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These beaches have gone to the dogs; lucky pooches lap up the shoreline where they run free

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May 232013

LOS ANGELES, Calif. – When Craig Haverstick approaches the beach with his dog in tow, Stanley instinctively knows he’s in for a treat. His ears perk up and he starts sniffing the salty air.

“Chesapeake Bay retrievers are like plants, they need to be watered every now and then,” Haverstick said of the 9-year-old he’s been taking to the beach in San Diego weekly for eight years. “We have some great dog beaches. Dogs and people both drool over them.”

Dog beaches account for a tiny fraction of the thousands of miles of U.S. shoreline, but they are treasured by pet owners and their pooches.

“Off-leash dog beaches are a canine’s dream come true,” said Lisa Porter, owner of Pet Hotels of America, a travel website that lists thousands of beaches and parks where dogs are allowed on leash or can run free.

Every beach has its own draw. San Diego offers three off-leash options: Fiesta Island in Mission Bay is great for swimming; Ocean Beach Dog Beach is good for dogs to play together; and Coronado’s Dog Beach is described as magical.

Beaches where unleashed dogs are allowed complete freedom are typically fenced, offer drinking water and showers for dogs, bags to pick up dog feces and trash cans.

Dog lovers say the biggest problem is that there aren’t enough beaches for their pets and parking is often scarce.

Efforts to create more pooch-friendly beaches, such as one that died in Santa Monica two years ago, have run into resistance from California State Parks.

Critics say letting beaches go to the dogs threatens species such as shore birds, jeopardizes the safety of visitors, ruins the experience for beachgoers and can pollute water and sand with poop and urine.

Fans who frequent the beaches say they provide a great playground for their hounds and can even be therapeutic.

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These beaches have gone to the dogs; lucky pooches lap up the shoreline where they run free

Press Releases: Release of the 2012 International Religious Freedom Report

Freedom Comments Off

May 202013

AMBASSADOR COOK: Thank you, Mr. Secretary. Its an honor to serve you.

Good morning. The 2012 International Religious Freedom Report provides a factual rendering of the status of religious freedom around the world. Religious freedom is essential for a stable, peaceful, and thriving society. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights enshrines the freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. This is the standard against which we assess religious freedom and the International Religious Freedom Report. This report seeks to advance religious freedom by shining a spotlight on abuses and violations. As Secretary Kerry said, when a country fails to provide equal protection of religious freedom for all, the groundwork is laid for political instability and sectarian violence. When a government favors one group or set of beliefs and restricts the rights of others, some in society may take that as tacit approval to further target marginalized groups.

As this report makes clear, much work remains to be done. Secretary Kerry just described some of the most troubling trends, and please let me note some others. Thousands of people around the world are jailed because of what they believe or dont believe. In Iran, more than 116 Bahais are in prison for teaching and expressing their faith, and many Christians, Sufis, and Sunnis are facing similar treatment. Additionally, a Christian pastor named Saeed Abedini, who is an American and Iranian citizen, was sentenced to eight years in prison just for his beliefs. In Eritrea, people are detained on account of their religious beliefs. Some have reportedly died due to torture or lack of medical treatment. We seek the release of all individuals detained or imprisoned because of their beliefs.

Many governments fail to prosecute the perpetrators of crimes motivated by religious animosity, creating a climate of impunity that fueled further discrimination and violence. In Egypt, the government failed to appropriately investigate and prosecute perpetrators and often did not effectively intervene when sectarian violence arose. In Pakistan, religious minorities continue to encounter societal discrimination and violence, and authorities frequently fail to arrest the perpetrators. As sectarian violence claims more lives each year in Pakistan, over 200 Shia were killed in the first two months of this year alone. In Nigeria, elements of the extremist sect Boko Haram claimed the lives of both Christians and Muslims. The government response has involved gross violations of human rights of a civilian population and deepened impunity.

Governments must fulfill their responsibility to condemn religious intolerance and bring to justice perpetrators of abuses. Just last month, I traveled to China where I pressed government officials to uphold the right to religious freedom for all and to stop abusing this universal right. The government restricts the practices of many groups, including Tibetan Buddhists, Uighur Muslims, unregistered Christian congregations, and Falun Gong practitioners. In 2012, 83 Tibetans chose to self-immolate to protest Chinese policies. The total number now is over 100. We urge governments to protect the rights of all to hold, express, or change their faith without fear.

In Syria, the government targeted faith groups it deemed a threat, including members of the countrys Sunni majority and religious minorities. Such targeting included killing, detention, and harassment. Syria excuse me Syria Orthodox Archbishop Yohanna Ibrahim and Greek Orthodox Archbishop Paul Yazigi were kidnapped April 22nd by persons unknown, and still remain missing.

Societal intolerance against religious minorities is on the rise. Too often this intolerance finds expression in acts of violence, vandalism, and desecration. In Iraq, extremists target religious ceremonies, leading people not to attend services out of fear for their safety. And sectarian violence directed at Muslims spread to central Burma in March 2013, resulting in casualties, displacement, and the destruction of places of worship.

Anti-Semitic rhetoric persists in some Middle Eastern media and too often appears in public discourse in some countries in Europe, especially where anti-Semitic parties have gained seats in parliaments. We continue to see violent attacks against Jews in Europe, and I look forward now to working with my new colleague Ira Forman, who was introduced to you by Secretary Kerry. I look forward to working with him to combat this pernicious problem.

Anti-Muslim sentiment and discrimination are evident in places as diverse as Europe and Asia. We call on societies and governments to foster tolerance and hold perpetrators of violence accountable.

We also partner with members of international communities to support religious freedom, to protect religious minorities, and to safeguard freedom of expression. We particularly advocate engaging women and youth on religious freedom as their voices are a positive force for change.

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Press Releases: Release of the 2012 International Religious Freedom Report

Liberty Mutual Insurance Celebrates Two Firefighters For Outstanding Heroism And Community Service With National ...

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May 202013

BOSTON, May 20, 2013 /PRNewswire/ –Liberty Mutual Insurance, one of the nation’s leading home and auto insurers, is today celebrating America’s firefighters by announcing the recipients of its National Firemark Award. Lieutenant Michael Cosgrove of Selden, N.Y., is this year’s honoree of the Liberty Mutual Firemark Award for Heroism and Fire Fighter Michael McLeieer of Merrimac, Mass., has earned the Liberty Mutual Firemark Award for Community Service and Public Education. Both Cosgrove and McLeieer have gone above and beyond their responsibilities to demonstrate their bravery and commitment to education. To reward these everyday heroes, Liberty Mutual will award both the Selden and Merrimac Fire Departments each with a $10,000 grant.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110607/NE15669LOGO )

A committee comprised of numerous fire safety organizations annually selects the Liberty Mutual National Firemark Award winners from among a pool of more than 150 firefighter nominees, each of whom had received a local Firemark Award from a Liberty Mutual Insurance office in their community throughout 2012. The selection committee includes representatives from such fire safety groups as the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the National Volunteer Fire Council, the National Fire Protection Association, the National Association of State Fire Marshals, the Society of Fire Protection Engineers, and the Center for Public Safety Excellence.

“We’re excited to present this year’s Liberty Mutual National Firemark Award to both Michael Cosgrove and Michael McLeieer because they both truly exemplify selfless commitments to keeping the public safe and educating people about the importance of fire safety,” said James MacPhee, senior vice president and Chief Marketing Officer, Liberty Mutual Personal Insurance. “At Liberty Mutual Insurance, responsibility is ingrained in our culture, so we couldn’t be more proud to see these two men personifying responsibility at the highest level in their communities.”

Liberty Mutual National Firemark Award for HeroismLieutenant Michael Cosgrove, Selden Fire Department

It is difficult to say anyone else could be as deserving for this award as Michael Cosgrove. Two years ago, Cosgrove proved his heroic efforts when he put his life on the line to help save someone else. On July 3, 2011, Cosgrove, a 15-year veteran, received a page for a fire in a single family house, just eight doors down from his home. Naturally, his instinct kicked in and he immediately responded to the scene. He was able to successfully remove all the occupants from the first floor and after hearing reports of a trapped person on the second floor, Cosgrove extended a ladder outside the house and made his way to a second floor window. From outside the building he tended to the unconscious occupant and held the individual near the window, suffering second and third degree burns in the process.

This March, Cosgrove experienced an unfortunate set of circumstances. When a call came in for a house fire in his hometown, he had no idea that he would be responding his own home. A man driving under the influence crashed his pickup truck into Cosgrove’s house, severing a natural gas line and igniting the house into flames. Although Cosgrove was anticipating having to rescue his wife and two children from the burning house, upon arrival firefighters were met by his family who had safely escaped the fire. Although Cosgrove and his unit were able to get to work extinguishing the flames, his house suffered severe damages.

Selden Fire Chief Joseph Leavens says that the funds will be allocated toward purchasing reflective post markers that will be installed on every public fire hydrant in the district. Members of the fire department will be installing them, so they will have the opportunity to interact with the community and educate residents on the need to keep the hydrants clear and accessible. These markers will help firefighters locate hydrants at night and during times of heavy snow.

Cosgrove was thrilled to learn that he won The Liberty Mutual Firemark Award this year. “I’m very humbled by this honor and by the grant money from Liberty Mutual Insurance,” said Cosgrove. “This money will help increase the safety of our community by ensuring that every hydrant in the district is marked and visible, especially helpful in times of heavy snow like we experienced last year.”

Liberty Mutual National Firemark Award for Community Service Michael McLeieer, Merrimac Fire Department

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Cytomedix to Present at the World Stem Cells & Regenerative Medicine Congress 2013

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May 182013

GAITHERSBURG, MD–(Marketwired – May 17, 2013) – Cytomedix, Inc. (OTCQX: CMXI), a regenerative therapies company commercializing and developing innovative platelet and adult stem cell technologies, announced today that Edward Field, the Company’s Chief Operating Officer, has been invited to make a presentation on Partnering & Collaboration at the World Stem Cells & Regenerative Medicine Congress 2013, which will be held May 21-23, 2013 in London, United Kingdom.

Presentation Details

Time: Tuesday, May 21, 2013 @ 11:55am BST (6:55 am EST)

Track Title: Commercialisation through Collaboration: What Does Partnering In This Industry Actually Look Like?

Location: Victoria Park Plaza Hotel, London, UK

During the presentation, Mr. Field will highlight Cytomedix’s two collaborations that are advancing clinical stage therapies.The first is a collaboration with the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the Cardiovascular Cell Therapy Research Network (CCTRN) for conduct of the PACE study, an 80 patient, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial designed to look at the safety and efficacy of ALD-301 in peripheral artery disease patients diagnosed with intermittent claudication.This is the first ever randomized clinical trial to look at the benefits of autologous stem cell therapy in this indication.The second collaboration is with Duke University Medical Center, which is conducting a Phase 1 clinical study with ALD-451 in patients that have been treated for glioblastomas, which is the most aggressive form of brain cancer.This open-label study is designed to enroll up to 12 patients and is intended to demonstrate the safety and feasibility of ALD-451 when administered intravenously in patients with grade IV malignant glioma following surgery, radiation therapy and treatment with temozolomide.

About the World Stem Cells Regenerative Medicine Congress 2013The World Stem Cells & Regenerative Medicine Congress 2013 is Europe’s largest and most senior conference for the stem cell research and regenerative medicine community.It is now in its 8th year. Topics covered will include streamlining clinical development, commercialising a stem cell-based therapy and exploiting alternative sources of funding. For more information please visit: http://www.terrapinn.com/2013/stemcells/index.stm.

About Cytomedix, Inc. Cytomedix, Inc. is a fully integrated regenerative medicine company commercializing and developing innovative platelet and adult stem cell separation products that enhance the body’s natural healing processes. The Company’s advanced autologous technologies offer clinicians a new treatment paradigm for wound and tissue repair. The Company’s patient-derived PRP systems are marketed by Cytomedix in the U.S. and distributed internationally. Our commercial products include the AutoloGel System, cleared by the FDA for wound care and the Angel Whole Blood Separation System. The Company is developing novel regenerative therapies using our proprietary ALDH Bright Cell (“ALDH”) technology to isolate a unique, biologically active population of a patient’s own stem cells. A Phase 2 trial evaluating the use of ALDHbr for the treatment of ischemic stroke is underway. For additional information please visit www.cytomedix.com.

Safe Harbor Statement – Statements contained in this press release not relating to historical facts are forward-looking statements that are intended to fall within the safe harbor rule for such statements under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The information contained in the forward-looking statements is inherently uncertain, and Cytomedix’ actual results may differ materially due to a number of factors, many of which are beyond Cytomedix’ ability to predict or control, including among many others, risks and uncertainties related to the Company’s ability to successfully execute its Angel and AutoloGel sales strategies, to achieve AutoloGel expected reimbursement rates in 2013, to meet its stroke trial enrollment rates, the Company’s ability to successfully integrate the Aldagen acquisition, the Company’s ability to expand patient populations as contemplated, its ability to provide Medicare patients with access as expected, the Company’s expectations of favorable future dialogue with potential strategic partners, and its ability to successfully manage contemplated clinical trials, to manage and address the capital needs, human resource, management, compliance and other challenges of a larger, more complex and integrated business enterprise, viability and effectiveness of the Company’s sales approach and overall marketing strategies, commercial success or acceptance by the medical community, competitive responses, the Company’s ability to raise additional capital and to continue as a going concern, and Cytomedix’s ability to execute on its strategy to market the AutoloGel System as contemplated. To the extent that any statements made here are not historical, these statements are essentially forward-looking. The Company uses words and phrases such as “believes,” “forecasted,” “projects,” “is expected,” “remain confident,” “will” and/or similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements in this press release. Undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events to differ from the forward-looking statements. More information about some of these risks and uncertainties may be found in the reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission by Cytomedix, Inc. Cytomedix operates in a highly competitive and rapidly changing business and regulatory environment, thus new or unforeseen risks may arise. Accordingly, investors should not place any reliance on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results. Except as is expressly required by the federal securities laws, Cytomedix undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, changed circumstances or future events or for any other reason. Additional risks that could affect our future operating results are more fully described in our U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including our Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2012, as amended to date, and other subsequent filings. These filings are available at www.sec.gov.

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Cytomedix to Present at the World Stem Cells & Regenerative Medicine Congress 2013

Challenges to Press Freedom

Freedom Comments Off

May 052013

Challenges to Press Freedom

Bhanu Bhakta Acharya

Press freedom is cornerstone in building strong democracies, enhancing good governance, and promoting justice and peace. It plays a vital role in the transformation of society by reshaping its political, economic and social aspects to defend and promote freedom of expression.

Along with the countries around the world, Nepal is celebrating the 21st World Press Freedom Day with the slogan Safe to speak: Securing freedom of expression in all media emphasises the safety of journalists and media workers, combating impunity of crimes against freedom of expression, and securing a free and open Internet are the key themes included in the slogan, which are very contextual in the Nepalese press freedom scenario. In the context of high level of political vulnerability, after the failure of the Constituent Assembly, and uncertain election, the relevance of the theme is significantly contextual to our socio-political milieu.

Over the past two decades, the world has experienced the revolution in newsrooms, such as the rise of the 24/7 news cycle, online journalism, blogs, social networks, podcasts, webcasts and citizen journalism. Social media, notably Facebook and Twitter, have provided a wide platform to democratic voices against the decades old totalitarian and repressive regimes. However, these developments have not yet opened the way to greater respect for basic freedoms because new threats to freedom of expression keep emerging in the digital news environment. Moreover, the challenges of press freedom in Nepal has not been diminished in the period of past one year. Some of the key challenges of press freedom in our context are as follows:

Security of journalists

Nepal ranks 118th position in the international press freedom index by Reporters’ Without Borders’ stepping down 12 places than previous year. There have been reports of threats, misbehavior, manhandling, physical attacks, detention, harassment and incidents of censorship recorded at different levels during the period of one year. In addition, different interest groups including persons of authority, leaders of political parties, and cadres of armed groups targeted journalists, seized equipments and vandalised their vehicles as an expression of their resentment. However, the perpetrators were rarely brought to justice system since they had strong political back up. This trend rapidly promoted self-censorship among journalists; as a result issues of public importance were seldom reported. Recurring threats, interference in editorial independence, physical attack and blackmailing tactic pushed the country’s press freedom scenario into a deep vulnerability.

Protection of news source

It is one of the basic conditions for press freedom. Many countries have clearly mentioned this provision in their legal documents including the constitution. Journalists in Nepal, however, are compelled to divulge the information source during the process of administrative justice or court proceedings. Death threats and other forms of systematic harassment also force them to reveal the sources of information, which is, by profession, every journalist has to keep confidential. Even though, this provision is evidently articulated in the code of conduct for journalists, Nepal has not developed a comprehensive legal framework till date so remains cause of threat to press freedom. Owing to this, the vulnerability of press freedom remained manifested during the period.

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Second Amendment rally at Capitol brings out gun owners, veterans

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Apr 232013

The latest rally in support of the Second Amendment, according to some state representatives, may be the most important.

Hundreds from all over Pennsylvania gathered at the steps of the Capitol Tuesday morning in support of gun rights, just one week after the U.S. Senate rejected several gun control proposals.

Pa. is an open carry state as you know, so why do we need the governments permission to put a coat over our weapon? questioned Pa. State Representative Rick Saccone.

The message is clear, this is the new frontline, the battle over the Second Amendment, commented U.S. Army Veteran and Captain Sean Parnell.

More than 500 stood on the Capitol steps, looking as ready as ever to wage that battle.

It’s people like this that guarantee our safety, it’s the not the guys in there but we need their help, we need everybody’s help, explained Kevin Kieffer, referencing lawmakers.

Coming under fire was the argument from the other side that more gun control makes our society safer.

An argument that doesn’t sit well with former Army Captain Sean Parnell.

Some say that in the press, some say that in the halls of Congress, and some teachers actually make 4th graders write I am willing to give up my rights to make others safer, explained Parnell.

Parnell continued to evoke emotion from the crowd of onlookers urging them to take a stand.

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Second Amendment rally at Capitol brings out gun owners, veterans

Cedar Valley Mugshots Facebook Page: Protected under first amendment or cyberbullying?

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Mar 302013

BLACK HAWK COUNTY (KWWL) –

It’s a Facebook page that highlights mug shots of alleged criminals, and it has a lot of people talking.

People who have researched cyberbullying believe the “Cedar Valley Mugshots” Facebook page opens up a public venue for bullying.

“There’s a lot of positive ways that Facebook has brought us all together, but it also has created a venue for people to spread very damaging messages about others in a very public venue,” said Annette Lynch, director at the Center for Violence Prevention at the University of Northern Iowa.

Lynch has studied the impact cyberbullying has on people and believes everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.

“If you begin to have kind of bullying happening on this site, other people come in and sort of follow it up, and you can kind of feel that on the web site,” she said.

“Once someone made a comment, somebody else made a comment and that momentum is very hard to slow down once the site starts going in that direction,” Lynch added.

While those who have studied cyberbullying believe the comments on the “Cedar Valley Mugshots” Facebook page are damaging, the Waterloo Police Department sees it as a good example of people exercising their first amendment rights.

“That’s open government at their finest,” said Director of Safety Services for the City of Waterloo Dan Trelka.

“People are obtaining these mugshots because they are open record, open policy, and they’re just utilizing them to put them on a web site. And that’s also a good example of their first amendment rights,” Trelka added.

Werner Enterprises Operation Freedom Truck Wins Technology Award

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Mar 292013

OMAHA, Neb.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–

Werner Enterprises (WERN) Operation Freedom truck received the Most Technologically Advanced Cab award at the Mid-America Trucking Show March 21-23 in Louisville, Ky. The military themed Operation Freedom truck was one of 79 trucks in the competition and won the award due to its advanced technological equipment.

At Werner, we are proud to be known as a technological leader. Its important that we continue to push the envelope, testing new products and strategies, so that our drivers are equipped with the best technologies available, stated Steve Phillips, senior vice president of operations for Werner Enterprises. The investments we make in our fleet are consistent with our dedication to the safety of our drivers and the safety of the motoring public.

The award-winning truck is equipped with the Qualcomm MCP200 mobile information system which provides mobile communication for production and safety items including hours of service. In addition, the truck also has a safety system called Mobileye. This is a passive safety system that uses a camera to detect lane markings, speed signs, vehicles and pedestrians and provides the driver with audible and visual warning alerts.

Professional driver and Army veteran David Conkling drives the Operation Freedom truck to deliver loads to customers as well as to truck shows, recruiting events and specific veteran ceremonies. The Operation Freedom truck was unveiled last month at the Companys global headquarters in Omaha, Neb., to bring awareness to Werners industry-leading military apprenticeship program.

Werner Enterprises, Inc. was founded in 1956 and is a premier transportation and logistics company, with coverage throughout North America, Asia, Europe, South America, Africa and Australia. Werner maintains its global headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska and maintains offices in the United States, Canada, Mexico, China and Australia. Werner is among the five largest truckload carriers in the United States, with a diversified portfolio of transportation services that includes dedicated van, temperature-controlled and flatbed; medium-to-long-haul, regional and local van; and expedited services. Werner’s Value Added Services portfolio includes freight management, truck brokerage, intermodal, and international services. International services are provided through Werners domestic and global subsidiary companies and include ocean, air and ground transportation; freight forwarding; and customs brokerage.

Werner Enterprises, Inc.s common stock trades on The NASDAQ Global Select MarketSM under the symbol WERN. For further information about Werner, visit the Companys website at www.werner.com.

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Werner Enterprises Operation Freedom Truck Wins Technology Award

Intarcia Enrolls First Patients in " FREEDOM " Global Phase 3 Program for ITCA 650 in Type 2 Diabetes

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Mar 232013

BOSTON, March 21, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — Intarcia Therapeutics, Inc. announced today the enrollment of the first patients in FREEDOM-1, the first of four planned Phase 3 clinical trials studying the safety and efficacy of ITCA 650 (continuous subcutaneous delivery of exenatide) for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Intarcia is conducting the FREEDOM clinical program with strategic partner Quintiles, Inc., the world’s leading clinical research organization, who will be responsible for the global implementation of all four trials. This collaboration, along with strategic input from a world-class group of renowned diabetes experts, is designed to achieve the highest standards of quality, safety and operational excellence.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20050301/SFTU126LOGO)

The FREEDOM clinical trial program aims to demonstrate that optimizing GLP-1 therapy with once- or twice-yearly dosing of ITCA 650 results in effective, well tolerated glycemic control that virtually ensures longer-term compliance a transformational approach to controlling T2D that aims to free patients from the frequent self-injections that all too often result in poor therapeutic compliance and control. The FREEDOM-1 study is a placebo-controlled, double-blind study involving T2D patients whose HbA1c is not controlled on zero to three oral anti-diabetes drugs and whose HbA1c measures between 7.5% and 10.0%. The 450 patients will be randomized into three groups in a 1:1:1 ratio, evaluating ITCA 650 40 mcg/d and ITCA 650 60 mcg/d versus placebo. Subjects in the active arms will be treated with 3-month devices for the first 13 weeks that deliver an initial dose of 20 mcg/d, and then treated with 6-month ITCA 650 at doses of 40 or 60 mcg/d. The primary endpoint will be change in HbA1c at 9 months; secondary endpoints include changes in weight, FPG, PPG, tolerability, and other measures of safety and efficacy.

Michelle Baron, MD, FACE, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Intarcia, commented on the initiation of the FREEDOM Phase 3 program: “We named our program ‘FREEDOM’ in recognition of the burden that patients with type 2 diabetes face every day of their lives, and our sincere hope that ITCA 650 will alleviate some of that burden by achieving glucose control in a manner that optimizes patient adherence to therapy. It is well documented that sub-optimal adherence to medication results in poor outcomes and disproportionately higher medical costs. Our goal is to demonstrate that ITCA 650 can successfully deliver up to a full year of treatment from a single placement of the mini-pump a potential breakthrough in addressing a huge unmet need in this chronic disease. We expect these studies to support regulatory submissions in both the U.S. and the EU, and anticipate the first clinical results in the second half of 2014.”

“Our vision is to unleash a game-changing type 2 diabetes treatment that is so innovative and disruptive that it could truly reshape the standard of care and enable far better outcomes for the many patients suffering from this devastating disease,” said Kurt Graves, Chairman, President and CEO of Intarcia. “Years of innovation and tenacity have paved the way for the first potential once-yearly type 2 diabetes medicine and the start of the FREEDOM program. We firmly believe that a once-yearly GLP-1 therapy that virtually ensures long-term compliance can do extremely well in any real-world outcomes comparative trials and in the payor-driven and outcomes-focused healthcare environment of the future. As a Company committed to delivering superior outcomes for patients, physicians, and payors, the enrollment of the first patient in our FREEDOM clinical series is very exciting and gratifying milestone for us.”

Concurrent with FREEDOM-1, Intarcia will also be conducting an open-label study, called FREEDOM-1 HBL (high baseline), in patients who meet all eligibility criteria for FREEDOM-1, but whose baseline HbA1c is greater than 10%. All patients in this study will be treated with ITCA 650 20 mcg/d for the first 3 months and with ITCA 650 60 mcg/d for the next 6 months.

About the FREEDOM Program

The FREEDOM program is designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ITCA 650 (continuous subcutaneous delivery of exenatide) for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Intarcia expects to enroll greater than 4,000 patients at more than 500 clinical trial sites in more than 30 countries. The clinical studies will cover a broad range of patients whose diabetes is not controlled by oral anti-diabetes medications including metformin and metformin-based combinations. FREEDOM-1 is a U.S.-only, placebo-controlled, double-blind study comparing ITCA 650 doses of 40 mcg/d and 60 mcg/d to placebo; the FREEDOM-2 study will be a 500-patient, global, active-comparator controlled, double-blind, double-dummy study in patients on metformin only, comparing ITCA 650 20 mcg/d for 13 weeks plus ITCA 650 60 mcg/d for 39 weeks to patients taking sitagliptin (Januvia, Merck); FREEDOM-CVO is a global, placebo-controlled cardiovascular outcomes study that will examine the safety of ITCA 650 at 60 mcg/d vs. placebo in approximately 3,000 patients on a variety of approved anti-diabetes therapies.

About ITCA 650

ITCA 650 (continuous subcutaneous delivery of exenatide) is being developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. The investigational therapy employs Intarcia’s proprietary technology platform involving a matchstick-size, miniature osmotic pump that is inserted subcutaneously to provide continuous and consistent drug therapy, and the company’s proprietary formulation technology, which maintains stability of therapeutic proteins and peptides at human body temperatures for extended periods of time.

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Intarcia Enrolls First Patients in " FREEDOM " Global Phase 3 Program for ITCA 650 in Type 2 Diabetes

Freedom Treatment Center Offers New Aftercare in Addiction Treatment

Freedom Comments Off

Mar 212013

Freedom Treatment Center is a Southern Michigan drug and alcohol addiction recovery facility with personalized programs to help people achieve and maintain sobriety. Freedom Treatment Center knows a crucial point for those in recovery is what happens after people leave the facility and stresses the importance of aftercare in addiction treatment.

Albion, MI (PRWEB) March 21, 2013

We believe aftercare is as important as the initial addiction treatment, said Freedom Treatment Center representative Brian Kuehne. We want to make sure that each student at Freedom Treatment Center remains sober and committed to their new lifestyle after they exit our program.

An effective aftercare program will include three areas that need to be addressed to achieve success. Students must be able to successfully face the substance, have a concrete plan of action and have a support network made up of family and friends. Freedom Treatment Center helps to ensure those three areas are addressed before students even leave the facility.

Successfully facing the substance comes from being exposed to the threat, while still in the safety of the facility, and learning to diminish its power. A concrete plan of action, which can be established with the help of a counselor, sets up clear-cut goals and steps on achieving those goals. An outside support network of family and friends helps by providing a listening ear, a safe environment and other support those in recovery may especially need during those first tentative weeks after leaving a treatment facility.

The window of greatest vulnerability for relapse after treatment is the first 30 to 90 days following discharge, according to The Addiction Project, a series of HBO productions created in conjunction with the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The Addiction Project backs up Freedom Treatment Center’s belief that an aftercare program is an essential element in any recovery program.

Located in a semi-residential pocket of Southern Michigan, Freedom Treatment Center provides the soothing and safe environment and assistance so vital for helping people overcome drug and alcohol addiction. Treatment begins with a natural detoxification and continues with counseling, education and lifestyle changes that help ensure an ongoing and successful recovery.

Nick Thiel Freedom Drug Rehab (877) 210-5311 Email Information

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Freedom -loving motorcyclists renew fight against NC helmet law

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Mar 132013

RALEIGH Motorcyclists who love the wind in their hair are pushing again for the freedom to ride without safety helmets in North Carolina, and they found support Tuesday from members of a state House committee.

North Carolina is one of 19 states where safety helmets are mandatory for all motorcyclists. Studies credit helmets with reducing deaths and serious brain injury in crashes, and a recent survey by the Governors Highway Safety Program found that 78 percent of motorcycle riders support the state law.

But opponents have tried to weaken or repeal the helmet rule in nearly every legislative session since the mid-1990s. This year their cause is led by a motorcycle-riding Republican from Gaston County.

Rep. John Torbett of Stanley enjoys the chance to ride across the state line into South Carolina, where helmets are required only for bikers 20 and younger. He parks his motorcycle and pulls off his full-face helmet.

Thats my choice, Torbett said Tuesday at a House Transportation Committee meeting. Thats what I choose to do. South Carolina provides that opportunity.

Torbetts bill would require helmets only for the youngest riders. He proposed to let motorcyclists ride bareheaded when they turned 18, but he accepted a committee amendment that would match the South Carolina standard: helmets mandatory until age 21.

Personal freedom is the chief argument for opponents of the helmet law.

Torbett warned legislators that they would hear arguments about lives saved and insurance costs reduced by helmets, but the only safety statistics considered by the committee Tuesday came from Torbett himself.

Using data he attributed to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Torbett distributed a chart that depicted slightly higher death rates for motorcyclists in states with mandatory helmet laws, when compared with those in other states. That was welcome news for a couple of committee members who wanted to support his proposal for relaxed regulation.

I agree with the bill sponsor on the freedom aspects, said Rep. Frank Iler, a Republican from Oak Island, the committee co-chairman. I had some safety concerns, but, apparently statistically, that may not be a problem.

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Freedom -loving motorcyclists renew fight against NC helmet law

Ron Paul On The 2nd Amendment In 1989 - Video

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Mar 062013

Ron Paul On The 2nd Amendment In 1989
A very young former Congressman Ron Paul discusses guns in this rare video from 1989, recently released by the Free to Choose Network. On Tuesday, the Free to Choose Network, a non-profit political organization dedicated to promoting the principles of personal and economic freedom, released a video on their YouTube channel of a young former Congressman Ron Paul talking about guns in 1989. In the video, Paul says that “no one should tell you you can't own a gun because it might be misused.” He goes on to make the argument that any misuse of an object, including a gun, should be dealt with in the courts. Paul is also shown holding a gun in the video while he references Thomas Jefferson and his quotes on inalienable rights. He closes out the video talking about Libertarianism and says “we have a right to own anything we want, including guns, as long as we harm no other person.” He also says “if we sacrifice our liberty in the pursuit of safety, we'll lose our safety and our liberty.” Although this particular video is rare, Ron Paul has never been shy to speak his views on guns. In another video, Paul discusses the 2nd amendment being put into place to protect against abusive government and his views that had a pilot been carrying a pistol on 9/11, the hijackers would have been discouraged or stopped from the hijacking and attacks. He also dedicated an entire chapter to the issue in his book Liberty Defined.

By: Johannes Fiftyeight

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Ron Paul On The 2nd Amendment In 1989 – Video

Supreme Court ruling upholds limits on free speech in case involving anti-gay proselytizer

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Feb 282013

Canadas highest court has upheld the nations hate-speech laws as a reasonable limit on freedom of expression.

In a 6-0 decision, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that some flyers distributed by Bill Whatcott, a resident of Weyburn, Sask., promoted hatred against gays and lesbians a decision that reaffirms existing laws as a debate rages over the right to free speech and the rights of minorities to be free of discrimination and hatred.

But the court also reined in the ruling that was under appeal. The Saskatchewan Human Rights Tribunal had ordered Mr. Whatcott to pay $17,500 to people who complained about four flyers he distributed in the province in 2001 and 2002 and banned him from distributing similar material. It declared that the first two flyers promoted hatred but that the remaining two did not rise to that level, although it still deemed them offensive.

The ruling follows high-profile controversies in recent years over complaints to human-rights tribunals, which critics call a chill on free speech. Some argue that people with views society finds repugnant should be ignored, or countered through free debate, not prosecuted. Groups opposing racism and homophobia say hate speech does real harm to vulnerable groups.

Civil liberties groups and Mr. Whatcotts lawyer had also asked the court to strike down a key ruling from 1990 that legally defined hatred and affirmed the right of provincial human-rights tribunals to penalize people for hate speech, a move that would likely have forced tribunals in Saskatchewan, Alberta and B.C. and for the federal government to stop policing hate speech. The Supreme Court declined to do so.

The tribunals conclusions with respect to the first two flyers were reasonable. Passages of these flyers combine many of the hallmarks of hatred identified in the case law, the court said in its ruling. The expression portrays the targeted group as a menace that threatens the safety and well-being of others, makes reference to respected sources in an effort to lend credibility to the negative generalizations, and uses vilifying and derogatory representations to create a tone of hatred.

The Supreme Court also ruled that vague wording in Saskatchewans hate law, which bans speech that ridicules, belittles or otherwise affronts the dignity of, was constitutionally invalid. It said that the provinces law should apply only to the Supreme Courts previous definition of hate: strong and deep-felt emotions of detestation, calumny and vilification. This echoes previous Saskatchewan court rulings.

The court, however, decided to strike calumny from its definition, saying it was unnecessary because hate speech need not be false, and that the word is rare in everyday vocabulary.

Reached at his home in Weyburn on Wednesday, Mr. Whatcott, a born-again Christian who says he found religion after an early adulthood of drugs, crime and homosexuality, vowed to produce more pamphlets taking issue with the Supreme Courts ruling and spreading his other views. And he offered no apology for the pamphlets at the centre of the case, one of which warned that homosexuals were aiming to spread filth in public schools.

Certainly in the court of heaven, which is where I am looking now, that stands, he said. The fact that this court has said that its illegal to say that stuff, theyre wrong.

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Supreme Court ruling upholds limits on free speech in case involving anti-gay proselytizer

Kellogg's Beach Safety CSA with Ironman Ky Hurst - Video

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Feb 122013

Kellogg's Beach Safety CSA with Ironman Ky Hurst
Every year, almost 100 people drown at our beaches. The truth is that even though our surf ifesavers and lifeguards are trained professionals and are constantly vigilant in protecting the safety of beachgoers, swimming outside the red and yellow flags makes their job tougher. Star Ironman Ky Hurst helps to spread the message, if we can't see you, we can't save you. Be safe and always swim between the red and yellow flags.

By: slsaofficial

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Kellogg’s Beach Safety CSA with Ironman Ky Hurst – Video

Freedom Treatment Center Offers Sauna Detox For Drug Rehab

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Feb 102013

Freedom Treatment Center is a Southern Michigan drug and alcohol addiction facility that offers a variety of all-natural treatments for detoxification and recovery. The center recently introduced its sauna detox for drug rehab, a new program that has already generated much interest and many benefits.

Albion, MI (PRWEB) February 10, 2013

More and more people are becoming interested in all-natural remedies for optimum health, especially those who are seeking a new, improved life of recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, said Freedom Treatment Center Executive Director John Walser. Our sauna detox has already been hugely successful with numerous patients who were seeking an effective and natural way to purge years worth of drugs, alcohol and other poisons from their bodies.

The centers sauna detox program incorporates a daily sauna session into a comprehensive plan that also includes exercise, vitamins and additional supplements. The overall goal is to flush out toxins stored in fat tissues and restore the metabolic balance so crucial to optimum health and well-being.

Each of these program components have biologic roles that support healing, the Townsend Letter periodical reports. The integrity of physiological systems including those associated with detoxification, cellular repair, immune processes, and neural and endocrine function depends upon nutritional and vitamin status.

Studies and case reports supporting the safety and benefits of sauna detoxification have been published in numerous journals, including the American Journal of the Medical Sciences, Ambio: A Journal of the Human Environment and Archives of Environmental Health: An International Journal. These studies and reports showed sauna detoxifications effectiveness for helping to eliminate a wide range of stored toxins, inclusive of pesticides, dioxins, PBBs, PCBs and, of course, various drugs.

The evidence that shows our sauna detox works is very good, said Freedom Treatment Center Senior Director Dominick Assante, but the results we see in our patients is even better. Those who have been through our sauna detox feel better, look better and have increased energy levels and a fresh state of mind that greatly contribute to creating and sustaining their new way of life.

Nick Thiel Freedom Drug Rehab 1 (866) 738-9348 Email Information

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Freedom Treatment Center Offers Sauna Detox For Drug Rehab

Cruise ship accident: 'Question mark over lifeboat safety' - Video

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Feb 102013

Cruise ship accident: 'Question mark over lifeboat safety'
Five crew members have died after a lifeboat they were in fell from a cruise ship docked in the port of Santa Cruz de la Palma in the Canary Islands. The accident happened on the Majesty, operated by UK-based Thomson Cruises, during a routine safety drill. Those killed include three Indonesians, a Filipino and a Ghanaian. Three people were also hurt as the boat reportedly fell more than 20m (65ft) into the sea. Simon Calder is the travel editor of the Independent newspaper. He said the incident raises further safety concerns.

By: latestvidz4

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Cruise ship accident: ‘Question mark over lifeboat safety’ – Video

Safety as freedom

Freedom Comments Off

Feb 062013

The Delhi gang-rape of December 2012 brought to the streets the deep and growing concern about violence against women and the demand for women’s safety. The movement is the voice of women reclaiming their right to safety and freedom, through resistance to all forms of patriarchal power and celebration of women’s peaceful power and energy.

Commodification, appropriation and control over women’s bodies and the resources of the earth are one aspect of the threat to safety. Imposition of hazardous technologies that we do not need is another aspect.

Safety has emerged as an overpowering concern – safety of women and children, tribals, farmers and rural communities, safety from nuclear hazard, and environmental as well as health hazards of GMOs. Across India, protests and movements are also growing about the safety of people’s resources and wealth – their land, their forests, their rivers, their property – in the context of the violent resource grab that is the basis of the new “growth” economy.

There is a pattern in this continuum of violence and threats to life and safety, just as there is a pattern in the continuum of the struggles for the defence of life, safety and freedom. The exponential rise in concern for safety – reflected in the explosion of people’s protests to stop violence against women, tribals, fishermen, peasants, the urban and rural poor and the violence against environment and life on earth – is a direct consequence of the dominant culture of greed and commodification.

Sadly, this culture is shrouded in the garb of neo-liberal paradigms of economics in which there is no life, no values, no ethics, no community, no society, no people, no justice, no place for equality, dignity and people’s rights, no place for freedom and democracy, just money and markets.

These values do not stay insulated in a silo called “the economy”. Through osmosis they become the dominant values of a society, shaping the culture (or, should we say, anti-culture?).

Nuclear safety

As 2012 came to a close and 2013 dawned, hundreds of people protesting the nuclear power plant at Koodankulam and demanding nuclear safety sang and danced together at the Idinthakarai coast, adjacent to the nuclear plant. The New Year celebrations breathed new life into the anti-nuclear struggle. The beach reverberated with the spirit of resistance, assertion, freedom and democracy.

The movement for nuclear safety is a movement for freedom – we do not need nuclear energy when the sun and wind are so generous; we do not need GMOs when biodiversity and ecological agriculture produces more, safer and better food.

For two years in a row, at his address to the Indian Science Congress, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has tried to criminalise the citizen’s movements for nuclear safety and biosafety. But his is not a lone voice. He is an echo of the structured money-making system that wants no breaks in its money-making, including the break that is necessary for ensuring safety. That is why he called for a “structured” debate onnuclear energy and GMOs, not a democratic debate.

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Safety as freedom

Bubba-MJ jury foreman says verdict centered on First Amendment

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Feb 032013

By Eric Deggans, Times TV/Media Critic Eric DeggansTampa Bay Times In Print: Saturday, February 2, 2013

As controversy swirled and media coverage exploded following the court verdict this week that shock jock Bubba the Love Sponge Clem did not defame rival radio star Todd “MJ” Schnitt, jury forewoman Kristy Craig feared a lesson was being lost.

So she typed up an email to the Tampa Bay Times, eventually agreeing to become the first juror from the trial to speak on the record, stressing that a verdict for Clem did not equal an endorsement of the material on his show.

“I hated this case,” wrote Craig, 36, of Tampa. ” ‘Hate’ is not a word used often in my vocabulary, but I hated it. I hate the word ‘whore.’ I did not count (though, sitting through over 60 hours of testimony, I had plenty of time to), but I assume I heard the word ‘whore’ upwards of a hundred times. As a woman, I hate what it implies.”

Her email continued: “(But) I love that I can hate the antics of Bubba the Love Sponge. I love that he can say all that sexist, worthless drivel to 400,000 radio listeners every day. I love that I can change the station.”

For Craig, the two-week trial’s verdict was centered on upholding the First Amendment, giving Clem the freedom to say some pretty awful things about his radio rival and his rival’s wife. And anyone who objects can change the station.

But she was most disturbed by the material aired on both Schnitt’s and Clem’s shows that was presented to the jury, concerned that some might view the court verdict as a validation of the content on one program over another.

“I’m not a fan, to be honest, of either party,” she said in a telephone interview. “Upholding the First Amendment doesn’t mean we support Bubba the Love Sponge or his opinions in his show. For me, as a woman, it was important to make that clear.”

Schnitt filed his lawsuit against Clem back in 2008, saying his rival made “false, highly offensive and defamatory statements” about him and his wife, Michelle, as competition heated up between the two on morning radio.

During the trial, Schnitt testified that fans of Clem’s show, known as the Bubba Army, confronted him in public and raised fears for his safety. He also criticized Clem for calling his wife a whore, leading Clem’s attorneys to play audio of Schnitt using similar terms about her on his radio show.

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Bubba-MJ jury foreman says verdict centered on First Amendment

Bubba-MJ jury forewoman says verdict centered on First Amendment

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Feb 022013

By Eric Deggans, Times TV/Media Critic Eric DeggansTampa Bay Times In Print: Saturday, February 2, 2013

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Bubba-MJ jury forewoman says verdict centered on First Amendment

Liberty Provides Update

Liberty Comments Off

Jan 252013

TSX: LBE

TORONTO , Jan. 23, 2013 /CNW/ – Liberty Mines Inc. (LBE:TSX) (“Liberty” or the “Company”) today announced that it has identified the presence of chrysotile in its ore body at its McWatters Mine.

As announced previously, McWatters Mine, which was intermittently operated from 2009-2012, is currently in care and maintenance mode following the Company’s decision to suspend operations due to low spot prices for nickel. As chrysotile, a form of asbestos, is a designated substance under Ontario Health and Safety Regulation, the Company is investigating these matters further and is taking all required measures.

The Company expects to conduct additional testing and further independent analysis to determine the impact on the economic feasibility of restarting mine operations at the McWatters Mine having regard to this information.

The Company is also reviewing conditions at its former operating Redstone Mine, its Hart project and its Mill.

Liberty expects to provide additional updates as material information becomes available.

About Liberty Mines Inc. Liberty Mines Inc. is focused on the exploration, development and production of nickel, copper, cobalt and platinum group metals from its properties in Ontario, Canada . It owns a nickel concentrator near Timmins, Ontario.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. This News Release includes certain “forward looking statements”. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release, without limitation, statements regarding future plans and objectives of Liberty, are forward looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Liberty’s expectations are: exploration risks; commodity prices; regulatory approvals; receipt of mining permits and leases; and assumed startup and operating costs detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by Liberty with securities regulators. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any such statement or reflect new information or the occurrence of future events or circumstances, except where required by securities regulations. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

SOURCE: Liberty Mines Inc.

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Liberty Provides Update

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Safety as freedom

Bubba-MJ jury foreman says verdict centered on First Amendment

Bubba-MJ jury forewoman says verdict centered on First Amendment

Liberty Provides Update

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