On Friday the new DataSwift Helpdesk went into limited external testing with a few select clients, so it's actually now being used for real. There are a few known bugs (and almost certainly a number of as-yet undiscovered ones) but the core functionality looks to be stable.
Still, it's early days – hence it still being classed as a Beta release – and there is no inventory facility as of yet. We're going to keep to the Ticketing-only system for a while until we're satisfied there are no more issues with it, then I'll get started on the Inventory module.
I stumbled across this by accident, but if like me you've noticed that Adobe PDF files don't show up properly in file previews in 64-bit Windows 7 or Vista, then Leo Davidson has created a handy tool that fixes the problem. It also fixes thumbnail rendering within Explorer in 64-bit Windows too (except for XP64). Although the fix needs re-applying each time Adobe Reader is updated (until they actually fix it themselves!) it's a digitally signed application, so it should install without any issues. My Windows 7 x64 machine is at work, so I'll have to try it on Monday and see, but by all accounts the fix is a good 'un.
They may not sound like much, but a lot of the rest of the system relies on the above. In fact, the only major part missing before initial test-usage can begin is the time-management module.
At present, tickets created on the help desk track the time spent, but there's no way to see how much time a particular client has used. The Contracts module will allow support agreements to be entered (along with the number of allotted hours, and the hourly rate). It will also cater for non-contract clients too.
Once the ticketing part of the system is up to scratch, the next challenge will be the Inventory module. This will link to the tickets too, so users (and support staff) will be able to look up a particular device, and see its history.
After the Inventory module will come the Knowledge Base. It will be a categorised, searchable archive of solutions to common problems. Help desk tickets will be able to link to articles (and may in time provide suggestions automatically). Users may be able to comment on articles too.
In the far distant future, I hope to provide some kind of link to our quotation system, allowing clients to access quotes on-line. Obviously this -along with most of the rest of the system- requires careful planning from a security point of view, so it may well take a while to implement.
As often happens, I found myself browsing a fairly random assortment of websites yesterday, ending up at Destructoid's review of a new point-and-click puzzle adventure named 'Machinarium' from independent Czech developers Amanita Design. Intrigued by the review I visited the demo version; shortly thereafter I was buying the full game (it's not much, around £12.50). Having played the first few levels, it was definitely money well spent.
The world of Machinarium is realised by way of beautifully drawn backdrops – and they come alive with tiny details; it definitely feels like a well-established place. Other people have written far better reviews than I could hope to produce, so I'll just say that it's got traces of the best point-and-click adventures of old, mingled with the atmosphere -and puzzles- of the Myst series, along with a smattering of subtle humour.
I'm not sure how long ago it reappeared, but Old Scrote's Cookbook is back on-line at a new location. It's a no-nonsense collection of recipes gathered over the years by one man, and the methods are very easy to follow. Comments Off on Old Scrote's Cookbook is back!
The developers of my favourite webmail client – Roundcube, have just announced the official release for version 0.3, which brings with it a bunch of new features and a whole heap of tweaks.
Probably the most interesting addition is plug-in support. Previously, any extra features required patching the main source of the application, which generally resulted in messy and hard-to-maintain code, which was very tricky to upgrade. Now though, there is a complete plug-in API. Hopefully this will mean a veritable deluge of useful add-ons in the not-too-distant future.
For now though, I'll happily make do with the default installation, as it already provides a handy selection of features. It may not be as versatile as SquirrelMail, but it is certainly better looking…!
Had a response from Billion support today, with a link to a pre-release version of the firmware (1.02e.RC1) which fixes the IP translation issue (and has a few other features to boot) – so far, I'm pretty impressed with the company. Assuming it's all pretty stable now, I'll put up a more thorough review in a week or so. Comments Off on Firmware fix!
One upshot of being a little quieter at work during the schools' summer break is that I've been able to work on our new Helpdesk system. It's now almost reached the point where we'll be trialling the ticketing part with a few clients (there's just a few tweaks and some more testing to go).
Eventually the Helpdesk will provide an integrated inventory, knowledge-base and downloads system. Much of the back-end is already present for these, but it's getting the user-interface sorted that takes a fair amount of careful planning.


text:
Jobs saved as Brimar spilt up and sold
Greater Manchester electronics firm Brimar has been split up and sold out of administration, saving 69 jobs.
James Ferguson
But 20 jobs have been lost after Brimar, which specialises in military electronics and cathode ray tubes for the film and TV industries, fell into administration in November last year, blaming the economic climate and difficult trading conditions.
Administrator BDO said it received more than 50 expressions of interest from potential overseas buyers.
Dermot Power, BDO business restructuring partner and joint administrator of Brimar, said: "We are pleased to announce that we have completed the sale of the business of Brimar Limited, with a sale of the vision system display business to Image Precision Limited on 3 May 2013 and the Cathode Ray Tube and Long Range Thermal Imaging business to BAE Display Technologies Limited on 3 June 2013.
"A total of 69 of the 89 jobs have been saved, with 56 employees transferring to BAE and 13 employees to IPL."
Brimar, which is based in Middleton, was founded in 1922 and has previously been owned by companies including Marconi, Edison Swan Electric and Mazda.
It supplies displays, components and electronics for military and civilian aircraft including Boeing jets, the Eurofighter Typhoon and Apache helicopters. The business employs 90 staff.
BAE Systems plc
Manchester City FCOtamendi in, Stones out: Man City predicted line up vs Sheffield UnitedManchester City return to action in the Premier League against Sheffield United on Tuesday.
Angela Rayner MPAngela Rayner condemns 'terrible failure' of Manchester grooming scandal and calls for review of care systemThe Ashton, Droylsden and Failsworth MP and Manchester Central MP Lucy Powell spoke about the scandal in the House of Commons

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Sobek was the first god we wrote about with Mummific. This crocodile god had first appeared in a text when we wrote about King Crocodile.
That's why I did not pay much attention to something green that appeared one night in the corner of the kitchen. I simply walked there the following morning, reading a book about Egyptology while I dug out orange juice out of the fridge. If you have ever immersed yourself in a good book, and don't want to put it down, you know what I was doing.
Still, later in the day, again out of the corner of my eye, I noticed one of our cats was sitting by the water bowl, staring at the water with a rather puzzled look. I thought I'd better change the water (I do change it daily, but cats like to paw the surface of the water before they drink – probably to see the surface better – and if they have kitty litter on their paws, it sinks into the bowl). When I bent down to take the cup, I noticed the cat's reaction had nothing to do with the water itself.
What's that in my drinking bowl?
"MummiFIC!" I shouted, making a mental note my neighbours probably would soon start talking about me behind my back if I did not learn to keep my voice down.
Instead of a story I heard a raspy scream and surprisingly strong mummified hands wrapped around my wrists so that water splashed on my feet and on the cat, who voiced a howly objection and scooted off the kitchen, leaving a trail of water behind. It was like a scene from a Boris Karloff movie. Only the heroine attacked by a mummy probably did not need to wipe the floor dry after a wet cat afterwards.
Mummific paid no attention to me. Still, he had learned from his previous encounter with water (and hair-dryer) and did not step on the splashed water. He backed up a few steps and then went on his knees on the floor. This was a precarious movement and I listened to the cracks and creaks coming from his knees with great concern.
Well, his legs did not fall off, thankfully. Just as I let out a sigh of relief he flopped himself on his stomach to the ground, which action resulted in a definite cloud of dust that made another one of my cats sneeze loudly. When the dust cleared, I bent closer to see whether Mr Mummific had fallen to pieces. Obviously not, as I heard him mumbling something. Maybe his last words?
But no. He just lay there with his dry hands reaching towards the cat bowl and the plastic crocodile he had placed there together with our crocodile-shaped salad tweezers. Behind the water bowl sat a toy crocodile, also wrapped in jewelry.
To me it didn't look likely the plush toy crocodile would pose a horrific threat to my life and health. Still, I could not simply take the toys away, knowing Mummific. I needed him to tell me about Sobek, and not feel insulted and disappear to the afterlife again. Sometimes it is hard to talk with someone who is from a complete different era. I mean you all have talked with old people who tell you about people and music and happenings that you have no connection to, because you are much younger. Imagine that times a thousand, and you know the problems I had with Mummific. And top that with his royal ego… He considered himself the ruler, and me the subject. Also it wasn't exactly easy on him either, when he had no idea about the of way life in our modern times.
Mummific collected his bones and rose with considerable dusty huffing and puffing and crackling back to a standing position.
"You might be right. He did have proper temples in ancient Kemet also, with respectable niches, and his own personnel. Quite discraceful he is no longer respected," Mummific said, bowed at Sobek and stole a sideways glance at me (very carefully, as not to pop out his eyes). I stared elsewhere, pretending not to notice. I did not intend to bow to a stuffed toy crocodile.
I picked up the plastic crocodile and the salad tweezers from the bowl. Mummific snatched the stuffed toy crocodile from me, carrying it reverently in front of him with outstretched arms. Then he turned to look at me impatiently.
I had to figure out quickly where to place mighty toy Sobek. I saw an old glass jar in the corner – it had a sea shell I had bought at a food market in Barcelona on our honeymoon, and another, exotic looking sea shell I had bought from an antique shop as a child. These were on top of smooth white stones from a sea shore in Greece. Also included was a flattened glass bottle of green color – Mummific loved glass objects. Perfect. We placed everything in the jar, which I then lifted on top of a cupboard. I made a mental note where part of my necklaces were now in storage.
Mummific's shrine for the crocodile god.
Mummific seemed happy with the arrangement and observed the newly crated shrine with contentment.
"You seem to like this god," I commented.
"Really? Is that why some kings had Sobek as part of their names?" I asked.
"But of course," Mummific said.
Well, it can't be denied Sobek was indeed an important god for the ancient Egyptians. You may read some facts about him by clicking on the link at the end of this page.
As far as I am concerned, I consider I have done my duty towards the mighty crocodile god. I hope the plush crocodile won't take offense at my disrespectful modern behavior, climb out of its glass temple, and try to take revenge on me.
Hmm... What's this then? A crocodile? Are they edible?


text:
Endocrine System flash cards
These flashcards cover the endocrine system of the human body. These flashcards are perfect for medical students and biology students.
There are 115 flash cards in this set (20 pages to print.)
This file contains 20 printed pages
This set of flash cards belongs to these categories: science
Spanish Months and Days
Learn to Read Music
A condition caused by the overproduction of growth hormone in adults, characterized by a thickening of bones and an enlargement of cartilages and other soft tissues Acromegaly
The portion of the adenohypophysis (anterior lobe of the pituitary gland) that is immediately adjacent to the neurohypophysis (posterior lobe) and the infundibulum. Pars Intermedia
A circulating transport globulin that binds thyroid hormones. Thyroglobulin
The pharyngeal tonsil Adenoids
The enzyme released by cells of the juxtaglomerular complex when renal blood flow declines; converts angiotensinogen to angiotensin I. Renin
Cells of the pancreatic islets that secrete insulin in response to elevated bloodsugar concentrations. Beta cells
An important neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Dopamine
Reproductive organs that produce gametes and hormones. Gonads
The overactivity of glands that produce exocrine or endocrine secretions. Hypersecretion
The floor of the diencephalon; the region of the brain containing centers involved with the subconscious regulation of visceral functions, emotions, drives, and the coordination of neural and endocrine functions Hypothalamus
Neural tissue in the posterior portion of the roof of the diencephalon; secretes melatonin. Pineal gland
Hormones secreted by the zona fasciculata of the suprarenal (adrenal) cortex to modify glucose metabolism; cortisol and coticosterone are important examples. Glucocorticoids
The posterior pituitary, or pars nervosa; stores and releases OXT and ADH Neurohypophysis
A hypothalamic regulatory hormone that inhibits growth hormone secretion by the adenohypophysis; also called somatostatin. Growth hormone - inhibiting hormone (GH-IH)
The core of the suprarenal (adrenal) gland, a modified sympathetic ganglion that secretes catecholamines into the blood during sympathetic activation; also called adrenal medulla. Suprarenal medulla
A class of steroid sex hormones that includes estradiol Estrogens
Supporting cells of the seminiferous tubules of the testis; respponsible for the differentiation of spermatids, the maintenance of the blood-testis barrier, and the secretion of inhibin, androgen-binding protein, and Mullerian-inhibiting factor; also called nurse cells. Sustentacular cells
Abnormally low rates of exocrine or endocrine secretion Hyposecretion
Body weight 10-20 percent above standard values as a result of body fat accumulation. Obesity
A passageway that carries spermatozoa from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct; also called the vas deferens. Ductus deferens
A steroid hormone produced by the suprarenal (adrenal) cortex. Corticosteroid
Corticosteroids produced by the zona glomerulosa of the suprarenal (adrenal) cortex; steroids such as aldosterone that affect mineral metabolism. Mineralocorticoid.
Aggregations of endocrine cells in the pancreas; also called islets of Langerhans. Pancreatic islets
The blood protein produced by the liver that is converted to angiotensin I by the enzyme renin. Angiotensinogen
A compound containing a relatively small carbohydrate group attached to a large protein. Glycoprotein
The large, anterior portion of the adenohypophysis (anterior lobe of the pituitary gland). Pars distalis
Follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone, hormones that stimulate gamete development and sex hormone secretion. Gonadotropins.
A hormone synthesized in the hypothalamus and secreted at the neurohypophysis (posterior lobe of the pituitary gland); causes water retention at the kidneys and an elevation of blood pressure. Antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
Organic compounds whose chemical structure can be summarized as R-CHNH2-COOH. Amino acids
Loose connective tissue dominated by adipocytes. Adipose tissue
A catecholamine neurotransmitter in the peripheral nervous system and central nervous system, released at most sympathetic neuromuscular and neuroglandular junctions, and a hormone secreted by the suprarenal (adrenal) medulla; also called noradrenaline. Norepinephrine
The hormone produced by the activation of angiotensinogen by renin; angiotensin-converting enxyme converts angiotensin I into angiotensin II in the lung capillaries. Angiotensin I
The region of the suprarenal (adrenal) cortex that secretes mineralocrticoids. Zona glomerulosa
T3, a thyroid hormone Triiodothyronine.
A hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands when plasma calcium levels fall below the normal range; causes increased osteoclast activity, increased intestinal calcium uptake, and decreased calcium ion loss at the kidneys. Parathyroid hormone (PTH)
The neurohypophysis (posterior lobe of the pituitary gland). Pars nervosa
A ball or knot; in the kidneys, a knot of capillaries that projects into the enlarged, proximal end of a nephron; the site of filtration, the first step in the production of urine. Glomerulus
The hormone that stimulates functional development of the mammary glands in females; a secretion of the adenohypophysis (anterior lobe of the pituitary gland). Prolactin
An enzyme bound to the inner surfaces of plasma membranes that can convert ATP to cyclic-AMP; also called adenylyl cyclase. Adenylate cyclase
A condition caused by the oversecretion of suprarenal (adrenal) steroids. Cushing disease.
A compound that is secreted by one cell and travels through the circulatory system to affect the activities of cells in another portion of the body. Hormone
An inorganic compound consisting of a cation other than H1 and an anion other than OH2. Salt
A reduction in the diameter of arterioles due to the contraction of smooth muscles in the tunica media; elevates peripheral resistance; may occur in response to local factors, through the action of hormones, or from the stimulation of the vasomotor center. Vasoconstriction
Four small glands embedded in the posterior surface of the thyroid gland; secrete parathyroid hormone. Parathyroid glands
Thyrosine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), hormones of the thyroid gland; stimulate tissue metabolism, energy utilization, and growth. Thyroid hormones
The core of the suprarenal (adrenal) gland; a modified sympathetic ganglion that secretes catecholamines into the blood during sympathetic activation; also called suprarenal medulla. Adrenal medulla
The principal androgen produced by the intersitial cells of the testes. Testosterone
The portion of the adenohypophysis (anterior lobe of the pituitary gland) that wraps around the infundibulum superior to the neurohypophysis (posterior lobe). Pars tuberalis
The most important progestin secreted by the corpus luteum after ovulation. Progesterone.
The hormone, produced by the adenohypophysis (anter-ior lobe of the pituitary gland), that triggers the secretion of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
A corticosteroid secreted by the zona fasciculata of the suprarenal (adrenal) cortex; a glucocorticoid. Corticosterone
A hormone that causes an elevation in systemic blood pressure, stimulates the secretion of aldosterone, promotes thirst, and causes the release of antidiuretic hormone; angiotensin-converting enzyme in lung capillaries converts angiotensisn I into angiotensin II. Angiotensin II
The network of vessels that carries blood from capillaries in the hypothalamus to capillaries in the adenohypophysis (anterior lobe of the pituitary gland). Hypophyseal portal system
The superficial portion of the suprarenal (adreanal) gland that produces steroid hormones; also called the adrenal cortex. Suprarenal cortex
Polyuria due to inadequate production of antidiuretic hormone. Diabetes insipidus
A cell membrane; plasmalemma. Plasma membrane
The hormone secreted by C cells of the thyroid when calcium ion concentrations are abnormally high; restores homeostasis by increasing the rate of bone deposition and the rate of calcium loss at the kidneys. Calcitonin
A small endocrine gland that secretes steroids and catecholamines and is located superior to each kidney; also called adrenal gland. Suprarenal gland
See pancreatic islets. Islets of Langerhans
A narrow band of tissue connecting two larger masses. isthmus
A receptor sensitive to changes in the osmolarity of plasma. Osmoreceptor
One of the essential fatty acids. Arachidonic acid
A hormone secreted by the alpha cells of the pancreatic islets; elevates blood glucose concentrations. Glucagon
Compounds stimulating tissue growth; released by the liver after the secretion of growth hormone; also called insulin-like growth factors. Somatomedins
A hormone released by tissues, especially the kidneys, exposed to low oxygen concentrations; stimulates erythropoiesis (red blood cell formation) in bone marrow. Erythropoietin
A corticosteroid secreted by the zona fasciculata of the suprarenal (adrenal cortex; a glucocorticoid. Cortisol
A hormone produced by hypothalamic cells and secreted into capillaries at the neurohypophysis (posterior lobe of the pituitary gland); stimulates smooth muscle contractions of the uterus or mammary glands in females and the prostate gland in males. Oxytocin
A hormone secreted by the pineal gland; inhibits secretion of MSH and GnRH. Melatonin
Any steroid produced by the suprarenal (adrenal) cortex. Adrenocortical hormone
An endocrine organ that is situated in the sella turcica of the sphenoid and is connected to the hypothalamus by the indundibulum; includes the neurohypophysis (posterior lobe) and the adenohypophysis (anterior lobe); also called the hypophysis. Pituitary gland
A hormone secreted by beta cells of the pancreatic islets; causes a reduction in plasma glucose concentrations. Insulin
See prostaglandin Local hormone
The hormone that stimulates the production and secretion of glucocorticoids by the zona fasciculata of the suprarenal (adrenal) cortex; released by the adenohypophysis (anterior lobe of the pituitary gland) in response to corticotropin-releasing hormone. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)
The presence of glucose in urine. Glycosuria
An endocrine gland whose lobes are lateral to the thyroid cartilage of the larynx. Thyroid gland
A tapering, funnel-shaped structure; in the brain, the connection between the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus; in the uterine tube, the entrance bounded by fimbriae that receives the oocyes at ovulation. Infundibulum
A gland that secretes hormones into the blood. Endocrine gland
An enzyme that breaks down polysaccharides; produced by the salivary glands and pancreas. Amylase
Also called lutropin; a hormone produced by the adenohypophysis (anterior lobe of the pituitary gland). In females, it assists FSH in follicle stimulation, triggers ovulation, and promotes the maintenance and secretion of endometrial glands. In males, it was formerly called intersitial cell-stimulating hormone because it stimulates testosterone secretion by the intersitial cells of the testes. Luteinizing hormone
A fatty acid secreted by one cell that alters the metabolic activities or sensitivities of adjacent cells; also called local hormone. Prostaglandin
Hormones released by specialized cardiocytes when they are stretched by an abnormally large venous return; promotes fluid loss and reductions in blood pressure and in venous return. Includes atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP). Natriuretic peptides (NP)
The stimulation of energy production and heat loss by thyroid hormones. Calorigenic effect
A lymphoid organ, the site of T cell formation. Thymus
Steroid hormones structurally related to cholesterol; progesterone is an example. Progestins
A hormone, produced by the pars intermedia of the adenohypophysis (anterior lobe of the pituitary gland), that stimulates melanin production. Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH)
A thyroid hormone; also called T4 or tetraiodothyronine. Thyroxine
cells that produce exocrine or endocrine secretions. Gland
See norepinephrine. Noradrenaline
The region of the suprarenal (adrenal) cortex that secretes androgens. Zona reticularis
A compnent of the urinary system; an organ functioning in the regulation of plasma composition, including the excretion of wastes and the maintenance of normal fluid and electrolyte balances. Kidney
A homrmone secreted by the adenohypophysis (anterior pituitary); stimulates oogenesis (female) and spermatogenesis (male). Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
The superficial portion of the suprarenal (adrenal) gland that produces steroid hormones; also called the suprarenal cortex. Adrenal cortex
A small endocrine gland that secretes steroids and catecholamines and is located superior to each kidney; also called suprarenal gland. Adrenal gland
The exocrine secretion of the liver; stored in the gallbladder and ejected into the duodenum. Bile
The anaerobic cytoplasmic breakdown of glucose into lactic acid by way of pyruvic acid, with a net gain of two ATP molecules. Glycolysis
The synthesis of glucose from protein of lipid precursors. Gluconeogenesis
The endocrine (ductless) glands/organs of the body. Endocrine system
See natriuretic peptides Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP)
Epinephrine, norepinephrine, dopamine, and related compounds. Catecholamine
The releasing hormone, secreted by the hypothalamus, that stimulates secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone by the adenohypophysis (anterior lobe of the pituitary). Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)
The pituitary gland Hypophysis
A digestive organ containing exocrine and endocrine tissues; the exocrine portion secretes pancreatic juice, and the endocrine portion secretes hormones, including insulin and glucagon. Pancreas
A steroid sex hormone primarily produced by the interstitial cells of the testis and manufactured in small quantities by the suprarenal (adrenal) cortex in either gender. Androgen
Connections between cells that permit electrical coupling. Gap junctions
The region of the suprarenal (adrenal) cortex that secretes glucocorticoids. Zona fasciculata
The addition of a high-energy phosphate group to a molecule. Phosphorylation
The maintenance of a relatively constant internal environment. Homeostasis
Polyuria and glycosuris, most commonly due to the inadequate production or diminished sensitivity to insulin with a resulting elevation of blood glucose levels. Diabetes mellitus
An adenohypophysis (anterior pituitary) hormone that stimulates tissue growth and anabolism when nutrients and abundant and restricts tissue glucose dependence when nutrients are in short supply. Growth hormone (GH)
Growth hormone; produced by the adenohypophysis (anterior pituitary) in response to growth hormone-releasing hormone (GH-RH). Somatotropin
An unconscious, continuous movement of the eyes as if to adjust to constant motion. Nystagmus
Movement toward the axis or midline of the body, as viewed in the anatomical position. Adduction
Thymic hormones essential to the development and differentiation of T cells. Thymosins
A mineralocorticoid produced by the zona glomerulosa of the suprarenal (adrenal) cortex; stimulates sodium and water conservation at the kidneys; secreted in response to the presence of angiotensin II. Aldosterone


text:
Leia: Princess of Alderaan
Narrated by
Saskia Maarleveld
Takes place in
3 BBY
Stand Alone Novels
Publisher's SummaryBooks in this SeriesYoutini ReviewVideo ReviewStaff ReviewsCommunity ReviewsVideosCollections
In keeping with Alderaanian tradition, Princess Leia undergoes her Day of Demand, where she claims her right as heir to the throne and sets forth how she will prove herself worthy. Yet things have been tense between her and her adopted parents, Queen Breha and Viceroy Bail Organa. As Leia - also a member of the Empire's Apprentice Legislature - undertakes her challenges of the Body, Mind, and Spirit, she learns more about her adoptive parents than she ever suspected and begins her own journey that will forever change the galaxy.
Claudia Gray excels at taking on the challenge of portraying one of the most important and beloved characters in the entire Star Wars mythos, and along the way treats us to compelling depictions of other on-screen characters as diverse as the former Captain Panaka, the future Vice Admiral Holdo, and Bail Organa. This book presents the not-to-be-missed backstory of how Leia became the fearless rebel we meet, and love, in the films.
Sixteen-year-old Princess Leia Organa faces the most challenging task of her life so far: proving herself in the areas of body, mind, and heart to be formally named heir to the throne of Alderaan. She's taking rigorous survival courses, practicing politics, and spearheading relief missions to worlds under Imperial control. But Leia has worries beyond her claim to the crown. Her parents, Breha and Bail, aren't acting like themselves lately; they are distant and preoccupied, seemingly more concerned with throwing dinner parties for their allies in the Senate than they are with their own daughter.
Determined to uncover her parents' secrets, Leia starts down an increasingly dangerous path that puts her right under the watchful eye of the Empire. And when Leia discovers what her parents and their allies are planning behind closed doors, she finds herself facing what seems like an impossible choice: dedicate herself to the people of Alderaan--including the man she loves--or to the galaxy at large, which is in desperate need of a rebel hero...
View the entire
Eric Eilersen
After rocking the EU with Star Wars: Bloodline, Claudia Gray continued her dive into Leia's life by going back to her early days on Alderaan. This book absolutely flies by as we follow our favorite Princess's trials on her way to the throne, the growing tension of her relationship with her parents (shout out to my main man, Bail Organa), the excitement of a first love, and the initial threads of a lifelong friendship with the future Admiral Holdo. All hail Claudia Gray, and all hail the rightful Princess of Alderaan.
Roundtables & Related Videos
Star Wars Books About Leia | A Youtini Guide
Best Star Wars Young Adult Books | A Youtini Guide
Collections that Feature this Book
Star Wars Women
Bail Organa


At the beginning of the school year, Corvian third graders participate in the NC Beginning of Grade (BOG) testing. Corvian students also take End-of-Grade (EOG) tests beginning in Grade 3. While we acknowledge the reality of standardized test-taking, we do not teach to the test. Rather, we engage the students in meaningful hands-on experiences linked directly to the curriculum.
At the end of each test-taking year, students participate in a thematic study focusing on how to successfully and confidently take a test. During this 6-week period, students are engaged in test-taking strategies that encompass a variety of skills. Through the use of mini lessons, workshops, small-groups, partner activities, songs, games, and brain gym activities, students become more confident in their ability to be successful on the big days.


Available for rent from the 01st October 2018 is this comfortable flat containing 3 bedrooms inclusive of a master bedroom with air conditioning, a large kitchen entwined with open plan living, and an internal laundry. All bedrooms have built in wardrobes with ceiling fans. It is light and airy and well secured.
Available for $1500 per month.


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text:
Q: How to shade text in different colors? I need a single character in two colors. Figuring I could use the shadings library of TikZ, I followed the manual (section 23.4.1, the TikZ example):
\documentclass{article}

\usepackage{tikz}
\usetikzlibrary{fadings,shadings}

\begin{document}

\begin{tikzfadingfrompicture}[name=mixed 4]
  \node[text=transparent!0] {$4$};
\end{tikzfadingfrompicture}
\fbox{\tikz[scale=10]\shade[path fading=mixed 4,top color=orange,bottom color=purple]
  (0,0) rectangle (2ex,2ex);}

\end{document}

However, the result is no good for two reasons:

*

*The surrounding box is far too large; it's not possible to use the
character in text of formulae.

*Only the center part of the shading is visible in the character, rendering it almost invisible.

How can I make the shading apply only to the character, without any surrounding space?
If it's easier, I can also do without the shading but a hard change of colors, that is something like this (gimped):

The angle of the separation line is not that important.

A: Here is another suggestion:
\documentclass[varwidth,margin=5mm]{standalone}

\usepackage{tikz}
\usetikzlibrary{fadings}

\newcommand\fadingtext[3][]{%
  \begin{tikzfadingfrompicture}[name=fading letter]
    \node[text=transparent!0,inner xsep=0pt,outer xsep=0pt,#1] {#3};
  \end{tikzfadingfrompicture}%
  \begin{tikzpicture}[baseline=(textnode.base)]
    \node[inner sep=0pt,outer sep=0pt,#1](textnode){\phantom{#3}};
    \shade[path fading=fading letter,#2,fit fading=false]
    (textnode.south west) rectangle (textnode.north east);%
  \end{tikzpicture}%
}

\begin{document}
\setlength\fboxsep{0pt}
\fbox{%
  \fadingtext[scale=10]{top color=orange,bottom color=purple}{$4$}%
}
\end{document}

You can use this to color text:

Code:
\documentclass[varwidth,margin=5mm]{standalone}
\usepackage{tikz}
\usetikzlibrary{fadings}
\newcommand\fadingtext[3][]{%
  \begin{tikzfadingfrompicture}[name=fading letter]
    \node[text=transparent!0,inner xsep=0pt,outer xsep=0pt,#1] {#3};
  \end{tikzfadingfrompicture}%
  \begin{tikzpicture}[baseline=(textnode.base)]
    \node[inner sep=0pt,outer sep=0pt,#1](textnode){\phantom{#3}};
    \shade[path fading=fading letter,#2,fit fading=false]
    (textnode.south west) rectangle (textnode.north east);%
  \end{tikzpicture}%
}
\usepackage{lipsum}
\begin{document}
\setlength\fboxsep{0pt}
\fbox{%
  \fadingtext[scale=4]{top color=orange,bottom color=purple}{$4$}%
}

A short test with green and purple: \fadingtext{left color=green,right color=purple}{green to purple}

\noindent\fadingtext{top color=blue,bottom color=red,middle color=green!80!black}{\parbox[b]{\linewidth}{\strut\lipsum[1]}}
\end{document}

Here is an additional suggestion with a sharp border between the two colors:

Code:
\documentclass[margin=5mm,varwidth]{standalone}
\usepackage[utf8]{inputenc}
\usepackage{tikz}
\usepackage{lipsum}
\tikzset{
    bctleft/.style={.},
    text left/.style={bctleft/.append style={#1}},
    bctright/.style={.},
    text right/.style={bctright/.append style={#1}},
}
\newcommand\bicolortext[2][]{%
    \tikz[baseline=(n.base),inner sep=0pt,outer xsep=0pt,#1]{
      \node(n){\phantom{#2}};
      \foreach \a/\c in {north west/bctleft,south east/bctright}{
        \begin{scope}
          \clip(n.south west)--(n.\a)--(n.north east)--cycle;
          \node[\c]at(n){#2};
        \end{scope}
      }}}
\begin{document}
\tikzset{text left=orange,text right=purple}
    \setlength\fboxsep{0pt}
    \fbox{%
      \bicolortext[scale=4,transform shape]{$4$}%
    }

    A short test with green and purple: \bicolortext[text left=green, text right=purple]{green to purple}

    \noindent\bicolortext{\parbox[b]{\linewidth}{\strut\lipsum[1]}}
\end{document}

With TikZ version 3.0 you can also use the transparency group=knockout option. Then it is possible to shade diagonal. But AFAIK only Acrobat Reader shows the correct result, because only this viewer is able to handle transparencies.

Code:
\documentclass[varwidth,margin=5mm]{standalone}
\usepackage{tikz}
\newcommand\fadingtext[3][]{%
  \begin{tikzpicture}[baseline=(textnode.base)]
    \node[shade,#2,inner sep=0pt,outer sep=0pt,#1,shading angle=45](textnode){\phantom{#3}};
    \begin{scope}[transparency group=knockout]
      \fill[white](textnode.south west)rectangle(textnode.north east);
      \node[opacity=0,inner sep=0pt,outer xsep=0pt,#1]{#3};
    \end{scope}
  \end{tikzpicture}%
}
\usepackage{lipsum}
\begin{document}
\setlength\fboxsep{0pt}
\fbox{\fadingtext[scale=10]{top color=orange,bottom color=purple}{$4$}}

A short test with green and purple: \fadingtext{left color=green,right color=purple}{green to purple}

\noindent\fadingtext{top color=blue,bottom color=red,middle color=green!80!black}{\parbox[b]{\linewidth}{\strut\lipsum[1]}}
\end{document}

A: Another solution exploiting the text rendering modes of the PDF specification to render the text as a clipping path:
\documentclass[border=5]{standalone}
\usepackage{tikz}
\newcommand\shadetext[2][]{%
  \setbox0=\hbox{{\special{pdf:literal 7 Tr }#2}}%
  \tikz[baseline=0]\path [#1] \pgfextra{\rlap{\copy0}} (0,-\dp0) rectangle (\wd0,\ht0);%
}
\begin{document}
Some
\shadetext[left color=yellow, right color=red, middle color=purple, shading angle=45]{\Large\bfseries shaded}
text
\end{document}

Although it uses PDF specials, the nice thing about this approach is it is easy to extend it to use an arbitrary picture:
\documentclass[border=5]{standalone}
\usepackage{tikz,lipsum}
\newbox\textpicturebox
\tikzset{text picture/.style={%
  path picture={%
   \pgfmathsetlengthmacro\textpicturewidth{\wd\textpicturebox}%
   \pgfmathsetlengthmacro\textpictureheight{\ht\textpicturebox+\dp\textpicturebox}%
   \pgftransformshift{\pgfpointanchor{path picture bounding box}{center}}%
   #1}}}%
\newcommand\shadetext[2][]{%
  \setbox\textpicturebox=\hbox{{\special{pdf:literal 7 Tr }#2}}%
  \tikz[baseline=0]\path \pgfextra{\rlap{\copy\textpicturebox}} [#1] (0,-\dp\textpicturebox) rectangle (\wd\textpicturebox,\ht\textpicturebox);
}
\begin{document}
\shadetext[fill=black, text picture={
  \tikzset{shift=(90:2)}
  \fill [green!75!brown] (-0.25,0) rectangle (0.25,-7);
  \fill [green!75!brown] (0,-7) [rotate=-45]  arc (270:-90:0.5 and 2);
  \fill [green!75!brown] (0,-7) [rotate=45]  arc (270:-90:0.5 and 2);
  \foreach \i [evaluate={\o=mod(\i/30,2)*100;}] in {0,30,...,330}
    \fill [red!\o!pink]
       (0,0) -- (\i:3) .. controls ++(\i:1cm) and ++(\i+30:1) .. (\i+30:3) -- cycle;
  \fill [yellow] circle [radius=1.5];
  }]{\Large\bfseries\begin{minipage}{4in}\lipsum[1]\end{minipage}}
\end{document}

A: Here is a solution with pstricks, and more precisely with pst-grad and  pst-text. It is compilable with pdf LaTeX, and the box size can be changed with \psframebox[framesep=…]{…}:
\documentclass[pdf, x11names]{article}
\usepackage{pst-grad,pst-text}
\psset{framesep=2pt}
\begin{document}

Some text
\begin{tabular}{lll}
\psframebox[linecolor = Coral1!20]{%
    \pscharpath[linestyle=none,%
    fillstyle=gradient,gradend=IndianRed4,gradbegin=IndianRed1,
    gradmidpoint=1]{\LARGE\bfseries 4}}
    & \psframebox[linecolor = Coral1!20]{%
    \pscharpath[linestyle=none,%
    fillstyle=gradient,gradend=IndianRed4,gradbegin=IndianRed1,
    gradmidpoint=1]{\Large\bfseries 4}}
    & \psframebox[linecolor = Coral1!20]{%
    \pscharpath[linestyle=none,%
    fillstyle=gradient,gradend=IndianRed4,gradbegin=IndianRed1,
    gradmidpoint=1]{\bfseries 4}}
\end{tabular}

\end{document}

A: It is possible to create a more reasonable box by printing the character again and anchoring the shading at this node:
\fbox{
  \begin{tikzpicture}[scale=10]
    \node [text=white,inner sep=0pt,outer sep=0pt] (textnode) {$4$};
    \shade[path fading=mixed 4,fit fading=false,top color=orange,bottom color=purple]
    (textnode.south west) rectangle (textnode.north east);
  \end{tikzpicture}
}

I followed this answer.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
namespace google {
namespace cloud {
namespace monitoring_internal {
GOOGLE_CLOUD_CPP_INLINE_NAMESPACE_BEGIN

Options DashboardsServiceDefaultOptions(Options options);

GOOGLE_CLOUD_CPP_INLINE_NAMESPACE_END
}  // namespace monitoring_internal
}  // namespace cloud
}  // namespace google

#endif  // GOOGLE_CLOUD_CPP_GOOGLE_CLOUD_MONITORING_INTERNAL_DASHBOARDS_OPTION_DEFAULTS_H

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Chris Murphy on Health Care
Senate Challenger; Democratic Rep. (CT-5)
I'm a huge supporter of the public option
Bysiewicz said she was a supporter of the Affordable Care Act, President Obama's signature health care legislation that is currently being reviewed by the Supreme Court, and that if the law was struck down by the court steps needed to be taken to pass a similar bill in the future that guaranteed health care access. "Everyone in America deserves access to quality, affordable health care," Bysiewicz said. "There are many people who are just one very bad test result away from getting very sick and losing their home or losing all of their financial wealth."
Murphy said that Congress would not be able to just "re-pass" the health care law if the Supreme Court were to overturn it, and at that point it might be time to consider a public option for health care in the United States. "I'm a huge supporter of the public option," Murphy said. Source: East Haven Patch on 2012 CT Senate debates , Apr 9, 2012
Right to health care, not just sick care
I support health care reform because I believe that quality, affordable health care coverage should be a right, not a privilege available only to those who can afford it. I truly believe that a national system of health care can insure every American and cost us less than our current bloated and inefficient "sick care" system.
On the Connecticut Public Health Committee, I made the fight for increased access to health care my defining mission as a public servant. Source: 2010 House campaign website, www.chrismurphy.com, "Issues" , Jul 16, 2011
Voted NO on the Ryan Budget: Medicare choice, tax & spending cuts.
Proponent's Arguments for voting Yes:
[Sen. DeMint, R-SC]: The Democrats have Medicare on a course of bankruptcy. Republicans are trying to save Medicare & make sure there are options for seniors in the future. Medicare will not be there 5 or 10 years from now. Doctors will not see Medicare patients at the rate [Congress will] pay.
[Sen. Ayotte, R-NH]: We have 3 choices when it comes to addressing rising health care costs in Medicare. We can do nothing & watch the program go bankrupt in 2024. We can go forward with the President's proposal to ration care through an unelected board of 15 bureaucrats. Or we can show real leadership & strengthen the program to make it solvent for current beneficiaries, and allow future beneficiaries to make choices.
Opponent's Arguments for voting No:
[Sen. Conrad, D-ND]: In the House Republican budget plan, the first thing they do is cut $4 trillion in revenue over the next 10 years. For the wealthiest among us, they give them an additional $1 trillion in tax reductions. To offset these massive new tax cuts, they have decided to shred the social safety net. They have decided to shred Medicare. They have decided to shred program after program so they can give more tax cuts to those who are the wealthiest among us.
[Sen. Merkley, D-OR]: The Republicans chose to end Medicare as we know it. The Republican plan reopens the doughnut hole. That is the hole into which seniors fall when, after they have some assistance with the first drugs they need, they get no assistance until they reach a catastrophic level. It is in that hole that seniors have had their finances devastated. We fixed it. Republicans want to unfix it and throw seniors back into the abyss. Then, instead of guaranteeing Medicare coverage for a fixed set of benefits for every senior--as Medicare does now--the Republican plan gives seniors a coupon and says: Good luck. Go buy your insurance. If the insurance goes up, too bad. Reference: Ryan Budget Plan; Bill HCR34&SCR21 ; vote number 11-HV277 on Apr 15, 2011
Voted NO on repealing the "Prevention and Public Health" slush fund.
Congressional Summary:Amends the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) to repeal provisions establishing and appropriating funds to the Prevention and Public Health Fund (a Fund to provide for expanded and sustained national investment in prevention and public health programs to improve health and help restrain the rate of growth in private and public sector health care costs). Rescinds any unobligated balanced appropriated to such Fund.
[Rep. Pitts, R-PA]: Section 4002 of PPACA establishes a Prevention and Public Health Fund, which my bill, H.R. 1217, would repeal. The PPACA section authorizes the appropriation of and appropriates to the fund from the Treasury the following amounts:
$500 million for FY 2010
$750 million for FY11
$1 billion for FY12
$1.25 billion for FY13
$1.5 billion for FY14
and for FY15 and every fiscal year thereafter, $2 billion.
We have created a slush fund from which the Secretary of HHS can spend without any congressional oversight or approval. I would suggest to my colleagues that, if you wanted more funding to go towards smoking cessation or to any other program, the health care law should have contained an explicit authorization. By eliminating this fund, we are not cutting any specific program. This is about reclaiming our oversight role of how Federal tax dollars should be used.
[Rep. Waxman, D-CA]: This bill represents the Republicans' newest line of attack to disrupt, dismantle, and to ultimately destroy the Affordable Care Act. For many years, Republicans have joined with Democrats in supporting programs to prevent disease, to promote health and, in turn, to cut health care costs. But today, the House will vote to end funding for the first and only Federal program with dedicated, ongoing resources designed to make us a healthier Nation. Reference: To repeal the Prevention and Public Health Fund; Bill H.1217 ; vote number 11-HV264 on Apr 13, 2011
Voted YES on regulating tobacco as a drug.
Congressional Summary:Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) to provide for the regulation of tobacco products by the Secretary of Health and Human Services through the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Defines a tobacco product as any product made or derived from tobacco that is intended for human consumption. Excludes from FDA authority the tobacco leaf and tobacco farms.
Opponent's argument to vote No:Rep. HEATH SHULER (D, NC-11): Putting a dangerous, overworked FDA in charge of tobacco is a threat to public safety. Last year, the FDA commissioner testified that he had serious concerns that this bill could undermine the public health role of the FDA. And the FDA Science Board said the FDA's inability to keep up with scientific advancements means that Americans' lives will be at risk.
Proponent's argument to vote Yes: Rep. HENRY WAXMAN (D, CA-30): The bill before us, the Waxman-Platts bill, has been carefully crafted over more than a decade, in close consultation with the public health community. It's been endorsed by over 1,000 different public health, scientific, medical, faith, and community organizations.
Sen. HARRY REID (D, NV): Yesterday, 3,500 children who had never smoked before tried their first cigarette. For some, it will also be their last cigarette but certainly not all. If you think 3,500 is a scary number, how about 3.5 million. That is a pretty scary number. That is how many American high school kids smoke--3.5 million. Nearly all of them aren't old enough to buy cigarettes. It means we have as many boys and girls smoking as are participating in athletics in high schools. We have as many as are playing football, basketball, track and field, and baseball combined. Reference: Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act; Bill HR1256&S982 ; vote number 2009-H187 on Apr 2, 2009
Voted YES on expanding the Children's Health Insurance Program.
Reauthorizes State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) through FY2013 at increased levels.
Gives states the option to cover targeted low-income pregnant women
Phases out coverage for nonpregnant childless adults.
Proponent's argument to vote Yes:
Rep. FRANK PALLONE (D, NJ-6): In the last Congress, we passed legislation that enjoyed bipartisan support as well as the support of the American people. Unfortunately, it did not enjoy the support of the President, who vetoed our bill twice, and went on to proclaim that uninsured children can simply go to the emergency room to have their medical needs met. As the Nation moves deeper into a recession and unemployment rates continue to rise, millions of Americans are joining the ranks of the uninsured, many of whom are children. We can't delay. We must enact this legislation now.
Opponent's argument to vote No:Rep. ROY BLUNT (R, MI-7): This bill doesn't require the States to meet any kind of threshold standard that would ensure that States were doing everything they could to find kids who needed insurance before they begin to spend money to find kids who may not have the same need. Under the bill several thousands of American families would be poor enough to qualify for SCHIP and have the government pay for their health care, but they'd be rich enough to still be required to pay the alternative minimum tax. The bill changes welfare participation laws by eliminating the 5-year waiting period for legal immigrants to lawfully reside in the country before they can participate in this program. In the final bill, we assume that 65% of the children receiving the benefit wouldn't get the benefit anymore. It seems to me this bill needs more work, would have benefited from a committee hearing. It doesn't prioritize poor kids to ensure that they get health care first. Reference: SCHIP Reauthorization Act; Bill H.R.2 ; vote number 2009-H016 on Jan 14, 2009
Voted YES on overriding veto on expansion of Medicare.
Extends Medicare to cover additional preventive services.
Includes body mass index and end-of-life planning among initial preventive physical examinations.
Eliminates by 2014 [the currently higher] copayment rates for Medicare psychiatric services.
Pres. GEORGE W. BUSH's veto message (argument to vote No):
I support the primary objective of this legislation, to forestall reductions in physician payments. Yet taking choices away from seniors to pay physicians is wrong. This bill is objectionable, and I am vetoing it because:
It would harm beneficiaries by taking private health plan options away from them.
It would undermine the Medicare prescription drug program.
It is fiscally irresponsible, and it would imperil the long-term fiscal soundness of Medicare by using short-term budget gimmicks that do not solve the problem.
In addition, H.R. 6331 would delay important reforms like the Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies competitive bidding program. Changing policy in mid-stream is also confusing to beneficiaries who are receiving services from quality suppliers at lower prices. In order to slow the growth in Medicare spending, competition within the program should be expanded, not diminished.
Proponent's argument to vote Yes: Sen. PATTY MURRAY (D, WA): President Bush vetoed a bill that would make vital improvements to the program that has helped ensure that millions of seniors and the disabled can get the care they need. This bill puts an emphasis on preventive care that will help our seniors stay healthy, and it will help to keep costs down by enabling those patients to get care before they get seriously ill. This bill will improve coverage for low-income seniors who need expert help to afford basic care. It will help make sure our seniors get mental health care. Reference: Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act; Bill HR.6331 ; vote number 2008-H491 on Jul 15, 2008
Voted YES on giving mental health full equity with physical health.
Paul Wellstone Mental Health and Addiction Equity Act of 2008: Requires group health plans to apply the same treatment limits on mental health or substance-related disorder benefits as they do for medical and surgical benefits (parity requirement).
Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008: Prohibits a group health plan from adjusting premium or contribution amounts for a group on the basis of genetic information.
SUPPORTER'S ARGUMENT FOR VOTING YES:Rep. PALLONE. This is a comprehensive bill which will establish full mental health and addiction care parity. The Mental Health Parity Act of 1996 authorized for 5 years partial parity by mandating that the annual and lifetime dollar limit for mental health treatment under group health plans offering mental health coverage be no less than that for physical illnesses. This bill requires full parity and also protects against discrimination by diagnosis.
OPPONENT'S ARGUMENT FOR VOTING NO:Rep. DEAL of Georgia: I am a supporter of the concept of mental health parity, but this bill before us today is not the correct approach. This path will raise the price of health insurance, and would cause some to lose their health insurance benefits and some employers to terminate mental health benefits altogether.
The bill's focus is also overly broad. Our legislation should focus on serious biologically-based mental disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, not on jet lag and caffeine addiction, as this bill would include. There are no criteria for judicial review, required notice and comment, or congressional review of future decisions.
I would ask my colleagues to vote "no" today so that we can take up the Senate bill and avoid a possible stalemate in a House-Senate conference on an issue that should be signed into law this Congress.
LEGISLATIVE OUTCOME:Bill passed House, 268-148 Reference: Mental Health and Addiction Equity Act; Bill H.R.1424 ; vote number 08-HR1424 on Mar 5, 2008
Voted YES on Veto override: Extend SCHIP to cover 6M more kids.
OnTheIssues Explanation: This vote is a veto override of the SCHIP extension (State Children's Health Insurance Program). The bill passed the House 265-142 on 10/25/07, and was vetoed by Pres. Bush on 12/12/07.
CONGRESSIONAL SUMMARY: This Act would enroll all 6 million uninsured children who are eligible, but not enrolled, for coverage under existing programs.
PRESIDENT'S VETO MESSAGE: Our goal should be to move children who have no health insurance to private coverage--not to move children who already have private health insurance to government coverage. My Administration strongly supports reauthorization of SCHIP. [But this bill, even with changes, does not meet the requirements I outlined].
It would still shift SCHIP away from its original purpose by covering adults. It would still include coverage of many individuals with incomes higher than the median income. It would still result in government health care for approximately 2 million children who already have private health care coverage.
SUPPORTER'S ARGUMENT FOR VOTING YES:Rep. DINGELL: This is not a perfect bill, but it is an excellent bipartisan compromise. The bill protects health insurance coverage for some 6 million children who now depend on SCHIP. It provides health coverage for 3.9 million children who are eligible, yet remain uninsured. Together, this is a total of better than 10 million young Americans who, without this legislation, would not have health insurance.
The bill makes changes to accommodate the President's stated concerns.
It terminates the coverage of childless adults in 1 year.
It prohibits States from covering children in families with incomes above $51,000.
It contains adequate enforcement to ensure that only US citizens are covered.
It encourages securing health insurance provided through private employer.
LEGISLATIVE OUTCOME:Veto override failed, 260-152 (2/3rds required) Reference: SCHIP Extension; Bill Veto override on H.R.3963 ; vote number 08-HR3963 on Jan 23, 2008
Voted YES on adding 2 to 4 million children to SCHIP eligibility.
Allows State Children's Health Insurance Programs (SCHIP), that require state legislation to meet additional requirements imposed by this Act, additional time to make required plan changes. Pres. Bush vetoed this bill on Dec. 12, 2007, as well as a version (HR976) from Feb. 2007.
Rep. DINGELL: This is not a perfect bill, but it is an excellent bipartisan compromise. The bill provides health coverage for 3.9 million children who are eligible, yet remain uninsured. It meets the concerns expressed in the President's veto message [from HR976]:
It terminates the coverage of childless adults.
It targets bonus payments only to States that increase enrollments of the poorest uninsured children, and it prohibits States from covering families with incomes above $51,000.
Rep. DEAL: This bill [fails to] fix the previous legislation that has been vetoed:
On illegal immigration: Would the verification system prevent an illegal alien from fraudulently using another person's name to obtain SCHIP benefits? No.
On adults in SCHIP: Up to 10% of the enrollees in SCHIP will be adults, not children, in the next 5 years, and money for poor children shouldn't go to cover adults.
On crowd-out: The CBO still estimates there will be some 2 million people who will lose their private health insurance coverage and become enrolled in a government-run program.
Veto message from President Bush:
Like its predecessor, HR976, this bill does not put poor children first and it moves our country's health care system in the wrong direction. Ultimately, our goal should be to move children who have no health insurance to private coverage--not to move children who already have private health insurance to government coverage. As a result, I cannot sign this legislation. Reference: Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act; Bill H.R. 3963 ; vote number 2007-1009 on Oct 25, 2007
Voted YES on requiring negotiated Rx prices for Medicare part D.
Would require negotiating with pharmaceutical manufacturers the prices that may be charged to prescription drug plan sponsors for covered Medicare part D drugs.
This legislation is an overdue step to improve part D drug benefits. The bipartisan bill is simple and straightforward. It removes the prohibition from negotiating discounts with pharmaceutical manufacturers, and requires the Secretary of Health & Human Services to negotiate. This legislation will deliver lower premiums to the seniors, lower prices at the pharmacy and savings for all taxpayers.
It is equally important to understand that this legislation does not do certain things. HR4 does not preclude private plans from getting additional discounts on medicines they offer seniors and people with disabilities. HR4 does not establish a national formulary. HR4 does not require price controls. HR4 does not hamstring research and development by pharmaceutical houses. HR4 does not require using the Department of Veterans Affairs' price schedule.
Opponents support voting NO because:
Does ideological purity trump sound public policy? It shouldn't, but, unfortunately, it appears that ideology would profoundly change the Medicare part D prescription drug program, a program that is working well, a program that has arrived on time and under budget. The changes are not being proposed because of any weakness or defect in the program, but because of ideological opposition to market-based prices. Since the inception of the part D program, America's seniors have had access to greater coverage at a lower cost than at any time under Medicare.
Under the guise of negotiation, this bill proposes to enact draconian price controls on pharmaceutical products. Competition has brought significant cost savings to the program. The current system trusts the marketplace, with some guidance, to be the most efficient arbiter of distribution. Reference: Medicare Prescription Drug Price Negotiation Act; Bill HR 4 ("First 100 hours") ; vote number 2007-023 on Jan 12, 2007
Improve services for people with autism & their families.
Murphy co-sponsored improving services for people with autism & their families
Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to:
convene, on behalf of the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee, a Treatments, Interventions, and Services Evaluation Task Force to evaluate evidence-based biomedical and behavioral treatments and services for individuals with autism;
establish a multi-year demonstration grant program for states to provide evidence-based autism treatments, interventions, and services.
establish planning and demonstration grant programs for adults with autism;
award grants to states for access to autism services following diagnosis;
award grants to University Centers of Excellence for Developmental Disabilities to provide services and address the unmet needs of individuals with autism and their families;
make grants to protection and advocacy systems to address the needs of individuals with autism and other emerging populations of individuals with disabilities; and
award a grant to a national nonprofit organization for the establishment and maintenance of a national technical assistance center for autism services and information dissemination.
Directs the Comptroller General to issue a report on the financing of autism services and treatments.
Source: Promise for Individuals With Autism Act (S.937 & HR.1881) 07-HR1881 on Apr 17, 2007
Establish a national childhood cancer database.
Murphy co-sponsored establishing a national childhood cancer database
Conquer Childhood Cancer Act of 2007 - A bill to advance medical research and treatments into pediatric cancers, ensure patients and families have access to the current treatments and information regarding pediatric cancers, establish a population-based national childhood cancer database, and promote public awareness of pediatric cancers.
Authorizes the Secretary to award grants to childhood cancer professional and direct service organizations for the expansion and widespread implementation of:
activities that provide information on treatment protocols to ensure early access to the best available therapies and clinical trials for pediatric cancers;
activities that provide available information on the late effects of pediatric cancer treatment to ensure access to necessary long-term medical and psychological care; and
direct resource services such as educational outreach for parents, information on school reentry and postsecondary education, and resource directories or referral services for financial assistance, psychological counseling, and other support services.
Legislative Outcome: House version H.R.1553; became Public Law 110-285 on 7/29/2008. Source: Conquer Childhood Cancer Act (S911/HR1553) 07-S911 on Mar 19, 2007
Require insurers to cover breast cancer treatment.
Murphy co-sponsored Breast Cancer Patient Protection Act
Congressional Summary: Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), the Public Health Service Act, and the Internal Revenue Code to require coverage and radiation therapy for breast cancer treatment.
Prohibits restricting benefits for any hospital length of stay to less than 48 hours in connection with a mastectomy or breast conserving surgery or 24 hours in connection with a lymph node dissection; or
Prohibits requiring that a provider obtain authorization from the plan for prescribing any such length of stay.
Congressional Findings:
According to the American Cancer Society, excluding cancers of the skin, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women.
An estimated 40,480 women and 450 men died from breast cancer in 2008, and an estimated 182,460 new cases of invasive breast cancer were diagnosed in women, plus 1,990 cases in men.
Most breast cancer patients undergo some type of surgical treatment.
Treatment for breast cancer varies according to type of insurance coverage and State of residence.
Currently, 20 States mandate minimum inpatient coverage after a patient undergoes a mastectomy.
Breast cancer patients have reported adverse outcomes, including infection and inadequately controlled pain, resulting from premature hospital discharge following breast cancer surgery.
Source: H.R.111 11-HR111 on Jan 5, 2011
Increase funding for occupational & physical therapy.
Murphy signed Medicare Access to Rehabilitation Services Act (MARS)
Medicare Access to Rehabilitation Services Act of 2011 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to repeal the cap on outpatient physical therapy, speech-language pathology, and occupational therapy services of the type furnished by a physician or as an incident to physicians' services.
SEC. 2. OUTPATIENT THERAPY CAP REPEAL.
Section 1833 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395(l)) is amended by striking subsection (g).
[Explanatory note from Wikipedia.com "Therapy Cap"]:
In 1997 Congress established per-person Medicare spending limits, or "therapy cap" for nonhospital outpatient therapy, but responding to concerns that some people with Medicare need extensive services, it has since placed temporary moratoriums on the caps. The therapy cap is a combined $1,810 Medicare cap for physical therapy and speech language pathology, and a separate $1,810 cap for occupational therapy ($1870 for 2011). Medicare patients requiring rehabilitation from disabilities, car accidents, hip injuries, stroke, and other ailments would be limited to roughly two months worth of treatments at an outpatient therapy clinic. Any patients that exceed the cap, whether they are healed or not, would have to stop therapy, or pay for the therapy services out of their own pocket.Several medical associations have lobbied against therapy caps because the bill inadvertently restricted disabled seniors, stroke patients, and other severe cases from receiving therapy treatments. Source: HR.1546&S829 11-HR1546 on Apr 14, 2011
Establish a public insurance option via healthcare Exchanges.
Murphy co-sponsored Public Option Deficit Reduction Act
Amends the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act [PPACA, known as ObamaCare] to require Exchanges to offer a public health insurance option that ensures choice, competition, and stability of affordable, high-quality coverage throughout the United States. Declares that the primary responsibility is to create a low-cost plan without compromising quality or access to care. Sets forth provisions related to the establishment and governance of the public health insurance option, including that such plan:
may be made available only through Exchanges;
must comply with requirements applicable to other health benefits plans offered through such Exchanges; and
must offer bronze, silver, and gold plan levels.
Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to:
establish an office of the ombudsman for the public health insurance option;
collect such data as may be required to establish premiums and payment rates;
establish geographically adjusted premiums at a level sufficient to fully finance the costs of the health benefits provided and administrative costs related to the operation of the plan; and
establish payment rates and provide for greater payment rates for the first three years.
Requires repayment of start-up costs for the public health insurance option. Authorizes the Secretary to utilize innovative payment mechanisms and policies to determine payments for items and services under the public health insurance option. Source: H.R.191 11-HR191 on Jan 5, 2011
Merge Alzheimers diagnosis and care benefit.
Murphy co-sponsored HOPE for Alzheimer's Act
Congressional Summary:The purpose of this Act is to increase diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, leading to better care and outcomes for Americans living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Congress makes the following findings:
As many as half of the estimated 5.2 million Americans with Alzheimer's disease have never received a diagnosis.
An early and documented diagnosis and access to care planning services leads to better outcomes for individuals with Alzheimer's disease.
Combining the existing Medicare benefits of a diagnostic evaluation and care planning into a single package of services would help ensure that individuals receive an appropriate diagnosis as well as critical information about the disease and available care options.
Proponent's argument for bill: (The Alzheimer's Association, alz.org). The "Health Outcomes, Planning, and Education (HOPE) for Alzheimer's Act" (S.709/H.R. 1507) is one of the Alzheimer's Association's top federal priorities for the 113th Congress. The HOPE for Alzheimer's Act would improve diagnosis of Alzheimer's diseas Source: S.709/H.R. 1507 13-S0709 on Apr 11, 2013
Keep ObamaCare's prevention, treatment, & recovery services.
Murphy signed keeping ObamaCare's prevention, treatment, & recovery services
Excerpts from Letter from 20 Senators to President Trump: Repealing the Affordable Care Act (ACA) with no clear plan for replacement will substantially worsen the opioid epidemic. Last year, Congress took important steps to address this national public health crisis, enacting two bipartisan laws to address the opioid epidemic and reform the way our health system treats mental health and substance use disorders.
The Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act improved access to substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery services. It promoted the use of best practices when prescribing opioid pain-killers, strengthening state prescription drug monitoring programs, and expanding access to the life-saving drug naloxone.
The 21st Century Cures Act also included critical mental health and substance use disorder reforms, strengthening enforcement of mental health parity laws, promoting the integration of physical and mental health care. Most importantly, the 21st Century Cures Act dedicated $1 billion in new grant funding, which will be essential to helping states provide prevention, treatment, and recovery services to patients These bipartisan advances will be fundamentally undermined by repeal of the ACA.
Opposing argument: (Warren, D-MA, in StatNews.com, 11/28/2016): Senator Elizabeth Warren railed against the 21st Century Cures, saying the bill had been "hijacked" by the pharmaceutical industry. "I cannot vote for this bill,'' Warren said. "I will fight it because I know the difference between compromise and extortion." The current legislation includes $500 million for the FDA, well below the amount Democrats had sought. Warren and Washington Senator Patty Murray have long argued that they would only support Cures legislation that included significant investment in basic medical research. While Warren said she supported many of the provisions, she called others "huge giveaways" to the drug industry. Source: Letter Regarding Fighting the Opioid Crisis 17LTR-ACA on Feb 3, 2017
Keep healthcare mandate, according to CC survey.
Murphy opposes the CC survey question on healthcare mandate
The Christian Coalition Voter Guide inferred whether candidates agree or disagree with the statement, 'Repealing the Nationalized Health Care System that Forces Citizens to Buy Insurance ' Christian Coalition's self-description: "Christian Voter Guide is a clearing-house for traditional, pro-family voter guides. We do not create voter guides, nor do we interview or endorse candidates." Source: Christian Coalition Surve 18CC-5 on Jul 1, 2018
Click here for a Wikipedia profile of Chris Murphy.
Click here for a Ballotpedia profile of Chris Murphy.
Click here for SenateMatch quiz answers by Chris Murphy.
Click here for a summary of Chris Murphy's positions on all issues.
Click here for issue positions of other CT politicians.
Click here for issue statements from CT primary archives.
Click here for issue statements from CT secondary archives.
Other candidates on Health Care: Chris Murphy on other issues:
CT Gubernatorial:
Bob Stefanowski
Dan Malloy
Danny Drew
Joe Visconti
Mark Lauretti
Ned Lamont
Peter Lumaj
Prasad Srinivasan
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Ann-Marie Adams
August Wolf
Dan Carter
Jack Orchulli
Matthew Corey
CT politicians
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Campaign website:
www.chrismurphy.com
Cannon HOB 412, Washington, DC 20515


Generally speaking, we love our youngsters. Of course they may be a challenge sometimes, but especially when they are old enough to get their driver's license, we have a certain amount of pride because moment, remembering to when we first got our very own driver's license. But that pride can quickly fade whenever we talk with our auto insurance company to see how much extra cash it is going to cost to incorporate our newly licensed teen to become insured for driving the household car, as well as in the future, their particular car.
We be worried about that too, again thinking back to the days once we were teens but got our driver's license, and some of the things that we did with all the car our parents still have no idea about to this day. The accident and injury statistics for teen drivers can't be argued with, they've got more of both, understanding that keeps us awake on those Friday and Saturday nights until they get safely home.
The key to make the whole equation much simpler is to be able to find cheap car insurance for the teen drivers. If you were with the same auto insurance company for a long time, this might be considered a good time for you to test the waters and see what else is available, since that company might not be keeping pace with all the discounts available, despite teen drivers inherited.
Even so, having a teen driver is going to be more expensive no matter which way you look at it. But having said that, there are ways to minimize the additional costs of having a teen driver, and letting you find the cheap car insurance policy you'll need while still providing sufficient coverage in case there is mishap.
Some motor insurance companies offer a discount in case your teen driver has had a driver's education course. Make sure the course is certified like a real driver education course that explains risks towards the attendee.
Explain to she or he that good grades are mandatory, since virtually all car insurance companies will give a discount as a student that looks after a certain grade point average, which is typically around a 3.0 (B average) and should be achievable from your teen. Again, car insurance companies deal with statistics, and the ones statistics show that more teens may take place with accidents when they have a lower grade point average. This is not the area to explain why that is the situation, but nonetheless, it really is.
Explain to your child that driving has responsibilities and several of those responsibilities include obeying traffic laws. Should you and your teen can maintain a driving record without tickets or accidents, most motor insurance companies will reward you having a lower premium on their "safe driver discount".
In the event you also carry insurance coverage or some other type of insurance, see what sort of additional discount you may get by having those plans with this insurance carrier. Many insurance carriers provides an additional discount on all policies employing their "multiple product discount" program, but be sure to compare that you aren't ultimately paying more for all your insurance policies.
This entry was posted in Motorcycle Insurance and tagged car payment calculator, Florida dmv, one way car rental on February 19, 2011 by admin.
Traveling out on the open road in a journey trailer is a dream that tens of millions of people share. Many of them are fortunate enough understand that dream. Some accomplish that as weekend warriors, out to pack as a lot enjoyable as they will into the short house of a weekend. Others take a 12 months off to journey, leaving their job and different obligations for a life on the road. Still others wait until they retire, then take off for months or years at a time.
Whatever the manner you journey or for what causes, in the event you who personal a travel trailer you know that the secure wager is to get it insured. In a approach, insurance for travel trailers is a bit like insuring a house AND a car at the same time. For this, special travel trailer insurance coverage is needed.
Journey trailers differ from motorized recreational automobiles (RVs) solely in a single essential means: they lack their own inside motor and braking system. These trailers have to be attached to and/or towed behind another automobile resembling a van or pickup truck.
* travel trailers: these range in dimension from 10 to 35 feet long. They've a hard outer shell and sometimes have extendible sides to create a larger dwelling space.
* folding tenting trailers/pop-ups: these are the least-costly type of RV. Because the title implies, they pop-up or unfold during setup.
* truck campers: additionally called slide-on campers, truck campers clamp onto the again of a pickup truck.
RV insurance has many of the similar varieties of protection choices as does traditional car/auto insurance. Choices that you have available to you embody: uninsured motorist, accent coverage, liability, and unlimited towing coverage.
In addition to the usual types of protection accessible that are listed above, additionally, you will have the chance to purchase any of plenty of specialty insurance coverage objects, resembling: complete loss alternative, 24/7 roadside help, emergency expenses, full-timer coverage, fireplace, flood & theft, low branch collision, and private objects replacement. Select those who meet your anticipated needs.
As you shop for the perfect journey trailer insurance coverage charges, be sure that to get quotations from multiple insurers. Specifically, get quotes from a mixture of insurance company types, including from these specializing in RV insurance and from a number of of the bigger, basic auto insurance companies. You by no means know where the perfect rate will come from.
This entry was posted in Motorcycle Insurance and tagged RV Motorcycle insurance article, RV Motorcycle insurance guide, RV Motorcycle insurance information, RV Motorcycle insurance tips on November 16, 2010 by admin.
Like most points done initially, buying the 1st life insurance coverage even offers a big effect on one's existence. You get your own initial lifetime guarantee insurance plan when you are getting hitched, or perhaps turn out to be a mother or father the first time or perhaps get a home loan as well as mortgage or when these upheaval comes about! Sometimes you may even implement it should your girl concerns a person consequently or even in case your good friend is definitely an especially insistent insurance agent! Right now it might be which while getting you enable the surrounding situations trouble anyone so that you find the very first plan which comes your way without investigating the identical in detail. A little time invested in purchasing the proper insurance plan might help you make payment for premiums at the small term life insurance charge.
You ought to have crystal clear understanding of your requirements and the essential policies available. Find out all the details concerning accessible plans. Just like any devices, you should tackle a few product research before you purchase the particular coverage.
You have to know of terminology such as insurance plan quotations etc and still have thought about exactly what meaning. Estimate could be the brief kind of quote and such as any devices this the actual basis of all brings home. You should make an application for the quotes. Life insurance quotations will be the first step toward the particular rates. Your quality you should pay out will probably be according to this charge. For that reason, the importance of life-insurance costs as well as rates cannot be overemphasized.
Don't forget how you get eye-port looking along with examine the available goods on the market prior to making an investment? How come life-insurance be an exception? Check out a few trustworthy insurance plan companies to find the life-insurance rates. Examine these kinds of quotes for you to attract data away from these. An insurance coverage broker is also a great source to acquire quotes through. Both the agent and also the service provider should make you submit a form prior to giving you the quotations. The particular quotes are generally, with greatest, only the approximation. However they make up the basis of life-insurance rates.
This entry was posted in Motorcycle Insurance and tagged cheap dental insurance, dental insurance for individuals, full coverage dental insurance, whole life insurance quotes on October 19, 2010 by admin.


"Following a chequered career, I dabbled in journalism, copywriting and graphic design before falling into architectural drafting by way of being an AutoCAD jockey. Born and raised in South Africa, I moved to NZ 6 years back and have fallen in love with the place.
Yeah, nah – design software is a fair way off reading minds, but I would like to see a more integrated approach to software. Not one software solution for every purpose – but the best software for the job as needed. And the products of the software seamlessly integrate with each other without BIM managers pulling their hair out – AGAIN!
"Four days to hang out with a bunch of Revit Geeks – what more could you want?


Being on a low calorie diet could mean a diet that ranges between 850-1500 kcals per day. This is so designed with the aim of losing about half to 1 kg per week. The alternative to this is a very low calorie diet which is designed for short term weight loss goal, and is more commonly used with people with a BMI over 30 (obese category). Here, the calorie restrictions go from 800 to lower kcals per day.
What do the LCD and VLCD diets do?
A LCD is seen as a long term diet that will produce results at a slower pace but will help lose weight at a steady rate. Instead of achieving rapid loss of weight, it works by building on the weight loss week by week. The calorie intake is to be restricted to 1,200 to 1,500 calories per day for women and 1,500 to 1,800 calories per day for men. Women should not restrict themselves to fewer than 1,000 calories per day and men to fewer than 1,200 calories per day without consulting a healthcare professional.
Whereas, a VLCD is based off 800 kcals or less per day (depending on person to person, based on requirements.) Unlike LCDs, VLCDs are majorly made up of liquid diets, soups, bars and meal replacement shakes that replace your normal meals and give fewer calories while being nutrient dense. This type of diet is used to promote quick weight loss, often as a way to jump-start an obesity treatment program.
In a LCD, the diet having fewer calories than you normally eat, it is likely that the body will go under starvation mode. And in such a condition it is natural for the body to look at other sources of energy other than food (like muscles and fat) for energy. This may make you lose some amount of muscle mass from the body, initially. However, to overcome this you will need to ensure that the diet you eat is balanced, has ample amounts of protein and is not going to leave you starving.
A VLCD is usually meant as a clinically supervised diet that needs close monitoring. Please do not try this adventure on your own, without medical supervision. The risk of being on a VLCD for too long may result in digestive problems, fluctuations in energy levels and in some cases, cause gallstones as a result of rapid weight loss, which may need to be removed surgically. However, this is more likely to happen in an unsupervised kind of a diet which is why it is to be avoided be persons who are not obese or need severe restrictions in diet. This type of diet is strictly meant as a starting push for people who are obese or grossly obese and have no luck in losing weight otherwise.
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Filming of the movie is having an economic impact now and might help the region land other film projects down the road.
Starring Burt Reynolds and Ariel Winter, 'Dog Years' began filming last week and is scheduled to wrap up at the end of next week. Locations all over town, from Neyland Stadium at the University of Tennessee to the Henley Bridge to a home off Broadway in North Knoxville, have been used.
We welcome everyone associated with the film and wish them success. The filming in legendary director Clarence Brown's hometown gives East Tennessee the opportunity to show Hollywood production companies that the region is a picture-perfect location.
Knoxville is integral to the plot of the movie. Reynolds plays an aging actor invited to Nashville to accept a lifetime achievement award at a film festival. When things don't go as expected in Nashville, his designated driver, played by Winter (ABC's 'Modern Family'), takes Reynolds' character to his hometown, Knoxville.
Chevy Chase has a role in the film, and casting calls attracted thousands of locals hoping to catch on as extras.
Mandt called Knoxville 'a character in the movie.' There also are behind-the-scenes connections between Whitener Entertainment Group, which is producing the film. Whitener CEO Gordon Whitener and the firm's president and chief financial officer, Brett Thomason, are UT graduates. Richie Walls, the chief operating officer, has family in the area.
The immediate economic impact is already being felt. The Knoxville Film Office at Visit Knoxville and the Tennessee Entertainment Commission worked closely with the producers to find suitable locations, crew members, hotel accommodations, vendors and other support services. The producers have raved about Knoxvillians' interest in the project and their hospitality.
Long-term, the film might help East Tennessee land other film projects. Already established as a television production hub, Knoxville has potential to attract more movies, and the state offers incentives for film production, including grants and rebates.
For now, though, Knoxvillians should enjoy the show unfolding on the streets and in the landmarks of the city.


You may return most new, unopened items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund. We'll also pay the return shipping costs if the return is a result of our error (you received an incorrect or defective item, etc.). Refunds are less shipping costs and a restocking fee of 20%. No returns on grill islands.
The exceptions to the above are Non-Returnable items due to the nature of the products. These items can not be returned for a refund: Portable spa/hot tub units, Spa covers, filter cartridges that is used or has been wet, spa equipment packs, heaters and any electrical items (such as circuit boards, spa control panels, contactors, switches, sensors, transformers, pumps and motors). Manufacturer's warranty still apply and can be returned for warranty only. Maximum manufacturer's warranty on electronics is 6 months.
Orders placed after 11 am (PST) will not ship until the next business day. We can ship to virtually any address in the United States. Note that there are restrictions on some products, and some products cannot be shipped to international destinations. Most products will be shipped within 7-10 business days. Any orders placed over the weekend including holidays will not ship out until the next business working day.


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Arm-Overlapping Heart Tattoo
Posted on September 27, 2007 by Shannon Larratt
Done by Pete at Artem in Riga, Latvia.
This entry was posted in ModBlog and tagged Body Modification, Tattoos by Shannon Larratt. Bookmark the permalink.
29 thoughts on "Arm-Overlapping Heart Tattoo"
Jani on September 27, 2007 at 4:16 pm said:
Nice tattoo! I generally like positive tattoos that spread the love!
Mr.will on September 27, 2007 at 4:17 pm said:
fucking awesome. love the colour. great tattoo!
MistahG on September 27, 2007 at 4:28 pm said:
John Constantine discovers LOVE.
Waiting4Arson on September 27, 2007 at 4:30 pm said:
like an venn diagram of affection.
hullwork on September 27, 2007 at 4:38 pm said:
yeah #2, that reminded me of Constantine also
jk on September 27, 2007 at 4:40 pm said:
Is that a Björk logo?
Clare on September 27, 2007 at 4:40 pm said:
Björk is love!
dannyt on September 27, 2007 at 5:21 pm said:
Now I have "All is Full of Love" stuck in my head :)
Mechanic-Organic on September 27, 2007 at 5:26 pm said:
#7 – Aaah! I've been working on an "All is full of love" tattoo for the last month or so!
**This is just beautiful… Id love to see what the hearts look like on the individual arms where they 'stop'…. do they cutoff, fade, or continue on? Its in an interesting place as when they stand normally it will appear to be upside down.
veronica on September 27, 2007 at 5:27 pm said:
what's with posting shit under shannon's name?
jOELTRON on September 27, 2007 at 5:28 pm said:
cool idea, really well executed too.
I'd love to see the inside of the arms too, to see if the other heart is fully there or what.
Happy healing, it's gonna look great even in 5 years with those hot solid outlines.
Melody on September 27, 2007 at 5:31 pm said:
LATVIAN PRIIIIIIIIIDE. FINALLY.
Scott on September 27, 2007 at 5:39 pm said:
Hm, cool pic… posted by Shannon I'm sure… >:(
Malice Alice on September 27, 2007 at 6:15 pm said:
Stacey on September 27, 2007 at 6:23 pm said:
Neilsuarez on September 27, 2007 at 6:27 pm said:
thats cute!
starless_dark on September 27, 2007 at 7:03 pm said:
tim on September 27, 2007 at 7:04 pm said:
#10, its a robot posting it, like a time delay
xSOPHH on September 27, 2007 at 7:22 pm said:
Haha, I thought of Constantine too.
x]
Pretty.
GucciGurl on September 27, 2007 at 8:21 pm said:
thats gorgeous!
i wanna get something similar but an outline on my palm!
Dizzy Chair Time on September 27, 2007 at 9:26 pm said:
Bjork sucks
evarz on September 27, 2007 at 11:03 pm said:
I love it, and I'm not even that big on Bjork.
laubergine on September 28, 2007 at 12:57 pm said:
Bjork! :D WOO!!!!
Ralex on September 28, 2007 at 1:44 pm said:
I live temporarley in Latvia and need to know where that shop is in Riga. I am desperate for some new ink, Who tells me will get a nice hug from me :P
entertained on September 28, 2007 at 2:25 pm said:
Im not sure it says bjork..
i agree with #4, its like a venn diagram. Its probably one of those where you fill in your name, but are waiting for the other half.
possessed on September 29, 2007 at 3:53 pm said:
I love this so much. What a fucking cool idea, and it looks amazing! Although how gutted will he be if he discovers a red ink allergy?!
esz on September 30, 2007 at 7:21 pm said:
i heart björk. i love that tattoo.
copied on October 4, 2007 at 9:15 pm said:
Is this the guy that mailed Bjork a bomb before shooting himself? Yea, type in 'Bjork stalker' into google.
grat on October 30, 2007 at 11:52 am said:


It's lightweight and folds down into a small, handy package. The double Cacoon weighs about 6kg/13 pounds (the single, 5kg/11 pounds) and packs down to 25cm X 80cm or 9.8" x 2'.7" (the single, 20cm X 70cm or 7.9" x 2'.4"). Oh, and the Aluminum ring won't rust either, so take it to the beach.


SEATTLE–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Feb 6, 2019–Switch, Inc., a Seattle-based financial technology company that offers the only comprehensive platform to instantly update any card on any online merchant site, announced today that the company's CardSavr service increases credit card usage immediately at activation. Card issuers will experience higher revenue and customer loyalty numbers, due to the enhanced convenience and access automated card provisioning provides.
According to a 2013 Federal Reserve Payments study, only 56% of activated credit cards are being used. For years financial institutions have been optimizing the issuance process to improve activation and immediate usage rates. Programs like instant issuance, online or mobile activation, and welcome bonuses have been rolled out, yet a large percentage of cards are still without purchase activity.
Issuers can either continue to try to increase card usage rates through promotions or adopt a solution that instantly puts cards on file everywhere cardholders make payments online at the time of activation. Switch is the only fintech company offering a platform that provisions cards on file and increases low card usage rates that burden issuers.
"It's a straightforward solution to a persistent problem for every financial institution: Reduce the credit card management hassle to increase customer retention and overall revenue. CardSavr is an intuitive and secure application to exponentially grow credit card usage and diminish the pain of the payments process in the increasingly growing realm of online commerce," said Carol Cosby, former Mastercard Worldwide Executive Vice President and member of the Switch Board of Directors.
Switch's CardSavr service enables card issuers to provide their cardholders with automated card provisioning and updating within issuers' existing digital assets, anywhere cardholders shop or make payments online. The service offers issuers the strategic ability to broaden the reach of their cards and achieve Top of Wallet®.
To learn more about CardSavr, visit cardsavr.com. The company recently unveiled details about its differentiated technology and industry-only solutions. Access the white paper at switchme.com/whitepaper-payments-ecosystem.


How Does Exercise Affect Lymphedema?
Exercise plays a key role in both reducing the risk of lymphedema as well as the management of lymphedema.
Lymphedema is caused by an interruption or restriction in the flow of lymph fluid following surgery. Most people are aware of arm lymphedema caused by breast cancer surgery, but leg lymphedema can be a side effect of prostate or abdominal surgeries. Torso lymphedema can happen from neck and throat surgeries.
There are several ways to reduce the risk of lymphedema, however, exercise for lymphedema is extremely helpful and well documented by research.
Open the lymphatic system first. The lymphatic drains are located by your throat and will allow the flow of lymph fluid which will increase with the exercise. The Healthy-Steps program (formerly The Lebed Method) has a wonderful Lymphatic Opening exercise and program for those who may be at risk for lymphedema.
Make sure the exercise movements are slow to medium speed and smooth flowing versus jerky. After surgery, especially if lymph nodes have been removed, the lymphatic transport system will be compromised and could become congested if the flow of lymph fluid is too fast. Think of a superhighway where the traffic is rerouted from four lanes to one lane.
Wear proper compression garments which are designed to assist the flow of lymph fluid (i.e. lymphedema sleeve) during exercise if you already have lymphedema. This includes the gauntlet (glove) to ensure the build up of fluid does not travel to the hand.


the fog at San Francisco's Golden Gate is legendary. this classic globe features minute grey sparkles that swirl and envelope the Golden Gate then make for a slow bridge reveal. a very beautiful (and popular) piece!


A couple of days ago, Microsoft released AV1 video codec app for Windows 10 devices. The application can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store for free.
AV1 Video Codec extension is available for free and you can get it on all Windows 10 devices including the PC and Surface Hub. According to the Microsoft Store listing, AV1 Video Codec extension is recommended to be installed on Windows 10 October 2018 Update but it appears that you can run it on April 2018 Update as well.
At the moment, Windows 10 October 2018 update is not available for download but Microsoft is expected to release it re-sometime soon as the company has already addressed the reported issues.
The extension app is supposed to improve the experience of codec videos on all Windows 10 devices but since it is in the early beta stage, you may come across small performance issues while playing AV1 videos.
The company explains that the extension is in early beta and you may notice some performance issues when playing AV1 videos. The software maker is still working on improvements to enhance the experience when playing AV1 videos and updates will be released in the coming weeks with additional fixes.
"Play AV1 videos on your Windows 10 device. This extension is an early beta version of the AV1 software decoder that lets you play videos that have been encoded using the AV1 video coding standard developed by the Alliance for Open Media," the company explains.
AV Video Codex, also known as AOMedia Video 1, is a video coding format designed for video transmissions over the internet. The AV1 video codec features new techniques and it's based on Google's experimental VP9 evolution project VP10.
If you install the extension released by Microsoft, you will be able to run more videos on your device. This extension will add support for all videos using AV1 codex and you would be able to run such them in Microsoft Edge, built-in Movies and TV and other Windows 10 apps.
The codec is currently available to download from the Microsoft Store and you can get it by searching for AV1 Video Extension (Beta) in Store or from here.