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Ten years ago, no one would have considered pollution as providing one of a country’s major financial problems. The point has been reached however, where the capacity of the natural systems which make up the biosphere, to go on absorbing with impunity the ever increasing quantities of the 2 million or so pollutants we are continuously exposing them to, is being severely strained.
The damage done, let us not forget, is cumulative, over and above the rate of natural recovery, which is, in relation to the damage, minimal. What is more, the problem is no longer purely a local one, it is becoming increasingly global. Throughout the world, mainly by annihilating fish populations (especially in inland waterways), by reducing fresh water supplies, by stunting plant growth, by corroding buildings, and significantly contributing to the development of a new set of diseases of which cancer is the most widespread and the most devastating, it is visibly beginning to affect the nature and extent of human activities and hence that of the economic process to which they are increasingly geared.
What is important to realise is that the costs involved must be paid for one way or another, either directly or indirectly in the form of expenditure on pollution-control installations. Most of it, as it happens, is likely to be paid in the former way, because pollution-control is not that effective and also because the capital to pay for it is unlikely to be made available in anything like the amounts required.
For this there are two obvious reasons over and above the general shortage of capital.
Firstly, pollution still ranks low in the average man’s preoccupations, and hence among Government priorities. Neither growing affluence, nor increased knowledge of environmental problems seem to influence governments to spend more on pollution-control than is essential to keep the economic machine functioning and to take the air out of the sails of the more clamorous environmentalist movements.
Consider for instance that neither Hull nor Montreal are equipped with any sewage treatment plants of any kind – and that the excrement of their inhabitants is simply released as raw sewage into the nearest waterway. Seen in the light of the latter’s megalomaniac extravagance, in building a complex of tunnels and motorways which make its approaches more daunting than those to Los Angeles, in constructing the biggest airport in the world, and in putting up the most ambitious installations of all time to accommodate a one-off sporting event, this can only be regarded as truly scandalous.
Secondly, many industries simply could not support the full cost of really effective pollution control. This appears to be true of feedlot operators, who very often cannot get rid of animal wastes, save by dumping them in the nearest waterway.
It appears to be true of the asbestos industry. The fibres most closely associated with asbestosis and lung cancer seem to be the smallest ones – which can only be detected with an electron microscope and which it is unlikely to be economic to control.
It is certainly true of uranium mining, in which the casualty rate from lung cancer among miners must remain inordinately high (as much as 50 percent in some mines, it appears).
It is so of the nuclear industry in general, which has not found a means of reducing the exposure of its workers to levels as much as thirty times higher (5 rems which is the new proposed annual limit in the US) than that at present judged acceptable (0.17 rems) for the general public, nor of separating its wastes from the biosphere for anything like the time they will remain highly toxic to most forms of life.
In general, it must be so of all those industries making toxic synthetic substances which cannot be effectively recycled by life processes such as PVCs, PCBs, organophosphate and organochlorine pesticides, etc. whose general use, as Commoner has so convincingly shown, has been responsible more than anything else for the radically increased pollution of the last decades.  There is probably no economic means of preventing these substances – when in general use as they are today – from causing serious biological damage, save by not producing them. Since this would mean correspondingly reducing economic activity, it is not today acceptable.
In spite of this, pollution-control in the US, according to the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), is likely to cost $194 billion in the decade 1973 to 1982 with peak spending in 1976 amounting to $320 per family of four. This means an expenditure of nearly $20 billion per year. It is admitted that even this will not effectively cut down pollution damage. According to CEQ, it will lead to a general improvement in air pollution. Water pollution problems, on the other hand will probably get worse. There is likely to be little progress in land use planning, and pesticide production is likely to continue growing.
The total costs are likely to be very considerably higher – and, at the present stage of the art, largely unquantifiable. Several attempts, however, have been made to calculate some of the biospheric costs of pollution, and to show how they must eventually be reflected in economic costs.
Watt considers this problem with respect to four Californian counties, two of which, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo are relatively air-pollution free, while the two others, Riverside and San Bernardino, are close to Los Angeles, and hence highly polluted.  He found that the incidence of respiratory diseases is 2 – 5 times less in the former than in the latter. He considers that clearing the air pollution would reduce the death rate by 38 percent. Further material from both the US and the UK, according to Watt, suggest that this is an underestimate and that 50 percent would be more realistic. He considers that the direct costs are so high that “almost any expenditure to control air pollution in big cities would be justified”.
Zerbe calculated that in 1965 air pollution costs in Canada were $52.46 per head, $70.94 in Ontario and $93.98 in Toronto.  On the basis of these calculations, Pollution Probe estimate that by 1980 these figures would be respectively $115.38, $156.78 and $207.70 – assuming that pollution levels will increase in proportion to economic activity and population trends. This would mean total costs by 1980 of over $4.2 billion for Canada as a whole, nearly $2 billion for Ontario, nearly $1.8 billion for Toronto.
These figures only take into account a fraction of the probable total costs, direct or indirect. No value is assigned, for instance, to human suffering or death, aesthetic costs or ecosystem damage – all of which in a variety of ways, must eventually be translated into economic costs.
In general, the real costs incurred by industry in polluting our natural environment have only just begun to be internalised and as this proceeds, which indeed it must do, so will the viability of industrial enterprise be correspondingly reduced.Back to top
If the public is beginning to awaken to the cost of pollution it is also beginning to feel that its interest as consumers does not always coincide with that of the producers. This new awareness, whose flames have been fanned by the activities of the indefatigable Ralph Nader, is giving rise to a very considerable increase in the costs of regulating industrial production so as to assure that consumer products conform to the ever more exacting new standards set by Government in answer to ever more vocal consumerist agitation.
In the estimation of President Ford $130 billion – or $2,000 per family – are spent every year just in enforcing these standards. Their cost to industry is, needless to say, considerably higher.
As a result of the pressure applied by the Consumer Products Safety Association, the price of a $100 lawnmower is said to have gone up to $185,  that of automobiles so as to meet current safety as well as pollution standards by $320 . Tyre manufacturers complain that safety standards have increased their costs by $150 million  while Federal Drug Standards are said to cost consumers $200 – 300 million a year.
The regulations established by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) are said to have increased costs in all by as much as $3.12 billion  and these, it is expected, will rise very considerably once new noise standards are established.
Particularly significant is the result of a public survey which showed that 56 percent of Americans want even more government regulation and only 45 percent want less, which seems to reflect the growing mistrust of industry. It suggests that these new costs will have to be met if the public is to be persuaded to accept the industrial way of life; and indeed, as awareness grows concerning the real costs of industrial activity, they can but increase still further.Back to top
In a traditional society, the functions of social control are assumed by the family and the small community at no financial cost. The reason is that both these basic units of social organisation are self-regulating, as are the other natural systems – biological organisms, ecosystems etc – that make up the biosphere.
A mother does not have to be paid to look after her children, nor to assure the proper functioning of her household. Nor does a husband have to be paid to assure his family’s material sustenance and protect it from the various challenges to which it may be subjected.
This is also true of the small community when left to itself. The members of an African tribe, for instance, all participate in its government simply as a matter of course. It is their duty to do so, and also their cherished prerogative. The same is still true of those few communities in Europe where participatory democracy is still practiced, for instance in a number of the more rural Swiss Cantons.
It ceases to be the case, however, once the functions normally fulfilled by the family and the community have been usurped by an institution that is external (asystemic) to these natural systems, thereby rendering them redundant and assuring in this way their inevitable disintegration.
This, however, gives rise to two sets of costs: firstly those involved in paying for the institutions that attempt, rather inadequately to take over; secondly those involved in controlling the pathological symptoms of social disintegration, which must inevitably manifest themselves in different forms.
Thus, the educative function of the family and the community has been largely usurped by the state, which has given rise to the ever increasing cost of putting up and operating a plethora of educational establishments. Increasingly, things that were once learned during the course of growing up within the family and of everyday living within the community, must be formally taught with the aid of increasingly elaborate technological devices, in specialised educational institutions of some sort, and the cost is rapidly getting out of hand.
At the same time this means a reduction in family and community responsibility. It also means that youth is correspondingly submitted to socially random influences, i.e. influences that are not designed to help them fulfil their family and community functions which is what education, in traditional societies, is all about.  The result of this is further social disintegration and further institutional costs.
The economic functions of the family, in particular, have been usurped by the developing cash economy. Such functions as tending the vegetable garden, baking bread, cooking the family meals and making the clothes for the different members of the family, contributed to its cohesion and assured that it remained a real unit of behaviour. Increasingly, today, both husband and wife must go out to work to pay for the growing number of material goods and services required for the purposes of everyday living.
Very few activities occur in the home – which is largely empty except at night. Food is bought in supermarkets – convenience foods at that, requiring the minimum of preparation in the home, while clothes and other material goods are all bought in shops. Even entertainment is provided from the outside in the form of radio and television programmes.
Just as people increasingly live in dormitory suburbs, they now also live in dormitory homes – lifeless shells – that provide an ever less adequate social environment for their members.
The economic functions of the community that once contributed to making it a viable social unit have been largely usurped by large commercial concerns. The very shape of a modern settlement is that which best favours the functioning of such concerns; social considerations being regarded as almost irrelevant and people being moved from one community to the next in accordance with the requirements of their work – which prevents the establishment of any durable social bonds. It is said that in the US, less than 15 percent of people live in the area in which they were born.
The welfare function of the family and community have also been usurped – largely by state institutions. Day-care centres are increasingly exempting women from the duty (and the pleasure) of bringing up their children, while old people’s homes exempt them from those of caring for the elderly, and vast free state-run hospitals make it unnecessary for them to look after members of their family who should happen to fall sick.
Once the family and community have been effectively destroyed in this way, people become entirely dependent on state welfare. As this occurs, a veritable new social class comes into being, which Jordan  refers to as the “Claiming Class”. Its development in industrial countries is noticeably giving rise to a right-wing reaction among the working classes, who despise the claimants and resent their ability to obtain, by various bureaucratic stratagems, all sorts of financial benefits for very little work. This, together with a similar resentment for foreign workers and immigrants of different ethnic groups, is probably the most important new factor in the politics of many industrial countries.
The social control function of the family and the community has also been usurped by increasing government control of almost every aspect of people’s lives. Public opinion, reflecting traditional values, has always been the only really effective instrument of social control. There is little social deviancy in an African tribe, nor even in a rural village – to the extent that it has succeeded in remaining outside the orbit of the larger conurbations.
The cost of replacing this self-regulating mechanism by external institutions – the police force, law courts, prisons, and every type of institution for caring for those who have resorted to some form of retreatism in an effort to escape from the intolerable social environment – is increasingly exorbitant, as is the direct cost of the damage done by these different types of deviants. These are all the social costs of economic growth and, as they increase, so do they render industrial activity that much less viable.
A measure of family disintegration in the US is provided by the following facts. In 1973, there were 913,000 divorces in a single year, one for every four marriages.  In 1974, 6.6 million families were headed by women (one out of every eight, a 50 percent increase since 1955) many of whom, indeed a greater proportion than ever before, had never married.
In Britain there were 621,000 single women struggling to bring up 1,080,000 children  – who will thereby all be subjected to different degrees of family deprivation and will grow up to display a correspondingly pronounced tendency towards some form of social deviance.
It must be noted that this situation could not occur in a traditional society, in which firmly entrenched cultural patterns strongly backed by public opinion prevent a situation arising in which children could be brought up in an unsatisfactory family environment of this sort.
What makes matters worse is that divorced women are finding it increasingly difficult to obtain support from their husbands, of whom, according to a study in Wisconsin (1972) 20 percent were in arrears on payments after one year, and 42 percent were paying nothing at all.
What is more, in general the women concerned must work full-time which means that their children are not only deprived of a father but, during most of the day of a mother as well.
A further measure of family breakdown in the US and the UK is the increasing violence within the remains of the family unit. Battered wives have suddenly emerged in the UK, and also in the US, as a major social problem. In many US cities, domestic violence often leads to death, and is indeed responsible for a high proportion of all murders.
Another measure is the number of runaway or ‘throwaway’ children, which is increasing very rapidly. In 1975, it was expected that the figure for the USA would increase by 50 percent over the 1974 figure.  Their fate is generally unpleasant. Among other things, they provide the principal source of prostitutes in most large American cities.
A further measure is the increased abandonment of old people, who tend to be confined to institutions, where they are ‘stored’ at very considerable cost – often under heavy sedation – until they die. In Britain, the cost of maintaining the aged is said to absorb nearly 45 percent of the country’s total expenditure on welfare, a figure that is expected to grow with the predicted further increase in their number in the next decades.
In the US, the fund established to provide old-age and disability payments is proving insufficient to do so. By 1990, it is expected that the system will be running a deficit of $20 billion a year. There just will not be enough money collected in the future to pay off all the benefits that people have been promised (whose cost has gone up from $300 million in 1945 to $68.9 billion in 1975 (estimated). Back to top
The number of alcoholics in the United States nearly doubled between 1958 and 1971, while that of alcoholics as a percentage of the population has more than doubled (from 2 percent to 4 percent).
The cost of alcoholism in terms of loss of wages and productivity alone has been estimated at $10 billion – which, if one takes into account the cost of treatment, the associated crime and delinquency and vandalism, the family and communal tension and deprivation that it contributes to, must be but a fraction of the real cost.Back to top
The number of suicides in the US has risen by 50 percent between 1955 and 1973. In 1973, 24,440 people are reported as having committed suicide. Only a proportion of suicides are registered as such. If all were registered it is estimated that suicide would rank as fourth or fifth among the causes of death. It is estimated that between 70,000 and 80,000 young people between the ages of 15 and 24 will attempt suicide in the US this year and between 3,000 and 4,500 will succeed.
In Canada, as is apparent from Figure 8, the suicide rate has doubled in the 49 years between 1921 and 1970. The cost of this, the ultimate form of retreatism, has, as far as I know, yet to be estimated.Back to top
Crime can be intimately linked with all the other symptoms of social disintegration. As Murphy, President of the Washington Police Foundation, writes:
“We have to face facts. There is too much instability in our cities. As long as we have unemployment, underemployment, broken homes, alcoholism, drugs, and mental health problems, we are going to have crime.”
And along with the rest of these problems, crime has risen in the US and the UK in the most dramatic fashion. In the US, the number of crimes rose in the 10 years from 1963 to 1973 from 314,230 to 861,000, while aggravated assaults during the same period rose from 172,250 to 412,000.
According to the FBI, in 1974, $42 million were stolen in robberies, $1.2 billion in burglaries and $816 million worth in larcenies. These costs are expected to go on increasing.
What is more, theft is constantly taking new forms. Arson for profit, for instance, is now said to be an established business, and according to insurance experts, 100,000 fires were set in 1974 to collect insurance, the cost exceeding $350 million. One of the side-effects, of course, is to bring about a corresponding increase in insurance premiums, which further affects economic viability.
According to a firm of brokers  specialising in channelling funds into the thriving crime-control business, the economic impact of crime and related expenditures – including police, corrections, the courts, prevention services and equipment – exceeded $21 billion in 1971. This figure, they regarded as “only indicative and does not include the value of loss or damaged lives and/or property, or the cost of the fear and suffering generated by the impact of crime.”
One must also take into account that all crimes are not reported to the police, indeed it would appear that in the US less than half are. According to the Law Enforcement’s Assistants Administration, the number of crimes committed in some cities is more than five times the number reported.
The same trends are visible in other industrialised countries. Thus, in Sweden, the crime rate has jumped 90 percent in a decade. In the UK a recent report estimates that the cost of crime in Britain in 1974 was at least £1,670 million and this does not take everything into account.
“Many crimes are not reported for instance and figures of losses from arson do not take into account the disruption of business and employment, the loss of overseas markets, etc. It is estimated that in 1975 the cost will be about £2,000 million.”
Visible trends in our industrial world undoubtedly favour further increases in the crime rate. The large-scale introduction of women into the cash economy, for instance, has led to a massive increase in female criminality. In the US, between 1968 and 1973, the arrest of women for serious crimes ranging from car theft to murder went up 62 percent compared with only 8 percent for men.Back to top
Another measure of social disintegration is the increasing vandalism in industrial countries. It is particularly high among youth in the larger cities. In the US the damage done to schools by vandals in the academic year 1972/3 was estimated to be $500 million, working out at about $10.87 per pupil, or about the same as the amount spent on textbooks that year.
The total cost of vandalism to the nation is hard to estimate. According to the police, only one case out of three gets reported. What is certain is that it is colossal and increasing every year. Back to top
If an industrial society provides an unsatisfactory social environment for its members, it is biologically equally unsatisfactory – so much so that it is giving rise to a new range of diseases – the so-called diseases of civilisation.
These include most forms of cancer, ischaemic heart disease, diabetes, diverticulitis, peptic ulcer, appendicitis, varicose veins and tooth caries. Their incidence appears to increase very much in line with per capita GNP, and their human costs are rapidly coming to be reflected in economic costs. Health costs are also increasing very radically in line with general demoralisation and alienation. Psychological problems are multiplying as are prescriptions for sedatives and tranquillisers.
Modern medicine, depending as it does on the use of medicines of increasing biological potency (such as antibiotics and corticosteroids), tend to give rise to all sorts of side-effects. Iatrogenic diseases are, in fact said to account for a high proportion of current disease. Various figures have been quoted. At the recent meeting of the British Association, it was suggested that they accounted for perhaps 20 percent of all disease, “and this may only be the tip of the iceberg”.
Its efficacy in reducing the incidence of the diseases it is designed to deal with has been overrated, as it is primarily concerned with treating their symptoms. Its inability in the long run to control infectious diseases has already been pointed out.
For these and other reasons, economic growth must lead to a continual increase in the cost of disease and its control. So much so, that in 1975, the US spent $118 billion on health services, which is $547 for every man, woman and child. This represents a 13.9 percent increase from $104 billion two years ago.  If medical costs were to go on increasing at this rate, it would reach a stupendous $500 billion by 1985 – or half today’s Gross National Product.
It goes without saying that none of these trends towards ever increasing expenditure on counteracting the biological, social and ecological destruction caused by economic growth can continue to be met for very long.
This is yet another set of trends that cannot be projected into the future. Regardless of their ideological commitments, governments will have to cut down ever more drastically on every sort of expenditure – in particular, on that designed to maintain all those institutional services that are expected of a welfare state. This must be the only way to make available more capital for investment in capital goods – energy installations, factories etc. Since governments will still be short of capital for this purpose, investment in the production of all but the apparently essential consumer products will slowly be abandoned. In any case, with the growing inflation and reduced economic growth, ever fewer people will be able to afford them.
All this means an implicit abandonment of the philosophy and goals both of the welfare state and also of the consumer society. It means, in fact, that we are now entering, at best, a period of economic contraction, at worst one of economic and social collapse.
Which it is to be depends very largely on decisions that must be taken now – that should, in fact, have been taken some five years ago, when the issues involved were first presented in concise form to the decision makers and the general public.
It depends on whether we decide to adapt to the new conditions that are unmistakably emerging, or obstinately cling to ever more obsolete socio-economic forms which must inevitably be eliminated by the brutal and unsparing hand of natural selection. It depends, in fact, on whether we assume responsibility for the necessary adaptations, or alternatively, as we put it, in A Blueprint for Survival, we decide to “delegate to disaster.”
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domain: sociology


text:
BY JEFF HORSEMAN
John Benoit will be chairman of the Riverside County Board of Supervisors in 2013 following a unanimous vote by the board Tuesday, Jan. 8.
Benoit served as vice chairman last year and takes over for John Tavaglione. Jeff Stone moves up to vice chairman, putting him in line to be chairman next year.
The chairman leads the board meetings and sits at the center of the supervisor dais. The vice chairman steps in when the chairman is absent.
A former Republican state assemblyman and California Highway Patrol officer, Benoit was appointed to the board by then-Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2009 following the death of Supervisor Roy Wilson. He was re-elected to a four-year term in 2010 and represents the district's desert communities.
Tensions flared between Benoit and Stone last year over the proposed Liberty Quarry. Benoit was a vocal advocate for the quarry and said it would benefit the region.
Stone, who represented the area where the quarry would be built, opposed the project and took offense to his colleague pushing for it. The quarry dispute ended when developer Granite Construction agreed to sell quarry land to the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians.
At the end of the year, Benoit and Stone collaborated on a plan to make the county more enticing to Hollywood production companies.

domain: news


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Many Americans hunting for safe, affordable healthcare are heading south to Mexico. In fact, so many that a small border town has been nicknamed "Molar City" because of the huge number of dentists.
The prices there are 30 percent less than what people might pay in the United States. Many are senior citizens who walk to the other side of the border.
There are so many dentists in the small town that people go there from everywhere, including North Dakota, Maryland, and Alaska.
Some are snowbirds, some are on vacation, and some travel there solely to see a dentist. They cross the border near Yuma, Arizona, which is about a three-hour drive southwest of Phoenix.
There is an airport, and parking at the border is just $6. Or, you can get a hotel shuttle. Some stay the night in town.
The streets fill up fast. There are signs everywhere advertising inexpensive dental care.
Sanidental looks like many U.S. dental offices.
“We do x-ray consultation, said a receptionist. “We manage insurance forms.”
Yes, they get you set up for insurance reimbursement. And with an aging population, health histories are vital.
"If they had surgeries in the past years, that we have to get OK from their home doctor,” said Miguel Sandoval, of Sanidental.
But it's the low cost that drives Americans over the border.
“I'm seeing prices about 25-30 percent what you'd see in the U.S.,” said Mitch Sayegh, of Alaska. “And that's significant when you're talking implants or major dental work. Even minor stuff here. It's $35 for a cleaning. It would cost me three or four times that in the states."
A retired pharmacist is there for extensive dental surgery.
“Price was a big factor,” said Tony Paul, of Nevada. “I've got a lot of fears, but I feel good.”
The Centers for Disease Control doesn't discourage anyone from seeking treatment out of the country but adds to pick a place fluent in English, check for antibiotic resistance in the area, and be careful flying too soon after surgery.


Hormones are blamed for everything from weight gain to mood swings and this December, Horizon takes a closer look at these chemical regulators and their effects on our bodies and minds. We explore the impact of the so-called love hormone on the human-dog relationship and what it can tell us about social disorders. We find out what’s being done to neutralise the hormone-disrupting chemicals that are found in water and sewage, and we discover the importance of hormonal rhythms in tracking disorders that can lead to obesity, heart disease and osteoporosis.
Hormonal disorders can affect people's immune systems, metabolism and even bones, and unravelling the mystery around something called ultradian rhythms could help improve diagnosis and lead to better treatments, according to Professor Eystein Sverre Husebye, who works at the Department of Clinical Science at the University of Bergen (UiB) in Norway.
The chemistry behind social behaviour in animals, including the bond between people and dogs – and the lack of one between humans and wolves – could help scientists identify new ways of treating social disorders such as autism and schizophrenia.
As May’s European elections approach, Horizon takes a step back to see what science can tell us about European politics. We look at the latest research into people’s opinions about the EU and how they’ve changed, particularly in response to the financial crisis of 2008, and ask what needs to be done to bring the public closer to politicians. We speak to cryptography expert Dr Steve Kremer about why most of us can’t vote online yet, and democracy specialist Prof. Wolfgang Merkel about the changing political party structures in Europe and whether this is a threat to democracy. We also find out how scientists are working to detect and flag fake news on social media in order to increase the transparency of the information people encounter online.
This month, Horizon explores the global challenge of biodiversity loss. Many experts believe we are in the midst of a sixth mass extinction, where human-caused factors such as land use and pollution are causing a decline in biodiversity – something that threatens the future of our own species. We speak to British ecologist Professor Georgina Mace about how bad the situation is and what we can do about it. We explore marine ecosystems, where species relocation outpaces that of terrestrial populations, and examine how we can help these environments adapt, as well as finding out what’s in store for bees – our pollinators. Finally, we investigate the services nature provides for people – from cleaning our water to acting as a carbon sink – and ask whether putting a value on natural capital could help save it.
In remote, rural corners of Malawi, hospitals are often faced with life-and-death decisions. Women in need of emergency caesarean sections, older people with hernias, and children with appendicitis need surgery. But should they be rushed to the operating theatre or transferred to specialists in city hospitals?
Mice that have undergone weight loss surgery experience a change in the composition of their gut bacteria and the functioning of their genes, leading scientists to explore the possibility of mimicking these changes to develop a non-surgical treatment for obesity and liver disease in humans.
Technology is helping to improve healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa.
Unexpected effects of bariatric surgery could help develop non-surgical obesity treatments.
We should not over-promise about the safety of automated vehicles if we want people to trust them, says Dr Jean- François Bonnefon.


text:
The Overgate is thriving with around a million visitors a month attracted by its bright and lively atmosphere and variety of shops and restaurants.
But you don’t have to walk far to discover that the stock of consumer spending – the lifeblood of retail industry – is not nearly enough to keep the whole patient healthy.
There are many reasons for this – the less buoyant economy, online competition and operating expenses like business rates and the living wage adding to the costs of running bricks-and-mortar retail enterprises.
The outline of a white knight is appearing on the horizon in the shape of the stunning V&A Museum of Design to take pride of place on the £1 billion waterfront redevelopment.
It is hoped to attract thousands of visitors whose spending power would not just refloat the city centre’s floundering economy but set it sailing for a prosperous future.
Lofty targets have been set and it would be great if they are achieved.
There’s the promise of an even bigger boost from the Tay Cities Deal although detailed plans for that venture have yet to be revealed.
It is against this background that the idea of a Business Improvement District (BID) for Dundee city centre has been revived.
A BID is a defined area in which a levy is charged on all business rate payers, based on the size of the business, in addition to the business rates bill.
The money raised from the levies is used to develop urban projects to benefit the constituent businesses in conjunction with commitments from the local authority.
Scotland has more than 30 of them, including Crieff, St Andrews and Kirkcaldy; and Auchterarder, Broughty Ferry and Carnoustie are among the places in the BIDs pipeline.
BIDs can work very well if all parties can unite behind them and give them their full support.
That’s what didn’t happen in Dundee city centre two years ago.
A detailed scheme was hatched for the area inside Marketgait, consisting of 450 businesses, calculated to produce more than £1.5 million for initiatives to improve the trading environment.
It received enough support from individual members but not enough from big businesses who, by virtue of their higher rateable values, had the crucial say.
Neil Cooney, the promoter of the 2015 attempt, thinks the time is right to try again and is setting up a steering group of business representatives.
Their task is to produce a manageable proposal that can succeed where the previous version failed.
A successful BID is a noble ambition, but it was on ambition that the 2015 project probably failed.
It was too big, too demanding of its members to succeed.
They say good things come in small packages, and that may be a better approach to take this time around.
A more modest scheme perhaps focusing on the Murraygate/Cowgate area where the need for help is greatest might run into fewer obstacles from competing interests, and may have a better chance of success.
Source: The Courier

domain: finance


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| 6:28 PM
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| Nov 6, 2014
| 9:39 PM
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| Sep 9, 2014
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| Sep 23, 2014
| 12:15 PM
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| Oct 15, 2014
| 6:33 PM
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| Sep 24, 2014
| 3:03 PM
A federal appeals court on Wednesday overturned an earlier ruling that had halted an investigation in Wisconsin into possible illegal coordination between Governor Scott Walker's campaign and special interest groups in 2011 and 2012 elections.
| Oct 10, 2014
| 3:13 PM
The Supreme Court cleared the way Friday for gay marriages to begin in Idaho by lifting a temporary order from earlier this week.
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| Nov 1, 2014
| 12:00 PM
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The record of the Republican from Staten...
| Nov 5, 2014
| 4:01 AM
Wisconsin Republican Governor Scott Walker has won re-election, Reuters/Ipsos projected on Tuesday, prevailing in a tough fight against Democratic challenger Mary Burke.
Walker, 47, a conservative Tea Party favorite considered to have presidential...
| Nov 1, 2014
| 1:43 PM
The record-setting $200 million race for governor and a constitutional amendment to legalize medical marijuana have pumped up the stakes for Tuesday's election, but many voters still may stay away.
It's a mid-term election — the kind that people...
| Oct 27, 2014
| 2:16 PM
The federal government announced new guidelines Monday for monitoring healthcare workers returning from West Africa that are far less restrictive than the quarantines that some states put in place for aid workers at risk of contracting Ebola.


Classification and Compensation
IOWA STATE BOARD OF REGENTS
REGENTS MERIT SYSTEM
Pay Grade: 411
General Class Description
Under general supervision works on motor starters, motor control centers, battery systems, instrumentation and control systems. Installs, maintains, calibrates and repairs electronic, electrical and pneumatic devices and systems.
Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities
- Installs, maintains, and repairs utility electrical systems (generally less than 600 volts) including circuit breakers, motor starters, protection systems, motor control centers, conduit, cable tray, cable and wiring.
- Installs and maintains safety systems including emergency lighting, fire alarm systems, uninterruptible power systems, station batteries, and utility communications systems.
- Installs, repairs, replaces and calibrates control system equipment and support systems including transmitters, valve actuators, recorders and other sensors.
- Assists with troubleshooting and maintenance of utility control systems including boilers, turbine generators, chillers, and water treatment systems.
- Assists with troubleshooting and maintenance of program logic controller (PLC) based auxiliary systems including material handling, ash handling, compressed air, etc.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of utility systems and equipment.
- Knowledge of tools and methods necessary to troubleshoot and maintain electrical and electronic utility equipment.
- Knowledge of the principles, methods, and techniques used in the electrical and instrumentation and control trades.
- Knowledge of the principles of electronics.
- Knowledge of and ability to interpret local, state, and national electrical codes.
- Knowledge of OSHA regulations and ability to comply with OSHA procedures.
- Ability to read and understand blueprints, control system drawings and repair manuals.
- Ability to perform basic math computations.
- Ability to communicate effectively.
- Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
- Ability to withstand constant high noise, dust, fumes, poor lighting and ventilation, and high temperature levels.
- Physical requirements: Must be able to move and lift at least 80 lbs. Must be able to climb stairs and work in an industrial environment.
- High school diploma or GED.
- Journey-level electrician with four years of experience in utility systems, industrial plant, process plant or power plant with electric motor controls and station power systems. Including at least two years experience in electrical, electronic and/or pneumatic control systems; or
- Graduation from a two-year electrical or instrumentation and control program.


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The world's best freeskiers wrapped up this year's Suzuki Nine Knights event in Italy with Kai Mahler coming out on top in the Big Air competition.
Sixteen-year-old Swiss skier Mahler took home the title ahead of America's Gus Kenworthy in second and fellow Swiss Jonas Hunziker in third. Red Bull's Russ Henshaw finished one place off the podium in fourth.
A double 1080 tweaked mute and double 1260 japan with shifty gave Mahler 196.66 points and the teenager was delighted with the win.
"Today ends the perfect season for me," he said. "I came here and got to ski the perfect feature to try and dial the trick I wanted. I felt like I really had to step it up today with the other great skiers around me – I definitely couldn't take anything easy."
Check out the action in this video...
Elsewhere, Roy Kittler was awarded the 'MVP' award and Tom Wallisch was crowned 'Best Overall Ruler of the Week'.
Suzuki Nine Knights 2012 – Big Air results
1. Kai Mahler 196.66 points
2. Gus Kenworthy 195.99
3. Jonas Hunziker 168.32
4. Russ Henshaw 165.66
5. Roy Kitler 163.62
6. Ben Valentin 160.66
7. Christian Bieri 158.66
8. Colby West 145.33
- Check out the official Nine Knights site
- Take a look at Russ Henshaw's profile page
- More Red Bull Winter Sports

domain: hobby


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Bail is $5,000 for man accused of selling pot near elementary school
The Maui News
WAILUKU — Bail was set at $5,000 for a man who allegedly sold marijuana to undercover police officers near a Lahaina elementary school.
Hardy Ah Puck Jr., 49, who gave no local address, is charged with selling the drug Nov. 9.
He has pleaded not guilty to promoting a controlled substance near a school or public park, second-degree promoting a detrimental drug, third-degree promoting a detrimental drug and possessing drug paraphernalia.
During a court hearing Monday, Deputy Prosecutor Tracy Jones asked that bail remain at $11,000 for Ah Puck, saying his residence and employment weren’t verified and he has a long criminal history.
“It is alleged that he sold marijuana to undercover police officers very near the fence line to King Kamehameha III Elementary School,” Jones said.
The complaint against Ah Puck alleges the drug sale occurred within 750 feet of the school and nearby Banyan Tree Park.
In setting bail for Ah Puck at $5,000, 2nd Circuit Judge Joseph Cardoza said he was taking into consideration the defendant’s limited financial resources, as well as his extensive criminal record spanning about 30 years. Ah Puck reported having a cash-paying job and receiving government assistance, Cardoza said.
“I’m certainly aware of the fact that on a nationwide basis, there is a major initiative underway concerning the matter of bail and alternatives to release on bail,” Cardoza said.
If he posts bail, Ah Puck was ordered to report for supervision and random drug testing.
He was ordered to stay away from King Kamehameha III Elementary School, Banyan Tree Park and streets surrounding the school and park.


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Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, cracking the code on bonds.
Have A Question About This Topic?
Estate strategies for millennials may sound like less of a concern than retirement, but young adults should prepare now.
Roth 401(k) plans combine features of traditional 401(k) plans with those of a Roth IRA.
Individuals have three basic choices with the 401(k) account they accrued at a previous employer.

domain: economics


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Unisync Group wins Image of the Year Award - 2014
Toronto, ON April 9, 2014Canadian-based corporate apparel designer and manufacturer, Unisync Group, has won the industry's highest achievement award for the most fashionable, forward thinking and innovative commercial apparel designs from The North American Association of Uniform Manufacturers & Distributors (NAUMD) in the Restaurant Image category... to view the full article click here.
Proud sponsors of the Ryerson Formula Racing Team!
We are thrilled with the opportunity to partner with Ryerson University's Formula S.A.E. team. The team will be outfitted in our Hammill brand Coveralls and Shopcoats which will provide them with a unified professional look throughout the entire process from build to race, throughout their 2013-2014 season. We wish them the best of luck! click here to view!
Unisync Group Brings Home Three Image of the Year Awards
Toronto, ON April 24, 2013 - Today, Unisync Group, a North American leader in corporate apparel and promotional products, announces it has received three awards from the North-American Association of Uniform Manufacturers & Distributors (NAUMD), the industry's highest achievement. The awards are for three business-changing apparel programs with Unisync clients: The Ottawa Hospital, Rexall, and Girl Guides of Canada-Guides du Canada... to view the full article click here.
Canada's Unisync Makes Custom Look Easy
Over the years, Unisync Group has established itself as a leader in corporate apparel and promotional products in Canada as well as throughout North America, providing more than 3 million employees with their uniforms. The company is headed by Carmin Garofalo, president, and B. James Bottoms, COO, who collectively have more than 50 years of uniform and apparel experience... to view the full article click here.
Unisync Group wins Image of The Year
LAS VEGAS--The North American Association of Uniform
Manufacturers and Distributors (NAUMD) announced the winners
of the Image of the Year Awards during the 2010 NAUMD
Convention & Expo in Las Vegas.
These award programs recognize high achievement in the design,
creation and manufacture of imagewear apparel. This year, a first
time nominee that has been doing incredible things, demonstrated
strength in design to win the Best Uniform of the Year in the highly
competitive CASINO RESORT category. Unisync Group was a clear
winner, having developed a dynamic, functional, and fashion
forward dress worn by the R5 Lounge staff at the Niagara Fallsview
Casino Resort located in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. The
award was accepted on behalf of the Unisync employees by Carmin
Garofalo, President and John Millman, Vice President in Las Vegas.
Page 1 | 2


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Angiologista BH of tumor types originate brought on by or extend into the bottom of the skull, may the sloped area late the eyes and nose cavities that forms any “floor,” or base behind the skull. The neck and back cord, multiple nerves moreover the major blood veins of the brain and in addition head and neck excite through holes (foramina) while the skull base. Not at all all tumors in each of our skull base are cancerous. But even benign tumors can contributing factor symptoms or threaten its health and well-being on the patient.
Because of their whereabouts and proximity some other vital structures, brain base tumors modern unique challenges intended for surgeons. Recent develops in diagnostic to surgical techniques make the area a whole lot more accessible to surgery, providing new treating these patients. Tumour Types Skull backside tumors can nevertheless be classified based in their specific location as head (the unknown growth site) or as per the cell develop and identifying personality of the tumour (the tumor type). Tumors of any skull base can take place within various anatomic sites.
Following is a listing of the most locations for mind base tumors. Anterior Cranial Fossa: for The front associated with the cranial floor, which forms the coverage of the nose cavity and the exact orbits, or to prevent sockets. It can include the area from where the sense of notice is perceived. Meningioma is a not uncommon tumor in this part. Cavernous Sinus: -These two sinuses are stationed below the intellect on either siding of the anterior pituitary gland. Important nerves run through the particular cavernous sinus, just as the internal carotid arteries.
Cranial nerves III, IV, V additionally VI are centered at this region (see table of cranial nerves, below). Cerebellopontine Angle: -The part between the cerebellum (which controls control of movement), the main pons (part on the central nervous human body’s brainstem) and unquestionably the temporal bone. Here space contains number of cranial nerves, particularly nerves designated as well as V through XII (see table created by cranial nerves, below). Acoustic neuroma and moreover meningioma are essentially the most common tumors strategically placed at this world-wide-web site. Clivus: -This bone forms your central portion for the cranial floor.

domain: medical


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Refine Your Search
- Airway Heights
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Out / Inpatient:
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- Partial Hospitalization (Day Treatment)
- Short Term (<30 Days) Residential
- Therapeutic Boarding School
Family Services / Amenities:
Treatment Centers in Washington (WA)
“Welcome to Eating Recovery Center of Washington. Located in Bellevue, a suburb of Seattle, Washington, our multidisciplinary team of professionals delivers cutting-edge medical, psychiatric, psychological and nutritional interventions through a continuum of care that includes Residential, Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient Services. All varieties of eating disorders are treated, including anorexia, bulimia, eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS), binge eating disorder and other atypical eating disorders. Thorough assessment and individualized eating disorder treatment plans ensure that coexisting medical and psychiatric conditions are addressed, including anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, diabetes and substance abuse. Eating Recovery Center of Washington brings together the thought leaders and treatment philosophies of two highly esteemed and widely recognized eating disorder treatment centers-Eating Recovery Center and what was formerly The Moore Center. Today, The Moore Center has been renamed Eating Recovery Center of Washington to more effectively communicate the breadth of services offered at the Washington-based facilities.
“There's no such thing as "normal." As the saying goes, "everyone is normal...until you get to know them." Chances are, you or someone you love will suffer from an imbalanced brain at some point in your life. This may be due to a specific issue, like ADD or anxiety, which may or may not have been diagnosed. Or, it could be the result of years of brain mistreatment that adds up to mental fogginess-something most doctors can't diagnose and can't tell you how to fix. The Amen Clinics methodology can help you learn more about your brain, choose the most appropriate treatment program for your brain, and help you comply with the program using the unique tools only offered at the Amen Clinics.
“The Child Enrichment Center is effectively treating children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD and other developmental delays. Following the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), we develop comprehensive and individualized treatment plans for your child. ABA is not just direct or discrete trial teaching but is a child-centered approach that encompasses the use of all effective and evidence-based teaching methods based on data and visual analysis. Such as, natural environment teaching, pivotal response, verbal behavior training, video modeling, process-based education, social thinking development, therapeutic recreation and much more. Because ABA is medically based in research, insurance coverage is possible.
“ABLE Counseling Services is a leading treatment provider for process (behavioral) addictions including, but not limited to: sex addiction, internet addiction, love/relationship obsession/avoidance, and other compulsive behaviors.
“Pacifica offers substance abuse, chemical dependency and co-occurring treatment for individuals and their families. Our expert staff have extensive experience in both chemical dependency and mental health counseling. Whether it's for yourself or a loved one, Pacifica will tailor a program to fit your specific treatment needs.
“We treat both behavioral/mental health and substance use disorders (Addiction) at the same time at our clinic in Lacey, WA and SOON in LONGVIEW - KELSO area. We also provide treatment for gambling addiction, sex addiction, domestic violence and trauma. Our clinicians are Licensed Marriage & Family Therapists (LMFT), Licensed Mental Health Counselors, and Chemical Dependency Professionals (CDP) in the State of WA. We are an Outpatient Clinic serving Lacey, Olympia, Centralia, Castle Rock, Kelso-Longview and neighboring cities.
“Apple Valley Counseling Services, LLC puts men, women, and teens on the road to recovery with counseling services in Yakima, Washington. Our mission is to serve those whose lives are threatened, disordered, or devastated by the effects of drugs and alcohol,or domestic violence. Apple Valley Counseling Services provides the tools for personal growth and change. We make it possible to channel knowledge into security, convert hope to reality, fulfill dreams, and guide many individuals- and families- along the road to recovery. Contact Apply Valley Counseling Services today to learn more about how we can help you on the path to restoring your life.
“I can help you or your loved one find the appropriate substance abuse treatment option quickly and at no charge. Options include intervention, residential treatment, sober living and outpatient treatment. Local and out of state facilities are available and payment options include commercial insurance, Medicaid, Medicare and private pay. Don't spend countless hours reaching out to facilities, waiting for a return call, only to find out that they don't meet your needs or have no available beds. I can find the appropriate facility based on individual needs and eliminate long and unnecessary waits. Call today!
“Setting the standard of excellence for world-class treatment, Cascade Behavioral Health is a premier provider of behavioral health and substance abuse services. Located in Tukwila, Washington, the staff at Cascade operates from an array of disciplines which assists patients in achieving improved emotional health and freedom from addiction. Comprised of certified chemical dependency professionals, nurses, physicians, psychiatrists, and a board-certified medical addictionologist, Cascade prides itself in providing effective treatment for psychiatric concerns and addiction. With an emphasis on superior customer service that is compassionate, supportive, and caring, the programming at Cascade is geared towards the success of patients in achieving their treatment goals.
“The question, "Why do some people become addicted to drugs while others do not?" is a common one. While a number of risk factors and causes have been associated with the development of various addictions there remains no clear answer to this question. Unfortunately, many people who have never been addicted may think they have the answers, leading to negative stereotypes and stigmas. This can be extremely painful for those fighting an addiction and sometimes even prevent them from seeking care. If you are suffering with an addiction you have likely experienced negative consequences related to your problem, along with negative self-judgments about trying to quit but not being successful. You also may have experienced problems with relationships perhaps leading to social isolation, and feelings of hopelessness about the improvement of your future, resulting in a sense of helplessness over your perceived inability to make positive changes in your life. You don't have to feel alone anymore. At Cascade we can help you uncover the strengths within you and show you ways to use these internal resources to successfully battle your addiction so you can start down the road to a healthy, happy life.
“Nystrom & Associates, Ltd. (NAL) is a group of professional Christian counselors from the fields of psychology, clinical social work, marriage and family therapy, nursing, and psychiatry who are committed to helping individuals and families that are experiencing personal, emotional, marital, or psychological problems. We also offer an intensive outpatient chemical dependency program, DBT, psychological testing and medication management services. Licensed by the State of Minnesota and the State of Washington
“Research is revealing that the secret to long-term happiness is found in the health of one's relationships. We take this information to heart at Family Therapy and Recovery and believe that all relationships, especially the one between you and your therapist need to promote health. We pay close attention to your individual needs regardless of whatever circumstances have brought you to our agency. Our well trained and highly skilled staff offer a broad range of behavioral health services. The decision to make the first call can be a difficult one. Our staff will take the time to make sure that you are connected with the service that best fits your needs. Call us today to schedule your first appointment or request a phone consultation.
“Our goal at Alternative Counseling is to provide a variety of quality treatment services at reasonable rates. We understand that people suffer from a wide variety of self-destructive behaviors and that each person is unique with unique treatment needs. At Alternative Counseling, we strive to provide the latest in evidence-based treatment options. Our professional staff constantly strives to find what works best for each individual and to treat everyone with respect and compassion. We believe behavior is learned, and behaviors learned can be modified or changed. We offer flexible scheduling with evening and weekend appointments and provide help with additional resources such as community self-help programs and other referrals.
“Tried traditional 12-steps programs without success? You're not alone. As a 12 Steps alternative, our program is one of empowerment and personal responsibility - absolutely free of shame and guilt. We integrate conventional psychology and counseling strategies and techniques with the principles of Spiritual Psychology to address and heal underlying core issues which cause the addictive or undesirable behavior. When people authentically work through an underlying core issue, it is forever gone.
“Located in Tukwila, Washington, Cascade Behavioral Health is a specialized treatment center that is dedicated to providing quality care and quality services to everyone who comes to us for help. By offering individualized treatment through three distinct programs, Cascade Behavioral Health is able to ensure that our patients receive the most comprehensive levels of care available. We strive to deliver treatment that stands out from our competitors in its longevity, in its repetition, and in its effectiveness, with our primary goal being to obtain the highest level of patient satisfaction. Our multidisciplinary team of qualified professionals promote an environment that is supportive, caring, and compassionate for our patients as they begin walking down the path to healing and ultimate recovery. When you come to Cascade Behavioral Health for treatment, you can rest assured that you will be provided with excellent care and unmatched customer service as you regain hope for your future.
“Excelsior Youth Center is a nonprofit, private agency, located in north Spokane, Washington. For over 30 years we have provided comprehensive behavioral health services (mental health & substance use services) to youth (males and females ages 10-21) and their families through several programs, both inpatient and outpatient. In an effort to serve the whole person, not just a presenting problem, we provide a holistic approach offering specialized services to all individuals, regardless of the program. Multidisciplinary and dual-licensed teams across all programs are combined weekly to consult and ensure they are providing the best possible psychiatric, mental health and substance use services. Individuals experiencing co-occurring issues (any combination of two or more mental health and substance use issues) will find specialists in many fields are available in all programs. Excelsior Youth Center maintains a 55,000 square foot facility and a thirty-four acre site with several outdoor courtyards, sports fields, gardens, recreation courts, swimming pool, gymnasium, hiking trails and more. An onsite medical department and fully accredited Junior and Senior High School ensure the medical and educational needs of residents are met. Please visit our website to learn more about our programs and services. www.excelsioryouthcenter.com
“Have you wanted to seek counseling for yourself, children, marriage or family, but were afraid that your religious beliefs might be ignored or discounted? The therapists at The Shepherd's Center seek to treat the whole person in ways that honor and take into account your spiritual beliefs while maintaining professional standards in the field of counseling. Each of our eleven therapists have unique skills to offer from a variety of disciplines. Most likely, one of our counselors will be a terrific fit for you and/or your family's needs. We work with individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents. We are each private practice counselors who offer out-patient services only. Check out our web site at: www.theshepherdscenter.com, or give us a call: 253-858-2224 x304 and ask for Liz
“Ours is a very unique program for people with eating disorders, depression, anxiety and other social/interpersonal misalignments. We offer a revolutionary new treatment modality called Relational Exchange Therapy, coupled with movement and experiential therapy.
“We can help you!!! We have an experienced staff of therapists at Hopetree who know how to treat eating disorders and the other problems that often come with them such as anxiety, depression, cutting, alcohol abuse & more. We are dedicated to keeping up with the latest treatments available for eating, food and body image issues so that we can help you. We believe hope and growth are key elements to lasting life change. We are dedicated to offering you both so you can become all you were designed to be and to better love yourself, God and others in the process. We offer eating disorder treatment for teens, adults, women and men. We also have a dietitian on staff for a team approach. Individual and group therapy is available..
“www.eastsidecenterforfamily.com | blog.eastsidetherapists.com Eastside Center For Family is licensed with the Division of Behavioral Health Recovery to provide chemical dependency treatment. Counselors are Licensed Mental Health Counselors and Chemical Dependency Professionals. Our specialty is treating each member of the family experiencing the affects of addiction and mental health disorders. We work with the addicted person as well as their family. We are experienced in addiction, grief, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder. We have a child therapist on board who also specializes in parent coaching, a psychotherapist with 25 years of addiction and mental health counseling experience and a chemical dependency professionals with 2 to 20 years of addiction counseling experience.
Inpatient or Outpatient Treatment
INPATIENT TREATMENT: WHAT'S INVOLVED?
Residential Inpatient treatment in Washington (WA) usually consists of 24 hour care at a live-in facility. Full treatment services, including medical and behavioral therapy are provided all at one location near Washington (WA).
Medical supervision is generally placed over each resident. In drug treatment centers, clients can detox safely. In eating disorder centers in Washington (WA), residential programs enable effective monitoring of the client's health during the treatment program.
Inpatient care offers a structured atmosphere and allows the client and providers to focus on physical and psychological healing.
OUTPATIENT TREATMENT: WHAT'S INVOLVED?
Outpatient treatment programs in Washington (WA) or clinics provide flexibility to those who are unable to take time away from their regular lives, work or school. Programs typically meet at the clinic a couple of times every week for a few hours at a time.
Because clients are living away from the centers, outpatient facilities in Washington (WA) are less able to focus on medical conditions and nutritional needs.
Certain programs provide a combination of the in/out approach: Inpatient for medical stabilization, partial hospitalization for moderate cases, intensive outpatient programs, and outpatient clinics for follow-up.
INPATIENT OR OUTPATIENT: WHAT'S RIGHT FOR ME?
* How much can you afford? Generally, Washington (WA) outpatient treatment is cheaper than inpatient treatment because housing is not provided and fewer hours of treatment (and often fewer therapy alternatives) are offered.
* Are you able to control your behaviors? Inpatient treatment provides constant supervision to offset the temptation of drugs or eating disordered behavior in the early stages of treatment.
* Follow-up support network near Washington (WA)? If you do decide to attend inpatient treatment, look for a center that can offer you or direct you to another service where you will be provided with follow-up care after you leave in an effort to avoid relapse.
* Is your condition severe? Constant medical attention is given to those in inpatient care, which may be especially important for those with pain and eating disorders.
How Treatment Centers Can Help
ALCOHOL AND DRUG REHAB
Treatment centers in Washington (WA) help clients with substance abuse issues, drug abuse and pain treatment. Drug detox or alcohol detox is the first step on the road to recovery from drug addiction or alcohol addiction and a clean life. After detoxing, the rehabilitation process can begin.
EATING DISORDER TREATMENT
Eating Disorder treatment centers in Washington (WA) help treat a range of problem eating and food issues such as childhood feeding disorders, food avoidance, obesity, Anorexia, Bulimia or compulsive overeating, binge eating, night eating and body image issues. They address the destructive behaviors and underlying emotional issues of disordered eating. Their programs can include family involvement and are designed to help patients in Washington (WA) develop the skills they need to make lifelong change. Programs incorporate dietary counseling and nutritional education and may be supervised by a therapist, medical director, nurse and dietitian.


Rs. 200.00 Incl. taxes
Car Wash Micro Fibre Towel
AutoSardar’s Car Microfibre Towel
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An extremely soft and durable lint free microfibre cloth specially blended from polyester and polyamide to give an instant smear free finish. Autosardar superior microfiber cloth is not only first class on all vehicle surfaces but eco friendly.
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A truly outstanding, high quality microfiber towel with a superior tight weave and double stitched along the edges to ensure they last. Containing over 90,000 fibres per square inch, this unique round-edged professional 40 x 40 cm, 400 GSM microfiber cloth effortlessly cleans, polishes, shines, retains dirt and grime, whilst providing an unrivaled all round performance.
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Returns : 100% Refunded


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Video Length: 39 Minutes
Through a partnership with Best Friends Animal Society, Austin Pets Alive! embarked on a six-month pilot program to test the effectiveness of Canine Good Citizen Training on adoption rates. The results have been jaw-dropping and show a clear adoption rate and length of stay difference between dogs that participate in this program and those that don't.
Come learn about the CGC-Ready Program and how it runs. Learn how one person oversees a team of volunteers to train and find homes for hundreds of dogs every year. This is well worth your time if you rescue dogs that are big, hyper, and unmannered and operate a big shelter. Austin Pets Alive's CGC-Ready Program has become a hallmark of Austin's No-Kill success.
This presentation was recorded at the 2018 American Pets Alive! Conference.
Carrie started volunteering at Austin Pets Alive! in 2011, lending her skills in photojournalism to the dog marketing team and working in the neonatal kitten nursery. She joined the APA! staff in 2012 as a Dog Matchmaker, helping potential adopters find the dog that will be the best fit for them.
Discovering a passion for working hands-on with dogs and a desire to learn more about canine needs and behavior, she soon moved on to become an APA! dog adoption counselor. Carrie was very interested in the Dogs Playing for Life Program and loved how playgroup positively impacted the dogs at APA. She wanted to learn more about the program and dog behavior and in 2013, Carrie was invited to become a member of APA!'s dog behavior team. With the behavior team she was able to focus on daily training of APA!'s most behaviorally challenged dogs and learned to run playgroups.
In 2015 she became the Canine Good Citizen Program Coordinator. She loves helping each dog reach its full potential through training and showing people how amazing the dogs of APA! are.

domain: pet


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Passover vs Easter
Did you know that the reason Easter is separated from Passover was that the early Church fathers wanted nothing to do with ‘the perfidy of the Jews’ and therefore set their own date?
This is sad to consider, as the Passover brings out great truths for us about our Master and points the Jewish people to Him as well. Sadly the early Church fathers also ex-communicated those who still chose to celebrate Passover and declared a curse on them!
The Church has lost so much as we have gone away from the Passover celebration.
Join me as we research the ancient roots of our faith.
Director Olive Tree Ministries
How To Celebrate Passover
Our local congregation Kingdom Church on the Gold Coast have released a 100 page high quality booklet on the Passover – for FREE.
The Passover to Pentecost book is a comprehensive guide for those who are looking to start that journey and understand more about the feasts of the Lord. This book doesn’t pretend that you know everything, it doesn’t assume you know Hebrew and has been written so that even a child could pick up this book and understand.
From the nuts and bolts of Passover, shopping lists, how to set the Passover table, a detailed calendar of the season and all the way through to Pentecost, you are covered and have the right tools for your journey. This book also includes:
- Instructions and explanations on the Feasts of the Lord
- HOW-TO detailed explanations with pictures
- Links to audio playlists
- Countdown to Pentecost
An outstanding resource to give in depth explanations of the Passover and its connection to our faith as believers is Hebrew 4 Christians.
The best book on this topic, is called ‘The Feasts of the Lord’ by Marvin Rosenthal.
Here is the Amazon link:
- Passover in Jesus' day
- Was Passover a Sin Offering or a Peace Offering?
- The Seating Order of the Last Supper
Join us as we study the correlation between the events of the annual Passover celebration – set in place 1500 years before Jesus, to the final events of His life on earth.
The Passover sacrifice has 5 fundamental differences between it and the Sin Offering.
However, the Passover sacrifice is very close to a totally different kind of offering – learn more in this video with Messianic understanding into the Passover!
Discover the special rules and customs that governed the seating at the Last Supper – including the seat for the bodyguard, the guest of honour and the lowest seat in the house – and discover how the table seating was a final test of the hearts of Jesus’ disciples.

domain: library


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I am currently finishing up a book called “Cheap: The High Cost of Discount Culture” by Ellen Ruppel Shell, and wanted to let you know about it. For anyone concerned about the invasion of the big box stores in our country, the decline of mom & pop stores, and of real craftspeople, this book is for you. Shell is a a correspondent for the Atlantic Monthly and professor of science journalism at Boston University, and her credentials are definitely seen in this book – it is well researched and full of eye-opening information… all without being judgmental. The costs of our desire for “cheap” are high and are slowly creeping into every aspect of our lives – blighted landscapes, high unemployment, the demise of small, personal stores, a huge trade deficit, and mountains of disposable goods.
While most books about our discount culture focus on Walmart, Shell actually tends to focus more on the household giant IKEA, purveyor of incredibly inexpensive “disposable” furniture. Walmart is an easy target, as there is plenty of information out there about just how much damage they inflict on our communities. (You know how I love to talk smack about Walmart!) But IKEA is one that is rarely discussed, and Shell does a good job of explaining how they fly under the radar while selling us on cheap design. In regards to a table that is being sold at IKEA for $69, she has this to say:
I asked a master furniture maker what he thought of this, and he responded with awe. “It’s mind-boggling,” he said. “I couldn’t buy the wood for that price, let alone build the thing.”
That pretty much sums up the IKEA story – cheaply made goods meant to be replaced every few years. Inexpensive design for the masses at questionable environmental costs. But before you think I am above falling for it, I will fully admit that I’m not innocent myself – I have shopped and probably will shop again in an IKEA store (albeit not for furniture anymore). I love reading their catalog and walking through their showroom, as most people do. However, I will give some extra thought to buying anything there from now on, after reading this book. I recently bought a desk made from wood and steel, handmade by a craftsman in Minnesota, who even signed his name on the underside of the unit. It weighs a ton, is solid as a rock, and will last seemingly forever. I paid a good deal for this desk, but I know he was paid well and I received a well-built piece of furniture that will never need fixing or disposing of – both things I can feel good about.
Just so you know, the book is not all about IKEA – far from it. It’s about the culture of discount, or bargain, that we are creating for ourselves. At the end of the day, our need for lower costs/cheaper goods leads to lower wages for our neighbors and a lower quality of goods – and this is not a trade-off we should be willing to make. Check out this book if you get a chance and are concerned about the high cost of discount goods. Cheap: The High Cost of Discount Culture


Texans | Cook a game-time decision for Week 13
Houston Texans FB Jameel Cook (knee) practiced Friday, Dec. 1, and will be a game-time decision for Week 13.
2006-12-01 13:56:53 | Source:
Access more Jameel Cook news and rumors by clicking here....
For additional NFL information, please view KFFL's NFL Hot off the Wire.


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Matching gold rings say Jen and her man are more than just friends
He only spoke about the romance publicly for the first time earlier this month.
But Jennifer Aniston’s relationship with actor Justin Theroux seems to be pretty serious – at least if the matching rings are anything to go by.
The former Friends star, 42, began wearing the gold band on her ring finger a few weeks ago and now Theroux, 39, has followed suit.
Golden couple: Miss Aniston with chunky ring and watch in New York and Justin Theroux, right, with a perfect match
The couple were spotted walking in New York last week wearing the chunky gold rings for all to see, along with what appeared to be matching gold watches.
There was no confirmation last night from either party as to whether they have actually become engaged.
The bulky jewel is a far cry from the elegant $500,000 diamond swirl engagement ring from Brad Pitt that she last wore on that finger.
Heavy hardware: Jennifer Aniston first showed off the gold ring on her wedding finger at the Spike TV's Guys Choice Awards on June 4
Bling: The actress proudly displayed the accessory... and her boyfriend Justin Theroux was seen wearing a matching band days later
Theroux – the cousin of British TV presenter Louis Theroux – is also reported to have moved into Miss Aniston’s Hollywood mansion.
‘He’s living at her place in LA,’ an insider told American magazine US Weekly. ‘And she’s introducing him as her boyfriend.’
It came during a tumultuous week for the pair – with Miss Aniston being branded a ‘home wrecker’ after Theroux’s long-time girlfriend Heidi Bivens revealed that she had only moved out of the couple’s house the previous weekend.
Together: Jen with Justin at the MTV Movie Awards after party on June 4
Costume designer Miss Bivens is understood to be devastated over the new romance.
Miss Aniston met Theroux last autumn when they shot the film Wanderlust together, and the pair made their first public outing at the beginning of June at an awards ceremony after-party in LA.
They have been spotted on dates at various Hollywood haunts, but have largely avoided being photographed together.
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domain: celebrity


It already is one of our favorite 150 cc motorcycles in the market. However, to extend its appeal towards a larger audience, a fully faired Suzuki Gixxer SF will be launched on April 7, 2015. Expected to be only cosmetically different than its naked cousin, the Gixxer SF will carry MotoGp inspired livery on the fairing, as it also happens to be the year when the manufacturer makes a comeback to the sport.
Mechanically similar to the Gixxer 155, the SF will will be powered by the same 154.9cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, 2-valve motor that churns out 14.8 PS of power at 8000 RPM and 14 Nm of torque at 6000 RPM, paired to a 5-speed gearbox. We wouldn’t be surprised though if the engine is tuned differently on the SF for a better top-end. Although faired, it skimps on other sporty bits like clip-ons or foot-pegs set further away to lend it a more sportier stance. A fun motorcycle for the streets, with some added wind protection and a relatively comfortable riding position, the Suzuki Gixxer SF should have that slight edge over its street fighter cousin, when it comes to some weekend highway cruising. Expect Suzuki to charge a slight premium over the Gixxer 155 for the added cosmetic bits.


Clarity Q90D Portable TTY
Cell phone compatible
Full size keyboard
- Gives you the freedom to communicate from almost anywhere.
- Use at home or in your office. Hook up to your cellular phone, and the Q90 will set you free to make your TTY calls in the car, while sunning by the pool, or from anywhere you choose.
On the go or at home, Q90 owners will also appreciate its many other advanced features:
- Backlit two-line, 48-character display tilts for optimum viewing angle so that it is easy to follow conversations.
- Full-size keyboard has a generous 68 keys and uses laptop computer design for easy typing.
The Clarity Q90 is packed with even more features, including
- Bright visual ring flasher announces incoming calls, including cell phone calls.
- One-touch buttons send "HaHaHa," "(Smile)," "Hello GA," and "Pls Hold" phrases.
- Built-in microphone for hands-free Voice Carry Over (VCO ) calls.
- Convenient Hearing Carry Over (HCO ) calls with optional speaker or personal tape player-style headset.
- Audible ringer for HCO calls.
- Two user-programmable text greeting messages.
- Redial and hold, plus flash functions for call transfer, three-way calls, call waiting, and other special phone-company calling options.
- Dials dedicated number with one touch.
- Call progress display and interrupt feature.
- Connects to most computer printers so that you can print conversations.
- Sticky keys make it easy to use with one hand.
- Long-lasting rechargeable batteries with AC adapter (included).
- Transfer calls easily to another TTY on the same phone line.
- "Wait for response" signals when typing resumes after you've been put on hold.
- Phone directory with 24 names and numbers.
- One-year mfg. warranty.
Clarity TTY Phone has 1 user rating out of 5 stars
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60V Bike Handle Brush Cutter 40 cm
The Greenworks GD60BCB is a powerful cordless brush cutter ideal for medium to large gardens thanks to a large 40cm cutting width, variable speed function, and ergonomic bike handles. The 60V battery is interchangeable with all 60V tools.
60V Brush Cutter – 40cm Cutting Width and Ergonomic Bike Handle
The Greenworks GD60BCB is a lightweight yet exceptionally powerful brush cutter designed for medium to large sized lawns. Powered by an advanced 60V lithium-ion battery the machine offers impressive performance and long runtimes, making it a true petrol alternative, without the emissions, vibration or noise.
Featuring a variable speed trigger, giving you total control over the power you need, when you need it. Fully adjustable bike handle ensures user comfort and the split shaft design makes storage easy after use.
Powerful & Efficient
60V battery power offers exceptional performance and the brushless motor ensures a long life and extended runtimes compared to brushed motors. The dual speed feature allows you to choose from high or low speeds depending on the task, further extending battery runtimes during use.
Comfort and Control
The GD60BCB has a fully adjustable bike handle along with a full body harness. The benefit being the weight of the machine is evenly distributed across the shoulders instead of the arms. This dramatically reduces fatigue and gives much more control during use.
Grass Trimming and Brush Cutting
The GD60BCB is suited to medium and large sized gardens with a large 40cm cutting width dual line nylon cutter head with auto bump feed. When you need more cutter line, simply tap the head on the floor while in use and the cord will extend to its correct length. For heavier growth simply fit the metal blade to clear areas with ease.
- Durable and efficient brushless motor
- Total control thanks to variable speed
- Less fatigue thanks to bike handle and body harness
- Easily store in a garden shed or garage
- Petrol performance
- No emissions
- Quiet and low vibration operation
- No fuel or cables to worry about.
- Lower running & maintenance costs than petrol equivalents
- Interchangeable battery system – 1 battery, multiple applications
- Peace of mind - Comprehensive 3 year warranty
- Cutting width
- 40 cm
- Line diameter
- 2 mm
- Line feeding system
- Dual line
- Runtime (4Ah)
- < 50 min
- 4,5 kg


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Pineapple Yogurt Makeover
There is no question about it. I am a sucker for commercials telling me how healthy a product is. The next time I'm in the store I run to these things to check out how great they are and how awesome they will make my life. I have done this a few times with the new Greek yogurt fad. However, when I roll the container over to check out the nutritional facts, the delusions of healthy snacks tend to go down the tube. Some vareties are great for you but taste...bad. Others sound very tasty but have only a few nutritional difference from ice cream.
Part of the sensation over Greek yogurt is its thick and creamy texture. Not to mention it has twice the protein of regular yogurt. Both of these benefits come from the straining process. Yogurt is made from milk treated with natural bacteria and cultures. Once it curdles, some of the liquid is strained off. Many Eastern cultures have enjoyed a thicker version of our regular yogurt for centuries. So how can we experience the best of Greek yogurt with the usual sugary taste we have accustomed ourselves to? Make it yourself, silly! It is a few steps, but all of them are easy. Seriously, just try it once.
1 2lb container of plain, non fat yogurt
1/2 cup pineapple juice concentrate
1 teaspoon vanilla
First, make sure the yogurt is fresh. If it is not, it will affect the taste and the active cultures in it. Also make sure all the tools you will be using are very, very clean.
Take a sieve and place it over a large bowl. You need the strainer to sit above the bottom of the bowl at least an inch.
Place 1 large paper towel piece in the strainer. it should make about 1 layer. Make sure it covers the whole sieve or else the yogurt will leak out. Ewwwwwwww.
Gently put all of the yogurt into the strainer. Cover this with plastic wrap tightly and leave it in the refrigerator at least over night. I like to do this for about 24 hours.
Ta-da! This is what the yogurt should look like when it is done. If you want a thicker yogurt, keep it over the sieve for a bit longer. Just make sure it stays covered to avoid spoiling the cultures. You could end the process here and use this in savory dishes or dips. I would consider this to still be in the "plain and icky" phase. Let's fix that!
Add in 1/2 cup (or less depending on your preferences) of pineapple juice concentrate that has been thawed as well as the 1 teaspoon of vanilla. I like to stir this up and let it hang out in the fridge for a while.Juice concentrates are a great choice for this since they are really intense and flavorful. Not to mention all the sweetness is from 100% juice. You could also choose apple, grape, orange or whatever flavor you like.
I like this just as is, sprinkled with granola or even in a parfait. Come back on Thursday to see my Tropical Fruit Parfait!

domain: food


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Howard Stern playing with cats is one of the amusing features of his wife Beth Stern's Instagram feed
The New Yorker delves into Hallmark Channel Kitten Bowl host Beth Stern's Instagram feed, which is packed with kittens and cats that she is fostering with the help of her shock jock husband. Beth Stern Instagram videos feature her husband petting foster kittens and playing with the kittens while also grooming his own cats.
- Howard Stern's infamous MTV VMAs Fartman costume is up for auction
- Norm Macdonald gets into more trouble with Down Syndrome comment in reaction to the #MeToo backlash
- Norm Macdonald: The Tonight Show wanted me to apologize for my controversial #MeToo comments
- Howard Stern is reportedly coming out with a tell-all book next month

domain: entertainment


URPS, in association with ASPECT Studios, is delighted to be working with the community to create Glenthorne National Park.
This is a fantastic opportunity to preserve and revitalise a large open space area in Adelaide’s southern suburbs, turning it into a thriving environmental and recreational precinct. The proposed park will cover more than 1,500 hectares – bigger than Belair National Park – including the Glenthorne property, O’Halloran Hill Recreation Park, Marino Conservation Park, Hallett Cove Conservation Park, Happy Valley Reservoir and areas of the Field River Valley.
The participation of the local community, which has already been involved in planning for the area over many years, is very important. The community will be able to access the Glenthorne property for the first time, gain more information and share ideas about the creation of Glenthorne National Park during three open days in April.
Take a stroll around the event village, enjoy snacks and refreshments available from vendors, and get to know the passionate people who are helping to create this exciting new place.
Come and meet us at the Feedback Hub and share your ideas about the activities and facilities you’d like to enjoy in this new national park!
- Event details: April 5-7, 12.30pm – 4.30pm.
- The Glenthorne property is located at 5B Majors Road, O’Halloran Hill.
For more information, please visit the Glenthorne National Park’s official website (https://www.glenthorne.sa.gov.au/home).
If you can’t attend an open day, please share your ideas by submitting an online feedback form (https://www.glenthorne.sa.gov.au/get-involved/feedback).