text:
Industrial Worker interview with Joe Burns, author of Reviving the Strike
Joe Burns: What The Labor Movement Needs
By John Maclean, Industrial Worker
The following interview was conducted with Joe Burns, author of the recently-published book "Reviving the Strike: How Working People Can Regain Power and Transform America" (Ig Publishing, 2011).
Industrial Worker: You follow James Begin and Edwin Beal, the authors of the textbook "The Practice of Collective Bargaining," in contending that the "purpose of striking" is to deny access to a productive plant "until it is ransomed by a satisfactory settlement." What do you think about the recent closing of the Minnesota state government, the Washington, D.C. debt ceiling theater, and settled attempts to "bleed" the pocketbooks of the working poor, elderly, and disabled, but not the bosses?
Joe Burns: Traditional labor economists understood that to be effective, union strike activity needed to impose economic pain upon employers. A strike which effectively halted production or a boycott which caused an employer's business partners to cut off ties caused employers to feel pain during a strike.
Today, under a system of pro-employer labor laws and practices which I call the "system of labor control," only workers feel pain during a strike. Tactics such as mass picketing, secondary strikes, and quickie strikes are not allowed precisely because they are effective at harming employers.
Likewise, in the context you speak about, in the government shutdowns or fake budget "crisis," conservatives are not the ones feeling the pain. They don't care if people don't get government services. In fact they like it. The question for our movement is how to start causing the corporate elite to feel some of the pain. That means disrupting the only thing they care about—their ability to accumulate wealth off of the labor of workers. That is why we need an effective strike.
IW: You write that the outlawing of solidarity "began" with the National Labor Relations Act in 1935, became "explicit" with the Taft-Hartley Act of 1947, and was "furthered along" by many [U.S.] Supreme Court decisions. In the 1930s unions flowered "through solidarity," and by the 1980s they were being wrecked by a lack of the same. Can you help people new to labor understand these legalistic intrusions into our right to free association?
JB: Solidarity is the heart and soul of trade unionism. Labor's traditional tactics of solidarity allowed workers to join together across employers and even industries to confront employers together. The great strikes of labor history involved tens or hundreds of thousands of workers striking regional or national industries at once. Today, in contrast, unionists are often legally forced to strike one plant of a giant corporation.
Additionally, trade unionists were able to use powerful tactics of solidarity such as striking or boycotting business partners of struck firms. These solidarity tactics, which the legal system calls "secondary activity," were so powerful [that] Congress outlawed them in the 1947 Taft Hartley Act. At a deeper level, the very structure of labor law encourages narrow collective bargaining. That makes it impossible to standardize wages within an industry and to maintain stable collective bargaining. We can't win without solidarity. It's hard to see the revival of the labor movement taking place based on organizing and bargaining shop-by-shop. It will require taking on entire corporations and industries at once.
IW: You write that with fewer strikes, union membership has declined, and that there has been a failure to find alternatives to striking. Tell us about some of these failed alternatives, and the importance of building solidarity in struggle.
JB: Since the mid-1990s, trade unionists have attempted to revive trade unionism without a powerful strike. Our main strategy has been to organize the unorganized either within or without the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). The strategy has not worked. Despite massive expenditures of resources (including over $1.5 billion by the Service Employees International Unions since 1995), the percent of private sector workers organized into unions has dropped from 10 percent in 1995 to about 7 percent today.
In "Reviving the Strike," I argue the reason is our lack of tactics capable of improving workers' lives. Lacking a powerful strike, trade unions are unable to win higher wages and benefits. Workers have shown zero interest in joining a weak and declining labor movement. Developing an effective strike should be the main focus of labor.
Instead, many trade unionists look further and further from the workplace and shop-floor struggle. So we see calls for social unionism centered on coalition building with non-profits, living wage campaigns, and even converting unions into mass protest vehicles divorced from the workplace. All good stuff, but what we need is a workplace-centered grassroots movement capable of interrupting the sale of human labor.
IW: In your book you write about the limited successes of "minority unionism" at Starbucks. Given the recently-terminated strike of independent Starbucks employees in Chile, what would you say to unionists organizing the coffee giant worldwide?
JB: The concepts of minority unionism and solidarity unionism are extremely important. A union is a group of workers and not an entity decreed by the government. The sort of non-bureaucratic, grassroots organizations being built by activists at Starbucks is what the labor movement needs. The challenge for advocates of minority unionism, and for workers' centers in general, is how take on powerful corporations. Building organization is only one piece of the puzzle.
Whether one advocates majority or minority unionism, the question is the same: how to build worker organizations capable of confronting capital and improving workers lives. Absent direct economic power, advocates of minority unionism are left with the same reliance on NLRB charges and elections. That was the question confronting activists at Jimmy John's earlier this year when deciding whether to hold an NLRB election or engage in direct action.
IW: Finally, give us your sense of what needs to happen for labor to break free of the system of labor control in the United States. When you wrote about the things we could learn from the right in this country, I recalled William D. Haywood characterizing the founding convention of the IWW as a "continental congress of the working class" directed toward freeing it from the "slave bondage of capitalism."
JB: We cannot have effective trade unionism without challenging capital's control over the workplace, industry and the economy. An effective strike, one which stops production or disrupts the supply chain of an employer, by definition challenges the employers' "right" to run "their" business. Underlying the system of labor control are a set of what law professor James Attleson calls pro-management "values and assumptions," which in many ways are more important than individual case law. Challenging these ideas is critical to reviving trade unionism.
While radical unionists such as the IWW in the 1910s or the early CIO [Congress of Industrial Organizations] unionists of the 1930s certainly understood this, I argue many ideas of the relatively conservative American Federation of Labor also challenged capital more than the modern trade union movement. Mainstream labor ideas such as "human labor is not a commodity" and "labor creates all wealth" fueled militant strike activity.
This article originally appeared in the October, 2011, issue of the Industrial Worker newspaper


text:
The Midwest was hit with a major tornado outbreak on Sunday, November 17, 2013. The preliminary reports can be found on the NOAA Storm Prediction Center reports page. Below is a map showing the preliminary reports. Click on the map to go to the Storm Prediction Center Google map server to zoom in and out, etc. Additional NWS reports can be found from the Chicago office and Lincoln office. At this time, the communities hardest hit in Illinois were Pekin, Washington, and Gifford.
While the primary tornado season in Illinois is in April through June period (plot below), it is possible to experience tornadoes in any month in Illinois. In fact, the odds are slightly higher in November than in October or December. These numbers are based on a study using tornado events from 1950 to 2010 in Illinois.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Weddings at Manor House Hotel
Weddings at Manor House Hotel, Castle Combe here in Wiltshire are always ones I look forward to photographing for a couple of reasons. It's local for a start, but mostly because its a wonderful wonderful old wedding venue surrounded by stunning gardens and greenery in one of the most idyllic little villages in Wiltshire. What more could you want for your wedding? I have more Weddings at Manor House Hotel schedule for later this year and 2013 and I'm very much looking forward to those too. However, onto the story of Emily and Will……
Emily and Will came to meet me in my studio last year and, with a bizarre twist, it turned out that Will and I went to the same school back in South Wales. In fact, Will's brother who was one of the ushers was in the same year as me and we also went to the same church. Small world hey! Both Emily and Will work in TV and after meeting them I was pretty excited by the prospect of being their wedding photographer and I wasn't let down by a wedding that was both intimate, friendly and wildly fun too for the guests.
The day started with some bridal preparation photography of Emily and her gorgeous little bridesmaids – who added a lot of character throughout the day (in fact, I think the one of the shots toward the end of this selection with the girls on the dance floor is one of my favourites of the year).
Weddings at Manor House Hotel are great for us photographers – the bridal rooms are big and airy and there is always something going on. I shot for a while with Emily before heading out ready for the ceremony which was in the church next door.
Luckily the weather held on for us and Emily and her dad were able to walk the short distance to the church where they were met by the bubbly bridesmaids once again. The ceremony was lovely of course, but often my favourite part of the wedding day to photograph is immediate after-moments of the ceremony.
When the bride and groom leave the church and the guests spill out and unite in giving them congratulations, hugs, kisses and excited looks and laughter. Sometimes I get a little frustrated that people seem to spend more time fiddling with their iPhones than enjoying this moment but I guess that's the world we live in these days.
Back at the Manor House Hotel, there was a champagne reception before the guests made there way into the wedding room for breakfast. There was plenty more fun to come with some raucous speeches and very infectious laughter throughout…..then the dancing!
As usual, here is a selection of my favourites from the wedding. As mentioned Weddings at Manor House Hotel enable me to really stretch my muscles throughout the day so there is a large selection of images here. I really hope you like them and please feel free to comment, or share on social media using the buttons.
If you were a guest at the wedding, you can see the whole selection of images here.
If you are looking at Weddings at Manor House Hotel, Castle Combe please do get in touch to discuss your wedding photography requirements.


text: Las Terrazas Belize Boutique Resort Map Las Terrazas is an island community of 35 fully-furnished townhomes with an additional 40 planned townhomes nestled on 4.8 acres of private beachfront property on the popular island vacation destination of Ambergris Caye, Belize. Each residential townhome has been fully furnished and handsomely appointed with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, flat-panel televisions, ipod docking stations, high-speed internet, cable TV, central A/C, full size washer & dryers and everything necessary for guests to immediately settle into a relaxing Belize island vacation at our luxury boutique Ambergris Caye resort. North of San Pedro on the island of Ambergris Caye, Las Terrazas Resort is located on one of the largest private beaches on the island. Our location provides privacy and a secluded tropical atmosphere within a short 10 minute boat ride of San Pedro. Ambergris Caye is Belize's largest island and known for the phrase, "no shirt, no shoes, no problem". Guests of Las Terrazas Resort will enjoy luxurious yet laid-back island living and the convenience of reaching Ambergris Caye from Belize City by a short flight. Multiple airlines also offer convenient flights from the United States and Canada.


text:
Essay on ADVERTISEMENT
Jose John October 17, 2015 No CommentsADVERTISEMENT We are living in the age of advertisements. Wherever we cast glance we see around us advertisements. It plays an important role in the modern world of trade and business. Even the smallest or the biggest traders use the techniques to advertise their goods and commodities. Nowadays our world has become very competitive. Everybody wants to be number one in the race of competition. So it proves to be very helpful to traders and businessmen. Employment column is very helpful to unemployed boys and girls. Matrimonial advertisement also serves the purpose of marriage of the children of parents. Advertisement of missing goods and persons, plots and shops to let or on sale and tutors for children are all very useful and informative. Advertisement has become necessary in every walk of life. Some years ago we used to see these advertisements in the newspapers, cinema-halls, on the walls of the public places and in the magazines, but nowadays TV has made them most important. All the big businessmen are spending money on them very lavishly. Radio sets and transistors are also playing very important role in an advertising the goods. We see big posters and signboards on the crossings of the roads, at railway station and on the walls... read more


text:
Seamless Clip Down Maternity and Nursing Bra
Product #: 001-81923-006-001
Was $42.00 Now $31.50
Additional Information
For everyday support, choose the top-rated seamless bra. The comfortable style goes the long haul with you, thanks to its classic silhouette and clip-down straps made for easy and efficient nursing or pumping. This style is perfect from day to night and can even be slept in; it is wireless and of course seamless. We recommend always having 4 bras on hand for wear, work, wash - whatever.
Product Details
- maternity and nursing bra
- clip down
- medium support
- seamless
- nylon / spandex
- hand wash
- imported


text:
BT Panorama sees jump in funds under administration
Funds under administration for BT Panorama have increased to $3.9 billion at 31 March 2017 following further developments to the platform.
In Westpac's results announcement, the bank's chief executive Brian Hartzer said the overall statutory net profit for Westpac for the 12 months to 31 March was $3,907 million, a 6 per cent increase from the same period the previous year.
"The benefits of our strategy are clear in this result. We've digitised more processes which improved service for customers while also bringing costs down," Mr Hartzer said.
"We've launched a number of new systems including Samsung Pay, SuperCheck and our new wealth system Panorama and we've added around 100 new online features to assist customers."
Westpac Group said it has now largely completed its SMSF and wealth platform system Panorama, and has improved the functionality and usability of various mobile applications and is continuing to digitise manual activity.
"The group has continued to experience growth in wealth and insurance, with funds on the new Panorama system increasing by over $1 billion and life in-force premiums rising 6 per cent," Westpac said.
BTFG chief executive Brad Cooper said BT was operating in a challenging environment but it had achieved significant strategic milestones across the business.
"This half, we delivered a step change in managing clients' superannuation, SMSFs and investments with the integration of superannuation and insurance on BT Panorama," Mr Cooper said.
"This was a crucial milestone in the build of BT Panorama as advisers now have an end-to-end solution to manage all of their clients' financial needs no matter their product structure."


text:
❮ Back | ×
Please select all options below.
Product Code: NABVPK-BLK
Keep the celebration neat and tidy with Black Big Party Pack Beverage Napkins. These classic, solid color napkins are the perfect size for serving with drinks, appetizers or desserts. Mix and match Black Beverage Napkins with other solid color Big Party Pack tableware items to create a one-of-a-kind celebration.
Please allow ample time for delivery. The delivery date for this product is noted above for US shipping only. Please refer to checkout for delivery dates outside of the Contiguous 48 States.
Shipping charges are based on the value of the merchandise and not the number of shipments. For additional shipping information, please contact our Customer Service Department at 800-348-5084.


text:
Thanks to Eddie at Vid-Atlantic, I got to try the CineMorph mod filter that fits the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 ART. The results are addictive, with wide angle, extreme close up anamorphic character. I love it!
- Look for a Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 ART on eBay
- Get Vid-Atlantic's recommended EF to E-mount adapter on eBay
- Get the CineMorph Mod at Vid-Atlantic
- Check Vid-Atlantic's shop
- Playlist on Anamorfaking
All the RED links on this post are part of eBay's Partner Network, so if you purchase anything through them, you're helping me to keep this project going.
You can support this project on Patreon. Make your contribution and help the Anamorphic Cookbook!


text:
Contemporary living room design – We have an empty and spacious space that has to become a living room. Where do we start? Designing a room may seem a priori a simple task, but when, in hand, we begin to distribute the room, the thing begins to get complicated. Where is it best to place the sofas? And what is equally important, how do we put them? Once chosen the position of the large furniture that will mark the distribution and organization of our space, we will need to think about what style, what pieces and, finally, what decoration.
The first stop of this tour is, as it could not be otherwise, access. We entered this contemporary living room design through a door designed especially for this space: glass and white iron carpentries. Through this transparent separation element the salon of the distributor is independent, but only acoustically. The visuals cross this great door giving continuity to the space with the rest of the house. This fact is also emphasized with the use of the same wooden pavement inside and outside. We can observe how the decoration does not start from doors in, in this vestibule of the hall also has been incorporated a wink to the decoration.
12 Photos Gallery of: Secret Keys For Contemporary Living Room Design
We now look at the main area we find in this great contemporary living room design. The large cream-colored sofa made up of modules like a large tetris is placed in front of the wall where the big television has been arranged. Undoubtedly, this great piece takes center stage and helps to zonify this space. It complements to its right by a smaller size seat and the same style, so that both sofas are arranged forming an L. In the enclosure space we find auxiliary tables of small size and a carpet also cream colored that dresses the bare floor. At the front, a wooden piece supports the TV and other electronic devices. We cannot forget to name the great lamp that on the ceiling sends light to different directions.


text:
How To Make A Beautiful DIY Handbag
>> More DIY Ideas <<
A brand name handbag such as these ones here can easily cost hundreds if not thousands of dollars. This is where you can use your craft skills and save a lot of money.
Another beauty of DIY handbag is that your bag is unique. Never worry that somebody carries the same bag as yours.
This wooden handle handbag we are featuring today is incredibly easy for any fabric lovers. This bag look great with a casual top and a jeans on a casual day out. All you need to make this bag are
- fabric in a chic print
- wooden circles for handles
- pattern and translated step by step tutorial from femme2decotv


text: This 34.5mm. OMEGA SEAMASTER dates to 1950 having a very fine original "Explorer" style dial with Breguet style numerals and matching arrow markers and sweep seconds. The correct OMEGA winding crown is installed. The rugged gold capped case over steel with steel back has not been polished-looking great with only minor and usual marks for a watch of this age. The correct notched OMEGA winding crown is installed. The fine caliber 351 bumper automatic OMEGA movement was just cleaned and is accurate. I love these 50's Seamasters. They are highly reliable and great looking on the wrist!


text:
Donation Information:
If you would like to make a donation to the sanctuary for the animal on this page, fill out the form below. You may use either a credit card, or you may make the payment through Paypal.
To make a general donation to the sanctuary, please follow these links


text:
33 designisms from Morla Design
01. Design does not live in an aesthetic vacuum. Design is influenced by and influences contemporary society.
02. Design brings content into focus; design makes function visible.
03. Design is not solely a marketing device that supports consumerism. It can be a communicator of dissent. It can market ideology. It can effect change.
04. Design must surprise and inform. And it must do so in that order. Surprise your audience with the unexpected. Then allow their curiosity to lead them to the message.
05. Design can be seductive propaganda. It is our responsibility to be knowledgeable about what we are asked to communicate. We need to make educated choices about what type of work we are willing to do. Make your decisions educated decisions.
06. Design has a rather symbiotic relationship with style, and style is somewhat precarious. What looks great today may look silly in 15 years, and maybe if you're extremely lucky and talented, it will look good again in 20. Great design is, quite simply, innovation that reflects the spirit of an era and becomes a classic because of its timeless appeal.
07. Question the need for any piece of print communication. It is the most elementary way of protecting the environment. Often, the communication can be executed in a much more meaningful way which goes beyond traditional design vehicles.
08. Respect the power of printing. A piece of paper doesn't necessarily go away. THAT message, THAT image, with your name proudly credited in four-point type, may last decades. A humbling thought.
09. Multiplicity works. Sol Lewitt knew it when he lined up 100 white boxes on a floor. Bruce Mao knew it when he put hundreds of big, grainy pictures back to back for Rem Koolhass, and the Gap knows it when they fill their windows with hundreds of kids' sneakers.
10. Design that moves others comes from issues that move you.
11. Find your own voice. By experimenting, by allowing the time to experiment, and by taking risks. Which is why being in school is a luxury. School allows you the structured time to take risks.
12. No design is completely original. We are all influenced by the bombardment of visual information we are exposed to on a daily basis. But understand that influence and plagiarism are two different things.
13. A good designer is a great listener. And if you listen smartly, the client nearly always tells you the solution.
14. A good designer is a great storyteller. Every company, service or institution has a story to tell. Explore the narrative and banish the banal corporate speak we've read a million times before.
15. Typography can be revolutionary, and not in a stylistic way.To quote Ellen Lupton: "Matthew Carter's Bell Centennial font was designed for maximum legibility at a minimum size. It is used in the US phone books. Bell Centennial has saved millions of trees."
16. Words are as important as images and images can be more powerful than words. And that image is rarely a stock image. Create your own images, they will always be uniquely yours.
17. Accidents often produce the best solutions. And accidents are a hands on experience. Only you can recognize the difference between an accident and your original intent.
18. Process can manifest the solution. There are no shortcuts to smart solutions. And smart designers take the time to do the following: first they research (the finding and gathering of information), they analyze (how does this research inform the problem and what is the relevance of the data), then they ideate (conceiving design concepts based on this analysis), then strategize (how many ways can each of these ideas solve the problem? And which medium is the best form for the solution: video? Book? Installation? Advertising? Interactive?), then onto creation (the process of making the form), and lastly they evaluate.
19. Passion enables us to remain true to our creative vision.Analyze, synthesize, visualize, but don't compromise.
20. Extremes work. Really large, or really thick, or really small, or really colorful, or really simple, or really dense. Really.
21. "Design must always be in service to solving a problem, or its not design, its art." Many thanks Chip Kidd for creating such a smart, fictional character whose dialog includes that quote.
22. Reconsider absolutes, question the status quo. Question the subscribed design vocabulary for a given audience. Consider how David Carson manipulated type for Beach Culture magazine and how John Plunkett and Barbara Kuhr defined the look of the dot-com era with Wired Magazine. As radical as these solutions appeared to be at the time, they were all appropriate to the gestalt of the client and spoke to their audience in a meaningful way.
23. We are the creators of artifacts.
24. "The medium is the message." So Marshall McLuhan said. And so says Valerie Steel, Chief curator of the Museum at FIT, who wrote an excellent essay on object-based art criticism that I have used to measure and critique my own work.
A critical analysis of artifacts involves questioning how one interacts with the piece, what is the experience, how does it function, how does this piece compare to other similar or related pieces. What are its cultural, technological and stylistic forbearers? What relationship does this have to the culture in which it was produced? What does it reveal about the culture? What function does this object perform within its culture?
By posing these questions, we are not only evaluating the stylistic structure and content of any given piece, but questioning the object itself, for example: question the annual report as the de facto delivery vehicle for corporate message and fiscal reporting. Allow yourself the opportunity to question the form of the communication delivery system.
25. Designing takes time.
26. Ideas come faster the older you get. Experience is a wonderful and painful thing, but it does give you the ability to generate more ideas exponentially each time.
27. Asking questions generates more ideas.
28. Practice articulating design concepts without revealing the stylistic approach.
29. "Seriously funny" works. Seriously. Just think of Tibor Kallman. Seriously funny was in his DNA.
30. Dichotomy works. Try juxtaposing opposites: the historical with the vernacular; the rough with the refined; the brash with the sublime.
31. Design is like architecture; we structure space to facilitate the experience. Are you creating a minimal, modernist masterpiece, or a dense maze of information?
32. The space in between is as important as the space occupied.The space between the letters. The space between the words. The space between the lines. The space from top to bottom.
33. Design can be articulated through action, words, images or form. All can have equal value and equal impact.


text:
Member Articles
The nag-free morning routine
Give your kids a to do list
by Shannon Hutton, M.Ed., M.P.A. | 11869 views | 6 comments | Rate this now!Follow @Work_It_Mom
6 comments so far...
Can you provide some example of the morning list, especially the one with pictures, for young kids? I have 3 very young kids (6,4 and 2) and our mornings are absolutely crazy!!!
Thank you.
Flag as inappropriate Posted by Miha Cruceana on 1st November 2012
= = = = = { www.voguecatch.us }===
Air Jordan (1-24) shoes $35
Nike shox (R4, NZ, OZ, TL1, TL2, TL3) $35
Han bags ( Coach Lv fendi D&G) $35
T-shirts (polo, ed hardy, lacoste) $16
Jean (True Religion, ed hardy, coogi)$34
Sunglasses ( Oakey, coach, Gucci, Armaini)$15
New era cap $16
Bikini (Ed hardy, polo) $18
= = =www.voguecatch.us =
Reported Posted by ndks eihds on 17th June 2011
Hi Lorna,
We meet again! I love lists, I couldn't live without them! The best part of the morning list is that I don't have to keep saying the same things over and over again!
Flag as inappropriate Posted by Shannon Hutton, M.Ed., M.P.A. on 5th October 2007
I am a list maker extraordinaire, so I could get on board with this quite easily. I love the fact that it can take some of the negativity out of your day, as well as your kids' by cutting out some of the nagging.
Flag as inappropriate Posted by Lorna Doone Brewer on 4th October 2007
Thanks for the endorsement! It really does work!
Flag as inappropriate Posted by Shannon Hutton, M.Ed., M.P.A. on 26th September 2007
Hey, it works! My husband used to have morning and evening lists for his kids. We may need to think about starting them up again.
Flag as inappropriate Posted by Florinda Pendley Vasquez on 18th September 2007


text:
Bondi Vixen: Interview (Bondi FM) Part Two…
7. So Sam, what are your thoughts on fitness-based first dates?
You know what they say, "couples that play together, stay together!"
Fitness-based dates are fantastic for a number of reasons! Gosh, where do I start?
A fitness-based date naturally allows you to relax and focus on the activity, rather than any-old sit-down-and-share-a-meal-together date. Focusing on an activity naturally reduces nerves and allows those lovely endorphins we all love to be released throughout the world. The release of endorphins also promotes the release of the natural love drug oxytocin, which is commonly known as the "love drug".
Fitness dates are so much fun. Think of how much you laugh in a training session with friends?
8. Sounds like they would be great for a transition to the next date, not having to stress about what to do on your next date would be great. What do you think, Sam?
You're absolutely right, Vix! The great thing about fitness first dates is they really do reduce the anxiety of the next date. What a perfect prep for the next one… another fun activity! Another run, another game of tennis – whatever tickles your fancy!
9. Vix mentioned Oxytocin?
Yes, the neurochemical of love – aka "the cuddle hormone." Did you know people with an inability to release oxytocin have narcissistic tendencies? I find that fascinating! Oxytocin is a remarkable hormone. It's the hormone that allows you to sleep for hours when you are in the honeymoon phase of your relationship and still feel fantastic.
Interestingly, Oxytoxin gives you a very similar feeling that you get after the release of endorphins, post-exercise.
10. Vix – sounds like if you want to feel loved up, get out there and exercise!!
[Laughing] Absolutely, Vix!
11. Back to the topic of fitness and dating. How do you think people react to a fitness based date? Wouldn't people prefer just to go on a dinner date rather than get all hot and sweaty?
Good point, Vix! I hear what you are saying, but let's face it; first dates is all about standing out from the crowd. Why not do something different?
A fitness first date not only solidifies your common ground (as mentioned earlier), but it also reduces nerves and takes the focus off a date with perhaps a relative stranger.
I remember one of my early dates with my husband was a fitness date. It was a run through the domain in the city. We started at Lady Macquarie's chair.
It was a big challenge was to run up the stair together. In the end we got flirty and I challenged him to piggy back me up the stairs. It was my opportunity to challenge and tease him in a nice way and his opportunity to show off his strength. It makes for better conversation later than saying; "how was your steak?" or "hmm…nice wine."
I have recommended these kind of dates to so many of my clients. Why not make the most of this beautiful country we live in?
12. It sounds like a fitness date is all about bringing out the inner child in you?
You are spot on, Vix! I'm a big believer in nurturing your inner child. Keeping your inner child is very sexy. Your inner child is positive yet vulnerable, and always has the best intentions. Your inner child is free, fresh and adventurous!
Think about the playful celebrities that have a shining inner child. Think Drew Barrymore – she's always so playful! It's really appealing.
Oh and that big guy [Jason Segel] from How I Met Your Mother – I agree, his personality is very attractive!
13. Loving the sound of the fitness dates. They seem to take off so much pressure! What would you say are the top fitness date ideas you would recommend over the standard sedentary dinner and drinks?
Now you know I could be forever here, Vix!
Ok, my absolute favourite first dates are water-based ones and what better place than the world famous Bondi Beach? Bondi has such a vibe, it's an incredible place. And the best part for Sydney-siders is that it's right at our finger tips. Why not make the most of this blessing?
14. Ok so do tell, what are your recommended "outdoorsy" dates?
Stand up paddle boarding – make sure it's a calm day. What a better way to enjoy the date and get to know each other than hitting the beach? This is your opportunity to learn something new together. Polish up your existing skills or teach your date just how it's done!
Kayaking is also wonderful. For calmer waters and those who prefer to sit down, kayaking is a great way to enjoy the harbour. You can even enjoy a sneaky wine when you get to your destination. There are so many amazing islands you can explore together. You can even fish off a kayak!
Bondi to Bronte Walk – Soak up the sun and the smell of the sea, walk over to Bronte for some lunch and back to Bondi for dessert… yum!
Stretch out with some yoga. It's fun to compare flexibility and watch a man sweat!
A game of tennis is a lot of fun and can bring out your competitive edge.
Personal training session with a professional. Talk about the ultimate third wheel. If I fell into matchmaking through training a few people, there must be something to it!


text: Crash on Highway 56 Crash on Highway 56 ∞ views ∞ views Would you like to read this article and use one of your 0 remaining views? Read Enjoy great local journalism? Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in Log In To Read Subscribe to access more great content! Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in Latest Summer Food Service Program Chamber addresses county Crook Awarded DeKalb County 4-H Memorial Scholarship School budget


text:
Train Grenoble → Lille
Duration 4h30 - From AU$107
- Departure station : Grenoble (1, Place de la gare 38000 Grenoble)
- Arrival station : Lille flandres (Place des Buisses 59000 Lille)
Lille europe (1, Place François Mitterand 59777 Lille)
All it's cracked up to be
Grenoble, capital of the Alps In the heart of Alps region is Grenoble, a town with an exceptional natural environment. Grenoble has a rich cultural diversity and heritage. It is also a vibrant, modern city open to the world. Grenoble can be easily visited by foot, bicycle or tram. For those who love sports, there are several activities which can be done: skiing, golf, mountain biking, cycling, and much more. There are 15 museums to explore including the Museum of Grenoble, one of the most prestigious art museums in Europe, and the Dauphinois Museum. Take the cable car ride to Fort de la Bastille and discover a breathtaking view of Grenoble and the surrounding mountains. Learn more about Grenoble
Lille, the gateway to Northern France
Lille, the gateway to Northern France Lille is an artistic and historic city located in Northern France. It is France's 4th largest metropolitan area with about 1.1 million inhabitants and about 100,000 students. In 2004, it was designated as the European Capital of Culture. Lille is at the crossroad of international railway network of Europe with easy access to Belgium and the UK. The city has a long-standing festive tradition. The famous Braderie in September is the main event for all shopping addicts. Lille is also regarded as the European capital of online retail with main brands such as La Redoute, Les 3 Suisses, Camaïeu, Castorama and Décathlon having stores in the city. Learn more about Lille
Book your journey from Grenoble to Lille From AU$107 AU$119
Practical information
Reviews & ratings
Overall appreciation
No reviews for this product yet


text:
The talk was lively in this week's podcast. It was an open topic week and we covered a lot of ground. The highlights were a discussion of performance monitoring featuring Thomas Bryant and Doug Hazelman as well a call from Scott Lowe and Steve Beaver from the Virtualization Congress. As always, listen in via the widget to the right, the mp3, or via iTunes.
Next week, May 13, join special guest Paul Manning for a discussion of What's New in VMware vSphere 4: Storage. We meet every Wednesday at noon Pacific.
Upcoming events:
- May 7 Virtualization Security Roundtable Podcast on VMsafe
- May 8 What's new with vSphere Web Services SDK Deep Dive The first monthly VMware Coffee Talk Live Webinars is in two parts: part one was this mornng but you can still catch part two on Friday. Recordings are available after the life webcast.
- May 14 UK VMUG London
- May 18 First unofficial online VMUG – topics in VESI & vSphere – Alan Renouf
- May 19 VMUG Madison Wisconsin – note, this will be webcast!
New books:
- Managing VMware Infrastructure with Windows PowerShell by Hal Rottenberg
- VMware vSphereTM and Virtual Infrastructure Security by Edward Haletky
- VMware VI3 Implementation & Administration (Kindle version) by Eric Siebert
Links for your linky pleasure:
- The Blue Ocean of Performance Monitoring by Thomas Bryant
- VMware vSphere and the vStorage API by Rick Scherer
- So, what does vStorage really mean? by Chad Sakac
- Thin on Thin? Where should you do Thin Provisioning – vSphere 4.0 or Array-Level? by Chad Sakac
- Hoffacino – this explains so much about what goes on here: @Beaker
- The Marriage of Figaro: Complexity and Insecurity of the Cloud aka The Frogs Who Desired a King Chris Hoff's Virtualization Congress presentation as liveblogged by Scott Lowe
- Virtualization Congress
- Will we be forced to pay more? Part 1 & Part 2 by Maish Saidel-Keening (expect a bit more context and commentary from VMware on this topic soon)
- Hyper-V Live Migration for free, tough cookie for VMware by Gabrie van Zanten
- Video on Hyper-V Crashes by Scott Drummonds
Have a great week!


text:
Britney Spears' latest single is reportedly delayed due to problems with the Toxic singer's voice.
Plans to release the 34-year-old singer's new track Make Me (Oooh) were postponed last month (May16), due to "techinical production difficulties" with no new date announced.
And according to editors at British newspaper The Sun, the lack of new Britney material is reportedly because record company bosses are unhappy with the Baby One More Time musician's vocal work on the song.
"The single has been a nightmare for everybody involved," a source tells the paper. "When it came down to the final version of the track, the label just didn't like her voice and the producers were struggling to make it work with the recordings they had."
The publication reports producers and executives have allegedly held emergency meetings with a view to transforming the track so it is ready for release.
"They've tried to find someone to add some guest vocals to strengthen the track instead of finding time in Britney's schedule to re-record - but they've really struggled," the insider adds. "It's been very stressful, the track should have been out a long time ago now."
Make Me (Oooh) is scheduled to be the lead single from her ninth studio album, the release date of which is also yet to be announced.
In May (16), Joe Riccitelli, the Executive Vice President of Britney's record label RCA Records told America's Billboard magazine he was, "waiting for her to finish the album," and was "really excited" about the record.


text:
Restaurant Rating System
In order to easily understand whether a restaurant is worth your time, we've developed the following ratings system:
Going Back, Awesome or anything positive – I'm sure you can guess what this means 😉
Solid – It's filling, hit the spot, will likely return.
My Last Bite – It's solid, but I won't go back by my own accord ;-(
Blah!!! – I'm sure you can figure this out as well! 😉


text:
Ameae WalkerVice Provost of Academic Personnel
Professor of Biomedical Sciences
Vice Chair, Academic Senate
Distinguished Teaching Professor
Only about a third of U.S. children are breast-fed any length of time. There is increasing evidence that breast feeding decreases the risk of asthma, diabetes, necrotizing enterocolitis, as well as ear and respiratory infections. Ameae Walker's research has shown that immune cells in mother's milk foster the healthy development of a baby's immune systems. These cells teach the newborn immune system about diseases the mother has had to combat, and how to distinguish normal from diseased cells.
Areas of Expertise
- Prolactin's role in growth, cancer and immunity
- Milk immune cells
- Biomedical Sciences
- Stem Cell Center
- A major prolactin-binding complex on human milk fat globule membranes contains cyclophilins A and B: the complex is not the prolactin receptor, PubMed
- Distribution of prolactin receptors suggests an intraductal role for prolactin in the mouse and human mammary gland, a finding supported by analysis of signaling in polarized monolayer cultures, PubMed
- Prolactin increases survival and migration of ovarian cancer cells: Importance of prolactin receptor type and therapeutic potential of S179D and G129R receptor antagonists, PubMed
- Long term increased expression of the short form 1b prolactin receptor in PC- 3 human prostate cancer cells decreases cell growth and migration, and causes multiple changes in gene expression consistent with reduced invasive capacity, Uro Today
- Trans-epithelial immune cell transfer during suckling modulates delayed type hypersensitivity in recipients as a function of gender, PubMed
Select Honors and Distinctions
- DOD Breast Cancer Research Program Integration Panel (2008-present)
- Member, UCR Academy of Distinguished Teachers (2006)
- Chair, Gordon Research Conference on Prolactin (1996)
Q: Tell us why your research is important to society.
We have shown that some immune cells in mother's milk are specifically taken up by her baby's tissues, and that they affect development of the baby's own immune system. Transfer of these cells alters immunity throughout life, including the mechanism that recognizes cancer cells and cells infected with organisms like those that cause tuberculosis. Our research emphasizes another aspect of the importance of breast feeding, and suggests the possibility that we may be able to harness this mechanism to safely enhance infant immunity. We also anticipate learning more about development of the immune system in general, as well as the difference in susceptibility to immune disease between males and females.
Q: What are the big challenges researchers in your field are trying to address?
In the thymus, there are processes referred to as positive and negative selection whereby the immune system can create a strong reaction against abnormal cells and cells harboring invading organisms, without creating autoimmune disease, which is a reaction against normal cells. There is much we don't yet understand about his process. Milk cells in the thymus can affect both positive and negative selection.
Q: What is the biggest myth about your research?
Because babies grow well on formula, there is a tendency to assume that there is not much benefit to breast feeding in the developed world, where formula can be afforded and prepared with clean water. However, what we don't know is the long term impact of formula feeding. Epidemiological studies show an apparent higher incidence of a number of diseases, including asthma and both types of diabetes, in those fed formula as infants, but the molecular and cellular mechanisms that might explain this are currently lacking.
Q: What does "Living the Promise" mean to you?
This is a great place to flourish. Even though UCR is now 4 times the size in terms of student body, compared with when I came here, it is still a place where each person matters and can make a difference. It is a university that has world class research and passionate teachers, and challenges you to be both.
Q: What is it about UCR that makes this a great place to do research, compared with other institutions?
For me specifically, it was coming to the Division of Biomedical Sciences rather than joining a traditional disciplinary department at another medical school. The Division is interdisciplinary and this encourages interdisciplinary thought, as well as actual collaborations, all to the benefit of excellence in research.
Q: In your spare time, what are you reading?
"Cutting for Stone" by Abraham Verghese, "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini
Q: Do you have a personal hero?
Q: If you had unlimited resources and no constraints, what would you do to further your research?
I would spend more time on research and hire more people, and less time on trying to keep the program going. We could therefore move forward more quickly. While there are positive aspects to grant writing that include focusing and planning, there is so little money available at the moment that you have to submit more and more grants to stay funded. If you don't stay funded, you lose great people and then have to try to find and train replacements when funding comes in. It is inefficient and wasteful.
Q: How do your students inspire you?
By their passion and ideas.
—Ameae Walker
Read 2011 Issue


text:
Salesify is entering a new era. We are looking toward the future with new ideas and new goals. In parallel with that, we are updating our corporate identity and this new website is a product of that progress. Building off of the modernized Salesify logo, this website was composed over several weeks with great foresight and planning.
The revamped logo still retains a similar look to its predecessor, but with a more telling theme. The original emblematic dots of the logo have been reshuffled to form the more accurately defined arrow pointing upwards. The concept behind this update is to keep the existing force of Salesify's longtime design, yet still subtly change the overall style just enough to show the company's continuous upward growth. Our lead generation offerings enable companies to shorten their sales' cycles and increase their sales funnels, which is celebrated by the arrow's direction. Along with the logo changes, the website has been completely redesigned to reflect these changes, in a less subtle way.
The depth and breadth and use of the big data that powers our wrap-around services and lead generation products is where our new website was born. With the launch of TechLeads Online two years ago, Salesify has jumped from being just a Services company to a Product and Solutions player. With this new site, the company hopes to evoke a cleaner, simpler look-and-feel, while simultaneously exemplifying the modern high-tech company. The success of Salesify is, in part, rooted in the sheer simplicity and accessibility of its customer-friendly campaigns, and we hope this new website highlights that.
Salesify is headed for new territory, and with these seemingly understated changes, we are kicking off the myriad of transformative advances we have planned for our future. Our essence remains the same, but our outlook is much more promising.
So come with us as we enter into the new age of Salesify.


text:
We offer complete upholstery cleaning service that delivers the results you want at the speed that you need. Extreme Carpet Care uses less water than other processes, minimizing drying time and reducing the chance of mold, mildew, and bacteria growth. Millions of tiny effervescent bubbles burst dirt and stains from your upholstery fabrics, lifting them to the surface where they are thoroughly extracted. Extreme Carpet Care's safe, non-toxic solutions actually help your fabrics stay as clean as when they were new. Only Extreme Carpet Care offers this carbonating-action cleaning process that will have your upholstery sparkling clean, dry, and ready for guests in as little as two hours…NOT one to two days.
In addition to residential upholstery cleaning, Extreme Carpet Care also cleans commercial upholstery, removing stains and refreshing dingy upholstered furniture in offices, waiting rooms, and more. Our professional cleaning will not only improve the look and feel of your office or commercial space, but will help extend the life of your costly investment.
After our services, protect your beautifully cleaned upholstery with Extreme Carpet Care's upholstery protector. Our fabric protection fortifies your furniture's ability to stand up to life's unexpected messes and is safe for most residential and commercial upholstery, children and pets, and leaves no dirt-attracting residue. It's also great for auto and RV interiors, as well as for boat interiors. This "invisible shield" is a small investment that will add great value in the long run. Ask about this recommended service today!
We pride ourselves on providing efficient service while being friendly!
There are many "cleaning specialist" in the area, but are they certified, licensed and insured.
24/7 Emergency Repair Service available.
We are waiting to hear from you! We can schedule a service today and get your carpets looking their best again.
We are happy to work with you to correct any situation that may arise, thus guaranteeing your satisfaction.


text:
Purpose: To investigate the relationship between race performance and lean mass (LM) variables, as well as to examine sex differences in body composition in elite-standard cross-country skiers.
Methods: Thirty-four elite cross-country skiers (18 men and 16 women) underwent a dual-emission x-ray absorptiometry body composition test to determine LM, fat mass, and bone mineral content. For both sexes, performance data were collected from a sprint prologue and a distance race.
Results: The absolute expression of LM variables [whole body (LMWB), upper body (LMUB), and lower body (LMLB)] was significantly correlated with finishing time in the sprint prologue independent of sex. Distance-race performance was significantly related to LMWB, LMUB, and LMLB in women; however, no correlation was found in men. Men had a significantly higher LM and lower fat mass, independent of expression (absolute or relative), for the whole body, arms, trunk, and legs, except for the absolute fat mass in the trunk.
Conclusions: The absolute expressions of LMWB, LMUB, and LMLB were significant predictors of sprint-prologue performance in both sexes, as well as of distance-race performance in women only. Compared with women, male skiers have a higher LM in the body segments that are major contributors to propelling forces. These results suggest that muscle mass in the lower and upper body is equally important for race performance; thus, more focus of elite skiers' training should be directed to increasing whole-body muscle mass to improve their competitive performance capability.
Introduction Researchers have, for decades, contributed to an increased collective understanding of the physiological demands in cross-country skiing; however, almost all of these studies have used either non-elite subjects and/or performances that emulate cross-country skiing. To establish the physiological demands of cross-country skiing, it is important to relate the investigated physiological variables to the competitive performance of elite skiers. The overall aim of this doctoral thesis was, therefore, to investigate the external validity of physiological test variables to determine the physiological demands in competitive elite cross-country skiing.
Methods The subjects in Study I – IV were elite male (I – III) and female (III – IV) cross-country skiers. In all studies, the relationship between test variables (general and ski-specific) and competitive performances (i.e. the results from competitions or the overall ski-ranking points of the International Ski Federation (FIS) for sprint (FISsprint) and distance (FISdist) races) were analysed. Test variables reflecting the subject's general strength, upper-body and whole-body oxygen uptake, oxygen uptake and work intensity at the lactate threshold, mean upper-body power, lean mass, and maximal double-poling speed were investigated.
Results The ability to maintain a high work rate without accumulating lactate is an indicator of distance performance, independent of sex (I, IV). Independent of sex, high oxygen uptake in whole-body and upper-body exercise was important for both sprint (II, IV) and distance (I, IV) performance. The maximal double-poling speed and 60-s double-poling mean power output were indicators of sprint (IV) and distance performance (I), respectively. Lean mass was correlated with distance performance for women (III), whereas correlations were found between lean mass and sprint performance among both male and female skiers (III). Moreover, no correlations between distance performance and test variables were derived from tests of knee-extension peak torque, vertical jumps, or double poling on a ski-ergometer with 20-s and 360-s durations (I), whereas gross efficiency while treadmill roller skiing showed no correlation with either distance or sprint performance in cross-country skiing (IV).
Conclusion The results in this thesis show that, depending on discipline and sex, maximal and peak oxygen uptake, work intensity at the lactate threshold, lean mass, double-poling mean power output, and double-poling maximal speed are all externally valid physiological test variables for evaluation of performance capability among elite cross-country skiers; however, to optimally indicate performance capability different test-variable expressions should be used; in general, the absolute expression appears to be a better indicator of competitive sprint performance whereas the influence of body mass should be considered when evaluating competitive distance performance capability of elite cross-country skiers.


text:
High School Chemistry teacher sparked scientific curiosity
Arvin Yu, a Graduate Student in Coatings and Polymeric Materials at North Dakota State University, assists in the Center for Sustainable Materials Science (CSMS) research in Dr. Dean Webster's CSMS research group. Arvin's contribution to CSMS research is in developing bio-based resins from soybean oil and sugar for structural composite applications. Arvin wants to work in the industry and put into practice the knowledge and skills he learned through his work with the CSMS research group.
Arvin has been scientifically inclined since he was young. His high school chemistry teacher sparked scientific curiosity in him at an early age, and she influenced him to take an active interest in chemistry. Fun fact about Arvin: he finds it fun and enjoyable to try out different cuisines when he goes out to eat.
You can watch Arvin, alongside graduate student Adlina Paramarta and Postdoc Ivan Hevus, in the following video as they talk about some of their work with the CSMS research group: https://vimeo.com/181097192
You can also see Arvin featured in the following local KVLY news segment, with fellow graduate student Kyle Kingsley, about their experiments at the NDSU graduate-run event Avenues of Scientific Discovery https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LveE1Sr0O5c&feature=youtu.be
You can view more videos about CSMS research at the CSMS website's Multimedia page at http://csms-ndsu.org/multimedia/.


text:
The following is a positive, sincere account of how I have spent money on MMOs in the past and what I personally find valuable in Guild Wars 2. My intent is to help ArenaNet (makers of Guild Wars 2) make money from gem sales and expansions, by telling them explicitly what I WILL purchase (not "might", but actually WILL spend money on). Why do this? I like Guild Wars 2 and wish to see its continued success! 🙂
Personal Background (Demographics):
– Male, 37, Married, Kids, Canada.
– Started playing MMOs in 2002 with Everquest.
– Most hours played in: Star Wars Galaxies, Planetside 2, World of Warcraft, Everquest 1/2.
– Most subscriptions paid for: Star Wars Galaxies (multiple accounts)
– Most additional money spent on a subscription based game: World of Warcraft (character transfer fees, mounts).
– Most money spent in a "free2play" game: Planetside 2 (weapons > cosmetics > xp boost).
– Total different MMOs I have spent money on or in: 10+
– MMOs I have played in the last year: Guild Wars 2, Planetside 2, SWGEmu.
– MMOs I have played in the 3 months: Guild Wars 2, Planetside 2.
– MMOs I currently play: Guild Wars 2.
– MMOs I will play in 2016: Guild Wars 2.
– Game consoles owned: Wii
– Do I play or purchase other PC or console games: Pretty much never.
– Last PC or console game purchase: Torchlight II, 2013.
Approx Spent Since 2002:
– Games: $500
– Expansion Packs: $300
– Subscriptions: $1,000 – $1,500
– Optional Services (mostly character tranfer fees): $150
How I Allocated Currency I Purchased:
– Mounts: $50 (EQ2 / WoW)
– Game Play Variety (weapons, classes, houses, etc): $250
– Utility (storage, toolbars, etc): $100
– Cosmetics (camo, skins, etc): $50
Please don't add all that up… I don't want to know. No doubt it's less than many spend on beer in a year though! lol…
Moving on to Guild Wars 2 specific information now.
Purchased GW2: December 2012
Year most played: 2015
Year least played: Honestly, I barely ever played before 2015.
Reasons for original purchase:
1. Open, "living world" design with down leveling to keep all content relevant.
2. Uncompetitive, co-op oriented PvE (harvesting nodes, loot distribution, no "mob tagging", etc)
3. Class and combat mechanics tied to weapon choices and how that played into making underwater combat unique and interesting.
4. Fun combat style, with no-tab targeting and active dodging.
5. No monthly subscription.
Why didn't I play much before 2015:
1. I was playing other games, mostly Planetside 2, and working on other hobbies in my available time.
2. I found the character personalities in Guild Wars 2 very hard to relate to and in some ways, actively annoying. The breathy Sylvari male, my first character past 20 (since deleted), was especially obnoxious. On the flip side, my main character whom I adore is a female Sylvari. Kudos to you, Jennifer Hale! 🙂
3. It was difficult to find a class that I enjoyed playing. I tried all but the ones I knew I wouldn't like (Thief and Necromancer) to level 25 or so and the only one I really fun with was Guardian.
4. The mounts/vehicles, housing, and clothing variety that I was used to having in other games weren't available in GW2, making GW2 feel less personal. This is where Everquest 2 shines – it has copious amounts of EVERYTHING! lol…
5. The GW2 crafting system isn't as fun as Star Wars Galaxies system, but I like it. However, it ultimately feels a little pointless, given how everything you can make is already available for purchase on the Trading Post for the lowest possible price. This is, of course, excluding the highest level, most grindy-to-make items that I would never bother making anyway. I guess I will be forever spoiled by the SWG Beast Master crafting system… 🙂
6. My one friend who played kept changing servers, so I ended up deleting everything and starting over 3 times. The last time, I said no more! He hasn't played in about a year, go figure… This undoubtedly had a negative impact on my level of emotional investment in the game, especially given I didn't have any investment in the franchise as a whole (I never played the original Guild Wars or explored its lore).
Why I decided to play GW2 more in 2015:
1. "It's a beautiful game and I really like a lot about it!", so I have said a number of times over the years. It was time to give it a fair shake.
2. Despite spending thousands of hours in Planetside 2, a 100% PvP game, and many hours playing Counter-Strike "back in the day", I'm not really into the whole Internet competition thing. I just like shooting doods and blowing stuff up (in a gore-free, laser-tag/computer game sense – gore/horror is not my cup of tea). What I actually REALLY enjoy is PvE exploration and that's what I have spent the vast majority of my time doing in SWG, WoW, EQ/EQ2, GW2, Aion, SWTOR… and MANY other games. Guild Wars 2 has an amazing open world to explore.
3. I'm not really into the whole "online community" thing. Back before I got married and had a whack of kids of my own, I didn't so much mind sitting down at the computer and interacting with other people and their kids. Now, however, when I sit down to play an online game the last thing I want to do is entertain or interact with children (or adults who act like children). I've always hated VOIP, with the exception of a handful of people I raided with in WoW. Why? Because I really don't give a shit about how high or drunk you are pretending to be… People on the Internet, I can live without them.
And here's the thing, with the original design of Guild Wars 2, a person could log in and have hours of fun playing with other people without ever having to deal with organizing groups, drama, demands to use voip, etc. Nope, instead of all that kruft, you could just log in, "do stuff", and find that other folks are around doing that stuff too. As a person who just wants to sit down for a while, when time permits, and disolve into another world for a while, the original areas of Guild Wars 2 are a dream come true!
Purchases I have made in Guild Wars 2:
Gems: 800 Gems (USD, 1 in game transaction)
– Special Edition, when on sale
– 1 Bank Tab
– Missing Living Story, Season 2 chapters, when on sale (topped with Gold > Gems).
Why I have not purchased more in Guild Wars 2:
1. Game Cards are no longer available in Canada. BestBuy and EBGames used to carry them.
2. The Canadian Dollar is far too low justify purchasing ANYTHING in USD these days. For majority of the time I have been playing MMOs, the exchange rate has been alright, +/-10% (http://www.tradingeconomics.com/canada/currency), however, we're now looking at roughly 35% surcharge on any purchase simply due to the entirely arbitrary exchange rate. I'm sorry, but that's way beyond reasonable.
The bottom line here is that unless I can buy gems in Canadian Dollars, 800 gems for $10, I won't be buying any gems, at all. Bring the gem cards back to Canadian store shelves, because earning $10 CND is a heck of a lot better than earning $0 USD.
3. The vast majority of the content in Heart of Thorns is stuff I don't care about and will never use, thus it is simply not worth the $70 CAD price tag. Allow me to list everything in HoT that I won't use:
– The 4 new zones, because they REQUIRE organized play at specific times. This is totally the opposite of why I play GW2.
– Personal Story. Still have yet to finish the original one on my main character… Just not my thing, I guess.
– Anything PvP related. I don't PvP at all.
– Anything dungeon or raid related. I don't do dungeons or raids at all.
– The entire guild system. Thankfully I was able to get 50 slots of storage in my personal guild bank before that was made impossible… Other than that, I have no use for guilds at all.
– Most of the Mastery system.
As you can see, the vast majority of the content added in HoT is stuff I am not interested in. Honestly, I doubt I would even get around to using the new class or most of the new class specs. Had HoT included 4 new maps like Gendarran Fields or Sparkfly Fen then that alone would have been enough to convince me to purchase HoT, as I would get many hours of use out the money spent.
And finally… here are the things I WOULD buy with Gems, if I can buy gems at 800/$10CAD:
Existing One Time:
– 4+ Bank Tabs.
– 1 Additional Crafting License.
– 1 Storage Expander
– 2+ Character Slots
– Musical Harp
– Magic Carpet
– Riding Broom
– Basic Harvesting Node Pack
– Basic Lumber Node Pack
– Basic Ore Node Pack
– Basic Cloth Rack
Occasional Purchases:
– Sale bundles! (I'm a sucker for a good bundle!)
– Banker Golem
– Merchant Express
– Heroic Booster
– Trading Post Express
Things I would buy if they existed!:
– Mounts! They're fun and that's all there really is to it…
– Bag slots account wide…
– HoT as piecemeal features
– New open original GW2 style world maps, 1000 Gems each.
– Additional "personal stories", 800 Gems each. I would actually buy these, even though I likely would never get to finishing them… /shrug
– Personal housing or "more stuff" for the home instance.
– Instanced shops for each crafting profession, with upgrades/features/systems that add game play variety, but not power. 800 Gems each (account wide).
– Mini-games, such as fishing, that reward existing materials in different ways. 250 Gems each.
And finally…
Things I WILL NEVER, EVER PURCHASE:
– Lock boxes, lock box keys, "random dyes", or any other sort gambling.
– Character transfers. You know what, server population management is just not MY problem. If a server is dead, YOU fix it! (Latent WoW related anger talking here lol… Arenanet's mega servers are great).
Alrighty, I think I have laid that out as plainly as possible. I didn't bother going into details about why I am not interested in things like raiding, pvp, and guilds, because ultimately the WHY doesn't matter. All that matters is that I am not going to spend money on those things.
I will say this though, I played Planetside 2 because it was a Sci-fi FPS game with good gun mechanics and awesome vehicle play, not because it was a PvP game – I would likely still be playing it had it been a PvE game! Sure, I healed more than five hundred 5 man dungeons in WoW during Wrath of the Lich King alone, but… I'm just not really interested in doing that kind of content anymore. I've been an integral part of several nice online communities over the years and by no means am I actively hostile or totally indifferent towards other players in games these days, but the truth is that I just don't have it in me to be committed to anything other than my family and "real life friends". I play games to unwind, to have fun! Ultimately, my likes and motivations are what they are, just as yours are what they are. To each his own! 🙂


text:
1. The Warm-Up… this is still a tricky one for me. Speedy isn't hot, at all. In fact he's a pretty mellow fellow who thinks he's tired after twice around the arena. He doesn't need to be lunged. He doesn't need the edge taken off. He doesn't worry about the hoopla and is in fact, quite content to sit and watch the world pass by. In short, he thinks shows are about eating the goodies he gets when he's finished.
So what's the trouble? The trouble is that I never know how long I really need to warm-up. For us, warm-up is about warming up our bodies. We both need a few minutes to stretch and get our blood flowing. I also need a few minutes to remind Speedy G about rounding up a little (we're still at the little stage) and to accept the bit with some obedience. And…that's…it.
So how long does that take? I am finding that all I need is about 20 minutes. Too much? Not enough? I don't know - that's the trouble!
2. The Judge… I like the judge. I like to be judged. I want to develop a relationship with the judge. This strikes me as quite funny since at my first show I couldn't even see the judge. I simply saluted into a void. It wasn't until about the fourth show that I realized the judge waved back!
After a few shows, my perception expanded beyond the letter markers to include the judge's station. I am still completely unaware of anything outside of the actual dressage court, including people. I genuinely can't even see them. I am pretty sure it was Coach who instructed me to ride forward at the end of the test to address the judge in some way. I had been flippin' a u-turn and high-tailin' it outta there. Address the judge? Why would I even want to do that? I was already afraid of getting kicked out for being an idiot!
But I did it. As I enter the arena, I now stop at the judge's station. I wait quietly until she looks at me and I politely give her my rider number and clarify which test I am riding. Each time, the judge acts pleasantly surprised that I have done so. Am I onto something? Is this an unusual thing for riders to do? At the end of my test, as I continue forward, I also thank the judge for her time and usually receive a very warm, "you're welcome!"
I like the judge. Without judges, how would we ever be able to test what we've learned? Thank you judges!


text:
Platinum/Gold Spread
On Friday the July-June platinum/gold spread closed above the declining 50-day Moving Average for the first time since July. The spread also surpassed a prior month's high for the first time since early June, which was when the 2014 high was established. This signaled a bullish trend change.
The trend change triggered a hypothetical trade for the blog on the long side of the spread. The trade would have been entered by buying two 50/oz. July platinum futures contracts at approximately $1,160.60 and simultaneously selling one 100 oz. June gold contract at approximately $1,165.40. Therefore, the long position was entered at -$4.80 (premium gold). Initially, the spread will be liquidated on a two-consecutive day close below -$52.80 (premium gold).
We will now be watching the spread to see what sort of volatility it experiences and what sort of chart patterns emerge. If we are lucky, the spread may lend itself to some setups for adding to the position as the new bull market unfolds.


text:
This week we looked at why we can believe that Jesus really did rise from the dead.
There are two main possible reasons for not believing in Jesus:
The first explanation could be that Jesus never really died. I find this hard to believe for a couple of reasons. Jesus was killed by the Romans. The Romans were the best killers in the business, they had invented crucifixion where a man is nailed to a wooden cross because it was the most agonising and painful way to die. Secondly, because Jesus died quicker on the cross than people usually did they put a spear through his side (John 19:34). The fact that blood and water poured out only happens when a man is dead.
Secondly, maybe the disciples stole Jesus' body and then told people that they had seen him alive? Maybe the disciples made the whole thing up?
I find this hard to believe for the following reasons. Firstly the Bible tells us that Jesus appeared firstly to the women Mary, Mary and Joanna, then to Peter, to the rest of the disciples and to more than 500 people at one time (1 Corinthians 15:5-6). This takes out the explanations that the disciples dreamt that Jesus rose from the dead, or that they had a hallucination. Dreams and hallucinations can only happen to one person at once. Paul even says in that verse, 'look you can go and ask these people yourselves, most of them are still alive,' when Paul was writing this. Would Paul have said this if he didn't really believe it was true?
Secondly, when Jesus was arrested the disciples ran away and hid. They were scared for their lives. What would it take for these same 11 people to 10 days later be speaking in front of 3000 people telling everyone that Jesus was alive? They knew that Jesus had died. Something incredible must have happened for them to be changed from cowardly men hiding in a room in fear for their lives to bold, joyful men declaring that Jesus was alive. How could that have happened if Jesus wasn't alive?
Thirdly, all the disciples gave the rest of their lives to travelling and telling other about Jesus rising from the dead. The fact that many people in those early days believed that Jesus had risen means that it can't have been made up. It would have been easy to disprove, but it wasn't. Most of the disciples ended up dying for what they believed to be true. If the disciples had made up the story, then surely they wouldn't have been willing to die for it? They would have known whether it was true or false.
So maybe it is true that Jesus rose from the dead, but if it is, why is it so important? Three things that it means for us are:
There is a God. There is no other explanation for how Jesus can rise from the dead. The only answer is that God raised Jesus from the dead.
Secondly, it means that Jesus was God. We have heard about the claims that Jesus made. He said that he was God and he showed it by the miracles that he did. But if he had just died, how would we know if he was truly God? Jesus rising from the dead proves that he was God.
Thirdly, if Jesus has risen from the dead then there is a way that we can be made right with God. It means that through the cross Jesus has taken the punishment for our sin. He has restored our relationship with God if we believe in him. If Jesus hadn't risen again, his death would have been no more significant than anyone else's death but the fact that he rose again shows that he is God, and that he has forgiven our sin. (1 Corinthians 15:14)
If it is true that Jesus rose from the dead the only thing we can logically do is to ask Jesus to forgive our sin and live a life that is pleasing to him.
by Paul Zealey
The Explore overview >


text:
Join Our eClub
Free Round of Golf
If you register with us, you will receive a FREE* green fee for your Birthday! Your free round will be valid up to one week prior to and one week after your birthday. Off-season birthdays will be assigned the date 6 months after (i.e. Jan 5 would be assigned to July 5).
Both proof of birthday and the invitation we emailed you are required to receive your FREE* Round of Golf at the time of use. There are no exceptions.
*This offer does not include surcharge or cart.
All information is held in confidence and will only be used to provide you with this offer and other Crestbrook Park related offers.


text: Recognizing the increasing role mobile phones play in our busy lives, FASA is happy announce the development of its own mobile app, as part of a plan to expand and enhance communications with members and administrators. FASA has partnered with Crescerance, an app development company from Georgia that helps schools and districts across the country go mobile. Be sure to download the app today and tell us what you think. All you have to do is go to the Apple App Store (on your iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad) or to the Android Google Play (on your Android device) and search for "FASA" or "Florida Association of School Administrators" to find and download our app and stay connected to what is going on at FASA.


text:
Watoto Children's Choir 55 is back from Asia. The choir, which left in February 2012, returned home amid jubilation and ululation. This was Watoto's second full Asian tour.
The choir performed in Hong Kong, Indonesia, Singapore, Taiwan and Japan.
According to Brian Katongole, the choir's team leader, "The highlight of the tour was sharing the gospel in Indonesia. I love to see lives transformed by the love "of Jesus," he said.
"We also had the opportunity to minister to people in the Tsunami-hit area in Japan," he added.
The children were very happy to be home and for Harriet 14, Isaac 9 and Eric 11, the highlight of the tour was getting to visit state of the art parks like Ocean park in Hong Kong and Disney land where they learnt to swim, tasted all kinds of Asian dishes and played to their hearts' content.
The choir also registered a high response to sponsorship and feels it has been an honour for them to serve in Asia.
Welcome back choir 55.


text:
Our store is closed due to COVID-19 but we're still here for you.
We're shipping orders on a limited schedule.
Please allow for shipping delays. Read more...
This large-diaphragm condenser microphone has been designed on the basis of feedback from sound engineers who have used the C12, C12 A, C414 EB and C414 B-ULS microphones in recording studios around the world for years. Using hand-selected state-of-the-art, reliable components as well as advanced manufacturing processes, the C3000 meets the highest professional standards and will withstand severe handling in the recording studio for many years.
The electronic circuitry of the microphone has been redesigned to achieve maximum dynamic range and a flat frequency response. Low self-noise and high headroom add up to a dynamic range of 136 dB (A-weighted).
The transducer element uses advanced backplate technology and a diaphragm that is gold-sputtered on one side only to prevent local shorting to the back electrode even at extremely high sound pressure levels.
The all-metal body ensures efficient rejection of RF interference so you can use the microphone near transmitter stations, along with wireless microphones or other communications equipment.


text:
Welcome, Sign In
Very stylish shoe and runs true to size.
"Delivery was earlier than expected, and the shoe was beautiful!"
2011 Prom Dresses
Welcome to Prom Season 2011! We have over 1000 styles and colors to choose from. You can click here to browse through our entire selection of prom dresses. Browse All Prom Dresses
We have prom dresses from top designers like Alyce, BG Haute, Terani, Scala and more. If you would like to browse by designer, select one of the designers below:
Buy Prom Shoes
Free Shipping


text:
Irreducible Complexity Has Been… Reduced. To Nothing.
One of my favourite YouTubers, QualiaSoup, has put out another great educational video, addressing the "Intelligent Design" (=Creationist) argument of so-called "irreducible complexity", which claims that evolution cannot be true since they are things that are so complex that they could not have come about by a gradual process like evolution by natural selection. The video dismantles the argument beautifully in very simple terms; it's easy to understand and, more importantly, it'll empower you to counter the argument yourself next time you come across it in a discussion.
One more thing: If you like QualiaSoup's vids, be sure to check out his brother, too. He goes by the username TheraminTrees and produces videos of a very similar style which are just as brilliant.


text:
Quality Disclosure and Certification: Theory and Practice
David Dranove, Ginger Zhe Jin
NBER Working Paper No. 15644
---- Acknowledgments ----
Accepted at the Journal of Economic Literature. The views expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Bureau of Economic Research.
National Bureau of Economic Research, 1050 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02138; 617-868-3900; email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Contact Us
Contact Us


text:
This pattern now comes with a Pictorial Tutorial with lots of diagrams and short text steps.
There is a link to the original Photo Tutorial on the title page of the pattern.
I went a bit crazy with the instruction photos and had to split out the Photo Tutorial for the Cuffed Play Shorts. So there are two parts to the Photo Tutorial. Part 1 has the link to Part 2.
I took the usual pull-ons and made a flat front so you don't get that gathered look under short shirts or tops.
There are lots of different lengths to choose from. No need to guess how long to make them.
The curved patch pockets on the short-longs look very care free and the knee shorts have pockets and flaps.
You need about 1/4m for the long pants but the shorts take a lot less. You can use up your left over fashion fabrics.
The long pants come in three lengths because I made them quite short to start with. I added 1/2" to get a good length but then I thought I may as well include the next longer length that covers the shoe laces.
I will definitely need that longer look when I make bell bottoms in the next trouser pattern.
This is what the Mid-Longs and Long-Longs look like.
There is something quite odd about the poor doll's bottom but I thought the side view didn't look too bad.
Now I have enough designs to concentrate on putting together an outfit. Up until now I have just been willy nilly making single items with what ever fabrics I liked the look of. It makes it hard to find clothes that look good together. I will definitely be cruising through Pinterest for ideas. I have collected quite a few over the months. I just need to look at them and learn what looks good colourwise and stylewise.
These shorts and shirt were made to go together.
Remember to follow me on Pinterest and Craftsy. I also sell on Etsy and I would love it if you liked my Facebook Page.
My patterns are great. I am just getting started trying to build a basic range of designs. Let me know if there is something in particular you would like me to design. I have had lovely customer reviews. My aim is to provide a quality product at a very affordable price.
Enjoy this latest pattern 1812 Flat Front Pull-ons from the Snugfit Range
Happy Sewing,


text:
All exhaust systems come with removable baffles, so the customer can tune the sound just right. For those who want a deep thumper sound, leave the baffling in. For those who want a raw, loud bark, remove the baffling. Baffling removes easily with 1 allen head bolt.
The exhaust comes with everything you need to install it. We include optional clamp on mounts for the stock heat shield if you choose to retain it.
It is recommended that when purchasing this exhaust you also purchase a full jet kit so the bike can be tuned properly with the new exhaust. The jet kit is available through the Speed Shop, just click here
If you need an exhaust gasket, we also carry them, link here to exhaust gasket:
All exhausts are strictly for closed course competition/race use only. Tempering / removing or altering EPA/ARB equipment is illegal for any vehicle that is used on public highways.


text:
Watch this clip. Henry (Michael Keaton) is trying to convince his wife that he'll be there when the chips are down. But every day, he makes little choices that favor his job over his family.
AnyClipPlayer.load(["#AnyClipPlayer", {clipid:'WQEV2Yutmh44m',publisherid:'7042′,domid:'flashContent',autoplay:'true'}]);
On the road someone asked if he could go along. "I'll go with you, wherever," he said. Jesus was curt: "Are you ready to rough it? We're not staying in the best inns, you know."
Jesus said to another, "Follow me." He said, "Certainly, but first excuse me for a couple of days, please. I have to make arrangements for my father's funeral." Jesus refused. "First things first. Your business is life, not death. And life is urgent: Announce God's kingdom!"
Then another said, "I'm ready to follow you, Master, but first excuse me while I get things straightened out at home." Jesus said, "No procrastination. No backward looks. You can't put God's kingdom off till tomorrow. Seize the day."
It occurred to me that our choice to follow Jesus is like Henry's choice. That's right … It's never one big choice . .. Its a million little choices, every day, that add up to the same thing.
Jesus, or everything else? I read about the saints throughout the ages who suffered torture and death because they proclaimed Jesus. Would I be tortured or die for Jesus? I might be wrong, but I think I would. I can't imagine a scenario where I'd be offered the choice to renounce Christ or die – and failing to choose Christ.
But that's not likely to be a situation I face. However, I face a million little choices every day too. Choices about proclaiming Christ when it's uncomfortable (in the office, perhaps). Choices to stand out from the crowd and honor God through behavior that might be unpopular. If I'm truly honest with myself, I almost NEVER choose Jesus in those circumstances – I'm too much of a chicken. Too afraid that people won't like me – hence the name of this blog.
And that's a problem. My prayer for today: That God will guide my heart in the little decisions – because when they're about Jesus, they're just as important as the big ones.
[Thanks to anyclip.com for the clip. And on a side note, "The Paper" is a favorite movie of mine … action-packed from start to finish, and Michael Keaton is hilarious. And for any geeks out there, this clip embeds perfectly into the blogger platform, but does NOTHING in wordpress. Here's the embed code; any ideas?

   ]


text:
Kontaktieren Sie uns unverbindlich für Details / Informationen / Kooperationen / Möglichkeiten wie auch Sonderlösungen
im In- & Ausland zum Thema Flug zur Stratosphäre - unter Tel +43 1 214 42 92 oder firstname.lastname@example.com.
Take advantage of the new opportunities in space. Space Advertising is the latest way of advertising.
|News | Weltraum | Werbung | Space Advertising | Flug | All >>
Take advantage of the new opportunities in space. Space Advertising is the latest way of advertising. Put your product looks really exceptional in scene and inspire not only consumers but also the media may direct you to you. Do not see your product from an incredible height with our planet in the background - an entirely new perspective. Etc. Especially in combination with social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter provides space advertising is a particularly efficient way to advertise. You benefit from the unlimited reach of the Internet because it is possible your pictures and videos to "share " and to impress as millions of other people.
Zuletzt geändert am: 15-01-2014 um 21:06Zurück


text:
Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson appeared on Tuesday's episode of Conan and talked about varied subjects, together with the super bowl li hd stream Bowl LI matchup between New England and Atlanta. Tremendous Bowl XXXVIII: Patriots 32, Panthers 29. Plenty of choices right here, but I am going with David Givens, who had 5 catches for 69 yards and a touchdown, together with 18- and 25-yard receptions in the drive that put the Patriots up, 29-22, with somewhat greater than six minutes remaining.
When the Falcons do go into that Cowl three shell, Brady may have plenty of Cowl three beaters to pick Atlanta apart, together with Y-Stick, which I wrote about at length in previewing the Patriots-Seahawks Tremendous Bowl a few years in the past I figured in that sport the Patriots would goal Seahawks slot cornerback Jeremy Lane , and while Lane had an interception before leaving with several critical accidents, the Patriots abused Byron Maxwell within the slot and alternative Tharold Simon on the surface.
After taking a yr off from Roman numerals to commemorate historic Tremendous Bowl 50, the NFL will return to its normal designation for Tremendous Bowl LI. Apparently sufficient, the final time Houston was the Tremendous Bowl host, it featured a showdown between the New England Patriots and Carolina Panthers, two groups likely to be within the combine for an look in Tremendous Bowl 2017.
However, a slight majority (together with this author) expects Super Bowl LI to finish with quite probably the most awkward trophy-presentation ceremony in the historical past of sports—NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell handing the Lombardi to Brady and Patriots owner Robert Kraft.


text:
Recipient of the 2015 Simon Benson Award for Alumni Achievement
Greg Ness, MBA '87, leads Standard Insurance Company ("The Standard"), an Oregon-based corporation founded in 1906. Ness joined The Standard in 1979, built a successful career in the financial services industry, and since 2011 has served as chairman, president and chief executive officer.
Even after three decades in corporate management, Ness says his most valuable professional move was returning to school and earning an MBA at PSU. In the community, Ness serves on the boards of the Armory Theater Fund, Greater Portland, Inc., Grow Oregon, OHSU Foundation and the Oregon Business Council.
Greg and Terry, his wife, have been generous supporters of PSU's School of Business Administration for more than 20 years.


text:
Hospitals and nursing homes in New York City's vulnerable hurricane zones began evacuations Friday morning, lining up ambulances to take away patients one by one before Hurricane Irene hits the city late Saturday into Sunday.
New Jersey residents are also fleeing southern communities amid mandatory evacuation orders there affecting nearly 1 million residents and visitors.
Mayor Bloomberg ordered Friday that all New Yorkers living in the city's primary zone must be out by 5 p.m. Saturday.
Some 250,000 people live in the zone, which includes Battery Park City, Coney Island, Manhattan Beach, Far Rockaway and Midland Beach and South Beach in Staten Island. See the areas in orange on this map.
President Barack Obama urged those in the path of the storm to heed instructions from state and local officials, especially if directed to evacuate. "Don't wait, don't delay," he said Friday.
Staten Island Hospital began evacuating patients Thursday night, with newborns being transported to Cohen Children's Hospital in Lake Success. The other hospitals are New York University, Coney Island Hospital and VA Medical center on 23rd Street in Manhattan.
"They have to move out," Bloomberg said Thursday when he issued the mandatory order.
Hospitals and nursing homes in the primary zone may not have to evacuate if they have backup power or other reasons that may excuse them; those cases must be approved by state and city health officials.
For the latest on the storm and evacuation orders in the tri-state region, go here.
At Coney Island Hospital, officials said operations will wind down by Friday evening. Several dozen ambulances were working throughout the day to transport 241 patients to several other area hospitals.
EMT Jose Guerrero said each ambulance could only take one person, so the job was expected to take hours.
"We're only allowed to transport one patient at a time," he said.
Maintenance workers were planning to stay in the hospital over the weekend to shore up major equipment and tend to possible damage.
Irene has weakened slightly to a Category 2 storm as it approaches the East Coast, where a hurricane warning has been extended to New Jersey.
Nearly all of the New Jersey shore and the entire southern half of the state are under a hurricane warning, and mandatory evacuations are under way in Cape May County, coastal Atlantic County and Long Beach Island.
Officials have called for voluntary evacuations in other areas along the coast. State Police say evacuations are going smoothly so far.
It wasn't guaranteed that the calm would last. "A lot of people — I don't want to say are procrastinating — they're waiting," said state police Capt. Frank Davis.
Davis was expecting more serious tie-ups Saturday as more people hit the road in what promised to be the state's biggest ever weather-related exodus.
Evacuees gathered at the Atlantic City bus terminal Friday morning.
"This is my first hurricane, and I'm very concerned," said Danielle Hebroni, 22, of Shoham, Israel. "We're glad to be getting out of here."
Arthur Peteriet, a waiter at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, was waiting for a bus to New York City where he planned to stay with his sister.
"You can't fight nature," he said. "If it's gonna happen, it's gonna happen."
On Long Island, officials ordered a mandatory evacuation for Fire Island and asked for voluntary evacuations in barrier island communities.
Ellen Weinstein was preparing to evacuate her Fire Island home by ferry later in the morning.
"The scariest ride is the one back Monday morning and seeing what happened," she said.
Bay Shore's Southside Hospital is also being evacuated, with 250 patients to move inland.
For all your hurricane preparedness questions, go here. You can also make sure you're taking all the right steps with this preparedness checklist.
You can keep an eye on the forecast through our interactive radar, and stay with NBC New York on Twitter @NBCNewYork and Facebook/NBCNewYork. For breaking news alerts directly to your phone, text NYBreaking to 639710.


text:
Your Stress Can Trigger On-Leash Dog Aggression
You may not even be aware that your fear and stress could be your dog's first clue that something is wrong.
Your emotional state can actually cause on-leash dog aggression in your dog.
Judy was oblivious to it.
With a dog that has had limited opportunities to socialize, she just knew her dog's reaction to other dogs was scary.
Walking in the neighborhood, her Shepherd/Lab mix, Buddy, would become aggressive on leash.
Especially when they encountered any medium to large size dog. This caused him to bark violently and pull on an already taut leash.
It looked and sounded horrible!
Right now she was walking at night to avoid any possible confrontations.
She desperately wanted to fix her "Buddy" so she could enjoy her walks with him again.
What Do You Do to Ignite Your Dog's On-Leash Dog Aggression?
Listen. Your physical response to your emotional feelings (fear, anxiety and stress) can be a trigger to your dog.
As much as (or more) as seeing another dog on a walk.
What are your physical responses?
- Your white knuckle grip on the already tight leash for one.
- Sometimes it can be grabbing his collar for better momentary control.
Just knowing about your dog's on-leash dog aggression is anxiety-producing. Your physical responses begin communicating to your dog the second you step out of the house for a walk.
You've already set him up to react at the first opportunity.
Remember, he doesn't even have to see or hear other dogs. He senses where they are by reading their energy.
Control Your Emotional Responses – Control Your On-Leash Dog Aggression
I know, you're thinking exactly what Judy was thinking as we worked with Buddy: "What if I find it impossible to totally relax on a walk?
I'm just flat scared!" She was afraid she couldn't control her sudden intake of breath or pulling back on the tight leash.
If you cannot change your behavior, think about changing "what your behavior means to your dog."
Change your behavior's cue for fear to a cue for calm.
Changing Buddy from Being Reactive on Leash to Being Calm on Leash
I told Judy it may take some time it. But it is possible.
She needs to teach Buddy that when he feels her tighten the leash, that's his cue or signal to stop, turn around and make eye contact with her.
Steps to a Calm Dog on Leash Instead of an Aggressive Dog on Leash
First Judy had to identify and match the physical cues to her stress cues.
For her it was yanking back on the leash.
That's what happened when she felt a sudden increase in her anxiety.
She knew where dogs were behind fences on her walking route.
Judy would tense up on approach and yank back in anticipation as she attempted to ease Buddy by the dog. This was Buddy's cue to become aggressive on leash.
Here's how we changed Buddy's Leash Aggression
- We taught Buddy that leash-tightening was his cue to calmly look at Judy rather than prepare to become aggressive on leash.
- With Buddy in hand, a 6' leash and some high value food treats, Judy was ready to learn how to fix the problem.
- We let Buddy go to the end of the leash and when he was almost there, Judy stepped back, felt the leash go tight and then praised Buddy,
- "Yes!" Buddy turned around and saw her extended hand. She then treated him when he came back to her for the treat.
- Her next step was to increase the pressure of pulling the leash tight. Praise, "Yes!" and treat just like she'd been doing before.
- Soon Buddy began to feel the tightening of the leash pull, expect the praise "Yes!" and automatically turn in Judy's direction for the treat!
- The next step was to give Buddy a "Sit!" command followed by praise, "Yes!" and a treat.
- We also got Buddy to respond to Judy's hand grabbing his collar. With the same amount of pressure pulling on the collar as with the leash,
- Buddy soon began responding to her hand grab
If your dog is aggressive on leash towards dogs, practice around people first. Get to your goal of quick responses to a tightening leash.
Once your dog is responding :
- Seek out dogs on walks and practice at a successful distance first before attempting to get too close to dogs.
- Work at your dog's own comfortable pace and distance. Don't push him to fast to soon.
This /Dog Training Exercise has Other Benefits as Well
Besides teaching your dog to turn to you with slight pressure on leash or his collar, it will:
- Become easier to control your dog on leash when visitors arrive.
- If your dog gets out the front door and a helpful neighbor grabs his collar he will be more likely to give to the pressure.
- Any other place where your dog is handled using his leash or collar: vets office or groomer. He will give to the pressure easier.
Dog training is a process.
Some dogs take much more time than others.
Be patient with your dog and don't move too fast through any training process.
Work at your dog's own pace, not yours.
Together We Can Raise A Happy and Obedient Dog
You got your dog for a reason. You wanted to share your life with a happy and loving dog. But now, your dog has big problems and life is not happy.
I can help you get that happy, well behaved dog back no matter where you live. We'll do private lesson in your home OR we can do private video lessons where geography is no longer a roadblock.


text:
The Floyd Livestock & County Fair welcomes local non-profits with open arms. We work with non-profits to host games, have an informational booth, and/or raise funds however your organization feels is appropriate (with written permission from the Floyd Fair board). One of our goals is to assist non-profits raise awareness and funds with little to no charge to them. If your non-profit is interested in taking part or have questions, please contact the fair director at: firstname.lastname@example.com or 540-392-5496.
Volunteers Needed
Volunteers Needed – Let us know if you or your organization would like to volunteer for the day of the event. We welcome all who are interested in helping us to continue to build an event that Floyd can truly be proud of!
Email firstname.lastname@example.com to learn how you can help!


text:
Here's a good question from zxc with an even better answer, enjoy:
Hi! do i need to have a credit card in order to use my balance to buy things.I have verified my bank account(not creditcard) completely and PayPal still asked me to "Add a new debit or credit card" Is there any way that I could skip the "Add a new debit or credit card" part and continue to my payment using my paypal balance?Thanks!
Answer: The Add a new debit or credit card is there if you wont to add a card.eBay Top Rated Selleraquaruim-products-and-moreLook me up.
Tagged:Yahoo! Shopping