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It is no secret that the entire ILLEGAL immigration operation is to make MONEY for those who hire CHEAP LABOR which then gets DONATED to the corrupt politicians who front the legislation to bring in more foreigners who will work for LESS and demand LESS than LEGAL AMERICAN workers. The unemployed LEGAL Americans are then dependent upon the corrupt politicians to provide *benefits* (welfare) which then buys VOTES from the dependents for the CORRUPT politicians. The circle is complete and the LEGAL AMERICANS LOSE OUT.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has long been hard at work to undermine the LEGAL AMERICAN businessman. The Farm Bureau is another major player in undermining the American Farmer while pretending to be on the Farmers side. The FARM BUREAU is the CORPORATE FARMERS FRIEND – not the American farm families. The large CORPORATE operations do not have the best interests of the American people even on their lists of priorities. The CORPORATE operations have their BOTTOM LINE $$ as the FIRST and only interest… what is best for America and Americans never make their lists.
The CORPORATE operators BUY the participation of the politicians to ensure that the American people LOSE in the end. These traitors are the ENEMY WITHIN – once again we the People are paying for the ROPE they are using to hang us with.
The Mark of the Beast is here among us right now…. and so few see it.
The Senate's immigration bill contains a tech industry handout for some companies like IBM and Accenture. It would virtually eliminate competitors in the market for highly-skilled immigrant labor.
Multiple sources close to the immigration debate have told Breitbart News that the provision is a key reason the corporate titans helped build support for passage of the immigration bill in the Senate. They fought hard to pass the law in the Senate and have been strategizing to get final passage in the House.
At issue is an overlooked change to the H1B visa system, used primarily by technology companies seeking foreign scientific talent. Companies like Cognizant Solutions, based in New Jersey and Tata Consultancy, based in India, bring foreign engineers into the country on H1B visas and then contract out their services to small and medium sized businesses that need help with specific projects.
Companies like these act almost like third-party human resources departments for businesses not big enough to recruit H1B talent from overseas in specific Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields. As such, these companies are big competitors to IBM and Accenture, who also provide technology services, but with a different business model. Because some of these companies operating in the US are headquartered in India, the business press refers to them as "Indian IT Industry."
The Senate passed amnesty bill, however, would change the law to prohibit an H1B visa being issued to an employee of a company that contracts out technology services to other businesses. Companies like Congnizant and Tata would have their entire business model prohibited by federal law. IBM and Accenture, who ironically do a significant amount of their services work overseas, would gain valuable business as a result.
On page 917 of the final version of the bill, a section amends current law with regard to H1B visas,
OUTPLACEMENT.Section 212(n)(1)(F) (8 U.S.C. 1182(n)(1)(F)) is amended to read as follows: ''(F)(i) An H–1B-dependent employer may not place, outsource, lease, or otherwise contract for the services or placement of an H–1B nonimmigrant employee.
''(ii) An employer that is not an H–1B-dependent employer and not described in paragraph (3)(A)(i) may not place, outsource, lease, or otherwise contract for the services or placement of an H–1B nonimmigrant employee unless the employer pays a fee of $500 per outplaced worker.
''(iii) A fee collected under clause (ii) shall be deposited in the Comprehensive Immigration Reform Trust Fund established under section 6 of the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act.
''(iv) An H–1B dependent employer shall be exempt from the prohibition on outplacement under clause (i) if the employer is a nonprofit institution of higher education, a nonprofit research organization, or primarily a health care business and is petitioning for a physician, a nurse, or a physical therapist or a substantially equivalent health care occupation. Such employer shall be subject to the fee set forth in clause (ii).''
MoneyLife reported in May that international investment bank and financial advisory firm Nomura said it would "place the Indian IT business model at competitive disadvantage compared with MNCs and depress margins irrevocably."
In the current system those foreign workers are brought to America on H1B visas and work for the "Indian IT" firm inside the United States. On a job-by-job basis, they are contracted out to separate companies, or "outsourced" or "outplaced," in the lingo of this type of immigration law, where they perform the service for that company inside the United States until their H1B visa runs out. At that point they either get a new visa or return home to India.
The Senate bill rips the current system apart to favor companies that use foreign labor to perform those same services for U.S. companies. For instance, IBM has a large workforce inside India that does most of these same services without bringing high-skilled immigrants to the United States to do those jobs here. So does Accenture, which has a headquarters in Ireland and a small U.S. presence.
Instead, this bill would just direct foreign talent on H1B visas to companies that are shipping tech jobs overseas, while effectively wiping out the "outsourcing" companies that are competition to IBM, Accenture and others. IBM, according to a 2012 ComputerWorld article, has more employees in India than it does in the United States.
That would not have much effect on many companies that are customers of that "outsourcing" service of "Indian IT" firms who would be hurt by this bill.
For instance, in that late June Wall Street Journal/LiveMint article, one anonymous executive said if the Senate bill became law he would just ship those duties out of America to somewhere in Europe.
"Unlike a few years ago, when outsourcing vendors were still learning about our business, they are now capable of delivering most of the projects from offshore," that executive said. "For a global firm like ours, there are many choices; we could make our European office lead onsite related work if the new Bill makes it difficult for us."
A July 23 study from J.P. Morgan's Asia Pacific Equity Research arm concludes the same. "The immigration bill (passed by the Senate) puts IBM & Accenture (and perhaps other US firms) at disproportionate advantage vis-à-vis the Indian IT industry," J.P. Morgan's analysts wrote. "But these firms' track-record of job creation in the US over a reasonable time-frame does not seem to square up with one of the bill's noble intents."
A tech industry lobbyist told Breitbart News that IBM's chief lobbyist Chris Padilla orchestrated this provision, and argued that the entire bill and immigration debate is built around this H1B language. Because it is such a boon for IBM, the lobbyist said, Padilla pushed the whole bill across the finish line in the Senate. The lobbyist who spoke with Breitbart News on condition of anonymity said Accenture, another tech company that would benefit from the legislation, helped IBM's Padilla.
"This is a total jobs package for IBM and Accenture," the lobbyist said in a phone interview.
"They used Compete America [a lobbying association for big business], smartly, but my hat's off," the tech lobbyist added. "It's really Chris Padilla. He's one of the best lobbyists in this town and he effectively executed this strategy."
That lobbyist said, as immigration reform became a hot topic after the last election, Senior US IBM executives reached out to Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) on the H1B language. According to Legistorm, Schumer had previously helped IBM by getting the company a $10 million earmark in 2010.
The lobbyist said that the rest of the bill was written around the H1B deal between IBM and Schema. Knowing that Schumer alone could not get legislation passed into law due to conservative and Republican resistance, the lobbyist said Padilla then used IBM's connections around the country to bring in Sens. Dick Durbin (D-IL) and John McCain (R-AZ).
"IBM, being as smart as they are, are headquartered in New York," the lobbyist said. "They have offices in Chicago. But they have a large presence in Phoenix. So they have McCain too. They [IBM and Accenture] were pushing for off-site [language in the bill] and H1B numbers. To them, it's a numbers game."
"IBM and Accenture get Schumer and Durbin to do this," the lobbyist added. "It was put in by Schumer at the behest of IBM, who met with IBM top executives."
So, with McCain on board, he could bring Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and freshman Jeff Flake (R-AZ) onto the team.
The last piece left on the GOP side was Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), and that was easy because he has higher political ambitions.
The other Democrats, Sens. Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and Michael Bennet (D-CO) were likewise easy to convince to join the team.
Menendez, a Hispanic lawmaker who supports amnesty, had been fighting off scandal after scandal–so Menendez could use political cover from the other Senate heavyweights involved in this fight. Bennet is from Colorado, and serves as the chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC)–and he sees this legislation as a way to protect the Democrats' majority in the U.S. Senate heading into a year where the electoral map gives the GOP a solid chance at winning back the majority.
After the perfect storm was created, and the Gang of Eight had formed, the lobbyist said Padilla influenced the Chamber of Commerce, US India Business Council, and Internet Technology Industry Council. IBM is one of the biggest members of each of those groups as is Compete America.
After the legislation passed the Senate Judiciary Committee, Padilla praised it on IBM's corporate public relations website.
"We are pleased with the bipartisan support for the package, and we particularly wish to thank Senators Schumer, Hatch and Durbin for defining a common-sense high-skilled framework that enabled final passage of the bill out of Committee," Padilla said in a May 22 statement. "We look forward to supporting the bill on the floor and hope for bipartisan passage of this important legislation."
As more evidence of IBM's and Accenture's critical involvement in getting the legislation passed, the lobbyist lays out those who win if the bill ever becomes law. "You got to look at the big winners of this bill," the lobbyist said. "There are four huge winners. IBM, number one. Accenture, number two. Hewlett-Packard, number three. And the AFL-CIO, number four."
"The Reason IBM, Accenture, and HP win is simple, already laid in the H1B language and offsite language," he added. "The estimates of revenue are in the billions for them which they need to help their declining earnings."
A business lobbyist told Breitbart News that the reason why the AFL-CIO is a winner with this bill is because it caps construction worker visas at 15,000. "There are 1.5 million temporary construction workers in the U.S.," the business lobbyist said. "And there are only 15,000 visas for them? How the hell are you going to build houses? It's a joke. You need 15,000 people to build houses in Phoenix alone"
Ultimately, that means, the business lobbyist said, "you can't have temporary construction workers."
Equally important in this debate, the lobbyists said, is who loses. "Here are the losers," the tech lobbyist said. "If you are a small to midcap US company on the NASDAQ, you are harmed both in stymieing innovation and expanding local growth because of the heavy fees, huge Department of Labor bureaucracy and onerous restrictions, so why expand operations in the US?"
When asked questions about this matter, IBM's Padilla refused to answer any specifics and did not challenge the assertions of the tech lobbyist who spoke with Breitbart News.
Instead, another IBM official responded on his behalf and told Breitbart News that "Mr. Padilla has no comment on your questions, and just has a general statement to share with you." That spokesman then provided the following statement, one that is almost identical to the public ones Padilla issued throughout this fight:
IBM applauds the U.S. Senate's passage of the Border Security, Economic Opportunity and Immigration Modernization Act, which further strengthens our economic competitiveness and includes significant provisions that help high-skilled workers. We believe this represents an important milestone in the process to create an immigration system for the 21st Century economy. We are grateful to all those in the Senate who supported this bi-partisan legislation and now look forward to working with the House to advance much-needed reform of the immigration system.
Accenture's senior director of corporate communications James McAvoy told Breitbart News that the company did not lobby for certain provisions because they would drive other companies out of business; rather, he said Accenture lobbied on behalf of certain provisions because they would help Accenture.Your sources' allegations are not true. Accenture has not advocated for any changes to U.S. immigration law with the intention of penalizing another company. Accenture's focus has been only on aspects of the legislation that directly impact our ability to have continued access to and use of high skilled visas."When asked in a follow-up question whether Accenture supported the specific provisions Breitbart News has laid out here, McAvoy would not answer. Instead, he replied: "We supported the Bill, but we do not discuss pending legislation, and certainly not specific provisions of pending legislation. Again, we did not advocated for any changes to Bill with the intention of penalizing another company. We will leave it at that."Offices of Sens. Schumer, McCain, and Durbin did not respond to Breitbart News' requests for comment on their involvement in this matter.


text:
Chevrolet produces about half a million small diesel engines annually, but the vast majority of these are for foreign markets, including the diesel-loving European market. The domestic diesel market is changing, though, with the announcement that the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze will be available with a 2.0L clean diesel engine.
Introducing the clean diesel to American-sold Cruze models is a logical step for Chevrolet. About 40 percent of Cruze models sold in Europe are equipped with a clean diesel engine.
"This Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel represents a new era in diesel performance for American cars," said Jens Wartha, GM chief engineer. "We've adapted a proven engine from Europe, the world's diesel capital, and married it with the emissions-reducing technology that was perfected in the United States. It's a great example of how Chevrolet's global resources work harmoniously to produce the right product at the right time and for the right market."
The new 2014 Chevrolet Cruze turbo-diesel model, which starts at $25,695, will achieve approximately 42 miles per gallon on the highway. The engine delivers 148 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with peak torque achieved at only 2,000 rpm. The low rpm peak torque setting provides drivers with more power on demand, which is ideal for entering freeways and passing other vehicles.
Other features available on the new clean diesel Cruze include:
- Additional sound-absorption materials including a new dash mat and hood blanket
- An exhaust gas recirculation control system, which improves tailpipe emissions
- B20 biodiesel compatibility

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Vast cityscape
|Native species
|Other species
- "The so-called "smuggler's moon" is best known for one thing: anything can be bought here if the price is right. Nar Shaddaa orbits Hutta, homeworld of the Hutt Cartel, but exists as a power in its own right. Criminal organizations and legitimate enterprises operate side-by-side, regulated only by the Hutts' whims. Gleaming skyscrapers house corporations, casinos, technology shops, spice houses and every other type of business imaginable. Although no other world offers Nar Shaddaa's unique services, the city has a notorious murder and disappearance rate. Gangsters, pirates, slavers and worse crowd the streets, and Republic and Imperial representatives compete for influence with the local powers. Strangers should be extremely cautious."
- ―In-game Codex (Moons)
Nar Shaddaa, also known as the Smuggler's Moon, is the largest of five moons in orbit around the planet Nal Hutta. This ecumenopolis is one of the wealthiest locations in the galaxy, yet it is home to some of the poorest people, the lights and towers of its upper levels embodying pleasure and excess. Nar Shaddaa also serves as a symbol of corruption; run by the Hutt Cartel, the Smuggler's Moon supports a robust black market and is known for secretive dealings and illegal acts. Nar Shaddaa is the first neutral planet that the player will encounter, despite the Republic and Empire sectors being separated, and it's level bracket is 20-24.
Nar Shaddaa is controlled by the Hutt Cartel, and has long been known for its lawlessness and corruption. Despite this, the moon's wealth and opulence has continued to draw individuals from across the known galaxy; those seeking the pleasures and experiences of the Smuggler's Moon willingly subject themselves to the whims and orchestrations of the various crime bosses vying for power within the moon's cityscape. Due to its large population, it has also become an excellent place for fugitives to hide.
During the Great War Nar Shaddaa remained neutral, maximizing the moon's profits by dealing with both sides of the conflict. The Galactic Republic and Sith Empire grudgingly respected the Cartel's control of the city, but also recognized the potential gains that could be made in the moon's corrupt underbelly. Those found within these polluted and neglected lower levels respect no authority other than those with power, and it is here that numerous underworld conflicts, including that between the Hutt Cartel and the Exchange crime organization, play out.
- Mezenti Spaceport
- Lower Promenade
- Industrial Sector
Codex Entries
There are a total of 23 Codex Entries that can be found on Nar Shaddaa by Empire characters.
There are 7 Locations entries that can be unlocked by Empire characters.
Achievement: Datacrons
There are 5 Datacrons entries that can be unlocked by Empire characters.
There are 2 Organizations entries that can be unlocked by Empire characters.
Persons of Note
There are 2 Persons of Note entries that can be unlocked by Empire characters.
Achievement: Titles
There are no Title entries that can be unlocked by Empire characters.
There is 1 Species entry that can be unlocked by Empire characters.
- See Species for full list of species.
There are 2 Bestiary entries that can be unlocked by Empire characters.
- See Bestiary#Nar Shaddaa for full list of creatures found on Nar Shaddaa.
There are 3 Lore entries that can be unlocked by Empire characters.
Achievement: Epic Enemies
There is 1 Epic Enemies entry that can be unlocked by Empire characters.
- [21] Terminal Injuries [Heroic 2+] from Captain Heedley
- [21] Crushing the Jedi Freedom Fighters [Heroic 4]
- [22] A Pound of Flesh [Heroic 4] from Skav Mora
- [23] Hunger of the Vrblthers [Heroic 4]
- [31] Botched Interrogation [Heroic 2+]
- [31] Glitch [Heroic 2+] from Agent Ryleah
- [31] Recruitment [Heroic 2+] from Lord Sharoleigh
- [31] Building a Better Beast [Heroic 4] from Glort
- [31] A Message for the Mercenaries from Eliss Pim
- [31] Backdoor from Kilo Detton
- [31] Breaking the Cure from Agent Kayd
- [31] Nar Shaddaa: Bonus Series from Colonel Harok
- [31] Prototype from Lieutenant DeMare
- [31] Secret Assets from Cathan Dru
- [31] Severance Pay from Chiiv
- [31] Spreading the Word from Minos Porter
- [31] Zero Protocol from Commander Stron
- [35] Priority Targets II [WEEKLY]
World boss
Useful information
If you are they type to stay buffed with food/drink for Presence and health regeneration, the Slippery Slopes Cantina can be found on the right-side of the Lower Promenade.


text:
How to combine email reports
Who is this article for?
CrashPlan for Small Business, no.
Code42 for Enterprise, yes.
Link: Product plans and features.
This article applies to app version 4.
Note: This app version is no longer supported.
Other available versions:
This article describes how to combine email reports if you have multiple devices. Follow these steps if you get multiple email alerts for your computers or if the email alert does not include all of your computers.
This article assumes that you have permission to configure your Device Backup Settings. However, your administrator may disable the ability to edit this setting.
To combine emails, make sure all of your devices are set to the same delivery time:
- Log in to the Code42 console.
- Sign in to the CrashPlan app on one of your devices.
- Choose Settings from the left-hand menu bar.
- From Settings, choose Account.
- Click Manage account.
- Sign in to the Code42 console using your CrashPlan app username and password.
- Select Devices.
- Click on a device.
Device detail appears.
- Select the action menu, and choose Edit.
The Device Backup Settings appear.
- Select Reporting.
- Next to Delivery time, either select a different time, or just note the time.
- Click Save.
- Go back to Device Overview.
- Select a different device.
- Repeat steps 4-7. Change the delivery time to match the first device if necessary.


text:
The Geneva Motor Show is always a great occasion for the car industry, and this year's will be a very special one for SEAT. Because above all, the fifth-generation of the All-New SEAT Ibiza, the Spanish brand's historic best-seller,with more than 5.4 million units sold, will be making its world debut."SEAT is in a phase of consolidation and growth and we are working to become one of the most dynamic organisations in our industry" says Luca de Meo, Chairman of the Executive Committee of SEAT S.A.,"The new SEAT Ibiza will make a great leap forward for the brand and it is set to be a turning point in the segment".
SEAT is now midway through its largest ever product offensive. At the beginning, came the launch of the brand's first SUV, Ateca, followed recently by the New Leon. Now it's the eye-catching Ibiza's turn, completing the reinforcement of the three main SEAT brand pillars. New models are still yet to come, including the compact crossover,Arona. The launch of the All-New Ibiza opens a very special year for SEAT, in commercial terms as well. The company has entered its fifth consecutive year of increased sales after posting 16.5% growth in January.
The fifth generation of the SEAT Ibiza has been developed in Barcelona and is a decisive step forward in the future of SEAT. Firstly, because it demonstrates the Volkswagen Group's latest technology, the MQB-A0 platform (Modular Quer Baukasten) which shows the importance of the SEAT brand within the Volkswagen Group, as this platform application is the first in the supermini segment. And secondly, because it benefits from the most advanced technology, a notable increase in interior space, plus, a rewarding driving experience. This has led to the creation of a completely new model while, retaining Ibiza's young spirit, dynamism, functionality and comfort. To achieve this, it gets a new, fresh, sporty and striking design, reflecting the unmistakable SEAT DNA. The surfaces have been accentuated even more in a way that gives a more sculptured, exciting and aerodynamic look.


text:
Now that I'm reading the title of this post again, it's looking a bit more cliche than I would like. I realise that I haven't written a "personal" post in quite some time. Excuses, while I do have them, aren't exactly the way I want to start out: so let me give you some background on what's been going on in my life.
Since around Thanksgiving, I've been deep into the Career-Foundry Web Development course (and by that I legitimately mean I have been spending 5-8 hours on it a day). Even though it's quite difficult, I love a challenge -and it's been fun actually having to engage different logical parts of my brain that I haven't had to in the past. Yay challenges and learning! If you're interested in the course, I can highly recommend it. I've only been active for a month and here's a portfolio I've already built.
Last week, I also taught a yoga class at a cool NGO, Kiron. They help to provide higher education for refugees, and it felt like a great opportunity to give back to a super great organisation. Even though the group was small, I had an amazing time putting together a yoga sequence and playlist. All in all, it went great and I'm so excited to start teaching on a weekly basis next year!
Beyond that, I've been hard at work writing Christmas cards and putting together gifts for those who matter to me most. It's the first year that I've written quite so many cards (I think the total number is something around 40-50), but it gives me a little warm feeling inside whenever I seal a card shut and think of the person receiving it.
But you're probably wondering where I am now, since I did write "Christmas Travels" as the title of the post… right? At this very point, I'm in Capetown (the airport to be exact), waiting for my connecting flight to Durban. For the next couple weeks, I'm doing a great detox-health retreat with my dad before meeting up with the rest of my family in Capetown for New Years. I will be attempting to post my usual three posts per week (baking, cooking and personal) – but if I miss one or two: forgive me the stress of travel. One last thing: have you listened to the latest Brunch Break episode?


text:
Welcome to the Easy Weddings directory of West Pennant Hills and West Pennant Hills's premium wedding suppliers. Please click a category below to get started. You can select from invitations, gowns, venues, cakes and everything you'll need for the big day. If you have signed in, you can also add suppliers to your very own wedding directory.
WINNER "2019, 2017, 2016 Best Live Band" LUX/ABIA Awards **Free DJ with Band **3-8 Piece Band **Deal with Band direct not a Agent
HF Wedding & Hire Cars is a family business with 44 years experience in the industry. A Luxurious experience for today's brides.
Award winning mobile hair and make up service providing soft, natural and romantic looks.
All Silver Cloud Wedding Car chauffeurs are fully uniformed and the vehicles are completely detailed for your wedding day.


text:
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yeah i am loving this phone! my partner just bought me a case for the phone and apparantly it is like a smart case and so when you close it, it locks your phone, as soon as you open it, the phone is unlocked. i am having a lot of fun using it and since i played with the audio settings, my music sounds better! although i do wish that you could customize the sound a little bit better!
i was playing with taking selfies and i have found that the phone will automatically "airbrush" your face and make you look a lot better! i swear that somehow it even made my eyelashes look better! i looked like i had make-up on my skin! i think that that feature will be appreciated!
overall, if you are willing to fork out the money, then you won't be dissappointed in the actual product that you will receive.
i hope you all had a merry christmas!
Thanks for your awesome reviews so far @aegor and @cbates !
Some final questions to round off your reviews:
- What, in your view are the best and worst things about the phone?
- If you could change one thing, what would it be?
- What type of user do you think best suits this phone?
Need help? Check out our Community Wiki or Support Portal || Looking for a new mobile? Order online today || Don't forget to tag answers as Accepted Solutions and give a Like to the member(s) who helped you out.
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Hi Kat and all,
hope you all had a great Xmas and New Year's.
I'm still going really well with the Samsung Edge. It has replaced my previous Galaxy Note 2 for good, and will remain my main phone for at least the next few months.
The best features of the phone are the amazing main screen, the camera, the speed and smoothness that it works with, and the suite of cool extra functionality it has, including the very refined and excellent S-Pen, the voice-memo ability, and of course the Edge screen. The battery life is very good, albeit not much advanced on the Note 2, which was exceptional. Keeping it the same with a QHD screen and the extra power this device has is probably an achievement. I'm hoping Android 5 will further boost the battery life.
The worst features of the phone are its size and shape - it's just a touch to wide for me to comfortably use for prolonged periods, even as a long-term phablet user, given the wedge shape the right hand side resolves into. The metal edging looks really good, but doesn't help in this regard. It is also easy to chip or scratch that metal edging. This issue of size isn't by any means a deal-breaker, but it's the one real negative to the user-experience that I've found after my time with the phone. I'm ambivalent about the leather-esque backing as well. Some might like it more than plastic - I found it didn't help with the handling issues and sometimes felt a tiny bit slippery.
Given this, the one thing I would change would be the size, specifically the width. The issue is I love the main screen and its size. I think the Edge screen is therefore the villian. The functionality it offers is certainly useful, but comes at the cost of an extra 4mm on a phone that was already as wide as was practical, and creates the 'wedge' I've mentioned a couple of times. I'd like to keep the Edge screen and make it a tiny bit narrower if possible, and maybe that's were Samsung will take the next version of this phone if they do a sequel.
This phone would best suit users who:
- want a phablet - sorry, that sounds obvious, but the size will instantly turn off some users. I'm a big guy with decent sized hands (not Michael Jordan sized, but still), and this phone is borderline too big for me. My wife can barely use it at all with one hand.
- want a lot of features. Samsung have loaded it up with a lot of features that make really good use of all that screen size. The S-Pen and S-Note software make this a viable replacement for a small notepad, the ability to split-screen multiple apps is useful in a pinch. I haven't toyed with fitness stuff that is built in, but the productivity features are pretty impressive. It won't replace a laptop or even a full blown tablet, but it is pretty damn useful option to have when you're out and about and have your mobile, but none of the bigger options. For some people the combination of this and a PC might make a tablet redundant.
It feels like Samsung have thought and developed a number of really useful things to do with a phone this big, whereas the feedback I've heard from people who have used some other phones this size or bigger (Nexus 6 or iPhone 6+) is that it feels like a normal phone made bigger without anything there to take advantage of it.
- Enjoy having something a bit different. I wasn't getting stopped on the street or on the train with people curious about the phone, but I did have a couple of people at work, and both my brothers keen to have a look at the Edge screen. It does represent a step in the evolution of handheld devices - whether its an evolution that will be successful and spawn a long term trend, or whether it will be an oddity in a few years remains to be seen. But given it's built onto an otherwise excellent phone, it will be ok.
- Want to take beautiful photos. i'm not a photographer, and haven't ever really worried about taking more than happy snaps, but this produces lovely results that I've wanted to share with people.
Thanks again to Telstra for the chance to take part in this - hope my comments have been helpful for people considering this phone. I'll keep checking this thread for a while yet, so if you have any questions, please let me know.
hi all!
-so the best things about this phone are the camera, the s-pen, the battery life and the heart rate monitor- i love how it can provide me with info and how it can be incorporated into a workout.
-the worst thing is i do need both hands to use it. not that bad of an issue but i haven't had any real problem using the phone and this was all that i could think off
so i would only change where the camera icon sits. when you are in the camera app and holding it in your right hand, there has been many an accidental photos taken and because you can take photo's really quickly, you will ended up with 10 or so unwanted shots lol
Definately go for this phone if you want something with a wow factor, love selfies, love great photos, love having options to customize the phone and don't mind having a phablet. This phone has replaced my old phone and become a companion to me.
thankyou telstra and Kat for giving me the chance to check this great phone out and be amongst the first users. I really appreciated being given the opportunity and i am really glad that telstra is interested in hearing what real people think about it, rather than just paid techies and bloggers.
oh and just a reminder that we were provided the phone for free so that we could give our honest opinions about the phone. i found this whole experience to be hassle free and fun and recommend that anyone get in and ask questions because you will get a real response from a real person.
With direct debit there's no need to give paying your bill another thought.
Avoid queuing up and never worry about late fees again.Setup direct debit


text:
Here's a unique gift for a Coast Guard Veteran or for an active duty service member. Any Coast Gurardsman or woman or Coast Guard Vet will appreciate hanging up this useful thermometer with the Coast Guard's special logo.
This "Coast Guard Thermometer" measures 5 inches by 17 inches and weighs in at 1 lb(s). This unique thermometer is hand-made in the USA using heavy gauge American steel. It's made to last and makes a great gift for any occasion.This thermometer is drilled and riveted for easy hanging.


text:
I felt in love with Laser Harps the first time I saw Jean Michel Jarre play it live in concert (Rendevous 2 song). Since technology has developed so much it is now possible to build your own homemade DIY Frameless Laser Harp.
Make a Laser Harp similar to the one Jean Michel Jarre plays live in concert (frameless).
This is an open source laser harp project. The latest version of Arduino programing code can be downloaded at my blog. Also there is a video demostration there.
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Listen: Nadine Shah announces new album 'Holiday Destination'
She's also revealed first track 'Out The Way' and announced a UK tour!
A couple of years after the release of her last album 'Fast Food,' South Shields singer-songwriter Nadine Shah has revealed her new album will be out on 25th August!
'Holiday Destination,' released on 1965 Records, will see Nadine shifting from a personal perspective and looking outwards to the wider world, putting in to perspective how the uncertainty, political upheaval and often xenophobic rhetoric of recent times has been a part of her own life for many years. See the tracklisting below.
1. Place Like This
2. Holiday Destination
3. 2016
4. Out The Way
5. Yes Men
6. Evil
7. Ordinary
8. Relief
9. Mother Fighter
10. Jolly Sailor
Nadine has also shared the lead single from the new album, 'Out The Way,' a biting commentary on her coming to grips with her identity being called into question despite being a second-generation immigrant and British national. In a statement, Nadine explained how the rise of nationalism has deeply affected her personally: "Even on Twitter I've had people telling me 'oh, go back to where you've come from' - and I'm like what? South Shields? It's a proper identity crisis for me. I'm a second-generation immigrant - I was born in England, I'm very English - proper fucking English, mate!" she jokes, before adding "but I'm also culturally Muslim."
She'll also be taking 'Holiday Destination' on tour around the UK later in the year. As well as playing at London's Citadel Festival and End of the Road, she'll hit the road in October.
Listen to 'Out The Way' and see Nadine's upcoming UK tour dates below.
20 Norwich, Norfolk & Norwich Festival
16 London, Citadel
01-03 Salisbury, End of the Road Festival
17 Birmingham, Beyond The Tracks
10 Gateshead, Sage
11 Glasgow, Oran Mor
13 Leeds, Brudenell Social Club
14 Sheffield, The Leadmill
15 Cardiff, The Globe
16 Manchester, Band on the Wall
19 London, O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire
22 Brighton, Concorde 2
Nadine Shah will play Citadel (16th July), where DIY is an official media partner. Tickets are on sale now. Visit diymag.com/presents for more information.
More like this
Nadine Shah shares new track 'Buckfast'
It's the latest track lifted from her upcoming fourth album 'Kitchen Sink'.
Tracks: The Killers, Charli XCX, Glass Animals and more
The biggest and best tracks of the past week, rounded up and reviewed.
Nadine Shah shares title track from new album 'Kitchen Sink'
Her brand new record is set to land on 5th June.
Tracks: The Vaccines, Squid, Bright Eyes and more
The biggest and best tracks of the past week, rounded up and reviewed.


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Video Games are better than Girls.....10 Reasons Why
XBox, Playstation....I could go on but I actually don't know anymore consoles. If I was a guy however I'd probably have already gone to my bedroom to play with myself at the mere thought of playing a video game.
Although I am aware that there are girl gamers out there, lets be honest, the majority of gamers are men and often I think they'd rather play with them than us (unless 'us' happened to be 2 women at the same time)....
Here are 10 Reasons Why:


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Bishkek offers a wide range of entertainment. From museums showcasing traditional cultures and theatres performing local and world famous plays and shows to modern nightlife, concerts, and events: there is always something to do! Listed below are the museums and theatres that our city offers.
The Historical Museum is situated in the very center of Bishkek on the Ala-Too square. The museum has rich ethnographic collections of objects from the late 19th and early 20th centuries which include articles made of felt, wool, leather, and wood made by Kyrgyz artisans; and collections of traditional Kyrgyz embroidery, fleece and national dress, original women's adornments, and highly artistic horse harnesses.
(complete information here: http://www.kyrgyzstan.orexca.com/bishkek_museums.shtml)
The Museum of Fine Arts - 196, Sovietskaya - Tue-Sun 09:00-17:00
Dedicated to Kyrgyz folk and applied arts; Russian and Soviet Art - the museum began as the State Picture Gallery and was located in St. Nicholas Church in Oak Park. The Church now houses the Gallery of the Soviet Artists' Union.
Frunze Museum - 346, Frunze - Tue-Fri 09:00-17:00; Sat-Sun 09:00-16:00
The museum traces the life and career of Mikhail Frunze - and what is supposed to be the house in which he was born and brought up is preserved on the ground floor (although there is some doubt whether this is the right house - it is typical of the period) - and there is an exhibition of the achievements of the city and Kyrgyz Republic during the Soviet period.
The Tinibek Sadykov Museum - Togolok Moldo - Mon-Fri 09:00-12:00 + 13:00-16:00
This museum contains some of the smaller works of the Kyrgyz monumental sculptor Tinibek Saykov, some of whose larger works can be found in the Philharmonic, The Matyrs to the Revolution at the corner of Prospect Chui and Sovietskaya and in Victory Square.
The Aaly Tokombaev Museum - 109, Chuikova - Mon-Fri 09:00-17:00
Tokombaev was a famous Kyrgyz akin (bard), poet and composer, and his house has been turned into a museum dedicated to his life and work. He helped to standardize written Kyrgyz using a modified Cyrillic alphabet. There is an exhibition dedicated to the exodus of many Kyrgyz to China in 1916 following the Urkun uprising against the Russians. (There is a statue of Tokombaev to the South of the Fine Arts Museum).
The Gaspar Aitiev Studio - on the corner of Tynystanova and Chokmorova.
Aitiev was a painter and sculptor and the museum is housed in what was his studio and houses some of his work including landscapes, sketches in charcoal, and pastels and sculptures from driftwood.
The Semeni Chuykov Museum - 87, Chuykova
The Open Air Sculpture Museum - in Oak Park
Inaugurated in 1984 to mark the 60th Anniversary of the Kyrgyz Republic, sculptors from all over the Soviet Union were invited to submit pieces under the title "Peace and Labor" and their work was exhibited in the park. Many of the metal pieces, including a bronze bust of Yuri Gargarin, have since disappeared - plundered, stolen for their scrap value.
The Toktugulok Literary Museum - 109, Toktogula - Mon-Fri 08:00-12:30 + 13:30-17:30. Dedicated to Kyrgyz literature - this museum has many papers, photos, and memorabilia.
Mineralogical Museum - 164, Propect Chui - Mon-Fri 09:00-15:30
Contains examples of minerals found throughout the country.
The Zoological Museum - 78, Pushkin Street - Mon-Fri 10:00-17:00
Contains displays of taxidermy (reptiles, birds, mammals, invertebrates), native to Kyrgyzstan - and some more exotic. There are also some live reptiles. The building, (Friendship House - Dom Druzhby), was the first seat of the Republican government built by the Interhelp volunteers in 1927, (there is a time capsule in the cornerstone), but when the Supreme Soviet building in the old square was completed, this became a Historical Museum.
The National Bank Museum - Contains examples of money - coins, banknotes, treasury documents - both real and counterfeit.
The Ala Archa National Park Museum - a few kilometers inside the park - The two story building houses the administration offices of the park and has a room dedicated examples of the wildlife found here and around Issyk Kul.
The National Library - although not strictly a Museum, the library has over the years since it was founded in 1934 become one of the major repositories of culture in the country. It moved into its present home on Sovietskaya in 1984 - to mark its 50th anniversary. The library collects copies of all literature published in the country, as well as a variety of publications from other CIS countries and further afield.
(information was taken from Oriental Express Central Asia Website)
Kyrgyz State Philarmonic is situated on Chui Avenue. There are two concert halls featuring classical, traditional Kyrgyz, and pop concerts and a variety of shows.The Philharmonic was built in 1980 and is the setting for classical, modern simphony and Kyrgyz orchestral and traditional musical performances. The gigantic statue in front depicts the 1000-year-old hero Manas astride his magic steed Ak-Kula, slaying a dragon.
(complete information here http://www.kyrgyzstan.orexca.com/bishkek_theatres.shtml)
Kyrgyz Drama Theatre
273, Panfilov St., behind the Government House;
Tel.: 665802, 216958;
hours: 8:00-20:00 in summer;
Tickets 20-200 soms
The resident company performs a range of local and international plays - performances are in Kyrgyz or Russian.
Russian Drama Theatre
122, Tynystanova St Oak Park;
Tel.: 662032, 621571;
hours- Mon-Sun 10:00-18:00; Tickets 30-100
A range of local and international plays in Russian.
Bishkek City Drama Theatre
Chernyshevsky Library between Theatre of Opera and Ballet and Russian Drama Theatre
A small, intimate theatre with a company performing a range of local and international plays - performances are in Kyrgyz or Russian and often international.
Puppet Theatre
Sovietskaya-Michurina St.
Performances on Sundays at 11:00am.
The Conservatory
115, Jantosheva St.; Tel.: 479542
Concerts by students and professors.
(information was taken from Oriental Express Central Asia Website)


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|Jake getting mummified
|Donut eating contest
|Being silly
|Homemade root beer!! Yummy!
|A little snacking!
|Jake and Millie
|Family photo opp!
|A hearse is a hearse of course of course!
|We were a little scared to stand near this:)
We thought someone might jump out!
|My little Kitty and Luigi!
|What a great party:)


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As I work to perfect my "Work-Life" Balance, I have found that I haven't been utilizing my time and resources as effectively as I could and this blog entry details some of the ways in which I have developed to address this imbalance. In 2015, I wrote a lot, but did not maximize the submissions part of my writing. In 2016, I wrote a little, but I really focused on the submissions aspect, and did not really focus as much on my writing. This year, I've tried to focus on both, but the amount of schoolwork has limited my ability to really write creatively, as you can see through the lack of blog entries that I have posted this year. So, I had fallen back to prioritizing submissions as a way to still feel connected with the creative writing part of my life.
However, after recently dusting off an older story that was already published and sending it to a market that accepts reprints, I realized that I already have a cache of material, that with a little reworking, that I can use as "stepping stones" to create longer, and more lucrative works. Ship of Shadows (SoS) is a story that I created, submitted and was published in Visions IV: Space Between Stars. I have detailed its genesis in this blog entry. I am really proud of this story, but rather than try to reprint it in other anthologies/markets (although I totally could as the rights have reverted back to me), I wondered if there was a way to "expand" upon it in some way, and to make it longer and more in-depth. In other words, was there a way that I could revise ("re-vision") the story and take the same "kernel" of the story, but "re-see" it in a new, longer form work? I then began to brainstorm what that would look like. First, I would need to know what longer form work is it that I'm envisioning. The options that I would be interested in working on at the moment are graphic novels, screenplays, and novels. In my mind, the next logical stepping stone up from a short story is the graphic novel–it is short enough to be read in one sitting (in many cases), but tells a more elaborate story. I already know that the characters, setting, and plot are strong because it was published (& something an editor paid to publish), so why not work smarter and try to "build" upon a structure that I already know has the potential for success? So I am currently working on outlining the graphic novel version of SoS. I am hopeful that I will be able to write a strong rough draft from my outline during my Summer Break. I will, of course, be detailing its construction in this blog.
Okay, look, I'm a PhD student. My days are jam-packed with reading, teaching, reading, working, reading, writing (academic), reading, grading, reading, reading, reading . . . you get the picture. Heck, even as I type these very words, I have a 5-7 page paper to complete and an annotated bibliography to start, so my time is precious to me. This, unfortunately, means that creative writing has gotten the short shrift during the past two semesters. I realize, however, that I have a lot of time (free) built into my days that I'm not utilizing in a very productive way. On those days where I'm "free" (i.e., no classes, I should take an hour as I'm eating to simply write on the current draft that I'm working on). On the days I have to "work" (i.e., days where I have classes or academic commitments, I should simply outline/rough draft future works). That way, I'm always working on something current and will be ready for those extended "Breaks" (Summer & Winter) when I can devote my full time and resources to the things that I've outlined or rough drafted. On weekends, my time should be used for preparing submissions. If I can somehow achieve and maintain this balance, I think my writing production and my satisfaction with the writing process will improve immensely.
Well, that's all I have time for this week. I've got assignments to write, papers to grade, and books to read, so I'll sign off. Here's hoping you have a successful week, and with luck, hopefully I'll have a successful writing week as well.


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The Golden Eagle Diner and Restaurant located in Bristol Borough, PA in Bucks County looking for
- Hosts
- Servers (Waiters and Waitresses)
- Cooks and
- Busser/Dishwasher.
The Golden Eagle Diner is a family run business with an excellent reputation serving families and business people in Lower Bucks County for over 30 years. Voted Best of Bucks 2018 and year after year.
- Full-time and Part-time Available (Flexible Schedules)
- Good Pay!
- A Strong Team Player
- Good Communicator - A People Person
- Organized with a great attention to detail
- At least 18 years old
High school or equivalent (Required)
Please contact Huseyin Gunaydin at (215) 870-7704


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Whispering Jack [Import]
- Artist: John Farnham
- Format: CD
- Release Date: 10/12/2007
|your cart is empty
1986 album by the veteran Australian vocalist. Whispering Jack was the twelfth studio album by John Farnham. It was produced by Ross Fraser and peaked at #1 on the Australian Kent Music Report Album Charts. Whispering Jack has become the highest selling album in Australia; as of 2006, it was 24x platinum indicating sales of over 1.68 million copies sold. It spent 25 weeks at the No. 1 spot on the Album Charts during 1986-1987. Prior to this album, Farnham's career had stalled after being recruited and then leaving as lead singer of Australia's Little River Band. Farnham's manager, Glenn Wheatley, mortgaged his home to raise funds for the recording of this album. After initial reluctance by major Australian radio stations to play the lead single, "You're the Voice", public demand became overwhelming and they relented. The song became one of the standout #1 songs on the Australian Charts of the 1980s and still remains a staple of Australian Radio. Whispering Jack restarted Farnham's career and kept it rolling across two more decades.


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I love me some animal print, I have quite a vast collection in the leopard print variety from tops to dresses and fur coats. I'm currently eyeing up a little green leopard print number that I really want to make mine. The one kind of animal print I really wanted to branch out to was zebra. I'd seen it pop up here and there and basically fell completely in love with it and made it my mission to own me some.
My first zebra start off piece I decided to go for was this Motel badboy I manage to find on love the sales site. Bonus as Motel Rocks has been one of my absolute faves for the longest time, I have heaps of thier dresses from past seasons that are well too short but I just don't have the heart to throw them away! Perhaps when I move to my new flat I may have to be a little ruthless but for now, I can open my wardrobe and admire my little pattern beauties. Lucky for me, this time around, this dress was actually long enough to cover my butt unlike most of my aforementioned collection.
I did have plans to wear this to the blogger's blog awards but you see, the dress may well be longer to cover my butt which is great and all that, it is however slightly too big on the top. You see, I have like 0 boobs and as this dress has the cup detailing it exaggerates how without boob I am and kinda gapes. I also can't really wear a bra with it as I'd be all free the nip. Instead, I got up to my old layer tricks and found a navy long sleeve to wear underneath and boo[b]m problem solved. Well kinda cos I still didn't wear it to the event but I've been wearing it in more casual settings instead.
Dress* Motel | Top New Look | Shoes Vans
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Chevron Explores Open Source Using Hadoop
Chevron hopes to reduce the cost of sending deepwater drillships out into the ocean by doing a better job of processing the vast amounts of data that can help identify reservoirs of oil, using open source software called Hadoop.
"Within three years, I think the energy industry is going to embrace open source," Steve Walker, who works in data research, analytics and data warehousing at Chevron, said Tuesday at a conference. Walker says that up until this point, the energy industry hasn't really embraced open source software beyond using Linux application servers. The industry as a whole has used more proprietary software, he says.
To find oil in places like the Gulf of Mexico, Chevron sends out ships that survey areas suspected to contain oil or gas deposits.
The ships generate waves creating seismic data that is then converted into a picture that Chevron engineers can use to determine where oil is located. It's important that this picture is as clear as possible because drilling in deepwater is expensive. Drillships cost roughly $1 million per day to operate, according to a September 2011 presentation by Peter Breunig, general manager of IT technology and architecture at Chevron.
The process of collecting seismic data works by sending seismic waves into the ocean floor, which are then reflected back to the surface. An array of receivers records the amplitude and arrival times of the reflected waves as a time series that can later be reconstructed to get a picture of what the terrain looks like under the ocean floor, Josh Wills, director of data science at Cloudera, wrote in a January paper.
"The ship collects ridiculous amounts of data," said Walker. Chevron gathers information that includes five dimensions – the x and y coordinates of both the wave's source and target – along with the time it was collected. The company uses Hadoop software to sort that data. It's one step in more than 25 steps Chevron takes with the data to create a picture for engineers to use to locate oil reservoirs. Chevron uses a supercomputer to create models and simulations of the underground environment.
"With oil companies, the more seismic data they have, the better they can find pockets of oil and natural gas underground," said Doug Cutting, chief architect of Cloudera and co-creator of Hadoop, who also spoke at a Cloudera-sponsored lunch at The Economist's Ideas Economy: Information conference in San Francisco. One benefit of using Hadoop is that it can do some of the seismic data processing in a less expensive way, according to the Cloudera paper. By some estimates it reduces the cost by a factor of 10.
Cutting co-created Hadoop when he was still working for Yahoo. He set out to make software that could handle large quantities of information that would not fit into a conventional database. He wanted to be able to use inexpensive commodity hardware. For inspiration, he read papers that engineers at Google had written about its MapReduce software that it used to sift through large quantities of information for search. He built software that could store different types of data across many different servers and that could be queried by data scientists. Cutting then named the software Hadoop after his son's yellow stuffed elephant.
"Now it's spreading to lots of different industries. I never imagined that it would go this far," said Cutting. "The degree to which it's being used today is a surprise to me and it's incredible."
Cutting joined three others to form Cloudera, which distributes Hadoop software for free. The Apache Hadoop software is complex and comprises about 14 related projects of software code that handle different tasks. Cloudera stitches them together into software that companies can easily use. Cloudera sells management tools, support and training services as well. Today, about half of the Fortune 50 uses Cloudera software.
"Roughly, 80% of all online travel booked is powered by Cloudera," said Kirk Dunn, the company's chief operating officer. Cloudera's customers include Groupon, Samsung, and Nokia.
Chevron's Walker said that the company is investigating other uses for Hadoop and he predicts that within a few years, the energy industry as a whole will embrace data science.
Cloudera's Cutting adds, "there are predictions that in a few years, the majority of the world's data will be processed by a Hadoop system."
CORRECTION: Chevron gathers seismic data that includes five dimensions, not three as previously stated.
UPDATE: A sentence was adjusted to clarify that ships sent by Chevron to survey areas suspected to contain oil or gas deposits generate waves creating seismic data. An earlier version of this sentence omitted how seismic waves were generated.
Write to firstname.lastname@example.com


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If Kyle Shanahan's hiring of Jon Embree is an indication, the 49ers 37-year-old head coach is off to a solid start. Even though Shanahan is behind on recruiting a staff because he was the last NFL head coach hired, Shanahan was nevertheless able to snare Embree, tight ends coach from the Buccaneers, as his tight ends coach.
Embree, 51, will also carry the title of assistant head coach. A former head coach at the University of Colorado, Embree will provide counsel to Shanahan as he navigates being a first time head coach at any level.
With his Colorado experience and sterling character, Embree appears to be an excellent choice to assist Shanahan with the roster, play-calling, quarterback development, and mostly, relating to players.
Embree started the Buffs 4 Life foundation to assist a former University of Colorado teammate, Anthony Weatherspoon, after Weatherspoon contracted leukemia and was struggling to meet his medical bills. Embree funneled donations from former
Buffalo players to help Weatherspoon.
Embree was also an assistant at Colorado when he mentored future NFL wide receiver Rae Carruth. Carruth was later convicted of murdering his pregnant girlfriend, Cherica Adams, but miraculously, the eighth-month-old baby survived. Now that baby is 17.
Partially because he was born prematurely, Chancellor Lee Adams has severe cerebral palsy and, for the last four years, in addition to his responsibilities as a tight ends, Embree has been a part of Adams' life as a father figure. HBO's Real Sports did a segment on it.
With people like Embree in the building, the 49ers can't help but put together a decent coaching staff.


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Browsing Venues
You are searching for Venues
If you love to put on your glad rags and catch a show, you're in for a real treat. The legendary Spa has been done up to the nines, bringing it right back to its glory days.
South Marine Drive, Bridlington, YO15 3JH


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Define it
April 24, 2008
How many of you looked at this picture and thought get a job, get rid of the dog or go home to your folks? How many of you looked at it and thought these two need help, who can help them? If you are in the second group Cooperative Feeding can help and so can you by volunteering, doing food drives (which can include pet food) or just by spreading the word. If you are in the first group, maybe you need to come spend a little time with us in the food pantry or community kitchen and look at how you define home, need, unconditional.
Looking at this picture we can't really know anything about this person or his furry companion, but I'm sure we all look at it, make assumptions, and react. None of us know what has brought them here, what other options they might have, or where "here" even is and that's rather the point. You don't know.
What I find most intriguing about this picture is that it raises the idea of defining homelessness and what homeless persons (the furry sort too) need or want. I think most Americans think of the homeless rather like this picture. The truth might surprise you.
Many of our homeless clients you would walk by on the street and never know they were living in their car, sleeping on friends' couches, staying in one of the county's shelters or living on the streets. Then there are those that have shelter, but worry each month if they will lose it, or perhaps they live with family or in a motel. Not technically homeless, but definitely not housing secure and they too often find themselves not paying utilities or buying food so that they can pay the rent.
They often have jobs, education, families. A health emergency, an accident, a bad decision, an addiction… things that could happen to any of us move them from living pay check to pay check to needing public assistance or being out on the streets. Sometimes what they need isn't what you think. It could be that getting food stamps would have been enough to put food on the table and pay the rent. Maybe mental health counseling would help them move forward and maybe a beloved dog is what is giving them the stability and love they need to make it through one more day.
Maybe just a bag of dog food a month and a hot meal a day would help these two make it through life a little easier. Maybe just a kind word directing them to a place like Cooperative Feeding is all they need to help re-define home. They seem to have the unconditional part down pretty well.
Tagged: community, Homelessness, Poverty


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Western blot analysis of extracts from HeLa cells, untreated (-) or treated with hydroxyurea (1.5 mm, 16 hr; +), using Phospho-ATR (Thr1989) (D5K8W) Rabbit mAb (upper) or ATR (E1S3S) Rabbit mAb #13934 (lower).
|Product #
|100 µl
|MW (kDa)
|Rabbit IgG
Product Information
|Western Blotting
Supplied in 10 mM sodium HEPES (pH 7.5), 150 mM NaCl, 100 µg/ml BSA, 50% glycerol and less than 0.02% sodium azide. Store at –20°C. Do not aliquot the antibody.
For western blots, incubate membrane with diluted primary antibody in 5% w/v nonfat dry milk, 1X TBS, 0.1% Tween® 20 at 4°C with gentle shaking, overnight.
NOTE: Please refer to primary antibody datasheet or product webpage for recommended antibody dilution.
NOTE: Prepare solutions with reverse osmosis deionized (RODI) or equivalent grade water.
Load 20 µl onto SDS-PAGE gel (10 cm x 10 cm).
NOTE: Loading of prestained molecular weight markers (#13953, 10 µl/lane) to verify electrotransfer and biotinylated protein ladder (#7727, 10 µl/lane) to determine molecular weights are recommended.
NOTE: Volumes are for 10 cm x 10 cm (100 cm2) of membrane; for different sized membranes, adjust volumes accordingly.
* Avoid repeated exposure to skin.
posted June 2005
revised November 2013
Reprobing of an existing membrane is a convenient means to immunoblot for multiple proteins independently when only a limited amount of sample is available. It should be noted that for the best possible results a fresh blot is always recommended. Reprobing can be a valuable method but with each reprobing of a blot there is potential for increased background signal. Additionally, it is recommended that you verify the removal of the first antibody complex prior to reprobing so that signal attributed to binding of the new antibody is not leftover signal from the first immunoblotting experiment. This can be done by re-exposing the blot to ECL reagents and making sure there is no signal prior to adding the next primary antibody.
NOTE: Prepare solutions with reverse osmosis deionized (RODI) or equivalently purified water.
posted June 2005
revised June 2016
Protocol Id: 263
Phospho-ATR (Thr1989) (D5K8W) Rabbit mAb recognizes endogenous levels of ATR protein only when phosphorylated at Thr1989.Species Reactivity:
Monoclonal antibody is produced by immunizing animals with a synthetic peptide corresponding to residues surrounding Thr1989 of human ATR protein.
Ataxia telangiectasia mutated kinase (ATM) and ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related kinase (ATR) are PI3 kinase-related kinase (PIKK) family members that phosphorylate multiple substrates on serine or threonine residues that are followed by a glutamine in response to DNA damage or replication blocks (1-3). Despite the essential role of ATR in cell cycle signaling and DNA repair processes, little is known about its activation. ATR was long thought to exist in a constitutively active state in cells, with DNA damage-induced signaling occurring via recruitment of ATR to single stranded DNA and sites of replication stress. Phosphorylation of ATR at serine 428 in response to UV-induced DNA damage has been suggested as a means of activating ATR (4,5). Recent work has shown autophosphorylation of ATR at threonine 1989. Like ATM Ser1981, phosphorylation of ATR Thr1989 occurs in response to DNA damage, indicating that phosphorylation at this site is important in ATR-mediated signaling (6,7).
Explore pathways + proteins related to this product.
UniProt ID: Q13535
Entrez-Gene Id: 545
Cell Signaling Technology is a trademark of Cell Signaling Technology, Inc.
Tween is a registered trademark of ICI Americas, Inc.


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Consistency is key, and the Clearwater Holiday Inn would know a thing or two about that. This May, the Ulmerton Road hotel was notified by Tripadvisor of earning its latest award from the travel website, the 2015 Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence. This award is earned by continually receiving great reviews from guests.
With an outstanding amount of "excellent" rated reviews, it comes as no surprise that the Holiday Inn St. Petersburg North-Clearwater has gained this title yet again. The hotel won the same award in 2012, with a 4 (out of 5) star rating, ranking #32 out of 97 hotels in the Clearwater area. However, in 2015, the hotel continues to hold a consistent 4 (out of 5) star rating, but now ranks even higher, at #28 out of 98 hotels in the area.
Travelers rated the hotel's Location, Service, Cleanliness, Sleep Quality, Rooms, and Value no less than 4 stars (out of 5), with Service and Cleanliness totaling even higher, at 4.5 (out of 5) stars. The hotel's dedication to exceptional customer service, attention to detail and personable experiences that travelers have so graciously lauded through their reviews on Tripadvisor allow us to look forward to many more remarkable achievements from the extraordinary staff at the Holiday Inn.


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Tributes have been paid today to the late TD for Mayo East and former Minister, Ballina based, Sean Calleary who died at the weekend.
He was a member of Dáil Éireann from 1973 to 1992 and was a native of Killala and was a civil engineer by profession.
The leader of Fianna Fail Micheal Martin has today described Sean as a colossus in politics and a huge loss to Mayo and nationally.
While Ballina councillor Annie Mae Reape said Sean was a gentleman.
Sean Calleary served as Minister of State at the Department of Public Service, at the Department of Trade, Commerce and Tourism and at the Department of Foreign Affairs .
He was also a former councillor on both Mayo county council and Ballina Urban council.
Mr. Calleary was also well known in sporting circles as a prolific athlete and sports enthusiast.
Hi father Phelim was a TD for Mayo North from 1952 to 1969, while his son Dara is the current Deputy Leader of Fianna Fáil and a TD for Mayo since 2007.
He is survived by his wife Doris, daughter Siofra, son's John, Conall and Dara, grandchildren, and wider family.
The leader of Fianna Fail Micheal Martin says Sean was a colossus in Irish politics but particularly in Mayo politics and many in the party are greatly saddened by his passing.
Ballina based Fianna Fail councillor Annie Mae Reape was a former secretary to the late Minister. She described Sean as a gentleman.
Former Taoiseach Enda Kenny served in the Dail and on Mayo county council with Sean Calleary
He has described Sean as a fearless defender of Ballina and Mayo. He says as an engineer, Sean brought the quality of strategic thinking to his politics, particularly in respect of the development of the West.
As a young deputy, Seán Calleary often gave him advice on particular political difficulties that arose.
He says "as a rugby player, Seán understood what team effort was like and brought that to fruition with his native Ballina. He was also an avid supporter of Mayo senior footballers over the years. Ballina has lost one of its finest sons", Enda Kenny concluded.
Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring, has expressed his condolences to the family of the late Sean Calleary.
He says he was very sorry to learn of his passing saying he served the people of Mayo and Ireland very well as a TD and Minister.


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How to: Write the perfect press release to boost your media relations
Press releases are a public relations staple, but would you know how to write one well? Our media relations experts have created this handy step-by-step guide to help you share your news with journalists.
Every organisation needs to know how to get their news heard – and press releases are still one of the most important ways of doing that.
According to the dictionary, a press release is an official statement issued to newspapers giving information on a particular matter.
Writing and issuing a press release can help your business gain valuable PR. But there are some essential points to bear in mind when getting your news down on paper.
As an integrated marketing and communications agency staffed by PR professionals and former journalists, we've put together our top tips to writing the perfect press release…
1. So what? – The first thing every writer should ask themselves. Do you have something interesting to say? If not, why are you writing this? If it's not something people want to read then go back and find the 'story'.
2. The five Ws – It's one of the basics of storytelling: who, what, where, when, why (and how)! Try and get this information in your introduction. Journalists are busy people and will often have to scan read the information they receive. So get the most important information at the top of your press release. Keep your sentences and paragraphs short and snappy. The inverted pyramid is a simple way to help you structure your work.
3. Plain English please – avoid jargon at all costs. Write simply and concisely – why use 10 words when you can use three? If you're are conveying complex information, put it into layman's terms wherever possible.
4. Say what? – A selection of quotes are an essential element of any news article. Ensure you quote the correct person (check spellings!) and include their job title. Often the quote can become the story – so make sure what they are saying is interesting and adds value to the press release. Just like we want to avoid jargon in the body of the press release, we also want to avoid it in quotes too. Make sure the spokesperson sounds like a human being – not a corporate robot.
5. Word count – Journalists write to strict word counts. And so should you. You should be able to say everything you need to in around 350 words or on one sheet of paper. If the journalist needs more information they will request it.
6. For more information – And on that note, ensure you include your contact details at the foot of the press release. A contact name, telephone number and email address are all essential in ensuring journalists can get hold of you quickly and easily.
7. Pictures – Make sure you have some high resolution images available to accompany your press release. Journalists will always be looking for quality photography to accompany articles – it could be the difference between a full page lead or no coverage at all. The image should be representative of the news in your press release. And if you have quoted someone, you should also try to include a head and shoulders image (readers like to be able to see who is speaking to them).
8. Interviews and photocalls – If your press release relates to an event or you believe it would make a good photo or interview opportunity, why not invite the press? Ensure you provide all the information a photographer or journalist would need to get there including date, time (be flexible if possible), address (including postcode), a contact name and mobile number. Ideally the interview will be with the person quoted in the press release – so choose your spokesperson carefully.
9. Format it right – Sending your press release in a simple format will always be appreciated by journalists and newsdesks. Make sure it includes:
• Date: Ensure your press release has the date of issue at the top and whether it is for immediate use or embargoed until a specified date.
• Headline: Include a succinct title which summarises the press release.
• Notes to editors: At the end of your press release you can include any additional information for the journalist if necessary. Information such as company background, for example. Again, keep these notes straight to the point (a couple of paragraphs is plenty). If the journalist has any questions they will ask.
• Attachments – send your press release in the body of the email and attach an easy to read format (such as a word document version as well). Images can also be attached but if they are large or there are several, then send them via a file share platform (such as a Dropbox or We Transfer) – because nobody appreciates their inbox being crashed!
10. Know your audience – journalists are busy people. Target your communications to the right reporters. For example, a food journalist will not want to receive news about cars. Spend ample time researching and compiling your media list. Sending relevant information to relevant people will be appreciated.
You would be surprised how fast a journalist's inbox gets filled up so don't pester (especially on deadline – take a note of this at research stage).
But don't be afraid to pick up the phone to follow up your email. Conversations lead to contacts! And as the old saying goes, you are only as good as your contacts book. Ask if the press release is of interest, if it's not, try to find out why. Don't be disappointed, this information will help you tailor your communications in the future.
To help you even more, here's one we made earlier…
9 November 2016
For immediate use
Pelican Communications has unveiled the secrets of the perfect press release
Marketing and public relations agency Pelican Communications has launched a top tips guide to crafting the perfect press release.
The integrated agency released the information on its latest blog 'How to: Write the perfect press release for journalists.'
Jessica Beckett, senior communications consultant at Pelican, said: "As a former journalist I was delighted to put together this top tips guide.
"Having seen the industry from both sides I know how valuable a well written press release can be. I hope it will be a useful tool for anyone who would like to share news and information to the media."
The step-by-step guide aims to help businesses and organisations understand how to write a press release. It includes information about writing style and formatting to understanding audiences.
Pelican Communications, based in Manchester, delivers a wide range of services including media relations, content creation and design. It specialises in four markets: food, packaging and food production, environment and outdoor and leisure.
The perfect press release top tips is the latest post on the company's website www.pelicancommunications.co.uk where a wide range of expert knowledge blogs are also available.
Notes to editors:
Pelican Communications is an award-winning marketing communications and PR agency dedicated to "Driving Brilliant Results" time after time.
Voted Best Small Marketing Agency in the Prolific North Awards, we are experienced and passionate about our work and our clients.
The idea of a specialist consultancy dedicated to specific markets was conceived by managing director and former newspaper editor Michael Bennett, after a decade of experience with major consultancies.
For more information contact:
Jessica Beckett
Pelican Communications
Tel: 01457 820807
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Pelican Communications are specialists in the environment, food and drink, outdoor and leisure and packaging sectors and offer a range of services such as media relations, brand management, event management and people development. Contact us for marketing and communications expertise.


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Hi All,
I picked up the awesome PiTFT Touch Screen and got it working by following the tutorial here. I set it up to display the console on the touch screen and I can launch the desktop by logging in and executing startx. It even works if I execute startx from a remote SSH session. However, if I use raspi-config to configure it to boot to desktop automatically and reboot I just end up with a blank screen with an underscore in the top left corner.
I tried one other thing... I put startx in rc.local and it appears to execute but it just shows the output on the console and never actually displays the desktop.
In either case, if I log in using SSH and execute startx the desktop will display and everything works as expected.
I'm a linux novice so I'm out of ideas and I haven't found many other discussions about this device. Any thoughts on a possible solution?
Luke M


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Political Correctness and Talking about Race1
September 2, 2008 by Korshi
I was reading a friend's blog today when I came to the end of a sentence that bothered me. It ended like this "African-American (or is it black? Or negro?)".
It was just a throwaway comment, but it bothered me for some reason. Which was, I realised, the subtext. He probably wasn't even aware of it- that kind of comment is a stock phrase implanted by culture and hovering somewhere in most of our brains, waiting to be put into writing- but the subtext is that political correctness has gone mad, and it's impossible to say anything without offending someone. African-American?! Black?! Negro?! Who know what to call them these days!!!
I'm going to come out here and try to defend political correctness, discuss some different words for race (mainly here in Australia) and generally hold forth on an area I have no qualifications for except existing in a racial grey area (somewhere between white and black).
On Political Correctness
First of all, I'd like to clear up what I mean by "political correctness". The concept, I believe, has been put together by an illuminati-style cabal of right-wing commentators, wrongly conflating several different practices, in order to ridicule identity politics, and suggest that the Left is engaging in an Orwellian process of thought policing. There's nothing wrong with vilifying your political opponents with hyperbole and false association (I've enjoyed calling George Bush a fascist along with my pinko friends), but the surprising thing is that many on the left are jumping on the band wagon of decrying political correctness too. Everyone wants in on the fun.
What I would like to reclaim as acceptable political correctness is using words correctly, and thinking about what you say. Politically correct words, "Black" instead of "negro" or "Indigenous" instead of "abo" set a basic level of politeness in dealing with people on an everyday basis, and in some cases that I will look at later are more semantically accurate. There's nothing new about the concept of politeness, and we all know you don't have to be polite around close friends, but it means it's harder to be inadvertently offensive. As Peter O'Toole says in the Last Emperor "You need to be able to say what you mean because if you can't say what you mean, you can't mean what you say… and a gentleman always means what he says."
What the right wing has tacked on to this reasonable idea are a number of practices that have more to do with overregulation, fear of litigation and (occasionally) publicity stunts. Banning the word Christmas is overregulation. Labelling coffee "extremely hot" stems from a fear of litigation (an example of the free market most neo-conservatives love in action). Calling "fairy penguins" "little penguins" is a publicity stunt.
On Race
So race. I'm of the school of thought that race doesn't exist except as a socially constructed concept, but like other such concepts- money, religion, gender and corporations, to name a few, it has a very real effect on the world. Of course there are obvious physical differences between people, but: they're skin deep. The modern human race seems to have descended from a very small group in Africa, and I've recently read that there's typically more diversity in a single band of chimps than in the entire human race.[1] Compared to other species, we're basically inbreeds. It's only when people from distant parts of the world are artificially brought together- for instance, far eastern Asian, north western Europe and western sub-Saharan Africa- that an illusion of distinct races emerges. On the ground, and with more diverse migration, the problems with the idea of "race" becomes more obvious.
People like to point to differences in ability or genetics, but most of these are probably better explained culturally, or are basically insignificant. With the Olympics a very recent memory, the apparent fact that black people are faster runners is there for everyone to behold, with the unspoken corollary that if they're good at physical stuff they might not be so good at other (maybe mental?) stuff. Well, most athletics records are held by black people. But to take one example, the current 200m record is held by a Jamaican, 19.30 seconds, whearas the fastest white person, Pietro Mennea can run it in 19.72 seconds, so we're not talking apples and oranges here. We're looking at a difference of 2%.
As for genetics, it's a no brainer that we're going to be able to measure differences in two groups defined by physical characteristics. The question is "Is this the best way of defining different groups?"
White People
Australia's in an interesting situation, compared to the one I grew up with in Edinburgh, in that white is a category under threat by large numbers of people who are European, but physically or (more often) culturally different from the first few generations of Australian settlers. Because these first immigrants came from the nations of the British Isles- Ireland, Scotland, England and (probably) Wales, a lot of Australians use the terns "Anglo-Saxon", "Anglo-Celtic", or, more succinctly "Anglo". As a shorthand for "of British Descent". I guess this works, but I dislike the monolithic, pseudoscientific implications of the word, so I never use it. If you were being accurate but long winded, you might say "Anglo-Saxon-Jute-Brythonic-Irish-Scottish-Pictish-Danish-Norweigan" to try to capture the full history of the British Isles.
(Although recent genetic studies have shown that there was actually very little discontinuity in historical Britain, that the language changed more than the people during the various "invasions", and that they probably came from Spain. Which is probably why I read on a Wikipedia discussion page that Spaniards were found genetically to be the "whitest" race. All that really says is that they're closest to the standard definition of "white" in America, which, like in Australia, is a synonym for "of British descent.")
So I'll leave "Anglo" alone for now.
Another word I sometimes hear, and one which really makes my toes curl, is "Aryan". Back when linguistics was a new field, people discovered that northern Indian, Iranian, Greek and Italian languages- Latin, Greek, Sanskrit and Old for instance- were all related. They decided to call the family to which they belonged to "Aryan", after an old name for the Persian and northern Indian peoples (from "Arya", meaning noble, also the source of the current name of Persia: Iran).
Not too much later, they discovered that Germanic languages, including German, Dutch, Swedish, Norwegian, and, of course, English, are also part of the same family. Which is where Hitler and the Nazis came in, and decided that the word fitted their theories of German heritage quite well and co-opted it. They were able to contrast the Aryan master-race with the Celtic French, Spaniards, Scots and Irish, the Semitic Arabs and Jews, and the modern Indians, Greeks and Italians, who were some sort of mongrel-race only tangentially related to their blond-haired, blue eyed ancestors who created culture.
And this is as far as most people's knowledge of the word seems to go. When I hear it used, it's as a synonym for Germanic, meaning basically the same as "Anglo"- of British, and occasionally of German or Scandinavian descent.
What this ignores is that since Hitler's time, linguists realised that Celtic languages are also Aryan, so that according to the broadest definition Aryan covers pretty much all of Europe, minus a few tiny pockets such as Basque country in France and Spain, and all worldwide speakers of English, French, Spanish and Portuguese. According to its narrowest definition the word covers only Iran, and maybe northern India and some Romani (gypsies). There's no way to make it mean Germanic without buying into a disproven theory championed by the most evil man in popular culture.
PS- In linguistic discussions, "Aryan" is almost never used these days, because of its negative connotations. "Indo-European" is preferred, mainly because there's little evidence that all Proto-IE ever called themselves "Aryan".
The word Caucasian, along with its buddies Negroid and Mongoloid, is another one I tend to avoid. In the 19th century, or thereabouts, these words were coined in an attempt to give a scientific veneer to the concept of race, which was of course a key component of the European concept of their manifest destiny. The idea behind these labels was that White People originated in the Caucasus region (in modern Georgia), Yellow People in the vicinity of Mongolia, and Black People came from planet Negro (psych! They basically just decided to use a Neo-Latinish word for "Black").
Of course, this meant there was a lot of fun, and little consensus, deciding where, for example, Indians (who are a pretty diverse group in themselves), North Africans, Indochinese, Polynesians, Native Americans and Native Australians. One obvious illustration that race is a social construct, is that the definition decided upon in most cases dovetailed neatly with the requirements of Empire. Aboriginal Australians were blacks, and were therefore hopeless savages to be enslaved and exterminated. But the mixed race children of Indigenous Australians and British Settlers were white, and removed from their culture and land claims. Mixed-race Black/White Americans, by contrast, were legally black even if 15 of their 16 great-great-grandparents were White, providing a conveniently large pool of slave labour.
So I avoid these words, because they give a scientific legitimacy to an unscientific concept. I prefer White, Black and (for reasons discussed below) Asian, since they are at least upfront about the fact that they are inadequate words used for convenience for more complex, and dubious, ideas.
When I first arrived in Australia, I was surprised to hear the word "wog" used to describe Greeks. Here, it can be any European, or Middle-Eastern, or North African, or even South American, of "non-Germanic" descent. Basically, it's "white" but different enough culturally, to need distinguishing. In Edinburgh, I had no concept of this category, probably because there weren't large enough numbers of Italians, Greeks or Lebanese to bring about awareness of them as a non-mainstream, but somehow cohesive group.
The stereotypes of Wogs are strong adherence to religion- Catholic, Orthodox or Muslim, big, extended families and chauvinistic men. Oh, and great food- kebabs, souvlakis, pasta. Probably because this whole stereotype is new to me, I find it completely bizarre, and my head doesn't really have a default slot for "wogs", any more than it has one for "Jews" or "Hispanics", white-ish ethnic groups who are significant elsewhere but weren't part of my consciousness growing up.
When you ask about where the word "Wog" comes from, people here often tell you it's an acronym of "Western Oriental Gentleman", something I highly doubt. Along with "Prisoner of Her Majesty" for Pom (English), it's almost certainly a backronym, invented after the fact to explain where the word came from. More likely, it comes form the English use of Wog, from golliwog. Used first to refer to black-face minstrel-looking dolls, then black people, then Indians, then, in Australia, to Mediterraneans, slightly darker than the average British immigrant, and finally, to the non-Mediterranean immigrants who seemed to share the same stereotypes I've already listed.
Calling people only slightly darker than you "wog", a word which basically means "black", seems a bit bizarre at first, but the surnames "White" and "Black" come via the same thinking. In small British villages, the darkest person, in hair or skin, was "black", and the lightest "white". It might seem strange to us, living in a world where we could at any time meet people who are actually near-white to near-black (but are usually some shade of brown), but to me it highlights the relativity, and potential harmlessness, of those words.
One interesting thing about Wogs, along with every other group who are neither "completely white" or "black", is the way that they are seen as "more black" than normal white people, as if race is a spectrum, with "Germanics" on one end, and the blackest Africans on the other, and everyone else somewhere along the line, more focus being placed, usually, on the fact that they are "less white". I've seen Black stereotypes (which are really African American stereotypes in most cases)- rhythm, big asses, big dicks- applied to my half-Iraqi, half-Anglo-Australian housemate, and a friend from work's Maori boyfriend.
Which raises the point of…
Coloured/People of Colour
Another word I don't use much, but which has a more salubrious history. Coloured has meant different things- Black in mid-20th century American America, mixed Black/White in South Africa- but here I use it in the sense of non-White. The justification, along with the similarly inclusive word "queer" is that it brings together diverse groups with similar interests (in a Western context, at least). The problem for me is that it legitimises the concept of "White" purity, while mashing the huge diversity that exists among what amounts to around 83% of the world's population, reducing them to a faceless brown horde along the lines of the Persian army in 300. I prefer the term "Non-White". It can be argued, on a fairly simplistic level in my opinion, that this a negative term, but I think that it captures the contingency of grouping people together for political purposes.
Historically, the word "black" has served the same purpose as "coloured", and sometimes it still does- my Sub-continental friends refer to themselves as "black" on occasion, and inner city Sydney Asians, Australian Aborigines and continental Africans seem to identify with Black- that is, Black American- culture, on a level that I think has something to do with its status as the non-white culture par excellence. Again, I dislike this use. Generally, the pattern is that I dislike words that emphasise homogeneity and downplay diversity.
Sydney is full of Asians. And the funny thing is that most of them probably, would identify themselves as "Asians" back in Asia. There they'd be Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, or whatever else, and be able to list ways in which they differ from their neighbours, both in dress sense and in physical appearance. The interesting thing about Asia, as opposed to Europe, is that Asia has never been united, or even defined in the modern sense, by its own people. Most of Europe was one state under the Roman Empire, and even the parts that weren't (Russia, Scandinavia) have to claim to be part of that Europe for the propaganda benefits of the Roman, Greek and Christian culture that forms the basis of European Identity.
Asia, and Africa, coincidentally, are European concepts. Asia originally referred to the Middle-East, since the Greeks didn't have much idea how far away the rest of Asia was. When more recent Europeans discovered how big the continent was, they kept the term Asia to refer to everything east of Christendom, lumping together people as diverse as Turks, Arabs, Indians, Siberians and Chinese under one category. Because of this linguistic accident both Indians and Chinese can belong to the same race- Asian (in the UK, sub-continentals and generally called "Asian", and East-Asians, are, if I remember correctly, "Chinesey" or "Oriental", but in Australia Asian always means East Asian). Of course, this definition of continents has had real political consequences in the creation of Asian and African economic super-national entities, defined roughly according to boundaries established by Europeans, which shows that the way you use language can really shape the world.
So "Asian" is an unsatisfactory term, but it's widely understood, not usually offensive, and better than "yellow", with all the negative Fu Manchu associations that word brings with it.
Mixed Race
This is the word that best describes me, but strangely the one I feel I have the least to say about. "Mixed race" is probably the safest phrase to use. "Bi-" or "multi-racial" work too, but they're getting a bit clinical. "Half-caste" or "mulatto" are usually offensive, but I actually don't mind them that much, and some people seem to have started reclaiming them, maybe for their slightly anachronistic charm. Maybe mixed race people haven't been subjected to enough historical discrimination, as mixed race people as opposed to part of whichever minority they are part of, to make these words particularly offensive.
What else to say? The very excellent podcast Addicted to Race, and the related blog Racialicious cover a lot of the issues related to mixed race identity. One of the biggest issues is identifying as mixed race as opposed to black (or whatever minority you're part of). This has been pretty noticeable recently with the press surrounding Barack Obama; although it's a somewhat unusual case, in that people are usually pressing mixed race people to identify more with their minority heritage, for reasons of solidarity on one side, and to protect the purity of whiteness as an ideal on the other. The fact that the Right has been so busy questioning Obama's blackness has much more to do with political motives than any sudden awareness of mixed race identity issues.
To come round to the question I started this post with, "African-American (or is it black? Or negro?)", I'd say the answer is African-American, or Black, but never negro. As I've said before, negro (in English) has a pseudoscientific veneer, and a history of association with legalised Black American oppression, including slavery. Since I'm not American, I can't really comment on whether Black- or African- is a better prefix, but unhyphenated Black is probably safer as a general term. That way you won't look stupid calling someone African-American who may have African ancestry, but is certainly not American.
And the question of why have more than one set of words for a group of people? Why not? Having lots of words for the same thing may piss off second language learners, but for the rest of us they make the language richer with nuance.
[1] Mentioned in The Origins of Virtue by Matt Ridley (1997, Viking, Great Britain), but since I'm not sure of the page number, but also cited in Brooks, Martin (1999). Apocalypse then. Our genes show that early humans teetered on the brink of extinction. New Scientist 163. 2199 (14 August): 32. according to this site
One thought on "Political Correctness and Talking about Race"
Excellent post! I agree that Black is usually the way to go and if you want to get formal (at least here in the States) African-American is what's used.
I had never heard the term Wog before and I find it hilarious especially because I would certainly fit into that "group" since I'm of Canary Island decent, making me a mix of white Spaniards and the Berber natives of the islands. (I'm labeled Hispanic or Latino over here.)
I want to restate that humans are probably the least diverse ape on the planet and yet we insist on these stupid made-up categories.