text:
Hand Signed Limited Edition Giclée Print on Board
Edition Size - 150
Size – 32 x 24"
Comes Framed
In 2002, Doug Hyde was a young artist painting pictures for his family and friends in his spare time but by 2005, he was named as the UK's best selling published artist.
Doug's extraordinary rise from virtual unknown to the most popular living artist in the UK has been meteoric. Yet, despite his phenomenal success, he has never lost touch with the realities of life and has continued to produce work based around his love for his family, his unfailing optimism and his sheer enthusiasm for life.
Inspired by his own emotional responses to life, Doug's intention is to provoke a positive response in others; his success in this aim can be seen not only by the huge impact his work has made on the British and international art scene, but also by the money he has raised for two important charities - "Look Good…Feel Better" and "Families for Children" - through the sale of his artwork.
"I hope people can feel a connection with my work, and share the positive emotions behind it! I am passionate about my work and commit everything to it. I hope that those who buy my work feel the same emotion for it that I do; I hope they love it!"
Kerry Darlington and other art produced in the UK, we aim to ship next day or with in a few days of order.
Artwork which need to be ordered from the Studios may take 14-21 business days to arrive, this may also include in stock items as these may be on hold at the Studio. All our items are bespoke pieces, many of which are also hand-signed and are not "off the shelf" items. However we do aim to deliver your artwork as quickly as possible to you.
We do not accept returns of original production / limited edition artwork, this includes animation cels and drawings. If artwork arrives damaged, please contact us within 5 days of receipt and we will work with you to get a suitable replacement.
Payment can be made online by any credit or debit card.
Our site uses the latest 128 bit SSL security, complying with and exceeding all necessary security requirements to protect your details. We do not store any sensitive information (card number, etc).
Only available to UK residents over 18, subject to terms and conditions. To apply for finance, please add the product to your cart, proceed through checkout and select 'Apply For Finance' as your payment option where you can complete the application form online.
Total Amount Payable Includes Deposit Amount.
The figures shown are an illustration based on the cost of goods. Final details including shipping and discounts where applicable will be displayed on the checkout page.
IMPORTANT: Hitachi Personal Finance rounds down the monthly payments, which may result in your total amount payable being less than the total cash price.


text:
NEW ORLEANS -- Another Super Bowl Media Day is in the books. As always, it was a zoo.
|Take a look at photos from Super Bowl XLVII media day session with the Baltimore Ravens in New Orleans.
Around The League was on the ground at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Some takeaways from this year's event ...
» Alex Smith lost his starting job and he didn't even get a riser. Cold-blooded. We can't imagine how happy he must have been when this thing was over.
» Walking through the crowd, I heard English, Spanish, German and Japanese. Probably missed some, too.
» There was a shockingly large crowd assembled around David Akers.
» The wacky persona rundown: We had a creepy rodeo clown, a 30-year-old man dressed as a boy superhero and Vic "The Brick." There also was a guy from Telemundo dressed as a royal monarch of some kind. Loco.
» The schlub-reporter-to-attractive-women ratio is improving in New Orleans with each day. Katherine Webb was in the building. As was Ines Sainz. This being a Super Bowl event, and not 1969, she knew she was safe from any New York Jets.
» You could have guessed, but Jim Harbaugh wore his standard outfit: Niners hat. Black shirt. Tan khakis. Sneakers. He has the wardrobe variety of a character from "The Simpsons" at this point.
» A reporter from something called the "OMG Insider" was handing players a cardboard cutout shaped as a hashtag. Some players went along with it (Terrell Suggs), but others seemed completely mystified by the exercise (Justin Smith).
» Speaking of Smith, he has a tattoo of the Anheuser Busch logo on his massive left arm. This is a man who has never tasted a wine cooler.
» Former NFL vice president of officiating and current Fox rules guy Mike Pereira was walking around holding a penalty flag. It's unknown why.
» I spent a few moments examining Joe Flacco's hair. It's short, neatly combed, no product. It's remarkable in how unremarkable it is. His dad probably would explain it with a different word.
» We overheard San Francisco 49ers guard Joe Looney get asked -- and I quote -- "Who's your favorite black person?"
Super Bowl Media Day can be strange.
Follow Dan Hanzus on Twitter @DanHanzus.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
The U.S. government shutdown, immigration reform, budget woes, problems with the Affordable Care Act online enrollment created a whirlpool of controversy and contretemps for Washington and provided blood-stirring language for the 2014 midterm elections and beyond.
Poll after poll after poll released after the federal government partially closed because the money ran out were variations on a theme: Republicans took a hit. A big hit.
President Obama and Democrats didn't come through unscathed, but definitely not as tarnished as Republicans in the budget confrontation.
Obama, however, took it on the chin with the less-than-smooth rollout of healthcare.gov, the site for Americans looking for and enrolling in health insurance under the Affordable Care Act, aka Obamacare.
The site went up on the same day the government shut down, so Obama's pain didn't begin until it became the only political game in town two weeks later.
When the House and Senate -- despite pleas from Tea Party-backed Republicans -- overwhelmingly passed a bill that both temporarily funded government and pushed out the nation's borrowing authority, the fingers began pointing.
Obama is racing to try to debug the website. Republicans, however, are still finger-pointing and haven't really done anything to tamp down the battle royale fomenting between the establishment and Tea Party wings.
While the midterm elections are little more than a year away, some observers say what happened this month won't affect an outcome in the 2014 elections. Others, however, aren't so sure.
Seven Senate seats now held by Republicans could be worrisome for the incumbents in the party primaries, Roll Call reported last week.
It's still too early to know how competitive many of the challengers -- former Vice President Dick Cheney's daughter Liz Cheney challenging Michael Enzi in Wyoming, conservative Louisville, Ky., businessman Matt Bevin taking on Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and state Sen. Chris McDaniel's run against Thad Cochran in Mississippi -- but the ride could be bumpy and expensive.
A primary defeat of any of a group of pragmatic Republicans -- which includes McConnell, Enzi and Cochran (if he decides to seek re-election next year) -- would further embolden the Tea Party movement in 2016 and further rend the GOP, non-partisan political handicapper Stuart Rothenberg said in a Roll Call commentary.
Those who consider compromise capitulation say they're trying to run the most conservative candidates in the reddest of states. But they have a blind spot, namely holding on to Republican-held seats in purple or bluish states.
The de facto congressional leader of the Tea Party movement, Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, led a drive to defund Obamacare as a condition of funding the government and House conservatives followed his lead, despite grumblings from moderates. Their fight fizzled and they came away from the deal that reopened the federal government with nothing except a damaged party brand.
Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., called the effort to defund Obamacare in the run-up to the government shutdown "a political gift" to Obama and the Democrats while urging lawmakers who backed the quixotic move to "do some soul-searching."
"I think we've learned that this was a political gift to the president by the Republican Party at a time when he needed it most," Graham recently on CBS's "Face the Nation." "The tactic of defunding the government unless he repealed his signature issue was as poorly designed as Obamacare itself, almost."
Graham, seen by the most conservative faction as a primary target, also chided Cruz, saying "the tactical choice that he embraced hurt our party."
He urged House Republicans to heed Speaker John Boehner, who has indicated he would change his strategy ahead of the next fiscal fight early next year.
"We've got a unique opportunity here after this debacle called the shutdown to re-energize the Congress and maybe get an understanding" on long-term budget issues, Graham said.
At the opposite end of the GOP spectrum, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie said he was dropping his appeal of a lower court's decision legalizing same-sex marriage in the Garden State, acknowledging that case was all but and his administration wouldn't pursue a losing cause in the state Supreme Court.
The decision by Christie, considered a possible contender for the 2016 GOP presidential nomination, also points up a huge contrast in governing philosophies between himself and Cruz, also reportedly considering a presidential run.
The Washington Post notes Christie's allowing for the legalization of same-sex marriage -- something 59 percent of all Republicans opposed in a March Post-ABC News poll -- demonstrates he recognized the realities of an unwinnable situation, something likely to make more rigid Republicans grit their teeth.
Should Christie run in 2016, his decision to drop his appeal opens the social-issues debate and discussions about broader governing philosophies.
Cruz readily admits he didn't move to the Senate from the House to make friends and he isn't planning on backing any of his colleagues in primaries -- a position that, on its face, runs counter to his post as vice chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, which is dedicated to re-electing incumbents.
Another conservative up-and-comer, Florida's Sen. Marco Rubio, isn't shunning the establishment. He's a member of the so-called Gang of Eight that crafted a bipartisan, sweeping immigration reform bill that passed the Senate and awaits action in the House. Obama has called on Congress to take up immigration reform now that the budget confrontations have been temporarily laid to rest.
Insiders told Roll Call they're skeptical the splintered Republican caucus can get something done on immigration reform any time soon.
Sources familiar with the thinking of Republican leaders and the unruly conservatives who clash with them are pessimistic about the party's ability to unite, even though immigration reform enjoys popular support within the party and voters overall.
"I would ask these immigration proponents, 'Does our party look like it's doing a good job of actively managing our favorables?'" one GOP aide said. "Does the [Republican National Committee] want us to do something? Sure it does, to give them talking points headed into 2016, making the party look like it's more reasonable and in tune with demographics a Republican presidential candidate might need. Is that something that's actually viable in the House? No. It's not."
Another Republican aide told Roll Call, "There is no chance the House brings anything to a vote. I'm pretty confident you don't have anyone in Republican leadership in the House telling you it would be good to vote on it. Just not going to happen, no matter how much [Obama] wants to change the debate to that issue."
Senate Democrats emerged from the government shutdown more confident about retaining control of the upper chamber next year-- with some polls indicating Democrats could pick up a seat or two held by Republicans, The Hill reported.
That optimism is tempered by concerns the botched rollout of Obamacare could muck up the electoral horizon and negate gains Democrats made during the government shutdown at the expense of the GOP.
"They certainly made the road to a Senate majority much more difficult," GOP strategist Ford O'Connell said of Republicans who embraced the shutdown strategy.
If Obamacare ends up clearly hurting consumers, Republicans could argue their reasoning for shutting down the government was sound, said Jennifer Duffy, a Senate analyst for the Cook Report.
"As we have witnessed, the attention span of the average voter is pretty short," Duffy told The Hill. "We're in wait-and-see mode."
A Democratic super PAC glommed onto the shutdown, flooding the Tallahassee, Fla., airwaves last week with an ad attacking Rep. Steve Southerland II, criticizing him for voting against the bill that ended the government shutdown.
Asked by Roll Call if the super PAC planned to expand this line of advertising against other House Republicans, spokesman Andy Stone said there were no immediate plans, "but without question it'll be an issue in future paid communications against vulnerable Republicans."


text:
Immediate & Professional Assistance
If you are seeking timely and professional help in the greater Worcester area, then Island Counseling Center (ICC) is the place to look. ICC provides a wide-range of services to the residents of Worcester County to help with your mental health needs. ICC will give you an appointment which fits your needs within a practical time frame.
ICC's philosophy centers on early intervention and crisis management to stabilize conditions, avoid crises, and prevent hospitalizations, whenever possible.
Services Provided Include:
- counseling;
- medication evaluation and management;
- educational and support groups;
- as well as advanced treatments such as Trans-Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Featuring TMS Therapy
NeuroStar TMS Therapy is a new treatment cleared by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for patients suffering from depression who have not achieved satisfactory improvement from prior antidepressant treatment.
TMS stands for "transcranial magnetic stimulation."
The NeuroStar TMS Therapy system is the first and only TMS Therapy® device cleared by the FDA for the treatment of depression.
Office Hours
- Monday through Thursday from 8:30 am - 6 pm
- Friday from 8:30 am - 5 pm.
However some nurses start as early as 6:30 am to accommodate our clients' schedules.
We are located at....
108 Grove St (Northworks Building)
2nd Floor
Worcester, MA 01605
View Map
New Patients
New patients should complete the following link to request services at Island Counseling Center: Intake Form
Patient Portal
ICC is happy to announce implementation of our Patient Portal where patients can access their appointments, list of medications, and send secure messages directly to their provider. If you have not yet signed up, please visit our office so we can activate your account.
Experienced Staff
ICC has an experienced staff with a minimum of 10 years of expertise providing services to patients with private insurance and federal - and state-funded insurance, with various psychiatric and psychological conditions.
We offer assistance to:
- adolescents,
- adults,
- seniors,
- as well as for families.


text:
Get excited about reading again with fun and interesting tips from our experts, including The M.D., our dietitians, and our fitness expert. In our health library, you will find all of the information you need to achieve your goals of making a healthy lifestyle change. So, start reading and start losing!
Learn how weight loss can decrease the effects of arthritis and help you live a better, more comfortable, life.
Simply answer a few questions so we can figure out your weight loss goals and provide solutions for a lighter, healthier you. Our weight loss meal plans are designed to help real people achieve real and lasting success.
Get free support to help you lose weight and be healthy with our Weekly Dish on Health.
© 2005-
Privacy Policy - Store Terms
Yes, send me free support to help me lose weight and
be healthy with the Weekly Dish on Health Newsletter.


text:
Hey Ginga, you back from Europe?
Hey Ginga, how are you feeling? Let's face it: the flu is awful. I hope your getting better each day. Not to be demanding, but when do you think you'll be feeling well enough to get things on the Build Divers RP rolling again? Please respond via a visitor message on my profile page.
Hey dude. Hope you're still around lol
Sent you a pm, hope you got it lol
Thanks Ginga! I'm enjoying the trip.
Thanks for the visitor message and the b-day wishes ^^
Enjoy your b-day, ginga!
I could work out a slightly fancy text to type in here but I'm too distressed so I'll leave it as is. Pardon that.
Again, enjoy yourself!
Happy Birthday you handsome little devil, you. *wink*
Okay, no, discount that last bit, I couldn't go through with it.
Happy Birthday, in any case, enjoy being 21, you're ultimately free now.
Senior Member


text:
Your browser does not support iframes.
Every year, Los Alamos High School hosts a group of foreign exchange students who apply through various global programs such as the Rotary's Youth Exchange, to explore American culture in depth.
Srna Petrovic, an 18-year-old senior from Serbia, is one such student who views her exchange experience as an opportunity to "see how other people live in a different part of the world." To her, being an exchange student means to "go somewhere where you have never been before and to stay with someone that you have never met before."
Petrovic applied for the exchange program because she "loved traveling and exploring new cities." Originally, Petrovic wanted to be located near the ocean, but despite the fact that she was placed in Los Alamos, the opposite of a seaport town, she said she has come to love the mountains and sunsets.
For Petrovic, the language barrier was nonexistent. Her proficiency in English, allowed her to observe the full swing of the American school system, as well as many different United States' holidays, her favorite being Thanksgiving.
Petrovic notes that in Serbia, she has "15 subjects each year, which [she] cannot choose." There are also no clubs or extracurriculars available.
Teen Pulse Staff Writer Katherine Wang asked students, "Are you burnt out because of school? Why or why not?"
Youth Activity Center Schedule
Monday: Free-throw contest
Tuesday: Button bracelets
Wednesday: Movies and muchies (Happy Earth Day)
Thursday: Shapes Scavenger Hunt
Friday: WII Friday
For an increasing number of parents, sending their child to public school for a well-rounded education is no longer an option.
Researchers say that homeschooling may be the fastest growing form of education in the U.S. Many reasons play into this statistic, the most recent of these being the implementation of the government's controversial Common Core education system.
Critics of the Common Core system say that it isn't doing anything to improve learning and that because of high stakes testing and teacher evaluations, teachers will teach to the tests instead of being dynamic in the classroom.
A 2011-2012 survey conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) found that 74 percent of parents who home school do so because they were unhappy with classroom instruction.
Another large reason parents are homeschooling is because of the school environment. According to the NCES survey, 91 percent of parents who choose homeschooling did so due to concern about the environment of the public school.
For Elizabeth Janke, 17, the public high school atmosphere was not something she wanted to be a part of.
After spending some time in high school, Janke decided to drop out of the system to study at home. She then took her General Education Development (GED) test at 15 years old.
Teen Pulse staff writer Ben Hanlon asked students, "What movies are you looking forward to seeing this year?"
Monday: Relay races (Los Alamos: Open 8 a.m.-6 p.m., White Rock: Closed)
Tuesday: Ping Pong tournament
Wednesday: Movies and muchies
Thursday: Los Alamos: Air hockey tournament, White Rock: Foosball tournament
Friday: Brain teasers — Fun exercises for the mind
Los Alamos: 662-9412, 475 20th St.
White Rock: 672-1565, 139 Longview Dr.
Open 3-6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and noon-6 p.m. Wednesday, unless otherwise noted.
Memberships are free and open to all third through eighth graders.
A twice, or in some cases thrice, in a lifetime experience, prom is a memorable and important event to teens across the board.
This year's Los Alamos High School prom is set for April 25 and will be at Buffalo Thunder Resort and Casino, a promising venue for an evening of spectacular fashion and a showcase of unique tastes. To get ahead of the game in terms of fashion and flare, one can simply glance back at the 2015 Golden Globe and Oscar's trends.
Immediately, endless options for dress silhouettes and necklines are noted. A-line skirts, mermaid tail contours, and classic ball gown fits promise any wearer a luxurious evening of glamour. Sweetheart and halter necklines offer traditional paths to elegance while keyhole necklines denote boldness as demonstrated by both actresses Lupita Nyong'o and Anna Kendrick at the Oscars.
From March 7-14, local teen Deanna Gutierrez took an all-expense-paid-trip to Washington D.C. to participate in the United States Senate Youth Program. (USSYP)hosted 104 students from around the nation including two students from every state, two from the District of Columbia, and two from the Department of Defense Education Activity.
USSYP is a leadership program that provides the opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in public service to meet senators, representatives, Supreme Court justices and the president of the United States to further develop and explore their interests in government work.
Specifically, the program was designed to increase teen understanding of the interactions and relationships between the judicial, executive, and legislative branches of government.
Additionally, students are granted a $5,000 scholarship by the Hearst Foundation to pursue undergraduate education with a focus in political science and American history.
The selection process starts when teachers from public or private schools nominate qualified students.
To be eligible, students must hold some form of elected office or student body position in their school or community while showing an interest in government, history and politics.
Teen Pulse Student Editor Tom Hanlon asked students, "What are you doing for Spring Break?"
Copyright © 2019
The Los Alamos Monitor is your source for local news, sports, events, and information in Los Alamos County and Los Alamos, NM, and the surrounding area.


text:
Hobbiton tours
Toot towards Matamata - known for its thoroughbred industry, dairy farming heritage, and historic Firth Tower Museum and of course Hobbiton Tour.
One of the things The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings movie fans want to do in New Zealand is visit as many sites from the films as they can. Many are unrecognisable, but just outside Matamata in the Waikato region of the North Island lay an unmistakeable piece of movie history - The Shire. When you take the trip out to Hobbiton you instantly see this is the real thing and if you don't spot recognisable bits of scenery - then the hobbit holes, gardens, village huts and stone bridge will jog your memory.
Originally the hobbit holes were not the beautifully kept homes of the little creatures with the big hairy feet, but are the facades that were left after filming. Now visitors to Hobbiton get to see the improved village given a revamp for The Hobbit complete with gardens, tools, little hobbit tools, window dressings and wildly overgrown laneways. The makeover makes Hobbiton much more interesting to visit and in the future you may even be able to eat and drink at the Green Dragon pub. I'm looking forward to that!
In the meantime Hobbiton HQ has The Shire's Rest Cafe to ease any hunger pangs. The site of The Shire set is about 20 minutes out of Matamata on a private farm owned by Ian Alexander. The story of how his land was chosen is rather amusing - as is the fact that this piece of prime sheep-producing country had to have its flock removed and more-Shire-looking sheep introduced. There is also the funny tale of how the landowner tested the wood, plywood and foam-brick Bridge with his Ute ...You'll have to take the tour to find out the results.
Anyway, apart from the set gossip you can see and touch the wonderful Party Tree, which is all natural and not computer generated. It is an amazing piece of nature, no doubt and it is to the relief of all that Ian Alexander didn't chop it down as he had thought about doing!!!!!!! The Hobbiton Movie Set and Farm Yours have also added in a Woolshed and sheep shearing demonstration that includes bottle feeding of lambs.
- See more at: http://www.legendtours.co.nz/nz/hobbiton-movie-set-tour-from-auckland.htmhttp://www.legendtours.co.nz


text:
The Insider's Architecture Tour: Palm Springs' Modernism Week
Palm Springs and mid-century modern-everything has basically become synonymous. The two are so inherently linked that Modernism Week, the celebration of architecture that defines this desert city, has become one of the best places to view––and buy––modern real estate.
If it wasn't already obvious to anyone that's visited, Matthew Reader, agent at the modern architecture-niche agency, the Paul Kaplan Group, and 10-year Modernism Week veteran, sums up why this event pairs so perfectly with Palm Springs. " The coloring of our natural environs lends to much of the shadow and light play within details of even lesser buildings," he says.
These details are what has made this year yet another success for the festival and the real estate. After all, as Reader says, "The buildings are impossible to ignore, even if you're not a great aficionado of architecture."
But even those familiar with architecture can run into an obstacle navigating a city this dense with gems; so, here's Reader's insider picks for the best Palm Springs' architecture of Modernism Week 2014:
"The private residence of Albert Frey is always a standout," Reader says. "The location––on the mountainside behind the art museum––affords it spectacular views, and being built into the mountainside with the rock protruding into the home is an early example of the lines between Palm Springs indoor-outdoor living being blurred."
Frey has always been an iconic designer of Palm Springs, producing notable landmarks such as the Palm Springs' City Hall and the Aerial Tramway, but this house is especially recognized for its small, compact space. "I love the built-in furnishings, and the hi-fi is a favorite…the efficient galley kitchen is another great feature of this love letter to compact living."
Another favorite of this year's festival is the crown jewel, the 1959 Siva House. Also known as the Russell house, it was envisioned by Detroit-transplant Hugh Kaptur. The residence is truly emblematic of what we think of as mid-century design, in that its focus (like Frey's), isn't on what's inside but rather the perfect marriage of both the indoor and outdoor space.
Carved into a spot above Palisades road, the endless panels of glass look over the assorted Palm Springs landscape, with blocks of color mirroring the bright interiors: golf course, second homes, and mountains abound. The interiors were picked from the Palm Springs' mid-century furniture scene: think Maloof end tables, a Hans Wegner daybed, and Nakashima barstools.
While the current owner's didn't opt to stay exclusively in mid-century style for every option, the home was thoughtfully updated to stay considerably in-line with the selection of 1950s pieces. In fact, it wouldn't be surprising if the owners of the Silva home exclusively shopped from the Modernism Week Show & Sale</> to outfit their home.
[one_half][/one_half] [one_half_last][/one_half_last]
Reader also suggests visiting the Edris House, and even the sad, oft-maligned Town and Country Center. "It's certainly one of the loveliest designs by A. Quincy Jones," Reader says, "It's really a disappointment that the owner does not take more of an interest in it or make it available to someone who cares."
This degradation of P.S. landmarks isn't uncommon, unfortunately. While many lectures at Modernism Week touch on this subject, Gary John's talk is the standout. "It's one of the most eye-opening and informative presentations that I've see," shares Reader, adding that it's an event he makes a priority to attend each year.
If it's been tricky to get spots on many of the tours or watch the lectures, there are also resources to either get first draft (sign up as a Palm Springs Modernism Committee member) or download the newest Palm Springs architectural tour app. It details over 80 mid-century landmarks by location, or architect. This app is an important supplement to any Palm Springs' trip, regardless of season, because like John's lecture, it really touches on the triumphs (and disappointments) of preservation efforts in the city.
While it is heartbreaking to read about the landmarks that have been destroyed by arson or simply a really horrible re-design, the degradation of some properties make the standout saved ones even brighter. Our favorites include the Tramway Gas Station and Fire Station No. 1, both rehabilitated landmarks in Palm Springs.
Perhaps the easiest way to enjoy the architecture in Palm Springs is to do the obvious: get your own place. Palm Springs is the perfect second-home option, thanks to the year-round sunshine and ability to preserve key mid-century modern architecture. For purchasing, the usual suspects are always stand-outs (think Wexler/Harrison, Albert Frey, A. Quincy Johns, Stewart Williams, Palmer/Krisel), but options such as renovated Alexander Construction Co. residences are also a safe investment.
Note that investing in modern real estate should always be done through an educated agent; many of these homes have been renovated and stripped down to the bolts, so it's important that whichever piece you do chose to invest in strikes the right balance between modern and thoughtful updates.
Now that Reader has shared his favorite architectural gems, tell us, which sites do you plan to visit (or have visited) during Modernism Week? We'd love to hear.


text:
SKY REPORTER: Comet PanSTARRS Visits main content.
by Steve Beyer on
Comet PanSTARRS (C/2011 L4) is due in our western evening skies and should be worth looking for as evening twilight is fading about a half hour after sunset during middle weeks of March.
Early evenings from about March 7 through the 19th are expected to offer the best opportunities to view comet PanSTARRS. Binoculars are a definite plus as we pan across areas of western sky within 10 degrees of the horizon looking to spot the comet's tail extending up from the direction of the recently set Sun. During the early evening of March 12th the comet is several degrees of arc to the left of a thin crescent moon. Early the following evening the wider lunar crescent is about 10 degrees above PanSTARRS.
Some estimates predict the comet's extended tail will range in brightness between magnitudes zero and one during this period. That would make it about as vivid at maximum as stars such as Rigel, Capella, and Procyon, then fade somewhat to the brightness of first magnitude Betelgeuse and Aldebaran by mid-March. Other predictions suggest the comet will only be as bright as second magnitude stars of the Big Dipper. That being said, and keeping in mind the unpredictable nature of comets, we look forward to judging for ourselves the success of these predictions.
The following NASA video tells what we might expect from this comet:
Friday March first sunrise in New York City is at 6:29 a.m. Eastern Standard Time. That evening the Sun located in Aquarius sets at 5:47 p.m.
Friday March 15th, sunrise is at 7:07 a.m. and sunset occurs at 7:03 p.m., Eastern Daylight Time.
On the last day of the month, Sunday the 31st, the Sun is in Pisces rising at 6:41 a.m. and setting at 7:20 p.m. The altitude of the sun at solar noon, its maximum daily elevation, increases during March from 42 degrees of arc on the first to 54 degrees on the 31st. The duration of daylight this month increases by one hour and 21 minutes.
During March average nighttime temperatures recorded at Central Park increase from 31 degrees Fahrenheit on the first to 40 degrees on the 31st.
Principal Phases of the Moon are:
|Last Quarter
|March 4
|New Moon
|March 11
|First Quarter
|March 19
|Full Moon
|March 27
At the start of the month Mars, Mercury, Venus, and Neptune are all close to the direction of the Sun and difficult to see due to twilight. On the other hand, Jupiter remains a vivid feature in Taurus, and Saturn is rising progressively earlier during evening hours.
Mercury, in Pisces, sets at 6:17 p.m. on March 1st. On the last day of the month it will have moved into the pre-dawn sky within boundaries of the constellation Aquarius and rises at 5:45 a.m.
Venus rises shortly before the Sun at 6:21 a.m. at the start of March. On the 31st it sets with the Sun in Pisces.
On the first of March Mars is in Aquarius, setting at 6:37 p.m. By month's end it exits the sky at 6:36 p.m. in Pisces.
Jupiter sets at 1:04 a.m. on March 1st and by month's end sets at 12:26 a.m.
During March Saturn is in Libra. On the first of the month it rises above the southeastern horizon at 10:36 p.m., and on the night of the 31st it rises at 9:32 p.m.
Uranus is in Pisces. On the first night of March it sets at 7:53 p.m. At month's end it sets at 7:03 p.m.
Neptune remains in Aquarius rising at 6:14 a.m. on March 1st, and rises at 5:19 a.m. on March 31st.
During hours after midnight Monday March 4th, the Third Quarter Moon is in the vicinity of Antares and stars at the western part of the constellation Scorpius.
Daylight Saving Time starts at 2 a.m. the morning of Sunday March 10, when we set our clocks springing forward one hour.
During the night of Sunday March 17th, the waxing crescent Moon is near Jupiter in Taurus, when about two degrees of arc separate these bright objects.
The evening of Tuesday the 19th, the first quarter moon is in the constellation Gemini, near the most northerly point on the ecliptic. This night the Moon is also near the direction of comet ISON. Our ISON monitoring continues with that potentially brilliant comet still faint at 16th magnitude. During March it's in the northern part of Gemini, about half way between brilliant stars Capella in Auriga and Procyon in Canis Minor.
Spring begins in the Northern Hemisphere at 7:02 a.m. the morning of Wednesday March 20th. At that time the Sun is directly over a point in the Republic of the Congo, on the equator at 16 degrees five minutes east longitude.
Tuesday March 26 our colleague Joe Rao will be at the Hayden Planetarium Space Theatre for his Astronomy Live lecture presenting "Spring Skies - A Comet is Coming!"
Wednesday the 27th the Full Moon is in the constellation Virgo, seven degrees west of first magnitude star Spica. March's Full Moon is variously called the Full Storm, Sap, or Worm Moon, allusions to terrestrial goings on at this time of year.
During the nights of March 28th and 29th, the waning gibbous Moon will be near Saturn.
On the last day of March Mercury is at its greatest western elongation from the Sun, at an angular distance of 28 degrees.
March brings the passing of magnificent constellations of winter as they settle towards the western horizon during hours after evening twilight. At these times decidedly less vivid constellations that typify springtime evenings are rising in the east. Stars currently in that portion of the sky are generally in a direction away from the disk of the Milky Way Galaxy and dramatic stellar concentrations in and around Orion.
Rather than dwelling on the end of one celestial season, let's celebrate the return of beautiful although moderately bright star patterns such as the Sickle of Leo, the Big Dipper, and the rise of brilliant Arcturus, what I call the star of springtime!


text:
10 Great Reasons to Return for Big Bash• March 17, 2008 Share:
Wabash alumni who graduated in classes ending with 3's and 8's will gather June 6-8 for the Fifth Annual Big Bash Reunion Weekend. And even if you're not in those classes, there are still plenty of great reasons to return to your alma mater for reunion weekend.
Why come back? Wabash's sixth president, George Mackintosh, said it best:
"As the years wax and wane, you will come back to us in June as pilgrims to a shrine. And the old College will welcome you as a mother her children."
Click here to read more about Big Bash, see who plans to attend, and register.
The top-10 reasons to return to Wabash for Big Bash Reunion Weekend:
10 — Listen to Max Servies '58 recount Wabash's glorious athletics tradition
9 — Walk under or around one of Wabash's arches, depending on your particular tradition
8 — Tour the spectacular Hays Science Building, home to the biology and chemistry departments
7 — Meet second-year (sophomore) President Pat White and his wife, Chris
6 — Listen to former Indy Mayor Stephen Goldsmith '68 talk about politics and policy
5 — Walk up and down the stairs in Center Hall just to "hear 'em creak"
4 — Spend a thoughtful hour in the Pioneer Chapel remembering old classmates, old times
3 — Be a part of history by participating in the first Scarlet Yarns video memory book
2 — Sit for a spell on the Senior Bench (and paint it if you dare)
1 — Catch up with classmates and relive fond memories
Last year, more than 370 alumni returned to sign the official, historic Alumni Register, blasting the previous record of 340 Big Bash returnees. Last year men came back from 36 states, D.C., and four foreign countries. Scott Cougill '87 and his family traveled the farthest, coming in from Thailand. Tom Milligan '57 and his wife, June, came all the way from Johannesburg, South Africa. Brandon Mitchener '87 flew in from Brussels to attend his 20th reunion.
"What are a few thousand living sons of Wabash in a world of six billion people," asked Pastor John Van Nuys '83 at the Big Bash worship service "We may not be many, but we are going to live as a blessing."
And it wasn't just alumni who returned. Professor of English Emeritus Bert Stern came to campus to visit with old friends. He said, "Our journey is about the depth of time that gathers around us. As I've grown older, I realize not only the weight of time, but also the depth; the mystery deepens for us."


text:
Park graduates Sudeep Sunthankar '12 and John Yanik '12, along with four collaborators, recently published a patent on "Implantation tools for spinal cord stimulator leads and related methods" – affectionately known by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office as US 20130289685 A1.
Patent Holders Sudeep Sunthankar '12 and John Yanik '12 Tackle Medical School
Krispy Kreme Challenge Races Total Over $550,000 for North Carolina Children's Hospital
posted 2013.02.12 What started as a dare between friends in 2004 has grown into one of the largest annual events at North Carolina State University, drawing thousands of competitors to Raleigh each year. The 2013 Krispy Kreme Challenge involved a record 8,000 runners and raised over $170,000. Over the course of the nine year history of the Krispy Kreme Challenge, the organization has donated a total of over $550,000 to the North Carolina Children's Hospital — a state-of-the-art facility that serves over 70,000 children
Read more »
Krispy Kreme Challenge Involves Record Number of Participants and Raises Over $100,000 for Charity
posted 2012.02.06 On a brisk Saturday morning in February, a record 7,700 participants took part in the Krispy Kreme Challenge — an event that included runners from as far away as Australia. The race raised more than $100,000 to benefit the North Carolina Children's Hospital. Participants had one hour to run 2.5 miles from the NC State Belltower to the Krispy Kreme store on Peace Street, consume a dozen doughnuts, and complete an additional 2.5 miles. Individuals also had the option to
Read more »
Krispy Kreme Challenge Raises Over $120,000 for North Carolina Children's Hospital
The Krispy Kreme Challenge hosted a record 7,500 participants this year and raised $122,000 for the North Carolina Children's Hospital. Participants departed from the NC State University Belltower and had one hour to run two miles to the Krispy Kreme store on Peace Street, consume a dozen doughnuts, and return to the finish line at the Belltower. In order to supply the event, doughnuts were shipped to the Peace Street location from over ten Krispy Kreme stores across the state.
Read more »
Krispy Kreme Challenge Raises $50,000 for North Carolina Children's Hospital
A total of 6,000 runners took to the streets of Raleigh on Saturday, February 6 to take part in the annual Krispy Kreme Challenge. In one hour, brave participants ran two miles to the Krispy Kreme store on Peace Street, consumed a dozen doughnuts and ran an additional two miles back to the NC State campus. The event generated a record $50,000 which will be presented to the North Carolina Children's Hospital. Now in its sixth year, the event was
Read more »
Doughnuts to Dollars: New Fundraiser Supports Children's Hospital
The Krispy Kreme Challenge is NC State's newest tradition and Park Scholars have a hand in making it happen. 2,400 calories. 12 doughnuts. 4 miles. 1 hour. On Saturday, Jan. 27, these numbers transcend mere statistics and become the stuff of legend. And possibly, stomach cramps. That's because Saturday marks the third annual Krispy Kreme Challenge, a day when NC State students, alumni and local runners will race 2 miles from the bell tower to Peace Street's Krispy Kreme, consume
Read more »


text:
|For the mission with the same name, see Karmageddon.
Karmageddon is a side mission in Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. The side mission can be found at the Fire Station in Belleville Park, Staunton Island after completing the orignal Karmageddon mission. The mission is triggered by entering the northern, or left Firetruck (as you look at the firetrucks).
The mission takes the same premise as the Karmageddon mission, with Toni having to create havoc by targeting the residents of Liberty City in the firetruck. The havoc is recorded on a points meter, with the side mission being completed when the meter is filled. The side mission is successfully completed by filling the meter in under four minutes (precisely in 4 minutes and 1 to 5 seconds based on the last digit of the time when you start the mission) or in a faster time.
Unlike the original mission, Toni is not required to destroy the fire truck afterwards, although in order to play the mission again, a new fire truck has to be obtained at the station.
The havoc caused is a points-meter, with points given for:
- Running over pedestrians
- Knocking bikers off their motorcycles
- Flipping cars
- Causing cars to do a 180 degree spin
- Causing cars to do a 360 degree spin
- Destroying vehicles (usually by rolling them onto their roofs)
- Smashing three or four vehicles in a row (separate bonuses for each)
- Sending a vehicle flying in the air
- Causing vehicles to fly into or roll into water and sink
- Rolling cars
The monetary reward for completing the side mission is $20x(Time left (in seconds)). If the player finishes it immediately with cheats, they will get at most $4900 if 245 seconds are left. Some Molotov Cocktails are also unlocked and can be found in the alleyway behind the Belleville Park Fire Station.
- Upon successful completion of this side mission (which can be repeated), any wanted level will disappear, however the player must be careful not to acquire a new wanted level by crashing the fire truck after the mission ends. A good idea is to simply stop once the Mission Passed message appears.
- After completing the mission (successful or fail), the player then has the option of triggering the Firefighter mission in the same truck.
- In order to receive credit for destroying or dunking a vehicle, the fire truck must be within sight. If you continue driving away at full speed, you do not get credit for the vehicle exploding.
- Wanted levels are inevitable during side mission.
- It's very easy to flip or roll the fire truck during this mission, however if it ends up on its side or even on its roof, all is not lost. By alternating forward and reverse and toggling the steering control (the L stick for PS2), it is often possible to make the fire truck roll over back onto its wheels again (being hit by other vehicles like police cars helps, too). Don't bail out unless the truck catches fire or if its on its side, cannot be moved, and Toni is in danger of being busted.
- The Fire Truck that triggers Karmageddon respawns immediately once the side-mission starts, to the level can be replayed over and over. As long as the damage bar is filled within the time limit, Toni receives some amount of cash, ranging from only a few hundred dollars for long missions, to close to $3,000 for quick completion, making this an easy way to generate extra cash.
Video Walkthrough
See Also
- Crash! a similar side mission in Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories.
- Rush! a similar side mission only available on the PS2 version of Vice City Stories.


text:
The Uniondale HS show choir, Rhythm of the Night, dazzled the crowd with their performance. more
Christina Daly | 3/31/17
Herald Holiday Houses [Video]
Houses from all around our coverages areas decorated for the holidays. Is your house in the video? Check it out. more
Christina Daly | 12/22/11
The South Merrick Community Civic Association announced this week that it would meet in the near future with Freeport Village activist Pat Rowen to discuss Freeport's possible construction of a … more
Scott Brinton | 6/13/10 | 3 comments
Menswear designer John Bartlett held another pet adoption event at his namesake store at Charles and 7th Ave. South on April 17. In conjunction with North Shore Animal League America, Bartlett hosted the event with hundreds of pet lovers stopping by to ooh and awww -- and to even give some of the cute dogs and cats new, loving homes. more
Mary Malloy | 4/18/10
Joanne Borgella, who competed on season seven of "American Idol" in 2008, stopped by in Mineola to congratulate East Meadow's Girl Scout Troop No. 1108 on April 1. The cadets … more
Mike Caputo | 4/8/10
On Broadway - A Musical Revue [Video]
Watch the cast in rehearsals for "On Broadaway - A Musical Revue" featuring local talent of all ages from all communities. Experience Broadway-style singing and dancing at a fraction of the cost -- and ten times the fun! Performances will be Sunday, March 14, 2010, 3 p.m. ($10 disount tickets for seniors.) Fri., Mar. 19 and Sat., Mar. 20, 8 p.m.; and an encore matinee on Sun., Mar. 21, 3 p.m. at the Lincoln Orens School Middle School, 150 Trafalgar Blvd., Island Park, NY 11558. For tickets and more information, call (516) 431-3320. more
Mary Malloy | 3/13/10
Hibernians from the Five Towns, Rockville Centre, East Meadow, Bellmore, Merrick, and all over Nassau County marched proudly in the St. Patrick's Parade in Garden City on March 7, 2010. more
Blizzard hits Long Island [Video]
The first blizzard of the season dumped more than a foot of snow in our area Saturday night to Sunday morning, with high winds and heavy, drifting snow accumulating over night. more
Mary Malloy | 12/20/09
Villages celebrate the season [Video]
The villages of East Rockaway and Lynbrook celebrated the arrival of the holidays with winter festivals on the same evening. There was plenty of fun, music and entertainment, with sleigh rides and great … more
Mary Malloy | 12/8/09
The Herald was there for North Shore Animal League's 4th Annual DogCatemy Award Celebrity Gala, presented by Purina ONE. more
Mary Malloy | 11/7/09


text:
Please Note: There are several recipes listed on this page. Please scroll down the page, to find the recipe you are seeking. Thank you!
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more as needed
1 onion, chopped
5 ounces cremini or white button mushrooms, sliced
1⁄2 bell pepper, any color, chopped
1⁄2 to 1 teaspoon reduced-sodium tamari
14 to 16 ounces firm regular tofu, drained
1⁄2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1⁄8 teaspoon cayenne
1⁄8 teaspoon sea salt
1⁄2 cup grated vegan cheese (optional)
Freshly ground pepper
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for 1 minute. Add the peppers and 1⁄2 teaspoon of the tamari and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is slightly golden, about 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, put the tofu in a medium bowl and mash with a potato masher or large fork until crumbly. Add the turmeric, cayenne, salt, and 1⁄4 teaspoon of the tamari. Mash until the tofu resembles the color and texture of cooked scrambled eggs.
Add the tofu to the skillet, adding more oil and a bit more tamari if the mixture seems dry. Cook, stirring frequently, until the scramble is heated through and the tofu is lightly browned on the edges. Scatter the optional vegan cheese over the top and season with pepper to taste. Cover the skillet tightly, remove from the heat, and let the vegan cheese melt for 4 to 5 minutes. Serve immediately.
Blueberry Mini-Biscuits
A friend once told me that I should sell these biscuits so everyone could have a chance to taste them. Better yet, I'm providing the recipe so you can make them at home. They're easy to put together, even if you've never made biscuits before. Crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, they have a delicate flavor that makes a pleasing addition not just to breakfast and brunch, but also to lunch or an evening meal.
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1⁄2 teaspoon sea salt
2 tablespoons toasted wheat germ
2 teaspoons brown sugar
11⁄4 cups unsweetened nondairy milk
1⁄3 cup vegan mayonnaise
1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla extract
11⁄2 cups fresh blueberries
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Oil two twelve-cup mini- muffin tins.
Put the flours, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl and stir with a dry whisk to combine. Add the wheat germ and brown sugar and stir with the whisk to combine.
Put the nondairy milk, vegan mayonnaise, and vanilla extract in a small bowl and whisk briskly until smooth and well combined. Pour into the flour mixture and stir just until incorporated and lump-free. The mixture will be quite thick. Gently fold in the blueberries.
Divide the mixture evenly among the prepared muffin cups. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until the tops are slightly golden.
Put the pan on a wire rack and loosen the sides of each biscuit with a knife. Let cool for about 15 minutes. Carefully remove the biscuits. Serve warm or at room temperature.
PLAIN MINI-BISCUITS: Omit the vanilla extract and blueberries and proceed as directed.
SAVORY HERB MINI-BISCUITS: Omit the vanilla extract and blueberries and add 4 to 5 leaves of fresh sage, minced, and 8 to 9 leaves of fresh basil, minced. Savory Herb Mini-Biscuits pair well with any savory meal.
Cashew French Toast
After numerous failed attempts at making vegan french toast, I was determined to develop a foolproof version. I discovered that cashews make a rich, thick mixture, perfect for dipping the bread into. Voilà! Vegan french toast that rivals the best of conventional recipes. Serve it warm, liberally drizzled with maple syrup.
1 cup raw cashews
1 cup water
1⁄4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1⁄4 teaspoon vanilla extract
5 to 6 slices sprouted whole-grain bread
Maple syrup, for serving
Put the cashews, water, cinnamon, and vanilla extract in a blender and process until smooth. Pour the mixture into a shallow bowl or pie pan. Dip both sides of each slice of bread into the cashew mixture until thoroughly coated, then place them in a single layer on a large, rimmed baking sheet. Use a fork to poke several holes in each slice. Spoon any remaining cashew mixture over the bread. Refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes to allow the bread to completely absorb the cashew mixture.
Put a thin layer of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When it is hot but not smoking, put several slices of the bread in the skillet, cover, and cook until the underside is golden brown and crispy, 3 to 5 minutes. Flip each slice and cook until the other side is golden brown and crispy, adding more oil as needed to prevent sticking. Transfer to a serving plate. Cook the remaining slices the same way. Serve hot, with maple syrup on the side for drizzling.
NOTE: To keep the first batch of french toast warm while the remainder is cooking, transfer it to a baking sheet and put it in an oven preheated to 300 degrees F.
Tomato-Basil Pinwheel
2 to 3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
20 to 30 fresh basil leaves
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1⁄2 teaspoon sea salt
5 or 6 short basil sprigs, for garnish
Place a slice of tomato near the edge of a 10- to 12-inch plate or serving platter. Arrange alternating tomato slices and basil leaves around the perimeter of the platter, overlapping them slightly and spiraling inward to form a pinwheel pattern. Sprinkle with the salt. Drizzle the oil evenly over the top. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate up to 2 hours, until serving time. Garnish with the basil sprigs if desired. Serve immediately.
Fancy Fruit Salad
2 to 3 cups cubed cantaloupe
2 to 3 cups cubed watermelon
1 cup fresh blueberries
Basil sprigs, for garnish
Put the cantaloupe, watermelon, and blueberries in a large bowl and stir gently until thoroughly
combined. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with the basil sprigs if desired.


text:
Talk:Tenderfoot rank
From MeritBadgeDotOrg
m (Talk:Tenderfoot Rank moved to Talk:Tenderfoot rank)
|Line 36:
|Line 36:
[[User:Zpiatek|Zpiatek]] 13:05, February 15, 2012 (EST)
[[User:Zpiatek|Zpiatek]] 13:05, February 15, 2012 (EST)
Revision as of 18:17, April 12, 2017
| Please familiarize yourself with Help:Talk pages before posting on discussion (a.k.a. talk) pages.
— Use headings, indentations; and please, always sign (~~~~) your posts. (See Help:Talk pages for details.)
— Ask your Scouting/advancement-related questions on our forums... several Scouters will be happy to help you.
Whip and fuse rope
Greetings and thanks for the incredible resource that is meritbadge.org. I just created an account and this is my first proposed edit. My son is just getting ready to cross over into Boy Scout and I was just scanning what is ahead. I noticed an error in the anchor tag for item 4a. dealing with whipping and fusing a rope the original links to #Whip_and_Fuse while the actual anchor on the knots page is #Whip_and_Fuse_rope. I know this is minor, but whip and fuse is literally at the bottom of the page. I almost abandoned scrolling to look for it.
I would also love some guidance on whether this kind of feedback is helpful or pesky.
Thanks again for a great resource! —Preceding unsigned comment added by Genr8r (talk • contribs) February 6, 2011. (Please, sign and date your posts on talk pages.)
- Welcome and thanks for the detailed note (what and where), which was really helpful. It's fixed now. Please do not hesitate to continue to note errors about protected (e.g., requirements) pages, so a Sysop can make the corrections. And, of course, feel free to peruse the Help pages. —RWSmith (Bureaucrat), 11:42, February 7, 2011 (EST)
Error in Tenderfoot Worksheet
Hi everyone,
My son just earned his Scout rank and so I was looking to see what the requirements are for Tenderfoot. We've used the worksheets in the past while he was a Cub Scout and thought they were great!
I noticed a problem with the Hiking section of the Online Resources section. They are a copy and paste of the Knots section:
4: Knots:
- Knot Videos: Basics - Basics2 - USScouts Knots - Animated knots - More Animated Knots - Still more
- Other Knot Links: Knots - Sea Scout Knots - Ropers Knots Page - Climbing Knots - Fishing knots - Knots Index
4c: EDGE method
5: Hiking:
- Knot Videos: Basics - Basics2 - USScouts Knots - Animated knots - More Animated Knots - Still more
- Other Knot Links: Knots - Sea Scout Knots - Ropers Knots Page - Climbing Knots - Fishing knots - Knots Index
6. Flag Ceremonies ...
I see that the Second Class Worksheet has a Hiking section and would think that section belongs here as well?
Thanks for the great Wiki!!
Zpiatek 13:05, February 15, 2012 (EST)
Is there a worksheet on here like this one?
Thanks! evrik 17:17, April 12, 2017 (EDT)


text:
GOP advice on Medicare: Attack
Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan say that they welcome a debate about the federal budget and their plans to reform Medicare.
But Republican strategists believe that there is really only one way to win the Medicare message wars: mount a bruising offense and attack Democrats for their own actions surrounding the popular federal health care program for senior citizens.
Story Continued Below
( Also on POLITICO: Mitt tries to explain Medicare stance)
Historically, Republicans lose elections when entitlement reform becomes a central issue in campaigns. But interviews with several Republican strategists this week said that Democrats are far from bulletproof when it comes to this politically explosive terrain.
This year, GOP message-makers say the reduced Medicare spending provisions in President Barack Obama's health care law give the Romney-Ryan ticket an unprecedented opportunity to gain the upper hand on the Medicare argument: by relentlessly slamming the president on the issue, then pivoting back to the economy. (Of course, Democrats are hitting Romney and Republicans just as hard back).
( Also on POLITICO: Obama's first ad on Ryan, Medicare)
"Historically … for Republicans if you can fight Medicare and Social Security to a draw, that's good," said longtime GOP strategist Charlie Black. "But what's changed is the president taking money out of Medicare for current recipients to fund his boondoggle [health care] program."
That argument — that the Affordable Care Act took $716 billion from the Medicare program — is one the Romney-Ryan ticket has been making in the week since Ryan became Romney's running mate.
"We're the ones who are offering a plan to save Medicare, to protect Medicare, to strengthen Medicare," Ryan told Fox News earlier this week. "We're the ones who are not raiding Medicare to pay for Obamacare."
Medicare "is not the ace up the sleeve [for Democrats] that it has been in previous elections," argued Luke Frans, the executive director of the GOP polling firm Resurgent Republic. "We can get it to the point where it's a competitive policy debate."
There is agreement among GOP strategists that delving too far into the policy details surrounding the Ryan plan to convert Medicare into a voucher system in 2023 would be suicidal in the heat of a general election campaign. Romney attempted to put some meat on his budget plan by outlining it on a whiteboard this week, but getting bogged down in a policy debate isn't advisable, they say. The campaign instead plans to contrast its big-picture vision for fiscal responsibility with Obama's irresponsible economic stewardship.
A Romney campaign aide told POLITICO that the campaign invites further debate on Medicare — and that they think it's an argument they can win.
The aide added that voters know Medicare is in serious financial trouble and understand the stakes if the program isn't reformed. Boston plans to highlight how Obama's proposals don't address how to deal with the impending Medicare funding crisis.
In that vein, the Romney campaign went up with an ad just days after the Ryan pick, hitting Obama on the $716 billion figure.
"You paid into Medicare for years: every paycheck. Now, when you need it, Obama has cut $716 billion dollars from Medicare. Why? To pay for Obamacare," the ad says. "The Romney-Ryan plan protects Medicare benefits for today's seniors and strengthens the plan for the next generation."
How the GOP ticket talks about Medicare is vitally important in Florida in particular, a competitive swing state with a high retirement-age population. Ryan is visiting the state for the first time today since he was named to the ticket, and will go to The Villages — billed as the largest retirement community in the world — with his mom.


text:
WALTHAM -- Family, friends, classmates and the larger Waltham community came together in overwhelming fashion Thursday and Friday to celebrate the life of slain Waltham High student Tyler Zanco.
Moody Street traffic was caught at a standstill Thursday afternoon, as those who were close to Zanco lined the sidewalks and filtered into Brasco & Sons Memorial Funeral Home to pay their respects during visiting hours.
Zanco, 17, was fatally shot on March 20 at the Gardencrest Apartments complex on Middlesex Circle. The news of his death shocked the Waltham community, but especially at Waltham High School where he was a senior, months away from his graduation date.
In the last week, Zanco, a four-sport athlete and parishioner, has been remembered by his community for his capturing smile and unwavering loyalty to friends and family. His funeral was held Friday morning at Sacred Heart Church on River Street in Waltham.
Many in attendance were forced to stand, lining the back walls of the church because every pew was full. The church seats about 900 people, according to its website. The majority of those in attendance were Zanco's classmates.
The Rev. Dennis Wheatley, pastor at Sacred Heart, pushed for the attending students to seek advice from parents, coaches, resource officers or teachers if they ever faced a difficult situation in life. Wheatley then turned to the adults and urged them to not only talk to their children, students and athletes, but also to listen to what they had to say; to really take the time to get engaged in their children's lives.
Police allege that Zanco's death was a result of him trying to solve an issue on his own. Zanco attempted to get even with Taylor Poulin, 21, of Newton, who had previously ripped off his cousin, according to a police affidavit. After a fight broke out, Zanco was shot and killed, police said.
Poulin was arrested Wednesday in Maine and will be brought back to Waltham to face charges in connection with Zanco's death. Poulin's alleged accomplice, Domingo Mendes, 22, of Belmont is wanted for murder and is still at large.
Following the service, Zanco was buried at Calvary Chapel Mausoleum in Waltham.
Immediately following Zanco's death, the "Rest in Peace Tyler" fund was established to help the family pay for the services. As of Friday afternoon, more than 500 people had raised about $32,000 in one week.
The Sacred Youth Ministry, the church's teen group, wrote a tribute to Zanco – a member of the 2012 confirmation class – on its website saying the community was with him and his family during this time of tragedy.
"We all know the word tragedy, but there are certain times in life when its definition becomes all too clear and all too real. This is one of them," the website said. "Honor Tyler's memory every day. Honor it by reflecting the care and concern he had for others. Honor it by passing on the kindness he showed to others."
Funeral held for murdered Waltham teenager
WALTHAM -- Family, friends, classmates and the larger Waltham community came together in overwhelming fashion Thursday and Friday to celebrate the life of slain Waltham High student Tyler Zanco.


text:
Becoming one is quick and painless, unlike childbirth.
There have been times in my life where I have relied on a gigantic roll of pretty wrapping paper and sticky bows to complete my wrapping, but those days are long gone now.
There is a cheaper alternative to organizing than just buying new items. Challenge your creativity and realize that you can organize your home in a frugal way, rather than emptying your wallet. Here are a few inexpensive alternatives.
All of the packing, getting to our destination, kids not sleeping in their beds, getting lost, having trouble finding a hotel to stay in- let's face it, vacations can evoke nightmares for mothers. Learn how to reduce family vacation stress!
Summer is just around the corner and with the warmer weather comes many preparations in both the interior and the exterior of the home.
How does one make spring cleaning more manageable? MomAdvice answers how to make spring cleaning part of your everyday routine rather then the once a year (and often painful) deep cleaning.
With the arrival of your new baby, the nursery quickly becomes the most important room in the house. Amanda shows us how to keep the sanity in this very special place.
Since the living room is a room used most frequently in most homes, it is a room that requires serious organization. MomAdvice offers suggestions on organizing and making your living room livable.
Wouldn't it be nice to have gleaming countertops free of clutter? How about being able to find that one spice that you need when cooking? This article helps make your kitchen the kitchen you always dreamed of.
Home offices can harbor a load of clutter. MomAdvice offers tips on how to keep your home office organized and tame those paper tigers with easy step-by-step directions.
Amy shares her tips for how she tackles menial tasks like bill paying and laundry with day-by-day instructions on getting everything done and still managing to spend time with her family and friends.
Moving can be a stressful and expensive endeavor. Learn what you can do to minimize the risk and save money. Be sure to print out our free moving checklist!


text:
This is what life is like when you don't do things the easy way.
Posted in: Engrish, Vietnam.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Name *
Email *
Notify me of follow-up comments by email.
Notify me of new posts by email.
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
© 2019 Dennie Hoopingarner. All rights reserved.
A WordPress theme by Ravi Varma


text:
Note that although the calendar currently is filtered, the calendar subscription will be unfiltered.
Please follow these instructions to subscribe to the calendar in Outlook on Windows:
- Copy the calendar link.
- Switch to the calendar view in Outlook.
- Right click My calendars (or Other calendars), select Add calendar, select From Internet.
- In the dialogue that pops up, paste the calendar link.
- Approve the subscription.
The calendar is now available in Outlook. Check the checkbox besides the new calendar to view it.
For Safari on Mac, read these instructions.
In other calendar applications, copy the link and then follow the appropriate procedure.
String Math 2019 Public Lectures: Cosmos and Mathematics
Public lectures held in connection to the conference String Math 2019 at Uppsala University on the topic: "Cosmos and Mathematics".
Learning to live with a lively planet: the renewal of the university's mission in the era of climate change
This lecture will reflect on the history, present reality and possible future of the western research university. It will argue that a key task of the university this century will be to enable a profound civilisational shift to living with a planet that is newly alive to us.