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Isn't gluttony a deadly sin?
Why is everyone so goddamn FAT?
Labels: deadly sins, giant cheeseburgers, gluttony, grotesque food
I have a question. Call it the question of the day.
I've been wondering about this for a long time now. Everyone's read the statistics, though as you may realize, I hate statistics and seldom quote them. But they do reflect a certain trend.
People are getting huge. I mean, HUGE. Sometimes I wonder where it's all coming from. In the past ten or twelve years, the population has ballooned to the point where half of us are too damn fat, and a third of us are way WAY too fat.
If it's only in the last ten years or so, what happened? As far as I can remember, back then everybody was obsessed with their weight. Everybody wanted to be thinner. There was diet book, after diet book, after diet book coming out and hitting the top of the best-seller list.
I had to ask myself: why keep buying these things, when you obviously can't follow them? Why the endless search for the Holy Grail of diets, the one that will take weight off and keep it off forever and evermore?
Meanwhile, in the midst of this best-sellerism – which still goes on today, only in a more scientific, theory-oriented way (can't eat carbs with protein, have to follow your blood type, primordial cave man diet, What would Jesus Do diet – presumably, consisting of loaves and fishes) – we're getting so damn fat, it's shooting past the upper limits of the scale.
You see this reflected in all those weight-oriented TV shows like Biggest Loser and whatever-the-rest-of-them-are (I don't watch them much, too painful). Shows that are seemingly unrelated, like Hoarders, give us examples of impoverished men and women who are somehow enormous, their bodies no longer in any kind of recognizable shape. Usually it comes out that they can't cook anything because there's no electricity – the rats have gnawed through the cables or something – so they live on McDonalds and throw the leftovers and wrappers all over the floor (which is nice for the rats).
I shouldn't have watched this show at all, I'm ashamed to admit it, but it was like a circus side show: once I fell into it, I couldn't get out. It was called Taboo and it explored the weird, weird, weird, weird things people do (including having sex with the Berlin Wall), always with some expert coming on to say "their behaviour falls within the realm of normal activity". One of these "normal" guys, somewhere in his 30s and living on disability, was probably close to 400 pounds. His "thing" was to dress up and act like an infant, goo-gooing, sucking things, toddling around in enormous fuzzy sleepers and being fed glop.
Being fed? His "caregiver", whom at first I thought was his mother, was probably at least 200 pounds heavier than the guy. Her body was just not in a human shape, at all. It was like a misshapen cookie that had melted in the oven, everything all over the place. When she stood, which was difficult for her, her stomach touched the floor, and her breasts reached past her knees. This was supermorbid obesity at its most shocking.
The woman had no upper teeth, and maybe that's a separate post because an awful lot of people on reality TV have no teeth. It's a related issue, maybe. Toothlessness may explain why this guy lives on baby food, but what about the adult diapers? Does she change them, and – no, we won't go there. It's just too horrific.
But let's turn to the more mundane examples of hugeness that we see every day. I just don't remember seeing this level of obesity in the past. I don't remember someone lumbering on the bus who weighs maybe 400 pounds, I mean a young guy in his twenties. And I can't help but think how on earth he's going to get to 40, or even 30.
There are theories. The weirdest one I saw involved wheat: there's a scientist out there who says the new strains of wheat are designed to make you fat. Supposedly, if you give up wheat, i.e. go gluten-free like many people do anyway, the excess tonnage will just drop off and stay off.
(Original McDonalds hamburger)
There are portion sizes: yes, my-oh-my! My husband and I like to go to Denny's, mainly because it's relatively cheap and they know how to cook an omelette. But every time we go to Denny's, we seem to see a family who are all of them huge: most heartbreakingly, even the small children who are encased in soft, puffy fat.
Look at the menu, and you'll see why. The Grand Slam has been replaced by a sort of grotesque Grand-Grand-Grand slam with four eggs and six sausages and God knows how many pancakes. Reminds me a bit of their bacon extravaganza, in which they offered such greasy delights as a bacon sundae.
If you're still hungry after being slammed, you can order deep-fried hush puppies (presumably, not the shoes) with ice cream and syrup for dipping. And Denny's is hardly alone. McDonalds Quarter Pounder is now a Third Pounder. Most people who go to McDonalds can't do math, so maybe they don't realize how much larger it is. Wendy's had a three-patty bacon cheeseburger which gave me chest pains just looking at the menu board.
Meantime, in spite of all the emphasis on fitness and going to the gym, people just don't, for the most part: they park as close to the mall as possible to avoid walking for two minutes. I wish I could find the cartoon, one of the best ones I've seen, in which a couple in a department store has the following conversation:
"Now let's see, where's that treadmill they have on sale?"
"It's way over on the other side of the store."
"Oh to hell with it then, let's forget it."
Never once seeing the irony.
We save steps. I'm a walker – it's the only consistent exercise I've ever done, but I've been at it for more than 20 years – and people are constantly trying to give me rides, even complete strangers. Needless to say, I tell them no. But there's something about walking. It's stigmatized. It's just not done. Even cycling is better, but still seen as something of a fruitcake activity around here, something they do in Stanley Park, not the suburbs where a car is the only way of getting around.
I get mowed down regularly, which says something about the car-oriented society that I believe has evolved around malls. I have learned to look obsessively over my left shoulder to avoid that dreaded, heedless right turn. They don't see me, so I have to see them to avoid ending up one inch thick on the pavement.
I get despairing sometimes, I really do. For the statistics aren't good. Fatness is still escalating. This makes me wonder: where have all the fat people come from? They must have been much thinner than this a decade ago.
God didn't just pull out a whole lot of enormous balloons and blow them up and launch them out there. Surely people have done this to themselves.
If the statistics have changed this alarmingly, it means that people who used to be normal weight are now increasingly overweight, or even obese. Women's clothing reflects this change. It seems everything I try on is stretchy – not just a little stretchy, but stretchy like chewing gum, so that it doesn't snap back and ends up like an exhausted rubber band
Not only that: sizes have changed. I've been fighting weight swings all my life, and in high school I often wore a Size 14 or 16.
Now I am sure I am fatter than I was then, and can wear a 10 or 12.
So what has happened? Can you guess? This is called "vanity sizing" , and it has been done to keep women from committing suicide over their appearance.
It was long ago that Oprah, having skinnied down alarmingly on some kind of powdered protein, suddenly proclaimed, "Diets don't work!". She seesawed up and down after that, then kind of settled where she is now, probably a good 200 pounds. She spent one show sitting in a chair and addressing her viewers about her weight. No narcissism there! Her personal trainer came on and said she had "unresolved issues", but Oprah has always maintained that having people like Dr. Phil on her show was just as good as therapy.
Be that as it may.
I have no doubt that the massively obese have "issues" beyond just trying to fit behind the wheel of a car. There is a strong connection between obesity and sexual abuse (as there is with any addictive behaviour). It's burying yourself, really. Not to mention lugging a huge burden around. The symbolism is very potent, and hands a clear victory to the abuser.
I've seen people come on talk shows who represent the Fat Acceptance Movement, and in every case they round up an expert (there must be a TV-related agency called Rent-an-Expert) who says obesity has no significant negative effect on health. Just as easily, one can find experts who tell us exactly the opposite. I'm sick of experts, myself.
I'm frightened of the escalation, because it hasn't topped out yet, and I wonder when it will. Obesity is fast becoming normalized, and we've learned to accept it as never before.
When I was a kid, we had a neighbour named Ruth. My mother didn't have friends so much as caseloads, so she befriended this woman along with the blind lady, the woman who was "barren" and could not have kids, and the lady with the hydrocephalic daughter. At my estimate, Ruth weighed somewhere between 250 and 300 pounds, but no more than that. She was considered huge, enormously obese, to the point that she seldom left the house. On the rare times when she did, people disapproved. They didn't really think she should be showing herself, and if she insisted on it, why didn't she wear a corset or something? For that was the age when even the thinnest women wore iron girdles to shape their bodies and keep things from moving.
Doesn't happen any more. We don't wear girdles, except for those awful Spanx things that cover you from neck to ankles and are supposedly "comfortable". And even though they claim "anyone" can wear them, "anyone" does not include a woman who weighs 400 pounds.
Will we ALL be obese in twenty years? Will people start exploding from the internal pressure (I have actually heard stories of skin splitting: and what happens when someone who has had a massive tummy-tuck gets fat again)? Will gastric bypasses, which often backfire (look at Carnie Wilson) become as routine as tonsillectomies used to be? Will we require significant mutilation and the risk of death to try to regain some semblance of a recognizable human shape?
Posted by Margaret Gunning at 10:06 AM 1 comment:
Labels: Carnie Wilson, Denny's, gastirc bypass, gluttony, health experts, inactivity, morbid obesity, obesity

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Yes, bat-eating spiders live everywhere in the world except Antarctica. About 90 percent of these invertebrates live in the warmer regions of the globe and include some web-building spider species such as the Argiope savignyl and a tarantula species Poecilotheria rufilata; both are known to capture and kill small bats. Some tropical orb-weaving spiders—with a leg span of 4 to 6 inches (10–15 centimeters)—catch bats in webs that can reach 5 feet (16.5 meters) in diameter. Still other spiders have been seen capturing and killing a small bat, such as the huntsman spider (Heteropoda ventoria) in India. But they are not the only creatures the spiders eat—some larger species have also been known to capture and eat fish, frogs, and even snakes and mice.


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NHL Stanley Cup: Kings 2 Games From Coronation
Kings' captain Dustin Brown's Game 2 winner put the Kings halfway to another Cup.
Watching the relentless style of the Los Angeles Kings makes you wonder why the Kings aren't going for a three-peat of the Stanley Cup rather than their second title in three years. The Kings have taken the first two games from the New York Rangers in overtime and double overtime. Both games played on the left coast saw Los Angeles come back from two goal deficits to force the extra ice time. They're the first team to come back from two goal deficits to win in three straight games. The first was the finale of the Western Conference Finals when they topped the Chicago Blackhawks.
While the Rangers tremendous speed has been their biggest asset in the series, the big-bodied Kings hit from beginning to end. And they just keep coming.
Saturday night the Rangers were hoping to bounce back from their Game 1 disappointment and it appeared they might just do that. Game 2 started out in much the same manner as Game 1 with the Rangers netting the first two goals. But things turned around in the third period with New York ahead 4-2.
The Kings' controversial third goal will be talked about for some time to come, but the aftermath was more frustrating for fans who saw the Rangers lose control of the game. It started when the Kings' Matt Greene shot the puck from the right point. Kings' winger Dwight King was a sandwich between goalie Henrik Lundqvist and defenseman Ryan McDonagh in the Rangers crease. Greene's shot hit King and got past Lundqvist for the goal. A two-goal lead was suddenly one and the shift in momentum was palpable.
Lundqvist immediately expressed his frustration to referee Brian O'Halloran, who signaled good goal. O'Halloran's two part explanation was the puck was already past Lundqvist when contact was made and the contact was initiated by McDonagh.1 There is currently no video review for goaltender interference, but that could change as a result of the impact of the Kings' goal. It was an odd no-call considering the Rangers Benoit Pouliot had gotten called for goaltender interference earlier in the game on a play that had less contact with the puck nowhere in sight.
The goal came within the first two minutes of third period and fired up the Kings' fan base. Just as they had in the first game and throughout this year's playoffs, the Kings took advantage of their opportunities. Former Ranger Marian Gaborik swept a loose puck in the slot past Lundqvist to tie the game at four apiece with a little over 12 minutes remaining in regulation.
After a scoreless first overtime – kept that way when Kings' goalie Jonathan Quick stopped the Rangers' Chris Kreider on a breakaway – Dustin Brown redirected Willie Mitchell's blast from the left point past Lundqvist for the game winner at 10:26 of the second extra session. Just like that the Kings are in command of the best of seven series.
Many in the media predicted the Kings would be tired entering the series after having gone the full seven games in their three previous series. The Western Conference semi-finals concluded with a Game 7 overtime. While the Kings may be tired, they don't look tired. In fact, it's the Rangers who appear to be more tired. The Rangers, particularly in Game 2, often fell to the ice without contact. Bad skates or tired legs?
Only five teams in the history of the Stanley Cup playoffs have come back from a 2-0 deficit to win the championship. The 2011 Boston Bruins and 2009 Pittsburgh Penguins rallied from two down to win the title. They're the only teams to do so in the last 40 years.
Rangers defenseman John Moore returned from a two game suspension for elbowing Montreal's Dale Weise in the Eastern Conference semi-finals. Defenseman Rafael Diaz was a healthy scratch. Dan Carcillo's 10 game suspension, for abusing an official, was reduced to six games and he could return for the fourth game of the series.
1 – sports.yahoo.com
Posted in Los Angeles Kings, New York Rangers, NHL, NHL playoffs, Uncategorized and tagged Alain Vigneault, Chris Kreider, Darryl Sutter, Drew Doughty, Dustin Brown, Henrik Lundqvist, Jonathan Quick, Justin Williams, Los Angeles Kings, Martin St. Louis, New York Rangers, Ryan McDonagh, Stanley Cup on June 8, 2014 by d4assignment. Leave a comment
NHL Stanley Cup Final – Kings vs. Rangers
The Stanley Cup champion. There can be only one!
When you think about Los Angeles sports teams, physical toughness isn't usually what comes to mind. The Magic Johnson-led Lakers couldn't handle the Larry Bird-led Celtics until the Lakers upped their physical game. The result was two more championships in 1985 and 1987. The LA Kings epitomize toughness and physicality.
On the other hand, when you think about New York City sports teams, physical and mental toughness is one of the first things that come to mind. Whether it's rebounding from 9/11 or Hurricane Sandy, New Yorkers and the residents of the Tri-State area are made of tough stuff. Against this backdrop of steely stoicism, you don't necessarily think about people being in touch with their emotional side. Yet the New York Rangers are fine representation for family and watching each other's backs.
The two biggest markets in sports are ready to clash in what could be an epic Stanley Cup Final. Major League Baseball saw the two cities duke it out four times, but the last World Series final between the Yankees and Dodgers was 1981. The Knicks and Lakers met in classic NBA finals in 1970, '72, and '73. The east and west coast powers have not met in football, which now stands as the only one of the four major sports where that is the case.
Beginning tonight, the Kings and Rangers will maneuver, coach, hit, shoot and pass the puck and kick- and glove-save it away for up to two weeks. When one team reaches that magical fourth victory in the best-of-seven series, the Stanley Cup will be wheeled out by white-glove clad men for the greatest celebration in modern sports.
LA Kings (Stanley Cup Victory – 2012; Runner up – 1993)
Don't let the words of Los Angeles Kings head coach Darryl Sutter fool you. He's trying to play the underdog. But his team, which is largely intact from when they won the Stanley Cup two years ago, is the clear favorite.
After playing three conference series, the last of which ended in a Game 7 overtime victory on Sunday night, will the Kings show any fatigue? In Game 1 of the Stanley Cup, that's not happening, at least from the outset when adrenaline takes over. The third period will be the true indicator of whether there is any lag from the Western conference finals.
The Kings are a beast that you better finish off when you have the chance. Their first round series with the San Jose Sharks saw the Kings fall behind three games to none. Four straight wins followed, including a 5-1 wipeout in Game 7.
The Anaheim Ducks looked like they would be the ones to knock the Kings off their throne when they erased a 2-0 deficit in games and won three straight. Forget about it…the Kings forced a Game 7 with a 2-1 victory at home and then dominated another seventh game on the road, 6-2.
Though not necessarily well played at times, the conference finals between the Kings and the defending champion Chicago Blackhawks was a classic. This time it was the Kings blowing a lead when the series appeared to be over. Back-to-back victories were earned by Chicago in Games 5, which went to double overtime, and in Game 6 which forced yet another seventh road game for LA. In their 21st playoff game of the year, the Kings' Alec Martinez got a fortuitous bounce off of Blackhawks' defenseman Nick Leddy, and the puck sailed past goalie Corey Crawford for the game winner.
NY Rangers (Stanley Cup Victories – 1928, 1933, 1940, 1994; Runner up – 1929, 1932, 1937, 1950, 1972, 1979)
No one expected the Rangers to reach the Stanley Cup final this year. There was no reason to expect it with the inconsistency that plagued the regular season or the powerless power play or their inability to score goals.
Then the trade deadline came and GM Glen Sather had a tough decision to make. Should he hold on to free-agent-to-be captain and spiritual leader, Ryan Callahan, or deal him so as not to lose out on any return if he walked after the season? Martin St. Louis was doing his own deliberating down in Tampa Bay. The 13-year veteran, possibly prompted by the decision of Lightning GM and Team Canada Executive Director Steve Yzerman to pass over his selection for the 2014 Canadian Olympic team, demanded a trade. He had one destination in mind, the New York Rangers, which would put him near his home in Connecticut.
On March 5, the Rangers sent Callahan, a first round draft pick, and a conditional first round pick to the Lightning for St. Louis and a pair of conditional picks. St. Louis managed just one goal and eight points in 19 games, and many wondered aloud if the 38-year old could handle playing in New York. But his teammates, especially friend and former Lightning teammate Brad Richards, knew better. The playoffs began and St. Louis started clicking.
The Rangers battled division rival Philadelphia before they squeaked out a 2-1 win in Game 7 at home. When they fell behind the Pittsburgh Penguins three games to one in the conference semi-finals, most pundits and fans started making their offseason plans. Then a tragic event seemed to turn things around. St. Louis' mother, France, died unexpectedly at the age of 63.
St. Louis and his family were embraced by the Rangers and a close team became even closer. The team, sparked by the play of St. Louis and goalie Henrik Lundqvist, won three straight games to capture the series. Like the Kings, the Rangers had won Game 7 on the road. The specialty units, especially the power play, had improved dramatically.
In the conference finals, the Rangers faced off against long-time "Original Six" rival, the Montreal Canadiens. The played their best game of the postseason in the Game 6 clincher, which saw Lundqvist and the Rangers win 1-0.
Head man Darryl Sutter is part of hockey royalty. Along with his brothers Duane, Brent, Brian, Ron, and Rich, he played in the NHL, and Brent's son Brandon is currently a member of the Pittsburgh Penguins. Prior to coming to LA, Sutter coached the Chicago Blackhawks, San Jose Sharks and Calgary Flames. He was behind the bench for the Flames team that went to the seventh game of the Stanley Cup finals with the Tampa Lightning in 2004. The Lightning, which included St. Louis and Richards, won the finale 2-1.
Sutter was also GM of the Flames and resigned as coach after the 2005-2006 season to concentrate on his front office position. He stepped down in the middle of the 2010-2011 season and was hired a little less than a year later to replace Terry Murray as the Kings' head coach. Sutter then won his first Stanley Cup when the Kings swept the New Jersey Devils in the 2012 final.
Alain Vigneault knows what it is like to get to the mountain top, but also how rough it is to come back down. The former defenseman played just 42 games over parts of two seasons in the NHL before going into coaching. After not finding success in parts of four seasons with Montreal, Vigneault was hired as the Vancouver Canucks' head man in 2006-2007. The Canucks finished with the best record in the division and/or NHL six times in the regular season, but made it to the finals just once. There they lost to the Boston Bruins in seven games after holding a 3 games to 2 lead. After being swept in the first round last year, the Canucks fired Vigneault, who basically swapped jobs with fellow fired coach John Tortorella.
The Goalies
Kings goaltender Jonathan Quick's resume shows a Stanley Cup championship, an Olympic Silver medal for Team USA (2010) and a second place finish in the Vezina Trophy voting, for the league's best goalie, in 2012. The Kings current playoff run in no way reflects the way they blew through opponents en route to the championship two years ago. That team went 16-4 in the playoffs and Quick held opponents to a 1.41 goals per game. He also stopped nearly 95% of the shots he faced. This year, Quick has a 2.86 goals-against-average (GAA) and the team has allowed many more shots on goal than the winning squad. The 28-yr old is at his best when he stays in the crease area and doesn't wander too much. He has a tendency to drop down too quickly at times, which can allow an opponent to roof the puck to beat him.1 http://forecaster.thehockeynews.com/hockeynews/hockey/player.php?5348
Rangers' goalie Henrik Lundqvist has won Gold and Silver Olympic medals representing his native Sweden, and won the 2012 Vezina Trophy, beating out Quick. He was the runner up last season. This is the 32-year old's first appearance in the Stanley Cup finals. After a rough start to the season, in which he was at times benched for back up Cam Talbot, Lundqvist was outstanding in the second half of the year and carried that level of play into the postseason. He has a 2.03 GAA and has stopped 92.8% of his opponent's shots. Lundqvist likes to play deep in the crease and has a strong glove hand. His style is used to take away low shots, so expect opponents to try to beat him in the upper part of the net.2 http://forecaster.thehockeynews.com/hockeynews/hockey/player.php?2585
The Defense
The Kings' Drew Doughty is arguably one of the best defensemen in hockey. He was the second overall pick in the 2008 NHL entry draft, following high-scorer Steven Stamkos. The Ontario native has scored 10 or more goals four times in his six-year career and is smooth as glass when handling the puck. He finished third in the Norris Trophy voting, for best defenseman, in 2012 when he collected a career-high 59 points. He added 16 points, including a tournament-high 12 assists, as the Kings won the Cup. The Rangers need to be aware of Doughty's tendency to pinch into the offensive zone. The durable 24-year old averaged better than 25 minutes of ice time per game during the regular season and upped that by two minutes in the playoffs.
The Rangers' Ryan McDonagh was the 12th overall pick by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2007 draft. That same year, the Rangers signed free agent center Scott Gomez to an awful seven-year, $51MM contract. After two mediocre seasons in the Big Apple, the Rangers were desperate to trade Gomez and the Canadiens were desperate for a top center. Gomez and Tom Pyatt headed to Montreal for three players, including McDonagh. Whether he knew what he had at the time or not, it turned out to be one of the best deals that Sather ever made. The soon-to-be 25-year old defenseman stepped up his offense this season and set career highs with 14 goals and 43 points, but it's his transition from offense to defense and stopping shooters in the defensive zone that makes McDonagh special.
The Snipers
Marian Gaborik knows what it's like to wear the red, white, and blue of the New York Rangers. He did so for three-plus seasons and scored 41 goals for NY two years ago. But his style of play was stifled under former head coach John Tortorella's "defense first" approach, and he was sent packing to Columbus for three current Rangers – Derick Brassard, John Moore, and Derek Dorsett. Gaborik missed half of this season due to injury and was dealt to the Kings at the trade deadline in March for two draft picks. Gaborik is now healthy again and has topped all playoff scorers with 12 goals, 10 of them at even strength. Many of "Gabby's" goals come from his ability to elude defensemen around the net.
The Rangers' Rick Nash was acquired from Columbus prior to the 2012-2013 season for three players and a first round pick. The hope was that he could combine with Gaborik to give the Rangers a pair of solid scoring lines. A player's strike/owner's lockout didn't help, but the experiment failed and the Rangers parted company with Gaborik. Nash was solid in his first year in New York with 21 goals and 42 points in 44 games. A concussion had a major impact on Nash earlier this year and he finished with just 39 points in 65 games. He also lacked playoff experience and postseason success, and the Rangers' fans let him have it when he went without a goal in the first two rounds this year. Nash finally got his offense going in the conference finals with three goals and a pair of assists. Just as importantly, he's been responsible in his own zone and has played a physical game.
The Prediction
The Kings have an experienced, playoff-tested squad that has just about seen and done it all this year. They find ways to win, not ways to lose. For that reason, the prediction here is the Kings in six.
Posted in Los Angeles Kings, New York Rangers, NHL, NHL playoffs, Uncategorized and tagged Alain Vigneault, Brad Richards, Darryl Sutter, Drew Doughty, Dustin Brown, Henrik Lundqvist, Jonathan Quick, Los Angeles Kings, Martin St. Louis, Mike Richards, New York Rangers, Ryan McDonagh, Stanley Cup on June 4, 2014 by d4assignment. Leave a comment
NHL: Teemu Selanne – The End of an Era
Teemu Selanne had a Hall of Fame NHL career he'll now reflect back on.
On May 16, 2014, the Teemu Selanne era came to an end when the Anaheim Ducks fell in an emotional Game 7 to the Los Angeles Kings, 6-2. Although the Kings had just won a spot in the NHL Western Conference semi-finals, the end of Selanne's career took everyone's attention over the King's victory.
After the end of the game, the Kings and Ducks players stayed on the ice and tapped their sticks in a salute to Selanne as he said his final farewell to the Anaheim crowd. While the 43-year old fell short of winning a second Stanley Cup, Selanne by no means fell short of putting together an impressive NHL career.
The sure-fire future Hall of Famer began his career playing for the Finnish junior league team, Jokerit. After spending three years in the development program, Selanne ended his junior career in 1987-1988 with a junior-A championship and an impressive 43 goals and 66 points in 33 games. 1 His notable performance sparked the interest of the Winnipeg Jets, who then selected Selanne tenth overall, in the 1988 NHL amateur draft.
After being drafted, Selanne continued playing in Finland with SM-Liiga until he was signed to a North American contract with the Jets in 1992. From there, he began an incredible twenty-one year NHL career. He played his first NHL game on October 6, 1992 against the Detroit Red Wings.
Nicknamed the "Finnish Flash" because of his speed and agility, Selanne quickly proved himself in his first few games in the NHL. The rookie collected his first career hat trick just five games into his professional career. He went on to score 76 goals, including four hat tricks and one four-goal game. 2 Selanne broke the National Hockey League record for most goals scored by a rookie, earning himself the Calder Memorial Trophy as the top freshman in the NHL.
He was also a first-time All-Star, and was chosen for the All-Star team another nine times over the course of his career. Though Winnipeg lost in the first round of the playoffs, Selanne collected six points in six games. He maintained consistent play throughout the next three years with the Jets, reaching 100 career goals in 1994, in only 130 NHL games. Only the New York Islanders' Mike Bossy was faster to reach that milestone.
Unfortunately, after that feat was accomplished, Selanne tore his Achilles tendon and was forced to sit out the last 33 games of the 1994 season. He finished with just 25 goals on the season. The 1994-1995 NHL lockout the following year caused Selanne to return back to his native Finland for half a season, where he played for Jokerit Helsinki-Finland and was named tournament All-Star when the team won the 1995 European Cup.
Once the lockout ended, Selanne returned to the Jets, but was traded halfway through the season to the Anaheim Mighty Ducks. Upon hearing of the trade, Selanne was apparently furious. According to the Seattle Times, he stormed out of practice and ripped the nameplate off from above his locker. He left Winnipeg Arena without talking to reporters. 3 Although it took time to adjust to the trade, Selanne later said that it was the best thing to happen to his career.
In his first stint with the Ducks (from the 1995-1996 season into the 2000-2001 season), Selanne scored 225 goals and had two 50+ goal seasons. His performance led to five All-Star appearances, chief among them the the 1998 All-Star game, where he became the first European to score a hat trick and to be voted Most Valuable Player. The 1998 season also saw Selanne win the inaugural Maurice "The Rocket" Richard Trophy for the league's highest goal scorer (47). 4
At the 2000-2001 trade deadline, Selanne was sent to the San Jose Sharks for two players and a draft choice. He fell just short of 30 goals the next two seasons and left the west coast for a free agent deal with the Colorado Avalanche. The 33-year old struggled for the better part of the season, scoring only 16 goals (and 16 assists) in 78 games. After failing to win a Cup in Colorado and being placed on the fourth line for most of the season, Selanne took the 2004-2005 lockout year off from hockey to recover and then came back with the Ducks for the 2005-2006 season.
A revitalized Selanne scored 40 or more goals for two straight seasons and notched his 1,000th career point. He also joined Jari Kurri as the only Finnish-born players to score 500 goals, when he accomplished that feat in 2006. Selanne than took part in what every NHL player dreams of: a Stanley Cup championship. The 2007 Ducks defeated the Ottawa Senators for the franchise's first title. After 14 seasons and a Stanley Cup win, Selanne contemplated retirement annually, but continued to play with the Ducks for another seven seasons. He finally decided that the 21st season of his career would be his last in the NHL.
The 43-year old Selanne, a fan favorite in Anaheim, received a standing ovation and the first, second, and third star in his final regular season game against the Avalanche. The Ducks organization later announced that Selanne's number 8 would be the first number retired by the franchise.
Selanne's illustrious career wasn't limited to his NHL accomplishments. Internationally, the Finn played in six Olympic games and holds the records for most points scored in the Olympics. He is also the oldest player to medal in Olympic Ice Hockey after he picked up a bronze medal this past winter at age 43.
Outside of hockey, Selanne is a collector of cars and has entered the World Rally Championship two times. He is also the owner of a Laguna Beach restaurant and the previous owner of four establishments in Finland. In his native country, he is the focus of a biographical film, "Sel8nne", which looks at his life in and out of the NHL.
And because Teemu Selanne is apparently capable of doing just about everything, he was a kindergarten teacher before he began his hockey career.
Oh, and in case anyone was wondering, he was also voted Sexiest Man Alive in Finland by the magazine "Eeva." 5. Way to go, Teemu. That's the life of a legend.
1 – wikipedia.org
2 – nhl.com
3 – seattletimes.nwsource.com
4 – ocregister.com
5 – localemagazine.com
Posted in Anaheim Ducks, NHL, NHL playoffs, Uncategorized and tagged Anaheim Ducks, Finland, Jari Kurri, Maurice The Rocket Richard Trophy, NHL, Scott Niedermayer, Stanley Cup, Teemu Selanne on June 4, 2014 by allijbaker. Leave a comment
Spirit of St. Louis Propels New York Rangers
Martin St. Louis celebrates his OT winner (Courtesy of Getty Images)
Sunday night, Alex Galchenyuk came within a millimeter of evening up the NHL Eastern Conference Finals at two games apiece. He had already been credited with the game winner, after the puck pin-balled off of of him and past goalie Henrik Lundqvist, in Game 3. This time, however, the puck rang off the crossbar and deflected harmlessly away. The game went to overtime, where the Rangers' Martin St. Louis snipered a shot over the left shoulder of rookie goalie Dustin Tokarski for a 3-2 win and a three games to one lead for the Rangers in the best of seven series
It's been well documented by now that St. Louis' mother passed away prior to Game 5 of the conference semifinals with he Pittsburgh Penguins. From that moment on, St. Louis seemingly elevated his game as his teammates embraced him and his family as if France St. Louis was related to all of them.
After a Game 5 victory in Pittsburgh, the Rangers returned home to try to even the series with the Penguins. St. Louis was accompanied by his grieving father and sister. The Rangers' diminutive winger with a big heart scored the game's first goal and in doing so, ignited the Madison Square Garden crowd. The Rangers won 3-1 and St. Louis was named first star of the game.
Alex Galchenyuk scores Game 3 winner (Courtesy of USA today)
The Rangers edged the Pens 2-1 in the finale, with St. Louis assisting on good friend Brad Richard's go ahead goal. Acquired at the trade deadline for popular captain, Ryan Callahan, St. Louis has had six points (three goals and three assists) in the last five playoff games. His six goals this postseason is the sixth best among all players.
Sunday night's Game 4 was crucial for both teams in the series. The game was rough, rugged, and chippy after the thrown elbows and shoved linesman of Game 3. Montreal's P.K. Subban scored a third period power play goal that erased a 2-1 Rangers' lead. Then Galchenyuk found himself alone at the side of the left circle and came that close to erasing the series lead with the shot heard 'round the Garden.
Six minutes into overtime, Richards dug the puck out of the boards and flipped it Carl Hagelin. The Swedish-born winger found St. Louis all alone in the right circle. The shot made by St. Louis could only be made by a player with his type of elite offensive skills. He got the puck on the tape of his stick blade, skated through the right circle and put the puck between the narrow opening above Tokarski's left shoulder and the crossbar.
Game over.
Most of us have gone through what St. Louis and his family are in the midst of weathering. From personal experience, I know how difficult it is to balance the loss of a parent and going to work every day – ; trying to keep your life as balanced and normal as possible. I can't imagine what it's like to do that in front a packed, frenzied arena. It makes St. Louis' play all the more remarkable.
Montreal goalie Carey Price skated for the second day in a row on Tuesday and was in full uniform. But coach Michel Therrien insisted Price would not be available in the conference finals.
Rangers center Derek Stepan skated with his squad and could return Tuesday for Game 5. Former teammate Brandon Prust caught Stepan with an elbow in Game 4, breaking the Rangers' jaw. Prust received a two game suspension for the hit.
Posted in Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers, NHL, NHL playoffs, Uncategorized and tagged Brad Richards, Carey Price, Dustin Tokarski, Henrik Lundqvist, Martin St. Louis, Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers, NHL Playoffs, P.K. Subban, Stanley Cup on May 27, 2014 by d4assignment. Leave a comment
2014 NHL PLAYOFFS: BLUES VS. BLACKHAWKS
Ryan Miller must find his game if the St. Louis Blues are to have a chance at winning the Stanley Cup.
Fans in St. Louis were probably singing the blues lately, as their Blues ended their regular season with a six-game losing streak. One of the preseason favorites to win the Stanley Cup, the Blues had an excellent regular season as they were among the National Hockey League's best teams both offensively and defensively. Injuries, however, began to take their toll in the stretch run of the season. Vladimir Tarasenko (broken thumb) and David Backes
(foot) will be available for a Game 1 showdown with division rival and the defending champion Chicago Blackhawks. T.J. Oshie will be unavailable. Patrik Berglund (upper body) is also unavailable.
188 goals against (3rd)
85.7 PK% (7th)
Alexander Steen led the way in scoring for the Blues with 33 goals and 62 points in 68 games. If not for missing 14 games, Steen likely would have posted his first career 40-goal season. Oshie amassed 60 points in 70 games while Backes scored 57 points in 74 games. In addition to his offensive contributions, Backes was third in the NHL with 273 hits. Youngsters Tarasenko (43 points) and Jaden Schwartz (56 points) rounded out the Blues' scoring depth.
In addition to Backes, Brenden Morrow and Steve Ott were also physical forwards. Center Derek Roy provides the blues with depth down the middle and Sobotka won 61.9% of his faceoffs this season. Up front, the Blues have skill, grit, and two-way players in what may be the most balanced collection of forwards in the NHL.
Alex Pietrangelo (51 points) and Jay Bouwmeester (37 points) form what is arguably the NHL's best defensive pairing. Pietrangelo averaged 25 minutes of ice time per game. Both are strong defensively and generate offense with their skating and their quick puck movement. Had Bouwmeester scored three more points, the Blues would have had three 40-point defensemen, as Kevin Shattenkirk notched 45 points this season. The Blues have plenty of experience on the blue line, with stay-at-home defenseman Barret Jackman, Carlo Colaiacovo and Jordan Leopold.
Although goaltender Jaroslav Halak was solid, the Blues traded him at the deadline to the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for Ott and goaltender Ryan Miller. Despite having virtually no defensive support with the Sabres, Miller looked like a Vezina candidate. Miller is an elite goaltender who conceivably puts a talented Blues team over the top in their quest for the Cup. Miller had a nice start in his first few games with the Blues, but struggled along with the team in their season-ending six-game losing streak. The Blues are counting on Miller to quickly regain his top form in order to have a chance against a tough Chicago squad.
261 goals for (2nd)
Just as the Blues have their captain (Backes) returning for game one, so do the Blackhawks. Captain Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane will be playing in Game 1. Surprisingly, these young superstars were not the team's leading scorer, as Patrick Sharp amassed 34 goals and 78 points in 82 games. Kane registered 69 points in 69 games while Toews had 68 in 76 games.
Versatile winger Brandon Saad played on a line with Toews and Sharp at times this season. Saad is a very underrated player who can play any forward position and contribute on any line. Saad's versatility gives the Blackhawks more flexibility to juggle their lines or possibly stack the top line with a Sharp/Toews/Kane trio. Veteran Marian Hossa is still going strong, having scored 30 goals and 60 points this season. When fully healthy, the Blackhawks possess perhaps the best offensive team in the NHL.
Chicago has an experienced core on the blue line with the likes of Michal Rozsival, Brent Seabrook and Johnny Oduya, but the defense begins and ends with Duncan Keith. Keith is a superb two-way defenseman whose improved defensive play tends to be overshadowed by his brilliant puck distribution. Keith's 61 points was second among NHL defenseman, trailing only the Ottawa Senators' Erik Karlsson (74 points). The ability of Keith and Nick Leddy to generate an attack in transition is the engine that makes the Blackhawks' offense run.
Although not an elite goaltender by any stretch of the imagination, Corey Crawford is solid and has stretches where he plays like an elite goalie. Crawford was 32-16-10 this season with a 2.26 GAA, a .917 SV% and two shutouts.
The Blues will be worthy of advancing to the next round if they defeat the Blackhawks, especially with the injuries they've had to deal with. While waiting for the rest of their key players to return, Miller must return to the form he showed earlier this season with the Sabres.
This series has the potential to be the best first-round match up in either conference. With the Blues' depleted squad, the Blackhawks have the advantage in the early going. They'll need Crawford to be on top of his game and not give that advantage away. Look for this to be a hard-fought seven-game series, and do not be surprised to see the Blues come out on top despite their recent play.
Posted in Chicago Blackhawks, NHL, NHL playoffs, St. Louis Blues and tagged Chicago Blackhawks, Corey Crawford, David Backes, Jonathan Toews, NHL Playoffs, Patrick Kane, Patrick Sharp, Ryan Miller, St. Louis Blues, Stanley Cup, T.J. Oshie on April 17, 2014 by d4assignment. Leave a comment
2014 NHL PLAYOFFS: PENGUINS VS. BLUE JACKETS
Still just 26-years of age, Sidney Crosby has 105 points in 82 career playoff games.
The Pittsburgh Penguins will showcase their offensive talent as they face the Columbus Blue Jackets in the National Hockey League playoffs. Led by Sidney Crosby, the Penguins were one of the top offensive teams in the league this season. Crosby racked up an NHL-best 104 points in 80 games to win the scoring title (nobody else even reached 90 points) and reached 100-plus points for the fifth time in his career. Crosby led the league in assists (68) and points while finishing third in faceoff wins.
23.4 PP% (1st)
Despite losing Pascal Dupuis to a season-ending injury, Evgeni Malkin missing 22 games andKris Letang missing 10 weeks due to a stroke, the Penguins were still among league leaders in goals scored. Malkin notched 72 points in only 60 games, but may be unavailable for the start of the series. After Letang suffered a stroke, there were fears as to whether or not he would ever play again. Fortunately for Letang, he played the final games of the regular season without incident.
Although Malkin may be unavailable for the start of the series, the Penguins still possess plenty of firepower up front. Chris Kunitz scored 35 goals and 68 points in 78 games this season. James Neal scored 27 goals and 61 points in 59 games and Jussi Jokinen scored 21 goals and 57 points in 81 games. During Malkin's absence, Brandon Sutter showed the ability to chip in offensively. Letang – 22 points – was limited to 37 games this season, but Matt Niskanenpicked up the slack offensively, posting 10 goals and 46 points in 81 games. A healthy Letang will only add to the Penguins' great firepower.
Marc-Andre Fleury went 39-18-5 with a 2.37 GAA, .915 SV% and five shutouts this season. This is the fourth consecutive season in which he posted a sub-2.40 GAA. Fleury is one of the best goaltenders in the NHL when he is on top of his game. However, he suffered through postseason struggles in recent years. If the Penguins are to make a deep run, Fleury will have to be sharp.
Blue Jackets fans had to be thrilled to finally witness the breakout year of Ryan Johansen. He led the team in goals (33) and points (63) in 82 games. Johansen is an excellent puck handler who is unafraid to drive to the net and he possesses a good shot. This long-awaited breakout may be just the beginning. In terms of talent, the Blue Jackets simply do not match up with the Penguins; however, if they are able to limit the production of the Crosby line and get an excellent performance from Johansen, they may have a chance.
Defenseman James Wisniewski had another strong season for the Jackets, scoring 51 points in 75 games. Johansen and Wisniewski were the only Blue Jackets to post 50-plus points. Brandon Dubinsky and Cam Atkinson were the only others to reach 40-plus. Sergei Bobrovsky went 32-20-5 this season with a 2.38 GAA, .923 SV% and five shutouts. Bobrovsky has been nothing short of spectacular in his time with the Blue Jackets, and he must continue to play that well for his team to have any chance to upset the Penguins.
General expectations for this series favor a victory by the Penguins. The reality is that the Blue Jackets do not possess the collective star power the Penguins have up front. This will likely be a very short series, unless the Blue Jackets can grind out 1-0 or 2-1 victories. The Blue Jackets will not be scoring four or five goals in a game unless Fleury struggles as he has in recent years.
Posted in Columbus Blue Jackets, NHL, NHL playoffs, Pittsburgh Penguins, Uncategorized and tagged Columbus Blue Jackets, Evgeni Malkin, Marc-Andre Fleury, NHL, NHL Playoffs, Pittsburgh Penguins, Ryan Johansen, Sergei Bobrovsky, Sidney Crosby, Stanley Cup on April 16, 2014 by d4assignment. Leave a comment
2014 NHL PLAYOFFS: LIGHTNING VS. CANADIENS
With 11 wins in their final 15 games, Tomas Vanek and the Canadiens look to upset the Lightning.
At first glance, many would think that the Tampa Bay Lightning's 46-27-9 regular season record, the presence of their now-healthy superstar Steven Stamkos, and the play of goalie Ben Bishop would make them a heavy favorite over the Montreal Canadiens. Bishop, in particular, was outstanding. He posted a 37-14-7 record with a 2.23 goals against average (GAA), a .924 save percentage (SV%) and five shutouts. As pretty as these statistics may look to the casual observer, they don't tell the whole story. The following stats and league ranking are a truer indicator of the Lightning's season and their playoff hopes.
80.7 PK% (23rd)
The team ranked ninth in the National Hockey League in goals this season, despite the leg injury which limited Stamkos to 37 games. When healthy, Stamkos was a goal-scoring machine. He scored 25 goals and added 15 assists for 40 points in 37 games. Youngsters Ondrej Palat(59 points in 81 games) and Tyler Johnson (50 points in 82 games) were productive for the Lightning, as well. Veteran forward Valtteri Filppula added 58 points in 75 games. The offense took a big hit, however, when their leading scorer was dealt at the trade deadline.
Martin St. Louis topped the Lightning score sheet with 29 goals and 61 points in 62 games before being traded on March 5 to the New York Rangers in exchange for Ryan Callahan. Although Callahan is an excellent all-around player who can contribute to the Lightning's penalty kill (PK), the absence of St. Louis may potentially hinder the offense of the team and the effectiveness of Stamkos. There is no question that Stamkos is a bona fide superstar, but the loss of St. Louis puts more pressure on him to fill the net with vulcanized rubber.
Questions about the offense aside, trading for Callahan made sense for the Lightning, as their PK ranked 23rd in the NHL this season. It's an alarming statistic, particularly when you consider how fantastic Bishop has been in goal. The goalie's numbers may be misleading though, as his play declined sharply after the Olympics. Prior to the international games, Bishop was 28-8-4 with a 1.98 GAA, a .933 SV% and four shutouts. After the break, Bishop went 9-6-3 with a 2.79 GAA, a .904 SV% and one shutout. While a goalie can never be solely blamed for a decline in performance, the drastic changes in the numbers are still startling.
At the moment, the bigger question about Bishop is his health. He is already scratched from Game 1 due to the upper-body injury he suffered last week. Backup goalie Anders Lindbackgets the start in his place. Lindback heated up at the right time, with a 3-0-0 record, 0.67 GAA, .975 SV% and a shutout in his three games in the month of April. The Lightning will need Lindback to carry that momentum into the playoffs.
209 goals for (21st)
Having ranked 21st in the NHL in goals, the Canadiens will not be mistaken for an offensive juggernauts. However, their trade deadline acquisition of forward Thomas Vanek may have been the move of the year. The Canadiens lost their first three games after they acquired Vanek, but finished the season 11-3-1. Vanek was a big contributor to the Habs' hot streak with 14 points in the last 15 games.
A player of Vanek's caliber was sorely needed in the lineup, as the closest thing the Canadiens had to an all-star forward was the one-dimensional Max Pacioretty. The 25-year old scored 39 goals and notched 21 assists for 60 points in 73 games.
Vanek's presence also takes the pressure off of youngsters David Desharnais and Alex Galchenyuk. Although they are past their primes, veterans Tomas Plekanec, Daniel Briereand Brian Gionta provide valuable experience which may come in handy during the playoffs. Having a good mix of veterans reduces the pressures and expectations on younger players and allows them to find their game and grow. If Galchenyuk shows flashes of his potential in the playoffs, the Canadiens can be a very dangerous team.
Defensemen P.K. Subban and Andrei Markov jump-start the Canadiens attack and get the puck to the finishers. Subban was among the NHL's highest-scoring and most reliable defensemen this season, with 53 points while playing in all 82 regular season games. Markov recorded 43 points this season, including 36 assists.
Should the Canadiens defense be beaten, Carey Price awaits in net to stymie any attack. While having an elite goaltender like Price does not absolve players of their defensive responsibilities, it does give them more offensive freedom to take chances, thus enabling defensemen like Subban and Markov to shine. Price was superb this season with a 34-20-5 record, 2.32 GAA, .927 SV% (3rd in NHL) and six shutouts (2nd in NHL). He also was the goalie for the Gold Medal winning Canadian hockey team in this year's winter Olympics.
The Lightning/Canadiens series is indeed an interesting match of misleading statistics. The Lightning's offense and goaltending might not be as good as the regular season numbers indicate. Likewise, the Canadiens' offense might not be as bad as the regular season numbers indicate. Do not be surprised if you see the Canadiens eliminate the Lightning in this opening round series. They have a proven goaltender, a good defense and an underrated offense that continues to improve. If Galchenyuk takes his game to another level in the playoffs while the others continue to contribute, the Canadiens could conceivably make a deep run and win the Stanley Cup.
Posted in Montreal Canadiens, NHL, NHL playoffs, Tampa Bay Lightning and tagged Ben Bishop, Carey Price, Max Pacioretty, Montreal Canadiens, NHL, NHL Playoffs, Ryan Callahan, Stanley Cup, Steven Stamkos, Tampa Bay Lightning, Tomas Vanek on April 16, 2014 by d4assignment. Leave a comment


Learning to dive is a positive and life changing experience, and learning to dive in Malta makes it even more special.
Malta is the perfect location for divers of all level of experience, and beginners can start as they mean to go on by training in the sea.
Diving is all about experiencing the sea, and we want all our divers to have the best experience possible although we do have access to a pool if necessary.
All our classes are small with no more than 3 students with each Instructor – and this is a promise! By doing this, we can provide the highest level of care and ensure that each of our students receives the solid foundation of knowledge that will keep them safe and enhance their diving experiences in the years to come.
We try, as far as possible, to match our students to the most appropriate Instructor, especially in terms of language and "your" Instructor will support you every step of the way, from your classroom basics and into the water they will help you become safe and responsible divers. Recognising that some people prefer one-to-one tuition, this is available at the additional cost of €90/day.
E-learning is becoming increasingly popular, and our students can choose to complete their PADI theory instruction online, freeing up valuable dive time once you are in Malta.


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What Nick Jonas tells Priyanka Chopra before starting anything big, revealed
Priyanka Chopra Jonas is known for her impetuosity. In her new podcast, she told how she and husband Nick Jonas incorporated their respective traditions into the wedding. The actress said that before any big event happens, Nick asks her to worship. What else did the actress say?
Speaking on the Victoria's Secrets vs Voices podcast, Priyanka said that she and Nick are from different religions but spiritually one.
Priyanka said, 'Spiritually Nick and I are on the same line when it comes to our feelings and our relationship with our religions. It is true that we have grown up in different ways.
According to Priyanka, 'I believe that religion is such a map that leads to only one destination which is God. In such a situation, whatever your religion may be, we are all going in the same direction.
Priyanka told, 'I do a lot of worship at home like prayer ceremonies. Nick usually asks me to do puja whenever we start something big because I have always started such auspicious work in my life, with prayer.
And this has been the case with Nick as well and we have tried to create something similar in our family as well. Let us tell you, Priyanka and Nick tied the knot in December 2018. The couple married in two ways.
On the professional front, Priyanka is currently shooting for Citadel in Spain. Apart from this, she will be seen in many projects like 'The Matrix: Resurrections', 'Text For You'. She will make a comeback in Bollywood with the film 'Jee Le Zara'. In this, she will be seen alongside Katrina Kaif and Alia Bhatt.
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From December 11, 2017 Early Years Services including staff, service owners, board of management and volunteers will have new legal obligations under Children First.
1) Article on Children First Act Jan 10 2018 on Mandatory Reporting and Child Safeguarding Statements - New Requirements both English and Irish language versions.
2) Children First National Guidance for the Protection & Welfare of Children. The new Guidance includes information on the new legal requirements and contains important information for professionals working with children and organisations providing services to children. Everyone working in an early years' service should read and be familiar with the new guidance document. This Guidance will operate from Dec 11, 2017. Any previous guidance should be disposed of from this date. A pdf version of the Children First National Guidance is below.
3) Questions and Answers – Early Years Services and the Children First Act, 2015.
4) 5 Steps to Prepare for Mandatory Reporting.
A number of other useful documents can be found at www.tusla.ie including an introductory e-learning course "Introduction to Children First" which includes information on mandatory reporting.
Please note this introductory course does not replace the Always Children First Foundation Level Training.
The Early Years Child Protection Programme will run Briefing Sessions on the new Act in 2018 and we will contact you when full booking details are available.
Early years services will continue to be offered child protection training through the Childcare Committees, training materials will be updated and training delivery will resume in March 2018.
The purpose of this announcement is to alert childcare services about the upcoming programme and give time to prepare to apply for the grants.
- Strand 5: Essential building maintenance & quality improvement (School Age Childcare, community services only)Services can apply for all strands for which they are eligible.
Mandated Reporting starts on December 11th 2017. Tusla and National Children First Early Years Committee are working to update the materials and resources with the new requirements.
Children First Child Protection Training: The e-learning module is an introductory course on child protection and includes information on mandated reporting.
Please note this introductory course does not replace the Children First Foundation Level Training.
The early years' services will continue to be offered child protection training through the Childcare Committees - Children First will be updated and training delivery will resume in March, 2018.
DCCC have added a new album Best Practice Seminar "Where the Imaginative Things Are" to our photo gallery on our homepage.


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Roles of Iodine in Cancer, Radioprotection & Wound Care
Written by Aleksa Ristic, MS (Pharmacy) | Last updated: November 3, 2021
Jonathan Ritter, PharmD, PhD (Pharmacology), Puya Yazdi, MD | Written by Aleksa Ristic, MS (Pharmacy) | Last updated: November 3, 2021
Iodine is required to ensure proper development and metabolism in humans and plays a key role in thyroid health. In this post, we'll discuss the potential preventative roles of iodine in cancer development, radiation exposure, and wound care. Read on to learn more.
Iodine and Cancer Development
Please note: studies in this section explain the physiological preventative roles of iodine in cancer prevention and discuss preliminary research on its potential therapeutic applications in the future. They should not be interpreted as supportive of the anticancer effects of iodine supplements or any other source of iodine.
Studies have shown that iodine deficiencies do not cause thyroid cancers directly, but support their development and are connected to the development of more aggressive and less treatable thyroid cancer types [1].
At the beginning of the 1990s, a theory has emerged that iodine deficiency or excess may be associated not only with cancers of the thyroid but cancers of the stomach and breast as well [2, 3].
It is explained by the fact that all three types of organs originate from the cells that actively take up iodine in the course of early development. This theory was corroborated by statistical and immunological studies [2, 3].
It also may be explained by the fact that, besides the functions associated with the action of thyroid hormones, iodine also can promote cell death and protect cells from damage by oxygen [4, 5].
The addition of iodine, molecular iodine (I2), and iodolactone to the cell cultures of different types of prostate cancer causes cell death and blocks their growth [6, 7].
Iodine also prevents the damage of fats by oxygen, which may serve as a protective measure against cancer development, especially in the skin [8].
A study carried out in South Korea has shown that eating gim (a species of algae) was associated with lower rates of breast cancer [9].
The addition of 0.1% of iodide or iodine to the treatment of rats with breast cancer leads to cancer cell death [10].
Radioactive Iodine
In a study on mice, researchers combined the introduction of engineered stem cells and radioiodine to improve metastatic prostate cancer treatment [11].
Radioactive iodine is often used for treating patients after operations for several types of thyroid cancer. Usually, an isotope called I131 is used. Paradoxically, excess exposure to radioiodine may cause thyroid nodules and cancer [12].
Implantation of radioiodine "seeds" into the tumor in the case of pancreatic cancer was also shown to both block the tumor growth in animals [13].
Seeds containing radioactive iodine I125 added to the cultures of different stomach cancer lines also induced cell death and made them less viable [14].
It should be noted that radioiodine therapy can have significant side effects and even contribute to the development of leukemia [15].
Iodine and Radioprotection
Important: if you've been accidentally exposed to radioiodine or any other source of radiation, seek medical attention ASAP. The section below is for informational purposes only and does not encourage self-treatment of radiation exposure.
It is well known that potassium iodide (KI) intake is used in cases of accidental contamination or "leaking" of radioactive iodine into the environment [16, 17].
KI supplementation after accidental radiation exposures is highly recommended and is included in the WHO guidelines. It protects for about 24 hours and should be taken daily until the risk of exposure is gone [18].
KI should not be used as a preventative measure if no radioiodine exposure occurred. Additionally, it's not effective against general radiation from other sources [19].
Regular iodine competes with radioactive iodine, so the cells take it instead of a dangerous variant [16].
The addition of regular iodine to the culture of thyroid cells after irradiation not only improves their chance of survival, it also prevents the destruction of genetic material inside the cells [16].
It is proposed that besides eliminating its radioactive "competitor", iodine eliminates dangerous types of molecules generated by irradiation that can potentially damage the DNA [16].
In the case of radiation exposure, people with goiter and other disorders caused by iodine deficiency are at an even greater risk [18].
It should be noted though that meta-analysis of the literature on the topic has not found enough evidence to prove that KI intake after radioiodine exposure may prevent thyroid cancer [20].
Iodine for Disinfection
Iodine solution is widely used for disinfecting cuts and small wounds.
Povidone-iodine solution is also used for disinfecting surgical instruments and for preventing infections during surgeries [21, 22].
In some cases, povidone-iodine solutions are better against bacteria that antibiotics – mostly because bacteria develop antibiotic resistance [23, 24, 25].
There is some controversy concerning the efficacy of povidone-iodine, as bacteria develop resistance to antiseptics as well [26].
Stay Healthy by Learning What Vitamins & Minerals Your Body Needs
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Aleksa Ristic
MS (Pharmacy)
Aleksa received his MS in Pharmacy from the University of Belgrade, his master thesis focusing on protein sources in plant-based diets.
Aleksa is passionate about herbal pharmacy, nutrition, and functional medicine. He found a way to merge his two biggest passions—writing and health—and use them for noble purposes. His mission is to bridge the gap between science and everyday life, helping readers improve their health and feel better.
Supplements (other)
Hemp Oil vs CBD Oil: What's the Difference?
COX-2, Inflammation, Potential Natural Inhibitors & Genes
Dangers of High Leptin & Factors that Lower Levels


This article will give you a list of 10 such Adventure places in India that every adventure lover will love.
Most of us love to travel a lot and have got a nag of exploring Adventure places. For experiential holidays, planning an adventure getaway is the best. Imagine yourself enjoying the surreal beauty of mountains or rushing sound of river water. If these enthrill you and satisfy you,start finding the perfect adventurous place. Be it the southern part or northern part of India, India is filled with a plethora of options for an adventurous trip.
Manali is a delight for all the adventure seekers and nature lovers. You will find an attractive trail through apple orchards on your way and some breathtaking view of the Himalayas. You have other options like paragliding and trekking too. You can trek to malana, it is a hidden village known for its strict rules and regulations. Also, you will find jogini falls that is an hour trek away from Manali.
People who love adventure know how jumping from a height of more than 83 meters feels so thrilling. People who have never tried bungee jumping must visit this place. It is an activity that involves jumping from a height with a large elastic cord on your hips. This free falling is an amazing experience that you can add to your bucket list of travel.
This location is in Garhwal district and has rivers tons that consist of the biggest tributary to Yamuna river. River rafting is an activity that you can enjoy in tons river expedition. While rafting in Tone river, you can enjoy rapids like Tones squeezes, confluence, Tuni Bazaar and many others.
If you are one of those adventure junkie and like to consider safety options too, you must try hot air balloon ride as this is one best option. You can enjoy floating along the winds and enjoy the beautiful view from a height. Undoubtedly, you will get to absorb the beauty of the pink city and admire it in the best possible way. Not to forget the hidden palaces will surely leave you mesmerized.
If you get fascinated when you see some dune bashing happening in Dubai and wish to enjoy it, Jaisalmer is the place you will love. A 4×4 SUV gives you an adrenaline rush when you are inside it and it hits dashes of sand coming its way. Camel rides and some dune bashing in a lavish style is what this place offers you.
You must have heard many times about the fun and adventure that Goa offers its visitors. You cannot miss Banana surfing in one of the most thrilling water adventures in Goa. Surfing in between those immaculate waves will surely give you an experience of a lifetime. Some learning of basic skills and you are ready to board against the lashing water.
Munnar has some beautiful zigzag roads that offer you the best view of lush green hills. You get to enjoy a Madupatty tea estate and admire the beauty of Kundala Dam and Anamudi Chola. Imagine how relaxing it can feel cycling in this place and getting the best experience to live.
What about watching some endangered animals like Indian Rhinoceros. Kaziranga National Park has more than 2,000 rhinos. You can enjoy a jeep safari or an elephant ride here. If you are planning to go with kids then this is the one best options. This park offers you a view of a large population of elephants, water buffalos and deer.
To 10 Beautiful Countries where Indian currency will make you feel rich.
Trekking in strenuous Stok Kangri to the simple shan valley, your heart is sure to miss a beat with adventure. Ladakh has a perfect blend of adventure with beauty. You can also find highly-influencing monasteries. This place will surely give you some amazing travel stories to remember for lifelong.
In between the beauty of the Indian landscape, rock faces with the ruggedness that this place offers is unbelievable. Most of the rock climbing lovers can be seen in Karnataka. This south Indian state has got various marvellous rock climbing sites like Kabbal, Badami, Savandurga and many more.
I hope this article helped you to come up with an exciting and adventurous trip. In case, you come across any doubt do let us know through the comment section below.


Extreme Kissing is now an audiobook!
It's published by W H Howes and is available there and at Whole Story Audio, among other places.
Buy it with instant download at Audible in the UK or Audible in the US.
Find out more in the W H Howes catalogue, and listen to an extract below.
Bethany's story is narrated by Harriet Carmichael, who also read Kiss Date Love Hate, and Carlota's part is narrated by Jo Hall. Read more about these fabulous actors here.


Take control of your pool and spa from your home network or WI-FI enabled device using the Aqua Connect Home Network. With the Aqua Connect Home Network, you can monitor pool and spa settings, manage pH and sanitation, control your pool pump, adjust your heater's temperature, control your lights, and more from poolside or afar.
The Aqua Connect Home Network allows you to monitor multiple pools from one convenient location whenever or from wherever you want, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. You'll get complete reporting and diagnostics, receive automatic alerts via email or text, and be able to make quick, easy adjustments without needing to make a service call. Out of town for work or leisure? No sweat. With the Aqua Connect Home Network, you're always in complete control.
The Aqua Connect Home Network requires Pro Logic version 4.2 or newer or Aqua Rite Pro version 1.20 or newer. It also requires the use of a Wireless Base Station.


Handmade Wedding Anniversary Cards are coming your way in Now or Wow style! These handmade cards are beautiful and simple to make! I love showing you how #simplestamping CAN be used even with the more formal occasions in life!
Last night I had the pleasure of chatting with so many of you during my YouTube premiere featuring the Forever Lovely stamp set. If you weren't able to join in on the chat, I have a replay for you today and I think you are going to enjoy these (4) Handmade Wedding Anniversary Cards | Now or Wow cards!
Thank you all so much for joining for today's YouTube live… sort of live. Um, I don't even know what to call it so I went with Premiere. Let's just call it FUN, shall we?
Today's Quote of the Day is SO fitting for my life right now but on the bright side, it's about sharing the ideas… whether they are live or recorded, it's all about sharing.
Lovely card – I especially enjoyed the Highland Heather one. I would never have seen all the possibilities from the catalog picture. Thank you!!
Ohhh…yes, that Highland Heather is such a pretty color! You're right in that many times the catalog pictures just don't display all the loveliness of these stamps so I'm happy I can share these projects and give you ideas and a closer look! Thanks for watching!


Denise Pumain, "Hierarchy in Natural and Social Sciences"
Hierarchy is a form of organisation of complex systems that rely on or produce a strong differentiation in capacity (power and size) between the parts of the system. It is frequently observed within the natural living world as well as in social institutions. According to the authors, hierarchy results from random processes, follows an intentional design, or is the result of the organisation which ensures an optimal circulation of energy for information.
This book reviews ancient and modern representations and explanations of hierarchies, and compares their relevance in a variety of fields, such as language, societies, cities, and living species. It throws light on concepts and models such as scaling laws, fractals and self-organisation that are fundamental in the dynamics and morphology of complex systems.
At a time when networks are celebrated for their efficiency, flexibility and better social acceptance, much can be learned about the persistent universality and adaptability of hierarchies, and from the analogies and differences between biological and social organisation and processes. This book addresses a wide audience of biologists and social scientists, as well as managers and executives in a variety of institutions.


We have almost certainly all been there at some point – borrowing money, launder loaning money, forgetting about loans, etc. Be it a small amount for drinks, because you forgot your wallet, or a bigger sum because you chose to buy something expensive that you obviously really, really, really needed.
So, how to go about tracking and dealing with the dynamics of loaning and borrowing money? Fear not, for Toshl is here for you again, not in the money loaning business though, but in the business of helping to track loans and debts – or simply Hilfespurverleihenborgengeschäft, as the Germans would put it.
Let's say I want to buy a new Ferarri for $3200, but I am just $3100 short for it. What do I do? I go to a guy* I heard you can get a loan from, that hangs out behind the parking garage in the shady part of town every other night (because he has kids). I ask him for a donation towards my cause and after a few laughs, I promise I would pay him back in ten months with $1900 interest. I get the money, and now I have to settle the $5000 debt in ten months, which makes for $500 per month. Because I use Toshl, the best loan app around, I know this will be a piece of cake and I will not get my legs broken in the process.
I put the $3100 in Toshl as an income, category 'Loans', account 'Cash', plus I put 'Drago' in the description – which is supposedly the guy's name and also means 'expensive' in some languages. Just so I can be precise when I tell my grandchildren about my first Ferrari.
Ok, we got the money, we got the income from the loan marked, now to go about tracking the debt.
I make a new account for the debt, called 'Drago' and set up the initial balance as '-$5000' which is the total amount of the debt, including the interest.
To note the repayments as I return the money to Drago in monthly instalments, I make a transfer of $500 from account 'Cash' to account 'Drago', date it on the day of the first payment, set it up to repeat every month for ten months and set up reminders for it. Now I will be reminded to take the $500 to him every month, and the 'Drago' account will get out of red numbers over the ten months.
Let's take a look at another, simpler case. Let's say I lend $4.99 to a fellow car enthusiast for a little 1:100 plastic Ferrari model.
I give him the money, put it in Toshl as expense, category 'Loans', account 'Cash'.
If this is a one-off loan, I can put the guy's name in description. If I lend to this guy often, I could also put his name in a new tag on the expense. That way I can easily sum up everything he owes me.
When he pays me back after seven and a half months, I just enter it as an income with appropriate tags, etc. This way I can always track borrowing and loaning entries.
Alternatively, I could just erase the loan expense, but that wouldn't give me any insight on the loan later on.
Bob's your uncle! Use whichever method works best for you or be creative and invent your own system. That's it for now from our secret volcano base, ta ta!
*Toshl does not recommend taking loans from random guys behind the parking garage, nor can we provide phone numbers of any specific guys providing such loans. A bank would probably still be a better bet, although their moral compasses might not be in much better shape, compared to the guy behind the parking garage.


text:
Earth, Wind & Fire	Buy This Song
Earth, Wind & Fire
Earth, Wind & Fire is an American band that has spanned the musical genres of soul, disco, R&B, funk, jazz and rock. They are one of the most successful and critically acclaimed bands of the twentieth century.Rolling Stone has described them as "innovative, precise yet sensual, calculated yet galvanizing" and has also declared that the band "changed the sound of black pop". more »
Written by: Lorenzo Dunn, Philip Bailey, Maurice White
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"Shining Star Sheet Music." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2021. Web. 16 Jan. 2021. <https://www.lyrics.comsheetmusic.php?id=8172118>.
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Live at the Greek Theatre [DVD]
In the Stone [DVD]
Dialogue, Pts. 1 & 2 [DVD]
Boogie Wonderland [DVD]
System of Survival [DVD]
Jupiter [DVD]
Getaway [DVD]
Serpentine Fire [DVD]
Kalimba Story [DVD]
Got to Get You into My Life [DVD]
After the Love Has Gone [DVD]
Reasons [DVD]
Fantasy [DVD]
Let's Groove [DVD]
Mighty Mighty [DVD]
Hard Habit to Break [DVD]
September [DVD]
Sing a Song [DVD]
Shining Star [DVD]
What was David Bowie's real surname?
A. Jones
B. James
C. Jermey
D. Julian


The Lewis Psalm Singers have made a significant contribution to the work of Colmcille and to cross-community understanding in Northern Ireland.
Psalm singing is at the heart of worship in the Presbyterian Gaelic tradition in Scotland. Bringing with them a unique sound and singing tradition the Lewis Psalm Singers from the Free Church congregations on the island of Lewis, gave Irish audiences a unique insight into Gaelic culture .
Colmcille had originally invited the Gaelic psalm singers to Belfast in 2005 where they sang to 450 people in the Ulster Museum during the Leabhar Mòr Exhibition. They have since sung to capacity audiences in Iona Abbey, Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin, and St Columb's Cathedral Derry, and in many other venues, including Áras Éanna in Inis Oírr in the Aran islands.
A tour in November 2009, included a cross community venue in North Belfast and also the Tullycarnet Library in loyalist East Belfast where the Rev Ian Paisley was in the audience.