WE ARE INNOCENT

Thursday, 3 February 2011

America's top 20 unhappiest cities

By Bloomberg Businessweek

The other kind of depressionSome U.S. cities were depressed even before the economy went on life support. These were the cities that saw the highest depression and suicide rates even while the Dow Jones was climbing to 14,000 and Countrywide Financial was considered a respected mortgage lender. Why? Blame a variety of reasons, from divorce and crime to lousy weather and job loss. While that's bad enough, it will be important to see how these rankings change from this year to next. As the rest of the country struggles with the financial crisis, it is possible that some of these cities may soon become even unhappier.

Portland, Ore. © Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

1. Portland, Ore.

Overall rank: 1

Depression rank: 1

Suicide rank: 12

Crime (property and violent) rank: 24

Divorce rate rank: 4

Cloudy days: 222

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 7.8%

St. Louis © Michael S. Lewis/Corbis

2. St. Louis

Overall rank: 2

Depression rank: 13

Suicide rank: 22

Crime (property and violent) rank: 1

Divorce rate rank: 18

Cloudy days: 164

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 8.2%

New Orleans © Jim Watson/AFP/Getty Images

3. New Orleans

Overall rank: 3

Depression rank: 25

Suicide rank: 43

Crime (property and violent) rank: 5

Divorce rate rank: 26

Cloudy days: 146

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 7.9%

Detroit © Spencer Platt/Getty Images

4. Detroit

Overall rank: 4

Depression rank: 46

Suicide rank: 50

Crime (property and violent) rank: 3

Divorce rate rank: 15

Cloudy days: 185

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 18.6%

Cleveland © Jason Nelson/Getty Images

5. Cleveland

Overall rank: 5

Depression rank: 17

Suicide rank: 27

Crime (property and violent) rank: 11

Divorce rate rank: 2

Cloudy days: 202

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 8.8%

Jacksonville, Fla. © Brian Bahr/Getty Images

6. Jacksonville, Fla.

Overall rank: 6

Depression rank: 2

Suicide rank: 9

Crime (property and violent) rank: 23

Divorce rate rank: 7

Cloudy days: 144

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 7.6%

Las Vegas © David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images

7. Las Vegas

Overall rank: 7

Depression rank: 42

Suicide rank: 1

Crime (property and violent) rank: 9

Divorce rate rank: 6

Cloudy days: 73

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 9%

Nashville-Davidson, Tenn. © Rusty Russell/Getty Images

8. Nashville-Davidson, Tenn.

Overall rank: 8

Depression rank: 4

Suicide rank: 26

Crime (property and violent) rank: 8

Divorce rate rank: 8

Cloudy days: 156

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 6%

Cincinatti © Scott Olson/Getty Images

9. Cincinnati

Overall rank: 9

Depression rank: 7

Suicide rank: 20

Crime (property and violent) rank: 34

Divorce rate rank: 19

Cloudy days: 186

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 6.4%

Atlanta © Barry Williams/Getty Images

10. Atlanta

Overall rank: 10

Depression rank: 29

Suicide rank: 18

Crime (property and violent) rank: 2

Divorce rate rank: 28

Cloudy days: 149

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 7.7%

Darren Hauck/Getty Images

11. Milwaukee, Wis.

Overall rank: 11

Depression rank: 19

Suicide rank: 16

Crime (property and violent) rank: 17

Divorce rate rank: 30

Cloudy days: 175

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 7.9%

David Paul Morris/Getty Images

12. Sacramento, Calif.

Overall rank: 12

Depression rank: 20

Suicide rank: 4

Crime (property and violent) rank: 18

Divorce rate rank: 20

Cloudy days: 100

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 10.2%

Jamie Squire/Getty Images

13. Kansas City, Mo.

Overall rank: 13

Depression rank: 23

Suicide rank: 29

Crime (property and violent) rank: 10

Divorce rate rank: 12

Cloudy days: 149

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 8.7%

Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

14. Pittsburgh, Pa.

Overall rank: 14

Depression rank: 10

Suicide rank: 10

Crime (property and violent) rank: 24

Divorce rate rank: 45

Cloudy days: 203

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 5.6%

Carlo Allegri/Getty Images

15. Memphis, Tenn.

Overall rank: 15

Depression rank: 35

Suicide rank: 45

Crime (property and violent) rank: 4

Divorce rate rank: 21

Cloudy days: 151

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 8.4%

Donald Miralle/Getty Images

16. Indianapolis city, Ind.

Overall rank: 16

Depression rank: 12

Suicide rank: 23

Crime (property and violent) rank: 28

Divorce rate rank: 11

Cloudy days: 179

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 7.2%

Matthew Stockman/Getty Images

17. Louisville, Ky.

Overall rank: 17

Depression rank: 8

Suicide rank: 24

Crime (property and violent) rank: 29

Divorce rate rank: 1

Cloudy days: 73

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 7.5%

Brian Bahr /Allsport

18. Tucson, Ariz.

Overall rank: 18

Depression rank: 24

Suicide rank: 3

Crime (property and violent) rank: 27

Divorce rate rank: 10

Cloudy days: 81

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 6.9%

Doug Pensinger/Getty Images

19. Minneapolis, Minn.

Overall rank: 19

Depression rank: 9

Suicide rank: 44

Crime (property and violent) rank: 10

Divorce rate rank: 33

Cloudy days: 169

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 10.7%

GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP/Getty Images

20. Seattle, Wash.

Overall rank: 20

Depression rank: 6

Suicide rank: 27

Crime (property and violent) rank: 25

Divorce rate rank: 24

Cloudy days: 201

Unemployment rate (December 2008): 11.5%

Praying for the health of anti-apartheid hero Nelson Mandela

The news that the increasingly frail Madiba - the clan name by which the 92-year-old Nobel peace prize winner is affectionately known - remained under medical supervision has put South Africa on edge over his health. Current President Jacob Zuma called for calm as the nation awaited updates on Mandela's condition amid a virtual news blackout since he was admitted for "routine" tests on Wednesday. "President Mandela is comfortable and is well looked after by a good team of medical specialists," Zuma said in a statement from Davos, where he is attending the World Economic Forum. "We urge the media to afford him the dignity and respect that he is entitled to as the country's founding democratic president, as a national hero and also as a citizen of the republic."

The ruling African National Congress party had also earlier called for calm. "We call on all South Africans to remain calm regarding the hospitalisation of Madiba and not press any panic buttons, as there is no reason for that whatsoever," ANC spokesman Jackson Mthembu said. "If there is any change in the hospitalisation of Madiba, including his discharge from hospital, (it) will be communicated." The Nelson Mandela Foundation said on Wednesday that Mandela was in Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg for tests but that his health was not in jeopardy. "He is in no danger and is in good spirits," said a statement from the foundation, which Mandela established to continue his charitable work after withdrawing from public life in 2004. It has made no further comment.

The Star newspaper reported yesterday that Mandela had been seen by a lung specialist at the private hospital. "He has been admitted for investigation," the doctor, Michael Plit, told the newspaper. He declined to comment on Mandela's condition. Mandela's ex-wife Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, who separated from him in 1992, arrived at the hospital around late morning and left three hours later. She and Mandela have two daughters together and are often reunited at family events. Mandela's wife, Graca Machel, and other family members were seen at the hospital on Wednesday night. Machel's daughter Josina and Mandela's personal assistant, Zelda la Grange, were also at the hospital yesterday morning.

Other visitors included Mandla Mandela, Madiba's grandson and chief of the traditional council in the family's home village of Mvezo; Justice Minister Jeff Radebe, a prominent ANC leader; and Albertina Sisulu, widow of Mandela's fellow freedom fighter, Walter Sisulu. As media flocked to the hospital for news on Mandela's health, a tight security presence surrounded the building - with police checking all visitors' cars to make sure no journalists were hiding in the boot. At a school next door to the hospital, children had decorated a fence with colourful pictures of hands and hearts and messages of support. "We hope you'll get well soon," said one. "Madiba, we love you," said a sign in one of the school's windows.

Ntho Molena, a 16-year-old school pupil, said she and her colleagues were praying for Mandela to get well. "We feel it is very important to offer our support to the former president of South Africa because he brought major changes to us, the children. "We are entering the great reward he fought for when he was in prison," she said. "Hopefully he gets better very, very soon." Mandela spent 27 years in prison for his role in the fight against apartheid in South Africa, emerging in 1990 to lead the country's transition to democracy. As South Africa's first black president, he defied the threat of civil war to lead a process of reconciliation in a country long divided against itself. His public appearances have become increasingly rare since his retirement. His last such outing was at the closing ceremony of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in Johannesburg in July.

Wednesday, 2 February 2011

TOP 10 HONEYMOON DESTINATION IN THE WORLD

1. Paris, France

Paris is almost synonymous with romance, and there are many other destinations ideal for the cozy getaway or honeymoon. France is a wonderful country, which is why it is one of the world's most fascinating.

2. Rome, Italy

If you're visiting Rome for a honeymoon, Valentine's weekend or a surprise birthday trip, you may be searching for the most romantic restaurants, strolls and places to enjoy with someone special. Rome has scores of beautiful romantic lanes, restaurants and parks.

3. Venice, Italy

Venice (Venezia) is one of the most romantic places in Italy. Even though it's decaying and slowly sinking into the Adriatic Sea, it will capture your heart like no other city in the Europe. The romance of this ancient port city of canals, bridges and centuries old buildings will make your romantic Italian vacation unforgettable.

4. Bahamas

Altars made of sky. Aisles made of sand. Matches made in heaven. Sun and surf are mere backdrops to the perfect day you imagined when planning your destination wedding. Dream. Plan. Start your story in The Bahamas, and you'll finish with a perfect island honeymoon.

5. Florence, Italy

Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance and home to many of world's most famous paintings and statues. If you're visiting during a tour of Tuscany, take a few days to explore this bustling city's mind-boggling collection of artistic genius and stunning cathedrals.

6. Sydney, Australia

Adventure and Romance. Get your loved ones, friends or 'close family members' out and about and with a big fat smile on their face. Romance your partner, thrill your kids or maybe just have some fun with a friends.

7. London, England

London is home to countless historical and modern attractions, from the London Eye to the National Gallery and Tower of London. With free admission to many top attractions, there's no better place to soak up some culture. Take your pick from the most popular London attractions.

8. Tahiti

"We had a spectacular time!!!! We could not have asked for a better honeymoon. It was serene and beautiful and friendly and the food- you can't beat the French cuisine you find there. We felt like we were the only two people there and it was not a bad place to feel "stranded"." - Melissa and Mike Heinze, Manhatten Beach CA.

9. French, Riviera

The French Riviera is a land of abundance. The diversity of themed visits, the expanse of proposed stays, the eclectic range of activities on offer are made to satisfy all your desires. Sea, mountains, nature, art and culture, major events. There is something for everyone.

10. Fiji

Fiji is an exotic destination. It's the exhilaration of a dolphin arching high into the air beside your boat; the long gliding swoop of an orange dove through the rainforest; the smiles of excited children performing in unison to the beat of a hollow log drum. Where the Cloud Breaker, the incredible six-meter wave found offshore at Tavarua, draws surfers from around the world. Fiji is where people wear flowers tucked in their hair, not to impress visitors, but because they like to! It's wonderful place to go for honeymoon!

Quick Dialoque Laughter

Girlfriend: And are you sure you love me and no one else?

Boyfriend: Dead Sure! I checked the whole list again yesterday

Waiter: Would you like your coffee black?

Customer: What other colors do you have?

Manager: Sorry, but I can’t give u a job. I don’t need much help.

Job Applicant: That’s all right. In fact I’m just the right person in this case. You see, I won’t be of much help anyway!!

Dad: Son, what do u want for ur birthday?

Son: Not much dad, Just a radio with a sports car around it.

Diner: I can’t eat such a rotten chicken. Call the manager!

Waiter: It’s no use. He won’t eat it either.

Diner: You’ll drive me to my grave!

Waiter: Well, you don’t expect to walk there, do you?

Husband: U know, wife, our son got his brain from me.

Wife: I think he did, I’ve still got mine with me!

Man: Officer! There’s a bomb in my garden!

Officer: Don’t worry. If no one claims it within three days, you can keep it.

Father: Your teacher says she finds it impossible to teach you anything!

Son: That’s why I say she’s no good!

Model World by Olivio Barbieri

If your memory serves you right, and if you are frequent visitor of Mighty Optical Illusions, you will remember our previous post titled: “Model World by Olivio Barbieri“. This set of pictures was taken with same tehnique, that makes real-life pictures of Las Vegas and other big cities look like scaled model, or some kind of toy world. Open this article, and enjoy! You will find more photos from Olivio, Miklos Gaál… but also work from other authors as well!

GOING TO SEA

"I should like to be a sailor," said George Washington. "Then I could go to many strange lands and see many wonderful things. And, by and by, I might become the captain of a ship."

He was only fourteen years old.

His older brothers were quite willing that he should go to sea. They said that a bright boy like George would not long be a common sailor. He would soon become a captain and then perhaps a great admiral.

And so the matter was at last settled. George's brothers knew the master of a trading ship who was getting ready to sail to England. He agreed to take the boy with him and teach him how to be a good sailor.

George's mother was very sad. His uncle had written her a letter saying:

"Do not let him go to sea. If he begins as a common sailor, he will never be anything else."

But George had made up his mind to go. He was headstrong and determined. He would not listen to any one who tried to persuade him to stay at home. At last the day came for the ship to sail. It was waiting in the river. A boat was at the landing, ready to take him on board. The little chest that held his clothing had been carried down to the bank. George was in high glee at the thought of going.

"Good-by, mother," he said.

He stood on the doorstep and looked back into the house. He saw the kind faces of those whom he loved. He began to feel very sad.

"Good-by, my dear boy!"

George saw the tears in his mother's eyes. He saw them rolling down her cheeks. He knew that she did not wish him to go. He could not bear to see her grief.

He stood still for a moment, thinking. Then he turned quickly and said, "Mother, I have changed my mind. I will stay at home and do as you wish." Then he called to the black boy, who was waiting at the door, and said, "Tom, run down to the shore and tell them not to put the chest in the boat. Send word to the captain not to wait for me, for I have changed my mind. I am not going to sea."

Who has not heard of George Washington? It has been said of him that he was the "first in war, the first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen." He was our most famous president. He has been called the Father of his Country.

READ MORE

http://www.readbookonline.net

THE STORY OF A GREAT STORY

Two hundred years ago there lived in Scotland a young man whose name was Alexander Selkirk. He was quarrelsome and unruly. He was often making trouble among his neighbors.

For this reason many people were glad when he ran away from home and went to sea. "We hope that he will get what he deserves," they said.

He was big and strong and soon became a fine sailor. But he was still headstrong and ill-tempered; and he was often in trouble with the other sailors.

Once his ship was sailing in the great Pacific Ocean, It was four hundred miles from the coast of South America. Then something happened which Selkirk did not like. He became very disagreeable. He quarreled with the other sailors, and even with the captain.

"I would rather live alone on a desert island than be a sailor on this ship," he said.

"Very well," answered the captain. "We shall put you ashore on the first island that we see."

"Do so," said Selkirk. "You cannot please me better."

The very next day they came in sight of a little green island. There were groves of trees near the shore, and high hills beyond them.

"What is the name of this island?" asked Selkirk.

"Juan Fernandez," [Footnote: Juan Fernandez (pro. joo'an fer nan'dsz).] said the captain.

"Set me on shore and leave me there. Give me a few common tools and some food, and I will do well enough," said the sailor.

"It shall be done," answered the captain.

So they filled a small boat with the things that he would need the most--an ax, a hoe, a kettle, and some other things. They also put in some bread and meat and other food, enough for several weeks.

Then four of the sailors rowed him to the shore and left him there.

Alexander Selkirk was all alone on the island. He began to see how foolish he had been; he thought how terrible it would be to live there without one friend, without one person to whom he could speak.

He called loudly to the sailors and to the captain. "Oh, do not leave me here. Take me back, and I will give you no more trouble."

But they would not listen to him. The ship sailed away and was soon lost to sight.

Then Selkirk set to work to make the best of things. He built him a little hut for shelter at night and in stormy weather. He planted a small garden. There were pigs and goats on the island, and plenty of fish could be caught from the shore. So there was always plenty of food. Sometimes Selkirk saw ships sailing in the distance. He tried to make signals to them; he called as loudly as he could; but he was neither seen nor heard, and the ships came no nearer.

"If I ever have the good fortune to escape from this island," he said, "I will be kind and obliging to every one. I will try to make friends instead of enemies."

For four years and four months he lived alone on the island. Then, to his great joy, a ship came near and anchored in the little harbor.

He made himself known, and the captain willingly agreed to carry him back to his own country. When he reached Scotland everybody was eager to hear him tell of his adventures, and he soon found himself famous.

In England there was then living a man whose name was Daniel Defoe. [Footnote: De foe'.] He was a writer of books. He had written many stories which people at that time liked to read.

When Daniel Defoe heard how Selkirk had lived alone on the island of Juan Fernandez, he said to himself: "Here is something worth telling about. The story of Alexander Selkirk is very pleasing."

So he sat down and wrote a wonderful story, which he called "The Adventures of Robinson Crusoe."

Every boy has heard of Robinson Crusoe. Many boys and indeed many girls have read his story.

When only a child he liked to stand by the river and see the ships sailing past. He wondered where they had come from and where they were going. He talked with some of the sailors. They told him about the strange lands they had visited far over the sea. They told him about the wonderful things they had seen there. He was delighted.

"Oh, I wish I could be a sailor!" he said.

He could not think of anything else. He thought how grand it would be to sail and sail on the wide blue sea. He thought how pleasant it would be to visit strange countries and see strange peoples.

As he grew up, his father wished him to learn a trade.

"No, no, I am going to be a sailor; I am going to see the world" he said. His mother said to him: "A sailor's life is a hard life. There are great storms on the sea. Many ships are wrecked and the sailors are drowned." "I am not afraid" said Robinson Crusoe. "I am going to be a sailor and nothing else."

So, when he was eighteen years old, he ran away from his pleasant home and went to sea.

He soon found that his mother's words were true.

A sailor's life is indeed a hard life. There is no time to play. Every day there is much work to be done. Sometimes there is great danger.

Robinson Crusoe sailed first on one ship and then on another. He visited many lands and saw many wonderful things.

One day there was a great storm. The ship was driven about by the winds; it was wrecked. All the sailors were drowned but Robinson Crusoe.

He swam to an island that was not far away. It was a small island, and there was no one living on it. But there were birds in the woods and some wild goats on the hills.

For a long time Robinson Crusoe was all alone. He had only a dog and some cats to keep him company. Then he tamed a parrot and some goats.

He built a house of some sticks and vines. He sowed grain and baked bread. He made a boat for himself. He did a great many things. He was busy every day.

At last a ship happened to pass that way and Robinson was taken on board. He was glad to go back to England to see his home and his friends once more.

This is the story which Mr. Defoe wrote. Perhaps he would not have thought of it, had he not first heard the true story of Alexander Selkirk.

READ MORE

http://www.readbookonline.net/read/141/4115/