text:
Pacific Horticulture Society aim to inspire gardeners from British Columbia to Southern California in the art of gardening, and provide the horticultural knowledge to do so successfully. Pacific Horticulture began in 1968 when three San Francisco Bay Area societies banded together to publish a common journal. Later joined by groups in the Pacific Northwest, Los Angeles, and San Diego, we've become one of the most widely respected west coast gardening societies, best known for our quarterly publication Pacific Horticulture. Our six sponsoring societies are stepping stones along the Pacific coast, a shared path to friendship and the commitment to sustaining the quality of life in this region.
Company details
- Business Type:
- Professional association
- Industry Type:
- Agriculture - Horticulture
- Market Focus:
- Nationally (across the country)
About Us
Enjoy what we publish here, or become a member for more benefits. Join us directly whether you live in this region or simply share similar interests, and receive discounts on the first-class educational programs and tours we offer. Or, join through one of our sponsoring societies and enjoy a camaraderie centered around the geography and climate where you live.


text:
China, with its massive population, is a very interesting market for computer companies. Only 25% of China's population has access to the internet, so it's a massive growth market. The Chinese themselves realised this too, and in order to not be dependant on foreign powers, they decided to develop their own processor.
This would become the Loongson, currently in its second generation. The third generation, which will sport 4 cores and later 8 cores, will be released in 2010. Where it gets really interesting, however, is when you look at the software these Loongson chips are running. Since it's a MIPS chip, it can't run Windows
In other words, one of the biggest growth markets in the computing world might be conquered not by Intel and AMD's x86 running Windows, but by a 64bits MIPS chip running open source operating systems like Linux and the BSDs. The key here, as Wired notes, is that Loongson-based devices will be much cheaper for Chinese buyers than Western x86 machines.
Of course, the Loongson chip still has a long way to go before it can compete performance wise with Western products, but progress is being made, and China is determined. "The country is incredibly motivated for the project to succeed - it has become a cornerstone of the National High-Tech R&D Program embarked upon in 1986," Wired writes, "And we know that the Chinese are very good at leveraging economies of scale."
Combine all this with the fact that the third generation Loongson chip will include specific instructions to speed up x86-to-MIPS dynamic binary translation, and you can see that the Chinese are really taking this seriously.
Which is good news for all of us. x86 Needs competition.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
About Levindale
Application for Admission
Ask Leslie Simmons, R.N., F.A.C.H.E., Executive Vice President
Population Health
Contact Us
Eden Alternative
The Hackerman-Patz House
Insurance Plans Accepted
Resolving Concerns
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Levindale Board Members
Levindale Management Team
Mission, Values, Vision
Chaplaincy Services at Levindale
Comfort and Hospice Care
Consultation/Ancillary Services
Customer Service and Amenities
Eden Alternative and Neighborhood Model
Food Services at Levindale
Households at Levindale
Salon at Levindale
Therapeutic Recreation
Wound Care
Behavioral Health Unit
Comfort and Hospice Care
Consultation/Ancillary Services
Customer Service and Amenities
High Intensity Care Unit
Rehabilitation Services
Salon at Levindale
Therapeutic Recreation
Ventilator Services Program
Wound Care
Adult Day Services
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Consultation/Ancillary Services
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Outpatient Mental Health Clinic
Outpatient Rehabilitation
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LifeBridge Health Development
Contact Us
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Volunteering at Sinai Hospital
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Volunteering at Levindale
Application for Admission
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Insurance Plans Accepted
Israelson Boutique at Levindale
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Everyone has the capacity for creative expression. Therapeutic recreation is an integral part of life at Levindale Hebrew Geriatric Center and Hospital.
Recreational therapists lead programs and activities designed to meet the physical, cultural, social, cognitive, emotional and creative needs of long-term care residents and hospital patients. Therapists use social events, community outings and educational classes to achieve these goals and to enable individuals to establish healthy leisure lifestyles.
Therapeutic recreation specialists are nationally certified and hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree.
Music therapists use music to focus on the physical, psychological and social needs of people of all ages and people with disabilities. Music can reduce anxiety, spark memories of happy times, and stimulate the senses with rhythm and melodies.
Art therapists use art to enhance the lives of the elderly. It gives them a chance to express themselves creatively in an emotional environment.
Horticulture therapy helps residents — even those with physical and mental challenges — to relax while working with plants and flowers.
Mr. A shares why he loves the people and atmosphere at Levindale.
Levindale Hebrew Geriatric Center and Hospital
2434 W. Belvedere Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215
Contact Us: 410-601-2400
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Nondiscrimination Notice and Foreign Language Assistance


text:
Audio: Large Number of Invalid Entries for Speech Recognition
From DocWiki
Revision as of 18:46, 18 December 2009 by Docwikibot (Talk | contribs)
Large Number of Invalid Entries for Speech Recognition
|Problem Summary
|Large number of invalid entries for speech recognition
|Error Message
|Possible Cause
|Unified CM has an incorrectly configured service parameter.
|Recommended Action
|When the Speech recognition server recognizes voice input, it determines a confidence score that signifies how confident the server is that it correctly matched caller input. This confidence score is anywhere from 0 to 1.0 where 1.0 is 100% confidence that the grammar match is correct.
By default, Customer Voice Portal tells the Speech recognition server to throw an invalid entry error for all confidences below 0.7 or 70% for GetDigits and Menu and 0.5 or 50% for GetSpeech. For some applications, this value is too high and results in false invalid entry errors.
Consult the ASR vender to determine if the default confidence thresholds used by Customer Voice Portal (0.7 for GetDigits and Menu, 0.5 for GetSpeech) is incorrect for your applications. If the default values are indeed incorrect and need to be changed, the Customer Voice Portal templates needs to be adjusted. Contact Cisco TAC for instructions on template modification.
|Release 7.0(2)
|Associated CDETS #


text:
Mushkin 996996 8GB DDR3 2133MHz Review
Mushkin 996996 8GB 2133MHz Introduction:
At one point in the not too distant past, we here at OCC used the Mushkin Redline 996996 2x4GB set of modules as part of our test systems - until we moved on to the 993997 16GB kit that feature the same timings and module size but was equipped with the Ridgeback heat sink package rather than the Frostbyte heat sink package used on the 996996 modules. However, we really never took a look at the 996996 modules to see what they really were capable of, which sets the tone for this review. Mushkin's Enhanced strategy delivers products that offer improvements in timings, speed, and cooling to go along with the lifetime warranty.
The 996996 kit consists of a pair of 4GB modules that are rated at 2133MHz and designed to run using just 1.65v. Currently priced at $79.99, the 996996 Redline modules are offered at a modest price point. Having used this kit extensively for about two years I'll be curious to see how well the performance stands up when coupled with the latest Z87 platform from Intel.
Mushkin 996996 8GB 2133MHz Closer Look:
The packaging is your standard blister pack that showcases the modules from a single side of the package with the marketing card between the top and bottom of the container. From the card, the Mushkin 996996 modules are presented so you know just what you are getting for your hard earned dollars. The front side of the marketing card features the Mushkin logo at the top left and the greater than sign behind the modules, indicating that you get more with Mushkin. On the back side of the ad card are instructions that illustrate how to install the Redline 996996 kit properly as well as a sticker that has the SKU, timings, part number, and voltage needed.
What you notice about the Mushkin Redline modules is that they are well built and are equipped with Mushkin's time tested Frostbyte heat sink cooling technology. Of course it's red, since this set of modules is part of the Redline series of modules that are targeted at the high performance enthusiast and hardcore gamers that demand the best for their systems. This set of modules comes with a lifetime warranty in case things go a little south during an overclocking session. One side of the Frostbyte heat sink carries the Mushkin Enhanced and Redline logos while the other carries the product information/warranty sticker. This set of modules carries an XMP 1.3 profile that is set to run the modules at 9-11-10-28 using 1.65v to reach its rated speed of 2133MHz. Mushkin's Frostbyte heat sinks feature plenty of open space under the hod to allow airflow up and through the modules through convection to strip away the thermal load from the memory ICs and PCB.
The back of the package states in bold text "Get More". In the past this slogan has held true to form. I have no doubt that the modules will indeed offer excellent performance.


text:
LSU and football coach Les Miles agreed Wednesday to a new seven-year contract that will include a pay raise for the second-winningest coach in school history.
The details of the contract haven't been finalized and will be subject to approval by the LSU Board of Supervisors, but those issues appear to be mere formalities.
The announcement of the new deal came 24 hours after Internet reports that fellow Southeastern Conference member Arkansas had offered Miles a five-year, $27.5 million deal to become its new coach, an offer Miles disputed Wednesday.
Vice C, with no success,hancellor and Director of Athletics Joe Alleva said he had planned to give Miles, whose current salary averages about $3.75 million per year, a raise and extension before Arkansas entered the picture.
The Razorbacks announced Monday that interim coach John L. Smith would not return in the wake of a disappointing 4-8 season that concluded with a 20-13 loss Friday to the Tigers in Fayetteville, Ark.
"There has been a lot of speculation out there about other schools," Alleva said at an afternoon news conference at the Football Operations Center on campus. "I want to assure you — I know that you're not going to believe me — but I want to assure you that it really had nothing to do with that. It has been my plan all along to give coach a raise and an extension, and that's what we're doing."
The Tigers finished the regular season 10-2 and 6-2 in the SEC. They are ranked No. 7 in the BCS standings as they await a bowl invitation Sunday.
LSU has had three consecutive 10-win seasons and six of them during Miles' eight seasons.
The Tigers have the best record in the SEC during the past three seasons. They were a school-record 13-0 in the regular season in 2011 before losing to Alabama (21-0) in the BCS Championship game in January.
Miles guided LSU to the SEC and BCS titles in the 2007 season. In his first season in 2005, the Tigers reached the SEC title game, where they lost to Georgia (34-14).
"People talk about winning championships, and it's really not always about winning championships," Alleva said. "It's about being in the hunt to win championships, and coach (Miles) has shown that he's consistently in the hunt to win championships and educate our young men and make them good citizens, and that's really what this is all about."
LSU has had the SEC's second-highest graduation rate among football players each of the past two years.
On Tuesday, the news conference was originally scheduled as an opportunity for Miles to wrap up the regular season and address the Tigers' bowl prospects.
Then the Arkansas story broke.
LSU officials postponed the news conference from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. as Miles' agent, George Bass, and Alleva were finalizing the parameters of the new contract.
Miles called his talks with Arkansas Athletic Director Jeff Long, with whom Miles worked at the University of Michigan, "sincere," referring to Long as "a colleague of mine over years, a friend of mine over years."
"I have great respect for how he conducts business," Miles said of Long. "Our conversations were very preliminary and fell short of any major, major interest. I kind of recommended other candidates and spoke to him."
Miles said he did not speak with Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, a former Razorback football player, Arkansas supporter and former employer of Miles.
"I can tell you that I very much respect those Razorbacks and how they played in that last game," Miles said, "but I am an LSU head coach and will be an LSU head coach for as long as I can be."
This is the third time a major university has p since he came to LSU in 2005. Miles' alma mater, Michigan flirted with him twice, in 2007 and 2011.
"We've done some special things here," said Miles, whose 85-20 record at LSU is second only to Charles McClendon's (137-59-7 in 1962-79). "It's nice that the administration, Joe Alleva and Chancellor (William) Jenkins recognize that and say, 'Coach, we want you to be here.'
"Seven years is a long tenure. I'm fortunate to have that commitment from a great institution and great school as LSU."
Miles was vague when asked if raises and extensions for his coaching staff were part of his new deal.
"This had to do with a number of issues," he replied, "but not necessarily those but not excluding those as well."
Miles repeatedly declined to answer questions about the specifics of his talks with Arkansas.
"Some of those details I don't think it benefits anybody to go into," Miles said. "It's embarrassing to me to have to talk about money, so I don't. I can just tell you that I'm thankful that I'm fortunate to have an occupation that pays tremendous market value."
Miles, who grew up in Elyria, Ohio, said he and his family are "awful comfortable in southern Louisiana."
He and his wife, Kathy, have a 19-year-old daughter, Smacker, two teenage sons, Manny and Ben, and their youngest daughter, Macy Grace. They all have attended or are attending Baton Rouge schools.
"I've got teenage sons that love going off to school," Miles said. "I've got a 9-year-old daughter who's just as happy as she can be. I've got a 19-year-old daughter that there's one college team and there's a bunch of other teams. I think home is what we call this place."
Miles said he's looking forward to the college football playoffs that begins in 2014, believing LSU can remain a perennial championship contender.
"I think the school first and foremost is a tremendous academic institution that affords its students a quality education and gives them the opportunity to have a career not necessarily reflective of an athletic background," Miles said. "Then the opportunity to play and to participate in Tiger Stadium, represent this state, to be a part of this team.
"This team has the opportunity year in and year out to play for the (SEC) Western division (title), the conference championship and therefore the national championship as well. I would compare it with any school in the country and compare it favorably. ... What I want to do is win championships here and do it again and then do it again."
Miles, 59, said "it just doesn't seem likely" that any school will be able to lure him away from LSU, adding that he wasn't ready to say this was his last contract negotiation either.
"Hopefully," he said, "we'll look up seven years from now and I'll be trying to get another one of these extensions."


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This is an interesting project, I'm suprised they haven't been able to pre lease the office space yet, not a good sign IMO. It will be interesting to see the 3 new floors being put on top, yet another big crane in the city. The resturants will be cool.Piatts describe progress on transforming a former Downtown department store
Monday, May 07, 2007
By Mark Belko, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
From the rooftop of the former Lazarus-Macy's department store, Downtown Pittsburgh dances in a ballet of steel and brick, grittiness and elegance.
The shiny glass steeples of PPG Place mix with low-slung buildings on Fifth and Forbes avenues and old gems like the Commonwealth Building, Union National Bank and the Arrott Building.
Architecture shrouded at street level becomes more visible, from gargoyles to the crouching Atlas-like figures holding up one roof.
"When we came up here and looked at it, in two seconds we said we're buying this building," said Lucas Piatt, vice president of real estate for Washington County developer Millcraft Industries.
It's a perspective some people will soon be experiencing daily, in one form or another, as the Fifth and Forbes renaissance prepares to kick into full gear with the failed store's transformation.
Mr. Piatt and his father, Jack, Millcraft chairman, discussed the project and the progress to date during a tour last week with a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter and photographer.
In its first foray into Downtown, Millcraft purchased the Lazarus building from Federated Department Stores for $8.5 million in late 2005 with the intent of transforming it into housing, shops and office space, offering a ray of hope to the downtrodden Fifth and Forbes corridor.
Lately, the Piatts have found their biggest challenge is convincing people there is actually work going on in the building, renamed Piatt Place. But that shouldn't be a problem too much longer.
By the end of the summer, steel should be rising from the roof, forming the skeleton for 65 luxury condominiums that will add three floors to the four-story building.
To date, 19 of the 65 condos have been sold. One New York investor purchased three units for more than $1 million near the corner of Oliver Avenue and Smithfield Street.
Another buyer, who is moving from the suburbs, bought two units for $1 million on Fifth Avenue.
Lorrie Andria, the sales manager for the condos, which start at $320,000, doesn't hesitate to take prospective buyers to the roof.
"People are really wowed by the view," she said. "Each side of the building really has some unique characteristics. Each side has its own distinct selling features."
The most popular spot so far has been Fifth Avenue, where eight condos have been sold. Of the three floors, most buyers have gravitated to the seventh, or top floor, where nine units have been taken.
Little more than a year before the first condos are to be occupied, Mr. Piatt said he is comfortable with the pace of sales so far. Several blocks away, the Carlyle in the Union National Bank building has sold 21 of 60 condo units.
"It's pretty exciting for us that we're selling our vision, selling our dream and people are actually buying during pre-construction, which is a challenge, especially in a market where this is all new and fresh to everybody," Mr. Piatt said.
The three levels of condos will be situated around a center courtyard to be built on the current roof, now little more than a repository for bulky heating and cooling units.
Outside at street level, little has changed about the store, part of an expensive bid by former Mayor Tom Murphy to rejuvenate the Downtown retail corridor. But inside is quite a different story, particularly on the spacious first floor, only a few years ago a haven for shoes, jewelry, cosmetics, handbags and lingerie.
"Six years ago this would have been the women's department. Now you can order a martini," said Lucas Piatt, standing in what will be the bar area of the Capital Grille steak house at Fifth and Wood Street.
Studs have replaced sales in that corner, as more than 10,000 square feet of space is being partitioned for a main dining room and smaller private rooms. The outline of the arch-shaped kitchen is visible and coolers to age beef have been installed.
The restaurant is expected to open in July, providing the first taste of the building's transformation.
On the other side, at Wood and Oliver, the shell of McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurant is just beginning to form in anticipation of a late fall opening.
The two restaurants will serve as bookends for the building's street-level retail activity. The Piatts are negotiating with a financial services company to occupy the middle of the Wood Street block. They also hope to recruit a high-end fashion retailer to occupy one or two levels at the back end of the store, on Fifth Avenue near the old Revco building.
They have scrapped plans for a European-style gourmet market, moving that concept to the G.C. Murphy building, another old store Millcraft is converting into apartments and shops.
Lucas Piatt said the Murphy building is an "equal or better location" for the market, which will sell prepared foods, lunch meats, specialty breads, produce and other items.
Three floors of Lazarus-Macy's escalators in the heart of the store already have been removed, but the large circular openings that accommodated them remain.
A ceiling is being added on the first floor, but openings elsewhere will stay in place and become a shaft for a massive skylight to be built on the roof.
Andy Starnes, Post-Gazette
The living room and kitchen, above, and master bedroom, below, of the model condominium on display at Piatt Place. To date 19 of the 65 condos have been sold.
Click photos for larger image.
The Piatts like to refer to the Lazarus project as "Southpointe in a box," referring to their sprawling Interstate 79 development near Canonsburg that mixes housing, office space, recreation and retail.
"We're changing an elephant into a giraffe," Lucas Piatt said of the Piatt Place work. "We're taking something that was retail and changing it into a new species."
The three upper floors of the store are slated for office space, but so far there have been no takers.
Millcraft has been trying to lure either the Jones Day or Cohen & Grigsby law firm, or both, to the building, but neither has made a decision. Lucas Piatt said a couple of other firms also have expressed an interest.
"It's kind of a waiting game at this point," he said.
For now, the space on those top three floors will remain just as it is -- wide open with much of the original Lazarus-Macy's carpeting, flooring and fixtures still in place.
The idea, Lucas Piatt said, is to allow office tenants to reconfigure the space to suit their needs.
Echoes of the building's recent past are everywhere, from signs for "Customer Service," "Juniors" and "Bed in a Bag" to Polo Ralph Lauren posters and even some cabinets that were left behind.
"It's like they just got up and left," Jack Piatt said.
With much of the heavy construction still to come, the Piatts already have committed nearly $10 million to a project that is expected to run $65 million. It's little wonder they give some extra attention to the things they find as they rummage around the department store.
"We checked every drawer to see if there was any cash lying around," Jack Piatt said with a chuckle.


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Online Collections
Search Tips
The following must appear in ALL CAPS and with a space on each side.
AND—Indicates that the records found must contain all the words joined by the AND operator. For example, to find objects that contain the words wizard, oz, and movie, enter wizard AND oz AND movie.
OR—Records found must contain at least one of the words joined by OR. For example, to find objects that contain the word dog or the word puppy, enter dog OR puppy.
AND NOT—Indicates that the records found cannot contain the word that follows the term AND NOT. For example, to find objects that contain the word pets but not the word dogs, enter pets AND NOT dogs.
Strat-o-matic Baseball
Well before the year 1900, baseball was already known as the American National Game. Once a simple pastime for boys, it evolved in the nineteenth century into a commercialized spectator amusement operated by promoters and played by professionals within a nationwide, monopolistic structure called Organized Baseball. The game's history reflects much of the concurrent history of the United States, and American interest in the game has grown exponentially since its beginnings. During the rise of the manufacture of board and card games in the mid-nineteenth century, it was natural that producers made games that mimicked the play of the game that virtually every boy and man loved. Following the rise of star athletes in the early twentieth century, game manufacturers often used the star power of these athletes to help sell their playthings, whether baseball-style games or other toys. Baseball-style games as well as player-endorsed versions, both manual and electronic, continue to be popular through the present day.
- Manufacturer: Strat-o-matic Game Co., Inc.
- Material: printed paper | cardboard | rubber | plastic
- Origin: Glen Head, NY
- Style: sport
- Object ID: 109.17483
All artifact images, interpretive information, and website text © The Strong.


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Special dates/ occasions
What's on in Birmingham. Anniversaries, special events and more.
4-7 October
Bonfires & Fireworks
Merchant Taylors' Remembrance Concert
11 November
Search all events
Find out what else is on in Birmingham
Getting married in Birmingham
Digbeth First Friday
1st Friday of every month - Discover exhibitions, culture, events and lots more
Maps & Guides
Maps & Guides for your visit.Read More
Getting around
Getting around Birmingham couldn't be easier...Read More
Festivals & events
Take a look at what's on now and coming up here...Read More
RT @custardfactory: Who loves the design for the Curzon Street Station?! We think it's fab.@HS2ltd will be in our reception today between…
RT @DigbethDiner: The game has been changed. You asked for it, so here it is. The very first 'Dogbeth Dining Club'. Sunday, 28th Octobe…
Sporting highlights
Cage Warriors CW98
20 October
All sporting events
There's always something, or someone, to cheer for hereRead More
Art Galleries
Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive.Read More
Stage & Screen
From touring West End shows to showcasing local talent.Read More
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
A vibrant museum in the heart of the city with over 40 galleries.Read More
See More, Feel More
Come, stay and soak up the culture in one of Europe's most vibrant cities.Read More
Plan the perfect shopping trip with full store, centre and brand directories.Read More
Shopping centres
From the world-famous, 21st Century Bullring to the Victorian elegance of the Great Western Arcade.Read More
Vibrant streets
Linking the centres are Birmingham's bustling shopping streets, packed with major brands and boutique independents.Read More
Don't miss Birmingham's amazing markets – whether it's the 850-year old Bullring markets or the...Read More
Jewellery Quarter
Home to more diamond rings, finishing touches and tokens of love than anywhere else in...Read More
Getting Married in Birmingham
We have everything covered from the rings right up to the venue itself.Read More


text:
Comcast Paying Minority Rights Groups To Parrot Merger Support
from the repeat-after-me-if-you'd-like-to-keep-your-funding dept
One specifically important cornerstone of these lobbying efforts involves paying minority advocacy groups to parrot your positions, given lobbyists appear to believe that these groups in particular provide an important additional layer of artificial, grass roots legitimacy to your entirely-artificial support base. AT&T's T-Mobile deal, for example, received ample praise from groups like the The Hispanic Institute, the Latino Coalition, and the Minority Media and Telecommunications Council, all of which took funding from AT&T while insisting that less competition would bring great things to American consumers.
Comcast's lobbying approach for the Time Warner Cable merger isn't all that different. The New York Times notes that the company is paying groups like The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to sing the praises of Comcast's latest effort to get more powerful:
"...what the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce did not mention in its statement praising the transaction was that it had collected at least $320,000 over the last five years from Comcast's charitable foundation, which is run in part by David L. Cohen, the Comcast executive who oversees the corporation's government affairs operations...And (top Comcast lobbyist David) Cohen adamantly rejected any suggestion that the corporation's history of supporting nonprofit groups and charities, particularly groups that serve African-Americans, Latinos and Asians, was motivated by a desire to build political allies."The usual defense from companies is that this is just us being altruistic, even though the company involved usually sends these organizations an e-mail with a list of talking points they'd like to see parroted. Losing funding if you don't play along is usually strongly implied:
"But even one of Comcast's own lobbyists said in an interview that the relationship with some groups had a transactional flavor. "If you have a company like Comcast that has been with them for a long time and continues to support them, they will go to bat for them," the contract lobbyist for Comcast said, asking that he not be named because he was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly, "even if it means they have become pawns."The sad part is that these organizations obviously wind up rooting against their constituents' own best self-interests in the quest for continued funding. An AT&T acquisition of T-Mobile, for example, would have killed off T-Mobile and driven prices up, neither of which would have helped minorities (or anybody else). While the Comcast deal is different because Time Warner Cable and Comcast don't compete, the deal could still result in greater vertical integration, a tougher time for small and minority-owned media businesses, and the imposition of data caps and broadband overages across a broader overall market area (aka: higher prices).
Combine this sound wall of artificial support with the oodles of money Comcast is throwing at Congress, The President, and the FCC, and it starts to get easier and easier to buy approval for bad ideas. That's before you even point out that former FCC boss Michael Powell now runs the NCTA, the cable industry's biggest lobbying organization, Former FCC Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker now lobbies for Comcast, or DOJ Antitrust Division director William J. Baer represented NBCUniversal during Comcast's acquisition. Did I mention Comcast's David Cohen is a big Obama fundraiser?
While this greasy wheeling might make the deal get approved, it doesn't change the truth that your argument or idea isn't very good if you have to pay people to support it.


text:
NEW YORK (AP) — John Legend is officially off the market.
The R&B crooner's representative says Legend married model Chrissy Teigen on Saturday at the Villa Pizzo in Lake Como, Italy.
Legend, 34, and Teigen, 27, were engaged in 2011.
Legend has won nine Grammy Awards. He released his fourth solo album, "Love In the Future," last week.
Teigen has modeled for Sports Illustrated and is the host of the Vh1 reality competition show, "Model Employee." She also has a food blog.
Legend will launch a U.S. tour next month.


text:
Treasures of the Earth – Metal
Festival Theme 2017: Anthropocene – Welcome to the Human Age
Treasures of the Earth – Metal
Title: Treasures of the Earth – Metal
Director: Doug Hamilton; Terri Randall; Kate Dart - Series Director
Produced by: A NOVA Production co-produced by Pioneer Film and Television Productions Limited with China International TV Corporation with CCTV-10 and PAAN Media Holdings Co., Limited, with KBS Korea in association with PBSd, for WGBH and KBS; A NOVA Production by Hamilton Land and Cattle, Inc. for WGBH Boston; A NOVA Production by Terri Randall Productions for WGBH Boston.
Running Time: 58:16 Minutes
Country: United States of America
Year: 2016
Age Guideline:
Secondary School (12 - 16)
Category: Ecology & Environment
Screened In: The Philippines, Gulf, Sudan, Egypt, Jordan, Palestine, Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Namibia, Mali, Rwanda, South Africa, Sri Lanka, India
The enduring luster of gold, the conductivity of copper, the strength of steel—the special properties of metals have reshaped societies and defined eras; they have such an important role in human history that entire ages have been named after them. But what gives metals their astounding characteristics? And how have metals enabled our modern hi-tech world? Explore the science of metals with chemists and engineers as they literally test the mettle of metals and investigate how these remarkable materials have ushered humanity from the Stone Age to the stars.


text:
Posted 29 April 2014. PMN Crop News.
DuPont Pioneer Introduces New Sunflower Product for 2014
Hybrid adapted to the Dakotas
Source: DuPont Pioneer Press Release. www.pioneer.com
Des Moines, Iowa (April 25, 2014)--Sunflower growers have a new planting option this spring as DuPont Pioneer introduces Pioneer® brand hybrid P64ME01. This sunflower is a mid-oleic, mid-maturity, disease-tolerant hybrid with outstanding yield potential bred for the NuSun® oil market.
Pioneer hybrid P64ME01 is a sunflower hybrid with the DuPont™ ExpressSun® trait for tolerance to DuPont EXPRESS® herbicide with TotalSol® soluble granules.
Pioneer P64ME01 joins a lineup of high-oleic and mid-oleic oil profile sunflowers. The NuSun and ExpressSun traits were developed using traditional plant-breeding methods, and therefore these sunflowers are conventional non-GMO varieties.
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News Second Trailer for Pokémon: Kyurem Vs. Seikenshi Keldeo Film Posted
posted on 2012-05-01 21:47 EDT by Ko Ransom
132-second trailer posted for July 14 Pokémon feature and short
The official website for the Pokémon anime films began streaming the second trailer for the Gekijōban Pocket Monster Best Wishes! Kyurem Vs Seikenshi Keldeo (Pokémon: Black & White the Movie - Kyurem Vs. the Sacred Sword Master Keldeo) film on Thursday. The film will feature the new legendary Pokémon, Keldeo. The film will open on July 14 with Meloetta to Kirakira Recital (Meloetta and the Sparkling Recital), the first 2D short to be paired with a Pokémon feature in nine years. The first trailer for the film was posted earlier this year.
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My Brother's Husband GN 2
Yaichi realizes just how much his brother's husband has become part of the family in this touching finale to Gengoroh Tagame's family manga. ― It is something of a shock to realize that the entirety of My Brother's Husband, of which this is the final omnibus volume, takes place over only three weeks. That's probably because they are such full weeks for the three main characters of Gengoroh Tagame's f...
Interview: Sohei Niikawa, Writer and Producer of Disgaea
The producer and writer behind the iconic strategy RPG series Disgaea reflects on 15 years of success, and what it takes to keep an aging franchise relevant. ― We may be a few years off from a Disgaea 6, but the first Disgaea game is making its way to Nintendo Switch and Playstation 4 with all-new HD graphics in the form of Disgaea Complete. The original game released on the Playstation 2 in 2003, bu...
Manga Answerman - What Makes A Great English Translation?
Do you prefer an extremely literal translation to a more "lyrical" one? What really goes in to a truly great Japanese-to-English manga translation? Deb gets into it. ― This is more of a personal question, but what do you prefer: a "lyrical", adaptive translation, or a no-frills one that goes for the very direct approach? Hm. That's an interesting question. Let me preface my response with a few cavea...
Anime Spotlight - Jojo's Bizarre Adventure Golden Wind
Giorno Giovanna, son of Dio who dreams of being a gangster, causes trouble alongside his gang "Passione" in the backstreets of Naples, Italy and ends up being targeted... ― Jojo's Bizarre Adventure Golden Wind Official Website: http://jojo-animation.com/ Story Characters Cast & Staff Gallery Premieres at 1:05AM of October 6, 2018 (JST) Key Staff Executive Director: Naokatsu Tsuda ("Inu X Boku Secret...
This Week in Anime - Whatever Happened to FLCL Alternative?
FLCL Alternative came and went without much fanfare after the divisive results of FLCL Progressive. This week, Andy and Steve look back on what new things this conclusion to the FLCL trilogy brought to the table. ― FLCL Alternative came and went without much fanfare after the divisive results of FLCL Progressive. This week, Andy and Steve look back on what new things this conclusion to the FLCL tril...
This Week in Games - SoulCalibur VI
Welcome back to the stage of history! It's been six years since the last Soul Calibur game - does the new one hold up? PLUS: all of this week's big news and new releases! ― The thing about writing a weekly column is that you can plan a bunch of stuff to write about far in advance… only to have all of your planning get completely scuttled by news that drops. I mean, I was going to publish my follow-up...
Anime Spotlight - Ingress
While investigating an explosion at a laboratory studying an unknown substance, Makoto sees a mysterious memory from Sarah's ring, the sole survivor of the accident. ― Ingress Official Website: http://ingressanime.com/ Introduction Story Characters Cast & Staff Gallery Premieres at 0:55 of October 18, 2018. Key Staff Director: Yūhei Sakuragi (The Relative Worlds) ↑ Top Introduction At the CERN facil...
Interview: The Crew of Cowboy Bebop, 20 Years Later
Character designer Toshihiro Kawamoto, mechanical designer Kimitoshi Yamane and screenwriters Dai Sato and Keiko Nobumoto share some stories from their days working on what would become one of the most beloved and influential anime series of all time, 20 years later. ― Scriptwriters Keiko Nobumoto and Dai Sato, character designer Toshihiro Kawamoto, mechanical designer Kimitoshi Yamane all banded tog...
Answerman - Why Do Anime Students Always Sit In The Same Seat?
Anime protagonists in high school always seem to take the same seat - second to the back, next to the window. What makes that spot so special? Justin gets into it. ― Darrel asked: Why are anime characters always sitting in the same exact spot in classrooms? Is it because it is easier to draw them isolated? Ah yes, that seat in the back next to the window. That is THE hot-spot in a surprising number ...
Tokyo Ghoul:re GNs 5-7
Tokyo Ghoul:re is not as compelling as its predecessor, but by these volumes, it seems to be getting back on track with a more detailed focus on character development. ― Tokyo Ghoul:re is at its best when it's exploring the inner struggles of Ken Kaneki-turned-Haise Sasaki. That means that of these three volumes, book seven is the strongest, playing into that theme and using elements of both series o...
New York Comic-Con 2018 Interview: Tony Valente, Creator of Radiant
Radiant was the first French manga to be published in Japan, and now it's the first French manga to have a TV adaptation! Creator Tony Valente goes in-depth on his career, the world he's created, and what it's like to experience this kind of success. ― As the current anime adaptation of Tony Valente's French manga, Radiant, plays on the airwaves in Japan, New York Comic Con attendees got a first look...
The Fall 2018 Anime Preview Guide
The Fall 2018 Anime Season has begun! Check back every day for new reviews of this fall's new anime:
Now Available: Fall 2018 Shorts Featuring Skull-Face Bookseller Honda-san - Senran Kagura Shinovi Master - A Certain Magical Index III - As Miss Beelzebub likes. - Karakuri Circus - Merc StoriA - My Sister, My Writer - Tokyo Ghoul:re season 2 - Golden Kamuy season 2 - Anima Yell! - Ulysses: Jeanne d'Arc and the Alchemist Knight - and much more!
Now Available: Fall 2018 Shorts Featuring Skull-Face Bookseller Honda-san - Senran Kagura Shinovi Master - A Certain Magical Index III - As Miss Beelzebub likes. - Karakuri Circus - Merc StoriA - My Sister, My Writer - Tokyo Ghoul:re season 2 - Golden Kamuy season 2 - Anima Yell! - Ulysses: Jeanne d'Arc and the Alchemist Knight - and much more!
This Week in Anime - Is Lost Song Worth Watching?
J-pop songstress Konomi Suzuki made her acting debut in Netflix's sweeping musical fantasy, Lost Song. Nick and Micchy find out if there's noteworthy underneath the surprisingly bland fluff on this show's surface. ― J-pop songstress Konomi Suzuki made her acting debut in Netflix's sweeping musical fantasy, Lost Song. This week, Nick and Micchy find out if there's noteworthy underneath the surprising...
Get 40% Off Your Tickets to Animation is Film Festival!
GKIDS is giving a ticket discount to all ANN readers attending the Animation is Film Festival this weekend! ― Calling All West Coast Anime Fans! The Animation Is Film Festival returns for its second year in Los Angeles, CA with an incredible slate of anime events and premieres. This year's line-up features the premiere of Mirai with director Mamoru Hosoda in person for Q&As as well as a four-film Mam...
Ghibli Fest 2018 - Spirited Away Ticket Giveaway!
Magic and fantasy reign once again as Spirited Away returns to theaters. As a special October treat, GKIDS is giving away FREE TICKETS to ANN readers! ― This month, GKIDS is bringing back the Studio Ghibli animated classic Spirited Away to theaters on Oct. 28, 29 & 30. They are giving away two free tickets each to five lucky ANN readers! About the Movie Winner of the Academy Award® for Best Animated...


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Experience the best of Hungary, Italy and the Balkans on a small group adventure.
Experience the many charms of eastern Europe and Italy – from the hearty cuisine of Hungary to the glamorous beaches of Split and stunning alpine scenery of Slovenia – on this unforgettable small group adventure. Be seduced by Belgrade's Bohemian vibe, see why Montenegro's emerging as Europe's next tourism hotspot, feel the press of history on a stroll through Split's old town and fall head over hells for ever-seductive Venice. Whether you're heading to this part of the world for your first time or tenth, eastern Europe never fails to enamour.
Learn about the dark history and rebuilding of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Sarajevo, then visit Mostar's famous Old Bridge and witness a traditional bridge jumper hurl themselves into the icy waters below.
Immerse yourself in the edgy street scene of Belgrade's Bohemian Quarter, then dance the night away in one of Europe's nightlife hotspots.
Admire the restored architecture of World Heritage-listed Kotor, Montenegro, on a climb along the ancient city walls
Split is a haven of relaxation and culture. Unwind with a walk along the waterfront promenade and admire the impressive ruins of Diocletian's Palace.
Stroll through Plitvice Lakes National Park, marvelling at luminous lakes and waterfalls that appear to have been sketched by an artist.
Croatia's amazing array of food specialities mix multiple European influences, and Zagreb harnesses the best of them. Feast on Mediterranean fresh seafood, Italian-influenced antipasti and the crunchy, doughy dessert of fritule.
The floating city of Venice is one place you'll be happy to get lost in. The city's maze of alleyways, canals and lagoon islands lead to over 130 churches, all with their own distinct character.
As there are potholes and cobblestones in many European cities, it's recommended that you leave any wheelie bags/cases at home and bring a backpack instead.
Summer temperatures can be extreme in many of the regions visited (over 40°C/104°F), which can be uncomfortable. It's important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.
As accommodation on this trip is multi-share, single travellers will share a room with other travellers of the same sex. This trip is a great opportunity to get to know other like-minded people, so embrace it while you can. Also, hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together/apart. Rooms can be rather small, especially compared to American or Australian standards, and in most cases bathroom facilities will be shared rather than en-suite. Please note that a single supplement is not available on this trip.
As this is a combination of 2 trips, your leader and the composition of your group may change in Dubrovnik.
This itinerary is valid for departures from 01 January 2019 to 31 December 2019. View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2018 - 23 October 2018
Trip search is unavailable.
There are currently no scheduled departures on our Budapest to Venice trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.
A single supplement is not available on this trip.
Our Budapest to Venice trips score an average of 5 out of 5 based on 2 reviews in the last year.
Love traveling with Intrepid as they help me to get a taste for the places I visit in a short succinct way.
Review submitted 13 Oct 2018
Loved this trip. It had a great mix of history and scenery along with some fascinating cities.
Review submitted 27 Jun 2018


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Airport and Amtrak Station - BayRunner Shuttle provides daily, scheduled, high quality transport services for airline passengers traveling from the Eastern Shore and Western Shore of Maryland to Baltimore-Washington International Airport. Click here for information about B.W.I. Airport
Relax in comfort on one of our Chevrolet G3500 or Chevrolet Suburban vans. Let our professional drivers take the hassle out of getting to the airport, parking your car, and getting to the front door. We drop you off in front of your airline or at the Amtrak Station. What's more, there is free parking at most of our pick-up locations, so you can keep your wallet in your pocket upon return (Remember those $70-100 parking charges? :(). Reservations in advance are recommended in order to insure your first choice of shuttle time.
Intercity Bus Service - BayRunner now provides shuttle bus service from most of our departure points on the Eastern Shore, and all points on the Western Shore. These scheduled shuttles operate at the same time as the airport shuttles, but continue to and start at the Greyhound Bus station in Downtown Baltimore. Reservations are recommended but not required. Handicap accessible vehicles are available upon 48 hour prior notice. To access schedules, click below on "Schedules and Rates." To view services offered by Greyhound to points beyond Baltimore, click here
Serving Cambridge, Salisbury, Easton, Kent Island, Ocean Pines and Ocean City >> Click here to learn more
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Just hours ago AMD announced the availability of three new AMD Phenom X3 triple-core processors that feature the latest B3 stepping. AMD first announced triple-core processors back in September 2007, but only just recently launched the AMD Phenom X3 8000 series last month. As the world's only triple-core x86 desktop processor, the Phenom X3 processors make for a very interesting product, but enthusiasts and consumers that follow processor launches had some concerns about the new triple-core processors. AMD states that the triple-core processors integrate three computational cores on a single die of silicon, but in reality it is a quad-core processor with one of the cores disabled. The initial batch of triple-core processors also suffered from the same TLB erratum that was found on the quad-cores since they made from the same B2 die steppings. When AMD announced the 50-series of quad-core processors they brought hope to AMD fans around the world as the TLB erratum was fixed thanks to a new and improved B3 stepping. AMD has finally brought the 'B3′ stepping to the triple-cores and has announced three new AMD Phenom X3 triple-core processors that make up the new '50-series'. Without further ado here are the new AMD Phenom X3 processors and their price points.
As you can see triple-core pricing starts at $145 for the 2.1GHz Phenom X3 8450 to $195 for the top end 2.4GHz Phenom X3 8750 triple-core processor. While these prices are very competitive, they are really close to that of the AMD Phenom X4 series. For example the AMD Phenom X4 9750 Quad-Core Processor is currently $214.99 shipped on our shopping service. Is it worth the extra $20 to get a quad-core or should one save the cash and go triple-core? You also have the2.2GHz Phenom X4 9550 for the same exact price of $195 plus shipping. If that question isn't tough keep in mind that Intel just cut prices this week, so now you have the 3GHz Intel E6850 for $183 and the 2.4GHz Intel Q6600 for $224.
The processor we will be looking at today is the AMD Phenom X3 8750 triple-core processor. The AMD Phenom X3 8750 is a 2.4GHz processor manufactured using AMD's 65nm Silicon on Insulator process technology. The chip has a Max TDP of 95W and has official support for a 1.8GHz memory controller and HT 3.0 frequency with Dual Dynamic Power Management technology. AMD informed Legit Reviews that they do have higher clock frequencies on the road map later this year as well as 65W Phenom X3 triple-core processors. The 65W triple-core processors will be aimed at HTPC users and those looking to build energy efficient computers. AMD will continue to expand and introduce new Phenom X3 processors in the months ahead, so expect to see and hear more about them!
Taking a look at CPU-Z 1.44.2 we can see the details our AMD Phenom X3 8750 triple-core processor is being shown correctly!
The cache tab of CPU-Z 1.44.2 shows the Phenom X3 8750 has 3.5MB of combined L2 and L3 cache. Notice that each core has its own L2 cache, but shares the 2MB of L3 cache.
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Just In Case you were wondering how Andy Roddick is feeling after his heart-wrenching loss to Mr. 15-Slams himself:
Oh, and Just In Case you missed the link that Paddy put up the other day on 'british bruises', here's a sneak peek. Click on the photo to get more of a glimpse of Team Murray.
(screengrabs from twitter.com and andymurray.com, respectively)


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NEW YORK (AP) — A New York City zoo is celebrating the arrivals of two baby western lowland gorillas.
They're the first gorillas born at the Wildlife Conservation Society's Bronx Zoo since 2006.
Zoo officials said Thursday the babies' genders aren't yet known.
A gorilla named Julia gave birth on March 10. Another named Tuti had her baby on April 17.
Newborns weigh about 4 to 5 pounds. Females could grow up to weigh 250 pounds, males about 450 pounds.
Gorilla infants are held by their mothers for the first four months of their lives.
Zoo visitors can see the babies this spring if conditions such as the weather and temperature are right.


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This pickup is sized perfectly for replacement of "Carey Nordstrand Designed" pickups that are found on some Ibanez basses.
These pickups do not include a plastic cover. You will need to use the original pickup cover that is found on the bass.
Some of the Ibanez pickup covers are spot-glued on, but they are removable for replacement.


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So much in the Covey household is familiar: two dogs, wedding photos on display and baseball-playing twins, 9, gyrating with an abundance of energy.
The boys, Austin and Dakota, step on each other's sentences explaining how once they were surprised with a visit to Legoland – but this year they know all about their Grand Canyon vacation.
They rattle off an impressive list of chores: making their beds, clearing their dishes, washing their laundry.
Other aspects are less familiar.
They share two photo books.
One chronicles the day of their adoption in 2011, when each boy got to choose a toy in the courtroom. Austin runs to get his stuffed seal and Dakota shows off the wings on his dragon.
The other shows everyone on their first day together in 2008, and then on that same spot every year:
Two happy boys and their proud fathers.
Everything speaks to family. And the Coveys say that just because theirs includes two dads, their family fundamentals are like any other.
The men met 17 years ago at Fullerton College, where they were involved in theater.
"Kevin was funny, quirky and he made me laugh," recalls Joseph Covey, 40.
When they bought a home together in Brea, their housewarming doubled as an engagement party. In 2000 they entered a domestic partnership; the next year they held a commitment ceremony.
No night-clubbing party animals here – they wanted a traditional relationship.
"I always wanted what my parents had," Kevin Covey, 37, said.
As a wedding planner, lovebirds are his business.
"I would see people ready to start a family. … It was depressing to think I didn't have the same rights."
In 2008, when the door opened to same-sex marriages, they married in July, before the door slammed shut in September. Joseph Covey sprinkles the word "husband" into conversation the way you salt your fries – liberally and often. He savors the taste.
Now the Supreme Court has found part of the federal Defense of Marriage Act unconstitutional. For federal purposes same-sex marriages are equal, and California allows them.
For them, the decision is "huge."
It affords them the legal rights accorded the "next of kin," and it will impact their Social Security benefits. Filing income taxes jointly will be far easier than trying to explain how they share a house and family.
In 2008, a Gallup poll indicated 53 percent being against same-sex marriage. In May, 53 percent of respondents were supportive. Times have changed, but for the Coveys it has been a long journey.
Kevin Covey grew up in Anaheim, where he was teased as a child. He just wanted to be like everybody else. His parents thought he would outgrow it; he did not tell them otherwise until college.
Joseph Covey, an entertainment manager for Disneyland, says he always knew he was different because he didn't "fit in."
"My brothers were into sports; I put on puppet shows. … It was something you didn't talk about."
His Latino family was conservative and religious. If their son was gay, then his parents had done something wrong. Only his sister attended their commitment ceremony, and he did not speak to his parents for three years afterward.
When they married, however, Covey's parents, brothers and grandmother attended.
"It was an amazing feeling that my parents walked me down the aisle."
Of course, wanting to be a family like everyone else doesn't make you the same as everyone else.
Proposition 8, a measure to constitutionally prevent same-sex marriage in California, was on the ballot in 2008. One Sunday at church with Covey's family, the church was preaching that everyone should support Prop. 8. Kevin Covey recalls:
"We are listening to them say that we are terrible people for destroying marriage."
Today, they are comfortable as members of Brea Congregational Church.
The Coveys knew they wanted children and adopted through foster parenting. Two dads, they say, has never been an issue to their sons.
"Considering their earlier lives, that was the least of their concerns," Covey notes.
"We do the mothering and the fathering," Joseph Covey adds. "It's just been natural for them."
They have, however, had frank conversations with their sons.
Kevin Covey explains: "If they are old enough to probe, they are old enough to get the answers."
At Mariposa Elementary School, where they help in the classroom, these parents say their diversity is accepted and supported.
"There's no hiding us," Covey laughs. "We've changed a lot of people's perspectives."
Still, there is a ways to go.
Joseph Covey, the more activist of the two, questions why Harvey Milk is not among the great Americans studied at school. He also knows that kids on the playground level an insult when they say, "That's so gay!"
"We need to teach at a young age that it's not OK to say that."
The boys seem self-confident about their family.
Once Austin wanted to take their marriage license to school to prove that his fathers are married. When he was child of the day, he diagramed two fathers on the family chart.
"I speak up for my family. … I have two Dads, and that's cool."
The boys expressed their thoughts in writing, and Austin's comments became part of an amicus brief read by the Supreme Court justices considering DOMA.
Austin wrote: "When people are in love, there should be nothing holding them back. … Marriage is about family, and my Dads take the best care of me and my brother."
These are not marching, parading kinds of guys, but they realize their sexuality will always be an issue.
"When we're going down the street, I don't hold Joseph's hand; a good portion of people aren't comfortable with it," Kevin Covey says. "That takes a toll on you."
The definition of family is changing: Not all children have two parents, and the Pew Research Center says 8 percent of U.S. households are now headed by a single father.
The Coveys note that many families don't fit into the traditional model.
"We are the 'Modern Family,'" Kevin Covey observes, referencing the TV show.
If you want to change things, they explain, you have to speak out – shift the dialogue from "protecting" families to creating acceptance of different families.
"My purpose was to adopt a child and help that child flourish in this world," Joseph Covey notes. "I'm a family man. I teach my children values."
If you think of families as a series of Venn diagrams, common ground is found where the circles overlap.
Contact the writer: email@example.com


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We've all seen Brazilian beauty Alessandra Ambrosio strut down the runway in countless fashion shows, but the supermodel is proving she can do more than look gorgeous in clothes - she can design them too! See pics of ále by Alessandra, available today on shopplanetblue.com, and find out the inspiration behind the boho-chic clothing line, plus an exclusive on her next big project!
With additional reporting by Dan Koday
Tell us a little bit about the new collection and who it's for.
This is my first collection called ále by Alessandra, which I have been working on for a year and a half. It's super sexy, you know, for all the Latinas out there like me.
Did you create the line with yourself in mind?
Yes. I wanted it to look sexy without going too far because I have to feel comfortable. You know, I'm a mom too. So I want to look sensual and young but it has a limit. Everything has a limit where it can become a little vulgar.
What's the most versatile piece in the collection?
With this little black dress, you can style it any way you want. You can put high heels on or you can do flats and just go with necklaces or a cuff. Whatever you feel like, you know, it's not the basic black dress, but it's a beautiful one.
What was your biggest concern when creating the collection?
When I was creating the collection, my biggest concern was the fabric. But I knew I was working with Planet Blue, and they only work with good fabric. I knew it was going to be a no-brainer to have great fabric in the collection.
What are some of your favorite pieces in the collection?
The jumpsuits are easy beautiful, pieces. To me, they're inspired by all those actresses in the '70s like Bridgitte Bardot.
You've obviously traveled all over the world and you're Brazilian but you live in the U.S.. So where do you think women have the best style? Is it in Brazil? Is it in the U.S.?
Everywhere. It's really your personality. Obviously, I've always been inspired [by] the girls in Malibu. I think they have great style. I always see beautiful girls that are so sexy, and they're showing off their skin. Brazil – oh my God, my friends, you know they're not models or anything, but they have amazing, incredible style. But I just feel like there's something interesting [everywhere]. It really just depends on your personality to me.
We can smell the waves! Speaking of smells, have you thought of a fragrance that finishes off the clothes for you?
I'll come up with that one day. Don't worry! [Laughs]
So you confirm you're looking to do a perfume line?
Yes, because I'm working on a bunch of different categories for the brand. Obviously, I wanted to start with fashion – with clothes, which is my passion. But I'll tell you the fragrance will come later. I have it in mind with a lot of ideas!


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Tucker finished with 21 points. He started the day one point shy of Michael Finley's record -- and beat it on his first shot attempt about two minutes into the game.
The victory sets up a championship matchup with Number One Ohio State, which beat Purdue 63-52 behind a superb effort from freshman center Greg Oden.
Tucker hit his first four shots and finished ten-of-17. Teammate Kammron Taylor added 16 points.
Warren Carter scored 14 for Illinois, which had won 18 straight at the United Center.


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Maryon Stewart is a renowned healthcare expert specialising in PMS, Menopause and a pioneer in the field of non-drug medicine. Using her years of knowledge and expertise, she coaches women in understanding the information, tools and techniques needed to get well, to the point that they are able to be completely symptom-free.
Since setting up the The Women's Nutritional Advisory Service, and subsequently, Natural Health Advisory Service, she has helped tens of thousands of women all around the world improve their health and well-being.


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Lawrence Kasdan accepts the Final Draft Hall of Fame award for his career in screenwriting on Thursday in Beverly Hills. Keep clicking for a look at his prolific career as a writer and director. (Jeff Drongowski / Drongo Photo)Link
Lawrence Kasdan was recruited by George Lucas to pen 1980's "The Empire Strikes Back" -- the second film in the original "Star Wars" trilogy. The film is widely considered the best in the "Star Wars" franchise. (Lucasfilm)Link
Steven Spielberg and George Lucas recruited Kasdan to write the screenplay for "Raiders of the Lost Ark." The film was a critical and box-office hit. (Lucasfilm)Link
Kasdan made his directorial debut in 1981 with the steamy noir film "Body Heat."(Warner Bros.)Link
Kasdan returned to the Star Wars universe to write 1983's "Return of the Jedi." (Lucasfilm)Link
The 1983 drama "The Big Chill" -- about a group of baby boomers who reunite after their friend's suicide -- earned Kasdan an Oscar nomination for writing. Kasdan also directed the film. (Columbia Pictures)Link
Kasdan wrote and directed 1985's "Silverado," about a band of misfit cowboys. (Columbia Pictures)Link
Lawrence Kasdan and his son Jon Kasdan on the set of "Silverado." (Columbia Pictures)Link
Kasdan earned two more Academy Award nominations for the 1988 drama "The Accidental Tourist," for best picture and best screenplay. (Warner Bros.)Link
Kasdan's 1991 film "Grand Canyon" explored issues of race and class. Kasdan directed and co-wrote the film with his wife, Meg Kasdan, earning a shared Oscar nomination for screenwriting. (20th Century Fox)Link
Kasdan wrote the script for the 1992 drama "The Bodyguard." (Warner Bros.)Link
Kasdan wrote and directed 1994's "Wyatt Earp." (Warner Bros.)Link
Kasdan directed the 1995 romantic comedy "French Kiss." (Los Angeles Times)Link
Kasdan wrote and directed the 1999 dramedy "Mumford," about a psychologist with a questionable past who moves into a small town. (Touchstone Pictures)Link
Kasdan wrote and directed the 2003 supernatural thriller "Dreamcatcher," based on the novel by Steven King. (Warner Bros.)Link
Kasdan on the set of "Dreamcatcher." (Warner Bros.)Link
Kasdan and his wife, Meg Kasdan, co-wrote "Darling Companion," a 2012 film about a woman who loves her dog more than her husband. (Sony Pictures Classics)Link
Lawrence Kasdan accepts the Final Draft Hall of Fame award for his career in screenwriting on Feb. 7, 2013 in Beverly Hills. (Jeff Drongowski / Drongo Photo)Link
Fans were relieved this week to learn that Lawrence Kasdan would be writing another "Star Wars" movie. After all, it was Kasdan who penned "The Empire Strikes Back," the film that is almost universally regarded as the best in the series. It was partly for the fans, Kasdan said, that he decided to return to "Star Wars" — just not the fans you'd expect.
"[My] kids are looking forward to it," Kasdan said. "It's a movie that my grandson, who's not even 3, is already excited about. There are not many movies like that."
Indeed, and Kasdan wrote three of them. After 1980's "Empire," George Lucas recruited Kasdan to pen the "Return of the Jedi" — the final installment in the trilogy — as well as "Raiders of the Lost Ark," the film that began the "Indiana Jones" franchise. What followed for Kasdan was a prolific writing and directing career, which boasts such cinematic landmarks as "Body Heat," "The Big Chill" and "The Accidental Tourist."
But it is his contribution 30 years ago and his upcoming return to the "Star Wars" universe that has made him the subject of intense focus in the world of fandom; Kasdan and "X-Men: Days of Future Past" scribe Simon Kinberg will each write a stand-alone "Star Wars" spinoff movie for Lucasfilm and its new corporate parent Disney, it was confirmed Tuesday. The spinoffs will follow the J.J. Abrams-directed "Episode VII," the first in a planned "Star Wars" sequel trilogy.
Kasdan reflected on his career and said he was "excited" about writing another "Star Wars" film in a sit-down interview before his induction into Final Draft's screenwriting hall of fame Thursday evening at the Paley Center in Beverly Hills.
"Hollywood's become such a difficult place to do certain kinds of stories, and a lot of them are the kind of stories that I did all the time," Kasdan said. "To do a big movie that Hollywood does now, that you think can be better than most of them … that's a rare opportunity."
Kasdan would not confirm reports that the spinoff films would center on iconic characters Han Solo, Boba Fett or Yoda, but said he wasn't focusing on his previous scripts or on the extended "Star Wars" universe in his approach to writing the new film.
"I'm trying to start fresh," he said. "There are certain pleasures that we think the saga can bring to people that they've been missing, and we're hoping to bring them that, and at the same time, have them feel that it's all new."
Kasdan said he was looking forward to working with "terrific writers" Kinberg and "Episode 7" screenwriter Michael Arndt. Asked if it would be strange to work on "Star Wars" without George Lucas at the helm, Kasdan was quick to point out that it was Lucas who recruited him to the project last fall.
"George sort of brought me into this part of it, and he's stepping back from the company," he said. "He's sort of given his blessing to everybody, and he'll be there if you need him. I think everyone's interested to see where this can go. It's been some very different places over 30 years …. I think with J.J., we'll get something entirely new."
It's well-trodden territory. Since the original trilogy three decades ago, "Star Wars" has expanded to include novels, comics, video games, the critically praised animated TV series "The Clone Wars," and the oft-maligned prequel trilogy, beginning with 1999's "The Phantom Menace." But the first three films stand apart, Kasdan said.
"The ones I worked on were a long time ago, and they had a slightly different feeling than the ones that followed," he said. "The first three, 'Star Wars,' 'Empire' and 'Return of the Jedi' are all sort of more about people than the ones that followed. 'Empire' appeals to people, I think, because it's the second act of a three-act play, and everything sort of goes to hell during the movie. And when you leave, everyone is in trouble, and that is the best part of the story to write. And people responded to it. Irvin Kershner was a completely different kind of director than George, so the movie's much darker than the first 'Star Wars.' It's more edgy."
Despite its popularity and acclaim, "Empire" is not his favorite installment in the series.
"I must say, I think that the great, great film is the first 'Star Wars,' " he said. "I do. It's hilarious, and it changed movies forever."
It also had a profound effect on pop culture, inspiring a deeply devoted fan base that has only grown with the advent of the Internet. But Kasdan says that the exposure and scrutiny haven't changed his process.
"Nothing changes, really," he said. "I don't read that much of it. But when it was announced that I was doing it, it was a really nice response on the Internet. People have a lot invested in 'Star Wars,' and I think some of them were happy that I was back."
– Noelene Clark
'Star Wars': 7 things we want from J.J. Abrams
Abrams directing 'Star Wars': Many voices cry out
Frank Oz ready to return to Yoda for spinoff
Stuart Freeborn, the legend behind Yoda, dies
'Star Wars': Disney confirms stand-alone films
'Star Wars' 3-D prequels postponed for 'Episode VII'
'Star Wars': Disney confirms Abrams directing gig
Obama White House says no to Death Star petition
'Star Wars': Michael Arndt signed to pen Episode VII


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Drawl: A simple Firefox OS drawing app
Drawl is a simple drawing application for your Firefox OS phone. Users can use different brush styles, sizes and colors to draw on the canvas. They can then save the drawing to their Firefox OS Gallery app and share it … Continue reading


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You can't ask for more than this.
You can't ask for more than this.
The Sac-Joaquin Section Division IV football championship game will feature the section's two all-time winningest programs in terms of championships, Escalon and Central Catholic, who have combined to win 23 titles.
Escalon's Nathan Chunn scored his fourth touchdown of the night, and the No. 8 Escalon Cougars advanced to the Sac-Joaquin Section Division IV championship game with a thrilling 42-35 quadruple overtime win over No. 5 Los Banos on Friday.
The Cougars (11-2) will meet No. 6 Central Catholic (11-2) in next week's championship game, which will be played either Friday or Saturday at Lincoln High. Game time and day have yet to be announced.
Chunn scored the game-winner on a 13-yard swing pass from Phillip Kimble on third down to give the Cougars, who had the first set of downs in the fourth overtime, a 42-35 lead.
Los Banos (11-2), which opened the season with a 34-32 win over the Cougars, failed to answer. Quarterback Chris Corpuz was incomplete on his first two throws. Following a 1-yard gain on third down, Corpus' incomplete pass into the end zone on fourth down sealed the victory for Escalon, which will play in the section championship game for the 14th time. The Cougars have won eight section titles, second only to Central Catholic's 15.
The Cougars had a chance to win it in the first overtime after Los Banos failed to score, but Thomas Diniz missed a field-goal attempt. Chunn scored on a 1-yard run in the second overtime, and Andrew Zavala caught a 4-yard touchdown pass from Kimble on fourth down to extend the game in the third overtime.


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Mass. college gets $200K to teach pastors science
WENHAM, Mass. (AP) — A Massachusetts Christian college has received a $200,000 grant to help pastors become more scientifically literate.
The BioLogos Foundation grant will fund a project by two Gordon College biology professors to give pastors more confidence when dealing with issues where science and faith intersect.
Professor Craig Story said there's significant misinformation about science among Christians, and pastors are often conflicted on the topic. The new program aims to help pastors better discuss matters of science and faith and better evaluate such issues on their scientific merit.
The grant, distributed over three years, will fund weeklong courses at Gordon and the nearby Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary for about 20 pastors from the U.S. and Korea. The project also hopes to establish a network of pastors committed to learning more about science.


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PRINCESS Kate was devastated last night after the nurse duped by a prank call from two Aussie DJs was found dead from a suspected suicide bid.
Their thoughts and prayers are with Jacintha Saldanha's family, friends and colleagues at this very sad time
Jacintha Saldanha is thought to have killed herself after being fooled into thinking she was speaking to the Queen.
The mum-of-two, hailed as an "excellent nurse", was found dead yesterday morning close to King Edward VII Hospital, where Kate was treated for acute morning sickness.
Kate and Prince William said they were "deeply saddened" by the tragedy after it was revealed they had not complained about her actions.
The royal spokesman said: "Their thoughts and prayers are with Jacintha Saldanha's family, friends and colleagues at this very sad time."
Last night the shamed 2Day FM DJs who made the call, Mel Greig and Michael Christian, were taken off air.
Ms Saldanha, 46, was helping out on reception when they made the joke call on Tuesday morning pretending to be Prince Charles and the Queen. She failed to rumble the hoax and put them through to another nurse who gave a rundown on Kate's condition on air.
The sniggering pair were last night bombarded with angry calls to quit.
Brits let rip on Twitter as 2Day FM continued to plug the "prank call the world is talking about" after news broke of Jacintha's death.
Alison Hassell told Greig: "If you have any kind of conscience or morals..... Right about now you should be typing your resignation."
Peter Timmins wrote: "There are no words to describe the disgust that everyone else is feeling about the prank you thought so funny."
Hours earlier Christian had tweeted: "If you'd said to me 'MC this week will finish with you making international headlines' I would have punched you in the face. #RoyalPrank."
Both DJs deleted their Twitter accounts last night as the backlash grew. Last night 2Day FM bosses issued a statement saying: "We extend our deepest sympathies to her family and all that have been affected by this situation around the world.
"Chief Executive Officer Rhys Holleran has spoken with the presenters. They are both deeply shocked and at this time we have agreed that they not comment about the circumstances.
"SCA and the hosts have decided that they will not return to their radio show until further notice out of respect for what can only be described as a tragedy."
Ms Saldanha, who lived in Bristol with partner Benedict Barboza and her two children, was found unconscious at 9.35am yesterday. Her death is being treated as unexplained.
A statement from the central London hospital said: "Jacintha was an excellent nurse and a well-respected and popular member of staff with all her colleagues. We can confirm that Jacintha was recently the victim of a hoax call to the hospital. The hospital has been supporting her at this difficult time."
Jacintha's family said last night: "We as a family are deeply saddened by the loss of our beloved Jacintha."
She lived with Ben, son Junal, 16, and a daughter, 14. She stays in London when she is working.
A Bristol neighbour said: "They're a lovely family. Ben gives my lad a lift when he goes refereeing at Bristol Rovers with Junal."
Another neighbour Marianne Homes, 49, said: "I've always known her as the doctor, she was always very smartly dressed.
"Their son was always really into football, we always saw him with a ball kicking it about with his friends."
Hospital chairman Lord Glenarthur added: "This is a tragic event. Jacintha was a first-class nurse who cared diligently for hundreds of patients during her time with us."
Palace officials also stressed they had not called for any action to be taken against the hospital.
A spokesman for St James's Palace said: "At no point did the Palace complain to the hospital."
Hundreds of messages were left on a Facebook page set up in her memory.
Sally Comer wrote: "RIP Jacintha I am so sorry you felt you had to do this you will be missed and much loved I hope the DJs feel ashamed. Xx"
The prank call began with Miss Greig asking: "Could I please speak to Kate please, my grand-daughter?"
Thinking she was speaking to the Queen, Ms Saldanha replied: "Oh yes, just hold on ma'am."
She then put the presenters through to Kate's nurse who revealed the Duchess had "had a comfortable night" and was about to get "freshened up".
After the hoax, the hospital branded it "a foolish prank call".
But Aussie police insisted Greig and Christian had not broken any laws.
A source at New South Wales Police said: "There are a number of telephone related offences but they all pertain to menacing calls not joking type calls.
"The fact this woman has committed suicide is a tragedy but in a court of law it would be very difficult to prove that she killed herself because of the call from 2Day FM.
"What the presenters did was not the right thing to do but they won't be charged."
Princess Kate's best pal Jessica Hay thinks she and Prince William may name the baby after his mother Princess Diana, if it is a girl. She revealed: "Diana is a name that Catherine's always loved."


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Canidae Brand Dog Food
On January 22, 2009, a class action lawsuit was filed seeking relief for purchasers of Canidae brand dog food nationwide. The lawsuit alleges that dogs became sick after consuming the Canidae products. Progressive Law Group is prosecuting this action in connection with affiliated counsel.
Class Action filed against the makers of Canidae Dog Food Admin | January 27, 2009 5:16 pm Madison, Wisconsin, January 26, 2009
A class action lawsuit has been filed on behalf of dog owners nationwide against the makers of CANIDAE brand dog food, seeking payment of veterinarian bills for dogs who allegedly took ill after consuming the food between last summer and the present. The lawsuit also asks the Court to order the defendants, Canidae Corporation and Diamond Pet Foods, to launch a corrective informational campaign. Affected dogs have experienced
rectal bleeding, loose and bloody stools, lethargy, and death, according to consumer complaints posted on internet forums and websites.
We can't push back the clock: if hundreds or thousands of dogs have suffered, that can't be reversed. But the lawsuit at least gives dogs and
their owners an avenue for redress, stated Ilan Chorowsky, one of the plaintiff's lawyers with the Progressive Law Group, which has offices in
Madison, Wisconsin and Chicago, Illinois. The Animal Law Center, Rosner & Mansfield LLP, and Doyle Lowther LLP also represent the plaintiff.
Further information about the lawsuit is available at: http://www.dogfoodclassaction.com/index.html


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Wofford's record-setting rusher finishes his career after loss to North Dakota State on Saturday in Fargo, N.D.
FARGO, N.D. — It was a slow, sad walk for Eric Breitenstein.
The clock ticked down to all zeroes, a roar went up in the Fargodome and Wofford players shook the hands of their opponents from North Dakota State. Then the Terriers started for the tunnel, the season having ended with a 14-7 loss in the quarterfinals of the FCS playoffs.
Breitenstein was one of the last to make it off the field. He kept being stopped for hugs. And the guy known for his toughness tried unsuccessfully to hold back the tears.
"It was pretty emotional for me, knowing it was the last time I would walk off the field wearing a Wofford uniform," Breitenstein said. "I choked up a little bit."
Breitenstein finished his career with 135 rushing yards on 24 carries and became the first player this season to rush for 100 yards against the No. 1 defense in the country. North Dakota State was allowing only an average of 63 yards per game, four teams failed to even reach 25 yards.
"It wasn't enough," Breitenstein said. "… I guess that's a pretty good thing. That says a lot for our offensive line. I think we have the best offensive line in the country across the board. These guys make it easy for me. Even against a good team, they were able to open a seam for me. But in the end, it doesn't matter."
He leaves as the best player in Wofford football history. He went over the 2,000-yard mark this season, setting the record at 2,035. With 5,730 career yards, he is not only the all-time leading rusher at Wofford but the second-highest ever in the Southern Conference. Adrian Peterson had 6,559 yards for Georgia Southern.
Breitenstein rushed for at least 100 yards 32 times in his career, including all but one game this season. The only time he fell short was when he had only five carries for 35 yards (and two touchdowns) and came out early in an 82-0 win against Lincoln. His 12 games of 100 yards this season is a Southern Conference record and his 11th straight such game tied an NCAA record.
"I poured my heart and soul into this. Everybody has," Breitenstein said. "This senior class is outstanding. I know the younger guys are going to go far next year. They have the ability and the heart. I just wish I could do it with them."
Breitenstein is one of three finalists for the Walter Payton Award given to the top player in FCS. He has been invited to the Dec. 17 awards ceremony in Philadelphia. He has hopes to play in the NFL.
"Now I have to sign with an agent and figure out the next step in my life," he said. "I think I've shown that I should get an opportunity. Somebody's got to give me a shot to fit into their system. I pride myself in being one of those guys who will do anything you want me to do.
"… I've already taken my last class. I just have a couple of papers to finish up. I'll be done this week. Then we'll go up to the Walter Payton Award thing and see how that goes. Hopefully, I won't come back home hanging my head again."


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The Watonwan County Board met Tuesday, Jan 22, and approved the purchase of two new Sabin copiers from New Star for the court house and extension offices.
They received bids from CBS at $16,959.50, Metro at $16,422 and New Star at $16,620.
The Watonwan County Board met Tuesday, Jan 22, and approved the purchase of two new Sabin copiers from New Star for the court house and extension offices.
They received bids from CBS at $16,959.50, Metro at $16,422 and New Star at $16,620.
"New Star is a whole lot cheaper here, because we paid a maintenance cost for our current copiers, and so what they are going to do is credit us at cost toward these new copiers, so that's $1,120 on that," said I.S. Director Greg Walsh.
This brings the estimated cost of both copiers for New Star to $14,225 with credit. If the Watonwan County Board would have made the decision to accept a bid from another company, they would have forfeit ten months of credit which the county is contractually obligated to pay.
The deal was made with the caveat that the purchase would not become final until the Sabin copier was fully connected to the Watonwan County servers.
"With the New Star Sabin copier we've had trouble connecting to our new servers," said Walsh. "If we are to purchase a Sabin copier I'd like an assurance that we could connect to our servers."
The Watonwan County Board expressed some hesitation in moving forward with the new Xerox Tax Program from LRMS which assists assessors in determining property tax.
The budgeted cost for the program is $186,300 with $70,000 placed in an escrow account this year. The county is obligated to pay Legacy on an annual basis at $53,000 with a three percent increase per year until 2016.
"I'm hesitant because I've made two attempts at this system and one failed miserably and the other we threw enough money at to get it to work," said Commissioner Scott Sanders. "It's like we have a car that we are paying $53,000 to drive and now we're putting a down payment on a new car, but we don't know when we'll be able to drive this car - and we're still making payments on it."
The first tax system was put into place in 1983, but it has only just recently become an issue. Maintenance costs arise from trying to get the program to run, and it has been difficult to modify things within the system. The current program has been running for the last 20 years and is using 20 year old code.
"The more we change, the faster it changes," said Commissioner David Holmgren.
The commissioners approved unanimously to move forward with the new Xerox Tax Program.
The agreement between the city of St. James and Watonwan County regarding the communications dispatch and office space lease was up for renegotiation at the Jan. 22 meeting.
"The two agreements ran out at the end of last year," said Watonwan County Auditor Don Kuhlman. "I modified the dispatch one to resemble the Madelia agreement – these agreements continue on in perpetuity."
The new agreement has St. James paying $2,500 on the first of each month for dispatching services. They will also be renting space from Watonwan County for $1,140 through 2013. This new agreement was approved unanimously by the Watonwan County Board.
Kuhlman then introduced a change order to the current maintenance and support agreements between ACS Enterprises Solutions, LLC and Minnesota Counties Computer Cooperative.
Kuhlman reported he would like to see the commissioners approve the purchase of a new cash register software application at the cost of $5,400 with a maintenance fee of $2,474. There was also another purchase order on the resolution for a New Vision Treasurers Financial Software Application at $4,900. Kuhlman was hesitant about the financial software.
"What we saw for a presentation did not impress us that much," said Kuhlman.
This change order was tabled until more information could be provided.
The Watonwan County Board received two bids for site testing at the ARMER Tower from Braun and American Engineering. Braun made a bid at $4,995 and American Engineering's bid came in at $2,290. The commissioners accepted the bid from American Engineering unanimously.
Other business:
Commissioner appointments on departments and committees were made.
Payment of the Sheriff and general credit card was approved.
Watonwan County Association of Township's meeting was scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 21.
Commissioners reviewed a state engagement letter for a 2013 audit.
Kuhlman went over the December 2012 financials, with the general fund just $125,000 in the red and $450,000 in revenue over proposed budget being brought to the county.
Approved all training requests, personnel changes, payment of the bills and minutes.
A public hearing date and time was set up for the minor alterations in the Highway 60 - JD 13 project. The public hearing will be advertised in the upcoming Plaindealer


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Cletus Ray Hast, 95, of Boonville, died Thursday, July 19, 2014.
He was born in White County, Ill., to John Henry and Ora Lee Hast and was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Reba (Harris).
Cletus was a master carpenter and farmer for most of his life. He will be remembered as a loyal husband and doting father and grandfather.
Among his survivors are: a daughter, Donna (Hast) Deffendoll; three grandchildren, Susan (Frank) James, Amy (John) DeVries and Steve Barnett; seven great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.
The family wishes to thank the staff of Transcendent Health Care, Southern Care Hospice and his granddaughter, Susan, for caring for him in his final days.
A graveside funeral service will be at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 22, 2014, at Burnt Prairie Cemetery in Burnt Prairie.
Visitation is from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday and from 10 a.m. to noon Tuesday at Bradley's Colonial Chapel, 1005 E. Main St. Boonville, IN 47601.
Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children or Southern Care Hospice. Condolences to the family can be sent to www.bradleyscc.com.


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Item Name: The "Griffin" Bow Tie
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It was Me2's turn to attempt the 6 and three quarter mile run today. Since he broke the hour barrier his form has not been good. He only managed 3 miles last week before having to give in, whilst Me1 continues to improve and has a PB of 54.08 (some five minutes faster than his more hedonistic rival). I would have thought that Me2 would be more competitive than Me1 in this race, but his spirit seems to be broken. He set off with hope in his heart today, but he was immediately a minute a mile off the pace set by Me1 and from then on just got slower. With three miles down and trailing Me1's comparative time by over 3 minutes it seemed like today was going to be a real test of Me2's mental strength. Would he dig in and at least improve on his own PB or would he crumble with the disappointment? It turned out to be the latter. He was broken by his failure, unable to comprehend how he could be running so much worse against an athlete who, on paper at least, was his equal. This time he managed four miles (in an embarrassing time of 36.39) before juddering to a halt.
Is his lifestyle catching up with him? Why is he doing so badly of late? We can only speculate. But it leaves Me1 in an enormously advantageous position for the next run. When they get the time to return to the snooker board it will be interesting to see if this psychology has any effect on the result.
I didn't make any progress with the play as I had to get other bits and pieces done (including next week's Metro article - though luckily Morph came to my rescue for that - and can't believe I missed the convoluted "Morpheus in the Underworld" pun for my cellar-dwelling mutant clay figure animation in yesterday's blog). But a few more thematic ideas gelled in my head as I struggled with the run.
I also had a preview for "Lord of the Dance Settee". In a way I wish I hadn't put any of these until a time that I was likely to have the play out of the way, but overall it's probably a good thing that I have quite a few lined up. It looks like I am writing the stand-up show by stealth. I am, if anything, further ahead than usual with this. It's going to be a challenging couple of months, but hopefully I can come out of it with two good shows. I've still got a month to perfect the play script, which is plenty of time. The issue is that it's going to be hard to get a really strong cast without having something to show them. "Trust me, it's going to be really good when I've actually written it" generally isn't enough to tempt people in.
This week's Metro column about the time that Emma Kennedy tried to murder me (you've pretty much read it, it's the blog from this time last week) is up here.


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|Assistant Coach
|Second Season
Vince Devany started his second stint as an assistant coach with the Gauchos in April 2015. He previously served as the second assistant coach on the 2013 Gaucho squad, helping groom then-freshman setter Jonah Seif into an All-American.
He left the program after the 2013 campaign to play professionally overseas. He spent two seasons in Belgium before spending one season in France. For the 2015 season, Devany led the French Ligue Nationale de Volley (LNV) in setting efficiency while starring for Cambrai Volleyball Club.
Devany, a UCSB alum, was a three-year starter for the Gauchos, playing from 2008-2011. Over his four-year UCSB career, Devany amassed 4,625 assists, the third most in school history. His junior year campaign of 1,551 assists is a program record in the rally scoring era (since 2001), while his 1,362 helpers as a senior are the most of any player in collegiate volleyball since the NCAA moved to 25-point games in 2011.
Vince was the starting setter for the 2011 squad that advanced to the NCAA Final Four held in University Park, Pa. Devany, a deft ball-handler, recorded 86 assists over two matches in the NCAA tournament, ultimately falling short in a heart-wrenching five-game loss in the championship to Ohio State.
As a coach, Devany will share his volleyball acumen with the team's setters, as well as assisting with administrative duties.


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