text:
  Academic Policy & Innovation
  Accountability, Assessment, and Data Systems
  Career and College Readiness
  Communications, Partnerships, and Grants
  Curriculum, Assessment & Accountability
     Assessment & Accountability
     Title II, Part B: Mathematics and Science Partnerships
     Maryland Teacher Professional Development
     Physical Education
     MD Professional Development Planning Guide
        Cover Sheet
        Step 1
        Step 1.1
        Step 1.2
        Step 1.3
        Step 1.4
        Step 2
        Step 3
        Step 3.1
        Step 3.2
        Step 3.3
        Step 3.4
        Step 3.5
        Step 4
        Step 4.1
        Step 4.2
        Step 4.3
        Step 5
        Step 5.1
        Step 5.2
        Step 5.3
        Planning Tips
     Comprehensive Health Education
     Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland
     World Languages
     World Languages Elementary STEM Curriculum Modules
  Educator Effectiveness
  Early Childhood Development
  Information Technology
  Library Services
  Office of the State Superintendent
  Rehabilitation Services
  Special Education and Early Intervention
  Student, Family, and School Support
Divisions > Curriculum, Assessment & Accountability > MD Professional Development Planning Guide

Maryland Professional Development Planning Guide

            This guide provides a framework for planning professional development that (1) meets teachers’ professional learning needs, (2) contributes to improved student learning, and (3) addresses priorities in district master plans and school improvement plans. The guide is aligned with the Maryland Teacher Professional Development Standards.  It also focuses on the professional development quality indicators addressed by the Maryland State Department of Education’s Survey of Teacher Participation in High-Quality Professional Development.

            Who should use the guide?  Everyone who is responsible for planning professional development activities can use the guide.  Because of the importance of sharing responsibility and distributing leadership for professional development, it is most appropriate for groups, such as school improvement teams (SIT), members of a department or grade-level team, and local and state partnerships and consortia.  Individuals and groups are strongly encouraged to use the guide to plan with external providers and consultants.

            What kinds of activities does the guide help you plan?  The guide will help plan ongoing study groups and similar kinds of collaborative learning activities for teachers and others who may join them.  It will also help plan workshops, training sessions, graduate courses, Continuing Professional Development courses, and professional conferences and meetings.  The guide will be less useful in planning one-time events or short-term activities.  In addition, it will not be particularly useful in planning activities with limited goals, such as providing information about new practices, or with goals that do not explicitly focus on changes in practice and improving student learning outcomes.

            How do I use the guide?  The guide takes you through five steps to develop your plan.  Each step prompts you with questions about key components of the professional development that you are planning.

       Step 1: Identify the need for the activity and who will participate.

       Step 2:  Specify the intended outcomes and begin working
                        on the evaluation plan.

         Step 3: Specify the content, learning activities, and follow
                       up necessary to ensure implementation and use of new
                       knowledge and skills.

         Step 4:   Complete the evaluation plan.

         Step 5:   Identify resource needs and prepare a budget

            In its electronic form, the guide is designed to make it easy to alter the details of your plan as new issues and questions arise.  When the initial planning process is completed, the guide will generate hard copy of your plan that is easy to read and that can be readily shared with others. You can also use the guide for modifying your plan as you receive feedback and suggestions from others.

Getting started with the guide

            When you have finished reading this introduction, click on “NEXT PAGE,” and follow the directions.  You will complete your plan by providing the information requested and responding to the various prompts and questions that are presented.  In some cases, drop-down menus will appear and you can click on the appropriate choices.  In other cases, you will be asked to provide a short written description of an element of your plan.

            Throughout the guide, there are Planning Tips to help you think about specific parts of your plan.  To review a planning tip, just click on the tip and the text will appear.  The planning tips are offered as suggestions.  They do not define requirements for your plan.

            Navigating in the guide is easy.  Use the scroll bar on the right-hand side of the page to move up and down the page and use the “NEXT PAGE” and “PREVIOUS PAGE” buttons to move from one section of the plan to another.

(NEXT PAGE)                                                                  (PREVIOUS PAGE)

Contact Information
Cecilia J. Roe
Director of Instructional Assessment and Professional Development
Maryland State Department of Education
200 West Baltimore Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone:  410-767-0574
Email:  croe@msde.state.md.us
MSDE Privacy Statement Disclaimer  | Copyright © 2003 MSDE


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  Academic Policy & Innovation
  Accountability, Assessment, and Data Systems
  Career and College Readiness
  Communications, Partnerships, and Grants
  Curriculum, Assessment & Accountability
  Educator Effectiveness
  Early Childhood Development
  Information Technology
  Library Services
  Office of the State Superintendent
  Rehabilitation Services
  Special Education and Early Intervention
  Student, Family, and School Support
     Division of Student, Family, and School Support Overview
     Youth Development
     Student Services and Alternative Programs
     Family Support Branch
Divisions > Student, Family, and School Support
Division of Student, Family, and School Support Overview

The Division of Student, Family, and School Support is responsible for administering and supervising federal and State programs to improve the teaching and learning of students who are at risk of academic failure an to help to facilitate the emotional, mental, and physical health needs of all students.

In Focus
Practical Information on Crisis Plans from the US Department of Education
The US Department of Education’s guideline for schools and communities on prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery.

In Focus
Children And Unaccompanied Youth Experiencing Homelessness And The Mckinney-Vento Act

The Division administers programs through the following Branches:

Youth Development Branch
The Youth Development Branch provides leadership, direction, coordination, supervision, and support for the Twenty-First Century Community Learning Centers program, Maryland Student Service Alliance (MSSA), Character Education Office, Maryland Association of Student Councils, and the Maryland Chess program.

Program Improvement and Family Support Branch
The Program Improvement and Family Support Branch helps support local school systems and schools that have high concentrations of children from low-income families.  This support includes planning, operating, and evaluating, programs for educationally disadvantaged students.  The Branch is responsible for the federal Title I program - Improving the Academic Achievement of the Disadvantaged.  Under Title I, specialists oversee the Maryland Parent Advisory Council (M-PAC), Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY), Family Reading Plan, Take 15 for the Family, as well as the Even Start Family Literacy Program.  In addition, migrant students are provided summer learning opportunities, neglected and delinquent students are being served in State institutions, middle school teachers are being served through the Increasing Proficiency for All Students (I-PAS)/Challenge Initiative, and homeless children receive support through the McKinney-Vento Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program.

Student Services and Strategic Planning Branch
The Student Services and Strategic Planning Branch (SSSP) is responsible for providing leadership and technical assistance to local school systems with the implementation of programs and initiatives to facilitate the emotional, mental, social, and physical health of all students. These programs and initiatives include guidance and career development, school psychology, pupil personnel, school social work, school health services, safe and supportive schools, dropout prevention and alternative programs, home instruction, and initiatives to reduce disruption and violence, address at-risk behaviors, and facilitate achievement. The branch works collaboratively with other agencies, community organizations, and stakeholder groups around these initiatives.

In addition, this branch is responsible for programs and initiatives to improve teaching and learning for at-risk students and low-performing schools. These programs include the Bridge to Excellence in Public Schools program, the Ed-Flex Demonstration Program, the Rural and Low-Income Schools Program, and the State-funded Nonpublic Textbook Program. Under the Bridge to Excellence in Public Schools Program, each school system is required to submit to MSDE a comprehensive Master Plan, to be updated annually, designed to improve achievement for all students and eliminate achievement gaps among groups of students.

Office of School Innovations

The Office of School Innovations (OSI) is responsible for providing leadership, support and accountability to new educational initiatives in Maryland Public Schools through the effective design, development and implementation of creative and innovative programs. These innovative programs support the mission of MSDE by providing innovative products and services to enhance academic achievement for students across the state.  This includes providing leadership for the development and implementation of the Maryland Public Charter School Program. Public Charter Schools are one of the Federal and State sanctioned restructuring designs for schools in restructuring status pursuant to No Child Left Behind.

OSI Works directly with local boards of education and superintendents to provide guidance and technical assistance on best authorizing practices as well as assistance in implementing the public charter school law; offers guidance and delivers technical assistance to perspective charter school operators and charter school leadership; provides management, accountability and oversight of the federal grant program as well as all personnel assigned to the management of this grant; and provides leadership, support, and assistance to an innovative Statewide school -the Maryland Public Residential Boarding Education Program operated and managed by the SEED Foundation.

Contact Information
Kristina Kyles, Assistant State Superintendent
Maryland State Department of Education
200 West Baltimore Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone:  410-767-0274
Email:  Kristina.Kyles@maryland.gov
Youth Development
Student Services and Strategic Planning
Program Improvement and Family Support
Office of School Innovations
 Title I
Title I
 21st CCLC
21st Century Community Learning Centers
MSDE Privacy Statement Disclaimer  | Copyright © 2003 MSDE

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text:
 Nonpublic School Approval
  Approved Schools
  Church Exempt Schools
  Home Instruction (Nonpublic Entities)
  Legal Requirements
  Applicant Information
  Nonpublic High School Transcripts
  Nonpublic Schools List
Nonpublic School Approval
Nonpublic School Approval > Legal Requirements > Comar
COMAR 13A.09.10

Educational Programs in Nonpublic Schools and Child Care and Treatment Facilities

Table of Contents

.01 Purpose and Scope

.02 Definitions

.03 Approval Documents for the Educational Program

A. Application for Approval Document
B. Letter of Tentative Approval
C. Certificate of Approval
D. Specifications Recorded on Approval Document
E. Operation Consistent with Specifications on Approval Document
F. Approval Document not Assignable, Transferable or Alterable
G. Posting of Approval Document
H. Changes in Specifications Recorded on Approval Document (Amendment)
I. Approval Required Prior to Implementation of Change
J. When Additional Classification(s) Not Permitted
K. Approval of Change as Means to Demonstrate Compliance
L. Notification Required Before Cessation of Operation
M. Approval Document - Null and Void

.04 Compliance

A. Compliance Required to Maintain Approval Document
B. Annual Report
C. School Open for Inspection

.05 Procedures and Sanctions for Noncompliance

.06 Certifications of Compliance

.07 Health, Fire Safety, and Zoning

.08 Public Relations Information

.09 Type I Educational Program - General Requirements

.10 Type I Educational Program - Student Records and PEP

.11 Type I Educational Program - Behavior Management

.12 Type I Educational Program - Privacy Rights

.13 Type I Educational Program - Instructional Materials and Equipment/Library Media Collection

.14 Type I Educational Program - Daily Schedule and Yearly Calendar

.15 Type I Educational Program - Requirements for General Education Programs

.16 Type I Educational Program - Requirements for a Secondary School Program

.17 Type I Educational Program - Requirements for a Special Education Program

.18 Type I Educational Program - Personnel Requirements

.19 Type II Educational Programs

.20 Type III Educational Programs

Contact Information
Sarah Spross, Chief

Maryland State Department of Education
Division of Educator Effectiveness
Nonpublic School Approval Branch

200 West Baltimore Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone:  410-767-0409

Email:  sspross@msde.state.md.us
MSDE Privacy Statement Disclaimer  | Copyright © 2003 MSDE


text:
  Awards and Recognition
  Bridge to Excellence
  Charter Schools
  Common Core State Standards
  Environmental Programs
  Equity Assurance
  ESEA Flexibility
  ESOL/Title III
  Family Literacy
  Financial Literacy
  Gifted and Talented
  Homeless Education Assistance
  Maryland Skills2Compete
  Military Families
     Maryland Schools Support Military Families
     Military Support Websites
     Interstate Compact
  Multicultural Education
  No Child Left Behind
  Parent Involvement Matters Award
  Race to the Top
  Residential Education Program
  Response to Intervention
  School / Community Nutrition
  School Wellness Policy
  STEM Education
  Teacher and Principal Evaluation
  Technology/Library Media
  Title I
  21st Century Learning Centers
Programs > Military Families
Maryland Schools Support Military Families

The Maryland State Department of Education is focused on educational excellence, workforce readiness, and child care delivery. The Department’s webpage provides families with a wide array of information about Maryland's local school systems.

On this webpage you will find links to Maryland’s 24 local school systems; security clearance information; and publications and materials that are topic specific or that provide a snapshot of Maryland’s education excellence. In addition, you will find information related to Teacher Certification and transfer; STEM education; the Gifted and Talented program; Minority Achievement; Environmental programs; Autism; Child Care; and Career Technology Education. If you are looking for information specific to a Maryland public school system or school, please visit www.mdreportcard.org which offers assessment and demographic information accountability.

In Maryland we remain focused on making our education system the best in the country – and we’re succeeding.

You can find brochures detailing news about Maryland on this website under publications. I can assure you that MSDE will continue to work with all school systems to ensure our State remains at the top – especially as those affected by military transfers begin to call Maryland their home.

Thank You and Welcome to Maryland!

Maryland Public Schools: #1 in the Nation

Contact Information
Mary L. Gable, Assistant State Superintendent
Division of Academic Policy & Innovation
Maryland State Department of Education
200 West Baltimore Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone:  410.767.0473
Fax:  410.333.0714
Email:  mary.gable@maryland.gov
 MSDE Search
Practicum: Living in the New Normal: Helping Children Thrive in Good and Challenging Times, 10.12.2012
Publications and Materials
Security Clearance
Community Services Sites
 Interstate Compact
Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children
 Military Support Websites
Military Support Websites
Impact on Services for Students with Disabilities-Oct. 2007
 Supporting Students With Deployed Family Members
Parents Called to Active Duty: Helping Children Cope
Resources for Military Families
Military One Source
Military Child Education Coalition
MCEC Newsletter
Military Child Initiative through Johns Hopkins
Educator's Guide to the Military Child During Deployment
Military Life: Moving and Deployment
Navy School Liaison Officer
MSDE Privacy Statement Disclaimer  | Copyright © 2003 MSDE


text:
  Awards and Recognition
  Bridge to Excellence
  Charter Schools
  Common Core State Standards
  Environmental Programs
     Environmental Education
     General Information
        Educational Outcomes
        State Regulations
     Green Computing Certification
     Green Ribbon Schools
     For Teachers
     Environmental Education ToolKit
     Awards and Recognition
     Chesapeake Bay 2000
     Climate Change Resources
     Environmental Health
     STEM and EE Lessons and Resources
     Maryland Service Learning and the Environment
     Ocean Science
     Advanced Placement and Undergraduate Majors
     Model Environmental Education Programs
  Equity Assurance
  ESEA Flexibility
  ESOL/Title III
  Family Literacy
  Financial Literacy
  Gifted and Talented
  Homeless Education Assistance
  Maryland Skills2Compete
  Military Families
  Multicultural Education
  No Child Left Behind
  Parent Involvement Matters Award
  Race to the Top
  Residential Education Program
  Response to Intervention
  School / Community Nutrition
  School Wellness Policy
  STEM Education
  Teacher and Principal Evaluation
  Technology/Library Media
  Title I
  21st Century Learning Centers
Programs > Environmental Programs > General Information
General Information
The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) provides leadership and services to twenty-four school systems and serves over 865,000 students. Environmental education is a mandated PK-12 program for public schools systems in the State of Maryland. The program in each school system is aligned with MSDE Environmental Education standards, indicators and objectives, that are infused in the science, health, social studies, English language arts, mathematics, and fine and performing arts standards. MSDE collaborates with many State agencies and non-formal education providers to identify and implement meaningful environmental education experiences for students.

For example, The Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Educators (MAEOE), a statewide professional association of educators, higher education faculty, and resource professionals, provides a certification program in environmental education for teachers and hosts an annual professional development conference. MAEOE also sponsors the Green Schools Program, which, upon successful completion of a comprehensive application procedure, awards a Green Schools flag to schools meeting requirements in curriculum and instruction, best management practices and community partnerships.

Funding to support environmental education programs and activities in classrooms and schools, both at State and local levels, is provided through grants from the Chesapeake Bay Trust, Department of Natural Resources, EPA, and NOAA.

Contact Information
Gary Hedges, Science Specialist
Division of Instruction
Maryland State Department of Education
200 West Baltimore Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone:  410-767-0330
Fax:  410-333-1146
Email:  ghedges@msde.state.md.us
MSDE Privacy Statement Disclaimer  | Copyright © 2003 MSDE


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Crusaders defeat Tomahawks | SLIDESHOW

MARYSVILLE — The Tomahawks played a solid game at the 3A state quarterfinals on Saturday, Nov. 17, but were ultimately outplayed by the Eastside Catholic Crusaders, who finished the game with a 65-34 victory.

M-P’s running back Austin Joyner scored the first touchdown of the night on a 72-yard run, and for a brief moment the Tomahawks were in the lead.

Eastside Catholic quickly battled back with two more touchdowns to give them the lead 14-7. Before the end of the first half M-P’s Deion Stell scored on a 10-yard run, bringing the score to 14-13 going into the second quarter. The Tommies had a chance at that point but six Crusader touchdowns and two quarters later, the Crusaders held a solid lead of 52-13 going into the fourth quarter that was simply impossible to rally back from.

The Tomahawks didn’t stop trying though, and M-P’s Kacey Walker scored a touchdown two-minutes into the fourth quarter, while Kyle Nobach and Hunter Trueax scored touchdowns on 68-yard and 43-yard passes, respectively, from quarterback Jake Luton with less than four minutes on the clock. The game ended with a final score of 65-34, and so did the Tomahawks’ hopes of making it to the state semifinals or further.

“We had a nice run here in the playoffs,” said head coach Brandon Carson. “This is a special group of seniors and a special group of players. They are  a close knit group and it’s sure been fun to coach them. I know it’s going to hurt now, but I think that when we look back on this season later we’ll be proud of it.”

Carson commended Joyner and Luton on playing a great game, as well as being players to watch for next year.

“Jake Luton, Austin Joyner, Deion Stell, Hunter Trueax, Nic Alonso, I mean there are so many players coming back next year, we’re looking forward to it,” he said.

Luton was disappointed to end the game with a loss, but is already looking forward to next year.

“This game was tough, but I wouldn’t have done it with a different group of guys,” he said. “The season was great, it’s tough to see it end. But we’ve got to get ready for next year and it starts now.”

We encourage an open exchange of ideas on this story's topic, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. Personal attacks, inappropriate language, and off-topic comments may be removed, and comment privileges revoked, per our Terms of Use. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.

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text:
Buck Trent

RESULTS [51 .. 101]
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Jump to: navigation, search
Buck Trent
Birth name Charles Wilburn Trent
Origin Spartanburg, South Carolina
Genres Country music
Occupation(s) Instrumentalist
Instruments Banjo, dobro, steel guitar, mandolin, electric bass, guitar
Years active 1948–present
Associated acts Roy Clark, Porter Wagoner, Bill Carlisle, Dolly Parton
Website [1]

Charles Wilburn "Buck" Trent (born February 17, 1938) is an American country music instrumentalist currently performing in Branson, Missouri. He invented the electric banjo and also plays the five-string banjo, dobro, steel guitar, mandolin, electric bass and guitar.

Born and raised in Spartanburg, South Carolina, Buck started performing on WORD (AM) Radio at the age of 10. He traveled to California and Texas, finally arriving in Nashville in 1959 where he joined the Bill Carlisle Show and first appeared on the Grand Ole Opry. He was a member of Bill Monroe's Bluegrass Boys from 1960-1961, Porter Wagoner's "Wagon Masters" from 1962 to 1973, and also appeared on the Roy Clark Show and Hee Haw. He played lead guitar on Dolly Parton's "I Will Always Love You" and "Jolene". In 2012 Buck was featured on two songs on Marty Stuart's album, "Nashville, Vol. 1: Tear the Woodpile Down".

Over his long history, Buck has received many awards and nominations. He was twice named the Country Music Association Instrumentalist of the Year (1975, 1976) and he was twice the No. 1 Instrumentalist of the Year for the Music City Awards. Included in his nominations are the 1976 No. 1 Instrumentalist of the Year for Record World, 1972 through 1981 No. 1 Instrumentalist for the Music City News Awards and in 1979–1981 Instrumental Group of the Year (with Wendy Holcomb in the Bluegrass category) for the Music City News Awards.

In addition to "The Porter Wagoner Show" and "Hee Haw", other television credits for Buck Trent include "The Marty Stuart Show", "Country's Family Reunion" on RFD-TV, "Mike Douglas Show", "The Tonight Show", "Nashville on the Road", "Tommy Hunter Show", "Dinah!", "Command Performance", "Music City Tonight", and "Nashville Now".

Buck's performing career also includes many touring shows, in particular he toured the U.S.S.R. with Roy Clark in 1976. This was the first country music act to tour Soviet Russia. In the early 80's while on tour with the "Porter Wagoner Show", Buck came to Branson, Missouri and performed at the Baldknobber's Jamboree Theatre. Several years later he opened for Mickey Gilley at the Mickey Gilley Theatre in Branson, Missouri and then in 1990 became he became the first national act to open a live music show in Branson performed in the morning. Buck's current morning show in Branson, Missouri is called "Buck Trent Country Music Show" and is performed at RFD-TV The Theatre.

  • Bionic Banjo, 1976

External links[edit]

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text:
To view a PDF version of this letter, please click here pdf format of Letter_to_Sec_Duncan_re_IG_Alert_Memo.pdf
file size 3MB .

October 20, 2009

The Honorable Arne Duncan

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, DC 20202

Dear Secretary Duncan,

I am writing to respond to some of the assertions found in the Alert Memorandum of September 30, 2009 issued by the U.S. Department of Education's Office of the Inspector General, entitled "Potential Consequences of the Maintenance of Effort Requirements under the ARRA State Fiscal Stabilization Fund", and to express my deep concern regarding the process by which the alert was researched, developed and disseminated.

We feel strongly that we have complied with both the letter and spirit of the law as written, and are frustrated to find that a report has been written in which we were offered no opportunity for participation or rebuttal. These funds were intended to be used and were in fact used to save jobs in the field of education. By saving jobs, we prevented the erosion of gains made in education reform during the past decade and more. Thus, we fulfilled the dual intent of the law: save jobs and protect reforms.

We are deeply concerned as well that the method by which this report was disseminated has created much confusion in the media and education field about the intent and language of the law, and allowed the spread of misinformation about the Commonwealth's actions which may do damage to the reforms we have been jointly and diligently pursuing over the last year. As will be shown below, the spending cuts referenced in the memo were made in response to a dire financial situation, and not in response to ARRA or the MOE waiver requirements. They were fairly determined by Governor Patrick in a manner that protected education as a sector compared with much of state government, and were crafted so that cuts would be balanced in our overall strategy with prudent use of reserves and one-time revenues like ARRA. While we originally hoped to use the money to achieve more reforms, the rapidly deteriorating economy made that a less viable strategy, especially because the ARRA does not authorize us to instruct districts as to how to spend the funds. While we are still optimistic that many districts will find ways to make one-time investments that include capacity-building, we would make the argument that using SFSF funds to fill funding gaps was, and is, one of the key goals of ARRA, and that, by using the fiscal stabilization funds to stabilize local district spending, we have laid the groundwork on which Race to the Top and other more reform-focused funding streams may now build in ways that reduce the achievement gap. We would argue that that was an anticipated goal of ARRA and a legitimate use of the funds, and would strongly urge that states which found it necessary, through no fault of their own, to prevent reductions in education spending should not be penalized for the severity of their recessions by being denied access to future funding opportunities.

Until this moment, all of our contacts, both with your agency and with other federal departments such as the GAO, have been professional, constructive, and collaborative. That is why it was such an unpleasant surprise to hear of this memorandum only through a press inquiry to Governor Patrick's office. To the best of our knowledge, no one in the US ED Office of the Inspector General contacted our office either to make informational inquiries or to ask us our reasoning behind the difficult choices we have made over this past year. This is especially frustrating as a portion of the memorandum includes implications about our motivation and intent that are, quite simply, incorrect. We were especially concerned that the memorandum's section on Massachusetts implies that the Governor only chose to cut the state's K-12 education funding ("Chapter 70") due to the availability of ARRA funds. Additionally, we were puzzled by the unwillingness to research our situation more deeply, as we have been completely forthcoming in response to all inquiries and follow-up questions from US ED; indeed, we have eagerly sought further guidance and assistance from your staff on several occasions, knowing that the SFSF was a new grant program and a "work-in-progress" on which we would need to work in close collaboration with your staff in order to ensure that we used the funds in a way that met the expectations of Congress and US ED while also addressing an unprecedented fiscal crisis in the education sector.

We remain committed to full transparency in all of our communication with you and the public about this important program, and, towards that end, offer the following context and background for all of our decisions in FY09. First, while it is true that two separate reductions were made to the FY09 budget for public institutions of higher learning, as well as a reduction to the fourth quarter payment to local educational agencies under the Chapter 70 program by which we distribute aid to school districts, all of these reductions took place in the context of a rapidly deteriorating revenue picture. The first reduction took place in the late fall of 2008, after the Secretary of Administration and Finance, pursuant to her statutory duties and obligations, certified that revenue collections were far below the benchmarks of the consensus revenue estimate on which the FY09 budget was based. Subsequently, Governor Patrick, pursuant to his statutory responsibilities to maintain a balanced budget, used his authority to reduce expenditures in all line items under the control of the executive branch, and, within those "9C cuts", so-called, was the first round of reductions to IHEs. By the end of December, revenues had again plummeted to the point that a second revision to the consensus revenue estimate was needed, along with a second round of 9C reductions to IHEs. It is important to note that both rounds of 9Cs to IHEs occurred before the passage of ARRA, and that therefore nothing in ARRA or in subsequent federal guidance could possibly have contributed to these decisions.

It is true that, in those first two rounds of reductions, no cuts were made to the Chapter 70 program. First and foremost, this was due to Governor Patrick's strong advocacy and belief that such reductions should only be considered when all other avenues had failed. By January, it was becoming clearer that such a reduction might be needed as a last resort, although we were able to make sufficient reductions at that time to address the expected shortfall. It is worth noting here that the statutory powers allowing the Governor to unilaterally reduce spending in certain items does not apply to independent state authorities, separate constitutional officers, the legislature's accounts, or local aid (of which Chapter 70 is one account), unless expressly permitted by the legislature. The Governor requested and received such permission from the legislature in January. As noted, he did not need to use it at that time to reduce local aid, but, in fact, could not have reduced local aid as a matter of law at any earlier time.

The final piece of relevant chronology occurred at the end of the third quarter, when it again became apparent that revenues were continuing to come in below the (now twice reduced) benchmark, and that they were continuing their nosedive throughout April. When revenue reductions continue to be experienced that late in a fiscal year, the Commonwealth's options are sharply limited. Almost all discretionary grants funding has been distributed. Reductions in FTE levels can be, and were, made, but, with more than three quarters of the salary paid out, limited savings can be found in this way. We can draw further from the state's "Rainy Day Fund", but in this case we had already made this fund a part of every solution we proposed and we had seen a reduction in the fund of almost $1.4B, from $2.1B at the start of the fiscal year to almost $766M at its end. (We anticipate a further drop in this fund at the end of FY10 to approximately $571M.) Further reductions in this account would have been fiscally foolhardy and would likely have triggered negative responses from the public, the business community, and the bond rating agencies alike.

At that time of the fiscal year, the only significant amount of money available for reduction is the fourth quarter local aid payment, made at the end of June. When revenues collapse as quickly as they did in this instance, reductions in local aid, including Chapter 70, simply must be part of the solution, and I can assure you that they would have been part of the solution even in the absence of ARRA's passage. While this cut, unlike the first two, did, in fact, occur after ARRA was passed, it did not occur because ARRA was passed, nor was it an attempt to manipulate the MOE waiver provision, as appears to be alleged in the Alert Memorandum. It was a fiscally responsible action taken in response to an unprecedented fiscal collapse.

It is also worth noting that all three of the reductions above were clearly placed on our initial application, which we revised in response to your staff's constructive recommendations, and which was subsequently approved. At no point in that process were we told of any US ED concerns nor were we given any indication that our reductions might be problematic. We were entirely forthcoming about the reductions we had made, about the MOE waiver we intended to seek for FY10, and about the depth of the revenue loss we were experiencing. It is disheartening to read a report that suggests anything was done inappropriately when no such guidance was ever given to us.

I am aware that the Alert Memorandum does not allege any wrong-doing, nor claim that law was not followed. I am also aware that, wherever possible, the report acknowledged that the provisions of ARRA "may" or "might" be leading to reductions in expenditure. However, that careful language was undermined by incautious assumptions about our intentions, as well as by a public release that was not similarly precise, and that left a widespread impression that Massachusetts had not complied with the law, either in its letter or in its intent. That impression is both unfair to my office, and potentially injurious to the reform efforts you and I both agree are long overdue. A fairer process would have allowed earlier feedback from the states being reviewed, and some advance notice of the public release of the report. It would also have avoided attributing improper intent where none existed.

Let me also state that I continue to share your commitment to reform, and continue to believe that reducing the achievement gap is at the core of those reforms. I look forward to continuing our joint partnership towards that end. I would be remiss not to share with you, however, my deep concern about any retroactive attempts to penalize states for necessary and unavoidable reductions driven by economic collapse. We, like you, had hoped to be more aggressive in leveraging the SFSF funds for reform. Indeed, early in the process, Mitchell Chester, Commissioner of our state's Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, instructed districts to use half the SFSF amount for restoration and half for innovation. Districts quickly and correctly pointed out that we had no legal authority to compel that, and, as our crisis worsened, we realized that many districts would not be able to achieve such a perfect split between fund usage. We have continued, however, to urge districts to find a balance that is right for them between the competing needs of ARRA, in particular between the need to retain staff and fill funding holes, and the need to find one-time uses of the funds that will minimize the impact of the funding cliff and be focused on capacity-building. Given the number and diversity of our districts, the statutory limitations on our capacity to compel any particular choices by districts, and the many types of funding streams districts are receiving (ARRA SFSF, ARRA Title I, ARRA IDEA, traditional Title I, traditional IDEA, etc.), we can't guarantee that those projects with reform impacts will always be funded with SFSF dollars.

Our larger concern, though, is with the premise that these funds are primarily about increasing education aid rather than restoring reductions. This approach seems inconsistent with the history of the SFSF appropriation as we recall it, and may represent an attempt to "over leverage" the funds for reform that will prevent the SFSF funds from being utilized according to their original intent and do harm to larger reform efforts. As you know, Governor Patrick was at the forefront of advocacy efforts on behalf of creating the SFSF, and I and my staff were proud to be part of that effort. During that discussion, however, it was clear at all times that states were making, and would need to continue making, significant reductions in their expenditures, including their expenditures to schools, and that the SFSF would be, to a considerable extent, used to plug those holes, and thus to stabilize school funding to lay the groundwork for the reforms that would come after (e.g., Race to the Top). I know that the provision allowing states to use SFSF funds to implement their funding formulas provides some possibility for increase rather than merely filling holes, and, indeed, it is our current intention to use Phase II SFSF funds, upon receipt, to provide such increases to LEAs in FY10 where needed to keep the LEAs at foundation levels of spending. However, the other two primary uses of the SFSF funds are entirely about filling funding gaps and the mandatory restoration of unavoidable cuts. In that context, it is unsettling to read in the OIG Alert that using the money to restore spending levels could be treated as a violation of the spirit of the law; in the context of continued economic challenge, it seems unfair to establish a rule that effectively prohibits any reduction in state education spending subsequent to ARRA's passage by penalizing such reductions in further ARRA grant rounds, and I would urge you not to do so.

In particular, I would express my concern over any requirement tying the awarding of Race to the Top funds, or other reform-oriented funds, to data about state spending reductions between FY08 and FY09. In the case of Massachusetts, we experienced a revenue decline of 12.5% in that year, so it would be unusual if spending reductions did not happen in all sectors. I can say, without hesitation, that education as a sector was privileged during that time in Massachusetts and was subject to far fewer reductions than other agencies and sectors. Any expectation that we would be held completely harmless would not only be unrealistic on my part, but would be counter-productive to the children whose needs we are trying to serve. It has been a hallmark of this Governor's approach, and mine as Secretary, to see education reform as more holistic than previously viewed. Insisting on level-funding while shifting more cuts to health and human services or public safety or environmental agencies, would lead to more students entering school hungry, or with unresolved family issues, or untreated mental illness, or no chance at summer jobs, or less protection from gangs and their recruitment. A federal policy that requires states to avoid any reductions to education accounts will inevitably have unintended consequences that keep us just as far from our reform goals as before.

I therefore strongly urge you to continue to allow the SFSF funds to function primarily as a form of budgetary stabilization for states, cities, towns, and school districts which are trying to manage through the overwhelming chaos of this fiscal crisis, and allow our mutual reform hopes and expectations to be driven by the considerable amount of funding that remains to be distributed, especially Race to the Top. I also urge you to distribute the reform-oriented funds not solely to those lucky enough to have avoided reductions, but to those who have made necessary but painful cuts, and are still committed to reforms that help every child succeed.

Please feel free to contact me should you wish to discuss this further. I look forward to our continued collaboration.

Paul Reville

Secretary of Education

Commonwealth of Massachusetts


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Blandford Fair honors traditions

blandford.jpgThe annual Bldford fair gets underway on Friday.

Maintaining traditions are an important way to remain connected to the past, and fairs such as this weekend’s 145th Annual Blandford Fair is keeping the traditions of agriculture and good old family fun alive.

Bruce Wyman, vice president of the Union Agricultural and Horticultural Society – organizers of the annual fair which opens its gates to visitors at 3 p.m. tomorrow for four days – attributes the longevity of the Blandford Fair not only to its tradition-based heritage, but to its family-style entertainment.

“There is something for everyone from kids to senior citizens. We have a huge following for our horse, oxen and pony draws, and someone may come to the fair and just sit and watch them all day long. We have a tremendous two-day horse show and are anticipating at least 100 horses on Saturday and Sunday, and that is the draw for some fairgoers. And for young visitors, it’s often the rides and games,” he said.

And, Wyman said you can’t forget the roots of most fairs today which hark back to the heyday of farming.

“One of the fundamental reasons for fairs like ours was the competition among farmers and people growing crops and raising animals, and that is still the reason for our fair today,” said Wyman.

Also, beyond the fruits and vegetables and many animal competitions, Wyman said they have one of the largest truck pulls in the area and a very popular antique tractor pulling contest.

“We also have the largest and most well-attended fiddle contests in western Massachusetts that will be held on Saturday, Stoney Roberts Demolition Derby on Monday, and new this year, Grannies Racing Pigs,” said Wyman.

Highlights of this year’s musical entertainment include performances by the Dan Kane Singers, as well as Patrick Tobin’s popular “Tribute to Frank Sinatra” and Donna Lee’s equally popular “Tribute to Patsy Cline.” Other performers include Cory & the Knightsmen, Boot Hill Band, Tom Ingram Band, and the Melha Shrine Military Band, as well as Joyce Platt’s annual organ concert.

For the kids, there will be plenty of old-fashioned games to keep them entertained, a barnyard animal exhibit and pony rides, kiddy pedal tractor pull, as well as plenty of laughs and magic provided by clowns.

And, the Blandford Fair also wears a patriotic hat every year with the National Anthem being performed and sung each day along with the presentation of colors.

While the numbers of those attending the Blandford Fair from year to year may vary due to weather and other circumstances, such as the economy, Wyman said the interest in fairs is not waning.

“People are still coming to our fair in increasing numbers. And, one of the fun things for those of us involved in the Blandford Fair is watching families coming year after year….seeing kids coming back who were once infants and who are now brining their own families,” said Wyman.

For hours and admission information visit


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Patrick Johnson | By Patrick Johnson | The Republican
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on December 17, 2010 at 7:27 PM, updated October 14, 2011 at 3:23 AM

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – A Springfield man and woman were indicted by a federal grand jury for their part in a Woosocket, R.I. robbery that ended with the shooting death of a gas station manager.

Jose A. Santiago, 33, and Kelley M. Lajoie, 32, each of Springfield, and Jason W. Pleau, 33, of Providence, R.I.. were each indicted Tuesday in connection with the Sept. 20 shooting death of David D. Main of Woonsocket, R.I.

If convicted, they could be sentenced to death.

Main, the owner of a Shell gas station, was chased down and then shot to death at close range outside a Woonsocket bank where he was walking to deposit his station receipts.

The indictment charges the three with one count each of Hobbs Act conspiracy to commit robbery affecting commerce; Hobbs Act robbery affecting commerce; and using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, causing the death of another, such killing constituting murder.

The Hobbs Act is a federal law outlawing robberies or extortion that affects interstate or foreign commerce. The conspiracy and robbery charges are punishable by maximum sentences of 20 years in prison. Use of a firearm during a violent crime and causing death is punishable by life in prison or capital punishment.


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View Full Version : Quick Steel

07-06-2007, 09:30 AM
A few weeks ago while driving, I missed a "DIP" sign in the road. Made me feel like a dip, I bottomed the car out and cracked the oil pan. I did not know it at the time. I was on my way to practice at a local park.
The car sat for about two hours at the park and bled dry.
The mechanic was not far away, maybe 5-10 miles. I thought I would give the quick steel a try. I also bought 4 gallons of oil -- just incase.
The quick steel is an epoxy putty that cures within 5 mins. I cleaned the oil off the pan and patched the whole area. It was cracked right above the drain plug.
I did not loose one drop of oil on the way. I was really impressed. Gonna keep some in all the vehicles -- just incase.
I have always used JB Weld but it needs to cure over night. I have never had much luck with the quick JB Weld. The Quick Steel works great.

I could not find a website for QS but found this...
I bought it at AutoZone

07-06-2007, 12:21 PM
Bummer on the crack. Glad it worked out and thanks for the info!


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View Full Version : Tower Gasget Issues AGAIN!

01-25-2008, 04:23 PM
First of all I must say I love my 06 x star. That said, after attending the 08 Portland Ore. boat show I do have some thoughts. I have experienced a real problem with the tower gasgets on my 06 x star. I observed at the boat show that their is a new gasget system being used. At first I though "finally MC has resolved the problem. After inspected the gasgets on the new boats I found a familiar issue. The stren side of the front of the tower arms still seem as if the gasgets don't stay lined up correctly. This will certainly cause considerable vibration leading to many potential problems. MC needs to fugure out a way to secure the stern of the front tower arms. Take a look and let me know if anyone has made the same observation. Thanks BB

01-25-2008, 04:34 PM
Post a pic... they are worth 1,000 words!

01-25-2008, 04:36 PM
:confused: :popcorn: :popcorn:

01-25-2008, 05:55 PM
My gasket is squeezing out of place too, need to loosen tower bolts and put it in place with maybe some kind of adhesive to help hold it. Anyone have a suggestion of what to use?

01-25-2008, 06:36 PM
:confused: :popcorn: :popcorn:

Knox, don't make me laugh any more than I already am!:rolleyes:


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Thanks for the info, cans are still available.
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Thread: The Killing
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Old 05-23-2011, 07:34 AM
Bonnie Bonnie is offline
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My sister has been watching this; I didn't know anything about it until she mentioned it last Sunday and then I saw this thread. I just caught last week's episode they replayed this morning and then watched tonight's episode. I need to go to the link and watch the first episodes leading up to tonight, but I'm definitely hooked.

I don't want to spoil anything for anyone who didn't see tonight's episode; I'll just say it leaves you with this sick, awful "Oh no!" realization...

I can't wait for next week's episode!
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Thread: BEAST Pics
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Old 09-05-2008, 05:24 PM   #6
Boots R
Boots, not boost
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Originally Posted by T.Dot_E30 View Post
what does the plate mean, can't figure it out,
MOVE OVER in a rearview mirror.
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In recent years, outbreaks of bird flu have occurred in Asia, Africa and parts of Europe. Most people who have developed symptoms of bird flu have had close contact with sick birds. In a few cases, bird flu has passed from one person to another.

Health officials worry that a global outbreak could occur if a bird flu virus mutates into a form that transmits more easily from person to person. Researchers are working on vaccines to help protect people from bird flu.

Signs and symptoms of bird flu may begin within two to eight days of infection, depending on the type. In most cases, they resemble those of conventional influenza, including:

  • Cough
  • Fever
  • Sore throat
  • Muscle aches
  • Headache
  • Shortness of breath

Some people also experience nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. And in a few cases, a mild eye infection (conjunctivitis) is the only indication of the disease.

When to see a doctor

See your doctor immediately if you develop a fever, cough and body aches and have recently traveled to a part of the world where bird flu occurs. Be sure to let your doctor know if you visited any farms or open-air markets.

Bird flu occurs naturally in wild waterfowl and can spread into domestic poultry, such as chickens, turkeys, ducks and geese. The disease is transmitted via contact with an infected bird's feces, or secretions from its nose, mouth or eyes.

Open-air markets, where eggs and birds are sold in crowded and unsanitary conditions, are hotbeds of infection and can spread the disease into the wider community.

Undercooked poultry meat or eggs from infected birds can transmit bird flu. Poultry meat is safe to eat if it's been cooked to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C). Eggs should be cooked until the yolks and whites are firm.

The greatest risk factor for bird flu seems to be contact with sick birds or with surfaces contaminated by their feathers, saliva or droppings. In very few instances, bird flu has been transmitted from one human to another. But unless the virus begins to spread more easily among people, infected birds present the greatest hazard.

The pattern of human transmission remains mysterious. People of all ages have contracted bird flu, though the average age of people affected seems to depend on the type of bird flu. The average age of those affected by H7N9 was 62, while the average age of those with H5N1 was only 26.

Recent research suggests that females may be at higher risk of bird flu and its complications. However, it's not clear exactly why that might be so.

People with bird flu may develop life-threatening complications, including:

  • Pneumonia
  • Collapsed lung
  • Respiratory failure
  • Kidney dysfunction
  • Heart problems

Although bird flu may kill more than half the people it infects, the number of fatalities is still low because so few people have had bird flu. Fewer than 500 bird flu deaths have been reported to the World Health Organization since 1997.

In contrast, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that seasonal influenza is responsible for thousands of deaths each year in the United States alone.

If you suspect that you have bird flu, you need to see your primary care doctor. Let people know you may have flu and ask for a surgical mask to wear during your visit. If you are very ill, you may need to be hospitalized.

What you can do

  • Symptom history. Write down any symptoms you've been experiencing and for how long.
  • Recent exposure to possible sources of infection. Be sure to describe any international trips, especially to areas where bird flu is prevalent.
  • Medical history. Make a list of your key medical information, including other conditions for which you're being treated and any medications, vitamins or supplements you're currently taking.
  • Questions to ask your doctor. Write down your questions in advance so that you can make the most of your time with your doctor.

For bird flu, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

  • What's the most likely cause of my symptoms?
  • Will I need any tests?
  • What's the best treatment approach? Are there any alternatives?
  • Will I need to take medicine?
  • What can I do at home to help ease my symptoms?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor will need to know certain details about your illness to make a diagnosis. Be prepared to answer questions such as:

  • When did you start feeling ill?
  • Have you had a fever? If so, how high has it gotten?
  • Have you had any close contact with birds recently?
  • Have you traveled abroad recently? If so, where did you go?

Laboratory tests

Samples of fluids from your nose or throat can be tested for evidence of bird flu virus. These samples must be taken within the first few days after symptoms appear.

Imaging tests

X-rays may be useful in assessing the condition of your lungs, which can help determine the proper diagnosis and the best treatment options for your signs and symptoms.

Many influenza viruses have become resistant to the effects of a category of antiviral drugs that includes amantadine and rimantadine (Flumadine). Health officials recommend the use of oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or, if oseltamivir can't be used, zanamivir (Relenza). These drugs must be taken within two days after the appearance of symptoms.

There is concern, however, that some types of bird flu may be developing resistance to oseltamivir. Chinese health officials have developed another type of flu medication that received accelerated approval from their government for the treatment of H7N9 bird flu.

Bird flu vaccine

The Food and Drug Administration has approved one vaccine to prevent infection with one strain of H5N1 bird flu virus. This vaccine isn't available to the public, but the U.S. government is stockpiling it and will distribute it in the event of an outbreak.

This vaccine could be used early in such an outbreak to provide limited protection until another vaccine — designed to protect against the specific form of the virus causing the outbreak — is developed and produced. Researchers continue to work on other types of bird flu vaccines.

Recommendations for travelers

If you're traveling to Southeast Asia or to any region with bird flu outbreaks, consider these public health recommendations:

  • Avoid domesticated birds. If possible, avoid rural areas, small farms and open-air markets.
  • Wash your hands. This is one of the simplest and best ways to prevent infections of all kinds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol when you travel.
  • Ask about a flu shot. Before traveling, ask your doctor about a flu shot. It won't protect you specifically from bird flu, but it may help reduce the risk of simultaneous infection with bird and human flu viruses.

Poultry and egg products

Because heat destroys avian viruses, cooked poultry isn't a health threat. Even so, it's best to take precautions when handling and preparing poultry, which may be contaminated with salmonella or other harmful bacteria.

  • Avoid cross-contamination. Use hot, soapy water to wash cutting boards, utensils and all surfaces that have come into contact with raw poultry.
  • Cook thoroughly. Cook chicken until the juices run clear, and it reaches a minimum internal temperature of 165 F (74 C).
  • Steer clear of raw eggs. Because eggshells are often contaminated with bird droppings, avoid foods containing raw or undercooked eggs.
Sept. 25, 2014


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Severe weather alert in Philadelphia and Delaware counties.
July 29

Mount Airy Casino Resort folds expansion plans

Mount Airy Casino Resort has put the brakes on its plans for a $60.1 million expansion and is trying to restructure its $380 million in debt, its state-appointed trustee Anthony F. Ceddia told the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board on Thursday.

The move halts the planned addition of 500 slot machines and 212 hotel rooms that was supposed to begin this year. It also has Ceddia looking to renegotiate the Monroe County resort's debt as its owner, Louis DeNaples, faces perjury charges.

Even as Ceddia gave his update, the board proposed new regulations that would allow it to more easily acquire the kind of FBI investigative files it never got before DeNaples was issued a gaming license.

''It's not financially feasible for Mount Airy to pursue [expansion],'' said Ceddia, the former Shippensburg University president appointed trustee after DeNaples was charged. ''It's clear that relief is necessary.''

DeNaples, a wealthy Scranton area businessman, was awarded a license for his $415 million casino in December 2006 while state police still were investigating whether he lied to gambling regulators about his ties to organized crime.

Dauphin County charged him in January with four counts of perjury, which set off a domino effect that started when the gaming board suspended his license, appointed Ceddia to take

control until the charges are resolved and ordered DeNaples to remove himself from all casino business.

Within days, Standard & Poor's lowered Mount Airy's junk bond status, saying DeNaples defaulted on his loans when his gaming license was suspended. The suspension triggered a ''technical default'' of loan terms. That's not a missed payment, but a breach of loan terms.

Ceddia outlined meetings he had this month with new Mount Airy Chief Executive Officer Joe D'Amato and creditors J.P. Morgan Chase and PNC Bank to restructure the resort's $380 million in debt.

He said that while the casino's revenues had fallen short of expectations since it opened in October 2007 in Paradise Township, they began to increase with a new marketing plan that brings in more tour bus traffic and with the arrival of better weather.

The restructuring is needed not only because Mount Airy's creditors claim it is in technical default, but because it has suspended the $60 million expansion that was ready to start. The expansion money was part of the $380 million debt package, and resort officials would like the debt reduced, said Mount Airy spokesman Pete Peterson.

A $25 million line of credit in the debt deal remains open to Mount Airy for expenses, but Peterson said J.P. Morgan Chase must now approve the use before the money is released.

Peterson said the resort remains financially secure.

''Mount Airy has decided to reassess its funding priorities,'' Peterson said. ''This doesn't mean expansion will never happen. It just means it won't happen now.''

The gaming board did a little restructuring of its own Thursday, proposing new regulations. One would require license applicants to file a Freedom of Information Act request for any law enforcement investigative files so those files can be turned over to the gaming board's Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement.

DeNaples had done that with FBI files on him, but did not turn them over to the board before he was charged with perjury. DeNaples has said he is innocent.

The board is scheduled to vote on the provision next month. It also is drafting a regulation that would give it the power to name a trustee to take over a casino to preserve its viability. Though the board did that with Ceddia, it wants the option in writing.

The board wants a regulation to keep gaming hearings for license applicants open to the public. Though applicants would have the right to request the hearings be closed for certain issues, the board does not want the hearings to be automatically closed the way they were in fall 2006.

And the changes would not stop there.

''We will also discuss giving the board the power to issue investigative subpoenas and the power to compel testimony in exchange for limited immunity,'' said gaming board Chairwoman Mary DiGiacomo Colins.

Colins said the board will work closely with a bipartisan gaming task force appointed by state Sen. Jane Earll, R-Erie. But despite the proposed changes, Colins stopped well short of saying the board erred in investigating DeNaples.

''Not only has the board done a complete and thorough job in the past, but it is our intention to do an even better job in the future,'' she said.

Copyright © 2015, The Morning Call
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Severe weather alert in Philadelphia and Delaware counties.
July 29

Bad news for Daniel when 'Revenge' returns April 18

Finally, the most addictive show of the 2011-12 season, "Revenge," returns with a new episode this week. I haven't seen the episode, but ABC has circulated several clips that drop some big clues about "Doubt," which airs at 9 p.m. April 18.

Daniel's in a bad way as he sits in Riker's Island prison awaiting trial for bat-shit crazy Tyler's murder.

"I don't want to draw any more attention to myself," he tells Emily (Emily VanCamp) during a sadly non- conjugal visit. But don’t fear, Shirtless man of the Week fans. We still get to see Josh Bowman in only a towel when Daniel grabs a shower before getting the crap beat out of him by fellow prisoners. Apparently they don’t like pretty rich boys.

Meanwhile, back at the Hamptons mansion, the Graysons are doing everything they can to help get Daniel out—and to find screwy Tyler’s real killer.

Daniel's mom, Victoria (Madeleine Stowe), is going a little nutty herself as she harasses daughter Charlotte (Christa B. Allen) and Declan (Connor Paolo) in hopes they can identify the mystery man in the hoodie they saw on the beach the night of mad Tyler’s death.

The final drawing of the suspect looks an awful lot like Jack Porter (Nick Wechsler)—thanks Ashley (Ashley Madekwe) for pointing that out—and Emily isn’t liking that her old love might be accused of the murder.

Jack, by the way, is off having his own meltdown in the presence of Nolan (Gabriel Mann), who I bet just wants to cuddle his buddy to make him feel better. (Who wouldn’t!?)

Finally, did Queen V find another lover? Nope, her old flame Dominick Wright (James Purefoy) makes a surprise visit to the Hamptons.

There’s more to see in the clips above, but those are the threads that caught my eye. And remember, Wechsler already has been a Shirtless Man of the Week.

Copyright © 2015, The Morning Call
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August 19, 2011

Fort Benning commanders looking to cut costs

A week after a Fort Benning official reduced the projected impact from the Base Realignment and Closure process and acknowledged a 15 percent cut in its workforce on post, U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop Jr. said all post commanders have been directed to study their operations to reduce costs.

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News Archive 01/14/14

Major exhibition premieres at McDaniel highlighting illustrations from children’s picture books

“Beyond Words: The Artistry of Illustrated Children’s Books,” a major exhibition highlighting illustrations from children’s picture books, premieres at McDaniel College Jan. 27 through March 6 in the Rice Gallery in Peterson… Full Story

The Hill magazine shines again

The Hill magazine was recognized with a silver medal for staff writing by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) in the District II 2014 Accolades program. This is the sixth consecutive year the magazine has been… Full Story

Love This Blog for Romance Writers

Eight authors in four states and on three continents from the inaugural class of McDaniel’s Romance Writing Program have launched a blog about what it takes to make a great story. Full Story

Sports Wrap 1-14-14

Men’s basketball and men’s and women’s swimming begin 2014 with wins over Haverford and Salisbury. Full Story

McDaniel names Gregory Dumont new Chief Information Officer

Gregory L. Dumont will join McDaniel College as its new Chief Information Officer (CIO) effective Jan. 27. Since 2007, Dumont has served as associate director of Information Technology at Central Michigan University, where he worked closely… Full Story

Top Stories of 2013

Erich Spioch.
First featured over the holidays, here are the Communications and Marketing staff’s top story picks for 2013 – when McDaniel College marked another extraordinary year. Full Story

Service learning connects students to ideas of religious movement leaders

Not content pulling weeds, sophomore Katarina Winhauer successfully applied for a grant while volunteering with Human Services Program’s community garden in nearby Dutterer Park.
During the fall semester, students in the Religious Studies course, “Martin and Malcolm,” used service learning to appreciate leaders of the past by making an impact in the present. Full Story

‘Fearless and Bold’ author takes students on Jan Term trip through college history

Jim Lightner
Where on campus is the portrait of Blanche Ward, wife of third president Albert Norman Ward? Who founded the college – and why was it named Western Maryland? Where is the Elderdice Theatre, and for whom is it named? Full Story

Jan Term course uses presidential scandal as a gateway to historical inquiry

Richard Nixon
Watergate, Iran-Contra and the Clinton-Lewinsky affair are but a few of the incidents students will explore in Bryn Upton’s class, “Presidential Scandals.” Full Story

CEO’s Jan Term class guides students’ quest for competitive edge

Jed Barnes ’11 speaking to class.
The Center for Experience and Opportunity’s (CEO) director Julia Jasken knows that there’s nothing accidental about winning a Rhodes, Fulbright or other prestigious scholarship. Full Story

Study tours and novel topics highlight Jan Term 2014

McDaniel’s three-week Jan Term 2014 features a selection of uncommon courses on campus and study tours to stops around the globe including England, Italy, France, Belize, China, Bermuda, Wales and more. Full Story


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Laptops/Notebooks with Linux Preinstalled

Many, many people have asked me where I bought my linux laptop, or where they can buy one for use with linux. Enough people that I'm writing this web page so that it might be of use to others.

I extensively researched the companies that will sell laptops with no-OS or Linux preinstalled. This information is distressingly difficult to find, so I present a list below. I encourage you all to vote with your dollar and do not send a single penny to the monopoly in Redmond. If you want a linux laptop, pay for a linux laptop or there will be nobody selling them. The "Windows refund" efforts have largely failed, so it's best not to send any money to Redmond in the first place.

About the laptop market

There are two kinds of companies with respect to manufacturing laptops. Original Design Manufacturers (ODM's) actually manufacture the hardware, which they then sell to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM's) that then install a CPU, RAM, hard drive, and software. Some major ODM's are Asus, Clevo, Compal, FIC, Mitac, Quanta, Uniwill, and Wistron. Major OEM's are the ones you're probably familiar with: Compaq, Dell, Gateway, HP, IBM, Sony, and Toshiba. TuxMobil has a more complete table of some of these manufacturing relationships.

There are vendors out there that will sell you a branded OEM laptop with linux on it. Since none of the major OEM's sell linux preinstalled on laptops at this time, this means that any vendor claiming to sell an OEM laptop with linux on it paid for windows and removed it (now with the exception of Dell, see below). I think this is a deceptive practice so I do not list such vendors below. Vote with your dollar folks. Also if you are interested in a laptop from a major OEM, call them up and ask for linux. If we make enough noise, eventually even the big guys will sell linux too (IBM and Dell tried in the past but sales were low).

You should realize that most of these companies below purchase the hardware from these ODM's just like the big name OEM's. So when you find some no-name laptop, it is usually equivalent to some branded laptop that never touched the hands of one of the major OEM's. (And figuring out exactly *which* brand-name laptop it is equivalent to can be extremely difficult) Mine for instance goes by the names Compal CL00, ChemBook 3020, and Toshiba 3000-S304.  Some of the below claim to manufacture their own notebooks, but what this means is that they buy them from an ODM and put in a hard drive/CPU/RAM, which is why you will find identical looking cases at several of these vendors.

Lastly I encourage people to post their experiences to Reseller Ratings or a similar company/product ranking site, so that we can all learn from your experience, and vendors are pressured economically into being nice to their customers.

Update: TuxMobil now has a more complete list than me (and so does LXer) which you should look at. (But beware many vendors in their lists will pay for windows and remove it -- the vendors below definitely do not.)

Linux-preinstalled laptops

Most (all?) of the vendors that preinstall linux offer some form of software and hardware support. As always, check the individual vendor's warranty and support policies to see if they meet your needs before buying.

  1. Affordy TITAN (Israel)
  2. AVA Direct (Redhat, Ubuntu)
  3. Dell (Ubuntu, FreeDOS) (Reseller Ratings)
  4. Eight Virtues (Most major linux distros)
  5. eRacks (HP Reseller Ratings) (Compaq Reseller Ratings) (SUSE 9.1)
  6. ixsoft (Germany)
  7. Los Alamos Computers (Reseller Ratings)
  8. Linux Certified, Inc (also sells refurbished)
  9. The Linux Emporium (UK)
  10. The Linux Laptop Company (Ubuntu) (Sells Dell models and they claim to have not paid for Windows on them)
  11. Mingos (Dutch, Ubuntu)
  12. MGE PC Online (Fedora Core 6, RHEL, Suse 10)
  13. NextCom (Intel and SPARC laptops!)
  14. Puget Custom Computers (US, Ubuntu 7.04) (Reseller Ratings)
  15. R3 Technologies
  16. Sub (Canada)
  17. System 76 (US & Canada) (Ubuntu)
  18. XePhi Computers (Ubuntu, Kubuntu) (Europe)
  19. zareason (Ubuntu, Kubuntu)

No-OS Laptops

Purchasing a no-OS laptop can be somewhat treacherous. Since there is no software, there is no reliable way for the vendor to identify hardware problems. Some tech support requests are hardware problems, others are software problems, and others are user error. When some customers use Debian, others Red Hat, others XBSD, you can see tracking down problems would be extremely difficult. If you purchase a no-os laptop, you should be capable of installing your favorite OS and performing basic tech support for yourself.

  1. abestpc
  2. Chem USA
  3. Mtech Laptops (Reseller Rating)
  4. Novatech (UK)
  5. PC's For Everyone
  6. Power Notebooks (Reseller Ratings) (Linux forum)
  7. Puget Systems
  8. Xtreme Notebooks(Reseller Ratings)
  9. Zepto International (European)

Other Resources

  1. Tuxmobil is probably the largest site about getting linux to work on your laptop.
  2. Sager laptops are pretty common among these vendors, and there is a linux forum for their laptops.
  3. See also this article on building a whitebox notebook (ASUS)
  4. Laptopical has several articles and reviews about linux laptops.
If you find any of the information above incorrect or out of date, please drop me a note (my email is bob at [domain name of this web page]).  I will also happily add new linux vendors to the list.  :)

Last updated: June 10, 2010


text:
MCM Electronics

White 5V 2A Power Supply By Distributed By MCM (2427498) MCM Part #28-19445

0 stars No reviews yet
Qty.Volume Price

Designed specifically for the Raspberry Pi, this power supply comes in a white color to change things up a little bit. Included are power plugs for most countries around the world

Specifications Top

5V 2A AC Switching Power Supply
  • Output voltage:5V DC
  • Amperage: 2000mA
  • Micro USB male connector
  • UL and CE approval
  • 52" cord length
  • Input: 100~240VAC, 50~60Hz

Part Numbers
MCM Part #:28-19445
Distributed By MCM Part #:2427498
Package Specifications & Dimensions
Weight:0.5 lbs.
RoHS Comp:Yes
Warranty:30 days
Need to Return?
Length:4.25 in.
Width:2.5 in.
Height:3.5 in.
Shipping Information
Extra Shipping Charge:No
Drop Ship:No
Catalog Pages

Product Reviews Top


text:
MCM Electronics

311 Bench Clamp Base Mount By Panavise (311) MCM Part #106-005

0 stars No reviews yet

•The 311 bench clamp base mount for the 300 standard or 305 low profile base, clamps to the edge of any work bench or table up to 31/2" thick •Three screws are included for mounting a base to the bench clamp

Specifications Top

Part Numbers
MCM Part #:106-005
Panavise Part #:311
Package Specifications & Dimensions
Weight:2.712 lbs.
Warranty:90 days
Need to Return?
Length:7.75 in.
Width:5.75 in.
Height:4.5 in.
Shipping Information
Extra Shipping Charge:No
Drop Ship:No
Catalog Pages
MCM Cat 57, Page 1095
MCM Cat 56, Page 1012
View in Catalog

Product Reviews Top


text:
London (28th July 2009)– Square Enix Europe, the business unit integrating sales and marketing forces of Square Enix Ltd. (Square Enix) and Eidos Interactive (Eidos), announced today its exciting line-up of combined titles which will be on show at GamesCom 2009, Cologne, August 19th– 23rd.

GamesCom 2009 will mark the first time Square Enix and Eidos titles will be showcased together; highlighting the growing diversity of the expanding global entertainment company. This year’s stand features games developed from around the world offering highly-anticipated experiences across genres and platforms.

“We are delighted to be a part of GamesCom 2009. As the largest European games show it is the perfect event for our newly created European organisation to showcase the combined strength of our product line up for the very first time," said Phil Rogers, chief executive officer for the new organisation.

“This year’s show promises to be unforgettable with world premieres and our most diverse range of titles to date,” said Larry Sparks, Vice President of Brand, Square Enix products.“GamesCom 2009 gives us a great opportunity to share our most exciting upcoming games directly with consumers.”

To experience the latest titles from Square Enix first-hand, visit booth B54 in Hall 6 of GamesCom 2009. To find out more about Square Enix’s titles at GamesCom, please visit our official website at http://www.eu.square-enix.com/gamescom

Developer: Rocksteady Studios

Brand: Eidos

Platform: PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system / Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft / Games for Windows® LIVE

Genre: Action-Adventure

Release Date: 28th August, 2009

Featuring the world-renowned characters of DC Comics, Batman: Arkham Asylum, developed by Rocksteady Studios, will offer show visitors a journey into the depths of Gotham City’s psychiatric asylum for the criminally insane as Batman faces his greatest challenge yet.

Visitors will also have the chance to experience a selection of the game’s extensive FreeFlow™ Combat and Invisible Predator™ Challenge Maps. Also playable will be one of the eight maps that allow fans to play as The Joker, a character that is playable exclusively in the PLAYSTATION®3 Challenge Maps that will be made available as a free download for owners of the game through PlayStation®Network.

Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd.

Brand: Square Enix

Platform: PlayStation®Portable (PSP®) system

Genre: Fighting

Release Date: 4th September, 2009

DISSIDIA FINAL FANTASY does what no other FINAL FANTASY title has done before, bringing together an all-star cast to give players a chance to see their favourite FINAL FANTASY characters engage in high-intensity battles. Experience this renowned franchise, which has shipped over 85 million units worldwide, in a brand new light with this dramatic 3-D action game. Soar through expansive environments and participate in gripping combat, all while enjoying RPG-based character development that adds a rich layer of depth to the story behind the clashing forces. The battle between good and evil begins– What will you fight for?

Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd.

Brand: Square Enix

Platform: PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system / Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft

Genre: RPG

Release Date: 2010

Square Enix proudly presents FINAL FANTASY XIII, the latest instalment in the world-renowned FINAL FANTASY series. To celebrate the 13th numbered release in the series, Square Enix has undertaken a colossal project involving the development of various content for multiple platforms. FABULA NOVA CRYSTALLIS®, defined in Latin as“the new tale of the crystal,” is made up of several different titles based on variations of the FINAL FANTASY XIII universe. While each title in the project features different characters, different worlds and different stories, all are ultimately based on and expand upon a common mythos.

In FINAL FANTASY XIII, players will embark on a journey through the cityworld of Cocoon and the outerworld of Pulse, encountering and fighting alongside a diverse group of allies. Execute powerful attacks with weapons and magic, and summon the enigmatic Eidolons with an evolved Active Time Battle™ system. Experience seamless transitions between real-time gameplay and in-game cinematics. Do you have the courage to face your destiny?

Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd.

Brand: Square Enix

Platform: PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system / Windows PC

Release Date: 2010

The surprise announcement of E3 2009 is set to be one of the main attractions at GamesCom 2009. An all new massively-multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), planned for a simultaneous global release with language support in German, French, English and Japanese.

Adventure begins anew in the vast realm of Eorzea!

Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd.

Brand: Square Enix

Platform: Wii™

Genre: Action-Adventure

Release Date: This Winter

FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: THE CRYSTAL BEARERS provides a fresh take on the FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES series as it combines the storytelling depth, expansive world and graphical quality of FINAL FANTASY with motion-driven, real-time action gameplay. In this world, realistic gameplay and fantastical art direction are brought together for a truly unique experience for Wii users around the globe.

Developer: Double Helix Games™

Brand: Square Enix

Platforms: PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system / Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft / Windows PC

Genre: Third-Person Shooter

Release Date: TBA

From the creative minds of Square Enix and Double Helix Games, FRONT MISSION EVOLVED brings the classic FRONT MISSION® franchise into an action-packed third-person shooter that gives players full control of a massive humanoid war machine—the wanzer. Players will battle through intense combat situations as they explore an immersive world in both the single player campaign and online multiplayer.

Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd./h.a.n.d.

Brand: Square Enix

Platform: Nintendo DS™

Genre: Action-RPG

Release Date: Autumn 2009

Uncover the events that took place during the year Sora was asleep regaining his lost memories. KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days revolves around Roxas, the "other" hero from KINGDOM HEARTS II, and his days as a member of Organization XIII. Follow Roxas and the rest of Organization XIII across the various Disney Worlds, and discover the connection between him, Sora, and the mysterious 14th member, and the reasons behind his eventual departure from the organization. KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days also features a multiplayer mode for the first time, allowing players to control their favourite Organization XIII members!

Developer: IO Interactive

Brand: Eidos

Platform: Wii / Nintendo DS / Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft / PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system/ Games for Windows

Genre: Action-Adventure

Release Date: Autumn 2009

Mini Ninjas, from IO Interactive, will take you on a journey to feudal Japan where you’ll join Hiro, Futo, and the rest of the ninja clan on their biggest ninja adventure ever, as they embark on an epic and electrifying quest to restore harmony to a world on the brink of chaos.

Visitors will have the chance to get a free PC DVD containing the very first demo of Mini Ninjas to enjoy at home.

Developer: cavia, Inc.

Brand: Square Enix

Platforms: PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system / Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft

Genre: Action-Adventure

Release Date: 2010

Nothing is as it seems in Square Enix’s latest action adventure game, set in a crumbling world plagued by disease and dark, unrecognizable creatures. Players assume the role of the unyielding protagonist, NIER, resolute in his quest to discover a cure for his daughter, who is infected with the Black Scrawl virus. With powerful allies and a mysterious book, NIER encounters things that will confound even the mightiest of warriors.

Developer: Wargaming.net™

Brand: Square Enix

Platform: Windows PC

Genre: Real-Time Strategy

Release Date: 18th September, 2009

Square Enix teams up with strategy game specialist Wargaming.net to present ORDER OF WAR, a brand-new IP set for a simultaneous release across multiple territories. Developed exclusively for Windows PC, the game features massive-scale battles brought to life with a cinematic intensity never seen before in a WWII strategy game. Players will take command of an entire army including ground troops, artillery, tank divisions and aircraft in all-out strategic assaults. The single-player mode can be played out in two campaigns– American versus German forces on the western front and German versus American and Russian forces on both fronts. Missions will be based on key historic events and operations from 1944.

Developer: Tantalus Games

Brand: Eidos

Platforms: Wii / Nintendo DS / Windows PC

Genre: Virtual Pet

Release date: Winter 2009

Official website coming soon.

Pony Friends 2 allows players the chance to create their perfect Pony and take part in fun activities. Featuring 12 Pony breeds players can customise every aspect of its appearance, along with its own unique personality. Players can choose all their Pony’s accessories and even design some of their own. Taking special care of their Pony to keep it clean and healthy, players can take it on trail rides across different landscapes and environments. Grab the reins, photograph wildlife and unlock a whole host of secrets on your journey.

Pony Friends 2 features an exciting and energetic competitive mode across all formats: players can compete in races and trick competitions alone or with a friend on the Wii and DS (single cart play).

Developer: Gas Powered Games®

Brand: Square Enix

Platforms: Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft / Windows PC

Genre: Real-Time Strategy

Release date: 2010

Official website coming soon.

Set 25 years after the events of the original game, Supreme Commander 2 begins with the assassination of the newly elected president of the Colonial Defense Coalition. The CDC members– the United Earth Federation, the Order of the Illuminate, and the Cybran Nation– deny involvement, blame each other, and a galactic war ensues! Experience brutal battles on a massive scale! Players will wage war by creating enormous customizable armies and experimental war machines that can change the balance of power at any given moment. Take the role of one of the three enigmatic commanders, each representing a unique faction with a rich story that brings a new level of emotional connection to the RTS genre, or fight the battle online. Where do your loyalties lie?

About Square Enix

Square Enix brings two of Japan's best-selling franchises– FINAL FANTASY, which has sold over 85 million units worldwide, and DRAGON QUEST® which has sold over 50 million units worldwide– under one roof. Square Enix is one of the most influential providers of digital entertainment content in the world and continues to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation. http://www.square-enix.com

About Eidos

Eidos is the creator of some of the world's leading videogame properties, consisting of several development studios including Crystal Dynamics, IO Interactive, Beautiful Game Studios, Eidos Game Studios, Eidos Hungary and Eidos Montreal. It has a valuable portfolio of intellectual property including: Tomb Raider™, Hitman™, Deus Ex™, Championship Manager™ and Just Cause™.

BATMAN and all characters, their distinctive likenesses, and related elements are trademarks of DC Comics© 2009.

All Rights Reserved.

WBIE LOGO, WB SHIELD:™&© Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

DRAGON QUEST, FINAL FANTASY, SQUARE ENIX and the SQUARE ENIX logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd. in the United Kingdom and/or other countries. ACTIVE TIME BATTLE, CRYSTAL CHRONICLES, DISSIDIA, FABULA NOVA CRYSTALLIS, FRONT MISSION, FRONT MISSION EVOLVED, NIER and THE CRYSTAL BEARERS are registered trademarks or trademarks of Square Enix Co., Ltd. in the United Kingdom and/or other countries. Tomb Raider, Hitman, Deus Ex, Championship Manager, Just Cause, Mini Ninjas, Pony Friends, Eidos and the Eidos Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Eidos Interactive Ltd. All rights reserved. SUPREME COMMANDER is a trademark or registered trademark of Square Enix, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. KINGDOM HEARTS© Disney. Developed by SQUARE ENIX/h.a.n.d. Gas Powered Games is a registered trademark of Gas Powered Games Corp. ORDER OF WAR is a trademark of Wargaming.net. Published and distributed by SQUARE ENIX under license from Wargaming.net.“Double Helix Games” is a trademark of Backbone Entertainment.

BATMAN: ARKHAM ASYLUM Software© 2009 Eidos Interactive Ltd. Developed by Rocksteady Studios Ltd. Co-published by Eidos, Inc. and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, a division of Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Inc. Rocksteady and the Rocksteady logo are trademarks of Rocksteady Studios Ltd. IO Interactive and the IO logo are trademarks of IO Interactive A/S. Nintendo Properties are trademarks of Nintendo.“PlayStation” and the "PS" Family logo are registered trademarks and“PS3” is a trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Microsoft, Windows, Games for Windows, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox LIVE and the Xbox logos are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies and are used under license from Microsoft. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Square Enix Limited is a company registered in England&Wales under the number 3679704 whose registered office is Castle House, 37-45 Paul Street, London EC2A 4LS

Alex Huhtala for Square Enix brand

European Public Relations Manager

Square Enix Europe

+44 (0) 20 7324 5223

Chris Glover for Eidos brand

Group Communications Director

Square Enix Europe

+ 44 (0) 20 8636 3000

Games PressGames Press is the leading online resource for games journalists. Used daily by magazines, newspapers, TV, radio, online media and retailers worldwide, it offers a vast, constantly updated archive of press releases and assets, and is the simplest and most cost-effective way for PR professionals to reach the widest possible audience. Registration for the site and the Games Press email digest is available, to the trade only, at www.gamespress.com.


text:
Mario & Sonic At The Olympic Winter Games

James Batchelor

Mario & Sonic At The Olympic Winter Games

To call Mario & Sonic At The Olympic Games a success is to call Mount Everest a bit tall. The game has sold more than ten million units around the world, driven by its combination of loveable iconic characters and fun, accessible mini-games that delighted entire families the world over.

A sequel, it could be argued, was inevitable. Sure enough, MCV revealed a snow-covered follow-up back in February in the form of Mario & Sonic At The Olympic Winter Games. Needless to say, this is going to be big.

Set during next year’s Vancouver event, the title sees gaming’s favourite mascots competing once more,
and arrives on retail shelves just in time to dominate the gifting period for a second time. Sega is, understandably, rather optimistic.

“The first Mario & Sonic Olympic title has sold over two million units in the UK alone,” says marketing manager Jo Fawell. “The Winter Olympic version is a whole new Mario & Sonic experience. It’s bigger and better than ever, and we’re confident that consumers will agree that this is a great game and a perfect Christmas gaming gift.”

A change of season means a change in line-up, with a brand new range of events for players to participate in.
Gone are the running circuits and swimming pools of
the original, heralding the arrival of ice rinks, snowy mountain passes and toboggan runs.

Every winter sport imaginable is available, including the likes of skiing, skating, luge, bobsleigh and more.
There are even new dream events, bringing a little video game charm to an otherwise serious sporting event, with examples including the Dream Snowball Fight.

Another new aspect is a more immersive approach to controls. Once again, the game will make the most of the Wii’s motion sensitive controls and the DS’s stylus precision, but now the console version will be compatible with the Balance Board. Families will find themselves leaning back and forth to control snowboards and skiis, and even lie down with their chest on the board to navigate the twisting course of the skeleton event.

As with the original, the emphasis will be on multiplayer and both the Wii and DS versions will cater for up to four players in all events – a feature that is certain to be popular over the upcoming holiday season.

“Mario & Sonic At The Olympic Winter Games has moved on in terms of gameplay experience from the original in so many ways,” says Fawell. “The use of the Balance Board and more intuitive controls add a whole new depth of gameplay.

“More fun dream events have been added, new characters and mini-games have also been included. The multiplayer events have more co-operative and competitive play using both balance board and Wii Remote.

“A new mode on the Wii allows players to experience a Winter Olympic campaign from the opening ceremony until the close of the event.

“The DS has an all-new adventure mode that allows players not only a solus gaming experience by wi-fi play with up to four players from one game cartridge. Therefore we are confident the game offers a new Mario & Sonic experience for players.”

Mario & Sonic is Sega’s biggest release of the Christmas season, and given the success of the original, the firm is keen to let everyone know, with a mammoth marketing campaign:

Millions of pounds have been invested in a four-month TV campaign ads running alongside key programmes such as X Factor. 90-second ads will takeover
five kids’ channels on the game’s launch day.

Sega estimates that 93 per cent of housewives and 88 per cent of kids will see the advert 11 times each, while 80 per cent of 16 to 34 year-old adults will see the advert eight times each.

A five-month campaign will see 30-second ads running before family and children’s blockbusters. This will rack up eight million admissions over the duration of the campaign.

Over the course of six months, Sega has secured five front covers on various specialist and consumer publications, supported by three months of print advertising.

Mario & Sonic is already receiving positive reviews, with Official Nintendo Magazine awarding Gold awards and scores of over 90 per cent to both Wii and DS versions.

There will be ads running across key specialist and lifestyle sites for four weeks, incorporating dedicated interactive creatives and takeovers.

Sega has prepared its biggest retail marketing campaign to date. Spanning a whopping eight months, this will include in-store activites, set to run from launch through to February 2010. There will be a full range of premium POS available and pre-order incentives running across retail, which will be supported by competitions and online features in the months after launch. The company has also arranged in-store events across 40 retail outlets.

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text:
BURNETTE, Timothy Hal
August 29, 2014 09:54 PM | 1674 views | 0 0 comments | 11 11 recommendations | email to a friend | print
Mr. Timothy Hal Burnette, age 57, of 2574 Cedar Canyon Drive, Marietta, GA, passed away Friday, August 29, 2014 at Hospice of Atlanta. The son of Ruby Cash Burnette Shafer and the late J. C. Burnette, he was born December 31, 1957 in Marietta where he lived all his life. He was employed by the Cobb County Government System and was of the Baptist Faith. Survivors include his mother, Ruby Cash Burnette Shafer of Marietta, GA; his wife, Vikki Burnette of the home; 2 step-daughters and sons-in-law, Christy & Chris Prewett of Kingston, GA, Michelle & John Devine of Ball Ground, GA; step-son, Joe Cleveland of Winder, GA; eight grandchildren and 2 brothers and sisters-in-law, Terry & Toni Burnette of Gainesville, GA, Tony & Laura Burnette of Acworth, GA; sister and brother-in-law Karen & Johnny Cook of Woodstock, GA. Funeral Services will be 2 PM, Sunday, August 31, 2014 at the Hillcrest Chapel of the Acree-Davis Funeral Home with the Reverend Roger Elrod officiating. The family is at their respective homes and will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from noon until the service hour. The following will serve as pallbearers, Joe Cleveland, Terry Burnette, Chris Prewett, Ray Jordan, John Devine, and Ben Cook. Interment will be in the Stephens Memorial Gardens with the Acree-Davis Funeral Home in charge of arrangements for Mr Tim Burnette. Online condolences may be made by viewing our website:

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text:
Salmonella victim to sue Foster Farms, Costco

by Meat&Poultry Staff
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FRESNO – Foster Farms and Costco Wholesale Corp. face a personal injury lawsuit filed by a Fresno County fire captain who was sickened after eating chicken contaminated with Salmonella Heidelburg, according to a Merced Sun-Star report.

The Merced Sun-Star reported that Robert Jeremiah Wittwer became ill three days before federal public health and food safety agencies alerted consumers about the contaminated chicken products. Wittwer was hospitalized after the infection spread to his spine. He recovered from his illness after months of rehabilitation and antibiotics.

Wittwer is suing Foster Farms and Costco for personal injury and product liability. He is seeking damages for lost wages and expenses related to his treatment for the Salmonella infection.

Foster Farms recently released a statement defending the safety of its chicken products. maintained that its poultry products are safe if properly handled and fully cooked.

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