Smart cookie: Traditional Chinese dessert contained an extraordinary fortune for CSUN graduate

Daria Artem decorates a giant fortune cookie at Lady Fortunes, the Canoga Park business she founded after receiving a fortune of her own at a Chinese restaurant. (Michael Owen Baker/Staff Photographer)

CANOGA PARK -- Daria Artem won't forget the night 10 years ago when fortune smiled on her.

As her birthday dinner with friends at P.F. Chang's in Woodland Hills wound down, Artem cracked open her fortune cookie.

"You will be successful in business," the little slip of paper said.

"I said I wish it was bigger because I want to share my fortune with everyone," Artem recalled telling the group. "One of my friends challenged me to make a fortune cookie as big as a cake that we could share."

And so she did.

It wasn't long before Artem -- whose 33rd birthday is today - was turning out supersized fortune cookies and other confectionery treats in the kitchen of her Bell Canyon home. She called the startup business

Fortune cookies are big -- and bedazzled -- at Lady Fortunes in Canoga Park. (Michael Owen Baker/Staff Photographer)

href="http://www.ladyfortunes.com">Lady Fortunes Inc.

Today, Lady Fortunes operates out of a 5,000-square-foot bakery with 27 employees in Canoga Park. It turned out 5 million to 8 million cookies last year and generated $4.5 million in sales, said Artem, the company's CEO and Chief Confectionery Officer.

And the treats have gone from her modest warehouse to the White House.

In 2006 Artem was selected to bake 300 cookies featuring the presidential seal for the Presidents Day Party hosted by then-first lady Laura Bush.

The catch? Protocol deemed she had to pay her own way to Washington and bake in the White House kitchen.

Was she ready for the challenge? You bet.

"There is nothing to describe it," Artem said of the experience. "You just feel so proud. It's an honor. It doesn't matter if you are a Republican or Democrat. You are at the heart of the country. You get goosebumps."

Two years later she baked some cookies decorated with Barack Obama's picture for a couple of his presidential campaign fundraising dinners.

It was a fast ascent for a company born from a challenge made during a birthday dinner.

"I jumped on the Internet and looked up recipes for fortune cookies. Martha Stewart happens to be my idol so when I saw she had a recipe I grabbed it and adapted it," said Artem, who had formed a public relations firm, Artem PR, after graduating from California State University, Northridge, in 2001.

It took about two weeks after that P.F. Chang's dinner to come up with a big fortune cookie that was identical to the smaller ones.

But what can you do with a giant fortune cookie?

Artem dipped her oversized treats in chocolate and gave them to prospective and current clients of her PR firm.

Inside was a fortune that read, "You are one smart cookie when you work with Daria."

"One (client) said `Where did you get this. I want one.' And when a client asks for something you don't

CSUN graduate Daria Artem shows off the product at Lady Fortunes in Canoga Park. (Michael Owen Baker/Staff Photographer)

say no," she said. "I thought it was a fluke."

But more orders started coming in, and then while Artem was working on the Honda Insight marketing campaign, the company ordered 120 big fortune cookies.

Bingo. A business was born. The kitchen of her Bell Canyon home became its headquarters as she turned out private label novelties for a variety of online sites.

"I was sleeping three hours a night. It was very hectic and didn't leave me any time for myself or my family. Saturday and Sunday are family days and I pretty much worked them back to back," she said.

Making a giant fortune cookie is just like making a regular one, only on a bigger scale, Artem said. The trick is folding the cookie into its distinctive shape. Only about six out of 10 make it off the production line to market.

Her confectionery catalog also includes a variety of products that can be customized with sprinkles -- she has a huge collection at her factory -- and promotional themes like company logos, slogans and pictures.

The latter are edible and done with a proprietary scanner that captures details fine enough that the image looks like it's printed on paper. The culinary artwork is made from fondant, a sugar-based product, Artem said.

By 2004, orders were coming in at a rapid enough clip that Artem and her fiance, Yasser Emeira, decided to invest the $20,000 they were going to spend on their wedding to lease a facility for baking, supply storage and the management of the company. They tapped a second round of self-funding -- $25,000 that was the honeymoon stash -- to buy equipment.

She signed the lease on Feb. 13 and got her big break later that year at the Fancy Food Show in New York. She basically snowed buyers for Sam's Club and Wal-Mart into believing that Lady Fortunes was bigger than a one-woman operation. They signed contracts a month apart to feature her products on their websites.

Others eventually followed suit.

Eighteen months ago Artem made a successful pitch to the site 1-800-Bakery.com based in Winchester, Mass. Company CEO Stephen Pazyra signed up for some Lady Fortunes products -- including the big cookie -- after a vetting process.

It included a taste test by his four bakers with more than 100 years experience, collectively. But Pazyra was also looking for something else.

"The first thing we do is have them ship us product so we can do a quality check on the items and also how it ships. When you are an online business you have to make sure the product is going to arrive in top quality shape," he said.

Artem and her crew got high marks from Pazyra and his crew. Now she gets about 50 orders a week, he said.

Pazyra said Artem's cookie bouquets are very popular and keyed to seasonal themes. For example, at Halloween each cookie will have a different scary picture.

"It's the looks and the quality of the design," he said. "She also does a good job with corporate logos on the cookies."

And that is important when a big chunk of your revenue is business-to-business sales.

Turns out Artem's formula for success sprung from a tiny slip of paper and a simple recipe of sugar, eggs, flour, hard work and unwavering belief in a dream.

And one big cookie, too.

"It's definitely different, and a lot of fun. People who see this think it's the bees knees," she said. "You can't go into anything without being 100 percent invested. I went into it with a lot of confidence and giving it all of my self."

Lady Fortunes Top 10 Fortunes

1. I am so "fortune"-ate to have you in my life.

2. You are my sweetest cookie and my greatest fortune....You make my heart crumble!

3. Confucius says: a bundle of good fortune is on the way!

4. The "perfect diet" is a cookie in each hand!

5. Lady Fortune will smile on you

6. You are one sweet and smart cookie!

7. The fortune you seek is in a giant fortune cookie!

8. When good fortune does not knock -- build a door!

9. Hard work is the mother of good fortune

10. Good fortune favors those who eat cookies!

---

greg.wilcox@dailynews.com
818-713-3743
twitter.com/dngregwilcox

Source: http://www.dailynews.com/ci_21187678/smart-cookie-traditional-chinese-dessert-contained-an-extraordinary?source=rss_emailed

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New Elder Care Technology Helps Seniors and Their Families ...

by John Vermillion (John R. Vermillion & Associates, LLC)

If there is one area of modern life that seniors are often not so comfortable with, it is new technology. However, there are a range of new gadgets that have come onto the market recently that can help both seniors and their families, especially when the senior lives alone or does not have regular assistance. Here?s a brief list of some of the newer options that technology has wrought.

Senior-Friendly Computers
Though many seniors do not feel comfortable with computers or the Internet, Telekin.com is now offering a senior friendly computer that features a keyboard with large print, easy video chat features, as well as free updates and a DVD player. The computer sells for $699.

Home Monitoring
There are also a variety of companies that offer a range of home monitoring and tracking services. Depending on the senior?s needs, the services range from pacemaker monitoring devices to in-home motion sensors that allow healthcare workers and family members to keep track of the senior?s movements in the home. For example, a motion sensor package offered by Beclose.com provides motion sensors and the panic button for $299, plus a $49 monthly monitoring service.

Tracking Devices
For Alzheimer?s and dementia sufferers, a new shoe may provide some security in preventing an elderly family member from getting lost or walking away. Using a GPS sensor implanted in the shoe, GPSshoe.com keeps track of a senior?s location. Shoes cost about $300, in the monthly tracking plans range from about $35-$40 per month. Other tracking devices can be attached to an elderly person?s clothing or worn as a wristwatch.

Experienced estate planning attorneys Dallas TX of the John R. Vermillion & Associates, LLC offers estate planning and business planning resources to residents of Dallas TX. To learn more about these free resources, please visit www.revocabletrusts.com today.

http://www.revocabletrusts.com

Source: http://targetlaw.com/new-elder-care-technology-helps-seniors-and-their-families

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Online World Security software | Technology And Mobile Blog

July 30th, 2012

Internet security software Software is also analyzed and also accredited by some world?s primary check labs. Throughout any Audio-video-Test protection test, Panda attained 89%, on the list of very best in the market. This accomplished superior to additional products like AVG and Norton Internet Security Application 2012 on having the capacity to shield against adware and spyware potential risks.

Regrettably, Panda had not been examined by merely Computer virus Bulletins that can oftimes be since seller didn?t offer the software program pertaining to tests. This is often a little unsatisfactory, thinking about how popular the herpes simplex virus Message credit score can be.

It gives you a safe and sound internet browser function that prevents phishing episodes and various hazards that are quickly propagate as a result of surfers. General, Panda Internet Security Computer software Next year is undoubtedly an remarkable stability plan and definitely the most beneficial on the market. They have several features as well as their venture in to cloud-based security is a wonderful good results.

Source: http://existtheblog.com/online-world-security-software/

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Spotlight On: BIA ? DIGITAL ROCHESTER | Rochester New York

What does BIA do?

BIA is a leader in the eDiscovery industry with over a decade of experience helping corporations, law firms and governmental agencies identify, gather, analyze and produce electronic and paper documents for litigation, regulatory investigations and compliance matters.?Our innovative TotalDiscovery.com and DiscoveryBOT? technologies have been used to collect data from tens of thousands of computers, servers, social networks and complex enterprise systems spread across more than 45 countries on six continents.? With BIA?s technology solutions, the days of sending technicians in to disrupt employees and collect data onsite are gone, replaced with an elegant, secure and defensible solution that provides a better result, in less time, and with minimal employee or business interruption.?BIA?s Technology Assisted Review (TAR) platform has been used for over two years in reviews of hundreds of millions of pages of documents, providing our clients with increased accuracy and higher quality control, all while saving tens of thousands to millions of dollars over traditional document review processes.?Rounding out BIA?s technology is its professional services team, which provides expertise ranging from advanced computer forensics services to general advisory, strategy consulting and project management.? Together, BIA?s software products and professional services combine to provide our customers a unified, integrated, single-source solution.

Do you have a recent accomplishment to share with us?

On July 18^th, BIA launched major new new data collection features for TotalDiscovery.com that include Twitter, Facebook, webmail and more. This marks the first time that a web-based e-Discovery tool offers integrated data collections not only from desktops, files and servers, but now also from social media sites like Facebook and Twitter, as well as from a number of webmail providers. TotalDiscovery.com now supports data collection from the following social networks and cloud-based tools:

What product or service that you offer would be considered the ?best kept secret? among DR members? In other words, what product or service might make the DR community really excited?

BIA?s TotalDiscovery.com solution is the ?best kept secret among DR members.? TotalDiscovery.com is an easy and defensible way for companies to manage their entire e-Discovery needs, providing a single online application that handles legal holds, early case assessment, data collections, processing and delivery, all with no software to install or hardware to purchase.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Contact us today at 888-338-4242 for a demo. Mention that you are a DR member and get 20% off your first project.

BIA,?510 Clinton Square,?Rochester, NY 14604 (585)939-7566

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Source: http://digitalrochester.com/blog/2012/07/30/spotlight-on-bia/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=spotlight-on-bia

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Texans WR Johnson hurts groin, leaves practice

By CHRIS DUNCAN

AP Sports Writer

Associated Press Sports

updated 10:32 a.m. ET July 29, 2012

HOUSTON (AP) - Houston Texans receiver Andre Johnson has left practice with a pulled groin muscle.

Coach Gary Kubiak says Johnson's injury appears minor, but it may still force Johnson to miss "a few" practices.

Johnson missed nine games last season with hamstring injuries and was sidelined from the first organized team activities in the spring after arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. The five-time Pro Bowl selection started Sunday morning's practice and pulled up during a one-on-one drill.

He watched the rest of the outdoor half of the workout with a towel wrapped around his head, then went to Reliant Stadium when the practice moved indoors.

? 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

advertisement

Source: http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/48382835/ns/sports-nfl/

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NOLAfans: Hornets' Aminu seals opening win for Nigeria... http://t.co/qJN0CWnw #NBA

Sorry, Readability was unable to parse this page for content.

Source: http://twitter.com/NOLAfans/statuses/229525050234126336

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UNIDO Director General to address Africa's Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors

PHILADELPHIA (USA)- Africa's finance ministers and central bank governors are expected to meet in Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo to attend arguably one of the continent's most important events along with representatives of other international development agencies and financial institutions.

The Africa Caucus Meeting was formed following the Monterrey Convention of 2002 in Mexico. It comprises of African member countries of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) seeking to engage other policy makers around the continent in addressing issues relating to Africa's economic transformation.

In an effort to promote transformative economic growth in the continent, discussions at the 2012 meetings will focus on tackling the problems associated with and finding lasting solutions to food security, energy access, job creation particularly for the youth and confronting Africa's endemic poverty.

As keynote speaker, Director General Kandeh K. Yumkella of UNIDO will speak about the boosting agricultural productivity in the continent. As a distinguished agricultural economist, Dr. Yumkella has a wealth of experience in research, teaching and technical expertise in industrial development. He is a strong advocate for pro-poor sustainable industrial and agribusiness development as a means of wealth and job creation and the economic empowerment of the poor.

In his capacity as co-editor of his organization's publication ?Agribusiness for Africa's Prosperity,? DG Yumkella argues that a new agricultural development policy is needed to meet the economic and social development needs of the continent. This new approach calls specifically for moving away from subsistence farming to the use of modern technologies and agro-industrials that promote mechanization.

His passion for energy and environment-related issues has enabled him to lead UN Energy and Secretary General Ban Ki-moon's Sustainable Energy for All initiative (SE4All). Through his leadership and efforts in meeting with world leaders and their governments, multilateral development banks among others, he was instrumental in securing USD 50B to promote universal access to energy , increasing energy efficiency and enhancing the deployment of renewable sources of energy in support of his boss energy access initiative.

President Joseph Kabila will formally open the Caucus meetings which will take place on August 1-2, 2012.

Source: http://www.modernghana.com/news/408601/1/unido-director-general-to-address-africas-finance-.html

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SAG-AFTRA ACTOR: 'Ruby Sparks' Filmmakers; 'Game of Thrones ...

Filmmakers Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris on making ?Ruby
Sparks?-- the follow up to their hit ?Little Miss Sunshine.? Plus, the
linguist who created the language Dothraki for the HBO Fantasy series
?Game of Thrones.?

Main Topic

?Ruby Sparks? Filmmakers?

Filmmakers Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris talk with Kim Masters about the pressure to follow their 2006 indie sensation ?Little Miss Sunshine? with just the right second film. They had many starts and stops on other projects over the last six years and often went back to directing commercials to pay the bills. But in the end this married couple-- who compares co-directing with parenting-- landed the job directing the new romantic comedy ?Ruby Sparks.?

Guests:

Links:

Banter

The Hollywood News Banter?

Michael Schneider,Bureau Chief of TV Guide Magazine joins John Horn, Film Writer for The Los Angeles Times, to banter about some of this week?s top Hollywood News stories.

?Gangster Squad? release date is pushed in wake of the movie theater massacre.
?American Idol? reboots with Mariah Carey as new judge
?Modern Family? cast sues producing studio over contracts
Peter Jackson wants to make a third ?Hobbit? movie

Guests:

Main Topic

?Game of Thrones? Linguist?

Saul Gonzalez visits Berkeley-trained linguist, David Peterson in his Orange County apartment and finds the brain behind the ?Game of Thrones? warrior language, Dothraki. Peterson explains how he got the gig writing for the HBO fantasy series and how he works with the production-- translating and recording the Dothraki lines for actors. He also joyfully announces he?s recently helped another member of the LanguageCreation Society get a gig on an upcoming blockbuster movie.

Guests:

Links:

Source: http://www.sagactoronline.com/2012/07/ruby-sparks-filmmakers-game-of-thrones.html

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EYES ON LONDON: British anti-climax, hidden flame

LONDON (AP) ? Around the 2012 Olympics and its host city with journalists from The Associated Press bringing the flavor and details of the games to you:

___

IT WASN'T TO BE

The excitement near the road course finish line outside the palace fell flat as Great Britain and favorite Mark Cavendish failed to win a medal.

"I was there when he didn't win it!" shouted Richard Jones of London.

He'd been watching the race on television with his wife and another couple when they decided with an hour to go to hustle over to Buckingham Palace for the finish.

"We practically did a triathlon to get here," said Jane Carson of Chester. "And we didn't even get very close ? but neither did Cav."

? Jenna Fryer ? Twitter http://twitter.com/jennafryer

___

STAG DO

A rowing regatta isn't the usual place to start a bachelor party.

It worked out just fine for husband-to-be Martin Stanning, though, as he watched sister Heather romp to victory in the women's pair with partner Helen Glover at Dorney Lake? setting a Olympic best time in the process.

Martin was under orders in the "stag do" ? as it's called in Britain ? from his older brother Alistair, who was organizer-in-chief. His parents were there, too.

Glover and Stanning are big favorites to win the final of the women's pair on Wednesday after going through this season unbeaten. If they win gold, they'll become the first British women to do so.

?Steve Douglas ? Twitter http://twitter.com/sdouglas80

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HOT VENUE

Although the ExCel venue is well south of the Olympic Park, the venue is shaping up as a surprisingly good place to catch the Olympic spirit.

ExCel is hosting boxing, weightlifting, judo, fencing and table tennis in separate spaces, but the sprawling complex is connected by a central hall that has turned into a pedestrian mall where the combined crowd can mingle amid a large array of dining options.

With thousands of fans pouring off trains Saturday, ExCel had a remarkable vibe as each of its sports except wrestling got underway. The venue's only obvious flaw is a lack of seating in that central hall, where hundreds of people are just sitting on the ground to eat their baked potatoes and curries.

? Greg Beacham ? Twitter http://twitter.com/gregbeacham

___

HERE COMES THE SUN

Another day in often-soggy London, another healthy dose of blue skies and bright sunshine. With a cool breeze blowing gently, it's hard to imagine a better start to these games from a weather perspective.

How did we get so lucky? Maybe Sir Paul asked John and George to put in a good word for a little help from above.

? Jon Krawczynski ? Twitter http://www.twitter.com/APKrawczynski

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GYM INTRIGUE

There's intrigue at the men's gymnastics.

China, which hasn't lost a major competition since the 2004 Olympics, is already second after a dismal performance this morning.

The U.S. has got through its worst event ? pommel horse ? in decent shape while Japan, runner-up to China at both the Beijing Olympics and the last two world championships, had to count a fall on high bar, one of its better events.

? Nancy Armour, Twitter www.twitter.com/nrarmour

___

KAZAKH GOLD

After a sprint finish, Alexander Vinokourov of Kazakhstan wins the Olympic gold medal in the men's cycling road race. Britain's high hopes of a medal have been dashed.

___

CANADA PROUD

"This is only my second one since 1972, so I am a rookie to opening ceremony, but one word: Proud!" ? "Captain Canada" Ian Millar, 10-time Olympian and 2008 Olympic silver medallist in team show jumping

?Danica Kirka ? http://twitter.com/danicakirka

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OLYMPIC SPIRIT

Putting aside their rivalry here, football players from Brazil, Egypt, Belarus and New Zealand are sharing the same hotel in Manchester and are getting along just fine.

The Brazilian federation has posted photos of the teams playing table tennis together and says players from the four teams have been mingling in activities throughout the hotel. The teams are playing in Group C of the men's Olympic tournament.

? Tales Azzoni ? Twitter http://twitter.com/tazzoni

___

SECOND BEST

Greg Munford, 31, applied for "loads" of tickets but didn't get a single one. "I was gutted," he says.

So he came from his home in the English city of Bath to London's Hyde Park, where thousands of people are sprawled on wood chips (the grass fell victim to a concert series and wet weather) watching five big screens showing everything from handball to cycling.

"If I can't get to the venues this is the second-best place to be," says Munford. "I'm soaking up the spirit." He admits he didn't understand much of the dressage on the screen, but offered: "It all looks very elegant!"

? Niko Price ? Twitter http://twitter.com/nikoprice

___

BUSTLING PARK

Tourist Time.

Olympic Park is hustling and bustling. The pathways are filled with foot traffic, the merchandise stores bursting with visitors.

Everyone appears to be getting the lay of the land, and the benches and tables appear to be very popular as folks grab a rest from all the walking.

?Jon Krawczynski ? Twitter http://www.twitter.com/APKrawczynski

___

CHAOS AT THE PALACE

There's chaos outside Buckingham Palace where the men's road course race will zoom by at the finish.

Thousands are surging toward the barricades, as security is imploring people to back up into Green Park or move further down the course.

Nobody wants to move, though, as everyone is eager to see Great Britain possibly win its first medal.

?Jenna Fryer ? Twitter http://twitter.com/jennafryer

___

HIDDEN FLAME

It's a shame you can't see the Olympic flame. That was the reaction from visitors to London's Olympic Park and across Twitter on Saturday, as the intricate cauldron and its copper petals remained out of sight in the middle of the stadium.

All recent Olympics have featured a flaming cauldron, visible across the Olympic precinct.

But in London, only spectators lucky enough to have a ticket for events inside the main stadium will actually see it. Other park visitors will only be able to see an image beamed onto big screens.

At a news conference Saturday, cauldron creator Thomas Heatherwick defended the decision, saying organizers had tried to resist the temptation of creating a cauldron that was bigger, fatter or higher than at previous games.

"There was the complete precedent of the 1948 (London) Games of the cauldron set within the stadium... to one side with the spectators and with the technology we now have that didn't exist in 1948 it can be shared with everyone in the Park with screens," Heatherwick said.

The cauldron design was backed by the UK prime minister, but some members of the International Olympic Committee are said to be privately critical of the concept.

? Sandy Macintyre and Mark Davies

___

HER MAJESTY'S SECRET SERVICE

Seems even the queen can't resist the opportunity to act with Daniel Craig.

The British monarch didn't need much persuading to take part in the brief flick that electrified the 2012 London Olympics opening ceremony, says Jackie Brock-Doyle, the spokeswoman for the organizing committee.

"She liked the whole concept Danny brought together," she says ? presumably right down to the detail of having the queen's corgis, Monty, Holly and Willow, similarly take starring roles.

The matter was presented to her majesty by organizing committee chairman Sebastian Coe last year.

? Danica Kirka ? http://twitter.com/danicakirka

___

CLOSE SHAVE

British gymnast Louis Smith knows a thing or two about making a statement. The eccentric 23-year-old ? the 2008 Olympic bronze medalist on pommel horse ? is known as much for his well-coiffed hair and elaborate tattoos as his elegant routines.

A couple of days before the biggest ? and perhaps final ? meet of his life, Smith slipped out of the Olympic village to his home in Peterborough to visit his barber.

"I could have used one in the village, but I didn't want to tell him he was doing it wrong," Smith said.

He returned with a distinctive do, with shaved sides and a meticulously groomed flowing flattop.

Smith says the "hip" cut is designed to grab the kind of attention he thinks the sport needs.

?Will Graves ? Twitter http://twitter.com/WillGravesAP

___

AN AMAECHI MOMENT

Strolling through security to enter Olympic Park, former British basketball star John Amaechi says he has been quite pleased with how his home country has opened these games.

The center paired with gymnast Nadia Comaneci to take the torch to the roof of the North Greenwich Arena earlier this month and is eager to see how Britain opens against powerful Russia in its men's basketball opener on Sunday.

"It's been wonderful so far, but the real work hasn't even started," Amaechi says. "That will tell the tale."

?Jon Krawczynski ? Twitter http://www.twitter.com/APKrawczynski

___

I SEE BY YOUR OUTFIT ...

Dressed head to toe in the British flag ? or, rather, AS the British flag ? Mick Burn wanted to find a spot along the road course to cheer cyclist Mark Cavendish.

But his outfit was so extreme, the man from Watford in Hertfortshire couldn't make it more than a few feet (meters) at a time without being stopped by fans wanting to pose for a picture with him.

"I've been mobbed all day," he says. And he's delighted by that fact.

It took him almost two years and 200 pounds (more than $300) to assemble the outfit, which consisted of everything from "posh golf pants," a waistcoat, his watch, eyeglasses and even his underwear. The toughest item was the sport coat, which cost him 50 pounds (about $75) on eBay.

Burn had thought his niece, rower Lucinda Gooderham, would be competing in these games. She didn't qualify, but he vowed to keep fine-tuning the outfit for Rio.

See a picture of him here: http://pic.twitter.com/IxF6WM7y

?Jenna Fryer ? Twitter http://twitter.com/jennafryer

___

SMOOOOOOOOOOTH

"Louis Smith as smooth as strawberries and cream on pommel horse. It's like he's in slow motion, control in amazing." ? AP's Will Graves tweets from the gymnastics venue. A spectacular pommel horse by Britain's Smith capped the day for the British, who finished almost 2.5 points ahead of China with at a total of 272.420. Team finals are Monday.

?Will Graves ? Twitter http://twitter.com/WillGravesAP

___

GHOST TOWN

On a Saturday lunchtime, London's main shopping area, Oxford Street should be packed. Saturday afternoon, it is surprisingly empty of the usual crowd of Londoners and tourists. Were there a lot of late nights last night at opening ceremony parties or are the crowds in different parts of London enjoying the events?

?Fergus Bell ? Twitter http://twitter.com/fergb

___

__

EDITOR'S NOTE ? "Eyes on London" shows you the Olympics through the eyes of Associated Press journalists across the 2012 Olympic city and around the world. Follow them on Twitter where available with the handles listed after each item, and get even more AP updates from the Games here: http://twitter.com/AP_Sports

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/eyes-london-british-anti-climax-hidden-flame-153944500--oly.html

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Popular fitness club opens new Pilates centre | Gymrat Fitness

Over the last twenty years many Czechs have drastically changed their lifestyles, eating healthier foods and taking up new sports. Every weekend, cyclists and rollerblade-users hit local parks in Prague from V?tkov Hill to Stromovka. Fitness clubs which emerged over the same period are also going strong, drawing regular-goers to work-out in the gym, cycle indoors, or attend aerobics classes. Martin Nehasil is the programme director as well as a personal trainer at Solarium Fitness BBC ? a popular fitness chain in the Czech capital. When I met with him at the club?s flagship gym on Vinohradsk? Street, he explained there are constant innovations in the approach to fitness, ideal for anyone looking to improve their health.

Martin Nehasil ?Whether we?re speaking of new clients or seasoned sportsmen and women, more people are realising they want to be fit. It can be someone new who joins or it can be someone who has been bodybuilding for years but realises, with experience, they need to include other types of exercise as well, such as yoga, Pilates, and stretching. There are more options than ever before, such as zumba classes to help people get fit, and more people now have a better understanding and are taking advantage.?

The popular fitness centre recently opened a ?club within a club? at its Vinohradsk? address, one specifically tailored to Pilates ? the widely-popular fitness system developed in the first half of the 20th century, now recognised worldwide. The system focuses on flexibility and endurance and the building of so-called ?long muscles? for a lean, well-balanced and agile physique, as opposed to bunched up muscles common, for example, among hardcore bodybuilders. Trainer Anna Hrachov? has taught Pilates for seven years:

?In the Czech Republic it has long been common to practice Pilates on mats but less so on machines. There are some studios of course that have them but the new one that we opened recently is the largest so far, with 20 re-firmer machines and other equipment.?

According to Ms Hrachov?, the emphasis in the 55-minute long lessons is on the body as a whole; in short, the approach is holistic:

Photo: Fitness BBC ?It belongs among body-and-mind exercises: it is a combination of strength exercises and stretching, done without music and without choreography. And it focuses on the deep stabilisation system that some will know if they?ve ever had physical rehab.?

In what way do the machines help?

?If you are a beginner they help you achieve proper posture and toning of the right muscles and when you are advanced they help create more variation and difficulty in exercises.?

By now, by curiosity has been peaked, so I ask the charming trainer if she?ll allow me to try one of machines. Not recommended with jeans, by the way.

Here?s how things went:

?Lie down on your back with your head on the headrest and your feet on the foot bar. Because you are holding the mic we will do a leg exercise. There should be a space between your shoulder blocks??

Photo: Fitness BBC ?So far so good. I?m lying on the machine now.?

?We will use these straps on your feet, so give me your left leg and your right one.?

I haven?t bent like this in years! ?

?You will lower your legs below 60 degrees, now lift them higher, keep your carriage stable? and the movement should be fluent and fluid and you should do it??

Twenty times!

?Twenty times! Ha ha! Yeah, that?s right.?

Photo: Fitness BBC And that was it. My first ever Pilates exercise. It didn?t take long before my feats on the machine attracted other interested onlookers, like Sunan, an American in Prague who lifts weights regularly.

?It feels like a light workout but I am sure it is just a beginning. I know the focus is on stretching the body to keep everything limber. A least, that?s the little bit I read.?

Lessons in Pilates can be in groups according to a regular schedule or individual lessons. In the beginning, least specialists including Martin Nehasil say it is a good idea to take a trainer to learn necessary steps properly and avoid picking up bad habits just like any other sport.

?Like in tennis or any other sport, it is possible to pick up bad habits or mistakes early. So at the beginning it?s a good idea to go over the specifics with an expert. Otherwise you could end up hurting and not helping yourself. The idea is to improve, not make things worse!?

Photo: Fitness BBC I certainly enjoyed my stint and if you are considering on trying Pilates or just simply getting in shape, what are you waiting for? I certainly need to, but all of us do in a way ? just to different degrees. If you?re already attending fitness classes or lifting weights or running, you might want to consider Pilates. The best thing, like the Nike slogan says, is probably just to do it. Martin Nehasil again:

?Of course the machines aren?t easy, as you saw yourself. It can be tough. They?re physical and emphasise breathing but are ideal for a better overall body and to stay in shape.?

Source: http://www.gymrat-fitness.com/popular-fitness-club-opens-new-pilates-centre

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Charitable Giving Higher for ECFA Members | Church Executive

Posted by admin Latest News Friday, July 27th, 2012

Contrasts with Decrease in Donations to Religious Charities Overall

WINCHESTER, Va. ? Cash charitable giving to ECFA members with fiscal years ending in 2011 reflected a modest increase from 2010, the organization announced today. This contrasts with a decrease in giving to religious charities overall, as noted in a recent national report.

Giving to ECFA-accredited organizations increased 3.4 percent from 2010, totaling $4.81 billion last year, as compared with $4.65 billion in 2010. The increase is comparable to the 1.7 percent decrease in charitable giving to religious organizations from 2010 to 2011, as reported by Giving USA: The Annual Report on Philanthropy (www.givingusareports.org).

?This is a very encouraging development,? said Dan Busby, ECFA president. ?It shows that even as difficult economic conditions persist, donors to ECFA-accredited ministries continue to live out their faith by practicing generosity in spite of adverse economic times.? It also shows ECFA is well positioned to help Christian organizations accomplish their missions through adherence to biblical standards, guidelines and practices.?

ECFA released its latest giving figures in part one of its third annual State of Giving Report (www.ecfa.org).? The initial phase of the 2012 report identified five areas in which ECFA member organizations reported double-digit percentage increases in giving: adoption (23.9 percent), pregnancy resource centers (22.2 percent), alcohol/drug rehabilitation (20.5 percent), youth ministries (13.2 percent) and rescue missions (10.9 percent).

Part one of the State of Giving Report covers giving activity toward one portion of ECFA membership. The full report on the giving activity toward all ECFA members is scheduled for release in October 2012.

A podcast on ?Charitable Giving Higher for ECFA Members <http://members>? is available at www.ecfa.podbean.com/feed.

ECFA, founded in 1979, provides accreditation to leading Christian nonprofit organizations that faithfully demonstrate compliance with the ECFA standards pertaining to financial accountability, fund-raising and board governance. For more information about ECFA, including information about accreditation and a listing of ECFA-accredited members, visit www.ecfa.org or call 1-800-323-9473.

Source: http://churchexecutive.com/archives/charitable-giving-higher-for-ecfa-members

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Mixed Families Corner Cafe -- *NEW* Message Board - Baby Corner

Exercise Toys to Help Baby Learn to Walk
Like many developments and milestones your baby will experience, learning to crawl and walk is probably best aided by Mother Nature. Most babies crawl before they walk, and the muscles they strengthen while doing so will help them later get to their feet

Summer Date Night Ideas for Mom and Dad
Sometimes it's easy to forget before you were three or more, a family, you were a couple! That relationship needs tending and care to stay strong and one way to do that is to invest time in special moments that build bonding memories for you two.

Stay at Home Dads: Not Just Mr. Mom Anymore!
Many fathers are part of a growing group that choose to stay home and care for their families. The numbers of such men are definitely on the rise. In 2001 81,000 men were stay at home parents. By 2011, those numbers had swelled to 176,000 or from 1.6 perc

Tips for Traveling With Your Toddler
If you plan to travel this summer, you've probably given some thought to how you will entertain your toddler while en route, or even during down times at your favorite vacation spot.

Ways to Manage Labor Pain

Source: http://www.thebabycorner.com/boards/corner-cafe-*new*-524/mixed-families-402550

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Air Ambulance Medicare Coverage: The Basics | Jet Charter Spain

Air Ambulance Medicare Coverage: The Basics

Published by Travel-and-Leisure:Charter-Jets Articles from EzineArticles.com on July 27, 2012 in Uncategorized.

Medicare might cover air ambulance and medical flights in certain situations. Learn about important benefits, coverage, claims, non-emergency flights, financial responsibility, and limitations.

Source: http://www.spainjetcharter.com/2012/07/air-ambulance-medicare-coverage-the-basics/

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The new BMW C evolution e-scooter | BMW MOTORCYCLES OF ...

Following the BMW Group?s sustainability strategy, BMW Motorrad aspires to consistently pursue electromobility at this early stage, especially in the urban environment. In a similar way to BMW i in the automotive division of the BMW Group, BMW Motorrad?s accelerated development of single-track mobility likewise stands for visionary vehicle concepts and mobility services ? as well as inspiring design and a new premium philosophy clearly defined by sustainability across the entire value creation chain.

BMW Motorrad will thus be launching an appropriate premium product on the market in the foreseeable future. The concept vehicle E-Scooter was presented at the BMW Motorrad Innovation Day 2011 as the first development stage in this direction. Due to their limited performance and range, purely electrically powered scooters have been suitable almost solely for inner-city use with a restricted range of operation up to now. With its sustainable technological solutions, however, the concept vehicle BMW E-Scooter already shows a significantly extended range of operation. Shortly after this, the second development stage saw its premiere at the IAA in Frankfurt: the design study of an e-scooter made by BMW Motorrad ? BMW Concept e. This embodies the aesthetic vision of an electrically powered scooter.

The third development stage now follows with the ?C evolution?: BMW Motorrad presents the near-production prototype of an e-scooter as it might soon go on the market. Since it was conceived as a future-oriented vehicle for commuting between the urban periphery and the city centre, there were two particular requirements for its development: performance figures comparable to those of a maxi scooter with a combustion engine and a long range in realistic conditions of use.

With its deployment of five fully ridable ?C evolution? scooters, BMW Motorrad has extended its experience in the field of e-mobility with single-track vehicles and continues to expand its expertise in this segment. BMW Motorrad is also making use of a number of events in Europe to further raise the profile and promote acceptance of single-track electrically powered vehicles, thereby preparing the market for such a vehicle with a view to launching a serial production model. In this pilot phase, the vehicles are being operated in real conditions of use and within areas which reflect their intended environment. The aim here is also to explore the infrastructure, such as establishing a network of e-mobility providers which might include vehicle rental companies and car-sharing firms.

The highlights at a glance:

? Innovative electric drive via drivetrain swing arm with liquid-cooled alternator, tooth belt and planetary gear.

? 11 kW continuous output (homologation according to ECE R85) and 35 kW peak output.

? 120 km/h max. speed.

? High range of up to 100 kilometres due to large battery capacity.

? High-voltage battery with high capacity (8 kWh) and innovative air cooling.

? Intelligent recuperation in coasting mode and when braking.

? Short charging times.

? Synergy effects with BMW automobiles and electrical safety
to car standards.

? Hybrid chassis with agile handling due to low centre of gravity.

? Powerful braking system with ABS.

? Lightweight Metzeler Feelgreen tyres.

? Multifunctional TFT instrument cluster and LED daytime running light.

? Innovative colour concept and design

2. Technology and design.

Electro-performance at the level of a combustion engine.

With 11 kW continuous output (homologation according to ECE R85 to determine motor outputs) and 35 kW peak output, the ?C evolution? has a powerful motor and provides a high level of riding fun. The top speed is electronically limited to 120 km/h. The scooter supremely handles motorway riding and overtaking ? even with a passenger. It is also capable of effortless hill starts on steep slopes with a pillion passenger. In terms of acceleration from 0 to 60 km/h, it comfortably holds its own against current maxi scooters a capacity of 600 cc or more.

Compared to conventional combustion engines, the electric drive of the ?C evolution? also offers significant advantages at low speeds in particular. Thanks to elaborate power electronics settings, the alternator offers the rider an instant, spontaneous response. There are no delays in torque build-up at all as are typical in combustion engines due to the clutch engaging and disengaging.

?

High range of up to 100 kilometres due to large battery capacity.

At 8 kWh, the storage capacity of the battery is extremely generous and ensures a range of up to 100 kilometres. This means that realistic zero-emissions riding in the big city and in urban environments is no problem at all. As in other areas, BMW Motorrad has been able to draw on synergy effects with BMW automobiles here. For example, the ?C evolution? uses the same lithium-ion storage modules as are installed in the BMW i3. Here, developers paid particular attention to the quality and service life of the storage modules so as to ensure that the range is preserved even after many years of service life and in very cold weather.

One of the main technological challenges was optimum cooling of the high-voltage battery. On the one hand it was necessary to avoid excessively low temperatures due to the fact that the interior resistance of the cells is heavily increased as a result, thereby reducing power. On the other hand, the temperatures must not be too high since this would impair the lifetime of the cells.

While in electrically powered cars a cooling agent is normally used to cool the battery, air cooling is used in the ?C evolution? in order to save space and weight. The heat of the high-voltage battery is dissipated by means of an aerodynamically optimised cooling air shaft at the centre of the battery casing through which there is a constant flow of air. To ensure optimum heat dissipation, the battery base has longitudinally arranged cooling ribs.

However, the battery casing in die-cast aluminium not only holds the cells with their special architecture but also the entire electronics unit for monitoring the cells. It also acts as a load-bearing chassis element.

The power electronics for the electric drive is installed behind the battery casing. This not only takes care of controlling the alternator within a range of 100 to 150 volts but also responds to rider commands, for example by detecting the position of the throttle grip. The system also processes information from the brake system and decides whether energy should be recuperated and how much recuperation torque is to be applied to the rear wheel if required.

Innovative electric drive via drivetrain swing arm with liquid-cooled alternator, tooth belt and planetary gear.

The ?C evolution? is powered via a drivetrain swing arm. The alternator is positioned behind the battery casing and integrated in the swing arm. Due to the proximity of the alternator output shaft and the swing arm axle, the moment of inertia around the swing arm centre of rotation is minimised. This also provides optimum suspension/damper settings and a sensitive response.

The secondary drive is via a tooth belt from the alternator to the rear belt pulley on the output shaft. From here, power is transferred to the rear wheel via a planetary gear. The total gear reduction is 1:8.4, while the maximum rotational speed of the alternator is 10,000 rpm.

The alternator and power electronics are liquid-cooled.

?

Intelligent recuperation in coasting mode and when braking.

BMW Motorrad has conducted lengthy road tests to develop a form of recuperation which is unique in single-track vehicles and very transparent for the rider. The ?C evolution? is ridden in exactly the same way as a scooter with combustion engine. The rider does not have to actively initiate energy recuperation since the vehicle does this automatically whenever possible.

For example, energy recuperation commences when the throttle grip is closed and ? as in a combustion engine ? the generator function of the alternator creates drag torque which depends on the degree of recuperation. The drag torque generated by the alternator is like the familiar ?engine brake? that takes effect when removing the accelerator with a combustion engine.

Recuperation is also carried out during braking, converting kinetic energy to electrical energy so as to charge the battery. Here, a system of sensors is used to tap into the brake pressure on the front and rear wheel brake. When the power electronics detects that the rider is braking, the alternator builds up drag torque, thereby supporting the brake manoeuvre and recuperating energy. By regaining energy during coasting or braking, the range of the two-wheeler can be extended by 10 to 20 per cent, depending on riding style.

?

Short charge times and charging technology based on the car model.

The battery is charged via the integrated charging device, either at a regular household socket or a charging station. When the battery is completely flat, charging time ideally lasts less than three hours.

The car-type charging socket ? currently the only one of its kind in an electrically powered two-wheel vehicle ? is located behind a cover in the footwell at front left. The charge cable required is housed in a storage compartment on the right-hand side of the footwell. It is fitted with a mains plug to fit the respective national system.

The fact that the charge socket is the identical to the car standard has the advantage that the ?C evolution? can be charged at charge stations throughout the USA with integrated charge cable and standardised plug, for example. This technology is not currently offered by any other electrically powered two-wheeler. Charge cables with the relevant specifications will be offered in later serial production models so that they can be charged at stations in Europe.

Synergy effects with BMW automobiles and technical safety according to car standards.

As a company of the BMW Group, BMW Motorrad is one of the very few motorcycle manufacturers to be able to draw on in-house experience and expertise in the automobile field in the development of electrically powered vehicles. The synergies available here range from the use of the same technical components through to high-voltage technology and the associated safety requirements in terms of cables, plugs, battery electronics and safety shutdown.

This also includes the insulation monitoring device, the high-voltage indicator, the high-voltage distributor and the DC-DC converter which serves to convert high voltage to low voltage so as to feed the 12-volt vehicle power system and the control units.

High-voltage safety standards established by leading automobile manufacturers (> 60 volt direct current) and functional reliability have been applied to an electrically powered two-wheel vehicle for the first time here. Development in accordance with ISO 26262 is currently unique among (electrically powered) two-wheel vehicles and ensures that all functionally relevant features are developed in accordance with standards and reflect the current state of science and technology.

?

Hybrid chassis with agile handling due to low centre of gravity.

Unlike existing maxi scooters with combustion engine, the ?C evolution? does not have a main frame in the usual sense. The aim of chassis development for the ?C evolution? was to combine the best possible directional stability at high motorway speeds with agile handling in urban traffic. Engineers also set out to make full use of the advantages provided by an extremely low centre of gravity ? due to the low position of the battery. For this reason, chassis design is based on a torsionally stiff hybrid composite structure made up of a load-bearing, torsionally rigid battery case made of cast light alloy with integrated mounting for the single-sided drivetrain swing arm. Bolted onto this are the steering head support and the rear frame in steel tubing. In urban traffic in particular, the riding experience is characterised by extremely light handling and excellent slow-running properties. The weight of the vehicle is at a level comparable to maxi scooters with a combustion engine.

Wheel control as well as suspension and damping is taken care of at the front by an upside-down fork with a generous fixed fork tube diameter of 40 mm. The rear wheel suspension consists of a single-sided drivetrain swing arm. At the rear, suspension and damping are performed by a spring strut placed on the left-hand side, directly controlled and adjustable at the spring mount. The spring travel is 115 millimetres at front and rear, thereby offering a high degree of comfort.

?

Lightweight tyres to reduce rolling resistance.

At the front, the ?C evolution? rolls on a 5-spoke light alloy die-cast wheel, size 3.5 x 15 inches, while the size of the rear wheel is 4.5 x 15 inches.

In order to reduce rolling friction and thus make the most efficient use of the electrical energy stored, the ?C evolution? has lightweight tyres. These are special Metzeler Feelgreen tyres with optimised rolling resistance in the sizes 120/70 R15 at front and 160/60 R15 at rear. The tyres were developed with two clear aims in mind: environmental compatibility and high efficiency based on minimising rolling resistance, at the same time providing a higher mileage. Rolling resistance was reduced by 25 per cent as compared to the Metzeler Feelfree tyres. At the same time, the Metzeler Feelgreen tyres are very light, with reduced hysteresis response and a new tread with specially created tread grooves for optimised rolling resistance.

Powerful braking system with ABS.

At the front, a twin disc brake system with 270-millimetre diameter and

2-piston floating calipers ensures powerful, safe deceleration. At the rear there is a single disc system also with a diameter of 270 millimetres and 2-piston floating caliper. In order to achieve a stable pressure point and optimum controllability, all brake lines are steel-wrapped.

A high level of active safety is ensured by the BMW Motorrad ABS. Weighing just 700 grams and extremely small in size, the Bosch 9M dual channel ABS allows separate regulation of the two brake cycles for front and rear brakes. However, the ABS software has also been adapted so as to control the recuperation process in line with the specific requirements of the ?C evolution?. As in the BMW Motorrad maxi scooters C 600 Sport and C 650 GT, the hold brake is activated automatically when the side stand is folded out.

?

Multifunctional instrument cluster and LED daytime running light.

The instrument panel of the ?C evolution? has a large, easily legible TFT display which is conceptually based on that of the BMW i3. It has the obligatory speed display as well as offering a wealth of other information. This includes display of the battery charge state (SOC = State of Charge) and the energy balance. The latter is displayed by means of a progress bar, indicating to the rider whether energy is currently being converted into forward propulsion or being? recuperated. This information helps the rider in his efforts to ride as efficiently as possible.

In addition to the familiar indicators, the instrument cluster of the ?C evolution? naturally features all the status displays required by law in electrically powered vehicles. This includes warning lamps to indicate a potential insulation error or power limitation in the event of overload (see ECE R 100).

The front lighting unit encompasses headlamps with high and low beam. The ?C evolution? also features a centrally located daytime running light. At the back there is a rear light in LED technology.

?

Innovative colour concept and design.

The ?C evolution? draws on the innovative styling of the BMW Motorrad family, offering a thrilling, inspiring design which arouses an emotional response to the new drive technology. As in other BMW motorcycles, the so-called split face runs across the upper trim section, giving the scooter a distinctive and dynamic front view.

BMW Motorrad design style is also reflected in the styling of the twin-tipped spoiler in the front trim and in a boomerang-shaped, aerodynamically formed floating panel in the side trim. The short, sporty rear will have a helmet compartment in the serial production model and emphasises the proactive character of the ?C evolution?.

The combined effect of the colour ?Light white? and the highlight colour ?Electric green? reflects the vehicle?s specific properties, such as maximum environmental compatibility, supreme dynamic performance and simple handling. What is more, the illuminating ?e? inscription on the two battery side trim elements and motor unit bear out the technical character of an electrically powered scooter.

for more information from BMW Blog CLICK HERE

Source: http://bmwmotorcyclesoftampabay.com/the-new-bmw-c-evolution-e-scooter/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-new-bmw-c-evolution-e-scooter

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Twitter bomb joke conviction overturned

1 hr.

Staff , Reuters

A British man who joked on Twitter that he would blow up an airport after it closed because of snow has had his conviction for sending a "menacing" message overturned in a landmark ruling for users of social media websites.

Paul Chambers, 28, had sent the message in what he called a moment of frustration at not being able to catch a flight from Doncaster Robin Hood airport.

He had later been arrested and sentenced but the High Court on Friday upheld his appeal against conviction.

Speaking outside the court afterwards, Chambers' lawyer John Cooper, who had argued it was wrong to associate the tweet with terrorism, said it was a milestone ruling.

"It's a very big decision both nationally and internationally for hundreds of thousands, if not millions of people who use Facebook and Twitter," he told the BBC.

"It means that if you intend to make a joke and if what you do is a joke, however bad a joke that is, you cannot be prosecuted," he added.

The case revolved around a tweet sent by Chambers to a friend in January 2010, which read: "Crap! Robin Hood Airport is closed. You've got a week and a bit to get your shit together, otherwise I'm blowing the airport sky high!"

Chambers said he sent the tweet to his 600 followers in a moment of frustration and never imagined it would be taken seriously.

"It was surreal. My world became something else," he said when asked how he felt when he was arrested.

Of Friday's ruling he added: "It's an important decision as far as social networks are concerned and as far as Twitter is concerned.

"It has established that there has to be an action that is menacing and is intended to be menacing."

Chambers' case gained the attention and support of thousands of Twitter users and several high-profile British comedians.

In Friday's High Court ruling, three judges headed by the Lord Chief Justice Lord Judge, allowed Chambers' appeal against a Crown Court judge's decision upholding the 2010 conviction.

They said: "If the person or persons who receive or read it, (the message) or may reasonably be expected to receive, or read it, would brush it aside as a silly joke, or a joke in bad taste, or empty bombastic or ridiculous banter, then it would be a contradiction in terms to describe it as a message of a menacing character."

-- reporting by Sophie Kirby

(c) Copyright Thomson Reuters 2012. Check for restrictions at: http://about.reuters.com/fulllegal.asp

Source: http://www.technolog.msnbc.msn.com/technology/technolog/twitter-bomb-joke-conviction-overturned-778148

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Quad Bike Hire: What You Really Have To Recognize Earlier than ...

Quad Cycling in Marlborough is changing into really popular with the locals and stag parties as well as catering for company days out! Paying consumers can pass off road in all sorts of terrain and throw themselves approximately in relative comfort with the fitting protection equipment and the best guideline! they're more strong than standard off highway motorcycles and feature computerized transmission to make it easier. In a brief house of time you'll change into a professional in the usage of these incredible machines. To me there are few finer issues than going hell for leather on a quad motorcycle on a pretty good day!

For people who intend on transporting their quads a couple of times a 12 months, condominium is sufficient. However such a lot ATV owners experience going places rather than their own backyard. To transport those automobiles to the required area, right kind trailer is needed. The scale and collection of bikes you have got determines your only option of trailer.

For young ones, the feat of driving a quad motorcycle in a guided tour will also be as enjoyable as riding a automotive for the first time. This is a a laugh and safe task as pace is not a factor. The youngest that may take part in this adventure recreation is 14 years old. Both thrilling and educational for young other people, these four wheeled monsters carry you to scenic locations with breathtaking sights. There's a lot to be informed whilst using quads and most studying is interrelated to protection in handling the vehicle. Discipline and the use of commonplace experience is applied to verify a a laugh but safe quad riding experience.

other a laugh thrills, one even together with a nice enjoyable jacuzzi afterwards. How completely superb is that for an interesting day out? Do move alongside and you are going to no longer be disappointed!

Craving for more action and adventure for your previous time? ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) using or quad cycling permits you to take a challenge on heading up muddy banks and steep dirt trails. Quad cycling could also be the brand new fun interest with a purpose to stay you without a doubt hooked.

Unlike most excessive adventure sports the place the process is done solo, this job is repeatedly performed in groups. It is the perfect adrenalin recreation that you can proportion with your circle of relatives and friends. Explore in combination, race with your buds, or simply enjoy a scenic and relaxed experience with the spouse and kids. It is the most productive weekend getaway that takes minimal making plans and preparation, but jam-packed with the best of adventure.

Among all outdoor adventures, it is likely one of the so much affordable. Prices for a quad motorbike excursion get started from $sixty five to $495 depending on the kind of adventure you're looking for. To benefit from the thrills, you want not even get your own gear. All protective equipment and naturally the quad is supplied for by the outfitter.

Usually, there is a trained instructor so as to lead the trek so the crowd can follow with the bumps and puddles. Once the talents have been mastered, the exciting experience thru acres of unspoiled land will begin. Terrains vary from woodland tracks to woodland paths and steep hills. The hiking path may also be reasonably a challenge but you are sure to benefit from the impressive scenery each venue offers.

Of course, briefing is done previous to the job to be sure that rules are to be followed for safety. Classes offered are typically for part an hour mini treks to an hour and a quarter of longer exploration. There are also on-your-own journey being introduced where you can experience through open fields, streams, wooded area and tracks completely on your own. Treks regularly run all over weekends of all the year despite the fact that there are quad trekking venues that are open all the way through weekdays. Costs vary depending at the bike rented and the trekking duration. Pre-reserving is really useful as some venues can best accommodate a most of six persons to head on a trek at a time.

Recreational enthusiasts be able of RVs with extra hauling house for ATVs in the again compartment. These are known as toy haulers and can run anyplace from ten grand to upwards of $60,000. While a double or quadruple trailer will suffice for most people, this particular option provides an all-inclusive option.

In case you are actually in search of a quad bike hire place, go to my new quad bike hire web site and compare prices today!

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New research confirms efficacy of transcranial magnetic stimulation for depression

New research confirms efficacy of transcranial magnetic stimulation for depression

Friday, July 27, 2012

In one of the first studies to look at transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in real-world clinical practice settings, researchers at Butler Hospital, along with colleagues across the U.S., confirmed that TMS is an effective treatment for patients with depression who are unable to find symptom relief through antidepressant medications. The study findings are published online in the June 11, 2012 edition of Depression and Anxiety in the Wiley Online Library.

Previous analysis of the efficacy of TMS has been provided through more than 30 published trials, yielding generally consistent results supporting the use of TMS to treat depression when medications aren't sufficient. "Those previous studies were key in laying the groundwork for the FDA to approve the first device for delivery of TMS as a treatment for depression in 2008," said Linda Carpenter, MD, lead author of the report and chief of the Mood Disorders Program and the Neuromodulation Clinic at Butler Hospital. "Naturalistic studies like ours, which provide scrutiny of real-life patient outcomes when TMS therapy is given in actual clinical practice settings, are the next step in further understanding the effectiveness of TMS. They are also important for informing healthcare policy, particularly in an era when difficult decisions must be made about allocation of scarce resources."

Carpenter explains that naturalistic studies differ from controlled clinical trials because they permit the inclusion of subjects with a wider range of symptomatology and comorbidity, whereas controlled clinical trials typically have more rigid criteria for inclusion. "As a multisite study collecting naturalistic outcomes from patients in clinics in various regions in the U.S., we were also able to capture effects that might arise from introducing a novel psychiatric treatment modality like TMS in non-research settings," said Carpenter. In all, the study confirms how well TMS works in diverse settings where TMS is administered to a real-life population of patients with depression that have not found relief through many other available treatments.

The published report summarized data collected from 42 clinical TMS practice sites in the US, and included outcomes from 307 patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) who had persistent symptoms despite the use of antidepressant medication. Change during TMS was assessed using both clinicians' ratings of overall depression severity and scores on patient self-report depression scales, which require the patient to rate the severity of each symptom on the same standardized scale at the end of each 2-week period. Rates for "response" and "remission" to TMS were calculated based on the same cut-off scores and conventions used for other clinical trials of antidepressant treatments. Fifty-eight percent positive response rate to TMS and 37 percent remission rate were observed.

"The patient outcomes we found in this study demonstrated a response rate similar to controlled clinical trial populations," said Dr. Carpenter, explaining that this new data validates TMS efficacy in treating depression for those who have failed to benefit from antidepressant medications. "Continued research and confirmation of the effectiveness of TMS is important for understanding its place in everyday psychiatric care and to support advocacy for insurance coverage of the treatment." Thanks in part to the advocacy efforts of Dr. Carpenter, TMS was recently approved for coverage by Medicare in New England, and it is also now covered by BCBSRI. "Next steps for TMS research involve enhancing our understanding of how to maintain positive response to TMS over time after the course of therapy ends and learning how to customize the treatment for patients using newer technologies, so TMS can help even more patients."

###

Women & Infants Hospital: http://www.womenandinfants.org

Thanks to Women & Infants Hospital for this article.

This press release was posted to serve as a topic for discussion. Please comment below. We try our best to only post press releases that are associated with peer reviewed scientific literature. Critical discussions of the research are appreciated. If you need help finding a link to the original article, please contact us on twitter or via e-mail.

This press release has been viewed 1595 time(s).

Source: http://www.labspaces.net/122115/New_research_confirms_efficacy_of_transcranial_magnetic_stimulation_for_depression_

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Microsoft Officially Admits The Surface Is Likely To - Business Insider

Microsoft executives have been understandably cagey about admitting that competing with its PC partners could damage the relationship with those partners.

Their public statements have indicated that all is hunky dory with Windows PC makers like Dell, HP, Lenovo. Bill Gates said that Microsoft's Surface was the "best of both worlds. You can have a rich eco-system of manufacturers and you can have a few signature devices," he recently said.

And Ballmer swore that Microsoft wasn't going to give itself some kind of financial advantage over its partners -- even though its charging PC makers quite a lot of money for the Windows operating system.

But finally, in it's annual report, the company stepped up and told the truth -- that Surface competes with PC makers and could really hurt Windows 8 sales.

"Our Surface devices will compete with products made by our OEM partners, which may affect their commitment to our platform," the company said in its 10-K filing to the SEC. If Windows 8 doesn't become popular enough, that could "make it more difficult to attract applications developers to our platforms," Microsoft also warned.

And while it was at it, Microsoft also admitted that Apple's was right.

"A competing vertically-integrated model, in which a single firm controls the software and hardware elements of a product and related services, has been successful with some consumer products such as personal computers, mobile phones, gaming consoles, and digital music players," Microsoft said in its report.

"We also offer vertically-integrated hardware and software products and services; however, our competitors have been in the market longer and in some cases have established significantly large user bases."

The filing was first noticed by Nick Wingfield at the New York Times.

Source: http://www.businessinsider.com/microsoft-oem-partners-2012-7

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7 Things You Never Knew About the Hooks Family Tree

Drawing of Warren Hooks (Courtesy Hooks Public Library)

Historical facts frequently get lost over time. But thanks to the extensive records kept at the genealogy section of the Hooks Public Library, I discovered some fascinating facts about the Hooks family tree and the small town?s humble beginnings.

1. What?s In A Name?

According to a manuscript written in 1986 titled ?Be What You Seem to Be? by H.A. Hooks, M.D., the Hooks family originated in Wales. Early records show that the family name was initially spelled ?Hooke,? but the ?e? was dropped when the family moved to the United States.

2. Across the Pond

Prior to relocating to America, the Hooke family moved to Ireland shortly after the bloody Royalist Insurrection of 1655. Weary of the injustices of European rule, they moved to the New World and landed in what is now North Carolina in 1657.

3. Last Will and Testament

Nearly two centuries later, William Hooks wrote his will on Aug. 7, 1820, which divided his property, slaves, belongings and wealth between his wife Dorcas; daughters Sarah, Polley, Morning, Smithery, and Nancy; and sons Blake, Warren and Robert. He signed his will with an ?X.? Of the three sons, Warren received the majority of his father?s property, including land, five slaves, a horse and other household items. Robert only received $1.

Mrs. Warren Hooks (Courtesy Hooks Public Library)

4. All My Children

Warren Hooks was born on Jan. 27, 1802 in Wayne County, North Carolina. He married Elizabeth Roberts and they had eight children, all of whom were born in Leighton, Alabama. Warren was also the legal guardian of three of his brother?s daughters.

5. Stranger in a Strange Land

Warren moved to Bowie County, Texas with his family and 91 slaves shortly after his youngest child was born in July 1845. The town of Hooks, named for Warren, was established in 1848.

6. Custom Built

The Hooks family owned a 5,000-acre plantation. After designing the plans himself and fashioning it after old colonial architecture, Warren had the original family home built with slave labor on Myrtle Springs Road. While lumber and many materials were shipped from New Orleans on the Red River, the bricks were made on site by slaves.

Warren Hooks home drawing (Courtesy the Hooks Public Library)

7. End of an Era

Warren Hooks died on Jan. 8, 1876. The Hooks home burned to the ground in December 1958.

Bonus Trivia

When the Hooks family came together in 1997 for a reunion, they received a letter from President Bill Clinton that read,

When families thrive and flourish, each generation better prepares the next to make its mark in the world. Your celebration is a reminder of the strength that comes from unity.?

Warren Hooks plantation home, around 1950 (Courtesy Hope Public Library)

Source: http://kkyr.com/hooks-family-tree/

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Squirrel Away Money While You Can (Free Money Finance)

The following is a guest post from Marotta Asset Management.

In 1985, Franco Modigliani, an economics professor at MIT, won the Nobel Prize for a simple technique that squirrels know intuitively from birth. You have to squirrel away some nuts during times of plenty so you can survive during times of scarcity.

Modigliani looked at the income and expenses of typical people over the life span. He found that household income was sometimes more than sufficient to meet expenses and that at other times money was tight. Preparation during these times of surplus help families avoid going into debt when they must increase their spending.

Modigliani divided the life cycle into four distinct phases:

• Before having children there is often a surplus of income.


• While raising and educating children, there is often a deficit when the family is spending more than they are earning.


• When children go out on their own, families often have a surplus again.


• In retirement the surplus is small if it is there at all.

Saving during the two surplus periods is crucial to financial well-being later in life. Before the children arrive, squirrel away some money. When the children leave home, you get one last chance to save for retirement.

Here are seven financial life lessons from Modigliani's analysis:

When you are starting out, don't try to duplicate your parent's lifestyle.

Most of today?s college graduates are ill prepared for the real world of financial responsibility. They never saw how their parents lived when they were first married and struggling. Consequently, they may base their after-school expectations on an upper-middle-class lifestyle.

If you are a young adult, you can't afford more house than your budget will allow. If you spend 50% of your lifestyle expenses on housing, you will not be able to live proportionally on the rest of your income. Too much house is one of the most common mistakes young people make.

It is as though we can't feel successful without immediately enjoying the lifestyle of our parents at the height of their careers. To decide how much house is enough, calculate what you can buy for 30% of your standard of living.

Save as much money as you can in your 20s

Early in your career, when the cost of basic needs is small, income often easily covers expenses, allowing the surplus to be used for savings, investment or added consumption. Many young people assume they are doing so well financially that they can simply spend their extra money on more stuff. They do not realize these years of plenty won't last.

During this period, save and invest up to 50% of your disposable income for future expenses. Fully fund Roth accounts, and fund 401(k) plans to take advantage of any employer match. Save 10% of your take-home pay for future large expenses. Put an additional 5 to 10% into long-term taxable savings.

This advice is especially important for those who delay marriage until they are in their 30s. Don't waste a decade of prime saving and investing. You owe it to yourself and your future family to store up nuts now.

Don't just save: invest

You can't afford to keep your money in cash or in a bank account earning very little interest because of inflation. If you had saved $100 in 1970, it would only have the buying power of $16.88 today. You need to earn a return that exceeds inflation. Fortunately, you can.

At 10% market returns, whatever you save and invest doubles every seven years. So $1 saved and invested at age 21 doubles eight times before age 70. At that rate of return $1 saved and invested grows to $128 in retirement. If you wait until age 49 to start, $1 saved and invested will double three times, growing to $8.

Although annual volatility is high, it decreases with a longer time horizon. Given a 50-year time horizon, the odds of your money experiencing a positive average market return are very good.

Put another way, for every seven years you delay starting to save and invest, you risk cutting in half your net worth in retirement.

Avoid debt while raising a family

Expenses multiply once children arrive. The one-bedroom apartment is replaced by a four-bedroom home with a mortgage. If expenses for food, clothing, medical, dental, clubs, camps and lessons aren't enough, children have their own set of endless desires. The average cost of raising a child to age 18 in 2012 dollars totals about $300,000. After a third of a million dollars in payments, the balloon payment comes at the end when college expenses are often financed through student loans and additional mortgages. During these years, many couples wish they had not spent their pre-child surplus.

Families find it challenging to live within their means during this phase of life. But you can live more simply in order to live debt free. The difference between middle income and multi-millionaire is a few hundred dollars a month in saving and investing.

Stop telling yourself you will get your finances in order later

The average American family runs their financial affairs in such a way that if they were a publicly traded company, their stock price would plummet, the business would go bankrupt and the people in the accounting department would be taken away in handcuffs.

You can?t postpone financial faithfulness any more than you can postpone marital faithfulness. Your habits set your financial DNA, and habits are simply habit forming.

Many people mistakenly believe that life comes in three stages: learning, working and recreation. They think that until they are toward the middle or end of the working stage of life, they don't need to worry about finances.

Everyone in America can save something. Whatever you save, the magic of compound interest produces incredible results. It is far preferable to know what you need to save than to arrive at retirement unprepared.

Get a retirement checkup before you turn 50

For most families, expenses drop significantly after children leave home. Although starting younger is ideal, these are the years when many families realize time is running out to prepare for their retirement and they seek professional financial advice. This period provides a second chance to save and secure a financially comfortable retirement.

If you are in this stage of life, you need to know exactly how much you must save to achieve a comfortable retirement. You don't have the luxury of guessing at the appropriate savings rate.

Know your safe withdrawal rate in retirement

Retirement ideally finds the family with income adequate to continue their usual lifestyle. With sufficient assets and good asset management, income from savings and investments, pensions and benefits should cover retirement expenses.

During retirement it is crucial to know what rate of withdrawal is safe. Spend too much and you will run out of money. Be too frugal and you needlessly put a damper on the years you might be traveling and gifting. You must have the right asset allocation to provide enough growth for a long and prosperous retirement but enough stability to weather market upheavals. This is another juncture that does not allow for guesswork.

The lessons to learn from Modigliani's work are simple: "Before the children arrive, squirrel away some money. When the children go out on their own you get one last chance to save for retirement!"

Source: http://www.freemoneyfinance.com/2012/07/squirrel-away-money-while-you-can.html

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