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Emily Petsche ’18 began college with a faint notion of her future career path. Now a senior, Petsche is a part-time marketing assistant at Geauga County Public Library (GCPL). Consider that strategic leap from her brief summer stint as social media marketing intern.
When the commuter enrolled at Lake Erie College, she fancied a career in the business world. “After starting as a finance major, I knew that it wasn't the right fit,” she said. “I enjoyed marketing courses at Lake Erie, and I liked being able to express my creativity, so I switched my major to marketing, and I'm really glad that I did.”
An up-and-coming media maven, she photographs shareable moments for the library’s social media accounts and is currently creating a video for the library’s upcoming visit of 9/11 survivor and New York Times best-selling author Michael Hingson, said Lori Weber, marketing manager at the GCPL. On Sept. 6, Hingson will share how he escaped the World Trade Center with his seeing-eye dog, Africa.
Weber called Petsche “a fantastic addition to the team.” Continuing, she said, “She's been able to incorporate a lot of ideas that engage and inspire our patrons by involving them in social media posts. She's an editor of our Club Ink blog, which links what people are reading, listening or watching that pertains to their interests to items in the library collection.”
Aside from updating the library’s pages on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Flickr, she had the chance to help develop Club Ink, which the GCPL advertises as “an engaging series of events and workshops celebrating culture and the written and spoken word.” The program includes events, presentations and writing workshops run by award-winning and published authors – nine, so far. The LEC student compiled information for press releases about the programming.
“This was an internship in the field that I wanted to be in and it was working for an organization that I knew and loved,” said Petsche, for whom the library carved out a special position.
The Chardon native formed an initial bond with the library when she shelved books at her local branch in Chardon. After more than two years, she felt compelled to stay longer.
Her boss liked the sound of that.
She passed Petsche’s internship proposal along to her superior, and the rest is Lake Erie College history.
The daughter of Beth Petsche ’92 and the sister of Michelle Burkett ’14, she is a proper legacy. “Both my mother and sister attended LEC, found success and enjoyed it here. I figured that if they liked it, I probably would too,” she said. “I prefer smaller classroom experiences to large lecture halls filled with hundreds of people. I like being able to get to know the teachers and ask their advice.”
At the College, Petsche serves as a distinguished scholar and leader on Mortar Board and has earned a spot on the Dean’s List. Here, marketing instructors introduced her to industry lingo. In her social and digital media marketing course, she learned how companies use social media and the best practices for various platforms.
“Because of this course, I was able to jump right in and start creating posts for the library's social media,” said Petsche, who offers simple yet handy advice. “Go to class. Pay attention. Do the work necessary.”
Now, in her senior year, she has definite ideas about where she can use her talents: the entertainment industry. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? Walt Disney World? Eventually.
“I am thoroughly enjoying my time at the library and learning new things each day,” she said.
Want a success story like hers? Contact Eric Evans, director of student career development and experiential learning, at email@example.com or visit https://www.lec.edu/career for more information about internships and other exciting opportunities for students at LEC.Back To News


Vincent "Buddy" Cianci is a talk-radio host and ex-convict who spent more time serving as mayor of Providence (21 years from 1975 to 2002) than anyone in the city's history. He is the author of "Politics and Pasta: How I Prosecuted Mobsters, Rebuilt a Dying City, Advised a President, Dined with Sinatra, Spent Five Years in a Federally Funded Gated Community, and Lived to Tell the Tale." He was defeated in the 2014 mayoral election when he ran as an independent.
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"Presents a Christian perspective that humans pursue glory in vain unless they seek for it in God through Jesus Christ"--...
By Jeffrey D Johnson
Paperback: 120 pages
Publisher: Reformation Heritage Books (March 28, 2018)
Product Dimensions: 4.9 x 0.4 x 7.4 inches
Amazon Rank: 1183498
Format: PDF ePub TXT book
Great Book! Very edifying...highly recommend to any Christian, but especially new ones, due to the overall solid Biblical view on lots of issues we deal with.
Download Forget me always lovely vicious pdf at gettinckikiin.wordpress.com Download Forty days of prayer the power of a praying church pdf at alliszeibreez.wordpress.com Complex function theory Here Malabous pdf link Read Confessions of a street addict ebook allpronpurifi.wordpress.com Download Cam jansen the green school mystery 28 pdf at bukadoim.wordpress.com Here Lonely boy tales from a sex pistol pdf link A practical commentary on holy scripture Download Little snowman finger puppet book little finger puppet board books pdf at allmicsuidomt.wordpress.com

domain: literature


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According to the source liga.net, Max Polyakov is confident that if pets are coached, they can always know how to act in every environment they find themselves in. Dogs which know what to do around different individuals and creatures can always feel safe and relaxed.
Max Polyakov discourages coaching a pet whose wellness condition is not known. Some pets might look fine but might start having health issues after engaging in sports because of some illnesses which had not been detected before. So, it is important to have a pet examined by an expert first before starting any exercises.
In the start, the sessions should last around 10 to 15 minutes. Trainers should only increase the time after a pet has gotten used to getting coached. If the exercises last long at the beginning, a pet can become tired and eventually lose interest.
Max Polyakov suggests changing the coaching technique if you discover that a pet is not responding well.
Max Polyakov recommends coaching an animal only if you possess the required coaching knowledge. If you have no experience in handling dogs you might not know what to do if a pet gets injured or acts in a strange way.
In this competition, pets are directed via obstacles with voice and signals. Accuracy and the duration taken to complete is what determines who wins. Examples of obstacles in this sport are a crossover, a seesaw, and a tunnel.
Max Polyakov revealed that there exist many methods of teaching pets how to leap. What a coach requires to do in each is increase the length of the leap to make it more complicated for the pet to jump. That can make a pet keep putting more effort each time it jumps.
This game entails running and it contains barriers too. Participating pets are split in two groups. The pets are supposed to leap severally and the length they jump is determined by the smallest animal in the competition.
Max Polyakov believes that sticking to his guideline can help people get their dogs ready for any contests they need them to take part in. He also emphasizes that dogs should only take part in competitions which suit them and a veterinarian is the best expert to tell which games suit the pets.

domain: pet


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Potatoes are a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be grown in many different climates. For those living in Zone 7a, it’s important to know when to plant potatoes to ensure a successful crop.
This region includes parts of Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Arkansas, among others, and has a moderate climate with mild winters and hot summers. The best time to plant potatoes in Zone 7a is in early spring, typically between late March and early April.
It’s important to wait until after the last frost date to plant, which can vary from year to year. Gardeners should pay close attention to the weather and wait at least two weeks after the last frost date to ensure that the soil is warm enough for planting.
By following these guidelines, gardeners can ensure that their potato crop will have the best chance of success.
- The best time to plant potatoes in Zone 7a is in early spring, typically between late March and early April.
- It’s important to wait until after the last frost date to plant, which can vary from year to year.
- Gardeners should pay close attention to the weather and wait at least two weeks after the last frost date to ensure that the soil is warm enough for planting.
You also don’t want to miss:
- When to Plant Potatoes in Zone 5b?
- When to Plant Potatoes in Eastern North Carolina?
- When to Plant Potatoes in Central Texas?
Understanding Planting Zones
Planting zones are important to understand when it comes to growing plants. These zones are determined by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and are based on climate data such as minimum winter temperatures.
The zones are divided into 13 categories, ranging from zone 1, which has the coldest temperatures, to zone 13, which has the warmest.
Zone 7 is a region that is characterized by mild winters and warm summers. It is located in the southeastern part of the United States and includes states such as Virginia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Zone 7 is further divided into two sub-zones, 7a and 7b, which have slightly different temperature ranges.
Zone 7a has an average minimum temperature range of 0 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit, while zone 7b has an average minimum temperature range of 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to know which sub-zone you are in as it will affect when you should plant your potatoes.
When it comes to planting potatoes in zone 7a, the best time to plant is between January and March. This is when the soil is cool but not frozen, which allows the potatoes to establish roots before the hot summer months. Planting in August for a fall crop is also an option.
It is important to note that planting times can vary depending on your specific location and climate conditions. It is always a good idea to check your local weather forecast and consult with gardening experts in your area to determine the best planting times.
In zones 2a and 8, for example, planting times will differ from zone 7a. In zone 2a, the growing season is much shorter, so planting should be done in late spring or early summer. In zone 8, winters are mild, so planting can be done in the fall or winter.
Understanding planting zones is crucial for successful gardening. By knowing your zone and the appropriate planting times, you can ensure that your plants will thrive and produce a bountiful harvest.
When to Plant Potatoes in Zone 7a
Potatoes are a popular crop among gardeners in Zone 7a, which encompasses areas with an average minimum temperature of 0 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit. Knowing when to plant potatoes is crucial to ensure a bountiful harvest. In this section, we will discuss the best time to plant potatoes in Zone 7a.
The ideal time to plant potatoes in Zone 7a is between March and April. However, it is important to wait until the risk of frost is over before planting. This may vary from year to year, so it is recommended to pay close attention to the weather and wait two weeks after the last spring frost date before planting.
Soil temperature is also an important factor to consider when planting potatoes. The best soil temperature for planting potatoes is between 45 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Planting when the soil is too cold can result in slow germination, while planting when the soil is too warm can cause the potatoes to rot.
It is also worth noting that potatoes prefer well-draining soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.0. Before planting, it is recommended to amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
In Zone 7a, potatoes can also be planted in May, but it is important to keep in mind that the later the planting, the smaller the harvest will be. Planting in May is best for those who missed the ideal planting window or those who want a smaller harvest.
Preparing for Planting
Before planting potatoes in Zone 7a, it is important to prepare the soil properly. Potatoes prefer well-drained, loose soil that is rich in organic matter. This can be achieved by adding compost to the soil before planting. Compost helps to improve soil structure, increase soil fertility, and retain moisture.
Mulching is another important step in preparing the soil for planting potatoes. Mulch helps to regulate soil temperature, suppress weeds, and retain moisture. Organic materials such as straw, leaves, or grass clippings can be used as mulch.
Planning is also key when preparing to plant potatoes. It is important to choose a planting site that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Potatoes should not be planted in the same location as tomatoes, peppers, or eggplants, as they are all members of the nightshade family and can attract the same pests and diseases.
When purchasing seed packets or seed potatoes, it is important to look for certified disease-free varieties. Seed potatoes should be stored in a cool, dry place until planting. Before planting, seed potatoes should be cut into pieces that each have at least one “eye” or sprout.
Other vegetables that can be planted alongside potatoes include lettuce, onions, spinach, and beets. These vegetables can help to repel pests and attract beneficial insects.
When it comes to planting potatoes in zone 7a, there are a few key steps to follow. The planting process should begin by selecting a planting date that is appropriate for your area.
As previously mentioned, the best time to plant potatoes in zone 7a is between January and March. However, it is important to wait until the risk of frost is over before planting.
Once you have selected the appropriate planting date, it is time to prepare the soil. Potatoes prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It is recommended to add compost or other organic matter to the soil before planting to improve soil quality.
After the soil has been prepared, it is time to plant the potatoes. There are a few different methods for planting potatoes, including trenching and hill-up methods. The trenching method involves digging a trench about 6 inches deep and placing the seed potatoes in the trench about 12 inches apart.
The hill-up method involves placing the seed potatoes on top of the soil and covering them with about 4 inches of soil. As the plants grow, soil is added around the base of the plant to create a hill.
It is important to keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season. This can be achieved through regular watering and mulching around the base of the plants. Additionally, it is recommended to fertilize the plants about 3 weeks after planting to encourage healthy growth.
Caring for Your Potato Crop
Once you have planted your potatoes in Zone 7a, it’s important to care for them properly to ensure a successful harvest. Here are some tips for caring for your potato crop:
Potatoes need consistent moisture to grow properly, but overwatering can lead to rot. Water your potatoes deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to avoid wetting the leaves, which can lead to disease.
Potatoes are heavy feeders and require regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, and apply it every four to six weeks. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of tuber production.
Mulching can help conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or leaves, around the base of your potato plants. Avoid using plastic mulch, which can lead to excessive heat buildup.
4. Pest and Disease Control
Potatoes are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including potato beetles, aphids, and late blight. Monitor your plants regularly and take action at the first sign of trouble. Consider using season extenders, such as row covers or greenhouses, to protect your plants from pests and diseases.
Potatoes are ready to harvest when the leaves begin to yellow and die back. Carefully dig up your potatoes, being careful not to damage them. Allow them to dry in the sun for a few hours, then store them in a cool, dark place. Consider container growing your potatoes, which makes harvesting easier and can help prevent disease.
Recognizing and Addressing Potato Diseases
Potatoes are susceptible to various diseases, which can negatively impact their growth and yield. It is crucial to recognize these diseases early and take appropriate measures to address them.
Common Potato Diseases
Some of the most common potato diseases include:
- Early Blight: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves, which can spread to the stems and tubers. It is prevalent in warm and humid conditions.
- Late Blight: This disease is caused by a fungus and can cause rapid destruction of the plant. It causes dark, water-soaked spots on the leaves, which can spread to the stems and tubers.
- Blackleg: This bacterial disease causes black rotting of the stem and can cause the plant to wilt and die.
- Verticillium Wilt: This fungal disease causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves, which can eventually lead to the death of the plant.
- Fusarium Wilt: This fungal disease causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves, which can eventually lead to the death of the plant.
Addressing Potato Diseases
Preventing the occurrence of potato diseases is the best way to address them. Proper crop rotation, adequate soil drainage, and maintaining good hygiene practices can help prevent the spread of diseases.
If a disease is detected, it is essential to take quick action to prevent it from spreading. This can include removing infected plants, using fungicides or bactericides, and improving soil drainage.
Rotting and Green Potatoes
Potatoes can also rot due to improper storage conditions. It is crucial to store potatoes in a cool, dry, and dark place to prevent rotting.
Green potatoes are caused by exposure to light and can be toxic. It is essential to store potatoes in a dark place to prevent them from turning green. If a potato turns green, it should not be consumed.
When and How to Harvest Potatoes
Once the potato plants have died back and the leaves have turned yellow, it’s time to harvest the potatoes. The timing of the harvest depends on the variety of potatoes and the growing conditions. Generally, potatoes are ready to harvest 15-20 weeks after planting.
To check if the potatoes are ready to harvest, gently dig around the base of the plants with a garden fork or trowel. The potatoes should be about the size of a golf ball or larger. If they are smaller, it’s best to leave them in the ground for a few more weeks to allow them to grow.
It’s important to harvest potatoes on a dry day, as wet soil can cause the potatoes to rot. After digging up the potatoes, leave them on the soil surface for a few hours to dry out. Then, gently brush off any excess soil and store them in a cool, dark place with good ventilation.
In fall and winter, it’s important to harvest potatoes before the ground freezes. If the potatoes are left in the ground too long, they can be damaged by frost. In warmer climates, potatoes can be left in the ground until they are needed.
Overall, harvesting potatoes is a simple process that requires a bit of patience and attention to detail. By following these tips, gardeners can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious potatoes.
Once the potatoes have been harvested, it is important to take proper care of them to ensure they remain fresh for as long as possible. Here are a few tips on how to care for your crop after it has been harvested:
Curing is an important step in the post-harvest care of potatoes. Curing allows the potatoes to develop a thicker skin, which helps to protect them from bruising and disease.
To cure your potatoes, simply spread them out in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area for about two weeks. During this time, the potatoes should be kept out of direct sunlight and should not be washed.
After the potatoes have been cured, they can be stored in a cool, dry, and dark place. The ideal temperature for storing potatoes is between 45 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is too warm, the potatoes will sprout and become unusable. If the temperature is too cold, the potatoes will turn sweet and lose their flavor.
When storing potatoes, it is important to keep them in a well-ventilated area to prevent moisture buildup. This can be achieved by storing the potatoes in a cardboard box or a burlap sack. Plastic bags should be avoided, as they can trap moisture and cause the potatoes to rot.
If you are planting a fall crop of potatoes, it is important to harvest them before the first frost. A light frost will not harm the potatoes, but a hard frost can cause them to rot. Once the fall crop has been harvested, the potatoes should be cured and stored in the same way as the spring crop.
Potato Varieties Suitable for Zone 7a
When it comes to planting potatoes in Zone 7a, it is important to choose the right variety to ensure a successful harvest. Here are some of the most popular potato varieties that are suitable for Zone 7a:
1. Yukon Gold
Yukon Gold is a popular potato variety that is well-suited for Zone 7a. It is a mid-season potato that produces large, golden-yellow tubers with a buttery flavor. Yukon Gold potatoes are versatile and can be used for baking, boiling, frying, and mashing.
2. Red Pontiac
Red Pontiac is another popular potato variety that is well-suited for Zone 7a. It is a mid to late-season potato that produces large, red-skinned tubers with white flesh. Red Pontiac potatoes are flavorful and are great for boiling, baking, and frying.
Kennebec is a popular potato variety that is well-suited for Zone 7a. It is a mid to late-season potato that produces large, white tubers with a smooth texture. Kennebec potatoes are versatile and can be used for boiling, baking, frying, and mashing.
Russet potatoes are a popular variety that is well-suited for Zone 7a. They are a late-season potato that produces large, oblong tubers with a brownish skin and white flesh. Russet potatoes are perfect for baking and frying.
Fingerling potatoes are a unique variety that is well-suited for Zone 7a. They are a mid to late-season potato that produces small, finger-shaped tubers with a thin skin and a waxy texture. Fingerling potatoes are perfect for roasting, boiling, and frying.
When choosing a potato variety for Zone 7a, it is important to consider factors such as soil type, climate, and growing conditions. By selecting the right variety, you can ensure a successful harvest and enjoy delicious, homegrown potatoes all season long.
Planting Other Vegetables in Zone 7a
Aside from potatoes, there are other vegetables that can be planted in Zone 7a. The best time to plant these vegetables may vary depending on the specific location within the zone, but generally, they can be planted between March and April.
For vegetable gardens in California, it is recommended to plant vegetables such as beets, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, kale, lettuce, onions, peas, radishes, spinach, and turnips.
These vegetables can also be planted in Colorado, but it is important to start planting them indoors in February or March to ensure they are ready for transplanting outdoors in April or May.
In Idaho, it is best to plant vegetables such as beets, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, kale, lettuce, onions, peas, radishes, spinach, and turnips in April. It is also recommended to plant potatoes in May.
In Iowa, it is recommended to plant vegetables such as beets, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, kale, lettuce, onions, peas, radishes, spinach, and turnips in April. It is also recommended to plant potatoes in late April or early May.
In Maine, it is best to plant vegetables such as beets, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, kale, lettuce, onions, peas, radishes, spinach, and turnips in April. It is also recommended to plant potatoes in May.
It is important to note that the planting time for each vegetable may vary depending on the specific location within Zone 7a. It is recommended to consult with a local gardening expert or reference a planting guide specific to the area for more accurate planting information.
Understanding Soil and Moisture Needs
When planting potatoes in zone 7a, it is important to understand the soil and moisture needs of the crop. Potatoes grow best in well-drained, loose soil that is rich in organic matter.
The soil should have a pH between 5.0 and 6.0 to ensure optimal growth and development. Gardeners can have their soil tested at a local extension office or by using a home soil testing kit to determine the pH level.
In addition to pH levels, moisture is also a crucial factor in potato growth. Potatoes require consistent moisture to develop properly, but overwatering can lead to disease and rot. It is recommended to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
Gardeners can use a moisture meter or simply stick their finger into the soil to determine if it needs watering.
It is important to note that potatoes are sensitive to high temperatures and drought conditions. When temperatures rise above 95°F, the plants may experience heat stress, which can stunt growth and reduce yield.
To combat this, gardeners can provide shade to the plants during the hottest parts of the day or consider planting in a location that receives partial shade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best potatoes to grow in Zone 7a?
There are many different types of potatoes that can be grown in Zone 7a, but some of the best varieties include Yukon Gold, Kennebec, and Red Pontiac. These potatoes are all well-suited to the climate in Zone 7a and can produce high yields of delicious potatoes.
When is the optimal time to plant seed potatoes in Zone 7a?
The optimal time to plant seed potatoes in Zone 7a is in early spring, usually about two weeks before the last expected frost date. This will give the potatoes enough time to grow and mature before the hot summer temperatures arrive.
What other plants are good companions for potatoes in Zone 7a?
Potatoes grow well with a variety of other plants, including peas, beans, brassicas, sweetcorn, broad beans, nasturtiums, and marigolds. However, it’s best to avoid planting potatoes near cucumbers, pumpkins, sunflowers, tomatoes, and rosemary.
When should I harvest potatoes in Zone 7a?
Potatoes are typically ready to harvest in Zone 7a in late June or early July. However, the exact timing will depend on the variety of potato being grown and the specific conditions in your garden. To harvest potatoes, carefully dig them up from the soil, being careful not to damage the potatoes.
Can sweet potatoes be grown successfully in Zone 7a?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be grown successfully in Zone 7a. However, they require a longer growing season than regular potatoes and should be planted in late spring. Sweet potatoes also require well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight to grow properly.
How early in the season can I plant potatoes in Zone 7a?
Potatoes can be planted in Zone 7a as early as March, as long as the soil temperature is at least 45 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it’s important to wait until the last expected frost date has passed before planting potatoes to avoid damage from cold temperatures.
Hey, I’m Lisa and I’ve been an avid gardener for over 30 years. I love writing, talking and living in the garden! Feel free to connect with me on my socials below

domain: food


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Chargers' Austin Ekeler (ankle) not practicing on Wednesday
Los Angeles Chargers running back Austin Ekeler (ankle) did not practice on Wednesday ahead of Week 3's game against the Minnesota Vikings.
Ekeler remains without a timetable for return and opened the week with another missed practice. Barring a turnaround on Thursday or Friday, he appears to be heading towards another missed game in Week 3. Joshua Kelley only managed 39 rushing yards on 13 carries against the Tennessee Titans in Week 2 but could once again operate as Los Angeles lead back if Ekeler is out again.
The Chargers are 1.5-point underdogs against the Vikings in Week 3. Their implied team total of 26.0 points is tied for the sixth-highest team total on Sunday's main slate, according to numberFire's DFS Heat Map.
- Wilson: Houston's Noah Brown (knee) expected to play in Week 14 December 9th, 2023
- Giants list Daniel Bellinger (illness) as questionable in Week 14 December 9th, 2023
- New York's Parris Campbell (knee) questionable in Week 14 December 9th, 2023
- Schultz: Seattle's Geno Smith (groin) 'tracking to be a game-time decision' in Week 14 December 9th, 2023
- Derrick Henry (rest) good to go in Week 14 for Titans December 9th, 2023
- Buffalo's Dawson Knox (wrist) activated off injured reserve on Saturday December 9th, 2023
- Chargers rule out Josh Palmer (knee) in Week 14 December 8th, 2023
- Chargers designating Joshua Palmer (knee) to return December 6th, 2023
- Keenan Allen (quad) cleared in Week 13 for Los Angeles December 3rd, 2023
- Chargers' Keenan Allen (quad) expected to play versus Pats in Week 13 December 3rd, 2023
- Chargers' Quentin Johnston (ribs, finger) available for Week 13 December 1st, 2023
- Chargers list Keenan Allen (quad) as questionable in Week 13 December 1st, 2023

domain: news


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Rhubarb Fool – a delicious, creamy dessert using fresh rhubarb
Rhubarb Fool is a traditional English dessert, with the earliest recipes dating to the 17th century, which combines sweetened, cooked rhubarb with custard or whipped cream. This recipe is made slightly healthier by using a mixture of whipped cream and Greek yogurt. These are combined with Rhubarb Compote which is a simple sauce made from roasting fresh rhubarb with sugar.
I love the taste of rhubarb and believe that that it goes very well with anything creamy or milk-based. You just have to think of Rhubarb and Custard or Rhubarb Crumble with Cream. In this Rhubarb Fool recipe, the sharp, sweet-sour flavour of rhubarb is moderated by the cream and yogurt. This make is a perfect dish for those who are unsure about rhubarb and may even convert them. It is no coincidence that Gooseberry Fool, which uses another astringent fruit, is also a popular Fool recipe.
Other Rhubarb recipes
In addition to this recipe for Rhubarb Fool, and the Rhubarb Compote which is used to make it, many of my other rhubarb recipes are included in this blog. There are recipes for both Rhubarb Curd and Rhubarb and Vanilla Jam. If you are a rhubarb lover – or at least “rhubarb curious” – you might also like to have a look at Rhubarb Roulade, Rhubarb Curd and Rose Ice Cream, Rhubarb Upside Down Cake, Rhubarb Victoria Sandwich Cake and Rhubarb Bread and Butter Pudding. If you want to save a bit of money and like flavoured gin, you should definitely try making Rhubarb Gin and use it in some Rhubarb Gin Cocktails!Print
Rhubarb Fool is an easy and delicious, creamy dessert using roasted rhubarb, cream and Greek yogurt.
- 300 ml double cream
- 500 ml Greek yoghurt
- 400 ml of Rhubarb Compote
- Put the double cream in a bowl and whip until it forms soft peaks.
- Then fold the Greek yoghurt into the whipped cream.
- Next add 200 ml of the Rhubarb Compote to the cream and yoghurt mixture. and gently fold it in so that it is thoroughly mixed.
- I serve the Rhubarb Fool with the remaining 200 ml of Rhubarb Compote in a jug on the table. This means people can add as much as they want themselves and then swirl it through their Fool.
- The timing given for this recipe includes making the Rhubarb Compote. If you have already made the Compote, it takes less than five minutes to make Rhubarb Fool.
- You can use this Rhubarb Fool mixture as the base for a great Rhubarb Ice-Cream. Just put the mixture into your ice-cream maker and follow your user instructions.
Keywords: rhubarb, fool, rhubarb dessert, recipe


Dutch banks were reluctant to partner with a proposed FIFA Clearing House in the Netherlands so the multi-billion project went to Paris, according to NOS broadcaster.
The body was set up to distribute around $400 million a year for clubs that train others but also to “promote financial transparency and integrity, and avoid fraudulent contact in the transfer system”.
But NOS claims plans to set up in Amsterdam floundered because Dutch banks believed there was too great a risk of fraud and money laundering in payments to all kinds of advisers and funds as well as training clubs.
A report for Dutch central bank DNB warned in 2017 that there was a risk of money laundering in the football world in general due to “the number of transactions, limited visibility” and the difficulty in checking them objectively.
Bankers told NOS that the Dutch sector viewed the clearing house proposal as extremely tricky. One reportedly said: “For banks, this is even more risky than pornography.”
The body went in the end to Paris and amateur clubs have been able to claim compensation for international training from the clearing house since November 2022, in an attempt to support young talent.
The NOS reported that it is unclear which French bank is partnering with FIFA or how it assessed money laundering risks more positively than in the Netherlands.
FIFA told NOS that the French capital was chosen due to its position as a “financial crossroads and excellent financial supervision in France”.
Dutch News has asked FIFA for a comment.


| An official checks EVMs at the deputy commissioner's office at Imphal West on Wednesday. Picture by UB Photos |
Imphal, April 16: Cadres of seven militant groups that have suspension of operations agreements with the government will be allowed to cast votes at their respective polling stations when polling is held for the Inner Manipur constituency tomorrow.
Currently, 584 cadres belonging to these groups are living in designated camps.
The state’s chief electoral officer, O. Nabakishore Singh, said preparations were complete to make tomorrow’s polls trouble-free.
A 24-hour strike called by the Maoist Communist Party, Manipur, today did not hamper deployment of polling personnel in the Inner Manipur constituency — which comprises 32 Assembly constituencies in the four valley districts of Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur and Thoubal.
Maoist Communist Party, Manipur, had called today’s strike to protest against the Congress candidate and sitting MP Thokchom Meinya Singh’s “failure to perform in Parliament”.
The strike did, however, affect normal life in the valley with markets remaining shut and educational institutions remaining closed. Transport services were also suspended. There was no report of any violence.
Meinya Singh, who is seeking re-election for the third consecutive term, is among eight candidates in the fray for Inner Manipur seat.
The other candidates are Moirangthen Nara Singh (CPI), R.K. Ranjan Singh (BJP), Sarangthem Manaobi (Trinamul Congress), Kh. Ibomcha Singh (Aam Aadmi Party), Oinam Jotin Singh (Jai Maha Bharat Party), Gurumayum Tonsana Sharma (Manipur Democratic Peoples Front) and Indira Oinam (Independent).
The chief electoral officer said 136 companies of security forces would be used for tomorrow’s polling from 7am to 4pm. One section of armed paramilitary forces would be deployed in each hypersensitive and sensitive booth.
The seven groups, whose cadres will be allowed to vote, are United Revolutionary Front, Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (Military Defence Force), Kangleipak Communist Party (Lamphel), United People’s Party of Kangleipak, United Tribal Liberation Army, Kangleipak Communist Party (Nongdrenkhomba) and Kangleipak Communist Party Military Council (Lallumba).
Nabakishore Singh said arrangements to allow the cadres to vote in their respective polling stations were made after consultations with director-general of police Sahid Ahmed.
“We will provide them security while coming to their polling stations. We have also discussed the arrangements with Sambhu Singh, joint secretary in the Union home ministry,” Nabakishore Singh said.


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Real leadership is never easy. So it
deserves to be recognized.
That's why we ought to congratulate the Republican Study Committee and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., for stepping forward and offering to help pay for Hurricane Katrina reconstruction by returning the federal money they won for highway and byway projects in their districts -- projects tucked away in the latest highway bill.
Unfortunately, even if all their colleagues go along with the current challenge to turn back half their transportation "earmarks," or special projects, that will raise only $25 billion. Congress already has appropriated $62 billion for Katrina relief, and some observers expect the final tab will exceed $200 billion.
Clearly, we'll have to trim much more from the federal budget if we are to even come close to offsetting the rising cost of fixing the Gulf Coast. Failure to offset this massive spending increase will lead only to a still-larger deficit, which would crowd out other worthy priorities and lead us to borrow more from undependable foreign markets.
All the more reason to consider a bold idea floated by Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., and others: Cancel, or at least delay, implementing the huge Medicare drug entitlement set to take effect on Jan. 1.
McCain, wisely enough, says we should abandon the Medicare drug program altogether and go back to the drawing board and design a rational and responsible drug benefit. But even the RSC's more modest suggestion to delay its implementation for a year is a big step in the right direction.
According to the Bush administration, the drug benefit is projected to cost $37.4 billion next year alone, the first down payment on a massive entitlement that will add $8.7 trillion to the long-term debt of Medicare. A simple delay would yield big savings.
Some painful choices will have to be made for the hurricane-rebuilding projects. But a delay in a drug program that doesn't yet even exist isn't one of them. Roughly three out of four seniors already have some form of drug coverage. Congress should help the minority who are too poor to buy private drug coverage, are ineligible for Medicaid or aren't covered by their former employers. And the new Medicare drug-discount cards, which already have provided big savings for millions of seniors, could be the way to deliver direct help to poor seniors who need it.
Moreover, the intended beneficiaries of the drug benefit aren't exactly clamoring for it. Recent surveys show that about a third of seniors have a favorable impression of the benefit; about a third have an unfavorable impression; and about a third are neutral or don't know enough to form an opinion.
And why should seniors be enthusiastic about such a program? Many of those already covered by former employers will have their coverage either scaled back to a minimum standard established by Congress or dropped altogether. Because taxpayers will be picking up the tab, the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that 2.7 million seniors will be moved out of their existing private coverage next year. Some estimate that still more seniors will be forced into the program after that, and virtually all analysts agree the program will accelerate the decline of private, employer-based coverage.
And the 6.4 million poor seniors whose drugs are covered under Medicaid, of course, will be required to enter the Medicare drug program, regardless of their personal wishes.
To make matters worse, many of those forced into the Medicare drug program will, within the year, learn first-hand of its infamous "doughnut hole." That's the big gap in coverage that forces some high-cost beneficiaries to pay 100 percent of their drug bills until they spend $3,600 out of pocket. Given escalating drug costs for the sickest seniors and the way the bill is designed, the Kaiser Family Foundation estimates that 6.9 million seniors will fall into the doughnut hole in 2006. That process will be repeated each year.
In other words, next year we'll have a costly new government program that few want before it's implemented and fewer will like after it's implemented. We also have an immediate and extreme need to free up some funds for hurricane victims in desperate need of relief. We have the chance to re-allocate tens of billions of dollars from a bad idea to a necessary effort.
So how about it, Congress? Why not cancel the drug entitlement and target assistance to those who need the most help? If not, how about at least delaying its implementation and continuing aid to seniors who need it most through a juiced-up Medicare discount-card program?
Nobody disputes the urgency of helping poor seniors get the drugs they need. In either case, Congress needs to take another crack at designing a Medicare drug benefit that's rational, responsible and affordable.
Robert Moffit is director of the director of the Center for Health Policy Studies at the Heritage Foundation.
Distributed nationally on the Knight-Ridder Tribune wire

domain: finance


I always sleep on one side with my face pressed against my pillow. I am starting to wrinkle on the pillow side. Does sleeping in this manner cause wrinkles?
The answer is “Yes”.
We all want to look fresh and rejuvenated in the morning, but the pillow marks on our face just don’t would not go away. But then what is it the cause sleep lines on a fresh new morning?
We all may have different patterns of sleeping but one thing is common to all – the pillows. We all like to cuddle to our pillows and bury our head in them after a daylong grueling work. You may find this comfortable but sleep wrinkles are caused due to sleeping with your face against a pillow. Pressing your face against a hard pillow cause creases on your skin and when this action is repeated night after night the creases take the form of permanent lines.
Why are sleep lines so prominent?
Consider the fact that most of one’s life is spent sleeping. So if you sleep for 8 hours a day you have spent 1/3 of your life sleeping.
Sleep lines are formed over years depending on your sleeping position. So to avoid formation of sleep lines change your sleeping position frequently. Those who sleep with face upward means on the back develop no sleep lines.
Avoid hard cotton pillows-
We generally use cotton pillows, which has tendency to crease and take a shape whenever it is pressed in a certain way. When we sleep on a hard pillows with either our face facing down or sideways then our skin is stretched and pulled in the direction in which it faces pressure. This pressure cause folds and creases which with a long duration spent on pillow pressurizes our skin and leaves a depression, which we call as sleep lines. Use a soft and fluffy pillow that is able to fluff and squish. this pillow being soft eliminates unwanted pressure on the skin thereby preventing creases and folds.
Use satin pillow cases-
Cotton pillow cases do not allow your skin to glide through the surface smoothly.They also takes away the natural oil and moisture from your skin and hair, due to this moisture loss the skin becomes dry and ages much quickly.
Use satin or synthetic cloth as your pillow covers. After all, comfort matters and so does your looks, right!


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Miettinen Jesse showed the first iteration of a cool Blender-made city generator.
3D Artist and Blender enthusiast Miettinen Jesse, a.k.a. Blenderesse, has recently showcased an awesome work-in-progress city generator, currently being developed with Blender. Powered by the software's Geometry Nodes toolset, the generator can create a large variety of buildings, roads that can go in any direction, and other miscellaneous objects commonly found in cities, such as signs, lampposts, traffic lights, and trees. According to the artist, the demonstrated version of the generator is only the "first test round", meaning the project will be further refined and enhanced in the near future.
Previously, the author had also revealed a stunning castle generator, a freezing effect, a tool for scattering pigeons, a wind-blown tree, a Geometry Nodes-powered bridge generator that can adapt to the landscape, a cool-looking wave simulation, an amazing cottage generator built in Blender, and more. You can find all these projects and more by visiting the artist's Twitter page.

domain: design


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Appetizers, Antipasti and Tapas
Crostini con Langostino (Lobster Toast)
Hot appetizers are always my favorites and this one is rich and luscious. Depending on your budget, you can substitute crab or even surimi for the lobster in this recipe. It would even work well with shrimp or any seafood. Make a lot, because they won't last long.
1 cup chopped fresh lobster meat
1/2 cup shredded fresh mozzarella
1/3 cup tomato strips packed with fresh basil
2 tablespoons melted butter
2 tablespoons minced fresh basil
2 teaspoons minced fresh garlic
16 pieces of Italian or French bread sliced into 3/8" thick rounds
Mix lobster, cheese, tomatoes, butter, basil and garlic together. Generously spread on to bread slices. Put on ungreased baking sheet and bake at 400º for 8-10 minutes till the bread slices are hot and crispy.


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Mandalari, G., A. Tomaino, T. Arcoraci, M. Martorana, V. Lo Turco, F. Cacciola, G.T. Rich, C. Bisignano, A. Saija, P. Dugo, K.L. Cross, M.L. Parker, K.W. Waldron, M.S. J. Wickham, 2010. Characterization of polyphenols, lipids and dietary fibre from almond skins (Amygdalus communis L.). Journal of Food Composition and Analysis. 23:166–174.
Almond skins and blanch water are underutilized by-products of the almond processing industry. Nevertheless, they contain exploitable components that may contribute to the health benefits associated with almond consumption. We have compared natural almond skin powder (NS) prepared by a novel freeze-thawing method with blanched almond skin powder (BS). Microstructural studies were carried out, and we analyzed both types of almond skin for phenolic compounds (by HPLC), lipids (by solvent extraction), proteins (by micro-Kjeldahl), and fibre content (by the enzymatic-gravimetric AOAC method). Antioxidant activity (by measuring the reduction of the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical) was also monitored. We identified a combination of flavonols, flavan-3-ols, hydroxybenzoic acids and flavanones in NS, BS and in industrially obtained blanch water (BW). As expected, the total phenolic content was higher in NS compared to BW and BS, although the latter showed high antioxidant properties. Almond skins had high fibre content as well as significant amounts of lipid; both of these components may be relevant to fermentation in the large intestine. In addition, the processing of almond skins and blanch water clearly has economic potential for lowering the environmental impact of waste fill and pollution.
previous abstractAlmond (Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb) polyphenols: From chemical characterization to targeted analysis of phenolic metabolites in humans.

domain: chemistry


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WWE Monday Night Raw comes waltzing back into our lives tonight (Mar. 8, 2021) from the ThunderDome at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, featuring all the latest build to the upcoming Fastlane pay-per-view (PPV) scheduled for later this month in the very same venue.
Advertised for tonight: Bobby Lashley and the rest of The Hurt Business will get together for a celebration of his WWE championship won last week. Elsewhere, Braun Strowman believes Shane McMahon cost him the Raw tag team titles, among other things, so he’s demanding an apology from Shane O’Mac for it. All that and more!
Come right back here at 8 p.m. ET when the Raw live blog kicks off once the show starts on USA. It will be below this line here. (REMINDER: NO GIFS OR PICS ARE ALLOWED IN THE COMMENTS SECTION. OFFENDERS WILL BE BANNED.)

domain: entertainment


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Nagpur Lok Sabha constituency: BJP's Nitin Gadkari confident of third straight victory, to face Congress' Vikas Thakre on April 19
"We will uproot all gangs and goons": CM Shinde after meeting Salman post firing outside his residence
"Captain I want to win matches for....": RR players, personnel praise Samson as he celebrates 10 years with franchise
"Their efforts will shape the future of our nation": PM Modi congratulates all candidates who cleared UPSC Civil Services exam
India win toss, opt to field against West Indies in first ODI
Bridgetown: India skipper Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to field against West Indies in the first ODI on Thursday at the Kensington Oval.
India capped off an impressive display earlier in the two-match Test series. They won the series by 1-0 and will be looking to continue their hot form in the ODI's as well. This series will certainly aid them in their quest of claiming the World Cup. India skipper Rohit Sharma said during the time of toss, "We are gonna field first, no particular reason. We are gonna try a few different things. We want to head into the World Cup with a clear mindset. For us, the results are also important. At times, we are going to try out different players but the results are important for us. All cricketers around the world who are playing all formats need to adapt well. Hopefully, we can get what we want here. We have got four seamers and two spinners."
West Indies skipper Shai Hope said during the time of toss, "Every series means a lot. We've got to play each game and each series to win. Now is a good opportunity to do so against a top team. We have got some quality spinners as well. We will try to put up a good score on the surface. There will be a bit moisture and we need to be bat carefully in the beginning."
India Playing XI: Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Ishan Kishan(w), Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Umran Malik, Mukesh Kumar
West Indies Playing XI: Shai Hope(w/c), Kyle Mayers, Brandon King, Alick Athanaze, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Romario Shepherd, Yannic Cariah, Dominic Drakes, Jayden Seales, Gudakesh Motie.


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Kindermusik Imagine That
Kindermusik Imagine That is a Drop-Off Class that offers the best of everything in Music & Movement! In each class we take your child on an exciting musical journey by integrating storytelling with creative dance and movement, singing and vocal play, instrument exploration, drum and xylophone play, as well as fingering and exploring the keyboard, which helps your child become familiar with the piano and will prepare them for future music study. Our Imagine That class is the perfect place for your active, energetic, enthusiastic Preschooler and will nurture their blossoming social skills and self-confidence, while also providing an engaging introduction to the world of music, art, culture, drama and dance – all in an environment full of joy, smiles, silliness, friends, and of course, imagination!
You are welcome to join an ongoing class at any time for a prorated discount!
(to see more information about our classes including prices, click on the title)
Fall 2017: "See What I Saw" (Sept 11 - Jan 13)
See What I Saw:
See What I Saw takes your child on an imaginary trip to Grasshopper Park. We will use our imaginations to imitate the sounds we hear, meet and discover animal friends through puppet play, and enjoy a make-believe picnic together. While activities are centered on your child’s pretend play and imagination, this curriculum also includes a strong musical emphasis on singing, steady beat and ensemble, as well as rhythmic patterns.
By incorporating a child’s ideas and feelings into each lesson, we are affirming that their thoughts and ideas are important and worth exploring. Each little success is noticed and celebrated. Each week your child will grow by leaps and bounds in this fun-filled journey of imagination!
PLEASE NOTE: See What I Saw is a drop-off class with parent/caregiver participation in the last 10 minutes of class. (Siblings are welcome during this time as well.)
Class Time: 45-minutes, once a week for 15-weeks.
Class Breaks: Nov 20 – 25 & Dec 19 – Jan 1
Class Tuition and Materials: $285.00
You are welcome to join an ongoing class at any time during the session for a prorated discount.
|Wednesdays||11:40 a.m. - 12:25 p.m.||Miss Rebecca||FULL||Add to Waitlist|
|Thursdays||12:30 - 1:15 p.m.||Miss Rebecca||FULL||Add to Waitlist|
|Thursdays||6:00 - 6:45 p.m.||Miss Rebecca||FULL||Add to Waitlist|
|Fridays||12:45 - 1:30 p.m.||Miss Rebecca||2 spots left||Register|
|Saturdays||12:45 - 1:30 p.m.||Miss Rebecca||FULL||Add to Waitlist|

domain: artistic


No products in the cart.
Glass Cutting Frame made of high quality, distortion and wear resistant composite material (Pertinax). Stable, precise and easy-to-set design with mm scale. An ideal tool for serial cutting
Radius corner template, 10-70 mm. To easily mark and check on Corners before and after grinding ans Polishing. Helps to keep all Corners identical. Round corner template made of high-quality, distortion-resistant and wear-resistant composite material (Pertinax).
3 point cut break tool with plastic inserts for breaking glass after scoring. Suitable for 3 -12mm glass.
A high quality oil glass cutter. Model with narrow, also replaceable, movable cutting head. Especially suitable for cutting profile glass.
The Powr-Grip® pump-activated suction lifter with a lightweight ABS handle is suitable for handling flat and air-tight objects. The red ring on the pump tappet allows permanent visual monitoring of the vacuum.
Aluminum pump siphon with special rubber disc (220 mm) for curved and highly structured surfaces. Due to its strongly curved rubber disc, this suction plate on must be pressed firmly onto the substrate to be sucked, only then the air between the substrate and the suction disc is evacuated by means of the pump tappet by actuating the pump tappet. Permanent visual control of the vacuum through the red ring on the pump tappet.


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Radhika Madan recently make headlines for her style statement during the promotion of her upcoming film Shiddat. The actress was seen wearing a black bralette and high-waisted patterned slacks. While fans praised the look many also trolled her for the unique style. However, Radhika has made it clear that the trolls don't bother her.
The actress said, 'I remember putting the photographs on my social media in the evening and the next morning I saw all the messages but honestly, I wasn't bothered about what the trolls have to comment."
She revealed that she loved her own outfit and that mattered to her more. "I love what I was wearing and if someone did not like it, it is their opinion. It is my body and if I feel confident, I will wear whatever I like. Nobody can tell me what to wear, how I look, whether I'm pretty or not. I know how I look and I believe in it," she told News18.com.
The actress on September 28 also unveiled the first song from the upcoming film with Sunny Kaushal. Shiddat's latest track 'Hum Dum' features the duo as two young lovers crushing on each other. The romantic track captures the essence of young love.
The lyrics of the song are penned by Kunwar Juneja and the song is sung by Ankit Tiwari, while the music is composed by Gourov Dasgupta.
Coming back to Radhika, she began her career on the small screen and then shifted to films with Vishal Bhardwaj's Pataakha, Angrezi Medium and is all set to be seen in Shiddat alongside Sunny Kaushal, Mohit Raina and Diana Penty. Directed by Kunal Deshmukh, the film will be released on October 1 on Disney+Hotstar.


News related to 'Avantium acquires 'extensive patent portfolio' of Liquid Light'
Oman notes shift to RO, as water demand to rise 5 per cent
Oman Power and Water Procurement Company (OPWP) has published its outlook for power and desalinated water supply to 2023.
Qatar and Sweden plot renewables-fuelled desalination project
A renewables-fuelled desalination project aiming to produce water for $1/m3 is to be jointly developed by Qatar and Sweden, reports The Peninsular.
Qatar's first big seawater RO plant is nearly complete
The first large scale seawater RO plant in Qatar, Ras Abu Fontas A3, is to complete by the end of March 2017, reports Gulf Times.
New water company Almar Water Solutions launched by former Abengoa CEO
Almar Water Solutions, a new water infrastructure development company led by former Abengoa chief executive Carlos Cosin, was launched at World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi, January 2017.
Avantium acquires 'extensive patent portfolio' of Liquid Light
Chemical technology company Avantium has acquired the assets of Liquid Light, a developer of proprietary process technologies that make chemicals from carbon dioxide (CO2).
SolRio proposes solar desal for old nuclear power site
SolRio, a US non-profit that supports solar-powered desalination, has proposed turning the decommissioned San Onofre Nuclear Generation Station, California, into a desalination plant.
Kuwait Fund confirms loan for Port Said desalination project
The Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development has confirmed a loan of KWD35 million ($115 million) to the government of Egypt for a 150,000 m3/d seawater desalination plant.
Water. desalination + reuse September edition out now
The first edition of our brand new look quarterly, Water. desalination + reuse, is out now, with all the latest news and views from the front line of the global water desalination and reuse industry.
Adsorption desalination plant opens in Saudi Arabia
A new adsorption water desalination and cooling plant has opened in Solar Village near Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
IDE named in Fortune's top 50 Change the World list of companies
IDE Technologies is ranked second in this year's Fortune top 50 Change the World list of companies, behind GlaxoSmithKline and ahead of General Electric.
Dubai prepares to add desalination capacity at Jebel Ali power station
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has unveiled details of a contract handed to an unnamed company to develop a new desalination facility at Jebel Ali power station.
Water scarcity stokes civil unrest in rural India
The Times of India is reporting a series of protests about a lack of drinking water by groups of hundreds of people in rural areas of southern India.
MIT researchers host Reddit Ask Me Anything session on photovoltaic EDR system
Researchers at MIT have developed a solar-powered electrodialysis system that could "provide 250 million people in India with safe and affordable water," MIT News reports.
Review of global green energy shows solar pv is on the rise
The world now adds more renewable power capacity than it does fossil fuel capacity each year, with 147 GW of renewable energy capacity added in 2015.
Global demand for desalination to rise each year until at least 2020
Desalination capacity is expected to grow by 8 per cent annually to 140 million m3/d by 2020, new research shows.


We are here to help . . .
Information and tools related to your state’s specific programs are offered below. If you are uninsured and do not qualify for a government sponsored insurance program, you may be eligible for free or discounted services, depending on your income level and circumstances, through our Payment Assistance Program. For more information please contact 866.803.1774.
Government Program Resources for the Uninsured
The Foundation for Health Coverage Education (FHCE) offers a unique online tool and call center to help you find health coverage. Answer five simple questions about your household and instantly receive a customized profile with information on public and private health plans for which family members in your household may qualify. The tool can be accessed by clicking on the links below, or you can call the US Uninsured Help Line at 800.234.1317.
State Specific Resources
California FHCE California Tools & Resources
Finding Healthcare Coverage in California Booklet: English Spanish
CA Healthcare Options Matrix: - English Spanish
Medi-Cal Application: English Spanish
COBRA: Your Ultimate Health Coverage Guide
If you are ineligible for a government program, you may qualify for our needs based Payment Assistance program. For more information please contact 866.803.1774.
Affordable Care Act
You now have access to insurance for your entire family through the Affordable Care Act, learn more at dignityhealth.org/enroll.


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Meridian Symphony Chorus & William Carey University Chorale
December 5, 2020
A Meridian Symphony family tradition! Join the Orchestra, the Meridian Symphony Chorus, the William Carey University Chorale and special guest, hometown celebrity Todd Tilghman, for this festive celebration featuring beautiful sounds of the season - old and new - including the traditional family sing-alongs.
The MSU Riley Center will be ringing with holiday cheer and filled with exciting fun for everyone, including wassail, cookies and cocoa, and a special appearance from Jolly Old St. Nick and his elves!
Meridian sounds joyful!
We invite you to join us at a post-concert reception (location TBD).
This concert takes place at our home venue, the MSU Riley Center, and begin at 7:00PM.


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Indigenous education, recognition the focus of Surrey Canada Day event
On July 1, the City of Surrey will recognize Canada Day with a lineup of Indigenous education, recognition, and cultural sharing.
The organizers of Virtual Surrey Canada Day 2021 are spotlighting the entertainment and cultural practices of Indigenous artists along with multicultural artists. This free online event is intended to celebrate diversity and showcase the best that Canada has to offer.
- Canada Day celebrations cancelled in more BC cities
- Abbotsford International Airshow returning as drive-in event for 2021
- TD Vancouver International Jazz Festival welcomes back small live audiences this summer
“The City of Surrey is proud to present international icon Buffy Sainte-Marie and nationally recognized Canadian stars Walk Off the Earth and Jim Cuddy to our virtual stage. I invite you to tune in to our livestream to celebrate incredible Canadian talent and our great country.”
For more than half a century, Cree singer-songwriter Buffy Sainte-Marie has been winning awards for her innovative music and advocating for Indigenous people worldwide. She is also the first Indigenous person ever to win an Academy Award.
Indie pop stars Walk Off the Earth are best known for their playful YouTube videos of both their own original songs and covers of other bands’ hits.
Jim Cuddy has long been a favourite on the country rock scene thanks to his many years with Blue Rodeo.
The incredible lineup of entertainment also includes Canadian favourites Bedouin Soundclash, William Prince, JoJo Mason and Celeigh Cardinal. Additional performers include JJ Lavallee, Carsen Gray, Notorious Cree, Road Engine Dreams, Tim Elijah, Davita Marsden & Matthew Stevens, Darcie Brertton, Madelaine McCallum, Renae Morriseau and the Tzokam Traditional Lil’wat Singers, along with Tyler Joe Miller, the Royal Academy of Bhangra, Buni Kor, Ndidi Cascade, Ria Mae and Erica Sigurdson.
Virtual Surrey Canada Day 2021 will feature a land acknowledgement from Kwantlen First Nation. Surrey is situated on the traditional, ancestral and unceded territories of the Coast Salish Peoples, including the q̓icə̓ y̓ (Katzie), q̓wɑ:n̓ƛən̓ (Kwantlen) and Semiahma (Semiahmoo) land-based nations.
“We are delighted to support an opportunity for the people of Surrey to celebrate Canada Day in a safe way in 2021,” Alan Davis, president of Kwantlen Polytechnic University, said in a statement.
“Having moved most of our classes online during the pandemic, we know firsthand that virtual experiences, while different, are a valuable way of bringing people together to build and strengthen the bonds of friendship and community. We look forward to celebrating the pride and diversity of Canada and the City of Surrey this coming Canada Day.”
More information about Virtual Surrey Canada Day 2021 is available online.
Virtual Surrey Canada Day 2021
When: July 1, 2021
Time: Family Show 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., Evening Show 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Facebook and YouTube Live
Info: Available online


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Geisinger, Medial EarlySign partnership uses artificial intelligence to improve health outcomes
Geisinger partnered with Medial EarlySign, a leader in machine learning-based solutions to aid in early detection and prevention of high-burden diseases, to use artificial intelligence (AI) to predict unplanned hospital admissions, readmissions occurring soon after hospital discharge, healthcare-associated complications, and mortality. The two entities collaborated to develop models that predict the risk of these outcomes using Medicare administrative claims data and created novel visualizations to explain the results in a clinician-friendly manner, a key component of AI implementation.
“We are honored to be recognized as a national leader in using artificial intelligence to improve health outcomes,” said David Vawdrey, Geisinger’s chief data informatics officer. “The opportunity to participate in the CMS competition has significantly broadened our capabilities to design and implement predictive models, which will ultimately help prevent unnecessary hospitalizations and complications and reduce healthcare costs.”
Geisinger and EarlySign’s shared vision of innovation and their collective focus on patient-centered care garnered recognition by CMS for “consistent strong performance across all competition elements while generating the best prediction accuracy results.” Their ability to successfully communicate predictions to clinicians, known as AI explainability, was a key factor in their selection as runner-up.
“This achievement demonstrates the synergistic relationship Geisinger and EarlySign have in the journey to provide better care for patients,” said Ori Geva, co-founder and chief executive officer of Medial EarlySign. “This recognition is another validation that successful clinical AI solutions require deep understanding of clinical workflow, and expertise in clinical machine learning and clinical data.”
The CMS AI Health Outcomes Challenge launched in 2019 with more than 300 entities proposing AI solutions for predicting patient health outcomes. Submissions aimed to forecast a variety of outcomes, including unplanned admissions related to heart failure, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and various other high-risk conditions; and adverse events such as hospital-acquired infections, sepsis, and respiratory failure.
Geisinger was chosen as one of seven finalists in November 2020. To select the winner and runner-up, CMS conducted a rigorous evaluation process, supported by a team of AI scientists. Clinicians from the American Academy of Family Physicians, a CMS partner in the AI Challenge, reviewed and scored the models’ explainability. Submissions were reviewed and winners selected by a panel of CMS senior leadership.
For more information on Geisinger’s work with artificial intelligence and machine learning, click here.
About Medial EarlySign™
Medial EarlySign helps healthcare systems keep patients healthier longer. EarlySign accelerates the successful use of AI and Machine Learning solutions within clinical workflows with insights driven from real world data allowing early detection and prevention of high-burden complications and conditions. With a focus on better outcomes and reduced costs, EarlySign partners with clients to deploy one or more of its pre-built, outcome-focused solutions (AlgoMarkers™) for augmenting early detection of cancers, indicating chronic diseases progression and deterioration, stratifying risks for unplanned admissions and adverse events and complications from infectious diseases. EarlySign also partners to co-develop custom predictive models using its AI Framework and rich clinical data expertise. The company’s machine learning results has been supported by peer-reviewed research published by internationally recognized health organizations and hospitals. Founded in 2009, Medial EarlySign is headquartered in Israel and the US. For more information, please visit us at earlysign.com. Follow Medial EarlySign on LinkedIn and Twitter.
Geisinger is committed to making better health easier for the more than 1 million people it serves. Founded more than 100 years ago by Abigail Geisinger, the system now includes 10 hospital campuses, a health plan with more than half a million members, a research institute and the Geisinger College of Health Sciences, which includes schools of medicine, nursing and graduate education. With more than 25,000 employees and 1,700+ employed physicians, Geisinger boosts its hometown economies in Pennsylvania by billions of dollars annually. Learn more at geisinger.org or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.
For media inquiries:
Ashley Andyshak Hayes
Marketing & Communications

domain: medical


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The religion that revolves around
the creation of the universe via a peanut, and the prophets
Medardo and Kaiser, all given from
the viewpoint of an überlord, Kuklinski. An interesting, yet humerous, tale about the life and crucifixion of Medardo, and Kaiser's numerous
fights with the Greco-Roman gods.
And, on the first day. Kaiser created
nothing. On the second day, Kaiser
made a peanut butter and mayonaise sandwich. On the third, fourth, and fifth
took a nap. On the sixth day, when
he woke up...

domain: library


During the daytime hours, Donkey Coffee is your standard cozy coffee shop, but when the sun sets, it transforms into a platform for musicians such as the alternative-pop group known as Wreck League, who took the stage last Friday night.
Hailing from Dayton, Ohio, Wreck League formed in the latter part of 2018 and have been making music together ever since, with no signs of slowing down.
“Ah, not this question,” sighed keyboard/piano player Alek Zamonski when asked to describe what genre of music he felt Wreck League best fit into. “We decided to classify our latest single as alternative pop.” Zamonski said. “But, with heavy influences from rock and jazz music,” added lead singer and guitarist Maxwell Souders.
These influences are definitely apparent throughout the band's music. Each melodic guitar chord is complemented beautifully by the keystrokes of the piano, giving off a jazz-like impression. However, when paired with the rock-inspired drum rolls of drummer Benjamin Zammarron, and funky riffs from bassist Kieran Harris, it creates a unique sound that is admittedly hard to classify under just one genre.
The clock finally strikes 8 p.m., and the group makes their way to their instruments. The audience is seated in the dimly lit, comfortable back room of Donkey, eagerly awaiting the show to commence.
The band shared some concerns about performing in a smaller venue than they are accustomed to, unsure of how it would go. However, after a short trial and error period, the vocals and bass were adjusted and it was nothing but smooth sailing from then on.
Due to the constraints of the smaller venue, it was clear Souders was holding back a tad on his vocals to not upset the microphone, but his range was still able to be appreciated nonetheless.
For a band that has only been together for less than half a decade, their chemistry is impressive, not only as musicians but as friends as well, exchanging knowing smiles, laughs and jabs between songs.
Each song was well-researched, allowing for the band to have some fun throughout their set, meaning every instrument had its own solo at one point or another, evoking cheers and shouts of encouragement from the audience.
At one point, to the crowd's astonishment, the group did a total 180, with Souders heading over to the piano and Zammaron coming off drums to take up a spot in front of the microphone and performing a song he wrote a while ago, to the tune of “Pure Imagination.” As if this switch-up wasn’t impressive enough, the lead singer jokingly bragged to the spectators that this song was hardly even rehearsed.
This type of rhetorical banter between Souders and the crowd also made the show that much more enjoyable, keeping the mood light and utilizing every second under the spotlight that he could.
Finally, after about an hour and a half performance, the group waved their goodbyes as the lights came back up and the audience’s clapping died down.
When asked about what the future holds for Wreck league, they shared that a new album is in the works and planning to be released sometime this summer. Their latest single, “Postcard,” is not only the band's favorite song they have produced but also a taste of what the upcoming album will sound like Zamonski said.
Whatever comes next for this talented group, they assure us that they are “all in” when it comes to music, which is why we hope to see them back in Athens again soon.


Earth Worm Behavior
Earthworms can sometimes be found on the surface of the ground following heavy rain storms, as a storm may flood the soil with excessive water. However, if the surface where they find themselves is unexpectedly paved, rocky, or compacted (hardened), they may become stranded, potentially suffering injury or death from causes such as heat, exposure, dehydration, or predation. Note, there are some earthworm species that can survive for several days in water if it is sufficiently oxygenated.
Earthworms may also come to the surface during rain in order to mate, and therefore, an alternative hypothesis concerning "stranding" behavior is that as some species (notably Lumbricus terrestris) come to the surface to mate they may become stranded. However, this behavior is limited to only a few species and L. terrestris is rarely, if ever, one of those found stranded on impermeable surfaces, this hypothesis does not seem likely to be true.
Another hypothesis is that the worms may be using the moist conditions on the surface to travel more quickly than they can underground, thus moving to and colonizing new areas more quickly. Since the relative humidity of the surface and air is higher during and after rain, they do not become dehydrated quite as rapidly. However, if true, this is a very risky behavior near dawn, in high summer, or in the daytime, since earthworms die quickly when exposed to direct sunlight with its high heat, light and strong UV content, and are more vulnerable to predators such as birds.
An earthworm being eaten by an American Robin.
A further hypothesis is that, because there are many other organisms beside the earthworm in the ground as well, and these organisms all tend to increase respiration as water content of the soil increases, carbon dioxide gas may dissolve into the rainwater forming a higher than usual acid content carbonic acid in the soil area. As the soil becomes too acidic for the worms, they seek a more neutral environment on the surface.
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One of Hollywood’s most financially successful filmmakers yet often critically derided, Bay has directed films such as Bad Boys, The Rock, Pearl Harbor and the Transformers trilogy.
During the 1980s, two Hollywood producers changed the face of American cinema. Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer took the blockbuster to new levels through the notion of ‘high concept’ filmmaking, where a simple premise forms the backbone of a film incorporating a contemporary aesthetic that can be promoted through multi-platform marketing. They were behind such decade defining hits as Top Gun (1986), Beverly Hills Cop (1984) and Flashdance (1983); films that favour surface style over philosophical nuances and were accompanied by product tie-ins and pop-music soundtracks with singles played repeatedly on MTV.
In the early 1990s Simpson and Bruckheimer were searching for fresh talent to take under their wing and a director for their next project, a buddy-cop movie entitled Bad Boys. What they found was Michael Bay.
A native of Los Angeles, California, Bay was born in 1965. His interest in filmmaking began after a brief internship working for George Lucas during the pre-production and filming of Raiders of the Lost Ark. He subsequently studied English and Film at university and in his postgraduate studies before finding work directing commercials and music videos for the likes of Meat Loaf and Tina Turner. His success in this field brought him to the attention of Simpson and Bruckheimer who offered him the directorship of Bad Boys (1995), a film that would not only launch Bay’s career after he turned a $19million budget into a $141million success, but also make Will Smith an A-list star.
Since Bad Boys, Bay has helmed a string of box office hits, including The Rock (1995), Armageddon (1998) and, despite its lambasting from critics and historians alike, Pearl Harbor (2001). More recently he has dominated the summer blockbuster charts with his Transformers trilogy, the last of which took over $1billion worldwide, and he is currently working on the Mark Wahlberg-starring reboot, Transformers: Age of Extinction (2014).
Alongside directing, Bay has also produced an array of horror movie remakes through his production company, Platinum Dunes, supported other films through his visual effects company, Digital Domain, and continued to work in advertising – including adverts for Victoria’s Secret, where he discovered Transformers: Dark of the Moon star Rosie Huntington-Whitely – via his company The Institute.
Bay’s origins in advertising are evident throughout his filmmaking, directing cars, guns and women with a capitalist eye that objectifies and commercialises them. His detractors leap on this aesthetic, condemning him as misogynistic and superficial, with critics such as Mark Kermode describing it as a ‘pornographic sensibility’. However, Bay’s use of high-contrast lighting and colour creates striking imagery, which coupled to constantly moving cameras, low angles, and slow motion has created the quintessential Hollywood hero-shot. Some may contend Bay’s application of this style to his subject matter, but his eye for imagery is undeniable.
His films are successful for a reason; he gives his audience what they want, if not what they need. Bay choreographs action set-pieces like no other, and unlike many directors who have an over-reliance on CGI Bay favours practical effects wherever possible – he even claimed a Guinness World record for the biggest on-screen explosion with actors present in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. His films pack action, comedy, spectacle and heroism into blockbusters that offer escapist entertainment; his works may be guilty pleasures – pleasures critics and cinephiles would have us feel very, very guilty about – but for his target audience Bay consistently delivers.
Embodying the spirit of Simpson and Bruckheimer’s high concept filmmaking, Bay’s creations are exemplars of style over substance; but when that style looks this good, why not just enjoy it?
Top 5 Michael Bay films:
The Rock (1996) – When mercenaries take over the tourist trap and former prison of Alcatraz a former inmate and a scientist are San Francisco’s only hope. Funny, tense and thrilling, this is arguably Bay’s best film.
Armageddon (1998) – An asteroid hurtles to earth so NASA attempts to train a team of drilling experts as astronauts to detonate a bomb deep inside the rock. The bombastic adventure sees a wonderful ensemble cast clearly having a blast.
Bad Boys 2 (2003) – You ain’t seen Bad Boys 2?! Bay’s sequel sees Smith and Lawrence return for an overblown but ridiculously enjoyable cop film that turns everything up to 11.
The Island (2005) – In the future, Lincoln begins to question his role in life – and his humanity. Bay’s most underrated film, this is a 1970s-style sci-fi thriller has greater depth and invention than his other works.
Transformers: Dark of the Moon (2011) – Bay’s third instalment of the Transformers franchise comes closest to the epic sci-fi potential of the series and features his most impressive action set-pieces to-date.
What do you think of Michael Bay? Is he everything that’s wrong with Hollywood today? Or a creater of fun bombastic blockbusters? Tell us what you think below…


text:
By Christopher Roberson
When Lynnfield voters go to the polls on Nov. 6, they will find that incumbent State Senator Brendan Crighton is the lone candidate to represent the Third Essex District.
“I am excited for this upcoming session and will continue to fight for improved transportation options for the North Shore and more resources to our schools so that every child has the best opportunity possible to succeed,” he said in a written statement.
Crighton became a senator in April of this year after he ran unopposed in the General Special Election to replace former State Senator Thomas McGee.
Crighton encountered some slight competition in the Feb. 6 Special Primary Election when he was challenged by Lynnfield Attorney Michael Walsh. However, the results of that race showed that Crighton had garnered 2,148 votes from residents in the Third Essex District. In contrast, Walsh received 152 votes, which was 148 votes shy of the minimum requirement to be on the ballot in the General Special Election.
In addition to his day-to-day responsibilities representing the Third Essex District, Crighton serves as the chairman of the Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government and as the vice chairman of the Joint Committee on Housing. He is also the co-chairman of the Metropolitan Beaches Commission.
One of Crighton’s major accomplishments was the passage of Senate Bill 2531: An Act Providing Continued Investment In The Life Sciences Industry In The Commonwealth.
“This authorizes nearly $463 million in bonds for continued job growth through capital grants that advance education, workforce development, advanced bio-manufacturing, scientific innovation and early-stage company growth,” he said.
Working with state Rep. Bradley Jones, Crighton also secured $50,000 to hire a substance abuse–prevention coordinator in Lynnfield. The town recently announced that Peg Sallade, the former director of DanversCARES, was chosen to fill that position. “Substance abuse is an issue that touches families throughout the Commonwealth,” Crighton said in a written statement. “I’m proud to join with [House Minority] Leader Jones to advocate for this important initiative and look forward to continuing our collaborative work with the Lynnfield community.”
Jones and Crighton also pledged their support for House Bill 4516 to “provide ongoing funding support for municipal police training.” Governor Charlie Baker signed the bill into law on July 25. The legislation calls for a $2 surcharge on car rentals, which will take effect on Jan. 1, 2019. Each surcharge will be put into the Municipal Police Training Fund. The new revenue stream is projected to produce $8 million.
Crighton said that “over the years,” there has been outcry from a number of police departments to bolster officer training. “I’m pleased that through this dedicated revenue source, we can adequately fund the training that helps keep both our police and communities safe,” he said.
Before joining the Senate, Crighton was elected in 2014 as the state representative for the 11th Essex District. In the Primary Election, Crighton received 59 percent of the vote and easily defeated Lynn Attorney Charlie Gallo, who had 34 percent, and Lynn resident Aikaterini Koudanis, who had five percent. Prior to running for state office, Crighton worked for McGee from 2005 to 2015, ultimately becoming his chief of staff.
On the local level, Crighton represented Ward 5 on the Lynn City Council from 2010 to 2014 and was a councillor-at-large from 2014 to 2016.
After graduating from Lynn Classical High School in 2001, Crighton went on to receive his bachelor’s degree in government from Colby College in 2005 and his master’s degree in Public Administration from Suffolk University in 2009.


text:
In a city woefully short on updated housing, not to mention one of the poorest in the state, Allegany Junction—a 40-unit development in Cumberland, Maryland—was more than needed.
A third of Cumberland residents and half of local renters spend more than 30% of their income on housing, while 1 in 5 spends more than 50% of their income on it. To make matters worse, local housing is also aging and in poor condition. In fact, more than 40% of local rental stock was built over 80 years ago.
With the $9.7 million Allegany Junction, Woda Cooper Cos. sought to change that. Though the project had its challenges—including an unexpected change in locations—it ultimately came through, providing new, affordable, and energy-efficient two- and three-bedroom homes for the residents of Cumberland.
“This project is a huge investment in our rural community, taking a former school site that had been razed and creating a much-needed low-income housing complex,” says Cumberland mayor Raymond M. Morriss. “This complex filled an essential void in our city and without doubt has improved the quality of life for those now residing here.”
Residents are more than happy with their experience. The units boast open-concept living spaces, Energy Star appliances, and a wide array of energy- and water-saving features that reduce utility bills. The property also has a fitness center, a craft area, an outdoor play lot, and resident social activities.
“I’m very proud of my apartment,” resident Jennifer Shifflett says. “I feel like I live in a penthouse or luxury suite.”

domain: sociology


GCN LAB REVIEW: NETBOOKS
HP Mini but mighty netbook
HP Mini 5101's enhanced communications features make it ideal for wireless or LAN networking
- By Greg Crowe
- Nov 05, 2009
The HP Mini 5101 is the smallest netbook in the review, but it is still one of the best performers. It is only 10.25 inches by 7.25 inches by 1.5 inches, which makes it one of the most portable we tested. Its weight of 2 pounds, 13 ounces is only an ounce away from making the Mini 5101 the lightest in the review.
The Mini 5101’s keyboard was almost luxurious. Each key was spaced 1/8 inch apart from each other. The touchpad could have been bigger, though, and its surface had a little more resistance than what most laptop users might be accustomed to. Nevertheless, the HP was pleasant to use.
The Mini 5101 came with a 160G hard drive, which is about the size one would expect for a netbook. Also, we noted that the wireless client adapter also supports 802.11n draft 2.0, and the local-area network port is 10/100/1000. It is the only netbook in the roundup to have both of those features.
The Mini 5101’s screen was not as bright as others' in the review. It also tended to dim slightly when looked at from an angle, though not by a great deal.
The Intel Atom N280 processor of the Mini 5101 helped produce a benchmark score of 260.1, which is only a few tenths of a point lower than the fastest performer. It lasted 4 hours, 5 minutes in our battery-life testing, which is right in the middle of the group.
The HP Mini 5101 retails for $425, a good price for such an expansive keyboard and enhanced communications features. It would be best suited in an environment with gigabit network connections and/or wireless-N capabilities.
Pros: Large, widely spaced keyboard.
Cons: Touchpad feels unusual.
Battery life: B
Hewlett-Packard, 800-334-5144, www.hp.com
Greg Crowe is a former GCN staff writer who covered mobile technology.


text:
A new film by Jean-Pierre Jeunet ought to feel like an event. After all, the director of Amélie is one of the most idiosyncratic, and cherished, film-makers in contemporary French cinema. And yet, even in a so-so week with room to shine, Micmacs offers a profound sense of anti-climax. To be blunt, it's a non-event.
This is Jeunet-lite, a movie with all of this fabulist's tropes – the parade of misfits and eccentrics, the witty biographical sketches and racy bombardment of plot strands, the visual invention – but lacking the spark that ignites a story in our minds. In Delicatessen, that spark was the introduction to a bizarre universe, a cacophonous comedy of creaking beds in a dystopian boarding house; in Amélie it was Audrey Tautou's magical emotional connection with the camera; in A Very Long Engagement, it was a surprisingly gutsy rendition of war that brought to mind Kubrick's Paths of Glory. Micmacs has no such qualities to engage us. Watching it is like entering an exotic toy shop whose owner has wound up all the toys and then left the premises.
The story concerns Bazil (Dany Boon), a young man with two reasons for hating weapons manufacturers: the landmine that killed his father in Africa, and the stray bullet lodged in his brain that could kill him at any moment. When he discovers the companies responsible for his woes, Bazil plans revenge, with the help of a gang of ragtag misfits who live, literally, beneath a scrapyard, surviving by finding elaborate uses for the junk on their doorstep.
This time around, Jeunet's oddballs, among them a contortionist and a human cannonball, lack charm and distinction. With Boon an almost silent, clownish hero, centre stage is left to the film's villains, the two weapons manufacturers-cum-arms dealers, whose bitter competition creates the film's loudest noise. The uncomfortable friction between what these characters represent, and their cartoonish portraits, edges a dull film towards offensiveness.
It's hard to accept that Robert De Niro, whose vital presence in such films as Mean Streets, Taxi Driver and Raging Bull remains so fresh, so vivid in the memory, is 66. He seems to have no such problems himself, embracing his age much more readily, say, than his great rival Al Pacino. And he's on good form in Everybody's Fine, as an ageing widower who goes on the road in an effort to spend time with his children, unaware of the reason they're avoiding him.
Lest anyone imagine this is a riff on Tokyo Story, whose young people were a selfish bunch intolerant of their parents, it's worth pointing out that the source is the 1990 Italian film Stanno Tutti Bene; moreover, the adult siblings here – a believable clan played by Sam Rockwell, Drew Barrymore and Kate Beckinsale – actually have their dad Frank's interests at heart, keeping a secret they fear will break him. For his part, Frank knows that his children have never found him the most approachable fellow. His trip, against the advice of his doctor, is a belated attempt to connect with them.
Those who bemoan De Niro's descent in recent years into hammy overacting will be pleased to see that, when presented with a half-decent script, the subtlety and stillness that marked his great days return. His performance here is as without vanity as it is full of infinitesimal detail, tiny glances and gestures that convey the tremulous reaching out of a man only now realising the mistakes he may have made in the past.
Of the younger actors Sam Rockwell shines the brightest, as a modest, introspective musician troubled by the knowledge that he has failed to meet his father's lofty expectations. We're reminded that the most conspicuous absentee of this year's Oscar nominations is Rockwell's amazing turn in Moon. His time will come.
De Niro's has, of course. And now he's playing gramps. If Everybody's Fine is a tad too understated, and in need of the light touch of director Kirk Jones's earlier features Waking Ned and Nanny McPhee, it's nevertheless a quietly affecting piece. And worthwhile for the sight of Johnny Boy/ Travis Bickle/Jake LaMotta doing the household chores and pumping up the inflatable pool.
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Back from holiday, Nicholas Barber spies on a steamy ménage à trois involving Liam Neeson, Julianne Moore and Amanda Seyfried in Chloe
Also Showing: 28/02/2010
The Crazies (100 mins, 15)
Ignore the daft title, for this remake of George A Romero's 1973 horror film is cracking B-movie stuff. Timothy Olyphant, TV's greatest ever lawman in Deadwood, plays a small-town sheriff, with Radha Mitchell his doctor wife. The couple survive a virus that turns neighbours into murderous lunatics. The story is both scary and action packed.
Extraordinary Measures (105 mins, PG)
Another inapt title, suggesting a degree of drama. Despite a stirring true-life story – a businessman (Brendan Fraser) enlists a scientist (Harrison Ford) to find a cure for the disease about to kill his children – "dull as dishwater" isn't even close.
From Paris with Love (92 mins, 15)
Shaven-headed John Travolta is the reason to watch this inane, thriller, though perhaps not in the way intended. As a government agent shooting up terrorists (that is, anyone who isn't white) in Paris, the star also sports a goatee that looks painted on. Whatever the all-action havoc he's creating, it's hard to take your eyes off his chin. DM
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Since the Elwha Dam was removed less than five months ago, salmon have already been spotted in the newly opened section of the river.
The Elwha and Glines Canyon Dams were both constructed on the Elwha River nearly a century ago. At that time, the river was famous for its salmon fisheries with hundred-pound fish and waters thick with salmon.
Once the dam was put in, the fish had limited room to spawn and the population declined to a few thousands in recent years. The removal of the dams was expected to allow the salmon and other species to recover, but it’s surprising the recovery is happening so quickly.
Elwha River photo via Shutterstock