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Yes it was. I'm ashamed to say I visited that board. lol
hey tripping thankyou for all your hard work. I am becoming more of a news junkie than carpenter and cub jockey ,I have great respect for yours and bills diligence. On the financials we have done well but we dont stay in for any length of time we have bought anywhere between 20000shrs to 100000shr blocks and bought close to 52 week lows and sold just between making money and greed I am currently hung up in sirius but not at all disappointed in the results great process.Thanxs again
Hey Tripping,
Check your private messages!!!
Senior Member


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Printing press, telephone, light bulb—a trio of vital inventions that long ago transformed commerce and lifestyle. In the 21st century, it is computer technology that's revolutionizing world business and culture. Are you keeping up in this era of sweeping, powerful change?
For financial advisors, digital technology offers a wealth of new opportunities for increased productivity and efficiency and, increasingly, the ability to grow their practice. The long-scoffed-at notion of the paperless office is becoming more and more a reality. In fact, mobile devices are even pulling us toward the "officeless office," allowing FAs to connect with clients and staff from anywhere, at any time.
But here's the thing: Cutting-edge, gee-whiz tech is only as valuable as your needs dictate: The gear makes sense only if it will help improve systems or accomplish something you can't do without it.
"The key is leveraging technology to support your business, not to chase it just for the sake of it. There's always something newer around the corner with more bells and whistles—but you cannot allow the new toys to derail the bigger mission," says Bella Allaire, executive vice president and head of operations and technology at Raymond James. Last year, the St. Petersburg, Fla.-based firm picked up a Bank Insurance & Securities Association technology award for its advisor-celebrated "Goal Planning and Monitoring" software system.
To be sure, the latest and greatest is cool and seductive. Google Glass, Internet-connected computer eyewear, is a tantalizing idea. And beyond smartphones and tablet computers are voice-controlled smart-watches that serve up messages and take photos. Software storage in the cloud has an imaginative, fanciful ring. And the allure of social media has been generated partly by prominent Twitter users, from Puff Daddy to Pope Francis.
Not Magic
The fact is, however, that technology is simply an enabler: You must first set up your business to accommodate it—then reap the rewards.
"A lot of advisors buy technology and expect it to magically change their practice. But that's not how it works," says Michael Kitces, a partner and director of research at Pinnacle Advisory Group in Columbia, Md. "What advisors need to do is first structure their practice in a way they can use the technology. If you buy the latest fancy gadget, that doesn't require you to change. The real value comes when you change what you're doing and then the technology helps you do it better."
Perhaps high tech's biggest benefit is the capability to provide scalability. This means that advisors can serve more clients and pack more prospects into the pipeline without needing to hire additional staff. Thus, much of today's tech allows FAs to be dramatically more efficient and productive and, far from least, furnish a significantly better client experience.
Web-based software stored in the cloud is delivered via the Internet. This saves time and, best of all, the cost and worry of maintaining a server—computer hardware—in your office. Instead, software is outsourced to platform providers, like Amazon, Google and Rackspace, who run the servers in the cloud. You can access your programs from any location.
"Full-time IT staff and tech support is expensive. Now advisors can just open their iPad and connect to a server from anywhere and conduct business safely and securely," says tech consultant Bill Winterberg, a CFP and founder of FP Pad, based in Atlanta.
Still, every form of technology, including increasingly popular cloud technologies, should be evaluated according to specific needs.
"Cloud-based technology is extremely promising, offering new capabilities that are rapidly scalable and easily deployed at attractive price points," Allaire says. "But not all cloud solutions suit all requirements. However, when they do, we take advantage."
One of the more enticing new client relationship management (CRM) Web-based software enhancements is a social information and "collaboration" feature that connects to clients' social networking profiles, including Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. It automatically aggregates clients' posts, which FAs can then view right in their CRM system while reviewing accounts.
"That allows advisors to stay in touch with what's happening with clients and bring up [such matters] when they speak with them. It helps build a deeper, stickier relationship," Winterberg says. "And understanding what's important to the client influences their financial plan and wealth management strategy."
Financial-planning software that lets advisors take a more engaging, interactive approach with clients certainly can be helpful. Using it with big-screen TV in your conference room, perhaps, you can conduct "what-ifs" with clients, changing numbers on the spot.
"Because they're able to ask plenty of questions," Kitces notes, "clients get better buy-in."
Designed to boost advisor efficiency, new portfolio rebalancing and trade-order-management software is a big time-saver. It lets FAs rebalance hundreds, if not thousands, of accounts in only an hour, according to Winterberg.
With other new programs, advisors can view client accounts that are held away, such as an employer 401(k) plan. The FA sees each position and is able to monitor performance. Clearly, this helps to provide a more comprehensive wealth picture and, potentially, a better overall plan.
Mobile devices help heighten productivity for on-the-go advisors, but be sure yours has capability to access email and client records from your server in the office or in the cloud.
Everybody, it seems, is text-messaging nowadays. Some advisors even text with clients. But if they're employed by or affiliated with the many BDs that prohibit this, "they're skirting compliance law," Winterberg cautions. He says that most BDs haven't embraced texting because of prohibitive archiving costs.
What is imperative when it comes to tech is integrating the software programs you use. That is, be sure they can "talk" to one another. For example, by integrating financial-planning software and mobile devices with your CRM, you avoid the need to repeatedly enter client contact information and other vitals into each program. Benefit: huge time savings, lower potential for error and less frustration.
"Integration drives adoption," stresses Allaire. "If you buy a standalone, don't integrate it and nobody is using it because it's difficult, you have just wasted money."
The "biggest reason" for the success of Raymond James' interactive "Goal Planning & Monitoring" software was its "seamless integration," Allaire says. Introduced about a year-and-a-half ago, the tool enhances the advisor-client retirement-planning conversation by, for instance, showing how changes in one aspect of a plan can "move the needle into danger or safe zones," Allaire notes. To date, more than $22 billion in outside assets have been identified by RJ FAs who use this software, which was purchased from a vendor that worked closely with the firm on integration.
Many BDs and FAs have slowly begun to adopt social media. One advisor with Morgan Stanley—a pioneer in permitting FAs to use social—even netted a $70 million account by trolling for quality prospects on LinkedIn. Indeed, prospecting online in places target clients spend time can be an effective way to use these media—but as only one facet of a fully rounded marketing strategy.
Another online approach for prospecting and communicating with existing clients is to create videos and distribute them in, say, email newsletters or as posts to your website or blog. It costs zero to use your phone to "shoot" videos. Professionally produced, they are typically priced starting at a few hundred dollars. Submitting a script to Compliance in advance should prevent potential do-over headaches.
"If an advisor doesn't have an online presence, they're simply missing out on all the people who use the Internet for financial" information, says Cliff Goldstein, San Francisco-based manager of NerdWallet's "Ask an Advisor" platform, to which more than 650 FAs have signed on to answer questions and post their profiles.
"With investors' general erosion of trust," Goldstein notes, "the more that advisors are able to connect with consumers and demonstrate their personality and expertise, the more they can get out from behind the industry's curtain of mystery that investors sometimes perceive."
Robot Dawn?
To be sure, new technology and innovative enhancements are unveiled at a fast clip; but that doesn't mean advisors should jump on them just because they're available. In fact, Fidelity's 2013 RIA Benchmarking Study found that "high-performing firms are focusing on more effectively harnessing the technology they have instead of chasing the very latest innovations."
Yet, many FAs worry: Will technology ultimately replace them with a world of robo-advisors? Short answer: No.
"In a competition between advisors and robo-advisors, the real winner may be the technology-augmented human—the 'cyborg' advisor—part-human, part-technology," Kitces opined recently on his "Nerd's Eye View" blog. "Technology can augment the [advisor-client] relationship but not replace it," he wrote. Nonetheless, Kitces warns that advisors would do well to "stay ahead of the technology commoditization curve since clients will pay only so much for the relationship alone."
As for Luddite FAs who lag in tech adoption or are confident they'll continue to do fine without investing in it, Winterberg sketches a somber scenario: "If advisors are not embracing this technology, in five to 10 years, when Gens X and Y will be [inheriting] trillions from their baby boomer parents, that next generation of clients won't be interested in working with them. As the transition takes place, it is the advisors who are tech-savvy that will attract clients; advisors who aren't, will get skipped."
Moreover, tech-shy FAs planning to sell their businesses at retirement will be at an enormous disadvantage. Client records on paper stored in filing cabinets affect selling prices— negatively. Buyers size up as unprofitable practices that have no tech to drive efficiencies and productivity.
"Your firm is worth much more if you use an electronic CRM system, [computerized] portfolio reporting and rebalancing software," Winterberg says. "You get a higher premium and a higher multiple."
Beware the inevitable. Says Kitces: "Technology starts to matter a lot if you're concerned about growing your business and selling your practice. Advisors who don't adopt technology and just wind down their practices till they drop dead are going to die with their boots on."
Technophile: Jason Wenk
A teen techie hooked on computers from the inside out, Jason Wenk and his fascination with bits and bytes grew into the millennial's helming a full-service online advisory serving clients anywhere, anytime.
Nearly four years ago, the fee-only RIA, 33, morphed his brick-and-mortar storefront practice into a virtual model in which everything—from prospecting to account acquisition to portfolio management and client reviews—is computer- or Web-driven.
What may be surprising is that all the tech he uses is affordably priced and, hence, extremely cost-effective.
"Because of technology, our 25-member team can do the work of 35 people. [Salaries] for 10 additional employees would be far greater than the cost of the technology. Our return on tech investment is therefore substantial," says Wenk, president and founder of Retirement Wealth Advisors.
When the FA made the big move, his AUM was at $110 million; now it's up to more than $300 million.
Wenk's wall-to-wall transformation was lifestyle-driven. The former Morgan Stanley advisor was running his own RIA in Michigan for five years. But he longed to move himself and his family out of cold, dreary Grand Rapids. Why not decamp to sun-drenched Southern California? Great idea! Now Wenk works out of Laguna Beach, an artsy coastal city south of Los Angeles. The rest of his team members, including other FAs, are scattered around the country. The back-office staff remains located in Michigan.
Wenk acquires new clients mainly through online content marketing, in which he blogs answers to questions he knows ideal prospects crave. For instance, "Should I change from a SEP-IRA to a 401(k) for my small business?" Because his answers carefully incorporate many of the same "key" words of the question, it is likely to pop up high in a potential client's search findings.
"You're allowing yourself to be found by providing valuable content," he says. "But to make content marketing work, it's important to actually provide help, not just use it as a lead-generation tool and glorified sales pitch."
Most of Wenk's software is Web-based and cloud-powered, and can be used with mobile devices. Portfolio management is automated, but the implementation is customized and based on client goals and risk tolerance.
The advisor picks up a wealth of useful client and prospect information with a "social collaboration" tool that connects with his CRM and automatically sends him targeted LinkedIn and Twitter profile posts.
He sets all appointments with a self-service online calendar linked to the CRM and holds client meetings on a couple of easy-to-use Skype-like video services.
Says the tech-centric FA, bred in tiny New Era, Mich.: "We find that in order to offer our advice to clients all over the country, it really doesn't matter where we're located." —JWR

subset: commoncrawl


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The words from Mayor Bloomberg's oath of office had barely faded from the rarified air around City Hall before his challenger in the election was announcing his intention to again run for mayor - in four more years!
We took an informal poll around the Pol Position office, and we could hardly find anyone who was sure what they would be doing four days from now, let alone four years.
We find the timing of Thompson's announcement a little odd. Before he announced that he would be running for mayor again, there were a lot of rumors and general scuttlebutt - dare we even say buzz - about what the future would hold for William Thompson.
Would he run for a statewide office, possibly vying to replace Andrew Cuomo as attorney general should he run for governor? Or would he really try to take it to the next level and run for Congress? Well, Thompson managed to squash all of that talk with his slip of the lip.
Now, we have no reason to talk about Bill Thompson for at least the next three years until the campaign season starts. Whereas reporters would have been following him around inquiring incessantly - or at the very least inquiring from time to time - about his future political ambitions, now they have no need.
Thompson could have been a regular guest on City Hall Live as a political expert/insider, the folks over at The Politicker would have hounded him on the street with a video camera, and we would have poked fun at him on a regular basis, but at least his name would have been in the news.
Likewise, how can anybody take anything that Thompson says seriously? Now, whatever he says publicly, especially if it is critical of the Bloomberg administration, will just be seen as a campaign fodder. And it's not like his announcement necessarily helps with fundraising, he could have still raised money for a future campaign without actually declaring what public office he would seek with the cash. Just ask John Liu, who managed to raise literally millions of dollars without ever stating his intent to run for city comptroller.
So long Bill, see you in four years.


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They found him. Gunshot wound to the chest on his birthday. Although, it makes sense, his heart was what hurt the most. His wife passed away four years ago in a car accident. He was the one driving the car… He had sold his house two weeks before he took his life. He wanted to move out of the city and on with his life. But, with no job prospects and no real friends anywhere else, he must have lost all hope. Deep down, we all knew this day would come; we just thought it would have happened shortly after she died, not now.
My uncle Steve is was an introverted, angry man. He didn't like the outside world. When he met and married my aunt, his second wife, new life was pumped into his veins. He turned himself around, started going to parties, meeting people, and he even thought about having children! He said and did things he, and we, never thought he would do. But, when he accidently hit the other car that caused her death; he also died. The spark she implanted in him was gone; he went back to his old ways, hating the world and everyone in it. Each year that he remained alive, we considered ourselves lucky.
The last time I saw him was the day before his birthday. We were at a family gathering at my grandmothers. It was to celebrate her birthday, as well as his. He retreated to the living room for most of his time there, and when he was in the kitchen, he wouldn't talk to anyone. All he wanted to do was play with his smart phone. When my grandmother talked to him, he answered her with a strong tongue and boiling anger in his eyes. No one could say or do anything to please him at this point.
I didn't even bother trying to talk to him for fear that he would lash out at me. In fact, in all the years that we've been family, I've never said more than a few sentences to him. He wasn't the type of uncle to show up at your high school play, take you out for ice cream, or make small talk. He was a man who just wanted to be left alone.
Sure, I could cry my heart out, take off of work for a few weeks, and preach to everyone about how you need to, "hold you loved ones close." But, I can't. I've never loved this man. To me, this isn't a heartbreaking loss.
In fact, this isn't a loss at all. My uncle did not die; he's very much alive. Today he turns another year older…and colder, that is true. And, as I sat near him the other day, not speaking a word, I was reminded of how awful of a person I truly am. I realized in that moment that the man sitting near me is a man I've known my whole life; but he's been nothing but a stranger. I realized that if he died tomorrow, even from suicide, it would not have a major impact on me. Sure, I would feel awful. No one deserves to die, no matter what the cause! And, no one deserves to feel alone. But, to me, it wouldn't feel like a major loss. I can honestly say that it would hurt more if my dog died than if he passed away.
Four years ago, this was where my family found themselves; on suicide watch for my uncle. It's awful to admit that someone who is supposed to be such a huge part of your life doesn't matter to you. Writing those words, "It would hurt more if my dog died than if he passed away" makes me feel like a terrible person, but I know deep down that I'm being true to myself. Although, sometimes, we have to admit that even those people in our lives who are supposed to be family and the closest humans to us, mean zilch. That is why we all must create our own "families." "Families" that are made up of blood relations, friends, acquaintances, dogs, cats, etc. "Plant your own seeds and grown your own garden because you have the power to choose who you become and who is allowed to influence you along the way."
Granny Smith – over and out


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Right Now
A North Idaho PAC for Positive Impact
Balance North Idaho is a Political Action Committee created to endorse and promote candidates and issues in local non-partisan elections. Endorsements will be made using facts, qualifications, and a structured interview and evaluation process, not political party. Candidates will be evaluated based on their goals, experience, qualifications, and community focus. Issues will be evaluated based on their benefit to the community while weighing a variety of other factors, including financial impact. In all regards, Balance North Idaho's recommendations will aim to be fiscally responsible and promote candidates and issues that will have a positive impact on the growth and development of Coeur d'Alene and Kootenai County.
© 2013 balance north idaho pac


text: 15 selections of some of J.S. Bach's most treasured compositions in accessible arrangements for budding instrumentalists with online demo and backing tracks for download or streaming with the popular Playback + features allowing the player to adjust pitch, change keys, slow down audio, and more. Pieces include Adagio, Bist Du Bei Mir, Bourrée in E Minor, Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring, Minuet in G Major, Polonaise in G Minor, Sheep May Safely Graze, Sleepers, Awake (Wachet Auf) and more.


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By Bonnie K. Goodman
Ms. Goodman is the Editor of History Musings. She has a BA in History & Art History & a Masters in Library and Information Studies from McGill University, and has done graduate work in history at Concordia University.
Rick Santorum, Michele Bachmann, Newt Gingrich, Mitt Romney, Ron Paul, Tim Pawlenty and Herman Cain at the debate
- Live Blogging the G.O.P. Debate in New Hampshire – NYT, 6-13-11
- Live blogging GOP presidential debate in New Hampshire: We are live blogging tonight's GOP presidential debate in New Hampshire, being held at Saint Anselm College. Mitt Romney, Newt Gingrich, Tim Pawlenty, Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain, Ron Paul and Rick Santorum are participating.
The two-hour debate is sponsored by CNN, WMUR and The Union Leader. CNN's John King is the moderator…. – USA Today, 6-13
- Factbox: Republican White House contenders in 2012 – Reuters, 6-13-11
- Fact Checking the Republican Debate: As they debated the economic downturn and health care, the Republican candidates who faced off Monday night in New Hampshire sometimes let spin run ahead of the facts…. – NYT, 6-13-11
- The top five takeaways from the GOP debate: After two hours of talk and lots of interruptions from a moderator, here are the five things you need to know from tonight's GOP debate:
1. Bottom line: This debate was about Barack Obama: There was a lot of speculation going in that the candidates would start slugging it out with one another to break out of the pack. Not tonight. It was Republicans United vs. Obama. Here's a sample of what they said about the President: "He's failed at a time when the American people counted on him to create jobs and get the economy growing." (Mitt Romney) "The Obama administration is an anti-jobs, anti-business, anti-American energy destructive force." (Newt Gingrich) "Just make no mistake about it. I want to announce tonight. President Obama is a one-term president." (Michele Bachmann)
2. Mitt Romney maintains his status
3. Tim Pawlenty blinked
4. America, Meet Michele Bachmann
5. The other candidates did what they could –
CBS News, 6-13-11
- E.J. Dionne Jr: GOP debate winner: Michele Bachmann: I didn't expect to think that Michele Bachmann would be the big winner of tonight's Republican debate in New Hampshire, but that seemed the obvious conclusion. She was at ease and forceful without looking at all crazy or out-of-control. It's a sign of how far to the right the Republican Party has moved that she didn't stand out for her extreme views. On this stage, suggesting we should just rid ourselves of the Environmental Protection Agency seemed par for the course.
Mitt Romney did not lose anything tonight, which means that, since he leads in the polls in New Hampshire, he is a kind of winner. And on substance, his forceful defense of religious liberty was actually a high point. I agree with a view that is becoming widespread on the web – Chris Cillizza and Jennifer Rubin made this point in their winner-and-losers wrap-ups – that it was strange or timid for Tim Pawlenty not to be willing to back up his Sunday attack on "Obamneycare" with any force tonight. Either you want to take that fight on or you don't…. – WaPo, 6-13-11
- Bachmann stands out in CNN debate: During tonight's presidential candidate debate, CNN moderator John King posed a series of "this or that" questions to the candidates. These "Coke or Pepsi," type questions were light moments in a debate that also presented voters with a lot of "this or that" choices among the candidates….
Overall: It comes down to Romney or Bachmann. He's still the front-runner and didn't hurt himself. That's enough for some to declare him the winner. But Bachmann had far more to gain from this debate in introducing herself to voters and she took full advantage of the chance. She's the winner. – Des Moines Register, 6-13-11
- The Mitt and Michele Show: Romney showed front-runner status, while Bachmann proved she belonged on stage. Mark McKinnon on why they shone-and the rest of the debaters flopped Monday night.
The two clear winners in the GOP debate hosted Monday night in New Hampshire were former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney and Rep. Michele Bachmann of Minnesota. Political debates are all about expectations. Mitt Romney had more than anyone to lose. Michele Bachmann had more than anyone to gain. Romney deftly fended off attacks particularly on health care, and Bachmann proved she's smart and credible, and has every right to be on the stage…. – The Daily Beast, 6-13-11
- Republican presidential candidates attend first debate: The leading contenders for the 2012 Republican presidential nomination appeared together onstage for the first time Monday. But they used the debate to train their fire on President Obama rather than to define their differences.
Given opportunities to critique one another's stances, the seven competitors repeatedly deflected the questions during the first hour to attacks on the president….
The biggest surprise of the evening was the announcement by Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-Minn.) that she has filed the paperwork to begin her campaign. She had previously indicated that she would not make a formal announcement until later this month.
The debate, held at St. Anselm College, was officially the second of the primary campaign season. But only five candidates showed up last month in South Carolina, and with the exception of Pawlenty, they were all long-shots.
Monday's forum included nearly all the leading candidates. But most of them remain largely unknown nationally, a factor that could explain their reluctance to go at one another. At this early stage, they are introducing themselves to a nationwide audience, and testing their competitors' strengths and vulnerabilities.
It is a Republican field unlike any other in generations, in which none of the contenders has been able to establish himself or herself as an overwhelming favorite. In the normal order of things, Romney would hold that poll position, by virtue of his organization, his fundraising network and the exposure he received from his 2008 run for the nomination…. – WaPo, 6-13-11
- 7 in G.O.P. Square Off, 7 Months From First Vote: Opening a new phase in a race that is unusually unsettled for a party once famous for its discipline, seven Republican presidential candidates met Monday night in their highest profile opportunity yet to begin drawing distinctions among themselves even as they united to press the attack against President Obama.
With the economy wavering and conservatives energized, Republicans see an opportunity to capitalize on the sense that the nation is on the wrong track. But with seven months remaining before the first votes of the nominating contest are cast, the candidates sought to show that they were both electable and ideologically acceptable to primary voters.
The spotlight was trained squarely on Mitt Romney, a former governor of Massachusetts, whose appearance here amounted to his debut on the stage four years after losing his first bid for the party's nomination. He sought to press his business credentials, arguing that he was the strongest nominee to promote a message of economic revival and job creation, but he worked to deflect conservative criticism over the state health care plan he signed that resembles the national one signed into law by Mr. Obama…. – NYT, 6-13-11
- U.S. Republicans blast Obama, not each other: The Republican White House contenders focused their attacks on President Barack Obama and refrained from attacking each other on Monday in their first major debate of the 2012 nominating race.
The Republicans criticized Obama as a failure on the economy and attacked his healthcare overhaul as a gross government intrusion, but sidestepped numerous chances to hit their party rivals in the face-to-face encounter.
"This president has failed, and he's failed at a time when the American people counted on him to create jobs and get the economy growing," said former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, who leads the Republican pack in opinion polls…. – Reuters, 6-13-11
- GOP contenders to meet in New Hampshire debate Republican voters get a chance to compare Romney with six rivals: It's a coming-out party of sorts for the apparent Republican frontrunner, former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney, who will be participating in his first debate of this campaign season (several candidates debated in South Carolina in May).
Romney will have his first chance to spar onstage with his rivals, former Minnesota governor Tim Pawlenty, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, ex-Pennsylvania senator Rick Santorum, Rep. Ron Paul of Texas, former Godfather's Pizza CEO Herman Cain, and Rep. Michele Bachmann of Minnesota, the only woman in the race and a champion of the Tea Party movement.
Former ambassador to China and Utah governor Jon Huntsman is not taking part in the debate, but is expected to formally announce his candidacy within days…. – MSNBC, 6-13-11
- Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney: "This president has failed. And he's failed at a time when the American people counted on him to create jobs and get the economy growing. And instead of doing that, he delegated the stimulus to Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid, and then he did what he wanted to do: card-check, cap-and-trade, Obamacare, re-regulation."
- Former Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty: "This president is a declinist. He views America as one of equals around the world. We're not the same as Portugal; we're not the same as Argentina. And this idea that we can't have 5 percent growth in America is hogwash."
- Minnesota Representative Michele Bachmann: "Unlike how the media has tried to wrongly and grossly portray the Tea Party, the Tea Party is really made up of disaffected Democrats, independents, people who've never been political a day in their life, people who are libertarians, Republicans — it's a wide swathe of America coming together."
- Former pizza executive Herman Cain: "This economy is stalled. It's like a train on the tracks with no engine and the administration has simply been putting all of this money in the caboose. We need an engine called the private sector."
Michele Bachmann Announces Candidacy for President: Representative Michele Bachmann of Minnesota interrupted her answer to a question at a Republican presidential debate in New Hampshire to announce that she had filed papers on Monday to formally declare her candidacy for the Republican nomination for president.
- Michele Bachmann enters presidential race: Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachmann, an outspoken Republican with close ties to the tea party, announced Monday that she is running for president, a candidacy that could further shake up a volatile fight for the GOP nomination.
The first female contender to enter the 2012 race, Bachmann announced her bid during a Republican presidential debate in New Hampshire. The third-term Minnesota congresswoman has been leaning heavily toward a run over the past few months, visiting early primary states, raising money and railing against President Barack Obama.
"We cannot risk giving President Obama four more years to dismantle our nation. We must act now," Bachmann said in a fundraising letter sent within an hour of her entrance. "That's why I've made the decision to get in this race."
She brings high energy, charisma and proven fundraising ability to the race to nominate a Republican challenger to Obama. She also is known for unyielding stances, biting commentary and high-profile gaffes.
Bachmann is attempting the rare leap from the U.S. House to the presidency…. – AP, 6-13-11
- Bachmann confirms presidential candidacy: U.S. Rep. Michele Bachmann ended any doubt that she is running for president, saying during Monday night's CNN GOP presidential debate that she has filed for the 2012 race.
"I filed … my paperwork to seek the office of the presidency of the United States today, and I'll very soon be making my formal announcement," Bachmann said shortly after the start of the debate in Manchester, New Hampshire.
Bachmann, of Minnesota, became the seventh Republican — and the only woman — to confirm her candidacy. She was the only one of the debate's seven participants who hadn't formally declared before the start of Monday's event at Saint Anselm College's Sullivan Arena.
Her campaign also posted a YouTube video in which she announced she was running. "This is the first day of taking our country back," Bachmann said in the video.
A third-term congresswoman, Bachmann is a favorite of the conservative Tea Party movement, founder of the 50-member House Tea Party Caucus and fiery critic of the Obama administration…. – CNN, 6-13-11
- Michele Bachmann uses GOP debate to announce presidential candidacy: Rep. Michele Bachmann used the first major presidential debate of the 2012 campaign to announce that she is formally running for president.
For Bachmann, the conservative from Minnesota, the announcement was expected, but the timing of it was not. She had been expected to declare later in the month in Iowa.
But early in the debate in Manchester, N.H., live on CNN, Bachmann said that she had filed her paperwork Monday with the Federal Election Commission to launch a presidential fundraising committee.
She said she would soon make a public announcement. CNN's John King, a bit flustered, quickly pushed Bachmann to return to addressing the debate topic at hand.
Bachmann, 55, has served in the House since 2007. A former tax attorney, she's popular among "tea party" activists. At present, she is the only woman in the GOP field.
She also appeals to social conservatives. The mother of five, she has also served as foster parent to 23 other children…. – LAT, 6-13-11


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Today we posted a behind the scenes video from an NVIDIA engineering lab here in Santa Clara that captures one of the cool capabilities of Optimus, NVIDIA's new technology that automatically optimizes your notebook for performance and battery life. The video demonstrates Optimus' capability to immediately power on and off the GPU when an application needs it – all while the system is up and running.
The benefit of electrically shutting off components in your notebook, including the GPU, is that it extends battery life. Compared to a standard notebook with a discrete GPU Optimus can extend battery life up to 2x*. The benefit of immediately turning it on again is, of course, that you get all the graphics and processing capabilities of the GPU at a moment's notice. Few people ever get to see this demo because it requires a completely open notebook system – no chassis – just the motherboard, CPU, GPU, Hard drive, and monitor, so it is not exactly portable. This demo is really killer with engineering teams that design notebooks. They practically fall out of their chairs when they see it.
Why? Because with Optimus when the GPU is not needed it is completely powered off automatically and seamlessly WHILE the rest of the system is up and running – the power to the PCI Express bus, the frame buffer memory, the GPU – everything. This is in contrast to switching the GPU to a low-power state or to 'idle', which would still draw power. You can of course prove the GPU is electrically off by using battery benchmarks and software tests. But the fun way to prove it is to physically PULL THE GPU out of the system while the system is still on and working.
So that's what we do in the demo.
Even better, when you put the GPU back into the system you can fire up an application that needs it, and the GPU immediately turns on and renders all the pixels needed by the application.
The benefit is that your notebook gets great performance and great battery life – and as you can see in this video it simply works.
* – R840 is approximately 8 watts at idle + FB is approximately 9.6 watts at idle, for a total of 17.6 watts. Optimus CULV+GT215 , is a total 8 watts at idle, as GT215 is electrically off. 8 watts compared to 17.6 watts is more than 2x power savings.


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Features You Auto Know: Alloy Wheels
Fri, Sep 28, 2018Articles
Alloy wheels are a great option for those looking for sleek styling and performance. Alloy wheels can reduce the weight of your vehicle and look great while doing it. This article shares the benefits of alloy wheels and why this feature is worth a second look.
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when I put my GP3 into the kite, I didn't had any fogging problems.
Now when I had it on my back, where it gets wet from time to time, it still fogs!
But not in the center anymore, but around it...which is better than the other way around!
Testing with the anti fog pads now...will post how it went soon!


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Aics file for grant activities in Tanzania
At this stage of implementation, Aics has chosen to publish just grant flows for the projects carried out in each country. We have published only projects which are still...
IATI data updated: 2019-12-09 10:46:10 · No. of Activities: 46
View Metadata · Download (229.8 KB) · Preview · CSV


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In a TED.com talk, Margaret Wertheim proudly relates how a craft predominantly practiced by women solved the physical representation of Hyperbolic Geometry. Click on the image to view a video of the talk.
This got me to thinking about the representation of Hyperbolic Schemas and Hyperbolic Data.
An example of a Hyperbolic Schema is as follows:
Take the name "John". "John" can be seen as an word element or as a composite of "J", "o", "h", "n".
The left side of the brain sees the element, the right brain sees the composite. This applies level after level. Phrase element and composite of words. Sentence element and composite of phrases. Paragraph element and composite of sentences and so on. The associative database can support both representations. This give you very powerful editing capabilities at many levels of granularity as well as powerful searches and applications.
Our product does this using the Sentences Associational Database from Lazy Software. A relational database cannot do this effectively or efficiently.


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Address: Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Island
- International | English
- Australia | English
- Canada | English
- 內地 | 简体中文
- France | Français
- Deutschland | Deutsch
- India | English
- Indonesia | Bahasa Indonesia
- 日本 | 日本語
- 대한민국 | 한국어
- Malaysia | Bahasa Malaysia
- Nederland | Dutch
- New Zealand | English
- Россия | русский
- Southeast Asia | English
- España / América Latina | Español
Chinese Medicine
Chinese Medicine
The plants, roots, animal parts and herbal concoctions of Traditional Chinese Medicine will no doubt seem curiously exotic or even downright strange to many visitors. In Hong Kong, where tradition and modernity effortlessly co-exist, these ancient potions are not considered alternative. Traditional Chinese Medicine is an integral part of Chinese life and the way Chinese people perceive health and treat illness. In Hong Kong, more than a fifth of all medical consultations are made with practitioners of Chinese medicine.
This traditional form of healthcare represents theories and experiences of Chinese physicians that date back five millennia. Whether it's dried abalone, ivory-coloured birds' nests, dried scallops or ginseng; the same remedies that were used in the distant past can be seen and smelled in Chinese medicine shops all over Hong Kong today, providing a tangible link to early Chinese society.
Buying Traditional Chinese Medicine remedies
Regardless of whether you're in the market for a remedy or not, a visit to a Traditional Chinese Medicine shop provides insights into an ancient practice that's still thriving. In Sheung Wan, there is an area where over 200 shops selling dried seafood and other medicinal goods are clustered. This is also a popular district for purchasing traditional remedies. Take a walk down Ko Shing Street to watch shoppers inspect and haggle over high-quality herbs, followed by a stroll on the strip from Bonham Strand West to Wing Lok Street, where ginseng and bird's nest are the star products.


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List of all famous Illuminati members, past and present. . . supposedly. The following list of alleged celebrity Illuminati members was put together by reading various sources. Yes, a lot of this is speculation, but everyone mentioned on this list is rumored to have talked about the Illuminati, used their symbology or practiced Illuminati rituals in some way– whether privately or in the public eye. These possible famous Illuminati members range from world leaders to pop culture celebrities.
The Illuminati was founded in 1776 in Bavaria by Adam Weishaupt. It was initially created to house the great thinkers of the area and was modeled after another secret society, the Freemasons. A few years later the government outlawed all secret societies so the Illuminati was thought to be disbanded, though they have been the focus of numerous conspiracy theories throughout the years. Some theories are that the Illuminati members run the world behind the scenes as a New World Order, some say that the Illuminati is run by shape-shifting lizard/human hybrids. In any case the debate of who is a member of the Illuminati has captured our fascination for years.
Who are famous Illuminati members? This list is a culmination of names of supposed celebrity Illuminati Members from various internet sources and should not be considered definitive.
Alleged Illuminati celebs include singers, rappers, and high profile Hollywood actors. Even powerful businessmen and women are alleged to have Illuminati ties along with other World leaders, and business people in leadership positions (even entire companies are alleged to have Illuminati ties). Angelina Jolie and Jay Z are just a few examples of alleged Illuminati members.
So what are the names of some other alleged members of the Illuminati?
- Photo: Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock
Angelina Jolie has long been associated with the Illuminati. Her film "Tomb Raider" was largely based around an Illuminati filled storyline. More recently, Jolie's decision to undergo a double mastectomy has been viewed as a larger plan to benefit the Illuminati. Her decision to have the procedure coincided with a Supreme Court ruling to approve the BRCA1 patent which tests for the genetic possibility of breast cancer in women.
If women embrace this BRCA1 test, Illuminati run pharmaceutical companies stand to make billions of dollars in profits.
- Age: 40
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA
- Profession: Film Producer, Model, Screenwriter, Author, Actor
- Credits: Maleficent, Changeling, Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Salt
- Photo: lev radin / ShutterstockThe Hilton's are a very prominent family and it is thought that the Illuminati perform mind control experiments on one of the children of these families. Perhaps that is why Paris Hilton landed in a prison psych ward back in 2007.
- Age: 39
- Birthplace: New York City, New York, United States of America
- Profession: Fashion designer, Businessperson, Television producer, Entrepreneur, Film Producer
- Credits: Zoolander, House of Wax, Repo! The Genetic Opera, Wonderland, The Cat in the Hat
- Photo: Tinseltown / ShutterstockBritney Spears is widely believed to be another victim of Illuminati mind control. Also she has featured Illuminati symbolism in her videos for "Work Bitch" and "I Wanna Go."
- Age: 38
- Birthplace: McComb, Mississippi, United States of America
- Profession: Fashion designer, Record producer, Businessperson, Songwriter, Television producer
- Credits: Bridesmaids, Austin Powers in Goldmember, Spring Breakers, Knocked Up
- Photo: Featureflash Photo Agency / ShutterstockKim Kardashian has denied that she is a member of the Illuminati, but her soon-to-be husband Kanye West is alleged to be a prominent member. Also, the Kardashian's 2013 Christmas card is full of Illuminati symbolism.
- Age: 39
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Profession: Fashion designer, Businessperson, Television producer, Entrepreneur, Model
- Credits: Keeping Up with the Kardashians, Kourtney & Kim Take New York, Kourtney & Kim Take Miami, Kim Kardashian: Fit in Your Jeans by Friday - Amazing Abs Body Sculpt


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The DSMDC is a group of Metal Detecting enthusiasts who meet monthly to share their treasure finds with fellow members and discuss some of their tips and tricks of the trade. The meetings are held from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Members and guests may arrive as early as 6:30 p.m. This will give everyone time to socialize, so we can start on time. Come join the fun! Visitors are always welcome. Click on the Meeting Schedule banner below for meeting location, dates and time.
Thursday, July 14, 2016
Proper Preservation Techniques for Copper Coins
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Austin Office
Avalon's Austin office offers a laid-back work style surrounded by a community of creatives, technology professionals, and public officials. Working here since July 2011, our small but growing team enjoys tackling the hottest new enterprise technologies such as Hadoop and NoSQL with youthful energy and passion. We also enjoy the great weather, outdoor activities, live music venues, and tech Meet-ups the city has to offer. With an eye toward future growth, our Austin office seeks to build its team with a focus on consultants who enjoy collaboration and a sense of community.


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Jan Höltge
Visiting Scholar
Jan Höltge is a postdoctoral research fellow at the Resilience Research Centre. Jan completed both his Bachelor in Psychology and Master in Environmental, Social and Clinical Psychology at the University of Vienna, Austria. He received his Ph.D. in Clinical and Positive Psychology at the University of Zurich, Switzerland. He has joined the Resilience Research Centre supported by the Early Postdoc.Mobility Scholarship granted by the Swiss National Science Foundation. Jan is passionately interested in how stressful circumstances can have positive effects on human life, especially resilience-enhancement, ranging from daily hassles to traumatic experiences. While taking a lifespan perspective, he has a focus on higher age, the long-term effects of early life stress and the positive effects of collective adversities on social values and behaviors. Additionally, he is interested in how the physical environment contributes to human resilience and wellbeing.


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Suggested Blogs
Suggested Forums
Tag Archives: shilouette
Sunset Fire Spinning
JT has been spinning fire and improving his craft for many years. On this fine night, we climbed on to a rooftop with sunset views and captured his craft against a lovely sunset over the city. Continue reading
Posted in feats, male model, on-location Tagged fire, fire-department, fire-spinning, flame, long-exposure, male model, rooftop, shilouette, sunset


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Past Installs
Audio, Video, Structured Cabling, Video Surveillance, Prewire, New Build, Home Theater, TV, Wall Mount
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TV Wall Mount Install. AV, Prewire, Retrofit, Cabling, Wiring, Digital Signage, Wall Mount TV, CCTV, and Home Theater Install by Streamline of Denver, Colorado. hdtvdenver.com
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Let $M_g$ be the moduli space of smooth curves of genus $g$. Let $\overline{M_g}$ be its compactification; the moduli space of stable curves of genus $g$.
It seems to be important in physics to study the degeneration of certain functions on $\overline{M_g}$ as you approach its boundary.
For which functions on $M_g$ is it interesting to physicists to study their degeneration as you approach the boundary?
I know of theta functions, Green functions and delta invariants. Are there others?
As in my other question, here is an article by Wentworth which I find interesting.


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07 Saturday Nov 2015
Posted Doiliesin
≈ Comments Off on Pineapple Pumpkin Lace
07 Saturday Nov 2015
Posted Amigurumiin
≈ Comments Off on Country Cottage and Tree Ornaments
07 Saturday Nov 2015
Posted Doiliesin
≈ Comments Off on Country Christmas Doily
Make knitting a fresh, new experience.
Poetry...in Motion
The Cricket Pages
handwork, writing, life, music, books
A young crafty mum, parenting alone by trial and error.
Fashion and lifestyle blog from a fashionista insider
Blogging like a bastard
A Love Letter to Fantasy
This WordPress.com site is the cat's pajamas
A crochet hook, some yarn and a little creativity. Dog hair optional.
A great WordPress.com site
My woolish adventures...
Amigurumi made with love and pride
The highs and lows of being a SAHM in a foreign country
WordPress.com site about my life and interests.
Jamaican flavored - Wood, Needle & Word Craft
This is the year I set out to read my books at a faster rate than I buy them


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Baby Gift Sets
Thoughtful Baby Gift Sets
Great selection of gift sets that are perfect for newborns
Shop the largest range of baby gift sets with Pink Taffy Designs' baby gifts set store today! Find inspiring baby shower gifts, baby boy and girl gift sets, baby bath gift sets, baby bath toys and gifts for new-born to baby shower gift baskets and even personalized baby gift baskets. Search for the best and thoughtful baby gift sets from our extensive catalog and get playful little toys or snug baby clothing gift sets. For bath time joy, we also offer baby bath gift sets that have gentle baby wash that is cleansing but won't dry out babies' skin. Get baby bath toys to keep toddlers occupied during bath time for an easier bath. Simply pick one of our thoughtfully packaged baby gifts sets for baby boys and girls at affordable prices today. Shop for unique gifts for new-born and find great gifts that are premium quality and easily available at the best, budget prices. Find baby boy and girl gift sets for all occasions, just search through our massive online selections of baby gift sets, baby bath gift sets, baby bath toys and gifts for new-born. Check Pink Taffy Designs' baby gift sets store now and get fantastic bargains for your baby gift sets!


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On Oct. 5 and 6, four theaters in San Francisco and Thousand Oaks, California, Rosemont, Illinois and Bellevue, Washington, will give viewers a chance to play the upcoming action game "UNCHARTED 2: Among Thieves" title -- on movie screens equipped with Sony digital-projection technology.
Those theaters will provide viewers with PS3s connected to Sony's 4K digital cinema technology, which is in about 500 theaters nationwide and which Sony says provides better image resolution than traditional projectors.
Mike Fidler, senior vice president of Sony Electronics' Digital Cinema Solutions and Services Group, hopes events like this can eventually drive revenues for Sony, video game makers as well as theater operators.
"This is the first time we're doing it in a theater. We think it's a start of something for us, and hope we can build this into a standard element in the movie-going experience," he said. "Our goal in converting theaters to digital is to go beyond the traditional movie-going experience and focus on helping exhibitors find ways to fill seats."
"Gaming will be an important part of that equation."
The first night will be a private invitation-only event, while the second event will be open to the public, to be publicized through radio and social networking sites.
Theater chains have struggled to sustain revenue growth as home entertainment and the recession entices some moviegoers to stay home. And Sony, like other game console makers, is hoping for a hit title this holiday season to drive platform sales as the industry grapples with a protracted decline.
Both Sony and Microsoft Corp, the maker of the rival XBox 360, have recently slashed prices on their consoles. Sales of video game equipment and software in the United States fell 16 per cent in August to $908.7 million, the industry's sixth consecutive monthly decline, research group NPD reported.
"UNCHARTED 2" is due to be released Oct. 13.


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Residential Contractor Requirements
All forms must be completed and included with the 2 sets of construction plans submitted to the Engineering Department and Building Inspection Department for review. The Water Quality Specialist will review all grading plans to ensure that the site drainage conforms to the subdivision drainage plan and that appropriate erosion and sediment controls are in place to prevent pollutants from leaving the construction site.
Contractors are responsible for scheduling the initial inspection with the Water Quality Specialist, prior to the start of construction, to verify the necessary stormwater pollution prevention best management practices are in place. Contractors are also responsible for scheduling the final inspection to verify proper stabilization exists following project completion (to be scheduled prior to final inspection with the Building Department).
- Grading and ESC Guidance (PDF) - detailed requirements outlining the responsibilities and procedures that contractors must follow to conform to the City of Owatonna Stormwater Management Ordinance No. 52.25.
- Notice of Transfer/ Modification Fact Sheet (PDF) - read prior to signing notice of transfer/ modification form and deliver to person responsible for SWPPP oversight.
- Single Family Residential Design Standards (PDF) - comprehensive list of information that the contractor must include in the grading plan and SWPPP.
If the all of above information is not completed and submitted with construction drawings, the plan will not be allowed to be reviewed.
Helpful Documents
- Concrete Washout Requirements (PDF)
- How to use the Permit Modification Form (PDF) - general information about the MPCA permit modification form process and responsibilities.
- MPCA Homeowner Fact Sheet (PDF)
- MPCA Permit Modification Form (PDF) - the application that must be printed, completed, and submitted to the MPCA if development is under Construction General Permit coverage.
Additional Information
Visit the Building Inspection Division's page for additional information regarding construction.


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Has President Obama killed off the Congressional Black Caucus? From the very beginning, President Obama and his campaign promised the CBC nothing, so no one - not even the 42 CBC members - should be shocked that, at this point, they have gained minimal legislative progress with Obama in the White House and that they have apparently lost much of the influence they had in Washington.
The President and his administration seem to have unique disregard for the CBC. This could be because, at the beginning of his candidacy, many of its members urged him not to run while they publically supported Hillary Clinton's bid for President. Since taking office 16 months ago, he has been slow to meet with the Caucus and when he did it was after meeting with old-line civil rights leaders.
If President Obama does not find a way to empower the CBC, he has effectively neutralized it, not just for the duration of his Presidency, but for future administrations as well. The issue could have repercussions beyond this moment; the after-effects could be even more damaging under a Romney, Pawlenty or Palin presidency. For now, the Caucus is made to sit at the small table and be quiet; under the next Republican presidency it may have to eat outside.
With the election of Barack Obama, power shifted for black Americans in ways that none of us were ready for, and collectively, we still haven't wrapped our minds completely around what his presidency and administration can mean for the future of black people on a practical level. With his election, we had every right to be elated and overjoyed; the experience was cathartic for most of us. We needed that moment after eight long Bush years. We needed some relief from the burden of being overlooked and underserved in America.
The irony is that the CBC probably had more leverage with Presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter than with President Obama. Those two previous Democrats couldn't afford to have African-American constituents see them seem high-handed with the CBC. President Obama doesn't have that problem. Many people voted for more than Obama. We also voted for a Democrat with a broad progressive agenda and trusted that he would aid all the underserved in a way that no other President has in the last fifteen years.
The silencing of the CBC by the White House has been confusing for Black America. The CBC has long served as the bridge between the ways of Washington and the consciousness of urban America. Its members have served urban communities, which in America is a specific demographic: black and brown, women and children.
For previous presidential administrations, the CBC was a powerful political utility that could translate public policy into language that Black America could understand. But with the election of Barack Obama, the CBC has been displaced and relegated to placeholders instead of stakeholders in shaping the betterment and recovery of their constituents.
In November 2009, the CBC began promoting solutions to the White House and Congress, including funding for job training, summer job programs, and existing federal job initiatives to be directed to the communities hardest hit by unemployment. Specifically, the members called for at least 10 percent of funding for these programs to target areas with poverty rates of 15 percent or higher, or unemployment greater than 10 percent.
All of these provisions were ignored in the first jobs bill. Fighting back against the snub, 21 members of the Congressional Black Caucus voted "nay" on the bill. And although it narrowly passed, the protest showed that they have the potential to block Obama's agenda if they continue to be ignored.
The President has been forthright with the CBC and with black America on his strategy: "I will tell you that I think the most important thing I can do for the African-American community is the same thing I can do for the American community, period, and that is get the economy going again and get people hiring again," the president told Richard Wolf of USA Today.
From a political standpoint, the Obama administration has had other good reasons to keep the Caucus at arm's length. This underlying issues around ethics and the Caucus' financing, as reported in an article in the New York Times article that is strongly disputed by the CBC Foundation, have presented the White House with deep problems about engaging without getting absorbed in the ongoing ethics probe of Reps. Charles Rangel, Gregory Meeks and Maxine Waters, amongst others. So it is no wonder that the President has had a long-distance strategy with the CBC: if he gets too close, his political enemies will use the CBC's alleged indiscretions as a wedge issue that ultimately could stall his whole agenda.
Maybe black America did not count up the political, social and economic price of being able to say "We have a black President." Investing in this new power structure has left us, at least at the moment, vulnerable. There is no one saying, "Black America is too big to fail." But, if you haven't noticed, we are falling behind in nearly every measurable category in America. For black America, The President's administration is like having a BMW 650si parked in your driveway that has no transmission: it's pretty, but it doesn't go anywhere, however I guess there is some consolation with saying at least you have one.
When the White House needs to communicate to black America (which has not been often), it talks to it directly, not needing the advocacy of the CBC like former administrations. I understand why: the President is black and has the most recognizable image and viable brand that we have ever seen, so the CBC is like the extra screws in the box after you assemble a book shelf; you just don't need them so you put them in the drawer.
So, what will come of the CBC after he is gone? If it is powerless and stagnant under his administration, what will be its role or relevance under a Republican administration? The CBC's viability will be dictated by its ability to survive and function effectively. The next GOP administration can well respond to the CBC's requests for more funding and more care by bringing up the fact that when it had a black President, he did nothing for them.
In the past, the President has responded by saying that "a rising tide lifts all boats" and that his job "is to be president of the whole country." Well with all due respect to the President; black America's boat was foreclosed on a long time ago, so we still need the CBC to work for us and for the President to find a way to work with them.
Patrick Shaffer is a writer, national blogger and Sacred Activist for more information go to www.patrickdshaffer.com


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test management tool
Unlimited testers, projects and storage. Full integration with virtually any tool. Less Time Wasting, More Time Testing.
Two-way Integration with 31 Bug Trackers
Automation Tool Test Results Integration
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Releases On-Time
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Our customers. From start ups to large companies. Various industries, covering 5 continents.
Why our clients trust us
As a SaaS solution with frequent release cycles, we found Testuff very suitable to our needs. Testuff's simplicity and usability helps us to manage tests and share the results.
My biggest concern going in was customer service via email only, but that was not a problem at all. You were always very responsive, and I appreciate that. That alone is enough for me to be willing to recommend your product to others and use it again if the need arises.
Your professional customer service vastly distinguished you among the rest. Even my superiors stated they were impressed with the customer service and quick responses.
We are using Testuff to bring a high degree of structure and visibility to our Quality Assurance process. Their staff has been responsive to our needs and the simplicity of the interface and FogBugz integration were key in choosing them for our test case management solution.


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George Mason's decision to remain in the Colonial Athletic Association provides a boost to the league, which now awaits word from VCU and Old Dominion about their plans.
Mason athletic director Tom O'Connor called CAA commissioner Tom Yeager late Friday morning to tell him that the Patriots would not jump to the Atlantic 10 Conference. Instead, one of the CAA's charter members and signature men's basketball programs will stay put for the foreseeable future.
"Is this a big step? Yeah," Yeager said Friday afternoon from the conference offices in Richmond. "We saw editorial cartoons and 'Rest in Peace' and doomsday scenarios circulating around here. For the time being, this is a big step forward and lets us get back to work."
Indeed, the CAA's very existence came into question in recent weeks, as George Mason, VCU and Old Dominion, three of the league's anchor programs, considered other conference options. The departure of all three might have crippled the league and forced other schools to seek new homes.
VCU has yet to announce whether it will join the Atlantic 10, while Old Dominion weighs the possibility of jumping to Conference USA. ODU's decision is tied to ambitions for its football program and windows of opportunity to join a Football Bowl Subdivision league that also will provide a home for most of its other sports.
VCU and George Mason do not field football programs, and their decisions were and are tied to giving their men's basketball programs the best competition and avenues toward the NCAA tournament, balanced against the benefits of remaining where they are.
"I can appreciate, and always have, the need that universities have to explore options," Yeager said. "VCU and ODU have every right to go through the same process and analysis. We hope that they come to a conclusion soon. We've all been incredibly energized by what we've been able to accomplish in recent years, and this has been a big distraction to doing things like launching our digital networks and everything else."
O'Connor told the Washington Post that, "We felt it was in our best interests to stay," citing the CAA's history and geographic strength.
"They did a very thorough analysis, pros and cons," Yeager said. "When they finished, it was really a simple thing. They concluded that all things considered, the CAA was the best place for them to be as a university, and they looked forward to continue the upward growth trends we've had in the league."
Yeager, the only commissioner the CAA has ever had, said that he has been in contact with officials at VCU and ODU.
VCU's Board of Visitors held meetings Friday, and university president Michael Rao said a conference decision can be expected "in the next couple of weeks." Rao said the topic was discussed in the closed session.
ODU's executive committee of its Board of Visitors will meet Monday.
Earlier this week, a source said not to expect a decision from ODU's meeting Monday, since school officials are still gathering information, and the board is just beginning to be brought up to speed.
Yeager said that he received no blood oath loyalty or "Til Death Do Us Part" assurances from O'Connor, nor did he expect one. He acknowledged that everyone could replay this scenario 12 months from now.
"In this industry right now, I don't know that anybody can give anybody (assurances), nor should there be reason to expect that things won't change," he said. "The sense that I got is: short of a winning lottery ticket, this is where we want to be."
Much of the CAA's present membership anxiety has been driven by shuffling from above. After losing Syracuse and Pittsburgh to the ACC and West Virginia to the Big 12 Conference, the Big East lured Temple away from the Atlantic 10.
The A-10, which also will lose Charlotte and its start-up football program to Conference USA, in turn lured Butler from the Horizon League and was interested in VCU and Mason because of their locations and recent basketball success.
The present round of conference realignment may not be complete, as the Big East and others deal with the fallout of change within football's Bowl Championship Series structure.
Whatever VCU and Old Dominion decide, Yeager said that George Mason's decision to stay provides some stability within a league that had grown very nervous in recent weeks.
"Part of the decisions have been that, you don't know what the future holds," Yeager said. "But you do have a pretty good idea of what the present is. And that's important."
- College Sports
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- Virginia Commonwealth Rams
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- Big 12 Conference


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LOS ANGELES (AP) — A California middle school teacher was charged with distributing child pornography after he met an undercover agent in his classroom to look at sexually explicit images, authorities said Thursday.
John David Boyle, 49, of Glendora was arrested Wednesday. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in federal prison.
Boyle was scheduled to appear in court later Thursday. It could not be immediately determined if he has an attorney.
Boyle was placed on administrative leave after 13 years with the Charter Oak Unified School District in the East San Gabriel Valley, where he teaches eighth-grade English, Superintendent Mike Hendricks said.
Hendricks said there was no indication that any of Boyle's students had been victimized. However, federal authorities said Boyle may have molested some of his students.
Boyle denied molesting boys to authorities. But a search of his video chat account showed a conversation in which he told another user that he had sexually abused his students, according to court documents.
He has not been charged with molestation.
Authorities said Boyle was involved for more than a month in online chats with the agent who used the identity of a person targeted by authorities in an unrelated investigation.
The two discussed their sexual interest in boys before meeting Sunday at his classroom at Royal Oak Middle School in Covina — two days after classes ended for summer break.
Court documents state that Boyle believed they were going to watch child pornography and have sex.
The agent said he gave a computer thumb drive to Boyle who began to upload the illegal, encrypted files onto a laptop.
Court documents also indicate he told authorities that he collects child pornography and has done video chats with boys who appear to be as young as 13.
Authorities also said they found several child porn videos on Boyle's laptop computer and a thumb drive.


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Everyone wants to explore new places in this beautiful world. We all know that there are numerous places around us which are beautiful and can make our vacation exciting and memorable. Some places are famous for their culture and some for their food. Some are known for their lively nightlife while others are famous for their tourism infrastructure. People who like to visit new destinations and are fond of traveling always look for new places so as to explore something new every time.
There are number of travel destinations which are known for their natural beauty and superb atmosphere. Some of the top travel destinations in this world are so beautiful that you cannot afford to miss them. Singapore, Thailand, Pattaya, Phuket, Las Vegas, USA, Paris, Dubai and Sydney are some of the well know and top travel destinations in this world which comes first to mind when you wish to plan your vacation with your family or friends. All these different travel destinations are famous for different things. You can really enjoy your vacation at these places and can make it a memorable one.
Singapore is one of the top travel destinations in this world. It is an amazing city having a blend of traditional and modern. You will find some amazing and modern architecture out here which makes the city look vibrant. Singapore is an energetic city and is famous for its world-class shopping. You can also call Singapore as one of the world's financial centers. Singapore is famous all over the world by the name of Lion city. It has something or the other for every visitor and offers unique experience.
If you are planning to explore a country having beauty along with mystery then Thailand is a perfect destination for you. It attracts tourists from all over the world who are interested in spending their time on island resorts. Thailand welcomes every tourist warm heartedly which brings these tourists back to this place again and again. Pattaya is also a well-known travel destination. It is known for its high-class hotels, excellent shopping, amazing seafood restaurants, international cuisine and superb nightlife.
Phuket is known as the pearl of the south and is one of the largest islands of Thailand. You can really spend some great time in Phuket with your family and friends. This wonderful island is surrounded with beautiful beaches, amazing forests, traditional and excellent markets, lively bars and restaurants and more important attractive and warm tropical climate.
Paris, Dubai and Las Vegas are the charm of this beautiful world. All these places are blessed with superb atmosphere, amazing natural beauty, energetic nightlife and excellent culture. Paris is a well-known tourist destination which is getting more and more popular these days. It is rich in culture, art and fashion. You will find excellent and delicious food in Paris which will never allow you to sleep hungry. Dubai is a city of contrast whereas Las Vegas is amazing in itself. Thus, plan your vacation today and explore these top travel destinations of the world.
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From the fun of the animals to the pratfalls and pranks of the clowns, the Circus Party Supplies are perfect for your next big birthday! With fun favors, colorful pieces of decoration, and handy tableware, you'll be able to make an event your special child and all of his guests will be talking about for days!
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Step Right Up! It's a Carnival Party Extraordinaire!
Everyone loves the carnival. With spectacles like the strong
man, two-headed woman, bearded lady, trapeze artists and unicyclists, the
carnival is a place of wonder and amazement as impossible feats are performed
before your eyes. Don't forget about the animals, either! Carnivals are full of
gorgeous elephants, majestic horses, terrifying lions and many more exotic
animals from around the world. With sights like that, who wouldn't love the
carnival? With party supplies from Birthday Express, you can bring the carnival
home to you and throw a magical birthday party that people will remember for
years to come.
Quick pre-planning tip:
Write down all of the supplies you need for the party so you
don't forget anything. The list will come in handy when you're shopping from
store to store. Plus, you'll get the satisfaction every time you get to cross
an item off the list.
Are you determined to throw a spectacular party that guests will
be raving about for years? Check out the Birthday Express Ideas Blog for all of
the best ideas on themes, decorations, food, activities and more. Expert tips
are available for every step of the party-planning process.
Step right up and get your ticket for the big show! These
Carnival Games Invitations are a great way to let guests know about your
birthday party. When these spectacular invitations arrive in the mailbox, your
guests won't be able to contain their excitement.
The decorations from Birthday Express allow you to bring the
carnival straight from the big top to your home. We have classic party
decorations, like balloons and banners, as well as special designs customized
for the carnival, like a cardboard ticket booth, pop-up candy stand and a
cardboard carnival man with a direction sign pointing people to their favorite
spectacles. Everything you need to set the scene is ready for you at Birthday
Express. Now all you need are some elephants and a woman with two heads, but we
recommend using your imagination for those.
Carnival Balloon Bouquet
Balloons are a must for every birthday party, especially a
carnival-themed birthday party. A balloon bouquet from Birthday Express will
help transform your party into a real carnival. You can also use the bouquet to
decorate a table or designate where the birthday boy or girl will sit.
Outdoor Decorating Kit
Want to enjoy the beautiful weather and have an outdoor party?
You can still set the scene for your larger-than-life carnival party with the
Giant Outdoor Carnival Decorating Kit. Each kit includes a large welcome sign,
fringe banner, pennant banner and plastic bunting.
One of the best things about the carnival is its food. Cotton
candy, peanuts and popcorn are all carnival favorites and will be the perfect
treats to serve at your carnival-themed party. If you're going to have food,
you need tableware to serve the food, and Birthday Express has all the supplies
you need. We have plates, silverware, cups and napkins to accompany any type of
food you'll be serving. Big Top Snack Servers are also available and are the
perfect way to hand out the famous peanuts and popcorn.
When it comes to party planning, the trickiest part is picking
the activities. Keeping kids entertained and under control for a whole party
seems impossible. Fortunately, carnivals are full of fun and games, giving you
plenty of activity options for your carnival birthday party. If you're still
stuck coming up with ideas, Birthday Express has some activities already
planned for you, like a potato sack race, ball toss, ring toss and balloon
darts. With a carnival theme for your birthday party, the possibilities are
Carnival Pinata
The Circus Big Top piñata makes the kids jump with excitement as
they anxiously wait to take their swing and free the candy inside. This isn't
your average piñata though; this piñata is super-sized at 17 inches tall and
has a uniquely crafted design to fit right into your carnival theme.
Ball Toss
Have kids try their luck at the classic carnival ball toss. See who has the best hand-eye coordination and can score the most points by hitting the center hole. Just remember, at the carnival, everyone's a winner.
The guests are the most important part of the party, and party
favors are the perfect way to thank them for being a part of your child's
special day. Send them home with goodie bags full of sweet treats and toys, or
give them something extra during the party to show your appreciation. Party
favors are also a way for your child's friends to take a piece of the party
home with them and remember the fun adventures they had at the carnival.
Lollipop Favor
Everyone has a sweet tooth and these Whirly Pops will hit the
spot. Hand out the Whirly Pops as a sweet
snack at the party or let guests take the treats home.
Favor Boxes
Send partygoers home with a mixture of fun carnival-themed toys
to remind them of all the fun they had at your child's birthday party. Add a blowout, a sponge clown nose, round flashing safety
light and a mini rubber duck to the carnival printed favor box.


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Beginning more or less where "The Bourne Ultimatium" left off, "The Bourne Legacy'' is interrupted from time to time for news bulletins about the search for Matt Damon's rogue CIA agent Jason Bourne, last seen jumping into the East River to escape his former handlers.
Disappointingly, Bourne never resurfaces in this less-than-satisfying series reboot. The film is more a talky, convoluted, action-starved two-hour subplot starring Jeremy Renner as another, far less interesting special agent who goes on the run with Rachel Weisz for reasons that are never clearly explained.
Paul Greengrass, who took over the "Bourne'' series from Doug Liman for the second and third installments, staged chases and action with such visceral excitement that the implausiblities of the labyrinthine plots whizzed past.
Tony Gilroy, who contributed to the writing of all four "Bourne'' films, steps in as director (he previously did well with the drama "Michael Clayton'' and the spy rom-com "Duplicity''), and disastrously reverses the talk-to-action ratio.
Renner ("The Hurt Locker") is a formidable actor, but having him open with a half-hour of eyeball-glazing exposition — even as the film fails to flesh out his underwritten character — does no favors to him or the audience.
Following Bourne's defection, the CIA decides to shut down a program that's created a race of super-agents using experimental drugs to enhance their mental and physical capabilities. Rather than simply issuing pink slips, the agency literally eliminates these agents as well as the scientists servicing them.
You'd think they'd do this in a less messy and highly publicized fashion than driving one of the scientists to massacre his colleagues in a laboratory, but this does make for a fairly suspenseful sequence as Weisz's Dr. Marta Shearing manages to elude death.
Renner's Aaron Cross, meanwhile, has not only eluded missiles aimed at him during a training mission in Alaska (where he wrestles a very phony-looking computer-generated wolf) but manages to fake his own death; a less loquacious super-agent played by Oscar Isaac isn't so lucky.
For reasons that go inadequately explained, Aaron shows up at Shearing's home just as a black-ops team is about to execute a terminal severance package. He fakes her death, too, and demands as repayment that she find a way to make his powers permanent.
Edward Norton, another formidable actor, spends an awful lot of time glowering at video-surveillance screens, since he's not entirely sure that Shearing has been disposed of properly. He also hisses a lot at his superior (played by Stacy Keach, who looks as if he wants to punch out Norton).
After what seems like three hours, Aaron and the doctor sneak into a pharmaceutical lab in Manila to give Aaron his fix. I'm not sure whether they are there because hardly anybody uses the Philippines for Hollywood action films these days or because they offer more lucrative tax abatements than, say, Louisiana or Michigan.
This leads to a confusingly shot foot-and-motorcycle chase with a CIA assassin that goes on for so long, I forgot exactly what the point of it was.
"The Bourne Legacy'' isn't helped by cameo appearances by "The Bourne Ultimatum'' co-stars Joan Allen, David Strathairn and Albert Finney, all of whom remind us of the sequel with Damon we're not seeing.
The whole thing is sort of like watching George Lazenby playing James Bond in "On Her Majesty's Secret Service'' while knowing that the producers are desperately negotiating a deal with Sean Connery to return for the next film. Renner and the audience deserve better.


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We would like to announce that we have clarified compatibility in general operations(*1) of following Tamron Di & Di II lenses on Canon EOS R, which was newly released on October 25, 2018, with Canon Mount Adapter(*2).
Please kindly note the following when using a Tamron lens on the Canon EOS 6D Mark II.
We wish to notify you that a firmware update for our SP 35mm F/1.8 Di VC USD (Model F012) and SP 45mm F/1.8Di VC USD (Model F013) lens products is available.


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* Changing language is only available in some games.
Breeze through the forest terrain at terrifying speeds while performing life-threatening stunts to truly live the life of an Extreme Skater in this thrilling skateboard game.
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Digital Light Processing (DLP), awarded 2015 Academy Award of Merit (Oscar®statuette), is the leading projection technology used in 90% of world's digital cinemas and 100% of IMAX theaters. DLP powers next-generation 3D gaming devices, high tech heads-up telematics, and of course the most impactful projectors on the planet. With DLP dominating the worldwide projector market with over 50% share, BenQ is today the #1 bestselling DLP projector brand, delivering unmatched world-class performance.
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Los Angeles native Anita Ko is a fine jewelry designer whose eponymous line has garnered a cult following since its launch in 2006. Ko's designs are a signature blend of notable everyday motifs and unique modern designs, including the paperclip earring, snake ring, and leaf bracelet.
Since she was 14 years old, Anita Ko has been interested in the fine jewelry industry. After studying at New York University, Anita Ko returned home to the West Coast to embark on the journey of building a fine jewelry business. She set out to fill a rarified void in the market of high-quality, radiant diamond pieces meant to be worn every day. She hit instant success, servicing women looking to incorporate diamond jewelry into their everyday wardrobes.
Anita Ko takes great pride in working with local master craftsmen in Downtown LA and ensures that every stone is ethically sourced. Her decision to keep production in Los Angeles pays homage to her upbringing in the Pacific Palisades and the deep inspiration she has drawn from the city. "I have a clear idea of what my aesthetic is, and I was lucky enough to grow up in Los Angeles and be influenced when driving on Sunset and Doheny and seeing the punk rockers to seeing the rich ladies at the Polo Lounge," Ko says.
Anita Ko is also deeply inspired by the woman she designs for and is a champion of authentic, personal style. She encourages her clients to style the jewelry in a way that feels unique to them and is expressive of their individuality. Whether your vibe is that of an ultra-feminine minimalist or an edgier, maximalist esthetic, Anita Ko's collection has something for every woman. It's safe to say that Ko is the mixmaster, blending timeless elegance with contemporary flair.
Arguably her most signature designs are those that master the art of optical illusion. From the Pink Sapphire Ear Jacket that gives the illusion of a row of sapphires suspended underneath the lobe, to the Yellow Gold Single Lightning Bolt Earring "shooting" through the ear, Anita Ko's designs are some of the most intriguing in the luxury market today. The organic lines of the Diamond Twisted Hoop Earrings and the Crescent Diamond Necklace evokes a soft, fluid attitude. In recent years, Anita Ko explored the use of colored gemstones into her designs, including rubies, blue sapphires, and tsavorite. Her paperclip earring was reissued with brightly colored gemstones, which continues to be one of her best selling styles.
Notable publications, including Vogue, Elle, and Vanity Fair, have featured the designer throughout her career. Additionally, a deep roster of celebrity heavyweights has adorned Ko's designs both on and off the red carpet. Anita Ko includes Amber Valletta, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Jennifer Lawrence, and Victoria Beckham, among fans of her work.


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Aaron Craft Finds Redemption As Buckeyes Beat Iowa State On Final-Second Shot
Aaron Craft hit the game-winning shot for Ohio State in its battle against Iowa State Sunday. (Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
DAYTON, Ohio -- The hero of Sunday's game played one of his worst four-minute stretches of the season, committing two turnovers, missing the front end of two one-and-ones, and getting blown by on a drive. As Aaron Craft, on his way to playing the full 40 minutes on this Round of 32 encounter with Iowa State, tired and made atypically sloppy mistakes, the Cyclones surged, a 13-point deficit disappearing on what felt like no more than two blinks of an eye. Ohio State's bedrock was crumbling, and so was its season.
But two things became very certain in the aftermath of the Buckeyes' eventual, pulsating, 79-76 win over the Cyclones, earned on the hitchy flick of Craft's wrist from 21 feet away with half a second left. Neither will surprise you. Craft has the mental toughness to forget about mistakes, and his teammates and coaches trust him, absolutely and implicitly, to make the right decision with everything on the line.
"We got all the confidence in the world in Craft," said sophomore wing Sam Thompson. "They put pressure a little bit, they started keying on him, he missed a couple free throws, I think he picked up a foul off the ball. But we know that Craft is a great competitor, a great player, and eventually he's going to pick himself back up."
Craft emerged from his in-game slump just in time to help stave off the rampaging Cyclones, who were gamely making their run without standout Chris Babb, who injured his ankle before halftime and missed the entire second half. His driving layup and-1 with 2:35 left ended a 17-2 Cyclone run. The charge he drew on Iowa State's Will Clyburn -- a highly debatable call given Craft may have been late sliding in and he appeared to have a foot still in the charge circle -- nullified a potential three-point play with 1:41 left and kept the Buckeyes within one. And, after Craft made one of two free throws to tie, he found the game in his hands, in an eerily similar spot to just seconds before.
The Buckeyes had regained possession with a chance for the last shot after Craft had missed an 18-foot jumper after Iowa State's Georges Niang switched onto him. Now he had the ball again, with the right side of the court cleared out, sizing up Iowa State guard Bubu Palo. The Buckeyes ran a high screen, with the intent to have one player curl and then a second run a pindown to help leading scorer Deshaun Thomas pop out to the wing for a potential game-winning shot. But once the Cyclones again switched the screen and Craft found Niang isolated on him on the right side of the top of the key, he waved off the play, sized Niang up and ripped the game-winner.
Afterward, there was almost as much buzz about Craft's atypical foibles as there was about the shot.
"I just tried to do the best job I could of moving on to the next play," Craft said. "Just trying to stay poised and stay focused, you know? All of the things that were going on, things I don't normally do, we were still in the game and that's what it's all about."
One of the things Craft also doesn't normally do is make three-pointers. He was just 29.3 percent for the season entering the game, having made well fewer than one three per game. He hadn't taken one in this contest prior to the final, game-winning attempt. But here's where the trust factor comes in for the Buckeyes. Obviously, it went in, which helps the post-game buy-in, but it legitimately seemed like everyone in the locker room was OK with the shot, regardless of the outcome.
"We wanted the ball in Aaron's hands and wanted him to make a decision," assistant coach Jeff Boals said.
OK, but that couldn't possibly have been what the hope was, right? As hard-nosed and talented as Aaron Craft is, a pull-up three for the win couldn't have been the first choice for that set, with other, more talented scorers on the floor. Several Buckeyes were asked what the pecking order for that play was supposed to be, and Thompson was the closest to fully honest.
He smiled, and with a laugh, said "I guess [he was] option No. 1."


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Trailer FrenzyA special place to find the newest trailers for movies and TV shows you're craving.
Yes, everyone's favorite Norwegian Nazi-zombie-sploitation film is back with a sequel subtitled Red Vs. Dead. Alas, this apparently won't be about zombie Stalin-era Soviet Communist zombies (sigh).
Dead Snow 2 picks up right where the first movie ends, and features the return of the aforementioned Nazi zombies. However, apparently Freaks and Geeks' Martin Starr is joining the movie, so that ain't bad. Besides, I'm a sucker for any movie where someone has an evil limb or organ attached or implanted in their bodies.


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23 May, 2012 | (30 min)
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The 2012 Conference Board CEO Challenge®— Voices from the Front Lines
In this new series of webcasts, we'll hear from corporate practitioners on the front lines of addressing the top-ranked challenges. Executives from across the enterprise will join lively discussions of what they believe will be the most critical strategies for meeting these challenges.
Near the top of the challenges that CEOs identified were three external risks: economic, political, and regulatory. We will look at how companies manage in the face of these big risks to achieve their objectives. Are there steps that organizations can take or tools to use that can anticipate challenges in these areas? How are economics, politics, and regulation interconnected in a way that may present opportunities? What kind of time frame should organizations be using when considering these risks and planning for growth? What lessons can we learn about the impact of political and economic risks on regulation? How should these risk factors drive business decisions?
Audience: Heads of risk management, directors, and CEOs that are working on meeting compliance standards, and anyone who deals with risk. CEOs that are looking for strategies for Government Regulation are also encouraged to attend.
Bart van Ark
Bart van Ark is a Senior Advisor of the Economy, Strategy and Finance (ESF) Center at The Conference Board. From 2008 until September 2020 he was Chief Economist and Head ...Full Bio
Rainer Schultheis
Rainer Schultheis is Executive Vice President and Managing Director, International. His previous positions at The Conference Board include executive fellow for the European finance and economics councils; program director of the Asia-Pacifi c CFO Council, the Asia-Pacific Supply Chain Council, an...Full Bio
Martin Fleming
Martin Fleming is IBM's Chief Economist and Vice President, Business Performance Services.
In leading the Business Performance Services team, Martin leads an analytics center of competency focused on improving IBM's business performance and achieving IBM's 2015 financial...Full Bio
Ellen Hexter
Ellen Hexter is senior advisor, enterprise risk management at The Conference Board. She has served on the faculty of The Conference Board Directors' Institute and worked with boards to provide director training in risk management practices and the role of the board in ERM oversight.


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Kingston Modular Double Centre
Kingston Modular Double Centre
- Product Description
Product Description
This Kingston double centre sofa is hand woven from the finest all weather rattan weave. Waterproof cushions are included to produce a sumptuous garden sofa that can be left outdoors all year round.
Combining it with other modular sofas components, will enable the creation of endless designs to fit all sizes and shapes of space within the garden environment. It is also ideal for interior conservatory use.
Key features
- Free Fast-Track 1 Man Delivery
View in a Showroom
- Technical Details
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10 year Product Guarantee
To underline the confidence that we have in the quality of Bridgman All Seasons furniture, this product benefits from an extended 10 year domestic guarantee.
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As a business with strong family values we put you at the heart of everything we do, offering you the advice that's right for you, every step of the way.
For over 40 years, the hallmark and heritage of the Bridgman name has been evident in every single piece of handcrafted, luxury furniture we make.
From our flair for innovative design to the materials we use, we promise that our furniture will be enjoyed in comfort and beauty, for generations to come.
Whether online, in our showrooms or over the phone, our staff are passionate about keeping up the high standards for which we are known.


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English Tagalog Translation of
In english tagalog dictionary, "rake" is "magkalaykay". See more translations below.
- rake noun
- magkalaykay
- kalaykay
- halaghag na tao
- kalaykayin
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JERUSALEM (JTA) – A deal to form an Israeli government coalition has been struck, according to Israeli media reports.
A standoff between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Yesh Atid chief Yair Lapid reportedly ended Wednesday evening when Netanyahu conceded the Education Ministry to Yesh Atid and took the Interior Ministry for his Likud party.
Earlier in the day, Likud had threatened to launch government coalition negotiations with the haredi Orthodox parties, citing what it called "excessive demands" from Yesh Atid.
The impasse with Yesh Atid prevented Netanyahu from introducing his new government on Wednesday, as he had planned.
With Netanyahu having four days left to form a government, Lapid reportedly backtracked on agreements that he reached with the Likud leader throughout more than a month of coalition talks.
Jewish Home party Chairman Naftali Bennett, who has pledged to enter the government with Lapid or remain in the opposition, reportedly spent Tuesday night and early Wednesday trying to smooth things over between Bennett and Lapid.
Among the coalition agreements that had already been reached are significantly reducing the size of the Cabinet, raising the electoral threshold from 2 percent to 4 percent, drastic budget cuts and a haredi draft law.
If Netanyahu fails to form a government by Saturday night, Israeli President Shimon Peres can assign another politician to the task or the country could hold new elections.


text: Martin is a success coach, speaker, trainer and author ( www.coachingsupport.com ) specializing in teaching new social media skills to accelerate growth for entrepreneurs and small businesses. He has been offering LinkedIn training in the Triangle community since 2006 and building a meaningful LinkedIn network ( www.linkedin.com/in/martinbrossman ). He has originated in-person and on-line networking groups which have facilitated valuable business connections among members. Martin's IBM background and computer skills have powered his keen ability to create and teach crucial new Internet communications, such as blogging, podcasting and on-line networking. His own podcast show can be heard at www.lnquireOnLine.info as well as the co-host to www.LinkingIntoSales.com ) . He offers consulting on how to generate profitable alliances by maximizing face-to-face and on-line presence and managing "the conversation of you" on the Web ( www.pronetworkingonline.com ) . Find me on Linkedin at http://linkedin.com/in/martinbrossman