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By ,
Published January 13, 2015
David Hecker wasn't sure what to expect when he showed up at the Capitol earlier this year for a meeting with Rick Snyder, the new Republican governor he had worked to defeat in the 2010 election.
But what he found surprised him: Snyder in an open-necked shirt, ready to talk in detail about a proposal that Hecker's American Federation of Teachers Michigan group had made about teacher tenure and evaluations.
Hecker said it was clear Snyder had analyzed the lengthy email he'd sent on the subject. An hour later, "We walked out saying, 'Well, you know, we're going to be able to have a dialogue with this administration,'" the union president said.
Hecker and other union leaders aren't necessarily finding the dialogue leads to results they want. Last week, the Legislature passed Snyder's plan to cut state funding for public schools by 2 percent and universities by 15 percent over the AFT's vociferous opposition.
But it does seem to be affecting the larger budget struggle in Michigan, which is unfolding without the massive, nationally televised protests or legislative boycotts that have occurred in other capitals with new Republican leadership and fiscal problems.
For Snyder, a former Gateway computer executive who began his business career as an accountant, a preference for long, technical discussions, meetings with the other side and moving deliberately has given a different face to the Republican juggernaut created by last fall's midterm election.
"This is not Wisconsin," Snyder told hundreds of Michigan Building and Construction Trades Council union members, referring to the furious confrontations earlier this year over Republican Gov. Scott Walker's conservative proposals for state budget cuts.
Since winning election last November, Snyder has met with leaders from more than 15 unions, including the Michigan Education Association, United Auto Workers, the Carpenters' union and the Michigan AFL-CIO, according to Snyder communications director Geralyn Lasher. There have been many other meetings with his staff. The talk is low-key even if the actions aren't.
With a state unemployment rate over 10 percent and inflation-adjusted general fund revenues at 1960s levels, Snyder has pushed to sharply cut Michigan's government costs and overhaul the tax structure to attract business to the state. He has had the advantage of a GOP-controlled Senate and House and public alarm about the battered economy.
But his proposals have come as a jolt to a state with a strong labor tradition. Snyder pushed the Legislature to give special "financial managers" new powers to cancel union contracts and cut costs in financially troubled cities and school districts. No other Republican governor has attempted such a tactic.
He's also asked state workers for $145 million in concessions and cut hundreds of millions of dollars in spending on public schools, universities and local governments. Those actions will lead to layoffs, pay cuts and health insurance premium increases by local authorities. Detroit Mayor Dave Bing, for instance, has demanded the city's 48 unions agree to a 20 percent reduction in health care costs.
In an overture to business, Snyder on Wednesday signed a sweeping tax proposal that ultimately will cut business taxes by $1.7 billion.
The measures rival what Walker and new Republican Gov. John Kasich of Ohio have attempted in their states with more rhetorical flourish and forceful methods. Those governors have run into legislative obstacles — and in Walker's case, a lawsuit and recall efforts. An attempt to recall Snyder is under way but considered unlikely to get on the November ballot since more than 800,000 signatures must be collected.
Michigan union leaders and Democrats stress they understand what Snyder is doing.
He's "using the national playbook," said Senate Democratic Leader Gretchen Whitmer. "Walker rams through the front door and Governor Snyder's sneaking in the back door when you're talking about collective bargaining and really disadvantaging working people in our state."
Hundreds of Ford Motor Co. workers booed Snyder's appearance at a Detroit-area assembly plant in March. At a Capitol rally that drew close to 5,000 last month, Herb Sanders of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Workers declared that Snyder's vision "is not the kind of Michigan we want to live in."
The situation is not explosive, though, in part because Snyder has given ground sometimes and kept talking with the opposition. In Wisconsin, Walker has had no direct communication with union officials. When Michigan's revenue projections came in higher than expected this month, Snyder agreed to put more than $300 million back into public schools, lessening the cuts. The final deal was worked out in a series of meetings at the Capitol two weeks ago, with Snyder periodically calling up spreadsheets on his iPad to crunch numbers.
He also agreed earlier to exempt older retirees from paying income tax on the pensions that hundreds of thousands of union workers hold.
The governor shows no sign of changing direction. In the coming months, he says he's determined to toughen tenure standards for teachers, a conservative priority that threatens education unions, and restrict state-subsidized job training to fields that need workers, a sensitive issue for labor.
A self-described "nerd," he insists people are getting used to his approach. At a recent ceremony unveiling the official portrait of his predecessor, Jennifer Granholm, he joked that in the one-block walk from his office to the Capitol, "I actually made the trip without seeing a sign."


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The Micasaverde & Vera community forums have moved Click here to visit the new Vera Control community forum
Or be on the safe side and always replace them at 25%.
if someone have good experience with this
Quote from: Piwtorak on November 06, 2013, 07:58:41 amif someone have good experience with thisits not exactly well documented feature, i personally do "manage the neighbours manually" which worked quite good so far.
.... When you removed neighbors from the list, you basically told Vera and the other devices that the switch could not see those(any) neighbors, so Vera will not try to create routes through the switch ....

subset: commoncrawl


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If there was something you could do to make your life easier, you would probably do it, right? That's the position I've found myself in frequently this past year, and I'm frustrated that I haven't made it a priority—to perform those tasks that will simplify my life, save me time, and protect my investments.
Now that the New Year is in full swing, I am resolving to accomplish a lot of things, three of which are automotive-related. First, I'm going to get those vehicle projects done that have not only been on the list for way too long, but are complicating my life.
The short list? Headlight restoration on the 1999 Honda Odyssey. I replaced the bulbs recently because they both blew out, but I'm not getting the full benefit of brighter bulbs because the lens covers are so cloudy. The fix for that is a fairly inexpensive headlight restoration kit. It'll make my life easier, because I'll be able to see further in the dark and my vehicle will look better in the daylight, too.
I'm also going to have new wiper blades installed. The new blades are way overdue and because of that, I can barely see when it rains or snows. Luckily I have Rain-X helping to compensate for my poor wipers.
Next, I'm going to keep better track of my vehicle manufacturer's recommended car maintenance schedule, thereby better protecting my investment. I need to commit to a car maintenance checklist so I know exactly what my vehicles need and when they need it. Right now, I know off the top of my head that my 1999 Honda Odyssey needs a change of coolant, oil, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, a new timing belt, new tires, and some other TLC that I'm sure I'm forgetting, in order to keep it running past the 200,000-mile mark it just hit. To help me accomplish the resolution listed above, I'm going to get some help in developing that car maintenance schedule.
The Advance Auto Parts site has a decent car maintenance schedule as well as a car maintenance checklist that I'm going to take advantage of this year since I've already proven previously that I can't, or won't track this without some help. This year, taking better care of my vehicles translates into taking better care of me—from both a safety and a sanity perspective—and I resolve to get it done. Happy 2013!
Editor's note: If you've resolved to have more clarity in 2013, you'll find the parts and free services you'll need to get the job done right at Advance Auto Parts. Buy online, pick up in store.


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I got a question. In the past, I always listen to a song of Jamiroquai but I can't remember the title. This is anoying me.
I just remember that the last sentence was something with: "I make my own mixtape for you"
This is not the right sentence, but it was something with mixtape.
Do anybody know which song i mean? It will really help me!


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Media releases
Youth Alpine Interrail: On track for 2020
With CIPRA's «Youth Alpine Interrail» project, 100 young people travelled environmentally friendly through the Alps this summer. On 27 September 2019, the successful conclusion was celebrated in Bern/CH, where the travellers also worked together to develop demands for sustainable transport.
For visitors and for locals
What is a good life in the Alps? How can tourism be reshaped? CIPRA International has dedicated its 2018 Annual Report to both local residents and visitors to the Alps and, under the motto "Visitors and residents", has illustrated how tourism and quality of life can be compatible.
Youth participation is a must, not a nice extra
More youth participation in the Alps! This appeal went to the politicians of the Alpine countries at the conference on the GaYA project in Chambéry/F. The extent to which the topic moves was shown by the participation of numerous young people and representatives from politics and society throughout the Alps.
Recognising the importance of Alpine ecosystems
While one group has highlighted ecosystem performances, another has tested participatory approaches to river management: a total of 19 partners from six Alpine countries have for three years now been co-operating on two projects. They presented their findings on 21 and 22 November 2018 in Innsbruck, Austria.
Young ideas for the Alps!
How can young people actively shape the future of the Alps? The GaYA Conference on 30 November 2018 in Chambéry/F focuses on youth participation and governance.
Nature providing services in the Alps
Whether mountain forests that protect us from avalanches and clean our air, or rivers and alpine pastures that provide us drinking water, energy or nourishment: in the AlpES Project ten partner organisations from six alpine countries have evaluated and documented ecosystem services for the past three years. They will present their results on 21st and 22nd November 2018 at a Final Event in Innsbruck/A. Press representatives are kindly invited to attend.
Involving youth: But how?
Once politicians agree on the importance of young people for the future of the Alps and the need for their inclusion in decision-making processes, the question arises: How? How do we engage them in a productive and effective way? To answer these questions, GaYA's Youth Participation Toolbox was created by eight partners from five Alpine countries.
Alpine Convention reaffirms opposition to new Alpine motorways
In recent years there have been several attempts by regions to reintroduce the Alemagna motorway from Venice to Munich onto the European agenda. At the suggestion of CIPRA, on 13 and 14 June the Permanent Committee of the Alpine Convention unanimously expressed its opposition to this new Alpine motorway.
Kaspar Schuler: new strength for the Alps
Kaspar Schuler is taking over the leadership of CIPRA International in Schaan, Liechtenstein. A native of Switzerland, he brings with him many years of experience and numerous skills in the environmental field, most recently as interim director of Greenpeace Switzerland.
Partnership of Alpine communities for climate protection
CIPRA International presented the idea of a Climate Partnership of Alpine Communities at the opening day of the 2017 World Climate Summit in Bonn, Germany. In partnership with the "Alliance in the Alps" and "Alpine Town of the Year" networks, as well as the support of the German Federal Ministry of the Environment, CIPRA International wants to actively strengthen the role of towns and cities in the Alpine region in increasing climate protection in the coming years.


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Just when you thought spring training was over, and you no longer needed to worry about injuries before the regular season…BOOM! In a game that meant nothing against the Astros Darwin Barney made a diving attempt at a meaningless foul ball, and did his best Bill Mueller impersonation and slid into a meaningless wall, and sliced open his knee. It was bad enough to require five stitches and is now out of the Cubs opening day lineup and depending on a doctor's visit today, could be out even longer and require a DL visit. Barney's absence isn't a huge hit to the lineup, but it is a ginormous hit to the defensive aspect of the Cubs game, as the defending gold glover will have to wait awhile to begin his defense (get it?), seems rather ridiculous that he was hurt when he probably shouldn't have been playing, but hindsight is 20/20 I guess. Well, that was worth it, eh Dale? Brent Lillibridge will now get the start at second base on Monday in Pittsburgh, and will be in the same starting infield as Luis Valbuena.. sigh, here we go!
Thanks for reading,
– George


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Nursing guidelines target obesity, asthma, post-partum depression, diabetes
TORONTO, May 31, 2005 – While serious health problems like childhood obesity, asthma, postpartum depression and diabetes plague many Ontario families and periodically capture media attention, every day registered nurses across the country – and the globe – are using guidelines developed by Ontario RNs to ensure that people suffering from those, and other, conditions receive the best and safest nursing care possible, based on the latest available evidence.
On June 2 & 3, the Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO) will showcase and share some of that knowledge during its 3rd biennial international conference, Best Practice Guidelines: The Key to Knowledge Practice Synergy. Hosted by RNAO's Centre for Professional Nursing Excellence, the conference has drawn the interest of hundreds of nurses from across Canada, the United States and Scotland. RNAO is also hosting a forum for a world-wide consortium called NICEBIRG, the Nursing International Collaboration for Evidence Based Implementation and Research of Guidelines.
"This week's events bring together local and international experts who are making health care and nursing care better - and safer - for people at different stages of their lives. RNAO is pleased to be able to share with the world what Ontario RNs have developed to raise the bar on nursing care and to help keep Ontarians healthy," said RNAO executive director Doris Grinspun.
The Nursing Best Practice Guidelines Project is led by RNAO and funded by the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. Since its inception in 1999, hundreds of nurses have produced 27 NBPGs, ranging from asthma control for children to falls prevention among seniors. Many health-care settings have implemented the guidelines both inside and outside Ontario. Guidelines on postpartum depression, childhood obesity, foot care for diabetics and women abuse have just been released, and three more will be developed in 2005-06. The project, the largest of its kind in Canada, is gaining international attention – the World Health Organization's Web site recently highlighted RNAO's smoking cessation BPG.
"Whether it's smoking cessation guidelines or sharing the latest knowledge about how to care for the particular needs of seniors, women at risk of abuse or children, this conference shows the creative ways these guidelines are being used to promote better health outcomes. Nurses can learn from their colleagues and help their patients or clients by incorporating those lessons into their own practice," says NBPG project director Tazim Virani.
Sherri Forte is a staff nurse at University Health Network's Toronto General Hospital. She uses the guidelines to teach people newly diagnosed with diabetes and cardiovascular patients with diabetes how to control their conditions to improve their long-term health and prevent complications. "We want to make sure patients and their families are confident in managing their diabetes at home, and that they know what a healthy meal plan is and can recognize the symptoms of high and low blood sugar," Forte says.
Using the guidelines to teach patients how to manage and prevent health problems is one focus of the 3rd Biennial International Conference on Best Practice Guidelines.
Conference highlights include:
- How Trillium Health Centre in Mississauga is using an education kiosk called the Learning Rocket to help children learn about their asthma.
- A contest encouraging teenagers in Simcoe County to quit smoking or stay smoke free.
- What University Health Network in Toronto is doing to prevent falls in the elderly.
- What nurses at Barrie's Royal Victoria Hospital are doing to address delirium, dementia and depression in seniors without using restraints.
- A presentation from Dr. Dave Davis, member of the faculty of medicine at the University of Toronto, who will discuss implementing guidelines.
The Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO) is the professional association representing registered nurses wherever they practise in Ontario. Since 1925, RNAO has lobbied for healthy public policy, promoted excellence in nursing practice, increased nurses' contribution to shaping the health-care system, and influenced decisions that affect nurses and the public they serve.
For more information, please contact:
Marion Zych, Director of Communications, RNAO
Phone: 416-408-5605
Toll free: 1-800-268-7199 ext.209
Cell: 647-406-5605


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Exelon is halting efforts to gain initial federal regulatory approvals for new nuclear construction in Victoria County, Texas, the company announced today.
VICTORIA, Texas - Exelon is halting efforts to gain initial federal regulatory approvals for new nuclear construction in Victoria County, Texas, the company announced today.
The company has notified the Nuclear Regulatory Commission that it will withdraw its Early Site Permit application for an 11,500-acre tract southeast of Victoria. The action is in response to low natural gas prices and economic and market conditions that have made construction of new merchant nuclear power plants in competitive markets uneconomical now and for the foreseeable future.
"While we have decided to withdraw our application for this particular project, Exelon's presence in Texas is growing and will continue to grow," said Charles G. Pardee, chief operating officer of Exelon Generation, the nation's largest nuclear operator. "We like doing business in Texas. It has a welcoming environment for business and industry, the competitive market is strong and the people are great. Exelon is in Texas for the long haul."
Following Exelon's successful merger with Constellation Energy, the company operates more than 4,000 megawatts of natural gas and wind generation capacity in Texas. It also sells electricity to more than 144,000 residential accounts through its StarTex brand, and to nearly 35,000 commercial customers through Constellation New Energy. Exelon and its subsidiaries have offices in Austin, Dallas and Houston.
Exelon originally submitted an application for a combined construction and operating license for the Victoria County site in 2008, but never made a decision to build a nuclear plant there. In 2010 the company applied for an Early Site Permit, a change in licensing strategy that allowed Exelon to continue with some aspects of site evaluation and regulatory approvals while deferring a construction decision for up to 20 years. Today's withdrawal brings an end to all project activity.
"Victoria County was Exelon's location of choice because of its strong community support. People made us feel at home in their community from the very first day, and they still do," said Marilyn Kray, vice president of Nuclear Project Development for Exelon Generation. "This is all about the economics of the project, which are driven by commodity and financial markets. I cannot stress enough how important it was to us to have partnered with Victoria, and we look forward to other Texas partnerships in the future."


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Items where Person is "Du Plessis, Johan"
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Number of items: 1.
Chapelle, Audrey and Yaacob, Mohd H. and Pasquet, Isabelle and Presmanes, Lionel and Barnabé, Antoine and Tailhades, Philippe and Du Plessis, Johan and Kalantar-zadeh, Kourosh. Structural and gas-sensing properties of CuO–CuxFe3−xO4 nanostructured thin films. (2010) Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, 153 (1). 117-124. ISSN 0925-4005


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My Gym - My Gym Live! Super Kids! 4-8 years
My Gym Live From Your Home!
Wednesday 17:00–17:30
[email protected]
4 years - 10 years
Fixed course dates
Together, we will all get through this period of uncertainty. Yes, we are temporarily closed. But guess what? We are NOT ready to get our "bye-bye hands" out just yet! Instead, get your kids ready to see their teachers on My Gym LIVE! My Gym LIVE brings our amazing curriculum to your living room, backyard, or home dojo. These are NOT prerecorded videos; this is LIVE interactive instruction from your favorite My Gym teachers… and we can't wait to see you!
- Single Session
- £5.00
- My Gym Live (3 week block)
- £12.00
Spotted an error? Please help improve this listing.


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Houston knew a win in their final game against LA would save them the hassle of playing a wild card game.
Adam Moffat obviously wasn't keen to take that route and did something about it, emphatically rifling in from 40 yards into the top right corner to win the AT&T Goal of the Week for Week 32. The strike left Donovan Ricketts rooted to the spot as the Scotsman's effort in the 26th minute set the Dynamo on their way to a 3-1 win, sealing second place in the Eastern Conference in the process.
The long-range blast in the season finale received 40 percent of votes in the final Goal of the Week competition. The midseason signing from Portland had competition from Seattle's Sammy Ochoa and RSL's Álvaro Saborío whose strike earned 22 percent and 23 percent of the votes respectively. Houston have a knack of scoring spectacular goals, as this marked their second straight Goal of the Week — Danny Cruz won the honors in Week 31 for his hammer against Portland.
Moffat's goal was also his second Goal of the Week this season, winning it back in Week 11, also against the Timbers.
Houston boss Dominic Kinnear will be hoping his side's run of sensational strikes run into the postseason as Houston match up against the Philadelphia Union in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
1. Adam Moffat (HOU) 40%
2. Álvaro Saborío (RSL) 23%
3. Sammy Ochoa (SEA) 22%
4. Emilio Rentería (CLB) 12%
5. Simon Dawkins (SJ) 4%


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We received a MAGIC JINN interactive guessing game for review. We're spending hours each day at the swim and tennis club we joined- the kids are in lessons but not always at the same time. I like to have a bag of tricks, so to speak, with me, so that if there's down time, the kids have something kind of quiet to do so they can chill for a bit. I like the things in that bag of tricks to be light and portable, since I'm already lugging a huge cooler bag full of snacks, lunch and drinks to keep 3 busy kids fed and hydrated!! The Magic Jinn game is perfect all around- it's small, it's lightweight, and definitely something the kids can wind down and play to get a little bit of quiet in their busy day. ALL of the kids are loving this, and I am bound and determined that I will stump the Magic Jinn sooner or later.
My oldest did a video demo for Magic Jinn. Watch and see if she stumps him or not.
Jinn has a funny voice- it took me a few moments to get used to it, the kids just think it's funny how he sounds. He also exaggerates some sounds more than others which does sound funny to all of us! A press of his nose gets things started- and just so you know, if his nose is pressed while in the bag of tricks…or any other bag…he'll start chatting away whether you are playing or not….for a minute or so until he "realizes" you aren't there to play. Then he'll shut off.
Age: 6+; Players: 1+; Available: Summer 2013; Approximate Retail Price: $19.99
Think of an animal and leave the rest up to MAGIC JINN! Be amazed as MAGIC JINN guesses your thoughts in this new interactive guessing game. Listen to a series of questions from MAGIC JINN to which you answer yes, no, I don't know, or maybe. You may think you can stump MAGIC JINN, but he will magically try to guess the animal you are thinking of with his questions! MAGIC JINN is also available in an additional category of Food and Drink. Each sold separately. (Requires 3 AAA batteries – not included)
One reader will win a Magic Jinn interactive guessing game toy of their own!


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In the next few days, Bob Bradley will announce the players traveling with him to take on South Africa in Cape Town's Green Point Stadium on Nov. 17 (2 p.m. ET, ESPN2, Galavisión).
The fixture presents serious logistical problems for those finding time on clubs in Europe, complicating the coach's decision-making process. Despite the difficulties, Bradley should be able to corral a solid group that can compete in a fixture that's more about goodwill than winning.
[inline_node:316419]Tim Howard -- Ideally, the Everton netminder would get some rest and give way to Brad Guzan, but who would be the Aston Villa 'keeper's backup?
Brad Guzan -- Brad Friedel's understudy shined against Colombia in October, but it's back to the bench once again.
Jonathan Bornstein -- One last opportunity for American fans to see Jonny B before he departs for Mexican side Tigres UANL.
[inline_node:319852]Tim Ream -- The central defender won't make the Eastern Conference final in his sublime rookie season. The good news is that he earns his first call to the national team as a result.
Oguchi Onyewu -- After a dust-up with Zlatan Ibrahimovic, getting out of Milan for a minute might do Gooch some good.
Clarence Goodson -- "Dear Mr. Goodson: Until further notice, the starting center-back spot is yours. Regards, Bob."
Eric Lichaj -- Let's see what Guzan's teammate can do during a full 90 on the Cape Town field.
Jonathan Spector -- Perhaps a run-around against Bafana Bafana will help the fullback find his groove.
Alejandro Bedoya -- Fly up and down the wing, young man, fly.
Benny Feilhaber -- The creative midfielder should get another chance to start. Will he finally make an impact?
[inline_node:315580]Robbie Rogers -- Another player who benefits from his MLS squad's premature departure from the playoffs.
Sacha Kljestan -- Bradley could leave Kljestan to continue maturing at Anderlecht, but he may choose to see what the improving second-stringer can do when put in charge of the offense.
Kyle Beckerman -- The midfielder doesn't play the prettiest soccer, but he can be effective in this match.
DaMarcus Beasley -- Can a strong showing help Beasley find a team during the January transfer window?
Geoff Cameron -- Perhaps a stretch as a January appearance makes more sense, but the midfield options are limited if Bradley wants to avoid calling the A-team.
[inline_node:314743]Robbie Findley -- RSL's loss is Findley's gain.
Jozy Altidore -- While the striker is getting time at Villarreal, a match with the Stars and Stripes won't hurt.
Eddie Johnson -- More by default than anything else.
Noah Davis covers the United States national team for MLSsoccer.com. Follow him on Twitter at @noahedavis.
Think you know the game? Test your powers of prediction with MLSsoccer.com's new fantasy game, Pro Soccer Picks. Play NOW!


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CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – A cancer diagnosis doesn't automatically get people to stop smoking, but continuing to smoke shortens patients' survival, increases their risk for a second tumor, and is associated with worse outcomes after cancer surgery.
Yet, in a study published in the journal Nicotine & Tobacco Research, UNC researchers found that one in five National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Cancer Centers offer no tobacco use treatment services to their patients, while less than half report a clear commitment from leadership to provide those services. "People might rightfully assume that top-notch tobacco use treatment programs exist at these centers, but they aren't as common or comprehensive as most people might imagine," says Adam Goldstein, MD, MPH, the study's lead author.
"This is partially due to the specialization of medicine. Cancer doctors as specialists have focused on trying to cure the cancer, but they also must focus on cures for the disease – addiction – that causes many cancers. The NCI-designated Cancer Centers are leaders in the field and should be the best and first place to treat the tobacco addictions that lead to cancer by offering evidence-based tobacco use treatment to every cancer patient who is still smoking."
Goldstein and his colleagues surveyed NCI-designated Cancer Center directors and oncologists regarding evidence-based measures for tobacco use treatment and administrative support of the programs. The team identified several best practices including locating programs within the cancer center, implementing new quality improvement measures and opportunities for tobacco use treatment services, providing institutional funding for personnel and space, and creating a mechanism that allows reimbursement for tobacco use treatment services.
They also recommend that the NCI build on its 2009 conference that presented model programs in tobacco use treatment, by developing formal recommendations to centers on providing tobacco use treatment as part of cancer care. "We know that those who have the most difficult time becoming tobacco-free most often have fewer resources for dealing with their cancer and their addiction," says Carol Ripley-Moffitt, MDiv, CTTS, one of the study's authors.
"There are unique challenges to offering tobacco addiction treatment to cancer patients, including lack of training among oncologists on tobacco use treatment, how to manage smoking cessation drugs in patients with complex treatment regimens, and physical and psychological issues patients face in cancer diagnosis and treatment," says Dr. Goldstein. "NCI-designated centers can bring together expertise in cancer treatment and tobacco use treatment to ultimately benefit both quality of care and patient outcomes."
Dr. Goldstein is a professor in the department of family medicine and a member of UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center. Other members of the research team include Carol Ripley-Moffitt, MDiv, CTTS, Donald Pathman, MD, MPH, and Katharine Patsakham, MPH, CTTS.
The research was funded by UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center's Population Sciences Research Award.
Media contact: Ellen de Graffenreid, 919-962-3405, [email protected]


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Does your Structured Cat 5 Cabling communications cabinet look like spaghetti and you dare not touch anything in case it stops working?
How can I make sense of the Network System?
Many companies are faced with the above dilemma and once you are in this position it becomes almost impossible to resolve networking issues easily and problems become time consuming and frustrating.
The answer is Structured Cabling.
Structured Cabling
This is where all cables are coded according to location, voice, data and other outlets.
What this means is that tracing problems becomes so much simpler.
This simplicity translates into fast solutions to network issues, more availability for the business and less costly solutions.
To speak to one of cabling specialists or for more information, get in touch


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LA Philharmonic violinist Robert Gupta gave this inspiring TED talk about his relationship with Nathaniel Ayers. Ayers was the inspiration for the movie The Soloist.. My favorite line is "music is sanity." Listen past the initial applause after the talk and you'll hear him play the violin.
Jack Fishman
Email: email@example.com
For more blogs by Jack Fishman visit: www.sasymphony.org/blog


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Republican lawmakers went on the offensive against Gov. Deval Patrick's tax proposals Thursday, saying Massachusetts residents are being presented with the Democrats' "false choices" of increased taxes and tolls vs. an economic crisis of crumbling highways and limited state services.
Republican lawmakers went on the offensive against Gov. Deval Patrick's tax proposals Thursday, saying Massachusetts residents are being presented with the Democrats' "false choices" of increased taxes and tolls vs. an economic crisis of crumbling highways and limited state services.
"We are tired of this argument being painted as if increasing the gas tax and raising the tolls are our only solutions," said Rep. Karyn Polito, R-Shrewsbury, following a State House press conference. "When the only choices presented amount to asking for more money from our citizens, there is no choice at all."
Republicans expressed disappointment following a Tuesday vote by the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority board for a $100 million toll hike, saying that Democratic leadership seemed to be interested more in revenue than reform.
Minority party leaders also noted a recent string of taxes on fuel, hotel and meals, and candy, soda and alcohol taxes as a way of avoiding necessary reforms and reducing government spending during a time of financial crisis.
"Reform seems to get put to the back burner, if it makes the stove at all," said House Minority Leader Bradley Jones, R-Reading, citing the cigarette tax and licensing fees.
Republican lawmakers also criticized the governor for taking two years to submit a transportation bill.
Rep. George Peterson, R-Westborough, noted that if reform legislation had been passed during the Romney administration nearly five years ago, the Turnpike would have avoided the current threat of financial ruin.
"If that had happened, we would not be looking at higher tolls today," said Peterson.
Patrick submitted his transportation reform bill on Tuesday, which includes a 19-cent increase on the state's 23.5-cent gasoline tax along with significant efficiency-driven reforms that the governor said would reduce the bureaucracy within the transportation department.
The criticisms by Republicans left a bitter taste for many Democrats.
"We're now dealing with 16 years of inaction by Republican governors," said freshman Rep. Kate Hogan, D-Bolton. "They did not take care of public buildings, universities, roads and bridges, and now they're criticizing a plan that has taken 16 months to develop."
MetroWest legislators have generally supported a gas tax increase over toll hikes.
The Turnpike Authority's board has given tentative approval to a plan to nearly double tolls for commuters coming into Boston from the western suburbs.
Patrick has said he would not support increases in both tolls and the gas tax. He said Wednesday he would veto legislation that did not involve "adequate" reform.
House Speaker Robert DeLeo, D-Winthrop, said he was hopeful that the Legislature would address the transportation issue next month, but many lawmakers are concerned they will not have enough time to pass legislation before the toll hikes go into effect.
Rep. David Linsky, D-Natick, said state government did not have sufficient revenue to wait for long.
"We should squeeze out every nickel and dime we have in the budget," said Linsky. "But at the end of the day, the state has $20 billion in unmet transportation and infrastructure needs, and there needs to be some revenue source to pay for it."
The Legislature has scheduled four regional hearings throughout the state, beginning next week, to discuss plans presented by Senate leadership and the governor for transportation reform and financing.
The MetroWest Daily News


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The Spain legend turned down the opportunity to make the move to the Blaugrana and Juventus, while stressing that Jose Mourinho did not play a role in his decision to leave
Real Madrid icon Raul has revealed he had the opportunity to join Barcelona on two occasions, but opted against a move to the Catalans as he did not want to join Madrid's arch-rivals.
The experienced attacker spent nearly his entire career at the Santiago Bernabeu side after signing for the club from Atletico and he has stressed that a move to the Camp Nou side was never a serious option for him due to his strong ties with Madrid.
"Barcelona twice showed an interest in signing me. I could never play for Barca, though, because I am a real Madridista," Raul told World Soccer.
"Madrid is my city. I was born and raised in Madrid. My brother, my sister, my friends, my family, they all live in Madrid."
The former Spain international then went on to stress that Barca were not the only team that tried to lure him away, as Juventus attempted to sign him more than once, too.
"Juventus made me a very interesting offer three times, but I didn't see myself living in Turin," said.
Raul eventually left Madrid for Schalke in the summer of 2010 after Jose Mourinho's arrival at the club, but he has stressed that the Portuguese coach did not play a role in his exit.
"My decision to leave had nothing to do with Mourinho. I had already decided that I wanted a new challenge before his arrival."
The 35-year-old made over 700 official appearances for Real Madrid between 1994 and 2010.


text:
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's Ministries
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If the Lord touches you to invite us for any Program, Please feel free to contact us by filling the invitation form bellow. Before you fill this form below to invite us, Please click on this link,
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Regular price
In first image the stone is wet so you can see the vein of Larimar and how rich it is inside. This is the actual piece you are purchasing it is a 1 ounce 3 gram raw natural piece of Larimar.
Larimar relieves stress,cools tempers and helps to calm fears, it also nurtures the physical and emotional bodies. It allows you to connect to the Divine Feminine and is also a powerful meditation stone.
It is very helpful in releasing emotional bonds and patterns that no longer serve you.
A stone of communication.
It will help you when speaking from the heart.
From the Dominica Republic


text:
Posted 8 years ago
(153 items)
Here is a 1983, 14th Annual Hall of Fame International Diving Meet & Pro Water Circus, which was held at the Swimming Hall of Fame Pool in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Two of USA Divers were there, Greg Louganis and Bruce Kimball. I got to watch these two Great Divers! After the exhibition I got them to sign my program. Bruce Kimball later (1989)was sentenced to 17-years for killing two people (DUI) in a vehicle crash. He was released in 1993 after serving 5-years.


text:
Commercial, Training
By Staff Writer | March 10, 2009
Send Feedback
Arizona is looking forward in an effort to reduce the shortage of helicopter pilots, mechanics and engineers, by hosting a Helicopter Day career fair this week at Quantum Helicopters near the Chandler Municipal Airport. Both Helicopter Foundation International and Helicopter Association International are co-sponsoring the fair. Besides looking for work, students can learn about scholarships, discuss career opportunities with on-site companies and FAA representatives and inspect different helicopters that will be flown in for the event. For related news


text:
Anarchy Skates
Anarchy skates have been involved in the aggressive skating market since it began all those years ago. The development team still works tirelessly with testers to keep one-step ahead of the ever-changing needs of aggressive riders. Today, Anarchy is well-established as the best mid-level aggressive skates on the market, and has built its reputation on the combination of the strength which protects new riders' ankles and the flex that appeals to the more experienced.
Anarchy Skates
Anarchy Panik 3 Aggressive Inline Skates£79.95(22)
Anarchy Revolution Aggressive Inline Skates£99.95(88)


text:
Aging in a Majority-Minority Nation
UCLA Center for Policy Research on Aging
Thursday, March 21, 2013 from 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM (PDT)
Event Details
When & Where
UCLA DeNeve Commons
351 Charles E Young Drive West
Los Angeles,
Thursday, March 21, 2013 from 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM (PDT)
Add to my calendar
UCLA Center for Policy Research on Aging
The mission of the UCLA Center for Policy Research on Aging is to provide policy analysis and examine demographic changes as they affect the aging of the United States and the world. The Center endeavors to consult with policy makers, provide expert advice and actively engage in agenda-setting and political issues that affect older persons. The well-established relationships between the Center and policy makers in Washington, D.C., and Sacramento enable a voice in contemporary debates and actions affecting public programs and benefits for older persons. The Center has a particular interest in the demographic and population concerns of Los Angeles, Southern California and California at large, and the region's relationship with the Pacific Basin, including Asia and Latin America.


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In the 2nd half of 2010, EUROSENSE has been awarded by the National Geographic Institute (NGI) with a project concerning the update of the topo-geographical data of the buildings on the Belgian territory. The project officially started at the end of 2010 and in the two next years, EUROSENSE executed the photogrammetric update of the building dataset for a total surface of 30.032 km² or almost entirely Belgium.
The project is a part of the update cycle established by the NGI in which their topo-geographical dataset (buildings, roads,...) will be updated every 3 years. Midscale resolution aerial imagery collected by the NGI (via separate tenders) is used for the photogrammetric mapping of the buildings.
During the photogrammetric update of the building dataset, EUROSENSE had to pay attention to the correct inheritance of the thematic information in the existing NGI dataset. Tools for the inheritance of attributes and for quality control were developed by the GIS-specialists at EUROSENSE and successfully used throughout the project.
For more news concerning the EUROSENSE group, click here.
The Netherlands
Remote Sensing Applications


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luciddb necesitaba un nuevo diseño de logotipo y lanzó un concurso de diseño en 99designs.
Un ganador ha sido elegido entre 120 diseños de 15 diseñadores freelance.
LucidDB is the first and only open-source RDBMS purpose-built entirely for data warehousing and business intelligence.
We are a community driven, open source database purpose built to do data exploration, visualization and number crunching. Our only purpose in life is to make collecting, transforming, and analyzing data quick and easy.
We are a mature project (6 yrs) that is VERY complete and well built.
Database and Report Developers. People wanting to join our open source community and build reporting, charting, and analytic solutions with LucidDB. Analysts, and report jockeys.
LucidDB, as is tradition with open source databases, is searching for an animal mascot logo. The winning design will:
- Capture the slightly rebellious / edgy nature of Open Source
- Display some characteristics of cleverness; our database is for data
exploration, visualization and number crunching.
- Use a black bear (not a panda, a standard black bear)
- Incorporate the name LucidDB
We'd be looking for a design that will provide three versions:
- LucidDB and bear mascot together
- LucidDB text by itself (matching font/style of combined design)
- Bear mascot by itself
I've attached our Brand Guide; if the mascot/logo can use the same COLORs/FONT as the attached brand guide (various blues, and greens) that would be ideal! Visual elements of the brand guide should be ignored --> Only the colors/fonts should be considered.
NOTE: Here are some links to other database images (MySQL == Dolphin, Postgres = Elephant,
Descubre cómo funciona un concurso de diseño u obtén más información sobre nuestros servicios de diseño de logo.


text:
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Jaume Güell Picazo Nurse Hematology Department
Julio Delgado González Hematologist Hematology Department
Published: 20 February 2018
Updated: 20 February 2018
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Monday, May 2
Lee Westwood's Reign in the Age of Parity
Commenting on the OWGR a week ago, John Feinstein wrote, "It is about blowing them up and starting over again." Feinstein didn't stop there. "The fact that Westwood—who has never won a major title—is ranked No. 1 would be reason alone to question the rankings."
PGATour.com correspondent Melanie Hauser asked why Westwood should have to apologize for his top ranking. "This one just makes you want to scream."
Golfweek's Jim McCabe pointed out that three of the 12 players who preceded Westwood to the top spot were majorless. They were Ian Woosnam, Fred Couples and David Duval. They all won majors after being ranked No. 1.
I sympathize with Westwood. First, with some near misses, he could have bagged a major by now. Few if any would question his worthiness if he possessed a Claret Jug or Green Jacket. Second, the OWGR points system is not his brainchild. His three European Tour victories and high finishes in the last 18 months have put him on top. That's not his fault, and the criticism is getting on his nerves.
I lean Feinstein's way, preferring a No. 1 who wins majors and is clearly the world's best golfer. But, as we know, winning majors and ascending to the top of a points system are two different things. Plus, dominance is out. Parity is in. These days, few players win multiple majors. World No. 1 could be a revolving door for months or years to come.
Meanwhile, Westwood won his second tournament in two weeks, the Ballantine's Championship in Seoul, South Korea. "It's always nice when you're world No. 1 to show everybody why you're in that position," he said.
Touche, Lee. But I'm still waiting for your first major. And setting aside the No. 1 debate, I believe you are, too.
−The Armchair Golfer
(Photo credit: Courtesy of Ballantine's)
3 comments:
- Mike said...
But it comes down to one thing: Rating the "best" golfer depends on what your definition of "best" is. The OWGR defines best as "most consistently good play over a period of 2 years." You could theoretically pass that test by placing Top 5 every week and beat out a guy who wins a couple of majors but misses most of his other cuts.
In my own RGWR, you don't even qualify unless you've won on the PGA or ET in the last 12 months, and my rankings define "best" as "most wins and Top 5s in the last year." Jhonattan Vegas is #87 in the OGWR, but he's #5 in my rankings on the strength of 3 worldwide wins. Different criteria are why we have different ranking systems.
I'm not so sure the "best" golfer in the world can ever be identified by a rating system that uses a single number. We can only say they are tops in a given category. And by that criteria, Westwood is #1 for now. Next week... well, we'll see. ;-)
- New York Synthetic Turf said...
Congrats on the achievement... I hope you have much success in your career...
- The Armchair Golfer said...
Good points, Mike.


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Soak the shiitake in 1 cup hot water for 20 minutes, remove stems, discard stems and slice the caps thin. Reserve the soaking water. Heat oil in a soup pot and sauté onions for 2 minutes. Add celery, potatoes, shiitake soaking water, Edensoy and sea salt. Cover and simmer over a low flame for 10 minutes. Blend ingredients in a food processor or blender until smooth and creamy. Place back in the pot. Add the button mushrooms, shiitake and pepper. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes without boiling. Stir in parsley and serve.
Per serving - 177 calories, 6 g fat (31% calories from fat), 8 g protein, 25 g carbohydrate, 4 g fiber, 0 mg cholesterol, 322 mg sodium


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My Jack & Jill
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Never any nasties. No fluoride, SLS, parabens, GMO ingredients, colours, sugar or artificial preservatives.
With natural ingredients our toothpaste is safe if swallowed and our products are always free from noxious chemicals and BPA.
Jack N' Jill are a cruelty free company. We use recycled and natural materials such as corn starch and bamboo instead of plastics.


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There are a number of reasons why you might want to consider using some type of drop ceiling tiles in Allerton, IA in your home. Although you might just think of boring white tiles that look a bit industrial and not at all homey, there are actually a lot of different types of these tiles that can be used for different purposes. drop ceiling tiles in Allerton, IA. These days there are even fancier options for those who want a more elegant look while still getting some of the benefits of using these tiles.
If you have super high ceilings and want to save money on your heating and cooling bills, you could benefit from insulated drop ceiling tiles in Allerton, IA. Basements that might flood or rooms on an upper floor that might get flooding from the roof might merit the use of drop waterproof ceiling tiles. If you want to keep the noise levels down, you can get acoustic drop tiles. As you can see, there are a number of specialized reasons why you might want these tiles. However, the main use for these is usually to cover up wiring and such things while still having easy access should you need to get to the wires for repairs. Some people use a combination of white drop tiles for the ceiling and white porcelain floor tiles. They say this makes for a very nice, clean look to any room in a house.
Drop ceiling 1x1 tiles are one option, but these tiles do come in larger and smaller sizes to suit your needs. You can get them made from a variety of materials, including metal, PVC, composite fiberboard, fiberglass, plaster, and gypsum. The metal tiles can be especially nice looking, as you can make it appear that you have a tin ceiling. Many of these types of tiles can be painted to the color of your choice as well, so you don't have to leave the ceiling white if you don't want to, you can get creative and do something different.
Drop ceiling tiles are commonly used in basements, since there is often wiring or ducts that need to be covered up in these areas when a basement is finished. It isn't a good idea to cover these up in a way that makes them inaccessible, so the answer is usually a drop ceiling as long as the original ceiling is high enough to allow for this.
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Being economical is a vital aspect of every Drop Ceiling Tiles work. On the other hand, you are looking for professional quality work, and Nearby Ceiling Tiles provides you with both equally. We are going to give you expert strategies to deal with any sort of price range, so you can relax knowing your own Drop Ceiling Tiles project won't break the bank.
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No ChristieCare for New Jersey.
Gov. Christie became the first second governor in the country today to veto a bill that would set up a state-run health care exchange. Such exchanges, which are intended to group consumers together to get deals and offer choices on health insurance, was a key provision of the Obamacare health reform. Ten states have so far enacted health care exchanges, a handful of legislatures have rejected the exchanges and many states (including Pennsylvania) have legislation pending.
Christie rejected the bill, passed by the Democratic Legislature, for several reasons, including the fact that the U.S. Supreme Court is set to rule on Obamacare in the coming weeks. "I am concerned that a hastily created exchange in New Jersey will impose unnecessary obligations upon the State's taxpayers," Christie said. "The very constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act is cloaked in uncertainty, as both the individual mandate to procure health insurance as well as the jurisdictional mandate to establish an exchange may not survive scrutiny by the Supreme Court."
In recent days the bill had become topic du jour among tea partying Christie watchers. If he didn't veto this bill, they argued, he would be responsible for creating "ChristieCare" in New Jersey.
"First, we had RomneyCare. Next, we had ObamaCare. If the governor does not veto the health care exchange bill on his desk we might as well call it ChristieCare in New Jersey," said Steve Lonegan, who had challenged Christie from the right in the 2009 gubernatorial primary, in a statement yesterday. Lonegan is the state director of Americans For Prosperity, which is affiliated with the conservative Koch brothers, who in the past have also expressed their support for Christie.
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In an article for the conservative Daily Caller, the director of health policy studies for the libertarian Cato Institute (where Christie was honored last week, incidentally), upped the ante further, writing yesterday: "...it's not an exaggeration to say that how New Jersey handles this legislation could determine whether Obamacare lives or dies. Obamacare can only work if states do the heavy lifting."
Assemblyman Herb Conaway (D., Burlington), a doctor and one of the sponsors of the bill, said this afternoon that "the governor has sent a clear message to the 1.3 million uninsured New Jerseyeans and the many others who are underinsured and struggle to afford their existing insurance: He doesn't care."
"Health care is not a commodity. No one should have to choose between their health and paying their bills...By vetoing this bill, Gov. Christie has failed New Jersey's uninsured residents, hurt New Jersey's chances of fully benefiting from federal health care reform and ignored the need to provide relief to hospitals for uncompensated care. I am disappointed that Gov. Christie put national political pressures ahead of the well-being of New Jersey. His actions have once again shown his complete disregard for our most vulnerable populations."
It should ne noted that if a state does not set up an exchange, the federal government will create one in that state.
Here's the full text of the governor's veto:
May 10, 2012
(Second Reprint)
To the General Assembly:
In March of 2010, after significant public debate and
discourse, a sharply divided Congress passed the Patient
Protection and Affordable Care Act, which was swiftly signed
into law. The "Affordable Care Act" represents a far-reaching
and expansive alteration of the nation's health care system.
Among its many provisions is the requirement that every person
across the country obtain and maintain basic health insurance.
To achieve this goal, the Affordable Care Act imposes sweeping
revisions to almost every facet of private health insurance and
public health infrastructure at the national, state, and local
levels. Critical to these changes is the directive that a
"health insurance exchange" must be established in each state.
While states have the option to craft their own version of these
exchanges, they must be consistent with the terms and
limitations imposed by the Affordable Care Act. If a state
fails to act to adopt these requirements, the federal government
will step into the state to establish programs it deems
acceptable, with the costs of these programs passed along to the
state's citizens.
Faced with these new federal laws, both the New Jersey
Legislature and my Administration have appropriately worked to
identify the most balanced, cost-effective, and medically sound
approach towards compliance. Assembly Bill No. 2171, passed by
the Legislature on March 15 of this year, seeks to address some
of these challenges by creating the "New Jersey Health Benefits
Exchange Act" to implement the core provision in the federal
Affordable Care Act: the requirement that every citizen in New
Jersey purchase and maintain health care coverage.
Prudently, throughout the process leading to the passage of
Assembly Bill No. 2171, the scope of the Affordable Care Act and
its central component – the "individual mandate" – were deeply
debated and thoughtfully examined by members of the Legislature,
health care experts, private insurers, academics, and the
citizens of New Jersey who will finance the bill's provisions.
Critically, the robust debate in our State echoed the national
conversation between policy makers and the people about the
effectiveness of many of the Affordable Care Act's provisions.
Then, on March 26 of this year, just ten days after the passage
of Assembly Bill No. 2171, the Supreme Court of the United
States began an unprecedented three days of hearings, where the
same arguments and questions concerning the lawfulness of both
the individual mandate, and the health care exchanges necessary
to deliver that coverage, were presented to the highest Court in
the land for resolution.
While I appreciate the Legislature's attempt to find steady
policy footing in these shifting legal sands, I am concerned
that a hastily created exchange in New Jersey will impose
unnecessary obligations upon the State's citizens. Indeed, the
very constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act is cloaked in
uncertainty, as both the individual mandate to procure health
insurance as well as the jurisdictional mandate to establish an
exchange may not survive scrutiny by the Supreme Court. Because
it is not known whether the Affordable Care Act will remain, in
whole or in part, it would be imprudent for New Jersey now to
create an exchange before these critical threshold issues are
decided with finality by the Court.
The uncertainty created by the litigation challenging the
Affordable Care Act is reflected in many aspects of Assembly
Bill No. 2171. For instance, the bill commits New Jersey to
establishing and operating a new Medicaid-like program for
individuals between 133% and 200% of the federal poverty level,
without any assurance of the level of federal funding that will
be available to support such a plan. Moreover, the bill's
mechanism for certifying health plan participation in the
exchange limits the pool of plan participants, which will likely
reduce options and increase costs. Likewise, the composition of
the proposed exchange's board of directors lacks representation
by all stakeholders and improvidently provides a salary of
$50,000 to each board member, further increasing implementation
expense. In all, with basic issues regarding the future of the
Affordable Care Act unresolved, it is impossible to know whether
this legislation best suits the interests and needs of all New
Jerseyans who will be required to finance these policy choices.
The fundamental uncertainties inherent in the Affordable
Care Act during the Supreme Court's deliberations counsel
against premature action, just as they should have slowed the
rush to pass this bill. Indeed, while many have publicly
questioned both the future of the Affordable Care Act and the
corresponding efficacy of the bill's provisions, the Legislature
nonetheless pushed this bill forward to my desk. I believe that
the better course of action for New Jersey is to continue to
monitor the ever-changing landscape surrounding the
implementation of the Affordable Care Act, and to refrain from
imposing its mandates upon our citizens until outstanding issues
are settled, and the required course of action is clear.
While I am unwilling to approve the establishment of a
statewide health insurance exchange at this time, I am mindful
that the requirements of the Affordable Care Act still stand
today and I intend to fully oversee New Jersey's compliance in a
responsible and cost-effective manner should its
constitutionality ultimately be upheld by the Supreme Court.
Despite the serious questions of legality that have followed the
Affordable Care Act since its signing, my Administration has
been studying sensible approaches towards ensuring New Jersey's
compliance with the federal law since the spring of 2010. At
that time, I directed the establishment of an interdepartmental
working group, which includes the Departments of Banking and
Insurance, Health and Senior Services, and Human Services to
meet regularly and to coordinate the State's efforts towards
implementing the Affordable Care Act. My Administration will
continue this work and stands ready to implement the Affordable
Care Act if its provisions are ultimately upheld.
For all these reasons, committing New Jersey to the
establishment of a statewide exchange under the provisions of
this bill is premature. Accordingly, pursuant to Article V,
Section I, Paragraph 14 of the New Jersey Constitution, I am
returning Assembly Bill No. 2171 (Second Reprint) without my
/s/Chris Christie
/s/Charles B. McKenna
Chief Counsel to the Governor


text:
SACRAMENTO - Attorneys for Stockton made their last-ditch arguments to a federal judge Wednesday at the end of a three-day trial, defending the City Council's decision last year to file for bankruptcy under the crush of debt.
SACRAMENTO - Attorneys for Stockton made their last-ditch arguments to a federal judge Wednesday at the end of a three-day trial, defending the City Council's decision last year to file for bankruptcy under the crush of debt.
U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Christopher Klein said that he'll be ready to make a ruling Monday morning.
He told attorneys he needs time to weigh the testimony from Stockton's top administrators and wade through a mountain of documents.
In addition to the city's case, he'll consider vigorous counterarguments from attorneys for Wall Street creditors, who accuse Stockton of failing to reduce the city's pension costs or engage them in meaningful negotiations before filing for bankruptcy.
Marc Levinson, the city's lead attorney, said turning to bankruptcy was a bad option but necessary.
"Stockton residents are not happy about being in Chapter 9," Levinson said. "Chapter 9 is the only way Stockton will be able to right its ship."
The city filed for bankruptcy protection June 28, citing years of mismanagement at City Hall, overly generous pay and benefits given to Stockton employees, and taking on millions of dollars in debt that it now cannot afford to pay back.
The city started to reveal these problems shortly after City Manager Bob Deis came on the job July 1, 2010, Levinson said.
Stockton is now seeking access to U.S. Bankruptcy Court, which the city's creditors say Stockton does not deserve. If it is allowed the court's protection, Stockton next would file a plan of adjustment, making some creditors take a loss on their investments.
Creditors contend that before filing, city officials went through the motions of negotiating with them but actually had the intention of taking their case to court, argued attorney Matthew Walsh, who represents National Public Finance Guarantee Corp.
Walsh also said Stockton didn't ask the California Public Employees' Retirement System to take a loss, and city officials - who are members of the retirement system - made this choice because they would lose future retirement benefits.
"This is a classic conflict of interest," Walsh said.
Norm Hile, a Stockton attorney, defended the city's decision not to engage CalPERS. The city has already cut its employees' pay and benefits, causing a mass exodus of police officers, among other employee groups, he said.
"If CalPERS were to be impaired, whatever that means, it is the employees who would suffer - not CalPERS," Hile said.
Yet CalPERS played almost no role in the trial, calling no witnesses and making no arguments. Attorney Michael Gearin of CalPERS arose from the sideline once Wednesday seeking to clarify a point, and the judge refused to hear him.
"As I sit here right now, I don't have a precise clue of the relationship between the city and CalPERS," the judge said. "We're going to deal with that on another day, if we get that far."
Klein acknowledged the eagerness of CalPERS to defend itself, saying it has been regularly represented in court with "its hair on fire."
The trial's final day began with Councilwoman Kathy Miller taking the witness stand, and Guy Neal, an attorney representing Assured Guaranty Corp., declared her a hostile witness, allowing him to ask leading questions.
The question-and-answer exchange between Miller and Neal was not hostile. Rather, it focused largely on a series of videos she published on YouTube on July 3 explaining the reasons Stockton voted to file for bankruptcy.
Miller said she made the videos in response to a flood of questions she had taken from local residents and because she was running for re-election.
Miller also explained why she used the phrase "half-baked" to describe Mayor Anthony Silva's half-cent tax proposal to hire more police. She proposes a comprehensive recovery plan for Stockton that considers libraries and after-school activities in addition to police services.
"I think there's more to a city's health than just police officers on the street," Miller said. "I think it's a bigger picture."
If Klein grants Stockton access to bankruptcy court, the city will next file a plan of adjustment, which restructures the city's debts to bondholders and formalizes officials' move to phase out payments to the health care coverage of retired city employees.
Convincing the judge to confirm the plan is expected to draw an even bigger fight from creditors over CalPERS.
Klein said that before giving his oral ruling on Stockton's eligibility, he needs some time after the attorneys' closing arguments to read thousands of pages of documents forming the foundation of this week's trial.
"To lift them all, I would probably have to be able to bench-press 300 pounds," he said. "Suffice it to say, I'm left with some weighty evidence."
Contact reporter Scott Smith at (209) 546-8296 or email@example.com. Visit his blog at www.recordnet.com/smithblog.


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Dr. Anthony Seminara says he has no trouble carrying on a conversation with his patients even when they're sporting a mouthful of dental supplies.
"Believe it or not, we understand pretty well what you're talking about," the 32-year-old dental surgeon says with a chuckle. "It's an acquired skill."
Understanding his patients is important to Seminara and his ability to speak English, French and Italian is a considerable advantage on that score. He has been practising full-time at Montreal's Dr. John Drummond & Dr. Anthony Seminara Family & Cosmetic Dentistry since 2010.
"If you can imagine, I see 10, 15 patients a day. So you talk to them, you get to know people over the years. To me that's the most interesting part of the job, the chemistry itself. ... You have to like people. The people coming in not only want to talk, but they want to be reassured that they'll be OK."
Dr. Paul Allison, dean of McGill University's faculty of dentistry, says empathy is key for successful dentists.
"You have to like the idea of being involved in health care, working with people in a difficult, vulnerable position and helping them," says Allison. "You have to have a strong interest in health, disease, the body and how the body works and interest in the person."
Seminara, a native of Montreal, graduated from McGill with a bachelor of science in bio-chemistry in 2006 and then completed an advanced general residency program at the University of North Carolina. He returned to Montreal and joined his current practice as a part-time associate in 2007.
Anyone hoping to become a dentist today will find it a challenge even to get into the classroom. McGill, for instance, turns aside nine of every 10 applicants.
"There's a very high demand to get a position," Allison says. The good news, he adds, is those who are accepted are all but assured of getting a job when they graduate.
"I know of very, very few dentists who would like to be working and are not. There might be some who might not working where they want to be. They might be working in one part of town and want to be working in a different part, but they're working."
Seminara says the demand will only increase as baby boomers retire in larger numbers.
"This opens up great potential for any new grads," Seminara says. "Also, with people living longer and in better health, and more people wanting to keep their teeth into old age as well as being comfortable enough financially to afford good dental care, I really feel the next few years grads have a great opportunity.
"Another interesting reason why becoming a dentist is great is that it's a very portable degree. With a Canadian dental degree, you can easily work anywhere in the world with only the addition of local licensing exams.
"I have friends all over the United States and internationally, as well as in Canada. Not many professionals are so lucky."
With a degree in hand, Seminara says, most new dentists will work as an associate with an established dentist for a number of years, both to advance their clinical and professional development and to set money aside for future ambitions. In time, they might partner with the senior dentist, buy the practice or use their savings to go out on their own. He says a "simple startup office" today could cost somewhere between $150,000 to $200,000 to set up, depending on local rents and staff costs.
Edmonton's Dr. Michael Lee, a 37-year veteran of the profession, was a doctoral student in physiology before turning to dentistry when the government began to take a sharp axe to university research funding. He has no regrets about his ultimate career choice. His advice to anyone thinking of entering the profession today is that they do so for the right reasons.
"For an individual with the right motivation and temperament, dentistry is an excellent profession," he says, "because it still pays well if one works hard and it provides real service to society. However, if monetary reward is the only incentive, then a lot of other occupations would be more suitable."


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Did you know that February is Library Lovers Month?
That means, we are celebrating our patrons – you! The theme for this month is "Patrons are the Heart of our Library."
Each week, we will offer something for our patrons.
During the week of February 11–16, we will forgive late fines and offer free replacement cards. Remember, you need to have your card with you when you come in to check out books or use the computer. Replacement cards are usually $2 each, so if you have lost your card, make sure to stop in this week to get a replacement for FREE.
If you would like to make your own Valentine, stop by on Thursday, February 7. We will have card making supplies available for you to use in the activity room.
Just a reminder: we have events going on continually for kids of all ages. Every Wednesday and Friday morning at 10 a.m., kids ages 2-5 gather for stories, songs and crafts.
Our STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) activity for February has been moved from February 13 to February 20 at 3:30 p.m. Come and learn with fun activities and experiments. This group is open for kids in grades third through fifth. This month, we will be building bridges.
Family movies continue on the first and third Saturday of every month. The next movie will be Frankenweenie at 2 p.m. on February 16.
On Tuesday, February 19 at 6:30 p.m., we will host a community program presented by Peter Sisneros from East Morgan County Hospital. Titled "Ask a Chef," this program is how to take favorite recipes and make them heart-healthy. There will be time following his presentation for questions and answers.
Kids Craft Club continues to meet on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 3:30 for Kindergarten through fifth grade. Join us February 27 for duct tape crafts.
We will have another computer class beginning on February 21 at 10 a.m. This class is for beginners. Space is limited, so if you are interested, please sign up at the front desk.
What's happening at the library…
Did you know that February is Library Lovers Month?


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Les designers du monde entier sont en train de soumettre des concepts créatifs de logodesign pour GGC Consulting - custom.
This contest is for a logo for our new upcoming juice line MANGO3! Please read full description for more details. Thank you.
mangosteen - acai - goji, Health - To the Power of 3
Desired Color Scheme:
all color schemes/suggestions welcome!
Desired Style:
please read description for details
Accepted File Formats:
eps, jpg, tiff, gif (winner to send original layered files)
Mango3 Logo Description:
We are looking for a logo for our exciting new juice product called Mango3 The 3 would go in the upper right corner of the logo, similar to the squared symbol.
Mangosteen Acai Goji
Health To the Power of 3
Liquid Dietary Supplement
Other Juice Companies we Like:
We want the logo to blow our competition away. Clean, Credible, Crisp, Unique, Viral, Well-Branded, and Stylish. Something that would be recognizable if seen in a magazine or on TV. All upper case, all lower case, what ever looks best to you. Youre the designer and know what looks best!
We want the logo to have the number 3 symbol in the upper right corner of the logo. Underneath the MANGO3 logo should be the terms Mangosteen Acai Goji then somewhere near the logo should be the tagline Health To the Power of 3
Another idea is to have pictures of all 3 of the fruits (you can find them online) with cool graphics surrounding them, similar to the FRS bottle. (please go to frsplus.com to view) Something futuristic would look great. Anybody ever played the game Wipeout Go to: http://www.wipeoutpure.com/ We love the futuristic look but are open to your ideas!
Winning Logo will be used on the website, in print and also on actual bottle, and will be the basis for our entire marketing campaign. Depending on the quality of the winning design we may want to contract the designer for our web design as well. So please keep this in mind if you have good web design skills. Thank you!
The winning design agrees to release all rights and will not use design anywhere else. Winning designer also agree to a non-compete agreement.
We reserve the right to end the auction early and award winner so get your entries in. We will most likely wait until the end of the auction.
Winner will be paid by PayPal.
Good luck everyone!
Website, Trademark or Brand Name: MANGO3
Desired Tagline: Mangosteen Acai - Goji
Desired Color Scheme: open to suggestions
Desired File Formats: eps, jpg, tiff, gif (winner to send original layered files)
Savoir comment fonctionne un concours de design ou en savoir plus sur nos services de design de logo.


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Corel Debuts CorelDraw Graphics Suite X7
Latest version of the company's flagship graphics software.
Corel has introduced CorelDraw Graphics Suite X7, the latest version of its flagship graphics suite. CorelDraw X7 features multi-core and native 64-bit support (allowing users to run multiple applications and process large files) as well as a redesigned and customizable user interface, plus enhanced fill capabilities.
Specific features include:
• Workspace selection: Users can choose between six pre-set workspaces – Lite, Default, Classic, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Advanced Page Layout, or Advanced Illustration.
• Customization: The workspace can be tailored to reflect workflow, by adding or removing dockers, tools, and other items.
• Fountain fills: Users have total control over fills and transparency – create elliptical and rectangular fountain fills, control transparency within the individual colors of a fountain fill, repeat fills within objects and adjust a fill's angle, etc.
• Font playground: Allows for browsing and experimenting with fonts.
• Multiple document interface: Users can work with and switch between numerous documents, across multiple monitors, in a tabbed view.
• Photo-editing tools in Photo-Paint: Images can be created with pressure-sensitive liquid tools (Smear, Attract and Twirl) and camera effects (Bokeh blur, Sepia Toning and Time Machine).
• Monitor support: The interface can be adapted for touchscreen capability, and it supports high-dpi monitors.
• QR code generator: Ability to create customized QR codes that feature colors, images, and text; also ensure the QR code is valid for all mobile devices.
• Built-in content exchange: An online repository of vector, bitmap, and fountain fills, integrated with Corel Connect, allows for collaboration with other users.
CorelDraw Graphics Suite X7 includes: CorelDraw X7; Photo-Paint X7 (image editing); PowerTrace X7 (bitmap-to-vector tracing); Connect X7 (for browsing digital content); Website Creator (website design); Capture (screen capture); PhotoZoom Pro 3 (export, enlarge digital images); and ConceptShare (collaboration tool). Also included are: 10,000 clip-art and digital images, 2000 high-resolution digital photos, 1000 OpenType fonts, 350 professionally designed templates, 2000 vehicle templates, 800 frames and patterns, training videos, and more.
Price: $499 for the full version, perpetual license ($199 for the upgrade); subscription price is $24.95/month ($198/year). A Premium Membership can be added to the perpetual license ($99/year), which provides early access to new features, exclusive content, and more.


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The Yellow Jacket, Yearbook of Howard Payne College, 1922
Description: Yearbook for Howard Payne College in Brownwood, Texas includes photos of and information about the college, student body, professors, and organizations.
Date: 1922
Creator: Howard Payne College (Brownwood, Tex.)
Item Type: Refine your search to only Yearbook
Partner: Howard Payne University Library


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Because of Liam Neeson's presence, some have described "Non-Stop" as "'Taken on a Plane," but a more apt description would be "Speed on a Red Eye," as in the underrated 2005 Wes Craven thriller "Red Eye." There is a ticking clock that (conveniently) resets several times, a villain hiding in plain sight, and post-9/11 paranoia by the truckload. The beats and twists may be familiar, but it's well executed, and director Jaume Collet-Serra wisely resists the urge to go turbo, as it were, resulting in a film that is not the action-packed thriller that its trailers suggest, and all the better because of it.
Bill Marks (Liam Neeson) is an air marshal boarding a plane leaving New York for London. A few hours into the flight, Bill receives a text on his secure server notifying him that a passenger on the plane intends to kill someone every 20 minutes until his demands are met (read: a wheelbarrow full of cash). Bill enlists flight attendant Nancy (Michelle Dockery) and seatmate Jen (Julianne Moore) to help him isolate potential suspects, but quickly has reasons to suspect that either of them might be in on the plot. While this is playing out on the plane, the media on the ground is running with the story that Bill is in fact the hijacker, and once the world hears of Bill's flaws (divorced, temper issues, drinking problem), he not only loses the trust of the public and gives the news networks a sexy (if completely backwards) narrative, he also loses the trust of people on the plane, the pilots, and the co-workers on the ground assigned to assist him. Worse, he still doesn't know who is taunting him or what their end game is.
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Posted in: Entertainment, Movie Reviews, Movies
Tags: Julianne Moore, Liam Neeson, Michelle Dockery, Non-Stop, Non-Stop review


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Simon Cowell Quotes
When people moan about being a celebrity, I think 'Oh please, sort yourself out - it's the greatest job in the world.'
I want to congratulate both of you. It wasn't quite so clear as we called it. In fact, David [Cook], I will take this opportunity to apologize because I think I was verging on disrespectful with you and I don't think you deserve that.
This is just the way the music business is. When you're performing in front of 25 to 30 million people and you're not making the effort to make your self into a star I don't think you're doing yourself any favors so that's why I said it.
If I'm gonna base it on who has done the best performances over the live shows, David Cook deserves to win.
It was a little bit like Chihuahua trying to be a tiger.Simon Cowell [following David Archuleta's attempt to sing a Chris Brown song]
I'd pack your suitcase.Simon Cowell [to Jason Castro, after the former sung "I Shot the Sheriff"]


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It's enough to drive a retirement planner crazy. Every day it seems the headlines blare some new public pension catastrophe. Detroit is the most recent example, but don't forget about all those California cities mulling or filing for bankruptcy. And there's Rhode Island and Illinois and … the list goes on and on.
How can retirees, prospective retirees or their advisors know just how much will be left of promised retirement benefits when politicians start pushing for cuts, and, for investors, which municipal bonds may be in trouble?
For starters, maybe the headlines don't tell the whole story. In fact, according to a survey released in October, the vast majority of public pension funds are in better shape than those that are in trouble.
"It's well known that a few cities, like Philadelphia, Chicago and New York, have serious pension funding problems," said Elizabeth Kellar, president and CEO of the Center for State and Local Government Excellence. "But across the country most cities are in good shape."
In fact, she said, while many have work to do to get their pension funds in good shape, 80% are doing just fine.
(Check out 20 Best & Worst States for Pension Funding on ThinkAdvisor.)
We decided to take a look at the municipalities whose pension funds eat up the most money (worst) and least money (best) as a percentage of tax revenues. Kellar's center recently released a study of what percentage of municipal tax revenues are needed to keep public pensions funds in good shape.
We used that list to highlight 21 cities. Why 21? Because the liabilities of some cities were the same and that added up to 11 in the Best category and 10 in the Worst category. So here are the 21 Best & Worst Cities for Pension Funding:
10. Portland, Ore.
% of Revenue: 13
Population: 550,000
Portland's pension funding problems are reflective of the state as a whole, which approved retirement benefits reforms expected to save $5 billion. Unions are fighting the changes in court, arguing they break a contract made with vested workers.
9. Saginaw, Mich.
% of Revenue: 13.8
Population: 56,000
Candidates for the city council mention unfunded pension liabilities as a major problem facing Saginaw. The situation in the area is bad enough that Saginaw County wants to issue bonds to cover about $64 million of its unfunded debts.
8. Stockton, Calif.
% of Revenue: 14.1
Population: 287,000
Stockton was the largest city to file for bankruptcy, in 2012, until Detroit followed suit this year. In October, Moody's lowered the city's credit rating from Ca to Caaa3.
7. Bakersfield, Calif.
% of Revenue: 14.5
Population: 316,000
As with many California cities, Bakersfield faces huge pension payments. Reform of the states system, CalPERS, was approved by the legislature last year but still faces court challenges.
6. Springfield, Mass.
% of Revenue: 15
Population: 150,000
A recent study found that for the third year in a row, Springfield's pension fund was the worst funded in the state. Its unfunded liabilities were pegged at $652.7 million in 2012.
5. Reno, Nev.
% of Revenue: 15.5
Population: 215,000
Nevada's public employee retirement system is under-funded to the tune of $11.2 billion, so it's not a huge surprise that one of its largest cities would land in the Top 10 of worst funded pension funds.
4. Charleston, W.Va.
% of Revenue: 15.7
Population: 50,000
Facing unfunded liabilities of $274 million, the city took drastic measures this summer that it hopes will allow it to avoid bankruptcy. To allow the pension fund to grow, the city decided to pay the pensions of current retirees out of its general revenue fund.
3. Aurora, Ill.
% of Revenue: 16.4
Population: 171,000
The state and its biggest city (see No. 2 on our list) are facing major pension funding problems, but politicians, so far, have not found a way to strike a deal to fix it.
2. Chicago
% of Revenue: 17
Population: 2.8 million
The city's mayor, Rahm Emanuel, has sounded the alarm about the city's pension crisis, saying the state needs to act first on its own troubles. So far, his pleas have fallen on deaf ears.
1. Little Rock, Ark.
% of Revenue: 17.6
Population: 187,000
The city has instituted a new retirement plan that goes into effect in January. Beginning then, employees who retire will receive monthly benefits checks. Current retirees received a lump sum payment when they ended their city service.
Now see which cities have the lowest, or best, percentage of pension liabilities to tax revenue:
10 (tie). Charlotte, N.C.
% of Revenue: 2.2
Population: 671,000
Charlotte has escaped the problem of the state. North Carolina, in a bid to increase its pension fund, is increasing its investments in real estate and private equity to try to ease an $800 billion gap in funding liabilities.
10 (tie). Greenwich, Conn.
% of Revenue: 2.2
Population: 62,000
This iconic enclave of the rich and famous on Connecticut's Gold Coast has managed to take care of its public pension business.
8 (tie). Chattanooga, Tenn.
% of Revenue: 2.1
Population: 170,000
Despite facing shortfalls in its police and fire pension funds, the health of the city's overall retirement fund is excellent.
8 (tie). Montpelier, Vt.
% of Revenue: 2.1
Population: 7,800
While many carp at the inability of state lawmakers to deal with pension problems, the capital city's funds are doing just fine.
7. Dover, Del.
% of Revenue: 2
Population: 36,000
Home to DuPont chemical corporation, the small city has kept abreast of payments to its public pension system.
6. Knoxville, Tenn.
% of Revenue: 1.9
Population: 183,000
4. (tie) Milwaukee
% of Revenue: 1.7
Population: 602,000
The city has consistently made its pension fund payments, something many cash-strapped municipalities failed to do when deciding where to cut budgets. Milwaukee's 12,000 retirees can breath a sigh of relief.
4 (tie). Cheyenne, Wyo.
% of Revenue: 1.7
Population: 55,000
The city's pension system is 92% funded. The state's pension fund is only slightly less funded at 89%.
3. Portland, Maine
% of Revenue: 1.6
Population: 63,000
Portland has been making its full pension contributions and its fund is 73%, mirroring the state's percentage.
2. Lincoln, Neb.
% of Revenue: 1.1
Population: 248,000
Lincoln might be know for its University of Nebraska football team, but its residents can be thankful that a low percentage of the city's revenues are used for pension obligations.
1. Vancouver, Wash.
% of Revenue: 1
Population: 161,000
A study by the Seattle Times suggested the state's pension system, generally considered to be in good shape, was not in as good a shape as reported, but Vancouver still comes out as the best when compared to city revenue.
Check out these Top 10 lists from ThinkAdvisor: