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CUSTOMER SATISFACTION is extremely important to us. We are happy to honor our unconditional 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. We do what it takes to keep a customer happy and coming back. If for any reason you are not satisfied with a product or service, please notify us by email. It is our sincere desire that you be happy with our web site and any purchase you make from us. If you are satisfied, please tell others.


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- This event has passed.
Construction Ready at Build Cobb Partnership Information Session
March 21, 2019 @ 8:30 am - 9:30 am
An event every week that begins at 8:30 am on Tuesday and Thursday, repeating until March 19, 2020
The Construction Ready Training Program is a four-week accelerated NCCER ACCREDITED, hands-on construction training and certification program that is offered in four locations in the Metro Atlanta region. The Construction Ready program connects participants to some of Atlanta's top construction companies, which quite often leads to employment. This is a FREE background friendly and drug-free class for all eligible residents in the City of Atlanta and the following counties: Cobb, Cherokee, Clayton, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale.
Interested participants, MUST attend an Information Session to start the process of enrollment. To learn more about Construction Ready, click here. To learn more about Construction Ready's Training Partner HB NEXT, click here. If you have any questions as to what Information Session you should attend please contact Veda White, Student Success Manager, at 678-832-6570 or email firstname.lastname@example.com.
Cobb County residents can click here to sign up for the next Information Session with the Build Cobb Partnership at The Collective at Cumberland.

subset: commoncrawl


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NFL economics leave many vets jobless
The single-biggest issue for NFL players when the Collective Bargaining Agreement was being negotiated in 2011 was the desire to have more time off.
They got their wish – many of them in a way they never imagined.
They got it in the form of unemployment.
"You could field a really good team with the guys on the street," one agent said recently.
Chargers linebacker Shaun Phillips would start for that squad.
Not a Pro Bowler but a consistent performer, the 31-year-old Phillips had 9½ sacks for the Chargers in 2012 in advance of becoming an unrestricted free agent.
A month into free agency, a guy who has averaged better than eight sacks over the past eight seasons remains without a team.
There are many more cases, and there have been an increasing number of them since the new CBA ended the lockout two summers ago.
Perhaps the best example of this new economic reality in the NFL is this offseason's flooded cornerback market. Not long ago, top corners were getting multi-year deals with $8-10 million averages. This year, some of the best guys have signed one-year deals for $3-5 million.
It's a shame.
But this is on the player's union, which now has a good portion of its constituency living with its compromise.
The reality is that the salary cap is not even as high as it was in 2009 and is not rising fast enough for the same volume of players to continue to get big deals.
The need to fit the top-end contracts in by jettisoning some bloated deals and finding bargains has made 30 the new 35 and 35 practically the new 65 in the NFL, as longtime starters who had productive seasons in 2012 may well remain without jobs forever as teams opt for to go with a replacement who may be only a fraction as good but comes at a fraction of the price.
Get used to it.
This is a new era, where players who have tread left on the tires will lose jobs to younger, cheaper models.
Players can blame the owners, but the players agreed to this deal.
It was the players who wanted more protection for their bodies in the form of shorter offseason programs and reduced contact in practice. It was their leadership that agreed to a deal that took the salary cap back to a pre-2009 level.
At $123 million for 2013, the cap still is approximately $6 million short of what it was in 2009.
Despite NFL Players Association Executive Director DeMaurice Smith boasting about gains made by the players after the new CBA was agreed to, the fact is the rich (a finite number of star players) are really the only ones getting richer.
Sure, teams individually and collectively have to spend beyond a minimum under the current CBA. And yes, minimum salaries increased.
But that did nothing to prevent veteran players who used to make $5 million having to settle for $1 million – or have no job at all.
The cap, based on a formula prominently based on league revenues, is not expected to increase significantly until 2015, a year after the league's new television deal kicks in.
This new landscape could potentially work in the favor of the Chargers this year, as they search for a new left tackle and possibly a right tackle as well.
There have not been and will not be high-stakes bidding wars for tackles such as Tyson Clabo, Eric Winston and Bryant McKinnie. It is likely, in fact, the Chargers can wait to see what needs they can fill in the draft before turning to available veterans.
The new reality means NFL teams can afford to be patient, and veteran players are going to have to swallow their pride and play for what they can get.


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Looking forward to a great cfd 2015!
Stiff Competition
Businesses, organizations, students and community members put their creativity to the test by designing and constructing anything they can image out of non-perishable food items that they have raised or purchased.
Community Festival
CFD is free to attend! While being entertained by the fierce competition, we have live music from local bands, your favorite Triangle food trucks, local breweries and a kid's zone featuring pumpkin painting and a bouncy castle. Bring your lawn chairs and get ready to enjoy a beautiful Saturday afternoon.
Local Outreach
All food that is raised by the competitors and the food that is donated by the local community goes directly towards Housing for New Hope, a Durham non-profit that provides food and shelter to those less fortunate. In the past 4 years, CFD has raised over 60,000 lbs of food, providing over 48,000 meals.
Event creator / organizer
MHAworks is a commercial architecture firm located in the heart of downtown Durham. With a staff of 35 professionals, the firm has been in the Triangle for over 20 years. MHAworks specializes in office design, science and technology design, mixed use facilities and worship facilities.
Event beneficiary
Housing for New Hope was established in 1992 as a nonprofit organization serving the needs of people who are either homeless or at risk of homelessness in the Triangle. The food and donations raised through Creative Food Drive go directly to Housing for New Hope's mission in assisting those less fortunate.


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La Liga roundup: Barcelona, Real Madrid held to draws
BARCELONA, Spain (AP) -- Lionel Messi's 19th straight scoring effort in the Spanish league wasn't enough to stop Barcelona from drawing 2-2 at Celta Vigo, as the leaders stumbled on Saturday before their Champions League quarterfinal with Paris Saint-Germain.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, also sputtered to a 1-1 draw at Real Zaragoza despite Cristiano Ronaldo's goal, while Malaga won 3-1 at Rayo Vallecano with both teams facing first legs in Europe's final eight this week.
Barcelona appeared to have secured the win when Messi added to his earlier assist to Cristian Tello by scoring in the 73rd minute to extend his record league scoring run to 19 consecutive games. With the goal against Celta, Messi has netted against every other team in Spain's topflight during the streak.
But Barcelona's defense left midfielder Borja Oubina unmarked to head home the tying goal two minutes from time, reawakening doubts about its injury-riddled backline before Tuesday's trip to PSG.
"The streak doesn't matter. What we really wanted was to win this game,'' said Messi. "I have been fortunate enough to score in these games and help the team keep on winning.
"The victory got away from us at the end, but we have to turn the page. We can't let it distract us. Now we have to rest up to arrive in good shape (to Paris) and get a good result, knowing that it will be an evenly matched contest.''
The draw didn't endanger Barcelona's campaign to reclaim the league crown. The Catalan club maintained its 13-point advantage as Madrid seemingly had its sights set on Wednesday's game against Galatasaray in the Champions League.
Zaragoza, which entered the match hovering over the drop zone without a win in its last 11 games, went out the more energized side, and Rodrigo "Rodri'' Rios scored six minutes in after Madrid's Luka Modric lost the ball. Ronaldo pulled Madrid even in the 38th with his 28th league goal this season.
Midfielder Pedro Morales scored one goal and set up two more in his first start for Malaga to give it a convincing victory at Rayo before the Costa del Sol side hosts Borussia Dortmund, also on Wednesday.
Morales served up passes for headed goals by Weligton in the 21st and Julio Baptista in the 55th before he capped his fine performance since joining from Dinamo Zagreb in January with a long-range strike four minutes from time.
Elsewhere, Levante edged Sevilla 1-0 from Ruben Garcia's goal to stay in the hunt for a Europa League berth next season.
After a long international break and with the PSG game looming, Barcelona assistant coach Roura rested several of his regular starters, while 21-year-old Martin Montoya and 22-year-old Marc Bartra were picked to patch up Barcelona's depleted defense.
Messi, making his first start as Barcelona captain in league play, was forced into a playmaking role with Xavi Hernandez injured and Andres Iniesta playing only the final 25 minutes.
Barcelona dominated possession throughout, but Celta struck first after the visitors lost possession in their half, leading to midfielder Nacho Insa receiving Fabian Orellana's short pass that he poked just inside the upright in the 38th.
Messi cued up Tello to pull Barcelona level five minutes later with a lobbed pass to beat Celta's flimsy offside trap, with Tello curling the ball with a right-footed shot around the goalkeeper and off the base of the far post.
Roura sent Iniesta on and striker David Villa followed three minutes later as Barcelona sought the winner.
With Villa up front, Messi had more room to maneuver and he soon played Tello wide on the left flank before sliding forward to meet his return cross and drive it in with a low left-footed strike.
Messi has a league-leading 43 goals through 29 rounds and 56 overall this season. He has 30 goals during his unprecedented run of scoring in 19 straight rounds, shattering the previous mark of 10 straight games.
Celta, which was fighting to escape the relegation zone, made one last desperate push, and it paid off when Dani Alves failed to check Oubina at the far post to turn in Orellana's cross.
"What Leo is doing is an unheard of feat in the league's history and it shows the importance he has and his greatness as a player,'' said Roura. "With time, we will give him even more credit for what he's doing.''
Eric Abidal, who was named to Barcelona's squad for the first time since receiving a liver transplant last year, never left the bench.
Barcelona head coach Tito Vilanova didn't travel with the team after returning this week from a 10-week medical stay in New York where he received treatment after the removal of a throat tumor in December. He may accompany the team on Tuesday.
"We're very happy to have Eric back with us,'' said Messi. "Tito looks very motivated, and it's important that he's with us for the final stretch of the season.''


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Search results for "crytopgraphy "
The Deep
Saturday, 30 July, 2011 - 21:39
The web has been described as The Shallows, a perspective whose subject position is firm-footed on the far-side of the Styx. The web is deep, The Deep. The early pioneers also mourned the loss of the low-lying fens of the embryonic web as a few inches of idiocy washed over man-made territory.
... every year in September, a large number of new university freshmen acquired access to Usenet for the first time, and took some time to acclimatise to the network's standards of conduct and "netiquette". After a month or so, these new users would theoretically learn to comport themselves according to its conventions, or simply tire of using the service. September thus heralded the peak influx of disruptive newcomers to the network [...]
Since that time, the dramatic rise in the popularity of the Internet has brought a constant stream of new users. Thus, from the point of view of the pre-1993 Usenet user, the regular "September" influx of new users never ended. The term was first used by Dave Fischer in a January 26, 1994, post to alt.folklore.computers:
"It's moot now. September 1993 will go down in net.history as the September that never ended."
Wikipedia, 16 July 2011, Eternal September, [http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Eternal_September&oldid=439704212]
The strata in the body of the web are veined with magnetic powers - the repulsion of opposites, maintained initially by traditional class-like divides: pioneers vs carpetbaggers, early adopters vs noobs, experts vs laymen, serious cats vs your mum.
Here's one of the secrets they don't tell you when you first whip that modem out of its plastic wrapper and fight your way through arcane commands to log on: cyberspace is full of cliques.
Wendy Grossman, March 1997, The Making of an Underclass: AOL, [http://www.nyupress.org/netwars/pages/chapter03/ch03_.html]
The early, wide incursions into the rarified air of the web were not shallow. They were glacial, carving out abysses of information as they terraformed a new geology of media. The new Stygian divide became that between the commercials and professionals (academies, corporations) and auto-didacts (the amateurs that are you and I).
Another interesting point is that the old quality distinction between "authorities" & "experts" on one side and "dedicated individuals" on the other is nowadays slowly disappearing. We could even state -paradoxically and taking account of all due exceptions- that those that study and publish their take on a given matter for money and career purposes (most of those deep web "authoritative experts" and almost all the young sycophants from minor and/or unknown universities that hover around many proprietary databases) will seldom be able to match the knowledge depth (and width) offered by those that work on a given argument out of sheer love and passion.
fravia+, 12 February 2008, How to access and exploit the shallow deep web, [http://www.searchlores.org/deepweb_searching.htm]
Foundational, dialectical mythologies arose: the search engines index the useful web; the search engines get co-opted; the PageRank™ algorithm resists gaming; the indexed web becomes mere unwashed popularity. We must maintain the separate layers at all costs.
On the internet, there is no real underground anymore. So if you wanted to create an underground for yourself, the first thing you might do is generate a sort of lexical darknet by using keyterms search engines cant parse.
Warren Ellis, 7 June 2010, †‡† (Cross Doublecross Cross?), [http://www.warrenellis.com/?p=9751]
The ongoing conflict between conservatism and progressivism continues inexorably. Emancipatory drives are reified, while solid old steadfasts melt into air: the veins migrate within the rock, metamorphically, changing state, but the strata always remain, somewhere. There are antinomies that will not be mixed.
This is the paradox of the underground: staying small means not being noticed (widely), but will mean being able to exist for probably an extended period of time. Becoming (too) big will mean reaching more people and spreading the texts further into society, however it will also probably mean being noticed as a treat, as a network of text-piracy. The true strategy is to retain this balance of openly dispersed subversivity.
Janneke Adema, 20 September 2009, Scanners, collectors and aggregators. On the underground movement of (pirated) theory text sharing, [http://openreflections.wordpress.com/2009/09/20/scanners-collectors-and-aggregators-on-the-%E2%80%98underground-movement%E2%80%99-of-pirated-theory-text-sharing/]
In the metamorphism there are opportunities, Temporary Autonomous Zones which open up in moments of depressurisation, in deterritorialised spaces, but only for as long as the tectonic attention is driven elsewhere - or until the machine is hard-rebooted.
Island2 is a free software artwork by Martin Howse which creates "a semi-permanent, isolated island in the computer's memory". It's a program that firmly establishes its own space in the memory, unnoticed and inviolable. This empty, silent virtual zone, is only temporary autonomous, since it can be removed simply switching off or restarting the machine. But its "hidden territory" is fascinating, an unknown digital land invisibly established under the user's eyes, with no aim to take over any other system part.
Neural.it, 12 March 2010, Island2, a squatted computer memory zone, [http://www.neural.it/art/2010/03/island2_a_squatted_computer_me.phtml]
The destabilisation always forces immiscible elements back into to their ever-moving homogenous conglomerations, flints in expanses of chalk. The factions shield themselves, striving to make their outer edges crystallise impenetrably, cryptographically. You may trace it, but not interpret.
Freenet is effectively a shadow of the web, with its own sites, forums and email services [...] Since Freenet sites dont sit on servers, but on data stores spread throughout the network, they cant be taken down, and because each communication between one computer and another is routed through other nodes, with each one only "knowing" the address of the next node and that of the last, Freenet's users can maintain high levels of anonymity.
On Freenet, nobody knows who you are, or what youre looking at. Each system also contributes hard disk space, which is occupied by a data cache containing chunks of heavily encrypted data that the program can reassemble into Freenet forums and sites [...]
Freenet was the brainchild of a young Irish computer scientist, Ian Clarke, who came up with the idea during his studies at the University of Edinburgh in the mid-1990s. He wanted to "build a communication tool that would realise the things that a lot of people thought the internet was a place where you could communicate without being watched, and where people could be anonymous if they wanted to be".
PC Pro, 9 March 2010, The dark side of the web, [http://www.pcpro.co.uk/features/356254/the-dark-side-of-the-web]
Data form into islands, inhabited but isolated; incommunicable to all but the secret agent, Charon, whose services cost one silver coin.
wget http://1010.co.uk/island2.tar.gz
tar zxvf island2.tar.gz
cd island2
insmod ./island.ko
Martin Howse, 5 April 2010, island2, [http://www.1010.co.uk/org/island2.html]


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Please note, that I have removed all my pics from Photobucket; and in time, I will re-upload all the pics in this thread.
Thank you for your patience.
I wanted to name it for the thread title, but I'll wait till the build is done before it gets named.
(Edit: After talking about trouts and old fish'n holes, it influenced my head and I had some dreams of past days. When I woke up today, I thought of a name for the build..."The Steelhead". Mix trouts, replacing most of the kit' parts with steel, and future Metalhead axles.....Steelhead).
At first, I was going to do a total scratch build; and although I'm in no hurry to finish building it, I still want to get it done ready to crawl for the spring.
First on the list was a Dinky "Split-Skid". I'm still waiting for the maker to finish off the batch that mine is in. Next was some bad-_ss wheels. Thanx GCM Racing! These wheels are wickedly cool.devil
Then I picked up a Dingo builders kit. First mod was to de-paint the chassis rails, and scratch them up good ready for future brazing. To my supprise, the kit came with 4-link axle mounts, so I 8-32'd, 1/4" steel'd, Jato-rod'd some suspension & steering links. Front bumper was next. It still has to get the rest of the tube-work done.
Next wil be the rear bumper, shock towers, and side gaurds. I'll update when those are done:


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Voted great works!
plz support :D
|Prints / Wins
|Votes Received
|Votes Given
|Shirts Owned
Voted great works!
plz support :D
Thanks Campkatie! I appreciate the kind words and vote! I think you design is awesome! I hope things are coming together with your video and best of luck with the contest.
Hello campkatie!
I am Wagner Nogueira, Brazilian comics artist. I entered now this difficult and fun world of designs for shirts. I like so much of your designs (already voted and commented) and today, in addition to introduce myself, i came to ask a little help on a challenge that i am participating. See the post on my blog that you will better understand:
Thank you! You're awesome!
Big Hug!
Katie…your work is amazing, pleae contact me regarding some design work if you are at all interested… firstname.lastname@example.com thanks
thanks for the support! CHeers!
hi can you take a look at my design pls, id appreciate it if youd tell me what its needs or or what its missing. I like to learn by with the critiques i receive <33
thanks thanks for your support!
awesome! Thanks so much for the kind words.
Hi there!
Congrats! You're this week's DBH's Tumblr Featured Artist of the Week! Check out your feature here!
thanks for the support…campkatie !
thanks for the support :)
thanks, Brian! What a cool site you have going on.
Your awesome Sweet Pea Attacks tshirt was recently featured on my website. http://yearofthetshirt.com – Thanks, +Brian
Hey I'm glad you liked the shirt. Make sure to take a pic and post it on the design's page, would you? :D
Oh and, congrats again on Jailbird! I'm getting it, fo sho! :)
Hi campkatie it's not a free clipart, it's a free vector i used for the helmet on my design and i admit it i'm sorry for using free vectors on this design it will serve as a lesson to me.
hi there can't open the link you have given there was an error on http404 on it, can't see the image
Sadly DBH didn't print (or they sold out in 10 minutes, haha) men's small, sorry. Medium it is then :)
Hey Katie!! Guess who won DBH+HOPE contest?? THIS GUY :) and guess who won a FREE "There's Still HOPE" shirt?? YOU!! :D
Yes, I had a raffle with all comments posted on the design and you won a free shirt so, please send over you shipping address and size to sotomayor.daniel at gmail.com and I will send it right over :)
Happy Happy Bday! hehehe…have a good day tomorrow!
I really appreciate your comment!, thanks katie. :)


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It has been a while (quite long actually), I haven't post anything here. I've stumbled upon this video on Youtube which is apparently gave me some ideas to continue posting some articles around Green Technologies.
So, some quick researches lead me to 3rd International Greentech & Eco Products Exhibition & Conference Malaysia — currently being held at KL Convention Center (KLCC). Without any further thoughts, I will be there today to do some researches.
So, stay tune buddy. I'll post some stuff as soon as tonight. Well, tonight is Friday night, maybe tomorrow. 🙂
Enjoy this video & happy TGIF:


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Friday, March 3, 2017
Other shows currently on sale are Denny Laine (May 8) and Micky Dolenz (June 13 and 14) at City Winery Chicago; The Zombies (April 13 and 14) and Flat Five (June 9) at Thalia Hall; Nouvelle Vague (March 27) and New Pornographers (April 19) at Metro; and The Pixies at Chicago Theatre on October 8.
There's a showcase at Metro tomorrow night featuring three bands that formed over 20 years ago but are still highly regarded. The Lilacs, led by singer-guitarist Ken Kurson, will be performing for the first time in quite a while. Material Reissue brought back original Material Issue members Ted Ansani and Mike Zelenko for a 2011 reunion gig at International Pop Overthrow - Chicago with singer-guitarist Phil Angotti replacing the late Jim Ellison. They've been playing the occasional gig around town ever since, such as opening for Matthew Sweet at Park West. The Bad Examples have been back together for a while now, even as singer-guitarist Ralph Covert continues his successful Ralph's World career. The all-ages show is scheduled to start at 6:00 p.m.
The schedule for this year's International Pop Overthrow - Chicago at Red Line Tap is now available online and once again, a lot of long-time favorites will be involved. Some of the more familiar acts are Steve Dawson from Dolly Varden, Phil Angotti, Ellis Clark And The Big Parade, Trolley, The Artist Formally Known As Vince, The Bishop's Daredevil Stunt Club, The Unswept, Dave Rave, The Collectors, Mike Vanderbilt And The Suburban Garage Sound, Metropoly, The Webstirs, Sex Ritter, Pop Dollys, The Red Plastic Buddha, The Jeremy Band, and The Romeros. Plus, there are always exciting new bands waiting to be discovered.
The 20th Annual Chicago European Union Film Festival opened tonight at the Gene Siskel Film Center with the U.S. Premiere of director Jameson Cucciardi's romantic comedy 20,000 Reasons. The festival will offer 62 films from 28 countries through March 30.
The Britannicas have a new song penned by vocalist-bassist Herb Eimerman called "Real World Time" can be heard on vocalist-drummer Joe Algeri's Bandcamp page. It will be on a various artists compilation titled 12 String High Vol. 2 on the Spanish label You Are The Cosmos this summer. Eimerman lives here in the Chicago area, Algeri resides in Australia, and through the marvels of modern technology, they record jangling power pop music together, along with the Swedish musicians Stefan Johansson and Magnus Karlsson.
The Arcada Theatre in St. Charles has a grand opening tonight for its Club Arcada Speakeasy And Showroom. It's a Roaring Twenties themed collection of small performance spaces and bars—some with secret entrances. Club Arcada is located in the same building as The Arcada's main stage, but on the third floor. The staff will wear "Gatsby Girls & Guys" attire and patrons are expected to look presentable, i.e. no t-shirts, beachwear, shorts, gym shoes, or ripped jeans. The decor reminds me of the Harlow's club on Chicago's southwest side back in the late 1970s, where you could catch some of the coolest bands on the club scene.
The Metropolis Performing Arts Centre in Arlington Heights is presenting its first play of 2017 with Tom Stoppard's Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead at the Metropolis. It runs through March18.
That issue of MOJO magazine with Ray Davi.es on the cover and a free Kinks tribute CD is now available in America. Most of the artists on Something Else - A Tribute To The Kinks turned in low key renditions of Kinks material, with the best efforts coming from Ty Segall on "Waterloo Sunset" and former Supergrass member Gaz Coombes on "This Time Tomorrow."
Dave Davies from The Kinks will be coming to The Arcada in St. Charles on April 8.
The Sons Of The Silent Age David Bowie tribute band will be at Martyrs' next Saturday, March 11.
There will be an International Woman's Day art sale from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. next Saturday, March 11 at Bourdage Pearls on Ravenswood in Chicago. Local artist Brenda Goodbread Walker will be showing some of her work and there will be an acoustic performance by Graham Elvis. at 3:00 p.m.
The Heroes And Villains Fan Fest comes to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center on the weekend of March 25 and 26, with special guests from several popular TV shows. Two-day passes for general admission are $90, Saturday only is $55, and Sunday is $45. Various forms of VIP packages are also available.
Posted by Terry Flamm at 11:18 PM
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Just say no to pro.
Summer isn't just slow for gamers – it's also slow for sports fans. And if you're a video gaming sports fan, it's almost boring enough to drive you to literature. But don't open that novel just yet, because the video game college football season starts right now, with EA's NCAA Football 2007. With streamlined modes, a ton of content and some great new moves, this is one of EA's best college tries.
And it's definitely the biggest. NCAA Football 2007 is crammed to the gillswith volumes of play modes, mini games, drills, mascot matches, scrimmages and online options, keeping you as good as illiterate until the real thing kicks off in early September.
[image1]While most of this content returns from last year, including the great online content, impact players, morale system and stadium noise, EA definitely refined their game during the offseason. The most improved player is Campus Legend mode, which used to be called Race for the Heisman. Last year, this was a brainless waste of time, but it's now found its stride. You'll have to maintain your academic performance and social standing while completing drills and practice sessions in an attempt to make yourself the most loved player in school history. It's still underdeveloped, but at least now you have things to manage.
The mode ostensibly takes place in your dorm room, but it really plays out on your calendar, where you'll practice, play or simulate games, and divide the rest of your time between extra drills, homework, and "social events." During practice, you have ten tries to make good plays. If you do well enough, you gain an attribute point to spend on yourself. From there, you can study, meet with a tutor, position drill, or be social.
Unfortunately, popularity isn't all it's cracked up to be. "Social Event" is just an option you select that, in turn, immediately boosts your popularity meter. As far as we can tell, this meter has no effect on anything other than your imagination. Ah, the life of a varsity stud. I guess I'm glad I was a dork in college after all.
In a horrible twist of irony, studying is actually more interesting than socializing. Around the time you create your player, you're asked to choose a major. These range from fake (Sports Stadiums) to real (Chemistry) to useless (English). As you progress through a school year, the imaginary forces of your social life will gradually eat away at your GPA. To counter this, you have to pass quizzes pertaining to your specific major. These are generally easy to figure out, even if you don't know anything about the subject.
[image2]Quizzes and meters are not the stuff of good gameplay, but the result is greater than the sum of its parts because you're at least playing a role. It's not the most riveting material, but give EA credit for actually making it playable. After years and years of impersonal dynasties, dominating the league as a hugely popular, immensely stupid running back named Dooda Dooie is a welcome change of pace. If only we could get the announcers to scream his name.
I don't mean to take anything away from NCAA Football 2007's Dynasty mode, by the way. Even if it doesn't have much character, it has just about everything else, including the brand new Spring Scrimmage. This is a mini-game where each side has five minutes to make big plays for big points. After the game is over, you can evaluate player performances and adjust your depth chart accordingly. Yes, it's as boring as it sounds. No, you still can't slap players or threaten to kill their parents. Guess there's always next year.
Instead of abuse, NCAA Football 2007 focuses on momentum. As you make big plays on offense and defense, you gain momentum and steal it from your opponent. If you fill your momentum meter, all of your players will become stronger, faster and harder to stop. Sometimes this simply leads to blowouts, as one team gains momentum and never lets it go, but it can also lead to incredible comebacks and tense finishes. Yet again, EA has figured out a way to realistically add an intangible but important factor to their college football game, even if they made it a silly meter.
They even managed to make defense more interesting with the new "Get The Jump" feature. At the touch of a button, defensive linemen can get a jump on the snap, making either power moves or spins more likely to succeed and giving you a path to the quarterback. If one of your linemen is an impact player, as is the case with the Cal Bears, you can wreak havoc on an offense without constantly trying to outside blitz one of your outside linebackers. This is a small feature with a huge impact on the gameplay.
[image3]The other small features are just that. A new R-stick kicking scheme works fine but adds little. As a special team's defender, you can switch to a first-person perspective, which, as far as I can tell, is difficult at best. And when returning a kick, the ball carrier is followed by an extremely close, third-person camera with no peripheral vision. Not only is getting blindsided on every kick return a little nightmarish, it's also silly that they inflict it on you during returns, but not during regular running plays. If it's too awful to be used everywhere, why include it at all?
At least the game itself runs smoothly. Whether you're pretending to go out for the night, working on your pocket presence or butchering Stanford, the load times are reasonable and the framerate never drops. The announcing team of Lee Corso, Brad Nessler and Kirk Herbstreit returns and is no better or worse than it has been for the last eon. Neither are the fight songs that provide NCAA Football 2007's soundtrack, but that's a good thing; those have always been well-suited to college football games and always will be.
And apparently, the same goes for EA. Over the past six years they've released six great college football games for current-gen systems, and that tradition doesn't end here. With the enhanced Campus Legend content, realistic momentum system, excellent "Get the Jump" mechanic and the tried-and-true core gameplay, this is another championship season from the official alma mater of college football games. Go team.


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With the DUALSCOPE® FMP100 and FMP150, Fischer offers high-performance coating thickness gauges for demanding, variable tasks. Equipped with a touchscreen and the Windows™ CE operating system, the gauges are fast and intuitive to use. The larger system memory means you can work on several thousand coating thickness measurement tasks. There are various statistical and analytical functions available for processing the results.
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In a development that will surprise no one, the Texans players who were unceremoniously cut by the team in the wake of Sunday's loss to the Chiefs had been caught doing something that plenty of players do.
According to Tania Ganguli of ESPN.com, the rules violation committed by Sam Montgomery, Cierre Wood, and Willie Jefferson consisted of the three men smoking marijuana.
Ganguli cites three unnamed sources in support of the report.
"I don't understand why they did it," linebacker Brooks Reed said. (It's unclear whether he was corroborating the report of pot smoking or referring generally to them being cut.) "They had the opportunity of their lives and they just kind of threw it away. I don't have too much to say about it. It's really unfortunate. We lost a lot of depth for that game. They were great players and they had a lot of potential. We're just going to find more guys that are more dedicated to the cause."
Agent Chad Cannon, who represents Jefferson, said that the men were smoking a cigar. Presumably containing tobacco.
"We're discussing the possibility of filing a grievance," Cannon said. "I need to be in touch with them and really figure if that's the best route to take."
It may not be the best route because fighting the decision to cut the players could make it harder for them to get jobs with other NFL teams. And it could prompt the Texans to release evidence contradicting the claim that it was a cigar. Presumably containing tobacco.
Montgomery was a third-round pick. Jefferson and Wood were undrafted. All three reportedly were unclaimed through the waivers process.
Which could make it harder for them to buy more cigars. Presumably containing tobacco.


text: Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums :: View topic - Do you have brothers or sisters? Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums"The Internet's Meeting Place for ESL/EFL Students and Teachers from Around the World!" FAQ Search Memberlist Usergroups Register Profile Log in to check your private messages Log in Do you have brothers or sisters? Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums Forum Index -> Family View previous topic :: View next topic Author Message F9750008Joined: 17 May 2009Posts: 8Location: Taiwan Posted: Thu May 21, 2009 7:53 am Post subject: Do you have brothers or sisters? Do you have brothers or sisters? If you have, tell me how do you feel,please? Thank you Back to top glenmerJoined: 20 Jul 2009Posts: 8Location: philippines Posted: Thu Aug 20, 2009 7:10 am Post subject: Yes, I have a brother and two sisters, it is great having them. A big family is merrier than with only fewer siblings, you can have a lot of help anytime when you needed it most, family would be your help when nothing else seems to care for you. You can do many things with more family members, but also prepare yourself for a conflict when disorganization will occur. glenmer_________________www.lingoes.com... it's cool! -glenmer1913 Back to top adam12Joined: 18 Nov 2009Posts: 6 Posted: Sun Nov 29, 2009 8:34 pm Post subject: I have a sister, whom I love most. If you unite, the sorrows will divide._________________Get rid of hemorrhoids Back to top Chen QiantingJoined: 25 Nov 2009Posts: 5Location: China Posted: Wed Dec 02, 2009 10:50 pm Post subject: My brother I have a brother . It feels well to have a brother . He can teach me how to do my homework , remind me about my unsuitable behavior . Sometimes , it's a little annoying that he controls me too much . And sometimes , he acts like my father . Do you have the same feelings like me? Back to top FlinaJoined: 15 Dec 2009Posts: 8 Posted: Mon Dec 21, 2009 10:10 pm Post subject: I have a sister older than me 2 years.I love her most. I can spare my though about our family with her. Back to top Display posts from previous: All Posts1 Day7 Days2 Weeks1 Month3 Months6 Months1 Year Oldest FirstNewest First Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums Forum Index -> Family All times are GMT - 8 Hours Page 1 of 1 Jump to: Select a forum Student Forums----------------ComputersCurrent NewsCultureEnglish SchoolsFamilyFilm and CinemaFoodHealth and FitnessHelp CenterHobbiesHolidaysLearning EnglishLiteratureMaking FriendsMusicOpinionsPetsScienceSportsThe Strange and MysteriousTOEFL and Other English ExamsTravel You cannot post new topics in this forumYou cannot reply to topics in this forumYou cannot edit your posts in this forumYou cannot delete your posts in this forumYou cannot vote in polls in this forum Dave's ESL Cafe is maintained by the one and only Dave Sperling. Banner Advertising | Bookstore / Alta Books | FAQs | Articles | Interview with Dave Copyright © 2018 Dave's ESL Cafe | All Rights Reserved | Contact Dave's ESL Cafe | Site Map Teachers College, Columbia University: Train to Teach English Here or Abroad Powered by phpBB © 2001, 2002 phpBB Group


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With LeBron leading the way, Cleveland looks unstoppable
Race to the MVP: King James Makes His Surge
By Kurt Walker, NBA.com
Posted Jan 31 2017 09:30PM
Surprisingly, LeBron has been flying somewhat under the radar so far this season, but following another stellar month of consistent winning from Cleveland, this is no longer the case.
Get this, the Cleveland Cavaliers have only lost 4 games in the last two months, and at the center of it all? LeBron James, who has been tearing it up on the defensive end, Averaging just under 3 steals and 2 blocks per game in the 27 game span between December and January while also flirting around with a near triple-double average at the same time.
With the second place team a staggering 10 games behind the Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference, the Cavs are all but a lock for the number one seed going into the playoffs, and we are only just about to enter February.
This is what sheer dominance looks like, folks.
And now onto this month's rankings…
1. Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City Thunder (29-19)
Stats: PPG -- 26.3; RPG -- 9.5; APG -- 9.7; SPG -- 3.4; BPG -- 0.5; FG% -- .463; 3P% -- .332; FT% -- .801
Last Month's Rank: 2
Comment: With each passing month, Westbrook is edging closer and close to that triple double average on the season. Just this month alone Westbrook has picked up 7 more triple double performances, topping his league-leading total to 14 for the season, nearly doubling that of the second place LeBron James (8). As a result of his production, the Thunder shot up the standings with a solid 11-5 month and now occupy the 5th spot in the West.
2. Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors (39-10)
Stats: PPG -- 28.9; RPG -- 6.0; APG -- 6.4; SPG -- 2.2; BPG -- 0.1; FG% -- .495; 3P% -- .418; FT% -- .914
Last Month's Rank: 1
Comment: After a red hot month of December, the reigning league MVP is going through a shooting slump, with his shooting percentages falling all the way down to 46% from the field and 35% from deep in January, dropping his season percentage to a career-worst 41.8% from three. However, he has picked up the slack with effort and hustle, picking up 3.2 steals per game on the month and helping the league-leading Warriors to a 12-4 record in January.
3. LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers (37-11)
Stats: PPG -- 23.3; RPG -- 8.6; APG -- 8.7; SPG -- 2.3; BPG -- 1.3; FG% -- .487; 3P% -- .328; FT% -- .703
Last Month's Rank: 5
Comment: Cleveland is looking nearly unstoppable right now, with multiple 30, 40 point blowouts seem commonplace. Their most impressive performance however, came early in the month during their 10 game winning streak (9 straight on the road), in which they absolutely destroyed the Hawks in Atlanta with a winning margin of 75 points (147-72), with LeBron James scoring a season high 40 points along with 14 rebounds, 12 assists, and 5 steals. With career high averages in both steals and blocks, LeBron looks to be making a run for both MVP and Defensive Player of the Year credentials this season.
4. James Harden, Houston Rockets (31-17)
Stats: PPG -- 27.5; RPG -- 6.5; APG -- 6.5; SPG -- 1.8; BPG -- 0.9; FG% -- .474; 3P% -- .451; FT% -- .864
Last Month's Rank: 4
Comment: Another good month at 10-5 for Harden and the Rockets, and the Beard has thrived as a point guard in Mike D'Antoni's system, consistently producing the goods for the Rockets, with the only outlier being a career high 58 point outburst against the Pelicans. Something tells me Houston will take those oddities in Harden's production any day of the week.
5. DeAndre Jordan, Los Angeles Clippers (32-17)
Stats: PPG -- 14.7; RPG -- 15.1; APG -- 0.6; SPG -- 0.1; BPG -- 3.0; FG% -- .671; 3P% -- .000; FT% -- .392
Last Month's Rank: 3
Comment: Chris Paul is having a down year, Griffin is still inconsistent coming off an injury, Paul Pierce is just old now but somehow the Clippers just keep winning, and it's all thanks to the consistent defensive presence of DeAndre Jordan. The league leader in both blocks and rebounds, Jordan is the early favorite to win Defensive Player of the Year honors, with the only close competitor for the award being LeBron James.
6. Kyrie Irving, Cleveland Cavaliers (37-11
Stats: PPG -- 27.1; RPG -- 3.7; APG -- 7.9; SPG -- 1.7; BPG -- 0.8; FG% -- .491; 3P% -- .461; FT% -- .924
Last Month's Rank: N/A
Comment: If LeBron is the foundation of Cleveland's success, Irving is the spark that takes them to the next level. Irving is playing through an injury (pinched nerve) right now, but somehow was able to average just under 30 points per game this past month while maintaining his efficiency from the field, and is now averaging career highs in all five major statistical categories as well as in shooting percentages on the season. In fact, if LeBron wasn't his teammate, Irving would be a lot higher up on this list right now.
7. Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio Spurs (29-18)
Stats: PPG -- 23.3; RPG -- 7.0; APG -- 3.2; SPG -- 2.5; BPG -- 0.8; FG% -- .513; 3P% -- .472; FT% -- .914
Last Month's Rank: 6
Comment: Leonard's production has fallen off just a tad this past month, with his shooting percentage from the field dipping below 48% (for the month) for the first time this season. However, he is still shooting at a ridiculous clip of just under 48% from deep, including going 8/10 from deep in his career high 38 point performance against the Chicago Bulls to cap off the month.
8. Isaiah Thomas, Boston Celtics (26-22)
Stats: PPG -- 25.9; RPG -- 3.6; APG -- 6.6; SPG -- 1.3; BPG -- 0.1; FG% -- .452; 3P% -- .408; FT% -- .850
Last Month's Rank: 10
Comment: The only knock on Thomas' case for MVP considerations was that the Celtics were not even sniffing at .500 prior to this month, and that aspect has been shattered after a fantastic month of winning from Boston, as the Cs went 11-3 for the month to propel themselves, not only to a record of over .500, but in fourth place in the Eastern Conference Standings, with the diminutive point guard leading the way at just under 28 points and 7.5 assists in that span.
9. Damian Lillard, Portland Trailblazers (29-21)
Stats: PPG -- 23.8; RPG -- 3.7; APG -- 8.5; SPG -- 1.4; BPG -- 0.3; FG% -- .454; 3P% -- .422; FT% -- .879
Last Month's Rank: N/A
Comment: It does seem like McCollum and Lillard are taking turns filling this spot, doesn't it? The Portland duo seems to be the perfect complement to each other, as one always picks up the slack when the other is not playing as well. This month in particular, it is McCollum who has slipped and Lillard responded beautifully, putting up 26.8 points and 7.9 assists on 46% shooting from both the field and from deep to maintain the Blazers in the midst of the Western Conference playoff picture.
10. Kevin Durant, Golden State Warriors (39-10)
Stats: PPG -- 23.3; RPG -- 8.0; APG -- 4.8; SPG -- 1.3; BPG -- 1.6; FG% -- .512; 3P% -- .448; FT% -- .871
Last Month's Rank: N/A
Comment: It seemed for a while that this was never going to work out well for Durant, who has looked awkward in the Golden State offense since joining them in the summer as he spotted his lowest scoring averages since his rookie season. However, it seems to be working a lot better now, with the former MVP having a breakout month with 26 points, 7.6 rebounds and just under 5 assists, shooting at a blistering clip of 54-50-90 in the 16 game span.


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We are now offering remote healthcare services with TeleVet
About VOSM
Since 2005, Veterinary Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Group (VOSM) has been committed to providing the highest quality veterinary orthopedic surgery and rehabilitative care. Since then, our services have expanded to include regenerative medicine and neurologic treatment as well.
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Through the effective integration of science, compassion, and professional integrity, we relieve pain, regain movement, restore function and promote health and wellness in your flourishing athlete, companion or working dog. We do this because we not only understand the demands that are placed on your animal — we help him meet them.
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Find out about Our Staff >


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Cooking With Kids: Food Pyramid for Preschoolers
What should your 2- to 5-year-old eat, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture? Beats me, because its website seems to have been put together by 2- to 5-year-olds, and when I tried to generate a custom pyramid for my 4-year-old daughter, all I got was "Could not download Redirect.aspx." Maybe it will work better for you: Food Pyramid for Preschoolers
I'm having a hard time understanding who this material is geared toward, other than fans of Comic Sans. According to the Chicago Tribune, "The new MyPyramid for Preschoolers is intended to help parents make better food choices for preschool children, aged 2 to 5 years—a critical time when food habits and taste preferences are established."
Think about your kids or about yourself. Most eaters age 2 to 5 are as picky as they're ever going to get: pickier than 1-year-olds, 8-year-olds, senior citizens, whatever. The critical time when food habits and taste preferences are established, it seems to me, is somewhere in the range of age 16 to 21, when people move out of their parents' house, take up vegetarianism, go off-campus for lunch at ethnic restaurants, and so on.
But it's an idea worse than dumb; it's dangerous. My daughter eats, for the most part, like a typical 4-year-old. She loves hot dogs and plain hamburgers, sweets of all kinds, teriyaki chicken with rice, salami, potstickers. With few exceptions (bok choy in the potstickers), she's not interested in vegetables. She is energetic, alert, and growing steadily.
What if I started worrying that I was missing out on this critical window for food habits? Well, we'd argue a lot. I'd dream up clever tactics to make sure she eats some broccoli before it's too late. We'd miss out the joy of sharing good food.
Not that I'm criticizing the Food Pyramid for Preschoolers, since I haven't seen it. Maybe it has a potstickers group, a teriyaki chicken group, a hot dog group, and an ice cream group.
All products linked here have been independently selected by our editors. We may earn a commission on purchases, as described in our affiliate policy.


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$4 Off Adult and Youth Cruise Tickets
$4 Off Adult and Youth Cruise Tickets
Use your Visa® card and save $4.00 per person on full price adult and youth tickets for four exciting cruises--the Golden Gate Bay Cruise, California Sunset Cruise, Bridge 2 Bridge Cruise or California Twilight Cruise.
Welcome aboard the historic Red and White Fleet - San Francisco's original sightseeing adventure since 1892. This family-owned fleet is located at Pier 43-½ in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf, offering daily sailings under the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz, narrated in 16 languages. Please visit www.redandwhite.com/cruises for a full description of these cruises.
To redeem this offer, please go to www.redandwhite.com and select your cruise. Enter coupon code VISA and then enter your desired number of tickets. You will see discounted ticket prices appear below. To redeem this offer via telephone, please dial +1-415-673-2900 and mention the coupon code VISA to get your discounted price.
- Offer is subject to availability.
- Offer is valid for 4 cruises: Golden Gate Bay Cruise, California Sunset Cruise, Bridge 2 Bridge Cruise or California Twilight Cruise.
- Discount is limited to 10 tickets/customer.
- Please always arrive at least 20-30 minutes before the scheduled departure time; we otherwise can't guarantee available space. We are unable to accommodate late arrivals.
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- For your convenience, tickets for the Golden Gate Bay Cruise and Bridge 2 Bridge Cruise are valid for the calendar year in which tickets are purchased.
- Tickets for California Sunset Cruise and California Twilight Cruise (considered public cruises) need to be reserved for a specific date and time; should you need to reschedule your cruise with us to a different date, you can do so as a one-time courtesy up to 48 hours prior to your scheduled departure by calling (415) 673-2900 or emailing us at email@example.com. Additional rescheduling will incur a fee of $20 each time. Should you miss or forego your scheduled public cruise departure, your ticket will expire and we will be unable to reschedule you for another sailing.
- Red and White Fleet® reserves the right to cancel, change or substitute any service and to decline to accept or continue to accommodate any tour members at any time for any reason including, without limitation, insufficient number of participants.
- Void where prohibited or restricted by law.
- Offer valid only when you pay with a valid Visa card.
- Any taxes are the sole responsibility of the purchaser.
- Red and White Fleet® is solely responsible for this offer.


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The one where…men have selected hearing & Roy gives us a test to find out if aliens are real
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Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Marker, cold grey IV
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Albrecht Dürer Watercolour Marker, cold grey IV
An artists´ watercolour marker is the modern definition of watercolour painting: a high-quality drawing instrument that supports both spontaneous sketching and artistic watercolour painting. The water-based ink is always ready for use and can also be completely washed out with water. The versatility of this marker is especially convincing when traveling. Those who like to hold onto impressions while on the go will be delighted to be able to turn to this pen.
Product details
- Highly pigmented artists´ marker with two tips
- Water-based, water soluble ink
- Soft brush tip for all-over colour and dynamic sketches
- Sturdy fibre tip for outlines, detailed drawings and precise lines
- Excellent watercolour effects on watercolour paper
- High lightfastness
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- Ideal for artistic work and expressive drawing
- Colour 233 cold grey IV
Made in Germany
"Made in Germany" is a seal of quality for high-end goods produced in Germany. It stands for reliability, trust and branded products with high added value.
The shafts and caps of Faber-Castell markers and fibre-tip pens are made of polypropylene (PP) to protect them from drying out quickly. Their ink will last for years.
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Metropolitan Saba Esper – Locum Tenens of Patriarch of Antioch
11. Децембар 2012 - 10:20
Metropolitan Saba (Esper) was elected Locum Tenens of the throne of the patriarchs of Antioch. The appointment came on Friday, 7 December 2012, during a meeting at Balamand monastery, some 85 kilometers north of Beirut. Metropolitan Saba has jurisdiction over the south areas of Syria. Lebanese leaders announced Sunday as an official day of mourning over the patriarch's death and described Hazim's death as a loss for Lebanon and the region.


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Holistic Education
Our signature Nine Gems™ educational framework is based on one foundational concept: the importance of providing a rounded education to students. This dynamic, holistic approach is interwoven throughout everything we do at GIIS.
Students are continually evolving, as are their learning needs. But this growth is far from limited to academics. In fact, the GIIS curriculum ensures that our students develop into well-rounded individuals -- mentally, physically, emotionally, socially, and culturally. Indeed, tomorrow's leaders require a 21st century skill set which isn't found in the average classroom. Not only do we nurture the acquisition and development of these skills, but we do so in an age-appropriate manner resulting in an optimal learning balance.
In their earlier years at GIIS, our students are taught the importance of academic excellence while simultaneously learning universal values, ethics, discipline, creativity, and personality development which stay with them during their academic years and continue throughout life. In secondary and high school, meanwhile, the GIIS curricula prioritises academic achievement, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills along with key competencies for vocational and career progression.
The integration of formal and informal learning opportunities are designed to give students more than just classroom knowledge, but also the tools to apply this knowledge in the real world. Critical thinking, interdisciplinary thinking, problem solving, and conflict resolution are all part of the "big picture" of a holistic education. The experience is further enriched through the International Knowledge Exchange Programme during which students interact with other students and teachers at our global campuses via web-conferencing.
Another innate attribute of the holistic approach? Each student's experience is tailored to meet his/her individual preferences and capabilities. Parents are also welcomed into the process; thanks to the GIIS Child Learning Tracker web portal and the myGIIS tablet app which helps them stay apprised of their child's progress throughout the comprehensive learning process, while also having the opportunity to interact online with GIIS teachers, administrators and students.
Each of these components is recognised as a "best practice," when it comes to empowering today's students into tomorrow's leaders. Although, the Nine Gems™ are about far more than best practices.
In fact, we find that the results of our Nine Gems™ methodology are much more than the sum of their parts. Students don't just learn to meet classroom challenges, but also to the challenges of life. And at a time where so many challenges and opportunities lie ahead, this holistic approach positions our students to confidently think, lead, and innovate as contributing global citizens.
Holistic Educational Approach
Our signature Nine Gems™ educational framework is based on one foundational concept: the importance of providing a rounded education to students. This dynamic, holistic approach is interwoven throughout everything we do at GIIS.
Academic Excellence
Personality Development
Universal Values & Ethics
Sports Excellence
Creativity & Innovation
Community & Care
Visual & Performing Arts
Entrepreneurship & Leadership
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Im moving forward in the song creation process. Several days ago I decided to do something with the songs Iv'e been working on in church. Im having to start over, start with an empty chalk board. I have an understanding of song form and chords.. The exploration in lyric writing is beginning. Real story telling lyrics is not easy for me. Iv'e decided to make many poem drafts until Iv'e found the words Im looking for. Its all a very good lessons.
Learning to understand: PTSD is the cause, not people. When I get triggered I blame, I attack!
The land is full of monkeys. Its about control issues. Who will be in control, who will maneuver the other guy first.
Its all to more,
Im getting a better understanding of my condition


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ROCHESTER — The man who recently pleaded guilty to animal cruelty for allowing a pinch-style collar to cause an infection in his dog's neck had to surrender his black lab as part of a negotiated plea agreement, and is prohibited from owning a dog for the next three years.
Bryon Melanson, 44, of 6 Pink St., was charged with three misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty on Aug. 2, after police found his dog, Brewski, with a wound in the back of his neck. The wound, which had become infected, was caused by a pinch-style training collar that was too tight, according to police.
Melanson has refuted the police's allegation the collar had become "embedded" into the dog's neck, while Police Sgt. Patrick Emerson told Foster's in September that the dog's "skin was actually rolled up around the collar" when police encountered the dog at Melanson's home on Aug. 1.
As part of his negotiated plea agreement, Melanson pleaded guilty to one count of animal cruelty, which alleges he allowed the collar to become embedded in the dog's neck, causing an infection.
The other two counts of animal cruelty — which pertained to the collar causing puncture wounds and Melanson using the pinch-style collar to tether the dog outside — have been placed on file without a finding, meaning the police can bring those charges forward in the future if Melanson doesn't comply with the terms of the negotiated plea agreement over the next two years, said Police Capt. Paul Toussaint.
According to the terms of his plea agreement, Melanson had to surrender his 7-year-old black lab to the Cocheco Valley Humane Society in Dover. He is also prohibited from owning a dog for the next three years, and was ordered to stay on good behavior for the next two years.
Speaking to Foster's on Wednesday, Melanson said he's concerned about the well-being of his dog, which he had raised since Brewski was a puppy.
The dog, which he described as being bouncy and happy-go-lucky, had been living primarily outside during his time with Melanson. Since Brewski has been at the Cocheco Valley Humane Society, Melanson said he has heard reports the dog has had behavioral issues, including an episode where the dog "nipped" a staff member.
On Wednesday, Melanson said he's afraid Brewski will get euthanized if he is not deemed adoptable due to his behavioral issues, which Melanson said likely stems from his new environment.
"He is definitely out of his element," said Melanson of his black lab. "The dog had not had behavioral issues when he lived here ... The dog is clearly an outside dog. He's very happy, happy-go-lucky, and now he's miserable. That's his life until he gets adopted or until they put him down."
Melanson described his plea agreement as being a "lesser of two evils," and said he couldn't afford to battle the charges against him in a trial setting. He also expressed doubt a public defense attorney would be able to adequately represent him.
While Melanson could not explain why the pinch-style collar caused puncture wounds in the dog's neck, he referred to the incident as an "unfortunate accident."
Police were initially dispatched to Melanson's home on Aug. 1 after a neighbor complained the collar was placed too tightly around the dog's neck. After police found the wound in the back of the dog's neck, Brewski was taken to an emergency veterinary clinic, where staff used bolt cutters to remove the collar, police say, and an antibiotic was prescribed to the dog for the infection.
While police say the collar was too tight around the dog's neck, Melanson said he could place the palm of his hand between the collar and the back of the dog's neck right before Brewski was taken to the emergency veterinary clinic.
According to Melanson, the pinch-style collar was used on the dog on a regular basis as a means to efficiently control the dog and prevent excessive pulling. After being charged with animal cruelty, Melanson stopped using the training collar on the dog, and instead began using a harness, he said.
Also part of Melanson's plea agreement is a 30-day suspended jail sentence — if he stays on good behavior for two years, he will not serve time in jail, said Toussaint.
Melanson said his two sons, ages 10 and 12, miss spending time with Brewski. Melanson also said he would have considered taking a jail sentence rather than surrendering the dog, depending on whether he would still be able to provide for his children and pay bills.
The Cocheco Valley Humane Society could not be reached for comment on Wednesday.


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This is the Vietnam Veterans Memorial "The Wall" on veterans day 2008. There are over 58,000 names here of the men and women the died in the Vietnam War. Each year the families and loved ones and comrades in arms come on Veterans Day to remember them. There are two other part of the memorial the statue of the three men and the statue that comprise the Vietnam Women's Memorial just a short work from "The Wall."


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Ukraine head coach Oleg Blokhin, who's something of a soccer legend in Russia, really wanted to beat the shit out of some journalists today, after his squad lost 1-0 to England and was eliminated from Euro 2012. What made the day worse for Blokhin was that Ukraine appeared to score in the 63rd minute, but the referees never ruled it a goal, despite the clear visual evidence.
When the media started doing their media thing, asking questions and what have you, after the match, Blokhin was in no mood. The video is above, queued up to the part where Blokhin gets testy, but here's what the translation looks like:
"We scored a clean goal in the 63rd minute, as the ball crossed the goal line by over a metre.
"What can I say? There are five refs on the pitch and the ball was over the line. Why do we need five refs then? Devic scored a goal and I don't know why it wasn't allowed.
"We had rotten luck tonight because the ball was not willing to go into the goal and England were lucky to score."
Blokhin then lost his temper with a journalist and said: "Let's go outside and have a man conversation.
"Have you ever played? You write what you like. You don't like my team or me. I understand you are a journalist. You should respect me."
Blokhin actually has a history of lashing out at reporters for no apparent reason. Several years ago, as coach of Moscow FC, Blokhin had a heated confrontation with the media, who dared film his practices.
In fact, Blohkin erupted at the Euro 2012 media just yesterday when they were asking about the health of striker Andriy Shevchenko:
"Let's call Shevchenko and ask Shevchenko," snapped Blokhin. "I don't have only Shevchenko in my team. I don't look good in front of my players if I talk only about Shevchenko, his career and his private life."
Ukraine have never won in six games they have played in Donetsk but Blokhin said: "We can lose in every stadium. We should break this tradition. It will surely happen and we will win a game in this stadium.
"The team of England are good. They are supposed to be very strong. For us, it's different. I think England will be more nervous than us. We have nothing to lose. We can only win. ..."


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(Updated: 3/29/13 Texas Attorney General, Greg Abbott has now promised a full investigation of TESCCC and CSCOPE.)
As a retired Texas pubic school teacher, the recent concerns being raised over CSCOPE curriculum sparked my interest.
I wanted to know more about the business side of CSCOPE, so I filed a Public Information Request for the meeting minutes of their governing board. Instead of finding answers, all I found were more questions.
#1 – If a State agency used tax dollars to develop a product, doesn't the product belong to the People of Texas?
Texas Education Service Center Curriculum Collaborative (TESCCC)'s own attorney gives this CSCOPE background:
TESCCC was originally established as a collaborative of several of the Education Service Centers (ESC) in Texas with the stated purpose to provide high quality curriculum and instruction materials, resources, and professional development for Texas public school districts. Subsequently, TESCCC developed CSCOPE which is a comprehensive, user friendly, curriculum support system. As CSCOPE became widely used among Texas school districts, it was necessary for TESCCC to formally organize itself to better protect its intellectual property and serve its customers. Now, TESCCC is a non-profit corporation organized under the Texas Business Organization Code. TESCCC was incorporated in 2009 and was granted non-profit status under 501©(3) of the Internal Revenue Code …Today 816 of the approximately 1230 Texas public school Districts and charter school systems use the CSCOPE product. Although the Attorney General's office determined in OR2012-04869 dated April 4, 2012 that TESCCC was subject to the Public Information Act, TESCCC operates in every other way as a private corporation.Public funds paid for the development of CSCOPE. TESCCC is a committee of paid State employees. How can paid employees of a state agency simply transfer ownership of CSCOPE from the People of Texas to a private corporation? Were The People compensated at fair market value for CSCOPE or did TESCCC simply claim eminent domain?
Did the 19 ESC Executive Directors who make up the TESCCC have votes of approval from the 19 elected ESC boards that oversee them? Did TESCCC get written approval from the Commissioner of Education before transferring State property to a private corporation?
#2 – What is TESCC trying to hide?
In April of 2012, the Texas Attorney General ruled that CSCOPE's governing board, TESCCC, is a "governmental body." A quote from the ruling:
… upon, review we conclude that the collaborative is funded through public funds, and the collaborative is governed by governmental bodies, namely the member ESCs through its governing board…Accordingly, we conclude that the collaborative falls within the definition of a "governmental body" under section 552.003(1)(A)(xii) of the Government Code.
But TESCCC refused to release all their meeting minutes. Instead, they went back to the Attorney General for another ruling claiming :
…when read as a whole, the minutes TESCCC seeks to withhold offer insight into how the board operates …access into the inner-workings of the organization and how it makes decisions…
REALLY??? They paid a lawyer to write this???
Isn't that the true purpose behind open meetings and open records? Giving the public insight into how governmental boards operate and how decisions are made?
In fact, Texas law specifically states:
§ 551.022. The minutes and tape recordings of an open meeting are public records and shall be available forI didn't ask for anything from closed sessions, simply the minutes from meetings I could legally have taped myself. What is in those minutes that State employees are afraid the people who pay their salaries will find out? What are they going to so much trouble to hide?
public inspection and copying on request to the governmental body's chief administrative officer
or the officer's designee.
#3. Have TESCCC meetings been legally posted?
Texas laws are very specific about the posting of public meetings.
Two that appear to apply to TESCCC are:
§ 551.041. A governmental body shall give written notice of the date, hour, place, and subject of each meeting held by the governmental body
§ 551.044. Governmental Body With Statewide Jurisdiction (a) The secretary of state must post notice on the Internet of a meeting of a state board,Yet, a search of the Open Meeting Archive on the Texas SOS website shows no record of TESCCC meetings ever being posted.
commission, department, or officer having statewide jurisdiction for at least seven days before the day of the meeting. ..
The law goes on to read:
§ 551.141. An action taken by a governmental body in violation of this chapter is voidable.
If the TESCCC board meetings have not been legally posted with the SOS, who is responsible for voiding TESCCC's actions and stepping in to oversee the millions of dollars in public funds they control? The Commissioner of Education? The State Comptroller? The SOS? The AG? The Legislature? Who is watching out for the People?
§ 551.142. (a) An interested person, including a member of the news media, may bring an action by mandamus or injunction to stop, prevent, or reverse a violation or threatened violation of this chapter by
members of a governmental body.
(After the Texas State Senate Education Committee held a public hearing on CSCOPE 1/31/13, TESCCC held its first publicly posted meeting on 2/18/13.)
(Texas Attorney General, Greg Abbott, has promised a full investigation into TESCCC and CSCOPE.)
#4. Should employees of the State of Texas be doing work for a private corporation while being paid by the taxpayers to work for the State?
In the letter TESCCC's attorney sent to the AG to block release of their meeting minutes he states:
Although the Attorney General's office determined…that TESCCC was subject to the Public Information Act, TESCCC operates in every other way as a private corporation…Really? A private corporation and not an extension of Texas Educational Service Centers? Then…
- why do job postings at ESC13 read,"Serve as representative of the Texas Education Service Center Curriculum Collaborative (TESCCC) and ESC Region XIII"?
- why is the State Director of CSCOPE, who works for TESCCC, listed as "staff" at ESC 13?
- why does his job description read: "Serve as a representative of the Center and TESCCC." ?
- why is his email address on a tax supported website and not a corporate site? email@example.com
- why does he have the same email and phone number as he did when he was presenting a Block Scheduling seminar for ESC13 in 2007?
- why did the link to register for the TESCCC sponsored state conference in 2012 go the tax supported ESC13 website instead of a corporate site? http://ecampus.esc13.net
- why does a reply for a request for public information sent to TESCCC get returned from:
Mason Moses Public Information Officer
Texas System of Education Service Centers
Office: 512-919-5349
Fax: 512-919-5232 ???
But more importantly, who is keeping track of the hours State ESC employees are spending developing a product owned by a private corporation?
Some excerpts from TESCCC minutes show that State ESC employees are doing TESCCC work on taxpayer time.
10-11-10 TESCCC Governing Board Meeting @ ESC 13
J. Vasquez (Ex Dir ESC19)commented that 2/3 of his staff have been tied down with CSCOPE work at this point in time…C.Bayuk commented that it is better for ESC staff to be part of the development process and not just have contracted personnel…she encouraged a model where each member ESC devotes staff to some degree throughout the development process
8/6/12 TESCCC Governing Board Meeting @ ESC 13Meeting minutes also show that the TESCCC board meetings coincide with the State CCRS meetings. It appears that ESC directors travel to Austin for the TESCCC meetings using travel allowed for CCRS. Does that mean pubic funds are paying salaries and travel to benefit a private corporation? The two meetings are so intertwined that…
A. Poplin (Ex Dir ESC9) added that her own secretary has taken on a lot of CSCOPE work since there is no administrative support for W. Labay or the State Office in general.
- on 2/14/2012 the TESCCC minutes read: "J. Bass stated that the date of the next CCRS meeting will dictate the date of the next Governing Board meeting."
- on 8/8/11 the TRSCCC minutes read: "Adjourned at 11:37am and reconvened at 3:58pm after CCRS meeting."
- on 5/7/12 the TESCCC minutes read: "Approval of the ESC Public Information Specialist position - postpone that for CCRS"
What private corporation has the approval of a State Agency Public Information Officer position on its agenda???
Minutes also show that ESC13 is listed as the "fiscal agent" for TESCCC and the TESCCC State Staff is housed at ESC13. Does that mean employees of a private corporation are able to earn state employee benefits like state sick leave credits and/or state retirement credits because they are paid via ESC13?
Does TESCCC provide an extra stipend to its board members or do the taxpayers pick up the entire tab for their extra work on the TESCCC Board, its committees and CSCOPE?
(Texas Attorney General, Greg Abbott, has promised a full investigation into TESCCC and CSCOPE.)
#5 – Should State agencies use tax dollars to operate businesses to compete with private enterprise?
Should 19 State employees be allowed to operate a private corporation inside a Texas State agency and block the taxpayers from information on what they are doing? Is it really saving taxpayers money when the taxpayers are the investors, the debt holders and the clients?
TESCCC meeting minutes state:
…approximately $4.1 million to develop CSCOPE from the beginning…based from the work done for the FAST Report of 2010. However, the costs would have increased since new components have been added and that original estimate was completed in 2010.
Plus it appears that each participating ESC pays TESCCC:
- "one flat rate amount" to join TESCCC and earn the right to sell CSCOPE,
- another annual "flat rate amount",
- 12-14% of their CSCOPE revenue each year based on $7.oo per ADA
- plus 12% recapture amount from NER back to TESCCC based on invoiced costs (minutes 3/31/11 +5/9/11)
Does this mean that:
- A State agency used State funds to develop CSCOPE…
- State employees gave CSCOPE to a private corporation….
- State taxpayers pay the salaries of the board who runs it and the directors who oversee it….
- State taxpayers pay yearly fees for the right to sell it to local taxpayers…
- Local taxpayers pay for their school districts to use it…
- And a private corporation gets the "profits"…????
What a racket…and just think of all the State employee expenses and benefits the taxpayers are covering along the way.
(Texas Attorney General, Greg Abbott, has promised a full investigation into TESCCC and CSCOPE.)
Why does it have to be so complicated? Why can't the school districts just buy CSCOPE from an ESC like other products?
Could the answer be in the spirit of Texas Education Code Sec 8.056 which places limits on the ESCs charging school districts more than their administrative costs as well as restrictions on ESCs retaining profits in certain situations?
It appears from the TESCCC minutes that in 2011,
- the school districts paid their local ESC for CSCOPE
- the ESC paid NER (National Education Resources, Inc)
- NER sent TESCCC back 12%
With monies moving around this way, the ESCs don't technically charge above their administrative costs and don't technically keep any "profits." It is technically a "private corporation" that keeps the "profits."
Just how much "profit" are we talking about?
TESCCC incorporated in 2009 and claims their fund balance on 8/8/11 was $1.8 million. That means TESCCC nets an average of $900,000 per year. Not a bad "profit" for a "non-profit."
But, beyond the money aspect is the question of "competitive advantage."
TESCCC argues that they should not have to release meeting minutes to the taxpayers for a number of reasons, two being…
- TECSSS could lose its competitive advantage over its for-profit competitors and
- TESCCC will suffer specific harm if its RFP process, how it maintains its vendor relationships, and how strategic decisions are made for the development of CSCOPE are known
Just what do the TESCCC meeting minutes tell us about their management?……
Read on in Part II….
Colleen Vera


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World's first mapping of America's rare plants
The results of a major international research project show that climate stability plays a crucial role in the distribution of plants on Earth. Rare species in the Americas are restricted to areas of California, Mexico, the Caribbean islands, parts of the Andes mountains, the south of South America, and the region around Rio de Janeiro. The flora in most of North America and the Amazon basin, however, are dominated by widespread species.
In collaboration with international colleagues, a research group at Aarhus University, Denmark, has contributed to the compilation of the most comprehensive botanical data set to date. PhD student Naia Morueta-Holme and her supervisor, Professor Jens-Christian Svenning, Department of Bioscience, spearheaded the analysis that reveals where rare species are found in the New World (North and South America) and the factors that determine whether a region is dominated by widespread or rare species.
"The study shows that especially California, Mexico, the Caribbean islands, parts of the Andes, the south of South America, and the region around Rio de Janeiro are dominated by rare species. This came as a surprise to us, because the regions are very different in terms of climate and vegetation type. They include habitats such as wet tropical rainforests, dry subtropical regions, and even deserts, tropical mountains, and cool temperate grasslands and forests," says Professor Svenning.
However, the studies show that consistent processes are driving the distribution of the plants.
"There are two factors in particular that are important for the distribution of the rare species. Firstly, a stable climate with relatively small seasonal differences, where the climate has remained much the same for tens of thousands of years. Secondly, only small areas of habitat are involved. The species are unable to spread, but the stability nevertheless enables them to survive for long periods of time, and to develop and specialise in the same place," explains Naia Morueta-Holme.
In large areas in the north of North America, on the other hand, the seasons vary significantly, and there have been distinct climate changes between ice ages (glacials) and warm ages (interglacials). Widespread species are dominant here, either because they can withstand a wide range climate conditions or because they are good at dispersing and can track changes in climate over time. They can thus spread over the large habitat areas available.
Rare species threatened by climate change
In terms of the dominance of rare species, the close link between the size of the habitat area and a stable climate is of great concern regarding the impact of human-induced climate changes now prevailing in these regions.
"Even though we're expecting less climate change in the areas dominated by rare species than in North America, for example, it could well be that future changes may be beyond what the species can tolerate. Our results show that climate change will no doubt have serious consequences for some of the most biodiverse areas in the world, which are also threatened by increasing land-use changes of natural areas," says Naia Morueta-Holme.
Big data will revolutionise our knowledge
The group responsible for the project is called the Botanical Information and Ecology Network (BIEN). After more than five years of work, they have reached their goal: to provide the world's largest data set to date of all the plants in the New World. Right now, the database contains more than 20 million records of approximately 250,000 species, and more are being added. This study is the first to be published by the project.
"We've finally got a place where we can gather all the records and create an overview of where New World plant species are located. This unique data set provides us with an opportunity to fundamentally understand what determines the current diversity and distribution of plants. We're now better able to predict how species, vegetation and even agricultural crops will react to environmental change. This improves our chances of taking the necessary management measures to avoid negative consequences," explains Naia Morueta-Holme.
The study entitled Habitat area and climate stability determine geographical variation in plant species range sizes was published in Ecology Letters, which is the highest-ranked journal for publishing results within ecology research.
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