2011年8月22日星期一
Luxury goods create conflict for China's communist rulers
That seems to be creating headaches for China's communist rulers, who after three decades of exhorting their subjects to get rich are facing growing discontent over a widening income gap. Officials talk of making sure wealth is more evenly distributed and how to get the rich to tone it down.
As the global economy struggles and China tries to accelerate its shift to a more consumer-led growth model, Beijing's leaders see luxury items as a lucrative revenue source. Many Chinese buy luxury products in Hong Kong or abroad to avoid China's high taxes, so officials are debating a move to slash tariffs to encourage consumers to shop at home.
But the government is loath to be seen as taking measures to support the sliver of the population that can afford that pricey new Hermes bag or latest Ferrari, and it has delayed any decision on cutting tariffs, according to Chinese media reports and industry analysts.
"The government is facing a conflict," said Michael Ouyang, representative of the World Luxury Association in China. "They don't want to promote luxury because they are worried people who cannot afford it will see the advertisements. But they don't want to limit luxury products because it's good for the economy."
"People like showing off their wealth," said Yang Xu, who runs a shop called Vogue 2 that specializes in secondhand designer handbags. "The consumption of luxury products has grown too fast. It's beyond anybody's imagination."
The job: Drug security director
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worked in the army and in the British intelligence services for 12 years, and then I wanted to do something different. When I joined the pharma industry, a decade ago, there was a shift from physical security to investigating fake medicines in-house.
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Counterfeiting is seen as an issue of intellectual property as with fake handbags and clothes. That’s wrong. With medicines it should be a public health offence. The luxury goods industry uses lots of lawyers. But a faulty pair of jeans isn’t going to kill you; a fake medicine could. My goal is to find evidence of criminal offences and hand them on to law enforcement agencies for prosecution. We don’t just want the guy selling the medicines but also those making them, tracing back up the chain. The bad guys take advantage of existing criminal networks. We’ll use whichever laws work – the Al Capone approach.
I work on 40 to 50 cases at any time. I run a global team, since most are complex cross-border operations. I look after our investigators’ wellbeing because it’s a dangerous job. All my peers are from a similar background. They are former policemen, investigators and military people. We co-operate, socialise together and share a sense of public duty. Most of us wouldn’t do anything else.
2011年8月16日星期二
August is all about warm weather travel
August is all about warm weather travel. Those who haven’t taken a vacation yet will try to squeeze one in. Those who can’t afford to take a lot of time off will look forward to getting out of town for the long Labour Day weekend.
And whether you’re going on a multi-week vacation to a far-off locale or just taking a long weekend getaway, a chic piece of luggage adds to the exhilaration. A signature look can also reduce confusion when you’re trying to determine which piece is yours on the overcrowded conveyor belt at baggage claim.
A cute and identifiable bag doesn’t have to have a loud graphic print. Try a sleek model in a vibrant colour. For example, actress Diane Kruger carries a Rimowa Salsa Deluxe suitcase, which spins, glides and comes in a protective hard case ($475 for carry-on, Forero’s Bag and Luggage, 2186 West 41st Ave. in Vancouver). The bold suitcase adds a punch of colour to Kruger’s off-duty airport look, and the way the case rolls with minimal effort makes travelling with a lot of luggage far less cumbersome.
For something decidedly beachy, an aqua roller duffel from Halsea ($400, www.halsea.com) is perfect for a long weekend getaway. It’s a nice size for a few nights’ worth of clothing and a few days’ worth of bathing suits and cover-ups, plus you have the option of rolling it along with the pullout handle or carrying it.
For the hipster teen or anyone who favours an ‘80s-style neon print, Burton has an angular print carry-on roller ($169.95, available at select Sport Chek stores) that’s easy to spot even in a crowded terminal.
A leopard-print pony trolley from Jimmy Choo ($4,995, jimmychoo.com) certainly makes a statement. It’s a good match for the chic traveller who wants her travel gear to reflect her love of high-end accessories.
And for light and versatile packing without losing any style, Mulberry’s fold-up large clipper bag in a fuchsia and grey cheetah print ($450, mulberry.com) is the perfect size for carry-on or for a long weekend. A plus: It folds up neatly into its own little pouch when not in use.
The municipal bye-law
The municipal bye-law that has been approved and is about to be signed by Mayor Alcides Goitía will come into effect early in 2012. It bans the sale and use of plastic bags with a capacity of under 30 kg; larger bags will still be allowed, for collecting garbage. Penalties will be exacted for infringements, especially against those who throw plastic bags away in public places, or burn them.
"This decision arises from concern for the health and education of our people, the beauty of our landscape and the fostering of tourism, for our peninsula is blessed with beautiful beaches and scenery, fine food, and a free zone," Kile Baldayo, the president of the Carirubana local council, told IPS.
"The planet is choking on plastic bags. Everywhere in Venezuela is cluttered with them, from virtually every metre of coastline all the way to the tops of the 'tepuyes' (ancient flat-topped mountains in the southeastern province of Guayana), as well as our streets, fences and garbage dumps," Baldayo said. "It's time we did something to stop the degradation of the environment."
Pollution from plastic waste is not merely a matter of an aesthetic blight on the landscape, Alejandro Alvarez of the ARA network of environmental organisations told IPS. "When garbage is incinerated in the open air, large quantities of dioxins and furans are released, which is worrying even though we don't know the exact quantities emitted," he said.
Dioxins and furans are carcinogens that are produced when plastics are burned, and accumulate in oily solvents, soils, sediments, the food chain and human body tissues.
Reasoned arguments justifying the ordinance were presented to the city council of Carirubana by Goitia and Baldayo, who quoted statistics from the environmental watchdog Greenpeace indicating over six million tonnes of garbage, largely plastic waste, are dumped into the oceans every year.
2011年8月11日星期四
This bag only comes in black and comes with a baby changing pad
Coach Bags was begun in 1942 in a family loft in yuqiuxia135 as a family run business where everything was made by hand. Skills used to make these products have been used and passed on from past generations. Since the beginning, they have strived for the highest standards in quality and integrity. They do everything they can to make a high quality product every time. Coach is a leading designer in fine leather Cheap Coach Bags and custom fabrics. In addition to handbags, this company also makes accessories such as wallets, sunglasses, scarves, hats and many more. This company defines themselves by their quality and integrity and do everything they can to maintain this. In the United States and Canada, there are over 900 Coach stores. Coach merchandise can also be found in department stores, specialty stores and boutiques, and online at the Coach Crossbody Bags website. The United States makes up 75% of the Coach market with Japan in second with 19% of the market.
Coach is looking to expand their brand in Japan in the near future. The Coach Large Purses is one of the most recognizable brands in the United States. An exceptional level of quality and workmanship goes into each item made. This is true of the diaper bags as well. In the current line, Coach has two different baby bags available. The first is a patent leather bag. This discount coach purse has a price tag of $648. The top of this bag is a zipper closure and has two shoulder straps. There is an additional strap that can be detached. The lining inside this bag is custom fabric and the outside has pockets on each side. This bag only comes in black and comes with a baby changing pad. The second diaper bag for sale is an Op Art bag. This bag goes for $498. This bag comes with the brilliant Op Art design and has two colors available, pink and black. This bag has a zipper closure and has a custom lining. The outside has roomy pockets on each side and has two shoulder straps. There is an additional third strap that can be detached. Included with this Coach Shoulder Bags is a changing pad.
In addition to the Coach Bags Outlet, many of the other bags Coach offers would make excellent choices. There are numerous totes from different collections that are large and roomy enough to hold all of your gear. The Tribeca totes retail from $268 up to $498. The Cambridge collection has cross body bags that are leather and retail for $198. The Signature collection has the most options to choose from. The exterior patterns are numerous. You can choose from the signature C pattern, silver or gold shimmer patterns, animal prints, patent leather and many more. When buying your Coach bag, to ensure you are getting a true Coach, buy one from a retail store. Coach bags are only sold in stores, not from an individual, not from an overseas vendor and not from a purse party. Check the C's on your bag. The C's are always in pairs and always face each other. The pattern will not be ended in the middle of the pattern. The only place this will happen is on the side of the bag. All Coach bags will come with a dust bag. These bags are either brown or tan and will have the Coach logo stamped on them. The Coach brand has always strived for a high quality product. A diaper bag does not disappoint. These Cheap Coach Small Bags were made to last and they will do just that for a long time to come.
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Coach Wristlets can really allow you to meet all needs and much more. Understand and use some bags in hand constructor creates hip was functionally are also fashionable. It offers only been 4 simple weeks thinking about that started out stocking its electronic shelf with Coach bags.The new luxury company was released lastest style bags by Coach's resourceful Director. The styles became an instant strike and they also appear to obtain been hurtling away those individuals electronic shelf as rapidly as coach come in a positioning to investment them! Not bad for just about any new custom made! But Krakoff will have greater than twenty years of information within fashion universe, so it severely is no real surprise. So just what Cheap Coach Handbags styles tend to be presently accessible because of this designer? Just one single that greatly caught my eyesight appeared to be the stylish Coach totes. We'll end up being undertaking that requisite rundown of all coach clearance connected with Fall 2011′s pieces trends greater compared to following couple weeks, but when i saw that Coach Poppy Collection, I only couldn't aid myself. Mixing textures in addition to python will be the two quite necessary for this year's appears to be, and also this case combines the 2 main of them within of an quite wearable, good tote. I'd greatly adore to support me perform away my earlier early spring city chic glimpse excellent now, and I'll envision carrying it excellent through until the following one. Coach Handbags dark ensure it is on-trend nonetheless timeless, and also the feeling connected with enjoyment is actually evident within large size tags in addition to 'smiley' sloping zip pull to the front.
They have been the major dressmaker
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Appear, they have been the leading edge fashion designer simply because the core 1800's, they have to be going after a thing appropriate. Soaked basically sketch a person's eye with the consumer, not a chance. Each of these fashion designers ever have essential for the people actors likewise. See, it truly is standard to encounter famous people making use of (in addition to holding) clothes release by Lv. You discover people "LV" drinkers, go on even more if we would choose i believe have a group of the greatest carriers from the regular series...Before anything else directly on your list, we already have the main Lv Seosonal Arranged Neverfull MM Burgundy Laptop bag. It's really a resolutely current day wallet, which may be ideal journeying.
Furthermore, it is made for walking on community. It has a big style, which you will be capable to transform simply because offers pair unwanted shoulder straps. In reality young women, we like the as a result of not one but two part ring.We will own up that marilyn and i do not like having just one side band. Either portion ring within this backpack can make the idea very feasible. Managed to we each point out that that's built from real croco leatherette?Moreover it contains easy gold bras products to it, which always boosts the appearance. As you might think closing, you will recognize that doing it slides open and furthermore closes with a connect them. Inside it, you will find the Lv custom logo design, that is certainly how to say to it is really not a duplicate.Upcoming concerning my range often is the Lv Monogram Multicolor Judy, this is a white-coloured travelling bag. Judy Millimeter incredibly managed spice things up in the past year 09 all this plastic bag holds the matter. From the wonderful product, which always reflects which often former edgy coronary heart that is including common designer, Takashi Murakami. Our extras on this particular bag reach out to usa with regard to all natural cowhide household leather.
2011年8月9日星期二
Diva Handbags hosting contest for breast cancer awareness
BARBOURSVILLE -- Divas Handbags is hosting a Bra Ha Ha Decorating Contest to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer. Individuals or groups are encouraged to participate and decorate a bra any way they choose.
Bras can be submitted at Divas Handbags in the Huntington Mall. There is a $5 registration fee and all bras must be on hangers. Submissions will be taken on Sept. 29-30.
After bras are submitted, people are encouraged to visit Divas Handbags and vote for their favorite creations. Voting will take place throughout the month of October. All votes cost $1 each. Winners will be awarded in categories including Queen Diva, Blingiest Bra, Biggest Bra and Best Pink Ribbon-Themed Bra.
On Oct. 30, the bras will be moved to the Breast Cancer Walk in Ritter Park for continued voting and the announcement of winners.
All proceeds collected will benefit the West Virginia Breast and Cervical Cancer Diagnostic and Treatment Fund.
Kim Kardashian goes classic in Bottega Veneta at Teen Choice Awards
Kim Kardashian goes classic in Bottega Veneta at Teen Choice Awards
Kim Kardashian arrived with her family at last night’s Teen Choice Awards wearing a sassy Givenchy cocktail
dress paired with Christian Louboutin heels and a classic Bottega Veneta Love Knot clutch. The black and
white Givenchy dress featured a textured feather skirt with demure halter turtleneck. Kim Kardashian pulled
the gown together with an exotic snakeskin belt giving the impression she walked right off the runway.
The Bottega Veneta Love Knot clutch worn by Kim Kardashian is a classic woven leather handbag which can
easily be worn as a small daytime clutch or paired with a formal dress for gala events. Kim Kardashian’s
Love Knot clutch by Bottega Veneta is easy to pair with any ensemble and was a good investment handbag on
the celebrity’s part. The clutch features a hard box frame structure and Bottega Veneta’s signature “Love
Knot” closure on top. The iconic design house has been designing the Love Knot clutch for ten years and the
popular style has become a highly coveted classic.
Kim Kardashian arrived with her family at last night’s Teen Choice Awards wearing a sassy Givenchy cocktail
dress paired with Christian Louboutin heels and a classic Bottega Veneta Love Knot clutch. The black and
white Givenchy dress featured a textured feather skirt with demure halter turtleneck. Kim Kardashian pulled
the gown together with an exotic snakeskin belt giving the impression she walked right off the runway.
The Bottega Veneta Love Knot clutch worn by Kim Kardashian is a classic woven leather handbag which can
easily be worn as a small daytime clutch or paired with a formal dress for gala events. Kim Kardashian’s
Love Knot clutch by Bottega Veneta is easy to pair with any ensemble and was a good investment handbag on
the celebrity’s part. The clutch features a hard box frame structure and Bottega Veneta’s signature “Love
Knot” closure on top. The iconic design house has been designing the Love Knot clutch for ten years and the
popular style has become a highly coveted classic.
2011年8月5日星期五
They have handed the bag to police
They have handed the bag to police in the hope of saving motorists the cost of new car parts.Ben’s mother Paula Dixon, 38, of Tintern Road, said: ‘My son was pleased to have found them.
‘He phoned home and asked us to come and get the bag because he was worried he might get the blame if he touched them.
‘I don’t understand why anyone would want to take them in the first place.
‘In one road I think there were about 15 of them which had been taken.
‘Since I found out I started looking around when I walk the dog and I noticed cars all over the place which were missing aerials.
‘Maybe it’s just stereotypical teenagers who did it for no real reason other than to inconvenience people.
‘It’s always the working people like us who get the trouble. My mother had hers stolen so maybe it’s in the bag.’
It is thought drivers in several streets around Harcourt Road were targeted by the thieves.
One resident of Harcourt Road, who did not want to be named, said: ‘I went out and bought a new aerial for my car after it was stolen only to find it was in this bag.
I don’t see the point of it. A few years ago I had some other car parts stolen.
That I could understand because they were valuable metals.
But what’s the point in stealing car aerials only to dump them somewhere?
I don’t think there’s any value to them.
‘Hopefully now we have got them back people who have had their aerials stolen can try and get them back.’
A spokesman for Hampshire Constabulary said two residents of Harcourt Road had contacted officers about stolen aerials on July 22 and July 25.
No other incidents have been recorded but police say other aerial thefts were probably unreported.
‘He phoned home and asked us to come and get the bag because he was worried he might get the blame if he touched them.
‘I don’t understand why anyone would want to take them in the first place.
‘In one road I think there were about 15 of them which had been taken.
‘Since I found out I started looking around when I walk the dog and I noticed cars all over the place which were missing aerials.
‘Maybe it’s just stereotypical teenagers who did it for no real reason other than to inconvenience people.
‘It’s always the working people like us who get the trouble. My mother had hers stolen so maybe it’s in the bag.’
It is thought drivers in several streets around Harcourt Road were targeted by the thieves.
One resident of Harcourt Road, who did not want to be named, said: ‘I went out and bought a new aerial for my car after it was stolen only to find it was in this bag.
I don’t see the point of it. A few years ago I had some other car parts stolen.
That I could understand because they were valuable metals.
But what’s the point in stealing car aerials only to dump them somewhere?
I don’t think there’s any value to them.
‘Hopefully now we have got them back people who have had their aerials stolen can try and get them back.’
A spokesman for Hampshire Constabulary said two residents of Harcourt Road had contacted officers about stolen aerials on July 22 and July 25.
No other incidents have been recorded but police say other aerial thefts were probably unreported.
Beginning with the upcoming school year
Beginning with the upcoming school year, the state will do away with the Stanford Achievement Test and combine the ARMT with the ASA.
Students will take the ARMT+ test next spring, which will include reading, math and science.
Grades three through eight will take the test, Mullins said.
"The SAT is a norm-reference test that was 'normed' 10 years ago," Mullins said. "It has become an older test. The focus now will be on the Alabama course of studies, and the new testing will measure how well we are teaching the children."
Arab remained in fourth place in the state on the SAT; however, students' grades did improve.
Mountain Brook was first at 89, followed by Vestavia Hills at 82.34 then Cullman City at 81.17. Arab was fourth at 79.59 and Madison City was fifth at 79.17.
Locally, Albertville was 56.42, Boaz was 61.92, Guntersville was 71.08, and Marshall County was 57.67. The state average was 58.42.
One score of note was fourth grade math, where students scored 90, the system's highest score since the test began in 2003.
Though it remained in fourth place on the final SAT, Arab's overall score improved over last year's 78.2.
Arab's scores on the SAT have climbed steadily in recent years. In 2003 - when Arab broke into eighth place in state SAT scores - the mean score in the system was 68.66.
Mullins said he, the faculty and staff of Arab City Schools are pleased with the test results.
"It's always pleasing when hard work pays the dividends that you expect," he said. "We are truly blessed with wonderful people - students and adults. That's not a clich/. That is absolutely true."
Students will take the ARMT+ test next spring, which will include reading, math and science.
Grades three through eight will take the test, Mullins said.
"The SAT is a norm-reference test that was 'normed' 10 years ago," Mullins said. "It has become an older test. The focus now will be on the Alabama course of studies, and the new testing will measure how well we are teaching the children."
Arab remained in fourth place in the state on the SAT; however, students' grades did improve.
Mountain Brook was first at 89, followed by Vestavia Hills at 82.34 then Cullman City at 81.17. Arab was fourth at 79.59 and Madison City was fifth at 79.17.
Locally, Albertville was 56.42, Boaz was 61.92, Guntersville was 71.08, and Marshall County was 57.67. The state average was 58.42.
One score of note was fourth grade math, where students scored 90, the system's highest score since the test began in 2003.
Though it remained in fourth place on the final SAT, Arab's overall score improved over last year's 78.2.
Arab's scores on the SAT have climbed steadily in recent years. In 2003 - when Arab broke into eighth place in state SAT scores - the mean score in the system was 68.66.
Mullins said he, the faculty and staff of Arab City Schools are pleased with the test results.
"It's always pleasing when hard work pays the dividends that you expect," he said. "We are truly blessed with wonderful people - students and adults. That's not a clich/. That is absolutely true."
2011年8月2日星期二
And there are no do-overs
And there are no do-overs. "Golf gives no margin," he writes. "You cannot hedge; you cannot bluff; you cannot give a stop-order; you cannot jilt. One chance is given you, and you hit or miss . and it is just this ultra and extreme rigidity that makes golf so intensely interesting."
Most of Haultain's best golfing insights are equally plain-spoken, but for a complete appreciation of his writing - very much a product of his time and intellectual station - you might want to have some extra "clubs" in your bag.
A good thesaurus, a couple of classical dictionaries, an anatomy textbook, an understanding of 19th century psychology and a solid grounding in the works of practically every big hitter on the Western tour, from Herodotus to Hegel, from Shakespeare to Schiller, from Juvenal to William James - all would help. But they're not all that necessary.
One solid investment, though, might a dictionary of Scottish English, where you could conceivably find some of the standard golfing terms of Haultain's day, most of them now sadly superseded by the bland nomenclature of the contemporary game. Clubs are brasseys (drivers), niblicks (irons) and creeks (oneirons); mis-hits are sclaffs and foozlers.
"Say what you the scoffers may," Haultain writes, "to foozle at golf ... cuts right down to the very deeps of the human soul."
Amen to that. A century later, virtually all of Haultain's amateurish (in the good sense) observations hold true - except for his complete whiff on the subject of professionalism. Golf, he declares, "will never be played by highly-paid professionals for the delectation of a howling and betting mob; nor, thank Heavens, will rooters ever sit on fences and screech at its results."
Most of Haultain's best golfing insights are equally plain-spoken, but for a complete appreciation of his writing - very much a product of his time and intellectual station - you might want to have some extra "clubs" in your bag.
A good thesaurus, a couple of classical dictionaries, an anatomy textbook, an understanding of 19th century psychology and a solid grounding in the works of practically every big hitter on the Western tour, from Herodotus to Hegel, from Shakespeare to Schiller, from Juvenal to William James - all would help. But they're not all that necessary.
One solid investment, though, might a dictionary of Scottish English, where you could conceivably find some of the standard golfing terms of Haultain's day, most of them now sadly superseded by the bland nomenclature of the contemporary game. Clubs are brasseys (drivers), niblicks (irons) and creeks (oneirons); mis-hits are sclaffs and foozlers.
"Say what you the scoffers may," Haultain writes, "to foozle at golf ... cuts right down to the very deeps of the human soul."
Amen to that. A century later, virtually all of Haultain's amateurish (in the good sense) observations hold true - except for his complete whiff on the subject of professionalism. Golf, he declares, "will never be played by highly-paid professionals for the delectation of a howling and betting mob; nor, thank Heavens, will rooters ever sit on fences and screech at its results."
Marion County has three boats and five deputies
Marion County has three boats and five deputies. The county patrols Detroit Lake and does marine checks at Silverton Reservoir and Walter Wirth Lake in Salem.
“We try to balance our patrol focus between customer service and safety and enforcement action,” lead deputy Dave Zahn said in an email. “We make a lot of contacts with boaters, offering assistance and conducting boat safety inspections.”
Marty Law, boating safety section manager for the Oregon State Marine Board, attributes some of the improvements to improved boater education, increased use of life jackets and better engineered boats.
“We’ve had a number of accidents that could have been more tragic if people hadn’t been wearing life jackets,” Law said. “And boats are just better engineered and people are more educated.”
Still, the incidents come at a cost. Since 2005 there has been nearly $2.5 million in damages and 82 deaths.
Most incidents in Oregon occur on rivers, with 211 since 2005. The Columbia accounts for the most at 73, with the Willamette second at 48 and the Rogue third at 32.
“Really, you have a white water river near every major metropolitan area,” Marty Law said. “It’s great boating, but you have to be prepared and ready to be on those waterways and have some knowledge and experience.”
Arrests for boating under the influence have held steady, fluctuating from more than 100 in 2005 and 2009 to only 46 in 2010 and 10 this year.
“It’s not uncommon to run into BUIIs,” said Oregon State Police Sergeant Ron Martin in Springfield. “Once ever couple of weeks we’ll be on the river, so just from the number of patrols we don’t run into that many, but we’ll get several a year, 10-12 depending on the season.”
Law said arrests can vary as different departments crack down on certain areas, changing the overall numbers, but for the most part he’s been encouraged by what he’s seen on the water.
“For a number of years we did campaigns on boating and alcohol by the operator but also passengers,” Law said. “That’s a critical piece, but what we’re hearing and what we’ve seen in surveys we’ve done is that social acceptance of drinking and operating a motorboat is down.”
On Thursday, Polk County’s Rice spent time checking crafts and speaking with boaters, even tagging Western Oregon student Meza for failing to carry a life jacket.
“We try to balance our patrol focus between customer service and safety and enforcement action,” lead deputy Dave Zahn said in an email. “We make a lot of contacts with boaters, offering assistance and conducting boat safety inspections.”
Marty Law, boating safety section manager for the Oregon State Marine Board, attributes some of the improvements to improved boater education, increased use of life jackets and better engineered boats.
“We’ve had a number of accidents that could have been more tragic if people hadn’t been wearing life jackets,” Law said. “And boats are just better engineered and people are more educated.”
Still, the incidents come at a cost. Since 2005 there has been nearly $2.5 million in damages and 82 deaths.
Most incidents in Oregon occur on rivers, with 211 since 2005. The Columbia accounts for the most at 73, with the Willamette second at 48 and the Rogue third at 32.
“Really, you have a white water river near every major metropolitan area,” Marty Law said. “It’s great boating, but you have to be prepared and ready to be on those waterways and have some knowledge and experience.”
Arrests for boating under the influence have held steady, fluctuating from more than 100 in 2005 and 2009 to only 46 in 2010 and 10 this year.
“It’s not uncommon to run into BUIIs,” said Oregon State Police Sergeant Ron Martin in Springfield. “Once ever couple of weeks we’ll be on the river, so just from the number of patrols we don’t run into that many, but we’ll get several a year, 10-12 depending on the season.”
Law said arrests can vary as different departments crack down on certain areas, changing the overall numbers, but for the most part he’s been encouraged by what he’s seen on the water.
“For a number of years we did campaigns on boating and alcohol by the operator but also passengers,” Law said. “That’s a critical piece, but what we’re hearing and what we’ve seen in surveys we’ve done is that social acceptance of drinking and operating a motorboat is down.”
On Thursday, Polk County’s Rice spent time checking crafts and speaking with boaters, even tagging Western Oregon student Meza for failing to carry a life jacket.
2011年7月27日星期三
In an exclusive interview before the launch
In an exclusive interview before the launch, Babin expressed his passion about the brand known for its consistency.
Babin has been at the helm of TAG Heuer since November 2000 and draws his inspiration from the TAG Heuer DNA.
He said as one of the oldest watch making companies from Switzerland, TAG Heuer was mostly family-owned until the 1980s.
“We were the first one in 1916 to get the 1/100th of a second mechanical, which opened the gates to timing the Olympic Games in 1920s.
“Till today we are one of the capable watch making companies who has produced mechanical chronograph, represented in Geneva accurate 1/100th of a second.
“We have established and reinforced unique leadership in mastering the most accurate time covering many different sports thanks to out time keeping instruments,” he said.
Babin said before 1916, sport events were measured 1/5th of a second.
This, according to Babin was not accurate enough to establish a real winner sometimes.
With the precise time-keeping instrument, the company has helped to add integrity to sports and this is a source of pride for the brand.
In the luxury market worldwide, TAG Heuer is the fourth largest brand and in Malaysia it is the second largest. “We have a very strong investment and our boutique is the seventh in Malaysia, making it the second country in terms of boutique behind China and worldwide.
“For us, Malaysia is a primary market and by bringing Shah Rukh Khan, it shows how serious we take the market’s potential,” he said, adding that the boutique helped to reaffirm the brand’s stellar position in the industry.
He added China was a challenge as they only ventured into it two years ago, thus they would have to employ similar strategy like in Malaysia to become one of the leading brands.
“Out target for Malaysia is to become No. 1 and enhance our reputation and the desirability factor.”
Babin has been at the helm of TAG Heuer since November 2000 and draws his inspiration from the TAG Heuer DNA.
He said as one of the oldest watch making companies from Switzerland, TAG Heuer was mostly family-owned until the 1980s.
“We were the first one in 1916 to get the 1/100th of a second mechanical, which opened the gates to timing the Olympic Games in 1920s.
“Till today we are one of the capable watch making companies who has produced mechanical chronograph, represented in Geneva accurate 1/100th of a second.
“We have established and reinforced unique leadership in mastering the most accurate time covering many different sports thanks to out time keeping instruments,” he said.
Babin said before 1916, sport events were measured 1/5th of a second.
This, according to Babin was not accurate enough to establish a real winner sometimes.
With the precise time-keeping instrument, the company has helped to add integrity to sports and this is a source of pride for the brand.
In the luxury market worldwide, TAG Heuer is the fourth largest brand and in Malaysia it is the second largest. “We have a very strong investment and our boutique is the seventh in Malaysia, making it the second country in terms of boutique behind China and worldwide.
“For us, Malaysia is a primary market and by bringing Shah Rukh Khan, it shows how serious we take the market’s potential,” he said, adding that the boutique helped to reaffirm the brand’s stellar position in the industry.
He added China was a challenge as they only ventured into it two years ago, thus they would have to employ similar strategy like in Malaysia to become one of the leading brands.
“Out target for Malaysia is to become No. 1 and enhance our reputation and the desirability factor.”
Monday workers at the Las Brisas apartment complex
Monday workers at the Las Brisas apartment complex in Round Rock put another coat of paint over the breezeway floor that had been covered in blood Saturday.
Investigators say three teens from Georgetown, 19-year-old Derek Hawkins, 18-year-old Joshua Oldham and 18-year-old Santos Vega, confronted 25-year-old Thomas Carruthers.
"Their intent was to rob him of the drugs he was thought to be carrying," said Eric Poteet, the Round Rock Police Public Information Officer.
Police say the robbery turned into a fatal stabbing. Arrest affidavits indicate Vega confessed to stabbing Carruthers in the chest.
"Somebody you just met and then all of sudden they are dead," said Connie Thompson, who lives at apartment complex.
Thompson said she, her daughter, and daughter's boyfriend met Carruthers and others just a couple of weeks ago. They all got together to play volleyball.
"I think it was on the news and something just clicked," said Thompson. "I was like, 'What?' It is pretty sad. Even my daughter and her friends are in shock right now."
Thompson and other apartment residents are relieved those responsible for Carruthers' death have been arrested.
"It is an extreme sense of relief that they were caught, and hopefully everything turns out right in the end," said Brianda Hernandez, who just moved to the apartment. "I am extremely relieved."
Round Rock police say they did find what may be drugs on Carruthers, but they're not saying how much or what kind. Investigators say they'll determine that in the lab. While police still consider this an open investigation as they iron out the final details, they say all the people responsible for Carruthers' murder are now in jail.
Investigators say three teens from Georgetown, 19-year-old Derek Hawkins, 18-year-old Joshua Oldham and 18-year-old Santos Vega, confronted 25-year-old Thomas Carruthers.
"Their intent was to rob him of the drugs he was thought to be carrying," said Eric Poteet, the Round Rock Police Public Information Officer.
Police say the robbery turned into a fatal stabbing. Arrest affidavits indicate Vega confessed to stabbing Carruthers in the chest.
"Somebody you just met and then all of sudden they are dead," said Connie Thompson, who lives at apartment complex.
Thompson said she, her daughter, and daughter's boyfriend met Carruthers and others just a couple of weeks ago. They all got together to play volleyball.
"I think it was on the news and something just clicked," said Thompson. "I was like, 'What?' It is pretty sad. Even my daughter and her friends are in shock right now."
Thompson and other apartment residents are relieved those responsible for Carruthers' death have been arrested.
"It is an extreme sense of relief that they were caught, and hopefully everything turns out right in the end," said Brianda Hernandez, who just moved to the apartment. "I am extremely relieved."
Round Rock police say they did find what may be drugs on Carruthers, but they're not saying how much or what kind. Investigators say they'll determine that in the lab. While police still consider this an open investigation as they iron out the final details, they say all the people responsible for Carruthers' murder are now in jail.
2011年7月21日星期四
We woke up Tuesday morning
We woke up Tuesday morning in our borrowed Noe Valley Victorian home with a hankering for a duck sandwich, so we skipped down the steps past the happy workmen who are restoring our in-laws' house and walked a mile down 24th Street to the BART station in the Mission. We walk down hills now and take the MUNI buses uphill. It's no different than skiing.
We were a little disoriented when we got to the train and we ended up going the wrong way, to Glen Park rather than to the Embarcadero. No big deal, we got off at Glen Park, jumped aboard another train and sped down to the Embarcadero for the Tuesday Farmers Market in and around the beautifully renovated Ferry Building.
Three or four years ago, we had a great duck sandwich at the Ferry Building, and we aimed to recreate the experience.
First, we walked from one end of the market to the other, both inside and out. No duck sandwich. Lots of cheese, lots of wine, lots of heirloom tomatoes, lots of $50 ballpoint pens, but no duck sandwich.
"Is there a place here that sells duck sandwiches," we asked a man selling all kinds of honey.
"A duck sandwich?" he said, and then actually waited for us to assure him that, yes, that's what we said: a duck sandwich. "I haven't heard of anyplace like that," he said.
We tried the lady who made a living selling nothing but giant sunflowers. "A few years ago, there was a place where I got a duck sandwich. Do you know if that's still here?" we asked.
What is it with the flabbergasted responses? Yes, a duck sandwich. Bread-duck-bread. A duck sandwich.
"No," said Sunflower. "I don't think so."
Our quest quashed, we decided to just do regular farmers marketing. We hadn't brought anything with us in which to carry our purchases, so we swung by the market's kiosk to buy a Ferry Building bag, a little canvas tote like you'd get at the grocery store, maybe a smidgeon nicer than that. We're thinking $3; $5 tops.
K, that'll be $17,chirped the bag lady. We're the kind of idiot who won't recoil in horror at something like that. It takes us three and a half days to make $17, but we've gotta act like a big shot who goes around making ludicrous purchases for sport.
We were a little disoriented when we got to the train and we ended up going the wrong way, to Glen Park rather than to the Embarcadero. No big deal, we got off at Glen Park, jumped aboard another train and sped down to the Embarcadero for the Tuesday Farmers Market in and around the beautifully renovated Ferry Building.
Three or four years ago, we had a great duck sandwich at the Ferry Building, and we aimed to recreate the experience.
First, we walked from one end of the market to the other, both inside and out. No duck sandwich. Lots of cheese, lots of wine, lots of heirloom tomatoes, lots of $50 ballpoint pens, but no duck sandwich.
"Is there a place here that sells duck sandwiches," we asked a man selling all kinds of honey.
"A duck sandwich?" he said, and then actually waited for us to assure him that, yes, that's what we said: a duck sandwich. "I haven't heard of anyplace like that," he said.
We tried the lady who made a living selling nothing but giant sunflowers. "A few years ago, there was a place where I got a duck sandwich. Do you know if that's still here?" we asked.
What is it with the flabbergasted responses? Yes, a duck sandwich. Bread-duck-bread. A duck sandwich.
"No," said Sunflower. "I don't think so."
Our quest quashed, we decided to just do regular farmers marketing. We hadn't brought anything with us in which to carry our purchases, so we swung by the market's kiosk to buy a Ferry Building bag, a little canvas tote like you'd get at the grocery store, maybe a smidgeon nicer than that. We're thinking $3; $5 tops.
K, that'll be $17,chirped the bag lady. We're the kind of idiot who won't recoil in horror at something like that. It takes us three and a half days to make $17, but we've gotta act like a big shot who goes around making ludicrous purchases for sport.
The old eight glasses of water
The old eight glasses of water a day adage is one of those things that has generally been accepted as fact. I've certainly come across it in numerous publications or on television presented as gospel. Not that anyone who's ever earnestly exhorted their fellow human beings to glug, glug, glug to this extent has ever once quoted a scientific study supporting this quantity as recommended intake...probably because there isn't one. I know no better than you where the eight glasses measurement came from; maybe someone just thought it was a nice even number, who knows? But it's always struck me as excessive. Especially since I grew out of my Dolly magazine phase.
Back in the days when I believed Dolly magazine to be the oracle of all things cool and sophisticated, i.e. the conduit through which I might attain womanly perfection (the 14-year-old version - the one with Johnny Depp escorting me to the movies, he in a waistcoat, white T-shirt and jeans, me in a hot pink tulle bubble skirt) I pretty much believed any old rubbish they printed in it including the classic "your skin and hair will be beautiful if you drink eight glasses of water a day but just in case that doesn't work here's an ad for Clearasil" ruse.
So I gave it a good honest try. Eight glasses of water a day? Not a problem. Easy peasy lemon squeezy. I mean, if it was the best way to great skin and hair and was free then why the hell wouldn't you? You know, just in case J. Depp esquire ever plucked up the courage to ask you out, you'd want to be looking your best, wouldn't you?
I lasted two days. I can't say that it did anything for my complexion but by the end of the weekend my "unzip and sit" action had never been smoother. Even staggering the eight glasses over the day and not drinking any other liquids, it still seemed as if I spent 70 per cent of my time going to or coming back from having a wee. The remaining 30 per cent was spent on the actual weeing.
Back in the days when I believed Dolly magazine to be the oracle of all things cool and sophisticated, i.e. the conduit through which I might attain womanly perfection (the 14-year-old version - the one with Johnny Depp escorting me to the movies, he in a waistcoat, white T-shirt and jeans, me in a hot pink tulle bubble skirt) I pretty much believed any old rubbish they printed in it including the classic "your skin and hair will be beautiful if you drink eight glasses of water a day but just in case that doesn't work here's an ad for Clearasil" ruse.
So I gave it a good honest try. Eight glasses of water a day? Not a problem. Easy peasy lemon squeezy. I mean, if it was the best way to great skin and hair and was free then why the hell wouldn't you? You know, just in case J. Depp esquire ever plucked up the courage to ask you out, you'd want to be looking your best, wouldn't you?
I lasted two days. I can't say that it did anything for my complexion but by the end of the weekend my "unzip and sit" action had never been smoother. Even staggering the eight glasses over the day and not drinking any other liquids, it still seemed as if I spent 70 per cent of my time going to or coming back from having a wee. The remaining 30 per cent was spent on the actual weeing.
2011年7月18日星期一
A Hub for Green Careers
Siliken S. A., a leading Spanish solar module manufacturing company, announced plans to establish a $5 to $7 billionsolar facility in Windsor, Ontario. This domestic compliant manufacturing plant will be operative by mid-2011 and generate enough clean energy (50 megawatts) to power the equivalent of 19,000 households.
Expected to be among the largest in North America, this venture will create 175 direct jobs, positively impacting Ontario's green career market. Commenting on the significance of this investment, Brad Duguid, Ontario's Minister of Energy said, "Attracting investment like Siliken's manufacturing plant is precisely what the McGuinty government set out to do through the Green Energy Act and Feed-in-Tariff program." He adds, "Working together with companies like Siliken, we are promoting renewable energy and made-in-Ontario technology, creating new jobs for Ontarians, and making our air cleaner for our kids and grandkids."
Solar Installations Produce Green Careers
Substantial investments in solar panel installations have made Ontario a hub for clean energy and fertile ground for furthering green careers. According to Ron Gaudet, CEO of the Windsor Essex Economic Development Corporation (WEEDC), "Siliken's position as a global leader in solar technology is a recognition of our region's goal of becoming the site of choice for renewable energy investments in North America." Guadet continued, "We are positioned to become the hub for renewable energy technology and manufacturing in North America."
Besides Siliken, more than a dozen green companies have initiated commercial ventures over the last two years. Polar Racking, OYA Solar, and Harrow's Atlas Tuberecently proposed North America's biggest rooftop solar installation.
Solar Growth Creates Demand for PV (Photovoltaic) Installation Classes
Ontario is clearly in the midst of a solar revolution, but according to a report by Canadian Solar Industries Association (CanSIA), the entire country is experiencing "solar" labour shortages a problem that is only expected to worsen in the coming year. To counteract this trend, CanSIA, among other measures, suggested a nationwide certification program for PV and solar thermal installers. Currently, Canada has only one ISPQ-accredited PV training school Ontario Solar Academy, but for the province and country to meet their long-term sustainability goals, they both must redouble their efforts to train a green workforce capable of leading North America into a clean energy future.
Expected to be among the largest in North America, this venture will create 175 direct jobs, positively impacting Ontario's green career market. Commenting on the significance of this investment, Brad Duguid, Ontario's Minister of Energy said, "Attracting investment like Siliken's manufacturing plant is precisely what the McGuinty government set out to do through the Green Energy Act and Feed-in-Tariff program." He adds, "Working together with companies like Siliken, we are promoting renewable energy and made-in-Ontario technology, creating new jobs for Ontarians, and making our air cleaner for our kids and grandkids."
Solar Installations Produce Green Careers
Substantial investments in solar panel installations have made Ontario a hub for clean energy and fertile ground for furthering green careers. According to Ron Gaudet, CEO of the Windsor Essex Economic Development Corporation (WEEDC), "Siliken's position as a global leader in solar technology is a recognition of our region's goal of becoming the site of choice for renewable energy investments in North America." Guadet continued, "We are positioned to become the hub for renewable energy technology and manufacturing in North America."
Besides Siliken, more than a dozen green companies have initiated commercial ventures over the last two years. Polar Racking, OYA Solar, and Harrow's Atlas Tuberecently proposed North America's biggest rooftop solar installation.
Solar Growth Creates Demand for PV (Photovoltaic) Installation Classes
Ontario is clearly in the midst of a solar revolution, but according to a report by Canadian Solar Industries Association (CanSIA), the entire country is experiencing "solar" labour shortages a problem that is only expected to worsen in the coming year. To counteract this trend, CanSIA, among other measures, suggested a nationwide certification program for PV and solar thermal installers. Currently, Canada has only one ISPQ-accredited PV training school Ontario Solar Academy, but for the province and country to meet their long-term sustainability goals, they both must redouble their efforts to train a green workforce capable of leading North America into a clean energy future.
Buying in Rural Valencia Spain
When people decide to move to Spain, the things that they are wary of, are, amongst other things, being without the "comforts of home", i.e. mains electricity, water and drainage, and a telephone. If the estate agent broaches the subject of solar power and/or deposit, or tank, water, some people are disinclined to even consider the possibilities, as solar power is thought of as "something new" and therefore to be avoided. Deposit water supply is seen as returning to something akin to the Middle Ages.
When we started looking for property in Spain, we contacted Peek at Spain who, after showing us numerous properties within our original criteria, showed us the perfect house. Our priorities when searching had been the usual, mains electricity, mains water/drainage and telephone.
Our property came with none of the above, but the situation and style more than made up for this. We were told that solar power was easily obtained, and although enquiries were made, by Peek at Spain SL, on our behalf, to see if mains water could be added, this proved not to be practicable, at least in the immediate future. With their help, we contacted both a solar system installer, and the man who would be our water supplier, who both proved to be extremely helpful.
Solar Power
When we first told people, both here and back in England, we were having this installed, they thought we were mad! However, it is not such a new concept, nor as scary as people think. Solar Power systems have been around for many years, and have continually improved, and provide totally "green" energy. Within days of purchasing the house, work began to install the solar panels. This was completed within the week, giving us more than enough power to run all the usual household appliances e.g. TV, fridge/freezer and washing machine (‘A' category recommended) computer, lighting, etc., enough for a 5 bed house.
We also run the swimming pool pump and filtration system several times a day via the solar system. Although installation costs are initially quite expensive, (for our system about 12,500 Euros) the EU gives grants of anything up to 50% for houses who are not already supplied by the National Grid. These are applied for, and processed by, the supplier, and are not applicable for a self-installed system. This year, 2005, the grant amount was around 24%.
We have now been advised that there is a Government Zero interest loan available to get you on the way!
Once installed, the system pays for itself, and there is the added advantage of NO BILLS! There is also the reassurance that we have constant supply, other than those on the National Grid, whose supply sometimes fails in adverse weather conditions, or when too many appliances are used at once. On particularly grey days (of which there are very few) we have a generator to boost the battery supply from time to time, thus the only cost is a minimal amount of fuel to power this occasionally.
Since acquiring this system, we have become much more aware of what electricity we are using - turning off unnecessary lights, appliances etc, whenever possible, and using low energy bulbs, although this is not strictly necessary. Certain things use up a lot of power, e.g. irons and electric kettles. Although it is possible to run the iron using the solar system, it drains the system quite quickly, so we tend to minimise the amount of ironing we have to do (thankfully!) and also plug the iron straight into the generator, via an installed socket supply direct to the house.
The system consists of solar panels (amount to be assessed by the installer with regard to your particular requirements), a series of large batteries and a power inverter to convert the stored electricity to usable power - in fact, your very own electricity substation. After all, when you switch a light on, it makes no difference where the power comes from - it works!
When we started looking for property in Spain, we contacted Peek at Spain who, after showing us numerous properties within our original criteria, showed us the perfect house. Our priorities when searching had been the usual, mains electricity, mains water/drainage and telephone.
Our property came with none of the above, but the situation and style more than made up for this. We were told that solar power was easily obtained, and although enquiries were made, by Peek at Spain SL, on our behalf, to see if mains water could be added, this proved not to be practicable, at least in the immediate future. With their help, we contacted both a solar system installer, and the man who would be our water supplier, who both proved to be extremely helpful.
Solar Power
When we first told people, both here and back in England, we were having this installed, they thought we were mad! However, it is not such a new concept, nor as scary as people think. Solar Power systems have been around for many years, and have continually improved, and provide totally "green" energy. Within days of purchasing the house, work began to install the solar panels. This was completed within the week, giving us more than enough power to run all the usual household appliances e.g. TV, fridge/freezer and washing machine (‘A' category recommended) computer, lighting, etc., enough for a 5 bed house.
We also run the swimming pool pump and filtration system several times a day via the solar system. Although installation costs are initially quite expensive, (for our system about 12,500 Euros) the EU gives grants of anything up to 50% for houses who are not already supplied by the National Grid. These are applied for, and processed by, the supplier, and are not applicable for a self-installed system. This year, 2005, the grant amount was around 24%.
We have now been advised that there is a Government Zero interest loan available to get you on the way!
Once installed, the system pays for itself, and there is the added advantage of NO BILLS! There is also the reassurance that we have constant supply, other than those on the National Grid, whose supply sometimes fails in adverse weather conditions, or when too many appliances are used at once. On particularly grey days (of which there are very few) we have a generator to boost the battery supply from time to time, thus the only cost is a minimal amount of fuel to power this occasionally.
Since acquiring this system, we have become much more aware of what electricity we are using - turning off unnecessary lights, appliances etc, whenever possible, and using low energy bulbs, although this is not strictly necessary. Certain things use up a lot of power, e.g. irons and electric kettles. Although it is possible to run the iron using the solar system, it drains the system quite quickly, so we tend to minimise the amount of ironing we have to do (thankfully!) and also plug the iron straight into the generator, via an installed socket supply direct to the house.
The system consists of solar panels (amount to be assessed by the installer with regard to your particular requirements), a series of large batteries and a power inverter to convert the stored electricity to usable power - in fact, your very own electricity substation. After all, when you switch a light on, it makes no difference where the power comes from - it works!
2011年7月15日星期五
The plastic bag ban that takes effect in one year
The plastic bag ban that takes effect in one year also drew some contrasting positions after a questioner asked candidates' opinions on "so-called nanny laws such as the plastic bag ordinance" with their "incremental loss of freedom."
Fleetwood, the driving force behind the adoption of the ordinance, confronted the issue head-on.
"We live in a country of enormous personal freedoms and liberties," Fleetwood said. "We don't, however, have the right to do harm. ... They (plastic bags) kill wildlife. It's a scourge. It's easy to change that with the simplest of changes in behavior."
Farr, his opponent, sent a mixed message.
"I am opposed to things happening that take away my rights," Farr said. "I would much rather educate than legislate." But he added, "I don't think it's a bad law."
Pike endorsed the ban.
"I actually think it's a rational response," Pike said. "We have a huge issue with plastics in our environment."
Moore expressed scorn for the new law.
"I guess the real question is, what law do they pass tomorrow?" he said.
Linville also disapproved.
"This ordinance does not appear to be enforceable," she said, adding that she would prefer an education approach that encourages shoppers and businesses to do the right thing. She also suggested that city officials concentrate on more weighty issues.
Council candidate Lehman said that while there may be far more pressing issues for the city to confront, she supports the new law.
Buchanan, who voted for the measure, said he had initial misgivings that evaporated when some local retailers expressed support for the plastic bag ban.
Fleetwood, the driving force behind the adoption of the ordinance, confronted the issue head-on.
"We live in a country of enormous personal freedoms and liberties," Fleetwood said. "We don't, however, have the right to do harm. ... They (plastic bags) kill wildlife. It's a scourge. It's easy to change that with the simplest of changes in behavior."
Farr, his opponent, sent a mixed message.
"I am opposed to things happening that take away my rights," Farr said. "I would much rather educate than legislate." But he added, "I don't think it's a bad law."
Pike endorsed the ban.
"I actually think it's a rational response," Pike said. "We have a huge issue with plastics in our environment."
Moore expressed scorn for the new law.
"I guess the real question is, what law do they pass tomorrow?" he said.
Linville also disapproved.
"This ordinance does not appear to be enforceable," she said, adding that she would prefer an education approach that encourages shoppers and businesses to do the right thing. She also suggested that city officials concentrate on more weighty issues.
Council candidate Lehman said that while there may be far more pressing issues for the city to confront, she supports the new law.
Buchanan, who voted for the measure, said he had initial misgivings that evaporated when some local retailers expressed support for the plastic bag ban.
Bagging dog doo-doo just got tremendously cheaper
Bagging dog doo-doo just got tremendously cheaper in Nanaimo thanks to an opportunity to advertise on disposable dog-waste bags.
The city partnered with a private company in a deal that will nearly triple the number of dog-waste bag dispensers in dog-friendly parks. The agreement will outright eliminate the annual $25,000 bill for buying disposable bags.
Enviro-Smart Biodegradable Products will sell the city 60 new bag dispensers at a cost of about $6,000, but the company will take on the annual costs of supplying the bags. In return, Enviro-Smart can generate money by selling advertising space on the dispensers and bags. Such space could be ideal for dog daycare centres and pet supply stores.
Nanaimo's parks commission had considered raising dog licence fees to help pay for such services, but the public opposed this tactic simply because not everyone uses the service. Coun. Fred Pattje did not agree with selling advertising on doo-doo bags, but eventually he came to agree with his fellow parks commission members.
"We see this arrangement as a win all around as it allows us to redirect some maintenance funds to other worthwhile projects," said Coun. Fred Pattje. "It will increase the level of service for dog owners, help reduce the risk to the public by increasing the availability of options for proper disposal of pet waste, and organizations that purchase sponsorship space get a chance to sponsor an important community service."
The new dispensers hold more bags than the current ones, which will require less maintenance from city staff.
Nanaimo has 35 bag dispensers and purchases about 500,000 bags a year. An increased number of bags will better service approximately 10,000 dogs that live in the city.
The city partnered with a private company in a deal that will nearly triple the number of dog-waste bag dispensers in dog-friendly parks. The agreement will outright eliminate the annual $25,000 bill for buying disposable bags.
Enviro-Smart Biodegradable Products will sell the city 60 new bag dispensers at a cost of about $6,000, but the company will take on the annual costs of supplying the bags. In return, Enviro-Smart can generate money by selling advertising space on the dispensers and bags. Such space could be ideal for dog daycare centres and pet supply stores.
Nanaimo's parks commission had considered raising dog licence fees to help pay for such services, but the public opposed this tactic simply because not everyone uses the service. Coun. Fred Pattje did not agree with selling advertising on doo-doo bags, but eventually he came to agree with his fellow parks commission members.
"We see this arrangement as a win all around as it allows us to redirect some maintenance funds to other worthwhile projects," said Coun. Fred Pattje. "It will increase the level of service for dog owners, help reduce the risk to the public by increasing the availability of options for proper disposal of pet waste, and organizations that purchase sponsorship space get a chance to sponsor an important community service."
The new dispensers hold more bags than the current ones, which will require less maintenance from city staff.
Nanaimo has 35 bag dispensers and purchases about 500,000 bags a year. An increased number of bags will better service approximately 10,000 dogs that live in the city.
2011年7月11日星期一
I have been on the other end of the loud mouthing
I have been on the other end of the loud mouthing and know how it feels. One such time is listening to the fellow who shoots groundhogs at 1,500 yards and almost never misses. I doubt if he knows 1,500 yards when he sees it.
We were on a groundhog hunt for the Pennsylvania Game Commission some years ago. The commission was checking hogs for deer ticks and wanted samples from various areas. We had to quickly bag them and seal the bag.
It was on this one-day hunt when we bumped into a friend and explained what we were doing. He quickly explained that since it was important to get samples, we should take his brother with us because he never misses.
I raised an eyebrow and said, "He never misses?"
Guess what? We spotted an animal at about 300 yards and guess who missed? Well that was an exception. Next groundhog? He missed again. What part of never did his brother not understand?
Another fellow, teller of tall tales, was in a discussion about turkey hunting. He had listened impatiently while a novice related that he didn't think turkeys were real birds. Those gobbles came from a bug that hid under the forest leaves. Of course, he was speaking out of frustration for he had heard plenty of gobbles but saw nary a bird.
Now the famous teller of tall tales couldn't keep quiet any longer. He told how just a few days ago he had driven his truck up a farmer's lane and parked in a secluded spot. Naturally, he allowed things to quiet down a bit and leaned out the window of his Chevy half-ton and gave a few mouth calls. It only took a minute until three gobblers showed up. They were so excited, he had to close the truck window to keep them from climbing inside.
That man can call turkeys. I busted up laughing, but suddenly realized the man was serious.
I guess I am not the only big-mouth story teller, or, for that matter, the only hunter shooter out there with hoof in mouth disease. That's terminal if your born with your foot in your mouth; it will remain there until you die.
We were on a groundhog hunt for the Pennsylvania Game Commission some years ago. The commission was checking hogs for deer ticks and wanted samples from various areas. We had to quickly bag them and seal the bag.
It was on this one-day hunt when we bumped into a friend and explained what we were doing. He quickly explained that since it was important to get samples, we should take his brother with us because he never misses.
I raised an eyebrow and said, "He never misses?"
Guess what? We spotted an animal at about 300 yards and guess who missed? Well that was an exception. Next groundhog? He missed again. What part of never did his brother not understand?
Another fellow, teller of tall tales, was in a discussion about turkey hunting. He had listened impatiently while a novice related that he didn't think turkeys were real birds. Those gobbles came from a bug that hid under the forest leaves. Of course, he was speaking out of frustration for he had heard plenty of gobbles but saw nary a bird.
Now the famous teller of tall tales couldn't keep quiet any longer. He told how just a few days ago he had driven his truck up a farmer's lane and parked in a secluded spot. Naturally, he allowed things to quiet down a bit and leaned out the window of his Chevy half-ton and gave a few mouth calls. It only took a minute until three gobblers showed up. They were so excited, he had to close the truck window to keep them from climbing inside.
That man can call turkeys. I busted up laughing, but suddenly realized the man was serious.
I guess I am not the only big-mouth story teller, or, for that matter, the only hunter shooter out there with hoof in mouth disease. That's terminal if your born with your foot in your mouth; it will remain there until you die.
Everyone should make an attempt to modify
Everyone should make an attempt to modify, transform, enrich and reconstruct morals and ethics in the American political sphere. We should respect the unborn and the living.
One should acknowledge God as the creator of all and appeal to him for help in protecting all he graciously has given us. With all these gifts comes the right to use them justly. Hence, all such rights are the gifts of God as affirmed in our Declaration of Independence. These include the right to life and liberty.
We are to rule the world in holiness and righteousness, and pronounce judgment in integrity of heart and soul. Liberty includes the right to use and claim as an individual possession any unclaimed thing received from the hand of God. This right to any possession includes its entire use, that is, its exchange, control, protection and entire disposition. And the first and greatest of these possessions is our life.
Man is the only creature made in God’s image and likeness; all men have an equal duty to love themselves and others to honor that image of the God they are commanded to love. To obliterate that image by unjustly taking a life is the highest crime that one may do to another. To take a life justly is the most somber obligation God ever imposes.
God created man with two great dimensions, individual and social. In so doing, he gave us the right to associate with each other, to take advantage of our rights and to fulfill our duties.
God has imposed on men a duty to associate in governments to put a justified fear into the hearts of evildoers – yes, into the degenerate and reprobate mind. These duties are given for the good of all, but not to deprive any of the rights they are designed to protect. Governments should never commit the crimes they are created to prevent!
The Constitution’s willful distortion has led to the violation of our Tenth Amendment guaranteed right to limited government, which inevitably requires oppressive taxation. Its faithful application will lift that awful burden.
One should acknowledge God as the creator of all and appeal to him for help in protecting all he graciously has given us. With all these gifts comes the right to use them justly. Hence, all such rights are the gifts of God as affirmed in our Declaration of Independence. These include the right to life and liberty.
We are to rule the world in holiness and righteousness, and pronounce judgment in integrity of heart and soul. Liberty includes the right to use and claim as an individual possession any unclaimed thing received from the hand of God. This right to any possession includes its entire use, that is, its exchange, control, protection and entire disposition. And the first and greatest of these possessions is our life.
Man is the only creature made in God’s image and likeness; all men have an equal duty to love themselves and others to honor that image of the God they are commanded to love. To obliterate that image by unjustly taking a life is the highest crime that one may do to another. To take a life justly is the most somber obligation God ever imposes.
God created man with two great dimensions, individual and social. In so doing, he gave us the right to associate with each other, to take advantage of our rights and to fulfill our duties.
God has imposed on men a duty to associate in governments to put a justified fear into the hearts of evildoers – yes, into the degenerate and reprobate mind. These duties are given for the good of all, but not to deprive any of the rights they are designed to protect. Governments should never commit the crimes they are created to prevent!
The Constitution’s willful distortion has led to the violation of our Tenth Amendment guaranteed right to limited government, which inevitably requires oppressive taxation. Its faithful application will lift that awful burden.
2011年7月7日星期四
Sky Power Solutions Corp. (SPOW) to Unveil Advanced Solar Power Generation System
Sky Power Solutions, Corp., an emerging leader in the development and marketing of next generation lithium-powered batteries worldwide, and a leading developer of residential concentrated solar collector power systems, today announced it will unveil its standalone residential solar generation system during SOLAR INTERNATIONAL 2011 at the Dallas Convention Center in Dallas, Texas October 17 – 20, 2011.
Solar Power International (SPI) is recognized as North America's largest, most comprehensive solar power trade show and conference. This annual, business-to-business event was the first of its kind in North America and grows bigger and better every year. Approximately 24,000 professionals from 125+ countries attend. This year, more than 1,100 companies from all vertical markets in the solar power spectrum will exhibit in a space of more than 1 million gross square feet.
Sky Power will display a working prototype of the Sky Power Solutions, Residential, Standalone, Solar Concentrating, Electric Power Generation system in Hall "F" of the Dallas Convention Center and will be available for questions during the event.
The Sky Power Solutions residential solar power station will be capable of reducing the average user's monthly electric grid consumption by up to 30-40% with no emissions and a zero carbon footprint. Visually appealing, the Sky Power Solutions system can easily be installed in most backyards taking less than one third of the space of conventional Solar panels. The entry level price point for a Sky Power Solutions-Concentrated Solar electric system is expected to be $5,000 at release.
Electric consumption in the United States is increasing at a rate that will outpace the anticipated expansion of the US Electric Grid's capacity and Sky Power Solutions has identified this and is poised for expansion into the Residential Electric Power Generation market to allow end users to generate and return 30-40% of their electric usage back to the grid using "Net-Metering" and the Sky Power System.
Solar Power International (SPI) is recognized as North America's largest, most comprehensive solar power trade show and conference. This annual, business-to-business event was the first of its kind in North America and grows bigger and better every year. Approximately 24,000 professionals from 125+ countries attend. This year, more than 1,100 companies from all vertical markets in the solar power spectrum will exhibit in a space of more than 1 million gross square feet.
Sky Power will display a working prototype of the Sky Power Solutions, Residential, Standalone, Solar Concentrating, Electric Power Generation system in Hall "F" of the Dallas Convention Center and will be available for questions during the event.
The Sky Power Solutions residential solar power station will be capable of reducing the average user's monthly electric grid consumption by up to 30-40% with no emissions and a zero carbon footprint. Visually appealing, the Sky Power Solutions system can easily be installed in most backyards taking less than one third of the space of conventional Solar panels. The entry level price point for a Sky Power Solutions-Concentrated Solar electric system is expected to be $5,000 at release.
Electric consumption in the United States is increasing at a rate that will outpace the anticipated expansion of the US Electric Grid's capacity and Sky Power Solutions has identified this and is poised for expansion into the Residential Electric Power Generation market to allow end users to generate and return 30-40% of their electric usage back to the grid using "Net-Metering" and the Sky Power System.
New Southwest Factories to Make Advanced Solar Panels
A large solar panel sits atop a 22-foot tower at the University of California, San Diego, tilted toward the sun on a late spring morning. It appears similar to others in this beach city, but some say it will revolutionize the solar business.
The panel at the school makes two to three times as much electricity as a similar-sized conventional solar, said Soitec, the France-based manufacturer. Lenses on the surface focus sunlight onto solar cells while a tracking system shifts the panel every 10 seconds to always face the sun.
"From the moment the sun comes up over the horizon in the morning, our tracker is focused on it and remains focused on it throughout the day," said Mike Armstrong, Soitec's head of U.S. business development.
"At the end of the day as the sun goes down," Armstrong added, "it will come all the way back to the eastern horizon and wait precisely where the sun will rise the next morning."
Soitec's panel uses a technology known as concentrated photovoltaics, or CPV. The company, which calls its Concentrix CPV panels an important advance in green energy, recently announced it would manufacture the panels in San Diego County and sell them to developers in the southwestern United States.
That comes after fellow CPV maker Amonix Inc. in May opened an $18 million factory in north Las Vegas, built with the help of a $5.9 million investment tax credit from the 2009 stimulus legislation.
The moves could provide an important test of whether CPV represents a real advance, analysts said. The technology has existed for several years but so far has not resulted in a market shift.
"There are a lot of companies that have tried to do it, but no one has really broken through and been able to be a major producer," said Ken Zweibel, director of the GW Solar Institute at George Washington University. It is not yet possible to determine whether the technology is a significant advancement, he said, because "nobody has enough data in the marketplace."
The panel at the school makes two to three times as much electricity as a similar-sized conventional solar, said Soitec, the France-based manufacturer. Lenses on the surface focus sunlight onto solar cells while a tracking system shifts the panel every 10 seconds to always face the sun.
"From the moment the sun comes up over the horizon in the morning, our tracker is focused on it and remains focused on it throughout the day," said Mike Armstrong, Soitec's head of U.S. business development.
"At the end of the day as the sun goes down," Armstrong added, "it will come all the way back to the eastern horizon and wait precisely where the sun will rise the next morning."
Soitec's panel uses a technology known as concentrated photovoltaics, or CPV. The company, which calls its Concentrix CPV panels an important advance in green energy, recently announced it would manufacture the panels in San Diego County and sell them to developers in the southwestern United States.
That comes after fellow CPV maker Amonix Inc. in May opened an $18 million factory in north Las Vegas, built with the help of a $5.9 million investment tax credit from the 2009 stimulus legislation.
The moves could provide an important test of whether CPV represents a real advance, analysts said. The technology has existed for several years but so far has not resulted in a market shift.
"There are a lot of companies that have tried to do it, but no one has really broken through and been able to be a major producer," said Ken Zweibel, director of the GW Solar Institute at George Washington University. It is not yet possible to determine whether the technology is a significant advancement, he said, because "nobody has enough data in the marketplace."
2011年7月6日星期三
Why Andre Iguodala's Days with Philadelphia 76ers Are Numbered
How long before Philadelphia 76ers fans say bye-bye to Andre Iguodala? It won't be until the lockout is over—if then—and the shutdown could bubble over into next year.
For now, Iguodala remains a Sixer, but his days could be numbered. Several factors could determine whether or not a deal goes down involving Philly's most active A.I.
The way Andre probably feels, some (insert Eminem's chorus in the song Forgot About Dre) people in the City of (supposed) Brotherly Love forgot about him. Those people could be the reason Dre isn't getting any sleep.
Don't sleep on this countdown. Join me for the entertaining an educational experience of your natural born lives, brothers and sisters. You know the routine...Roll Dr. Dre/Eminem's audio and the (insert your own expletive since I don't cuss) graphics...
For now, Iguodala remains a Sixer, but his days could be numbered. Several factors could determine whether or not a deal goes down involving Philly's most active A.I.
The way Andre probably feels, some (insert Eminem's chorus in the song Forgot About Dre) people in the City of (supposed) Brotherly Love forgot about him. Those people could be the reason Dre isn't getting any sleep.
Don't sleep on this countdown. Join me for the entertaining an educational experience of your natural born lives, brothers and sisters. You know the routine...Roll Dr. Dre/Eminem's audio and the (insert your own expletive since I don't cuss) graphics...
20 things to do on the midcoast this summer
We at the Midcoast Beacon have compiled — admittedly abridged — a list of low-or-no-cost, family-friendly things to do this summer in our area.
1. Boat. In Rockland, Station Maine on Mechanic Street offers free rowing to adults. The next date is 6 a.m. Thursday, July 7. Station Maine can be reached at 691-2037. Belfast’s Come Boating offers free rowing at 6 a.m., 9 a.m., 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., Tuesdays; 7 and 8 a.m. Saturdays and various other times.
. Visit Camden Hills State Park. For $3 a head, you can hike Mount Megunticook or Mount Battie, or you can drive up Mount Battie. At the top is a castle and amazing views of Camden Harbor. If you hike Megunticook, bring a kite and a lunch. The state park has water, electric and dumping capabilities for RVs.
3. Tour local lighthouses. Rockland Breakwater Light is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. weekends through Columbus Day. Owls Head State Park is open throughout the summer and Port Clyde’s Marshall Point Lighthouse gift shop is open 1-5 p.m. Sunday through Friday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays through the fall. Marshall Point Lighthouse is an ideal place for a picnic, which brings us to our next point …
4. Take a picnic and head to the seaside for lunch. In Rockland, stop at the Buoy Park, and in Rockport, the Marine Park — both give views of schooners. In Lincolnville, drop your blanket on Lincolnville Beach.
5. Pop in at the Farnsworth. For Rockland residents museum admission is free. Currently, the museum has black and white shots of places in Maine, beautiful Wyeth paintings and even an Andy Warhol sketch or two. The Farnsworth also has the most comfortable reading chair in the whole world in its library on the main floor.
6. Surf — the Maine way. Thorfinn Expeditions in Rockland gives “paddle boarding” lessons on a pond at the Camden Snow Bowl. As far as we understand, they give you a long, floating board and you stand on top of it and paddle along the pond.
7. Join a roller derby league. A new all-women roller derby league started in Rockland last winter. It needs people to act as referees and volunteers.
1. Boat. In Rockland, Station Maine on Mechanic Street offers free rowing to adults. The next date is 6 a.m. Thursday, July 7. Station Maine can be reached at 691-2037. Belfast’s Come Boating offers free rowing at 6 a.m., 9 a.m., 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., Tuesdays; 7 and 8 a.m. Saturdays and various other times.
. Visit Camden Hills State Park. For $3 a head, you can hike Mount Megunticook or Mount Battie, or you can drive up Mount Battie. At the top is a castle and amazing views of Camden Harbor. If you hike Megunticook, bring a kite and a lunch. The state park has water, electric and dumping capabilities for RVs.
3. Tour local lighthouses. Rockland Breakwater Light is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. weekends through Columbus Day. Owls Head State Park is open throughout the summer and Port Clyde’s Marshall Point Lighthouse gift shop is open 1-5 p.m. Sunday through Friday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays through the fall. Marshall Point Lighthouse is an ideal place for a picnic, which brings us to our next point …
4. Take a picnic and head to the seaside for lunch. In Rockland, stop at the Buoy Park, and in Rockport, the Marine Park — both give views of schooners. In Lincolnville, drop your blanket on Lincolnville Beach.
5. Pop in at the Farnsworth. For Rockland residents museum admission is free. Currently, the museum has black and white shots of places in Maine, beautiful Wyeth paintings and even an Andy Warhol sketch or two. The Farnsworth also has the most comfortable reading chair in the whole world in its library on the main floor.
6. Surf — the Maine way. Thorfinn Expeditions in Rockland gives “paddle boarding” lessons on a pond at the Camden Snow Bowl. As far as we understand, they give you a long, floating board and you stand on top of it and paddle along the pond.
7. Join a roller derby league. A new all-women roller derby league started in Rockland last winter. It needs people to act as referees and volunteers.
2011年6月30日星期四
Bradley Monical took the stand
Bradley Monical took the stand in his own defense Wednesday, the second day of his jury trial for the April 29 robbery of Sterling Savings Bank. Testimony concluded Wednesday afternoon and the case went to the jury. A verdict could be returned today.
Witnesses testified Tuesday and Wednesday that a man in a red coat robbed the bank at gunpoint, then left the building. A bank employee followed the robber, lost sight of him behind the Coos Art Museum for roughly 15 seconds, and saw Monical, dressed in black, emerge on the other side.
"A guy ran smack into me, I fell on my butt," Monical testified. "He drops the bag and it fell immediately on my lap."
Monical said he was in town the afternoon of April 29 to purchase medical marijuana with his cousin, Tucker White.
While White made the purchase, Monical killed time in downtown Coos Bay. He was on his way back to meet his cousin in a parking lot near the bank when a man in red ran into him.
Monical examined the strange bag in his lap long enough to see the large quantity of money inside, he testified.
He said he mistakenly thought the man was running from a drug bust, possibly for the transaction his cousin was participating in.
"In the background I heard sirens," Monical testified. "I was freaked out. I put the bag around my neck."
Then he tucked it under his coat and zipped the coat up.
A police officer, with an updated description from the bank employee who tailed the robber, arrested Monical on the corner of South Second Street and Anderson Avenue at gunpoint.
"I was thinking, ‘Oh f-, what is going on?'" Monical's eyes filled with tears.
"Do you always wear pantyhose around your neck?" Deputy District Attorney Erika Soublet asked Monical on the cross-examination.
Tuesday, Coos Bay police officer Ken Labrousse, who arrested Monical, testified that Monical had the top of a pair of beige pantyhose around his neck with eye slits cut in them. Labrousse took a picture of the pantyhose, taunt around Monical's neck, shortly after arresting him. Witnesses said the robber wore a beige mask.
Witnesses testified Tuesday and Wednesday that a man in a red coat robbed the bank at gunpoint, then left the building. A bank employee followed the robber, lost sight of him behind the Coos Art Museum for roughly 15 seconds, and saw Monical, dressed in black, emerge on the other side.
"A guy ran smack into me, I fell on my butt," Monical testified. "He drops the bag and it fell immediately on my lap."
Monical said he was in town the afternoon of April 29 to purchase medical marijuana with his cousin, Tucker White.
While White made the purchase, Monical killed time in downtown Coos Bay. He was on his way back to meet his cousin in a parking lot near the bank when a man in red ran into him.
Monical examined the strange bag in his lap long enough to see the large quantity of money inside, he testified.
He said he mistakenly thought the man was running from a drug bust, possibly for the transaction his cousin was participating in.
"In the background I heard sirens," Monical testified. "I was freaked out. I put the bag around my neck."
Then he tucked it under his coat and zipped the coat up.
A police officer, with an updated description from the bank employee who tailed the robber, arrested Monical on the corner of South Second Street and Anderson Avenue at gunpoint.
"I was thinking, ‘Oh f-, what is going on?'" Monical's eyes filled with tears.
"Do you always wear pantyhose around your neck?" Deputy District Attorney Erika Soublet asked Monical on the cross-examination.
Tuesday, Coos Bay police officer Ken Labrousse, who arrested Monical, testified that Monical had the top of a pair of beige pantyhose around his neck with eye slits cut in them. Labrousse took a picture of the pantyhose, taunt around Monical's neck, shortly after arresting him. Witnesses said the robber wore a beige mask.
Never did Cox look so smart
Never did Cox look so smart after the throw from right fielder Seth Smith skipped past catcher Chris Iannetta that enabled Quentin to score the go-ahead in the top of the ninth to give the Sox a 3-2 victory over the Rockies.
"Believe me, there was a little question about it," Cox said after the Sox (39-42) snapped a two-game losing streak to cut their deficit to four games in the AL Central race. "(Smith) was coming in, he was going to his left, he's a left-handed thrower and he's going to have to take a split second to get his feet right.
"Shoot, it's the ninth inning and that makes the second out, so let's make it happen and hopefully the throw is offline a tad. And the more you practice, the luckier you get."
There was plenty of uncertainty after Mark Buehrle's 2-0 lead vanished on home runs by Jason Giambi and Ty Wigginton in the sixth and seventh innings, and then the Sox needed second baseman Gordon Beckham to quickly start a double play with the bases loaded to get out of a jam in the eighth.
There were signs of desperation as early as the third, when the Sox brought the infield in after Gonzalez hit a triple with one out. The move paid off as shortstop Alexei Ramirez fielded Jonathan Herrera's hard grounder on his knee to prevent Gonzalez from scoring and getting the out at first.
Quentin led off the ninth with a single off Huston Street and advanced to third on Paul Konerko's single. Ramirez struck out to bring up Pierzynski, who leads the Sox with 14 double plays.
"I came off (the third-base bag)," said Quentin, who would have been nailed by at least 20 feet had Iannetta fielded the ball cleanly."It looked like it might flare in and drop. I was slowly going back to the bag, so I was near the bag. (Cox) told me late, but I was able to get back to the bag and go."
The breaks evened out for the Sox after Buehrle doubled but was picked off second and then committed his first error since Sept. 13, 2009, against the Angels — snapping a streak of 51 consecutive errorless starts.
"Believe me, there was a little question about it," Cox said after the Sox (39-42) snapped a two-game losing streak to cut their deficit to four games in the AL Central race. "(Smith) was coming in, he was going to his left, he's a left-handed thrower and he's going to have to take a split second to get his feet right.
"Shoot, it's the ninth inning and that makes the second out, so let's make it happen and hopefully the throw is offline a tad. And the more you practice, the luckier you get."
There was plenty of uncertainty after Mark Buehrle's 2-0 lead vanished on home runs by Jason Giambi and Ty Wigginton in the sixth and seventh innings, and then the Sox needed second baseman Gordon Beckham to quickly start a double play with the bases loaded to get out of a jam in the eighth.
There were signs of desperation as early as the third, when the Sox brought the infield in after Gonzalez hit a triple with one out. The move paid off as shortstop Alexei Ramirez fielded Jonathan Herrera's hard grounder on his knee to prevent Gonzalez from scoring and getting the out at first.
Quentin led off the ninth with a single off Huston Street and advanced to third on Paul Konerko's single. Ramirez struck out to bring up Pierzynski, who leads the Sox with 14 double plays.
"I came off (the third-base bag)," said Quentin, who would have been nailed by at least 20 feet had Iannetta fielded the ball cleanly."It looked like it might flare in and drop. I was slowly going back to the bag, so I was near the bag. (Cox) told me late, but I was able to get back to the bag and go."
The breaks evened out for the Sox after Buehrle doubled but was picked off second and then committed his first error since Sept. 13, 2009, against the Angels — snapping a streak of 51 consecutive errorless starts.
2011年6月28日星期二
The 2011-12 early season frameworks
The 2011-12 early season frameworks, which cover migratory bird hunting seasons opening before Oct. 1, continue allowing a 16-day teal-only season when estimated breeding population of blue-winged teal is 4.7 million birds or more. A nine-day season is allowed when bluewing populations are below 4.7 million.
Preliminary estimates from the annual breeding population survey conducted during May and June on major duck nesting areas of the north-central United States and south-central Canada pegs this year's bluewing population at 8.9 million birds.
That's the highest blue-wing breeding population estimate since the standardized surveys began in 1955. The previous high was 7.4 million in 2000.
TPWD earlier this year proposed Sept. 10-25 as teal season dates statewide, if a 16-day season was allowed.
Also, Texas this year plans to take advantage of federal frameworks allowing an early hunting season aimed at reducing populations of resident, feral Canada geese.
As has happened in other states, Texas is seeing introduced flocks of Canada geese expand their range and populations, mostly in urban areas where the large, feral waterfowl have become pests, damaging vegetation, fouling landscapes and otherwise causing problems.
The majority of these "resident" flocks of Canada geese are in North Texas, mostly along the Red River but also with growing numbers in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Henderson County in northeast Texas holds the state's largest flock of resident Canadas, with some estimates of as many as 15,000 of the big birds in that county.
TPWD plans to allow its first early season Canada goose season this year, with the season set to run concurrent with the teal season.
Preliminary estimates from the annual breeding population survey conducted during May and June on major duck nesting areas of the north-central United States and south-central Canada pegs this year's bluewing population at 8.9 million birds.
That's the highest blue-wing breeding population estimate since the standardized surveys began in 1955. The previous high was 7.4 million in 2000.
TPWD earlier this year proposed Sept. 10-25 as teal season dates statewide, if a 16-day season was allowed.
Also, Texas this year plans to take advantage of federal frameworks allowing an early hunting season aimed at reducing populations of resident, feral Canada geese.
As has happened in other states, Texas is seeing introduced flocks of Canada geese expand their range and populations, mostly in urban areas where the large, feral waterfowl have become pests, damaging vegetation, fouling landscapes and otherwise causing problems.
The majority of these "resident" flocks of Canada geese are in North Texas, mostly along the Red River but also with growing numbers in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Henderson County in northeast Texas holds the state's largest flock of resident Canadas, with some estimates of as many as 15,000 of the big birds in that county.
TPWD plans to allow its first early season Canada goose season this year, with the season set to run concurrent with the teal season.
The committee's refusal to modify the dove
The committee's refusal to modify the dove season frameworks comes just two years after Texas successfully pushed to get federal approval of the current rules.
For decades, federal frameworks allowed opening of the South Zone dove season no earlier than Sept. 20, nearly three weeks after the Sept. 1 opening date allowed in the rest of the state.
The late opening was designed to delay hunting in the region until almost all dove nestlings had fledged. South Texas can see late nesting efforts that have young doves still in the nest into early September.
At the direction of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in the 1990s implemented a policy of opening the South Zone dove season on the first Friday following Sept. 20 if Sept. 20 fell on a weekday other than Friday. The move was aimed at providing an extended "opening weekend" in the South Zone, which holds some of the state's best dove hunting, drawing many of the state's 300,000 dove hunters and pumping millions of dollars into the region's economy.
But that meant some opening days could fall as late as Sept. 24. Such late openings drew fewer hunters. Also, the later the opening date, the higher the odds that heavy rains from a tropical storm or hurricane or an early season cool front could push birds out of the area, negatively impacting hunting.
In 2009, at Texas' urging, federal regulators approved rules allowing opening of dove season in Texas South Zone on the Friday nearest Sept. 20 but no earlier than Sept. 17.
But proponents of the change didn't take into consideration that in some years, that opening date would fall as late as Sept. 23 — as it does this year.
TPWD officials this year pushed a proposal to change frameworks to allow the South Zone to open on the third Friday of September, no matter what date that Friday fell. This year, it would have allowed the season to open Sept. 16.
Biological impact of the change would be minor, if any, proponents argued.
But federal migratory bird managers declined to recommend the change to the regulations committee.
"Yes, I'm upset - to say the least," Dave Morrison, TPWD director of small-game programs, said of the decision. "It was a minor change that had good support from the Central Flyway Council."
For decades, federal frameworks allowed opening of the South Zone dove season no earlier than Sept. 20, nearly three weeks after the Sept. 1 opening date allowed in the rest of the state.
The late opening was designed to delay hunting in the region until almost all dove nestlings had fledged. South Texas can see late nesting efforts that have young doves still in the nest into early September.
At the direction of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in the 1990s implemented a policy of opening the South Zone dove season on the first Friday following Sept. 20 if Sept. 20 fell on a weekday other than Friday. The move was aimed at providing an extended "opening weekend" in the South Zone, which holds some of the state's best dove hunting, drawing many of the state's 300,000 dove hunters and pumping millions of dollars into the region's economy.
But that meant some opening days could fall as late as Sept. 24. Such late openings drew fewer hunters. Also, the later the opening date, the higher the odds that heavy rains from a tropical storm or hurricane or an early season cool front could push birds out of the area, negatively impacting hunting.
In 2009, at Texas' urging, federal regulators approved rules allowing opening of dove season in Texas South Zone on the Friday nearest Sept. 20 but no earlier than Sept. 17.
But proponents of the change didn't take into consideration that in some years, that opening date would fall as late as Sept. 23 — as it does this year.
TPWD officials this year pushed a proposal to change frameworks to allow the South Zone to open on the third Friday of September, no matter what date that Friday fell. This year, it would have allowed the season to open Sept. 16.
Biological impact of the change would be minor, if any, proponents argued.
But federal migratory bird managers declined to recommend the change to the regulations committee.
"Yes, I'm upset - to say the least," Dave Morrison, TPWD director of small-game programs, said of the decision. "It was a minor change that had good support from the Central Flyway Council."
Grocery chain Trader
Grocery chain Trader Joe's even offers a small discount for customers who use their own reusable bags, and some cities, including Long Beach, are enacting laws to restrict or eliminate plastic bags altogether.
So far, Lopez's design has gained a respectable following, though market officials wouldn't reveal if Lopez has gained the most votes to date.
The winner will be announced July 26.
"Lopez's design stood out to us as being original, creative and a great representation of what Fresh & Easy means to him," said Roberto Munoz, Fresh & Easy's director of neighborhood affairs.
Lopez, a 2007 graduate of Cal State Fullerton with a bachelor's degree in communications, said he would like to use any potential winnings to help feed his large, extended family, spouse and friends.
"I love Fresh & Easy and have been shopping there since they opened up in Long Beach (a few years ago)," Lopez said. "A year's worth of groceries. I could supply all the food for our family barbecues, fill our refrigerator to overflowing. It would save us a fortune...and it would be personally fulfilling seeing that design on those bags everywhere."
El Segundo-based Fresh & Easy has become one of North America's fastest-growing grocery chains since opening its first store in 2007.
It operates two shops in Long Beach, one in Signal Hill and more than 170 across California, Nevada and Arizona, with dozens more expected to open in the next few years.
The reusable bags will be available at all Fresh & Easy markets beginning in August, starting at 99 cents.
Customers who have signed into the market's website can vote on the finalists' designs through July 10.
So far, Lopez's design has gained a respectable following, though market officials wouldn't reveal if Lopez has gained the most votes to date.
The winner will be announced July 26.
"Lopez's design stood out to us as being original, creative and a great representation of what Fresh & Easy means to him," said Roberto Munoz, Fresh & Easy's director of neighborhood affairs.
Lopez, a 2007 graduate of Cal State Fullerton with a bachelor's degree in communications, said he would like to use any potential winnings to help feed his large, extended family, spouse and friends.
"I love Fresh & Easy and have been shopping there since they opened up in Long Beach (a few years ago)," Lopez said. "A year's worth of groceries. I could supply all the food for our family barbecues, fill our refrigerator to overflowing. It would save us a fortune...and it would be personally fulfilling seeing that design on those bags everywhere."
El Segundo-based Fresh & Easy has become one of North America's fastest-growing grocery chains since opening its first store in 2007.
It operates two shops in Long Beach, one in Signal Hill and more than 170 across California, Nevada and Arizona, with dozens more expected to open in the next few years.
The reusable bags will be available at all Fresh & Easy markets beginning in August, starting at 99 cents.
Customers who have signed into the market's website can vote on the finalists' designs through July 10.
2011年6月23日星期四
A number of bio-plastic alternatives
A number of bio-plastic alternatives are gaining traction elsewhere, with versions made from renewable and sustainable corn, soy or jute. The technology, higher price and end result is far from where the industry wants it to be but opposed to bags produced using fossil fuels, they cut down on greenhouse gas emissions when they degrade, are recyclable and compostable.
The UAE's oxo-degradable choice, however, still uses conventional plastic made from petroleum-based polymers. The additives, usually metals, help it degrade faster - to carbon dioxide and water - when exposed to light and oxygen.
As of last year, all of the oxo-degradable bags in the UAE now need to be certified by the Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (Esma) to make sure they are safe for both the public and the environment. Esma has approved two additives - Reverte and D2W - for use in this process in the UAE and has applied rigorous standards to any company approved to produce the bags - including requiring labels indicating they are oxo-degradable.
The thing is, the perception from a "degradable" label on plastic is that over a period of time, it will disappear into nothing. This is where concerned consumers need to pay better attention and form their own opinions - because the available science, experts say, does not always back up the claim.
The companies that make these bags say they have independent lab tests that prove "biodegradation". Yet a study conducted in 2010 by scientists at Loughborough University in the UK for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on the life cycle of the oxo-degradable varieties indicated otherwise.
The UAE's oxo-degradable choice, however, still uses conventional plastic made from petroleum-based polymers. The additives, usually metals, help it degrade faster - to carbon dioxide and water - when exposed to light and oxygen.
As of last year, all of the oxo-degradable bags in the UAE now need to be certified by the Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (Esma) to make sure they are safe for both the public and the environment. Esma has approved two additives - Reverte and D2W - for use in this process in the UAE and has applied rigorous standards to any company approved to produce the bags - including requiring labels indicating they are oxo-degradable.
The thing is, the perception from a "degradable" label on plastic is that over a period of time, it will disappear into nothing. This is where concerned consumers need to pay better attention and form their own opinions - because the available science, experts say, does not always back up the claim.
The companies that make these bags say they have independent lab tests that prove "biodegradation". Yet a study conducted in 2010 by scientists at Loughborough University in the UK for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on the life cycle of the oxo-degradable varieties indicated otherwise.
Elementary student Josh Whalen vividly
Elementary student Josh Whalen vividly remembers the moment he received a backpack through the local food bank’s Backpacks for Bookworms program.
He recalls exploring its pockets, which were “loaded” with school supplies during the bus ride home. It was like Christmas in backpack.
“We didn’t have enough money to get a backpack,” he said. “It felt pretty good that I would actually have a backpack.”
Not only can the Grade 6 Coronation Street Public School student appreciate the goodwill of those who have donated to the Cambridge Self-Help Food Bank’s Backpacks for Bookworms initiative, he also now knows the meaning of giving back to the program.
Whalen and his class recently put their heads together to come up with a way to raise money to support the program and students whose family budgets don’t allow for the back-to-school shopping sprees enjoyed by most. The students did everything from hold bake sales and raffles to raise hundreds of dollars, enough to buy six backpacks brimming with supplies. The total cost was about $250.
It was an effort that students, including Karel Peters, hopes will create a domino effect of giving.
“Maybe through our actions, they would do the same,” she said.
The fundraiser was a joint effort with Chalmers Street Public School, affectionately known as a “sister school”. Coronation Street Grade 6 teacher Jackee Berry’s sister Denielle Berry’s Grade 4 class also held fundraisers to purchase backpacks and supplies.
“Together we raised almost $800, which is unbelieveable,” said Jackee. “We didn’t think we would be able to raise that much money.”
He recalls exploring its pockets, which were “loaded” with school supplies during the bus ride home. It was like Christmas in backpack.
“We didn’t have enough money to get a backpack,” he said. “It felt pretty good that I would actually have a backpack.”
Not only can the Grade 6 Coronation Street Public School student appreciate the goodwill of those who have donated to the Cambridge Self-Help Food Bank’s Backpacks for Bookworms initiative, he also now knows the meaning of giving back to the program.
Whalen and his class recently put their heads together to come up with a way to raise money to support the program and students whose family budgets don’t allow for the back-to-school shopping sprees enjoyed by most. The students did everything from hold bake sales and raffles to raise hundreds of dollars, enough to buy six backpacks brimming with supplies. The total cost was about $250.
It was an effort that students, including Karel Peters, hopes will create a domino effect of giving.
“Maybe through our actions, they would do the same,” she said.
The fundraiser was a joint effort with Chalmers Street Public School, affectionately known as a “sister school”. Coronation Street Grade 6 teacher Jackee Berry’s sister Denielle Berry’s Grade 4 class also held fundraisers to purchase backpacks and supplies.
“Together we raised almost $800, which is unbelieveable,” said Jackee. “We didn’t think we would be able to raise that much money.”
2011年6月20日星期一
Replica watches – an amazing quality at a reasonable price
Swiss watches are the great attributes to accentuate your success and social position. The outstanding quality and design make them famous all over the world and their popularity doesn't wink out as the years pass by.
But the authentic Swiss watches are rather costly as they are made with the use of precious stones and metals. This makes them almost unobtainable for the average people. But still there is the possibility for you to accede to these masterpieces. This possibility is to purchase the replica watches which are the excellent copies of the authentic Swiss watches.
A replica watch should not be confused with the fake watch as the first one is a perfect clone of the original while the second one doesn't usually comply with the genuine product. The Swiss replicas and the replicas UK that we are happy to offer you repeat every detail of the design. They impress by the exactitude of duplication which you can never feel with the fake watch.
Our store gives you a great possibility of ordering a high quality replica watch on-line without leaving your home. We offer you the men's and ladies' replica watches, designer replica watches, Swiss and UK replicas and other replica watches for sale. If you order your replica in our store you can be sure this is the best replica watch you may find. So there is no use in surfing the Net looking for cheap replicas that will certainly turn out to be the fake replica watches. Only here you can order the quality replica watch at a moderate price.
Our store provides the best Swiss replica watches in the UK. So don't even try to look for a better deal as you may find yourself with a low-quality replica fake watch having nothing in common with the authentic product.
We guarantee that every product you see in our store is a luxury replica, a precise and thorough copy watch of the worldwide recognized manufacturer. We don't sell replica fake watches nor designer fake watches and our suppliers never deal with this kind of products. So when you buy a replica watch in our store you get the best replica in UK.
But the authentic Swiss watches are rather costly as they are made with the use of precious stones and metals. This makes them almost unobtainable for the average people. But still there is the possibility for you to accede to these masterpieces. This possibility is to purchase the replica watches which are the excellent copies of the authentic Swiss watches.
A replica watch should not be confused with the fake watch as the first one is a perfect clone of the original while the second one doesn't usually comply with the genuine product. The Swiss replicas and the replicas UK that we are happy to offer you repeat every detail of the design. They impress by the exactitude of duplication which you can never feel with the fake watch.
Our store gives you a great possibility of ordering a high quality replica watch on-line without leaving your home. We offer you the men's and ladies' replica watches, designer replica watches, Swiss and UK replicas and other replica watches for sale. If you order your replica in our store you can be sure this is the best replica watch you may find. So there is no use in surfing the Net looking for cheap replicas that will certainly turn out to be the fake replica watches. Only here you can order the quality replica watch at a moderate price.
Our store provides the best Swiss replica watches in the UK. So don't even try to look for a better deal as you may find yourself with a low-quality replica fake watch having nothing in common with the authentic product.
We guarantee that every product you see in our store is a luxury replica, a precise and thorough copy watch of the worldwide recognized manufacturer. We don't sell replica fake watches nor designer fake watches and our suppliers never deal with this kind of products. So when you buy a replica watch in our store you get the best replica in UK.
Breitling is a brand of Swiss Luxury watches from Grenchen
Breitling is a brand of Swiss Luxury watches from Grenchen, Canton of Solothurn (first founded in Saint-Imier, Bernese Jura). Today, Breitling is still has companies located in La Chaux-de-Fonds, the town where where Leon Breitling opened his first chronograph factory 110 years ago. Originally, the watchmakers offered certified chronometers designed primarily for aviation use, though more frequently worn as high-quality luxury watches. Breitling watches offer aviation function, however, their chronograph functions have become more of status symbols than merely as practical tools. Typically, they have a large face (e.g. the Breitling for Bentley Motors edition has a 48 mm Case Diameter) for better visibility and being used to display more information on the analog dials. Many models are in possession of an automatic winding mechanism which is purely mechanical (i.e. using no electronic components). Many Breitling Watches are equipped with additional functions, such as the flyback function, split-second, moon phase, date display and other complicated functions. And Breitling replica watches also have these features today.
Breitling was a sponsor of Team Bentley during their Le Mans 24 Hours' campaign, which was held from the year 2001-2003. To commemorate this event, Breitling Watch Company created the limited edition Breitling Bentley 24 Le Mans Watch. This model now is still in great value not only for the high quality but also for the significant symbolic meaning. It becomes an item cherished by many watch collectors.
In case you want to buy a second hand or used Breitling Watches, you can also get one through the website. This is the most convenient way to realize your purpose. One thing to notice is that, if you are aimed at an authentic one, please connect the authorized stores, no matter on line or in your local region.
Breitling was a sponsor of Team Bentley during their Le Mans 24 Hours' campaign, which was held from the year 2001-2003. To commemorate this event, Breitling Watch Company created the limited edition Breitling Bentley 24 Le Mans Watch. This model now is still in great value not only for the high quality but also for the significant symbolic meaning. It becomes an item cherished by many watch collectors.
In case you want to buy a second hand or used Breitling Watches, you can also get one through the website. This is the most convenient way to realize your purpose. One thing to notice is that, if you are aimed at an authentic one, please connect the authorized stores, no matter on line or in your local region.
2011年6月16日星期四
Scott graduated from Union Pines in 1993
Scott graduated from Union Pines in 1993 after having a lot of success in golf. While there, he won the high school state championship with the lowest score posted in about 20 years and was a North Carolina High School Player of the Year. He attended Rice University on a golf scholarship.
After graduating from college, Scott spent four years on the Canadian Professional Tour. He spent two years as the head golf coach at the University of Texas-Pan American before returning to his alma mater. He has had a successful six years as the head golf coach at Rice University, including coaching Whitehead the past four years.
Whitehead, 23, turned professional this year, but other than the U.S. Open qualifiers and the Texas State Open, most of his experience comes from college play. Originally a first alternate, Whitehead gained his position in the Open after Woods dropped out due to injuries to his left knee and Achilles tendon.
Professional and amateur golfers began arriving at the Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Md., Monday for the 111th U.S. Open. Players will compete on the Blue Course. The official 2011 U.S. Open website says the course is “often considered among the best 100 courses in the United States.”
“The U.S. Open is so challenging because they make the greens firm and fast,” Scott said. “You have to be very precise.”
All U.S. Open competitors began the week Monday with practice rounds and start tournament play Thursday. The Open ends Sunday after four rounds. If there is a tie, players will play in a fifth 18-hole round the next Monday, followed by a sudden death playoff if the tie still stands after the fifth round.
Scott said that he and Whitehead planned to practice Monday and Tuesday, with a lighter round Wednesday. As Whitehead’s caddie, Scott will be the only person able to advise Whitehead during the Open. As his former coach, Scott will know how to keep him calm and focused in his first major experience as a professional golfer.
After graduating from college, Scott spent four years on the Canadian Professional Tour. He spent two years as the head golf coach at the University of Texas-Pan American before returning to his alma mater. He has had a successful six years as the head golf coach at Rice University, including coaching Whitehead the past four years.
Whitehead, 23, turned professional this year, but other than the U.S. Open qualifiers and the Texas State Open, most of his experience comes from college play. Originally a first alternate, Whitehead gained his position in the Open after Woods dropped out due to injuries to his left knee and Achilles tendon.
Professional and amateur golfers began arriving at the Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Md., Monday for the 111th U.S. Open. Players will compete on the Blue Course. The official 2011 U.S. Open website says the course is “often considered among the best 100 courses in the United States.”
“The U.S. Open is so challenging because they make the greens firm and fast,” Scott said. “You have to be very precise.”
All U.S. Open competitors began the week Monday with practice rounds and start tournament play Thursday. The Open ends Sunday after four rounds. If there is a tie, players will play in a fifth 18-hole round the next Monday, followed by a sudden death playoff if the tie still stands after the fifth round.
Scott said that he and Whitehead planned to practice Monday and Tuesday, with a lighter round Wednesday. As Whitehead’s caddie, Scott will be the only person able to advise Whitehead during the Open. As his former coach, Scott will know how to keep him calm and focused in his first major experience as a professional golfer.
Walmart and Food Lion in Onley
Walmart and Food Lion in Onley
Walmart and Food Lion in Onley already have theirs up, so check them out and thank them for participating. Waste Watchers hopes to see them all around the Shore at Food Lions and Fresh Prides and Dollar stores and other places where people appreciate being reminded to Bring Your Own Bag.
It would be a nice touch to have our Shore pride show up and down Route 13 with a local message for a sustainable practice.
This is not a radical proposal and sustainable is not a dirty word. Waste Watchers is suggesting that this summer we all make an effort to get in the habit of bringing our own bags to the store. In my case it took me at least 6 months to really get the habit, but I'm a slow learner, so the summer is a good place to start.
Lots of places globally are banning plastic bags or making them cost consumers, but that's not likely to happen here, yet. What we can do is use less of them in the first place, reuse them when possible (they are great for lining waste baskets, picking up poop, or carrying tennis shoes- just for starters) and then, recycle them whenever possible.
Here on the Eastern Shore our plastic bags are recycled and that's a good thing. What would be better would be to use less of them altogether?
We've all seen plastic bags blowing in the wind, across the field, hanging from the trees, bobbing along the beach. Here on the Shore this is a sadly common sight. Plastic bags, along with other litter, line our roadways.
(Can you believe I'm glad the weeds are growing because they hide the roadside trash? It's one of summer's illusions that I actually look forward to. After the long fall, winter, and spring of looking at the garbage in the ditches I'm relieved not to see it.) But I digress.
As a trash talker for Waste Watchers of the Eastern Shore, I've been referring to plastic, made from petroleum, as having come from dinosaur bones. My idea was to illustrate how old it is. Well, I was wrong.
Walmart and Food Lion in Onley already have theirs up, so check them out and thank them for participating. Waste Watchers hopes to see them all around the Shore at Food Lions and Fresh Prides and Dollar stores and other places where people appreciate being reminded to Bring Your Own Bag.
It would be a nice touch to have our Shore pride show up and down Route 13 with a local message for a sustainable practice.
This is not a radical proposal and sustainable is not a dirty word. Waste Watchers is suggesting that this summer we all make an effort to get in the habit of bringing our own bags to the store. In my case it took me at least 6 months to really get the habit, but I'm a slow learner, so the summer is a good place to start.
Lots of places globally are banning plastic bags or making them cost consumers, but that's not likely to happen here, yet. What we can do is use less of them in the first place, reuse them when possible (they are great for lining waste baskets, picking up poop, or carrying tennis shoes- just for starters) and then, recycle them whenever possible.
Here on the Eastern Shore our plastic bags are recycled and that's a good thing. What would be better would be to use less of them altogether?
We've all seen plastic bags blowing in the wind, across the field, hanging from the trees, bobbing along the beach. Here on the Shore this is a sadly common sight. Plastic bags, along with other litter, line our roadways.
(Can you believe I'm glad the weeds are growing because they hide the roadside trash? It's one of summer's illusions that I actually look forward to. After the long fall, winter, and spring of looking at the garbage in the ditches I'm relieved not to see it.) But I digress.
As a trash talker for Waste Watchers of the Eastern Shore, I've been referring to plastic, made from petroleum, as having come from dinosaur bones. My idea was to illustrate how old it is. Well, I was wrong.
2011年6月13日星期一
Cline was at the tail-end of one of four assembly lines
Cline was at the tail-end of one of four assembly lines where volunteers, wearing hairnets, some over baseball caps and scarves, and plastic gloves, measured soy meal, dried vegetables, chicken flavoring and rice into plastic bags. Once weighed, they were sealed and then boxed up, 36 packages to a box.
The packaging event was sponsored by the Garden City High School Key Club which raised $2,500 for the project through an Empty Bowls event to pay for the meals which cost about 28 cents each. Each bag can feed six adults or 12 children.
“This is the first time we've done it at the high school,” said Key Club president Brittany Zapczynski. “We did it at the Key Club convention and decided we really want to make a difference in the community.”
The club put a call the week before the event, held June 4, hoping to get 150 volunteers. The students expected 75 people, but when more than double that number showed up, Michael Burwell, executive director of the Kids Against Hunger Coalition of Michigan, had a plan. He rotated people in and out of the different work stations. Students, school district employees and parents with children from preschool to high school took turns assembling the meals.
“I've never had such sweaty hands,” said high school secretary Karen Avey. “This is so fulfilling, but eeeeew!”
The packaging started just before 9 a.m. and by 9:20, Burwell had workers stop to hear table one announce they had packaged 2,500 meals. By 9:45 a.m., the total count was 8,000 meals, and Burwell was starting to shut down the assembly lines.
And by 10 a.m., the cleanup was well under way.
“We bring a whole mobile packaging operation to them,” said Burwell. “We bring the service project to the community in order to reach out to the world and to other people in the community.”
The packaging event was sponsored by the Garden City High School Key Club which raised $2,500 for the project through an Empty Bowls event to pay for the meals which cost about 28 cents each. Each bag can feed six adults or 12 children.
“This is the first time we've done it at the high school,” said Key Club president Brittany Zapczynski. “We did it at the Key Club convention and decided we really want to make a difference in the community.”
The club put a call the week before the event, held June 4, hoping to get 150 volunteers. The students expected 75 people, but when more than double that number showed up, Michael Burwell, executive director of the Kids Against Hunger Coalition of Michigan, had a plan. He rotated people in and out of the different work stations. Students, school district employees and parents with children from preschool to high school took turns assembling the meals.
“I've never had such sweaty hands,” said high school secretary Karen Avey. “This is so fulfilling, but eeeeew!”
The packaging started just before 9 a.m. and by 9:20, Burwell had workers stop to hear table one announce they had packaged 2,500 meals. By 9:45 a.m., the total count was 8,000 meals, and Burwell was starting to shut down the assembly lines.
And by 10 a.m., the cleanup was well under way.
“We bring a whole mobile packaging operation to them,” said Burwell. “We bring the service project to the community in order to reach out to the world and to other people in the community.”
Polybags rule despite ban
Polythene bags, banned with much fanfare over nine years ago, are making their way back to the market for lack of monitoring and suitable alternatives.
Paper and net bags hit the market as alternatives after the ban, but traders still prefer plastic bags to the webbed and wafer-thin ones.
They argue that paper bags tear easily and net bags are inconvenient to carry goods in rainy weather.
Grocer Mazharul Islam in the capital's Malibagh area said many customers ask for plastic bags to carry groceries.
“It is cheap, user-friendly and easily available. You can order a hundred kilogram of polythene in the morning and get it by evening,” said Mohammad Al Amin, another grocer at Karwan Bazar.
The government imposed a nationwide ban on polythene bags (below 100 microns) in 2002 after thousands of discarded bags clogged up the drainage system in urban areas.
Plastic bags choked the drainage system adding to thesufferings of people during the 1988 and 1998 floods, pointed out environmental groups.
Chemical experts say the apparently harmless polythene is unsafe to manufacture and takes centuries to decompose.
The substances emitted during its production can cause cancer to factory workers and also damage their kidneys, nervous and immune systems.
When these bags are burnt for recycling, they release into the air poisonous chemicals including dioxin, one of the most toxic substances.
The Daily Star found some polythene factories operating in the capital's Chawkbazar, Begumbazar and Karwan Bazar areas, with a few offering free samples to lure customers.
Many makeshift factories are still producing huge amounts of plastic bags, ignoring the risks of facing a fine up to Tk 10 lakh and jail sentence up to 10 years.
Seeking anonymity, a polythene trader in Karwan Bazar said he was aware that his business was illegal.
“But there is demand for these bags in the market, and we just give the customers what they want,” he said.
A kilogram of polythene bags is sold at Tk 140 at a profit of Tk 10 to 15. The business is run clandestinely, as it is illegal, said the trader.
Several traders at Karwan Bazar said they have not seen any drive against polythene bags for quite some time.
However, the Department of Environment (DoE) said it has fined 492 stores and factories about Tk 36 lakh in Dhaka from January 2010 to date.
Eleven people have been jailed either for producing or storing polythene. About 64 tonnes of plastic bags were seized too.
“During drives, we usually find customers using polythene bags and give them paper bags as an alternative,” said Sukumar Biswas, director (Dhaka division) of the DoE.
Very few of them were penalised Tk 500 each for defying the ban, he added.
M Mahboob Hossain, an associate professor of microbiology at BRAC University, said it seems only a few people are aware of the demerits of using polythene bags.
Paper and net bags hit the market as alternatives after the ban, but traders still prefer plastic bags to the webbed and wafer-thin ones.
They argue that paper bags tear easily and net bags are inconvenient to carry goods in rainy weather.
Grocer Mazharul Islam in the capital's Malibagh area said many customers ask for plastic bags to carry groceries.
“It is cheap, user-friendly and easily available. You can order a hundred kilogram of polythene in the morning and get it by evening,” said Mohammad Al Amin, another grocer at Karwan Bazar.
The government imposed a nationwide ban on polythene bags (below 100 microns) in 2002 after thousands of discarded bags clogged up the drainage system in urban areas.
Plastic bags choked the drainage system adding to thesufferings of people during the 1988 and 1998 floods, pointed out environmental groups.
Chemical experts say the apparently harmless polythene is unsafe to manufacture and takes centuries to decompose.
The substances emitted during its production can cause cancer to factory workers and also damage their kidneys, nervous and immune systems.
When these bags are burnt for recycling, they release into the air poisonous chemicals including dioxin, one of the most toxic substances.
The Daily Star found some polythene factories operating in the capital's Chawkbazar, Begumbazar and Karwan Bazar areas, with a few offering free samples to lure customers.
Many makeshift factories are still producing huge amounts of plastic bags, ignoring the risks of facing a fine up to Tk 10 lakh and jail sentence up to 10 years.
Seeking anonymity, a polythene trader in Karwan Bazar said he was aware that his business was illegal.
“But there is demand for these bags in the market, and we just give the customers what they want,” he said.
A kilogram of polythene bags is sold at Tk 140 at a profit of Tk 10 to 15. The business is run clandestinely, as it is illegal, said the trader.
Several traders at Karwan Bazar said they have not seen any drive against polythene bags for quite some time.
However, the Department of Environment (DoE) said it has fined 492 stores and factories about Tk 36 lakh in Dhaka from January 2010 to date.
Eleven people have been jailed either for producing or storing polythene. About 64 tonnes of plastic bags were seized too.
“During drives, we usually find customers using polythene bags and give them paper bags as an alternative,” said Sukumar Biswas, director (Dhaka division) of the DoE.
Very few of them were penalised Tk 500 each for defying the ban, he added.
M Mahboob Hossain, an associate professor of microbiology at BRAC University, said it seems only a few people are aware of the demerits of using polythene bags.
2011年6月9日星期四
Pinkberry Comes to Blue Back
The shop offers unusual flavors, like salted caramel, and more traditional flavors, including chocolate, mango, pomegranate and watermelon, it’s green tea smoothies and fruit parfaits.
Pinkberry is one of three new businesses that will open in Blue Back this summer.
Kennedy’s All-American Barber Club and Ooh La La!, a Connecticut-born boutique, will also open. Ooh La La! sells accessories including shoes, handbags, belts and more.
“We’re always encouraged by the continued interest in Blue Back Square,” Barbara Lerner, project marketing manager for Blue Back Square, said. “While retail vacancy rates remain very high across the state, we are able to keep ours at a minimum. It’s certainly a reflection of the first rate retail experience consumers have when they come to Blue Back Square.”
Pinkberry is one of three new businesses that will open in Blue Back this summer.
Kennedy’s All-American Barber Club and Ooh La La!, a Connecticut-born boutique, will also open. Ooh La La! sells accessories including shoes, handbags, belts and more.
“We’re always encouraged by the continued interest in Blue Back Square,” Barbara Lerner, project marketing manager for Blue Back Square, said. “While retail vacancy rates remain very high across the state, we are able to keep ours at a minimum. It’s certainly a reflection of the first rate retail experience consumers have when they come to Blue Back Square.”
Very Veda: Celeb Fave Designer Lyndsey Butler Talks Leather
A year-round staple, the perfect little leather jacket is as chic on a chilly Hamptons evening as a crisp New York afternoon. On the quest to find the right fit at a relatively reasonable price point, Lyndsey Butler, who put in her time with Yael Aflalo at Ya-Ya, decided to try designing one of her own. That was the spirit, anyway, when she launched her line, Veda, for Spring 2008.
Since then, the Texas native turned New York resident has shown a knack for cropped fits and sleek leather in variations from jackets, vests to skirts, in prices ranging from $150 to $780. Along with a celebrity following that includes Cameron Diaz, Jessica Alba and Naomi Watts, the collection is carried at hip stores such as Opening Ceremony, Barney's New York and Shopbop.com, where Butler introduced a capsule collection of handbags this spring. She also opened a proprietary boutique in Manhattan's Lower East Side in 2009.
Since then, the Texas native turned New York resident has shown a knack for cropped fits and sleek leather in variations from jackets, vests to skirts, in prices ranging from $150 to $780. Along with a celebrity following that includes Cameron Diaz, Jessica Alba and Naomi Watts, the collection is carried at hip stores such as Opening Ceremony, Barney's New York and Shopbop.com, where Butler introduced a capsule collection of handbags this spring. She also opened a proprietary boutique in Manhattan's Lower East Side in 2009.
2011年6月2日星期四
The facility also has programs on the road
The facility also has programs on the road in our communities, including the household hazardous waste mobile unit for paints, solvents, thinners and the like. All the staff are trained with how to pack these hazardous chemicals and transport them to the facility where they are stored until Atlantic Industrial comes to pick them up. “Some of it gets recycled and some of it gets stabilized,” says Avery.
The Hazardous Waste storage area also contains barrels of engine oil that will be recycled and buckets of cooking oil which is used in biofuels and animal feed. Propane canisters, and automotive batteries are also collected and shipped off for refurbishment or recycling.
The drop-off point, just past the new office building for the facility, is as far as members of the public can go at the Waste-management site. There are large, clearly marked bins for the separation of garbage in the drop-off shed. To the side of the shed is a little garage with a unique purpose; it’s a reuse center. Avery explains, “If someone comes in with something that is still good, that could be of use to someone else, we ask them to put it there. Then people can come in and help themselves to whatever they want. It’s just another way of recycling.”
Just past the drop-off shed is the compost area where as many as 30 to 50 bald eagles can be seen vying for a place at the table on any given day. Under a large tarp is a mound of garden-ready compost. “We sell that on a regular basis. Right now it is going like hotcakes. We don’t have a problem getting rid of it. Most of our organics come from the Town of Antigonish; they have a green box program, and businesses around Guysborough and Port Hawkesbury. We get some fish waste from plants around here as well.”
The compost facility has two main pieces of machinery: a mixer and a screener. Other then these two machines the compost goes through several cycles of curing both inside and outside before it is garden-ready.
Next up on the tour is the diverted materials area. “This doesn’t go to the landfill, we find other uses for it,” says Avery. With the tire-recycling p rogram, tires are chipped in Halifax and reused as an aggregate.”
There’s also a clean wood and brush pile. “We chip that up and use it over in the compost facility for a bulking agent.” Construction and demolition debris is used for cover on the landfill and in some cases it is sent to NewPage for pulp fill.
The Hazardous Waste storage area also contains barrels of engine oil that will be recycled and buckets of cooking oil which is used in biofuels and animal feed. Propane canisters, and automotive batteries are also collected and shipped off for refurbishment or recycling.
The drop-off point, just past the new office building for the facility, is as far as members of the public can go at the Waste-management site. There are large, clearly marked bins for the separation of garbage in the drop-off shed. To the side of the shed is a little garage with a unique purpose; it’s a reuse center. Avery explains, “If someone comes in with something that is still good, that could be of use to someone else, we ask them to put it there. Then people can come in and help themselves to whatever they want. It’s just another way of recycling.”
Just past the drop-off shed is the compost area where as many as 30 to 50 bald eagles can be seen vying for a place at the table on any given day. Under a large tarp is a mound of garden-ready compost. “We sell that on a regular basis. Right now it is going like hotcakes. We don’t have a problem getting rid of it. Most of our organics come from the Town of Antigonish; they have a green box program, and businesses around Guysborough and Port Hawkesbury. We get some fish waste from plants around here as well.”
The compost facility has two main pieces of machinery: a mixer and a screener. Other then these two machines the compost goes through several cycles of curing both inside and outside before it is garden-ready.
Next up on the tour is the diverted materials area. “This doesn’t go to the landfill, we find other uses for it,” says Avery. With the tire-recycling p rogram, tires are chipped in Halifax and reused as an aggregate.”
There’s also a clean wood and brush pile. “We chip that up and use it over in the compost facility for a bulking agent.” Construction and demolition debris is used for cover on the landfill and in some cases it is sent to NewPage for pulp fill.
A former Ann Summers employee
A former Ann Summers employee, who claimed she had been publicly accused of trying to steal a French maid’s outfit from the erotica shop, has been awarded 17,000 damages for defamation of character.
The Circuit Civil Court heard it was a see-through parcel in shop assistant Michelle O’Neill’s shoulder bag that had led another member of staff to mistakenly assume O’Neill was stealing a maid’s black and white kinky outfit.
Barrister Michael Fox, counsel for O’Neill, of Killester Avenue, Artane, Dublin, told Mr Justice Matthew Deery that the suspect item, wrapped in a plastic bag, turned out to be a black and white dress belonging to Ms O’Neill.
He said Gloria Kangstrom, who had searched Ms O’Neill’s bag, had lifted the parcel from it and asked: “A maid’s outfit?” After discovering her mistake she said to other staff: “Oh! I thought it was a French maid’s outfit in her bag.”
Mr Fox said the words had been spoken loudly and dramatically in the presence of other employees and customers in the Lower O’Connell Street, Dublin, store, defaming Ms O’Neill.
O’Neill told the court that when she joined Ann Summers she signed a contract of employment in which she agreed that on leaving the shop on a daily basis she, like other members of staff, would open their bags and show the contents to whoever was on the till at the door.
She said the contract also included a clause which noted her agreement to her shop locker being checked randomly. The agreement specifically stated that while another member of staff could look they could not touch or delve into personal belongings.
On June 23 last year she had been leaving the store after work and had unzipped her shoulder bag so that Gloria (Ms Kangstrom) could inspect it. She had looked into it, had seen the parcel, lifted it out and had spoken the defamatory words.
Ms O’Neill told Joe Jeffers, counsel for Ann Summers, that the store had been experiencing shoplifting and there had been a suspicion of staff theft. Each employee had received specific training on product security and dealing with suspected shoplifters.
The Circuit Civil Court heard it was a see-through parcel in shop assistant Michelle O’Neill’s shoulder bag that had led another member of staff to mistakenly assume O’Neill was stealing a maid’s black and white kinky outfit.
Barrister Michael Fox, counsel for O’Neill, of Killester Avenue, Artane, Dublin, told Mr Justice Matthew Deery that the suspect item, wrapped in a plastic bag, turned out to be a black and white dress belonging to Ms O’Neill.
He said Gloria Kangstrom, who had searched Ms O’Neill’s bag, had lifted the parcel from it and asked: “A maid’s outfit?” After discovering her mistake she said to other staff: “Oh! I thought it was a French maid’s outfit in her bag.”
Mr Fox said the words had been spoken loudly and dramatically in the presence of other employees and customers in the Lower O’Connell Street, Dublin, store, defaming Ms O’Neill.
O’Neill told the court that when she joined Ann Summers she signed a contract of employment in which she agreed that on leaving the shop on a daily basis she, like other members of staff, would open their bags and show the contents to whoever was on the till at the door.
She said the contract also included a clause which noted her agreement to her shop locker being checked randomly. The agreement specifically stated that while another member of staff could look they could not touch or delve into personal belongings.
On June 23 last year she had been leaving the store after work and had unzipped her shoulder bag so that Gloria (Ms Kangstrom) could inspect it. She had looked into it, had seen the parcel, lifted it out and had spoken the defamatory words.
Ms O’Neill told Joe Jeffers, counsel for Ann Summers, that the store had been experiencing shoplifting and there had been a suspicion of staff theft. Each employee had received specific training on product security and dealing with suspected shoplifters.
2011年5月31日星期二
Cities around the county have toyed with the idea
Cities around the county have toyed with the idea of banning plastic bags — but they tend to drop the idea as soon as the word “lawsuit” is heard from bag manufacturers.
In an effort to fend off legal challenges, several cities are now calling for the City/County Association of Governments to conduct a countywide environmental review of the project — a move they say could free each city to choose to ban the bags without worrying about repercussions.
But the countywide agency has been reluctant to endorse the idea, worrying it could take time and money away from other priorities.
In an attempt to reduce the number of plastic bags that wind up in the Bay and ocean, San Francisco, San Jose and several other California cities have banned the bags at large stores.
About two years ago, Millbrae tried to follow suit, but was told that if it didn’t conduct a full environmental review, it would be slammed with a lawsuit by companies that produce the bags, said Councilwoman Gina Papan.
With budgets shrinking, the city council couldn’t justify conducting an expensive environmental review for the project, she said. She said they were hoping a state law would be passed that would eliminate the need.
“As smaller cities we can’t afford it, but we’re all members of C/CAG,” she said. “We thought we could just have the county do it as a whole so we could be a lot more efficient.”
Papan, who is a member of C/CAG’s board, proposed the idea earlier this year, and C/CAG Executive Director Richard Napier said the association’s attorney has been exploring the idea.
“We haven’t decided if it’s something we can accommodate, given our staffing,” Napier said. “We’re already having a tough time doing everything we have on our plate now.”
Daly City Councilman David Canepa proposed a plastic bag ban in that city earlier this year, but said the proposal also had to be tabled after the Save the Plastic Bag Coalition threatened legal action if the ban went forward. That organization, which says it has no financial relationship with the plastic-bag manufacturing industry, has filed legal challenges to similar ban attempts in Marin County, Los Angeles, San Jose and Palo Alto.
In an effort to fend off legal challenges, several cities are now calling for the City/County Association of Governments to conduct a countywide environmental review of the project — a move they say could free each city to choose to ban the bags without worrying about repercussions.
But the countywide agency has been reluctant to endorse the idea, worrying it could take time and money away from other priorities.
In an attempt to reduce the number of plastic bags that wind up in the Bay and ocean, San Francisco, San Jose and several other California cities have banned the bags at large stores.
About two years ago, Millbrae tried to follow suit, but was told that if it didn’t conduct a full environmental review, it would be slammed with a lawsuit by companies that produce the bags, said Councilwoman Gina Papan.
With budgets shrinking, the city council couldn’t justify conducting an expensive environmental review for the project, she said. She said they were hoping a state law would be passed that would eliminate the need.
“As smaller cities we can’t afford it, but we’re all members of C/CAG,” she said. “We thought we could just have the county do it as a whole so we could be a lot more efficient.”
Papan, who is a member of C/CAG’s board, proposed the idea earlier this year, and C/CAG Executive Director Richard Napier said the association’s attorney has been exploring the idea.
“We haven’t decided if it’s something we can accommodate, given our staffing,” Napier said. “We’re already having a tough time doing everything we have on our plate now.”
Daly City Councilman David Canepa proposed a plastic bag ban in that city earlier this year, but said the proposal also had to be tabled after the Save the Plastic Bag Coalition threatened legal action if the ban went forward. That organization, which says it has no financial relationship with the plastic-bag manufacturing industry, has filed legal challenges to similar ban attempts in Marin County, Los Angeles, San Jose and Palo Alto.
A collection of well-used heavy bags
A collection of well-used heavy bags and speed bags surround a ring that has seen thousands of rounds of sparring. The faded canvas is spotted with blood stains and patched in places with duct tape. A locker is filled with scuffed head gear and worn gloves that must have struck both leather and jaws countless times.
The “change room” is simply a corner of the gym behind walls of lockers. If I want to use the bathroom inside, one of the coaches has to do a “change room check” to make sure no women are dressing. Or, if they’re busy, someone just yells, “Boy entering the change room!”
The walls of the gym are decorated with weathered posters of famous fighters and fights, alongside framed photos of the gym’s women boxers in various poses, looking fierce and fearless.
Only once did my being male cause trouble. One Tuesday evening, I walked into the gym a few minutes early. A woman lifting weights took offence at my presence. She stopped, glared, pointed at me, then at the door and yelled at me to get out. Humiliated, I stood frozen as she continued to yell. I bowed my head, turned around, closed the door and stood in the hallway, feeling absolutely foolish.
Thankfully, the majority of women have no problem with me and work out here for the same reasons I do – a love of boxing as a great form of exercise and an unequalled stress reliever.
However, some of these women were born to fight. There are a number of highly skilled boxers who train for amateur fights. They are something to watch. And when I watch them spar or train, anything to do with gender vanishes. What I see is dazzling footwork, silky-smooth defence and lightning-quick punch combinations. What I see are fighters.
And yet while these accomplished pugilists train hard to destroy their next opponent, the gym has a remarkably friendly vibe, a refreshing change to the “bet I can kick your ass” mentality at some men’s boxing gyms. At my age, my days of puffing out my chest are long gone. Here, the atmosphere is unintimidating and informal. There’s nothing to prove.
The “change room” is simply a corner of the gym behind walls of lockers. If I want to use the bathroom inside, one of the coaches has to do a “change room check” to make sure no women are dressing. Or, if they’re busy, someone just yells, “Boy entering the change room!”
The walls of the gym are decorated with weathered posters of famous fighters and fights, alongside framed photos of the gym’s women boxers in various poses, looking fierce and fearless.
Only once did my being male cause trouble. One Tuesday evening, I walked into the gym a few minutes early. A woman lifting weights took offence at my presence. She stopped, glared, pointed at me, then at the door and yelled at me to get out. Humiliated, I stood frozen as she continued to yell. I bowed my head, turned around, closed the door and stood in the hallway, feeling absolutely foolish.
Thankfully, the majority of women have no problem with me and work out here for the same reasons I do – a love of boxing as a great form of exercise and an unequalled stress reliever.
However, some of these women were born to fight. There are a number of highly skilled boxers who train for amateur fights. They are something to watch. And when I watch them spar or train, anything to do with gender vanishes. What I see is dazzling footwork, silky-smooth defence and lightning-quick punch combinations. What I see are fighters.
And yet while these accomplished pugilists train hard to destroy their next opponent, the gym has a remarkably friendly vibe, a refreshing change to the “bet I can kick your ass” mentality at some men’s boxing gyms. At my age, my days of puffing out my chest are long gone. Here, the atmosphere is unintimidating and informal. There’s nothing to prove.
2011年5月26日星期四
Think of all the things a Swiss Army knife
Think of all the things a Swiss Army knife can do -- open a tin can or bottle of wine, file your nails, or even stab a former fraternity pledge, like the cops say 28-year-old Janseel Singh did yesterday.
Police say Singh -- one of the "founding fathers" of Florida Atlantic University's chapter of the Beta Chi Theta fraternity -- was hanging out with his frat boys at Hookah Hut in Boca Raton before going to smoke some weed in the parking lot with two of the guys after the place closed.
As they said their high goodbyes around 2 a.m., police say Singh decided to pull out a Swiss Army knife and stab a 20-year-old former pledge in the gut.
The man told police he thought Singh was kidding and wasn't even aware he'd been stabbed until he noticed his bloody shirt.
While the stab victim was treated at a Boca Raton hospital for a two-inch stab wound, Singh resorted to text-message-threatening him, the cops say, which is just about as badass as stabbing someone with a Swiss Army knife.
"The beef is on... U better pick ur side... or risk getting hit up," police say Singh sent to the man via text message. (For those not hip to badass jargon, "hit up" apparently means attacked, according to the cops.)
Back at the police station, the other man in the car told the cops that Singh probably stabbed him over a bag of weed that went missing, which Singh presumed he had stolen.
Also, he told police he thought Singh could have been upset about the stab victim dropping out of the fraternity, which doesn't really sound any better than stabbing someone with a Swiss Army knife over a bag of weed.
The cops say Singh turned himself in to police yesterday afternoon and now faces a charge of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.
Police say Singh -- one of the "founding fathers" of Florida Atlantic University's chapter of the Beta Chi Theta fraternity -- was hanging out with his frat boys at Hookah Hut in Boca Raton before going to smoke some weed in the parking lot with two of the guys after the place closed.
As they said their high goodbyes around 2 a.m., police say Singh decided to pull out a Swiss Army knife and stab a 20-year-old former pledge in the gut.
The man told police he thought Singh was kidding and wasn't even aware he'd been stabbed until he noticed his bloody shirt.
While the stab victim was treated at a Boca Raton hospital for a two-inch stab wound, Singh resorted to text-message-threatening him, the cops say, which is just about as badass as stabbing someone with a Swiss Army knife.
"The beef is on... U better pick ur side... or risk getting hit up," police say Singh sent to the man via text message. (For those not hip to badass jargon, "hit up" apparently means attacked, according to the cops.)
Back at the police station, the other man in the car told the cops that Singh probably stabbed him over a bag of weed that went missing, which Singh presumed he had stolen.
Also, he told police he thought Singh could have been upset about the stab victim dropping out of the fraternity, which doesn't really sound any better than stabbing someone with a Swiss Army knife over a bag of weed.
The cops say Singh turned himself in to police yesterday afternoon and now faces a charge of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.
Auto driver returns laptop bag to NRI
A honest auto driver on Tuesday returned a handbag containing a costly laptop, credit cards and other documents to a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) who forgot to collect it while getting down from the vehicle at the Secunderabad railway station on Monday night.
The NRI Md Yousuf S Jilani is working as an analyst at Equiniti in London. Jilani, who came to the city few days ago, boarded an auto near Hill Fort Road near Kalanjali to go to the Secunderabad Railway Station to catch a train Monday night.
"In a hurry to catch the train, Jilani got down from the auto without taking his hand bag which he had kept in the luggage area at the back of the auto," Central Zone deputy commissioner of police Akun Sabharwal said.
The auto belonged to Mir Hyder Ali, a resident of Moin Bagh. He also did not notice that the bag was left behind and left the railway station. He noticed the bag only late in the night and immediately went back to the railway station to find Jilani.
Meanwhile Jilani also had not boarded the train after he realised that his bag was missing. He went about in search of the auto till late into the night.
Failing to trace Jilani, the auto driver went to the Police Control Room and handed over the bag to the night duty sub-inspector of police Babu.
Police went through the documents and other articles in the bag and found the phone numbers of some of Jilani's relatives who stay in Vijayawada. Jilani was finally traced on Tuesday and the bag was returned to him.
The bag contained a Toshiba laptop, eight credit cards mostly of England, identification documents and driving licence, three cheque books and other documents.
The NRI Md Yousuf S Jilani is working as an analyst at Equiniti in London. Jilani, who came to the city few days ago, boarded an auto near Hill Fort Road near Kalanjali to go to the Secunderabad Railway Station to catch a train Monday night.
"In a hurry to catch the train, Jilani got down from the auto without taking his hand bag which he had kept in the luggage area at the back of the auto," Central Zone deputy commissioner of police Akun Sabharwal said.
The auto belonged to Mir Hyder Ali, a resident of Moin Bagh. He also did not notice that the bag was left behind and left the railway station. He noticed the bag only late in the night and immediately went back to the railway station to find Jilani.
Meanwhile Jilani also had not boarded the train after he realised that his bag was missing. He went about in search of the auto till late into the night.
Failing to trace Jilani, the auto driver went to the Police Control Room and handed over the bag to the night duty sub-inspector of police Babu.
Police went through the documents and other articles in the bag and found the phone numbers of some of Jilani's relatives who stay in Vijayawada. Jilani was finally traced on Tuesday and the bag was returned to him.
The bag contained a Toshiba laptop, eight credit cards mostly of England, identification documents and driving licence, three cheque books and other documents.
2011年5月24日星期二
The board seemed in favor of the proposition
The board seemed in favor of the proposition and with at least presenting a referendum for the public to vote on. But Mason has some leg work ahead of her.
Keefe asked that Mason attempt to generate signatures, and from there the board can take over and propose a referendum. The board said they believed she would have to generate around 1,000 signatures, but they were not able to corroborate that number with attorney Sam Drayo. She said she has about 65 signatures thus far.
The referendum, Keefe said, could possibly go along with the vote in November, or village election in March.
Mason also offered some data to the board on single-use disposable bags:
The U.S. uses roughly 100 billion plastic bags a year with the average family using 1,500 per year.
To create 100 billion plastic bags it takes an estimated 12 million barrels of oil.
Less than 5 percent of plastic bags are recycled.
The average plastic bag is only used for 12 minutes before it becomes waste.
For every square mile of ocean, there are roughly 46,000 pieces of plastic.
Ten percent (1 cent) of the proposed fee would go back to the business to help with the administrative costs associated with doing this, and the other 90 percent (9 cents) would be put into a sustainability fund. The fund would be joint between the village, city and town and it would be overseen by a committee. People, Mason said, would present projects to the committee and it would decide how that money would be spent.
Keefe asked that Mason attempt to generate signatures, and from there the board can take over and propose a referendum. The board said they believed she would have to generate around 1,000 signatures, but they were not able to corroborate that number with attorney Sam Drayo. She said she has about 65 signatures thus far.
The referendum, Keefe said, could possibly go along with the vote in November, or village election in March.
Mason also offered some data to the board on single-use disposable bags:
The U.S. uses roughly 100 billion plastic bags a year with the average family using 1,500 per year.
To create 100 billion plastic bags it takes an estimated 12 million barrels of oil.
Less than 5 percent of plastic bags are recycled.
The average plastic bag is only used for 12 minutes before it becomes waste.
For every square mile of ocean, there are roughly 46,000 pieces of plastic.
Ten percent (1 cent) of the proposed fee would go back to the business to help with the administrative costs associated with doing this, and the other 90 percent (9 cents) would be put into a sustainability fund. The fund would be joint between the village, city and town and it would be overseen by a committee. People, Mason said, would present projects to the committee and it would decide how that money would be spent.
Downtown Springfield Inc
Downtown Springfield Inc. wants to persuade downtown merchants to help eliminate both paper and plastic bags.
The goal is to reduce the number of bags that end up in landfills, especially the non-biodegradable plastic that is the bag of choice at many stores.
Victoria Ringer, DSI executive director, said her organization is talking to retailers about a reusable bag that would become consumers’ “downtown bag” when purchasing items.
Ringer said a handful of merchants and DSI’s Image and Design Council heard a presentation from Joan Barenfanger, who, along with Jane Denes, has been driving the Better Bag Project.
According to the Better Bag Project’s Facebook page, others in Springfield — including the local hospitals, Office Depot, Schnucks, Springfield Clinic, and Wiley Office Furniture -- already are participating. Communities, businesses and groups nationwide have launched efforts to wean consumers off plastic bags and to use more eco-friendly paper and reusable bags.
Barenfanger said she and Denes also are working with the Springfield School District, the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts and the Springfield Art Association and others to promote the program. The idea began a year ago under the aegis of Sustainable Springfield Inc. and the newly formed Green Business Network of Springfield.
“We’ve had a problem getting the word out,” Barenfanger said. “We’re not on any speaking-engagement list, but we’d love to talk to organizations. We want more retailers across the city to participate.”
The goal is to reduce the number of bags that end up in landfills, especially the non-biodegradable plastic that is the bag of choice at many stores.
Victoria Ringer, DSI executive director, said her organization is talking to retailers about a reusable bag that would become consumers’ “downtown bag” when purchasing items.
Ringer said a handful of merchants and DSI’s Image and Design Council heard a presentation from Joan Barenfanger, who, along with Jane Denes, has been driving the Better Bag Project.
According to the Better Bag Project’s Facebook page, others in Springfield — including the local hospitals, Office Depot, Schnucks, Springfield Clinic, and Wiley Office Furniture -- already are participating. Communities, businesses and groups nationwide have launched efforts to wean consumers off plastic bags and to use more eco-friendly paper and reusable bags.
Barenfanger said she and Denes also are working with the Springfield School District, the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts and the Springfield Art Association and others to promote the program. The idea began a year ago under the aegis of Sustainable Springfield Inc. and the newly formed Green Business Network of Springfield.
“We’ve had a problem getting the word out,” Barenfanger said. “We’re not on any speaking-engagement list, but we’d love to talk to organizations. We want more retailers across the city to participate.”
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