American Girl Dolls Embrace Differences and Disabilities

Nov 29, 2012 7:00am

I must admit, I find?American Girl Dolls?slightly unnerving. They are so eerily lifelike, and I know it?s a clich?, but the eyes really do follow you everywhere. My daughter has one, and we put it in the closet every night because mommy is a little crazy.

Despite these misgivings, it?s hard not to cheer for a doll company that goes out of its way to represent girls from all walks of life and every circumstance. The new Special Sparkle section in?its ?holiday catalog?includes a miniature service dog in harness, a hearing aid and an allergy-free lunch kit.

?We have a long history of speaking to diversity and making girls feel good about themselves, and this is just another way we are expanding on the idea,? said American Girl Doll spokeswoman ?Julie Parks.

Whereas many dolls from high-end companies resemble a stereotypical beauty unattainable for most little girls, American Girl has always seemed to strive for all-inclusiveness. The dolls come in a vast selection of skin tones, hair color and eye color, which can be mixed and matched so the doll resembles its owner. Now they can also be fitted with glasses, braces for the teeth, crutches or a wheel chair, and the company recently began?to offer dolls without hair to represent those who have lost hair to cancer.

American Girl books and movies also do a good job of highlighting?problems girls are likely to encounter in life. This year?s ?Doll of the Year? McKenna is a talented gymnast who struggles with injuries and a learning disability. In the book and movie about her experiences, Jesse, her brainy friend and tutor, is confined to a wheel chair.

?Dr. Ari Brown, a developmental pediatrician in Austin, Texas, applauds American Girl?s mission of highlighting differences and?a message of acceptance.

??I think it?s great American Girl tries to have dolls that have the same hodgepodge of traits and features you actually see in kids,? Brown said.

Brown said she also believes playing with a doll that uses a hearing aid, ?requires a special diet or depends on a service dog can be an enriching experience for all girls, even if they themselves don?t have special needs.

?It can help kids learn to be more accepting of others who are different from them,? she said.

Perhaps because acceptance? for all is part of American Girl?s? mission, it has been more successful than other toy makers?that have ?attempted to make dolls with disabilities. Barbie?s wheelchair-bound friend,?Share a Smile Becky, is a notable example. Even consumers who overlooked the condescending name?couldn?t?forgive the fact that Becky?s chair?didn?t?fit into the Barbie Dream House elevator.

Girl Power aside, all this diversity?might have a limited reach. The price tag for a doll is $105, and from there the cash register never seems to stop ringing. The wheel chair costs $38, the hearing aid $9 and the allergy-free lunch bag $28. ?Let?s not even mention the hair?styling, ear piercing and tea parties.

Yet in spite of the steep cost of ownership, Parks said feedback has been overwhelmingly positive for the dolls in general and the new disability accessories in particular.

?Parents realize they are investing in something that builds strong character and helps every girl reach their full potential, no matter who they are or what they look like,? she said. ?It?s all about engaging them in positive experiences and helping them fit in.?

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SHOWS: Good Morning America

Source: http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/health/2012/11/29/american-girl-dolls-embrace-differences-and-disabilities/

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PFT: Alex Smith says demotion 'sucks'

On the same day that former Saints assistant Mike Cerullo testified in the bounty appeal hearing convened by former Commissioner Paul Tagliabue, Judge Helen Berrigan issued a reminder that she has ultimate jurisdiction over the process.

And she hinted that she?s leaning against the league?s position.

Larry Holder of the New Orleans Times-Picayune has obtained an order entered by Judge Berrigan on Thursday.? Here?s the full text of it:? ?In light of the CBA Appeal Panel?s Decision of September 7, 2012, that ?pay for performance? discipline was within the exclusive jurisdiction of the Systems Arbitrator, anticipating that the forthcoming decision by Mr. Tagliabue may be subject to an expedited review as to its fundamental fairness, and assuming as undisputed the testimony by the New Orleans Saints players and coaches that only ?legal hits? were used to intimidate and/or injure opposing players, the parties shall brief the following: 1. Does Articles 43 and 46 of the CBA exclude discipline by the Commissioner for ?legal? contact? 2. Does the CBA give the players and coaches adequate notice as to what conduct could be sanctioned as ?conduct detrimental?? In other words, is that portion of the CBA ambiguous, hence unenforceable? Counsel should discuss the significance, if any, of the separate provision for sanctions upon players for ?unnecessary roughness or unsportsmanlike conduct on the playing field with respect to an opposing player? in Article 46, Section 1(b) from ?[a]ll disputes involving a fine or suspension imposed upon a player for conduct on the playing field? and ?conduct detrimental? in Section 1(a). Reference to relevant NFL rules defining ?legal? and ?illegal? contact is welcomed, as well as a discussion of examples of ?conduct detrimental? provided in the CBA and related documents.?

In English, Judge Berrigan wants the parties to submit written documents that address specific angles and issues that may be relevant to her decision about the imposition of punishment on players for a pay-for-performance system based on clean, legal hits that kept opponents from continuing in a given game.? The way the questions are written suggests that she has identified specific problems that the NFL may have under the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

For example, Judge Berrigan wants the parties to address whether discipline for ?legal? on-field contact is prevented because she apparently thinks it may be.? Likewise, she wants to know whether the CBA gives players and coaches ?adequate notice? regarding the conduct that could be regarded as ?conduct detrimental? because she thinks it may not.

Judge Berrigan also seems to think that the punishment for clean, legal hits falls under the portion of the CBA that gives Ted Cottrell or Art Shell exclusive jurisdiction over the disciplinary process ? an argument that the NFL surely will argue the players have waived by not raising it under the CBA.

Regardless of the arguments raised by the parties, the order seems to be good news for the players, and bad news for the NFL.? The fact that it was issued at a time when key witnesses in the case against the players are testifying could rattle the league?s lawyers and create a sense that, no matter what happens before Tagliabue, the suspensions will ultimately be thrown out.

Source: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/11/29/alex-smith-says-demotion-sucks/related

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What To Do If Your Cat Won't Use Their Litter Box - Pet Sitter Patrol

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The #1 reason why cats are abandoned, abused, placed in shelters or put down is because of non-use of their litter boxes.

Understanding Why This Can Happen

To get to the root of the problem we first must know and understand the different causes to consider.? There are 3 likely main causes for a cat not using their litter box.? Knowing which category your cat falls into is so crucial to resolving the problem.? In order to correct it you will need to utilize both behavior modification and stress reduction techniques for best results.

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The 3 Leading Causes If Your Cat Won?t Use Their Litter Box

1.)???? Medical Condition:? First step is to take them in for a check-up at your local veterinarian.? I recommend a complete physical examination to rule out any underlying medical problems.?? If they don?t pee or poop for more than a day this could be a blockage, intestinal tract or urinary tract infection.? This is very painful to a kitty.? You might see him/her hiding or crying and it is potentially deadly if not treated quickly. If it is a urinary tract infection please keep in mind that even after they are treated they may continue to soil the same trouble spots due to habit even long after the initial infection is cured.? Another scenario might be your cat? peeing outside of its litter box.? That?s a possible bladder infection.
Another thing you may consider is was your cat recently declawed? Is your kitty older?? That may be an? ingrown claw.? This happens more frequently than you might think especially in older cats.? They need their claws checked regularly as they can curl under and grow into their paw pad. This is very very painful & will prevent a cat not using their litter box. Cats depend upon the sensations in their paws for information about their environment, including their litter boxes. Cats may feel discomfort or pain in their toes for awhile after declawing while they are still healing, which can make it hurt to stand or dig in cat litter.? Discuss all the various options with your vet including the consideration of giving your cat Clomicalm; a kitty Prozac as a possible solution.

2.)???? Territorial Marking:? This is a natural behavior for both male and female cats used for communication and should not be confused with other non use issues of their litter.? To determine if they are just marking the area watch them sniff the location prior to marking and will then just leave a small amount of urine behind without pawing the area and retreating away.? This can be fixed by placing scratch posts in trouble spots so that they mark with their paws instead of spraying.? You can use your cats own pheromones or purchase a synthetic feline pheromone in your local pet store.? To use your cats own scent; rub a soft cloth between their eyes and behind their ears.? Then rub the cloth on the soiled area to create a ?friendly zone? thus eliminating the need to do territorial marking or spraying.? Wipe the cloth repeatedly on the soiled area over several weeks.

Cats may also do defecation for creating their own territorial spaces.? Signs of this type include defecating in very conspicuous and unusual spots such as on top of a table or in a sink or tub.? Your vet may also be able to prescribe medication to reduce marking. Have your cat complete a physical examination to rule out any other problem first.

3.)???? Behavioral Issue:? This category includes everything from you choosing an offensive litter causing ?box rejection,? to location preference (the cat who chooses an out of away closet instead of its box) to stress induced soiling (often related to changes in the household such as moving, major home renovations and more.)? Since all litter box problems are somewhat behavioral; these techniques make a great starting point for solving the litter box issues.

Steps For Success:? Retraining Your Cat Or New Kitten

**First and foremost; never punish your cat or kitten.? Harsh treatment only creates more stress and may result in the problem getting worse.? Instead; reward your cat immediately with treats when it does use the litter box.

? 1.)???? Clean-Up All Trace Evidence.

Do everything you can to eliminate any trace of odor from the urine trouble spots.? A cat?s sense of smell is 1000x stronger than a human; so this step is very important. Once a cat has marked an area with urine or feces, a problem cat may regard that area as an appropriate place to relieve themselves.? Always keep in mind that they are creatures of habit and repeatedly soil the same location.

Tip:? Avoid ammonia based cleaners.? They can contribute to the problem with their urine like scent.

Tip:? Try to keep your cat away from the trouble spots by covering the area with a plastic runner placed spike side up or use self-sticking shelf sticky paper with sticky side up.

Tip: ?Use a lemon based air freshener.? It repels the cat and also neutralizes the odor.

Tip:? If still your cat can?t resist the trouble area; try placing their food there.? Cats don?t like to s**t where they eat.? Never have their litter box near their food dishes.

2.)???? Clean Cat Room & Litter Area Thoroughly.?

Isolate your cat to a room.? Make sure their litter box isn?t sitting right next to their food dish.? Give them plenty of water, a blanket and toys for amusement.? Leave them in there for several days checking in twice a day for routine litter box cleaning and petting/loving time.

Tip:? After Isolation for a couple of days try letting them out to see if it has been corrected.? Having 2 litter boxes per cat is another fantastic idea.? Just be sure the litter boxes aren?t next to each other side by side.? The best option would be to have a litter box on each level of your home.

3.)???? Try Replacing Your Current Cat Litter With Dr. Elsey?s Cat Attract Litter.

I had to see it to believe it!? It seems to work!? You can find this litter and many other of his cat attract accessories at your local Petco, Pet Smart or online.? The special cat attract litter will be priced a little higher than your normal litter around $13.99 a bag for about 20 lbs of it; But it?s worth every penny and more!? This litter has rescued many cats from having to be put down.? It?s truly a miracle!

• Clay-based, clumping litter has just the right particle size and special herbal scent.
• Proven to work and attract cats.
• It?s scoop able
• Claims its 99% dust free.? (Although I think it?s still a little dusty if you ask me.)
• Contains chlorophyll for natural odor control
• Each bag of litter includes step-by-step instructions for best results.
• Includes unconditional manufactures guarantee
• Click this link to view at Petco? Dr. Elsey?s Cat Attract Litter
  

4.)???? Daily Remove Feces & Urine Clumps In Their Litter Box.?

At least once a day preferably twice a day clean it out.

Tip:? If your cat doesn?t respond to a clean litter box, you may need to replace it with a new one and then place it in a different location.? Sometimes old cat litter boxes get scratched up and can permit an unpleasant odor to the cats.

5.)???? Consider A Litter Box Make Over.??

Hooded boxes are designed for humans not necessarily for cats.? Try removing the hood and moving its location to a quiet out of the way spot with convenient access for your cats but not so convenient for your dog.? Dogs may stand by the litter box making the cat nervous and sometimes they will even try to eat the cat poop afterwards?gross

Tip:? Keep the litter box away from bright lights, loud noises, vibrations and small children.? If you can; place the litter box in the middle of the room so they don?t feel trapped or anxious.

6.)???? Treat Your Cat To Some Extra Love, Playtime & R&R.?

Stress is the leading cause for a cat not to use its litter box.? Try these tips to help comfort your kitty?

Tip:? Avoid major home renovations and moving a lot.

Tip:? In a multiple cat homes make sure the cats have their own zone or area with its their own food, water, play toys, scratching posts and an elevated perch for relaxing on.? Heated beds and cat condos near a window for viewing out are an added bonus for a great ?Cat Scratch Pad?

Tip: Play with your cat at least 15 minutes every day.? Make sure they have plenty of toys to stalk and try rotating the cat toys out to keep it exciting for them.

Tip:? Play ?Kitty-hide-and-seek.? ?It?s a lot of fun!? Do it by placing hidden kitty treats and pieces of food around their cat zone to search, hunt and eat.

Tip:? Leave the TV or radio on when you leave the home to help with boredom.

**If the problem continues to persist even after using the new litter and training tips listed; please immediately take your cat to your veterinarian.? Your cat may have a serious medical problem.

Kitten Training

Training a kitten is very different from training a dog.? Kittens instinctively want to seek out a location to dig.? You can help them with consistency by placing their litter box in a very accessible location.? Their bladders aren?t fully matured yet and can be much weaker than average adult cats.

After feeding time is over immediately place kitten in their litter box and step away.? Don?t try to show them how to dig by grabbing and digging their paws in the litter.? Kittens naturally have an ?elimination reflex? after eating.? By doing this consistently it guides them to the associate for the box with the natural reflex.? You may also want to place a small step by box to help them into the litter.? Dr. Elsey?s Kitten Attract Litter has been developed specially for their tiny tender paws while maintaining superior clumping capabilities.? They added specific herb attractants just for kittens as well.

Tip:? Avoid using perfumed or cedar based litters for kittens.? They may find it offensive with their extra sensitive noses.

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Researched & Written By: Melissa Fisher

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Source: http://petsitterpatrol.com/2012/11/28/cat-wont-use-their-litter-box/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=cat-wont-use-their-litter-box

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Bloomberg Launch's Chinese Interbank FX Rates Globally | Forex ...

Bloomberg has announced today that it will begin distributing live interbank pricing for the onshore renminbi market (CNY). The tick by tick data provided from the China Foreign Exchange Trade System will allow users to gain better control for pricing and hedging of China related business.

While not maybe not as exciting as the errant launching of Greek Drachma quotes on it terminal, the renminbi pricing will be much more useful as it fills an important gap for both on and offshore companies conducting global business with China. Demand for more Chinese currency related products has been strong in 2012 with more and more brokers providing NDFs and more recently deliverable futures this year. As such, as renminbi trading becomes more prevalent and foreign banks increase their involvement with the currency, we are seeing more an offshore market taking place.

Bloomberg First to Deliver China Interbank FX Rates Globally

New service provides investors with real-time insights into onshore renminbi market

November 28th, 2012
Hong Kong, London ? Bloomberg today announced the first global, real-time data service that provides investors access to live interbank pricing for China?s onshore renminbi (CNY) market. This service captures currency trading activity among banks and financial institutions in China, and is provided through the China Foreign Exchange Trade System (CFETS), the official interbank trading and foreign exchange (FX) division of China?s central bank.

?The addition of the CFETS data gives investors insights into real-time tick-by-tick movement, volumes and market participant information in China?s onshore interbank market,? said Tod Van Name, Bloomberg?s Global Head of FX, Economics and Commodities. ?Given the rapid internationalisation of the Chinese Yuan, this data is imperative to global markets as it provides our clients greater transparency for smarter and more timely trading, hedging and investment decisions.?

Global currency traders, corporate treasurers and institutional investors can now view executable quotes and trades on the interbank dollar-yuan spot, swap and forward markets. The CFETS data service also features the best renminbi spot prices from participating banks, historical trade sizes, and eight other renminbi currency pairs. Combined with Bloomberg?s FX suite, market participants can connect to global counterparties and liquidity, and access Bloomberg?s global FX trading community.

?The provision of real-time China interbank FX rates to international investors is yet another step in the right direction,? said Sam Phoen, head of global markets, ANZ bank (China). ?Onshore corporations and investors will benefit from real-time executable rates, while offshore players who are invested in China will have better visibility when hedging against movements of the renminbi.?

According to CFETS? publication ChinaMoney, with renminbi cross- border inflows and outflows intensifying in 2012, development of the offshore renminbi market will drive domestic financial market reform, and aid in a fair and transparent price discovery process for renminbi foreign exchange rates.

?BNP Paribas is one of the first international banks to access Bloomberg?s CFETS service,? said Julien Martin, Deputy Head of Fixed Income, BNP Paribas China. ?Offshore players can now access accurate interbank dollar-yuan rates that better reflect market conditions, providing investors with a critical edge in foreign exchange transactions amidst today?s volatile trading environment.?

This announcement follows Bloomberg?s leadership in the evolution of the offshore renminbi (CNH) market, which includes the development and adoption of the CNH code, provision of its price history and introduction of the offshore renminbi bond listing and index.

Source: http://forexmagnates.com/bloomberg-launchs-chinese-interbank-fx-rates-globally/

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Holidays and Depression ? Baby Boomers Network

Nov 29th, 2012 by Amy Sherman.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, sadness, low energy, and the occasional blue feeling is a normal part of aging. However, those feelings may increase during the holidays and interfere with your daily life. It could become a problem and should be treated as soon as possible.

Boomers with depression often feel tired and may lose their motivation for things they once loved. Relationships and jobs may suffer and ultimately, one?s physical health could be compromised.

What causes you to become depressed during the holidays? Perhaps it?s poor choices from the past that leaves you feeling guilty and worn out. Perhaps it?s dealing with aging parents, kids in for the holidays, working and planning for special events. Perhaps it?s the struggle of fitting everything in during one 24-hour day. Perhaps it?s the fear of getting older and being less useful and worthwhile.

Even though baby boomers are affluent and highly educated, they still have the highest rate of depression than other generations. The desire to live healthier lives and stay younger hasn?t prevented some boomers from getting caught in the downward spiral of depression.

The most common signs of depression are the following:

Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
A change in appetite, including eating too little or excessively
Difficulty performing previously easy tasks
Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
Lack of motivation and drive
Negative thoughts or thoughts of suicide

The signs of depression vary among baby boomers and may manifest in ways that appear hidden or not so noticeable. So, in addition to the above classic symptoms, you should be aware of other behaviors. Men may display depression by taking greater risks while driving or by drinking excessively. Women may isolate themselves from family and friends or secretly abuse drugs/alcohol, too. Both may feel greater agitation or nervousness, unrelated to anything specific.

There is no shame in seeking professional help at this time of year or anytime. It is better to learn the tools to overcome this disorder than suffer in silence, waiting for things to improve. With insight and guidance you can delight at the prospect that a new day is just around the corner, bringing a fresh, new perspective on your life.

Posted in: Health & Wellness.

Source: http://www.bummedoutboomer.com/holidays-and-depression

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Researcher tests powerful new tool to advance ecology, conservation

ScienceDaily (Nov. 28, 2012) ? A new University of Florida study shows ecologists may have been missing crucial information from animal bones for more than 150 years.

The study featured on the cover of the November issue of Ecology shows animal bone remains provide high-quality geographical data across an extensive time frame. The research may be used to identify regions of habitat for the conservation of threatened species.

Charles Darwin first noted the importance of studying where animal bones lie on the landscape in 1860, but the topic has since become largely lost to scientists trying to protect and conserve native wildlife. By documenting accumulations of elk bones and antlers on the landscape of Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, study author Joshua Miller identified areas critical for the species' survival during spring and winter.

"This is fundamental stuff, because for a long time the common knowledge was that bones only lasted a few years on the landscape," said Miller, an assistant scientist at the Florida Museum of Natural History on the UF campus and Fenneman assistant research professor at the University of Cincinnati. "It turns out they last a lot longer and surveys of bones on landscapes offer a new tool for conservation and management -- one that allows us to collect decades of biological data in a single field season."

Walking across Yellowstone Park, Miller documented elk skeletal remains and determined the bones record the same seasonal distributions as aerial surveys of living elk.

Ecologists typically gather information for conservation by monitoring wild animals, a task requiring years of financial support and countless hours of observation by wildlife biologists. A long-term study in ecology consists of at least 10 to 20 years of census data. However, because some bones can survive on some landscapes for hundreds of years, they may include data from time periods beyond the reaches of a traditional ecological study, including historical insight often missing from scientists' knowledge of ecosystems, Miller said.

"A major challenge for wildlife conservation and management has been that biologists can only work in the present -- researchers can only start from when they began collecting data," Miller said. "If someone wants to develop a piece of land, for example, there may only be time for a few years of data collection, and we know as ecologists that such limited observations aren't enough to capture the full complexities of an ecosystem. This research shows we can go into the past, essentially using bones to travel through time and learn about generations of wildlife that were previously lost to science."

A popular hunting species, male elk grow to 700 pounds, shedding their more than 30-pound antlers annually. Miller used standardized bone surveys on 40 five-eighth-mile-long plots in the northern range of Yellowstone Park to identify wintering grounds by antler accumulations and calving grounds by the appearance of newborn skeletons.

"Bones are not randomly scattered across a landscape," Miller said. "Where a bone is found is often as biologically informative as which species it's from. As we investigate the quality of these geographic data, we're discovering that this is a gold mine of information."

Although the study represents a narrow test case, the strong correlation between how bones are distributed across Yellowstone Park and known patterns in how elk use the landscape shows this low-impact survey technique may be useful for understanding other areas, including poorly known or fragile ecosystems, Miller said.

Anna Behrensmeyer, vertebrate paleontology curator at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of Natural History, uses bone surveys in East Africa for understanding the area's mammal populations and how bones become part of the fossil record. She said the study of taphonomy, the processes affecting organic remains as they become fossilized, is not commonly recognized in the field of ecology.

"In my long-term studies of bones, it has struck me that many ecologists have been missing useful information that is available in bones lying about on modern landscapes," Behrensmeyer said. "Josh is showing the potential of using bones, antlers and other remains to monitor what animals have been doing for the past decades and even hundreds of years."

Behrensmeyer said she hopes taphonomy as a research tool spreads from its traditional place in paleontology and archaeology into the realm of ecology.

"Sometimes we taphonomists feel like a small voice in the universe -- it's hard for the dead to capture the attention of scientists focused on understanding living organisms and ecosystems," Behrensmeyer said. "Once ecologists see this study, they could very well say, 'Why didn't I think of that?' "

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Story Source:

The above story is reprinted from materials provided by University of Florida. The original article was written by Danielle Torrent.

Note: Materials may be edited for content and length. For further information, please contact the source cited above.

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Journal Reference:

1. Joshua H. Miller. Spatial fidelity of skeletal remains: elk wintering and calving grounds revealed by bones on the Yellowstone landscape. Ecology, 2012; 93 (11): 2474 DOI: 10.1890/12-0272.1

Note: If no author is given, the source is cited instead.

Disclaimer: Views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of ScienceDaily or its staff.

Source: http://feeds.sciencedaily.com/~r/sciencedaily/top_news/top_environment/~3/9WmtPdZro08/121128162023.htm

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Judge denies new trial request in 2007 killings

FILE - This undated file booking photo provided by the Will County Sheriff's Office in Joliet, Ill., shows Christopher Vaughn, of Oswego, Ill. On Monday, Nov. 26, 2012, a judge in Joliet is scheduled to sentence Vaughn for the June 2007 killing of his wife, Kimberly Vaughn, 34 and three children: 12-year-old Abigayle; 11-year-old Cassandra and 8-year-old Blake, in the family's SUV as they drove to a waterpark. (AP Photo/Will County Sheriff's Office, File)

FILE - This undated file booking photo provided by the Will County Sheriff's Office in Joliet, Ill., shows Christopher Vaughn, of Oswego, Ill. On Monday, Nov. 26, 2012, a judge in Joliet is scheduled to sentence Vaughn for the June 2007 killing of his wife, Kimberly Vaughn, 34 and three children: 12-year-old Abigayle; 11-year-old Cassandra and 8-year-old Blake, in the family's SUV as they drove to a waterpark. (AP Photo/Will County Sheriff's Office, File)

FILE - In this June 15, 2007 file photo, a makeshift memorial to Kimberly Vaughn, and her three children Abigayle, 12, Cassandra, 11, and Blake, 8, is seen outside their home in Oswego, Ill. Christopher Vaughn, who was convicted in the 2007 slayings of his wife and three children, is asking for a new trial and a judge in Joliet, Ill., is expected to announce his decision Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2012. His September trial overlapped with the trial of Drew Peterson, the former suburban Chicago police officer convicted of killing his third wife and whose case had been made into a TV movie. Vaughn's attorney argues that part of the reason his client didn't get a fair trial was because the press conferences held by Peterson's lawyers outside the courthouse damaged his own credibility as a defense attorney. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File)

JOLIET, Ill. (AP) ? An Illinois man convicted of killing his wife and three children does not deserve a new trial, a judge ruled Tuesday, rejecting a defense attorney's argument that an unrelated, high-profile trial might have influenced jurors.

Christopher Vaughn was convicted of fatally shooting his family so he could start a new life in the Canadian wilderness. His September trial overlapped with the trial of Drew Peterson, the former suburban Chicago police officer convicted of killing his third wife and whose case had been made into a TV movie.

Vaughn's attorney, George Lenard, argued that part of the reason his client didn't get a fair trial was because the news conferences held by Peterson's lawyers outside the courthouse damaged his own credibility as a defense attorney.

But Will County Judge Daniel Rozak dismissed that argument Tuesday, saying there is no evidence that the jurors at Vaughn's trial considered the actions of Peterson's attorneys or were even aware of the news conferences.

Vaughn was convicted of four counts of first-degree murder ? charges that carry a mandatory life sentence ? after a 5 1/2 week trial for the 2007 deaths of his wife, 12-year-old daughter, 11-year-old daughter and 8-year-old son. The judge's decision Tuesday meant that the court immediately proceeded with Vaughn's sentencing hearing.

On Monday, Lenard had argued that Peterson's attorneys made comments that were so detrimental to the reputation of court that they hurt his credibility with jurors in Vaughn's trial.

He noted that at one news conference, Peterson's lawyers jokingly said, "Stacy who?" when asked what effect Peterson's fourth wife, Stacy Peterson, who vanished in 2007, might have on Peterson's trial in the 2004 death of his third wife, Kathleen Savio.

"That gave defense attorneys, all of us, a black eye," Lenard told the judge. "Nobody ever said to me that made defense attorneys look good."

Prosecutors scoffed at Leonard's argument, saying jurors made the right decision based on "overwhelming" evidence against Vaughn. Assistant State's Attorney Mike Fitzgerald noted that Lenard could have asked for a delay to Vaughn's trial if he was so concerned about the media spectacle surrounding Peterson's trial, but he did not.

Investigators said Vaughn surprised his family with news that he was taking them to a water park the morning of June 14, 2007, but pulled off the road soon after starting the trip. Prosecutors allege he first shot his wife, then twice shot each of his children ? who were buckled in the back seat ? and then shot himself in the leg and wrist to make it seem like his wife was the shooter.

Prosecutors said the slayings were part of Vaughn's plan to start a new life in the Canadian wilderness.

Associated Press

Source: http://hosted2.ap.org/APDEFAULT/386c25518f464186bf7a2ac026580ce7/Article_2012-11-27-Shootings-Father%20Sentencing/id-9569c3088fcb4654bbeb9cfc23575408

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What Were the Most Asked Questions of 2012?

Source: http://www.thehollywoodgossip.com/2012/11/what-were-the-most-popular-questions-of-2012/

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10 Ways To Boost Ecommerce Sales With Geotargeting

Geotargeting or geomarketing is the delivery of different content based on the geographical location of the customer. The location is typically discovered automatically based on the ip address of the user accessing the website. It is a great way to boost e-commerce sales.

A recent report on e-commerce best practices conducted by Monetate highlights effective ways to use geographical data of website visitors to offer personalised content on your E-Commerce website.

1. Act Local

Geotargeting also allows a business to act local. This affects how visitors feel towards your brand and helps you to streamline your messages. E.g. your business can display messages that reference the city where the visitor currently is located. Simple personalized messages such as this allows a business to offer personalized shopping experience to customers.

2. Combine Geotargeted Messages With In-Store Data

Combining geo-targeted messages with in-store inventory can new opportunities to drive online as well as in-store sales. For example, you can use geo-targeted messages to inform a customer if a particular product is out of stock online but available at a nearby store. ?Another option is to promote in-store returns for online shoppers who are near a brick-and mortar location.

3. Display Specific Delivery Options

Delivery options, times and costs can vary based on the location of the buyer. E-commerce businesses can use website visitor?s location to display specific messages about the delivery times and fees for visitors based on their location. Similarly, you can display a message on your homepage to let international customers know in advance if you deliver to their location. This will help reduce cart abandonment during checkout.

Providing only those options that are available in the user?s location, can make your site easier to use. E.g. if express delivery is not available internationally, there is no need to display this option to customers who are browsing your website from overseas.

4. Highlight Location-Specific Offers

You can also use customer?s current location to highlight deals and offers that are specific to that location. This can make your offers more appealing and give customer an incentive to buy. For example, if a business is running a sale or special offer in a specific city or region then this could be highlighted to visitors who browse the website from that location and not to others.

Promoting location specific deals to visitors ensures the right visitors know about the right sale at the right time. This is an effective way to increase conversions on your website.

5. Show Different Content to Returning Customers

The consumer behaviour pattern of returning customers is very different to new customers. Returning customers add products to their shopping carts almost twice as much as first-time visitors, and the average conversion rates of returning visitors is 4.07%, compared to 2.09% for new visitors.

This offers businesses with the opportunity to change content on specific sections of the website based on whether the visitor is a first time or returning visitor. E.g. you can display recently purchased products to returning visitors and bestsellers to new visitors. Similarly, you can give returning customers the option to pre-fill their cart with items they have purchased before.

A similar approach is also used by informational websites to display location specific content. See the example of CNN below.

6. Change Language Based on User?s Location

Another way to personalise your website based on visitor?s location is to translate important elements of the website automatically. Asking international visitors to ?choose their country? and then translate the website halts the buying process and can take them out of the purchasing state.

7. Display The Right Currency To International Visitors

A business can encourage repeat purchases from international visitors by understanding their past behaviors and responding to their needs. Rather than asking a returning visitor to select a currency preference, you can display products in the right currency based on their location or default subsequent visits to the currency they paid with the last time. Just be sure to provide a clear way to switch to another currency option. This can be beneficial if your business offers multiple currency options on the website.

8. Inform Users if Services Are Available in Their Location

A website allows businesses to target a global consumer-base. You can use geo-targeting to display relevant messages on your homepage that let users know if your services are available in their country. You can also inform them if shipping to their country is available. This is a great way to improve the usability of your website and avoid disappointments and reduce cart abandonment.

9. Display Local Testimonials

You can also use the location of website visitors to display geotargeted customer testimonials by highlighting reviews from shoppers in the same area. This makes your business and your website appear more trustworthy can have an impact on buying decision as a visitor from more likely to make a purchase if they see reviews from other customers from the same area.

10.? Use Location to Apply Correct Taxes

This is very important for businesses that sell in different locations. You can use geo-targeting to inform users about the correct taxes that will be applies to products or orders on your website. This is better than applying the taxes during checkout after the customer has entered their personal details. This can reduce cart abandonment during checkout. You still have the option to adjust on checkout if necessary.

Conclusion:

These are just some examples of a business can use geo-targeting to obtain customer?s location to personalize and streamline website content to meet the specific needs of users. The possibilities are endless.

What About You?

Do you display different content to users based on their location? Or have you come across a website that does this effectively? Please share your response by leaving a comment below.

If you like this article, please share it!

Source: http://www.kronikmedia.co.uk/blog/geotrageting-boost-ecommerce-sales/6074/

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Fire at German workshop for disabled kills 14

Firefighters try to extinguish flames in a workshop for disabled people in Titisee-Neustadt, southwestern Germany, Monday, Nov 26, 2012. Firefighters said the fire has killed 14 and injured at least six others. There was no immediate information on why the building in Titisee-Neustadt, near the city of Freiburg, caught fire Monday. (AP Photo/dapd, Kamera24.TV)

Firefighters try to extinguish flames in a workshop for disabled people in Titisee-Neustadt, southwestern Germany, Monday, Nov 26, 2012. Firefighters said the fire has killed 14 and injured at least six others. There was no immediate information on why the building in Titisee-Neustadt, near the city of Freiburg, caught fire Monday. (AP Photo/dapd, Kamera24.TV)

BERLIN (AP) ? Fourteen people were killed and eight others injured Monday when a fire broke out at a workshop for disabled people in Germany's Black Forest region, authorities said. Scores had to be rescued from the building.

More than 100 firefighters were deployed to battle the flames at the complex in Titisee-Neustadt after the fire began early Monday afternoon, said Markus Straub, a spokesman for local firefighters.

Dozens of ambulance workers were at the scene and smoke poured from the windows at the modern, three-story center.

The center usually has around 120 people at any one time, said Mirko Steffl, a police spokesman in the nearby city of Freiburg.

It was not immediately clear how many people had to be rescued, but by late afternoon workers had determined that no one else remained trapped in the building, he said.

The center, which employs people with either mental or physical disabilities in a variety of jobs including metalwork, woodwork and electrical installation, is run by the Catholic Church's Caritas organization.

"The biggest problem this afternoon was the smoke situation," said Alfred Oschwald, another Freiburg police spokesman. Smoke inhalation is believed to be the likely cause of the 14 deaths, he told broadcaster n-tv.

Eight people were hurt, but none of them had life-threatening injuries, he said.

Some 25 psychological counselors were assisting those rescued from the building and the victims' relatives in a nearby warehouse, Steffl said.

There was no immediate information on how the blaze started, police and firefighters said.

"It will take days to investigate what caused the fire," police spokesman Karl-Heinz Schmid said.

The mayor of Titisee-Neustadt, a popular lakeside tourist destination amid the rolling hills of the Black Forest in southwestern German Baden-Wuerttemberg state, said the center's buildings were quite new.

"It is devastating. We now have to find out how it happened," Armin Hinterseh was quoted as saying by the local daily Badische Zeitung.

Chancellor Angela Merkel is "shocked" about the loss of so many lives, her spokesman said on Twitter.

___

Geir Moulson in Berlin contributed reporting.

Associated Press

Source: http://hosted2.ap.org/APDEFAULT/cae69a7523db45408eeb2b3a98c0c9c5/Article_2012-11-26-Germany-Deadly%20Fire/id-943182379f4f4654a1f1b43294769acc

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Privacy groups ask Facebook to withdraw proposed policy changes

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Two privacy advocacy groups urged Facebook Inc on Monday to withdraw proposed changes to its terms of service that would allow the company to share user data with recently acquired photo-application Instagram, eliminate a user voting system and loosen email restrictions within the social network.

The changes, which Facebook unveiled on Wednesday, raise privacy risks for users and violate the company's previous commitments to its roughly 1 billion members, according to the Electronic Privacy Information Center and the Center for Digital Democracy.

"Facebook's proposed changes implicate the user privacy and terms of a recent settlement with the Federal Trade Commission," the groups said in a letter to Facebook Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg that was published on their websites on Monday.

By sharing information with Instagram, the letter said, Facebook could combine user profiles, ending its practice of keeping user information on the two services separate.

Facebook declined to comment on the letter.

In April, Facebook settled privacy charges with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission that it had deceived consumers and forced them to share more personal information than they intended. Under the settlement, Facebook is required to get user consent for certain changes to its privacy settings and is subject to 20 years of independent audits.

Facebook, Google and other online companies have faced increasing scrutiny and enforcement from privacy regulators as consumers entrust ever-increasing amounts of information about their personal lives to Web services.

Facebook unveiled a variety of proposed changes to its terms of service and data use polices on Wednesday, including a move to scrap a 4-year old process that can allow the social network's roughly 1 billion users to vote on changes to its policies.

If proposed changes generate more than 7,000 public comments during a seven-day period, Facebook's current terms of service automatically trigger a vote by users to approve the changes. But the vote is only binding if at least 30 percent of users take part, and two prior votes never reached that threshold.

The latest proposed changes had garnered more than 17,000 comments by late Monday.

Facebook also said last week that it wanted to eliminate a setting for users to control who can contact them on the social network's email system. The company said it planned to replace the "Who can send you Facebook messages" setting with new filters for managing incoming messages.

That change is likely to increase the amount of unwanted "spam" messages that users receive, the privacy groups warned on Monday.

Facebook's potential information sharing with Instagram, a photo-sharing service for smartphone users that it bought in October, flows from proposed changes that would allow the company to share information between its own service and other businesses or affiliates it owns.

The change could open the door for Facebook to build unified profiles of its users that include people's personal data from its social network and from Instagram, similar to recent moves by Google Inc.

In January, Google said it would combine users' personal information from its various Web services - such as search, email and the Google+ social network - to provide a more customized experience. The unified data policy raised concerns among some privacy advocates and regulators, who said it was an invasion of people's privacy.

"As our company grows, we acquire businesses that become a legal part of our organization," Facebook spokesman Andrew Noyes said in an emailed statement on Monday.

"Those companies sometimes operate as affiliates. We wanted to clarify that we will share information with our affiliates and vice versa, both to help improve our services and theirs, and to take advantage of storage efficiencies," Noyes said.

(Reporting By Alexei Oreskovic; Editing by Richard Pullin)

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/privacy-groups-ask-facebook-withdraw-proposed-policy-changes-022541055--sector.html

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Customer service crucial to business development, country's image ...

You are here: Home / Top Stories / Customer service crucial to business development, country?s image ? U.S. deputy chief of mission



November 26, 2012 By admin

The United States government has collaborated with Guyana on a number of areas relating to customer service, such as the USAID programme, which is working to promote eco-tourism, particularly in fishing and birding.
Deputy Chief of Mission Thomas Pierce applauded the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) for initiating a recent session on customer service and its significance to economic growth.

Deputy Chief of Mission Thomas Pierce

Pierce noted that eco-tourism is a segment of the market for which quality services is vital to attract and retain customers and to grow the reputation of businesses to gain international visitors who will journey to Guyana.
The deputy chief of mission said that it does not take very many encounters when someone visits a place to form an overall impression about the entire country.? He cited that the example of someone visiting a foreign capital and having a positive experience with the taxi driver during the ride from the airport, or the friendly hotel clerk, would reflect on the entire population.
Conversely, it would not take very many experiences such as slow service, rude hotel staff, etc to cripple a country?s image.
USAID has also been involved in the Skills, Knowledge and Youth Em-ployment (SKYE) programme, which is a partnership with private businesses to train young people, particularly at-risk youths to become productive citizens.
Pierce pointed out that customer service is a crucial component of all businesses, and can be correlated to the broader development of a country. ?Customers also go where they are welcomed, but stay where they are well treated,? the U.S. representative stated.

Enabling environment
He mentioned too that although government is charged with providing an environment in which businesses can prosper; it is the courage of entrepreneurs and the dedication of management and staff to successfully run businesses that generate individual, national and global prosperity. ?It is much easier to keep a customer than to go out and find new customers. Investors will seek stable and predictable investment climates with transparency and rule of law,? Pierce said.
He remarked that investors also weigh factors such as infrastructural development, protection of intellectual property rights, compliance with financial norms, and the quality of the labour force.
Pierce said private sector organisations have a legitimate voice in the dialogue of these issues and the business community has a role in shaping society through activities in the marketplace.
They are also expected to promote policies as an example in exercising corporate social responsibility, and giving back to the community.
The local business community has been urged to step up to the plate in addressing issues relating to staff hostility and overall customer service.
Generally, customer service in Guyana has not been up to scratch, and more effort is needed to boost the hospitality industry in terms of customer relations. Recognising this need, GCCI held a customer relations seminar at the Guyana Pegasus Hotel with the intention of helping participants increase their customer service skills, develop a greater appreciation of customer value, and raise the quality of the service they provide to customers.
Economic and commercial officer at the U.S. embassy, Eric Moore, who delivered remarks, noted that customer service begins in advance of a business interacting with customers. He stressed that employee selection, training and physical infrastructure are prerequisite elements to achieving great customer service.
Additionally, Moore said that retaining customers is always cheaper than gaining new ones, hence, the need for greater customer care. Moore detailed that the employees are a company?s internal customers; equally valuable for feedback as well as marketing the business.

Source: http://www.guyanatimesgy.com/?p=7076

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Carla Bruni backs gay marriage _ but not feminism

FILE - In this May 15, 2012 file photo, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, wife of outgoing President Nicolas Sarkozy, waves from a car as they leave the Elysee Palace after the presidential handover ceremony. Carla Bruni-Sarkozy has said Monday, Nov. 26, 2012 she supports the French Socialist?s plans for gay marriage, and disagrees with her Conservative husband Nicolas Sarkozy. In an interview in the December issue of Paris Vogue, the 44-year-old former supermodel and singer said: ?I?m rather in favor because I have a lot of friends - men and women -who are in this situation and I see nothing unstable or perverse in homoparental families.? (AP Photo/Michel Euler, File)

FILE - In this May 15, 2012 file photo, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, wife of outgoing President Nicolas Sarkozy, waves from a car as they leave the Elysee Palace after the presidential handover ceremony. Carla Bruni-Sarkozy has said Monday, Nov. 26, 2012 she supports the French Socialist?s plans for gay marriage, and disagrees with her Conservative husband Nicolas Sarkozy. In an interview in the December issue of Paris Vogue, the 44-year-old former supermodel and singer said: ?I?m rather in favor because I have a lot of friends - men and women -who are in this situation and I see nothing unstable or perverse in homoparental families.? (AP Photo/Michel Euler, File)

PARIS (AP) ? France's former first lady Carla Bruni says she disagrees with her conservative husband Nicolas Sarkozy and supports a plan to allow gay marriage and adoption.

In an interview with the French edition of Vogue for its December issue, the 44-year-old singer and supermodel said: "I'm rather in favor because I have a lot of friends ? men and women ? who are in this situation and I see nothing unstable or perverse in families with gay parents."

France's Socialists are pushing a bill that could see gay marriage legalized early next year. Though surveys have found that the majority of French people favor gay marriage, there has been a vocal backlash from religious leaders, voters in rural areas and ex-President Sarkozy's own UMP party.

"My husband is opposed for reasons linked to his political vocation, because he sees people as groups of thousands rather than people we know personally," she told the magazine ? which featured a 20-page photo spread of her decked out in designer clothes, harking back to her supermodel days.

Bruni, no stranger to speaking her mind, also called feminism outdated ? a view seemingly at odds with her image as an independent woman who forged careers in both fashion and music before settling down with Sarkozy.

"There's no need to be feminist in my generation," she said.

It's not the first time Bruni has sparked controversy on the subject. Last month, Bruni said her successor, Valerie Trierweiler, should marry her partner, President Francois Hollande, and ditch her career as a journalist.

In an interview with the French edition of Elle magazine, she dished out advice to Trierweiler, saying: "I think it is simpler to be the legitimate wife of the head of state rather than being his partner."

She added, "For my part, I felt a real easing of the general concern about me when I married Nicolas."

_____

Follow Thomas Adamson at http://Twitter.com/ThomasAdamsonAP

Associated Press

Source: http://hosted2.ap.org/APDEFAULT/4e67281c3f754d0696fbfdee0f3f1469/Article_2012-11-26-France-Bruni-Gay%20Marriage/id-1e885d1a519845f2b3787121048234ea

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Why 2D Printing Is Like 3D Printing: A Counter Rant

Editor's note: John Hauer is a sales, marketing and technology innovator with a 20+ career of working in print and related industries. He manages a blog which evangelizes 3D printing for traditional 2D printers, and can be found at 3D4printers.com. I recently read an article on TechCrunch by Jon Evans entitled 3D Printers Are Not Like 2D Printers. While I would agree with the title (obviously the two devices don?t serve the same purpose), I don?t agree with the argument Jon makes for why 3D printing is not like 2D printing.

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Techcrunch/~3/vqHRZXiJul0/

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Bomb hits Pakistani Shiite procession, kills 5

DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Pakistan (AP) ? A bombing claimed by the Taliban killed at least five people and wounded some 90 others at a Shiite religious procession in northwestern Pakistan on Sunday, police said, as the minority Muslim sect observes the annual Ashoura holiday.

At least 30 have now died in five attacks on Shiites claimed by the Pakistani Taliban over the past five days, while about 100 were wounded in the run up to the holiday, which commemorates the 7th century death of the Prophet Muhammad's grandson. The schism between Sunni and Shiite Muslims dates back to that time.

Sunday's explosion went off as hundreds of Shiites were passing through the main intersection of the city of Dera Ismail Khan, area police official Abdul Sattar said. An initial investigation suggested a bomb was planted near a shop along the procession route, he added.

Several of injured are in serious condition, said local hospital official Dr. Faridullah Mahsud, adding that three members of a paramilitary unit providing security were among the injured. Mahsud confirmed the five deaths.

The Pakistani Taliban, a Sunni extremist group, frequently attacks Shiites, who they consider heretics. Ashoura ceremonies are a prime targets, since they draw large crowds that march in processions to mourn the martyred Imam Hussein.

Qais Abbas, a Shiite survivor, said the procession was in the Chogla intersection of the city when the bomb went off. One of his relatives was in critical condition, he said, but he and others were moving the wounded to other hospitals that were better equipped.

"Here we are not getting proper care for them, there are not enough doctors or medicines," he said.

The same city was hit by a similar bombing on Saturday, which killed seven and injured 30. On Wednesday night, a Taliban suicide bomber struck a Shiite Muslim procession in Rawalpindi, a garrison city near Islamabad, killing 17 people. Also Wednesday, the Taliban set off two bombs outside a Shiite mosque in the southern city of Karachi, killing one person and wounding 15 others. Pakistani Taliban have claimed responsibility for all the attacks, with spokesman Ehasanullah Ehsan saying by telephone that the group will not relent and "looks forward to more ahead."

Authorities have deployed thousands of additional police across the country to beef up security for the holy day. Mobile phone service has been shut down in all the major cities to prevent such bombings, which officials say often use cellular phones as remote detonators.

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/bomb-hits-pakistani-shiite-procession-kills-5-092931500.html

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Tips to combat childhood obesity | Fitness and Beauty Tips

In today's society are seeing an epidemic rather worrying and called childhood obesity. Children, who are constantly developing and therefore a very fast metabolism, as well as being active in nature, can hardly get fat too.

But the reality is that it is increasingly common that our children have obesity problems, of course, will affect health later not continue with this trend. Therefore, we believe important to share some tips to combat childhood obesity.

Responsibility of adults

Like everything in the education and health of children, those most responsible are the parents should be very aware of what is going to avoid obesity problems in their children and that is something that will affect the level of physical, but, no doubt, emotionally and psychologically to their children.

The rush when cooking and opt for fast food, always give the child everything he asks and totally sedentary life watching TV are some of the reasons that lead to childhood obesity. Parents should be fully involved in achieving weight loss of the child or to prevent overweight.

Preventing obesity involving the whole family

Parents are the role models by children and, in this case, it is difficult to find parents of obese children obese because they acquire the sedentary habits and feeding of their parents.

Therefore, it is important that parents are made obese diet and start exercising as their children follow this example and add these new habits into your daily life.

It is always better to prevent than to treat childhood obesity and for this, the family has to make some efforts. This will avoid many of the health problems associated with obesity.

The childhood obesity has serious risks, for example, the onset of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, bone and joint problems supporting excess weight for age, asthma, sleep problems, liver disease, depression and low self-esteem.

All these problems can be solved if we want our children by following some tips.

Some tips

The main advice is that the whole family eats together in a way that helps the child to eat more fruits and vegetables and eliminate fat you are fat. Avoid whenever possible the fast food, precooked, which is highly palatable to the child but very detrimental to your health.

Apply your imagination and make your favorite dishes healthier. Use olive oil and vegetables for pasta and pizza, for example. You should also reduce the consumption of cheese and other ingredients too fat as butter, deletes or low consumption of mayonnaise on sandwiches is another option. Check all that your child normally eats healthier and make changes gradually.

The gaseous drinks are high in calories and sugar so you have to limit your intake. Try to give healthier beverages such as juices without sugar, but fresh water is the best choice if children are thirsty. Try to drink water throughout the day even in small sips. He will take the hunger pangs and keep them hydrated.

Avoid daily consumption and large amounts of cookies, candies, cakes, etc... Should be limited to awards should have eaten before the healthy foods prepared by mothers.

And of course, the star tip and inescapable, playing exercise. The bike, run games like hiding pilla pilla or ultimately keep moving, it is essential to remove fat in children and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

You might also like

Source: http://makeufits.com/2012/11/tips-to-combat-childhood-obesity.html

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Finance: Individual Bankruptcy Lawyers Post Category - pemyfasigs ...

However, an attorney who handles cases based on bankruptcy is called a las vegas bankruptcy laywer. Ventura bankruptcy attorney If you fail the agreement, your only option could be bankruptcy. You have to understand both disadvantages and advantages before making your decision. Once a judgment continues to be issued, the underlying debt gets to be a secured debt which enable it to be repaid by seizing banks, garnishing wages or seizing property. Again, the limit climbs up to $10,000 in case you, your husband or wife, or your dependent qualify mentioned above. You have to reach reviews and testimonials on the Internet. The lawyer will probably advise the client to keep a record of her or his expenses right after their meeting.

There was obviously a point in time when a petitioner could avoid a bankruptcy hearing totally free of debt. Second, never mask everything out of your lawyer. To make declaring bankruptcy easier, utilize advice using this article. No reminders, no filing of papers or any formalities are required plus your papers are sent to you by legal court as soon as the mandatory time duration is over. You have learned to the right place, West Coast Bankruptcy Attorneys. The pitch is vulnerable to your creditors' approval however, and they have the to pursue any kind of legal action against you need to they ignore the proposition. If that happened to you, you can find some help in the information on this article. Oxnard bankruptcy attorney

A variety of parties that participated within the NEV process opposed Stockton. They assess your financial status and advise accordingly. You have to consult the lawyer before you're making any decision since any decision will certainly impact the financial situation from the individual or perhaps the corporation. It holds true that bankruptcy or perhaps the best credit card debt relief companies can solve your credit card debt problems for the time being. Ventura bankruptcy attorney Many people start selling assets that actually they should kept with them. Although PACER requires a check or credit card to acquire an account, PACER is free if you do not utilize it much.

It therefore becomes crucial that you opt for a seasoned lawyer who've handled similar cases before. A lawyer is likely to make sure that the rights are protected. Sometimes, throughout the meeting, in the event the trustee feels how the court needs additional information regarding a specific aspect from the case, there could be another meeting in future. Sometimes a personal bankruptcy attorney will permit the individual to spend payments on the long period of energy to help them out. As Maryland bankruptcy attorneys we realize this may be the case especially if you are filing to halt a foreclosure because when the automatic stay expires after four weeks the lender can foreclose without looking for the bankruptcy court. t be capable of resort to bankruptcy to unravel your financial problems again. Of course, monitoring with PACER is usually only when you know your debtor has assets.

However, while using difficult economic times and also a multitude of needs to be provided for financially, audience end up finding themselves incapable to cover consequently calling for lenders to require you to definitely file for individual bankruptcy asing reported by chapter 7. The new ruling through the Ninth Circuit Bankruptcy Appellate Panel could create unequal recent results for those choosing to apply for protection under Chapter 13 from the Bankruptcy Code. What to do when your judgment debtor files for bankruptcy, is dependent upon your debtor. You may propose with an IVA even for those who have filed a bankruptcy. Some individuals have turned to bankruptcy, as it can be their only choice for getting rid of your bad financial situation. In order to become able to have an attorney in Gilbert, AZ, you must look out to the qualifications.

Source: https://wiki.waratah.spcc.nsw.edu.au/groups/2012bathursttripmccowenb/weblog/96406/

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Dog Freaks Out Over Beggin' Strips (VIDEO)

We're not sure what's in Beggin' Strips, but judging by this dog's reaction, it must be magic.

Also on HuffPost:

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Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/11/24/dog-freaks-out-over-beggin-strips_n_2185339.html

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Larry Hagman Dead: 'Dallas' TV Star Dies At 81

* Drank four bottles of champagne a day before sobriety
* Son of "Peter Pan" star Mary Martin
* Became campaigner for organ transplants
* (Adds quotes, background)
By Bill Trott
Nov 23 (Reuters) - Larry Hagman, who created one of American television's most supreme villains in the conniving, amoral oilman J.R. Ewing of "Dallas," died on Friday, the Dallas Morning News reported. He was 81.
Hagman died at a Dallas hospital of complications from his battle with throat cancer, the newspaper said, quoting a statement from his family. He had suffered from liver cancer and cirrhosis of the liver in the 1990s after decades of drinking.
Hagman's mother was stage and movie star Mary Martin and he became a star himself in 1965 on "I Dream of Jeannie," a popular television sitcom in which he played Major Anthony Nelson, an astronaut who discovers a beautiful genie in a bottle.
"Dallas," which made its premiere on the CBS network in 1978, made Hagman a superstar. The show quickly became one of the network's top-rated programs, built an international following and inspired a spin-off, imitators and a revival in 2012.
"Dallas" was the night-time soap-opera story of a Texas family, fabulously wealthy from oil and cattle, and its plot brimmed with back-stabbing, double-dealing, family feuds, violence, adultery and other bad behavior.
In the middle of it all stood Hagman's black-hearted J.R. Ewing - grinning wickedly in a broad cowboy hat and boots, plotting how to cheat his business competitors and cheat on his wife. He was the villain TV viewers loved to despise during the show's 356-episode run from 1978 to 1991.
"I really can't remember half of the people I've slept with, stabbed in the back or driven to suicide," Hagman said of his character in Time magazine.
In his autobiography, "Hello Darlin': Tall (and Absolutely True) Tales About My Life," Hagman wrote that J.R. originally was not to be the focus of "Dallas" but that changed when he began ad-libbing on the set to make his character more outrageous and compelling.

'WHO SHOT J.R.?'
To conclude its second season, the "Dallas" producers put together one of U.S. television's most memorable episodes in which Ewing was shot by an unseen assailant. That gave fans months to fret over whether J.R. would survive and who had pulled the trigger. In the show's opening the following season, it was revealed that J.R.'s sister-in-law, Kristin, with whom he had been having an affair, was behind the gun.
Hagman said an international publisher offered him $250,000 to reveal who had shot J.R. and he considered giving the wrong information and taking the money, but in the end, "I decided not to be so like J.R. in real life."
The popularity of "Dallas" made Hagman one of the best-paid actors in television and earned him a fortune that even a Ewing would have coveted. He lost some of it, however, in bad oil investments before turning to real estate.
"I have an apartment in New York, a ranch in Santa Fe, a castle in Ojai outside of L.A., a beach house in Malibu and thinking of buying a place in Santa Monica," Hagman said in a Chicago Tribune interview.
An updated "Dallas" series began in June 2012 on the TNT network with Hagman reprising his J.R. role with original cast members Linda Gray, who played J.R.'s long-suffering wife, Sue Ellen, and Patrick Duffy, who was his brother Bobby. The show was to focus on the sons of J.R. and Bobby.
Hagman had a wide eccentric streak. When he first met actress Lauren Bacall, he licked her arm because he had been told she did not like to be touched and he was known for leading parades on the Malibu beach and showing up at a grocery store in a gorilla suit. Above his Malibu home flew a flag with the credo "Vita Celebratio Est (Life Is a Celebration)" and he lived hard for many years.
In 1967, rock musician David Crosby turned him on to LSD, which Hagman said took away his fear of death, and Jack Nicholson introduced him to marijuana because Nicholson thought he was drinking too much.
Hagman had started drinking as a teenager and said he did not stop until the moment in 1992 when his doctor told him he had cirrhosis of the liver and could die within six months. Hagman wrote that for the past 15 years he had been drinking about four bottles of champagne a day, including while on the "Dallas" set.

LIVER TRANSPLANT
In July 1995, he was diagnosed with liver cancer, which led him to quit smoking, and a month later he underwent a liver transplant.
After giving up his vices, Hagman said he did not lose his zest for life.
"It's the same old Larry Hagman," he told a reporter. "He's just a littler sober-er."
Hagman was born on Sept. 21, 1931, in Weatherford, Texas, and his father was a lawyer who dealt with the Texas oil barons Hagman would later come to portray. He was still a boy when his parents divorced and he went to Los Angeles with Martin, who would become a Broadway and Hollywood musical star.
Hagman eventually landed in New York to pursue acting, making his stage debut there in "The Taming of the Shrew." In New York, he married Maj Axelsson in 1954 while they were in a production of "South Pacific. The marriage produced two children, Heidi and Preston.
Hagman served in the Air Force, spending five years in Europe as the director of USO shows, and on his return to New York he took a starring role in the daytime soap "The Edge of Night." His breakthrough came in 1965 when he landed the "I Dream of Jeannie" role opposite Barbara Eden.
In his later years, Hagman became an advocate for organ transplants and an anti-smoking campaigner. He also was devoted to solar energy, telling the New York Times he had a $750,000 solar panel system at his Ojai estate, and made a commercial in which he portrayed a J.R. Ewing who had forsaken oil for solar power. He was a longtime member of the Peace and Freedom Party, a minor leftist organization in California.
Hagman told the Times that after death he wanted his remains to be "spread over a field and have marijuana and wheat planted and harvest it in a couple of years and then have a big marijuana cake, enough for 200 to 300 people. People would eat a little of Larry."
(Writing by Bill Trott in Washington; Additional reporting by Alex Dobuszinkis in Los Angeles; Editing by Peter Cooney)

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Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/11/24/larry-hagman-dead-dies_n_2180944.html

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