks to depreciate the investment in new facilities over seven years instead of 15 to 39 years, thus allowing for a much larger deduction and lower tax bills in the years immediately following the initial capital investment.
The measure has saved the Loudon race track thousands of dollars in tax payments. Gappens says the incentive has been put to good use in ways that benefited racing fans, the town of Loudon and the state as a whole. He couldn't comment on how the deduction was used before 2008, when Speedway Motor Sports, based in Charlotte, N.C., bought the speedway for $340 million, but since then, he said, owners have invested $20 million in improvements.
An economic boost?
Some of the investments encouraged by the tax savings included a $1 million bathroom and shower house for camping guests at the speedway; a $1 million video scoreboard; a $1.2 million building to house ambulance services; and $6.5 million in work on the infield to improve drainage so the area could be used for events. Trams were added to transport fans from parking areas to the stadium.
Gappens also points out that the speedway has doubled employment since 2008, from 17 to 38 full-time jobs, with more hiring when the race season is under way.
Supporters say the accelerated depreciation gives NASCAR a level playing field in the entertainment business, where ball parks and football stadiums are often funded at least in part by taxpayer dollars. Other entertainment venues, like amusement parks, are on a seven-year depreciation schedule for capital investments, they point out.
"It's doing what it was meant to do, encouraging investment," said Gappens. "Off the top of my head, I can't think of too many New Hampshire companies that have invested as much in their businesses in the past four years and have doubled their employment. This tax break helps stimulate that."
As the value of the speedway has increased, its property tax bill has gone up from $600,000 in 2008 and $900,000 in the last tax year, and that doesn't take into account what Gappens called the "trickle-down benefit" for the state, which relies heavily on NASCAR weekends for tourism dollars.
That may all be true, said Baxandall, but he doubts those arguments would carry the day if the tax break had to stand on its own, given the estimated $75 million a year hit to the national treasury.
"Often these kinds of subsidies pass because the special interests behind them are politically powerful and because there is little public attention to them," he said. "If this was a direct appropriation to give money to NASCAR as a budget item, it would get a lot of attention, so it's done through the back door of the tax system."
Business Politics Loudon Top Section Stories Business Headlines


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ALBUQUERQUE Two 6-month-old Mexican gray wolf pups are navigating southwestern New Mexicos Gila forest on their own now that their troubled pack has splintered, worrying environmentalists who think the animals chances of survival are slim.
This weeks efforts to track the Fox Mountain pack show the pups are miles apart and far from the packs alpha male. Environmentalists blame federal wildlife managers, who ordered the packs alpha female the pups mother captured and removed from the wild in response to a string of cattle kills.
The fate of the pack is fueling the latest wave of frustration over the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services handling of the 14-year effort to reintroduce wolves to the American Southwest. The frustration has taken the form of online petitions, public-records requests and now a lawsuit.
WildEarth Guardians, a Santa Fe-based environmental group, announced Wednesday that it was asking a federal court to force the Fish and Wildlife Service to release documents related to management of the Fox Mountain pack. Another public records request filed by the Center for Biological Diversity has gone unanswered. A third has netted hundreds of pages of blacked-out documents, raising questions about decision-making within the wolf program.
Fish and Wildlife Service regional spokeswoman Charna Lefton said Wednesday she could not comment on the pending litigation.
Wendy Keefover, director of WildEarth Guardians carnivore-protection program, questioned the veracity of the evidence used by wildlife managers to link the alpha female to the cattle kills.
We have yet to see proof that the loba actually killed livestock, and none appears to be forthcoming, she said, adding that the female wolf should be reunited with the pack.
The pack has been blamed for six cattle deaths, including four that happened outside the wolf recovery boundaries within a four-month period.
Ranchers have long voiced their opposition to wolf reintroduction, pointing to economic losses as well as safety issues for rural residents. Gov. Susana Martinez even asked the Fish and Wildlife Service to capture and relocate the entire Fox Mountain pack.
Michael Robinson of the Center for Biological Diversity said no livestock killings had been reported in the packs territory for months leading up to the alpha females capture. He said the wolfs removal was unnecessary and now the pups could end up starving.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has treated the removal of this animal as just removing a piece from a chess board, Robinson said. What we see again is that these are social animals and that the remainder of the pack is no longer a pack at this point.
Wildlife managers have been struggling to boost the wolf population and the number of packs in New Mexico and Arizona since the reintroduction program began in 1998. Efforts have been hampered by everything from politics to lawsuits and illegal shootings.
An annual survey done at the beginning of the year showed at least 58 wolves in the wild far below what biologists had initially expected.
The next survey will begin in January, and Lefton said the hope is that some of the pups born this year will make it through the winter.
Wolf program managers said they are monitoring the Fox Mountain pups but no supplemental feeding is planned.
Managers are considering several options for releasing wolves in Arizona to replace three wolves that were killed over the past year, but no final decisions have been made.


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Photos: 'Fast & Furious 6′ Movie Premiere In Hollywood
This past Tuesday (May 21), the cast of 'Fast & Furious 6′ attended the Hollywood premiere for the film at Gibson Amphitheatre in Universal City. Stars Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, and Tyrese Gibson all graced the red carpet. VIBE favorites 2 Chainz and Wiz Khalifa also performed their single "We Own It" for the crowd and attendees.


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Chiefland dropped an emotional Homecoming game 54-42 Friday night, falling at home to district rival Baldwin. While putting up their second-most points of any game the season, the Indians gave up a season high in points. Chiefland, 5-4 overall, finishes the 2012 season with an 0-4 district record. Chiefland's final game is the Senior night home finale against undefeated Trenton on Nov. 9.
Head coach Aaron Richardson told his team after the game he was proud of their effort. Chiefland stayed close throughout the game and a few bad breaks may have cost them a victory. The Indians gave up five turnovers, including four in the first half and also allowed two special teams touchdowns.
Chiefland's running game, lead by sophomore Alphonso Timmons, was again strong. Along with Keith Smith and Shaquille Patterson, the Indians scored five touchdowns on offense. Deshawn Rolland, who also saw significant action in the back field and the defensive secondary, missed most of the second half with a concussion. G.G. McClendon added another score on a kick-off return.
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Christians flee attacks in Nigeria's northeast
YOLA, Nigeria (AP) — Before the usher could finish warning worshippers of the gunmen approaching, the attackers were storming into the church, locking the main door, exploding homemade bombs and firing into the congregation.
The shooting continued as some people scrambled to escape out of windows and through the back door of the sacristy.
Some had their throats slit in last Sunday's attack on St. Paul's Roman Catholic Church in Wada Chakawa village in northeast Nigeria.
"My brother was slaughtered like ram," said Moses Yohanna whose elder brother died in the attack. "Our lives are threatened and put in danger (and there is) no security."
Rahilla Ibrahim, whose husband and child were among at least 45 people killed, said: "We saw hell. The attackers were merciless." Pregnant and disconsolate, Ibrahim sat in front of the charred mud walls that are all that remain of her hut.
With no family or home left, she sees no point in running. But many other villagers have fled, vowing not to return until their lives can be assured in a 4-year-old Islamic uprising by extremists who want to impose Shariah law across Africa's biggest oil producer, which is divided about equally between Christians and Muslims.
Attacks have continued despite a 8-month-old state of emergency and the deployment of thousands of troops.
Government officials on Friday visited Wada Chakawa, carrying bags of maize and rice and promising more emergency supplies were on the way.
But some villages in northeast Adamawa state have turned into ghost towns with thousands of Christians fleeing attacks by suspected Islamic militants that have killed more than 50 people in the area this week, church leaders said.
The state commissioner for border integration, Hamza Bello, said the state government is worried about the frequent influx of people seeking refuge from neighboring Borno state.
"So far, no fewer than 3,000 people ... have been confirmed to have fled to Adamawa due to the fear of terrorists' attacks," the commissioner said. But attacks in Adamawa are also frequent.
The Rev. Raymond Danboyi, a spokesman for the Catholic diocesee of Yola, said those who have fled are in desperate need of help.
Another church leader, the Rev. Jerome Odineze, said "We are very confused and depressed because there's not much you can do ... The church cannot mobilize and provide security. The resources aren't there."
Lack of security sometimes makes it impossible to worship, he said. "Sometimes you can't have a church service at all. Worship is out of the question in some places."
On Friday, gunmen ransacked the mainly Christian village of Sabon Garin Yamdula in Adamawa, killing a pastor before vigilante youths firing guns set them to flight and soldiers later deployed. Madagali council chairman Ularamu said Saturday the suspected Islamic militants also tried to burn down the village before being driven away. He said the pastor died in the hospital. He could not confirm reports of other casualties.
In a separate attack, police reported that a bus Friday set off an improved explosive device on the highway through nearby Kuthra village, killing seven passengers. Kuthra lies only 18 kilometers (11 miles) across the Adamawa state border in Borno state.
Thousands of Muslims have been killed in such indiscriminate attacks though recently the militants have targeted Christians.
Associated Press writer Carley Petesch contributed to this report from Lagos, Nigeria.


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Michael Vick understands everything is being evaluated -- including quarterback -- after the Eagles' 30-17 loss to the Atlanta Falcons dropped the team to 3-4.
"Obviously, he's thinking about making a change at the quarterback position," Vick said of Andy Reid. "The thing I do know, and I'll go watch the film and I'll evaluate myself, is that I'm giving us every opportunity to win. I'm trying my hardest. Something don't go right when I want them to. Some things do. If that's a decision that coach wants to make, then I support it."
After his news conference, Vick was asked again about his remarks.
It's tough when you know everything is in the balance, but that's the decision that coach is thinking about making, and I'm going to fight until he says, 'Come on out,' and he takes me out of the game," Vick said.
Vick went 21 of 35 for 191 yards and one touchdown on Sunday. He also rushed for 45 yards.
When Vick was asked if he's playing like a franchise quarterback, he wavered. He keeps talking about effort, but performance also needs to be there.
"I don't know if playing like a franchise quarterbacks means throwing three or four touchdowns week in and week out and doing everything right," Vick said. "But I know I've been there before and despite it all, I still feel like I do a lot of positive things out there and that's all I can ask. But I still have to evaluate myself and be critical of myself and we'll go from there."
Wide receiver DeSean Jackson said he's "sticking with" Vick.
"He's here, he's our quarterback," Jackson said. "Until something different happens, I got to roll with it. I feel he does a good job. Just got to make it easier on everybody."


text: Trust & EstatesAs with all parts of managing your money and assets, establishing a trust or preparing an estate plan requires a thorough understanding of your individual goals and needs. Our trust and estate professionals invest in understanding your unique situation before facilitating the optimal solution for you. Trustee services should be responsive and flexible. Ours are. Our trust professionals understand fiduciary law. Our trust professionals work closely with you and your advisors to ensure a smooth, complete pre-planning process. Our estate professionals can ease your estate and probate burden by serving as Personal Representatives or Conservators. Whether planning for the future day-to-day needs of your family, or planning for an enduring family or charitable legacy, enjoy the state-of-the-art service, personal care, and financial planning acumen that only the largest independent Maine-based bank can provide. Email us at email@example.com or call 1.877.Bangor1 (1.877.226.4671). Investment products (1) are not insured by the FDIC or any other agency of the United States, (2) are not deposits or other obligations of, or guaranteed by, Bangor Savings Bank, and (3) are subject to investment risk, including possible loss of principal amount invested.


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Reading the forum on your cell phone? There's an easier way. We've enabled a Tapatalk app that makes browsing the forum a whole lot easier. Check it out in the iPhone or Android store if you don't own it already.
What about the place over in Swanzey NH I climbed there a few times years ago.Not sure what I was climbing but there were a few good cracks. Jim
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Ohio State hoping for its special teams to be special again in 2012
- Written by MATT HAMMOND
Editor's Note: This is the sixth of a six-part series previewing this year's Ohio State football team.
Chris Fields, shown returning a punt against Toledo last year, will likely fill the punt return duties this fall for the Buckeyes until Jordan Hall returns from a foot injury. (EXAMINER FILE PHOTO)
He is known for creating high-powered offenses, but Urban Meyer also takes pride in working with special teams.
As he did at Florida, Meyer will coach the special teams units at Ohio State. With the Gators, he tutored star kick returner Brandon James and punter Chas Henry, who was the winner of the 2010 Ray Guy Award as the nation's top punter.
Special teams have been a weakness in recent years for the Buckeyes. A prime example came in Ohio State's 24-17 loss to Florida in the Gator Bowl in January.
In that game, the Buckeyes gave up a 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, had a punt blocked that was returned for a TD and kicker Drew Basil started the game with a kickoff out of bounds.
Will the special teams play be better in 2012? Many fans would respond to that question by saying it can't get any worse.
Read complete story in Saturday's Examiner. CLICK HERE to subscribe today!


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Class-Leading Miniature Pressure Sensor from STMicroelectronics Powers New Chapter in Mobile Innovation
Tiny sensor leveraging ST MEMS expertise boosts smartphone support for location-based services and new high-value apps
The LPS25H miniature barometric pressure sensor from STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications, is winning market share at leading smartphone manufacturers by providing innovative and unique features optimized for mobile applications.
Demands for new and better smartphones and tablets will accelerate the global market for pressure sensors like the LPS25H to $375 million by 2017 for consumer electronic applications, according to IHS(1). The sensors improve indoor navigation, enabling accurate floor detection and enhanced location-based services. Barometric pressure data also aids dead-reckoning calculations and opens the door to new smartphone apps such as weather analyzers and health and sports monitors.
The LPS25H is a MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) sensor, benefiting from ST's position as the world's top MEMS supplier and owner of over 900 MEMS-related patents and patent applications worldwide. The unique features of this sensor include enhanced temperature compensation which allows apps to perform consistently in changing environments, . In addition, auto-zero capability allows instant accuracy upon entering a building together with additional value-added features like thresholds and interrupts.. In addition to mobile applications, ST's LPS25H is also used in wearable, industrial, and smart-home systems.
Commenting on the first design wins by the LPS25H, Francesco Italia, General Manager, High-End Sensor and Analog Division, STMicroelectronics, said, "ST's new pressure sensor combines advanced functionality and best-in-class quality, giving our customers the confidence to deliver innovative new products to market ahead of the curve. We expect new smartphones containing the LPS25H to enjoy considerable success, offering great features that deliver significant added value for end users."
The tiny 2.5mm x 2.5mm x 1mm sensor occupies minimal space and has very low operating current of 4µA to preserve battery life. Ultra low-noise design helps ensure accuracy to within ±0.2mbar.
Samples of the LPS25H in Cavity-Holed LGA (HCLGA) package are available now, priced at $1.40 for 1000 pieces.
Further technical information: Inside the LPS25H
The LPS25H integrates the MEMS sensing element and IC interface in the same package. The sensing element detects absolute pressure and consists of a suspended membrane realized inside a single mono-silicon substrate. An intrinsic mechanical stopper protects against membrane breakage. ST's advanced manufacturing process technology enables a significantly smaller membrane size compared to traditionally built silicon micro-machined membranes.
The IC interface is manufactured using a standard CMOS process, which allows a high level of integration and accurate trimming of the circuit to match the characteristics of the sensing element. The temperature compensation algorithm applies second-order (quadratic) correction to achieve best-in-class accuracy independent of temperature variation over a wide range. By integrating a data-storage FIFO (First-In First-Out memory) and supporting user-controlled thresholds and interrupts, the LPS25H minimizes demand on system resources and helps simplify software design.
Designers working with the LPS25H can take advantage of ST's extensive MEMS expertise and development ecosystem, which includes the LPS25H pressure sensor evaluation kit with dedicated adapter board (STEVAL-MKI142V1) for the STEVAL-MKI109V2 motherboard.
Click here for the high-resolution photo
About STMicroelectronics
ST is a global leader in the semiconductor market serving customers across the spectrum of sense and power and automotive products and embedded processing solutions. From energy management and savings to trust and data security, from healthcare and wellness to smart consumer devices, in the home, car and office, at work and at play, ST is found everywhere microelectronics make a positive and innovative contribution to people's life. By getting more from technology to get more from life, ST stands for life.augmented.
In 2013, the Company's net revenues were $8.08 billion. Further information on ST can be found at www.st.com.
(1) IHS MEMS and Sensors Market Tracker, H1 2013


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Welcome, Cub Scout leader! You have chosen to make an important difference in the lives of the boys in your den and pack. With your guidance as their leader, the Cub Scouts will develop character, leadership skills, responsibility, fitness, and a love for fun with a purpose. Your role as a den leader or Cubmaster is a critical one to a boy's success and continued involvement in Cub Scouting.
The Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide is designed to help prepare you for your den and pack meetings and to provide you with the tools necessary to advance your boys along the Cub Scout advancement trail while having fun. Below you will find the contents of the Resource Guide in an online form.
Provides the fundamental purpose, methods, and ideals of Cub Scouting as well as the structure of how the program works and key tips about conducting den and pack meetings.
The core of the Cub Scouts delivery method; represents the guide to advancement. Used as indicated, they are the key to advancement and retaining boys throughout the program.
Provides guidance on planning and executing the monthly pack meetings for Cub masters and committee members. It is important for den leaders as they may have pack meeting responsibilities for themselves or their den members.
Resources needed by the den leader and Cubmaster to effectively carry out their responsibilities. These resources are referenced in the den and pack meeting plans and should be used as needed.
***Please note National is updating the new Cub Scout Advancement den meeting plans for fall 2015


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The individual difference results also provide clues as to how participants in both groups were able to identify speech in the SWS. Relationships between the recognition point when speech was noticed and activity in left IFG, medial PFC, and middle cingulate cortex (MCC) imply the involvement of both speech-motor processes and amodal, 'default mode' regions ( Raichle et al. , 2001 ). The negative correlation with left IFG activation is consistent with the deployment of this region for parsing speech in adverse listening conditions, and may reflect the accessing of word meanings and segments to support perception via prior knowledge ( Davis and Johnsrude, 2003 ; Obleser and Kotz, 2010 ; Sohoglu et al. , 2012 ; Du et al. , 2014 ). For instance, Eisner et al. (2010) found that the recruitment of the left IFG predicts individual differences in the listeners' ability to decode vocoded and spectrally shifted speech. Activity in the medial PFC, in contrast, is often linked with the default mode network (DMN) and would be consistent with participants taking longer to notice potentially intelligible SWS due to a lack of external engagement ( Buckner et al. , 2008 ). The MCC cluster observed here is at the rostral border of the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and is sometimes classified as part of the dorsal subdivision of Brodmann area 23 ( Cauda et al. , 2010 ), which is distinguished from ventral PCC regions posterior to the splenium ( Vogt, 2016 ). Although the PCC and surrounding posterior midline structures are also associated with DMN-like task-negative activity, its dorsal subcomponents have been linked to networks responsible for cognitive control and external attention ( Cauda et al. , 2010 ; Leech et al. , 2011 ; Leech and Sharp, 2014 ).
Some limitations of the present study must be acknowledged. First, for practical reasons—and because of the goals of the experiment—the behavioural assessment of participants' ability to discriminate and understand SWS had to be conducted outside the scanner and followed a long period of training and exposure to the stimuli. As such, it is possible that any post-scan group differences were masked or trained out as a result of the procedure, given that decoding of other kinds of degraded auditory stimuli—such as noise-vocoded speech—can improve over time and with training ( Davis et al. , 2005 ). However, neither group performed at ceiling on the post-scan task: keyword accuracy after scanning was reasonably low in both groups compared to prior studies using distorted speech ( McGettigan et al. , 2012 ), despite the fact that speech/non-speech discrimination was good. In future studies it will be important to assess NCVH participants' abilities to decode SWS under a variety of listening conditions to measure decoding skill and adaptation more directly.
Through My Centegra Physician Care Patient Portal,you can communicate with your health care team, request test results, request appointments and receive appointment reminders, request prescription refills, request you personal patient plan and request your medical records. This also allows you to access and print your results free of charge.
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Please note that once the proxy form is received it could take several business days to complete the request.
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Police tapes released in case of state rep running over ducksBy KIMBERLY HOUGHTON
Union Leader Correspondent
January 16. 2014 10:24PM
NASHUA - The state Attorney General's Office says it has obtained copies of a police report and audio tapes from the night that state Rep. David Campbell ran over several ducks with his car outside a city hotel.
"I haven't reviewed anything yet," Attorney General Joe Foster told the New Hampshire Union Leader Thursday. "We are going to review the circumstances."
Although Campbell has already paid a fine for killing five ducks with his vehicle on Dec. 23 outside the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Nashua, new revelations have surfaced alleging that Campbell was drunk at the time of the crash, and that Nashua Police Commissioner Thomas Pappas picked him up following the accident.
Click below to listen to the tapes:
Campbell has not been charged with drunken driving.
"If you could send us an officer by, we've had a - well, there's a gentleman who is drunk," Connor Lippman, the night manager at the hotel told police when he called for assistance around 10 p.m. on Dec. 23. "He ran over four or five ducks right in the parking lot, and we might have an altercation between him and another guest who will not let this issue go."
Campbell has repeatedly apologized for the accident, maintains he was not intoxicated and claims he left before police arrived in order to defuse a potentially threatening situation from a man feeding the ducks.
The bartender at the hotel said Campbell had two drinks during the span of dinner and did not appear drunk when he left.
The bar receipt does say that Campbell purchased four drinks, however there were other people in his party, according to the police report. Campbell claimed he had just two.
According to a police report, Pappas - a longtime friend and attorney for Campbell - ultimately picked up Campbell and gave him a ride following the incident. Two hours after the crash, shortly after midnight, Pappas called the police station, identified himself as a police commissioner and asked if Campbell could come into the station the following morning for questioning, according to the police report and an audio recording of the phone conversation released by the Nashua Police Department.
"He's a friend of mine ... is it OK if I have him come to the station tomorrow morning," Pappas asked Sgt. Carlos Camacho, noting that Campbell was currently at another friend's house with a dead cell phone. The police sergeant agreed, saying the investigating officer had already left for the night.
"The fact that Mr. Campbell was a state representative, and that he reached out to an attorney/friend who happened to be a police commissioner, had no bearing or influence whatsoever into our responsibility to look into this matter," Police Chief John Seusing said this week.
All three members of the Nashua Police Commission are remaining mum on Pappas' involvement. Pappas has refused to answer phone calls or emails from the New Hampshire Union Leader seeking comment. The two remaining police commissioners - Thomas Maffee and Robert Valade - did not return phone calls Thursday.
Mayor Donnalee Lozeau said she has not contacted the Attorney General's Office to further probe into the matter.
"I do think, however, that it would be important to hear from the AG," said Lozeau.
Lozeau would not comment on Pappas' intervention on behalf of Campbell, although she did say that she has heard concerns from some citizens about the situation.
Foster said Thursday that a formal investigation into the matter has not been opened.
When asked whether his agency has been in contact with the Nashua Police Department about the matter, Foster said, "not in a detailed fashion," declining to elaborate.
Seusing is not commenting on specifics of the case, other than saying the department investigated it thoroughly and brought forth what it believed to be the appropriate charges.
Capt. James Lima declined to comment on the newest allegations that Campbell was intoxicated, nor would he say whether he was concerned about Pappas' intervention the night of the accident.
Campbell, D-Nashua, pleaded no contest last week to one count of illegal taking of waterfowl for killing the five mallard ducks. He paid a fine of $620 for the violation, a $75 restitution payment to New Hampshire Fish and Game and a voluntary donation of $695 to New Hampshire Audubon.
Crime, law and justice Politics Animals Nashua Top Section Stories


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No. 1 seed eliminates Post 109 with a 3-2 win on Saturday in the first round of the American Legion playoffs.
GAFFNEY — Not many outside Cherokee County likely expected bottom-seeded Gaffney to put up much of a fight in the first round of the American Legion baseball playoffs against top-seeded Greenwood.
After all, Gaffney qualified with a losing record and only because the league's fourth-place team fell out of that spot on the final day of the regular season. Greenwood, meanwhile, easily won its division, suffering only one loss since the campaign began in May.
But Greenwood was pushed all the way to the nervous end in a best-of-five series, finally clinching Saturday afternoon on a rolling catch in short left field with the bases loaded in the ninth inning to secure a 3-2 victory at Commissioners Field.
The struggles didn't surprise Greenwood head coach Mack Hite.
"I expected it," he said. "We've been No. 1 all season and were feeling real good, maybe too good. I have a lot of respect for Gaffney's program. They always do a great job. They really, really played us tough and we were fortunate to come out of this series alive."
Greenwood had to rally from 2-1 in the series and 2-1 in this game after Gaffney scored twice in the top of the seventh inning. Post 20 answered in the bottom half — as the home team because of what the weather this week did to the schedule — on a two-out, two-run single by Cody Adams.
Post 109 loaded the bases in its last at-bat, but a fly ball to short left was gloved by the shortstop and Greenwood players rushed off in celebration.
"We pushed them as far as we could," Gaffney head coach Derek Byars said. "We battled and battled. I'm proud of the guys."
Greenwood (16-3) will open the second round of the playoffs at home next week against either Orangeburg or Rock Hill, but it might not be Monday because that series is still ongoing.
Josh Chaney pitched all nine innings for Post 20, the first six without allowing a run and the first four without allowing a hit or walk. He finished with a seven-hitter, all singles, while striking out four.
"He's been our best bullpen guy and he's been there all year, with a spot start here and there," Hite said. "We had him rested enough to start in this one. On the ride over, I said, 'Wouldn't it be great if he pitched a complete game?' He did an unbelievable job. It was a great performance."
Post 20 took the lead in the second inning on a double by Adams and an RBI single by Trae Coleman. Greenwood left the bases loaded with one out, however, and did it again in the fourth as the lead stayed at 1-0. In the fifth, Coleman in center field caught a sinking line drive while sliding to his knees and Spartanburg Methodist College signee Blake Smith in right went deep in the alley to end the inning with two on base.
"That was a little frustrating, but it did give us some confidence," Byars said. "We finally had people on and hit the ball hard. It gave us the feeling that we could score."
Gaffney (8-13) did that in the seventh on a walk by Bradley Norman and a hit by Dillon Palencia (another SMC signee), followed by a sacrifice bunt by Jimmy Yelton and a sacrifice fly by A.J. Greer. Will Byars gave Post 109 the lead with a base hit up the middle on the next pitch.
The lead didn't last long. Greenwood got back-to-back hits by Matthew Bridges and Jo-Jo Chaney, loaded the bases on a two-out infield hit by Isaiah Furqueron and then Adams put Post 20 in front on a solid single to left.
Jordan Wilkinson started on the mound for Gaffney but only lasted two batters into the fourth inning because of a blister. Tyler Parker came in and walked two straight but kept Greenwood off the scoreboard because he picked off a runner at second. Bradley Norman moved over from third base to finish the seventh and pitch a scoreless eighth.


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We invite participants for an event that will pioneer the mining of the Encyclopedia of Life (http://eol.org) and the Biodiversity Heritage Library (http://www.biodiversitylibrary.org) to address outstanding and novel questions about the ecology and evolution of biodiversity. We aim to identify questions and data for which biologists may lack informatics skills and resources to address or analyze successfully; and symmetrically, to guide informaticians to pressing ecological and evolutionary questions. We seek to make actual discoveries through joint activities and to test the "computability" of major biodiversity databases.
We invite proposals for synthetic research on any aspect of biological science that will leverage EOL and BHL resources. Successful applicants will be matched with an informatician, in 2 person teams, and receive support to travel to and work on-site at the National Evolutionary Synthesis Center for 4 days.
Applications for participation will be evaluated on the extent to which they
- address an important and outstanding biological question,
- are "risky" endeavors but with a reasonable chance of success,
- reflect EOL's mission to empower scientific research by providing comprehensive and trusted biodiversity data and/or NESCent's scientific mission to advance research that addresses fundamental questions in evolutionary science. Both organizations promote the integration of methods, concepts, and data within and across disciplines (for more on the context and a classification of synthesis in evolutionary science please read Linking Big: The Continuing Promise of Evolutionary Synthesis),
- provide evidence that sufficient data are available to tackle the question,
- provide evidence that appropriate analytical tools are available or will be developed during the event,
generate products that typically fall into three broad categories (in order of importance):
- Synthetic papers and reviews,
- Software or mathematical tools that solve a major analytical problem.
- New open data for Encyclopedia of Life allowing others to build on your foundation.
We will not support collection of original data or field research, but encourage the mining of public and private databases such as EOL and BHL. NESCent is committed to making data, databases, software and other products that are developed as part of NESCent activities available to the broader scientific community. Applicants should review the Data And Software Policy for NESCent.
Proposals will be evaluated in terms of both the scientific value of the project and the qualifications of the applicant. Visitors will receive support for travel to and from NESCent, lodging, and a per diem for meals not provided.
Before you Apply
All applicants are encouraged to contact Craig McClain, Assistant Director of Science of NESCent, or Cynthia Parr, Chief Scientist of Encyclopedia of Life, for feedback on project ideas. Proposals will be considered through November 15. The event will likely take place February 3-7, 2014. Please review our Reporting Requirements, Travel Guidelines, and Data and Software Policy before applying.
Proposals Guidelines
Proposals are short and not to exceed 2 single-spaced (12-pt type) pages, plus a 2-page CV. Proposals should be organized as follows:
- Title (80 characters max)
- Name and contact information
- Project Summary (250 words max)
- Public Summary (250 words max) – written for the public and visible on the NESCent web site
- Introduction and Goals – A statement of the outstanding question being addressed and a concise review of the concept and the literature to place the project in context.
- Proposed Activities - A clear statement of any specific data (include citations or urls) and analytical tools that will be required for the project. The proposal should also include a clear statement on how synthesis will occur. Letters of support are required from the proprietor of datasets, analytical tools, or software not publically available or owned by the applicant or managed by EOL and BHL.
- Rationale for support - Why can this activity be most effectively conducted at NESCent and with the Encyclopedia of Life or BHL.
- Anticipated IT Needs - Briefly describe any needs for IT support that are important to the success of the proposed project. Please indicate whether development of software will be required. Also, briefly describe your plans to make resulting data and software available; including any conditions that might limit your ability to make these available. Please remember you need not possess the informatics skills to address the questions but do need to identify what skills are lacking. You may propose an informatician to collaborate with. Prior contact and letter of support with the informatician is encouraged. If no teammate is suggested EOL/NESCent will work to identify proper support for you.
- Anticipated Results - include a clear statement of anticipated papers, data and software products, and anticipated public release of data and products
- Short CV of the applicant(s) (2 pages)
Proposal Submission
Proposals will be accepted in digital format only as a single pdf file. Graphics should be embedded directly into the proposal document. Note that proposals should be submitted as a single pdf file including all of the components listed above, including the CV. Email your proposal to Craig McClain and Cynthia Parr, by November 15, 2013.
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The open availability of data, software source code, methods, and results is good scientific practice and a key ingredient of synthetic research. NESCent expects that all data and software created through NESCent-sponsored activities be made publicly available no later than one year after the conclusion of the NESCent award, or immediately upon publication of an associated article, whichever comes earlier. For more information please visit our Data, Software and Publication Policy.
Funding for this opportunity is generously provided by the Richard Lounsbery Foundation.


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NEW YORK (AP) - Anonymous telephone threats against commercial airliners on Monday, possibly from the same source, caused a scare involving at least six international flights at airports in New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts.
Authorities said the threats did not appear to be credible. They described searches done on the jets as a precaution.
In one instance Monday morning, U.S. military jets escorted an Air France flight into New York City after someone claimed a chemical weapon was aboard the aircraft, the FBI said.
"Out of an abundance of caution, Air France flight number 22 was escorted to John F. Kennedy airport by U.S. Air Force fighter jets following a...


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Spice up game night with these family-friendly favorites! Join the experts at Kaplan Toys as they count down their favorite family games, that will have you saying, "Game on, Grandma!"
#5: Spot It™
This fast-paced party game will train your eyes to look for a match to your card and spot it! Race against your opponents as you try to find a match for every card. Be careful though, every card only has ONE match! A sharp eye and a bit of speed will aid you on your way to becoming a master matcher! For 2-8 players. 6 years & up.
Item Number: 00252
Price: $11.95
#4: Set Game
Improve pattern recognition, visual perception and critical thinking skills with this fast-paced game! Shout "SET!" and everyone checks to see if you have discovered the three cards that form a SET from the twelve laid face up on the table. The dealer lays out three more cards. The search starts again. There are no turns, which improves time on task. 6 years & up.
Item Number: 87675
Price: $12.95
#3: Bananagrams
In this unique word game, players use tiles to create words crossword-style. The first player to use all their tiles is the winner. With multiple ways to play, this game is perfect for beginning spellers, as well as more advanced players. No pencil, paper, or board required. 7 years & up.
Item Number: 18011
Price: $14.95
#2: Quirkle
Mix, match, score, and win! A strategy game based on color and shape rather than letters. Qwirkle is as simple as matching colors and shapes, but well planned strategy and tactical maneuvers will help you win the game. Earn points by building rows and columns of blocks that share a common shape or color. 108 wooden blocks. 2 to 4 players. 6 years & up.
Item Number: 00536
Price: $24.95
Apples to Apples, Jr brings the hilarious card and party game to younger players. Players will delight in all the crazy comparisons, while expanding their vocabulary and thinking skills at the same time. The game is as easy as comparing apples to apples. Just open the box, deal the RED APPLE cards to each player, and you're ready to go! 9 years & up.
Item Number: 92213
Price: $21.95


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Reviewed by Hailey E (age 7)
My favorite part was when she got to keep a dog, because it made me happy. I liked this book because it made me think about my dog when he was a puppy. Evie made me think about what I would do if I did not want to sell a dog.
I would recommend this book for people that like dogs, because it has dogs in it.


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Getting away from it all gets harder and harder, as cell phones and 4G devices keep us tapped into our lives. These 10 getaways take up that challenge, spiriting you away from worldly cares. And we promise you won't miss civilization one bit.
Click ahead for the world's most remote resorts!
By Nicole Frehsee, Special to CNBC.com
Posted 3 May 2012


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Following are approved statements by the Alzheimer's Association National Board of Directors or the Alzheimer's Association Medical and Scientific Advisory Council. These statements provide the Association's positions around ethical, medical and care topics related to Alzheimer's disease or dementia. Statements are based on relevant research, best practice and expert opinion at the time of statement development.
Feeding Issues in Advanced Dementia
Generic Drugs and Alzheimer's Disease
Medical Foods, Dietary Supplements and "Nutraceuticals"
Protection of Participants in Research


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Looking for a vacation rental in Sauveterre? Tripping.com has 148 vacation rental homes available in Sauveterre. You'll find 0 studios, 49 1-bedroom, 12 2-bedroom and 87 rentals with 3 or more bedrooms ranging from $36 a night. For extra convenience, many of these vacation homes can be booked directly online.
The average price of a nightly rental in Sauveterre is $210 while the average price of a weekly rental is $967. For those looking for more than a short term rental such as corporate rentals, extended stays or long term rentals, the average monthly price of a Sauveterre home is $25.
Wondering if you can bring your dog or cat along with you? There are 42 pet-friendly vacation rentals available in Sauveterre. In addition to accommodating pets, Sauveterre rentals offer a variety of amenities. In particular, 133 rentals have Internet and WiFi, 128 have TV and/or cable and 87 have a pool or hot tub.
Search properties from 7 vacation rental sites in Sauveterre where the top providers in that area are HomeAway, TripAdvisor, and Booking.com. There are 65 HomeAway rentals, 27 TripAdvisor short term rentals and 24 Booking.com vacation rentals.


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Brand Name: OEM
Material: Plastic Size: Medium Theme: Festival
is_customized: yes Scenarios: Wall Style: Europe Specification: Single-piece Package Classification: For Wall Pattern: Plane Wall Sticker
Instantly removable, repositionable and reusable, with no harm or damage to the surface.
Can be placed on the wall, fridge, tile and any other smooth and clean surfaces.
Can be placed to cover the original color or stains on the wall.
No measuring, no cutting, just peel and stick.
You need to make sure the surface is clean and dry before you stick it. Any greasy dirt or water will influence the perfection of the sticker.
Sometimes there might be some bubbles appear in big stickers, if this happens please remove the bubble or just pin it.
When the wall is wet due to some unexpected reasons, it might have bad influences on the sticker, when this happens please dry the wall and the sticker with an air blower or simply stick it again when the wall is dry.
Material: PVC
Sheet Size: 50 * 70cm / 19.7 * 27.6in
Weight: 100g / 3.53oz
Package List:
1 * Sheet of Sticker
Shipping: 1.We guarantee to ship goods out within 24-72 hour after payment confirmation except hoday.
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4.We are not responsible for delays causedby the customs,Import duties,taxes or other customscharges. Warranty: 1.All items have 1 year guarantee.IF your purchase do not meet merchantable quaty, fitness for purpose or match the description, We can make sure your issues are resolved .
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3.For defective or faulty products,please take photos or videos,we would resend or refund after confirmation. Desktop Table Clocks Despertador Music Starry Star Sky Projection Alarm Clock Calendar Thermometer For Best Gift Relogio De MesaUSD 8.12/piece20 * 35cm DIY Handmade Room Decal Diamond Painting Set Coffee Cups Resin Rhinestone Pasted Cross Stitch for Home DecorationUSD 8.81/pieceRemovable Adesivo De Parede Home Decoration Digits Wall Clock Sticker Set DIY Mirror Effect Acryc Glass DecalUSD 5.85/pieceNew Workplace Safety Suppes Eyes Protection Clear Protective Glasses Wind and Dust Anti-fog Lab Medical Use Safety GogglesUSD 1.79/pieceWireless Energy Saving Remote Control Power Outlet US Plug Socket Switch Set for Lamps 120V-230V Electronic 2015 NewUSD 9.20/set100FT Ultraght 3X Expandable Garden Magic Water Hose Pipe + Faucet Connector + Fast Connector + Multifunctional Spray NozzleUSD 36.67/piece
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Packaging Details Unit
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Weight: 0.126kg (0.28lb.)
Package Size: 50cm x 8cm x 8cm (19.69in x 3.15in x 3.15in)
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by Ashley
Date Added: 06/04/2017
---Great price and fantastic delivery time.Found the item I wanted cheaper on gear zone than anywhere else. Brilliant customer service, very prompt, great deal and brilliant delivery time. Can't fault them.
Rating: [5 of 5 Stars]
by Mary Swindlehurst
Date Added: 06/04/2017
Very happy Easy ordering quick delivery, great shoes.
Rating: [5 of 5 Stars]
by Advertisement Rob Barkaway Woking, GB
Date Added: 06/04/2017
08 December 2011 <br/>EXCELLENT Excellent product just how I wanted I had a polo t -shirt embroidered with writing nice quality and it was perfect, the delivery was very quick which means it is now wrapped and under the christmas tree, communication was excellent I would reccomend this to everyone Overall a really good service Comment (0) Find useful Reply as company Report Rachael Ward Durham, GB
Rating: [5 of 5 Stars]
by Michael Williams
Date Added: 06/04/2017
16 November 2011 Top quality! Top quality door handles at a price which no one could get anywhere near,thank you!
Rating: [5 of 5 Stars]
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Date Added: 06/04/2017
Excellent serviceReally helpful company. Excellent service and fast delivery. Highly recommended company
Rating: [5 of 5 Stars]
by P Berry
Date Added: 06/04/2017
04 October 2012 Solid and tactile Having seen these handles in use in another house I purchased them for my new doors. The carpenters were most impressed with the quality and they really set the doors off. Excellent value.
Rating: [5 of 5 Stars]
Displaying 1 to 6 (of 6 reviews)


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Thursday, August 30, 2012
Germans in their Underwear on Google Maps
AXE Anarchy is a body fragrance for men or women which, if the ads are to believed, has the effect of disintegrating the clothes worn by members of the opposite sex.
In Germany AXE Anarchy has released a Google Map called AXE Anarchy News. The map allows users to enter a location in Germany and view photos and reports of men and women nearby who have supposedly been so overcome by AXE Anarchy that they have had no choice but to strip down to their underwear.
Either that or this is a clever, exploitative piece of marketing by AXE.
Posted by Keir Clarke at 9:35 AM
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


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Chechen decries Boston attackBy John Zaremba
Boston Herald
May 19. 2013 2:10AM
MANCHESTER (MCT) - A Chechen rebel-turned-refugee - whose meetings with marathon bombing mastermind Tamerlan Tsarnaev drew FBI agents to search his home this week - wrapped himself in the U.S. flag Friday, saying he loves his adopted country and the deadly attacks left him with "shame and fear."
"I strongly condemn the horrible act at the Boston Marathon that claimed the lives of innocent and wounded many more," Musa Khadzhimuratov wrote in a statement he says he made "with a clear conscience and open heart."
"My deepest condolences to families who lost their loved ones, to the people of America, who gave me and my family shelter and safety. I am sincere in saying that America has become a new, beloved home for me and my family, and we appreciate the freedom and peace this country gives us.
"I am sure, the FBI knows by now that I have nothing to do with the terrible act in Boston," he wrote.
FBI agents first questioned him April 29, two weeks after the bombings. They searched his house Tuesday and have interviewed him repeatedly about his social meetings with Tsarnaev, most recently in March. Khadzhimuratov told Voice of America, a news agency run by the U.S. government, that agents asked him about Tsarnaev's bulk fireworks purchases at a store in Seabrook and his target-shooting trips to the Manchester Firing Line Range.
The Herald reported last month that Tsarnaev bought a pair of mortar kits at the store in February. Cliff Ellston, the range's compliance officer, declined to say whether Tsarnaev ever took target practice there.
Khadzhimuratov, whose name is spelled Khadjimuradov in the statement, is a former Chechen separatist fighter who was paralyzed in a shooting 12 years ago and came to the United States through a United Nations refugee program in 2004.
Khadzhimuratov said in his statement he "barely knew the Tsarnaev family ... we have never discussed political or religious issues, so I could never guess what ideas were in their minds."
"What they have done cannot be justified by any background, any political or religious idea," he said. "Their acts only brought shame and fear in our hearts."
Crime, law and justice Politics Public Safety Social issues War Top Section Stories


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Archive for July 2011
Mitch McConnell's Debt Ceiling Proposal is Probably Unconstitutional
0 Comments | Posted by gimme-five in Politics
Mitch McConnell has proposed a new way to deal with the debt ceiling issue:
Under Mr. McConnell's plan, Congress would pass legislation authorizing the president to request a total $2.5 trillion debt-limit increase in three stages—$700 billion by Aug. 2 followed later in the year by two $900 billion installments. The increases could take effect without congressional approval, but Congress could block it with a resolution of disapproval.
In general, under McConnell's plan: (1) the President is required to propose the debt-limit increase; (2) Congress can respond with a "resolution of disapproval," which requires a vote of a majority of each house; (3) the President can veto that resolution, which presumably he would; and (4) Congress can attempt to override that veto with a 2/3 supermajority in both houses. The purpose of the plan is that Republicans can place the blame (some individuals find raising the debt ceiling unpopular) for raising the debt ceiling on the President, because there is no chance that 2/3 of both houses would vote against raising the debt ceiling.
Such a plan is likely unconstitutional under the Supreme Court's decision in I.N.S. v. Chadha, 462 U.S. 919 (1983).
A. Chadha
In Chadha, Congress passed an Act which allowed the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) to suspend deportations of illegal aliens. However, the Act further specified that Congress could reject the INS's decision to suspend deportation, and that, to do so, either house of Congress merely needed to pass a resolution of disapproval, with a majority vote.
After Congress passed such a resolution of disapproval, the resolution, and Act, were challenged and eventually were reviewed by the Supreme Court. The Court held that the Act was unconstitutional.
The Court wrote that, when one of the three branches of the government acts, it must act according to the procedures set forth in the Constitution. Importantly, the Constitution sets forth a specific procedure Congress must follow when it takes a legislative act, meaning doing something like passing a bill, but not simply making internal Congressional rules.
Specifically, when taking a legislative act, except in limited circumstances spelled out in the Constitution (such as impeachment), the Constitution only allows Congress to act through "bicameralism" and "presentment." "Bicameralism" means passage by both houses, and "presentment" means presenting the passed bill to the President for signature or veto.
In Chadha's case, the Act allowed Congress to take a legislative act (passing a resolution of disapproval) without bicameralism or presentment, because either house could pass the resolution of disapproval, and the President didn't get to sign or veto the resolution. Thus, the Act was unconstitutional.
To dispel any argument that such a ruling would cause inefficiencies, the court explained, in one of my favorite Supreme Court lines of all time:
The choices we discern as having been made in the Constitutional Convention impose burdens on governmental processes that often seem clumsy, inefficient, even unworkable, but those hard choices were consciously made by men who had lived under a form of government that permitted arbitrary governmental acts to go unchecked. There is no support in the Constitution or decisions of this Court for the proposition that the cumbersomeness and delays often encountered in complying with explicit Constitutional standards may be avoided, either by the Congress or by the President. See Youngstown Sheet & Tube Co. v. Sawyer, 343 U.S. 579, 72 S.Ct. 863, 96 L.Ed. 1153 (1952). With all the obvious flaws of delay, untidiness, and potential for abuse, we have not yet found a better way to preserve freedom than by making the exercise of power subject to the carefully crafted restraints spelled out in the Constitution.
I.N.S. v. Chadha, 462 U.S. 919, 959 (1983).
B. McConnell's Plan
McConnell's plan is slightly different than that in Chadha. Unlike Chadha, it does not authorize a single house to take "legislative action." However, it does allow the President, as opposed to Congress, to take legislative action, and allows Congress to effectively have a veto power over the President. Thus, Chadha, as well as the Constitution, suggests that McConnell's plan is unconstitutional.
First, Article 1, Section 8, lists Congress' powers, and Clause 1 of that Section states that "[t]he Congress shall have Power . . . . to pay the Debts . . . ." It is Congress' role to "pay the Debts," which, throughout our nation's history, has meant that Congress proposes the plan to pay the debts, and the President signs or vetoes, and then Congress can override a veto. In other words, to "pay the Debts," bicameralism and presentment must be followed.
However, under McConnell's plan, the roles of Congress and the President are flipped. The President is the one who must propose "legislation," and then Congress effectively gets veto power over the proposal. To pass this "legislation" (i.e. raise the debt), Congress would not need a vote from both houses (bicameralism) – rather, they would only need one house NOT to pass a resolution of disapproval (because if both houses don't vote to disapprove, the debt increase occurs). If both houses passed such a resolution, and the President then vetoed it, then only one-third of one house could ensure that the debt ceiling would be passed, because the only way to stop the debt ceiling increase at that point would be to have 2/3 of each house vote against the debt ceiling increase (to override the President's "veto").
In other words, under McConnell's plan, there is no ordinary bicameralism and presentment process. Instead, Congress simply abdicates its power under the Constitution to "pay the Debts." Hence, McConnell's plan is unconstitutional.
C. Aside: Political Accountability
As an aside, one of the main checks against the power of Congress and the President is accountability to the people. The purpose of McConnell's plan is to avoid accountability, by making the President appear to be the only one responsible for debt ceiling increases, when, for all practical purposes, Congress forces the President to increase the debt ceiling. Such avoidance of accountability is not unconstitutional, per se, but certainly raises doubts as to its desirability.
Ethanol Subsidies to end by August?
0 Comments | Posted by gimme-five in Econ, Environment, Politics
The WSJ is reporting that ethanol subsidies may end by August. If so, that is fantastic news.
Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D, Calif.) said in a statement that she had reached an agreement with Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D, Minn.) and John Thune (R, S.D.) under which a 45-cent-a-gallon tax credit for blending ethanol into gasoline would expire on July 31. A 54-cent-a-gallon tax on imported ethanol would also expire at the end of the month.
Some $1.33 billion in savings would be used to reduce the $14.29 trillion U.S. debt. A third of the savings—an estimated $668 million—would be used to extend tax credits, such as those for alternative-fueling infrastructure like ethanol pipelines that some producers hope to build.


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Hello. Here is a bit of background:
I have been dealing with oversupply and fast letdown issues. My baby is now 11 weeks old. To help baby, I have:
Nursed only one side per feeding
Nursed in recline position
Nurse on cue of baby
Burp often
I was also told by a lactation consultant to pump out an ounce before feeding. Recently I decided this was making every thing worse and was just plain sick of it! So, I started block feeding every four hours vs. every two and put the pump away. My breasts responded within two days to the point where my supply became very low in the evening hours. Had to nurse both breasts so she could get enough. But, overall nursing was so much better. So I figured I should go back to two hours. However, supply seemed to spike again and baby was choking and not fully draining breast and spitting up a ton. So now I'm back to four hours. My question is how long should I continue the four hour block feeding? Is it dangerous and could I diminish my supply too much? Do I keep at it for a certain amount of time, indefinitely, etc?
Thank you!


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REDDING, Calif. — Tyler Maszk didn't know exactly what he wanted to do for a career until his senior year in high school, when he interned with a pest control adviser.
He found he enjoyed working outside and helping farmers and nursery operators discover what's ailing their crops.
Now he is one of about 10 students enrolled in a new program at Shasta College here, from which he'll earn his state certificate to become an adviser himself.
"What we do affects so many people," said Maszk, 19, a native of Woodland, Calif. "There's so much you need to know. I just like the fact that you're continually learning."
Maszk and his classmates are involved in California's latest push to replenish its corps of public and private pest control advisers, who recommend pest and disease management tools to agricultural and horticulture producers and can earn as much as $100,000 annually, according to a program news release.
The state has changed its requirement for a PCA certificate from a bachelor's degree to 42 units of college credit, enabling Shasta and other community colleges to offer programs that are much cheaper than university degrees.
The change comes as 40 percent of California's 4,000 PCAs are expected to retire by next year, creating a need for 1,600 new advisers to serve the state's 80,500 farms and ranches, the release explains.
This is the first semester that Shasta has begun offering the courses, said Leimone Waite, a horticulture and plant sciences instructor who's overseeing the program. The students must take 12 units of physical, biological and natural sciences, nine units of crop health, six units on pest management systems, six units on agricultural production systems, and another nine units of elective ag courses, according to the release.
Student Lindee Jones, 20, of Middletown, Calif., has two relatives who are PCAs and took part in a job shadow program. She likes being able to identify which pests are causing problems for plants, she said.
"I'm hoping to get an internship this summer," she said.
Pest control advisers are becoming crucial as global trade, drought and other factors bring more pest pressure to crops. This season, citrus growers in parts of Tulare and Kern counties are grappling with strict shipping requirements under a quarantine for the Asian citrus psyllid, which carries the deadly tree disease huanglongbing.
Last summer, tomato growers in the San Joaquin Valley suffered widespread crop damage from the beet curly top virus, which is carried from plant to plant by the beet leafhopper and stunts growth. Dry winters cause the leafhoppers' numbers to flourish, experts said.
Students seeking certification as PCAs come from different walks of life. Jillian Garcia, 33, of Cottonwood, Calif., went back to school after working as a hairstylist.
"I was just interest in horticulture … and was weighing out my options as to where in horticulture I wanted to work," she said. "I think this is my passion, but I'm just starting off."
California Association of Pest Control Advisers: https://capca.com