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Seriously. Don't.
It has been a series of unfortunate events around here as of late and I have no one to blame but myself. Not quite two weeks ago, I did a spectacular back flip off of a ladder and proceeded to windmill myself right off of our raised deck, hitting the deck box on the way down, finally landing in a heap on the beach stone that surrounds our garden. I'm sure it could have won me the grand prize on America's Funniest Home Videos. Unfortunately, there was no one home to record my fall.
Ladder safety 101; DO NOT, under ANY circumstances, climb unsupervised or while home alone (the cat does not count). You know when you buy a new hairdryer and it comes with a warning label that says "Do not use while bathing" and you think to yourself, who would be that stupid? Well, I think ladders should come with similar warning labels. Perhaps they do. Ours is about a hundred years old and of the wooden variety. Ironically, our neighbours call it the widow maker.
Fortunately, I was not seriously hurt. I was more embarrassed than anything at the initial time of the fall. Stunned as I was, I managed to grab my phone and take a picture of the crash site before I called my husband to let him know what happened (he was not impressed).
Somehow, I managed to take two deck chairs down with me and lost a shoe in the process. Note the crack in the seat of the bench. That was made by yours truly. You would think a terrible fall like that would knock some sense into me. It did not. I got right back up on that ladder and finished the job of putting our garden lights up in our gazebo. Stupid is as stupid does.
As if that weren't bad enough, I waited an entire week before going to see a doctor. I know, I know. Trust me, I know! When I told the doctor what happened and then showed him my bruises (they were many and fierce) he could not believe that;
- I waited so long to seek medical attention
- I didn't need a note for work as I hadn't missed a day (what can I say, I really love my job)
- after viewing the numerous X-rays that he ordered (12 in total) nothing was broken!
As I mentioned at the beginning of this post, there have been a series of unfortunate events around here, and not the Lemony Snicket kind. Unfortunately, I now know what Plantar Fasciitis is and what it feels like to walk like Frankenstein's monster. I have also learned this handy trick; when you shatter and spill an entire bottle of olive oil all over your kitchen floor, the best way to clean it up is with vast amounts of oatmeal. I kid you not. Perhaps some things you read on the Internet really are true!
With all that said, I am optimistically trying to look on the bright side. I make every effort to be a glass half full kind of girl. I know that things could always be worse. and because of that, I'm still smiling. It's a sort of a wince actually, but I'm trying. The moral of this post? Life is uncertain, eat dessert first.
Don't Trifle With Me Recipe
- One bag of two bite brownies, cubed
- 1 box of Jello vanilla pudding
- 2 cups whipped cream
- 1/3 cup Bailey's Irish Cream
- 3/4 cup simple syrup
- 3 cups mixed berries (I used strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries)
- to prepare the simple syrup, add 1 cup of water to 1 cup of granulated sugar in a small saucepan and bring to a boil, whisking frequently
- allow syrup to stand and cool to room temperature
- whip the whipping cream in a medium sized glass bowl until soft peaks form
- prepare the pudding according to the instructions on the box and let stand for 5 minutes to set
- fold the pudding into the whipped cream
- layer into a trifle bowl as follows; brownies, booze infused syrup, berries, cream
- top with chocolate shavings and more berries if desired


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Gourmet coffee means different things to different people.
A good example of this is the understanding of the word, gourmet. What is gourmet? The word gourmet is usually synonymous with something good, something of exceptional quality, something that can be regarded as top class.
It follows that if we talk about gourmet coffee we usually assume that everyone is referring to the same type of coffee experience.
For many coffee lovers in the western hemisphere gourmet coffee is defined through the use of the best coffee beans, the most careful coffee roasting process, the best method of brewing coffee and the best coffee maker. In south east Asia however, instant coffee is regarded as gourmet kopi, the name they gave to coffee.
Arabica coffee therefore is regarded as a specialty coffee. Only the most experienced coffee roaster will be able to convert green coffee beans into the finest gourmet coffee.
That is at least the way in which coffee lovers view this process in the west. In the east, perceptions are slightly different. Here green coffee beans are readily available and every one is able to host the beans they need in a pan over the fire or what if the device they use to roast coffee beans.
This would be "frowned" upon in the societies of the western hemisphere. So, whilst a common love of the product of the coffee bean unites coffee lovers across the globe, it is obvious that cultural differences separate us in what we define as being special.
Perhaps a lesson can be learnt form this. Our common understanding of important issues, such as what constitutes good coffee, is often a source of misunderstanding.
If we learn to check and ask and make sure that we literally are sharing a common understanding of a word such a "gourmet" then perhaps the world might be a better place to live in.
That surely is a noble task for the humble coffee bean. In the search for what is gourmet coffee, the peoples of the world learn to recognize and accept that similar words can mean different things. Could we than nominate the coffee bean for the Nobel Peace Prize?

subset: commoncrawl


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Its apparently not Kia's fault that Android auto works with all the reliability of an eastern block vehicle, but its google itself.
Apparently my two year old nexus runs a newer OS than my essential phone, thus it suits android auto much better than it. I did a short test and it definitely has much better connectivity than this phone.
Chances are I'll just keep the nexus connected to the car and either get a cheap data plan for the voice commands to work or use personal hotspot.
But if you think Nexus is the day's saviour, it aint. Its battery still lasts about four hours and I can't use it daily because of that.
It's still the best phone I've had.


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Last night the hub and I were looking through some old photos of when we first met, nearly twelve years ago when we were both holiday reps in Majorca {yes, I find that hard to believe myself now}. What amazed me most was how much we'd both changed and grown {together, thankfully} and it got me thinking about how we've influenced each other over the years, moving from young early-twenty-somethings with no responsibility to early thirty-somethings {thirty-four is still early, right?} with fairly respectable jobs and two beautiful boys to complete us.
So not that I would tell him and inflate his ego, but here are six things my husband has taught me over the last twelve years:
1. Steak is better eaten rare – or at least the rarer end of the scale. For years I fought against this, insisted on cooking my steak to within an inch the cow's life, but over the last year or so, I have decided to live on the edge and have my steak medium-rare. And do you know what? He was right – it does taste better. Damn him.
2) To remember to love myself – that's not meant to be as narcissistic as it sounds. But the way my body has changed through the pregnancy and birth of two beautiful {but ridiculously large} babies has definitely altered the way I feel about myself physically. But he insists he still finds me as attractive as the day we met. That either makes him pretty special or a really good liar.
3) Life is better with multiple channels – until the age of 23, I only ever had four channels on the TV. My parents never saw the need for satellite and it's true, you don't miss what you never had. Until I moved in with the hub. He's a technoholic and we didn't just have it, we had it all -every unnecessary channel, package, recording facility, the lot. And you know what? I couldn't go back to just four channels for all the tea in china.
4) Love is ever-evolving – I've learned that there are many phases of love that you pass through over the years. It can be passionate, familiar, routine, reignited, erratic and ever-evolving as you both grow. And it can take on a whole other depth and dimension when you add little people into the mix.
5) To put the toilet roll on the 'right' way – I know, I didn't realise there was a 'correct' way to hang the roll either, but he kept bleating on about how the paper should hand down the front and his incessant ranting must have seeped into my subconscious over the last 12 years and now I can't bear to have the toilet roll hanging any other way. In fact I have no shame in admitting that I have even changed the loo roll around in other people's bathrooms. I like to think of it as a public service. You're most welcome.
6) Sometimes you have to take a chance – he's a risk-taker, I'm a safe-player. I'm a planner, he'd probably move to Australia tomorrow if I suggested it. I'm a 'what if-er', he's a 'so what if-er.' You get the picture. Over the years I think we've found our balance and although I'll never throw caution to the wind in the same way he would, I have to admit that his 'let's just go for it' attitude has occasionally led us to wonderful, amazing things. Two of which are tucked up in bed, fast asleep, as I write this post.


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The State of USS Monitor's Turret
Mariners' Museum
100 Museum Drive
Newport News, VA 23606United States 100 Museum Drive Newport News 23606
- FREE with museum admission: $10-$15
Presented by Will Hoffman, Director of Conservation and Chief Conservator FREE with Museum admission
This is a new lecture series presented by The Mariners' Museum and Park staff. Go behind the scenes of the Museum and explore our collection while learning about the work the staff does. This series will explore the ways the staff cares for the collection, designs the exhibits, brings objects to life, and helps everyone to connect with the world's waters. These lectures will be held on the first Saturday of each month.


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mobiledev object to acquire data from iOS
m = mobiledev creates an object
that reads sensor data from an iOS device running MATLAB®
Mobile™ that is connected to the same network as a computer running
MATLAB. The object can read data from five types of sensors:
acceleration, angular velocity, orientation, magnetic field, and
This example assumes that you have already installed and set up MATLAB Mobile on your iOS device and connected it to your computer running MATLAB. If you have not, see Install MATLAB Mobile on Your Apple iOS Device (MATLAB Mobile for iOS).
Start MATLAB Mobile on your iOS device.
On the Sensors screen, tap the sensors that you want to send data from.
Place the device where you want to get the sensor data.
In MATLAB on your computer, create a
m = mobiledev
mobiledev with properties: Connected: 1 Logging: 0 InitialTimestamp: '' AccelerationSensorEnabled: 1 AngularVelocitySensorEnabled: 1 MagneticFieldSensorEnabled: 1 OrientationSensorEnabled: 1 PositionSensorEnabled: 1 Supported functions
In the display that is shown when you create the object, a value
1 means enabled or on, and
0 means not enabled or off. The device and
computer are connected, but data is not being sent (logged)
To begin logging data, enable the
m.Logging = 1
This action starts the transmitting of data from all selected sensors.
accellog |
angvellog |
discardlogs |
disp |
magfieldlog |
orientlog |


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Exactly How Much Information Is 'Too Much' Information…?
Seminars … Meetings … Bootcamps … Workshops. Call them whatever you want – I have been there at literally hundreds of them.
At some point, usually just before the first coffee break … somebody will be talking about the challenges we all face in this business and utter the phrase 'there's too much information out there' or complain about 'information overload' … and nearly everybody else in the room will nod sagely. Continue Reading


text: JP1 Remotes :: View topic - COMCAST URC-1067 or URC-2067? JP1 Remotes FAQ Search 7 Days Memberlist Usergroups Register Profile Log in to check your private messages Log in File Section File Search Lookup Tool Wiki COMCAST URC-1067 or URC-2067? JP1 Remotes Forum Index -> JP1 - Hardware View previous topic :: View next topic Author Message TikuJoined: 11 Mar 2014Posts: 55 Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2015 9:21 am Post subject: COMCAST URC-1067 or URC-2067? Hi Friends, i am having this Comcast Remote, on the PCB its printed URC-2067BG2, AUGUST 11,05 REV.II, whereas inside the battery compartment there is a sticker showing model URC-1067ABG1-B003. now please can anyone tell me which model is this? also i want to know whether do i have to add any Eeprom IC on the PCB, because when i click on check interface, i am getting "No response from the remote", its saying check interface, i have tried all four models from the IR 8.04 Database.Here are the pics:- Back to top 3FGExpertJoined: 19 May 2009Posts: 3276 Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2015 11:31 am Post subject: That is a 1067 JP1.2 remote. You can check this by doing a 983 signature blinkback. I expect it will be 1009. So use the RDF labeled CS301009. This remote is flash based and does not use an EEPROM. Back to top TikuJoined: 11 Mar 2014Posts: 55 Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2015 12:02 pm Post subject: Thanks 3FG, you are right its a JP1.2 remote actually .2 was hidden behind AA Battery VBATT Steel Rod, so was missed by me, now i only have a JP 1 Parallel Cable which is working well, I had also build Simple JP1.2/3 Interface for a Serial Port but it didn't work for me, dont know what went wrong. Back to top alboc2kJoined: 17 Nov 2007Posts: 4Location: Venice - ITALY Posted: Tue Mar 03, 2015 9:59 am Post subject: Tiku wrote: [...] dont know what went wrong. Try a ultracheap usb-serial converter. I used a CP202x based with URC 2981 and worked immediately. Anyway try to invert RX and TX, no one knows which is which... good luck Back to top Display posts from previous: All Posts1 Day7 Days2 Weeks1 Month3 Months6 Months1 Year Oldest FirstNewest First JP1 Remotes Forum Index -> JP1 - Hardware All times are GMT - 5 Hours Page 1 of 1 Jump to: Select a forum General----------------Non-JP1Code SearchCode Search (Closed)Discrete CodesSlingbox JP1 Forums----------------Nevo and Xsight RemotesJP1 - New Remotes & RDFsJP1 - BeginnersJP1 - General ForumJP1 - Protocol DecodesJP1 - ExtendersJP1 - SoftwareJP1 - KeyboardsJP1 - Hardware Miscellaneous----------------X10 and Home AutomationElectronics RepairMarket PlaceMarket Place ArchiveWeb Site IssuesReplayTVHall of Shame (and other funny stuff) You cannot post new topics in this forumYou cannot reply to topics in this forumYou cannot edit your posts in this forumYou cannot delete your posts in this forumYou cannot vote in polls in this forum Powered by phpBB © 2001, 2005 phpBB Group


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Turn on any television channel and you will think that India is going through bipolar national elections. It is like a boxing match, being fought in proxy. In one corner is one man, Narendra Modi, ably represented by whoever his spokesperson is in the studio that evening. In the other corner is the Gandhi family, again represented by an articulate spokesperson.
Somewhere the richness and colour of the regional parties that became the integral part of Indian polity since 1996 seems to be missing in the predominant media representation of these elections. Conspicuous by their near-absence in the media coverage in this year's elections are dramatis personae such as Lalu Prasad Yadav, Mayawati, Nitish Kumar, Navin Patnaik, M. Karunanidhi, etc. Mamata Banerjee, Chandrababu Naidu and Omar Abdullah make occasional appearance.
Cut back to the period between 1995 and 1998, when the country was preparing for the 1996 general elections and also when the United Front Government faced many trust motions in Parliament. The television screens were full of leaders from regional political parties.
Plantations such as this cardamom estate in Idukki district have been
in the eye of a political storm in the recent months [Pic: Varun Warrier]
A trend towards bipolarity has its implications for environmental decisions in an ecosystem-diverse country like India. Take for instance the case of the mid-altitude plateaus of Kerala, represented by Idukki and Wayanad districts, which have been in the news during the run-up to these elections. At an average altitude between 800 and 1000 metres, these plateaus were malaria-prone regions. As with the Gudalur plateau in Tamil Nadu contiguous to Wayanad, these plateaus were only sparsely populated till the 1940s. The influx of settlers came when there was effective medical cure for malaria (1).
Those who initially went to settle in these plateaus were from communities that were landless and had the daring to go to dangerous terrains. While the landed gentry stayed back in the plains, and boasted about temple festivals and caparisoned elephants, the landless settlers braved the wild elephant herds and cultivated every inch of land they could lay their hands on. The women tended the farms, protected the children from wild animals while the men trekked for days to the nearest market town to sell what the family produced.
When this settler community gets slapped with orders emerging from the Kasturirangan Committee limiting their activities, it protests (2). While one can argue on the conservation versus livelihoods debate, the fact remains that if a representative has to take these issues effectively to the Parliament it has to be someone who is from the region and knows its history and ecology. He or she needs a political agenda that is tailor-made to represent the interests of the region, and not one that has been averaged out for the entire country. And this is where regional parties score over omnibus national parties.
The 1996 general elections and the years of the United Front Government was the period when regionalism and federalism bloomed in the country. By this time the results from two socio-economic processes initiated between 1989 and 1991 were maturing. As part of the economic liberalisation there was a focus on the middle class as a consumer base for the goods and services. This created a new kind of economic aspiration for a wider group of people. This bolstered the aspirations for development and growth from caste and region-based consolidations that were born after the implementation of the Mandal Committee report in 1989 (3).
Happening in parallel with this was a coming together of local environmental movements to demand greater accountability from the electoral candidates in select constituencies. A group of organisations, led by Narmada Bachao Andolan, established the National Alliance of People's Movement (NAPM), with an aim of bringing people's issues into the agenda of the 1996 elections (4). Similarly, another group of environmental organisations formed a network called the Jan Vikas Andolan to publicly question candidates on their environmental concerns (5).
However, it is not the case that regional parties are more environment friendly than the national ones. In fact, the trend in the mid 1990s was that each of the regional parties was pushing for development projects in their regions, oftentimes unmindful of incorporating environmental safeguards.
The difference is that the feedback loops between the people and the policymakers are shorter with regional parties. So when people ask for development or conservation that is location or ecosystem-specific they can communicate and get action for their needs quickly and effectively. The accountability for the policy maker becomes that much sharper. For instance, Chandrababu Naidu of the Telugu Desam party, who focussed on the urban areas at the cost of the larger rural population, has had to sit out for a decade.
At a local level, the perceived dichotomy between development and conservation also disappears. For the demarcation of the ecologically sensitive area (ESA) the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (Madhav Gadgil Committee) had recommended consultations through the local bodies under the Panchayats and Biodiversity Acts (6). The High Level Working Group on Western Ghats (Kasturirangan Committee), which was tasked to work out the modalities for implementing the earlier committee's recommendations, overlooked this and went through marking the ESAs using satellite imagery (7). And this is causing the controversy in the hill districts.
So much so that the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) had to make amendments to its 13 October 2013 notification, accepting the recommendations of the Kasturirangan Committee that declared 37% area of the Western Ghats as an ESA where development activities are restricted.
Through an office memorandum dated 20 December 2013, MoEF stated that the boundary of the ESA and the regulatory regime would be finalised after obtaining the views of the stakeholders and state governments. MoEF assured that the recommendations will not cause restrictions to any normal activities related to plantations and agriculture; and that the restrictions listed in the notification will apply only to new and expansion projects, and not to the existing ones.
The Kasturirangan Committee reportedly used higher resolution satellite imagery than the Gadgil Committee while demarcating the ESA. However, technical minutiae cannot replace a broad-based democratic process that would have been more acceptable to the people on the ground.
So when the media represents these elections as bipolar, what is being lost is the space that accommodates the various nuances of development and environment discussions in the country.
It could be possible that the media is reading the situation wrong or over-presenting bipolarity. In the theatre of talk shows and televised shouting matches, bipolarity adds drama.
There is reality and there is the media's perception of the reality. The country today has access only to the media's perception of reality. Will the real picture be as bipolar as what is being made out will be clear on May 16.
1. Adams T. Gudalur: A community at the crossroads. In: Hockings P, editor. Blue Mountains: The ethnography and biogeography of a South Indian region: Oxford University Press; 1989.
2. Rajagopal K. Ghats row and its aftermath. The Hindu. 20 March 2014.
3. Ramakrishnan V, Singh SR. Vital pieces of a jigsaw. Frontline. 16 April 2014.
4. Warrier SG. The centre will hold. The Hindu Business Line. 26 February 1996.
5. Warrier SG. Eco issues may feature in select LS campaigns. The Hindu Business Line. 27 March 1996.
6. Report of the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel. Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India; 2011.
7. Report of the High Level Working Group on Western Ghats. Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India; 2013.


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Weekend Checklist: Sondre Lerche, Koo Koo Kanga Roo, Stone Arch Festival
"The sun is shining. Weather is sweet. Make you wanna move your dancing feet."
-Bob Marley
Friday 6/17/2011
Kaivama (CD release) with Arto Järvelä
Cedar Cultural Center
Finnish-American excavators.
AA, $15 adv, $18 door, 7 pm
Roe Family Singers (CD release) with Lisa Fuglie, Mark Anderson, Cactus Blossoms
Friday (6/17) & Saturday (6/18)
331 Club
Old timey music played by one pretty little lady and a bunch of guys.
21+, Free, 10 pm
Eve & the Apple (CD release) with Hunting Club, Dearling Physique
Kitty Cat Klub
18+, $5, 9 pm
Sondre Lerche with Nightlands, Kishi Bashi
Fineline Music Cafe
Minnesota's favorite Norwegian.
18+, $15 adv, $17 door, 8 pm
Koo Koo Kanga Roo with Neil Zumwalde, Golden Bubbles, El Drifte
Pure fun.
21+, $5, 9 pm
Florence and the Machine with Hanni El Khatib
MN Zoo Weesner Amphitheater
The dog days are just beginning.
AA, $55-$67.50, 7 pm
Saturday 6/18/2011
Ghostmouth (CD release) with San Dimas, Kredentials, Speeds the Name
400 Bar
18+, $5 adv, $8 door, 8 pm
Justin Roth (CD release)
"Now You Know."
AA, $10 adv, $12 door, 8 pm
Saturday (6/18) & Sunday (6/19)
Minneapolis Riverfront
So much good music...all for free!
Click here for set times.
AA, Free
Rock the Garden 2011 with My Morning Jacket, Neko Case, Tapes N Tapes, and more
Walker Art Center/Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Sold out? Maybe you can find a seat on an apartment rooftop.
AA, $46 GA, $175 VIP, 3 pm
Corefest 2011 with Alistair Hennessy, Six Feet of Silence, and more
Station 4
$2 for an evening of music? Score.
AA, $2, 4:30 pm
Natasha Bedingfield with Kate Voegele, Kevin Hammond
First Ave.
Commercially pleasing to the ear.
AA, $20, 5:30 pm
Little Man with Surgeons in Heat, Brutes
Hell's Kitchen
So much entertainment in such a little man.
21+, $5, 10 pm
Sunday 6/19/2011
Lenka with Elizabeth and the Catapult
7th Street Entry
"Just enjoy the show..."
18+, $12 adv, $14 door, 7 pm
Tribe & the Big Cats with Educated Consumers, Prolyphic, Metermaids
Get it Movin'.
21+, $6, 9:30 pm
Deep Purple with Ernie & the Automatics
Orpheum Theatre
"Sa-moke on the waaater."
6+, $48.50-$78.50, 7:30 pm


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One of Paul's only requests during our week in Provence was to see a lavender field. The other was to sit by the pool.
We found one at Senanque Abbey near the hilltop town of Gordes, which is totally beautiful and full of spa hotels, just as a note.
It was a great day for taking pictures.


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Title IX History
Title IX
In 1972, the federal government passed Title IX. Title IX prohibits sex and gender discrimination in educational institutions that receive federal funding. Under Title IX, schools are legally required to respond and remedy hostile educational environments. Failure to do so is a violation and puts schools at risk for losing federal funding.
When Title IX was signed in 1972, its purpose was focused on equity and access for female students, particularly pertaining to athletics, financial aid, and admissions. However, since its adoption, Title IX has been expanded to include protection against sexual harassment and sexual violence, as well as gender discrimination against transgender students and pregnant students. Title IX is currently a living, breathing document, with currently, over 20 suggested amendments since its creation. Title IX and the protection of students against sex and gender discrimination continue to be an important topic and area of focus for higher education. More recently, since 2011, the federal and local government have added new requirements under Title IX to ensure that colleges prevent, respond to, and remedy sexual misconduct.
Title IX applies to all educational institutions from elementary to higher education. Title IX includes protection from the following:
1. Sexual harassment and sexual violence/misconduct
2. Retaliatory enviornments against someone's gender identity
3. Inequal access to athletics based on sex/gender
4. Inequal access to financial assistance based on sex/gender
5. Inequal access to admissions or educational programs based on sex/gender
At Gustavus Adolphus College, anything breaking our sexual misconduct policy, including non-consensual contact, non-consensual penetration, intimate partner violence, stalking, and sexual exploitation, will follow our sexual misconduct process as outlined in our sexual misconduct policy. All other forms of sex and/or gender discrimination would follow different processes pending on the scope of the hostile enviornment created and the persons involved. Student to student sexual and gender harassment would follow our bias process as outlined on the Bias and Hate Crime Reporting Page on the Gustavus website.
1972: Title IX is passed by the Supreme Court.
1992: Franklin v. Gwinnett Public Schools: Courts decide sexual harassment and sexual violence should be covered by Title IX
1998: Gesber v. Lago Vista Independence Shool: Schools are responsible to respond to an incident of sexual harassment and/or sexual violence if the school had reasonable notice.
2001: The Office of Civil Rights distributes guidance on responding to sexual harassment
2011: The 2011 Dear Colleague Letter is distributed by the Office of Civil Rights outling key actions a school should take to prevent, respond to, and remedy the impacts of sexual harassment and sexual violence. Noting that sexual assault had become an epidemic on college campuses, OCR reiterated that Title IX guarantees all students an education free from sexual harassment and violence.
2013: The Campus SaVE Act is passed, taking a large portion of the guidance within the 2011 Dear Colleauge Letter and making it so that federal law schools comply with those standards.
2013: The Violence Against Women's Act amendment within the Clery Act is passed by the federal government expanding Title IX to cover protection for intimate partner violence and stalking.


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This item is currently unavailable.
We may attempt to source an alternate supplier, and will update this page if we do.
As an alternative, please CLICK HERE to view other products in the same category.
The Mayfly 150 preformed pond is easy to install, and its convenient shelving can support a variety of wildlife and plants. Create your own natural look and make it into the perfect home for your plants and wildlife.
With an easy-to-install setup, you can start customising the look of your pond in no time at all. With shelving space on which you can place your plants and features, you can give your pond the look you want. Watch as wildlife flourishes within the multi-layered shelving system. It also has enough depth to make sure that your fish stay happy during those chilly winter months.
Length 109cm (3ft 7in) x Width 76cm (2ft 6in) x Depth 40cm (1ft 3¾in)
Capacity: 150 litres (33 gallons)
"All good fast delivery thanks"
Reviewed Saturday, 5 January 2019
"easy to install (hard ground not there fault) quality product and next day delivery"
Reviewed Tuesday, 11 September 2018
"Right size for my garden."
Reviewed Monday, 20 August 2018
"i have rated this 5 stars because it is well made and strong"
Reviewed Sunday, 6 May 2018
"Great quality product - exactly as expected"
Reviewed Saturday, 3 February 2018
"it was just as good as viewed"
Reviewed Wednesday, 22 November 2017
"excellent goods matched the picture and good value for money"
Reviewed Wednesday, 4 October 2017
"Perfect size for the space I had and great VFM."
Reviewed Sunday, 30 July 2017
"Well finished and good quality"
Reviewed Monday, 24 July 2017
"The 2 ponds have done just what i hoped.. If i can make just one vety small comment it would be the adhesive used to stick the paperwork etc to the plastic, there was one that was very difficult to remove... And pretty important in a pond to be able to remove it... Its not a huge problem and doesn't at all detract from an excellent product"
Reviewed Wednesday, 29 June 2016


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It's no secret that in recent years, natural hair has become somewhat of a cultural phenomenon. From on-screen visibility, to in-store availability, Black women … Read More »
Just Go for It – The Heart of the Brand Behind the Scenes with Breezy Tee
In 2016, small businesses have arrived. When the economic recession of 2008 hit, the dream of graduating from college and waltzing into a cushy career was shattered. Jobs … Read More »
Are You Willing to Let Your Husband Wash Your Hair?
The first time my boyfriend asked me if he could wash my hair, I was apprehensive and a bit confused. I couldn't believe that he wanted to touch my hair – let alone wash it. … Read More »
We Tried It: Kink Alchemy's Whipped Shea Butter Recipe
At 4cHC, we love a good DIY recipe – that's why when we learned about Taymer Mason's Kink Alchemy book full of DIY beauty recipes inspired by Caribbean island hair growth … Read More »
Unpacking Pretty: White America Won't Admit It… But Black Beauty is the New Standard.
It seems like every week, we find ourselves in a battle to defend our culture and humanity against mainstream media. This back and forth is nothing new – we've been doing … Read More »
New Naturals: Create Your OWN Wash-Day Routine
Growing up, I had friends that washed their hair every morning or every other day. By comparison, my wash days were rare - with my mom washing my hair bi-weekly or once a … Read More »
#StyleInspo: 10 Amazing Styles for 4c Hair
The seasons are changing, and I'm itching to switch it up. So I did what I do best - browse YouTube for style inspo. If you're looking to try a new style this season, check … Read More »
5 Must Watch Videos of 4c Naturals Using Curlformers
When I first stepped into the natural hair world and started seeing videos about Curlformers, I wasn't 100% convinced they would work on my hair. I just knew that if I tried … Read More »
Jesse Williams Addresses Black Women in 2016 BET Humanitarian Award Acceptance Speech
At the 2016 BET Awards, 31-year-old actor and activist Jesse Williams received the BET 2016 Humanitarian Award for his support of the Black Lives Matter movement. In his … Read More »
Raising a Confident Daughter in a Changing America
When it comes to Black fathers being present in the home, mainstream media would like to paint a dismal picture filled with tales of skipped child support payments, baby daddy … Read More »
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I am still getting used to this blog and how it works, so it's taken me a bit longer to figure out the best way to add gluten-free recipes and gluten-free products. I think that I've found a way that seems to work. Be sure to click on
Check back often or better yet subscribe to see what is added. My daughter is an awesome baker. Unfortunately it's like pulling teeth to get the recipes out of her, so I can, at best, do about one a day! Please check out the things I've listed and feel free to offer feedback. I happily welcome advise and constructive criticism.


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Procedures - All students enrolled in the MPS system, regardless of age, are required to be in continuous attendance at their designated school. The Alabama Administrative Code: 290-3-1- 02 (7) (C) requires a written note signed by the parent/guardian, which states the reason for the student's absence. Failure to furnish a written explanation for the absence may result in the student being considered truant with the knowledge of the parent/guardian as the person in control of the student. Makeup work will be given for all excused absences.
1. For success in school each student should: Attend school regularly and punctually.
2. For children to be successful, parents should: Make certain their child's attendance at school is regular and punctual.
3. It is the responsibility of the school to: Keep accurate daily attendance records and reports. Excused and unexcused absences are required.
However, any assignment, homework or test missed during an unexcused absence, will receive an automatic "0." Any student in grades K-12 who accumulates more than twenty (20) excused absences or more than ten (10) unexcused absences for the school year will be retained. Only excused absences permit class work to be made up
All absences are coded as either "excused" or "unexcused". If a student is absent at least ½ of the instructional day, (11:30 a.m.) he/she is considered absent for the day. A child must be in school each school day and have no tardies or checkouts for the entire reporting period to have Perfect Attendance. Written documentation must be submitted within three (3) days after the student's return to school. Failure to provide a written excuse will result in an absence being coded as "unexcused". Five (5) unexcused absences within a school year constitute a student being truant for the purpose of filing a petition with Juvenile Court.
Excused Absences
1. Personal Illness
2. Serious illness in the family verified by an Attendance or District Resource Officer
3. Death in the immediate family (not to exceed one week)
4. Absence for the observance of recognized holidays of the child's own faith
5. Inclement weather which makes it dangerous to attend school
6. Court-required appearances
7. Emergency conditions as determined by the superintendent or principal
8. Prior permission of the principal with request from the parent, guardian, or legal custodian. (Parent should complete the "Prior Approval of Absence" form, which may be obtained from the school office. The form must be signed by the principal before the absence takes place.)
A suspension is an unexcused absence. Therefore, missed assignments will receive a failing grade.
1. Students who arrive after 8:40 a.m. will report to the main office accompanied by a parent. The student will be given a pass to class. In order for a tardy to be excused, the parent must immediately present to the office worker a written excuse explaining the reason for being tardy.
2. Tardiness is excused for the following reasons: illness of self or an immediate family member, death in the family, emergency or exceptional situations as determined by the administration. Traffic problems or car trouble is not a valid excuse.
3. If a student is tardy to school because of a doctor or dental appointment, he/she must bring a statement from the doctor or dentist before the tardy will be considered excused.
1st Tardy: Written notification to parent
2nd Tardy: Written notification to parent
3rd Tardy: Written notification to parent
4th Tardy: Mandatory parent conference with an administrator
5th Tardy: Referral to Montgomery Public Schools Attendance Officer
Parents are asked to notify the school at least 24 hours in advance to withdraw so that the designee may prepare the necessary withdrawal forms and to inform the parent of any damaged or lost books, materials, or of any other outstanding debt(s). Upon completion of the withdrawal form, a transfer form will be issued. The student's records will be forwarded to the new school upon that school's request.
Check In or Check Out:
Parents must sign their child in and out.
Proper ID is needed in order to check in or check out students. The person bringing or picking up a child must be listed on the child's registration card.
No student will be allowed to check out after 3:15. Check-outs before 12 noon will be considered an absence. A note must be sent within three days of return in order for the absence to be excused.
Should you need to check in or check out your child, a note will be needed to make up class assignments. A note will be required for a check-in to be excused. Without a note, the tardy is unexcused.


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By Brian P. Klein, Special to CNN
Editor's note: Brian P. Klein is an economic consultant and former U.S. diplomat. The views expressed are his own.
Disney characters dancing on stage, women wearing short skirts, and a country's new leader making speeches, smiling, and glad-handing military officers. In most places around the world, that's nothing unusual. But for North Korea, it marks a sea change in image if not quite reality.
Political transition in Pyongyang has reached its apex with every major title bestowed on Kim Jong Un from head of the military to party boss. Despite concerns over a dynastic handover to the young and untested leader, purportedly just shy of 30 and apparently married, the regime didn't collapse. And in a highly unusual show of openness this past April, foreign journalists were allowed to cover a rocket launch that ultimately crashed soon after take off. State media even reported the failure.
The new Kim isn't just continuing the family business of running a country. He's a significant generational change, intended or not. And change is coming one position at a time among the septuagenarian leaders that guided his father into decades of isolation and economic stagnation. Ri Yong Ho – the former head of the 1.2 million soldier army, who fought alongside Kim's grandfather – is out, while General Hyon Yong Chol rises to Vice Marshal. More changes are likely as Kim moves supporters closer to his inner circle. Indeed, Reuters has suggested as many as 20 replacements have already been made.
Impetus for change is accelerating along with the world outside North Korea. A dramatically different regional and international environment now exists from the time Kim Jong Il took over in 1994. Gaze across the Yalu river to the north and the Chinese city of Dandong, with its high rises, traffic-filled roads and store shelves full of goods stands in stark contrast to the North Korean city of Sinuiju. The colored light show at "Friendship Bridge" must sting locals a mile away, where the city is shrouded in darkness. South Korea, too, blazes with economic activity and wealth, signs of which either float over with activists' balloon diplomacy (parcels of money, CDs, and snack foods drifting in a low-tech wave over the demilitarized zone) or smuggled across the border with China.
The global club of isolated states, meanwhile, has shrunk considerably, with many either opening or crumbling. Myanmar's military leaders have decided that reform is a much better option than continuing as a pariah state. Widespread sanctions have been lifted and tremendous new wealth is in the offing. Don't expect any major nuclear construction projects or missile technology transfers from North Korea (a major hard currency earner) in the future. Cuba, too, has also taken tentative steps at economic reform without any backlash against the Castros. Quite to the contrary – they've been credited for the recent improvements, if not decades of stagnation.
North Korea's propaganda machine can easily spin change, and the third Kim dynasty will be seen making history, not destroying his father's legacy. But Kim Jong Un may also see quite clearly that relying on China won't ensure his country's future growth or development. While the rest of the world has made a mint on trading with the world's second largest economy, selling everything from raw materials to lightly manufactured goods, North Korea remains lost in a backwater. Even among its regional peers, Pyongyang lags decades behind. Wander the streets of nearby Hanoi and a wave of mopeds and cars signal new wealth and an emerging Vietnamese middle class. North Korea's streets are ornamented by crisply suited traffic guards with very little to do. None of these changes are likely lost on Kim.
Gone too are the days of winning concessions from the outside world with belligerence. Negotiations, concessions for food aid or South Korean investment don't flow from missile tests anymore. A rocket launch of old could spark a round or two of shuttle diplomacy between Washington, Beijing, Tokyo and Seoul with aid packages in tow. These days, its a few brief television moments and then nothing but a long silence to follow.
North Korea's first attempt at engagement since the elder Kim's death had actually achieved some cautious results. There was a glimmer of hope for renewing Six Party Talks, IAEA inspectors returning and a fresh start on verifiable denuclearization. What failed this time wasn't only a rocket launch, but the North Korean military's outdated strategy of flexing its offensive muscles.
Still, the threat of wider conflict or all out war remains remote. A military confrontation between North and South Korea would result in mutual destruction. Old school artillery does the devastating work particularly well. Even after the height of 2010 tensions, with alleged North Korean attacks on South Korea's Yeonpyeong Island and the sinking of a naval ship off the coast with dozens of lives lost, the joint North-South Kaesong Industrial Complex manufacturing zone near the border remained in operation. Neither side was apparently willing to end the project, which gives the North hard currency and the South a tentative influence on its neighbor.
Minor changes aside, it's still far too early to tell whether Kim will chart a new defense and economic policy course. The historical and defense-related issues on the Korean peninsula make for a unique environment with little resemblance to the Arab Spring. Mickey Mouse, with all his pluck and candor, does not a Glasnost make.
Still, incremental opening is important. Analysts have been far too preoccupied over the last thirty years with collapse scenarios and prospects for unification along the lines of East and West Germany. All the while, the regime has survived famines, sanctions, the loss of major donor countries and two major leadership transitions. None of these damaged the Kim family's grip on power, and as a nearly 30-something-year-old in charge, Kim Jong Un may be around for a long, long time.
As Kim begins to make his mark on domestic and international affairs he should take away the fact that his father's old shoes don't fit. As a Korean proverb goes "too many carpenters knock over the house." A policy informed less by the antiquated rattlings of a Cold War generation and more by the world around him might actually bring about the respect and change the new Mr. Kim might want – and, more importantly, a brighter future for the impoverished North Korean people.
For the U.S., this tentative opening provides an opportune moment to re-engage with North Korea, but with a decidedly different approach. Rather than aiming for high policy with nuclear disarmament front and center, a more nuanced approach would lead to short-term tangible results. Back in 2008, the New York Philharmonic made a historic visit to Pyongyang and received a reserved, but warm reception. It was an opportunity to showcase the United States as non-enemy to a population fed on a steady stream of anti-American propaganda.
The U.S. should now return the favor and invite North Korean musicians to New York. Such a basic overture is neither reward nor acceptance of North Korea's brutal human rights record, its brazen attacks on South Korean territory, or years of flaunting U.N. resolutions. It is a cautious, pragmatic step, nothing more. Ping-pong thawed U.S.-China Cold War enmity forty years ago. Perhaps a concerto or even a bit of jazz will do the trick this time around.
A not-so Dear Leader in the upper Korea would be nice for both domestic and international relations. Now, will the US allow for gradual shifts in Korean policies or push for something more rapid? Too much external pressure on a closed state can backfire into a double-down situation by the target nation. Those in the US who are not yet tired of starting wars like to keep their options open.
The simple fact is that after stringent gun laws the only people with guns will be the criminal element which will prey on all of us. The only thing that would have stopped the kook in Colorado was someone else in the audience who had a gun and could use it to protyect themselves and the others. Unfortunately because of the anti-gun laws in Aurora Co. there was no one who could protect themselves or others because they were disarmed.
He is a liberal and i have confidence in him and DPRK.


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Denison Police
Denison Police
Assault – A man called police on Oct. 25 saying that his 13-year-old son had been in an altercation with his other son. When the man told his son to go to his room, the son came out of the room causing damage to the inside of the residence and charged the father, knocked him to the ground and then kicked, punched and bit him. Police arrested the 13-year-old for assault causing bodily injury/family violence.
Theft – On Oct. 24, employees from a store at the 400 block of North U.S. Highway 75 told police that a woman changed the UPC codes on products from more expensive items to less expensive items. The police report also said woman attempted to exit the store with concealed items for which she did not pay. She had previously received a criminal trespass warning for all Walmart properties. Police arrested the woman for burglary of a building and theft over $50.
Criminal Mischief – A complainant informed police on Oct. 26 that an unknown suspect had damaged a large plate glass window in a business located on the 2100 block of South Woodlawn, causing $235 in damage.
Theft – The victim told police that on Oct. 27 someone removed a 27-inch television worth $300 from his bedroom at the 500 block of West Sears. Police will be following up on leads.
Burglary – The victim told police that on Oct. 27 an unknown suspect removed a toolbox and tools worth $7,500 from the bed of his pickup at the 600 block of East Sears.
Burglary – On Oct. 28, a complainant told police that an unknown suspect was observed coming down from the ceiling in a bathroom in a building at he 700 block of West Chestnut. Officers responded and were unable to locate anyone inside the building. The investigation is continuing.
Burglary – The victim told police that on Oct. 28 an unknown suspect removed the catalytic converter, worth $2,500, from his pickup at the 3100 block of Frances.


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We would like to say thank you to all our guests from previous years, for choosing to stay at our hotel in Agistri.
Probably the most accurate way to judge if we are meeting our guests' expectations is through reviews on Tripadvisor and in this respect, we cannot thank you enough for the lovely, positive feedback you have provided. A small sample from 2015, from a variety of different Nationalities:
- A lovely hotel on a delightful island (UK)
- Home away from home (Denmark)
- You can't find a better place' (Sweden)
- Lovely, friendly owners in a piece of paradise (South Africa)
- Best hotel in Agistri (Israel)
- A well kept secret in the Mediterranean (Estonia)
- Summer holidays …… beautiful moments (Cyprus)
- Wedding, vacation, no matter what – look no further (Germany)
We are looking forward to the upcoming season, we will continue in our attempts to improve our guests' holiday experience – we never forget how important those precious few days on holiday are.


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Pandora Offered in One-Third of Cars Sold This Year
As iTunes announces their streaming radio service to launch this fall, Pandora continues to make deals that put their service in the dashboard, where they can continue to expand audience. According to wsj.com yesterday, Pandora will be available and installed in one-third of new cars sold in the US this year.
That impressive stat brings the streaming service a lot of new listeners – Pandora says they have seen more than 2.5 million unique activations through integrations from the 23 major automotive brands and eight aftermarket manufacturers they are installed with.
Meanwhile, the popularity of streaming and the connected dashboard is not being overlooked by Sirius XM. Despite deals that already have their satellite service installed in a long list of vehicles. Sirius XM has been improving its streaming offering of late, and just announced a deal with Ford that will pair both its satellite and online radio offerings in new Ford cars with Sync AppLink.
Meanwhile, tuner platforms like TuneIn and Aha Radio both have integration deals with auto manufacturers as well, and folks like me connect just using their smartphones. Audio options in the car are expanding, and the big services have taken note. Is the next new thing an iTunes radio in your dashboard? If so, it will likely be one that will sync with your iPhone…


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Jamie Hansen Art
Contact Sellerx
This is a download. No printed art will be mailed.
I create custom coats of arms for families and businesses. My works are modern interpretations of pieces created centuries ago. This art is a response to Ephesians 6:10-20. This is a download of my art created in response to this bible verse. Use it for notecards, bags, stationery, or wall decor.
Coats of arms were initially used to establish identity on the battlefield. This visual identifier depicts the powerful parts of the Armor of God, using references reinforced by artists throughout history. This giclee of my original artwork is professionally printed on durable cotton rag.
Print options: this is a 10" x 10" print in jpg format.
Here's the full verse of Ephesians 6:10-20: 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people.19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
And my statement, explaining the parts of the piece:
Paul mentions a variety of components that make up the full Armor of God. I have represented each component of the armor in this piece.
The belt of truth is the red belt that encircles the shield, inscribed with "Spiritus Gladius", which translates to "Spirit of the Sword," A phrase that is often used in conjunction with symbols for Paul.
The breastplate of righteousness appears on the horse on the left. I associate the horses with St Paul because he is said to have fallen from his horse before conversion to Christianity.
The gospel of peace is represented by the dove as well as the Christian flag on the shield. The Shield of Faith is carried by horse on the right. The shield wards off the flaming arrows of the evil one. The arrows are at the base of the artwork.
The helmet of salvation is at the top of the work and the horse in chains carries a shield as well as the sword of the spirit.
The mantle flies behind the Roman battle helmet like flames of the spirit and the base is draped with olive branches for peace. The shield is tilted because like any human, we can be protected but can never be perfect in the word.
Like a banner one might carry going into a battle, this artwork is a reminder of the spiritual protection that a faith in God gives to a believer.
If you've enjoyed reading about how I create my coats of arms, reach out to me to commission your own coat of arms to celebrate your story!


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Fed's Hoenig on the Failure to End Bailouts, and Why Another Crisis is Coming
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Thomas Hoenig, the president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas, said Tuesday that it is important to winnow the breadth of commercial banking activities to help offset risk in the financial system.May 3
Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City President Thomas Hoenig said community banks likely will continue to be harmed by a perception that larger institutions are "too big to fail."August 23
WASHINGTON — With the regulatory reform debate taking a leap forward this week, Thomas Hoenig, the president and chief executive of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, is advocating a more clear-cut world for financial services and those who supervise it.June 16
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Thomas Hoenig, the president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, one of the most outspoken members of the Federal Open Market Committee, has never been shy when it comes to his opinion.
As his 20-year tenure comes to a close on Oct. 1, Hoenig sat down with American Banker to talk about a range of topics, including the missed opportunity to eliminate 'too big to fail' in Dodd-Frank, his duty to be forthright as the longest serving policy maker, and what his future plans might be — including the prospect of moving to Washington. This is an abridged edited version of the interview with Hoenig.
Q: You've been a strong critic of Dodd-Frank, how do you think the law has fallen short and how do we correct it?
HOENIG: The Dodd-Frank bill now defines what a systemically important financial institution is, which makes it now a kind of broad notice that these are the institutions that are 'too big to fail.' That means we will further concentrate our financial system to these powerful few companies, and therefore make it even more fragile in the sense of financial vulnerability to the taxpayer. I don't think that's healthy.
Q: Banks seem very concerned about how much capital they are going to have to raise as a result of Dodd-Frank and Basel III.
HOENIG: They're concerned about their return on equity, and I'm concerned about the safety of the banking system and the American depositor and taxpayer. All the safety net has done is allowed them to leverage up to their advantage on the backs of the American taxpayer. I have a hard time as a person, who is more concerned about the safety of the system and the taxpayer, to worry about their position.
Q: You've said the only solution is to break up the banks and strengthen the 'Volcker Rule.' Would that undo the codification of 'too big to fail'?
HOENIG: You can mitigate. You can make it less likely that they are 'too big to fail' because you separate out these horribly, complex instruments from the institution, therefore you can address the risk in those institutions more directly.
Q: Did Dodd-Frank make the financial system any safer?
HOENIG: I don't see it as more safe. I see it as less safe. My question is, How is it more safe? What's now making it more safe? Supervision? We had supervision. Capital? We had capital. Resolution? We had resolution. What's different about this? Complexity, less complexity? No. Better capital standards? Marginally, temporarily. What's better about it? You have to be able to tell someone what's better about it.
Q: You have said before it's inevitable we will have another crisis. What do you see as the next pockets of systemic risk?
HOENIG: You've got people who are in high regulatory positions today. You have legislators that are in key positions today talking about competitive disadvantage with other parts of the world. Therefore, we have to ease up on our rules, because we may be at a disadvantage. These institutions might go overseas. I only wish we worried about manufacturing the way we do with these financial institutions. We are already backing off our standards.
Q: Given what we know and what you've been through during the last financial crisis, will regulators be able to catch the next crisis, whether its five, 10, 15 years down the road?
HOENIG: It would be the first time in history. I would be very, very impressed.
Q: What's the problem?
HOENIG: Look it, I've got a crystal ball on my desk. It doesn't work. I can't predict the future. I can say I see the risk. I see the conditions in place. Zero interest rates, a very extensive easing of monetary policy, I can see that and those create conditions for credit bubbles. Now, it doesn't mean you are going to have a credit bubble, but they create the conditions. But everyone says, 'I don't see it, so therefore don't interfere with it.' Then the crash comes. No one wants to believe there is a systemic problem, so therefore there is no systemic problem until there is, and that's human nature. You can put all the systemic risk commissions in the world in place, they're human beings.
Q: Given that, what should regulators be focused on?
HOENIG: What regulators should do is regulate, supervise. I'm sorry; I'm not a strong stress test guy. I'm an examiner guy. I want to go in and look at the books. I want to test their systems. I will tell you on Basel III, Basel II you cannot rely on the institution to tell you the truth. Because when things get tough, when the market starts to fall, they can't because it puts them out of business. That's why you have examiners. You have to go in and say, 'I want to crack the books. I want to follow this loan. I want to verify the collateral, the quality of the collateral. I want to test it.'
Q: Do you think regulators had their hands off the wheel when it came to supervision ahead of the crisis?
HOENIG: I think they were operating under the misperception that they could judge risk by looking at process and procedures from a distance rather than hands on.
Q: Does Dodd-Frank put the pressure on regulators to provide tougher supervision?
HOENIG: That's the irony. Yes, it does. Yet that's one of the backlashes. Bankers are saying, and legislators are saying, over and over again, that the examiners … over reacted. They're too tough. There's no forbearance. There's no understanding. There in lies part of the issue. If the loan is a bad loan, it is a bad loan. I can't make it good for you. What they really want is time to see if they'll turn around, and I understand that. But when things go bad, then the examiner, the supervisor is chastised for not being tough enough as we were for the time leading up to the crisis. As a mentor of mine said, 'You're in a business where there are no successes, there are only failures.'
Q: Who said that?
HOENIG: Bill Taylor. [former chairman of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. and former director of supervision at the Federal Reserve Board]
Q: What will it mean for the future of the banking landscape if the economy does not recover as robustly as we hope?
HOENIG: The greatest threat to the banking system is concentration in banking in this country. It's not the economy itself; it's the fact that we have fewer and fewer banks allocating resources in this country. Even as late as the 1980s, you had as many as 14,000 banks in every community. Now, we have 6,500 and it's shrinking.
Q: On the dividend issue, banks appear to be in a tough spot in wanting to make capital distributions to demonstrate to their market signs of health.
HOENIG: Paying out your earnings is a sign of health? It's a subterfuge. Strong banks can pay dividends. Strong companies pay dividends. If they're strong and have capital, fine. But 4% capital is not strong. 5% capital is not strong. 6% capital is not strong. 8% is marginal in my opinion based on history. So, why should they pay dividends until they get their capital where it should be? I'm the taxpayer; I don't want to pick up their mistakes again.
Q: Does the Fed's stress test impact the market, and perhaps create some volatility?
HOENIG: The only way it would create any volatility is if the companies can't pass the stress test. If they can pass it, what's the problem? They should be celebrating.
Q: How far has the Fed come in providing transparency to the market?
HOENIG: I think we have gotten better, and I think we need to get better still. But, and I think the best way to do that, and this is because I have a bias, is to allow dissent among members of the committee. I think that would actually bring confidence to the market. The Supreme Court has 5-4 decisions all the time. It's healthy. We should have the same thing. I think it would inform the pubic as to what the issues are and what the different views are.
Q: You've been depicted as key dissenter on the Federal Open Market Committee, having dissented eight times. Are you comfortable with that characterization that's been now associated with your role as Fed president?
HOENIG: That's what I'm there for. I'm not there to validate someone else. I'm there to vote my conscience based on the facts that I know and the experience, which I might say, is extensive. So why shouldn't I vote my views? My duty is to the country, my duty is to the people, and I'm going to carry out my duty.
Q: Are community banks in for a bumpy ride as a result of Dodd-Frank despite lawmakers' attempts to preserve them?
HOENIG: Yes, they are. It's unavoidable. It's a complicated piece of legislation with many, many, many parts. It's a training challenge for our examiners; therefore it will be challenge for the bankers. The community banks don't have a cast of lawyers. They have to deal with this, and they have to get through it. It will encourage exit from the industry, and therefore encourage further concentration of resources.
Q: You have some strong points of view on interchange. Tell me more about that.
HOENIG: We've gone to a regulated price, which is absolutely not going to work. Because whenever you regulate prices you game it. Who knows what the right price is? That's beyond our skills. That's what markets are all about. That's why we believe in markets in this country, and yet we are abandoning the market. The alternative is for the Federal Reserve structure — not the Board of Governors, but the 12 banks — to continue to be part of the payments system as they are in checks. Instead of requiring mandatory price controls, you say debit cards have to be decoupled so you can pick any exchange that is a merchant can go across Visa, can go across MasterCard, or can go across the ACH, or some other. The Fed, like it does with checks, has to recover its costs and return on equity that's comparable to the industry's moving average
Q: Does the fault lie with Congress in the way it drafted the legislation?
HOENIG: I think it was everyone's fault. I think it was the industry's fault. I think it was legislator's fault. I think it was the Federal Reserve's fault.
Q: Do you think there's a chance to work on a proposal that you've suggested?
HOENIG: There's always a chance. There's always an opportunity. But that would be up to the Congress of the United States. Right now, the law is the law, and we have to follow it.
Q: Any plans to go to Washington?
HOENIG: If the right job is offered.
Q: There happen to be a few openings.
HOENIG: There are quite a few openings, but I'm not sure. I made it very clear I'm willing to serve. I have quite a lot of experience I can offer.
Q: Do you think you'll write a book?
HOENIG: People have asked me that. We'll see.
Q: That's a yes.
HOENIG: No, no, no I don't know if it would serve a purpose, and I'm trying to figure out who would read it.
Q: What are you going to miss the most?
HOENIG: Arguing with people. [Laughs] For all of its change and all of its flaws; it's an institution of integrity. I have strong differences with, but it's still the best institution, and I've enjoyed every minute of it and I hope I've contributed to it. I've never held back with those I disagree with.


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The sun is staying out longer each day, which tells me that summer is undoubtedly approaching. The day we leave is getting closer and closer. Most of the time, I feel enormous excitement. However, today as I write lesson plans for the end of the year, I am feeling the finality of my time as this school I have come to love dearly. Thoughts enter my mind, stinging me with their words.
This will be the last time I teach that class.
You better sing that song one more time before you leave.
That will be the last activity of the year.
I think of the incredible moments I've had with these students throughout the years, watching them grow and learn. There are several that have been in my Spanish classes for five years now. I remember one girl coming to class as a squishy, adorable five-year-old. She sat on the carpet around the "picnic blanket" and shyly chose the foods she wanted on her plate in the best Spanish she could mimic. I see her now in a higher level class, practicing conversation, verbs, grammar, etc. Another student was new in 2nd grade. He came with his quirky personality and I wasn't sure how to reach out to him. I got the feeling he didn't love learning Spanish. Now he's in my highest level, one of the strongest students in the class. When he heard I was leaving, he make the joke, "Now we're all going to take French because Spanish isn't fun without Kimber!"
I will miss their lovely faces, their energy for learning, and the laughs we share together in class. These will be my last months, days, and classes with them. As I reflect on these moments from the past, I am sincerely grateful for the time we've spent together.


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Advances in photonics research with applications touching nearly every aspect of life will draw 17,500 scientists and industry leaders to SPIE Photonics West to San Jose, CA, U.S., from Jan. 24-29, 2009. Photonics West addresses experts in biomedical optics, lasers, MOEMS/MEMS, and optoelectronics. The week-long event offers research presentations, two exhibitions, industry executive panels, a continuing education program, a career fair, and numerous networking events. Both exhibitions and panels are open to registrants at no charge.
Panel topics include:
- Silicon photonics and optical interconnects
- Hot markets in photonics: solar
- Perspectives on the world of photonics
- Applications of high-power solid state lasers
The exhibition will include more than 1,100 companies showing the latest in components, systems, and applications for optics and photonics manufacturing, electronic imaging, infrared sources and detectors, optical detectors, fibers and materials, cameras and displays, and other innovations.


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Cooter, take note: leaning AND a knee down.
Very enjoyable if not a bit rusty. Really like the Pirelli tires.
Oh, that's just mean !
Way to go outthere. Looking good! I know what you mean about rusty, after these last 3 months it takes a calm first session to shake it off and git on down wit da git down Which Pirellis? The new TD? I just put a brand new Q3+ on the front of the EBR tonight so Willow springs next weekend will be super fun.
I'm just so happy with the Dunlops I really don't feel the need to go softer Q4 or slicks and have to buy tires more often, lol.
But you're not, muahahahahaha.
I need to take care of these, they are rock hard (like me) but my last set
Tires are Pirellis latest SC's. Its a good street tire not track specific. I get 4 good days on a rear and the front should last through 2 rears. First time on the bike since November but it was like putting on an old shoe. Bike still amazes me how easy it is to ride. Keep in mind this is the newest bike I've ever ridden. The next newest was a 87' GSXR. I'm not A fast as I'm not in good enough shape to keep speed for an entire session. The biggest issue I face in B group is folks who apply brakes way to soon.
Last edited by outthere; 05-28-2020 at 01:30 PM.
A lot of my buddies use that SC and swear by it, on the street too. I'll probably try them out, once my front/rear replacement gets back in sync We aren't nearly done for this year and it's gonna be HOT in the desert.
I with ya, outthere. I feel I'm a solid mid-B pack guy. I can be consistently passing guys on corners, or get blown away by KTM 390's when it's a race weekend, haha. No trophies for track days!
It was in the high 90's Sunday. I retrospect I should have drank more water. The next tire I may try is the Bridgestone
Thats the hardest line to balance on, haha. It was 99* at Chuckwalla. Drink just enough water to hydrate (more than you think), but NOT enough to have to piss every hour and have to find the bathroom in your sweaty full leathers


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What would it look like? What would it feel like for animals to want to save and care for us the way Dame Daphne Sheldrick did with African elephants? Would we even know it was happening if the animal wasn't a dog, a cat, a horse, or a beloved farm animal?
2 thoughts on "If Animals Loved Us This Much"
Why would any wild animals be so silly as to want to save us and care for us?
We've done nothing for them except kill them – and so successfully they'll all be gone soon.
Wild animals everywhere would rightly dance with with joy were we suddenly to disappear.↓


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Book week activities: Award winning author visit
On Wednesday 1st March, we are looking forward to welcoming Mini Grey, author of The Adventures of The Dish and the Spoon, Traction man is here and Biscuit Bear to school. All of the children will be involved in a session and signed books will be available to buy .
Year 3/4 Football competition
Some of our year 3 and 4 children participated in a competition at Wantage Leisure Centre on Tuesday 22nd February. The children were really motivated and excited to represent the school.
Prayer Space
We were incredibly fortunate to have a Prayer Space in school during the week before half term. This was run by Reverend Gill, members of our local community and Bespace. All of the children thoroughly enjoyed it and found it an incredibly calming and peaceful experience. Thank you to Reverend Gill and his hard working team.


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Flickr CC/Meal Makeover Moms
Flickr CC/Meal Makeover Moms
This hearty Farro recipe is great for Rosh Hashana. Leeks, squash, and dates incorporate some of the holiday's traditional Simanim.
2 cups cubed butternut squash
1 cup diced leeks
1 5 oz box Pearled Farro (Pereg brand comes recommended)
2 1/4 cups water
Olive oil
Kosher salt
Silan Vinaigrette:
3 TBSP Silan
2 TBSP Olive oil
1 TSBP red wine vinegar
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
This recipe was provided by KosherMoms.Com in conjunction with Pereg Natural Foods


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If you remember this photo I have posted long long time ago… back in 2015 (end of the year) if I am not mistaken. This is the beginning of me falling in love into Diamond Drills set. Yeah, I chose Frozen design because back then, I would like to give it to Amani as her birthday present.
However, making it would not as easy as peanut! Took a lot of times and efforts to 'drilled' the diamond onto the chart. There were thousands of them, with colour codes and patterns.
So on and off I was struggled hard to finish it. Finally, early of this year I have completed the Frozen Diamond Drills. Phew! Yeah, that was a big PHEW! from me. Hahaha. 😂
This is my satisfaction.


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by Matt Slick
This article is generated from the article "Air Force cracking down Christians" written by Todd Starnes, published on September 6, 2013.
"A 19-year Air Force veteran who was relieved of his duties because he disagreed with his openly gay commander over gay marriage is now facing a formal investigation..."1
Master Sgt. Philip Monk told Todd Starnes of foxnews.com the story of how he was relieved from his position because he didn't agree with his commander's views on gay marriage. As a result, he is now facing a formal investigation and a possible court martial.
"'In one of her first meetings with Monk, the commander expressed concern about the chaplain who would deliver the benediction at her promotion ceremony. She said she wanted a chaplain but objected to one particular chaplain that she called a bigot because he preached that homosexuality is a sin,' Monk said."2
Master Sgt. Philip Monk is not the only one who is being persecuted in the Air Force.
"Steve Branson is the pastor of Village Parkway Baptist Church, about five miles from the Air Force base. He tells me [Todd Starnes of foxnews.com] that as many as a half dozen of his church members are currently facing persecution on the base for their religious beliefs."3


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Sorry! This item is unavailable.
Valentine's Day Great Crested Newt Card
Printed A6 card featuring a digital illustration two loved up great crested newts. Card is blank inside and comes with a brown recycled kraft envelope.
This card also comes packaged in a biodegradable wrapper made from potato starch - this can be composted or put in your normal rubbish bin where it will break down naturally.
Protecting nature and the natural world is very close to my heart and, therefore, I have now switched to plastic free packaging. All orders will be sent in either a cardboard envelope.
Shipping & delivery
This item will be posted to you by Silverpasta within 3 days of receiving payment.
|Shipping destination
|Additional items
|United Kingdom
Italy, Greece, Cyprus, Germany, France, Spain, Finland, Belgium, Portugal, Poland, Ireland, Sweden, Denmark, Netherlands, Austria, Latvia, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Isle of Man, Jersey, Guernsey, Gibraltar
|United States
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Returns Policy
You have 14 days, from receipt, to notify the seller if you wish to cancel your order or exchange an item.
Unless faulty, the following types of items are non-refundable: items that are personalised, bespoke or made-to-order to your specific requirements; items which deteriorate quickly (e.g. food), personal items sold with a hygiene seal (cosmetics, underwear) in instances where the seal is broken.


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Nissan advertising, marketing campaigns and videos
A collection of the best Nissan creative work, such as advertising, marketing campaigns and videos.
Starbucks "Thank you for wearing a mask" by Iris
Now that masks are mandatory in UK retail spaces, Starbucks wanted to promote mask wearing as an altruistic and community-focused
McDonald's "Welcome back to the 90s" by Leo Burnett London
McDonald's is rolling the clock back on pricing thanks to the government's Eat Out to Help Out programme.
NCS "Life after lockdown" by Karmarama
NCS enlisted poet and director Caleb Femi to create a visual manifesto for the future of "Generation Lockdown".
Barclaycard "A homemade film" by Droga5 London
Barclaycard enlists Stephen Graham to coach customers through their personal finances.
Cadbury "Freddo Treasures: Space Series" by VCCP
Cadbury Dairy Milk launches its Freddo Treasures range into space.
Heineken "UCL | The wait" by Publicis Italy
Heineken pays tribute to the brave and creative footie fans who soldiered on and tried filling the gap left by
Three "Keep on connecting" by Wieden & Kennedy
Three celebrates the unique and novel ways that people are continuing to connect through their phones and laptop screens.
Global Action Plan "Breathable billboard" by Wonderhood Studios
Global Action Plan, the charity behind Clean Air Day, has launched a "breathable billboard" with flowering lungs to visualise local
Coca-Cola "Open like never before" by 72andSunny Amsterdam
Coca-Cola enlisted spoken-word artist George the Poet for a campaign marking the cultural significance of the coronavirus pandemic.
Public Health England "Better health" by M&C Saatchi
Public Health England is on a mission to quash adult obesity during the coronavirus pandemic.
Campaign Jobs
Account Director - FMCG Packaging £46000 - £50000 per annum mustard md, Bath
Senior and Principal Medical Writers – London or Oxford to £65k + great benefits Fill Recruitment, London (Central), London (Greater)
Senior Account Director £60,000 - £65,000 plus commission & comprehensive benefits package, including unlimited paid leave Profusion, Shoreditch, London (Greater)
Senior / Performance Marketing Manager Competitive salary + benefits Harper Collins Publishers, London, UK


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User talk:Pinsplash/Early July 2018 hacking incident
From Valve Developer Community
One question
Why? 404 User Not Found (talk) 08:29, 6 July 2018 (UTC)
I suppose I should provide more than just one word; why give any attention at all to the guy in the form of documentation of what he did? Also glad to see I wasn't the only one who e-mailed Valve (though I shot an email off to email@example.com and posted to /r/valve about the maintenance downtime). But yeah, why give him this attention? 404 User Not Found (talk) 08:31, 6 July 2018 (UTC)~~
- Shit, I just realized that by making that reddit thread, I gave him attention too. IGNORE ME! 404 User Not Found (talk) 09:01, 6 July 2018 (UTC)


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You are currently browsing the monthly archive for October 2009.
I've got to admit that I've been caught up in the aftermath of the UT-Alabama game last Saturday. Kiffin keeps popping off at the mouth and like kids following the piper the UT faithful are right behind him.
The coach of the Volunteers seems to be the definition of immature. He doesn't like it when he doesn't get his way and he's going to make sure that everybody knows it. Ghostofneyland said it best when he stated, "Kiffin felt he needed to stand up and say something…" I believe that is the majority of Kiffin's problem; he just can't keep his mouth shut. He always feels he needs to say something, even when he would be better served by remaining silent. Maybe he is smarter than he looks and this is all a part of a master plan. If he keeps the hopes of Vols inflated with close wins and promises of what will be, they'll be patient with him until he does win. I think it may even be working. From my brief observations the Big Orange Nation is too busy crying foul and lauding what will be to reflect on the actual record.
The down side to all his talk will be that his timer will run out much quicker. If the promised wins don't come soon – I personally believe that he can't back track to Georgia next season and needs to beat either Alabama or Florida or natives will start getting restless.
Right after the game I spoke with a great Tennessee fan. She didn't tell me that UT could have or should have won, she didn't say that the penalties (or lack of) or the headset malfunctions or even their lack of comparative talent cost them the game. She just said it was a great game. She was absolutely right. She was the gracious fan that Kiffin must feel he can't afford to be.
I've been through two truly awful streaks in my time pulling for Alabama. The seven years to Tennessee and the six to Auburn. The worst part of those was the feeling that it might get worse before it got better. The 365 days until our teams would meet again would be long but the possibility that a talent or coaching gap would make it longer than that was the really scary part. UT fans probably feel right now that in fifty-one weeks this wrong can be righted. Hope is better than the absence of it. Despite the fact we Alabama fans would prefer them dejected the Volunteers lost a game but gained some faith. In that at least, Kiffin did a good job.
This certainly isn't a defense of Kiffin; I believe he's a whiny douchebag whose eventual downfall is as certain as the enjoyment I'll derive from its occurance. But Lane did help to give my favorite rivalry in the world a shot of Jaegarmister this weekend. Sitting on the good side of a three-year streak I think that is a pretty good thing. I thank him for that.
This past weekend was what college football is all about to me. I was thinking going in that Alabama was a much better tean than Tennessee and that I would be dissapointed with anything less than humiliation of the hated Vawls from them. I was wrong.
The elation I experienced in the moments following the blocked kick as time expired was as euphoric as every win I've ever experienced as a fan in this storied series. It's games like this that make the rivalry so great.
Now that I am somewhat rested the focus of my brain (and liver) has shifted to something other than clearing alcohol from my system. Some thoughts:
- This was the first game all year that left me feeling there were things to worry about. After watching the replay yesterday I feel better about that. Granted, the offense has to improve, but despite the fact that this one came down to the wire, Alabama did the things it needed to do to win. They aren't perfect but they are a complete team.
- They win. That's the major difference in Alabama and Tennessee right now. It wasn't to long ago that Alabama did not know how to win.
- I was convinced that McElroy stunk it up Saturday after the game. Part of that was carryover from the South Carolina game and part of that was the idiot behind me in the stands screaming about open receivers. After the replay I feel better about him. He didn't do things to help us lose the game, which is an improvement. Obviously he needs to improve but I'm confident that he can. The thing that crossed my mind was maybe the speed of SEC defenses have sped the game up for him and he's rushing his decision making and therefore his execution. Hopefully, the game will slow down for him and he'll be fine. I'm confident that he can lead this team but we need to see improvement every week.
- This has been stated ad naseum in the last thirty-six hours but the bye week comes at a great time. Rest and focus should do this team wonders.
- The series of events that had to take place for Tennessee to have a chance to win this game was just amazing:
- The most sure handed rusher in the conference fumbles a ball.
- Overcomes a sack for a big loss of yardage to keep a drive alive.
- Score a touchdown against a team that hadn't given up one in almost twelve quarters.
- Recover an onside kick.
- Move the ball enough to set up a field goal to win the game without a time out.
Simply amazing.
- You could argue that UT did enough the rest of the game to be in position to win and I don't know that I'd disagree. Still, in the stadium until around the two minute mark, I never felt like UT had a chance to win. As successful as the Vol offense had been and as good as Crompton was, there was a point on every promising drive that the worn out Alabama defense emphatically shut the door. The final three minutes contained all the drama.
- Deserve has nothing to do with this game. This UT team still has a ways to go to be competitive every week. Sometime mediocre teams play great games against better competition but I've never felt this was a true indicator of a team's progress (as Lane would have you believe). The measure in this sport is not total yards, first downs, or time of possession. It's wins. This UT team is 3-4. That's not very good.
- Keeping on the same theme, this situation reminds me of Alabama and LSU in '07. The Tide took LSU to the wire and lost after leading most of the game. They felt good about themselves and then threw all that promise away in consecutive weeks (against Mississippi State, La-Monroe, and Auburn no less). This is not a prediction, but the Vols need to focus on South Carolina this week, and not what they did or almost did against Alabama. Another Vol loss this week (and more the rest of the way) will not surprise me at all.
- Lane Kiffin needs to shut the hell up. Obviously, I'm not a fan, but this is ridiculous. He's already calling for the victory next year and and whining about headsets and penalties like it was a conspiracy that kept his team from winning. I loathe people that place blame on anyone but themselves for thier situation. Lane seem like the poster boy for that. Your team did a lot and I mean a lot to gain respect from at least this Alabama fan this week. Kiffin stuck a pin in that balloon real quickly with his big mouth. Just be quiet and let the team make the statement for what you're doing.
- When is someone going to start the Kiffin promise board. He's making promises more quickly than a politician – which he reminds me of. He's saying all theses things that his fans want to hear but he isn't really following up on them. I'll start the check list: "… not getting recruits from Memphis (OK, that was Thompson, but he's writing checks on Kiffin's account) -not happening. "Sing Rocky Top all night after beating the Gators" – didn't happen. After he's finished promising all the losses from this season that are supposed to be wins next year UT should run the table by his estimation.
- Tennessee played a great game. They were well prepared and played very physical football for sixty minutes. Unlike the last two years, they never gave up in this one. My credit is worthless, but they were a more impressive product than I have seen in a while from the boys in orange. The single biggest superlative for this team is its tenacity.
- I always look forward to and enjoy this game every year. There was. however, a perfect storm of events that made this one extra special:
- Weather that proves God loves college football
- My friends Chris and Steve flying in from Albuquerque and Denver respectively keeping a string of twelve consecutive years where we all attend a game together going.
- Chris and Steve bringing their fraternity brothers Justin and Seth with them for the second time. These guys are southwest guys with no ties to Alabama other than friendship and have become big fans – they love the experience of southern football.
- Getting to meet and hang out with three folks I like and respect from the internet all in the same day: Holly, Doug, and later Clay Travis. Good folks all.
- The game itself. Obviously.
- Finishing the night doing shots with a former professional baseball player who was in town for the game. (and who was an all-around good guy).
Like the team, I need a bye week. I'm going to focus on work, flag football, and hopefully a little rock climbing before the team hits the field again for a huge matchup with the Tigahs.
Nine months after my last post, almost exactly two years after my first post, and the week of one of the absolute best things about college and Alabama football seems like a pretty good time to try out the internets again. So here I am.
In way of a brief explanation, as I shared with you about this time last year, my last official gig ended and I went out on my own. Things are going relatively well on that front but running a business is incredibly time consuming. Also, last winter I became a dad again (for the third time) and lack of sleep coupled with increased duties with the other two take up a lot more time. Finally, Alabama had a pretty good year last year and my level of contentment with "the process" allowed me to focus on other outlets. I do this because I enjoy it and it fills a creative need but lately when the desire to write struck there seemed to be something else that "needed" to be done. I realize my tiny voice is one that is easily lost in the din but I do appreciate all the inquiries into my whereabouts. Thanks to you all.
So, I understand there is a game this weekend. What's going on with that?
- Tennessee wants to wear orange. While Saban tends to say things like jersey color don't matter – and they don't – I'm not at all surprised that the request was denied. Of course the Vols are going to say we're doing the fans a disservice, but the fact remains that a.) Kiffin raided the coaching staff, b.) said coach has been lying to recruits, and c.) this is still Tennessee. So screw UT. Why extend to them any courtesy at all other than letting them have a locker room? They wouldn't, and haven't done the same for Alabama. I understand from off-the-record comments that Saban is not a fan of the Volunteers and I believe that the way Alabama has been prepared to play, and has executed against UT in his tenure lends that some credence so it makes sense that UT was not granted the concession. I say no quarter asked or given in this rivalry. They'll probably end up in those gaudy orange pants anyway. Orange sucks, people! (Update: As usual, the guys at Bama Sports Report put it into perspective)
- McElroy Struggling. G-Mac has, without a doubt, had two bad outings (against competent defenses) after some pretty good outings (against less than stellar defenses). I'm not ready to bench him though. I'm not even ready to verbally abuse him by comparing him to other, less-than-good quarterbacks, like another Alabama blog writer who tends to overuse the word "nevertheless" and speaks of the team in the first-person. I don't think McElroy was quite as good as the early season success showed, nor do I think he is as bad as his last outings would indicate. Despite Monty Kiffiin's (bow in awe, people) vaunted defense I think we'll see a little more regression to the mean this week. Meaning we won't see as much forcing to Julio, a little more Colin Peek and Marquis Maze, and a steadier reliance on play-action. McElroy will be alright. Aight!
- Tennessee Overall. I'll preafce by saying this: anything can happen. Anything. UT could come in here and play the game of the decade and beat Alabama. But it isn't very likely. This is not a good football team and there is no way around that. Tony Barnhart called this out as a trap game in the summer. But part of his premise was that UT would be winless in the conference. As you all know they aren't. Beating a dreadful Georgia team hurt them more, in the context of this weekend's contest, than anything. There wasn't much chance that Alabama would overlook this UT team anyway but the big win in Knoxville ten days ago only served to make sure everyone was paying attention. As Mike Strange points out, UT's first half body of work doesn't look near as good as it did. SEC Offenive Player of the Week aside, Crompton is not a good QB and the Alabama defense should make that very evident. Hardersty is a great back, but Alabama's run defense is no slouch either. The defense's ability to nuetralize Crompton and make the game one-dimensional should effectively negate Hardesty (and super-frosh Bryce Brown as well). Things get a little more dicey with Alabama's offense versus Tennessee's defense. While statistically, they are a good defense, Auburn – yes the same Auburn that was just run over roughshod by Arkansas and Kentucky – lit them up like a Christmas tree. As I said, anything can happen, but if Alabama holds onto the ball and McElroy takes just one step back towards averages, we should be singing "Rammer Jammer" by mid fourth quarter.


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I've been playing musical 3DS since we got a New Nintendo 3DS; yes that's what it's called simple but effective I think. Transferring from one 3DS to a new one should actually be a really simple task, Nintendo have made it really straight forward. Unfortunately when you're a family of 5 all of who play the DS at varying regularity the lines of ownership can get blurred. Officially speaking the original 3DS belongs to Master E, the 2DS is mostly Madam's and the special edition gold Zelda 3DS XL is Daddy's! I wasn't sure exactly who the New 3DS was being allocated to but I loosely wanted to transfer most of the things from the 2DS but the original 3DS is getting difficult to charge and may need replacing soon. Finally I noticed that somehow E had added his Nintendo ID to his Dad's 3DS XL which may be about to cause trouble!
It was an awkward puzzle because Nintendo Network ID, Console, contents of Sim Card and Shop purchases are linked; they may all be transferred easily straight over to a new console. Sadly you can't combine two on to one which is what I really wanted to do. This makes sense because it stops the sharing of files and downloads but in this instance was frustrating. Eventually I moved E's original console over to the New 3DS and his cheeky takeover of his father's on to his original 3DS. The new 3DS has a MicroSD so you will need to use a PC to transfer SD files instead of just moving the SD card from one console to another but this is very straightforward and the New 3DS comes complete with the 4GB MicroSD.
The New 3DS is quite significantly different from our original 3DS and I don't have the previous one to compare side by side, they're less strikingly different however the small changes make quite a big difference. Obviously the main feature of all 3DS consoles is the 3DS display that doesn't require glasses to view. Every time I look at the 3DS I still can't quite believe how this works; as an 80's kid it reminds me that I really am living in 'the future' now! I love the novelty and play all my games this way and on the New 3DS the 3D capabilities have been improved – the console tracks the angle you're watching from and adjusts the 3D accordingly!
Alongside these very clever technical changes that speed up the load times, increase brightness of the screen and allow you to transfer data wirelessly are some wonderful aesthetic changes. Probably the most noticeable and one of my favourite are the SNES style coloured buttons. These arrive with more buttons for greater control – there's a C-Stick and ZL & ZR buttons on the back beside the standard L & R ones.
The final and fantastic feature of the New 3DS are interchangeable cover plates which remind me of the snap on covers you used to get for Nokia phones. Both front and back change so currently my all white New 3DS is instead wearing a bright and bold Mario cover. Currently there's a selection of character and game covers in the Nintendo store and having spotted the special edition Majora's Mask 3DS XL I'm really looking forward to seeing the what cover plates are released in the future!
Whilst playing my game of musical 3DS transfers I made the mistake of having a look at Tomodachi Life – this game is so addictive! In this game your Mii characters live and interact with one another and I turned it on to see the daily newsflash on Madam's island. The dry humour in it actually made me 'LOL' and I couldn't resist a look around. It's easy to get the hang of collecting money and meeting your townspeople's needs, making sure they're fed and decorating their rooms. This is exactly the sort of game I do flick on occasionally in the evening because it is so simple and you can pick it up and put it down as quickly. It doesn't take a lot of thought which I find relaxing and is about organising and improving which I think I must have slight OCD for – I really like this game!
E & T are either playing Super Smash Bros or Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal. I must admit to being a little clueless about Super Smash Bros but they obviously adore this game and regularly have to be dragged off. It is all about battles either as a team or against one another which is always better than them battling for real which is done with an army of characters. Some of these characters are locked to begin with which I know because unlocking one creates enormous noise and excitement! This is of course the game they can interact with their Amiibo figures in – this involves "battling them to level them up and increase their skill" these were E's exact words to which I nodded and smiled. They don't need plugging in, you tap them on the WiiU or New 3DS (which they're compatible with) and suddenly they're transported into the game world – this is so scarily sci-fi to me I usually just watch and wonder what on earth my 10-year-old self would have thought!
Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal is much more familiar to me, it uses all the characters and mostly buttons I'm used to so I can pick it up and have a turn without making a complete fool of myself. It is a platform, puzzle game which at times the children find a little difficult and pass over to Daddy. He doesn't mind the problem is trying to get it back because this is definitely his sort of game. There is a lot to each level and you can as E does, hurtle through or as Ant does go for skill or enjoy collecting things which Madam loves. Some of these collectibles work somehow in the Wii U game by transferring them wirelessly putting us again slightly outside of the gaming realm I know but the children are absolutely thrilled by these clever touches!
~ As Nintendo Family Bloggers we were gifted the 3DS, all thoughts are our own. ~