Geaux Teacher ? Advice For Maximizing Your Children's ...

There are many ways to assist your children?s education. Most children attend public schools. You could also choose an expensive private school. There?s another option known as homeschooling. Do you think you might have interest in homeschooling? If so, keep reading for some tips about homeschooling.

If your family includes toddlers, make sure you offer them a variety of activities while you are teaching. have activities for them that coordinate with the older children?s school time. They?ll feel involved without being a distraction.

Network with other local homeschool parents. You can get together and share tips, ask questions and find new friends. The other parents need not influence every aspect of educating your children, but more experienced home educators can share valuable wisdom.

Particular Subject

If you are not comfortable teaching a particular subject or topic, bring in outside help to assist you. There may be a subject your child has to learn that you do not have much knowledge about. If you lack what it takes to teach a particular subject, just find help.

You need to think about the place in which you will teach your kids in the home. It should be roomy and comfortable, but not in a distracting area. It needs space for building, acting and dancing, along with surfaces for taking tests and writing. It should also give you a bird?s eye view of what your kids are up to all the time, as well.

Encourage independent learning. A child should be able to complete their work without you hovering overhead and supervising every step. Let them know your expectations, but allow them plenty of time to work on things. They?ll become more independent, confident and proactive, too.

Learn whether there are other parents who homeschool in your area, and then start a homeschooling group with them. With a group like this your child can get some social interaction. As an added bonus, it will also give you the opportunity to leave the house regularly.

Be crafty when it comes to homeschooling. You can save a lot of money by creating some resources yourself. Look for inexpensive ways to create flash cards and recycle household items as craft supplies. Brainstorm ideas with your children if you need help with finding supplies and resources.

Sports Teams

Homeschooled children do not have to miss out on the the social activities of public school kids and have a right to joining school?s sports teams and activities. Many schools will allow homeschooled students to join school sports teams and bands. By doing this, your child can get the education he or she needs while also being able to obtain social skills.

You can spend time on vacation learning as well. You can visit historical sites or other educational places on vacation. You can take one day to learn something on vacation. Your family can enjoy themselves while also learning.

There are various ways a kid can learn, but a unique way is homeschooling. Use the above advice to make your own home education endeavors more successful. If it seems to work for your family, your kids have a terrific educational experience in store.

Source: http://www.geauxteacher.com/advice-for-maximizing-your-childrens-homeschool-experience/

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Gillmor Gang Live 12.28.12 (TCTV)

Gillmor Gang - Robert Scoble, Keith Teare, Kevin Marks, and Steve Gillmor. Recording today at 1pm Pacific.

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Police deaths down 23 percent this year in US

Mario Tama / Getty Images

Police officers were among those injured during a confrontation with a gunman outside the Empire State Building in New York in August.

By M. Alex Johnson, NBC News

The number of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty fell sharply in 2012, the first full year that two Obama administration police safety programs were in effect, according to preliminary figures released Thursday.

With four days left in the year, 127 federal, state and local officers have died on the job so far, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund reported ? 23 percent fewer than the 165 who were killed last year.

The nonprofit organization keeps a comprehensive tally of all law enforcement officers who die in the line of duty, honoring them each year at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington.

Craig W. Floyd, the organization's chief executive, credited close cooperation among federal, state and local authorities in bringing a new focus on officer safety. The decline follows two years of what he called "alarming" increases.

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"The law enforcement community has banded together with laser-like focus on peace officer safety," Floyd said in a statement.

The decline also comes during the first full year under two Obama administration police safety programs, one run by the Justice Department and one by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The Law Enforcement Safety Initiative, which Attorney General Eric Holder rolled out in March 2011 after meeting with police chiefs from major U.S. cities, created an Officer Safety and Wellness unit at the Justice Department, boosted training and technical assistance for local officers and invested $25 million in 96,000 bullet-resistant vests that were distributed this year among more than 4,000 local agencies.

Read the full report (.pdf)

Firearms-related deaths fell to 49 this year, the memorial fund reported ? down a third from 72 last year and even below the 10-year average of 57 from 2001 to 2010.

Traffic-related incidents remained the biggest hazard, however, as they have been nearly every year since the late 1990s. But they, too, fell significantly, from 60 last year to 50 this year.

The NHTSA and the memorial fund launched their own Officer Safety Initiative in August 2011, funding research and public information campaigns around police safety in traffic-related incidents.?

A breakdown for 2012 wasn't reported, but the campaign noted that 42 percent of officers killed in auto crashes over the last 30 years weren't wearing safety belts. It said nearly all those deaths were preventable.

Other targets of the initiative include:

• Reducing distracted driving ? mainly officers' use of their cellphones instead of their radios, a practice many agencies prohibit that ? which the fund said was responsible for about a quarter of all police traffic deaths.
• Encouraging agencies to invest in high-visibility apparel so officers are easier to see during traffic stops at night.

Watch US News crime videos on NBCNews.com

Shootings and traffic incidents were by far the leading hazards. Third was work-related illnesses, at 14, many of them heart attacks.

Overall, the statistics indicate that, despite its dangerous image, police work isn't among the most hazardous jobs in the U.S. The death totals work out to about 1.56 per every 100,000 sworn federal, state and local officers across the country ? less than half the rate of 3.5 per 100,000 for U.S. workers in all jobs in 2011, the last year for which complete figures were available from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

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Source: http://usnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/12/27/16196680-police-deaths-down-23-percent-this-year-across-us?lite

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Picture of the day: Junior dos Santos shows why holding pads for him is no fun

UFC heavyweight champion Junior dos Santos will put his title on the line at UFC 155 this weekend. He got in some training outside his hotel on Christmas, and his partner showed why holding pads for such a hard hitter is not an easy job. He is wearing padding all over, and do you blame him?

Source: http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mma-cagewriter/picture-day-junior-dos-santos-shows-why-holding-232450809--mma.html

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Retail Sales & Excuses - Business Insider

Retail sales, as I expected, have turned out to be much weaker than what the National Retail Federation (NRF), and other analysts, previously presumed. ?The excuses for the weakness, however, were just as much off the mark as the original analysts' estimates. ? According to an AP article:

"Shoppers were buffeted this year by a string of events that made them less likely to spend: Superstorm Sandy and other bad weather, the distraction of the presidential election and grief about the massacre of schoolchildren in Newtown, Connecticut.

The numbers also show how Washington's current budget impasse is trickling down to Main Street and unsettling consumers. If Americans remain reluctant to spend, analysts say, economic growth could falter next year."

While these excuses may play well in the media, in reality, the fiscal cliff, end of October storm and the school shooting had very little to do with retail sales on a nationwide basis. ?However, what does have much to do with the level of retail sales are incomes.

The chart of day shows the annual change in retail sales which is a very "noisy" data set. ?I have smoothed that data with a 3-month moving average (black line) and overlaid the annual change in wages and salaries (blue line).

Not surprisingly when wages and salaries are growing at a slower rate there is a corresponding weakness in the level of retail sales. ?The peak in wages and salaries occurred in early 2011 with the subsequent growth rate trending weaker. ?This corresponds with the economy which has continued to muddle along at a very anemic pace. ?

While it may be likely that the damage from Hurricane Sandy may have soured some sales, particularly in the North East, it is unlikely to have had much of an effect on the retail sales nation wide. ? For majority of America the "fiscal cliff" debate largely goes unnoticed as it remains a battle between the White House and the "rich" - for the rest the country it is more of a distraction from the things that matter like?"Honey Boo Boo" and "Housewives Of Whereever". ?

What does matter though, as stated above, are incomes. ?The decline in incomes, which can be seen in the roughly 1.2 million person increase in food stamp participation from June to September, is why retail "holiday" spending is weaker. ?With credit limits reduced, incomes stagnant and real costs of living on the rise - it is not surprising that retail sales are far weaker than the NRF's holiday season predictions. ?

While the economy is likely to continue to muddle along in the months ahead, largely due to the impact of $85 billion a month in liquidity from simultaneous QE programs, the strain on the average consumer will remain. ?This is due to the spread between the annual change in real wages and headline inflation.

This spread deteriorates purchasing power and drags on savings. ?Of course, you don't need to go much further than your own pocketbook to realize that your cost of living has increased markedly over the last few years even as reported inflation remains low.

While the NRF still predicts that retail sales will clock in with a 4.1% annualized increase this may still be exuberant. ?We will have to wait until January to analyze the retail sales data for December, along with revisions for October and November, for a better assessment of the holiday shopping season. ?My best guess is that expectations are still too high and final numbers could have a negative impact on the retail sector.

Source: http://www.businessinsider.com/retail-sales-and-excuses-2012-12

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China claims world's longest high-speed rail line, takes travelers 1,428 miles in a workday

China has a thing for pushing the limits of trains. As of today, that includes distance: the country claims to have the world's longest high-speed rail line. Paying ¥865 ($139) will take you 1,428 miles from Beijing in the north to as far as Guangzhou in the south. The 8-hour, 186MPH trip is technically slower than flying, but it's cheaper and potentially less stressful than the often protracted airport boarding process. It's certainly far more viable than the 20-hour rail trip it's replacing, which could lead to some locals choosing a ground route that wasn't even a realistic option until now.

[Image credit: Xinhuanet]

Filed under: Transportation

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Via: Wall Street Journal

Source: Gaotie (translated)

Source: http://feeds.engadget.com/~r/weblogsinc/engadget/~3/A0NXDHAcBTo/

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Health and Fitness: Back Pain ? Some Clues to Discovering the ...

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Recreation-and-Sports Nautical Sayings And Phrases

26 December, 2012 at 7:16 am in Education

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Report: Iran plans Hormuz Strait naval maneuvers

TEHRAN, Iran (AP) ? Iran is planning naval maneuvers in international waters near strategic Strait of Hormuz, where one-fifth of world oil supply passes, the official IRNA news agency reported Tuesday.

The report quoted Iran's navy chief, Adm. Habibollah Sayyari, as saying the maneuvers will begin Friday from the Strait of Hormuz to the northern part of Indian Ocean in an area of about 1 million square kilometers (400,000 square miles).

Iran in the past threatened to close the strait over Western sanctions aimed at its suspect nuclear program but has not repeated the threat lately.

Sayyari said Iran will test-fire missiles and deploy vessels and submarines during the six-day war games.

The semi-official Fars news agency reported that navy of the powerful Revolutionary Guards began a limited naval drill Tuesday in central part of the Persian Gulf.

It said the four-day maneuver is meant to test and assess its forces and includes missile firing, the report said.

Iran regularly holds military exercises to test and upgrade its military equipment as well as to boost its regional military standing.

The latest drills come as the West increases its pressure over Iran's nuclear program. The West suspects Iran may be aiming to produce nuclear weapons.

Iran denies the charge, insisting its nuclear activities have peaceful purposes like power generation and cancer treatment.

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/report-iran-plans-hormuz-strait-naval-maneuvers-145648076.html

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Pope's Christmas message focuses on Mideast, China

Pope Benedict XVI delivers his "Urbi et Orbi" (to the City and to the World) speech from the central loggia of St. Peter's Basilica, at the Vatican, Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2012. Pope Benedict XVI has wished Christmas peace to the world, decrying the slaughter of the "defenseless" in Syria and urging Israelis and Palestinians to find the courage to negotiate. Delivering the Vatican's traditional Christmas day message from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, a weary-looking and hoarse-sounding Benedict on Tuesday also encouraged Arab spring nations, especially Egypt, to build just and respectful societies. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Benedict XVI delivers his "Urbi et Orbi" (to the City and to the World) speech from the central loggia of St. Peter's Basilica, at the Vatican, Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2012. Pope Benedict XVI has wished Christmas peace to the world, decrying the slaughter of the "defenseless" in Syria and urging Israelis and Palestinians to find the courage to negotiate. Delivering the Vatican's traditional Christmas day message from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, a weary-looking and hoarse-sounding Benedict on Tuesday also encouraged Arab spring nations, especially Egypt, to build just and respectful societies. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Britain's Queen Elizabeth II receives flowers from children after attending the British royal family's traditional Christmas Day church service in Sandringham, England, Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2012. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

A Palestinian security officer stands guard as Christian worshippers and tourists celebrate at the Manger Square in front of the Church of the Nativity, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, Monday, Dec. 24, 2012. Thousands of Christian worshippers and tourists arrived in Bethlehem on Monday to mark Christmas at the site where many believe Jesus Christ was born. (AP Photo/Adel Hana)

Pope Benedict XVI delivers his "Urbi et Orbi" (to the City and to the World) speech from the central loggia of St. Peter's Basilica, at the Vatican, Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2012. Pope Benedict XVI has wished Christmas peace to the world, decrying the slaughter of the "defenseless" in Syria and urging Israelis and Palestinians to find the courage to negotiate. Delivering the Vatican's traditional Christmas day message from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, a weary-looking and hoarse-sounding Benedict on Tuesday also encouraged Arab spring nations, especially Egypt, to build just and respectful societies. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Vatican Swiss guards stand attention before Pope Benedict XVI delivers his "Urbi et Orbi" (to the City and to the World) in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2012. Pope Benedict XVI has wished Christmas peace to the world, decrying the slaughter of the "defenseless" in Syria and urging Israelis and Palestinians to find the courage to negotiate. Delivering the Vatican's traditional Christmas day message from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, a weary-looking and hoarse-sounding Benedict on Tuesday also encouraged Arab spring nations, especially Egypt, to build just and respectful societies. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

VATICAN CITY (AP) ? In his Christmas message to the world Tuesday, Pope Benedict XVI called for an end to the slaughter in Syria and for more meaningful negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians, while encouraging more religious freedom under China's new leaders.

Delivering the traditional speech from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, Benedict also encouraged Arab spring nations, especially Egypt, to build just and respectful societies.

The pope prayed that China's new leadership may "esteem the contribution of the religions, in respect for each other" to help build a "fraternal society for the benefit of that noble people."

It was a clear reference to the Chinese government's often harsh treatment of Catholics loyal to the pontiff instead of to the state-sanctioned church. Earlier this month, the Vatican refused to accept the decision by Chinese authorities to revoke the title of a Shanghai bishop, who had been appointed in a rare show of consensus between the Holy See and China.

As the 85-year-old pontiff, bundled up in an ermine-trimmed red cape, gingerly stepped foot on the balcony, the pilgrims, tourists and Romans below backing St. Peter's Square erupted in cheers.

Less than 12 hours earlier, Benedict had led a two-hour long Christmas Eve ceremony in the basilica. He sounded hoarse and looked weary as he read his Christmas message and then holiday greetings in 65 languages.

In his "Urbi et Orbi" speech, which traditionally reviews world events and global challenges, Benedict prayed that "peace spring up for the people of Syria, deeply wounded and divided by a conflict that does not spare even the defenseless and reaps innocent victims."

He called for easier access to help refugees and for "dialogue in the pursuit of a political solution to the conflict."

Benedict prayed that God "grant Israelis and Palestinians courage to end long years of conflict and division, and to embark resolutely on the path to negotiation."

Israel, backed by the United States, opposed the Palestinian statehood bid, saying it was a ploy to bypass negotiations, something the Palestinians deny. Talks stalled four years ago.

Senior Palestinian official Saeb Erekat said that in a meeting with the pope last week, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas "emphasized our total readiness to resume negotiations." The Palestinians have not dropped their demand that Israel first stop settlement activities before returning to the negotiating table.

Hours earlier, in the ancient Bethlehem church built over the site where tradition holds Jesus was born, candles illuminated the sacred site and the joyous sound of prayer filled its overflowing halls.

Overcast skies and a cold wind in the Holy Land didn't dampen the spirits of worshippers in the biblical West Bank town. Bells pealed and long lines formed inside the fourth-century Church of the Nativity complex as Christian faithful waited to see the grotto that is Jesus' traditional birthplace.

Duncan Hardock, 24, a writer from MacLean, Virginia, traveled to Bethlehem from the republic of Georgia, where he had been teaching English. After passing through the separation barrier Israel built to ward off West Bank attackers, he walked to Bethlehem's Manger Square where the church stands.

"I feel we got to see both sides of Bethlehem in a really short period of time," Hardock said. "On our walk from the wall, we got to see the lonesome, closed side of Bethlehem ... But the moment we got into town, we're suddenly in the middle of the party."

Bethlehem lies 10 kilometers (6 miles) south of Jerusalem. Entry to the city is controlled by Israel, which occupied the West Bank in 1967.

For those who couldn't fit into the cavernous Bethlehem church, a loudspeaker outside broadcast the Christmas day service to hundreds of faithful in the square.

Their Palestinian hosts, who welcome this holiday as the high point of their city's year, were especially joyous this season, proud of the United Nations' recognition of an independent state of Palestine just last month.

"From this holy place, I invite politicians and men of good will to work with determination for peace and reconciliation that encompasses Palestine and Israel in the midst of all the suffering in the Middle East," said the top Roman Catholic cleric in the Holy Land, Latin Patriarch Fouad Twal in his annual address.

Back at the Vatican, Benedict offered encouragement to countries after the Arab spring of democracy protests. He had a special word for Egypt, "blessed by the childhood of Jesus."

Without citing the tumultuous politics and clashes in the region, he urged the North African region to build societies "founded on justice and respect for the dignity of every person."

Benedict prayed for the return of peace in Mali and harmony in Nigeria, where, he recalled "savage acts of terrorism continue to reap victims, particularly among Christians."

The Vatican for decades has been worried about the well-being of its flock in China, who are loyal to the pope in defiance of the communist's government support of an officially sponsored church, and relations between Beijing and the Holy See are often tense.

Speaking about China's newly installed regime leaders, Benedict expressed hope that "they will esteem the contribution of the religions, in respect for each other, in such a way that they can help to build a fraternal society for the benefit of that noble people and of the whole world."

Acknowledging Latin America's predominant Christian population, he urged government leaders to carry out commitments to development and to fighting organized crime.

In Britain, the royal family was attending Christmas Day church services at St. Mary Magdelene Church on Queen Elizabeth II's sprawling Sandringham estate, though there were a few notable absences. Prince William is spending the holiday with his pregnant wife Kate and his in-laws in the southern England village of Bucklebury, while Prince Harry is serving with British troops in Afghanistan.

Later Tuesday, the queen delivered her traditional, prerecorded Christmas message, which for the first time was broadcast in 3D.

At Canterbury cathedral, Anglican leader Rowan Williams delivered his final Christmas day sermon as archbishop of Canterbury. He acknowledged how the church's General Synod's vote against allowing women to become bishops had cost credibility and said the faithful felt a "real sense of loss" over the decision.

In the U.S., the Rev. Jesse Jackson brought his message of anti-violence and gun control to a Chicago jail, using his traditional Christmas Day sermon at the facility to challenge inmates to help get guns off the streets.

"We've all been grieving about the violence in Newtown, Connecticut, the last few days," he told reporters after addressing inmates, referring to the school shooting that killed 26 children and adults. "Most of those here today ... have either shot somebody or been shot. We're recruiting them to help us stop the flow of guns."

___

Dalia Nammari in Bethlehem, Cassandra Vinograd in London and Sophia Tareen in Chicago contributed to this report.

Associated Press

Source: http://hosted2.ap.org/APDEFAULT/cae69a7523db45408eeb2b3a98c0c9c5/Article_2012-12-25-Christmas/id-da65b17767d44de88acecb816f4a07ac

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India's Prime Minister Appeals for Calm (Voice Of America)

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Hugo Chavez Cancer Surgery: Bolivia's President Evo Morales

HAVANA -- Bolivian President Evo Morales has made a lightning trip to Havana where key ally Hugo Chavez is convalescing after cancer surgery.

Morales did not speak to foreign journalists during his weekend visit. Cuban state-run media didn't confirm that he visited Chavez, but said he came "to express his support" for the Venezuelan president. The Cuban government had invited media to cover Morales' arrival Saturday and departure Sunday but withdrew the invitation with no explanation.

Photos released by Cuban media showed President Raul Castro greeting Morales at the airport in Havana.

Morales aides said Monday he planned to make a statement later about Chavez.

Chavez underwent on Dec. 11 his fourth cancer-related operation since last year, two months after winning reelection to a six-year term. Venezuelan officials say his condition is stable.

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Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/12/24/hugo-chavez-cancer-surger_n_2360282.html

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Self-Improvement Affirmations with Self-Hypnosis Audios Deal! | Self ...

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Source: http://selfhelphypnosis.co.uk/self-improvement-affirmations-with-self-hypnosis-audios-deal

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Source: http://johirkhan72.blogspot.com/2012/12/self-improvement-affirmations-with-self.html

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Video: NRA speaks out, reignites gun control debate (cbsnews)

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Video: Weekend TODAY?s potluck dinner

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Key events in Egypt's revolution and transition

CAIRO (AP) ? Egyptians are voting Saturday in the second round of a referendum on disputed draft constitution that has polarized the country and plunged it into its worst crisis since the ouster of President Hosni Mubarak in last year's uprising.

The referendum and draft charter have pitted supporters of the Islamist Morsi against liberal parties, youth groups, Christians and a large group of moderate Muslims who fear the new document enshrines too big a role for Islam and undermines freedoms of expression, gender equality and rights of minorities.

The new crisis means that the political instability that followed Mubarak's February 2011 overthrow will likely continue.

Here are some key events from 23 months of turmoil and transition.

Jan. 25, 2011 ? Egyptians hold nationwide demonstrations against the authoritarian rule of Mubarak, who has led the country for nearly three decades, protesting against police brutality and demanding social justice.

Jan. 26 ? A large security force moves into Cairo's Tahrir Square, beating and arresting protesters, using rubber bullets and tear gas. Three protesters are killed in similar protests outside of Cairo ? among the first of what will become about 900 dead from clashes during the uprising.

Jan. 28 ? Protesters burn down the ruling party's headquarters and the military is deployed. Police virtually vanish from Egypt's streets, leading to a wave of looting, robbery and arson. Protesters occupy Tahrir square for a prolonged sit-in.

Feb. 11 ? Mubarak steps down and turns power over to the military. Two days later the body of top generals, the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, dissolves parliament and suspends the constitution, meeting two key demands of protesters.

March 19 ? Egyptians cast their first vote on constitutional amendments sponsored by the ruling military which set the timeline for the country's transition to democracy, including the first parliamentary and presidential elections.

Nov. 28 ? Voting begins in Egypt's first parliamentary elections since Mubarak's ouster. The election is held over a period of several weeks and concludes in January with nearly half the seats won by the previously banned Muslim Brotherhood.

April 20, 2012 ? The presidential campaign officially begins. A first round of voting on May 23-24 determines that Morsi and Ahmed Shafiq, the last prime minister under Mubarak, will face each other in a runoff.

June 14 ? The Supreme Constitutional Court rules to dissolve the Islamist-dominated lower house of parliament on grounds that a third of the chamber members were elected illegally. The military swiftly closes down parliament.

June 16-17 ? Egyptians vote in the runoff between Morsi and Shafiq. The generals issue a "constitutional declaration" giving them sweeping authority to maintain their grip on power and limiting the powers of the president.

June 24 ? Election officials declare Morsi the winner of Egypt's first free election, with 51.7 percent of the vote.

June 29 ? Morsi, now president-elect, delivers a rousing speech in Tahrir Square, vowing to fight on behalf of the people and to restore powers the generals have taken away from him.

June 30 ? Morsi takes his formal oath before the Supreme Constitutional Court. A day earlier he had read a symbolic oath in Tahrir Square, the birthplace of the revolution.

July 8 ? Morsi issues a surprise decree overruling the court's dissolution of parliament and challenging the generals.

July 9 ? Parliament convenes in defiance of the court ruling disbanding it. In a short session it approves a new law that effectively places the panel tasked with writing the country's new constitution above judicial review.

Aug. 12 ? In a bold move, Morsi orders the retirement of the head of the ruling military council, longtime defense minister Field Marshal Hussein Tantawi and his chief of staff. He also cancels the military-declared constitutional amendments that gave the top generals wide powers and undermined his authority. The move was seen as way to curb the military's role in political affairs but it also gave Morsi the power to legislate in the absence of parliament.

Nov. 19 ? Several members of liberal parties and representatives of Egypt's churches announce their withdrawal from the 100-member constituent assembly tasked with writing Egypt's constitution, protesting what they said were attempts to impose ultraconservative Islamist content.

Nov. 21- Morsi negotiates a cease-fire deal between Hamas and Israel, after an 8-day conflict that threatened to widen into an Israeli ground operation into the Gaza Strip. It was a major diplomatic triumph for Morsi, establishing his role as a regional player with sway over the militant group Hamas, and influence with Israel and the U.S.

Nov. 22 ? In a surprise move, Morsi unilaterally decreed greater authorities for himself, giving the presidency, the panel writing the constitution and the upper house of parliament, both dominated by Islamists, immunity from judicial oversight. The move came just ahead of court decisions that could have dissolved the bodies.

Nov. 23 ? Days of protests follow Morsi's decrees, which were perceived as a power grab. Clashes between pro- and anti-Morsi supporters also erupted, and the offices of the Muslim Brotherhood were attacked in different governorates.

Nov. 24 ? Judges push back against Morsi's decrees, calling them an "unprecedented assault." Many courts begin an open-ended strike.

Nov. 26 ? Morsi meets with judges to tell them he doesn't intend to infringe on their authority. He does not back down from his decree, however.

Nov. 27 ? The opposition holds the largest rally to date against Islamists in Tahrir square. More than 200,000 people pack the square, chanting that Morsi should "leave." Clashes between the president's supporters and opponents break out in other governorates.

Nov. 30 ? In a marathon session overnight, the Islamist-dominated panel writing the constitution rushes the draft through, seeking to preempt the court ruling that could dissolve the panel. The move renewed mass protests.

Dec. 1 ? Despite the protests, Morsi sets the referendum date for the disputed charter for Dec. 15. Hundreds of Islamist protesters besiege the Supreme Constitutional Court, a day before it is set to rule on the legality of the panel that drafted the constitution.

Dec. 2 ? The Islamist protest outside the Supreme Constitutional Court leads it to cancel its ruling on the legality of the constitutional panel and declare an open-ended strike, calling it the "blackest day" in the history of Egypt's judiciary.

Dec. 4 ? More than 100,000 protesters march on the presidential palace, demanding the cancellation of the referendum on the constitution and the writing of a new one.

Dec. 5 ? Supporters of Morsi attack a sit-in outside the presidential palace in clashes that last through the night. At least 10 die in the fighting.

Dec. 6 ? Morsi refuses to call off the referendum, calling for a national dialogue in an address to the nation. The opposition rejects the call, saying it was not serious since Morsi refused to rescind any of his recent moves.

Dec. 8 ? Morsi cancels the decrees that gave him immunity from judicial oversight but keeps the referendum on time. Opposition vows to continue protests.

Dec. 12 ? Opposition calls on its supporters to vote no in the referendum. Pro- and anti-constitution demonstrations continue.

Dec. 15 ? Around a third of the 25 million voters eligible for the first leg of the constitutional referendum cast ballots, despite the judges' boycott. Unofficial results show that 56 percent voted "yes" for the draft constitution.

Dec. 16 ? Egypt's rights groups say the constitutional referendum was marred by widespread violations.

Dec. 18 ? Prosecutor General Talaat Abdullah submits his resignation just a month after Morsi appointed him, following a sit-in by fellow prosecutors who accused him of pressuring a judge not to release some 130 anti-Morsi protesters from detention.

Dec. 19 ? Top elections official Zaghloul el-Balshi resigns, citing medical problem.

Dec. 20 ? Prosecutor General Talaat Abdaullah withdraws his resignation.

Dec. 21 ? Islamists hold massive rally in the country's second largest city of Alexandria to show solidarity with religious clerics.

Dec. 22 ? More than 25 million Egyptians eligible to vote will head to polling stations in 17 provinces to cast their ballots in the second round.

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/key-events-egypts-revolution-transition-082102564.html

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Sneak of the Month: Children, Teens Recruited as Drug Mules in ...

Illegal drugs found taped to the body of a minor caught at the U.S. border. The teen was being used as a ?mule? by the Mexican drug cartels./NBC San Diego 7

NBC7 in San Diego reported that Mexican drug cartels are aggressively recruiting children and teens to smuggle drugs across the border. Federal authorities are alarmed at what appears to be an increase in children as young as 12 being used as drug mules.

Not only are the drug cartels using these children to traffic marijuana, but now increasingly the drug of choice is methamphetamine. Traditionally, drug cartels recruit the kids with tales of easy money and the taunt that as a minor, even if caught, the penalties would be inconsequential. The average mule makes between $75 and $300 for crossing the border with approximately 6 kilograms taped?to their bodies. And, if caught with heavy narcotics, like meth, these minors will end up with felonies on their criminal record, not just a slap on the wrist.

The drug cartels are recruiting children outside schools and malls and reaching teens by using social media. In 2011, records show 190 children (ages 18 and under) were caught smuggling drugs along the?San Diego County-Mexico border.

This border sector includes over 7,000 square miles including 60 linear miles of international boundary with Mexico and 114 coastal border miles along the Pacific Ocean patrolled by the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP). Directly south of San Diego lie the Mexican cities of Tijuana and Tecate, Baja California, which have a combined population of more than four and a half million people.

?The drug cartels? shift to using kids and teens as a high reward, low risk method of trafficking drugs across our nation?s border is something hard for most Americans to imagine, unless you know how violent, ruthless, and amoral the cartels are,? said U.S. Border Security Council National Spokesman Steve LeBlanc. ?Our country?s border security is under fire as never?before with some of our nation?s?most precious resources ? our children ? caught in the crosshairs.?

U.S. Border Security Council is a national grassroots advocacy group, which the IRS has determined to be tax-exempt under the provisions of Section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code. You can reach organization by mail at P.O. Box 96197, Washington, DC 20090 or by email at info@usbordersecurity.info

Source: http://usbordersecurity.info/sneak-of-the-month-children-teens-recruited-as-drug-mules-in-record-numbers

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Do you Want to be a Software Developer? | Quality Life Resources

Software Developers

Software developers are the reason why you can read this article on the Web. They are the people behind your browser, email client, office suite, mobile apps- basically just about anything that can run on a computer. Without them, these technologies that we enjoy today would not exist.

Computer programmers or software developers perform important roles in the IT industry. Some create software applications that allow end-users to perform tasks on their computers and gadgets, while others would create the fundamental systems that can control computer networks and devices. Their education usually consists of a degree or diploma in computer science, programming, information technology and other related fields. A developer?s responsibilities may vary from company to company, but their usual tasks include:

1. Reviewing and maintaining systems.

2. Writing code for ongoing projects.

3. Testing software in a controlled environment

4. Participating in software developments.

5. Preparing software training manuals and tutorials for users.

Other necessary traits to be a successful software developer are:

1. Excellent programming skills.

A thorough knowledge in at least one or more programming languages (especially modern languages like Ruby or Python) is a must. Most employers look for those with experience in PHP, Java, Oracle, Linux, C++ and Linux. There?s always a high demand for developers who know their way around these languages and programs.

2. Familiarity with industry standard hardware and software.

These are the tools and equipment that a developer needs to do his or her job successfully.

3. Communication skills.

Working on a software development project usually involves communicating with a whole team of people.

4. An eye for the smallest of details.

Software engineers and developers should be able to spot problems as they appear.

What Makes a Good Software Developer/ Programmer?

1. Studying

Companies usually provide training for their junior employees. But developers/ programmers who excel at their chosen fields constantly study new trends in the industry. They always go beyond what they?ve learned during training. Sometimes, they also undergo new software training to keep their minds fresh and up-to-date with the latest developments in IT.

A great way to improve programming skills is to read code written by others. This method allows newbie programmers to familiarize themselves with a programming language fast. They can also pick up new methods and techniques for them to utilize in future assignments.

2. Enjoying the Job

Passion always builds excellence. When people love what they do, the better they become at performing their jobs. The same goes for those who work in the IT industry and other computer-related professions.

Google allows their employees to allocate twenty percent of their work time for personal assignments. This time could be used on projects that they are genuinely interested in. A lot of innovative products have resulted from this system, including the famous Gmail and Google News service.

The same concept can be used for software developers. It pays to do projects that are not company mandated. They could do web or mobile apps on the side for fun and for practice. The important thing is to really immerse and enjoy one?s self with his or her chosen career.

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This is a guest post.? Thank you for reading my article for more information please visit software developers.

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96% Sister

All Critics (51) | Top Critics (15) | Fresh (49) | Rotten (2)

"Sister" avoids sentimental indulgence. There's no room for wallowing in this spare, almost ascetic exercise ...

French-born director and co-screenwriter Ursula Meier balances the scenario's bleak, wrenching aspects with a stirring confidence in the redemptive power of love.

Seydoux perfectly captures the anger and self-defeat of ill-educated, hedonistic, man-chasing young women who live on the fringes.

L?a Seydoux fulfills Louise, and Kacey Mottet Klein, as Simon, is one more to join the pantheon of film's excellent child actors.

Haunting and sad. And absolutely worth seeing.

The chemistry between the two leads is a razor's-edge dance: feral, childish, tender and always complex.

We come away relieved and somehow chastened, the same way we might feel after having our pocket picked by a true artist.

The storytelling is exciting and the characters well-observed.

For the most part a distant film, Sister supplies a full behavioral experience that's riveting at times, with lead performances by Lea Seydoux and Kacey Mottet Klein communicating isolation in bravely vulnerable ways.

Emotionally engaging and impeccably crafted

Klein and Seydoux give such naturalistic performances that they're never overwhelmed by the spectacle.

"Sister" is loose and episodic, but held together with nicely sketched characters.

[A]voids bathos. . .reveals unexpected depth in a heartbreaking bond. . . Different classes conflict [in] adjacent spaces . . .in spare, realistic Dardennes' style.

Meier draws out wonderfully naturalistic performances from her young stars, with Mottet Klein particularly good as the young roustabout Simon ...

It comes over like a subtle short story and is well acted.

Meier's portrait of Simon ... is richly atmospheric and never sentimental.

An enigmatic, heartfelt account of a vulnerable young boy's yearning for a better life.

Most intriguing is how the writers and director have transformed what's essentially a rather dark, bleak story into something involving and emotionally resonant, all without ever turning sentimental.

It is an interesting and well-made movie, though with an uncertain ending.

Sister gradually reveals pattern in its tapestry of everyday life.

An expert piece of storytelling with a host of strong character turns and thematic depth to burn.

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Source: http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/lenfant_den_haut/

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Adding Document Images to Book - Family Tree Maker software ...

Hi,

I'm making a book in Family Tree Maker 2012 and I'd like to add census documents and such. However, I am having a lot of trouble getting them to be the right size. I use add media item and insert them, but the image sizing options are too limited. 67% causes the citations to overflow the page (is there a way to get rid of those?) and 50% is way to small to see. Is there a way to make the image somewhere inbetween those sizes or insert them in a different way? Thank you!

Source: http://boards.ancestry.co.uk/topics.software.famtreemaker/9256/mb.ashx

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EU to re-launch aid to Guinea after vote date set

CONAKRY, Guinea (AP) ? The European Union says it has agreed to re-launch ?174.3 million in development funds to Guinea.

The move comes after the West African nation finally set a date for long-delayed legislative elections.

The announcement on Friday said Guinea's government had "presented a credible timetable for the organization of legislative elections."

The head of Guinea's electoral commission announced earlier this month that the vote will go ahead in May, though 10 members of the 25-member body later released a statement criticizing the move.

The West African country has not had a functioning parliament for four years, and only held its first democratic presidential election in 2010.

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/eu-launch-aid-guinea-vote-date-set-180259658.html

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