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Amid a worsening hunger crisis in the Horn of Africa, WFP is moving quickly to feed 11.5 million people across the region. Airlifts have begun delivering food to the Somalia capital of Mogadishu and areas in the country's famine-hit south, while WFP ramps up support for refugees in Kenya and Ethiopia.
NAIROBI—The second flight in the ongoing airlift to Mogadishu arrived on Friday carrying more specialised food products for small children. Over 28 metric tons of this fortified peanut paste called "Supplementary Plumpy" has been flown into Mogadishu so far out of a total 100 metric tons intended for some 35,000 malnourished children.
WFP is supplying cooked meals to around 85,000 people per day in the war-ravaged Somali capital, in the face of daunting security challenges. WFP is scaling up its operations to feed 1.5 million drought-affected people regions of the country including Mogadishu, Central Somalia, Somaliland and Puntland.
A stream of refugees
A stream of refugees continues to pour out of Somalia's southern borders into neighbouring Ethiopia and Kenya. On average an estimated 1,300 people are arriving every day at Kenya's Dadaab refugee camp, many of them severely malnourished.
New arrivals to the camp receive high-energy biscuits to satisfy their nutritional needs for a day, in addition to a three-week ration of food. Small children and pregnant mothers are also receiving specialised food products tailored to their needs.
WFP is providing food assistance to about 498,000 refugees in Kenya, out of a total 1.6 million people receiving food around the country. The Kenyan government is feeding an additional 800,000 people.
As the drought wears on, the number of people who will be in need of food assistance is expected to rise to 3.2 million people by August.
The view from Ethiopia
Refugees continue crossing the border into Ethiopia as well, though their numbers have fallen in weeks from 2,000 per day to less than 1,000. However malnutrition rates remain very high among new arrivals.
Some 50 per cent of children under five arrive at Dolo Ado suffering from acute malnutrition. WFP has begun distributing high-energy biscuits to all refugees arriving at the camp while they wait to be registered for food distributions.
In the coming weeks, WFP plans to increase its assistance to over 3.5 million people in drought-affected regions of the country.


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Large fishhook carving. Half wood, half bone. Whaletail.
Maori design fishhook bone carving. Half wood, half bone.
Maui fished up the North Island of New Zealand... A good luck charm giving peace, prosperity, good luck and good health... For the Maori, the fish hook was very important. "Kai moana", food from the sea... the main source of protein but also important for trade...
Designs were developed to suit every fishing expedition, whether it was to catch the in-shore kahawai or the deep-water hapuku. The shark hooks, for example, had a wooden shaft and a bone barb.
The fishhook carvings represents peace, prosperity, good luck and good health; also safe travel, especially over water.

subset: commoncrawl


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The full, interactive NRHP database is temporarily unavailable.
UPDATE: The Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office has moved. More details below.
For now, you can use this temporary listing from the database. Note: This is not a fully interactive version. It is a long page listing all properties, organized by county, with links to property details.
If you need more information or assistance, please read on.
The Minnesota National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) database is undergoing maintenance to replace underlying outmoded technology. As a result, the fully searchable, interactive database is temporarily unavailable. We regret the inconvenience.
If you need additional access to the material contained in the Minnesota NRHP database while it is down, please contact the Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), which has moved to:
State Historic Preservation Office
50 Sherburne Avenue, Suite 203
St. Paul, MN 55155
Google Map
What is the National Register of Historic Places?
More than 1,500 Minnesota listings, encompassing over 6,000 properties from all counties in the state, can be found on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), the nation's official list of properties deemed worthy of preservation. In Minnesota, the National Register program is administered by:
State Historic Preservation Office
50 Sherburne Avenue, Suite 203
St. Paul, MN 55155
Google Map
How are properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places?
The process for listing a property on the National Register is rigorous. It begins with research to establish the property's significance. This information is recorded on a nomination form, reviewed by State Historic Preservation Office staff and presented to a State Review Board, a volunteer group of citizens and professionals with expertise in history, architectural history, architecture, and archaeology. If the board concurs that the nominated property meets National Register criteria (See below), the nomination is sent to the State Historic Preservation Officer for signature and then to the Keeper of the Register at the National Park Service in Washington, D.C., for final review, approval, and placement on the National Register.
Where can I find more information about Minnesota properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places?
National Register files for Minnesota properties are located in the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).
What is the best source of information about the National Register of Historic Places?
The searchable National Register database contains over 7,000 entries for Minnesota properties. The properties fall into two categories: approximately 1,500 that are individually listed on the Register and approximately 5,700 properties that are located within historic districts that are listed on the National Register. The database is updated with new listings or corrected or expanded data on a regular basis. All National Register determinations, including contributing/noncontributing status within historic districts, are subject to change. All National Register determinations, including contributing/noncontributing status within historic districts, are subject to change. The Statewide Inventory at the Minnesota Historic Preservation Office contains the only accurate and up-to-date information about all National Register listings.
Are the properties featured on this site open to the public?
Some of the properties are in public ownership or are administered as historic sites open to visitors. The majority, however, are privately owned and are not open to the public.
National Register Criteria
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the nation's cultural resources worthy of preservation. Properties listed in the Register include districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are significant in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, and culture and which possess integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. The National Register criteria for evaluating the significance of properties were developed to recognize all people who made a contribution to the country's history. Cultural Resources are determined significant if they:
A) are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history;
B) are associated with the lives of significant persons;
C) embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or represent the work of a master; or possess high artistic values, or represent a significant concentration of resources whose individual components are united historically by function or plan; or
D) have yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history.
Criteria Considerations
Ordinarily cemeteries, birthplaces, or graves of historical figures, properties owned by religious institutions or used for religious purposes, structures that have been moved from their original locations, reconstructed historical buildings, properties primarily commemorative in nature, and properties that have achieved significance within the past 50 years shall not be considered eligible for the National Register. However, such properties will qualify if they are integral parts of districts that do meet the criteria or if they fall within one of the following categories:
- A religious property deriving primary significance from architectural or artistic distinction or historical importance; or
- A building or structure removed from its original location but which is significant primarily for architectural value, or which is the surviving structure most importantly associated with a historic person or event; or
- A birthplace or grave of a historical figure of outstanding importance if there is no appropriate site or building directly associated with his/her productive life; or
- A cemetery that derives its primary significance from graves of persons of transcendent importance, from age, from distinctive design features, or from association with historic events; or
- A reconstructed building, when accurately executed in a suitable environment and presented in a dignified manner as part of a restoration master plan, and when no other building or structure with the same association has survived; or
- A property primarily commemorative in intent if design, age, tradition, or symbolic value has invested it with its own exceptional significance; or
- A property achieving significance within the past 50 years if it is of exceptional significance.


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ABC News Pre-Election Poll #1, October 1998 (ICPSR 2647)
Version Date: Mar 18, 1999 View help for published
Principal Investigator(s): View help for Principal Investigator(s)
ABC News
Version V1
Summary View help for Summary
This special topic poll, fielded October 8-11, 1998, sought respondents' views on the upcoming November 2, 1998, congressional elections. Respondents were asked for their opinions of President Bill Clinton and his handling of the presidency and foreign affairs, as well as their views on the United States Congress and the state of the nation's economy. Those queried were asked which party they intended to cast their votes for in the congressional elections, which party they felt was better equipped to handle our nation's problems, and how likely it was that they would vote in November. Given what respondents knew about the Monica Lewinsky issue, they were asked for their opinions on the future of Clinton's second term. They were also asked for their views on the United States House of Representatives' recent vote to hold hearings into whether Clinton should be impeached, how their congressional representative's stance on that issue had influenced their electoral decisions, and how concerned they were with Clinton's behavior. Background information on respondents includes age, sex, race, education, political party, political orientation, voter registration and participation history, and family income.
Citation View help for Citation
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Data Collection Notes View help for Data Collection Notes
(1) The data are provided as an SPSS portable file. (2) This collection has not been processed by ICPSR staff. ICPSR is distributing the data and documentation for this collection in essentially the same form in which they were received. When appropriate, hardcopy documentation has been converted to machine-readable form and variables have been recoded to ensure respondents' anonymity. (3) The codebook is provided as a Portable Document Format (PDF) file. The PDF file format was developed by Adobe Systems Incorporated and can be accessed using PDF reader software, such as the Adobe Acrobat Reader. Information on how to obtain a copy of the Acrobat Reader is provided through the ICPSR Website on the Internet.
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- ABC News. ABC NEWS PRE-ELECTION POLL #1, OCTOBER 1998. ICPSR version. Horsham, PA: Chilton Research Services [producer], 1998. Ann Arbor, MI: Inter-university Consortium for Political and Social Research [distributor], 1999. http://doi.org/10.3886/ICPSR02647.v1
Data in this collection are available only to users at ICPSR member institutions.
This study is provided by ICPSR. ICPSR provides leadership and training in data access, curation, and methods of analysis for a diverse and expanding social science research community.


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What's the True Price of Gas?
How much do we really pay for a gallon of gas? The costs extend beyond what we pay at the pump.
With gas above $4 a gallon in many places, the Obama administration last week announced that it would tap the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to increase supply and ease prices. But the price we pay for gas already hides the real cost of of oil— costs we pay, not at the pump, but with our own health.
In this video, the Center for Investigative Reporting calculates the "external costs" of gasoline use in the U.S. to show us the true price of cheap gas.
For advice about life after graduation, students at Worcester Polytechnic wanted to hear from peak oil scholar Richard Heinberg instead of Exxon's CEO. Here's what he told them.


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anxiety, birding, crying, depression, hormones, knitting, photography, productivity, work, worry
I've had about 4 months of incredibly good functioning, generally decent mood stability, and high productivity. It's the longest I've felt so well in years, but it seems to be slipping.
We've just passed the autumnal equinox. The days are getting shorter, which always seems to bring me down. Since getting home after the car troubles, the weather has been nothing but gray and rainy, and it's suddenly dark when I wake up in the morning. If you want to call it waking up – it's more like a zombie state.
My stress level is up: I have to apply for jobs, I've got deadlines galore, I need to deal with disposing of the dead car, and my usual motivation is absent. I'm just plain tired a lot, but can't get to sleep any earlier. I felt genuinely down for the first time in quite awhile yesterday and then caught myself obsessing over an error I'd made – ruminating – which I'd managed to avoid doing for months. It made me worry all the more. Today I haven't been able to make myself do much work, I see huge flaws in everything I do manage to accomplish, I'm irritable and reactive, easily overwhelmed, and even cried a bit.
Nothing shows you how good the good stuff really is like slipping back down the slope. This summer, part of how I managed so well was cutting back and simplifying things. It really helped to stop expecting myself to do activities that were basically unnecessary. But that too is a slippery slope. At this point, it's been months since I picked up my knitting or did anything with photography. I really need a new winter hat because I lost mine (again) last year, but I tried to swatch a pattern out, realized it wasn't going to work with the chosen yarn, and haven't touched the stuff since. I miss doing these things, but can't get up the motivation to do them – and loss of interest in one's usual pursuits is a classic sign of depression.
Since I've finished DBT, it's been harder for me to remember to maintain mindfulness practice. I haven't been going to yoga either, although it's definitely very helpful for me. It just became too hard to schedule and it's not cheap to take classes, but I'm also not keeping at it without classes to attend. I haven't been getting as much exercise, largely because there are only so many hours in the day and I've been exhausted. It seems as though I loosened my grip on a whole lot of things that are now starting to drift out of reach, things that were good for me and that I enjoyed.
Most of what has taken their place has been work, food, and TV (Netflix, actually). The TV-watching habit has been going on for awhile; it's basically my most effective means of shutting down my brain in the evenings. Since getting on board with mindfulness, I don't do other things while watching TV as much as I used to, because that's also counter-productive to the winding-down goal – hence not knitting, for example. The food part is generally positive; cooking from scratch with fresh ingredients takes time, and we have been eating well. I do like to cook when I don't feel pressured about it, but on the down side, it often really does take a lot of time, leaving very few waking hours to use any other way.
And then there's work. I was loving it for awhile there, doing really well with stuff, and very productive. It was like I had my brain back after an extended hiatus. A couple days' hiccup in productivity shouldn't be a matter for concern, but I fear there's more to come. I suddenly don't feel like I should be applying for jobs, but I must, and I haven't been able to force myself to work on the applications. It all adds up to a not-so-good outlook.
I hope against hope that this is a hormonal flutter and will pass before long. Maybe I'll start remembering to use my light box to help fight the darkening days. Things had been so good that I convinced myself that they just might stay that way. Silly me. I should know better.
Update: Things have improved since this post was composed – still tired and stressed, but more or less doing OK.


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Cool-er e-book reader to gain 3G, Wi-FI models
Mid-2010 launch
The Cool-er e-book viewer is about to get even cooler, with manufacturer Interead planning to release 3G and Wi-Fi models.
A "next generation of connected Cool-er e-readers" will be available from mid-2010, the firm said, with the device's 3G connection resulting from Interead's golden handshake with US network carrier AT&T.
Interead's announcement suggests that it is planning to launch one Wi-Fi Cool-er and a separate 3G model, though we hope one sporting both wireless technologies will be available.
Since AT&T is providing the 3G connection, only North American users will be able to take advantage. However, Interead mentioned that TV shopping channel QVC will be selling the next-generation Cool-ers – so there is always hope that QVC UK will be in on the deal.
In related news, Interead has signed a deal with firm NewspaperDirect to make over 1300 newspapers and magazines available to Cool-er devices.
Specific launch dates and prices for the new Cool-er models haven't been announced. ®
E-book Reader reviews
Interead Cool-er
iRiver Story
Sony Reader PRS-300 Pocket Edition
Sony Reader PRS-600 Touch Edition
Bookeen Cybook Opus


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SAVANNAH - About 32 workers were busy constructing the new arched bridge along the Diamond Causeway in Savannah to Skidaway Island Thursday after about a six-month delay.
About 80 feet above the shimmering surface of the intracoastal waterway, workers on the main span installed rebar to prepare the structure to be covered in concrete.
Work resumed early last week after coming to a halt in early August when it was discovered that some girders put in place did not meet design requirements.
United Contractors project manager Donald Anderson said the major issues have been resolved, and the bridge is expected to be open to traffic in June.
The bridge initially was scheduled to be open to traffic by Nov. 30, and the contractor has been paying $1,000 a day in damages since then for failing to meet the deadline.
To address some of the issues, revisions had to be made to the original plans, including the use of lightweight concrete in some areas and a change of the span's profile.
The approved changes will not impact the quality of the bridge, and it will maintain its original design speed of 55 mph, said Jill Nagel, department of transportation spokeswoman.
The $22.5 million arched bridge is being built to replace the causeway's 40-year-old drawbridge, which breaks down and is difficult to repair. Ground was broken for the project in the summer of 2010.
Shari Haldeman, general manager of Skidaway's The Landings Association, said the sooner residents no longer have to navigate through a construction zone, the better.
"We're delighted to see it get back on track," she said.


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The following article is the first in a series of articles to help students and professionals maintain a positive attitude through positive thought process. This series will be authored by myself and Susan Hanshaw, inspirational teacher, coach and speaker. This article, written by Susan Hanshaw, gives steps you can take to make positive thinking a method to achieve happiness and relieve stress. Thank you Susan!
How do you maintain a constant positive thought process without letting the stresses of the outside world interfere?
Positive thinking really can become a habit if you work on it. It just takes practice. There are many things you can do to practice:
- Begin every day with some kind of practice that reminds you that whatever you manifest in your life begins as a thought in your mind. Your create your life through what you think about. Make a habit several times throughout the day to remind yourself by bringing this idea to your awareness.
- Be aware of your thoughts and the control that you have over them. If you catch yourself thinking negatively, stop the thought and replace it with a positive one.
- Approach your world from a place of gratitude. Focus as much as possible on all the things you have to be grateful about. It's impossible to experience a negative thought while you are dwelling in gratitude.
- Develop a strong faith in the good of the Universe. Expect that all your needs will be met and that you have absolutely nothing to worry about.
- Think of your mind as a sacred place and protect it. Don't allow yourself to participate in negative energy. Claim your power to change or remove yourself from negative environments.
- Look for beauty in everything you encounter.
- Think of your experience of life like starring in a movie that takes place in your mind. If you want to experience happiness, think happy thoughts. If you want to be miserable, fill your mind with negative thoughts.
Remember that you don't have to put up with the negative thoughts that may seem to naturally dart through your mind. They may continue to show up uninvited, but that doesn't mean you have to let them in the door to visit.
Thank you for visiting. Here's to a life of richness!
Susan Hanshaw
innerarchitect.wordpress.com ; innerarchitect.com


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Want the iPhone 6s' processor and features in a smaller frame? The iPhone SE is for you. iPhone SE brings the power of the 6s with the footprint of the 5s' 4-inch screen. GameStop's refurbished iPhone SE comes with a power adaptor, sync/charging cable, and new Ear Buds.
Do you have old devices laying around? Sell them for cash at GameStop. Check the value of your devices on the GameStop App.
Want a new console or game, but your entertainment funds are running a little low? Now you can trade in your old iPhone for cash or credit toward the games, systems and accessories you've been holding out for! Find out how much your old iPhone® or Android phone is worth.
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OTOH, I'd say that I do not water outside, but I wash my car and water my tomatoes. Does that count?
Bottom Line: Is water still a precious resource when we use it for non-native vegetation?
Why do we water outdoors? We farm.
I answered "yes" to the poll because I do have some landscaping at the home we just purchased a few months ago. We have a small patch of lawn in the front and a small one in the back, and then the rest are drought tolerant plants. I also have some veggies planted in pots. I water the veggies by hand and then there is a drip system that covers all the plants. There are sprinklers for the zones that are lawn, but I have yet to turn these zones on. I'm planning on letting my lawn die and then remove it, and replace it with drought tolerant ground cover/native plants in the fall. Even then, I still will technically be watering some outdoors.
I water potted tomatoes & vegetables & some geraniums my landlady planted on the bank. I offered to dig them up and replant with natives, but that left her a bit stricken and she said no. I water them judiciously and have mulched them. I answered yes, but by those standards, I guess not.
I also water veggies and new starts/transplants by hand a small amount, and mulch heavily. I have plans to soon do this by rainwater harvest.
I see a pattern. Shoulda asked "do you waste water outside" vs "do you use it wisely"? OTOH, prices would render that moral question irrelevant! Thanks for the info!


text: Dog owners, you've seen that look before. Pure joy. But what is Buddy most excited about? Just the sight of Kristin Johnston and her 8-year-old son Zake? The chance to be outside on a nice, not-too-cold winter day? The anticipation of a romp down the hill with the sled? All of the above? Or something else?--Buddy loves keep-away. Buddy the dog loves the snow. He loves being outside. He loves his family, which includes Kristin Johnston of East Palestine and her 8-year-old son Zake. At just over a year old, he also loves being a little ornery. His main goal in these photos was to take Kristin's hat and play keep-away. He also enjoyed a run down the hill with the sledders. Morning Journal/Patti Schaeffer


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24th March 2017
Miriam Heimberg – from Grayling's office in Frankfurt, Germany, shares her impressions from the CeBit Rock the Blog conference.
The Rock the Blog conference is part of the CeBIT fair in Hanover and took place for the third time. This international event is dedicated to digital business. It is also a great networking opportunity not only for bloggers but also for companies and agencies. So of course, Grayling Germany could not miss it!
In many panel discussions and presentations, the key issues of digital marketing was discussed. Digital communication specialists and business experts focused on the topic of blogs and influencer communication and examined questions such as, why brands should be working with influencers? Which blog suits my brand best? How do I connect with online communities? Which social media channels are suitable for my needs?
As we are all aware, blogger and influencer communication is gaining in importance. Many industry experts point out, how influencers are an essential part of digital brand communication today. It is therefore no surprise, that influencer engagement and the collaborations between agencies and bloggers have become increasingly professional and standardised. However, in comparison to traditional media such as print, TV and radio, online communication and especially influencer relations are new concepts and a lot is still to be learned. Which according to participating specialized attorney Thomas Schwenke, also includes legal aspects.
At the Rock the Blog conference, we were able to gain insights into the field of digital marketing and listened to inspiring best practice examples. Both bloggers and agencies gave helpful tips on how to work together and approach each other. Many presentations focused on authenticity, finding the right measure of organic and paid content. If a blogger is perceived as too sponsored, readers tend to lose interest. Especially in the case of long-term relations between bloggers and brands the balance between sponsored and original content needs to be considered carefully.
Since influencer marketing is a relatively new topic, ways of measuring its success and tracking its progress are still being developed, however already today data analysis and technical reporting are crucial elements for any evaluation. An influencer's reach, number of followers and engagement rates are crucial factors in any collaboration.
To sum up, the complex interplay between meaningful numbers, finding the most suitable blog for your brand and its quality are key factors for successful blogger relations to achieve a long-term effect and create attention for your brand.
Grayling Team
15th November 2016
Will Kunkel, Executive Vice President for Creative and Content in Grayling New York, on the final of our #7for17 trends, Live and Uncut'Timing is everything' has been a favorite line to many but...Read More
8th November 2016
Danica Ross, Grayling San Francisco US Executive Vice President, on how brands can guide themselves through the 'the new space race' – part of our #7for17 trends series.In an era where brands...Read More
3rd November 2016
Russell Patten, Chair of Grayling's European Public Affairs practice, looks at one of the major political trends as part of our #7for17 series. It's been a turbulent year in politics, with the...Read More


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What's inside? Here are the questions answered in today's reader mailbag, boiled down to five word summaries. Click on the number to jump straight down to the question.
1. Trading cars before a move
2. Handling an old retirement account
3. State income tax after leaving
4. Student loan repayment plan
5. Unexpected job offer
6. Job change and unfinished mortgage
7. Reconnecting
8. 401(k) loan for debt?
9. Which insurance policies?
10. Best books of 2011
Yesterday, my wife and I took a long walk in the park with our kids. The grass was green and there were people jogging and riding their bikes.
We stopped at the playground and played for an hour. Several other kids joined them at various points.
This is mid-January in Iowa, remember.
Q1: Trading cars before a move
In May 2011, I bought a 2008 Certified GMC Acadia for $28,5000. Currently we are paying 2.5% APR loan, a very comfortable $400 monthly payment, and owe $16,000. The problem is my husband just received news we are moving to Italy. Italy has small roads, lots of mopeds, and tiny parking spots. A SUV that has a lot of blind spots is not ideal when it comes to driving in traffic, mountain areas, or parallel parking in the city. Not to mention the likelihood of accidents and the high cost of repairs in not good. I also have a child and back issues. So considering all of this I am thinking about trade-in my GMC Acadia for a BMW X3 or something similar. My car is on only worth around $23,000. A total depreciation of $5,500 in 8 months. We do not have time to private sell, only about a month til we ship the vehicle. Am I making a huge mistake trading in the car? Can I ask the finance company to finance the other car, and will the dealership trade in a more expensive car for a cheaper one?
– Kelsey
I agree that large SUV is really not a good choice in that environment. If I were in your situation, I would probably sell the Acadia.
Your challenge, of course, is the short time frame. If I were you, I would list the vehicle on Craigslist immediately for something approaching the list value of the car. We purchased our car on Craigslist and were able to go from listing to completed purchase in about two weeks, so you do have time for that.
If that doesn't work for you, your best option is probably to trade in the car. You're much more likely to get some value approximating the trade-in value in the United States rather than in Europe, so I would trade in the car for something smaller before I left. If you downgrade enough, you should be able to make the trade-in work without incurring a big lump sum expense.
Q2: Handling an old retirement account
My husband had a retirement account for his post-doc that ended in march. It was in a TIAA-CREF account. We are no longer making contributions to it and am wondering what to do with it. We will be leaving the country in 2012 and will be working in a different economic structure, therefore, we don't know our future regarding coming back to the states or staying out. I think the balance last we checked was around $8000. We also have a state fund with maybe $300 or something in it. I honestly have no idea how these things work and the money is sitting. What would you advise us to do?
Our finances are simple: $1800 monthly income, about $1200-$1300 expenses, $6000 in student loan debt at 1.65%. no other debt/expenses.
– Monica
I would leave the money for the time being. When you reach an appropriate retirement age, you can withdraw it as normal income in the United States.
The other option would be to empty it out right now, but you're going to take a tax penalty for doing so. From what you've described, there really isn't any sort of rollover option that would provide you any real benefit.
I would just leave the money there and consider it a start on your retirement. You'll be able to get the money out of it wherever you're at.
Monica had a follow-up question.
Q3: State income tax after leaving
Leaving the country, we are required to pay income taxes. I'm aware of the $92000 income limit on federal tax exclusion on foreign income. Virginia (where we live, we rent) requires tax on all income, regardless. This is what I know. However, we will be leaving and probably will forward mail to my parents (who live in VA). Would you happen to know how this works? We don't own property and won't rent so technically we aren't residents anymore. Does that mean we still need to pay VA taxes?
– Monica
In order to maintain U.S. citizenship, you have to continue to file federal income taxes each year, and you'll have the income tax exclusion you mentioned.
However, it is often very difficult to get rid of your "tax domicile" status in states once you move abroad. You will need to remove all evidence of your residence in the state, including voter registration, addresses, your driver's license, and so on.
If I were you, I would consult a Virginia tax attorney to help with this process. The cost of it will be more than made up by the taxes you'll save by doing this correctly.
Q4: Student loan repayment plan
I'm a 25 year old college graduate that took out $29,500 in student loans (no credit card debt). In 28 months of repayment, I've gotten my outstanding balance down to $17,925. I'm fortunate enough to be able to afford my payments and even have some money left over to eat and have fun, but I want to start paying down this debt aggressively, and I'd like some help gaming the system. I've been running some numbers, but I'd appreciate getting them double checked by someone who knows a bit more than I do about the subject.
Now for the numbers (rounded to the nearest $5):
$3,545 @ 4%
$9,790 @ 4.538% (weighted average)
$3,180 @ 6.55%
$1,410 @ 2.625%
My current minimum payments are $277.53 and I've decided I can pay an additional $300 every month (which I've been applying to the loan with the highest interest rate). No matter what my minimum payment becomes, I'm going to continue paying $577.53 per month and applying the excess to principle.
The last three loans I listed are serviced by the same company and I'm eligible for an income contingent loan repayment option that would cut my total minimum payment to $173.40 (and possibly extend the repayment term up to 25 years).This seems to be the best option to me because what I didn't tell you is that I'm planning on applying to graduate school in fall 2012 and will (hopefully) begin school again before my loans are fully repaid (in which case the lower monthly payment will be really helpful). Or should I consider consolidating all my loans and just pay that down aggressively.
Lastly, is there any way I could get in trouble for what I'm trying to do? I can't imagine that I would, but I don't want to get blind-sided by something I can't imagine.
– Lily
You should not consolidate your loans into a loan with a higher interest rate than any of the loans you consolidated. So, for example, unless the consolidation offer is less than or equal to 2.625%, I wouldn't consolidate that bottom loan.
The reason for this is that the higher your interest rate, the more you're going to pay over time to that financial institution in pure interest. You want to do what you can to minimize that interest.
If you're not sure you're going to be able to cover the payments in graduate school, save that additional $300 a month for now and use it to have a healthy emergency fund.
No, you're not going to get in trouble for any sort of consolidation that you do.
Q5: Unexpected job offer
I have been at my current job for 6 months and I love it, but the pay is not great but I knew that going in and is enough to support my family especially when my wife finishes nursing school.
Recently though I have been approached by 2 separate companies about working on the private side in the same field for considerably more money. These jobs would require a few more hours and less flexibility. I was not searching for the jobs and had no idea before hand that they were available. They both would have me doing almost the exactly the same things in the same area.
If the money was not a good bit better I would not consider them because I am happy but that kind of pay increase would make a difference. MY main hesitation is I have only been here 6 months and don't want to burn bridges because the new jobs would interact highly with the people I work with now.
Should I pursue these offers or stay? I would hate to leave and regret it if there is something I do not like. I would also hate to stay and wonder what if.
– Annie
You never have to burn bridges when you leave one position for an obviously better position. If you're open and candid about your reasons for changing positions, virtually all rational people will understand. If you leave in a way that makes the transition easy for your previous employer, that's even better.
That doesn't answer the question of whether the grass is greener on the other side of the fence, though. If you have enough to support your family, is the additional money worth the risk of having a worse job environment?
I can't answer that question for you, but if I were in your shoes, I would lean toward sticking with the good thing.
Q6: Job change and unfinished mortgage
I'm soon to begin the final semester of my Master's degree program in Public Administration. With this goal nearly accomplished, I (along with my wife) am facing a difficult decision in looking for a new job. I am interested in entering the field of city management upon graduation. Initially, this change is likely to force us to move to a smaller, more rural community. We currently live in a suburb of the Twin Cities metro area. While I'm not so concerned about the culture change, I do worry about the housing situation in potentially having to continue paying the mortgage for our current property while also either renting or purchasing a home in a new area. Is there any advice you can give on making such a transition given the current housing market? Would we be wise to try to find renters for our current home or put it on the market as soon as we know where and when we may be moving?
– Ron
I would put it on the market now, actually. List it for the price you would like to get, then gradually lower it as your expected moving date nears.
If you get it sold for the price you want, just move into an apartment for the remainder of your stay in the Twin Cities. It will have been worth it because of the extra money made from the sale and the fewer months spent paying interest on your mortgage.
Also, the longer it's on the market, the more likely you are to simply find a buyer, which can be difficult in the current housing market.
Q7: Reconnecting
Is there really value in reconnecting with people you haven't seen in a long time? I recently got an email from someone I used to work with but haven't seen in ten years. She's coming through town in a few weeks and wants to know if we can have lunch somewhere. I'm trying to figure out if this is even worth my time for my career. Any thoughts?
– Lindsay
If you have no interest in seeing this person beyond a questionable amount of career improvement, it's probably not worth the time. You'd be better off spending your lunch shoring up a connection you actually value than this one.
Having said that, there is value in maintaining professional connections, even ones that don't seem to be specifically beneficial to you at the moment.
I'd ask myself if there was something better I could genuinely do for my career during that lunch than meeting with the old . If there is, I'd do that. If not, I'd meet that person for lunch.
Q8: 401(k) loan for debt?
I hope you have time to answer this question. Here's the info: I have some credit card debt. $2500 on one card with 10% interest and $2000 on another card with 8.9% interest.
I am considering taking a loan from my 401K of $2500 to pay off the one credit card. Then I would concentrate on the other one, making $500 payments per month to pay it off.
The 401K loan would be for 6 months. The interest would be $67 and the fee to take out the loan would be $100. The payments would be automatically deducted from my paycheck.
I have $1400 in a savings account and approximately $100,000 in my 401K and IRA.
Part of me thinks I should take the money out of savings, pay down the smaller amount and keep paying monthly until it's paid off and then focus on paying the other one and NOT take the loan.
– Elizabeth
I would not take out the loan. 401(k) loans work okay if everything goes perfectly, but even in that case, you're still borrowing money to pay off other borrowed money. You're not really getting ahead.
If it doesn't go perfectly, the drawbacks can be pretty bad. The interest you paid already is lost. The loan is taxed as normal income, there's a 10% penalty that you have to pay to the IRS. That's far worse than the small amount of interest you're saving.
If I were you, I would keep at least $1,000 in savings, use the extra $400 to pay down the loans, and just focus your energy on wiping them out through small steps and good choices.
Q9: Which insurance policies?
I have recently (November 2011) transitioned from a full-time position to three part-time (online) positions in order to allow me more flexibility (while I complete my doctoral dissertation). My wife is stay-at-home mother to our (almost) six children. We expect to remain in this situation for up to 6 months. Each of the current income streams are considered part-time employment (W2; not 1099). None come with benefits.
I'm comfortable with not contributing to any retirement plan during this short-term situation (particularly since its a 40% pay-cut for the short term). My concerns and inquiry relate to insurance coverage.
We currently have health insurance in the form of a HSA account with a HDHP. That was/is separate from my employer. We lose vision/dental coverage and I'm comfortable with that for the short-term. Life insurance plan (both the base employer-provided plan and the additional rider) are gone (at least I assume they are). Disability insurance plan is gone. I do have a liability policy that was/is separate from my employer but it specifically notes that it is secondary to the policy previously provided by my employer.
During these next 6 months, what sorts of policies should I be getting?
– Robbie
If you have six children, you absolutely need life insurance coverage. You need a term policy that will take care of those six kids in the event that something happens to you. This is without question. Get this now and don't relinquish it even after you're employed.
The other plans are more or less connected to the actual state of your finances at the moment. I'm not clear as to whether you're going to be struggling to keep your head above water during this period or if you're spending far less than you earn. If you're cutting it close, the one I'd consider most strongly would be the disability plan.
The biggest thing you need to be concerned about is making sure those kids are protected if something disastrous happens to you. Life insurance is the 800 pound gorilla here.
Q10: Best books of 2011
Over the past few years, you've often made a top ten list of the books you've read from the previous year. Did I miss it or did you make one for 2011?
– Charlie
I did make such a list for 2011, but I posted the list over at that focuses on my other writing endeavors and non-personal finance stuff.
Anyway, here's the list. It's the ten books I read that were actually published in 2011 that I have a desire to read again at some point. Pretty simple, huh?
by Walter Isaacson
by Haruki Murakami
by Joshua Foer
by Neal Stephenson
by Ernest Cline
by James Gleick
by James Andrew Miller and Tom Shales
by George R. R. Martin
by Joan Didion
by Steven Levy
Got any questions? Email them to me or leave them in the comments and I'll attempt to answer them in a future mailbag (which, by way of full disclosure, may also get re-posted on other websites that pick up my blog). However, I do receive hundreds of questions per week, so I may not necessarily be able to answer yours.


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A really HUGE deal actually because it's about something that only a few people know because that's the way I wanted it. It's been a secret that I chose to only share with my immediate family and a very small circle of friends.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Life's not always a party... I had cancer.
A really HUGE deal actually because it's about something that only a few people know because that's the way I wanted it. It's been a secret that I chose to only share with my immediate family and a very small circle of friends.
19 comments:
- Trisha said...
Oh, Laurie! That must have been so scary for you! You are such a brave and strong woman! How much I love you! It makes me nervous...when I was pregnant with Jessie my OB told me to get a mole checked out and I never went...:( I am thinking now that I should make an appointment with a skin doctor asap! Thank you for sharing this!!! Love you!
- April 29, 2011 at 8:43 PM
- Natalie said...
Oh my! I cannot even imagine. My heart goes out to you and anybody else dealing with this. I hope your post makes people more aware and thank you so much for sharing! How brave of you!
- April 29, 2011 at 8:49 PM
Thank you for sharing your story with us! You truely are a brave woman! I'm so happy for you and your family that it was caught early and that they were able to get it before it spread!!
Love, Dori
- April 29, 2011 at 8:50 PM
- Reyna said...
Laurie thank you for sharing this. I had no idea and am happy that you have recovered. I am really good about putting sunscreen on the kids with all their sports. As a RN I should be better about myself but the truth is IAM NOT. After reading your story I will make sure and take better care of myself. Love you and thanks again for sharing you are truly an inspiration.
- April 29, 2011 at 9:11 PM
Thanks for sharing, it truly is a scary thing. The Taylor family has been touched with the same scary situation, but it was John and not me. The sad thing was that when John first showed me, in ignorance I said oh I'm sure it's nothing.....can you believe that! Thank goodness he didn't listen to me (not the first or last of that I might add...lol) and had it checked out! Raelee was 2 months old and as I researched it online, I began to read how serious it was. But thankfully John's had also been caught early , but to this day I check his back each month....(10 years later) and still no signs of any melanoma...:) We are also a sunscreen loving family!!!!! You are an amazing and strong woman!
- April 29, 2011 at 9:18 PM
- Jen said...
What more can I say?
- April 29, 2011 at 9:21 PM
- The Jenson's said...
Even though I already knew all of this hearing it again brought tears to my eyes. You went through so much with little Luke and I'm so happy the Dr. said get it removed Now.
I've had two moles removed "just in case" and one was right after having Zach (right above my boob, while nursing) lucky for me they came back negative.
Everyone should always check!!
- April 29, 2011 at 9:26 PM
- S said...
What a caring, sharing story. Thank you for speaking out, sharing and heloing others.
I have been lucy, but my grandmother had several moles removed as well, all of them limited to the mole itself and she lived into her 90s. I remember the years of being forced to wear a t-shirt in the sun and while i hated it then, they were right, i am grateful now. I keep a close eye on my own moles and my son's. It is always good to have a reminder of the signs.
thanks again
- April 29, 2011 at 10:28 PM
- Pamela Hauserman said...
Laurie, all I can think of is how brave you are to post this. Thank you so much. Your personal story will make all of us more vigilant! I was so thankful to read that they got it all. Love you!
- April 29, 2011 at 10:51 PM
Thank you Laurie for sharing! That is my biggest fear and I've been too scared to go to the doctor to checked, but I know I need too. You inspire me to bake cookies and to go to the doc! hehe! I guess I'll call tomorrow. I'm so glad they caught it and you are ok. You're an amazing momma! Your boys are blessed to have you!
- April 29, 2011 at 11:27 PM
- Heather said...
I know this was hard to share and even more difficult to experience. Thank you for letting us learn through your experience and example.
And just so you know, you can lather up all you want in sunscreen--YOU will always SHINE as the AMAZING mother, wife & woman that you are Laurie! Thank You!
- April 29, 2011 at 11:36 PM
- HeidiAdeleSnyder said...
Thanks for sharing. I'm so happy that the whole Gallamore family made it through that nightmare. Hugs!!!
- April 30, 2011 at 6:47 AM
I think I would have kept it private as well. Have you watch the show The Big C? on Showtime? You should. I've had a couple moles removed over the years. My dad had a similar situation you just went through. So scary how quickly your normal life can change. Just yesterday I noticed a skin discoloration on Terry's forehead that had gotten a lot bigger. He of course blows everything off. I am making app't with a dermatologist to to have our bodies inspected this week. Thanks for sharing, it must be relieving to finally get it all out there, and it also reminds people to keep up on their health before it is too late. Lucky little Luke.
- April 30, 2011 at 7:32 AM
- Mama Parker said...
Love you Laurie!!! You are an amazing friend, wife & mother. I am proud to know you. Total tears all over again. You are an inpiration in so many ways. <3 <3 <3
- April 30, 2011 at 7:56 AM
- Casa Sonrisa said...
Awww, Laurie, we're always here for you, no matter what life brings your way. So glad you're on the uphill now and can add this situation to the testament of the kind of woman you are. <3
- April 30, 2011 at 8:31 AM
- The Wallace Clan said...
I completely understand the dream to be a normal pregnant mom. I am so sorry for all you went through. I am so happy that you made it through and chose to share. I pray that you will stay cancer free.
- May 1, 2011 at 11:38 AM
- Wallie said...
The ABCDEs are great!!! I will keep these in mind when monitoring my moles. Who knew? All happens for a reason...good thing your Luke came through. :D
**New follower cuz of Ms. Natalie. :)
- August 23, 2011 at 11:09 AM
- Microdermabrasion said...
Microdermabrasion treatments can be used to reduce the effects of sun-damaged skin, wrinkles, and age spots. It can also be used to treat oily and acne prone skin, acne scars, blackheads and whiteheads. It can be effective in removing and superficial pigmentation on the skin.
- December 28, 2011 at 9:56 PM
- Darcy said...
WOW! You ARE the strongest most amazing Woman/Mom/Wife. I'm proud to call you my friend:)
- May 4, 2012 at 11:38 AM


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Whether it is a late New Year's resolution or a drive to get in shape for the beach season, warm spring weather often inspires people to get outside and begin an exercise routine. Before riding a bike, taking a walk, swimming, lifting weights, practicing yoga or picking up a new sport, starting a new routine requires some safety considerations.
So how do you safely start an exercise program that will not only prolong your life but also increase your energy level, reduce stress and help you fight disease? You start with evaluating your current fitness level and getting clearance from your doctor. It is your responsibility to know your medical limitations and restrictions to avoid injury or medical emergencies.
Your exercise plan should focus on strength, balance, aerobics and flexibility. Always begin your workout with a warm up and end with a cool down. Start slowly, wear proper shoes and comfortable clothing, maintain anatomical body alignment, learn to breathe and drink plenty of water. Increase intensity slowly and make sure you can talk comfortably while exercising.
Find the drive
Whatever exercise routine you choose, sticking to a program can be challenging. A regular workout schedule is safer and more beneficial than scattered efforts. Motivate yourself by establishing realistic goals and commit to exercise rather than more sedentary activities. Try to equate having fun with exercise. When your grandkids visit, go for long walks on the nature trail and the beach. Use the buddy system and ask a neighbor to sign up for an exercise class at the Purrysburg Fitness Center with you.
Make contingency plans
While traveling, remember to bring your gym shoes, look for hotels with fitness centers, or walk around the parking lot a few times. Check out exercise videos if it is too cold outside.
Following simple safety precautions can help you develop a sound exercise program. Set reasonable goals and don't do too much too soon. Watch for warning signs such as shortness of breath and chest pain. Stop exercising and seek medical help if these symptoms occur. Listen to your body; it will let you know if you are overextending yourself.
Keep in working condition
A good exercise program is often compared to regular maintenance on a car. If you change the oil, replace worn out tires, repair the brakes and change the spark plugs, your car will last longer.
According to Dr. Mehmet Oz in the December 2011/January 2012 issue of AARP magazine, "...maintenance is also the secret to a long and healthy life in humans... think of your cells as anti-aging mechanics ... if you treat them right, by eating well and exercising, they will tune you up... if you don't you will not be able to slow down the aging process."
Taking time to exercise will keep you healthy, physically fit and help you live longer. It is a wise investment for your future.
Tune into Sun City TV News at 7 a.m., 10 a.m., 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. daily for a segment about effective stretching for physical activity.


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Reader John Jensen alerted us to the fact that the Democrats have launched a whispering campaign against Bush-Cheney campaign manager and incoming Republican National Chairman Ken Mehlman, alleging that he is a homosexual. Apparently this has been going on for a while, but far off our radar screen. The "evidence" that Mehlman is gay apparently consists of the fact that he is 38 years old and unmarried.
One Bill Berkowitz of "Working for Change" indulges in the usual sleaze:
The chair of Bush's reelection team and newly appointed head of the RNC isn't talking about his sexual orientation, but lots of other folks are
While the GOP's latest wunderkind, Ken Mehlman, is having the time of his life addressing the Republican Governor's conference, sitting down with reporters and editors of several daily newspapers and basking in the afterglow of President Bush's November 2nd victory, the Internet is abuzz with rumors, innuendo, chitchat, and plain old Page-Six-type gossip about his sexual orientation.
While Mehlman has been more than willing — both before and after the election — to talk specifically about campaign-related issues, he has made his personal life off limits. By refusing to answer direct questions from reporters about his sexual orientation, he has left open the possibility that he is gay.
Likewise, the New York Blade speculates venomously about Mehlman's personal life:
The sexual orientation of Mehlman, who is 38 and unmarried, has long been the subject of speculation, and he refused to answer earlier this year when asked directly by this publication whether he or other top Bush campaign staffers are gay.
The announcement raises mixed emotions for me. I have known Ken since we were both law students and he worked for me at the Harvard Journal of Law & Public Policy, a libertarian/conservative law review. As young Washington attorneys in the early


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Ivory Coast: Mob attacks gay rights group office
By Ap
DAKAR, Senegal (AP) — An angry mob "ransacked" the headquarters of Ivory Coast's most prominent gay rights organization, an official said Monday, underscoring the dangers facing sexual minorities in Africa even in the few countries where homosexual acts are not crimes.
The attack occurred after multiple days of anti-gay protests in Ivory Coast, a country generally viewed as moderate and sometimes considered a safe haven for homosexuals fleeing persecution elsewhere.
On Saturday afternoon, nearly 200 people stormed the offices of Alternative Cote d'Ivoire in Abidjan, the commercial capital, flinging stones to shatter windows and stealing computers, said Claver Toure, the group's executive director.
Others heaved sacks of garbage over the property's exterior walls and strew trash and broken glass at the entrance. Signs hung on walls demanded "Stop the homos!" and "Pedes get out!" The word "pede" is short for pedophile and is commonly used in West Africa to insult gay men.
"Everything they could take was taken, and the rest was broken," Toure said, adding that a private security guard was hospitalized with wounds to his face.
U.S. Ambassador Terence P. McCulley said he was "shocked and saddened" by the attack, in a statement posted Monday to the embassy's Facebook page.
"Even if one is not in agreement with the point of view of an organization or its people, we have an obligation in a democracy to support the right of people to organize and express themselves," he said. "I hope that Ivorians will understand that these attacks are not consonant with democratic values."
Toure criticized what he described as a deliberately slow response by security forces, saying police did not arrive until the French ambassador contacted government officials. Ultimately, he said, about 10 officers came with a half dozen U.N. peacekeepers.
"When we call, the police need to come right away and protect us because we are Ivorians," Toure said.
Interior Minister spokesman Bazoumana Coulibaly said the government was not prepared to comment because it was still collecting information.
In a statement Friday, the Ireland-based human rights organization Front Line Defenders detailed what it described as "coordinated" attacks against Toure's group last week. It had warned that "rumors are circulating that a more virulent attack is envisioned" for Saturday.
On Jan. 20, neighbors gathered outside Toure's home to chant anti-gay slogans and issue death threats against those inside, Front Line Defenders said. Two days later, a mob targeted Alternative's headquarters, placing signs demanding that the organization leave.
It was not clear what prompted the attack against Alternative, located in an upscale neighborhood.
the presence of a gay rights organization would jeopardize their children's safety — highlighting the widespread belief throughout Africa that gay people target children for recruitment.
Toure said his landlord confronted him on Jan. 5 after neighbors complained that more than 20 people were staying in his home and that "condoms could be found throughout the neighborhood each morning" — accusations Toure denied.
The Ivory Coast attacks come amid an increasingly hostile environment for sexual minorities in Africa, most notably in Nigeria, where President Goodluck Jonathan earlier this month signed a law banning gay associations and gay marriage. Dozens have been arrested recently throughout Nigeria since then.
In the northern city of Bauchi, protesters tried to attack seven men accused of belonging to a gay organization, demanding they be stoned to death.
In Uganda, President Yoweri Museveni has voiced opposition to a bill approved by lawmakers last month calling for life imprisonment for some cases of homosexuality, though parliament still could muster enough support to make it law.
Ivory Coast is generally seen as more moderate on the issue, and Alternative has worked increasingly closely with the government on programs to combat HIV/AIDS.
But Matthew Thomann, an anthropologist at American University who has worked extensively with Abidjan's gay groups, said it would be "naive and dangerous" to portray Ivory Coast as an oasis of freedom.
"We must remind ourselves that the lack of anti-gay legislation in a country like Ivory Coast is not the same as LGBT individuals having actual legal protection or recourse when victimized," Thomann said of lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender minorities. "There are high levels of impunity for attacks such as those experienced by Mr. Toure and Alternative."
Human Rights Watch said the attacks should not go unpunished, noting the attacks came "despite several warnings to Ivorian authorities of escalating threats."
"The authorities must act swiftly to protect the activists and their supporters from any further violence and to hold accountable those who have led the recent mob attacks."
Associated Press writer Marc-Andre Boisvert contributed to this report from Abidjan.


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For cord-and-plug connected utilization equipment, as permitted in 400.7(A)(6) and 400.7(B) of the 2005 NEC, which of the following conditions doesn't require the use of an attachment plug energized from a receptacle outlet?
A) A vertical branch circuit cable drop made from a junction box that was properly sized and supported
B) A vertical branch circuit cable drop made from a bus plug connected to a busway, meeting the requirements of 368.56(B). The attachment cap was omitted, and the equipment was wired directly
C) Cord-and-plug connected utilization equipment supplied from a receptacle outlet, in which the utilization cord cap was plugged into a wall outlet of the proper configuration and rating
D) A vertical branch circuit cable drop made from a bus plug connected to a busway. The cable was installed with two vertical and horizontal runs in this one cable installation; in other words, the cable wasn't just vertical
Answer: B)
The general rule in 400.7(B) requires cord-and-plug connected utilization equipment [400.7(A)(6)] to be supplied from a receptacle outlet through an attachment cap. An exception references 368.56, which does allow direct wiring without an attachment cap in 368.56(C).
Owen is the owner and president of National Code Seminars and the holder of master electrician certifications in 46 states. He can be reached at [email protected].


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I really should get paid to post naked pictures of my face on the internet.
(Oh wait, this time I did While I was compensated for the time it took to write this post, my opinions are not for sale.)
BlogHer recently contacted me and asked if I would like to review two Cetaphil products this month. You all know I have struggled with acne-prone skin, so I am pretty game to try anything that may help. On top of that, you may remember that I had complained earlier this month that I still did not have any kind of sun protection at all in my routine, so when I read that one of the products was the Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 15 I absolutely jumped at the chance.
If you have been reading this website for any length of time, you know that taking care of my skin really does excite me, and for the past few months with The Great Skincare Experiment I have been consistently looking for that perfect intersection where healthy food and lifestyle meets ideal products for my face. It has been years since I have used any Cetaphil products, and I wasn't particularly unhappy with my current skincare routine, but the two main reasons I was willing to check out some Cetaphil products were:
1. It was the most common product that you all recommended to me back when asked for your skin care advice
2. Cetaphil products are recommended by more dermatologists than any other brand.
Recommendations from my readers and dermatologists? Alrighty then, I thought, Cetaphil products may be worth trying again!
It's only been a little while since I started using the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser and the Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 15 and I'm happy to report that they really are both as gentle as can be. For someone with very sensitive and dry skin, this is absolutely a must, especially during the winter months! But the other thing that is important to me is that a cleanser actually get my face clean, and a moisturizer actually moisturizes. Both of these products did the trick, and most importantly they've done so without any irritation whatsoever.
I'm looking forward to seeing how it compliments my skincare moving forward, and you KNOW I will be keeping you posted.
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None of the three Baltimore police officers who shot a suspected robber and a suspected burglar Wednesday night have any prior police-involved shootings in their records, Baltimore police said Friday.
Police identified the officer who shot a man as he allegedly left a 7-Eleven store near Mondawmin Mall with a cash register till in his hands as Betavia Elliott, a 24-year veteran of the department. The alleged suspect in that case, who police said was believed to be holding up the store at gunpoint but did not have a weapon, was wounded and later listed in stable condition at a hospital.
In a second incident later on Wednesday night, two officers walked into a southwest Baltimore home to investigate a report of a burglary and found two men inside wearing clothing bearing the word "police." One of the men was armed with a handgun, police said, and two officers fatally shot him after he did not follow orders to drop his weapon. The man who was killed was identified as Bernard Lofton, 22, of Parkville.
The officers involved in that shooting were identified as Aileen Villodas and Hovhannes Simonyan, both with the department since 2012.


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Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Blah Blah Bottled Water
While ranting to my mom about my personal peeve with the overpackaging of otherwise green products, I mentioned that I had written a letter to Seventh Generation asking why their paper towels are wrapped in plastic although their toilet paper is wrapped in paper. My mom replied, "I don't even know where to find Seventh Generation paper towels."
I thought my mom hit on a major point. Many, many Americans are in the same boat as my parents, who live in a small town in Kentucky. They want to be more environmentally conscious, but the only place to shop is Walmart, and their town doesn't even collect recycling.
Luckily, there are still things they can do, and one of the simplest green steps they can take is to break up with bottled water.
I can already hear the protests:
"But my tap water isn't clean!"
The truth is, at least 40 percent of bottled water is tap water anyway, and most tap water meets the EPA's standards for water quality. But if you're still concerned about the cleanliness of your tap water, you can always buy a filter.
"But bottled water is more convenient!"
Buy a reusable water bottle. Get a nice stainless steel model, or go the No Impact Man route: recycle a glass jar. Seriously, if my kids can learn to carry a water bottle with them when they leave the house, you can do it too.
"I already reuse my water bottle. And then I recycle it."
Kudos on the reusing and recycling. The problem here is that the plastic used to make water bottles (PET) is not meant for multiple use and can lead to nasty stuff like bacteria and chemical-leaching.
"But bottled water tastes better!"
Okay, if you really like the taste of plastic, you've got me there, but at least consider that tap water costs on average .2 cents per gallon. That's 750-2700 times cheaper than bottled water. To find out how much money you're wasting on bottled water, check out this bottled water cost calculator from the New American Dream.
Need more reasons to give up bottled water? Peruse the Break the Bottled Water Habit challenge from the New American Dream and watch the movie Tapped.
A version of this post originally appeared on my personal blog, The Conscious Shopper, on October 22, 2008. Since I wrote it, I've added another item to my list of personal peeves: Attending so-called "green" events that serve bottled water. This drives me crazy! Or going to advocacy meetings with other greenies who are drinking bottled water. I remind myself that not everyone is on the same green level as me and that I am certainly an imperfect greenie myself. But still...carrying a reusable water bottle is such a simple step. It's like Going Green 101.
If you're still drinking bottled water, please consider obtaining a stainless steel water bottle. You'll recoup the cost after 10-20 uses. Simple, green, and frugal!
14 comments:
- Eco Yogini said...
yay Klean Kanteen!!! I never thought i'd be a water drinker, but buying the klean kanteen has changed my life (dramatic hey? lol).
water is a human right and shouldn't be bought and sold like a commodity.
- January 27, 2010 at 3:18 AM
- Olivia said...
Just one point - not ALL tap water is potable. Case in point - we live in a rural agricultural area where runoff has resulted in a high nitrate level as well as, occasionally, a high e-coli and coliform bacteria count. The e-coli and coliform we can deal with by annual flushing of our well with Javex but there is nothing we can do about the nitrates other than to install either a complicated and very expensive ultra violet osmosis filtering system or digging a new well - which might not solve the problem - it's a gamble. Therefore, we buy bottled water in very large containers and refill them for drinking purposes only. I wish we did not have to do this but unless someone would like to pay for the other options, which we cannot afford, we have no other choice. I do fill a stainless steel bottle to take with me when I go out although only if I am gone for a long period of time. I have spent most of my life not having to drink vast amounts of water on an hourly basis, as seems to be the fad nowadays and I still find I can carry out my normal activities without unmanageable thirst.
I agree that, if your water is safe for drinking, then by all means do so and lay off the bottles but sometimes I get irritated by the one-size-fits-all approach to environmental problems.
- January 27, 2010 at 7:32 AM
- Julia (Color Me Green) said...
i've been told that because of pesticides, tap water in long island is linked to breast cancer, which is why ppl i know there are afraid to drink the water and drink bottled water instead. i suppose there are filters that can filter out pesticides, but i think it would take a lot of research and convincing to give people peace of mind about that.
- January 27, 2010 at 8:38 AM
- Erin aka Conscious Shopper said...
@Eco Yogini - Yes, privatization of water freaks the crap out of me and makes me so angry, I feel a rant coming on!
@Olivia - Thank you for pointing out that there are exceptions in every situation. If I don't always mention them, it's merely for simplicity's sake.
@Julia - You can get your water tested to see if you need a filter, and thanks to Beth at Fake Plastic Fish, you can now also recycle your Brita filters. Plus, as I say in the post, 40% of bottled water is tap water anyway.
- January 27, 2010 at 8:52 AM
- concretenprimroses said...
Good point. Bottled water is a rip off for many people. tho my city water doesn't taste as good as the wonderful wellwater I used to have years ago. I bought a selzer maker for dh and I for christmas, and one for my mom. We love it. No more throwaway plastic bottles! Not buying seltzer is a relief on many levels.
A caution to campers: do not take those nice stainless steel bottles winter camping. Water freezes really fast in them. Heavy plastic (in your sleeping bag with you at nite, and in your pack while youre hiking in the cold) is much better.
- January 27, 2010 at 12:38 PM
- Wendy said...
It took us a while, but we finally made the mental and physical switch away from bottled water.
Now, we're lovin' our stainless steel water "bottles", but I think the idea of the glass jar is just fantastic. Who doesn't have or can't find glass jars? So easy!
- January 27, 2010 at 12:48 PM
- Linda A said...
For those of you who have problem water, I received a stainless filtered water bottle called ech2o. It is from Ecousable.It would be a good solution for personal use.
- January 27, 2010 at 6:20 PM
- Mary said...
I have the stainless steel bottles but I wish I had a top like yours for the kids. Did it come like that or did you find it separate?
- January 28, 2010 at 7:38 AM
- Erin aka Conscious Shopper said...
@Mary - It's a brand of water bottles called EcoUsable. The one in the picture has a filter in it and comes with a flip cap, but the regular type of bottles have sports caps. I should be getting a couple to give away at The Conscious Shopper...I'm waiting for the company to send them to me.
- January 28, 2010 at 8:23 AM
- Karen Moser-Booth said...
Nice! Erin, you might like this book: Bottlemania: How Water Went On Sale and Why We Bought It by Elizabeth Royte.
- January 31, 2010 at 8:37 AM
- Erin aka Conscious Shopper said...
@Karen - Yes, I have that one on my "to read" list. I loved Garbageland - Elizabeth Royte has such a great way of making a boring subject seem interesting.
- January 31, 2010 at 10:28 AM
- Lisa Sharp said...
My husband likes his Klean Kanteens so much he uses them around the house.
- February 1, 2010 at 9:35 AM
I think a big contributor to the addition to plastic-bottled water, other than the agressive marketing by beverage companies, is the mistaken notion, pushed by "health" advocates, that grown adults need to walk around drinking water all day. Honestly, I see people lugging those bottles around and they morph into babies before my eyes. Unless one is exercising quite vigorously (QUITE vigorously- I can run for an hour with no need for water), there is simply no need for so much water. But we have bought in.
To those who buy bottled water because their tap water is undrinkable- what about a faucet filter? They last quite a long time. the PUR brand filters chemical as well as biological toxins, and lasts for many months, at a cost of about $29 (less with discounts and coupons). Surely that's less than buying bottles of water and SO much less waste.
- February 17, 2010 at 11:17 AM
- Michelle said...
I know this post is about water, but I wanted to add in my 2 cents worth about Seventh Generation. They may claim to be green, but they are loaded with chemicals, one in particular - Sodium Lauryl Sulfate - which is known to cause cancer. Just thought I'd post this for anyone who's been duped by this company.
- March 24, 2010 at 7:39 PM


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46 yo, fit/athletic, 4.5 level player seeking tennis partners in greater Tucson area. I am open to any tennis courts. Prefer players 3.5 and above but I welcome players of any level.
Views: 272
Replies to This Discussion
Hi, my name is Mike. I'm looking for someone to hit with also. Monday and Tuesday anytime is best for me. Also, weekend afternoons. Thanks.
Jerry here...am in tucson til 3 feb....need hitting partner....
email firstname.lastname@example.com
Hi - Looking for a regular 35.4.0 doubles game each week. 52 yo.
I'm 53 and a 4.0 plus or minus and would like to play. I prefer doubles but will play singles as well. Would love to have a regular group to play doubles with. I can play at the JCC (faux clay) or hardcourts.
jerry henderson here....in tucson visiting daughter...but frequent area 3 time a year...like to play 3x a week...
will play doubles or singles....
email...and ill call you
I am looking for a 4th for men's doubles for tomorrow (Sat December 22) morning at the JCC at 9 am. If you are interested, call me at 370-7867.
We are in your age range and probably good solid 4s if not better.
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AcademicsPage address: http://www.mnsu.edu/family/resources/academics.html
Tips for Your Student's Academic Success:
Parents and families can be a great influence in promoting good study habits and academic choices. As a parent/family member, you know your student's strengths and limitations, and are in the best position to encourage and support their positive behaviors.
Always go to class.
A missed class might include a quiz, assignment, important notes, etc. Missing class may also mean missing participation points.
Use a planner/calendar.
The University bookstore sells a variety of planner as do several retail outlets in the Mankato area. If nothing else, students can print out a calendar using one of dozens of on-line offerings.
Visit professor office hours.
Encourage your student in utilize office hours to introduce themselves to new or unfamiliar professors, ask clarifying questions or receive help with anything misunderstood in class.
Seek advising regularly.
Students should seek regular advising to ensure they are on the right track towards a timely graduation. Building a rapport with professors/instructors can be invaluable.
Treat school like a full-time job.
Suggest that your student make the full investment in their education. Challenge them on issues related to the number of hours they spend working or socializing. Suggest they become active in the campus community by joining a student organization, intramural team, or other campus activity.
Seek academic assistance early.
As parents, knowing the support services offered to students is essential. Encourage your student to utilize those services early rather than when the issue becomes overwhelming.
Support is key.
Offer praise and positive reinforcement regularly. Ask your student what they think about what they learned, and not just what they learned. This engages you in their studies.
Academic Success
The best advice that any student can follow is to make contact with an academic advisor early in their educational career. It is equally important for students to have frequent communication with their academic advisor.
Each student is assigned an academic advisor. An email is sent to the students University Email account letting them know their advisor name the first semester of their enrollment. A student can also find the name of their advisor by logging into E-Services. Appropriate advising can help ensure that students are:
- meeting academic requirements
- making progress towards choosing a major
- improving academic performance
- completing degree requirements
There is a Student Relations Coordinator (SRC) in each college, to help manage the advising process. To declare a major or change advisors, students should contact the Student Relations Coordinator for their intended college of major. Services provided by Student Relations Coordinators include:
- Provides general education advising
- Advising and evaluating student transcripts for new and old general education requirements
- Assists students in filling out graduation applications
- Provides general information about majors and minors in the College
- Refers students to specific faculty for academic advising
- Conducts initial advising for students on academic probation
|Allied Health
|Arts and Humanities
|Science, Engineering, and Technology
|Social and Behavioral Sciences
The majority of major advising is at the department level in order to give students the opportunity to speak with an experienced faculty member within their chosen department for major advising, to allow students to get to know the faculty that will be teaching the majority of their classes, and to obtain advising directly from the source of the major. Students who are considering a specific major, have questions about, or are showing interest in majors within the college should utilize the office of the SRC because the Student Relations Coordinator has ample information about all majors and departments.
Academic Support Services
Undecided/Undeclared Students
103 Preska Residence Community, 507-389-5498
Undeclared advising is offered within the Office of New Student and Family Programs. Students who are unsure of their major, or are considering a change of major can schedule an appointment. To schedule an appointment call 507-389-5498.
Center for Academic Success
132 Memorial Library, 507-389-1791
The Center for Academic Success is the primary academic support resource on campus and all students are welcome to use its services. Tutoring for most of the lower division courses is available at no cost to Minnesota State University, Mankato students. The tutors are experienced and have participated in College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA) training as part of the national certification program. Check out the Center for Academic Success, located in the lower level of the Memorial Library.
The Academic Computer Center
117 Wissink Hall, 507-389-6766
The Academic Computer Center (ACC) offers computer access to all registered students. Over 400 computers are available for students to use in the ACC & another 450 computers are located across campus in specialized satellite labs. The latest in hardware & software applications are available; including the internet through high-speed communications. Student assistance is available in the ACC for help with technical questions. In addition, the ACC offers free workshops each semester to assist students in learning different software programs.
Library Services
The Memorial Library provides students with access to information available at Minnesota State and at many other libraries. Assistance is available at the reference desk for students who need help finding materials or developing a research strategy. Call 389-6201 for library hours.
Student Support Services
355 Wiecking Center, 507-389-2797
Student Support Services is a federally funded program that assists students in achieving their potential both personally and academically. It is the goal of Student Support Services to retain and graduate participants from Minnesota State University, Mankato. The services, which are free to participants, include tutoring, academic advising, personal and/or career counseling, career planning, workshops, seminars, and cultural activities. Students who meet any of the following eligibility criteria, or who would like more information, should contact the Office of Student Support Services. A student is eligible for Student Support Services if:
- The family income level meets the standards set by the U.S. Department of Education;
- Neither parent has received a bachelors degree; or
- The student has a documented disability.


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Anthony C. Andrighetto grew up a Woodside kid in a Portola Valley neighborhood -- Woodside's Family Farm/Hidden Valley is surrounded by Portola Valley -- went to school in Menlo Park and Mountain View, and played sports wherever he went, including Little League, Pop Warner and, most recently, intramural sports at the University of Arizona.
Anthony had recently discovered that he liked coaching, his father Steven Andrighetto said. On his way back from coaching student basketball at Our Mother of Sorrows Catholic School in Tucson on Wednesday, Oct. 19, someone made a left turn in front of the Jeep he was driving and he died as a result of the collision. He was 21.
His roommate and Delta Chi fraternity brother Sam Schmid, his passenger in the Jeep, is hospitalized in a coma, Mr. Andrighetto said. "They were good boys," he said. "It was a horrible accident."
Three other people were injured in an accident that ultimately involved five vehicles, but none of the other injuries were as serious, according to a report from the Tucson Police Department.
"The (university's) Interfraternity Council is deeply saddened at the loss of Anthony and wishes to offer our deepest sympathies to the members of Delta Chi, family and friends of those affected by this tragedy," Michael Colletti, the council's president, said in a story in the university's newspaper, the Arizona Daily Wildcat.
Mr. Andrighetto spoke with the Almanac in a telephone interview on Monday, Oct. 24, just ahead of an 11 a.m. funeral for his son at St. Raymond Catholic Church on Santa Cruz Avenue in Menlo Park.
"He was a terrific athlete," Mr. Andrighetto said. Anthony played Little League baseball and football with the Pop Warner (Menlo-Atherton Vikings) program, as well as at Raymond Catholic School and St. Francis (Catholic) High School in Mountain View, his father said.
As a senior and track and field athlete at St. Francis in 2009, he ran with the 400-yard-relay team that won its way into the state championship, where St. Francis placed fourth, his father said.
"He was a small guy, but he was a really spectacular athlete," he father said. "He knew he had to work hard because he was so small. That was kind of his MO."
After making a touchdown in football, Anthony typically would not engage in antics at the goalposts but head back to his team, his dad said.
Permissive left turns
Tucson traffic intersections are notable for allowing "unprotected" left turns when a straight-ahead red light turns green, Mr. Andrighetto said. When that green light then turns red, a left green arrow typically lights up to allow protected left turns, he said.
"Only in Tucson," Mr. Andrighetto said, adding that it's a common topic among parents with kids at the University of Arizona. "We all talk about those signals," he said.
The accident began, according to witness accounts to Tucson police, with a van making a left turn into the right-of-way of the Jeep driven by Mr. Andrighetto, with Mr. Schmid as the passenger.
After colliding with the van, the Jeep left the ground, struck a pole and came to rest on its side.
Excessive speed does not appear to have been a factor, police said, adding that an investigation will be looking into the influence of drugs or alcohol. Such factors are highly unlikely to have had a role in this accident, Mr. Andrighetto said.
Anthony's major at Arizona was business/agriculture, his father said. Anthony had twice worked part-time for his dad at his South San Francisco wholesale produce business and there was talk of him joining that business, his father said.
But Anthony had begun to look at coaching. "He started opening his eyes and saying, 'I really enjoy doing this,'" his dad said.
With his father, Anthony Andrighetto is survived by his mother Donna of Woodside; brothers Vincent of New York City, Marco at Pepperdine University, and Dante, also at the University of Arizona; and his sister Mary at Corte Madera Middle School, his father said.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests all donations be sent using the following information in order to create the Anthony Andrighetto Gift Fund: Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund, PO BOX 770001, Cincinnati OH 45277-0053, Checks should be made payable to Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund. In the memo section, write Account 1041092, Anthony Andrighetto. If you send checks via overnight delivery, please mail checks to Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund, 100 Crosby Parkway, Mail zone KC1D-FCS, Covington KY 41015-9325.


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Alex Rodriguez and his representatives are reportedly looking for ways to mitigate the possible lifetime ban the player could face for his connection to Biogenesis.
Sources are claiming that the 38-year-old player is looking to settle for a "lengthy suspension" to avoid the possibility of a lifetime ban.
On Tuesday it was reported that Major League Baseball officials would announce the suspension of Alex Rodriguez and eight other players this week.
The suspensions come as a result of the player's implication in a Biogenesis anti-aging clinic scandal, but while most of the participants are facing a 50-game ban, the stakes are higher for Rodriguez as he is also being accused of lying to investigators and interfering with an investigation.
According to Outside Lines, some MLB officials are pushing for a ban because "they would rather force Rodriguez to defend himself than agree to a suspension that allows him play while he appeals."
A source close to the incident has said that though MLB officials are willing to ban Rodriguez for life, they are aware that he will fight the sanction in arbitration.


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Media Statements & Speeches
|Statement: December 16, 2010
|View Printable PDF Version
|Docket No. ER10-1791-000
Commissioner Norris's statement on removing barrier to development of needed transmission in Midwest Region
"Similar to other areas of the country, public policy mandates, aging infrastructure and changing uses of the grid are creating a need for new transmission infrastructure in the Midwest. Today we approve a proposal developed by Midwest ISO and its stakeholders to facilitate the development of new transmission facilities to meet these needs and provide broad benefits to customers throughout the region.
As I have noted before, I believe the transmission grid is key piece of the puzzle that is our national energy future. As we ask that grid to do more and more - from supporting large regional wholesale energy markets to facilitating the use of more renewable energy and demand-side resources - existing transmission planning and cost allocation mechanisms may prove unworkable. For this reason, proposals to update and supplement those mechanisms like the one we approve today are critical to moving forward to address our energy challenges.
The Multi Value Projects (MVP) proposal approved in this order establishes a new transmission planning and cost allocation mechanism where it is needed most - to support large-scale transmission projects needed to meet regional public policy requirements, as well as large projects that provide broad reliability and economic benefits in the region. These are the kinds of projects that we have seen struggle to get off the drawing board under existing planning and cost allocation protocols.
I want to commend the Midwest ISO and all of the stakeholders in the region for their extensive efforts in developing and supporting this proposal. As I know from personal experience, the Midwest ISO covers a vast region of stakeholders with many interests. Reaching a compromise on any issue with such a large group can be challenging, let alone on an issue as difficult as cost allocation. I want to especially recognize and thank our state commission colleagues, under the leadership of Commissioner Lauren Azar, for their active role in helping move this process forward.
In some respects, approving a proposal this extensive is much like passing a major piece of legislation - it represents an important beginning to the work that needs to be done, not necessarily the end. The Midwest ISO, the stakeholders in the region, and the Commission will be working through planning and cost allocation issues under this new framework for the foreseeable future. I hope the spirit of compromise and mutual interest that led to this proposal will persevere as we go forward."
|View Printable PDF Version


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Josefine Jönsson
Started with photography in 2006 and has been experimenting with my style since then.
Studied a degree in Commercial and magazine photography,
Fotoskolan Gamleby, 2009-2011.
I love creating timeless photography, whether it is the model or the scenery. Capturing the beauty of my models have always been important to me, both during a shoot and when retouching.
I don't think photography must be to have the most awesome location or lightning, but to capture that moment which is special and beyond more beautiful in a photography; simplicity.
Every photo I take is special to me, this is a way for me to share my dreams, thoughts and creativity.
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