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Co-signing, just the word can make one shudder because there's been so many tales of co-signing gone wrong. The rule is, "Just don't do it!" Why? For the biggest and most important reason of all: The risk outweighs the benefits, according to www.bankrate.com.
Many say the one viable exception would be co-signing for your child or spouse, but even then you need to think of all these risks and repercussions that could arise. Even co-signing for your spouse is dangerous — many marriages end in divorce. Read on for reasons not to co-sign before making what could be a bad decision.
All the risk, very little reward: You might co-sign on a loan for a car you are not driving or a mortgage loan for a house you don't live in, but that doesn't change your liability. Your credit score benefits only slightly from the monthly payments. And since you qualified as a co-signer because of your good credit, you don't necessarily need more credit lines. By co-signing, you take on all the risk if the loan is not repaid but may only see a modest improvement to your credit score.
Co-signing for friends, boyfriends, girlfriends and extended family is just not worth the risk. A favourite line from someone who co-signed is, "But my boyfriend said he would dump me if I did not co-sign on the loan!" Does one even need to explain why that is not a good reason?
The lender will sue you first if payments are not made: A client who co-signed for her boyfriend called me, very upset. The boyfriend stopped paying the car loan, and the lender sued her for the balance. She said, "Why is the lender suing me first? I am just the co-signer. Don't they have to sue him first?" She was even more upset when I gave a one word answer, "no."
She was the reason her boyfriend got the loan in the first place. The lender does not care about him. Yes, the lender may sue him, too, but the co-signer usually gets sued first as their credit is higher, and they are more likely to repay the debt.
The person you help will be happy, but you will have a lot to lose: Your signature might make the other person happy because you helped him or her out. But that excitement does not last forever. "Buyer's remorse" can set in.
Even worse, the person who you helped most likely has bad credit. So, he or she does not care whether another negative mark appears on his or her credit report. Needless to say, you have much more to lose.
You can destroy a friendship or family relationship: This one is pretty simple. Once you are on the hook, you need to make sure the other party makes the required payments and makes those payments on time. Monitoring those payments can cause you stress, especially if you have to call your friend or family member to ask why payments were not made. Plus, if they stop paying completely, it can cause extreme strife on your relationship and your finances.
Remember, one missed or late payment could mean a black mark on your credit. You may not be very willing to forgive or forget, and that can definitely destroy a friendship and has ruined families.
You are 100 per cent liable on the loan that could be a significant amount: Failure to pay on the loan means the lender will come after you for the entire balance. You are allowed to make the other party contribute, but you can't just pay half of the loan.
You could face tax consequences if the debt is settled: The lender might not want to go through the trouble of suing you and agree to settle the balance owed. That will mean you could have tax liability for the difference.
Co-signing could make approval of a loan you might need impossible: Before you co-sign, think about if you will need to use your credit soon. A friend of mine had a car loan, co-signed on another car loan for his wife and then wanted to help his parents who had less-than-perfect credit. The lender said he had too much credit in his name and denied his application.
If he was the one in need of the car, he would have been denied because he helped his parents and wife. You must consider that in the future, someone might need to use that excellent credit: you.
You'll be making that payment if your co-signer defaults: Be prepared to make the loan payment. I would tell you to take the monthly payment and put it into a savings account and then keep it there. Once you have 12 monthly payments saved, you can stop saving. Hopefully, you never have to pay more than 12 payments on the loan, but be prepared for the worst-case scenario that you have to make the payment.
You may need to sue the other responsible party if payments are not made and you get sued: This is a very tough option. Even though you are both 100 per cent liable for the debt, you can demand the other party pay for half of the loan. Oftentimes, many clients that get sued for co-signing on an unpaid loan want to get the other party to pay. When you get sued, you need to bring the other responsible party into the lawsuit in order to get them to help with the monthly payment.
Obviously, that could be hard to do. You might not be able to find the other party, or he or she might not be working. You want the judgment and responsibility to pay on the judgment to be on both co-signing parties.
If you are not able to bring the other party into the lawsuit, you can sue them later on to contribute to your monthly payment. Unfortunately, getting a judgment against the other party is much easier than getting him or her to pay. Sometimes, you may need to hire a debt collection attorney or law firm to assist you.
You have to be organised enough to keep track of the payments: Think it's hard enough to keep track of all your bills and payments? Well, if you co-sign, you'll also need to keep track of someone else's bills and payments. This will mean checking each month either online or by calling customer service to make sure the payment has been made. You can't blindly believe all payments will be made. Don't wait until some collector calls you, saying payments have not been made in six months. By then, your credit will already have been negatively impacted.
As you can see, it is advisable you should never co-sign, and these 10 reasons should deter you. I wish you luck if you find yourself in a position in which you feel you have no choice.
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Saturday, December 1, 2012
Christmas Porch
28 comments:
- Leslie's Garden said...
This is so adorable! What a great inspirational post! I want to do something on my front porch, I'll be sure to bookmark this post for future reference! I love the little rustic birds with the birdhouses. And the little bunny is too precious!
- December 1, 2012 at 6:41 PM
- Shelia said...
Oh, your porch looks so precious! I love everything you've used and it really looks like a magazine shoot.
Be a sweetie,
Shelia :)
- December 1, 2012 at 6:57 PM
- Vickie @ Ranger 911 said...
Oh, that shade of green and red has me wanting to set a spell on your porch. I love everything you've done here!!!
- December 1, 2012 at 7:19 PM
- Ann said...
Looks so pretty, I love the way the red beads look on the fir tree. Very vintage with each item.
- December 1, 2012 at 7:34 PM
- Pamela said...
Laura your holiday porch is just perfect! I love your bunny.
- December 1, 2012 at 7:42 PM
- Debby said...
Your porch is so nice. I love all the fun things you used.
- December 1, 2012 at 7:42 PM
- Annesphamily said...
Your porch is precious and that bunny standing guard is sweet! All the birdhouses may net you a few renters this season! LOL! I imagine your weather can get very cold like it can be here in Colorado. I enjoyed your porch very much. Have a beautiful weekend.
- December 1, 2012 at 9:27 PM
- Snap said...
I love your porch ... a great combination of winter and the holidays. So much fun with the skates and the sled. Love the red lights!
- December 2, 2012 at 8:05 AM
- Carol said...
Hoping for snow here in the AZ desert would be a total wasted effort, but we do get to enjoy all kinds of beautiful outdoor flowers, including poinsettias, this time of year. Your front porch is so charming, and I adore your collection of little birdhouses.
- December 2, 2012 at 12:05 PM
- Ivy and Elephants said...
Your porch looks amazing! I know Santa will not be able to miss your home. What an inviting vignette.
We'd love to have you share it at Ivy and Elephants.
- December 2, 2012 at 12:18 PM
- Sue said...
Porch bunnies and vintage wagons- I luv it all! Hoping for a White Christmas too.
- December 2, 2012 at 12:20 PM
- Madelief said...
Dear Laura,
You know how to decorate! Your porch looks like a photograph from a magazine. So very atmospheric. Love it!!!
Happy new week,
Madelief x
- December 2, 2012 at 3:18 PM
- NanaDiana said...
Laura-Your porch looks so nicce! It is festive and fun looking. That last photo with the effects is great! Have a wonderful Sunday- xo Diana
- December 2, 2012 at 3:24 PM
- Ray Lynn said...
Hey! You are right that IS a fun photo edit. Glad that you have such cool decorations! I especially like the vintage wagon and cow bell!
- December 2, 2012 at 7:32 PM
- podso said...
I like your porch decorations. Natural, festive and so pretty. Great name, flurry fest!
- December 3, 2012 at 6:21 AM
- Annie said...
Your decoration is beautiful. I especially love the bunny and stone birds, making your porch look so lovely!
- December 3, 2012 at 10:25 AM
- allisamazing said...
Your porch looks so lovely and all ready for Christmas!
- December 3, 2012 at 12:01 PM
- Lynn Proctor said...
i love your touch--esp. the tree with just the red beads and leaning--so cool!
- December 3, 2012 at 12:25 PM
- Pam said...
Very cute! Love the green star and red table together. That is my favorite shade of green.
- December 3, 2012 at 1:42 PM
- Marissa said...
Love your porch! Looks so merry!..
- December 3, 2012 at 11:05 PM
- Debra said...
nice old-fashioned decor / love it!
No snow yet here in Western PA aside from a day or two of light showers...no accumulation
- December 4, 2012 at 11:37 AM
- ~Lavender Dreamer~ said...
I love that old weathered birdhouse with the decorations you put on it! And the last photo is great fun! I love this effect! I wonder if it is in a editing site I can use! Happy holidays!
- December 4, 2012 at 1:12 PM
- Dawn said...
Thanks so much for stopping by the "Cabin" and inviting me over to your place. I must say I love your style and the colors are fab. Love it all so much I am your newest follower. I also live in Michigan by the way.
- December 4, 2012 at 6:58 PM
- Rachelle Falcon said...
What fun Christmas decorations! They look great on your porch- love it!!
- December 5, 2012 at 2:21 PM
- Dawn said...
So glad to have you link up this week. I love your decorating style and cant wait to see what you will have for next week:)
- December 5, 2012 at 10:55 PM
- Annmarie Pipa said...
so very pretty and festive! love all of your touches!!
- December 6, 2012 at 10:18 AM
- Emilie's daughter said...
I wish I had a porch too... it is magical... we are having snow here and I do hope it'll stay until Christmas! Christa
- December 7, 2012 at 2:29 AM
- Jann Olson said...
Hi Laura,
I know that I have featured you more than once. But girl, you did it again. Love your porch and will be featuring it at Share Your Cup.
- December 19, 2012 at 4:17 PM

subset: commoncrawl


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A wide selection of pool tables, billiard accessories, patio furniture, umbrellas, daybeds, quality outdoor accessories and unique decor items - Everything for your interior and exterior entertainment and enjoyment. We deliver to Brossard, Trois-Rivieres, Gatineau and other cities throughout Quebec.Web design and development by DavidCouillard.com


text: Hugh Hefner is living the dream of just about every heterosexual teen boy as the face of a groundbreaking adult entertainment empire. But before establishing Playboy magazine, opening the private key clubs, building the over-the-top mansion complete with girl-filled swimming grotto, inspiring a TV show and living 24-7 in silky robes, he was your average unmotivated student with an alleged IQ of 152 and strict Methodist parents. The founder of a high school newspaper served in the Army during World War II, attended the Chicago Art Institute and earned a psychology degree at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (where he met first wife Mildred Williams). He then worked at Esquire as a promotional copywriter until 1953 when he raised $8,000 to launch Playboy with a nude pic of Marilyn Monroe. It was an instant hit, but workaholic issues and extramarital affairs eventually led the mother of his children Christie and David to leave him in 1959. In the '60s heyday, Playboy Enterprises built resorts, started modeling agencies, published books, produced movies and operated a record company. He hosted two weekly talk shows. The Walk of Fame star recipient created the jazz fest in 1978. A stroke in 1985 slowed him down and he married Kimberly Conrad in 1989, a union that produced two sons but ended in 1998. From 2005-09, his multitude of girlfriends was chronicled on E! reality show "The Girls Next Door." He married one of them, Crystal Harris, when he was 86.


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Sun staff photos can be ordered by visiting our MyCapture site.
LOWELL -- Like many good souls whose lives end way too soon, Catie Bisson's reknown has only grown since her death in March 2010 from a heart condition she had since birth.
But that's not all.
The Lowell High School grad's closets have multiplied nine-fold in that time. That's because Bisson's mother, Anne-Marie, has made a point of turning her grief into just the kind of positive action Catie wanted to be her legacy, gathering gently used clothing and accessories donations for local students who are homeless or from low-income families.
After opening the first Catie's Closet at Lowell High School in May 2010, Anne-Marie followed with another, then another.
This weekend, she and a host of student volunteers, plus her board of directors, christened the latest Catie's Closet locations at Alvirne High School, in Hudson, N.H., and at the Laura Lee Therapeutic Day School in Lowell with help from student volunteers.
"We hung 400 pieces of clothing today, so the kids get really excited," Bisson said, adding that Dracut High School has also reached out to her about expanding the charity there.
"Anne-Marie has been so easy to work with and so giving. It's just such an awesome service," Laura Lee social worker Jessalyn Deveny-McNamar said.
"Shoes and sneakers for gym class is a big thing. It's all about self-esteem for these kids.
"At Alvirne, we have two separate spaces. It's wonderful for us. One whole room has jeans and tops and the other room has sweatshirts, flip flops, sneakers, belts and boots," Bisson said.
Members of the school's Ambassadors of Hope student-volunteer group were among those who helped install the outlet, painting the walls a couple different shades of purple.
"We called all hands on the deck -- custodial staff, building-trade students. It was nice to spend a morning aiding the school community and that's a point of pride. I was impressed with the energy of the people who came," new Alvirne High School Principal Steve Beals said.
Catie's aunt, Laura Bisson, is on the Hudson School Committee and she has a cousin who attends Alvirne High School.
While most of the items are gently used, the clothes and accessories that Catie's Closet accepts feature current styles from popular labels like Pac Sun, Hollister and American Eagle.
Catie, who would have been 23, was the third of Bisson's four children.
There's a particular need for donations of new undergarments, socks and toiletries and larger-sized jeans for boys and girls to the Catie's Closet distribution center in Dracut, Bisson said.
Donors can keep track of the greatest needs through the charity's website, which should be re-launched sometime in the next week.
On March 23, the third anniversary of Catie's death, the Bisson family plans to host a fundraiser gala at the Andover Country Club, featuring live entertainment by Moonglow, a popular Boston group.
While the charity's immediate goal is to make sure students all have clothes they feel good in, the real mission is to make sure they show up at school every day.
Since providing them with fashionable duds that pass muster with their more well-heeled peers is more of a means to an ends, Bisson has also recently expanded her outreach to the purchase of tokens and monthly LRTA bus passes for LHS students who weren't getting to school.
"It's kind of taking care of these basic needs, so they'll get that education," she said.


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Watch CBSN Live
Methamphetamine is an illegal drug that acts as a central nervous system stimulant. Not only is the drug highly addictive, people quickly build a tolerance to it, leading them to use more and more of the substance.
Side effects of using meth include paranoia, hallucinations and repetitive behavior, according to the Partnership for a Drug Free America. People can also have delusions of parasites or insects crawling under the skin which leads them to scratch themselves. Long-term use of meth, high dosages, or both can cause psychosis and paranoia. In some cases, it can even lead to stroke and death.
Rehabs.com, a nationwide directory of rehabilitation centers, compiled mug shots of methamphetamine addicts to show how the progression of drug abuse impacted their looks over a relatively short period of time.
Keep clicking to see the devastating effects.
Angelic at age 31 (left) and 34.
Credit: Rehabs.com
According to Rehabs.com, these images were retrieved from mug shot records across the country and reside in the public domain. While many of these images are taken from individuals specifically cited in the record for methamphetamine-related offenses, some images were selected for inclusion based on inference. By examining the progression of physical symptoms, location of arrest, information from third party sources, and details of each individual arrest record, the selections were made based on a strong likelihood of methamphetamine abuse, and a definitive prior history of varied drug abuse.
User Adora at age 48.
Adora at age 53
Skin conditions such as acne as well as the scabs from continuous picking are often visible among meth addicts.
Rehabs.com, a nationwide directory of rehabilitation centers, compiled mug shots of methamphetamine addicts to show the progression of drug abuse on their looks over a relatively short period of time. Keep clicking to see the devastating effects.
Alberta at age 23
Alberta at age 28
Since methamphetamine can quell hunger, people often lose fat and muscle tissue when abusing the drug.
Angelic at age 31
Angelic at age 34
Credit: Rehab.com
Bobby at age 37
Bobby at age 39
Christina at age 23
Christina at age 24
Darlene at age 37
Darlene at age 39
Dawn at age 24
Dawn at age 28
Devan at age 18
Devan at age 21
Heather at age 27
Heather at age 30
Jordan at age 23
Jordan at age 25
Kari at age 32
Kari at age 38
Krystal at age 27
Krystal, just six months later at age 28
Matthew at age 19
Credit: Rehabscom
Matthew at age 29
Noel at age 27
Noel at age 30
Jordan at age 49
Patricia at age 52
Raymond at age 36
Raymond at age 39
Robin at age 32
Robin at age 42
Ronald at age 20
Ronald at age 29
Shaun at age 19
Shaun at age 34
Sophia at age 20
Sophia at age 26
Timothy at age 28
Timothy at age 44


text:
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Casa Del Campo invites you to come and experience the simplicity and spontaneity of traditional Dominican food and tropical cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere. We have been doing it for over three decades – constantly enhancing and perfecting our service – and have become a favorite for those who appreciate true Dominican cuisine.
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Brigance Forum Lecture To Be Presented on Thursdayby Karen Handley • April 8, 2005 Share:
Wabash College invites you to hear, David Zarefsky give the 2005 Brigance Forum on Thursday, April 14, at 8 p.m. in Salter Hall in the Fine Arts Center. The title of his talk is "Two Faces of Democratic Rhetoric." Zarefsky's lecture will kick off a three day conference at Wabash, hosted by the Center of Inquiry, "Rhetoric and Democratic Citizenship: A Colloquy in Honor of W. Norwood Brigance."
Zarefsky is Owen L. Coon Professor of Argumentation and Debate, and Professor of Communication Studies, at Northwestern University, where he served as Dean of the School of Speech from 1988 through June 2000. He joined the Northwestern faculty in 1968 and rose through the ranks, becoming Professor in 1982. He also has held a series of administrative appointments, including Director of Forensics (1970-75), Chair of the Department of Communication Studies (1975-83), Associate Dean of the School of Speech (1983-88), and Dean.
Zarefsky's research and teaching are in the areas of rhetorical history and criticism, argumentation and debate, and forensics. He is the author, co-author, or editor of eight books and the author of over 50 articles in professional journals. Two of his books have won the Winans-Wichelns Award for Distinguished Scholarship in Rhetoric and Public Address, an award of the National Communication Association: President Johnson's War
on Poverty: Rhetoric and History (University of Alabama Press, 1986) and Lincoln, Douglas, and Slavery: In the Crucible of Public Debate (University of Chicago Press, 1990). He is one of only three individuals to have won this award twice. In 1994 he was named to the ranks of NCA Distinguished Scholars. He also has twice won the "Best Article Award" from the Southern States Communication Association.
The Brigance Forum is an annual public lecture or debate in memory of the late William Norwood Brigance, teacher, scholar and leader in the Speech Association of America. In his 38 years at Wabash College, "Briggie" taught generations of Wabash students how to be more effective when they spoke and, through his textbooks, he taught thousands more in American high schools and colleges. As editor of the pioneer History and Criticism of American Public Address and as editor of the Quarterly Journal of Speech, he gave direction to the scholarship of the field, and as President of the Speech Association of America, he guided the profession through the expansion of the postwar years. The Brigance family, friends, former students whom he taught, and those who continued the tradition of Speech at Wabash after him, have, through their contributions, endowed this program as an ongoing memorial to William Norwood Brigance.
His talk is free and open to the public.
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Get directions to Wabash College #GetLoc.LocationName#


text:
Michigan loses to Kansas State 31-14 in BWW Bowl
Shane Morris looked at ease in his first career start, calmly
leading Michigan on two scoring drives to open the game.
The Wolverines had to settle for field goals, though, and never
were able to catch up against Kansas State.
Morris threw for 196 yards, but Michigan's offense failed to
capitalize on its early chances and its defense struggled all night
in a 31-14 loss in the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl on Saturday.
"Definitely a disappointing game," offensive tackle Taylor
Lewan said. "But given the situation, I think this team played
like they did all season. I know our record didn't show how hard we
worked, how hard we fought."
Morris was steady in place of injured starter Devin Gardner,
completing 24 of 38 passes with a late interception.
Michigan (7-6) didn't give him much run support, gaining 65
yards on 15 carries, and finished with 261 total yards – 82 on a
late scoring drive with the game out of reach.
The Wolverines also had trouble with Kansas State's offense,
particularly early, allowing the Wildcats to score on their first
three possessions and roll up 420 total yards.
"We didn't play well enough in a lot of areas," Michigan coach
Brady Hoke said.
Jake Waters and Tyler Lockett did most of the damage against
Michigan's defense, connecting for three touchdowns.
Waters threw for 271 yards on 21-of-27 passing and ran for 42
more yards. Lockett set a school record with 10 catches for 116
yards and tied the Kansas State bowl record with his three TDs to
help the Wildcats (8-5) end a five-game bowl losing streak that
dated to the 2002 Holiday Bowl.
"To win the way we did it put a nice little cap to our
season," Waters said. "The journey we have been through, to end
like this is special."
Kansas State finished the season strong after some early
difficulties – starting with a home loss to FCS opponent North
Dakota State. The Wildcats won five of their final six games while
scoring at least 31 points in each.
Michigan limped to the finish after a 5-0 start, losing five of
its final seven games and Gardner along the way. The redshirt
junior injured his toe in the regular-season finale against Ohio
State and didn't recover in time for the bowl game, leaving the
Wolverines in the hands of Morris.
The freshman hasn't played much over the past year, limited to
four games as a high school senior due to mononucleosis and to nine
pass attempts as Gardner's backup this season.
Morris didn't seem to mind being thrust into the spotlight as
the first Michigan quarterback to make his first career start in a
bowl game. He was helped by a conservative game plan filled with
short throws early and started unleashing his big left arm by
Michigan's second drive, completing 15 of 19 passes for 121 yards
in the first half.
"You would have thought he was doing it five years now," Lewan
The problem for the Wolverines was they couldn't finish off
drives, settling for field goals of 22 and 26 yards by Matt
That was good for Wile, who made one field goal all season, but
not for Michigan because its defense couldn't stop the Wildcats –
particularly the Waters-to-Lockett combination.
Kansas State set the tone on its opening drive, grinding out 75
yards in 15 plays and 7:51 off the clock. Lockett capped it with a
6-yard touchdown catch after the Wildcats' line gave Waters just
enough time to get the throw off against Michigan's blitz.
Lockett set up the next drive with a 40-yard kickoff return and
capped it with a 29-yard touchdown catch, set up by Waters' pump
fake that gave him separation behind Michigan's defense.
Kansas State raced down the field again on its next drive,
setting up Lockett's third touchdown, an 8-yarder from Waters that
put the Wildcats up 21-6 at halftime.
"We wanted to get a fast start and we did," Lockett said. "We
got on top of them early and that helped us out."
The Wildcats bogged down in the second half, but so did the
Michigan had 23 total yards in the third quarter and failed to
capitalize on the game's first turnover – a fumble by Daniel Sams –
by going three-and-out.
Kansas State's Ian Anderson hit a 22-yard field goal in the
fourth quarter, John Hubert scored on a 1-yard run after Morris'
interception and the Wildcats celebrated Bill Snyder's seventh bowl
victory by chasing the 74-year-old coach down the sideline for a
water-bucket dump.


text:
The hull of the new Rainbow Warrior III on dry ground at the Fassmer Shipyard in Berne. The ship is being prepared to be lifted into the water. The Rainbow Warrior is Greenpeace's first purpose-built vessel, and will be officially launched in Autumn 2011.07/04/2011
© Oliver Tjaden / Greenpeace
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There are unmistakable signs the flu season is slowing down in northeastern Pennsylvania and other parts of the state, and the numbers are down in Monroe County as well.
There are unmistakable signs the flu season is slowing down in northeastern Pennsylvania and other parts of the state, and the numbers are down in Monroe County as well.
Figures released Tuesday by the state Department of Health show there were 1,082 new laboratory-confirmed cases in Pennsylvania last week. That is down from 1,275 the week before and from 3,683 three weeks ago.
It was the fourth straight week the numbers have dipped.
"We are experiencing a decline, which is great news," said Department of Health spokeswoman Kate Gillis. "But flu season is unpredictable and we don't know how drawn out it is going to be."
The number of lab-positive cases since the influenza season began last fall stands at just more than 34,000 statewide. Lab-confirmed cases are only a fraction of actual cases.
Across northeastern Pennsylvania, 89 new cases were reported last week, raising the seasonal total to 1,709.
Locally, confirmed flu cases at Pocono Medical Center have dropped in the last month, according to hospital spokesman Geoffrey Roche.
He said the week of Feb. 10-16, eight cases were confirmed, as opposed to 26 at its peak from Jan. 13-19. Since Sunday, there have only been three cases, he said. "We've seen that steady decline here," Roche said.
At Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, there has been a "definite dropoff," spokeswoman Wendy Wilson said.
"This past week we've only had to admit one positive case and in the past three weeks we've only seen two or three positive cases overall," she said.
The health department said there have been 154 flu-related deaths in the state, including 14 last week. The vast majority of the deaths — 87 percent — have been among people 65 or older.
Gillis said there is still time for people who have not done so to get the flu vaccine.
Even though flu activity appears to have peaked, the number of new cases emerging each week in Pennsylvania is still higher than those recorded during the peak weeks of many past years, she said.
"People might think the flu season is over, but it's not," she said.
Roche said at the hospital and its facilities throughout the county, the hospital has asked all staff, patients and visitors at the hospital to cover their mouth and nose at all times when they cough or sneeze.
If someone is coughing or sneezing persistently, they are "kindly" asked to wear a mask while they are in the buildings.
He also said high-use areas of kitchens and other rooms should be disinfected often and that everyone should thoroughly wash their hands.
Pocono Record Writer Michael Sadowski
contributed to this report.


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Statement by Dr. Shirley Chater,
Commissioner of Social Security,
before the House Committee on Ways and Means
Subcommittee on Social Security
May 23, 1995
Mr. Chairman and Members ofthe Subcommittee:
Thank you for inviting me here today to discuss the administration ofthe disability insurance (DI) program. As you know, this is my first time before this Subcommittee since SSA became an independent agency on March 31, 1995. We are truly entering a new chapter in our history. I would, therefore, like to emphasize today that I am strongly committed to working with the Congress on all issues affecting programs administered by SSA. Working together, I believe we will be successful in providing the public with the quality, integrity, and efficiency of service that they expect and deserve.
You asked me to focus my testimony on the causes and extent ofthe disability workloads we are facing, the initiatives we have developed to address them, and disability program growth. I am pleased to repor! that we have made measurable progress in managing our initial disabil ity claims and hearing-level workloads and have substantially increased the number of continuing disability reviews (CDRs) that we conduct. I will be providing more detail about these improvements later inmy testimony. I would also like to tell you about one of our initiatives which will assist beneficiaries in re-entering the workforce--our return-to-work strategy. But before I discuss these issues, let me briefly describe the disability program and the people it serves.
The purpose of the DI program, as reflected in Congressional Committee reports in the Social Security amendments of 1956, is to extend Social Security protection for workers and their families due to the loss of earned income when the family provider becomes disabled. To qualify for disability benefits, a worker must meettwo basic requirements. That is, a person must have worked a prescribed period of time in employment that is covered under the Social Security program and must be unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity because of a medically-determinable physical or mental impairment. Further, that impairment must be expected to last for at least 12 months, or to result in death.
In fiscal year (FY) 1994, the DI program provided benefits totaling about $37 billion to 5.5 million disabled individuals and their families. These individuals are among our most vulnerable citizens, who, in many cases, depend upon Social Security benefits for their very existence. These facts are important to keep inmind as we examine the DI program.
Despite the fact that disability requirements are very difficult to meet, the DI program has experienced increased growth in recent years. Growth like this is not a new phenomenon. Historically, the DI program has experienced other surges in growth. During the early and mid-1970s, the number of beneficiaries in the DI program increased dramatically before leveling off in the late 1970s and then declining. Program growth continued to decl ine until FY 1984 when a steady progression of growth began and continued throughout the remainder of the 1980s. In the early 1990s, the program experienced a sharp increase, and then returned to a steady progression of growth.
It is crucial to analyze the reasons for growth in the disability program in order to successfully plan for: (1) our resource needs to deal with future workloads; and (2) policy changes to meet the needs of a potentially changing society. To determine the causes for the recent growth, SSA, in conjunction with the Department of Health and Human Services, conducted an analysis in 1992 of the Dl program and prepared a report which presented some preliminary findings for the Board of Trustees ofthe Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance and Disability Trust Funds. We were unable to quantify the impact of our preliminary findings, such as unemployment and demographics, on program growth. Therefore, the Board of Trustees recommended that we initiate a research effort to establish whether the growth represents a temporary phenomenon or a longer-term trend.
In response to this recommendation, in 1993 we beganmajor short- and long-term research efforts, including contracting with Lewin-VHI, a highly respected social research analysis firm, to produce an independent assessment which would quantify the reasons for disability program growth.
We know that program growth is driven by both an increase in the number ofapplications and a decrease in benefit terminations. For example, SSA received more than 2.6 million initial disability applications in FY 1994, compared to about 1.7 million in FY 1990--an increase of more than 60 percent in just 5 years.
Lewin's findings to date confirm the relationship between the increase of applications and program growth. Lewin found that about half of the 40 percent increase in the number of applications between 1988 and 1992 relates to the early 1990s recession, population growth and aging, and increases in the number ofwomen insured for disability benefits. Specifically:
- The number of applications increased in the early 1990s when poor economic conditions prevailed. Lewin found that about 20 percent of total Dl application growth related to increases in the unemployment rate between 1988 and 1992. Moreover, Lewin estimated that had the unemployment rate remained the same in 1992 as in 1988, 62,000 fewer applications would have been filed just in 1992.
- Also, Lewin estimated that 15 percent of appl ication growth relates to demographic factors such as the baby boomers entering disability-prone years, and 10 percent relates to the increasing proportion of women who have worked long enough to be insured for DIbenefits. We expect these trends to continue.
- Lewin's findings showed that the remaining half of the application growth was related to other factors, such as AIDs, State program cuts and DI program changes resulting from legislation, regulations, and court decisions.
As I already indicated, the other factor afTecting DI program growth is disability benefit terminations, or the number of people leaving the disability rolls. Disability benefits are terminated when a beneficiary medically improves, returns to work, dies, or reaches age 65 and transfers to the retirement rolls. The annual percentage of beneficiaries whose disability benefits are terminated has steadily declined. In FY 1990, benefits for about 11 percent of DI workers were terminated. In FY 1994, the figure dropped to about 9.5 percent. This decline is due to:
- increased life expectancy,
- more awards to people withdisabling mental impairments who tend to be youngerand physically healthier, and
- a lower average age of disability beneficiaries due to the baby boom cohort.
Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs)
While SSA has little or no control over certain factors affecting the increase in the number of applications, we have a process that can affect the number of benefi ciaries who remain on the DI rolls--continuing disability reviews (CDRs). Also, we have a strategy to assist beneficiaries to re-enter the workforce. Let me first briefly provide you with some background on CDRs and bring you up to date with our current actions in this area. Following that, I will explain what we are doing to encourage beneficiaries to seek employment.
The Social Security Act requires SSA to review the continuing eligibility of individuals with non-permanent disabilities at least once every 3 years. This was intended to ensure that individuals remain on the disability rolls only if they continue to be disabled according to the statutory definition.
In the past, as initial claims workloads escalated, difficult decisions had to be made about the prudent use of limited administrative resources. Thus, decisions were made in previous years to give highest pri ority to processing initial claims and less emphasis was placed on CDRs. Recognizing that we needed to strike a better balance between addressing the growing workloads in initial disability claims and conducting CDRs, we implemented a more efficient CDR process in 1993.
The new CDR process includes a profiling method that helps identify those disability beneficiaries scheduled for CDRs who are most likely to have medically improved as well as those with little likelihood of improvement. Once profiled, those cases identified as likely improvements are sent for a full medical review. Those identified as having little likelihood of improvement are sent a questionnaire asking for updated information about theirmedical condition, and their responses are reviewed against information in our files. This process allows SSA to identify certain cases for a full medical review based on the beneficiary's response which indicated a greater likelihood of medical improvement than predicted earlier.
The new process which is almost twice as cost effective immediately began to pay dividends. For every dollar invested in administrative expenses (calculated on a lifetime present-value basis), we realize about $6 in program cost savings.
In addition to implementing a new CDR process, we are determined to increase the number of CDRs we conduct. In FY 1995, we expect to process about 271,000 CDRs, the most processed since FY 1989. And, we proposed an FY 1996 budget which would establish, for the first time ever, an earmarked amount for processing CDRs. The $215 million requested will allow us to process 431,100 CDRs--a nearly three-fold increase over the 152,000 reviews processed in FY 1994.
I want to assure you that we are committed to intensifying efforts to ensure that only those people who are eli gible for disability benefits receive them. Therefore, as we refine our CDR process, we will continue to employ quality assurance measures to ensure the integrity of the process.
Return-to-Work Strategy
Another key initiative related to program growth thatwe have undertaken on a priority basis is our retum-to-work strategy. The employment strategy is designed to help individuals with disabilities re-enter the workforce. This is a crucial effort since, historically, very few individuals who receive DI benefits ever leave the rolls to return to work.
I have established a proactive strategy team, headed by Dr. Susan Daniels, to develop approaches to increase the employment of current and potential disability beneficiaries. In the near future, we will make decisions about how best to design employment strategies. I am optimistic that we can help many of our beneficiaries achieve a more rewarding life, while at the sametime reducing disability program costs.
Let me now turn to another issue you asked me to address, our disability claims workload.
To give the discussion of workloads context, I want to briefly describe how disability claims are handled today.
Initial disability claims are taken in Social Security offices located throughout the country. Local field office staff request and evaluate information about the non-medical aspects of each person's claim, such as whether or not the individual has worked enough to qualify for benefits. Field office staff also obtain information about claimant'! impairments, including treating medical sources. Claims are then forwarded to the federally-funded, but State administered, disability determination services (DDSs), in the State where the person lives. State DDS staff obtain and review necessary medical evidence and make the disability determinations based on Social Security regulations and guidelines. This process has been in effect since the beginning of the disability program and was designed to take advantage of the States' established links with the medical community and experience in dealing with the needs of the disabled in State programs.
Individuals dissatisfied with their disability decision may request a reconsideration which is reviewed at the State DDS. If the reconsideration is denied, individuals may request a hearing before an administrative law judge. And, if still dissatisfied, individuals may request an Appeals Council review. Each level of review involves multi-step procedures for evidence collection, review, and decision making.
The current disability process is very lengthy and time consuming. One of the main reasons why it takes so long is that many employees handle each claim. As many as 26 employees are now involved in processing an initial disability claim, and about 45 employees are involved in processing an appeal in which the claimant has requested a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). This process, combined with the increase in initial disability applications in recent years, has had a tremendous effect on our initial disability workloads.
We have also experienced particularly high increases in the number of reque sts for hearings filed over the last several years. This increase is not surprising, however, considering that in FY 1994 we processed one milli on more initial disability claims than in FY 1990. Let me explain. Accelerating the number of initial disability claims processed has a direct impact on workloads at the hearing level. That is because many beneficiaries who receive an adverse determination appeal their decision. Thus, the more initial claims processed, the more denied and the more appealed.
I am pleased to report that in FY 1994 we were able to process 40 percent more hearing cases compared to FY 1990. This improvement was accomplished with a 44 percent increase in the use of overtime and the hiring of about 200 additional ALJs in FY 1994. Even so, we have not been able to keep up with the increase in requests for hearings. Workloads increased 34 percent in FY 1994 and processing time averaged 337 days compared to 263 days in FY 1993.
The enormous challenges facing the disability program in the form of unprecedented workloads combined with staffing reductions required that we take immediate action. We responded to the upward trends in disability workloads with two important initiatives--a Short-Term Disability Project and a redesign of the disability process (which should be fully implemented by the year 2000).
While the primary objective in the disability redesign effort is to improve the entire disability process, the goal of the Short-Term plan is to significantly reduce the number of pending claims by December 1996 in a way that will support the long-term redesigned disability process. In addition, quality assurance principles are built into these initiatives.
Short-Term Disability Project
The Short-Term initiatives will reduce the number of claims pending in the State disability determination services (DDSs). As part of the initiative. we are providing additional funds to DOSs to increase the ir case processing capacity. and we are redirecting headquarters sta ff to assist in processing workloads.
We have already seen positive results in the State DDSs' pending workloads from our ShortTerm initiatives. Pending workloads have dropped by about 45.000, or 6 percent, and processing time has decreased slightly since the Short-Term plan was implemented last October. These results are encouraging.
With regard to pending hearing-level workloads, while the numbers have increased, we have not fully implemented the most significant actions. We believe we will begin to sec a decline in pending cases before the end of the year. These actions include:
- expanding the prehearing conference procedures to ensure claimants' files are complete ; and
- granting temporary authority to experienced staff attorneys and paralegal specialists to make allowances in certain prehearing cases.
It is important to understand that these initiatives preserve the key principles and parameters ofour adjudicative process- the decisional independence of ALJs and the rights of claimants to a hearing. They also preserve the exclusive role of ALJs to hear and decide cases rather than burdening them with matters that do not require their expertise.
Redesign of the Disability Claims Process
This brings me to a discussion of our long-term effort to improve the disability claims process-the disability redesign. Many of SSA's procedures for processing disability clai ms are based, in large part, on procedures begun 40 years ago. Our customers view the disability process as bureaucratic and unresponsive to their needs. And, our escalating workloads have made it difficult for SSA to provide a satisfactory level ofservice to claimants who file for disability benefits. As you know, one of our goals is for Social Security to become a world-class service provider, and considering the many challenges facing the DI program, we determined that our first efforts to achieve this goal would address the disability determination process.
Moreover, it was clear even before I arrived at SSA that the current systemwas not working and that incremental change would not fix it. I doubt that anyone involved with the current process, and who has observed the avalanche ofwork flooding into field offices, the State DDS, and the Office of Hearings and Appeals believe that tinkering at the edges will permit us to give theAmerican public the s-rvice they deserve.
The primary objectives of this new redesign effort include making:
- the process "user friendly." Claimants will be able to choose their mode of access to SSA--in person, mail, phone, computer, through third parties, etc.;
- the right decision the first time. Two examples of changes that support more accurate decisions are enhanced quality assurance and simplified decision methodology;
- a decision as quickly as possible. The redesign creates additional opportunities for face-to-face interviews with the claimant. In addition, disability claims' documentation will be greatly improved; and
- work satisfying foremployees. Teamwork and workforce empowerment are fundamental ingredients in the new redesign process.
The success of the redesigned process will be measured against these overall objectives and, of course, emphasis will be continually placed on overall measurement from the customer's perspective.
Our redesign plan is the result of a rigorous. high-level investigation of the Reengineering efforts ofcompanies, public organizations, academic institutions, and consulting firms with the most hands-on experience in reengineering. We also facilitated open communications with various unions representing both SSA employees and State DDS employees and various management associations recognized as having an interest in disability issues.
The redesign of SSA's disability process is a long-term initiative with a project life expected to run beyond the tum of the century. Nevertheless, we are moving quickly to implement those aspects of the new process that can be implemented in the near-term, including major changes in the way claimants access ourprocess and the way we process initial claims and requests for a hearing. More specifically we are:
- Enhancing public information. Comprehensive disability information will be available to claimants, medical providers, and appropriate organizations, with particular emphasis on claimant participation in securing medical evidence;
- Training disability adjudicators on critical areas. We are preparing training materials for adjudicators on: the evaluation ofpain, residual functional assessment, and weight given to treating source evidence; and
- Developing an adjudication officer position. The adjudication officerwould conduct pre-hearing conferences to narrow the issues ofa case and, if the evidence warrants. issue favorable decisions based on the record.
I would like to emphasize that any regulation-based change in the process will be tested and reevaluated before fully implemented.
In addition, information technology will be a vital element in the new disability claim process. The new process relies heavily on fully funding of SSA's automation investment fund--the $88 million enacted in the FY 1995 appropriation and the $357 million requested for FY 1996. Automation is necessary so that electronic files that can be accessed from any SSA office. Accordingly, SSA will take advantage of the "Information Highway" and those technological advances that can improve the disability process and help provide world-class service. When fully implemented, we expect that the number of employees handling an initial disability claim will be reduced from as many as 26 to 8 employees and from as many as 45 to up to 14 employees at the hearing-level. Also, initial disability claims processing time will be reduced to about 60 days for initial decisions and to 225 days for decisions at the hearings level.
The new disability process represents a change in the lives of some of our employees. Some employees are concerned because there maybe major changes in the way in which they will work, and there is potential for relocations. While maintaining a focus on improving customer service, we will also be attentive to the concerns of our employees.
Although our progress to date is encouraging, we are by no means satisfied. The effort to make the disability program work better for Americans will require our dedicated effort and long-term committnent.
Therefore, in closing, let me summarize our approach to dealing with our disability workloads.
- First, we are totally redesigning a process that is not working well- our new process will be completed by the year 2000;
- Second, we are taking steps in the short-term to significantly reduce pending levels and processing times;
- Third, next year we are almost tripling the number of continuing disability reviews we will conduct; and
- Finally, we will continue to find ways to improve the process by focusing on our customers' needs. The public deserves a thorough, timely, responsive process. and we will deliver it.
We look forward to working closely with Congress as we move forward in implementing the disability redesign that will bring us much closer to providing world-clas s service to disability claimants.


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Since the biennial report was first published in 2003, Gap's reputation hasn't been untarnished. A fire at one of its Bangladesh factories, for one, killed 29 workers and injured another 100. In April, 2010, Gap inspectors uncovered forced overtime and overtime payment violations at Ocean Sky's manufacturing facility in El Salvador, a matter the brand says has been since resolved. And in 2007, Gap found itself in the throes of a child-labor scandal after at least one of its Indian vendors subcontracted a portion of its orders to sweatshop workers as young as eight.
The 99 percent of suppliers that Gap actively monitors must meet its Code of Vendor Conduct or risk termination.
The 99 percent of suppliers that Gap actively monitors must meet its Code of Vendor Conduct or risk termination.
Like many apparel labels and retailers, Gap does not own its own manufacturing facilities, which factors heavily with what falls within and without its sphere of influence. "Poor factory working conditions are unacceptable, yet the complex reality behind them defies easy solutions," it notes in the report. "In most cases, long-term solutions call for collaboration. We partner with stakeholders such as labor rights groups, trade unions, factory owners and management, governments, non-governmental organizations and other companies to make progress."
It may sound like a case of passing the buck, but the company does acknowledge the matters it does have clout with. The 99 percent of suppliers that Gap actively monitors must meet its Code of Vendor Conduct, last updated in 2008, or risk termination if they lack the intent or ability to resolve significant or persistent issues.
"Gap Inc. takes seriously the importance of being a responsible company," Glenn Murphy, the company's chairman and CEO, says in a statement. "For nearly 20 years, we've worked to address some of the major challenges facing our industry and to operate our business in line with our value to do what's right. While we're not perfect, we're proud of the progress made."
The jury, as they say, is still out.


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Santa-themed events in New England
Doing the old meet-and-greet with St. Nick at a department store? So 2011!! The jolly old elf in the fuzzy red suit has been shaking things up a bit. These days, you're likely to find him zooming down a ski slope, running a 5K with 2,000 of his best buds, and making his red-carpet arrival by parachute. It's amazing how much you can accomplish when fueled with cookies and milk.
Here is a look at some fun Santa-themed events taking place in New England this holiday season, where you can meet the man of the hour — or even play elf yourself.
Santa is a guy who likes a dramatic entrance. Perhaps practicing his Christmas Eve moves, Santa arrives in Salem (Dec. 7, 978-744-3663, www.salem.org) atop the Hawthorne Hotel, and descends a Salem Fire Department ladder truck to greet the children below. In seaports like Rockport, Mass. (Dec. 1, 978-283-1601, www.christmasinrockport.org), and Kennebunkport, Maine (Dec. 4, www.christmasprelude.com), Santa cruises into town on — what else — a lobster boat, taking part in parades and other festivities. He changes things up when he hits Mystic, Conn. (Nov. 24, 860-572-9578, www.mysticchamber.org), arriving by tugboat. Later, Santa returns to Mystic River Park to officially light the Christmas tree, as townsfolk sing "Here Comes Santa Claus." Then the Holiday Lighted Boat Parade begins, when 25 vessels glide down the river.
Of course, Santa is an aviation guy, given that his favorite mode of transport is a flying sled, but who knew he was into extreme sports? The man — and his elves — drop into Quincy by parachute. This daredevil move (Nov. 24, 12:30 p.m. in Pageant Field, 617-471-1700, www.thequincychamber.org) kicks off a weekend of holiday events in the South Shore city, including the 60th Annual Christmas Parade — the largest of its kind on the East Coast, they say. After Santa lands in the Granite City, he and his elves mingle with the crowd of 3,000 or so, and then he hitches a ride with the Fire Department.
He's accustomed to rowdy reindeer, so clearly Santa can handle a team of Alaskan sled dogs. See for yourself when he rolls into Waterville Valley Resort in Waterville Valley, N.H., on a dogsled. Upon arrival in Town Square, Santa and his elves meet with each child, doling out candy and small gifts; proceeds from photo sales ($5) benefit the Whole Village Family Resource Center. The day ends with fireworks (Nov. 24, 800-468-2553, www.visitwatervillevalley.com).
Imagine strolling down Church Street in Burlington, Vt., on a quiet Sunday morning and running smack into a pack of 2,000 sweaty Santas. It happens when St. Nick and friends show up for the second annual Santa 5K Run & Walk, run by Ri-Ra Irish Pub. This is a chance to play Santa yourself — the entry fee and runner pledges support Camp Ta-Kum-Ta, a year-round camp for children who have, or have had, cancer. "Most people sign up in groups of friends and family, and many run with their dogs and baby strollers that are decorated festively for the event," says Matt Messenger of Ri-Ra.
All participants receive a Santa suit and must wear it during the race. (Then you can keep it.) Afterward, runners go back to Ri-Ra for a hot Irish breakfast (Dec. 2, 802-860-9401, www.rira.com, entry fee $35, includes Santa suit and breakfast, $30 if you already own Santa-wear).
To participate in the Santa Speedo Run, you don't need a Santa suit, just a Santa hat and a swimsuit. The race began in Boston in 2000 with five guys looking to spread some holiday spirit by running through Back Bay in Santa hats and Speedos.
Now, more than 500 men and women run the mile race, and have helped raise more than $1 million for local children in need; this year's charity is the Play Ball Foundation. (Dec. 8, register online, www.ssrunners.org.) Race starts and ends at Lir Tavern, 903 Boylston St.
Given the stress of the holiday season, who can fault Santa for taking a day off from toy-making to hit the slopes — especially when he can ski for free? Dress like Santa — we're talking the full suit, not just a hat and beard — and you can enjoy the same perk on Santa Sunday at Sunday River Resort in Newry, Maine. (Dec. 2, 207-824-3000, www.sundayriver.com.) Registration for this annual event begins in late November on the resort's website. Participants — there were 250 last year — ski for free in their Santa suits, and get a free lift ticket to use anytime through Dec. 14. Everyone ponies up $10 or more as a cash donation for the Bethel Rotary Club's annual holiday toy drive.
"This is such a fun event," says Dana Bullen of Sunday River. "It's amazing to watch all those Santas skiing and snowboarding down the mountain. It gets everyone into the holiday mode, and it's for a great cause."
Diane Bair and Pamela Wright can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Thursday, April 15, 2010
Novel News
This is the big book John wrote when we were on the road promoting Honeydripper. The novel is set around 1900 in the US, Cuba, and the Philippines. Formerly called SOME TIME IN THE SUN, John retitled it from a quote from W.E.B. Dubois which goes something like, "After the Civil War the Negro spent a moment in the sun, but then was dragged back into slavery". There is a parallel to the Filipino fight for independence, and that is what John explores in his new movie BARYO/AMIGO.The characters and story of the film are not part of the book, but they come from the copious research John did for the book.
Read below, please, to see it in print!
"Film director John Sayles finally has book deal for long historical novel about Philippines," Los Angeles Times, April 13, 2010
Which is a follow-up to this article last year:
"John Sayles, novelist, seeks a binding agreement," Los Angeles Times, May 26, 2009
Some things are worth waiting for.
4 comments:
Hello, just read the whole blog. This looks fantastic, fantastic, has got to be one of the best next to, of course, Matewan. Maggie, you and John and Chris all look terrific and who is the soldier who looks like Gary Cooper? congratulations on the book deal, cant wait to read, and see, these two works set in the Philippines. xxNancy MReplyDelete
wow-what an update on the blog-so great and yes I have to agree Mag-you're lookin good. So fantastic about the book deal-I see some book parties in our futures. Miss you all-do some snorkling for me.ReplyDelete
can't say we helped at all, but this facebook group was certainly rooting for John:ReplyDelete
People who want to read John Sayles' "Some Time in the Sun"
- AnonymousMay 31, 2011 at 8:22 AM
Excellent novel I've gotten excellent experiences with it, besides I don't know if that's truth so I've heard that novel's writer used to use Viagra Online products to inspire and catching better ideas.ReplyDelete


text:
Classic Rock Instrumental Solos
By Various
To play the media you will need to update yourFlash plugin.
Trombone - Grade 2; Grade 2.5; Grade 3
Trombone. Arranged by Various. Instrumental Series; Play-Along. Pop Instrumental Solo Series. Rock. Book; CD. 24 pages. Alfred Music #00-37400. Published by Alfred Music (AP.37400).
Item Number: AP.37400
ISBN 9780739079973. English.
This book is part of an instrumental series arranged for Flute, Clarinet, Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, Trumpet, Horn in F, and Trombone. The arrangements are completely compatible with each other and can be played together or as solos. Each book contains a carefully edited part that is appropriate for the Level 2--3 player, as well as a fully orchestrated accompaniment CD. The CD includes a DEMO track of each song, which features a live instrumental performance, followed by a PLAY-ALONG track. Titles: 25 or 6 to 4 * Don't Stop Believin' * Gimmie Some Lovin' * Go Your Own Way * Hotel California * In the Midnight Hour * Open Arms * Roundabout * (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction * Spirit in the Sky * Stairway to Heaven * Sunshine of Your Love.
"As most musicians can attest, sometimes sheet music can oversimplify a familiar song, rendering it hard on the ears. However, Alfred Music has done a tremendous job arranging these pieces."


text:
Scott Dunlap's blog of trail running, ultrarunning, triathlon, and other life adventures. I enjoy the physical, emotional, and spiritual journey of outdoor events and the chance to meet cool people. This blog contains interviews, research, original fiction, new product ideas, and all things trail running.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Which Trail Has The Best Cell Phone Reception?
A classic cartoon from the folks at The New Yorker. Well, at least they are outside. ;-)
4 comments:
If you have AT&T, the answer is: none of them.ReplyDelete
I'm kidding actually; based on what I'd heard I was expecting awful coverage, and it has not been as bad as I feared. Even living in Colorado with its wide-open spaces.
I do bring my cell phone on long runs in the hills, but turn it off to save the battery. You never know.
The BEST trails never have cell reception. :)ReplyDelete
love the blog!
I really liked your blog! Very well done, I must say!
Keep up the good work!
Do visit mine too at
I've been reading your blog lately, and was pleasantly surprised to see this post linked from Runner's World, great comic!ReplyDelete
I LIVE for comments! Please add your thoughts, let me know you stopped by, etc., and be thoughtful of others. Always best if you sign your name, of course.


text:
In its earliest ages of civilization, Onderon was a world marked with savage jungles that were filled with dangerous creatures. To survive, the primitive human inhabitants of the planet protected themselves behind the walls of fortified settlements. Over time, these grew to become enormous walled cities, like the planet's capital, Iziz. In the modern era, during the time of the Clone Wars, the planet's monarch King Sanjay Rash allied Onderon to the Confederacy of Independent Systems. Many Onderonians, however, refused to recognize the legitimacy of Sanjay's rule -- they preferred the neutral stance championed by former monarch Ramsis Dendup, whom Rash ousted.
- Temperate,
- Jungles,
- Urban,
Related //
Saw Gerrera
A battered veteran of the Clone Wars as well as the ongoing rebellion against the Empire, Saw Gerrera leads a band of Rebel extremists. Saw has lost much in his decades of combat, but occasional flashes of the charismatic and caring man he once was shine through his calloused exterior. Gerrera is bunkered on the ancient world of Jedha, coordinating a prolonged insurgency against the Imperial occupation. Saw's ailing health has not withered his resolve to fight.
King Ramsis Dendup
As the galaxy began to split with the Separatist crisis that escalated into the Clone Wars, King Ramsis Dendup of Onderon looked on with disapproval and dread. The conflict would spill onto the borders of his home, and he would have to make a choice. But he saw no virtue in either the Republic or the Confederacy, recognizing the corruption that rotted within both governments. Dendup decided that the best course of action for his people would be to remain neutral in the conflict. For this, he was branded an indecisive coward and ousted from the throne by those who saw opportunity for change in power.
Steela Gerrera
A young native of Onderon, Steela and her brother Saw were members of the insurgency that opposed the rise of King Sanjay Rush, and Rush's alignment of the planet to the cause of the Separatists during the Clone Wars. Not as boisterous or as outspoken as her brother, Steela was nonetheless firmly dedicated to the cause of Onderonian independence. She was not one for impassioned speeches or political rhetoric. These were not her areas of expertise, and she felt far more comfortable peering through the macroscope of her blaster rifle. A crack shot, Steela racked up an impressive number of droid kills with precise headshots fired from the cover of canopy jungle.
King Sanjay Rash
King Ramsis Dendup refused to commit Onderon to the Clone Wars, thinking that neutrality would spare the planet from the violent conflict. Sanjay Rash knew better. To ensure Onderon's prosperity and strength in the shifting galaxy would require a strong alliance -- and that meant striking an accord with the Separatists. Through methods cloaked in intrigue, Rash assumed the crown of Onderon, deposing Dendup and branding him a powerless old crone. Rash then allowed the Separatists to establish a firm foothold, cementing his rule of the planet.
Lux Bonteri
The son of Separatist Senator Mina Bonteri, Lux was young, idealistic, and skeptical of the aims of the Republic and the Jedi Knights. His father was a fervent supporter of the Separatists, and was killed by clone troopers on Aargonar. Lux did not know what to make of Ahsoka Tano and her visit to Separatist space. After a failed peace overture begun by Mina extended to the Republic, Lux's mother died, assassinated on Count Dooku's orders. After making an ill-fated effort to avenge her by killing Dooku, Lux joined the anti-Separatist resistance on his homeworld of Onderon. After the rebels defeated the Separatists, Lux became Onderon's Republic Senator.
General Tandin
The leader of the royal guard and native military forces of Onderon, General Tandin was a proud patriot devoted to protecting the crown and the sanctity of the Onderonian people. When the planet sided with the Separatists during the Clone Wars, Tandin supported the new king, Sanjay Rash, despite his misgivings of offworld interlopers interfering in Onderonian affairs. The people of Onderon, though, began to reject Rash's rule, and an insurgency began targeting the battle droid forces stationed on the planet. Tandin had difficulty waging war against his own people, and cared little for the military support and tactical advice offered by the emotionless droids sent by the Confederacy to reinforce his defenses.
Okalin, advisor to the throne of Onderon, carefully monitored the unrest on the divided planet. With a network of contacts spread throughout the walled city of Iziz, Okalin was able to stay abreast of the shifting tides of fears and sympathy that gripped the Onderonian citizens during the Clone Wars. Okalin warned King Sanjay Rash of terrorist strikes that threatened his life, but the even-tempered advisor was careful not to provoke the ire of the king or his war leaders.
Onderon Rebels
During the Clone Wars, the Galactic Republic had little recourse with worlds that willingly sided with the Separatist Alliance -- the rules of engagement enforced by the Senate and the Jedi Order contained the battlefield to contested worlds. But what of planets where the Separatist banner did not garner unanimous support among its populace? When an insurgency on Onderon refused to recognize the legitimacy of its monarch and began a rebellion to oust both the king and the Separatist influence on the planet, Anakin Skywalker saw an opportunity: If the Jedi could train and equip the rebels on Onderon, these freedom-fighters would keep the Separatists occupied during the Clone Wars.
General Kalani
Early in the Clone Wars, the Separatist droid army was often led into war by analytically minded tactical droids. Before long, the Republic was able to outmaneuver the tactical droids by exploiting their reliance on precise calculation and lack of imagination when dealing with the unexpected. Furthermore, the droids were spindly mechanics whose heads could be yanked off and scoured for vital combat data. Super tactical droids, like General Kalani, were an improvement over the standard tactical droid. Kalani's advanced processors and robust frame made him a threat to be reckoned with.
Droid Gunship
Debuting late in the Clone Wars was this powerful automated predator, a heavily armed and ray-shielded air support unit capable of wiping out infantry and armor units in relentless barrages of explosive ordnance. The underside of the gunship's flat fuselage carries two clusters of missile pods, and can be fitted with droid deployment racks for insertion and extraction into the heaviest combat zones.
Dalgos are sure-footed, reptilian quadrupeds capable of long-distance running, swift sprints, and the pulling and carrying of cargo. The long-snouted creature has a heat-radiating crest that runs its length, terminating in a wide, blade-like tail. Three large nostrils top the forward crest, blasting air from the creature's powerful lungs. A dalgo has sharp teeth, including two lower tusks that jut from its jaw. Inside its mouth is a forked tongue that helps in sniffing out signs of dangers wafting in the thick jungle air.
Rupings are graceful, powerfully built reptavians native to the jungles of Onderon. These lean, well-muscled creatures have immense leathery wings that span the length of their rangy arms. Quadrocular vision and sensitive ears make a ruping keenly aware of its surroundings. Jungle-dwelling Onderonians have domesticated the rupings as beasts of transport. Historically, these people have been outcasts from the walled civilization centers of Onderon, and rupings are essential for transport and escape from the dangers of the dense jungle underbrush. Rupings nest in flocks atop the highlands of the Onderon wilderness.