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"They call me the Seeker; I've been searchin', lo' and hi'..." - excerpt, The Who song.
About two years ago, I started wanting a van. I missed the freedom of Waldo, the Magic VW Bus; how, I could go camping, visiting, travelling with ease and economy. The VW vans had in the meantime become a rather expensive option, and being frugal in nature, not an option. After looking at lots of vans, I decided to go with something domestic, reasonable fuel economy and serviceability, and commonplace. Although I wasn't buying the van for urban stealth, I like vehicles that blend in, that don't stick out as a target for thieves and joyriders. Hence, after considering the Chevy Astro, I went with a Ford Aerostar. I thought about full-size vans, but at that time, fuel economy was a priority, and I really wasn't thinking about full-time vandwelling, more of a mini-RV.
I took the Aerostar out for some nice road trips; one extended trip across Canada, for 2 months and 11,700 miles was particularily great. When visiting friends and family, I had my own bedroom, if necessary. I started reading blogs and web groups about vandwelling, and started appreciating the concept. Practical, efficent, convenient, opportunistic, economic - a lifestyle option, which mirrored many of my desirable personal themes for living.
My first vandwelling period was living and working in Whistler, BC, Canada. Whistler is known as a world class ski resort, but, it is also a small city, with full-time work opportunities, year-round. I had already lived there for five years, so I have an extensive network, both social and workworld. Although there is plenty of employment, accomodation is extremely limited and very expensive. Stealth vandwelling provided a convenient solution, for a work contract from April to October '06. I showered at friends', the Rec Centre, or jumped in a lake; I cooked at friends' and tailgated; I parked whereever. Eventually, I got a steady campspace on private property, in exchange for some labour.
Since, I didn't want to stay in Whistler for the winter, I headed back to the big city, down on the coast. I found accomodation to be very expensive, around $800 - $900 per month for a basic one-bedroom apartment. After paying no rent for quite a while, I wasn't too thrilled with that idea. So, I just modified my vandwelling routines to suit.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Rebirth of a Vandweller
Posted by urban vandweller at 1:58 PM
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Career Center
Duke University Health System
Duke University Hospital is consistently rated as one of the best in the United States and is known around the world for its outstanding care and groundbreaking research. Duke University Hospital has 957 inpatient beds and offers comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic facilities, including a regional emergency/trauma center; a major surgery suite containing 51 operating rooms; an endo-surgery center; an Ambulatory Surgery Center with nine operating rooms and an extensive diagnostic and interventional radiology area. In fiscal year 2018, Duke University Hospital admitted 42,916 patients and had 1,085,740 outpatient visits in fiscal year 2017.
U.S News & World Report named Duke University Hospital #1 in North Carolina and #1 in the Raleigh-Durham area in 2018-19.
Duke University Hospital is ranked in the top 20 nationally for seven adult specialties, including cardiology and heart surgery, nephrology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, pulmonology, rheumatology, and urology.
In addition to its hospitals, Duke Health has an extensive, geographically dispersed network of outpatient facilities that include primary care offices, urgent care centers, multi-specialty clinics and outpatient surgery centers.
Duke Nursing Highlights:
Nurse Clinician - Children's Complex Care Service - Full-Time
The complex care nurse-clinician will develop and manage the Duke Children's Complex Care Service designed to support Duke University Health System (DUHS) and Community Care of North Carolina (CCNC) in their efforts to achieve the triple aim of better health and better care at lower cost for the children with medical complexity (CMC) patient population. S/he will provide direct care management for a panel of eligible CMC longitudinally at inpatient and outpatient points of care, and will help to build and refine the infrastructure of this new service line.
This is a full-time, 40 hours a week position.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
Experience and education required:
Duke is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status.
Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas--an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.
Essential Physical Job Functions: Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essentialjob functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.Pediatrics
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subset: commoncrawl


text: THE PROVACATEUR WITH TANIA BRUGUERA By Emily Westrbooks | Photography by Tom Martin TANIA BRUGUERA is a self-proclaimed artivist, pushing the art-plus-activism envelope far enough to find herself arrested not once, not twice, but three times during a performance piece last year. Mixing a degree from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago with activism inspired by her upbringing during the Cuban Revolution, Bruguera's works aim to challenge learned social behaviors and oppression. On October 6, the University of Houston Cynthia Woods Mitchell Center for the Arts will host Bruguera for the 2016 Mitchell Artist Lecture. We caught up with the artivist herself for the inside scoop on the focus of her talk. According to Bruguera, becoming an artist in Cuba gave her a certain amount of leeway when it came to engaging in activism, despite the political restrictions in the country. "The fact that all potential space for dissent has been institutionalized and has been co-opted by the government is interesting because it almost mimics all the potential ways in which democracy looks but it's actually not functioning as such. It's more like a theatre." Bruguera's response to the enforced and fabricated dissent was and is to create real opportunities to start conversations about life, politics and oppression. And while her artivism may sometimes get her into hot water – or jail, as the case may be – being an artist allows her slightly more freedom to dissent than an ordinary Cuban citizen would enjoy. Bruguera is known for works designed to challenge viewers, from an open microphone at a Havana arts center that provided Cubans with a rare vocal outlet, to a performance piece in which she hung a lamb carcass from her neck while consuming a mixture of soil and salt water to remind viewers of the story of indigenous Cubans vowing to eat dirt rather than be held captive by Spanish conquistadors. She explains, "Sometimes my work is a little intense or has 48 L O C A L | september 16 some sort of shock value and impact, and people think that's a goal. But that's just the resource to shake it up a little bit." KAREN FARBER, Executive Director for the University of Houston Cynthia Woods Mitchell Center for the Arts, said their invitation of Bruguera to speak this fall will add to the list of "visionary and pioneering leaders" who have given past lectures. "Tania Bruguera has built an unparalleled legacy of activism within, and outside, the art world. We are interested in learning how her work has made an impact, as well as informing Houston audiences – particularly Houston artists – about how this work may translate into local practices. Clearly, her work is timely and topical." Bruguera's lecture at the University of Houston next month will also shine a light on the purpose of art and her preference for art as activism, rather than traditional art for art's sake. "I feel like we are in the 21st century and we're still looking at art and using art as it was done in the 19th century. Hopefully we'll see that ... people can at least start discussing what the new roles and new uses of art are in society. Are we still going to be producing valuable objects for rich people to get richer? Or rethink the tools we have to change people's views?" A lively discussion will likely follow Bruguera's lecture October 6. A public reception (reservations can be made online now) will be held in the Moores Opera House lobby at 6pm. For more information, please visit www.mitchellcenterforarts.org.


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Just before the start of training camp, the Falcons locked up quarterback Matt Ryan for the foreseeable future. The precise details of his deal aren't yet known, but Ryan—he of the 1-4 career playoff record—will be the second-highest paid player in NFL history.
By now we know that long-term NFL contracts are exercises in creative accounting, and often outright fiction. The base salaries are backloaded to spare the team the cap hit, and those later seasons are inevitably torn up and renegotiated when the time comes.
(For the perfect example of how the numbers are manipulated, look at the breakdown of Aaron Rodgers's deal. His base salary over the first three years will total $6.4M. His base salary over the two years after that will total $24 million. And over the final two years, $39.8 million. The Packers will never let him play those last two years under the current terms.)
So what matters is guaranteed money, and Ryan is making out like a bandit. His five-year, $103.75 million deal—which will kick in for 2014—contains $59 million in guaranteed money. Like Rodgers's, we know it's massively backloaded—it'll pay $63 million total over the first three seasons, meaning a roughly $2 million-a-year base salary, with a massive jump in base salary for the final two years. You can mentally discard those two. This is, essentially, a three-year, $63-million extension, and that makes him the the second-highest paid player in the league, just ahead of Joe Flacco, and behind only Aaron Rodgers.
Ryan's deal is similar in payouts and bonus structure to the contracts signed by Rodgers, Flacco, Drew Brees, and Tom Brady—all of whom earned Super Bowl rings before signing their deals. Owner Arthur Blank considers Ryan's extension an investment.
"Matt is a franchise quarterback," Blank said. "We're not going to rest really well until we have rings. That's what this is about."
But it's a quarterback's league these days, and if it takes $55 million guaranteed to lock up Tony Romo, then it's hard to fault the Falcons for ensuring they won't have to worry about their signal-caller for a long while.


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Am I a Fraud?
What a question! Not that long ago at SWCOLT a teacher friend of mine, a strong voice in our field, asked this rhetorical question and got me thinking the same.
We both sat there chatting things up and pondering deep questions about things which is one of the great perks of getting to attend a good conference. Some of the best PD is just getting to sit around and pick your heroes brains. At least it is for me.
This question of hers has resonated with me over and over again since that day in late February lingering with me during a period of time when I felt like I had lost some of my momentum. The winter doldrums had settled in and I was struggling through an uninspired phase of the year. This is not to mention the fact that I feel I have been trudging through a year of being uncertain what I have to say (a rather important thing if you write a blog) or what I am thinking and learning about. I didn't submit any proposals to present this year because I just didn't know what to share. Still don't, really, but maybe this question is a confession I am meant to share with you.
No, I am not calling any of you frauds. What I hope to share with you is the kindred burden of reflection. Yes, reflection is a burden. It is a burden because it doesn't normally come during good times or after success. When things are good we strut around like our stuff don't stink knowing we've got swag... or at least that's what the kids we teach say. Reflection, if we accept the heavy mantle it is, comes through struggle, difficulty and during long dry journeys across the deserts.
I have proof, too! You know you have someone you teach or work with who never really thinks about the implications of the things they do, good or bad. If life or work isn't good it is because it is due to an outside force working against them. Never ever could it be that the source of the trouble stares back at them in the mirror every morning. Doesn't that type of existence seem like heaven?
So, the truth I have to confess to you is that I am a fraud. I don't always have it together in my classroom. I make boneheaded mistakes. I wrongly time my lessons or fail to scaffold properly. I get tired and grumpy and have days that textbook exercises really sound like the way to go simply so I can hide behind my computer and take a mental break. I get behind on my grading and even procrastinate. I am NOTORIOUS for being terrible about getting administrative paperwork done. I would much rather write curriculum or plan a unit. Sometimes just walking to the copy machine seems like a chore from hell.
Sometimes, really more often than I would like, my regular level 2 students don't love what we are doing, don't see the value and can't envision themselves being really proficiency speakers of Spanish. I get disappointed and sometimes blow it and yell. What you all get to see is the polished product, or what I put together AFTER stalling on the side of the road and crying. Let's not pretend... if you are a teacher, you have shed a few tears of absolute exasperation!
What happens after all of this is the worst thing of all. I spend a lot of time beating myself up. I punish myself for not being more creative or not seeing the gaping hole I left in a lesson I designed. I chew myself out for being lazy or not knowing ENOUGH. If I only just knew MORE.
BUT, I try hard not to stay in that place too long. I analyze what is going wrong and brainstorm possible solutions. I get back up on my proverbial horse and try, try again, but this time I try to be better, make wiser decisions, or manage my time better. I reflect. I don't blame, or at least don't try to. I try to be honest with myself as often as I can. Granted, some of this honesty comes slower that it should at times.
One thing I know for certain is that I am not a fraud. No reflective teacher is. I am a lifelong learner and I never want to know everything because that means the journey is over. It would mean there is no longer a point to tweet, go to conferences, or find a quiet corner to hash over the tough stuff with a colleague in another state.
As for me, I choose the journey with all its bumps in the road, detours and breakdowns.
I hope you do, too, because we have a month and a half left to go and lots to do!
Hang in there and...
Happy Coaching!
(n.) A special place where we remember that students are humans that need to feel loved and important, where their achievements are celebrated every day and where we learn Spanish along the way!
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El mundo de Birch
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Kristy Placido's Blog
by Kristy Placido
Language Sensei
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Creative Language Class
by Kara Parker &
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by Carrie Toth
En Francais, SVP!
by Wendy Farabaugh
Super Spanish Senora
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Tales from the Salle de Clase
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Que sera, sera
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Thinking About Syncing?
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Path to Proficiency
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Ohio Probate & Court Bonds
|Home Page | How to Get Bonded | Frequently Asked Questions | Contact Information
Need an Ohio Court Bond?
Old fashioned service: prompt, individual, professional service with integrity. You'll speak directly with me, a licensed insurance agent. NO call centers, no PRESS 1 for this or PRESS 2 for that. Call me personally at the number below... it even forwards to my cell phone if I'm not in the office!
Questions? CALL ME NOW!
QUESTIONS? Ring Phil in Cleveland at 1-888-728-2746, or email top of page.
Phil Pavarini, Jr. is a licensed Ohio insurance agent. All bonds issued as an independent agent of Nagashima Pavarini Ltd, PO Box 93447, Cleveland, OH 44101.
Copyright �2008-2014 Phil Pavarini, Jr., all rights reserved. PO Box 93447, Cleveland, OH 44101-5447. Email for terms of service and disclaimers.
Ohio Probate Bonds; Ohio Court Bonds; Guardianship Bonds
Phil Pavarini, Jr., Independent Insurance Agent: 1-888-PAVARINI, that's 1-888-728-2746. Offices in Cleveland & Parma. Receive an Ohio Probate or Court Bond in about a day. An independent insurance agent offering Ohio probate & court bonds from multiple carriers. Compare rates. How to get a bond: Bonds involving high limit or substandard credit may take longer to process. Ohio Judicial Bonds.
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How much do bonds cost? Instant Price Calculator, estimate. Depending on many variables, including type of bond, credit, assets, and other criteria, bond is often between $2 and $15 per $1000 face value, but there is a minimum fee. Ohio Supersedes Bond.
Within 24 hours, we'll contact you with a price. If you choose to purchase the bond through us, we'll arrange to have you sign an original application and make payment. The bond is usually issued immediately Often people choose to visit our offices in Cuyahoga County, in Parma or Downtown Cleveland. Instead of visiting our office, for a nominal consumer fee, we can arrange for an agent to come to your home or work, or we can handle everything by fax and overnight mail. Ohio Guardian Bond.
Adams ,West Union


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Made with fresh Sugar Cane juice cleaned with Gaozaban and Moringa leafs, no chemical is used
Gurh is there in our lives for so long now that we don't even remember when the first time was it enters our culinary. Sugar and Gurh in South Asia or Southeast Asia are usually made of sugarcane juice as this is the home place of this giant grass (Saccharum officinarum), rest of the world has tasted it not before early 18th century.
After the introduction of refined white sugar, in rural communities, sugarcane growers used to make it for their own or community use only. The research about the use of manmade chemicals fertilizers and pesticide on the agriculture crops revealed the hazardous effects on human health. The spreading awareness about it created a fairly good market for the Organic or chemical free agriculture products. So organic/chemical free Gurh and raw sugar is regaining its market share.
Granulated White Sugar we commonly used in our food is purely sucrose, free from molasses and is bleached to be white with chemicals (like Sulfur dioxide etc.) not good for human health.
Gurh is supposed to be better than white refined sugar as it contains molasses and all the goodness of sugar cane. Gurh is concentrated sugar cane juice obtained through boiling it. Ideally it contains 50% Sucrose, 20% inverted sugar (our body metabolized sugar (Sucrose) by breaking it down to Fructose and Glucose which are called Inverted sugars) and 20 % moisture. Rest 10 % is wood ash, bagasse fiber, molasses and minerals etc.
- Source of Minerals & Fiber
Gurh is not an isolated sweetener and has molasses in it as well so, it is rich in vitamin B6, and minerals like calcium, magnesium, iron and manganese.
- Digestive Agent
Gurh activates the digestive enzymes and itself changes to acetic acid in the stomach, thereby speeding up digestion and making the process go very smooth, reducing strain on the intestines and digestive tract. A few grams of Gurh after heavy meal or eating meet is highly recommended.
- An Effective Cleanser
We normally not connect Gurh with "cleansing the body", but that is actually one of the well-proven benefits of Gurh. Gurh effectively cleans the respiratory tracts, lungs, food pipe, stomach and intestines. It pulls out dust and unwanted particles from the body, while also giving relief from constipation, perhaps due to presence of fiber in it. Reducing constipation and stimulating the bowel movement further cleanses the body of the toxins which Gurh just cleaned out and prepared for excretion.
- Instant Energy
Gurh has Fructose and Glucose along with Sucrose and they are absorbed in the blood stream almost instantaneously and give a boost to your body when it required.
Reviving the tradition
Traditional ways of producing Gurh does not make a right product for the sophisticated urban consumer. The conditions are not hygienic, it is also cleaned and bleached by harmful chemicals. There is no innovation in the presentation to attract the consumer habitual of buying multinational FMCG as well.
We have not invented the wheel again but just have tried to correct the way it was being produced. We have revived the cleaning and color improving techniques our ancestors have been using for centuries. These have been replaced by shortcuts of using chemicals. The chemical cleaning is not only quick and time saving but cheap as well.
We have used the herb Gaozaban (Onosma bracteatum) and Suhanjna (Moringa oleifera) leaves to clean its impurities and Organic Milk for further cleaning from minute impurities and to improve color of the final product.
The shape is simple and easy to handle. The 3" x 3" size Gurh tablet cast out of an Aluminum die, can further be divided in to 9 pieces of 1 inch cube. This easy to use tablet prevents wastage in breaking it up. A variation with dry fruit will also come soon
It is not yet called "Organic" as the sugarcane growing on the lands have been using chemical fertilizers and pesticide in the past (3 years at least) but there is no chemical used in the process of making Gurh, so safely we can say it is "chemical free".


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Stay in the loop!
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Paycom Blog.
ByPaycom Blog Contributor
| Sep 27, 2016
Timekeeping technology is a powerful resource for employers and only those offering the right solutions are able to promote compliance, support autonomy and increase cost savings.
Over the past few decades, technology has changed the way businesses work. This development is vividly evident in the progression of timekeeping systems. From the pen-and-paper approach to hardware terminals to web-based time clocks, timekeeping systems are evolving with the times.
The U.S. Department of Labor allows employers to use any timekeeping system, so long as it is accurate and complete. Sounds simple, but, to mitigate risk from the Department of Labor from looking into your workforce, you will need a system that is equipped to handle various timekeeping rules – including time clock rounding and recordkeeping for nonexempt employees. The system must also address applicable state/local timekeeping and recordkeeping laws. Considering that the department collects millions of dollars yearly in back wages for hundreds of thousands of workers, it's essential that your timekeeping system helps keep you in compliance.
Studies show that autonomy has a tremendous influence on intrinsic motivation – meaning, we obtain the most personal satisfaction when we choose our own goals and engage in behaviors that we intrinsically enjoy. Timekeeping systems that support autonomy engage and empower employees while facilitating employee independence. Employees can, for example, access their time and attendance data, without having to depend on their managers. They can track their time worked, verify their PTO balances, request time off and enroll in the company's benefit plan. Managers can then approve the requests through the system.
The solution should not only pay for itself, but also deliver additional savings year after year. A timekeeping system that saves you time can automatically save you money by:
With these time-saving strategies in place, employers can focus on improving and expanding their business.
HR, payroll and timekeeping functions are highly multifaceted. It takes considerable time and effort to manage and maintain them separately.
Because all three processes are interrelated, errors in one area can trigger a domino effect, which negatively impacts all three segments or even other aspects of your business. A single-application solution may be the answer to your needs. Combining your HR, payroll and timekeeping functions into one platform greatly reduces errors and labor costs plus it improves compliance.
Consider how much your business could grow if your timekeeping system has all the essential ingredients – with regards to technology, compliance, employee satisfaction and cost savings.


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The Museum's internships enable qualified candidates to learn about the Museum as well as the way the Museum operates. Interns take part in hands-on projects and work directly with Museum professionals.
Please contact Beth Heaton, Volunteer & Intern Manager, with questions at email@example.com.
Work Location: Interpretation Department
Job Description:
The Interpretation Department is responsible for connecting visitors to the museum's collection through storytelling, programs and exhibitions. The Mariners' Museum is seeking interns to assist the Interpretation department in providing an engaging and innovating experience for children, families, students, scouts and the general public. Duties can include but are not limited to:
Expected Project Duration: Indefinite
Start Date: Flexible
Hours: Flexible
Appropriate Educational Requirement: High School or college such as Museum studies, Education, History and/or other related fields
Required Skills: Attention to detail; can work independently, comfortable talking to and interacting with people; eagerness to learn
Direct Supervisor: Manager, Interpretation and Community Outreach
Title: Internship Archives Negatives Processing
Supervisor: Beth Heaton
Hours: 15-20 hours per week
Total hours: 120 (approx)
Description: Sleeving, numbering and housing negatives
Contact Beth Heaton
Volunteer and Internship Program Manager
(757) 591-7712
Work Location: Education Department
Description: The Mariners' Museum is seeking an intern to assist the Education Department by providing guided tours of the Museum for K-12 students while also getting the opportunity to assist with all K-12 programs.
Expected Project Duration: September 2019 – May 2020
Start Date: Flexible
Hours: Must be available approximately 10 hours per week, between the hours of 8:00am – 1:00pm Monday through Friday.
Appropriate Educational Requirement: High School or College courses on Museum Studies, Education, History, or other related fields preferred. Or experience working with students in a museum or educational setting.
Required Skills: Good communication skills and comfortable talking in front of large groups.
Direct Supervisor: Manager, Education Department
Work Location: Visitor Services, Museum Admissions Desk
Description: The Visitor Services Department consistently provides the absolute best customer service to Museum Members and visitors at the Admissions Desk in a friendly and positive manner. Team members must conduct transactions in an efficient and accurate manner, and provide knowledgeable answers to inquiries regarding the Museum's exhibitions, events, resources, and campus. Team members are expected to dress and act professionally, politely and in the best interest of The Museum at all times.
Expected Project Duration: Indefinite
Start Date: Flexible
Hours: Flexible (Occasional Saturday Availability Preferred)
Educational Requirements: Minimum High School Senior, Some College Preferred
Required Skills: Attention to Detail, Friendly and Outgoing, Customer Service, Proper Cash Handling, Problem Solving
Direct Supervisor: Manager of Visitor Services


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Well that was fast. Just yesterday Disney CEO Bob Iger confirmed that the studio is developing standalone Star Wars films that will exist outside of the new trilogy, with a rumor surfacing that one such film could focus on Yoda. Though Star Wars: Episode VII will be the first new movie out of the gate, with J.J. Abrams at the helm, fans have now started to speculate on the nature of these new standalone Star Wars films. We know that screenwriters Lawrence Kasdan (Empire Strikes Back) and Simon Kinberg (Sherlock Holmes) are working on the spinoff movies, and the larger question has been whether they would focus on new characters in other parts of the Star Wars universe or whether Disney and Lucasfilm would instead focus on existing favorites.
It appears that the answer is the latter, as word now comes that two of the standalone Star Wars films in development center on the separate adventures of Boba Fett and a young Han Solo. Hit the jump for much more.
Per EW, two of the spinoff projects currently in development are "a young Han Solo saga, focusing on the wisecracking smuggler's origin story, and a bounty hunter adventure with Boba Fett at the center of a rogue's gallery of galactic scum." The Han Solo story apparently takes place in the time period between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope, so we would be delving into the character's exploits before he meets young Luke Skywalker. A Han/Chewie meet-cute is in the cards, perhaps?
The Boba Fett movie, meanwhile, will take place either between A New Hope and The Empire Strikes Back or between Empire and Return of the Jedi. Seeing as how Fett seemingly met his maker during Jedi, the time period for the character is a bit more constrained. Both films will require all-new casting, so we hopefully won't be saddled with a forced framing device featuring old Harrison Ford.
Here's where things get interesting, though: as these films take place during the original trilogy, it offers Disney and Lucasfilm the chance to revisit some of George Lucas' seminal characters. Indeed, we could quite possibly see the return of Darth Vader or even Jabba the Hutt. We know that Kasdan and Kinberg are separately writing the Star Wars spinoffs, but it's unknown which project each scribe is currently working on. Furthermore, as with all developing projects, these films could eventually change significantly or be scrapped altogether. That said, Iger seemed adamant about Star Wars spinoffs being released in between Episodes 7, 8, and 9, so I think it's more likely that the Boba Fett and Han Solo movies come to fruition.
I'll be honest, this isn't exactly what I was expecting when it was announced that new Star Wars films were being made. Personally I'd much rather see new characters and new stories taking place in the SW universe rather than a rehashing of old characters, but I guess this isn't too much of a surprise seeing as how studios are unwilling to spend large sums of money on original projects these days.
The question now turns to what filmmakers would be the best fits for these movies. Joe Johnston has made no secret of his desire to make a Boba Fett movie in the past, and given his relationship with Star Wars producer Kathleen Kennedy, I don't think his involvement is out of the question. Sound off in the comments with your thoughts on this decision and who you'd like to see take the helm. I assume we'll learn more soon.
Click here to catch up on all of our Star Wars coverage, or peruse the recent links below:
- Disney Confirms Standalone STAR WARS Films
- Rumor: First Standalone STAR WARS Movie Centers on Yoda
- THE COLLISION: Episode 35 – J.J. Abrams and STAR WARS
- Producer Kathleen Kennedy Explains How She Got J.J. Abrams to Direct STAR WARS: EPISODE VII; Won't Confirm 2015 Release
- STAR WARS News: Film Might Have Female Protagonist; Abrams Comments on Getting the Gig; May Not Have Agreed to 2015 Release
- It's Official: J.J. Abrams Will Direct & Produce STAR WARS: EPISODE VII; Lawrence Kasdan & Simon Kinberg Consulting on the Film
- Lucasfilm Postpones Plans for Further STAR WARS 3D Re-Releases


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Satti has sting. Satti has class. Satti has soul. Satti Is Hot!
Of all the food that I can bring to Manila, it is SATTI that I am most passionate about in introducing to the ``Metro Palate'' and eventually the whole country. Actually you can call this mission as the ``Sattination'' of the Philippines and the world.
Satti to me represents what Mindanao is today – chaotic, troubled yet there is something to it that attracts people to its shores, its culture, its food and people. Satti specifically characterizes the spirit of Zamboanga City, Basilan and Sulu where satti can be found.
Think of satti as the forbidden fruit which has the state of being forbidden as its main attraction. It's like a chocolate cake to a dieter, steak to a vegetarian, a beautiful parishioner to a priest; and needle to a balloon.
Non-Mindanaoans who have tasted satti call it ``pagkaing apoy'' and therein lies the temptation to taste it. The knowledge that its peanut-based-soup is spiced up with loads of siling labuyo – but which also taste sweet -- is what draws the un-initiated to satti.
What adds mystery to this food is the fact that its recipe is a well-guarded secret handed down by an Indian-Arab to a Chinese-Muslim family in Sulu. Yes, I've seen some recipes in the Internet, but I dare you to compare them with the satti in Zamboanga and which we now have at the SM Fairview Food Court in Quezon City
Thus, satti has history and mystery boiling in its red-blood spicy soup.
It also has wide popularity in Southeast Asia where it is known as Satay and Sate. Although the ones in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand also goes with grilled chicken or beef, their peanut sauce are generally served as gravy or a dip and not served as soup as satti is.
Many Asian countries also serve their satay with regular rice, but it is only in the Philippines and Malaysia where the grilled meat and sauce are served with coconut ``puso'' or rice cooked and served in coconut leaves.
Furthermore, it is only in the Philippines where the rice is dunk in the steaming bowl of satti sauce – Oreo style.
So, on the whole, you have a gastronomic experience not only unique but one taken on the wild side as well.
I have already tasted the different varieties of all the satays in different countries in Asia, the US, Canada and Europe and I tell you the Philippine version tastes the best. Don't take my word for it, taste satti and compare it with satay and I promise you that you will be hooked. Don't say I did not warn you.
Go ahead; admit it, what is forbidden almost always taste better ….
(I wrote this in my old blog in 2007 when we first started opening our Satti Grill House outlets in SM Fairview, Edsa-Ortigas, Pasig; and Ermita, Manila. The outlets are now closed but the dream of using satti and other exotic Arabian and Spanish foods to convince people here to make the trip to Zamboanga and Sulu as the ultimate "travel and culinary adventure" has remained. So, I have re-posted this in the hope that after reading this, you are going to go on-line and buy the cheap promos tickets, pack your bags and head down South. My place Zamboanga City is peaceful so long as you stay within the city limits. Bienvenido a Ciudad de Zamboanga (Welcome to the City of Zamboanga)!


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Also found in: Dictionary, Thesaurus, Acronyms, Encyclopedia, Wikipedia.
bit of fluff
1. A physically attractive woman. Primarily heard in UK, Australia. Jack knew he was the envy of all of his friends as he paraded around town with his new bit of fluff.
2. A derogatory term used to describe a woman who lacks value beyond being physically attractive. Primarily heard in UK, Australia. I can't believe my ex-boyfriend went out with that bit of fluff!
fluff (one's) lines
To forget or bungle the words that one is supposed to say, as in a speech or play. My mind went completely blank as soon as I stepped on stage, and I totally fluffed my lines. I had learned the speech off by heart, but I was so emotional that I started fluffing my lines about halfway through.
fluff out
To cause something to become puffier in appearance. A noun or pronoun can be used between "fluff" and "out." In the 80s, girls used to fluff out their bangs and make their hair as voluminous as possible.
fluff up
To shake or otherwise move something soft or plush so that it becomes (or at least looks) fluffier. A noun or pronoun can be used between "fluff" and "up." I fluffed up the pillows on the couch before our guests got here.
slang Snow. The sun will melt some of this fluff-stuff, thank goodness. I don't know about you, but I'm certainly ready for spring!
fluff one's linesand blow one's lines; muff one's lines
to speak one's speech badly or forget one's lines when one is in a play. The actress fluffed her lines badly in the last act. I was in a play once, and I muffed my lines over and over. It's okay to blow your lines in rehearsal.
fluff something out
[for a bird] to move its feathers outward. The parrot said good night, fluffed its feathers out, and went to sleep. The bird fluffed out its feathers.
fluff something up
to make something soft appear fuller or higher. Fluff your pillow up before you go to bed. She fluffed up her pillow before retiring.
bit of fluff (or skirt or stuff)a woman regarded in sexual terms. British informal
1937 W. Somerset Maugham Theatre It was strangely flattering for a woman to be treated as a little bit of fluff that you just tumbled on to a bed.
fluff up
To shake or ruffle something, especially something with feathers or fur, to make it softer, puffier, or larger: When my canary fluffs up its feathers, it looks round and fat. I fluffed up the cat's fur with a hairbrush. The pillows will be more comfortable if you let me fluff them up.
1. n. nonsense; irrelevant stuff; hype. Cut out the fluff and talk straight.
2. tv. & in. to make an error; to do something incorrectly. Todd fluffs his lines in the same place every night.
n. snow. There is supposed to be an inch of fluff-stuff tonight.


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WARM UP WINTER WITH ALPINE APRÈS AT VAL D'ISÈRE in Leaside
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_images_carousel images="12727,12724,12726,12728,12725″ img_size="650″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As Canadians we're blessed to have four distinct seasons … okay, fine, maybe blessed is not everyone's first choice of words, but as Canadians, we make the most of the cards we are dealt. We might whine and groan, but every year we haul out the shovels, sidewalk salt and base layer clothing and just get on with it. Winter may not be the most beloved of our four seasons, but there are fun aspects to winter that are well worth looking forward to … "Après" ranks highly on that list.
After a long and chilly day of tobogganing or skating, there's nothing nicer than laughing over the memories of the day while enjoying a warm drink or a plate of rib-sticking goodness. And isn't it written somewhere in the laws of winter that one MUST end a day on the slopes sitting by a fire in cozy winter garb, sipping (okay, maybe not sipping) a Jagermeister or perhaps some mulled wine? Ahhhh! Après! Though it's most commonly associated with skiing, we Torontonians are lucky to have so many winter activities that offer us the chance to enjoy the art of après … and now there's one more location that hones that art!
Otta Zapotocky, the brains behind two of Bayview Leaside's most cherished (& busy!) restaurants, brings us what is quite possibly, his brightest idea yet. Why drive north to ski country to enjoy alpine cuisine when you can have it right here in Toronto during the months when we need it the most. The ever-popular summer destination Tinto Bar De Tapas will now feature a winter alter ego as it becomes Toronto's first "convertible" restaurant, Val D'Isère at 1581 Bayview Ave.
Always on the lookout for ways to best serve his Leaside clientele, Otta recognized a glaring void in the Toronto restaurant scene and looked to his own heritage to fill that need – with his cherished cuisine of the Czech Republic near the German border. Otta already handles the Spanish classic of tapas with delicious ease and has perfected the accompanying atmosphere, so having a winter menu and a design concept to suit it, provides just the sort of shaking up that Bayview Leaside needs.
"This is honest food," says Otta, which speaks volumes to those of us who might describe our winter months as brutally honest! Nothing will warm you from the inside out more than a roast pork hock or a rich potato soup served in a gorgeous bread bowl topped with broiled gruyère cheese. It will be a struggle to choose between a thick cut pork schnitzel, a satisfying goulash or a tempting, traditional cheese fondue. Of course it's not just hearty rib-sticking foods being offered, there are also menu items for those looking for something lighter. A vegetable and rabbit stew is a little less indulgent but is still well able to assuage your hunger. Patrons will also be happy to know that the sharing plates so popular at Tinto in the summer won't be abandoned entirely. Val D'Isère will also offer a beautiful selection of charcuterie.
Supporting local businesses is a firm belief of this restaurateur so Otta is sourcing as many products as possible for the new Val D'Isère from his local scene. Bread for the bowls is from Epi, cheese for the fondue is from Alex Farm, and the fondue pots are from what is possibly the most fun store EVER, Academy of Culinary Arts: A Store for Cooks – all wonderfully local businesses from the Bayview-Leaside stretch.
It is highly likely that Val D'Isère, under Otta's direction, will follow Tinto's lead and become a place where friends and families can enjoy anything from an easy and deliciously satisfying meal to drinks on the patio after fun winter activities. This winter, brave the temperatures, save all those Air Miles points, and pop over to our very own Val D'Isère, right here in Bayview-Leaside.
STACIA CARLTON is a culinary school grad and food writer with a bit of a soft spot for charcuterie and cheese fondue … particularly found in one location. Visit her weekly at www.bestillandeat.com.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]


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Today we went from Madrid to Granada. It was about 5-6 hours by bus. Here's some windmills, with olive trees in front.
Here's a few more olive trees. This is what the countryside was. Trees after trees after trees… I think Spain must produce all of the olives for the world.
Lunch along the way, at a rest stop. Good American food! (Someone ordered a hamburger at a different restaurant a few days earlier, and ended up with just two hamburger patties, no bun or anything, so it was a gamble.)
We were all very tired by the time we arrived. Here's some random castle thingy on a hill as we were walking to our new hotel/hostal/apartments/whatever.
Here's a little map. Our apartments were at the little red dot over there, 2 streets south of the number 20. So yeah, that's the Alhambra palace in the other picture.
Here's the view from the front door of our apartment. Yes, the Alhambra was that close to our apartments.
Here's my dinner. Yep, the Alhambra again. This is at the end of the street where our apartments were.
Here's the view at dinner after the sun went down. The Alhambra was very well lit and just as striking at night as it was during the day.
So yes, we left Madrid and went to Granada. And finally, there's the Alhambra. That's the reason I came on this trip. One of my favorite guitar pieces of all time is "Recuerdos de la Alhambra" by Francisco Tárrega. It was one of my big dreams for years to go see this palace. Having it on the itinerary is why I looked twice, and why I signed up for this trip… and then it was just down the road from our hotel… I was very excited.
Okay. For today, I'm going to talk about the metro system in Madrid. Here's our group and some random other people, as a train is coming in to the station.
First, the metro was technically two parts. There's a bus system on the streets. We never took the bus in Madrid, so I can't say much about what it did. Then, there was a rail-subway system. That's what this is. We were all given week long (we were only in Madrid for a week) passes that allowed us to get on any of the trains as many times as we wanted to. They did this because we used the trains several times to get to places and events that were part of our itinerary.
Here, I ride the metro to school and home a few times a week, during the fall and spring semesters. If I want to catch it in the middle of the day, there's a train once an hour, so I get there about 15 minutes early so I'm sure I don't miss it. If it's early morning, at the busiest times, I think there's one every 25 or 35 minutes. In Madrid, there's trains about every 4-5 minutes. That means, nobody runs and tries to catch the train as it's leaving, which can cause problems here (I see it all the time.). Instead, if the doors are closing as they come into the stations, the people will simply sit and wait 5 minutes for the next train.
Because there's nobody running to get on and delaying the train, it can open its doors for a very short amount of time at each station, and then close them and take off again. I think you can get anywhere in the city in like 30 minutes on the train, and that includes all walking, and waiting for trains. Because stops don't take very long, the train can make a lot of stops without adding very much time, so there's always a train station very close. And because it's all underground, they just put one train under another, so the trains never have to wait for each other. It's amazingly efficient and easy. (Unless you go the wrong way and get lost…)
So yeah, I love the trains that they have over there. They make it very viable to get around without a car, something that I loved about Spain.


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2018 Kia Optima vs. 2017 Kia Optima
Say Hello to the 2018 Kia Optima
The 2018 Kia Optima is a carryover from the 2017 Optima, but with several upgrades to features, as well as a new trim level, the S, which will add another nicely-priced option to lots all over! As the S comes in for 2018, the SX Limited trim will be phased out. But don't worry; the features and style of that trim live on, as well as its performance, in the top-line SX trim. You can also expect an increased number of standard safety features for the 2018 Optima!
Updates to the 2018 Optima
- New S trim adds a low MSRP option with fine fuel economy and sporty looks to the mix.
- Blind Spot Detection is standard in all trims for 2018; it was optional for four trims in 2017 but standard for the SX Limited.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is standard in all trims in 2018; it was optional for four trims in 2017 but standard for the SX Limited.
- Rear Parking Assist System is standard in all trims for 2018; it was also optional for four trims in 2017 and standard for the SX Limited.
Fuel Economy and Performance
- Base MPG in the LX trim is 25 mpg city, 36 mpg highway for 2017, and 2018.
- Top MPG is also unchanged in 2018, and high: 28 mpg city, 37 mpg highway in the LX 1.6T trim.
- HP is 185 for LX, S, and EX trims in 2018; 178 for LX 1.6T trim; 245 for SX trim.
- HP is 185 for LX, EX trims in 2017; 178 for LX 1.6T; 245 for SX and SX Limited trims.
Shop for the Kia Optima at Friendly Kia, Serving the Tampa, Clearwater and St. Petersburg FL Area
Whichever model you go for, the 2018 Optima or the 2017 Optima, both of them have a peak HP of 245, elegant European-styled design, and available UVO eServices, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in many trim levels. You can find the Kia Optima at Friendly Kia, 5819 US Highway 19 in New Port Richey, FL. We also serve the Tampa, Clearwater and St. Petersburg area, as well as Brooksville, Trinity, Tarpon Springs and Spring Hill. Please call us at (877) 544-6706 or visit us on the lot so we can set you up with a test drive today.
Kia Optima Blog: News & Updates
If you plan on purchasing a new or used car, please take advantage of our trade-in policy and our exclusive partnership with Kelley Blue Book KBB.com's Trade-In Marketplace/Buying Center.KBB.com Marketplace


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'Scarcity' of Women Leads to Costlier Dates, Engagement Rings
ABC Digital
Published at
(NEW YORK) — Research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology shows that sex ratios, or the percentage of men and women, have a larger effect on our decisions than we think, including finding that men may pay more for a date or engagement ring when there are fewer women around.
In the first study, "The Financial Consequences of Too Many Men: Sex Ratio Effects on Saving, Borrowing and Spending," published in January 2012, lead author Vlad Griskevicius, marketing and psychology professor at University of Minnesota's Carlson's School of Management, and his co-authors conducted two experiments.
In a laboratory study of about 600 people, when male college participants were told there was a scarcity of women on their campuses and in other areas of their lives, they were willing to pay $6.01 more on average for Valentine's Day gifts and $278 more for an engagement ring than men who were not told of a supposed scarcity of the opposite sex.
"What's always been interesting to me is people in the study are unaware that sex ratio has any affect on their preferences," Griskevicius said. "They just feel like an engagement ring should cost a particular amount, but they have no idea what's causing them to feel that way."
In a second analysis in the paper, the researchers conducted a data study of 143 U.S. cities. In places where women were more "scarce," men cut their savings rate by 42 percent and they increased their credit card debt by 84 percent.
However, the researchers found that sex ratios did not seem to correlate with women's financial practices.
Though women's finances did not directly seem to be related to sex ratios, Griskevicius hypothesized that the scarcity of the opposite sex has an effect on women's other choices, such as career decisions.
In a follow-up study published last month, called "Sex Ratio and Women's Career Choice: Does Scarcity of Men Lead Women to Choose Briefcase Over Baby?" Griskevicius and his co-authors asked female college participants about their career and family decisions.
To one group, the researchers told the participants that there were fewer men in their communities, showed them photos with more women than men and altered news articles to show a scarcity of men. Those women more often chose high-paying careers than the women who were not shown a scarcity of men.
The Labor Department's list of top paying careers for females includes medicine, law among other lucrative careers.
"Accordingly, this low-male sex ratio produced the strongest desire for lucrative careers in women who are least able to secure a mate," the paper said. "These findings demonstrate that sex ratio has far-reaching effects in humans, including whether women choose briefcase over baby."
Griskevicius said the second paper received a more "fiery" reaction than the first.
"People are going to be offended by this," he said, adding that some women have called the research "sexist" and claimed that their career choices have nothing to do with potential mates.
On the other hand, he said some "career women" have acknowledged the research may have a grain of truth.
The "underlying response," Griskevicius said, "is that people are often unaware of how … number of men and women in the workplace or on campus [is] changing their preferences."
Copyright 2012 ABC News Radio


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Kindergarten Plastic 20 Foot Eye Chart-
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- Kindergarten eye chart dimensions: 22" x 11"
- Made of durable plastic
- Shows easy to distinguish objects
The Kindergarten Eye Chart by Graham Field was designed to test visual acuity in the patient. To test, simply position the patient 20 feet in front of the eye chart.
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Part Number(s): 746 0217
Mfg Part Number(s): 19046
Scrip Part Number(s): 746 0217
Because our price on this item is lower than the manufacturer's suggested retail price, the manufacturer does not allow us to show you our price until you place the item in your shopping cart. Retailers like Allegro Medical have the legal right to sell products at prices we set. However, adding the item to your cart allows us to show you our lower price consistent with our promise of always offering you the lowest possible prices on the widest selection of medical supplies, medical equipment and life enhancing products.
Adding this item to your shopping cart won't require you to buy it. However, our prices do change. If you decide to purchase this item now you are guaranteed the price now displayed in your shopping cart. Complete your purchase by clicking on the "checkout" button or simply remove the product from your cart if you decide not to make your purchase at this time.


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We drive demand with high profile marketing campaigns that seek to excite, educate and inspire consumers to try the latest beauty products and treatments.
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Kilkenny records warmest temperature in almost seven months
The sunshine and balmy conditions were long overdue
Kilkenny sees sunshine at last
We've all been enjoying the weather over the weekend as Kilkenny finally got some long overdue sunshine.
The mercury even managed to climb to the highest temperature since September of last year, according to www.kilkennyweather.com.
Yesterday's max of 19.4 C was the warmest in Kilkenny since 25th September last. Cooler this week, with showery conditions prevailing. pic.twitter.com/vxMx9gwKji— Kilkenny Weather (@kilkennyweather) April 22, 2018


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Book Review- National Audubon Society Mammals
John O. Whitaker, Jr., National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Mammals, (New York: Chanticleer Press, Inc., 1996, 2nd edition).
This is a fantastic field guide to mammals. It has a lot of information and good photos, and I have used it as a source for a lot of my articles (posts). The photos look realistic,like the photos were taken in the wild, and each family of animals has a seperate introduction, so you can see how all the animals in that group are similar. The information onthe individual species give helpful info on how to identify these animals, the kind of tracks they make, other signs they leave, a range map, and their habitat. All in all it is a good investment, and it often includes interesting facts about these animals that you might not know. I got this book some time ago, so there might be a newer edition.


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Welcome to ToughNickel.com! We are a site created by finance experts and enthusiasts—sharing our unique expertise and knowledge about money and finance. We offer articles ranging from the pros and cons of flat vs. progressive taxes to how to save money at Costco by looking for secret price codes. If you're looking for information that is finance related, we are here to answer your questions!
Our goal at ToughNickel.com is to be the best place online to find high-quality, informative-style content. We are also a platform for enthusiasts and aficionados to create original, useful, in-depth content. In most cases, we pair our authors with professional editors to create a well-written, informative piece.
We are a diverse group of engineers, product and community advocates, moderators, and editors that are passionate about writing and online know-how. In addition to our official team, we are a tight-knit community of thousands of writers and enthusiasts.
If you have unique financial knowledge, we'd love to have you on our team of writers. Feel free to check out our Editorial Policy and write your own article! ToughNickel.com is part of the parent company HubPages, a place to discover and create original, in-depth, useful, media-rich pages on topics you are passionate about.


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Anuenue Tea
Organic Summer Krush
Regular price $ 12.00
$ 0.00
Our most popular. Organic hibiscus, rosehip, apple, orange. Refreshing and bursting with delicious flavor, it aids circulation and the immune system, supports normal blood pressure, assists skin healing.
Ingredients: Organic Orange, Organic Apple, Organic Rosehip, Organic Hibiscus
Health Benefit: Beauty, Detox, Antioxidant, Maintain Blood Pressure, Weight Loss, Relieves Menstrual Pain, Maintain Cholesterol
Hand Crafted in Hawaii by Anuenue Exquisite Tea


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AV Dawson offers a unique range of logistical services covering Road Haulage, Rail Freight, Port Services plus Warehousing and Storage. Being ideally located in Teesside in the North East of England we can support every type of cargo covering bulk and bagged products, containers, pallets, steel products and specialist equipment and unconventional lifts.
Give us feedback on our services here.


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Volcano Classic
- Food-safe aluminium heating block
- High performance heating cartridge
- Strong diaphragm pump
- Advanced German technology
- Temperature between 130 °C and 230 °C
- Electromechanical design
- 3-year warranty
- Includes easy valve set
Accessories (Included)
- Filling chamber
- Balloon set (Easy Valve)
- Normal screen set
- Air filter set
- Liquid pad
- Cleaning brush
- Grinder
- Instruction manual
- EU to UK power adapter
The Classic Volcano from Storz & Bickel is considered the latest innovation in the vaping science field, rivalled only by its big brother—the Volcano Digit. Since it has been ruling the market for almost a decade without having gone through any major redesigns, you can be certain that the German technicians made it perfect the first time around. Customer reviews prove it as well.
The extremely accurate temperate control system lets you control both the aroma and density of the produced vapour. Since the Volcano Classic uses the forced air method, it can effectively disperse the air over your aromatherapy blends, extracting the aromas without burning the material. In case you get caught up in something or just want to save it for later, the vapour can be stored in the balloon for up to 8 hours.
The extraordinary, patented VOLCANO System technology channels air enriched with aromas through the valve into the balloon. No vapour is lost as the entirety of generated vapour is accumulated inside of the balloon. After it's filled, the valve balloon can be completely detached and removed from the vaporizer. Its contents can then be enjoyed at ease, independently from the vaporization process, which makes it both convenient, comfortable and safe.
The Volcano Classic comes with a 3-year manufacturer's warranty, restricted to normal use.
Additional Information
|Can vaporize
|Herbs, Oils, Waxes
|Storz & Bickel
|Size (length x width x height)
|20,3 x 20,3 x 17,8 cm
|Vaporizer Weight
|1200 g
|Classic Silver
|Power Source
|Heating Element
|Aluminum Alloy Heating Block
|Vapor Delivery Method
|Forced Air - Ballon Fill
|Country of Manufacture
|3 years


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The 2017 Shield Bulletin is now available: Click here to open the bulletin.
The bulletin includes the team and individual standings for each group. There is also a report by each steward.
Well done to all the winning teams and players.
The next competition, the League, starts the week commencing the 8th January.


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Money is a funny thing.
It is essential, it is limited, and for most of us, the more we have, the more we spend.
Daughter teaching a craft class to little girls
For kids, it is almost magical. Most kids, especially younger children, don't have any idea of the time and effort it takes to actually get money, or the capacity to understand how to use it wisely.
I am a firm believer in regular allowances for young children and salaries for older children/teens. I hear some of you gasp, but
honestly, I don't know how kids can learn to budget, save and spend if they don't have a regular amount of money coming in. I don't think it has to be a lot of money, but it needs to be enough that they can learn to manage it. I have seen the articles saying that a child should get $1 for every year of age, per week, to spend. Honestly, we NEVER gave anywhere near that amount for 2 weeks.
If a 7 year old gets $2.00 every payday--let's say twice a month--and he has to buy any snacks and toys for himself out of it, plus put 10% aside for savings and perhaps a percentage aside to give away, he is learning valuable lessons for less than $50 a year. Not only that, but if he really wants something that costs more than a few bucks, he either has to save for quite a while, wait for his birthday or find a way to generate income on his own. We found our kids could be quite resourceful in finding ways to earn income.
Our daughter babysat starting at about nine years old [she was at a neighbor's and I was home], a few of our children started mowing lawns at age ten and as a family we had a bread baking business for a few years and the children earned money this way. You have heard of the lemon aid stand--some of our kids did that too, or different variations of it. They would ask if I had any extra chores they could do to earn extra money, and so on. I want to talk about chores, but I think that will have to wait for a later blog.
As children age, they should be given more responsibility, as well as more money to manage. It is part of learning to be a responsible citizen. I have seen well meaning parents rant and rave about why kids should not get allowances "They don't need to get paid for doing their chores!" and then hand the
Youngest son selling and enjoying Coke
child a $10 bill whenever the child or young teen asked for it. That kind of money management leaves me shaking my head. I mean, what does that teach? I think it teaches kids to be dependent on someone else to find mercy and give them something for nothing. It does not teach them to save, or plan or have a sense of responsibility about money. It teaches them that dad or mom is a money tree.
Our kids didn't get paid for chores. They had to do their chores. Period. They couldnt' say, "I don't want to wash the
dishes, so don't pay me as much." They had to do their chores, and we gave them an allowance because they were part of our family, and family members get an allowance.
As the kids aged, when they got to about twelve, the allowance stopped, and a "salary' was instituted. I got this idea from my parents, who did this with my younger sister. I thought it was a great idea.
We sat down with each twelve year old and talked about how they are getting older and so forth. At this time, if we hadn't done it earlier, they opened a checking account and we went to the county clerk's office and got them a state ID. It looks like a driver's license, but they couldn't drive.
Then we wrote down their expenses...things like clothes, youth group expenses, entertainment, gifts, giving, lunch money and so on. We estimated that cost for a month. Then every month we paid them that amount. If a youth trip came up, they had to pay for it themselves. They did not ask us for money, they did not expect us to take them shopping for new shoes or clothes. That became their responsibility. Obviously we still took them shopping, but they could decide where and what they needed to buy and they payed for it themselves.
What usually happened is that if they wanted the latest-greatest tennis shoes they needed to save and probably needed to make some outside income. If they needed/wanted something big, and they talked to us about it, sometimes we would go half with them. My dad called this "writing a grant" and it is something he did with my older kids and with me as an adult from time to time. If we wrote down what we wanted, the price and why we wanted it, he would evaluate and might go half on it. We did not have our kids write the grant, but they did have to come to us with the request and have good ideas for wanting us to go half. Usually it was something big, like a bike or lawnmower or perhaps a big trip.
You don't have to give the kids a lot of money. Our income has always been limited. My husband was the sole bread winner and we had five kids...so we did not hand over lots and lots of money. Actually with a salary, a parent probably spends less because you are not financing every activity, birthday party present and so forth. The kids learn to save and be creative--kind of like "real life." And, you should see how happy they are when you buy them new socks or some sheets for their beds! They do not take these things for granted.
The goal is to help them understand how to manage their money responsibly. I would be naive to think that all my kids applied everything we taught them and never had any money issues after they left home. I am sure my kids have struggled with money, just like most of us--but I think they know the principles that will work, they know how to get on track, how to manage money and not be held a slave to it.
Take care,
Daughter Kari on far right. She is weaving bookmarks on a homemade loom. She and two friends were vendors at craft fair. This was great business experience. I think she was about 12 at the time.


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Deluxe Junior Suites at Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel
On the banks of the Vilcanota River and at the foot of Macchu Picchu, the Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel offers travelers 60 guest rooms: 3 Sumaq Suites, 11 Junior Suites and 46 Superior category rooms.
As of May 2016, new Deluxe Junior Suites are available. Sleep deeply with hypoallergenic pillows, goose feather comforters, spring mattresses, and modern thermal heating. The rooms measure approximately 29 to 34 square meters. Services and amenities include a King Bed, 47 inch LED tv, mini-fridge, coffee maker, cradle, small living room, DVD player, radio with MP3 player.
All guest rooms at the Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel feature the following:
- 100% goose-feather blankets
- 100% cotton sheets
- Cable television
- National/International Direct Dialing
- Thermal Heating
- Electronic Safe
- 110V/220V power
- Bathrooms with tub and shower
- Hairdryer
- Black-out curtains
- Fire alarm
- Soundproof windows
- Minibar
- 2 bottles of water complimentary per night
- Turndown service
Click here to learn more and check rates at the Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel >>


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Best, Bradley R.
Best, Bradley R.
Brad's primary areas of practice are civil litigation (federal and state), insurance coverage and defense, commercial litigation, estate matters and appellate work. Brad is a native of Potomac, Maryland and was born in Washington, D.C. He was admitted to practice law in Mississippi in 1995. Brad is currently the Managing Partner of the firm.
Brad was chosen as the winner of the 2014 Corporate INTL Magazine Global Award: "Civil Trial Attorney of the Year in Mississippi." The Corporate INTL Global Awards commemorate excellence by the world's leading advisers who throughout the past 12 months have demonstrated superior client service and legal knowledge. All award winners have been chosen through processes of public nominations and detailed research of service range, business type, geographical location, business operations, and the expertise each individual can offer to clients and companies in his or her respective practice areas. They are then reviewed by an independent awards panel consisting of business leaders, experts in the relevant fields of law, and the Editor of Corporate INTL Magazine.
Brad served as federal law clerk to U.S. District Court Judge Neal B. Biggers, Jr., of the Northern District of Mississippi from 1995 to 1996. While serving as a clerk, Brad was involved in the landmark decisions involving the desegregation of the Mississippi college and university system (Ayers v. Fordice, 879 F. Supp. 1419 (N.D. Miss. 1995)) and school prayer (Herdahl v. Pontotoc County School District, 933 F. Supp. 582 (N.D. Miss. 1996)).
Brad is admitted to the bar before all Mississippi courts, the U.S. District Courts for the Northern and Southern Districts of Mississippi, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. Brad has also been admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of the United States and has the privilege of engaging in appellate practice with the Court.
Brad received his Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from Clemson University in 1992, cum laude, with senior departmental honors. He graduated cum laude from the University of Mississippi School of Law in 1995. At Ole Miss he received the Judge W.N. Ethridge, Jr. Memorial Law Scholarship, as well as the Albert N. Hopkins Scholarship. He was a charter member of The Journal of National Security Law and a member of Phi Delta Phi legal fraternity.
Brad has authored various articles concerning insurance litigation, including "Litigating the Insurance Claim," R. Bradley Best and Jonathan S. Masters, Insurance Coverage Litigation, National Business Institute, July 2006; and "Interpreting Coverage Under the Insurance Contract," R. Bradley Best and Jonathan S. Masters, Insurance Coverage Litigation, National Business Institute, July 2006. In 2010, he authored "Summary of Mississippi Law: An A to Z Guide of Insurance-Related Topics."


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|Daily Events Calendar Athletics & Activities
|2020-2021 Important Calendar Dates & Events (Registration, First Day of Classes Schedule, Parent-Teacher Conferences)
|2020-2021 Holiday/Building Closure Schedule
|2020-2021 Adopted Student Calendar
|2020-2021 CALENDARS - Grade Specific & Cycle Days
|2020-2021 Calendar Grades 7 to 12
|2020-2021 Calendar Grades 5 and 6
|2020-2021 Calendar Grades K to 4
|2020-2021 Calendar Grades PK
|High School
|8:35 a.m. - 3:40 p.m.
|Wed. Early Out for PD
|2:20 p.m.
|Early dismissal
|12:55 p.m.
|Alternative High School
|8:25 a.m. - 3:40 p.m.
|Wed. Early Out for PD
|2:20 p.m.
|Early dismissal
|12:55 p.m.
|8:35 a.m. - 3:40 p.m.
|Wed. Early Out for PD
|2:20 p.m.
|Early dismissal
|12:55 p.m.
|Lincoln Intermediate
|7:55 a.m. - 2:50 p.m.
|Wed. Early Out for PD
|1:30 p.m.
|Early dismissal
|12:05 p.m.
|Harding, Hoover, Jefferson, Roosevelt
|8:05 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
|Wed. Early Out for PD
|1:40 p.m.
|Early dismissal
|12:15 p.m.
|AM Preschool
|8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
|PM Preschool
|12:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
|ECSE Students
|8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
|8:45 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.
|*Any weather/school delays will follow the M,W,Th,F time schedule.
* Slight modifications may be necessary to meet bus schedules.
Early dismissals, cancellations or late starts announcements:
Local radio stations announce school closings as well as list them on their respective websites. Television stations KIMT, KTTC and KAAL list school closing on their respective websites. School closure information can also be accessed on the district website's home page at www.masoncityschools.org and on the Mason City Community School District Facebook and Twitter pages.
The School District currently offers alerts through a school notification system to help the district keep in communication regarding school closure. Parents can sign up through PowerSchool to receive automatic phone, email or text message notifications. Visit the district website at www.masoncityschools.org for information on how to sign up for this notification system or contact your students building office staff.
For any additional questions about school cancellations/early dismissals/late starts, contact the Administrative Center Offices at 641-421-4401.


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Home | Supporters | Contact Us
ABCDs of Adiposity: A New Way of Thinking About Weight and Health
The world is bigger. Not that the planet itself has grown, but rather, people everywhere weigh more and body shapes and fatness are changing. In fact, the New England Journal of Medicine recently reported that more than 2 billion adults and children globally are overweight or obese, a number that includes obesity in 35 percent of the U.S. adult population. This is a critical problem since these body changes impact health, wellness and lifespan.
The challenge, despite all that has been learned from medical research, is that doctors and other healthcare professionals have not been able to help individuals significantly reverse unhealthy changes in body fat to improve health.
Many people still firmly believe that becoming overweight or obese is a lifestyle choice – faulting the individual for making poor choices in meal content, meal frequency and minimal physical activity. However, science is now clear that obesity is a disease due to interactions between the genes we have inherited, the environment we live in and our behaviors, some elements of which we clearly can change, but some of which we certainly cannot, such as genetics.
As a first step to advance the conversations surrounding excess weight, and because the word "obesity" is so loaded with negative associations, a new term has been developed by endocrinologists who are members of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) and its educational arm, the American College of Endocrinology (ACE). (Endocrinologists are doctors who specialize in disorders of hormones and their glands and have a very special interest and expertise in problems caused by excess body fat.)
This new term is "Adiposity-Based Chronic Disease," or ABCD for short. The ABCD term focuses on the parts of the body that contain fat (or "adiposity," which does not carry the stigma that "obesity" does) and the concept of chronic disease, which means that the condition can be serious, far-reaching and needs to be managed throughout one's lifetime.
In the proposed model for ABCD, the risk, presence and severity of adiposity complications are presented in three distinct stages:
STAGE 1: The person is carrying extra weight, but has no identifiable health complications from it.
STAGE 2: The person has mild or moderate complications as a result of excess body weight.
STAGE 3: The person has severe complications due to excess weight.
ABCD is not just related to having too much fat in the body, but also having an unhealthy distribution of fat (for example, too much fat in the belly or various organs, such as the liver, muscle, or around the heart), and/or having abnormal fat that produces unhealthy proteins that cause problems with other parts of the body (leading to diabetes, increased blood fats [such as cholesterol], high blood pressure, or heart disease).
So, how should we manage health problems associated with abnormalities in body fat? Let's review four basic parts of the answer.
First, we have become familiar with the term "obesity" as referring to too much body fat. Scientifically, we define obesity based on the relationship of weight and height. This is known as the "body mass index" or "BMI" and is calculated by first multiplying the height in centimeters by itself ("squaring") and then dividing this number into the weight in kilograms. (There are 2.54 centimeters in an inch and 2.2 pounds in a kilogram.) Or you can find easy-to-use, automatic BMI calculators on the internet that allow you to plug in your weight in pounds and your height in inches — EASY! A normal BMI is 18.5 to 24.9, an overweight BMI is 25.0 to 29.9, and an obese BMI is 30 and over.
However, there are problems using these classic definitions:
- People have different body shapes, musculature and genetics. Thus, BMI does not apply to all people in the same way;
- Certain types of body fat (abdominal [or "belly"] fat or fat inside liver or muscle cells) can have negative effects even if the total amount of body fat is normal;
- Some people may have an increased BMI and yet do not have obesity-related problems or complications, and;
- Using the word "obesity" is not acceptable to many people who have a weight problem, and it can have a negative meaning or confer a bad impression of the person, rather than just talking about the amount or effects of fat in the body.
Since ABCD is a chronic disease, it is best addressed by changing lifestyle in a way that lasts a lifetime, not just simply "dieting" to lose weight over a short time only to put it back on again when the diet is over. Lifestyle medicine embraces all the different ways you and your healthcare team can work together to treat chronic disease that do not use medicines or medical procedures such as bariatric surgery.
This does not mean there is no role for medicines or procedures to help with ABCD, but lifestyle change is very important by itself or as an addition to other recommended treatments. Examples of lifestyle changes to manage ABCD include:
- Proper nutrition – eating foods that are healthy and in such a way that the amounts are just right – not too little and not too much. For weight loss, the meal plan must focus on fewer overall calories;
- Physical activity and strength training – making a special effort every day to move around, exercise, play sports and avoid sitting in one place for too long, either at work or at home;
- Adequate sleep amount and quality – making sure there is enough time (usually about 7 hours) to sleep at night with minimal interruptions or disturbance;
- No tobacco – this includes smoking, chewing, or any other ways tobacco is used;
- Avoiding excessive alcohol – generally less than two drinks a day for men and one drink a day for women, but even less is better;
- Developing a positive attitude and behaviors – focusing on positives in life, reducing stress, and socializing and engaging with family, friends and people in one's community; and
- Monitoring – keeping track of what is eaten, how much physical activity (such as steps) is done in a day, and setting goals for lifestyle changes to be made, as well as acknowledging the changes that have been made.
To completely manage ABCD will ultimately require that schools, employers, hospitals and governments emphasize and support healthy lifestyles for everyone, from cradle to grave.
The ABCD strategy includes recognition of the negative effects of abnormal adiposity on health – referred to as "complications." Some of the most important ABCD-related complications include the following:
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus – this is related to problems with the body's insulin production and insulin action, resulting in higher than normal blood sugars, which in turn potentially affect the function of the kidneys, heart, eyes, brain, nerves and liver;
- Hypertension – when blood pressure is too high, in turn it potentially affects the function of organs such as the heart, kidneys and brain;
- Arthritis – this is when the joints wear down, become inflamed and cause pain. It is no surprise this is worse with increased body weight;
- Depression – feeling sad is a complication in many people with ABCD, and it can be even worse when the person is bothered by their body shape and even teased by others;
- Sleep problems – many people with ABCD have problems breathing at night, a condition called sleep apnea, which decreases the amount and quality of sleep, making them even more tired and even hungrier during the daytime; and
- Additional health problems – ABCD is associated with increased risk for cancer and heart disease.
Recognizing and treating complications from abnormal adiposity is important. But the key to staying healthy and living a longer and happier life is not just to treat the complications from abnormal adiposity, but to prevent or lessen them.
Tactics are how strategies are turned into actions. ABCD tactics ideally should be personalized, taking into account unique individual factors such as family history and health risks, each person's medical history and medications, likes and dislikes, and even ethnicity and culture. Examples of ABCD tactics proposed by AACE/ACE include the following:
- Health messaging – using media and other public service announcements about the importance of comprehensive lifestyle changes and seeing your doctor about ABCD;
- Education – informing everyone, including healthcare professionals, employers, government officials, and those in the health care industry and medical insurance industry about ABCD;
- Programs – setting up specific activities in schools, workplaces, universities and communities to bring healthy and comprehensive lifestyle change directly to individuals;
- Individual planning – to work with your "likes and dislikes" for meal/snack choices, for types of activity and exercise, for support/activity/social groups and other personalized features;
- Medical research – to support the need to learn more about how ABCD affects the body and how specific lifestyle changes affect ABCD; and
- Management protocols – to develop very specific guidelines, algorithms and other tools to help your doctors and healthcare team deliver the best ABCD care possible, using lifestyle medicine as well as drugs and procedures where appropriate.
AACE and ACE hope that the new Adiposity-Based Chronic Disease terminology and ABCD medical care plan will significantly contribute to improving individual health for you and those around you.
For more information about ABCD, health, endocrine care and healthy lifestyle change, visit www.aace.com


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Mar 20, 2009 12:00 AM - Apr 10, 2009 12:00 AM
Falling Times – Michael Bielicky and Kamila B. Richter
Opening: March 20, 6–8 pm. March 20–April 10. Czech Center New York at the Bohemian National Hall.
Falling Times – Michael Bielicky and Kamila B. Richter
March 20–April 10
Opening: March 20, 6–8 pm
the Bohemian National Hall
Falling Times is a real-time news translation machine representing permanently appearing and
disappearing information about our times. Falling Times refers to the heavy InfoPollution we
live in. The most consumed information today is the news.
The news has been turning more and more into entertainment.
Falling Times reduces the news content to headlines and key words that are then translated
into a pictogram language considered to be universal and instantly understandable. Online
users have the opportunity to define collectively the meaning associated with each icon created.
Proving information does not transport meaning any more but rather creates a pattern
decorating our daily life with the feeling that we are connected to reality. In collaboration with Dirk Reinbold.
The exhibition is a part of What Happened to the Future? – a series of exhibitions of conemporary art at the
Bohemian National Hall, 321 East 73rd Street
NY 10021 New York
United States
From: Mar 20, 2009 12:00 AM
To: Apr 10, 2009 12:00 AM
České centrum


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Our Vision : To achieve our success through earning our place in the hearts and minds of the Northern Tasmanian community.
Woolcock Partners is one of the oldest companies in Launceston, but that doesn't mean that we're not progressive. E.E. Richards was established in 1930 by Ernie Richards, then later Eric Richards and John Martin, eventually passing the reins to David Youngman and Bill Woolcock as Company Directors. Bill soon became the sole Managing Director and for 40 years continued to build by honouring their word and leading by example.
The family ethic of being firm but fair lives on with the business being purchased by his son Sam in 2013.
Sam started his real estate career in 1992 with L.J. Hooker in Sydney serving as National Customer Service Manager and implementing one of the first national IT systems in to the then 500 office network throughout Australasia.
Complacency has no place in real estate. We continually build knowledge, keep our minds open and create new paths to deliver the results we're passionate about.
We're a tight-knit team that's proud of our reputation for reliability, our ability to listen, and dedication to results both in sales and property management.
If you would like the team at Launceston Property Managers to look after your rental property, send us an email here.


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Rating: Mid-range
The views from Chilcabamba Ecolodge are dominated by the impressive snow-capped volcano of Cotopaxi, the second highest active volcano in the world. This is a destination for lovers of the great outdoors, with opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, horse riding and bird watching, plus the chance to go climbing in Cotopaxi National Park. While at Chilcabamba you can also visit local communities to learn about daily life in the Andean Highlands.
Rooms are rustic in style with ceiling beams, tiled floors and wooden furniture, as befits a mountain lodge. All have an en-suite bathroom with running hot and cold water, and the wood-burning stove makes the room especially cosy on cool evening and mornings. Large windows let you admire the alpine views from the privacy of your room. There are some suites which are slightly larger with an indoor sitting area.
There is an open plan lounge-restaurant in the main lodge, which, like the chalets, is largely built of wood, and has hand embroidered cushions and colourful rugs which give it a homely feel. You can enjoy local specialities and international dishes in the restaurant. The food is wholesome and tasty, and much appreciated after spending time outdoors.
Open: Chilcabamba Ecolodge is open all year.
Location: Chilcabamba Ecolodge is in a valley in the Andean highlands, at an elevation of almost 3,500ms, and within sight of the impressive Cotopaxi Volcano. It is about 73kms south of Quito, approximately a 2 hour drive.
Rooms: All 14 guest rooms and suites, which are slightly larger. All have comfy beds, tiled floors, picture windows, colourful curtains and bed throws, and rustic wooden furniture. Fuel burning stove provide ample heat on cool mornings and evenings. The en-suite bathrooms have hot water showers. Suites have a sitting area.
Activities: This is an outdoors destination, ideal for hiking, mountain biking, horse riding for experienced riders and beginners, and bird watching, all led by local guides from the town of Pedregal. Cotopaxi National Park is just a 5 minute drive (6kms) away, with opportunities for hiking and climbing. You can visit a local village and learn about the Andean lifestyle and even have a go at milking a cow by hand or try out your cheese-making skills! There are monthly photographic safaris. Cookery classes can be arranged. On clear nights Chilcabamba is an excellent place for star gazing.
Facilities: There is a large sitting room with views of Cotopaxi. The lodge has a bar. There are gardens. A laundry service is provided.
Dining: Meals are eaten in the dining room which seats up to 40 people. International and local dishes are available. Breakfast consists of fresh fruit, bread and cereals.
Children: Children of all ages are welcome. The lodge can arrange family-orientated activities.
Health: This is not a malarial area.
Communication: There is free Wi-Fi internet access.
Mainland Ecuador is a rich blend of scenery, wildlife, culture and history and this holiday is designed to showcase these different aspects.
"Wonderful atmosphere and views The log fire always crackling in the room upon our return. Great WiFi!"


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Despite Ups and Downs This Year, Condé Nast's CEO Is Creating a Model That's 'Built to Last'
Its 5-year plan includes video, experience and investing in its top brands
Condé Nast CEO Bob Sauerberg told Adweek about his five-year strategy to transform the company for the future in which the company projects to generate $600 million in new revenue.
Among new priorities will be video production, creating new revenue streams from brands, such as experiences to commerce, all while boosting its data platform and B2B services.
Condé has already invested heavily in video and announced it would launch three OTT channels for Wired, GQ and Bon Appétit.
"We're defining what short-form video really can be in this market and in our marketplaces. We see that as a continued growth area," Sauerberg said. "We're going to pour more gas on it, and over time it will become our predominant content format."
Don't expect Condé to remain the same in these next five years.
"We're going to have to continue to drive costs out of the business," Sauerberg said. "There will be changes as we change our company, there will be changes on how money is spent, toward the areas that are growing and less toward the areas that aren't."
Sauerberg chatted more extensively about his vision for the company, its financial veracity and where that leaves W, Brides and Golf Digest.
The conversation has been edited for clarity and length.
Adweek: What brought about this vision?
Bob Sauerberg: I saw last year that we were going to have to do a combination of things. I want to expand our biggest brands and I want to be in a real leader in video, experiences and B2B in the top brands that I have. I felt like that was the best way for us to create value for the company.
As I looked out five years from now, I didn't like the trends that I saw with my business. I wanted to create a new outcome that set a very clear path for the company I wanted us to be, that is built to last. Not just to make it for the next few years. That's what set the whole planning off.
It isn't just that this is the place you want to be if you're a print expert, it has to also be if you're a producer, if you're an engineer who creates digital products. This place has to be the place you want to be. We needed some real focus on that, and we needed to really get the company to understand that … We've got to find a way culturally to really come together, around one plan with one focus and one mission.
In the past, I had directional things, like we're going to build a digital business. Now what we have here is a very specific approach, and I think our company needed it. This plan gives us a clear roadmap, clear accountabilities. We kicked it off with the company yesterday.
How was the reception?
I think it was really positive, I think people really appreciated it. Human beings love to know what they should be doing, and so I think what will happen now is that there will be a downstream in activity as our leaders go to implement this in their areas of responsibility. There will be a lot of areas that will help the company focus and execute the strategies so the implications to every employee will start playing out over the next few months.
But what we're going to do at my level is repeat our intention, and we're going to remain disciplined about executing this vision, these strategic choices and these initiatives. I believe when all these things happen, it makes the company grow, makes the company more profitable, makes the company a better place to work, and there are very clear outcomes that come as a result of it.


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WASHINGTON — General Electric Co. said Thursday that it will invest $6 billion over the next six years in an attempt to lower the cost of health care and improve the quality of medical care in underserved regions of the United States and abroad.
The broad program sets goals of reducing health care costs by 15 percent through $3 billion of spending on new, lower cost medical technology. The initiative also plans to broaden the use of tools such as electronic medical records and other medical information technology, with the hope of providing more advanced care to 100 million additional people each year.
That will include $2 billion of financing for rural health care systems in the United States to adopt medical IT systems. It will also include money for overseas projects like the expansion of clinics in Cambodia and provide additional funding for maternal health care programs in Bangladesh.
GE said it will build on its current health care division, which sells about $18 billion worth of diagnostic equipment for hospitals and health care information technology annually. It has set an annual revenue target for the initiative, dubbed "healthymagination," of about two to three times the amount of U.S. gross domestic product growth.
The Fairfield, Conn.-based GE is one of the world's largest industrial companies, making products like jet engines, household appliances and light bulbs. It has struggled over the past year, as the recession and financial crisis have delivered sharp blows to GE's manufacturing businesses and its GE Capital finance arm.
(MSNBC is a joint venture of Microsoft and NBC Universal, which is a GE company.)
The health care initiative deepens GE's focus on areas that it considers sources of growth. Four years ago, GE launched a similar project called "ecomagination" that includes work on cleaner energy projects like wind turbines and more efficient electric grids.
"These are really two great expressions of why GE exists," said GE Chief Executive Jeffrey Immelt. "We can make money solving big problems on big global stages with technology."
GE's goal for widening the reach and lowering the cost of medicine is not purely altruistic. By focusing on its work on electronic medical records and technologies that can increase the accuracy of diagnoses and cut down on administrative costs, GE is positioning itself to take advantage of a push to lower costs and expand health care.
President Barack Obama's $787 billion federal stimulus includes provisions for medical IT, though Immelt said GE would have still done healthymagination without the spending. The stimulus plan also has $1.1 billion for research that compares medical devices and drugs to find the most cost efficient treatments. Many medical systems still work with paper medical records, providing a potentially fertile market for electronic record-keeping systems.
"We don't run a charity at GE," Immelt said. "We are in the business of earning profits for our investors. That has been true of every initiative we have launched.
GE expects that some of its new technologies could save money compared to current treatments. For example, a portable ultrasound machine the size of a tablet would mean hospitals wouldn't have to lug around the big equipment currently used to make images of babies in the womb. The company is developing 50 products that it says will lower costs through better technology.
GE plans to use its NBC television networks as a way to increase consumer knowledge about health, and will launch a daily program devoted to health in June on MSNBC. And the company expects to improve the health of its own 600,000 workers and dependents in an effort to bring down its $2.5 billion in annual health care costs.
GE will also to appoint a health care advisory board that includes former Sens. Tom Daschle and Bill Frist to work on the initiative.
The company's shares rose 27 cents, or 2 percent, to $13.947 Thursday.
© 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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Level Brands Moves to Acquire Cannabidiol Firm
Level Brands Inc. (NYSE: LEVB) shares jumped on Tuesday after the company announced that it would be acquiring Cure Based Development, the owner, operator and manufacturer of nationally recognized consumer cannabidiol (CBD) brand cbdMD.
This will take place in a two-step merger-for-merger consideration of 15,525,000 shares of Level Brand's common stock, with an earnout potential of up to an additional 15,525,000 shares if net revenue targets aggregating $300 million are met within 60 months of the closing date.
Cure Based Development began reporting revenues in 2018, and for the eight months ended August 31, 2018, reported revenue of $3.2 million, and in October 2018 it had monthly sales exceeding $1.0 million. Cure Based Development's current product offerings include gummies, tinctures, topical, bath bombs, oils and pet products.
The closing of the merger is subject to a number of customary conditions precedent as well as both the passage of the Agricultural and Nutrition Act of 2018, which, when approved by the President of the United States, contains a permanent declassification of CBD as a controlled substance under federal law.
Martin A. Sumichrast, board chair and chief executive of Level Brands, commented:
With the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, CBD will no longer be listed as a Schedule 1 controlled substance which we believe will open the access to national retailers for CBD consumer products. We believe that the next three to five years will produce a few leading CBD brands, and our goal is to be the leader in the space.
Shares of Level Brands were last seen up 10% at $4.24, in a 52-week range of $2.74 to $8.48.