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IT'S not often a rally driver starts a stage of an event with the knowledge that, before the finish, he will have spent half a minute in the air.
Welcome to Neste Oil Rally Finland, which starts today, and to the legendary Ouninpohja stage, one of the fastest stretches of road in the FIA World Rally Championship.
The awesome highlight of the event renowned as WRC's "gravel grand prix", Ouninpohja has been reinstated to the Finland schedule with is full length of 34.39 kilometres.
Last time the stage was was run to full length in 2013, Sebastien Ogier's Volkswagen took off 77 times in 33.01 kilometres. Data from the fastest Polo R WRC down the road showed it spent 30.4 seconds in the air on a stage that only took 15m08.9s.
Air time's a common feature of Ouninpohja – Markko Martin recorded Rally Finland's longest jump ever when he sent his Ford Focus RS WRC ballistic for 57 metres over the famous crest alongside the yellow house, mid-way through.
The Estonian's take-off speed of 171 kmh was the reason for his long leap and his victory on the 2003 event.
Finland is Round 8 of the 13-round WRC and that means that Round 10, Coates Hire Rally Australia, is heading for the New South Wales Coffs Coast in just seven weeks' time.
Tickets are on same form NRMAtix for the 10-13 September event, for which organisers have promised WRC drivers different but equally challenging tests on new and revised stages including the 50.8 km Nambucca Special Stage.
Double world champion and current points leader Sebastien Ogier can't wait to get back to Ouninpohja after his epic effort two years ago.
"If I were asked to compile a list of the best stages in the entire championship, Ouninpohja would definitely be on it. Two years ago we drove the full length of it and I set a record time. I want to be right at the front again this year," he said.
However, the Frenchman is quick to point out that the flying Finns will be worth watching on the roads around Jyvaskyla and that his Volkswagen teammate Jari-Matti Latvala who has struggled for wins since winning Finland last year, will be on maximum attack.
"The Finns are usually very strong at their home event. I'm expecting my team-mate Jari-Matti Latvala in particular to prove a challenge again this year. He is the man to beat."
Rally Finland action kicks off on Thursday evening local tme with the mixed surface 2.27km Harju sprint, located close to the rally base in Jyväskylä and finishes with a single stage, Myhinpää, run twice on Sunday.
The 20 stages cover exactly 320km of the fastest rally competition in the world.
The Volkswagen, Citroen, Hyundai and M-Sport Ford teams all have run test sessions in preparation for this weekend.
After standout performances in the last two WRC rounds, another strong result is on the cards for New Zealand's Hayden Paddon in his Hyundai i20 WRC car.
"Rally Finland is probably one of my favourite events of the year. It is quite a lot like New Zealand in places – there are lots of very fast sections and a lot of jumps, while the atmosphere is second to none," Paddon said.
"It's also probably the event at which we have the most experience. This will be my sixth time driving at Rally Finland and I've had some good results in the past.
"Finland is an important event for my co-driver John (Kennard) – he did his first WRC rally there before I was even born! Now he lives there with his wife so it's a special place. Hopefully we can make it even more so with a good result next weekend."
Chris Nixon
Latest posts by Chris Nixon (see all)
- WELCOME TO WRC 2020! - January 1, 2020
- TÄNAK SET TO TEST HYUNDAI, OGIER TRIES TOYOTA - December 4, 2019
- TÄNAK ADDS DRIVER OF THE YEAR TO TITLE HAUL - December 2, 2019


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SALLISAW � A Sequoyah County judge on Wednesday set a May 17 preliminary hearing for a Sallisaw man accused in the 1997 beating death of Mitchell Dayne Nixon, 28.
SALLISAW � A Sequoyah County judge on Wednesday set a May 17 preliminary hearing for a Sallisaw man accused in the 1997 beating death of Mitchell Dayne Nixon, 28.
Rex Richard Robbins III, 38, faces charges of first-degree murder with an alternate charge of first-degree felony murder for allegedly participating in the killing while also robbing Nixon. He is charged with first-degree robbery for allegedly taking Nixon�s new Mazda pickup.
Robbins pleaded not guilty to the charges on March 13, and has been held without bond in the Sequoyah County Detention Center since his March 6 arrest. Private attorney Dan George of Sallisaw entered his appearance as Robbins� defense attorney on Wednesday.
Preliminary hearings are held to allow a judge to determine if the prosecution has enough evidence to proceed to trial against a defendant.
According to an investigator�s affidavit, Robbins has alleged two other individuals were also involved in the 15-year-old homicide.
According to the affidavit by Sequoyah County Sheriff�s Department investigator George Bormann, deputies found Nixon�s body in the Tower Estates area four miles east of Sallisaw on Oklahoma 64.
An autopsy ruled the death to be homicide caused by blunt force trauma to the head. According to the autopsy report, Nixon suffered multiple skull fractures, contusions, abrasions and lacerations.
According to the affidavit, Robbins told investigators that while walking near his mother�s home in Gans, an acquaintance with whom he�d done drugs picked him up and drove him to the tower at Tower Estates. Robbins alleged the acquaintance knew something would happen to Nixon, and knew Robbins would help him after giving him �dope.�
Robbins allegedly told investigators that another acquaintance drove up to the tower with Nixon in Nixon�s truck. Robbins alleged that when the new arrivals got out of the truck, Nixon�s companion hit him with a rock, then tossed a rock to Robbins. Robbins allegedly said he hit Nixon with the rock four or five times while the other man hit Nixon with his fists. According to the affidavit, Robbins said Nixon�s companion wanted to bully Nixon so as to take his truck.
Robbins allegedly told investigators he knew Nixon was dead after he hit him.
Sequoyah County Sheriff Ron Lockhart has said he anticipates making another arrest in the case.

subset: commoncrawl


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Tonight's blog is a sequel to yesterday's buyer-oriented post. All right, buyers, here's what other brokers are going to hate me for telling you.
It's OK; I'm comfortable with animosity.
No, it really isn't always a great time to buy. It's certainly always a great time for you to buy—for your agent, that is. Though it isn't always the case, real estate agents are normally paid by the seller on a commission basis. That means if you don't buy a house, they don't get a check. Is it really in your best interest, then, to take their word on current economic data, mortgage rates, and the like?
Truth be told, most agents are going to assume you're reading the news, but there are always going to be a few unscrupulous ones who will stretch the truth a little. I went to an open house a few Sundays, and the agent (a highly experienced broker with years in the business) tried to convince me that I had to buy now before the new real estate sales tax took effect. This "sales tax" was allegedly a 3.8% federal tax on all real property sales that was part of the recent health care legislation. One problem: IT ISN'T TRUE.
I can't say for sure whether this broker was being deliberately deceitful or simply ignorant, but it astounded me that such mistruths were being spoken. These guys should know better.
Anyway, the moral is, do your own research. Look at the leading economic indicators for your area. Look at the trend upward or downward of home prices when compared to rental prices (you'll see a future post about renting vs. owning; you might be surprised).
Of course, the "right" time to buy is going to be different for everyone. I sat out the last real estate run-up, renting a house that was costing me less than half the cost of what the mortgage would have been had I bought the house at the peak of the market. I felt fortunate to ignore the calls of friends and real estate agents to buy now, before I got priced out forever. I rolled my eyes; I knew that real estate is cyclical, and after every major boom is a major bust.
My house is a 1350 square foot house in a nondescript San Fernando Valley neighborhood. (I mention that only as contextual purposes.) I bought it as a foreclosure for $225,000 less than the previous owner had paid, 18 months earlier. Had I drank the Kool-Aid, I would have been the one losing the house instead of benefiting from the crash. Of course, had I waited even longer, I could have paid less for a similar house, but the important things to me are that 1) I don't have to stretch to make my mortgage payment, and 2) I'm paying less than I was paying as a renter.
However, money is only one factor. I enjoy having a bigger yard than I had before, and have enjoyed renovating the house and becoming more involved in my neighborhood than I ever had before. There is a certain feeling of pride, belonging, and of course stability that having a real "stake" in my neighborhood provides. That's something you really can't put a value on.
Your story will differ. Maybe interest rates are low now, but it might be worth your while to improve your credit score. Maybe you expect prices to continue falling, but with your second child on the way, you need more space. Maybe you need to see whether your new job is going to pan out. Maybe you don't quite have the 20% down payment you were hoping to have, but the house you've dreamed of owning for years just came on the market. There are many reasons why it is or is not the right time for you to buy.
Your agent isn't necessarily "your" agent. I'll probably have to do another post on agency laws and agency disclosure requirements, because it can quickly get confusing (and, unfortunately, boring). Some states have slightly different definitions, but in California, there are three types of representation: 1) single agency, where the agent represents the seller only; 2) single agency, where the agent represents the buyer only; and 3) dual agency, where the agent represents both the buyer and the seller. (Dual agency is fraught with potential conflicts of interest, and requires the agreement of both parties.)
In 30 seconds or less, here's what you need to know. The fact that you are the buyer doesn't necessarily mean that your agent actually represents you. That's right. Unless you have an explicit agreement (usually in the form of a written buyer-broker agreement) with your agent, your agent technically represents the seller. The agent still owes you the duty of fair and honest dealing, but his or her fiduciary responsibility is to the buyer.
So be careful. As the buyer, make sure you have an agent clearly representing you under option #2 above.
If you're a buyer, and you're submitting an offer directly through the listing agent, be aware that the agent can never represent you only, and anything you tell the listing agent (e.g., "Sure, I'm willing to pay their asking price, but I want to make a lower offer first") can be used against you in negotiations. That's a great way to find yourself on the wrong end of the deal.
Commissions are always negotiable. To quote yesterday's post, "Always! Always! Always!"
Agents will tell you that they work for the buyer for free. You don't have to pay a dime! That may be technically true, but remember that the seller typically pays your agent from the proceeds of the sale of the house. OK, fine, but who pays for the house?
Many people know this already, but for those of you who are new to the home buying process, here's how it works. When the seller signs a listing agreement with their agent, the listing agreement includes a certain percentage of the sales price as that agent's commission. Their agent will split the commission with whatever other agent produces the buyer. So if the commission is, x%, your agent gets 1/2 of x% and the seller's agent gets 1/2 of x%. (Actually, the agents' brokers also get a cut of the proceeds, but let's keep it simple.)
Again, this isn't technically true, but you're essentially paying the buyer a certain percentage extra for having your own agent. If your agent's commission was completely eliminated from the equation, the seller would probably be willing to accept a lower sales price. Of course, agents do invest considerable time and cost in helping you find a home and navigate through the transaction, so they aren't going to work for free (unless your best friend or a close family member happens to be a broker).
However, what you might not know is that you can negotiate to get some of your agent's commission refunded back to you? It's called a buyer rebate; familiarize yourself with this term, because it can put money back in your pocket after you close escrow. Sometimes it's as easy as simply asking your agent if he or she will give you a rebate.
Now, agents who work for traditional brokerage firms might not have as much flexibility in allowing rebates. This is simply because many of these firms take a large cut of your agent's commissions. However, agents who work for flat-fee brokerages as well as independent brokers themselves can often offer a substantial rebate without sacrificing service. (One more shameless plug—Perkins Realty Group fits into that category!)
Your agent's "good" inspector or mortgage guy might be good…just not for you. Not surprisingly, most buyers don't have a handy list of home inspectors, pest control companies, escrow agents, or title companies. But before you blindly take your agent's advice, do your own research and make sure these companies or individuals have a good reputation. A few minutes on the internet is usually all you need.
There's a difference between an inspector who is good and one who is good for you. A friend of mine who is a home inspector** in Texas is known—only half-jokingly—in his field as a "deal killer." The thoroughness in his job has led to discovery of previously unnoticed defects that affected property values, and has wound up scuttling more than a few real estate transactions because the banks would no longer finance the property.
**(In the interest of full disclosure, I have no business relationship with the aforementioned home inspector.)
His discovering those defects certainly worked well in the buyer's favor, but there have been agents who have stopped referring clients to him after a deal fell through.
Yep. Because he did his job well, he lost business. So, who do you think those agents are referring their clients to now? My guess is they're calling up an inspector who won't sink the deal. The agents still get their commissions, and the owners hopefully won't get a house that's about to collapse.
Again, I don't mean to imply that this is the norm. It most certainly is not. Defects found by an inspector who does "too good" a job may cause a deal to fall through, but most agents will recognize that having someone like that on their team will win even more customers. Most agents will understand how badly their reputation will suffer if their recommended inspector misses something obvious—and expensive.
But do your own research anyway.
Did you like what you read? Join us on Facebook for more helpful information!


text: Wings Of Glory is an aircraft game where you will play as a WWII fighter pilot. Take control of a plane and navigate it in the best direction so as to perform actions and fire the enemy. Your mission is to defend the own airspace at all costs. Thus, you should remove every invader in Wings Of Glory as soon as possible. Watch out! Avoid their assault to survive. You only have a few lives in each battle. Try to use them sparingly! Let's start and explore your task!


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Lewthwaite et al (2016) explored Aboriginal student and family voices about what what classroom environments and teacher practices look like if they are truly reflective of Aboriginal students' histories, preference and circumstances.
While many of the themes that emerged mirror existing research into what works to support disadvantaged students, there is one significant difference. Lewthwaite et al suggest that what is missing from much of the current literature is the acknowledgement of the deeper role of culturally located teaching practices. That is learning experiences that reflect, validate and promote each student's culture and language, and respond appropriately for the benefit of each student. They describe this a Culturally Responsive Pedagogy' or a 'pedagogy of difference.'
This is supported by the findings from the Productivity Commission's 2016 research into Indigenous Primary School achievement (see our Research Review). The Productivity Commission also recommend that Indigenous students need quality instruction that is tailored to individual students with a culture of high expectations, strong teacher-student and community relationships, and support for Indigenous culture.
Read our review of Lewthwaite's research
Read a two-page summary of the review
The full research paper is available at:
Lewthwaite, B. E., Osborne, B., Lloyd, N., Boon, H., Llewellyn, L., Webber, T., Laffin, G., Harrison, M., Day, C., Kemp, C.,& Wills, J. (2015). Seeking a Pedagogy of Difference: What Aboriginal Students and Their Parents in North Queensland Say About Teaching and Their Learning. Australian Journal of Teacher Education, 40(5).


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Dance Studio Burlington
Summer Dance Programs
Join us at Creative Edge Dance for Summer Fun! Keep in shape, work on your technique or join one of our themed summer camps! We have drop in dance classes so you can work on jazz, acro, hip hop, contemporary or lyrical dance. We even have a hip hop class for adults!
Don't miss our summer dance intensive for competitive students with special guest choreographers. Our themed summer dance camps are always popular/sold out and geared for ages 4-12. You do not have to be a student at the studio to participate in any summer dance events (but you are welcome to join our studio this fall!)
Summer Drop In Classes
Join us on Tuesday & Wednesday for drop in classes in Jazz, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Tap, Contemporary, Acro and Adult hip hop! Check out our homepage for schedules & more info!
Pay As you Go: $15 + HST
5 Class Card $50 + HST
10 Class Card $100 + HST
Summer Dance Intensive
Creative Edge's Summer Dance Intensive is designed for experienced competitive dancers. Dancer's will learn different choreography, skills and technique in Jazz, Acro, Hip Hop, Ballet, Lyrical, Contemporary & Tap. If you'd like a competitive edge come experience our amazing week of intensive training!!
Ages 7+ – Experience Necessary – 10am-2pm
Special Guest Choreographers: Derek Piquette, Shauneese Morrison & more!!
Summer Dance Camps
Every year our fun and active dance camps sell out. Kids love to spend time building their love of dance while having fun and making new friends. They enjoy the classes and activities in our 12,000 square foot, air conditioned facility.
All levels include dance training in ballet, jazz, acro, lyrical and musical theatre. Camp hours are from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, with extended hours available. Children work in groups according to age and skill level.
Here are our 2018 summer camps. Our dance camps are a great value and very popular, with many themes selling out each year. Limited space available!
July 9-13 Moana
July 16-20 Trolls
July 23-27 Beauty and the Beast
Aug 13-17 Zootopia
Aug 20-24 Frozen


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Siege Hero
49,096 plays
Siege Hero
Posted on September 22, 2011.
Game file size of 7.87 MB.
Use your catapult to bring down massive structures and crush every soldier you see in them. If you don't run out of rocks, you will advance to a new round. Siege Hero is presented to you by SolidGames.com and is sponsored by Armor Games. This shooting game has been played 49,096 times by our visitors and currently has a rating of after 1,341 votes.
Also from this series:
Siege Hero 2 | Siege Hero 3 | Siege Hero 4 | Siege Hero 5
Catapult Games | Demolition Games | Castle Games | Physics Games


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With the smartphone, humans are connected in a way that was not possible just a few years ago. qaZING is about harnessing the potential of the smartphone and helping people get things done.
qaZING (pronounced "kah-zing") is about empowering people. It is about putting a new tool in the hands of everyone - a 'button' for people who need something done, and a 'wallet' for people who want to earn some extra money at their convenience.
To empower people. To change the way people get things done, and the way people earn extra money - all over the world.
While we are starting in the United States, we believe the demand for our business model is global, and we aim to revolutionize the way the world gets things done, providing an efficient, on-demand, and local solution to service providers and consumers in countries all over the planet.
qaZING is a startup in the On Demand Economy. We provide a one-stop app solution for a locally based marketplace that connects service providers with consumers and businesses. Unlike vertical players in the On Demand Economy that focus on a single marketplace (i.e. taxi service, or dog walkers), qaZING believes the most efficient model puts help of all kinds at the push of a single button. We believe this model is more efficient for Customers seeking help, more efficient for Providers interested in earning extra money, and more efficient for the platform providing this service (for example just add up all the marketing dollars it would take to build a brand for an App for dog-walkers, then add marketing dollars to build a brand for an App for technical support, then add marketing dollars for an App for cleaners, errand runners, tutors, deliveries, elder care, etc. and you will understand the inefficiencies).
We believe a single platform, with a single brand to build, that can scale globally is much more efficient!
The qaZING categories include, but are not limited to:
qaZING has a business model meant to facilitate hyper-local connections in a highly technological world. Our model connects customers with local providers in real-time, notifying certain skilled providers whenever a customer "qaZINGs" something in their skill area. Through mutual ratings, reviews, and optional background checks, accountability and trust our number-one core values.
With the smartphone, humans are connected in a way that was not possible just a few years ago. qaZING is about harnessing the potential of the smartphone and helping people get things done.
Just how big is this market? Because qaZING's model offers the service of receiving help in several market sectors at the convenience of one button, we believe there is an enormous market.
In the US alone, we believe that this market exceeds $200 Billion - nearly 800% larger than the taxi market. For the source of this data please see our offering memorandum.
Note: Please refer to our offering memorandum for the source of this data.
As many Venture Capitalist will tell you, early stage investing is the most risky. If you ask them why they invest in early stage opportunities, they will likely tell you they do it for the financial upside potential of early stage deals.
Here's a unique opportunity to play "VC" and own part of an early stage, exciting company!
Lets unite and empower as many people as possible!
Together we can revolutionize how the world gets things done.
The time is now - the technology stars have alligned, and thanks to the Smartphone, our business model, that which was never possible before, is now possible!
In our pockets we now have powerful computers with:
Our company is run by young, technologically savvy entrepreneurs with a strong bench of advisors. Check out our "team" tab for more information!
The company's initial funding is from PeoplesVC, which lends hundreds of years of collective experience in marketing, technology, growth management, and/or finance.
Thank you for considering this investment - we hope you will join our company and help us change the way the world gets things done!


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Photo Credit – Chris Langston
Love cats? Love dogs? Love comedy? The Hoboken Comedy Festival is offering an amazing lineup and a chance to help out a great cause this year, and you will have the chance to finally bring your real best friend out to watch some comedy– your dog.
Hoboken, New Jersey's sixth annual comedy festival benefitting the Liberty Humane Society has announced an impressive line up of headliners and other comedians. Artie Lange, Robert Kelly, Charlamagne tha God, Andrew Schulz, Yannis Pappas, Derek GAines, Moody McCarthy, Wil Sylvince, Matt Pavich and Matt Richards are just a few of the comedians who will be lending their voices to the festival which runs from September 28th through October 4th. You'll also have the chance to see Matteo Lane, Seaton Smith, Akaash Singh, and a taping of Artie Lange's podcast.
Organized by Dan Frigolette, the annual festival raises money to benefit Jersey City's Liberty Humane Society, an animal shelter that fosters a community of compassion and respect. This year the festival will also donate o support the Hoboken Volunteer Ambulance Corps. All beverage sales during the festival including the beer garden event will benefit the Hoboken EMS.
The festival will feature 80 comedians in 7 days. In addition to the headlining comedians, the festival also supports plenty of new and rising talent. Monday through Thursday will feature five "New Talent" performers who can win their respective night by impressing a panel of industry judges, comprised of talent bookers from all over the New York City area. One winner from each week night will be asked to come back and perform on the early and late shows on Friday and Saturday. The most successful new talent comedian of the weekend will then open for Artie Lange on Sunday October 4th and be the overall winner of the 2015 Hoboken Comedy Festival.
Every night there will also be special outdoor matinee performances giving you the opportunity to show off your best four legged companions to your comedy friends. Save the date October 4th for the ALL STAR DOG FRIENDLY SHOW w Beer Garden at 2PM.
The festival will close with a ground breaking performance from Hoboken's own Artie Lange.
The Hoboken Comedy Festival will take place over seven days from September 28th through October 4th at the Bow Tie Cinemas on 14th Street in Hoboken. For more information, tickets full schedules, and more donation opportunities please visit www.hobokencomedyfestival.org.


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Bonjwing Lee is a food writer and photographer based in Kansas City, Missouri.
Most recently, he photographed and co-authored "bluestem, the cookbook" with Colby Garrelts, a Food & Wine Best New Chef and five-time James Beard Award nominee, and his wife, Megan.
Bonjwing's photographs have also appeared in numerous publications, including The Wall Street Journal, Food & Wine Magazine, and Scanorama Portfolio, the inflight magazine for Scandinavian Airlines. He has also photographed at culinary events around the world, including the Bocuse d'Or in Lyon, France and the James Beard Awards in New York City. He is a regular writer and a photographer for KC Magazine and the author of the blog, "the ulterior epicure."
Bonjwing holds a Bachelors of Science in Radio, Television, and Film from Northwestern University (2000) in Evanston, Illinois and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Michigan Law School (2006) in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Prior to taking up a career as a full-time photographer and writer, he worked in Hollywood as a web designer for Sony Pictures Entertainment, as an aide to a U.S. Senator in Washington, D.C., and practiced corporate and aviation law in Kansas City.


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The Colombia Ecuador Border Crossing at Ipiales
Written by Logan and Brianna Pribbeno
More information at https://panamnotes.com
Exiting Colombia at Ipiales
Remember: No necisita ayuda. Por favor, dejame in paz, no voy a pagar. Vaya!
Zero fees on both sides
- There is a large parking area to the left, past both DIAN and Colombian immigration.
- Cancel your Colombian vehicle permit at the DIAN office. An official will take your permit and send you on your way.
- Receive an exit stamp at the migration office across from DIAN. If you see a bus pulling in, get this stamp first to avoid the long wait.
- There are zero fees to exit Colombia.
Entering Ecuador
Remember: No necisita ayuda. Por favor, dejame in paz, no voy a pagar. Vaya!
Zero fees on both sides
- Park your vehicle past the "Point of Control" checkpoint and in front of the "Das Rumichaca" office.
- Backtrack to the center of this same building to receive your entry stamp at immigration. We have read there is no need to fill out the Andean migration form but it was required for us.
- Head back to the office where you parked your vehicle. The official will check your VIN and request one copy (plus verify originals) of your title, driver's license, and passport.
- There are zero fees to enter Ecuador.
- Ecuador uses the United States dollar.
EXCHANGE RATE (as of 6/17/11):
$1 US = $1787.50 Colombian Pesos
This information is free and we encourage recirculation, we only ask for a shout-out to PanAmNotes.com.
Please email with any questions or corrections: email@example.com.
Buen viaje!


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Why Is My Shoutcast Server Private? Was a question asked recently by someone on the Shoutcast forums.
The user then goes on to say he is using the free Shoutcast service "Listen2MyRadio"
That's exactly where his problem lies.
Listen2MyRadio don't allow users Shoutcast servers to be public, Even if you have set your encoder to public.
It's another huge drawback with a free shoutcast service as you have to get your listeners to tune in via a webpage on their domain.
You could ask their technical support department if they will make your server public but we guess the answer will always be NO.
It's not even as if the free service on @listen2myradio is any good in the first place It always buffered when I tried the service about 10+ years ago.
I don't think it's improved any since I last signed up for a server to test.
"The only way you will get your shoutcast server listed publicly on the shoutcast YP is by paying a host $$$ for a server with listener slots.
Also steer clear of Shoutcast/Icecast hosts that claim to offer "Unlimited" listeners… There NO such thing as "Unlimited" every server maxes out bandwidth eventually.
Last updated on: 31st May 2019
at 16:29 PM Europe/London


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Macy's Heart of Haiti ~ A Mother's Day Gift Supporting "Trade, Not Aid"
This Mother's Day, I'm working with Clever Girls in support of Macy's Heart of Haiti to shine a light on the "Trade, Not Aid" program, which provides sustainable income to Haitian artisans struggling to rebuild their lives and support their families after the 2010 earthquake.
|Photo source: Macy's
What is Macy's Heart of Haiti? Heart of Haiti is a "Trade, Not Aid" initiative launched by artist and social entrepreneur, Willa Shalit, The Clinton Bush Haiti Fund and Macy's. Already, Heart of Haiti has led to employment of 750 artists in Haiti, providing financial benefits for an estimated 8,500 people in the country.
|Photo source: Macy's
Macy's sent me one Heart of Haiti Goddess Necklace to review and another to give away to a special person in my life. Here's how I decided to whom I'd bestow the gift:
As a mother, it is important for me to teach generosity and philanthropy to my girls. I keep the girls active in altruistic deeds for our community and for others around the world. During the holidays, my girls take part in a coat drive and work at a local soup kitchen. My eldest daughter volunteers her time at the Salvation Army helping to distribute toys. The girls participate in beach clean-ups and have raised money for projects in developing countries and to promote conservation and preservation of endangered animals.
|That's my daughter pictured above.
This month, through their karate studio, the girls are raising money for St. Jude. It's an annual activity and is part of "Martial Arts of St. Jude". This year, one of the karate students was diagnosed with cancer, so the annual drive has taken on a more personal nature. So, it is with the family and the mother of that child (and all the others at St. Jude) in mind that I'm raffling off the Heart of Haiti Goddess Necklace (and a $20 Macy's Gift Card) for a $1 donation to St. Jude. 100% of the proceeds will go to "Martial Arts for St. Jude". I'll be using random.org to draw a winner on May 19.
If you'd like a chance to win the gift card and necklace, you can enter HERE.


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Jeri Ryan's father was in the military, so the family moved around the country every few years, following him from post to post. Wherever they landed, corn on the cob was a staple of their Fourth of July picnics. For this salad, Ryan departs from tradition, cutting the kernels off the cob and tossing them with cherry tomatoes, diced zucchini, garlic, shallot and herbs. Roasted poblano chiles add a slightly smoky flavor. More Salad Recipes
How to Make It
Roast the poblanos over a gas flame until charred all over. Transfer to a plate and let cool. Discard the skin and seeds and cut the poblanos into 1/2-inch dice.
In a large saucepan of boiling salted water, cook the corn until tender, about 3 minutes. Drain well.
In a large, deep skillet, heat the olive oil. Add the corn and zucchini and cook over moderately high heat, until lightly browned on the bottom, about 5 minutes. Reduce the heat to moderate and add the poblanos, scallions, garlic, shallot and thyme and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool to room temperature. Stir in the tomatoes and cilantro, season with salt and pepper and serve.


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Splurge! magazine readers are treated to a peek inside the highly anticipated Ambassador Hotel Wichita located in the historic Union National Bank Building at the corner of Broadway and Douglas. Built in 1926 as a Chicago-style skyscraper, the 14-story building was the tallest building in Kansas upon its completion. Vacant for the past 12 years the building is in the midst of a multimillion dollar renovation. The historic splendor of the building will be maintained as the Ambassador Hotel is transformed into downtown Wichita's premier luxury, boutique hotel. Executive Vice President, Michael Frimel reports that construction is on schedule to be ready for the grand opening in December 2012. Perfect timing for a New Year's Celebration!
Sophisticated luxury
The Ambassador Hotel's 117 guest rooms and suites are each uniquely configured to highlight the building's character. Over sized accommodations welcome guests with rich, soothing tones of gray, cream and deep purple. Plush, inviting textures and custom mattresses enveloped in luxurious linens create a sophisticated and truly inviting respite. Large windows invite natural light and sweeping city views create a sense of urban luxury.
Sleek marble bathrooms have large walk-in showers, sumptuous monogrammed robes and luxurious bath amenities. Refrigerators situated in each room include complimentary water bottles and an honor bar stocked with snacks. Keurig coffee makers, high-definition flat panel televisions, iPod docking stations and free wireless internet service provide guests with the comforts of home. Ten, one-bedroom suites feature king sized beds, additional spacious seating areas and deep soaking tubs in addition to the walk-in shower.
Perched on the top floor with over 1,000 square feet of luxury is the Rock Star Suite. Double doors open to reveal a gathering space complete with fireplace, a 55 television and an inviting seating area filled with natural light. An expansive dining table is ideal for board meetings or celebratory meals. The bar area includes a compact serving kitchen and an additional half-bathroom. A windowed corridor leads to the king sized master suite with a private seating area and an enormous bathroom with a deep steeping tub, marbled walk-in shower, double vanity and dressing room. Guests of this suite have rock-star views stretching from the clock tower on Friends University campus to the lights over Cessna Stadium at Wichita State.
Service above and beyond
The Ambassador Hotel will cater to Wichita's discerning business and leisure travelers. Luxury airport ground transportation is offered as a convenience to hotel guests. Valet and convenient on-site parking are also available.
Turn-down service welcomes guests as they enter their room each evening and a 24-hour business center is available for last-minute business prep. Concierge services will assist travelers with any imaginable need during their visit. The Ambassador Hotel recognizes and welcomes pets as a part of the family. If notified in advance, four legged guests will have a pet bed, water and food bowls situated in their room prior to arrival.
Promising to marry historic charm with contemporary design and unmatched personalized service, The Ambassador Hotel Wichita opens this December.
This faithful attention to detail is perfectly reflected in the personalized service that a guest encounters at each Ambassador Hotel in Tulsa, Kansas City and Wichita. Think of it as grand style and service on a truly intimate scale.
Upscale dining
Positioned on the ground floor, the Siena Tuscan Steakhouse will feature an upscale, yet approachable menu with an Italian flourish. A floor-to- ceiling custom wine display will greet diners as they enter the restaurant. The open flow of the dining area and lounge is intimately inviting.
Siena Tuscan Steakhouse will add to downtown Wichita's dining options - from pre-theater dessert and coffee to cocktails after work. Hotel guests and locals will enjoy the outdoor seating area along Douglas Street that allows diners to enjoy the urban atmosphere.
Celebratory and business functions welcome
Three conference rooms create the perfect setting for intimate gatherings and business meetings. The Regent Room is the largest with a seated dining capacity of 120 guests. The historic architectural details of the building are highlighted in the Regent Room. Arched windows and soaring ceilings create an elegant backdrop for any occasion. The Regent Room is adjacent to the Viceroy Room with expanded seating for an additional 70. The Board Room provides an intimate meeting space accommodating approximately 10. The Study is a gathering space available for use by hotel guests during their stay. Featuring soft seating and a warm ambiance, The Study is a quiet place to read, lounge and congregate. The Ambassador Hotel Wichita is currently accepting bookings for conference rooms in 2013.
Behind the scene
Real estate investor and developer Paul Coury has a fascination with historic buildings. Coury is the founder of the Ambassador Hotel Collection which specializes in turning landmark buildings into luxury hotel properties. The Collection's most recent opening in Kansas City marks the fifth historic hotel development project for Coury and his team.


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Farmers Insurance Agent Jim Klockenkemper poses with teachers Angie Baumgartner and Amy Green, two recipients of the agency's Thank America's Teachers grants for educational materials and supplies. Teachers can pick up an application at the agency's office, 603 W. Delmar in Alton, or call (618) 466-9535.
The James Klockenkemper Farmers Insurance Agency appreciates teachers and their personal efforts in helping students succeed, and is now taking applications for $100 grants for individual teachers.
So far, teachers Angie Baumgartner and Amy Green have been awarded a grant for educational materials and equipment.
As part of the agency's Thank America's Teachers campaign, Klockenkemper will award grants to three teachers from three separate schools in the area each month.
"We appreciate everything the teachers do and realize that many teachers use their own funds to buy necessary supplies for their classroom and lessons," Klockenkemper said. "We hope to help individual teachers and schools through our funding."
Klockenkemper owns a full-service insurance and investment agency and also provides Illinois vehicle license plates, renewals, and title work.
In the fall, Farmers Insurance is sponsoring a special nationwide contest to award teachers $2,500, and Klockenkemper said he hopes teachers, parents, and students will become involved. Additional information about this contest is forthcoming.
"Our teachers in this area, both the public and private schools, go the extra mile to help their students succeed; they deserve these awards," he said.
Teachers can apply for the $100 grant by requesting an application at (618) 466-9535, in person at the James Klockenkemper Agency next to Walgreens in North Alton, or by emailing firstname.lastname@example.com.
Klockenkemper urges teachers to apply soon so August and September funding is fully awarded.


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Contributing Author Profile: James Gallagher
Contributing Editor: Kasey EmmonsJames ("Jim") Gallagher began his legal career as an Officer and Judge Advocate for the United States Marine Corps: serving as prosecutor, defense counsel, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Hawaii. From 2006 through 2009, Jim was involved in the prosecution and defense of more than 100 courts-martial. In 2008, Jim deployed to Karmah, Iraq as the Battalion Judge Advocate with 2d Battalion, 3d Marines in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In this role, Jim was the legal advisor to the Battalion's Commanding Officer advising him on issues involving international law, rules of engagement, and laws of war. Jim was also responsible for monitoring detainee operations, military justice, investigations, claims adjudication for the Battalion and serving as a liaison to local Iraqi judicial figures. Jim now practices at Davis, Malm & D'Agostine, P.C. in Boston. Jim's practice encompasses advising individuals and businesses on a wide variety of business, employment and litigation issues. Jim represents clients in these issues in both state and federal courts and in front of multiple administrative bodies.


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In Pitchfork's new column, Schnip's Picks, editor Matthew Schnipper identifies unheralded music and sings its praises. For the first edition, he looks at Gavin Russom and Delia Gonzalez's 2005 album, The Days of Mars.
Watching LCD Soundsystem play "Saturday Night Live" in May, I thought, Who is that keyboard player in the little brown fez? Over James Murphy's shoulder, she was doing this weird skank, having the time of her life. It was not until the next day, when the world became similarly besotted with her performance through a variety of GIFs, that I realized this new member was an old one: Gavin Russom, longtime LCD compatriot and stalwart electronic producer. I'd failed to recognize Russom, whose work I'd followed closely for the past decade. Perhaps I was not alone. Shortly after the "SNL" performance, Russom told the world she is transgender.
Russom's statement, and the relief present in it, made her "SNL" exuberance seem even greater. The outpouring of support for her was encouraging and exciting to witness. All the attention she garnered talking about gender is likely much greater than any she's received in the past for her music. As a longtime supporter, I had to chuckle a little; perhaps this news might draw some attention to Russom's extensive catalog of really excellent house tracks in a way my various praise over the years never could.
In her interview about being transgender, Russom said her gender identity and her music have always been intertwined. "Retroactively, this is a thread that goes through my entire body of work," she told us. "It's an interesting way to listen to it if you weren't already getting that." Putting her music through that prism, what changes? With minor exceptions, her music doesn't have any words. What has she been trying to communicate? Russom said that coming out as trans now allows her to be a "whole person." Could she have been using a different kind of malleable language, a way to communicate without labels or pronouns? If you don't have to categorize yourself, can it be easier to be who you are? Perhaps it's a safe way to share what is secret without having to say it.
Russom has remained present in my mind since her story was published, and I've revisited much of her music, including a personal favorite, The Days of Mars, her collaborative album recorded with producer Delia Gonzalez. It's four songs; on vinyl, it's a double LP with one song per side, plenty of space for each track to spread out. It's ambient music at heart, though calling it techno wouldn't be wrong, either. Neither genre, though, had much of a toehold in indie culture when it was released in 2005, somewhat incongruously, on James Murphy's DFA label, then best known for introducing the indie world to the pleasures of disco. The Days of Mars feels like it'd rather introduce you to meditation and the films of John Cassavetes. The record consists of repetitious, coiled notes plodding along underneath long sci-fi tones, reminiscent of the late 1960s work of Terry Riley, plunged into an acid bath. The music swells, ascending, like steam. It generally feels positive and energetic in the way a tough workout does, struggling to get through while pushing for that reward of finally being spent.
There are so many moments of ecstasy in The Days of Mars, but they always come with an undercurrent of turmoil. Listening, unknowingly, we were part of the push and pull between Russom's inner and outer life. In sound, that translated as a beautiful type of blossoming. Speaking to me in 2008 about her next project after The Days of Mars, Russom said of her move to Berlin, "I have a lot more space to listen and reflect on things."
The Days of Mars is a work of great feeling, but the following three 12" singles Russom released as Black Meteoric Star are straight-up hard. "Death Tunnel" begins with a sci-fi pulse and drums that sound like a chain being whipped. It's Berlin-y as all hell, and will do well to be played at nightclubs from now unto time eternal. But, man, is it no fun. It's functional music, sexy even at times, but lacking in the luminescence of The Days of Mars. "Dreamcatcher" has a romantic title at least, but it still sounds like something Hannibal Lecter would love. Where's the joy Russom is capable of? Imagining the "SNL" skanker hunched over a series of sequencers, banging out such intense drum work, is difficult now. What these records show, at least, is enormous technical proficiency. Whatever was on her mind day to day, Russom's skill as a musician began to reach its peak during this period. Which makes her next move, forming the big band the Crystal Ark after returning to New York, all the more surprising.
The Crystal Ark were, I hate to say it, pretty bad: a hippie disco cult of sorts, with dancers, bilingual Spanish/English lyrics, all white outfits, and a deeply clumsy sense of rhythm. But at least it was fun! I saw the group perform a number of times, most notably at Brooklyn's Sugar Hill Disco club six or seven years ago. There was a crew of people onstage, loads of percussion, skimpy clothes, and generally wild shaking from all involved. It was freeing (if, again, not very good). Russom seemed to be having a hell of a time, and through the 20/20 vision of history, that seems like a blessing. Take, for instance, 2012's "We Came To" video, in which Russom does slo-mo voguing and takes control of some kind of "Star Trek" command station. In the credits, she's noted as playing "Alien Lady Transmission." If you can't be yourself, be someone else entirely.
"Do you think a trans woman can be a synthesizer technician?" Russom said she once asked herself. Yes, of course! But the more pertinent question to my ears is: What kind of musician can a synthesizer technician be? Our most recent piece of evidence is an instrumental single Russom released in 2016 under her own name, called "Psychic Decolonization." That's quite a title; it seems the world and its masters have exited her brain and only acid house remains. The EP is similar to the Black Meteoric Star—precise, if cold. There is an openness missing from Russom's work that The Days of Mars accomplished so excellently. These tracks feel military where Mars felt vulnerable. There is one track, though, that points to new possibilities: "Let the Bones Speak," which is just five minutes of static. It could not be further from LCD Soundsystem, from jubilant bouncing on national TV, if it tried. But it doesn't feel dark, only transitory. It's the in-between noise picked up while tuning between stations, the sound of a journey from one destination to the next.


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A broke Bedfordshire retailer has been electronically tagged after pleading guilty to modifying 34 Virgin Media set-top boxes.
The court heard that James Howard, 49, of Drove Road, Biggleswade defrauded Virgin Media of up to £50,000 with the unauthorised decoder devices, which he sold from his local shop, Electro Exchange. But Howard had personally made just £2000 in profit.
He was £35,000 in debt and maxed out on four credit cards when he started selling the dodgy decoders.
Defence brief Andy Brumhill said: "Mr Howard is the owner of a small one man outfit and is struggling heavily. He cannot afford to employ anyone at his business and is at the shop premises every day even when it is not open to complete paperwork."
Howard must stay at home between 9pm and 7am for the next three months and has been ordered to pay £2000 in compensation to Virgin Media.
Sponsored: Webcast: Simplify data protection on AWS


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Yet ANOTHER HIDDEN positive yelp review of halevy life (802 lexington avenue new york, ny 10065)
It's extremely surprising, I'm sure, for those of you following the saga of Yelp's unethical business practices. But lo and behold, yet ANOTHER positive review was filtered in under 24 hours. This takes our current tally to 19 filtered reviews, 7 viewable (which includes one completely phony one — can you guess which one? HINT: "Banana" LOL). Yelp claims that rela reviews "occasionally" get filtered. I guess occasionally means 73% of the time??? Oh Yelp…thanks for nothing! Here's the review from our client Michelle Hannah:


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You've got Grundig Warming Drawers to keep you warm!
There's no secret to home entertaining success: cook early, serve later.
But, how do you really make that happen? Though there is an array of wonderful canapés and main courses that can be served at room temperature, sometimes nothing beats an appetiser, main course or dessert served piping hot!
That's why homeowners looking to offer their dinner guests the Michelin-inspired dining experience are looking to convenient warming drawers as a solution. Convenient warming drawers are the latest kitchen appliance trend for discerning homeowners who want to emulate the professional kitchen experience at home.
Featuring 4 temperature settings between 40°C to 80°C, and 5 heating features, the Grundig GWS 2152 B Handleless Warming Drawer has the power and precision to execute a number of tasks, including food warming and reheating, defrosting, dough proofing and dish warming! Imagine the peace of mind you could have knowing that there is a perfect place for your baguette dough to rise without being disturbed, or that your soup dishes won't cool down your lobster bisque upon serving! With a 25 kg load capacity, the Grundig Handleless Warming Drawer also has enough space to handle even the biggest tasks with ease. It can hold up to 6 large plates, or 6 large soup bowls, or platters up to 19 cm long!
Furthermore, the cross fan flow of the Grundig Handleless Warming Drawer ensures that every dish is heated to perfection. Moist foods like chicken stews with tarragon stay moist, dishes with a crisp exterior like a roast chicken, remain crisp, desserts that should be served with a tender crust, are served with a tender crust – up to 4 hours after you cook them!
Made of black glass and stainless steel, the Grundig Handleless Warming Drawer, is a completely built-in model that makes maximum use of whatever space it is placed (while it maximises your culinary prowess). Previously unused, or underused spaces in particular are the best locations for your convenient warming drawer. If you're not sure where to place your warming drawer, consider the unused end of a peninsula, the short end of a long island, or directly under the oven, next to the hob, for a streamlined cooking centre. The Grundig's handle-free front also makes it the ideal addition to a fully integrated kitchen design, or a kitchen outfitted with built-in appliances.


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For years now, our Mac applications have been available for purchase both direct from our Omni Store, as well as Apple's Mac App Store.
Whether you decide to purchase direct from us or through the Mac App Store, you get an identical product with all the same functionality. The applications will store files in slightly different locations depending on if you purchase direct or through the App Store, but the overall operation of the applications remains the same.
There are different benefits to each store:
The Mac App Store lets you purchase, download, and install our updates all in one place. Your purchase gets tied to the Apple ID you used to buy the app, and updates will be installed along with OS updates and other apps you've purchased from the store.
Through our website we offer much more flexible terms and options: upgrade pricing, volume discounts, as well as educational pricing through our EDU Store. Omni Store customers also have access to OmniStaging prerelease test builds, faster updates, and the ability to run older versions. For example, with an OmniOutliner 4 license you can opt to run any 4.x release from our archives — 4.1.4, 4.1.1, 4.0.6, and so forth — rather than just the latest revision.
You're welcome to purchase from whichever store better suits your preference! Please note that we are unable to migrate customers from our store to the Mac App Store, or vice versa.
We offer a 30-day guarantee on all of our products purchased from this website—our own Omni Group Store. When we can, we do the same with Apple's App Stores. But please remember that the 30-day guarantee is not intended to take the place of a trial period: we pay 30% of our App Store sales to Apple whether or not we refund a purchase. If you'd like to try one of our Mac apps, we have two-week trial downloads available on each of our product pages.Last Modified: Dec 17, 2019


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I stole this link from Izzi, who stole it on her turn from Mischa and had a heck of a lot of fun.
From, Arima, Ha Ana Za!
My photo morphed as an East-Asian person
Me as an African.
Baby Tarek
El Greco
Amedeo Clemente Modigliani
Let's tag, Blueue, Zeinobia, JPierre, Layal, and Sou.
Tags: CGI, Graphics, Computers, Phun, Gr33n Data


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Kidney bean eating challenge
Ashleigh and Logan were chosen to represent Totara in the kidney bean eating challenge on Friday. They volunteered to eat 1/2 a can of cold kidney beans to help raise awareness of kidney problems. They both said they weren't that nice but not as bad as they thought they would be. They were beaten by Cory from R8 who was crowned the Arrowsmith champion!


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Styling hair is so much fun, and the Baby Alive Cute Hairstyles Baby doll is a stylish girl who loves to get her hair done! Use the included brush and comb to style her long hair -- try a braid, ponytail, or something totally new. After brushing and styling, add in color-streaked hair extensions or decorative barrettes. For even more fun, kids can also wear them to match her style! Girls and boys can also feed her a bottle and -- ut oh! She wets her diaper, too! Clean her up and change her into a fresh diaper before playing with her hair some more.
• Includes doll, outfit, brush, comb, bottle, 2 diapers, 2 hair extensions, 3 hair clips, headband, spray bottle, and hair dryer accessory.
• Doll has beautiful, long hair
• Comes with hair styling accessories
• She drinks her bottle and wets her diaper
• Ages 3 and up.
• Warning: Choking hazard - Small parts may be generated. Not for children under 3 years.
• Only use the included brush and comb on doll's hair. Do not wet her hair or use any styling products or appliances.


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You can't fail to have noticed that this month it's 30 years since the first Star Wars film came out. Star Wars is a significant part of the culture, no matter what you think of it. I'm in the "original trilogy good, new trilogy bad camp", as you can tell from this cartoon ...
It was in Private Eye in 2005 when the film came out. Cheekily, I drew it before I saw the film! This next one was one of my first published cartoons, it appeared in Maxim ten years ago.
And this is probably my favourite of my Star Wars cartoons. It was sold to The Publican magazine.
Then there's this one, the only topical one of the lot. This was in Private Eye in 1999 and was about the Millennium Bug, and the fact that we were apparently ill-prepared for the inevitable disaster. Oddly, that now seems like a science-fiction story far more dated than Star Wars.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Star Wars cartoons: May the gags be with you
3 comments:
I absolutely love your cartoons - these starwars ones are spot on! You are one of the greats.ReplyDelete
Grateful for your comment I am ... as Yoda might say ;-)ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 04, 2008
I love your Star Wars cartoons. I also like to draw those cartoons, see my homepage.
And do you want to participate in our Star Wars Cartoon contest?
ToonsUp is a site where everyone can publish and share their work.
You can think of it as a kind of YouTube or MySpace specifically aimed at comic artists.
Ron (Ronald Markworth)
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


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Scholarship Deadline: June 20, 2016
Scholarship Value: $1,500
Number of Scholarships - 3
Showcase your ideas on public policy and the role of markets by entering our essay competition.
1. $9,000 in cash prizes awarded this year.
2. Special category for high school students only.
3. Winning essays may be published in Fraser Institute journals


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Everything from environmental monitoring to medical diagnostics could benefit from recent research conducted by a professor with the University of Houston Cullen College of Engineering.
The research involves an advance to a molecular detection technique known as surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, or SERS. It was conducted by Wei-Chuan Shih, assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering, who published his findings in a recent issue of the journal Nanoscale.
In standard Raman spectroscopy, a laser is shined on an area that is believed to contain unknown molecules. How that laser light scatters, as evidenced by its change in color, can reveal whether and what kind of molecules are present.
In surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, the sample being studied is placed on a surface with plasmonic properties. Essentially, when a laser is shined on such a surface, it creates an enhanced electrical field. This field in turn enhances the ability of nearby molecules to scatter the laser light. As a result, a smaller number of molecules can generate more scattered light, resulting in improved detection sensitivity.
Existing SERS substrates consist of nanostructures or nanoparticles made of noble metals such as gold or silver. They have small surface coverage, produce highly variable results and have small active surface areas. Shih's new SERS substrate, however, features a surface area many times larger and thus an increased number of sensing "hot spots."
Shih's advance centers around a hierarchical gold nanostructure – nanoporous gold disks each measuring 500 nanometers (nm) in diameter and 75 nm thick with an internal porous network 7 nm in diameter. The nanofabrication of this structure is carried out in the lab of Jack Wolfe, electrical and computer engineering professor and a co-author of the paper. "Jack's expertise and capabilities in nanofabrication are essential to make this unique hierarchical nanostructure," said Shih.
The synergy between the disk shape and the internal pores, he said, drastically improves the ability to sense nearby molecules. Exactly how, though, is an intriguing scientific question. "I think the magic arises from plasmonic coupling between the disk shape and the nanopores. You don't see this improvement in a uniform nanoporous thin film," Shih said. "The cross-length scale plasmonic coupling, if proven true, would be a new discovery. Our nanoporous gold disk provides a unique platform to unravel this."
Besides intriguing science, this SERS substrate has an enhancement factor larger than 100 million.
"If you need 100 million molecules in order to sense them using standard Raman spectroscopy, that's your detection limit and you cannot see less than that," Shih said. "With this technology, you can go from needing those 100 million molecules to being able to see just one. Your detection limit is improved." A standard commercial SERS substrate, he added, has an enhancement factor of 1 million.
In addition to being more sensitive, this substrate has several other benefits. The variability among the gold disks is low, yielding for consistent results from one test to another. What's more, the disks on the substrate can be cleaned with water or even a bath of hydrosulfuric acid, allowing the sensing surface to be used in harsh environment or to be regenerated.
This is just the latest SERS-related work Shih has undertaken. Last year he was awarded an NSF CAREER Award to develop a high-speed, high-efficiency SERS sensor technology, as well as a NASA Early Career Faculty grant to create an environmental monitoring system that relies on SERS and related sensing technologies for use on space missions.


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Chocolate goes with anything, even wine
The recent revelation that chocolate, specifically dark because it has less sugar, is actually "good for you" was something that many of us have known for ages.
Chocolate makes us feel good. It is more than just the deliciousness, the richness, the aromas and the intense flavors. Chocolate just seems to make things better, right?
So scientific evidence that dark chocolate is loaded with antioxidants and a bit of iron and that eating chocolate causes our body to produce endorphins (the burst of productive energy you get from exercise as well as the giddy glow of falling in love) was just the excuse we needed to justify learning more about chocolate!
The market responded. A multitude of small businesses have blossomed by developing new ways to enjoy chocolate. There are cocoas with chunks of cocoa nibs (the raw bean from the cocoa plant) as well as cocoas blended with rose petals and spices. New chocolate bars made with no added sugars but filled with nuts and fruit are offered as 'fuel' bars.
There are drinking chocolates, like the intensely smooth creamy cups served at Peterson's Gallery in Baker City and even wine and beers made with chocolate.
If you consult the internet, the convenient encyclopedia of our times, you'll find dozens (if not hundreds) of contradictions about pairing wine with chocolate. Everyone has an opinion and there are "rules'"about what wines should be paired with what foods.
I've always, and not so secretly, believed that rules were made for breaking. I'd even say that regarding chocolate, those rules are so "last century." It's not like we're suggesting serving Woodward Canyon Cabernet with Hershey's Kisses!
Really good chocolate desserts are more about texture, intensity and layers of flavors than just sugar sweetness. That's where the marriage of wine becomes an interesting conversation.
In general, the wine should be sweeter than the chocolate you're serving it with. If you want to serve red wine, you'll find that bittersweet chocolate works best whether you choose dark chocolate truffles, Pots de Creme or the Bella CocoaNut Tea Cake.
The two reds that go well with dark chocolate are the also the main grapes grown in the Northwest, Pinot noir from the Willamette Valley and Cabernet Sauvignon from the Columbia Valley/ Walla Walla area.
Pinot noir is considered the most "feminine" of reds and can be multi-faceted, haunting, sensual, earthy, subtle and even ethereal. It's a wine I describe as curvy and soft, a wine for lovers!
Cabernet Sauvignon tends to be more powerful and bold. It can have complex aromas including plums, berries, cedar, smoke, leather and tends to be lush and velvety when well made. It's got strong shoulders and long lean lines, it's the real cowboy (cowgirl) of the wine world.
There are dessert wines from around the world that pair well with chocolate.
Orange Muscat with white chocolate. Ruby Port with milk chocolate and Tawny Port for chocolate with nuts. Madeira with Chocolate Dipped Strawberries (a game changing combination!) Banyuls (and wines like Maury) are perfect for Chocolate Dipped Apricots or Chocolate Orange gelato.
Moscato and the softer sparking wines like Cremant, Cava, Loire and Limoux (which are also the best values in bubbly wine) are a safe bet for any chocolate dessert from profiteroles, pavlova and petit fours to peppermint patties.
Chocolate is one of the delights of life that we give special attention to in the month of February. Like fine wine, it's something that with moderate indulgence can elevate any moment to a more memorable and cherished page in our collected stories. Cin Cin!
Beverly Calder owns Bella.


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UFC on FOX 13: Dos Santos vs. Miocic airs tonight, December 13th, 2014 from the Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. The event is the first that the organization has hosted in Arizona. Zuffa previously hosted the final World Extreme Cagefighting event, WEC 53, in nearby Glendale in 2010.
The event is headlined by a heavyweight bout between Junior dos Santos and Stipe Miocic. The co-main event sees the return of Nate Diaz, who missed weight on his first attempt at the weigh ins, weighting in at 160.6 pounds. He was given additional time to make the lightweight limit, but didn't attempt to cut further. Instead, he will be fined 20 percent of his purse, which goes to his opponent, Rafael dos Anjos.
A middleweight bout between Ed Herman and Derek Brunson, slated for the televised preliminary portion of the event was scrapped today, as Brunson was stricken with a stomach ailment.
The main card airs on FOX following prelims on FOX Sports 1 and UFC Fight Pass. The official results begin at approximately 3:30 p.m. ET (12:30 p.m. PT) for the preliminary card and 8 p.m. ET for the main card.
The official results:
Junior Dos Santos def. Stipe Miocic via unanimous decision (48-47, 49-46, 49-46)
Rafael dos Anjos def. Nate Diaz via unanimous decision (30-26, 30-26, 30-27)
Alistair Overeem def. Stefan Struve via knockout (punches) – Round 1, 4:13
Matt Mitrione def. Gabriel Gonzaga via TKO (punches) – Round 1, 1:59
Joanna Jedrzejczyk def. Claudia Gadelha via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
John Moraga def. Willie Gates via submission (rear-naked choke) – Round 3, 4:06
Ben Saunders def. Joe Riggs via submission (injury) – Round 1, 0:57
Drew Dober def. Jamie Varner via submission (rear-naked choke) – Round 1, 1:52
Bryan Barberena def. Joe Ellenberger via TKO (strikes) – Round 3, 3:24
David Michaud def. Garett Whiteley via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)
Henry Cejudo def. Dustin Kimura via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Ian Entwistle def. Anthony Birchak via submission (heel hook) – Round 1, 1:04


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Seeking your views on Lymington Quay - Aug/Sept 19
New Forest District Council (NFDC), Lymington and Pennington Town Council and the Lymington Harbour Commission are inviting people to give their views on improvements to facilities at Lymington Quay. The three organisations are working together to look at improving the public areas of the quayside, including the toilets.
Councillor Alison Hoare, NFDC portfolio holder for environment and regulatory services, said:
"The NFDC toilet block is due for modernisation so we are taking the opportunity to work together with the Town Council and the Harbour Commission to make the most of the opportunity to look at the whole Quay and consider if we could improve it.
"As part of developing our plans, we are asking interested local residents, businesses, river users and visitors to complete a short survey on what they value and what they think could be improved."
Lymington Quay is one of the town's main retail and visitor focal points used by shoppers, tourists and river users including sailors and fishermen. The Quay itself contains two car parks, the slipway, flood wall and the public toilet block, which includes showers for visiting boat users. The quayside also forms an important part of the flood defences of the town, with the public toilets building integrated into this structure.
The three partners are considering improvements now because the NFDC public toilets are due to be upgraded as part of the council's modernisation programme. The council is keen to ensure that any improvements meet the current and future needs of users, as well as maintaining the flood defences of the town.
Lymington and Pennington Town Council sees an opportunity to enhance this part of the town and is considering whether the car parking areas could be transformed into mixed use to provide an area of open space suitable for events and markets.
The NFDC toilet block currently includes shower and washroom facilities provided by Lymington Harbour Commission for visiting yachtsmen and women. The Harbour Commission wishes to upgrade these facilities to help the harbour to compete with other nearby destinations.
More information and a short survey is available at www.newforest.gov.uk/LymQuay (survey has now closed) and paper versions will be available from Lymington Town Hall, NFDC information offices and various shops and businesses at the Quay, from 12 August.
Responses can be submitted until 23 September by completing the survey online or by returning paper survey forms back into Lymington Town Hall or NFDC's Appletree Court offices during office hours.


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Live Earth: We Love Hippies But... (NRDC Video with TreeHugger Founder Graham Hill)
The concert has kicked off, but some out there are still bemoaning Live Earth as insignificant in terms of meeting the challenges of the climate crisis. A shallow spectacle. If aspects of our civilization weren't shallow, would we be in this climate mess in the first place? Let's not fight it, let's adapt it and integrate it. We would even argue that no publicity is bad publicity. Uh, wait, no raising of awareness is bad raising of awareness. How about no consciousness-raising is bad-consciousness-raising? That's "CR" to you dyed-in-the-wool crunchy politicos. Ok, the hairdos, affected accents, and self-effacing self-importance of le music pop of Live Earth may get a bit trying along the way (yes Eskimo Joe, climate change does have something to do with the new iPhone coming out), but there exists a sweet spot between well-intentioned narcism and dropping out. In this NRDC video, TreeHugger's Founder Graham Hill and Media Architect Nick Aster remind us why getting into the green zone of the new aesthetic helps to make a lasting difference.
For 40 years...the green movement and the green aesthetic have been associated with hippies and that market is very served, and it's a very small one. And so to get it to cross over into the mass market, you need to make it compelling and sexy.


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Screencorp is proud to once again work with Tabcorp Park Menangle in providing a LED screen solution as part of their new Grand Stand.
A 6mm screen proudly sits on the wall of the Chairmans lounge displaying HD footage. Patrons are able to view the screen from anywhere within the lounge as it boasts its 180 degree viewing angle.
This is the third screen that Screencorp has installed into Tapcorp Park Menangle. The venue's two outdoor LED Screens were previously installed by Screencorp in recent years. The new indoor screen is a welcome addition to Tapcorp Parks LED Screen family.


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Friday 10 August 2018
14:00 to 15:30
Most events locally are cancelled due to Coronavirus / Covid-19. We will remove this message when government restrictions are lifted, but until then please assume events are not taking place.
You won't believe the creatures that used to call Norfolk home!
Come along and see the remains of some of the amazing beasts that lived here millions of years ago. Keen explorers may be lucky enough to find a fossil to take home. Please arrive 15 mins early to sign up.
Price: Cost: Ł3 NWT members, Ł3.50 non-members. Charge for car park
Location: Meet at Seaview Beach Café, Water Lane, West Runton, North Norfolk Coast, NR27 9QP
norfolk, north, coast, wildlife, trust
Why not stay at Deepdale Backpackers & Camping for 'Fascinating Fossils'
Other Dates For Your Diary
|The Shackleton Trio - Sunday Session
|Sherlock Holmes - Open Air Theatre
|Twelfth Night - Open Air Theatre
|Deepdale Festival 2020
|24/09/2020 to 27/09/2020
|Deepdale Conservation Weekend
|06/11/2020 to 08/11/2020
|Deepdale Christmas Market 2020
|27/11/2020 to 29/11/2020


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Snoop Dogg Net Worth
Snoop Dogg Estates and Homes (1)
Diamond Bar home
Rapper Snoop Dogg owns an eight-bedroom mansion in California, which he bought in 1994 for a multimillion dollar amount. The 6,500 square feet (earlier 3,700 square feet) plush home is currently on sale in market for $1.995 million.
Location: The rappers plush home is located in the calm community of Claremont, Diamond Bar, California, USA.
Accommodation: The pricey home features eight luxurious bedrooms, five and a half baths, dual master suites, a gourmet kitchen, living space, home theater and recording studio. The luxurious rooms have high ceilings while the entrance floor is made of marble. The rapper's one-acre Mediterranean estate also includes an outdoor basketball court and a gorgeous pool for absolute outdoor fun.
Snoop Dogg Hobbies (4)
Beach Bowl
Apart from music, the eminent rapper adores Beach Bowl to death as he has been spotted enjoying the action in the sixth annual Celebrity Beach ball, held in Indianapolis, featuring other eminent faces like Chace Crawford and David Arquette. While playing his favorite Beach Bowl, the rapper looks full of concentration and focuses completely on the game, rather than others.
An avid baseball lover, Snoop Dogg supports his home town team Los Angeles Dodgers, and has made appearance in numerous baseball match events, supporting his favorite team, and even sometimes playing.
The eminent rapper adores football game and is a huge supporter of professional foot ball teams "Pittsburgh Steelers", "Oakland Raiders" and "Dallas Cowboys". Often seen sporting the Pittsburgh Steelers attire during team games, Snoop Dogg even aspires to become the head coach for Steelers. A qualified football coach, rapper Snoop has also worked as the head coach for his son's football teams.
Snoop Dogg loves playing basket ball and has participated in multiple celebrity basketball games to generate funds for community centers. A big supporter of his home town team Los Angeles Lakers, the rapper has also been spotted a number of times cheering in the Lakers game.
Snoop Dogg Autos and Cars (3)
1967 Pontiac Parisienne Convertible
Snoop Dogg's 1967 Pontiac Parisienne Convertible is one of gem in rapper's unique car collection of about 25 cars. The rapper's Pontiac car features a head turning yellow exterior design and a brilliant interior design. The General Motors masterpiece incorporates a dominant V8 engine and a 2 speed automatic transmission. The heavy duty coil spring suspension smoothes the worst road bumps while the hydraulic power steering offers nimble handling. Other high end features of the beautiful car include Vacuum power brakes, electric power windows and Pushbutton AM radio.
Steering wheel
The complete convertible
1967 Pontiac Parisienne Convertible
Brilliant interior design
1967 Cadillac
Snoop Dogg owns a 1967 Cadillac, 4-door hardtop sedan featuring a stunning exterior design. The rapper's customized Cadillac features his name on the front bonnet and incorporates a bunch of practical features. Equipped with a commanding eight cylinder V-type engine, the car delivers 340 hp and 650 Nm torque. The rear suspension incorporates rubber bushings which ensure a quieter, softer ride while the Cadillac variable ratio power steering offers brilliant turning angles for a quick response. Cadillac's spacious cabin includes perfectly positioned comfy seats to enhance the luxury travelling experience.
2008 Dodge Challenger
Snoop's infatuation over cars is evident from his unique car collection which includes a 2008 Dodge Challenger car. The beautiful a car features a handsome retro styling and offers a ripping performance. Outfitted with a 425-horsepower V8 engine, the big car comes equipped with other standard features including antilock disc brakes, sport suspension, cruise control, 13-speaker audio system and steering wheel mounted audio controls. The big five-passenger sport coupe features well-bolstered sport seats in the front and a fold-down armrest in the rear seat for optimum seating comfort. Generous cargo capacity, nostalgic exterior styling and agile handling are some other features which make the Challenger the most loved car.
Handsome retro styling steering
2008 Dodge Challenger
Snoop Dogg Holiday Destinations(Getaways) (1)
Hawaii vacations
The rapper was spotted with his wife spending vacations in Hawaii, a wonder land and playground for the affluent and renowned. The Hawaiian Islands feature marvelous sandy beaches, gorgeous waterfalls and the world's most stunning scenery to visitors.
Location: One of the most celebrated vacation hot spot, Hawaii islands is located in USA.
Accommodation: A number of luxurious accommodations for the visitors are available, which ensure a comfort stay. Its comfy suites featuring world class amenities and the perfect service and ambience, offer the best accommodation for the rich and eminent.
Main Attraction: Hawaii is the perfect holiday spot featuring literally everything from the world's most dramatic scenery, gorgeous resorts to the marvelous beaches of white sand. A nearly consistent weather and multiple diverse micro-environments make the place worth exploration anytime. Other highlights of the wonder island include - striking valleys and waterfalls, tropical rainforests, intimate sunrise, classic art galleries, soothing massages and sunset and unbelievable shopping destinations.
The rapper and his wife
Snoop Dogg Cause (4)
Save the music foundation
Philanthropic singer Snoop Dogg supports about 12 charities, including the Save the music foundation, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to improving the quality of education in America's public schools. Founded in 1997 as a public affairs initiative of VH1 network, the foundation works to restore music programs in cities across the country, and raises public awareness about the importance of music participation for nation's youth. It also ensures that every child has access to a complete education that includes the benefits of music instruction.
Shriners Hospitals for Children
Snoop Dogg supports Shriners Hospitals for Children, a network of 22 hospital facilities in North America that works to provide superior medical care at no charge to children under the age of 18. Ever since the first Shriners Hospital opened in 1922 in Shreveport, LA, the health system is fully dedicated to provide pediatric medical care for children and world-class educational opportunities for healthcare professionals. The network of Shriners Hospitals today encompasses 22 hospitals in the United States, Mexico and Canada. It stands at the forefront of medical treatment and research in orthopedic, and has so far provided medical care to 800,000 young people who are now able to lead a better and fuller lives. It also provides world class research and medical opportunities for medical professionals.
Orca Network
The Orca Network, a non-profit organization registered in Washington, is dedicated to raise awareness about the whales of the Pacific Northwest, and the importance of providing them safe and healthy habitats. So far, a community is emerging that is increasingly attuned to the Orca population, which cares about and tries to understand the needs of the resident and transient orcas that inhabit the Salish Sea. Snoop Dogg is one of the 12 celebrity supporters including 50 Cent, Harrison Ford, Johnny Depp, Janet Jackson, Billy Jane to name a few, who has extended their support to the organization.
Habitat for humanity
Habitat for Humanity believes that shelter is the most basic and primary need of all, and the simple, decent shelter is the basic human right. The organization helps break the cycle of poverty, and works to build, rehabilitates, and repairs simple, decent, affordable homes in sustainable communities with the support from home owner families, donors, volunteers and partner organization in more than 20 countries across Asia-Pacific region. Snoop Dogg is one of the 74 celebrity supporters who donates and supports Habitat for Humanity to build homes and hope around the world. Further, an hour with Snoop Dogg in a recording studio was auctioned off to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity's Operation Home Delivery Fund.
Snoop Dogg Brands (2)
Apple ipad
The gangster rap artist has been spotted numerous times carrying an Apple iPad, which reveals his like for the world renowned brand. Equipped with a marvelously engineered body design and the latest breakthrough technology, the Apple master piece features a large, gorgeous display offering greater color saturation to enhance the viewing experience. It also includes a 5 megapixel camera featuring a backside illumination sensor for stunning images and full 1080p HD video recording, and features the latest in wireless technology for connecting to fast data networks.
Barton Perreira
The gangster rap artist has been spotted sporting the Barton Perriera Vanquest sunglasses, while going for an outing or even in his rap shows. A brilliant master piece from a brand solely dedicated to pure luxury, Vanquest sunglasses define style and elegance in a modest fashion. Featuring a marvelous design and brightly engineered frames and lenses, Barton Perriera sunglasses become the next new big thing, which every celebrity would like to possess.


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H. Hawkline
Welsh singer-songwriter H.Hawkline is the catchiest thing to emerge from Lundy island since the 2007 Norovirus outbreak. Currently recording his third album, his latest release The Black Domino Box EP finds Mr Hawkline in a state of flux. Where as his previous albums A Cup Of Salt and The Strange Uses Of Ox Gall, released on Cardiff's most vital label; Shape, were exercises in Sandy Bull powered finger picking and field recordings, with only a pinch of songwriting, Hawkline has undergone a Dylanesque electrical epiphany, becoming a jangling guitar hero of 1983 to 1996 vintage in the process, simultaneously fully embracing the song. This change is as dramatic as his move to the mainland, (when the island was quarantined) where, after moving to Cardiff, Hawkline makes a living playing shows, presenting an experimental late night radio show, painting and decorating, purveying the graphic arts and providing voiceovers for dubious after hours products.
He was a member of Means Heinz, Cardiff's very own Crucial Three, who also boasted Cate Le Bon and Sweet Baboo. Disbanding after just two gigs, all the members, including drummer R. Seiliog, have all become prolific solo artists. All reunited to back up their friend on his astonishing latest EP. Lyrically, Hawkline channels his idol Richard Brautigan through a rough cement mixture of sludge rock, Felt and seaweed, listing his possessions in his rented room in what is a poignant appraisal of a dispossessed generation of multi-tasking, rarely paid young musicians. Casey Raymond's corresponding video depicts Hawkline digging his own grave; surely any songwriter would happily have this EP as their epitaph.
*H. Hawkline is an EPA/NW1 co published client


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REAL NAME: Alberto Rodriguez
6' 5", 263 pounds
BORN: May 25, 1977 in San Luis Potosi, Mexico
Born into a wrestling family, as the son of Mexican luchador Dos Caras Rodriguez graduated Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potosi earning a degree in architecture, but coming from a family of wrestlers Rodriguez got into Greco-Roman wrestling.
He made his debut appearance for AAA on May 9, 2000 saving his father from an attack. The following September he made his in-ring debut and continued to team in various six-man tag matches. He also made his debut in Japan at this time teaming with his father.
In 2005, he signed with CMLL and soon after his debut he competed in the 2005 La Copa Junior being defeated in the semi-final by Dr. Wagner Jr. In the space of three weeks, he received title matches for the CMLL World Heavyweight Championship and the CMLL World Light Heavyweight Championship but was ultimately unsuccessful.
The following year Rodriguez found himself facing Dr Wagner Jr. again in the La Copa Junior, this time defeating him on his way to the final, which he would be successful in winning by beating Ultimo Guerrero.
July 8, 2008 saw Rodriguez claim the CMLL World Heavyweight Championship defeating Universo 2000 on his third attempt at winning the gold, his run with the belt was uneventful to say the least, defending the belt only four times in a 533 day span.
He eventually lost the belt to Ultimo Guerrero and at the time Rodriguez was rumoured to have signed with WWE, however he stayed with CMLL, signing a four-year extension to his contract.
On June 17, 2009 it was confirmed that he had signed a deal with WWE, originally starting at the developmental territory Florida Championship Wrestling. It was a little over a year before he debuted on the main roster despite appearing on WWE house show events.
Rodriguez debuted on June 25, 2010 on Smackdown in a vignette which showed him being named Alberto del Rio, a rich, arrogant Mexican. On August 20th he defeated Rey Mysterio in the main event of Smackdown. The following week saw Del Rio attack Mysterio and injure him with his finisher, the rolling cross armbar.
He also attacked and injured Matt Hardy and Christian, he suffered his first defeat at the hands of Mysterio in a highly anticipated main event match on October 8th. Del Rio was apart of Team Smackdown at Bragging Rights in their victory against Team Raw.
At Survivor Series he captained his team against Team Mysterio in a losing effort.
-- bio by Darren Wood


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Hubie Brown talked about Kawhi's jump stop to get a shot off in the last minute.
That the Klaw managed to get a shot off is unremarkable in and of itself, what made it worthwhile was that it was a good shot, a fadeaway jumper that he makes with regularity. It missed — but the carom wasn't wild or unpredictable to his teammates. LMA grabbed the board, was fouled and took the lead from OKC and the Spurs stole it. That is the difference from say, Danny Green taking a shot at that moment, and Kawhi Leonard. It is also what makes a contested midrange jumper valuable.
In any comeback there are big moments that are seemingly memorable, but get lost. A hustle play, a big rebound, a turnover. This one had plenty and Manu was a part of a good chunk of them. Floating jumpers, falling down assists, huge buckets, great passes — Ginobili had a great game that I honestly will forget come late May. So it goes.
Also remarkable? The recent defensive prowess of LaMarcus Aldridge. He has quietly become a force inside against even the Warriors and Thunder. He managed to get a couple of huge blocks in this one, including the one below. He had a sequence against GSW yesterday where he challenged a shot and got a block to save a fast break situation.
Meanwhile Pau was huge offensively, which is what he was signed to do. Whereas we all were thinking the big man that would expand his range would be Aldridge, continuing the trend from last season, it has actually been Pau. It has been more than fantastic, as Pau has hit the kinds of shots and made the kinds of plays that change games. They also are a part of the comebacks that are oh so necessary to pull off. He had a stationary give-go with Manu that got himself a three and later forced a foul on Kanter that resulted in a couple of freebies. Those are winning plays that make up for his lack of footwork. Interestingly, the way that Russ Westbrook plays means that Gasol is not so vulnerable at the basket. He is good at challenging vertically and so the Thunder roster does not do much to pull him into vulnerable PNR situations where he struggles.
Watch LMA be a Classic Defensive Center
Insane sequence. Aldridge has been low key very good defensively all year. And then Kawhi with the 💪 pic.twitter.com/8UMZetsvrd
— BBALLBREAKDOWN (@bballbreakdown) April 1, 2017
Other Stuff
I bet you feel a little bit better about blowing a 20+ point lead against GSW after overcoming an even bigger 20+ (because it was later) against OKC. The Thunder are not as good a team as Golden State, but the Spurs got beat down last time they went to Oklahoma City and this served as some measure of a psychological win.
The Spurs do not need a psychological win you say? Well witness Kawhi viciously attacking the basket to seal the game. That kind of passion is at least something. Is it just straight competitiveness? Sure, and that kind of competition loving makes a player want to avenge a previous loss. I think the Spurs were a bit hungover from the loss and also were angry. It was an ugly win and these are my favorite kind because everyone has to dig deep and learn a little more about themselves.
Still, the Spurs beat a one-man team and had to scrape and scratch to do so. These last two games had about 3 periods of solid, good, Spurs basketball. That's out of eight, mind you. There is room for improvement as the team heads toward the postseason. While the Warriors all but sealed first place, there is always a sliver of hope for the top seed, if not the desire to have a good run of form going in to the next phase. These two things should hopefully give the team some incentive to pick up the pace a bit.


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We offer boarding!
Going out of town? Family emergency? We can help take care of your 4 legged family member while you're gone. Rest assured that we have highly trained veterinary staff who oversees the care and comfort of all of our boarding patients. We offer "extras" such as "love-cuddle time", extra outs, "play time" and extra soft bedding for those patients who may need help. Additional services including hair and/or teeth brushing and baths that include pedicures are provided. You're always welcome to call to check on your pet while they stay with us.
As a veterinary clinic, we specialize in the animals that require a bit more TLC, boarders who are on medications or patients who may be elderly. Diabetic pets are always welcome! Medication and therapy are administered by trained personnel. We would love to help you keep them happy and healthy while staying here at our boarding facility! You are welcome at our clinic anytime and we love to show off what we do and how we do it. Because they're our family too!
Please allow 5 to 10 minutes at the time of drop off to discuss your pets boarding needs.
Required Vaccines and tests for boarding with us are:
Dogs- Negative fecal on file within 6 months, Rabies, Bordetella vaccine, Distemper Parvo vaccine, both strains of the Influenza vaccines (H3N2, H3N8) negative Heartworm test within the last year and must be on Heartworm and Flea preventative.
Cats- Rabies, FVRCP, negative fecal on file within 6 months, triple test (FIV/FELV/HWA) within last year, and must be on Heartworm and Flea preventative.
Cat Boarding = $14.00 per day per pet
Large Dog Run = $22.00 per day
Medium Dog Kennel = $20.00 per day
Small Dog Kennel = $18.00 per day
Additional Roommate = $13.00 per day
*After hours pick-up= $25.00 additional charge (Saturday 7:30pm, Sunday 7:30am or 7:30pm only)
*We Do Not offer Drop-off after hours.
VIP (very important pet) Services (optional)
Pedicure = $16.00
Hair brushing = $5.00 (per day)
Teeth brushing = $5.00 (per day)
TLC for dogs (extra cuddles & exercise)= $10.00 (per day)
TLC for cats (extra cuddles & exercise) = $10.00 (per day)
Administer Oral meds = $4.75 (per day)
Administer Injectable meds = $7.50 (per day)
Cat bath* = $43.00
Small dog bath* (<25 lbs) = $32.25
Medium dog bath* (26-40 lbs) = $34.94
Large dog bath* (41-90 lbs) = $43.00
Giant dog bath* (>91 lbs) = $59.13
*Pedicure is included with all baths*


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The festivities are flowing and it's time to get in the mood. The New Year is beginning and the party outfits are out. Even though the clothes make the outfit the accessories matter to and never forget that. If you're stuck for outfit ideas then check out my top picks here but if you're here for those needed accessories let's get cracking then.
If a choker isn't your thing there are so many necklaces out there for you. Asos have brought out the cutest necklace two set. The dot and dash ball pendant necklace is the best way to layer with your accessories. Pair it with a flow shirt and a statement skirt and this works great. You can have these hanging low or high up towards the neck so you can have it whatever way you want.
Another layered necklace that is a little less out there is this Triple Star Chain from Monki. The star details on this work great and can we just appreciate how cute those 3 little stars are. Like come on we all secretly need those in our life. I'd be very surprised if I don't end up buying these by the end of this year.
I am not personally a bracelet fan as I always find that they move around and it always bugs me. I can't have something that moves up and down my arm and I hate the feeling of something tight on my arm. Even though I am not a fan of them I have found some great ones for that bracelet lover. Simple ones that even I may actually like.
For the simple bracelets there's this charm one from Accessorize. This bracket is paired with the cutest details. The beads and the star detail on the charm adds a bit of glitz without being too out there. I'm not afraid to be extra when it comes to accessories but sometimes you just want to go simple without being too much.
Now for those of you that do want to go all out there. Monki have this gorgeous gold sphere bracelet. The design reminds me of baubles and it's the perfect thing to have for New Years. This is definitely on my list to grab so you may see it in what I wore for Nye pretty soon.
Ring wise I have one favourite. I am a statement ring lover so I really wanted to just choose one that did it for me. As this is all about dressing up and making a statement I have kept everything relatively cheap. I would like to have more expensive and sentimental jewellery but for nights out I fear I would lose it all. For the ring of choice I spotted this one from Accessorize stood out to me. I have been dreaming about owning something like this for ages and I need to pick this up as soon as possible. I love the eye detail and the hint of green to it. Around Christmas time green is big and it's a great way to bring those festivities into your outfit it's the perfect little thing to have over this party season.
Let me know down below what accessories you've got lined up for New Years and what your plans are. I think I'm heading out for new years to kick start the new year.
Until next time, Chloe!


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Japanese car giant Toyota has posted a 7.2% jump in quarterly net profits, beating expectations and surprising analysts.
Net income came to 657.3bn yen ($5.88bn; £4.52bn), up from the 613.0bn yen recorded in the same period a year earlier. Many analysts had said they expected Toyota's earnings to be flat, reports BBC.
But strong sales in Asia and some cost reductions on the home front helped boost the firm's bottom line. The firm said it sold 2,236,131 vehicles during the period, an increase of 21,020.
"Toyota has been doing very well in parts of Asean (the Association of South East Asian Nations)," Janet Lewis, head of industrials and transportation in Asia for the Macquarie Group, told reporters.
"Particularly in Thailand, where Toyota is having a very strong year. And that has been supportive because margins in Asean tend to be very good," she said.
Toyota said its operating income increased from 574.2bn yen to 682.6bn yen – a jump of 18.87%. But the firm maintained that its full-year net profit would come in 2.12tn yen as trade war worries continue. Earlier this year Toyota said it expected to sell 8.95 million vehicles in the year to March 2019. On Friday, however, it revised this to 8.9 million "in consideration of the latest sales trends worldwide".
Analysts have warned that potential US tariffs of as much as 25% on imported cars and car parts could in future hurt Toyota in its biggest market, the US. Major carmakers, including Fiat Chrysler, have warned that changes to trade policies are hurting performance.
General Motors and Ford recently lowered their profit forecasts for 2018, citing higher steel and aluminium prices caused by existing US tariffs. But Macquarie Group's Ms Lewis said the impact of the existing tariffs had so far been minimal.
"At this moment, the only tariffs are some fairly modest tariffs on aluminium and on steel," she said.
"And that's raised some of the market prices in the US, [but] they've had a very, very modest impact.
"The bigger materials impact has just been a general materials price increase – like resins."
Ms Lewis warned, however, that any major changes to the North America Free Trade Agreement (Nafta) could have a much more damaging affect than tariffs on carmakers.
"Toyota and other car makers have a very strong presence in North America, which of course includes Canada and Mexico, and so carmakers could be devastated by substantial changes to Nafta," she said.
Toyota, more than the other automakers, would also be exposed if there were tariffs just on Japan, Ms Lewis explained, "because it does export a fair amount from Japan – but major changes to Nafta would hurt even more".
In China, where Toyota had been lagging Honda and Nissan over the last couple of years, Ms Lewis said Toyota was now doing "extremely well".
"The new Camry and the expansion of its production capacity in the China market is leading to double-digit growth this year," she said.
In May, Toyota posted a record full-year net profit of 2.5 trillion yen ($23bn) on, up 36.2% from a year earlier. Vehicle sales for the year to March 2018 came to 8,964,394 units.