text:
My Love Affair with Barbecue: A Chronology
Note: In preparation for the upcoming 4th of July holiday, we're proud to announce the launch of BBQ Week. Starting today and running through the holiday (okay, so it's really more like BBQ Week-and-a-Half, but bear with us—there's a lot of smoked goodness to get through), we'll be celebrating all things barbecue and barbecue-related, from recipes to frontline reports from the best pits in the country. To start things off, our founder and overlord Ed Levine waxes nostalgic about his lifelong love of barbecue. Take it away, Ed. —The Editors
1962 As a New York City area resident, I understood barbecue as a verb. My father would grill or barbecue a steak on Sunday nights, and outside dish was a pizza from Cairo's. The meal was sheer pleasure, if not exactly food pyramid-friendly, and I believe our Sunday night summer ritual was a formative experience for my taste buds. To this day, grilled steak and pizza, especially now that Kenji has shown us how to make serious steak and pizza at home, are two of my favorite things.
1969 The next step in my barbecue development was the realization that there really is such thing as barbecue, the noun. That took place in 1969, when I was living with my brother and sister-in-law in Los Angeles, and we discovered a barbecue joint on Pico Boulevard in Pasadena, and perhaps more memorably, the Texas-style barbecue at Gadbury's in Watts, near the USC campus downtown. I believe Gadbury's is still standing.
Fall 1969-Spring 1973: In non-barbecue (the noun) country in Grinnell, Iowa, my friends and I, under the influence of various substances both legal and illegal, would barbecue (grill) pheasant shot by our crazy friend Wilbur Wright. The pheasant was mighty tasty, even when grilling it in sub-freezing weather (I told you there were illegal substances involved), though the residue of blood and guts in our kitchen sink after cleaning the pheasant was perhaps less appetizing.
1971 Over one college summer San Francisco that I spent not working but making a little money as a bowling hustler, we ate real barbecue at a joint right near the San Francisco Zoo. For the life of me I can't remember the name of the joint, but I certainly recall the taste of the smoky ribs and the meaty beans.
1973 Moving to New York after college and experiencing the barbecue wilderness that was NYC at the time, I consoled myself with barbecue from Singleton's and Sherman's, two of the last barbecue joints in Harlem. When my friend Lolis Eric Elie was researching his definitive barbecue book, Smokestack Lightning, he discovered hundreds of listings for barbecue joints in NYC in the thirties. How Harlem was reduced to a precious few barbecue joints by the time I got there in the mid-seventies was and is a complete mystery to me.
1975 In the mid-seventies a Jewish dude who went to school in North Carolina opened Smokey's on 9th Avenue. His pork shoulder tasted good—even great, at the time, but really I have no strong taste memories of it. He later relocated to Amsterdam Aveue. Smokey's was followed by Stick to Your Ribs, opened by a British fellow named Robert Pearson who in his past life worked as a hairdresser to stars like Twiggy. His was the first true Texas barbecue, made in a wood smoker, that I had tasted. His other innovation: constructing his barbecue sandwiches on Portuguese rolls from Newark. Genius!
1980's The eighties were my formative barbecue years. When I was working for Nick at Nite in advertising, we did focus groups in Kansas City. Faced with the prospect of eating normal focus group fare (M&Ms, pretzels, peanuts, etc), I decided to spend a few hours following the Calvin Trillin Kansas City food trail and bring the fruits of my expedition back for my fellow focus group attendees. Yes, they thought I was nuts, until they tasted the Arthur Bryant's spread I brought to the antiseptic focus group facility in suburban KC: burnt ends, brisket, ribs, beans, and slaw. (And for dessert, Winstead's doughnut twists.) People who attended those focus groups don't remember anything we learned about Nick at Nite and its viewers, but they can recall every single bite of dinner. Now that's what I call real focus group learning.
Around the same time, while in Chicago on MTV business, I had a cabbie drive me to legendary south side barbecue joint Lem's. The African-American cabbie insisted on parking the cab in the Lem's lot and coming in with me, telling me it wasn't a safe place for a white guy to hang out at 10 at night. Really I think he just wanted some barbecue, which was probably the best non-monetary tip he'd ever received; Lem's ribs and rib tips were and are legendary. A tip I learned much later from a fellow Lem's customer is to order the ribs "cut to the bone," which yielded more eating pleasure because the ribs could be separated from one another quite easily. Otherwise, it's not easy to eat an entire rack of ribs with a plastic knife in a parking lot leaning on the hood of a car without just gnawing and passing.
1990-present: The first big let's-show-New-Yorkers-every-barbecue-style-available-in-this-country-joint was Virgil's, opened in Times Square by the noted late restaurateur Artie Cutler in 1994. But it was Danny Meyer and Kenny Callaghan, working with the great southern Illinois-based pitmaster Mike Mills, who really solidified the barbecue craze, first with Blue Smoke and then with Big Apple Barbecue Block Party.
Dinosaur Barbecue, Hill Country, and Daisy May's and Rub quickly followed. They all make (or made) serious delicious things, going more for the global BBQ approach than slaving to one specific style.
In the 21st century Brooklyn's DIYers started getting down with barbecue. Fette Sau, Fort Reno, Fatty 'Cue, Mabel's, Fletcher's, and BrisketTown ushered in a new wave of Brooklyn Barbecue. Queens is in on the game, too, with Butcher Bar, The Strand, John Brown Smokehouse, and Alchemy, Texas (formerly Ranger Texas Barbecue) all vying for barbecue supremacy. The one new barbecue joint that suggests a New York aesthetic while still paying homage to Texas traditions and techniques is Mighty Quinn's, whose pitmaster Hugh Mangum might be the most talented pitmaster we've ever had in this city.
There are some things you can't get here. I've had friends send me burnt ends from LC's in Kansas City, pork shoulder from Big Bob Gibson's in Alabama, brisket from Black's in Lockhart, Texas, and sausage from South Side Market in Elgin. Because as good as barbecue has gotten in NYC, sometimes the only way to get some of the best stuff is to get it straight from the source.
Why do I love barbecue so? Because at its best, it is simply one of the best things you can put in your mouth. It has everything I look for in food: a nice crust on the outside, tender and smoky meat, and the right combination of meat and fat. I also love the fact the barbecue is so much a function of place. It is the original locavore food, even though now you can seemingly get any style of 'cue from any part of the country, everywhere. Lastly, I love the people and the pitmasters I have met around the country who are smart, dedicated, incredibly passionate about what they do, and like nothing better to tell you about what they're doing and how much they love it.
So whether you're grilling something Josh Bousel or Kenji came up with this 4th of July, or going the extra mile and smoking your meat in a fancy pit or a Weber Kettle; whether you're barbecuing, the verb, or making barbecue, the noun—or even getting some barbecue shipped to you from someplace that you can't live without for another moment, grab yourself a beer or two, rustle up some friends, crank the music, and start the story telling. It's all good. Barbecue (the noun or the verb) is some of the glue that keeps all of us connected.
All products linked here have been independently selected by our editors. We may earn a commission on purchases, as described in our affiliate policy.


text:
Magistrate considers Nagin's bid for report
Former New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin has asked a federal magistrate to order prosecutors to turn over a copy of a report on alleged prosecutorial misconduct before Nagin's trial on bribery charges begins.
U.S. Magistrate Alma Chasez didn't rule on Nagin's request during a hearing Monday. But she expressed skepticism that the former mayor is entitled to the report, prepared in a separate case by federal prosecutor John Horn.
Nagin lawyer Robert Jenkins argues it wouldn't be fair to try his client without more information about Horn's probe of anonymous online comments posted by at least three federal prosecutors.
Nagin was the subject of anonymous posts by prosecutor Sal Perricone, who was a top deputy to former U.S. Attorney Jim Letten.
Nagin's trial is scheduled to begin Oct. 28.
Judge denies request for Nagin trial delay
Gov't moves to block indefinite delay of Nagin trial
Feds: Nagin shouldn't be able to question prosecutor conduct at trial
Sign up for our email newsletters to get breaking news right in your inbox. Click here from your desktop computer to sign up; on our mobile website, use the drop down to the right to "Get Email Alerts."

subset: commoncrawl


text:
American Legion National Commander James E. Koutz expressed frustration after Wednesday's announcement from the Pentagon that something has to give – either troop numbers or weapons development – in the face of federal budget cuts brought on by sequestration.
"It's a bad choice either way," the leader of the nation's largest veterans service organization said. "We cannot forfeit our national security at a time of war against terrorism, and our national security depends on superior weapons as well as enough troops to operate them. A weakened military will not solve our nation's economic problem."
Automatic cuts imposed to ease the federal deficit – termed "sequestration" – call for the Department of Defense to chop $46 billion out of its budget this year. If sequestration is not lifted or modified, the defense budget would continue to be reduced by $500 billion over the next decade. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel's prediction of the Pentagon having to make a choice between troop strength or modern weapons was the result of a newly completed DoD planning exercise called the Strategic Choices and Management Review.
In organizational meetings last fall, The American Legion National Executive Committee adopted resolutions opposing cuts to the wartime defense budget as a measure to reverse the federal deficit.


text:
Humping cars is a bit of a tradition around here. We can't help it. If something exciting catches out eye, we've gotta express it. How badly do you want to hump the 2014 Corvette? We're betting really badly.
Welcome to Morning Would, where we present you with some of the most desirable, controversial cars ever built and ask what you would do to drive one.
Our answer? We may or may not have already humped it. (We did.)


text:
Do you participate in such normal-people activities as having sex and "being startled?" If so, your brain is about to explode.
According to Health.com, a new study shows that eight ordinary pastimes can increase the risk of brain aneurysm (that's a "balloon-like swelling in a brain artery that results from a weak spot in the artery wall"), which in turn can cause a stroke, which in turn can cause death. Curious about what you're doing that might give you a deadly brain balloon? Here's the list:
- drinking coffee
- exercising
- blowing your nose
- having sex
- pooping
- drinking cola
- getting mad
- and, my personal favorite, "being startled"
I'm pretty startled just from reading this, so I've probably just upped my aneurysm risk. But it's okay — most aneurysms just require periodic monitoring. And doctors aren't going to tell us to stop doing normal stuff — says Dr. Neil Martin of the UCLA Stroke Center, "We don't tell patients to stop having sex or having bowel movements or exercising." So keep right on pooping and fucking, but every time you do so, just remember that you're slightly increasing your risk of fatal brain bleeding. Now calm down, you're making it worse.
Coffee, Exercise May Raise Stroke Risk For Some [Health.com, via CNN]
8 Everyday Events May Trigger Brain Bleeds [ABC]
Image via Danomyte/Shutterstock.com


text:
A new piece of digitally signed malware that targets Mac users has been discovered. The new malware, which has been dubbed OSX/LaoShu-A by Sophos and is considered as bot, is being used in an "undelivered courier item" email campaign which tries to trick users into downloading the malware as they try to see the description of an alleged undelivered parcel.
In this particular case the email explains that the undelivered item contained some documents which have been scanned and are waiting for the user to inspect them. A link is provided which takes the unsuspecting user to a fake courier website (often a clone of a real courier website like FedEx or DHL) and then proceeds to download an attachment. If the malicious website detects that the web browser is running on Windows then a piece of malware called Mal/VBCheMan-C is downloaded.
However for Mac users a .zip file is downloaded containing an application that looks like a PDF document. OS X will automatically unzip the file and leave the application in the Downloads folder. The app icon has been intentionally given the PDF icon to trick users into thinking it is a PDF document. However when clicked it will install the malware. Because the application is digitally signed OS X won't produce a warning about the application coming from an unknown source, but rather it will only warn the user that it has been downloaded from the Internet. Although the warning does actually say "application" rather than "document" the dialog offers the user two possibilities to Cancel or to Open. The use of the word Open by Apple rather than Run can leave the user with the impression that they are opening a document.
According to Sophos OSX/LaoShu-A is a bot and takes commands from a C&C server, however its main function appear to be data stealing as it will search for files with extensions such as DOC, DOCX, XLS, XLSX, PPT and PPTX and try to upload them to the C&C server. However it can also download new program files and execute shell commands which means it will basically be able to do whatever the attackers tell it to do.
In conclusion, don't click on random links in unsolicited emails especially those with good link bait like the undelivered courier item emails.


text:
Play Bridge!
The Thursday Club has several different Bridge Groups that meet throughout the year.? All members are invited to participate in any of these groups.
>> Learn more.
Join a Book Group!
All members are welcome to attend and participate in one of the two Book Groups that meet monthly at the Clubhouse.
>> Learn more.
Have fun with us!
Our Contemporary Interest Group sponsors several special presentations and outings throughout the year, which are open to all Club members.
>> Learn more.
cá độ bóng đá có thắng được không
The La Ca?ada Thursday Club is a social, cultural and philanthropic anization which was founded in 1912 to reach out to the community to assist charitable, non-profit groups and to further youth in their education.


text: Here I am sharing some of my early experiences in Programming. When we write code for any application, generally we concentrate on Business Logic and different features available to meet the Business Logic. Whatever applications we are working on, we are ultimately playing with data .The placeholder for the Data is the variables/fields/properties, etc. When we are declaring data type for a variable, generally we don't give much emphasis at that point. Here some points we need to take care


text:
'American Horror Story: Coven,' 'Witches of East End' cast their spell on TV viewers
When Jessica Lange, who plays a "Supreme" witch on "American Horror Story: Coven," butts heads with her estranged daughter (Sarah Paulson), she does what any snarky mom with mystical abilities would do: She issues a threat.
"Don't make me drop a house on you," she hisses.
Ah, there's nothing like a blast of wry witch humor to keep viewers spellbound.
Get used to it. This fall has become the season of the witch on television, and not just for Halloween. Magical sorceresses and she-devils are everywhere, from the latest version of Ryan Murphy's "AHS" scarefest on FX, to the new Lifetime series, "Witches of East End."
Witches also play prominent roles on "The Originals," where they're waging war with vampires. There's a Salem-era witch on the breakout hit "Sleepy Hollow," and this weekend, Catherine Bell brings her charm to the latest installment of Hallmark's "The Good Witch" movie series. There's even a new "Sabrina" cartoon for the kiddies on the Hub network.
So why the sudden uptick of toil and trouble? These days, viewers are obsessed with supernatural shenanigans in general, explains Julie D. O'Reilly, author of "Bewitched Again: Supernaturally Powerful Women on Television, 1996-2011." And it just makes sense that witches get their moment in the spotlight.
"The genre goes through cycles," she says. "We've obviously gone through an extensive vampire cycle, and we're not out of it yet. We've had some werewolves and zombies and some reinvention with those characters. Now we're finally getting back around to witches."
Tim Minear, an executive producer for "Coven," thinks audiences are drawn to witches in much the same way they're attracted to superheroes.
"On some level, we wish we had superpowers," he says. "And like with, say, 'The X-Men,' everyone can relate to feeling like an outsider, and we all have a longing for a family or a tribe. Add some special power into that mix and you've got something."
Witches on the small screen are nothing new, of course. Ever since Samantha Stephens began twitching her nose and making life difficult for a couple of mortal Darrins, numerous female spell-casters have come and gone, from the quirky Sabrina Spellman ("Sabrina, the Teenage Witch"), to the increasingly dark and powerful Willow ("Buffy the Vampire Slayer") and the Halliwell sisters of "Charmed," right up through the witches who haunt "True Blood," "The Vampire Diaries" and other shows.
For O'Reilly, Elizabeth Montgomery's Samantha of "Bewitched" fame is still the leader of the pack.
"She was TV's first featured female character with powers, and she remains the archetype for all the witches who have followed," she says. "Even though the show was campy and corny, it was ahead of its time in that it depicted her as the strong one and Darrin as the bumbling one. She was the backbone of the family in a lot of ways. She had the power in the relationship and was the one who made things happen."
With casts dominated by women of various ages, "Coven" and "East End" continue that feminist bent, but they do so in dramatically different ways. "Coven" is intense, scary and occasionally disturbing. "East End," based on a best-selling novel by Melissa de la Cruz, is relatively light and romantic, with some occasional shudders tossed in.
Both shows, however, avoid depicting witches as what de la Cruz describes as the "hag with the poison apple."
"You don't see any old ladies living alone with cats," she says. "These witches are much sexier."
Set in a secluded Long Island town, "East End" centers on the adventures of a mother (Julia Ormond) and her two adult daughters (Rachel Boston and Jenna Dewan-Tatum) - both of whom are just discovering they possess witchy powers because mom had chosen to keep that little secret from them. Now that a sinister shape-shifter has arrived to terrorize them, the siblings must band together and learn their craft at a highly accelerated pace.
De la Cruz, who spent much of her career writing about teen characters, says "East End" represented a chance to combine her love of the supernatural with a desire to focus on strong women in a family setting.
"I wanted to make a statement about female power and sisterhood and motherhood," she says. "But then I had to decide what and who they are. Witches, of course. Broomsticks and potions and curses and magic spells? What's not to like?"
"Coven," meanwhile, is set in New Orleans and weaves a complex tale about supernaturally gifted debutantes at a finishing school for witches. How gifted? One young student, played by Taissa Farmiga, can actually kill men simply by having sex with them.
In this crazy-scary world, which also features Kathy Bates and Angela Bassett as devilish dames, witches are facing extinction, thanks in part to escalating attacks on their kind. Lange plays Fiona, an all-powerful sorceress who steels her girls for battle.
"When witches don't fight, we burn," she insists.
"Coven," explains Minear, represented a chance to take the "AHS" anthology series in a wildly different direction.
"In the previous two seasons, we were finding a strong, almost feminist, undercurrent to a lot of what we were doing. (And) going back to even something like the original 'Halloween,' with Jamie Lee Curtis, modern horror is often about female power fighting back. That, along with the astonishing women we'd collected, made it seem perfect."
And downright bewitching.


text:
House Clearance WD23 Bushey
Having your house part or fully cleared out is our high demand service, our junk & old furniture disposal is a big part of our House & Flat Clearance WD23 Bushey Service.
Quick Guide For All WD23 Bushey House Clearances.
We are able to remove any unwanted furniture, junk & rubbish you have in your home, our WD23 Bushey house clearance team will arrive within a 2 hour window,so you are not waiting in all day, once at your house they will begin the removals of all unwanted furniture from all rooms that require clearing in the property as well as bagging up any smaller junk items & clutter from any where in the home, from books to pots and pans, we also clear all electrical appliances, fridges & cookers.
Basement Cellar & Attic Clearances in WD23 Bushey.
If you have a attic or basement that requires a clear out, we will remove all unwanted rubbish that has been stored, as part of our WD23 Bushey rubbish & junk disposal service. Our House Clearance team in WD23 Bushey will empty the attic space or cellar from all loose rubbish that needs removing, we are able to go up a ladder to gain access to your loft, to carry out the removal, so leave the loading to us as this is part of what we do.
Garage Clearances in WD23 Bushey.
Our team will remove all unwanted junk from your garage in WD23 Bushey, we clear old lawn mowers, furniture, loose wood, old builders materials, old electrical appliances and what ever needs clearing from the garage, we do not clear liquids such as oils & paint, but will clear anything else that needs throwing out.
Our Promise To You.
We are fully licensed waste carrier and can clear any waste in the home legally.We price check on a daily basis, and can offer you the best price in the industry so you can rest assured you are getting the highest level WD23 Bushey house clearance service at the best price, call us on our freephone no 08006129477 for more information or to book a part or complete house clearance WD23 Bushey.
House Clearance WD23 Bushey
House Clearance in London. The on demand junk clearance service. With our household waste removal service we can have your home cleared at short notice, no matter how much bulky waste you have to clear.
Flat Clearance WD23 Bushey
Flat clearance London, we clear any flat that requires to be part or fully cleared of unwanted old furniture, white goods, electrical waste & household junk from any floor in your home.
Furniture Disposal WD23 Bushey
Furniture disposal London, For old sofa, chairs, tables, beds, mattress, chest of drawers and all other unwanted household & commercial furniture for removal & recycling.
Garage Clearance WD23 Bushey
Garage Clearance in London. With our waste removal service, we can have your garage cleared the same day or at a scheduled time, even if you've let years worth of junk and rubbish build up.
Cellar & Loft Clearance WD23 Bushey
Cellar and Loft clearance London. They're great places to store your old goods, but when you leave your old waste and rubbish too long, pests and dirt can take over. If you need a waste or junk removal service in those harder to access areas, our cellar and loft clearance teams can help.
Rubbish Removal WD23 Bushey
Rubbish Removal London. sameday or scheduled rubbish removal and waste clearance from our man and van teams. We do all the work for you whether you need to clear out a room in a flat or a full house clearance. Majority of the waste clearance and rubbish removal service we provide is recycled.
Sofas, Cupboards, Kitchen Sinks, Mattresses, Desks, Wardrobes, Bath Frames, T.V's, Desktop Monitors, Freezers, Fridges, Cookers, Ovens, Extractor Fans, Kitchen Cupboards, Microwaves, Skirting, Window Frames, Wallpaper, Builders Waste, Cushions, Garden Benches, Garages, Dishwashers, Washing Machines, Bathroom Sinks, Chairs, Armchairs, Kitchen Stripping, Bathroom Stripping, Office Stripping, Garden Chairs, Carpets, Rugs, Floor Tiles, Wall Tiles, Laminate Flooring, Consoles, Console Tables, Gaming Chairs, Printers, Bikes, Radiators, Conservatories, Conservatory Furniture, Bed Frames, PC's, Sound Systems, Dining Room Chairs, Dining Tables, Cabinets, Chests of Drawers, Mirrors, Bedside Tables, Garden Benches, Kitchen Lighting, Blinds, Curtains, Doors, Coffee Tables, Lamps, Kitchen Tables, Shelves, Tables, Office Chairs, Book Cases & Windows, and more…
If you do not see the prices you require listed on our website contact us today. For bespoke pricing and an accurate cost click here for a quotation.


text:
Avon Barksdale wrote:Oh man, I'm sorry don't take this personal, so many people just don't get it.
These people who you call "liberal" which includes a good chunk of people who live in west coast urban environments encompassing Hollywood are actually some of the least tolerant people you're ever likely to find anywhere in the world. Yeah, they're accepting of gays, and drug use, and whatever else. You know what they are not accepting of? Anyone at all who dares to disagree with them. Just witness the kind of shit that the Prop8 protesters were pulling, vandalising Mormon churches, intimidating black and latino neighbourhoods which were mostly in favour of Prop 8. Check out someone like Hayden who, hot though she is, makes completely brainless political statements and pours the hate on everyone who disagrees with her. She's just a kid too, they get 'em young, with both political messages (schools have basically become indoctrination centres) and race imaging;
The only shows I can think of off the top of my head that got regular Asian guy characters in them are Heroes and Lost, and no one watches NBC so Heroes doesn't really count, and of the 4 characters, 3 of them are playing foreigners. There are more Asian women, but typically they all either mysteriously don't know a single other person of their race or got really oppressive parents. Oh yeah, I remember Dexter has Vince who is usually in it. Well, except in the wedding scene which every single other frakking person in the cast was in.
Sean Penn is a fucking asshole. I really can't stand that sanctimonious fuckwit. Let me tell you about people in Hollywood. They're paid to look good and pamper themselves. Not just the actors and directors, pretty much everyone who lives in that world connected to celebrity. They don't live a real life! They can hardly be called real citizens and they do not have realistic views of their country. They'd rather save a rain forest than save a country.
Black people are doing better in Hollywood because as an entire group they get their rage on when they are disrespected, even if there's little to no basis for it. The Asian American community hasn't followed suit, they've been mostly content to slide into the background and get fucked in the ass by white rule.
M.Night Shyamalan directed the film but he doesn't appear on screen. I'd guess the average person doesn't know what he looks like. Yeah, yeah ok I know he's actually always making appearances in his own films but no one really pays attention to some one minute cameo. Ang Lee has made like hundreds of films and I still got no idea what he looks like. If it wasn't for the name and me thinking hm, that's an odd name, sounds east-asian, I wouldn't even know he was Chinese. I didn't know who Shyamalan was until Unbreakable came out and someone said it by the same guy who did Sixth Sense.
You're right, I don't get it. I don't get what you're saying when you say the, "protestors of Prop-8." Because you just lumped pretty much every person who agrees that gays should be able to marry in this radical anarchist group of protestors. Some people burned mormon churches or attacked Latino's and blacks you say, but is that all of them, or even most of them? I for some reason doubt the majority of people against Prop-8 destroyed and vandalized anything they came across that was disagreeing or working against them. There are radicals everywhere and for every reason. They are the only ones that made the news during prop-8 because most news stations are conservative. They don't want gay marriage. Just because you see a couple celebs ranting about things they don't understand doesn't mean that is how they all are. Like, you don't know any of these people yet you say things implying you do just because you see how the news portrays them or what movies they are in.
You say celebrities don't live a real life. I don't get that. They aren't humans capable of rational thought and forming their own opinions? They just support things well... Because? How do you know this? I would love for you to tell me about Hollywood, have you been there? You must know a ton of execs, actors and shit because of the way you write so passionately about their beliefs (or lack thereof).
So, saving rainforests, part of the lifeblood of this planet is not in a way doing a service to your country? I believe celebs get involved in these political things because they know their voices will be heard and they can affect things to the point of change. They probably know that if they get out there to support what they believe, their fans will listen.
Plus, it is just funny that you're fighting for Asian rights, when you basically just said they are content with what they have... Why fight their battle for them, no one did that for Martin Luther King or Malcom X, or Ghandi. Where the fuck is the Asian rebellion? From what I have read, the only dominant Asian counties in the U.S. are in Hawaii, making it near impossible to do anything but waste your time and breath. Until America becomes a place with a thriving Asian population, it is going to be impossible to cast accordingly.
And the kid that plays Aang looks exactly like the cartoon character. My chinese friend, who is a huge fan of the show is just completely excited for the movie. She tells me I have no idea how excited she is and she has everything Avatar from stuffed animals to bonus DVDs, etc. Why can't people just see past the race and appreciate the story? That is what I am going to do.
And answer me this: If being a celebrity isn't a real life anyway, why do you want Asians to be a part of that lifestyle?


text:
Not everyone knows it, but most Americans use biofuels to help power their car or truck every day. Using biofuels we produce here at home creates jobs, raises incomes for farmers, and saves us all money. The ethanol mixed into the gas we buy at the pump saved American drivers almost 90 cents per gallon last year.
Moving forward, we'll see Americans running their cars with more biofuels mixed into the gas – like E85, a mix with 85 percent ethanol. And USDA will help install thousands of new pumps at gas stations so drivers can pick the sort of fuel they want.
And it's not just car and truck owners who can benefit from renewable biofuels. Biofuels can be used in all sorts of engines and planes are getting into the act as well.
This month, two major U.S. airlines flew the first commercial passenger flights powered by biofuels, including a cross country flight from Seattle to Washington DC. Airlines are looking for reliable, affordably-priced fuel. They hope that using biofuels will limit the impact that unpredictable gas prices have on their bottom-line, making them more profitable while also limiting their impact on global climate change.
Passenger and cargo airlines in America spend about $50 billion on fuel each year. If just a fraction of those billions are used to purchase American-produced aviation biofuels, we'll create thousands of good-paying jobs, particularly in our rural communities. That's why, earlier this month, USDA announced support for a facility that will begin the process of turning algae into jet fuel and create 60 jobs.
What's more, USDA has made important investments on aviation biofuels research and development to help universities and private firms expand and improve production. And we are partnered with the Department of Energy and the U.S. Navy to work towards using biofuels in our military planes and strengthen our national security.
In the years to come using new sources of renewable energy to fuel our cars, trucks and even our planes will be a game-changer: reducing the influence that foreign nations have in setting our fuel prices, driving economic growth, and creating jobs across the country.
You can find the audio version of the weekly message here.


text:
Mild-mannered garden-shop owner Peggy Lee often finds herself investigating mysteries, but at least in Perfect Poison she's now a contractor for the Charlotte Police and will get paid for her troubles! Peggy starts her day at a funeral and ends up using her new forensic training at the scene of a seemingly-accidental drowning. She gets her second case a few days later, and this one seems hinky from the start. Why would a woman who drowned in a Charlotte-area swimming pool have wild, lake-growing plants on her body? As accusations cast suspicions on a friend and clues reveal similarities in the two deaths, Peggy tries to solve both cases and struggles to keep her shop open. Fans of the previous Peggy Lee Garden Mysteries will recognize familiar characters in this fourth book, including Peggy's boyfriend Steve, son Paul, and the mysterious Nightflyer.
Check this title's availability in the UNC-Chapel Hill Library Catalog.


text:
Canadian musician/producer Devin Townsend (STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, STEVE VAI, LAMB OF GOD, DARKEST HOUR, GWAR) will release "Deconstruction" and "Ghost" — the third and fourth in a series of albums to be made available under THE DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT moniker — in Europe on June 20 via InsideOut Music.
"Deconstruction" and "Ghost" will complete his tetralogy album concept — a great journey through Devin's different states of musical moods — which he started in 2009 with the albums "Addicted" (2009) and "Ki" (2009).
Even though "Ghost" is the fourth album to be made available under THE DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT moniker, Devin recorded it third, because "Deconstruction" (the third album) was "a nightmare technically and I wanted to make something lovely before diving into that," Devin previously said.
According to Devin, "'Ghost' is the mellowest (by far) and prettiest record I've done so far" with a "very wonderful vibe."
Townsend tapped Jens Bogren (OPETH, KATATONIA, PARADISE LOST, BLOODBATH) to mix "Deconstruction". The sessions took place late last month at Fascination Street studio in Örebro, Sweden. The CD will feature a guest appearance by former EMPEROR frontman Ihsahn (real name: Vegard Sverre Tveitan) as well as two drummers — Ryan Van Poederooyen (TERROR SYNDROME, THE DEVIN TOWNSEND BAND) for the "crushing stuff," and Dirk Verbeuren (SOILWORK, SCARVE, ABORTED) for the "inhuman stuff."
Devin previously described "Deconstruction" as "brutal in a lot of parts, but pretty glorious in others. It rides the fence of negativity but ultimately ends supremely positive."
Devin Townsend recently confirmed via Twitter that he will tour the U.S. with CHILDREN OF BODOM in June.
Townsend has announced the first two special shows in U.K. for November 2011 for a unique DVD recording.
On his currently ongoing and mostly sold-out European tour, Devin is already performing some of the new material and if you have followed Devin through his career, you will know that he is always up for pushing the limits to higher levels. After finishing the tour at the end of March, and after releasing "Deconstruction" and "Ghost" in June, Devin Townsend will return to London U.K. in November 2011 to play a set of very special shows dedicated to his four-album concept and which will be captured live on DVD!


text:
Business Center
When you're a road warrior FNT helps you focus on the tasks at hand. We understand it's not always easy to take that work trip. That's why we've equipped our terminal with work office essentials. Flint Bishop's Business Center (and the entire terminal) has free Wi-Fi, copier service, work stations and plenty of electrical outlets. We also have conference rooms available for rent if you'd like to host a meeting with clients.
Work still needs to be done when you are away from the office. Our Business Center offers travelers the opportunity to catch up with the day's responsibilities in a quiet, workable surrounding. It is free to use the business center.
- Copier Service
- Work Stations
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Electrical Outlets


text:
I picked up a new class this year. Actually I was cajoled into taking a ICT class in exchange for one of my Planning 10's. "Come on Keith your will be great! Besides you love techy stuff don't yah?" Although I couldn't argue the point, it was still a new course and I didn't really know what was involved.
As any wily teaching veteran would do, I held off on committing to take the class until I checked out the IRP. (Integrated Resource Package) Once I had ferreted out a dusty old copy from the depths of the Tech office, I was perturbed to find that it was a 2003 version so I did what I should have done in the first place and went to the net and looked for something that had been written post Windows XP. As you have probably already guessed, the most recent version IS the 2003 version. In tech years, 2003 was a millennia ago. Essentially were still pounding out school work on stone tablets back then.
Taking a quick look through I wasn't very inspired.
- Microsoft Office (my grandmother uses Microsoft Office)
- Web publishing tools (Could you be a bit more specific?)
- Video editing (I thought that was film and TV)
However, I did see some mention of programming, some image editing and a few other snippets that lent me hope. I knew if I stuck with all the Prescribed learning outcomes, it would be a PAINFUL year for everyone involved, so I went down to talk to the all mighty and powerful people and said… "Sure, I will take ICT IF I don't have to follow that IRP to the letter!" To which they said… "Giddy up!"
Now you may be wondering what qualifications do I have to be teaching ICT and my answer is… None! Sure I am a tech geek but I haven't taken any formal training in anything. Actually that is not true. I did take 4 weeks of first year computer science before I dropped it but that was in 1990 and in tech years, we were still killing wooly mammoths with our bare hands back then.
What I am familiar with is how to build websites for personal and retail purposes, how to optimize websites to be search engine friendly and I have a great deal of experience using and hacking the appearance of WordPress Sites. I also have been using Adobe Photoshop, Dream Weaver & Fireworks for a number of years as well. How this makes me worthy of being an ICT teacher, well that may be up for debate but it gave me enough of a leg up to say "YES! I will teach ICT"
Although I felt confident to take on the class, I realized that the kids I would be getting were going to be light years ahead of me in many respects, in one area especially. Coding!
Regardless of my inadequacies in this area, I still wanted to make coding a major part of the course because coding is all the rage these days and all the cool geeks are doing it. This is where Open Learning comes in.
The only way I could provide kids with any sort of learning experience around coding was to utilize the wealth of Open Learning resources available on how to code. I realized from the get go that there was no way I could learn this stuff and turn around a try to teach it day in day out, so I resolved to just set them loose.
For me this was unnerving. This would be the first time in 17 years where I have not been dishing out the information the kids needed to know and god help me if things went sideways.
Now, three months into the year, my role has become more of a director of resources. If a kid needs help and I can't answer the questions, I find another kid who can. I find and present to the kids learning resources and opportunities which they can utilize to enhance their own self-directed learning. At times it feels like we are moving a little fast and loose but the kids always seem to be on task, get things done and enjoy what they are doing. I have yet to have any eye rolling or groaning, I never have any absentees, they are all in class on time… It is a remarkably efficient classroom. Having said that, I am sure things will now go to hell in a hand basket.
What I do find myself doing as a "teacher" is trying to get the kids to think about what it is they are doing. What are the ramifications of the app you want to develop, the image you have created or the digital footprint you have made? So many of these kids view what they are doing with or on a computer as isolated events. Rarely do they think about the social ramifications of their digital creations or actions. To combat this blinder effect, I will take a class every couple of weeks and look at the social consequences of what we create using technology.
This little experiment has made me realize that I may no longer have control of the content but I do have control of the context. The traditional sage on the stage approach gives the teacher the power / responsibility to deliver content and context all at once but with open learning, context can be glossed over by the learner or is missing entirely from the content. Therefore, it is incumbent upon the teacher to frame the individual learning within the appropriate context.
These past three months have reinforced with me that Open Education in the absence of a living breathing teacher will be doomed to failure or at least can't be considered "education" because without the teacher it is just information. As I come to the end of this post and this course, I leave you with an article that appeared in the Washington Post by Larry Cuban, that makes this point very well: The technology mistake: Confusing access to information with becoming educated
Keith Rispin


text:
Patriarch Ignatius of Antioch and All East laid to rest in Damascus
The memorial service for Patriarch Ignatius of Antioch served on Sunday, 9 December 2012, at Saint Nicholas Cathedral church in Beirut
Officiating at the funeral service in the Cathedral of St Nicholas the Wonderworker in Beirut were His Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, His Beatitude Archbishop Chrysostomos of Cyprus, and His Beatitude Archbishop Anastasios of Albania. Taking part in the funeral service were also delegations of the Local Orthodox Churches, led by Metropolitan Nicholas of Hermopolis (Patriarchate of Alexandria), Metropolitan Benedict of Philadelphia (Patriarchate of Jerusalem), Metropolitan Stephan of Tsageri and Lentekhi (Patriarchate of Georgia), Bishop Antonije of Moravicí (Serbian Patriarchate), Archbishop Casian of Lower Danube (Romanian Patriarchate), Metropolitan Ioannis of Langadas (Greek Orthodox Church), and Bishop Irénée of Quebec (Orthodox Church in America).
The prayers included Paschal hymns, according to the tradition of the Antiochian Church, and were said in the Arabic, Greek, Church Slavonic, Serbian, Georgian, and Romanian languages.
Present in the Cathedral were also Mr. Michel Suleiman, President of the Republic of Lebanon; Mr. Najib Azmi Mikati, Prime Minister of Lebanon; heads and representatives of non-Orthodox confessions; H.E. Mr. Alexander Zasypkin, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Republic of Lebanon; other members of the diplomatic corps, accredited to Beirut; numerous clerics and laymen of the Patriarchate of Antioch; and public figures of Lebanon and Syria.
After the funeral service, His Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, His Beatitude Archbishop Chrysostomos of Cyprus, and His Beatitude Archbishop Anastasios of Tirana and All Albania addressed the members of the Holy Synod of the Antiochian Orthodox Church with the words of condolences over the bereavement that has befallen the Church of Antioch.
Then the funeral procession with the coffin of the departed Primate of the Orthodox Church of Antioch left Beirut for Damascus. The procession included the members of the Holy Synod of the Orthodox Church of Antioch. On Monday, December 10, the ever memorable Patriarch Ignatius will be buried in the sepulchre of the Antiochian Patriarchs, located in the territory of the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Assumption, in the historical part of Damascus.
Source: mospat.ru


text:
Saints draft Texas S Vaccaro in first round
The New Orleans Saints have selected Texas safety Kenny Vaccaro with their first-round pick in in the NFL draft.
The selection of the 6-foot, 214-pound Vaccaro on Thursday night, at 15th overall, gives the Saints greater depth in the backfield of a defense that ranked last in the NFL last season, giving up a single-season record 7,042 yards.
He will compete for playing time behind starting safeties Roman Harper and Malcolm Jenkins.
Vaccaro made 92 tackles and two interceptions last season, when he was credited with seven passes defended. In 2011, he was widely believed to be a candidate to leave Texas early after being named first-team All-Big 12. That season, he had 67 tackles, including 6 1/2 for losses, two interceptions, and was credited with seven pass breakups.


text:
The White House yesterday claims to finally have decided to meet with US automakers in a meeting that's been scheduled and re-scheduled and now re-scheduled yet again, this time for after the mid-term elections. The boys n' girls at the center of the beltway finally confirmed to the Detroit News yesterday that "the White House and the Big Three automakers have agreed that it would be best to meet after the election." This comes later in the day after Michigan Guv Granholm urged Bush to:
"take some time this Friday to meet with our auto leaders to learn first hand about their efforts and how even a minimal amount of federal attention will help sustain this vital link in America's manufacturing economy."
Wethinks maybe the automakers shouldn't count their chickens before they've, you know, met with them — this meeting's changed more times than we can count. And although the White House is trying to make it seem like they're not playing politics by not meeting with the traditional Big Three automakers — the fact they're setting the meeting for after the mid-terms is, in and of itself, playing politics. Course, he'd be happy to sit down with them this Friday — just make the check out to "The National Republic Caucus."
Bush, Big 3 to sit down [Detroit News]
Dan Howes: "Top GOP Leaders To Big Three: Drop Dead"; Breaking! Prez Bush Sez Not Snubbing Big Three, But No Meeting's Planned [internal]


text:
Conjugation of sapere (to know) in Italian
Private lessons, group classes, tutoring and language courses (A1, A2, B2, B2, C1, C2)Sign up
The Italian irregular verb sapere means to know.
|Egli / ella
|Essi / esse
|ho saputo
|hai saputo
|Egli / ella
|ha saputo
|abbiamo saputo
|avete saputo
|Essi / esse
|hanno saputo
|Egli / ella
|Essi / esse
|avevo saputo
|avevi saputo
|Egli / elle
|aveva saputo
|avevamo saputo
|avevate saputo
|Essi / esse
|avevano saputo
|Egli / ella
|Essi / esse
|ebbi saputo
|avesti saputo
|Egli / elle
|ebbe saputo
|avemmo saputo
|aveste saputo
|Essi / esse
|ebbero saputo
|Egli / ella
|Essi / esse
|avrò saputo
|avrai saputo
|Egli / ella
|avrà saputo
|avremo saputo
|avrete saputo
|Essi / esse
|avranno saputo
|(Che) io
|(Che) tu
|(Che) egli / ella
|(Che) noi
|(Che) voi
|(Che) essi / esse
|(Che) io
|abbia saputo
|(Che) tu
|abbia saputo
|(Che) egli / ella
|abbia saputo
|(Che) noi
|abbiamo saputo
|(Che) voi
|abbiate saputo
|(Che) essi / esse
|abbiano saputo
|(Che) io
|(Che) tu
|(Che) egli / ella
|(Che) noi
|(Che) voi
|(Che) essi / esse
|(Che) io
|avessi saputo
|(Che) tu
|avessi saputo
|(Che) egli / ella
|avesse saputo
|(Che) noi
|avessimo saputo
|(Che) voi
|aveste saputo
|(Che) essi / esse
|avessero saputo
|Egli / ella
|Essi / esse
|avrei saputo
|avresti saputo
|Egli / ella
|avrebbe saputo
|avremmo saputo
|avreste saputo
|Essi / esse
|avrebbero saputo
|Egli / ella
|Essi / esse
|avere saputo
|avendo saputo
I am a private teacher in English, German and Italian. I am a Master's graduate in Translation and Interpreting at the University of Genoa, Italy. I am Italian native speaker. I know English and German at C2 level and Russian at B2 level.
I have been studying English for the last 15 years, first at school and then at the university and I have improved it on my frequent stays abroad. I have now been teaching English for 4 years, first to school children and teenagers and now adults too. I have experience teaching online and at home. I also have taught group classes.
Being fluent in several languages allows me to give students further explainations in their native language when needed. This also allows me to put myself in my students' shoes and understand better their difficulties. I try to meet the student's personal needs and objectives rather than impose my standard class.
During my classes I focus on the active skills of language, speaking and writing. I often ask students to do presentations so they practice writing and speaking at once. I strongly encourage self-studying along with frontal teaching in order to considerably shorten learning time. Homework is for me as important as frontal classes. If needed, I can provide students with textbooks and online material such as videos, news, songs and textes.
Federico C.
Grazie Dan! Teaching you is really fun and our classes go so fast mainly because of you and your commitment. In few months you have already reached a very good level and I'm sure you will improve as fast from now on.
Hi! I've been teaching Dutch, Spanish and Italian for many years, in The Netherlands, for private institutes, for the integration of foreigners into society, and online from Italy, where I currently live.
I will help you, in a simple but effective way, to learn your favorite language(s). By focusing on conversation from the very beginning, I will help you in becoming confident with the language so that you will learn it faster.
Learning a foreign language is not a matter of doing much effort, but rather of being consistent, enjoying the lessons and allowing your intuition to work with you. You will book immediate results while having fun!
I offer you general language courses Italian (A1-C2), Dutch (A1-C1) and Spanish (A1-C1), as well as courses "Basisinburgering" and "Inburgeringsexamen A1, A2".
For English I offer ONLY pronunciation exercises. If you struggle with your pronunciation and you want to become more confident, I can help you achieve your goal. We will practice by reading texts together and you will see amazing results in a very short time.
So if you want to learn a language or improve the one you already speak, whether it is for work, to move abroad or just because you love languages, contact me for a free trial and let me know how I can help you.
I'm looking forward to meeting you!
Elena P.
Thank you for the feedback, Wouter and Eliane! I'm happy to know that you are satisfied with the lessons. I really enjoy working with you and I love to witness your progress, class after class.
Hi everyone!
My name is Daniela and I am a qualified Italian language teacher! I teach Italian and English at school, and Spanish and French as a freelancer. I love foreign languages, translating, reading and listening to music. Are you ready to start your language learning path with me? We are going to learn many things and to talk a lot! Don't worry if you've never studied the language before: everyone can attend my classes – from beginner to advanced students. You just need passion for what you're going to do and... a good Internet connection. Materials are provided by me!
See you online!
Daniela V.
Dear Linda, thank you for your positive feedback. I am very happy that you feel comfortable and this is very important to me. Thanks to you for the great trust :-)
Hello Everybody
My name is Luisa and I teach Italian for foreign students, English, French and German for Italian students
Since 1994, I have dedicated myself to translating and teaching thanks to my travels, abroad studies, foreign reading and writing. I provide fun and customized lessons based on the student's goals. I also triy to minimize English speaking during the lessons. I give homework exercises, and my lessons are intermixed with grammar, conversation, customs and traditions. My goal is to make certain that each student finds learning Italian exciting.
I am available for any explanations also via e mail
Luisa A.
Dear Martin thank you so much ! It's my pleasure taking class with you. And thanks a lot for your suggestion about Us movies ( Just Mercy) or Us books
Buongiorno gente!
Are you ready to learn italian with me?
My name is Mojra and I'm a qualified mother tongue tutor. Whether you need to prepare yourself for a job interview, you're planning to relocate to Italy or to spend your next holiday there, I look forward to assisting you to achieve your goals!
I am here to help you improve you grammar, sentence structure and to teach you helpful phrases in a fun and relaxed way.
I graduated from university majoring in Linguistic Mediation and in Modern Languages and then I specialized in the teaching of Italian as a second language, attending a one-year post-graduate course devoted to this and receiving excellent grades (FILIS: Formatori Interculturali di Lingua Italiana per Stranieri). I also taught in the Italian public schools.
If you'd like to learn Italian fluently, I'd love to be your teacher, then why not book a trial class with me now? In this lesson, we will design a lesson plan especially for you discussing how you will reach your specific goals.
IMPORTANT: Please contact me before booking your lesson with me and let me know your Italian level as well as the reasons why you want to learn Italian.
Mojra G.
Thank you very much for your words Abner! You are a very diligent student, continua così!
Hello! My name is Deborah! I am a language instructor. I teach Italian, English and Bulgarian. I have more than 10 years teaching experience, both face-to-face and online to individual as well as to small and large groups. At the moment I am teaching Italian in a private school in Sofia, Bulgaria- where I lived for more than 10 years. I teach English to students ready to move to English speaking countries for work, and to students who need Еnglish for their career. I also prepare students for exams (KET, PET, FCE, CAE, CPE), and I offer language courses for communication and travelling purposes.
I attended the College (tourism) in Lucca-Italy. I have a diploma in Secretarial and Business Administration from the South Kensington and Chelsea Collage in London- (I lived in London few years ago). I have a TEFL certificate -grade A. and an ECL certificate in Bulgarian C1 with 96/100. Therefore, I have a good knowledge of how languages work and I can provide my students with helpful insight. Teaching is my passion, and I am constantly in search for new methods to help my students to get through the challenges and the difficults when learning a new language.
I am an enthusiastic, dedicated and adaptable teacher. I always use the communicative method in my teaching and I try to make my students feel comfortable by creating a funny and relaxed environment.
I hope to see you soon in one of my classes!
Deborah M.
Thank you!! You have an always positive attitude, you work hard to do a great job!
Hello everyone, I'm Federica and I'm an italian and english teacher. Before being a teacher I've been a student infact I graduated in languages so I know very well how hard can be learning a new language. I'm interested in music, cinema, literature and I enjoy talking about several topics. I've been teaching since 2009 and in 2012 I've qualified as italian language teacher. I've experience with children and adults, with in company courses, with total beginners as well as with advanced. Also I've succesfully prepared a number of students for the most important english and italian certification (CELI, CILS, FIRST, PET, KET). Over the last years I've became specialized in one-to-one or small groups lessons because in this way I can create a tailored programme for each student. I follow a communicative approach and in my classes there's lot of room for speaking but I don't neglect grammar, listening and writing. I provide you with material, sometimes selfmade, other times taken from books, videos, or songs, but always useful to help you to immerse in the target language! At the end of every lesson I always assign homework in order to revise the things learnt. I define myself as a happy, positive and very patient person and I do my best to make the class a funny and relaxed moment. I look forward to meet you online!
Federica C.
Thanks, I'm sure you will improve a lot! :-)
Hello, everybody ! My name is Elena. I'm a native Italian speaker, I'm 49 years old and live in Turin. I graduated in Foreign Languages and Literature in Milan and have been working as a teacher of Italian for more than 10 years. I speak English and German. I attended specialization courses for Italian L2 teachers and I am interviewer for C1 PLIDA exam.
Are you seeking a friendly and dynamic study environment ? I got what you need. I am looking forward to being in touch with new students and organize pleasant, interesting and fruitful courses.
Do you wish to learn or improve your Italian to speak with your parents or friends? Do you need Italian for work or study ? Do you simply love Italian language and culture ? Do you need to improve your writing skills ?
My classes are tailored on your needs and considering your level of knowledge, I create a proper course plan. Classes focus on language and on the possibility for you to improve your ability to speak and understand Italian in your daily life or in work.
I offer 1-to-1 or 2-to-1 tuition, general Italian courses (grammar, conversation, listening, reading and writing), preparation to Italian examinations (all levels, also Italian for residence permit) and Italian and culture courses.
Grammar, vocabulary exercises, reading articles and magazines and talking together are all tools to feel at ease with the Italian language and then be able to practice it.
I have worked with children, adolescents and adults for all levels of Italian, from beginner to advanced. I have experience in preparing students to international certification (CILS, PLIDA). I was an A2/B1 Telc examiner.
Learning Italian can be closely related to culture, literature, music, sport and any other interest of my students.
Elena F.
Thank you very much Daniela. I am very happy to teach you Italian and to be your teacher.
Hi, welcome to my profile!
My name is Alessia and I currently live in Italy. I lived some years in America where I deepened my knowledge of English and American dialects. I am currently specializing in the Spanish and German. In all these years I have given private lessons of Italian, English, Spanish and Japanese, at the moment the most required language. Regarding Japanese, I had the opportunity to experience the teaching of the language in an American College with a native Japanese teacher, implementing the method that they themselves use to learn their language. I will help you in a simple way; conversation is really important to learn a language and even more a good method. No days spent on textbooks are needed, constancy and fun during lessons are the most important part for learning. You will see the results immediately! I am patient, flexible and I will adapt in all ways to your personal needs. I'll wait for you on my profile for the trial lesson and discover an easy and fun method to learn a language as soon as possible.
Alessia T.
Thank you Leandra!
Do you want to learn Italian to know better the Italian culture and enjoy a trip in Italy? Do you need it for your business or to speak with your relatives?
Whatever is your reason in learning Italian I can help you and personalize your lesson according to your needs and interest.
My work as Italian tutor started with my love for languages and for travels. I experienced that learning a new language is a way to know a new culture and to enrich your knowledge of the world.
I started teaching Italian online few years ago. I have a TEFL certificate, and currently teach students from different parts of the world.
Before teaching Italian, I worked for a few years after graduation in tourism.
I believe that the teacher work requires continual renewal and study of new teaching methods is part of my job.
Feel free to contact me so we can tailor your personal lessons.
My name is Alice and I was born and raised in a small village in the North of Italy, near Venice. My passion for languages started at high school, when I learned English, French and Spanish. Then I decided to focus on my second passion, that is literature, so I got a bachelor degree in Italian Literature. After my degree I moved to Berlin, where I learned German for a year. In Berlin I also understood that I wanted to become an Italian teacher, in order to combine my passion for languages with my interest for literature!So I moved back to Venice and now I'm attending a master degree in language sciences with a focus on language teaching, but I'm first of all myself a language learner, as I study German, which I can speak quite fluently now.
If you are looking for a friendly and calm teacher that knows the struggle of communicating in a foreign language, you have found the right person! During my carrier as a language learner, I have acquired some skills that I can teach you, with a focus on overcoming the fear of speaking in a foreign language and I can also help you feel more confident when interacting with Italian native speakers.
I can deal with different topics, but my main interests remain culture, literature, dialects and, naturally!, food.
After a first free trial lesson, in which we would get to know each other, I can offer you a structured learning path, according to your needs, interests, learning objectives and learning style. The lessons will be mainly in Italian, but if some more explanations are needed, I can speak English, German and Spanish as well.
I am a certified examiner for CELI, I can prepare you for this test.
If you are interested or if you have any question, please don't hesitate to contact me, I can't wait to meet you!
Hello my name is Lucia and I am a native Italian speaker.
I have a degree as an interpreter for English and French so I know how hard it may be to learn a foreign language. I work as a free-lance interpreter and private English and French teacher. I have a strong passion for languages which I have been studying for many years. I am studying Spanish now and always trying to improve my English and French knowledge. I am a friendly person and my lessons mainly focus on conversation. As a teacher I am very patient and I always propose tailor-made lessons with respect to your needs. I am really enthusiastic about being a teacher because this activity allows you to share your culture and habits with foreign people. Learning a language is also learning a new culture.
I am an Italian native speaker with a Master's degree in Languages for International Relations. I have experience in tutoring students from all ages.
I prepare tailored lessons based on the students' needs and interests using textbooks, videos, interactive resources and ad-hoc materials.
If you want to learn Italian and know more about the culture, food, art and traditions, don't hesitate to get in touch!
Hello, my name is Francesca.
I am qualified Italian teacher.
I love teaching and my lessons are always tailored on your goals. During the first lesson, we will identify what you want to learn or to improve and I will design your lessons.
My approach is largely conversational: that is role-plays, informal conversation or other activites to help you. I welcome beginners right up to proficient speakers.


text:
Forgot password?
Cotswold Canals Knowledge (CCK) is a hub for information about the Cotswold Canals. The website is interactive and ongoing. We welcome contributions from your current, canal related work and also additions to the community archive.
If you are a teacher take a look at our suggestions for using archive materials in the classroom.
If you would like to contact us please e-mail
Cotswold Canals Heritage > http://www.cotswoldcanalsheritage.org.uk/
Designed and built by Community Sites


text: The scientific seminar dedicated to the memory of Ivan Pavlovsky, the founder of the Poltava Battle Museum has taken place in Poltava. Many local historians including museums' research workers were among those who honored the seminar with their presence. The theme of the Seminar was "The celebration of the 200th anniversary (1909) and the 300th anniversary (2009) of the Battle of Poltava." The participants got a opportunity to become familiar with a few unique documents dated after early 20th century that shed light on the preparation and celebration of the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Poltava. The emperor Nikolaj II and his whole court arrived to Poltava soon after the official visit to Stockholm and this fact is predetermined additional security measures have been taken to enhance the safety of all participants of the celebration. As is generally known, this visit of the Russian Emperor to Stockholm was darkened by the attempt of the assassination of Nikolaj II that took place in Kungsträdgården on June 26, 1909.


text:
See the latest Coronavirus Information including testing sites, visitation restrictions, appointments and scheduling, and more.
Proton therapy is a non–invasive, incredibly precise cancer treatment that uses a beam of protons moving at very high speeds to destroy cancer cells.
Our experienced cancer nurses and referral staff are here to help. Call 800-789-7366 (PENN) or complete an online request.
Learn more about the benefits of translational research at Penn Medicine.


text:
Jamaica Bay and the Rockaways
The Daily Plant : Friday, May 24, 2002
Beach Opening- Saturday, May 25
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., seven days a week
Place: Orchard Beach, the Bronx; Brighton Beach & Coney Island, Brooklyn; Manhattan Beach, Brooklyn; Rockaway Beach, Queens; Jacob Riis Beach, Queens; South and Midland Beaches, Staten Island; Wolfe's Pond Beach, Staten Island.
Come enjoy New York City's seven public beaches this summer now through September 2. Remember to swim only when a lifeguard is on duty.
Artistic Festival- Saturday, May 25
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Place: Marcus Garvey Park
The Harlem Ebony Artist Tribe invites you to its debut event featuring African-American inspired art exhibits, readings, and performance. For information call (212) 666-1071.
Canoe the Crotona Park Lake- Saturday, May 25
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Place: Crotona Park
Get a river otter's view of the City while learning basic canoeing techniques with the Urban Park Rangers. For information call (866) NYC HAWK.
Saturday Nights Live- Saturday, May 25
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Place: Salt Marsh Nature Center, Marine Park
An evening of musical performance, with Jeff Berman. For information call (866) NYC HAWK.
Bike Riverside- Sunday, May 26
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Place: Fort Tryon Park
Experience the parks with the wind blowing in your hair. We break for wildlife and beautiful nature scenes. Bring your own bike, helmet, and water to drink. Meet on the shore of the Hudson River at 125th St. For information call (866) NYC HAWK.
James Pagano
James came to Parks in December 1999, bringing his business research and organizational skills to MIS. Being a self taught graphic designer, he joined the fledgling Intranet Unit in the Fall of 2000, responsible for design and implementation. Working side-by-side with a more seasoned graphic artist, he honed his skills and took over the role of Senior Developer in the Spring of 2001. Wanting to improve the look and feel of the Intranet, he set to work on a total redesign. What we see today on the Intranet front page and many of the resulting pages is a testament to his talents. When a particular division is in need of a logo, icon or graphic, it is not uncommon for them to turn to James. He is now well versed in many graphic tools such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. He is also proficient with HTML and Javascript.
Outside of work, James is an accomplished songwriter and guitarist. He is also interested in photography and photo editing. James makes his home in Flushing, Queens.
(Friday, June 2, 1989)
In its 130-year history, the Central Park Zoo has evolved from a Victorian menagerie to a "picture-book" zoo, and on to a high-tech animal boutique which now features exotic animals from around the world ensconced in simulated natural environments.
To help put the zoo's pedigree in perspective, Parks will present "Creature Comforts: The Evolution of the Central Park Zoo," an exhibition on the history of the nation's oldest municipal zoo at the Arsenal Gallery. An opening reception will be held on June 7 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the gallery, located at 64th Street and Fifth Avenue inside Central Park. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays. The exhibition will be on display through June 30.
"The man who has no imagination has no wings."
Muhammad Ali
(b. 1942)


text:
With LiMo's recent announcement that Verizon had hopped onto their Board of Directors, things are starting to heat up between the LiMo platform and Google's competing product, Android. Both are open-source Linux-based platforms, and both are aiming to rock the handset market sometime in the next year or so.
LiMo is Linux-based. Android is Linux-based. But they're far from the same. Below, I'll try to explain some of the key differences without going too heavy on the tech jargon. (Fiiine. It gets a bit heavy for a paragraph or two. But I'll avoid it where possible.)


text: Re: looking for a soundcard to improve the builtin realtek Reply #25 – 2017-08-02 21:20:54 Quote from: eric.w on 2017-08-02 21:12:46Both of your headphones have fluctuating impedance:https://www.innerfidelity.com/images/GradoSR325e.pdf - (not the exact same model) impedance of 30 ohms, peaking at 60 ohms (at 70Hz).https://www.innerfidelity.com/images/SennheiserHD598.pdf - impedance of 50 ohms, peaking at 300 ohms (at 90Hz).So going by the 1/8th rule, you want an output impedance under 4 ohms to keep the EQing to a minimum. There is a good article here with more information: http://nwavguy.blogspot.ca/2011/02/headphone-amp-impedance.htmlCheck RAA, they have a nice list and already graph how much they're EQed with different output impedances:225e: http://reference-audio-analyzer.pro/en/report/hp/grado-sr-225e.phpQuote from: eric.w on 2017-08-02 21:12:46Phoenix1 - thanks for linking that table of output impedance measurements on reddit, looks handy.The best way you can thank me is by contributing to that list. Last Edit: 2017-08-02 21:24:17 by Phoenix1


text:
Stop Piracy Virus is a fake antivirus software that gets installed on your computer through a Trojan. Stop Piracy Virus is a fraud program that is created with only one goal to trick computer users into buying a licensed version of their program. Once installed, Stop Piracy Virus will be programed to open automatically when your computer starts. When windows starts Stop Piracy Virus will automatically scan your computer and find many malwares, but will not delete the infections until you buy the licensed software. Stop Piracy Virus shows false scan results and false security warnings to convince you to think that your computer is infected with virus. These malware infections are all fake. Please do not buy the software based on anything it displays.
Download Stop Piracy Virus Removal Tool
Click Here To Download Stop Piracy Virus Removal Tool
Stop Piracy Virus Infection Symptoms
When infected with this rogue antispyware you will get many unwanted pop-up windows. Your Internet browser will take much more time to load. You will feel that your Internet connection is very slow. Most of the website you try to visit will be redirected to a phishing website. Your web search on google or bing will bring unrelated search results. Stop Piracy Virus will disable genuine antivirus or any security programs installed on your computer. Stop Piracy Virus will also block your access to any security related websites. You will find many new desktop icons and a new desktop background image. All this will make your computer run slow and you will find that many of the programs installed on your computer wont open.
Perform An Easy Stop Piracy Virus Removal On Your Computer
Manual removal of Stop Piracy Virus is a very difficult and risky job. You need to remove all the virus infected files and registry entries manually. The infected file types may include.exe,.dll,.dat. In most cases these infection will reactivate once you restart the computer. In order to completely remove this infection you need to scan your computer with Free Spyware Removal program. This is a very easy method. The spyware removal software will automatically find and remove all the virus, spyware and Trojan infected files on your computer.
Stop Piracy Virus can be easily removed by using Automatic Spyware Removal Tool. The Automatic Spyware Removal Tool will scan your computer and will remove all the detected infections on your computer. This is a very safe and easy method.
Download Stop Piracy Virus Removal Tool
Click Here To Download Stop Piracy Virus Removal Tool
Incoming Search Terms
Remove Stop Piracy Virus, Stop Piracy Virus removal, Stop Piracy Virus, How to get rid of Stop Piracy Virus, How to remove Stop Piracy Virus, Delete Stop Piracy Virus, Uninstall Stop Piracy Virus


text:
Cromer (2mls S), Norfolk
Haveringland, Norfolk
A single-storey former coach house for five guests, situated alongside three other properties offering shared leisure facilities including a fantastic 30' indoor swimming pool.
A thoughtfully converted single storey coach house offering comfortable accommodation for six guests, situated on a quiet complex of four properties boasting a shared indoor swimming pool.
Toftrees, Norfolk
An attractive barn conversion property offering spacious accommodation for six guests, offering a shared indoor pool and games room, enjoying a tranquil location in the Norfolk countryside.
Wroxham (4.5mls NE), Norfolk
Stunning former coach house set in the heart of Norfolk offering luxurious accommodation, with swimming pool, hot tub and tennis court, within easy reach of the coast and the Norfolk Broads.
Thornham, Norfolk
This traditional, spacious and cosy 19th century cottage is perfectly situated overlooking a quaint village green in the heart of picturesque Thornham, near the beautiful northwest coast of Norfolk.
Useful Information
About us
Let with us
Contact us
Holiday ideas
The Essentials
Terms of use
Booking terms


text:
(CMT Offstage keeps a 24/7 watch on everything that's happening with country music artists behind the scenes and out of the spotlight.)
I already knew I loved Army Sgt. Brendan Marrocco because his attitude after his bilateral arm transplant was just so inspiring. The Iraq war veteran, now 26, lost both his arms (and his legs) after a projectile exploded when he was fighting the fight near Baghdad about four years ago. As it turns out, the first person he wants to shake hands with — after he shakes hands with his surgeon — is Blake Shelton . They had a little Twitter conversation, and on Tuesday (Jan. 29) Shelton said, "Hey Brendan … I can't WAIT to shake the hand of an American Hero/Stud. … You my brother." After which Marrocco responded, "@blakeshelton holy mother of god!! I can't wait. I'm a huge fan and really looking forward to it. Thank you." I'm not sure when Shelton will shake Marrocco's new hand, but I hope he shakes it on behalf of every American who's grateful for his service.


text:
I admit it…I spend WaY ToO MuCh time on my phone. It is a habit I have been saying I am going to stop for a long time, but have yet to accomplish. It would be bad enough if I was taking time away from my kids by just talking on the phone, but we all know that is not what I am doing. I hop around from email, to Facebook, to Pinterest, to Twitter and sometimes throw in a game of skee-ball. The problem is…NoNe of this is more important than my kids! If you are hooked on your phone and have been trying to stop, this letter written by Tonya Ferguson on her blog 4 Little Fergusons might just be what you need to finally put it down.
Dear mom on the iPhone,
I see you over there on the bench, messing on your iPhone. It feels good to relax a little while your kids have fun in the sunshine, doesn't it? You are doing a great job with your kids: You work hard, you teach them manners, have them do their chores.
But Momma, let me tell you what you don't see right now …
Your little girl is spinning round and round, making her dress twirl. She is such a little beauty queen already, the sun shining behind her long hair. She keeps glancing your way to see if you are watching her.
You aren't.
Your little boy keeps shouting, "Mom, MOM watch this!" I see you acknowledge him, barely glancing his way.
He sees that too. His shoulders slump, but only for a moment, as he finds the next cool thing to do.
Now you are pushing your baby in the swing. She loves it! Cooing and smiling with every push. You don't see her though, do you? Your head is bent, your eyes on your phone as you absently push her swing.
Talk to her. Tell her about the clouds, Mommy. The Creator who made them. Tickle her tummy when she comes near you, and enjoy that baby belly laugh that leaves far too quickly.
Put your eyes back on your prize: your kids.
Show them that they are the priority. Wherever you are, be ALL there. I am not saying it's not OK to check in on your phone, but it's a time-sucker: User beware!
Play time at the park will be over before you know it.
The childhood of your children will be gone before you know it.
They won't always want to come to the park with you, Mommy. They won't always spin and twirl to make their new dress swish. They won't always call out, "WATCH ME!"
There will come a point when they stop trying, stop calling your name, stop bothering to interrupt your phone time.
Because they know …
You've shown them, all these moments, that the phone is more important than they are. They see you looking at it at while waiting to pick up brother from school, during playtime, at the dinner table, at bedtime.
I know that's not true, Mommy.
I know your heart says differently.
But your kids can't hear your words, Mommy. Your actions are screaming way too loudly.
May our eyes rest upon those we love, first and foremost, and may everything else fall away in the wonderful, noisy, sticky-fingered glory of it all.
~Robyn (Jersey Girl)


text:
Buy Beautiful Cactus & Succulents Online In india For Your Loved Ones
Cactus and Succulents have a difference. Succulent is the group of plants that can retain moisture or water in their roots, stems, and leaves and cactus or cacti is a member of this group of plant. Cactuses are available in a variety of size & shape. Their unique appearance makes them stand apart in the world of plants. In case, you are looking for something to enhance the beauty of your place, then, you can settle for the beautiful succulents and cactus plants. Buy succulent plants in India online after having a look at our website. Aloe vera, howarthia, jade plant, or echeveria plant are some of the popular succulent plants. Among cactus plants in India, you will find the echinocactus grusonii, prickly pear cactus, moon cactus, citroen c4 cactus, or pink cactus. Cactus and succulent plants would be a great addition to your window pane, balcony, study room, living room, dining table, coffee table, or office table. In your balcony, you can keep these succulent cactuses as hanging plants too to attract people. Or one can also keep these plants at the entrance or lawn in a beautiful design. As a gift for your loved ones, cactus and succulents would be a great choice truly.
Order Cactus or Succulents As Gifts For Various Occasions From Ferns N Petals
Do you know that cactus and succulent indoor and outdoor plants actually symbolize warmth, protection, endurance, and maternal love? Therefore, as a gift for your mom's birthday or Mother's Day these plants would be a perfect choice. As a housewarming gift or Thanksgiving gift also, you can opt for these wonderful succulents. Apart from succulents and cactuses, you will also find a wide range of air purifying plants here on our website. So, explore all these categories well and place an order before all your special occasions like a birthday, anniversary, Father's Day, New Year, Chinese New Year, Mid- Autumn festival, Hari Raya Puasa, National Day, or Deepavali. You can order these amazing plants using our next day delivery services and we assure you a swift and timely delivery at the doorstep of your loved ones.


text:
Your pregnancy and baby guide
Drinking alcohol while pregnant
Open all pages about Your pregnancy and baby guide
Main navigation
Getting pregnant
- Secrets to success
- Am I pregnant?
- Problems
I'm pregnant
- Early days
- Week by week
- Twins
- Preparing for the birth
- Work out your due date
- Tests scans and checks
- Your pregnancy (antenatal) care
- Vaccinations
- Your health and wellbeing
- Existing health problems
- Common pregnancy ailments
- Pregnancy-induced conditions
Labour and birth
- The start of labour
- The birth
- Emotions and worries
- Premature babies
Your newborn
- How to breastfeed
- Breastfeeding problems
- Lifestyle and breastfeeding
- Bottle feeding
- Newborn screening tests
- Newborn essentials
- New parents
- New mums
- Twins and multiples
Babies and toddlers
- Weaning and solid foods
- Teething
- Baby health and care
- Spotting signs of serious illness
- Reflux in babies
- How to take a baby's temperature
- Reducing the risk of SIDS
- Treating a high temperature
- Sleep problems in children
- Coughs, colds and ear infections
- Diarrhoea and vomiting
- Infectious illnesses
- Children's medicines
- Looking after a sick child
- Serious conditions and special needs
- Constipation in young children
- Your baby's height and weight
- Baby health and development reviews
- Leg and foot problems in children
- Learning, play and behaviour
- Twins
- Safety and accidents
- Parenting
Experts are still unsure exactly how much – if any – alcohol is completely safe for you to have while you're pregnant, so the safest approach is not to drink at all while you're expecting.
Is it safe to drink alcohol when pregnant?
The Chief Medical Officers for the UK recommend that if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, the safest approach is not to drink alcohol at all to keep risks to your baby to a minimum.
Drinking in pregnancy can lead to long-term harm to the baby, with the more you drink, the greater the risk.
How does alcohol affect my unborn baby?
When you drink, alcohol passes from your blood through the placenta and to your baby.
A baby's liver is one of the last organs to develop and does not mature until the later stages of pregnancy.
Your baby cannot process alcohol as well as you can, and too much exposure to alcohol can seriously affect their development.
Drinking alcohol, especially in the first 3 months of pregnancy, increases the risk of miscarriage, premature birth and your baby having a low birthweight.
Drinking after the first 3 months of your pregnancy could affect your baby after they're born.
The risks are greater the more you drink. The effects include learning difficulties and behavioural problems.
Drinking heavily throughout pregnancy can cause your baby to develop a serious condition called foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS).
Symptoms include:
- poor growth
- distinct facial features
- learning and behavioural problems
Drinking less heavily, and even drinking heavily on single occasions, may be associated with lesser forms of FAS. The risk is likely to be greater the more you drink.
How to avoid alcohol in pregnancy
It may not be as difficult as you think to avoid alcohol completely during pregnancy, as many women go off the taste of alcohol early in pregnancy.
Most women do give up alcohol once they know they're pregnant or when they're planning to become pregnant.
Women who find out they're pregnant after already having drunk in early pregnancy should avoid further drinking.
However, they should not worry unnecessarily, as the risks of their baby being affected are likely to be low.
If you're concerned, talk to a midwife or doctor.
What is a unit of alcohol?
If you do decide to drink when you're pregnant, it's important to know how many units you are consuming.
One UK unit is 10 millilitres (ml) – or 8 grams – of pure alcohol. This is equal to:
- just under half a pint of cider (218ml) at 4.5% alcohol by volume (ABV: you can find this on the label)
- just under half a pint of beer (250ml) at 4% ABV
- a single measure of spirit (25ml), such as whisky, gin, rum or vodka, at 40% ABV
- just under half a standard glass of wine (76ml) at 13% ABV
You can find out how many units there are in different types and brands of drinks with the Drinkaware unit and calorie calculator.
If you have an Android smartphone, iPhone, iPad or iPod touch, you can download the free One You Drinks Tracker from Google Play or the iTunes App Store. It allows you to keep a drinks diary and get feedback on your drinking.
Read more about alcohol units.
Alcohol support services
If you have difficulty cutting down what you drink, talk to a midwife, doctor or pharmacist.
Confidential help and support is also available from local counselling services:
- Drinkline – the national alcohol helpline; if you're worried about your own or someone else's drinking, call this free helpline on 0300 123 1110 (weekdays 9am to 8pm, weekends 11am to 4pm)
- We Are With You – a UK-wide treatment agency that helps individuals, families and communities manage the effects of alcohol and drug misuse
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) – a free self-help group; its "12-step" programme involves getting sober with the help of regular support groups
Find your nearest alcohol support services.
Read more advice on cutting down your drinking.
Find maternity services near you.
Page last reviewed: 04/10/2019
Next review due: 04/10/2022


text:
African lions and villagers would benefit from fences to protect them from each other, according to a new study by University of Minnesota researcher Craig Packer published online by Ecology Letters on Tuesday, March 5.
Fencing has long been anathema to most conservationists, but Packer said it offers the best hope for saving iconic African wildlife, an undertaking that will require sweeping measures rather than piecemeal efforts. In an interview, he called for an international "Marshall Plan" to erect fences where possible to protect people, lions, elephants and other threatened wildlife species.
Most African governments don't have the resources to protect people and wildlife from each other, but without a massive increase in conservation funding nearly half of unfenced lion populations could decline to near extinction over the next 20-40 years. And in the long run, it would be more cost-effective to maintain lion populations in fenced reserves.
For the study, Packer and 57 colleagues compared population densities and management practices across 42 sites in 11 countries. Fenced reserves maintained lions at 80 percent of their potential population capacity on annual management budgets of about $500 per square kilometer, while unfenced populations required an average of $2,000 per square kilometer each year to remain at just 50 percent of their capacity.
"Even though lion habitat has been reduced by at least 75 percent over the last century, more still remains than can possibly be conserved," said Packer, a professor in the Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior. "Several of Africa's most famous wildlife areas involve large-scale migrations of wildebeest and zebra that could never be enclosed within a fenced reserve, so the lions' last stand should be thought out carefully in terms of those places that can safely be fenced and those that will be worth the enormous monetary investments because they can't be fenced."
As encroaching civilization has brought people and lions into much closer proximity the incidence of lion attacks on humans and livestock has increased substantially. Not surprisingly, villagers retaliate by killing lions to protect their families and their livestock.
"We must never lose sight of the fact that the costs of lion conservation ultimately derive from the need to protect people from these animals," said Packer. And lions are not alone in causing widespread human misery. "Elephants are in crisis, too, and although they are largely being decimated by ivory poachers, there's little support for elephant conservation in rural villages because of the enormous damage they cause to crops. A fence that is lion-proof is also elephant-proof, so a well-designed policy of fencing would protect more than just lions."
Because the findings from the Ecology Letters paper present such an enormous challenge for African governments and conservationists, the best hope may be to advocate for a "Marshall Plan" for African wildlife conservation, Packer said.
"If we're serious about this, it means establishing fences around very large areas, such as the Selous Game Reserve, which is home to the largest remaining lion population in the world. Fencing the Selous, which covers an area of about 17,000 square miles, would cost something like $30 million. None of the world's conservation agencies could afford that, but perhaps a global funding agency for developing countries would do it because fencing would protect humans as well as lions."
The Latest Streaming News: Marshall Plan for African wildlife updated minute-by-minute
Bookmark this page and come back often
Latest NEWS
Latest VIDEO


text:
$1.4 Million Grant Funds TSP's Study of Teacher, Principal Quality
Dr. Rodney Andrews is the Texas Schools Project director and an assistant professor of economics.
Texas Schools Project director Dr. Rodney Andrews says "everybody has had an exceptional teacher, so we know that teachers matter." But empirically proving the effects teachers have on their students is more complex.
Researchers at the Texas Schools Project (TSP), which moved to UT Dallas in 1997, were among the first to publish research on teacher quality, Andrews said. With a $1.475 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education, the TSP is exploring other elements of K-12 education.
In addition to research on teacher quality, the award is funding a study on how principal leadership affects student performance.
"Our research looks at the key players in K-12: the teachers who deliver, the principals and administrators who lead, and charter schools, which are another philosophy of education delivery," said Andrews, an assistant professor of economics. "The purpose of this grant is to provide some insight into these pressing matters that anybody would agree are deserving of study."
The five-year award began in July 2012 and was awarded to the project through the National Center for Analysis of Longitudinal Data in Education Research (CALDER) under the American Institutes for Research.
Data for the Long Term
Longitudinal data provided by agencies such as the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Texas Education Agency allow the Texas Schools Project to track:
- Texas students from kindergarten through high school graduation.
- Students enrolled in colleges or universities in Texas as well as their commencement dates, majors and the paths they took to graduate.
- Earnings of individuals who work for firms that pay taxes to support unemployment insurance.
The TSP, housed under the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences (EPPS), aims to enable education research that will benefit students in Texas by bringing together individual-level administrative data from multiple state agencies and other sources of education data.
This research is supported through the TSP's two subsidiaries: the Center for Research on Education Policy and the UT Dallas Education Research Center.
Dr. Eric Hanushek, Paul and Jean Hanna Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University, is chairman of TSP's executive committee and the principal investigator. Andrews and Dr. Steven Rivkin, professor of economics and economics department head at the University of Illinois at Chicago, are also part of the research team.
Andrews said through the TSP, researchers with projects approved by a joint advisory board have access to more than 1 billion records of longitudinal data.
"The longitudinal data allow you to track students over time, so you can measure progress, or you can measure difficulties," Andrews said. "You can truly discern whether or not a policy is actually helping students because the benefit certainly won't come instantaneously. You need to be able to see what happens to students after they have been exposed to something."
The project also seeks to improve academic achievement, increase success in postsecondary education and improve labor market outcomes of students in Texas and the nation.
"In the Dallas Independent School District, two years ago they offered teachers buyouts for early retirement. We're curious as to how that might have affected student performance and what types of teachers would take up that offer," Andrews said.
Although the project is not permitted to share data with the other seven states that comprise CALDER, the organization gives the entities an opportunity to share insight, Andrews said.
Dr. Denis Dean, dean of EPPS, said the researchers' work can move education policymaking away from the realm of preconceived ideas and into a practical, results-driven framework.
"Policymakers need solid information to make sound decisions, and that sort of information has been sorely lacking," Dean said. "Education policy debates typically boil down to reiterations of previously formed and deeply entrenched opinions. The work done by the researchers at the Texas Schools Project can change that."
Media Contact: The Office of Media Relations, UT Dallas, (972) 883-2155, [email protected].


text:
Full-service bridal salons offer spacious private dressing rooms and a consultant to work one on one with you to find the perfect wedding dress. Many bridal salons offer trunk shows to showcase designers' work where you can find tons of wedding dresses to try on. Besides looking for a wedding gown, sample bridesmaids, mother of the bride, and flower girl dresses are often available to view. Another option is to work with wedding dress designers and create the dress of your dreams.
Our list includes wedding dress shops that offer not only designer wedding dresses, but everything from cheap wedding dresses and plus size wedding dresses, to simple and modest wedding dresses. If you are looking for anything bridal Portland and other wedding dress stores in the Northwest on our list will have something just for you!


text:
Each spring, Burke Mountain hosts a most incredible ski event, called "Pond Skimming."
Basically, this crazy competition involves an array of risk-takers, clad in colorful and sometimes "racy" costumes, who ski down a steep slope, attempting to pick up enough speed to "skim" across a man-made pond at the foot of the moutain–on skis or snowboards. Sometimes, they're successful and sometimes, they end up in the "drink." The winners are crowned "King" and "Queen" of the mountain, and besides bragging rights, they're each awarded a free season's pass for the upcoming ski season.
The 21st Annual Pond Skimming 2011, held on a balmy spring day on April 2, did not disappoint. The theme was heroes and villians. Here are some of the colorful sights . . .
"Captain Underpants" (left) was a crowd favorite (brrr!) . . . as was Braveheart. . .
James Bond and his side-kick made an appearance on the slopes . . .
. . . as well as "Cruella DeVille" and friends . . .
The "villian" banker, who made off with everyone's money, sped across the water . . .
. . . as did the "Prez" . . .
For the first time ever, there was a team of two contestants on original "skis built for two."
The Joker waited for his turn . . .
. . . and "Tony the Tiger" was victorious for the first few runs across the deep.
Cat Woman tucked in for a quick ride down the slope . . .
. . . but didn't quite make the stretch . . .
Some who belly-flopped in the pond needed the assistance of the ever-friendly and ever-ready rescue diver . . .
The Joker continued to smile, even when he was soaking wet, as did the clown . . .
As the starting line moved lower down the mountain after each round, racers found it tough to keep their speed up to make it safely across the pond.
The judges gave the thumbs up/thumbs down on each skier.
The "King of the Pond" was the last man standing, NOT in the water. It happened to be someone dubbed, "Charlie Sheen," and he said "You decide if I'm a hero or a villian!"
All in all, a fun day at the best ski mountain around!!!