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An Education in the Dangers of Mercury in Rubber Gym Floors
by Insurance Restoration Specialists | Jan 3, 2020 | Commercial Environmental Remediation Services | 0 comments
An expert panel presented the necessary steps to begin the mercury inspection and remediation process
The middle of the twentieth century saw a wave of innovation: Radial tires, the polio vaccine, solar cells, computer hard disks, color television, Velcro, the first pacemaker. Less touted, but equally ubiquitous, were rubberized synthetic floors. Their low-maintenance durability and modern finishes saw them widely installed in schools, hospitals, nursing homes, community centers, and other public spaces. Unlike their groundbreaking counterparts, however, some of these synthetic floors did not continue to benefit the populace far into the future. In fact, the years have turned what was once revolutionary into a potentially dangerous environmental health hazard found in today's older schools, health facilities, and commercial and municipal buildings. Insurance Restoration Specialists, Inc. (IRS) of Monroe, New Jersey, recently sponsored a seminar to educate New Jersey School Board Association (NJSBA) members about the dangers lurking under school gym floors.
Why is mercury being found in school floors?
Many rubberized synthetic floors installed in the 1960's were made with phenyl mercuric acetate (PMA). The PMA acted as a catalyst in the rubber material. As the floor ages and deteriorates, however, mercury vapor from the PMA is released into the air. Exposure to mercury vapor, a known neurotoxin, can cause serious health effects. According to the World Health Organization, "The inhalation of mercury vapor can produce harmful effects on the nervous, digestive and immune systems, lungs and kidneys."
Not all synthetic flooring contains mercury and not all floors with PMA emit mercury vapors into the air. Still, it isn't known how many of these floors exist or where they are located. Floors installed from the 1960s through the 1990s are suspect, but mercury can be found in newer floors or even in padded wall materials.
In response to this information, many school districts around the country are now investigating their facilities. As a designated provider of disaster response and remediation for New Jersey schools through the Educational Services Commission of NJ (ESCNJ), IRS Vice President , Tom Peter hosted a seminar for school superintendents, business administrators and school board members to learn what to expect in the mercury testing and remediation process.
"We wanted to present a summary of our experiences in dealing with these remediation efforts," says Peter. "The potential health hazards are significant and it's incumbent that administrators and facility managers proactively address the problem in schools."
Presenters included Peter, a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), an expert in indoor environmental remediation and facility hygiene. Also featured was Michael Berta, a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) and owner of AERO Environmental Services. Berta has provided industrial hygiene, safety, and health services to the educational community for over thirty years and has been involved with numerous mercury remediation projects. Also speaking was Dr. Richard Lynch, CIH, founder of Environmental Safety Management Corp (ESMC), a full service industrial hygiene consulting firm specializing in indoor air quality, mild testing, and remediation oversight and OSHA compliance.
The expert panel presented administrators with the necessary steps to begin the mercury inspection and remediation process, from air and floor testing to remediation and environmental controls should flooring be found contaminated and requiring removal.
Pre-cleaning gym ceiling and rafters
Cleaning inside and outside of ductwork
Heavy dust in ductwork
Cleaning air handling units
Begin confinement/containment of work area
What are the dangers of hazardous materials remediation in schools?
Dr. Lynch discussed the history of the presence of mercury in flooring, explained the process of sampling and the requirements of proper hazardous materials remediation. He noted that dealing with substances posing dangers like mercury required certified experienced professionals. Without accurate testing, thorough eradication, validation, and proper containment during the process, the safety of the student and staff were at risk.
Peter went on to review protocols for prepping sites for remediation. IRS recently participated in several school projects by performing pre-cleaning gym ceiling and rafters, cleaning ventilation systems, and setting containment and engineering controls before demo of the floor. "It is so important to have to work areas properly contained and ventilated to eliminate the potential for exposure to workers and cross-contamination to other areas during the remediation process," says Peter.
The contained work area
Contained work area, sealing off doorways around the gym.
Exterior chambers for decontamination and for ventilation units
Inspections of engineering controls.
Monitoring negative pressure in containment.
How are floors tested for mercury?
Berta shared several case studies illustrating the floor testing process. He included core sampling of gym floors, and explained how it was possible to have a successful remediation only requiring the top layer of the concrete subfloor once the rubberized synthetic flooring was removed. Proper testing allowed for a less impactful, costly repair while not compromising safety.
Not all sites are as fortunate. Dr. Lynch described instances where mercury had migrated from the flooring material fully through the concrete subfloor. The entire slab had to be removed and the area remediated.
Removed floor prepared for reconstruction
The two-day event also included presentations from school district representatives, the NJ Department of Health, and a representative from Healthy Schools Now. Throughout the program were open discussion and question sessions regarding potential hazards, remediation, risk assessment, risk communication, and State and Federal standards and requirements.
"The seminar presented what is becoming an increasingly important, yet challenging, issue for New Jersey schools," says Peter. "In addition to the questions about the process itself, many districts are concerned about how they will fund the work. Typically it wouldn't be covered by insurance, and in most cases the manufacturer or contractor is no longer available. It's important for school boards to get a proper assessment of the condition of their flooring in and budgeting as needed to rectify any problems that are found."
For more information on the process of testing for and remediation of hazardous materials in flooring and wall materials, contact Tom Peter at Insurance Restoration Specialists, Inc.
About Insurance Restoration Specialists, Inc.
Insurance Restoration Specialists, Inc. (IRS) is a premier provider of disaster recovery mitigation, environmental remediation, biohazard emergency response and HVAC inspection and cleaning in the New Jersey-Philadelphia-New York City area. IRS is certified by NADCA and have Certified Air Systems Cleaning Technicians and a Certified Ventilation System Inspector on staff.
IRS has been selected to provide disaster recovery services to members of the Educational Services Commission of NJ (ESCNJ), the largest co-op in the state service school districts, colleges, universities, housing authorities, and other county and state agencies throughout New Jersey.


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What Happens if a Member of your SMSF Becomes Disqualified? | Newcastle & Sydney | Butlers Law News
Home>Insolvency>What Happens if a Member of your SMSF Becomes Disqualified? | Newcastle & Sydney | Butlers Law News
What Happens if a Member of your SMSF Becomes Disqualified?
The rise of Self-Managed Superannuation Funds
Self-managed superannuation funds (SMSFs) are the fastest growing sector in Australia's super industry. The Australian Tax Office's (ATO) most recent quarterly SMSF statistical report found the total value of assets of Australian SMSFs to be approximately $701.5 billion. Considering the growing popularity of SMSFs, it is important to consider the impact bankruptcy has on these arrangements.
If a SMSF has individual trustees, each member of the fund must be a trustee and each trustee must be a member of the fund. If the members of the fund elect to use a corporate trustee, each member of the fund must be a director of the corporate trustee, and each director of the trustee must be a member of the fund. In this way, the fund is truly "self-managed" as each member has some degree of control over the operations of the fund arising from their position as a trustee or director of the corporate trustee.
Insolvency of a member of a SMSF may affect the structure of the fund and the ongoing membership of the insolvent member.
Disqualified persons
Bankrupt individuals are classified as "disqualified persons" pursuant to section 120 of the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993 (Cth) (SIS Act). A disqualified person cannot remain as an individual trustee of a SMSF. A bankrupt individual is also not permitted under ordinary circumstances to be a director of a company pursuant to section 201B of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (Corporations Act).
Insolvency of a member therefore presents a problem for a SMSF. If a member is disqualified from being an individual trustee or director of the corporate trustee, that member can no longer fulfil the fundamental requirement for a SMSF that they be involved in the management of the fund.
If a disqualified person remains a trustee of a SMSF, they are liable for penalties including imprisonment for up to two years. Further, there is a risk that the fund could be declared non-complying, which may jeopardise the concessional tax treatment of the SMSF and cause a higher than normal rate of tax to be paid on all earnings in the fund, including earnings to which non-insolvent members are beneficially entitled.
What to do if a member declares bankruptcy
If a member of a SMSF becomes bankrupt, they must inform the ATO in writing immediately.
Upon being notified, the ATO will allow the fund a six month "grace period" during which time the trustees must restructure the investments and membership of the SMSF ensure the fund complies with the law. This will generally, although not always, be achieved by the insolvent member of the fund transferring their superannuation balance to a retail superannuation fund and resigning as a member and trustee. This solution does, however, assume that the insolvent member's entitlement to assets of the fund can be readily and conveniently separated from the assets of other members, or otherwise converted into cash within the six-month restructuring period.
What if the major asset of your SMSF can't be split?
Some difficulty in complying with the law may arise where a major asset can't be divided and the insolvent member's interest in that asset transferred to a retail superannuation fund within the grace period. This could occur where the major asset of the fund is a piece of real estate and there has been a downturn in the property market. In this case, the property may not readily be sold and converted into cash, and the insolvent member likely cannot transfer out their part interest in real estate to a retail fund.
In this instance, the SMSF may apply to the Australian Prudential Regulatory Authority (APRA) to appoint an acting trustee of the SMSF for the time after the expiration of the grace period until the insolvent member can extricate themselves and their superannuation balance from the SMSF. Pursuant to section 17A(3)(d) of the SIS Act, a SMSF will not fail to comply with the SIS Act where an acting trustee appointed by APRA takes control of the fund, despite the fact that this causes the trustees of the fund to differ from the members of the fund.
While appointment of an acting trustee presents a solution to breach of the law where an insolvent member cannot transfer their superannuation balance within the grace period, the solution is less than ideal. An acting trustee will likely be entitled to management fees which will eat into the superannuation interest of all members of the SMSF.
Bankruptcy significantly impacts the function and effectiveness of SMSFs. If you or another member of your SMSF is verging on bankruptcy or has been declared bankrupt you should seek legal advice tailored to your circumstances at the earliest opportunity.
Want to know more about insolvency? Looking for an experienced solicitor in Newcastle, Sydney or the Hunter to assist you with your legal matter? Call us on (02) 4929 7002, email us or complete an enquiry form.
admin2022-01-12T05:34:54+11:00March 19th, 2018|Insolvency|

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MegaPersonals EU
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MegaPersonals EU - Free Classified Hookups & Other Escort Sites
How many escort sites do we need in today's adult landscape? More. The answer is always more. Any place that helps connects slutty escorts and willing clients is always a good thing, and we've made it our goal to review every single of them.
Today, we're looking at a site called MegaPersonals.EU (despite the domain address, it's actually a national platform). Is the site any good? Will it help you find legit escorts nearby? We've reviewed everything for you. Here's your best guide around MegaPersonals.
MegaPersonals.EU - What Is It?
Post your own ad
Efficient system
Phone numbers provided
Diverse categories
Some fakes
Censored nudity
Alternative Classified Ad Sites
Escorts Affair
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MegaPersonals EU - Is It Worth It?
MegaPersonals.EU is an escort listings website. That means users can sign up, browse through ads and find a local working girl to spend the evening with. First time visitors will need to sign up for a free account with their basic details (age, location, email address) then login and you're free to browse the site. It's very simple and straightforward.
Although MegaPersonals.EU has a European domain name, the website actually covers areas across the world. You'll find listings in Europe, United States, Canada and Oceania. There's a decent amount of activity in each portal and we'll tell you straight away that this is a genuine escort website. It's not a scam like so many other websites in this niche.
MegaPersonals.EU actually looks really good. It's got a cheeky, colorful, cartoonish vibe going on with its vibrant elements and oversized text. There's a big-tittied brunette in a devil uniform sitting in the middle of the screen too, so you'll know exactly what this website is about before you even read the disclaimer.
Select your location then choose the category you want (women for men, men for men, etc) then you'll find all of the available listings. When you dig into a listing, you'll see a list of available sexual services and at least one contact method for the escort in question. Overall, first impressions of MegaPersonalsEU are solid.
This makes up for the bulk of MegaPersonals. There are five subsections to chose from (W4M, M4W, W4W, M4M and T4A). Dig into these and you'll find all of the available listings in each area. All listings are required to have at least 2 pics so you'll be able to see the girl in full, and each listing also includes a list of sexual services and interests.
This one's useful even if you're a client. Although MegaPersonals is considered an escort listing page, clients can post on here too. Just hit the 'post your own ad' link underneath the devil woman, complete the drop-down menus and then describe what you're looking for in the text box. You'll need to create an account and login to do this.
All of the girls (and guys) offer their direct contact details through their listings, meaning you don't have to chat with them through the MegaPersonals messaging system. Most persons are happy to put up their phone numbers so you can call them outright to save time messaging. This is a massive advantage (as plenty of sites don't offer this feature).
You don't need to login to see all of the live listings on here. However, if you do create an account, all you need is your basic data, username and password (then confirm your identity) and you're ready to go. Registered users get access to a few other features but they're not super important.
The way MegaPersonals presents its page is quite appealing. It only takes a few seconds to find the portal for your country, state, city, etc. It also lays out its listings by relevance rather than the newness so you might see listings by more desired models at the top of the page rather than the most recent posts.
If there's one thing we hate, it's having to message escorts directly through the website portal. However, all of the ladies on MegaPersonals put up their phone numbers so you can arrange your meet up without having to scvrew around with sending and receiving e-mails.
When MegaPersonals says it's free, it means it. You don't even need to create an account to browse (although users will need an account to comment and place their own ads). There are no options to pay for anything on here so you don't have to worry about the website sneaking money out of your account.
MegaPersonals offers thousands of available escorts from all over the world. France, Spain, Canada, USA, South America and everywhere in between. There's also a diverse range of models, from older pro escorts to younger girls who just do the whole sex work thing as a side gig.
Every adult hub on the web has fake content of some sort. On MegaPersonals, you'll quickly discover it comes in the form of fake listings. However, MegaPersonals has a great support team that quickly wipes out any scammy or fraud profiles, so respect where it's due.
MegaPersonals is owned by a group called Sfanti Group Solutions based in Bucharest, Romania. They have a ton of different dating sites all over the Internet and the one thing they all have in common is that nudity is banned on all of them. It's a shame because there are millions of beautiful people on here, and seeing them naked would make great porn content.
MegaPersonals doesn't have a dedicated app. However, it works very well on mobile devices regardless. It'll function in your mobile browser exactly the same way as your desktop browser, although it can sometimes be a little fiddly to hit the right links (especially with the drop down boxes).
Guys love sites with the word affair in them. However, Escorts Affair doesn't have anything to do with extramarital fun, despite the name. This is a straightforward escort search site with plenty of activity and a vast range of girls from every corner of the world. It's not completely free, but it's a solid all rounder when it comes to sex worker listings.
Backpage Pro is one of the premier escort sites on the web. Just signup with your age, location and email address then dive into a user-friendly platform with an endless choice of available sex workers. Backpage Pro is the closest thing you'll get the original Backpage site, so be sure to check it out if you're an escort lover.
Mega Escorts is one of the oldest and most reputable personals sites around today (it's usually number one in Google searches for escort listings). It's super active, covers everywhere in the world and requires nothing in the way of registration. This site doesn't put a foot wrong so be sure to give it a shot.
MegaPersonals is a solid ads website that delivers on almost every front. It's got a decent system to find local girls, it's got high activity and a vast majority of the ads are completely real. There are very few scammers in sight, and for a free website in this niche, that's a damn good achievement.
While there aren't no massive downsides to MegaPersonals, the only issue is that it exists in a niche that's already overpopulated. There are so many sites out there to help seeking punters get laid that sites like this seem surplus to requirement. However, if you like the simplistic design, this one is well worth putting on your to-visit list.
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There are few things that I enjoy better than a damned good road trip. I fell in love with my husband on a terrifyingly snowy road trip to Iowa and bonded with my dad on a motorcycle tour in Arkansas. I've cultivated an obsession with the transformative American landscape, and one thing is a no-brainer: Nevada's infamous Loneliest Road in America absolutely needs to be a road trip at the very top of the Best Road Trips in America list.
Not having done the trek since I was a kid, I was pumped to travel U.S. 50 from Carson City all the way across the state to Baker en route to the Great Basin National Park Astronomy Festival. Comprised of seven of the eight official Loneliest Road stops, our schedule was an ambitious one and included Carson City, Dayton, Fallon, Austin, Eureka, Ely and Baker…but we were up for it. A little dose of recreation and history with my 6-hour drive? Yes please. With a car full of camping equipment, my trusty gazetteer, and a fabulous little Highway 50 Survival Guide, we launched this mission on a superb September morning.
Stop No. 1 was smack-dab central Carson City at the Visitors Bureau and I must admit, we didn't really know what to expect. Would they be familiar with the Highway 50 Survival Guide? Were they going to laugh at grown-ups playing along with this passport game? To my delight, any preconceived notions about the visitors center were dead wrong. An exuberant welcome and two cha-chunks of a stamp later, we were in hot pursuit of the second on the list: Dayton.
The traffic undoubtedly thinned out as we headed east, and about 20 minutes later we were screeching into Dayton's city limits. With the list of official passport-stamping locations in the back of the booklet, we scoured the main drag, unable to spot the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce. Why are you taking me to an empty parking lot Siri?! We popped into an incontestably adorable quilt shop, asked for directions, and were shocked when we were pointed toward a bank. Take note people, this will save you time! But hey, if this semi-mysterious location is as complicated as it gets, I'd say we're in pretty good shape. With stamp 2 officially in the bag, we loaded up and headed toward Fallon.
In addition to the wildly historic Lincoln Highway we were traversing, a few signs made it obvious we were also on a portion of the intensely important California Trail…double bonus. Nearing Fallon's city limits, we blew by a guy running alongside the road carrying an American flag. A full-sized American flag. Talk about something you don't see every day.
"We're going all the way to Maine!" he blurted out.
Talk about inspiring. If I could walk, bike or run Nevada's portion of U.S. 50 alone, I would call it a success. Getting to see a team of ridiculously fit mega-athletes attempting this feat was pretty amazing.
Another friendly hello and a clunk of a stamp later, we were in and out of Fallon and headed for the next destination. Building momentum on this already-incredible jaunt, we ripped by Sand Mountain…one of Nevada's geological wonders. Although hard to believe, retreating glaciers from another time eventually broke down to hunks of quartz that were washed down the Walker River and blown to the area. Sort of like a gazillion dump trucks deposited beachy, singing sand in the middle of the desert, it's just there.
We forged on before passing by what to me, was an irresistible pit stop. A hodgepodge of rusted cars, weathered fueling stations, sun-stained signs and a wooden building that looked ready to collapse was screaming SYDNEY!!! STOP NOW! I had to get myself in that rusted 1940s vintage car, like immediately. I mean honestly, when do you have a crazy-cool photo op like this staring you in the face?
After getting that out of my system, we had to check out the building…which, contrary to appearance, was a functioning restaurant. One foot in the door and it became clear that we were about to have one of those "only in Nevada" experiences. Thousands of dollar bills stapled to the ceiling and a vibrant wall of military patches dominated my attention before I spotted a Middlegate Monster Burger T-shirt. The lady behind the counter gave us the rundown on this gargantuan mega burger and the T-shirt you could win if you ate one, and it wasn't long before my travel partner was gobbling up this beastly fare. As he gave it all he had to win that flipping t-shirt he had no time limit to finish the meal which was an awesome advantage, but he couldn't leave the building or use the restroom, and had to eat everything except the pepperoncini stem and the wooden spears holding mammoth meal together.
While my comrade wolfed down his colossal burger, I had a few minutes to absorb the immensely rich history of the place. I did know that we were on U.S. 50 and the Lincoln Highway, but what I didn't know the route was formerly used riders on the Pony Express, the horseback mail service in operation from 1860 to 1861…and that's how the very building I was sitting in got its start. I knew Middlegate had to be historic, but dang! A Pony Express station where riders could switch hands seemed too good to be true.
Although we hadn't eaten all day, I watched my buddy's heroic attempt to eat the Middlegate Monster Burger shrivel to a humiliating one. And if he wasn't already bitter with defeat, he had to shamefully spear his napkin in the remaining grub as the official sign of surrender!
Engorged to the point of delirium, we pressed on…after all, we were only about a third of the way. Although overwhelmingly full, talk about one heck of a Nevada experience.
Not far from Middlegate, another Nevada wonder was about to slap us across the face: the iconic Shoe Tree of Middlegate. We'd heard about this before, but you just can't fully comprehend a tree full of shoes until you're standing there beneath its uncanny glory. Word on the street was the flagship pair was flung to the top decades ago after a couple of newlyweds got into a spat on their way home, with the wife so disgusted that she insisted on walking the rest of the way without her man. To beat her at her own game, the husband snatched her shoes and hurled them to the top of the tree. Rumored to have lovingly made up, the couple returned to the monumental tree each year after, commemorating their anniversary with fling of an old pair of shoes.
With such an outlandish tradition, thousands of others have followed suit, making the tree another zany Nevada spectacle. A fun place to get out and burn off the calories!
Now we had to get serious…we still had some major mileage to cover before Baker. With the longest stretch of seclusion in front of us, I slinked into my seat, popped in some tunes, and soon became transfixed with the long stretches of open road before me. As the landscape transformed into the Sagebrush Sea it's so well known as, it took my imagination with it. I could feel myself relaxing and getting into the zone…something I yearn for during those long days cooped up at my desk. While we were in the thick of the hubbub of society just an hour earlier, the 'loneliness' became more and more obvious with each mile traveled. Having always adored rural parts of the state far more than the metro areas, it didn't seem lonely to me. All I could absorb was delicious Nevada solitude, and secretly hoped my cell phone would soon be out of range.
It wasn't long before we were in downtown Austin, surrounded by the magnificent church steeples the town is known. With stamp No. 4 in the bag, there was only one thing holding us back …the mystery T-shirt mural. Having passed this dozens of times on my excursions through Austin, it just always gets my goat. What the heck is this for?? Why is it here? But hey, if we're doing the Loneliest Road experience, we are most certainly taking a picture with the inexplicable T-shirt mural of Austin. Consider that one in the books.
Only about an hour later, we were in the "Friendliest town on the Loneliest Road," aka Eureka. I'm not sure I can confirm or deny their motto, but I can tell you this was the coolest place on the journey to lock down a passport stamp. Our passports were stamped in the Eureka Opera House, this Nevada staple has been masterfully restored to its original 1880s glory…totally phenomenal.
Here, I discovered that the Loneliest Road is an American Defense Highway, meaning it must always remain ploughed and clear for emergencies. This little snippet came at the perfect time…I was starting to get a little worried about what these cozy communities would do during treacherous winter months.
Before long we were back at it and totally crushing this drive! Long, sweeping valleys with dramatic golden light lit up the landscape and dazzled us until we snatched our sixth stamp in Ely. From here, the countryside started to get ultra dramatic…mountains seemed taller and the valleys seemed wider as we made our way into the teeny tiny township of Baker. We had successfully done the entire drive, with seven of the eight stamps in one afternoon! Every road trip comes with innumerable rewards, but it was seriously fun to have something physical like a stamped passport to commemorate it.
Now all that was left was mailing this bad boy in for my official certificate. After a mind-blowingly beautiful long weekend at Great Basin National Park, I was back in Reno and decided I wanted to march my survival guide passport into the office, versus mailing it. A warm welcome by the program coordinator, a customized governor signed certificate and Highway 50 pin later, I was certified!
After many, many incredible American road trips, how does this one stack up? Totally amazing, and anything but lonely. Sure, road- tripping attracts a certain sort of person, but what made this trek special was its own subculture entirely. While I love an awesome roadside inn, quirky diner or bonding with a good sidekick, the Loneliest Road in America was a different animal that delivered circumstantial wonders that you just couldn't fight. A shoe tree, Monster Burger, T-shirt mural, 120-year-old opera house and a mountain of sand?? Pure excellence. As the mack daddy of all road trips, this one is just something you've got to live for yourself.
Trace the route Burners take each August on their journey "Home" and discover how Nevada's DIY spirit, splendorous natural spaces, spunky "why-not" attitude, and unmatched freedom energizes people to come out here and create something magical.


Throughout the life of your animal companion, you've lovingly made every effort to provide them with the best care possible. Now with their passing, the natural desire is to make sure your pet is cared for with dignity and respect, by someone who deeply understands, and respects, the loving bond between you and your animal companion.
We handle all aspects of caring for your animal companion aftercare in-house, in our brand-new facility near downtown Birmingham. Not only will your pet never leave our care, our range of service options is designed to expressly fit your emotional and financial needs.
The loss of an animal companion can be a heart-breaking event. Family Pet Cremation & Burial Services offers a set of resources and heart-felt suggestions that may help ease the strong emotions during the days, weeks and months after your pet dies.
Our state-of-the-art crematory provides our families with a deep sense of security in knowing their animal companion is tended by our experienced staff, and at no time will they leave our watchful care. Families who choose cremation with Family Pet Cremation & Burial Services find comfort in the many choices available as they plan the service with us.
Whether you choose private property burial or cremation, we believe that setting aside a time to remember and honor your companion is the first step toward healthy healing. A special time when all can gather to share in memories and support can make all the difference in the days, weeks, and months following loss.


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These risers are 100% made in house in the USA. They are machined from a solid brass piece and have a rugged tumble finish. They can easily be polished or just ran the way they are. They measure 1.5 from the bottom to the center of the handlebar. Bottom mounting thread is 1/2-13 and top hold down bolts are 1/4-20 which are provided. Should offend most people. Select bar size when ordering.


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Facebook has reportedly readied argument against splitting up Instagram and WhatsApp
The company plans to claim that a potential breakup would hurt app users
Photo (c) Dkart - Getty Images
Facebook appears to have prepared an argument against breaking up Instagram and WhatsApp, according to a document seen by The Wall Street Journal.
The leaked document suggests that if Facebook were to be ordered by the government to split up its services, the company would argue that a breakup would be a "complete nonstarter."
Lawmakers have contended that Facebook wields too much power in the tech ecosystem, which raises concerns about anticompetitive behavior. The FTC is said to be preparing an antitrust lawsuit before the end of the year, and the House could release its antitrust investigation results in October.
Lack of past FTC action
If talks of government regulation eventually become an actual plan, Facebook would reportedly argue that splitting up its services would be difficult to do -- and that doing so could hurt the user experience.
The company may plan to argue that its acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp were approved by the FTC without objections and that it invested a great deal of money in getting the services running as separate-but-integrated systems.
"In the paper, Facebook says unwinding the deals would be nearly impossible to achieve, forcing the company to spend billions of dollars maintaining separate systems, weakening security and harming users' experience," the Wall Street Journal reported.
Facebook would argue that "a 'breakup' of Facebook is thus a complete nonstarter," according to the 14-page document.
From a legal standpoint, Columbia University professor and tech policy expert Tim Wu says Facebook's plan to pin the blame on the FTC for its past approval would be a "weak" defense. Wu said that Facebook's contention that a breakup would be too difficult would also be a flimsy legal argument.
"There is no 'it's too hard' defense," Wu told the Journal.
FTC and 47 states launch antitrust suit against Facebook
DOJ sues Facebook for discriminating against U.S. workers
EU to investigate Instagram over children's privacy concerns
Facebook admits malware defrauded users out of $4 million
FTC antitrust suit against Facebook could come before end of year
FTC expands its antitrust investigation of Big Tech
Forty-seven attorneys general investigating Facebook for possible antitrust violations


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Homerizin
ROUNDTABLE: How do you feel about the Bellator and RIZIN exchanging fighters?
Frank Hyden MMATorch Columnist I like it. It's different and unique, which makes it cool in my opinion. I think it also builds prestige for both organizations. There's Bellator fans who have never heard of […]
King Mo announces retirement
One of the most accomplished careers in MMA history has come to an end. On Monday, Muhammed Lawal better known as "King Mo" announced his retirement from MMA. Lawal cited numerous injuries that brought him […]
LIVE RIZIN 16 REPORT Full results & analysis of Tenshin Nasukawa vs. Martin Blanco, Ayaka Hamasaki vs Jinh Yu Frey
Rizin 16 (Full Report) War Memorial Hall Kobe, Japan *Any bouts without detailed results were contested under Kickboxing rules. Takaki Soya def Namiki Kawahara via first-round KO (punch) (129LBS)* Kan Nakamura def ITTO via first-round […]
Floyd Mayweather Jr. to fight for Rizin this New Year's Eve in Japan
Follow @mikehiscoe In a shocking announcement, the Rizin FF fight promotion out of Japan announced that Floyd Mayweather Jr. will be competing on their New Year's Eve card in Japan. Mayweather will fight Tenshin Nasukawa. […]
LFA 24 & Rizin Fighting World Grand Prix Results
LFA 24 Results LFA 24 was held at the Comerica Theatre in Phoenix, Arizona on Friday night. Here are the results of that card. Main Card Curtis Millender over Matthew Frincu by Knockout (0:38 of […]
SUNDAY NEWS DIGEST 4/16: Demetrious looking at breaking Anderson Silva's record for consecutive title defenses, but against whom? (w/Hiscoe's Analysis)
Demetrious Johnson has pulled even with MMA greatness and he's looking to distance himself from the pack. Johnson was able to tie longtime UFC Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva's record of ten consecutive title defenses with […]
SATURDAY NEWS DIGEST 4/15: Cris Cyborg upset with UFC, Mike Goldberg rumors, Mauro Ranallo, Frank Shamrock (w/Henry's Analysis)
Cris Cyborg asks for release from UFC? Cris Cyborg, perhaps the best female fighter in the world, is frustrated, and she wants the UFC to do something about it. The former Invicta Featherweight Champion tweeted […]
SATURDAY NEWS DIGEST 4/1: King Mo to face Ryan Bader next after big win over Rampage Jackson (w/Cole's Analysis)
Following a hard-fought victory over Rampage Jackson last night at Bellator 175, King Mo Lawal didn't have long to celebrate. Bellator's latest signing, Ryan Bader, was quick to greet him, and it was announced that […]
SUNDAY NEWS DIGEST 1/1: Rousey releases post-loss statement about her future, busy weekend notebook (w/Hiscoe's Analysis)
ROUSEY POST-FIGHT Ronda Rousey was notable in her silence during the buildup to UFC 207 on Friday night. Perhaps nothing spoke louder than her performance, or lack thereof, in her fight with Amanda Nunes that […]
THURSDAY NEWS DIGEST 12/29: Two of the usual suspects failed to make weight at 207 weigh-ins (w/Hiscoe's Analysis)
ROUSEY AND NUNES MAKE WEIGHT, OTHERS DON'T The official and public weigh-ins for UFC 207 both went down on Thursday and, while Ronda Rousey's appearances on the scales were uneventful, two of the usual suspects […]
WEDNESDAY NEWS DIGEST 11/9: Rashad Evans reacts and Kennedy wants new UFC 205 opponent, plus Notebook (w/Hiscoe's Analysis)
RASHAD EVANS OUT, KENNEDY WANTS NEW OPPONENT This Saturday's UFC 205, one of the most loaded lineups in company history, has been fortunate to not have any major changes to the card since it was announced. […]
THURSDAY NEWS DIGEST 10/27: George St. Pierre replies to Michael Bisping challenge, says has talked more with UFC (w/Hiscoe's Analysis)
GSP REPLIES TO TALK OF A BISPING FIGHT No big fights this weekend, but there is an RFA show Friday night on AXS TV. Watch Middleweight Title challenger Chase Waldon in this 2013 fight against […]
Mirko Cro Cop vs. Fedor Emelianenko II? Cro Cop posts Rizin poster suggesting rematch to happen in September
One of the greatest heavyweight fights in MMA history is apparently getting a rematch this September, as Mirko "Cro Cop" Filipovic shared a poster for Rizin's fall World Grand Prix suggesting he'll be fighting Fedor […]
Mirko Cro Cop, Wanderlei Silva to compete in open-weight tournament for Rizin Fighting Federation in Japan
Japan's Rizin Fighting Federation cares not for USADA or commission bans, as both Mirko Cro Cop and Wanderlei Silva will take part in an open weight tournament coming to the organization this fall and winter. […]
Rizin FF still in negotiations with Fedor Emelianenko, says he won't fight in April
Following his return to action in a win over Jaideep Singh on New Year's Eve in Japan, Fedor Emelianenko said he wanted to return in April. He's currently negotiating with Rizin FF for that next […]
Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal wants Fedor Emelianenko bout inside a Bellator cage
Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal picked up a $300,000 payday in Japan last week, winning Rizin's inaugural heavyweight tournament over two events by defeating Brett McDermott, Teodoras Aukstuolis, and Jiri Prochazka. Now, he wants Fedor Emelianenko […]
Fedor Emelianenko says he's targeting April for next fight, negotiating with Rizin FF
Fedor Emelianenko returned to action this week for the first time in three years, but he's only planning a four month layoff before his next bout. In an interview with Russian site rsport.ru after his […]
Rizin FF Results: Random thoughts on Spike's "Breakfast with Fedor" broadcast
The two-event Rizin Fighting Federation debut is being condensed into a tape-delayed three hour broadcast on Spike this morning dubbed "Breakfast with Fedor." We'll be bringing some random thoughts throughout the broadcast, so make sure […]
Rizin FF Results: Shinya Aoki demolishes Kazushi Sakuraba, King Mo advances in tourney on night one
The first of two events from the new Rizin Fighting Federation promotion took place in Japan today, topped by an absolute bludgeoning from Shinya Aoki on Kazushi Sakuraba. Aoki took Sakuraba down immediately, quickly passed […]
Fedor Emelianenko's New Year's Eve opponent finally announced as originally reported Jaideep Singh
After shying away from an initial report two months ago that Fedor Emelianenko would be fighting 28-year-old Jaideep Singh on the Rizin Fighting Federation's New Year's Eve event, the organization announced on Thursday that Singh […]
Tsuyoshi Kohsaka reportedly returns after near decade out to face Fedor Emelianenko on New Year's Eve
As if Ken Shamrock-Royce Gracie 21-years-later wasn't enough news for fans late Friday night, AXS TV's Inside MMA program reported that Fedor Emelianenko's New Year's Eve opponent is set, and it will be a rubber […]
"King Mo" Lawal to take part in Rizin light heavyweight grand prix on Spike; Gabi Garcia-Lei'D Tapa announced
A pair of new announcements were made on Friday night for the New Year's Eve event from the new Japanese promotion Rizin, with Nobuyuki Sakakibara back in a Bellator cage to announce the fight between […]
Shawn Jordan now a free agent after UFC 192 loss, wants to fight Fedor Emelianenko
Heavyweight Shawn Jordan is a free agent after finishing out his UFC contract earlier this month at UFC 192, according to a report from MMAJunkie.com, and he's angling for a fight with Fedor Emelianenko. Jordan […]
Fedor Emelianenko's former manager: Reported Jaideep Singh bout not an appropriate matchup, Rizin FF perhaps a "shady enterprise"
Fedor Emelianenko is taking part in the brand new Rizin Fighting Federation events this December, but his former manager is already speaking out against the new promotion from former Pride boss Nobuyuki Sakakibara. In comments […]


Finally it worked out! This year we have got a litter of Colombian Pastell and Hyperpastell Boas. It's a perfect litter of lusty and gorgeous looking specimens.
We made some photos but ask you to take into consideration that like in all true boa constrictors the stunning color of the Hyperpastell Colombians will not fully develope before the second or third year of life.
We have added a photo of a hyperpastell boa (same bloodline) captive born in 2008 in order that you get an idea how the babies will shape up.
It remains to be mentioned that everybody who has seen our Hyperpastell Colombian boas in the flesh told us that they are even more beautiful as in the photos and the videos.
We accept orders as of now.
Here is a photo of a Colombian Hyperpastell boa captive born 2008 in order that you get an idea how the babies will shape up.
And: Yes, this is the real colour of our Hyperpastell boas!
In order to reduce our breeding stock we sell this adult pair of Pastell Boa c. imperator from Colombia.
There is a significant colour potential in the colombian Hyperpastelle boas, as you can see in this photo. Unfortunately, all of these stunners are already sold. However, even though the animals who are still for sale are not quite as colourful, they have nevertheless the same genetic endowments and can produce "elite - specimens" like in the photo above. Your advantage: The Hyperpastell Colombians who are still for sale are not as expensive as the stunners have been.


text:
Station Fosaan by Dee Garretson
April 27, 2017 April 14, 2017 / Sarah	/ Leave a comment
Month9Books, 2017.
The scientists recruited to go to Fosaan were promised a tropical paradise for their families to live in, but the truth is the planet smells of sulfur, the ocean is incredibly salty, and the jungle is full of incredibly dangerous animals. Still, Quinn's not too bothered by those things, since there are so many cool animals to study and document. He's curious about the native Fosaanians, too, but he's never really had contact with them, that is, until he finds one stealing food from his kitchen. She's beautiful and there's so much she could tell him about her culture and the planet. Quinn's glad to help her out by giving her food if it will encourage her to stick around and talk to him.
Unfortunately, there's no time for the teens to get to know one another before the planet's thrown into crisis. The scientists are all in orbit in the labs, the kids are alone on the planet, and communications are down. Something is very wrong and it's going to be up to Quinn and his new friend to lead the way to a solution.
In Station Fosaan, Dee Garretson has given reader an engrossing book with appealing characters. They're typical teens in a very atypical setting. Station Fosaan has enough potential romance to appeal to the romantically inclined and enough danger and action to appeal to the most seasoned gamer. Plus, for readers that like to stick with their favorite characters for a while, this is the first book in the Torch World series, so we haven't seen the last of Quinn and Mira. Stay tuned!
Hit the Ground Running by Mark Burley
Blue Moon Publishers, 2017.
Eric hasn't talked much with his family since his parents suddenly moved from San Francisco to British Columbia—he was just too mad about the changes they forced him to make. He hasn't bothered to get to know the other students at his boarding school, either. That would seem too much like acquiescing, so he spends his free time outdoors avoiding the other students and practicing the parkour he loves. But when Eric gets a video message from his brother, he learns that their parents have been taken and his brother's on the run, so Eric's forced to come out of his isolation to find them.
Before long, Eric has cobbled-together an action team and they're off to solve the kidnappings of Eric's family, but before he's even had a chance to become the hunter, Eric finds that he's actually the hunted. He'll need his extensive knowledge and contacts from traveling the world with his anthropologist parents, his skill at parkour, and a handful of talented friends to survive this little adventure.
I chose this book because I was intrigued by the idea of a YA parkour thriller, and it didn't disappoint. Eric is a sympathetic and engaging character. As the title suggests, Hit the Ground Running is fast-paced, but unlike some thrillers, the plot is easy to follow. The characters may be moving constantly, but the story allows readers to get to know them, their flaws, and their motivations. There's parkour, science, cool tech, and even a paranormal element. Two more books are in the works to complete the series, and I'm looking forward to reading them.
Happy Book Birthday to Hit the Ground Running!
Kitty Hawk and the Curse of the Yukon Gold by Iain Reading
April 20, 2017 April 7, 2017 / Sarah	/ Leave a comment
Kitty Hawk's favorite place in the world is in her pontoon plane flying over the earth. She's been flying with her dad since she was tiny, but the summer after high school Kitty makes a plan to leave her hometown of Tofino on Vancouver Island and head up to Alaska. There she'll spend the summer using her plane and specially mounted cameras to observe humpback whales in their feeding grounds.
In Juneau Kitty learns a lot about the whales and their habits, and she also learns about Alaska's gold rush history. Before long, Kitty's caught up in a modern news story of a gold robbery–so caught up, in fact, that she just might be heading into trouble, but that trouble might just turn into the adventure of her life.
Kitty Hawk and the Curse of the Yukon Gold begins with not one but two prefaces. Each presents a different cliffhanger that will occur at some point in Kitty's future. I found this confusing. Once through the prefaces, this action-packed adventure has a decidedly slow start which I fear is likely to discourage young readers. In addition Kitty Hawk's practically perfectness can be annoying at times. That said, after about chapter nine I read more enthusiastically through to the book's conclusion.
Billed as a young adult book, I'd recommend Kitty Hawk and the Curse of the Yukon Gold for upper-middle-grade readers. It's clean and young-feeling, and I think Kitty's idealism will appeal more to tween readers than to those in high school. It's a travelogue as well as an adventure story, so readers who are eager to learn about different places all over the world will likely embrace this and the other Kitty Hawk stories in the series.
The Falconer by Elizabeth May
Chronicle Books, 2014
Kam is not your ordinary Victorian debutante. She was quite an eligible catch in Edinburgh society—that is until the grisly murder of her mother. Now Kam lives under dual shadows of pity and suspicion. But Kam cares little about how others see her—much less than she once would have—for with her mother's murder she discovered another world, a world that changed her life. Now Kam spends her evenings battling and killing faeries, and her greatest challenge is how to hide her new badass self in the façade of the demure debutante she once was.
Ironically, the only ones who know Kam for her new faerie-slaying self are her partner and trainer, an uber-powerful faerie and the pixie who inhabits her closet, fixes her clothes, and drinks all the honey he can get his little hands on. Soon, Kam's going to have to get beyond her one-faerie-a-night killing spree because the most powerful faeries, the ones that have been safely locked away for thousands of years, are about to get free, and if Kam doesn't stop them, they'll be coming for her and for everything she loves best.
I requested this book from NetGalley because the title led me to believe I'd be delving into a world of medieval bird wielders. Well, not so much, but I certainly was not disappointed. A strong heroine is exactly what appeals to me in a Victorian setting. I much prefer the young woman whose main concern is hiding her weapons in her ball gown than the one who's agonizing about how to fill her dance card. The steam punk elements are great fun to contemplate, and the main characters' histories and personalities are complicated enough to be mused over in the times one must stop reading to attend to real-world responsibilities.
I went from this book straight to The Vanishing Throne, the second book in the series which did not disappoint. The Fallen Kingdom, the third book in the series, is out in June. I've got the ARC waiting in my reader, and I'm eagerly awaiting the moment that it rises to the top of my to be read list!


text:
Quagga and Zebra Mussels Infestation Prevention Grant Program
California Department of Parks and Recreation. Division of Boating and Waterways.
As part of its mission, the Division of Boating and Waterways manages the Quagga and Zebra Mussel Infestation Prevention Grant Program, which supports preventative plans that help protect California's reservoirs from a dreissenid mussel infestation. California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) will accept applications for the 2021 Quagga and Zebra Mussel Infestation Prevention Grant Program: March 22, 2021 - April 30, 2021, subject to available funds.
Minimum Eligibility Requirements:
Grant applicant must own/manage any aspect of the water in a reservoir where recreational activities are permitted; Grant applicant must demonstrate that the reservoir is uninfested with dreissenid mussels; and the reservoir must be open to the public.


text:
package com.sedc.collectors.yahoo.historical;

import com.sedc.collectors.yahoo.util.YahooResourceHelper;
import com.sedc.collectors.yahoo.util.YahooJsonReader;
import com.sedc.managers.SymbolManager;
import org.hibernate.Session;
import org.hibernate.SessionFactory;
import org.junit.Assert;
import org.junit.Before;
import org.junit.Test;
import org.junit.runner.RunWith;
import org.springframework.batch.core.BatchStatus;
import org.springframework.batch.core.Job;
import org.springframework.batch.core.JobExecution;
import org.springframework.batch.core.JobParameters;
import org.springframework.batch.core.launch.JobLauncher;
import org.springframework.beans.factory.annotation.Autowired;
import org.springframework.core.io.UrlResource;
import org.springframework.test.context.ContextConfiguration;
import org.springframework.test.context.junit4.SpringJUnit4ClassRunner;

import java.math.BigInteger;
import java.time.LocalDate;
import java.util.List;

@RunWith(SpringJUnit4ClassRunner.class)
@ContextConfiguration("/spring/batch/jobs/yahoo-historical-load-hibernate-job-test.xml")
public class YahooHistoricalHibernateTest {

    private static final int EXPECTED_COUNT = 215;

    @Autowired
    private JobLauncher jobLauncher;

    @Autowired
    private Job job;

    @Autowired
    private YahooJsonReader reader;

    @Autowired
    private SymbolManager symbolManager;

    @Autowired
    private SessionFactory sessionFactory;

    @Before
    public void setUp() throws Exception {
        List<String> symbols = symbolManager.getStringSymbolsBySource("FINAM_HISTORY");

        LocalDate startDate = LocalDate.now().minusMonths(1);
        LocalDate endDate = LocalDate.now();

        UrlResource resource = YahooResourceHelper.getHistoricalDataResource(symbols, startDate, endDate);
        reader.setResource(resource);
    }

    @Test
    public void test() throws Exception {
        JobExecution execution = jobLauncher.run(job, new JobParameters());

        BatchStatus status = execution.getStatus();
        Assert.assertTrue(BatchStatus.COMPLETED.equals(status));

        List<Throwable> allFailureExceptions = execution.getAllFailureExceptions();
        if (!allFailureExceptions.isEmpty()) {
            for (Throwable t : allFailureExceptions) {
                System.err.println(t);
            }
        }
        Assert.assertTrue(allFailureExceptions.isEmpty());

        Session session = sessionFactory.openSession();
        BigInteger count = (BigInteger) session.createSQLQuery("SELECT count(1) FROM STAGE_YAHOO_HISTORICAL").uniqueResult();
        session.close();
        Assert.assertTrue(count.intValue() == EXPECTED_COUNT);
    }
}


NEW! Policy Lab LinkedIn Group open to all interested stakeholders since 04/05/2028 In order to maintain the Policy Lab operative after the end of the project (October 2018), this group is now open to all the interested stakeholders.
The SCREEN approach is based on the identification and implementation of operational synergies between investments in research and innovation under Horizon 2020, the Structural Funds and the European Investment Funds.
2)	ensure regular exchange of information among participants so that state of the art knowledge and existing initiatives are taken into account during the implementation of the project.
Screen project also includes an option to make permanent the Policy Lab even after the end of the activities provided for in the Grant Agreement; a specific deliverable (Exploitation Plan) will indicate the various possible solutions.
Memorandum of Understanding promotional video - please share it!!
- Agenda and briefing document available through the hyperlink on the left side of this page.
June 2017-The Policy Lab discussion group on LinkedIn has been be established! It is restricted to the participants only, but the main findings will be published on this web page.


Tahina Rahary (Madagascar) is a virtuoso guitarist based in Portugal, where he is renowned for his original approach in blending the music of Madagascar with Jazz.
Brought up in a musical family, Tahina brings to life ancient melodies and complex rhythms making contemporary jazz out of his rich Malagasy musical culture. His tremendous chops and versatility made him a frequent presence in stages around the country but also abroad, playing with Jorge Palma, Jorge Fernando, Sara Tavares, Filipe Mukenga, Marc Perrenoud and Jacques Panicet.
In MeerJazz Café, Tahina will be playing with the brilliant bassplayer Yuri Daniel (Brasil, 1966) who recently played with the Jan Garbarek Group.
Luís Agostinho on keyboard and Louie Russo on drums, are very talented musicians living in the Caldas da Rainha area, and will complete this amazing quartet.
Don't miss this jazzy event, in the afternoon of Sunday 17 March 2013, 4 to 7 pm, in the Lisbonense Bar of the Sana Silver Coast Hotel in Caldas da Rainha.
Free entrance, no reservations, informal ambiance.


text:
IDEAS LAB
Meet the Editorial Board of the USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
David D. Haynes
The Editorial Board at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin is responsible for all editorials that appear in our 11 publications.
Contact Ideas Lab Editor David D. Haynes at david.haynes@jrn.com.
Want to send us a Letter to the Editor?
Email: jsedit@jrn.com (for Milwaukee Journal Sentinel only).
Why we publish editorials:We believe an independent voice for Wisconsin helps hold the powerful to account
Here are the members of our state board:
Dave, the editor of the Ideas Lab, leads the Journal Sentinel and USA TODAY-Wisconsin Editorial Board. Dave has spent much of his career at the Journal Sentinel, joining the organization in 1994 as the Milwaukee Sentinel's Monday Business editor after working for newspapers in Indiana and Massachusetts. While working in Indiana in 1983, Dave was part of a staff that won a Pulitzer Prize for coverage of a devastating flood. Before before joining the Editorial Board in 2006, Dave served as business editor and education editor. He became editor of the opinion pages in 2011. In 2017, Dave created the Ideas Lab, a blend of solutions-focused reporting and commentary that focuses on evidence-based best practices to solve problems. He also writes occasional opinion columns under his own name.
James E. Causey
A lifelong Milwaukee resident, James started working at the Milwaukee Sentinel at 15 as a high school intern in 1986. He worked as a news reporter, business reporter and assistant business editor before joining the Journal Sentinel's editorial board in 2008, after spending a year at Harvard University as a Nieman Fellow. In recent years, James has focused on in-depth projects about problems facing Milwaukee. His award-winning work includes a look at poverty and racism through the eyes of his third grade class ("What Happened to Us"), an in-depth examination of the impact of open housing marches a half century ago ("50-Year Ache"); the impact of a community garden on young Black boys ("Cultivating a Community"); and a yearlong investigation into solutions for the often racially charged problems that hold back many people of color in Milwaukee ("Milwaukee's Promise"). James also writes opinion columns for the Ideas Lab under his own name.
James Fitzhenry
Jim is executive editor of USA TODAY NETWORK-Central Wisconsin, serving communities in the northeastern and central part of the state. Prior to that role, he served as the lead editor of a team that produced the nationally recognized "Kids in Crisis" series, including holding 42 town halls in communities across the state raising awareness about the teen suicide crisis. He helped conceive the "You're Not Alone" documentary on the youth mental health crisis, which has aired multiple times on public television and been given free of charge to dozens of schools around the country. He has deep knowledge of key issues facing the Fox Valley and Central Wisconsin, having spent 20 years at the Oshkosh Northwestern serving as editor, managing editor, and editorial page editor. A Marquette University graduate, he started his career as a reporter in St. Joseph, Mo.
Chelsey Lewis
Chelsey has been a features writer for the Journal Sentinel since 2012, covering travel and outdoor activities. Chelsey grew up camping, hiking and biking all over Wisconsin, from her hometown of Pewaukee to a family cabin in the Northwoods. She has been writing about the places that make Wisconsin special since 2009, including a summer spent visiting every one of Wisconsin's 72 counties. She is a former writer and editor for Wisconsin Trails magazine. She has a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She refrains from discussions about any issues that cross into her features writing beat.
Jill Williams
Jill joined the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel staff in 2000 and is now deputy editor for Features and Lifestyle content for the Journal Sentinel and USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin. She has been a reporter and editor in New Jersey and Philadelphia covering news and features. As a senior leader at the Journal Sentinel, she also works to ensure the newsroom fulfills its commitment to culturally inclusive coverage. For many years, she has been responsible for launching new products and concepts aimed at audience growth and has served as a newsroom liaison to the marketing and advertising departments. She is a graduate of the Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism and was a McCormick Fellow in the Northwestern Kellogg School of Management Advanced Executive Program. Jill has served on the editorial board in recent years and recuses herself from discussion about editorials regarding any issues covered by the Features and Lifestyle team.
George Stanley
George is editor of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and regional editor of the USA TODAY Network-Wisconsin. Before becoming editor in 2015, George was managing editor in charge of news operations, a post he had held since since 1997. As managing editor, he built the Journal Sentinel's project journalism process. The newspaper's work has had tremendous community impact while receiving virtually every major national journalism award, including nine Pulitzer Prize finalists and three Pulitzer Prize winners. Before becoming managing editor, George was business editor of the Journal Sentinel and the Milwaukee Sentinel. He joined the Sentinel as a reporter in 1989 after working as outdoors editor and environmental reporter at the Wichita Eagle, as a writer for Ducks Unlimited magazine, and as a reporter and editor for the Lake Geneva Regional News. He grew up in Green Bay and graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He is currently president of the national News Leaders Association.


The Israeli Cleantech sector is growing fast both in size and reputation.
Israel is being described as the hotbed of cleantech entrepreneurship. According to the 2014 Global Cleantech Innovation Index, the country has the most potential to produce and commercialize entrepreneurial cleantech start-up companies.
The report states that the country generates the culture, education, 'chutzpah', as well as survival instincts needed to harvest innovation in cleantech - an industry based on "environmentally friendly" technologies that make use of recycling and renewable energy and reduce pollution.
In the past three years, Israel had 19 cleantech companies voted onto the shortlist of the Global Cleantech 100 index. Israel was ranked first among 40 countries for the innovation of its industrial developments and the large number of its start-up companies. The index report says Israel has made accomplishments despite its small domestic market and sensitive geopolitical situation.
Founding partner of Israel Cleantech Ventures (ICV), Jack Levy, says that per capita, Israel has the most start-ups, particularly in cleantech. Although Israel is 60-plus years old, the country's private sector is really young. He says that the economic sector's dynamism comes from the fact that its roots are in the 1980s and 1990s. He adds that military experiences teach young Israeli's responsibility and gives them a "can-do" attitude. Israel also has a risk-taking culture. Another explanation for Israel's cleantech is its shortage of natural resources -- water, land, oil. For this reason, resources have to be used efficiently.
Every year Cleantech Group and the World Wildlife Fund publish the global cleantech index, based on innovation and the ability to commercialize various technologies.
The cleantech index defines cleantech industry as based on "getting more from less" and profitably. It means using less raw materials, water and energy, but also dealing with soil pollution and sewage treatment, food production, irrigation and fertilization.
Until recently, the main development of cleantech was in the energy field, but the industry has expanded to include a spectrum of environmental issues. Within a few years the industry's scope of activity is expected to involve hundreds of billions of dollars.
In the coming years the ability to implement Israel's cleantech technologies will be tested both in the world and domestic markets. Israel already has an association to advance the use of renewable energies and a special Knesset committee has recently been set up for this purpose, headed by MK Hanna Swaid (Hadash).
In our upcoming webinar, Israeli Cleantech - Smart solutions to global challenges, Adi Bokobza, Business Development Manager at the Israel Export Institute Cleantech Sector, will discuss the Institute's aims and the opportunities that trade relations with Israel can offer. In addition to this, there will be a case study where two success stories will be heard from two member companies of the institute. Mr Elad Shaviv, CEO of the Israeli Smart Energy Association, will also be discussing the challenges that the smart energy industry faces globally, and how Israeli technologies can assist to overcome them.
Register now to discover the opportunities available to you from Israel, the 'start-up nation', and put your questions to the experts during our live question and answer slot.
The Israel Export Institute, along with a number of their associated companies, will also be attending the European Utility Week.


text:
<?php

namespace Distill\Method\Command;

use Distill\Format;

/**
 * Extracts files from gzip archives.
 *
 * @author Raul Fraile <raulfraile@gmail.com>
 */
class GnuGzip extends AbstractCommandMethod
{
    /**
     * {@inheritdoc}
     */
    public function extract($file, $target, Format\FormatInterface $format)
    {
        $this->checkSupport($format);

        $command = sprintf("gzip -d -c %s >> %s", escapeshellarg($file), escapeshellarg($target));

        $exitCode = $this->executeCommand($command);

        return $this->isExitCodeSuccessful($exitCode);
    }

    /**
     * {@inheritdoc}
     */
    public function isSupported()
    {
        if (null === $this->supported) {
            $this->supported = $this->existsCommand('gzip');
        }

        return $this->supported;
    }

    /**
     * {@inheritdoc}
     */
    public static function getClass()
    {
        return get_class();
    }

    public function isFormatSupported(Format\FormatInterface $format = null)
    {
        return $format instanceof Format\Gz;
    }
}


Available in two scents. Available in blue, yellow. Plain stock. Minimum quantity: 250.
Must have for every home. Exclusive scented candle with light fragrance of white linen or sandalwood. Burn time of candle approximately 30 hours. Presented in seasons gift box. Glass. Minimum quantity: 50.
Roll on bottle pulse point. Also available in peppermint or grapefruit & ginger. British made. Minimum quantity: 250.


Haven't found the right listing? There are 17 other Plumbing in West Orange. Click here!
Recchia Plumbing & Heating can be found at 100 Winding Way . The following is offered: Plumbing . In West Orange there are 17 other Plumbing. An overview can be found here.
Keywords Drain Cleaning, Heating, Plumbing Installation, Plumbing Repairs, Sump Pumps.


Fall has arrived, but if you live in a communal space, there's one sandal you should keep wearing: The shower flip flop.
Public showers, thanks to their generally moist nature, are breeding grounds for biofilms—slimy patches where multiple groups of microorganisms stick together. Rinsing or even using soap and water will not kill the organisms living inside; doing so will only wash them away. Only the mechanical action of a scrub brush can eliminate potential hazards caused by biofilms, said Dr. Philip M. Tierno Jr., professor of Microbiology & Pathology at New York University's School of Medicine.
A public shower is an optimal place for the transmission of indirect infections, thanks to their being so amenable to hard-to-eradicate biofilms. Tierno said that wearing flip flops to, from, and in the shower will help avoid infections being transmitted through feet.
"People don't think that they have a contusion or lesion or crack in their skin. But many people have dried skin, and they do have the ability for an organism to gain access or colonize their foot and therefore can spread elsewhere in the body,'' he said.
When people wash themselves in the shower using soap and water, potentially infectious organisms can be sloughed off their skin and collect into biofilms. Not wearing shower flip flops makes them likely to be transmitted to your feet; from there, they can migrate to other parts of the body.
"Just because it's on your feet doesn't mean that an organism won't find its way elsewhere in your body,'' Tierno said. It's easy to touch your feet as you put on your socks, your underwear or your pants, he said.
Not everyone who might go barefoot in the shower will come down with an infection, Tierno said, but openings and abrasions on the skin increase the chance of infections being transferred into the body.
Foot-protecting rubber might make you feel dorky, but there are a couple of things more embarrassing. Like dermatophytes (athlete's foot fungus) and MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), both of which can be transmitted through organisms present in biofilms. The latter is resistant to some antibiotics, and can be treated through a healthcare professional draining the infection; it has been known to kill football players who share uniforms and other equipment. Athlete's foot is easily treatable with over-the-counter antifungal powders or creams.
Tierno recommends cleaning flip flops with bleach or another disinfectant regularly. He urges people to put them in a plastic bag before putting them into a tub or basin where you can use some sort of disinfectant solution.
Walking in wet flip flops might be awkward and slippery, but compared to the possibility of spraying your feet with anitfungal powder or getting an infection drained, it's not too terrible of a tradeoff.


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Visa Policy
Safety in Oman - All You Ne...
Safety in Oman - All You Need to Know Before Visiting The Gulf Country
The Sultanate of Oman boasts of natural wonders and rich cultural heritage that attract tourists from around the world. It is known in the Middle East for its modern outlook, much like the neighbouring United Arab Emirates, combined with an authentic charm rooted in tradition. However, tourists continue to have reservations about safety in Oman while travelling to countries in the Middle East. While the wave of violence borne from the Arab Spring has drastically reduced since 2010, some countries such as Yemen and Syria still carry precautionary warnings for travel. Although Oman is located in this turbulent area, it is one of the few countries in the region that remain welcoming of Western culture.
Safety in Oman in Public Places
Due to Oman's location, there are slight degrees of political tension. Unlike other countries in the Middle East, the Omanis haven't protested for a new political regime, rather improvements in living conditions and creation of more jobs. There have been protests in the country, but most of them have been peaceful and haven't affected the safety in Oman. Nevertheless, it is probably a good idea to avoid large demonstrations of any sort here, especially in border areas which can be dicey. There have been reports of harassment and arrests of dissenting voices, especially as an amendment in the penal code in 2011 allowed for the arrest and detainment of individuals without an arrest warrant. Keep an eye out for public gatherings, especially during mid-day.
For the most part, the country is safe for travellers. Acceptance and tolerance are the pillars of Islam, and thus, most Omanis are approachable and pleasant. In fact, the country received a zero rating on the Global Terrorism Index in 2013 and 2015 indicating high levels of safety. Crime rates are low, although the occasional instance of theft and opportunistic burglary like bag snatchy are reported. As with any country, it's best to stay alert. Be responsible for your belongings and don't leave them unattended.
Social Precautions To Take When in Oman
The Omanis are friendly people who are proud of their country's rapid progress in the last four decades. Once an underdeveloped nation in the 1970s that had little contact with the outside world, it now boasts of a high-income economy due to tourism and trade. Much of this is attributed to the Sultan Sayyid Qaboos bin Said Al Said. Any criticism against him, even jokingly, is considered taboo. Maintaining a good reputation is significant here and it is important to keep in mind while interacting with the locals. It is best to avoid making any remarks about the country, the government or local officials. Similarly, displays of anger such as gesturing impatiently or loud arguments are not well-received. The Omanis are calm people, and showing anger publicly could be grounds for filing a complaint. Although Oman is a Muslim country, it doesn't mean that alcohol isn't available in the country; hotel establishments with liquor licenses such as the Shangri-La, InterContinental and Grand Hyatt serve alcohol to patrons. Moreover, liquor licenses can be obtained from the Royal Oman Police. The legal drinking age in the country is 21 years old. Keep in mind that public intoxication, however, is illegal. During the month of Ramadan, these privileges are curtailed. Eating, drinking, smoking, and playing loud music in public spaces during daylight is forbidden. Anyone who is caught breaking this law can be arrested.
Aside from this, the locals are very warm and friendly and this has brought about a huge factor of safety in Oman for tourists. They are likely to stare, but it comes from a place of fascination and not insult. It isn't uncommon for taxi drivers or tour guides to strike up a conversation or, if they like your company, invite you home to meet their families. They take great pride in hosting you. If you do take them up on their kind offer, keep in mind that it is considered rude to arrive without a gift of some sort, and remember to take off your shoes before entering the house.
Inoffensive Attire In Oman
It is advisable to dress modestly to avoid hurting the sentiments of the local people. In Oman, it's impolite to wear skimpy outfits in public, regardless of gender. Women should ideally cover their chest, thighs, midriff and shoulders, although they do not need to cover their heads unless they are about to enter a mosque. Men should avoid shorts and sleeveless t-shirts. Ripped clothing and slogan t-shirts with provocative slogans or images should probably be avoided.
Although Oman has an abundance of beautiful beaches, this dress code extends to swimwear as well. While two-piece swimsuits can be worn in private beaches, it's best to cover up as soon as you leave the swimming area. In public beaches, it is best to wear full-length swimming outfits. Bikinis, speedos, and revealing swimwear shouldn't be worn.
Road Safety in Oman
Travelling by road is the most common mode of transport and Oman has a variety of highways along its cities and desert areas. But there are safety hazards involved, for drivers are known to be rash and ignore road rules. In some parts of the country, roads are in poor condition. Road accident rates are quite high in the country compared to the population. Also, keep an eye out for camels as they are known to stray onto roads.
There are long stretches of roads in the desert areas with no help in sight. It's best to keep spare tires and other supplies on hand in case of emergencies. Always keep extra bottles of water in the car for these instances, especially when exploring the desert areas. Oman, like many countries in the Middle East, is prone to flash floods. It's especially dangerous to be in these abandoned stretches during that time. In case of rain, head to the high ground and follow the advice of local authorities. Many travellers have gotten lost in the desert during these rains, some even drowning from high levels of water.
Safety Around Women and Couples in Oman
Female travellers have a great deal of freedom in Oman. However, as an interaction between the genders is relatively minimal, simple interactions with locals can be misinterpreted. Outside of urban areas like Muscat and Salalah, it is advisable to not smile or stay too close to the opposite gender as this can be deemed flirtatious behaviour. In public transport, it is better to avoid sitting next to male co-passengers.
While taking photographs with locals, it's important to ask their permission first. This is especially true for Omani women who might be upset at being photographed without their consent. This extends to physical touch. If a local does not offer first, it's better to avoid it. Despite its flexibility to tourists, Oman is relatively conservative with regard to relationships. Couples should minimize public displays of affection to avoid catching attention as this kind of behaviour is considered offensive. It is illegal to live together or share a hotel room with a member of the opposite sex who is not a spouse or relative, though the more posh hotels turn a blind eye to this.
Safety in Oman for LGBTQ Travellers
As with all countries in the Middle East, the Omani government does not condone LGBT activities. Homosexuality is illegal here. According to Article 33 of the Omani Penal Code, erotic acts and relationships between individuals of the same sex are a punishable offence of six months to three years in jail.
But, unlike its neighbours, Oman is more tolerable. Unless individuals display outright homosexual behaviour or announce it, they probably won't be bothered during their travels. Unlike unmarried heterosexual couples, they can easily rent hotel rooms in the country. There is an underground scene for the LGBTQ community which is discreet and low-key. Although some might disagree with the belief and traditional nature of Oman, it is we who are being allowed into their country and culture. So, it is important to respect their wishes and sentiments. For travellers and locals too, the safety in man is pretty good. As long as these basic guidelines are followed, it should be a hassle-free trip for all involved!
This post was published by Rhea Nath
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Just outside the old walls of San Quirico D'Orcia an apartment on the ground floor with a large garden. Fully renovated, Tuscan beamed ceilings.
San Quirico d'Orcia Just outside the old city walls an apartment of 650 sqft (60 sqm) on the ground floor with a spacious garden. Private entrance with portico from the large private garden leads to the living room with kitchenette and utility room, two double bedrooms, bathroom with window. The garden covers over 2150 sqft (200 sqm). The apartment is fully renovated with some traditional details like beamed ceilings, ideal as the main residence or as a holiday home.


Thanks to kind donations, St Bedes Palliative Care Unit at the QE Hospital has unveiled a brand new, modern and relaxing space for relatives.
The new Room for You offers a calm, homely and non-clinical environment for families. It has been designed for visitors to take time out to reflect– or simply make a drink or snack – helping to make the time spent at St Bedes, which can be difficult, more comfortable.


What cup of coffee wouldn't look better sitting on this elegant Eames table? Charles and Ray Eames applied the same breakthrough technology that resulted in their famous moulded plywood chairs to create this simple, lightweight, imaginative table.
Moulded plywood table has natural face veneers and hardwood inner plies. It has a 5-ply, 865mm -diameter top and an 8-ply 4-legbase.


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South Korea's forthcoming auto fuel efficiency standards: toughest in the world?
Home Newsletters In Focus South Korea's forthcoming auto fuel efficiency standards: toughest in the world?
South Korea's efforts to go green have hit a roadblock. The adoption of a carbon emission trading bill proposed by President Lee Myung-bak has been delayed despite it being backed by the ruling and opposition parties in a committee vote on February 8.
The bill was – at one point – expected to be passed by lawmakers by early 2012. However, in a seating earlier this year, the National Assembly's Legislative and Judiciary Committee put off the vote, with the likelihood of a revisit in April when the assembly reconvenes.
The scheme will cover about 60 percent of the greenhouse gas emissions from Asia's fourth largest economy. The cap-and-trade set-up was to take effect in 2015, having been delayed several years from the originally planned implementation date because of pressure from industry. Industry bodies are concerned that the proposed carbon trading system will increase the costs of domestic companies and make them less competitive than rivals from countries without charges on carbon emissions.
At first glance, it might look like transportation will get off relatively easy in the revised emission regulations, for the most part. Chan Jong Park, the Korean representative of the International Emissions Trading Association, a Geneva-based non-profit that seeks to establish a functional international emissions trading framework, noted that some big logistics and transport companies, such as those with a fleet of more than 100 trucks, are likely to be included in the trading scheme.
But most of the vehicles on the road, new or old, will be excluded, largely for economic reasons. "It is very hard and costly to monitor, report, and verify the actual emissions of individual-owned cars and trucks," said Park.
However, the cap-and-trade system is not the entire picture. There is also the Target Management System, which is due to be introduced this year in preparation for the coming cap-and-trade program. The Target Management System is likely to set the baseline for the follow-on scheme, Park said.
The South Korean government has in recent times set emission reduction targets for each of the seven sectors of the economy: transportation, power, industry, buildings, public sector, agriculture and waste. The overall goal is a 30 percent cut in carbon emissions by 2020. However, that requirement was not spread evenly across all areas of the economy.
"The transport sector has been given the toughest 2020 target relative to other sectors, with a required 34.3 percent cut in emissions below business-as-usual level," said Park.
In acknowledgment of how challenging this might prove to be, South Korea's Transport Ministry announced a 10-year plan at the same time that is designed to produce the required savings. The mix includes improvements to public transport, the establishment of a green logistics system and the development of eco-friendly transport and logistics technologies.
For cars, the 2015 minimum fuel efficiency requirement is 17 kilometer per liter (kpl), which has to be met while producing less than 140 grams per kilometer (g/km) of greenhouse gases. A straight translation of the effect of a 34 percent reduction would imply greenhouse gas emissions of slightly more than 90 g/km and a fuel efficiency of nearly 26 kpl.
By way of comparison, regulations in the United States currently call for an average passenger car fuel efficiency of 11.7 kpl, with a pending proposal to double that to 23.2 kpl by 2025. Current Japanese standards call for just under 15 kpl, while 2008 Chinese regulations stipulate 17.5 kpl. Thus, South Korea could end up with some of the highest fuel efficiency standards in the world.
That could have an impact on any country trying to crack South Korea's automotive market via a significant number of imports, said Park. "All imported cars should follow the safety and environment standards of the country that imports those cars. That means American cars imported to Korea should follow Korean standards and vice versa."
Hitting those future fuel efficiency numbers could be a tall order and the local automotive industry is tackling the problem through the application of technology. For example, the Hyundai Motor Company, South Korea's largest automaker, showcased some advanced ideas at the 2011 Seoul Motor Show. The company's Blue Square concept car is powered by a fuel cell electric system that delivers a stack power of 90 kilowatts and fuel economy of 34.9 kpl.
Of more recent interest to the local market was Hyundai's introduction of its first gasoline hybrid model. The new car is a full parallel hybrid system, or one in which the gasoline-powered engine and the electric motor work alongside each other. The car also has lithium-ion polymer batteries, an advanced technology that is only now making its way into hybrid vehicles.
Hyundai also has developed a zero-emission electric bus in house. Plans call for a test fleet of these vehicles to be operated in some metropolitan bus routes last year, with mass production slated for 2013. Such efforts may pay off in more ways than just reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
South Korea has seen the number of cars on the road explode and the pollutants in the air soar, according to the Ministry of Environment. The country had more than 12 million registered cars in 2000 and that number grew to 16.8 million by 2008. To combat growing air pollution, the Ministry has cut the emission of NOx for petrol-powered cars from 0.25 g/km prior to 2002 to 0.031 g/km by 2008.
Beginning in July 2012, the country will begin the phased adoption of super ultra-low emission vehicle standards, a designation that originated in the United States. It typically means that emissions are 90 percent less than that of an equivalent ordinary full gasoline vehicle. High efficiency hybrids are examples of such cars. The impact of such cars on fuel demand and quality will likely track the same for today's hybrids.
Thus, the same technology may be employed to cut the emission of greenhouse gases and the more traditional NOx and hydrocarbon pollutants. However, this greening of South Korea's cars and trucks will not be a result of the new emissions trading scheme, noted Park.
"For the transport sector, other measures and subsidies will have an impact far more than the emissions trading system," he said.


I feel like Dylan and Everly will always be close, because they always have been. There is something special and significant and hard to describe that is between them. Being born 19 months apart means that they seem to meet so many milestones in quick succession, compared to their little sis. They really do adore each other and I know they'd back each other to the hilt no matter what.
But this doesn't mean that there isn't room for their little sister. Everly and Quinn are increasingly drawn to one another now; they both have similar (quite feisty at times) temperaments with a flair for a bit of drama, and a tendency to be loud. They both love creative play, building with Lego and Duplo, and also nurturing anything and everything in sight. And those similarities bring them together more and more. I guess we'll never know how much of this similarity will be nature or nurture for Quinn; she's watched her sister play from day dot, and Everly has waited since day dot for an opportunity to include her little sister in all her games. And I'm sure those similarities will have times when it will bring war rather than love, but at the moment its a pleasure to see their friendship bloom.
This doesn't mean Dylan is left out of the love though. Quinn adores her big brother, quite literally... she idolises him. She looks at him like he is the funniest, cleverest and most fascinating thing that ever walked the earth. And he has a protective and caring side with her that doesn't exist in the same way with the older of his two little sisters. He is always helping her, waiting for her, holding her hand, and cheering her on in all she does.
Collectively they seem to be so proud of their little gang. They are often all together concocting some mischief or another, and these cheeky grins in the photos are always evident too. They love climbing into bed together in the evening and pretending to go to sleep (something tells me that Quinn will be wanting in on the Friday/Saturday sleepovers before we know it!). They can frequently be found huddled around a book together, or sitting as close together as his humanly possible to watch a bit of television after school.
And its in those simple moments that I think the real beauty of the sibling bond lies. It's those moments that make my heart all fuzzy, and make me so proud of the gifts we gave them in one another.
Its that tangible sense of togetherness even when they say nothing. That sense that they know they belong to one another, in a special gang that is only theirs.
Oh Quinn just has the best expressions! It's a wonderful moment when the littlest is finally big enough to count as part of the unit, I remember it happening with Pip, when all of a sudden he was playing with the girls rather than next to them. From our experience it also went hand in hand with an increase in mischief!!
They are always so gorgeous and so, so happy!
Such a lovely set of Autumnal pictures. You can tell their affection and bond.
They always look so happy together - and Quinn is such a proper little girl now. Congratulations by the way - I can't wait to see your Siblings photos when they've got four children in them!


1. Plant seeds. Each seed should weigh around 1-2 ounces, and should be mature, fresh, and disease-free.
2. Plant seeds 2-inches deep in a 1-gallon pot filled with Fafard Growing Media.
3. Keep pots in a warm place. (70-75 degrees Fahrenheit). Hand-water pots every other day.
Continue to water pots every other day in 70-75 degree Fahrenheit temperature.
Germination occurs eight (8) weeks after planting.
Keep pots in a warm, dry place (70-75 degrees Fahrenheit). Hand-water pots every other day.
1. Prepare high tunnel for planting.
1. Hand-weed between rows and plants, as necessary.
2. Fertilize beginning June 1. Take a five (5) gallon bucket, put 2 pounds of 20-20-20 soluble fertilizer.
3. Add water to the top of the bucket and mix well. Use a fertilizer injector to apply fertilizer every three (3) weeks.
1. Harvest begins first week of November until the soil in the tunnel is frozen.
2. Dig out turmeric plants. Wash gently to remove all soil.
3. Trim off any stringy, white, feeder roots.
4. Remove the original seed piece to separate the turmeric "hands" (hands contain more than one turmeric plant) or "fingers" (fingers contain only one turmeric plant).


This language focus lesson is designed to point out the use of the Present Continuous Tense in Wh and Yes/No question forms. The context for the target language will be set through pre-teaching vocabulary. The meaning and the form of TL will be presented to Ss through reading a short text and speaking activities. Ss will practice and use the TL by asking and answering questions about visuals and the reading text.
Grammar: To provide the MFP of wh- and yes/no question forms of Present Continuous Tense.
Speaking: To provide fluency and accuracy of the use of Present Continuous Tense question forms.
The main context is "A Beautiful Day" in a park. - T will distribute visual no.1 in which there are different activities. - T will give students 1 minute to check the visuals. - T will elicit some verbs from Ss.
- T will show 2 pictures from Beginners' Communication Games page 97. - T will say that 2 pic.s are different from each other, and ask Ss to find differences. -T will distribute the pic.s to Ss and check the pic.s -T will ask Ss work with their pairs, find the differences by asking questions. Example: In my picture the dog is chasing a cat. Is the dog chasing the cat in your picture? No, it is swimming in the pool. The dog and the cat are swimming in the pool. - T will elicit the answers from Ss. - T will write the questions and the answers on WB with the help of Ss.
- T will distribute the hand sheets - T will ask Ss not to show their papers to their pairs - Ss will try to guess what he/she is doing / they are doing. Example: Is he/she phoning? Is he cooking / digging / reading? Is she eating / opening the door / sleeping etc.? Are they playing cards or a ball / going upstairs? - Ss will try to guess the pic.s by asking questions and this way will be using the TL.