It will be news to few when we say that there is a veritable tsunami of youth interested in global health. In universities across the country, students are seeking out classes, organizations, and opportunities to learn, discuss, and act. Harvard is, of course, no exception.As Harvard Medical School (HMS) students, we often get emails about speaker events, attend student gatherings about global health, or talk with professors about their latest research. For both of us, it seems as if most of our free time (and then some) is spent negotiating how we can engage in these exciting opportunities. Like many of you, we not only care deeply about grave, unjust inequities in our world but want to build lives dedicated to addressing these complex issues.What if we were to tell you that, despite being inundated with the discourse of global health, we’ve still seen educational gaps? Perhaps we’re critical or hard to please; certainly we’re restless. The truth is that at HMS there is a preponderance of opportunities that focus separately on theory, practice, and discernment — three necessary areas in the development of global health professionals. Lectures educate us. Organizations and projects enable us to engage as students. And our impressive classmates and mentors empower to us consider our roles as physicians. All occupy different spheres and can sometimes fragment the experience.Enter, a new elective at HMS called “Clinical Topics in Global Health.” Having recently finished its second year, this class was a critical merger of these three areas that we thought necessary for budding physicians. Taught by Patrick Lee, a clinical instructor in medicine, and Brett Nelson, an assistant professor of pediatrics, the elective united a group of students diverse in both prior experience and stage of education. Our classmates ranged from fellow first-years to a third-year resident to an experienced clinical psychologist. As we were instructed on the first day, we were to be our own teachers and mentors, as well as colleagues — a lesson we quickly learned to appreciate.Over two months, we encountered a wide range of issues, such as models of health care delivery, mental health, primary care, oral health, and cancer. Each topic was explored through several lenses so we could understand the current context of the issue, relevant clinical skills, and the inevitable challenges of implementation. Far from simply discussing topics, the class was hands-on and entertaining. We dove into the first week by resuscitating plastic “infants” replicating acute respiratory distress. Later we proceeded to learning case management for HIV/TB patients, recognizing infectious parasites under a microscope, and performing ultrasounds on each other.Through these clinical applications, we constantly stretched our creativity as we considered how we could provide quality medical care with severely limited resources. Who knew a condom not only can prevent pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections, but when inflated with water can also stabilize a post-partum hemorrhage, buying a woman critical time to make it to a medical center?One of the most unusual facets of the class came in the final evening. We sat with a panel of global health professionals and were able to ask some of the most personally important questions, ones that we frequently ask each other and that lace our conversations about our futures. How do I engage in global health and yet have a family? How do I take care of myself? How can I balance my time between living overseas and in the United States? While there is no correct answer, discussions like this are important for the next generation of global health care professionals, filled with unguided uncertainty yet limitless potential.It would be preposterous to claim that we covered every clinically relevant issue that challenges humanity around the world. This class, however, came at a critical moment for some young doctors interested in global health. At a time when we are beginning the process of forming our professional lives, we come out of this class with a broadened ken and clearer conception of how we can be responsible and more effectively leverage our roles. For Divya, every day in rural Liberia this summer working on a women’s rights project is a constant reminder of the lectures on maternal mortality and innovation in resource poor settings. For John, working on an ethnography of managed care and skin cancer in Colombia has given him an arena in which to apply the classes on non-communicable diseases as well as begin to build a long-term engagement in the country.Amid the fertile landscape of global health here at Harvard, this class serves as an interesting model. For us, the gap between student and physician — the global health physician in training — is narrower.If you’re an undergraduate or graduate student and have an essay to share about life at Harvard, please email your ideas to Jim Concannon, the Gazette’s news editor, at Jim_Concannon@harvard.edu.
This Week’s Picks! Phantom, Michael Shannon, Bridges & More
Swoon For Bridges One Last TimeMay 18 at the Schoenfeld TheatreIt’s the end of the road for The Bridges of Madison County, the beautifully bittersweet musical by Jason Robert Brown and Marsha Norman. So make sure you catch Tony nominee Kelli O’Hara and Steven Pasquale as the two strangers whose lives get thrown for a passionate loop over a heated four-day romance in the most exotic of locales: Iowa! If you need a fix afterwards, fear not—there’s the novel, the movie, and of course, this fan fiction. Click for tickets! Learn Lessons From Kate BaldwinMay 15 at 54 BelowLet’s be honest: we’d pay to hear Kate Baldwin sing a takeout menu. But the Tony nominee singing her Broadway favorites while sharing the lessons she learned in her journey from college student to the star of Finian’s Rainbow and Big Fish? We’re so in! That’s the focus of Baldwin’s Sing Pretty, Don’t Fall Down, her first NYC solo concert in three years. Click for tickets! Get Creeped Out by Michael ShannonMay 17 at Theatre for a New AudienceThe perpetually intense Michael Shannon is playing a “cheerful, well-meaning everyman?” What the what? Hold on. In Eugene Ionesco’s 1959 play The Killer, Shannon begins as a man who discovers a dream city of beautiful gardens and stunning architecture near his own shabby digs. But there’s a catch. No, not sky high rents and limited parking. A serial killer is running amok! And you thought stalled subways were a pain. Click for tickets! Michael Shannon Support the ClassicsMay 12 at the Hudson Theatre in the Millenium Broadway HotelWant to dress up like a million-dollar trooper and support the arts? Well, the Classic Stage Company provides the perfect opportunity with its annual Musical Masterworks Gala. This year, a collection of stage stars, including Jeremy Jordan, Brooke Shields and Santino Fontana, salute Rodgers & Hammerstein, Stephen Sondheim, Jerome Kern and Lorenz Hart. Try your best not to sing along—or get mustard on your gown. Click for tickets! Spring is finally, officially, here. Woo-hoo! But if Mother Nature suddenly plays some sick meteorological joke and New York gets blasted with a blizzard, that’s still no excuse to say inside. There’s plenty of great stuff happening this week, including the arrival of a new Phantom and Christine, the early departure of a new musical, and a Broadway belle’s one-woman show. It’s all part of this week’s must-see list! View Comments See Norm Lewis Make HistoryMay 12 at the Majestic TheatreIt’s time to go down to the Phantom’s lair once more! Tony nominee Norm Lewis debuts as the first African-American to play the title role in The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway. Even better: It’s the venerable actor’s dream role, so he’ll be primed. Even betterer: He’s playing opposite his Little Mermaid co-star, the returning Sierra Boggess, who is “the best Christine,” according to Andrew Lloyd Webber. So, yeah, this is a “dear diary” moment waiting to happen. Click for tickets! Star Files
State Auditor: Orange County Finances Not Being Managed in a Sound Manner
State Auditor’s Office Releases Audit of Orange County:County Finances Not Being Managed in a Sound Manner;Numerous Internal Control Deficiencies NotedMONTPELIER – Finances at the Orange County Courthouse are not being handled ina fiscally responsible manner, and poor management by the county’s elected assistant judgeshas contributed to the problem, according to a 32-page report released today by the Office ofState Auditor Tom Salmon, CPA.Salmon commissioned the audit in May before he was called to active duty as a memberof the U.S. Navy Reserve; he is now deployed in Iraq. The audit initially targeted payrollprocedures due to citizen concerns about possible improprieties, but was broadened to includea range of internal controls and financial procedures and transactions.”We found a number of financial errors, poor procedures and controls, missingdocumentation and weak record-keeping,” said Deputy State Auditor George Thabault, “butwe did not find evidence of any misappropriation of assets.” Questioned costs on a number ofmatters totaled $7,337, some of which has already been paid back to the county.The report noted that many problems stem from the fact that the county has notestablished adequate accounting and personnel policies and procedures, and that there is alack of segregation of duties and insufficient review of county disbursements. (Segregation ofduties is the division of key duties and responsibilities among different staff to reduce the riskof errors and fraud.)Auditors noted, among other findings:- some employee earned benefits which were not accounted for sufficiently, andsignificant compensatory time (‘comp time’) of 213 hours and $3,648 for oneemployee could not be substantiated by any documentation;- one employee was paid for 80 hours in a pay period but only had 59 hours markedon the time sheet; the employee was also overpaid $523 when the county paid for aretroactive raise;- the county did not make timely deposits of federal income taxes;- the county incorrectly calculated accrued vacation and sick time for employees;- the county clerk is not authorized under state law to sign checks, but signed about25 percent of checks tested;- the county maintains five bank accounts with the Mascoma Savings Bank, andaccount reconciliations were often performed late, had significant unreconcileddifferences, and were not reviewed by a supervisor; and- county officers were not complying with several state statutes that require certainquarterly and annual financial reports, and publication of annual financial details inlocal newspapers.Among other minor errors, auditors found that two employees did not withhold or payenough to cover the cost of dental insurance premiums for family members. Both have sincereimbursed the county a total of $638. Auditors issued approximately 30 recommendations toimprove policies, procedures and monitoring of county disbursements.The business operations of Orange County government are directed by Assistant JudgesPrudence Pease and Maurice Brown. Assistant judges are elected for four-year terms byCounty voters.The Orange County assistant judges currently receive a salary of $9,500 each per year,with health and other benefits; the county budget is approximately $700,000. All CountyAssistant Judges also receive State part-time compensation at $142.04 a day for judicial dutiesperformed in Family Court, Superior Court, Traffic Court, meetings and trainings.In their response to the audit, the assistant judges expressed general agreement with thefindings; they noted they have already improved procedures related to reporting state funds,and promised to quickly implement fiscal management procedures to address the reportsrecommendations.Please note:The full report can be found on State Auditor Tom Salmon’s web sitewww.auditor.vermont.gov(link is external)(Click on Audits and Reports, then Special Audits.)– 30 —
Head of the Class: 50 of the Best Rivers in the Southeast
Plan this summer’s adventures with our guide to the best rivers in the Southeast. Grab your kayak, canoe, SUP, raft, or inflatable kayak and get wet on these scenic stretches of river.CLASS IShenandoah River, Va.For a scenic float down a cool river, head to Shenandoah. The beauty here is the perfect antidote for a long week cooped up in a cubicle.The South Fork of the Shenandoah treats the novice paddler to riffles and waves, with plenty of pools to work on the forward stroke and simply enjoy the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The nine-mile stretch starts at Inskeep Landing and ends at Foster’s Landing. The river is wide and, in the summer, can become quite shallow. If it hasn’t rained recently, consider floating down the river in a tube instead of a canoe.The river is chock full of bass, sunfish, and catfish, so bring a fishing pole and remember that Virginia requires a fishing license.Fun fact: Legend has it that a few miles from the Shenandoah River near Harper’s Ferry, there’s a cave once used by Confederate troops to hide from the Union cavalry during the Civil War.When to go: For higher water, go during spring flows. The summer is perfect for tubing.Shuttle: Put-in at Inskeep Landing, located off Route 684 on the left bank of the river downstream of the bridge. Ample parking is available. Takeout is approximately nine miles farther down off Route 684 on the left bank of the river.Beware: If using Inskeep as a takeout from a float originating upstream, there is a mandatory portage around a low-head dam. Also keep in mind that other than the designated access points operated by Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fishers, the banks of the rivers are private property.Best Beer Nearby: Jack Brown’s in nearby Harrisonburg, Virginia has close to 100 different beers. The burger joint also dishes up fried Oreos for dessert. Bras hang from the chandeliers, and a deer head donning scuba gear rounds out the décor.Best of the Rest For those whose kayaks haven’t seen much action all winter, these stretches provide the perfect opportunity to brush up on paddling skills. For a great wilderness float, head to the Greenbrier River in West Virginia. The Greenbrier is also a great fishing river with ample riverside campsites.North Carolina offers ample runs perfect for the beginner paddler. The Roanoke River is a three-mile stretch that’s mostly flat with one Class II rapid, aptly named “The Rapid.” For a step up, the Tuckaseegee River’s pool-drop rapids provide beginners with loads of recovery time between rapids. The South Toe can’t be beat for a splashy ride through sparkling emerald water. Originally named the “Estatoe River” after a beautiful Native American maiden, the river’s name has since been shortened to simply “Toe.” The Yadkin River boasts a 165-mile long canoe trail with thirty-eight different access sites. After a good rain, the Davidson River is a scenic paddle with Class I and II rapids, but be on the lookout for trees. On the hottest summer days, grab a bikini or board shorts and head to Deep Creek in Bryson City for some of the South’s best tubing. Put-in options abound, and the higher the put-in, the more adventurous the ride.CLASS IINantahala River, N.C.On any given summer day, a parade of rafts, kayaks, and canoes float down the river. Recently, more stand up paddleboards have been added to the mix. And there’s been at least one spotting of an inflatable pool.The Nantahala, the classic Southeastern run for beginner paddlers, is within the Nantahala National Forest and near Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The stretch of river contains over twenty named rapids. Right after putting in, paddlers are put to the test with a Class II+ rapid, Patton’s Run, and the fitting climax is Nantahala Falls, just above the take-out.The Nantahala is one of the most rafted rivers in the country. The scenery provides reason enough for most to want to enjoy the river. The entire run is roadside, but from the hull of a kayak the road is difficult to discern. Instead, paddlers are treated to views of the tree-covered ridges of the Nantahala Gorge. Tulip poplar, sycamore, and beech trees line the river.Besides the scenery, the Nantahala is a good training run. Relatively safe, plenty of opportunities to play, and dependable releases make the river a sure bet. The river is so playable that the 2013 Freestyle World Championships were held on the Nantahala.Fun fact: The word “Nantahala” comes from a Cherokee word meaning “midday sun.” The sun doesn’t reach deep in the gorge until noon time. The lack of sun, coupled with the forty-five degree dam-released water, means that paddlers need to dress warmly even in the summer.When to go: The Nantahala usually runs seven days a week.Shuttle: Park at the Nantahala Outdoor Center and catch a shuttle to the put-in for a small feel. Shuttles run hourly from April through October. For those wanting to add a jog to the day, some paddlers forge a path along the railroad tracks and riverside to the put-in.Beware: Just downstream of the take-out is Lower Nantahala Falls, a Class V rapid. The sharp blasted rocks make this a rapid in which paddlers don’t ever want to be upside down, so unless you’re up for the challenge, make sure not to miss the takeout.Best Beer Nearby: Head to Nantahala Brewing Company in Bryson City to celebrate a fun day on the river. The local brewery’s craft brews include Noon Day IPA, App Trail Extra Pale Ale, Bryson City Brown, Dirty Girl Blonde, and Up River Amber.Best of the RestThere’s no shortage of quality class II runs. In West Virginia, the North Fork South Branch of the Potomac treats paddlers to fantastic views of the North Fork Mountains and Spruce Mountain. Farther south in the state, the Bluestone River offers paddlers a protected unspoiled river, surrounded by the lush, temperate rain forest. At times the river flows through a rugged gorge and the rapids range from Class II to Class III.Virginia paddlers don’t have to go far to practice their strokes. The Dan River provides paddlers with a creek-like feel. Paddlers looking to challenge themselves can put-in higher for a few Class III rapids. Otherwise, paddlers should put-in at the parking lot below the first bridge. The James River, a 2.5-mile run with a few Class III rapids, flows right through Richmond. This means that those who live and work in the city don’t have to travel far to paddle. They do, however, have to contend with urban hazards like low-head dams and rebar. Another Virginia favorite is Charlottesville’s Rivanna River, protected as a Virginia State Scenic River. For solid Class II paddlers ready for more whitewater adventure, the Motts-Run-to-Fredericksburg section of the Rappahannock River offers almost five miles of Class II+ rapids.Tennessee favorites include the Watauga and Obed Rivers. The upper section of the Red Roof Run on the Watauga above the dam is easy Class II with plenty of time in between rapids. Below the dam, the nature of the run drastically changes to technical and continuous Class IV rapids. The Obed River located in the Cumberland Plateau flows some 400 feet deep through a sandstone gorge. No commercial outfitters run the river, so paddlers have the gorgeous scenery to themselves. Class II paddlers will enjoy putting-in at Potters Ford and paddling to Obed Junction where Daddy Creek flows into the river.Beginner North Carolina paddlers should check out the Little Tennessee, the Oconaluftee, and the French Broad. The free-flowing Little Tennessee River ends with a bang when the Class III rapid is in play (only after a good rain). The Oconaluftee is a short 3.2-mile run with one Class III rapid, “Elbow,” so named because the cleanest line resembles the zig-zag of a bent elbow. Proficient Class II paddlers should consider the Barnard to Stackhouse section of the French Broad, where the wide river provides paddlers with easier lines to negotiate some of the Class III rapids.The Cartecay River in Northern Georgia, provides paddlers and tubers a chance to stay cool in the heat of summer. The river flows through Ellijay, Ga.
Vote for your favorite river on our listCLASS IIILower New River, W.Va. The New River gorge provides reason enough for West Virginia to claim “Wild and Wonderful” as the state motto. The rugged nature of this free-flowing river, with its boisterous rapids walled in by tall tree-lined canyons, completely immerses paddlers in the moment. As the river winds way through the wooded canyon nearly 1,000-feet deep, the leisurely pools between rapids provide paddlers a brief respite from the action.At summertime levels when the river runs at negative levels, the lower New River Gorge is the perfect run for the eager intermediate paddler. The seven mile stretch of river from Thurmond to Fayetteville Station contains dozens of mostly Class III rapids.The New River is a big-volume, wide river that can be run at many levels. The New River is free-flowing, which means spring often brings the highest water levels and by late summertime, the levels drop, resulting in smaller rapids. At levels above two feet, intermediate paddlers will want to be with experienced paddlers who know the lines well, especially for the Kenneys, a series of three rapids, and Double Z. Paddlers without big water paddling skills should stay off the river above six feet, when the swims become longer and both the number and size of eddies decrease.Fun fact: The name “New River” is actually a misnomer—it’s the oldest river in North America. It’s also one of only a handful of large rivers in the world that flows from south to north.When to go: The season is April through October. The highest water levels and wildest rides occur in spring.Shuttle: The take-out is at Fayetteville Station. From Fayetteville, take Route 19 to WV 82 down to the river. To get to the put-in, take Route 19 to Main Street in Fayetteville. Drive through town and take a left at the fork in the road just past the convenience store. Follow signs to Cunard. A local paddle shop, ACE Adventure Gear, offers a free Wednesday night shuttle service. Meet at Fayette Station at 5 p.m. ready to load gear and boats onto the bus. The bus drops paddlers off at the put-in. The free shuttle is a great way to meet local paddling partners.Beware: Some rapids contain hazardous undercut rocks.Best Beer Nearby: Pies & Pints Pizzeria off Main Street in Fayetteville offers a great selection of beer, along with, you guessed it, some great pizza.Best of the RestFrom Pennsylvania to Georgia, the region provides abundant paddling opportunities for the intermediate paddler. The Lower Yough in Pennsylvania, considered one of the busiest sections of whitewater in the East, flows through Ohiopyle State Park. The nearby Savage River provides five miles of continuous Class III whitewater within the Savage River State Park. Paddlers who catch one of the dam releases boat past some of the last remaining old-growth forests in Maryland. The Savage River was also the site of the 1989 Kayaking World Championships.Besides the New River, West Virginia boasts the Cranberry, a classic creek run through wilderness terrain. With plenty of Class III+ ledges and boulder gardens to navigate, paddlers should have a combat roll before paddling the Cranberry. For paddlers who enjoy eddy-hopping, the Williams provides paddlers plenty of chances to move from eddy to eddy as they paddle down the narrow creek.North Carolina paddlers flock to the Pigeon River. Interstate 40 provides easy access to this mostly roadside run, although from the seat of a kayak, a boater sees only the surrounding Cherokee National Forest. Another favorite southeast river that straddles the North Carolina/Tennessee border is the Ocoee. The Middle Ocoee is perfect for the advanced intermediate. The put-in, at the base of the dam, give paddlers little chance to warm-up before tackling the first rapid, which is a long and continuous Class III+ rapid named “Grumpies.” The rest of the run is full of roller-coaster-like big waves.Tennessee’s Big South Fork is big water fun well worth a drive to the Cumberland Plateau. Winding through the rugged cliff lined gorge gives this run a real wilderness adventure tone.Head to North Georgia to paddle the Chattooga, made famous by the movie Deliverance. The movie opened in 1972. Roughly 800 paddlers used the river in 1971. By 1973, 21,000 boaters logged river time on the Chattooga. Section III of the Chattooga provides the intermediate paddler with Class II and III rapids. Midway down, class-V Bull Sluice juices things up a bit. Bull Sluice is easy to portage.CLASS IVUpper Youghioghny River, Md. The combination of predictable summer releases, continuous and technical rapids, and easy shuttle logistics make the Upper Youghiogheny a paddling gem. Locals refer to the ten-mile stretch of river from Sang Run to Friendsville as the “Upper Yough” (hint, it sounds like “Yock”).The paddle begins with two miles of flattish water, perfect for taking in the scenery. Designated as Maryland’s only Wild and Scenic River, dense green forests border the water’s edge. The banks are abundant with ferns, honeysuckle, rhododendrum, blooming tiger lilies and shockingly bright red cardinal flowers during various times of the summer.The character of the river changes at mile two. Class III rapids known as the warm-ups replace the flat water. If this section leaves you gripped, you might want to consider hiking back to the put-in before the real action starts.Next, the aptly named “miracle mile” starts, starting with a rapid named “Bastard” and ending with “National Falls.” The river drops over 120 feet during this mile and there’s little break in the action. The intensity of the rapids doesn’t stop until mile seven, when the river resumes a gentle nature with mostly Class I and II rapids.Fun fact: Friendsville is named after its first European settler John Friend, who came to the area before the Revolutionary War. Many of John Friend’s descendants live in Garrett County today.When to go: Class IV paddlers should wait until water levels reach summertime release levels of under two feet. Any higher, and the river gets really pushy. Summertime releases are scheduled for Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays. Sometimes mid-week releases happen, so catch one if you can.Shuttle: The Upper Yough runs right through the town of Friendsville, and the take-out is on river left after the bridge. The put-in is at Sang Run, a public Maryland State access field. Note that American Whitewater signed an agreement with the state of Maryland to manage the Sang Run access. Paddlers’ donations keep the port-a-potties clean and the grass mowed, so please be generous.Beware: Posters displayed all over town read: “Please remember the following activities are offensive and illegal: changing clothes in public view, blocking traffic with boats or bodies, and drinking alcoholic beverages in public. Citations will be issued.” Respect the locals. No nudity or beer drinking in public.Best Beer Nearby: Nearby Mountain State Brewing Company offers the perfect atmosphere for celebrating a great day on the river. Nestled between picturesque rolling hills, the outdoor seating offers prime sunset viewing. The brewery serves its own beer, along with a big selection of pizza and wraps. The brewery also frequently features live music.Best of the RestClass IV paddlers can pick between low-volume creek-styled runs or big water rivers in some of the most scenic areas of the Blue Ridge. West Virginia’s Cheat Canyon is spring paddling at its finest. The mighty Cheat Canyon remains the largest free-flowing watershed east of the Mississippi and contains ten miles of action-packed rapids.Every April, paddlers come to the Webster Wildwater Weekend River Festival to race or participate in organized river trips on the Elk River in West Virginia.Paddlers in Tennessee can be picky—there are many choice Class IV runs throughout the state. The Nolichucky runs through the deepest gorge in the East and gets started right away with several Class IV rapids within the first few miles.In North Carolina, favorite Class IV runs include the Cheoah, Wilson Creek, and nearby Harper’s Creek. The Cheoah River’s emerald green hued water starts off as Class III and culminates with big Class IV rapids. Be sure to catch one of the fifteen scheduled release days. The California-style rock-slab characterizes Wilson Creek, providing advanced intermediate paddlers with plenty of boof practice. Nearby Harper’s Creek features a massive waterfall in the middle of the run, Harper Creek Falls, that can be hiked and hucked. Many opt to paddle the whole stretch for fun Class III and IV rapids and epic views of the Blue Ridge.In North Georgia, Section 4 of the Chattooga allows paddlers plenty of warm-up rapids before tackling the more challenging Five Falls section. At Five Falls, paddlers will want to be sure to set safety.CLASS VLinville Gorge, N.C. For one of the most difficult stretches of whitewater in the Eastern U.S., head to Linville Gorge. After a recent rain, the river charges some twenty miles from Linville Falls to Lake James. The river carved a path through the rocks of Appalachia, creating a gorge thousands of feet deep. Linville Gorge is located between the towns of Boone and Morgantown. Over the years, Linville has been dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the East.” The river is at once magical and technical, legendary and demanding, breathtaking and mysterious.Committing to paddle Linville requires having impeccable paddling skills and being in the zone on a given day. The river is known for its hundreds of rapids, characterized by their continuous, long, and technically demanding nature. A capsize or swim could potentially be catastrophic.Linville provides paddlers with one horizon line after another. Paddlers don’t have the option of letting their guard down, even in the easier rapids. Sieves and undercut rocks define the river. Huge boulders often punctuate the rapids, and water tends to flow under, instead of around, these boulders. Paddlers tackling Linville must assume they will have no way out due to the remoteness of the run.If the rapids don’t take a paddler’s breath away, the gorgeous surroundings will. The 11,000-acre Linville Gorge Wilderness Area designation protects both the river and its banks.Fun fact: The area surrounding Linville was used for filming scenes from The Last of the Mohicans.When to go: The best runs are after a recent rainfall. Linville is a free-flowing river.Shuttle: Although Linville is only 45 minutes from Asheville on Interstate 40, plan for the shuttle to take time. There are many options for alternative put-in and takeouts. Most take-out options require a strenuous hike straight uphill that takes most paddlers an hour.Beware: Shuttle vehicles should have decent clearing and four-wheel drive. The river is hair-raising Class V and should only be attempted by expert paddlers.Best Beer Nearby: Linville is a true wilderness run. The best bet for beer is whatever’s in the truck at the takeout. Pack your cooler accordingly.Best of the RestAny Class V paddler who’s been to Tucker County in West Virginia will sing the praises of the East Fork of the Blackwater River for stacking up continuous, technical Class V rapids. Adding to the intrigue is the dark hue of the water, so colored because of the leaching of tannins from decaying hemlocks and red spruce that occurs upstream in the slower moving tributaries.Another favorite is the Russell Fork, located between Haysi, Va., and Elkhorn City, Ky., and celebrated for its sheer beauty. The Lord of the Fork Race is the annual extreme Class V downriver race held there every October.North Carolina contenders for best Class V runs include the rivers of the Southern Blue Ridge Escarpment that seemingly tumble off the edge of the world—the Horsepasture, Toxaway, and Whitewater Rivers. The long, granite slides often get compared to California paddling. For an adrenaline-inducing serious creek run, put-in at the base of 250-foot Cullasaja Falls and paddle the several Class V/V+ rapids. If you can catch one of the eight scheduled releases, the Cascades of Nantahala is a roadside Class V with rapids with fear-inducing names like “Horns of God” and “Junkyard.” Another classic worth catching is the East Fork of the Pigeon, which can only be accessed from the Blue Ridge Parkway. The pristine water and clean boulder drops make it well worth the effort.While not one of the most demanding rivers, West Virginia’s Upper Gauley draws paddlers from all over the world. Every fall, the Gauley River hosts the biggest whitewater party. Gauley Fest is held each year in mid-September.
Fifth DCA is in need of a judge
Fifth DCA is in need of a judge March 1, 2006 Regular News Fifth DCA is in need of a judge The Fifth District Court of Appeal Judicial Nominating Commission is now accepting applications to fill a vacancy on the Fifth DCA.Applicants must have been members of the Bar in good standing for the preceding 10 years, registered voters, and reside in the Fifth District. Applicants also must submit a background statement in substantial compliance with The Florida Bar application. All applicants must also submit waivers of confidentiality of all materials necessary to adequately investigate each applicant.Applications may be obtained from the office of Ladd H. Fassett, JNC Chair, Fassett, Anthony & Taylor, 1325 W Colonial Dr., Orlando 32804, phone (407) 872-0200, fax (407) 422-8170, e-mail lfassett@fassettlaw.com, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., or they may be downloaded from The Florida Bar’s Web site at floridabar.org.An original and 10 copies of the completed application must be returned to Fassett no later than 5 p.m., March 15.
Freeport, Setauket Armed Home Invasions Probed
Sign up for our COVID-19 newsletter to stay up-to-date on the latest coronavirus news throughout New York Authorities are investigating a pair of armed home invasions three days apart, including one in which a suspect was arrested for allegedly stabbing a woman, officials said.Thomas W. CummingsThomas Cummings, 47, of Freeport, knocked on his neighbor’s door and when she answered, he pushed his way inside, stabber her with a fork, then grabbed a knife from the kitchen and stabbed her with it at 9:45 p.m. Friday, Nassau County police said. Cummings then fled and the victim was treated for her injuries at a local hospital.First Squad detectives charged Cummings with first-degree burglary, assault and criminal possession of a weapon. He was ordered held without bail and is due back in court Tuesday.Three days prior, three men broke down the door of a Gables Boulevard home in Setauket, demanded money from a victim, who believed the trio was armed with a gun, and stole jewelry and other items at 12:50 a.m. Aug. 16, Suffolk County police said.There were neither any arrests nor description of the suspects in that case. Detectives are continuing the investigation.
Binghamton University professor explores health on global scale in new book
The book is titled “Global Health Impact: Extending Access to Essential Medicines,” and explores the lack of access to medicine many people face across the world, while focusing on developing countries. Split into three parts, her book seeks to help in inspire readers to come up with creative ways to address the issue of medical access on a global scale. She says the answers are in her book. In it, Hassoun says she makes the argument that pharmaceutical companies, countries and organizations need to do their part to make sure everyone has access to medications that people rely on to combat disease and sickness. Professor of Philosophy Nicole Hassoun began writing the book in 2012. “What is going on in global health?” she asks. “What does the global health landscape even look like? What are pharmaceutical companies even doing? How come the medicine costs are so high?”
Hassoun told 12 News she wrote the book to provoke thoughts and answer tough questions. (WBNG) — A Binghamton University professor has authored a new book which argues everyone in the world should have access to basic medicines. “I mean the idea that people should have a human right to health that protects their right to live minimally well is important no matter where we are,” Hassoun said. “We need to think creatively to come up with solutions to all the problems that we are facing.” The book’s publishing release was delayed a year in the United States, but will officially hit the shelves next Friday, July 17.
Dani Ceballos is loving life at Arsenal and drops hint over his future
Metro Sport ReporterFriday 13 Sep 2019 10:07 amShare this article via facebookShare this article via twitterShare this article via messengerShare this with Share this article via emailShare this article via flipboardCopy link291Shares Dani Ceballos starred for Spain during the international break (Picture: Getty)‘I’ve been warned about the cold. But I love football here, the way they live and breathe it. I’ve never seen anything like it,’ he told the Guardian.‘You play away and there are at least a thousand fans supporting you.‘I don’t care if it’s raining or snowing. I’m looking forward to playing every three days over Christmas. It’s a great experience.‘I don’t know what I’ll say in a year but now I’m happy. They see the game like I do; I love football like they do. They respect you and a player has to feel wanted. You applaud them and they applaud you back.’More: Arsenal FCArsenal flop Denis Suarez delivers verdict on Thomas Partey and Lucas Torreira movesThomas Partey debut? Ian Wright picks his Arsenal starting XI vs Manchester CityArsene Wenger explains why Mikel Arteta is ‘lucky’ to be managing Arsenal Dani Ceballos played a key role in Arsenal’s comeback against Tottenham (Picture: Getty)Dani Ceballos admits he is loving life at Arsenal but will not be able to make a decision on his future until the end of the season.The Spain international arrived on a season-long loan from Real Madrid in the summer and has already established himself as an integral component of Unai Emery’s midfield and a firm favourite with his new fans.Ceballos was afforded a standing ovation following his home debut against Burnley last month and played a key role in helping Arsenal come back from 2-0 down to force a draw in the north London derby prior to the international break.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe 23-year-old reportedly requested that his loan deal was not to include an obligation to buy option but hinted his stay in north London could be longer term and insisted he was looking forward to playing regular football over the festive period, regardless of the inclement weather.ADVERTISEMENTMore: FootballRio Ferdinand urges Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to drop Manchester United starChelsea defender Fikayo Tomori reveals why he made U-turn over transfer deadline day moveMikel Arteta rates Thomas Partey’s chances of making his Arsenal debut vs Man City Comment Dani Ceballos is loving life at Arsenal and drops hint over his future Advertisement Advertisement
Jacob ‘Jake’ Nettnay
Jacob “Jake” Nettnay passed away March 18, 2018, from complications of cancer. He was born February 20, 1990, in Kentucky.Jake is survived by his parents Kent and Barbara Nettnay, his sister Alix (Nick) Craft, nephews Wilder and Levon, aunts, uncles and numerous cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Max & Ellen Nettnay and Ken & Juanita Nussbaum.Jake packed numerous experiences into his short life. His proudest accomplishments were earning the rank of Eagle in Boy Scouts and graduating from Wabash College. While at Wabash he became a member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity and was editor-in-chief of The Phoenix.Jake was a curious individual. He studied many disciplines that piqued his interest: mathematics, Christianity, philosophy, and Old English to name a few. He interned with the Indiana State Senate, where he experienced Indiana politics. Another year he taught geometry at LaSallette Academy.Jake’s final job was at the Hill-Rom Call Center. His proudest moment there came when he answered the call from a hospital in Las Vegas on October 1, 2017, the night of the mass shooting. He was responsible for getting as many of a Hill-Rom product delivered there as quickly as possible.A professor at Wabash once said that sometimes to change the world all one needs to do is find a small piece of it and love it deeply. Batesville was Jake’s beloved place. He had dreams to buy “the prettiest house in Batesville” (a small brick farmhouse) and someday run for mayor. A favorite pastime of his was walking Brum Woods.He was diagnosed with adrenocortical cancer on November 17, 2017. It is a very rare and aggressive cancer with few treatment options. His final months were spent with family and friends whom he cherished.Visitation will be Friday, April 6, 2018, from 5-8pm and Saturday, April 7, from 9-10:30am all at Meyers Funeral Home in Batesville.Funeral services will be 11am on Saturday at Batesville United Methodist Church in Batesville. Burial to follow in the Batesville UMC Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, Jake requested memorials be made to the nonprofit corporation Summer Food for Kids, P.O. Box 351, Batesville, IN 47006. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.meyersfuneralhomes.com.
McLeish interested in Palace job
Press Association McLeish has top-flight managerial experience with Birmingham and Aston Villa, although he took the Blues down to the second tier on two occasions. The Scot has been eager to get back in to football since leaving Nottingham Forest in February, and Palace are one of the clubs on his radar. “There hasn’t been any contact yet but I am available as a free agent,” McLeish told Sky Sports News. “Crystal Palace are in a position that’s precarious for them but there’s still a lot of points to play for. “I’ve had those kind of challenges before and I’ve had some success and some failures, but if you’ve got a fighting spirit and good players playing to their strengths, then why can’t Palace stay up?” Coleman is yet to speak publicly on the idea of succeeding Holloway. However, the 43-year-old is yet to commit his future to Wales beyond November, when his contract expires, despite being offered a new deal. Coleman has strong links with Palace, having been a feted member of the playing staff for four years during the 1990s, but he is not the only candidate being considered. Alex McLeish has declared his interest in becoming the new manager of Crystal Palace. The odds on Wales manager Chris Coleman taking over at Selhurst Park have shortened dramatically in the last 24 hours following a flurry of bets, but McLeish has thrown his hat in to the ring for the position, which has been vacant since Ian Holloway’s departure last Wednesday. Holloway guided Palace in the Barclays Premier League through the play-offs, but lost the respect of the players and left by mutual consent with the team bottom of the table. Martin O’Neill and Tony Pulis are reported to have held talks with Palace, while Neil Warnock’s name has also been mentioned. Palace have confirmed that caretaker manager Keith Millen will be in charge for Saturday’s game against West Brom. Millen was in the dugout for last weekend’s 2-0 defeat to Arsenal – the Eagles’ eighth reverse of a season that has so far yielded just three points. 
Recent Comments