More Kanji: Advance your students' knowledge with 102 new Kanji characters in Adventures in Japanese Volume 2. Through two years of study with the series, students will acquire 162 kanji in total.
Longer Dialogues in Manga Style: Motivate learners with the 2 to 5-page lesson-opening dialogues in full-color manga format. The complete dialogue text presented in this format provides an intriguing introduction to the language focus of each unit.
Better Recycling: Solidify the grammar and vocabulary taught in Volume 1 with the Preliminary Lesson and Let's Review pages included Volume 2. This integration reinforces language acquisition and allows students to learn at their own pace.
Practice at Point of Instruction: Reinforce newly presented grammar through accompanying practice exercises to confirm learning before moving on in the lesson.
Authentic Readings: Encourage learners to use Japanese in a natural context. Volume 2 includes more authentic readings such as blog posts, printed advertisements, receipts, and menus that put learning into a meaningful context. The corresponding exercises emphasize on how the language is used in real-life Japan.


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Category Archives: NBA
The No Headband Game
Michael Jordan's Flu Game. Jordan's "Shrug" Game, Willis Reed's injured ankle game, Magic Johnson's Baby Hook. These are some of the greatest games in NBA Finals History. After last night, we have to add one more to the pantheon of the "Holy shnikies! We are watching history! Games". The "No Headband Game".
It was like Superman shed his suit and glasses** and donned a cape and instead those stupid glasses are equivalent to a headband that protects a certain hairline from being shown over and over on really high definition televisions. Wait…that doesn't do it justice. It was really like when Steve Urkel from Family Matters decided he had to take drastic measures to win Laura's heart. He invented "Cool Juice" and what resulted can only be described as television history. Stefan Urquelle. LeBron totally drank "Cool Juice" with about 9 minutes left in the game and became Stefan Urquelle.
**Quick Tangent: Clark Kent/Kal-El/Superman absolutely started the fake glasses trend that has maneuvered its way into pop culture with hipsters and NBA players. The only problem is NBA Players/Hipsters aka Plipsters. You aren't hiding your identity! We totally know who you are. All Superman has to do is put on some generic reading glasses from CVS and BOOM. Clark Kent and everyone is fooled. It's ridiculous.
LeBron pre-headband was having a pedestrian game, a game where people would question his ultimate legacy in another loss to the hands of the San Antonio Spurs. But no, headband off, "Cool Juice" chugged and voila, LeBron and company not only came back in epic fashion. They destroyed the smartest, most headstrong team in recent memory. This is Spurs team is a team that never shakes, never questions itself, always finishes off quarters and games, but on the biggest stage they folded. Manu Ginobili had a +/- of -21 and 8 turnovers. Kawhi Leonard couldn't hit both free throws to make a two possession game. Parker took uncharacteristically bad shots.
They literally roped off floor with time left on the clock, the NBA even brought out the trophy. You cannot get any closer to destroying the fake dreams of the fake fans of Miami. They were leaving for South Beach so they could see Chris Brown & Drake fight again, I'm sure.
But no, we were privileged to see the best NBA Finals game since 1998 and Jordan's game-winning shot against the Utah Jazz. Stefan Urquelle LeBron James' no headband did it. THAT HAS TO BE THE REASON.
How do the Spurs recover from this? Game 6 on the road against the best team in the NBA and they choked. How do they even show up for Game 7 after such heartbreak? If one team can do it, it is the Spurs.
But the real question is: Will LeBron be wearing a headband? Is this a new statement like when Jordan wore 45 or Kobe cut his afro and sported #24? Or is it LeBron's superhero, his Superman, his Stefan Urquelle that only comes out when they need a Super Hero.
I loved Family Matters. It goes down as one of the greatest sitcoms of the '90s. My friday nights were epic #TGIF. Boy Meets World, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Step by Step and Family Matters. How do you beat that? YOU ADD STEFAN URQUELLE.
LeBron, for the love of Basketball please rock the no headband and take what is rightfully yours. Your second NBA Title. The Laura to your Urkel.
Posted in Basketball, Championship, NBA, Sports
Tags: LeBron James, Miami Heat, NBA Finals, TGIF
NBA Finals Storylines and Prediction: What Really Matters
It's finally here, the NBA Finals! After an excruciatingly long playoffs that started in April and saw great series like the Miami Heat vs. Indiana Pacers, the rise of Steph Curry and the dominating backcourt that was Darius Morris and Andrew Goudelock of the Los Angeles Lakers (J/K), we finally made it. The two best teams in the NBA tip off in what should be the best NBA Finals in the past 10 years sans Lakers vs Celtics in 2010.
We could go over the X's and O's, the pick and rolls, the rotation help defense but that shit is boring. Let's take a look at the real storylines of the 2013 NBA Finals:
The Stars:
LeBron James – LeBron is obviously the best player in this series and the world and he can and will take over games whenever he pleases. He's like Will Smith, whenever he wants to come back and dominate the box office – he will. Oops, just saw the news about "After Earth"…I guess that's what happens when you're in a M. Night Shyamalan movie and your characters name is Cypher Raige. Guess I'll have to come up with something else to name my first born son.
On the other side, Tony Parker is playing like the best point guard in the NBA and Tim Duncan had to have visited Germany to inject his whole body with what Kobe did for his knee. If Parker remains unguardable, the Heat are in for a long series. Duncan is a better matchup for Bosh than he was against Hibbert, but going up against the greatest power forward in the NBA is never an easy task.
Former Stars:
Dwayne Wade & Chris Bosh – Let's face it, LeBron is the only legitimate superstar on Miami now. I'm not saying that DWade and Bosh can't be huge factors in this series – – they will be — but, if you had to rely solely on those guys then Wade wouldn't be able to carry them like in '06 and Bosh would bring you back to the days when he was a Raptor and looked like he was adopted out of Jurassic Park.
Manu Ginobli – Manu is a shell of his old self as well. He's still a high-energy player that comes through whenever you need him. If Ginobli outplays Wade this series, the Spurs will win. The only problem is Ginobli is falling apart faster than Rob Stark's peace offering in Game of Thrones. #RedWedding.
Fans:
You know you're a Spurs fan when…
Your team always "plays the right way" since, apparently, they are the only ones in the NBA that actually do play the "right way".
You say, "It's not boring basketball, it's beautiful basketball". If anyone ever says that they are a soccer fan. They are really into passes and not seeing a score. (BTW, the Spurs are definitely not boring, they are fun to watch…wait, what's happening to me?!)
You are the most annoying lady in the building. #SceamingSpursLady
You know you're a Heat fan when…
You became a fan in the past 3 years and call everyone a "hater" because they don't like LeBron and the new Flo-Rida CD.
You can't point out Miami on a map.
You're a lady that flips off opposing teams and was once wanted for her husband's murder.
You look like this:
Gregg Popovich – Arguably the best active coach in the NBA and one of the greatest coaches of all-time and creator of the greatest sideline interviews. Ever.
I want to see Popovich on Christmas morning as a child. I bet he hated it.
Popovich can cement his legacy with a win over the Heat and it may be the end of his prolific career (Duncan's as well).
Erik Spoelstra – Spoelstra is an underrated coach, if you can be one with four hall-of-famers on your team. He is only 42, has a championship under his belt, and has kept this team together through a lot of adversity. And he takes a shoulder bump like a champ. Out maneuvering and out-coaching Popovich might be an impossible task, but if he can match him and find ways for "The Others" to contribute, it will be his greatest achievement as a coach and cement his legacy as one of the best coaches in the NBA. No pressure, Spoel.
Red Mamba / Birdman –
I could write a whole 250 page manifesto on whether to love or hate Matt "Faux Red Mamba" Bonner. KOBE HOW COULD YOU?! One day, when Kobe and I become BFF4L and he reads my columns, he's gonna totally regret that move then we'll live happily ever after! But until then, I hate you, Matt Bonner. It also doesn't help that announcers have latched on to this great nickname and call him it at every opportune moment. These NBA Finals are gonna force me to drink more than I actually do. Oh well.
The Birdman is scary. So scary that I picked him to be the #10 athlete I'd love to see chase down Beiber. But, like I said before I'm pretty sure they are best buds and that when this season is over Beiber will invite The Birdman into his entourage and have him featured on one of his songs. As Americans, we can only hope that Birdman the Rapper is featured as well and they have a rap battle. Mind = Blown. That would probably go down as the worst song ever made and it'd probably win a Grammy.
This series is tough to predict. I usually go with the best player in the world, but the Spurs are a different beast. LeBron will put up his points, but after a week and half off and the greatest coach in the NBA has that much time to prepare for an opponent, he will shut down "The Others" and the Spurs will take this series and solidify some of the greatest careers in NBA history.
Even if you aren't a fan of these teams, this series has a chance to be epic and will be a joy to watch the two best teams faceoff.
SPURS IN 6.
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Posted in Basketball, NBA, Sports
Tags: 2013, Chris Bosh, Dwayne Wade, LeBron James, Miami Heat, NBA Finals, Red Mamba, San Antonio Spurs, Storylines, Tony Parker
ESPN Backhands LeBron James and Beiber & Bynes Dream Couple!
In case you were to enthralled with Justin Beiber doing an Amanda Bynes impression** at the Miami Heat game on Monday, then you already know that the Heat decimated the Indiana Pacers and have advanced to the NBA Finals to take on the wily vets, the San Antonio Spurs.
**Best celebrity couple ever? (If you can still call Amanda Bynes a celebrity). What would their celebrity nickname be? I love these things: Jamanda Byber? Amastin Beibynes? Jumandin Bebyners? Jumanji, for short?! The possibilities are endless! I must make an iPhone app that does this for me.**
ESPN posted that great video from illustrator Richard Swarbrick. Now, I don't know this illustrator from any other illustrator, but clearly he has an appreciation for the history of Basketball. From Willis Reed playing on his hurt ankle to Michael Jordan celebrating his six championships and the most famous layup of all time to Magic Johnson's skyhook. I would buy posters for every single one of those images, but the one image that stood out among the rest – LeBron's cramps.
Swarbrick, you crazy son of a gun, you illustrate some of the most historic and glorious moments in NBA History and then give a little backhand to Bron Bron? Is he a Cavs fan? Did he hate the decision as much as the rest of the world? Or he hates male baldness? Maybe he doesn't like that LeBron is being compared to Jordan. Whatever it is, it's hilarious. When his artwork for this inevitably comes out I shall frame LeBron writhing in pain. No homo, No offense, Bron Bron.
My only question: Where was the iconic Paul Pierce getting wheelchair-ed off the court from the NBA Finals against the Lakers?
Other than the one LOL moment from the video, it's pretty awesome. But, seriously can we get Beibs and Bynes to date already? She might throw her bong at him though.
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Tags: Amanda Bynes, Basketball, Bong, Finals, Indiana Pacers, Justin Beiber, LeBron James, Miami Heat, NBA, San Antonio Spurs
10 Athletes I'd Love to See Chase After a (Speeding) Justin Beiber
Justin Beiber is under investigation after allegedly speeding through a gated community in LA in his white ferrari. The cops aren't the only ones interested in Beiber's activities, former football player Keyshawn Johnson followed Beiber to his house to confront him on his reckless driving, but Beiber danced his way into his house without talking to Johnson.
Keyshawn was a prolific receiver, but he wasn't fast back in his prime so there's no way he could chase after the Beibs these days. But I can think of at least 10 athletes today that can stop the Beibs today and make everyone regret being a Belieber.
10. Chris "Birdman" Andersen – The "Birdman" as some affectionately call him is a big man that has journeyed around the league and is now a key contributor to the Miami Heat. The tattoo aficionado terrifies me, but I think if he ended up chasing after Beiber he'd fit right in on his entourage and might even be featured on J. Beib's new single.
9. LeBron James – LeBron is one scary man. So scary that his hair is running away from his face! Ha! I kid. Bron Bron has been seen by many in their rearview as he comes gliding across the court to swat an attempted lay up, just think what he could do to Beiber and his ferrari.
8. Justin Smith – The San Francisco 49ers' defensive lineman known as "The Cowboy". He intimidates 300-pound offensive lineman and shoves them like a rag doll, so what could if Beiber was speeding through his ranch? Probably this.
7. Kevin Garnett – Garnett is a big man that has guarded the paint for over 18 years and Beiber has been alive, like 18 years. Plus Kevin Garnett is 7 feet tall and yells obscenities all the time, that would hurt poor Beiber's virgin ears.
6. Patrick Willis – Willis is the leader of the 49ers defense and the heir apparent to Ray Lewis as big middle linebacker that will destroy you. His hobbies include long walks on the beach with his dog, Zeus and destroying wide receivers that like to go over the middle. Be careful Justin!
5. J.J. Watt – Watt is arguably the best defensive player in the NFL and was awarded the Defensive Player of the Year award in just his second season. He loves going after the quarterback, come to to think of it, Beiber has the same facial features as Dallas Cowboys QB Tony Romo. They should both be careful.
4. Mike Tyson – I know he's not a current athlete, but Mike Tyson is still one of the scariest men on Planet Earth. If someone told me Metta World Peace's dad was Mike Tyson you wouldn't hear an argument out of me. I don't know whether Tyson would destroy Beiber or hug him like he's his long lost white child, actually I'm pretty sure it's the latter. Tyson and Beiber have to be BFFs.
3. Jon "Bones" Jones – Arguably the best fighter in the UFC, Jon "Bones" Jones is one of the most dangerous athletes in all of sports. Bones Jones would hit Beiber with a spinning elbow faster than Beiber could sing "Baby, baby, baby".
2. Brock Lesnar – Lesnar is a former WWE and UFC Champion that had stints in the NFL. I don't know where he is now, but I'm sure whatever it is he's breaking someones bones. Lesnar will make you think that there is alien life, he is not built like a human should be with muscle on top of muscle. I still think he should've been the bad guy in "Fast and Furious 6″. Oh well, there's always a sequel.
1. Metta World Peace – The artist formerly known as Artest, World Peace is a psycho who likes to thank his psychiatrist after winning NBA Championships. That is the last man I would want chasing after me. Justin, World Peace is Coming After You! Oh damn, I just gave Beiber the new title to his CD.
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Posted in Basketball, Football, NBA, NFC West, NFL, Sports
Tags: Birdman, Justin Beiber, LeBron James, Metta World Peace, Sports, Top 10
Kobe Bryant Tweets a Grotesque Picture of His Surgery, Crosses Social Media Boundaries
In case you've been living under a rock the past couple months, Kobe Bryant has taken up social media in an unprecedented way. After rupturing his achilles tendon, Kobe has embraced the 21st century and has quickly ascended my Power Rankings of Favorite Tweeters and Instagrammers. Congrats Mamba, you're my number one!
Recently, he's been giving updates on his rehab as he tries to prove his haters wrong and comeback from his most devastating injury of his career. But Kobe crossed a line this past week. A social media line, that is usually reserved for the creepy people on the internet not named Kobe. He Instagrammed a picture of his achilles surgery and it was the most disgusting picture I've seen since Kevin Ware's broken leg made its way on the interwebs.
Click here to view the graphic photo
At least he's got the #hashtagging down. #Graphic is an understatement, Kobes.
While perusing my Instagram and eating lunch, this popped up. So, after I puked profusely and woke up from my Instagram induced blackout (I didn't faint! I swear!) I thought we should set a couple guidelines for celebrities and their Instagram's.
Do's:
Do post #selfies of yourself. Honestly, if you're a celebrity that means you're probably pretty damn attractive. As much as I hate #selfies, if you're good looking I won't complain. Unless you post an inspirational quote as the caption to your selfie, then I will pray for your soul.
Do post pictures of you with other celebrities. Do I want to know if you're out partying with Lindsay Lohan, Dennis Rodman and Charlie Sheen? Hell yes I do. That would be a fun game of Marry, F*ck, Kill*
*Marry: Charlie Sheen because you know he'd at least keep it interesting. F*ck: Lindsay Lohan, well she's a girl, I'm a guy, it's physics. Kill: Dennis Rodman, no explanation needed.
Do post behind the scenes looks at your prolific life. If you're an actor, take some pictures that will give us an inside look on your new movie that I will probably download. If you're an athlete, take a picture of your teammate passed out on the plane ride. We eat that shit up.
Don'ts:
Don't post gruesome pictures of your injuries! It is disgusting and will make the collective nation sick. We get it, Kobe, you're a warrior, you play through injuries and you speak your mind. But, please spare me seeing the insides of your body. It just ain't right.
Don't tweet out a picture of your instagram that you Facebook'd. That is confusing and annoying and I will probably hate you.
Don't like pictures that people have tweeted just of you. You're a celebrity, so I'm sure you're naive and need the attention, but just do a Google image search of you and bask in the glory that is yourself.
Posted in Basketball, NBA
Tags: Achilles Tendon, Basketball, Kobe Bryant, NBA
Kobe Bryant Betrays Me, Gives Rightful Name to Another
In case you missed the awful NBA All-Star Saturday Night, you didn't miss much other than missed dunks in the Slam Dunk Contest, but you did miss a betrayal for the ages. In an effort to get San Antonio Spurs Forward Matt Bonner into the Three-Point Contest, Kobe Bryant bequeathed the nickname the "Red Mamba" to him. Needless to say I was heartbroken.
Let's go over the facts: Kobe Bryant is my second favorite basketball player of all-time behind Michael Jordan. The Lakers are my favorite team. I have red hair. Those three factors alone put me on the short list for greatest nickname ever, "The Red Mamba".
Not only did Matt Bonner — whose name is really close to being Matt Boner — get the greatest nickname on Planet Earth and probably the Milky Way Galaxy, but he also got a shirt of a Red Mamba in attack mode?!
That is my shirt. I understand your mistake Kobe, so I'll take that shirt in Men's Large, does it come as a tall tee? I am ready to terrify the little kid that was jumped over in the Slam Dunk Contest.
Now after being bestowed the "Red Mamba" nickname and an equally awesome and horrifying shirt, the Red Mamba has to run away with the Three-Point Contest, right? There's no way the Red Mamba could lose!
At this point, I was torn. Do I root for Mr. Red Mamba even though he stole my rightful name? Us Gingers do have to stick together, you know. Or…has this man become my mortal enemy — the Joker to my Batman, the receding hairline to my LeBron James — and I must destroy him to regain what is rightfully mine? I decide to go with the former seeing as he's a big, white guy with red hair, he's just too damn lovable. Damn you Bonner!
The Red Mamba comes out nailing everything. Maybe Kobe was right. Bonner advances to the finals against Kyrie Irving.
I'm now on the #REDMAMBA bandwagon, if you can't beat them join them. And make it a #Hashtag, of course.
Unfortunately, being tall and white and a Ginger caught up to big Bonner in the Finals where he ran into the buzz-saw that is Kyrie Irving.
The Red Mamba loses, which gets me thinking – I lose all the time. I could've lost at the Three-Point Contest, I could lose a lot of things for the right to be called the Red Mamba by Kobe Bean Bryant. Lance "Second Place" Cartelli doesn't quite have the same ring to it. Therefore, the twitter campaign #Lance4RedMamba begins, it shall be trending in no time.
At least Kobe still has his back right? The guy that created the nickname and started the campaign to get Matt Bonner into the Three-Point Contest wouldn't just turn his back on him would he? Never turn your back on a Mamba!
Oh. Nevermind. Me and my Bonner feel betrayed again.
After being stabbed in the back by Kobe, I doubt Mr. Bonner wants to keep this nickname that is tainted by the 2013 NBA Three-Point Contest. Which means the reign of Lance "Red Mamba" Cartelli is in full affect. Hopefully the power doesn't go to my head and I become Joffrey from Game of Thrones.
I had to do more research on this Red Mamba. Like a Method Actor, I had to do more research to get into the role of a lifetime.
First, a Google search. The seventh thing on the list is a movie called "The Red Mamba" made in 2002. I don't even need to read the plot summary I know that this will be the best movie ever made (sorry, Highlander) and that if there is a God, it will be streaming on Netflix. But, I get sucked into the IMDb page. A movie written and directed by James Jackson – whose other credits include: Actor – Aliens vs. A-Holes and he was also a Cinematographer for Blood, Guts, and Cleaning Supplies: The Making of "The Janitor" – well, that's two more movies on my Netflix queue. Still perusing around the IMDb page, I get to the plot summary and it is everything I've ever wanted and more.
A bright sunny day in the deep wilderness fades to black for Oz and Lucy, two teens on a quest for a magical sex drug which grows wild in a mythical mushroom field known as Cloud 9. Oz assures her that the story about a man who claims to have seen a caveman in the woods was either a delusion caused from his eating a similar but poisonous variety of the sex drug known as the "Red Mamba", or more likely a spook story to keep poachers clear of the treasured fungus in Cloud 9… Or is it?
Why did Christopher Nolan not write and direct this? There's always the sequel. I am available, by the way.
Unfortunately, there are no reviews or even any message board comments. How can this be true? But, from eight satisfied patrons it is rated 8.4 which would effectively put it as the 50th greatest movie of all-time according to IMDb. I'm sold.
But I digress, I finally return to my Google search to realize there is no Wikipedia page for the Red Mamba and that it doesn't even exist! Time to genetically mate a Black Mamba with a Ladybug to create the #REDMAMBA.
Kobe – I know you will read this and I just want you to know I'm not angry, I'm just disappointed.
#LANCE4REDMAMBA
Tags: All-Star, Basketball, Kobe Bryant, Matt Bonner, NBA, Red Mamba, Three-Point Contest
In case you were out with your imaginary girlfriend this week, here's what happened in sports:
– In the most bizzarre sports news in years, Manti Te'o got Catfish-ed by a friend who created a (fake) dead girlfriend that did not actually exist and we all got #Te'o'd. Although she was fake, reports are that during her stint with (fake) leukemia she wore a "LIVESTRONG" bracelet to support Lance Armstrong. Apparently she never got the news. In addition, the sequel of Catfish is now in early development, and the working title is "Catfish Part II: Revenge of the Fallen". It is being directed by Michael Bay.
– Lance Armstrong finally admitted to using performance enhancing drugs (PEDs) and being a bully while winning seven Tour de France titles in an interview with Oprah. Worried about his public image, Lance prayed to God to give his last nut for a "bigger story about a fake dead girlfriend that a superstar has never met so that his indiscretions become an afterthought". After Manti Te'o's story came out, he once again prayed to God, "You know I was joking, right?, YOU ALREADY TOOK MY GOOD TESTICLE!". In other news, Lance Armstrong is privately funding Catfish Part II: Revenge of the Fallen.
– Colin Kaepernick ran for a record 181 yards rushing while throwing for over 200 yards and accounting for four touchdowns in a win over the Green Bay Packers to advance the San Francisco 49ers into the NFC Championship game against the Atlanta Falcons. Kaepernick has lead to the new craze "Kaepernicking" where you kiss your tattoos after a touchdown. Other crazes include "Tebowing", "Griffining" – where you lay on the ground writhing in pain because your field destroyed your knee. "Romo-ing" – where you throw an interception at the most crucial time in a game. "Manning-ing" – where you look like you breath out of your mouth and wonder how the hell this guy is a successful QB? and everyone's favorite "Sanchezing" when a big butt gets in your way and you fumble the ball.
– The New York Jets are reportedly interested in signing potential free agent Michael Vick. The Jets seem to be interested in Vick because he combines everything the Jets love, a left-handed QB that loves to run but also takes a lot of sacks and turns the ball over. Vick is also contemplating changing his name to Mark Tebow or Tark Sanbow. Coincidentally, Tark Sanbow will be the fake love interest in Catfish Part II: Revenge of the Fallen.
– Kobe Bryant was voted to his 15th All-Star game in his career. Kobe starting is a perfect fit for the Western Conference Team — a game where Kobe can shoot whenever he wants and people play little-to-no defense, sounds like the quintessential Laker team. Hopefully Kobe can bring Mike Brown and Mike D'Antoni to coach the team.
Posted in Basketball, Championship, Football, NBA, NFC West, NFL, Sports
Tags: Atlanta Falcons, Catfish, Colin Kaepernick, Green Bay Packers, Kobe Bryant, Lance Armstrong, Los Angeles Lakers, Manti Te'o, Mark Sanchez, Michael Bay, Michael Vick, New York Jets, San Francisco 49ers, Tim Tebow
Kyle McCarthy: The Weekend That Was In Sports
Hello, hello everyone! This is Kyle McCarthy here. Lancer has entrusted me with a recap of the last week or so in sports, so here it comes! Let's go ahead and start with the most recent week in college football!
I'll leave the BCS talk alone for just a minute and reflect upon the Conference Championship weekend that just occurred.
In the most exciting game of the weekend, the Alabama Crimson Tide pulled out a close victory over the Georgia Bulldogs. I actually thought this was Georgia's year to overtake the Tide because of their stud freshmen running backs and very stingy defense. The final score ended up being 32-28 in favor of the Tide; some may do a double-take after reading this score because the SEC is known for their defense. But this was a great game for any type of football fan. Georgia actually had an 11 point lead with 6:31 left in the third quarter, but Alabama has been there before and responded quickly with two touchdowns in a row. The final minute may have been the most exciting, if Georgia had one timeout left they may be the team in the national championship. Aaron Murray had a pass that was tipped and caught by a teammate at the six yard line, and with the first down yards away and no timeouts, all the Bulldogs could do was watch as time expired and the Crimson Tide began their celebration.
In the other Championship games my UCLA Bruins came close but ended up losing to the very good Stanford Cardinals in the Pac 12 Championship game 27-24. Stanford's victory gives them their first Rose Bowl berth in over 10 years. Their opponent will be the Big 10 Champion Wisconsin Badgers. Although the Badgers have five losses, this will be their third consecutive Rose Bowl appearance representing the Big 10. Kansas State beat the Texas Longhorns to clinch the Big 12 division. Florida State defeated Georgia Tech to clinch the ACC championship. And lastly Northern Illinois University beat Kent State in double OT to clinch the MAC Championship. Some of you may be wondering why I even mentioned Northern Illinois, and here is the reason why…
After defeating Kent State, Northern Illinois jumped high enough in the BCS to earn a spot in the Orange bowl against Florida State. ESPN analysts faces were classic upon the news, and of course twitter blew up as well. I personally root for the underdog in a lot of circumstances, but this is absurd. To say that a team like Northern Illinois deserves a spot in a BCS bowl game over other deserving teams like Georgia, LSU and even Oklahoma is ludicrous (I rarely use that word)! Thank God a college football playoff is in the works because the BCS system is flawed and this is another prime example of it. As I discussed earlier the Rose bowl will be played between the Stanford Cardinals and Wisconsin Badgers. The Florida Gators will play the Louisville Cardinals in the Sugar Bowl. The Fiesta Bowl will feature Kansas State taking on the Oregon Ducks. Keep in mind these were the number one and two ranked teams in the country just a couple weeks ago! And lastly the BCS National Championship game will feature the undefeated Notre Dame Fighting Irish against the second ranked Alabama Crimson Tide for bragging rights as the best team in the nation. Luckily, most (if not all) could agree that these are the two best teams in the nation and deserve the right to do battle for supremacy in college football.
With the upcoming Heisman trophy I thought I would share my top candidates and ultimate prediction for the prestigious trophy. I really feel there isn't a run-away candidate this year which could make the race much closer than people think. I see this as a three person race. First you have Manti Te'O of Notre Dame. This guy is exciting to watch and very deserving of the award. What helps Manti is that his team is number one in the nation, and regardless of what anyone says, your team's record does play a big factor in how people vote. As a linebacker Manti has seven interceptions on the year, for a linebacker, or any college player that is incredible! I have seen him play in a few games this year and he just has an instinct for being at the right place at the right time. What works against him is that he is a defensive player. Voters tend to show much more love for offensive players, no defensive player has won the award since Charles Woodson in 1997. The next candidate for the award is Collin Klein, quarterback of the Kansas State Wildcats. Collin had a very strong year. He threw 15 touchdowns with only 7 interceptions, but also added 22 rushing touchdowns to his resume. Having a total of 37 touchdowns definitely means you should be in the conversation for the Heisman. Working against Collin is that he lost against an unranked Baylor team, which ultimately cost his team a shot in the National Title game, and a TD to Interception ratio of just over 2:1. My last candidate is someone that came out of nowhere and is in my opinion, the front runner for the award. Johnny Manziel, or Johnny Football as he has been come to be known, had a record-breaking year. Johnny Football totaled over 4600 total yards, breaking the SEC record for total yardage, AS A FRESHMEN!! Not only did he break the past records of other Heisman winners Cam Newton and Tim Tebow, but he did it as A FRESHMEN, in the SEC, and in two fewer games. This guy is exciting as it comes in college football today, and with him under center Texas A&M has a bright future. His Heisman moment had to be when he went into Alabama and beat the Crimson Tide, great game! The only thing working against Johnny here is that he is ironically what makes him so intriguing, HE'S A FRESHMEN! For whatever reason some voters won't vote for him just because of this. I find this downright stupid, and feel that a person's tenure ship in college shouldn't factor into their eligibility for an award. All three great candidates, but here is my prediction of how I would vote, and how I think it will realistically play out…
My Vote: WINNER- Johnny "Football" Manziel, second- Manti Te'O, third- Collin Klein
How it will turn out: WINNER- Johnny "Football" Manziel, second- Collin Klein, third- Manti Te'O
With the playoffs inching closer and closer, each and every game becomes much more important for each team, here is a re-cap of each game.
Falcons Defeat Saints 23-13: The Falcons defense did enough to stop Drew Brees' legendary consecutive TD streak at 54. The defense played so well that they also forced Brees into a career high 5 interceptions. This was a big win for the Falcons as they close in on the number 1 seed in the NFC.
Bills Defeat Jaguars 34-18: The Bills win to move to 5-7 on the year and keep their small playoff chances alive. Big day on the ground by Fred Jackson and CJ Spiller.
Seahawks Defeat Bears 23-17: It took the Seahawks an OT period to do it, but they got the job done nonetheless. Russell Wilson threw 2 touchdowns and no interceptions to lead the Hawks by the Bears. The loss puts the Seahawks in great position for a wild card berth, while also taking away the division lead the Bears had over the Packers.
Packers Defeat Vikings 23-14: With this win, the Packers are right back where everyone thought they'd be, the top team in their division. Adrian Petersen had a big day on the ground with over 200 yards, but not enough to provide the Vikes with a W.
Colts Defeat Lions 35-33: What a game this was. The legend of the young Andrew Luck continues. Luck threw a game-winning walk-off TD pass to Donnie Avery to win the game and further prove why there was so much hype about him coming into the year. This makes the Colts now 8-4 on the season, who would have predicted this???
Texans Defeat Titans 24-10: The Texans continue to roll and defeated the Titans by a couple touchdowns. The win secured a playoff spot for the Texans.
Chiefs Defeat Panthers 27-21: In a game some didn't think would be played, the Chiefs, who were the emotional favorite after the murder-suicide of one of their young linebackers, beat the Panthers. Truly a tragic story. Not much to say, but glad that at least for a little while residents of Kansas City were able to think of something other than the tragedy that just occurred.
Patriots Defeat Dolphins 23-16: The Patriots clinch their 4h straight AFC East title with their win over the Dolphins. The Patriots are known for finishing the second half very strong, and they held true to that by keeping with that trend. They will be a force in the AFC playoffs like they have been for years now.
Rams Defeat 49ers 16-13: In one of the more controversial decisions, Jim Harbaugh decided to give the starting nod to second-year QB Colin Kaepernick over their previous starter Alex Smith. I don't agree with the move because I don't think someone should lose their starting position to injury. Not only this but Smith led them to nearly a Super Bowl last year and leads the NFL this year with a 70 percent completion percentage. Regardless, these teams tied the last time and nearly did again. The Rams scored their only TD of the game on a fumble/bad pitch by Kaepernick after Janorris Jenkins scooped it up and fell into the end zone. The 49ers had their shot in OT with David Akers but he missed a field goal, then the Rams drove downfield and trusted their rookie kicker Greg "Legatron" Zeurlein, and he delivered.
Jets Defeat Cardinals 7-6: No highlights for this game. Sanchez threw 3 interceptions and was replaced. Only highlight is that TebowTime may be quickly approaching in New York.
Broncos Defeat Buccaneers 31-23: The strong MVP type year for Peyton Manning continues. Manning threw 3 TD's and this win helped clinch the AFC West for the second year for the Broncos.
Bengals Defeat Chargers 20-13: The Chargers have done it again! They let a 4th quarter lead go and end up losing the game. Just like so many games before, the Chargers let me down. By the time I went to voice my frustration on twitter, "#FireNorv" and "#FireAJ" were already trending. I wish I could say that I was more optimistic coming into the year. But this is what Charger fans have come to expect under leadership by Norv Turner and AJ Smith. I would be embarrassed to have Norv coach another game. IT IS TIME FOR A CHANGE!!
Browns Defeat Raiders 20-17: Unless you are a Browns or Raiders fan you probably didn't watch or care about this game. Since I am neither, that's it.
Steelers Defeat Ravens 23-20: In one of the more surprising games of the day, the Steelers went into Baltimore and beat the Ravens without Big Ben, and had their third string QB Charlie Batch play a great game in leading them to the win. A win for the Ravens would have secured a playoff spot. Furthering my point that Joe Flacco IS NOT an elite QB. Regardless of how much Flacco thinks he is.
Cowboys Defeat Eagles 38-33: Romo set the all-time Cowboys TD mark by beating their classic division rival. The Eagles may be the only more disappointing team other than the Chargers and Lions. It appears that Andy Reid's days are numbered in Philly.
Not a whole lot to comment on with the NBA right now. Playoffs are too far away and no big trades have happened yet. Here are my rankings of the Top 5 in the league right now!
San Antonio Spurs- Despite putting out a bunch of scrubs on Thursday night against the defending champion Heat, in Miami, they almost won! This just shows how deep and well-coached the Spurs are. They will be a tough out in the playoffs
Memphis Grizzlies- Another deep team in the same division playing very well. The only reason they aren't number 1 in my rankings is because they just lost to the Spurs on Saturday. Somehow they lost OJ Mayo and appear to be a much better team. Just like the Spurs, the Grizz will be a tough team to beat in the playoffs this year.
Miami Heat- The defending champs have played solid to start the year. They have the best player in the game today and should dominate the Eastern conference just like the last couple years.
Oklahoma City Thunder- They made a big splash to start the season by trading away James Harden when he refused their extension offer. The trade for Kevin Martin is working out well so far and the Thunder have an impressive 14-4 record.
New York Knicks- Rounding out the top 5 are the Knicks. They have been one of the more surprising teams to date. Without their $20 mill/year star Amare Stoudemire they are off to an impressive 12-4 start. They have beaten several good teams and appear to have finally righted the ship in NY. Melo is playing at an MVP level to start the year.
Out of my top 5, and if I did a top 10 they'd be out of my top 10 is my favorite professional team, the Los Angeles Lakers. I don't think I have ever been more excited for a season to start than this one. The additions of Dwight Howard and Steve Nash put huge expectations on a team that has a "championship or bust" mentality every year regardless. After 17 games the Lakers hold an 8-9 record. This is a record even though the team has had about two-thirds of their games at home to start the year. This is a record though of a Lakers team without their top two point guards in Steve Nash and Steve Blake who are both out with injuries. The tip of the iceberg came last night when they lost to Dwight's former team, the Orlando Magic, at home. I couldn't name more than 3 players on the Magic to be honest. Yet, the Lakers let a bunch of no-namers come in and embarrass Lakers fans. Where do they go from here? Sure the offense will be much more efficient once Nash comes back, but it appears to be their defense which is struggling. Do we trade Pau Gasol? One of the top power forwards in the league and great passer? I've been a big Pau critic for a while, because I don't think he plays to his potential a lot of the time. But the trade rumors I hear for him I don't think make sense. Josh Smith's name is talked about a lot, he would be an upgrade defensively, but to play the 4 in D'Antoni's offense when he doesn't have a consistent jumpshot, I say no. I think it ultimately is up to D'Antoni and Kobe. They need to get the team to play hard each and every night like it's the championship. A prime example is last Thursday when the Spurs play the Heat without their starting five (Duncan, Ginobli, Parker and Green sent home, and Leonard is still hurt) and nearly won in Miami. That is a team that regardless of who is on the floor gives you everything they have every single night. Who they play doesn't matter, and I think the Lakers have a bit of cockiness in several of these games they've blown. And it has cost them. Only time will tell, but I think they can turn it around!
– Kyle McCarthy
Posted in Basketball, Football, NBA, NFL, Sports
Tags: Basketball, College Football, Football, NBA, NFL
Oh, you want to know what happened this week in sports? Why don't you let me tell you…
The San Antonio Spurs rested their "Big Three" in a closely contested loss to the defending champions, the Miami Heat last night and sparked a controversy between the Spurs and NBA Commissioner David Stern. Since nobody knew who these players were, the Miami Heat Public Address Announcer had to make up names during the pre-game introductions. He came up with crazy names like: Tiago Splitter (the bad guy from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movies), Boris Diaw (Russian Bad Guy in every movie featuring Russian bad guys), Matt Bonner (hehehe…Oh wait, no, not boner…Nevermind), Patty Mills (The name of the Leprechaun from Lucky Charms), and my personal favorite — Nando de Colo (Just a great name.). Breaking News: That was actually the San Antonio Spurs starting line up.
The Atlanta Falcons defeated the New Orleans Saints last night 23-13 and ended Drew Brees touchdown passing record in consecutive games at 54. The Falcons ended other famous streaks of Drew Brees, such as: Throwing as many interceptions as his team has wins (5), most awful commercials that Drew Brees has been in in a loss, Most consecutive days where you ask yourself, "What the hell is on Drew Brees' face? Is it a birthmark or a scar? OR did he get some crazy disease like ring worm on his face? I hope it's the latter".
On his Facebook, Rolando McClain said "Officially no longer an Oakland Raider…Looking forward to playing for an actual team". Fans were actually more angry that McClain Instagrammed the picture of his status update and then tweeted his Instagram picture. Due to McClain's terrible social networking he was suspended two games by the Raiders and lost over 200,000 followers.
David Wright signed the largest contract in New York Mets history – an 8-year, $140 million contract. Not to be outdone, the New York Yankees decided to sign Rolando McClain (10-year $100 million), Angus T. Jones (Whatever he makes on Two and a Half Men plus one dollar and the copyright to the word "Filth", and Lindsay Lohan (Whatever bottle of alcohol she wants whenever she wants it a.k.a. always).
Rajon Rondo was ejected and later suspended two games by the NBA for pushing Kris Humphries and tackling him into the stands after an altercation. After Kim Kardashian saw the push, she quickly ended her relationship with Kanye West to start dating Rajon Rondo. This just in: They have officially gotten married…And now they are divorced.
On Thanksgiving, Ndamakong Suh's foot collided with force against the groin region of Texans QB Matt Schaub. Suh's thinking may have been a little flawed, overheard by NFL Films microphones, Suh said "I thought if I kicked him hard enough he wouldn't have testicles anymore and you have to have testicles to play in the NFL! Right?…RIGHT?!"
Posted in Basketball, Football, NBA, NFL, Sports, Uncategorized
Tags: Atlanta Falcons, Big Three, David Wright, Drew Brees, Kim Kardashian, Kris Humphries, Matt Schaub, Miami Heat, MLB, NBA, Ndamakong Suh, New Orleans Saints, New York Mets, NFL, Oakland Raiders, Rajon Rondo, Rolando McClain, San Antonio Spurs, Sports
What Happened in Sports This Past Week? Well Let Me Tell You…
– After the Los Angeles Lakers fired Mike Brown, they moved quickly to hire Mike D'Antoni to a three year deal. Previous fans of teams coached by Mike D'Antoni famously removed the "D" from his name, for his lack of coaching on the defensive end. Don't worry Laker fans — Mike 'Antoni will coach Wight Howar and the rest of the Lakers in Hollywoo to eliver a ecisive NBA Championship.
– The Knicks came back in the 4th quarter to defeat the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday to remain undefeated at 6-0. After not resigning Jeremy Lin, the Knicks have been playing the best defense in the NBA. Said star Forward Carmelo Anthony, "Once Coach 'Antoni resigned, we realized there was 26 letters in the alphabet, so from now on you can call me D'Carmelo D'Anthony…It's been a pleasure playing for the D'New D'York D'Knicks in D'Madison D'Square D'Garden". I think he's getting carried away after finding out that "D" is an actual letter.
– The Miami Marlins and Toronto Blue Jays consummated a blockbuster deal that allowed the Marlins to dump over $180 million in contracts. After the trade, there was a huge public uproar over the deal that decimated the Marlins roster…oh wait, there wasn't? People in Miami didn't even know the Marlins were a team? Oh, well in that case…Go Heat? Oh..Miami residents didn't know that the Heat season started either? They must still be at the beach or watching the new season of Dexter.
– As many as four Quarterbacks suffered concussions this past week in the NFL, including Mike Vick and Jay Cutler, who will not be able to play this week. The only fans really disappointed by this outcome are the Fantasy Football Owners who had circled this date on their calendar because their Defenses was going against Vick and Cutler.
-The San Francisco 49ers and St. Louis Rams tied 24-24 for the first tie game in the NFL since 2008. Once the clock hit 0:00 in overtime and the teams and fans started to exit, a fan came running onto the field with a microphone yelling, "WHERE IS EVERYONE GOING? THE GAME ISN'T OVER! FOOTBALL CAN'T END IN A TIE!" It was actually Donovan McNabb who had been admitted to an insane asylum after having a mental breakdown over his last tie four years ago.
– The #1 team in the Nation, Alabama, was upset by Texas A&M on Saturday. Texas A&M was led to victory by Freshman phenom quarterback "Johnny Football". Wow, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Football, got really lucky that they named him that and he played Football. It would've been really awkward if Johnny Football played Cricket or Bat-mitten. Crisis Averted!
– Miguel Cabrera won the AL MVP after receiving 22 of 27 first place votes to defeat Rookie of the Year Mike Trout. Cabrera won in large part due to becoming the first hitter since 1978 to win the Triple Crown. At his press conference to accept the MVP, Cabrera wore three crowns and said, "As King of the American League and Ruler of the three realms of Batting Average, Runs Batted In and Home Runs, I demand that you all bow to me at once!". After slamming his mace into the ground, National League MVP Buster Posey busted the door down and stabbed Cabrera with the World Series Trophy. It was a bloody day for the King of the American League, but the rightful heir to the Realms stood over the bloody corpse of the Triple Crown Winner and showed his supremacy.
Posted in Baseball, Basketball, Championship, Dwight Howard, Finals, Football, Home Run, Jokes, Kobe Bryant, Lakers, Los Angeles, Mike Trouth, MLB, NBA, New York Knicks, NFC West, NFL, San Francisco 49ers, Sports, Spurs
Tags: AL, Alabama, Baseball, Basketball, Football, Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Marlins, NL, Sports, Texas A&M, Toronto Blue Jays

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Yes, after a month of Spirit Tracks and other content updates, we finally have returned to our amazing Wind Waker Walkthrough. After being somewhat delayed, our image specialist, Josh, was finally able to continue making the images to complete the walkthrough.
This is a fairly small section, covering how to get Nayru's Pearl; the third and final pearl. I hope you enjoy, and I look forward to bringing you Chapter 06 soon!


Following the run away success of our Crunchy Snacking Cheese last year, we knew we couldn't leave it long before launching a new flavour.
But what could stand up to that intense, crunchy, cheesiness?
After hours of challenging cheese tastings, and some crazy dreams, we came to the surprising conclusion that rosemary is the answer. The same seriously cheesy flavour but with delicious, piney notes from the chopped rosemary added just before baking. Too much and things get a little herbal, but too little and the Quattrocento cheese takes over, so we've found the perfect balance to ensure both cheese and rosemary not only stand out but work beautifully together.


However, recently, Cheney has not been in agreement with President Obama on many of his administration's decisions.
On Monday, Cheney stated in front of about 300 members of the Wyoming Republican Party that, "The performance now of Barack Obama as he staffs up the national security team for the second term is dismal," The Associated Press reported.
Cheney, a Wyoming native, said it was vital to the nation's national security that "good folks" hold the positions of secretary of state, CIA director and secretary of defense. "Frankly, what he has appointed are second-rate people," he said in reference to defense secretary nominee Chuck Hagel and John Brennan for CIA director.
Brennan faces questions from the GOP about White House leaks of classified information and from Democrats about the administration's use of drones.


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Le Scunthorpe United Football Club est un club de football anglais fondé en 1899.

Le club, basé à Scunthorpe, évolue depuis la saison 2019-2020 en EFL League Two (quatrième division anglaise).

Repères historiques

Fondé en 1899, le club adopte un statut professionnel en 1912, et rejoint la League en 1950 (Division 3-N).

À l'issue de la saison 2021-2022, Scunthorpe est relégué en National League (cinquième division anglaise).

Palmarès et records

 Championnat d'Angleterre de troisième division :
 Champion : 2007

Historique du logo

Joueurs et personnalités du club

Entraîneurs

Le tableau suivant présente la liste des entraîneurs du club depuis 1915.

Joueurs emblématiques

Notes et références

Liens externes

Scunthorpe United Football Club

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


HTC has announced today that it is looking into its bootloader policy as its new smartphones get ready to hit the market. HTC has been getting all the criticism after the reports of the bootloader lock-down in the upcoming flagship Android phone HTC Sensation and other devices.
Locked bootloader prevent modders from flashing custom ROMs on the device, this is a big no-no in the Android developer community.
HTC today posted on their FB page that they are looking in the matter and will review their policy on bootloaders. This does not necessary mean that HTC will unlock the bootloaders, but there is hope that we might get lucky.
Thanks so much for providing feedback, we hear your concerns. Your satisfaction is a top priority for us and we're working hard to ensure you have great experiences with our phones. We're reviewing the issue and our policy around bootloaders and will provide more information soon. Thank you for your interest, support and willingness to share your feedback.
If you recall, Sony Ericsson recently start providing bootloader unlock tools for new Xperia series of Android phones. We hope that HTC also goes that way.


text:
Development wellbeing and justice
Development, Wellbeing and Justice research
Explore our work in development, wellbeing and justice, one of our areas of expertise in Physical and Human Geography
Geographic inequality is rising in many parts of the world – between continents and nations, between northern and southern Europe, and the 'north-south divide' in Britain – and social unrest and political disharmony is rising with it.
Our research in Development, Wellbeing and Justice explores the factors and geographical contexts that contribute to this inequality – from whether an area is socially diverse, rich or poor, urban or rural, to how it is governed and represented politically. We seek to understand how these factors affect the health, wellbeing, and economic and social development of a community.
We're examining whether democratic governance leads to stronger economic growth, and if the dominance of London harms the rest of the UK. We're investigating whether lower-income communities are exposed to greater pollution, studying the differences in the quality of public services across different neighbourhoods, ethnic groups and social classes, and exploring whether living close to green spaces leads to more active, healthier lifestyles.
We're also researching populations around the world at greater risk from natural disasters (such as wildfires and flooding) and resource depletion (such as soil erosion and water shortages). We want to better understand the environmental refugee crises that follow natural disasters and find ways to sustainably manage natural resources and environments.
Our work is frequently published by leading academic journals in the field, including the Journal of Economic Geography, Urban Studies, the British Medical Journal (BMJ) Open, Geopolitics, and the Geographical Journal.
Our research focuses on the following topics
Geographies of Health and Wellbeing
We use various research methods including geo-demographic and spatial analysis using Geographical Information Systems (GIS); statistical analysis of secondary data on the economy, population, land use and environment; qualitative analysis of social media, text and video evidence; and in-depth interviews with decision makers, interest groups and members of the public.
Vision of Britain Through Time: A vision of Britain from 1801 to now, including maps, statistical trends and historical descriptions
Changes in transitions from private renting to homeownership in the context of rapidly rising house prices
Housing Studies Volume 34, 2019, Issue 1, Paul Sissons, Donald Houston
Better the devil you know? A relational reading of risk and innovation in the rural water sector
The Geographical Journal, Volume 183, Issue 3, 2017, p. 210-222, Julia Brown, Marije van den Broek
Evaluating the long-term consequences of air pollution in early life: geographical correlations between coal consumption in 1951/1952 and current mortality in England and Wales
BMJ Open, Volume 8, Issue 4, Phillips DIW, Osmond C, Southall H, et al
Domesticating the Geopolitical: Rethinking Popular Geopolitics through Play
Geopolitics, 2018, DOI: 10.1080/14650045.2018.1527769, Tara Woodyer, Sean Carter
Discover our areas of expertise
Development, wellbeing and justice is one of our 2 areas of expertise in Physical and Human Geography – explore the other area below.
We're looking at how the planet's climate has changed over time, and how human activities – and a growing population – is changing our environment today.
Quality of Life Health and Wellbeing Research Group
We're researching how to enhance our diverse experiences of life focussing on student experience, later years and individuals with learning disabilities.
Peace Conflict and Security Research Group
We're researching the complex reality of the struggles over the meaning of security, citizenship and rights.
Interested in a PhD in Physical & Human Geography?
Browse our postgraduate research degrees – including PhDs and MPhils – at our Physical & Human Geography postgraduate research degrees page.


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"Deborah and the War of the Tanks 1917" – Review by Mark Barnes
Nov 22, 2016 Mark Barnes
When it comes to tanks this centenary year has been filled with highlights. Back in February, I got to see the original plans of the very first Mark I at the Tank Museum. On the same day, I got to sit in a Mark IV Male. In May I managed to get my best snap yet of the famous Tiger 131 after a couple of years of effort. This was followed by the brilliance of Armor & Embarkation when I rode in a jeep leading a column of armoured vehicles through Bovington and into the grounds of the Tank Museum itself. Later in the year I finally got some decent snaps of Jon Phillips' magnificent StuG III Ausf D rumbling round the arena at Beltring. That was swiftly followed by Tank 100 in London when I spent the day with the Tank Museum's running replica of a Mark IV as it lumbered along from Trafalgar Square to Horse Guards where it lined up with a Challenger 2 and mounted troopers from the Blues & Royals. And then there was Deborah….
The lovely Suzanne was determined to see her and contacted the gentleman who led her recovery from the battlefield where she had been buried for eighty years. It took a bit of organising but we made it out to Flesquiéres and spent a memorable hour marvelling at one of the most extraordinary relics of the Great War we will ever see. We spent a couple of days on the Cambrai battlefield visiting important locations from the story and found our way to a few others that are a bit special. History blurs its lines in places like this and we even found time to take in a field where the headquarters of 8th Panzer Division set up camp in May 1940. But Deborah, a twisted and torn shadow of her former self was the star of the trip and probably of the year. We will never forget our time with her but it was just as important to walk round to the British war cemetery to pay our respects to the four members of her crew who died fighting in her in 1917 during the Battle of Cambrai. They share the cemetery with several other tank men. Our plans to return to Flesquiéres are advanced and we cannot wait to go.
The lure of the village and its place in tank warfare history is immensely powerful. The Battle of Cambrai gave the tank men the opportunity to show what they could really do after a difficult start. Doubts about the efficacy of tanks had surfaced in Flanders where the lumbering beasts were defeated by the terrain rather than the enemy. Memories of Flers-Courcelette had evaporated by the start of Third Ypres and the failure of tanks to make any significant impact on proceedings might have been their death knell, but common sense prevailed.
At Cambrai the tanks were going pretty well until they came up against the defenders of Flesquiéres where a screen of German field guns succeeded in knocking far too many out. The story has echoes of the British armor in a later war, lured onto Rommel's anti-tank gun screen time and time again. At Flesquiéres the tanks did amazing work but the German gunners were bravery personified and made them pay a very high price for the glimmer of success that presaged the all arms war to come a year hence.
This outstanding book by John A Taylor tells the story of Deborah, her sisters and the tank pioneers of the latter part of the Great War. It is quite simply the must read book of 2016. Make no bones about it; Mr Taylor has given us one of the best tank warfare books ever written. It will turn your head away from the sexier armor of World War II and beyond, concentrating your mind on the amazing men who fought in the fickle beasts that were the first tanks to see combat.
Crawl inside one of these things and you will be struck by the claustrophobic nightmare facing the crews who fought in them. There is little room inside as it is without the addition of men, ammunition, food, water, petrol and personal kit. There was just enough space for a few homing pigeons and a used shell case to piss in. Unpleasant just doesn't cover it. King George V went for a short ride in one and quickly realized he had seen and heard enough. All this without having to clatter over a broken landscape splashed with incoming fire from a determined enemy.
Mr Taylor treats Deborah as the increasingly important figure central to the story of Cambrai. But this is done with great care allowing the author to bring on board a huge cast of other characters. While Deborah's primacy is never in doubt, Mr Taylor delivers a history where all men, tanks and guns are created equal. The crews are treated with quiet reverence and this has a collateral impact on accompanying British infantrymen and, significantly; the Germans who deserve our respect. There is so much information flowing from the beguiling narrative I was blown away and just like the movie song says I learned things I never knew I never knew.
The book comes with an array of maps and some quite stunning archive photos. I am minded to say that while I fully understand the importance of house style and economics, I think this book could have been a little more grand. Perhaps it could have had a colour section showing more of Claude Rowberry's wonderful paintings and the majesty of Deborah as she is today. Then and now style mages of the battlefield might have added to the effect. I just think that this wonderful book should have been allowed to stand out rather than slip into the ranks of so many others in the publisher's range.
Regardless of this, Mr Taylor has written one of my books of the year. As a tank warfare book it stands out as a future classic. The effect is to draw me in to the history of tank warfare from 1916-18. Britain's tanks were not invulnerable, but they had something others mimicked but could not beat on the battlefield. They were crewed by some of the bravest men the war produced. Equally courageous men would give all to stop them. Mr Taylor honours them all, friend and foe alike. At war's end many of the rhomboid monsters became monuments in British towns until they faded away. Rust never sleeps. You can see some in museums but they are few and far between. Happily Deborah survived as a force for good and she is destined to move into a new home adjacent to where her crew are buried just yards from where they died in 1917.
Right now all you can see is a hole in the ground but a visitor's attraction based on the muddy tomb where Deborah lay will retain the spirit and memories of how she was found back in 1998. The lovely Suzanne and I cannot wait to see her there. This wonderful book will take you to the Cambrai battlefield of 1917 and give you much more besides. So much so you may find the book gives you enough. But I suggest you make plans to visit Deborah. Once seen, never forgotten.
Reviewed by Mark Barnes for War History Online
DEBORAH AND THE WAR OF THE TANKS 1917
By John A Taylor
ISBN: 978 1473848344


Film education is in the Czech context usually understood as an area of education focused on the development of competencies and knowledge of reception, analysis, critical evaluating and practical creation of films. Therefore, film is not perceived as merely a means of teaching or enlightening, but as their subject. Film education is not supposed to have purely informative character but rather formative one. The aim is to cultivate aesthetic-ethical relationship to cinematography and audiovisual culture, and more broadly to art and culture.
On this website you will find information about the situation of film and audiovisual education in the Czech Republic including the guidepost of the most important entities in this field. In the Czech part of the website you can also find news, articles, interviews, invitations to seminars, conferences and festivals, and also the methodological part. Here you can get acquainted with commented Czech and foreign literature about film education, a vocabulary of basic terms and legal advice.
The publisher of filmvychova.cz is the Czech Association for film and audiovisual education, whose members are individuals and organizations active in the field of film and audiovisual education in the Czech Republic. If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact us. We will try to give you advice or to mediate help.
Film/audiovisual education (in Czech F/AV or FAV) was approved in 2010 as an extension of Framework Educational Programs for Elementary Education (FEP EE) and for Secondary General Education (FEP SGE). It is a so-called supplementary education which enables pupils and students to learn about film in non-compulsory objects, but they are still classified for it.
The content of the field was elaborated by a team of authors under the leadership of prof. Rudolf Adler in cooperation with the Pedagogical Research Institute. In particular, the aim of the teaching content should be to 'understand art as a specific way of knowing and to use the language of art as a distinctive means of communication'.
The separate optional subject Film/Audiovisual Education is spreading very slowly in Czech schools. Reasons are many – the subject does not have hourly or financial subsidy, there is a lack of qualified pedagogues, didactics of the field, teaching aids, textbooks, or methodological materials.
Informal education is currently crucial for the film education. While the Film/audiovisual education is being promoted very slowly into the formal education, there are hundreds of spontaneously emerging activities for children, young and adult within the informal education. These activities are usually voluntary. They are organized by children and youth associations and other non-governmental non-profit organizations (NGOs), educational facilities for leisure time activities, educational agencies, clubs, cultural institutions, but also individuals.
We present to you the overview of institutions and projects which are focused on Film/Audiovisual education in the Czech Republic.
Creative Europe–MEDIA Czech Republic – also joins some national film education activities as a representative of a film support and audience support provider.
Ministry of Culture (MK) – central body of state administration in culture. Media and Audiovision Department is in charge of the film education and is a significant supporter of it.
Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports (MŠMT) – central body of state administration for pre-school and school facilities, primary and secondary schools, universities, science policy, research and development.
National Film Archive (NFA) – contributory organization of the Ministry of Culture of the Czech Republic which apart from others develops the film education program.
National Information and Counseling Center for Culture (NIPOS) – contributory organization of the Ministry of Culture. It is also active in non-professional artistic activities including the film education.
National Institute for Education (NUV) – organization of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports which apart from others is in charge of creation of Framework Educational Programs.
Czech Association for film and audiovisual education (also known as AsFAV) is a nationwide platform which brings together non-profit organizations and schools working in the field of film education, but also individuals – professionals, pedagogues, lecturers and experts who know who to teach children and young people about film.
The association supports the development of film and audiovisual education both in school and in leisure activities. We want to raise awareness of film and audiovisual education in the Czech Republic, to improve conditions for the realization of the educational field of film/audiovisual education in Czech schools and activities of film education in informal education, to deepen the interdepartmental and interdisciplinary dialogue about film education a to contribute to the creation of conceptual documents which will lead to intensification and systematization of support for film and audiovisual education in the Czech Republic.
The association is the owner of the filmvychova.cz website and the Facebook page @filmvychova. It also sends regularly newsletters about the activities in film and audiovisual education to interested people (you can subscribe to their Czech version on the home page).
Review brochure for film and audiovusual education in the Czech Republic 2016 – 2017. In addition to the balance sheets and interviews it brings also an overview of contacts and organisations that are active in this field.
A richly illustrated author´s book for children from 7 years focuses on the era of film archeology, invention and beginning of film. In addition to chapters dedicated to each topic of film (pre)history you can find also original interactive instructions for the creation of optic instruments and guidepost which shows the children where to go if they are more interested in films.
Children´s book The Thieves of darkness introduces the functioning of photo chemical film to young readers and attracts them to the its creative use. Three heroes from the world that suppressed darkness discover the secret of the black box and a long-forgotten knowledge associated with deciphering of the mysterious cipher hidden inside. The book also includes a theoretical part explaining the basic principles of the film. It contains extensive illustrations of Vojtěch Horálek.
Review brochure about the initiatives in the field of film/audiovisual education in the Czech Republic. Published in May 2016.
Review brochure of the film and audiovisual education in the Czech Republic in 2014-2015. In addition to the texts dedicated to significant subjets of the film education it brings also the addressbook of contacts.
A new valuable publication was published by the EU program Creative Europe Media. It presents activities connected to the film education in 23 European countries. Unfortunately the Czech Republic is not represented completely by Pastich Filmz, One World in schools, Program of Open Film Education, Aeroškola, Film and School, Animánie, Center for Documentary Film and Ultrafun. Specimens can be ordered free of charge for examples at the Polish Creative Europe office info@kreatywna-europa.eu).
The book summarizes the most important things from the legislation connected to the the production and use of an audiovisual work or record. It begins by explaining to a large extent the artificial concept of "film law" and continues to bring it into the context of copyright. There are very interesting parts about the situation of film legislation in the United States of America.
The first of a series of review publications of the Czech office of the EU program Creative Europe – MEDIA mapping the situation in the field of film and partly also media education in the Czech Republic in 2014. It contains profiles of the most significant subjects working in the film and media education.
Interactive and richly illustrated children's and youth translation book comes in a cardboard box that resembles a movie clapper. Inside you will find the book How the Movie Is Made, which describes the process of film-making to children using digital technology. In addition to production stages, it also focuses on the types of shots, sound or composition. Separate sections of Dave Reeve´s, Clare Richards´s and Tim Grabhan´s chapters deal with narrative, documentary and animated films.
The book by the physics popularizer Radek Chajda is a very practical guide to the basic principles of audiovisual recording and projection technology. We will learn not only how the human eye works and the minimum of the history of imaging technology and Czech cinematography, but also how to make simple optical toys.
The brochure published by the FoE MU offers basic (very brief) insight into the history of media education in our country, but also in selected European countries (France, Great Britain, USA). Publication of two pedagogues from Brno is a summary of the development of audiovisual education (that is how the authors summarize the film and media education) and a practical guide to its use in history lessons, art education, but also as an optional subject.


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The following list links to ongoing projects developed entirely or in part by the Connecticut Sentencing Commission in concert with its university and criminal justice partners. Please click the project link for more information.
Collateral Consequences of Criminal Conviction
Certificates of Employability
In 2014, the General Assembly passed Public Act 14-27, An Act Concerning the Recommendations of the Connecticut Sentencing Commission with Respect to Certificates of Rehabilitation. It should be noted that the Board of Pardons and Paroles (BPP) and the Judicial Branch Court Support Services Division (JB-CSSD) administratively changed the name of certificates of rehabilitation to certificates of employability (COE) to better reflect the intent and purposes of the certificates. The Sentencing Commission used the COE term throughout this study. The statute recognized that criminal convictions can affect an offender's ability to obtain employment or the professional license required in certain occupations. These barriers, along with financial instability, have been linked to higher recidivism. Research shows that offenders who are gainfully employed are rearrested at a lower rate than those who are not employed. The COE process was intended to provide relief from these barriers and thereby potentially reduce the rate of recidivism among offenders issued certificates of employability.
Since October 1, 2014, BPP and JB-CSSD, which administers adult probation, have been authorized to award certificates of employability to eligible offenders. The Sentencing Commission was responsible for evaluating the effectiveness of the certificates of employability in reducing the barriers to employment faced by offenders. The longitudinal evaluation process began on October 1, 2015 — one year after the new law took effect on October 1, 2014 — and ended on January 15, 2018.
The Commission submitted an interim report, as required by law, on June 9, 2016 and approved the final report on December 19, 2018. Its recommendations include proposals to:
clarify standards for assessing COE applications and the implications of a certificate;
promote the COE program among employers, targeting appropriate industries and professions;
consult with stakeholders to identify program improvements to benefit employers and certificate-holders;
simplify the application form and process and consider automatic COE grants at the time of parole release or early termination of probation or conditional discharge;
enhance the state's vocational and education programs for justice-involved individuals; and
permit discretionary revocation of a COE under certain circumstances but repeal the automatic COE revocation requirement.
Documents & Information
Connecticut Certificates of Employability Final Program Evaluation Report
Court Support Services Division Site
Board of Pardons & Paroles Site
Proposed Study of Evidence-Based Sentencing
At its September 2015 meeting, the Sentencing Commission authorized its Research, measurement, and evaluation Committee to distribute a call for proposals regarding a possible study of evidence-based sentencing. Evidence-based sentencing incorporates the results of validated risk and needs assessment measures, in addition to the severity of the instant offense, to determine the likelihood of re-offending and the need for sentences of a different length and/or specialized services. This study seeks to determine: (1) whether sentencing practices in Connecticut, which are most frequently determined through plea agreement, have resulted in sentences that are relatively consistent with sentences that would have resulted from risk and needs assessment-based sentences; (2) what types of offenders are typically sentenced for longer or shorter periods than the assessments would suggest; and (3) the recidivism patterns for offenders whose sentences are congruent with risk and needs assessment, versus those whose sentences deviate from risk and needs assessments. On March 10, 2016, the Commission approved the University of Maryland's proposal to study an evidence-based assessment of sentencing practices in Connecticut. The draft report is expected to be submitted in 2018.
Conference Call Audio
Special Committee on Sex Offenders
Co-Chairs: Stephen Grant & Robert Farr
The special committee on sex offenders (SCSO) was formed by the Commission in June 2015 to assist with the study, develop recommendations, and report to the Commission with its findings. The committee is composed of individuals with a broad base of personal and professional experience with sex offenders in Connecticut.
During the 2015 session, the Connecticut General Assembly passed Special Act 15-2, An Act Concerning A Study of the Sexual Offender Registration System. The act requires the Commission to take a comprehensive look at the registration, management, and sentencing of sexual offenders in Connecticut. The Commission is required to submit reports to the General Assembly on February 1, 2016 and December 15, 2017.
Community & Victim Needs
Co-Chairs: Laura Cordes & Sgt. Matthew Garcia
This subcommittee is charged with studying: victim and survivor needs and services and community education; the registration requirements and the registry established under chapter 969 of the general statutes; the information available to the public and law enforcement regarding sexual offenders; and the community impact of existing sex offender residency restrictions and housing opportunities.
Subcommittee Roster
Assessment & Management
Co-Chairs: David Rentler & Gary Roberge
The subcommittee on sex offender assessment and management was created to study and review: the risk assessment and management of sexual offenders, methods to reduce and eliminate recidivism by individuals convicted of a sexual offense, sexual offender management, the housing opportunities and obstacles for sex offender registrants, and the effectiveness of a tiered classification system based on the risk of re-offense.
Co-Chairs: Brian Austin & Thomas Ullmann
This subcommittee is charged with studying the sentencing of sex offenders and
the options for post-sentence appeals concerning the registry status of a sexual offender registrant.
S.A. 15-2
Sex Offender Report 12/2017
Victim Notification
During the 2015 session, the Connecticut General Assembly passed Public Act 15-84, An Act Concerning Lengthy Sentences for Crimes Committed by a Child or Youth and the Sentencing of a Child or Youth Convicted of Certain Felony Offenses. Section 10 of the Act mandates that the Commission study how "victims may be notified of the parole eligibility laws and any other release mechanisms governing cases where a person is convicted of one or more crimes and receives a definite sentence or total effective sentence of more than two years for such crime or crimes."
The Commission is required to submit a report and recommendations for legislation to the General Assembly no later than February 1, 2016.
The Victim Notification Working Group was formed by the Commission in June 2015 to assist with the study, develop recommendations, and report to the Commission with its findings.
P.A. 15-84
Report & Recommendations
Pretrial Release and Detention in Connecticut
Report to the Governor and General Assembly on Pretrial Release and Detention
Sentence Review, Sentence Modification and Motions to Correct an illegal sentence


Learning to recognize and name the letters of the alphabet is a skill preschoolers are learning when you talk about letter shapes and the sounds letters represent. Just reading an alphabet book straight through without stopping to discuss letter shapes, trace letters and emphasize letter names is unlikely to be very effective teaching the alphabet. Start teaching your child the letters in his or her name first and then move on to other letters.


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Notice of Reception
2023 PERSONAL PROPERTY FILING FORMS
The City of Covington wants to make citizens aware that the 2023 Personal Property filing forms have been ...
CITY CLOSING FOR MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY
The City of Covington would like to make citizens and businesses aware that All City of Covington offices ...
BACK TO NOTICES
The City of Covington will hold a reception to congratulate Allen Dressler as Covington's new City Manager, on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Covington City Hall, Council Chambers, 333 W. Locust Street. The public is invited to attend. Join us in congratulating Mr. Dressler as the new Manager of Covington.
The regular session of City Council will be held in Council Chambers at 6:30 p.m. after the reception.


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Bradford on PAMS' Growth+ program helps budding professionals to unlock their true potential
Enedush on Celebrity show director and fashion show choreographer Utsav Dholakia directs the biggest beauty pageant, Forever Miss & Mrs India
Tommyblast on Niket Patel, A Young Social Worker Honoured By Rajiv Gandhi Award In Delhi
ThomasDuS on Talampally Family from Humnabad celebrates son Akash wedding with a Big Bang
UFO to release Rakshit Shetty's '777 Charlie' in Hindi across India on 10th June; the Hindi trailer to release on 16th May
New Delhi (India), May 11: UFO has come on board to release the Hindi version of 777 Charlie across India. The film starring Rakshit Shetty is also produced by him along with GS Gupta while it marks the directorial debut of Kiranraj K. The Hindi trailer of the film will be unveiled on 16th of May.
The heartwarming adventure comedy-drama originally in Kannada language, will also be released in Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu. While actor Prithviraj Sukumaran has acquired the film to release it in Malayalam, Karthik Subbaraj will be distributing the Tamil version and Rana Daggubati, the Telugu version of the film.
The film will release theatrically on June 10 in all 5 languages.
The earlier released teaser and few songs of the film have already garnered much appreciation.
777 Charlie revolves around an arrogant, unapproachable man, Dharma, working in a manufacturing factory, whose lonely, mundane life is over-run by an enthusiastic dog, Charlie and changes him forever.
"We are excited to be working with UFO as our distribution partner for the Hindi version. The decision of releasing the film pan India was made especially looking at increasing number of people adopting pets post lockdown." Says Rakshit.
UFO Moviez points out that this is the best time to release the film as theatres are operating to full capacity. "The OTT platforms have erased language barriers. 777 Charlie does not feel like a dubbed film in the four other languages. Given its universal subject and its canine hero, we are confident that the film will draw its audiences in every language," says the spokesperson.
777 Charlie also stars Sangeetha Sringeri, Raj B Shetty, Bobby Simha, Sharvari and Praanya P Rao.
KSB Limited launches all new 'Aqua Series' pumps for domestic market
Dhruv Kapoor Appointed as a Member of the Telephone Advisory Committee in Ministry of Communications, Government of India