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California air regulators have unanimously passed sweeping auto emission standards that include a mandate to have 1.4 million electric and hybrid vehicles on state roads by 2025.
The United Nations’ top climate change official joined Gov. Jerry Brown in San Francisco for a conference addressing the costs associated with preparing for the effects of a warming world.
California formally adopted the nation’s most comprehensive so-called “cap-and-trade” system Thursday, an experiment designed to provide financial incentives for polluters to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is touting the Golden State to the U.N. as a leader for its climate change initiatives.
What are you serving for dinner tonight? If it’s meat, some public health experts hope to change your menu at the start of the workweek.
The sighting of a gray whale off the coast of Israel has scientists concerned about what it could mean for climate change.
A judge temporarily halted California’s ambitious program to provide financial incentives for the state’s largest polluters to cut harmful greenhouse gas emissions.
The highest tides of the year sent waves crashing over the Embarcadero in San Francisco Thursday, and environmentalists say that could be a daily occurrence in the future.
A new bipartisan coalition report has urged California to take a leadership role in reducing oil dependence.
State air quality regulators must conduct further analysis before fully implementing California’s landmark 2006 climate law, a trial court judge has said.


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Contemporary Impressionism Landscape Clouds Oil Painting
Watching the Rain oil on panel 6x6 inch2019 I remember as a child in elementary school I had a teacher that suggested we use as many colors in our crayon box in one drawing as...
3 hours ago - Heidi Malott
Driftwood Animals and Beach Homes by Kirsty Elson Give New Life to Elements From the Sea
Multi-media artist Kirsty Elson uses the bits of driftwood, shells, and other seaside scraps in her home in Cornwall, England to produce unique sculptures that imitate the...
3 hours ago - Colossal
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Via Anera's February 11 Facebook video, I was introduced to this 12-year old Palestinian, Hatem, who lives in Burj Shemali Refugee camp in South Lebanon. I was taken aback by...
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What's on TV Wednesday: ‘American Factory' and ‘School Girls'
A Netflix documentary looks at cultural and political complications at a glass factory. And an Off Broadway play is streaming.
16 hours ago - NY Times
Beach Reflections, 15 x 30, oil on panel, L. Daniel © 2019Painted for solo show, "Beaches, Birds, and Botanicals" Available at the Anderson Fine Art Gallery Another title for...
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My good friend Matthew Wong is exhibiting some beautiful flower paintings at Resobox in Queens, NY. ChiFung's works feature refined botanical designs over gold or silver...
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Giancarlo Mazzanti on Social Spaces for Learning
© Felipe Rueda PLANE-SITE has released a new film showcasing the work and ideas of Bogotá-based architect Giancarlo Mazzanti , founder of El Equipo de Mazzanti. In this video...
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Brandon Wolf: Dru's Lesson
This post is about the shooting that took place at the Pulse Nightclub on June 12, 2016. It contains difficult content, so please do not read on if you feel you may be...
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Silent Silhouettes, 20 x 20, oil on canvas, L. Daniel © 2019Sold in solo show, "Beaches, Birds and Botanicals"Anderson Fine Art Gallery I caught this egret just as the day was...
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The headlines of Artwork Mag
the only astronaut we can invite home !!
The Last Trip
we will all take this trip one day -
Estasi di Santa Teresa
Gian Lorenzo Bernini
Felix Kreutzer, Moonlit coastal scene
Date: Unknown Technique: Oil on canvas, 62 x 94 cm Source
Sony Quietly Raised the Price of the 135mm f/1.8 GM Lens by $200
This past weekend, Sony quietly increased the price of its exceptionally sharp 135mm f/1.8 G Master lens by $200, raising the price from $1,898 to $2,098 overnight without any...
The Compound House / March Studio
© Peter Bennetts Architects: March Studio Location: Melbourne, Australia Category: Houses Lead Architects: Rodney Eggleston Area: 850.0 m2 Project Year: 2017 Photographs: Peter...
White House / Bossley Architects
© Patrick Reynolds Architects: Bossley Architects Location: Auckland, New Zealand Category: Houses Lead Architects: Pete Bossley, Finn Scott, Lynley Millar Area: 488.0...
Mark Webster - Mandy on the Staircase - Abstract Geometric Figurative Painting
Mark Webster - Mandy on the Staircase - Abstract Geometric Figurative Painting. 48x30" Oil on Canvas. Check Availability MarkAdamWebster.com
"Peaceful Courtyard" Oil Painting by Contemporary Impressionist Niki Gulley
"Peaceful Courtyard" ©2019 Niki GulleySOLD • 12" x 9" oil painting Cinque Terre and Lake Como Art Trek with Niki Gulley and Scott WilliamsDay 1: Monterosso / the 5 Village...
‘Best of Weddings' Award-Winning Photog Sued by Multiple Couples
A multiple-award-winning Florida wedding photographer is being called out by the local news after multiple couples have sued him, claiming he failed to delivered the photos and...
Courtyard Residence in Benimaclet / Gradolí & Sanz
© Mariela Apollonio Architects: Gradolí & Sanz Location: València, Spain Category: Houses Architect In Charge: Carmel Gradolí, Arturo Sanz Area: 108.0 m2 Project Year...
Patina, Contemporary Art, Abstract Mixed Media Painting “Follow the Path“ by...
FRESH OFF THE EASEL... This painting evokes the patina of old metal. The spiral is made from old Japanese texts and the texture is heavily bubbled Tyvek. So many acrylic layers...

domain: artistic


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Situated in Las Vegas, this castle is within 6 mi (10 km) of St. Rose Dominican Hospital, Southern Highlands Golf Club, and Las Vegas South Premium Outlets. T-Mobile Arena and MGM Grand Casino are also within 9 mi (15 km).
Unique Romantic Hideaway a Living Canvas Every Inch Hand Crafted Retreat
Situated in Chepachet, this castle is within 12 mi (20 km) of Wide World of Indoor Sports, Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, and Mowry Conservation Area. Buck Hill Management Area and Blissful Meadows Golf Club are also within 12 mi (20 km).
It was ok, family friendly. I know its an older hotel and casino. Upgrading the elevators would be great as well as making self parking not as far to walk from. Have little shuttle to the parking structure would be great.
*Price based on the lowest price found within past 24 hours and based upon one night stay for two adults over the next thirty days. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

domain: geography


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The Benefits of Coenzyme Q10 (COQ10) for Fertility
What is Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)?
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), also known as ubiquinone, is a naturally occurring compound found in every cell of the human body. It plays a crucial role in the production of energy within cells and acts as a powerful antioxidant. CoQ10 is particularly concentrated in organs with high energy requirements, such as the heart, liver, and kidneys.
The importance of CoQ10
The key function of CoQ10 is energy production. It helps the enzymes in our bodies to carry out their functions efficiently by producing energy in our cells. These enzymes are important as they are proteins that facilitate various chemical reactions in the body, and they are essential for our overall health.
More specifically, CoQ10 plays a role in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is often referred to as the "energy currency" of our cells. ATP provides the energy needed for various cellular processes, including muscle contractions, cell division, and maintenance of vital organs.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and Fertility
CoQ10 is like a little power booster that helps the cells produce more ATP efficiently. Without enough CoQ10, our cells may not have enough energy to function sufficiently, affecting our health and well-being. Recently, the importance of CoQ10 has been linked to treating fertility problems in both men and women as it has been showing promising results.
Benefits of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation for fertility in women and men
CoQ10 is gaining attention due to its link with fertility. Systematic reviews suggest that CoQ10 levels in the body can have a direct impact on fertility, particularly in women. As women age, their CoQ10 levels tend to decline, which can affect egg quality and overall reproductive health.
A study found that women who were given CoQ10 showed a significantly higher fertilisation rate (67.9%) and more high quality embryos compared to women who did not take CoQ10. Therefore, CoQ10 helps to protect the eggs from oxidative damage and supports their energy production, which is vital for successful fertilisation and healthy embryo development. Therefore, maintaining optimal CoQ10 levels may enhance fertility outcomes for women trying to conceive.
A systematic review of male infertility and CoQ10 emphasises the beneficial effects it has on semen parameters. Sperm cells require substantial amounts of energy to swim and fertilise an egg. CoQ10 supports this energy production and helps to maintain sperm health and motility. Research has shown that supplementing with CoQ10 can improve sperm quality, including sperm count, morphology (shape), and motility. Additionally, CoQ10's antioxidant properties can protect sperm from oxidative damage, which can negatively impact fertility.
By incorporating CoQ10 into their daily routine, both men and women can potentially enhance their fertility by supporting healthy reproductive function and optimising energy production at the cellular level.
CoQ10 for PCOS fertility issues
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. PCOS can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, ovarian cysts, and difficulties in conceiving. Unfortunately, women with PCOS tend to have lower levels of CoQ10, which can impact their reproductive health.
By supplementing with CoQ10, individuals with PCOS can potentially improve their egg quality, ovulation, and overall fertility success. CoQ10 helps protect eggs from oxidative stress, supports healthy energy production within the ovaries, and may even enhance the effectiveness of fertility treatments. Incorporating CoQ10 supplements into a comprehensive PCOS management plan can be a successful, natural and effective approach to boost fertility.
CoQ10 for Endometriosis-related fertility issues
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, causing pain and fertility problems. Research suggests that CoQ10 supplementation may benefit women with endometriosis by improving egg quality and ovarian function. It can help counteract oxidative stress, a common factor in endometriosis, which can lead to cellular damage and impaired fertility. By reducing oxidative stress and promoting healthy cell function, CoQ10 can potentially enhance fertility and increase the likelihood of successful conception for women with endometriosis.
Recommended CoQ10 dosage for fertility
The recommended dosage of CoQ10 for fertility varies, but a common recommendation based on studies use around 200-600 milligrams per day.
Choosing the right CoQ10 to support fertility
When choosing a CoQ10 supplement to support fertility, here are some signs of a good-quality product to consider:
- High-quality ingredients: Look for a supplement that uses high-quality CoQ10 sourced from reputable manufacturers. Check for indications of purity and potency.
- Bioavailability: Research suggests that the best bioavailable form of CoQ10 is ubiquinol.
- Optimal dosage: Ensure that the supplement provides the recommended dosage of CoQ10 for fertility, which is typically around 200-600 milligrams per day. Be cautious of extremely high or low dosages.
- No harmful additives: Check the ingredient list for any potentially harmful additives, fillers, or allergens. Choose a supplement that is free from unnecessary additives and artificial colours or flavours.
- Third-party testing: Look for products that have undergone third-party testing for quality, purity, and accuracy of labelling. This ensures that the supplement meets quality standards and contains the stated amount of CoQ10.
Recommended CoQ10 supplements for fertility
Fertility and COQ10 FAQs
Are there any side effects of taking CoQ10 for fertility?
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is generally considered safe for most individuals when taken at recommended dosages. However, like any supplement, there may be some potential side effects associated with its use. Commonly reported side effects of CoQ10 include mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, stomach upset, or diarrhoea. It's worth noting that these side effects are generally mild and temporary.
Additionally, CoQ10 may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners or chemotherapy drugs, so it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting CoQ10 supplementation, especially if you are taking any medications.
How long should I take CoQ10 before expecting fertility improvements?
The duration of taking CoQ10 before expecting fertility improvements can vary from person to person. While there is no definitive timeline, it is generally recommended to take CoQ10 consistently for at least three to six months before expecting noticeable results. This time frame allows for the supplement to accumulate in the body and potentially support reproductive health.
Can CoQ10 be used as a standalone treatment for infertility?
CoQ10 is often considered as a supplement to support fertility, but it is important to note that it is not typically used as a standalone treatment for infertility. While CoQ10 may have potential benefits for reproductive health, it is usually recommended as part of a comprehensive approach to fertility treatment.
By Panasha Desai, Pharmacist

domain: biology


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Both men have won the World’s Strongest Man competition during their careers, so this is a real clash of the titans and the bout will be the first boxing match for Hall, but the fourth for Bjornsson.
The fight was originally scheduled to take place on September 18, 2021, before Hall sustained a torn left bicep causing him to postpone the bout.
This caused a replacement to be brought in and Devon Larrett was chosen to be that man. The change in opponent ended well for Thor, who defeated his new adversary in the first round by technical knockout.
Hall, known as The Beast, shouldn’t be taken lightly, though. He may be new to boxing, but he did set a new world record in deadlifting at the 2016 Europe’s Strongest Man competition, lifting 500kg (1102 lbs). However, quite fittingly, that record was beaten in 2020 when Thor himself lifted 501kg (1105 lbs).
On his YouTube channel of the same name, Hafthor Bjornsson uploaded a video promoting the upcoming fight. In this video he expressed his excitement and his plan for the current day of training. They did shadow boxing, sparring and bag work, which is likely to peak the interest of fans ahead of the fight next weekend.
The sparring unsurprisingly features some ridiculously heavy blows from the man aptly named Thor. He was also taking blows and managed to absorb both head and body strikes from his striking partner with as much success as he could hope for. He looks to be in top shape ahead of March 19.
One commenter on the YouTube video even stated: “Love seeing someone that was sooo big and strong go to boxing and actually learn to be technical and develop great movement.”
Other fans were also impressed, with one saying: “Thor has really improved a lot, it’s visible and his proper training is paying off.”
Another said: “Very impressed with Thor’s progression! Also, I’m so happy to see Thor lighter, looking healthy, and honestly looking happy! Man’s in great condition.”
Nelson Zhang also wrote in the comments: “This might be late to mention, but this progress is insane. Eddie’s definitely going to aim for body blows since most of the YouTube footage shows Thor not really have his midriff that well covered, hopefully Thor has a good answer for that!”
This footage is bound to add excitement to this fight as fans can get a measurement of just how intense and powerful the encounter will end up being with two absolute mountains of men.

domain: news


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Fifteen poker machines have been seized and reduced to landfill after they were found to have been illegally refurbished and resold following a fire.
The machines were believed to have been initially damaged after a fire broke out in the poker machine room of a Maitland Bowling Club, in the NSW Hunter Valley region.
Liquor & Gaming NSW allege a former club executive and a gaming technician reported them as trashed but refurbished them instead, fitting new illegal compliance plates and putting a number of them on the market.
Poker machines are strictly regulated under Australian law, and must be carefully documented and reported in the event of their destruction or reuse for parts.
The poker machines were subsequently confiscated from sellers on Facebook, pawn brokers, and from the games rooms of private homes to prevent illegal gambling.
It is alleged some have been resold for approximately $13,000, already netting the scam operators $200,000.
Liquor & Gaming NSW believe the alleged operators expected to make a total of $300,000.
“The level of sophistication and collusion that occurred in this instance we haven't seen before,” Minister for Hospitality, Gaming and Racing Troy Grant said.
“Club officials were colluding with licensed gaming technicians to falsify documents, change gaming machines in order to rebirth them into the industry.”
Mr Grant has cautioned anyone considering reselling poker machines to think again.
"The reality is, if you have one, you're subject to a serious fine – up to $11,000 and potential jail time,” Mr Grant said.
“So the message is clear, if you have one of these it is illegal, hand it in to Liquor and Gaming NSW."
© Nine Digital Pty Ltd 2019


New York Representative Jerrold Nadler
will reintroduce legislation that would repeal the Defense of
Marriage Act (DOMA) on Wednesday.
Nadler introduced the Respect for
Marriage Act, a bill that would end DOMA, the Clinton-era law that
bans federal agencies from recognizing the legal marriages of gay and
lesbian couples and allows states to ignore such marriages from other
states, in September, 2009. The measure quickly rounded up 100
co-sponsors in its first 30 days and then fizzled without a companion
General Eric Holder's announcement that he and President Barack
Obama believe parts of the law to be unconstitutional have renewed
the effort, Nadler told The Huffington Post.
“The president's move is another step
in the increasing realization that there is no conceivable
justification for DOMA, that it is motivated, was motivated, purely
by irrational considerations and fear and that there is no rational
basis that will stand up to a constitutional challenge,” Nadler
“Hopefully, that will make it
somewhat easier to pass legislation in Congress,” the Democrat
Three Democratic senators, Dianne
Feinstein of California, Patrick Leahy of Vermont and Kirsten
Gillibrand of New York, have signed on to introduce similar
legislation in the Senate.
In 1996, Leahy voted in favor of DOMA.
But in 2009, he told Vermont Public Radio that he had reversed his
position. Feinstein has always opposed the law.


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Candidates: Are you interviewing and need support?
As of 2016, millennials became the largest generation in the US workforce. Two years later, attracting them is still one of HR’s biggest challenges.
What’s happening? In this post, we’ll look at six different, data-backed ways you can attract more millennials to your workplace.
When dealing with any generational demographic it’s tempting to lean on stereotypes. But if you focus on stereotypes over data, you’ll miss the strategies that actually work.
For instance, you wouldn’t expect digitally-savvy millennials to frequent their local library - but they are actually more likely to visit than Gen-Xers or baby boomers.
And the “job-hopping” millennial? A myth:
Millennials change jobs just as often as previous generations did in their youth. When you crack open stereotypes, you uncover methods of attracting millennial talent that other organizations won’t think of.
Consider that only 20% of millennials moved in the previous year: down ~25% from previous generations. The implication here is two-fold:
When you confront stereotypes with data, surprising solutions emerge.
Millennials trust user-generated content (peer reviews, etc) 50% more than traditional media. This isn’t to say other generations don’t, this particular study just looked at millennials.
A strong reputation and presence on review sites sends potential applicants a compelling message. A poor reputation tells them not to apply.
It’s important to manage your reputation on a range of review sites. 72% of candidates spend over an hour researching a job; they’ll visit multiple.
Talent Board, 2016
So what do you do if your Glassdoor (or other review site) company page is full of less-than-glowing reviews?
Millennials place a high importance on corporate social responsibility (CSR) when looking for work. The idea here is that the corporation has an ethical duty to give back to the community. While volunteering is the most common way CSR plays out, there are other ways organizations can give back.
A great illustration of the impact corporate social responsibility has on attracting millennials comes from a study of college students in 2008. Before attending an event where they would hear about different organizations’ CSR initiatives, only 48% of students said they were willing to work for the “national, profit-seeking organizations” who were participating. After the event, that number jumped to 75%.
That’s a huge (56%) increase in interest from a one-hour information session.
Fast-forward 10 years, and these four issues are at the top of Millennials’ minds today (percentages indicate issues identified as “of the most interest”, respondents could select 1-3 out of 18):
Corporate social responsibility takes many forms:
Advertising the many ways your organization gives back, both actively (volunteering) and passively (sustainability), shows millennials that your organization is one they can feel proud working for.
The desire to grow - both personally and professionally - is not exclusive to the Millennial generation. But it is a heavy priority, particularly when it comes time to find a job.
According to Gallup’s 2016 report “How Millennials Want to Work and Live”:
Chances are you’ll need to retool your job description to show what the job can provide them, not just what the job demands from them.
From formalized mentorship programs to online mini-courses, learning and development can take many different forms. What’s important here is how you present them. If your opportunities are a footnote on a career site, or only surface during the final interview, potential applicants move on to the next listing on the job board.
This doesn’t necessarily mean catered lunches or ping pong tables. When it comes to non-essential benefits (benefits & perks outside the minimum healthcare, dental, and retirement benefits needed to be competitive), give employees flexibility.
For instance: 78% of millennials said they would choose to spend money on a desirable experience over a desirable thing. This doesn’t mean you need to throw your traditional recognition program away, but it does mean you should provide employees flexibility in the way they choose to be recognized.
These are some non-traditional benefits that attract millennials:
When you look at the numbers, millennials actually aren’t all that different from previous generations.
The strategies and tactics you already have in place are just as valuable when recruiting millennials. For example, you might think that millennials consider email an outdated technology. But email is just as valuable for reaching millennials as any other communication medium. 68% of millennials said promotional emails impacted their purchase decisions.
You shouldn’t neglect essentials like competitive pay and health benefits to chase the latest “millennial hiring” trend.
You should only prioritize millennial-specific attraction initiatives when all your other bases are covered. If you’re hiring slower than your competition or offering below-market pay, you’ll miss the best talent from every generation - not just millennials.

domain: sociology


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(March 1, 2023 – Mountrail County, North Dakota)
A motorist was killed last Wednesday when the vehicle he was operating was struck by a BNSF freight train at an unguarded, and dangerous crossing in Mountrail County, North Dakota. The vehicle was struck on the driver’s side and pushed off the tracks. The collision occurred on 66th Street NW at 3:51 p.m. The road was closed the rest of the day for investigators.
According to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, a 14-year-old boy was killed in the collision. His name has not been released.
The railroad-highway crossing where this collision occurred did not have any lights or gates. It is virtually certain that the addition of lights and gates could have prevented this tragedy. BNSF and Operation Lifesaver know that lights and gates are the most effective type of protection at railroad crossings. Studies that have been conducted over fifty years ago confirm that lights and gates offer the ability to drastically reduce the number of vehicle/train collisions by as much as 96%.
The incident is under investigation by the highway patrol.


President Trump criticized the Iran nuclear deal after Iran conducted a test of a ballistic missile "capable of reaching Israel."
The Iran deal, which Mr. Trump has criticized intensely and suggested he may nullify, does not address testing of ballistic missiles. That 2015 agreement pertains specifically to the country's nuclear efforts.
Iran's state-run broadcaster announced the launch Friday. The weapon reportedly has a range of more than 1,200 miles.
Mr. Trumpin his Tuesday speech to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
"We cannot let a murderer's regime continue these destabilizing activities while building dangerous missiles, and we cannot abide by an agreement if it provides cover for the eventual construction of a nuclear program," Mr. Trump said.
Mr. Trump on Saturday also said Iran is "working with North Korea," another nation he has scolded this week during the UNGA. North Korea's foreign minister shot back at Mr. Trump in a speech on Saturday, saying


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The Provincial Government of Haut-Uélé launched, on Wednesday August 10, 2022, the measles vaccination campaign in 12 health centers in Dungu.
Indeed, more than 77,000 children are expected during this vaccination campaign which benefits from the support of the humanitarian NGO Médecins Sans Frontières for a period of five (5) days.
According to the Chief Medical Officer of this health zone, Dr Innocent Awuleri, the situation is alarming in this part of the country. He calls on parents to take their children to vaccination sites to help them prevent this disease.
“We are among the most affected areas in the province. Measles is a contagious and deadly disease. The situation is alarming. This is what justifies this vaccination campaign. We encourage parents to come in large numbers, take their children to sites that are indicated by licensed nurses. There are health centers and advanced sites that the health authorities have prepared. Because, until now, there is no medicine to treat this disease apart from the vaccine. he warned.
In February 2022, nearly 200 children were infected with measles in the province of Haut-Uélé.
As a reminder, measles is a serious viral infection for young children, but which can be easily prevented by a vaccine. The disease is spread through the air by respiratory droplets produced by coughing or sneezing, saliva (drinks, etc.), contact with a contaminated surface, physical contact (handshake, hug) or by transmission from the mother. – child (pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding).

domain: medical


Fast, Lil Lody is becoming one of the biggest figures in Memphis hip hop. Slowly, Young Jeezy has assembled a talented CTE roster. Lil Lody is a producer/rapper for the label. Today, Lil Lody released his Foolish 2 mixtape, which is hosted by DJ Grady and DJ Iceberg. Fellow Memphis artists, Criminal Manne and Yo Gotti appear on the mixtape, along with Young Jeezy and Turk.
Download Foolish 2 hosted by DJ Grady and DJ Iceberg here.


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Invasive fungal infections (IFI) are an important cause of late-onset disease in extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants. Despite prior trials of fluconazole prophylaxis in neonates, application of this regimen remains controversial. Review of our neonatal intensive care unit aggregate annual number of fungal isolates from sterile sites in ELBW infants from 1997 to 2006 suggested a significant decrease following the institution of routine prophylactic fluconazole in February 2002. We undertook a retrospective study to document the efficacy and adverse effects of routine fluconazole prophylaxis.
ELBW infants admitted during 2000 to 2006 were divided into 2 groups: Control group—admitted before the institution of fluconazole prophylaxis, and Fluconazole group—admitted after institution of fluconazole prophylaxis. Primary outcome was the frequency of IFI. Secondary outcome was the frequency of cholestasis, which has been rarely reported with fluconazole use.
Data were extracted from 262 infant records: control 99, fluconazole 163. Baseline demographics and potentially confounding variables differed between the 2 groups with greater birth weight, greater gestational age, shorter durations of ventilation and central catheter use, and earlier start of feeding in the control group, reflecting healthier control infants. Frequency of IFI was 7.1% in the control group versus 1.8% in the fluconazole group, P = 0.045. Logistic regression revealed that fluconazole prophylaxis was independently associated with a lower risk of IFI. There was no difference in the frequency of cholestasis between the control and fluconazole groups.
Prophylactic administration of fluconazole to all ELBW infants was associated with significantly decreased rates of IFI without associated adverse effects.
From the Departments of *Medicine and †Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL; and ‡Rush University Medical College, Chicago, IL.
Accepted for publication September 3, 2009.
Supported by the Rush University Medical College Dean's Office Summer Research Fellowship Program.
Address for correspondence: Aloka L. Patel, MD, Section of Neonatology, Rush University Medical Center, 1653 West Congress Pkwy, Murdock 622, Chicago, IL 60612. E-mail: Aloka_Patel@Rush.edu.


Two days after flying to Chattanooga to accept the position of police chief, Fred Fletcher lined up with hundreds of other runners in Saturday's Scenic City Trail Marathon.
Fletcher -- a commander in the Austin (Texas) Police Department and avid runner and cyclist -- knows that gaining the public's trust starts with being available and demonstrating the simple message that you care about your community.
"I consider that a part of the obligation of a leader," Fletcher said. "I will be an active and visible member of the community, not just as a police officer but as a resident."
In Austin, those who worked with Fletcher said what makes the 20-year veteran effective is his ability to inspire others to lead and to disarm the community by seeking their help to address the city's worst crime.
He went door to door to explain a new policing style and solicited advice from community leaders as well as rookie cops. He taught civil rights and safety classes to immigrant Iraqis, Cubans and Asians, making sure he learned at least one word in their native languages to make them feel more comfortable. Programs he pioneered were adopted across Austin; some even went statewide.
Such glimpses of his style, commitment and success demonstrate the type of leader he'll be in Chattanooga, those who know him say.
"You're going to see a lot of Fred Fletcher out in the community; that's what he did in Austin," said Austin NAACP President Nelson Linder. "He's going to make sure officers are very visible, and he'll demand they have relationships. You're going to see that right away."
Yet Fletcher's position isn't sealed in Chattanooga until the City Council votes. Each council member plans to meet with him one on one before making a decision. Those who have had a chance to talk with him say they are impressed.
When Fletcher wanted the east Austin community to know he and prosecutors were introducing a new style of policing to snuff out an open-air drug market in one of the city's worst areas, he knocked on neighbors' doors, Linder said. He told them that he didn't want to put more of their family members in jail, but wanted to find them jobs and help change their lives, Linder said.
Community members were skeptical; they had been fed similar pitches for decades. But when the daytime drug deals waned along with the prostitution and crime, some people were impressed, Linder said. They began to trust the police again.
From 2012 to 2013, violent crime in the region that Fletcher oversaw decreased by 14 percent, and property crime declined by 9 percent. And officials said Austin police plan to expand the drug market intervention program that Fletcher helped pilot to other pockets of crime in the city.
Fletcher's 20-year career in Austin spans a lengthy list of accomplishments including:
• A traffic project that increased ticket citations by 31 percent and lowered traffic fatalities.
• Trust rebuilt in diverse communities through a series of community town hall meetings, commander forums and neighborhood walks.
• The initiation of more than a dozen community programs ranging from the drug market intervention to smaller-scale projects like Street Law Course, a class to help kids understand how to navigate encounters with law enforcement.
Leaders who worked with Fletcher said he had the ability to reach the community like few other police officers.
One community program Fletcher initiated taught refugees and immigrants their civil rights as well as safety tips, said Angela-Jo Touza-Medina, a program manager for nonprofit social service agency Caritas of Austin.
Touza-Medina met Fletcher in 2005 and said he immediately became interested in learning about refugees from across the world. In each class Fletcher taught, Touza-Medina said, he would learn at least one word in the class's original language.
"Fred was very eager to learn about the different populations we serve," she said.
What started as one program expanded to a training tool across the city to teach political refugees and hundreds of immigrants about public safety.
Those who worked for Fletcher said he's not the kind of leader who will be stuck behind a desk.
He's humble, said Lt. Michael Eveleth. When he wants to find solutions, he goes to the experts on the subject.
He went to Officer Rheannon Cunningham, an expert on the cycling community, for advice when motorists weren't giving bicycles the required three-foot clearance and Austin experienced a spike in traffic fatalities, including cyclist deaths.
Cunningham had just recently graduated from the police academy when she found herself one of the leaders of an undercover sting to crack down on drivers. Officers in civilian clothes would ride their bikes and radio to a parked patrol car when they saw drivers too close to cyclists.
What had been an unenforceable law became effective, and the program was so successful, Fletcher said, that the city adopted it, as did others across the state.
"It was a dream of mine, to combine my hobby and passion with my job," Cunningham said. "I've loved working under [Fletcher's] supervision. [He] makes it feel like your opinion and your work actually matter."
Chattanooga officials said their impression of Fletcher so far is that he will use his passion and energy to find leaders within the police department and to build trust with the community.
"Our biggest desire is for a leader that the men and women of this department can follow, engage in, trust and respect," said Sean O'Brien, president of the local chapter of the Fraternal Order of Police. "It's [currently] not anywhere near what it needs to be."
Fletcher said most major changes in a community start small, and a good leader recognizes those ideas and enables people.
"Little successes beget big successes," he said. Take the biking initiative, he said.
"It started with a simple, humble working plan. All I did was ask [Cunningham] to do it, then support her and get out of the way."
Contact staff writer Joy Lukachick at email@example.com or 423-757-6659.


One of the most successful prototype constructors has thrown its hat into the ACO’s newly announced class.
Sportscar365 has learned that ORECA is considering building a car for the LMP3 category, which will launch in the European and Asian Le Mans Series beginning in 2015.
The French manufacturer, which offers customer prototypes for LMP2 and LMPC and recently announced plans to build a new closed-top P2 car, is looking to expand into the new cost-capped platform, but has yet to pull the trigger.
“We are waiting for the rulebook,” ORECA technical director David Floury told Sportscar365. “The ACO is working very hard on this at the moment. We are obviously involved in the process and the ACO knows we are interested in entering the category as a manufacturer.
“They’ve asked us some questions about the project, but at the moment, as long as we don’t have a final rulebook, it’s too early to say what our plans will be.”
Floury said one of the big factors would be the economical side, as the proposed rules stipulate that a turn-key LMP3 car cannot sell for more than 150,000 Euros ($202,000).
It’s a similar price point to the current CN formula, which will be adopted in the Asian LMS next year.
While having announced plans earlier this year to build a CN car (pictured, above), Floury said that’s now been put on hold as they wait on likely regulation changes.
“Obviously as this is a cost-capped category, it’s quite tough from an [economical] recovery point of view,” Floury said of the LMp3 platform. “You have to make sure the market is big enough to balance your investment.
“As a company, we clearly have to weigh this. We don’t have a multi-millionaire backing all projects. We have to make sure we reach an economical balance on any project we’re doing.”
ACO Sporting Director Vincent Beaumesnil said he expects between two to four manufacturers to commit to the LMP3 formula for its launch year.
While the final rulebook has yet to be released, Floury believes that a “big part” of its CN design, which is 90 percent complete, could be transferrable to LMP3, should ORECA decide to go that route.


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Reaching Atlanta with the Gospel
Home to the world’s busiest airport, a budding film and television industry, a sporting mecca and an outpost for most Fortune 500 companies, the city of Atlanta has become a major player on both local and global levels. Thousands of students attend universities within the city, and a growing international community contributes to the more than 100 languages spoken in the area. From the outside, the Atlanta metro area seems a bustling urban powerhouse, but a closer look reveals more of a contradiction.
The Atlanta metro area is collected into pockets of unique communities, each one with its own distinct characteristics and needs. Life here is a juxtaposition of megachurches, shopping centers, high rises and wealth set alongside gang violence, drugs, human trafficking and poverty. The challenge to reach such a diversified population for Christ is great.
For change to take place, it must begin on the neighborhood level. This will require church planters, pastors and partners to prayerfully find locations in dire need and creatively and diligently work toward connecting in the community. In addition to racism, poverty and crime, the negativity associated with Christianity is an obstacle that needs to be overcome, especially when the shadows of existing church buildings fall on bridges, beneath which the homeless take shelter. But there’s a unique opportunity for churches and believers to work together for a greater impact and a movement toward change.
From planting a church to partnering with those already on mission in Atlanta, you and your church can make a difference; connect with us to learn how.
Church Planting Resources
Discover free tools and resources—blogs, podcasts, e-books and more—that will help you and your church effectively plant churches in your community.
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Two people suspected of stealing items from sunbeds in Protaras have been charged after being arrested on Sunday.
On Sunday afternoon, a police officer noticed a young man holding a bag in a suspicious manner and moving away from the sunbeds on the beach.
The suspect was stopped but did not give sufficient explanations about the bag he had in his possession. A second suspect was also caught.
The arrests came as part of a plan by Famagusta CID to tackle theft from busy beaches in the Protaras area.
The two suspects admitted to stealing two bags from sunbeds. Both were charged and released pending their court appearance.

domain: law


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CROWDS turned out in force on Saturday, September 25, as soldiers were granted the freedom of the borough in Blackwood.
The troops, from 1st Battalion the Royal Welsh, were also given the right to march through Caerphilly as they were officially granted the freedom of both towns.
The regiment, which returned in May from a five-month deployment in Afghanistan, is based at the Dale Barracks in Chester.
They were greeted by dignitaries, shop workers, shoppers and well-wishers following a call from council leaders to support the returning soldiers.
After making their way through the centre of Caerphilly, they assembled for the official granting of the freedom of the borough ceremony at the town’s cenotaph.
The soldiers were then transported to Blackwood for their second parade of the day.
Leader of Caerphilly Council, Councillor Lindsay Whittle said: “It was truly overwhelming to see so many of the county borough’s residents coming out in force to show their support to the brave men and women of The Royal Welsh”.
He continued, “We were delighted to confer this special honour on the regiment, and our residents showing the troops how highly thought of they are in Caerphilly county borough really helped to make the day a truly unforgettable one for all concerned.”
Among the soldiers on parade on Saturday were Corporal Joe Sale and Lieutenant Steve Healey, who only the day before were informed that they had been awarded the Military Cross and a Mention in Dispatches respectively for their bravery in combat.
A Caerphilly resident said: “Our brave soldiers put their lives on the line for our freedom and democracy every day, and I was so proud to see them march through the town and receive this thoroughly deserved honour.”


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Kate Hudson: Bingham Bellamy’s First Pic!
Sun, 14 August 2011 at 10:56 pm Kate Hudson: Bingham Bellamy’s First Pic!
Check out this picture of Kate Hudson and her newborn son Bingham!
Kate?s fiance Matt Bellamy tweeted the picture earlier in the day of the proud mama and their son.
PHOTOS: Check out the latest pics of celebrity babies
?Family life!? he wrote, along with the pic.
Bingham was born in early July to the happy parents!
Kate recently spoke with Elle magazine about planning her wedding.
?One thing at a time,? she said. ?We?ll say hello to our new one and enjoy that for a while.?
Bigger picture inside? http://justjared.buzznet.com/2011/08/14/kate-hudson-bingham-bellamys-first-pic/


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Mumbai: Actress Waluscha De Sousa, who will make her debut in Bollywood opposite Shah Rukh Khan in Fan, said that the superstar was patient with her during the shoot.
Waluscha said that she was inspired to see Shah Rukh's dedication and focus towards his work.
"He's so calm and dedicated. When he is on the sets, it's just the film. Everything else takes a backseat," Waluscha said in a statement.
Waluscha had previously worked with Shah Rukh in a few advertisements but was nervous to shoot her first film shot with the actor.
"He just looked at me calmly as if to say, don't worry, I have all the time in the world. Fumble as many times as you want because that's the only way to learn," she added.
Fan, directed by Maneesh Sharma, is scheduled to release on April 15.(Also Read: Jabra Fan Shah Rukh Meets Sultan Salman Khan. 'Picture Perfect')


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Like a clean house but hate spending loads of money on different cleaning products? What if I told you I’ve found a recipe for three sprays to keep your whole home clean and they’ll cost you less than $10 to make!
One night I was watching A Current Affair and saw a lady by the name of Cath Armstrong make three sprays to clean the whole house, they are The World’s Best Shower Cleaner, The World’s Best Window Cleaner and The Miracle Spray Cleaner.
Best thing about these sprays are the fact you can make them yourself and they don’t include all the nasty chemicals found in some cleaners these days.
A little bit sceptical, I thought I would try these babies out and was pleasantly surprised! They all worked! I must admit, my shower smelt a little like vinegar once it was cleaned but the smell went away as soon as I had a shower. To me the little smell is totally worth it and I will happily use the spray again. It’s safe and I know what is in every spray!
My favourite would have to be The Miracle Spray Cleaner, (the multi-purpose cleaner for walls, floors, benches, stoves, toilet, sinks and for removing stains off the carpet) it smells soooo good! Maybe that’s because I love the smell of eucalyptus. Pour a little bit of this stuff into your mop bucket and not only will your floors be sparkling clean, they will be smelling great too!
But enough of my experiences, here is how to make these sprays for yourself.
1 cup of white vinegar (slightly warmed for 10 seconds in the microwave)
1 cup of dishwashing liquid
Pour into a spray bottle the slightly warmed vinegar followed by the dishwashing liquid. Mix together and that’s it! Spray in the shower and use a sponge to wipe off.
1/2 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid
3 tablespoons of white vinegar
2 cups of water
Pour two cups of water into a spray bottle, mix in the vinegar and dishwashing liquid and your done.
The Miracle Spray Cleaner
1.25 litres of water
1 cup of boiling water
3 dessert spoons of washing soda (found in the Laundry section at the supermarket)
300ml of white vinegar
60ml of dishwashing liquid
25ml of eucalyptus oil
Mix into cup of boiling water the washing soda till it dissolves. In a large bowl mix the vinegar, dishwashing liquid and eucalyptus oil into the 1.25L of water then add the boiling water of dissolved washing soda into the mix. Pour into a spray bottle and there you have it!
Just think of how much money you will save by making your very own cleaning products? Happy budgeting everyone!
– Lights x

domain: chemistry


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The ardent football fan across the world follows his soccer club with absolute favor and craze. Offers live scores, most recent final results, ladders, tournament draws, H2H stats, odds comparison, video highlights and further information. In reality, 1 could even argue that the college athletes get great exposure and focus from specialist sporting bodies helping them make a excellent sports career, courtesy of the organizers of college games like the NCAA.
The news component of the app supplies straight forward access to recent news across an array of categories. If the sports demand a lot more than a player, this indicates the sports need to have a lot more than a player to win. That person was nearly going to be an NBA player and that is my travel teams primary coach. They have taken their years of expertise in the media industry and converted it into a functional news app. Harkening to the greatest Madden console titles and even Bases Loaded on the original Nintendo, Tap Sports Baseball puts you each in the front office as nicely as on the field. The makers should watch some baseball and adjust the game to genuine life baseball.
However, if you can justify why it wouldn’t be fair in basketball then I feel the same applies for football. Golden State Warriors forward Andre Iguodala says he plans to play Game 7 of the NBA Finals in spite of a balky back that restricted him the earlier game. Well, in principle it need to tell us some thing about the way the two scores in each game are interacting with a single an additional. In the 2012-13 NBA season, each group scored an typical of 98.138 points per game.
Ben Simmons will be the No. two choose according to Sports Illustrated’s most recent NBA Mock Draft two.. Simmons would maintain the purple and gold colors, heading west to play for the Los Angeles Lakers. Based upon what type of the game you are playing, in the leading left of the screen will be the total you are chasing, your run rate and the scores your two current batsmen have produced. Livescore as the name suggests is an app that provides real-time scores of distinct sports and soccer games as they take spot. But once more we see how various these sports genuinely are, and there is really no great way to compare these two sports.
LeBron James scored 32 points, Kyrie Irving added 30 and the Cleveland Cavaliers, pushed for 48 minutes by a delirious, championship-starved crowd, hammered the Golden State Warriors 120-90 in Game 3 on Wednesday evening. Eighty-nine % of the scoring in basketball games is just to get the score up to the region where basketball scores live, clustered around 100. With two of the greatest basketball players in the planet set to compete in the NBA Finals, the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Firm is celebrating their birthplace.

domain: sports


- High intensity, a narrow
beam, and a wide range of accessories make these
fixtures essential in
Broadcast Studios or on Feature/Episodic/Commercial
- Low power consumption, reduced HVAC requirements.
- No associated bulb
replacement costs contribute to a return on your
less than three years for typical studio applications.
- Incredibly energy efficient, these panels draw only
350W but are comparable
to the output of a 575W
- No UV or infrared wavelengths are emitted by any of
- Microprocessor operated, active cooling system that
automatically adjusts to the ambient temperature.
- Flicker-free at any frame rate or shutter angle.
- Ultra-smooth dimming from 100% to 0, with no
noticeable color shift throughout the entire range.
- Our unique Nanoptic lenses convert the powerful open
source into a soft light or broad directional
flexibility for almost any application.
- Integrated DMX module, with RJ45 Ethernet connections
for remote dimming control with any standard
DMX512 protocol device.
- Integrated slots hold color and diffusion gel filters
and Nanoptic lenses.
- Standard Yoke with Junior Pin to enable easy mounting
- User-friendly LCD display and a multi-functional
control with menu-based button interface.
- Removable, external power supply with convenient
mounting bracket and other options.


BOSTON (CBS) —- There are a dozen candidates running to become Boston’s next mayor.
For the next several weeks, WBZ political analyst Jon Keller will run his “Meet The Mayoral Candidates” series, profiling all of the contenders.READ MORE: Swayman's 42 Saves Leads Bruins Over Predators 2-0
On Sunday, he sat down with John Barros and Michael Ross.
The mayoral primary is September 24.
Watch: Meet The Candidates Part 1READ MORE: Boston Police Warn About Drinks Being Drugged At Bars
Watch: Meet The Candidates Part 2
MORE NEWS: 9,909 At Massachusetts Schools Test Positive For COVID-19 In Last 2 Weeks
You can listen to Keller At Large on WBZ News Radio every weekday at 7:55 a.m. and 12:25 p.m. You can also watch Jon on WBZ-TV News.


The LG Nexus 5 is the thinnest and fastest Nexus smartphone ever and is powered by the new Android v4.4 (KITKAT) operating system. The impressive spec excels in all areas and includes a 2.26GHz quad-core processor, 4.95" full HD display and 8MP camera with Optical Image Stabiliser.
Say "OK Google" to activate a voice search, get directions, play music or send a text. GPS with Google Maps make navigation effortless and users may detect and avoid traffic jams, explore an unfamiliar town or find the best places to eat, shop and more.
Everything else is as it should be for a top-end smartphone and includes YouTube, Social Network Integration, a document editor, Wi-Fi, 4G ready, video calling and an enhanced battery that delivers up to 17 hours talk-time.


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"Helen makes the best tuna fish salad I have ever tasted!!!!!! I have tried to duplicate it many times without success."
"Worst pizza ever made.Ii have been a pizza expert for 45 years and this stuff should be banned.Never in my life have I tasted such salty ashes.Stay far ..."
"I was born and raised in Pittsburgh and Mineo's was the place to eat Pizza but now that I have learned what good pizza is I would rather ..."
"The sushi is excellent. I don't remember the exact names of all the rolls and dishes but we had a roll called the Japanese Mafia or something like ..."
"Mr. Della Sala was my twin sister and I eighth grade English teacher. We would walk from Seneca and stop in at the pizza shop after school for ..."
"This mexican food restaurant is the best I've found in this area. The pricing is reasonable while the food is very good. The service is generally fast and ..."
"There are very few seats here as they are mainly a take out restaurant. There food is delicious, tasty and fresh. I recommend trying this genuine Asian food."
"I travel to the Pittsburgh area every month or so and have been here twice so far. The food is exceptional! Try the zuchini apetizer and the crab ..."
"Italian food fare that is very good. The bread served with the meal is wonderful and tastes fabulous. The atmosphere is casual and family friendly. The pricing is ..."
"Love their pizza! With new location, I can swing by and pick up pizza after work for family pizza night! My family LOVES all the pizzas but my ..."

domain: food


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With America observing Veterans Day this weekend, “America’s Business with Mike Hambrick” will spotlight two veterans in manufacturing and do a little flag waving.
Veterans Scott Farrar and Blaine Williams will talk about transitioning from the armed forces to manufacturing jobs at Quality Float Works Inc., an Illinois flotation product maker.
Chances are if you see a flag waving this weekend it was made by J.C. Schultz Enterprises Inc. in Illinois. Company owner Janice Christiansen joined Mike to talk about the pride her workers get from making the Old Red, White and Blue.
Last summer’s Minnesota bridge collapse put more attention on the nation’s ailing infrastructure. NAM formed the Alliance for Improving America’s Infrastructure to highlight the need to modernize the nation’s roads, rails, ports and airports. Former Missouri Sen. Jim Talent, the coalition’s honorary chairman, will talk to Mike about national infrastructure needs and alliance goals.
On the always hot issue of China trade, Mike will be joined by Colin Wu, president and chief executive officer of the American Merchandise Center in China. Wu’s 120,000-square feet center gives small and medium U.S. manufacturers a place to sell products in China’s go-go market.
Closer to home, Brett Vassey, president and chief executive officer of the Virginia Manufacturers Association will talk about Virginia’s Dream It. Do It. campaign launch. Developed by NAM and its research, education and workforce arm, The Manufacturing Institute, Dream It. Do It. attracts young people to manufacturing careers by building regional alliances.
In our regular segments, Renee Giachino of the American Justice Partnership gives us the heroes and villains of the tort reform battles and the NAM’s Hank Cox recalls “The Way It Was.”
And Gov. Engler will give us the last word when he talks about the need for a comprehensive national energy strategy.
Latest posts by Frank Vargo (see all)
- More Good FTA News, But also a Need to Move Faster - June 29, 2012
- 86.9 Percent of World Market Still Maintains Barriers Against U.S. Exports - May 15, 2012
- Colombia Trade Agreement Certified, Creating New Export Market - April 16, 2012


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(Title Image: James Williams via Twitter)
The Business Committee – which determines the scheduling and arrangements for Senedd Business – has decided that a review of political groups will be undertaken before the end of the current term (pdf).
Following the establishment of a Brexit Party group, a number of AMs co-signed a letter to the Committee demanding that the rules be changed to prevent regional list members from joining political groups which don’t have prior representation in the Senedd.
Although the co-signatories didn’t want the rules to apply retrospectively, the Committee decided it would raise matters of fairness and undermine the principle that regional list and constituency members are equal. Nonetheless, they’ve agreed that a review of political group membership should take place.
A petition launched by Nation.Cymru’s Dr Ifan Morgan Jones – largely calling for the same thing – received 1,301 signatures and will now be considered further by the Petitions Committee.


Water supply The water supply is guaranteed Curitiba mainly by reservoirs formed by dams and Piraquara Ira I, serving the region east of the city, and Passa na, which supplies the south and west. The population of Curitiba and its metropolitan area consumes approximately 7.5 thousand liters of treated water per second, which is supplied by the Companhia de Saneamento do Parana (Sanepar). Moreover, it is estimated that there are in the city over a thousand wells (mainly used by condominiums, businesses and hospitals), which together have the potential to provide an additional volume of approximately 1.5 thousand liters of water per second . During the winter droughts in recent years, water supply has been compromised at times. At those times have been scheduled outages of necessary supplies, which are executed in accordance with schedules set by the Sanepar.The works of the dam Piraquara II should be completed early in 2007 but is only operational until summer 2008, it is necessary a period of approximately one year for raising the water level in the reservoir formed, which will have a final capacity of 22 billion liters. Subsequently, provide for the construction of collection and treatment station Miringuava River, in S o Jos dos Pinhais.


At the Major League level yesterday, former Cubs prospects Anthony Rizzo, Addison Russell and Albert Almora each hit a home run, while other former Cubs prospects Willson Contreras and Javier Baez hit doubles of their own.
In other words, the ghosts of Cubs farm system past have been fully on display.
But before those guys were killing it in the majors, they were killing it in the Minors. Here are some notes on other, current Cubs prospects who may one day kill it in the Majors.
- The 2016 MLB Futures Game will be held in San Diego on July 10 and a couple of Cubs made the cut: Jeimer Candelario and Eloy Jimenez. At Baseball Prospectus, the staff previews the exhibition game with a brief scouting report on the rosters. On Candelario, Grant Jones admits that while his glove may not wow you, his switch-hitting bat is pretty exciting, adding that that he may even see time in the Majors as soon as this season. On the other hand, BP calls Jimenez one of the biggest breakout prospects of the season, touting his “immensely improved approach” at the plate that still features “light-tower power.”
- Baseball America created a similar primer, but comes to some differing opinions on Jeimer Candelario. Most notably, BA calls Jeimer Candelario an above average defender at third base with a powerful arm. Jimenez comes in for equal praise, though, especially about the power potential, that’s already on display in the Midwest League. If you’re looking for information on the Futures Game, these previews are where you start.
- Speaking of Candelario, both he and Willson Contreras have been named to the MLB Pipeline team of the week at the respective positions. Contreras for hitting .318/.444/.636 with 2 HRs at the Major League level and Candelario for slashing .409/.536/.727 with more walks (6) than strikeouts (5) in his week at Triple-A Iowa. Congrats, fellas.
- With the trade deadline coming in a month and the Cubs looking likely to be active, rumors are popping up regarding just who Chicago would be willing to deal. Among the names most frequently mentioned (and not just this season) is Iowa first baseman Dan Vogelbach; however, he’s not letting those rumors get to him. Vogelbach is aware of his own defensive limitations (position-wise) and that Anthony Rizzo exists, but that doesn’t stop him from showing up everyday, working hard, and improving at first and at the plate. On the latter improvement, we know he’s been killing it lately, but to the former, he’s been gaining confidence. “I’m confident over there,” Vogelbach told Tommy Birch at the Des Moines Register. “I’m just as confident at first base as I am at the plate and when I step to the plate, I know I’m going to get a hit every single time. So, that’s the way I think in the field now.” The path to the Majors via the Cubs remains unclear, but Vogelbach is still a very good prospect.
- At Cut4, Gleyber Torres sits down and discusses how he’s tried to model his game after fellow Venezuelan Miguel Cabrera. It’s an interesting comp, as the two have pretty different individual talents overall, but an encouraging one nonetheless. That said, Jake Mintz identifies that each player places a heavy focus on driving the ball the other way and if that’s what Torres is trying to do with the frequency of Cabrera, I say go for it!
- At FanGraphs, Eric Logenhagen does the prospect chat thing, discussing a myriad of topics about the Chicago Cubs system. Notably, he ranks Ian Happ, Jeimer Candelario and Dan Vogelbach in that order (in terms of trade value) calling Happ a “first-division player,” with enough pop to hold a corner outfield spot, if need be. Although they’re not prospects anymore, Logenhagen is also increasingly optimistic about Kris Bryant’s ability to stick at third (which, yeah) and still believes in Addison Russell’s offensive ability.
- Lastly, Scott Kornberg reports on the growing bromance between middle infielders Ian Happ and Gleyber Torres. It’s not quite #Bryzzo level yet (and Happ has since been promoted to AA), but I can see the seeds being sewn:
Here's a story I did on Ian Happ and Gleyber Torres, who are both so good, you sometimes have to pinch yourself https://t.co/Fd3Ys6Y8gd
— Scott Kornberg (@ScottKornberg) June 27, 2016


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Project Tamarin censusing cotton-top tamarins, Colombia
Proyecto Tití is a multi-disciplinary in situ conservation program that combines field research, education programs and community programs to make the conservation of natural resources economically feasible for local communities in Colombia.
Proyecto Tití (Project Tamarin) is working to establish the first protected area/national park for cotton-top tamarins in northwestern Colombia. To do this a habitat assessment and complete population census is needed. A habitat assessment has been completed and the remaining population of cotton-top tamarins must now be determined. A survey plan has been developed using methods able to count animals that are difficult to visualize in a tropical environment.
Two teams of observers will walk transect lines and play vocalizations of “intruding” animals using a Bose Acoustic Wave Music System which has been shown to not distort the playback vocalizations and to travel the farthest in the dense forest (>200 m). Playback studies are remarkably effective in eliciting territorial responses from cotton-top tamarins making them highly visible and easy to count.
In January 2005, the first phase of the census in the Departments of Bolivar and Atlantico will begin. The goal is to complete the initial census of these areas within six weeks.and census the six other departments within the historic distribution of the cotton-top tamarin throughout the year during the dry season. The goal is to complete the census by the end of 2005. This data combined with the habitat assessment will allow project members to select the most appropriate areas for protection and long-term conservation while providing the first estimate of the current population of cotton-top tamarins in Colombia. This data will also be used to review the IUCN status of cotton-top tamarins and provide a determination of its conservation status.
The Minnesota Zoo’s Ulysses S. Seal Conservation Grant Program awarded “Proyecto Tití (Project Tamarin)” $2300 in 2005 for the purchase of equipment and supplies for their census of the remaining cotton-top tamarin population in its historic range in Colombia. Staff champion for this project is Maria Reedstrom, Tropics Zookeeper.
Photograph courtesy of the Brookfield Zoo.


This series highlights some of the most anticipated heavy hitters and up-and-comers performing at the first-ever Middlelands. Get to know these beat-makers ahead of their debut on the Middlelands stages.
For fans of: Alison Wonderland, Cashmere Cat, Mr. Carmack, Tennyson
Releases on: Pelican Fly, Because Music, Mad Decent
Why you should be listening: Lido is an embodiment of his production. A musician first and foremost, his creative boundaries for writing and creating electronic-based music are wide open. His ingenious ability to integrate a full orchestra, distinctive vocal stylings, and rap features across his debut solo album, Everything, is unique in itself and elevates the art form. He makes it possible for electronic music to feel cinematic in a way that’s far beyond the dancefloor.
Take a spin: From its divine descant to its raw message, “Angel,” a beautiful cut off Everything, recognizes and accepts the end of a dying romance in both musical and lyrical truth. In this special live version, Lido leaves his vocals unprocessed and untouched to best express the purity of his emotional clarity.
Tickets and camping passes for the first-ever Middlelands are available now.


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Indy Film Fest kicks off today! I’ve been volunteering with the festival for many years now, and the magic that unfolds over ten days never ceases to amaze me – the community of film geeks, the traveling filmmakers, the wide range of 100 films – it’s all so transporting. While I believe the best way to take in the fest is to get an all access pass and see as many films as possible, not everyone has that kind of time. The tentpole events are always a good bet, but here are a few others that I am particularly excited about.
Tangerine is the story of two transgender friends and prostitutes living in a seedy part of LA. It’s become known as the film that was shot on the iPhone.
Consider this glowing review from Fresh Air , which calls Tangerine “at once wildly funny and painfully honest about the everyday degradation and inhumanity that its characters experience,” it’s 93% Rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and the fact that Indy Film Fest is donating $1 from every ticket sold to this movie to Indy Pride.
Crocodile Gennadiy earns the distinction of being the film on the slate I’ve been waiting for the longest. I actually kickstarted it many moons ago. The director, Steve Hoover, is the same fellow behind Blood Brother, a 2013 Indy Film Fest selection. That film was heart wrenching and beautiful, and to this day, I’ve never experienced a crowd sit so still and quiet through the full credits. I imagine this one will be just as hard-hitting.
A Space Program features NY artist Tom Sachs as he hand builds a mission to Mars.
I’ve been fascinated by his work since I first saw Ten Bullets (below). One of it’s pinnacle scenes is a clip of Alec Baldwin from Glengarry Glenn Ross, except instead of “Always be closing!” the overdub changes closing to knolling, which basically means to align objects in a tidy, designerly, and perhaps one might say OCD manner. Anytime we have out the art supplies for a sketch sprint or something like that, my coworkers and I find ourselves knolling.
You can warm up for this one by watching this most wonderful manual with instructions for working in the studio:
Notice anything with these picks? They’re all incredibly different! And there are 90+ more short films, documentaries and features from as close as Indy and from all around the world too. Come by and take a chance on some wild and wonderful films!
A few years ago when Indy Film Fest started the Roving Cinema program, we really had no idea what a huge hit it would be, and what crazy corners of the city it would take us. The idea was simple: let’s show movies where the should be. And so we screened Big Lebowski in a bowling alley, Strange Brew at Sun King, Fight Club in the City Catacombs. Some of these screenings have sold out months in advance, sending a loud and clear message – people love these events.
As an all-volunteer organization, we didn’t necessarily think about the long-term needs of a program like this. Thanks to the 5×5 grant win from the Central Indiana Community Foundation, Christel DeHaan Family Foundation and the Efroymson Family Fund we were able to purchase a screen and sound equipment, allowing us to screen films anywhere. The city is our theater. Getting there is another matter…
We’ve had to depend on volunteers with big vehicles to transport the screen and sound system to all of our events. It’s a lot to ask. We’ve decided it’s high time to purchase some wheels to help the cinema rove.
Then next time you come to one of the fest events across the city, you can revel in the fact that you helped make it happen!
This post is part of Think Kit by SmallBox
Apple Of Your Eye. You’ve ranted. You’ve raved. You’ve freestyled, soapboxed, and even waved a magic wand or two. Today, let’s keep it positive. Who (or what) is doing something good? Share a story of your positive action, whether it’s a favorite charity, foundation, or nonprofit – or just an individual whose penchant for do-goodery makes you feel all warm and fuzzy.
On one of the most oppressively hot days of the summer, Indy Film Fest packed a sold out crowd into the Harrison Center gym. Most of the ten day film festival took place at the Indianapolis Museum of Art, but we also programmed a few experiences where the film paired with an atypical movie venue. For a documentary about the Medora Hornets, the losingest high school Indiana basketball team – an old gym, turned art community center.
As a tiny high school, with just a handful of talent to choose from, Medora High had built up a scrappy, underdog team. And they lost. Again and again. But “Medora” is as much about the decline of the small, rural town, and the lack of opportunities for the young people who call them home, as it is about basketball. There was a bit of trouble, here and there. A recovering alcoholic mother, getting kicked out of school, the pressing business of getting a date for the big dance. Amidst it all, the mounting pressure to win a game. It wasn’t certain if anyone would be able to stay on the team, to graduate, to hold it together. I know I barely did.
Yes, that was me, the one sobbing in the far corner of the bleachers in the back of the gym. I was glad for the dark. As the lights flickered on, I was pawing at my throat, a throbbing lump, a weighty sadness. Despite the uncertainty of their future, there they stood. Four of them in a row, two wearing their letter jackets, with their coaches and the filmmaker, Andrew Cohn.
A couple of the boys were seeing the film for the first time. When asked their reaction, a meek reply. “It’s sort of awkward.” I can’t even imagine. I’d probably not have the courage to stand in front of a crowd after watching an hour plus of my life unfold on the silver screen. Especially if the evidence points to doom. Their town is failing, the school, shrinking. What chance do these kids have, especially if they decide they do want to stick to their Medora roots?
As the Q&A finished up and the crowd thinned out, I and the other volunteers starting grabbing the metal chairs, folding them up, and carting them over to a storage rack. Without missing a beat, the team started grabbing chairs, chipping in.
No! I thought. This is their night. They’re the stars. If my heart wasn’t fully broken for these boys by this point, I nearly lost it as I watched them dutifully shuffling chairs into place. They’d go on to celebrate the film at an after-party with family and friends. Just not until each chair was back in its place.
My love affair with movies started young. My mom loved watching old westerns, and I remember scraps of them as a sort of backdrop to my childhood. When I saw The Good, The Bad and The Ugly with Indy Film Fest a couple of years ago, I thought it was for the first time. After a few scenes, it all came rushing back, the movie I’d seen some thirty years before.
When we were very small, my sister Kelli and I thought we were sneaky, trying to cheat bedtime to watch movies. We even had a secret code for it – M-R-O, our hilarious attempt at adult strategy. We knew grown-ups spelled things out when they didn’t want kids to understand what they were saying and we thought we could do the same in reverse. MRO, to this day, still means “stay up late and watch movies” in my family.
My dad took Kelli and I to our first films in the theater – The Dark Crystal and the re-release of Disney’s Snow White around 1983. Soon after, we saw Jaws in 3D. We soaked up the good and the bad of 80s flicks, wearing out our VHS copy of Once Bitten with Lauren Hutton and a very young Jim Carrey. Until I was old enough to go out with friends on the weekend, every Saturday night was reserved for one of the cheesy horror flicks that my dad loved so much, followed by SNL.
In high school, I discovered Woody Allen and caught a rare foreign film screening of Like Water For Chocolate on what must have been the one weekend it screened in my hometown of Evansville, Indiana. I credit these, along with Kurosawa’s Dreams, The Graduate, Harold and Maude and a few others for showing me what film can be.
Even with all of that, I’d never have guessed how much of my spare time would be invested in movies. I volunteered for the screening committee for Indy Film Fest a few years ago and it’s been my cause of choice ever since. This year is kind of a big deal – it marks the tenth festival. As an all-volunteer organization, our board is feverishly planning events, rounding up volunteers and seeing to all kinds of details to to make this year bigger and better than ever. After a few years of focusing on marketing, I’m shifting toward fundraising for the organization.
I’m still determining my exact goals, working with the board president and the rest of the team to understand what we need for this year and beyond. Our three to five year plans call for major growth. I admit, I’m dreaming big, like HOLY CRAP, this could mark my biggest professional failure EVER sort of big.
But I also know our attendance and response to film experiences like Roving Cinema and movies at Sun King Brewery have grown tremendously. There’s a passionate tribe of movie lovers that keep showing up, talking movies with us, answering the call when we seek support.
Putting this blog post out into the world is my first step toward what will be a banner year of fundraising for Indy Film Fest. Wish me luck!
Better yet, if you want to help build something amazing for film lovers in Indy, let me know (you can email me here). I’d love to share our vision with you. If you want a few details about corporate support, here’s an overview of some of our opportunities. We’re also trying to raise a little cash to kick start our 2013 programming. Individual donations can be made here.
This post is part of Think Kit by SmallBox Today’s prompt: What’s one step you can take to support a goal you have for 2013?
I’m stepping outside of my normal marketing and board member role at Indy Film Fest to curate some short films for a new monthly series. I’m pleased to introduce The Nooner. It’s lunch. It’s short films. It’s afternoon delight.
This has been a little pet project of mine for a while, as I’ve fretted over how little access there is to short film programming round the year in Indianapolis. I’m hoping this will change all that!
This new shorts program will take place on the final Friday of each month in the café at Earth House. The first edition is tomorrow at noon, and I can’t wait to kick it off. We’re showing past Oscar winning shorts for this inaugural outing. You can rsvp on facebook, or just show up! The screening is free.
Have ideas for a film to feature? Or maybe you’re a filmmaker and want to submit your film? Contact me here.
A project of the Indy Film Fest, the Bigger Picture Show features re-invented movie posters for an art show/fundraiser. I took a stab at one of my favorites, Waiting for Guffman. Though it’s one of the funniest movies I’ve ever seen, the tragedy within the comedy offers some of the most interesting moments in the film. These are the moments which inspired the poster.
When Corky erupts on the city council because he’s been denied budget for his production and threatens to go home and bite his pillow, the panic the acting troupe feels when they see that the folding metal chair they’ve reserved for the critic is empty, the moment Corky St. Clair realizes Guffman isn’t Guffman at all, just some random bloke. The spinning propeller of his beanie cap and over done eyeliner seem to mock the tragic deflation in his expression.
My Friday night consisted of frozen pizza, a 6 pack of beer and a stack of Indy Film Fest screeners. Our submissions have officially closed and we got the expected last minute rush of films. Between now and June when we announce our lineup for this summer’s festival (July 14-24, 2011), I’ll be watching and evaluating about 15 or so shorts and 4 full length feature films each week, in addition to my other duties as board member and marketing director. It ended up being the perfect way to end a very hectic week.
You see, Indy Film Fest is pretty much my cause in shining armor. I can’t help but fully invest myself into it – I get to work with such stellar creative minds and dedicated volunteers. AND I get to help build something that can be enjoyed by so many, that adds to the vibrancy of our fair city.
Here’s something not everyone knows – Indy Film Fest has zero paid staff (maybe one day!). We have a few dedicated partners and sponsors – particularly Lodge Design, Nuvo and the Indianapolis Museum of Art. If it weren’t for these groups, and the generous gusto of our volunteers, the festival couldn’t happen.
We wrote it into our vision. Deliciously scrappy, Highly focused. I pour my heart into the festival because I know that come middle of July we’ll be able to put on this amazing shared experience around film that rivals any put on with full-time paid staff.
Here’s the way Kickstarter works. We’ve set a goal of $4,000. We have (now less than) 30 days to reach that goal. If we don’t make it, we lose all of the pledges others have entered. It’s a risk, but we had faith. When we looked at the numbers coming to our events, our interactions on various social networks and the rising attendance at the festival – we just knew we could pull it off. Kickstarter even links up with Amazon, so if you have an account, pledging is a very simple process.
At $50 and up, you become an official member of the fest, with all of the accompanying perks. For your pledge of $500, you earn a reserved seat in the theatre for the duration of the festival. How cool is that? See more of the perks listed out for each level here.
Maybe you’ve never been to the Indy Film Fest before. Then please consider a ten dollar date with the fest. For your $10 gift, we’ll thank you with two tickets to any regular festival screening – a pretty risk-free investment if you ask me.
December 8 Beautifully Different.
Think about what makes you different and what you do that lights people up. Reflect on all the things that make you different – you’ll find they’re what make you beautiful. (Prompt author: Karen Walrond)
When I think about what makes me different and beautiful, or anyone else for that matter, I’m reminded of the the opening of the movie Amelie. We are introduced to the people in Ameilie’s life by short lists of things they love and things they hate. It’s a quick, clever way to sum up a person and incredibly telling of their overall personality.
Amelie, for example, likes to dip her hand into sacks of grain, look back to sneak glances at the faces of people watching movies in the theater and skip stones, but doesn’t like it when strangers brush her hand or when drivers in old movies don’t watch the road while driving.
These are the quirks that make people unique, the sort of things you uncover slowly as you get to know a person. Each learned quirk is a small reward symbolizing closeness. Sometimes when I’m getting to know people I think of them this way – what would their little Amelie-esque loves/hates be?
If a clever movie montage of my quirks were made, this would be among them: I love the sound of a tea kettle whistle. Even if I know the water is hot enough, I always wait for the whistle. Always.
What would be one your movie montage quirks?
Extras from Amelie:
This post is a part of #reverb10 by Gwen Bell. Gwen and her team enlisted a group of authors to write prompts for each day in December. Participants can blog, tweet or post photos in reaction to the prompts to reflect on the past year.
It’s official – I’ve joined the board of the Indy Film Fest, a.k.a the Dream Team. It is such an honor to be part of this festival. I previously volunteered on the film screening committee, as well as helping with promotion and at various events. I’ll be focusing on marketing needs for the festival, along with the amazing team at Lodge Design.
It couldn’t be a more exciting time to increase my involvement with the festival. We’ve just started a new program called Roving Cinema, in which we bring movies to the perfect setting for viewing. First up was a sold out screening of Strange Brew at Sun King Brewery. We’re currently working on the 2011 schedule. We’ve also got a doc screening coming up at the Toby with our lovely partners at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Did I mention submissions have just opened for the big fest in July?
For me, being part of something like this provides a sense of purpose that I don’t get elsewhere. While I love both the work I do by day and my solo creative endeavors, there’s nothing quite like the charge of volunteering. I’ve heard volunteering can even add years to your life, a pretty sweet bonus if you ask me.
An interview with filmmaker/actor Ryan Balas and Co-Star Deirdre Herlihy
A strange thing happened to me the other day after watching the world premiere of “Everyone Says I Look Just Like Her.” Some of the scenes began to weave themselves into my head, taking place next to my own memories. I felt distinctively that at some point I’d caught a secret glance into the back seat window of a car where Emmie (played by Deirdre Herlihy, http://twitter.com/deirdreherlihy) had sex with a new acquaintance. Did I really share mimosas with four friends in a wood-paneled cabin, made by Rowan (played by Ryan Balas, http://twitter.com/ryanbalas) while he wore nothing but black brief underwear? In reality, I had only just met the real life couple, Ryan and Deirdre, first via twitter, and finally in person a few days prior to the world premiere of their movie at the Indy Film Festival.
Indy Film Fest (http://twitter.com/IndyFilmFest) is a ten-day festival featuring movies from around the globe. In it’s seventh year, the festival aims to feature independent and innovative film. Each time yet another ill-conceived sequel is announced and the frustration mounts that Hollywood is not only broke, but also out of ideas, festivals like this deliver signs of life in film.
“Everyone Says I Look Just Like Her” (http://everyonesaysilookjustlikeher.blogspot.com) is the epitome of indie film. With a cast and crew numbering four each, it was shot in just ten days. The original budget of $5,000 (now surpassed due to additional post production and travel expenses from their home in Queens, NY) was crowd sourced from friends and family members, the new revenue stream for small-scale creative endeavors via personal appeals and sites like Kickstarter (http://www.kickstarter.com).
The result is a surprising film that dives deep into the heart of family, relationships and grief without going too far into the brink. Two sisters, one biologic to white parents, one adopted (she happens to be African American, but no big deal is made of this), spend a week at their famous father’s summer home in the days before the anniversary of their mother’s death. It’s the real stuff of life, shelling out doses of unexpected joy to pierce the melancholy and mourning.
I got a chance to get into the minds of Ryan and Deirdre about “Everyone Says,” work and life, an especially nice trade, since they’d already worked their way into mine.
SM: The film has a lot of private moments, both happy and sad, and a lot of sex. After watching, I kept thinking a good word to describe your film was intimate. Was that part of the intent?
RB: Yes! We had a super small crew and cast. I wanted to create a safe environment and level of intimacy in which we could all come together and be truthful in the moment.
DH: I think of my first scene with Joe in the back of the car. It’s not dimly lit, there isn’t any heartfelt music playing – it’s just not that sexy. With that being said, I think that most sex between two people who have never been intimate is like that.
RB: My approach was to keep it honest and to acknowledge all the awkward, in-between- moments, not just of these characters sex lives, but also the times when they were alone with themselves. There is always a liability to personal work but I’d say that it’s worth it for the intimacy achieved.
SM: You shot the movie over ten days in Michigan. In some of the scenes, it feels like the setting is another character. Can you comment on sense of place?
RB: As for sense of place, it was very important to me that the house felt lived in and that it felt like these girls had made a lot of memories there. Also, let me just say that I stole a lot from the opening of Woody Allen’s “Interiors.”
DH: I had traveled to the house twice with Ryan for his family reunion. It was of course a very different experience being there with a film crew and working on an intense film schedule. When I wasn’t shooting, I would walk down to the water and feel so grateful. I was working on a film I believed in and able to take in our beautiful surroundings. The setting was another character – It was where these two sisters found comfort and familiarity.
RB: For me, it was easy, because it was true, but I had to play the opposite of that. The cabin where we filmed is a place my family has been renting for a week every summer since I was a kid, so it is wall-to-wall memories for me.. It had to be new to me, it had to be some place mysterious. There is so much natural beauty in Northern Michigan, that you basically just need to turn the camera on and start shooting and you are likely to find something really lovely. Plus, my producer/right hand man Darren Marshall (LINK) and Director of Photography/Cam Operator Richard Buonagurio (LINK) both have a good eye for natural composition and establishing a sense of place in the mix of our improvised scene work.
SM: How was your experience premiering the film at the Indy Film Fest?
RB: We had the best time. For me, it felt like a homecoming. I was born in Valparaiso, Indiana, my dad went to Purdue, and I spent a number of years living in Northern Indiana, so it’s a special state for me.
DH: I couldn’t have imagined it going any better. Everyone involved with Indy Film Fest was so welcoming and supportive of our film. I felt like we had a group of cheerleaders backing us the whole week. Also, having to two very different audiences during the screenings was beneficial to us as filmmakers.
SM: What did you take away from the screenings & their different audience vibes? There was a lot of laughing out loud in the first screening. Were you surprised about that?
DH: I was surprised by the amount of laughing during the first screening. Sometimes you aren’t sure if people will get your humor. It was so rewarding to hear such a positive response. The second screening had a more conservative audience, but the film provoked good questions from them during the Q&A. As a filmmaker, you need to have that balance from your audiences.
SM: During the Q & A of the World Premiere, you mentioned how viewing home videos inspired you to make this film. How much personal life was woven into the story?
DH: Ryan really dug deep into my family, with permission of course. A few years ago, I asked my dad to convert some home VHS videos into DVD so I could have them as my own personal keepsake. Having lost my mom nearly 13 years ago, I cherish anything that shows my mom, dad, older brother and I together. I remember Ryan being especially inspired watching the films. They were both a great tribute to her and also helped Ryan get to know her in a way.
RB: “Everyone Says” was a very personal film for all of us, in different ways. I wanted everyone to have the chance to add a unique voice and history to the story, which is why a majority of the dialogue is improvised.
SM: How has technology and social media changed how you promote and talk about your work?
RB: Where do I begin? Well…we met on twitter didn’t we? I have to say that I really began to promote my work at the time when social media was getting big, so it hasn’t been this totally new way for me to do old work. There certainly is a forever-morphing method. With the advancement of technology and the ability to connect with a larger audience on a daily basis, I think indie film can thrive on that opportunity.
DH: Darren, our producer, put together and posted a teaser online while we were still shooting. It felt a little premature, but then when I saw the response it was getting, I had no regrets. So many friends and family members donated to this film, so it felt awesome being able to show them what they helped us make.
RB: Our work is enhanced by it and in fact I really hope we can learn to use it as another story telling method. I think it has caused me to daydream ways in which we can integrate the process of the promotion with the work itself. That’s the exciting part about new media and technology for me. We are able to draw new lines between storytelling and promotion.
SM: What’s next for “Everyone Says I Look Just Like Her” – Are you seeking other festival screenings or distribution?
RB: We are actively submitting for fall, winter and spring film festivals and would really like to continue on the circuit for a little while. As for distribution, only the future can really tell. We have some interest but want to have the opportunity to build our relationship with the audience before we decide the direction to the film.
DH: We are looking for distribution, but not rushing into anything. This film is our baby and we want what’s best for it.
SM: Ryan, I’ve heard that your next project is a documentary that could be a little controversial. What other projects are on the horizon for you two?
RB: I’m working on the documentary, “Stage Brother,” (LINK) which I’m producing with director, Richie Buonagurio. We’ve been following Richie’s sister around for the last 6 months as she dips her toes into the adult industry. That project could be shooting for at least another 6 months to a year, so it’s more of a long-term thing. As for the next project that I will direct, we are talking about making a film based on our web series, The Really Cool Show (http://thereallycoolshow.blogspot.com).
DH: Ryan and I both just recently wrapped on Darren Marshall’s film, The Kings of Yorktown (LINK), and I also got to briefly appear in Stage Brother. I’d like to direct a film maybe this fall. In between all of this, I’m going to continue to work on my photography (http://www.deirdreherlihy.com).
RB: The Kings of York Town, which I also produced, should be hitting the circuit next summer. I’m trying to stay busy and do a lot of things at once. There are ideas on the table and we all want to do it, it’s just a matter of getting a few logistical things into place.
SM: You’ve just celebrated five years together as a couple, with countless collaborations under your belt. How has your relationship grown as a result of the work collaboration?
RB: We met in acting school and our relationship slowly unfolded out of a mutual interest and enjoyment in working together. The relationship has obviously grown far beyond the work, but we still love to collaborate. It feels natural and though we are both independent artists, it’s still great when we get a chance to partner up.
DH: We were really good friends for months before becoming an item and collaborating creatively, which I feel has made all the difference.
RB: It’s great fun to travel together and saves us both a lot of money when we only need one bed. The only downside is we always have to find someone to feed our cats while we are away.
One thing is certain, Ryan and Deirdre and countless other emerging filmmakers are making original, inspiring films with small budgets and a lot of love for what they’re doing. It isn’t about big paydays, but creating films that move, inspire and provoke thought. Do what you can to help make independent film happen. Look up your local festivals and screenings. And if you’re in Queens, maybe offer to watch Ryan and Deirdre’s cats so they can share their lovely film with a wider audience?
This post was originally published on July 31, 2010 on Sundayed.


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Coming Attractions: Turbo
Earlier this week I was invited to a preview of 20th Century Fox Latin America’s releases for the rest of 2013. We were shown trailers for Epic, The Wolverine, The Heat and The Internship, among other titles, and were treated to an advanced screening of Danny Boyle’s Trance (review coming soon). But before that, we got to see an extended preview of Turbo.
Turbo tells the story of a little garden snail with big dreams (omg, I’m such a cliché). Theo a.k.a. Turbo (voiced by Ryan Reynolds) is a huge fan of racing but he’s a slow guy by nature, obviously. Then one day, he ends up almost drowning in nitrous oxide; his DNA is altered, making him all fast and shiny.
We were treated to an extended sneak preview of this upcoming animated film from Dreamworks (about the first 25 minutes) and I have to say, even though it may be a mashup of A Bug’s Life, Ratatouille and Cars, with snails, the movie is pretty funny and has a lot of heart.
Besides Reynolds, Turbo features the voices of Paul Giamatti, Samuel L. Jackson, Snoop Dogg, Luis Guzmán, Michael Peña, Bill Hader, Richard Jenkins, Michelle Rodriguez and Maya Rudolph. Check out the trailer below.
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"The sea is everything. It covers seven tenths of the terrestrial globe. Its breath is pure and healthy. It is an immense desert, where man is never lonely, for he feels life stirring on all sides."Jules Verne, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea
The entire reason for going on this vacation was because I was craving snorkeling. We have snorkeled in Hawaii, Cayman Islands, Cook Islands and even Costa Rica and our favorite snorkeling has always been Hawaii. Being that I am not a huge fan of Hawaii outside of the water, I was happy to give Puerto Morelos a chance, and.....it's been nice knowing you Hawaii. (:
We took a great snorkeling trip from a company called Almost Heaven Adventures to the second largest reef in the world. The owner Enrique and the crew Raphael and Manuel were very professional, knowledgeable and friendly. After a short ride from the dock, about 500 meters, we were in the crystal clear water following Raphael and his orange lifesaver around the reef oohing and aahing.(Having Raphael in the water with a lifesaver was extremely comforting to my kids who after years of snorkeling are still terrified of the coral, but not of the barracuda, go figure.) As he lead us around the reef he would point out different fish and coral telling us the names and other interesting information about each and the area in general. We saw barracuda, sting rays, turtles, eels, lobster, and some of the usual coral fish along with sea fans and anemones. The entire reef was so pretty I actually ended up running my camera out of battery life....193 pictures later.
To be continued.....(Sorry, there is just so much to talk about.)